Collaboration combines the reach, scale and reliability of SWIFT with IMDAs efforts on technology and legal frameworks to accelerate trade digitalisation SINGAPORE - Media OutReach - 5 October 2020 - SWIFT and Singapore's Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) today signed a Memorandum of Intent (MOI) to accelerate trade digitalisation globally. The MOI looks at offering SWIFT's community of more than 11,000 financial institutions and corporates in over 200 countries and territories more efficient and cost-effective cross-border paperless trade, without the need for multiple bilateral linkages and siloed systems. Moving manual processes to digitally enabled ones also creates opportunities to shorten trade processing times and open up possibilities for innovation such as new trade financing offerings to the trade community. Through this MOI, both parties will work to combine TradeTrust, an interoperability framework that connects various platforms for the exchange of digital trade documentation, with the SWIFT community. TradeTrust provides proof of authenticity of documents and offers title transfer through open-source software[1]. This functions alongside legal harmonisation to recognise these digital documents. When paired with SWIFT's ability to securely transport industry standardised electronic trade messaging, scanned hardcopy documentation and digitally signed assets, this will pave the way for the seamless exchange of electronic trade documents around the world. As an important global trade and finance hub, Singapore has been at the forefront of trade digitalisation, partnering with various international organisations, governments and industry players to boost cross-border trade. This MOI further builds on IMDA's effort to bring in new partners to join this global trade digitalisation effort. Earlier this year, IMDA signed a cooperation agreement with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and 17 multinational firms to move from existing paper-based processes to digitally enabled ones. Story continues Mr. Alain Raes, Chief Business Development Officer, SWIFT, said: "The trade ecosystem faces digital disruption and requires open standards, legal harmonisation and coming together as a community to address fragmentation, friction and risks. Our collaboration with Singapore's global TradeTrust initiative allows us to play a central role in this effort, and we look forward to working together towards a shared vision of a frictionless, dynamic, global trade ecosystem." Ms Jane Lim, Assistant Chief Executive, IMDA, said: "International trade is the lifeblood of Singapore's economy. Singapore is working with various partners internationally to develop an interoperability framework, TradeTrust, for the seamless and efficient exchange of digitalised trade documentation across different communities. We are pleased to partner with SWIFT to further develop a trusted, interoperable and global digital trade ecosystem." Related Resources: Annex A -- Quotes from participating banks Annex B -- TradeTrust Fact Sheet Annex A -- Quotes from participating banks Under the Memorandum of Intent, SWIFT and IMDA will work with a group of leading financial institutions to support the community in its trade digitalisation efforts. Views from some of these financial institutions are captured below: Sriram Muthukrishnan, Group Head of Trade Product Management, DBS Bank: "Collaboration is vital for the health and resiliency of the global trade ecosystem. We remain committed to collaborating in the development of interoperable digital trade solutions that help break down barriers for businesses of varying digital maturities to conduct trade digitally and seamlessly. DBS continues to engage in game-changing initiatives with like-minded partners such as IMDA and SWIFT to break new grounds. For instance, DBS worked with SWIFT and IMDA to conceptualise a solution to facilitate the digital transmission of trade documents, including title transfers of electronic bills of lading on the SWIFT network leveraging TradeTrust. Such efforts will not only help generate the momentum needed to effect a global shift from analogue to digital trade systems, but also build on Singapore's ambition to become a global digital trade hub, facilitating trade flows between businesses and industries across an extensive network of countries." Vinay Mendonca, Global Head Product, Propositions & Structuring, Trade and Receivables Finance, HSBC: "An interoperable industry framework coupled with the SWIFT ecosystem could accelerate recent gains that the industry has seen in digitisation through a harmonised digital flow. We are excited to work on this initiative that could scale the digitisation of trade, delivering better working capital management and efficiencies for our clients." Merlin Dowse, Global Product Manager, J.P. Morgan: "We're looking forward to collaborating with TradeTrust and SWIFT. There's still work to be done to digitise trade documentation globally but we're optimistic given the successful testing of SWIFT FileAct and integration into our trade processing system at J.P. Morgan." Michael Spiegel, Global Head of Trade, Standard Chartered Bank: "We are excited to see SWIFT and IMDA coming together to provide further boost to the digitalisation of documents in trade transactions. Standard Chartered, being a leading trade bank, has been at the forefront on usage of emerging technologies including distributed ledger, to move from paper based trade transaction to digitised transaction with more resilience, efficiency and transparency. We welcome such an effort and are delighted to join the initiative which promises to make paperless trade accessible to many more enterprises globally." Download TradeTrust Fact Sheet: http://release.media-outreach.com/i/Download/93717 [1] TradeTrust is aligned with the Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records published by the United Nations Committee on International Trade Law in 2017. About SWIFT SWIFT is a global member owned cooperative and the world's leading provider of secure financial messaging services. We provide our community with a platform for messaging and standards for communicating, and we offer products and services to facilitate access and integration, identification, analysis and regulatory compliance. Our messaging platform, products and services connect more than 11,000 banking and securities organisations, market infrastructures and corporate customers in more than 200 countries and territories. While SWIFT does not hold funds or manage accounts on behalf of customers, we enable our global community of users to communicate securely, exchanging standardised financial messages in a reliable way, thereby supporting global and local financial flows, as well as trade and commerce all around the world. As their trusted provider, we relentlessly pursue operational excellence; we support our community in addressing cyber threats; and we continually seek ways to lower costs, reduce risks and eliminate operational inefficiencies. Our products and services support our community's access and integration, business intelligence, reference data and financial crime compliance needs. SWIFT also brings the financial community together -- at global, regional and local levels -- to shape market practice, define standards and debate issues of mutual interest or concern. Headquartered in Belgium, SWIFT's international governance and oversight reinforces the neutral, global character of its cooperative structure. SWIFT's global office network ensures an active presence in all the major financial centres. About Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) leads Singapore's digital transformation with infocomm media. To do this, IMDA will develop a dynamic digital economy and a cohesive digital society, driven by an exceptional infocomm media (ICM) ecosystem -- by developing talent, strengthening business capabilities, and enhancing Singapore's ICM infrastructure. IMDA also regulates the telecommunications and media sectors to safeguard consumer interests while fostering a pro-business environment and enhances Singapore's data protection regime through the Personal Data Protection Commission. For more news and information, visit www.imda.gov.sg or follow IMDA on Facebook IMDAsg and Twitter @IMDAsg. RACINE COUNTY During the H1N1 swine flu pandemic of 2009-10, Racine County needed to distribute 10,000 vaccinations to quell the chances of an outbreak. Vaccinating Racine County against COVID-19 will be a significantly bigger task. Whenever a vaccine is ready for COVID-19, Racine County Executive Jonathan Delagrave said, its going to be 60,000 vaccines were going to need to disseminate. In a Friday interview, Delagrave said I just had a meeting with emergency operations center and (Central Racine) County Health Department. Were talking about what the manpower will be and how long that manpower will take. At this early stage, the county executive said the question at hand is simple. 60,000 vaccinations: How are we going to do that? The solution, however, isnt as easy to answer. Although Delagrave noted the situation remains fluid, he said that the county is estimating 20-30 people will be needed over the course of 7-10 days to administer that many vaccines safely and effectively. Were sharpening our pencils, Delagrave said of the early stages of vaccine-dissemination planning. On top of that, the dissemination of information once a vaccine is ready remains of paramount importance since the county will need 60,000 residents to come forward to be vaccinated. And those people will need to come from all over the county to achieve the long-sought-after herd immunity. Actually achieving herd immunity As of Sunday afternoon, there have been 5,233 confirmed cases of COVID-19 so far in Racine County, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, with 98 deaths. Racine County has a population of approximately 196,000 people. Although it varies from disease to disease how many people need immunity from an illness for herd immunity to be achieved, according to an article on herd immunity from the Mayo Clinic, with a highly infectious illness like measles, its estimated that 94% of the population must be immune to interrupt the chain of transmission. The Mayo Clinic states that there are two paths to herd immunity for COVID-19 vaccines and infection. Although some community members have said that the virus should be allowed to run rampant to achieve herd immunity, virtually every health leader nationwide has said thats a bad idea, since the health care system would then be quickly overrun. Even with social distancing protocols being encouraged and mask mandates being occasionally enforced, hospitals in central and northeastern Wisconsin are currently running out of available beds due to surges in COVID-19 patients. State health leaders have blamed those outbreaks on masks not being worn enough. Gov. Tony Evers has cast some of the blame on the Republican lawsuit and accompanying Wisconsin Supreme Court decision that killed the Safer at Home order, essentially eliminating the states legal ability to enforce restrictions meant to box in the virus. Distribution of a vaccine In September, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Department of Defense released the federal strategy for delivering the vaccine as quickly and reliably as possible as part of what the Trump administration is calling Operation Warp Speed. That strategy includes using state, tribal, territorial, and local partners to communicate public health information around the vaccine and promote vaccine confidence and uptake. Another tenet of the strategy is to get the vaccines distributed immediately after a vaccine has been transparently developed, tested and approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A private company, the multibillion-dollar Texas-based McKesson Corp., has already been contracted by the federal government to support distribution of the vaccine. McKesson also distributed the H1N1 vaccine in 2009-10. There is no timeline for when a vaccine will be ready, although CDC Director Robert Redfield stated in September that 100 million doses code be ready by January. Under HHSs plan, the federal government is procuring hundreds of millions of doses of safe and effective vaccines such that no American will be charged for either the COVID-19 vaccine or its distribution. Various plans, supported by the CARES Act and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, are under development with the objective of ensuring no one will be charged any out-of-pocket expenses for the administration of the vaccine either. The objective is to ensure no one desiring vaccination will face an economic barrier to receiving one. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Former IBM CEO Ginni Rometty says the best thing employers can do to improve their business, their workforce and their community is to stop hiring based on four-year college degrees. In fact, the company's current executive chairperson shared that 43% of IBM's open job requisitions today don't call for a traditional college diploma, she said at Fortune's Most Powerful Women Summit last week. Rometty, who has been with the company for nearly 40 years, has been vocal about the need to rethink hiring in the tech field, particularly during a time when four-year college can be cost-prohibitive, while associate's programs, vocational schools, certification courses, bootcamps and other skills-based training are available and may be more accessible and adaptable to the rapid speed of tech innovations. As she stepped into senior leadership as the company's first female CEO in 2012, Rometty said she saw the digital era "was not going to become an inclusive era, ironically. There was going to be haves and have-nots." Without equal access to tech training and opportunities, "it would leave a lot of people behind." The pandemic, which has caused the most unequal recession in modern history, has exposed and exacerbated this divide. According to reporting from the Washington Post, white-collar jobs have mostly rebounded from the spring's economic free-fall. Roughly 6 in 10 college-educated employees have been able to continue working from home during the crisis, compared with about 1 in 7 workers with just high school diplomas. Far fewer low-wage in-person jobs, which tend to be held by women and people of color, have recovered. Some demographics hit hardest by the current recession include mothers of school-age children, Black men, Black women, Hispanic men, Asian Americans, younger Americans ages 25 to 34, and people without college degrees. With the impacts of the pandemic accelerating labor market trends such as widespread automation and digitization, employer investment in workforce reskilling is even more important than ever. Rometty shared three things employers should prioritize instead of college degrees. First, "value someone's propensity to learn more than their skills," Rometty said. Focusing on someone's ability to learn, rather than what they've already learned, has "completely changed" how she looks at hiring. "Now, I want someone to be curious," she said, "and you can test that when you hire." Next, she believes companies should offer their employees an AI-driven learning system. She likens it to a "Netflix for learning" type of platform. A company can provide workers with a few starter courses in skills they need training for. Based on their performance, as well as their interests and goals as a worker, the platform would serve them with additional courses tailored to their career path with the company. Finally, Rometty said, employers must be transparent about the skills they really need from their workers and guide them to either learn them, refine them, or steer their career path in a new direction depending on their goals within the company. "The people are out there with the skills," Rometty said. "We can teach them the hard skills, but it's the soft skills they need to come in with." She views the priority as a business imperative as well as a social one: "It is actually in our hands to change society forever." Check out: We analyzed 111 rewards cards, and the best one could earn you $2,000 over 5 years Don't miss: 5 skills experts say workers should master right now In the event of an unexpected emergency man-made or natural one will need a bug out bag to, well, bug out of their current location. Stewart walks readers through packing the right supplies in the most efficient way and learning how to use them. He caters sections of the book to those bugging out with kids, seniors and pets, as well as anyone with physical disabilities. The idea was that members who joined and got a property appraisal and then lived in the homes for five years or longer could be assured they would at least get the appraised value of their houses when they sold them because the program would cut checks for shortfalls. African American city officials tried to stop the creation of the districts, saying they were an attempt to prevent integration in Chicagos predominantly white outer edges. - Future of healthcare conference in partnership with Dechert LLP goes virtual - Panellists include eminent leaders from healthcare industry and investment community LONDON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Optimum Strategic Communications (Optimum), the international strategic healthcare communications firm, will be hosting its 12th Annual Healthcare Investor Conference virtually, in partnership with Dechert LLP, on Thursday, 8 October 2020. In an unprecedented time for healthcare, this year's conference will feature leading figures from the life sciences, healthcare and investment communities, each providing, in the light of COVID-19, insights on the latest trends and developments that impact the industry. Debate and discussion will take place live, via an on-line platform providing Q&A features, and break-out rooms will be available to enable participants to network virtually. Mary Clark, Managing Director, Optimum Strategic Communications, commented on the event: "The coronavirus pandemic has impacted us all in ways that were impossible to predict just a few months ago. The spotlight is on the healthcare and life sciences sector and we are seeing an unprecedented response in communication, collaboration, speed and agility, as we unite in a common purpose to fight the pandemic. "This year's conference, now in its 12th year, provides an annual forum for healthcare investors and companies to come together to discuss and debate the current issues and trends that will impact our industry far into the future. We are absolutely delighted to have such an illustrious group of panellists and speakers. We look forward to hearing from those who are in the midst of the industry response to COVID-19 as well as those continuing to serve patients by developing new treatments across many areas of high medical need. We hope that this year, as previously, our conference will spark spirited discussion and provide a forum for industry influencers to connect virtually at least as effectively as they would in person." Agenda Welcome Mary Clark, Managing Director, Optimum Strategic Communications Robert Darwin, Partner, Dechert LLP Fireside Chat Chair: Dan Mahony, Co-head of Healthcare, Polar Capital Kieran Murphy, President & CEO, GE Healthcare 2021: Priorities for European Pharma Chair: Mike Ward, Head of Thought Leadership, Decision Resources Group, part of Clarivate Peter Stein, Chief Executive Officer, Norgine Group Philippe M Lopes-Fernandes, Executive Vice President, Chief Business Officer at Ipsen These industry leaders from medtech and pharma will be sharing their insights on how innovation is driving change in the diagnosis, development and delivery of therapies to patients, and what the priorities are for the future. Fireside Chat - Communicating to Investors Through a Crisis Chair: Mary Clark, Managing Director, Optimum Strategic Communications Oliver Maier, Head of IR, Bayer Kevin Mannix, Senior VP & Head of IR, Teva Pharmaceuticals Communicating to investors has never been more critical. Mary Clark will speak to two of the most experienced investor relations specialists from our industry who will be discussing how they handle crises and the lessons learned during these extraordinary few months. COVID-19: The Industry Response - How Are We Doing? Chair: Clive Cookson, Science Editor, Financial Times Sean Marett, Chief Business and Chief Commercial Officer, BioNTech Professor James Logan, Head of Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Kate Bingham, Chair of UK Vaccine Taskforce & Managing Partner of SV Health Investors Rajeev Venkayya, MD President Global Vaccine Business Unit, Takeda Pharmaceuticals Clive Cookson will chair this illustrious panel to discuss the most important topic at the moment - the international effort against COVID-19. The panel will discuss where we are in these efforts and what needs to be done next. How Does the Investment Landscape Look Post COVID-19? Chair: Robert Darwin, Partner, Dechert LLP Isabella Eichler, Director, Altor Equity Partners Linden Thomson, Fund Manager, AXA Investment Managers Guillaume Vignon, Senior Vice President Business Development, BeiGene Stavros Mercouris, Director, KKR Elisa Petris, Partner, Syncona Robert Darwin will discuss the investment landscape for healthcare and life sciences post-pandemic with experts from venture capital, pharma, private equity and asset management. The detailed agenda and registration details can be found at the 12th Annual Healthcare Investor Conference website, here. Audience participation is invited via the online forums and social media using the Conference hashtag OptimumConnections. If you would like to receive summaries of the panel discussions at the conference or speak with the Optimum team, please email contact@optimumcomms.com. About Optimum Strategic Communications Optimum Strategic Communications is an international healthcare communications firm which specialises in strategic investor relations, corporate and financial communications. Our senior team of healthcare specialists, based in London, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Zurich, Los Angeles and New York, are experienced and trusted advisors to some of the world's most exciting public and private companies, both large and small, across pharmaceuticals, medtech, biotech, health tech and healthcare services. Over the last 20 years we have worked with over 200 healthcare companies, advising them on financial communications and investor relations, including major corporate activity such as fundraising, IPOs, and M&A, as well as corporate reputation and crisis scenarios. We have an exceptional network of contacts across the international investment community in Europe and the US; contacts we have built and maintained over the last three decades. Our team includes ex-fund managers and analysts, as well as financial and corporate communications specialists. For more information please visit www.optimumcomms.com YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of Artsakh Masis Mayilyan sent an official letter to the Secretary General of the Council of Europe Marija Pejcinovic Buric over the act of aggression by Turkey and Azerbaijan against the Republic of Artsakh, in which terrorist organizations are being actively involved. As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of Artsakhs Foreign Ministry, the letter, in particular, points out that Azerbaijan has violated its basic obligation undertaken upon accession to the Council of Europe to reach the settlement of the Azerbaijan-Karabakh conflict exclusively by peaceful means. Minister Mayilian also informed Secretary General Buric of the grave and massive violations by Azerbaijan of its obligations related to safeguarding the right to life. The letter also emphasizes that Turkey is equally responsible for initiating and fueling this renewed military confrontation within the Council of Europe area, as well as recruiting and shipping mercenaries from the terrorist organisations in the Middle East to participate in the hostilities against the Republic of Artsakh. Masis Mayilian, in his letter, calls on the Council of Europe to employ its full capacity for putting an immediate end to this unjustifiable violence against the peaceful population of Artsakh, as well as to end gross violation of the human rights, and the ongoing war crimes being committed within the Council of Europes jurisdiction. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan Indian Army chief Gen M M Naravane and Foreign Secretary on Monday called on Myanmar's State Counsellor and discussed a wide range of "important" bilateral areas, including maintenance of security and stability in the border areas. They also met Myanmar's top General Min Aung Hlaing, the Commander in Chief of defence services, and discussed issues of bilateral importance. Gen Naravane and Shringla discussed "important bilateral issues" during their meeting with Suu Kyi, the Indian embassy said. "The two sides discussed maintenance of security and stability in their border areas and reiterated their mutual commitment not to allow their respective territories to be used for activities inimical to each other," said a press release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs. Myanmar is one of India's strategic neighbours and shares a 1,640-km-long border with a number of northeastern states including militancy-hit Nagaland and Manipur. India has been concerned over some militant groups from the North-East region taking shelter in Myanmar. The country has been assuring India that it would not allow any insurgent group to use its territory against India. In June, 2015 the Indian Army had carried out an operation in areas near the Indo-Myanmar against the NSCN (K) militants, days after the ultras had killed 18 Army men in Manipur. The two countries have significantly ramped up defence and security cooperation in the last few years including in the maritime security sphere. Shringla said Myanmar's handing over of 22 Indian insurgents has been deeply appreciated by India and sends a strong message of "deterrence to inimical elements on both sides." Gen Naravane also held talks with Vice Senior General Soe Win, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Myanmar Armed Services while Shringla met Soe Han, Permanent Secretary of Foreign Ministry. Their visit to Myanmar assumes significance as it comes in the midst of the Indian Army's bitter border standoff with the Chinese military in eastern Ladakh as well restrictions on foreign visits due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is Gen Naravane's first visit to any foreign country after he took charge as the Chief of Army Staff on December 31 last year. During their visit, India announced a grant of USD 2 million for the construction of the border haat bridge at Byanyu/Sarsichauk in Chin State that will provide increased economic connectivity between Mizoram and Myanmar. A quota of 1.5 lakh tonnes of Urad (Vigna mungo) for import from Myanmar till March 31, 2021 was also announced. "The visit provided an opportunity to review the sustained progress in bilateral relations which have been marked in recent years by regular high-level visits and interactions, the release said. "Both sides agreed to further strengthen their partnership in connectivity projects, capacity building, power and energy, deepen economic and trade ties, further facilitate people to people and cultural exchanges, and broad-base their defence exchanges across all the three services," it added. Myanmar appreciated India's decision to provide debt service relief under the G-20 Debt Service Suspension Initiative. Both sides agreed to work towards operationalising the Sittwe Port by the first quarter of next year and that the tendering process for 69 bridges proposed under the ambitious India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway will begin soon. Sittwe Port is part of the Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project which is being viewed as India's gateway to Southeast Asia. The port will connect India's landlocked northeastern region with the Bay of Bengal through Mizoram. They exchanged views on an early initiation of work on fresh initiatives such as the upgradation of Yamethin Women's Police Academy, Basic Technical Training School and measures to provide long term sustainability to projects such as the Myanmar Institute of Information Technology. Both sides noted the considerable progress made under the Rakhine State Development Programme and proposed finalising projects under Phase-III of the Programme, including setting up of a skills training centre. The two sides signed an agreement on the upgrading of agricultural mechanisation. Shringla conveyed India's support for ensuring safe, sustainable and speedy return of displaced persons to the Rakhine State. The two sides discussed plans to install a bust of Lokmanya Tilak in Mandalay to commemorate his 100th death anniversary as it was during his incarceration in Mandalay jail that he wrote Gita Rahasya. Shringla assured India's continued support to Myanmar in its democratic transition. In the last few years, both countries have made commendable strides in bilateral ties and explored new avenues of cooperation including fresh investments in oil and gas and power, infrastructure and pharmaceuticals. The two sides have been in discussion to establish a High Capacity High Voltage Grid Interconnection between the Indian power grid and the Myanmar grid. "Discussions on the low voltage radial interconnections between North-Eastern states and Myanmar have also progressed. The cooperation in the maritime domain and disaster management has been enhanced," it said. It said initiatives like the successful implementation of the Land Border Crossing Agreement and ongoing discussions at the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Motor Vehicles Agreement, have been moving forward. The Centre of Excellence in Software Development and Training in Myitkyina, was virtually inaugurated. (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.) MONTREAL - Heroux-Devtek Inc. says it has won a multi-year contract with the Boeing Company to manufacture new actuation components for several types of commercial aircraft. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A Heroux Devtek logo is shown at the company's annual general meeting in Montreal, Thursday, August 2, 2012. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes MONTREAL - Heroux-Devtek Inc. says it has won a multi-year contract with the Boeing Company to manufacture new actuation components for several types of commercial aircraft. The contract win by the company's CESA subsidiary in Spain includes the supply of production requirements and spare parts for the 787, 777, 777X, 767, and 747. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Financial terms of the agreement were not immediately available. The company says it is the largest contract for Heroux-Devtek Spain. Heroux-Devtek specializes in the design, development, manufacture and repair of aircraft landing gear and other components. Shares in the company were up 10 cents at $9.65 in early trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. Companies in this story: (TSX:HRX) Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 12:51:36|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- No new locally transmitted confirmed, asymptomatic, or suspected cases of COVID-19 were reported in Beijing on Sunday, the municipal health commission said Monday. The capital also reported no new imported cases on Sunday, according to the commission. Beijing reported one imported confirmed COVID-19 case on Sept. 24, who was the first imported asymptomatic case reported on Sept. 19 after the city resumed direct international passenger flights on Sept. 3. Enditem The scientific case for the range of vaccines recommended by public health officials in the U.S. remains as solid as ever. But anti-vaccine propaganda has found its way into many reaches of American life. As part of the scoping phase of the WCO Anti-Corruption and Integrity Promotion (A-CIP) Programme, the Customs of Niger organized on 22-23 September 2020, in Niamey, an innovative seminar which brought together more than 40 participants, internal contributors (directors, heads of departments, Customs officers) and external (private sector representatives, economic operators, institutional partners). Due to the Covid-19 the constraints, the seminar organizers, with the support of the A-CIP Programme, used remote working tools and methods both to prepare and facilitate the meetings: strategic meeting by videoconference between the A-CIP team and the Director General of Customs; design and provision of a remote working kit and tools; organization of working sessions; remote intervention of A-CIP experts in plenary sessions during the two days of the seminar. During his speech, Colonel Harouna Habdallah, Director General of Customs of Niger, mobilized internal and external contributors around the three objectives of the meeting: inform on the priorities of the Customs of Niger in the fight against corruption and integrity promotion; raise awareness on objectives of the A-CIP Programme; and allow participants to assess the situation and reflect on priority actions to be deepened and/or implemented in link with the strategy of the administration and the key factors of the WCO Revised Arusha Declaration. In conclusion, the Director General declared that "corruption in Customs does not happen in a vacuum" and that "it is most often a much larger societal problem involving multiple stakeholders. First step of the scoping phase, in addition to collecting high-quality contributions, the success of the seminar demonstrated that it is possible, through the commitment and adaptation of all actors, to develop effective cooperation and development actions combining remote and face-to-face approaches. For more information about the WCO A-CIP Programme, please visit the WCO A-CIP Programme page, or contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org. A judge has dismissed the criminal case against a chemical manufacturer and one of its former employees over a fire at its plant near Houston during Hurricane Harvey, saying prosecutors failed to present sufficient evidence to support the charges. A day after she dismissed the charge against the CEO of Arkema Inc., Judge Belinda Hill tossed the remaining charges against the Pennsylvania-based company and former plant manager Leslie Comardelle right before jurors were due to hear closing arguments in the trial. Arkema, a subsidiary of a French chemical manufacturer, and Comardelle each faced a charge of reckless emission of an air contaminant over the ignition of organic peroxides at the companys plant in Crosby, northeast of Houston, during the 2017 storm. The case proved problematic for prosecutors, as Hill dismissed three other charges earlier in the trial, which resumed last week after a six-month delay due to the coronavirus pandemic. Hill had also sanctioned prosecutors over withholding evidence in the case. Legal experts predicted that prosecutors would have a difficult time proving the actions by Arkema and its employees were willful and reckless. If convicted, Arkema could have faced up to a $1 million fine and Comardelle could have been sentenced to up to five years in prison. At a news conference later Thursday, Rusty Hardin, one of Arkemas attorneys, said what happened at the plant was a natural disaster and never a crime. Hardin said defense attorneys spoke with jurors after the trial ended and were told the jury would not have convicted in the case. Hardin and other defense attorneys accused prosecutors of not thoroughly investigating the case, bringing charges that were politically motivated and withholding information that would have benefitted the defense. This company, its employees and everyone associated with it believes strongly in a safe and good environment. They did everything youre supposed to do here, Hardin said. Comardelle told reporters that he and his team did all they could to protect the community, but Harvey was an unprecedented disaster and theres nothing else we could have done to prepare for it. Janet Smith, an Arkema spokeswoman, said the trial sought to criminalize the impact of a natural disaster that Harris County itself was not prepared for. Prosecutors were disappointed and frustrated jurors didnt get to make a decision in the case, said Dane Schiller, a spokesman for the Harris County District Attorneys Office. Todays ruling by a judge doesnt change the fact that dangerous chemicals on Arkema property ignited and were belched in a cloud of toxic smoke over the surrounding communities, and a first responder there protecting people is now on a lung-transplant list, Schiller said. Before Hills ruling, prosecutors argued that Arkema and Comardelle were negligent for failing prepare the plant by moving the organic peroxides ahead of predicted catastrophic flooding from Harvey. The storm dumped nearly 50 inches of rain in parts of the Houston area and caused 36 deaths locally. The power systems at the Arkema plant were overwhelmed by flooding, and without power to keep the organic peroxides made at the facility cold, the compounds caught fire and exploded. The fire forced the evacuation of more than 200 residents and sent 21 people, including first responders, to the hospital. Arkema has argued that the fire was caused by an act of God, the hurricane, and could not have been prevented. The end of the trial came a day after Hill made a similar ruling to end the case against Arkema CEO Richard Rowe, who faced the same charge as Comardelle. Earlier this month, Hill had dismissed assault charges Arkema and another employee had faced related to injuries two deputies suffered during the fire. The U.S Chemical Safety Board said Arkema worked to keep equipment that stabilized its organic peroxides, used to make such things as plastic resins, from losing power. But Arkema didnt consider flooding of its safety systems a credible risk, even though the plant was inside a flood zone. Due to the pandemic, the trial was being held in a courtroom that has been set up at NRG Arena, which usually hosts concerts and special events. The public was allowed to watch the trial through a livestream from a courtroom in the downtown criminal courthouse. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Texas Legislation Flood Abuse Molestation Chemicals A 22-year-old Nepalese woman travelled all the way from Lucknow to file a rape case in Maharashtra against a man, police said on Monday. Since the man warned her against approaching police in connection with the alleged offence that took place in the Uttar Pradesh capital, the woman fled from there and somehow managed to reach Nagpur, located over 800 km from Lucknow. She came to a friend who helped her in lodging a zero FIR, they said. A zero First Information Report (FIR) can be filed in any police station and it can be later transferred to the appropriate police station having competent jurisdiction. As per the woman's complaint, she came to India from Nepal in 2018 for a job. Since March this year, she was staying with a woman friend in the latter's rented flat on Faizabad Road in Lucknow, senior police inspector Wazeer Sheikh, from Nagpur's Koradi police station, told PTI. The friend introduced the victim to the accused, Pravin Rajpal Yadav, a Lucknow native who worked as a software engineer in Dubai, on a video call. According to the victim, she had kept Rs 1.5 lakh with her friend and when she asked for it, the latter did not return the money and started beating and harassing her. The victim complained about this to Yadav, who then booked a room for the victim at a hotel in Lucknow and asked her to shift there, the official said. After a couple of days, the accused also came to Lucknow from Dubai. He met the victim at the hotel, where he allegedly drugged her and raped her, the official said. The accused also shot some objectionable photographs and videos of the victim. He also took her to a friend's place in Lucknow where he allegedly again gave her drugs and raped her, the official said. The accused later uploaded the victim's photos on her social media accounts and threatened to make them viral if she did not listen to him or approached police, the official said. The woman somehow managed to escape from Lucknow and came to a Nepalese friend in Nagpur on September 30. They went to Koradi police station here and lodged a complaint against Yadav and the victim's woman friend from Lucknow, the official said. Based on the complaint, the police on Saturday lodged a zero FIR against the accused under Indian Penal Code Sections 376 (rape), 354 (molestation), 392 (robbery), 342 (wrongful confinement), 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating), he said. The victim along with a police team, the case papers and a cover letter of the Nagpur DCP left for Lucknow on Sunday night for registration of the case with Chinhat police in Lucknow, the official said. 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John Okechukwu, the saddened father, told PREMIUM TIMES how the incident claimed their first child and all her future hopes shattered. I saw the corpse of my daughter, they stripped her, blood everywhere, Mr Okechukwu said with heavy eyes. PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported how the young girl was raped to death at No 4, Olanrewaju Street, Ejigbo Lagos by yet-to-be-identified men. She was allegedly raped by four men. Mr Okechukwu, an indigene of Abia State and a businessman in Lagos, narrated the incident to PREMIUM TIMES. When I got home on that Wednesday, my wife told me that she sent Favour on an errand and she is yet to return. I got home by 6 pm and she had sent her on an errand since 3 pm. I was really worried, the father said. Mr Okechukwu said he immediately instructed his wife to check her at a traders shop down the street and her friends houses in the neighbourhood, but none of them saw her. Some of the parents of her classmates joined us in searching for her, and by past 8 pm, we returned to this place. I didnt know what to do, my wife told me that we should hope on God maybe she would come back home and any hand holding her will release her. But for me, I was not satisfied. I gave her the key and turned back to continue to search for her. It was like somebody or a force was just carrying me to just be going to that direction, I was just going, the worried father said. Without any knowledge of where he was going or how he would see his missing daughter, Mr Okechukwu said he trekked minutes away from the street they live before he saw a neighbor who told him a bad incident happened at streets away. Getting to that junction, I met someone that I know and is living on this street. He asked where I was going and I explained that I was looking for my daughter. The guy shouted that something just happened at Olanrewaju street that made everybody start packing before the police would come, he said. Mr Okechukwu said the neighbour told him that a young girl was raped to death and he decided to follow him to the street. He showed me the house but when we got there, he said he couldnt enter. I summoned courage and entered because the place was dark. He added that he saw three occupants of the house discussing and he told them he was looking for his daughter and they pointed the room where the corpse of a young girl was lying. I saw the corpse, it was my daughter. They have stripped her, blood everywhere and she has died already, I started shouting like a mad person before a man from the compound ran after me and offered to join me to the police station because he has some information about it, he said. Encounter with the Police Mr Okechukwu said on getting to the Ejigbo Police Division, some members of the house where the incident occurred were already there and speaking to an officer in Yoruba. We got in and they refused us when they heard that this was the man they raped his daughter. Thank God that my brother knows the DPO very well, he called her and introduced himself and she ordered us to come in, the man said. The enraged father said he narrated what happened to the police and corroborated with what the house occupant who followed him to the station said. The police invited the young man and others and the owner of the room where my daughter was found dead was lying that he doesnt know anything about it and that they have been breaking into his room. The young man that followed us later confronted him and told him to tell the truth. He later told the police that he was not among the rapists but he knows them. The DPO asked for their names and he mentioned four names, he narrated. Alleged Rapists at large The perpetrators of the dastardly act against the 11-year-old girl are at large, while the owner of the room her body was found and a nurse who was an accomplice in the case are in detention, PREMIUM TIMES learnt. The nurse, whose identity is unknown, was called by the rapists to help save the life of the young girl when they noticed she was about to die. The police are ,however, working around the clock to get the culprits arrested, the father said. He added that the Inspector of Police in charge of the case and the Divisional Police Officer have been supportive on getting the offenders. Advertisements A landlord at Olanrewaju street, who preferred not to be named, said there have been similar rape cases and other unrests in the neighbourhood due to the operations of hoodlums that assemble around. I have heard of one or two rape cases by the same set of hoodlums and criminals. But on a general note, we experience house burgling, hoodlums harassing people in the early hours of the day or late hours of the night. I understand that when they came to pick the corpse, there were some fingerprints and since investigation is on, the police will get to the bottom of this. We have been made to understand that the culprits have absconded, he said. The landlord told PREMIUM TIMES that most of the time, the ugly incidents recorded in the neighbourhood happen around Olanrewaju street. That place particularly, those buildings under the high tension thats their advantage point, that is where they hang out to do all kinds of things. During the day they are there smoking weed and others, he said. He said the residents associations are forming synergy with the police and local government to bring an end to the menace. Nigerians have called for stiffer punishments for rape cases in Nigeria, with a rise in rape cases being recorded in many parts of the country. The Nigerian Senate and States of House of Assemblies have been urged to enforce the Child Rights Act and enforce stricter punishments for rape offenders. Lawmakers in Kaduna in September approved surgical castration as punishment for people convicted of raping children below age 14. BRUSSELS: Delphine Boel has been acknowledged as Belgian Princess Delphine of Saxe-Coburg, after a two-decade royal paternity scandal. Still, she said on Monday shed still rather be considered an artist than a royal. Last week, a Belgian court ruled in her favor and officially recognized her as the daughter of former King Albert II, something the aging monarch had fought tooth and nail to avoid ever since the paternity allegations became public. Princess Delphine said going to court was all about getting family recognition and the love of a father who had always coldshouldered her. For me to go to court, especially for that, to be recognized by my own blood, my own father, felt so unnatural," she told reporters on Monday. It is (a) sort of unnatural life I was living that was most painful, the 52-year-old said during an emotional press conference. The former king, whose son Philippe is the reigning monarch, could still make an ultimate legal appeal at the Court of Cassation, but Princess Delphine said the case was unlikely to go that far. I think it is finished now." King Albert decided in January to no longer fight a claim that he is Boels father, after he finally agreed to have a DNA test and received the results. Rumors about Albert and Boels mother, the aristocratic wife of a well-heeled industrialist, had been around for years. But the news that the king might have had a child with her broke into the open when a biography of Alberts wife, Queen Paola, was published in 1999. Boel bears a striking resemblance to certain members of the royal family, including Albert II. During her adult life she became a sculptor and her works are known for their colorful, quirky, and sometimes provocative style. She said her art will continue to define her. I am still going to be Delphine. I am not going to be hanging out in the streets saying, please call me princess," she said, adding that charity work could be an exception. She doesnt know whether the legal victory will turn into warm family bonds anytime soon. If you ask me whether I am expecting anything from the Royal family, as I said, I am not expecting anything. I am just going to carry on with my work," she said. And however, if suddenly they show a sign of life, I would never (turn) my back to them. Thats for sure. Her two children, Josephine and Oscar, will also be allowed to carry royal titles. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor A 56-year-old man died on Friday night while drinking alcohol at a Katoloni area nightclub in Machakos Town, Kenya The man, who was in the company of his friends, is said to have fallen off his chair and died a few minutes to 10pm. Attempts by the middle-aged mans friends to take him to hospital were futile as he died before reaching a nearby health facility. Mbilini Sub-Location Assistant Chief Anthony Muasa told K24 Digital that the man had not eaten anything before taking to the bottle. Maybe the alcohol concentration in his body led to his collapsing and eventual death, said Muasa. The body of the reveller was taken to Machakos Level 5 Hospital morgue. Police say a postmortem will be conducted on the deceased to ascertain his cause of death. Follow Us on Facebook @LadunLiadi; Instagram @LadunLiadi; Twitter @LadunLiadi; Youtube @LadunLiadiTV for updates Ireland has now moved to Level 5 of the Living with Covid-19 plan, the highest level of restrictions in an attempt to curb the spread of Covid-19. Level 5 sees the country return to a state of lockdown similar to that seen in March and is seen as a chance to ensure that there are no major restrictions over Christmas. The move to Level 5 will last six weeks. Gardai have been given new powers to police house parties and can now hand out fines. People may meet with one other household outdoors for example in a park but not in a house or in a garden. Read on to see the further changes made under these new regulations. Retail: Only essential retail will be open. Only essential retail will be open. Schools and creches: To remain open. To remain open. Household visits: The ban on household visits will continue. No visitors will be allowed to any other home. The ban on household visits will continue. No visitors will be allowed to any other home. Work: Work from home unless not possible or working in health, retail and social services Work from home unless not possible or working in health, retail and social services PUP: Restored to 350 for those previously on more than 400. EWSS increased to have five bands up to a max of 350 per employee per week Restored to 350 for those previously on more than 400. EWSS increased to have five bands up to a max of 350 per employee per week Sports: Elite sport to go ahead - Intercounty GAA, League of Ireland, Horseracing. Children can train in pods of 15 Elite sport to go ahead - Intercounty GAA, League of Ireland, Horseracing. Children can train in pods of 15 Travel: No travel beyond 5km from home unless for essential, with fines for those who breach the restrictions No travel beyond 5km from home unless for essential, with fines for those who breach the restrictions Bubbles: Those living alone, parenting alone or vulnerable can have close contact with one other nominated household. Those living alone, parenting alone or vulnerable can have close contact with one other nominated household. Weddings and Funerals: Weddings can have 25 guests and funerals can have 25 mourners. Weddings can have 25 guests and funerals can have 25 mourners. Bars and restaurants: Takeaway service only - wet pubs closed. Takeaway service only - wet pubs closed. Religious services: Services to be held online. Services to be held online. Salons, gyms, museums and galleries: All closed. All closed. Construction and manufacturing: Remain open as deemed essential. Read More There is hope, insists Taoiseach as country prepares for move to level 5 Social and family gatherings In your home or garden: Own household only - no visitors. Other settings outside your home or garden: No social or family gatherings should take place in other settings. Bars, cafes and restaurants (including hotel restaurants and bars) Take away food or delivery only. Wet pubs: Take away or delivery only. Nightclubs, discos, casinos: All remain closed. Weddings Up to 25 guests can attend a wedding ceremony and reception. Funerals Up to 25 mourners can attend. Religious services Services will be held online. Places of worship remain open for private prayer. Work Work from home unless it is for working in health, social care or other essential service and cannot be done from home. Domestic travel restrictions Stay at home. Exercise within 5 kilometres of home. Schools, creches and higher and adult education Open with protective measures in place. Organised indoor gatherings No organised indoor gatherings should take place. Organised outdoor gatherings No organised outdoor gatherings should take place. 40068989[/reamore] Exercise and sporting events Training: Individual training only. No exercise or dance classes. Matches and events: No matches or events to take place. Exceptions made for professional elite sport and inter-county GAA. Greyhound and horse racing continues behind closed doors. Gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools: Gyms/leisure centres/swimming pools closed. Non-contact training for school-aged children in pods of 15 can continue outdoors. Museums, galleries and other cultural attractions All venues closed. Online services are available. Hotels and accommodation Open only for those with essential non-social and non-tourist purposes. Retail and services (for example hairdressers, beauticians, barbers) Face coverings must be worn. Essential retail only. All other retail and personal services closed. Outdoor playgrounds, play areas and parks Open with protective measures in place. Transport Face coverings must be worn on public transport. People should walk or cycle where possible. Public transport capacity will be restricted to 25%. Avoid public transport - essential workers and essential purposes only. Over 70 and medically vulnerable individuals Those aged over 70 years and over and the medically vulnerable should exercise judgement regarding the extent to which they engage with others and in activities outside home. Specific guidance will be issued. Visiting long-term residential care facilities (nursing and care homes) Suspended, aside from critical and compassionate circumstances A 10-year-old Rexford pianist has placed first in a national virtual Military Kids Have Talent Contest hosted by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. Addyson Tabankin, daughter of New York Army National Guard Lt. Col. Shawn Tabankin, placed first in the 10-11 age group after two weeks of national public voting. Her winning video shows Addyson performing John Williams Star Wars Theme. After two weeks of voting by the American public, Tabankin was announced as a winner in the Military Kids Have Talent grand finale, hosted by actor Jocko Sims ("Jarhead," "The Last Ship," "New Amsterdam"). Addyson is like her mom, Jennifer, who learned to play the piano at age 8, although Addyson began playing when she was even younger, at age 5. The student at Tesago Elementary School in Clifton Park still takes piano lessons and practices, usually focusing on works from musicals and movie themes. The winners performed as a part of an hour-long segment that premiered on the Elizabeth Dole Foundations Facebook page. The national vote determined winners from 36 finalists, all children and survivors of military service members and veterans. We created this virtual opportunity because COVID-19 caused many celebrations and milestones to be canceled for military kids and we are delighted by the enthusiastic nationwide response and participation, said Steve Schwab, CEO of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. We congratulate our five talented winners and thank Americans from coast to coast who supported the contestants with their votes. Other winners include: Wyatt, Shane, Luke and Heidi Winchester, Fayetteville, N.C., 6 and under winners, dance; Kormeri Sohui Jones, Enterprise, Ala., 7-9 division winner, piano; Raegan Lawson, Greenwood, Ind., 12-14 winner, singing; and Cameron Davis, Jacksonville, N.C., 15-18 winner, singing. The Elizabeth Dole Foundation empowers, supports, and honors our nations 5.5 million military caregivers the spouses, parents, family members, and friends who care for Americas wounded, ill, or injured service members and veterans at home. Founded by Sen. Elizabeth Dole in 2012, the foundation adopts a comprehensive approach in its support and advocacy, working with leaders in the public, private, nonprofit, and faith communities to recognize military caregivers service and promote their well-being. The foundations Hidden Heroes campaign brings vital attention to the untold stories of military caregivers and provides a network for military caregivers to connect with their peers and access carefully vetted resources. Visit www.hiddenheroes.org for more information. Nominate your favorite people and places now Its the 25th anniversary of our Best of the Capital Region readers survey. Nominate your favorite people, places and businesses between Jan. 21 and Feb. 4. Addyson's dad, Shawn Tabankin, a veteran of multiple deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan wars, is now on duty in Kuwait with the 42nd Infantry Division. He enlisted in the Army in 1997 as a private first class in the 82nd Airborne Division. He received his commission as an Infantry Officer in 2002 through the Army Reserve Officers Training Corps. He joined the New York Army National Guard in order to attend New York Law School. In 2003, Tabankin took a voluntary leave of absence from law school to deploy to Iraq as a platoon leader with Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry. As a platoon leader, Tabankin conducted combat operations for 11 months, including participation in the October 2004 Battle of Samarra a four-day, house-to-house fight to clear the city of insurgent forces. Upon return, Tabankin completed law school and began practice as an attorney. As a guardsman, he completed assignments as the executive officer for Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment, and commander of Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 69th Infantry Regiment. In 2012, Tabankin took a second rifle command with Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment to deploy with the 27th Brigade to Western Afghanistan. Tabankin became a full-time active duty member of the New York Army National Guard in 2012. Since then, he served as the force integration officer. Tabankin transferred to the 42nd Infantry Division and currently serves as the chief of plans. He has earned two Bronze Star Medals, a Purple Heart, a Valorous Unit Award, a Meritorious Unit Award, a Combat Infantrymans Badge, a Parachutist Badge, and an Air Assault Badge. News of your troops and units can be sent to Duty Calls, Terry Brown, Times Union, Box 15000, Albany, NY 12212 or brownt@timesunion.com. DENTON, Texas A Texas man who was seen on video punching another man as they argued over President Donald Trump has turned himself in after police obtained a warrant for assault, authorities said. Jason Lata, 44, was booked in the Denton City Jail late Saturday and released a few hours later after posting bond, the Denton Record-Chronicle reported. The scuffle earlier Saturday outside of a convenience store was captured on video, which showed a man in a hat yelling profanities at another man and screaming Turn it off! as an anti-Trump rap song by YG appeared to be playing in the background. The suspect, identified by police as Lata, was standing with other men who were wearing Trump T-shirts. Hes seen on video punching the victim in the face. Police said the victim suffered a cut below the eyebrow and a broken tooth. It wasnt clear whether Lata had an attorney who could speak on his behalf. (Natural News) Prince Charles recently spoke at the United Nations Summit on Biodiversity and urged all human beings to start taking climate change seriously. Prince Charles called for a military-style campaign to address this most grave and urgent challenge. The United Nations does have its own army, consisting of peacekeeping soldiers from all the member countries. Will the military response to climate change include climate lock downs, with UN troops patrolling the streets? What does a military response to climate change look like? Will populations around the world be told to go all in to combat climate change, that we can defeat global warming together as long as we relinquish our individual liberties, surrender our property rights and do as we are told? The millions of people who do not submit to the climate change oligarchy and its cult-like following could be deemed enemies of the state locked down, isolated, fined and forced to obey the government in much the same way that healthy people are being locked down, isolated, fined and arrested if they do not comply with the medical edicts currently being wrought upon them. After all, combating climate change by restricting human freedom is for our safety the same tactic that was used to control people during the covid-19 crisis. Prince Charles calls for Marshall-like plan to combat global warming, taking billions of dollars from Americans Prince Charles proclaimed, At this late stage, I can see no other way forward, except to call for a Marshall-like plan for nature, people, and planet. Charles is referring to the U.S. Marshall plan of 1948 that transferred over $12 billion from American taxpayers to Western European economies after the end of World War II. This amount is equivalent to the value of over $129 billion today. In other words, Prince Charles wants to use weather events around the world as a selling point to project that the world is going to end. His end-of-the-world climate change sales pitch would be used to rob American taxpayers indefinitely, until the climate change cult declares that the Earth is healed and free from weather events, warm weather, melting ice and an ever-changing climate. Its all part of the UNs sustainability goals that take away property rights from Americans, taking control and mass engineering a global economy. In their grandeur of illusion, the climate change cult believes that an all-powerful world government could create a perfect, heavenly climate, where fires, tornadoes and hurricanes are nonexistent; where temperatures stay on a projected, stable course. Its all a big ruse to take away human rights and turn the world into a centrally-planned plantation of resource and wealth redistribution, where people are told how to live, how to think, how to behave. Having been at this now, for well over 40 years I have long observed that people tend not to act until there is a real crisis. Ladies and gentlemen, that crisis has been with us for far too many years, the cry denigrated and denied, proclaimed Prince Charles. (Related: Project SCoPEx: Bill Gates pursuing a plan to carry out planetary GENOCIDE under the guise of halting climate change.) He claimed human activity is the driving force of global warming, that our abusive nature will lead to an ultimate reckoning. With the planetary emergency so critical, with the permafrost melting in Siberia for instance, youll see dire effects of global warming. And with the Pantanal in Brazil being consumed by unprecedented number of fires, we can no longer go on like this, as if there was no tomorrow, and no ultimate reckoning for our abusive nature. His solution is simple: Siphon money from the people and create an all-powerful army to carry out and enforce the global restructuring of the economy. Without a doubt, we must now put ourselves on a war like footing, approaching our action from the perspective of a military style campaign. That way, working together, we can combat this most grave and urgent challenge. To keep up with the latest on global warming, visit ClimateScienceNews.com. Sources include: Twitter.com Britannica.com PostandCourier.com NaturalNews.com Local businessman, John Kiernan, of Kiernan Structural Steel, has written a strongly-worded letter to local politicians and members of Oireachtas, detailing the devastating impact that a Level 5 lockdown will have on the economy. The letter, entitled 'Future Lockdown - Economic Suicide', was shared with the Longford Leader this morning and pleaded with local TDs to consider the effect that following NPHET advice will have on the economy. Employing 200 people, mainly based in Longford, Kiernan Structural Steel is at risk of losing a number of major projects overseas, should Ireland once again go into lockdown. "Should Ireland go into lockdown in coming weeks our company will automatically be struck off from these UK projects as no client in their right mind could take that risk of supply to their project," said Mr Kiernan. "Every time the country is locked down it sends shock waves of economic uncertainty around the world. If you were a multi-national willing to invest in Ireland would you do so not knowing whether the country was going to be open or not?" Yesterday, NPHET recommended that the entire country go into Level 5 lockdown. Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan is due to meet with government leaders this morning to discuss this advice. The full letter written by Mr Kiernan can be read below. "I write to you this morning in utter dismay at what NPHET is proposing in locking down the country again. "For those of you that do not know, Kiernan Structural Steel currently employ over 200 people based outside Longford Town. The majority of our employees live in the local area. "Last week we secured a major award from the British Steel Construction Associations SSDA (Structural Steel design Awards) for the roof on the Curragh Racecourse. "The Curragh project beat off competition from Tottenham Hotspurs new stadium. This is great publicity for our company across Ireland and the UK. "We are very close to landing two major projects in the UK. Should we secure one of these projects, it keep our factory in Longford in work for up to six months in 2021. "On the news we are very close on both of these projects we have also ordered a new machine costing 2.5 million which is due for delivery in mid-January. "Should Ireland go into lockdown in coming weeks our company will automatically be struck off from these UK projects as no client in their right mind could take that risk of supply to their project. "Who is then going to keep our 200 employees in employment or pay for this expensive machine then? Irish construction is quite busy currently but 2021 looks quiet & there are no major construction projects on the horizon compared with the last number of years. We are also pricing work in Amsterdam, Poland and Sweden it will be a similar fate on these projects also I would imagine. "The Irish governments agency Enterprise Ireland is doing a great job promoting Irish jobs through export. How can Irish companies export product if the Irish Government is keeping them closed? "Every time the country is locked down it sends shock waves of economic uncertainty around the world. If you were a multi-national willing to invest in Ireland would you do so not knowing whether the country was going to be open or not? "Do they and you as our elected representatives, not realise what they are doing to this country both economically, but more importantly socially? "It was reported on Saturday last, 10 deaths, when in fact it was two deaths from Coronavirus. The eight other deaths were prior to September. This is complete manipulation of data and causing untold anxiety to our people especially the elderly and infirm. If this was the private sector, people would be fired. "What concerns me the most is that NPHET are unelected. A few senior doctors have spoken out against what NPHET are doing and subsequently been forced to resign this is not democracy! There has only been one side to this story. All debate is being stifled. "What is more worrying, only a handful of our politicians are questioning what NPHET are doing. I encourage you all to review the facts closely and do your own research before it is too late for our country. "In the past two weeks, I have driven through Longford, Mullingar and Granard towns and there are a lot of for sale/to let signs everywhere Longford and Granard towns were already struggling economically, mainly due to the lack of jobs and and letting gangs and drug dealers run amok in the streets. "We are based in rural Killoe, outside Longford town. In a 15-mile radius I can count seven pubs that are not re-opening. Pubs are not the be all but they do perform a hugely important social function, particularly for older men, especially bachelors maintaining their mental health. "Unless you start standing up, asking hard factual questions, our country will be in complete ruin. Our debt after the 2008 bank guarantee has our country and our people completely crippled. This further proposed lockdown will just be the death nail of Ireland - particularly rural Ireland. "The question will be then, who will fund the country if most of the private businesses are gone out of business? Who will then fund the public sector the wages for the health service personnel, civil servants, teachers, Gardai, army and even TDs? "Are we as a state to continually borrow and add to our national debt for eternity? The economics of this do not work. "Our government decisions today are going to affect generations to come for the next hundred years. Please start asking hard questions and stand up and be counted." Do you ever wonder who lived in your home millions of years ago? The kids returning from Jurassic Park screening must have wondered who their dino neighbours could be. Now, its possible to know. The Dinosaur Database has created Ancient Earth globe which is an interactive map. This map can teach about the dinosaurs that lived in a particular location in two ways. The first option is to search for available fossil records in a users hometown or they can search the map globally if they are looking for any specific dino-species. The map features a 3-D Earth with countless stars in the background; mimicking the earth as seen in space. The interaction is very user-friendly. You can simply type in the name of your city in the search field situated at the top left of the screen. Just like Google, a list of nearby fossils will appear on the screen, just below the search bar. However, if no fossils have been discovered so far, the result will simply showcase what the environment would have been, for example, 20 million years ago. In case prominent fossils have been uncovered, for example, near New York City, youll get Grallator, Pteranodon, and Dryptosaurus in the results. These are all prominent fossils discovered by palaeontologists over the years. Each dino-species name is a hyperlink which will then take you to the Dinosaur Database website. The page dedicated to each species will describe interesting facts and images to explore, as well as a direct link to view where the dinosaur lived on the Ancient Earth globe. The software was created by Ian Webster, who is a palaeontologist as well as a computer scientist. But discovering dino-details isnt the only use for this cool application. You can also use it to trace the tectonic shifts of the land under your feet over a course of millennia. While the left-side search bar can be used input location, there is a drop-down menu on the top-right side to filter the results. It ranges from first green algae to dinosaur extinction. You can see the same location in various time-periods to see how the Earth, and your home, has evolved and changed since life began. The operationalisation of Sittwe port by 2021 - to boost the connectivity for the northeastern states, joint production of a Covid-19 vaccine and development projects for Rakhine state - figured in a meeting on Monday between a high-level Indian delegation and Myanmars state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and Indian Army chief General MM Naravane concluded a two-day visit to Myanmar on Monday with the focus on taking forward bilateral ties in areas ranging from economic cooperation to security. This was the first time an Indian delegation to Myanmar included both officials. Suu Kyi received a consignment of 3,000 vials of drug Remdesivir from the Indian side for treating Covid-19 patients. India announced a quota for importing 150,000 tonnes of urad dal from Myanmar till March 2021, and a grant of $2 million for building a bridge at Byanyu-Sarsichauk in Chin state to ramp up economic connectivity between Mizoram and Myanmar, people familiar with developments said on condition of anonymity. During their meeting with Suu Kyi at the foreign ministry in Naypyitaw, Shringla and Naravane discussed the possibility of joint production of Covid-19 vaccine, operationalisation of the Sittwe port in the early part of 2021 and conducting vocational training programmes for youth in Rakhine state, Myanmars foreign ministry said in a Facebook post. The two sides discussed ways to further advance bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, connectivity, transport, energy, development projects, capacity building and people to people linkages, the foreign ministry said. The Indian side proposed the construction of a petroleum refinery in Thanlyn area near Yangon with an investment of around $6 billion, the people cited above said. This will ensure energy security and the project would be a win-win arrangement for both countries, said a person who declined to be named. The Indian delegation also met the commander-in-chief of Myanmars defence forces, senior General Min Aung Hlaing in Naypyitaw, and discussed issues of bilateral importance. Security and defence cooperation between the two sides is quite robust. Both countries are committed to not allowing the use of their territories against the security interests of the other. In this context, the handing over of 22 cadres of India insurgent groups by Myanmar was appreciated, said the person cited above. During the visit, the project agreement was signed between Myanmars ministry of agriculture, livestock and irrigation and the Indian embassy for upgrading an agricultural mechanisation sub-station to promote custom hiring services under the Rakhine State Development Programme. The project will address challenges in agricultural productivity and is expected to improve the socio-economic status of the people in Rakhine, the people said. India, as a close friend and partner of both Bangladesh and Myanmar, has a deep interest to see an early stabilisation of the situation in Rakhine state. India supports the safe, sustainable, and speedy repatriation of displaced persons from Bangladesh to Rakhine state based on the understanding between Bangladesh and Myanmar, a second person said. India fully understands the urgency of this situation and has committed itself to humanitarian efforts in Myanmar and Bangladesh to facilitate an early return of the displaced persons. India has provided five tranches of relief supplies to Bangladesh and is willing to do more, the second person added. The Centre of Excellence in Software Development and Training (CESDT) at Myitkyina in Kachin state was also inaugurated. Under the ASEAN-India Cooperation Fund, New Delhi will set up IT infrastructure for advanced training using conventional and virtual classrooms and e-learning technologies. A liaison office of the Indian embassy in Naypyitaw was also inaugurated at a ceremony attended by Soe Han, permanent secretary of Myanmars foreign ministry, Shringla, Indian envoy Saurabh Kumar, and senior officials of both sides. The people described this as a significant step towards establishing an embassy in Naypyitaw. The operationalisation of Myanmars Sittwe port, as part of the Kaladan transit transport project, is part of Indias plans to boost connectivity with the landlocked northeastern states. India also wants enhanced security cooperation to counter the activities of militant groups, especially along the borders in Manipur and Nagaland, the people said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now admits that coronavirus does spread through airborne transmission, according to updated guidance on the agency's website. It comes two weeks after CDC officials said their previous warning about airborne transmission was 'in error,' making Monday's update the third time in a month the agency has flip-flopped on how the virus spreads. 'There is evidence that under certain conditions, people with COVID-19 seem to have infected others who were more than six feet away,' the latest guidance reads. 'In these instances, transmission occurred in poorly ventilated and enclosed spaces that often involved activities that caused heavier breathing, like singing or exercise. Such environments and activities may contribute to the buildup of virus-carrying particles.' If the virus does spread in fine particles, six feet of distance from an infected person would not necessarily be enough to protect you from catching the virus - but whether or not this is a significant mode of transmission is still hotly debated. The CDC has made a series of gaffs and been forced to backtrack statements in recent months, and the number of Americans who say they place faith in officials there has fallen 16 percent since April, according to a recent Kaiser Health Family Foundation survey. On Monday, the CDC updated its guidance to warn that coronavirus can spread through the air, despite retracting similar guidance that it said was posted 'in error' two weeks ago. Pictured: CDC director Dr Robert Redfield pauses while speaking at a Senate Appropriations subcommittee hearing last month The CDC now recognizes that 'some infections' can spread through the in tiny particles and 'can linger in the air for minutes to hours.' Measles, tuberculosis and chickenpox commonly spread this way, according to the CDC. Diseases that spread through the air in fine particles of saliva and mucus, known as aerosols, are especially dangerous because an infected person does not have to be coughing or sneezing to expel contagious particles. They can be released just by talking or breathing, and because they are so small they can drift further from their source before falling to the ground. For coronavirus, the CDC suspects that the amount of these small particles can become concentrated enough to cause an infection, but most likely only in enclosed spaces. CDC's previous, mistakenly posted guidance said coronavirus can spread through 'respiratory droplets or small particles, such as those in aerosols, produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, sings, talks, or breathes.' These particles can be inhaled and 'this is thought to be the main way the virus spreads' it continued. Effectively, this described aerosols and larger droplets as playing similar roles in the spread of coronavirus. Research thus far does not support the theory that they play comparable roles. The World Health Organization (WHO) said it contacted the CDC on September 21, to ask about the sudden update to its transmission guidance. During a news conference, Dr Mike Ryan, executive director of the WHO's health emergencies program, said the WHO had not seen 'new evidence' regarding airborne transmission and that it reached out to CDC to 'better understand' why the guidelines had changed. The WHO acknowledged in July that fine airborne particles may play a role in the spread of coronavirus, but do not consider it a main driver of transmission. Days before the confusion over its transmission guidance, the CDC also changed its controversial recommendations that people exposed to COVID-19 who are asymptomatic forego testing. Monday's updated guidance goes into more detail about the limited circumstances under which tiny particles from breathing or speaking (rather than coughing) might travel further than six feet and infect bystanders. In July, the WHO changed its own guidelines to acknowledge that it 'is possible' to become infected by airborne transmission. It came after 239 scientists in 32 countries wrote to the UN agency asking it to acknowledge the growing evidence the virus is airborne. Benedetta Allegranzi, the WHO's technical lead for infection prevention and control, acknowledged at the time that evidence of airborne transmission was emerging -but that it still needed to be carefully studied. 'The possibility of airborne transmission in public settings - especially in very specific conditions, crowded, closed, poorly ventilated settings that have been described, cannot be ruled out,' she said. 'However, the evidence needs to be gathered and interpreted, and we continue to support this.' For the time being, both the CDC and WHO still say that close and prolonged contact with an infected person is the most common way that the disease spreads. This is not the first time that the CDC has backtracked on guidance published on its website. Last month, the CDC suddenly and silently amended its testing recommendations to say that people who have come into contact with COVID-19 patients but don't have symptoms 'do not necessarily need a test.' Public health experts that noticed the change admonished the agency, arguing more tests are needed, not fewer, and that it is well-known the virus can be spread by asymptomatic people. Last week, the agency returned to its previous testing guidance and said anyone is exposed, regardless of symptoms, should be tested. The New York Times recently revealed that the first change was directed by officials at the Department of Health and Human Services and was published without review by scientists at the CDC. Previously, CDC said the virus is spread through respiratory droplets and close contact, but that there may be evidence the virus is airborne (file image) The novel coronavirus was first detected in Wuhan, China, at the end of last year when it caused a cluster of infections centered around a seafood market. Since then it has spread rapidly to almost every country, infecting more than 31 million people, according to a WHO tally. The US is the world's worst-hit country with 6.8 million infections, though India - with 5.4 million - has the world's fastest-growing outbreak and is due to overtake America in the coming weeks. Nearly one million people have died from the disease worldwide, according to official counts, though this is widely believed to be an under-estimate. The US has also suffered almost 200,000 deaths from the virus which is by far the highest global total. The next-highest is Brazil, which has recorded 136,000 deaths. Ongoing problems with testing, even in developed countries, means that, often, only patients with severe infections are able to have a diagnosis confirmed. This is significant because many patients are thought to exhibit only mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. El Papa offers a strong rebuke of the free market and its inability to care for humanity during a global crisis. Anybody who had to desperately scrounge for toilet paper during the coronavirus shortage must at least acknowledge that the faith leader has a viewpoint worthy of consideration. Check-it . . . Allentown, PA (18103) Today Not as cold with limited sunshine. A flurry or snow shower late in the day can't entirely be ruled out, mainly north and west of the Lehigh Valley.. Tonight A passing snow shower or flurry possible early; otherwise, clouds initially will give way to clearing late. BENGALURU, India and PRAGUE, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Infosys (NYSE: INFY), a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, today announced that it has completed the acquisition of GuideVision, one of the largest ServiceNow Elite Partners in Europe and an award winning enterprise service management consultancy specialised in offering strategic advisory, consulting, implementations, training and support on the ServiceNow platform. This follows the announcement the company made on September 14, 2020. Through this acquisition, Infosys further enhances its digital capabilities, strengthens Infosys Cobalt portfolio of cloud services and reaffirms commitment to the growing ServiceNow ecosystem. GuideVision brings to Infosys, end-to-end offerings, including SnowMirror - a proprietary smart data replication tool for ServiceNow instances that enables over 100 enterprise clients to simplify complex business and IT processes. GuideVision's training academy and nearshore capabilities in Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and presence in Germany and Finland strengthens Infosys' ServiceNow capabilities, offering clients in Europe unparalleled capabilities in cloud-first digital transformation. ServiceNow is one of the fastest growing enterprise software companies, and is becoming an 'essential service' and workflow standard for organizations. Infosys was recognized by ServiceNow as the 2019 and 2020 ServiceNow Global Service Provider Partner of the Year. Infosys is excited to welcome GuideVision and its leadership team. ServiceNow, Now Platform and others are among the trademarks of ServiceNow, Inc. About Guidevision GuideVision is a dynamic and progressive consultancy committed to enabling clients to reimagine and transform their enterprise service management with ServiceNow. GuideVision offers a unique combination of strategic expertise, innovative technological knowledge and agile methodology. Our mission is to make ServiceNow work for you and your goals. www.guidevision.eu About Infosys Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting. We enable clients in 46 countries to navigate their digital transformation. With nearly four decades of experience in managing the systems and workings of global enterprises, we expertly steer our clients through their digital journey. We do it by enabling the enterprise with an AI-powered core that helps prioritize the execution of change. We also empower the business with agile digital at scale to deliver unprecedented levels of performance and customer delight. Our always-on learning agenda drives their continuous improvement through building and transferring digital skills, expertise, and ideas from our innovation ecosystem. Visit www.infosys.com to see how Infosys (NYSE: INFY) can help your enterprise navigate your next. Safe Harbor Certain statements in this release concerning our future growth prospects, financial expectations and plans for navigating the COVID-19 impact on our employees, clients and stakeholders are forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the 'safe harbor' under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding COVID-19 and the effects of government and other measures seeking to contain its spread, risks related to an economic downturn or recession in India, the United States and other countries around the world, changes in political, business, and economic conditions, fluctuations in earnings, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, our ability to manage growth, intense competition in IT services including those factors which may affect our cost advantage, wage increases in India, our ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, time and cost overruns on fixed-price, fixed-time frame contracts, client concentration, restrictions on immigration, industry segment concentration, our ability to manage our international operations, reduced demand for technology in our key focus areas, disruptions in telecommunication networks or system failures, our ability to successfully complete and integrate potential acquisitions, liability for damages on our service contracts, the success of the companies in which Infosys has made strategic investments, withdrawal or expiration of governmental fiscal incentives, political instability and regional conflicts, legal restrictions on raising capital or acquiring companies outside India, unauthorized use of our intellectual property and general economic conditions affecting our industry and the outcome of pending litigation and government investigation. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our United States Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020. These filings are available at www.sec.gov. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company unless it is required by law. SOURCE Infosys Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism. A Manitoulin OPP officer will not face charges in connection to an arrest that resulted in a devastating injury to a mans eye. The Special Investigation Unit (SIU) released a report that concluded the police officer did not use excessive force when he discharged a conducted energy weapon, or CEW, that struck a 25-year-old man in the eye during an arrest in Espanola on Feb. 23. As I am satisfied that the police officer acted lawfully throughout his interaction with the complainant, there are no grounds for proceeding with criminal charges against the officer, said the report. According to the evidence, Manitoulin OPP officers responded to a 911 call from a residence on John Street on the evening of the altercation. The caller reported that a man was outside the home trying to break in. At the time, the man was subject to a court order prohibiting him from being at that address, so police officers were dispatched to the area. As police were responding, a second 911 call was made in which someone reported that they had just been in a physical altercation with a man who tried to enter their vehicle. When police arrived, the man had allegedly entered another residence before fleeing on foot. Police pursued the man who continued to flee on foot in a southerly direction over private properties towards Albert Street, eventually making his way to the area around the intersection of Adelaide and Marguerite streets. The man then made his way to the back of a property and climbed a fence before falling over. The police officer discharged his weapon as the man was getting up. Following the complainants arrest, it was immediately apparent to the officers on the scene that one of the (CEWs) probes had struck the complainant in the area of one of his eyes, resulting in an injury. He was taken from the scene in ambulance to hospital, said the SIU report. The man, whose name was not released by the SIU, was initially taken to hospital in Espanola, and later transferred to Health Sciences North in Sudbury where it was determined that the probe may have punctured the mans eyeball. The complainants prognosis in the days following his arrest was not favourable. He was anticipated to lose vision in his left eye and the vision in his right eye was determined to be at serious risk, as well. There was also some prospect that both of his eyeballs might have to be removed at some point in the future. Because of the injury, the SIUs mandate was invoked and an investigation into the incident launched. The SIU obtained evidence from the scene of the incident, forensic evidence from the CEW, and police communications recordings. In addition, the SIU also collected the complainants clothing and Health Sciences North medical records relating to the incident. After reviewing the evidence, SIU director Joseph Martino determined there were no grounds for proceeding with criminal charges against the officer. The complainant was clearly subject to arrest at the time the police officer discharged his weapon. He had breached the terms of his undertaking by attending at a residence on John Street from which he was barred. The issue turns to the propriety of the force used against the complainant, namely, the CEW discharge, said the report. By the time the (officer) discharged his weapon, the complainant had been engaged in an hours long flight from police on foot in which he had attempted to commandeer a civilians vehicle (leading to a physical altercation with the civilian), forcibly entered into a home, and trespassed across multiple properties. He was clearly determined to escape police apprehension and his effort dogged in that purpose. Once finally within reach, the officer was of the view that his immediate apprehension was necessary in the interests of public safety. I agree. The report stated that had the officer not taken immediate action, the man would have had more opportunity to escape and this constituted a danger to people in the area. It is highly regrettable, to say the least, that a probe struck one of the complainants eyes, but I have no reason to believe that the police officer intentionally aimed his weapon at the complainants face or that he was criminally negligent in its use. The Special Investigations Unit is a civilian law enforcement agency that investigates incidents involving police officers where there has been death, serious injury or allegations of sexual assault. The units jurisdiction covers more than 50 municipal, regional and provincial police services across Ontario. The Local Journalism Initiative is made possible through funding from the federal government. sud.editorial@sunmedia.ca Twitter: @SudburyStar Representative image Tracey Tully For two years, New Jersey lawmakers had failed to mobilize enough support to pass a bill to fully legalize marijuana. Instead, they agreed in December to put the question directly to voters: Do you approve amending the Constitution to legalize a controlled form of marijuana called cannabis? Then March roared in and the world turned upside down. The coronavirus took a firm hold in the United States and Black Lives Matter protesters filled streets from coast to coast. More than 16,000 New Jersey residents have since died from the virus. Unemployment has soared. Ballots for Novembers election, which is being conducted almost entirely by mail, have already begun to arrive at voters homes. And a dominant conversation in the nation now centers on race and policing, giving a core argument among supporters of legalization new potency in a state where Black residents are more than three times as likely as white residents to be charged with marijuana possession. The big thing thats changed, said Axel Owen, campaign manager for NJ Can 2020, a coalition that supports legalization, is people are having a discussion about the role of policing. A Monmouth University poll in April found that 64 percent of New Jersey voters supported legalizing the possession of marijuana for personal use; 61 percent of respondents said they intended to vote yes on Novembers ballot question. The use of marijuana for approved medical conditions is legal in 33 states, including New Jersey. In 2012, Colorado and Washington became the first states to make it legal to smoke marijuana recreationally, without a medical justification. Nine additional states and Washington, D.C., have since legalized adult use of marijuana, and New Jersey is one of four states where voters will be asked in November if they support legalizing recreational use of the drug. Arizona, Montana and South Dakota have similar ballot initiatives. If voters approve all four, 1 in 3 Americans will live in a state or city where recreational use of marijuana is legal, even before federal legislation advances. Weve seen this complete evolution in thinking, said Steven Hawkins, executive director of the Marijuana Policy Project, a nonprofit that supports legalization. New Jersey is one of the bluest states in the nation and South Dakota is one of the reddest and they both have ballot initiatives in November. Opponents say they fear the long-term effects of the drug, its potent levels of THC the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana and the potential glut of licensed distributors in struggling cities. Still, they are facing strong headwinds at a time when the nation is focused on police killings of Black residents that have shined a spotlight on systemic bias. What was once an argument centered mainly on the bottom-line benefits of taxing and regulating a product widely in use has been reframed as one with equity and the disproportionate rates of arrest in minority neighborhoods at its heart. If approved, New Jersey densely populated and bordered by states that have not legalized marijuana, New York and Pennsylvania is expected to quickly become one of the biggest new cannabis markets in the country. Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat and a proponent of legalization, argues that expanding the industry is a smart way to help the state rebound from the long-term financial devastation of the pandemic. You have the bridge, two tunnels, said Joseph Casper, manager of a medical marijuana dispensary in Montclair, New Jersey, about the states proximity to New York. People are just going to be shooting back and forth all day. Curaleaf, the worlds largest cannabis company, operates a medicinal marijuana dispensary in South Jersey and was just licensed to open a second outlet in the state. Joe Bayern, the companys president, says Curaleaf is building a 100,000-square-foot grow facility in Winslow, New Jersey, with an eye toward being able to quickly pivot into the adult-use market if the ballot initiative passes. We need more capacity, Bayern said. Theres going to be a quantum leap in consumption and it takes time to prepare, to be ready for that. Demand for medical marijuana in New Jersey has never been higher. Customers at the states nine dispensaries frequently find long lines and limited selection of the drug, which sells for about $400 to $500 an ounce, according to dispensary owners, managers and clients. There were nearly 200 applicants for 24 new dispensary licenses in the states latest round of bids. A research arm of the state Legislature has estimated that taxes on sales of recreational-use marijuana could generate about $126 million a year once the market is established; groups in favor of legalization say the revenue would likely be far higher. Municipalities would also be permitted to charge cannabis businesses an additional 2% tax. The industry could also create jobs, a detail supporters say is especially enticing at a time when the pandemic has led to unparalleled levels of unemployment in New Jersey. But first, its up to voters to decide. The pandemic changed the strategy of organizations on both sides of the issue, and fundraising has been a struggle for proponents and opponents. With attention focused on the presidential contest, both sides said they feared voters would skip or fail to see the question, which in many counties is printed on the back of ballots. NJ Can 2020 said it was starting a blitz of advertising on social media platforms. We just want to make sure that people are getting down to the ballot question, said Scott Rudder, a former Republican assemblyman who is now president of New Jersey CannaBusiness Association. Gregg Edwards, executive director of Dont Let NJ Go to Pot, which is working to persuade voters to reject the constitutional amendment, said a key part of his organizations planned campaign face-to-face presentations to parent organizations, police unions and corporations was curtailed by the virus. I expected to have my calender full talking to PTAs, and those have just gone away, said Edwards, who worked as a policy adviser to Chris Christie, the former Republican governor. Edwards said he believed one of the strongest arguments against the referendum was the lasting nature of a vote to change the state constitution. By enshrining legalization in the constitution, towns that are not keen on welcoming marijuana distributors may have a difficult time keeping them out, he said. The New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police and the New Jersey Psychiatric Association both oppose legalization, and lawmakers in Ocean County have adopted a nonbinding resolution against permitting recreational use of the drug. Joe Vicari, chairman of the Ocean County Board of Chosen Freeholders, said he was mainly concerned about the risks of drivers operating vehicles while under the influence of marijuana, a worry echoed by the police chiefs. I believe its a public safety issue, said Vicari, 73, a former teacher and superintendent. It has an impairment on your perception, your motor skills, your reflexes. Led by the American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey, supporters of legalization have amassed a large coalition of backers and have portrayed the issue as a way to advance racial justice. Nationwide, Black people are 3.64 times more likely than white people to be charged with marijuana possession, even though they use the drug at comparable rates, according to a 2018 ACLU report. Even as weve had this public conversation about legalization, police are still making record numbers of arrests of people of color for marijuana possession and that should be unconscionable, said Amol Sinha, executive director of the ACLU-New Jersey. If the police have fewer reasons to make stops, supporters of legalization argue, there also will be less potential for violent confrontations. That argument has gained new urgency in the wake of nationwide protests over the death of George Floyd, a Black man who died after a white police officer in Minneapolis knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. Protesters calls for an overhaul of policing intensified in August after another Black man, Jacob Blake, was repeatedly shot in the back by a white police officer in Kenosha, Wisconsin. And a grand jurys decision last month not to charge white police officers for the death of Breonna Taylor, a Black woman who was shot in her home in Louisville, Kentucky, has continued to fuel protesters outrage. R. Todd Edwards, the political action chairman of the New Jersey conference of the NAACP, said he agreed that legalizing marijuana was a crucial component of reform. But he said it was also essential for Black communities most harmed by marijuana enforcement to share in the financial benefits of legalization if the ballot initiative passes. This will be especially important, he said, during conversations about how licenses are issued, and to whom. We want a seat at the table all the way through, Edwards said. If this passes and we are not at the table, it will have been a big hoax. c.2020 The New York Times Company TheJakartaPost Please Update your browser Your browser is out of date, and may not be compatible with our website. A list of the most popular web browsers can be found below. Just click on the icons to get to the download page. The Ministry of Infrastructure of Ukraine, together with business, has begun work on a new concept for the development of electromobility in Ukraine, the press service of the ministry has reported. According to a press release, on this occasion, on Friday, October 2, the ministry held a meeting of the working group on the development of electric transport, chaired by Minister of Infrastructure of Ukraine Vladyslav Krykliy. "The national transport strategy until 2030 already provides for the stimulation of the use of electric vehicles in Ukraine. A number of relevant amendments have also been made to Ukrainian legislation. We, in turn, are starting work on a new concept for the development of electric mobility in Ukraine to create appropriate conditions for the production of domestic electric vehicles. We invite all interested industry specialists to cooperation," the press service of the ministry said, citing Krykliy. As of September 15, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, almost 24,000 electric cars were registered in Ukraine and this figure is constantly growing. The ministry is actively working on changes to national building codes for planning and development of territories, which would allow the placement of charging stations on all public roads and at filling stations. He also noted the importance of popularizing electric public transport. The members of the working group got acquainted with proposals for the development of a future concept for the development of electromobility and discussed the key aspects that it should contain. The event was also attended by Deputy Minister of Infrastructure Dmytro Zhyvytsky, representatives of the Ministry of Infrastructure, the Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and Agriculture, the Reform Support Team under the Ministry of Infrastructure, EV-UA and Ukrautoprom associations, Eurocar, Electron, Bogdan Motors, and others. Twitter has a new experimental tool to tackle misinformation called birdwatch. Matt Navarra has shared screenshots of what the new feature looks like in its current form. As reported by Engadget, this new feature is set to be added to Twitter in the coming weeks. It will become an option in the drop-down menu where Mute, Block and Report buttons currently exist. Social media companies are all facing a difficult battle to fight misinformation on their platforms. During election time, this is especially difficult which has led Google and Twitter to find new methods to tackle fake news. Advertisement Over recent weeks Twitter has issued hundreds of new bans in an attempt to curb the spread of misinformation. However, many feel that current actions have only led to limited success. Twitter will hope that this new feature, birdwatch, will be the beginning of the fightback against misinformation. Twitter posses new misinformation tackling tool Birdwatch appears to be a way for users to flag tweets for moderation. Users can use the feature to flag any tweet but also add private or public notes as to why they did so. Advertisement If and when the feature gets implemented onto the site it will look like a pair of binoculars at the bottom of a tweet. This will show users Birdwatch notes about it. The site will also add a new a new tab named Birdwatch Notes. This will allow users to keep track of their contributions on the new feature. This feature was first noticed back in August but has science developed quite significantly since then. Advertisement Twitter confirms the purpose of birdwatch Twitter is yet to offer much in the way of firm details about Birdwatch. However, it has confirmed that tackling misinformation is the primary goal of the feature. Clearly, the goal of the new feature is to essentially use crowdsourcing to help tackle misinformation. However, many have expressed worries that the nature of the feature will end up being counteractive to its goal. They feel birdwatch itself could be used as a tool of misinformation. Some have pointed out that Twitter may only allow select users, such as verified experts or moderators to add birdwatch comments. This may help the feature act more credibly but would lose its wide reach. Advertisement It will be interesting to see how this feature operates if and when it does roll out to users. Overall, it is good to see Twitter taking proactive action against misinformation. However, this has also demonstrated the great challenges social media companies face regarding this issue. Two men were killed and three others injured on Monday in a terror attack at Kandizal near Pampore in south Kashmir's Pulwama district which, a senior police officer said, was carried out by Lashkar-e-Taiba. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Vijay Kumar said two motorcycle-borne terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on a Road Opening Party (ROP), leading to casualties. "The ultras fired indiscriminately at the Central Reserve Police Force ROP with an AK-47 rifle. Though the security personnel retaliated, the terrorists managed to escape." He said one of the two attackers was identified as Saifullah, a Pakistani national, whereas the other is a local person. "Earlier Saifullah was responsible for a terror attack at Chadoora in which one Assistant Sub-Inspector (was killed," he said. Hunt is on to neutralise the terrorists. He said that the Highway was vulnerable to terrorist attacks but security forces were maintaining restraint to avoid civilian casualties. --IANS zi/tsb (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.) A Trump administration aide pressured Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) experts to alter its report on children's coronavirus risks, emails obtained by Politico suggest. Paul Alexander, a part-time assistant professor of health research methods at McMaster University in Canada who was brought into the Trump administration by Michael Caputo, pressed the editor of the CDC's weekly reports to take out the terms 'children, adolescents and young adults,' from one such publication, and replace them with 'persons aged <21.' The move came as President Trump turned up the pressure on states to reopen schools in September. Experts argue that the re-wording was intentionally vague and downplays the pediatric risks of coronavirus. CDC's editor, Dr Charlotte Kent defended the change, claiming it was consistent with discussions already underway within the agency. But the email exchanges followed a series of White House attempts to muzzle both CDC director Dr Robert Redfield and infectious disease expert Dr Anthony Fauci on the subject of children's risks. Alexander's emails also reveal his own opinions and motivations. The CDC, he claimed, is 'constantly reporting incompletely and writing in a manner to make the nation run and dig a hole and climb inside with their children for 10 years,' he wrote to a group of officials, including Dr Redfield and Dr Kent on August 8. Dr Paul Alexander suggested that CDC officials change the wording of their report on the coronavirus risks for people under the age of 21 to not include the words 'children' or 'adolescents,' emails obtained by Politico reveal (file) Ultimately, the report's title was changed as requested by Dr Alexander, though the CDC claims it was not due to his or any other White House officials' influence A month later, President Trump tweeted: 'Democrats, OPEN THE SCHOOLS (SAFELY), NOW!' And later in September, when school in most states did already have children back in school, Trump reiterated the demand, and tacked on an untrue claim about infection rates among young people. Coronavirus 'affects virtually nobody' young, Trump falsely said at campaign rally in Toledo, Ohio. 'It affects elderly people, elderly people with heart problems and other problems. Thats what it really affects,' Trump said. 'In some states, thousands of people - nobody young. Below the age of 18, like, nobody.' The CDC - as the American Academy of Pediatrics - defines pediatric patients as anyone under age 21. Dr Charlotte Kent said she and her staff had been thinking of a similar change to wording themselves, and claims that no changes were made due to outside influence, despite at least one aggressive email from Dr Alexander In September 11 email exchanges with CDC officials, Alexander called it 'misleading' to classify people over 18 as 'pediatric,' according to Politico. He claimed that the then-forthcoming Mortality and Morbidity Weekly Report (MMWR) lumped together the risks for young children and adolescents inappropriately. The report found that there have been 391,814 cases of coronavirus among people under 21 in the US, accounting for about eight percent of all infections in the nation. An estimated 121 people under 21 had died as of the report's publication on September 15 - about 0.08 percent of all deaths. The average age of the 121 children who died was 16. More than half of the victims of coronavirus - 71 - were under age 18. Nonetheless, MMWR editor Dr Kent said in the earlier portions of their email conversation that there had been some internal concerns similar to Alexander's. 'This wording issue was flagged by CDC scientific reviewers as part of the routine internal clearance process for MMWR reports,' she said in a statement. 'They noted, and MMWR editorial staff agreed, that the change should be made for clarity and to make the wording consistent with other scientific characterizations of age.' But the mere fact that he had contacted the health officials was problematic. Dr Kent worried that even if she and her colleagues changed the language of their report of their own volition, it would appear that they'd done so under political pressure. 'If we change the title and how the cases are described, there could be an erroneous perception that we are being influenced,' she wrote on September 14 to Dr Anne Schuchat, CDC's principal deputy director, in an email obtained by Politico. CDC director Dr Robert Redfield testified that 'at no time has the scientific integrity of the MMWR been compromised,' but he was previously blocked by the White House from speaking before the House about the possibility of sending kids back to school earlier this year Ultimately, the title was swapped out. It might have been re-written any way, but the contact between Alexander and CDC officials is part of a larger network of unusual interactions between the White House and the nation's public health agency. In July, the White House blocked Dr Redfield from testifying about school reopenings after Democrats invited him to speak before the House. According to the New York Times, White House coronavirus task force point person Dr Deborah Birx also asked the CDC to reconsider its recommendations on sending children back to school. Alexander left the White House on September 16, immediately after Caputo departed on a leave of absence to battle cancer. The same day, Dr Redfield testified before the Senate that 'at no time has the scientific integrity of the MMWR been compromised...And I can say that under my watch it will not be compromised.' But Americans are less certain of that. Since April, public trust in the CDC has fallen by 16 percent, according to a September 10 Kaiser Family Foundation poll. Neither the CDC nor Dr Alexander hadresponded to request for comment by the time of publication. By Ramzi Teymurov Azerbaijani Ambassador to Korea Ramzi Teymurov YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. The Defense Ministry of Armenia denies the information spread by Azerbaijan that allegedly the Armenian Armed Forces keep Azerbaijani city of Ganja under fire, MoD spokesperson Shushan Stepanyan told ARMENPRESS. No fire is conducted from Armenia against Azerbaijani settlements. Its just the Azerbaijani propaganda machine that regularly spread such false information, she said. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan Russia is trying to present the Mejlis as "an extremist organization." Chairman of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar People, former Member of Parliament of Ukraine Refat Chubarov says 15-20 Russian propagandists will go on a tour of temporarily occupied Crimea soon to "explain" developments on the peninsula. "There are several messages the Russian occupiers are trying to actively propagate in the minds of the international community. They do it around the clock... About 15-20 leading 'journalists' of Russia will be brought to Crimea one of these days. They will make such a 'tour' across Crimea to explain once again, as they say, what has been happening in Crimea," he said during an online briefing about the political persecution of the Mejlis leaders by the Russian occupying administration. In those messages, the "journalists" will claim the Mejlis is allegedly "an extremist organization, and therefore it is only prohibited," while the Mejlis leaders and leading Crimean Tatar politicians are "extremists and terrorists," and allegedly therefore criminal cases have been initiated against them, Chubarov said. "The third message is the following: 'We are not fighting the Crimean Tatars, we are only trying to remove those of them who are terrorists and extremists,'" he said. According to the Mejlis leader, these are only three messages among many others that Russia is trying to "hammer" into the heads of Western European politicians and the international community in general, thereby complicating their understanding of the events in Ukraine and Crimea. Read also Russia triples military presence in Crimea after annexation MFA Russian occupation of Crimea: Background KAMPALA The Deputy Chief Justice, Richard Buteera said the International Crimes Division (ICD) has the potential to serve as a model for other countries that are seeking to pursue justice for international crimes in their national systems. While delivering a keynote address on the Practice and Procedure for the Adjudication of International Crimes in Uganda during a Validation Workshop of the Judicial Bench book at the Judicial Training Institute on Friday, the DCJ said Kenya and South Sudan have already been in the country to understudy the ICD. The DCJ added that the Courts establishment gives hope to victims of serious crimes. Accountability for grave crimes is essential to building respect for the rule of Law and preventing cycles of violent conflicts that have characterised Ugandas past, he added. He highlighted some of the challenges faced by ICD such as the complex nature of investigations, the award of blanket amnesties, the absence of victim and witness protection measures and lack of a legal framework to govern the participation of victims in the proceedings. The DCJ, however, promised full support of Judiciary leadership to the ICD in the fulfillment of its critical mandate to deliver Justice to victims of international crime. Justice Buteera commended the ICD and JTI for their key roles in the development of the Judicial Bench Book on practice and procedure for the adjudication of international Crimes. The workshop, which was organized by JTI in partnership with Avocats Sans Frontiers(ASF) and the International centre for Transitional Justice(ICTJ), drew over 20 participants. Justice Buteera welcomed the Bench Book saying it will help reduce the delay in handling matters before ICD. The adjudication of international crimes is still new in the country, and despite numerous trainings and support from various partners, we need long-term solutions. This Judicial Bench Book is, therefore, a welcome resource that will bolster the capacity of the International Crimes Division to deliver justice effectively. I believe this will go a long way in reducing the delays in these cases. The Executive Director of the Institute, Hon. Justice Damalie N. Lwanga, commended Rtd Justice Elizabeth Nahamya and the entire team for their efforts in the development of the the Bench Book. Following Justice Nahamyas presentation, it was agreed that the book be formally launched on a date to be communicated. Judges; David K Wangutusi-the Head of International Crimes Division, Susan Okalany, Gadenya Paul Wolimbwa took part in the workshop. Dr Katja Kerchbaumer, from the Austrian Development Cooperation, Ms Irene Anying (coordinator of programs ASF) and Ms Sarah Kihika Kasande (Head of office ICTJ) were also in attendance. Related President Trump will return to the White House on Monday from the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center where he has been receiving treatment for the coronavirus, for three days, his doctors have said. Hes back, Sean Conley, the presidents physician, told reporters at a press conference outside the hospital on Monday afternoon, the New York Times is reporting. PREMIUM TIMES reported how the 74-year-old, who is vying for reelection, and his wife, Melania Trump, contracted coronavirus. Mr Trump broke the news through his verified Twitter handle in the early hours of Friday. The U.S. which is one of the hardest hit nations since the COVID-19 pandemic first emerged in Wuhan, China, has so far lost over 210, 000 persons to the contagion. Feeling good Mr Trump also broke the news of his imminent return via a tweet. He said he was feeling really good after being diagnosed with the disease on Friday and claimed COVID-19 was nothing to be afraid of. I will be leaving the great Walter Reed Medical Center today at 6:30 P.M. Feeling really good! he told his 86 million followers. Dont be afraid of Covid. Dont let it dominate your life. We have developed, under the Trump Administration, some really great drugs & knowledge. I feel better than I did 20 years ago! he said. Meanwhile, Mr Conley was also reported to have said Mr Trumps vital signs are stable, and so he could recuperate at the White House. Hes up and back to his old self, Mr Conley said. We all remain cautiously optimistic and on guard because were in a bit of unchartered territory when it comes to a patient that received the therapies he has so early in the course, so were looking to this weekend. If we can get through to Monday with him remaining the same or improving, better yet, then we will all take that final deep sigh of relief. The doctor also defended the decision to release him early. Theres nothing thats being done upstairs here that we cant safely conduct down there (White House), Mr Conley said. Heavy fighting between Armenia and Azerbaijan continued Saturday in their conflict over the separatist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh while Azerbaijans president criticized the international mediators who have tried for decades to resolve the dispute. Fighting that started Sept. 27 is the worst to afflict Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding areas since the 1994 end of a war that left the region in Azerbaijan under the control of ethnic Armenian local forces backed by Armenia. Shushan Stepanian, a spokeswoman for the Armenian Defense Ministry, told The Associated Press that intensive fighting is taking place along the entire front line, and claimed that Armenian forces had shot down three planes. Azerbaijans defense ministry did not respond to the claim of planes being shot down, but said Armenian forces had shelled civilian territory within Azerbaijan, including the city of Terter. Nagorno-Karabakh officials have said more than 150 servicemen on their side have been killed so far. Azerbaijani authorities havent given details on their military casualties but said 19 civilians have been killed and 55 more wounded. Nagorno-Karabakh was a designated autonomous region within Azerbaijan during the Soviet era. It claimed independence from Azerbaijan in 1991, about three months before the Soviet Union's collapse. Full-scale war that broke out in 1992 killed an estimated 30,000 people. By the time it ended in 1994, Armenian forces not only held Nagorno-Karabakh itself but substantial areas outside the territory's formal borders. Several United Nations Security Council resolutions have called for withdrawal from those areas, which the Armenian forces have disregarded. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said in a television interview that the forces must withdraw from those areas before fighting can stop. In the interview with al-Jazeera, a transcript of which was distributed Saturday by the presidential press office, Aliyev criticized the so-called Minsk Group of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, which has tried to mediate a resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh dispute. One of the reasons behind the current fighting is that the mediators do not insist or exert pressure to start implementing the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council, he said. We have no time to wait another 30 years. The conflict must be resolved now. Aliyev said. ___ Associated Press writers Avet Demourian in Yerevan, Armenia, and Jim Heintz in Moscow contributed to this report. By PTI MATHURA: Rashtriya Lok Dal activists on Monday blocked traffic on Nauhil Bajna-Aligarh road near here in protest against the alleged lathi-charge by police on their party's fellow workers going to meet the family of the Hathras gang-rape-cum murder victim. Chaudhary Ajit Singh-led RLD leader Yogesh Nauhar said hundreds of party workers along with the residents of various villages in the district blocked the road for several hours. The RLD workers also burnt the effigies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, besides raising anti-government slogans, said Nauhar. Expressing anger that the heir of late Chaudhary Charan Singh's legacies was lathi-charged by police, Nauhar said our leader Jayant Chaudhary had only gone to express solidarity with the victim's family members. The RLD leaders, who participated in protest included Mathura district's president Bhagwati Prasad and RLD Cooperative Cell in-charge Kedari Pahalwan, he said. Hathras police earlier on Sunday had said the RLD workers had broken the police barriers and pushed and shoved police personnel on duty, and to bring the situation under control, light force was used against the agitated crowd. Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor Donald Trump has a public image he has worked very hard to maintain that is, if talking about it a lot counts as work. Hes strong, he tells us. Hes tough, hes smart, hes competent. As with so many things about this flawed, pernicious and disturbing man, there is more than a little bit of the psychological concept of compensation in these pronouncements. Compensation is when a person, feeling insecure about ones abilities in a certain area, compensates by talking loudly about ones prowess in it. This last month we have seen this compensation exposed for what it is, and the dismantling, piece by piece, of the construction of Trumps image, however false it was to begin with. Feeling "much better now" ... US President Donald Trump speaks from hospital in a four-minute video. Credit:Twitter/@realDonaldTrump In its place is something much different: the infantilisation of a figure and, even more disturbingly, his office. Any pretense to competence is gone to anyone who has heard the tapes that reporter Bob Woodward released about the President. In these, Trump confesses in some detail to his understanding of the coronavirus, its severity, and his deliberate underplaying of it. The result: the worlds most advanced nation boasting the worlds most severe outbreak. Even today, cases are spiking in wide swaths of the United States. FREDERICTON - New Brunswick is reporting two new travel-related COVID-19 infections today, bringing the total number of active cases in the province to five. One case involves a person between 20 and 29 years old in the Moncton, N.B., region who travelled internationally and who is isolating. The second case involves a person between 60 and 69 years old in the Saint John, N.B., region who travelled outside Atlantic Canada and who is also isolating. Public Health is advising passengers on two Air Canada flights to monitor their health and to call 811 if COVID-19 symptoms develop. Authorities say a foreign traveller on flights 992 from Mexico City to Toronto on Sept. 29 and 8910 from Toronto to Moncton on Sept. 30, may have been infectious. New Brunswick has reported a total of 203 COVID-19 cases and two deaths attributed to the novel coronavirus. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020 Read more about: It's kept viewers in suspense over the meaning of its title, and now The Singapore Grip has finally shown what the phrase signifies with a very racy scene. Episode four of the ITV's WWII drama, which aired last night, saw Matthew Webb (portrayed by Luke Treadaway), the son of a powerful aristocrat (played by Game of Thrones Charles Dance), reunite with his love interest Vera Chiang (Elizabeth Tan). Little is known of the beautiful and mysterious young woman who was friends with the leading character's father Mr Webb, but the lovers continued to dance around one another until Vera invited Matthew to her home. The stunner performed the Singapore Grip on Matthew, which is a technique used by women to tighten their vagina during sex, with viewers celebrating 'finally' discovering the meaning behind the phrase. Based on the 1978 novel by JG Farrell, which drew on real events, The Singapore Grip is the story of rich Brits living in the Crown colony in the early 1940s until the invasion of the Japan in 1942, one of the key events of the Second World War, throws their lives into turmoil. Scroll down for video It's kept viewers in suspense over the meaning of its title, and now The Singapore Grip has finally shown what the phrase signifies with a very racy scene (pictured) Episode four of the ITV's WWII drama, which aired last night, saw Matthew Webb (pictured) (portrayed by Luke Treadaway), the son of a powerful aristocrat (played by Game of Thrones Charles Dance), reunite with his love interest Vera Chiang (Elizabeth Tan) In yesterday's show, Matthew was seen reuniting with his father's friend Vera Chiang after she cared for him in the last episode during his fever. What does the Singapore Grip mean? The Singapore Grip involves the woman using her vaginal muscles to stimulate the mans penis during intercourse, while stationary. The technique is thought to have originated in India and has its background in the traditions of Hindu and Buddhist culture. Advertisement After Matthew insisted he will help his lover leave Singapore to escape the Japanese invasion, Vera invited Matthew to her home, and when there, the romantic chemistry quickly escalated. Vera takes the lead after admitting that she's 'not so happy with how you like to do this in the West, like a collision between two drunk drivers'. 'We like to think love is an art,' she explained before showing a shocked Matthew a book of sexual positions. During intercourse, Vera performed the Singapore Grip on Matthew, which is a sexual technique which involves the woman using her vaginal muscles to stimulate a man's penis during intercourse while they remain stationary. 'What was that?' a stunned Matthew questioned, while a smug Vera replied: 'That was the Singapore Grip.' In the series, the term 'Singapore grip' is a running joke, as naive Matthew doesn't know it describes a sexual act and uses it in a variety of other ways, including to describe a type of greeting or a bag. Following the scene, one viewer wrote: 'Oh, so he's found out what it is now!', while another said: 'He's finally going to find out what it is.' Vera performed the Singapore Grip on Matthew, which is a technique used by women to tighten their vagina during sex, with viewers (above) celebrating 'finally' discovering the meaning behind the phrase In yesterday's show, Matthew (pictured) was seen reuniting with his father's friend Vera Chiang after she cared for him in the last episode during his fever Matthew is seen returning to Singapore in the first episode, after the passing of his father Mr Webb (pictured with Elizabeth Tan as Vera Chiang) A third added: 'No wonder he's been desperate to find her again since episode one' and a fourth wrote: 'Lucky, lucky him.' The programme has been widely panned by viewers, with some saying the 'awful' script had left the actors with 'nothing to work with'. 'Is this supposed to be a comedy because the acting and script are very OTT?!' one person wrote. 'Not sure what to make of it. #singaporegrip' Another added: 'I was looking forward to the Singapore Grip, but am finding it quite boring...very disappointing.' Johnson & Johnson will pay more than $100million to settle over 1,000 lawsuits that allege the company's talc-based baby powder caused cancer. The company faces more than 19,000 lawsuits from consumers and suvivors who claim the company's talc products caused cancer due to contamination with asbestos, a known carcinogen. However, the company maintains its talc is safe even though it has replaced such products with a cornstarch version in the US and Canada. Johnson & Johnson's payout is the first set of major settlements in four years of litigation, Bloomberg reported on Monday, citing people with knowledge of the pacts. Johnson & Johnson will pay more than $100million to settle over 1,000 lawsuits that allege the company's talc-based Baby Powder caused cancer The settlement was struck with several law firms and marks the first time the company has settled the bulk of plaintiffs lawyer's cases in the baby powder suits rather than settle individual suits on the eve or during trial. The deals come seven months since the company last faced a jury reviewing evidence about the cancer risk of its signature talc product. The drugmaker declined to comment on the Bloomberg report, but reiterated its talc is safe and does not contain asbestos. 'In certain circumstances, we do choose to settle lawsuits, which is done without an admission of liability and in no way changes our position regarding the safety of our products,' the company said in a statement. In May, Johnson & Johnson said it would stop selling its talc in the United States and Canada after demand had fallen in the wake of what it called 'misinformation' about the product's safety amid a barrage of legal challenges. The company's baby powder currently makes up about 0.5 precent of the company's US consumer health business. Johnson & Johnson has faced scrutiny over the safety of its baby powder following an investigative report by Reuters in 2018 that found the company knew for decades that asbestos lurked in its talc, with the earliest mention found in documents from 1957 and 1958. WHY COULD TALCUM POWDER BE DANGEROUS? Talcum powder is made of finely ground talc, a mineral which forms underground as a clay-like rock. It is often mined from the same place as asbestos, a mineral known to cause lung disease. While talc is used for the skin due to its softness and moisture-absorbing properties, asbestos was used for insulation. Non-contaminated talc is completely safe but, if it is tainted with asbestos, there is a risk it could be damaging to health. In the past, tests have shown traces of asbestos in talcum powder products. About eight out of 10 people with mesothelioma - a type of lung cancer -have been exposed to asbestos. When asbestos fibers are breathed in, they travel to the ends of small air passages and reach the membranes of the thorax and lungs. They can cause inflammation and scarring, damage cells DNA, or cause changes that result in uncontrolled cell growth. If swallowed, these fibers can reach the abdominal lining, where they can cause mesothelioma. Ovarian cancer is another cancer asbestos is believed to be linked to, and is at the heart of Johnson & Johnson lawsuits in which women have claimed talcum powder has given them the cancer. In some cases they have won and received million-dollar payouts from the company. It is not clear why or how asbestos travels to ovarian tissues. Advertisement The company held settlement talks during a lull in the trial caused by the pandemic. The settlements included cases brought by the Lanier Law Firm, Simmons Hanly Conroy, and Simon Greenstone Panatier PC. Mark Lanier, won a $4.7billion verdict against Johnson & Johnson in 2018 that was later cut to $2.1billion on appeal. The company has appealed it again. In this lawsuit Lanier argued that Johnson & Johnson officials knew internal tests showed asbestos, which researchers have linked to mesothelioma, tainted the powder, but failed to publicly disclose it for more than 40 years. Mesothelioma is tumor of the tissue that lines the lungs, stomach, heart, and other organs. It is caused by inhaled asbestos fibers. This settlement resolves almost all of Laniers ovarian cancer and mesothelioma cases against the company, sources say. The company also settled more than 75 mesothelioma cases brought by Simmons Hanly and a similar number of cases filed by Simon Greenstone. The decision comes as a lawsuit against the company will go to trial this month. Factory worker Rosalino Reyes III says he used the companys baby powder for about 50 years and was diagnosed with asbestos-linked cancer in 2019. He claims he contracted cancerous mesothelioma caused by inhaling asbetos from Johnson & Johnson products. Opening arguments in the trial in state court in Oakland will start via videoconference on October 31. Talcum powder is made from talc, a soft mineral that is widely used in personal care products to absorb moisture and for other products including paint and plastics. Most research has established no link or a weak one between ovarian cancer and using baby powder for feminine hygiene, and most major health groups have said talc is harmless. However, some smaller studies have found a small link and the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies genital use of talc as 'possibly carcinogenic'. Last year, J&J recalled approximately 33,000 bottles of baby powder in America after the US Food and Drug Administration said it found traces of asbestos in a bottle purchased online. Officials from the health company said they later tested the baby powder and found no asbestos in the product. Two 2018 cases, one in New Jersey and another in California, resulted in large judgement to plaintiffs who claimed J&J talc products caused their mesothelioma. A third verdict, in St Louis, Missouri, awarded 22 plaintiffs a total of $4.69 billion in damages. Modern architecture of Odeon cinema building in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, England, UK. (Photo by: Geography Photos/Universal Images Group via Getty Images) Odeon Cinemas has confirmed it plans to close some of its sites during weekdays, opening them only on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. A representative for Odeon tells Yahoo that around one quarter of its branches would be moving to weekend viewings only. The chain currently operates 100 cinemas and over 850 screens in the UK. The news follows the announcement by Cineworld that it would closing all of its UK sites temporarily from Thursday. The Odeon changes were announced to its Limitless customers via email over the weekend. The message told its monthly subscribers that the cinema chain would be temporarily reducing the opening hours of certain sites. Read more: Why 007 has endured as a movie mainstay and will again Odeon cites the ongoing delays to the release of many new films as a reason for reducing its opening hours. The announcement followed the delay of the James Bond film No Time to Die which was delayed on Friday from November to April 2021. Hi Lewis! We wanted to confirm that only some of our cinemas will be opening reduced hours as of October 9. Our Hereford cinema will remain open 7 days a week. Full details can be found on the cinema pages of our website. Thank you! ODEON (@ODEONCinemas) October 3, 2020 Cineworlds current troubles partially stem from the impact of the coronavirus outbreak, which forced it to shut sites across the UK and other key markets in March. Although sites reopened in July, and even earlier in other regions, social distancing rules and a reluctance from studios to release big-ticket films hampered audience figures. Read more: Vue looking at options after Bond film delay forces rival Cineworld to close On Monday, Cineworld said that, without these releases, it has been unable to provide UK and US audiences with the breadth of strong commercial films necessary for them to consider coming back to theatres against the backdrop of Covid-19. Story continues Watch: Cineworld closures to impact jobs Major studios, such as Disney, announced heavily-delayed schedules or even pulled some films from cinema release entirely, with Disney opting to release its live-action Mulan film on its own streaming platform instead. The decision to temporarily close of all of its 127 UK theatres is shocking but not surprising given the current climate, cinemagoers have said. Daniel Craig as James Bond in a still from No Time To Die.(Eon/Universal) Tom Robinson, 23, from Ackworth, West Yorkshire, told the PA news agency he thought people had remained cautious about attending the cinema. He said: Its a bit shocking. I didnt expect to hear it happening really, but I could see it with all the coronavirus. People are going to be a lot more wary going out into large places where people congregate like the cinema. Its not surprising but it feels surprising. (En espanol) ATLANTA (Oct. 5, 2020) Two members of the Carter Centers expert election team arrived in La Paz Saturday to continue in the field their analysis of the Bolivian electoral process, which the team has been carrying out remotely for two months. To minimize risks of COVID-19 contagion following international travel, the experts are now quarantining for 10 days, during which they will continue their assessment and engagement with relevant stakeholders via virtual meetings. Since July, four Carter Center experts have been analyzing key aspects of the Bolivian electoral process, including political, legal, and administrative aspects of the election during the COVID-19 pandemic. The team also is analyzing social media political advertising, including compliance with existing Bolivian regulations, and partnering with Chequea Bolivia, which is in process of certification to become a member of the International Fact-Checking Network, to assess online election-related disinformation. This assessment will be a key element of the Centers analysis. The Carter Center had originally planned to deploy a full-scale mission to Bolivia, but the medical and logistical challenges posed by COVID-19 led the Center to limit its effort to a smaller and more focused electoral expert team. Though the two experts will be in Bolivia for election day, the missions limited size and scope makes a thorough, nationwide assessment of the voting, counting, and tabulation processes impossible. Instead, the expert team will focus its analysis on several key parts of the electoral process, particularly the legal electoral framework, the effectiveness and transparency of electoral preparations, the campaign environment including freedom of the media respect for core participatory rights throughout the process, and the use of social media. The missions analysis is based on international human rights obligations and standards for democratic elections. The Carter Center will release a brief preliminary report a few days after the Oct. 18 election. Approximately two months after the conclusion of the electoral process, it will provide a more detailed report on key critical pre- and postelection issues, including possible appeals. The final report will include recommendations based on the experts analysis. Translation El Centro Carter envia un equipo de expertos electorales a Bolivia ### Contact: In Atlanta, Soyia Ellison, associate communications director In La Paz, Jose Antonio de Gabriel, head of mission The Carter Center Waging Peace. Fighting Disease. Building Hope. A not-for-profit, nongovernmental organization, The Carter Center has helped to improve life for people in over 80 countries by resolving conflicts; advancing democracy, human rights, and economic opportunity; preventing diseases; and improving mental health care. The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, in partnership with Emory University, to advance peace and health worldwide. As part of India's contribution to help "friendly neighbour" Myanmar in its fight against COVID-19, Army chief Gen. M M Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Monday handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. Gen. Naravane and Shringla are here on a two-day visit from Sunday to Myanmar with an aim to further expand ties in a range of areas including connectivity, defence and security. The Indian Army chief and the Foreign Secretary along with Ambassador of India to Myanmar, Saurabh Kumar, called on Suu Kyi at Naypyitaw on Monday during which they discussed important bilateral issues, the Indian embassy tweeted. "As part of India's contribution to help a friendly neighbour Myanmar fight against COVID-19", General Naravane and Shringla handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to Suu Kyi, it said in another tweet. The intravenous antiviral drug, Remdesivir, is used to treat COVID-19. US President Donald Trump, who tested positive for COVID-19 last week, is also being administered Remdesivir. The visit by Gen. Naravane and Shringla to Myanmar assumes significance as it comes in the midst of the Indian Army's bitter border standoff with the Chinese military in eastern Ladakh as well restrictions on foreign visits due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is Gen. Naravane's first visit to any foreign country after he took charge as the Chief of Army Staff on December 31 last year. Myanmar is one of India's strategic neighbours and shares a 1,640-km-long border with a number of northeastern states including militancy-hit Nagaland and Manipur. The visit by Gen. Naravane and Shringla came four days after the two countries carried out a detailed review of their ties in a wide range of areas at a virtual meeting held under the framework of India-Myanmar foreign office consultations. In the meeting, Shringla said India and Myanmar are working towards operationalising the Sittwe Port by the first quarter of next year and that the tendering process for 69 bridges proposed under the ambitious India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway will begin soon. Sittwe Port is part of the Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project which is being viewed as India's gateway to Southeast Asia. The port will connect Indias landlocked northeastern region with the Bay of Bengal through Mizoram. In his remarks, Shringla also said that Myanmars handing over of 22 Indian insurgents has been deeply appreciated by India and sends a strong message of "deterrence to inimical elements on both sides." India has been concerned over some militant groups from the North-East region taking shelter in Myanmar. The country has been assuring India that it would not allow any insurgent group to use its territory against India. In June 2015 the Indian Army had carried out an operation in areas near the Indo-Myanmar against the NSCN (K) militants, days after the ultras had killed 18 Army men in Manipur. The two countries have significantly ramped up defence and security cooperation in the last few years including in the maritime security sphere. India has been assisting Myanmar in developing border areas under an agreement inked in 2012 that provided for granting USD 5 million each year over a period of five years. This MoU has already been extended till 2022. India's development cooperation in Myanmar is estimated at USD 1.4 billion. The two countries are also expanding partnership in the area of energy cooperation. With investments of over USD 1.2 billion, Myanmar has the highest Indian investment in any country in South Asia, a source said. Recently, India approved an investment of over USD 120 million in the Shwe Oil and Gas project. (Image Credits: Twitter/@IndiainMyanmar) This story has not been edited by www.republicworld.com and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed The newly commissioned factory for Kasapreko Company Limited in the Ashanti region is expected to triple the current production level of Awake Purified Water, one of the product range of Kasaperko company Ltd. As part of its objectives, the company hopes to generate enough revenue to help increase its support to the National Cardiothoracic Centre of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. This was revealed by Marketing Manager of Kasapreko Company Ltd, Mr Evans Kwofie. He disclosed this when his outfit made a donation of Ghs 150,000 to the National Cardiothoracic Centre of the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. The donation derived out of profits made in the second and third quarters of 2020, adds up to a cumulative amount of Ghs1.4m since 2016. As part of its corporate social responsibility activities over the years, Awake Purified Drinking Water donates to the National Cardiothoracic Centre, through a project dubbed One4Life. The project aims to financially support the less privileged and disadvantaged who cannot afford medical care, including heart surgeries. Mr. Evans Kwofie noted that the staff and management of Kasapreko Company Ltd. believe strongly in giving back to society, adding that the donation could not have been possible without our Consumers, Distributors and Sellers of Awake Purified Drinking Water. "We've been doing this since 2016 and we've been consistent. No brand in Ghana has been able to represent its promise like Awake Purified Drinking Water," he said. "For now, I can confidently say that we have been able to donate Ghs 1.4 Million, which is unprecedented." "Over 83 patients have received support from monies we've given out since 2016, and there are a lot of people actually waiting to receive support from us. So we are here for a very big purpose; to add up to the Ghs1.4m.'' Executive Director of the Cardiothoracic Centre, Dr. Lawrence Sereboe, who received the cheque on behalf the Centre expressed gratitude to Awake Purified Drinking Water and Kasapreko Company Ltd. for sustaining their commitment to the centre. He also entreated corporate bodies and individuals to follow suit and support the centre. He further appealed to Kasapreko Company Ltd. to continue to donate more to the centre. Additionally, he urged the public to remain cautious in order to avoid contracting COVID-19. "COVID-19 has really caused a lot of problems, especially on people with heart diseases. Despite the decline in active cases, we must not lose sight of the virus. Let us all try to avoid testing positive by observing the protocols laid out." he concluded. Kasapreko Company Ltd. is today, the largest producer of carbonated soft drinks and alcohol in the country, and boasts of the most diverse product range for variant consumer preferences. Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Founders of small tech businesses can sometimes hit a wall generating enough profits to expand their companies. Some have found a solution by selling their companies to ESW Capital LLC, an investment firm that is stocking a Netflix-like subscription service with business-to-business software. ESW, short for enterprise software, is controlled by Texas billionaire Joseph Liemandt. Over the past couple of decades, the firm has bought more than 100 companies in deal sizes ranging from less than a million dollars to at least $460 million. ESW aims for at least 30 more acquisitions next year as the big companies that are its target customers rely ever more heavily on technology to get through the coronavirus pandemic. Austin, Texas-based ESW has the infrastructuremanagers, lawyers, recruiters, developers and sales professionalsthat small companies struggle to afford. It also has the cash to allow early investors and founders to move to the next creative challenge. View Full Image Source: Court documents Andrew Einhorn co-founded media-intelligence company Synoptos in 2014 and sold the Virginia-based provider of real-time reputation-management software to ESW last year for an undisclosed sum. Synoptos had been growing steadily but its founders wanted it to expand faster, either by raising venture capital in exchange for partial ownership or by selling the company outright to a large company like ESW, he said. ESW, Mr. Einhorn said, offered founder-friendly" terms and, important for him, allowed Synoptos customers to tap into other software products as part of the subscription service. He is now chief executive of LevelFields Inc., a financial-technology startup that hasnt come to market yet, and says he has no regrets about selling to ESW. Instead of buying and selling companies the way private-equity firms do, ESW operates the software businesses it buys, increasingly through its Aurea Inc. unit. View Full Image Source: Court documents Technology created by the small businesses ESW has bought is often collected in a library of software tools for sales and marketing, collaboration and integration, and other business essentials. ESW sells access to the collected offerings under a subscription model. The deal team works with venture capitalists and sometimes directly with founders who have hung on to equity in their software startups through the rounds of early investments, product creation and customer capture, only to stall when it came time to scale the business. An early technology pioneer, Mr. Liemandt dropped out of Stanford University to co-found Trilogy, which sold software to large companies. Trilogy boomed in the 1990s, retracted when the technology bubble burst in 2001, and is now part of ESW. Mr. Liemandt couldnt be reached for comment. ESW occasionally invests in larger technology companies such as Canada-based Optiva Inc. In other cases, the firm acts as a see-you-in-court patent owner, ready to battle over its rights to valuable technology. Besides the field of companies backed by venture capitalists looking to cash out, ESWs hunting grounds also include smaller, ailing software businesses destined for bankruptcy court. Since 2015, ESW has sealed deals for about 10 bankrupt companies, including at least three in 2020, a Wall Street Journal review of court records found. Because bankruptcy deals are public, they offer a view of privately held ESWs distinctive buying style. ESW doesnt just buy up bankrupt businesses assets, software and patents. It acquires the entire companyincluding the potential for tax breaks. The big losses that pushed the companies into bankruptcy translate into tax-break opportunities once ESW owns the business and starts generating profits. Losses usually stack up in technology companies early years as they plow millions into product creation. Once a startup starts making money, it can use net operating losses recorded earlier to offset income on tax returns. Bankrupt companies are often sold for parts in chapter 11, their tax breaks wasted. ESWs deals typically are designed to preserve net operating losses, essentially using the previous CEOs losses to reduce the next CEOs taxes. Take ESWs recent deal for Security First Corp. The California-based cybersecurity software company filed for bankruptcy in August, having burned through at least $140 million in debt and equity financing since its 2002 founding. In the two years before filing for bankruptcy, Security First had recorded just $92,000 in revenue. It had only three employees and no office. But it did have net operating losses that could eventually translate into more than $150 million in tax breaks. ESW has offered at least $6 million for Security First. Closing the deal will start the clock running on ESWs ability to use Security Firsts potential tax breaks, which expire over time. It will have to take the company from almost no sales to sizable profits, and while it might never generate enough income to use up the entire $150 million in potential tax breaks, it will be able to avoid paying tax on the profits it does make, at least for a while. One advantage of running a private empire like Mr. Liemandts is that if his strategy succeeds, nobody knows but the Internal Revenue Service. The exception would be if Security First landed back in bankruptcy court, opening its books to inspection. That has hardly ever happened to businesses ESW has acquired, according to a person familiar with the company. Write to Becky Yerak at becky.yerak@wsj.com and Peg Brickley at peg.brickley@wsj.com Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. The Overlook Film Festival is named for the lodge in The Shining and was initially held at the Oregon hotel used as a shooting location for some of the film. The festival relocated to New Orleans because of the citys abundance of ghost and vampire stories. This year, Overlook joined forces with four other horror festivals to create Nightstream. An international slate of horror movies and events stream online Oct.8-11, and movies will be available through Oct. 14. Each night will feature an online happy hour with guests such as Elijah Wood, actor and founder of SpectreVision. The opening night film is director Aneesh Chagantys Run, about an isolated wheelchair-bound teenager whos link to the outside world is her mother. Closing night brings Mandibles, a comic project from French director Quentin Dupieux, creator of Rubber and Deerskin. Indonesian director Timo Tjahjanto presents his popular possession film, May the Devil Take You Too. There are more than 35 feature films, including psychological thrillers, gore fests, surreal and supernatural projects, films made with puppets, and more. Events include a celebration of the 20th anniversary of the bloody American Psycho, a discussion of horror comics, Peaches Christ discussing horror camp, a podcast about LGBTQ horror films, a horror trivia stream, and more. Visit nightstream.org for schedule and details. NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In a year unlike any other, the professional advisors at the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG) Orange County put on an awards event like no other in celebrating the top middle market companies in the OC and Inland Empire. The event, marking the 25th anniversary of the prestigious ACG Awards competition, was streamed this year to ensure the health and safety of the Finalist companies, the sponsors, and the hundreds of corporate executives and their advisors who normally gather in person. The winners in each of 10 categories were: Startup Pledge Medical Emerging Growth Deluxe Auto Carriers Reinventing Young Nails Green/Sustainability Regenesis Bioremediation Innovation Tyvak Nano-Satellite Systems Corporate Resonsibility Edwards Lifesciences Global 5.11 Tactical Founders Pacific Dental Services Sustained Growth Ware Malcomb Spotlight Kofax Featuring the theme, "True Excellence is Timeless," the awards showcase highlighted the achievements of companies operating in the middle market space. More than 140 nominees were submitted for the competition, which kicked off last fall. A total of 30 Finalists ultimately emerged from interviews, before then moving on to a final round of judging led by top academic and business professionals from the region. ACG Orange County Board President Andrea Casaw saluted the 30 honorees, praising their innovation and intrepid spirit in fighting through their individual market challenges as well as those caused by the global pandemic."Their stories inspire and show us what's possible when you combine smart strategy, outstanding execution, and a never-give-up attitude." For more information on the ACG Corporate Awards or other programs offered through ACG Orange County, please contact Executive Director Richard Meyers at [email protected]. About ACG Orange County The Association for Corporate Growth - Orange County chapter is part of a global organization that includes 60 chapters involved in corporate growth, corporate development, and mergers and acquisitions. ACG's nearly 15,000 members include professionals from private equity firms, corporations and lenders that invest in middle-market companies, as well as law, accounting, investment banking and other firms that provide advisory services. CONTACT: Michael Shepherd (949)933-4143 [email protected] SOURCE Association for Corporate Growth Orange County Salesswiss.com scored 40 Social Media Impact. Social Media Impact score is a measure of how much a site is popular on social networks. 2/5.0 Stars by Social Team This CoolSocial report was updated on 23 Dec 2012, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared the salesswiss homepage on Twitter + the total number of salesswiss followers (if salesswiss has a Twitter account). The total number of people who shared the salesswiss homepage on Delicious. The total number of people who shared the salesswiss homepage on StumbleUpon. The total number of people who shared the salesswiss homepage on Google Plus by a google +1 button. 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At 1pm on Monday, Waverley Council said in a statement that Bondi beach was nearing capacity and warned if more people came, access would be restricted. If you havent left for the beach yet, please rethink your trip and check on capacity later in the day, Waverley Council said. The council also reminded people that gatherings are limited to 20 people while at the beach, as per the current coronavirus Public Health Order. Bondi beach almost restricted access to beachgoers on Monday, after people swarmed to the beach. Source: Waverley Council We also encourage people to continue to social distance by 1.5 metres (or a towel-length apart) unless from the same household, the statement said. We do not like having to restrict access to the beach, so as a reminder to everyone if beach access is closed or the sand looks busy, please come back another time or use that time to visit our wonderful cafes and other local businesses. Yahoo News Australia understands people along the beach were adhering to the towel length apart distancing. A photo shared earlier today by Waverley Council showed people spacing out along the beach and the post asked for revellers to head to the middle of the sand, as the north end of the beach was getting busy. Waverley Council also looks after Bronte and Tamarama beaches. Waverley Council was urging people to spread out on Bondi Beach on Monday, as people flocked to the coast. Source: Waverley Council As the sun was dipping late Monday afternoon, the mayor of Waverley, Paula Masselos, thanked the public for ensuring they were adequately distanced. This long weekend has really been a tester for this summer, as we adjust to our new normal of managing numbers, watching social distancing and group sizes, he said. We did nearly reach capacity at Bondi Beach today, but thankfully people got our message of coming back another time. At no point did we need to restrict access to the sand. It wasnt just Waverley Council which had to issue warnings on the Labour Day public holiday. Randwick Council also advised people to make alternate plans as the crowds grew. Story continues Many of our beaches are approaching capacity, so please make alternate plans if you're heading to our coastline, the council wrote on Facebook at around 2pm on Monday. If you're already in the area, enjoy the warm weather and the views from our beachside parks and reserves, or support local businesses by visiting stores in our town centres. Please remember to follow social distancing guidelines. JUST IN: Waverley Council and Randwick Council have issued warnings as Sydneysiders pile on to beaches for the public holiday. Authorities say many beaches are nearing capacity and closures may be implemented if crowds continue to build. #9News pic.twitter.com/zjzNgSYNxe 9News Sydney (@9NewsSyd) October 5, 2020 At 12pm today, The Sutherland Shire announced beaches in Cronulla were nearing capacity and then at 2pm, beaches carparks were full. Sutherland Shire Council Public Safety and Lifeguards personnel are currently working with NSW Police to manage crowd numbers on North Cronulla Beach and ensure that social distancing is maintained, a Sutherland Shire spokesperson said in a statement to Yahoo News Australia. Those intending to visit beaches within the Sutherland Shire are encouraged to explore other areas of the Bate Bay coastline that are currently less crowded, or delay their visit until crowd numbers subside. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and download the Yahoo News app from the App Store or Google Play. Digital payments giant Paytm has launched its own mini app store which will allow Indian app developers take their applications to the populace. This is seen as the digital payment provider's latest move to counter Google's monopoly in the app store space. Mini apps are custom-built mobile websites that offer users an app-like experience without having to download them, thereby helping users save their data and memory. The store launch follows the Paytm app being temporarily removed from Google's Play Store on September 18 for breaching its gambling policies. Meanwhile, Paytm said the store will also provide listing and distribution of these mini-apps within the app at no charge. Also Read: Paytm app, Paytm First Games removed from Play Store on policy violations Developers will be able to offer users a choice of Paytm Wallet, UPI, Paytm Payments Bank, card payments, and net banking. Over 300 apps, comprising Domino's Pizza, NoBroker, Decathlon, FreshMenu, Netmeds, Rapido, Ola, and 1MG have joined the Paytm app store, the company said. The launch of the app store is also seen as a direct fallout of Google mandating that developers listed on its Play Store comply with its payment system policy and use its billing service. Google had earlier said that it is going to enforce Play Store tax on over 3 per cent of apps for not abiding by its payment system policy. The company demanded that the apps selling digital items without complying follow the rules within a year. Also Read: Google to impose Play Store tax on 3% of payment non-compliant apps Google's rebuttal came in its bid to refute criticism that it selectively imposes 30 per cent mobile app store tax. Applications sold on the tech leaders' stores are required to use their payment systems so that they can collect a portion of sales, which developers describe as a tax. Paytm claims to have over 50 million monthly active users. It also competes with Google's payments app, Google Pay, in India. Dehradun: In fresh action against rebel candidates ahead of February 15 Uttarakhand polls, the BJP has expelled 33 more leaders and workers who were either contesting against partys official nominees as Independents or indulging in other anti-party activities. 33 more leaders and workers were expelled for anti-party activities from the party for six years yesterday on the directive of Pradesh BJP president Ajay Bhatt, Pradesh party general secretary Naresh Bansal said. These expulsions are in addition to the 18 expelled immediately after they refused to withdraw from the fray for the Assembly polls on the last day for withdrawal of nominations on February 1, he said. After tickets were finalised by the party late last month fielding nearly all Congress turncoats, its disappointed cadres especially ticket aspirants among them entered the fray as Independents against official party nominees. Bhatt has described the rebels as over-ambitious people and said their exit will not impact the saffron partys prospects in the assembly election. He had downplayed claims of discontent among party leaders over allocation of tickets to Congress rebels who joined the BJP and asserted that Modi wave will be one of the important factors in the polls in Uttarakhand where the party is fighting the election on development agenda. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. The 7 December 2020 general election is a double-track poll meant to retain President Nana Akufo-Addo and also retire former President John Mahama for good, Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has told supporters of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP). At the launch of the NPPs Bono-East Youth Wing campaign in Techiman on Sunday, 4 October 2020, Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu said the party must double 2016s victory margin from one million votes to two million so as to give the biggest opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), no option than to retire its flagbearer Mr Mahama for good. Just recently, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo said the former President has proven, over time, to be inconsistent, as he flip-flops on issues of national development. Speaking at Bibiani at the end of his 3-day tour of the Western-North Region on Saturday, 26 September 2020, President Akufo-Addo stated that it is important for the credibility of the countrys public discourse that persons in the countrys public space are seen to be consistent in their views and advocacy. According to President Akufo-Addo, when the Bill governing the establishment of the National Health Insurance Scheme were being passed in 2003, I was in Parliament. I witnessed the NDC MPs, which included Mahama, kicking against it by staging a walkout. When President Kufuor successfully implemented it, Mahama and Mills said they would implement a one-time payment of the National Health Insurance Scheme. But for eight years, eight solid years, that promise never became a reality, Mr Akufo-Addo said. Today, the President noted, Mr Mahama says he is bringing free primary healthcare if voted for. Can we trust him? he asked the crowd. Did he fulfill his promises for which reason we should believe that he would fulfil this? No, we cannot trust him, the President insisted. Touching on the cancellation of allowances for teacher and nurse trainees, the President noted that students and, indeed, all well-meaning Ghanaians, asked the former President to restore the allowances to no avail. We begged him to restore them but he was adamant to the extent that he said if that would mean he losing the 2016 elections, so be it. I restored the teacher and nurse training allowances, and now he has changed his tongue again. He says he will now continue to pay teacher and nurse training allowances! Can we trust him? No way!, President Akufo-Addo stressed. On the Zongo Development Fund, which, in the view of the President, is bringing development to the people in Zongo communities, Nana Akufo-Addo recounted how former President Mahama said the use of the Zongo Development Fund for the provision of ICT facilities and AstroTurf pitches represented a misappropriation of funds, only for the former President to turn around and promise the construction of mortuaries and legalising Okada for residents in Zongo communities. On Free Senior High School policy, the President recalled how Mr Mahama stated that the pledge by the NPP to provide Free SHS was a mere political gimmick and just lies, as the implementation of the policy can only happen in 20 years. Two years ago, he said if you had GHS2 billion, you shouldnt be spending it all on Free SHS. Today, he says that if he is given the mantle of leadership, he will continue with the implementation of Free SHS. Can we trust him on this? No!, President Akufo-Addo continued. The President, thus, asked Mr Mahama: You have fought the Free Senior High School all this while; what has happened? What changed your mind about the Free SHS? The Ghanaian people deserve to know. Why have you changed your mind about the Free Senior High School policy? He is inconsistent and a flip-flop; a trait not seen in Akufo-Addo. The President, therefore, asked residents of Western-North to continue to have trust and confidence in him, adding: I will always be truthful to you, and work for the unity, progress, prosperity and development of our nation. With the NPP having only three out of the nine seats in the Western-North Region, the President expressed the hope that the 2020 elections will see a change in fortunes for the NPP. I pray that massive changes occur this time around for all of you to be part of the elephant family. You will never regret being a part of the NPP. I urge you to vote Four More for Nana, he said, and appealed to the constituents of the Bibiani to vote massively for the NPPs parliamentary candidate, Mr Alfred Obeng. Source: graphic.com.gh Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video File image Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has said Indian exports will automatically increase if the products are "good and competitively priced" and that products are entrepreneurs should not think that subsidies are the "only solution". He asserted that the country has the capability to become a global player in many sectors, and underscored the need for bolstering manufacturing. Addressing a webinar organised by the EXIM Bank on Saturday, Goyal said sectors having the potential to become globally competitive needed to be identified. "There is no need to segregate between products for exports and domestic sector. We require quality, good technology and scale, though some support may be needed at times," he said. Underscoring the need for "bolder ideas" for signing Free Trade Agreements (FTA), the minister said India could leverage the lower labour cost to promote its products. "Can we think of some smart options, what we need to, on FTAs? I heard the last speaker before I came in talked about FTAs with Chile and some African countries. Can your team come out with the bold idea? What an FTA with US or Europe or UK will be like? We need large market also. "We need to penetrate the developed world where we can leverage on the lower labour cost or our skills. When we are going to try and export to Africa and Chile, we'll be competing with people who are already very low-cost & low quality. You want to relegate the nation to that level? I don't think so," he said. India can surely be part of the global supply chain and also a reliable partner, Goyal said, adding that "building capabilities, scale and good manufacturing practices are the need of the hour". EXIM Bank Managing Director David Rasquinha said India's manufacturing and export sectors have to become globally competitive. He said the EXIM Bank has commissioned a study on the policy constraints faced by some sectors like textiles, apparel, automobile, electronics and pharmaceuticals. Karnataka Primary and Secondary Education Minister S Suresh Kumar on Monday said he has quarantined himself at home after testing positive for coronavirus. "I will be home quarantined for a few days on the advice of doctors after testing positive for COVID-19.There is no panic as there are no symptoms," the minister tweeted. He was among those ministers who had attended the recent Assembly session. Many others who had attended the session tested positive including Deputy Chief Minister Govind Karjol, senior Congress leaders H K Patil and Dinesh Gundu Rao. Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa, another Deputy Chief Minister Dr C N Ashwath Narayan, former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Congress state chief D K Shivakumar were among those who were found positive for coronavirus earlier and recovered. Minister of State for Railways Suresh Angadi (Belagavi MP), BJP Rajya Sabha member Ashok Gasti and Basavakalyan Congress MLA B Narayan Rao had recently succumbed to the coronavirus infection. A few former public representatives too died due to COVID-19 in Karnataka. CHICAGO, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 6-8, 2020, The University of Chicago will gather leading scholars and high-ranking political decision-makers from around the globe at The 2020 Pearson Global Forum. Hosted by the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy's Pearson Institute for the Study and Resolution of Global Conflicts, the virtual conference will discuss the causes and consequences of conflict, including how the Covid-19 pandemic and climate change are affecting international conflicts, and develop strategies to maximize the impact for preventing and resolving violent conflicts and informing policy. A new UChicago Harris/AP-NORC Poll of American adults released in conjunction with the Global Forum found stark differences between Democrats and Republicans about the coronavirus situation, the development of a vaccine, the role Russia had in the 2016 election, and threats to the upcoming 2020 election. Of note: Coronavirus vaccine : While 57% intend to get a vaccine if it becomes available, just 46% would get one developed outside the US. Republicans are more likely than Democrats and independents to say the US should keep any vaccine for itself, even if that means that fewer around the world get vaccinated (70% vs. 52% vs. 41%). Click here for more information. : While 57% intend to get a vaccine if it becomes available, just 46% would get one developed outside the US. Republicans are more likely than Democrats and independents to say the US should keep any vaccine for itself, even if that means that fewer around the world get vaccinated (70% vs. 52% vs. 41%). Click here for more information. Relationship with Russia : Americans are significantly more likely to disapprove than approve of how President Trump is handling Russia , and a majority say ties should be weakened with Russia . And a majority of Americans (59%) are extremely or very concerned about foreign governments interfering in the upcoming presidential election. More information is available here. Americans are significantly more likely to disapprove than approve of how President Trump is handling , and a majority say ties should be weakened with . And a majority of Americans (59%) are extremely or very concerned about foreign governments interfering in the upcoming presidential election. More information is available here. War in Afghanistan : 10% support increasing the number of US troops in Afghanistan when there is no mention of casualties, but just 3% say the same if there is a mention of the 2,2000 US troop deaths in the country. "The climate of conflict is rapidly shifting around the world while at the same time America becomes increasingly polarized," said James Robinson, Institute Director, The Pearson Institute. "As the international community continues to deal with dozens of active conflicts, and the quickly shifting relationships between and among nations, it is essential to find paths towards resolution, peace, and stability. The Forum provides a platform to influence solutions, strategies, and policies for reducing and mitigating conflict to achieve a more peaceful world." Highlights of the 2020 Pearson Forum, entitled "The Conflict of Climate," include: October 6 - Focus on Global Water and Migration Issues . Featured speakers: James A. Robinson, Institute Director, The Pearson Institute; Alice Hill , Senior Fellow for Energy and the Environment, Council on Foreign Relations; and Elizabeth Hume , Vice President, Alliance for Peacebuilding. . Featured speakers: James A. Robinson, Institute Director, The Pearson Institute; , Senior Fellow for Energy and the Environment, Council on Foreign Relations; and , Vice President, Alliance for Peacebuilding. October 7 - Focus on Covid-19/Other Global Pandemics, Haiti , and Afghanistan . Featured speakers: Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad , U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation; Paul Farmer , Chief Strategist and Co-Founder, Partners In Health, Harvard University ; and Clare Lockhart , Director and Co-Founder, Institute for State Effectiveness. . Featured speakers: Ambassador , U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation; , Chief Strategist and Co-Founder, Partners In Health, ; and , Director and Co-Founder, Institute for State Effectiveness. October 8 - Focus on Conflict Negotiations. Featured speakers: Wendy Sherman , Professor of Practice and Director, Center for Public Leadership, Harvard Kennedy School; Former Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, U.S. Department of State; and Steven E. Miller , Director, International Security Program, Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard Kennedy School . The full conference agenda is available here. To view a video overview, click here. The Forum is free of charge. Click here to gain access. In 2015, the University of Chicago announced the creation of The Pearson Institute for the Study and Resolution of Global Conflicts at the Harris School of Public Policy, the first of its kind research institute dedicated to applying rigorous, evidence-based inquiry to the issues of peace and conflict. Established through a grant from The Thomas L. Pearson and The Pearson Family Members Foundation, and led by Institute Director James Robinson, co-author of The Narrow Corridor and Why Nations Fail, the Institute seeks to understand the complex causes and consequences of conflict by mobilizing the best minds and the most innovative tools and technology to drive new breakthroughs and understanding that informs policy and leads to a world more at peace. 2020 marks the third consecutive year of the Pearson Global Forum. SOURCE The University of Chicago Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 19:14:49|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close COLOMBO, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The number of COVID-19 patients in Sri Lanka rose to 3,471 on Monday after authorities detected a new cluster in Minuwangoda, the outskirts of capital Colombo, the health ministry said. A 39-year-old apparel factory worker and her 16-year-old daughter tested positive for the virus on Sunday, making it the first cases to be detected within the society after two months. Following this detection, over 900 people were taken into quarantine, among whom 69 tested positive for the virus on Monday, the health ministry said. According to the government, 1,400 employees working at the apparel factory have received COVID-19 tests, while on Monday, 2,000 apparel workers, their close associates, and school children from the Minuwangoda area were tested. Curfew was imposed in parts of the Gampaha district and the police warned that anyone defying the curfew would be arrested. Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi said in a statement that strict health guidelines would be re-imposed in all parts of the country such as wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and keeping hands sanitized. Wanniarachchi added that following the latest detection among the public, people were urged to stay at home as much as possible and avoid large social gatherings. Schools nationwide were also closed indefinitely from Monday, the education ministry said. Sri Lanka has recorded 13 deaths from the virus. Enditem Migrants wait behind a barrier at the border between Austria and Germany in Achleiten, Austria, Thursday, Oct. 29, 2015. Thousands of people are trying to reach central and northern Europe via the Balkans but often have to wait for days. (AP Photo/Kerstin Joensson) - Kerstin Joensson/AP The number of refugees and asylum-seekers living in Germany has fallen for the first time in nine years, according to newly released government figures. At the end of June, there were 1.77m refugees and asylum-seekers were living in Germany 62,000 fewer than at the end of last year. They include 1.31m recognised refugees who have been granted full asylum, and 450,000 asylum-seekers whose cases are being decided or who have been given temporary permission to stay. Germany saw an influx of more than 1.1m asylum-seekers in 2015 under Angela Merkels controversial open-door asylum policy. After Hungary and a number of other countries began turning migrants away, Mrs Merkel announced Germany would take them amid fears of a humanitarian crisis. Germanys refugee population had in fact already been rising since 2011, when there were 400,000. It continued to rise in the years following 2015s influx, albeit at a slower rate. epa04923489 German Chancellor Angela Merkel (R) has a selfie taken with a refugee during a visit to a refugee reception centre in Berlin, Germany, 10 September 2015. Germany can deal with the arrival of hundreds of thousands of refugees without cutting social welfare benefits or raise taxes, Vice Chancellor Sigmar Gabriel said on 10 September, during a debate in parliament on next year's budget. Germany expects 800,000 asylum seekers this year, four times more than last year and more than any other country in the European Union, which is split on how to deal with the biggest refugee crisis since World War II. EPA/BERND VON JUTRCZENKA - BERND VON JUTRCZENKA/DPA The fall in numbers this year is mainly down to refugees having their asylum revoked because they chose to return to their homes countries or were no longer in danger, according to the interior ministry. It also includes asylum-seekers whose temporary permission to stay in Germany has expired or been withdrawn. A "significant number" of those affected have already left Germany, the ministry said. The new figures emerged in a written answer to a parliamentary question from the opposition Left Party, which responded by accusing Mrs Merkels government of not doing enough to help refugees.. We have space, the figures show it. Yet at the same time, tens of thousands of people seeking protection are stuck in inhumane conditions in Europes initial reception states, Ulla Jelpke, a Left Party MP, told Neue Osnabrucker Zeitung newspaper. As a rich country in the heart of Europe, Germany must not shirk its responsibility by hiding behind barbed wires and hotspot camps. Germany announced last month that it will take in 1,500 refugees from camps in Greece in the wake of the fires which devastated Moria camp on Lesbos. But opposition parties have dismissed it as a token gesture that does not go far enough. The polygamist Brown family, headed by patriarch Kody Brown and his four wives, is best known (of course) for their appearances on TLCs Sister Wives. Kodys wives especially his first wife, Meri Brown, and third wife, Christine Brown have parlayed their popularity on reality TV to large followings on social media and successful ventures into multi-level marketing companies, or MLMs. MLMs, such as Younique and LIV (favored by Christine), as well as LuLaRoe (favored by Meri), are highly controversial. Over the years, many people have accused multi-level marketing companies of being little more than predatory pyramid schemes, designed to benefit only a small percentage of top earners and possibly hurt those below them financially. After Christines recent Instagram post promoting products from one such company, several Sister Wives fans chimed in with criticism against the mom of six for choosing to partner with this kind of brand. Robyn Brown, Meri Brown, Kody Brown, Christine Brown and Janelle Brown | Ethan Miller/Getty Images Christine posted a selfie during her recent cross-country travels Christine recently shared snapshots of her visit to New Jersey to visit her sister, Wendy Allred, with her daughters Ysabel Brown and Gwendlyn Brown. The Sister Wives star who now lives in Flagstaff, Arizona, with most of the Brown family posted a selfie from the trip, complete with face mask due to COVID-19 precautions, about a day at Panera Bread with some of her kids. In her Instagram caption, Kodys third wife promoted Younique products so fans could get the long, dark lashes she sported in the photo. We are OUTSIDE @panerabread using their WiFi so @ysabelpaigebrown can do school while were in New Jersey! Christine wrote on Instagram. ALSO!! these lashes are only visible because of #younique EPIC TWISTED MASCARA! By the way, its FREE with orders over $60! She concluded the post with a link to the sale. RELATED: Sister Wives: Fans Criticize Christine Brown For Her COVID-19 Choices Fans criticized Christine for promoting MLM companies on her Instagram While many Sister Wives fans focused on Christines trip to visit her sister, sharing recommendations for where they should go while they were in New Jersey, others zeroed in on Christines latest business venture. Please stop with the MLMs, one Instagram user wrote in response to Christines photo. Many other fans agreed, writing, Hard pass on Younique and any other predatory MLM. Some Instagram users argued that the Sister Wives star shouldnt be promoting companies that often harmed women who had less of a following and built-in audience. MLMs are harmful to women, 99% dont make money, one argued. I hope Christine sells products to her followers and people enjoy them but most dont have the followers to support the business model. MLMs do hurt people, yet another Sister Wives fan argued. They take advantage of people and put them in massive debtThere are better ways for her to make money. Some critics wondered why Christine and some of Kodys other wives, especially Meri, focused so much on MLMs as a way to make money outside the show. A few Sister Wives fans pointed out that Christines interest in cooking, baking, interior design, and parenting could be the foundation for a profitable lifestyle blog, cookbook, or targeted ads on social media for kitchenware or home goods. Many viewers wondered why Kodys third wife seemed so committed to this business structure instead. Looks like shes juggling 3 different ones now! one of Christines Instagram followers wrote. I really think that some people are almost addicted to these companies! All the products she sells are from pyramid schemes, another agreed. RELATED: Sister Wives: Christine Browns Daughter Says Shes Too Selfish for Polygamy Others defended the Sister Wives stars choices While Kodys third wife received a decent amount of backlash for her ongoing participation in MLM companies, other Sister Wives fans adamantly defended the 48-year-old. Several of Christines followers told critics that they should, quite frankly, mind their own business when it came to money. Its her page and you dont have to follow or even buy, one of her supporters retorted after one wave of criticism on Instagram. Honestly, how does someone doing an MLM affect YOU? It doesnt, another argued. So how about quit with the negative comments. Instead, how about raise someone up, support them, and love them even if you dont agree with them. Apparently Christine likes these products, an Instagram user agreed. You dont need to order from her. Respect her liberty to sell what she wants. Other Sister Wives fans simply raved about the beauty products Christine was promoting, saying they were well worth considering. Haters. Just leave. I love Christine and Younique products! one supporter exclaimed. Another commented, People can say what they want, but the bottom line is that the mascara is fantastic! RELATED: Sister Wives: Mariah Browns Fiancee Defends Her On Meri Browns Instagram After Homophobic Comments The Browns possible financial issues may be a factor Sister Wives fans have noted that the Brown family has come to rely on multi-level marketing promotions far more often over the years, especially between seasons of Sister Wives on TLC. Some have attributed the shift to the Browns financial issues. Kody and his four wives have never been immune to financial struggle, despite their outwardly lavish lifestyles. Members of the Brown family have declared bankruptcy several times over the years. On the most recent season of Sister Wives, Christine told TLC producers the family was drowning in debt due to their expensive moving to Flagstaff. Whats more, at least according to Christine, Ysabels scoliosis surgery cost upwards of $50,000 out of pocket. The mom of six asked Sister Wives fans to consider purchasing more items from her LuLaRoe sale at one point, saying that she needed to raise the money to pay for her daughters procedure. Around that item, Kodys second wife, Janelle Brown, joined Cameo to give paid shoutouts to fans. Meri, too, joined in on the family fundraising efforts by selling her own used clothing alongside her usual LuLaRoe sales. The accelerated efforts to raise money made some fans wonder if the Brown family was struggling with money more than ever. On the Frontline Against China, the US Coast Guard Is Taking on Missions the US Navy Can't Do Competition with China has drawn more Pentagon resources to the Pacific, but the most visible U.S. military presence there... NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Finding Success in an Age of Crisis, the China Institute Executive Summit (October 13-15) will put forward new strategies for U.S. and Chinese businesses to navigate current challenges. As America gears up for a pivotal election, leading American and Chinese decision-makers will come together over three consecutive mornings to map out business strategies at a time when relations between the two countries have become increasingly fraught. The summit will demystify new economic policies and opportunities and explore how business can create a new path forward for US-China engagement. Keynote speakers include: Guangyao Zh u , State Counsellor, China ; Former Vice Minister Finance , State Counsellor, ; Former Vice Minister Finance Rick Snyder , former Michigan Governor , former Governor Christopher Hui , Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Hong Kong SAR , Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Hong Kong SAR Huiyao WANG , President, Center for China and Globalization , President, Center for and Globalization Kai-Fu Lee , Founder, Sinovation , Founder, Sinovation Paul Haenle , Director, Carnegie-Tsinghua Center , Director, Carnegie-Tsinghua Center Weijian SHAN, CEO, PAG Group "At this critical moment in the U.S.-China relationship, we are proud to convene such an important program. This is a truly exceptional group of business experts and thought leaders who will come together to provide both needed context and pragmatic strategies required to re-start the US-China dialogue," said James Heimowitz, President of China Institute. Additional speakers include: Craig Allen, President, U.S.-China Business Council; Anla Cheng, Founder/CEO, SupChina; Pin NI, President, Wanxiang America; Ambassador Stapleton Roy; Susan Shirk, Chair, 21st Century China Center; Francis Zoe, Partner White & Case; Scott Kronick, CEO, Ogilvy & Mather Asia; and many others. Proceeds from the Executive Summit benefit China Institute, the oldest independent, non-profit organization in America to focus exclusively on China. More information, including additional speakers and daily agendas: https://www.chinainstitute.org/center-for-business/executive-summit-2020 About China Institute China Institute advances a deeper understanding of China through programs in education, culture, art and business. China Institute is the go-to resource on China from ancient art to today's business landscape and its rapidly shifting culture. Its programs, school and gallery exhibitions bring to life the depth, complexity and dynamism of China. Founded in 1926 by Chinese reformers Hu Shi and K.P. Wen and educators Paul Monroe and John Dewey, China Institute is the oldest independent, non-profit organization in America to focus exclusively on China. Contact: Jeremy Willinger [email protected] SOURCE China Institute in America Related Links http://www.chinainstitute.org President Trumps national security adviser said on Sunday that he had warned his Russian counterpart last week that there would be absolutely no tolerance for any interference in the November election, but did not mention that American intelligence officials and a range of private firms had said they already saw evidence of Russian influence operations. The adviser, Robert C. OBrien, said on CBSs Face the Nation that he had delivered the warning during a meeting in Geneva on Friday with Nikolai Patrushev, the secretary of Russias Security Council. Mr. OBrien did not disclose what else was discussed, but the meeting comes as the administration is racing a deadline to decide whether to extend the New START nuclear arms control treaty and as it faces pressure to act against Moscow after the poisoning of Aleksei Navalny, the Russian opposition leader. One of the reasons I went to meet with General Patrushev is to let him know that there would be absolutely no tolerance for any interference with our Election Day, with our voting, with the vote tallies, and demanded that that Russia not engage in that sort of thing, he said, failing to mention the key way Russia had interfered, with a sophisticated disinformation campaign. The Russians have committed to doing so, he said. And so, look, its Russia. So, as President Reagan said and as President Trump often says, its trust, but verify. A university student has been given a community order and no jail time after repeatedly having sex with a 15-year-old girl and sending her 'sexually aggressive' messages. Alan Yuen, from Melbourne, was about to turn 20 when he had sex with the Year 9 student on multiple occasions between October and December last year. Yuen first slept with the 'sad and vulnerable' girl after he snuck through a window at her home at 2am. Their relationship was discovered after sexually explicit messages between them were found on her school laptop. Yuen, a Monash University student, pleaded guilty to the sexual penetration of a child under 16 and was sentenced to a three-year community corrections order at the County Court. A 20-year-old man has avoided jail after sneaking into a 15-year-old's home and having sex with her (stock image) The student was first questioned by workers from the Department of Health and Human Services after the conversations were discovered, the Herald Sun reported. The prosecution described the messages between the pair as 'sexually aggressive'. During another secret encounter, the pair had sex in the back of Yuen's car late at night. Yuen, who was arrested on December 5, said the teenager 'didn't seem like a child' and told the court she had already had sex. He handed his phone over to police who discovered the student once had asked if Yuen liked girls in school uniforms. Yuen replied and joked if she would use his answer as evidence for his court hearings. Judge Rosemary Carlin said while there was no sign Yuen pressured the girl, there was a significant difference in their ages. 'Sexually aggressive' messages between the pair were discovered on the girl's school laptop (stock image) 'You were at very different stages of your life,' she said. Eight character references for Yuen were given to the court and it was acknowledged he was remorseful and had no criminal history. Along with his corrections order, Yuen will have to complete 350 hours of community service and Judge Carlin did not put him on the sex offenders register. Judge Carlin found there was no risk of him reoffending. With contactless delivery to curb the spread of coronavirus, she added, you can't tell servers... (Newser) Nagorno-Karabakhan ethnic Armenian enclave in Azerbaijan as big as Rhode Island and as populous as Syracuse, NYhas been the site of fierce fighting in recent weeks. Analysts fear it could trigger a wider regional war involving Turkey, Russia, and Iran. Since fighting erupted on Sept. 27, hundreds of people, including dozens of civilians, have been killed, and Armenian officials have accused Turkey of sending fighters and weapons to assist Azerbaijan, the AP reports. Russia, meanwhile, has a defense pact with Armenia. The last time there was a full-scale conflict in the area was from 1992 to 1994, when a ceasefire was called after an estimated 30,000 deaths. More: The background. The region, where animosity between Armenians and Azerbaijanis runs very deep, is one of several "frozen conflict zones" in the former Soviet Union, the New York Times reports. It sits within Azerbaijan but declared independence in 1991, just before the Soviet Union collapsed, reports the AP. War broke out the following year; the eventual 1994 ceasefire left around 600,000 ethnic Azerbaijanis unable to return to their homes. Ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia have controlled the enclave since; Azerbaijan has vowed to recapture it. story continues below Both sides say civilian areas attacked . Azerbaijan alleges that missile and rocket attacks that killed at least 24 civilians came from Armenia itself. not Nagorno-Karabakh, reports CNN. Armenia, which calls Azerbaijan's claims "disinformation," said the country fired rockets Monday into Stepanakert, the territory's capital. Officials in Nagorno-Karabakh say 233 soldiers have been killed. Azerbaijan has not disclosed military casualties. . Azerbaijan alleges that missile and rocket attacks that killed at least 24 civilians came from Armenia itself. not Nagorno-Karabakh, reports CNN. Armenia, which calls Azerbaijan's claims "disinformation," said the country fired rockets Monday into Stepanakert, the territory's capital. Officials in Nagorno-Karabakh say 233 soldiers have been killed. Azerbaijan has not disclosed military casualties. "One step away from a large-scale war." Analysts say that the conflict has the potential to explode because, unlike in previous years, Western powers made little effort to de-escalate the conflict as tensions rose this year. "All the signals were in place, everything was telling that escalation was coming. And there was diplomatic silence," Olesya Vartanyan at the International Crisis Group, tells CBS. "We are definitely one step away from a large-scale war in the region." Analysts say that the conflict has the potential to explode because, unlike in previous years, Western powers made little effort to de-escalate the conflict as tensions rose this year. "All the signals were in place, everything was telling that escalation was coming. And there was diplomatic silence," Olesya Vartanyan at the International Crisis Group, tells CBS. "We are definitely one step away from a large-scale war in the region." Azerbaijan takes hard line . Azeri President Ilham Aliyev said Sunday that the country is retaking its territory and Armenia must set a timeline for withdrawal from the area, reports Reuters. "Azerbaijan has one condition, and that is the liberation of its territories," he said in an address to the nation. . Azeri President Ilham Aliyev said Sunday that the country is retaking its territory and Armenia must set a timeline for withdrawal from the area, reports Reuters. "Azerbaijan has one condition, and that is the liberation of its territories," he said in an address to the nation. Has Erdogan gone too far? Armenia accuses Turkey of sending foreign fighters from Syria to the conflict, and Bloomberg reports that with Russia and Turkey already on opposing sides of conflicts in Libya and Syria, the Nagarno-Karabakh dispute could be the "red line" that will lead Russian President Vladimir Putin to turn on Recep Tayyip Erdogan, his Turkish counterpart. "Erdogan is really testing Putins patience, says Alexander Dynkin, president of the Institute of World Economy and International Relations of the Russian Academy of Sciences, which also advises the Kremlin. He irritates Putin more and more. Armenia accuses Turkey of sending foreign fighters from Syria to the conflict, and Bloomberg reports that with Russia and Turkey already on opposing sides of conflicts in Libya and Syria, the Nagarno-Karabakh dispute could be the "red line" that will lead Russian President Vladimir Putin to turn on Recep Tayyip Erdogan, his Turkish counterpart. "Erdogan is really testing Putins patience, says Alexander Dynkin, president of the Institute of World Economy and International Relations of the Russian Academy of Sciences, which also advises the Kremlin. He irritates Putin more and more. Iran "working on peace plan." Iran, which borders both Armenia and Azerbaijan, says it is talking to all parties to try to resolve the conflictand it will not tolerate hostilities leaking over the border. "Any aggression against the borders of the Islamic Republic, even inadvertently, is a very serious red line for the Islamic Republic that should not be crossed," foreign ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said Monday, per the AP. Russian authorities have said they are willing to host peace talks. (Read more Nagorno-Karabakh stories.) With its top party leaders and Tej Pratap Yadav facing murder charges, the RJD on Monday accused Bihar Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi of engaging in a criminal conspiracy against Rashtriya Janata Dal's Rajya Sabha member Manoj Jha cited a phone number which was allegedly used to demand money from aspiring party candidates for allotment of ticket in the coming Assembly but was not registered with anyone as per the state-run telecom company. "The phone number 0612-2217222 belongs to Patna circle of BSNL, and was used by unknown persons for random calls to aspiring candidates of the RJD. Interestingly, when you call back on it, the name of emerge on Truecaller," he told media persons here. Jha said that this phone number was registered in the name of former Chief Minister Rabri Devi but it was disconnected on November 21, 2016. After this, it was allotted to the Forest Department office in Patna, but they also gave it up on March 18, 2019 and as per enquiries with BSNL, it has not been registered with anyone since then. "On September 19, a missed call from this number went to a RJD aspirant in Sitamarhi. Since, Tejashwi Yadav's name emerged on Truecaller, when he called back on that number, he was instructed to come to Patna with Rs 25 lakh via Lalganj town to get ticket. Another candidate of Muzaffarpur was also approached in a similar fashion. I have a long list of calls which were made from it to demand money from candidates," he said, waving a bunch of documents. "If that phone number is not registered with any person, then who is misusing it in the name of Tejashwi Yadav? I firmly believes that a conspiracy of such magnitude cannot be possible without the connivance of the ruling party. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi and their close ministers are involved in a conspiracy against Tejashwi Yadav to win this election," he added. Jha also hit out at BSNL for allowing this conspiracy to take place, saying that it has put a question mark on reputation of the institution. Noting Tejashwi Yadav has raised questions on unemployment, migrant labour, flood situation, law and order, crime against women and the '10 lakh jobs' promise, he alleged that the ruling party leaders have no answer to those points. "Hence, CM Nitish Kumar, Sushil Kumar Modi and other leaders of NDA are taken the politics of Bihar to such a low standard. They are using the conspiracy method to win this election," Jha said, demanding a fair investigation into the matter. Taking a dig at the Bihar Police, he said that its former DGP "used the government post to build his own political career". "It is enough to understand how Bihar Police is working under Nitish Kumar," he said. "Does the ruling party have any answer on whether the decisions taken by ex-DGP Gupteshwar Pandey during his tenure were fair?" he asked. Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav are embroiled in controversy after RJD's Dalit leader Shakti Malik was murdered by three unidentified men in the state's Purnea district on Sunday. Malik's wife has alleged that Tejashwi Yadav demanded Rs 50 lakh for ticket, and when her husband was unable to give money, Tejashwi abused him. She also levelled murder charges on him and Tej Pratap Yadav. --IANS ajk/vd (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.) A faecal transplant from a young person to an elderly individual may one day reverse the cognitive decline that naturally occurs with age, according to scientists. (Posed by a model, Getty Images) Faecal transplants may one day help reverse a loss of cognitive function, research suggests. Scientists from the University of East Anglia transferred faecal matter from old mice to younger rodents, before measuring how it affected the animals memory and learning skills. Results revealed the nauseating-sounding procedure significantly altered the bacterial make-up of the young mices guts. They then performed worse in a maze test designed to assess their memory and spatial learning. Read more: Faecal transplant in C-section babies could ward off asthma The scientists noted the young rodents began to behave like older mice, in terms of their cognitive function. While a long way off, the team wondered whether a faecal transplant from a young person to an elderly individual could reverse the cognitive decline that naturally occurs with age. Faecal transplants are only approved in the UK when other treatments have failed to stop diarrhoea caused by the bacteria Clostridium difficile. (Stock, Getty Images) Ageing is an inevitable process that starts immediately after birth and ultimately leads to physical health problems as well as a decline in psychological wellbeing and cognitive function, said study author Dr David Vauzour. Research has shown the ageing process may be linked with age-related changes in our gut microbiota. Read more: Crohns could be treated via freeze-dried faeces capsules Recently, the existence of two-way communication between the gut and the brain known as the gut-brain axis has emerged as an important player in shaping aspects of behaviour and cognitive function. We wanted to see whether transferring gut microbes from older to younger mice could affect parts of the central nervous system associated with ageing. Watch: What is a faecal transplant? Shifts to our gut bacterial make-up are known to affect a variety of systems, but evidence on how it impacts cognitive function directly was lacking, the scientists wrote in the journal Microbiome. To learn more, the team transferred gut bacteria from young adult mice to rodents who were either the same age as the donors or older, via a faecal microbial transplant (FMT). Story continues Results revealed the younger mice who received the transplant went on to have impaired spatial learning and memory. This occurred alongside a change to the expression of proteins involved in nerve cell signalling and synaptic plasticity a term that describes the malleability of the structures that pass signals between nerve cells. Read more: Dementia onset linked to personality, study suggests The scientists also noted a strong reduction in certain gut bacteria. Our research shows a faecal transplantation from an old donor to a young recipient causes an age-associated shift in the composition of gut microbiota, said Dr Vauzour. The procedure had an impact on the expression of proteins involved in key functions of the hippocampus an important part of the brain that has a vital role in a variety of functions including memory, learning but also in spatial navigation, emotional behaviour and mood. In short, the young mice began to behave like older mice, in terms of their cognitive function. No change was observed to the younger rodents anxiety levels, explorative behaviour or locomotor activity. The scientists concluded: These results highlight the paramount importance of the gut-brain axis in ageing and provide a strong rationale to devise therapies aiming to restore a young-like microbiota to improve cognitive functions and the declining quality of life in the elderly. They believe their results provide a strong rationale to devise therapies aiming to restore a young-like microbiota to improve cognitive functions and quality of life in the elderly. While it remains to be seen whether transplantation from very young donors can restore cognitive function in aged recipients, the findings demonstrate that age-related shifts in the gut microbiome can alter components of the central nervous system, said co-author Professor Claudio Nicoletti, from the University of Florence. Co-author Professor Arjan Narbad from the University of East Anglia added: Manipulating the microbiome is increasingly being seen as a way of improving or maintaining human health and these results are an exciting indication of its potential for helping us age healthily. We have established an FMT service on the Norwich Research Park to treat serious gut infections and now want to explore in humans its effectiveness in combating a number of age-related conditions, including cognitive decline. What is faecal microbial transplantation? FMT is only approved in the UK when other treatments have failed to stop diarrhoea caused by the bacteria Clostridium difficile. It involves faeces being taken from a healthy donor and processed. A liquid mixture is then transplanted into a patients intestine via an endoscope. The aim is to restore the balance of gut bacteria so the patient can fight the infection. Donors are first tested for an array of infections. They must be free of medical problems and lead a healthy lifestyle. C. difficile can be tricky to treat, with up to a one in four chance of the infection returning after initially seeming to be cured. The bacteria can become less responsive to antibiotics over time, prompting doctors to recommend FMT. There have been no reported cases of infections as a result of a patient receiving the transplant. Watch: Study sought super donors for faecal transplants On Wednesday, October 7, at 13.30 the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host a press conference on the topic "Surveillance and Threats of Rape for Exposing Academic Dishonesty," during which they will talk about persecution after exposing plagiarism in S. Shkarlet's thesis. Participants: an activist, the chairperson of NGO Point of Growth, Education and Science, the coordinator of the anti-plagiarism initiative Desergate, Svitlana Blahodeteleva-Vovk, the project manager of the ZMINA Human Rights Center Liudmyla Yankina, lawyer of the victim Lidiya Dmytrus, Executive Director of the Anti-Corruption Action Center Darya Kaleniuk (8/5a Reitarska Street). The broadcast of the press conference will be available on the Youtube channel of the Interfax-Ukraine agency. Accreditation of journalists by phone: (099) 772 5667, ii@humanrights.org.ua (Iryna Ivanchenko). U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat from California, center, speaks to members of the media as she walks to her office at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., U.S. on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin spoke for about an hour Monday but emerged from a phone call with no coronavirus stimulus deal. The pair expects to talk again Tuesday as the White House and Democratic leaders try to craft an elusive fifth pandemic relief package, Pelosi's spokesman Drew Hammill said in a tweet. Pelosi and Mnuchin plan to exchange more details about their proposals Monday, he added. The sides have made a final push in recent days to strike an aid agreement and pass legislation before the Nov. 3 election. While Pelosi and Mnuchin seem to have made progress toward a deal, they had a range of outstanding disagreements heading into the weekend. The millions of Americans still out of work during the pandemic await more relief from Washington after several financial lifelines set up during the outbreak expired weeks ago. Economists have worried a lack of new fiscal stimulus will stunt a slowing U.S. economic recovery. Lawmakers also aim to bolster efforts to test Americans for the virus, treat Covid-19 and develop an effective vaccine as the country still reports tens of thousands of new cases per day. Optimism about the prospects of a relief deal helped to boost the U.S. stock market Monday. President Donald Trump, fighting Covid-19 himself, put pressure on Congress to pass aid legislation over the weekend. Trump has largely stayed out of the talks between the White House and Congress. The coming days will likely determine whether lawmakers can approve another stimulus package before the election. Even if Pelosi and Mnuchin can strike a deal, they will need to craft a plan that can earn enough support to get through the Republican-held Senate. Democrats passed a $2.2 trillion coronavirus relief bill last week. It would reinstate the $600 per week in extra jobless benefits through January, send another $1,200 direct payment to most Americans, direct $436 billion in aid to states and municipalities, and authorize a second round of Paycheck Protection Program loans for hard-hit small businesses, among a bevy of other provisions. Breast milk plays a vital role in reducing child mortality. It has all the nutrients a baby needs in the first six months of life and its health benefits extend into adulthood. This is why organisations, like UNICEF and the World Health Organisation (WHO), recommend exclusive breastfeeding no other food or drink, not even water for infants in this period. Globally, numerous policies and programmes have been put in place to promote and support breastfeeding. South Africa has also been promoting exclusive breastfeeding. But the country has one of the lowest rates of exclusive breastfeeding in Africa and globally. Within the country, the rate varies substantially. There have been remarkable improvements in some age groups. In 2003, only 11.2% of babies were breastfeeding exclusively in the first month of life. By 2016, that number had jumped to 44%. But, at five months, only 31.6% of babies were being exclusively breastfed. These patterns were echoed in my doctoral study conducted in the Tlokwe sub-district an area with nine primary healthcare clinics and a district hospital in South Africa's North West province. I examined the rate and reasons of exclusive breastfeeding discontinuation among a particular group of mothers. It's important to understand why mothers, despite the decades of breastfeeding promotion campaigns, still do not optimally breastfeed their infants. Understanding the reasons can inform policy and interventions to make it easier to give babies the best start in life. Breastfeeding practices The Tlokwe sub-district is like many low-income neighbourhoods in South Africa. It's burdened with high unemployment, poor living conditions, high levels of violence and crime and low levels of social capital. Most households in setting like this are headed by women and have multiple children. The men are often drawn to cities for better employment opportunities. I followed a cohort of 178 breastfeeding mothers with infants from age 14 days to 24 weeks. In my study, exclusive breastfeeding rates decreased from 34% at 4-8 weeks to a mere 9.7% by weeks 20-24. Over the same period, mixed feeding with infant formula increased from 17% to 50.1%, and food feeding from 3.1% to 54.2%. These numbers mirror the national trends . A lot is still uncertain about breastfeeding practices in South Africa. But my research suggests that womens' decisions around breastfeeding are shaped by a host of personal, social, economic and cultural factors. These often get in the way of the mother's intentions to breastfeed her infant as recommended. This is especially true for women living in poverty. Read more: How health workers have adapted to South Africa's breastfeeding policy Of all the factors that determine women's decisions on breastfeeding, the most dominant one in my study, at least was the stress that mothers endure in difficult home environments. Many South African women face daily challenges of poverty no food, rent to pay, children to put through school. One study found that a major concern and source of stress for breastfeeding mothers was the lack of food in the home. In 2017, almost 20% of South African households had inadequate or severely inadequate access to food. The North West province where I did my study had the highest proportion of food insecure households at 63%. Under such trying conditions, women often have to care for children alone. Studies have found that most new mothers live with their families of origin rather than their partners or spouses. And these families have their own struggles with poverty. This elevates stress. Family stress and the lack of food and money take a toll on a mother's mental health. I used the Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale to measure mothers' mental health and found that nearly 45% had clinical signs of distress. This rate is higher than found in previous studies of mental health among HIV-positive mothers. Around 13% of mothers in developing countries experience clinical depression after childbirth a condition also known as postpartum or postnatal depression. Women with high levels of postpartum depression are more likely to stop breastfeeding within three months. In my study, mothers feared that the stress they experienced could be passed on to their infants through breastfeeding. Mothers are reluctant to pass on their stress and distress to their infants. Their decision to seek alternative feeding is a protective action to spare their infants their negative stress. Research shows that stress in mothers increases corticosteroids in breast milk. This validates mothers' concern for their infants and the negative impact of stress. My qualitative data showed that many mothers had difficult and strained relationships in the home and experienced a hostile social environment towards breastfeeding. Mothers expressed discomfort and shame about breastfeeding in public spaces and places. There are additional factors that influence breastfeeding choices. These include the mother's breastfeeding knowledge, and breastfeeding support from health professionals. Mothers knew about the health benefits of breastfeeding for their infants. But surprisingly, baby cues were often interpreted and internalised as negative responses to their breast milk. These cues included the baby crying, the baby breastfeeding frequently, and the baby not sleeping for long periods. Often these aspects of baby care and breastfeeding were not discussed at the health facilities. The infant formula industry markets infant formula as a superior response to the crying baby, the hungry baby and the difficult sleeper. These were some of the reasons that mothers switched to infant formula. Guidance from family, relatives and health professionals is also likely to shape the decision to continue or discontinue with breastfeeding. Recommendations Most mothers deliver their babies in a health facility where exclusive breastfeeding is recommended and encouraged. But the fact that mixed feeding is the norm suggests that mothers are confronted with environments that make it hard for them to follow this advice. My findings suggest that breastfeeding information and education is reaching mothers, which mothers value and want to breastfeed. But telling a mother that breastfeeding is good for the baby does not address the challenge of household food insecurity, internalised misconceptions about breast milk production, and difficult family relations. These barriers inhibit optimal breastfeeding practices and demand broader society engagement on supporting women and their child care responsibilities. Breastfeeding support programmes narrowly focused on the health and social benefits of breastfeeding need to take a broader approach. Child nutrition can't be addressed without addressing the challenges that women, and mothers in particular, face. Chantell Witten does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. By Chantell Witten, Lecturer, University of the Free State Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. According to a new study published by Polaris Market Research the worldwide battery management system (BMS) market is anticipated to reach USD 14,422 million by 2026. In 2017, the lead-acid batteries dominated the global market, in terms of revenue. North America is expected to be the leading contributor to the global market revenue during the forecast period. The rising demand of BMS from the automotive sector primarily drives the growth of this market. These systems are increasingly being adopted across various industries such as aerospace and defense, healthcare, and electronics among others. The increasing adoption of BMS in data centers, and renewable energy systems further supports the growth of this market. Request for sample of this research report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/battery-management-system-market/request-for-sample The demand for electric vehicles has increased significantly over the years owing to increasing prices of gasoline prices across the globe, which leads to increased adoption of battery management systems. The exponential growth in the prices of gasoline and diesel owing to the depleting fossil fuel reserves has encouraged consumers to switch to battery based electric vehicles. Limited availability of public electric vehicle charging infrastructure for electric vehicles had restricted the adoption of these vehicles to a certain extent in the past. However, with significant government initiatives and substantial investments, the development of public charging infrastructure has accelerated significantly. Technological advancements in components such as lithium-ion batteries, which are majorly used in electric vehicles, along with decreasing prices of the same is expected to further increase the demand of battery based electric vehicles in the market. North America generated the highest revenue in the market in 2017, and is expected to lead the global market throughout the forecast period. The increasing demand for alternative fuel vehicles, especially the electric-vehicles is expected to drive the growth of battery management systems in this region. The growing use of BMS in renewable energy storage systems also accelerates the adoption. Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period owing to increasing demand for BMS from countries such as China, Japan, and India. The presence of large number of automotive manufacturers and portable device suppliers also augments the growth of this market in the region. Browse summary of this report with TOC @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/battery-management-system-market The different types of topologies included in the report include centralized, distributed, and modular. In 2017, centralized topology accounted for the highest market share. However, during the forecast period distributed and modular topologies are expected to represent strong growth. Modular topology offer high computational power, and enhanced safety. Modular topology is also increasingly being used for various applications such as drones, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems among others. The various end-users of battery management systems include medical, automotive, telecommunication, consumer electronics, military, and others. In 2017, consumer electronics accounted for the largest share in the global market, and are estimated to grow at a substantial rate during the forecast period. The automotive segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period owing to increasing applications, stringent government regulations regarding vehicular emissions, increasing acceptance of electric vehicles. The well-known companies profiled in the report include Texas Instruments Inc., Johnson Matthey PLC., Linear Technology Corporation, vecture Inc., Elithion Inc., NXP Semiconductors, Intersil Corporation, Nuvation Engineering, Ventec SAS, Generex Systems, and Lithium Balance A/S among others. These companies launch new products and collaborate with other market leaders to innovate and launch new products to meet the increasing needs and requirements of consumers. Speak to Analyst to know more @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/battery-management-system-market/speak-to-analyst Key Segments: Battery Management System Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Battery Type o Key Findings Lead-acid Batteries Nickel-based Batteries Li-ion Batteries Flow Batteries Others Battery Management System Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Component Key Findings Hardware Components Software Components Battery Management System Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Charging Source Key Findings Conventional Non-conventional Hybrid Battery Management System Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by Topology Key Findings Distributed Centralized Modular Battery Management System Market Size and Forecast, 2017-2026 by End-user Key Findings Medical Automotive Telecommunication Consumer Electronics Military Others Get Exclusive Discount on This Report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/battery-management-system-market/request-for-discount-pricing About Polaris Market Research Polaris Market Research is a global market research and consulting company. The company specializes in providing exceptional market intelligence and in-depth business research services for our clientele spread across different enterprises. We at Polaris are obliged to serve our diverse customer base present across the industries of healthcare, technology, semi-conductors and chemicals among various other industries present around the world. Contact Us: Polaris Market Research Phone: 1-646-568-9980 Email: sales@polarismarketresearch.com Web: www.polarismarketresearch.com Armenia and Azerbaijan accused each other on Monday of attacking civilian areas on the ninth day of the deadliest fighting in the South Caucasus region for more than 25 years. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg added his voice to calls for an immediate end to the clashes over Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountain enclave that belongs to Azerbaijan under international law but is populated and governed by ethnic Armenians. But prospects for a ceasefire appeared remote after the fighting intensified over the weekend and following uncompromising comments by Azeri President Ilham Aliyev. In an address to the nation on Sunday, Aliyev said Azeri forces were advancing and retaking lands that had been in the hands of ethnic Armenians since a war in the 1990s. He said Armenia must set a timetable for withdrawing from Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding Azeri territories, and that Azerbaijan would not cease military action until that happened. "Azerbaijan has one condition, and that is the liberation of its territories," he said. Aliyev said in an interview with Turkish state broadcaster TRT Haber on Monday that Ankara must be involved in any moves to end the conflict. Armenian Defence Ministry official Artsrun Hovhannisyan said: "I don't think that there is any risk for Yerevan (the Armenian capital), but anyway we are in war." The fighting has raised international concern about stability in the South Caucasus, where pipelines carry Azeri oil and gas to world markets, and about the possibility other regional powers being dragged in - Azerbaijan is supported by Turkey, and Armenia has a defence pact with Russia. "There is no military solution," Stoltenberg said during a visit to Turkey, calling for a ceasefire. Standing beside him, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said Azerbaijan was trying to take back its own lands and NATO should call for Armenian forces to withdraw. DEATH TOLL MOUNTS On Monday, Nagorno-Karabakh said Azeri forces carried out rocket strikes on its main administrative centre, Stepanakert, while Azerbaijan said Armenia fired missiles at several towns outside the breakaway region. "The enemy is firing rockets at Stepanakert and Shushi. The Defence Army response will not be long in coming," said Vahram Pogosyan, a spokesman for the Nagorno-Karabakh leader. Officials in Nagorno-Karabakh said 21 more servicemen had been killed, bringing its total military death toll to 223 since fighting flared on Sept. 27. Azerbaijan said Armenia had launched missile attacks at densely populated areas and civilian infrastructure in Azerbaijan, an accusation denied by Armenia. The Azeri prosecutor's office said 25 civilians and been killed and 127 wounded since fighting began. Azerbaijan has not provided military casualties. "This is a new and dangerous phase in relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia," said Azeri prosecutor-general Kamran Aliyev. Dismissing Azerbaijan's accusations of targeting civilians, Armenian Defence Ministry spokeswoman Shushan Stepanyan said: "Azeri official circles continue disseminating information that has nothing in common with the truth." The clashes are the worst since the 1990s, when some 30,000 people were killed, and are spreading beyond the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave itself. Ceasefire calls from Russia, France, the United States and the European Union have produced no result. Iran said on Monday it would discuss a plan to end the fighting with the warring sides and other countries in the region, but gave no details. "The fighting has essentially put to bed the prospect of any near-term resolution to the dispute over Nagorno-Karabakh," said analysts Alexander Stronell and Yohann Michel of the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin offered Armenia humanitarian aid, hoping to smooth relations strained by Israeli arms sales to Azerbaijan. Armenia recalled its ambassador from Tel Aviv for consultations last week. Search Keywords: Short link: 05.10.2020 LISTEN The CPP Parliamentary Candidate in the Jomoro Constituency Patrick Ekye Kwesi has implored on the people of Jomoro to reject the NPP and NDC and vote massively for the CPP in the upcoming elections. According to him, the CPP is the only party that can bring development to the constituency. Mr. Ekye Kwesi said this when he engaged CPP members at Benyinli in the Jomoro Constituency. Mr. Ekye Kwesi said he is committed to the ideologies of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and the CPP adding that anyone who claims to be Nkrumahist but has rejected the CPP must also be rejected. Enumerating some of the projects he intends to undertake when elected as member Parliament, the young entrepreneur and philanthropist said he will make sure that a cocoa processing factory is built at Elubo and support the people of Jomoro to extract oil in the various bodies. He added that he will make Jomoro the Florida of Ghana with jobs and investments. He said the CPP is not a small party as it's being referred to, rather it is as big as the NPP and the NDC that is why they are paying the same filing fees. He urged all CPP members to be active and undertake vigorous house to house campaign to make sure the CPP recapture the Jomoro seat again. He said his knowledge and familiarity with the politics and needs of the constituency put him in a favourable position to serve the best interest of his people. The Regional Organizer of the CPP Thomas Amokyi urged all Ghanaians who claim to like Dr. Kwame Nkrumah to vote for the CPP and their Parliamentary Candidate Patrick Ekye Kwesi. He said anybody who likes Dr. Kwame Nkrumah but hates the CPP is a hypocrite. SEARCH A minimum of 3 characters are required to be typed in the search bar in order to perform a search. As businesses struggle with decreasing customer interest and dwindling finances as a result of the current economic crisis, many have resorted to laying off their staff. In the UK, companies have slashed over 100,000 jobs due to economic challenges of the pandemic. And now that the furlough scheme has come to an end, its likely that more job cuts will be made over the next few months. But despite all of this economic uncertainty, the rise of remote working has resulted in huge growth in the technology sector. Consequently, theres increasing demand for technical talent, and this presents a unique opportunity for people who have been made redundant in other industries to re-skill in tech. While Covid-19 has had a significant impact on the UK employment market, the tech job market has remained robust and offers unique opportunities to individuals looking to upskill, retrain or even start a new career in the sector, says Dominic Harvey, director at UK tech job board CWJobs. Although many people in the UK have been forced to consider a career change over the last six months, due to being furloughed, made redundant or using the downtime to re-evaluate their future job prospects, it is clear the need for tech skills is now greater than ever. PROSPECT HEIGHTS, BROOKLYN Feeling anxious about sending her third-grader back to class amid a pandemic, Martha Pearson got a bit of relief in August when New York City gave the go-ahead for schools to hold class outside. There was just one problem half the outdoor space at her daughter's school had been turned into a fenced-off construction site. "Those announcements were kind of on the heels of each other, like, 'You can do outdoor schooling, but there's this,'" Pearson said, recalling an August note from P.S. 9's principal about the schoolyard construction. "So, how is our outdoor space going to work?" The anxiety only got worse when Pearson and other parents were told that a massive hole dug for the project started to fix stormwater issues wouldn't be going anywhere anytime soon. Despite only starting the work in August, the city had paused nearly all non-emergency school construction projects, a move local officials say was done to help with a coronavirus-induced $9-billion hole in New York City's budget. (Anna Quinn/Patch) For P.S. 9, the pause means the fenced-in hole, which takes up about half the schoolyard, will stay indefinitely as staff struggle to use the outdoor space with proper social distancing. Parents and staff held a rally Friday to call for the city to finish the project. "My students need wide open spaces,"said Deidre Levy, who teaches kindergarten through second grade for special education students. "This has interrupted the way we operate as a school." Levy said the fenced-in area not only limits the number of kids that can use the schoolyard at any given time, but has made it more difficult to keep up social distancing during pick-up and drop-off time. The fenced-in area nearly covers the pre-K entrance to the school, meaning preschoolers and their parents are forced to line up in an alleyway along the fence when getting to school in the morning. Story continues Kids also get dangerously close to the construction site when they play outside, parents said. "Children will try to get up underneath this," Yvette Buckner, a fourth grade parent, pointed out. Staff and parents also said they worry about dust from the construction site getting into the pre-K classrooms through windows, which they need to keep open for proper ventilation given coronavirus guidelines. The Department of Education told Patch that they have been in touch with the school community and have told contractors to put in more safety barriers, fencing and screens. The projects will resume as soon as possible, a spokesperson said. Due to the unprecedented circumstances brought on by COVID-19, the vast majority of all non-emergency construction projects were placed on pause and we hope to resume them as soon as we can," they said in a statement. City Council Majority Leader Laurie Cumbo, who has reached out herself to the Department of Education and School Construction Authority, said Friday the pause on construction seems to come straight from Mayor Bill de Blasio's office. City Hall did not respond to a request for comment from Patch. "Mayor de Blasio, you have the ability to make sure our young people, not only at P.S. 9, but at every school all through out the city deserve to have open spaces," Cumbo said Friday. "We've had to fight for so much over these last seven months and a playground should not be what we [have to] fight for." (Anna Quinn/Patch.) This article originally appeared on the Prospect Heights-Crown Heights Patch Emirates announced on Monday the resumption of flights to several European cities. The major Gulf airline is projecting a positive outlook after financial struggles earlier in the year. The Dubai-based Emirates will resume flights to and from Budapest on Oct. 21. On Nov. 1, it will start flying to and from Bologna, Dusseldorf and Hamburg again. Emirates will then resume flights to and from Lyon on Nov. 4. Each route will have two flights a week, and the resumptions will bring Emirates number of European destinations to 31, the airline said in a press release. The airline continues to gradually meet travel demand, said Emirates. Like other Middle Eastern airlines, Emirates stopped most passenger flights in March due to the coronavirus pandemic. In May, the airline began gradually resuming regularly scheduled international flights. Dubai is a major international transit hub. The decrease in air travel caused by the coronavirus led to financial hardship for Emirates. In August, the company offered employees unpaid leave for the second time in 2020. In June, it cut hundreds of pilot and cabin crew jobs. Etihad Airways in Abu Dhabi and Qatar Airways in Doha have faced similar difficulties. In late August, the Dubai government gave Emirates $2 billion, which provided some relief. Emirates is continuing to steadily rebuild its flight network. Late last month, Emirates started flying to Muscat again. Before the crisis, Emirates flew to more than 150 destinations. Once the Lyon route resumes in November, the airline will be at 99 destinations. Dubai also remains open to international tourism, despite the United Arab Emirates (UAE) experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak at present. Air travel is a major industry in the UAE. The country has six airlines. At the end of 2019, the sector employed 8,656 pilots, 37,694 flight attendants and 4,321 engineers, according to the state-run Emirates News Agency. LONDON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Researchers from the University of Westminster researching wellbeing and self-harm have identified a stark absence of guidance and resources available for supporters of individuals suffering with mental health difficulties and self-harm, and the risks this poses. The revelation comes while pressure is mounting on individuals taking on support roles amid deteriorating mental health levels, significantly reduced mental health provision, and increased isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Research reveals that it is crucial for supporters to have access to sufficient information and resources in order to feel supported themselves when caring for the wellbeing of others. Participants indicated that effective and tailored support could be helpful in reducing injury and loss of life, as well as promoting wellbeing and improved mental health. In response to the findings and to mark World Mental Health Day 2020, the University of Westminster team has created a first-of-its-kind online platform CHERISH, providing much-needed resources for those providing support to others with experience of self-harm. The website has been developed alongside participants with lived experience, including professionals, family and friends, and those with personal experiences of self-harm. It aims to bring together information and resources on self-harm and mental health on one platform, something which participants felt was particularly lacking for them as supporters. The site also provides tips from both the research team and participants, while offering a space to safely explore the emotions and experiences of other supporters and the importance of self-care. CHERISH also aims to nurture community support through encouraging supporters to share their experiences in blog posts. To mark the launch of the site, CHERISH is holding an official launch week from 5 October in the run up to World Mental Health Day. Materials focusing on a specific area of mental health will be shared each day, with contributions from individuals with a particular interest in this area from the University of Westminster. Laura Culshaw, Doctoral Researcher in Psychology at the University of Westminster and Research Associate working on the CHERISH project, said: "This research highlights the importance of bringing supporters into the forefront of the mental health conversation and gain access to further guidance to assist them. "The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a dangerous mix of declining mental health levels and limited mental health provision opportunities. Many individuals are feeling particularly isolated and detached from their normal support networks, such as friends and family, with their usual outlets, hobbies and ways of coping taken away. This is likely to increase the amount of support needed, and it is now more important than ever to help supporters feel supported themselves. "Participants so often mentioned how stressful it can be to try and find information across lots of different platforms, and the challenge of looking after themselves during this time. CHERISH really aims to create a space for all that information to try and aid their journey as someone who provides support, no matter what their level of experience may be. The real message here is that even though you may be supporting someone else, it's okay for you not to feel okay too. Supporters often carry a lot of guilt about finding things too much and needing time out for themselves, but in order to be able to support someone else, you have to take care of your own well-being." An individual, who had supported a family member whilst also having personal experiences of self-harm, said of the CHERISH resource: "Listing useful apps that help you self-support is a great resource. The overall website has a very calming look which helps. I LOVE the emergency button. It makes it easy to get to information in a crisis which, from experience, can be half the battle." Funding was awarded to Dr Nina Smyth, Dr Jay-Marie Mackenzie, Dr Tina Cartwright and Laura Culshaw (as Research associate) from Psychology, School of Social Sciences at the University of Westminster, by the Sir Halley Stewart Trust to undertake the research and develop the website. The CHERISH website can be accessed from https://www.cherishsupport.co.uk Notes to editors: The research team interviewed individuals who have been involved in providing support to university students who self-harm, including professionals, friends and family members. Whilst the research focused on students, many discussed their experiences outside of University too, and therefore a lot of the website content can be applied more widely to all those providing support for mental health and self-harm. The CHERISH logo can be downloaded from: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gPZxCGX4jzu0R87YoTFW3I_hWTZ7iLDZ/view?usp=sharing About CHERISH https://www.cherishsupport.co.uk CHERISH (Caring for Self-Harm, Resources & Information for Supporting Students in Higher Education) is a website that has been developed alongside individuals with direct experiences of providing support to another individual for self-harm. For many, this can be an overwhelming experience, with people often feeling isolated and lonely during their journey as a supporter. This website aims to share helpful information and experiences of others in order to allow you to feel more supported during this time. This website is aimed at all individuals who may be providing support for self-harm, including friends, family & carers, and professionals. We have also put together some helpful resources for those who may have personal experiences of self-harm. We realise that everyone has different experiences and backgrounds, and that you may be feeling a variety of different emotions at this time. We encourage users to explore our website and hope there will be something useful for everyone. For those who would like to know more about our research and the website this can be found here. About the University of Westminster The University of Westminster offers a vibrant learning environment attracting more than 19,000 students from over 160 nations and we continue to invest in our future with new developments, research projects and new ideas. The University ranked 4th in the UK and 32nd in the world for 'International Outlook', according to the Times Higher Education Young University Ranking in 2020. Established as London's first polytechnic in 1838, we have, from our earliest days, opened our doors to provide educational opportunities to people regardless of their background and supported them on their journey to develop their skills, knowledge and expertise. We offer highly attractive practice-based courses which are independently rated as excellent, many with international recognition. Our distinguished 175-year history has meant we lead the way in many areas of research, particularly Politics, Media, Art and Design, Architecture and Biomedical Sciences, and our position in the city of London allows us to continue to build on our close connections with leading figures and organisations in these areas as well as in the worlds of business, information technology, politics and law. Our commitment to educating graduates for the needs of professional life attracts high quality students from within the UK and around the globe. Global engagement, employability and sustainability are key elements in the University of Westminster's vision for the future and we strive to ensure the very highest standards are met and maintained. SOURCE University of Westminster Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 05:35:24|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close People wearing face masks walk in the Gravesend neighborhood in the Brooklyn borough of New York, the United States, Oct. 4, 2020. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio on Sunday announced a proposal to "close ALL schools and nonessential businesses" in nine ZIP-code areas of the city on Oct. 7 due to the uptick in COVID-19 cases recorded there. (Photo by Michael Nagle/Xinhua) NEW YORK, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- Top officials of New York state and New York City on Sunday raised the alarm and introduced a set of strong measures against the COVID-19 pandemic, as school reopenings have brought high numbers of children back to campus over the past week and hotspot areas remain unbridled with unabated concentration of cases and fatalities. ANOTHER CLOSURE New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio on Sunday announced a proposal to "close ALL schools and nonessential businesses" in nine ZIP-code areas of the city on Oct. 7 due to the uptick in COVID-19 cases recorded there. "We've seen consistently high COVID-19 numbers in 9 zip codes across South Brooklyn, Far Rockaway and Central Queens. We're providing these areas with additional resources, but when presented with new information, we must act. We won't risk the progress we've made," he tweeted. The ZIP codes of the seriously-affected areas are 11691, 11219, 11223, 11230, 11204, 11210, 11229, 11415 and 11367, according to the mayor. "This was not an easy choice to make, and let me be clear: we haven't seen any issues in these schools. We must, however, be proactive about the safety and health of New Yorkers," said de Blasio. An uptick in coronavirus cases has also been seen in areas with ZIP codes of 11205, 11211, 11249, 11235, 11234, 11213, 11218, 11374, 11366, 11432 and 11365, he added. LACK OF RESOURCES Also on Sunday, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo tweeted, "We all want schools to reopen IF they can reopen safely. I have assured the parents of this state that I would not send my child to a school that I didn't know was safe. Without testing we can't assure parents and teachers of the safety of that school." "I'm concerned about the lack of testing in the schools. If the localities do not do testing immediately in the schools in those areas, the State will close them immediately," he added. All of New York City's public middle and high schools were reopened on Thursday, which meant some 500,000 students returned to daily study either in-person or virtually. The city's public primary and preschools resumed operation in tandem in September. COVID-19 tests are required on a regular basis for those who come to campus mostly in a cohort A/B model, but medical resources and staff are obviously short of the demand from the school district, one of the largest in the country. AGGRESSIVE ENFORCEMENT In addition, Cuomo said that heavy-handed enforcement would be carried out from Monday on, as the observance of anti-pandemic rules has been weak which will in turn fuel the spread of COVID-19. "NYS will be doing aggressive enforcement starting tomorrow," he tweeted, for "local governments have not done an effective job of enforcement in these hotspot ZIP codes." However, the state cannot take over effective enforcement for every jurisdiction. If a local jurisdiction cannot or will not perform effective enforcement of violating entities, notify the state and it will close all business activity in hotspots where local government cannot do compliance, he said. "As we saw with bars and restaurants, when the state initiated enforcement actions compliance greatly increased," he added. The infection rate in New York state has been above 1 percent for days, which has been considered to have set a trend of uptick. According to the Center for Systems Science and Engineering at Johns Hopkins University, U.S. coronavirus cases topped 7.4 million and the death toll is approaching 210,000 as of Sunday afternoon. New York remains one of the worst-hit states in the country. Enditem PLYMOUTH, Minn., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The mail in voting system is flawed and imperfect. It is fraught with abuse, incompetent and potential criminality that could plunge this nation into a constitutional crisis, the likes it's never seen in its youthful 240+ year history. The current situation has already illustrated a dangerous lack of oversight and supervision that will eventually lead to fraud, chaos and a tear in the constitutional fabric of our great nation. Whywould.com LLC WhyWould.com is spearheading a drive to seek a million patriotic signatures to prevent the current drive for mass mail-in voting during the coming election. There is still time to persuade the national board of elections to curtail and possibly halt all mail in voting this year. Voting by mail without a secure and methodical oversight encourages voter fraud, intimidation and the further erosion of our constitutional protections afforded the sanctity of the secret ballot process. If it were held to the same standard as the absentee ballot system verified via a photo ID and proof of eligibility, there would be no need for this action. However, if an ID is required to cash a check, board a plane, purchase everyday items including food, prescriptions and or to gain entry into a secured building. Voting is the tenant upon which this great nation was founded not afforded the same respect and attention? There is simply, no justification for denying this most basic and fundamental right only American citizens are afforded. At the time of this release, there have already been instances of blatant fraud involving mail-in voting throughout battleground states. Our servicemen and women have been denied their casted ballots in a flagrant attempt to nullify their voices and some have proactively resorted to the illegal harvesting of ballots in favor of a particular ideology. We need to prevent this fraud before it turns to chaos and we are counting on one million patriots across the nation to sign our petition and make their voices heard. For more info, visit: https://www.whywould.com/ To Sign the Petition visit: https://www.change.org/p/the-white-house-of-the-united-states-of-america-stop-the-mail-in-vote Media Contact: Michael Kauffman [email protected] 612-850-5936 WHYWOULD.COM / Question EVERYTHING SOURCE Whywould.com LLC Saying their fight for justice is not over, attorneys for Breonna Taylor's family asked the governor of Kentucky to appoint a new special prosecutor to reopen the case and slammed state Attorney General Daniel Cameron for "intentionally" not presenting homicide charges against three white officers who fatally shot the 26-year-old Black woman in her own apartment. The request was made in an open letter to Gov. Andy Beshear, and came a day after the public release of 15 hours of recordings of a three-day grand jury hearing which resulted in one officer being indicted on wanton endangerment charges, but not for Taylor's death. "Unfortunately, Cameron did not serve as an unbiased prosecutor in this case and intentionally did not present charges to the grand jury that would have pursued justice for Ms. Taylor," reads the letter addressed to Beshear and posted online by attorneys for Taylor's family. One of the attorneys, Benjamin Crump, posted a message on Twitter accompanying a link to the letter, saying, "This fight is NOT OVER! We DEMAND a new special prosecutor reopen #Breonna Taylor's case?" PHOTO: Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear addresses the media following the return of a grand jury investigation into the death of Breonna Taylor at the Kentucky State Capitol in Frankfort, Ky., Sept. 23, 2020. (Timothy D. Easley/AP, FILE) In the letter, the family asks for 10,000 signatures in support of the request, and as of Sunday afternoon, more than 7,800 people had signed. "It is past time for Louisville's and Kentucky's leaders to honor the value of her life by holding those responsible for her death accountable," reads the letter. Beshear, who appointed Cameron to be the special prosecutor in the case, has yet to respond to the letter. On Sept. 23, a Jefferson County grand jury indicted former Louisville police officer Brett Hankison on three counts of wanton endangerment in the first degree in a shooting that killed Breonna Taylor, but neither he nor the other two officers involved in the fatal encounter were charged in her death. The charges against Hankison were connected to bullets he fired that penetrated a wall of Taylor's apartment and went into the residence of a white family next door. Story continues Louisville Metro Police Department officers Myles Cosgrove, Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly and Hankison unleashed a barrage of 32 shots into Taylor's apartment while serving a warrant around 1 a.m. on March 13. PHOTO: Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron, left, leaves a news conference in Frankfort, Ky., Sept. 24, 2020. (Whitney Curtis/The New York Times via Redux Pictures, FILE) Cameron said Cosgrove, who fired 16 times into Taylor's apartment, and Mattingly, who fired six times, were found justified in their use of deadly force because Taylor's boyfriend, Kenneth Walker, fired one shot at them first when they forced open the apartment door, hitting Mattingly in the upper thigh. At a news conference following the grand jury's announcement, Cameron said, "This justification bars us from pursuing chargers in Breonna Taylor's death." Cameron said last week that the only charge prosecutors recommended to the grand jury was wanton endangerment against Hankison, who was fired from the Louisville Metro Police Department in June for violating department policies during the shooting. Hankison pleaded not guilty to the chargers during his arraignment on Sept. 28. Jefferson County Circuit Court Judge Ann Bailey Smith ordered Cameron's office to release the recordings of the grand jury hearing as part of discovery in Hankison's case. On Friday, Cameron's office released 15 hours of more than 20 hours of recordings of what prosecutors presented to the grand jury. Cameron said he was "confident" that the recordings would show that his office presented a thorough case. MORE: $12 million settlement reached in fatal Kentucky police shooting of Breonna Taylor "I'm confident that once the public listens to the recordings, they will see that our team presented a thorough case to the Jefferson County Grand Jury," Cameron said in a statement. "Our presentation followed the facts and the evidence, and the Grand Jury was given a complete picture of the events surrounding Ms. Taylor's death on March 13th." Much of the controversy in the high-profile case has centered on whether police officers knocked on Taylor's door and identified themselves as police before using a battering ram to force open Taylor's door. Walker claimed the officer neither knocked nor announced themselves before barging into the apartment. In a civil suit against the city and police department, Walker claimed he fired a warning shot with his licensed 9mm handgun because he thought the police officers were intruders. PHOTO: Breonna Taylor, 26, was shot and killed by Louisville, Kentucky, police officers after they allegedly executed a search warrant of the wrong home. (Breonna Taylor Family) But Cameron said statements by the officers that they knocked and announced themselves were corroborated by one independent witness who was near Taylor's apartment when the warrant was being executed. Lawyers for Taylor's family say there are at least 11 other witnesses who never heard police knock on Taylor's door and make their presence known before entering the apartment. A judge approved a "no-knock" warrant based on a sworn affidavit from a detective that an ex-boyfriend of Taylor's was sending packages of drugs to her apartment through the U.S. Postal Service. No drugs were found in Taylor's apartment and lawyers for Taylor's family allege the warrant was secured with an affidavit that contained lies. MORE: Breonna Taylor shooting case: Hankison indicted on wanton endangerment of neighbors During the grand jury hearing, detectives testified that although they obtained a "no-knock warrant," officers were told to knock and announce themselves because they were informed in a pre-raid briefing that Taylor's goddaughter might be in the apartment. The detectives also conceded that Taylor's ex-boyfriend, the target of the raid, was already in custody by the time officers arrived at Taylor's apartment. Hankison, Mattingly, Cosgrove and other officers involved in serving the search warrant all testified that they knocked on the door several times and announced they were police before entering the apartment. MORE: Ballistics report raises questions in Breonna Taylor shooting During his testimony before the grand jury, Mattingly said that when he entered the apartment he saw a man and a woman at the end of a hall and that the man was in a shooting stance. He testified that he heard a "boom" and "I can feel the heat in my leg." At that, he said, he returned fire. The grand jury also heard a recording of an interview police conducted with Cosgrove. In the interview, Cosgrove said he was standing in the threshold of Taylor's front door and was "immediately overwhelmed with bright flashes and darkness" and saw Mattingly fall to the ground. He said he opened fire upon noticing a "larger than normal human shadow" in the darkened apartment. Cameron said Taylor was hit six times by bullets fired by Mattingly and Cosgrove, and that an FBI ballistics analysis showed that the fatal shot that hit Taylor came from Cosgrove's gun. Prior to the grand jury's decision, the city of Louisville agreed to pay Taylor's family $12 million to settle a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Taylor's mother. The settlement also requires the city to institute a series of reforms in the police department in an attempt to ensure that a similar tragedy does not occur, including an overhaul of how officers obtain search warrants. Attorneys for Breonna Taylor's family ask Kentucky governor to appoint new special prosecutor originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Crowdcube co-founder and CEO Darren Westlake. Crowdcube LONDON British start-up investing platforms Crowdcube and Seedrs are set to merge in an industry-shaking deal that will create a 140 million ($181.4 million) equity crowdfunding powerhouse. Crowdcube and Seedrs, founded in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, shook up the capital markets by allowing the general public to buy shares in early-stage companies to help them raise money. That has allowed many start-ups including financial apps Revolut and Monzo and upstart brewer BrewDog to raise capital without having to tap venture capital or angel investors directly. The two companies which are both loss-making announced Monday that Crowdcube would acquire all outstanding share capital of Seedrs, with Crowdcube's existing shareholders owning 60% of the combined company while Seedrs' investors will own 40%. Crowdcube is valued at 84 million based on its most recent fundraising round while Seedrs is valued at 56 million, meaning the combined company will be worth around 140 million. Seedrs boss Jeff Kelisky will serve as CEO of the combined company, the firms announced, and Crowdcube chief Darren Westlake will serve as executive chairman. "We've known each other for quite long period of time," Westlake told CNBC in a call, adding that talks began with Seedrs co-founder Jeff Lynn as early as 2017. "It's been a long process for us internally; but also externally, the observers of the market have seen the benefits of putting the two companies together." Westlake and Kelisky said both their businesses had experienced increased demand during the coronavirus pandemic with the third quarter marking a "record" for Crowdcube as start-ups under strain looked to crowdfunding as an alternative to traditional fundraising methods. "Businesses are needing capital to get though this period, and a lot of investors want to support them through that," Kelisky told CNBC. "So we've seen a robust period, in part driven by that need." Though neither executive was able to discuss integration between their platforms, Westlake said the long-term goal was to "attack the global market for equity crowdfunding" as one company rather than two separate businesses. Reaction Charles Delingpole, co-founder and CEO of London-based regulatory technology start-up ComplyAdvantage, called the merger a "fantastic outcome" that will "bring together two extremely strong equity fundraising platforms and greatly benefit investors with increased scale, liquidity and choice." "The duplication from running two parallel exchanges is suboptimal, and having a single champion exchange will ensure that more can be invested in a great range of functionality and opportunities for all stakeholders," Delingpole told CNBC. Kathmandu, Oct 5 : Nepal government authorities have restricted people from meeting Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli after five aides and 70 security personnel deployed at his official residence tested positive for the novel coronavirus. On Saturday, Oli's Chief Adviser Bishnu Rimal, Foreign Affairs Adviser Rajan Bhattarai, Press Adviser Surya Thapa, Chief Personal Secretary Indra Bhandari and photographer at the prime minister's private secretariat Rajan Kafle tested positive for the virus, The Himalayan Times reported. In a statement on Sunday, the premier's communication expert Ram Sharan Bajgai, said: "We have suggested that the prime minister refrain from meeting people in person, unless it is very urgent." The country's main opposition Nepali Congress has also closed its central office for five days after some senior leaders of the party were infected. On Sunday, NC Spokesperson Bishwa Prakash Sharma said that the office will remain closed until October 8. The party's Central Working Committee meeting slated for Monday has been stalled until further notice as a result. On Sunday, Nepal reported 2,253 new coronavirus cases, taking the nationwide tally to 86,823, reports The Himalayan Times citing official figures. Seven new fatalities were also reported, which increased the death toll to 535. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Former Sunday Telegraph editor Sir Peregrine Worsthorne - who caused a storm when he uttered the F-word on national television - has died at the age of 96. The journalist, writer and broadcaster spent 36 years with the Telegraph - the majority of which was with the Sunday edition, which he edited for three years between 1986 and 1989. Mr Worsthorne, universally known as 'Perry', had previously worked at the Times and the Glasgow Herald. In an obituary published today, the Telegraph described Mr Worsthorne, who died on Friday, as being' among the most unpredictable and provocative columnists of his generation, as well as the most stylish'. His unpredictability was famously highlighted in March 1973 when he uttered the F-word on television. Journalist, writer and broadcaster Sir Peregrine Worsthorne spent 36 years with the Telegraph - the majority of which was with the Sunday edition, which he edited for three years between 1986 and 1989 At the time he only the second person to do so, after Kenneth Tynan. The incident happened on BBC magazine programme Nationwide when Mr Worsthorne was asked what he thought the British public would think about then defence minister Lord Anthony Lambton being caught in bed with two prostitutes in a sting by the now-defunct News of the World. He replied: 'I shouldnt think they give a f***.' The comment was said at the time to have infuriated the Telegraph's then owner - who banned him from broadcasting for several months - while the incident landed on the front page of all the morning newspapers the next day. The BBC, who were said to have been 'bombarded by protests', made an apology. Mr Worsthorne (pictured with wife Lucinda Lambton), universally known as 'Perry', had previously worked at the Times and the Glasgow Herald before joining the Telegraph However, Mr Worsthorne later defended his comment, saying: 'There is a possibility it was not spontaneous. To the best of my knowledge it was the mot juste (the exact right word).' Born in Chelsea, London, on December 22, 1923, was the younger son of General Alexander Lexy Koch de Gooreynd, a Belgian banker who had served his country in World War One. His mother was Priscilla Reyntiens, a London councillor and board member and supporter of mental health institutions, who was the granddaughter of the 12th Earl of Abingdon. His parents separated when he was six and he scarcely saw his father again. His mother later married Montagu Norman, the then governor of the Bank of England. Mr Worsthorne attended the independent Stowe School in Buckinghamshire before winning a scholarship to Cambridge University. The Second World War broke out during his studies and he was called up to the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry - but injured his shoulder in training. After recovering, he returned to war service, taking part in Operation Phantom during the Allied campaign in Italy, before finishing his studies at Cambridge. He earned his first job in journalism at the Glasgow Herald in 1946, working there for two years before moving on to the Times. He became a correspondent in Washington from 1950 to 1952, before joining the Telegraph in 1953. In 1961, Mr Worsthorne was appointed as the first deputy editor of the new Sunday Telegraph, rejecting an offer of an editorship at the Yorkshire Post in the process - a decision he expressed some regret about in later autobiographies. Mr Worsthorne, who was knighted in 1991 for services to journalism, was married twice. After his first wife died in 1990, he married the architectural writer Lucinda Lambton (pictured with him receiving his honour in 1991) Mr Worsthorne was an associate editor of the paper between 1976 and 1986, before finally realising his dream of becoming the editor of The Sunday Telegraph that year. He was demoted three years later by the Telegraph's chief executive Andrew Knight. Mr Worsthorne continued writing a column for the paper until 1997. During his time at the Telegraph, Mr Worsthorne, a life-long Conservative supporter, showed support for a return to colonisation, mourned the decline of the British Empire and was criticised for his views on homosexuality. He wrote an editorial piece in 1982 criticising politician Roy Jenkins for his tolerance of 'queers' and clashed with Sir Ian McKellen during a BBC Radio Three debate - prompting the actor to announce that he was gay. He also clashed with Andrew Neil, then the editor of the Sunday Times, after he wrote a column comparing modern editors to playboys - which centred on Mr Neil's relationship with former Miss India, Pamella Bordes. Mr Neil sued for defamation and was awarded 1,000, while his newspaper, which also sued, was awarded its then cover price of 60p. Mr Worsthorne later said he was 'teasing' and that he did not expect Mr Neil to sue. Mr Worsthorne, who was knighted in 1991 for services to journalism, was married twice, first to Claudie Bertrande Baynham, in 1950, with whom he had a daughter, Dominique, and stepson David. After his wife died in 1990, he married the architectural writer Lucinda Lambton. The couple lived in Buckinghamshire. In a statewide crackdown on child pornographers, the cyber wing of Kerala police on Monday arrested 41 people, including some IT professionals, and registered 268 cases, said additional director general of police Manoj Abraham. Most of the arrested were found to be using all kinds of encrypted handles to upload and download such material and circulating them on social media platforms. Many electronic devices and phones were seized from them. Some of the arrested include IT professionals. The accused were identified and arrested with the help of Cyberdom (specialised wing of cyber police), Interpol and other agencies, said Abraham. Most of the seized material pertains to children between the age group of 6-15 years. Officials have code-named the operation P Hunt 20.2 and carried out intense searches at various places across the state in the last three weeks. The biggest impact of the pandemic, besides health issues, is online crime. True, lockdown has increased digital usage and this also spiked use in pornography, especially involving minor children. Many think that darknet use will go unnoticed but they are mistaken. In many cases, it looks like sickness that requires medical treatment as many are repeat offenders, said Abraham, a decorated specialised officer in cyber crime. During the raid, Cyberdom also found that some of the users had formatted their smart phones every three days to avoid detection. Use of malwares to activate the webcams of the victim and to steal information of children was also detected. Many obscene pictures, videos inside homes have been uploaded in recent times, which clearly show that most of the pictures have been taken from Kerala, he said, adding abuse of children locked up in their homes was quite evident in many cases. Last year, the Kerala police had constituted a special wing called Counter Child Sex Exploitation (CCSE) with special emphasis on preventing online child exploitation and child pornography. The team works in close contact with different agencies - Interpol, Crime Against Children unit and International Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (ICMEC). Watching and sharing child pornographic images, videos and literature is a crime in the country and offence can invite a five-year-jail term and maximum fine of 10 lakh. An exceptionally rare Islamic gold coin from the Ghorid dynasty, dating from the early 13th century is estimated to fetch 200,000 300,000 ($259,625-$389,535) when it comes under the hammer of specialist auctioneers Morton and Eden in London in London on October 22, 2020. Specially struck for presentation, the coin measures approximately 46mm (more than an inch and a half) and weighs a hefty 45g of pure gold. The reason it is expected to fetch such a high price is due to the fact that it is the only known example of one of these magnificent presentation coins to bear the sole name of one of the most famous Ghorid Sultans Muizz Al-Din Muhammad bin Sam (567-602h), also known as Muhammad of Ghor. Stephen Lloyd of Morton & Eden explains: This outstanding, large gold coin is of significant historical importance to the Islamic world and especially to India. This is because the man who issued it, Muizz al-Din, is credited as having laid the foundations for subsequent centuries of Muslim rule in the Indian Subcontinent. Muizz al-Din Muhammad was born in Ghor, now the heart of present-day Afghanistan. Together with his elder brother, Ghiyath al-Din Muhammad, they created a vast Ghurid empire stretching from Northern India in the East to the margins of the Caspian Sea in the West. It is Muizz al-Dins successful campaigns in India for which he is most well-known today. As swathes of Indian territories fell under his command he quickly set about establishing Islam there, replacing existing temples with mosques and introducing Islamic precepts and legal principles. As a consequence he is widely acknowledged as having changed the course of Indian history. When Ghiyath al-Din Muhammad died in 599h (1202), Muizz al-Din succeeded him as sole Ghorid Sultan until he was assassinated in the Punjab in 602h (1206). While there are similar gold coins minted at Ghazna for the years of 597h and 598h, also carefully struck to the weight of 10-mithqals/dinars, these bear the names of both Sultan brothers. This coin, however, struck a few years later in 601h (1205AD) after Ghiyath Al-Din Muhammads death, is the only one of its type to bear the sole name of Muizz Al Din. Why this magnificent medallion was produced is not known for certain, although it carries the date 601h (1205), the year when the whole of Hindustan came under Muizz al-Dins sway. Steve Lloyd of Morton & Eden said: This is a truly special coin. It was struck to celebrate and acknowledge the power and greatness of Muizz al Din (Muhammad of Ghor) at the height of his achievements in India. This is the first time that this great rarity has been seen at public auction, having been in a European private collection for decades. -- Tradearabia News Service The Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP) has observed with grave concern the activities of some criminal elements operating in the Volta Region under the guise of secessionism and attempting to derail the peace, unity and security of the state. We find the unwarranted destruction of property, especially the burning down of buses belonging to the State Transport Company (STC), brutalization of security personnel at STC bust terminal, road blocks and other criminal activities by these elements as a serious threat to state security and peace. The party salutes the security agencies for their swift intervention that quelled the disruptive activities of these so-called secessionist gangs and aborted the burning down of the Ho Market and other heinous crimes that the criminals intended to execute. The GCPP believes that the security agencies must not allow these unscrupulous cowards to have the slightest breathing space to engage in any further activity because Ghana cannot afford to live with such threats, especially going into the December polls. It is also incumbent on the people of the area and Ghanaians in general to be on the lookout and provide information about the activities of all suspicious persons to the security agencies to enable them trail the criminals and nib in the bud any further attacks. The security agencies are doing very well by providing protection for the area and gathering intelligence but they will be able to do more if people volunteer information. GCPP implores the government not to relent in its efforts to fish out these bad nuts and go further to unveil all individuals and groups behind such so-called secessionists and bring them to book to serve as deterrent to others with similar intentions. Ghana must declare zero tolerance for such elements. It should not deal with these criminals in kid gloves through dialogue and negotiations because any attempt to sit with these elements will strengthen their resolve to entrench their activities and spread their tentacles to become an albatross around the neck of the state. The continuous provision of adequate and prompt information from government is crucial at this juncture to prevent speculation and rumours that will lead to misinformation, fear and panic. Timely provision of information will also make assurance doubly sure that government is on top of the situation and that nothing untoward will be allowed to occur. The state must endeavour to consult and collaborate with major stakeholders such as the traditional authorities, social groups, religious organisations and community leaders to send a strong signal that these hoodlums have no room in any part of the country to operate. The party pays glowing tribute to all groups that have condemned these gangs, especially the chiefs and people from the area. Another way of sending a strong and unambiguous message to these nation wreckers that their criminal activities have no room in the current democratic dispensation is for all political parties to condemn these acts and support government in its moves in dealing with these criminals. Ghana cannot afford to relent in its efforts at protecting its peace, security, stability, unity and democratic credentials that have earned it international accolades and positioned the country as a thriving democratic state. The GCPP commend and support the efforts by the Akufo-Addo-led government so far in dealing with these criminals which has calmed nerves. SIGNED: OCTOBER 1, 2020 DR HENRY HERBERT LARTEY PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE AND LEADER GCPP ACCRA TEL: 020-813-6813 Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video New Delhi: Researchers at the Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) have developed a saliva-based testing kit to detect COVID-19 which can display results within an hour, a statement from the varsity said on Monday. The team of scientists from Multidisciplinary Centre for Advanced Research and Studies (MCARS) at JMI along with experts from other institutes have developed a RNA extraction free saliva-based detection technology for COVID-19, it said. A person can put their saliva sample into the kit and within an hour, it will display the results. The researchers are also planning to link it to a mobile application so that if the person is not able to infer the results on the kit, then the app will alert him with the results, researchers said. The technology is named MI-SEHAT (Mobile Integrated Sensitive Estimation and High- specificity Application for Testing) and can be used as point of care (POC) device for COVID-19 detection in the field with a provision for at-home testing, the statement said. Dr Mohan C Joshi, an expert who is part of the team, claimed that the smartphone-enabled POC prototype has been developed and validated using synthetic SARS-CoV-2 RNA, which displays results within an hour without the intervention of a technical expert. He said in such a difficult time when the rapid diagnosis of COVID-19 remains the effective measure to contain and manage the viral spread, cost-effective rapid testing of SARS-CoV-2 RNA remains the gold standard. The available standalone or integrated PCR-based detection kit remains confined to the sophisticated instrumental diagnostic laboratory setup and takes minimum two to three hours in providing the result with the need for error- prone RNA extraction step," he said. PhD students, MD Iqbal Azmi and Md Imam Faizan at MCARS, JMI have benchmarked all the experiments in the laboratory which has helped the team to develop the prototype. JMI Vice Chancellor Professor Najma Akhtar said being a user-friendly technology, MI-SEHAT will encourage home testing and thus will restrict interaction and movement of COVID-19 positive patients outside the home. Further, it will reduce exposure of our healthcare professionals to COVID-19 positive patients who are directly or indirectly engaged in testing," she said. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor There certainly will be people who wonder if this was close contact or not, said a medical expert advising the Biden campaign who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the matter frankly. Recognizing that no rules are right 100 percent of the time, and not everyone will always agree, in this case the vice president was really following the best of the public health guidance. WASHINGTON The Supreme Court, awaiting the result of a partisan confirmation battle, opened its new term on Monday with a fitting argument on the impact of politics on judicial appointments. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. opened the session, which took place by telephone in light of the coronavirus pandemic, with a tribute to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died last month. We at the court will remember her as a dear friend and a treasured colleague, he said. In the argument that followed, the eight remaining justices considered whether states may take account of the political affiliations of judges to try to achieve something like ideological balance on their courts. The case concerned Delaware, whose court system is both widely admired and idiosyncratic. The states Constitution includes two unusual provisions. One says that judges affiliated with any one political party cannot make up more than a bare majority of the states five main courts. The other says that only judges affiliated with one of the two major parties may sit on the Delaware Supreme Court and two other courts. Every year over 200,000 people are diagnosed with leprosy worldwide, over 125,000 of whom are Indians. Leprosy is still a public health problem in many countries, even though a free cure has been available for four decades. After infection, symptoms can take as long as five years to appear. Meanwhile, individuals may carry and transmit the infection without realising it. Therefore, preventive treatment is needed to keep the disease from developing in infected individuals and stop transmission to others. The Stop the Transmission of Leprosy! Project The Stop the Transmission of Leprosy! Project, focuses on early detection of leprosy and preventive treatment of people who have frequent and close contact with persons affected by leprosy. The project aims to reach a total of around 800,000+ contacts of persons already diagnosed with leprosy in India, Indonesia and Brazil. Of all new leprosy patients, 80% occur in these three countries together. The project is funded by the Dutch Postcode Lottery through its Dream Fund. Duane Hinders, Programme Manager NLR, emphasizes the importance: "We are fighting an age-old infectious disease in high-endemic regions in the middle of this COVID-19 pandemic, which is also very much present in the districts we operate in. It is critical to take advantage of the heightened awareness of public health among persons in these communities to reduce both conditions." Enhanced preventive regimen (PEP++) The project, designed by NLR in collaboration with national stakeholders, aims to stop the transmission of leprosy by using a package of innovative tools and best practices. Among them, enhanced preventive medication, called PEP++. The medication will be administered to a random sample of close contacts in multiple doses. These people are more likely to harbour a higher number of leprosy bacilli than the general population or may be infected without any visible symptoms yet. The current preventive regimen, called SDR-PEP, reduces the risk of leprosy among contacts of new patients by 57%. With the new PEP++ regimen, contacts will receive three doses with a combination of rifampicin and clarithromycin. With this, it is expected that the treatment will be 80-90% effective resulting in a drop of annual new patients within project areas by 50% at the end of the five-year project. Ceremonial first dose in Chandauli and Fatehpur In each country, two high-endemic districts or municipalities have been selected. In these districts, mapping of the population at risk of contracting leprosy and perception studies about attitudes and practices towards the disease have already been conducted. In India these are Chandauli and Fatehpur in Uttar Pradesh state. The first contacts will start the new preventive treatment soon after the launch meeting. To reflect on this unique moment, on October 2 2020, in Chandauli and Fatehpur, we celebrate the starting point of what we expect to be a successful strategy to end leprosy transmission. "In its quest to contribute to achieve zero leprosy transmission, NLR is happy to conduct the multi-country PEP++ study in partnership with a wide range of governmental, university and social stakeholders in India," says Mr. Jan van Berkel (CEO NLR). NLR: until No Leprosy Remains NLR takes pride in enabling research and driving evidence-based innovation to achieve zero transmission, zero disability and zero discrimination due to leprosy. We are known as an organisation that is passionate about ending leprosy and keeps going until breakthroughs are ready to be implemented. NLR is transitioning into an alliance with independent offices in India, Mozambique, Indonesia, Brazil, Nepal and the Netherlands. A worldwide total of 200 employees work together to achieve our shared mission to stop leprosy. We continue our efforts until No Leprosy Remains. More information: www.nlrinternational.org/stoptransmission SOURCE NLR It looks like PZ Cussons Plc (LON:PZC) is about to go ex-dividend in the next 2 days. Investors can purchase shares before the 8th of October in order to be eligible for this dividend, which will be paid on the 3rd of December. PZ Cussons's next dividend payment will be UK0.031 per share, on the back of last year when the company paid a total of UK0.058 to shareholders. Last year's total dividend payments show that PZ Cussons has a trailing yield of 2.4% on the current share price of 2.38. Dividends are a major contributor to investment returns for long term holders, but only if the dividend continues to be paid. We need to see whether the dividend is covered by earnings and if it's growing. See our latest analysis for PZ Cussons If a company pays out more in dividends than it earned, then the dividend might become unsustainable - hardly an ideal situation. Last year PZ Cussons paid out 104% of its profits as dividends to shareholders, suggesting the dividend is not well covered by earnings. That said, even highly profitable companies sometimes might not generate enough cash to pay the dividend, which is why we should always check if the dividend is covered by cash flow. Thankfully its dividend payments took up just 32% of the free cash flow it generated, which is a comfortable payout ratio. It's good to see that while PZ Cussons's dividends were not covered by profits, at least they are affordable from a cash perspective. If executives were to continue paying more in dividends than the company reported in profits, we'd view this as a warning sign. Very few companies are able to sustainably pay dividends larger than their reported earnings. Click here to see the company's payout ratio, plus analyst estimates of its future dividends. Have Earnings And Dividends Been Growing? Businesses with shrinking earnings are tricky from a dividend perspective. If earnings fall far enough, the company could be forced to cut its dividend. PZ Cussons's earnings per share have fallen at approximately 15% a year over the previous five years. When earnings per share fall, the maximum amount of dividends that can be paid also falls. Story continues The main way most investors will assess a company's dividend prospects is by checking the historical rate of dividend growth. PZ Cussons's dividend payments are broadly unchanged compared to where they were 10 years ago. When earnings are declining yet the dividends are flat, typically the company is either paying out a higher portion of its earnings, or paying out of cash or debt on the balance sheet, neither of which is ideal. To Sum It Up Is PZ Cussons an attractive dividend stock, or better left on the shelf? It's never great to see earnings per share declining, especially when a company is paying out 104% of its profit as dividends, which we feel is uncomfortably high. Yet cashflow was much stronger, which makes us wonder if there are some large timing issues in PZ Cussons's cash flows, or perhaps the company has written down some assets aggressively, reducing its income. With the way things are shaping up from a dividend perspective, we'd be inclined to steer clear of PZ Cussons. With that in mind though, if the poor dividend characteristics of PZ Cussons don't faze you, it's worth being mindful of the risks involved with this business. Case in point: We've spotted 2 warning signs for PZ Cussons you should be aware of. If you're in the market for dividend stocks, we recommend checking our list of top dividend stocks with a greater than 2% yield and an upcoming dividend. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com. New Delhi: Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Harsh Vardhan on Sunday (October 4, 2020) said that the central government is planning to receive and utilize 400-500 mllion COVID-19 vaccine doses which will cover around 20-25 crore people by July 2021. Harsh Vardhan announced this while responding to questions posed by his social media interactors in the fourth episode of his 'Sunday Samvaad'. He said that the Health Ministry is currently preparing a format in which States will submit lists of priority population groups to receive the vaccine, especially health workers engaged in the management of COVID-19. The list of frontline health workers will include both government as well as private-sector doctors, nurses, paramedics, sanitary staff, ASHA workers, surveillance officers and many other occupational categories who are involved in tracing, testing and treatment of patients. The Minister informed that this exercise is targeted to be completed by the end of this October and the States are being closely guided to also submit details about cold chain facilities and other related infrastructure which will be required down to the block level. "The Centre is also working on plans for building capacities in HR, training, supervision etc on a massive scale and roughly estimates to receive and utilise 400-500 million doses covering approximately 20-25 crore people by July 2021," stated the Union Health Minister. #SundaySamvaad States given time upto end-Oct to submit lists of priority population groups for receiving #COVID19 vaccine, where priority shall be given to health workers. We expect to receive & utilise 400-500 million doses & cover approx 20-25 crore people by July 2021. pic.twitter.com/po5Q4YyyDR Dr Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) October 4, 2020 He further informed that the Government is also keeping an eye on immunity data with regard to COVID-19 disease while finalizing these plans. He stated that there is a high-level committee under the chairmanship of Niti Aayog Member (Health) VK Paul which is drawing up the entire process. Vaccine procurement is being done centrally and each consignment will be tracked real-time until delivery to ensure it reaches those who need it most. He added that these Committees are working on understanding the timelines of availability of various vaccines in the country, obtaining commitments from vaccine manufacturers to make the available maximum number of doses for India inventory & supply chain management and also on prioritisation of high-risk groups. "This is work in progress which will be completed by the time the vaccines are ready to ensure the swift roll-out of the immunisation program," said Vardhan. "Vaccines will be distributed as per pre-decided priority and in a programmed manner. To ensure transparency and accountability, details of the entire process will be shared in the coming months," he added. He stressed the need to prioritize health care workers and adults or those who have underlying health conditions. Answering similar questions, he said that it is not possible to comment on the superiority of one vaccine over the other although he would ensure that even if we have multiple vaccines available, they will all be safe and will elicit the requisite immune response against novel coronavirus. He said that all vaccines that have proven to be safe, immunogenic and efficacious in clinical trials outside India need to undergo bridging studies to prove their safety and immunogenicity in the Indian population as well although these studies can be conducted with much smaller sample size and end quickly. While tackling a question on the level playing field for various clinical trials, Harsh Vardhan shared that all proposed clinical trials in India are designed using set principles and are stringently reviewed by the Subject Expert Committee set up by the Drug Controller General of India. Recently, the DCGI has also formulated draft guidelines on regulatory requirements for licensure of COVID-19 vaccines in India. On a question regarding Phase 3 Clinical Trial of Russias 'Sputnik-V' vaccine in India, Vardhan clarified that the matter is still under consideration, and no decision has been taken as yet on the Phase 3 trials. Stating that adverse events developing after vaccination are common, Harsh Vardhan said that adverse events after vaccination include local reactions such as pain at the injection site, mild fever and redness, anxiety-related such as palpitations, syncope or fainting and that these events are transient, self-limiting and do not affect the protective response of the vaccine. He also detailed on the ethical concerns of Human Challenge Experiments and said, "India is not planning to venture into such trials until the method is proven to have an established benefit as per global experience. India has robust processes in place to ensure the vaccines that successfully complete the clinical trials are safe and effective against the novel coronavirus." "When conducted, human challenge studies should be undertaken with abundant forethought, caution, and oversight. The value of the information to be gained should clearly justify the risks to human subjects," he added. Sharing his views on single-dose vs double-dose vaccines, the Minister accepted that for quick control of a pandemic, it is desirable to have a single-dose vaccine. However, it is often difficult to achieve desired levels of immune protection using a single dose. He added, two-dose vaccines are suitable for attaining the desired immunogenicity as the first dose gives some immune protection, and the second dose augments it further. Live TV Visiting suspended at Isle of Man Prison Visiting at the Isle of Man Prison has been temporarily suspended, following a self-isolating prisoner testing positive for COVID-19 on Saturday. All new entrants to the prison are housed in a separate wing for 14 days before joining the wider prison population. The individual has been kept in self-isolation since their arrest. The Governments contact tracing team has confirmed that the risk to the wider community from this case is extremely low. Minister for Home Affairs, Graham Cregeen MHK, said: We have planned and are fully prepared for cases of COVID-19 at the Isle of Man Prison and have robust and rigorous protocols in place to protect prisoners, staff and visitors. Suspending visiting to the prison is just a precaution to reduce the already minimal risk that the virus could spread. Prison officers assigned to newly arrived inmates in self-isolation are required to wear full PPE, maintain a safe distance, and practice scrupulous hand-washing. Free tests for COVID-19 are available to frontline workers, including prison officers. Contact tracing has already begun to identify people who the affected individual may have come into contact with. Prime Minister Boris Johnson (left) meets US President Donald Trump at the 74th Session of the UN General Assembly, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA. A Joe Biden victory in the US election could improve the state of the special relationship with the UK but the issues surrounding Brexit and the Irish border could throw a spanner in the works, according to an expert. The US-UK relationship has been turbulent under Donald Trump, although he has repeatedly praised Boris Johnson and backed Brexit. A Biden administration is expected to put a much greater focus on international diplomacy including with the UK than the Trump White Houses America first agenda. But in an early sign of trouble that could come if the Democrat wins Novembers election, Mr Biden has already issued a stark warning about Mr Johnsons apparent willingness to tear up the Brexit divorce deal over the measures aimed at addressing issues around the Irish border. We cant allow the Good Friday Agreement that brought peace to Northern Ireland to become a casualty of Brexit. Any trade deal between the U.S. and U.K. must be contingent upon respect for the Agreement and preventing the return of a hard border. Period. https://t.co/Ecu9jPrcHL Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) September 16, 2020 Dr Leslie Vinjamuri, director of the US and the Americas programme at the Chatham House foreign affairs think tank, said Mr Johnsons Government appeared to have been tone deaf over the way Democrats would respond. The UK Internal Market Bill gives ministers the power to break international law by ignoring requirements contained in the Northern Ireland Protocol agreed by Mr Johnson and the EU. Dr Vinjamuri said: Britain and America are incredibly important to each other and there is the best will in the world to make sure that that relationship works, and that will certainly be a key priority for a Biden administration the culture, the history, the intelligence-sharing, the natural collaboration at the level of the executive, this is deep stuff. If Mr Biden wins, there will be an effort to rehabilitate and repair and restore Americas standing in the world and the British are going to be right near the top of the list. But theres still going to be some tough diplomacy on some, you know, regulatory issues, on Ireland, on any number of things that have to be worked through and everybodys just waiting to see exactly whats going to happen between the UK and Europe, Dr Vinjamuri added. Expand Close US President Donald Trump with Boris Johnson at the 2019 G7 summit (Stefan Rousseau/PA) PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp US President Donald Trump with Boris Johnson at the 2019 G7 summit (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Democrats in Congress and in a Biden administration would be extraordinarily committed to the Good Friday Agreement and keeping the Irish border open. The British Government seems to be tone deaf on this right now, they just dont seem to have any great interest in US political pressure on this front, Dr Vinjamuri said. Itll be more interesting to see how Boris Johnson reacts if theres a new US administration with a tough position. I think its pretty clear where the Americans are going on this but its not at all clear where Johnson and co are going. Mr Biden wants the US to again take a leading role in world diplomacy, with plans for a summit for democracy in a bid to unite like-minded nations, in part a response to the rise of China. Its going to be more diplomatic approach to everything, Dr Vinjamuri said, although its such a low bar, its hard to imagine anything but more diplomacy. But after Brexit, there is speculation that Berlin rather than London may be Mr Bidens main focus in Europe. There are a lot of people that think that you know Britains gonna suffer in the transatlantic partnership because America and especially many of many of those on Bidens team are just going to be much more invested in fostering Americas relationship with Germany, Dr Vinjamuri said. I think there is something to that but I think that, you know, at the end of the day America does seem to keep coming back to the UK. The problem is that the UK just, once you leave it, it looks so small and like its getting smaller in terms of its outlook and engagement. If President Trump wins a second term, it could see him emboldened to further distance the US from international allies. The US leader has already said he will pull funding from the World Health Organisation and withdraw from the Paris climate accord. Former national security adviser John Bolton has suggested that Mr Trump could go further and pull the US out of Nato, a move which would have deep repercussions in the UK and across Europe. PART 1: John Bolton, President Trump's former National Security Advisor, has told @timesradio that if he wins a second term he could pull the US out of NATO, and that the UK should tell the European Court to stuff it over the Brexit deal.@JPonpolitics | @AmbJohnBolton pic.twitter.com/bq8OHIMEuC Times Radio (@TimesRadio) October 1, 2020 He told Times Radio that Mr Trump had come close to saying he wanted to withdraw from the alliance which he believes relies too much on US spending in 2018. It wasnt that we convinced him that Nato is actually a pretty good alliance, but that he just saw he couldnt go across the line and actually call for withdrawal. Now, once hes re-elected, that political guardrail if it doesnt disappear entirely its substantially diminished. He doesnt have to worry as much about the US political blowback. A man is fighting for life on the Gold Coast after he was allegedly punched in the face and hit his head on a skip bin as he fell. Police believe three people returned to their vehicle on Barney Street after fishing in a nearby waterway at Southport just after midnight. The man is in a critical condition. Credit:Nine As they put items back in the vehicle, an argument between a 33-year-old man from the group and a 45-year-old male resident from a nearby unit complex. The resident then came outside to the driveway to continue the argument when the 33-year-old man then allegedly punched him in the face, causing him to fall backwards, hit his head on a skip bin and then onto the concrete. By PTI LONDON: A technical glitch has resulted in 15,841 positive cases of coronavirus not being counted in the official daily of COVID-19 log in the past week, England's health authority has admitted. Public Health England (PHE) said the issue had been identified overnight on Friday, and a rapid investigation calculated the list of cases that had gone unreported between September 25 and October 2. However, its chief sought to reassure the British public on Sunday that each of those who had tested received their COVID-19 result as normal and were advised to quarantine as per the current rules. "A technical issue was identified overnight on Friday 2 October in the data load process that transfers COVID-19 positive lab results into reporting dashboards. "After rapid investigation, we have identified that 15,841 cases between 25 September and 2 October were not included in the reported daily COVID-19 cases," said Michael Brodie, Interim Chief Executive of the PHE. "Every one of these cases received their COVID-19 test result as normal and all those who tested positive were advised to self-isolate," he said. Amid mounting criticism, the health authorities stressed that the National Health Service (NHS)-run Test and Trace system for coronavirus had worked to quickly resolve the issue and that the processes have been made further robust. "We fully understand the concern this may cause and further robust measures have been put in place as a result," Brodie said. NHS Test and Trace, and PHE Joint Medical Advisor Susan Hopkins said the majority of the missing cases occurred in recent days, between September 30 and October 2, and that the glitch did not impact the basis on which decisions about localised lockdown action were taken last week. "All outstanding cases were immediately transferred to the contact tracing system by 1 AM on 3 October and a thorough public health risk assessment was undertaken to ensure outstanding cases were prioritised for contact tracing effectively," said Hopkins. "The advice remains the same. If you have tested positive you must self-isolate immediately for at least 10 days from when your symptoms began and we urge everyone who is contacted by NHS Test and Trace to provide details of their recent contacts," she said. The Opposition Labour Party demanded an explanation from UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock over the error. "This is shambolic and people across the country will be understandably alarmed," said Jonathan Ashworth, Labour's shadow health secretary. Hancock is expected to make a statement in the House of Commons to provide a coronavirus update later on Monday. Speaking over the weekend, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted that there had been a "failure in the counting system" but insisted the issue was not ongoing. "All the people who had a positive test have now been notified and I think the data that we have is realistic, and again it's very useful in helping us to identify you know where the incidence is and what we need to do to tackle it," he told the BBC. It comes as a further 22,961 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus were recorded in the UK, bringing the total number of infections to 502,978. Another 33 people were reported to have died within 28 days of testing positive for COVID-19 as of Sunday, taking the death toll to 42,350. A Belfast man who allegedly made 20 nuisance phone calls for ambulances in a 24-hour period "doesn't stop", a court heard today. Peter O'Toole is accused of diverting under-pressure paramedics within weeks of being released from jail for similar offences. Refusing to release the 55-year-old on bail, District Judge Peter Magill warned his alleged actions were tying up essential services. "If I let him out he (could) do this again - he doesn't stop," Mr Magill said. "It would be entirely possible that someone in dire need of medical attention would fail to get it, or fail to get it as quickly as they otherwise would." O'Toole, of Dunluce Avenue, is charged with persistent improper use of a public electronic communications network, and obstructing or hindering ambulance services from responding to emergency circumstances. He allegedly committed the offences between October 2 and 3. Belfast Magistrates' Court heard a total of 20 999 calls for ambulances were made. Police said crews attended O'Toole's home but he then refused to go to hospital. Paramedics may have been left unable to deal with other patients in emergency situations, it was claimed. Defence barrister Danielle McMahon confirmed her client had been released from prison last month for the same behaviour. She told the court her client's actions were fuelled by alcohol and the early death of his brother due to heart problems. "It's a vicious cycle; he has very bad anxiety, he drinks and then he thinks he's going to suffer the same fate as his brother," counsel said. "Because he lives alone he thinks nobody will be able to find him." However, Mr Magill rejected a suggestion that O'Toole could be released on condition that he is banned from using the phone. The judge ruled: "Particularly at this time, when our services are so badly stretched, I must refuse bail." O'Toole was remanded in custody, to appear again in four weeks time. BAKU: The fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces continued on Sunday over the separatist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, with Azerbaijan's second-largest city coming under attack. Azerbaijani officials said Sunday that Armenian forces attacked Ganja, the country's second largest city. Hikmet Hajiyev, an aide to the Azerbaijani president, tweeted a video depicting damaged buildings, and called it the result of Armenia's massive missile attacks against dense residential areas" in Ganja. It wasn't immediately possible to verify the authenticity of the video. Hajiyev said in another tweet that attacks on Ganja and other areas in Azerbaijan were launched from territory of Armenia. Armenia's Defense Ministry said that no fire of any kind is being opened from the territory of Armenia in Azerbaijan's direction. But Nagorno-Karabakh's leader, Arayik Harutyunyan, confirmed on Facebook he ordered rocket attacks to neutralize military objects in Ganja. His spokesman, Vahram Poghosyan, said the territory's army destroyed a military airport in Ganja, a claim Azerbaijani officials denied. The attack on the city killed one civilian and left four others wounded, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry tweeted. Harutyunyan said he ordered his forces to stop the attacks on Ganja to avoid civilian casualties. Nagorno-Karabakh's leader added that 'proportionate and crushing' strikes targeting the opponent's forces would continue, if Azerbaijan fails 'to draw appropriate lessons.' The fighting, which broke out on Septembr 27 and has continued for eight straight days, is the biggest escalation in years in the decades-long dispute over Nagorno-Karabakh. The region lies within Azerbaijan, but is controlled by local ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia. Both sides said the hostilities have spread beyond the breakaway territory and accused each other of attacking areas outside Nagorno-Karabakh. Ganja, with a population of more than 330,000, is located roughly 100 kilometers (about 60 miles) north of Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh's capital. "Opening fire on the territory of Azerbaijan from the territory of Armenia is clearly provocative and expands the zone of hostilities," Azerbaijani Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov said in a statement Sunday. As the fighting resumed Sunday morning, Armenian officials accused Azerbaijan of carrying out strikes on Stepanakert and targeting the civilian population there. Nagorno-Karabakh's leader Harutyunyan said that in response, his forces would target "military facilities permanently located in major cities of Azerbaijan. In a statement issued later on Sunday, Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry rejected accusations of targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. Nagorno-Karabakh officials have said nearly 200 servicemen on their side have died so far. Azerbaijani authorities haven't given details on their military casualties, but said 22 civilians were killed and 74 others were wounded. Nagorno-Karabakh was a designated autonomous region within Azerbaijan during the Soviet era. It claimed independence from Azerbaijan in 1991, about three months before the Soviet Union's collapse. A full-scale war that broke out in 1992 killed an estimated 30,000 people. By the time the war ended in 1994, Armenian forces not only held Nagorno-Karabakh itself but substantial areas outside the territory's formal borders, including Madagiz, the village Azerbaijan claimed to have taken on Saturday along with several others. This week's fighting has prompted calls for a cease-fire from around the world. On Thursday, leaders of Russia, France and the United States co-chairs of the so-called Minsk Group, which was set up by the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe in 1992 to resolve the conflict issued a joint statement calling for an immediate cease-fire and resuming substantive negotiations ... Under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs. Azerbaijani President Ilkham Aliyev said that Armenia's withdrawal from Nagorno-Karabakh is the sole condition to end the fighting. Armenian officials allege that Turkey is involved in the conflict and is sending fighters from Syria to the region. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said earlier this week that "a cease-fire can be established only if Turkey is removed from the South Caucasus." Ankara has denied sending arms or foreign fighters, while publicly siding with Azerbaijan in the dispute. On Sunday, Turkey's Foreign Ministry condemned the attack on Ganja, saying it was proof of Armenia's disregard for the law. Ankara accused Armenia of attacking civilian residential areas, and claimed that Armenia could commit crimes against humanity. "Armenia is the biggest barrier to peace and stability in the region," the ministry said. NORTH KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Wagner Logistics has been awarded the contract for warehousing and transportation of the daily operations by Olin Winchester, LLC for the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence, Missouri (within the Greater Kansas City area) beginning on October 1, 2020. Wagner plans to hire from the pool of employees and will manage the warehousing and transportation operation across the 3,900 acre campus. "Wagner is a top 100 3PL firm; we are known for strong operations and quality service across the country. Wagner's growth over the last five years is a testament to our success in customer partnerships and we expect our partnership with Olin Winchester to be no different. We look forward to working closely with the good people at Winchester." Brian Smith, President & CEO This will be Wagner's 6th location in the area and brings the U.S. footprint to 7 million square feet. During a year filled with challenges around the world, Wagner continues to work with customers to find solutions that meet their needs into today's world. About Wagner Logistics Wagner Logistics is a leading supply chain management provider offering comprehensive distribution centers, fulfillment and transportation services across the U.S. since 1946. Our team provides precise solutions to fit each customer's needs at the speed our customers require. Wagner is driving forward by providing exceptional performance as the industry continues to adapt to customer buying habits. We are eager to tackle your most complex supply chain challenges - Bring it! www.wagnerlogistics.com About Olin Olin Corporation is a leading vertically-integrated global manufacturer, distributor of chemical products and a leading U.S. manufacturer of ammunition. The chemical products produced include chlorine and caustic soda, vinyls, epoxies, chlorinated organics, bleach and hydrochloric acid. Winchester's principal manufacturing facilities produce and distribute sporting ammunition, law enforcement ammunition, reloading components, small-caliber military ammunition and components, and industrial cartridges. Visit www.olin.com for more information on Olin Winchester. About the Lake City Plant The Lake City Plant, which began production in 1941, provides small-caliber military ammunition for both training and combat purposes. The plant, encompassing 3,935 acres, also serves as a national and regional test center for ammunition performance and weapons firing. For information regarding Winchester's Lake City operations visit https://lakecity.winchester.com/ SOURCE Wagner Logistics Related Links https://www.wagnerlogistics.com New Delhi: India has slammed United Nation's Resident Coordinator Renata Lok-Dessallien's comments on Hathras and Balrampur cases, calling them "unwarranted comments". The Ministry of External Affairs added that since the "investigation process is still underway" any "unnecessary comments by an external agency are best avoided". In a strongly-worded statement, the MEA said, "UN Resident Coordinator in India should be aware that these cases have been taken extremely seriously by the government". The MEA reminding the top UN diplomat in Delhi said, "Constitution guarantees equality to all citizens of India. As a democracy we have a time-tested record of providing justice to all sections of our society. The UN resident coordinator had issued a statement on October 9, saying, it is "profoundly saddened and concerned" at the continuing cases of sexual violence against women and girls in India. The statement said, "steps being taken by the Government of India to strengthen safety measures for women and girls are welcome and urgent" and "we support the Prime Ministers call for strict action against the culprits". It, however, added, "entrenched social norms and behaviour of men and boys that lead to gender-based violence must be addressed". The recent case of violence and sexual assault of a Dalit woman in Hathras has led to nation-wide protests and agitations. A 19-year-old woman was allegedly raped at a village in Hathras by four men on September 14. She was admitted to Aligarh Muslim University's Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital and later shifted to a Delhi hospital in an extremely critical condition with spinal injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue. She breathed her last Tuesday. Her body was cremated in the early hours of September 30, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night. Local police officers, however, had said the cremation was carried out "as per the wishes of the family". The security of the family of the Hathras woman, who died a fortnight after being allegedly gang-raped, has been tightened and her brother has been provided with two gunners. "Security has been tightened around the victim's house in Hathras and her family members have also been provided security," Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Awanish Kumar Awasthi told PTI. According to Hathras police, 12-15 PAC personnel have been deployed for "24-hour security" of the family, adding that two security men have been deployed for the brother. Elaborate security has been ensured to prevent any tension in the area. Three SHOs, a deputy SP-rank officer along constables have been deployed in the village, besides women cops for around-the-clock security, said the police, adding that the magistrates are also there to keep an eye on the situation. Meanwhile, the Hathras Police today lodged an FIR against "unknown" persons for alleged attempt to trigger caste-based conflict and invoked serious charges, including sedition. The first information report (FIR) was lodged at the Chandpa police station on Sunday afternoon and names "unknown" as accused, police officials told PTI. The FIR mentions 19 charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The IPC sections include 124A (sedition), 505 (intending to cause public alarm and inducing someone to commit an offence against the state or public tranquillity), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups). Section 67 (transmitting obscene material in electronic form) of the IT Act have also been invoked, according to the FIR. Live TV The Hathras police reportedly registered around a dozen complaints under the IT Act related to the Dalit girl's case and they are being probed by the Cyber Cell. Notably, the state government has already recommended a CBI probe in the matter. In Uttar Pradesh's Balrampur district, a 22-year-old Dalit woman died after allegedly being raped by two men. The victim's mother has alleged that the rapists broke the legs and back of her daughter, but the police did not approve the charge. (TNS) The days of waking up to snowfall and heading back to sleep because school is canceled may be a thing of the past.Students across Michigan are learning virtually this year amid the coronavirus pandemic and inclement weather may no longer stand in the way of getting to class safely.Though many superintendents say snow days arent something to worry about for another couple of months, some students have already taking to social media with jokes about saying goodbye to the cherished break from school with online learning.Bill DiSessa, spokesperson for the Michigan Department of Education, said the states guidance on snow days remains the same for those learning in-person.Virtual students may not be so lucky this year as MDE doesnt anticipate requests for snow days for all-virtual instruction, he said.Districts are offering a mix of in-person and online options. With the establishment of virtual school and distribution of resources to students across Michigan, many are wondering if virtual school will be required on days of inclement weather.Students in Jackson County may do just that. With enough advance warning of inclement weather, Jackson Public Schools administrators can plan a virtual day where students complete school work from home, Superintendent Jeff Beal said.Teachers can preload their students' devices with lessons if they know they might be unable to come to school safely, he said.If we know in advance that a storm is coming we will probably plan for a virtual day, but in the event that the road conditions are unexpectedly dangerous in the morning, we may need to call a snow day which would include both in-school and those students that are at home, Beal said.Some students may not be set up with the proper technology or have WiFi access at home so they cant pivot to virtual school without notice, he said.At the K-12 charter school, da Vinci Institute, in Jackson County, virtual school may be used if bad weather keeps kids from the classroom for multiple days in a row, Superintendent Sandy Maxson said.If we end up with a hard winter with many days, we will not want our kids to go without school work and connections with their teachers too long, she said.In February 2019, stretches of dangerously cold temperatures closed schools and districts quickly used up the grace days allotted to them by the MDE.Michigan law allows districts to be forgiven for six days of closures due to conditions beyond their control such as weather and power outages before having to make up lost instructional days.An additional three days may be granted with the approval of the state superintendent.District leaders are solving a lot of problems that didnt exist in years past, and how to handle snow days is just another unprecedented aspect of 2020.We know it will snow, Lansing School District spokesperson Bob Kolt said.Students in Lansing are currently learning remotely from home while teachers give lessons from inside the classroom, Kolt said. He said administrators are working on plans to bring kids back to the classroom in November.Whether students will be required to learn virtually from home if they cant come to school in-person safely is yet to be decided, he said.In Kent County, the vast majority of the 8,000 students in Rockford Public Schools are learning in-person, Superintendent Michael Shibler said. But for the about 1,000 students learning online from home, instruction could continue despite heavy snowfall or frigid temperatures.Shibler is hopeful he wont see heavy snowfall for another couple of months.I have not made any conclusive decisions," he said.Kalamazoo Public Schools first has to decide whether to transition students to some in-person learning, spokesperson Susan Coney said.If students begin in-person learning at the end of November, the district will create a plan for snow days, Coney said. Currently, the districts about 12,000 students are learning remotely from home on virtual platforms.In the meantime, students can keep the spoons under their pillows and hope for that beloved snow day. Just 15 per cent of transport infrastructure funding announced by the Morrison government before Tuesday's budget will go to Victoria, the state hardest hit by the pandemic and which has 26 per cent of Australias population. But Canberra argues that over the coming decade Victoria will get almost 30 per cent of the nations funding for transport projects more than its fair share. Urban Infrastructure Minister Alan Tudge on Monday announced $1.1 billion in funding for a range of rail and road construction, many in Victoria's regional areas. The projects were negotiated in September between the federal and state governments, with Victoria handing Canberra a list of works it says are ready to start construction. The Morrison government agreed to fund $1.1 billion out of this $1.3 billion "wish list". 5 1 of 5 H John Voorhees III / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 2 of 5 Facebook / Maria Ordonez State Farm Agent Show More Show Less 3 of 5 4 of 5 Google Maps / Google Show More Show Less 5 of 5 DANBURY In recognition of National Fire Safety Month, the citys fire department and a local insurance agency will hold a drive-thru fire safety event this Thursday. The event will take place outside State Farm Insurance agent Maria Ordonezs office at 9 Padanaram Road from 3 to 5:30 p.m. A man was fatally shot following an argument in central Laredo, authorities said. The shooting was reported at about 1 a.m. Sunday at a residence in the 3900 block of San Agustin Avenue. First officers on the scene found a man outside the residence with apparent gunshot wounds to his upper body. Authorities would identify him as David Arnulfo Morales, 33. Morales was taken in critical condition to a local hospital, where he later died due to his injuries. LPD crimes against persons secured the scene and began their investigation. Police said that detectives worked the case throughout the early morning hours and questioned several people regarding the incident. Investigators would identify the suspect as Robert Thomas de Leon, 46, as the person who fatally shot Morales. A preliminary investigation revealed that the men were involved in an argument that escalated into de Leon shooting Morales. Police charged de Leon with murder after consulting with the Webb County District Attorneys Office. De Leon was then taken to the Webb County Jail, where he remained behind bars as of Sunday evening. Morales death was recorded as the citys ninth homicide this year. The payment of stipends to Bachelor of Education students as well as granting them automatic employment after graduation is now a federal government policy, the Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, has said. He said this in Abuja at the commemoration of the World Teachers Day on Monday. President Muhammadu Buhari has also approved a special salary scale for teachers in the country. He also increased the number of years of service from 35 to 40. The education minister, Mr Adamu, who represented President Buhari, said the implementation of the new salary scheme was to encourage teachers in delivering better service. The 2020 theme of the World Teachers Day is Teachers: leading in crisis, reimagining the future. He said teachers have the power to shape and reshape the lives of young people and help learners to enhance their potentials. Only great teachers can produce excellent people and students that will make the future of our country great. A positive or negative influence of a teacher on any child will have an effect on that child. Therefore the federal government is ensuring quality education to access, he said. Mr Buhari also said his administration has resolved that quality education of teachers in terms of engagement of continued professional development has to be given priority. To address these challenges, my administration has approved the following for teachers and the teaching profession. That in order to attract investment in the teaching profession, the quality of the introduction of bursary award has been restored, he said. Promises He said there will be a special pension scheme to enable the teaching profession to retain its experienced talents as well as extend teachers retirement age to 65 years and the duration of teachers years to 40 years. My administrative has resolved that quality education of teachers in terms of engagement of continued professional development has to be given priority, he said. He said there will be Special Salary Scale for Teachers in Basic and Secondary Schools, including provisions for rural posting allowance, science teachers allowance and peculiar allowance. Other promises include building low-cost housing for teachers in rural areas, sponsorship to at least one refresher training per annum to benchmark best practices for improved teaching and learning. Expansion of the annual Presidential Teachers and Schools Awards to cover more categories and for the outstanding, he said. Mr Buhari said he has approved the reintroduction of bursary award to education students in Universities and Colleges of Education with the assurance of automatic employment upon graduation. The payment of stipends to Bachelor of Education students as well as granting them automatic employment after graduation is now a government policy, he said. He said the Tertiary Education Fund (TETFUND) will now fund teaching practice in Universities and Colleges of Education. Similarly, the Minister of State for Education, Chukuemeka Nwajuiba, identified the teaching profession as the greatest profession in the world which must be accorded adequate recognition and respect. In those days, very comfortable and important figures in the society would send their children to a teachers house for grooming. That was the teacher then, he said. According to him, teachers children and those that lived with them became the creme de la creme of the society. The society sadly has tilted towards ephemeral appearances that negate the standard of teachers as role models. We think this should stop. Teachers deserve recognition and respect. The first step is to have qualified teachers in practice. He said the education ministry through the Teachers Registration Council (TRCN) is making concerted efforts to withdraw unqualified teachers from the classroom nationwide. Advertisements Awards The celebration witnessed awards of Best School Administrator, Best Teacher in Public School, Best Teacher in Private School, among others. Olaoluwa Asubiojo from Amoye Grammar School, Ikere Ekiti in Ekiti State won the best overall teachers in Public schools while Istifanus Caroline from ECWAs L Crawford, Kaltungo in Gombe State emerged the overall winner. NUT speaks Speaking earlier, the national president of NUT, Nasir Idris, said the N30,000 minimum wage approved for all Nigerian workers since April 2019 is yet to be implemented for teachers in some states and the Federal Capital Territory. We call for the implementation of the minimum wage to all Teachers in Nigeria without further delay. The NUT wishes to reiterate her call on relevant authorities to ensure that the 27.5% professional allowance is paid to teachers of Federal government-owned schools and colleges, he said. However, most of the teachers who spoke with PREMIUM TIMES said they were happy with President Buharis new directive on a salary structure and year of service. If anyone ever asks Carlsbad retiree Judy Ludwig her husband Rons whereabouts, she could easily respond with the song lyric that hes been working on the railroad, all the live long day. Around the La Costa Glen retirement community, 82-year-old Ron Ludwig is known as the train man. Most days, the retired Navy pilot can be found working for many hours on one of his finely handcrafted HO scale electric model train layouts. He has filled three garages with an enormous train layout and workshop and this year he was commissioned by La Costa Glen to build an 8-by-3-foot, holiday-themed train system for the community clubhouse. 1 / 10 Ron Ludwig, a resident of the La Costa Glen retirement community in Carlsbad, watches as the HO scale electric model train, on display in the lobby of the Lakeside Clubhouse, goes around the track. He built the set over the past year. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 2 / 10 Ron Ludwig, a resident of the La Costa Glen retirement community, checks to make sure one of his HO scale electric model trains is on track before turning it on. Hes known as the Carlsbad communitys resident train man. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 3 / 10 An HO scale electric model train, built by resident Ron Ludwig for display in the lobby of the Lakeside Clubhouse at the La Costa Glen retirement community, powers its way around the track on Tuesday morning. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 4 / 10 An HO scale electric model train, built by resident Ron Ludwig for display in the lobby of the Lakeside Clubhouse at the La Costa Glen retirement community, makes a turn as it heads through a tunnel. Ludwig builds all of the landscape components of his train sets from scratch. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 5 / 10 La Costa Glen resident Ron Ludwig, 82, poses with the HO scale electric train set he built for the Carlsbad retirement communitys holiday display this past year. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 6 / 10 Close-up look at the electric model train display in the lobby of the Lakeside Clubhouse at the La Costa Glen retirement community in Carlsbad. Built by resident Ron Ludwig, the train is HO scale, meaning its 1/87th the size of a real train. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 7 / 10 Close-up look at the electric model train display in the lobby of the Lakeside Clubhouse at the La Costa Glen retirement community in Carlsbad. Built by resident Ron Ludwig, the train is HO scale, meaning its 1/87th the size of a real train. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 8 / 10 Ron Ludwig, a resident of the La Costa Glen retirement community in Carlsbad, watches as the HO scale electric model train, on display in the lobby of the Lakeside Clubhouse, goes around the track. He built the set over the past year. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 9 / 10 A section of the train yard in a large model train layout Ron Ludwig, 82, built inside a pair of garages at the La Costa Glen retirement community in Carlsbad. Hes know there as the train man. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 10 / 10 A clock featuring a train is above one of the HO scale electric model railroad train sets Ron Ludwig, a resident of the La Costa Glen retirement community built in one of his garages. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) Advertisement Ludwig said hes been fascinated with model trains ever since his father bought him his first Lionel set for his 10th birthday. I just love watching them go around, he said. Im not the guy whos into the electronics of it. Im more the kind of guy who loves the painting and design part. Michele Chaffee, activities director at La Costa Glen, said she asked Ludwig to build the set for the clubhouse this year because everyone in the community is so impressed with his talent and detail work. Ron is a character and a wonderful person to work with, Chafee said. This is way more than a hobby for him. Its a lifestyle. La Costa Glen resident Nancy Rommel said Ludwig has treated the responsibility of building the clubhouse train with such seriousness over the past year that he would head to his workshop every morning as if it were a full-time job. This is absolutely fabulous, Rommel said, admiring the new holiday train. Im impressed with all the time it took to do it. Everyone is really enjoying it so much. Hes done a marvelous job. Ludwig grew up in Long Island, N.Y., where he remembers his first train was an O scale table-top set. Over the years, that grew in size to fill a Ping-Pong table, then moved to a floor layout and finally to an elevated platform that measured 16 by 16 feet. But for a big portion of his life, Ludwigs preferred mode of transportation had wings. Ludwig spent 32 years in the Navy. During the Vietnam War, he was an aviator, flying Grumman S-2 Tracker anti-submarine warfare planes, which involved risky takeoffs and landings from the decks of aircraft carriers. Later in his career, he traveled between Navy bases inspecting ships. After he retired from the Navy as a captain, he spent eight years running a junior ROTC program in Santa Ana. The Ludwigs, parents of four who have been married 59 years, moved to La Costa Glen in 2012. To house his train sets, he rented a trio of contiguous single-car garages. Two of the garages are connected via a tiny railway tunnel so the trains, which are 1/87th the size of an actual train, can chug from one end of the massive layout to another. While Ludwig buys the track components, train cars and tiny home and store and vehicle models for his layouts, he prefers to build just about everything else from scratch. He hand-paints all of the scenery, hand-builds the landscapes, makes the mountains from papier-mache and paints weathering details on all of the structures. He uses strips of bridal veil to create tiny chain-link fencing, created a tumbledown wood picket fence out of coffee stirrers, made a lake and waterfall with lacquers and paints, and used wood parts to build a covered bridge, boat dock and more. Chafee said one of the best things about Ludwigs train sets is that hes not only expert at design, hes also skilled at building layouts where the electrical circuits work reliably and the trains dont derail by themselves. Of course, there are other challenges faced by the new timer-operated holiday train, which debuted in the clubhouse on Thanksgiving weekend and will stay up through the holidays. Although theres a protective glass barrier around the train, that hasnt stopped many curious residents from reaching into the display to lift out the cars or accidentally knock them off the tracks. Ludwig said his first duty every morning is to go to the clubhouse to babysit the train set by repairing any minor damage and make sure the system is running smoothly. There are a lot of 85-year-old men here who like to touch the train because it reminds them of the trains they had when they were boys, he said. Little boys go from age 3 to 93. pam.kragen@sduniontribune.com MARIETTA, Ga., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- CINC (www.cincpro.com), the number one lead generation and conversion platform for elite agents and teams, today announced the release of the industry's most innovative communication tool: CINC AI. Built with homebuyers and sellers in mind, CINC AI dynamically responds to consumers' actions and behaviors and immediately communicates via automated text messages, all within the CINC platform. Machine learning, powered by Structurely, combined with insights from the CINC CRM, allows CINC clients to send relevant, timely communications and continuously follow up with ever-evolving situational scripts developed through years of expertise and real-world application. CINC AI is powered by: Intelligent Data: CINC AI combines property alerts, CRM pipeline statuses, search data from an agent's IDX website and all other datapoints along the home search path to intuitively know when a lead is taking implicit actions. Adaptive Technology: CINC AI processes and understands human conversations at scale and is able to remember details about a seemingly infinite number of leads. This allows CINC AI to learn from the agent and homebuyer to always provide value. Power Scripts: In the home search, it's the why not the what that prompts a move. CINC AI has been trained by real estate experts to truly connect at a human level with homebuyers. "What we've been able to do with CINC AI is create human empathy at scale," says Jonathan Choi, Product Director, CINC. "So many offerings simply send static responses, or wait for a lead to interact in order to reply. With CINC AI, we can use the lead insights already found in the CINC CRM to proactively start these conversations. Plus, CINC AI has been trained with proven scripts from top producers scaling the agent's ability to build relationships with everyone in their database." CINC AI conversations are automatically triggered based on key indicators leads take on the CINC site, and the dialogue dynamically shifts, based on the content of the responses. CINC clients can jump into the automated conversation, as needed, and seamlessly continue to add value for the homebuyer. This intelligence allows the CINC client to not only communicate with the consumer immediately, but, with hyper-relevant messages, which further help build the authentic human relationship that is crucial to real estate agents across the industry. "Our mission with CINC AI is to provide a tool that allows CINC clients to serve their leads with excellence," says Alvaro Erize CEO, CINC. "We're talking about a system that is going to interact with your prospects on your behalf, with the goal of building trust. This is not a chatbot that asks if you want three or four bedrooms. I already know what you are looking for by your behavior on the site. I need the technology to use your behavior and help me establish trust, understanding why you are looking for a house. That's how relationships are built and what CINC is in the business of doing." About CINC CINC is the number one lead generation and conversion platform for elite agents, teams, and brokers across North America. The solution includes a consumer-facing website, a CRM platform with personalized and behavioral follow up tools, 3 mobile apps for clients to run their business on the go, and an unrivaled community of 50k+ agents. Founded in Marietta, GA in 2011, and acquired by Fidelity National Financial in 2016, CINC continues to power the growth of real estate professionals at every level. For more about CINC, visit cincpro.com. Press Contact Jordan Fisher Corporate Marketing Manager [email protected] SOURCE CINC Related Links https://www.cincpro.com The top state officials who staged a mutiny against Attorney General Ken Paxton warned that he was using his office to benefit campaign donor Nate Paul, an embattled Austin real estate investor. Paul, a once high-flying businessman whose offices were reportedly raided by the FBI last year, gave Paxton $25,000 ahead of the attorney generals hard-fought re-election battle in 2018. The No. 2 official in the attorney generals office, First Assistant Attorney General Jeff Mateer, put Paul at the center of allegedly illegal activities by Paxton in a text message sent Thursday. Mateer, who resigned Friday, joined six other high-ranking employees in accusing Paxton, the states top law enforcement officer, of abuse of office, bribery and improper influence. Each of the individuals on this text chain made a good faith report of violations by you to an appropriate law enforcement authority concerning your relationship and activities with Nate Paul, Mateer wrote in the text message, which was obtained by Hearst Newspapers. RELATED: Midnight Rodeos operators locked out by landlord The group requested an immediate meeting with Paxton, but the attorney general said he was out of the office and asked them to email him with their concerns. The Austin American-Statesman, which first reported on the allegations against Paxton, published a letter the officials sent to the attorney generals human resources office on Oct. 1. TEXT MESSAGE SHARED WITH HEARST NEWSPAPERS Neither Paul nor his attorney returned calls or messages left on their voicemail. More for you Report: Ken Paxton allegedly took bribes, abused office Paxton said in a statement Sunday: The Texas attorney generals office was referred a case from Travis County regarding allegations of crimes relating to the FBI, other government agencies and individuals. My obligation as attorney general is to conduct an investigation upon such referral. Because employees from my office impeded the investigation and because I knew Nate Paul, I ultimately decided to hire an outside independent prosecutor to make his own independent determination. Despite the effort by rogue employees and their false allegations, the AGs office will continue to seek justice in Texas. The uprising against Paxton crystallized when a special prosecutor he appointed, Houston lawyer Brandon Cammack, issued grand jury subpoenas last week targeting adversaries of Paul, a senior AG official told Hearst Newspapers. TEXAS TAKE: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox The official who spoke with Hearst Newspapers said those subpoenas spurred the seven top deptuties in the attorney generals office into action. One of the signatories on the letter accusing Paxton, deputy attorney general for criminal justice J. Mark Penley, filed a motion in state district court in Austin to halt the subpoenas. The motion to quash them was granted on Friday, records show. In filing the subpoenas, Cammack represented that he was acting on behalf of the office of the Attorney General as a Special Prosecutor, Penleys motion said. He is not properly authorized to act as a Special Prosecutor, and has no authority to appear before the grand jury or issue grand jury subpoenas. Cammack declined to comment. An official with the Travis County District Attorneys office said the agency does not have an investigation into Paxton. The FBI and U.S. Attorneys offices declined to comment. Top Republicans statewide on Sunday acknowledged the gravity of the allegations but stopped short of calling for Paxton to step down. These allegations raise serious concerns, said Gov. Greg Abbott, who served as Attorney General for 12 years prior to Paxton. I will withhold further comment until the results of any investigation are complete. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick called the matter obviously concerning. I will wait until the investigation is complete before making any additional comments, Patrick said. Neither responded to questions about what they believe should happen to Paxtons office in the meantime. A real estate empire under a cloud The genesis of Paxtons relationship with the real estate investor Paul was not clear on Sunday. Paul cut a wide swath through Texas real estate circles in a short time, amassing a large portfolio of valuable holdings particularly in Austin, his home since 2002 in less than a decade and by the age of 30. According to published reports, his World Class Holdings owned the 156-acre former 3M campus, in northwest Austin, as well as prime downtown parcels. Together with a portfolio of storage facilities located in several states, the companys worth at one time reportedly approached $1 billion. Personally, Paul owns a 9,000 square-foot mansion west of downtown Austin appraised at $2.4 million, according to Travis Central Appraisal District records. Recently, the business empire has shown signs of severe stress. Over the past year, 18 of Pauls companies have declared bankruptcy, according to the Austin Business Journal, which has covered Pauls comings and goings extensively since his name suddenly became the most-searched phrase on the newspapers website, in 2014. World Class also is embroiled in several lawsuits involving investors and partners. And in August 2019, his business and home were reportedly raided by federal and state agents, although no criminal charges have been filed. According to published reports, Paul, the son of Indian immigrants, moved to Austin from Victoria as a teenager in 2002. He attended the University of Texas for three years before dropping out. In 2006, he formed World Class, acquiring his first property in 2007. I started with zero. There was no legacy. Im self-made, he said in a 2015 Austin Business Journal article. His sister, Sheena, joined the company as chief operating officer, according to a profile of her in Austin Woman. Nate came into the world as a business person, she told the magazine. When he was 4 or 5 years old, he wouldnt carry around trucks or G.I. Joes; he carried around a yellow note pad. And he still does, writing down ideas. Its almost like a security blanket. Paul said he was quickly able to acquire properties because of real estate prices suppressed by the 2009 recession. In 2015, he made a splash by bidding $800 million for a portfolio of properties including New York Citys legendary Plaza Hotel. He also began raising his personal profile. In 2015, he was photographed with then-candidate Donald Trump, a meeting set up by a business associate who once worked for Trump. He has reportedly hobnobbed with celebrities, including Los Angeles Lakers guard Avery Bradley, whom he met at UT; and actor Leonardo DiCaprio. In 2018, he donated just under $50,000 to a variety of Republican politicians, Texas Ethics Commission records show. Paxton criminal case could be affected The recent allegations against Paxton are compounded by an ongoing criminal case against him that has been churning for more than five years with no trial in sight. It now sits before a Harris County judge who will decide whether to move the case to Collin County, as Paxtons lawyers have requested, or keep it under his jurisdiction. In that case, Paxton is charged with two felonies, accused of soliciting investments in a technology company without notifying investors that he would be compensated for it. Hes also charged with a third-degree felony of failing to register with the state as an investment adviser. Paxton has denied the claims and characterized the case as politically motivated. Kent Schaffer, a special prosecutor in that case, said Saturday that the latest accusations, if they lead to charges, could imperil Paxton's odds of securing any kind of deal to resolve the criminal case. We were trying to get this case resolved, but if this guys out committing crimes while hes on bond, then its going to become an extremely serious matter, Schaffer said. Im not saying that he has I dont know the specifics, (but if he has) then its game on. Maybe the people that reported him are not shooting straight, but I want to hear from both sides, if possible. Were going to do what we can to investigate. Schaffer said he contacted the Texas Rangers on Saturday immediately upon hearing the news. He declined to comment on whether the agency mentioned any existing investigation on the matter. Paxton has also been accused by his staff of accepting bribes in the past. In 2016, Paxton faced allegations of bribery and corruption lodged by an anonymous employee. He had accepted money for his criminal defense fund from a CEO whose company was being investigated by his office. While state law prohibits accepting gifts from parties subject to the offices authority, Paxton claimed the donors were friends, family friends and others with whom he had relationships that were independent of his position as Attorney General. A special prosecutor for the Kaufman County District Attorney agreed with Paxtons interpretation and declined to file charges. The revelations over the weekend appeared to have shaken the agency, where Ryan Bangert, deputy first assistant attorney general and one of the seven officials who reported Paxton to the authorities, sent out a letter of reassurance to staff. I write to assure you that the executive team remains committed to serving you, this office and the people of Texas, Bangert wrote. Your work, your sacrifice, and your dedication to this office inspire us all. Jordan Berry, Paxtons political adviser, said he resigned after news of the allegations broke. As news trickled into the political sphere, members of the Texas Legislature began speaking out among them Houston Republican State Rep. Sarah Davis. Although innocent until proven guilty, AG Paxton has been under indictment for the past five years, Davis said in a tweet Sunday. With these new allegations of bribery and abuse of office, Paxton needs to quickly address these allegations or resign so he can devote his time to his own personal legal matters. Democrats, who are waging an all-out battle to flip the Texas House this November, said the allegations prove Paxton is not fit for office. Ken Paxton is the top law enforcement official in the state, Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa said in a statement Saturday. Yet, he has proven for years that he cannot follow the law himself. Justin Nelson, who ran against Paxton in 2018 and lost by four percentage points, on Twitter on Sunday called for Paxton to resign. Chris Turner, chair of the House Democratic Caucus, echoed that sentiment, saying the ethical storm clouds over Paxtons head had grown darker and more ominous than ever. jay.root@chron.com taylor.goldenstein@chron.com eric.dexheimer@chron.com Stealing an election, the slowmotion way By Michael R. Shannon This will come as news to most voters, but were having a twostage presidential election this year. The first stage is Tuesday, November 3rd. The plutocrats at JP Morgan warn Trumps chances at that stage are improving and consequently advise clients to position accordingly. I assume that means double down on investments in tear gas and fireworks manufacturers. A consulting group funded by Mike Money Cant Buy Me Love Bloomberg agrees. Trump will do well on election day, but Hawkfish CEO Josh Mendelsohn describes Trumps Nov. 3rd win as a red mirage. Thats because election day only serves to set a target threshold for the left. Once the count is over on Nov. 3rd the left knows exactly how many mail ballots will be required to produce a victory for Gropey Joe Biden. Mendelsohn is only preparing Trump voters for the final letdown, The reason we talk about a red mirage is in fact because we believe that on election night, we are going to see Donald Trump in a stronger position than the reality actually is the data is going to show on election night an incredible victory for Donald Trump. A victory that will be steadily eroded as mail ballots or at least the mail ballots that are counted turn decisively in Bidens favor. The Hawkfish prediction of the beforeandafter Electoral College count is enough to empty gun stores of the few remaining boxes of ammunition still on the shelf. Trump will have what appears to be an unassailable lead of 408 Electoral Votes to Bidens 130. Magically, only seven days later, the count flips and now Biden wins 334 to 204. I dont think Im alone in hearing the chattering wheels of cheatery at work. Strangely, when I write the left intends to steal the election with a stamp, pushback is immediate from both thieves and victims. Many independents and Republicans mistakenly think the 128,838,342 votes cast in 2016 makes a presidential election is too big to steal. Theyre confident that even if the left tries, it would take too many fraudulent votes to change the outcome. That is a dangerous misconception. The presidential election is really 50 individual elections. The left could inundate the polls with mimeographed ballots in New York, California, New Jersey, Illinois, Washington and Oregon and it would make no difference, because Trump was never going to win those states. Its swing or battleground states where the election will be stolen and Trumps 2016 margin of victory in those states was whiskerthin. A New York Times analysis found a mere 107,000 votes nationwide effectively decided the election. Thats only 0.0008 percent of the total vote. A completely stealable number, particularly when vote counters have a couple of weeks to do it. In 2016 Trump won Pennsylvania by 0.007 percent of the vote. He won Michigan by 0.002 percent. Wisconsin by 0.008 percent and Florida by 0.012 percent. The political apparatus in three of those four states is a solelyowned subsidiary of the Democrat Party. Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin have Democrat governors. In all three states the mayors of the three largest cities are all Democrat. That means the left controls the vote count machinery. Election judges are appointed by Democrat officials and trained by same. Republicans may be observers, but they wont be in control. We saw how this works in the 2008 election in Minnesota that inflicted Al Franken on us. Incumbent Sen. Norm Coleman led by 215 votes at the end of the official count. During the recount ballots were found in the trunk of a car and previously rejected ballots repented and were accepted. Even the ballots of voters in prison were counted, although that was illegal. In the end Franken won by 225 votes. Minnesota was a swing state Hillary won by only 0.016 percent and that was without riots. You can be sure enough mail ballots will arrive after election day to keep the state in Bidens column. This is why the lockdown is so important for the left. No school. No work. No return to normal. Fueling the Great Pandemic Panic is designed to frighten people. Frightened people wont go to the polls and will instead vote by mail. This unprecedented, tsunami of mail ballots will swamp the system. Ask yourself, why is the left adamantly in favor of a mail voting system that is so much more inefficient and slower than inperson voting? Simple. In a votebymail election its not who casts the votes thats most important, its who counts the votes. And in too many battleground states the votes are going to be counted by the people who believe its morally unthinkable and their duty to prevent another Trump win. Michael R. Shannon is a public relations and advertising consultant with corporate, government and political experience around the globe. He is a dynamic and entertaining keynote speaker. He can be reached at mandate.mmpr (at) gmail.com. He is also the author of Conservative Christian's Guidebook for Living in Secular Times (Now with added humor!). Home Russian bombshell Irina Shayk showcased her sensational figure in a silver gown for a striking rooftop photo shoot in Tribeca on Sunday. As the 34-year-old supermodel struck a series of dramatic poses, above one of Manhattan's wealthiest neighborhoods, her dark tresses were pulled back to emphasis her radiant complexion. While donning a metallic evening gown, adorned with floral embellishments at the bust, the beauty placed one hand behind her neck and looked off in the distance. Posing up a storm: Russian bombshell Irina Shayk showcased her sensational figure in a racy silver gown for a striking rooftop photo shoot in Tribeca on Sunday While pursuing her signature plump pout, Shayk looked serene with her eyes shut, before placing both arms on a railing and throwing her head back. Her glittering gown's revealing neckline appeared to make enough of a statement, as her look was styled without any jewelry or additional accessories. In addition to sporting a slicked wet-look, the stunner donned a smokey eye shadow and flashed plenty of her sun-kissed skin on the cloudy afternoon. Photo shoot: As the 34-year-old supermodel struck a series of dramatic poses, above one of Manhattan's wealthiest neighborhoods, her dark tresses were slicked back to emphasis her radiant complexion Stunning: While donning a metallic evening gown, adorned with floral embellishments at the bust, the beauty placed one hand behind her neck and looked off in the distance She recently returned to the United States, after a whirlwind trip to Italy for Milan Fashion Week. Just days prior, she had a starring role in Rihanna's Savage X Fenty Show Vol. 2, which premiered on Amazon October 2. For the event, she stormed the runway alongside Demi Moore, Bella Hadid, Cara Delevingne and Lizzo, with performances by Travis Scott, Rosalia, Miguel, Mustard, Roddy Rich and Ella Mai. Eye-catching: While pursuing her plump pout, Shayk looked serene with her eyes shut, before placing both arms on the rail and throwing her head back For the show, the Vogue cover girl paraded her amazing physique in a sheer black lace bra and sequined shorts, teamed with a long silk robe. Off the runway, Shayk shares her two-year-old daughter Lea with her ex Bradley Cooper, who she split from in June 2019 after nearly four years of dating. She and the 45-year-old BAFTA winner have a 50/50 joint legal and physical custody arrangement. Hard at work: The supermodel had a starring role in Rihanna's Savage X Fenty Show Vol. 2, which premiered on Amazon October 2 KALAMAZOO, MI -- Kalamazoo Public Schools will host townhalls to get parent opinion on whether the students should return to the classroom in November. The district is hosting seven virtual meetings with parents to help decide if they should move forward with plans for some in-person learning during the second trimester, according to a press release. Superintendent Rita Raichoudhuri said they reached out to stakeholders in June as they were preparing the back-to-school plan. Now that we are approaching the second trimester, I am again asking for stakeholder input,'' she said. In addition, we will continue to study infection rates and review data from other districts who have already returned to in-person instruction. The districts back-to-school plan calls for hybrid learning to begin Nov. 30. That is provided Michigan is in Phase 4 or 5 of the MI Safe Start Plan. District administrators expect to announce their decision at the Oct. 22 board meeting, according to a news release. Students enrolled in option one would be back in the classroom two days per week. On days that students are not attending in-person classes, they would participate in independent learning activities and student-centered support services from home, the district said. The townhalls will be hosted via Zoom and are open to all district stakeholders except for the first two webinars. The townhalls require registration. Click on the time and day of the townhalls listed below to register. Anyone requiring accommodations, such as translation services, should contact communications@kalamazoopublicschools.net. The districts plan also said those students would move to full-time, in-person learning in the third trimester. Another option for parents was to enroll in virtual learning all year. Raichoudhuri previously outlined safety protocols for in-person school including mandatory mask wearing, social distancing, enhanced cleaning and handwashing. Also on MLive: Kalamazoo schools to launch learning hubs for online students in need of extra support Michigan school employee dies of coronavirus See who is endorsing candidates for Kalamazoo Public Schools Board of Education Teleworking without a Policy Working from Home, Securely Here are a few recommendations related to remote work from the Center for Internet Securitys Resource Guide for Cybersecurity During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Phishing and Malspam Remind employees to be cautious when opening emails about COVID-19, especially those from outside the organization. They should exercise caution when entering credentials into a website, linked from an email, text message or social media account, or when downloading attachments. Credential Stuffing It may have been necessary to make services available to employees remotely, without the time to secure accounts through multi-factor authentication (MFA). Along with securing accounts with MFA, employees should make sure all passwords are secure, and should never reuse passwords on different accounts. Remote Desktop Protocol Targeting An increase in the number of employees connecting remotely means an increase in the number of systems with the remote desktop port open and potentially being scanned. While your workforce needs to access systems remotely, limited and secure access by VPN can reduce the attack surface. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attack Downtime from an attack is even more detrimental with a remote workforce. A larger remote workforce can even act as an unintentional DDoS attack, simply because more users are trying to access services at the same time. To handle these possibilities, and ensure you are protected against DDoS attacks, have increased bandwidth allocations ready, temporarily disable unused services to allow for more bandwidth, and discourage your employees from streaming videos, music or other services through the VPN. Working from Walmart Importance of Patching Jim Weaver, chief information officer of Washington state, refers to the pandemic as the states new chief innovation officer. It is demonstrating to agency leaders the transformative opportunities that some technology tools bring to how business can be done as opposed to how it has always been done, he said.One such innovation involved securely shifting thousands of state employees to working from home in March 2020 when Gov. Jay Inslee issued a stay-at-home order.Washington was the first U.S. epicenter of COVID-19 in January, and as a member of Inslees cabinet, Weaver had insight that a stay-at-home order was on the horizon. We were able to scale up capacity and get ready for the onslaught that was coming. Overnight we shifted from fewer than 3,000 users to having 29,000 concurrent users on our VPN [virtual private network] at any given time, he recalled.The remote work setup, which continues, has challenged Weavers team to redouble educational efforts on cyberhygiene and rethink how patching is done. Meanwhile, in a state with a decentralized IT framework, the complexity level increased because his office was in the process of changing VPN platforms, trying to move agencies to Microsoft Teams as a unified communication platform, and dealing with laptop supply shortages. Some employees took desktop computers from the office to set up at home, creating remote support and maintenance issues.Although many state and local governments have been pleasantly surprised that they were able to rapidly shift a large percentage of their employees to remote work, many CIOs are losing sleep over increased cybersecurity threats.As we made the initial transition to remote work, a lot of the typical standard security controls were circumvented in the interest of expediency, explained Mark Weatherford, chief strategy officer for the National Cybersecurity Center. Some of the things we might have taken a more measured approach to implementing got swept away in the urgency to get things done. We went from one day having everyone in the office to a week later everybody working from home. For government agencies that werent prepared to do that, whether it was having laptops available or remote capabilities available to everyone, there was a lot of work that had to be done over a short period of time.If the workforce wasnt prepared to be mobile, IT teams would have to go in and tweak firewall rules and install VPNs, Weatherford said. The danger would be that in the urgency of the moment, a lot of these security controls would be put on a checklist to get back to, but IT teams would feel they dont have time to do it right now. They are just going to open up these ports and protocols to allow people to work.Eric Romero, director of information services for Baton Rouge, La., was in a difficult position when the stay-at-home order was issued in March. His office had spent more than a year focused on tightening up security after several organizations in Louisiana, including New Orleans and the state government, had dealt with ransomware attacks. However, Baton Rouge had no official telework policy and very few laptops.We were scrounging around for laptops and other all-in-one computers we could possibly send home with key people, Romero remembers. But sending someone home with a keyboard, mouse, desktop and a monitor and expecting them to connect it all to their network properly that wouldnt have worked.The idea of employees using their own computers was brought up, but cyber-security concerns gave Romero pause. I know it is possible, but we didnt have all the security measures in place that would allow that. The city ended up with about 100 laptops, and configured the VPN so that when employees connected, they would have remote access to their desktop computer on the network.But that left many employees unable to work or coming into the office in shifts to get work done. And while governments in the region have experience determining who is an essential worker during emergencies like hurricanes, it gets more complex when the emergency extends into months. For example, clerks in accounting who pay bills may not be essential for the first week, but they are essential after a month has passed.After two months, the stay-at-home order in Louisiana was lifted and people went back to work, but the virus was still present in the state, and as cases spiked, there was talk that another stay-at-home order might be necessary. Quite honestly, we still dont have enough assets to accommodate everybody, Romero said.John Gilligan, president and CEO of the Center for Internet Security (CIS), says that a governments experience of remote work during the pandemic depends largely on whether there had been a gradual migration to telework.Organizations that had a fairly robust telework program had the knowledge of what their technical approach would be to provide the connectivity and security. What they did not have was the capacity, he explained. For the most part, I believe we will look back and say the changeover was dramatic, relatively seamless and painless, and a good example of cooperation between government organizations and companies like Microsoft, Google and telecom companies.Nevertheless, a recent CIS survey found that 61 percent of security and IT leaders are concerned about an increase in cyber-attacks targeting their employees working at home. Whenever there is any disruption in the environment, there is a corresponding increase in attacks, Gilligan said. Having been a CIO, I am a little less comfortable when the employees pick up their laptops and are working from home because I have less control over the equipment they are using. When employees worked all within the same physical confines, there was a boundary around them, so the organization could fend off attacks. Now the boundary is in lots of peoples homes. It is a different technical issue. Over the next six months, CIS is going to focus on putting more emphasis on endpoint protection rather than boundary protection, and I think that is where the industry is going as well. For state and local government, the challenge is that the solutions have to be inexpensive, because the budgets are going to take a hit from the pandemic.In King County, Wash., CIO Tanya Hannah oversaw sending home approximately 5,500 of the countys 15,000 employees in early March and is prepared to support them for the long haul. We are not coming back to the office until at least January 2021, she said. The countys penetration of laptops or tablets was at about 85 percent, and a number of workers have county-issued mobile phones, so from that perspective they were well prepared, but she does have heightened security concerns.Now you have endpoints all over the place, Hannah said. Individuals could be using unsecured networks, so I think the challenges around cyber and privacy and trying to understand your risk is even greater with remote employees. It gets exacerbated depending on what kinds of tools you have and the work you are doing, she adds. For instance, users dealing with HIPAA privacy rules and protected health information must be sure not to use unsecure applications or communications tools without encryption.When she became CIO two years ago, the county increased spending on cybersecurity by approximately 35 percent. We are using Microsoft ADP and their information protection tools, Hannah said. The threats are always changing and we have legacy applications. In recent years we have seen an increasing number of attacks on state and local, and even federal entities. We probably dont spend enough of what is required.Washington CIO Jim Weaver says that as much as his office thought it was prepared, patching and basic cyberhygiene issues arose. Instead of having those internal endpoints and the normal way we distributed those security patches, we now had to do that in an external fashion and in a way that does not cripple the capacity of our firewalls or VPN, he said. We try to do it during non-peak hours and have our users keep devices connected overnight to allow for downloading of those patches. We had to coordinate timing of those patches with agencies, so we werent having gigabytes pushed out at the same time across a multiplicity of agencies.Weaver says the readiness to work remotely in Washington state varied from agency to agency. Some were forward-thinking and had enough laptops for employees; other agencies did not have laptops and employees took their desktop PCs home and are leveraging virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI). In some cases employees are using their own devices and connecting in through the VPN into a VDI-type situation.In addition, some employees in remote parts of the state have broadband connectivity issues. In my own agency, I have one employee who drives to a Walmart parking lot to connect, Weaver said. I love her dedication, but that is not the right answer. We are starting to enable workers like that to come back into the office. I dont want somebody driving to Walmart to work.There are other management challenges around having a decentralized IT organization, he says. In many cases we were all solving the same problem a multiplicity of times, he added, so we set up daily calls with IT leaders to issue guidance and best practices and to ask what we were doing that might be impacting them. That was well received, he says, and five months into operating in this model, they are still holding those online meetings three times per week for 30 minutes.Both Gilligan and Weatherford stress the importance of continuing to patch and monitor antivirus software during the pandemic. Failing to keep up with patching during an emergency is short-term thinking that could have really long-term implications, Weatherford said. I consider patching and updating part of normal operations, and most security teams do as well. If you are not patching, you are leaving gaping holes.King Countys Hannah says there is no way her organization would pause its patching work. That would be a big mistake, she noted. You have to think about all these legacy systems and the vulnerabilities with them.Patching was also initially an issue for the state of New Hampshire when it sent its employees home with their desktop computers in March. When employees were in our offices, the network resources were more robust, said New Hampshire Information Technology Department Commissioner Denis Goulet. We had to make changes to the patching infrastructure so we could patch directly over the Internet rather than through the VPN. That was a challenge at first and we got a little behind on patching. We caught up after we moved our Microsoft patching off the VPN. We also did that with our trusted conference solutions like Webex so we didnt have to go through the VPN for those.Because it didnt have laptops for its employees and didnt want them to use their personal devices, New Hampshire encrypted the work desktops, purchased Wi-Fi cards for them and helped employees set them up at home. We quickly upgraded our remote access infrastructure because like everybody else we had the ability to support many fewer connections than we anticipated connecting, Goulet said. About 11,500 state employees use computers in New Hampshire, but before the pandemic, remote access to the network topped out at 600, according to Goulet. We are now doing 10 times that every day. It was a big change.Goulet said the fact that IT is centralized in New Hampshire made the switch to home easier. The benefit is we had one remote access solution and one technology stack that went on the computers, he explained.The experience of the pandemic will require looking at cybersecurity and compliance through a different lens, Goulet noted. We have to focus on it more in the remote context, he said, adding that it may lead to business process transformation. As an example, he says, many employees felt they had to be able to print at home because they did in the office. They thought they had to transfer that business process to home. For instance, in my department I have to sign off on all large purchases. Well, that was largely a manual process before we moved offsite. But now I am not going to print those out, sign them and send them back to somebody, so we went to a full electronic signature process. It is a lot faster and better. The Omicron variant of the Covid-19 virus is at the stage of community spread. So said epidemiologist Dr Avery Hinds yesterday as he noted the detection of the variant in a number of people who had no recent travel history. Hinds was speaking during the Ministry of Healths virtual news conference yesterday. The Spokesperson for Abelemkpe Mantse, Ahmed Kadr Sally says the Nana Addo government is the only government that can implement the policies it has begun. According to Ahmed Kadr Sally, some of Nana Addos policies are first of its kind in this country since independence, therefore only Nana Addo who introduced such policies can ensure its implementation to the letter. He cited some policies like the free SHS and One village One Dam among others as the first ever since independence. Speaking at the durbar at Abelemkpe Park when Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia visited the Ayawaso West Wuoguon as part of his tour of the Greater Accra Region, Ahmed Kadr Sally maintained that former President John Mahama and the opposition NDC must join the Nana Addo led administration to execute the policies rather than telling Ghanaians they will continue Nana Addos policies. He said the NDC cant do it better than the NPP, hence Nana Addo must be given four more years to continue his good works. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia also urged Ghanaians to concentrate on the good works of Nana Addo and give him four more years to develop the country. He stressed that former President Mahama will retrogress the economy with his incompetence. Source: Pious Baidoo Banson/Peace FM News 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 Armenian government said on October 4 that residential areas in Nagorno-Karabakh were being shelled by Azerbaijan. The countrys foreign minister, Anna A Naghdalyan, said cluster munitions were being used in attacks. Footage released via YouTube by the Artsakh Defence Army, the armed forces of the Armenian-run enclave within Azerbaijan, shows strikes in Stepanakert, as multiple explosions are seen and heard. Brian Castner, an investigator with Amnesty International, said the strikes were a new and completely unacceptable escalation of the Armenia/Azerbaijan conflict: the use of banned cluster munitions against civilian areas in Stepanakert. Also on October 4, Azerbaijan said its second city, Ganja, was shelled. Credit: NKR DEFENSE ARMY via Storyful The Bombay high court (HC) has observed that the Maharashtra government has an overriding responsibility and should compensate the families of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) victims in instances of alleged culpable negligence by the state authorities and hospitals run by civic bodies in disposal of their bodies. The court made the observation while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Ashish Shelar, a Bharatiya Janata Partys (BJP) member of the Maharashtra legislative assembly (MLA). Shelar pointed out 11 instances of alleged negligence in the management of bodies of Covid-19 victims by hospital authorities. The HC also asked the Maharashtra government to adopt the guidelines issued in March by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoH&FW) and the additional directives given by the Calcutta HC in its September 16 order. Also read: India exceeds WHOs Covid-19 tests advisory by 6 times, says govt The HC is not clear which guidelines are being followed by the Maharashtra government for the management of bodies of Covid-19 victims. The state has also been directed to file an affidavit by November 4 elaborating the steps taken in the 11 instances of alleged negligence in the management of bodies of Covid-19 victims by hospital authorities. Shelar has also been permitted to give suggestions for additional guidelines for the management of bodies of Covid-19 victims before or after November 4. A two-member HC division bench, comprising chief justice Dipankar Datta and justice NJ Jamadar, heard the submission of senior advocate Rajendra Pai, who stated that the PIL sought accountability and deterrence regarding management of bodies of Covid-19 by hospitals that are run by civic authorities. The plea was filed following a viral video grab of Covid-19 victims, who were lying in a civic body-run hospital, where patients suffering from the viral infection were also undergoing treatment. Pai submitted that there was lack of clarity about the guidelines adopted by the Maharashtra government regarding the management of bodies of Covid-19 victims in hospitals run by civic bodies. The plea prayed before the court that the state government should be asked to clarify about the lacunae and also compensate the families of Covid-19 victims, who suffered due to alleged negligence of the hospital authorities. State pleader Kedar Dighe cited that the Aurangabad bench of Bombay HC is hearing a case regarding the payment of compensation to the next of kin of a woman (82), who had gone missing from a Covid-19 ward of Jalgaon Civil Hospital on June 2 and was found dead eight days later in one of the toilets of the healthcare facility. Dighe submitted that the civic authorities in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra were liable for negligence. The HC responded to Dighes contention and said: The state has an overriding responsibility. If the instances are true, it would suggest culpable negligence on the part of the hospitals and the victims family will be entitled for compensation. We are just awakening the state to its responsibility and it should devise some mechanism to compensate the families of the victims. The bench said that the management of bodies of Covid-19 victims was a larger issue, which is pending before the Supreme Court (SC) and it would await the top courts decision on it. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Amman: Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says the continued presence of Russia's major naval and air bases in his country help counter the influence of Western powers in the region as the battle to crush insurgents was winding down. In an interview with Russia's Ministry of Defence TV channel Zvezda on the fifth anniversary of Moscow's intervention in Syria that tipped the conflict in his favour, Assad said Russia's two main bases were important to counter the West's military presence in the region. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Credit:SANA/AP "This global military balance needs Russia's role ... this needs [military] bases [...] we benefit from this," Assad said adding Syria needed such a presence that his military commanders say countered Washington's dominance in the region. Alongside the Hmeimim base, from which Russia launches air strikes in support of Assad, Moscow also controls the Tartus naval facility in Syria, its only naval foothold in the Mediterranean, in use since the days of the Soviet Union. (Alliance News) - Caledonia Mining Corp PLC Monday raised its production guidance for 2020 following a strong operational performance in the third quarter of 2020. For the three months to the end of September, the St Helier-based miner reported production at 15,164 ounces of gold from the Blanket mine in Zimbabwe, up 11% from 13,646 ounces the same period the year before. For the nine month-period, gold output was 42,896 ounces, 12% higher from 38,306 ounces the prior year. As a result of this, Caledonia has increased its production guidance for 2020 to between 55,000 ounces and 58,000 ounces, from 53,000 and 56,000 ounces estimated in August. In addition, the group remains on-track to achieve its production target of 80,000 ounces by 2022. "Notwithstanding the negative effect of the coronavirus pandemic on supply chains and operating arrangements, Blanket has delivered robust production results for the first nine months of 2020. Due to the strong production, I am delighted that we are now able to increase our production guidance from 53,000 to 56,000 ounces to 55,000 to 58,000 ounces. Along with the increased dividend, this really demonstrates the strength of our business and I would like to thank the team for this result," said Chief Executive Officer Steve Curtis. Shares in Caledonia Mining were up 3.2% at 1,367.00 pence on Monday in London. By Dayo Laniyan; dayolaniyan@alliancenews.com Copyright 2020 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved. Northern Irish farmers have welcomed the announcement of a 4.3 percent increase to the BPS entitlements in the 2020 scheme year. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has announced a rise to the unit value of all Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) entitlements. Over time, the difference between the value of direct payments made to farmers and the budget allocation has increased due to a number of issues such as not all BPS entitlements being activated for payment, DAERA explained. According to Northern Ireland's agriculture minister Edwin Poots, the increase is worth approximately 8 million in total or 330 on average per farmer. He said the move "will ensure that our expenditure on direct payments will match our budget allocation of 293m which under Treasury rules is ring fenced and can only be used for these payments." Mr Poots added: "I will continue to be committed to supporting our agricultural sector as this increase to BPS entitlements demonstrates." The Ulster Farmers Union (UFU) has welcomed the move, saying the increase was a permanent uplift to entitlements and not a one off, therefore it would apply in 2021 and beyond until the system changes. UFU president Victor Chestnutt said: "The gap between the total of direct payments made to farmers and the budget allocation, increased due to several issues influencing Minister Poots to deliver this rise. "By appropriately allocating this additional and otherwise unspent funding via BPS entitlements, it should help justify the continuation of this financial distribution to the UK Treasury going forward." By PTI LONDON: UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak on Monday dismissed speculation around him taking over as Britain's first Indian-origin Prime Minister, as he stressed that his job as the finance minister of the country was hard enough. With his handling of a COVID-hit economy scoring high, there has been growing media speculation in recent weeks around Sunak, dubbed "Dishy Rishi", being ready to swap his current address as UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's neighbour at No.11 Downing Street for the top job next door at No.10. "No, definitely not. Seeing what the Prime Minister has to deal with, this is a job hard enough for me to do," Sunak said, in response to a question about whether he would like to replace Johnson. In an interview following his first speech as Chancellor of the Exchequer to the ongoing ruling Conservative Party conference, Sunak - who is married to Infosys co-Founder Narayana Murthy's daughter Akshata - also spoke about his close bond with his boss next door and how his children enjoyed playing with the UK PM's pet dog Dilyn. "He [Johnson] trusted me with this job which I am very grateful to him for, and he and I have a close personal friendship, and that spreads through the teams. There is an enormous amount of mutual trust between our teams. So as a building it operates really well, which I think is really important," he said, in reference to No. 10 and 11 Downing Street as the headquarters of the UK political establishment. Earlier in his speech aimed at Tory party delegates, 40-year-old Sunak promised to keep a tight control of the UK's finances despite the economic crisis triggered by the coronavirus outbreak. The finance minister, who is in charge of Britain's financial response to the impact of the pandemic on jobs and businesses, admitted that "hard choices are everywhere" but pledged that he won't stop trying to "find ways to support people and businesses". "We will protect the public finances. Over the medium term getting our borrowing and debt back under control. We have a sacred responsibility to future generations to leave the public finances strong, and through careful management of our economy, this Conservative government will always balance the books," Sunak said in his speech to the party conference, being held virtually in keeping with the coronavirus guidance on mass gatherings. "I will always be pragmatic. The Winter Economy Plan announced only two weeks ago is but the latest stage of our planned economic response. I will keep listening, keep striving to be creative in response to the challenges our economy faces, and where I can, I will act. I will not give up, no matter how difficult it is," he said. The senior Cabinet minister listed some of the measures he had already put in place to help protect jobs and livelihoods, including the furlough or forced leave scheme which will give way to a new Jobs Support Scheme. "We will not let talent wither, or waste, we will help all who want it, find new opportunity and develop new skills. Through more apprenticeships, more training and a lifetime skills guarantee - we will help small businesses adapt," he said. While reiterating his previous message that no finance minister could save every job as there are no "easy cost-free" answers to such a health and economic crisis, the minister said he was committing himself to a single priority - "to create, support and extend opportunity to as many people as I can". "Because even if this moment is more difficult than any you have ever faced, even if it feels like there is no hope, I am telling you that there is, and that the overwhelming might of the British state will be placed at your service," he said. Thousands protest against COVID-19 passports in Sweden Chinese automaker Geely in talks to buy Meizu Kaunas officially becomes European Capital of Culture 2022 Turkish journalist who insulted Erdogan on live TV arrested Ipsos poll predicts Macron's landslide victory in French presidential election Germany elects new CDU leader Media: US on Monday will begin evacuation of families of diplomats in Ukraine UN expresses concern over disappearance of 2 activists in Afghanistan Carnival in Rio de Janeiro postponed due to omicron strain More than 9,300 Afghans claiming protection were taken to Germany Scientists suggest that under surface of one of Saturn moons lies ocean Russian Foreign Ministry: US and NATO launched toxi campaign against Moscow Sergey Nersesyan dismissed from post of Yerevan Deputy Mayor British Foreign Secretary to visit Moscow in February for talks with Lavrov 48-year-old man dies of frostbite in Yerevan 1,822 criminal cases launched in Kazakhstan after January riots Tatoyan: Expired drugs found in mental health centers in Armenia 6.3 magnitude earthquake strikes off coast of Alaska Putin and Pashinyan discuss by phone prospects for further cooperation within CSTO First batch of military aid to Ukraine from US arrived in Kyiv 6.0 magnitude earthquake strikes off Philippine coast Armenia confirms 940 new coronavirus cases, no deaths Armenian rescuers pull out 50 stuck cars and provide necessary aid to 80 citizens Papua New Guinea parliament repeals death penalty law TikTok starts testing paid subscriptions Israeli fighter jets, refueling planes hold massive drills aimed at Tehran France announces gradual lifting of coronavirus restrictions Fountains in Athens' central square illuminated with Armenian tricolor Austria approves Europe's first mandatory COVID-19 vaccination mandate World War II aircraft crashed in India found after 77 years Armenian Parliament Deputy Speaker meets EU delegation Deputy Speaker of Armenian parliament meets Russian Ambassador to Armenia Germany won't pay compensation if Nord Stream 2 doesn't comply with German, EU laws NEWS.am digest: EU special rep. is in Armenia, Roma's Mkhitaryan turns 33 today Child injured in Artsakh car accident taken to Yerevan by Russian peacekeepers' helicopter Taiwanese woman faces death penalty for setting island's deadliest fire Turkey passes law to exempt converted lira deposits from corporate tax Blinken says he discussed Iran nuclear deal with Lavrov Erdogan says Turkey has peaceful relations with Russia like never before New German government wants to attract 400,000 skilled workers from abroad every year Israeli Attorney General orders to investigate police allegations of spyware Blinken: Any Russian invasion of Ukraine will be met with swift response Candidate: Ombudsmans institution is one of few established institutions in Armenia Lavrov summarizes the results of talks with Blinken UN agrees on definition of Holocaust denial Lavrov and Blinken talks kick off in Geneva Australian FM says issue of sending direct military aid to Ukraine is not considered Armenia PM receives EU delegation, need for full operation of Karabakh peace process is stressed Armenia National Assembly debating on new ombudspersons candidacy Katherine Tai: The world can't go back to the 2019 trading system Dollar gains value in Armenia Armenia legislature told hold secret ballot to elect TV and radio commission new members NATO intends to hold largest military exercises beyond Arctic Circle in early March 7 new cases of coronavirus reported in Artsakh 'Zangezur corridor' will unite Turkic world, says Azerbaijan presidential office official Armenia FM highlights need for full resumption of Karabakh peace talks Armenia ex-defense minister: In our time it was shame to immediately turn to CSTO in case of Azerbaijan provocations UN General Assembly head calls for peace during Beijing Olympics Armenia Tourism Committee has new chairperson Russian MFA: Priority today is to start Azerbaijan-Armenia border delimitation, demarcation process Parliament passes, in first reading, bill restricting gambling advertising in Armenia UK considering sending hundreds of additional troops to Ukraine's neighbors Warships of Russia, Iran and China work out counteraction to maritime piracy Armenia first deputy minister of justice dismissed Israeli defense minister tests positive for COVID-19 Karabakh conflict resumption likelihood is moderate, its impact on US interests is low, report says Antonio Guterres thinks Russia will not invade Ukraine Azerbaijan ambassador to Russia hastens to sweeten the sediment of statement by US embassy in Baku IS fighters attack army barracks in mountainous area north of Baghdad, killing 11 soldiers Thomas de Waal: Will Armenia and Turkey be able to normalize relations after 3rd attempt? Armenia Security Council secretary, visiting EU delegation discuss situation on border with Azerbaijan Foreign ministers of Israel and Turkey have talk for 1st time in 13 years Fly Arna shareholders appoint companys Board of Directors 628 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia CSTO chief: Necessary to work on Armenia-Azerbaijan border delimitation, demarcation FBI search congressman's home in connection with Azerbaijan probe Newspaper: Armenia PM again goes way of black and white Newspaper: Scenario devised after war to be implemented in Artsakh EU Special Representative for South Caucasus arrives in Armenia Quake hits Armenia: 28 km northwest of Jermuk Crete island lighthouse illuminated with colors of Armenian tricolor Aurora Humanitarian Initiative to allocate $500,000 to projects in Artsakh Sajid Javid: Britain must learn to live with COVID-19, it could be with us forever Erdogan suggests Putin and Zelensky meet face to face EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus meets Aliyev US imposes sanctions on Ukrainians related to 'Russian harmful foreign activities' Sabah: Ankara refuses to hold next Armenian-Turkish meeting in a third country US general discusses regional security and bilateral cooperation in Armenia Secret graves of alleged protesters discovered in Almaty Armenian side members to Armenian-American Intergovernmental Commission confirmed WHO advises countries to lift or ease international travel restrictions US sanctions against Vladimir Putin, Ruben Vardanian and members of the Russian government Armenian Foreign Ministry discusses Mirzoyan's participation in Turkey forum Thailand to resume non-quarantine travel scheme from February 1 Instagram introduces paid subscription feature NEWS.am daily digest: 20.01.22 Europe considers new strategy to combat COVID-19 Norwegian prosecutors refuse release Anders Breivik, 2011 mass murderer Erdogan urges Turks to sell foreign currency for liras Azerbaijan not yet returned about 300 sheep of Armenia villager The Gender Centre at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) has organized a forum to sensitise community members at Nobi, a suburb of New Tafo in the Eastern Region, on teenage pregnancy. The Forum on the theme; "Strengthening Family And Community Links Towards Youth Education And Stewardship For Sustainable Development," sought to engage community members in efforts to help eradicate teenage pregnancy and its effects on the child, family and society. Dr Beatrice Akua Sakyiwah, Head of the Gender Centre at GIMPA, said research showed that children between the ages of nine to 15 were getting pregnant at a very alarming rate, especially in rural communities. She said the high rate of teenage pregnancy was worrying, especially when the criminal offence of defilement was being overlooked, noting that "defilement by either forced or consented means is a crime." She said there were laws to deal with perpetrators and urged parents not to settle defilement cases at home but to report such incidences to child protection agencies or the police. Dr Sakyiwah called on parents to step up their responsibilities to children to ensure proper transitioning to responsible teenagers and adults. She advised parents to support their pregnant teenage daughters after delivery to enable them to continue with their education to acquire skills and knowledge to enhance their lives. Mrs Ama Boateng, Programmes Officer at the Department of Gender in the Eastern Region, said the family is the most important unit of society and if rightly positioned, could offer the needed social protection for people. She said some parents were obsessed with their jobs and neglected their parental duties, resulting in their children becoming wayward and indulging in social vices. She said the family was not just about parents but persons living in society and entreated all to take interest in children's wellbeing for a better society. She advised the youth to also make use of good opportunities when it crossed their path to help eradicate poverty and hardship. Madam Mamata Al, the representative from Abuakwa North Municipality, who spoke on behalf of Ms Gifty Twum Ampofo, Member of Parliament for the area, commended the Gender Sector at GIMPA for the regional discussion to educate citizens, especially girls, on child pregnancy. She said to curb child pregnancy and enhancing youth advancement within the municipality, Abuakwa North had initiated a 'School For Life' programme to improve reading among children and support the youth in trade. She disclosed that about 150 youth in the municipality had benefitted from the initiative so far and pledged commitment on behalf of the MP to engage more of the youth to help eradicate youth idleness and enhance livelihoods. Ms Hannah Annan, a young woman who gave birth at the age of 13, said giving birth at a young age was very difficult and urged young girls to focus on education, a vital key in sustainable development, rather than sex. She appealed to parents to provide the needs of their children, especially the girl child to guarantee them a bright future. Source: GNA 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 Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. Bharat Book Bureau Provides the Trending Market Research Report on Global OTA Transmission Platform Market Size study, by Component (Platform, Services) and Regional Forecasts 2020-2027under Business Services Category. The report offers a collection of superior market research, market analysis, competitive intelligence and Market reports. Global OTA Transmission Platform Market is valued at approximately USD 95.6 million in 2019 and is anticipated to grow with a healthy growth rate of more than 3.4% over the forecast period 2020-2027. Over-the-Air (OTA) is a type of platform for wireless transmission in the broadcasting sector. OTA transmission platforms are increasingly used in television and radio platforms for broadcasting channels wirelessly. With the advancement in transmission technology, the broadcasting industry is also varying its broadcasting channel platform by adopting advanced technology transmission platforms. The significant technology used in the OTA transmission platform is Advanced Television Systems Committee (ARTC) 3.0 standard, which is a next-generation transmission platform that deploys advanced error correction for the physical layer and new technologies to create wireless data via an IP delivery system. Request a free sample copy OTA Transmission Platform Market Report @ https://www.bharatbook.com/marketreports/sample/reports/2166466 Therefore, these factors are anticipated to accelerate market growth around the world. Moreover, the increasing penetration of digital television around the world, along with the technological advancements and digitalization in television broadcasting are few other factors responsible for the market growth over the forecast period. For instance, according to the VIVE Network (Texas, U.S.), around 31% of U.S. households have owned 4K Ultra HDTV in 2018, represent an increase from nearly 16% in 2017. In 2017, as per the Statista, over 4 million households in Japan owned a 4K TV and this figure is expected to grow to almost 27 million households in the fiscal year of 2024., as per the Statista. Therefore, this factor is expected to accelerate the demand for the OTA Transmission Platform around the world. Although, the recent outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has been increasing the demand for the OTA transmission platform due to several regional government has imposed lockdown to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus. Therefore, many people temporarily do not have any kind of work, which results that they are getting more engaged in watching television. This is likely to leverage the market growth during the forecast period. However, lack of sufficient OTA infrastructure is one of the major factors impeding the market growth over the forecast period of 2020-2027. The regional analysis of the global OTA Transmission Platform market is considered for the key regions such as Asia Pacific, North America, Europe, Latin America, and Rest of the World. North America is the leading/significant region across the world in terms of market share owing to the increasing popularity of 4K and 8K televisions, along with the presence of a significant number of market players in the region. Whereas Asia-Pacific is anticipated to exhibit the highest growth rate / CAGR over the forecast period 2020-2027. Factors such as the rapid digitization in the television broadcasting industry, along with the rise in the improvement of picture quality and wireless transmission platforms would create lucrative growth prospects for the OTA Transmission Platform market across the Asia-Pacific region. Major market player included in this report are: AirTV L.L.C Channel Master GatesAir Inc. Gemalto NV Harmonic Inc. LG Electronics Inc. One Media 3.0 LLC. Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc. SK Telecom Co. Ltd. TiVo Corporation The objective of the study is to define market sizes of different segments & countries in recent years and to forecast the values to the coming eight years. The report is designed to incorporate both qualitative and quantitative aspects of the industry within each of the regions and countries involved in the study. Furthermore, the report also caters the detailed information about the crucial aspects such as driving factors & challenges which will define the future growth of the market. Additionally, the report shall also incorporate available opportunities in micro markets for stakeholders to invest along with the detailed analysis of competitive landscape and product offerings of key players. The detailed segments and sub-segment of the market are explained below: By Component: Platform Services By Region: North America U.S. Canada Europe UK Germany France Spain Italy ROE Asia Pacific China India Japan Australia South Korea RoAPAC Latin America Brazil Mexico Rest of the World Furthermore, years considered for the study are as follows: Historical year 2017, 2018 Base year 2019 Forecast period 2020 to 2027 Target Audience of the Global OTA Transmission Platform Market in Market Study: Key Consulting Companies & Advisors Large, medium-sized, and small enterprises Venture capitalists Value-Added Resellers (VARs) Third-party knowledge providers Investment bankers Investors Browse our full report with Table of Content : https://www.bharatbook.com/marketreports/global-ota-transmission-platform-market-size-study-by-component-platform-services-and-regional-forecasts-2020-2027/2166466 About Bharat Book Bureau: Bharat Book is Your One-Stop-Shop with an exhaustive coverage of 4,80,000 reports and insights that includes latest Market Study, Market Trends & Analysis, Forecasts Customized Intelligence, Newsletters and Online Databases. Overall a comprehensive coverage of major industries with a further segmentation of 100+ subsectors. Contact us at: Bharat Book Bureau Tel: +91 22 27810772 / 27810773 Email: poonam@bharatbook.com Website: www.bharatbook.com Now more than ever, it is vital for organizations to make STEM education more approachable and accessible for youth in underserved communities to ensure educational justice and to help narrow the STEM gap." - Michele Tuck-Ponder Destination Imagination (DI), a non-profit organization dedicated to teaching students the creative process through hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) and service learning challenges, today announced it has received a $30,000 grant from the Motorola Solutions Foundation, the charitable arm of Motorola Solutions. Through the grant, Destination Imagination will have the opportunity to further expand access to its program for students in underserved communities in eight statesAlabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Texas and Washington. Now more than ever, it is vital for organizations to make STEM education more approachable and accessible for youth in underserved communities to ensure educational justice and to help narrow the STEM gap, said Michele Tuck-Ponder, Executive Director of Destination Imagination, Inc. We are honored to continue working with the Motorola Solutions Foundation on this significant mission, and through this generous grant, we will have the opportunity to support and empower hundreds of students from diverse backgrounds and to center the voices of the most marginalized. The Motorola Solutions Foundation awards grants each year to organizations, such as Destination Imagination, that support and advance education initiatives in public safety and technology and engineering. Additionally, the Foundation has a long-standing commitment to supporting programs that benefit underrepresented populations, including females, people of color, people with disabilities, veterans and others. This year, the Foundations grants will support programs that help millions of students, teachers, first responders and community members around the globe, said Karem Perez, executive director of the Motorola Solutions Foundation. We are thrilled to partner with organizations like Destination Imagination that are actively making a positive difference in their communities. Funding is available for Title I schools and youth/community organizations to cover the costs associated with running the Destination Imagination Challenge Experience for middle and high school students in certain communities throughout the U.S. For more information, please contact Destination Imagination at info@dihq.org. For additional information on the Motorola Solutions Foundation grants program, visit http://motorolasolutions.com/foundation For more information on Destination Imagination, please visit http://destinationimagination.org About Destination Imagination Destination Imagination, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) volunteer-led non-profit organization whose purpose is to inspire and equip students to become the next generation of innovators and leaders. The organization is a leader in project-based learning experiences, where students work together in teams to solve open-ended STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) and service learning Challenges and then present their solutions at tournaments. Since its foundation in 1999, Destination Imagination has impacted more than one million students. To learn more, please visit http://destinationimagination.org. About the Motorola Solutions Foundation The Motorola Solutions Foundation is the charitable and philanthropic arm of Motorola Solutions. With employees located around the globe, Motorola Solutions seeks to benefit the communities where it operates. The Foundation achieves this by making strategic grants, forging strong community partnerships and fostering innovation. The Motorola Solutions Foundation prioritizes its funding on public safety education, technology & engineering education, disaster relief, and employee volunteerism. For more information on Motorola Solutions corporate and foundation giving, visit our website: http://motorolasolutions.com/foundation As many as 1,591 new cases of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 have been recorded in Romania since the previous reporting, the Strategic Communication Group (GCS), the official novel coronavirus communication task force, announced on Monday, according to Agerpres. All the new cases involve patients that did not test positive before. Romania's SARS-CoV-2 total case count reached 137,491 on Friday. As many as 108,526 persons were declared cured. According to GCS, 2,516,746 tests have been processed nationwide in Romania. Of these, 6,537 were performed in the last 24 hours - 4,454 based on the definition of the case and the medical protocol and 2,083 upon request. Another 45 people - 27 men and 18 women - infected with the novel coronavirus died, bringing the COVID-19 total death toll in Romania to 5,048. According to the GCS, 42 of the deaths were recorded in patients with comorbidities, and three patients did not have comorbidities. Of these, two deaths were recorded in the age category 40 to 49 years, 5 deaths in the age category 60 to 69 years, 18 deaths in the age category 70 to 79 years and 20 deaths in the category over 80 years. A number of 8,001 people with COVID-19 were hospitalised in specialist healthcare facilities. There were 592 patients admitted to ICUs. In Romania, 11,283 people confirmed with the novel coronavirus are in isolation at home, and 7,629 are in institutional isolation. Also, 23,014 people are in quarantine at home, and 28 in institutional quarantine. A number of 249 people were retested and reconfirmed to be positive. The number of Romanians outside the country confirmed with the novel coronavirus is 6,702, while the number of deaths, 126, remained unchanged since the last report. In the last 24 hours, police and gendarmes have applied 2,630 contraventional sanctions, amounting to 394,473 lei, as a result of violating the provisions of Law 55/2020 on certain measures to prevent and combat the effects of the COFID-19 pandemic. Bucharest - 562 and the counties of Iasi - 116, Cluj - 83, Neamt - 69, Galati - 65 and Prahova - 59 are the areas with the most newly confirmed cases of coronavirus compared to the last report, informs the Strategic Communication Group on Monday. Most SARS-CoV-2 cases are in Bucharest - 19,389 and in the counties of Suceava - 6,779, Brasov - 6,411, Prahova - 6,213. As of August 26th, 2021 Yahoo India will no longer be publishing content. Your Yahoo Account Mail and Search experiences will not be affected in any way and will operate as usual. We thank you for your support and readership. For more information on Yahoo India, please visit the FAQ NORWALK The League of Women Voters of Norwalk will present a virtual candidate forum on Oct. 22. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., candidates will have a chance to discuss the issues with their opponents via a live stream, according to a news release from LWV Norwalk. The event will be live-streamed on Zoom as well as recorded for later viewing. Each segment will begin with League questions followed by questions submitted by the audience. Candidates will have a half hour to debate. State representative candidates will start the debate with 137th District candidates Chris Perone and Ellen Wink at 6:30 p.m. At 7 p.m., candidates for the 140th District, Travis Simms and John Flynn will debate, followed by 142nd District candidates Lucy Dathan and Fred Wilms at 7:30 p.m. and 143rd District candidates Stephanie Thomas and Patrizia Zucaro at 8 p.m. The event will finish off with a debate between candidates for the 25th Senate District Bob Duff and Ellie Kousidis. Questions for candidates can be submitted by Oct. 17 to lwvn.forum@gmail.com. Those submitting questions should specify to which district the question is directed. The debate will be posted on the League of Women Voters of Norwalk website, https://my.lwv.org/connecticut/lwv-norwalk and Facebook page, League of Women Voters Norwalk CT. To register for the forum, please use the Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PutyS2sJSSmH_wEda1qMOg After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. Dawson's Creek alum Katie Holmes happily chatted with her boyfriend Emilio Vitolo Jr.'s father Emilio Sr. outside his authentic Italian restaurant in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood on Sunday night. The 33-year-old actor-chef works in the kitchen at Emilio's Ballata, the 64-year-old first-come, first-serve eatery that his 60-year-old father bought back in the early nineties. The Ohio-born 41-year-old was beaming as she held hands with Emilio, whom she went public with on September 1 around the same time he dumped his live-in fiancee Rachel Emmons via text. Future father-in-law? Dawson's Creek alum Katie Holmes (R) happily chatted with her boyfriend Emilio Vitolo Jr.'s (2-R) father Emilio Sr. (L) outside his authentic Italian restaurant in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood on Sunday night Holmes and Vitolo made sure to protect themselves and others from the coronavirus by wearing matching black masks. 'I was sick for a while. I've never felt like this before, and I tried to book an appointment to be seen and they were like, "Unless you're dying you're not coming to the hospital." So I self-quarantined myself,' the Zeroes actor recalled to The Birthday Cake movie vlog on May 28. 'I feel great [now], but my lungs are still f***ed up. You know me, I've always been a smoker. I've been smoking since I'm like 14 years old. I haven't touched a cigarette because all this s***. It really screwed me up. I've got an asthma pump and that's been working. 'It kind of like opened up my lungs a little bit. I'm like s*** man. Yeah, a month and a half that's how long it took for me to freaking recover from this s***. And then I got tested and I didn't have it anymore. I'm positive that's what the f*** I had bro.' Inside look: The 33-year-old actor-chef (L) works in the kitchen at Emilio's Ballata, the 64-year-old first-come, first-serve eatery that his 60-year-old father (R) bought back in the early nineties (pictured in 2017 with Danny DeVito) Happier than ever! The Ohio-born 41-year-old was beaming as she held hands with Emilio, whom she went public with on September 1 around the same time he dumped his live-in fiancee Rachel Emmons via text Mandatory in New York: Holmes and Vitolo made sure to protect themselves and others from the coronavirus by wearing matching black masks As of Sunday, there have reportedly been an eye-popping 251K confirmed COVID-19 cases in New York City leading to over 23K deaths. Last Tuesday, Mayor Bill de Blasio warned he would begin imposing fines for anti-maskers because the city spiked 3% for the first time in months. The 59-year-old politician told CBS News: 'We don't want to fine people. If we have to, we will. And that will be starting on a large scale today.' Emilio will next play a gangster called Cousin Emilio in Jimmy Giannopoulos' crime thriller The Birthday Cake alongside Val Kilmer, Vincent Pastore, Ewan McGregor, Lorraine Bracco, Paul Sorvino, and Ashley Benson. 'My lungs are still f***ed up': The Zeroes actor revealed on The Birthday Cake movie vlog on May 28 that he suffered a 45-day bout with COVID-19 He continued: 'I haven't touched a cigarette because all this s***. It really screwed me up. I've got an asthma pump and that's been working. It kind of like opened up my lungs a little bit. I'm like s*** man. Yeah, a month and a half that's how long it took for me to freaking recover' Acting gig: Emilio (5-L) will next play a gangster called Cousin Emilio in Jimmy Giannopoulos' crime thriller The Birthday Cake alongside Val Kilmer, Vincent Pastore, Ewan McGregor, Lorraine Bracco, Paul Sorvino, and Ashley Benson (pictured December 31) Coming soon! On August 29, producers revealed they were 'nearing the end of post' on the picture, which looks 'incredible' with the sound design in place On August 29, producers revealed they were 'nearing the end of post' on the picture, which looks 'incredible' with the sound design in place. Vitolo is Katie's first real relationship since ending her on/off six-year romance in May 2019 with Oscar winner Jamie Foxx, who co-starred with her ex-husband Tom Cruise in Michael Mann's 2004 movie Collateral. Worryingly, the 58-year-old Oscar nominee hasn't been pictured with their 14-year-old daughter Suri in eight years, even though his custody arrangement allots '10 days a month of visitation' - according to Us Weekly. The Secret: Dare to Dream star ended her six-year marriage to Cruise in 2012. Dawson's Creek is available to stream on Stan in Australia Exes: Vitolo is Katie's first real relationship since ending her on/off six-year romance in May 2019 with Oscar winner Jamie Foxx (L), who co-starred with her ex-husband Tom Cruise in Michael Mann's 2004 movie Collateral (pictured in 2019) US search engine tech firm Moz is to establish a new team in Cork employing 10 people. The announcement forms part of more than 200 new jobs confirmed by seven high-growth companies from Europe and the US. Headquartered in Seattle Moz, is a leader in search engine optimization technology. The team is working out of the Glandore Office which overlooks the River Lee and the firm will create up to 10 jobs initially for customer support executives and account managers to support its continued expansion into the European market. The other new jobs were announced for companies located in Dublin, Kildare and Sligo. An Tanaiste Leo Varadkar TD said the companies have been identified as having high growth potential and are working on some really exciting projects. Martin Shanahan CEO, IDA Ireland welcomed the locational spread of the investments "which shows that the technology offering, availability of talent and attractive work-life balance in the regions resonates with overseas investors. Eliatra an IT company focused on big data, cloud services has announced that it has chosen Sligo to locate its new Product Development and European HQ. The company plans to employ 15 people over the next three years in areas such as product development, technical support, sales and marketing roles. Hellios, the UK headquartered supplier information and risk management solution company today announced that it is establishing a Software Development centre in Dublin and will create 24 new developer roles. National Technologies (NTI), the US company that provides fibre optic and data centre installation services, today announced the opening of its EMEA HQ in Park West, Dublin. This is National Technologies first international operations outside of the US and will see 52 high-quality roles created over the next three years. Nulia, headquartered in Eugene, Oregon, announced that it has chosen Dublin as the location for its EMEA Headquarters to service its existing customers in the EMEA market and to grow its presence in the region. The company is currently ramping up its Dublin team, and plans to employ 40 or more people across sales, customer success, software engineering, data science, and operations. ProSearch, a leading provider of comprehensive discovery solutions to corporate legal departments and law firms, announces the expansion of the companys full-service office in Dublin, Ireland. The Dublin facility, first established in 2019, works closely with the companys Los Angeles headquarters to address growing client demand for US-EU cross-border discovery solutions. Simple But Needed (SBN) a privately held developer of safety and risk management software systems, headquartered in San Francisco, announced that it is to set up its European Headquarters in Kildare Town, Co Kildare, with plans to employ 20 people over three years in the areas of sales, product support, customer success and engineering sales personnel. The only hopeful sign is that talking continues, though trust is shattered. German Chancellor Angela Merkel starts her working week on Monday playing host to the chief EU Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, in the German capital. Chancellor Merkel is an important player in all of this and, while other EU leaders lose patience with London and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, she continues to stress the need for a deal. Ms Merkel will get an update on talks flashpoints the demand that London keep EU standards on environment and labour law and on state aids to business. The jobs of thousands of German car workers are riding on avoiding a crash-out Brexit on December 31. Read More London Boris Johnson is striking a slightly less belligerent tone after video-conference talks with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday. Both leaders put the bright side out after those discussions and insisted a deal can be done but with no indication as to how. Mr Johnson said on Sunday that he did not want a no-deal outcome to Brexit. But then he added: We can more than live with it. The London government is again saying that the EU should do a deal like it did with Canada in 2017. This exempts a lot of Canadian goods from tariffs and allows pretty high import quotas but it is not an out-and-out free trade deal and also involves checks for product standards. Mr Johnson continually argues that Canada has no conditions about environment, labour law and state aid. But the EU counters that Canada is different because trade volumes are nothing like EU-UK trade levels and Canada is very far away. Talks continue At all events Mr Barnier is back in London on Wednesday for talks with his UK counterpart, David Frost. That is a sign of hope in itself despite the erosion of trust by the UKs unilateral move to break an international treaty on the post-Brexit trade status of Northern Ireland. And thats not all Michel Barnier has ahead of him this week. He is beginning a series of discussions with various fishery ministers about another tricky issue EU fishing boats access to UK waters after Brexit. Seven countries including Ireland are concerned here. The issue packs a bigger political punch than the volumes of money concerned would immediately suggest. In UK politics fishing waters sovereignty has been evoked as symbolic in the need to take back control from the EU. But the UK is not the only country with domestic political issues at stake here. In France, President Emmanuel Macron, whose popularity is on the slide, is under big pressure from French fishery interests. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council is set to meet on October 5 for the first time after the Centre provided the states with two borrowing options to solve the issue of compensation dues. As many as 21 states opted to borrow Rs 97,000 crore to meet the GST revenue shortfall. Most of these states are ruled by the BJP or parties which have supported it on various issues. The states and union territories which have intimated their decision to the Centre are Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Puducherry, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The states of Jharkhand, Kerala, Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and West Bengal are yet to respond to the GST Council proposal to decide on their options. As states are hard-pressed for finances to meet their expenditure, some states like Bihar want the issue of pending compensation dues worth over Rs 2 lakh crore to be settled at the earliest. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show In a letter to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi said that the Centre should sort out the issue as fast as possible and let states that have already submitted their choice to borrow. With GST revenue turning negative and the compensation having been delayed, I need not impress upon you the fact that all the states are in urgent need of funds. We will very soon be entering the second half of the current fiscal year and all of us need to do a lot of catching up on the activities planned for the current year and which have been on hold due to lack of sufficient fundsavailability of funds, even if the same are in the form of debts, will enable cash-strapped states to once again kick-start the development process which has come to a halt in the face of the ongoing pandemic, Modi said in the letter. According to government sources, states which do not submit their borrowing options before the GST Council meet on October 5, 2020, will have to wait till June 2022 to get their compensation dues, subject to the condition that the GST Council extends the cess collection period beyond 2022. "There may be a relooking at the terms of the two borrowing options, but the options would remain the same. It is unlikely that there would be any change on that," a senior government official said. The Centre has proposed that it would increase the interest-free borrowing limit for states to around Rs 1.1 lakh crore through the special window of the Reserve Bank of India to make up for the compensation shortfall, up from Rs 97,000 crore it proposed earlier. It has revised its GST growth forecast to 7 percent, from 10 percent estimated earlier. The opposition-ruled states that have not yet accepted either of the two options, reportedly might also press for a dispute resolution mechanism, a model incorporated in the Constitution Amendment Bill of 2011. Since 21 states have already given their choice, a voting on the matter would not have any significance for opposing states. In the current fiscal, the states are staring at a staggering Rs 2.35 lakh crore GST revenue shortfall. Of this, as per the Centre's calculation, shortfall of about Rs 97,000 crore is on account of GST implementation and rest Rs 1.38 lakh crore is due to the impact of COVID-19 on states' revenues. The Centre late last month gave two options to the states to borrow either Rs 97,000 crore from a special window facilitated by the Reserve Bank of India or Rs 2.35 lakh crore from the market, and has also proposed extending the compensation cess levied on luxury, demerit and sin goods beyond 2022 to repay the borrowing. "States must stand firm on the rejection of the two meaningless options offered by the Centre and insist that the Centre should find the money and pay the promised compensation," former finance minister P Chidambaram said on Twitter. He said that the outcome of the GST Council meeting today would be a test for the central governments adherence to law and to its promises. "There are two deficits: GST Compensation deficit and Trust deficit. The Centre has no clue about how to bridge either deficit," he said. A resident of Ibadan in Oyo State, Francis Adekoya, has accused officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the state of causing the loss of his wifes three months old pregnancy. He said his wife, Funmilola, a mother of one, lost the pregnancy after an official of NSCDC pressed an electrical gadget on her stomach on September 29 at his shop in Gbangbalolonwa Complex, Idi-Ope, Imolefalafia, Oke-Ado in Ibadan. He alleged that NSCDC officials sprayed them with a gaseous substance after which his wife lost consciousness. Mr Adekoya said the officials had accompanied officials of the State Board of Internal Revenue into his shop early in the morning, demanding payment of his tax. When the men who were guarded by two NSCDC operatives entered my shop, they claimed to be collecting N2,000 tax for the Oyo State Board of Internal Revenue. However, I told them that I had not made any sale that morning and that there was no pre-notice of their coming and so I did not prepare any money ahead. I pleaded with them to give me until the afternoon, but they threatened to apply force on me.They insisted on sealing up my shop but I tried to prevent them. One of the NSCDC operatives later dragged me out of the shop. He said his wife tried to prevail on the revenue collectors and the NSCDC operatives, but they instead injected her and also applied a substance on her after which she collapsed and fainted. Our neighbours rushed her to the hospital where she was revived. The medical doctor told me that it was only God that saved her life, adding that she has lost the three-month old pregnancy she was carrying. As I speak, she is still receiving treatment in the hospital. But the NSCDC has denied Mr Adekoyas allegations as an afterthought, saying some persons had attacked its officials in the incident. The NSCDC spokesperson in the state, Oluluwole Olusegun, said the NSCDC officials were on legal duty when the incident occurred. That is not the true story. On 29th, September, 2020 at exactly 1400hrs, a distress call was put across to the division informing us that two officers that were deployed to provide security for Oyo State Board of Internal Revenue were being attacked at Imalefalafia area of Ibadan South West LGA. A reinforcement was sent to the scene of the incident. The officers and the officials were rescued from the mammoth crowd. What the couple said is an afterthought. As a country that is deeply attached to the ideal of European unity, Romania is a staunch and reliable partner of Germany's, Romanian President Klaus Iohannis said on Monday at a German Unity Day celebration in Bucharest. "I would like to thank Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier for his words of praise for the co-operation between Romania and Germany and to assure him that Romania, as a country that is deeply attached to the ideal of European unity, Romania is a staunch and reliable partner of Germany's in Central and Eastern Europe. I am looking forward to the federal president's visit to Bucharest as soon as conditions permit," he said.Iohannis quoted Chancellor Konrad Adenauer as saying: "We all live under the same sky, but we don't all have the same horizon.""The reunification of the German nation on October 3, 1990, was an important contribution to the common European future. We owe it to ourselves to continue to building a common future for our citizens, in the spirit of co-operation, solidarity and cohesion, all that defines our European design," the president said.He added that the "excellent and solid" relationship between Romania and Germany "has evolved continuously and dynamically, having a truly strategic nature now.""This year's celebration of 30 years since the reunification of Germany, as well as the marking, last year, of the same anniversary since the fall of the Berlin Wall, are essential historical landmarks of the German people, but also of a democratic, united, open and strong Europe," said Iohannis.He also mentioned the importance of the Romanian community in Germany and of the German community in Romania.At the same time, Iohannis said that, currently, the presidency of the Council of the European Union is held by Germany."We appreciate the commitment and contribution of the German presidency of the Council of the European Union to consolidating the European design. Rest assured that you will continue to have a close partner in Romania to achieve the goal. We need a united, prosperous, secure Europe closer to its citizens, with a stronger global profile," said Iohannis.He mentioned the economic recovery package adopted by EU leaders this summer."The agreement, of historic importance, will significantly support the economies of the member states affected by the health crisis and will contribute to the consolidation of the European project," the head of state said.He also added that "the protection of citizens, freedoms and European values is a key objective of the European Union's future actions, as we are facing a growing number of threats both inside and outside the borders of the European Union.""I am convinced that a strong union - both internally and globally - will continue to bring prosperity and security to its citizens, will continue to innovate and meet technological challenges, to be a competitive economic player and to have a recognized impact globally while also being a model for democracy," said Iohannis. As the tow truck was trying to hook up the car, they heard a single gunshot inside the car. Two people got out yelling someone had been shot, a release said. TORONTO - Ontario is facing a shortage of diagnostic technicians that is contributing to medical laboratories being overwhelmed, Premier Doug Ford said Monday, acknowledging the province is reaching its limit when it comes to testing for COVID-19. Ford stressed that the demand for the services of the technicians and a worldwide shortage in the chemicals needed to process tests are both reasons why the province has developed a significant backlog of unprocessed tests. The government continues to reach out to universities and private laboratories to bolster its testing capacity, Ford said, as Ontario recorded a backlog of approximately 68,000 tests Monday. We have an issue with getting enough diagnostic lab technicians, were reaching out right across the province, he said. The comments came after Ontario changed its testing guidance last week, asking only people with COVID-19 symptoms or those who are in high risk groups to get tested. The updated guidelines also say assessment centres will no longer accept walk-ins, and will move to an appointment-based system starting Tuesday. The move was made to cut increasing demand at the centres, which had hours-long lines and were turning people away. The province said many of those lining up for tests were doing so to seek reassurance, but did not need an assessment for the virus. Meanwhile, the province said it was sending 200 workers to Toronto to help with contact tracing after the city said over the weekend that it was suspending most of those efforts. Fords spokesman said the government was also urging Toronto to move to the provinces case and contact management system, which 30 of Ontarios health units have done. Doing so would allow the province to quickly re-allocate personnel from other public health units with lower rates of transmission to support this important function, Travis Kann said in a statement. On Saturday, Toronto Public Health said the rapid increase in the citys case load made a strategic shift necessary in its approach to tracing those who may have been in contact with a COVID-19 patient. Officials previously tried to connect with all close contacts of infected residents, but the current case load makes such an approach unsustainable, the unit said. Torontos medical officer of health said Monday the province needs to take broader action to bring case counts down to a point were contract tracing is once again manageable. Eileen De Villa repeated a call first made Friday for the province to ban indoor restaurant and bar service for four weeks two incubation periods for the virus suspend indoor fitness classes and sports, and ask people to only leave their homes for essential trips. Its that level of public health measure and intervention that brings down the amount of social interaction ... and therefore is most effective, she said. Ford pushed back against De Villas call, saying Monday that he needed to see more data before making the broad changes being sought. I cant make a willy-nilly decision and just close everything down, he said. I need to see hard evidence. Meanwhile, later Monday, the provinces associate medical officer of health moved to clarify Ontarios stance surrounding social bubbles. Late last week, the province said the 10-person social bubble concept was paused across Ontario in light of the recent surge in cases. Dr. Barbara Yaffe said people are now asked to reserve close contact to only people they live with, including for Thanksgiving Day weekend. The social circle at this point is not relevant, she said. It was relevant, (but) as we go along this outbreak is changing. Were learning. Its evolving. Given the current picture were saying stick to your household. Ontario reported 615 new cases of COVID-19 on Monday, and five new deaths due to the virus. Health Minister Christine Elliott said 289 cases were in Toronto, 88 in Peel Region and 81 in Ottawa. She said 58 per cent of those cases were in people under the age of 40. This report by The Canadian Press was first published October 5, 2020. Pipeline 5 October 2020 Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with TTS Resorts LTD. for the first Hyatt-branded hotel in St. Lucia. The 345-room luxury Grand Hyatt hotel is expected to open in 2023 and signifies Hyatt's continued brand growth into the Caribbean's leading travel destinations. A new-build resort, Grand Hyatt St. Lucia will be located on the southwestern corner of the island in Sunset Bay, Choiseul. Grand Hyatt St. Lucia will be a captivating destination, featuring 345 guestrooms, including more than 50 luxury suites; three restaurants that will feature world-class chefs and iconic dishes reflective of the destination; three bars, including a lobby lounge, pool bar and beach-side bar; a 8,000 square foot destination spa and fitness center to connect guests with their physical and mental wellbeing; three swimming pools; and more than 23,000 square feet of dynamic, state-of-the-art gathering spaces designed to handle events of any size and kind. Additional offerings and amenities will include a kid's club and activity center, retails shops and an ultramodern screening room. This resort will encompass two hilltops that will command spectacular view of St. Lucia's two famous volcanic spires, Gros Piton and Petit Piton. The Pitons are a designated World Heritage Site and will be less than 30 miles from Grand Hyatt St. Lucia, positioning the resort as an ideal starting point for excursions, tours, scuba diving, and more. Additionally, the resort will be a 30-minute drive from the island's Hewanorra International Airport (UVF). The Congress protested across Assam on Monday, demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal over the leak of question paper for a police recruitment exams, and a judicial probe into the matter. Senior party leaders, including state president Ripun Bora, Nagaon MP Pradyut Bordoloi, former state minister and MLA Rakibul Hussain, led the protests in different district headquarters. Bora, who led a protest march in Tezpur, alleged that many important persons were involved in the incident and a judicial probe must be ordered into it immediately. The Congress workers got into scuffles with police in several areas, leaving many with injuries. The partys Dhubri unit chief Uttam Sarkar was admitted to a hospital after being injured in one such incident. The Congress workers marched from their respective party offices towards the office of the district police chiefs. In most of the districts, several of them were taken into custody, officials said. On September 20, the question paper of the written examination for 597 posts of unarmed sub-inspectors in AssamPolice was leaked and the State Level Police Recruitment Board (SLPRB) cancelled the test minutes after it had commenced. So far 32 people have been arrested in the case, officials said. Among them are prime accused BJP leader Bibon Deka and Congress leader Atab Ali. On Sunday, President Trump issued another of his short videos from Walter Reed Hospital. In it, he promised his supporters a surprise. He then followed through with that surprise by taking a car ride past those of his supporters gathered outside the hospital and waving as he drove by. Trump's supporters were thrilled. Leftists, both inside and outside the hospital, had a collective mental breakdown, which, coming on top of their sustained four-year-long breakdown, was even more irrational than usual. It all started with a sweet video in which Trump, looking great, said he's doing well, thanked his caregivers, talked about some of the military patients at the hospital, and promised that he was "about to make a little surprise visit." He also said he learned a lot about COVID from going to the "real school." As with Trump's previous hospitalization video, this most recent video has been hugely popular. Within a few hours, it was seen 16.5 million times and got almost 400,000 likes. And then Trump, being Trump, made good on his promise. He got in a limo (separated by a glass shield from his driver and a visible Secret Service agent) and drove up and down the road, waving hello to his supporters: President Trump drives by supporters outside Walter Reed Medical Center. pic.twitter.com/V5UchepTRs CSPAN (@cspan) October 4, 2020 By going on this little ride, Trump established (a) that he really is doing well and (b) that he will always be there for the American people. Leftists fully understood the message Trump was sending, so they had conniptions, trying to turn Trump into a doctor-disobeying, germ-spewing menace. The best-in-show for over-the-top responses had to have come from Jordan Fabian, a 33-year-old nincompoop who works as a White House correspondent for Bloomberg News: President Trump, who is infected with a potentially lethal virus, left the Walter Reed campus 2+ hours after the White House called a lid and sent home the protective pool to drive inside a closed SUV, sitting less than six feet apart from other passengers https://t.co/NWkdZCEzEv Jordan Fabian (@Jordanfabian) October 4, 2020 Chip Franklin, a San Franciscobased media personality, chimed in with hysterical fear for the Secret Service agents in the car with him: Trump just took a joy ride around Walter Reed.... He's f*cking insane. 200,000+ dead and he's putting more Secret Service at risk. pic.twitter.com/X1LOHfOpVv Chip Franklin (@chipfranklin) October 4, 2020 Daniel Newman, a Hollywood something-or-other, even had a graphic demonstrating that Trump was killing his Secret Service agents: Trump is "ProLIFE". Just Apparently Not for the lives of the people in his car he's endangering with COVID for photo-ops, or in his office, or secret service, or sick Soldiers in his hospital, or 200,000+ dead citizens of this country. pic.twitter.com/iZaA16bYw0 DanielNewma (@DanielNewman) October 5, 2020 All of these people seem unclear about the fact that Trump's Secret Service agents are always with him, whether he's in the White House, a hospital room, or a car. It doesn't matter. Just as they'll take a bullet to protect him, they'll also take a virus. But by the left's mask logic, those Secret Service agents are completely safe. If you look at the pictures, including the one with the nice arrows, both Trump and the agent are wearing masks. Leftists assure us that if you wear a mask, you're neither a giver nor a receiver. (Or at least, that masks make it virtually impossible that you'll be the infector or the infectee.) In addition to the non-medical blue-check hysterics, we also heard from Leana Wen, M.D. Wen is a former Baltimore City Health Commissioner i.e., a Democrat operative so you know how much she cares about people. In her tweet, she insists that Trump's decision to go for a car ride is proof that he needs a psychiatric examination (think: the 25th Amendment): If @realDonaldTrump were my patient, in unstable condition + contagious illness, & he suddenly left the hospital to go for a car ride that endangers himself & others: I'd call security to restrain him then perform a psychiatric evaluation to examine his decision-making capacity. Leana Wen, M.D. (@DrLeanaWen) October 4, 2020 Remind me never to reach out to Wen if I get sick. I wonder if she knows that the doctors okayed the drive-by: NEW: Doctors okayed POTUS drive-by supporters. Deputy Press Secretary tells @markknoller Appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect POTUS + all those supporting it, including PPE...cleared by the medical team as safe to do. @CBSNews Catherine Herridge (@CBS_Herridge) October 5, 2020 Finally, the reporters' egos were deeply damaged because the White House didn't warn them about Trump's planned excursion (emphasis mine): The pool of reporters that travels with the president whenever he moves from one location to another was not notified of Trump's drive-by. White House Correspondents' Association President Zeke Miller said in a statement that it was "outrageous" for Trump to have left the hospital without a protective pool. When it comes to protecting the president, I would opt for the Secret Service over a "protective pool" of reporters every time. No matter how much the left tries to create a drama here, by Sunday night, it was clear that the president is responding well to treatment. He also got his doctor's permission to go on a car ride, taking with him the Secret Service agents who spend all their time around him anyway. Trump's little drive-by was a smart thing to do politically, and the leftists would have been better to downplay it, not make it part of their perpetual melodrama. We should be grateful, I guess, that they insist on showing that Trump is nice and they are insane. Image: Trump goes for a ride. Twitter screen grab. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 13:26:53|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close SHANGHAI, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai reported 10 imported COVID-19 cases and no domestically transmitted cases on Sunday, the municipal health commission said Monday. Four of the cases were Chinese nationals who left Ghana, Spain, the United States and Mauritania, respectively, and arrived at the Shanghai Pudong International Airport over last week. The other six cases involved Chinese, Russian and Armenian nationals departing from Armenia and Russia to arrive at the same airport on Oct. 2. All of the patients have been sent to a designated medical institution for treatment. A total of 350 people in close contact with the patients on flights have been put under quarantine. The municipal health commission said a total of 680 imported cases had been reported in Shanghai by Sunday. Among them, 622 patients were discharged from hospital after recovery, and 58 continued to receive treatment in hospitals with one in severe condition. By Sunday, the municipality had reported 342 locally transmitted confirmed cases, including seven deaths. Enditem Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 12:52 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4925cda 1 National medical-workers,doctors,nurses,dentists,#ingatpesanibu,#ingatpesanibucucitangan,#ingatpesanibupakaimasker,ingatpesanibujagajarak,#jagajarakhindarikerumunan,pakai-masker,#cucitanganpakaisabun,COVID-19-in-Indonesia,jaga-jarak,#wearmask Free More medical workers have lost their lives to the coronavirus as the number of cases continues to grow at an alarming rate in Indonesia. The Indonesian Medical Association (IDI) announced on Saturday that 130 doctors had died of COVID-19. According to the IDI data, 67 of the fallen doctors were general practitioners, 61 were specialist doctors and two were residents. Nine of them were also professors. Physician deaths were reported from IDI branches in 18 provinces and 61 regencies. Dentists and nurses also lost their lives to the coronavirus. The Indonesian Dentists Association (PDGI) has reported that nine dentists have died from the disease. Meanwhile, the Indonesian Nurses Association (PPNI) has revealed that 92 nurses have lost their lives in the fight against the pandemic. IDI mitigation team deputy head Ari Kusuma Januarto expressed his concerns over the increased mortality rate of medical workers. Although the government has created awareness about the importance of complying with health protocol, the number of health worker deaths continues to increase rapidly, he said. Read also: IDI urges better protection for medical workers as five more doctors die of COVID-19 He said that this phenomenon proved that the public was both ignorant to the health protocols and did not care about health workers safety. Ari added that losing more health workers would create disadvantages to the countrys healthcare system. Ari said Indonesia was among the countries with the lowest number of doctors, as one doctor had to serve around 3,000 people. Losing more health workers would disrupt the healthcare services in Indonesia, both for COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients. Sonny Harry B Harmadi, the national COVID-19 task force member heading the behavioral change division, raised a similar issue, noting that Indonesia had a limited number of doctors and health workers. If we dont stop the transmission, the number of cases will continue to increase. With limited facilities, were going to face a [serious] problem, he said on Friday. That being said, the task force has embarked on an awareness program called the 3M Health Protocol, with 3M referring to menggunakan masker (mask-wearing), mencuci tangan (hand-washing) and menjaga jarak (social distancing). The program involves collaboration with the National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN). The protocols are considered to be effective at preventing person-to-person transmission of COVID-19. Indonesia has seen a continuously rising number of confirmed cases since March. As of Sunday, the country recorded 303,498 cases with 228,453 recoveries and 11,151 deaths. (jes) President Trump Parade View Photos Sonora, CA A caravan of cars and trucks traveled through Tuolumne County on Saturday afternoon, honking horns, and cheering, in support of President Donald Trump. Curious about how the idea of the parade got started, Clarke Broadcasting reached out to Randy Hanvelt, Chair of the Tuolumne County Republican Central Committee, who says it was initiated by a local resident on social media and the idea took off organically, with an estimated 500 vehicles traveling along the route. Most were flying President Trump flags, or American flags. It started at Columbia State Historic Park with the singing of the National Anthem by Ali Borja, and it then went to Jamestown, Tuolumne, Twain Harte, Soulsbyville and downtown Sonora. The CHP helped out with traffic control. It took about 35 minutes just to move all of the vehicles out of the parking lot in Columbia. Many spots along the route had people standing along the side of the road, cheering, and waiving flags. Officers with the Sonora Police Department also assisted with traffic once the parade arrived downtown. Police Chief Turu Vanderwiel says, We learned of this on social media and ultimately the organizers reached out to us and advised us of their intent. There was no indication of significant counter-protests or unsafe conditions so we just asked the organizers to discourage participants from impeding traffic or obstructing intersections. We also asked that they encourage participants to observe the states guidelines regarding outdoor demonstrations. There was a small police presence to monitor traffic and watch for unsafe activities. The parade/rally was held ahead of the November 3 election. Click on the image box to view some photos. Rameswaram: Ten fishermen were on Tuesday arrested by Sri Lankan Naval personnel when they were fishing off Neduntheevu near the island nation, officials said. The Lankan Naval personnel also allegedly damaged fishing nets and other equipment besides seizing their boat, Assistant Director of Fisheries Kolinjinathan said. The fishermen from Thangachimadam here have been taken to Kangesanthurai, the official said. On February 1, five Tamil Nadu fishermen were arrested and their boat impounded by the Sri Lankan Navy for allegedly fishing in Lankan territorial waters. Raising the fishermen's issue, the Tamil Nadu government had on February 2 sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's intervention in securing release of 25 fishermen and 119 fishing boats from Lankan custody. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 5, 2020 / Kismet Resources Corp. (the "Company") (TSXV:KSMT.P) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an amalgamation agreement with TDG Gold Corp. ("TDG") and 1266834 B.C. Ltd. ("Subco"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kismet, dated September 28, 2020 (the "Amalgamation Agreement") pursuant to which the Company proposes to acquire all of the issued and outstanding securities of TDG by way of a three-corner amalgamation (the "Transaction") as more particularly described in its news release dated July 29, 2020. Under the terms of the Amalgamation Agreement, TDG will amalgamate with Subco, and the Company will acquire all of the outstanding common shares of TDG in exchange for post-consolidation common shares of the Company (the "Resulting Issuer Shares") on the basis of one Resulting Issuer Share for every three common shares of TDG (the "Share Exchange Ratio"). Outstanding convertible securities of TDG will be exchanged for convertible securities of the Company, with the number of Resulting Issuer Shares issuable and the exercise price of such convertible securities to be adjusted based on the Share Exchange Ratio. The deemed price of the Transaction is $0.30. It is anticipated that the Company will change its name to TDG Gold Corp. upon the completion of the Transaction (the "Resulting Issuer"). The name of the amalgamated entity will be either "TDG Assets BC Corp." or "TDG BC Assets Corp.," and it will continue to subsist under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). Prior to or concurrently with completion of the Transaction, TDG intends to complete a non-brokered private placement equity financing to raise gross proceeds of a minimum of $4,000,000 and a maximum of up to $5,000,000 through the issuance, on a private placement basis, of up to 6,666,666 non-flow through units (each, a "Non-Flow Through Unit") at a price of $0.30 per Non-Flow Through Unit and up to 7,058,823 flow-through units (each, a "Flow Through Unit") at a price of $0.425 per Flow Through Unit (the "Concurrent Financing"). Each Non-Flow Through Unit will consist of common shares and common share purchase warrants of TDG that, when exchanged for securities of the Company, shall comprise one Resulting Issuer Share and one-half of one Resulting Issuer Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Resulting Issuer Warrant"). Each Flow Through Unit will consist of common shares and common share purchase warrants of TDG that, when exchanged for securities of the Company, shall comprise one Resulting Issuer Share, that will qualify as a "flow-through share" under the Income Tax Act and one-half of one Resulting Issuer Warrant. Each whole Resulting Issuer Warrant will be exercisable by the holder thereof to acquire one Resulting Issuer Share at an exercise price of $0.45 for a period of three years from issuance. TDG currently has 75,734,904 common shares issued and outstanding and has no options, warrants or other classes of securities outstanding. The completion of the Amalgamation is subject to certain conditions precedent, including, but not limited to, the following: the shareholders of TDG shall have duly approved the Transaction and the Amalgamation Agreement at TDG's Special Shareholder Meeting, to be held on October 21, 2020; the Company shall have completed a 2:1 share consolidation (the " Consolidation "); "); the name of the Company shall have been changed to " TDG Gold Corp. ," or such other name as is agreed to by the Company and TDG (the " Name Change "); ," or such other name as is agreed to by the Company and TDG (the " "); the acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange (" TSXV ") of the Transaction as Kismet's Qualifying Transaction (as such term is defined in Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies of the TSXV Corporate Finance Manual); ") of the Transaction as Kismet's Qualifying Transaction (as such term is defined in Policy 2.4 - of the TSXV Corporate Finance Manual); TDG shall have completed of the Concurrent Financing; receipt by TDG of a written resignation effective as at the time of the closing of the Transaction from each of the current directors and officers of the Company who will not be serving as directors or officers of the Resulting Issuer; the Company shall have cash of at least $25,000 net of all liabilities, including payables accrued in connection with the completion of the Transaction; TDG shall have completed the acquisition of the former producing Baker and Shasta mines from Talisker Resources Ltd., as more particularly described in the Company's news release dated July 29, 2020; and dissenting shareholders of TDG shall not have validly exercised dissent rights in respect of more than 5% of the outstanding common shares of TDG. The Company is a Capital Pool Company and intends for the Transaction to constitute its Qualifying Transaction, as such terms are defined in the policies of the TSXV. In connection with the Company's previous announcement of entry into a letter of intent in connection with the Transaction, trading in the Kismet Shares was halted pursuant to the policies of the TSXV. Trading will remain halted until, among other things, Kismet completes certain regulatory filings in connection with the Qualifying Transaction with the TSXV and the TSXV has completed certain matters it considers necessary or advisable. It is anticipated that the Resulting Issuer will qualify as a Tier 2 Mining Issuer pursuant to the requirements of the TSXV. The Company intends to issue a subsequent press release in accordance with the policies of the TSXV providing further details in respect of the Transaction, including information relating to the descriptions of the proposed directors and Insiders (as such term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) of the Resulting Issuer, as well as a summary of TDG Gold's financial information. About the Company The Company is a capital pool company ("CPC") within the meaning of the policies of the TSX-V that has not commenced commercial operations and has no assets other than cash. The current directors and officers of the Company are: Evandra Nakano (CEO, CFO, Corporate Secretary and Director), Shervin Teymouri (Director) and David Hladky (Director). Except as specifically contemplated in the CPC policies of the TSX-V, until the completion of its "Qualifying Transaction" (as defined therein), the Company will not carry on business, other than the identification and evaluation of companies, business or assets with a view to completing a proposed "Qualifying Transaction". For more information please contact the Company at 604-220-4691 or email: info@kismetresources.com. On Behalf of the Board of Directors of Kismet Resources Corp. Evandra Nakano Director Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV acceptance and if applicable pursuant to TSXV Requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all. Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information release or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative. The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction. Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, including statements relating to the Transaction and certain terms and conditions thereof, the ability of the parties to complete the Transaction, the Consolidation, the Exchange Ratio, the Name Change, the Resulting Issuer's ability to qualify as a Tier 2 Mining issuer, shareholder, director and regulatory approvals, completion of the Concurrent Financing, future press releases and disclosure, and other statements that are not historical facts. Wherever possible, words such as "may," "will," "should," "could," "expect," "plan," "intend," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict" or "potential" or the negative or other variations of these words, or similar words or phrases, have been used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management as at the date hereof. Forward-looking statements involve significant risk, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to geological risks, risks associated with the effects of COVID-19, the financial markets generally, the results of the due diligence investigations to be conducted in connection with the Transaction, the ability of the Company to complete the Transaction or obtain requisite TSX-V acceptance and, if applicable, shareholder approvals. As a result, the Company cannot guarantee that the Transaction will be completed on the terms described herein or at all. These factors should be considered carefully and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law. SOURCE: Kismet Resources Corp. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/609161/Kismet-Enters-into-Amalgamation-Agreement Kyiv and Brussels within the framework of the Ukraine-EU summit, which will be held in Brussels on October 6, will sign three agreements worth EUR 60 million, such an announcement was made by a high-ranking European official on the eve of the summit. In particular, he said, an agreement will be signed regarding EU support for the sustainability of the region in the amount of EUR 30 million, an agreement in the field of civil society opportunities in Ukraine for EUR 20 million and an agreement within the framework of a climate package aimed at developing a sustainable economy in the amount of EUR 10 million. "These are agreements that we will sign, and we want to work closer with Ukraine on many other things," the official added. He also announced that during the summit, the parties will discuss three issues: the coronavirus pandemic, the implementation of the Association Agreement and the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area and the reform process, the situation in the east with the implementation of the Minsk agreements. "In the center is the discussion of reforms. In this respect, Ukraine has made significant progress, but it is important that this continues, regardless of internal challenges," the European official stressed. Also, the leaders will discuss the macroeconomic stability of Ukraine, the implementation of international obligations and the need for independence of the NBU. "We expect the leaders to reaffirm their commitment to strengthen Ukraine's political association and economic integration based on the current agreement," he added. The following are arrests the Danbury Police Department reported to have made last week: A 27-year-old William Street man was charged with driving under the influence and failure to drive upon right. A 44-year-old Sierra Way man was charged with third-degree assault, disorderly conduct and risk or injury/impairing the morals of a child. An 18-year-old homeless man was charged with second- and third-degree strangulation, third-degree assault, breach of peace and third-degree criminal mischief. A 43-year-old Mountainville Avenue woman was charged with first-degree criminal mischief, disorderly conduct and third-degree assault. A 67-year-old Sheridan Street woman was charged with operating an unregistered motor vehicle, failure to meet minimum insurance coverage requirements, reckless driving, evading responsibility, failure to drive in proper lane and stop sign violation. Sept. 28 A 54-year-old North Street man was charged with driving under the influence. A 24-year-old man from Bethel was charged with evading responsibility, failure to drive upon right, and using a handheld device while driving. A 37-year-old Mallory Street man was charged with evading responsibility and breach of peace. A 28-year-old homeless man was charged with possession of drugs and paraphernalia near a school and violation of probation/conditional discharge. Sept. 29 A 51-year-old woman from Hartford was charged with assaulting a public safety officer or emergency medical personnel. Sept. 30 A 33-year-old man from Poughkeepsie, N.Y., was charged with operating an unregistered motor vehicle, failure to carry certificate of registration/insurance ID, evading responsibility, breach of peace, failure to drive in proper lane and threatening. A 32-year-old Liberty Street man was charged with risk of injury to child, disorderly conduct and threatening. Oct. 1 A 60-year-old Rowan Street man was charged with second-degree failure to appear and failure to respond to an infraction. A 20-year-old homeless man was charged with first-degree failure to appear. Oct. 2 A 50-year-old Triangle Terrace man was charged with stop sign violation and improper use of marker, license or registration. An 18-year-old Scuppo Road man was charged with violation of a protective order. A 40-year-old man from Bethel was charged with failure to meet minimum insurance coverage requirements and violation of license classification. A 35-year-old man from Hackettstown, N.J., was charged with failure to comply with fingerprint requests, interfering with an officer, assaulting a public safety officer or emergency medical personnel and breach of peace. Oct. 3 A 22-year-old High Street man was charged with interfering with an officer. A 61-year-old man from Middlebury was charged with throwing objects at a motor vehicle and driving a motor vehicle with the intent to harass or intimidate. A 47-year-old Grandview Avenue man was charged with third-degree criminal mischief, disorderly conduct and interfering with an emergency call. With the AIIMS' report ruling out murder in actor Sushant Singh Rajput's death, the Shiv Sena on Monday said politicians and news channels which "defamed" Mumbai Police in connection with the case should apologise to Maharashtra. In an editorial of its mouthpiece Saamana, the Shiv Sena said truth finally prevailed in the actor's death case, and alleged that it was a conspiracy to malign Maharashtra's image using the episode. It also said the Maharashtra government should file a defamation case against those who were part of the conspiracy. The medical board of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) last week ruled out murder in Rajput's death, and termed it "a case of hanging and death by suicide". Referring to it, the Sena publication said, "Are the blind devotees going to reject the report of AIIMS in connection with Sushant's death? It has been 110 days since Sushant's unfortunate death." "The politicians and news channels which bark like dogs, who defamed the Mumbai Police and questioned its probe, must apologise to Maharashtra now," the editorial said. Without naming anyone or any party, it said those who remained tight-lipped in connection with the alleged gang-rape incident in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras should not test the manliness of Maharashtra. The Mumbai Police observed ethics and maintained secrecy during its probe to see one is not defamed after Rajput's death, but the CBI dug out the actors drugs episode within 24 hours of its investigation, it said. It also accused Nitish Kumar and other Bihar politicians of raising the issue since they allegedly lacked campaign issues for the upcoming Assembly polls there. Those who had pitched for probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into Rajput's death case have not questioned the central agency what it has been doing over the past 40 to 50 days, the Marathi publication said. It also asked where the actress who made capital out of Rajput's death and likened Mumbai to Pakistan is hiding now -- an apparent reference to film star Kangana Ranaut. "The actress did not shed two tears even using glycerine after a young woman was allegedly raped and killed in Hathras and her body was cremated in the dead of the night by police there," the editorial said. If you were holding out hope that your local Regal theater would reopen soon, well, time to pick another thing to be hopeful about. Regal Cinemas has decided to suspend operations all U.S. theaters starting Oct. 8 due to an increasingly challenging theatrical landscape and sustained key market closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This is not a decision we made lightly, and we did everything in our power to support a safe and sustainable reopening in the U.S.," Mooky Greidinger, CEO of Regal parent company Cineworld, said in a statement. The company called the suspension of operations at its 536 U.S. locations temporary. Regal had reopened theaters in Albany, Bend, Salem and Eugene in August. Locations in the Portland area remained closed. Other theater chains, including AMC and Cinemark, have reopened with safety precautions in Oregon, but theaters in the Portland-area remain closed due to state COVID-19 guidelines. In the Portland area, however, you can access big screen viewing at bars and restaurants and some drive-in theaters. -- Lizzy Acker 503-221-8052, lacker@oregonian.com, @lizzzyacker NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of its mission to materially and measurably improve the health of all New Yorkers, Empire BlueCross BlueShield, in partnership with Crain's New York Business, custom division, is pleased to launch the 2020 Empire Whole Health Heroes Awards program. Empire and Crain's created this program to honor and celebrate individuals whose commitment, kindness and exceptional leadership have helped to improve the health, wellness and safety of the city during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. "We are the largest health insurer in New York, and this position offers us the great privilege to improve the health and the lives of the four million people who are our members, and the opportunity to impact many more through our work in the community. As part of this, we have heard, and have been humbled by, the countless stories of hope, resilience and determination as New Yorkers came together to tackle this pandemic," said Alan Murray, president & CEO of Empire BlueCross BlueShield. "The Empire Whole Health Heroes Awards program was born out of our desire to recognize the people we've encountered who are working tirelessly to help our city recover and rebuild as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve." "We are thrilled to be Empire BlueCross BlueShield's media partner in their inaugural launch of the 2020 Empire Whole Health Heroes Awards, as they seek to recognize leaders across industries who responded to the COVID-19 outbreak with remarkable compassion and true leadership going above and beyond to keep New York communities healthy and safe," said Fred Gabriel, Publisher/Executive Editor of Crain's New York Business. Fifty (50) honorees will be recognized in the following categories: Health Care Whole Health Heroes: Leaders in health care delivery or leaders in professional services/technologies supporting health care sector (nurses, doctors, EMTs, etc.) Leaders in health care delivery or leaders in professional services/technologies supporting health care sector (nurses, doctors, EMTs, etc.) Business Whole Health Heroes : Leaders in the private sector (CEOs, business owners/executives, HR directors, etc.) : Leaders in the private sector (CEOs, business owners/executives, HR directors, etc.) Essential Whole Health Heroes: Leaders in essential services (infrastructure, transportation, emergency services (such as police, fire), warehouse and delivery, critical manufacturing, food and agriculture, government and community-based services (such as child care) Leaders in essential services (infrastructure, transportation, emergency services (such as police, fire), warehouse and delivery, critical manufacturing, food and agriculture, government and community-based services (such as child care) Whole Health Insurance Brokers: Leaders in sales, administrative and customer support Submit nominations beginning October 5, 2020 through November 6, 2020 at midnight EST, at crainsnewyork.com. The online entry point (essay) is at crainsnewyork.com/wholehealth. The Crain's New York Business newsroom will not participate in the judging or selection of the honorees. Crain's New York Business will feature honorees in print and online in a special section scheduled for January 18 and honored at a virtual celebratory event on January 15, 2021. About Empire BlueCross BlueShield in New York Serving New Yorkers for 80 years, Empire BlueCross BlueShield (Empire) is on a mission to materially and measurably improve the health of New Yorkers. Empire is the largest health insurer in New York supporting more than four million members and more than 38,000 business, union and small employers in New York. Empire is the trade name of Empire HealthChoice Assurance, Inc., and Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield HMO is the trade name of Empire 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 Empire is available at www.empireblue.com. Also, follow us on Twitter at @empirebcbs. About Crain's New York Business For almost 30 years, Crain's New York Business has been the award-winning news source for New York's business leaders, telling the story of the New York economy, while serving as a voice and advocate for the city's business community. Reporting through the prism of business, Crain's helps its readers stay on top of the inner workings of New York's economic and political ecosystem, uncover new business opportunities and connect with the broader New York business community. SOURCE Crain's New York Business Related Links http://crainsnewyork.com/ Jessie Anthony wrote, directed and produced Brother, I Cry, which had its world premier at this years virtual Vancouver International Film Fest, Sept. 24 Oct. 7. VIFF awarded Anthony with the festivals B.C. Emerging Filmmaker Award. The following interview has been edited for brevity and to avoid spoilers. Zoe Ducklow: How did you get into filmmaking? Jessie Anthony: I always knew I wanted to be a storyteller since I was young. I was always dramatic, always pretending something. When I looked for summer jobs, they never had jobs in theatre. They were jobs at a gas station or something like that. So I had people in my community wrote proposals and wed put theatre camps together, or March break camp. I went to school for performing arts [and later was] accepted to Vancouver Film Schools acting program. The whole time, I saw a need for more Indigenous voices in filmmaking. Then I was accepted to Capilanos Indigenous Filmmaking program. And you won the B.C. Emerging Filmmaker Award from VIFF with your first feature. Im still so over the moon on that one. I called my mom when I found out and cried, and said, I just remember being a little rez girl saying, I wanna make movies. I wanna be in movies. Im gonna do this and Im gonna do that. And then to be recognized for it, it does something to you. Comments Im getting from home too, people saying, you always said you were going to do this! So its quite an honour. How did the story of Brother, I Cry come to you? I had a dream where my brother had a overdose and his spirit came to me and told me, Im scared, I dont know where I am, I need you to find me. In my dream I went searching, and in reality, I know where all these drug house were because Ive either dropped him off or picked him up there. So I was travelling through my dream trying to find him. When I woke up I had this overwhelming feeling that this was going to be my reality, and that I needed to do something about it. That became my final short film [for the Capilano graduation project]. Nothing I do is going to save him, he needs to want to do it himself. But maybe if I show him my fears, it might make a difference. Or it might make a difference to someone else. Have you talked to your brother about the film? Yes. He very much knows my thoughts. Weve worked very hard to be where we are in our relationship with his addiction. Ive called him and read a scene to him and said, is this how it works? I know definitely called him and said, how do I steal a car? And hes like, this is how youd steal a car, you know. But he also knows that the story is a collection of people. Hes the inspiration, and theres a lot of influence there, but I also wrote from my experience dating someone who was addicted to crack cocaine. I wrote based on things that have happened all around me. All those characters have pieces of my personal trauma. Brother, I Cry tells the story of Indigenous siblings, Jon and Ava, struggling with the effects of inter-generational trauma in their own ways while staying spiritually connected. Youve mentioned before that theres a need for more positive, empowering Indigenous stories to be told, but also that you wanted to tell this story because its how it is on your rez when you go home. I was nervous that people would take it the wrong way, but at the same time, its truth and Im coming at this from a place of love. I want people to have a conversation. I want people to know theyre not alone. I want families to know that that frustration, I feel it too. And thats not a race thing, thats not just an Indigenous thing, thats a universal thing. And I get it, theres a need for those empowering stories. There is so much beauty and so much power in our stories. So you do have, as an artist, space to tell that truth. But I dont know, I just felt I needed to tell that story. And it is being told from an Indigenous perspective, so I think its been told with a lot of respect. Jon does this thing where he lights a cigarette from the toaster. It seems so much harder than just using a lighter. Well thats just it, hes always loosing his lighter. Its very common in my family, people smoke, and a lot of times youre not allowed to smoke in the house. Even if they might find the lighter or go get one, that was just the easiest thing to do. With [Jon], its a small subtle thing that he doesnt listen, he doesnt even listen to a simple house rule. It was striking how each character clearly had their own backstory, their own way of responding to pain, and to Jons addiction. I hope I communicated inter-generational trauma without being like, This is inter-generational trauma! This is residential schools! I didnt want to do that, I wanted to bring people in and use the camera. I tried to put the camera like a fly on the wall to get glimpse of that cycle, and be invasive, and move with the family because thats what the trauma does. Like theres that one scene in the kitchen where youre in the corner, were in the corner watching, and you see the living room, the front door, the rest of the kitchen. Those three different spaces and the family is moving through them, and its like, that literally is how trauma is. Its sitting in the corner watching us trying to figure it out. RELATED: Monkey Beach supernatural film adaptation premiers at VIFF Without giving away the ending, this film really doesnt give viewers any way out, it doesnt make us comfortable. Yeah, this is my fear. The movie is my fear for my brother. And Ive gotten texts from people, days after they watched saying, Were still cracking ourselves open. Thank you, because youve allowed me to grieve for our people. Grief that she didnt even know that was in here that started to move. Some of the comments Ive been getting and the personal stories, Im so grateful people have found that connection for themselves. It takes a certain kind of bravery to make a film like this about issues that are still live for you. Like, this isnt something that resolved and youve had time to reflect on. No. Hes still very much a functioning addict. Thats another thing, I didnt want to show a typical addict, I wanted to show a functioning two functioning addicts like Leah, shes on methadone. Lets talk about that. Oh youre pregnant and on methadone? Thats something weve had to go through. And the shame and embarrassment that comes with that. Lets get rid of those stigmas first. I dont know the answers. I dont know any of the answers. All I know is I needed to bring up a conversation and say I love my brother and I dont want him to die but this is the reality. Do you have something to add to this story or something else we should report on? Email: zoe.ducklow@blackpress.ca Read more about: The on Monday said if a COVID-19 patient dies in a state or civic-run hospital due to culpable negligence on part of the medical facility, then his/her family members would be entitled for compensation. A division bench of Chief Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice N J Jamadar said the state government has a duty and responsibility towards its citizens. The bench was hearing a public interest litigation filed by BJP leader Ashish Shelar, raising concerns over the manner in which run by government and civic bodies across Maharashtra were managing and disposing bodies of COVID-19 patients. Shelar had in July filed an affidavit, pointing out 11 cases across the state where COVID-19 patients died in due to alleged negligence on part of hospital authorities. The bench on Monday directed the Maharashtra government to get details on these 11 cases from the concerned and file its affidavit. The court posted the plea for further hearing on November 23. "The instances, if true, would suggest culpable negligence on part of those responsible for running the hospitals. The unfortunate victim's family members would be entitled to compensation," the court said in its order. The bench also said even if the hospital concerned is run by a civic body, nothing prevents the state government from seeking details. "Dont rely on the civic body. The state government has an overriding duty and responsibility. If someone dies in a train accident, then the victims family members are given compensation. "Similarly, in these cases (deaths of COVID-19 patients due to negligence) too, the government should give compensation, Chief Justice Datta said. The HC said in addition to guidelines prescribed by the Union government on March 15 on disposal and management of bodies of COVID-19 patients, the Maharashtra government shall also follow nine guidelines laid down by the Calcutta High Court last month. The Calcutta HC had said bodies of COVID-19 patients where post-mortem is not required shall be handed over to relatives for completion of last rites following safety precautions. In case there is nobody to claim a body, then it should be cremated or buried with dignity at the state governments expense, the Calcutta HC said. It had also said that after completion of hospital formalities, a body should be secured in a body bag, the face-end of which should be preferably transparent and its exterior should be sanitised to minimise the risk of people carrying it getting infected. The guidelines issued by the Calcutta HC further said that at the time of the last rites, religious rituals such as reading from religious scripts, sprinkling holy water, offering grains and so on, that do not require touching of the body, should be allowed. (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.) More than four million patients on NHS hospital waiting lists will be reassessed under a national review launched amid fears that health chiefs have prioritised coronavirus cases over the needs of all others including advanced cancer cases. NHS trusts will decide which cases should be seen within a month, two months, or left to anguish on their own at least three months, according to plans drawn up following warnings that too many patients have been left 'in limbo' after their treatment was put on hold. While the programme is meant to speed up treatment for those in most dire need, millions assigned the lowest priority can expect to wait months, and in some cases years. Patients will also be given the option to say they want to defer treatment for up to six months if they do not want to go to hospital during the coronavirus crisis as officials had instructed until very recently. The guidance states that the risk of delaying treatment should be weighed against the patient's health risks should they contract Covid-19, the need to self-isolate before surgey, and their reduced immunity afterwards, the Daily Telegraph reports. Hospital staff are also being warned that patients, many of whom have already suffered long delays due to lockdowns, 'may become distressed or angry' when contacted. It comes as MPs warned that failure to tackle a rising backlog could see tens of thousands of avoidable deaths this year, including up to 35,000 extra cancer deaths. More than four million patients on NHS hospital waiting lists will be reassessed under a national review launched amid fears that health chiefs have prioritised coronavirus cases over the needs of all others including advanced cancer cases (stock) NHS trusts will decide which cases should be seen within a month, two months, or left to anguish on their own at least three months, according to plans drawn up following warnings that too many patients have been left 'in limbo' after their treatment was put on hold The Commons health committee heard that too many patients whose care had been delayed had been left 'in the lurch' without contact from hospitals as a direct result of official policy to prioritise care for coronavirus patients. Since the national lockdown imposed in March, the number of people forced to wait over a year for treatment has risen more than 50-fold, with 83, 203 waits in July compared with 1,613 in February. However, nearly 75,000 people could die from non-Covid cases as a result of lockdown, devastating official figures buried in a 188-page document state. The NHS guidance states: 'The project is about making the best mutually agreed decisions with patients and is not an exercise to reduce numbers on waiting lists.' Those who decide to defer treatment would remain included in official statistics, it says. Every patient waiting for planned treatment which involves hospital admission should be contacted before the review ends on October 23, for checks to ensure those in most urgent need are identified. Though coronavirus cases are rising, patients suffering from other ailments including advanced cancer have been left 'in limbo' after their treatment was put on hold Though there are still deaths from coronavirus, official projections estimate that there could 75,000 non-Covid deaths as a direct result of the Government's lockdown policy Hospitals which have already contacted patients on their waiting lists to review their condition have been told they do not have to repeat the exercise if their information is up-to-date. Trusts will later be asked to carry out a similar process for millions more patients waiting for outpatients appointments. An NHS spokesman said: 'The number of operations and procedures taking place has more than doubled since April, and to ensure that those with the most urgent needs are prioritised, specialists and their teams will be making contact with all those currently waiting for a non-urgent operation to discuss and assess their condition and preferences.' Professor Neil Mortensen, President of Royal College of Surgeons of England, said the NHS review would help to ensure the most urgent cases are spotted. He told the Telegraph: 'Surgeons and other clinicians across the NHS need to keep in touch with their patients to make sure they are not deteriorating while they wait for hospital treatment. If their needs become more urgent, they will be a priority for an early date for treatment.' Care home residents and staff will be first to get a Covid-19 vaccine ahead of NHS staff and all over-80s Care home residents and staff will be the first to get a Covid-19 vaccine when one is approved, according to fresh government advice. Everyone over the age of 80 and NHS staff will be second in line, updated guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation states. The body, which consists of 20 top scientists, advises ministers on all vaccines. It admitted its guidance for any UK Covid-19 vaccination scheme is likely to change in the future. Matt Hancock previously pledged that Britons with underlying conditions would be near the front of the queue for any jab. But millions living with heart disease or other ailments that raise their risk of dying of Covid-19 won't be vaccinated until everyone over the age of 65 is inoculated, according to the new guidance. WHO WILL GET A COVID-19 JAB FIRST? Under the proposed ranking by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, the vaccines will be rolled out in the following order: older adults' resident in a care home and care home workers all those 80 years of age and over and health and social care workers all those 75 years of age and over all those 70 years of age and over all those 65 years of age and over high-risk adults under 65 years of age with underlying health woes moderate-risk adults under 65 years of age with underlying health woes all those 60 years of age and over all those 55 years of age and over all those 50 years of age and over rest of the population (priority to be determined) Advertisement Liam O'Toole, chief executive of charity Versus Arthritis, added: 'It is imperative that any such review be open, transparent, and that patients and clinicians are fully involved in any decisions to their treatment that are made.' It comes as an official document presented to the Government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) warned that there could be 75,000 non-Covid deaths as a result of lockdown. The startling research reveals that 16,000 people died as a result of the chaos in hospitals and care homes in March and April alone. It estimates a further 26,000 will lose their lives within a year if people continue to stay away from A&E and the problems in social care persist. And an additional 31,900 could die over the next five years as a result of missed cancer diagnoses, cancelled operations and the health impacts of a recession. The estimates, drawn up by civil servants at the Department of Health, the Office for National Statistics and the Home Office, were presented to SAGE at a meeting on July 15. The documents stressed that had nothing been done to stop the spread of the virus in March, 400,000 people could have died of Covid. And if the NHS had been overrun, this figure might have even soared to 1.4million. But they acknowledged the restrictions had significant unintended consequences. The figures are bound to lead critics to ask why neither Health Secretary Matt Hancock or Home Secretary Priti Patel, whose officials compiled the report, has volunteered the information. Both have spoken of the number of people who may die from Covid without stringent restrictions. But they have been less forthcoming about the risk that the measures themselves could lead to many non-Covid deaths, despite being made aware of the danger more than two months ago. Many people took the 'stay at home' message to heart in the early days of the crisis, with hospital admissions plummeting as a result. But despite fears in March that the NHS would be overwhelmed by a Covid surge, most hospitals were never overrun, and the emergency Nightingale hospitals set up in the spring remained empty. The document said: 'We estimate changes to emergency care may account for 6,000 existing excess deaths in March and April 2020. If emergency care in hospitals continues to be low for a full 12 months, this could result in an additional 10,000 excess deaths.' It added: 'We estimate there were approximately 10,000 non-Covid-19 excess deaths of care home residents in March and April 2020... there could be an additional 16,000 non-Covid-19 excess deaths over 12 months in care home residents.' In the longer term, the officials estimate a 12,500 deaths over five years because of cancelled operations. The impact on GP services could result in 1,400 deaths over five years from missed cancer diagnoses alone. The true impact will be much higher, they said, but they had been unable to model the impact on any disease area other than cancer. The officials said lockdown will also lead to some reductions in mortality. Better air quality, fewer road accidents and less childhood disease will reduce overall deaths by roughly 1,000 over a year, they calculated. And a further 4,000 lives will be saved thanks to 'healthier lifestyles in the short-term'. They estimated that 67,000 people will lose their lives directly from Covid across the UK by next March, although that figure was calculated before infections started rising again this month. Added to the non-Covid deaths, the total death toll from the pandemic will reach 101,000 across the UK by next March, rising to nearly 150,000 in five years. Finally, they warned of the devastation of a long-term economic downturn could lead to 18,000 excess deaths over two to five years. Representative Image A local BJP leader in West Bengal was shot dead on Sunday by two bike-borne assailants near Titagarh in North 24 Parganas district, police said. The duo opened fire at Manish Sukla, a local councillor, on B T Road in the evening, following which he was taken to a private hospital, where he was declared brought dead, they said. The BJP leadership blamed the Trinamool Congress for the incident, but the ruling party has rubbished the accusation. "It is shameful that the TMC has now started politics of annihilation of political opponents. We don't have any faith in local police as this happened in front of the police station. We want a CBI inquiry," BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said. BJP MP Arjun Singh also held the TMC responsible for Shukla's "killing" and claimed that shots were fired at him from a carbine. Shukla, who switched over to the saffron party last year, was considered to be close to Singh. Senior TMC leader Nirmal Ghosh said the incident was a result of infighting within the BJP and allegations against his party were baseless. A huge police contingent was rushed to the spot after Shukla was gunned down around 9.30 pm. "We have started an investigation and will look at all possible angles," a senior police officer said. The BJP has called a 12-hour bandh in Barrackpore area on Monday in protest against the incident. Meanwhile, Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed concern over the law and order situation in the state and summoned the Additional Chief Secretary, Home, and the DGP on Monday morning. "ACS Home @MamataOfficial and DGP @WBPolice have been summoned at 10 am tomorrow in the wake of worsening law and order situation leading to the dastardly killing of Manish Shukla, Councillor, Titagarh Municipality in political party office," Dhankhar said in a tweet. Early this week, law and government teacher Daniel Bachman was preparing his class to watch the first presidential debate between President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden. Bachman gave his students at Massapequa High School in New York an assignment for the night: Outline the candidates positions on a policy issue, focusing on the substance of their arguments and the evidence they used for support. But that night, as Trump continually interrupted Biden and moderator Chris Wallace, pitching both candidates into a 90-minute shouting match, students started sending Bachman a stream of messages via the Remind app. They werent sure how to complete the homework. There wasnt enough substance in the chaos unfolding on screen for them to write anything coherent. We wound up canceling the assignment, Bachman said in an interview the next day. We couldnt do it. Its not just the debates . Covering this norm-breaking election has introduced all sorts of new challenges for social studies and civics teachers, who are already trying to navigate a polarized political climate. Trump has insisted that the election is rigged against him, making repeated, unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud. He has also refused to commit to accepting the results if he loses. Some teachers see this as a learning opportunity, an avenue for explaining what the U.S. Constitution says about election procedures and presidential succession. But they also worry that reassuring students about election security, and emphasizing the importance of a peaceful transition of power in a democracy, could be seen as partisanespecially in virtual classrooms, where teachers say its harder to engage kids and build relationships . All the while, the country is still in the midst of a pandemic that has killed more than 200,000 people in the United States, disproportionately affecting people of color. Uprisings have spread across states, as demonstrators protest police brutality against Black people. About the Citizen Z Project U.S. public education is rooted in the belief by early American leaders that the most important knowledge to impart to young people is what it means to be a citizen. If America is experiencing a civic crisis, as many say it is, schools may well be failing at that job. This article is part of an ongoing effort by Education Week to understand the role of education in preparing the next generation of citizens. See other stories in the Citizen Z series here . Do you have a great idea for teaching students about civics? Share it with us. The coronavirus has also directly affected the campaign: On Friday, Trump and First Lady Melania Trump announced that they had tested positive, throwing an already chaotic race into further uncertainty as questions swirled about the presidents health. For students, it can feel like the nation is on the verge of a crisis. Isabel Morales, an 8th grade U.S. history teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District, said that her class asked whether a second Civil War could happen if people were unhappy with the outcome of the election. Its really hard to teach this at this moment. I tell them that I dont want to lie to them. But I also dont want to make them extremely scared and depressed, Morales said. Disengaging, experts agree, is not the answer. The rancorous tone of discourse today, it seems scary to wade into. It can be easy to pull away, said Nicole Mirra, an assistant professor of urban teacher education at Rutgers University, who studies youth civic engagement. But teachers cant afford to, she said. This is a moment where our students are confused, or angry, or just curious. Answering What Ifs Students ask a lot of hypothetical questions, said Allison Cohen, an AP government teacher at Langley High School in McLean, Va., and a member of the board of Street Law, a nonprofit that promotes law and civics education. Sometimes it comes from a place of nervousness and concern, but sometimes it just comes from a place of, what is going on? So when Cohen awoke on Friday to the news that the president had tested positive for coronavirus, she started brushing up on her knowledge of the 25th Amendment, which outlines how to transfer power when the president is incapacitated, and the Presidential Succession Act of 1947. Thats the state of teaching government right now, Cohen said. You have a plan, and you wake up that morning prepared to have the plan fly out the window. This is far from the only hypothetical that Cohen has had to prepare to explain. Its possible that the American public wont know the outcome of the presidential contest the night of the election, experts say . In some states that have expanded their mail-in and absentee voting, ballots cant be processed before Election Day, meaning that states may well be tallying votes long past the next morning. If the race is close, one candidate might appear to have the lead that night, only to lose it once more mail-in votes are counted. Trump has repeatedly claimed, without evidence , that vote-by-mail is rife with fraud and that the election is rigged against him. (Studies have shown that there is not widespread voter fraud in the U.S. ) Experts have advised the media not to call an early winner , in part to avoid fanning the flames of conspiracy theories that the election is being stolen if mail-in ballots determine the results. The controversy and uncertainty leave students with a lot of what ifs, teachers say: Is it possible that we might not know the results for weeks, or months? What happens if both candidates declare themselves the winner? These arent the kinds of questions that teachers normally answer about the election process, but there are ways to address them. First, it might be reassuring for students to know that there is some historical precedent for this situation, said Cathy Ruffing, the senior director of professional development programs and curriculum at Street Law. Teachers can talk about the 2000 presidential election between George W. Bush and Al Gore, she said, and explain why it went to a recount. They could also point to some states, like California, that have long had large numbers of mail-in ballots and have historically taken longer to tally election results, said Darcy Richie, the senior director of program and impact at Generation Citizen, an action civics education organization. Students can see that the process still works in these states, she added. The observable perception is that mail-in ballots are new, or that its something that were trying this election, said Richie. Address that with a factmail-in ballots have existed as long as voting has existed. Discussing why some are spreading misinformation about mail-in voting can open the door to conversations about voter suppression, Richie said. Many students are concerned about issues of equity in voting laws. The fact that a lot of these laws disproportionately affect communities of color is concerning to students, said Cohen. She has introduced her students to the four pillars of free and fair mail-in voting, a list of recommendations for states developed by Mark Elias , an expert in election law and the general counsel to Hillary Clintons presidential campaign in 2016. Subject claims that the election is rigged to rigorous scrutiny, said Mirra: What sources are people on either side drawing on to make these arguments, how can we evaluate these sources, and then what do you think? Before the election, teachers can also explain what each step of a transition of power looks like, as outlined in the Constitution, Richie said. Cohen starts her class every year with a close study of the Constitution, but this fall, shes emphasized some sections that she hasnt in the past. Shes done a deep dive into the rules in the document about elections: which entities are responsible for running them, how the electoral college works, the timeline of when electors cast their ballots. With younger students, teachers can talk about how the peaceful transfer of power is a hallmark of a free democracy, said Mirra. This is not a conversation about purely procedure, or esoteric rules. This is a conversation about values, she said. Why is this important for how weve chosen to build a system of government? Heightened Emotions Even with a thorough understanding of election procedure, teachers still might find themselves facing unknowns in the weeks after Nov. 3. Trump has refused to say whether he will accept the results of the election. The social studies teacher in me wants to say, We just have to trust the system. We have a Constitution, we have systems that ensure the peaceful transition of power, said Amanda E. Vickery, an assistant professor of social studies education and race in education at the University of North Texas. But at the same time, as a Black woman, as a scholar who studies race and systems of power, I know that the system doesnt work for people who look like me. You offer reassurances where [you] can, but you also have to be honest with students. We dont know how this is going to work out. Yes, the outcome of the 2000 election wasnt decided on that Tuesday night, either. But now, Vickery said, the United States is in a unique context: In the middle of a pandemic that has killed 200,000 people in this country, and amid ongoing marches and demonstrations protesting police brutality toward Black people. Unorganized, armed militias, some with white supremacist ideologies, have been seen at many of these protests over the summer . In August, Kyle Rittenhouse, a white 17-year-old who showed up armed to the unrest in Kenosha, Wis., was charged with shooting three people, two of whom died. Still, in Tuesdays debate, Trump refused to condemn white supremacist and militia groups. In fact, he went further and addressed the Proud Boys, a right-wing extremist group, telling them to, stand back and stand by. [Students] fears are rooted in substance, and what theyre actually seeing play out. They are seeing unrest, said Morales, the Los Angeles teacher. She tries to acknowledge her students anxiety and focus on what they can doshowing examples of how other young people, or undocumented people, have participated in democracy without being able to vote. Shes also thought about what the day after the election might look like in her class. Most of her 8th graders, who are all students of color, dont want Trump to win, she said. If he does, its going to be a very difficult day for my students. Fraught Conversations Even if kids arent fearful about a particular outcome of the election, the current political climate has made talking about national politics fraught. Teaching the election in the past has always been a joyful thing. I always looked forward to it, said Bachman, the New York teacher. I just find in a more hyper-partisan world that now its become something where Im more worried about hurt feelings, or somebody getting the wrong takeaway. Students are more resistant to talking about hot-button issues, he said. Bachman, who has some students in person and others on a simultaneous livestream, also worries about parents walking by their teenagers Zoom screen and hearing a snippet of classroom discussion out of context. He never intends to impose his political beliefs on students, and he doesnt want any family to get that impression. Bachman thinks his students, too, are likely being more careful. Its not the same as where were sitting in a classroom and every kid feels comfortable to say what they want to say, Bachman said. In such a contentious year, and with many students doing distance learning, teachers should always be doing emotional temperature checks, said Jen Wheeler, the director of teacher professional development programs and curricula at Street Law. Talk to students a few days ahead of time when planning for an activity that could bring up strong opinions or emotions. Ask: What do you think we need to do in the next three days to make sure that we can have this conversation? (Newser) A Jewish student was about to enter the grounds of a synagogue in Hamburg, Germany, on Sunday, where worshippers were marking the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, when someone brutally attacked him. The 26-year-old, who was apparently beaten with a folding spade, was taken to the hospital with head injuries that the New York Times describes as "grave." A 29-year-old German man of Kazakh origin was arrested, the AP reports; he was wearing army fatigues and Al-Jazeera reports he had a piece of paper bearing a swastika in his pocket. story continues below Anti-Semitic crimes are on the rise in Germany, having nearly doubled over the past three years. "This is not a one-off case, this is vile anti-Semitism and we all have to stand against it," Germany's foreign minister said in response to the latest attack. Added the country's justice minister, "The hatred against Jews is a disgrace for our country. We have to further confront agitation against Jews and be there more for the victims of hatred and violence." "The question is: What have we not learned since Halle?" a Hamburg rabbi asks, referring to the white supremacist attack on a synagogue in Germany last year on Yom Kippur. (Read more anti-Semitism stories.) An important anniversary passed last month and predictably received no attention. This anniversary carries implications for how we receive news, how political campaigns are conducted, and the credibility of almost everything we see or hear from the media. On September 8, 2004, CBSs 60 Minutes used forged government documents as the basis for a story that attacked the military record of then-President George W. Bush. It was bad enough that CBS used forged government documents, but what made it worse was that CBS aired this story during the presidential election and timed the airing to coincide with the rollout of Democrat John Kerrys favorite son campaign theme. CBS thus provided the news upon which the Democrat candidate based his attack ads. The CBS story was quickly disproven and eventually forced CBS into personnel changes and investigations. Dan Rather was forced into retirement a few months later. But CBS did not give up before a lengthy battle in which bloggers demonstrated that the font and other features in the forged documents did not exist in 1972 (the date placed on the forgeries). The battle over the truth became a story in itself. The truth about the font spread like wildfire through the blogosphere and the internet, quickly picking up steam. CBS, Rather and the left clung to their story as long as they could. They even invented the fake but accurate standard to defend the forged documents. CBS and its surrogates belittled the bloggers but ended up making them famous. Conservative bloggers would embrace the pajamas epithet thrown at them during the battle some of whom still use it today. With persistence, they established that CBS was wrong. The documents were forgeries, and CBS personnel committed misconduct in airing the story. Investigations and lawsuits and an independent panel followed. The result was a victory for the truth and a blow to the establishment media. CBS was proven to have lied to influence a presidential election. Its lie was discovered and exposed very publicly over two weeks. The repercussions continued. Dan Rather retired the following winter (he is still trying to repair his reputation). CBS would be relegated to a distant third place in the news ratings for years, despite endless hype for high profile new anchors. (An excellent summary of the scandal appears in Hugh Hewitts 2005 book entitled Blog, at pp. 37-42.) Why is a 2004 scandal at CBS still relevant 16 years later? Even without Dan Rather, the network has not truly changed. The other networks are just as bad if not worse. Rathergate serves as one example of what the establishment media do. They lie. They lie regularly, and they lie during election years to help elect Democrats. They have created the permanent campaign and the permanent commercial in which they continually look forward to the next opportunity to elect Democrats. We cannot know every lie that they broadcast or print. But the experience of exploring Rathergate can help immunize us against future such lies. Celebrating the anniversary has a cleansing effect that leaves us stronger. We develop herd immunity to future lies because we commemorate this one prominent lie. The left does not allow its victories to collect dust. They perpetually celebrate Watergate (theyve produced two new films just since 2017), further distending the bloated library of Watergate movies and books. Leftists glorify Watergate witnesses and reporters. Even the co-conspirators are brought out of mothballs to condemn more recent GOP presidents. Viewers will never be allowed to forget it. Students of history learn about little else. These commemorations come in handy for the left when they make contrived and false accusations against new GOP administrations. Leftist followers have a convenient roadmap to impeachment as they ponder each fresh attack against Donald Trump. The Watergate comparison overshadows every new item of fake news. With each new battle, the GOP begins with one strike against it because the left perpetually commemorates Watergate. By contrast, the conservatives begin each new election cycle attempting to prove leftist bias in the media by highlighting voter registration among reporters, percentages of negative stories about GOP politicians, or censorship of conservative stories on social media. Those strategies are adequate as far as they go, but they are insufficient. We start each election cycle from scratch, never building on the facts we have established in prior years. We can do more. We can celebrate our past victories in ways that reveal the true context of our political wars. We can commemorate and explore Rathergate the same way that the MSM commemorates Watergate. Every year, we can write articles and columns noting the anniversary. Conservative authors somehow manage to get their books published. Some of those books can focus on Rathergate. The story is compelling, for it features conflict, intrigue, dishonesty, and a successful resolution. Conservatives should also produce films and documentaries. Those films can chronicle the events of September 2004. The blog posts that brought down Americas longest-serving anchor would be better preserved in book form or even on film. set to dramatic documentary music. The bloggers that exposed the lie can be interviewed. They have a story to tell. It will take more than one book, one movie, or one anniversary article. We need repetition. Many aspects of the scandal remain unexplored. Our initial despair upon CBSs airing of the forged documents was followed by anger as we learned the truth. That anger gave way to exhilaration as we realized that we could, indeed, defeat the MSM. The MSMs attacks on bloggers immediately following September 8, 2004, would, themselves, fill a volume. The explosion in the blogosphere in the months after the scandal is its own compelling story. The scandal inspired thousands of bloggers to document their ideas and spread facts that the MSM ignores. Some of these bloggers made careers for themselves in journalism. For the first time, they discovered that they were not alone in their beliefs and could amplify their efforts through concerted action. Because it continued to commit journalist atrocities, the MSM has already and will, in the future, provide more opportunities for such unified action. Hugh Hewitt has compared this explosion in blog activity to the early days of printing in the aftermath of Gutenbergs printing press. By exploring each of these angles through film, publications, social media, and even fiction, we could create a new backdrop for our political discussions. Instead of seeing every Republican president in the context of Watergate, we should filter every MSM story through Rathergate and its progeny. Skepticism about the MSM is not new. But it would be more concrete if the words of the Rathergate heroes rang in our ears as we witness each new bizarre accusation against President Trump. We need context to understand the mass of noise that the MSM daily throws at us. We cannot forever be mired in petty battles over the latest nonsense. We must see the forest instead. Rathergate was a major step toward discovering that forest. Let us make that discovery a constant part of our political discussion. Image: Dan Rather (edited in Pixlr), by Moody College of Communications. CC BY-SA 2.0. The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) joins the rest of the world in celebrating and observing World Teachers Day. World Teachers Day was created by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1994 to celebrate all educators in the world. It is a recognition of the vital role that teachers play in the lives of children, the future citizens and leaders of the world. Unfortunately, this day falls amidst the Covid-19 pandemic that invaded the world and drastically impacted our lives including teaching, education and schooling. With Covid-19 our teachers are de facto first responders risking their health and lives to educate our children The right to a proper education is a basic human right. Teaching is not an ordinary vocation; it is a noble mission of preparing the future citizens and leaders of the world. Recognizing and celebrating Teachers Day attests to the vital and instrumental role of teachers in society. Quality education and quality teaching is a basic right to every student at all levels, especially the K-12 level. This right to quality education cant be achieved without empowering and advancing the skills of all teachers and providing them with the needed resources and tools. Teachers are our indispensable and most valuable partners in raising a generation that believes in human rights and makes human rights a lived reality for everyone. On this day AHRC extends its best wishes to all the teachers in the world and urges policy makers at the local, national and international level to recognize the importance of teachers and treat them fairly, especially as to compensation and recognition. What makes every profession possible is one profession: Teaching. My late father was a teacher and I saw for myself the effort, commitment and the sacrifices he made for his students. We truly appreciate the immense efforts teachers are undertaking to make sure that students are learning despite the extraordinary challenges of living through a pandemic. Imad Hamad is the executive director of the American Human Rights Council. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 17:04:43|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Photo taken on Oct. 2, 2020 shows an exhibition of Chinese porcelain at the Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul, Turkey. A nearly 12,000-piece collection of Chinese porcelain is on display in the Topkapi Palace Museum, revealing an uninterrupted historical chronology of the evolution of Chinese porcelains from the 13th to the 19th century. (Photo by Osman Orsal/Xinhua) by Zeynep Cermen ISTANBUL, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Spanning over an area of over 5,250 square meters, a palace kitchen in Istanbul's European side was once feeding over 5,000 people per day, during the heydays of the Ottoman Empire. The continuous smoke coming out of a total of ten big chimneys of Topkapi Palace, possessing a striking view when looked from the Asian part of the city, used to be the symbol of the power and prosperity of the empire. "To make palace kitchens and tables even more magnificent and splendid, the Ottoman Sultans in the 13th century began to collect the most beautiful samples of Chinese porcelain," Omur Tufan, manager of Topkapi Palace Museum Porcelain Collection, said to Xinhua. It was a symbol of great wealth for the Sultans to present the dishes in these rare and unique examples of Chinese porcelains at weddings, circumcision ceremonies, and other important days, according to the manager. Now, a nearly 12,000-piece collection of Chinese porcelain is on display in the Topkapi Palace Museum, revealing an uninterrupted historical chronology of the evolution of Chinese porcelains from the 13th to the 19th century. "These are the ones that have been well preserved and remained to the present day," Tufan said. Historians believe that the actual number of Chinese porcelains used in the Ottoman palaces was over 100,000, but most of them were lost or destroyed in several earthquakes and fires. Tufan remarked that some of these pieces were presented as gifts from high-level state men or foreign diplomatic missions, and a significant part of the collection was transferred from China to the palaces through the ancient Silk Road. "Until the early 1700s, China was the only porcelain producer in the world, and the pieces it produced were very precious known as White Gold," he continued. "Ottoman Empire, on the other hand, did not know how to make it as they were not familiar with the technology. Therefore, the Sultans were very keen on these products, attributing great importance to using them as a symbol of nobility," Tufan noted. According to Tufan, one of the most preferred types of Chinese porcelains in the palace kitchens was celadons because they were believed to change color or get cracked when poison was added. "For this reason, the Sultans usually were eating their meals in the plates made of celadon," he said. "They also loved the yellow ones, which were known as the Emperor's yellow, and they were using these pieces during Muslim's holy Ramadan, as the color was symbolizing both the nobility and also simplicity," Tufan added. Later in the 16th century, Chinese artists started to write some verses from the Quran over the porcelains. During this period, the Muslim countries and the Ottoman Sultans purchased many samples to be used as dinner sets, Tufan added. Deniz Esemenli, a retired academic and writer of several books on Ottoman history, said Chinese porcelains dominated and adorned not only the Ottoman palaces but the entire world until the 16th century. "China initiated and significantly contributed to the development of porcelain production in the Ottoman Empire," Esemenli told Xinhua. "Starting from the 19th century, Turkish artists have produced many pieces by imitating Chinese patterns, and mostly inspired by the blue and white samples," he said. Enditem California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Monday the nomination of Martin J. Jenkins for associate justice of the California Supreme Court. Jenkins would be the first openly gay man and third African American man to serve on the state's highest court, potentially replacing one of the court's more conservative members with a former federal civil rights attorney who prosecuted cross burnings and police misconduct cases under President Ronald Reagan. Newsom described Jenkins as "a product and a protector of the California dream" and said he is a man of "inner strength, grace and passion." Jenkins accepted the governor's nomination and thanked the two African American men Wiley Manuel and Allen Broussard who served on the court before him. "I understand it has been 29 years since an African American man has served on the high court and I wouldn't be here today without the support and mentorship of these men," he said. African American Leondra Kruger is currently serving on the court. Jenkins called being gay the greatest challenge in his life. "I want to say today to those young people who may be watching and those who may hear about what has transpired here, I am not here in spite of the struggle," he said. "I'm here because of the struggle. It is deep in my character that has afforded me sensibilities about the world and about people who are not so willing to accept that people can love differently than they do, but nevertheless love sincerely and genuinely and effectively. I want these young people to know that living a life of authenticity is the greatest gift you can give yourself, and if you do that, you too will find yourself in a position where people see you, they really see you for who you are. And I thank you, Gov. Newsom, for giving me this opportunity and for seeing me. " Jenkins must be confirmed by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Cakauye, Attorney General Xavier Becerra and the most senior presiding judge of the Court of Appeal. Jenkins would replace Justice Ming W. Chin, the court's first Chinese American justice, who was appointed in by Republican Gov. Pete Wilson in 1996. The court has two other Asian American justices, including the chief justice. "The people of California could not ask for a better jurist or kinder person to take on this important responsibility," Newsom said of Jenkins. Jenkins, 66, was born in San Francisco and raised in the Ingleside neighborhood in a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home. His mother stayed at home and his father worked as a clerk and janitor at Coit Tower. He said he wasn't poor but noted the family did not have a lot of disposable income. "There is a portion of folks who live like that in this country, maybe more now that live below the poverty line than in the '50s and '60s when I was coming up," he said. After graduating from Santa Clara University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1977, Jenkins briefly played for the Seattle Seahawks. Leaving the field, he earned a law degree from the University of San Francisco School of Law and went on to work for decades in Californias state and federal courts and criminal justice system. Jenkins worked as a prosecutor for the Alameda County District Attorney's Office before joining the U.S. Department of Justice as a civil rights attorney. Since then, he's been appointed to four different judgeships by Republicans and Democrats. A pair of Republican governors appointed him to state judgeships before Democratic President Bill Clinton made him a federal judge in 1998. He left that job in 2008 when Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed him to the state Court of Appeal. Jenkins retired last year to become judicial appointment secretary for Newsom, helping him vet judicial appointments. You can watch the full press briefing here. The Associated Press contributed to this story. The GST Council meeting on Monday may turn into a stormy affair, with non-BJP ruled states still being in disagreement with the Centre on the compensation issue. While as many as 21 states, mostly ruled by BJP or parties which have supported it on issues, had till mid-September opted to borrow Rs 97,000 crore to meet the GST revenue shortfall in the current fiscal, opposition-led states like West Bengal, Punjab and Kerala have not yet accepted the borrowing option given by the Centre. Sources said in the 42nd meeting of the Council on October 5, opposition-ruled states would object to the Centres borrowing options and demand alternative mechanism for funding GST compensation deficit. They feel that the constitutional liability of compensating states lies with the union government. In the current fiscal, the states are staring at a staggering Rs 2.35 lakh crore Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue shortfall. Of this, as per Centres calculation, about Rs 97,000 crore is on account of GST implementation and rest Rs 1.38 lakh crore is the impact of COVID-19 on states revenues. The Centre in August gave two options to the states to borrow either Rs 97,000 crore from a special window facilitated by the RBI or Rs 2.35 lakh crore from market and has also proposed extending the compensation cess levied on luxury, demerit and sin goods beyond 2022 to repay the borrowing. The non-BJP ruled states are at loggerheads with the Centre over the issue of funding the shortfall. Chief Ministers of six non-BJP ruled states West Bengal, Kerala, Delhi, Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Tamil Nadu have written to the Centre opposing the options which require states to borrow to meet shortfall. While these states want the Centre to borrow to meet the shortfall, the Centre has argued that the revenue accruing from GST compensation cess goes to the states and the Centre cannot borrow on the security of the tax it does not own. Under the GST structure, taxes are levied under 5, 12, 18 and 28 per cent slabs. On top of the highest tax slab, a cess is levied on luxury, sin and demerit goods and the proceeds from the same are used to compensate states for any revenue loss. Attorney General of India K K Venugopal had given his legal view on the compensation cess issue where he has opined that there is no obligation on the Centre under the GST laws to compensate for the loss of revenue. He had opined that the GST Council has to find ways to meet any revenue shortfall arising out of GST implementation. The payment of GST compensation to states became an issue after revenues from the imposition of cess started dwindling since August 2019. The Centre had to dive into the excess cess amount collected during 2017-18 and 2018-19. The Centre had released over Rs 1.65 lakh crore in 2019-20 as GST compensation. However, the amount of cess collected during 2019-20 was Rs 95,444 crore. The compensation payout amount was Rs 69,275 crore in 2018-19 and Rs 41,146 crore in 2017-18. During April-July of the current fiscal, the total compensation due to states stand at over Rs 1.51 lakh crore. Jacksonville Public Library will hold a program on consumer fraud prevention at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 20 on Zoom. Marsha Griffin of the Illinois Attorney Generals Office will discuss ways to prevent identity theft and other common scams. She also will give updates related to the COVID-19 pandemic and how to get help from the attorney generals office. There will be time for questions and answers at the end of the presentation. For Zoom information, email ssnyder@jaxpl.org or call 217- 243-5435. Rochelle Eiselt Virginia Bill Will Finally Ban Sex Between Detainees and Police Despite Claims of Consent Both chambers of the Virginia General Assembly have passed a bill that will try correction officers who engage in sexual relations with detainees as a Class 6 Felony. However, Governor Ralph Northam still needs to sign the bill for it to become law. Delegate Karrie Delaney said she proposed the bill to close a loophole in the law which currently allows police officers to have sexual relations with a detainee. ADVERTISEMENT This puts people in a clear power imbalance at a very vulnerable time if they were detained by an officer with ill intent that wanted to take advantage of someone in that situation. Unfortunately, that has happened and that is ultimately the purpose of this law, Delaney said. The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) of 2003 was the first federal law to try and prevent sexual assault of inmates. According to the bill, at least 13 percent of the inmates have been sexually assaulted in prisons in the United States. While it protects inmates from sexual abuse by guards in prison, the law does not apply to detainees who have not yet been convicted of a crime. So, police can argue a consent defense if detainees accuse them of rape because theres technically no law against it. In 2017, a woman accused two New York police officers of raping her while in their custody. Through this loophole in the PREA, the New York officers argued the woman had given her consent. Delaney said about the proposed bill, This, I think, was a vital part of police reform that is a very common sense, common ground solution. As of this year, in 34 states police can legally rape detainees if they claim it was consensual. Several states have taken steps to close this loophole. Congress is also considering bills that will do the same. Sex between detainees and police officers should be explicitly illegal at all times. Someone in police custody cannot consent freely when they are being detained. We need to prioritize this bill and require it to be nation-wide. Header image of police car courtesy of PixaBay. More from BUST "The Invisible Life Of Addie LaRue" Is The Time Travel Novel We All Need To Escape Reality Right Now Rihanna Continues To Champion Body Positivity With "Savage X Fenty Vol. 2" Artist Claudia Gutierrez On Color, Textiles, And The Importance Of Art Georgia is a journalism student at The New School in Manhattan who loves writing, watching cartoons and intersectional feminism. She is an avid napper and cat lover. Because she is behind on the times, follow her only recently made twitter @georgiagrdodd. Sushmitha Ramakrishnan By Express News Service CHENNAI: While Scripture Union (SU), an international Christian organisation, on Monday suspended one of its preachers for allegedly sending inappropriate messages to schoolgirls, The New Indian Express has learnt that it was alerted to his alleged misbehaviour at least two months ago. The organisation suspended Samuel Jaisundar after a Twitter user named @joelgiftson17 on Sunday shared screenshots of social media direct messages purportedly between Jaisundar and several schoolgirls across Tamil Nadu. Jaisundar and his team regularly visited Christian missionary-run schools across TN since 2006 and he conducted a Vocational Bible School (VBS) and summer camps. TNIE independently found posts from at least 32 female students from eight schools across the State alleging that Jaisundar had sent them inappropriate messages asking for their pictures, particularly ones in which they are wearing skirts or frocks. TNIE also spoke to five students by phone and messages. They said that while Jaisundar was charming and popular, he also made many of them feel very uncomfortable, describing his behaviour as manipulative and creepy. TNIE could not reach Jaisundar for a response. SU admitted that it had been made aware of Jaisundars alleged misbehaviour two months ago when the parents of a 19-year-old girl made an oral complaint. Praveen Alexander, the head of the legal team representing SU, said the girls parents had complained that Jaisundar initiated inappropriate conversations with their daughter over an app. He had been chatting with the girl since she was in high school. "Based on the complaint, Scripture Union gave oral instructions to Sam to refrain from school activities. So, he has been barred from entering school campuses anymore. This happened two months ago. Now that we are going to conduct an inquiry, we will come out with the truth," Alexander told TNIE on Monday evening. SU did not alert the police about the complaint nor does it appear to have warned schools that engaged its services about Jaisundars alleged misbehaviour. Under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, any person (including the child), who has apprehension that an offence under this Act is likely to be committed or has knowledge that such an offence has been committed, must provide information to the Special Juvenile Police Unit or the local police. Although the complainant was 19 years old, given Jaisundar met her as a schoolchild and continued to have access to school children through SU, questions arise as to whether the organisation failed in protecting children by not formally reporting the alleged misbehaviour. A Vellore-based school, for instance, indicated it had only learned of the alleged misbehaviour after the issue came to light on social media, despite sources alleging it had been alerted some time ago. The principal of the school told TNIE that the institution has initiated an independent inquiry into the matter. "The reprehensible messages exchanged on social media have come to our notice. We have taken immediate action to ascertain the motives of the participants of the said group as well as the veracity of the contents," the principal said, adding that they would, "therefore not be in a position to tell you anything more than this for the present." Vidya Reddy of Tulir- Centre for the Prevention and Healing of Child Sexual Abuse said that despite the social media outcry police would not be able to do much unless a complaint is filed by one of the victims. Unfortunately, she pointed out, there are multiple barriers for families to report such offenses, including children feeling guilty and complicit in the crime, that need to be addressed. While stressing that institutions like the SU and schools must have child protection policies, she said, "There is no point in just sitting and chest-beating, hand wringing and tweeting on social media and lamenting about the state of affairs. Parents too must make an effort to ensure these policies are in place," she said. Despite students telling TNIE that Jaisundars alleged misbehaviour had gone on for years, they added it was only whispered about and not out in the open. According to Christina (name changed), now a third year college student from Bengaluru, it was about two months ago, on a private chat of a school alumni group that someone said, "Sam uncle was a creep." Alumni of a school in Vellore, which Jaisundar visited, also alleged that he and other members of the union made many students feel uncomfortable in person as well. Students are usually called to interact with the worship leaders in person after the union service, said Christina. "I was disinterested one particular day during that interaction. Sam noticed this, called me aside and said, "You have a pretty smile. You should smile more often" and winked at me." When she told her friends that the conversation had made her feel uncomfortable, they told her she was overthinking it. "This happened five years ago when I was in Class 10. Everyone thought he was a nice guy. So I let it go then," she said. In the screenshots shared on social media, the user purported to be Jaisundar asks girls, aged between 10-17, to share photos of themselves in short clothing, particularly in skirts or frocks. In one alleged conversation, he purportedly asks a minor if she has kissed boys on the lips, hugged them and about her relationship status. A Class 12 student recalled his behaviour when she reached out to him feeling confused about her faith and religion. "He acted like I was traumatised. He held my hand and said it's ok. I stood up and he hugged me. I felt squished, like I was touched inappropriately," she said. The next day, she said, students were taking group photographs when Jaisundar allegedly slid his hands around her shoulders. "I was disgusted by this. He pestered me repeatedly for my Whatsapp number and I could not be rude after a point," she said. According to her, he had a way of building up the conversation before asking for pictures of the girls. "He would remember very personal details. He would give a series of compliments that were not shallow. He said I was smart, that my English was good and my smile was beautiful and then he asked for my pictures," she said. She said she once sent him a photo of herself "fully covered in clothes without a smile as a joke. He didn't text me for a while after that." Child protection experts call such behaviour as grooming a victim before committing an offence. Victims often feel complicit in the offence, preventing them from reporting or disclosing it. On another occasion, the Class 12 student claimed he had asked for pictures of her school dance and said that he "cannot forget her arabian dance. Another student, through an email, described as the sessions conducted by Jaisundar and his team as "cult-like functioning of these sessions including blatant homophobia, sexism, shaming of the #metoo movement etc." She said that the children adored the team, especially Jaisundar. "We'd wait in anticipation for SU week and fight with all the other kids in school to meet him. He was the funny, caring, silly but understanding grown-up that we thought we could trust. He took advantage of that," she said, recalling incidents from when she was in school a couple of years ago. "At first, I was ecstatic (at his attention). I took it as a sign that I was special. I was very happy to be receiving attention from this person who we all put on a pedestal," she said, elaborating that he commented on a picture she had posted on social media wearing a dress. "He responded saying, "Wow, this is a very naugty picture." Then he took a screenshot of the post and sent it to me asking me about it. I got a little nervous, but I just responded with a 'haha' thinking I was overthinking. She told TNIE that she panicked and couldn't tell her parents. "I tried telling some friends at school, but due to the image he had carefully cultivated over the years, no one listened to or believed me. I was branded a liar, and called attention-seeking," she said, adding that she felt guilty. I felt like it was my fault for posting a picture of myself in a dress. I deleted my account and got off social media for months after that. I was too scared and felt too guilty to go online. I carried that guilt with me for years, until I grew up a little, and understood that it was not my fault.," she said. Record number of flights into Cancun International including first Paris-Cancun since Coronavirus Cancun, Q.R. On Sunday, Cancun received its first Paris flight since Coronavirus shut down travel into the region. Governor Carlos Joaquin made the announcement saying we have received the Paris-Cancun flight from Air France again. One of the most successful routes from Europe returns after the pandemic. In addition, we broke a record Sunday with 291 air operations. We are moving forward in the reactivation of Quintana Roo. The governor of Quintana Roo celebrated that these days, the Cancun International Airport is receiving flights from Europe including those from Lufthansa airline, which arrived October 1. On October 4, flights between Paris and Cancun resumed with the arrival of the airline Air France. Dignitaries celebrate the arrival of the Paris flight On October 3, Edelweiss returned to the Cancun International Airport, which is starting with a weekly operation on Saturdays to connect Quintana Roo with Zurich. An increase in frequencies is expected by the end of the year. Carlos Joaquin added that this past weekend, there were more than 41,000 tourists in the state. Today, more than ever, is when we must have more care and attention and less relaxation because there are more people on the streets, because there are more people arriving to visit and tourism, without a doubt, requires greater care of health, he stressed. Donald Trumps military physician declined to provide any details on aspects of the coronavirus-infect presidents health, including results of chest scans and when he had his last negative test. 'I'm not at liberty to discuss': Dr Sean Conley told reporters, sidestepping questions on whether the president is still contagious. He said privacy laws that protect every patients privacy prevent him from disclosing information. Dr Conley also refused to say when the presidents last positive Covid-19 test occurred and struggled to tell reporters how they could ensure his safety and those of White House employees and aides once he is back there. The physician and other members of his medical team also were unable or unwilling to clearly answer questions about other of his vital signs and test results. On Sunday, Dr Conley was more open about the presidents lung tests, saying he expected some findings from them. A day later, he cited privacy laws. The team briefed reporters at Walter Reed hospital minutes after the president appeared to discharge himself. In a tweet, Trump announced he will leave the hospital where he has been treated for coronavirus on Monday evening and return to the White House, telling Americans dont be afraid of Covid. Feeling really good! Dont be afraid of Covid. Dont let it dominate your life. We have developed, under the Trump Administration, some really great drugs & knowledge. I feel better than I did 20 years ago! the president tweeted. The Court of Appeal in London on Monday asked the High Court to re-examine a ruling that said the UK government "unequivocally recognised" Venezuela's opposition leader as president. A High Court judge in July interpreted a statement by Britain's former foreign minister Jeremy Hunt as meaning London backed Juan Guaido as interim president of the troubled Latin American country. The ruling came in a dispute over $1 billion in gold reserves that Venezuela's central bank (BCV) wants released from the Bank of England to help fund the country's response to the coronavirus crisis. The Bank of England said it was unable to act on the instructions because it was "caught in the middle" of competing claims for the presidency after disputed elections in 2018. At the heart of the case is who has the power to direct the release of the reserves. The Venezuelan central bank's board was appointed by the government of President Nicolas Maduro, successor to the late anti-US populist Hugo Chavez. But a rival ad hoc board appointed by Guaido had asked for the release to be denied. Guiado's January 2019 claim to the presidency was backed by the United States and dozens of other countries. - 'Access to Venezuela's gold' - News of the appeals court request was met triumphantly by the Maduro regime. "The British court decision is another defeat" for "the illegal band led by" Guaido and "their ambitions to make off with Venezuela's riches," Freddy Nanez, minister for communication and information, said on Twitter. However, Guaido's office pointed out that the court request didn't give Maduro's administration "access to Venezuela's gold." The three appeals court judges said Hunt's statement was "ambiguous, or at any rate less than unequivocal" and a definitive answer was needed. They asked the High Court to look again at the issue to determine whether the British government recognises Guaido as president "for all purposes" and not Maduro "for any purpose". Story continues "The lower court judgment had led to a completely unrealistic situation in which the president of the BCV and its board, who are in full control of the BCV's office, mint and day-to-day operations of the central bank in Caracas, were being told that they could no longer deal with very substantial central bank deposits in London," said lawyer Sarosh Zaiwalla, representing the Maduro board. Instead, access to the gold "was being handed over to a group of individuals living outside Venezuela, who the constitutional court in Venezuela had already ruled to have no lawful authority. "This cannot have been a correct outcome," he added. Venezuela is home to the world's biggest proven oil reserves but has seen its economy shrink by more than half under Maduro. The country's socialist government is targeted by a slew of international sanctions, including a US oil embargo. bcp-bc/mbx The programme aims to diversify the structure of the Egyptian economy, increase its flexibility, and raise the ability to absorb external and internal shocks, said El-Said The private sector is a key partner in development, playing a critical role in designing, implementing, and following up on Egypts structural reforms, which constitute the second phase of the economic reform programme, said Egypts Minister of Planning and Economic Development Hala El-Said. El-Said was speaking on the sidelines of the ministry' recent meetings to review Egypt's efforts during the second wave of economic reforms, which focus on structural reforms. El-Said noted that the review comes within the framework of the role assigned to the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development in diversifying the productive structure and increasing the productive capacity and competitiveness of the Egyptian economy. It has become an urgent necessity to confront the recent radical changes in the global economy as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak for Egypt to benefit from the post-pandemic situation, El-Said said. El-Said explained that the structural reforms programme aims to diversify the structure of the Egyptian economy and increase its flexibility, raise the ability to absorb external and internal shocks, and transform the path of the Egyptian economy to become a productive, knowledge-based economy with competitive capabilities in the global economy. The minister asserted the importance of the structural reforms programme in terms of cooperation between the programme and the Erada ("Will") initiative to reform the business climate. Erada is based on a set of pillars, foremost among which are the contribution to reforming the legislative system regulating the business climate, participation in reforming the procedural system regulating the business climate, and building the legislative impact evaluation system to support the decision-maker in organising the practice of economic activities, said El-Said. She added that structural reforms include building and developing a database of legislation regulating the business climate in Egypt, which involves a large number of legislation and regulations, by partnering with the private sector. In June, Egypt received the first tranche of a loan, $2 billion, from the International Monetary Fund under a 12-month stand-by agreement worth a total of $5.2 billion to support its second phase of economic reforms. The first review of the loan programme is scheduled for December, and the second review will take place in June 2021. Search Keywords: Short link: (Newser) A Louisiana 4th-grader was suspended from school for six days after a teacher spotted what turned out to be a BB gun on his screen during a virtual class on Sept. 11. Now the 9-year-old's parents are suing, CNN reports. During a hearing last month, the school board found Ka'Mauri Harrison "guilty of displaying a facsimile weapon while receiving virtual instruction from Woodmere Elementary School," per the lawsuit, which seeks at least $50,000 for "mental pain, suffering, anguish and embarrassment, humiliation and loss of self-esteem, future counseling and tutoring and lost income." It also requests Ka'Mauri be allowed to make up the work he missed. Per NOLA, Ka'Mauri was taking a test in his bedroom when his brother came in and tripped over the gun, which was next to Ka'Mauri's desk. Ka'Mauri moved it to the other side, leaning it against the desk. story continues below The teacher, who could then see the gun's barrel on camera, attempted to get Ka'Mauri's attention but he had his volume down. He was then disconnected from the class. His mother called the school and was told the incident had been reported to the principal; her son was recommended for expulsion, though that did not come to pass. The school district has not commented on the case, but says teachers "may employ reasonable disciplinary and corrective measures to maintain order." A lawyer for Ka'Mauri's family, who says Ka'Mauri's record now lists a weapons violation, says the teacher went too far in applying the school's on-campus weapons policy to a remote learning class. She also tells WDSU the district did not allow the family to appeal. The Louisiana AG's office investigated the incident and told the school last month that Ka'Mauri's constitutional rights afford him an appeal. (Read more remote learning stories.) London: Ending the US-China trade war will be nothing compared to the experience of her mother being kidnapped, according to one of the front-runners to lead the World Trade Organisation. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, 66, said the reforms she spearheaded as Nigerian finance minister led to her octogenarian mother Kamene Okonjo being abducted from her home for five days in 2012, but equipped her to replace Brazilian Roberto Azevedo as director-general of the ailing trade body. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala says she wants the WTO to play a bigger role in health. Credit:Getty Images The second of three rounds of "confessionals" individual meetings with the permanent representatives of each of the WTO's 164 members ends on Tuesday, after which the pool of five candidates will be reduced to two. Also in the running are Britain's Liam Fox, the former international trade secretary, who surprised trade officials who had not expected him to progress beyond the first round; Amina Mohamed, the Kenyan Culture Secretary; Yoo Myung-hee, the South Korean Trade Minister; and Mohammad al-Tuwaijri, a Saudi Arabian minister who advises the royal court on economics. President Donald Trumps health status was unclear midday Monday as the drama around his treatment and the coronaviruss toll on the White House continued to mount after he was admitted Friday to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Trump is eager to leave the hospital as soon as Monday, and preliminary discussions were underway about whether he would do that before Vice President Mike Pence departs for Utah before Wednesday nights vice presidential debate. In the morning, the White House shuttled reporters to Walter Reed, where a briefing lectern had been placed, raising speculation about another update from Trumps medical team. But as of the early afternoon, the White House had not indicated when another briefing might come, and the lectern remained covered with a garbage bag. Amid questions about whether Trump could relocate to the White House without endangering himself and others came a reminder that the virus may still be spreading through the West Wing and beyond. Trumps press secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, announced that she, too, had tested positive for the virus and would be quarantining. McEnany, who said she had previously tested negative several times, spoke briefly to reporters outside the White House on Sunday. She did not wear a mask. Two more members of the press team, Karoline Leavitt and Chad Gilmartin, who is McEnanys relative, also tested positive but learned about their diagnoses before McEnany, according to two people familiar with the diagnoses. After Wednesday nights debate, Pence plans to attend campaign events in Arizona and Florida later this week before stopping in his home state of Indiana to vote early. Trump pushed to be discharged earlier Sunday, according to people familiar with the events, motivated to leave out of a desire to show the country and the world that he is functional and not bedridden by a virus. But Trumps doctors Sunday did not favor him leaving the hospital to return to the White House. Instead, a decision was made to allow Trump to be driven slowly by crowds of supporters across the street from the hospital so he could be seen. Health experts have said the decision was highly unusual for a patient with an infectious illness who is being treated with a therapeutic drug that is administered intravenously. In an interview on Fox & Friends on Monday morning, the presidents chief of staff, Mark Meadows, said a decision had not been made yet about whether Trump could be discharged Monday. The doctors will actually have an evaluation sometime late morning, Meadows said. And then the president, in consultation with the doctors, will make a decision on whether to discharge him later today. Based on his doctors accounts Sunday, Trumps symptoms appear to have rapidly progressed since he announced early Friday that he had tested positive for the coronavirus. Trump had a high fever Friday, and his blood oxygen levels dropped on two occasions, his doctors said, including to a level that can indicate that a patients lungs are compromised, a symptom seen in many patients with severe COVID-19. His doctors said he is also undergoing a five-day antiviral treatment regimen for COVID-19 and that he had been prescribed dexamethasone, a steroid used to head off an immune system overreaction that kills many COVID-19 patients. This is also generally reserved for those with severe illness. Maggie Haberman and Eileen Sullivan@c.2020 The New York Times Company Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin said Monday he will self-quarantine after a Cabinet minister he was in contact with tested positive for the coronavirus, as cases in the country hit a record high. Muhyiddin had chaired an October 3 meeting attended by Religious Affairs Minister Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri, who confirmed Monday he has been hospitalized for treatment. The health ministry has warned that Malaysia is facing a new wave of virus cases as the outbreak has widened in recent days. New clusters have sprung up in many states amid increased travel to eastern Sabah state, a hotspot zone, for a state election last month. New virus cases hit a record daily high of 432 on Monday, bringing Malaysias tally to 12,813 with 137 deaths. Nearly half were from a prison in a northern state, and 130 were in Sabah. Muhyiddin, who took power in March after a political coup, said in a statement that he underwent virus testing every two weeks since April. But since returning from campaigning in Sabah, he had tested three times since Sept. 22 and all were negative. However, he said he will observe the quarantine and work from home until October 16. Muhyiddin said all those in close contact with Zulkifli at the meeting will undergo compulsory quarantine, while others are advised to observe self-isolation. Local reports said the attendees included several ministers, the national police chief, the armed forces chief and the health director-general. Health ministry officials couldnt be immediately reached for confirmation and further details. This was the second time that Muhyiddin has voluntarily observed a self-quarantine. He did the same in May when one of his Cabinet officers was diagnosed with the virus. Local reports said religious minister Zulkfili visited two states and attended a number of events including at mosques and universities since returning from Sabah on Sept 24. Zulkifli apologized in a Facebook post and urged all those at events he attended to undergo virus tests. The government also announced Monday that more areas in Sabah, including state capital Kota Kinabalu, will be locked down to curb the virus. Sabah is just a boat ride away from the south of the Philippines, which has recorded more than 324,000 cases. Malaysia resumed its economic activities in June after nearly three months of lockdown. Normally, when you think about investment cars, you think about classic, classy motors. Old Porsches. Rare Aston Martins. E30s, DeLoreans, even G-Wagens. Normally European, always distinctive, and rarely the kind of car youd be seen dead in a pair of Nike TNs in. But in a rather unexpected turn of events, some of Australias most bogan cars are becoming insanely valuable. Were talking VL Commodores, Mazda RX-3s, XF Falcons, Toyota Cressidas and even Geminis widely considered one of the dinkiest cars ever sold in Australia back in the day. More modern bogan fare is also seeing huge price hikes, like Nissan Silvias or Honda CRXs and Integras. So why are some of Australias most unloved, most notorious or most boring cars suddenly becoming hot property? DMARGE spoke to Luke Lalor from MOTORbiz in Melbourne, who explained its all about timing. Were seeing a massive movement towards bogan cars Particularly naturally-aspirated pocket rockets from the 70s to the 90s. Not only were these the kinds of cars that [Gen X] wanted when they were young, but they sit in this nice 20-30k collector price bracket. You dont need to drop 100k on a VL Turbo, for example. Holdens in particular are holding their value, partially because of Holden pulling out of Australia. Theyre just quintessentially bogan. Rotary engined cars are also holding strong, theyre so bogan too, he laughs. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cool Cars For Sale Australia (@car_rave) on Sep 28, 2020 at 9:13pm PDT Its a weird phenomenon whilst the value of bogan cars has markedly increased in recent months, their prices remain more accessible to collectors than the prices of more traditional classic car investments. Not to mention many of them beat out other classics on the performance front. Theyre also not so expensive as to make you worried about actually driving them. Lets face it, if you spend $715,000 on a classic Monaro, youre hardly going to want to take it down to the shops. RELATED: Motoring Experts Share How To Pick The Classic Cars Of The Future Indeed, one of the reasons theyre becoming so valuable is because of the bogan connection. Unmolested bogan cars are rare, because bogans like modifying (and crashing) their cars. For example, finding an old WRX that hasnt been stolen, smashed or thrashed is incredibly difficult, so an example in good condition especially if its a 2-door model can set you back more than a new WRX in some cases. Its also a way of setting yourself apart from the crowd. Its all about originality, Lalor concludes. We say let the bogan Renaissance begin. Read Next Maharashtra BJP vice president Chitra Wagh on Sunday demanded Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to take strict action against a policeman who held Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra by her clothes during a protest on Saturday. How dare a male police officer lay his hand on the clothes of a woman political leader!, Wagh posted on Twitter in Hindi. Yogi Adityanath ji, who believes in the Indian culture, should take strict action against such police officials, she said. China has chosen 18 new astronauts after a strict, two-year selection process to help it achieve its space exploration ambition. The team is due to receive systematic training before assisting with the operation of the country's crewed space station, according to Beijing's space authority. The Chinese government started to build its staffed space station in May and aims to complete it in 2022. It also plans to put a man on the moon by 2030. China has selected its third batch of backup astronauts, 17 men and one woman, for its manned space station programme. The picture shows a model of an astronaut on the top of a partial model of the Chinese space station at the Airshow China 2018 on November 6, 2018 China's Manned Space Engineering (CMSE), the authority in charge of the manned space programme, said earlier this year that the country planned to launch four Shenzhou crewed spacecraft in the next two years to help build the space station. The astronauts who would be tasked to man these spaceships had already been decided by May and were undertaking relevant training, Ji Qiming, an official said at a press conference. The latest recruits include seven pilots, seven spaceflight engineers and four payload specialists. They would be part of the reserved astronauts, a post from CMSE said last week. Among them, 17 are male, and one is female. They were handpicked from 2,500 applicants through three rounds of selection from May 2018. China's space authority said in May that the country planned to launch four Shenzhou crewed spaceships to help build the space station. The nation aims to complete the station in 2022 China's manned space station is set to operate in the low-Earth orbit at an altitude from 340 kilometres (211 miles) to 450 kilometres (280 miles) for more than 10 years, state media reported. Chinese officials had already chosen two batches of reserves, and the latest group would 'lay an important foundation for the long-term construction of our country's astronaut team and the follow-up development of the space station project', the post added. China sent its first astronaut, Yang Liwei, into space less than two decades ago. Yang, a Lieutenant Colonel of the People's Liberation Army, became a national hero after being launched into orbit aboard Shenzhen-5 spaceflight on October 15, 2003. He returned to earth a day later. Since then, 10 other Chinese astronauts have visited space. The Chinese space station is set to operate in the low-Earth orbit at an altitude from 340 kilometres (211 miles) to 450 kilometres (280 miles) for more than 10 years. A partial model of the Chinese space station is pictured on display at the Airshow China 2018 in Zhuhai The news came after China last month unveiled its plan to build a heavy-lift carrier rocket that could fly astronauts to the moon. The new launch vehicle would be able to carry a 25-ton manned spaceship and lunar lander. Chinese officials are also considering building a mobile laboratory on the moon and a space station on Lunar orbit. Like the US and Russia, China first engaged in space activities during the development of ballistic missiles in the 1950s. While they did benefit from some assistance from the Soviet Union, China developed its space programme largely on its own. In recent decades, China's secretive space programme has developed rapidly. China became the third country to put a man in space with its own rocket in 2003 after the former Soviet Union and the United States. Pictured, Chinese astronaut Yang Liwei waves after emerging from the Shenzhou-5 capsule in China's Inner Mongolia on October 16, 2003 Last year, Chang'e-4 became the first spacecraft from any country to land on the far side of the moon. In May, China launched a new manned spaceship - with no crew on board with its largest carrier rocket, signalling one step closer towards sending astronauts with its lunar exploration. China has made huge strides in the past decade and has laid the groundwork to assemble a space station by 2022 and gain a permanent foothold in Earth orbit. The nation has been racing to catch up with Russia and the United States to become a major space power by 2030. The United States is so far the only country that has been able to send humans to the moon. PIL in SC challenges Centre's ordinances on powers to extend tenure of Directors of CBI, ED CBI raids against Karnataka Cong chief DK Shivakumar in disproportionate assets case India oi-Madhuri Adnal Bengaluru, Oct 05: The CBI has registered a case against Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar for allegedly amassing disproportionate assets worth Rs 74.93 crore and carried out searches at 14 locations on Monday during which the agency claimed to have recovered Rs 57 lakh cash, officials said. CBI raids Karnataka Cong Chief DK Shivakumar's premises in alleged corruption case | Oneindia News The case was registered after a seven-month-long preliminary enquiry looking into disproportionate assets of Shivakumar amassed in his and his family members'' name during his tenure as a minister in the Karnataka government, the CBI alleged. This is the first case by the CBI against Shivakumar, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President and an MLA, who was earlier arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a case of alleged money laundering, they said. The Congress hit out at the BJP-led central government, accusing it of "witch-hunt", and linked the CBI action to the November 3 by-election in two assembly seats in Karnataka. CBI raids Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar's residence The BJP rejected the charges and said Shivakumar should answer the agencies on the source of his assets. After registering the case under IPC sections related to criminal conspiracy and provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, the CBI teams searched at 14 locations spread across Karnataka, Maharashtra and Delhi. Nine locations in Karnataka, four in Delhi and one in Mumbai were searched by the CBI which also included the residence of Shivakumar at Safdarjung Enclave and that of his brother DK Suresh, a member of parliament, in Kaveri Apartments in the national capital and their residences in Bengaluru, they said. "Searches were conducted today at 14 locations including Karnataka, Delhi, Mumbai at the premises of said MLA (Shivakumar) and others which led to the recovery of cash of Rs 57 lakh(approx) and several incriminating documents including property documents, bank related information, computer hard disk, etc. Investigation is continuing," CBI spokesperson RK Gaur said in a statement. Shivakumar, who was appointed chief of the Congress'' Karnataka state unit in March this year, had been a minister in the Siddaramaiah Government of the Congress as well as the JDS-Congress Government led by HD Kumaraswamy. The CBI action drew flak from Congress leaders who questioned its timing as the by-election to Sira and R R Nagar assembly segments in Karnataka is to be held on November 3. Party workers protested against the CBI in front of Shivakumar''s residence in Bengaluru and various places in the state. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed it "raid raj" and a "Machiavellian move" by the BJP government. "The insidious game of intimidation & machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding @DKShivakumar won''t deter us. "CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt. But, ''Raid Raj'' is their only ''Machiavellian Move''!," Surjewala said on Twitter. "Let Modi & Yeddyurappa Govts & BJP''s frontal organizations i.e CBI-ED-Income Tax know that Congress workers & leaders will not be cowed down nor bow down before such devious attempts. Our resolve to fight for people & expose BJP''s maladministration only becomes stronger," he tweeted. Congress Legislature Party leader Siddaramaiah alleged that the BJP "has always tried to indulge in vindictive politics and mislead public attention". "The latest CBI raid on @KPCCPresident @DKShivakumar''s house is another attempt to derail our preparation for bypolls. I strongly condemn this," he tweeted. Congress spokesperson A S Ponnanna, who is also a senior advocate of the Karnataka High Court, questioned the searches, claiming that it was against the direction of the court. "I''m surprised politics is down to this level... CBI has to function under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, under which if they have to come to a state and investigate, they have to get permission from the state government, the permission that was given has been questioned by Shivakumar," he said. "The court had said do not precipitate, what I have understood from this is- they (CBI) should have not have acted. "They should have got it vacated from the court and acted, after permission from the court," Ponnanna, who served as an additional advocate general during the Congress government, said, adding that the investigation should be fair and lawful. Countering the allegations, BJP National General Secretary C T Ravi said Shivakumar should cooperate with the CBI in its investigation. Ravi, a former Karnataka minister, said, "The CBI is doing its work. If the Congress leader is clean, he should cooperate and tell the truth." He also sought to know if Shivakumar''s economic growth was natural as his assets grew "from Rs 75 crore in 2008 to Rs 250 crore in 2013 and Rs 840 crore in 2018". "You can respond to political issues standing in the street, but about the illegal acquisition of money or illegal transfer of money, one has to respond to CBI or ED," the BJP leader said. "There is no problem in making assets, but one needs to reveal the source of the money. If crores of rupees are kept in the name of his daughter who is still studying, he ought to respond to the CBI," Ravi added. Earlier, the ED had arrested Shivakumar in September last year on charges of money laundering. He was released from jail on October 23 after the Delhi High Court granted him bail The PMLA case against him and others was slapped on the basis of a charge sheet (prosecution complaint) filed by the Income Tax Department in 2018 before a special court in Bengaluru on charges of alleged tax evasion and hawala transactions worth crores. The I-T department has accused Shivakumar and his alleged associates of transporting a huge amount of unaccounted cash regularly through ''hawala'' channels with the help of three other accused. The former Karnataka cabinet minister played an instrumental role in ensuring the safe stay of Gujarat Congress MLAs in a Karnataka resort during the Rajya Sabha polls in 2017 amid allegations that the BJP was trying to poach them. Congress president Sonia Gandhi''s political secretary Ahmed Patel had fought the Rajya Sabha election from Gujarat in 2017 and Shivakumar had hosted 44 Gujarat Congress MLAs at the resort to keep the flock together. The ED had questioned his daughter Aishwarya too in this case after she was summoned to appear in Delhi. Paul Giammarinaro has a million-dollar idea to make money, if only state officials would talk to him. Fed up after repeatedly trying to get in touch with Gov. Tom Wolf and other elected officials, the Bethlehem Township man took a homemade sign and scaled a Route 22 billboard during the Monday morning rush hour. Im just a real guy who is trying to be heard by someone in government, Giammarinaro told a lehighvalleylive.com reporter in a phone interview from his perch near the highway. I didnt know what else to do. At the time, he had to yell to be heard over the roar of passing traffic in the background. Police were called at 7:31 a.m. for the man refusing to come down off the Greater Lehigh Valley Relators billboard off Route 22 West, between the Route 191 and Route 33 interchanges. In black paint the sign his said Gov. Wolf has no ears. 54 calls - 6 letters 0 replies. Giammarinaro said hes tried to speak to the governor for almost two years, but paused when COVID-19 broke out. He estimated hes made hundreds of calls total, but the figure wouldnt fit on the sign so he went with the number of calls hes made in the past four months. I have an idea that could probably balance the budget in Pennsylvania, donate millions and millions to charity, and make myself wealthy, he said. The idea has to do with legalizing marijuana, but Giammarinaro said he doesnt have inside connections to make it happen. I need the states the blessing, he said. Giammarinaro said hes 52 years old and married with two responsible kids. Im not some knucklehead. I have a good head on my shoulders, he said. How do I get someone to listen to me?...This is going to happen. As God as my witness. If I could just sit down with someone....I cant be heard. I didnt know what else to do." Pennsylvania State Police initially responded, but a state police spokesman said the investigation was transferred to Bethlehem Township police after it was determined the sign sits in their jurisdiction. Township police and the fire department were still at the sign at 9 a.m. and could not be reached for details. Giammarinaro said hes an ironworker, and was wearing a harness and other safety equipment. Ill stay up here - Ill stay up here as long as I have to, he said. By 9:39 a.m., Giammarinaro and his sign were back on the ground. He said he finally came down because he didnt want anyone to get hurt, including himself, according to a lehighvalleylive.com photographer at the scene. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Melbourne's coronavirus restrictions may not be lifted on October 19 as planned despite plummeting case numbers, in news that has sparked withering attacks on Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews. Mr Andrews announced the city would progress to Step Three of its roadmap out of lockdown if there was a 14-day average of less than five cases per day by October 19. But Victoria's Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton expressed doubts on Monday over whether Melbourne would achieve that. 'My gut feelit will be a line ball. Look, it's not a certain one way or the other,' he said on Monday. Victoria's Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton expressed doubts over whether Melbourne is on track to ease restrictions by mid-October Comedian Dave Hughes has since criticised Mr Andrews and Prof Sutton over their threat to 'keep Melburnians stuck at home' until next year. Pictured with wife Holly Prof Sutton said easing restrictions too soon would risk losing control over 'mystery cases'. 'We'd have to see exactly where we were at that time, including the trend,' he said. 'Because if all five cases are in the first week of that fortnight and we have seven or eight or nine days prior to the 19th that has absolutely no mystery cases, that's a positive.' Prof Sutton also warned the 5km limit on household travelling could remain in place even if other measures are relaxed. 'We will examine it at the point when we are there,' he said. 'We will see where the outbreaks transmission is coming from and reflect on the 5km rule with respect to that and the overall picture.' Comedian Dave Hughes has since criticised Mr Andrews and Prof Sutton over their threat to 'keep Melburnians stuck at home' until next year. Hughes said Mr Andrews and Prof Sutton were making a knee-jerk reaction after news footage of crowds flocking to beachside St. Kilda on Friday, and policy should not be based upon such isolated incidents. Prof Sutton said of the footage: 'Dont risk everything. What we can hold back now means a truly normal summer. Please - Hold. The. Line.' Mr Andrews also pleaded with Victorians in the wake of the footage, urging 'we are so close'. Mr Andrews announced in the city would progress to Step Three of its roadmap out of lockdown if there was a 14-day average of less than five cases per day by October 19 'Lets not any of us do anything that might undermine the very positive numbers, the very strong performance we have seen in recent days. The trend is with us, the numbers are coming down, once we get them low, we can keep them low and we can open up again,' he said. 'And if you want to spend summer at the beach, then (summer) will be time to do that. If we dont do anything silly or anything selfish right now.' Hughes was irritated that a single live cross on the TV news could influence the decision as to when to ease the lockdown. 'So ... reporter does Friday night cross on rarely warm St Kilda beach in which he gathers excited drunken people around him, yells "How good is this?" and they perform on cue, and now (Mr Andrews and Mr Sutton) threaten to keep all Melburnians stuck at home for rest of year?' Hughes tweeted. The Seven reporter Paul Dowsley denied that he was encouraging people to play up to the cameras. 'I said how good is this WARMTH. And I gathered no-one. They were there maskless in large groups long before I arrived and long after I left. Somehow I convinced them to break the law for hours?' Mr Dowsley tweeted. The new cases take Melbourne's 14-day average to 11.6, with the rate needing to be less than five, and fewer than five mystery cases for restrictions to further ease on October 19 Meanwhile, Member for Brighton James Newbury on Monday launched an extraordinary attack on Mr Andrews on Twitter accusing the premier of 'gaslighting' - a form of psychological manipulation. '(Daniel Andrews) keeps breaking promises to ease restrictions, yet blames us for the reversal. Now, he won't commit to his 19 October date and is threatening to keep the 5km rule - blaming our behaviour. Daniel is a manipulative gaslighter,' he wrote. Victoria recorded nine new cases on Monday but for the first time in almost a month the state did not suffer any coronavirus deaths. The national death toll remains at 894. Member for Brighton MP James Newbury and comedian Dave Hughes both took to Twitter on Monday to blast the premier and chief health officer The new cases take Melbourne's 14-day average to 11.6, with the rate needing to be less than five, and fewer than five mystery cases for restrictions to further ease on October 19. Police patrolled St Kilda Beach after large groups gathered on Friday, raising concerns that such behaviour could trigger another outbreak. Mr Andrews warned he could be forced to extend the 5km travel bubble for metropolitan Melbourne if residents continue to hit the beach. 'I can't put a timeline on it but those rules serve a really important purpose and they'll be in place for as long as that purpose is relevant and proportionate the benefit is relevant and proportionate to the challenge we face,' he said. 'There will be a time when that (5km rule) can come off, but exactly when that is or it might be extended when that is we can't be certain now.' Three women sunbathe in their COVIDSafe bubbles at St Kilda on Saturday A number of residents have expressed Covid-19 concerns after a second large gathering was reported to gardai in Tullamore on Saturday evening. While gardai broke up a car meet of over 300 people at the Aldi carpark in Cloncollig, residents also phoned Tullamore Garda Station to alert them to a gathering of around 150 people on William Street/Colmcille Street in the centre of town. WATCH: Shocking footage as hundreds gather for 'car meet' in Offaly One resident estimated the crowd to be around 150 at 11.25pm on Saturday night, October 3, closing time for pubs in the town under public health regulations. A video seen by the Offaly Express shows people gathering in groups without masks and no social distancing being observed. One resident said the people were not dispersing at the time they witnessed the scene. The scene was reported to the Offaly Express out of concern over the potential for further restrictions. Gardai were notified about the gathering. When contacted by the Offaly Express on Sunday, gardai outlined their response to such incidents. A statement read: "An Garda Siochana continues to inspect Licensed Premises under Operation Navigation on an ongoing basis; An Garda Siochana will investigate alleged breaches or complaints where brought to our attention contemporaneously. "Citizens gathering in public places, social distancing, wearing of masks in public area and other such public health guidelines are not penal regulations. In respect of regulations which are not declared to be Penal Regulations under the Health Act 1947 as amended, and Public Health guidelines An Garda Siochana adopt the approach of the three Es which will see Gardai engage, educate and encourage, only," they continued. "The Covid-19 Pandemic remains a public health crisis and An Garda Siochana continues to appeal to all citizens to demonstrate personal and social responsibility to comply with Public Health Guidelines and Regulations in order to continue to save lives." The country is now facing the possibility of the highest level 5 lockdown under the government's Living with Covid-19 plan. NPHET recommended the severe action at the weekend. READ NEXT: NPHET recommends entire country goes to LEVEL 5 lockdown America, weve been here before you. We know what it is like to have a countrys leader downplay the virus, ignore safety measures inside their work space, assume health restrictions are for the little people, and then become ill. We know what its like to be pitched into fearful political uncertainties; whos making the decisions in a crisis, and what are the consequences for us if a leader is incapacitated? President Trump could have drawn some lessons in caution from Boris Johnsons hospitalization this spring. Instead we have history repeating itself, on a short-circuiting loop, but in both these cases, far too grimly to be described as farce. Just like Mr. Trump, a complacent Mr. Johnson failed to treat the virus with the seriousness it required from the start. As the virus was spreading across the world in February, with scientists desperately warning of its dangers, and Italy already in a state of emergency, Mr. Johnson did virtually nothing. His governments crisis committee met several times to discuss the threat, but he didnt bother turning up. Instead he disappeared from public view for at least 10 days, much of it on holiday with his pregnant girlfriend. Once Mr. Johnson did address the problem, he confused the public by not taking his own governments official advice. On March 3, just as the pandemic was taking off in Britain, Italian cities were in lockdown and their hospitals overwhelmed, he advised the nation to start obsessively washing their hands. At the same press conference, he boasted cheerfully that he had been shaking hands at a hospital containing Covid patients days before, that he was proud to say he continued to shake hands, and that everyone should feel free to make up their own minds about what to do. Senator Pat Toomey is expected to announce Monday that he will not run for reelection when his term expires in 2022. The Pennsylvania Republican has already informed Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of his decision, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. Toomey had also been considering a run for governor but has opted against that as well, surprising some Pennsylvania Republicans. The justification for the timing of his announcement, just weeks before the presidential election, was not immediately clear. Both Toomeys initial election in 2010 and his reelection in 2016 were tight races. The two-term conservative, 58, is currently the only Republican holding statewide office, not counting judges. His decision leaves Republicans without clear candidates to replace him in the senate and to run for governor. Among potential Republican candidates thought to be considering running for higher office in Pennsylvania are Jeff Bartos, a real estate developer and former candidate for lieutenant governor, Representative Mike Kelly, and former Representatives Ryan Costello and Charlie Dent. Possible Democratic candidates include Democratic Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, State Treasurer Joe Torsella, Attorney General Josh Shapiro, and Representative Conor Lamb. Toomey, a spending hawk who has consistently advocated lower taxes and less regulation, has reliably voted with McConnell and in favor of President Trumps objectives despite expressing trepidation about some of Trumps decisions, prompting the president to brand him a RINO or Republican in Name Only. Before running for Senate, Toomey was a U.S. representative from 1999 to 2005. More from National Review A new study by Tel Aviv University and the Israel Antiquities Authority indicates that a workshop for smelting copper ore once operated in the Neveh Noy neighborhood of Beer Sheva, the capital of the Negev Desert. The study, conducted over several years, began in 2017 in Beer Sheva when the workshop was first uncovered during an Israel Antiquities Authority emergency archeological excavation to safeguard threatened antiquities. The new study also shows that the site may have made the first use in the world of a revolutionary apparatus: the furnace. The study was conducted by Prof. Erez Ben-Yosef, Dana Ackerfeld, and Omri Yagel of the Jacob M. Alkow Department of Archeology and Ancient Near Eastern Civilizations at Tel Aviv University, in conjunction with Dr. Yael Abadi-Reiss, Talia Abulafia, and Dmitry Yegorov of the Israel Antiquities Authority and Dr. Yehudit Harlavan of the Geological Survey of Israel. The results of the study were published online on September 25, 2020, in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports. According to Ms. Abulafia, Director of the excavation on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority, "The excavation revealed evidence for domestic production from the Chalcolithic period, about 6,500 years ago. The surprising finds include a small workshop for smelting copper with shards of a furnace -- a small installation made of tin in which copper ore was smelted -- as well as a lot of copper slag." Although metalworking was already in evidence in the the Chalcolithic period, the tools used were still made of stone. (The word "chalcolithic" itself is a combination of the Greek words for "copper" and "stone.") An analysis of the isotopes of ore remnants in the furnace shards show that the raw ore was brought to Neveh Noy neighborhood from Wadi Faynan, located in present-day Jordan, a distance of more than 100 kilometers from Beer Sheva. During the Chalcolithic period, when copper was first refined, the process was made far from the mines, unlike the prevalent historical model by which furnaces were built near the mines for both practical and economic reasons. The scientists hypothesize that the reason was the preservation of the technological secret. "It's important to understand that the refining of copper was the high-tech of that period. There was no technology more sophisticated than that in the whole of the ancient world," Prof. Ben-Yosef says. "Tossing lumps of ore into a fire will get you nowhere. You need certain knowledge for building special furnaces that can reach very high temperatures while maintaining low levels of oxygen." Prof. Ben-Yosef notes that the archeology of the land of Israel shows evidence of the Ghassulian culture. The culture was named for Tulaylat al-Ghassul, the archeological site in Jordan where the culture was first identified. This culture, which spanned the region from the Beer Sheva Valley to present-day southern Lebanon, was unusual for its artistic achievements and ritual objects, as evidenced by the copper objects discovered at Nahal Mishmar and now on display at the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. According to Prof. Ben-Yosef, the people who lived in the area of the copper mines traded with members of the Ghassulian culture from Beer Sheva and sold them the ore, but they were themselves incapable of reproducing the technology. Even among the Ghassulian settlements along Wadi Beer Sheva, copper was refined by experts in special workshops. A chemical analysis of remnants indicates that every workshop had its own special "recipe" which it did not share with its competitors. It would seem that, in that period, Wadi Beer Sheva was filled with water year-round, making the location convenient for smelting copper where the furnaces and other apparatus were made of clay. Prof. Ben-Yosef further notes that, even within Chalcolithic settlements that possessed both stone and copper implements, the secret of the gleaming metal was held by the very few members of an elite. "At the beginning of the metallurgical revolution, the secret of metalworking was kept by guilds of experts. All over the world, we see metalworkers' quarters within Chalcolithic settlements, like the neighborhood we found in Beer Sheva." The study discusses the question of the extent to which this society was hierarchical or socially stratified, as society was not yet urbanized. The scientists feel that the findings from Neveh Noy strengthen the hypothesis of social stratification. Society seems to have consisted of a clearly defined elite possessing expertise and professional secrets, which preserved its power by being the exclusive source for the shiny copper. The copper objects were not made to be used, instead serving some ritual purpose and thus possessing symbolic value. The copper axe, for example, wasn't used as an axe. It was an artistic and/or cultic object modeled along the lines of a stone axe. The copper objects were probably used in rituals while the everyday objects in use continued to be of stone. "At the first stage of humankind's copper production, crucibles rather than furnaces were used," says Prof. Ben-Yosef. "This small pottery vessel, which looks like a flower pot, is made of clay. It was a type of charcoal-based mobile furnace. Here, at the Neveh Noy workshop that the Israel Antiquities Authority uncovered, we show that the technology was based on real furnaces. This provides very early evidence for the use of furnaces in metallurgy and it raises the possibility that the furnace was invented in this region. "It's also possible that the furnace was invented elsewhere, directly from crucible-based metallurgy, because some scientists view early furnaces as no more than large crucibles buried in the ground," Prof. Ben-Yosef continues. "The debate will only be settled by future discoveries, but there is no doubt that ancient Beer Sheva played an important role in advancing the global metal revolution and that in the fifth millennium BCE the city was a technological powerhouse for this whole region." ### More than 50 children were abducted or approached in Northern Ireland during an 18-month period, it can be revealed. Six children were snatched by a parent, while 50 other incidents were attributed to others. In 14 cases the victims were under the age of 10. Ten were aged 15. The incidents took place between January 2019 and June this year and emerged in a Freedom of Information request. The majority of cases took place in the Derry and Strabane policing district (18), followed by 10 abductions in Belfast and seven in Newry, Mourne and Down. Of the 56 cases probed by the PSNI, only 24 investigations led to charges. There was no suspect found in 18 cases. Eleven of the investigations faced difficulties due to the level of evidence, and three remain under investigation. Detective Superintendent Rowan Moore said the public should have confidence in the PSNI's ability on these matters. He said: "While 56 abductions does seem like quite a large number, our working definition of that crime includes incidents where there is no physical contact between the perpetrator and the victim, such as suspicious and spontaneous approaches to children. "We use specialist techniques to provide a secure and comfortable environment for vulnerable victims to provide an account of what happened. We obviously want to try and catch those responsible as any attempt to abduct a child can be extremely distressing for the child, their family and the wider community." Children's Commissioner Koulla Yiasouma said the figures were worrying and required interrogation. "Offences that place children at risk are among the most serious in our society and we should always seek to improve how we work together to protect children," she said. "A key challenge in dealing with all crimes against children is to make sure they work in a child-centred way, to interview children and investigate reports, to gather evidence, make decisions about prosecutions and progress cases. "I continue to call for more action to ensure that where offences are reported, children are helped to give their best evidence. They must also be provided with any therapeutic support they may need and we must see real improvements in how cases are progressed through the justice system." Paris will close all its bars starting on Tuesday for two weeks as the city's coronavirus alert level is moved to maximum to combat rising case numbers. Restaurants and bistros that serve alcohol will be allowed to stay open, provided they register all guests on a track and trace system, maintain social distancing, and close no later than 10pm. Working from home should be prioritised 'now more than ever', Prime Minister Jean Castex said, while university lecture halls should be no more than half full. Paris will close all bars in the city from Tuesday for at least two weeks as it moves to the highest coronavirus alert level to combat soaring cases in the city (shown above) Bars will be banned from opening altogether, restaurants will be allowed to open no later than 10pm, and home working is being strongly encouraged (file image) It comes after Paris breached the maximum alert threshold of more than 250 infections per 100,000 people, with more than 30 per cent of intensive care beds reserved for coronavirus patients. The city breached the criteria last week, but officials had been waiting to see if the situation improved before going ahead with extra measures. Mr Castex announced on Sunday that extra measures would be needed, after the number of new cases kept rising. According to government data, there were 1,155 new cases of coronavirus in Paris on October 1, the most recent data to be made public. That is an increase on the 1,110 cases reported the day previously, and a significant increase from the 705 cases reported on September 1. It also comes after the city of Marseille, which is at the centre of a second wave of coronavirus in the south of France, went into a similar lockdown last week. France is suffering a second wave of coronavirus cases that has seen infection totals grow steadily since the country began reopening its economy Despite cases soaring deaths have not followed suit - however, the country is reporting a rise in hospital admissions and pressure on intensive care beds More details about the Paris lockdown, which will also apply in three departments around the city, will be announced by mayor Anne Hildalgo on Monday. 'These measures, indispensable in the fight to curb the virus' spread, will apply to Paris and the three departments immediately surrounding it, for a duration of two weeks,' an announcement published on Sunday said. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin admitted that the new measures would be difficult for Parisians, but insisted that they were needed to keep people safe. 'We are French, we love to drink, to eat, to live, to smile and to kiss each other,' he told French TV channel LCI. France reported 12,565 new cases of coronavirus on Sunday, along with 32 new deaths from the virus. At a rally days before the first Presidential debate, Donald Trump delighted supporters by ridiculing his opponent Joe Biden for wearing a face mask in public: 'What the hell did he spend all that money on the plastic surgery if he's going to cover it up?' Earlier, the President said of the Democrats' candidate: 'Every time you see him, he's got a mask. He could be speaking 200 feet away and he shows up with the biggest mask I've ever seen.' So Trump's political opponents see his rush to hospital with Covid-19 as karma. And they point to an event at the White House a week before he was diagnosed. At a rally days before the first Presidential debate, Donald Trump delighted supporters by ridiculing his opponent Joe Biden for wearing a face mask in public: 'What the hell did he spend all that money on the plastic surgery if he's going to cover it up?', writes DOMINIC LAWSON Trump's political opponents see his rush to hospital with Covid-19 as karma. And they point to an event at the White House a week before he was diagnosed Photos of the 150-strong gathering (a celebration of the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett as a Supreme Court Justice) show many of the President's advisers hugger-mugger with each other, maskless a number of whom have since tested positive for the virus. As one American commentator wrote: 'That gathering, as videos and photos of it make clear, violated so many of the recommendations that everyone else has been told to adopt.' Protect That observation is familiar to us in the UK, most extraordinarily in the case of the Scottish MP Margaret Ferrier. In May, she had demanded that the Prime Minister's adviser Dominic Cummings be sacked for driving with his wife and child from London to isolate in Durham after they had been afflicted with Covid-like symptoms. Yet Ferrier, even after being told she had tested positive for coronavirus, travelled by public transport all the way from London to Scotland: and she is refusing to resign as an MP. Scottish MP Margaret Ferrier (pictured) travelled by public transport all the way from London to Scotland even after being told she had tested positive for coronavirus Last week, we also saw pictures of the Prime Minister's father, Stanley Johnson, not wearing a mask in a shop, and of Jeremy Corbyn enjoying a dinner with eight other companions at a friend's home in breach of the so-called 'rule of six' for social gatherings in homes. I felt some sympathy for the former Labour leader: there's something horribly sneaky in being shopped in such a way. But it is inevitable that with so many of the Government's rules involving constraints on behaviour in the home, there will be many others who will be dobbed in by neighbours for actual or suspected breaches. The sense that we are being turned into a nation of snoops is not a pleasant one. Dr Jennie Harries previously said mask-wearing was not a good idea On the other hand, it's understandable that if one family is diligently observing all the rules, however much disruption it causes to the normal pattern of their lives, they will deeply resent those who behave as if they are above the law a law which is (however inconsistently or ineffectually) designed to protect the community as a whole from the dangers of infection. In the case of masks, the inconsistencies have been legion. On March 12, when Covid infections were growing at the fastest rate we have experienced, Dr Jenny Harries, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, declared that the wearing of masks or any other form of face-covering was 'not a good idea... you can actually trap the virus in the mask and start breathing it in'. By April, even after Germany's public health institute recommended that everyone should wear masks when in public, Professor Jonathan Van-Tam, also a Deputy Chief Medical Officer, said: 'There is no evidence that the general wearing of face masks by the public who are well affects the spread of the disease in our society.' The trouble is that, unlike the flu, people can be infected with coronavirus but without suffering any symptoms, so can spread it quite obliviously. This realisation along with the results of tests which showed that face masks greatly reduce the extent to which droplets are projected, not to mention the simple observation that Far Eastern countries where masks are habitually worn have experienced significantly lower infection rates led to the current policy of mandatory face coverings in enclosed public spaces such as shops and while travelling on public transport. Warning There's no doubt that it's an unpleasant obligation to keep a mask on throughout a long train journey. I hated having to do it on the five-and-a-half-hour trip from London to Penzance for our holiday. But when I moaned about it, my elder daughter, who works for the NHS, said: 'Now you have some idea what it's like having to wear a tight surgical one throughout your working day' which put me in my place. That was back in August, and the whole business has become much more insistent and penal since then. At the London mainline stations there are huge posters warning that those not wearing a face covering ('unless you are exempt') could be penalised with a fine of up to 3,200. At the London mainline stations there are huge posters warning that those not wearing a face covering ('unless you are exempt') could be penalised with a fine of up to 3,200 I was surprised when my wife told me that on her recent train trip from our home in East Sussex to London, the only person in the carriage she noticed not wearing a mask was a man wearing the uniform of Southeastern Railways, writes DOMINIC LAWSON So I was surprised when my wife told me that on her recent train trip from our home in East Sussex to London, the only person in the carriage she noticed not wearing a mask was a man wearing the uniform of Southeastern Railways. Last week, I made the same journey. From the start, there were recorded announcements warning passengers to wear face masks, and that 'the Transport Police' were ready to take action if anyone was found to be breaching the rule. I was in the front carriage, and thus could see clearly when two staff members emerged from the driver's compartment... not wearing masks. I then watched as they sat down a few tables away from me. No masks appeared, and they chatted away to each other even as the 'mask warnings' continued intermittently in recorded announcements and in a liquid crystal written display on a continual loop above their heads. Hypocrisy I don't consider myself a busybody; but I found the hypocrisy of this increasingly irksome. So I got up from my seat and suggested to the two railwaymen that perhaps they should follow the instructions given to their passengers and consider setting an example. This did not go down well. The larger of them, a middle aged and somewhat overweight chap, declared he was 'exempt'and became irate when I asked if he could provide a document in evidence of that. When I asked his colleague if he, too, was 'exempt', he quietly admitted he wasn't. Then the larger one, getting a little red in the face, said: 'You wouldn't challenge a disabled person like this.' Last week, we also saw pictures of the Prime Minister's father, Stanley Johnson, not wearing a mask in a shop When I replied that I didn't see how he could know that, he told me I was 'a stupid, ignorant pig' and that if I didn't return to my seat, he would have me 'thrown off the train at the next station.' I decided not to test him on this. Although I did notice that when he got off the train, two stops later, he immediately put on a mask. But by then he was in full view of large numbers of people, not to mention station security cameras. It turns out that this is not unique to some members of staff on the London to Hastings line: after mentioning the incident to a friend, he sent me a number of tweets from people on other lines who had taken pictures on their smartphone of travelling staff not wearing the masks they tell the rest of us to put on, or else. Another friend said: 'It's the management's fault. They are terrified of the rail unions, and so would never dare to challenge them on this.' Whatever the reason, it only adds to the impression the public have that those involved in enforcing the rules seem to think that they have some special immunity and don't need to bother (even if it risks the health of others). To be fair to Donald Trump, at least he isn't a hypocrite: he always made fun of mask-wearing. But perhaps he'll be less inclined to do so in future. CHICAGO, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Luxury Portfolio International -- the global network comprising more than 200 leading high-end real estate brokerages and the luxury marketing division of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World -- has released the latest issue of its eponymous publication, Luxury Portfolio International magazine. Now on newsstands, the issue (Volume 10: No. 2) delves into the pandemic's impact on high-end real estate, why the market continues to thrive, and how the rapidly evolving concept of home has reshaped how our households function and what they represent in our day-to-day lives. "When we set out to craft the content for this newest edition of LPI magazine, now just over half a year into the pandemic, there was a heightened level of importance as it pertained to the trends and first-hand narratives we wanted to underscore," said Michelle Walsh, Director of Marketing Services for LPI and the magazine's editor-in-chief. "In the face of these extraordinary times, our mission has been to provide important market insights -- as well as escapism from the everyday. We're proud to have exceeded all expectations with this issue." LPI magazine -- which has a global readership of more than 200,000 HNWI's -- is distributed domestically through Barnes & Noble and shipped to top LPI member clients in more than 70 countries. This latest installment comprises a range of features, including tips for creating a work "haven" at home and design trends and amenities to watch in the next decade. An in-depth look into the buying patterns of wealthy millennials and their ever-increasing impact on the prime property market includes statistics and commentary from industry experts, as well as insights into the style and location preferences of these consumers. The magazine also contains an exclusive Q&A-style interview with the premier wealth manager of the NBA, NFL, PGA and MLB elite, Joe McLean (a.k.a. the "Money Whisperer), who offers advice for navigating the market's current ups and downs in the face of COVID-19 and ways to achieve long-term financial success. The magazine's cover furthermore showcases "Casa Garita" -- a historic hacienda in San Miguel De Allende, Mexico, listed with LPI Member CDR Bienes Raices San Miguel. The exquisite, meticulously renovated U.S. $3.2 million manse is a showplace estate, offering five bedrooms, four baths, and interiors by renowned architect Rachel Horn. The accompanying feature article details its painstaking renovation, as well as why the property is so representative of what high-net-worth-individuals are craving in today's market: sprawling interiors, airy living spaces, a direct connection to nature, and tranquil surroundings. Additional articles in the magazine include a multi-page spread on LPI properties formerly owned by high-profile figures, such as the former Los Angeles estate of Prince (and Elizabeth Taylor), a guide to wandering the world without leaving the living room, and hand-picked subscription boxes and services to help enhance one's home life. View the magazine's digital edition or find it on luxuryportfolio.com, where you can also request a print copy. ABOUT LUXURY PORTFOLIO INTERNATIONAL (LPI) LPI (luxuryportfolio.com) is the luxury marketing division of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, the largest global network of premier locally branded firms dominated by many of the world's most powerful, independent luxury brands. LPI attracts a global audience of visitors from over 200 countries/territories every month and markets more than 50,000 luxury homes annually. Well Connected. Contact: [email protected] CONTACT: Israel Kreps Caroline Underwood [email protected] [email protected] 305.663.3543 x312 Kreps DeMaria PR & Marketing SOURCE Luxury Portfolio International After United States President Donald Trump announced he was positive for the coronavirus, he was immediately hospitalized to be treated. However, on Saturday, his physician gave him a shot of steroids after the U.S. president suffered a drop in oxygen levels. During a news conference on Sunday, Dr Sean Conley, President Trump's physician, said the Republican leader was transferred to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after his announcement of infection with the virus. Trump's battle with the coronavirus The president's medical team said that the U.S. leader's oxygen levels stabilized at 98 percent. Medical experts said that blood oxygen saturation is a crucial factor in determining the severity of the COVID-19 infection. A reading between 95 and 100 is considered normal, while a drop below 90 is a cause for concern. According to Fox News, a specialist in pulmonary critical care, Dr. Brian Garibaldi, said that on Saturday, President Trump was given a second dose of the experimental drug remdesivir and a first dose of Dexamethasone and that he was not showing any adverse side effects that could be seen. Conley said on Saturday that Trump's condition had entered phase 2. During a video statement released on Saturday, Trump, who was in Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, told the people that he was starting to feel better and noted that the next few days would be critical to his health. The COVID-19 virus is known to attack an individual's immune system, and the human body makes a crucial decision between fighting the virus with precision or face potentially fatal consequences. An infectious disease specialist, Dr. William Schaffner of the Vanderbilt University, said that patients infected with the coronavirus could look well for a few days before quickly showing severe symptoms and feeling much worse. Also Read: Pres. Donald Trump's Condition Raises Concerns After COVID-19 Diagnosis, Dropping Blood Oxygen Levels Signs of getting worse The medical expert added that rapid deterioration could happen when the body unsuccessfully uses its immune system to try and fight the virus, causing collateral damage due to not being able to pinpoint the disease itself, as reported by USA Today. The physician-in-chief at Northwell Health, Dr. Thomas McGinn, said that the Dexamethasone is the most mysterious drug medical experts have used on the U.S. president. The drug is not commonly used unless an individual's health condition has begun growing worse. However, McGinn questioned the choices of the attending doctors and noted it could be a sign that the president's condition is worse than what is publicly revealed. He also wondered if the steps medical experts were using is because he was the president, and they wanted to beat the sickness quickly. According to The New York Times, a professor emergency medicine, Dr Esther Choo of the Oregon Health & Science University, said the doctors' statement released on Sunday showed that Trump's condition is no longer positive and that it was more than just simple caution due to being the president of the United States. Several medical experts also have another theory: that Trump is controlling his own medical care and is demanding intense treatment despite knowing the risks in an attempt to eradicate the virus from his body quickly. Related Article: Trump to Send Out 150 Million COVID-19 Rapid Tests as Democrats Propose $2.2 Trillion Relief Bill @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. With schools set to reopen in a graded manner on October 15 after a nearly seven-month break, their management teams will have to ensure that all areas and fixtures on the premises, including water tanks, kitchens, canteens, washrooms, storage areas, laboratories and libraries are disinfected thoroughly to protect staff and students from the coronavirus disease (Covid-19). Schools will also have to ensure the presence of trained health professional like a doctor or nurse on campus or available on call. Closed indoor spaces will require adequate air circulation. Schools will also have to form emergency response teams and hygiene inspection teams when they reopen, according to a standard operating protocol prepared by the Union education ministry and released on Monday. A distance of six feet has to be maintained between students, with one student per desk being the ideal. Classes can be held outdoors If the weather is pleasant. Schools will be strictly spitting-free zones. Schools have been given the option of calling in only a certain percentage of pupils at one time to avoid overcrowding. They have the option of holding extra shifts or tailor classes on the odd-even model. Schools will also work to communicate the safety measures to parents. Union education minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, who released the guidelines on the basis of which states can prepare their own protocols, said no assessments or tests should be conducted for up to two to three weeks of a school reopening. Organising functions and events has also been barred. Time tables will be staggered as will be the entry and exits of student. States and UTs to prepare their own SOP regarding health and safety precaution for reopening of schools based on the SOP to be issued by the department of school education and literacy of the education ministry. States/UTs may adopt or adapt the SOP as per local context and requirements, said Pokhriyal. Educational institutions have been closed since March, when a nationwide lockdown was put in place to control the spread of the pandemic that has infected millions across the world and claimed more than one million lives so far. The government has allowed states and Union territories to open educational facilities in a graded manner starting on October 15; in Delhi, all schools will be closed for the rest of the month. Jyoti Arora, principal of Mount Abu Public School in New Delhis Rohini, said: The SOPs are simple and easy to implement. Many schools, including ours, have already decided to follow all these norms once the schools will reopen in Delhi. We will have to create awareness among students and parents about the importance of masks, sanitisers and social distancing so that all these guidelines can be implemented without any hurdle once the schools reopen. The education ministry guidelines strongly emphasise the use of masks -- be it in classrooms or in common areas like canteens, libraries or labs.Even in the canteen, students have to keep a mask on while the food is being served and can remove it only when eating or drinking, an official said on condition of anonymity. Circles will be marked on the ground at drinking water and hand washing facilities to ensure distancing. No outside vendor should be allowed to sell any eatables inside the school premises or at the entry gate/point. Thermal screening of students may be done by the bus conductor at the time of their boarding the bus. Sanitization of school transport on a regular basis at least twice a day once before children board the transport and once after -- has been suggested. Private cabs or carpooling have to be discouraged as far as possible. For air conditioning within the school, Central Public Works Department norms shall be followed, which prescribe a temperature setting in the range of 24-30C, relative humidity in the range of 40-70% and provision for intake of fresh air and cross-ventilation. The problem is not opening of schools, the real challenge will be to ensure students follow Covid-19-appropriate behaviour, especially when you see adults around taking preventive measures too casually. Also, there is enough evidence to suggest that there is greater risk of passing on the infection in closed air-conditioned spaces. Kids themselves may not be very sick but once they come back home they might pass it on to the more vulnerable population such as their grandparents, said Dr JS Bhasin, head of the paediatrics department at BLK Hospital in Delhi. The guidelines also stress the need to sensitize students and staff, including those at hostels, on the need for social distancing. The guidelines allow for changes in the academic plan, particularly those relating to vacations and exams, in the Covid-19-affected year. Attendance requirements will be flexible and students who want to continue online learning can do so. Regular health check-ups should be organized. Appropriate protocols have to be followed in case an infection is detected. The ministry has also suggested that teachers discuss with their students learning goals and the roadmap and methods they would employ to teach the curriculum. The guidelines also direct schools to focus on the needs of students from vulnerable sections like the homeless or migrants. The norms allow the use of diverse teaching resources, including volunteers. Steps have also been suggested to ensure that students maintain sound emotional health. A gigantic spider web large enough to catch human prey was discovered in a forest near Springfield, Mo. The web was discovered and photographed by an employee of the Missouri Department of Conservation, who posted the picture on social media and promptly caused the Internet to freak out. The eight-legged artist that produced the disturbingly large work is a type of spider known as a spotted orbweaver. According to the departments website, a spotted orbweaver is a type of barn spider whose webs tend to pop up most commonly around the late summer and fall. Theyre typically half an inch long (legs not included), sporting an upside-down spruce tree pattern on their abdomen. ORBWEAVER SPIDERWEB: MDC Media Specialist Francis Skalicky snapped a pic of the orbweaver's spiderweb while out on a... Posted by Missouri Dept. of Conservation on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 The human-sized orbweaver spider web that was snapped by Francis Skalicky was particularly noticeable due to the fact it spanned between two trees and looked just big enough for a hapless biped to get stuck in it. While orbweavers tend to mainly keep Missouris fly population in check, many a social media user that viewed the picture were a bit skeptical of the spiders intentions. Nopethis is natures Do Not Enter sign, said one Facebook commenter. Turn around and live another day! Nothing says 'spooky season' like a human-sized spiderweb The Weather Network (@weathernetwork) October 4, 2020 Others who appeared to have less of an arachnophobia approached the picture with more of a sense of humor. These spiders here trying to get free satellite signal, another Facebook commenter quipped. Even they dont want to pay for cable. Luckily, the human population in Missouri has nothing to worry about regarding orbweavers; they may be creepy-looking, but theyre generally harmless. Regardless, keep a sharp eye should you be in the Springfield areaits always better to be safe than sorry. Fox News star Jesse Watters is expecting a baby boy with his new wife Emma DiGiovine, just 10 months after tying the knot, sources close to the couple exclusively told DailyMail.com. This will be Watters' third child, sharing twin daughters with ex wife Noelle, who filed for divorce in October 2018. The 42-year-old had admitted to cheating on Noelle with Emma, 28, who worked as an associate producer on his show Watters' World. Watters fessed up to his bosses at Fox about the affair shortly after Noelle filed for divorce. Emma was transferred to work for The Ingraham Angle, but she and Watters continued to date and married in a star-studded ceremony in December 2019. Watters confirmed DailyMail.com's scoop while co-hosting The Five on Monday evening, telling his colleagues the happy news and revealed the baby's gender by having them cut into a cupcake that had blue filling. Soon after, Emma took to social media to celebrate too, revealing they are expecting their baby boy to arrive in Spring 2021, adding: 'The news is out! We are expecting a baby boy this spring! We are so excited!! Thank you so much for all the well wishes.' Fox News star Jesse Watters is expecting a baby boy with his new wife Emma DiGiovine, just 10 months after tying the knot, sources close to the couple exclusively told DailyMail.com Watters confirmed DailyMail.com's scoop while co-hosting The Five on Monday evening, telling his colleagues the happy news and revealed the baby's gender by having them cut into a cupcake that had blue filling This will be Watters' third child, sharing twin daughters with ex wife Noelle, who filed for divorce in October 2018 SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT! Emma and I have a baby on the way! pic.twitter.com/hmkuDhCYvC Jesse Watters (@JesseBWatters) October 5, 2020 Special guests at Watters' wedding included Donald Trump Jr, Kimberly Guilfoyle, and Eric and Lara Trump. Kelly Dodd, a cast member from The Real Housewives of Orange County, had taken to her Instagram on December 30 to share photos from the wedding in Naples, Florida. 'Beautiful wedding with an impressive guest list,' Dodd said in the post. The nuptials came just nine months after Watters' divorce from Noelle was finalized. Watters married Noelle Inguagiato in 2009. They also met on the job at Fox News. He was working for Bill O'Reilly's show and she worked for the advertising and promotions department and was the host of a web show called iMag Style. In 2011, the couple had a pair of twin daughters Ellie and Sophie. Noelle never returned from maternity leave, while Watters' star rose at Fox News. According to her LinkedIn profile, Emma became Watters' associate producer in June 2016, when his segment was still part of O'Reilly's show. Emma appears to have a close relationship with Watters' daughters, frequently seen in social media pictures hugging the girls. Watters is said to be a favorite cable news personality of President Donald Trump, seen visiting the White House and also at dinner with the President Soon after, Emma took to social media to celebrate too, revealing they are expecting their baby boy to arrive in Spring 2021, adding: 'The news is out! We are expecting a baby boy this spring! We are so excited!! Thank you so much for all the well wishes' The nuptials came just nine months after Watters' divorce with Noelle was finalized Emma appears to have a close relationship with Watters' daughters, frequently seen in social media pictures hugging the girls Watters is the host of his show Watters' World, which airs on Saturdays, and is also co-host of The Five. He got his start at the network in 2002 as a production assistant. Known for his brash, macho and sometimes obnoxious style, Watters hosted a segment on the O'Reilly Factor that combined man-on-the street with ambush journalism. Watters' humorous approach fell flat at times, such as in an October 2016 segment he filmed in New York City's Chinatown. It was panned as 'racist' after he wandered the streets asking locals if they knew karate and how often their watches were stolen. The segment, Watters' World, was spun out into a weekly show in January 2017. It airs at 8pm on Saturdays, combining humor and political news in a fresh slant aimed at a younger audience. When O'Reilly was ousted from the network in April 2017, over revelations that he'd secretly settled numerous sexual harassment suits, Watters also replaced Eric Bolling on The Five. Bolling himself was ousted in September over sexual harassment allegations. Watters is said to be a favorite cable news personality of President Donald Trump, seen visiting the White House and also at dinner with the President. Trump asked Watters and former aide Sebastian Gorka to dinner at the White House because 'he couldnt get enough of them on TV', one source told the Daily Beast. Trump even signed the menu, which Watters tweeted a picture of. It read: 'To Jesse you are great!' On his weekly prime-time Fox News channel program yesterday evening, tireless conservative talk show host and bestselling author Mark Levin summarized the challenge that the nation faces in Election 2020 in four short weeks. The guest on Life, Liberty & Levin (8 P.M. E.T./P.T.) was Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), who discussed his new book One Vote Away: How a Single Supreme Court Seat Can Change History and other topics of current relevance. The program was recorded last Thursday before it was announced that President Trump had tested positive for COVID-19. Levin took the last two minutes of the program to lay it out in his usual concise, articulate, and compelling way the enormousness of the importance of the coming election. In 353 words, it was a stirring clarion call to patriots who want to save America. I posted a video clip of Levin's comments at a tweet that can be viewed by everyone even without a Twitter account. Screen shot from Life, Liberty & Levin Fox News Channel Oct. 3, 2020. With a sense of extreme urgency and rising emotion, Levin laid out his argument. This is our country. This is our election. Everything's on the table here. The Democrats want to change this country. They want to turn it into a post-constitutional, post-republican type of society. Bernie Sanders's agenda is on the table. They're telling us they're telling us what they are going to do, they are not hiding it from us. They're going to burn down the Supreme Court by packing it. This was tried before; it was denounced before. They're going to do it! They're going to add four Democrat Senators to the Senate. Why? Because they're going to have the power to do it. They are going to change the way we legislate so nothing can be slowed down nothing can stop them. They want to change our electoral process so only Democrats are represented in Congress, only Democrats have power to elect a president. Rural areas, suburban areas, the areas of the country that produce the food, that produce the energy will have no representation. This isn't a joke. This is as serious as a heart attack! This is what the election's about. The 1619 Project it exists to destroy the minds of our kids, to brainwash them against this country. You see what's happened in the streets. They don't even acknowledge the presidential nominee of the Democrat Party doesn't even acknowledge the existence of Antifa a Marxist, anarchist organization that says it wants to destroy our country and burns our streets. No this election is a big deal. If you're still on the fence, I don't know what kind of fence you're sitting on, and if you're leaning towards Joe Biden he says "I am the Democrat Party" he ain't kidding. If you're leaning towards Joe Biden, this is what you're going to get. There's a reason why he won't tell you whether or not he supports stuffing the Supreme Court because he does. There's a reason he won't tell you about the nominees that he has in mind because they're radicals. This election is crucial. Are you Thomas Paine? Are you Paul Revere? Now is the time to speak up. Peter Barry Chowka is a veteran journalist who writes about politics, media, popular culture, and health care for American Thinker and other publications. He also appears in the media, including recently as a contributor to BBC World News. Peter's website is http://peter.media. His YouTube channel is here. For updates on his work, follow Peter on Twitter at @pchowka. Subscribe to What Next on Apple Podcasts for the full episode. Over the weekend, reporters tried to get the answer to a seemingly simple question: How is the president doing? But since Donald Trumps COVID-19 diagnosis last week, weve learned how complicated the answer can be. On Saturday, Trump was said to be doing well. And then came reports hed required supplemental oxygen and had a fever, after which Trump himself started releasing videos to prove how well he was. Eventually, on Sunday afternoon, the president convinced his doctors to let him ride around Walter Reed Medical Center and wave to supporters outside. And still, if you were watching, you might have asked yourself: How is the president doing? Advertisement Because when it comes to claims about Trumps health, the first story hasnt ever been the real story. Its always been the sell. And as the president keeps selling the American people on his health, what we know is: Even if hes doing fantastically well, he has an extremely infectious virus and could be infecting others. Slates Will Saletan says this matches up with everything we know about Trump: He doesnt think about other people. He thinks only about himself. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While a lot of people are thinking about what happens if Trump takes a turn for the worse, Saletan has been thinking about what were left with if Trump recovers. I spoke with him on Sunday afternoon about what we really know about Trumps illness and what it means for the rest of us. Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity. Advertisement Advertisement Mary Harris: Can we just talk about this wild ride of misinformation weve been on? Will Saletan: From an ordinary persons point of view, you might think, OK, I dont want to hear from the political spin people in the White House. I dont want to hear from the Republican Party. I dont want to hear from Trump himself. I want to hear from doctors, because doctors tell the truth. Actually, it turns out that doctors can spin just like everyone else. And these doctors have. I shouldnt say doctors, plural. There is one doctor, Trumps physician, Sean Conley, who has given a couple of press conferences. And in the first one on Saturday, he spun. Theres not a nicer way to put it. He was asked directly several times whether Donald Trump had received oxygen, which is something one often needs due to COVID. Advertisement Advertisement And it can indicate more severe illness. Yes, it can. Conley was asked several times at the briefing at Walter Reed on Saturday whether Trump had received oxygenspecific questions about which days. And he hedges. Well, now it turns out that Trump did receive oxygen on Friday. So here you have a physician trying to avoid telling the truth in a way that we normally associate with political operatives. Right after the doctor says everythings looking great, the presidents in great shape, White House chief of staff Mark Meadows comes out and says, actually, it was a little touch-and-go on Friday, and were not quite out of the woods yet. A little bit later he says, but the president is great now. And its kind of this other layer of conflicting information where you just truly dont know who to believe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres really no one here you can trust and certainly not Mark Meadows, who, as you point out, has given different versions of events. One of the lessons of the last few days is that we are learning things in the media from unnamed sources first, and then the White House is coming forward and confirming what various members of the media have learned. For instance, we learned that the president was on oxygen and was unwell on Friday from unnamed sources who spoke to the Times. And then a day or so later, you get the confirmation. Advertisement Advertisement We get this from the media, and the media get it from the anonymous sources, who are, by the way, people in the White House or people around the president. And then we have the bizarre spectacle of Trump advisers denying information that theyve given on background. So these people are putting out information anonymously, then challenging the media to prove it. When you hear the Trump campaign and Trump talking about fake news and its anonymous sources, its them. Its their own people. And then they come out and they accuse us of fake news because our sources are anonymous. That is absolutely infuriating. Advertisement I dont get why the White House would do this? It just makes them seem incompetent. And Im just not sure about the strategy. Clearly, the president was unhappy with the idea that people knew that he was unwell, but I just dont understand what the play is here. Well, theyve gotten away with this for so long. The virus is the first thing that came along that just didnt care what Donald Trump said. Its just a virus. Its going to infect as many people as it can. It cant be cowed. It cant be spun. And it cant be snowed. Its not some foreign leader who can be bullied. Its not some Trump voter who doesnt care what the actual economic numbers are. It just infects and kills whoever it can kill. So, the Trump strategy of lying and of denying, which has worked on other issues, just isnt working on this one. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The death toll is unbelievable. Think back: Less than 3,000 people were killed on 9/11, and Trump said that that was an outrage and George W. Bush should be held accountable for it. We are over 200,000. We are in six figures of deaths. And Trump is still going, incredibly, with this strategy of dont pay attention to that. Hes asking people to basically ignore it. It stood out to me that were at this particular moment in the presidency where so many people who might have stood up and said, Hey, we need to do things differently are out and theyve been replaced by people who are yes men. And that means that in a situation like this, its just especially precarious. Advertisement Part of whats going on at this point is this gradual filtration effect. There used to be people who stood up to Trump. Famously, his former chief of staff, John Kelly, told the president that if he surrounded himself with yes men he would end up getting impeached. Well, that was proved quite prescient. He was impeached. So gradually, the people who stood up to him have been removed. And the people who remain are those who tell him what he wants to hear. Advertisement Advertisement Part of what is so grotesque about whats happened here with the infections is that it reflects the larger pattern of the Trump family thinking theyre immune, thinking they dont have to follow the same rules as other people. We have the debate in Cleveland on Tuesday where everyone was supposed to wear a mask. The Biden people at the debate wore a mask. The Trump family took their masks off. They thought that that wasnt necessary for them. The rules didnt apply to them. And they thought they were protected from that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement What I think is going to be the much larger scandal coming out of this is that on Thursday, after the White House knows that Hope Hicks, Trumps senior adviser who has been very physically close to Trump and others, has been diagnosed with COVID, they go to Bedminster and Trump sits around a table at a fundraiser with people who have no idea that he has just been with someone who has just been diagnosed with the virus. And he exposes those people to the risk of the virus without their knowledge and just tries to hide it from themto get money. To get money! He collects millions of dollars at this fundraiser in an extremely dangerous situation. He exempted himself from the rules so that he could go and collect that money. That, I believe, will be the largest scandal coming out of this. Advertisement How is catching the coronavirus good or bad for Trump politically? There is this idea that maybe it will generate sympathy and that could be part of reelecting him? Is that what you think too? I think there is some sympathy for him. As soon as his infection was announced, there were people on Twitter on the left celebrating, and there were people like me who said, dont celebrate. And Rachel Maddow saying, dont celebrate. And Joe Biden saying, dont celebrate. Its unseemly. Its inhumane to wish ill on anyone, including Donald Trump. Whats much more likely to hurt Donald Trump is that the focus of this conversation can shift, and I believe is shifting, from Donald Trumps health situation and how he got infected to how he endangered and possibly infected others. Thats a completely different conversation. Donald Trump, God willing, will get better and will be back on the campaign trail. And then we will be left with the question of the measures that the White House failed to take and the protocols they violated: what Trump knew, when he knew it, and why he proceeded to endanger others, apparently for the sake of large campaign contributions in the form of these fundraisers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And it keeps the coronavirus at the front of the news, which is something the president did not want. Can we just stand back and say how bizarre it is that we have anonymous quotes from people who work for Donald Trump talking about how they want to keep the coronavirus out of the news? A thing that has killed more than 200,000 Americans. And theyre just openly saying were trying to get people to ignore this. It is a grotesque campaign strategy. To some extent it has worked, but I think its running out. Their failure to control the virus, their attempt to wish it away and to hide it is failing. We should say that all presidents try to keep information about their health away from the public. What do you think it is that makes this circumstance different? Advertisement I cant think of another case where the medical threat to the president was a threat to other people as a result of his actions. To me, thats the fundamental distinction. Youre absolutely right that presidents have tried to hide health problems. I believe in every one of those cases it has simply been a matter where the president may have been incapacitated in some way when there may have been a national security risk and we werent told. They can say in those situations, Hey, we didnt want the Russians or the Chinese or some other nefarious enemy to know that for those five hours the vice president was in control or whatever it was. But this is different because I just keep thinking of Trump sitting around a table with these Republican donors in New Jersey, some of whom are in the high-risk group. This is not like the president has a cardiac problem. This is that the president has an infectious disease and hiding that is just the height of irresponsibility. Subscribe to What Next on Apple Podcasts Get more news from Mary Harris every weekday. Flight Radar24, a website tracking international flights, reported earlier in the day that a special Russian plane catering for high-ranking government and security officials has landed in Yerevan. The Armenian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Anna Naghdalian, did not deny the arrival of the Ilyushin-96 plane reportedly belonging to Russian President Vladimir Putins administration. Naghdalian told RFE/RLs Armenian service that high-level EEU meetings are always preceded by preparations done by teams of relevant officials from Russia and other member states. She said they deal with diplomatic protocol, security and other practical modalities of such gatherings. Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has yet to formally confirm his participation in the Yerevan meeting scheduled for Friday. Like other major world powers, Russia has expressed serious concern over the fighting around Karabakh, which broke out on September 27, and repeatedly called for an end to it. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has repeatedly spoken with his Armenian and Azerbaijani counterparts over the past week. Also, Putin has had three phone conversations with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian since September 27. But he has still not spoken with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev or Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday that Putin does not yet have clear-cut plans to contact Aliyev or Erdogan. But we are talking about a war, and, of course, the situation in Karabakh is developing rapidly, Peskov told reporters in Moscow. So its hard to make forecasts on this. The Little Steps team is excited to be a part of the Willowbrook community. Were going to continue working to reach as many children as we can, step by step. Little Steps Pediatric Therapy has opened a new location in Willowbrook, Illinois. The site which is located at 625 Plainfield Rd., Suite 224 is now serving children of all ages by delivering pediatric physical, occupational and speech therapy. The Willowbrook location allows the pediatric therapy provider to reach patients in the southwestern Chicago metro area. Little Steps already has sites in Chicago, Highland Park, Wilmette and Glenview. Additionally, in recent months, the company opened a second site in Glenview and launched a sister company called Little Steps Florida LLC to deliver therapy services to patients outside of Illinois. Jaime Passaglia, the founder of Little Steps, has always wanted to open a space in the western suburbs and seized the opportunity to make her companys services more accessible to children in that region. The Little Steps team is excited to be a part of the Willowbrook community, Passaglia said. Were going to continue working to reach as many children as we can, step by step. Little Steps focuses on improving childrens lives with compassionate and comprehensive care. In addition to pediatric therapy services, the provider also offers supplemental educational programs at some locations to help children hone specific skills. For instance, to assist parents and supplement remote education, the Little Steps team is now offering enrichment pods for Pre-K through 5th-grade students to help with speech, reading, handwriting and other abilities. For more information about Little Steps and the providers pediatric therapy services and programs, please call 847-707-6744 or email info@littlestepspt.com. About Little Steps Little Steps Pediatric Therapy is a privately-owned company composed of pediatric professionals focused on delivering physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy and behavior therapy to children of all ages in the Chicago area. Our team is determined to provide comprehensive and educational care to change the lives of children one step at a time. To learn more, visit littlestepspt.com. For more information contact: Kaley Rosinski 847-707-6744 info@littlestepspt.com A new video narrated by the artist reveals the large-scale artwork, capturing the creative journey behind his first London mural, available to view from 3pm today https://www.facebook.com/VT/videos/2803413546603455 . In the video, D*Face discusses his subversive self-portrait, that combines pop-media and imagery, not only as a satirical comment on content consumption in the 21st century but as a nod to Zippo's iconic pop culture status and commitment to individual expression. The mural, located on the side of the Theatro Technis Theatre in London's Kings Cross, is one of over 40 large-scale murals and artistic events, taking place throughout September as part of the festival's celebration of Street Art in the Capital. The mural design has also been captured on a limited edition Zippo windproof lighter, a canvas for self-expression, using the new 540 Color decoration process. This latest design innovation from the brand allows Zippo to add any design, in full color graphics, to the windproof lighter, wrapping around all edges and surfaces - creating a surround sound of visual information, both reflective of the mural design and fitting of our times. The D*Face limited edition lighter forms part of the new Zippo Street Art Collection featuring designs from four artists; D*Face, Marija Tiurina, Pref and Tristan Eaton. The collection will be available online from today in the US https://www.zippo.com/pages/540-color-street-art-collection and in the UK from 27th October. Follow the creative journey of Zippo x D*Face on Facebook (@Zippo), Instagram (@OriginalZippo) and Twitter (@Zippo). Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1274764/D_Face_x_Zippo.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1165481/Zippo_Logo.jpg SOURCE Zippo UPDATE: Homicide detectives have identified a suspect in the shooting death of Thomas Jefferson Byrd. On Oct. 14, Atlanta police officials announced that warrants for the arrest of 30-year-old Antonio Demetrice Rhynes of Atlanta for felony murder were issued and investigators from the APD Fugitive Unit were working to arrest the suspect. In the early morning hours of Oct. 16, Rhynes was indeed arrested and taken to the Fulton County Jail. As of press time, he had yet to enter a plea. Hollywood has lost a star. Actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd passed away in Atlanta, Ga. on Saturday, Oct. 3 "from multiple gunshot wounds to the back," a spokesperson for the Atlanta Police Department said in a statement to E! News. According to local law enforcement, officers responded to a "person injured call" around 1:45 a.m. EST on Saturday. Upon arrival, authorities said they found "a male lying unresponsive at the location." An EMS team also responded to the call, and shortly after arriving, they pronounced the male dead. The victim was later identified to be Byrd. He was 70 years old. At this time, it's unclear what the circumstances are surrounding the incident. Per the Atlanta Police Department, Byrd's death is currently under investigation. Celebrity Deaths: 2020's Fallen Stars Following the news of Byrd's death, Spike Lee took to Instagram to pay tribute to the late actor, who frequently appeared in his projects such as Chi-Raq, Clockers, Red Hook Summer, He Got Game and countless others. "I'm So Sad To Announce The Tragic Murder Of Our Beloved Brother Thomas Jefferson Byrd Last Night In Atlanta, Georgia," Lee began his Instagram post on Sunday, Oct. 4. "Tom Is My Guy." The acclaimed director noted the films he worked with the late actor on, and in closing, Lee shared on final message. "May We All Wish Condolences And Blessings To His Family. Rest In Peace Brother Byrd," he concluded. Story continues Viola Davis expressed her heartache as well, writing, "Oh no!!! 2020! Whaaattt!!! Loved working with you Byrd. What a fine actor you were. So sorry your life ended this way. Praying for your family. So very sorry." Comedian Jay Washington also honored the late actor on social media."Rest In Peace to the legendary Thomas Jefferson Byrd seen here with me and the iconic Spike Lee," Washington wrote in part. "I had the honor of working with Mr. Byrd in CHI-RAQ but enjoyed much of his work." Reporting by Spencer Lubitz (Originally published Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020 at 3:44 p.m. PST) As I heard the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals judges who denied General Flynns petition for a writ of mandamus opinion here they expected Judge Sullivan to dismiss the case against Flynn on the governments motion without further ado when the case was returned to him. This past Tuesday Judge Sullivan held the hearing on the governments dismissal motion and, on the contrary, it sounds like the case will be dismissed over Judge Sullivans dead body. The Washington Post has a long account of the hearing here as does Politico here. Politico quotes Judge Sullivan: The sentencing has already commenced in this case. Reporters Josh Gerstein and Kyle Cheney comment: The import of the judges view of sentencing as being in progress wasnt entirely clear. St. Louis attorney John Reeves clarified the import in a series of 19 tweets that commences with the first below. Click on the time stamp in the tweet to access the rest of the series. I agree with Reeves that the ordeal of General Flynn is to be continued by Judge Sullivan until it is shut down by a higher authority. Although the D.C. Circuit anticipated that Judge Sullivan would follow the law in due course, he seems to have lost the thread somewhere along the line. We are thrilled to be recognized with this particular award because it was chosen by the readers, not a panel of judges, who had to take time out of their schedules to vote for us. Mid-Atlantic-based public relations firm Pugh & Tiller PR is a winner in the Best PR Agency category in The Daily Records 2020 Reader Rankings. The annual recognition by The Daily Record comes on the heels of the firm being named to PRNEWS inaugural Agency Elite Top 100, which recognizes the most innovative and strategic public relations firms in the nation. Pugh & Tiller also recently was named one of the top PR firms in the Baltimore area by Expertise.com, a Seattle-based online directory that uses a research and selection process to identify top service professionals in more than 100 business categories including public relations. "We are thrilled to be recognized with this particular award because it was chosen by the readers, not a panel of judges, who had to take time out of their schedules to vote for us, says Jessica Tiller, Partner at Pugh & Tiller PR. We feel honored to have been chosen. The Daily Records recognition confirms our 12-year commitment to helping our clients achieve their business and communications objectives, adds company Partner Matthew Pugh. The Daily Record has been a great publication to work with over the years and we appreciate being named a Reader Rankings winner. The Daily Record created its annual Reader Rankings to celebrate and recognize the best the regions business and legal communities have to offer. The Daily Record received more than 20,500 votes for this years Reader Rankings. Winners will be celebrated virtually this year through category-specific daily video rollouts, beginning October 5. A special Reader Rankings publication will appear in print and online in the October 16 issue of The Daily Record. About Pugh & Tiller PR Pugh & Tiller PR, LLC (formerly Weiss PR, Inc.) helps companies and organizations reach, engage, and influence the right audiences in order to achieve both their communications and business goals. Pugh & Tiller specializes in five key industries technology, professional services, real estate, non-profits, and healthcare/employee benefits. The firms integrated approach to communications includes media and influencer relations, social media and marketing services, and issues management all anchored by strategic communications planning. For more information, visit https://pughandtillerpr.com/. About The Daily Record Celebrating 132 years of journalistic excellence, The Daily Record is a multimedia news source that publishes a print and online edition five days a week and breaks news daily on its website, TheDailyRecord.com. In addition, The Daily Record publishes more than 30 special products a year including Women Who Lead, Doing Business in Maryland, Way to Be and Expanding Opportunities. The Daily Record also honors leading Marylanders through 10 annual awards events including Maryland's Top 100 Women, Influential Marylanders and Most Admired CEOs. Its Digital Marketing Solutions helps customers with social media, search engine marketing and optimization, retargeting, email marketing and more. The Daily Record is part of BridgeTower Media, one of the countrys leading business-to-business media companies with 44 print and digital publications in more than 20 U.S. markets. Reports say Paswan and Yadav have been in touch with poll strategist Prashant Kishor who has told them that they should not be impatient Lok Janshakti Partys national president Chirag Paswan and Rashtriya Janata Party leader Tejashwi Yadav have been in the news in recent weeks for the same reason: both young leaders were seen driving a hard bargain with their respective alliance partners in the seat-sharing negotiations for the forthcoming Bihar Assembly polls. But the two also have something else in common. According to reports from Patna, young Paswan and Yadav have been in touch with poll strategist Prashant Kishor who has told them that they should not be impatient as their electoral prospects in the coming poll are not very bright. He has instead advised them to bide their time and focus on the 2025 Assembly election by which time they would have added to their experience and attained a degree of gravitas. Realising that theres merit in Kishors argument, Paswan and Yadav have decided on using this election to build their profile as both see themselves as future chief ministers. This explains their recent tough posturing. After losing two allies, the Shiv Sena and the Shiromani Akali Dal, the Bharatiya Janata Party has stepped up efforts to persuade the AIADMK to formalise its entry into the National Democratic Alliance. The AIADMK has one foot in the door already as it has been extending full support to the Narendra Modi government on all major issues. The Southern party has apparently been offered a Cabinet berth to sweeten the deal. Given its brute majority in the Lok Sabha, the BJP actually does not need the crutch of alliance partners. But if the AIADMK comes on board, it will help the BJP correct the public perception that it is arrogant and is driving away its allies. At the same time, the BJP hopes such a development will strengthen its presence in Tamil Nadu as it one of the Southern states where it wants to expand its footprint. Ever since it stormed to power in 2014 and emerged as the dominant political force in the country, the Bharatiya Janata Party has adopted a pragmatic approach when it comes to inducting leaders from other political parties. The saffron party has been happy to give them tickets if they have the potential to win an election. Similarly, the party has no problem in inducting these outsiders as ministers. There was a time when the BJP drew the line at accommodating them in key party positions but not any more. This was once again evident from the composition of party president J.P. Naddas new team members. A number of leaders once dubbed outsiders like D. Purandeswari, D.K. Aruna, Mukul Roy and Tom Vadakkan were given prominent positions in the party, once the preserve of those who had risen from the ranks and were steeped in the party ideology. Though this has led to a lot of resentment among the loyalists, the party is unconcerned as these appointments have been made with a firm eye on spreading its wings in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and West Bengal, the states these newcomers come from. With speculation rife that Uttarakhand chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat is on his way out, his rivals in the Bharatiya Janata Party are busy positioning themselves for the top post. State tourism minister Satpal Maharaj is the latest to join the long list of chief ministerial contenders. Satpal Maharajs ministry has recently hired a private public relations firm ostensibly to promote tourism in the hill state but the fact is that it has been promoting the minister. As a result, Satpal Maharajs visibility in the press has increased. The minister has also visited Delhi several times in recent weeks despite the coronavirus pandemic as he believes his status as a religious guru gives him an edge over the others. But Satpal Maharaj faces tough in-house competition. Union minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank and BJP media chief Anil Baluni are also in the race and both have a hotline to the leadership. The outrage over the Hathras tragedy finally pushed the otherwise somnolent Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati to put out a statement demanding the dismissal of the Yogi government in Uttar Pradesh. This is a change from the recent past when Mayawati was virtually invisible and refrained from attacking the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Yogi government. Her periodic outbursts were instead directed at the Congress, especially its general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra who has made a conscious effort to woo the Dalits in Uttar Pradesh, the BSPs support base. On her part, Priyanka makes it a point to visit victims of violence, particularly dalits, while tweeting regularly on the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh. Realising that she could end up losing the perception war and the loyalty of her core voter, Mayawati finally roused herself to take on Yogi Adityanath. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. The OSCE Minsk Group Co-chairs reconfirmed the joint statement of the Foreign Ministers of Russia, the USA and France, which condemned the escalation of violence in the most decisive way, ARMENPRESS was informed from the official website of the OSCE. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Yves Le Drian, and Secretary of State of the United States of America Michael R. Pompeo, representing the Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, condemn in the strongest terms the unprecedented and dangerous escalation of violence in and outside of the Nagorno-Karabakh zone, ARMENPRESS reports reads the joint statement issued by the foreign ministers of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chair countries. The Ministers stress unconditionally that recent attacks allegedly targeting civilian centers - both along the Line of Contact and on the territories of Azerbaijan and Armenia outside the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone - and the disproportionate nature of such attacks constitute an unacceptable threat to the stability of the region. Recalling the October 1 statement of the Heads of State of the three Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, the Ministers call once again upon the conflicting parties to accept an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. The Co-Chairing countries are determined to exercise fully their mandate, entrusted to them by the OSCE and the international community, with the contribution of the Minsk Group capitals. As such, they will firmly continue to advance their engagement with the sides, and urge them to commit now to resuming the settlement process on the basis of existing core principles and relevant international documents well-known by both parties. Donald Trump left Walter Reed Medical Centre for a photo op on Sunday evening , driving by his supporters lining the street outside in a slow-moving motorcade. Seconds before he appeared, the president posted a new video to Twitter in which he praised the medical staff and promised a surprise for the crowd who had gathered outside the hospital in Maryland, where he was admitted on Friday to be treated for the coronavirus. The president, wearing what appeared to be a cloth mask, was then seen in the back of a slow-moving black SUV, waving to the assembled crowds. Trump supporters began assembling on Friday evening and have grown in number over the weekend. Many were carrying Trump 2020 banner and MAGA signs, as well as Stars and Stripes and Blue Lives Matter flags. The motorcade, which was also flanked by Secret Service agents on foot, then returned to the hospital. White House spokesman Judd Deere said: "President Trump took a short, last-minute motorcade ride to wave to his supporters outside and has now returned to the Presidential Suite inside Walter Reed." Pool reporters were not informed ahead of time and were not called back to the White House nor Walter Reed. The presidents medical condition has been the subject of debate for two days now, with conflicting information from administration sources and the medical team at Walter Reed. Donald Trump says he will visit supporters despite coronavirus infection Earlier on Sunday it was announced that he could be discharged from hospital as soon as Monday, though medical practitioners interviewed by the networks remain sceptical given the treatments the president is receiving. Concern was voiced by some on Twitter for the Secret Service agents and driver who would have travelled in the car with Mr Trump. One doctor branded the stunt insanity. In the video released before the drive-by, Mr Trump said: Its been a very interesting journey. I learned a lot about Covid. I learned it by really going to school. This is the real school. This isnt the lets read the book school. And I get it. And I understand it. And its a very interesting thing. 10 | Trump gets COVID-19, Oct 2, 2020: After weeks of holding in-person rallies in which safety measures against the spread of the coronavirus were largely ignored, Trump and several aides tested positive for the disease. A short illness and quarantine period kept him off the campaign trail for 10 days. The bigger damage, however, may have been to the president's image. With Trump already faulted by a majority of Americans for his handling of the pandemic, his diagnosis made the White House look bumbling and hypocritical. And it ensured the virus would remain the central issue of the campaign just weeks before Election Day. (Image: AP) US President Donald Trump made a surprise drive-by to wave at his supporters outside a military hospital where he has been admitted since Friday for the treatment of coronavirus. The brief drive through Rockville Pike in Bethesda, a Maryland suburb of Washington DC, that separates the National Institute of Health and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, brought cheers to his supporters who have been praying for his safety and healthy life. I really appreciate all of the fans and supporters outside of the hospital. The fact is, they really love our Country and are seeing how we are MAKING IT GREATER THAN EVER BEFORE! Trump said in a tweet soon thereafter. The crowd outside the Walter Reed National Medical Center has been increasing every passing day. His supporters from far and wide are arriving outside the hospital to express solidarity with the president and the First Family. Trump and the First Lady tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday night. Trump was moved to the military hospital on Friday, which his doctors and White House said was taken out of abundance of caution. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show On Sunday, before going out to wave at his supporters, Trump in a video posted on his Twitter handle said he will give a little surprise to some of the great patriots, who have been on the streets, and they have been out there for a long time. They love our country. I am not telling anybody but you, I am about to make a little surprise visit, Trump said. The president was seen wearing a mask and waving at his supporters from inside the black SUV. The windows were closed. When I look at the enthusiasm. We have enthusiasm like probably nobody ever had, he said. Trump in his short video message said he has learnt a lot about COVID-19, literally by going to school. This is the real school, he said in his video from inside the military hospital. I get it. I understand it, he said. White House spokesman Judd Deere said appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the President. The movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do, he said. "President Trump took a short, last-minute motorcade ride to wave to his supporters outside and has now returned to the Presidential Suite inside Walter Reed," Deere said in another statement soon thereafter. White House Correspondents Association or WHCA expressed its outrage at the decision of the president. It is outrageous for the president to have left the hospital even briefly amid a health crisis without a protective pool present to ensure that the American people know where their president is and how he is doing, the WHCA said in a statement. Two secret service agents wearing masks were seen inside the black SUV. The pool of reporters organised under the WHCA, who cover the president, were not informed in the presidential movement outside the hospital. Now more than ever, the American public deserves independent coverage of the president so they can be reliably informed about his health, the WHCA said. Earlier in the day, his doctors said the president was doing well, and he had not had fever since Friday. They hoped that the president might be discharged from the hospital on Monday. A 23-year-old man died of electrocution after he touched an electricity pole, located in a park in south-east Delhis Nizamuddin, late Sunday night. The man had gotten engaged to be married three months ago and was to have the nuptials before December. Police have registered a case of death due to negligence to probe the incident. According to the police, they received a call at the Hazrat Nizamuddin police station around 11.50pm reporting that a man has died of electrocution after he came in contact with a pole at a park near Nizamuddin Basti. A police team reached the spot rushed the injured man to AIIMS, where he was pronounced dead. Deputy commissioner of police (south-east) RP Meena said the police were later able to identify the man as Jubair, a resident of Nizamuddin Basti, who worked at a car accessories shop in Lajpat Nagar. He hailed from Amroha in Uttar Pradesh. His body was sent for a postmortem examination and the family members were informed, the DCP said. Meena said the spot where he got electrocuted was inspected and a case of causing death due to negligence was registered against unknown persons to probe the matter. A team from power discom BSES also visited the spot and cut the supply to the pole, he said. A BSES official said the stretch and the pole in question are not maintained by BSES. When contacted, PWD officials did not comment on the matter. According to Jubairs cousin Rehman, he had just returned home from work and was talking to his mother over the phone, when the incident took place. His mother is visually challenged and lives with Jubairs three brothers and father in Amroha. While talking over the phone, he touched the pole unintentionally and got electrocuted. Some men known to him, who were present in the area, used a stick to separate him from the pole and then he was rushed to the hospital, Rehman said. He said Jubair got betrothed three months ago and was planning to get married before December. His was a poor family and we pray to the government to help them in any way possible, said Rehman, who runs an apparel shop in Nizamuddin. Making it easier for San Francisco small businesses to open, or for existing storefronts to change uses, has long been a contentious issue in City Hall. But with the pandemic hurting and even closing the citys small businesses, very little opposition has lined up against a ballot measure that seeks to do just that. Mayor London Breed placed the Save Our Small Businesses initiative, or Proposition H, on the November ballot. It seeks to streamline the citys tedious, months-long process for new retail or restaurant permits by requiring reviews within 30 days. It also allows city departments to work on applications in tandem, speeding up the process that often keeps retailers from opening even as theyre on the hook for paying rent or mortgages. Prop. H is a long overdue measure to cut the red tape and bureaucracy that are strangling our small businesses, Mayor Breed said in a statement. Reducing permitting times from a year to a month and allowing flexibility for existing businesses to adapt their use is a lifeline for our small businesses and nonprofits as they strive to stay open during this trying time. The citys streets were littered with empty storefronts long before the pandemic worsened the sectors woes. A Chronicle investigation last year found that beyond competition from e-commerce businesses high rents, long waits for permits, expensive construction costs and mandatory seismic retrofits contributed to the blight. It takes an average of six to nine months for permits to be approved in San Francisco, according to a city report. The pandemic has exacerbated the problems, with about 2,000 businesses closing permanently across the Bay Area since shelter-in-place health orders crucial in curbing the spread of the coronavirus took effect in March, according to Yelp. The San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, Golden Gate Restaurant Association and neighborhood merchant groups said they support the measure. So far, supporters of Prop. H have raised $150,000. Some neighborhood groups, such as the Haight Ashbury Neighborhood Council, and private citizens oppose the initiative, though no funds have been raised against it as of early October. Restaurateur Mattia Cosmi of Italian Homemade knows the pitfalls of the citys permit bureaucracy all too well. He has four locations in the Bay Area, three in San Francisco and one in Berkeley. He bought the former Caffe Roma spot on 526 Columbus Ave. in October 2018, intending to open a full-service restaurant, his second location in North Beach. The space was permitted for a limited restaurant, meaning it could heat and serve food but not operate a full kitchen. After thousands of dollars and a year and half, he finally received approval for a change of use for the space in March, he said, just in time for the shelter-in-place orders, which allowed restaurants to operate takeout and delivery services only. It was too much. I decided to run my delivery operations in a DoorDash kitchen in Redwood City. Were still building out our second North Beach location, which has yet to open. To stay afloat during the pandemic, we needed to restrain payroll, Cosmi said. Cosmi supports Prop H. This should have been done a long time ago, he said. It would have been amazing if I could have switched from cafe to restaurant in a month instead of a year and a half, he said. If it passes, its going to be great for pretty much everything. There have been recent efforts to help small businesses: A moratorium on commercial evictions is in place, and the city waived fees for some businesses as well. Prop H would also allow more pop-ups in vacant retail shops and let restaurants rent space to co-working firms. In addition, nonprofits would be allowed to open offices in ground-floor levels, which Breed said would help fill vacant storefronts. In neighborhood retail districts, it would do away with mandatory neighborhood notifications if a proposed business is already allowed under zoning laws. Prop. H does not change any laws around formula retail. All chain stores are required to go through a process that includes neighborhood notifications. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. Jessica Christian / The Chronicle District Eight Supervisor Rafael Mandelman is one of the six supervisors who support Prop. H, though he has reservations. The citys planning code is too hard to parse sometimes. Its a gauntlet that we should not be asking small entrepreneurs to run through right now, he said. While individual provisions make sense at a certain point in time, collectively, they can become burdensome for small business owners. Mandelman said he would have preferred going through the Board of Supervisors route instead of having a ballot measure, but the last time that happened, it was like going through death by a thousand cuts. Last fall, then-District Five Supervisor Vallie Brown and Breed passed legislation to make it easier for small businesses to open and operate in San Francisco. But that was watered down by the Board of Supervisors. For me, the crisis small businesses are in right now outweighs other concerns, Mandelman said. The Haight Ashbury Neighborhood Council recommended its members reject the measure, citing lack of community input and concerns around the changes they say benefit developers and landlords. Prop. H needs a simple-majority vote to pass. If it passes, the measure can be amended by the Board of Supervisors after three years. Shwanika Narayan is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: shwanika.narayan@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @shwanika Instagram: @shwanika Schools in COVID-19 hot spots across the province Toronto, Peel, York and Ottawa will receive an extra $35 million in funding to hire more teachers and staff, boost cleaning or provide devices for families keeping their kids at home to learn. Premier Doug Ford and Education Minister Stephen Lecce made the announcement of the release of the additional federal funds on Monday at Queens Park. The government has spared absolutely no expense when it comes to protecting our kids and school staff, Ford said. This funding will help provide more physical distancing in classrooms, support smaller classrooms and provide more resources for remote learning. Education Minister Stephen Lecce said the Toronto District School Board, the countrys largest, is in line for almost $9 million, which would enable it to hire more than 120 teachers or a hundred more custodians, or 11,000 more technological devices. The Toronto Catholic board will receive about $3.4 million, the Peel public board about $5.8 million, the York public board about $4.8 million and the York Catholic board about $2 million, according to the ministry. Cathy Abraham, president of the Ontario Public School Boards Association, said we appreciate the flexibility to use the funding where the boards see the need. However, she said while there are areas in the middle of COVID-19 spikes and efforts must be made to slow the spread, I always like to remind the minister and ministry that there are still areas of need throughout the province. Lecce was asked Monday about a situation in the Toronto Catholic board where an itinerant music teacher diagnosed with COVID-19 has forced the isolation of numerous classes at about six schools. The travelling teachers are usually providing one hour of instruction to those children, he noted. The protocol requires that school boards work to limit the mobility, limit the movement of that staff member between schools really reducing that from, lets say, years prior. He said weve also enhanced the screening protocol for those very individuals. In the legislature, NDP education critic Marit Stiles charged that the government is putting students and staff at risk (and) ignoring the lessons of the first wave of COVID-19 by not providing boards with more funding. You do not need to be an epidemiologist to know that moving staff from class to class and school to school is going to increase risk, Styles said. There are six schools impacted, and those families cant even get a test today because testing centres are closed. Lecce said the government is asking the teacher unions to work with us to reduce the risk. A source told the Star that the teacher in question violated a number of COVID-19 protocols, including failing to self-screen before coming to school, working while symptomatic and improperly wearing a mask below the nose while in the school. Liz Stuart, president of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association, said the union tried to engage the government months ago in discussions about how to limit the movement of itinerant and occasional teachers but was rebuffed. Read more about: A new viral picture of actor Sanjay Dutt has fans worried about his health. The image doing rounds on the Internet show Sanjay is looking weaker while posing along with one of his fans. Seeing the picture, social media users wished the "Munna Bhai M.B.B.S." star a speedy recovery. "Baba looks so weak. Hope he recovers soon," a user wrote. "Hope he feels better soon," another one wrote. Currently, Sanjay is not in the best of his health. On August 11, he had shared that he was taking a break for medical treatment. Although the 61-year-old actor or his family members did not reveal anything officially, trade analyst and film industry insider Komal Nahta subsequently confirmed that Sanjay has been diagnosed with lung cancer. "Sanjay Dutt diagnosed with lung cancer. Let's pray for his speedy recovery," tweeted Nahta on his official Twitter account in August. It is not uncommon to see companies perform well in the years after insiders buy shares. The flip side of that is that there are more than a few examples of insiders dumping stock prior to a period of weak performance. So before you buy or sell Kingston Resources Limited (ASX:KSN), you may well want to know whether insiders have been buying or selling. What Is Insider Buying? Most investors know that it is quite permissible for company leaders, such as directors of the board, to buy and sell stock in the company. However, such insiders must disclose their trading activities, and not trade on inside information. We would never suggest that investors should base their decisions solely on what the directors of a company have been doing. But equally, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether. For example, a Harvard University study found that 'insider purchases earn abnormal returns of more than 6% per year'. Check out our latest analysis for Kingston Resources Kingston Resources Insider Transactions Over The Last Year Over the last year, we can see that the biggest insider purchase was by insider Ian Ingram for AU$1.6m worth of shares, at about AU$0.16 per share. Although we like to see insider buying, we note that this large purchase was at significantly below the recent price of AU$0.24. Because the shares were purchased at a lower price, this particular buy doesn't tell us much about how insiders feel about the current share price. Kingston Resources insiders may have bought shares in the last year, but they didn't sell any. The chart below shows insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year. By clicking on the graph below, you can see the precise details of each insider transaction! 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). Story continues Insider Ownership of Kingston Resources Another way to test the alignment between the leaders of a company and other shareholders is to look at how many shares they own. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. It appears that Kingston Resources insiders own 19% of the company, worth about AU$11m. This level of insider ownership is good but just short of being particularly stand-out. It certainly does suggest a reasonable degree of alignment. What Might The Insider Transactions At Kingston Resources Tell Us? There haven't been any insider transactions in the last three months -- that doesn't mean much. However, our analysis of transactions over the last year is heartening. Insiders own shares in Kingston Resources and we see no evidence to suggest they are worried about the future. In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing Kingston Resources. Case in point: We've spotted 3 warning signs for Kingston Resources you should be aware of. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions, but not derivative transactions. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com. This is an opinion column. Sorry is a good start. A noble start. A necessary start. Yet its just a start. Sarah Collins Rudolph, the fifth little girl in the 1963 KKK bombing of Sixteenth Street Baptist Church received a sincere, heartfelt apology from Gov. Kay Ivey last week for the role of former state leaders in sparking the egregious injustice that has yielded pain and suffering over the ensuing decades. Gov. George Wallace emboldened white supremacists with his fiery words, emboldening them to unleash bombings targeting Blacks throughout Birmingham and ultimately bomb the church, killing the four little girls weve all come to know and severely injuring Rudolph. Three KKK members were ultimately convicted for the evil crime. There should be no question, Ivey told Rudolph, that the racist, segregationist rhetoric used by some of our leaders during that time was wrong. Sarah and sister Addie Mae were in the ladies' lounge in the churchs basement on the Sunday morning of September 15th, 57 years ago, as she shared with AL.coms Shauna Stuart in 2018. Theyd just been joined by Cynthia Wesley, Carole Robertson, and Carole Denise McNair. Denise asked Addie to tie the sash on the back of her dress as Sarah stood near the sink. We all stood there, Rudolph told Stuart. You know, looking to see her tie it. And she reached her hand out like that. And thats when the bomb went off... boom! So, we didnt get a chance to see her tie it. Glass and shrapnel penetrated her face, leaving her blind in one eyeand dousing Rudoplhs dream of becoming a nurse. Wesley, Roberston, McNair, and Addie Mae Collins, as we all sadly know, were murdered that Sunday morning. Ivey also extended the apology to their families. A good start. A noble and necessary start. Yet just a start. Rudolph, through attorneys, is seeking compensation from the state for the loss of her beloved sister and for the pain, suffering and lifetime of missed opportunities resulting from the bombing, her lawyers said. She deserves it, as do the still-grieving families of our four little girls. So, too, do the myriad victims of our states violent past whose lives and livelihoods were decimated by so many racist travesties. Travesties such as the government-sanctioned buying and selling of enslaved humans near the ports of Mobile and Montgomery, the immoral institution that girded the states economic roots, the more than 300 Black Alabamians lynched over 66 heinous years, and the spate of bombings in and around the city that came to be known as Bombingham. Im not afraid to say it: Black Alabamians deserve reparations. Deserve something for still bearing the weight of the states egregious past. For still suffering from its reverberations. From immoral disparities in health outcomes, education, employment, and economic opportunity. From conditions that lead to us too often tragically killing our own. Now breathe, Im not looking for a check in my mailbox. Nor do I believe reparations should take that form. I do believe we must be brave enough to intelligently and civilly explore what reparations could and should look like. Especially nowat this time of national reckoning on race and its role in shaping us. One state is finally doing just that. On Wednesday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed AB 3121, a bill establishing a nine-member task force to study the impact of slavery in the stateyes, in California and explore what reparations could or should look like for residents impacted by the institution. California is the first state in the nation to be so bold. Alabama, we must be so bold, too. AB 3121 was crafted and championed by California Assemblywoman Shirley Weber, who chairs the states Legislative Black Caucus. Who among our Black legislators might be so bold? Of course, Id leave it to this historic task force to render its recommendations for what reparations in Alabama could and should look like. But if I could slip a list under the door during its deliberations, here are some suggestions it might contain: Theres so much more we could and should do, so many other areas where reparations would ultimately lift us all. Would make us a better state. These would be, collectively, a good start. A noble and necessary start. Yet just a start. A voice for whats right and wrong in Birmingham, Alabama (and beyond), Roys column appears in The Birmingham News and AL.com, as well as in the Huntsville Times, the Mobile Register. Reach him at rjohnson@al.com and follow him at twitter.com/roysj New Delhi: India successfully flight-tested its indigenously developed Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system from Odisha's Balasore coast on Monday (October 5). The SMART was tested at 1145 hours from the APJ Abdul Kalam Island, earlier known as Wheeler Island, off the Odisha coast. It met all the objectives "flawlessly". The DRDO reportedly said that it will be a "game-changer" in anti-submarine warfare, marking yet another milestone in strengthening the country's maritime strategic capabilities. According to a defence statement, SMART is a missile assisted release of lightweight anti-submarine torpedo system for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations far beyond the torpedo range. This launch and demonstration are significant in establishing anti-submarine warfare capabilities, it said. Live TV Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) scientists on the successful conduct of the test which marks a major breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare. In a tweet, Defence Minister said, "The @DRDO_India has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART. This will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare. I congratulate DRDO and other stakeholders for this significant achievement." The @DRDO_India has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART. This will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare. I congratulate DRDO and other stakeholders for this significant achievement. Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 5, 2020 The flight testing of SMART follows the successful test-firing on Saturday of its indigenously developed nuclear-capable hypersonic missile 'Shaurya' with a strike range of around 1,000 km from the test range. "All the mission objectives (of SMART) including missile flight upto the range and altitude, separation of the nose cone, release of torpedo and deployment of velocity reduction mechanism (VRM) have been met perfectly," the statement said. The test encompasses hybrid technology which helps to upgrade the present system and also increase the striking range, the defence statement said. Tracking stations, including radars and electro optical systems along the coast and telemetry stations, also involving down range ships, monitored all the events. A number of DRDO laboratories including DRDL, RCI Hyderabad, ADRDE Agra and NSTL Visakhapatnam have developed the technologies required for SMART, sources told PTI. Secretary to the department of defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy told PTI that SMART is a "game-changer" technology demonstration in anti-submarine warfare. When launched from a warship or a truck-based coastal battery, SMART reportedly takes off like a regular supersonic missile, covering most of its flight in the air at lower altitudes with two-way data link from the warship or an airborne submarine target detection system. Notably, it provides the exact location of the hostile submarine to correct its flight path midway. When it approaches close enough to the submerged submarine, the missile will eject the torpedo system into the water and the autonomous torpedo will start moving towards its target to take out the submarine, the statement added. (With Agency Inputs) In a lawsuit, 13 former residents at Devereux's three Chester County campuses, including the Stone & Gables campus in Devon, have sued the nonprofit over alleged sexual abuse there. Read more Thirteen people have come forward and alleged that they, too, were sexually assaulted as children while in the care of Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, according to a lawsuit filed Monday. Of the 13, at least seven said they had complained to a Devereux staffer or social worker at the time, but their allegations were ignored and, in some cases, the abuse continued. It shows that this is just the tip of the iceberg, said Robert Mongeluzzi, one of their lawyers. We believe that more are going to come forward as the scope of this problem is peeled away. The revelations come after an Inquirer investigation in August detailed how 41 children as young as 12 years old, and with IQs as low as 50 were raped or sexually assaulted by Devereux staff members over the last 25 years. The 13 plaintiffs 12 from Pennsylvania and one from Delaware claim they were abused between 2004 and 2014 at one of Devereuxs three campuses in Chester County. Mongeluzzi said the 13 alleged victims were not among the 41 noted in The Inquirer investigation. While we have not yet seen the actual lawsuit, we can tell you any reported incidents involving children formerly in our care are heartbreaking, Devereux said in a statement Monday afternoon. The statement noted that the nonprofit had hired former U.S. Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch to conduct an independent audit of child safety to prevent this sort of harm from ever befalling another child. These industry challenges are far more complex than can be surmounted by staff training and financial investments alone, but we understand the hard work that needs to be done and committed many years ago to doing it, the statement said. The Inquirer found that Devereuxs leaders over the years promised to root out sexual predators and put safeguards in place to better protect children, but failed to do so. This is an unusual sexual abuse case in the level of overwhelming evidence of years of neglect and recklessness by an institution, said Andrew R. Duffy at the Saltz Mongeluzzi & Bendesky law firm. The plaintiffs lawyers said some of the alleged victims independently identified the same perpetrator. A plaintiff, identified as L.T., said she was 15 in 2013 when a Devereux staffer named Everol Brackett groomed her with snacks and privileges, then sexually abused her. Brackett is now serving a 2017 prison sentence for assaulting another girl at Devereux a year later. The Inquirer detailed how Brackett showered CKenya Tanksley, almost 15 at the time, with gifts and flattery. After a staffer found a love letter between the girl and Brackett, he was not punished, and a program manager told her to apologize to Brackett, Tanksley said. On a home pass, Brackett took Tanksley shopping, then drove her to an alley and sexually assaulted her in his car, before he dropped her off at a bus station to find her way back to Devereuxs Malvern residential facility, she said. The complaint, filed in Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas, seeks compensatory and punitive damages. In 2019, the state enacted a law that extended the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse claims. Victims now have until age 55 to bring a civil claim. Headquartered in Villanova, Devereux specializes in treating children with intellectual disabilities, mental disorders, and trauma at 15 residential campuses in nine states, making it the nations leading nonprofit health organization of its kind. It cares for 5,000 children across the country every year. Kristen Gibbons Feden, of Saltz Mongeluzzi & Bendesky and a lead prosecutor in the successful criminal case against actor Bill Cosby, said some victims told Devereux supervisors about the abuse, but were kind of shut down and silenced. Among the allegations in the lawsuit: A young woman, identified as K.M., was 8 years old when, in 2004, several Devereux staffers sexually abused and raped her. She complained to her Department of Human Services (DHS) worker but was branded as a liar. In 2008, when he was not yet 12, a victim, identified as L.C., said a female staffer touched his genitals and, on a separate occasion, forced him to expose himself in the laundry room, out of view of security cameras. Another staffer, who walked in and witnessed the abuse, reacted by disciplining and sedating him with an injection. Also in 2008, P.G., a 17-year-old girl repeatedly was sedated by injection, and as she blacked out, was sexually assaulted by a male staffer. She said that several times she awoke to find blood on her underwear. The Inquirer investigation detailed how lapses in supervision, training, and care fueled an environment at Devereux where staffers could sexually abuse children. In an interview in August, Devereux executives denied that campuses currently have issues with staffing or supervision. They said they have increased safety and reduced risk by adopting a number of safeguards to prevent abuse and hold staffers accountable since January 2018, when Carl Clark took over as chief executive officer. Reporters found that since 2018, four Devereux staffers have been charged with sexually abusing 11 children. Last month, after a six-week safety review, city officials announced they will pull all 53 Philadelphia children out of Devereuxs residential campuses after finding that staffers repeatedly failed to watch over them. And last week, Devereux executives said it abandoned its plan to shelter up to 40 undocumented migrant children in Devon, Chester County. Devereux also no longer intends to house 12 migrant children at a facility in Rutland, Mass. The decision comes roughly a year and a half after Devereux secured a $40.2 million federal grant to house and provide services to scores of migrant children in Pennsylvania and four other states. Erin James, a spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, which licenses and oversees residential facilities, said the agency is reviewing the lawsuit. A state investigation into Devereux, launched in August, is ongoing, she said. After opposing Donald Trumps impeachment, Rep. Jeff Van Drew switched to the Republican party and embraced the president. And Trump endorsed his run in a congressional district district that gave a majority of its votes to the president four years ago. But that could come back to haunt Van Drew, according to a Monmouth University Poll released Monday. The poll put Van Drew behind Democrat Amy Kennedy, and Trump behind Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden in South Jerseys 2nd Congressional District. Kennedy, part of the iconic Democratic family, led Van Drew, 49% to 44% among registered voters, and 50% to 44% among likely voters if turnout is high, and 51% to 44% if turnout is lower. Biden was ahead of Trump, 48% to 45% among registered voters, 50% to 45% among likely voters with high turnout election, and 49% to 45% with a low turnout in the 2nd District. Biden was vice president when Barack Obama carried the district in 2012. I am encouraged by the poll but I know its going to be a tight race depending on the turnout, Kennedy said Monday at a meeting with the Star-Ledger editorial board. Van Drew, elected as a Democrat in 2018, switched to the GOP at the White House in December and was feted by the president at a January rally at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Van Drew scored a major coup when he brought the president to Wildwood earlier this year, said Patrick Murray, director of the Monmouth University Polling Institute. That event certainly stoked Trumps base, but it fired up Democratic voters as well. This Obama-Trump district could be going back to blue next month. Van Drew is the only New Jersey lawmaker not favored to be re-elected next month. Both Inside Elections and the Cook Political Report consider the race a tossup. He is closely tied to a president whose job performance is viewed unfavorably by more than half of the districts registered voters, 51%, with 45% approving. And while 51% said Van Drews party-switching was not an issue, 47% said it did bother them. Kennedy, an eductator, is married to former Rep. Patrick Kennedy, D-R.I., the son of the late U.S. Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., and nephew of the late President John F. Kennedy. While 68% of voters said they were aware of Amy Kennedys familial connections, most of them said it had no impact in the race. Kennedy was born and raised in the district and that connection is apparently what most voters are judging her on rather than her last name, Murray said. The poll of 588 registered voters was conducted Sept. 26-Oct. 1 and had a margin of error of plus or minus 4.1 percentage points. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Jonathan D. Salant may be reached at jsalant@njadvancemedia.com. DUBLIN, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) announced today that the company will host its biennial Institutional Investor and Analyst Event on Wednesday, October 14, 2020, from 8:00 a.m. to approximately 2:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (7:00 a.m. to approximately 1:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time). The event, to be held virtually, will include presentations from company leadership focused on Medtronic's long-range strategies to accelerate revenue growth with its innovation pipeline, become a more nimble and competitive organization, and create long-term value for its shareholders. Medtronic will host a live webcast of the event to provide access to all interested parties. The live audio and video webcast can be accessed by clicking on the Investor Events link at http://investorrelations.medtronic.com on October 14, 2020. Within 24 hours of the event, a replay including presentation slides will be available by clicking on the Investor Events link at http://investorrelations.medtronic.com. About Medtronic Medtronic plc (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is among the world's largest medical technology, services and solutions companies alleviating pain, restoring health and extending life for millions of people around the world. Medtronic employs more than 90,000 people worldwide, serving physicians, hospitals and patients in more than 150 countries. The company is focused on collaborating with stakeholders around the world to take healthcare Further, Together. Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results. Erika Winkels Ryan Weispfenning Public Relations Investor Relations +1-763-526-8478 +1-763-505-4626 SOURCE Medtronic plc Related Links http://www.medtronic.com The Congress has been praying for a chink in the BJPs armour ever since the NDA came to power. Now, the Hathras incident and Farm Act 2020 have afforded the party an opportunity to mobilise the middle-class and farmers against the BJP. The brutal murder of a teenaged Dalit girl in Uttar Pradesh has the potential to marshal national outrage into a Nirbhaya-like campaign, the Congress feels, as the intersecting fault lines of caste, class and gender exert a powerful emotional appeal. In terms of sheer barbarism, the Hathras tragedy recalls the 2012 Delhi bus rape. But given the fact that the victim was a Dalit and her attackers upper caste, it resonates with the Bhanwari Devi case of 1992. The difference being that while Bhanwari survived (to see all the five accused acquitted), the Hathras victim like Nirbhaya did not. Since Nirbhaya, 250,000 rapes have been reported in India. In 2019 alone, the number stood at 33,000 and Dalits were the victims in 11 per cent of the cases. Last month, a three-year-old was raped and strangled in Lakhimpur Kheri in UP. And in Balrampur earlier this week, a 22-year-old student was allegedly drugged and raped and died on the way to hospital. Why has the Hathras tragedy generated so much political heat, whereas the Lakhimpur Kheri and Balrampur rape-murders did not? One might well compare the furore over the rape of an 8-year-old in Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir, in 2018, to the relative indifference over Lakhimpur-Kheri. In each case, the victim was brutalised and died as a result of injuries inflicted by the attackers. In both the Hathras and Balrampur cases, the victims were cremated in an unseemly hurry, casting doubts on the motives of the state. But the newsworthiness of a gender crime is not evaluated on the scale of brutality or injustice alone; the identity of victim and the perpetrators and the colour of the ruling party determine its news and political value. So Priyanka and Rahul Gandhi look to Hathras because that case fits the paradigm of state-enabled oppression of Dalits by the upper castes. Thus, we have a BJP government insensitive to caste and gender crimes, dragging its feet because the perpetrators were Thakurs in a state helmed by a Thakur chief minister. Accordingly, Congress workers protest at the Delhi-UP border and the Gandhi siblings attempt to march on foot to Hathras. The Youth Congress dresses up in Gandhi-esque attire to demonstrate at Jantar Mantar and party spokespersons demand UP CM Yogi Adityanaths resignation. Other opposition parties, including the Trinamool Congress, the AAP and the Samajwadi Party, have jumped on board, but Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is at the vanguard, breathing life into the moribund UP Congress. Already, the Congress is seeking to widen the scope of the protests into a campaign against the rape epidemic in the country. Now that the matter has been taken up suo motu by the Allahabad High Court, the Congress can claim a moral victory. Although the BJP has struck back by highlighting rape cases in Rajasthan, the Congress has scored solid points and will continue to whip up sentiments against the UP government. The fact that Yogi Adityanath has taken strong steps to bring the perpetrators and erring police officials to justice is besides the point. Protests against the Farm Act are also continuing, although the party is aware that they will be short-lived, as the law itself is by no means anti-farmer. Misrepresenting its provisions has, however, given the Congress an opportunity to engage with farmers organisations. The Congress has tried every trick in the book to rattle the BJP, from allegations of corruption (Lalit Modi, Nirav Modi, Rafale) to communalism (Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019) to fiscal imprudence (demonetisation, GST) to incompetence (Covid-19 lockdown). In each case, the BJP deftly turned the tables and gained political leverage. But the Hathras incident leaves the BJP vulnerable. For one thing, the party does not have a strong woman leader to counter Priyanka when she inveighs against gender crimes. Joining the chorus of condemnation are other Priyankas Chopra the Hollywood star and Chaturvedi the Shiv Sena activist. And while Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently made all the right noises on gender parity and enjoys a vast following among women, the UP polices inept handling of rape cases - such as the infamous Unnao incident involving a BJP MLA - puts the ruling party on the defensive. The Giant Thanksgiving Food Drive is taking place at schools in Edmonton and Sherwood Park Today, Monday October 5, 2020, Sherwood Ford and OilersNation are kicking off their annual Giant Thanksgiving Food Drive. These two local companies run this annual event to collect and donate supplies to local food banks in the Edmonton area. Located in Sherwood Park near Edmonton, Sherwood Ford is a community-involved dealership which hosts events like this one every year. This year, food donations are especially needed by the community. According to the Food Banks Canadas 2020 Annual Report, both volunteers and food donations have seen a recent decline. The decline in donations can put a strain on the food banks capability to provide for the community. To collect donations, Sherwood Ford and OilersNation are enlisting the help of three local schools. Two of these schools are Edmonton public schools, Harry Ainlay High School and M.E. LaZerte School. The third school is Lakeland Ridge School in Sherwood Park. Donations from students will be collected at these locations to support local food banks. Members of the community who would like to support their local food banks are encouraged to bring non-perishable items to Sherwood Ford. Non-perishable food items can include packaged or canned goods. Sherwood Ford is located at 2540 Broadmoor Boulevard in Sherwood Park, Alberta. Donations can also be brought to Sobeys Belmont, located at 13504 Victoria Trail NW in Edmonton, Alberta. Donations can be made now through October 29, 2020, and everyone is encouraged to participate. For those individuals who would rather make a cash donation, Strathcona Food Bank and Edmonton Food Bank are accepting monetary donations on their websites. Community members can go to strathconafoodbank.ca/donate or edmontonsfoodbank.com/donate-now to make their donations. manasmadaan BHPian Join Date: Oct 2011 Location: Amritsar Posts: 311 Thanked: 313 Times My pre-worshipped Toyota Innova Crysta 2.8L AT After a long and fruitful partnership with my XUV500 W10 AT (4.5 years & 1.10 lakh kms on the ODO), I decided to hunt for a new car (SUVs, Sedans, crossovers, all were included). There were no definite or set criteria for the search. New and used, both were being considered. The only condition was that the car had to be automatic and preferably diesel (but not necessary) Just for your information, my XUV fetched me Rs. 9.45 Lakhs (sold directly to an end user). The following were the cars looked at and considered during the purchase. 1) Ford Endeavour AT (4x2): This was the first and foremost choice for me. I had always been in awe of it ever since the new version was launched. Loved everything about it. After all the negotiations, it was costing me approximately Rs. 36 lakhs on-road. It was way over my budget but the heart kept beating for it. The head though turned the other way. 2) Toyota Innova Crysta Z AT: My family wanted a spacious family seater car. So, this was high on the priority list. Furthermore, my 10 year old daughter loved it, especially the way she could move freely between last and middle row seats. Loved the ride and comfort of the car. The new, detuned engine seemed capable enough in the city and on the highways. The ICE though, was a big let down. 3) Seltos/Creta: These were looked at just for the sake of it, but were never serious contenders because of the small footprint and our family car requirements. I loved the Creta's interiors though and that would be on top of the list for my wife's car upgrade from her i20. 4) Honda City Petrol AT: This seemed a totally different car from the previous gen model. The appearance, the interiors, the lay out, the features - everything was much improved over the previous one. I loved the CVT Petrol transmission. Had there been a diesel CVT option, it would have been a very strong contender inspite of being a 5-seater. I put this at 2nd spot for my wife's upgrade. 5) Skoda Superb L&L AT Diesel: Saw this ad on olx for Rs 21.50 lakhs in Ludhiana. The car had run 29,000 kms and seemed to be in really good condition. I had been in awe of the Superb ever since the new gen was launched and the possibility of owning it started giving me goosebumps. But then, I heard that the Skoda showroom in Amritsar had closed and there was no certain time period when it planned to reopen. So with a heavy heart, I let it go But the Skoda Superb deal made me hunt for more used car options in the market. I started looking for a used Endeavour in the market enthusiastically. But all of them had run almost 60-70,000 kms and the asking prices were around Rs. 25 lakhs. I did not want a car that had run more than 40,000 kms. So the possibility of a used endeavour was shut out. Meanwhile, I came across a used white Innova Crysta Z AT, 2017 model that had run 34,500 kms. The asking price was Rs. 18 lakhs. It looked good but the insurance had expired. After many negotiations, the deal was settled at Rs. 16.50 lakhs with an additional expenditure of Rs. 60,000 for the insurance, which I bought from Toyota for peace of mind. And so, came home my pre-worshipped Toyota Innova Crysta Z AT. My family was happy, my daughter was thrilled and in the process, I saved a cool approximate Rs. 20 lakhs (had i gone for the Endeavour). I have driven approximately 3,000 kms since acquiring this beast of a vehicle. LIKES: 1) Aggressive styling with commanding road presence 2) Really nice looking, spacious & luxurious interiors 3) Beast of an engine (2.8 L) 4) Comfortable for a family of 6 with adequate boot space with all rows up. 5) AT transmission. Makes driving extremely easy and relaxing. 6) Fuel Economy: I was really apprehensive about it but i have been getting amazing figures. Recently, I got up to 18 km/l on a 350 km highway run. Obviously, being light footed and using the eco mode helps. 7) Top speck safety features 8) Good turning radius within the city despite a large footprint 9) Highway cruising and straight line stability is good. Not a car for the corners though 10) Adequate ground clearance. DISLIKES: 1) No bench seats in Z AT variant. Almost was deal breaker 2) Thin sheet metal, very prone to denting. 3) Silver panels in the interior are prone to scratches 4) Poor sound output from the basic speakers. Would rate it 3.5/10. Got them upgraded. Details later. 5) No android auto 6) Halogen lights all round (got them replaced with LED) 7) Just 2 reverse sensors on a car this big and expensive. 8) Steering is very heavy for city use. Requires effort to operate at low speeds. 9) Paint quality is not up to the mark 10) FE figures within the city. Although highway figures are great, city FE figures hover between 8-10 km/l. The last FE figure for an entire city drive of mine was 9.5 km/l. Exterior: The exterior looks very good and gives an SUVish look especially from the front. The front profile gives a great and imposing road presence. Front chrome bar with black contrast, large bumper and narrow headlamps look great and give it a muscular look. The lower part of grill is glossy black which gives a nice contrast. The side still gives it an MPV look. The glass area is large which aids visibility and gives an airy feel. The rear styling is good with good looking vertical tail lamps and indicators. The chrome covered ORVMs look good and give good view of what's behind. Mine were already auto fold/open-ready with door lock/unlock. The shark fin antenna looks much better than the previous gen and the rear spoiler gives it a sporty look. I just wish there is an option to install the black body cladding that comes in touring sport. That will give it a nice look and contrast and beef up its muscular stance. The headlamps look great with the jewel-like appearance. However, they would have looked better if DRLs had been included. I plan to do that later. The panel gaps are uniform for most of the part without any major uneven gaps. I didn't like the alloy wheel design. Moreover 2 of them were dented, so I got them changed. The best view in my opinion of the vehicle: Smart looking tail lamps The side view cannot hide the van like looks Large sized ORVM provides a very good view of the action behind Interior: Best interiors of the Innova I have seen. The black and tan colour looks awesome. In my view, the interiors look way better than the Fortuner's. Fortuner's. The front doors open wide and the fabric inserts give it a plush luxurious look. The wide and large dash with fake wood inserts looks brilliant. The steering wheel is joy to see, hold and operate. The MID with 3D look and blue light looks great Adjustable under-thigh support Awesome look and feel of seat upholstery. Also the seats are slightly wider than before, which gives greater comfort. Wide ORVM with good adjustment range The touchscreen ICE is user friendly and easy to use. The rear seats are slightly higher, which offers an excellent seating position. Good AC flow at the back with independent controls Place to keep your mobile and charge it Food table on the seatbacks of front seats Rear mood blue lighting. Would have loved more colour options. One touch access to the last row seats. Usable 3rd row seats Rich luxurious looking cabin with tight fittings Attachment 2060901 Very good looking and Nicely weighted steering wheel for the highways. Although within the city, it feels a bit heavy. All the buttons are well spaced and easy to use. The long press action for the mute button is a strict NO though. Chrome ringed start button looks good and I feel it is at the right position (right of steering wheel) Good looking, soft suede-like fabric for the armrests looks and feel luxurious Smart phone holder and USB port for the rear passengers. Looks good although the depth for the phone holder should have been a bit more in my opinion. High set rear seats give a good and comfortable sitting posture Blue lounge lighting looks awesome at night. Few more colour options would have been nice though. Rear parcel tray Toyota logo in night Cup holder beneath the front AC vents. Keeps the drink cool Sunglass holder is prone to rattling Hello Everyone,After a long and fruitful partnership with my XUV500 W10 AT (4.5 years & 1.10 lakh kms on the ODO), I decided to hunt for a new car (SUVs, Sedans, crossovers, all were included).There were no definite or set criteria for the search. New and used, both were being considered. The only condition was that the car had to be automatic and preferably diesel (but not necessary)Just for your information, my XUV fetched me Rs. 9.45 Lakhs (sold directly to an end user).The following were the cars looked at and considered during the purchase.This was the first and foremost choice for me. I had always been in awe of it ever since the new version was launched. Loved everything about it. After all the negotiations, it was costing me approximately Rs. 36 lakhs on-road. It was way over my budget but the heart kept beating for it. The head though turned the other way.My family wanted a spacious family seater car. So, this was high on the priority list. Furthermore, my 10 year old daughter loved it, especially the way she could move freely between last and middle row seats. Loved the ride and comfort of the car. The new, detuned engine seemed capable enough in the city and on the highways. The ICE though, was a big let down.These were looked at just for the sake of it, but were never serious contenders because of the small footprint and our family car requirements. I loved the Creta's interiors though and that would be on top of the list for my wife's car upgrade from her i20.This seemed a totally different car from the previous gen model. The appearance, the interiors, the lay out, the features - everything was much improved over the previous one. I loved the CVT Petrol transmission. Had there been a diesel CVT option, it would have been a very strong contender inspite of being a 5-seater. I put this at 2nd spot for my wife's upgrade.Saw this ad on olx for Rs 21.50 lakhs in Ludhiana. The car had run 29,000 kms and seemed to be in really good condition. I had been in awe of the Superb ever since the new gen was launched and the possibility of owning it started giving me goosebumps. But then, I heard that the Skoda showroom in Amritsar had closed and there was no certain time period when it planned to reopen. So with a heavy heart, I let it goBut the Skoda Superb deal made me hunt for more used car options in the market.I started looking for a used Endeavour in the market enthusiastically. But all of them had run almost 60-70,000 kms and the asking prices were around Rs. 25 lakhs. I did not want a car that had run more than 40,000 kms. So the possibility of a used endeavour was shut out.Meanwhile, I came across a used white Innova Crysta Z AT, 2017 model that had run 34,500 kms. The asking price was Rs. 18 lakhs. It looked good but the insurance had expired. After many negotiations, the deal was settled at Rs. 16.50 lakhs with an additional expenditure of Rs. 60,000 for the insurance, which I bought from Toyota for peace of mind.And so, came home my pre-worshipped Toyota Innova Crysta Z AT. My family was happy, my daughter was thrilled and in the process, I saved a cool approximate Rs. 20 lakhs (had i gone for the Endeavour).I have driven approximately 3,000 kms since acquiring this beast of a vehicle.1) Aggressive styling with commanding road presence2) Really nice looking, spacious & luxurious interiors3) Beast of an engine (2.8 L)4) Comfortable for a family of 6 with adequate boot space with all rows up.5) AT transmission. Makes driving extremely easy and relaxing.6) Fuel Economy: I was really apprehensive about it but i have been getting amazing figures. Recently, I got up to 18 km/l on a 350 km highway run. Obviously, being light footed and using the eco mode helps.7) Top speck safety features8) Good turning radius within the city despite a large footprint9) Highway cruising and straight line stability is good. Not a car for the corners though10) Adequate ground clearance.1) No bench seats in Z AT variant. Almost was deal breaker2) Thin sheet metal, very prone to denting.3) Silver panels in the interior are prone to scratches4) Poor sound output from the basic speakers. Would rate it 3.5/10. Got them upgraded. Details later.5) No android auto6) Halogen lights all round (got them replaced with LED)7) Just 2 reverse sensors on a car this big and expensive.8) Steering is very heavy for city use. Requires effort to operate at low speeds.9) Paint quality is not up to the mark10) FE figures within the city. Although highway figures are great, city FE figures hover between 8-10 km/l. The last FE figure for an entire city drive of mine was 9.5 km/l.The exterior looks very good and gives an SUVish look especially from the front. The front profile gives a great and imposing road presence. Front chrome bar with black contrast, large bumper and narrow headlamps look great and give it a muscular look. The lower part of grill is glossy black which gives a nice contrast.The side still gives it an MPV look. The glass area is large which aids visibility and gives an airy feel. The rear styling is good with good looking vertical tail lamps and indicators. The chrome covered ORVMs look good and give good view of what's behind. Mine were already auto fold/open-ready with door lock/unlock. The shark fin antenna looks much better than the previous gen and the rear spoiler gives it a sporty look. I just wish there is an option to install the black body cladding that comes in touring sport. That will give it a nice look and contrast and beef up its muscular stance.The headlamps look great with the jewel-like appearance. However, they would have looked better if DRLs had been included. I plan to do that later.The panel gaps are uniform for most of the part without any major uneven gaps. I didn't like the alloy wheel design. Moreover 2 of them were dented, so I got them changed.The best view in my opinion of the vehicle:Smart looking tail lampsThe side view cannot hide the van like looksLarge sized ORVM provides a very good view of the action behindRich luxurious looking cabin with tight fittingsVery good looking and Nicely weighted steering wheel for the highways. Although within the city, it feels a bit heavy. All the buttons are well spaced and easy to use. The long press action for the mute button is a strict NO though.Chrome ringed start button looks good and I feel it is at the right position (right of steering wheel)Good looking, soft suede-like fabric for the armrests looks and feel luxuriousSmart phone holder and USB port for the rear passengers. Looks good although the depth for the phone holder should have been a bit more in my opinion.High set rear seats give a good and comfortable sitting postureBlue lounge lighting looks awesome at night. Few more colour options would have been nice though.Rear parcel trayToyota logo in nightCup holder beneath the front AC vents. Keeps the drink coolSunglass holder is prone to rattling Last edited by Aditya : 4th October 2020 at 05:49 . Reason: Spacing Thomas Edney was 2.5 when he was admitted into hospital with tumors in his brain and spinal cord. Multiple diagnoses and a failure to improve led him to the ZERO program whichshowed a mutation believed to be driving Thomas' cancer. The ZERO team was able tofind a therapy capable of targeting the mutation. In November 2019, Thomas was able to access a pediatric clinicaltrial using a gene therapy drug called Afatinib. Thomas's acceptance into the trial was only possible due to the ZEROprogram which included personalized analysis of Thomas' tumor sample.In January 2020, after two months of treatment, Thomas' brain scan showed a noticeable improvement. Today, Thomas is eight years old and still receiving the therapy. His tumour has shrunk, and he is no longer indebilitating pain. Credit: Children's Cancer Institute The success of an Australian program which aims to find the most-likely-to-succeed personalized treatment recommendations for children with high risk cancer has been revealed in a paper published today 6 October in the prestigious journal, Nature Medicine. The program uses state of the art genetic technology to test each child's tumor with a comprehensive suite of genetic tests to find a therapy that can potentially treat the cancer. This testing is completed within a clinically relevant timeframe of under 9 weeks on average, with more than 70% of the children being recommended a personalized treatment program. Of these cases, at least one, and sometimes several, genetic changes are identified that lead to the potential treatment recommendations. The paper's description of the Zero Childhood Cancer Personalized Medicine Program (ZERO), led by Children's Cancer Institute and Kids Cancer Centre at Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwickoffers a new paradigm for the management of pediatric cancers with global implications. Every year close to 1000 children and young people in Australia are diagnosed with cancer, and of these, three children die each week. The challenge in curing every child of cancer is that every child and every cancer is uniquewhich is why the current standard treatment options don't always work. One of the world's most comprehensive personalized medicine programs for children and young people with cancer, ZERO aims to identify the precise make-up of each child's cancer by using sophisticated genomic tests (whole genome sequencing, whole transcriptome sequencing and methylation profiling) to identify the molecular changes (including "mutations") driving their cancer, and matching these with treatments most likely to target their unique cancer. The aim is to identify a personalized treatment plan for each child. Zero Childhood Cancer researchers, Associate Professors Paul Ekert, Mark Cowley, and David Ziegler, with the support of a vast team of researchers and clinicians, studied the genomic data generated from the first 250 children enrolled on the program and have shown that ZERO identified the molecular, or genetic, basis of a child's cancer in more than 90% of cases and 70% had at least one new potential treatment option identified based on their cancer's genetic makeup. At the time of publishing this report, 32% of children for whom a therapeutic recommendation was made, had received the recommended therapy. The early results of those children showed that in 30% of cases the tumor shrank, and in some patients completely regressed. In another 40% of cases the tumor stopped growing and stabilized. According to Associate Professor Ziegler, Pediatric Oncologist, Co-Chair, ZERO's National Clinical Trial, Head, Clinical Trials Unit, Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick and Brain Tumours Group Leader, Children's Cancer Institute, "these are very optimistic early results for children with the highest risk cancers," he said. "We have shown that ZERO has the potential to find personalized, novel treatment strategies for children with the most aggressive cancers who in many cases have no other treatment options available. Patients who received the molecularly informed, recommended therapy had a much higher rate of clinical benefit than we would expect from non-targeted approaches." Associate Professor Cowley, WGS Lead, ZERO, Computational Biology Group Leader, Children's Cancer Institute said the success of the ZERO program, reported today, represents a paradigm shift in the way high risk childhood cancer can be treated. "We have developed a highly effective approach for molecularly profiling a child's cancer and extracting the medically relevant information from this complex data in a clinically relevant timeframe," he said. "We have shown that this approach informs patient diagnosis, identifies new potential treatment options, and identifies families that may be at higher risk of developing additional childhood cancers." This photo - taken earlier this year - shows Thomas after starting a trial with a drug targeted at his tumor's genetic makeup. His cancer has shrunk and he is without pain for the first time in over 6 years. Credit: Children's Cancer Institute According to Associate Professor Ekert, 'Omics Lead, ZERO, Co-Head of Theme, Personalized Medicine, Translational Tumor Biology, Group Leader, Children's Cancer Institute, the fact that in more than 90% of cases the genetic cause of the cancer was identified is important as it provides a way to systematically identify the molecular basis of most childhood cancers. "We are now able to prise open the lid of the black box of this previously poorly understood collection of diseases," he said. ZERO has helped children like Thomas, who was diagnosed at age 2 and a half, with a rare form of brain cancer. Thomas' condition was deteriorating, and after undergoing multiple surgeries and losing much of his eyesight, the treatment options were quickly running out. Once Thomas was enrolled on ZERO, a rare mutation driving his cancer growth was found, and a new experimental drug was found to target it. He had a dramatic response to this treatment with shrinkage of his tumor. Today Thomas is 8 years old and whilst he is still receiving his therapy, his future looks brighthe is back at school and able to return to the activities he enjoys. However, this long-term outcome is not yet the case for all children with cancer. Three-year-old Stella suffered with an extremely aggressive brain cancer that meant she could no longer talk, walk or eat unaided and was in palliative care when she was enrolled on the ZERO program in 2017. A genetic driver was identified in her brain tumor, and when she received the recommended targeted therapy her tumor completely disappeared, she was well enough to run around and play like any healthy child. However sadly, after 10 months of treatment her tumor grew back and she passed away on 1 August 2018. While ZERO could not save Stella, it was able prolong her life, giving her 10 months of happy and relatively healthy time with her family, that they otherwise would not have had. ZERO is changing the model of care for children with cancer by identifying new treatments specifically targeted to each child's individual cancer and facilitating access to the right drug for the right child at the right time. Thanks to $67 million in new funding announced in April 2020 from the Australian Government's Medical Research Future Fund and Minderoo Foundation to extend and scale the ZERO program, the potential of these promising early results could benefit up to 1,000 children and young people per year by end 2023. Explore further Personalized cancer therapy improves outcomes in advanced disease, says study More information: Whole genome, transcriptome and methylome profiling enhances actionable target discovery in high-risk pediatric cancer, Nature Medicine (2020). www.nature.com/articles/s41591-020-1072-4 Journal information: Nature Medicine Whole genome, transcriptome and methylome profiling enhances actionable target discovery in high-risk pediatric cancer,(2020). DOI: 10.1038/s41591-020-1072-4 Provided by Children's Cancer Institute Australia New Delhi [India], October 5 (ANI/Digpu): The IHD Marketplace INC shipped 2 million N95 Masks today to support the US Government's efforts to minimise impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) on the US health systems fighting the COVID-19 crisis. The shipment will contribute to the procurement of medical supplies and equipment for frontline public health workers. Since the crisis began, IHD Marketplace Inc.'s new G2G, G2B, B2B and B2B2C physical and online healthcare delivery platform leveraged global competitiveness of nations reinforced by a diverse team to create a unique and strong supply chain boosting the supply of crucial face masks, PPE's, testing kits, ventilators and, eventually, ensuring safety of lives. It has taken broad, fast action to help countries strengthen their pandemic response and health care systems with urgent medical supplies that are most critical to fighting the COVID-19 crisis. IHD Marketplace has taken a tremendous amount of collaboration and cooperation across many sectors globally to fight the spread of this virus, and IHD's dedicated Healthcare and supply chain divisions are working harder than ever to help procure quality cost effective medical supplies and to deliver them in fastest time by leveraging its unique global network. IHD marketplace is already delivering urgent medical supplies to countries that account for 35% of the world's population including several low-income nations, with the goal of reaching 100 countries in total by the end of 2020. With the scale and resources, IHD Marketplace has been in a unique position to handle COVID-19 response, procurement and shipments for federal and state agencies -- and for hospitals and Healthcare conglomerates with specialised needs. It supports FEMA's Project Airbridge, a public-private partnership to get vital and life-saving equipment where needed, with greater speed. IHD Marketplace Healthcare division has placed a renewed focus on quality management systems and streamlined services and patient-driven supply chains for healthcare shipments. This has allowed them to quickly mobilise healthcare team members globally in unprecedented ways to focus on the complex demands of the countries, UN agencies, private institutions and key hospitals. Specialised transport, packaging and monitoring solutions, along with customs brokerage expertise, has given IHD Marketplace an advantage to overcome transportation restrictions and navigate strict regulatory guidelines to expedite life-saving healthcare products in these challenging circumstances. Supporting continued global operation in every country where we do business is amongst the highest priorities at IHD Marketplace. IHD's operations worldwide are working aggressively to transport and expedite testing kits, personal protection equipment (PPE) and medical devices needed to support public safety and speed diagnosis and therapy for COVID-19. In some instances, with travel restrictions due to the pandemic, priority flights are chartered for urgent shipments of COVID-19-related supplies and pharma to ensure critical goods needed on the front-lines don't sit idle in warehouses. IHD Marketplace will soon announce a new solution which leverages IHD's Smart Global Logistics Network package tracking capabilities, combined with new, next-generation, on-package sensor technology to enable priority flow paths, sortation, contingency actions and delivery services for critical healthcare shipments. In the global crisis caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19), IHD Marketplace is helping client countries with urgent medical supplies by facilitating procurement that negotiates factory-level contracts directly with manufacturers and connects them to global buyers. The US government is pleased that timely commitment by IHD Marketplace enabled rapid procurement and distribution of essential medical supplies and equipment to support the immediate needs of the US health system. "At the IHD Marketplace we stand by The US and other countries in their efforts to respond to demands on the health system resulting from this emergency" said Chitwan Malhotra, Chairperson, IHD Group, IHD Marketplace INC. This story is provided by Digpu. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/Digpu) DISCLAIMER (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The global medical education market size is poised to grow by USD 129.66 billion during 2020-2024, progressing at a CAGR of over 17% throughout the forecast period, according to the latest report by Technavio. The report offers an up-to-date analysis regarding the current market scenario, latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. The report also provides the market impact and new opportunities created due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Download a Free Sample of REPORT with COVID-19 Crisis and Recovery Analysis. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201005005547/en/ Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Medical Education Market 2020-2024 (Graphic: Business Wire) Online medical courses have gained popularity among both students and universities that offer medical degrees. This is primarily because of the various benefits offered by online learning compared to traditional learning. With the availability of online medical courses, students can schedule and complete modules as per their convenience. Furthermore, online courses provide learners with opportunities to discuss topics with mentors or peers on discussion forums. Apart from these beneficial features, vendors are leveraging the ubiquitous use of smartphones and are creating mobile applications to increase their customer base. Such advances in educational technology in the medical education sector are increasing the number of online medical learning programs. This is one of the major factors that will drive medical education market growth over the forecast period. Register for a free trial today and gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform Report Highlights: The major medical education market growth came from the blended learning segment. This learning methodology involves recorded lectures, pre-class videos, online tutorials, and online assessment. Moreover, vendors are integrating augmented reality and virtual reality in blended learning courses to further improve their products and increase sales. These factors are contributing to the growth of the medical education market size in the blended learning segment. North America is one of the largest markets for medical education. Distance medical courses are gaining popularity because of their easy accessibility, flexibility in terms of time and location, and affordability. As a result, enrolments in distance-learning medical degrees are increasing in the region. These factors are accelerating business opportunities for players in the medical education market in the region. The global medical education market is fragmented. Harvard Medical School, Johns Hopkins University, New York University, Stanford University, University of California, University of Cambridge, University of New England, University of Oxford, University of Washington, and Yale University are some of the major market participants. To help clients improve their market position, this medical education market forecast report provides a detailed analysis of the market leaders. As the business impact of COVID-19 spreads, the global medical education market 2020-2024 is expected to have Positive and Superior. As the pandemic spreads in some regions and plateaus in other regions, we revaluate the impact on businesses and update our report forecasts. Read the full report here: https://www.technavio.com/report/report/medical-education-market-industry-analysis Adoption of Gamification in Medical Education will be a Key Market Trend The adoption of gamification in medical education is one of the significant medical education market trends. Gamification allows students to learn in a practical environment. The gamification method of education, such as online quizzes, is considered more engaging because of its interactive learning techniques. Institutes such as the University of Eastern Finland have already started promoting gamification in their medical education courses. Such factors will positively impact medical education market growth. Technavio's sample reports are free of charge and contain multiple sections of the report, such as the market size and forecast, drivers, challenges, trends, and more. Request a free sample report Medical Education Market 2020-2024: Key Highlights CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2020-2024 Detailed information on factors that will assist medical education market growth during the next five years Estimation of the medical education market size and its contribution to the parent market Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior The growth of the medical education market Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of medical education market vendors Buy 1 Technavio report and get the second for 50% off. Buy 2 Technavio reports and get the third for free. View market snapshot before purchasing PART 01: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY PART 02: SCOPE OF THE REPORT Preface Currency conversion rates for US$ PART 03: MARKET LANDSCAPE Market ecosystem Market characteristics Market segmentation analysis Value chain analysis PART 04: MARKET SIZING Market definition Market sizing 2019 Market Outlook Market size and forecast 2019-2024 PART 05: FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS Bargaining power of buyers Bargaining power of suppliers Threat of new entrants Threat of substitutes Threat of rivalry Market condition PART 06: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY LEARNING METHOD Market segmentation by learning method Comparison by learning method Blended learning Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Online learning Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Market opportunity by learning method PART 07: MARKET SEGMENTATION BY COURSES Market segmentation by courses Comparison of courses Graduate courses Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Certifications and trainings Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Post-graduate courses Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Market opportunity by courses PART 08: CUSTOMER LANDSCAPE PART 09: GEOGRAPHIC LANDSCAPE Geographic segmentation Geographic comparison North America Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Europe Market size and forecast 2019-2024 APAC Market size and forecast 2019-2024 South America Market size and forecast 2019-2024 MEA Market size and forecast 2019-2024 Key leading countries Market opportunity PART 10: DECISION FRAMEWORK PART 11: DRIVERS AND CHALLENGES Market drivers Market challenges PART 12: MARKET TRENDS Gamification in medical education Increase in partnerships between medical universities and associations Rise in number of medical bootcamps PART 13: VENDOR LANDSCAPE Overview Landscape disruption Competitive scenario PART 14: VENDOR ANALYSIS Vendors covered Vendor classification Market positioning of vendors Harvard Medical School Johns Hopkins University New York University Stanford University University of California University of Cambridge University of New England University of Oxford University of Washington Yale University PART 15: APPENDIX Research methodology List of abbreviations Definition of market positioning of vendors PART 16: EXPLORE TECHNAVIO 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201005005547/en/ Contacts: Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ Pakistan; Gwadar: Fishermen Protest Broken Promises Again by Mariyam Suleman October 05,2020 | Source: The Diplomat In a warm and sunny September evening, hundreds of Gwadars fishermen, young and old, gather in Dhoria a neighborhood of fishermen in the north of Gwadars old town. While Khuda Dad Waju, representative of a local organization working for fishermens rights, speaks about the rights of the indigenous population and governments broken promises, others around him listen cautiously. The attention of the listeners speaks to their concerns, and the urgency of the matter they have gathered for. It will determine whether or not they will be able to provide meals for their families in the next few months and years to come. This gathering in Dhoria is part for of a larger protest which first began in 2018 after construction work for the East Bay Expressway kicked off. The expressway is a 19-kilometer road and railway link that connects Gwadar Port with the Makran Coastal Highway. Among many other development schemes in Gwadar, this is one of the early harvest projects of the larger China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). However, the indigenous population has since 2018 been concerned over their right to live and work in their ancestral land and the impact of development. We fear, what they [the government authorities] call development, will marginalize our freedoms in our own land and ocean, the protesters say. This concern of deprivation and being left out has stirred a restiveness among the local population for years now, but their recent protests are specifically about a breakwater. A breakwater is a structure that is built out into a body of water to protect the coast from waves, often generated by large ships passing through. The protesters demand such a breakwater be built in the East Bay of Gwadar. In 2018, the fishermen forum, a local organization working for the rights of fishermen, drafted a charter of demands for the government authorities. Among many other demands, a 1,500-meter long and 800-meter wide breakwater was a key priority. But as the construction work continued, this structure didnt appear. As usual, fishermen are protesting for their very rights to have access to the sea as well as for the safety of their boats. But their concerns are growing as they [government authorities] keep cancelling tenders. This is delaying the process. And now, they have thrown another ball in the court, KB Firaaq, a local activist says, referring to environmental protection. Many protesters believe that environmental protection was not a concern when the expressway construction began and when the government approved the fishermens list of demands. But now it is. This is only another way to delay the implementation of the projects or an excuse to cancel them out altogether. In April 2019, when Prime Minister Imran Khan visited Gwadar, he announced the allocation of funds for the projects the indigenous population demanded for but that now seems another broken promise like many others, Younas Anwar a representative of the fishermen says. A public hearing with the authorities in the environmental protection agency was also recently cancelled. We now doubt if any such structure is even part of the overall construction-plan of expressway, says one of the fishermen in the Dhoria gathering. On the other hand, the minister for finance in Balochistan, Zahoor Bulaidi, told The Diplomat, All the projects connected with [the] expressway approved earlier, are still part of the overall plan. Construction work for some have already started and few are in tendering process. The finance ministry is hopeful and assures that while it might take a while, the projects are not yet cancelled. Nevertheless, the fishermen in Gwadars Dhoria now more than ever are worried over their rights to live and work in a place they have always known as home. Founder Frederick W. Pierce, IV President and CEO of Pierce Education Properties Founder Frederick W. Pierce, IV President and CEO of Pierce Education Properties The Village at Chandler Crossings (East Lansing, MI) The Village at Chandler Crossings (East Lansing, MI) San Diego, California, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Since his first acquisition in 2007, Frederick W. Pierce, IV President and CEO of Pierce Education Properties, has amassed a long list of accomplishments in the private student housing industry, including hitting a portfolio surpassing $1 billion in cumulative acquisitions on October 1, 2020. But the one that really counts now is his advice to investors: student housing is a recession resilient investment. It may seem counter intuitive. Colleges and universities across the United States find themselves on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic, making decisions for fall 2020 and into 2021 on whether students should return to campus for their education. Pierce is unapologetically bullish on privately developed student housing as a strong investment today, and for years to come despite some uncertainty about on campus learning for the remainder of 2020. You could have said, wow, all universities pivoting to 100% on-line courses could be the most challenging environment that you could imagine, says Pierce. But student housing has come through smelling like a rose. The percentage of (student housing) residents paying their rent in our portfolio has been between 96 and 97 percent in April, May, June and July during the pandemic. It underscores that our leases are backed by parental guarantees. Parents stood behind their students, stood behind their lease obligations, and supported their children's lease obligations. Its an important demonstration of resiliency. Higher education on campus more attractive in recessionary times What happens in a recession? asks Pierce. What are the options for the spring graduating class from America's universities this fall? Most are not going to get a job, unfortunately. So many graduates are going to go back to school. They'll go to graduate school, and they'll further their education. Story continues Many workers have been laid off and realize they need to retool themselves. They need to go back to school so that they're better prepared in the next up cycle to retrain for a different industry or to be better educated and more qualified for promotion. So, in down cycles, universities do better, said Pierce. The data backs Pierce up. In April, 61 percent of residents in Pierce Education Properties owned student housing a total of 18,000 beds at 24 properties remained at campus. In May, nine percent returned to campus yielding 70 percent of students living at campus. And, despite that fact, 96% to 97% paid their rent. Looking into fall 2020, a survey of more than 1,000 universities conducted by the Chronicle of Higher Education, a leading higher education periodical, found just eight percent of universities plan to provide only online instruction in the fall. I don't know if that sounds surprising to others. It's not surprising to me. Higher education is about much more than what you learn in the classroom, said Pierce. Students want to be taught in the classroom. They want the whole college experience. They don't just want to be an online student. Online learning not a long-term factor The future of higher education is not online learning. Online learning will be a component of higher education. What it will do is augment and supplement the access to higher education to those that aren't the traditional residential student graduating high school and going onto college, observed Pierce. Online learning is not a disruptor to the student housing industry. Student housing is a recession resistant asset class and most institutional investors should seriously consider having a portion of their asset allocation dedicated into this specialty sector. Pierce says students and their families now have a renewed appreciation for the college experience. Let's face it, college age kids, they like their independence, they like their lifestyle. It's not preferable for them to live at home. Frankly, it's not preferable for the parents either. ABOUT PIERCE EDUCATION PROPERTIES Founded in 1995, Pierce Education Properties (PEP) took its platform national in 2006. More than a decade later, we've grown into one of the nation's top 15 buyers and owners of student housing, and we've since acquired more than $1 billion of purpose-built student housing. Attachments CONTACT: Jack Berkman Berkman Strategic Communications 619-231-9977 jack@berkmanpr.com ATLANTA - Actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd, known for his roles in Spike Lee films, has been shot and killed in Atlanta, police said Sunday. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. In this July 2, 2008 photo, actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd appears during a portrait session in Atlanta. Police say Byrd, known for his roles in many Spike Lee films and who was nominated for a Tony Award in 2003, was shot dead in Atlanta on Saturday. He was 70. (Marcus Yam/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) ATLANTA - Actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd, known for his roles in Spike Lee films, has been shot and killed in Atlanta, police said Sunday. Police responded to a call around 1:45 a.m. Saturday and found the 70-year-old Byrd unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds in his back, police spokesman Officer Anthony Grant said in a statement. Responding paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene on the citys southwest side, where he lived. Grant said homicide detectives were working to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting and declined to provide further details. In an Instagram post Sunday, Lee said he was sad to announce Byrds death and recalled how the actor did his thang in his films including Clockers, Chi-Raq, Bamboozled, He Got Game and Da Sweet Blood of Jesus, among others. May we all wish condolences and blessings to his family, Lee wrote. Rest in peace, Brother Byrd. Lee also shared some of his favourite scenes with Byrd from Clockers and Bamboozled. Byrd, also a stage actor, was nominated in 2003 for a Tony for his performance in the Broadway revival of Ma Raineys Black Bottom, co-starring Whoopi Goldberg and Charles S. Dutton. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Oscar-winning actor Viola Davis tweeted: Oh no!!! 2020! Whaaattt!!! Loved working with you Byrd, she wrote. What a fine actor you were. So sorry your life ended this way. Praying for your family. Byrd was a brilliant dancer, actor, and friend, Elisabeth Omilami, a fellow actor and community activist, told WXIA-TV in Atlanta. He was a special person whose personality filled up the whole room when he entered you knew he was there, she said. He fought his way through this very racist and difficult Hollywood system and was able to maintain a career through it all. She said Byrd had just recently finished his last film, Freedoms Path, with her husband, actor Afemo Omilami. Actor Lori Petty tweeted: What a man, what a talent ... what a crazy loss. The EST was designed after the suspension of the SAT in Egypt until next June over 'test security issues' The test results for students in Egypt's American Diploma education system who took an Egyptian exam equivalent to the SATs, an international test used for university admissions, will be released on 7 and 8 October, said Higher Education Minister Tarek Shawki on Monday. Shawki said the ministry will send emails to inform students who have passed the exam of their scores. Students should obtain their certificates from the ministry before submitting them to their desired university or to the Tansiq office tasked with assigningstudents to public university faculties based on their scores and their preferences. The new Egyptian Scholastic Test (EST) was designed after the Manhattan-based College Board, the owner of the SATs, announced the suspension of the SAT examinations in Egypt until next June due to test security issues. The cancellation announcement was made a few hours before the final exams in August. This means that students who wanted to enroll into university this year would have to wait. Persistent [test leaks] have led to repeated test and score cancellations, despite the implementation of numerous additional security procedures. Due to these security issues, we cannot continue administering the SAT in Egypt at this time, a statement by the College Board read. Two weeks later, the ministry announced launching the first cycle of the computer-based EST, which according to the ministry, is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of Egyptian students in the American Diploma system in Egypt, before they can join Egyptian universities. The new exam serves as an alternative to the SAT or ACT international exams. It includes EST I and EST II, which resembles the SAT in structure. Since 2019, the College Board has repeatedly cancelled the SAT exams or canceled the announcement of test for Egyptian students over the leakage of exam questions. Recently, the board cancelled its exams due to the pandemic, without offering an online alternative. Search Keywords: Short link: OSLO, Norway, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Photocure ASA (OSE:PHO) today announces that the European Patent Office (EPO) has granted patent EP 2983780 covering the commercial Cevira device in Europe until 2034. Cevira is a photodynamic drug-device combination product under development for non-surgical treatment of high-grade cervical dysplasia. In July 2019, Photocure announced that it had entered into a License Agreement providing Asieris Meditech Co., Ltd (Asieris) with a world-wide license to develop and commercialize Cevira for the treatment of HPV induced cervical precancerous lesions. In July 2020, Asieris received China NMPA's approval to start a global Phase III clinical trial for APL-1702 (Cevira). The EP 2983780 patent covering the commercial Cevira device in Europe, will expire 09 April 2034. Notes to editors About Cevira Cevira is a photodynamic drug-device combination product that is being developed for non-surgical treatment of high-grade cervical dysplasia. Cevira is easily placed on the cervix by the gynecologist and removed by the patient, with no disruption of normal daily activities. Only one or two treatments are needed. About Cervical dysplasia High-grade cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) is a precancerous condition caused by a persistent HPV infection, a highly prevalent sexually transmitted disease resulting in approximately 10 million cases with high grade disease and > 500 000 new cases of cervical cancer each year. In China, 1-2% of women have HSIL each year. Currently, surgical excision is the most common treatment option offered to women with cervical high-grade dysplasia. In women of childbearing age in particular there is a high medical need for a non-surgical option which preserves the cervical anatomy and function. No such medical alternative is approved to date. About Photocure Photocure: The Bladder Cancer Company delivers transformative solutions to improve the lives of bladder cancer patients. Our unique technology, making cancer cells glow bright pink, has led to better health outcomes for patients worldwide. Photocure is headquartered in Oslo, Norway and listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (OSE: PHO). For more information, please visit us at www.photocure.com, www.hexvix.com, www.cysview.com All trademarks mentioned in this release are protected by law and are registered trademarks of Photocure ASA CONTACT: For further information, please contact: Photocure Dan Schneider President and CEO Tel: +1-609 759-6515 Email: [email protected] Erik Dahl CFO Tel: +47 45055000 Email: [email protected] Media and IR enquiries: Geir Bjrlo Corporate Communications (Norway) Tel: +47 91540000 Email: [email protected] This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/photocure/r/photocure-announces-new-cevira-patent-in-europe,c3210191 The following files are available for download: SOURCE Photocure 04.10.2020 LISTEN ...So goes an old common blessing given to an Indian bride, talks of gender equality notwithstanding. While the small family norm slogan of 'hum do, hamare do' (we two, ours two) has rubbed in well the penchant for begetting at least one son has not waned. Many modern Indian women find their womanhood incomplete without begetting a son. I know of several highly educated and professionally qualified young Indian women who heaved a sigh of relief and smug satisfaction on having a boy as their first or second born. A complete Indian family is envisaged as one with two kids- at least one of who ought be a son. This is what centuries of patriarchy entrenched in our society has done to our psyche, which even a Harvard degree is unable to wipe out. One shudders to think of the plight of the less privileged ones. No wonder Indias sex ratio at birth stands at 919 girls for every 1000 boys. While the Pre-conception and Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act prohibits sex-selection of the foetus, its enforcement is lax, resulting in high incidences of female foeticide in many states. Ironically, those very families who have no qualms about killing the female foetus, revel in worshipping female deities with great pomp and show. Having access to reproductive justice that entails "the human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children in safe and sustainable communities" is a far cry for most women, not only in India but in many countries of the Asia Pacific region. The term reproductive justice was coined and formulated as an organizing framework by a group of Black women in Chicago in 1994, just ahead of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) in Cairo. Reproductive justice links reproductive rights (legal rights to access reproductive health care services including abortion and birth control) with the social, political and economic inequalities that affect a womans ability to access reproductive health care services. Core components of reproductive justice include equal access to safe abortion, affordable contraceptives and comprehensive sex education, as well as freedom from sexual violence. A fiery and enlightened panel of women activists aired their views on these issues during a recent online session of the 10th Asia Pacific Conference on Reproductive and Sexual Health and Rights (APCRSHR10), focussing on safe abortion in the region. Mortality due to unsafe abortions still remains high at 13% of all maternal deaths in South East and South Asia. Abortion is illegal in 3 Asian countries- Iraq, Laos and Philippines. 17 countries allow abortion without restrictions and others allow it only under certain conditions. But even in countries like Cambodia, India and Nepal, that have liberal abortion laws, many women continue to face a host of barriers to obtaining safe, legal procedures. In Thailand, despite access to safe abortion services and contraceptives, teenage pregnancy remains a challenge. Stigma, coupled with lack of information, makes these services more inaccessible to unmarried women. Sivananthi Thanenthiran, Executive Director, ARROW (Asian-Pacific Resource and Research Centre for Women), blames it upon the growing influence of religious fundamentalism and its anti-gender ideology with the rise in right wing governments. "Extremist ideologies thrive on asserting control over womens bodies, autonomy, sexuality and their daily lives. This confluence of conservative religious, cultural and customary practices is often interlinked with the pursuit of power. Criminalisation of abortion is a tool of patriarchy and structural racism. Safe abortion for women is not just about choice, but also about access. Governments should eliminate all legal barriers that limit women's access to sexual and reproductive health services, commodities and information, including access to safe abortion. Generating evidence based data on abortion and related issues through a rights-based analytical framework is essential to influence policy and strengthen advocacy and accountability", she asserts. Dr Suchitra Dalvie, co-founder and Coordinator of the Asia Safe Abortion Partnership, roots for recognizing the political significance of safe self-managed abortions that governments should make available to pregnant women as a valid and safe choice, and not in situations where they are forced to do it underground. According to her, a pregnant woman should have enough accurate information to be able to self-assess her pregnancy, self-procure the pills and self-conduct the process of abortion in a location of her choice without having to visit a medical facility. She should also be able to access a healthcare provider if need be at any stage of the process. self-administered medical abortion Self-administered medical abortion has been proposed as a strategy to reduce burden on the health systems and to provide convenience for women. And there is data to support the safety of such self managed abortions. A systematic review of 18 randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies from 10 countries, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Vietnam and China, shows that self-administered medical abortion is as safe and effective as the one that is administered by a healthcare provider. So, women can effectively and safely induce their own early medical abortion through self-administration and may not require full supervision of a provider during any stage of the drug regimen. Presenting these findings Katherine Gambir, Research Advisor at Womens Refugee Commission, said that, Policy makers at global and national levels should consider amending medical abortion guidelines to offer women the choice to self administer early medical abortion procedures with or without clinical guidance, thereby alleviating the burden on overburdened healthcare systems. This is especially important in the context of COVID-19 when health systems are strained and access to clinic-based care is restricted. Also we are seeing an increase in gender based violence including intimate partner violence, which emphasises the urgency to ensure that women have access to sexual and reproductive healthcare and contraceptives, including emergency contraceptives and self-administered medical abortion. comprehensive abortion care Favourable legal environments are the first step in providing comprehensive abortion care by healthcare providers even in humanitarian settings, where women and girls face increased risk of unsafe abortions arising out of various forms of sexual and gender based violence and resulting in maternal mortality and morbidity. Comprehensive abortion care includes menstrual regulation - a procedure to regulate the menstrual cycle to ensure a non-pregnancy; post-abortion care; and contraceptive provision and counselling. Maria Persson, Sexual and Reproductive Health Expert at Ipas Bangladesh (who was a Research Assistant at Karolinska Institutet when the study was conducted), shared the example of comprehensive abortion care provision in Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh, which is home to more than 900,000 Rohingya refugees displaced from Myanmar. The Bangladesh government, with help from civil society organisations, leads this humanitarian response, through healthcare facilities that provide free abortion care services. Induced abortion in Bangladesh is illegal, unless the womans life is in danger. But menstrual regulation (a simple and inexpensive procedure that uses manual vacuum aspiration to make it impossible to be pregnant after missing a period) is legally permitted up to 10 weeks of gestation and is widely practised in healthcare facilities. Also a combination of mifepristone and misoprotol for medical abortion has been legalised since 2012. Persson said that the legalisation of menstrual regulation coupled with collaboration between civil society organisations and the government has made provision of comprehensive abortion care possible in Cox's Bazar. Integrating the full package of comprehensive abortion care services in the primary healthcare system to address women's multiple sexual and reproductive health needs, training on menstrual regulation policy and abortion law and in-service training can ensure provision of quality care that is woman-centred and non-judgmental. Indonesia- a Muslim nation- is another country where abortion is legally permissible only in medical indications, severe congenital defects and rape cases. The governments family planning programme is only for married couples and contraceptives for unmarried women are not available. Abortion is generally stigmatized and there is a sensitivity for using the word even in health facilities. Sharing this information, Riznawaty Imma Aryanty, Reproductive Health programme specialist at the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Indonesia, made a case for having proper comprehensive sexual education for adolescents. It is also very important to have data on abortion and abortion-related complications. For example, if there are so many abortion complications, it would be an indication of unsafe abortion practices and force policymakers to do something about it. So we have to bring more data to the discussion table, and interpret it in an understanding manner to improve the situation, she says. While Indonesias interpretation of Islam is fairly liberal, yet its understanding of abortion is far more restrictive. Riznawaty sees the need of enlisting the support of moderate religious leaders and raising their voices to advance the cause of sexual and reproductive health and rights for women. Abortion is essential healthcare Agrees Amy Williamson, Country Director, Marie Stopes International, Cambodia, who was also the Chair of the eighth session of APCRSHR10: restrictive access to abortion is tied up in outdated laws and policies and the current pandemic has only made it more urgent that these policies are changed to prevent an increase in unintended pregnancies, births and unsafe abortions. It is more important now than ever that abortion is recognised by governments and within health systems as essential healthcare. We need to take the stigma out of it and make it comfortable for everyone to speak about it, especially the young. Yes, we need safe abortion services for everyone. But, as someone remarked, our long term goal - which should be achieved as soon as possible - must be to ensure every pregnancy is wanted and no unintended pregnancy is conceived at all. This can happen only if women and men can access and use options to prevent them. The wall of hegemonic control that patriarchy wields on women's sexual and reproductive lives has to be demolished. A Kentucky court clerk who was jailed five years ago for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples has lost her Supreme Court appeal and can now be personally sued by those she denied. Kim Davis, a former clerk in Rowan County, made headlines in 2015 after she stopped issuing marriage licenses due to her religious objections against gay relationships. A self-proclaimed devout Christian, Davis was sued over her unconstitutional refusal to issue the licenses and subsequently jailed for five days for contempt after she defied a judges order to resume issuing them. Davis had argued that, as a government employee, a legal doctrine called qualified immunity protected her from being sued for damages by couples David Ermold and David Moore as well as James Yates and William Smith Jr. However that claim was unanimously rejected by the Supreme Court on Monday, issuing the two couples the green light to henceforth with their suits against her. Kim Davis (above in 2015), a former clerk in Rowan County, has lost her Supreme Court appeal and can now be personally sued by those she denied Davis had argued that, as a government employee, a legal doctrine called qualified immunity protected her from being sued for damages by couples David Ermold and David Moore (left) as well as James Yates and Will Smith (right). But the claim was rejected The prolonged legal battle involving Davis came in the immediate wake of the Supreme Courts landmark 2015 decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, in which the court ruled same-sex couples have the constitutional right to marry. Davis lawyers told the judge the case was about whether the law forces an all-or-nothing choice between same-sex marriage on the one hand and religious liberty on the other. Davis was sued over her unconstitutional refusal to issue the licenses and subsequently jailed for five days for contempt after she defied a judges order to resume issuing them However, lawyers for the two couples said the issue was actually far less ambiguous: whether government officials have immunity when they act in a way that they know is in breach of the law. No reasonable officer would have assumed that state law allowed her to grant herself an exemption from her duty to issue marriage licenses, they argued. Although conservative Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel A. Alito Jr. said they agreed with the courts decision not to take Davis case, they renewed their criticism of the Obergefell decision, saying it bypassed the democratic process and left people with religious objections to same-sex marriage in the lurch. Davis may have been one of the first victims of this courts cavalier treatment of religion in its Obergefell decision, but she will not be the last, Thomas wrote. Due to Obergefell, those with sincerely held religious beliefs concerning marriage will find it increasingly difficult to participate in society without running afoul of Obergefell and its effect on other anti-discrimination laws. Thomas continued: It would be one thing if recognition for same-sex marriage had been debated and adopted through the democratic process, with the people deciding not to provide statutory protections for religious liberty under state law. 'But it is quite another when the court forces that choice upon society through its creation of atextual constitutional rights and its ungenerous interpretation of the Free Exercise Clause, leaving those with religious objections in the lurch. Throughout the course of Davis's indignance, she also denied a license to Robbie Blankenship and his partner of 20 years, Jesse Cruz, of Corpus Christie, Texas, who are pictured above celebrating receiving their license on September 4, 2015 Supporters of Kim Davis are seen demonstrating outside of the court on September 9, 2019, as captured by DailyMail.com Although conservative Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel A. Alito Jr. (left to right) said they agreed with the courts decision not to take Davis case, they renewed their criticism of the Obergefell decision, saying it bypassed the democratic process and left people with religious objections to same-sex marriage in the lurch Still, Thomas and Alito said they agreed with the court's decision not to accept the case, because it did not cleanly present the questions they believe are raised by the courts 5-to-4 Obergefell decision. Nevertheless, this petition provides a stark reminder of the consequences of Obergefell, Thomas wrote. By choosing to privilege a novel constitutional right over the religious liberty interests explicitly protected in the First Amendment, and by doing so undemocratically, the court has created a problem that only it can fix. Davis, a Republican, lost her bid for reelection in 2018 by 644 votes. Democrat Elwood Caudill Jr. is now the county's clerk. When Davis infamously refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples, one of the people she denied access to was David Ermold, along with his partner, David Moore. At the time, Davis said she was acting 'under God's authority' by refusing to grant the license. It is not a light issue for me. It is a heaven or hell decision, Davis said in a statement at the time, citing her religion of Apostolic Christianity. She added that she didnt want her name and title affixed to a same-sex marriage license that goes down in the annals of Kentucky history. Former Rowan County Clerk Kim Davis is seen celebrating upon her release from prison in 2015 Throughout the course of Davis's indignance, she also denied a license to Robbie Blankenship and his partner of 20 years, Jesse Cruz, of Corpus Christie, Texas. Five of her deputies then agreed to issue marriage licenses in her absence, and the Rowan County Clerk's Office began doing so the following day. Cruz and Blakenship ultimately retrieved their license two days later, on September 4, 2015. Ermold, meanwhile later announced a bid to run against Davis in her drive re-election, but missed out on the nomination after losing the primary by more than 1,000 votes. Next month, the Supreme Court will hear a case from Philadelphia that further explores tensions between religious liberty and anti-discrimination laws. In the case, a Catholic charity is challenging the citys decision to prevent it from participating in a program that places children in foster care because the charity has said it will refuse to place the kids with same-sex couples. The absence of Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court, Abuja, and Abdulrasheed Maina, ex-Chairman, Pension Reform Task Team (PRTT), on Monday, stalled the continuation of the ongoing money laundering trial. Although Justice Abang and Mr Maina were not in court for the days proceedings, Ali Ndume, who is standing as surety for the ex-pension reformed boss, was in court. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arraigned Mr Maina before Justice Abang, on October 25, 2019, alongside his son, Faisal; and firm, Common Input Property and Investment Ltd. Although Mr Maina is facing 12-counts bordering on money laundering, he has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. The former pension reform chairman was recently released from Kuje Prison nine months after he was able to produce the senator who deposed to an affidavit to always bring the 1st defendant to court at every adjourned date or forfeit the N500 million bail bond. NAN also reports that Mr Ndume, who represents Borno South in the National Assembly, had told the court, on October 2, that he did not know the whereabouts of Mr Maina after the 1st defendant was absent from court for the third time. The judge, in the last sitting, had ordered Mr Ndume to produce Mr Maina unfailing at todays (Mondays) proceeding or he would be forced to grant the EFCCs prayers to revoke Mr Mainas bail and issue a warrant of arrest against him. Besides, the anti-graft agency had also prayed the court to make an order for the lawmaker to forfeit the N500 million bail bond to the Federal Government and be remanded in prison pending the time he was able to meet the pledge. At the resumed trial on Monday, the counsel to the parties and Mr Ndume were all in court at about 9am but Justice Abang and Mr Maina were not in court. Mr Mainas case was number two on the course list. The court registrar after litigants in cases scheduled for the day had waited for over an hour, announced that the days sitting would not be holding. The court is indisposed and all criminal cases slated for today will be adjourned until tomorrow, Tuesday, including the case between the Federal Government and Abdulrasheed Maina, the registrar said. All efforts to interview Mr Ndume were unsuccessful as the lawmaker said he would not speak since the court did not sit. (NAN) He is trying to say something, but is still very weak. Co-chairman of the European Solidarity parliamentary faction, Member of Parliament Iryna Gerashchenko says former Russian political prisoner Volodymyr Balukh has regained consciousness after a recent assault in Kyiv. "Finally, good news from V. Balukh's doctors: the patient is conscious, performing elementary instructions, trying to say something, but is still very weak," she wrote on Facebook on October 5. "It's a pity that Volodymyr is in hospital now, and not in the election campaign he was supposed to be our frontman for Kyiv Regional Council," Gerashchenko added. Read also Police classify assault on Balukh as robbery Assault on Balukh: Background Former Russian political prisoner Oleh Sentsov said Volodymyr Balukh had been assaulted in Kyiv overnight Tuesday, September 8. Meanwhile, September 7 marked a year since his successful return to Ukraine after he had been released from a Russian prison. Sentsov said Balukh was found in the morning, with his arm and collarbone fractured. Balukh underwent surgery, having suffered a severe head injury. He has since remained in serious but stable condition. On September 11, Balukh was put in a medically induced coma. On September 18, police detained a suspect in the assault on Balukh. On September 19, the court ruled to arrest the suspect for two months without the possibility of posting bail. Who is Volodymyr Balukh A homeless man 'who smashed his way into a sleeping teenage girl's bedroom and tried to rape her' has been charged after evading the police for four months. Marlon Alvarez, 31, was charged with attempted rape, burglary, sex abuse and forcible touching for the alleged attack inside the 15-year-old girl's apartment in the Bronx, New York City. Police said on Saturday that Alvarez broke through the girl's bedroom window at around 4.30 a.m. on May 30 before attacking her in her sleep, but they were unable to track him down until Friday. Marlon Alvarez, 31, has been charged with attempted rape, burglary, sex abuse and forcible touching for the alleged attack on a 15-year-old girl in her bedroom in the Bronx The NYPD said the girl woke up to find Alvarez on top of her and trying to rape her. She woke up and screamed, causing her mother to chase him out of their apartment and call the cops. While the girl was shaken up, she was not injured, police said. Police sent out a CrimeStoppers alert at the time, but they said he was hard to locate on account of him being homeless. Alvarez was finally spotted in Mott Haven on Friday and taken in by the authorities, the police said. He is now waiting for an appearance in Bronx Criminal Court for his arraignment. Donald Trump; Taxes Getty/Salon Finally Trump's tax returns have been made public. Here are the 10 big things you need to know about them: 1. Did he break the law? Almost surely. Details of tax practices suggest fraud on a massive scale. As Michael Bromwich, a former inspector general at the Justice Department, said yesterday, based on the Times's story, Trump faces federal and state prosecution for bank fraud, tax fraud, wire fraud, and mail fraud, as does his entire family. 2. How little has he paid in taxes? In 11 of the 18 years examined, Trump paid no taxes at all. In his first year in office he paid the most income tax he had paid in a decade: $750. He has deducted taxes for almost everything imaginable, including $70,000 for hairstyling. 3. But he paid taxes in other nations where he did business? Yes, in 2017, when he paid $750 to the U.S., he paid $15,598 in Panama $145,400 in India $156,824 in the Philippines. So much for America first. 4. Why did Trump run for president? He was deeply in debt in 2015, and was, as his former fixer Michael Cohen said, eager to rebuild his brand by running for president. The presidency has injected cash into Trump's businesses, as lobbyists and foreign governments have invested in them. But he's still losing money. 5. How broke is he? He owes more than $300 million in loans and can't repay them. His businesses are constantly losing money. He's fighting with the IRS and could owe another $100 million to the government. So much for the "successful businessman" image. 6. Who does he owe money to? We don't know. And that's part of the problem. Because whoever he does has huge leverage over him. 7. Does this make Trump a national security risk? You bet. Note that a bipartisan group of nearly 500 national security officials, past and present, last week endorsed Biden for president. The list includes retired General Paul Selva, who served as vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for the first two and a half years of Trump's presidency. Story continues 8. Why is he so desperate to stay in power? Presumably because a sitting president cannot be indicted, and he won't have to face federal and state prosecution. 9. What's Trump's reaction to this bombshell? Not surprisingly, he claims it's "totally fake news." But the easiest way to refute it would be to make his tax returns public, which he refuses to do. 10. Will this bombshell affect the election? Probably not. His followers live in a Fox News bubble that this news won't permeate. It will only confirm what the rest of us already knew. Trump is a conman and a crook. Related Articles It's hard enough trying to figure out where the economy and stock market might be headed in three months, let alone nearly a decade from now. Still, certain trends are in place that might point to great investment potential many years down the road. Analysts at investment researcher Morningstar dusted off their crystal balls for a glimpse of where they see growth potential by 2030. They unveiled these forecasts and possible stock picks to bet on now at the company's annual investment conference presented virtually in mid-September. Save better, spend better: Money tips and advice delivered right to your inbox. Sign up here Cannabis: Moving mainstream Marijuana has been associated with illicit drug use for decades, but chemicals found in the plants proved helpful for relaxation, pain relief and other medicinal needs. Eleven states have legalized recreational cannabis use, 33 others allow medicinal use and these totals will probably increase, predicted Kristoffer Inton, a Morningstar analyst who covers the industry. Arizona, which legalized medical cannabis in 2010, is home to a market packed with a variety of products. Supreme Court: Amy Coney Barrett could influence workers' rights, other economic issues This restaurant's revenue is up: Here's how owners can survive even in COVID-19 winter Most marijuana/cannabis use is on the black market, but attitudes and laws are changing. Morningstar projects that the current rate of $10 billion in legal U.S. cannabis sales could swell to $80 billion by 2030, and similar growth in Canada. Factors driving wider adoption include more states legalizing cannabis, partly to reap tax revenue, and a growing number of consumers. Inton expects many black market marijuana users will become legal cannabis consumers because of greater product safety and choices, such as edible forms of the drug. Of the hundreds of companies engaged in cannabis operations, Inton said his two favorites are domestic producers Curaleaf Holdings (CURLF) and Green Thumb Industries (GTBIF). He suggested following five others: Aphria (APHA), Aurora Cannabis (ACB), Canopy Growth (CGC), Cronos (CRON) and Tilray (TLRY). Story continues Among risks, cannabis companies have been striving to build up operations and win market share, which means many are burning through cash and might not have the financing to survive to 2030, Inton said. That risk is overshadowed by regulatory uncertainty how quickly and in what forms state governments might legalize use. The 5G 'evolution' More. Better. Faster. The advent of advanced 5G or fifth-generation cellular standards will allow more phone, internet, computing and other devices to connect with one another and operate more efficiently and at lower cost, opening broad applications across industries and society overall. 5G is certainly going to be one of the biggest stories of 2020 as each of the major wireless carriers continues their network rollout. From a technological and investment standpoint, Morningstar analyst Michael Hodel sees the transformation as more "evolutionary than revolutionary," as the emerging standard builds on 4G capabilities. It will "leverage technology to drive innovation," he said. Many types of corporations and industries could benefit, and Hodel recommended a mix of investment ideas to capitalize on the trend. His favorite 5G plays include Skyworks (SWKS), Qualcomm (QCOM) and Qorvo (QRVO). He suggested Nokia (NOK) among cellphone makers, Verizon (VZ) for telecom services and DISH (DISH), which is developing a nontraditional wireless network. Electric vehicles: What's in the garage? Electric vehicles have made great strides, and that momentum will accelerate in the coming decade, said Morningstar analyst Seth Goldstein, who predicted one in five new vehicles sold globally by 2030 will be electric. Electric cars and trucks will be able to travel farther on a single charge, and they will be able to charge more quickly in five to 10 minutes compared with a half-hour or more now. More public charging stations will be available, making extended road trips feasible, and prices will come down. Goldstein expects electric vehicles will become cheaper than gasoline-powered vehicles by around 2025, factoring in total operating costs purchase price, fuel, maintenance and more. "They will become cheaper, and without subsidies," Goldstein said, though he cautioned that tax credits and other incentives will be needed for a few more years. Investors have many ways to participate in the industry's growth. Goldstein likes vehicle manufacturers General Motors (GM) and BMW (BMW). His other picks include parts supplier BorgWarner (BWA), lithium producers Albemarle (ALB) and SQM (SQM) and battery maker Panasonic (6752). Risks, in his view, include any efforts to remove tax incentives too quickly or delay construction of the charging station network. Renewable energy gaining power Alternative energy sources, including solar and wind power, will supplant the burning of fossil fuels, but it won't happen by 2030, predicted Travis Miller, another Morningstar analyst. "Solar and wind alone can't power the (electricity) grid 24 hours and seven days a week," he said. Still, he expects progress over the coming decade to the point where renewable energy sources account for 22% of electricity generation by 2030, up from 8% currently. Polices adopted by states to encourage alternative energy use will drive some demand, and so will corporations. Companies, including Walmart, Google, Apple, Bank of America, General Motors and Facebook, vowed to greatly reduce their carbon footprints in coming years. As alternative energy sources become available, costs will come down. "Renewables will get cheaper," Miller said. Morningstar analyst Travis Miller likes Phoenix-based First Solar, one of the largest manufacturers of solar panels in the world. He likes Phoenix-based First Solar (FSLR), one of the largest manufacturers of solar panels in the world, along with NextEra Energy (NEE), which has operations in renewable energy as well as the utility industry through Florida Power & Light. Edison International (EIX) is helping to build out the infrastructure to support renewable energy and operates the utility Southern California Edison. Pharmaceuticals: Still favorable Morningstar views the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries as solid long-term growth prospects. In part, this reflects more companies shifting their research and development toward treating high-demand diseases where pricing power is better, said Karen Andersen, a Morningstar analyst. Innovation offers more opportunities to treat diseases including cancer, and the Food and Drug Administration has shown a willingness to get new drugs to market faster, she said. One risk she cited for companies is the possibility of a fundamental change in the way Americans pay for health care, such as Medicare shifting to a single-payer model, which could lower drug prices. The same could happen if U.S. drug prices were pegged to a basket or mix of prices in foreign nations. Many pharmaceutical and biotech companies could see solid profit and revenue growth. Andersen cited Roche (RHHBY), Merck (MRK) and Biogen (BIIB) as her favorites. Reach Wiles at russ.wiles@arizonarepublic.com. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 5 industries that might offer long-term investment potential Films will be delivered to your home for this years Wexford Documentary Film Festival 'If you can't come to the festival, the festival will come to you.' That's the motto for this year's Wexford Documentary Film Festival (WDFF), an event which, like so many, has had to adapt to the times we live in. But whereas many of its contemporaries have gone virtual for 2020, the organisers of the WDFF wanted to do something a little different. Having worked all summer in the hope of staging the festival the team had to cancel this month's screenings, but Augustine O'Donoghue says the team always had a backup plan in the offing. 'It was a bitter disappointment (not to host it), after all the hard work that had been done,' Augustine says. 'We knew all along there was the possibility that the festival may not happen, so we had a Plan B. 'We figured if people couldn't come to the festival this year, well then we'd bring the festival to them.' And so the 'Festival at Home' was created; a concept which will enable people to order a film from the festival programme and have it delivered directly to their home for free by the festival team. 'A lot of festivals have gone online this year, but it didn't feel like the right solution for our festival,' explained Andi McGarry from the festival team. 'An important part of this festival is about the community coming together. We didn't want to lose that personal touch and connection with our audience. 'We are also aware that broadband connection can be an issue for many people in rural areas, something the festival team had encountered during their many Zoom calls throughout the lockdown.' The 'Festival at Home' programme contains some amazing home-grown films, including a selection from Wexford. Anna McDonagh, a student from Gorey School of Art will be showing her first ever film called Camphill - a community without walls a documentary about Camphill Duffcarrraig in Ballymoney. Al Butler, from Enniscorthy has a film Twenty yards from a crow, which is a fascinating film that looks at the world of crows with much of the footage for the film shot around Wexford county. 'We are really happy that the festival can support Wexford filmmakers and get their work shown to the public during what is a very challenging time for the cultural industry in Ireland, says Andi. 'Filmmakers really appreciate and value having the opportunity to show their work to the public.' Films in the programme cross a wide variety of genre from documentary, animation to experimental artist film. Some of the short films featured in the programme were made entirely during lockdown which is credit to the spirit and ingenuity of the filmmakers. The 'Festival at Home' program will be available to audiences living in Wexford County, and films will be delivered free of charge to their doorstep by our team. Keogh's crisps have kindly donated some free tasty gourmet popcorn treats which will be delivered with the film. The festival at home event has four different film boxes some include options for films on DVD or on a USB key. Booking of films open on Monday, September 21 and the team expect to start delivery of films to people's homes in the following weeks. The festival is limiting the film boxes to one per household. Details of the films can be found on the festival website www.wexforddocumentaryfilmfestival.ie Mumbai, Oct. Oct 5 : The Maharashtra Congress on Monday carried out 'satyagraha' in all districts demanding that the Uttar Pradesh government 'reveal the truth' and give justice to the female Dalit victim of the Hathras tragedy. "The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party government there is trying to hide something or protect someone, right from the beginning in this brutal case. The victim's family was not permitted to meet anyone. The leader of opposition and even the media were forcibly stopped from meeting the family," said Congress President and Revenue Minister Balasaheb Thorat. Leading the statewide agitation near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in south Mumbai, Thorat reiterated that UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is "attempting to suppress" the Hathras case, but the Congress Party will stand solid behind the victim's family. "It is shocking that the local BJP leaders and former legislators are conducting meetings in support of the accused in the brutal case, the victim's family was isolated from the society by blatant misuse of police force... The UP CM has handled it in a very insensitive manner," Thorat said. The Congress leader said that despite the nationwide furore, the UP CM is attempting to divert attention by accusing the Opposition parties of a ridiculous charge of fuelling riots there. He pointed out that atrocities and violence against the Dalit, minorities and women have shot up not only in UP but in all other BJP-ruled states and the common masses have lost faith in the party. Thorat endorsed the call by several Congress top leaders that the UP government order a judicial inquiry under the supervision of the Supreme Court and the suspension of Hathras Collector immediately for a free and impartial probe. Top leaders of the Congress, its affiliates, women, student and union wings, ministers, MPs, legislators in Mumbai and at all district headquarters along with a large number of party activists joined the agitation. White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said in a statement Monday that she has tested positive for the coronavirus. The announcement came as White House officials said they are hopeful that President Donald Trump will be discharged later Monday from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. McEnany, who frequently interacts with senior White House officials and the White House press corps, said she is experiencing no symptoms. The press secretary said she tested positive Monday after testing negative since Thursday, when it was revealed that a top Trump aide, Hope Hicks, had tested positive for the coronavirus. McEnany said that she "definitively had no knowledge" that Hicks had tested positive before McEnany held a briefing at the White House with reporters on Thursday. Meanwhile, the White House said that Vice President Mike Pence has tested negative again for the novel coronavirus and will head to Utah later Monday as scheduled in advance of his planned debate on Wednesday with the Democratic vice-presidential nominee, Sen. Kamala Harris. Both Pence and his wife, Karen, tested negative on Monday morning, Pence's office indicated. The Pences are scheduled to leave from Joint Base Andrews at 3 p.m. en route to Salt Lake City, the site of the debate. With Trump's hospitalization, the vice-presidential debate is expected to focus heavily on the administration's handling of the pandemic. Pence is also scheduled to campaign Thursday in Arizona, a battleground state. Stormont Finance Minister Conor Murphy has announced that agency workers within the Civil Service will soon benefit from parity of pay and annual leave. Currently agency workers are entitled to the same basic employment and working conditions as if they had been recruited directly after 12 weeks of working for the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS). This is to end in December and a tender has been put out for a new contract for a supplier of staff. The finance minister's new initiative means they will have the same pay and annual leave as permanent staff the moment they begin working for the service or its arms length bodies. Minister Murphy said: As is the case in many organisations, agency workers play a key role in the civil service and the delivery of services. "Under this new contract, agency workers will have parity with civil service permanent colleagues in terms of pay, annual leave and paid time off for medical and dental appointments from day one. The civil service is committed to looking after the health and wellbeing of all those working in the NICS. I believe these enhanced arrangements for agency workers demonstrate our commitment to workers rights." The civil service employs over 23,000 people in Northern Ireland. At the last count there was over 2,500 agency staff. One thousand of those were contracted by the Department for Work and Pensions in London. In May Mr Murphy's Department of Finance approved a 2% pay rise for the civil service, which was backdated to August, 2019 and costing around 23m. At the time he said there was a need for reform of the civil service to allow more "agile" working practices and approaches to recruitment. Mr Murphy said there would be a focus on "mental health, expansion of the NICS diversity and inclusion programme, and completion of the harmonisation of terms and conditions between industrial and non-industrial staff". Sinn Fein MLA Jemma Dolan welcomed the announcement on pay and holiday leave parity by the minister. The Fermanagh South Tyrone MLA said: "Agency workers play a key role within the civil service and it is important they have the same rights and entitlements as those they work alongside. "This is a step forward for workers' rights and equality." Kolkata: A local BJP leader in West Bengal was shot dead Sunday by two bike-borne assailants near Titagarh in North 24 Parganas district, police said. The gunmen opened fire on Manish Sukla, a local councillor, on B T Road in the evening, following which he was taken to a private hospital, where he was declared brought dead, they said. The BJP leadership blamed the Trinamool Congress for the incident, but the ruling party has rejected the accusation. "It is shameful that the TMC has now started politics of annihilation of political opponents. We don't have any faith in local police as this happened in front of the police station. We want a CBI inquiry," BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said. BJP MP Arjun Singh also held the TMC responsible for Shukla's "killing" and claimed that shots were fired at him from a carbine. Shukla, who switched over to the saffron party last year, was considered to be close to Singh. Senior TMC leader Nirmal Ghosh said the incident was a result of infighting within the BJP and allegations against his party were baseless. A huge police contingent was rushed to the spot after Shukla was gunned down around 9.30 pm. "We have started an investigation and will look at all possible angles," a senior police officer said. The BJP has called a 12-hour bandh in Barrackpore area on Monday in protest against the incident. Meanwhile, governor Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed concern over the law and order situation in the state and summoned the Additional Chief Secretary, Home, and the DGP on Monday morning. "ACS Home @MamataOfficial and DGP @WBPolice have been summoned at 10 am tomorrow in the wake of worsening law and order situation leading to the dastardly killing of Manish Shukla, Councillor, Titagarh Municipality in political party office," Dhankhar said in a tweet. Samsung Galaxy S20 FE is coming to India tomorrow if a new report is to go by. The FE in the name of the smartphone stands for Fan Edition, essentially offering a lot of features for less price. The design of the Galaxy S20 FE is like those on the Galaxy S20 and Galaxy Note 20 series phones, but there are some variations in the specifications. But one thing that is still top-class and straight-up borrowed from the expensive counterparts that you get on the Galaxy S20 FE is the 120Hz AMOLED screen. It is premium and probably as good as the one on Galaxy S20 and Galaxy Note 20 phones. The Galaxy S20 FE launched globally a few weeks back, about a month after the Galaxy Note 20 series phones made their debut. Per Gadgets 360 report, Samsung has confirmed the Galaxy S20 FE will arrive in India on Tuesday, October 6. It said that only the 4G variant of the Galaxy S20 FE will launch in India. There is a 5G variant of the smartphone that went official in the global market but, rightly, that is not headed to India, owing to the lack of the necessary infrastructure for 5G connectivity -- although that paucity has not stopped brands such as Realme, Oppo, and Vivo from launching 5G handsets. Besides, there is going to be a single storage configuration that will see the light of day in India, according to Gadgets 360. Only the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage model will hit the stores in India; the remaining two variants -- 6GB, 128GB and 8GB, 256GB -- will not likely make it to the Indian market. The Galaxy S20 FE will arrive in India in Cloud Red, Cloud Lavender, Cloud Mint, Cloud Navy, and Cloud White colourways. Interestingly, there is a sixth colour variant that is available globally but, guess, will not launch in India. Samsung has not spilled the beans on what the Galaxy S20 FE will cost in India. Although it did say that the price for the phone is going to be "extremely competitive", per the report. The Galaxy S20 FE costs $699 for the 5G model in the US. Basis direct currency conversion, the Galaxy S20 FE 5G should cost around Rs 51,000 in India but we are not getting the 5G version in India. Reportedly, it is going to be a 4G variant that will launch in India, which presumably will cost much less. For its specifications, the Galaxy S20 FE will come with 6.5-inch 1080p Super AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is powered by an octa-core Exynos 990 processor and runs Android 10-based One UI 2.0. It has three cameras on the back of the Galaxy S20 FE: a 12-megapixel primary F1.8 sensor OIS support, a 12-megapixel secondary F2.2 sensor with an ultrawide-angle lens with 123-megapixel field-of-view (FoV), and a third 8-megapixel telephoto sensor. For selfies, there is a 32-megapixel camera inside a punch-hole. The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE is backed by a 4500mAh battery with 15W fast charging. There is wireless charging available as well. TORONTO - The difficulty Indigenous people in isolated communities have in serving jail sentences intermittently violates their equality rights, a judge has ruled. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. TORONTO - The difficulty Indigenous people in isolated communities have in serving jail sentences intermittently violates their equality rights, a judge has ruled. In his decision, Ontario court Judge David Gibson agreed the law discriminates against residents of in Pikangikum, about 225 kilometres north of Kenora, Ont. "Being deprived of the opportunity to serve a jail sentence intermittently because of their status as on-reserve band members of the Pikangikum First Nation constitutes the deprivation of a legal benefit," Gibson concluded. "It also creates a distinction in law between themselves and other members of the general public." The case involved six mothers from the 3,800-strong fly-in community. All had pleaded guilty to drinking and driving, an offence which carries a 90-day minimum sentence. Normally, people so convicted would be eligible to serve their time on weekends, something not feasible for those living on the isolated reserve hundreds of kilometres from the nearest district jail. The six, Sherry Turtle, Audrey Turtle, Loretta Turtle, Cherilee Turtle, Rocelyn Moose and Tracy Strang, argued among other things the law violates their equality rights. The prosecution countered they had not proven their claims. It also said it had made offers to accommodate them, rendering their case moot. Gibson, however, found it necessary to rule. "The issues underlying the applicants' claims are of significant public importance beyond the individual circumstances of these defendants," he said. "It is appropriate they be adjudicated in these proceedings." To do so, the court heard extensive evidence on the "total disruption" caused by colonization and the resulting rise in crime in Pikangikum much of it related to devastating substance abuse. One accused has lost three siblings to suicide. Gibson noted the crowded Kenora District Jail was built in 1926, almost all its inmates are Indigenous, and conditions can be brutal. The ability to serve their mandatory jail sentence intermittently would greatly benefit the women and their families, Gibson said, but no one was able to point him to a single case where an on-reserve Pikangikum resident had been granted such a sentence. "Removing mothers from their children for extended periods of time will undoubtedly exacerbate existing problems in this vulnerable and destabilized First Nation," Gibson said. As a result, he concluded the intermittent-sentencing provisions violate their equality rights, further finding the discrimination could not be justified. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. With almost two decades of experience with Pikangikum, the judge wrestled with what sentences might be appropriate given the drinking scourge on the community. However, he urged the federal government to consult with its members. Canada, he said, was "very clearly" neglecting its treaty obligations in Pikangikum, particularly in keeping it alcohol-free and in its duty to consult. "Pikangikums integration into Canadian Confederation is a textbook example of the negative effects of colonialism on an isolated hunter-gatherer society," Gibson said. "The people of Pikangikum were a healthy, self-sufficient band of families, who, in the lifetime of the current chief's grandmother, became the suicide capital of the world." While the Crown belatedly announced it would pay to transport the defendants to and from Kenora, Gibson called the offer "questionable legal rope-a-dope." Nevertheless, he accepted the government's undertaking to ensure the defendants could serve intermittent sentences. John Bilton, lawyer for the six women, called the ruling a "powerful call to action." This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Oct. 5, 2020. ORLANDO, Fla. - The Trump administration on Monday asked appellate judges to immediately suspend a lower courts order requiring the 2020 census to continue through October, saying decisions by the U.S. Census Bureau over how to conduct the nations head count shouldnt be subject to judicial second-guessing. An attorney for the Trump administration urged the panel of three Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals judges in San Francisco to suspend U.S. District Judge Lucy Kohs injunction from last month. Sopan Joshi said the head count needed to end Monday in order for the bureau to meet a year-end deadline for turning in numbers used for deciding how many congressional seats each state gets in a process known as apportionment. Joshi, assistant to the U.S. solicitor general, asked the judges to issue a decision on Monday, or as promptly as possible, so the Trump administration can have time to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, if need be. The judges said several hours after the virtual hearing that they would issue a ruling no later than Wednesday afternoon. Kohs injunction last month suspended a Sept. 30 deadline for ending the head count as well as a Dec. 31 deadline for turning in apportionment numbers. Her order reverted the deadlines to those of a Census Bureau plan, announced in April in response to the pandemic, that would end field operations on Oct. 31 and report apportionment numbers at the end of April 2021. Koh also struck down an Oct. 5 end date that the Commerce Department, which oversees the Census Bureau, had pushed after the injunction, saying it violated her order. A previous appellate panel had refused to suspend the order. The judge sided with civil rights groups and local governments that had sued the Census Bureau and the U.S. Department of Commerce, arguing that minorities and others in hard-to-count communities would be missed if the counting ended in September. The Trump administration says the judges decision ignores the congressionally-mandated deadline requiring the Census Bureau to turn in apportionment numbers by Dec. 31. They also said the local governments and civil rights groups failed to show that accuracy will be compromised if the 2020 census ends early enough for the data to be analyzed before the end of the year. The once-a-decade census determines how $1.5 trillion in federal spending is distributed annually, as well as how many congressional seats and Electoral College votes each state gets. The Census Bureau reported that, as of Sunday, 99.6% of households nationwide have been counted, although seven mostly southern states havent crossed the 99% threshold yet. In response to the pandemic, the Census Bureau in April proposed extending the deadline for finishing the count from the end of July to the end of October and pushing the apportionment deadline from Dec. 31 to next April. The proposal to extend the apportionment deadline passed the Democratic-controlled House, but the Republican-controlled Senate didnt take up the request. Then, in late July or early August, bureau officials changed the deadline once again to the end of September. They were hoping to get an extension, Joshi told the judges. At some point, you have to make a call. You have a December deadline staring you in the face. You hope it gets moved, but at some point you realize its not going to move. The Republicans inaction coincided with a memorandum President Donald Trump issued, which was later ruled unlawful by a panel of three district judges in New York, directing the Census Bureau to exclude from the apportionment count people in the country illegally. The Trump administration is appealing that case to the U.S. Supreme Court. Not extending the deadline would ensure that the numbers-crunching phase of the 2020 census takes place under the Trump administration, no matter who wins the November presidential election. The Trump administration acts as if Kohs order is asking the Census Bureau to violate the law by not complying with the Dec. 31 deadline, but the law also requires the agency to produce a complete and accurate count, said Melissa Sherry, an attorney for the coalition of local governments and civil rights groups. Congress still has the chance to extend the deadline, and documents supplied by the Census Bureau and the Commerce Department show that the data analysis phase of the census, after the head count, cant be done by Dec. 31, Sherry said. Accuracy matters, Sherry told the judges. The fact that they would try to compress data processing is extremely troubling. New documents released over the weekend show that the Census Bureau incurred almost $1.5 billion in costs from the pandemic, primarily due to a three-month delay in field operations and leaves for temporary workers. The 2020 census is expected to cost more than $15 billion. One of the appellate jurists, Judge Marsha Berzon, asked Joshi if unforeseeable circumstances, also called a force majeure, like a pandemic could make the Dec. 31 deadline more flexible. Legal contracts sometimes have force majeure clauses that relieve parties from honouring the terms of the deal. There is no force majeure clause in the Constitution, Joshi said. ___ Follow Mike Schneider on Twitter at https://twitter.com/MikeSchneiderAP Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 5) The Interior Department has hired 20 percent of the target 50,000 addition contract tracers less than a month after the project's budget was granted, an official said on Monday. Interior Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said they have hired 10,136 personnel to track down the close contacts of COVID-19 patients in order to cut the transmission of the disease. DILG is confident it will easily reach the target as there are 55,000 pending applications. Malaya said workers from Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams or BHERTs will be prioritized due to their contact tracing experience. DILG assured the government will be able to find 37 close contacts of a COVID-19 patient as soon as they are able to hire 50,000 contact tracers nationwide meeting the formula set by contact tracing czar Benjamin Magalong. The department requested for 5 billion contact tracing funds under the "Bayanihan 2," which was signed into law in mid-September, to meet the recommendation of the World Health Organization. Meanwhile, Malaya noted that some local government units are failing to provide adequate support for BHERTs, which play an important role in the national government's COVID-19 response. May mga LGUs na very supportive sa health systems, may mga LGUs naman na may pagkukulang. If the LGU has that kind of system, that is reflected in the BHERTs, he said in an online media forum. [Translation: There are LGUs that are supportive of the health systems, while some are lacking. The LGU response will reflect the response of BHERTs.] These workers play a crucial role as they support the Local Epidemiology and Surveillance Units and contact tracing teams in tracking confirmed COVID-19 patients, visting houses to proactively find cases. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. The Defense Army units of Artsakh carried out tactical movements on the frontline, inflicting heavy losses on the adversary The Defense Army of Artsakh in one of the most difficult sections of the frontline carried out tactical moves, particularly, made an illusion of withdrawal among Azerbaijani units. The adversary attempted to quickly occupy the positions left by Armenian forces, but appeared in a trap. Afterwards, a powerful artillery strike destroyed most of the unit. Leaving over 200 killed soldiers in the battlefield, the adversary fled in an unorganized way, says Armenian Defense Ministry. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, the Indian Air Force (IAF) chief, said on Monday India was fully capable of handling any threat from China over the border standoff along the Line of Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh and that there was no question of the neighbouring country besting us in any conflict scenario. Bhadauria acknowledged the strength of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) saying their air force includes surface-to-air systems in the Ladakh theatre, air-launched long-distance weapons and Chengdu J-20, which is a fifth-generation fighter with advanced sensors and weapons but does not have advanced engine tech. He, however, said China has its own areas of strength but we have catered for all scenarios and are fully capable of handling any threat. Watch: No question of China getting the better of us: IAF Chief on LAC standoff When asked about the progress on disengagement talks with China in the Ladakh sector, Bhadauria said, The talks towards disengagement, followed by de-escalation, are on. We hope that the talks will progress along the lines that are expected. The current progress, he said, was slow and there is an increase in the effort to dig-in for winter in terms of forces on ground and deployment of air assets in airfields close by. Defence forces see the ground reality after that. Our further action will depend on ground realities, he told reporters. The IAF chief assured that forces were firmly deployed and were ready to handle any contingency along the border. We have deployed to all relevant operational locations, required to access this area, Bhadauria said. India and China will hold the seventh round of corps commander-level talks on October 12 to discuss the way forward on the situation in Ladakh. As Britains negotiations with the European Union on a post-Brexit trade deal go down to the wire, Prime Minister Boris Johnson says his country could trade with the bloc on similar terms to Australia, if no agreement is reached. But Australia itself is far from happy with its arrangements with the EU and is pushing for the better market access that only a fully-fledged trade deal with the wealthy 27-member bloc and its 500 million potential customers would bring. Now, the bulk of Australias 15 billion euros ($18 billion)exports to the EU are subject to tariffs and quotas set under basic World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms. Thats why Australian exporters are backing Canberras moves to strike a new free trade agreement (FTA) with Brussels so they can get the certainty they need to invest and plan. If theyre emulating our current access to Europe, it is a fairly fractured and limited access, so its an interesting one theyd like to copy, Andrew McDonald, director of NH Foods Australia, a Japanese-owned beef producer based in Sydney with three processing facilities in eastern Australia, told Reuters. Britains aspirations for its future trading relationship with the EU have been gradually whittled down as disagreements between the two have emerged in often prickly negotiations following Britains exit from the EU on Jan. 31. Attempts by former Prime Minister Theresa May in 2017 to secure a bespoke deal with the EU were given short shrift in Brussels. Her successor Johnson acknowledges any deal would have to be based on precedents and has cited the EUs tariff-cutting 2014 agreement with Canada as a possible model. As talks stalled this year, Johnson said Britain could also live with an Australian-style arrangement. Given that Australia does not have a free-trade agreement with the EU, domestic critics say the phrase is simply a euphemism for a no-deal. On Sept. 7, Johnson repeated the view that an Australian-style EU deal would be a good outcome for Britain and this has become the government line. A negotiated outcome remains our clear preference. However, whether we trade with the EU on terms similar to Canada or Australia, we will be reclaiming our independence as a sovereign nation at the end of the transition period, which is what the British people voted for, a government spokesman said. An Australia-style deal would give us full control over our laws, our rules and our fishing waters, as well as the freedom to strike free trade agreements with other countries around the world. BEEF SQUEEZED Expand Close Cattle push each other as they kick-up dust at sunset on farmer Tom Wollaston's drought-effected property, located west of the town of Tamworth in north-western New South Wales, in Australia, June 1, 2018. REUTERS/David Gray / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Cattle push each other as they kick-up dust at sunset on farmer Tom Wollaston's drought-effected property, located west of the town of Tamworth in north-western New South Wales, in Australia, June 1, 2018. REUTERS/David Gray In Australias case, the lack of an EU trade deal means falling back on WTO terms that impose a variety of restrictions. Its farmers, for example, can export meat to the EU at reduced tariffs with two tranches, one for high quality and one for grain-fed beef. The former is a fixed quantity with a 20% tariff and the latter is tariff-free, but it is shared with other countries on a first-come first-served basis. Whats more, Australias share of the grain-fed quota is set to be squeezed as the EU has yielded to U.S. demands that its farmers take 35,000 of the 45,000-tonne allotment. McDonald said the quotas have restricted the amount of beef his company can sell to Europe, which in turn has forced him to cut his exposure to the EU market. You cant go through all the processes and the six, seven months of lead time in terms of preparing product to face significant losses on it, he said. It was concerns like those that prompted Australia to launch negotiations with the EU in 2018 to try to secure what it called an ambitious and comprehensive free trade deal. Canberra wants to get rid of all EU tariffs on industrial goods, which currently include a 12% duty on minerals and metals, 10% on wood and paper, and 7% on chemicals. It is seeking to do the same for agricultural exports such as beef, sheep meat, sugar, cheese and rice, which Canberra says are significantly constrained by EU quotas. It recognises, however, that negotiations will be difficult for farm produce. PARMA HAM AND FETA Australias foreign and trade ministry cites other advantages of a deal such as less red tape and alignment with EUs high standards on sustainable development. The stakes for Australia in securing favourable terms with the EU are arguably lower than they are for Britain. The 27 members that now make up the EU accounted for 672 billion sterling ($870 billion) in two-way trade with Britain last year, making the bloc by far its largest trading partner. China meanwhile accounts for over a third of Australias total exports and the EU only accounted for $61 billion of two-trade with Australia. Yet Canberra sees big potential in an EU FTA. There are massive opportunities to better align Australian and European regulatory systems that enables business to flow, said Jason Collins, chief executive of the European-Australian Business Council trade forum. To be sure, some Australian companies are less than enthused about the benefits of an FTA with the EU as they worry it could have knock-on effects on their domestic businesses. Australia says Brussels has listed more than 400 food and drink items, such as Feta cheese and Prosciutto di Parma ham, that can only carry those names in both Europe and Australia if they are made by EU producers. Our biggest issue is as part of the deal, the EU is trying to prohibit the use of some product names within Australia, said Sheree Sullivan, CEO and part-owner of Adelaide Hills-based cheese producer Udder Delights in South Australia. Some of them are unknown and not used in Australia, but some are - and it will affect small goods, meat cuts, cheese and maybe a few other lines, she said. An official portrait of former Taoiseach Brian Cowen has finally been commissioned by the Office of Public Works (OPW). The oil painting is due to be completed next spring, exactly a decade after he left office. It will be created by artist Blaise Smith. The work will be displayed in Leinster House on a landing opposite the main entrance to the Dail chamber. Mr Cowen is continuing his recovery from a stroke and has stepped back from public life. His family offered no comment on the commissioning of the official portrait after a record delay. The most recent portrait of a former Taoiseach - which is normally completed and displayed within a year of leaving office - is that of Bertie Ahern. No process has yet begun in the case of former Taoiseach Enda Kenny. The OPW said in a statement to the Irish Independent that it had engaged the well-known artist "to undertake the official portrait of former Taoiseach Brian Cowen". "The commission was placed recently and work is progressing. The commission fee for the official portrait is 12,000," said a spokesman. He added: "The commission process for the portrait of former Taoiseach Enda Kenny has not commenced." Mr Cowen served as Taoiseach from May 2008, after the resignation of Mr Ahern, until March 2011. He resigned as leader of Fianna Fail in January 2011 after a botched reshuffle, to be replaced as party figurehead by current Taoiseach Micheal Martin. No explanation has been offered for the delay in commissioning the portrait, which goes against the practice of former Taoisigh having their images hung on the walls of Leinster House soon after they leave the Dail. The portraits of 11 of the 13 former Taoisigh are on display, with that of Mr Ahern displayed in the autumn of 2011. His image was painted by artist James Hanley, who chose to devote much of his canvas to sky blue, synonymous with Mr Ahern's love of the Dublin GAA team. Mr Smith will now join the ranks of Ireland's forefront artists in having painted a former Taoiseach. They include Sean O'Sullivan, who painted William T Cosgrave and John A Costello, Leo Whelan (Eamon de Valera), Maurice MacGonigal (Sean Lemass), John F Kelly (Jack Lynch and Charles Haughey), Edward Maguire (Liam Cosgrave), Derek Hill (Garret FitzGerald), Carey Clarke (Albert Reynolds), and Edward Plunkett (John Bruton). Two unofficial portraits of Mr Cowen were discovered in Dublin galleries in March 2009, leading to public controversy and a Garda investigation. They were hung without authorisation in the National Gallery and the Royal Hibernian Academy and showed Mr Cowen from the waist up, wearing only glasses. They were speedily removed and the perpetrator was identified as a Mayo schoolteacher. No criminal charges were brought. The Hathras gangrape and murder case has once again revealed the inefficiency of the government and its agencies who have failed to take timely action in the matter. In its final report on the Hathras victim, the Department of Forensic Medicine of the Aligarh Muslim Universitys Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital (JNMCH) concluded that there were no signs of rape/vaginal/anal intercourse. It however added that there was evidence of physical assault -- injuries over the neck and back in this case. The report stated that the investigation did not find any sperm in the samples. Delayed examination It must be noted that the forensic exam was conducted on September 22, eight days after the incident. The forensic sample - including vaginal swabs - was sent to the forensic laboratory on 25 September, 11 days after the incident. PTI According to government guidelines, the forensic samples must be collected within 72 hours of the accident. Sperms can't survive after more than 90 hours. Also, in the dying declaration of the victim, she had clearly mentioned that she was gangraped by the four men. A dying declaration by a rape victim is admissible evidence in India's courts. The 19-year-old woman was brutally assaulted on September 14 by four upper caste men when she went to collect fodder with her mother. After her condition deteriorated, she was moved to the Safdarjung Hospital. She passed away on September 29. The charges of gangrape were added on September 22 when the girl recorded her statement under Section 164 of Crpc. Reuters Initial reports suggested "complete penetration" and loss of consciousness at the time of the incident, according to a report by Hindustan Times. The reports now suggest that the forensic report has found no semen or semen excretion in the viscera sample of the victim, and that the death was due to the trauma caused by the assault. Seven years have passed since India introduced an anti-rape law, after the Nirbhaya case in Delhi, which expanded the definition of rape to include oral sex and penetration with objects. The law also says explicitly that the absence of a physical struggle doesn't equal consent. Top Gear Rating: 25 Siblings & Me Rating: For the best rock tribute acts, one thing matters most. It isnt enough just to play the songs of their idols note for note. What really counts is a great name. Fake That is a good one. So is Iron Maidens, for the all-female clones of the heavy metal icons. And if youre going to rock out to an all-girl group, dont miss New Yorks Lez Zeppelin. Abbatoir play Swedish pop at a volume to make your ears bleed. But the outright champions of pun rock are Proxy Music . . . with a name as witty as Bryan Ferrys convoluted lyrics. Paddy McGuinness, Chris Harris and Andrew Freddie Flintoff need a better name, because they cant keep calling their tribute act Top Gear (BBC1). People might mistake it for the real thing. Paddy McGuinness, Chris Harris and Andrew Freddie Flintoff need a better name, because they cant keep calling their tribute act Top Gear (BBC1) Calling it Flop Gear or Flat Tyre wouldnt be completely fair, because this show is starting to mesh again after years in the pits. The three stars actually make each other laugh not the fake hilarity of the Chris Evans and Matt Le Blanc series, but genuine giggles. Still, they are very obviously using someone elses format. A producer set them a series of challenges as they motored round Paddys home town, Bolton, in a trio of test cars. Then Chris gave the new Ferrari a spin before handing it over to their silent, white-clad racing driver, the Stig. Theyre doing exactly what Jeremy Clarkson and co invented, 20 years ago, the TV equivalent of cover versions, and passing all this off as their own. Its as though the girls of Lez Zep played Stairway To Heaven and claimed it as a little number we just wrote. The Beeb must believe in them, though, because this is Top Gears first ever season on BBC1. Lonely 21-year-old Oli Benjamin was searching for the confidence to go his own way, in the dispiriting documentary 25 Siblings & Me (BBC2) The boys are best when theyre being themselves, not following scripts written for other people. Its easy to believe that Freds favourite feature on his Tesla saloon really was the dashboard karaoke machine. A crowd always gathers when Top Gear films, and stand-up comedian Paddy gathered them round for a blast of the party perennial, Sweet Caroline. Dull reactions of the weekend: In its heyday, Spitting Image (BritBox) prided itself on jokes as topical as the headlines. This time round, most of the gags about Trump, Prince Andrew and Dominic Cummings could have been written months ago. Advertisement If they have the confidence to go their own way, instead of mimicking past triumphs, the show can live again. Lets call it Back On Track. Lonely 21-year-old Oli Benjamin was searching for the confidence to go his own way, in the dispiriting documentary 25 Siblings & Me (BBC2). Oli, who has Aspergers syndrome a type of autism that affects his social skills was conceived with sperm from a donor. DNA testing revealed that he has more than two dozen half-brothers and half-sisters in America, so he set off to meet them with high hopes of forging close bonds. Seeing those hopes slashed to shreds was quite pitiful. The Americans couldnt fathom Olis sense of humour, his earnestness or his eccentricity. One told him that his autism meant he should never think of having children, with no apparent disagreement from the other 24. Oli was better off not knowing them. Hes a bright, likeable, bravely defiant young man, and its no wonder his mother Jody is so fiercely proud of him. Exactly why the siblings were so hostile to the British boy was hard to gauge. The film made no attempt to get to know them. It also failed to find out basic facts about Oli. Is he a student? What does he want to do with his life? Why does he wear lipstick and eyeliner didnt he want to talk about that? At 90 minutes, this documentary was far too lengthy to get away with dodging so many questions. The Editorial Board on elections For more on U.S. elections, read these recent editorials: Sign up for the Opinions A.M. and P.M. newsletters for opinions delivered to your inbox six days a week. Explore more election coverage from the Washington Post newsroom and Opinions section. JACKSON, MI Jackson County school leaders are hesitant to make changes to their in-person school plans despite a Michigan Supreme Court ruling restricting Gov. Gretchen Whitmers authority to enforce emergency orders. Jackson Public Schools plans to continue recertifying its emergency preparedness plan with the school board every month, Superintendent Jeff Beal said. The plan enforces health and safety protocols, such as the requirement of masks in buildings and frequent cleaning of school buildings. JPS has required masks for all K-12 students and staff since the start of school this fall and believes the results have been positive so far, Beal said. The (court ruling) is a concern for me, Beal said Monday, Oct. 5. How the community responds will strongly affect our district and how schools can stay open. On Monday, Whitmer and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Robert Gordon filed a motion with the Michigan Supreme Court requesting that it clarify that its Friday, Oct. 2 ruling does not take effect until Oct. 30. The court, opining on a federal case in which a judge had asked for state input, said in its ruling the governor has no authority to declare a state of emergency under the 1976 Emergency Management Act or the 1945 Emergency Powers of the Governor Act, the latter of which the court found unconstitutional. School districts across Jackson County have used the governors orders to adopt plans to begin the year with a variety of hybrid and in-person formats. Jackson County Intermediate School District Superintendent Kevin Oxley said he expects schools will stick to their board-adopted COVID-19 Preparedness Plans at least until more information is available. In a letter to parents Monday, Northwest Community Schools Superintendent Geoff Bontrager said clarification from the courts, legislature, the governor and other state agencies is necessary to determine how the ruling will impact which orders are still in effect. Citing the health and safety of students and staff, Bontrager said Northwest is not altering the health and safety protocols within the districts preparedness plan, including the requirement of face masks for all staff and students. In the coming days and weeks, we will continue to gain information regarding how Gov. Whitmers Return to School Roadmap is impacted by the courts decision, Bontrager said. At Michigan Center Schools, all of the contents of the districts Return to Learn plan will remain in effect until Dec. 18, after it was previously approved by the school board, Superintendent Brady Cook said. The district began the academic year with options for five days a week of in-person learning or a remote learning option. For those attending in-person classes, all staff and students are required to wear masks at all times inside school buildings and on the buses, with the only exception being during meals and for those with medical documentation indicating they cant wear a face covering. We are constantly reviewing, evaluating, and affirming our plan, and we will continue to do so, Cook said. Our highest priority, now and always, is student and staff safety, and that continues to be reflected in our plan. Grass Lake Community Schools is examining the ruling and will address any changes as needed, Superintendent Ryle Kiser said. With the decision just occurring on Friday, there needs to be time for the district to assess the situation and decide on any actions that may need to be presented to the board of education for consideration, Kiser said. READ MORE: Michigan Center schools move online after 2 employees test positive for coronavirus Remote or in-person? Jackson County schools offer a choice Gov. has no authority to continue state of emergency, Michigan Supreme Court rules The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-Delhi) has declared the results of Joint Entrance Exam Advanced on its official website- jeeadv.ac.in. Chirag Falor from Pune has bagged the top rank by securing 352 marks out of 396 in Common Rank List (CRL). Chirag Falor has not only cleared the IIT entrance exam 2020 but also cleared the admission test at one of the most eminent universities of the world- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA. He is one of the only 5 Indian students who got admitted to MIT this year. Despite having achieved this feat, Pune's Falor decided to appear for the JEE exam. According to Falor, "JEE is the toughest exam because there is a time constraint to it. First-year common exams at MIT are much easier than JEE. Hence, it is the toughest exam in a short period of time." Besides IIT-JEE and MIT exams, Falor has also appeared for India at the International Olympiads and was earlier awarded the Bal Shakti Puraskar for the same. He prepared for one of the 7 most difficult exams in India alongside his online classes at MIT that lasted from 05:30 pm till 02:00 am every day since he could not return to the US given the coronavirus lockdown. His sharp mind and scientific temper also captured Prime Minister Narendra Modi's attention this year. Calling him a "friend", the Prime Minister tweeted, "Meet my friend Chirag Falor, a Bal Puraskar awardee. Winner of national and international math and science competitions, he represented India in the International Olympiad Award on Astronomy and Astrophysics. Chirag has a bright future ahead and I wish him success." Falor had secured 98.4 per cent marks in the CBSE Class 12 Board exams. He also has a younger sister who is in class 7 currently. Also read: 'IIT entrance is the toughest exam,' says student who has cleared MIT Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared on Monday New Zealand 'beat the virus again' and announced restrictions in the country's largest city would be eased, after a second Covid-19 wave was contained. The virus was believed to have been eradicated in late May after a strict national lockdown led to New Zealanders enjoying 102 days without community transmission. But a new cluster emerged in Auckland in August, forcing the city of 1.5 million into lockdown for almost three weeks. With no new confirmed cases in Auckland for 12 days, Ardern said Monday the virus was now under control and congratulated residents for enduring the second lockdown. Four months after first eliminating the virus, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern (pictured left, with Clarke Gayford arriviving to cast their votes on the first day of advance voting during the New Zealand general election in Auckland on Saturday) announced on Monday Auckland would shift back to 'level one' Case numbers have significantly dropped in recent weeks and on Monday health officials announced a 10th straight day without community transmission. 'All signs point to it now being under control,' Ms Ardern said after chairing a virtual meeting of cabinet from Christchurch. 'Aucklanders and New Zealanders have stuck to the plan twice now and beat the virus again. We put our heads down and got on with it. 'There is now a 95 per cent chance of the cluster being eliminated. We are confident it has been contained.' Auckland was the centre of a fresh outbreak in August, which brought 179 new cases and three new deaths. Pictured: Residents walk down Queen Street in Auckland on September 24 Auckland's shift will take place at midnight on Wednesday. Under the change, there are no restrictions on social gatherings, allowing the second Bledisloe Cup Test in Auckland on October 18 to be played in front of a full stadium at Eden Park. 'This is positive news that [Auckland fans] will be able to enjoy Test match rugby,' New Zealand Rugby said in a statement. It shows a growing appetite for risk-taking by Ms Ardern's government, which is likely to be re-elected on October 17. But Ardern warned success could not be taken for granted. She pointed to a decline in the use of the official Covid-19 tracing app and falling virus test numbers. 'A resurgence of the virus is not our only worry, resurgence of complacency is right up there too,' Ardern said. In June, Ms Ardern moved New Zealand to level one after 40 days without community transmission; a month longer than has been recorded after the fresh outbreak. New Zealand continues to record new cases within its border regime, with 22 international arrivals to test positive for the virus in the last week while in mandatory isolation. New Zealand has recorded just 25 Covid-19 deaths in a population of five million, with 40 active cases in the country on Monday. BURLINGTON Six months after Ontario long-term-care homes began limiting visitors, Susan Stevens finally got to dance with her husband again. The 68-year-old Burlington woman reunited with her husband of 35 years at the Hampton Terrace Care Centre on Plains Road West at the end of September. I put music on for him because we were both ballroom dancers, she said Friday. The only thing that really keeps me going every day is music. So, I took him music in the room on my phone, and he was excited so he started dancing with his hands with me. Stevens had last seen her husband, Jerry Stevens, in March before the province limited visits to long-term-care facilities to essential visitors meaning people visiting residents who were very ill or needing end-of-life care. In September, the Ontario government updated the policy so that family caregivers were named essential visitors and could visit residents any time, including during an outbreak as long as the local public health unit allows. As of Oct. 5, visitor policies are changing yet again to limit visitors to long-term-care homes to only essential visitors in hot spot areas. Asked how she felt after visiting her husband, Stevens broke down in tears. It was just like something came right over me because of all the pain and suffering not being able to see him, to hold him, to see that he was OK, she said. While the restrictions previously stopped Stevens from visiting her husband inside his home, she was by his window every few days throughout the pandemic. The home also arranged several physically-distant outdoor visits for the couple. There were days when I broke down at the window. I cried, said Stevens. She added that her husband had a number of falls during the pandemic, which also prevented her from seeing him. On his birthday at the end of August, Stevens had a group of friends in a band come and sing to Jerry at his window. That was a long time too long for me to be away from my husband, she said. Kate Garraway has revealed that Dominic West 'personally apologised' to her after he said he 'jumped for joy' over Donald Trump's COVID diagnosis. Talking on Monday's Good Morning Britain, the presenter, 53, said he 'wasn't aware' her husband Derek Draper, 53, was 'still sick' with coronavirus. On Friday's show, Dominic was heavily criticised for explaining how he 'jumped for joy' upon learning President Trump has coronavirus. Apologies: Kate Garraway has revealed that Dominic West 'personally apologised' to her after he said he 'jumped for joy' over Donald Trump's COVID diagnosis Discussing his comments on Monday's show, Kate said: 'I was surprised because I don't think Dominic meant, well he's been in touch directly with me, to apologise personally to me. 'He wasn't aware that Derek had coronavirus and was still sick and was worried that I had been upset by it. I wasn't upset for those reasons, I was surprised because I went on to say afterwards, I'm sure you join us in wishing him [Trump] the very best. 'Personally, whatever your views may be. I don't think he meant that, I think he's not a Trump supporter. 'I think it's a symptom of Donald Trump's behaviour throughout this pandemic he's appeared to thumb his nose in it and he was jumping for joy at the idea he might now feel the effects of it. A reality check.' 'Wasn't aware': Talking on Monday's Good Morning Britain, the presenter, 53, said he 'wasn't aware' her husband Derek Draper, 53, was 'still sick' with coronavirus Coronavirus: On Friday's show, Dominic was heavily criticised for explaining how he 'jumped for joy' upon learning President Trump has coronavirus She added: 'I don't believe Dominic West would wish someone ill.' Discussing Donald Trump's messages throughout his treatment, Kate continued: 'That plays into the idea... you get coronavirus, you survive, you're a hero. You're not, you're very lucky, the heroes are the people treating you and helping you to survive.' Giving an update about Derek, who has been in hospital battling coronavirus since March, she said: 'Derek, who has no longer tested positive for coronavirus, children aren't allowed to see him, his mum and dad haven't seen him.' Also discussing Dominic's comments on Friday's show, co-host Piers Morgan called them 'unacceptable'. Painful: Dominic's words were tone deaf given that her husband Derek Draper has become the longest patient battling coronavirus in hospital in the UK (pictured in December 2019) Speaking out: Discussing his comments on Monday's show, Kate said: 'I was surprised because I don't think Dominic meant, well he's been in touch directly with me, to apologise personally to me.' He said: 'You can have whatever view you like of Donald Trump, I've had very positive views of him and this year very negative views of him. A lot of people love him, a lot of people hate it. 'It doesn't matter though, if a human being gets coronavirus, which we know has killed one million people, if a human being is in his 70s, has underlying weight issues and so on, therefore quite a lot of risk. 'Forget Trump's behaviour, forget everything for the moment, as a human being, to say you jump for joy when someone gets coronavirus. 'To say it frankly, when you have a presenter on this show whose husband is still in a coma. I found that unacceptable.' She added: 'He wasn't aware that Derek had coronavirus and was still sick and was worried that I had been upset by it. I wasn't upset for those reasons, I was surprised because I went on to say afterwards, I'm sure you join us in wishing him [Trump] the very best.' 'How vile and evil to get joy from the suffering of others:' GMB viewers slammed Dominic on Friday for telling Kate he 'jumped for joy' over Trump's Covid diagnosis It comes after Dominic was heavily criticised for explaining how he 'jumped for joy' upon learning President Trump has coronavirus. The Wire actor, 50, didn't hold back when asked for his views on Trump's positive result on Friday after the President, 74, had minimised the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic for months. Appearing on video link from his Wiltshire home, Dominic was branded 'evil' and 'disgusting' after saying: 'Well I did slightly leap in the air with joy. 'I think the phrase is "what goes around comes around". I just hope it doesn't interfere with him being elected out of office that's all.' Slammed: Viewers took to Twitter to slam Dominic for revelling in another person's ill health He was far from the only left-wing social media user to take delight in the President's diagnosis with many advancing theories that his illness would harm his chances in the presidential election on November 3. Kate questioned if Dominic was suggesting he wished Trump well on a personal level, but perhaps felt this was karmic given that Trump had previously downplayed the virus. The actor's words were somewhat tone deaf, given that Kate's husband Derek, 53, has become the longest patient battling coronavirus in hospital in the UK as he enters his seventh month in hospital. Dominic said: 'Well there's an element of schadenfreude I suppose. 'I'm not a fan of his, as you can probably tell, and I just hope Biden stays healthy and gets the presidency as quickly as possible. I think Trump is a catastrophe for America and the world.' Mixed bag: Other viewers agreed that Dominic was right to mock Trump given how much he has downplayed the virus It's fair to say that lots of people on social media had called it 'karma' that Trump had been diagnosed following his recent downplaying of the virus. Dominic also added that he hoped the diagnosis would make Trump supporters take the virus more seriously than they had in the past. While the US President is certainly a divisive figure, some viewers felt as though Dominic shouldn't have rejoiced over someone getting a potentially fatal virus. They took to Twitter in their droves to write: 'I have never heard of Dominic West before. I wonder when the Karma bus will be trundling toward his family? What a vile, evil person he is to obtain joy from the suffering of others.' Reaction: Fawlty Towers star John Cleese also reacted on Twitter to Trump's announcement Lord Sugar posted: 'Will he [Trump] finally wake up and realise this is a dangerous pandemic' David Bowie's son wrote: 'How do germophobic sociopaths tend to react to getting sick?' 'Disgusted with @GMB interview with @DominicWest taking delight in @POTUS positive COVID test. No matter your politics, evil to wish ill on others. '@kategarraway how did you accept this and smile given your husbands COVID history?' 'Disgusted with @GMB interview with @DominicWest taking delight in @POTUS positive COVID test. No matter your politics, evil to wish ill on others.' Yet others agreed with him. They wrote: 'Brilliant Dominic West doesnt give a toss. When asked about Donald Trump, he was smiling it is what it is. Karma.' 'Hahahahahahaha love Dominic West. Saying it exactly as it is.' In quarantine: Trump announced that he and Melania were in quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19 'Dominic West was ace in the Wire. He's just topped that.' President Donald Trump said on Friday that he and his wife Melania had tested positive for COVID-19 and were going into quarantine, upending the race for the White House. He tweeted: 'We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER!' It comes after it was reported on Monday that Trump is getting 'bored' in the Walter Reed hospital and 'tiring' of watching TV coverage of his Covid-19 infection, his advisors say. The president has told aides he wants to return to the White House as early as today after doctors floated the possibility of a Monday discharge. But according to the Washington Post, some advisors see the possible return to the White House as a 'political decision' just weeks before the election. Trump's aides are also worried that an early release could backfire if his symptoms relapse and he is forced to return to Walter Reed, it is claimed. Two people close to Trump told the New York Times that the president had been 'hankering' to be discharged. The president has been 'exasperated' by TV coverage of his illness and speculation about him transferring powers to Vice President Mike Pence, aides said. Trump, 74, said in a Sunday video that he had 'learned a lot about Covid' by 'really going to school' as he battled the virus. The president then caused further controversy by briefly leaving the hospital and waving to supporters from a bulletproof car. More than 200,000 people have died from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, in the United States alone, with the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions especially hard hit. Four in ten Australians would be willing to ditch bulk billing and pay up to $25 out-of-pocket to see a GP in exchange for shorter waiting times and longer consultations, as the federal government trials a system that gives doctors payments for ongoing treatment of chronic patients. Experts have warned that Medicare patient rebates have not kept pace with inflation for more than 20 years, leading the government to consider new models to fund GPs. New systems of GP payments are under investigation to sustain the future of Medicare. Credit:Joe Armao The Federal Department of Health is trialling a system in Sydney that involves the voluntary enrolment of patients with their chosen GP, who receive a bulk payment calculated on the seriousness of disease and health care needs of the patient. An interim evaluation of the Health Care Homes program, which will run until the end of June next year, says the "views about the bundled payment remain mixed, with some reporting it has created opportunities for flexibility and change, and others that it is insufficient for managing patients chronic illnesses". For a better experience on our website and avoid any trouble, we strongly recommand to activate Javascript ( click here ). Hello and welcome to Journal des Palaces You are a communication or the PR manager? Click here You are an applicant? Check out our questions and answers here ! FREMONT (BCN) A 21-year-old man who San Francisco police said was killed Thursday near Union Square in the city while attempting to rob someone was also a suspect in a May home invasion robbery off Laurel Canyon Court in Fremont, police in that city said Sunday. Multiple agencies, including Fremont and San Francisco police and the U.S. Marshals Service, had been searching for Vermond Jones of San Francisco since the May 5 Fremont robbery. Fremont police detectives had previously requested the public's assistance in locating Jones. Jones had numerous pending court hearings for various crimes including robberies, burglaries, possession of a firearm, and removing his court ordered electronic monitoring device, Fremont police said. Jones was one of three suspects who conducted the armed home invasion robbery off Laurel Canyon Court in Fremont. Two of the suspects pointed firearms at the victim while they ransacked the house. The suspects fled in a vehicle that was quickly identified by Fremont's Community Camera network. Another of the suspects, 23-year-old Tyler Spears of Antioch, was arrested in May by Fremont SWAT officers in Vallejo on a "no-bail" home invasion robbery warrant. In September, while out on bail, Spears was arrested in Antioch on suspicion of committing another home invasion robbery. Spears has been in the Martinez Detention Facility since then. Copyright 2020 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ghina Ghaliya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 19:10 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c493a348 1 National omnibus-bill-on-job-creation,house-of-representatives,COVID-19,coronavirus Free The government and the House of Representatives passed on Monday the controversial omnibus bill on job creation into law, sooner than its initial plan of Thursday, despite mounting opposition to the bill over its feared impact on the environment and labor rights. The final draft of the bill, a copy of which was obtained by The Jakarta Post, is 905 pages long and contains 185 articles in 15 chapters. The law aims to improve bureaucratic efficiency and cut red tape, particularly in regard to business permits and investment. In a plenary session on Monday, led by Deputy House Speaker Azis Syamsuddin of the Golkar Party, House Legislation Body (Baleg) chairman Supratman Andi Agtas said that the deliberation of the bill had taken place from April 20 to Oct. 3, adding that lawmakers and the government had been holding meetings, even on weekends, to expedite the deliberation. "The deliberation was careful enough until the end. All factions paid attention to workers' rights in the decision-making process, the Gerindra Party politician said. A number of President Joko Jokowi Widodos Cabinet members were present during the plenary, including Coordinating Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Manpower Minister Ida Fauziyah, Law and Human Rights Minister Yasonna Laoly and Home Minister Tito Karnavian. Airlangga said the law was necessary as the country needed to increase employment and improve the business climate following the pandemic. "We are now working to handle COVID-19, which has had a significant impact on the global and national economy. There were 43,600 regulations that needed to be sorted out before the pandemic and our competitiveness is also lagging behind in ASEAN," Airlangga, who is also the Golkar Party chairman, said. The law is also seen as necessary by the government since the countrys economy shrank by 5.32 percent in the second quarter this year, and is widely expected to record the first economic contraction since the 1998 Asian financial crisis this year. Read also: Police telegram urges control over protests against controversial jobs bill Seven House factions have conveyed their approval of the bill, which is one of Airlanggas flagship programs, namely the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), Golkar, Gerindra, the NasDem Party, the National Awakening Party (PKB), the National Mandate Party (PAN) and the United Development Party (PPP). Two other factions the Democratic Party and the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) have rejected to the bill, with the former walking out of the plenary meeting. "Delay the bill. Look at the public opposition everywhere. The workers are suffering a lot from the COVID-19 crisis, Didik Mukrianto of the Democratic Party said. Ahead of Mondays plenary, social media users expressed their frustrations over the bill by writing posts with the hashtags #DPRRIKhianatiRakyat (#HouseBetraysThePeople), #BatalkanOmnibusLaw (#CancelTheOmnibusLaw) and #MosiTidakPercaya (#VoteOfNoConfidence). Civil society organizations, grouped in a coalition calling itself the Indonesian People's Faction (FRI), have also voiced their disappointment, saying the state has turned a blind eye to popular opposition to the controversial bill, which the FRI believes only accommodates business interests. Among the coalition members are several labor groups, student organizations and NGOs, including the Indonesian Legal Aid Institute (YLBHI), the Mining and Advocacy Network (JATAM), the Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi), the Indonesian Peoples Coalition for Fisheries Justice (KIARA) and the Indigenous People's Alliance of the Archipelago (AMAN). Weve [issued] a vote of no confidence. The people demand an end to the deliberation and a cancellation of the job creation bill. The government and House have betrayed the people and the 1945 Constitution," the coalition said in a written statement on Monday. Labor groups on the same day held protests against the bill in several locations as the police prevented them holding a mass rally in front of the House compound in Senayan, Central Jakarta. Press Release October 5, 2020 Bong Go supports measures to develop national cacao industry and making Davao City the cacao capital of the Philippines Senator Christopher "Bong" Go expressed his support for two measures that will further enhance the productivity of the Philippines cacao industry during a hearing held by the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food and Agrarian Reform on Monday, October 5. In his manifestation, Go urged industry leaders to take advantage of the rising global demand for cacao which will top off at five million metric tons (mt) in 2020. The Philippines presently produces an annual average of 15,000 mt of cacao. However, it also consumes more than triple the amount at 50,000 mt of cacao per year. The Senator highlighted the industry's potential to generate jobs, particularly in rural areas where employment opportunities are often harder to find. He lauded Senate Bill No. 1741, filed by Senator Cynthia Villar, which will formally make Davao City the cacao capital of the Philippines. Davao City produced 2,289 mt of cacao in 2019, accounting for nearly a quarter of the country's total production of 8,488.60 mt. The Davao region combined accounted for 78.96% of the total production. "As a Davaoeno, I am very proud that under your proposed measure, Davao City will be declared as the Cacao and Chocolate Capital of the Philippines [...] Dahil po iyan sa ating mga masisipag na cacao farmers. Nagpunta rin po si Secretary William Dar kamakailan lang para i-recognize ang Davao City as the Cacao Capital of the Philippines dahil kami ang top producer ng cacao," said Go. "Marami na rin pong nakamit na awards ang ating mga cacao producers from Davao mula sa iba't ibang award-giving bodies sa buong mundo. Highly sought after ng chocolate makers from the United States, Japan and Europe ang ating mga cacao beans. Madame Chair, I am beaming with pride over these accolades by our very own Filipino farmers, nakaka-proud maging Davaoeno at Pilipino," he continued. The Senator also gave his support for the passage of SBN 899, a bill introduced by Senator Lito Lapid, which shall create a cacao research and development center. The center, if created, shall serve as the lead agency for managing the cacao industry. It will also educate and train local farmers as well as create or strengthen linkages with international organizations and other cacao development centers in other countries. "Noong mayor pa si Pangulong Duterte ay pumupunta po siya sa bukid para mamigay ng mgapara magtanim rin sila ng cacao. Panahon pa 'yun ng Department of Agriculture Undersecretary ang ating Secretary of Tourism na si Secretary [Bernadette Romulo-Puyat]. Parati ko na pong naririnig ang cacao industry sa Davao, at full support po ang ating mahal na Pangulo dito," he added. Go expressed hope that the proposed measures would help the country's cacao farmers as well as facilitate the development of the cacao industry. He encouraged government to take advantage of the rising global demand for cacao, a typically underserved commodity, to make the Philippines one of the top producers of quality cacao in the world. He also urged the DA to fulfill its promise to produce 100,000 mt of cacao by 2022 which will position the Philippines as a key regional player in the global cacao industry. On this note, Go expressed his intent to be made a co-author of the bills. TEL AVIV When Israel imposed a coronavirus lockdown in March, I walked home after raiding the supermarket and was able to hear the birds chirping on Dizengoff Street, one of the busiest arteries here. The next day I spoke to my father in Jerusalem, where the countrys first death from coronavirus had just been recorded. We both danced around the fact that, since his age made him more susceptible to complications from the virus, it would probably be a long time before we could see each other. Movement was restricted to within 100 meters (about 330 feet) from ones home. I taped to our fridge a schedule for my children, who were 3 and 1, which included assembling puzzles in the living room, coloring on our tiny porch and tent-building in their room. Five days later, I scrapped the schedule because every unfilled task felt like a personal failure. When my husband got off work (our dining table became his home office), I would lock myself on the porch with the shutters down to write. State primary schools are putting off building new playgrounds and fixing run-down sports facilities this year after cancelling fetes that often raise tens of thousands of dollars from the community. Coronavirus restrictions have put a stop to fetes and fairs that are typically a government school's biggest source of community cash for student facilities. Children at a fair in Sydney last month. Melbourne schools have had to cancel fetes this year, losing important funding. Credit:Edwina Pickles Beaumaris North Primary in Melbournes south-east generally raises between $65,000 and $80,000 at its biennial fete, which was originally scheduled for March, before being postponed to December and then ultimately cancelled. Previously, the school used funds raised at its fete to put airconditioning in classrooms. This year it hoped to raise $65,000 for a new junior playground and to repair the cracked surface of its netball court, principal Sherril Duffy said. Empire: Sean Quinn at his former offices in Ballyconnell, Co Cavan Co Fermanagh businessman Sean Quinn said it was "hard to believe" that executives in his former management team at Quinn Group would change the name of the company to Mannok. The name of the company, which will change from Quinn Industrial Holdings, probably doesn't matter that much. After all the name of the group of companies changed to Aventas when receivers went in. Similarly, the glass bottle manufacturing, the radiator business, and others have also been sold with a change of name involved. The new ownership mainly comprises three US hedge funds who stand to do very well out of their investment when they finally sell, as long as all of the fallout from Kevin Lunney's brutal abduction is dealt with. There was a look of determination about the senior management team when they stood for promotional photographs of the new logo. For Sean Quinn it is more the loss of the Quinn name and Q logo from the lorries and the head office that will have truly annoyed the man who founded the company. Mr Quinn even queried the executives' right to make the change, despite the fact they are running a business that is privately owned and Sean Quinn is no longer a shareholder, a director, an employee, or a consultant. Expand Close Fallout: Kevin Lunney was abducted and then brutally beaten in September 2019 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Fallout: Kevin Lunney was abducted and then brutally beaten in September 2019 At its peak, the Quinn empire spanned cement, building products, insurance, hotels, glass bottle manufacture, radiators, pubs, plastics and more. But it all started with cement and building products and that is the business Quinn would have most wanted to get back. Mr Quinn's role in that former business may be simply history now, but his previous involvement in other aspects of the empire still casts a long shadow. The collapse of the insurance business into administration will result in well over 1bn in levy charges to all motor insurance customers in Ireland. The 2.3bn owed to Anglo Irish Bank will see a multi-billion euro hit to the Irish taxpayer. Even the coronavirus crisis has played its part in adding to the costs for Irish taxpayers from the collapsed Quinn empire. The receivers appointed by IBRC still have control over several former Quinn family property assets in Ireland, the UK, India, and Ukraine. Ten years on and tens of millions of euro lost establishing the liquidator's right to these assets will no doubt result in poorer returns when they are eventually sold. Take three hotels formerly in the Quinn empire - The Slieve Russell Hotel in Cavan, Buswells in Dublin and the Hilton Hotel in Prague. The receiver could not sell them until the Quinn family and IBRC had reached a settlement around mutual litigation that had dragged on for years. Eventually a settlement was reached in April 2019. This saw the family drop all its claims to these hotel and other property assets, along with several pubs. However, it took IBRC's special liquidators until November to notify the competition authorities of the new sole ownership of these assets following the court settlement. It then took the Republic's Competition and Consumer Protection Commission until February to give a green light to this new arrangement. So finally, 12 years after the collapse of the Quinn empire, nine years after the special liquidators were appointed to IBRC, and 10 months after the court settlement, the path was finally clear to sell these assets. But along came Covid-19. The pandemic has hammered the hotels sector and international tourism. IBRC is owed 230m on the 700-room Hilton Hotel in Prague, which is the largest hotel in the Czech Republic. Back in 2018, the hotel was independently valued at 222m. In 2018 and 2019 the hotel sector in Prague was booming with deals. Hotel transactions tripled in 2019 with 539m worth of deals taking place in Prague alone. Hotel occupancy in the Czech capital was at near-peak levels in 2019 according to a real estate report by Cushman & Wakefield. An opportunity may have been missed. In Ireland, the Slieve Russell Hotel remains one of the few hotels to fall into receivership in the financial crash that has still not been sold. Buswells Hotel has benefited from the enormous lift in hotel trading that took place from about 2015 to early 2020. The sale of these hotels was held back, initially by litigation. But there was also a further 10 months after the settlement that was lost. The ultimate cost of this to the taxpayer will depend on how well the sector bounces back and when. IBRC's special liquidation was due to wrap up in 2021 but that will have to be extended by another year because of the pandemic. We saw the sensitivity and fallout from the sale of the cement and building materials group to the current consortium back in 2014. Years of sabotage and intimidation and culminated in the brutal abduction of Mr Lunney. The future sale of a large hotel in Prague is unlikely to draw much attention in the local community around Ballyconnell. Neither would the sale of Buswells' Hotel in Dublin 2. But the future ownership of the Slieve Russell Hotel could be contentious among some who still feel aggrieved about Sean Quinn's loss of his empire. Mr Quinn himself has condemned the attacks that have taken place. Sadly, every piece of contention around the ownership of these assets reduces their value for taxpayers, drags down the potential of the businesses and it also has an impact on employment in the area. The mighty Quinn name will disappear from the cement lorries. But having carried many jobs in the area for decades, it also carries a mighty cost. By Aditya Kalra and Abhirup Roy MUMBAI (Reuters) - Netflix has partially released its much-awaited series on four Indian tycoons facing fraud allegations after a state court lifted an injunction over the weekend, a lawyer representing Netflix said on Monday. The "Bad Boy Billionaires: India" documentary series about liquor tycoon Vijay Mallya, Subrata Roy of the Sahara group, IT executive Ramalinga Raju and jeweller Nirav Modi was set for release last month. Netflix, the world's largest streaming service, suspended the show's release after an order from the ... STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Forget about any of President Donald Trumps blusterings about potential fraud when it comes to voting by mail. Weve got plenty of simple incompetence to go around, and it should make anybody seriously question whether New York is ready to handle what is likely to be a monsoon of mailed-in ballots for this years presidential election. It was revealed last week that because of a vendor error, nearly 100,000 Brooklyn residents had received faulty envelopes as part of their absentee ballot packages. The envelopes had the wrong voter name and address on them. A very bad thing, as voters are supposed to place their completed ballots in the envelopes and sign the outside before sending it back to the Board of Elections. If the name on the envelope doesnt match the signature, the ballot could be disqualified. Imagine the scandal if that many votes were potentially called into question and voided. Think of the court cases. Think of the delay in finalizing the vote. Not that its likely to change the outcome in bluer-than-blue New York State. And the BOEs fix could be just as problematic. The agency will send new ballots to those voters who received improper envelopes. But as Gov. Andrew Cuomo pointed out, there was nothing wrong with the actual ballots the voters received. The problem was with the envelopes. Why send duplicate absentee ballots to people who have already received valid absentee ballots? Having that many duplicate ballots floating around is ripe for potential errors if not fraud right there. Talk about muddy waters. And it could only get muddier the closer we get to Election Day. New York City simply isnt ready a massive volume of absentee voting. Our system just isnt built out to handle it. And the BOE isnt always a paragon of efficiency even in the best of times, never mind during the most hotly contested presidential election in decades. Theres nothing wrong with voting by mail. Other states have done it for years. But they have long-standing systems in place. Theyre not doing things on the fly. And even more people could be looking to vote by mail after Trump tested positive for coronavirus last week, sparking new concerns about the potential dangers of the virus. Thats going to keep people away from the polling places. And the problems for New Yorkers dont end with the Brooklyn snafu. Recall how long it took us to count the votes from this years primaries, a much smaller number of ballots than the avalanche we expect to see less than a month from now. Meanwhile, other states allow for ballots to arrive ever-later past Election Day, so long as theyre postmarked properly. California allows ballots to arrive until 17 days after Election Day. In Illinois, its 14 days. Ohio, 10 days. Meanwhile, nine overseas military ballots that were marked for Trump were found in the garbage in one county in Pennsylvania. Sure, it was only a handful of votes, but it fed Trumps narrative that the whole process cant be trusted. The Brooklyn snafu only magnified those concerns. And isnt it odd that the more technologically advanced we get as a society, the more we return to a positively primitive way of voting? Havent we gone beyond marking a ballot by hand and mailing it back? It really makes you hanker for the days of the old-fashioned lever voting machines. Each machine a closed system. Simple and direct. Easy to count the vote quickly. Not many opportunities for fraud. We dont need Trump to cast doubt on voting by mail. The city BOE and other places are already doing the job for him. Democrats are calling for a delay in the confirmation hearing of Amy Coney Barrett on the grounds that two members of the Senate Judiciary Committee Mike Lee and Thom Tillis have tested positive for the Wuhan coronavirus. This tactic comes as no surprise. Im pretty sure that if roles were reversed, Republicans would be calling for delay on the same grounds. I dont think there is any need for delay. I hope that Lee and Tillis will be cleared to participate in person when the hearings begin on October 12 and that no other members will test positive in the meantime. If Lee and Tillis (or any other member) cant show up, they can appear remotely. Senators Klobuchar, Tillis, Hirono, and Blackburn appeared remotely in May at the confirmation of Justin Walker for the D.C. Circuit. If the virus strikes the Committee to the point where hearings cant start on October 12, and if this results in no confirmation vote before Election Day, the process can, and should, be completed thereafter. I would be troubled by a lame duck Senate confirming a lame duck presidents Supreme Court nominee (assuming, for purposes of discussion, that President Trump loses). However, if the process is delayed by exigent circumstances like illness, completing it after the election will be less problematic. Ironically, though, the White House ceremony announcing Judge Barretts nomination might very well have caused the virus to spread, thus conceivably making her confirmation less certain. Indeed, it may be that Trump was infected at that event. In my view, the event was conducted in an irresponsible manner. A crowd of about 150 people was seated close together. Virtually no one wore a mask not even people who, by virtue of their age or other factors, are at a heightened risk of dying from the virus. Mike Lee and Thom Tillis were present, as were others who recently tested positive, including Trump. Photos show Lee hugging people. The main event was outdoors, but it was preceded by an indoor gathering which included Trump, the First Lady, Lee, Tillis, and Chris Christie, who has also tested positive. Christie would seem to be at high risk given his gender, weight, and history of asthma. He has been hospitalized. There were additional indoor gatherings after the outdoor ceremony. Do Christie and Lee have the sense they were born with? President Trump accepted his partys nomination for president during a similar, but larger event on the White House lawn. As with the Barrett event, very few attendees wore masks. I worried that the acceptance speech event might cause infections. It does not appear to have done so perhaps because there was no indoor gathering, perhaps due to luck. But the presidents luck may have run out. I dont think the Barrett nomination is in serious jeopardy as a result. However, there may be other serious adverse consequences from the White House lawn event in terms of health and politics. President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Duluth International Airport in Duluth, Minn., on Sept. 30, 2020. (Stephen Maturen/Getty Images) Trump Will Be Back to Full Throttle Campaigning Very, Very Soon, Senior Adviser Predicts President Donald Trump will be back on the campaign trail very soon, a senior campaign adviser said Monday. Were hopeful that hes going to be released from the hospital today, and were extremely confident that this man, hes an incredible fighterhes been governing throughout this whole processbut were confident that hes going to be back at full throttle campaigning very, very soon, Steve Cortes, a senior Trump campaign adviser, said on Fox Business Mornings With Maria. Doctors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where Trump is receiving treatment for COVID-19, say the president could be discharged back to the White House as soon as Monday. We in the campaign will defer to them. Of course were not going to pressure the president, but believe me, nobody needs to pressure him, this is a man who wants to get back to work yesterday, Cortes said. According to the White House and members of Congress, Trump has continued working since his recent diagnosis, keeping tabs on the Supreme Court nomination process and other matters, primarily through phone calls. Trump was diagnosed with COVID-19 on Oct. 1 and was moved to Walter Reed the following day after receiving supplemental oxygen. COVID-19 is the disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus. President Donald Trump participates in a phone call with Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley in his conference room at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., Oct. 4, 2020. Not shown in the photo also in the room on the call is chief of staff Mark Meadows. (Tia Dufour/The White House/Handout via Reuters) Until Trump can go back out and campaign in person, he may start doing virtual events, Cortes said. Were going to see, depending on his condition, what he can do via videotape, digitally, until hes ready to get out physically again, he said. Safety protocols at Trump campaign events wont change, another campaign adviser said Sunday. Both Cortes and Rudy Giuliani, the presidents personal attorney, expressed optimism about Trumps condition. Hes feeling great, Giuliani, who spoke to Trump on Sunday evening, told ABCs Good Morning America earlier Monday. He wants to get out. He sounds perfect. I just cautioned him to listen to his doctors. I said, I hope thats not your decision, its the doctors. He said, no, no, these guys are great. Ill do what they tell me.' Giuliani defended Trumps decision to take a quick trip in an SUV around Walter Reed to wave to his supporters. The president wanted to show people Im around, Im doing well, Giuliani said. Trump was in the vehicle with several Secret Service agents. All were wearing masks. A White House spokesman told reporters later Sunday that appropriate precautions were taken and the movement was cleared by the medical team. Patna: A special NIA court on Tuesday granted the agency 11 days remand of the three ISI suspects arrested in January for their alleged role in triggering train derailments. Judge Manoj Kumar Sinha accepted NIAs prayer for custody of the three. The same court had on Monday sent them to judicial custody till February 17. Motilal Paswan, Mukesh Yadav and Umashanker Patel were arrested from Bihars East Champaran district on January 17. During the course of investigation, Paswan admitted to playing a role in the derailment of Indore-Patna Express near Kanpur on November 20, 2016 in which around 150 passengers were killed. Also read: Video | NIA arrests ISI agent Shamshul Hoda for conspiring train accidents in India; 3 FIRs registered After their arrest, East Champaran Superintendent of Police Jitendra Rana had claimed that the trio had confessed to have worked for a Nepali contact suspected to be connected with ISI. The three were allegedly involved in more than a dozen criminal cases and were roped in by Nepali contacts to trigger train mishaps in India, Rana had said. They were arrested in the course of a probe into the murder of two persons in Nepal in December last year for failing to explode bombs on railway tracks at Ghorasahan area of East Champaran district on October 1, 2016, the SP said. NIA took over investigation in the wake of disclosures during the probe. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. The anti-graft agency, EFCC, on Monday, explained why it is yet to re-arraign a former Abia State governor, Uzor Kalu, for theft of public funds and money laundering, five months after a Supreme Court order. Mr Kalu, who is the current Senate chief whip, representing Abia North, had served about six months in prison for stealing N7.1 billion from Abia State treasury while he served as governor between 1999 and 2007. The EFCC had in 2018 re-arraigned the two-term governor alongside Ude Udeogu, a former director of finance and account in Abia, and his company, Slok Nigeria Limited, on a 39-count charge before the Federal High Court in Lagos. Later in December last year, Mr Kalu and the two others were sentenced to 12-year jail terms by Justice Mohammed Idris, who as of then had been elevated to the court of appeal bench, in a legal tussle that started in 2007. But, on May 8 this year, the Supreme Court, in a unanimous decision by a seven-member panel led by Justice Amina Augie, held that Mr Idris should not have continued to hear the case having been elevated to the appeal court. READ ALSO: The court, therefore, ordered a fresh trial of Mr Kalu and the other defendants. However, the apex court verdict did not include releasing Mr Kalu from prison. His counsel, therefore, filed a suit before the Lagos federal high court for Mr Kalus release. In a judgement by Justice Mohammed Liman at the Lagos court, the correctional centre was ordered to release Mr Kalu from its Kuje facility. The centre obeyed the next day. In reaction to the verdict, the EFCC, in May via a statement by the then spokesperson, Dele Olawale, described the order as quite unfortunate. The commission also vowed to prepare a fresh and immediate re-trial. Five months later, the EFCC is yet to re-arraign Mr Kalu and his company. PREMIUM TIMES had reported in June, how he resumed legislative duties about a week after he was released from prison. Some outfits including Transparency International Nigeria, had called on the commission to act on the earlier statement it issued. Dear @officialEFCC, it is 5 months since the Supreme Court voided the conviction of Ex-Governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu & 2 others in a N7.6bn money laundering trial and your subsequent statement for immediate re-trial. How long before they will be re-arraigned in court? pic.twitter.com/XQHuumVKWs TransparencIT Nigeria (@TransparencITng) October 5, 2020 https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js Dear @officialEFCC, it is 5 months since the Supreme Court voided the conviction of Ex-Governor of Abia State, Orji Uzor Kalu & 2 others in a N7.6bn money laundering trial and your subsequent statement for immediate re-trial. How long before they will be re-arraigned in court? pic.twitter.com/XQHuumVKWs TransparencIT Nigeria (@TransparencITng) October 5, 2020 Our stance- EFCC What is holding up that matter is an issue of jurisdiction in the court system, the EFCC spokesperson, Wilson Uwujaren, said in a phone interview with PREMIUM TIMES on Monday, He added: when the judgement was given, it was directed that the matter should go back to the trial court and it was learnt that the chief judge in Lagos transferred the matter to Abuja. The commission is asking that that should not be so because it is largely a Lagos matter and Abuja does not have jurisdiction for that. The commissions request for a transfer of the case back to Lagos has not been done. That is why progress has not been done (achieved), he said. I wrote about former FBI Director James Comeys appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee last week in Dirtiest cop testifies. Maria Bartiromo invited Rep. Devin Nunes to discuss Comeys appearance on her Sunday Morning Futures show yesterday (video below, posted here at FOX News). In his response to Bartiromos opening question, Nunes alluded to the letter by DNI John Ratcliffe that we posted in Today in Russia hoax news. In her second question Bartiromo quoted Kim Strassels Wall Street Journal Potomac Watch column The James Comey election. In the course of the interview Nunes cited Lee Smiths invaluable book The Plot Against the President, which we excerpted here. The Russian spy to whom Nunes referred towward the end of the interview is former Brookings Institute researcher Igor Danchenko, the subject of Eric Feltens RCP column Dossier Source Was a Suspected Russian Spy, and the FBI Knew It When It Spied on Carter Page. We havent yet gotten to the bottom of the biggest political scandal in American history and, if Joe Biden is elected president, we never will. That Biden himself was a guilty actor in the underlying events is of approximately no interest to the media adjunct of the Democratic Party that itself played the role of a protagonist in the scandal. The Weir Group has announced it will sell its oil and gas division to heavy equipment manufacturer Caterpillar in a 314million deal that signals the firm's departure from the struggling petroleum sector. Shares in the Glasgow-based engineer jumped by 15.9 per cent to 14.84 after it revealed the agreed sale this morning, which it hopes to finalise by the end of the year, subject to shareholder approval. The oil and gas industry has been set back by massive volatility in the last year, as the coronavirus pandemic caused demand to slump, an oil price war to erupt between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and prices to fall to their lowest in decades. Weir said it would use some of the proceeds from the sale to pay down its debts and that it will earn a $70million cash tax benefit from the transaction Weir's oil and gas division has been badly affected by this downturn. It recorded a 4million operating loss in the first six months of 2020 against a 29million profit in the same period last year, while revenues plummeted by 48 per cent. But it has also been harmed for some years by the weaknesses in the North American fracking market, where it has been a significant supplier of drilling equipment. Its products include fracking pumps, hydraulic valves and wellheads. In 2019, the company's oil and gas earnings fell by a quarter. And though it reported being 'modestly profitable' in the second half, it registered a $546million impairment charge and was forced to implement large cost-cutting measures. Weir said it would use net proceeds from the sale to pay down its debts and that it will earn a $70million cash tax benefit from the transaction. Chief executive Jon Stanton called the deal a 'major milestone' for the FTSE 250 business that would enable it to put more focus on its mining operations. These operations earned 653million in revenues in the first half of 2020, which was over 300million more than the earnings of its ESCO, and oil and gas divisions combined. The oil and gas industry has been damaged this year by a slump in its price and demand 'We are pleased to have reached this agreement that delivers a great home for the Oil & Gas division and maximises value for our stakeholders,' Stanton added. 'Alongside the previous sale of the Flow Control division and the acquisition of ESCO, it is a major milestone in transforming the Group into a focused, premium mining technology business. 'It means Weir is ideally positioned to benefit from long-term structural demographic trends and climate change actions which will increase demand for essential metals that must also be produced more sustainably and efficiently. The Weir Group has also been harmed for some years by the weaknesses in the North American fracking market, where it has been a significant supplier of drilling equipment In July, Illinois-based Caterpillar, considered a bellwether for economic activity, warned of continued sluggishness in equipment sales due to the coronavirus pandemic, with its main customers in highly cyclical businesses such as mining and construction. In a separate statement, it said the deal covered more than 40 Weir Oil & Gas manufacturing and services locations and about 2,000 employees. "This acquisition will expand our offerings to one of the broadest product lines in the well service industry," Joe Creed, Vice President of Caterpillar's Oil & Gas and Marine Division, remarked. The arrangement includes Weir's North American and international oil and gas operations, comprising its Pressure Pumping and Pressure Control business units, and associated after-market spares among other things. A man salvages what he can from the debris of a destroyed church in Bailu Township in Pengzhou of Sichuan Province, China, on May 31, 2008. (China Photos/Getty Images) Seller of Religious Books in China Sentenced to 7 Years Prison A man in Chinas Zhejiang Province has been sentenced to seven years in prison by the Linhai city court for his alleged illegal online selling of religious books that he imported from overseas. Chen Yu was sentenced over his business operations on Sept. 27, according to Radio Free Asia (RFA). He was also fined 200,000 yuan ($29,450). Chen sold about 770 different religion-related books and periodicals imported from the United States and Taiwan. Chen is not the only one in trouble with the authorities; his customers have also reportedly been subject to investigation by local police. RFA reported that authorities tracked down Chens customers through the order information that they seized from Chens online store. Those customers, who identified themselves as Christians from Shandong, Henan, and Zhejiang provinces, said that their homes were raided by the local police, who seized their religious books that are not approved by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Wheat Study has been deemed as an anti-China force, police said during the home searches, according to RFA. Wheat Study is the name of Chens online bookstore. According to a notice from local authorities obtained by RFA, more than 10,000 suspected customers were interrogated by police. One Christian, on condition of anonymity, expressed his disapproval of the courts sentence for Chen. Its very unfair because Christians cause no disruption to society at all while operating such book stores, he told RFA. It was easier years ago, he added. You could buy online Christian readings to your liking. Now, they are all banned. Theyll track you down if you leave any message. Basically, we dont buy anything. I download electronic versions online because I know how to circumvent the Great Firewall, he said, referring to the Chinese regimes surveillance and censorship tool used to block Chinese access to targeted websites, particularly from pro-democracy countries. Another Christian said he has become extremely cautious since government officials probed his purchases of religious books. To prevent his transactions from being monitored, the man deleted all his apps and contacts with religious ties from his cell phone, and left the religious online groups he was participating in on social media. Zhang Jialin, a professor at the Department of Religion and Information Management of Aletheia University in Taiwan, told RFA that the latest court ruling was a shocking blow to religious freedom in China. He said he had never heard of such severe punishment for the selling of an unapproved religious book, though such titles have long been deemed illegal by the CCP. Criminal penalties have been ticketed for similar incidents, but none of them have been so heavy-handed. Presumably, the local court did so to toe Xi Jinpings religious policies, Zhang added. Campaign: Sinicization of Religions In 2014, scenes of churches across China having their crosses removed shocked many Christians in China and around the world. On Feb. 27 that year, for example, authorities in Yuhang district of Hangzhou city, Zhejiang Province, mobilized over 200 people and a crane to rapidly dismantle a cross on the Huanghu church within 20 minutes. Then, at a United Front meeting held in Beijing May 18 to 20, 2015, Chinese leader Xi Jinping put forward for the first time the sinicization of religions. He outlined his policy to adapt religionsChristianity, Buddhism, and othersto the needs of the CCPs socialism with Chinese characteristics. Since then, reports grew nationwide of churches having their crosses forcibly removed by authorities. This year, at least 250 crosses were removed from churches in Luan, Maanshan, and Huibei cities in Anhui province between January and April, according to data from Bitter Winter, a magazine on religious liberty and human rights. On April 1, local authorities in Anhuis Fuyang city attempted to remove the cross of the 124-year-old Gulou Church. About 100 Christian believers showed up, attempting to stop the demolition. The cross was eventually taken down at 5 a.m. the next morning. The United States is targeting the corrupt investment practices used by the Peoples Republic of China to exploit the natural resources of nations around the globe, including in Cambodia. The U.S. Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control, or OFAC, designated the Chinese state-owned entity, Union Development Group, or UDG, for seizure and demolition of local Cambodians land for the construction of the Dara Sakor development project. UDG was sanctioned pursuant to Executive Order 13818, which builds on and implements the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act and targets perpetrators of serious human rights abuse and corruption, and their supporters. Part of the land granted to UDG extends into Botum Sakor National Park, a protected natural area that can only be handed over by Cambodian royal decree. In order to acquire the land, UDG registered itself as a Cambodian-owned company, headed by a Cambodian national, but within three years of receiving the land, UDG switched back to being a Chinese-owned and operated company without any repercussion. The Peoples Republic of China has used UDGs projects in Cambodia to advance its global ambitions. UDG-funded activities have forced Cambodians from their land and devastated the environment, hurting the livelihoods of local communities, all under the guise of converting Cambodia into a regional logistics hub and tourist destination. As is too often the case with Beijings One Belt One Road so-called development initiative, these activities have disproportionately benefitted the PRC, at the expense of the Cambodian people. In conjunction with a former Cambodian Army official Kun Kim, the Cambodian military cleared land for the Dara Sakor project by forceful means. Kim was instrumental in the UDG development and reaped significant financial benefit from his relationships with UDG. Cambodias Council of Ministers ordered UDG to stop destroying villagers property, but UDG ignored the directive and continued the destruction. Kim was previously designated by the U.S. for his role in corruption under the Global Magnitsky sanctions program in December 2019. The United States will continue to take steps to deter the PRCs exploitative investments in Cambodia and elsewhere and to stand with its partners and allies in Southeast Asia. Hong Kong: HK, Georgia sign tax pact The Government today said Hong Kong has signed a comprehensive avoidance of double taxation agreement (CDTA) with Georgia today, signifying its sustained efforts in expanding the citys tax treaty network. Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui signed the agreement on behalf of the Government. Georgia is an emerging economy which participates in the Belt & Road Initiative. This is the 45th CDTA that Hong Kong has concluded. It sets out the allocation of taxing rights between the two jurisdictions and will help investors better assess their potential tax liabilities from cross-border economic activities. Double taxation will be avoided in that any tax paid in Georgia by Hong Kong companies under the agreement will be allowed as a credit against the tax payable in Hong Kong on the same income, subject to the provisions of the tax laws of Hong Kong. Likewise, for Georgian companies, the tax paid in Hong Kong will be allowed as a deduction from the tax payable on the same income in Georgia. The agreement also provides tax relief arrangements. It will come into force after both sides complete ratification procedures. This story has been published on: 2020-10-05. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 04:51:00|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations is trying to avoid an environmental catastrophe off Yemen, renewing an appeal for greenlighting emergency inspection and repairs on the derelict tanker Safer, a UN spokesman said on Monday. "We remain extremely concerned about the oil tanker off the coast of Hodeidah, which is at risk of spilling more than 1.1 million barrels of oil into the Red Sea," said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "A major spill would create a major humanitarian and environmental catastrophe." "Based on current market availability of required equipment, we would need up to seven weeks from receipt of approvals until the mission staff could arrive on-site with necessary equipment," Dujarric told correspondents at a regular briefing. Recently, there have been published reports saying an oil leak has been spotted near the rusting vessel. For months the world organization has been trying to send an expert mission to conduct a technical assessment and complete any feasible initial repairs that would minimize the risk of a spill. The spokesman said UN experts have had several rounds of constructive technical discussions in recent weeks with representatives of the Houthi rebels who control the area in an attempt to agree on specifications for the proposed mission. Based on the talks, the United Nations submitted a proposal it expects will be quickly approved, he said. International donors have committed to cover costs associated with the mission. The tanker has been serving as an oil storage and offloading platform and has had virtually no maintenance for five years. The United Nations has said that the tanker could spill four times as much oil as during the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster off Alaska. There also have been published reports the Houthis believe the decaying vessel and its spill-threat serves as a deterrent to aerial bombing in the area. Enditem I have been forced to take this action as a result of the hostile work environment and culture of abusive behavior that pervades the museum, the lack of resources and authority provided to meet established goals, Mr. Walker, who moved from Miami to become the director of development, wrote in 2016. The situation I have described to you is intolerable. Many former employees say they would have been happy to build careers there, had the conditions been different. Management seems to feel that turnover is good, that they give people a start in the art world, said Lily Bartle, an editor at the museum, who helped organize the union and was laid off in April after less than two years there. But the reality is, people are trapped in low-paying positions and are forced to come and go quickly. You would be emailing somebody and realize they had left weeks ago. I think I got about 13 new phone lists in just my last six months of working there. The museum said that it does not have high turnover and that its attrition rate is normal for a museum of its size: Of 68 full-time staff, 25 have been with the New Museum for over eight years and another 10 for over five years. Ms. Phillips remains widely respected by many artists and art professionals. Ive known Lisa for more than three decades and think she is one of the most outstanding director curators of her generation, said Adam Weinberg, the director of the Whitney Museum of American Art, where Ms. Phillips spent 23 years. She always puts the artists and the art first. I know former and current staff who only have good things to say. Some of the staff, such as Karen Wong, the deputy director, and Regan L. Grusy, the vice president of strategic partnerships, have come forward in recent days to express their support for Ms. Phillips. In an interview Jennifer Heslin, a former retail director at the New Museum, also described a very positive experience. Margot Norton, a curator of nine years there, said in an email that she has had incredible opportunities that have been possible due to the mentorship and support of Lisa Phillips and Massimiliano Gioni, the artistic director. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 5) Malacanang has dropped its months-old "stay at home" campaign and is now calling on Filipinos to head out and fly to Boracay island. "Ang mensahe po ng Presidente, kinakailangang mabuhay po tayo sa kabila ng COVID-19... Panahon na po para tayo ay magbakasyon matapos ng napakatagal na lockdown, lalong-lalo na sa Metro Manila," Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said on Monday as he staged his regular press briefing from the white sand shores of the popular tourist spot. [Translation: The President's message is that we need to live with COVID-19... It's time to take a vacation after the long lockdown, especially in Metro Manila.] Boracay reopened its doors to all tourists on October 1 but subject to strict guidelines. Negative swab tests are required before visitors are allowed to enter the white sand paradise. This comes weeks after the island started accepting visitors from within the Western Visayas region only. Roque and his team headed to Malay, Aklan over the weekend, joining a handful of tourists who braved the COVID-19 pandemic after seven months of community quarantine. "Ang talagang messaging po natin ngayon doon sa advertisement na pinroduce ng Office of the Press Secretary at suportado po ng IATF, DOH, at Department of Finance: ingat-buhay para sa hanapbuhay... 'Yan din po ang thrust ng second National Action Plan ng national task force on COVID-19," the Malacanang official said, even shooting a promotional video featuring himself as he walked around Boracay to shop and eat while showing the safety protocols in place. [Translation: Our real messaging now as seen in the advertisement produced by the Office of the Press Secretary and supported by the IATF, DOH, and Department of Finance: taking care of yourself while supporting other people's livelihoods... That's also the thrust of the second National Action Plan of the national task force on COVID-19.] Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores said only about 50 tourists per day have entered the province since last Thursday, as local businesses hope to entice more to revive sales and jobs. He assured that strict health standards are being followed to maintain Boracay's COVID-free status. READ: Boracay tourists to use separate airport from Aklan LSIs to avoid COVID-19 transmission Tourists need a negative polymerase chain reaction test result taken within 48 hours of traveling to Boracay to be allowed entry. Roque said that while Boracay may seem ready to accept foreign tourists, he doubts if they are willing to take the trip now as most countries require residents to undergo two-week quarantine upon returning home. Prior to the pandemic, Korean and Chinese tourists visited the island in droves. Henry Chusuey, who owns the Henann Resorts chain in the island, said the hassle and cost of swab tests could be stopping travelers from taking a trip to Boracay. Miraflores said local hotels are offering up to 75 percent discount on room rates just to attract customers, with Chusuey revealing that only about 20 of his resort's more than 1,600 rooms are currently occupied. "If it is easier for the tourists at hindi masyadong hassle ang requirements, more tourists, I believe, would come and more employment will be given to the workers," Chusuey said, adding that not all of their group's employees have returned to their posts as clients remain scarce. The Boracay-based businessman also batted for antigen swab testing at the Caticlan airport, which is cheaper and yields faster results than the PCR method to detect COVID-19. However, Roque said antigen tests are still being studied and the IATF has decided to wait for the findings of the pilot run in Baguio City before approving their widespread use. "Hindi naman po kasi natin pupwedeng isakripisyo 'yung kalusugan din ng mga tiga-Boracay [We cannot also sacrifice the safety of Boracay residents]," Roque said, disclosing that doubts remain on the validity of a negative result from an antigen test and that the PCR test is still the "gold standard" for detecting the coronavirus from throat and nose swab samples. READ: Traveling to Boracay? Here's what you need to know Queen Elizabeth held an emergency summit meeting at Sandringham in January after Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex made their shocking Megxit announcement. Her Majesty met with Harry, Prince William, and Prince Charles to negotiate the terms of Harry and Meghans exit from the family as senior working royals. One person who was not part of the negotiations was Prince Philip. According to a new book, this was because Queen Elizabeth hid Harry and Meghans shenanigans. Queen Elizabeth with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry | Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images Prince Philip is the subject of a new royal biography According to Express, Prince Philip is the subject of a new biography from royal expert Ingrid Seward. Titled Prince Philip Revealed: A Man of His Century, the book gives insight into Philips role in the monarchy. Prince Philip has been by Queen Elizabeths side for more than seven decades. Royal expert Camilla Tominey recently discussed the details of the book on ITVs This Morning. She explained that Philip sacrificed everything in order to walk a couple of steps behind his wife for the entirety of her reign. The most notable thing the Duke of Edinburgh gave up was his entire military career. He made the sacrifice to serve the Queen and the country. I think that theyre people of their generation who think that you should put duty first. Whether people agree with them on that, remains to be seen, Tominey said. She also pointed out that Seward has a very interesting line in her book about how Prince Philip felt about Megxit. Queen Elizabeth initially hid Megxit from Prince Philip Newsweek reports that Sewards new book reveals what happened at the palace in the days surrounding Harry and Meghans shocking announcement. Seward claims that Queen Elizabeth had a plan to shield her husband from the summit at Sandringham. Queen Elizabeth met with her oldest son and two grandsons for hours. In the meantime, Seward claims the Monarch asked Penelope Knatchbull, Countess Mountbatten of Burma, to take Philip for a drive. RELATED: Prince Philip Thought He Was Going to Have to Be a Yes Man for the Rest of His Life When Elizabeth Became Queen The queen refused to allow their shenanigans to get to her husband, Seward writes. So, when she called an emergency summit at Sandringham on January 13she asked one of her house guests, Countess Mountbatten, to drive him away from the house at least for the duration of the meeting. Seward claims that the queen, her son, and grandsons sat in the library and thrashed out a solution that would allow Harry and Meghan their freedom. At the same time, Philip remained out of the way. Queen Elizabeths husband found the idea of Megxit impossible Seward claims that the queen knew Harry and Meghan were unhappy with their lives as senior royals. But, she was not aware they intended to live half in, half out of the royal family. The author added that Prince Philip found the idea impossible. It must have come as a heavy blow for Prince Philip to know that his grandson would be more or less giving up his homeland and everything he cared about for a life of self-centered celebrity in North America, Seward writes. RELATED: The Real Reason Queen Elizabeth Is Returning to Buckingham Palace and Leaving Prince Philip Behind She continued, writing that Philip knew leaving the royal family was not a decision that Harry made lightly. However, he couldnt grasp what it was about the family firm that made his grandsons life so unbearable. Seward writes that Queen Elizabeths husband based his entire existence on dedication to the throne and doing the right thing. However, for Prince Philip, it appeared that his grandson had abdicated in the same way as Edward VIII. When he gave up his crown to marry an American divorcee. Prince Philip Revealed: A Man of His Century is now available in bookstores. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Reuters) Los Angeles, United States Mon, October 5, 2020 12:32 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4923e78 2 Entertainment Harvey-Weinstein,los-angeles,Sexual-assault,film Free Disgraced film producer Harvey Weinstein has been charged with six more counts of forcible sexual assault in Los Angeles, the Los Angeles District Attorney said on Friday. The charges involve two victims and stem from incidents that occurred more than a decade ago, District Attorney Jackie Lacey said in a statement. Weinstein, who was convicted earlier this year in New York of sex crimes, now faces a total of four counts each of forcible rape and forcible oral copulation, two counts of sexual battery by restraint and one count of sexual penetration by use of force, involving five victims for crimes that span from 2004 to 2013 in the Los Angeles area, Lacey said. Representatives for Weinstein, who is serving 23 years in prison in New York, had no immediate comment on the new charges. Weinstein has always denied having nonconsensual sex with anyone. If convicted as charged in Los Angeles, the once powerful Hollywood mogul faces up to 140 years to life in state prison, according to Friday's statement. "I am thankful to the first women who reported these crimes and whose courage have given strength to others to come forward, Lacey said in a statement. "The willingness of these latest victims to testify against a powerful man gives us the additional evidence we need to build a compelling criminal case," she added. Weinstein, 68, was originally charged in January by Los Angeles prosecutors with sexually assaulting two women during separate incidents in 2013. His conviction in New York for sexual assault and rape in a criminal case was hailed as a victory for the #MeToo movement against sexual misconduct by powerful men. Prosecutors in Los Angeles have initiated a request for temporary custody of Weinstein from New York. An extradition hearing is set for December. Dr. Sean Conley, the White House physician who is under fire for holding back information about the president's medical regimen, was 'hand-picked' for the job by predecessor Dr. Ronny Jackson. Conley has drawn sharp criticism for his weekend press conferences, undertaken outside Walter Reed medical center while the president undergoes treatment for COVID-19. He initially held back information about the president going on artificial oxygen, and has declined to disclose information about the state of the president's lungs. He also prescribed the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine to the president as a preventive treatment for the coronavirus, and appears to have signed off on the president's short trip in an SUV outside of Walter Reed with agents in tow to waive to supporters despite having the coronavirus. Dr. Sean Conley, physician to President Donald Trump, briefs reporters at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020. Conley was recommended for his post by predecessor Dr. Ronny Jackson He stated Sunday when pressed about his optimistic statements about the president's health only later to reveal the president's blood oxydenation levels had twice dropped below normal. 'I was trying to reflect the upbeat attitude that the team, the president, over his course of illness,' Conley said. 'I didn't want to give any information that might steer the course of illness in another direction. And in doing so, you know, it came off that we were trying to hide something, which wasn't necessarily true.' Conley, 40, was elevated after assuming his post on an acting basis after the departure of Dr. Ronny Jackson, who in February 2019 declared Trump in 'very good health' despite being clinically obese. Trump tapped Jackson to run the Veterans Affairs Department, only to have the nomination blow up. Opon Jackson's departure, the longtime White House physician 'hand-picked' Conley to succeed him, NBC News reported. The director of White House operations recommended Conley get the job. He was then the senior doctor in the White HOuse medical unit. The promotion happened 'without proper vetting,' a member of the White House medical team told NBC. Conley appeared Saturday and Sunday with members of the president's medical team Dr. Ronny Jackson called Trump in 'very good health' in 2019 Trump's longtime personal physician, Dr. Harold Bornstein, issued an over-the-top letter vouching for Trump's health during the 2016 campaign that he later said Trump had dictated to him President Donald Trump shakes hands with White House physician Dr. Ronny Jackson as he boards Marine One as he leaves Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., Friday, Jan. 12, 2018, after his first medical check-up as president Conley is a doctor of osteopathic medicine, having obtained medical training in a field that also promotes spinal and skeletal manipulations as treatment. He received Navy training in emergency medicine, and spent six months at a military medical facility in Afghanistan. During his residency, he won the 'Nurse's Choice Award,' the Washington Post reported. Conley accompanied President Trump on his November 2019 unscheduled trip to Walter Reed. Conley, a Navy commander, issued a statement saying the visit was 'for a routine, planned interim checkup.' He said Trump had not had any chest pain, 'nor was he evaluated or treated for any urgent or acute issues' but provided little information about the visit, prompting questions about whether the president had experienced a serious event. Conley did not provide any medical briefing for the press on Friday, after the early morning revelation that Trump had tested positive for the coronavirus. When he did speak on Saturday, he repeatedly dodged questions about whether the president had been given oxygen, saying: 'He's not on oxygen right now.' It was only on Sunday that he revealed there were two instances when Trump's oxygenation levels dropped below 94 per cent, which is below the normal level of above 95. On Saturday, he stated: Yesterday and today he was not on oxygen.' But on Sunday he said Trump had in fact been on oxygen Friday morning, when he said the level was 'transiently dipping below 94 per cent.' Conley refused to provide specifics when asked about the president's x-rays, scans, and pneumonia. 'We're tracking all of that. There are some expected findings but nothing of any major clinical concern,' he said. Earlier this year, Conley prescribed hydroxychloroquine for Trump. It is an anti-malarial drug that has been studied for possible benefits for people who have the coronavirus, but several studies have shown it does not have value. Conley also appears to have cleared Trump's 'joy-ride' to greet supporters outside Walter Reed, despite the president having the coronavirus. 'The movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do,' said White House spokesman Judd Deere Sunday. A delegation of government officials, led by Land, Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kim Hyun-mee, center, heads to the departures area at Incheon International Airport to leave for Kuwait, Saturday, to pay condolences over the recent death of the Arab state's ruler. / Yonhap By Park Han-sol The government has offered condolences over the recent passing of Kuwaiti ruler Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah. The late Emir Sheikh Sabah passed away at the age of 91, according to the state media report, Sept. 29. His half-brother, Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmed, has been named as his successor. A delegation of six officials headed by Land Minister Kim Hyun-mee was sent to the Gulf Arab state, Saturday, for a three-day visit to Kuwait City to pay respects on behalf of the government. President Moon Jae-in also sent a message to the country last Thursday, extending deep condolences and commending Sheikh Sabah's humanistic leadership that brought political stability and economic prosperity to his country. The delegation will also deliver a letter from Moon congratulating the new ruler. Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha paid a condolence visit to the Embassy of Kuwait in Seoul, Monday. Since coming to the throne in 2006, the late emir was a central figure in developing Kuwait's foreign policy and has been touted as the "dean of Arab diplomacy" for his mediation efforts in regional disputes, including the Gulf crisis that pitted Qatar against Saudi Arabia and its Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) allies. TEL AVIV, Israel, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In the modern-day, all a company's most vital information is stored digitally. No longer is keeping it safe as simple as locking a filing cabinet. Cyberattacks are an increasing danger for companies. In 2020, there have been nearly 16 billion records exposed, a worrying 273 percent rise compared with the beginning of 2019. Most prominently was the Twitter hack in July, where 45 notable individuals were hacked in a Bitcoin scam. These attacks are growing in their sophistication. As such, companies need to evolve their security to protect their data from cybercriminal activities. Staying ahead of the curve is a priority. The holy grail of cybercrime is personally identifiable information, which can be sold off or ransomed for large amounts of money. Companies worldwide are legally obliged to follow GDPR compliance, under EU law, protecting such data from potential breaches, and conforming to the highest security standards. However, the question is: how do companies secure their data from attacks? Encryption is one of the most secure methods of personally identifiable information (PPI) protection. By using encryption, a company's valuable data will be protected from theft, as hackers have no means of decryption. Thereby, significantly reducing the impact of cyberattacks. Yet, encryption is complicated when dealing with the management of private keys. That's why we developed AnonyFlow (anonyflow.com). AnonyFlow uses encryption-based anonymization to protect part of the data. The rest will be left untouched. You decide which data you want to protect. Instead of going through the tedious process of secret key management, we handle everything for you. Through the API, information can be deanonymized whenever you need access. Data can also be shared safely and securely with colleagues or third parties. Plus, we always have a customer support team on hand to handle any queries or issues. With data breach risk mitigation becoming a hot topic in business, now is the time to improve your cyber defences. Using encryption as a service to protect the PPI in your care, you don't just defend against cybercriminals. Such protection is also in complete compliance with the increasingly stringent legislation, such as GDPR, CCPA, and HIPAA. By using AnonyFlow, only you have access to your information. As cybercrime continues to rise, AnonyFlow is the next step in data leak prevention. Don't leave your data vulnerable to cybercriminals. Let us help protect your company's valuable PPI data, thus, assuring your prosperity and security. Media Contact: Guy Bouenos [email protected] SOURCE AnonyFlow Related Links http://www.anonyflow.com New Delhi: The government has allowed people declaring unaccounted cash under the new black money amnesty scheme PMGKY to deposit in parts the mandatory 25 per cent of the total in a 4-year fund by March 31. Offering one last chance to black money holders, the government has given them time until March end to come clean by paying 50 per cent tax on bank deposits of junk currencies made post demonetisation. Under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY), declarants also have to park a quarter of the total sum in a non-interest bearing deposit scheme (PMGKDS) for four years. The Government has decided to allow declarants to make deposits on one or more occasions in the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Deposit Scheme (PMGKDS), 2016, said a statement by the Finance Ministry. As per the scheme, taxes will have to be paid first and then the scheme can be availed of on production of tax receipt, unlike the recent Income Disclosure Scheme and other such plans wherein disclosures were made first and taxes were recovered later. The PMGKY scheme commenced on December 17 and will remain open for declarations up to March 31. The scheme is part of The Taxation Laws (Second Amendment) Act, 2016, which was approved by the Lok Sabha on November 29. Also, as the disclosures will be kept confidential, the holder of unaccounted cash need not disclose it in Income Tax Returns forms. After the shock November 8 demonetisation announcement, the government allowed the junked Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes to be deposited in bank accounts. For those depositing unaccounted cash, the government offered the tax evasion amnesty scheme wherein 50 per cent tax will be charged on declarations and quarter of the total sum be parked in a non-interest bearing deposit for four years. Non declaration of undisclosed cash or deposit under the Scheme will render such undisclosed income liable to tax, surcharge and cess totalling to 77.25 per cent of such income if it is declared in the income tax returns. In case the same is not shown in the return of income a further penalty of 10 per cent of tax shall also be levied followed by prosecution. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. On The Rocks Cert: 12A, 1hr 36mins Rating: Sofia Coppola, of course, is the daughter of Francis Ford Coppola, director of The Godfather trilogy and other fine films. And while it seems a tad demeaning to mention that, given that Sofia will be 50 next year and is very much a successful film-maker in her own right, it might suggest that her upbringing was not entirely the same as yours or mine. Which in turn might explain why her new film On The Rocks is as much about a decidedly odd father-daughter relationship as it is as the title suggests about a marriage in trouble. Unless your father was in the habit of turning up late at night in a red convertible, clutching a holdall of caviar and setting off in pursuit of a New York taxi. In which case youll probably find nothing odd here at all. Laura's (Rashida Jones) devoted, eccentric and seriously wealthy art-dealer father (Bill Murray, above with Jones), offers support, cocktails and, er, surveillance Laura (Rashida Jones) is a New York writer, happily married it seems to a successful account executive (Marlon Wayans) but somewhat blocked creatively by the demands of her two small children. But shes getting by, until she suddenly finds an unfamiliar toiletries bag in her husbands luggage. Decorated with pink hearts. Enter her devoted, eccentric and seriously wealthy art-dealer father (Bill Murray, star of Coppolas brilliant Lost In Translation and pictured right with Jones), who offers support, cocktails and, er, surveillance. After all, who better to catch someone playing away than an ageing playboy whos clearly spent a lifetime playing away himself. And thanks to his genuine charm, getting away with it too. On The Rocks is a small, strange film but its rich in New York atmosphere, touching about the complexities of family relationships, and Murray and Jones are very sweet together. Oh, and Murray sings too; really rather nicely. 23 Walks Cert: 12A, 1hr 42mins Rating: 23 Walks is a gentle little British picture about a sixtysomething couple played by Alison Steadman (on our TV screens this week in Life) and I, Daniel Blake star Dave Johns who meet walking their respective dogs in North London parks and gradually fall in love. Until we discover that amiable, easy-going Dave has been hiding a rather big secret. Its a bit slow to get going, and could have done with better chemistry between the two leads, but does feature nice parks and one of the most startling sex scenes youll see all year. By Sandip Kumar Mishra When South Korean President Moon Jae-in claimed "We must put an end to the longest-running armistice in human history and achieve a complete end to the (Korean) War," he was criticized as being "out of the sync with the U.S. position." Moon made this remark in his virtual speech at the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Sept. 22. The U.S. State Department indicated its displeasure and said Sept. 23 that it was committed to close coordination with South Korea for a unified response to North Korea. Few other U.S. experts went to the extent of saying that until North Korea's denuclearization and viable peace is established, the replacement of the Armistice Agreement with a peace treaty is not appropriate. There are two main objections raised to Moon's proposal. One, Moon did not discuss such a move with the U.S. in advance and such a unilateral South Korean proposal might show a gap between the U.S. and South Korean positions that could weaken the alliance and trust between the two countries. In dealing with North Korea, both the U.S. and South Korea must have a coordinated policy to be effective and successful. Two, dealing with North Korea consists of not only ending the Armistice Agreement but also resolving nuclear and missile issues, as well as the provocative behavior of the North. South Korea should not attempt to have a peace treaty with the North when there is a deadlock between Washington and Pyongyang on the denuclearization issue. If the important objectives of North Korean denuclearization and the signing of a peace treaty are disconnected from each other, and a peace treaty is made without progress in denuclearization, it might lead to a weakened incentive for North Korea to denuclearize. However, the objections are not very convincing. To the first objection it could be said that South Korea as an independent country has every right to initiate a policy or take up a decision on its own. Actually, even though South Korea has a security alliance with the U.S., it does not mean that it has to necessarily get prior permission to make a gesture of peace toward North Korea, including suggesting an end to the Armistice Agreement. Reportedly, U.S. President Donald Trump also unilaterally declared after his Singapore summit with Kim Jong-un that the U.S.-South Korea joint military exercises would be postponed. Trump's move at that time was considered to be tactical as it could serve an important purpose in helping North Korean denuclearization. If Moon has also made a similar unilateral strategic move, it should not be presented as a threat to the South Korean alliance with the U.S. Furthermore, Moon's proposal is not entirely new. He has expressed, since the Panmunjeom Declaration, that South Korea should take the lead in the improvement of inter-Korea relations and leave North Korean denuclearization issues to the U.S. It has been argued that a peace treaty would be useful to bring trust in inter-Korean relations and it might help in the denuclearization process. Also, to have a coordinated stance with the U.S. does not mean that the U.S. and South Korea need to always have the same stance. The two countries may decide on a division of labor and play their respective roles to gain their desired results in dealing with North Korea. The view that the issues of North Korean denuclearization and the signing of a peace treaty must be connected is just one way to resolve the North Korean conundrum. It is true that in an ideal situation, attempts must be made to realize both the objectives simultaneously. However, if it's not possible, South Korea is right to consider giving priority to a peace treaty over North Korean denuclearization. If the "denuclearization first and peace treaty later" approach is not successful, it's a perfectly valid position to have the peace treaty first and expect North Korean denuclearization subsequently. Actually, there are scholars who convincingly argue that North Korea will not give up its nuclear and missile arsenals until its perception of threat is addressed. The nuclear weapons of North Korea are not the disease but a symptom. The disease is the sense of insecurity in North Korea. After the creation of a peace treaty, North Korea might find its nuclear weapons to be unnecessary and might give them up. Actually in his speech at the UNGA, President Moon categorically spelled out his vision of a peace economy in which "peace can lead to economic cooperation, which, in turn, will reinforce peace, all working in a virtuous cycle." He claimed that "no confrontation has occurred since the inter-Korean Comprehensive Military Agreement was signed" in September 2019. He talked about an end to the war on the peninsula along with a mutual security guarantee and co-prosperity with North Korea and his proposal must be read in its full context. However, it is perfectly valid to raise questions as to whether Moon's proposal can be realized under present conditions and how such proposals could work. In spite of Moon's committed efforts for better inter-Korea relations so far, changes in North Korean behavior have been less than satisfactory and even though the international community agrees with Moon's proposal, creating a peace treaty with North Korea will not be easy to move forward with. Sandip Kumar Mishra (sandipmishra10@gmail.com) is an associate professor at the Centre for East Asian Studies, the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi. IranAir launches first flight to Germany after six months 07/22/20 Source: Tehran Times Iran's flag carrier, Iran Air, has resumed flights to Germany after more than six months of hiatus due to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. According to the Iranian Embassy in Berlin, the airline operated its first direct flight to Germany on Saturday, after the route was closed in mid-February, Mehr reported. IranAir currently operates flights to England, the Netherlands, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Austria, and the UAE. Many flights to Europe were postponed after the start of the coronavirus pandemic. Iran-Turkey flights suspended once again The newly-reestablished Iran-Turkey flights operated by Turkish Airlines has been suspended once again due to coronavirus fears. Last week, and following months of ups and downs, the flag carrier resumed its flights to Tehran after six months of halt under strict health protocols, Maqsoud As'adi-Samani, secretary of the Association of Iranian Airlines (AIA) announced on Saturday. Outbound passengers were required to hold a health certificate with a negative coronavirus PCR test result, otherwise, the boarding pass won't be issued for them, he noted. For the time being the fate of the service is on the air, he said, adding: "The reason for these policies by the Turkish authorities is not clear and we do not know why they change their minds and decisions so quickly." The pandemic has taken a huge toll on Iran's civil aviation sector with reports showing that airlines lost hundreds of millions of dollars because of flight cancellations during the busy New Year travel season in late March. Some 1.37 million Iranian tourists visited Turkey during the first eight months of 2019, accounting for 4.4% of all international arrivals in the country. All Iran-Iraq flights called off until further notice Head of Iran's Civil Aviation Organization (CAO) has said that all flights of Iranian airlines and Iraqi Airways were canceled until further notice from Iran to Iraq and vice versa due to the spread of COVID-19. "All flights of Iranian airline companies and Iraq's flag career Iraqi Airways from Iran to the neighboring country and vice versa were abolished until further notice due to the outbreak of the second wave of coronavirus pandemic, COVID-19, as well as observing health guidelines as instructed by the Coronavirus Combat and Prevention Headquarters, Touraj Dehghan Zanganeh told Mehr news agency on Saturday. Before this order, a limited number of flights were scheduled to be operated by Iraqi Airlines to return Iraqi citizens present in Iran, he added. NEW YORK Personal injury attorney Steve Barnes, whose law firm Cellino & Barnes was known on two coasts for its catchy TV jingle, was killed Friday in a small plane crash in western New York. Barnes, a registered pilot, died along with his niece, Elizabeth Barnes, his longtime law partner told The Associated Press. The single-engine Socata TBM-700 crashed at about 11:45 a.m. in a wooded area near Pembroke, New York, authorities said, as it neared the end of a flight from Manchester, New Hampshire. His passing is a significant loss for the legal community, Barnes law partner Ross Cellino said. He was always a fearless advocate for his clients. Neighbors described the plane making a loud, whining noise, then dropping into a wooded area and exploding, Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron said. He said the plane had been destined for Buffalo. The plane was registered to a corporation that shares an address with Cellino & Barnes, records showed. Cellino & Barnes began as small firm in Buffalo but became well known in New York City and beyond for its ubiquitous advertising on billboards and on television. Its old-time jingle, in which the law firms phone number was put to song, has been the subject of a sketch on Saturday Night Live, and other late-night TV host jokes for years. Broadway actors in 2018 posted viral videos of themselves singing the jingle in what was dubbed the Cellino & Barnes Challenge. The law firms principal lawyers, Barnes and Cellino, appeared together in the advertisements, but had a falling out in recent years and battled each other in court. Barnes is survived by his longtime partner, fellow attorney Ellen Sturm, and three children. All of us at Cellino & Barnes are deeply saddened, Cellino said. The National Transportation Safety Board said it was investigating the cause of the crash. NTSB spokesman Terry Williams said the agency would release its initial report within seven to 10 days. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. MURRIETA, Calif., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- MedLaw Publishing's best-selling book "Capitol Hill's Criminal Underground" details government corruption at the highest levels of government. Readers of the book are being challenged to find one U.S. Senator in the book that did not participate in the $70 billion dollar fraud or the theft of $70 billion from the American people. That lucky person(s) will receive or share a two-million-dollar award. Winners will be announced on New Year's Day. Capitol Hill's Criminal Underground No purchase is necessary to enter. All participants need to send their responses to Capitol Hill's Criminal Underground, Attention; Richard Lawless, 30279 Redding Avenue, Murrieta, CA 92563. Mail in entries must be postmarked no later than December 15, 2020. We will also accept entries by email at [email protected]. All entries must be received by midnight (Pacific Time) on December 31, 2020. The Winner or Winners will be announced on New Year's Day. If there is more than one winner, the prize will be shared equally between all winning parties. Participants who have questions may reach out to the book's author, Richard Lawless at 951-440-5230. Amazon Books Link for "Capitol Hill's Criminal Underground" https://www.amazon.com/Capitol-Hills-Criminal-Underground-Exploration-ebook/dp/B07PVCZ8KN/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=capitol+hills+criminal+underground&qid=1601142840&s=digital-text&sr=1-1 Since this promotion started, four United States Senators have been removed from the list of one hundred eligible "Honest Senators". Every day more Senators are removed from the and sent to the Swamp Graveyard. Contact: Richard Lawless 19514405230 [email protected] SOURCE MedLaw Publishing A survey of Enterprise Ireland client companies attending this years International Markets Week showed contrasting fortunes for Irish exporters in 2020. While one in three saw their exports decline, some sectors, such as Lifesciences and Digital, saw export sales grow by 30%. Enterprise Ireland statistics show that export contracts signed by supported clients also fell 10% between January September this year, compared to the same period last year. Despite the impact of Covid-19 and the approaching Brexit deadline, many Irish exporters remain resilient and optimistic. According to the survey results, 57% expect to grow their exports in 2021 and 83% intend to hire new staff in 2021. More than eight in ten exporting companies are either confident or very confident about the international trading environment in 2021. Speaking at the official launch of International Markets Week, Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English said, "The exporting sector will continue to be a strong engine for growth and jobs in the Irish economy as we rebuild after the pandemic. Im heartened to see that over half of companies expect to grow their exports next year and that 83% expect to hire new staff. This is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Irish business owners." He added, "Irish business is facing two major challenges to recover from the impact of Covid-19 and mitigate any disruption to trade from the impending Brexit deadline. The Government has provided targeted grants and advisory services to address both these vital issues through our agencies, including Enterprise Ireland and I would urge every exporting company to seek advice and support now." Source: www.businessworld.ie Last Week Tonight host John Oliver covers a wide range of topics on his Emmy-winning HBO show, including U.S. politics, bias in medicine, prison labor, and human rights abuses in China. But Oliver also finds time to poke fun at local news, from tired concerns about teens to whether or not you should stare at the sun. On Sunday, he mocked television cliches by highlighting newscasters trying to have fun with what month it is, including a Syracuse TV anchor. Its spooky season, Frankie Jupiter said on CNYCentrals NBC-3 (WSTM), in front of a graphic showing the Halloween attraction Fright Nights. Jupiter, who anchors Today in Central New York, was among a dozen clips from television news anchors across the country talking about spooky season on Thursday, October 1, as part of Olivers And Now This segment. Well guys, now that its officially October, we have spooky season right around the corner, a Wisconsin morning anchor said. I watched Hocus Pocus last night. I am all in, her co-anchor responded. Its officially spooky season, so why not go to hell Hell, Michigan, another anchor said in a different clip, showing the real town of Hell, Mich. The segment can be seen at the 6:46 mark here: Jupiter, a New Orleans native, joined CNYCentral in 2019, succeeding Jeremy Miller as the morning anchor alongside Lisa Spitz and meteorologist Peter Hall. Jupiter previously worked at TV stations like WXIX in Cincinnati; WDBJ in Roanoke, Virginia; and WCAV in Charlottesville, Virginia. Oliver, a former correspondent for Comedy Centrals The Daily Show, has hosted Last Week Tonight on HBO since 2014. His main story Sunday night focused on the upcoming election, mail-in ballots and allegations of voter fraud. Slack experienced an outage Monday morning into the afternoon hours, leaving thousands of users unable to send or receive messages. The firm addressed the problems shortly after reports began surfacing in the morning and shared that there are signs of improvements, but some users may still be experiencing issues. Down Detector showed the outage, which began around 9:30am ET, was mainly in the US, with parts of Europe also being affected. Slack has become vital for companies during the coronavirus pandemic as a way to conduct business with employees still working from home. Slack experienced an outage Monday morning into the afternoon hours, leaving thousands of users unable to send or receive messages. Down Detector showed the outage, which began around 9:30am ET, was mainly in the US, with parts of Europe also being affected Not only are people struggling as it is Monday morning, but the popular messaging services was making it difficult for thousands to communicate with employers and employees. Down Detector, a website that monitors online outages, showed an uptick in outage reports regarding Slack around 9:30am ET. Slack addressed the issues at 10:05am ET on its website stating:'Some users may be experiencing slowness with Slack in the desktop, browser and mobile at this time. The issue is impacting sending messages and troubles with API calls,' the firm shared in a statement. However, around 1:41pm ET, the firm said it was seeing signs of improvement, but some customers may still be experiencing issues. Down Detector shows that much of the issues involved with connecting to the services, followed by sending messages and a small group of users are having problems with the mobile app Many users flocked to Twitter to share their frustrations of Slack not working and 'Slack,' which is currently trending in the US, has more than 10,000 tweets Many users flocked to Twitter to share their frustrations of Slack not working and 'Slack,' which is currently trending in the US, has more than 10,000 tweets. Twitter users 'Emad' shared that Slack being down 'is the Schools closed day for adults.' Another users was frustrated that they got out of bed this Monday, just to find Slack is not working and they are unable to do their job properly. Many users have flocked to Twitter to share their frustrations of Slack not working and 'Slack,' which is currently trending in the US, has more than 10,000 tweets Many Americans are using Slack to work remotely Slack's website notes messaging, link previews, posts/files, login, search, connections and apps are all affected by the outage. Many people are frustrated about the outage, while some are making jokes about it on Twitter Not only are people struggling as it is Monday morning, but the popular messaging services is making it difficult for thousands to communicate with employers and employees Down Detector shows that much of the issue is connecting to the services, followed by sending messages and a small group of users are having problems with the mobile app. Slack's website notes messaging, link previews, posts/files, login, search, connections and apps are all affected by the outage. The US appears to be feeling the brunt of the outage, with major cities including Seattle, San Francisco, Chicago and New York City all shown in red on Down Detector's outage map. However, parts of Europe area also experiencing issues - London is shown in red on the map. MILWAUKEE, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Northwestern Mutual Chairman, President and CEO John Schlifske today announced senior leadership changes to support the company's strategy and ensure growth and development opportunities for leaders. Ron Joelson Jeff Lueken Dan Julka David Simbro Kamilah Williams-Kemp Deborah Schultz "Our leaders are critical to driving our company's success and today, I'm pleased to announce we are promoting six individuals into broader executive roles," stated Schlifske. "These promotions reflect the strength of our leadership across the company, underscore our commitment to developing talent, and ensure we have the depth of leadership to continue transforming our business to provide more people financial security." The following leadership changes were recently approved by the Northwestern Mutual Board of Trustees: Ron Joelson, chief investment officer since 2012, will take on the newly created role of president Northwestern Mutual Investment Management Company. This role positions him to meaningfully engage the company's clients and advisors on key topics, including the unsurpassed strength of the company and its unrivaled, integrated financial planning approach. He will continue to report to Schlifske. Jeff Lueken, who joined the company in 1988, will be promoted to succeed Joelson as chief investment officer, leading the teams responsible for managing the company's $290 billion general account portfolio. Lueken has held several roles in the company's investment area, most recently as the leader of Northwestern Mutual Capital, the private securities team that invests in private bonds and private equities that generate attractive returns for the portfolio. Dan Julka succeeds Lueken as the leader of Northwestern Mutual Capital, which manages $60 billion in private securities. A member of the investment team since joining the company in 2005, Julka most recently led a team involved in originating, structuring and managing private debt and equity transactions. David Simbro becomes vice president-risk products conviction, leveraging his long-tenured leadership of risk products, deep industry perspective, and expert knowledge to advance advisor, client, and employee education on the unique role the company's insurance products play in its integrated financial planning approach. He has been with the company since 1983, holding various positions of increasing responsibility, most recently as head of risk products. Kamilah Williams-Kemp will be promoted to head of risk products, leading product lines for life insurance, disability income insurance, long-term care insurance, and annuities. She joined the company in 1999 and previously led the company's underwriting department. Prior to that, she was responsible for both disability income insurance and long-term care insurance. Williams-Kemp will be the first woman and African-American at Northwestern Mutual to assume leadership of all risk product lines and annuities. Deborah Schultz will assume leadership of the company's underwriting department succeeding Williams-Kemp. An actuary by training, she joined the company in 2005 and previously led the financial management department, responsible for budget and expense management, vendor management, insurable risk management and treasury. These changes are effective on January 1, 2021. About Northwestern Mutual Northwestern Mutual has been helping people and businesses achieve financial security for more than 160 years. Through a holistic planning approach, Northwestern Mutual combines the expertise of its financial professionals with a personalized digital experience and industry-leading products to help its clients plan for what's most important. With $290.3 billion in total assets, $29.9 billion in revenues, and $1.9 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than 4.6 million people with life, disability income and long-term care insurance, annuities, and brokerage and advisory services. The company manages more than $161 billion of investments owned by its clients and held or managed through its wealth management and investment services businesses. Northwestern Mutual ranks 102 on the 2020 FORTUNE 500 and is recognized by FORTUNE as one of the "World's Most Admired" life insurance companies in 2020. Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), Milwaukee, WI (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with long-term care benefits) and its subsidiaries. Subsidiaries include Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC; the Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company (NMWMC) (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services), federal savings bank; and Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company (NLTC) (long-term care insurance). SOURCE Northwestern Mutual Related Links https://www.northwesternmutual.com A totl of 65 per cent of Americans said the president could have avoided being infected with coronavirus if he had taken the pandemic more seriously, a new poll has found. This includes nine in 10 registered Democrats and five in 10 registered Republicans agreeing that Donald Trump probably would not have been infected if he had stuck to anti-viral regulations more closely. According to the poll by Reuters and Ipsos, more than half (57 per cent) of Americans said they disapproved of Mr Trumps response to the Covid-19 pandemic overall, up about three points from a poll that ran late last week. Majority of Americans (67 per cent) were also in favour of stopping in-person campaigning to ensure everyone is kept safe, and 59 per cent think the presidential debates should be postponed until the president recovers from coronavirus. The poll also showed Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden has opened his widest lead in a month in the presidential race, gaining a 10-point edge over Mr Trump. Among adults who are expected to cast their ballots in the election on 3 November, the poll found that 51 per cent backed Mr Biden, while 41 per cent said they were voting for Mr Trump. Four per cent said they were choosing a third party candidate, while another four per cent said they were undecided. With just shy of a month to go before the election, Mr Biden must prevail in enough states to win the Electoral College, but state polls show that Mr Trump is nearly as popular as his opponent in battleground states. It is still unclear how the presidents fight against coronavirus will impact the next presidential debate, which is scheduled for 15 October. The first vice presidential debate between Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Mike Pence is set to go ahead on Thursday. Tennessee parents and a grandfather who were arrested over the summer after a toddler was discovered caged inside their filthy trailer housing 600 animals and crawling with vermin told investigators that the kennel was the safest place for him, given the deplorable state of the property. T.J. Brown, 46, Heather Scarbrough, 42, and 82-year-old Charles Brown, were taken into custody in late June in Henry County on counts of aggravated child abuse, aggravated animal cruelty, possession of firearm in commission of a felony, manufacturing of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and cruelty to animals. All three suspects appeared in court for a preliminary hearing last week, during which investigators and first respondents testified about the vile conditions inside Brown's mobile home, which he shared with his son, TJ, the man's girlfriend and their 18-month-year-old child, along with dogs, snakes, rates and hamsters. Scroll down for video Heather Scarbrough, 42 (left), TJ Brown, 46 (center), and Charles Brown, 82 (right), appeared in Tennessee court last week for a preliminary hearing related to the discovery of a toddler in a cage inside their trailer in June TJ Brown and Heather Scarbrough's 18-month-old son was found inside a 4X4 metal kennel with urine-soaked clothes and a few toys The trailer was said to be reeking of ammonia, with feces and urine coating the floor and dozens of cockroaches crawling inside the 4x4 metal cage where Scarbrough and TJ Brown's son was found confined. The boy had only a few toys and did not even have a blanket. Next to the cage were three buckets of mice, and just three feet away was a 10ft boa constrictor. Eight snakes were found inside the room in total, as well as more than a dozen dogs running loose on the property. Henry County Sheriff Monte Belew in June described some parts of the home as not having any flooring at all. The sheriff said that the kitchen was 'unlivable'. Maggots and cockroaches were all over the house, including inside the boy's kennel. Charles Brown's property was teeming with some 600 animals, including cockroaches, rats, hamsters and snakes, among them a 10-foot boa constrictor Nearly 60 dogs were removed from the filthy Henry County property by animal rescue officials in June During Thursday's hearing, the defense tried to downplay the defendants' use of the cage to corral the toddler, arguing that it was a makeshift playpen for a low-income family, reported WKRN. Lawyers also noted that the boy was only diagnosed with a rash, but a Department for Child Services testified that a hair follicle test on the victim detected THC, which is present in cannabis. A firearm possession charge has been dismissed against Scarbrough. 'With all of the law enforcement experience up here, it's hard to find something that actually shocks us,' Sheriff Belew told reporters in June. 'I've never seen this before, and I can guarantee the gentlemen up here with me have never seen this before.' An investigators told the court that all three defendants said that the cage was the safest place inside the mobile home for the toddler Animal Rescue Corps assisted with the animal removal, with some being found dead. The animals found at the mobile home included: 86 chickens and roosters, 56 dogs, 10 rabbits, 4 parakeets, 3 cats, 8 snakes, one pheasant, 531 rodents, one gecko and three sugar gliders. Also recovered from the home was 127 marijuana plants and 17 guns, including an AR-15. By Express News Service THRISSUR: In a gruesome incident, a CPM activist was stabbed to death by a group of men allegedly belonging to the BJP-Bajrang Dal In Thrissur. The victim is identified as CPM Puthusserry branch secretary PU Sanoop, 26. Three CPM workers Vipin, Jithu, and Abijith were grievously injured in the attack and the condition of one of them is said to be critical. The attack took place on Sunday night at Eayal near Kunnamkulam. The attack is reckoned as a sequel to the prevailing tension between the two sides for some time in Thrissur district. The victim and team were waylaid by the opposite gang when they reached the vicinity to take one of their friends identified as Mithun to his home. Though the victim was rushed to the nearest private hospital and subsequently to Thrissur medical college hospital, his life could not be saved. The Erumapetty Police which reached the spot took the vehicle used by the accused to flee from the spot into custody from Kunnamkulam. Sanoop was the son of late Peralil Unni and late Sathi at Puthusherry colony in Kunnamkulam. Condemning the brutal murder, CPM state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said the attack was planned by a person who recently switched his loyalty to BJP from Congress and executed the murder with the help of Sangh Parivar forces. Sanoop was an orphan as he had no siblings and his parents had died earlier, he said. Sanoop is the fourth CPM cadre to be eliminated by political opponents in recent days. Earlier, two workers of DYFI were killed at Venjaramoodu, in Thiruvananthapuram district on the eve of Onam, with CPM alleging a conspiracy of top Congress leaders behind the murders. Balakrishnan asked the RSS, BJP and Congress workers to stop indulging in violence. DYFI, the youth brigade of the CPM, has decided to observe Monday as black day in protest against the murder. All DYFI units across the state will hold protest programmes adhering to the COVID protocol. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to come face to face, virtually, during the 12th summit of the Brics grouping to be held on November 17 via video conference. This will be the first virtual multilateral meeting to be joined by the two leaders since the border standoff in Ladakh became public in May. Indias foreign ministers and defence ministers have participated in other meetings that featuring their Chinese counterparts in recent weeks. The Brics Summit will focus on further strengthening cooperation among the member states -- Brazil Russia, India, China and South Africa -- amid the Covid-19 crisis, according to a formal announcement on Monday from Russia, the current chair of the grouping. The theme for the meeting will be Brics partnership for global stability, shared security and innovative growth. In May, Russia postponed that the Brics Summit, which was to have been held in St Petersburg along with a meeting of the heads of state council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during July 21-23, due to the spread of the coronavirus disease. Also Read | Chinas PLA complicates troop disengagement over Ladakh. It has a condition Russia was keen on hosting the leaders of the five Brics countries but several members expressed apprehensions about the holding of an actual summit in view of the risk of infections, people familiar with developments said on condition of anonymity. Despite the current global situation due to the spread of the coronavirus infection, the activities under the Russian Brics chairmanship in 2020 are carried out in a consistent manner, said Anton Kobyakov, adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin and executive secretary of the organising committee, to prepare and support Russias SCO presidency in 2019-20 and Brics chairmanship in 2020. Since January 2020, more than 60 events have been organised, including via videoconferencing. The Brics Summit will be the jewel-in-the-crown event of the Russian Brics chairmanship, which will provide impetus for further strengthening cooperation together with our partners to ensure well-being of Brics countries, he said. Russia has focused on multifaceted cooperation between the Brics countries in order to contribute to raising living standards and quality of life, the official statement said. During 2020, the five countries in the grouping continued their close strategic partnership on three major pillars, peace and security, economy and finance, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, it added. Russia has also helped facilitate meetings between the Indian and Chinese sides, such as the meetings of the foreign and defence ministers on the sidelines of SCO meetings in Moscow last month. Also Read | Modern PLA barracks, heavy artillery at LAC: China media The meeting between external affairs minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Moscow led to a five-point road map for taking forward disengagement and de-escalation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Former ambassador Vishnu Prakash said the presence of the Indian and Chinese leaders at the virtual summit would be more about keeping the show going and ticking the box. The summit will be more of symbolism than substance. A virtual Brics summit will have the limited purpose of the leaders making statements and going through the motions. During summits held in person, the actual business happens on the margins. With a virtual summit, there will be no business on the sidelines. With so much of tension in India-China relations, the possibility that the Brics summit will produce anything meaningful I dont see that happening, he said A meeting of the Brics foreign ministers last month expressed concern at violence and conflicts in different parts of the world and said such situations should be resolved peacefully through political dialogue. The joint statement issued after the virtual meeting of the foreign ministers didnt refer to any particular conflict, and the grouping has a convention of not taking up bilateral issues between its members. Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} "As of today, the (county) Board has chosen NOT to hire a replacement (for director Cardwell),'' the letter to the state board said. "In fact, it was their decision to have the Senior Deputy Director do the job without a promotion or hire an additional third staff member during the election period.'' The candidates told the NCBOE that they have lost faith in their board. " ... It is unclear as to whether or not the (county) Board acted within their legal authority to do so,'' candidates wrote of the vote to dismiss Simpson. "... recent decisions made by the Board have left Rockingham County inexperienced and unprepared to deliver election results that can be trusted,'' the letter said. State Board of Elections officials did not respond to requests for comment. And board members Toni Reece, Jeff Parris and Bonnie Purgason, all of Eden, and Leanna Lawson of Ruffin all of whom voted to dismiss Simpson did not respond to requests for comment. White said Monday night that the candidates had not yet heard from NCBOE officials about whether they will take over the local elections board. Brian Kelly Watertown Daily Times, N.Y. (TNS) Moira, N.Y. Federal court documents filed following the arrest of a Plattsburgh man for his alleged role in the armed kidnapping of an Upstate New York couple reveal that the couple were held hostage in exchange for either 50 kilograms of cocaine or $3.5 million. According to a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court, Plattsburgh, in the case of Graigory Brown, 50, the alleged kidnappers believed an unidentified child of James Helm Sr., 76, and Sandra Helm, 70, had knowledge of the cocaines location and were holding the couple until the child either aided in the return of the drugs, paid the cash ransom or gave the kidnappers information about others with alleged knowledge of the cocaine. In actuality, unbeknownst to the alleged kidnappers, the cocaine had already been seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Mr. Brown, of Plattsburgh, was charged Thursday with conspiracy to commit kidnapping, along with four others who were arrested in Quebec, where Jim and Sandy Helm were located Tuesday. According to the complaint, on Sunday Mr. Brown and his coconspirators forcibly entered the Helms' Franklin County home and kidnapped them. The victims were driven to Snye, Quebec, where they were put in a boat, taken to mainland Canada and then taken to Quebecs eastern townships, where they were held for several days. While the victims were in Canada, Mr. Browns coconspirators communicated ransom demands to one of the victims' children. Officers from the Surete du Quebec rescued the victims from a house in Magog, Quebec, on Tuesday. The complaint states that about 6:20 a.m., state police were called to the Helms' residence for a report of burglary and to check on the couples welfare. Troopers interviewed the Helms' child, who said his father, the town of Moiras highway superintendent, had not arrived at work that morning, which was unusual. The house was also in a state of disarray. An emergency geolocation of Mr. Helms cell phone showed it was near the intersection of Routes 37 and 95 in the town of Bombay at 10:54 Sunday and then was about 23 miles north of a cell phone tower in North Bangor at 1:03 a.m., which would have put the phones location in Snye, Quebec, on the Canadian side of the Akwesasne Mohawk Reservation. Federal agents again tried to ping Mr. Helmss phone, but could not because it was located outside the United States. At about 9:30 a.m. Monday, the Helms' child received a call from one of the alleged coconspirators who stated that he had the Helms and that an unidentified person owes them, or in the alternative they wanted the unidentified person. The co-conspirator said he didnt want the Helms, but they wanted the unidentified person because the person has our stuff. At about 12:11 p.m. Monday, the co-conspirator called again and told the child that the parents were well. He told the child to bring him either the unidentified person or a second unidentified person and its done tonight. Subsequent calls from the co-conspirator delivered similar messages, according to the complaint. Federal agents were able to receive a proof of life photo of the Helms showing them seated in a chair with trees in the background. At 8:43 p.m. Monday, the child receive a text message stating, Parents are sleeping. 12PM tomorrow for trade for (the first unidentified person). Agents were able to track the phone that sent the text message to a residence in Snye. On Tuesday, Canadian law enforcement surrounded the house and a second alleged co-conspirator came out of the house with a phone in his hand, which he then threw in the bushes. Im just the messenger. I know the elderly couple is in Montreal, he allegedly said, according to the complaint. Law enforcement was able to identify two additional phone numbers allegedly involved in the kidnapping and, through emergency geolocation, were able to determine that the phones were together at a residence in the eastern townships of Quebec. Surete du Quebec officers were then able to observe the same type of chair at the residence that was seen in the proof of life photograph and there were trees nearby, consistent with the trees in the photo. Officers entered the residence and arrested three additional co-conspirators. Mrs. Helm told agents that four people had abducted her and Mr. Helm from their home on Sunday. Two people had forcibly entered the home, while two others remained in a vehicle outside. At some point, hoods or pillowcases were placed over the Helms' head and they were taken by vehicle to the St. Lawrence River. They were then put on a boat and taken to the residence from which they were rescued. During the course of witness interviews Monday, agents learned that Mr. Brown had allegedly said he knew where the Helms were. The next day, under exigent circumstances, the FBI was able to obtain a call record for Mr. Browns phone for the previous seven days and determined that his phone had been in the same areas as Mr. Helms. Law enforcement located Mr. Brown Tuesday in Fort Covington, but he successfully evaded law enforcement surveillance. Officers were able to find his cell phone on the shoulder of Foy Elder Road in Fort Covington. While a state trooper was interviewing a second witness, the witness said Mr. Brown had left his pickup truck parked in the witnesss yard. According to the complaint, the pickup truck was similar to one that was captured on a video near the Helms' residence the night they were abducted. Also, a screwdriver was found in the truck that appears consistent with the item used to gain access to the victims' home, the complaint states. On Thursday, Mr. Brown was taken into custody and allegedly told police he and his co-conspirators had originally planned to kidnap the first unidentified person, but determined they could not successfully do so. Mr. Brown allegedly told his co-conspirators that he knew where the Helms lived and that he drove himself and three others to their residence whereupon they kidnapped the victims. He stated the group was armed with two firearms during the kidnapping. Mr. Brown was arraigned Friday in federal court and ordered held pending a detention hearing Tuesday. The charge against him carries a maximum sentence of life in prison. The four coconspirators arrested Wednesday appeared in provincial court in Quebec on Thursday, and were held over for a bail hearing on Tuesday. The four were identified by the provincial prosecutors office as Franco DOnofrio, 55, and George Dritsas, 75, of Magog; Kosnas Dritsas, 49, of Ville Mont-Royal; and Taylor Lawrence Martin, 36, of Akwesasne. The four each face charges of kidnapping, forcible confinement, extortion and conspiracy. A fifth person arrested with them, who has not been publicly identified, was released. A sixth person, a 54-year-old man from Hinchinbrooke, was arrested by a Surete du Quebec SWAT team as he drove along chemin des Outardes in Hinchinbrooke late Thursday night, Stefane Trembley of the SQ said Friday. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. New Delhi, Oct 5 : After Delhi High Court began the day-to-day proceedings in the 2G spectrum case on Monday, one of the accused, Asif Balwa, who was acquitted by the trial court, questioned the appearance of Addditional Solicitor General (ASG) Sanjay Jain on behalf of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Balwa filed an application seeking a copy of the direction by the Central government given under Section 378 (2) of the CrPC. Balwa in his plea moved through advocate Vijay Aggarwal sought a copy of the government's sanction letter, which granted approval to the CBI to file an appeal against the acquittal of all the accused in the 2G spectrum case. The arguments on the same were addressed by Aggarwal before a single judge bench of the high court comprising Justice Brijesh Sethi, who last week ordered day-to-day proceeding in the matter. Aggarwal pointed out that the appeal has been filed under the signature of advocate Sanjeev Bhandari under the stamp of special public prosecutor. However, in the 2G case, the special public prosecutor is appointed by way of a specific notification. Aggarwal apprised the bench that earlier a notification was issued for the trial, which was superseded and a fresh notification was issued in February 2018 by which Solicitor General Tushar Mehta was to act as the special public prosecutor in this case. It was further argued that keeping in view the same notification, the appeal filed by the CBI was without any authority and that the CBI ought to clarify the same before the court. Aggarwal also argued that the entire appeal will fail in the absence of the said mandatory approval under Section 378 (2) of CrPC. Opposing Aggarwal's submissions, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Sanjay Jain, who is representing the CBI, argued that the particular aspect regarding authority is merely in the nature of housekeeping and the same can be produced before the court in a 'sealed cover' if so required. Aggarwal strongly opposed the submissions regarding the 'sealed cover' and said that the said issue of authority goes to the root of the said matter and is a jurisdictional issue. "When a law or statue requires a thing to be done in a particular manner, it should be done in that manner only," said Aggarwal. His arguments were also supported by senior advocates appearing for other parties, Siddharth Luthra and N. Hariharan. ASG Jain sought time till Tuesday to seek instructions on the issue of sanction. The court will now be taking up the tomorrow. Meanwhile, the court also allowed accused Sanjay Chandra to hold a legal meeting with the lawyers to prepare for the on-going hearing, for which it directed the superintendent of Tihar Jail to arrange for an hour long video conference between Chandra and his lawyers three times in a week. Last week, the high court had directed that it will hear on day-to-day basis the appeals filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the CBI against the acquittal of the accused persons in the 2G case. The scam came to light almost seven years ago when the Comptroller and Auditor General in a report held then Telecom Minister A. Raja responsible for causing the state exchequer a loss of Rs 1,76,379 crore by allocating 2G spectrum licences at throwaway prices. However, the trial court found that the prosecution failed to prove the charges. The verdict, however, doesn't override the Supreme Court judgement or take away from the fact that the licences issued during 2G spectrum allocation were illegal. Libya continues to ramp up crude oil production with the daily total now getting closer to 300,000 bpd and exports on the rise, too. By the end of last week, production had risen from below 100,000 bpd to 270,000 bpd, exceeding the countrys National Oil Corporations expectations and now, according to Bloomberg, it has hit 295,000 bpd. Sources in the know who spoke to the news agency say the ramp-up is set to continue. Exports, as a result, are also on the rise at the three terminals that eastern-affiliated forced allowed to reopen last month. The Brega terminal is likely to see some 1.8 million barrels exported this month, divided into three cargos, while the Hariga terminal has already loaded two cargos of one million barrels each, Bloomberg reported, citing a cargo loading program. The third free terminal, Zueitina, is scheduled to export five cargoes of crude this month. The head of the Libyan National Army, General Khalifa Haftar, whose troops, with help from affiliated groups, had blockaded Libyas oil ports in January, announced the end of the blockade on September 18. A week later, the National Oil Corporation lifted the force majeure on the Zueitina port after seeing significant improvement in the security situation that allows the NOC to resume production and exports to global markets. The effect of this renewed production growth in Libya, however, has been devastating for oil prices. The North African producer has been exempted from OPEC+ production cuts because of its security situation and now it can pump at will to recover vital oil revenues. As a result of the latest string of news coming from Libya, however, Brent last week fell below $40 for the first time in weeks, with WTI dropping closer to $37. This week, both benchmarks started trade with strong gains, with Brent returning above $40 a barrel. Its an open question how long it would stay there given the latest from Libya. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: In an interview with Russian TV, Assad has said that Russias military plays an important role in the country and keeping a balance regionally writes Al-Masdar. President Bashar al-Assad, sat down for an interview with the Russian Zevzda TV channel on Friday to discuss a number of topics, including the Russian militarys presence in Syria. During the interview, the Syrian president stressed the importance of the Russian military bases in his country, pointing out that their importance lies in ensuring security and stability in Syria and combating global terrorism. In Syria today we are dealing with international terrorism and Russia is helping us to achieve security and stability, but after the elimination of terrorism there is another role that Russia will play at the international level by urging the international community and different countries to implement international law. He pointed out that, there is an imbalance between the powers in the current system of international relations, and Russia must restore this lost balance. The Syrian president noted that the Russian military presence plays a large and important role, not only in Syria, but in the whole world. The Russian presence is to ensure security and make the world order more just and balanced. Of course, if the West abandons its aggressive policy of using its military power to create problems in the world, Russia may not need such a policy, but the world today needs to balance, the Syrian President said. September marked the fifth anniversary of Russias militarys intervention in the Syrian conflict. Since their entry into the war, the Russian military has helped the Syrian Arab Army defeat the Islamic State and retake several parts of the country. This article was 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. Central High School Social Studies teacher Thomas Quinn (second from left) with some of his students during a voter registration drive at the ShopRite of Parkside on Saturday, September 26, 2020. Quinn is an organizer with Philly Youth Vote!, an effort to register every eligible high school senior in the city. Read more The Oct. 19 deadline for voter registration is looming large. So little time, so much at stake. Tom Quinn, a longtime Central High School social studies teacher, knows that getting voting-eligible students registered will go right down to the wire. Hes up for the challenge, because he and other Philly educators have been helping teens register themselves and their peers for years. This year was to be no different. But then COVID-19 hit, sending students home and throwing a curveball at their voter-registration process. Last spring, we teachers and organizers had to regain our footing like everyone else," said Quinn. "It was a setback for voter registration the numbers were down everywhere but were hoping to catch back up. Theres a ton of energy and excitement about the election. Quinn, 51, grew up in Lancaster and voted for the first time in 1988 as a Temple freshman. He sees teaching and enabling kids to vote as part of his job. At his first school in San Francisco, over 20 years ago, he sponsored a Youth Vote club. He continued the effort when he arrived at Central in 2008. But in 2016, Quinn and colleagues with the Caucus of Working Educators realized that more could be accomplished if teachers' student-registration efforts were more organized and systematic. That led to Philly Youth Vote!, a group connecting voter-registration activists and teachers with each other and with resources to get students on the voting rolls. Last year, several Philadelphia high schools won the Governors Civic Engagement Award, thanks to their high voter-registration rates. But this is a year like no other, said Quinn. In addition to a highly contentious presidential race, there is urgency around big issues like police reform, gun violence, climate change, and more. Philly kids, working with the advocacy groups, have been hitting the pavement to turn their peers and elders into voters. Some are registering voters via tablet. Students have also turned out a spirited body of material on YouTube, TikToK, and Instagram to inspire registration and voting. To Quinn, making sure kids master the skills needed to be active citizens is an important part of being a teacher, especially one who teaches civics. If were not teaching kids how to register to vote, were disenfranchising them, he said. Thats almost as bad as voter suppression. Not having students physically in school because of COVID-19 has made organizing them more difficult than usual. But on Oct. 2, the school district convened its first district-wide voter registration assembly, held online, which allowed students to register electronically. Quinn wasnt the only person who lobbied for the program, but he has been a leader in the push for the district to adopt formal policies to support student voter registration. His dedication to his students and to making sure they are represented in government is remarkable," said Lauren Cristella, chief advancement officer for Committee of Seventy, a nonpartisan advocate for better government. He goes beyond simply encouraging them to register. He writes lesson plans, encourages active, informed citizenship, and helps students understand their impact on democracy. The effort to get young people and other first-time voters registered has taken a lot of work by many groups and individuals. No one could have done it alone, but those who have joined forces with Quinn say his contributions have been a cut above. If Tom wasnt there, where would we be? said Andy Toy, spokesman for SEAMAAC, a long-standing advocacy group for immigrant and refugee communities and active in registering youth. We wouldnt be in that many schools. There would be a lot of students missing from the equation. He has definitely moved the ball more than anyone I can think of in the school district. Author and Penn professor Lorene Cary has collaborated with Quinn in her role as director of Vote that Jawn, an organization aimed at getting youth registered and involved. Quinn turns out voting evangelists students Ive been happy to meet on the 18-year-old seam into adult civic life because they seek nonpartisan engagement, Cary said. Just as a great writing teacher or art teacher inspires students to produce poems and paintings, Tom inspires his students to step into the responsibility and power of our civic life. Sheyla Street is one of those students. The 17-year-old Central senior is the tireless captain of the schools student-registration team, even though she wont be old enough to vote in this election. I need people to vote because my generation is the one most impacted by all the crazy decisions that people who become elected are going to make, she said. Street grew up in a voting family; her grandfather is former Mayor John F. Street. But getting out in communities she registers older folks as well as peers has taught her the importance of talking with people and listening. Mr. Quinn is super selfless," she said. He always makes sure that youth are involved in anything he does because hes about getting youth engaged, not just about registering and getting them to vote. Quinn sees his role as organizer and collaborator, helping an A-team of activists connect with each other and disseminating information in his weekly email blasts. Angie Hinton, an organizer with My School Votes, a program to empower students and educators to get registered and ready to vote, jokingly calls Quinn #informationstation because hes such a font of it. And while COVID-19 has made the mission more challenging, Hinton believes it has led to something beautiful that might not have happened if students were physically in school. "We are out registering people in the communities. Kids are able to have these persuasive conversations with adults who were completely turned off to voting, Hinton said. And what she has witnessed in the Philly kids shes working has given her hope. For me as a Black person, this has been a super sad time, but this is something that has really kept me going and inspired me to know were going to be OK, Hinton said. The kids are going to make sure were all OK. But their elders still need to make sure that they, too, get the tools they need to vote, said Quinn. I believe in democracy fundamentally, he said. If groups of people are able to vote, government will be responsive to them. That goes for young people, people of color, low-income people, immigrants. For things to change in Philadelphia, we need to increase voter turnout across the board. As a teacher," he said, Im starting with the young people. Thats where the potential is. 05.10.2020 LISTEN I chose this title for this writeup because we will be talking about wars that happened because of traitors. My first will be the Keta war or the Gunpowder war. I am not sure about the year but some historians place it between 1844 to 1847. During this period slave trade was winding up. The Danes were in charge of trade and their fort was situated in Keta. By this time the Danes had surveyed the territory to as far as Kpando and Hohoe areas, but aside trade relations there was no such thing as colonization taking place. The Keta and Aloga people are one people. And the Danes knew this. They had noticed the unity amongst them and how difficult it was to divide and rule them as a colony. So the Danes called the Keta elders in whose territory the fort was built and tried to pit them against the Aloga people. So that once they fight and become divided the Al people will become easier to rule. The Keta elders realized the trick of the whiteman whom they had already named Ayevu meaning a sly dog. Therefore they quickly sent notice to the people of Aloga to inform them about the ayevu's trick to divide them through war. The Keta and Aloga people trusted themselves so much that they decided to use gunpowder instead of real pellets that can cause havoc. On the day of warfare the two sides came with gunpowder, shot shot and caused explosions with the gunpowder to sound so loud that the Danes in the fort could hear them fight. The Danes were happy and thought they were achieving their goal but at the end of the day not a single person died. The Keta people went to inform the Danes about the war and told them how the Anloga people were so fortified that they could not be killed. The Danes were disappointed and promised to provide them with heavier guns the next time. However just when the Keta elders left. A man went back to tell the Danes about the whole trick and how gunpowder was used to fake explosions to make a fool of them. The Danes made a deal with this Keta man and told him if truly he meant what he is saying another war would be arranged and this time they would need him to kill just one Alga person. Another war was arranged between Keta and Anloga, again the Danes provided the Keta people with more guns and then they set off to do their gunpowder trick but this one man will kill and start what became a real war that will drive the people of Keta away into a place now called Agbozume. Since this war took place the area became so unfriendly to inhabit that even the Danes were never able to have peaceful trade with the people of Al again and this was one of the reasons why the Danes sold the fort Prinzenstein at Keta to the British in 1850 and left. They never had control of the territory so the selling of the fort cannot be translated into the selling of the territory in 1850. At this time also there was no signing of any bond or treaty by anybody in Al, be it Bond of 1844 or whatever to make Al a British colony in 1850. M.A.Y Kulewosi A new study published on the preprint server medRxiv* in September 2020 reports constructing disposable masks using simple paper folding or origami steps, from filter material. This could make mask-wearing more acceptable and their construction less cumbersome. The Importance of Respiratory Transmission Most respiratory diseases are transmitted via pathogens contained within droplets and aerosols, emitted during ordinary breathing, talking, sneezing, and coughing. A surgical mask creates a barrier to such pathogens to prevent new infections. In the current COVID-19 pandemic, the lack of effective antivirals or vaccines has made it essential to use such non-pharmaceutical interventions to reduce respiratory spread, including social distancing and the use of face coverings by all individuals when in a public space. In some places, mask production and distribution have been severely tested, forcing those in the frontline to make their own. Both the public and essential workers in poorer countries use improvised cloth masks even though their effectiveness is inadequately studied. Surgical masks decrease the odds of droplet spread from the wearer to others, and also partially prevent transmissions from sprayed or splashed body fluids. However, their filtration and the facial fit is insufficient to offer respiratory protection. Even so, surgical masks have been demonstrated to reduce infection odds in healthcare workers, though in small studies. Sew-free origami mask raw materials and tools for fabrication (A-D), and illustration of a fabricated mask (E). The raw materials needed to fabricate a mask include: (A) two elastic straps; (B) square piece(s) of filter material(s), which can include multiple plies;(C) nose clip material (twist tie, paper clip, or other malleable material); and (D) a stapler and staples used to securely join the mask. (E) After fabrication the mask is worn over the nose and mouth and secured to the face with the elastic strap. Issues with Currently Available Masks High-quality masks like the well-known N95 respirators protect the user by fitting the facial contours well, keeping out droplets and aerosol particles. They are better at preventing air leakage during a cough or sneeze compared to surgical masks. However, some authorities continue to recommend that these be used only by healthcare workers and those in close contact with known or suspected patients. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that all medical personnel use medical-grade masks, and N95 respirators or their equivalent be used when performing any procedure likely to generate an aerosol in suspected patients. Steps A-C of the origami fabrication process. (A) Fold along horizontal axis. (B) Inside-reverse fold each bottom corner leaving an approximate 2.5 cm margin at the top. After the operation you should have a boat shape with two tabs. (C) Rotate piece 180 degrees so you have a hat shape. Fold the top tab up. Tuck the bottom tab into the hat shape over the reverse folded corners from Step B. Next, staple the folded bottom tab to the reverse folded corners. On the other hand, the growing evidence that asymptomatic and presymptomatic transmission make up a large percentage of all respiratory spread, it is highly desirable that all individuals wear masks designed to offer filtration and fit characteristics comparable to that of respirators. These are dependent mainly on the filtration material used and the design. Filter fabrics have ranged from cotton, silk, chiffon, and surgical drape fabrics. However, the fit is another primary consideration, since even the best material can fail to shield if the mask leaves gaps between itself and the face. In fact, studies show that filtration efficiency can be less by up to 60% in such a situation. Secondly, materials that are excellent filters also make it harder to breathe, and the increased resistance to the flow of air through the mask makes it more likely that air will leak through the sides. Steps D-F of the origami fabrication process. (D) Fold the top tab into the hat shape making sure to fold over the lower tab so that the edges are aligned and the tabs are perpendicular to each other. They should overlap in a square. Starting with one corner, align one elastic strap with one of the folded tabs and staple through the mask layers and strap. Repeat for the second elastic strap making sure to align it with the other folded tab. Use two more staples to secure the straps. Repeat on the other corner, making sure to align each strap with the correct tab. (E) Turn the shape inside out. Carefully push the top of the hat shape through the folded tabs. (F) Install the nose clip. If using a coffee bag tin, remove the adhesive back, open the top tab and place the coffee bag tin sticky side down inside the crease. If using wire, you can secure the wire with a staple. Objectives for Improvised Mask Construction The current study aims to present a method of making an improvised mask suitable for protection against respiratory viruses and can be made without any particular expertise or supplies. The objectives were to produce an affordable mask, with minimal leakage around the edges, offering efficient filtration and easy breathing, thus providing much more comfort and promoting the use of masks by more people. It does not involve sewing, and little manual labor is required, thus making it possible to produce large numbers in a short period of time. The WHO recommends that the French Standardization Association (AFNOR Group) standard for non-medical masks be used for the public. This standard (S76-00137) takes into account the need for efficient filtration to at least 70%, but also breathability, with the maximum inhalation and exhalation resistance being 2.4 and 3 mbar, respectively. AFNOR recommends a 3-ply mask design. The innermost layer is absorbent, the middle is non-woven with high filtration efficiency, and the outermost is weatherproof. The shape is also important, with AFNOR recommending the duckbill shape that keeps leakage low. Design and Characteristics of a Good Mask The current study is based on these recommendations. It proposes a mask design that makes it safe for both frontline workers who have numerous contacts with the public but may not have access to high-quality masks and the general public. The former may include staff in nursing homes, education, childcare, hospitality industry, and public transport, as well as emergency responders and healthcare workers. The researchers looked at the filtration efficiencies of 18 kinds of materials, some of which are multilayered hybrid materials and the combined effect of filtration efficiency and fit on the total protection offered by the mask. The highest filtration efficiency was found to be at nearly 100% for a 2-layer furnace filter, and only 5% for NWPP, the material used in shopping bags. However, materials that have excellent filter characteristics also have higher pressure drops, which promotes higher leakage. The way out is to use those materials that are designed for filtration, such as furnace filters and Filti brand filter media. The researchers sum up their findings, Masks with higher upper bound filtration efficiencies often exhibited larger total efficiency ranges, implying that high-efficiency media typically possess high-pressure drops, which ultimately results in mask leakage. Finding the Right Fit The researchers tested 15 different mask designs, including those based on single- and double-ply and hybrid materials for fit testing. They also tested five mask designs, 1F, iH, H1, H2, H3, which meet AFNOR SPEC S76-001 standards for both filtration and pressure drop. Mask leakage was also determined on fit testing, which better simulates real-life situations rather than earlier studies where the media were tested rather than masks, and leakage was simulated by making tiny holes in the sample tube downstream of the filter medium. They found that surgical and KN95 reference masks showed excellent ideal filtrations efficiency of 95% and 93% filtration efficiency at 300 nm, respectively. Under nominal or unsealed conditions, however, their performance dropped drastically to 30%. For the latter type of mask, the ear loops are to blame, they suggest, since this reduces the fit. Using head straps will prevent leakage much better. Their tests showed that the 2-ply Filti masks (2F) performed very well, with a high filtration efficiency and a high-pressure drop but low leakage. Thus, our results reveal that filtration performance is dominated by mask fit and that reducing the pressure drop of the filter material attenuates leakage. They also tested the fit on a human being with the quantitative fit test OSHA Specification 1910 as the reference. The results suggest that under actual-use conditions, the origami mask is just as efficient at filtration than the ideal conditions under which it is tested on the mannequin. The widest gap in efficiencies derived from the OSHA fit test and the mannequin-based test were seen with the KN95 with ear loops and the surgical mask, and this was due to leakage. Implications The researchers conclude that this origami technique can be used to construct a range of masks with optimum filtration-pressure drop balance for best performance. By using the right filter media, they can offer better protection than the commercially available respirators, with high filtration efficiency, a lower pressure drop, and minimal leakage. The benefits of this origami fabrication procedure are its flexibility, allowing adaptation to multiple facial sizes, optimal choice of filter media for filtration efficiency vs. pressure drop, and allows for comfortable wearing with easy breathing. This could help encourage more people to accept universal mask usage. *Important Notice medRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. Tustin City Council Candidates Weigh in on Boosting Business, Public Safety As the Nov. 3 Tustin City Council election draws near, the nine candidates vying for three available seats are focusing largely on business development, public safety, and devising plans for an undeveloped parcel of land known as the Legacy. Growing Local Businesses AJ Jha, a business owner and city planning commissioner, is looking at how to close an estimated budget shortfall of $4 million to $5 million due to the loss in economic activity this year. City staff needs to cut red tape to help our local businesses bounce back, he told The Epoch Times. I am not willing to cut any public services or raise taxes to make up for any shortfall. Instead of land sales for a one-time benefit, I propose to move to more leasing situations, which will bring in consistent revenue to city reserves. James Perez, a real estate broker, told The Epoch Times: I have seen the same council run the city for two decades. While other cities thrive, I see Tustin remain stale with missed opportunities, not allowing new businesses in and not providing current businesses the real support they need. Tustin City Council candidate James Perez in Tustin, Calif. (Courtesy of James Perez) Perez, who wants to explore ways to attract new businesses in Tustin, is running along with Kurt Benworth, an entrepreneur who emphasizes his finance expertise and desire to increase city revenue. Together, Perez and Benworth call themselves Team Tustin. The number of businesses in Tustin has been decreasing every year for well over a decade and for too long we have had too many vacant lots and buildings, Benworth said on his website. Letitia Clark, a current city council member who is the only incumbent in the race, emphasized the trickle-down effect of creating jobs for local residents. Tustin City Council candidate Letitia Clark in Tustin, Calif. (Courtesy of Letitia Clark) The money made from businesses and individuals pours right back into the local economy when citizens spend it on housing and goods in Tustin, she said on her website. We also need to work on cultivating and developing partnerships with businesses that are a good fit for Tustin. Lee Fink, a businessman and consumer advocate, wants to help businesses acquire low-cost loans to assist with recovery costs. He calls for incentivizing innovation, creating workforce housings, and encouraging businesses to commit to hiring recent college graduates and other youth. Tustin City Council candidate Lee Fink in Tustin, Calif. (Courtesy of Lee Fink) Ensuring Public Safety Keeping neighborhoods safe is another primary concern for Fink. If elected, he plans to prioritize funding to maintain fast emergency response times and work with neighborhood groups to enhance crime reports. He also wants to see Tustin represented on the Orange County Street Racing Task Force, a county-wide effort currently in the preliminary stages. We need to address the dangerous street racing and street takeovers that are taking place throughout the city, Fink wrote on his site. Ensuring that Tustin has a spot on the county-wide task force is critical as these events and participants are tracked and arrested throughout the county, and their cars impounded. Ryan Gallagher, a member of the citys Planning Commission, shares Finks concerns. As a husband and father of two young boys, the increase in criminal activity and street racing in our city has been concerning, which is why public safety is one of my top priorities, he told The Epoch Times. I am proud to be endorsed by the Tustin Police and OC Sheriff Don Barnes. Tustin City Council candidate Ryan Gallagher in Tustin, Calif. (Courtesy of Ryan Gallagher) Tustin City Council candidate Cris Cusac in Tustin, Calif. (Courtesy of Cris Cusac) Businessman Cris Cusac praises the Tustin Police Department on his campaign website for doing a great job during COVID times and the recent unrest and protests that have swept the nation. Id like to help the TPD make moves to become the model in which all agencies look to emulate. Public safety is the number one issue for business owner and attorney Jorge Valdes. He told The Epoch Times that his plan for ensuring public safety depends on maintaining a good police presence and maintaining a good relationship with the police. Theres no question thats at the top of my list. And that is absolutely the overwhelming sentiment from my neighbors and people that I have spoken to. Tustin City Council candidate Jorge Valdes in Tustin, Calif. (Courtesy of Jorge Valdes) Developing The Legacy Another key concern for Valdes is the Tustin Legacy, a 1,600-acre piece of land that has been slowly developed over the years, with much still remaining open. Theres a lot of frustration in town, Valdes said. Its been empty land for basically 20 years. And theres comments being made to me like, Im going to pass away, and this is all [still] going to be empty land. Jokes, you know, half-hearted, but theres a lot of truth in jest. So I would say my second priority is moving the Legacy forward in a considered and proper way. According to him, part of the problem is that the city staff has taken a bottom-up approach to planning. I dont believe that city staff members have the skill set to develop a 21st century city, he said. I really think that the development of the Legacy needs to be placed into the hands of private people with the approval of the city council. And then we can have the planning staff sort of fill in the boxes. That would be my approach to developing the Legacy. Tustin City Council candidate AJ Jha stands amid the letters on a sign for a partially developed parcel of land known as the Tustin Legacy, in Tustin, Calif. (Courtesy of AJ Jha) Developing the area is a central issue on the radar for several candidates. Gallagher agrees that there should be a clear plan for the Tustin Legacy, especially since the citys general fund has been over budget since 2017, he said. The Tustin Legacy could be the economic engine that drives Tustin into the future, Gallagher told The Epoch Times. With 500-plus acres remaining, we have the opportunity to build something truly special. Next year will mark 20 years since we started developing the Tustin Legacy, and we cannot allow the next 20 years to be the same as the last. Our current path is unsustainable and our residents deserve better. While Perez would support revisiting the master plan in order to maximize the true monetary benefit of the land, Jha believes the area could best be utilized as an event or exhibition space supported by new hotels and restaurants to boost city tax revenue. Tustin has an enormous undertaking for the next several cycles of city council members [to] plan and develop the Tustin Legacy, Cusac wrote on his website, pledging to make sure any development will benefit the people of Tustin and not the interests of few. Enhancing Local Education While Clark acknowledges that city council members dont have authority over local school systems, she is interested in exploring ways to improve educational opportunities in Tustin. Investing in pre-school and after-school programs, school safety, and infrastructure improvements on school buildings are some of the areas on which she would focus her attention. We can lead by bringing our community together to enable teachers, parents and schools to focus on their highest goal, which is helping our children learn, Clark wrote on her campaign site. Tustin City Council candidate Beckie Gomez in Tustin, Calif. (Courtesy of Beckie Gomez) The ninth candidate, Beckie Gomez, a former two-term Tustin council member and member of the Orange County Board of Education, affirms her commitment to stand up for students, teachers, parents, and families. Gomez describes herself as fiscally conservative, an effective problem solver, and someone who will ensure the safety and well-being of Tustins families and residents. A Jacksonville man died Wednesday in a crash that left another man injured. A Morgan County sheriffs deputy saw a car traveling in excess of 90 mph on West Morton Avenue at 2:53 a.m. and tried to stop the car, but the car was so far ahead that the deputy could not catch up to it, Sheriff Mike Carmody said. About 15 minutes later, a resident on Witty Road near Alexander called police, said someone was bleeding and asked for assistance. A sheriffs deputy found the vehicle from earlier next to railroad tracks and 19-year-old Joshua Gordley of Jacksonville dead in the passenger seat. The vehicle appeared to have struck a pole. Carmody said a reconstruction of the crash conducted by Illinois State Police found that the car likely left the blacktop and turned onto the tracks, and the driver lost control. The driver, a 19-year-old man, was taken to Memorial Medical Center. He was not identified Wednesday. Alcohol was found in the vehicle, but Carmody said it has not been determined if that played a role in the accident. Morgan County Sheriffs Department, Lifestar Ambulance, South Jacksonville Fire Department, South Jacksonville Police, the Morgan County coroner and Illinois State Police were called to the scene, as was an air ambulance, but it was canceled. by Bertrand Maud Pending an organisational and coherent structure, the October 2019 uprising is already an upheaval of the conscience, a rejection of the old order and the opening to a new one. From the poor and marginalised there is a return to Christ and the Church reaching out to the world. Women played a key role. A book of many voices retraces one of the key moments in the countrys recent history. Beirut (AsiaNews) Until it gets coherently organised, the October uprising is certainly a revolution of the conscience. Whilst waiting for favourable circumstances to turn it into a coherent political revolution, the movement of 17 October 2019 is certainly a revolution of the conscience. Fumbling for a long time, we hesitated to describe this uprising as a revolution, because it was peaceful, albeit angry, people-driven, disorderly yet unifying, messy but without any of the traditional means associated with the overthrow of a regime. And yet, upon analysing it, looking at it again and rubbing shoulders with those who experienced it, the word revolution appears essential. Those in the know will be the first to recognise this; one of the aspects of their evidence is that it was moral and ethical. In the uprising of October 17, 2019, there is a no to an old order and a yes to a new order: an old order whose outlines are now well known; a "new order" at the base of which stands an unquenchable thirst for justice and freedom and a total and final rejection of the old order, steeped in compromise, unjust, violent and alienating. In the collective work published by Calima (Lebanon), Nidal Haddad sought to preserve the written traces of this uprising under the beautiful title of Sursauts d'une nation (Bursts of a nation).[*] It provides food for thought. Some see this revolution as the birth of a nation in the heat of the action. The word "bursts" refers in this case to the pangs of childbirth that accompanied it. Others, like Michelle Tueni, editor-in-chief of an-Nahar, in her contribution describes it as "the real epilogue of the civil war" that disfigured Lebanon. An aide-memoire Without trying to answer these complex questions, Nidal Haddad and 42 other writers, some of whom come from L'Orient-Le Jour, have put together Sursauts d'une nation as an aide-memoire, a reservoir of words and expressions that make up the very rich face of the admirable and very rare reawakening of a people. All it took was one tax too many, writes Nidal Haddad on the back cover, for the Lebanese population to take over the streets to show that they were fed up and rejected the corruption that plagues the country (. . .). That was 17 October 2019, a date that will remain as a turning point in the history of Lebanon. The idea of keeping written records to immortalise life and the feelings of a peoples awakenings seemed necessary to me (. . .). At a time when predicting the future is impossible, when Lebanon is going through an unprecedented economic and existential crisis, my most ardent wish is that this collection embody a precious legacy for the generations to come who will also have a lot to teach us, since all of us, each one in our own way, carry memories. Certainly, like all collective works, the texts will speak to readers unequally. Allow us here to salute those of novelist and essayist Dominique Edde for the quality of her writing, and that of the Jesuit priest Gaby Khairallah, for the consciousness raising he reports; an awareness that brought him out of his bubble, first out of "curiosity", out of the pleasant room in his residence where he prepares his literature lectures whilst sipping tea, to propel him onto the street to meet the "left-behind and the voiceless", the women "scorned by chauvinism, whilst it is often they who hold society together and weave its links", minorities of all kinds . . . and tear gas canisters. "Everything is in one word: conversion" "What I experienced in the streets, among all these people, can be summed up in one word: conversion," writes the priest. All these people pointed out Christ to me and taught me again that the Church is not confined within four walls, but extends to the whole world, starting with the street where the poorest live. Those left behind have shown me the suffering face of Christ still on the cross whilst waiting for justice to be done for the little ones with whom he identifies by calling them his brothers. The book honours the women of the 17 October revolution. Their massive presence is one of the hallmarks of this uprising, and of the collective work, where they are the majority. The words courage and dignity would never be enough for them, writes Father Khairallah. The word Lebanese might suffice. Moreover, the word "revolution" (in French) is feminine. The book can be read two ways: following the lines and between the lines. Reading Sursaut d'un nation with heart, one can hear the soul of a people calling for help, a people that is suffering, hoping, crying out in rage, dreaming and begging not to be awakened any more. But this awakening is of course inevitable. The memory of a people trying to free itself internally and externally from the confessional divisions that hinder it will still be the honour of this revolution of the conscience. "We will of course worry about when all this beauty sees victory," writes Dominique Edde. (...) Whatever the case, whatever happens, this beauty has already been translated into an unforgettable memory, and starting from there on, as evidence and a lever for change, whenever it comes. Contributors Yara Abi Akl Nassar Abi Khalil Karl Akiki Carla Bejjani Aramouni Joelle Ayache Chawki Azouri Amale Baaklini Ronald Barakat Catherina Belardi Antoine Boulad Hayat Chaker Carine Chamoun Chammas Jocelyne Dagher Hayek Jamil Dahdah Oceane Descedres Lamia Sfeir Darouni Dominique Edde Rola el-Eid Elsa Ghossoub Nayla Maalouf Guillemin Nidal Haddad Patricia Hakim Nicole V. Hamouche Belinda Ibrahim Nathalie Sebaalani Ibrahim Randa el-Kadi Nagy el-Khoury Pere Gaby Khairallah Beatrice Khater Salma Kojok Yasmina Farah Massoud Gisella Tamraz Mielvacque de la Cour Mishka Mojabber Mourani Zeina Nader Maguy Nasser Hage Fady Noun Gladys Sarkis David Sahyoun Fouad A. Salha Michelle Tueni Reine Tyan Christiane Dagher Yacoub Ramy Zein. [*] Proceeds to benefit the Cercle de la jeunesse catholique (CJC). Sursauts d'une nation will soon be on sale in all Antoine bookstores. Exceptionally, it will be on sale this Wednesday from 3 pm to 8 pm at the Order of Physicians (Furn el-Chebback) for LL 75,000 (US$ 50). In this case, we ask buyers to bring the exact amount to avoid handling cash. Social distancing will be enforced. Sacramento police interview people at Mama Marks Park on Saturday after a 9-year-old girl was killed and three other people were injured in a drive-by shooting. (Xavier Mascarenas / Sacramento Bee) A spate of shootings shook Sacramento over the weekend, leaving two children and one adult dead and several people injured, according to police reports. The first shooting disrupted a Saturday afternoon family gathering at Mama Marks Park in Sacramentos Del Paso Heights neighborhood. Several people were struck by gunfire around 1 p.m. during a drive-by shooting, police said. Among those shot was 9-year-old Makaylah "Kay Kay" Brent, who died at the scene. Her 6-year-old cousin and aunt were taken to a nearby hospital, where the woman is in critical condition, according to authorities. Another man took himself to the hospital with injuries related to the shooting, police said. About 25 to 30 people had gathered at the park for a spread of ribs, chicken, corn-on-the-cob and other barbecued goodies, said Debra Cummings, Makaylahs cousin. Community cookouts at Mama Marks are a tradition in the Del Paso Heights neighborhood. Friends and family had gathered in Saturdays sweltering heat to celebrate another girls birthday when all hell broke loose, she said. Makaylah and another girl were playing tag by the playground, said Cummings, who wasnt there when the shooting happened but heard about it from other family members. Ashley Brent, the mother of the 6-year-old, dove to protect the girls. She thought she would take the bulk of the bullet, Cummings said. It's sickening to even fathom what she had to go through." A motive for the shooting is still under investigation, said Officer Karl Chan, spokesman for the Sacramento Police Department. One of the avenues would be to see if this is gang-related, but we dont have [anything] confirmed at this point, Chan said. Makaylah Brent, 9, died in a drive-by shooting Saturday in Sacramento's Del Paso Heights neighborhood. (Debra Cummings) Cummings cited a gang war as a reason for Saturdays extensive violence, a pent-up culmination of a difficult year. The pandemic and its ensuing struggles children stuck indoors , masking , unemployment fraud are intensifying the situation, she said. Story continues Its a recipe for disaster, Cummings said. Mama Marks Park is one of the few spots in the neighborhood that children can reach on foot, Cummings said. It's named after a community matriarch known for handing out hot food to children, people experiencing homelessness and other adults. The kids felt safe going up to Mama Marks, Cummings said. As you can see, its not so safe anymore. Hours before her death, Makaylah had returned from a camping trip to a family favorite spot at Camanche Lake. All she talked about were her Bratz dolls, Cummings. She loved to dress up her braids with beads and paint her nails. She played with glittery slime. Makaylah was a child that was full of life. She was a young lady that was just blossoming into little girlyhood, Cummings said. It just kills me. I'm still crying. I cant even fathom that I'll never see this child again, from seeing her every single day of her life." On Monday, Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg condemned the attack in a news conference outside City Hall. In addition to offering his condolences, he pledged to invest more in programs targeting youth and disadvantaged neighborhoods. "It is on us to redefine and, frankly, to expand our definition of what we consider to be a poor city responsibility," Steinberg said. "Because we havent done enough." To that end, Councilman Allen Warren, whose district is home to three of the shootings, will make a list of demands to the city after the weekend's events, Mayor Pro Tem Angelique Ashby said. The requests include investing in north Sacramento public libraries, giving ample resources to a city task force on gangs, renovating Mama Marks Park and installing cameras. Warren did not attend the news conference because he was helping in his district, Ashby said. He posted his condolences Sunday on Facebook for "Little Kay Kay" and her family. He did not immediately respond to requests for comment Monday. A little over two hours after the Mama Marks drive-by, police responded to reports of a vehicle crashed into a pole in southeast Sacramento, near Jackson Road. Officers found the driver, a 17-year-old boy, inside the car, dead from a gunshot wound. And about 6:45 p.m., another drive-by shooting erupted in North Sacramento near Mabel Street, Chan said. A 17-year-old girl and two men were injured in that attack, but all were expected to survive, authorities said. Finally, just as the deadly weekend was shuddering to an end, police responded to another call of a vehicle crash in the wee hours of Monday morning, where officers found a man dead in his car with at least one life-threatening gunshot wound. That shooting also took place in Del Paso Heights, near Dry Creek Road and Harris Avenue. Police are investigating all four shootings, including whether any were related, Chan said. We dont have any evidence yet indicating that anything is connected at this point, he said. The police chief reported 94 rounds fired over the weekend, Steinberg said Monday, and 10 arrests have been made related to firearms. The series of attacks could make October a record month for Sacramento. The Police Departments most recent crime statistics , which are through August, show 27 homicides this year. That is a 42% increase from last years total of 19. It's a spike, obviously, Chan said. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Shares is the leading weekly publication for retail investors. It is packed with investment ideas, news and educational material to help build and run portfolios and get more from your money. Shares puts on free Investor Events throughout the year across the country. They provide an opportunity for investors to learn more about companies on the stock market and hear from a range of investment experts including fund managers and Shares journalists. Campaign curbs should apply to all, PM Modi must lead by example: Sena's Raut Shiv Sena tests pulse of farmers as it plans foray in UP Shiv Sena may contest 30-40 seats in Bihar: Raut India oi-Deepika S Mumbai, Oct 05: The Shiv Sena may contest 30 to 40 Assembly seats in Bihar, Sena MP Sanjay Raut said on Monday. The Rajya Sabha member said a decision on the number of seats to be contested is expected to be taken in a day or two. "Our people in Bihar want us to fight 50 seats. We are saying we should contest 30 to 40 seats," he told reporters. Asked if the Shiv Sena will field a candidate against former Bihar director general of police Gupteshwar Pandey if he is in the poll arena, Raut quipped, "Keep watching." "I will go to Bihar. I will resply to this query when I reach Bihar," Raut said. JD(U), BJP reach 122-121 seat deal for Bihar polls Shiv Sena has been targeting Pandey since he sought a CBI probe in actor Sushant Singh Rajputs death. The Sena- NCP-Congress, partners in the MVA government in Maharashtra, have been critical of the former IPS officer over his remarks. Hathras Case: UP Police files 19 FIRs, ink thrown at AAP MP Sanjay Singh | Oneindia News Pandey, while heading the Bihar Police force, had pitched for a CBI probe into Rajput''s death case. He took voluntary retirement from service last month and joined the Nitish Kumar-led JD(U). The Bihar Assembly polls will be held in three phases on October 28, November 3 and November 7, and the counting of votes will take place on November 10. A retired university academic with a 14 year addiction to child pornography was behind bars on Monday after a judge branded him a danger to all youngsters. Dr Hugh Battenbo, 75, had already been given a warning about his habit five years ago but he was arrested again after building a library of explicit images of youngsters. Police seized a total 17 devices during a raid at Battenbo's 300,000 apartment in Didsbury, South Manchester and found more than 10,000 suspicious images on seven of them. Inquiries revealed he had been downloading pornographic pictures from the internet since 2006. Dr Hugh Battenbo, a retired university academic with a 14 year addiction to child pornography, has been jailed after a judge branded him a danger to all youngsters Widower Battenbo who has a Masters degree and a Phd had previously worked in the engineering department at Manchester University and authored several science books. At Minshull Street Crown Court, Manchester, he was jailed for 12 months after admitting making indecent photographs of a child. Battenbo had originally been detained in 2015 after police found a total of 22,958 vile images on computers at his home. Some of the images showed the abuse of children aged as young as five and there were also moving images, cartoons and caricatures depicting youngsters. The scientist had used Photoshop to manipulate images and he also added text to them. Battenbo insisted he only started viewing the images after downloading legal adult pornography. He was later given a two year suspended jail term was ordered to sign the Sex Offender Register and was issued with a court order restricting his use of IT equipment. The latest raid took place in May 2018 with police finding 2013 indecent images - 119 of which were still and moving images in the most serious category A. Battenbo was jailed for 12 months after admitting making indecent photographs of a child at Minshull Street Crown Court, Manchester (pictured above) Miss Alison Mather prosecuting said: 'There were another 8,062 files of a similar nature but these were not all categorised because the threshold had been met in respect of images that had already been viewed. 'Only seven of the 17 devices which were seized were examined as again this threshold was met and it was not necessary to interrogate the remaining 10 devices. 'In relation to the internet, history can see from the report and the types of searches that took place and the dates of the searches. 'In relation to the images themselves, they are said to be concerning children aged between three and 17-years of age and the majority of the images being children between 12 and 17.' In mitigation defence counsel Andrew Thomas said: 'Dr Battenbo takes full responsibility for his offending. 'He speaks very frankly about what has become for him an addiction and that's now brought him before the court on two separate occasions. 'This was an addiction to pornography generally which then developed into looking also amongst other images at images of children. Sentencing Battenbo to 12 months in jail Judge Mark Savill (pictured) said he was 'tinged with self-pity' 'Dr Battenbo knows full well the systemic harm viewing of this material cause. He knows that and has been through a sexual offender's treatment program. 'He's an intelligent man and he knows that he has done wrong and he has lapsed again. He is an educated man but not in the sense of someone who's privileged with an upbringing of a silver spoon in their mouth. 'He left school as a young man and went into heavy industry and impressed employers and was put into vocational training and progressed magnificently at work in the early 1970s. 'He obtained qualifications treated as being the equivalent to a first degree. 'And he began at the University of Manchester and straight onto his master's course and then a PhD. 'All his adult life up till his 60s he's led a life of a distinguished academic career from Manchester university put to good use as an engineer. One can only see how far Dr Battenbo has fallen as a result of these offences. 'Once upon a time when he Googled his name it came up with references to academic papers. 'But now when he Googles his name what comes up is a front-page headline in 2015 when he was last convicted. 'Has felt shame and public humiliation that falls from offences of this kind. 'For 40 years he had a long term relationship with his partner who was 14-years older who became ill with a long illness before finally passing away. 'The reality is Dr Battenbo during that period of his partner's illness and subsequently led a very isolated and lonely life as a carer and although was still working had little life outside of work and outside these responsibilities. 'He acknowledges in the mid-2000 period he began viewing pornography in a way that then developed. 'There have been suicide attempts and to put it bluntly it's understandable with a man of that age with that personal background facing such humiliation you might start to think of taking his own life. 'He is now facing a custodial sentence for the first time in his life at an age of 75 and with potential frailty.' Sentencing Battenbo Judge Mark Savill told him: 'You worked hard from a difficult upbringing to achieve a high standard not only within the community but also the academic world too. 'You also had a long term loving relationship yet lurking in the background was not only an interest in pornography but also an interest in child pornography. 'You have written me an articulate letter setting out what you say about all of this. 'But I can't help but note that one perhaps two sentences deal with what you did whereas the rest of the letter deals with you personally. 'I can't help but think it's to a degree tinged with self-pity. You say you are sorry but it's only in July this year that you sought out individual counselling. 'I accept have made genuine attempts to take your own life and accept now at an age you are isolated and lonely in the community. 'I also accept as genuine your remorse once again because again you simply could not resist temptation. 'But the fact this went on for a period of time is not insignificant and there a large number of different images and some were moving images. 'In my view, you do as the report points out pose a risk to children because of your behaviour online.' Battenbo was also ordered to sign the Sex Offender Register for a further ten years and obey the terms of a Sexual harm Prevention Order. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his wife will pay an official visit to the United Kingdom on October 7-8, the presidential press service has reported. "On October 7-8, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and Mrs. Olena Zelenska will pay an official visit to the United Kingdom," the report said. According to the report, during his visit, the president is to hold talks with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and the Ukrainian-British agreement on political cooperation, free trade and strategic partnership will then be signed. A number of other bilateral documents on cooperation in the field of defense and financial support of bilateral projects are also to be signed. In addition, the presidential couple is to meet with Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as part of the visit. The head of state is also scheduled to meet with Speaker of the House of Commons Lindsay Hoyle, Lord Mayor of the City of London William Russell, visit the London Stock Exchange and meet with British investors. op Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said the Congress leader has the right to voice his views but if he comes with a big procession from Punjab, we won't allow that Chandigarh: Ahead of Rahul Gandhis tractor rally in Haryana against the new farm laws, the BJP-led government on Monday said the Congress leader can bring a few people in the state but it will not permit a big crowd from Punjab which can "disturb" the atmosphere. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said Rahul has the right to put forth his views but if he comes with a big procession from Punjab, we won''t allow that. Khattar said nobody will be permitted to "spoil the atmosphere" or take law and order into one's hands. If he wants to have his programme by having some people from the state accompany him, there is no objection, the chief minister told reporters on the planned two-day protests by the opposition party from Tuesday. He was replying to queries on the statement of Haryana home minister Anil Vij that the government will not allow Rahul to enter the state with a big crowd from Punjab and that the Congress leader can come "alone or with just a few people. Rahul, who is holding tractor rallies in Punjab against the newly enacted farm laws, is scheduled to reach Pehowa town in Kurukshetra district of Haryana with his supporters on Tuesday and address a gathering. He will also address public gatherings in Karnal on Wednesday during his two-day visit, Congress leaders said. Vij said the issue concerns our law and order and two Congress-sponsored rallies were also stopped last month by us from entering our state. "If he (Rahul Gandhi) wants to come alone or with just a few people, there is no problem. He can come 100 times, we have no objection. But if he comes with a big crowd from Punjab to disturb Haryana's atmosphere, then we will not permit. We are not going to allow that," Vij told PTI on Monday. He alleged that the Congress, which is in power in Punjab, wants to use the state machinery to spoil Haryana's peaceful atmosphere, which we will not allow. Vij also accused the Congress of trying to instigate farmers of Haryana and said the state government will not let them succeed in their designs. "Under no circumstances will we allow Congress's evil designs to spoil peace and tranquillity in Haryana. We won't permit it at any cost, he said. Vij, who is also the health minister of Haryana, had said on 1 October too that Rahul's tractor rally won't be allowed to enter the state. Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh had hit back, asking if a "jungle raj" is prevailing in Haryana. Senior Congress leader from Haryana and former state Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Sharma dared Vij to stop Rahul from entering the state. "He should remain present at the inter-state border when Rahul ji comes, said Sharma and asked how could he stop a citizen from exercising the democratic right to express views in a peaceful manner. After a night halt in Kurukshetra, Rahul will visit Pipli on Wednesday morning, where he will meet the farmers who were allegedly lathicharged during a protest against the three farm legislation on 10 September, Congress leaders said. The former Congress president will then proceed to Nilokheri and Karnal before returning to Delhi. Vij said no permission will be given to gather huge crowds at one place inside Haryana. I am bound by law, how can I permit huge crowds, Vij said. Vij also took a swipe at the Congress leaders for their tractor rally in Punjab They are not concerned about farmers, they are only doing politics in their name. "Rahul Gandhi, Amarinder Singh and (Punjab Congress chief) Sunil Jakhar ride a modified tractor. Even during their so-called protests, they do not want to part with luxury. They should see how hard a farmer toils in his fields, he said. Vij said the Congress was "misleading" farmers on the new laws, which are going to bring a big change for the better in the lives of peasants. On Amarinder's criticism, he retorted, Actually, it is Punjab where there is no law and order. They talk about farmers, but they burn the tools they worship. First they (youth Congress workers) set fire to a tractor on Ambala border, later a tractor was set on fire by them in Delhi. Photo: The Canadian Press New Green party leader Annamie Paul Former Green leader Elizabeth May slammed the New Democrats this morning for refusing stand down their candidate in a coming byelection so the first Black woman elected to lead a federal party in Canada can win a seat. Annamie Paul is the new leader of the Green party after winning on the eighth ballot of the contest Saturday. Paul says she is not surprised none of the other parties will offer what's sometimes called "leader's courtesy" in the upcoming byelection in Toronto Centre but that she is used to overcoming obstacles. But May says in 2019, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said it was "classy" for the Greens to stand down so he could win a byelection in suburban Vancouver when a victory for him was not a sure thing. May says Singh should think about that and asks other New Democrats to ask themselves how classy they think it is for their party to try and block Paul. NDP National Director Anne McGrath says the NDP candidate in Toronto Centre was chosen democratically by the party membership and will be on the ballot. Dublin, Sept. 29, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ResearchAndMarkets.com published a new article on the hydrogen power industry "Saudi Arabia Sends World's First Shipment of Blue Ammonia to Japan for Zero Carbon Energy" A pilot study conducted by the Institute of Energy Economics Japan and Saudi Aramco in partnership with Saudi Basic Industries Corp has seen the world's first shipment of blue ammonia from Saudi Arabia to Japan to be used in power generation. Blue ammonia is a feedstock for blue hydrogen. The Saudi Japan blue ammonia supply demonstration study focuses on converting hydrocarbons to hydrogen and then to ammonia as well as the capture of associated carbon dioxide emissions. Ammonia derived from renewable sources that create no emissions is known as green ammonia. Japan has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 26% by 2030 from 2013 levels, under the Paris climate pact. Since blue ammonia can be burned in a thermal power station without releasing carbon emissions, it has the potential to make a significant contribution to the country's low carbon future. The study also represents a way for Saudi Aramco to demonstrate the potential for hydrocarbons as a source of low carbon hydrogen. Japan will receive 40 tons of blue ammonia in the first shipment. To see the full article and a list of related reports on the market, visit "Saudi Arabia Sends World's First Shipment of Blue Ammonia to Japan for Zero Carbon Energy" 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. Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. Landow blamed the lapse of judgment on party Chair Jane Kleeb. Kleeb continues to decline to comment on the matter, except to say that Kleine could expect the support of the Nebraska Democratic Party if he decides to run for reelection in 2022. (Kleine has not announced whether hell seek office again.) Were not condemning Don Kleine, she said the day after the resolution passed. Were not asking him to resign. It was the bodys intention to say his comments were unacceptable. Landow said hes heard from party friends who wont purchase a table for a fundraising dinner or, like Barrett, are changing their party affiliation. Landow said hell always be a Democrat and will be one on the day I die, but is pulling his financial support from the state party. He plans to ask the party to return a recent financial contribution so he can give it to Kleines potential reelection campaign. Landow said he has heard from many rank-and-file Democrats who no longer want to be a part of the state party. A 17-year-old teenager in Maryland has been arrested almost 500 miles away after allegedly killing his 5-year-old half-sister and fleeing to Ohio. The incident occurred at approximately 8:15 a.m. when Anne Arundel County Police Homicide Detectives and the Anne Arundel County Police Departments Evidence Collection Unit responded to a home in Pasadena, Maryland where they found a deceased 5-year-old child who had suffered from apparent trauma, according to a statement issued by the Anne Arundel County Police Department. MORE: Boy, 2, dies from apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound while 2 adults and teen were home with him The victim, later identified as Anaya Jannah Abdul, was determined to have died due to multiple sharp force injuries and her death was ruled a homicide following an autopsy. Evidence recovered at the scene of the crime revealed that her half-brother, 17-year-old Stephen Jarrod Davis, was the prime suspect in the homicide and authorities were able to secure an arrest warrant to charge him as an adult with the first degree murder of his 5-year-old half-sister. MORE: Man kicks down door, shoots ex-girlfriend to death as she lay with 4-year-old daughter On October 3rd at approximately 11:30 a.m., detectives, with the assistance of Ohio police agencies, were able to locate Davis in the Springfield, Ohio area, said Anne Arundel Countys Police Department in a statement. Davis was arrested by Ohio authorities and is currently awaiting extradition back to Maryland. There were no additional criminal charges placed in Ohio. The Anne Arundel County Police Crisis Intervention Team is now working with the responding officers and the victims family to provide resources. MORE: Girl, 13, dies after violent carjacking of family van with 4 kids inside The motives for the murder are currently unknown and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing is ongoing. Teen who allegedly murdered 5-year-old half-sister arrested almost 500 miles away originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Permian Jewel Preps for Biden And More This article was first published on Rigzone here Here are some of Rigzone's top upstream stories during the last week, just in case you missed them Permian Crown Jewel Preps for Biden Ban Bloomberg reported that oil executives are rushing to build a war chest of federal permits to drill in New Mexico. The move comes after Joe Biden promised to ban new fracking on federal land if elected, Bloomberg highlighted. Read full article here Devon to Become Bigger Permian Player Devon Energy Corp. has agreed to buy WPX Energy Inc. in a $2.56 billion all-stock deal. The combined company will be one of the largest independent U.S. shale producers. Read full article here $2B North Sea Field Gets Green Light Equinor and its partners Petoro, Var Energi and ConocoPhillips Skandinavia have decided to develop the Breidablikk field in the North Sea. Investments in the development are expected to total around $1.95B (NOK 18.6 billion). Read full article here Shell Expects to Cut up to 9,000 Jobs Royal Dutch Shell plc has revealed that it expects to make between 7,000 and 9,000 job cuts by the end of 2022. The companys chief executive officer, Ben van Beurden, described the process as extremely tough. Take control of your future. Search THOUSANDS of Oil & Gas jobs on Rigzone.com Search Now >> Read full article here Elon Musk Feels Bad for Hating on Oil Elon Musk - the co-founder and leader of Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink and The Boring Company - has exhibited remorse for hating on oil and gas in a new podcast carried out by Kara Swisher of the New York Times. Read full article here BP Hits 25-Year Low Bloomberg reported that BPs share price dropped to a 25 year low a week after the company revealed its plan to turn itself into a clean-energy giant. Read full article here Equinor Makes New Offshore Discovery Equinor has made a new oil and gas discovery in the Swisher prospect offshore Norway. Recoverable resources at the site are estimated to be in the range of 2-6 million standard cubic meters of oil equivalent, or 13-38 million barrels of oil equivalent, according to the company. Story continues Read full article here To contact the author, email andreas.exarheas@rigzone.com More From Rigzone.com, The Leading Energy Platform: >> Find the latest oil and gas jobs on Rigzone.com << New Delhi, Oct 5 : Stressing on the significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and India's growing role in the segment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday cautioned against weaponisation of AI by "non-state actors". In his address at the inaugural session of 'RAISE 2020', a virtual summit on AI, Modi said that using AI properly remains a collective responsibility. "It remains our collective responsibility to ensure trust in how AI is used. Algorithm transparency is key to establishing this trust. Equally important is accountability. We must protect the world against weaponisation of AI by non-state actors," he said. Non-state actors generally refer to organisations and individuals that are not affiliated with, directed by, or funded through any government. Modi also stressed that despite the growing significance of AI, human creativity and human emotions continue to be humanity's greatest strength. "They are our unique advantage over machines," he said. Emphasising on the govenrment's push towards technology and AI, the Prime Minister said: "We want India to become a global hub for AI. Many Indians are already working on this. I hope many more do so in the times to come." He said that AI can play a major role in agriculture, creating next generation urban infrastructure and making disaster management systems stronger. Modi also said that the National Educational Technology Forum is being formed, which will create an 'e-Education' unit to boost the digital infrastructure, digital content and capacity. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 5, 2020 / Sarama Resources Ltd. ("Sarama" or the "Company") is pleased to advise that it is pursuing a second listing of its securities on the Australian Securities Exchange ("ASX") in addition to the continued listing of its common shares ("Shares") on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV"). The Board of Directors (the "Board") believes that seeking a dual listing will provide the best platform to reflect the value of the Company's assets as it transitions towards development. Sarama believes that Board changes announced during 2020 and the recent increase in mineral resources at its flagship Sanutura Project position the Company well to transition towards development (News Releases: June 24 and September 8, 2020). The dual listing of the Company's securities on the ASX is the next step in this process. Sarama's head office, entire Board and the majority of its senior management are now based in Perth, Western Australia, alongside many other ASX-listed, West African focussed, gold developers and producers, including Perseus Mining, Resolute Mining, West African Resources, Cardinal Resources and Tietto Minerals, which currently have a collective market capitalisation in excess of C$4billion. Commenting on the proposed ASX listing, Andrew Dinning, CEO, said: "We believe that a dual listing will provide Sarama with both access to a broader pool of informed capital and the best opportunity for its shareholders to realise optimal value for their shareholding in Sarama. Following ASX listing, Sarama will continue to advance its Sanutura Project towards feasibility, including completing a significant exploration program designed to expand the Company's existing resources, improve resource confidence and test numerous exploration targets within the Company's 100% owned 1,400km2 landholding in the heart of one of Burkina Faso's most prolific gold belts. The Board is confident that achieving a dual listing of the Company's shares is the best way to maximise shareholder value in the medium and long term." Sarama has engaged leading resources-focussed broker, Hartleys Limited, to act as Lead Manager for its Australian listing. It is expected that an ASX listing prospectus will be filed with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission ("ASIC") in the coming weeks. The proposed ASX listing will comprise the issuance of Chess Depositary Instruments ("CDI") to participants in the ASX listing which will rank equally and will trade on a 1:1 basis with the Shares listed on the TSXV. In order to comply with ASX and ASIC regulations, which require a certain minimum issuance price, Sarama will be consolidating its issued and outstanding Shares on a 3:1 basis (the "Consolidation"). No fractional shares will be issued as a result of the Consolidation. The Consolidation was approved by the Board pursuant to the new Articles of the Company approved by shareholders at the Company's annual and special general meeting held on September 17, 2020. The TSXV has approved the Consolidation. Prior to the Consolidation, the Company has 270,299,769 Shares, 6,500,000 Warrants and 24,865,000 Options outstanding. Following the Consolidation, the Company will have 90,099,923 Shares, 2,166,667 Warrants and 8,288,333 Options issued and outstanding. The Company's name will remain unchanged post-Consolidation and the Shares will continue to trade on the TSXV under the SWA symbol. For further information on the Company's activities, please contact: Andrew Dinning e: info@saramaresources.com t: +61 (0) 8 9363 7600 ABOUT SARAMA RESOURCES LTD Sarama Resources Ltd (TSX-V: SWA) is a West African focused gold explorer and developer with substantial landholdings in south-west Burkina Faso. Sarama is focused on maximising the value of its strategic assets and advancing its key projects towards development. Sarama's Sanutura Project, in which the Company holds a 100% interest, is located within the prolific Hounde and Boromo Greenstone Belts in south-west Burkina Faso and is the exploration and development focus of the Company. Its exploration programs have successfully discovered a mineral resource of 0.6Moz gold (indicated) and 1.9Moz gold (inferred)(1) which is complemented by the Bondi Deposit(2,4) (historical estimate of mineral resources of 0.3Moz Au measured and indicated and 0.1Moz Au inferred. Together, the deposits present a potential development option for a central processing facility fed from multiple sources and principally from the Company's Sanutura Project. Sarama has built further optionality into its portfolio including a 600km exploration position in the highly prospective Banfora Belt in south-western Burkina Faso. The Koumandara Project hosts several regional-scale structural features and trends of gold-in-soil anomalism extending for over 40km along strike. Sarama also holds approximately 19% participating interest in the Karankasso Project Joint Venture ("JV") which is situated adjacent to the Company's Sanutura Project in Burkina Faso and is a JV between Sarama and Endeavour Mining Corp ("Endeavour") in which Endeavour is the operator of the JV. In February 2020, an updated mineral resource estimate of 709koz gold(3) was declared for the Karankasso Project JV. The Company's Board and management team have a proven track record in Africa and a strong history in the discovery and development of large-scale gold deposits. Sarama is well positioned to build on its current success with a sound strategy to surface and maximise the value of its property portfolio. FOOTNOTES 1. Current mineral resource estimate - 9.4Mt @ 1.9g/t Au for 0.6Moz Au (indicated) plus 43.6Mt @ 1.4g/t Au for 1.9Moz (inferred), reported at cut-off grades ranging 0.2-1.6g/t Au, reflecting the mining methods and processing flowsheets assumed to assess the liklihood of the mineral resources to have reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction. The effective date of the Company's mineral resource estimate is September 8, 2020. A technical report will be filed within 45 days of the effective date of the resource estimate and will be available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com 2. Bondi Deposit - 4.1Mt @ 2.1g/t Au for 282,000oz Au (measured and indicated) plus 2.5Mt @ 1.8g/t Au for 149,700oz Au (inferred), reported at a 0.5 g/t Au cut-off. i. The historical estimate of the Bondi Deposit reflects a mineral resource estimate compiled by Orezone Gold Corporation ("Orezone") and has an effective date of February 20, 2009. The historical estimate is contained in a technical report titled "Technical Report on the Mineral Resource of the Bondigui Gold Project", dated date of February 20, 2009 and prepared by Yves Buro (the "Bondi Technical Report"). Yves Buro is an employee of Met-Chem Canada Inc and is independent of Orezone and Sarama. The technical report is available under Orezone's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com ii. Sarama believes that the historical estimate is relevant to investors' understanding of the property, as it reflects the most recent and substantive technical work undertaken in respect of the Bondi Deposit. iii. The historical estimate was informed by 886 drillholes, assayed for gold by cyanidation methods, which were used to interpret mineralised envelopes and geological zones over the area of the historical estimate. Gold grade interpolation was undertaken using ID methodology based on input parameters derived from geostatistical and geological analyses assessments. Field measurements and geological logging of drillholes were used to determine weathering boundaries and bulk densities for modelled blocks. iv. The historical estimate uses the mineral resource reporting categories required under National Instrument 43-101. v. No more recent estimates of the mineral resource or other data are available. vi. Sarama is currently undertaking the necessary verification work in the field and on the desktop that may support the future reclassification of the historical estimate to a mineral resource. vii. A qualified person engaged by Sarama has not undertaken sufficient work to verify the historical estimate as a current mineral resource and Sarama is therefore not treating the historical estimate as a current mineral resource. 3. Karankasso Project current mineral resource estimate - the current mineral resource estimate for the Karankasso Project of 12.74Mt @ 1.73g/t Au for 709koz Au (effective date of December 31, 2019) was disclosed on February 24, 2020 by Semafo Inc ("Semafo", since acquired by Endeavour Mining Corp. "Endeavour"). For further information regarding that mineral resource estimate, refer to the news release "Semafo: Bantou Project Inferred Resources Increase to 2.2Moz" dated February 24, 2020 and Semafo: Bantou Project NI43-101 Technical Report - Mineral Resource Estimate" dated April 3, 2020. The news release and technical report are available under Semafo's and Endeavour's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The mineral resource estimate was fully prepared by, or under the supervision of Semafo. Sarama has not independently verified Semafo's mineral resource estimate and takes no responsibility for its accuracy. Semafo, and now Endeavour, is the operator of the Karankasso Project JV and Sarama is relying on their Qualified Persons' assurance of the validity of the mineral resource estimate. Additional technical work has been undertaken on the Karankasso Project since the effective date but Sarama is not in a position to quantify the impact of this additional work on the mineral resource estimate referred to above. 4. The Djarkadougou Exploration Permit, which hosts the Bondi Deposit, is going through a process with the government of Burkina Faso where it is required it be re-issued as a new full-term exploration permit. The Company is in discussion with senior government officials regarding certain impediments to the re-issue of the Exploration Permit and anticipates these discussions will be completed in due course, though there can be no assurance that the process will be successfully completed on a timely basis, or at all. CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION Information in this news release that is not a statement of historical fact constitutes forward-looking information. Such forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, the timing of listing on the ASX, the completion of the Consolidation as planned, the potential for the listing to proceed as planned, the potential to raise the required funds at the required price for the listing to proceed as planned or at all, the updated mineral resource estimate and the timing of the filing of the new technical report, statements regarding the Company's future exploration and development plans, the potential for the Sanutura and Karankasso Projects to host economic mineralisation, the potential for open pit and underground mining at the Sanutura Project, the potential to expand the present oxide component of the existing estimated mineral resources at the Sanutura Project, the reliability of the historical estimate of mineral resources at the Bondi Deposit, the potential for the receipt of regulatory approvals and the timing and prospects for the re-issuance of the Djarkadougou Exploration Permit by the Government of Burkina Faso. Actual results, performance or achievements of the Company may vary from the results suggested by such forward-looking statements due to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Such factors include, among others, that the business of exploration for gold and other precious minerals involves a high degree of risk and is highly speculative in nature; mineral resources are not mineral reserves, they do not have demonstrated economic viability, and there is no certainty that they can be upgraded to mineral reserves through continued exploration; few properties that are explored are ultimately developed into producing mines; geological factors; the actual results of current and future exploration; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated, as well as those factors disclosed in the Company's publicly filed documents. There can be no assurance that any mineralisation that is discovered will be proven to be economic, or that future required regulatory licensing or approvals will be obtained. However, the Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the Company's ability to carry on its exploration activities, the sufficiency of funding, the timely receipt of required approvals, the price of gold and other precious metals, that the Company will not be affected by adverse political events, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain further financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Sarama does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable laws. CAUTION REGARDING PUBLIC OFFER For the purposes of section 734(5)(b) of the Australian Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (Corporations Act), Sarama notes the following: Sarama intends to conduct a public offer to raise funds by an issue of ordinary shares (in the form of CDIs) under a prospectus, comprising a disclosure document under Part 6D.2 of the Corporations Act; the prospectus will be made available when the securities are offered; anyone who wants to acquire securities under the public offer will need to complete an application form that will be in or will accompany the prospectus; and a copy of the prospectus will be available on Sarama's website (https://saramaresources.ca/) or from the Company's registered office. QUALIFIED PERSONS' STATEMENT Scientific or technical information in this news release that relates to the preparation of the Company's mineral resource estimate for the Tankoro Deposit within the Sanutura Project is based on information compiled or approved by Adrian Shepherd. Adrian Shepherd is an employee of Cube Consulting Pty Ltd and is considered to be independent of Sarama Resources Ltd. Adrian Shepherd is a Chartered Professional Member in good standing of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the commodity, style of mineralisation under consideration and activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. Adrian Shepherd consents to the inclusion in this news release of the information, in the form and context in which it appears. Scientific or technical information in this news release that relates to tank-based and oxidative metallurgical testwork and mineral processing is based on information compiled or approved by Fred Kock. Fred Kock is an employee of Orway Mineral Consultants Pty Ltd and is considered to be independent of Sarama Resources Ltd. Fred Kock is a Fellow in good standing of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the commodity, style of mineralisation under consideration and activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. Fred Kock consents to the inclusion in this news release of the information, in the form and context in which it appears. Scientific or technical information in this disclosure, in respect of the Bondi Deposit relating to mineral resource and exploration information drawn from the Technical Report prepared for Orezone on that deposit has been approved by Guy Scherrer. Guy Scherrer is an employee of Sarama Resources Ltd and is a member in good standing of the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the commodity, style of mineralisation under consideration and activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. Guy Scherrer consents to the inclusion in this disclosure of the information, in the form and context in which it appears. Scientific or technical information in this disclosure that relates to the quotation of the Karankasso Project's mineral resource estimate and exploration activities is based on information compiled by Paul Schmiede. Paul Schmiede is an employee of Sarama Resources Ltd and is a Fellow in good standing of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Paul Schmiede has sufficient experience which is relevant to the commodity, style of mineralisation under consideration and activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. Paul Schmiede consents to the inclusion in this disclosure of the information, in the form and context in which it appears. Paul Schmiede and Sarama have not independently verified Semafo's (now Endeavour's) mineral resource estimate and take no responsibility for its accuracy. 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. SOURCE: Sarama Resources Ltd. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/609086/Sarama-Resources-Seeks-to-Dual-List-on-ASX Armenian and Azerbaijani forces exchanged heavy rocket and artillery fire as fighting intensified over Nagorno-Karabakh on Sunday, with the breakaway region's capital and Azerbaijan's second-largest city hit. Armenia said that Nagorno-Karabakh's main city Stepanakert, which has been under shelling since Friday, was hit again on Sunday and AFP journalists said there were regular explosions and clouds of black smoke rising in parts of the city. Azerbaijan's defence ministry said meanwhile that Armenian forces had shelled Ganja, a city of more than 330,000 in western Azerbaijan, with footage showing buildings in ruins. On Sunday night, Hikmet Hajiyev, an adviser to President Ilham Aliyev, wrote on Twitter that Armenians launched "missile attacks against Azerbaijani civilians and civilian infrastructure" in the industrial city of Mingechavir and the Absheron district, some 80 kilometres (50 miles) from capital Baku. Stepping up its bellicose rhetoric, Karabakh's presidency threatened to "expand subsequent (military) actions to the entire territory of Azerbaijan". Each side accused the other of targeting civilian areas, as the conflict widened a week after heavy fighting broke out in the decades-old dispute over the ethnic-Armenian region. Armenia and Azerbaijan have resisted international calls for a ceasefire and clashes have intensified in recent days, with both sides claiming victories on the front and saying they are inflicting heavy losses. In a fiery address to the nation, Azerbaijani President Aliyev set conditions for a halt to the fighting that would be near impossible for Armenia to accept. He said that Armenian forces "must leave our territories, not in words but in deeds," provide a timetable for a full withdrawal, and recognise the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. Yerevan rejected Aliyev's demands. - 'Chase them like dogs' - "Conditionality is not acceptable, (Aliyev) must renounce the use of force and engage constructively in negotiations without imposing maximalist positions," Armenian foreign ministry spokeswoman, Anna Nagdalyan, told AFP. Sirens were sounding and explosions could be heard at regular intervals in Stepanakert, as residents took shelter, including several families in the basement of the city's Holy Mother of God Cathedral. Armenia's foreign ministry said Stepanakert and other towns had been hit, accusing Azerbaijani forces of "the deliberate targeting of the civilian population". There were reports of dead and wounded civilians in Stepanakert and the historic town of Shusha. Azerbaijan said Ganja was under shell fire, including from areas outside of Karabakh in Armenian territory, with at least one civilian killed. Azerbaijan's ally Turkey accused Armenia of "targeting civilians" in Ganja and reiterated support for its fellow Turkic and Muslim country as "one nation, two states". Karabakh leader Arayik Harutyunyan warned that it would now consider "military facilities in Azerbaijan's big cities" as legitimate targets. "I call on the residents of these cities to immediately leave," Harutyunyan said in a post on Facebook. - 'Bombs falling in the yard' - The International Committee of the Red Cross on Sunday condemned the reports of "indiscriminate shelling and other alleged unlawful attacks using explosive weaponry in cities, towns and other populated areas". Azerbaijan claims to have taken control of a string of settlements in recent days as well as a strategically important plateau. On Sunday Aliyev said his forces had retaken the town of Jabrayil, part of an area outside Karabakh seized by the separatists in the 1990s as a buffer zone, hailing it as an important victory. Armenia denied the claim. Authorities in both countries have reported more than 250 dead since the fighting began, including 42 civilians. Armenian separatist forces have reported more than 200 dead -- including 51 on Saturday -- while Azerbaijan has not released any figures on its military casualties. Azerbaijan said Sunday that two civilians had been killed in shelling on the southern town of Beylagan, where a journalist working with AFP saw residents picking through the rubble of destroyed homes. - Praying for peace - "I was baking bread when I heard explosions, I opened the door and saw that bombs were falling right into the yard," said one woman, showing journalists the blown-out windows and partially collapsed roof of her home. In Armenia's majority-Christian capital Yerevan, residents gathered in churches for services Sunday to pray and light candles. "I came to ask God for peace, for our country and our soldiers," Aytsemik Melikyan told AFP outside the Saint Sarkis Church. Russia, the United States and France -- who co-chair a mediation group that has failed to find a political resolution to the conflict -- have called for an immediate halt to the fighting. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed concern over "the increase of casualties" among civilians in a call with his Armenian counterpart Sunday. Karabakh's declaration of independence from Azerbaijan during the collapse of the Soviet Union sparked a war in the early 1990s that claimed 30,000 lives. Talks to resolve the conflict have made little progress since a 1994 ceasefire agreement. Amy Coney Barrett has become the newest member of the U.S. Supreme Court. During the lightning-quick confirmation process that spanned just one month, the debate surrounding Barrett's appointment focused largely on the fate of abortion rights. But her tenure could significantly affect workers' rights as well, experts say. While no one can predict how justices will ultimately rule once they have a seat on the nation's highest court, their past records offer a meaningful window into how they interpret the law. And in cases ranging from harassment on the job to debt collection, Barrett's opinions have often tilted toward bosses and business. "Through her record on the Seventh Circuit ... her rulings have favored employers as opposed to workers, says Carl Tobias, a professor at the University of Richmond School of Law, referring to the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals based in Chicago. Barrett's appointment could have a particular influence on the most vulnerable in the workplace, says Judy Conti, government affairs director for the National Employment Law Project, a worker advocacy group. Life during the pandemic: 'I will be put out of my house': Some Americans who struggled early in crisis are on brink, others find jobs Conspiracy theories:Social media teems with conspiracy theories from QAnon and Trump critics after president's positive COVID-19 test Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett on Sept. 26, 2020, in Washington, D.C. "Theyre the final arbiter of whether legislation that is designed to help workers is read expansively or narrowly, and everything about her record tells me that she will view things narrowly," Conti says. She adds that she worries that the balance of the court would tip further from the needs of people who earn lower wages and who are vulnerable to workplace abuse. But Noah Finkel, a partner in the labor and employment department of the law firm Seyfarth Shaw, says that while Barrett will likely typically side with the five current conservative members of the bench, she will not push the court in a dramatically more right-wing direction. Story continues "I dont really see her as all that radical,'' he says. "I don't see her bringing a lot of change in the employment sphere. Obviously, Justice (Ruth Bader) Ginsburg is well known for some opinions that are pro-employee, but many are dissents that she offered. So ultimately what it might mean is there's a 6-3 decision instead of a 5 to 4.'' Finkel added that Barrett's record on the 7th Circuit was"fairly even-handed.'' And he noted that it was Justice Neil Gorsuch, a conservative, who wrote the decision that enshrined workplace protections for the LGBT community because he stuck to the letter of the law as defined in the statute. Barrett would do the same. "While many times that results in a pro-employer decision, it doesnt necessarily,'' Finkel says. "It could also be pro-employee. And shes demonstrated great respect for jury decisions that are in favor of employees and has not upset those decisions. Workplace discrimination In the case of Terry L. Smith vs. the Illinois Department of Transportation, a district court ruled against Smith, an emergency traffic patrol worker, who said he had dealt with a hostile work environment and was fired after he complained about being subjected to racial bigotry on the job. In an August 2019 ruling upholding the lower court's decision, Barrett wrote that even though Smith had been called the 'N' word by Lloyd Colbert, a supervisor "an egregious racial epithet'' Smith didn't prove that the slur caused him another type of distress or increased the stress he was already under. "That wont do under Title VII,'' Barrett wrote, referring to the section of the Civil Rights Act that prohibits workplace discrimination based on factors like race or religion. "Without evidence that Colberts outburst changed Smiths subjective experience during his last two weeks at the department, a reasonable jury could not resolve the hostile work environment claim in Smiths favor.'' That ruling is troubling, Conti says. For a white woman to say a Black person hearing the 'n' word doesnt change their experience at the workplace,'' she says, that it "doesnt make it subjectively hostile to that person and abusive ... shows me that she is deeply out of touch with the experience that certainly Black people, and other people of color experience when theyre the victims of that sort of harassment and verbal violence." 'A hostile work environment' But Barrett has sometimes sided with workers. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission sued on behalf of a one-time Costco employee named Dawn Suppo, who said she endured a hostile work environment when she was harassed by a customer for more than a year. A district court ruled in favor of Suppo, and Barrett later agreed, writing in a 2018 decision that "a reasonable jury could conclude that'' the harassment "was severe or pervasive enough to render Suppos work environment hostile.'' Age and the workplace In a decision that was not unanimous, Barrett joined fellow judges in ruling against a then 58-year-old attorney, Dale Kleber, who accused CareFusion Corporation of age discrimination when Kleber applied for a job that went to a 29-year-old instead. The "disparate impact'' Kleber was alleging applied to employees, not job applicants, the decision said. "As a judge, her rulings have sided with corporations over people 76% of the time," says Maggie Jo Buchanan, director of legal progress at the Center for American Progress. Debt collection In the case Paula Casillas v. Madison Avenue Associates Inc., Casillas filed a class-action suit against a company that was trying to collect a debt but had failed to specify that if she wanted to seek verification of what she owed, her request had to be in writing. Barrett wrote in the June 2019 decision that Casillas did not have grounds to bring that suit based on "a bare procedural violation of the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.'' "Casillas caught the defendant in a mistake, but it was not one that hurt her,'' Barrett concluded. Three of Barrett's fellow 7th Circuit judges disagreed. "It is a fair inference from Casillass complaint that Madison's omissions at a minimum put her in imminent risk of losing the many protections in the act that are designed to regulate the debtcollection process as it goes forward,'' they wrote in a dissenting opinion. Barrett's ruling could affect many others, Buchanan says, making "it more difficult for people to protect themselves against abusive debt collection practices.'' Health care In her writings, Barrett has been critical of the reasoning that led Chief Justice John Roberts to cast a pivotal vote preserving the Affordable Care Act. And just two years after the act passed, she signed a petition against the law's provision stating employers should cover birth control in their insurance offerings. Now, one week after Election Day, the Affordable Care Act will once again be before the justices, and if appointed to the court, Barrett "might well join a majority to basically strike down whats left of the ACA,'' Tobias says. "Not only would this mean people would have their health insurance ripped from them,'' Buchanan says, "but insurers could once again charge women more just for being a woman, which could cost women $1 billion more annually than men." Unions and dues The funding of unions may also be among the issues Barrett decides as a member of the nation's highest court. In June 2018, the Supreme Court decided 5-4 that public sector workers did not have to pay the fees that fund the work of their collective bargaining units, on the grounds that such mandatory payments violated workers' First Amendment rights. Justice Samuel Alito Jr., who wrote the majority opinion "signaled hes willing to consider that same rule for private-sector unions,'' Conti says, "and I certainly worry about where Judge Barrett would come down on that issue . This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Amy Coney Barrett on SCOTUS could affect workplace protections The historical plaque for the Cobourg and Peterborough Railway at the Harwood dock on the south shore of Rice Lake was among objects vandalized with racist graffiti that was discovered on Sunday. Northumberland OPP are investigating after the vandalism was reported on Sunday at the dock, located at Railway Road and Front Street in Hamilton Township. Black spray paint was used to deface the plaque. A rock at the west side of the pier was painted with a swastika symbol and the letters KKK and a no parking sign and the Harwood dock sign were also defaced with black spray paint, police said. The detachments hate crimes officer has been notified, police said. Anyone with information about the vandalism can call the detachment through the non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, or online at stopcrimehere.ca The Cobourg and Peterborough Railway line ran over Rice Lake on a large trestle bridge that opened in 1854. The bridge collapsed in 1861. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 The education ministry released guidelines on Monday for the reopening of schools, including for a thorough cleaning and disinfection of the premises, flexibility in attendance, no assessment for up to three weeks and ensuring a smooth transition from home-based schooling during the coronavirus-induced lockdown to formal schooling. It also asked the states and Union territories to frame their own standard operating procedures (SOPs) for health and safety precautions, based on their local requirements. 'Schools must arrange and implement for thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all areas, furniture, equipment, stationery, storage places, water tanks, kitchens, canteens, washrooms, laboratories, libraries on school campuses and ensure air flow in an indoor space,' the ministry said in a set of guidelines for a gradual reopening of schools from October 15. 'Schools may be encouraged to make their own SOPs based on the guidelines issued by states and UTs, keeping in view the safety and physical or social-distancing norms, and ensuring that the notices, posters, messages, communication to parents in this regard are prominently displayed and disseminated,' it said. The ministry recommended that the schools adopt flexible attendance and sick leave policies. 'Flexible attendance and sick leave policies may be developed and implemented to encourage students and staff to stay at home when sick. 'Students may attend schools only with the written consent of parents. Students may opt for online classes rather than physically attend school. 'There shall be no assessment up to 2-3 weeks of school reopening and use of ICT and online learning shall continue to be encouraged,' it said. Universities and schools across the country were ordered shut on March 16 to contain the spread of the coronavirus. On March 25, the Centre announced a nationwide lockdown. While several restrictions have been eased gradually in different phases of the 'unlock' since June 8, educational institutions continue to remain closed. However, according to the latest unlock guidelines, schools, colleges and other educational institutions can reopen outside the COVID-19 containment zones after October 15. The decision on reopening the institutions has been left with the states and Union territories. 'Schools should ensure smooth transition of students from home-based schooling during lockdown to formal schooling. Schools can implement re-adjusted school calendar and redesigned Annual Curriculum Plan (ACP), remedial classes or conduct back-to-school campaign among other steps,' the guidelines said. The schools have been advised to form task teams such as emergency care support and response teams, general support teams for all stakeholders, commodity support teams, hygiene inspection teams, among others, with earmarked responsibilities. 'Physical distancing and social distancing should be ensured while planning the seating plan, functions and events should be avoided. There should be staggered entry and exit timings, points of schools and time table. 'All students and staff should arrive at school wearing a face cover or mask and continue wearing it all through, especially when in class, or doing any activity in groups, such as eating in the mess, working in the laboratories or reading in the libraries. 'Schools should plan for academic calendar changes for all classes, particularly in relation to breaks and exams. 'Ensure all students have access to prescribed textbooks before school reopens. Ensure availability in school or at contactable distance full-time trained healthcare attendant, nurse, doctor and counsellor to take care of physical and mental health of the students. 'Regular health check-up of students and teachers may be organised,' the guidelines said. An Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation discovery could pave the way for therapies to reverse vision loss common in premature infants and adults. In a new study appearing in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, OMRF scientists have identified a compound that could give birth to therapies for a host of eye diseases that include retinopathy of prematurity and diabetic retinopathy. "Potentially, even patients with advanced disease progression could see their fortunes turned around," said Courtney Griffin, Ph.D., the senior author of the study. Several eye disorders occur when blood vessels grow out of control in the retina, the tissue that lines the back of the eye. In these forms of retinopathy, a web of vessels blocks light from reaching the retina, which is how we see. The overgrowth causes vision issues that can advance to total blindness. Retinopathy in premature babies -- linked to high oxygen levels in NICU incubators that interrupts normal vessel development in the eye -- often resolves naturally over time. But not always. In those cases, and in adult diseases like diabetic retinopathy, vision damage can be irreversible. Griffin and Chris Schafer, Ph.D., study the development of blood vessels. Schafer, a postdoctoral researcher, thought there might be clues to thinning this tangle of vessels if they analyzed a different set of vessels that naturally regress and disappear in mice soon after birth. When they studied newborn mice, the OMRF researchers found that levels of a specific class of cellular proteins crashed as the mice experienced normal blood vessel loss in the eye. "Dr. Schafer hypothesized that these cellular proteins might be an important 'off switch' to eliminate these vessels in a neonatal model," said Griffin, who holds the Scott Zarrow Chair in Biomedical Research at OMRF. "This is a new way of approaching these diseases. The current methods -- invasive surgeries or life-long injections into the eye -- only prevent the disease from advancing and often have serious complications." Schafer identified an experimental compound that disables the proteins. It allowed him to flip the switch and test the idea. "We wanted to trick blood vessels in diseased mice into thinking they were supposed to be regressing and naturally dying off," said Schafer. "This appears to be what happened." Even more encouraging, Griffin said, the compound only impacted abnormal blood vessels with slow blood flow. The normal vessels needed in a healthy eye were spared. The findings open the door to tailored therapies to reverse vision loss. It may also have implications in shrinking tumors that contain abnormal blood vessels in other parts of the body. "We've shown that once these abnormal vessels have formed in the young eye, they're susceptible to being treated," said Griffin. The research team will now study the compound in models of adult eye diseases. "More research is needed, but this could be a major advance in treatment for vision loss in patients of all ages," Griffin said. ### Done in collaboration with scientists from the Dean McGee Eye Institute, the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and the University of South Florida, the work was supported by National Institutes of Health grants P30EY021725, P30GM114731 and R35HL144605, as well as funding from the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) and Research to Prevent Blindness. About OMRF OMRF (omrf.org) is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institute dedicated to understanding and developing more effective treatments for human diseases. Its scientists focus on such critical research areas as cancer, diseases of aging, lupus and cardiovascular disease. Photo: (Photo : Katie Autry Photography (Facebook Page)) A Nebraska couple celebrating their 60th-anniversary reveals the secret to a long-lasting marriage. The two recently posed for photos wearing the same wedding attire they wore during their wedding 60 years ago. Katie Autry photographed couple Marvin and Lucille Stone. The photos were shared on Facebook, and the Nebraska couple's story inspires many netizens. Aside from the stunning photos, the Nebraska couple also shared their secret to a long-lasting marriage. READ ALSO: Newlywed Ohio Couple Donates Reception Food to a Shelter Celebrating their 60th anniversary Last August, Katie Autry shared on her page the photos of the couple. She was hired to take the anniversary photos of the couple. What makes the photos unique was not just the celebration of Marvin and Lucille's love but also the witty idea of wearing the same attire they wore 60 years ago. Autry even shared in the Facebook post that the wedding dress Lucille wore was made by herself. The Nebraska couple happily posed for the photos. The photographer said that she felt that it was an honor to be the person who captured the new memories that the couple created. She also said, "What an amazing example these two are of true love standing the test of time." READ ALSO: Fostering Since 1983, Couple from England Became Foster Parents to 186 Children The secret to a long-lasting relationship It is known to everyone that marriage is a complicated relationship. It is not a secret that there are times when marriages fail and end up in divorce. That is why the Nebraska couple's sixty years of marriage is a milestone. In the Facebook post of the photographer Autry, she shared the couple's advice to other married couples. There were five pieces of advice that Marvin and Lucille shared. The first is to work hard, and the second is to be kind to one another. Also, the couple shared that couples should first think before they speak. The Nebraska couple also believes that every husband and wife should rely on their strengths to overcome each other's weaknesses. Lastly, they advise couples to stay strong in their faith. READ ALSO: Family Costume Ideas Inspired by Celebrities The viral photos The viral photos of the Nebraska couple were a hit online. As of writing, the set of images have been shared more than 3,000 times. Many netizens are also amazed by the kind of relationship that Marvin and Lucille managed to keep together. Some netizens sent their greetings to the couple. Others shared their aspirations to do the same kind of photoshoot with their partners when they celebrate their 60th anniversary. The photos of the couple also inspired a lot. READ ALSO: World's Oldest Couple Secretly Got Married in 1941 Photo: (Photo : Andreas Wohlfahrt from Pexels) The court orders a 10-month-old Texas baby removed from life support at the Texas Children's hospital. According to reports, the judge on the case did not grant the parents' request for a temporary injunction. This decision gave the authority to the Texas Children's Hospital to remove the 10-month-old Texas baby, Nick Torres, from his life support. The Texas baby's initial condition In a report by the Click2Houston, the Texas baby's family's attorney shared that the 10-month-old baby boy was brought to the Texas Children's Hospital after becoming unresponsive and unconscious at home. On September 24, Nick was given a bath by one of his parents. When they came back after getting a towel, the baby was already unconscious. When he was brought to the Texas Children's Hospital, the staff informed the family that nothing can be done for the 10-month-old Texas baby and that he has to be removed from his life support. The Texas baby is brain dead. After several tests, doctors said that Nick's brain is already dead. Aside from this, a doctor from Texas Children's Hospital also informed the family that his kidneys and lungs are no longer functioning. On September 30, Nick was officially announced dead. That is after his second brain death examination was conducted. According to health officials in the hospital, the 10-month old baby's heart would stop when the ventilator is taken off. They added that there is no possible health care that could be provided to Nick. READ ALSO: How to Prepare Your Pets for a Newborn Baby The family is still hopeful. Despite the doctor's advice, the family remains hopeful that their son has a chance to live. The parents of the Texas baby argues that the due process has been violated. For the family, the decision on what is best for their child should rely on them. During the hearing, the family presented cases of other babies that recovered while on a ventilator. However, during the court hearing, the hospital said they have already done everything they could for the 10-month-old baby. READ ALSO: Newborn Baby in Virginia Has No Immune System The court's decision In a report by Click2Houston, the judge in the case was quoted saying, "I am a mother and my heart goes out to you. Unfortunately, I'm the judge that has to rule on this. And the law is clear. I must deny your temporary injunction." The family was not given the temporary injunction because of what the law states. READ ALSO: Heartwarming Dad and Son Reunion After Utah Amber Alert The Texas Law A Texas law states that if health experts believe that sustaining treatment is no longer necessary. Still, if the family disagrees, then the issue should be taken to the hospital's ethics committee. If the committee agrees with the doctor, then the 10-day rule should be used. The 10-day law allows families to find a new hospital for their child. The court may grant an extension. However, if the court does not do so, then the treatment can be withdrawn. READ ALSO: Parents Test Toddlers in a New TikTok Challenge Most Results Were Heartwarming This week marks the launch of Fort Bend Countys year-long Diversity Over Division initiative an effort by local leaders to promote inclusiveness and social justice through art and education. Our goal is to celebrate our diversity, said County Judge KP George, whose office spearheaded the initiative. Fort Bend County is, if not the number one, then one of the most diverse counties in the country. We live in harmony. On HoustonChronicle.com: Highway 36A Coalition mulls new freight shuttle system George made his remarks at a news conference at the University of Houston-Sugar Land. The initiative was launched in partnership with U of H, the Fort Bend County Libraries system and numerous community leaders. Weve been in discussions about how UH can collaborate with the community, said Jay Neal , associate vice president and chief operating officer for UH at Sugar Land . Looking at the diversity of our student body, the diversity of our community fits hands in glove. Its a national space for us to be in, we want the University of Houston to be the communitys university. On HoustonChronicle.com: Health expert shares tips for socially distanced Halloween festivities Houston Poet Laureate Deborah D.E.E.P Mouton recited a poem at the news conference, choosing Mother Emanuel, which was written right after the Charleston church shooting in June 2015. The initiative also includes the installation of a mural on the Albert and Mamie George Building at UH. Houston-based artist Reginald Adams will collaborate seven artists from seven different parts of the world, all residing in Houston, to create the mural. The actual artwork will not be completed until the end of the year, Adams said. The artists will represent India, Africa, Mexico, Brazil, Israel, Philippines and the United States. Diversity over Division started in August as a fundraising campaign to raise awareness about racial injustice in the wake of George Floyds death. The initiatives official launch comes a week after the passage of President Donald Trumps new executive order, which directs agencies with government contracts to dismantle diversity training programs. We wanted to send this message throughout the country you all can live together, things dont have to be the way they are right now, said George. Over centuries, art and poems have been one of the best ways of communication, to bring people together. We want to show there is no place for hate in Fort Bend County. juhi.varma@hcnonline.com Season 21 of Little People, Big World shows Amy Roloffs difficulties with moving off of Roloff Farms. While she has a new home shes moving into, the show displays her uncertainty regarding selling her half of Roloff Farms to ex-husband Matt Roloff. And it seems Matts girlfriend, Caryn Chandler, feels caught in the middle of it all. Heres what Caryn said about Matts plight being totally unfair to her and their relationship. Amy Roloff struggled with quickly moving off of Roloff Farms in Little People, Big World Amy Roloff and Matt Roloff appear on NBC News Today show | Peter Kramer/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images RELATED: LPBW: Amy Roloff Is No Longer Concerned With How Her Divorce From Matt Roloff Affects Her Kids Matt and Amy divorced after decades of marriage, and they both remained on separate sides of Roloff Farms for years. Now, we know Amys all moved into her new home off the farm, but were watching the process unfold on LPBW. While Matts attempting to make a deal with her in regards to purchasing her half of the property, Amy still needs time to mull it over, as its an emotional decision for her. I dont think hes allowing enough time for this kind of deal to go through, Amy explained to the cameras. For me, a few weeks to sell a big chunk of real estate and a business that we started together, I have to push the emotion part of that out. But its hard for me to do that. Despite Amy wanting time, Matt wanted to hurry the process along. And their son, Zach Roloff, also mentioned he thinks Amy should move off of the farm, as its unhealthy for her to continue living there. Caryn Chandler thinks aspects of Matt Roloffs relationship with Amy and the farm are unfair Everyone Thinks Matt Roloff and His Girlfriend Caryn Chandler Broke Up https://t.co/pV2Oti9Q6S pic.twitter.com/OW1f8OiCg4 Good Housekeeping (@goodhousemag) May 15, 2018 While Matt and Amy bicker over whats going on with the farm, Caryns stuck in the middle. She has a complicated relationship with Amy, as Amy wrote in her memoir, A Little Me, that Matt was acting inappropriately during his marriage with the Roloff Farms manager (presumed to be Caryn). All in all, Caryn is in favor of Amy getting off of the farm property as quickly as possible. TLC posted a clip of Matt and Caryn talking about Amys big move. And Caryn didnt appear too happy when Matt explained Amy still has a ways to go before shes off Roloff Farms completely. Its no surprise that Matt will end up managing whatever has to be done, and I have no problem with that, Caryn said. I just not to add another layer on to it. It already is so much of the farm, and we go to Arizona, and it kind of takes away from our stuff, which is OK. But, to keep adding to it, it just doesnt seem fair to me. At the end of the clip, Caryn then admits that sometimes it feels like Matt is still married to Amy. Fans seem to be on Amys side Matt Roloff and Girlfriend Caryn Chandler Head out on Romantic Arizona Vacationhttps://t.co/uXdFfdgkjR pic.twitter.com/ohJCKjyF9m PopCulture.com (@PopCulture) September 16, 2018 While Caryn understandably wants the Amy saga to end, it seems fans think she needs to step aside and allow Amy to have as much time to process the move off of Roloff Farms as possible. I think that its none of Caryns business! one fan commented on the TLC video. Only Matt and Amy should be talking and making decisions. Matt should leave her in Arizona until every thing is done. Amy has to take her time, another mentioned. She will move on when she feels its time. I honestly feel like Caryn just cant wait to get her hands on that farm, another follower noted. She says she doesnt want the big house but i think she is full of it!! We know Amy eventually left Roloff Farms and is happy in her new home. But were interested to hear all of the details as this season of LPBW continues. Check out Showbiz Cheat Sheet on Facebook! Lady Cobham has called on Ministers to intervene after the US owner of defence giant Cobham launched a major break-up of the 4billion British firm. City sources said private equity firm Advent had quietly sold off Cobham's shareholding in a Royal Air Force refuelling company and appointed heavyweight bankers to sell its antenna manufacturing unit for 770million. Cobham is understood to have offloaded its 13 per cent stake in AirTanker which provides the RAF with air transport and air-to-air refuelling services to investors including Rolls-Royce, Airbus, Babcock International and Thales. City sources said private equity firm Advent had quietly sold off Cobham's shareholding in a Royal Air Force refuelling company Separately, investment bankers from Goldman Sachs and NM Rothschild have been appointed to find a buyer for Cobham Aerospace Connectivity. The division employs about 750 people, many in the UK, and makes antenna systems and radio guidance equipment. If the deal completes it would mark the first major sale agreed by Advent after the Boston-based firm bought Cobham in January. Advent's takeover bid was met with fierce resistance from MPs and members of the founding family of the business. At the time, Lady Cobham the widow of Sir Michael Cobham, who built the firm over 25 years argued that it put Britain's national security at risk as the firm harbours military secrets. She warned that Advent 'will break up Cobham and sell off its parts to the highest bidder' and called for the deal to be stopped by the Government. However, the sale was given the nod under conditions set out by then-Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom including the obligation to keep Cobham's communications business in the UK. Last night, Lady Cobham told The Mail on Sunday: 'I am concerned about the obligations Advent had to give to the Government. This is typical private equity behaviour, but they are constrained by serious legal obligations they gave to the Secretary of State. 'They [Advent] said they would maintain technological expertise in the UK, maintaining headquarters in the UK, and various other obligations. If the potential takeover [of Cobham Aerospace Connectivity] is widened out to international takeovers there is a clear problem with the obligations Advent gave to the Government.' Lady Cobham the widow of Sir Michael Cobham, who built the firm over 25 years has called on Ministers to intervene Other legal undertakings by Advent included notifying the Ministry of Defence of plans to sell Cobham or any of its businesses, ensuring Government information continues to be protected and telling the Government if there is a material change to key suppliers. Cobham is one of Britain's biggest defence and aerospace businesses, employing about 10,000 staff globally, including almost 1,800 in the UK. The company was formerly listed on the FTSE 250 index. Its refuelling technology remains cutting edge and is used to refuel most of the West's fighter jets while airborne. The company also plays a role in rehearsals to test the RAF's readiness. At the time of the takeover Shonnel Malani, a partner at Advent, said: 'Advent takes its custodianship of Cobham seriously and we are confident the transaction and undertakings being given on national security, jobs and future investment provide important long-term assurances for both Cobham's employees and customers.' But less than ten months after completing its deal Advent has begun breaking up Cobham, raising fears that another foreign predator could buy parts of the company. Earlier this year The Mail on Sunday revealed the buy-out firm had split Cobham into nine divisions, each with their own board, which bankers said would make it easier for Advent to sell off the company piece by piece. Lady Cobham added: 'The Tetra project [a system for communication between energency services], for example, is not meant to leave this country, and the antenna business is involved in covert surveillance. It is absolutely crucial for national security. The buyer needs to maintain the security of the businesses involved.' Ed Miliband, the Shadow Business Secretary and former Labour party leader, said: 'The Government has powers to act in acquisitions which raise issues of national security, but instead, this deal was waved through with weak assurances and now the Government is silent on the matter. The industrial strategy isn't worth the paper it's written on if Ministers fail to protect businesses in industries of strategic importance for our economy.' A spokesman for Advent declined to comment. A Government spokesman said: The Government remains in regular contact with Cobham. Turkish drilling ship returns from Cyprus Yavuz in Ankara's waters, sign of detente with Nicosia (ANSAmed) - ISTANBUL, 05 OTT - The Turkish drilling ship Yavuz has reportedly returned to Ankara's territorial waters from the eastern Mediterranean off Cyprus where it had been deployed in controversial explorations to search for hydrocarbons deemed illegal by Nicosia because they were carried our in its exclusive economic zone. The report was published by specialized navigation website Vessel Finder. The move could indicate a detente with Cyprus after relations recently improved with Greece. The Yavuz started its activity off the island in July 2019. The Turkish boat Barbaros Hayreddin Pascia for the time being remains in the eastern Mediterranean south-east of Cyprus. The boat's activities of energy exploration are scheduled until October 18. (ANSAmed). "We knew that for many students and their families, going from a structured classroom setting to learning from home was going to be a very big challenge," said Gwen Perea Warniment, the state's deputy secretary of teaching, learning and assessment. "It makes perfect sense that some families needed help during this transition and, with the extension of this program, we are excited to be able to provide this help to anyone who needs it." The ENGAGE New Mexico program is a partnership between New Mexico's Public Education Department and Graduation Alliance, an organization that provides academic and social-emotional support to help create equitable learning experiences for students who might otherwise struggle in school. Perea Warniment noted that the students who were provided with this support in the spring were significantly more likely to succeed after schools were rapidly closed during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program's continuation provides critical support for the implementation of New Mexico's Attendance for Success Act, which was passed by the state Legislature in the spring of 2019. "There is no way our legislators could have predicted this crisis, but they understood the need for compassionate support for families who are struggling with attendance," said Katarina Sandoval, the state's deputy secretary of academic engagement and student success. "That vision has proven prescient, and we need that sort of compassion now more than ever before." Education Secretary Ryan Stewart said the program is a good example of the ways in which state resources can be used to support local school districts. "To meet this moment, schools are having to make radical changes changes that completely alter what school looks like," Stewart said. "It would be wrong to expect districts to take on this challenge alone." Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham said she is pleased that New Mexico has taken a national leadership role in providing this kind of support. "Our state has made a long-term commitment to close the equity gap and protect our most vulnerable children," she said. "Right now, however, it is important to recognize the fact that this crisis has made many more students vulnerable. We've got a lot of work to do. And this kind of initiative is an essential step in the right direction." Any family looking for additional support for their students during this school year can sign up directly at https://ParentsNM.GraduationAlliance.com. SOURCE Graduation Alliance Related Links https://www.graduationalliance.com Cal/OSHA Fines Los Angeles Grocery Stores for Coronavirus Violations The five grocery stores were fined a total of $104,308 for putting workers at risk for contracting coronavirus. Cal/OSHA fined five grocery stores in the Los Angeles area on October 1 for failing to protect workers from exposure to COVID-19, according to Business Insurance. The stores were fined amounts between $13,500 and $25,560. Each of the five grocery stores is owned by Kroger Co., which is based in Ohio. Some stores failed to adhere to store capacity limits, which did not allow workers to socially distance. Two stores failed to report a fatal COVID-19 case to Cal/OSHA, and two other locations failed to provide proper training on how to avoid infection as well as properly disinfect the stores. At least two of the grocery stores were cited for not installing barriers to protect workers during interaction with customers. More information on Cal/OSHAs COVID-19 guidelines can be found at dir.ca.gov. Chancellor Rishi Sunak has been urged to slash and simplify taxes in order to stimulate the UK economy and boost the nation's recovery from the coronavirus crisis. A new report and open letter sent to the Chancellor by the Institute of Economic Affairs think tank (IEA) suggests Mr Sunak should learn the lessons from recent history to get Britain back on its feet. The report points to the policies which were in place during the period between 1993 and 2003 - a decade of high productivity growth and national income growth - and urges Mr Sunak to adopt them now. Key policies include capping the top rate of income tax at 40 per cent, reducing VAT to 17.5 per cent and putting a ceiling on stamp duty at four per cent. The Institute of Economic Affairs think tank is urging Chancellor Rishi Sunak to slash and simplify taxes in order to boost the UK's recovery from the coronavirus crisis Government coffers were bolstered between 1993 and 2003 as real public sector revenue grew by an average of 4.3 per cent per year - this meant government income increased by 51 per cent in just 10 years Government revenue was also running above expenditure for a brief period at the end of the 1990s meaning Whitehall was running at a surplus What tax policies were in place in 1993 and what was the impact on the UK economy? In 1993/94 the income tax system was divided into three rates as it is now but the rates were different. The lower rate was set at 20 per cent, the basic rate at 25 per cent and the higher rate at 40 per cent. The basic rate was then reduced in the following years to 24 per cent, 23 per cent and then 22 per cent where it stayed until the tax system was overhauled in 2008/09 when the basic rate was set at 20 per cent and the higher rate stayed at 40 per cent. An additional rate was then introduced in 2010/11, bringing in a 50 per cent top rate of tax which was reduced to 45 per cent in 2013/14. The VAT rate was also lower in 1993 at 17.5 per cent. It stayed there until 2009/10 when it went down to 15 per cent for one year before then rising to 17.5 per cent and then 20 per cent where it is now. Economic markers from the 1993/2003 period suggest the UK economy was in good health. UK public sector debt as a percentage of GDP hovered between 30 and 40 per cent. It is now above 100 per cent. Government revenue was also running above expenditure for a brief period at the end of the 1990s meaning Whitehall was running at a surplus. Government coffers were bolstered over the decade as real public sector revenue grew by an average of 4.3 per cent per year - this meant government income increased by 51 per cent in just 10 years. There was also a surge in house prices over the decade, growing from an average of about 55,000 in 1993 to 125,000 by 2003. Advertisement The IEA open letter, signed by 30 economists, academics, business people and politicians, comes less than two weeks after Mr Sunak unveiled his Winter Economy Plan. The IEA report, 'The Chancellor's Post-Pandemic Choices', which accompanies the letter highlights the policies that were in place during recent boom periods in the UK. It argues that Mr Sunak's rescue plan for the British economy should mimic some of the measures which were in place in the mid to late 1990s and early 2000s. The report states that policies like lower rates of income tax have a 'proven track record'. However, it calls on Mr Sunak to go further than his predecessors in Number 11 as it argues that even in boom periods the UK tax system has been 'too complex, too distortionary, and not sufficiently investment-friendly'. 'We need major tax simplification, and a shift in the burden of taxation from more distortionary to less distortionary taxes,' it says. In the open letter to Mr Sunak, the IEA said: 'Governments have choices. This Government may not choose to adopt some or any of these successful policies. 'At the very least, however, this evidence should weigh heavily on any decision-making.' Neil Record, chairman of the IEA and author of the report, said Mr Sunak should 'recreate that success' from recent history in order to repair the 'terrible damage wrought on the economy' by coronavirus. 'Economists have had a poor recent track record of forecasting,' he said. 'So rather than building yet another model of the economy to help guide advice to the Chancellor, I have looked back at periods of UK economic success and growth within the past 40 years. 'I have identified the best decades within that period, and analysed the taxation, fiscal and regulatory policies that helped create those successful periods. 'If decisions made now can recreate that success, then despite the terrible damage wrought on the economy by Covid-19, the future can be bright.' EDMONTON, AB, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Alberta Investment Management Corporation (AIMCo) announces the appointment of Mr. Robert (Bob) P. Kelly as a member of the board of directors for a term set to expire on September 29, 2023. This announcement follows the signing of the Order in Council, O.C. 286/2020, by the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta on September 30, 2020. The Order also reappoints Ms. Sharon Sallows as a member of the board of directors for a term set to expire on October 20, 2023. Ms. Sallows has been a member of AIMCo's Board since October 21, 2017. "We are privileged to have the depth of experience and talent that Ms. Sallows and Mr. Kelly bring to our board of directors," said Mark Wiseman, AIMCo Board Chair. "It's imperative that we have accomplished and knowledgeable voices such as theirs helping to guide AIMCo as we invest to secure a prosperous future for all Albertans." Biographical Notes Robert (Bob) P. Kelly was Chairman and CEO of The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation until 2011. Prior to that, he was Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Mellon Bank Corporation, Chief Financial Officer of Wachovia Corporation, and Vice-Chairman of Toronto-Dominion Bank. Mr. Kelly is currently serves as Lead Independent Director of IHS Markit. He was previously the chairperson of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation from 2012 until March 2018 and the chairman of the board of directors of Santander Asset Management from 2012 until December 2017. Mr. Kelly has served as Chancellor of Saint Mary's University in Canada, was a former member of the boards of the Financial Services Forum, Federal Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Board, Financial Services Roundtable, Trilateral Commission (North American Group), and Institute of International Finance, and was a former member of the board of trustees of St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, and the Art Gallery of Ontario. Mr. Kelly holds a B.Comm. from Saint Mary's University and an MBA from the Cass Business School, City University, London, United Kingdom, and is a CPA, Chartered Accountant and Fellow Chartered Accountant. Mr. Kelly has been awarded honorary doctorates from City University and Saint Mary's University. Sharon Sallows is a professional director with significant public and private company experience. Ms. Sallows currently serves as a director of Home Capital Group Inc and chairs its Human Resources and Compensation Committee. She is also a trustee of RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust and Chartwell Retirement Communities. Previous directorships include Ontario Teachers Pension Plan, USA REIT, Executive Risk Services and Maple Mortgage Trust. Previously, Ms. Sallows was a principal in Ryegate Capital Corporation, a company engaged in the provision of merchant banking and advisory services to institutional and corporate clients. Ms. Sallows is a former Executive Vice-President of MICC Properties Inc. and, prior to that, held various positions at the Bank of Montreal including Senior Vice-President, Real Estate, Corporate Banking. Ms. Sallows received a BA from Carleton University, an M.Sc. from the London School of Economics, a PhD from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and is a holder of the Institute of Corporate Directors Director designation. About Alberta Investment Management Corporation AIMCo is one of Canada's largest and most diversified institutional investment managers with more than $115 billion of assets under management. AIMCo was established on January 1, 2008 with a mandate to provide superior long-term investment results for its clients. AIMCo operates at arms-length from the Government of Alberta and invests globally on behalf of 31 pension, endowment and government funds in the Province of Alberta. For more information on AIMCo please visit www.aimco.ca. SOURCE Alberta Investment Management Corporation Related Links www.aimco.ca. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bogdan Aurescu, received on Monday Laurence Auer, the agreed ambassador of the French Republic in Bucharest, in order to present the copies of her credentials. According to the Foreign Ministry, Aurescu welcomed the new ambassador to Romania and wisher her success in fulfilling her mandate, which begins, symbolically, in the year in which 140 years of bilateral diplomatic relations are celebrated.The minister welcomed the "excellent" stage of the relationship between Romania and France, defined by a "solid" Strategic Partnership and which offers numerous opportunities for in-depth cooperation.Bogdan Aurescu mentioned the common interest of the two parties to update the Strategic Partnership Roadmap, with the aim of giving a higher level of ambition to Romanian-French cooperation both bilaterally and European or internationally, the Foreign Ministry informed.He expressed confidence that the mandate of the new ambassador will be marked by an upward dynamic of Romanian-French relations, based both on the affinities and special ties between the two states, and on close cooperation in many matters of common interest.Minister Aurescu recalled the interest of the Romanian side to resume the dialogue in 2 + 2 format at ministerial level (foreign affairs and defence), appreciating that this represents a good opportunity to strengthen the bilateral Strategic Partnership and to deepen the topics of common interest in security and defence.The head of Romanian diplomacy also welcomed the cultural cooperation, recalling the success of the Romania-France Season and welcoming Auer's direct involvement in this "unprecedented" public diplomacy project.The agreed Ambassador Laurence Auer thanked for the reception and welcomed, in her turn, the very good level of the Romanian-French relations, indicated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. She expressed her full readiness to contribute to the development and deepening of the bilateral Strategic Partnership in all areas during her term of office, building on the traditional relations between the two countries, historical, linguistic and cultural ties, and converging interests on many topics of common interest.Auer highlighted the desire to strengthen cooperation at European level, including the prospect of France taking over the Presidency of the EU Council in the second half of 2021. Why 2020 is so important By Scot Faulkner Anyone still doubting what will happen if the Democrats take the White House and the Senate this November needs to look at what happened this year in Virginia. In November 2019, Democrats won the governorship and control of both houses of the state legislature for the first time since 1993. While they had a 10-seat majority in the House of Delegates, their margin in the State Senate was a razor-thin two seats. As 2020 dawned, the newly sworn-in Democrats moved with lightning speed on a broad legislative front. It was a relentless Leftist Juggernaut. During the 60-day legislative session, Democrats passed 1,900 bills. The governor signed every one of them into law. Nearly every Leftist dream came true. First they eviscerated gun rights. The gun control bills were so groundbreaking that Governor Ralph Northam held a special signing ceremony. The bills expanded background checks to include private sales, created severe penalties for leaving firearms near children, including inside a private home, and limited handgun sales to one a month. They also created laws that will let anyone red flag others as being a threat to public safety and having their guns confiscated. More importantly, as Virginia is a commonwealth, other new laws empowered local governments to regulate the possession, carrying, storage or transport of firearms, ammunition, components or any combination of those things, and to ban guns in public spaces, including public buildings, parks and recreation centers, and during permitted events. Local governments are even authorized to establish stricter gun control laws than exist at the federal and state level. The Democrats and Northam ignored the reality that gun-free zones ensure that only law-ignoring criminals will be armed in public places giving killers time to maim and murder numerous law-abiding, innocent parents and children before police arrive. The Democrats did nothing to increase penalties for using guns in committing crimes. A second wave assailed Virginia history and culture. Lee-Jackson Day was eliminated as a state holiday. All protections for Confederate monuments ended, even for soldiers who died during the Civil War. Then came social legislation. The Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) was ratified decades after its ratification deadline, providing the 38th state needed for final adoption, though court challenges may thwart attempts to force the ERA into the Constitution. The Virginia Values Act added sexual orientation and gender identity to all Virginia anti-discrimination laws. It grants the attorney general the power to take action against anyone engaged in a pattern or practice of resistance to rights guaranteed by the new laws. Abortion rights were dramatically expanded. New laws rolled back existing provisions, eliminated the 24-hour waiting period before an abortion, ended a requirement that women seeking an abortion undergo counseling and an ultrasound, eliminated the requirement that abortions be provided by a physician, allowing nurse practitioners to perform them, and abolished building code requirements on facilities where abortions are performed. Virginias felony larceny threshold was raised from $500 to $1,000. Sponsors stated this will lead to fewer Virginians with felony convictions on their records. Possession of marijuana was decriminalized and replaced with a $25 civil penalty. The minimum wage went to $9.50 per hour. This will increase to $11 in 2022, $12 in 2023 and by another $1.50 in 2025 and 2026. The increases will likely cost thousands of jobs. Virginia also increased its gasoline tax 5 cents a year for two consecutive years, while electric cars will continue getting subsidies, free use of highways and free access to HOV lanes. The Democrats also established a new tax on plastic bags just before businesses of every description began requiring them to prevent the spread of COVID from reusable bags. They also imposed the Virginia Clean Economy Act, which will cover seascapes with hundreds of 850-foot-tall wind turbines and landscapes with hundreds of square miles of solar panels, backed up by thousands of half-ton batteries all built with raw materials from China. Finally, they changed the rules for voting. Virginians no longer need to show a photo ID to vote, and no longer need to provide a reason for wanting an absentee ballot. Virginia also became part of the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, awarding the states electoral votes to the national winner of the presidential popular vote, instead of the states own popular vote. Democrats have an even longer wish list at the national level: a Green New Deal that would replace all fossil fuels with wind, solar, biofuel and battery power; higher taxes; higher minimum wages; national gun control measures; and more. They are invoking racism and advancing the 1619 Project, which asserts America is a slave nation, to promote reparations and other laws that will eliminate America as we know it. The Left wants to erase freedom of speech in favor of woke sensibilities and political correctness and, of course, erase the right to bear arms and protect ourselves and our families from rampant, growing violence. The biggest national movement of all is ending systemic, institutional racism and white privilege. But they also want to eliminate the Electoral College, make U.S. Senate seats based on population, grant statehood to the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and pack the Supreme Court. Every one of these reforms is designed to solidify the Lefts power forever. The only thing standing in the way of Democrats recreating the Virginia Juggernaut at the national level is the U.S. Senates filibuster. Thats why they are already crusading to end the filibuster. Even though it has been integral to the Senate since its founding, it is being portrayed as a recent racist manifestation. The filibuster is the only protection for minority rights in Congress. Up to now, both parties have embraced it, as they know one day they may be out of power and need it. The Left is banking on the November election giving them eternal power. What happened in Virginia gives them profound hope that they will succeed. It should also scare every American who believes in this country to vote this year to defend our proud history, traditions, promises and opportunities. Scot Faulkner is the former Chief Administrative Officer of the U.S. House of Representatives and author of the bestselling political memoir, "Naked Emperors." Faulkner is also Vice President of the George Washington Institute of Living Ethics, and provides political commentary for ABC News Australia, Newsmax, and CitizenOversight. He previously served as Chief Administrative Officer of the U.S. House of Representatives, Director of Personnel for the Reagan Campaign, and on the Presidential Transition Team and Reagan White House Staff. He also held executive positions at the Federal Aviation Administration, General Services Administration and Peace Corps. He earned a Masters in Public Administration from American University and a BA in Government & History from Lawrence University, and studied comparative government at the London School of Economics and Georgetown University. Home First Minister still looks to England to replicate Welsh travel restrictions as legislating against named English hotspot areas the wrong way to solve problem This article is old - Published: Monday, Oct 5th, 2020 The First Minister has said Coronavirus Regulations could be used as a route to prevent those travelling to Wales from hotspots in England, but it would be the wrong way to solve the problem. Last week the First Minister Mark Drakeford said he had written to the Prime Minister making such a request to prevent travel, however that was first rejected during a Prime Minister Questions session, and then later in the week PM Johnson said he had heard the plea loud and clear but again rejected it. On Friday the First Minister spoke about the travel issue into Wales from England with it being explained it is hard to take action against the country as a whole: In England they have large areas where the position is much more difficult than Wales, but they have other areas where there are fewer cases in circulation. If you divide all the virus by all the population in England, you come with a lower figure than you do in Wales. But if you were to take the north of England, and take the areas that are closest to Wales, and the figures there are higher than Wales as a whole. Last week we pointed out if Cheshires stats were in a foreign country then a quarantine would be in place, or if it was in Wales a lockdown would be in place. The Health Minister agreed back then, You are right to point out if those counties were a different country, then there would be quarantine arrangements for people who have traveled from that country into any part of the UK. In the Coronavirus Regulations Wrexham County Borough has been added along with Flintshire County Borough and other areas that are now in localised lockdown. Llanelli has also been included, by defining several specific electoral ward areas to make up a legal definition of that local lockdown area: Other sub-areas have also been defined, for example Mykonos specifically rather than all of Greece. With a reluctance to add England to the Coronavirus Regulations for Wales, be it as a quarantine country or otherwise, we asked the First Minister about smaller individual areas being named, and what stopped that same framework being used to name lockdown areas in England in Welsh regulations. We also asked for clarity, Are you saying you cant legislate like that, or wont? The First Minister replied, There are steps we could take. So its not that we cant, I just think that that is the wrong way to solve the problem. The right way is for the Prime Minister to take responsibility and to do in England what weve done in Wales, thats my first port of call. Thats why I have written to him. You will remember that back in the summer where we had a stay local rule and people coming into Wales from England were only really able to travel five miles into Wales, and North Wales Police did a fantastic job in explaining that to people who sometimes came across our border without understanding that the rules were different here. What they always said to me was when they had those conversations, explained why those rules were in place, most people were very willing to return and to not attempt to make onward journey. So we could do it using our own powers and our own regulations, but I think the better way is for England to replicate the position we have here in Wales. Top border pic: Holt and Farndon, Wrexham and Cheshire, Wales and England. Saskatchewan schools were closed for the end of the last school year due to Covid-19, but re-opened in September under the Safe School Plan released by the Government of Saskatchewan. With each division taking the Safe School Plan and expanding on it to fit their specific school community settings, the first part of the return this fall was focussed on educating students on the new protocols and allowing for everybody to adjust to the new normal. South East Cornerstone School Division South East Cornerstone School Division Director of Education Lynn Little was happy students could finally return after six months and said everything has gone well with the students understanding the severity of the situation and the parents helping where they can. Generally speaking its gone awesome, said Little. Students and staff are pleased to be back. It looks a little different and feels a little different, but overall being back with peers and learning together and staff being with students, its awesome. Im hearing there was a great appreciation from the staff in terms of the delayed start, she said. That gave staff a lot more time to go through and make sure the health and safety plans were in place and address any necessary items so that they were ready for the students and it could be a smooth transition back in. We had the staggered starts with the students as they came back in to review the expectations and protocols with half the class at a time and to reconnect. Theyve had six months apart so this allowed them to come back and spend some time in a smaller student environment with those reconnections helping the students understand all the different procedures and processes. Its been very positive. Ive also heard from staff that theyre very supportive and appreciative of the parents, who have done a great job of helping manage traffic flow with drop offs and pickups. That was a big concern with the first week back after such a long time and it being so different, but its been really positive. Staff have said the students have also done a great job understanding the importance of the safety measures with staying home when sick, hand hygiene, physical distancing, wearing a mask. Its been outstanding so far and were very grateful for that. One thing I would stress is the school grounds, fields, and equipment are being used during the day for instruction and play, she said. Within that were using our cohorts, so the students are always in cohorts when theyre on the grounds. We want to ask that parents dont access the grounds during the school day. Theyre more than welcome to use the grounds and equipment after school hours, but for the time being during the instructional day we want that left to the students and staff. The first week was a nice way to ease back into things, says Little, with the focus being less on academics and more on all the Covid-19 related changes as well as students mental health after a stressful couple months. Our focus this week was on allowing the staff and student to reconnect while also going over protocols, she said. We called it the significant 72, meaning the first three days we were really focussed on ensuring there was an understanding of the process and bringing anxiety down about that and really focussing on mental health through the reconnection. Mental health has been a fairly large focus and will continue to be. We have some supports were putting in place and we will continue to develop programs around that. The cohorts and staggered starts have been a big benefit. Were continuing to study and see what it looks like to try and minimize the cohort movement as much as possible and the number of cohorts that children are a part of. Were also looking at utilizing a pod systemespecially at the youngest age. What were trying to do is work with children in groups of five or six and that group becomes their own pod within that cohort. Were looking at more procedures like that to help assist with the situation. Were also ensuring we listen to the chief medical health officers recommendation and wearing masks, especially with grades 9-12. The older kids are bigger and their cohorts tend to move a little more ,so distancing can be more difficult so the masks are really important. The biggest challenge early in the return process has been transportation due to the rural setting of the schools within the division and the shortage of bus drivers, Little said. Its been fairly smooth, she said. Weve certainly had challenges around transportation arrangements, just finalizing the routes and the drivers. Were working hard to rectify the situation and to meet folks needs. Sub bus drivers continue to be a challenge and I encourage folks that are interested to lend their time to support families if they can fill this role. Thats across the whole system that there are challenges there. Were working through it, but its just taking us a little more time to get it set than it typically would have taken. One of the major impacts from the Covid-19 pandemic is the increase in students opting for remote learning options and more cyber school staff being needed. This year our preliminary numbersenrolment is still occurringfor our cyber school are at 305 students which is up 246 students, she said. Previously we didnt have a K-12 program so that had an impact too. In just K-9 specifically were at just over 200 students. Thats a tremendous growth in that program. With home schooling were at 268 right now which is up 91 from June of 2020. Right now were at 7,679 students, not including cyber school and home schooling. We did expect those remote learning numbers to rise. We wanted there to be an alternative offered to families and students. We actually started by putting three and a half teachers in that area, but weve already increased the teacher load there because the numbers were hire than we anticipated. With the recent situation in Indian Headthe school had to move completely remote due to a positive caseLittle says the South East Cornerstone School Division has every option open to be able to adjust to the fluid situation and will continue to look at every option. Were working really closely with our local medical health officer and his team on procedures and next steps, she said. So if a situation were to arise, we have developed protocols to implement in the event theres been exposure or a positive case. Together well determine what our response will require. Right now were on level two of our plan and our level three plan would depend on the specific situation. If there were a community with a transmission that hasnt reached our school then wed go to the level three plan. The level three plan is a hybrid model where we cut our cohorts in half and the students would come in on alternating days for an extended period of time depending on the situation. On the days the students arent in school theyd have practice work and independent work to keep moving along. The level four plan is moving completely remote, she said. It might be for a class, multiple classes, a wing of the building, or the entire school. Its all dependent on the contact tracing and our ability to maintain cohorts. Were ensuring were ready to be able to make that move if needed because it can happen at any time. Good Spirit School Division Good Spirit School Division hasnt had any major issues early in their classroom return with most of the problems being quick fixes, says Director of Education Quintin Robertson. Its been so far, so good, said Robertson. We met with our administrators today, we meet with them every week for the first couple of months of the return to school. They indicated that the staggered re-entry went off without a hitch and were just hoping that we can continue with the positive momentum that weve started with. Theres always challenges. Some of the PPE that we procured was damaged and hand sanitizers were leaking, little things like that, but our facility department was fantastic and responded to the issues and we worked with manufacturers. Well be in continued contact with our schools to make sure that if anythings wrong, well replace it. With the uptick in students opting for online learning, Robertson says its created more space throughout schools and alleviated some of the concerns regarding school sizes with the importance of not mixing cohorts. It (school size) hasnt really been a problem, he said. We had 550 students opt for distance learning. Thats just about nine per cent of our student population and we didnt reduce our full-time equivalent staff so we have the same number of teachers, support staff, etc. in our schools. We were forced to hire a dozen or so additional staff for our virtual school, but in essence our student to teacher ratio has lowered in our schools as a result of that. Theres fewer students in our actual schools, allowing for greater distance and smaller class sizes. The online school isnt offered K-12 (in a normal school year), he said. Normally its only for our grades 10-12. We usually have about 500 credits kids earn through the digital learning school for the grades 10 through 12. This year its exploded with 550 full-time students. I would have guessed we would have been at about half of that number. We were thinking we would need about six to seven full-time equivalent staff and instead were at around 12 or 13 and we may have to go even higher depending on how the high school credits go if students want to take more through the digital learning school. Right now the staffing has been fairly well controlled, he said. If we have to go further, it will be a challenge. There isnt a great abundance of people waiting to get jobs. Anybody that was able to work has been hired and now its going to be more of a challenge for substitute teachers and people on replacement contracts. Another positive that Robertson sees coming from the situation is the timetable change allowing for students to focus in on classes with less of them over a shorter period of time. I think they (cohorts) have been well received, he said. Looking at the high school level, weve got several of our high schools that have moved towards a five block school year. Its called the penta system and their semester is about 35 days. Weve heard good feedback about that with taking two classes for 35 days vs. five classes over the course of five or six months. The recent situation in Indian Head showed just how fluid the situation is with returning to school during a pandemic, but Robertson says his division is prepared for every option after a similar scare before the school year began. As Indian Head was going through that, we were going through that, he said. We had a case in Preeceville that was reported to us last Friday evening. A staff member that had been screened and was positive enacted our traumatic events response team on Saturday morning and met with our local health officer and prepared to move to remote learning full-time for Preeceville and then a rapid reassessment was deployed. Thankfully the staff member turned out to be negative. We didnt end up having to make the decision to go fully remote, but we were ready to do it. Unfortunately we had to take the whole day working through this and it turned out to be negative, which was a good thing. It was an opportunity for us to do a dry run of our process which was good. We debriefed with our staff and our local medical health folks to look at which areas we could improve upon and maybe gain a bit more understanding of the process. We feel like weve worked through most scenarios. President Donald Trump's use of Regeneron's experimental coronavirus treatment creates "a very tough situation" for the drugmaker since it hasn't been cleared for broader use, CEO Dr. Leonard Schleifer told CNBC on Monday. The president, who announced Friday that he and first lady Melania Trump tested positive for the coronavirus, was given an 8 gram dose of Regeneron's monoclonal antibody treatment, his doctors said. The company said it provided the drug to the president in response to a "compassionate use" request from Trump's doctors, which allows for expanded access to experimental drugs for "immediately life-threatening" illnesses, according to the Food and Drug Administration. It allows patients to access an investigational drug outside of clinical trials in lieu of adequate other treatments. That means that while the president's doctors were confident enough of the drug's benefit to administer it to Trump, the treatment remains unavailable to most Americans. "We have tried to take a principled approach until there is a broader authorization," Schleifer told CNBC's Meg Tirrell on "Squawk Box." "Asking somebody like the president to go into a clinical trial just wasn't practical." Until the FDA takes a look at all the available data on the benefits and risk of the drug for Covid-19 patients, patients who want to receive the treatment should enroll in a clinical trial, Schleifer said. He added that patients in clinical trials are closely monitored so that researchers can understand how the drug affects the disease, but at least a third of patients will receive a placebo. "Giving it to [Trump] or to others who might not be able or don't qualify for clinical trials is the right use of compassionate use. That's for small numbers of people, for these exceptions," he said. "We want everybody to be potentially able to benefit. We understand we don't make that decision. This is a decision the FDA has to make." Schleifer added that he thinks the treatment meets "a lot of" the FDA's standards for an emergency authorization. But he said the company needs to continue to collect data in controlled clinical trials to better understand the treatment. But as trials continue, the virus continues to infect more than 40,000 people every day across the U.S. "This is all very complicated because it's real lives at stake" he said. "If it's my loved one or your loved one, ... yes, we want to give this if we can help them. Of course, we want to get definitive evidence, so it's a tough act to balance." Shares of the company were up more than 5% in early trading Monday. Some analysts have speculated that the use of Regeneron's antibody cocktail to treat the president is a tacit endorsement of the drug and could signal a swift approval by the FDA. Schleifer, however, tried to assure the public in the CNBC interview that the FDA has its own standards for authorization and the White House does not play a role. The class of drug has long been used to treat other infectious diseases, Schleifer said, making it a promising potential treatment for Covid-19. Other pharmaceutical firms, including Eli Lilly and GlaxoSmithKline, are also developing monoclonal antibody treatments. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh has affirmed Vietnams consistent stance on supporting all efforts towards nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. browser not support iframe. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh has affirmed Vietnams consistent stance on supporting all efforts towards nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. In his message sent to the United Nations General Assemblys High-level Meeting on October 2 (New York time) to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons (September 26), Minh highlighted the target of a nuclear weapon-free world since the world witnessed the devastations caused by atomic bombs in Japans Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He said it is a legal and moral duty of the international community to save succeeding generations from the scourge of war and the threat to the survival of mankind, to foster friendly relations and peaceful coexistence between all states, and to save the finite resources for social and economic development. The Deputy PM stressed the need to continue with strides made by the world over the past decades, including upholding the role of multilateral and bilateral frameworks for nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control with the global nuclear stockpiles reducing by three quarters since the peak of the Cold War. Minh called on the nuclear weapons states to step up in their commitment to the obligation to general disarmament under Article VI of the NPT. Trust in the multilateral disarmament architecture must be re-established, he said, adding that regional architectures need to play a more expansive role in establishing and implementing nuclear weapon-free zones in all areas. Vietnam, as ASEAN Chair 2020, remains committed to preserving the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone, and will continue to engage with all parties to intensify efforts to resolve outstanding issues in the implementation of the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone, he stressed. The Deputy PM added that the rights of states to use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes must be respected./. Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak notes that the plan for a peaceful settlement of Ukraine on Donbas "is on the table," and none of the international partners has any doubts about Ukraine's position. "One of the greatest achievements this year is that none of our international partners have any questions about the Ukrainian position. And today the Ukrainian peace plan is on the table. This plan has at the end what the Ukrainian people want so much, and what, I hope, all progressive countries and our partners are waiting for, and what the residents of Donbas, our military, their families are first and foremost waiting for. We managed to build the atmosphere in the negotiation process, both in Minsk and in the Normandy format, when no one has doubts about it. All that remains is to get an answer from our vis-a-vis," he said on the air of the Ukraine 24 TV channel on Saturday. Yermak said that it is possible to clarify some details of this peace plan, but if there is a real desire to end the war, then it can be clearly outlined in terms of time and end the war. "If not, then say loudly about this that you do not want to end the war in Ukraine," he said. The head of the President's Office noted that the final stage of this plan is to conduct local elections in ORDLO on the basis of Ukrainian legislation and the norms of the Copenhagen Convention, and if one carefully studies the latter, then there are answers to all questions. "It is enough to say that yes, Ukraine must return its territory, Ukraine takes control over the state border, and democratic elections are being held in the demilitarized zone," he said. That release could not be found. Montage Residences portfolio already includes Laguna Beach, Kapalua Bay, Palmetto Bluff, Deer Valley and Los Cabos. Now the ultra-luxury hospitality management company is headed to Wine Country, with Montage Residences Healdsburg, a collection of 40 premium homesites spread across more than 250 bucolic acres in northern Sonoma County. The residential offering at Montage Healdsburg provides a perfect second home ownership opportunity for families and individuals seeking privacy and outdoor experiences among the natural beauty of Northern California, said Neil Johnson, managing director of residential real estate for Ohana Realty. Coupled with the luxurious amenities and attentive services that Montage Hotels & Resorts is known for, Montage Residences Healdsburg guarantees to be an idyllic destination for its residents to create lasting memories for generations to come." Chandigarh, Oct 5 : Haryana Police on Monday said it has arrested three people in Rewari on charges of betting on an Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders. A police spokesperson said acting on a tip-off, a raid was conducted at a flat in Manchanda Society, where three people were found betting on the IPL match. The police have seized Rs 5,71,900 in cash, 12 phones, a laptop and two notepads from their possession. The accused have been identified as Karan Singh, Om Parkash and Mohit. Its Great Lakes Great Apple Crunch time in Monroe County. Monroe County Health Department is joining schools, early care centers, colleges, hospitals and other organizations across the Great Lakes Region states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana and Ohio in the seventh annual Great Lakes Great Apple Crunch. Participants celebrate National Farm to School Month and local farmers by crunching into apples at noon on Thursday, Oct. 8 However, anyone is welcome to crunch any day or time in October that works. This year due to the need for social distancing and masks, Monroe County Health Department will take individual pictures,and the Monroe County Nutrition Coalition will be hosting a Zoom meeting with its members crunching an apple at various sites they represent. This will bring the focus on business and school districts, along with Mayo Clinic Health System, Tomah Health, Gundersen Health, Scenic Bluffs Clinic, Sparta Chamber, Sparta Kiwanis, food pantries, Second Harvest, ADRC, UW-Extension, CouleeCap, Hunger Relief Federation, Family & Childrens Center/Great Rivers HUB. Sparta Free Library will also participate by submitting photos of apple recipes and photos. All of these photos will then be placed in a video and posted on social media. Health officials say the collective crunch encourages healthy eating and supports farm to school and local food initiatives throughout the Great Lakes Region. Last October 1,815,331 students, children, teachers, and good food supporters across the region crunched. The goal for 2020 is two million crunches. For more information about the Great Lakes Great Apple Crunch, visit cias.wisc.edu/applecrunch. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The recommendation that Ireland moves to Level 5 restrictions has been met with shock and anger by industry bodies, with many urging the government not to accept the recommendation and demanding the evidence underpinning NPHET recommendations be released. The CEO of countrys largest business representative body, IBEC, said it is intolerable that six months after the first lockdown we are still receiving both vague and changing criteria to advance such serious restrictions. Given the seriousness of the NPHET recommendation for our economy and society, the Governments Senior Officials Group must seek, review and publish the evidence that is underpinning these recommendations, Danny McCoy said. Retail Ireland Director Arnold Dillion echoed these concerns stating no evidence has been presented that retail settings are a significant cause of Covid transmission. He said the sector has clearly demonstrated how the threat of Covid through targeted restrictions, while also sustaining economic activity, can be managed. A rigorous risk assessment, which incorporates economic and social considerations, must be carried out before any new restrictions are introduced, he said, adding that any move to close significant swathes of retail would have a devastating impact on thousands of businesses and jobs in the run up to the key Christmas trading period. The Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) described the recommendation by NPHET as surprising, unexplainable and economically unreasonable. They are urging the government to dismiss NPHETs request to move the country to Level 5 restrictions, which would mean restaurants could only operate takeaway or delivery services. Adrian Cummins CEO of the RAI said: "Government must decide if Ireland can live with Covid as outlined in the plan to tackle the virus or will they plunge the country into an economic lockdown as requested by NPHET." Speaking on Newstalk Breakfast this morning, Mr Cumminss said the RAI have asked for the international evidence that our industry is the cause of the transmission. We havent seen that evidence, he said. Leo Varadkar, Micheal Martin and Eamon Ryan are currently meeting Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan to discuss the recommendation before the Cabinet decides whether to implement the advice. WADSWORTH, Nev. - U.S. and tribal officials are celebrating completion of a $34 million fish bypass system at a Nevada dam that will allow a threatened trout species to return to some of its native spawning grounds for the first time in more than a century. Construction of the side channel with fish-friendly screens is a major step toward someday enabling Lahontan cutthroat trout to make the same 100-mile (160-kilometre) journey upstream from a desert lake on tribal land northeast of Reno to Lake Tahoe atop the Sierra that they did before the dam was built in 1905. This is a great day for conservation, said Paul Souza, the regional director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service who said it wouldnt have been possible without support from the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe. This is an iconic species. This project is going to help get it home, he said at a ceremony Wednesday at Derby Dam on the Truckee River 20 miles (32 kilometres) east of Reno. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation began reconfiguring the dam just a year ago in partnership with the USFWS, Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe and Farmers Conservation Alliance, a non-profit group that developed the screens. Brenda Burman, head of the bureau, said the quick work combined the alliances innovative technology with the services biological experience and the bureaus engineering and construction expertise. And in the background, pushing and making sure this all happened, we had the relentlessness of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe to recover the fish that they hold sacred, she said. The largest trout in North America, Lahontan cutthroats grew as big as 60 pounds (27 kilograms) when they climbed 2,500 feet (762 metres) through mountain river canyons to Lake Tahoe on the California-Nevada line, elevation 6,228 feet (1,898 metres). In recent years, theyve made their way several miles upstream from Pyramid Lake but havent been able to get past the 30-foot-high (9 metres) dam. Commissioned by President Theodore Roosevelt, the dam was part of the first major irrigation system established in the West to help make the desert bloom, diverting water to farmers and ranchers in a region where only about 5 inches (12 centimetres) of rain falls annually. The new bypass houses an 80-foot-wide (24 metres), 390-foot-long (118 metres) horizontal fish screen actually a metal plate with slots that pushes water down through the water system while sending the fish and other debris through the side channel. The Farmers Irrigation District of Hood River, Oregon, first developed the design after severe flooding in 1996. The district licensed the patent to the alliance, which since has completed 50 projects in seven Western states. This one is the largest and the first commissioned by the Bureau of Reclamation. It is really amazing to think a year ago we stood here not knowing about pandemics, fires, all the challenges that would come up ahead of us. And yet we are all here today seeing these screens turn on, said Julie OShea, the alliances executive director. It provides a spark of hope for future generations about what the possibilities are for restoration and recovery of a species. Tribal leaders and state and federal wildlife officials have been working for two decades to restore the fishery in Pyramid Lake a remnant of ancient Lake Lahontan, an inland sea that covered 8,450 square miles (21,885 square kilometres) of western Nevada during the Ice Age. The trout was thought to have gone extinct in the 1940s and was listed as threatened in 1970. But a remnant population later was discovered in a small brook along the Nevada-Utah border. Cutthroat trout also are native to parts of Oregon, Utah and Wyoming. Tribal Chairman Anthony Sampson said the project is safeguarding a precious resource of the tribe. We have to be vigilant to protect and restore what God created for us, Sampson said. Everything we do has an impact on life not just plant life, not just animal life, but all lives. In a new research paper published in Police Quarterly, University of Colorado Denver School of Public Affairs Assistant Professor Paul Taylor found officers can significantly improve shoot/no-shoot decisions by simply lowering the position of their firearm. In the study, Taylor looked at 313 active law enforcement officers in a randomized controlled experiment that incorporated a police firearms training simulator. There were three different positions tested during the experiment: Aiming: The sights of the gun were held in alignment with the of?cer's visual gaze pointed at the projector screen and the index ?nger was to be off the trigger and resting along the slide of the training pistol High Ready Position: The gun was held at the level of the of?cer's sternum and the index ?nger was to be off the trigger and resting along the slide of the training pistol Low Ready Position: The gun was held at the level of the of?cer's navel and the index ?nger was to be off the trigger and resting along the slide of the training pistol After the experiment was complete, it was proven that when officers had firearms at a low ready position, they cut their chance of making misdiagnosis shooting errors by more than half and it only cost them 11/100th of a second. Taylor believes this small amount of time gives the officer a chance to check their swing, enabling them to reassess what they see. "To put this into context, there is approximately .25 seconds between each trigger pull if an average officer is pulling a trigger as fast as possible," said Taylor. "This means that for the cost of less than half a trigger pull in time, officers can dramatically improve their decision-making." Training Officers to Shoot from Low Ready Position Could Be a Key to Fewer Shooting Errors According to The Los Angeles Police Department, of the 211 shooting incidents reported by LAPD between 2013 and 2017, 14% of those were what they call "perception shootings." A perception shooting is when a police officer believes the person in question presented a deadly threat in the moment, when in fact, the threat was proven non-existent in the end. Taylor hopes his research will lead to a lower the number of incidents by pointing out errors in training. Police officers are typically not trained to shoot from the low ready position, and training officers to assume this position could be part of the solution. Positioning the firearm at a lower angle would also enable the officer to remain safe in unsafe situations. Taylor expresses the importance of resilience engineering, which is to reduce the complexity of the workplace and improve the likelihood for success and safety rather than errors and accidents. In a study from earlier this year, Taylor examined the effects of dispatched information on the police decision to use deadly force and found that the accuracy of pre-event dispatch information police of?cers received had a signi?cant impact on their subsequent shoot/no shoot decision-making. Taylor's research continues to look at improvements police departments need to make to continue successful policing. ### Chennai, Oct 5 : Tamil Nadu Minister D. Jayakumar on Monday urged the Centre to release Rs 4,321 crore towards the state's share of Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST). He also said given the very limited options available, Tamil Nadu chooses Option 1 suggested by the Central government, that is, raising debt from the market for a sum equivalent to the estimated GST revenue shortfall. At the 42nd Goods and Services Tax Council meeting, held via video conferencing, Jayakumar said the revenue gap of states must be assessed based on an appropriate proportion of the total anticipated loss this financial year under Option 1, and that Tamil Nadu hopes that it is reworked to reflect a higher proportion of the actual loss in revenue of states. He said the Group of Ministers set up for IGST settlement for 2017-18 has acknowledged that a sum of Rs 4,321 crore is due to Tamil Nadu. "In 2020-21, for the period upto July 2020, compensation of Rs 12,258.94 crore is due to be paid to Tamil Nadu. It is a matter of grave urgency that the GST compensation payments are made immediately to enable us to continue to battle against Covid-19," Jayakumar told Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman who chaired the meeting. He said that their stance has consistently been that the Centre "has a moral and legal obligation to pay the compensation for the shortfall in GST collections" and it is for the Centre to find the necessary funds to compensate the states, if there was a shortfall in the cess collections. "As a via media in the 41st GST Council meeting, I had suggested that the Government of India could mobilise resources and lend the funds required to the GST Compensation Fund. The loan could then be serviced through an extension of the GST Cess for a few years beyond 2021-22," he said. Jayakumar also stressed that the issue of GST compensation to the state should be resolved in a timely manner preserving mutual trust which is the bedrock of GST. QUEENSBURY Interim EDC Warren County President Jim Siplon wants to focus on attracting new residents and businesses to the area, upgrading broadband infrastructure and improving communication as priorities for the organization. Siplon, the former chief operating officer of Just Water, was named leader of the agency after the death of Edward Bartholomew in July. Siplon said the organization was in the midst of a strategic planning study when Bartholomew died. His loss and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has forced EDC Warren County to adapt on the fly. We can no longer take for granted many of the attributes that Ed brought his extensive network, his deep knowledge of how this kind of work was done, built over a lifetime. We now have to figure out how we do those things without somebody who was kind of a once-in-a-lifetime figure, Siplon said. Siplon made his comments during a presentation on Sept. 29 before the Warren County Economic Growth and Development and Higher Education Committee meeting. In the short term, the EDC is a resource to help the area recover from the economic fallout from the virus. Siplon sees the pandemic as creating some opportunities, however, particularly as people look to leave dense urban areas such as New York City. If youre an accountant that works with one of the big four accounting firms, you dont necessarily have to live in New York City, he said. You may be used to coming to someplace like this region for vacations, or because your family has connections, or simply because it looks attractive. Our goal is to get you to stay, and how do we capture that economic activity as part of that overall effort? Siplon said another priority is diversifying the economy beyond tourism. Medical device manufacturing and health care are growth opportunities. He has been in touch with existing companies and new firms that are considering moving into the area, he said. Im pleasantly surprised to see that the phones are not silent, he said. He did not provide specifics. The goal is to help convince small and medium companies that Warren County is a place where their businesses can grow. Bartholomew served on multiple economic development boards, and Siplon said it is important to keep the lines of communication open so each group knows what the other is working on. Siplon said EDC has been much more active since the pandemic. Instead of just monthly board meetings, its staff has been on frequent Zoom calls with county officials and business leaders to discuss the recovery. Siplon estimated EDC spends about 40% of its time helping existing businesses deal with COVID-19 issues. Infrastructure initiatives The pandemic has shined a light on the issues of internet connectivity, as students attend classes online and people work from home. EDC is working to update 5-year-old maps of where broadband internet is lacking. Improving connectivity will open up business development opportunities in Chester, Warrensburg and Stony Creek, he said. Another round of federal infrastructure funding could be coming, Siplon said, and he mentioned the need for water and sewer work in the area, along with clean energy development and establishment of a reliable electric grid. The region has a valuable asset in SUNY Adirondack, which has been able to adapt to changing circumstances with new programs for workforce development, he said. EDC is also working to digitize documents for preservation, according to Siplon. Ed (Bartholomew) had 10 years of stuff in his head and there are more than 10 years of stuff in his office. I have two scanners working eight hours a day, he said. The agency has a limited staff of three people and a contract auditor. Four or five people are needed, he said. But the organization did not wish to seek additional funding from the county for 2021, given the financial crunch that has accompanied the pandemic. The county gives EDC $300,000 and gives another $50,000 to the county LDC. Improving communication Improving communication with the public through use of social media and updating the website should also be priorities, Siplon said. EDCs website now focuses a lot of attention on developable lots. Siplon said his daughter noticed how outdated the website is. She said: Dad, 2005 called. They want their website back, he said. Weve got to have content thats actually attractive. Weve got to have people whove located here, telling their story, he said. He is himself an example of a person who decided to settle in the area after living in various places. Siplon and his wife bought and sold 13 houses before moving here. He thought he would spend just a couple of years in Glens Falls to get Just Water off the ground, but decided to make his home here. Queensbury at-Large Supervisor Mike Wild said there has been a little pushback from time to time when a plea has been made to get residents from downstate to locate up here. Inn at Erlowest General Manager Frank Dittrich spoke up during the public comment portion of the meeting, saying Warren County should move quickly to attract residents from New York City. Were three hours away. They like being here. Getting residents up here, building our tax base, improving the economy is a huge opportunity, he said. Reach Michael Goot at 518-742-3320 or mgoot@poststar.com and follow his blog poststar.com/blogs/michael_goot/. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. What The Study Did: How the 2016 U.S. presidential election was associated with changes in the mental health of Muslim college students was assessed in this study. Authors: Sara Abelson, M.P.H., of the University of Michigan School of Public Health in Ann Arbor, is the corresponding author. To access the embargoed study: Visit our For The Media website at this link https://media.jamanetwork.com/ (doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2020.3694) Editor's Note: The article includes conflict of interest and funding/support disclosures. Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support. ### The full study is linked to this news release. Embed this link to provide your readers free access to the full-text article This link will be live at the embargo time https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2020.3694?guestAccessKey=e675789f-2043-45d8-b136-9ca0aaea4dcf&utm_source=For_The_Media&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=ftm_links&utm_content=tfl&utm_term=100520 Even though Boar's Head Brigade-Corps Alumni Weekend was scaled back this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the weekend again included a prominent speaker for the Sept. 26-27 event. Army Col. Andrew Morgan, an American astronaut who recently returned from the International Space Station, addressed the Corps of Cadets, alumni, and some faculty and staff Sept. 26 in the virtual "First Call" weekend kickoff event hosted by the North Georgia Corps of Cadets Association (NGCCA). "The cadets had a great opportunity to hear about Col. Morgan's leadership challenges as an astronaut, a medical professional and a member of the special operations community," said retired Col. Joseph Matthews, commandant of cadets at UNG. "His unique experiences enhanced our cadets' understanding of the great opportunities they can look forward to in the Army." Astronaut Andrew Morgan, an Army colonel, spoke during Boar's Head Brigade-Corps Alumni Weekend. Prior to his selection to NASA's 21st group of astronauts, Morgan served in elite special operations units worldwide. He served as flight engineer on the International Space Station for Expedition 60, 61 and 62. "The association continues to find ways to support the Corps of Cadets," said Jeff Dill, '85, chairman of NGCCA. "This virtual broadcast of a distinguished Army officer and American astronaut who has been to the farthest frontier was an example of how we help provide top-notch learning opportunities for the Corps of Cadets." Cadet Lt. Col. Victor Ambriz, 1st Battalion commander and a senior from Hazlehurst, Georgia, was thankful to be one of five cadets who was able to ask Morgan a question. He was impressed that, even as an astronaut, Morgan considers serving his country in the Army to be his best accomplishment. "As a physics major who wants to be a pilot, it was pretty amazing to be able to talk to someone like that," Ambriz said. Alpha Company 1st Sgt. Callie Regal, a junior from Dalton, Georgia, pursuing a degree in interdisciplinary studies, appreciated the motivational factor of how Morgan's service in the Army helped prepare him to work as an astronaut. "He was able to build a resume with all these different skill sets that led NASA to hire him," Regal said. "It was neat to see the types of opportunities we as cadets can have once we graduate." The Corps capped the weekend with a military review on the Gen. William "Lipp" Livsey Drill Field on Sept. 27. NGCCA presented senior cadets with belt buckles to mark the occasion. While the weekend generally includes the recognition of Distinguished Military Students (DMS), an event for those cadets is planned Feb. 12-14 as part of DMS Weekend. The cancellation of Advanced Camp and the implementation of Operation Agile Leader to make up for that training and evaluation during the fall account for the later-than-usual honoring of DMS cadets. A second "First Call" event is set for the February weekend, with Medal of Honor winner Staff Sgt. David Bellavia scheduled to speak. The networking and mentoring from Corps alumni to current cadets, usually held as part of the Boar's Head-Corps Alumni Weekend, is planned for February. It includes sessions that help prepare cadets for careers in both the military and civilian sectors upon graduation. The nature of all the February events will be determined by state public health guidance about COVID-19 and public gatherings at the time. A junior commissioned officer (JCO) of the army was killed in heavy shelling by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, officials said. This was the fourth fatal casualty in ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the past five days. A JCO was killed in unprovoked Pakistani firing and shelling in Nowshera sector of Rajouri, the officials said, adding that further details were awaited. Earlier, a defence spokesperson said Pakistani troops opened fire and shelled mortars in forward areas in two sectors along the LoC in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch in Jammu region. Pakistan initiated the unprovoked ceasefire violation in Nowshera sector of Rajouri around 6.30 pm. The Indian Army retaliated befittingly and the cross-border firing between the two sides continued for quite some time, the spokesperson said. Later at around 8.20 pm, he said Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing and mortar shelling in Degwar sector of Poonch district, drawing strong retaliation by the Indian army. The cross-border shelling between the two sides was going on when last reports were received, a police official said. Three army personnel were killed and five others injured in Pakistani firing and shelling on forward posts in Krishna Ghati sector of Poonch and Naugam sector of Kupwara district on October 1. Credible compiled a list of 20 U.S. metro areas where homes are selling the fastest, using data from Zillow and ranking homes according to the average number of days they were listed before there was a pending sale in December 2020, the most recent month in which data was available for all metros. Gucci The fashion brand Gucci launched a $ 2,600 dress (about 56,000 Mexican pesos at the current exchange rate) for men to combat "toxic stereotypes." The garment of the prestigious Italian brand is an orange and beige checkered dress for its autumn-winter 2020 collection. It is a long tartan cotton shirt with mother-of-pearl buttons, a Peter Pan collar and a satin bow in the waist. I encourage all Tennesseans to register to vote or make sure their registration is up-to-date before the deadline tonight, said Secretary of State Tre Hargett. It is important for all of us to make our voice heard at the polls. Thankfully you can safely register in minutes with our online voter registration system.Registering to vote, updating your address or checking your registration status is fast, easy and secure with the Secretary of States online voter registration system. Any U.S. citizen with a drivers license or a photo ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security can register online from any computer or mobile device at Over 15.4 million is being allocated to projects led by both IT Carlow and WIT to fund additional collaboration with other colleges and with industry inside and outside of the region, local Fine Gael TD John Paul Phelan has said. Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris today announced 22 projects are to be funded under the Human Capital Initiative. Five of the successful projects are headed up by Institutes of Technology in the region, Deputy Phelan says. Innovative methods of teaching and delivery will be promoted on these projects, so that learners will benefit from improved quality and more engaging ways of learning on enterprise-focused courses, providing lifelong learning and upskilling opportunities for all. These projects will develop and change teaching and learning," said Deputy Phelan. "This global pandemic has reinforced the need for us all to be agile and diverse. Crucially though it requires us to develop new skills and equip the next generation with the critical importance to the economy and the workplace of the future. The projects headed up by IT Carlow to receive funding include: 6,904,176 towards realising the potential of recognition of prior learning and lifelong learning in Irish higher education 1,725,343 for a Centre for Insurance, Risk and Data Analytics Studies (CIRDAS) 2,568,083 towards a project with DCU designed to support a Postgraduate Certificate in Innovative Materials for Industry The successful projects headed up by WIT are: 2,152,349 for Additive Manufacturing Advancing the South East, a project which will see it collaborate with Carlow and with industry in the region 2,048,180 towards Strengthening and Protecting the Funds Industry in Ireland, a project which also involves CIT as well as Kilkenny-based State Street "The additional funding will increase the South Easts appeal as a great place to study, to work, a hive of innovation and a region where academics work closely with industry to ensure we emerge from COVID as a stronger, more independent rural economy," said Deputy Phelan. BRIDGEPORT Former Police Chief Armando Perez and former Personnel Director David Dunn are facing up to 24 months in prison each after pleading guilty Monday in U.S. District Court here to conspiring with to rig the examination process that led to Perezs appointment as police chief and then lying to the FBI about it. In addition to the possible prison sentences after Perez, 64, and Dunn, 73, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and making a false statement, the judge also is requiring that $149,405 in restitution be made to the city. Perez is to be sentenced Jan. 4. Dunn will be sentenced Jan. 11. There was nothing said on the record regarding whether Perez or Dunn will have to cooperate with the grand jury investigation of activities in the city. In a terse exchange, Perez admitted to the charges: Judge Kari Dooley: You received inside, confidential information about what the examination for police chief would be? Perez: Yes, I did. Dooley: And you enlisted others to prepare both the written and oral examination? Perez: Yes, your honor. A half hour later it was Dunns turn to plead guilty to the same charges. Dooley: So you obtained and provided then-Chief Perez with information about both the written and oral examination for the chiefs position? Dunn: Yes, I did. Dooley: And ultimately when asked about that lied to the FBI? Dunn: Yes. The two men, who resigned from the city after their arrests last month, waived grand jury indictments, acknowledging the government had strong cases against them. We did review what the evidence would be against Mr. Perez and it was sufficient for him to make this decision here today, Perezs lawyer, Robert Frost, told the judge. Weve had some very detailed information laid out by the government, very detailed in the complaint and other documents illustrating what the evidence is the government has, Dunns lawyer, Frederick Paoletti, told the judge during his clients plea hearing. Both Perez and Dunn could also face having their city pensions revoked as a result of a 2008 state anti-corruption law. This is obviously a sad day for our city, said Mayor Joe Ganims spokesperson, Rowena White. However, todays pleas help bring closure to this matter and to what has been a very difficult year for the city. We all look forward to continuing to work hard every day on behalf of the people of Bridgeport. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Francis told the judge the government was prepared to prove its case against Perez and Dunn using witness testimony, documents, emails, text messages and consensual recordings of both meetings and telephone calls. The defendant, who was the acting Bridgeport police chief, and Mr. Dunn corruptly agreed to scheme to rig the examination process required by the city charter in order to make sure Mr. Perez was one of the three examination finalists and thereby eligible to be named the permanent police chief, Francis said. Both Perez and Dunn appeared nervous as they stood in the courtroom before the judge. Asked separately if they had taken any drugs that might influence their decision, Perez told the judge, I had a little wine last night with my spaghetti dinner, but added it was not affecting him in court. The federal complaint paints a picture of Perez as desperate to be appointed permanent top cop but frustrated with his inability to fill out the necessary paperwork and answer exam questions. So, allegedly, Dunn assisted Perez by providing him with the test questions in advance and two unnamed police officers helped Perez write his application and test responses. According to the complaint, on an Oct. 17, 2018, phone call between Dunn and one of the interview panelists, Dunn stated that the Mayor wanted Perez to be in the top three. Panelist-1 understood Dunn to be asking Panelist-1 to score Perez higher and/or to influence other panelists to do the same. Ganim had to pick a police chief from the top three qualified candidates. He ultimately awarded the five-year contract to Perez. Dunn later denied to the FBI that anybody tried to influence the panelists on Perezs behalf, the complaint states. The complaint states that Perez, after being told of the allegations against him, spent hours telling FBI agents that it wasnt true even though they had recordings of him telling officers to get him the prepared answers for the exam. Nicky Hilton made the rare move of showing off her children's faces this weekend for her 1.2M Instagram followers. The sister of DJ Paris Hilton posted an image where her two daughters were holding hands while dressed up as Anna from Frozen as they stood in front of their darling gray playhouse in a back yard. 'Halloween starts early in this house,' noted the 37-year-old fashion designer in her caption. Two cute! Nicky Hilton made the rare move of showing off her children's faces. She posted an image where her two daughters were holding hands while dressed up as Anna from Frozen as they stood in front of their darling playhouse Will she vpte for Trump? The designer, who has been married to banker James Rothschild since 2015, also took to social media to urge followers to vote. Her sister Paris voted for Donald Trump during the last election Her daughters are Lily-Grace, aged four, and Teddy Marilyn, aged two. The post was liked by sister Paris, aunt Kyle Richards and RHOBH star Lisa Rinna. The designer, who has been married to banker James Rothschild since 2015, also took to social media to urge followers to vote. Her sister Paris voted for Donald Trump during the last election. At home in the Big Apple: The shoe designer in her Manhattan apartment alone Meanwhile, her Paris has been made headlines in September with the release of her YouTube documentary, This Is Paris. In the movie, the 39-year-old former Simple Life star revealed her trauma at being sent to a boarding school for troubled youth in Utah at the age of 16 because her parents couldn't control her. Nicky recently told E! News about the first time she watched the documentary, in the company of her sister. 'Very emotional': Nicky recently told E! News about the first time she watched her older sister Paris' YouTube documentary in which Paris spoke about trauma she's experienced as a teen; Paris, mom Kathy and Nicky seen in 2019 'It was very, very emotional,' she recounted. 'She didn't even want to show my mother the movie. So we snuck downstairs and we were watching it together. 'She said, 'I don't want mom to see it.' I was like, 'Well she's going to see it in a few weeks when it's on YouTube for the whole world to see.'' Nicky continued: 'We laughed. We cried. I'm just so proud of her, because going through so much trauma and reliving it with the whole world watching is very brave.' Hard on her sister: Nicky told Paris that she had been 'naughty' as a teenager in NYC Paris revealed a never-before-seen side of herself in the documentary, stripping away the shallow socialite character she's been pigeonholed into portraying. She told Variety of her portrayal in the film: 'I feel that I've grown up so much, especially in the past year. 'Doing this film, I just had so many realizations and realized who I truly am and why I am the way I am.' With each day since U.S. President Donald Trump reported that he tested positive for COVID-19, his doctors have added a new major therapy to treat the disease, for a total of three at this point. On Fridaythe same day that Trump said he tested positivethe President received an experimental combination of two monoclonal antibodies to help his immune system fight the coronavirus infection, according to his physician, Sean Conley. The next dayafter he was hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Centerhe received the drug remdesivir, which blocks the coronaviruss ability to make more copies of itself. Remdesivir is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, but has received emergency use authorization for treating COVID-19. On Sundayday threeTrumps doctors revealed hes also taking dexamethasone, a corticosteroid typically administered to control the inflammatory response common in more advanced stages of the disease. While the monoclonal antibodies are designed to be used in non-hospitalized patients early in their infectionas the President apparently was when he received themremdesivir was originally only authorized for hospitalized patients who are moderately to severely ill and in intensive care. That authorization has only recently been expanded, on Aug. 28, to include any hospitalized patient. Still, even hospitalized patients who may not need intensive care and receive remdesivir are generally further along in their disease than the President appears to be. Patients who receive the monoclonal antibodies, made by Regeneron, are generally enrolled in trials, so researchers can learn more about the combinations safety and effectiveness. In rare exceptions, doctors can apply for compassionate use outside of these studies, which is what Trump received, according to the company. The thing that is odd is that in most trials people usually have symptoms eight, nine or 10 days before they are enrolled in the trial, says Dr. Walid Gellad, director of the center for pharmaceutical policy and prescribing at the University of Pittsburgh, about remdesivir. From that standpoint, its a little unprecedented that anyone so early [in their disease] would be receiving it. Story continues Similarly, dexamethasone, a steroid approved to reduce inflammation and suppress overactive immune reactions triggered by autoimmune diseases, is also recommended for patients long into their battle with COVID-19 and who are showing more severe symptoms. The steroid seems to reduce the inflammation that can compromise respiratory tissues and ultimately make it difficult for patients to breathe. But both the U.S. National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization recommend dexamethasone only for hospitalized patients who need supplemental oxygen or are on a ventilator. The NIH guidance specifically advises against dexamethasone for the treatment of COVID-19 in patients who do not require supplemental oxygen. The World Health Organization in September updated its recommendations about corticosteroids to treat COVID-19, with similar advice to limit its use to patients with severe disease who need supplemental oxygen. That advice is based on data from a late June U.K. study that showed that while people on oxygen or ventilators benefited from the drug, those not needing additional oxygen did not. Read more: What We Still Dont Know About Trumps Condition What If Trumps Condition Worsens? Mike Pence Steps Into the Spotlight Physician Briefing Raises More Questions Than Answers White Houses Silence Worries Diplomats U.S. Adversaries Exploiting Trumps Illness How Trumps Diagnosis Could Change the Campaign Aides Wonder If More Could Have Been Done to Protect Trump What to Know About Regeneron Where Trump Has Been Since Monday What History Can Teach Us About Presidential Health Crises What is very odd is that dexamethasone is not typically used in someone whose symptoms just started a few days ago and with one blip of low oxygen and who is otherwise walking on their own with no need for oxygen, says Gellad. Thats not when dexamethasone is typically used. So either he is worse than they have admitted to or they are using the drug in a way that is not in the usual standard of care. Still, doctors have only been treating COVID-19 for about nine months at the most. The standard of care is still evolving, and definitions about mild and moderate disease and the criteria that make people eligible for unapproved treatments range widely. Dr. Carlos del Rio, executive associate dean and professor of medicine at Emory University School of Medicine, says that recent reports from Trumps physician that the Presidents oxygen levels dropped twice would qualify him as a moderately ill patient and therefore make him eligible to be treated with both remdesivir and dexamethasone. At some point in time he dropped his oxygen levels below 94% and he was put on oxygen, Rio says. You dont need to be on oxygen, [you] just need to reach that point. And once its reached, he is a candidate for remdesivir and dexamethasone. He kissed that goal post, and once you hit that goal post thats all you need to do. If I were his physician I would say he needs to be on them. You dont wait for the patient to remain with low oxygen levels. In a Sunday press conference, Conley said that Trump is not currently on supplemental oxygen, although he had two episodes during which his oxygen saturation levels dipped, after which the team decided to start dexamethasone. Conley also intimated that the Presidents lung images were typical of what doctors would expect in a COVID-19 patient. However, he did not answer questions about what the images showedsuch as whether there was evidence of pneumonia. We dont know if he has pneumonia, but his doctor said the findings were typical of what we might expect, so that means it wasnt totally normal, says Gellad. We dont know for sure. While Trump may have been prescribed dexamethasone as a preventive measure, it has potential side effects, which is why most doctors are judicious about using it. While studies show it can help lower mortality among COVID-19 patients by anywhere from a fifth (for those requiring supplemental oxygen) to a third (for those on ventilators) compared to those not receiving it, it also inhibits the immune system and can make people more vulnerable to bacterial infections. Steroids are immune-suppressing, so you run the risk of predisposing someone to secondary infections, says Dr. Bryan McVerry, an associate professor of medicine at University of Pittsburgh who recently published a study on corticosteroids in COVID-19 patients. The data certainly do not support use of corticosteroids at that stage of illness. What we are hearing from reports is that the President seems to be a milder case so Im not sure I would necessarily use dexamethasone. But Im not there, and its hard to speculate about that and the doctors taking care of him are good doctors so I trust they are weighing the evidence in their decision making. Del Rio contends that the drop in Trumps oxygen saturation levels alone could qualify him as having severe disease. [His doctors] said at some point in time it dropped below 94%, and the moment it drops below 94% you have severe disease, he says. They never used those words but in reality he had severe disease. Everything then fits. It may be a matter of semantics, or a more crucial matter of clarifying the still-fuzzy timeline of when the President first felt symptoms and when he was diagnosed, which neither Conley nor anyone else from the White House has done. If Trump has been battling COVID-19 for longer than several days, the treatment course fits more closely with that of most virus patients today. If he has only been infected for a few days, then his treatment strategy would seem more aggressive and pre-emptive than the typical regimenand considerably riskier. Gellad says that very few, if any, COVID-19 patients have been tested with monoclonal antibodies and then given remdesivirmost of the remdesivir data we have were collected before researchers began testing the newer antibody therapy. And similarly, only a small percentage of the patients in the U.K. dexamethasone study received remdesivir, so its unclear whether or how the drugs might interact or affect patient outcomes. What is unprecedented is that no one has received remdesivir after getting monoclonal antibodies as an outpatient, says Gellad. Anyone who was on a prior trial of remdesivir would not have gotten antibodies beforehand. Whether the decisions to start the President on three unapproved therapies for COVID-19 proves risky or prescient will depend on his response over the next few daysand on how sick Trump really was when these decisions were made. Given that Conley admitted Sunday that he previously evaded questions on Trumps need for supplemental oxygen because he didnt want to give any information that might steer the course of the illness in another direction, that may never become clear. How long has he really had symptoms? We dont know, and we will probably never know, says Gellad. Democratic Sen. Ed Markey and Republican attorney Kevin OConnor square up on Monday night in a debate hosted by GBH, the candidates' only live contest before Election Day. Markey, 74, is well known to Massachusetts voters after a more than 40-year career in Congress. Hes also the first politician to beat a Kennedy in a Massachusetts congressional race after a tough primary battle against Rep. Joe Kennedy III. Markey has worked to tap into a progressive movement galvanized in large part by his longtime focus on environmental issues. OConnor, 58, an attorney for more than 30 years and a small business owner, topped Shiva Ayyadurai to pick up the GOP nomination for the Senate seat. Pushing to bring common sense to Washington, D.C., and looking to blunt the Democratic socialist agenda, OConnor has represented family-owned businesses and technology companies, and fought social justice and diversity cases, including representing renters against slumlords. Related: Stream Mondays debate live on fuboTV ( Stream Mondays debate live on fuboTV ( free 7-day trial - sign up here ). Heres what you need to know heading into the debate. What time is the debate? The hour-long debate kicks off at 7 p.m. The debate will be held virtually, with GBH offering free registration to its virtual studio via Zoom for coverage and follow-up analysis between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. How can I watch on TV and stream online? The debate will be broadcast live on GBH Channel 2, WGBY Springfield, 89.7 FM, CAI Cape and Islands NPR, New England Public Radio in Springfield, C-SPAN and WAMC. MassLive will also feature a live stream of the debate. Cable-cutters can also watch on platforms like fuboTV (free 7-day trial), Sling and Hulu Live. Who is moderating? GBH News' Jim Braude and Margery Eagan are moderating. What topics are likely to arise? The environment, police reform and law enforcement, health care and COVID-19, the Supreme Court and back-and-forth over debates OConnor wanted several, Markey did not are all likely to come up tonight. A strong supporter of the Second Amendment, OConnor has targeted Markeys comments on police reform and focused on supporting law enforcement as hes toured the state. He argues against costly socialized medicine," whereas Markey supports Medicare for All. OConnor has pledged to serve no more than two terms if elected. Markey has advanced a host of laws combating climate change including improved fuel efficiency and emissions standards and ramped up renewable energy production; hes found himself often in the national spotlight since co-authoring Green New Deal with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Markey has also touted his efforts on gun safety laws, creating jobs in telecommunications and renewable energy, expanding access to the internet and efforts to fight the opioid crisis and Alzheimers. Related Content: Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Budi Sutrisno (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5 2020 The government has formed a joint fact-finding team (TGPF) to investigate the recent killings in Intan Jaya, Papua, including the shooting of Papuan pastor Yeremia Zanambani in Hitadipa district. Established under a ministerial decree signed by Coordinating Political, Legal and Security Minister Mahfud MD on Thursday, the team comprises ministry officials, members of other state institutions, intellectuals as well as several Papuan figures. Noticeably missing, however, are members of the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM). to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Rapper Megan Thee Stallion opened the new series of Saturday Night Live with a performance of her hit track 'Savage' - with a powerful twist. As the 'WAP' musician performed onstage alongside four backup dancers, she added a surprise spoken word break where she called to protect Black women and criticised attorney general Daniel Cameron. We need to protect our Black women. And love our Black women. Because at the end of the day we need our Black women," she said. Megan Thee Stallion was wounded when the rapper shot at her feet, it is alleged / Getty Images She continued, "We need to protect our Black men and stand up for our Black men because at the end of the day, were tired of seeing hashtags about Black men. Towards the middle of the song, the sound of gunshots were included with a graphic of bullet marks. She included a quote from activist Malcolm X, in which he said, The most disrespected unprotected neglected person in America is the Black woman. Who taught you to hate the texture of your hair, the colour of your skin, the shape of your nose? Who taught you to hate yourselves from the top of your head to the soles of your feet? the quote continued. The quote was interspersed with the word savage from her song. The quote later gave way to a clip from activist Tamika Mallory, in which she called attorney general Daniel Cameron no different to the sellout negroes that sold our people into slavery. Cameron is Kentuckys Attorney General and announced the news that no officers would be charged over the death of Breonna Taylor. Grand jury indicts one officer in Breonna Taylor case One officer was charged on three counts of wanton endangerment for firing bullets into her neighbours apartments and Cameron said that two detectives were justified in the return of deadly fire after having been fired upon. Benjamin Crump, a lawyer representing Taylors family, called the ruling outrageous and offensive. He said, If Brett Hankison's behaviour was wanton endangerment to people in neighbouring apartments, then it should have been wanton endangerment in Breonna Taylor's apartment too. In fact, it should have been ruled wanton murder!" Megan Thee Stallions performance on SNL came after she revealed she had been shot in both feet, naming rapper Tory Lanez as the person who shot her. (Lanez has since denied shooting her in a new song, saying her team was tryna frame me for a shooting.) She discussed the incident on Instagram Live, revealing she had to get the bullets taken out during surgery. After people questioned if she had really been shot, she shared graphic images of her healing feet and said, I got hit at the back of my feet because when I got shot I was WALKING AWAY FACING THE BACK. why would I lie [about] getting shot? CNBC's Jim Cramer said Monday he thinks the stalemate in coronavirus stimulus discussions could be close to breaking, potentially giving a boost to stocks. "Talks this morning could be fruitful, and I think that therefore I wouldn't bet against this market right now," Cramer said on "Squawk on the Street." House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin have rekindled talks over another Covid-19 relief package in recent weeks. However, the two sides could not reach an agreement by the end of last week. The amount of aid to state and local governments is one of the key sticking points. With Pelosi and Mnuchin failing to reach a deal, House Democrats passed a $2.2 trillion relief bill. The Senate is not expected to vote on the legislation. Senate Republicans and the White House don't want another overall stimulus bill to have such a high price tag. But the White House offer is much closer to the Democratic bill. There were signs emerging over the weekend that there's still hope for a deal. On Sunday, President Donald Trump, while being treated for Covid-19 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, said on Twitter that Congress should "WORK TOGETHER AND GET IT DONE." Pelosi told CBS' "Face the Nation" on Sunday that negotiators were "making progress." Cramer sees momentum toward a potential deal. "The fact that there are still talks at this late date is very positive. Why waste your time? Why would the secretary waste his time talking to the speaker, and vice versa? So I think there might be a little momentum here," the "Mad Money" host said. He acknowledged, though, that Senate Republicans could still be an issue. The last major relief package, the CARES Act, was signed into law in late March and expired at the end of July. The president did extend some additional relief through executive actions. The CARES Act's provision that barred airlines from reducing head-count expired at the end of September. The U.S. carriers have said they will follow through on tens of thousands of furloughs, which could be reversed if they receive more aid. Pelosi did indicate last week that Congress could be open to giving the airlines more help, going so far as to ask the carriers to pause their furlough plans. Share of Solar Industries climbed 7% intraday in Monday's early session after the company announced it has signed contracts worth Rs 409 crore to supply 1 million pieces of multimode hand grenade to the Ministry of Defence. "Economic Explosives Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Solar Industries India, has signed a contract for the supply of Multi-Mode Hand Grenade (MMHG) with Ministry of Defense, Government of India," Solar Industries said in a regulatory filing. The contract is for the supply of "Ten Lac" pieces having an approximate value of Rs 409 crore. The contracted quantity is to be delivered over a period of two years, the filing added. Following the news, the share price of Solar Industries opened with a gain of 4.86% today at Rs 1,118 and later touched an intraday high of Rs 1143, rising 7.2% against the last close of Rs 1,066.20. The stock also hit an intraday low of Rs 1,075. The stock has gained 3.5% value in one week and 2% since the beginning of the year. Solar Industries share is trading higher than 5, 20, 50, 100 and 200-day moving averages. Market capitalisation of the firm stood at Rs 9,990 crore as of today's closing session. The stock price of Solar Industries has hit a 52-week high of Rs 1,350 on Feb 1, 2020, and a low of Rs 772.05 on March 23, 2020. Solar Industries shares closed 1.71% higher at Rs 1,084 on BSE today. Stocks in news: Angel Broking, RIL, TCS, NMDC, Dr Reddy's Angel Broking: Shares may list at 6-7% discount amid weakening IPO sentiment A man who scooped the Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? jackpot has revealed that he's been swamped with messages from 'old friends' asking for money. Donald Fear, 57, from Telford, who became the quiz show's first winner in 14 years in September, went the full distance in just 20 minutes back in September, answering almost every question without the slightest hesitation. The Sun has reported that the history teacher, who still had three of his lifelines left at the last hurdle, wrote on Facebook: 'Found a really weird begging letter (20,000 euros) from France in my pigeon-hole this morning (in addition to the 20 or 30 I've received via DMs on here). There are downsides to this win!' 'Now I've discovered that there is a 'spam' folder in Messenger,' he later added. 'It contains 132 messages, including ones from old friends I'd lost touch with years ago. Donald Fear (pictured, with host Jeremy Clarkson), 57, from Telford, who scooped the Jackpot last September, has revealed that he's been swamped with messages from 'old friends' asking for money The History and Politics teacher at Haberdashers' Adams Grammar school, was the first contestant in 14 years to win the 1 million top prize, becoming the sixth champion in the show's 22-year history 'We're talking primary school in Prestwich, first year at university, etc.' Donald's win came a year after his brother Davyth, 60, took home the second biggest prize - 500,000 - the same time the previous year on the show. The contestant even admitted he was able to answer the 1million question 'In 1718, which pirate died in battle off the coast of what is now North Carolina?' before he'd seen it properly. It was at this point in the show the final question on September 1 last year that his retired geography teacher brother stumbled and chose to walk off with his half million. Donald, pictured with host Jeremy Clarkson, went the full distance in just 20 minutes back in September, answering almost every question without the slightest hesitation But as a history buff, Donald knew the answer to his question instantly. 'The first thing I spotted was that there was a date in there then a microsecond later I saw that it was 1718,' he said. 'Then synapses went, 'That's got to be Blackbeard'. That was the only thing it could be. I'm a dates man.' The day after his win in the recorded show, Donald handed in his notice as head of history at Haberdashers' Adams grammar school in Shropshire, which the former Labour leader attended. He will see out the school term, then begin his retirement two years earlier than planned. Describing himself as 'a bit of a democratic socialist', Donald said he planned give at least 70 per cent of his winnings to members of his family and spend the rest on a 'comfortable retirement'. Speaking to The Mirror, Donald explained: 'To be honest if I had a million pounds, I wouldn't have a clue how to spend it. I could buy an Aston Martin for instance, but I could get into the thing, but I could never get out of it. I'm fat! 'The only other thing you could possibly spend that sum of money on would be moving house but I am very happy with our house. 'It is in a lovely area and we have been there 27 years and we have lovely neighbours, so why move somewhere else? So I would rather keep the money and give it away to people I love. 'A motor home is the only purchase on the horizon. Things may occur to me and I can waste money for Britain but on small, trivial things.' Current Affairs Popular radio personality Griselda "Crissy" Pratt, says she is fighting for her life at the Cheshire Hall Hospital in Providenciales. Pratt, who is a patient at the hospital, took to Facebook live to discuss her medical condition in great detail and to strongly criticise the treatment she received from the hospital staff and the National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP). She said she reached out to several officials here and in The Bahamas, including the Attorney General (AG) Chambers in The Bahamas, the Prime Minster of The Bahamas, the Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Human Rights Commission in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Governor. I am in a hospital room fighting for my life like anyone of you would have been doing but I just need you all to understand that. Get some towel because some of youll are going to cry when you hear this story. Youre going to weep your tears but just remember that I am a mother. I have children and one day my children are going to end up here, but before one of them ends up here, my voice is going to be heard, that I stand up for the rights, not only for my children, but I stand up for the rights of your children and your children's children. Come on this is not right and when you have to go ahead and sit down as a Turks and Caicos Islander and a Bahamian citizen and I want you to share this and make this a prime example to dont make your children mouth bondage when they have to speak out, let them speak out because you might end up in this position. Relaying her story, she said: "I came to the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre in 2019; I had a pain in my leg and I went on a machine and I told them that I had a blood clot. I took your medications and do whatever and from there I was airlifted to The Bahamas to the Doctors hospital and when I reach to the Doctors hospital they told me that I didnt have a blood clot. Ok fine. We are humans and we make mistakes. I understand that. I jump on my plane and I came back home. A few weeks later I start to feel the pain again. I came back to the hospital and this time they airlifted me to Turks and Caicos with your money. When I reach to the Doctors hospital I was told, 'Miss, you do not have a blood clot. Why these people keep sending you back here? What we are going to do is give you something in writing to take back and to the hospital in Turks and Caicos Islands and tell them to check their machines and something is not right with their machines. She added: You cant sue me for that. I have that in writing, but look how much of our people were misdiagnosed on these machines. Look how much people lost their lives in these situations and some of you sitting down there knowing within yourself , including some of our ministers, you know. You know that some of our people been complaining long time and people been in body bags and left out of here and you know within yourself that this wasnt right and it isnt right to no body. Me, Crissy took it upon myself and gone down to Dr. Menzies. I am calling names today. If you gone kill me kill me because I am going to die anyway. I went down to Dr. Menzies and I said to Dr. Menzies I am feeling these pains in my leg he said ok Ill see you but it sad to say that I was in the hospital and I took a jitney and leave the hospital and gone to Dr. Menzies office. I sneaked out of this hospital and went down to Dr. Menzies just for him to give me closure. I thank you Dr. Menzies for what youve done for me because if it wasnt for you I dont think I would be alive today. Mornington Peninsula residents have sounded the alarm over plans for a large quarry in Arthurs Seat bushland they fear could destroy valuable wildlife habitat, including that of koalas, on the fringes of Melbourne. Opponents of the plan have also criticised the philanthropic organisation that wants to develop the quarry, saying the Ross Trust's proposal is at odds with its stated mission to "enhance the biodiversity and sustainability of Victorian flora and fauna". Residents protest against the proposed quarry at Arthurs Seat: Michelle de la Coeur (second from right), her husband Mark Fancett (second from left), and their daughter Alex Fancett, along with Janet and John Stanley (far left and far right). Credit:Penny Stephens Hillview Quarries, which is owned by the trust, has applied to the state government to expand a disused quarry adjacent to the Arthurs Seat State Park and remove about 38 hectares of native bushland an area the size of Melbournes Royal Botanic Gardens. The quarry would be 190 metres deep and produce 70 million tonnes of granite products over 70 years. Greater nurse staffing and intensivist hours are associated with significantly lower rates of sepsis, according to a study published online Oct. 1 in Critical Care Nurse. Jane M. Flanagan, Ph.D., R.N., from Boston College in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, and colleagues evaluated the association between various hospital-related factors and rates of sepsis after surgery in 53 Massachusetts hospitals with intensive or critical care units and 25 hospitals with step-down units. The researchers found that sepsis rates were significantly lower when nurses cared for fewer patients and when intensivist hours were greater. There was an association of higher rates of catheter-associated urinary tract infection and higher numbers of step-down patients cared for by nurses with a significantly higher rate of sepsis. An analysis of physician staffing showed that higher rates of catheter-associated urinary tract infection and wound dehiscence after surgery, greater hospitalist hours, and greater physician hours were all associated with a significantly higher sepsis rate. Greater intensivist hours were associated with a lower sepsis rate. "Our findings indicated that staffing influences sepsis rates, but not causally or solely," Flanagan said in a statement. "Beyond staffing numbers, different roles may contribute to better collaboration and communication between nurses and the providers to whom they would report their concerns for early signs of sepsis." Explore further Risk of sepsis greatest for patients with frailty, older age or urinary tract infections More information: Flanagan at al., Factors Associated With the Rate of Sepsis After Surgery. Critical Care Nurse (2020). Flanagan at al., Factors Associated With the Rate of Sepsis After Surgery.(2020). DOI: 10.4037/ccn2020171 Copyright 2020 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Amman, the capital and largest city of Jordan, adopts Accela software to enhance public safety enforcement via mobile inspections SAN RAMON, California, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Accela , the leading provider of cloud-based solutions for government, today announced that the Government of Jordan's Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) has adapted Accela's Business Reopening Management solution to manage the City of Amman's reopening process imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. By utilizing Accela's SaaS technology, the Government of Jordan can reintroduce approved business operations and keep critical citizen services running while maintaining public health and safety guidelines outlined in the legislature's Defense Order No.11. This solution is part of Accela's suite of cloud-based COVID-19 Response Solutions , which were developed in response to customer demands for digital service capabilities to manage high volumes of citizen services during times of crisis. "Accela's purpose-built, yet flexible business reopening software gives the Government of Jordan the peace of mind that they can quickly reignite economic growth while ensuring only qualified establishments are permitted and public safety codes are enforced," said Khaled Jaouni, International Managing Director at Accela. "Accela is excited to continue building our relationship with the City of Amman, which we have been working alongside to drive digital transformation for years." The Business Reopening Management solution allows the Greater Amman Municipality to use mobile devices to review scheduled investigations, record inspection status and results, identify which businesses are permitted to reopen, and provide supporting documentation. Information and notes compiled through these regulatory processes can then be recorded in real-time and remotely synced to their back-office system without the need for manual paper documents or double data entry. In addition, Accela's cloud technology enables the Greater Amman Municipality's field inspectors and code officers to: Manage scheduling for onsite inspections, enhancing the allocation of inspection resources to all appropriate businesses. Enforce Defense Order No.11, which includes safety guidelines such as social distancing and wearing masks, by allowing for the inspection of facilities and individuals to ensure health and safety guidelines are being followed. Track ongoing inspections to ensure proper precautions are consistently taken. Enforce penalties on businesses that violate guidelines. "To protect our communities from public health risks and safety threats, we are committed to leveraging the most innovative technology available to navigate the challenges of the pandemic," said Dr. Mervat Al Mhairat, Deputy City Manager for Health and Agriculture at the Greater Amman Municipality. "Accela has been a longstanding partner in helping us enhance digital infrastructure, pivot quickly in times of crisis, and improve services for our citizens." Today's announcement demonstrates the City of Amman's continued leadership in using modern technology to better deliver government services. In August 2018, the Government of Jordan, funded by the World Bank Group, launched Jordan's Integrated Inspection Management System (IIMS) on top of Accela Civic Platform . The IIMS provides standardized inspection processes and provides seven government departments, including GAM, with a unified business registry across the licensing authorities. Accela works with some of the world's most forward-thinking governments to benefit 275 million citizens globally. Earlier this month, Accela partnered with OpenCities to launch its new SaaS Premium Citizen Experience , which provides agencies with a no-code way to create engaging, easy-to-use web portals and online forms that connect citizens with licensing, permitting, service request, and other vital functions. Most recently, Accela announced that Wine Australia has gone live with a new SaaS licensing and approval system powered by Accela technology that will help regulate the wine export process for the growing Australian wine sector. To learn more about Accela's solutions, please visit https://www.accela.com/solutions/ . About Accela: Accela provides market-leading cloud solutions that empower the most innovative state and local governments around the world to build thriving communities, grow businesses, and protect citizens. More than 275 million citizens globally benefit from Accela's solutions, which are powered by Microsoft Azure, for permitting, licensing, code enforcement, and service request management. Accela's fast-to-implement Civic Applications, built on its robust and extensible Civic Platform, help agencies address specific needs today while ensuring they are prepared for any emerging or complex challenges in the future. The company was recently recognized as a 2020 Microsoft US Partner Award winner for its innovative SaaS solutions to help governments respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, and was named as one of the Largest East Bay Tech Employers by San Francisco Business Journal. Accela is headquartered in San Ramon, California, with additional offices around the world. For more information, visit www.accela.com. For more information, visit www.accela.com . Media Contact: Kate Helete, [email protected] Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1008788/Accela_Logo.jpg Related Links http://www.accela.com SOURCE Accela But class and economic inequality are not the whole story and never have been. Going back to the field-defining work of the African-American sociologist W. E. B. Du Bois at the turn of the 20th century, the problem of greater rates of Black crime, he calculated, was capitalism plus racism. Low-income white people with higher crime and violence rates relative to higher-income white people experienced economic insecurity, but not the added burden of systemic racism. Excessive rates of Black violence were caused by prejudice and a common belief that the Negro is something less than an American and ought not to be much more than he is, Du Bois wrote. Todays educational segregation, real estate steering, predatory banking, health care discrimination and community policing amount to daily forms of systemic racialized oppression that low-income white people do not experience. And once upon a time, when these systems did prey on persecuted and despised Irish and Italian immigrants, their rates of crime and violence were much higher than their native-white peers. Sometimes Black and white conservatives wax nostalgic about the Jim Crow period to counter the evidence of systemic racism today. They use history to evoke a false past of a law-abiding, respectable Black community with little crime before welfare and liberalism corrupted Black people. The idea being that in the face of old-school, real racism, Black people did not succumb to violence. And yet, as Currie highlights, Du Bois said while in Philadelphia that he lived in the midst of an atmosphere of dirt, drunkenness, poverty and crime. Murder sat on our doorstep, police were our government and philanthropy dropped in with periodic advice. In many places long before the War on Poverty supposedly corrupted the morals of Black America, a slew of researchers found high rates of violence. In Richmond, Va., 88 percent of murder indictments between 1930 and 1939 involved Blacks killing Blacks, Currie notes, citing the work of Guy B. Johnson. The same was true of 75 percent of murder indictments in North Carolina. With circumstances this bad a century ago, white segregationists howls of Black rapists and murderers in their midst must have been right all along, or so it seems. The great insight of Curries book is tracking historically how systemic racism what the researchers John Dollard and Allison Davis called caste in the 1930s and 1940s was an accelerant for violence within Black communities. Caste, they argued, prevented Black people from directing their aggression toward the state or from mobilizing politically against the white citizens who subordinated them. Community violence became both a normal and expected response to the alienating effects of anti-Blackness and the disabling effects of the majority populations monopoly on power and violence. In this system, some people comply, others pursue a higher-class status within the caste and still others turn inward. Dollard explained that some of the hostility properly directed toward the white caste is deflected from it and focused within the Negro group itself. Internecine violence and disunity made the Negro caste less resistant to the white domination, Dollard wrote. Evidently, the whites did not consider security of life and person for the Negroes a very important issue. In the 1960s, the researcher Kenneth Clark described Americas ghettos as internal colonies. The violence within was an expression of the powerlessness of people who killed their friends and relations, he wrote. This may mean that the victim of oppression is more prone to attack his fellow victim than to risk aggression against the feared oppressor. Near the height of the crack epidemic and drug wars of the 1980s, the sociologists Judith and Peter Blau confirmed the findings of the pre-civil-rights-era researchers. As Currie observes: Violence, then, was not just a reaction to material deprivation. It was nurtured by the sense of injustice, discontent and distrust generated by the highly visible reality that other people were doing better not because they were worthier but because they were, in this case, whiter. U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany, R-Wausau, was one of 17 congressional Republicans on Friday to vote against a House resolution to condemn conspiracy theory movement QAnon. The resolution passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support after its introduction at the end of September. Tiffany, who won his seat in a special election over the summer, rejected the resolution out of protest because he saw the vote as a waste of time. I have repeatedly condemned, and continue to condemn, anyone who engages in rioting, looting, or violence of any kind, regardless of their political views while the Left has remained largely silent, he said in a statement. Unfortunately Fridays resolution was just another time-wasting exercise in election-year virtue signaling by Speaker Pelosi time that would be better spent unlocking PPP funding, providing resources for the police who keep our neighborhoods safe and enacting common-sense liability protections for schools, health providers and small businesses. Tricia Zunker, Tiffanys opponent in the northern Wisconsin district for a two-year term in the Nov. 3 election, seized on the vote and called it a total failure of leadership in a statement released Friday. Conspiracy theories and movements like QAnon dehumanize citizens, incite violence and threaten our democratic institutions, she said. Rep. Tom Tiffany is so extreme that he wont join his own party leaders in condemning this dangerous conspiracy theory and the violence it promotes. The message is clear: Rep. Tiffany is standing up for QAnon in Congress; he is not standing up for the people of Wisconsin. QAnon, a conspiracy theory movement, is based on the groundless belief that President Donald Trump is waging a secret campaign against enemies in the deep state and a child sex trafficking ring run by satanic pedophiles and cannibals, according to The Associated Press. Cryptic messages from a mysterious poster named Q appeared in online message boards such as 4chan and 8chan more than two years ago. The posts, rumored to be authored by a high-ranking government official, have made inroads into the 2020 election with a small number of candidates in state and congressional races who share the authors unfounded claims on social media. Conspiracy theories that falsely blame secret cabals or marginalized groups for societys ills have long fueled prejudice, violence and terrorism, Rep. Tom Malinowski, D-New Jersey, author of the resolution, said in a statement Friday. Today the House of Representatives came together across party lines to say that QAnon has no place in our nations political discourse. Malinowski authored the resolution after he received death threats from QAnon followers after an attack ad paid for by the National Republican Congressional Committee was released that said he helped sexual predators hide in the shadows. The FBI determined that fringe political conspiracy theories, such as QAnon, are likely to motivate some domestic extremists to engage in criminal or violent activity, and such conspiracy theories very likely encourage targeting and violence against specific people, places and organizations, according to Malinowski. The 7th District includes the towns of LaGrange, Lincoln, Scott and Byron and villages of Wyeville and Warrens in Monroe County and the towns of Knapp, Bear Bluff and City Point in Jackson County. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Binu Jacob, CEO of Nestle Vietnam Nestle Vietnam has been one of the few solid points in the lives of employees and consumers during the COVID-19 pandemic. How did you manage to inject stability into their lives in these turbulent times? When COVID-19 hit, all our lives were turned upside down, including mine. I came here on March 18 and before I could even meet the entire team, we went into lockdown. You can imagine how difficult a beginning we had. In times like this, the role of leadership, not only from the top but at every level comes even more to the forefront. Luckily, just before we went into lockdown, we reprioritised our operations. Very early on, we set 5+1 priority areas (see chart) as a business, deciding that we will only do these and nothing else. All other plans we previously had for 2020 were put on the backburner. We created task forces for each of these priorities, with clear streams and routines. In hindsight, this was the most important thing we did because if you are not clear about what you have to do in a crisis, the entire team is going to feel disrupted and unstable. From the beginning, we made it very clear that we have no intention to lay anyone off or to reduce incomes and incentives. As an example, in February, many of our sales colleagues would have missed their targets, so we decided to pay incentives based on their efforts and not on sales target achievement. Our foremost task was to reassure people that this company cares and does what is right. What was the response in Vietnam to this people first approach, and how do you think this attitude relates to your image and your brands success in the future? Our fundamental thinking with the crisis was Lets focus on doing the right thing. If we do the right thing, people will trust us more and on the long-term, companies who have built trust will benefit. Times of crisis like this show the true character of a company, and I believe we have managed to show that Nestle and Nestle Vietnams first focus is on our people and our larger ecosystem of distributors and suppliers. When the crisis hit, we started donating free products and cash to the communities that we work with, including small customers. During that time not once was I questioned by our head office. This is an important message for all of us, especially companies who are looking at long-term sustainable growth: a crisis is not a time to focus on profit, it is a time to focus on people and your purpose. It is a time when more than ever companies should give, not take. The more you focus on why you exist, the more you focus on the people who make it happen, the more you will build trust and respect Profit is a long-term derivative of doing the right thing. In the short-term you might lose, but we are not here just for the short term. We donated almost VND40 billion ($1.74 million) worth of products and cash during that time, but for me, its not so much about the value but the focus the company has kept throughout. Our front line sales force spent a significant part of their time visiting stores and distributing free products to small customers, instead of only chasing sales targets. You emphasised the importance of fast action, saying Done is better than perfect. Which decisions did you have to make following this rule and what were the results? That is something I learned from Google when I visited their office some 10 years ago. The phrase was posted on the wall and they told me this is a mantra of Google. Fundamentally, they believe that it is better to make a decision, sometimes the wrong decision, than no decision at all because you always need to have the flexibility to adapt. Large companies invest heavily in data-driven decisions. However, when COVID-19 hit, we were forced to take positions with incomplete data. For instance, we usually make quarterly sales targets based on historical records, baseline targets, and planned activities among others but during the outbreak we could not wait for perfect information and had to make decisions based on gut feeling. It was just based on conversations, based on what people thought and felt. We then went from three-monthly to monthly targets, but at the end of each month we would take a considerate view and not penalise our staff for not hitting the targets. Nothing was cast in stone and we took a pragmatic approach by recalibrating targets after every month. It was the same way for production planning. We normally prepare monthly production plans, but during the crisis we were adjusting production on a daily basis. We often set production output for the next day based on sales results from the previous day. With every passing month, we got better and better at calibrating our targets. There were times when we set low targets and times when they were too high. At first, many were of the opinion to set targets that even we thought were a little too high to make sure nobody slacks off, but in time we learned that impossible targets make people give up and that is the last thing we wanted in these times. What lessons in sustainability do you think corporations can draw from the pandemic and how will it affect their future strategies? Many businesses have a unidimensional view of doing business, which links back to the philosophy that the only role of business is to improve shareholder value. Nestle, throughout its 150 years, has never thought this way. We always thought the role of business has to go beyond profit. It has to make a difference and create long-term value for the society, the communities, and the people that we serve. The pandemic was a wake-up call to the industry and business as a whole, urging us to start thinking about more than just ourselves. We need to start thinking about the ecosystem that we live in. There are some who believe that sustainability will lose importance as a result of the pandemic, but at Nestle, we believe the opposite. We think this pandemic is only a start, only a teaser to the long-term issue of sustainability. Companies like ours have a responsibility to address this issue and be a part of the solution. That is why as a company, we believe that we need to become a catalyst and share our experiences and philosophy with other companies and learn from others so that we bring momentum to the burning topic of sustainability. We exist not only to do business but to spread the philosophy that when we do business, lets also make sure that everybody benefits. Businessconglomerate Shapoorji Pallonji's mid-income housing platform Joyville will invest around Rs 1,200 crore to develop a new residential project in Pune, a top company official said. Joyville is a $200 million platform by Group, ADB, IFC and Actis to develop aspirational housing projects in India. This is the fifth project of Joyville and second in Pune property market. on Monday launched a 21 acre housing project in east Pune. The project 'Joyville Hadapsar Annexe' will be developed in phases, with the first one comprising 600 units to be sold at Rs 37.5 lakh onwards. The total units in this project will be more than 2,700. This is the second residential project in Pune under 'Joyville' brand. Joyville Hinjawadi (West Pune) was launched in 2018 and is completely sold out. "Pune is a very important market for us with a demand for quality aspirational homes by trusted brands. After success of our project in Hinjawadi (west Pune), now we have launched our new project in east Pune wherein we realise that there exists a demand for the same," Sriram Mahadevan,MD of Joyville Shapoorji Housing, told PTI. When asked about the project cost, he said the estimated cost of this new housing project is around Rs 1,200 crore. "We have been noticing that over the past few years, there is a flight to quality by customers and COVID-19 has hastened the process further. Customers are looking forward to quality and trusted brands for reposing their faith for home purchase," Mahadevan said. "We are confident that with more than 155 years of legacy would surely meet and possibly exceed their expectations in term of the product offering in the newest launch," he added. The eligible homebuyers can also avail the PMAY benefit up to of Rs 2.67 lakh under theCredit Linked SubsidyScheme(CLSS) on selected apartments. Despite COVID-19, Mahadevan said the company hasalready started the handover process of phase 1 at Joyville Howrah (near Kolkata) as per the timeline. It is planning to start the handover process of phase 1 at Joyville Virar (near Mumbai) before time. The construction works are on at Joyville Hinjawadi (west Pune) and Joyville Gurugram (sector 102) and expected to be completed as per the timeline. Housing demand was impacted severely during April-June due to lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus. However, sales have improved during the July-September period and is expected to further rise in the October-December quarter because of festival season and various incentives offered by builders. The demand is getting consolidated towards big corporate brands and developers having better track record of execution. VENICE, Calif., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Venice Family Clinic, a nonprofit community health center, announced today that it will celebrate its 50th anniversary by asking the community to come together online on Oct. 11 for Health, Justice, Action: The Kickoff Party and then participate in its Week of Action of socially distanced volunteer opportunities that will help people in need and protect public health during the COVID-19 pandemic. The community can join the Kickoff Party at 6 p.m. on Oct. 11 and see performances by award-winning recording artists Jennifer Hudson and Blake Shelton as well as the South Bay Children's Choir. They can hear from stage, film and TV stars, including Jason Alexander, Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg, Jon Huertas, Angelica Huston, Mandy Moore, Ray Romano, Chris Sullivan and Molly Shannon. Artist Fritz Chesnut, renowned architect Frank Gehry and writer, producer and director Norman Lear will also participate in the production. Following the Kickoff Party, Venice Family Clinic is asking the community to participate in a Week of Action from Oct. 11-17 by volunteering to help the 28,000 low-income men, women and children that the Clinic serves, as well as many other people facing financial hardships. "We are so appreciative of our gifted and generous supporters who are lending their time and talents to our 50th Anniversary Kickoff Party and encourage everyone to tune in for this exciting online event," said Elizabeth Benson Forer, Venice Family Clinic CEO. "With COVID-19 restrictions limiting our ability to safely get together and volunteer, the Clinic is providing an online Action Pack that offers a range of volunteer activities for our Week of Action." These include some socially distanced volunteering opportunities at Clinic locations as well as at-home activities, including donating to Venice Family Clinic or ordering holiday toys and other items online that the Clinic will deliver to people in need. Volunteers may also fill backpacks with school supplies for the Clinic's pediatric patients. Or they may assemble kits of soap, shampoo and other hygiene items that the Clinic's street medicine team can distribute to individuals experiencing homelessness. School supplies and hygiene kits can be delivered to Venice Family Clinic's Santa Monica site, Simms/Mann Health & Wellness Center, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Oct. 15. It is located at 2509 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90405. "The Week of Action builds on the 50-year history of volunteer support that has been essential to Venice Family Clinic's ability to provide comprehensive, high-quality health care to people in need," said Forer. "Our founders, Dr. Philip Rossman and Dr. Mayer Davidson, opened Venice Family Clinic on Oct. 12, 1970 and provided free health care to about a dozen patients that first day. They occupied dental offices they borrowed and used after normal business hours. With the support of thousands of volunteers and a devoted team of health care providers, the Clinic has grown to a network of 14 sites that serve the greater L.A. area." In recognition of its many contributions to the region, Los Angeles City Councilmember Mike Bonin is also declaring the week of Oct. 11 to be Venice Family Clinic Week. The declaration calls Venice Family Clinic a "health care leadera pioneer in health care innovations and an effective advocate for equal access to care for all people." UCLA Health and Cedars-Sinai are presenting sponsors for the Clinic's 50th Anniversary Celebration, and L.A. Care Health Plan, Kaiser Permanente, Health Net and Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan are sponsors for the event as well. The public is invited to register for the Kickoff Party and Week of Action as well as learn more about the Clinic's 50th Anniversary by visiting VeniceFamilyClinic.org/50years. About Venice Family Clinic Venice Family Clinic is a leader in providing comprehensive, high-quality primary health care to people in need. Now celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the Clinic has grown from a small storefront operation into one of Los Angeles' leading community health centers, providing care to 28,000 men, women and children annually through 14 sites in Venice, Santa Monica, Mar Vista, Inglewood and Culver City. The Clinic leads the way in providing comprehensive and integrated care by creating a one-stop health system that offers multiple services, often at the same locations and same time as primary care appointments. These services include dental care, substance use treatment, mental health services, vision screenings, child development services, health education, prescription medications, domestic violence counseling, HIV services, street medicine for people experiencing homelessness and health insurance enrollment services. For more information, visit venicefamilyclinic.org . Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. SOURCE Venice Family Clinic Related Links http://www.venicefamilyclinic.org Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Marc Preel (Agence France-Presse) Stockholm, Sweden Mon, October 5, 2020 15:20 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c492cb70 2 Art & Culture Nobel,medicine,health,pandemic,Sweden Free Breakthroughs in the field of health will be honoured Monday when the 2020 Nobel season kicks off with the medicine prize, as the world battles the worst pandemic in a century. The medicine prize announcement, due at 9:30 GMT, will be followed by the physics prize on Tuesday and chemistry on Wednesday. The most closely-watched awards -- for literature and peace -- will follow on Thursday and Friday, while the economics prize wraps things up on Oct. 12. This year, the coronavirus pandemic has put the global spotlight on research. "The pandemic is a big crisis for mankind, but it illustrates how important science is," Nobel Foundation head Lars Heikensten said. No prizes are expected to be awarded this year for work directly linked to the new coronavirus, as Nobel prizewinning research usually takes many years to be verified. The prize-awarding committees are "not in any way influenced by what is happening in the world at the time," Erling Norrby, the former permanent secretary of the Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences which awards the science prizes, told AFP. "It takes time before a prize can mature, I would say at least 10 years before you can fully understand the impact" of a discovery, Norrby, himself a virologist, said. The work of the various prize committees is shrouded in secrecy and the names of the nominees are not disclosed for 50 years, leading to rampant speculation. Read also: Nobel Peace Prize ceremony scaled back due to virus T-cells, breast cancer, scissors? Swedish public radio SR and the country's biggest daily Dagens Nyheter both suggested Monday's medicine prize could go to French-born Australian Jacques Miller and Max Cooper of the US for their discoveries of T-cells and B-cells in the 1960s, which led to breakthroughs in cancer and virus research. The pair won the prestigious Lasker Prize in the US last year. Or the nod could go to Lebanese-born American geneticist Huda Zoghbi for her discovery of a genetic mutation that leads to the brain disorder Rett Syndrome, both SR and Dagens Nyheter said. Dagens Nyheter also tipped American Mary-Claire King, who discovered the BRCA1 gene responsible for a hereditary form of breast cancer, and researchers who worked on a cure for Hepatitis C, Ralf Bartenschlager of Germany and Americans Charles Rice and Michael Sofia -- a trio also awarded the Lasker Prize in 2016. Two names mentioned frequently are Emmanuelle Charpentier of France and Jennifer Doudna of the US, for their gene-editing technique known as the CRISPR-Cas9 DNA snipping tool, a type of genetic "scissors" used to cut out a mutated gene in a human embryo and replace it with a corrected version. Chinese-born American Feng Zhang also claims to have discovered the technique, which could be eligible for both the medicine and chemistry prize. Others also mentioned include immunologists Marc Feldmann of Australia and Indian-born British researcher Ravinder Maini, for work on rheumatoid arthritis, and American oncologist Dennis Slamon for research on breast cancer and the drug treatment Herceptin. For Tuesday's physics prize, astrophysicists Shep Doeleman of the US and Germany's Heino Falcke could win for work that led to the first directly observed image of a black hole in April 2019, according to Dagens Nyheter. SR meanwhile saw it going to American mathematician Peter Shor who paved the way for today's research on quantum computers, or France's Alain Aspect for his work on quantum entanglement. For chemistry, SR predicted the honor could go to Christopher Murray for his work on semiconductor nanocrystals or to US gene sequencing pioneer Leroy Hood, while Dagens Nyheter tipped Americans Harry Gray, Richard Holm and Stephen Lippard for work in the field of bioinorganic chemistry. Read also: Nobel winners to get $110,000 raise as prize money increased Greta for peace prize? Nobel watchers say the peace prize could go to press freedom champions such as Reporters Without Borders or the Committee to Protect Journalists, climate activists such as Greta Thunberg and the Fridays for Future movement, or an organization like the World Food Programme, the World Health Organization or Transparency International. Stockholm's literary circles saw Canadian poet Anne Carson and American-Caribbean writer Jamaica Kincaid as strong candidates for the literature prize, while Canada's Margaret Atwood and US authors Marilynn Robinson and Joyce Carol Oates have made Nobel buzz for years. Kenya's Ngugi wa Thiong'o, Hungary's Peter Nadas, Albania's Ismael Kadare, Korea's Ko Un and France's Michel Houellebecq are also frequently mentioned, while British novelist Hilary Mantel is a recent addition. Topics : Nobel medicine health pandemic Sweden Cabinet mulls "virtual free economic zone" 21:45, 05.10.20 750 Fedorov says many foreign companies are awaiting the move and queuing up to enter the Ukrainian market. Belgium's newest princess has spoken out for the first time after a court officially recognised her as the love child of the country's former king, Albert II. Delphine de Saxe-Cobourg Gotha, who previously went under the surname Boel, was overcome by emotion as she addressed reporters in Brussels on Monday, four days after a judge's ruling saw her added to the royal family tree. The 52-year-old artist insisted the ruling was not about money or status, as she revealed that she will not be using the 'Her Royal Highness' prefix. 'Boel was already very heavy,' she said - referring to the name she inherited from her mother's husband, wealthy industrialist and aristocrat Jacques Boel. '[He] is much richer than the royal family,' she continued. 'I just wanted to be the same as my brother and my sister.' Delphine de Saxe-Cobourg Gotha, formerly Delphine Boel, is overcome with emotion as she speaks at a press conference after being officially recognised as the daughter of Albert II, the former King of Belgium The 52-year-old artist insisted the ruling was not about money or status, that she will not be using the Her Royal Highness prefix, and simply wants to return to her life as an artist 'I feel like I have a right to exist. Not to exist in the royal family but as me,' she told Belgian radio show Matin Premiere. 'My decision to call for help through the law, I feel today that it was the right thing to do... The judicial system said that I was right and that I had the right to exist.' Delphine also revealed that she has had no contact with her biological father or her siblings since the ruling, and last spoke to Albert in 2001. 'I expect nothing more,' she replied, when asked whether she expects Albert to contact her in the future. 'I tried to solve the problem behind the walls, in secret, for years,' she added, but said Albert's repeated denials forced her to go public. Describing her life before the judgement, she called herself 'a black sheep' adding that her existence was 'unpleasant and unlivable'. She added that she now wants to go back to focusing on her art, while moving on from the scandal of her birth. 'It is not [the child's] fault, they do not ask to be born,' she said. 'The child who comes from a love affair outside of marriage should not be treated any differently.' While the court battle has not confirmed the circumstances of Delphine's birth, she is thought to be the result of an 18-year affair between the former monarch and Belgian aristocrat Sybille de Selys Longchamps that began in the 1960s. Delphine added that she is 'very happy' that the ruling has 'vindicated' her 'right to exist' on level terms with her half-siblings, King Philippe, Prince Laurent and Princess Astrid Delphine also revealed that Albert has not been in contact since the ruling, and that she does not expect to hear from him in future That affair is believed to have begun in 1966 when Albert was not yet king but was married to Italian aristocrat and later queen Donna Paola Ruffo di Calabria, whom he wed in 1959. The couple lived apart for a large part of their early marriage, amid rumours that she disliked living in Belgium, finding it too cold and rainy. Delphine was born in 1968, and the affair is thought to have ended in 1984. Albert's other children - Philippe, who assumed the throne after Albert's abdication, Princess Astrid and Prince Laurent - were born in 1960, 1962 and 1963 respectively. Albert ascended the throne in 1993, following the death of his elder brother, King Baudouin, from heart failure. Delphine - an aristocrat in her own right and an artist - first said in 1999 that she believes she is Albert's child. Her statement was made shortly after the publication of an unofficial biography of Queen Paola which alluded to an affair the King had which produced a lovechild. Albert acknowledged problems with his marriage in his Christmas speech the same year, referring to a 'crisis' which nearly ended his marriage 30 years before, but said he and his wife 'surpassed those difficulties to find a deep understanding love'. Albert (left) confirmed in January that he was no longer contesting Delphine's claim of paternity, after taking a DNA test (pictured right, her mother Sybille de Selys Longchamps) But Albert never addressed the issue of a child, and for years the palace neither confirmed nor denied the reports, merely saying that it was a 'private matter'. Despite years of private lobbying, Ms Boel was unable to get Albert to recognise her true identity. After years of questions over her identity, which Delphine claimed stopped her from opening bank accounts, she went to the courts in 2013 in an attempt to prove her biological father was Albert. The same year the legal case began, Albert abdicated for 'health reasons', passing the throne to son Philippe - Delphine's half-brother. After several early setbacks, the breakthrough for Ms Boel came in November last year when a court ruled that Albert must provide a DNA sample for testing. Failure to comply would result in a 5,000 fine for each day the sample was missing. Delphine (left, with her mother in 2000) first claimed to be Albert's lovechild in 1999, after an unofficial biography of the Queen claimed he had an affair and a child born out of wedlock Delphine Boel, now 52 (pictured in Paris in 1999) has been recognised as the illegitimate lovechild of Albert II, former King of Beligum, after a seven-year legal battle Albert is thought to have undergone the DNA test shortly afterwards, which proved he is the father. In January, he issued a statement confirming that he is no longer contesting paternity. A court ruled on Thursday last week that Delphine should be recognised as part of the royal family, putting her 15th in line to the throne and entitling her to a share of Albert's estate when he dies. A statement released by Delphine's lawyers last week said: 'Delphine de Saxe Cobourg has taken note of the judgment... which gives her full satisfaction. 'Her other requests for it to be dealt with on the same footing as her brothers and sister have also been satisfied. 'She is delighted by this court decision which ends a long process which is particularly painful for her and her family. A legal victory will never replace the love of a father but offers a feeling of justice, further reinforced by the fact that many children who have gone through the same ordeals will find the strength to face them.' Toronto police say a man has died and two others suffered serious injuries after a shooting in an apartment early Saturday. Police say they found three people shot inside the apartment at about 5:15 a.m. They say one man died at the scene, while the others were taken to hospital with injuries not thought to be life-threatening. Police have identified the deceased as 36-year-old Gary Douglas Gallant. They say a dark SUV was seen leaving the area. The investigation is ongoing. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 4, 2020. Sangrur : , Oct 5 (IANS) Continuing the pressure on the NDA government over the three new agriculture-related laws, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said that the Centre's "assault" on the farmers would lead to ruination of the country. He however warned the Centre that the agitating farmers would not be scared into submission on these "black laws". Rahul Gandhi was addressing a rally here on the second day of his three-day 'Kheti Bachao Yatra', before he led another 'tractor rally' in support of the farmers protesting against these laws. "The farmers will not be scared into submission. They will face Covid pandemic but fight for their rights on the streets of Punjab and the rest of the country," the Congress leader warned. Joined by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, who lashed out at the Union government for what he called "destroying the time-tested farmer-arhtiya relationship" to hand over the agriculture sector to big corporates like Adanis, Rahul made it clear that the Congress would not stop fighting for the cause of farmers. He said once these industrialists take control of food, every household would have to pay three-fold prices for the produce, leading to devastation and suffering for the entire nation. Not only would the farmers lose their land and livelihood, others associated with the mandis and the food procurement chain would also be rendered jobless, the Congress leader claimed. The Congress MP said that the need of the hour was to strengthen the existing system and to correct its flaws, rather than to destroy it, "which Prime Minister Narendra Modi seemed bent on doing". "Modi is only clearing the ground for his industrialist friends to take over," he charged. Rahul lashed out at the BJP-led NDA government for what he called trying to finish agriculture sector after failing to generate the promised employment. "It is not Adani who creates jobs but small businesses and MSMEs, which Modi has been ruining with his ill-conceived moves like demonetisation and GST etc," he added. Alleging out that for the past six years Modi had been attacking the poor with his policies, Rahul said that demonetisation diverted the common people's hard-earned money through banks to big industrialists, and he ruined the SMEs and small traders with the Goods and Services Tax regime. "Even the Covid crisis has been used by the Prime Minister to help out his capitalist friends, whose loans and taxes he has waived and reduced," he added. The Chief Minister told the people in the heartland of the Malwa region, which records the highest yield in wheat and paddy, that the Modi government had backtracked on every single promise, be it the constitutional promise of GST or employment or doubling of farmers' income. Farmers would allegedly be left by these new laws at the mercy of big industrialists, whom they would never be able to fight or go to for help. "Will you go to the Adanis when in need, as you do with arhtiyas at present?" the Chief Minister asked. "For seven months, Punjab had not got its share of GST money, leaving the state struggling to manage amid Covid pandemic," Amarinder Singh said. Asserting that the Congress, under Rahul Gandhi's leadership, would fight for the farmers till the ned, the Chief Minister appealed to him to ensure repeal of the 'black' laws once the party returned to power at the Centre. Rahul has come to hold the hand of the farmers, he said, terming the new farm L laws an act of total injustice with the farming community. The Modi government did not know how agriculture sector works in Punjab and the country, he said, adding that these legislations would pave the way for scrapping MSP and winding up of the Food Corpooration of India, as per the Shanta Kumar committee recommendations. Amarinder Singh asserted that his government would not let the Centre do this and would take all required steps, including calling a Vidhan Sabha session to makes state laws to neutralise the new central legislations and even move the Supreme Court. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text The Governance Research Bureau has said measures to curb the escalation in attacks in the Volta Region by the so-called Western Togoland secessionists must be fast-tracked in order not to create insecurity and prevent the people from voting in December. Dr Kwame Asah Asante, the Resource Person of the Bureau, said if that happened the Electoral Commission may find it difficult to hold the elections, especially in the Volta Region, and even declare a winner, which would create a leadership vacuum. A statement issued in Accra by the Bureau and copied to the Ghana News Agency said analysts believe that any postponement of the December 7 polls would leave Ghana without a president after January 7, 2021, which would not augur well for the country. The Resource Person, who is also a Senior Lecturer in Political Science at the University of Ghana, discounted conspiracy theories linking both the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to the insurgency and noted that no justification could be established for such theories. For the NDC, he said, the Volta Region was one of its strongholds and it had a lot to lose if the region was destabilized. Already a measure of voter apathy was witnessed in the 2012 and 2016 elections in Ho Central, and the North and South Tongu constituencies, he said. With regards to the NPP, Dr Asante said the Party had been performing well in the region over the years and it would need its increasing share of votes to boost its chances of winning the elections. Source: GNA 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 WASHINGTON, Wash. - After waging war on Canadian dairy, steel and aluminum, Donald Trumps White House appears to be setting its sights on new foreign trade invaders: blueberries and raspberries. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer served notice last week that the Trump administration fears domestic producers are being unfairly harmed by what they call a recent increase in berry imports from Canada and Mexico. Lighthizer asked the U.S. International Trade Commission to investigate whether domestic farmers, who are feeling the pinch from the COVID-19 pandemic, are being hurt by an increase in foreign competition. President Trump recognizes the challenges faced by farmers across the country, Lighthizer said in a recent statement. Ordering a USITC investigation, which Lighthizer also did on raspberry imports earlier this year, is just one of a number of steps the administration is taking to support American producers of seasonal and perishable agricultural products. Blueberry imports from Mexico appear to be the primary concern. But Canadian producers know all too well that they stand to be side-swiped. The B.C. Blueberry Council was obliged to retain legal counsel as a result of the USITC investigation, said executive director Anju Gill, who nonetheless is holding out hope that common sense will prevail. Canada is the worlds single largest importer of fresh American blueberries by a wide margin, said Gill, but remains far from the single largest supplier to the U.S., well back of Chile and Mexico. Even so, 98 per cent of Canadas exports go to the United States. Its been a very close working relationship between the U.S. and Canada, she said. In that sense, we would like to continue with that type of working relationship and trade. But well see what happens with this. Members of Congress from Maine, which is home to the bulk of the countrys wild-blueberry industry, went to bat last month for their Canadian counterparts to pre-empt a fresh batch of U.S. tariffs. Maines blueberry processing industry depends on bulk imports from Canada, the group wrote in a Sept. 17 letter to Lighthizer. We urge you to consider the importance of Canadian wild blueberry imports to the viability of Maines blueberry industry, reads the letter. Processors use excess capacity in their systems to turn those perishable berries into frozen products ready for distribution and sale, the members write. These bulk imports do not harm Maines domestic growers of wild blueberries, but rather these operations allow many of Maines blueberry businesses to survive. Maine produces an average of more than 83 million pounds (about 38 million kilograms) of wild blueberries each year, an industry that the lawmakers say contributes US$250 million annually to the state in direct and indirect economic activity. Its the second time this year that Lighthizer has sent up a flare about foreign berry imports. In April, he specifically mentioned Canada in a similar request for an investigation by the USITC, this one based on what raspberry producers and processors in the state of Washington allege are unfair practices by foreign suppliers. They have also raised concerns with increased pesticide residue violations of imported product, and with misleading labelling of frozen mixed-berry packs imported from Canada, which do not accurately identify the source of raspberries in the pack. The fresh concerns about Canadian exports to the U.S. extend beyond the berry farm. During hearings earlier this summer into the foreign perils faced by U.S. producers of seasonal and perishable goods, the USTR got an earful about what at least one witness described as the dumping of Canadian produce. New York Farm Bureau members have concerns regarding unfair trade practices by Canada regarding the sale of fruits and vegetables into the U.S., the groups president David Fisher testified. Fisher, a dairy farmer, likened the complaints to those long voiced by U.S. milk producers who struggled to compete with counterparts in Canadas supply-managed dairy industry, a central issue in the trade talks that produced the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Onion producers, for instance, have reported that over the past 10 years or more, imported Canadian onions have flooded domestic United States markets at prices that make little to no sense from a cost-of-production perspective, he said. Gill said as far as the collective interests of farmers, producers and processors are concerned, another cross-border fight is needless particularly if it comes to involve tariffs, Trumps preferred trade truncheon. To defend, to fight this, all the importing countries as well as the U.S. will be paying millions of dollars in legal fees and economists and all that, she said. At the end of the day, is this going to help the overall blueberry industry? Thats questionable. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. Legislation Enhancing Mental Health Resources for Veterans Heads to Presidents Desk Legislation to enhance the Whole Health Program at the Veterans Administration (VA), which passed the U.S. Senate unanimously, now heads to the presidents desk to be signed. This legislation increases the holistic mental health resources available to veterans. This bipartisan bill, Whole Veteran Act (H.R. 2359), was crafted by Reps. Lamb Conor (D-Penn.), Tim Ryan (D-Ohio), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Penn.), as part of a larger effort to prevent veteran suicides and provide holistic mental healthcare to servicemen and women. According to the VA, the Whole Health program is an individualized approach to care that supports the overall health and well-being of each veteran. The Whole Health approach focuses around what matters to you, not what is the matter with you. The Whole Veteran Act will advance efforts to ensure critical Whole Health programs including whole health group services, meditation, yoga, massage, chiropractic, acupuncture, guided imagery, and hypnosis are accessible at every VA facility with the ultimate goal of preventing veteran suicides. According to the VAs National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report for 2019, out of the 45,390 American adults who committed suicide in 2017, 6,139 were U.S. Veterans. Many doctors have looked at how our system is too expensive and reliant on dangerous drugs, said Lamb in a written statement. This bipartisan bill will help reform VA healthcare and give veterans a real choice and greater power to manage their own healthcare. According to VA statistics, 27 percent of veterans that have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) also have substance abuse disorder (SUD). In addition, In the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, approximately 1 in 10 returning Veterans seen in VA have a problem with alcohol or other drugs. As an example, in the Gulf War (Desert Storm) the VA estimates about 12 out of every 100 Gulf War Veterans (or 12%) have PTSD in a given year. Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs Mark Takano (D-Calif.) praised mental health legislation for its potential to help veterans. Its also clear that early interventions in mental healthcare can prevent veterans from falling into crisis, said Takano. With Congressman Lambs legislation, we can begin to break this cycle and provide ample opportunities for these crucial early interventions. Lambs bill will also require the VA to provide Congress with an analysis of the accessibility and health outcomes of each of the services in order to improve these services in the future. The Trump administration has been a strong advocate for veterans. In 2018, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to collaborate to ensure veterans get the mental health services they need in a timely manner. The executive order directs the VA, the Department of Defense, and the Department of Homeland Security to work in tandem to provide to the extent consistent with law, seamless access to mental health care and suicide prevention resources for Veterans, with a focus on the first year after separation from military service, stated a VA press statement. Cartoon depicting a working-class man being forcibly vaccinated by a health official, while held by a policeman. Credit: HathiTrust Digital Library As we get closer to an effective vaccine for COVID-19, we should expect to see a renewed push of disinformation and vocal resistance from the anti-vaccination movement. Over the past year, seemingly endless conspiracy theories and misinformation campaigns have gained traction online amidst rising COVID-19 infection rates worldwide. Looking at the history of these movements can help us understand why they can be so effective at capturing a popular following. As a historian of medicine, it's become clear from researching the history of vaccines that those who promote anti-vaccination consistently use a standard set of strategies. Although it can be hard to see patterns of argument in the modern context, looking back at a historical instance of epidemic and misinformation provides a useful case study for revealing today's recurring anti-vaccination strategies. One popular pamphlet published in 1885 during the smallpox epidemic in Montreal is a great example. Over a century later, we have the benefit of living in a world that has eradicated smallpox using a vaccine. Yet in the past, smallpox vaccination was hotly contested, despite the evidence in favor of its effectiveness. Published by a leading anti-vaccinationist, Dr. Alexander M. Ross, this pamphlet was widely circulated during the smallpox epidemic of 1885 in Montreal, as public health officials were seeking to increase vaccination coverage. Ross seized on the opportunity of increased health measures to gain authority, notoriety and personal fame. He painted himself the hero of his own story, the "only doctor; who had dared to doubt the fetish" of vaccination. Despite this, it was discovered that he had been recently vaccinated during the epidemic, a fact that was gleefully reported by the major newspapers at the time. His pamphlet serves as a prime illustration of the strategies used by anti-vaccinationistsboth then and now. These arguments are not new and have changed little over time. Learning to recognize their repackaging in modern form can help with effectively combating their power. The headline of a section of Rosss pamphlet. Credit: HathiTrust Digital Library Minimize the threat of a disease Ross and his anti-vaccination associates were quick to dismiss the threat of smallpox. Despite mortality rates between 30 and 40 percent, and the extreme contagiousness of the disease, it was common for anti-vaccinationists to claim that smallpox was only a minor threat to a population. Ross decried the "senseless panic" caused by health officials and physicians over the epidemic, claiming that smallpox was not, in fact, epidemic, and that the city had "very few cases." Official numbers for the epidemic would eventually rise to 9,600 reported cases with 3,234 deathsnearly two percent of Montreal's population at the time. An additional 10,000 cases were recorded in the province of Quebec, but historians believe the actual numbers were likely much higher. These numbers and the story of this epidemic have been narrated by historian Michael Bliss in his non-fiction account, "Plague: A Story of Smallpox in Montreal." The minimization of threat is a common tactic in contemporary debates as well. Many who promote the anti-vaccination agenda claim vaccines to be more dangerous than the disease. Claim vaccine causes illness, is ineffective or both Although modern arguments have focused on the false claim that vaccines cause autism, historic arguments were much more varied in their allegations of infections from the smallpox vaccine. The anti-vaccinationists of the past claimed that vaccination caused a full spectrum of diseases, from smallpox itself to syphilis, typhoid, tuberculosis, cholera and "blood-poisoning." One section outlines a whole host of supposed effects from smallpox vaccination. Credit: HathiTrust Digital Library These claims were not always groundless, but their risks were consistently exaggerated. Cases had been known to occur of secondary disease transmission due to poor practice. Some physicians used arm-to-arm vaccinationmeaning they would use the same instrument to vaccinate a whole line of peopleor used vaccine prepared from a human source rather than a bovine source. The lack of sterile cleaning between operations or the use of vaccine prepared from an infected person could lead to rare cases of secondary disease transmissions. The discovery of such transmissions (years earlier) sparked some of the first regulations around vaccine preparation and administration, and generated a keen concern within the medical community about vaccine safetya concern which has continued to be a mainstay of vaccine production to this day. Declare vaccination is part of a larger conspiracy Ross's pamphlet was adamant about the role of both the press and the medical profession in stoking fears over infection as part of a "mad" campaign for gaining money. Much like today, epidemics created opportunities for both employment and research in the medical field. Yet this employment was painted as an unethical exploitation of the poor, worth "one million pounds sterling" to the profession, rather than an effort in combating the suffering and death of thousands. Additionally, public health measures were depicted as an assault on personal rights and an overreach of government power. "Talk no longer of Russian Tyranny," Ross declared, for there was "none so formidable" as the city health officials. His arguments are still echoed over a century later in the current pandemic, as we see continued support behind the belief in a conspiracy to limit freedoms (among other, more extreme, conspiracy theories). Use alternative authorities that legitimize your argument The final section of Ross Pamphlet includes a long list of testimonials against vaccination from the most eminent physicians in Europe.. Credit: HathiTrust Digital Library Last but not least is an appeal to authorities that help legitimize the anti-vaccination argument. The modern anti-vaxxer movement has an abundance of these, led by Andrew Wakefield, the now discredited former physician who originally published the fraudulent study linking the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine to autism. But the anti-vaccination movement has had a long tradition of promoting the words of "experts" who support their narrative. In the 19th century, vaccination debates often brought in a similar small circle of medical men who spoke against vaccination, calling it a "filthy" and "evil" practice. Although their arguments were refuted by many in the medical community, they gained a lasting mantle of prestige amongst anti-vaccinationists as the authoritative voices that offered the "proof" that was needed. This is not an exhaustive list of anti-vaccination strategieseither historical or contemporary. There have always been individuals who capitalize on medical crises to push their own agenda, and in the modern age of digital media, strategies of misinformation have evolved and expanded. Much like Ross, the leaders of these movements gain social power by painting themselves as lone crusaders. As we get closer to a worldwide distribution of COVID-19 vaccine, we can expect to see more and more such crusaders publishing arguments against vaccination. Breaking down patterns of arguments seen repeatedly in the past can provide a useful lesson for combating them in the future. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. In a sustained attack at the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said that not a single policy introduced by the Centre in the last six years has benefitted the poor people. Panning government policies and laws like GST and demonetisation, Rahul Gandhi said, They passed the three black farm bills amid the coronavirus outbreak. What was the haste to do it at this time? They did it because they thought the farmers wont be able to do anything, but they dont know the power of a farmer. The Congress leader was addressing Kisan Bachao Rally in Punjabs Sangrur. Led by Gandhi, the Congress party is holding tractor rallies from October 4-6 across the state in protest against the three contentious legislations that were passed by Parliament last month and got presidential assent. Here is what Rahul Gandhi said in his rally: - For six years, this government has been attacking the poor, labourers and farmers one after another. If you look at their policies, there is not a single policy that can benefit the poor people. - They said they would do demonetisation to fight black money, but the nation had to stand in long queues outside banks. You put your money in the bank, but Modi ji waived the debt of Indias richest billionaires by taking your money. - GST brought after demonetisation, now you ask any small shopkeeper or small businessman what happened to GST. Till date, the small shopkeeper or businessman has not understood GST. - Demonetisation, GST etc. is all a way to target the small shopkeepers or small and medium businesses. You have to understand that Narendra Modi ji is making the way for Adani and Ambani. - At the time of Corona, we asked Narendra Modi to help the poor, hungry labourers walking thousands of kilometers. We said help small traders, but Modi ji still did not take any step. - This country will not be able to provide employment to its youth in the coming time because Modi ji has ruined the system of employment generation. - Everyone knows that this system needs to be changed, farmers need to be given infrastructure, markets need to be created but Narendra Modi is not even trying to strengthen this system. Narendra Modi ji is only destroying this system. While he should guarantee MSP, with these three laws he is killing farmers and labourers, slashing their throats. - Today, if a farmer has a problem in the mandi, then he can put his point across or approach another businessman, but tomorrow our farmers will have Adani on one side and Ambani on the other. The farmer will have only two options - Adani or Ambani. Now you tell whether a farmer can fight them. Can you talk to them? Not at all. - Those who think this will only harm farmers and labourers do not understand the food system of this country. If Adani and Ambani get hold of the agricultural system, every family will have to pay twice the amount of money for food. - I am not standing here just for farmers and labourers, but for all the people of India because not only the working class, the whole country is going to be hit by these laws. Pound Sterling secured tentative exchange rate gains on Friday and held steady on Monday amid relief that the EU/UK trade talks will continue. The pound-to dollar rate traded just above 1.2900 on Monday with the pound-to-Euro rate around 1.1000. Further slippage in the timetable will, however, reinforce uncertainty. Political developments on both sides of the Atlantic will dominate in the short term and create further turbulence while markets will also remain uneasy over domestic coronavirus developments. EU/UK trade talks will continue... After a video-conference on Saturday, Prime Minister Johnson and EU Commission President Von der Leyen stated that progress in UK/EU trade talks had been made in recent weeks, but that significant gaps remain. They agreed that negotiators should work more intensively in order to try and bridge the gaps. Negotiations will continue in London this week and Brussels the following week, although the talks have not officially entered the tunnel phase. Goldman Sachs commented; "Our core view remains that a thin zero-tariff/zero-quota trade agreement will likely be struck by early November, and subsequently ratified by the end of December." Marshall Gittler, Head of Investment Research at BDSwiss Group commented; GBP risk reversals generally trended higher last week (except for EUR/GBP of course), confirming that the markets view on GBP is improving. Id agree. Ive been pretty negative on sterling, but it seems that they are making a last-ditch effort to find some solution. Well have to see whether its enough, though. ...both sides wanting the other to concede first There will be further concerns over a further slippage of the timetable with major difficulties in securing a deal by the time of the October 15/16 EU Summit. Some EU sources have suggested that a final deal may not be found until mid-November. In particular, there will be a reluctance to make concessions on the fishing sector which is liable to delay progress. A slippage in the timetable would increase concerns that there will be major difficulties in preventing disruption at the end of 2020, especially with on-going concerns over logistics issues. Goldman added; "We continue to think the perceived probability of 'no deal' will persist beyond the next European Council meeting in mid-October." ING commented; While the outlook for GBP does not look negative for this week, we continue to see the GBP pay off as asymmetric, skewed to larger losses should the trade negotiations fail vs limited gains should a light trade deal be agreed. Hedge funds sold Sterling in late September CFTC data recorded that speculators had hold Sterling in the week with the largest short non-commercial position for 8 weeks. This will increase the potential for short covering if there is positive trade news. Trump dominates media coverage, global risk appetite holds firm US political developments have continued to be a major market focus following president Trumps positive test for coronavirus. Trump was hospitalised after Fridays market close which injected a further huge element of uncertainty. The latest opinion polls suggested that Democrat candidate Biden had extended his national lead while there were no definitive moves on a potential fiscal stimulus. Daisuke Uno, chief strategist at Sumitomo Mitsui Bank commented; With not a lot of major economic indicators released this week, the focus all comes down to Trumps illness. There is a welter of information about the severity of his condition, and that is making it difficult for market participants to make a move. Overall, risk appetite held firm with net gains in equities. The element of relief was an important underlying factor underpinning Sterling, but sentiment is liable to fluctuate sharply. Coronavirus concerns persists There are further concerns over coronavirus developments, especially with the UK reporting a jump in claims over the weekend due to an earlier failure to report cases. The official count increased to over 20,000 on Sunday and Prime Minister Johnson warned over the risks of a bumpy ride. Despite being involved in age falsification in order to extend his retirement date, the management of Lagos State University (LASU) is set to appoint a former executive secretary of the Nigerian University Commission (NUC), Peter Okebukola, as an emeritus professor, PREMIUM TIMES can report. In April 2019, PREMIUM TIMES exclusively reported how Mr Okebukola, a professor of science education, used three different birth dates interchangeably to manipulate the system several times during his career. Documents obtained by this newspaper show that Mr Okebukola has three different birth dates in the records of the university February 17, 1949; February 17, 1948; and February 17, 1951. Falsification of age When employed by the institution, Mr Okebukola , who is generally regarded as the academic mentor of the incumbent vice-chancellor of the university, Olanrewaju Fagbohun, used February 17, 1949 but later presented two other birth dates February 17, 1948 and February 17, 1951, at different times in the course of his 35-year career at the university. While the institution noticed these discrepancies as early as 2014, he was, however, condoned. He was not sanctioned let alone dismissed as provided by university rule for the condition of service of senior staff. On October 2, 2014, Olayinka Amuni the then deputy registrar (who is now the substantive registrar of the university) raised the irregularities in Mr Okebukolas birth dates to the registrar of the university. Mr Amuni explained that the professor ,who was employed in 1984 , with the birth date of February 17, 1949, was due for mandatory retirement on February 17, 2014, the day he turned 65. Professor P.A.O Okebukola was granted approval for three hundred and thirty-six (336) days deferred leave which should be utilised as terminal leave preparatory to final retirement from the service of the university, he wrote in the letter with reference number LASU/ASE/REG/002. Asides the deputy registrar noting the irregularities, the universitys Academic Staff Establishment, the division of the university that oversees matters of staff recruitment, promotion, discipline and welfare, flagged the discrepancies in Mr Okebukolas birth dates after he applied for sabbatical leave in July 2014, and declined approval for the leave. Following the push back by the Academic Staff Establishment, the former NUC boss in a letter dated December 5, 2015 eventually notified LASU management that he was prepared to retire from the service of the university. But he again came up with another letter on January 18, 2016 withdrawing his notice of retirement. This came five months before the then Lagos governor Akinwunmi Ambode, signed the amendment to the LASU law, which extended the retirement age from 65 to 70 in May 2016. The swift approval by the VC, Mr Fagbohun, who then said Mr Okebukola should proceed on sabbatical from February 2016 to February 2017 after withdrawing his retirement letter, was again countered by the deputy registrar, Mr Amuni , who noted that the VCs approval of Mr Okebukolas request to withdraw his notice of retirement was out of tune with the universitys law. Mr Amuni said this in a letter dated February 9, 2016. He also described the approval of Mr Okebukolas application to go on sabbatical leave and his continued stay at the university as anomalies. Mr Amuni, who was in charge of Academic Staff Establishment division, argued in the letter addressed to the registrar at the time that the subsisting policy of the university under which the sabbatical leave was approved was that an academic staff who is sixty-five (65) years old shall compulsorily retire on age grounds. In view of the law enacted by the Lagos State House of Assembly establishing the contributory Pension Scheme for Employees in the Public Service of Lagos State and for connected purpose, Professor Okebukola ought to have retired statutorily by the 17th February, 2014 on the strength of the first date of birth he presented i.e 17th February, 1949, he wrote. In the view of the above background information/irregularities observed, vis-a-vis the positions of regulations, the Registrar may wish to recommend to the vice-chancellor that to redress the anomalies, Professor Okebukolas sabbatical leave be terminated forthwith and; his letter seeking to withdraw his earlier retirement be discountenanced, the deputy registrar pointed out then. LASU lied to protect Okebukola When contacted, Mr Fagbohun and Mr Okebukola both ignored PREMIUM TIMES request for comment. Also, the institutions spokesperson, Ademola Adekoya, rather than address issues raised by this newspaper said, the university management had decided not to comment on the issue. The university later released a statement claiming it relied on the date of birth forwarded to it by Mr Okebukolas former employer, Oyo State College of Education, when he was employed by the university. Professor Peter Okebukola joined the service of Lagos State University transferring his service from the then Oyo State College of Education, Ilesa and the date of birth on his Record of Service forwarded to the University by his former employer is 17th February, 1951. The University is bound to stand by that date because the Record of Service is the officially recognized record of his past service. The affirmation of the Date of Birth of Professor Okebukola in the Record of Service forwarded to the University by the Oyo State College of Education, Ilesa confirmed the assertion by Professor Okebukola that he was born on 17th February,1951, the management of the university stated. But official documents obtained from the university showed the school management was aware of Mr Okebukolas multiple birth dates. The documents also revealed that the university vice-chancellor, Mr Fagbohun, was not only aware of calls by the universitys Academic Staff Establishment division for Mr Okebukola to retire having exceeded his statutory retirement age but also actively prevented the division from ordering him to retire. Advertisements Despite the integrity shadow cast over his career by the falsification of his age, the management of the university appointed Mr Okebukola a distinguished professor, during its 21st convocation ceremony in 2017. Professor emeritus On August 24, 2020 the universitys department of Science and Technology Education nominated Mr Okebukola for the emeritus status because of his outstanding contribution to the university in general and his extensive research and publication. He was said to have mentored both academic and non-academics within and outside the university, documents seen by PREMIUM TIMES revealed. Moreover, the Dean of Faculty of Education, Olatunde Owolabi, in a letter dated September 1, 2020, communicated the nomination of Mr Okebukola by the Faculty of Education s Appointment and Promotion Committee to the vice chancellor. The faculty said the former NUC boss met the requirements of the university condition of service for senior staff and as such was nominated by the department as provided by section K of the university rule which states that the candidate must have successfully supervised the PhD Thesis of at least five (5) candidates; he must have produced at least a student who had attained Professorial cadre He must enjoy the overwhelming support from his department; as an ambassador of the University, such candidate should consistently attract funds or grants from which the younger generations would benefit; a certain percentage of the funds which the Emeritus Professor attracted should be given as Honorarium to the Emeritus Professor; he must be a team player and be good at conflict resolution; he must be someone highly respected and with high dignity; scoring template should be developed to accommodate the above criteria; attendance at Senate meetings should not be made mandatory for the Emeritus Professor. The rule did not explicitly state that nomination should be for retired professors as is the case in most universities around the world. The norm, however, is that the meritorious honour is awarded to retired and outstanding professors who thoroughly served the system. But Mr Okebukola is still a serving professor at the university, a situation which prominent academics who spoke to this newspaper found strange. On the ground of age accepted currently by the university, Mr Okebukola will retire in February 2021. For instance, at Cornell University in the U.S., an emeritus professor is only given to a member of the professorial staff who retires after ten years full-time equivalency in the rank of a university professor, professor, or associate professor and who has rendered distinguished and meritorious service to the University. =============================== =============================== At the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom, it is an honorary title, recognising distinguished academic service of fully retired Professors. Also at the Washington University in U.S., Professor Emeritus must be a professor who had already retired from the system and the promotion is a lifelong appointment. A senior lecturer at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Kehinde Ayoola, said emeritus professorship is not meant to be dispensed for joke. Based on the record, the feat is meant for old professors who have retired from the system. It is to appreciate their contribution to scholarship. I have not seen any situation where someone in the system is honoured with such. In OAU ,for instance, Wole Soyinka is the only Emeritus in the universitys Faculty of Art. That shows the importance of the promotion. There has never been a case where a serving lecturer is even recommended. A retired professor, Toye Olorode, told PREMIUM TIMES that LASUs decision to announce Mr Okebukola as an emeritus professor was watery. The recommendation is watery and should not even be considered. It is for a retired professor who has been found to have genuinely served the department recommending him for such. It is not an honorary degree but a meritorious appointment on retired professors who genuinely worth it. One cannot be recommended when someone is still serving the system let alone be honoured. The system should frown at such development and should not be condoned except such fellow truly deserve it. In addition, the vice-chancellor of Technical University, Ibadan, Ayobami Salami, said Mr Okebukolas nomination is abnormal. No. It cannot be. It will be abnormal for any department or institution to recommend a serving professor for an emeritus position. The honour is strictly meant for senior staff who retired serving institution. Except one has retired, the appointment is not given. So, it is very abnormal for any of such to occur if the nominee is still in the system. It is used to honour those who are retired already. LASU seems bent on conferring the award on Mr Okebukola as the registrar of the school, Mr Amuni, on September 22, 2020, wrote to the university senate on behalf of the vice-chancellor, pleading that Mr Okebukolas appointment be considered. When contacted, the spokesperson of the institution, Ademola Adekoya, first denied our report but when confronted with details of the planned appointment, said he could not confirm nor deny such promotion because he is not aware of the development. Tata Sons, which has a 51 percent holding in AirAsia India, may buy the balance 49 percent stake in the budget airline from the parent Malaysian company. Amid financial difficulties caused by the pandemic, Tata Sons is in talks to purchase the 49 percent stake held by AirAsia in the joint venture, The Times of India reported. "AirAsia, because of its financial difficulties, is not keen on infusing capital into the India JV. It wants the JV to take on debt to run the operations. Tata Sons is forced to consider buying out AirAsia," a source told the publication. Moneycontrol could not independently verify the story. Tata Sons declined to comment when contacted by the Times of India. Also read: Tata vs Mistry | Shapoorji Pallonji Group's comment on Tata's aviation business may have touched a nerve, but is it correct? AirAsia is working on raising as much as $600 million to deal with the financial blow of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to media reports, AirAsia Chief Executive Officer Tony Fernandes said India is a peripheral market for the company. "We would never say that we would never exit India," Fernandes said. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had on October 4 suggested that AirAsia might close its operations in the country. "AirAsia ki dukaan band ho rahi haimatlab unki parent company mein problems hain. (Air Asia is downing its shuttersthere are problems in the parent company). They may be in financial stressThat may be individual specific. But Chandigarh ki connectivity ki koi problem nahi hai." Puri told reporters, as quoted by The Indian Express. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) speaking with attendees at the 2015 Iowa Growth & Opportunity Party at the Varied Industries Building at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa, on Oct. 31, 2015. (Gage Skidmore/[CC BY-SA-2.0 (ept.ms/2utDIe9)]) Judiciary Committee Postpones Hearing With FBIs Andrew McCabe on Russia Investigation The Senate Judiciary Committee is postponing a hearing with Andrew McCabe, the former FBI deputy director, after several senators tested positive or were possibly exposed to COVID-19. Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) made the announcement on Monday that the hearing, scheduled for Tuesday, was postponed. Its not clear when the hearing will be rescheduled. Sens. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), and Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.) have tested positive for the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, coming days after President Donald Trump contracted the virus and was hospitalized at Walter Reed hospital. Lee and Tillis sit on the Judiciary Committee. McCabe was slated to testify as part of Grahams months-long probe into Crossfire Hurricane, which was the FBIs investigation into whether Russia meddled in the 2016 election and Trumps campaign. He is also investigating a later probe headed by former special counsel Robert Mueller. A letter from McCabes lawyer, Michael Bromwich, said he wouldnt testify after the COVID-19 diagnoses. Mr. McCabe is willing, able, and eager to testify in person about Crossfire Hurricane at any time in the future when it is safe to do so. But he is not willing to put his familys health at risk to do so, the letter said. For these reasons, we are unwilling to appear in person for the October 6 hearing; and for reasons of fairness, we are unwilling to testify remotely. A fair and appropriate hearing of this kindwhich is complex and contentioussimply cannot be conducted other than in person. McCabe now works for CNN as a contributor. Then-Acting FBI Director Andrew McCabe listens during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 11, 2017. (Jacquelyn Martin/AP Photo) Graham announced in September that McCabe had agreed to appear before the panel, while suggesting that new revelations may come from the hearing. Theres a day of reckoning coming. Just stay tuned, and theres more coming. Theres something else coming, more damning than this, believe it or not, Graham told Fox News. The Senate Judiciary Committee is postponing a hearing with former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe after several GOP members were either diagnosed with or possibly exposed to the coronavirus. His comments came following revelations that the Washington-based Russian national who supplied former British intelligence officer Christopher Steele with most of the unverified claims in the infamous Russia dossier was himself investigated by the FBI on suspicions of being a spy for the Kremlin. The revelations were revealed in documents provided by Attorney General William Barr to Graham. Janita Kan contributed to this report. EDWARDSVILLE After coronavirus mandates shut down the Edwardsville and Collinsville locations for more than six months, the adult day program at St. Johns Community Care is opening its doors once again. The program reopened Thursday on a limited basis, with 12 participants at each of its facilities in Edwardsville at 1015 Century Drive and in Collinsville at 222 Goethe Ave. The program cares for individuals who are coping with memory loss or aging issues. Daily activities and therapies like music and art involve participants in stimulating interactions with others. For the past six months, weve been in touch with our families all along, providing different Zoom activities for our participants, mailing things to them and doing phone calls to see how they are doing, said Stacey Rhodes, adult day program director at St. Johns Community Care. We know the anxiety and the stress levels that the caregivers have been under and the changes that have happened to their loved ones because they have not been getting the socialization that is so beneficial to them. Opening up has been a joy, not only to our clients and their families but also to the staff. We cant be hugging and kissing like we normally do, but the smiles are back on their faces and theyre engaged. Before the pandemic, there were about 60 people enrolled in the program, but the current 25 percent capacity limit has restricted the number of participants. For now, we can only have six participants and two staff members at a time, and we have two shifts from 8 a.m. to noon and 1-5 p.m. Monday through Friday with different staff, Rhodes said. Were slowly integrating the participants back into their routine and reintroducing them to the friends that they have been away from. Everything is running smoothly and were all enjoying it. The Illinois Department of Aging approved the reopening plan for St. Johns, which includes social distancing and other measures to assure the safety of both participants and staff. The state said that we had to come up with a plan and submit it for approval and it was approved with no issues, Rhodes said. Then we heard the next day that we couldnt open with 50 percent capacity and it had to be 25 percent. Thats when we had to go into Plan B mode, and we had to rethink how we could do things with a smaller group. We came up with the two sessions, but we had to furlough some of the staff because we didnt need everybody at that time. Once our region is released from our 25 percent limitation and we go back up to 50 percent, we will slowly transition to an all-day plan and bring back staff. Rhodes realizes that the past six months have been stressful for both the program participants and for their caregivers, who were thrust into having to care for their loved ones around the clock. Some of our participants have not left the house because thats what they were told to do, and many of them are part of a high-risk population, Rhodes said. Some families have decided they do not want to return at this time until things change in our community. Ive had other families tell me that even when they know there is a risk, its worth it for their loved ones to be able to come back and be socially engaged with others. Most of the programs at St, Johns have continued throughout the pandemic, but on a virtual basis. Were doing virtual weekly activity programs for our participants in the adult day program, Rhodes said. Were going to continue that because were not able to accommodate the full number of participants in person. We also have a Zoom Memory Cafe, which is for early memory loss individuals and their caregivers. Its a fun social activity that they can do together. Another virtual program at St. Johns is Stress Busting for Caregivers, which helps show caregivers how they can deal with their stress while still taking care of their loved ones. Its a nine-week program and we give them a new stress technique every week to see what works best for them, Rhodes said. St. Johns is also doing a face-to-face Savvy Caregiver program in small, socially distanced groups to inform caregivers about dementia. Its a six-week educational program and we let caregivers know about the disease itself and how they can care for themselves while giving them a better understanding of their loved ones and their behavior, Rhodes said. If you understand them, you can deal with them a little better. St. Johns also has a medical equipment loan program, where people can obtain a variety of items. We have medical equipment that is donated to us and we clean it up and make it available to anyone in the community, Rhodes said. We have wheelchairs, walkers, bath benches, bedside commodes, crutches and incontinence supplies. For more information about the adult day program at St. Johns, visit https://stjohnscc.org/ or call 618-656-7090 (Edwardsville) or 618-344-5008 (Collinsville). PARIS With new chief executive officer Remy Baume at the helm, rock-chic accessible luxury label Zadig & Voltaire is in expansion mode. Past the shock of the initial coronavirus lockdowns, the world has emerged a faster-paced place, observed Baume in a recent interview at the brands Paris headquarters. I dont think were in an entirely new world, rather we are in the world of tomorrow, where everything moves faster, he said. More from WWD Theres a reassuring side to this its not a completely new world that we have to discover without knowing the rules, but we have just jumped two or three years ahead on certain subjects, added the executive. That includes digital business, which has gained considerable ground as people do more from home. The company is well-positioned on this front, with a fourfold increase in Internet traffic during the lockdown period, a much higher rate than competitors, estimated Baume. The executive was previously ceo of Kidiliz Group, a company that created kids clothing lines for brands like Kenzo, Paul Smith, Jean Paul Gaultier, Levis and Catimini. Recruited at the beginning of the year, Baume arrived along with a new minority investor, private equity firm Peninsula. The companys previous investor, TA Associates, helped it double in size and expand into the U.S. Zadig & Voltaire was founded in 1995 by Thierry Gillier, who remains majority owner. Baume, a business school graduate who started his career in mergers and acquisitions, noted his past position taught him about navigating a fragmented sector which he sought to consolidate in a manner similar to that of Luxottica in eyewear as well as giving him an understanding of how a variety of creative visions operate. I saw firsthand how 16 different labels worked in fashion in very different universes it was an enriching experience that serves me well here, he said. Just as he arrived in his new position, the wave of lockdowns swept through Europe and the U.S. Story continues I was lucky because the team in place is good and people knew what had to be done, he said, noting that the unusual circumstances allowed for a sped-up adapting period. The company had been doing well when he joined, with a healthy store network and overall growth of around 20 percent, explained the executive. It had also already undergone a review of collections, working to better anticipate the needs of various countries and recalibrating mens and womens collections with a tighter focus. The lockdown period prompted a review of product schedules with retail and merchandising teams, as well as discussions with suppliers which he sees as partners as factories closed. We needed to be very agile, he said. The second phase centered on reaching out to clients. During the second phase of the confinement, as we started preparing to open, the teams did a lot of clienteling, reaching out to our clients through WhatsApp and through text messaging to present the upcoming collections, he said, noting the focus was on local clients. Meanwhile, online sales reached new levels. For me, this was a big message from consumers that they want Zadig products in their lives, he asserted, noting that even during the most anxiety-ridden period, in the beginning of March, the brand saw a strong acceleration in online sales. Zadig & Voltaire previously generated around 15 percent of sales through digital channels, but now has surpassed the 20 percent level, he said, cautioning that it remains to be seen how the figures will stabilize in the future. We passed a milestone when it comes to closing the frontiers between retail and digital worlds, he noted. Baume described the brands approach to luxury as modern, emphasizing the idea of being effortless. Effortless luxury is a combination of product know-how, luxury know-how, while at the same time, its a style that suits the current environment. We want to be protected, we want to be nonchalant while conveying certain style, and we want choosing clothing to be easy, he explained. You dont need a big evening event to wear the label, he added. International expansion is a goal for the brand, particularly in China. The label has been in the country for a decade, and partnered up with I.T Group there, with 16 stores currently. When it comes to retail development, it aims to rapidly gain a critical mass for stores in China, a figure the executive pegged at around 30. Because with 30, you start having a satisfactory visibility, he said. Plans are to move quickly, which has become more urgent following the crisis. At the same time, these are long-term subjects, where you have to put things into place to have business that lasts, thats well-built, he said. He suggested it could be an advantage to be less well-known, to have a sort of fresh start, rather than having to readjust a brand message. We are very lucky to not be so well-known, its not a blank slate but compared to our maturity in Europe and the U.S., it can be an advantage, he said. Its easier to start fresh and we have original things to say in China, he added. Chinese consumers are extremely dynamic, theyre much faster than Westerners when it comes to seeking out new things, he explained, adding that Millennials tend to be more open to less-established labels than older consumers. Theyre also more self-assured when it comes to seeking fashion labels. For a new arrival which is what we consider ourselves its a pretty welcoming clientele, he said. Zadig & Voltaire joined Tmalls Luxury Pavilion in June, and is also on I.T Groups digital platform. Communication is another subject the label plans to address in that market, according to the executive, who flagged the need to communicate more with Chinese consumers noting that the label had already held fashion shows in New York. In the U.S., the brand is well represented not at the same level as in Europe, but were building our presence in a very reasonable manner, he said, adding that the focus there is more ready-to-wear than accessories, in an environment that has a different competitive landscape. The label also generates a larger proportion of business from digital channels in the U.S. compared to Europe, he explained, admitting that there was a bit of a lag in the U.S. when it comes to business picking back up. The label is on the offensive when it comes to store network expansion, even as the environment remains uncertain. We have a healthy network, we have a lot of digital growth, we have great collections, we have an enormous amount of growth in leather goods, he said. We are projecting ourselves right away at the point where we want to be in two, or three years, with a shortened timeline because in the end there are opportunities that werent available before particularly in retail, added Baume. If we distinguish between brands that are on the offensive and those who are pulling back, there are more opportunities than before, he added. What we are seeking to do is to open stores even better placed and bigger than what we had historically since we are very contemporary with a lifestyle focus, we have products to bring alive in our stores. Asked about the role of accessories at the label, he noted that the basis of the brand remains ready-to-wear, which it was founded on, and that clients expect renewal in that category. But as a contemporary label with a designer edge, our brand is fundamentally very strong, and also carries a certain legitimacy in accessories, in a larger sense, which are more timeless, he said. Accessories, including leather goods like shoes and sneakers, account for around a third of business in Europe 30 percent but less in the U.S., where there was a bit of a lag. The brand is aiming to open larger stores so it will have more space for small leather goods, shoes, jewelry, perfume and watches. Zadig & Voltaire generated around 350 million euros a year before the crisis hit. For leather goods, Baume noted that seasoned clients come to the label for a nontraditional offer while younger crowds, like students in their twenties, seek their first handbags at Zadig & Voltaire. The label launched a bag with Kate Moss last year, and recently launched prominently monogrammed styles that have started out strongly. The company recently bought cashmere knitwear label Lucien Pellat-Finet but it will remain separate from Zadig & Voltaire, said the executive, when asked about plans for the groups recent acquisition. Bringing on a designer brand is not just a question of synergies in business and finance; its also a question of understanding the human dimension of creation, he said. Charleston's 350th Commemoration In 2020, the City of Charleston and its citizens will commemorate its 350th anniversary of the arrival of English settlers from Barbados to Charles Towne Landing in 1670 and share Charlestons full and accurate story up to the present day. Throughout the year, we will honor the customs, diverse cultures, and rich heritage through a deep reflection and true representation of the citys history. POPTUN, Guatemala Hundreds of U.S.-bound Honduran migrants who had entered Guatemala this week without registering were being bused back to their countrys border Saturday by authorities who met them with a large roadblock. By 5 a.m. Saturday, none of 1,000 or so migrants who had been stalled by police and soldiers remained along a stretch of rural highway remained. Police said that hours earlier, migrants had boarded buses and army trucks to be taken back to the border. Small groups of fewer than 10 migrants each could still be found walking along the highway before the roadblock Saturday morning. Olvin Suazo, 21, was walking with three friends, all from Santa Barbara, Honduras. Were going to continue, he said. We were resting and the bigger group continued. We didnt know what happened to them. The four, all in their early 20s, are farmworkers. They heard about the caravan that formed earlier this week in San Pedro Sula via WhatsApp and Facebook. Late Friday, hundreds of migrants headed for the United States had become increasingly desperate after running into the roadblock. Seldom since 2018 had the prospects for a migrant caravan been so discouraging. Guatemalas president saw them as a contagion risk amid the coronavirus pandemic and vowed to deport them. Mexicos president speculated that the caravan was a plot to influence the U.S. elections. And newly formed Tropical Storm Gamma threatened to dump torrential rain on their planned route through southern Mexico. The senior U.S. diplomat for the Americas on Saturday praised Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei for the sustained efforts to mitigate the spread of #Covid19 and stop irregular migration. The U.S. is committed to continuing to work with our partners to save lives and protect health, tweeted Michael G. Kozak, acting assistant secretary of state for Western Hemisphere Affairs. On Friday, over 100 Guatemalan soldiers and police blocked the migrants, who became increasingly frustrated with the lack of food and forward movement after walking from Honduras earlier this week. Migrants voices rang out on the rural highway, demanding authorities either let them through or provide them food. Guatemala immigration authorities said some of the original group of about 2,000 migrants had agreed to return to Honduras, though Guatemalas vice minister of foreign relations, Eduardo Hernandez, issued a video Saturday complaining that Honduras was refusing to receive at least some of them. The others had split between two routes: Some traveled north to Peten, where the roadblock was, and others walked, hitched rides took buses west toward the capital, Guatemala City. Some had hitched rides aboard passing trucks. Wilmer Chavez, 35, got aboard the bed of one truck in his wheelchair with the help of fellow Honduran migrants. In Mexico, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador suggested Friday that the estimated 2,000 migrants who set out from San Pedro Sula, Honduras, had perhaps been organized with U.S. politics in mind. I think it has to do with the election in the United States, Lopez Obrador said. I dont have all the elements, but there are indications that it formed with that purpose. I dont know to whose benefit, but were not naive. The new group was reminiscent of a migrant caravan that formed two years ago shortly before U.S. midterm elections. It became an issue in the campaign, fueling anti-immigrant rhetoric. But on Friday, Mexicos point man on the coronavirus pandemic, Assistant Health Secretary Hugo Lopez-Gatell, sounded more conciliatory, saying the migrants didnt represent a health threat and that Mexico was morally, legally and politically obliged to help them. On Thursday, Guatemalan President Giammattei vowed to return the migrants to Honduras, citing efforts to contain the pandemic. Migrant caravans from Central America gained popularity in recent years because they provided some degree of safety in numbers and allowed those who couldnt afford to pay a smuggler to attempt the trip to the United States. At first, they received generous support from the communities they passed, especially in southern Mexico. Last year, however, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened crippling tariffs on Mexican imports if it didnt slow the flow of migrants to the U.S. border. Mexico responded by deploying the National Guard and more immigration agents to intercept large groups of migrants. The last attempted caravan was broken up by Mexican guardsmen in January. This week, Mexico has been warning that it will enforce its immigration laws and even prosecute people who knowingly put public health at risk. The U.S. has essentially closed its border to legal immigration and entering illegally is as difficult as ever. __ Associated Press writer Christopher Sherman in Mexico City contributed to this report. Pope Francis of the Vatican said in a statement that when the coronavirus pandemic ends, the worst decision that humans can make is consumerism and egoistic self-preservation. He noted that the world should think carefully of those who died due to a lack of respirators and the abolishment of healthcare year after year. Vatican on the coronavirus According to the Wall Street Journal, the 43,000-word test is only the third time that Pope Francis has written an encyclical, which is considered as one of the most authoritative genres of papal writing. It echoes several of the pope's major social teachings, such as the rights of migrants and the poor. However, Pope Francis also used the coming of the pandemic to instill hope within the public and of ordinary people such as janitors, regular employees, and medical workers who are risking their lives in the frontline trying to help as many people as they can while arguing that no one is saved alone. The pope also criticized several global issues, including racism, which he described as a social virus that was quick to evolve and is not eradicated; rather, it hides itself and waits for an opportunity to strike. With his writing, Pope Francis targeted several social plagues, which he called the dogma of neoliberal economics and how it promised prosperity. He said that the problems of the world's systems have become apparent due to the coronavirus pandemic. Pope Francis has called for the United Nations to strengthen its policies and other multilateral structures to develop a global economy that nation-states are incapable of controlling. Also Read: Pres. Donald Trump's Condition Raises Concerns After COVID-19 Diagnosis, Dropping Blood Oxygen Levels Divided global community The Vatican priest also criticized several nations for their apparent failure in cooperating with each other to fight the coronavirus pandemic, as reported by The New York Times. The encyclical writing detailed how the COVID-19 virus erupted abruptly and exposed the world's false securities. It added countries around the world were shown to have little cooperation in fighting against a global threat. Pope Francis noted that anyone who thought that the answer to the pandemic was simply improving what world nations were already doing or to develop existing systems further was sorely mistaken. The pope's encyclical titled "Brothers All" shows a similar perspective to the views on fraternity and social friendship that St. Francis of Assisi, who the Vatican papa took his name after, heavily influenced. In his writing, Pope Francis called for unity and called for the marginalization of closeness. He argued migrants should be supported, and called for the eradication of the death penalty. According to NPR, Pope Francis also criticized the Catholic Church's doctrine on war and rejecting it as a means of legitimate defense. He noted that recent years have made it difficult to justify a war and called for an end to all conflict. Before it was released, the encyclical, Fratelli Tutti, sparked widespread controversy among English speakers as not being gender-inclusive because of its translated title Brothers All. The Vatican, on the other hand, responded by explaining that the Fratelli portion represents both brothers and sisters. Related Article: Kellyanne Conway Positive for Coronavirus Along With Several High-Profile Individuals @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Sri Lanka's former president on Monday appeared before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry probing the Easter Sunday attacks and denied he was privy to prior intelligence on the deadly terror strikes. Nine suicide bombers belonging to local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat (NTJ) linked to ISIS carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and as many luxury hotels on the Easter Sunday last year, killing 258 people, including 11 Indians. The previous government headed by Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was blamed for its inability to prevent the attacks despite the prior intelligence made available on the impending attack. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who pledged an independent probe in the incident during his election campaign in November last year, continued with the same panel appointed by then president Sirisena after assuming office. The Commission issued notices to Sirisena on September 22 to testify before it on October 5. Sirisena appeared before the panel and recorded his statement for nearly 7 hours. Sirisena told the panel that he was not informed by the relevant officials on the impending attacks. He said he later learnt that intelligence had been received as early as April 4, 2019. He told the panel he went to Singapore on April 16 for a medical check-up and the then police chief Pujith Jayasundera and the then top bureaucrat of defence ministry Hemasiri Fernando had seen him off at the airport. None of them informed him on the impending attacks. He told the panel he would have taken action to stop the attacks if his officials had not kept him in the dark. Sirisena had sacked both Jayasundera and Fernando from jobs and the duo was arrested and jailed for alleged criminal negligence. Jayasundera was present when Sirisena testified alongside the then head of the state intelligence service, Nilantha Jayawardena. Jayasundera in his testimony had blamed Jayawardena for keeping him in the dark despite him being the boss. Sirisena will again appear on October 12. (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.) The vice president of an Ontario ice cream company said the decision to make its $2 per hour pandemic pay raise permanent was the right thing to do. You dont want to get into a position where, as an employer and as a leader, youre taking something away from your employees, Ashley Chapman, the vice president of Chapmans Ice Cream, said in an interview. There are so many expenses that people have been confronted with. We just want our employees to be okay throughout all this. The Markdale, Ont.-based company had first introduced a $2 per hour pay bump for its 750 production and distribution employees in mid-March, when the coronavirus pandemic prompted government-imposed lockdowns on non-essential businesses. Last week, the company decided to make that pay raise permanent, increasing the starting wage at the manufacturing facility to $18 per hour. That wage will bump up to $18.50 per hour after new employees pass a three-month probationary period. Chapman said another part of the companys consideration was ensuring that employees were making a living wage. Two years ago, the company conducted a study to determine the living wage for employees living in the Markdale, Ont. area. Chapman said the previous wage offered by the ice cream maker had met the living wage range for the area, but costs particularly related to housing have since increased. The consensus was that in our area, living wage was between $18 and $18.50 per hour. That kind of helped push the decision to make it permanent, he said. In the early days of the pandemic, Chapmans had to shut down its two production facilities for about two weeks in order to determine how to operate while adhering to proper safety procedures related to COVID-19. During that time, the company offered interest-free loans of up to $1,000 for employees. Chapman said $180,000 was loaned to workers during this time, a majority of which has been paid back. Still, the pandemic pay raise will certainly mean higher costs for the ice cream maker going forward. But Chapman said that, as a family-run business, the company is better suited to handle the increased costs. Story continues The only shareholders are people with the last name Chapman, so as a family we made this decision, he said. I cant tell you exactly how or where the money is going to come from. Were just going to make it happen. Pandemic pay controversy Three of Canadas top grocery retailers Loblaw, Metro and Empire-owned Sobeys were at the centre of public backlash this summer after ending the $2 per hour pay raise provided to grocery store workers. The companies scrapped the pay raise on the same day. Walmart Canada canceled its pay raise on an earlier date. Executives from Loblaw, Metro and Sobeys had to testify in front of a House of Commons committee over the decision to scrap the pandemic pay raises, reiterating that the cancellations were made independently, despite the fact that the changes occurred on the same day. Chapman said the backlash was not something the company took into account when deciding to make the pay raises permanent. Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android and sign up for the Yahoo Finance Canada Weekly Brief. In August, 11 staffers at the Secret Services training center in Maryland tested positive, news disclosed on Friday. Members of President Donald Trumps Secret Service detail have expressed concern about his impromptu trip to wave at supporters outside of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Sunday. That should never have happened, one current Secret Service agent working on the presidential and First Family detail said after Trumps drive-by, adding that his colleagues who went along for the ride would now be required to quarantine. A Secret Service agent stands near President Donald Trump while he speaks during a news conference in the James Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) I mean, I wouldnt want to be around them, the agent said to CNN under the condition of anonymity. The frustration with how were treated when it comes to decisions on this illness goes back before this, though. Were not disposable. Dozens of Secret Service agents were told to self-quarantine in June following a Trump rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma after two agents tested positive for the virus. Read More: Biden again tests negative for virus amid Washington outbreak In July, eight agents assigned to Vice President Mike Pence tested positive. In August, 11 people at the U.S. Secret Service training center in Maryland tested positive, news that just came to light Friday. Throughout the pandemic, the U.S. Secret Service has taken significant precautions at its training center to protect the health and welfare of its trainees and training staff, Julia McMurray, a spokeswoman for the agency, told The New York Times. Read More: Trump aims for Monday release after supporter drive-by Late Sunday afternoon, Trump ventured outside of Walter Reed, where he is convalescing after being diagnosed with COVID-19 and experienced symptoms requiring treatment, including I.V. doses of remdesivir. The president tweeted out a video message, saying that he had a surprise, and moments later, he was in a SUV motorcade seen waving to supporters who had lined the streets outside of the medical center. Story continues Trump was wearing a mask, while Secret Service agents also in his vehicle were seen in respirator masks, medical gowns and face shields. Rick Nelson, a former official on the National Security Council, explained to the Times that the risk for exposure is heightened for Secret Service agents. Theyre at higher risk than the general public because they cant do their job if theyre social distancing, he said. Have you subscribed to theGrios Dear Culture podcast? Download our newest episodes now! TheGrio is now on Apple TV, Amazon Fire and Roku. Download theGrio.today! The post Secret Service slam Trumps motorcade ride, potential exposure: Were not disposable appeared first on TheGrio. Lake Ohau in Mackenzie Country on New Zealand's South Island has been ravaged by out of control bushfire A majority of the homes in the popular tourist destination have been destroyed after fire took hold on Sunday Authorities said firefighters have managed to contain the fire despite the threat of strong winds on Monday A small tourist town on New Zealand's south island has been ravaged by bushfire, with almost all homes destroyed in a devastating blaze. Authorities say a fire which ravaged the popular tourist location of Lake Ohau has largely been contained despite forecast high winds threatening a further outbreak. ADVERTISEMENT Local mayor Gary Kircher said the majority of buildings in the hamlet, which has a regular population of 20, have been destroyed. 'It's a minor miracle that no-one has been harmed,' Mr Kircher told Radio NZ. Lake Ohau in Mackenzie Country on New Zealand's South Island has been ravaged by out of control bushfire. Pictured: a burnt out car left in the ruble from the blaze A majority of the homes in the popular tourist destination have been destroyed after the deadly fire took hold on Sunday The fire burned through the central town in Mackenzie Country in the early hours of Sunday and has destroyed up to 5,000 hectares. It is believed up to 50 homes - many mainly used as holiday homes - were destroyed or rendered uninhabitable in the blaze. Click here to resize this module Hundreds of sheep have been killed, with around 200 people checking in at an evacuation centre nearby at Twizel. Firefighting helicopters and ground crews battled to contain the fire on Monday, desperate to keep it away from key electricity infrastructure in the area amid the high wind warnings. Local mayor Gary Kircher said it was a miracle that no one was harmed in the fire. Pictured: a razed home after the fire tore through the region Authorities said firefighters (pictured) have managed to contain the fire despite the threat of strong winds on Monday The fire spread into conservation land, farms and mountainsides, forcing about 90 people to leave behind homes overnight. Fire crews used drones during the night to locate hot spots, with eleven helicopters and nine ground crews going out to target those areas on Monday morning. Fire and Emergency's Incident Commander Steve Jones told The Morning Report firefighters still had a challenging day ahead of them. 'We're having gusts of wind up to 60 kilometres an hour across the lake, so we had a lot of hot spots and flare ups and ember transfer so we were pretty careful to get onto that as quick as possible,' he said. ADVERTISEMENT 'The weather is not that conducive to good firefighting - obviously high winds, the temperature is going to get up today, humidity will drop ... which will make firefighting difficult, especially for those deep seeded embers.' Laredo City Council meets Monday evening to discuss several hot-button issues, such as the border wall, campaign reform, and the police unions collective bargaining agreement with the city. At their last meeting, Mayor Pete Saenz said he would only vote to approve the tax rate this year if the city manager could impress upon the police union that there was no money in the budget for any kind of salary adjustments. During negotiations between the city and the union last week, the citys attorney John Ferguson noted that this was a significant council meeting, and that they would not be able to propose any changes to the parts of the contract relating to officers wages; education, incentive and longevity pay; or overtime and hourly pay. Laredo Police Officers Association President Rojelio Nevarez said union members are worried. And after the city proposed that retired officers would need to increase payments to their health insurance plan, Nevarez argued that they would be coming away with a worse contract than what they started with. On Monday council will consult with the citys attorney in closed session to discuss this ongoing collective bargaining process. They will also be meeting in closed session to discuss possible litigation regarding a request from the federal government to access riverfront city property for 18 months in order to conduct surveys and possibly store equipment for the study of border wall feasibility. The city has already twice granted this right of entry access to the Department of Homeland Security. In this vein, Councilman Mercurio Martinez is requesting that City Council resolve to oppose the taking of public and private property to construct the border wall. Council has passed similar resolutions several times in the last few years, as the border wall became more and more of a possibility for Laredo. As election season enters full swing, council members George Altgelt and Nelly Vielma have a couple of items up for discussion concerning campaign ethics. Vielma is requesting to establish campaign reform requirements, periods for fundraising and limits in campaign contributions. Altgelt is proposing that the mayor and all council members submit to polygraph tests to determine if they have ever exchanged a vote for anything of personal value. He is also asking for an update on the citys investigation into the citys donation of CARES Act funding to local food banks, and if the Laredo Fire PAC misappropriated any of these funds for political benefit. Council will furthermore receive an update from Health Authority Dr. Victor Trevino on the status of COVID-19 in the community, be asked to designate Laredo Nursing and Rehab as an all-covid facility and to pay the nursing home $50,000 to $100,000 a month, depending on the number of residents being treated there. Julia Wallace may be reached at 956-728-2543 or jwallace@lmtonline.com Imagine transitioning 25,000 students to online learning. Now try humanizing that experience. Thats the goal that Anthony Perrotta, one of four vice principals at Toronto Catholic District School Boards St. Anne Catholic Academy, School of Virtual Learning, hopes to implement. The virtual learning academy was created after the COVID-19 pandemic pushed school boards to make changes to move thousands of students online. Top of mind for Perrotta and the team is to ensure that topics of anti-Black racism and equity are continual threads in the schools everyday discourse. They have high ambitions to inspire this new group of students, ranging from Grade 7 to Grade 12, to do more than just academically succeed, but to also become critical thinkers and voices in their society by not shying away from these pressing conversations. These conversations are not brave conversations, but rather necessary conversations that can provide students with a safe place to share, discern and reflect, Perrotta said. We can teach kids by being active partners in the discourse. Just a few months ago, Perrotta was still the vice principal at Chaminade Secondary School an all boys school in the citys north west end. There, he brought his filmmaking and storytelling background to inspire students to share their stories, whether it was through a discussion of colonialism after watching Black Panther or taking a field trip to watch Get Out to discuss white privilege. Though he has left the physical school behind, he doesnt want to see online learning as a disadvantage when it comes to communicating these ideas. Through discussing these topics of equity, bringing in panellists and speakers, and acquiring new tools like chat rooms to listen to his students, hes positive that technology and social media can be a place where students become better humans. As educators, we have to be intentional and authentic in what we are doing to shape such a dialogue. Wasting no time at all, one of the first things Perrotta organized was a nine-person panel conversation tackling the topic of anti-Black racism which I had the pleasure of joining. The speakers? Grade 12 student, Emmanuel Adegboyega who is the student council president of Chaminade College School and who the Star featured back in June as a young person speaking out at school about racism. Joining him, Grade 11 and 12 TCDSB student trustees Keith Baybayon and Kathy Nguyen. Though the webinars focus is on these students speaking and discussing their experiences on equity, experts like educator and consultant Dr. Marlyn Morris and TCDSB superintendent Derek Chen are also on the panel. Members of Chens department, which focuses on equity, are in attendance to support and facilitate conversations between panellists and students. With more than 800 students in attendance, the webinar gets underway, and students begin to participate in real time using the chat box to type out questions and comments. The first student question pops in: What is white privilege? As a Black male, if Im trying to get a job (I) might require a police report and someone of the white skin colour might not need that, Adegboyega says, speaking up first on the topic of white privilege. (People might say) Wow, he should be the athlete or he should be in the streets or carrying the guns, ... Theyre expecting different because of my skin colour. White people are at an advantage, he adds. Panelist Everton Lewis, a TCDSB community outreach officer working in the equity department chimes in, reading a piece his daughter wrote to her teachers to be seen more than just a stereotypical Black girl. When many of my past teachers looked at me, all they see is the stereotypical Black girl, Lewis reads. When they were focused on making me average, I was focused on being extraordinary. Lewis follows up the reading with analysis. She wants to be included, Lewis says. She wants people to get to know her. Thats (white) privilege (she doesnt have). Shes asked to be let into the circle, to be included, to have access to those opportunities those life-changing (opportunities) for succeeding, he adds. These are the types of discussions I wish that I had when I was in high school. Before the panel started, us adults discussed how much the school environment and conversation has changed. Why did we think it was cool not to care about anything in high school, one speaker said. I wish I had these critical thinking convos when I was younger, another added. It took a lot of self unlearning and learning for me to finally understand intersectionality, while these students are learning about it in their teenage years through listening to the lived, human experience of others. During the webinar, Dr. Morris, who Perrotta calls a mentor and inspiration to his own educational journey, shares the invisibility she experiences being a Black woman. I came here with all my accolades. Never got a job in this Canadian society. Its a gender thing. Its a woman thing. And its also because Im a Black woman, she says. Black lives matter right now because theyre being ignored. Because theyre Black and invisible. As the discussions continue, students in the comment section begin debating the phrase all lives matters. Even among adults, discourse around this phrase sees heated and hateful exchanges. The panel decides to tackle the uncomfortable conversation head on and embrace the opportunity to educate. Absolutely 100 per cent all lives matter. But lets look at the people shot, killed on the street, being discriminated against and so on and so on. Its not all lives, its a particular life, Lewis says. Yes all lives matter, but the people who are dying look like me. Adegboyega joins in: Its signifying that the Black community needs the world to realize that they matter too. Those feeling some type of way about the Black Lives Matter campaign being pushed a lot, its not negating the fact that you matter too, its just showing that we matter too. From the beginning of planning these discussions, Perrotta has always wanted students to share their experiences. Online learning provides students the chance to appear as speakers and storytellers to a larger group than in-class presentations. More now than ever, students want to be heard and we have to actively listen and empower them to share, whether online or face-to-face, he says. That includes listening about how to be a better ally, the last question the panel addresses. If you really want to be an ally to your friends, maybe even ask them what you need to do as an ally to really help them. To bring their voices into the light, because you dont have to start at a colossal rate, start with your bubble, Nguyen, one of the student trustees on the panel, says to her peers. One has to be more attentive to whats happening in the world. Theres so much work that needs to be done. I know it seems impossible, but that doesnt mean you dont try ensuring that everyone that has an equal chance of reaching their full potential, Baybayon, also a student trustee, adds. One of the biggest parts of Perrottas online learning goal is to ensure that students know who is behind shaping their education. Thats why, as the webinar conversation shifts into what it means to be an ally, Perrotta chimes in, sharing his own experience. Its a real privilege to be a part of this conversation, Perrotta says. Even when I hear Everton speak about his daughter, its a lot to process because it makes me think about my daughter and how she would never have to fight to be included. Its on me to ensure my girls learn how to support (their classmates), Perrotta says. Even as the session hits the hour and a half mark, students seem to be taking to the message. This is possibly the best discussion weve had this week, thank you to the panel for addressing these issues, a students comment reads. That is very true, the youth can make a change in the world by using their social platform as a start, another says. Well need a part two for this, Perrotta assures the participants. Whats next for this school? St. Anne students can expect upcoming movie days, including a viewing of Locks, a student film by Black Panther director Ryan Coogler, and Barefoot, a film by Indigenous filmmaker Danis Goulet. These films will be followed by discussions on intersectionality, colonialism and systemic racism. Although online learning has seen its bumps and ups and downs with people stuck on mute or laggy internet, Perrotta and the team at St. Annes have found harmony in using technology to humanize conversations to hundreds of high school students. Its inspiring young people to think about each other, grow empathetically, and discuss topics that even those who lead are country have a difficult time to address. What Im most proud of is that were all committed to the humanized experience of virtual learning and want nothing but the best for our students as learners and people, Perrotta says. For us, this experience is not COVID emergency remote learning, but rather an intentional opportunity to reimagine what online learning can be for students and their families. On paper, this contest was supposed to be a competitive and offer a chance for the Missouri Democratic Party to start capitalizing on national trends . . . BUT NOBODY COUNTED ON NICHOLE GALLOWAY BEING SO BORING!!! Public radio can try as they might to encourage their smarty-pants listener to donate more cash . . . But Auditor Galloway's lack of charisma and unwillingness to say anything memorable, fun or interesting is what lost this for Missouri Democrats who once again blew a perfectly good chance to gain ground by thinking they could tip-toe around indentity politics that have shaken this nation it is core. Here's some whisper coverage to balance out this rant: HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Wolf today issued an emergency order suspending the statutory deadline provision in the COVID Relief-Mortgage and Rental Assistance Grant Program. The deadline under section 191-C(g)(3) of Act 24 of 2020 originally scheduled for Sept. 30 was stayed by the governor, effective today, for 30 days until Nov. 4, 2020, in order for the program to be able to continue accepting applications. The governor's order is available at: https://www.phfa.org/forms/pacares/executiveorder/mortgage-rental-assistance-program-order.pdf. The CARES assistance programs for Pennsylvania renters and homeowners have been reopened and will be accepting applications until Nov. 4. All eligibility requirements remain the same as they were when the programs ended on Sept. 30. Work will continue on applications submitted prior to Oct. 1, and new applications will be added to the pool of submissions undergoing review. Renters and homeowners who were financially impacted by the economic slowdown related to the coronavirus pandemic can immediately access applications for rent and mortgage relief via the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency's website at www.PHFA.org. They should look for the red CARES banner on the PHFA homepage. PHFA is administering both programs. "We appreciate this extra time to help more Pennsylvanians receive rental and mortgage assistance and maintain their housing," said PHFA Executive Director and CEO Robin Wiessmann. "Our agency prepared for this contingency, so we were able to immediately relaunch both programs once we received word about the governor's emergency order." CARES Rent Relief Program The eligibility requirements for renters remain the same as they were previously. For renters to be eligible for financial assistance under the CARES Rent Relief Program (RRP), they will need to document at least a 30% reduction in annual income since March 1 related to COVID-19, or they must have become unemployed after March 1. If unemployed, they must have filed for unemployment compensation with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. Their household income cannot exceed the Area Median Income for their county of residence, adjusted for the number of people in their home. Renters who qualify may receive assistance equal to 100% of their monthly rent up to $750 a month for a maximum of six months of assistance for the time period between March 1 and December 31, 2020. Payments will be made to their landlord on their behalf. Renters or landlords can apply for rent relief for apartment tenants, but renters are responsible for submitting all the documents needed to ensure their eligibility. PHFA will continue to partner with the same organizations in all 67 counties that will process all rent relief applications. As before, people will submit their applications and supporting paperwork to these county organizations for review. Pandemic Mortgage Assistance Program Homeowners who became unemployed after March 1 or who suffered at least a 30% reduction in annual income due to reduced work hours and wages related to COVID-19 may be eligible for financial assistance to help with missed mortgage payments. To qualify for the Pandemic Mortgage Assistance Program (PMAP), they must be an owner-occupant of their residence, the dwelling must consist of one or two separate units, and the homeowner's annual household income must not exceed the Area Median Income for their county of residence, adjusted for the number of people in their home. Homeowners should note that their mortgage does not have to be 30 days delinquent for them to qualify for assistance. The assistance available for homeowners can be up to $1,000 a month for a maximum period of six months. The time period eligible for assistance is for mortgage payments owed from March 2020 through December 2020. As it was handled previously, financial assistance payments through this program will be made directly to the mortgagee. Homeowners or their lenders can apply for mortgage relief, but homeowners are responsible for providing all the documents needed to determine their eligibility. Helpful Resources The agency's call center is available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to assist the public and help with questions about the programs. The toll-free number is 1-855-U-Are-Home (827-3466). Callers should listen for the prompt mentioning CARES assistance for renters and homeowners. The county organizations to which CARES applications are submitted have webpages offering useful information and can also be contacted with questions. The Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, passed in March, provided $3.9 billion for Pennsylvania and is intended to help people hurt economically during the pandemic. In late May, the General Assembly directed $175 million of these CARES dollars to PHFA to provide assistance for struggling renters and homeowners. The portion for rent assistance is at least $150 million, and $25 million was set aside for mortgage assistance. The CARES funding for renters and homeowners must be completely distributed by Nov. 30, 2020. About PHFA The Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency works to provide affordable homeownership and rental housing options for older adults, low- and moderate-income families, and people with special housing needs. Through its carefully managed mortgage programs and investments in multifamily housing developments, PHFA also promotes economic development across the state. Since its creation by the legislature in 1972, it has generated nearly $15 billion of funding for more than 180,750 single-family home mortgage loans, helped fund the construction of 138,000 rental units, distributed more than $121 million to support local housing initiatives, and saved the homes of nearly 50,400 families from foreclosure. PHFA programs and operations are funded primarily by the sale of securities and from fees paid by program users, not by public tax dollars. The agency is governed by a 14-member board. Media contact: Scott Elliott [email protected] 717-649-6522 (cell) SOURCE Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency Related Links http://www.PHFA.org SRINAGAR: Unidentified terrorists on Monday (October 5) attacked and opened fire on the 110 Battalion Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), who along with Jammu and Kashmir Police were carrying out road opening duty at Kandijhal Bridge in Pampore in Pulwama district. According to reports, two CRPF jawans succumbed to their injuries while three others are undergoing medical treatment at a Srinagar-based Army Hospital Earlier, a CRPF official said, "Terrorists attacked security forces on National Highway near Kandizaal area in Pampore in Pulwama district in which five soldiers were injured. The area was immediately cordoned off and a search operation was launched to nab the terrorists." Jammu and Kashmir: Five CRPF jawans injured after terrorists fired upon road opening party (ROP) of CRPF at Pampore bypass. They have been evacuated to District Hospital. More details awaited. (Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/zvK4ls05F3 ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2020 The CRPF official said that terrorists carried out the attack on forces near Kandizal bridge area of Pampore. Live TV An investigation into a central Queensland aged care nurse who sparked a rapid health response after testing positive to COVID-19 has found the woman did not breach public health restrictions. Officials had previously said they believed the North Rockhampton Nursing Centre worker had contracted the virus during a trip to Brisbane and had been infectious from May 3, developing symptoms two days later. The North Rockhampton Nursing Centre, which was the centre of a COVID-19 scare after the nurse tested positive in May. Credit:Google Maps The nurse returned a positive test on May 14 after working a number of shifts and returning to the site after being sent for testing. Extensive testing of the centre's 270 residents and staff failed to detect any additional case. Queensland Health Director-General John Wakefield said the investigation found the public health response was "appropriate" to prevent an outbreak at the centre. Schultz is the first faculty member to receive the title at Hamline University. "It is my honor to name David Schultz the first Hamline University Distinguished Professor," said President Miller. "He has achieved at the very highest levels in academia, and has established himself nationally and internationally as a sought-after expert all while serving our students and contributing to the university community." "David Schultz's record of accomplishment speaks for itself," said Hamline Board of Trustees Chair Brenda Edmondson Heim '77. "He is known around the world for his expertise in the American political and judicial processes and we are fortunate to be able to give our students the benefits of that expertise. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I extend my warmest congratulations." A lifelong scholar, Professor Schultz holds multiple graduate degrees, including doctorates in political science and law from the University of Minnesota, an advanced post-Juris Doctor degree from the University of London and master degrees in philosophy, political science and astronomy. As a professor in the political science department at Hamline University, he has taught classes in American politics, public policy and administration, and ethics. Schultz holds an appointment at the University of Minnesota law school and teaches election law, state constitutional law, and professional responsibility. He has authored or edited 30 books,12 legal treatises, and more than 100 articles on topics including civil service reform, election law, eminent domain, constitutional law, public policy, legal and political theory, and the media and politics. In addition to more than 25 years teaching, he has worked in government as a director of code enforcement and for a community action agency as an economic and housing planner. SOURCE Hamline University Related Links hamline.edu AG Nessel Joins 18-state Coalition Opposing South Carolina's Witness Requirement for Mail-in Ballots AG Nessel Joins 18-state Coalition Opposing South Carolina's Witness Requirement for Mail-in Ballots October 5, 2020 LANSING Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel today announced she has joined a group of 18 state attorneys general in supporting a challenge to a South Carolina law that requires a witness signature for voters to cast their ballots by mail. The lawsuit, filed by a group of South Carolina voters and political organizations, claims the witness requirement puts the health and safety of voters at risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a friend-of-the-court brief filed in Middleton v. Andino in the U.S. Supreme Court, the multistate coalition opposes the requirement, arguing that states have a responsibility to tailor their election rules to protect voter participation and voter safety during the pandemic. The brief, filed two days after defendants sought Supreme Court intervention, also argues that voter fraud is extremely rare, and there is no evidence that a witness signature for mail-in ballots prevents fraud. This law only makes it more burdensome for people to vote absentee, which is unacceptable considering our nations public health emergency, Nessel said. We must ensure voters have the ability to participate in our elections without jeopardizing their health to do so, and mail-in voting is a secure and commonsense way to do that. South Carolinas witness requirement is an unnecessary obstacle and it should be removed from the democratic process. In May 2020, a group of South Carolina voters and political organizations filed a lawsuit challenging a state absentee voting requirement because the requirement would put their health at risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. The provision requires absentee voters to swear and affirm, in the presence of a witness, that they are qualified to vote, have not yet voted, are returning their ballot in the designated envelope, signed the envelope, and received no improper assistance. The district court issued a preliminary injunction blocking the requirement for the June 2020 primaries and subsequently blocked the provision for the general election as well. The defendants appealed to the Fourth Circuit, which, after considering the case as a full court, declined to stay the district courts injunction. The defendants then moved for a stay at the Supreme Court on Thursday, and the multistate coalition filed a brief opposing this stay on Saturday. In the amicus brief, the coalition supports the plaintiffs challenge to South Carolinas vote-by-mail witness requirement because: States have a responsibility to protect voter participation and voter safety: The Supreme Court has recognized that states have the power to regulate elections and must do so in ways that preserve the right to vote. During the pandemic, states and localities have taken reasonable, commonsense steps to minimize in-person interactions for voters. Most states are permitting all voters to vote by mail amid the pandemic; many have sent vote-by-mail applications to every registered voter; and others plan to affirmatively send ballots to all registered voters. Other states haveeither temporarily or permanentlyabolished notarization and witness requirements for mail-in ballots. Voter fraud is rare and there is no evidence that witness requirements are needed to prevent it: As a general matter, vote-by-mail fraud is exceptionally rare. Five statesColorado, Hawaii, Oregon, Utah and Washingtonalready had all-mail voting systems prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, in which every registered voter receives a ballot in the mail. None of these states require a witness signature, and yet none has encountered widespread voter fraud since shifting to mail-in ballots. States have mechanisms to protect the integrity of elections other than witness requirements: States have several mail-in voting safeguards available to them, including using ballots with a unique bar code that, once returned and scanned, prevent the voter from casting another ballot in the election. States also generally require voters to include their signature on the ballot envelope, which can be matched against information from voter rolls to verify their identity. Another common layer of security are secure drop-off locations which help maintain a chain of custody for mail-in ballots. Attorney General Nessel joins the attorneys general of California, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia and Washington in filing the friend-of-the-court brief. ### Ryan Jarvi 517-599-2746 Attorney General Crane Park and Lyman Park are among the most common sites for large public gatherings, but St. Helenans also cherish their neighborhood parks as peaceful places to relax, play or enjoy a picnic. In this article, Mariam Hansen, research director for the St. Helena Historical Society, looks back at the origins of three of those parks and at the people who made them happen. Lewis Station Park Lewis Station Park came about as a community project with land offered by Rosa Lee Lewis next to her home on Church Street. Rosa Lee was born in South Carolina in 1894. She moved to St. Helena in 1962 and bought her property on Church Street from Lavant Wood. The St. Helena Chamber of Commerce Beautification Committee wanted to add more parks to our town. The effort was led by Jean Michels. The City Council approved the proposed new park in March 1971 after the Chamber offered to create the park and maintain it for two years. Ken Granger appeared before the council and said Lewis had offered the land for beautification. Norm Manzer introduced Ms. Lewis at the Chamber of Commerce dinner in January 1974, saying that she wanted her land to be a park. Southern Pacific Railroad donated an odd sliver of land. The park was funded by the contributions from residents. Landscape architect Jack Chandler designed and donated the plans. Donations of labor and materials contributed to making the project a true citizens park: such as Gene Graff, who did the plumbing. At last the community work party was held on April 3, 1975. Under the leadership of Nell Neil and Jean Michels, volunteers built the park, including the Rutherford 4H, Dr. George Clark and Doyle Taylor. Jack Porterfield donated an antique railroad track switch. At a dedication ceremony in October 1975, Lewis cut the ribbon, opening the park with the help of Jean Michels. Councilman Mel Varrelman accepted the park on behalf of the city as Mayor Greta Ericson could not attend. A few years later, carver Bob Zagar created a beautiful wood sign for the park saying Lewis Station Park, which is no longer there. Sadly, the park has a well-worn look today. Lewis sold her home to the Lopez family in 1989 and moved to Oakland,where she died a year later. She is buried in St. Helena Cemetery. Starr Baldwin Park Many people pass by the passive pocket park on Spring Street with hardly a notice. There is no sign. The park is named for longtime St. Helena Star editor Edward Starr Baldwin. He began working for his mother, Lola, who was publisher/editor of the Star, in 1934. He inherited the paper in 1963 and continued until his death in 1984. Baldwin was synonymous with the Star omnipresent at all community events with his camera. In 1980 developer Edward Wallis bought a previous owners housing project on Mitchell Drive. Wallis St. Helena Park project included 120 units, of which 36 were in the initial phase. The project included space for a park dedicated to the city, but built and maintained for a time by the developer. The projects second phase required the developer to build the park or pay a park fee. The St. Helena Planning Commission chose the name Starr Baldwin Park in 1980 before the park was built. Completion was delayed when the original developer went bankrupt and Noyer Wally Real Estate Development of Corte Madera bought the land from the bank. Noyer Wally proposed to develop a turnkey park with landscaping, benches and trees. The city asked for specific information on the types of trees and ground cover. In March 1989 the Planning Commission approved the park plans. Neighbors were concerned about nighttime lighting shining on their homes. They also wanted crushed granite pathways to deter skateboarders and wanted the park design to consider possible Spring Creek flooding. Picnic tables were banned because they could attract tourists, but a drinking fountain and benches were included. Just as the City Council was to approve the park, some residents petitioned the council to include a toddler playground. This sent the plans back to the Planning Commission for more hearings. The Parks and Recreation Commission decided not to include a toddler playground because it would be noisy and the park was to be a passive park. A sandbox was nixed due to feral cats. Noyer Wally agreed to pay into the citys recreation fund instead. The council finally approved Starr Baldwin Park in October 1989 and the park opened on Nov. 4, 1989, with a ribbon-cutting by Mayor John Aquila. Today Starr Baldwin Park is a quiet passive park. The St. Helena Beautification Foundation planted many of the trees. There are picnic tables with nary a tourist in sight. The paths are asphalt and several memorial benches line them. Mary Elizabeth Fryer Park Mary Elizabeth Fryer was the chairman (a term she insisted on) of the St. Helena Planning Commission from 1978 to 1994. Fryer was legendary for her blunt comments and compelling personality. She brought a wealth of experience to zoning and city issues to her post. In April 1991 the council approved a 40-home development on Mitchell Drive. The homes could not be occupied until a signal was built at the intersection of Main, Mitchell and Pope. The future park was part of this plan. In March 1993 some residents claimed the playground at the park would be too dangerous because it was under a power line. At the time electromagnetic fields were feared to cause cancer. After being told the field was less than that of an electric can opener, the council proceeded. Construction of the houses began in December 1992. St. Helena entered a period of low rainfall and by fall 1994 had to cut back on the lawns at the Wallis park and Starr Baldwin Park. In October 1994 the City Council voted to name the park after Fryer in appreciation of her years as member and chairman of the Planning Commission. She held that office during the entire Wallis development process. On July 3, 1995, Mary Elizabeth Fryer Park on Mitchell Drive was dedicated and given to the city. Fryer promised, in her usual no-nonsense way, to make the formal part of the event short and sweet. Edward and Marilyn Wallis placed a bronze plaque at the entrance to the park. It reads, Mary Elizabeth Fryer Park Donated to the City of St. Helena by Marilyn and Edward Wallis and the families of Ann Milton Wallis December 1994. Watch Now: Irene Perez on St. Helena Preschool For All Mariam Hansen is research director at St. Helena Historical Society. She can be reached at research.shstory@gmail.com. (Natural News) Jame OKeefes Project Veritas has struck again, this time at the campaign of Minnesota leftist Congresswoman Rep. Ilhan Omar. (Article by J. Christian Adams republished from PJMedia.com) OKeefes latest video documents an Omar campaign helper, Liban Mohamed, speaking in front of a carload of absentee ballots: Money is everything. Money is the king in this world. If you got no money, you should not be here, period. You know what i am saying? Money is everything and a campaign is managed by money. . . . Numbers do not lie. Numbers do not lie. You can see my car is full. All these here are absentee ballots. Cant you see? Look at all these, my car is full. Minnesota law limits the number of absentee ballots that a person other than the voter can have to three. The Project Veritas investigation found three locations inside Ward 6, a ballot harvesting triangle, where the scheme operates: the Riverside Plaza apartments, the senior citizen community at Horn Towers, and the Minneapolis Elections and Voter Services office at 980 E. Hennepin Ave., which also functions as a voting location and ballot drop-off site. Hennepin County Attorney Jeff Wojciechowski told a Project Veritas journalist on a recorded line that the ballot harvesting conduct described to him was: Illegal, and we will be investigating. OKeefe presents witnesses on camera who admit that absentee ballots are being filled out by people who work for Rep. Ilhan Omar. Watch the full video here. Read more at: PJMedia.com 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. 10/02/2020 By David Perry Its the busy season for Josh Dyck, director of the Center for Public Opinion at UMass Lowell. An associate professor of political science, Dyck oversees the centers expanding polling operation, which includes surveys in battleground states this election cycle. Center for Public Opinion polls are routinely used far and wide by news organizations to show momentum in a variety of races, including the presidential contest. Through polling, Dyck takes the public pulse and gauges the political temperature of a deeply divided American public. This fall, there are added twists a pandemic, deep racial and political fissures, more mail-in ballots than ever before, and a president casting doubt on the process. Despite the chaos and uncertainty surrounding the presidential campaign, Dyck believes well know on Nov. 3 who will hold the nations top office. We caught up with him as the presidential election entered the home stretch and as he waited to sift through a batch of fresh data. Q: Voting has always seemed like a Norman Rockwell moment, a sacred American duty. Has it now been weaponized by those who cast doubt on the voting process and on the legitimacy of the results? A: There are three critical parts to having a functioning democracy. The first is that the choices have to be real. You cant have a sham election where you coronate a dictator. The second is the voting system and the results have to be fair and legitimate, and they must be seen as fair and legitimate. The third is that the losers have to consent to be governed once its all over. When a candidate, politician or political party decide as a matter of strategy to cast doubt on election results before the election has even begun as a means to hedge their bets, it does unbelievable harm to the democratic fabric. The shame in all of this is that our voting process works very well and empirical political scientists have found no evidence of significant fraud or abuse of the voting process. Q: We hear a lot about mailed ballots being a potential problem. Is voting by mail any riskier than voting in person, in terms of ballot security? A: Im going to give a two-part answer to this question. So, the first part of this answer is that there are many states in this country that run very successful all-mail elections and have for years, decades even. This includes Oregon, Washington and Colorado. From a ballot security standpoint, theres not much of an issue with fraud or abuse. However, there is some concern that local election officials have considerable power to decertify ballots that are not completed correctly. For instance, many people who have never voted by mail forget to sign their ballot or use the security envelope provided. I recommend that those voting by mail double check all the instructions, mail their ballots back at least two weeks ahead of time, or, better yet, hand deliver your ballot to your local election official. Q: Are you seeing any trends or marked differences from 2016 or 2018 in your pre-election polling? A: Youll have to wait and see, but we will be very busy this October. One thing I can say is that I expect turnout to be very high. This is a very enthusiastic electorate. Q: Do you think it will come down to one state deciding the election? If so, which state? A: No, I dont. I expect that we will know the final result before midnight on election night. If there is a single decisive state, it is likely to be Pennsylvania. Q: Do you think the election may be decided by a demographic group? A: Generally, I think too much attention if often paid to demographic changes from election to election or to pinning electoral fortunes to a single group. This is a retrospective election on Donald Trump and it will ultimately be decided by his approval rating, his handling of COVID-19, his handling of police violence and protests, and his handling of the economy. Those are the issues of this election. However, I am very interested in how the growing Latino electorate affects the ultimate disposition of the vote in two states: Arizona and Texas. If Biden wins either of these states, its because the demographics of the electorates in those states have been shifting year over year. Q: Many states like Massachusetts have adopted expanded mail-in/absentee voting and early voting laws this year, in response to COVID-19. What do you expect the impact of those changes will have on voter turnout? A: This answer will likely surprise some people, but the research on early/absentee voting is that it largely conveniences people who would vote anyhow and doesnt do much to increase turnout. In a pandemic, it makes a lot of sense to give people greater flexibility in how they vote, but I expect this, like 2016, to be a high turnout election, somewhere around 60-plus percent of the eligible voter population. Early/mail-in/absentee voting will help keep voting rates high by keeping those who might be scared off by COVID-19 in the electorate, but they wont help them go any higher. Q: As we grow more and more technologically savvy, were taking longer to determine a winner for president. When do you think we will actually learn who wins the 2020 presidential race? A: Its taking longer because we are closely divided, and because we have worked to convenience voters at the expense of expediency. But I still think were going to know the winner on election night before midnight, Eastern time. I know its possible for protracted counting to go on, but I dont think the election will be decided by a single state, and the news networks, using exit polls and available returns, are likely to be able to call enough states on election night to project the winner. If youre reading between the lines here, another way to read this is that Im not sure this election is that close. Q: What is your biggest nightmare scenario for Nov. 3? A: That this election is not won decisively by the votes of the American public and that we end up within what legal scholar Rick Hasen has called the margin of litigation. The best outcome for our country is for Joe Biden or Donald Trump to win the election decisively, based on the votes of the people. Any other outcome is likely to have very bad implications. Q: What do you view as the most challenging aspect of polling this year? A: The Center for Public Opinion has expanded its polling operation in 2020. In 2016, we were a regional pollster doing swing state polling in a single state. In 2020, we will be focusing on several swing states, polling them multiple times, and also doing national polling work. We (Associate Director John Cluverius and I) are very, very busy. Q: If the election were held today, who do you think would win the presidency? A: If the election were held today, Biden would win. Hes in a better position today than (Hillary) Clinton was vis-a-vis Trump in 2016. Of course, Clinton was a 3-to-1 favorite at this point in 2016. Looking at the polls, I think Biden is closer to a 6-to-1 favorite today. Part of (my thinking) is based on looking at polls and part of this is my looking at Trump. Hes an incumbent running for re-election without ever having a positive approval rating. In 2016, he ran against a candidate who also had a net negative favorability rating. In 2020, hes running against a candidate with a net positive favorability rating. Trump gets poor marks for how he has handled COVID-19 and how he has responded to protests about police violence in this country. He gets better marks on his handling of the economy, but the second quarter of 2020 saw minus 32 percent growth and the current unemployment rate is 8.4 percent. If he were re-elected under these circumstances, it would be truly remarkable, unprecedented even. DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - Oman has sent an ambassador to Syria after an eight-year hiatus, the state news agency reported, the latest sign of deepening engagement between Gulf Arab states and Syrias President Bashar Assad. The move on Sunday made Oman the first Gulf Arab state to reinstate its ambassador to Syria since the eruption of the countrys ruinous civil war. In 2012, Oman and other Gulf Arab countries withdrew their ambassadors in protest of the Syrian governments violent suppression of a year-old uprising. Other Arab states shuttered their embassies but Oman, known for its neutrality and diplomacy between regional foes, kept its open throughout the years of conflict. During the ambassadors reception in Damascus, Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem expressed pride in Omani foreign policy and appreciation for the close fraternal relations between the countries, according to Omans state news agency. Omans new ambassador, Turki bin Mahmood al-Busaidy, said he looks forward to expanding the paths of co-operation and shared interests between the two brotherly countries, the statement added. Syria was expelled from the 22-member Arab League in 2011, and Arab countries have sanctioned Damascus and condemned its use of military force against the opposition. Yet with the war winding down and the Syrian army recapturing most of the territory once lost to the opposition, a few Arab countries that had once boycotted Assad and backed his opposition are now pursuing a quiet rapprochement with his government. The Syrian opposition, which now only controls one overpopulated stretch of territory in northwestern Syria, is mainly supported by Turkey, a rival of the United Arab Emirates and other Arab countries because of its embrace of regional Islamists. The UAE reopened its embassy in Damascus in 2018 but the embassy representation remains at the level of charge daffaires, though the reopening is considered a gateway to closer ties. Both Modi and Xi have attended all summit meetings of the BRICS in the last few years. The two leaders had held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the summit in Brazil last year. New Delhi: For the first time since the standoff between Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to come face-to-face virtually at the BRICS annual summit to be held on 17 November. Russia, the chair of the five-nation BRICS, announced on Monday that the annual summit of the bloc will be held on 17 November via video conference. The BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) is known as an influential bloc that represents over 3.6 billion people, or half of the world's population. The BRICS countries have a combined GDP of $16.6 trillion. "The theme of the meeting of the leaders of BRICS countries is 'BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth'," the Russian government said in a statement. Both Prime Minister Modi and President Xi have attended all summit meetings of the BRICS in the last few years. Modi and Xi are attending the virtual summit, said a diplomat, involved in the arrangements for the multilateral event. Last year, the BRICS summit had taken place in Brazilia, the capital city of Brazil. Modi and Xi also held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the summit. India and China are locked in a bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh since early May that has significantly strained bilateral ties. Both sides have held a series of diplomatic and military talks to resolve the row. However, no breakthrough has been achieved to end the standoff. The Russian statement also said, "this year the five countries have continued close strategic partnership on all the three major pillars: peace and security, economy and finance, cultural and people-to-people exchanges." Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin, said despite the current global situation due to the spread of the coronavirus infection, the activities under Russia's BRICS chairmanship were consistent. "Since January, more than 60 events have been organized, including via videoconferencing. The BRICS Summit will be the jewel-in-the-crown event of the Russian BRICS chairmanship, which will provide an impetus for further strengthening cooperation together with our partners to ensure the well-being of BRICS countries," Kobyakov said. Political leaders in the Liverpool region have announced 40 million in emergency funding for struggling pubs, bars and restaurants amid the latest Covid restrictions. Council leaders from Liverpool, Wirral, St Helen's, Sefton, Halton and Knowsley - which make up the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority - urged businesses to postpone decisions over jobs and closures as they were scrambling to find funds to help them. The sector reportedly brings in an estimated 5 billion for the region and supports more than 50,000 jobs in 4,000 businesses. Last week, health secretary announced tighter restrictions for parts of northern England, including Liverpool, which means people from different households are banned from meeting inside, including in pubs, bars and restaurants. Today, the combined authority has announced they have put together the 40 million care package for the industries hit hardest by the region's latest Covid restrictions, according to the Liverpool Echo. Council leaders in the Liverpool region have announced 40 million in emergency funding for the area's hospitality sector to help them survive the latest restrictions brought in last week In a joint statement, speaking directly to businesses in the sector, the leaders of the region said: 'The new Covid-19 restrictions will make the already perilous situation for our economy even tougher than it already is. 'As Leaders of the Liverpool City Region, we all understand why further restrictions may be needed to halt the spread of Covid-19 in the communities we represent. 'But we also know that at the same time they will deal a hammer blow to our economy and in particular to our vital hospitality and leisure sector, on which over 50,000 jobs depend across our region. 'We want to send a message to those businesses that we understand the pain you are going through, your fight to survive and that we stand with you. 'We have made it clear to the Government that with new restrictions must come a comprehensive package of financial support for our economy and that this is particularly urgent for businesses in your sector, many of which have already reached breaking point. 'We pledge to you that we are doing everything we can to convince the Government to help. 'But we know that this is not enough and that words will not help you pay your staff, your rent or your suppliers. 'And, as elected leaders, we are collectively committed to Build Back Better from Covid-19. 'But we know that once a business is gone it is gone and that if we do not act now to protect our economy from these new restrictions, we risk having nothing to build back from. Liverpool (pictured) and surrounding areas is facing restrictions on people from different households meeting inside which includes their homes as well as pubs and restaurants 'So, our teams have worked at full-tilt, in partnership across the Combined Authority and our six Local Authorities, to identify and re-purpose funds for an up to 40m in to a package of emergency interim financial support, aiming to support as many businesses in the hospitality and leisure sector as we possibly can. 'We have taken this extremely difficult decision with the aim of providing last resort, stop-gap funding to keep viable businesses going in the short-term and protect as many jobs as possible while we continue to lobby the Government to invest in our economic survival and our future recovery.' It comes as tighter restrictions have been brought in for large parts of northern England. According to the new rules, It is now illegal to meet people indoors from other households in the Liverpool City Region, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough and Warrington. This means that people are prevented from mixing with those outside their household or support bubble in pubs, restaurants and other indoor venues. YORK It was with heartfelt appreciation and honor that Dale Olson and Gerald Pete Peterson accepted their inductions into the York Area Ag Hall of Fame on Sunday, Oct. 4, during a special ceremony held at the Wessels Living History Farm. The York Area Ag Hall of Fame was created by the York News-Times in 1999, as a way to honor influential people in York Countys rich agricultural history. The intent was and continues to be to memorialize the stories of local people who played a major role in the biggest part of the local/state economy and heritage agriculture. Each year, residents submit nominations. Two inductees are selected and the York News-Times writes their stories which are published and included on the plaques. One large plaque is added to the Ag Hall of Fame wall, which is in the antique tractor display building on the farm. The plaques honoring Olson and Peterson joined 74 others and will hang there forever for the public to see. And another plaque is presented each year to the inductees or their families which they can then keep. Sundays event was held in the historic church at the Wessels Farm, with a number of people from the community as well as family members in attendance. The recruitment company Indeed has informed more than 1,000 Irish staff that the majority will be allowed work from home indefinitely, either partly or fully. The job site was one of the first major employers in Ireland to send people home due to the Covid outbreak in February. With two Dublin-based offices, the company said that it will allow the vast majority of its staff to work in either a hybrid or remote format. Read More Employees will be notified of which category their role is in, and will choose how they want to work, the company said in a statement. The vast majority of employees will qualify for hybrid work or fully remote, and all of Indeed remains remote until July 2021." A hybrid model entails some time in the office and some at home. Fully remote means working from home full time. However, a spokesperson for Indeed declined to confirm that a majority of its staff would be allowed to avail of the fully remote option, only stating that the vast majority could avail of one of the two options. The spokesperson also said that remote working does not allow staff to leave the country or relocate to adjacent jurisdictions such as Northern Ireland. Indeed previously announced that no employee will be required to return to the office before July 2021, the company statement said. However there are no plans to switch permanently to an entirely remote workforce and offices will reopen when it is safe to do so. Indeed plans to prioritise certain employees when returning to the office, for example those who have expressed a high degree of eagerness to come back to the office and have indicated hardship factors with working from home. Irish-based tech multinational companies were among the first large organisations to operate a mass home-working policy. However, Dublins largest tech employers, Google and Facebook, both say that they plan to keep their physical office portfolio here and do not intend to move to a majority home-working system. Last week, a report from the stockbroking firm Davy suggested that thousands of Google Dublin workers had relocated to other countries during the Covid lockdown. Sources within Google said the report was inaccurate, citing their employment rules that generally disallow long term remote working from outside the country. By PTI NEW DELHI: The Indian Army has built a memorial for its 20 personnel who were killed while valiantly fighting Chinese troops in Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh on June 15, official sources said on Saturday. The memorial, located at Post 120 in eastern Ladakh and inaugurated earlier this week, mentions the heroics of the 'Gallants of Galwan' under operation 'Snow Leopard' and the way they evicted the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) troops from the area while inflicting "heavy casualties" on them in "hand-to-hand combat". China is yet to disclose the number of its soldiers killed and injured in the clash though it officially admitted to have suffered casualties. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35. Post 120 lies along the Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO) road. The names of all the 20 Indian Army personnel were inscribed at the unit-level memorial. Colonel B Santosh Babu, the commanding officer of the 16 Bihar regiment, was among the Indian Army personnel killed in the clash that had significantly escalated the border tension between the two countries with India calling it "a premeditated and planned action by China". The Chinese soldiers used stones, nail-studded sticks, iron rods and clubs in carrying out brutal attacks on Indian soldiers after they protested the erection of a surveillance post by China around patrolling point 14 in Galwan Valley. Giving a brief account of Operation "Snow Leopard", the Army mentioned in a plaque at the memorial that Colonel Babu led the 'Quick Reaction Force' of 16 Bihar Regiment and attached troops tasked to evict a group of Chinese troops from the general area in 'Y nala' (a junction) and stop them from moving further to Patrolling Point 14. "The column successfully evicted the PLA OP from Y Nala and reached PP14 where a fierce skirmish broke out between the IA (Indian Army) and PLA troops. Col B Santosh Babu led from the front and his troops fought gallantly in hand-to-hand combat, causing heavy casualties to the PLA. In the ensuing fight twenty 'Gallants of Galwan' achieved martyrdom," the Army wrote. The list of 20 personnel in the memorial included three naib subedars, three havildars and 12 sepoys. The defence ministry has also started the process to inscribe the names of Colonel Babu and other soldiers at the National War Memorial in Delhi. During a visit to Lukung forward post in eastern Ladakh on July 17, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh personally conveyed his appreciation and compliments to the troops from the Bihar regiment for displaying exemplary grit and courage in fighting the Chinese troops. In his address to the soldiers, the defence minister said the Indian soldiers killed in the Galwan Valley clash not only showed exemplary courage in safeguarding the border but also protected the pride of 130 crore Indians. Army Chief Gen M M Naravane has already awarded 'Commendation Cards' to five soldiers of the unit for their bravery in dealing with Chinese troops during the Galwan Valley clashes as well as confronting them in Pangong Tso in May. India and China are locked in a five-month-long bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh that has significantly strained bilateral ties. Both sides held a series of diplomatic and military talks to resolve the row. However, no breakthrough has been achieved to end the standoff. Inspired by both the dedication of refugee students and a belief in the power of education, approximately a dozen people raised more than $1,300 on Saturday. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us Inspired by both the dedication of refugee students and a belief in the power of education, approximately a dozen people raised more than $1,300 on Saturday. "Its just incredible what everyone has been able to do," said Alyssa Newton, a key organizer behind the days five-kilometre Ride for Refuge event at Brandon University, which supported World University Service of Canada (WUSC). Despite "ride" appearing in the events name, local participants opted for a five-kilometre walk. WUSC sponsors refugee students from abroad to study in Canada through its Student Refugee Program, approximately two to three of whom wind up at Brandon University each year. The organization also provides various items like books and reading lights for refugees overseas. Newton has been involved in the universitys WUSC chapter for a few years, and said the refugee students they bring in have been a consistently "incredible" inspiration who have changed her life. Its an approximately two-year journey for them just to get to Brandon, by which time she said their work ethic has already been cemented. "Any students we have are very driven, academically driven to support themselves and their family," she said. "Theyre just incredible people." One such refugee student, Hafso Ahmed, participated in Saturdays event. She arrived in Canada last year to study nursing at Brandon University. Prior to that, she was at the Kakuma Refugee camp in Kenya, one of the worlds largest refugee camps, where she said life was hard. Nursing, she said, offers a means to give back to her community. "It was my dream since I was a child to help and care and give back to my community," Ahmed said, adding that where she comes from there are few medical professionals. "Its a place where this profession is needed most." If not for WUSC, she said its unlikely she would have ever attended a post-secondary institution. "This was a big chance for refugees to come to Canada to pursue their dreams," she said, adding the WUSC opportunity was crucial not only because it allowed her to afford school, but also let her leave a refugee camp where movement is restricted. "Not only girls, but students going out of the country is very hard, so this program is a ticket out of the country." Even before applying for a WUSC position in Canada, she benefitted from the program through their donation of books and reading lights to her refugee camp. Of the dozen people to participate in Saturdays fundraiser walk, two of its superstars were Sachi Villanueva and Harald Grove. The duo not only walked the five kilometres, but kayaked 15 kilometres, biked 10 kilometres and hiked an additional 45.5 kilometres for the cause. Villanueva has been involved in WUSC since 2016, and in turn inspired Grove to help out. Villanueva emigrated with her family from the Philippines at the age of 13 in 2010, which she said gives her a special connection to the WUSC student experience, albeit not as a refugee. "As an immigrant myself, I found that it would have been nice if there were someone to show me around town or just show me the culture, so I kind of had that sense of connection," she said, adding that she has been able to do just that for other people through WUSC. Newton said that this years fundraising goal was only $500, with organizers lowering the bar due to the COVID-19 pandemic throwing just about everything out of whack. As of Sunday afternoon, theyd raised more than $1,300, according to their online fundraiser tracker online at wusc.ca, where additional donations can still be made. The local organization hopes to bring two refugee students to Brandon University in January, but Newton said "everythings up in the air." tclarke@brandonsun.com Twitter: @TylerClarkeMB Regal cinemas in Alabama will close on Thursday, joining theaters across the country that will be shuttered by parent company Cineworld Group. The movie chain, which has locations in Trussville and Mobile, today announced it will temporarily suspend operations at 536 theaters in the United States on Thursday, two months after reopening them during the coronavirus pandemic. Another 127 theaters in the United Kingdom will close their doors, as well. Cinemas have been struggling financially during the pandemic, as audiences remain reluctant to return to indoor theaters and studios push back the release dates of major films. On Friday, MGM and Universal said the release of the new James Bond film, No Time to Die, would be delayed from November to April 2021. The movie originally was set to hit theaters in April 2020. Without these new releases, Cineworld cannot provide customers in both the U.S. and U.K. the companys primary markets with the breadth of strong commercial films necessary fo them to consider coming back to theaters against the backdrop of COVID-19, Cineworld said in a press release. Regal cinemas in Trussville (5895 Trussville Crossings Parkway) and Mobile (1250 Satchell Paige Drive) are impacted by the decision. The Regal Trussville is open today, screening films such as Tenet, The New Mutants, Unhinged, and Words on Bathroom Walls. Older movies -- such as Magic Mike, Bridesmaids, Despicable Me and Crazy Rich Asians -- are on the agenda, as well. The Regal website says its theater in Mobile is open, but screenings arent listed online. Cineworld will continue to monitor the situation closely and will communicate any future plans to resume operations in these markets at the appropriate time, when key markets have more concrete guidance on their reopening status and, in turn, studios are able to bring their pipeline of major releases back to the big screen., said Cineworld CEO Mooky Greidinger, according a report in Variety. About 45,000 jobs are at stake, the report said. Labour leader Ed Miliband speaks during a rally at the Addison Centre in Kempston this week in Bedford, England. (Dan Kitwood/Getty Images) Kate Cohen is a writer who lives in Albany, N.Y. My daughter announced from the backseat that she hoped Hillary Clinton wouldnt win. Why? Because I want to be the first woman president. So youd make us all wait 30 more years? Sure. Youve waited this long. She is 9, and composed of equal parts tween fashion and comic timing. How bout you be the first atheist president. She replied, Whats an atheist? This surprised me, and pleased me, too. Not believing in God is such a given in our house she doesnt know it has a name. She might have said, Whats an omnivore? for the same reason. An atheist is someone who doesnt believe in God. There hasnt been a president like that? Nope, I said. Or at least none who has admitted it. You cant say youre an atheist and get elected. Why not? I explained to her that Americans dont like atheists, but I didnt tell her how much. Surveys rank atheism as the trait most likely to turn off potential voters, and atheists are the least trusted group in the United States, less than, say, gay Muslims who never call their mothers. Elsewhere, Greece has just elected an atheist prime minister (Alexis Tsipras) and the three British party leaders who stand to be elected prime minister Thursday include an atheist (Ed Miliband) and an agnostic (Nick Clegg). The one believer (David Cameron) has declared Britain a Christian country, but that didnt go over as well as you might think. Britain takes its religious neutrality seriously. We dont do God, Alastair Campbell, Tony Blairs media chief, famously told a reporter a decade ago. Blairs advisers practically duct-taped his mouth shut after he suggested ending a speech with God bless you. Here you are free to choose: Either end your speech with God bless America or end your political career. In fact, religious rhetoric is so compulsory in the United States that its anyones guess what candidates actually believe. Which gives atheists a puppyish kind of hope: We sniff around any candidate we suspect might be a closet nonbeliever. Surely Sen. Bernie Sanders, the non-practicing Jew from Vermont, surely he must be an atheist! Throw us a bone, Bernie! All due respect to fellow atheists, but Sanders may be the one politician who would be forthright about this. He calls himself a socialist, after all. How much worse is atheist? Dont answer that. As long as our politicians have to do God, their true metaphysical beliefs remain a mystery. Better to vote based on their policies, anyway; to the extent that metaphysical beliefs affect policy (think reproductive rights), well, we can still vote on policy. Same with gender: Id vote for a man who shares my values over a woman who doesnt. All things being equal, though, I want a woman. I want my daughter to live in a country that would elect a woman. And while were at it, I want her to live in a country capable of considering electing an atheist. And I dont mean England. New Delhi: Narendra Modi government has set up an election cell to elect next President of India, the reports said. President Pranab Mukherjee is set to complete his term on July 25, 2017 and it seems he will not get a second term in the highest office of the land. If media reports are to believed, PM Modi has already started the process to elect the 14th President of India. According to a report in Financial Express, two rooms in Parliament complex were allotted to President Election 2017 Cell on January 30. Room Number 79 on second floor and Room number 108-A on the third floor have been allotted for the purpose, the report said. Since outgoing President Pranab Mukherjee assumed office on July 25 in 2012, the new President has to be sworn in on July 25 this year. Activities of the President Election Cell are likely to increase after the budget session as it will require to involve state assemblies, which are part of the Electoral College for the Presidents election. Earlier, Presidents Secretariat also requested the Urban Development Ministry to look for a suitable accommodation for Mukherjee to stay after retirement from office. The officials of the Presidents Secretariat were shown the bungalow on APJ Abdul Kalam Road and they have agreeable to it becoming Mukherjees new home after he demits office, the source said. Mukherjee had defeated Sangma, who passed away in March this year aged 68, to become the 13th President of India. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. (TNS) - One week after the Glass Fire began its violent path through northern Napa Valley, one thing is certain. This is the most destructive fire Americas most famous wine region has ever faced.The Glass Fire has damaged or destroyed structures on at least 17 Napa wine estates, a significantly higher figure than in 2017, when the Wine Country Fires affected six of the countys wineries. By the weekend, with the fires still burning on both the eastern and western sides of the valley and the winds expected to rise, the danger was hardly over. Many vintners continued to fight the fire at their own properties, sometimes without firefighting aid. In some cases, they extinguished the flames, only to find the fire roaring back the next day.More than 215 Napa County wineries remained under mandatory evacuation or evacuation warnings, exposing some of Californias most celebrated, highest-end Cabernet Sauvignon producers to potential catastrophe. The Glass Fires long-term consequences for the valley especially the potential blow to tourism, crucial to the local economy remain to be seen. But already it was clear that the fire had seriously jeopardized the quality, and in some cases even the existence, of many Napa wineries 2020 vintage, which the August lightning storms and lingering wildfire smoke had already imperiled.The toughest thing is that there just doesnt seem to be an end to this, said Justin Hunnicutt Stephens, whose Hunnicutt Wine Co. was one of the Glass Fires early victims.On Sunday night, Chateau Boswell was the first winery to be seen engulfed in flames, along the blazes initial path on Napas eastern side. By the next day, Hunnicutt was gone, along with other properties in the vicinity like Hourglass, Dutch Henry and Fairwinds. (Many wineries in that area, however, emerged unscathed, such as Failla and Rombauer.) Higher on Howell Mountain, the primary winery at Burgess Cellars, which had only recently been acquired in a high-profile deal by the owner of Heitz Cellar, burned.Soon, the fire had jumped across the valley, where it tore through the farmhouse at Castello di Amorosa and climbed into the western hillsides. Spring Mountain, home to dozens of boutique, family-owned estates, was hit particularly hard: Behrens, Newton, Cain, Flying Lady and Sherwin wineries had all been leveled by Friday, with significant damage registered at School House, Fantesca and Spring Mountain Vineyard.We thought we had massive defensible space, said Flying Lady owner David Nassar, whose winery is named for the Flying Lady emblem that appears on Rolls-Royce cars. Going into this fire season, hed been optimistic: Hed built the winery to be fire-proof, using stone and metal rather than wood, and had vigilantly cleared brush around the buildings before fire season. But all that preparation didnt save his winery.Meanwhile, new fires erupted back on Howell Mountain. The head of the fire has passed through, but were doing constant patrols for spot fires and reignitions, said Steve Burgess, the former owner of Burgess Cellars and a volunteer firefighter, on Thursday. Wood fences, landscaping with wood chips, debris piled up around homes all those mundane fixtures were now becoming fuel, he said. These little fires can skunk around for days and then reappear.Many wineries, however, were putting up an effective fight and had so far avoided disaster. Vintner Ric Forman stayed behind to defend his Forman Vineyard in St. Helena and for two days, he said, he expected to lose everything. Only by a miracle did the winery survive, Forman said.Flames arrived at Howell Mountains OShaughnessy Winery on two different days, said commercial director Luke Russ, but the vineyard manager and winemaker stood outside the winery spraying it with water hoses.The battle at Schramsberg Vineyards in Calistoga, one of Napas most popular sparkling wine producers, seemed to have reached a denouement by Thursday. Owner Hugh Davies said that their prepping efforts had proven effective. This year we went a little crazy with the brush clearing, he said, and sure enough, as the flames approached the central infrastructure, they slowed way down.But for many wineries in the western hillsides, the real struggle was just beginning.On Thursday, the fire came around to us very unexpectedly from the southeast, said Pam Bergman, owner of Spring Mountains Bergman Family Vineyards, which is set to release its first vintage next year. Personnel from Cal Fire came to inspect the property, and a captain told Bergman to clear as much space as she could and have her crew ready with hoses. Youve got eight hours, he told her. Sure enough, she said, by Friday morning there were flames 3 feet high. She was feeling hopeful that the propertys structures, including two cottages, would survive, but the situation remained active.Were ready to be fighting this thing for at least another week, said Stu Smith, co-owner of Smith-Madrone Vineyards on Spring Mountain, a producer of old-school, affordable-for-Napa wines including Riesling and Cabernet. The Glass Fire arrived at his property on Monday. He and family members spent the rest of the week fighting back the flames themselves so far victoriously.Grapevines, which are known to act as firebreaks sometimes, were kryptonite for this fire, Smith said. Everything around us, 360 degrees, has either been burned or is vineyard. Throughout the hillsides, oak, fir and even redwood trees fell. At night, Smith said, he heard loud explosions. Those are propane tanks going off, he said, these great big ka-boom sounds.A similar saga played out at the neighboring property, Stony Hill Vineyard, famous for its minerally Chardonnay. The fires came in four different waves, said executive vice president Chris Hall, who is also a volunteer firefighter. Basically anything that was flammable, like grass or brush under the trees, burned, he said. But the interesting part is that it was slow, creeping, not raging at you with wind.Now, as the fire moved south, Hall was worried about Long Meadow Ranch, his familys other winery, whose main estate is located on Whitehall Lane at the base of the Mayacamas mountains. We were very impacted there in the Nuns Fire in 2017, said Hall. Back then, to defend it and neighboring properties, Cal Fire bulldozed a 5-mile-long fire line that stretched from Inglenook winery to Sugarloaf State Park in Sonoma, according to Hall. This week, fire crews came in and renewed that fire line.On Friday morning, he believed that the fire was near Long Meadow Ranch. Its outcome, he said, will just be up to the wind.The immediate threat of fire was so urgent that many Napa vintners scarcely had time or mental bandwidth to consider what would normally be their top priority at this time of year: winemaking. Bergmans team had managed to pick their final 9 tons of grapes on Sunday, and had transported the bins grapes between a couple of different friends wineries before finally finding a moment to process them into wine on Wednesday.Other wineries, however, saw their entire 2020 vintage and, in some cases, past vintages go up in flames along with their buildings. And still others felt that the thick wildfire smoke lingering in the air represented too great a threat to the quality of any potential wines to justify a harvest.We called the vintage a while back, but its just really obvious now that its gone, said Russ of OShaughnessy. 2020 its like the vintage that never was.Smith, who co-founded his winery with his brother in 1971, said that although the extent of the destruction is shocking, his particular community of Spring Mountain may have been overdue for a fire.Based on the research that hes done into historical records, the last time fire consumed the land in Spring Mountain was in the 1870s. If thats true, that these western hills have not burned since then, he said, then this is something thats been in the works for 150 years.Esther Mobley is The San Francisco Chronicles wine critic. Email: emobley@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Esther_mobley2020 the San Francisco ChronicleVisit the San Francisco Chronicle at www.sfchronicle.comDistributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. The massive and fearsome megalodon shark may have been able to reach up to 50ft in length thanks to cannibalism in the womb, researchers claim. The extinct shark species lived more than 3.6 million years ago and was twice the length of a double-decker bus, according to a team from DePaul University. The maximum body size of the sharks - that lived worldwide - was found after a more accurate equation was performed based on the size sharks can grow to today. Researchers say megalodon reached a massive size thanks to adaptations including live births, early hatching and cannibalistic feeding on other eggs in the womb. When the first shark pup hatches inside the mother, it proceeds to eat the rest of the eggs - a behaviour called intrauterine cannibalism, the study authors explained. This combination of adaptations allowed the giant predator to grow to unparalleled sizes in comparison to other similar shark species from the same period. Researchers found that the Megalodon could grow to up to 50ft - making it one of the largest shark species ever to have lived - its fin would have been as large as an average human adult The massive and fearsome megalodon shark may have been able to reach up to 50ft in length thanks to cannibalism in the womb, researchers claim A megalodon could grow up to 50 feet (bottom) and have a dorsal fin almost as tall as the average human. The biggest living species of shark is the great white (top) which grows to 20ft Before this new study by DePaul University, Chicago, researchers thought the megalodon reached up to 33ft in length, based on fossilised remains - mainly teeth. The new study set to find out the 'maximum body size' for the shark species - rather than the size an individual may have been based on fossilised teeth. The team looked at a wider range of sources, including a comparison to maximum lengths of modern shark species - to put the megalodon maximum length at 50ft. It was previously thought that warm-bloodedness originally led to the gigantism in multiple shark species during the time of the megalodon. However, this new study suggests it had a 'unique cannibalistic egg-eating behaviour to nourish early-hatched embryos to large sizes inside their mother'. Sharks have a reproductive strategy known as ovoviviparity where embryos develop inside eggs that stay inside their mothers until they are ready to hatch. This 'turns extreme' among shark species similar to the megalodon in that the first shark pup to hatch eats the rest of the eggs before they get a chance to develop. This is a behaviour called intrauterine cannibalism and by the time the pup emerges from the mother it is already large and ready to defend against predators. Coming out larger gives them a greater chance of finding food after they are born and couples with favourable water temperatures may have allowed them to hit the gigantic lengths the team claim they could reach. Otodus megalodon is commonly portrayed as a super-sized, monstrous shark, in novels and films such as the 2018 sci-fi thriller 'The Meg'. This new study illuminates exactly how uniquely gigantic the shark was, according to lead author Kenshu Shimada, a paleobiologist at DePaul University. While there are a lot of fossils of the megalodon, the biology of extinct species is poorly understood because they are only known through their teeth. The shark was a 'true outlier' in terms of its size as practically all other sharks that don't feed on plankton have a general size limit of 23 feet, explained Shimada. The US researchers say megalodon reached their massive size thanks to live births, early hatching embryos and cannibalistic feeding on other eggs while in the womb An average sized adult human could stand on the back of the shark and just manage to peer over the top of the dorsal fin. The shark was a 'true outlier' in terms of its size as practically all other sharks that don't feed on plankton have a general size limit of 23 feet, explained Shimado Even those sharks that do feast on plankton - such as the whale shark and basking shark - were equivalent or came close to the size of the Megalodon. Sharks like the Megalodon have represented major carnivores in oceans since the age of dinosaurs, so it is reasonable to assert that they must have played an important role in shaping the marine ecosystems we know today, Shimada said. The study also found after the age of dinosaurs, sharks grew larger than they were before dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Michael Griffiths, professor of environmental science at William Paterson University, said: "This is compelling evidence for the truly exceptional size of megalodon.' 'This work represents a critical advancement in our understanding of the evolution of this ocean giant,' Griffiths added. The findings have been published in the journal Historical Biology. BERN, Switzerland, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Immunophotonics, Inc., a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of proprietary immune-activating carbohydrate polymers for the treatment of solid and metastatic cancers, has bolstered its expertise through the appointment of Jonathan Knowles, Ph.D. to its Board of Directors. "Dr. Knowles has made instrumental contributions in developing and commercializing multiple drugs in several therapeutic areas. His insights will be invaluable in advancing IP-001 through clinical development and commercialization," stated Dr. Bobby W. Sandage, Jr., Immunophotonics' Chairman of the Board. IP-001 is the company's lead asset in clinical development. Lu Alleruzzo, CEO of Immunophotonics, is honored to welcome the new Board member and commented "I truly look forward to working closely with Dr. Knowles to advance our programs, leveraging his strategic, operational and scientific know-how as we continue to validate the science behind IP-001's immune-modulating properties." Dr. Knowles has reached the pinnacle of achievement academically and implemented his learnings in the pharmaceutical industry with a proven track record of advancing scientific innovation through clinical development and global adoption. In his opinion, "Immunophotonics has a unique and innovative approach to treating serious cancers through immune stimulation. The early data look very interesting and the drug has the potential to help many patients with metastatic cancer who are eligible for ablation or radiation therapy. I look forward to interacting more closely with the excellent scientists in the company going forward." About Prof. Dr. Jonathan Knowles, Ph.D. Dr. Jonathan Knowles has held faculty positions at numerous first-class institutions, including the University of Oxford, the Swiss EPFL, the University of Basel, and the University of Helsinki. His innate curiosity and determination to apply cutting-edge science to develop effective medicines propelled him into leading positions in the pharmaceutical industry, including President of Group Research and Member of the Executive Committee of the Roche Group, Member of the Board of Directors of Genentech and Chugai Pharmaceuticals, and Chairman of the Research Directors' Group of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industry Associations (EFPIA). Most recently, he has served as Chairman of the Board for Immunocore Ltd. and Adaptimmune Ltd., two major UK biotech companies. Dr. Knowles is a visionary who dares to address the limitations of existing therapeutics and dedicates his talents to develop innovative diagnostics and medicines with curative potential. About Immunophotonics Immunophotonics is a privately owned clinical-stage biotech pioneering the field of Interventional Immuno-OncologyTM. IP-001, the first asset from the company's intellectual property platform, has the potential to transform a routine tumor ablation into a systemically active cancer immunotherapy in multiple solid tumor indications. The company is based in St. Louis, Missouri, USA with subsidiaries in Bern, Switzerland and Tianjin, China. Contact: Dr. Theresa Visarius Vice President Business Development, Immunophotonics, Inc. Managing Director, IPS Biopharma AG IR@immunophotonics.com www.immunophotonics.com This press release contains forward-looking statements that may involve inherent uncertainties and actual results may differ materially. Immunophotonics, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law. Superintendent Michael Slack with the York Regional Police holds a press conference in front of a mansion allegedly used to run an illegal gambling operation in Markham, Ont., on Sept. 30, 2020. (Becky Zhou/The Epoch Times) Alleged Owner of Illegal Casino Operation a Guest at Controversial Cash-for-Access Fundraiser With Trudeau The owner of a multimillion-dollar mansion seized by police this summer for running an illegal gambling operation and for illegal possession of weapons was a guest at one of the cash-for-access fundraisers attended by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2016. Police have charged Wei Wei, 52, with a number of crimes, including operation of an illegal casino at his property in Markham, north of Toronto; illegal possession of weapons, and possession of proceeds of crime. York Regional Police made the details of the arrest public last week. The raid on the alleged operation in July was part of a larger crackdown on illegal gaming operations in the Greater Toronto Area, dubbed Project Endgame. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in a file photo. (The Canadian Press/Paul Chiasson) Multiple sources have confirmed to The Epoch Times that Wei Wei was one of the guests at a fundraising event the prime minister attended with wealthy members of the Chinese community in Toronto on May 19, 2016. Wei Wei is seen in a group photo with Trudeau at the event, as part of a series of photos of the fundraiser published by Chinese-language media in 2016. The fundraiser drew strong criticism from the opposition due to the background of some of the guests in attendance. Then-interim Conservative Party leader Rona Ambrose said Trudeaus attendance at the event where Chinese billionaires paid for access to the prime minister does not pass the smell test. One of the guests, Zhang Bin, is a billionaire who acts as an adviser to the Beijing regime. Zhang, a member of Chinas 12th National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference, along with a partner, donated $1 million to the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation and the University of Montreal Faculty of Law, which Pierre Trudeau graduated from, following the event, according to The Globe and Mail. The 20,000-square-foot property owned by Wei Wei allegedly used for running an illegal gambling operation, in Markham, Ont., on Sept. 30, 2020. (Becky Zhou/The Epoch Times) Another guest whose presence proved controversial for the Liberals was Shenglin Xian. At the time, Xian was awaiting final approval from federal bank regulators to open a bank in Canada. The Liberals have said his application wasnt discussed at the event. Elections Canada records show that an individual named Wei Wei, a resident of Markham, donated $551 to a regional Liberal Party association on May 16, 2016. Records also show that a Markham resident named Wei Wei donated $1,200 to a Liberal candidate in November 2014, and $205.68 to a regional Liberal Party association in December 2015. The Liberal government introduced legislation to end cash-for-access fundraising in 2017 following the controversy. Police seize gambling equipment from a property owned by Wei Wei allegedly used as an illegal casino in Markham, Ont., on July 23, 2020. (York Regional Police) The Prime Ministers Office referred a request for comment to the Liberal Party. A spokesperson for the Liberal Party didnt answer questions as to whether there were any interactions between Wei Wei and Trudeau at the event, but instead said the party is in compliance with all regulations for fundraising. No donations can be accepted from corporations, trade unions, or associations; individual contributions are strictly limited; and all contributions over $200 are publicly and proactively disclosed on the Elections Canada website both quarterly and annually, Braeden Caley said in an email. According to police, Wei Weis $9 million mansion in Markham was operated as a high-end illegal casino. In the July raid, police arrested 32 people and seized 11 firearmsincluding an AR-15 rifleand ammunition, more than $1 million in cash, gaming machines and tables, and more than $1.5 million in alcohol. The illegal operations included slot machines and a baccarat table with the maximum bet set at $20,000. The menu included an extensive choice of liquor as well as illegal shark fin. Police raided two other properties in the greater Toronto area in July as part of investigations into illegal gambling operations. In total, around 30 people have been charged with more than 70 criminal offences as a result of the police operation. Police with a suspect during a raid on a property owned by Wei Wei allegedly used for an illegal gambling operation in Markham, Ont., on July 23, 2020. (York Regional Police) The money moving through these underground casinos leads to huge profits for criminals that fund other ventures such as prostitution and drug trafficking, York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween said in a statement. This illegal high-stakes gambling also leads to gun violence, armed robberies, kidnappings, extortion, and other serious violent offences within our community. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Riska Rahman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 6 2020 The government and the House of Representatives have agreed to a Rp 22 trillion (US$1.49 billion) state capital injection to rescue ailing state-owned insurance company PT Asuransi Jiwasraya. State-owned insurance holding company PT Bahana Pembangunan Usaha Indonesia (BPUI) president director Robertus Biliteus said on Sunday the funds would be injected into BPUI in two tranches. The government will inject Rp 12 trillion in 2021 and the remaining Rp 10 trillion in 2022, with the funds to be used to form a new state-owned life insurer, namely IFG Life, he said during a virtual press briefing. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Its a new normal for Esterhazy High School this fall due to Covid-19 Esterhazy High School has started the first week back in September by having a quarter of the students in each day of the week to help them transition back while also allowing for time to focus on the new Covid-19 health and safety protocol. All three schools in the areaus, PJ Gillen, and Stockholmbroke our schools into four groups, said Esterhazy High School Principal Gord Erhardt. We have them in quarters and theyre coming in one day each this week just to help ease everything in. Some kids are a little nervous about returning to school with Covid-19 and were kind of focussing on connecting with the kids right now because we havent seen them in six months. Were doing a check-in just to see how these kids are doing and were training them on Covid-19 and the safe use of PPE and all the rules that go on for it. In the afternoon, were easing them into it with some classes for the kids. Its not the hectic gong show it usually is when everyone comes in at once and thats been nice. Its a little more personal for the kids, any given room might only have five to 10 kids or less. Thats nice to be with a small group of kids for the teachers. With less kids in the first week at Esterhazy High School, Vice-Principal Tracy Huckell has found that not only has it helped for implementing the new guidelines, but it has allowed students and staff to focus on some of the mental health challenges Covid-19 has caused. I think that the staggered starts have helped this week with timetable changes and learning new procedures, said Huckell. Its been really helpful to have some time to connect with the kids after six months. Its been absolutely awesome having the kids back. Connecting with others and smiling and laughing has been great. Some of the things weve been chatting to them about is whats gone well for them over the last six months and what are some of the challenges theyve had to deal with and how are they feeling about coming back to school and how can we help them feel better about it because there is some anxiety. Everybodys situation is a little different. Weve explained to the kids that following all the procedures and these new rules just shows care and respect for others. Erhardt says for the most part the students understand how crucial it is to follow the new rules to protect each other and the community. Were grade six to 12 and were explaining to them that we have very few barriers in a school setting and its hard to safely social distance in a school setting so weve got to use masks and hand sanitizer, said Erhardt. They understand that weve got to do all these things to protect the more vulnerable people in our school. We do have kids that are immunocompromised and also people in the community. The kids understand the importance of the cohorts. If we cant keep physical distance within the school then we can at least keep the groupings of the cohorts together. Its hard for some of the kids who have friends in a grade above or below. With students in cohorts this year, Huckell thinks thats one of the biggest challenges for them with understanding that they need to be cautious of who theyre around and cant interact in school with everybody they normally would. The cohorts are probably the biggest change for the kids, beyond wearing the masks, said Huckell. Intermingling across grades with group activities we just arent able to do and they dont have lockers because they must remain in their cohort areas so they cant mingle in the hall like theyre used to. Thats a big change, high school kids like to hang and they cant hang like that anymore. With remote learning an option to all students this year, Erhardt was surprised to see how little of an impact it had on Esterhazy High School. Weve lost maybe 15 students to remote learning, said Erhardt. Which isnt bad, Ive heard its been a lot worse in other schools. Some of those kids have health issues or are kids in a family that has someone with health issues. Naturally in those situations parents are opting to keep their kids at home to see which way this pandemic goes here. Its not too bad losing 15 kids across seven grades, numbers are more or less the same. The Covid-19 pandemic posed a total unknown for schools as they return, and Erhardt says with how fluid the situation is, at times it has felt like the adjustments are constant. I think that things werent exactly firmed up from the ministry on down so there was kind of a scramble at the end, said Erhardt. Sometimes it feels like weve been building the plane here while its still flying. Sometimes the directions change once or twice and youve kind of just got to roll with the punches, but I think weve got it figured out now and were going in the right direction. Having only a fraction of the students in each day has allowed for easier problem solving in the moment when new situations arise, says Huckell. We had all these procedures laid out, but now we get to actually follow them with the kids and we can problem solve as things come up, said Huckell. When something does come up we can look at it and say, what would be the procedure for this type of situation? Because you cant think of everything ahead of time so these small groups have helped us kind of think of the things that would have come up when we have everybody back. The real test is when all the students return to the school together says Erhardt, but the first week has been good for preparation and gone as well as could have been expected. I think its gone smoothly, said Erhardt. I guess the real test is when everybody shows up at once. Were just going to have to make sure everyone understands the situation. We have a bunch of rules in place, the kids are in cohorts, weve got staggered exits and transitions, and well see how that all goes when everybody is here. Weve done a couple trial runs this week and it seems quite smooth, but thats only with 25 per cent in the building. BETHESDA, Md. They came from all over the country, determined to help their stricken president recover. Some had homemade signs, others held GET WELL balloons and dozens brought bouquets to lay in front of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where President Donald Trump has been combating his own coronavirus infection since Friday. By Sunday afternoon, hundreds of people had congregated outside the hospital. They handed out water and candy and stacks of pizza the Trump campaign sent over. They flew every brand of MAGA flag in the sky the most devoted carried 20-foot pipes with four flags apiece mounted on them marching them up and down the sidewalks. YMCA and Proud to Be an American, both Trump rally staples, blared on repeat on boomboxes and generator-powered amps. MAGA Country had gathered to celebrate and pray for its leader an impromptu festival-meets-vigil for its venerated, living saint. And then suddenly, there he was. After hours of listening to their cheers and acknowledging them via tweet, Trump emerged from his isolation chamber to greet the crowd, creating his own impromptu spectacle. In a brief appearance, Trump rolled past in his motorcade, waving from the window of his massive armored SUV, offering blessings from a hermetically sealed popemobile. The gathering was, in a way, the spiritual center of Trumps rattled base. Across the country, religious leaders had called on the country to pray for the president and Trump surrogates organized a candlelight vigil on Saturday night. On Fox News, Trumps favorite hosts were vowing to fight for Trump, because you fought for us, as Laura Ingraham put it. Those strains were all present outside Walter Reed on Sunday, where a community that had regularly downplayed the pandemics severity, and shrugged off social distancing and mask wearing were now grappling with the reality that the 74-year-old president was now seriously ill, caught by that same pandemic. Story continues As the crowd grew larger and louder on Sunday, police put up barricades trying to contain the crowds from spilling into the streets. Ad hoc caravans drove up and down, honking their horns in jubilant support. Social distancing seemed a distant concern, secondary only to the camaraderie and joy of supporting their convalescent leader often maskless, often yelling over the din of cars into the ears of their newfound friends. Tamara, a nurse from North Carolina in a star-spangled MAGA hat who declined to give her last name, had driven five hours that morning to keep vigil for a short while with her teenage daughter and small dog. She had to drive the five hours back home that night so she could make her shift the next morning. I feel that theres more power in prayer, to be honest, she said, trying to keep a giant homemade WE HEART TRUMP sign from flying off a barricade. So I wanted to come here and be with people and actually be near him as much as possible to pray for him. In the days since Trumps diagnosis was announced and in the endless hours that he was silent online Trumps followers and allies, both online and in the media, have pinned their hopes on his well-cultivated image of robust health and spiritual fortitude. A full recovery from the coronavirus which has killed over 200,000 Americans would only bolster that image and, his supporters hope, help him win the election. But for a certain brand of Trump fan, a little display of devotion didnt seem to hurt. Across the country, Trump supporters organized candlelit vigils in front of Trump properties and hosted prayer events. Thousands and thousands of supporters posted their prayers online, and on Fox News, pundits praised his bravery. Banners and flags were much on display outside Walter Reed on Oct. 4, 2020. Im here to pray for Trump, said an elderly Vietnamese woman who declined to give her name. She was holding a massive shofar a rams horn used in Jewish religious ceremonies that she blew repeatedly, calling others to prayer. Across the multicultural crowd Somalians, Chinese, Latinos all held signs proudly proclaiming their heritage vendors hawked their wares. John, a vendor selling MAGA merchandise out of a shopping cart flags, hats, masks said he had driven down from Connecticut that morning. John, who declined to give his last name, said his company often set up shop at Trump rallies and voter events. The atmosphere on Sunday, he said, was no different. These people are just as enthused as they are at regular Trump rallies, he said, as a Trumpified cover of YMCA blasted nearby: M! A! G-A! Here and there, a strain of religious fervor shot through the crowd. Trump was sent from God! declared one handwritten poster, mounted on the fence outside the Naval Center on the Walter Reed complex. QAnon adherents the mushrooming conspiracy that Trump is on the verge of purging Satan-worshiping pedophiles from the government made their presence known, holding signs with giant Qs. On their windshields, some had the secret hashtag, #WWG1WGA, which stands for the phrase: "Where we go one, we go all" something of a QAnon motto and pledge. Matthew Curtis, an ex-Californian who expressed disgust at how liberals have governed his home state, had come up from Tennessee on Saturday for a rally for former Democrats who had left the party, dubbed the "Walk Away" rally. Since I'm here, you know, I felt compelled to come and show my support for President Trump and pray over him and wish him a speedy recovery, he said. In quieter times, the boulevards surrounding Walter Reed normally choked with commuters working at the Naval base and the National Institutes of Health would be empty on a Sunday. But this day, the streets were flooded with pro-Trump cars, from regular vehicles that had plastered TRUMP-PENCE flags onto their windows, to the magnificent red TRUMP TRAIN truck that circled Walter Reed all day, to the flag-festooned firetruck with a chimney pumping clouds of bubbles into the air. Occasionally, an SUV would zoom by with a middle finger held aloft through the sunroof. But Hunt McMahon, a local who frequently attended grassroots Trump events, said it was exceedingly rare. It's easily 10 to 1 in favor of Trump-supporting drivers, he said, holding a megaphone in one hand and a 5-foot-wide TRUMP-PENCE flag in the other. People have their opinions and flip us off and make rude comments. But there's exponentially more people coming by and waving and honking and cheering and giving us a thumbs-up. McMahon hoped the crowds presence would inspire Trump supporters in the Democratic stronghold of Bethesda, Md., where the medical facility is based, to openly display their colors. Showing support for your president can get you vandalized, or your windows smashed on your cars, or worse, he said. And there's nothing right about that. So we're all out here to let people know, it's OK. We're supporting the president. Curtis had come by himself, and he knew nobody, but he didnt feel alone. It's really good to be in such a liberal Democratically controlled area, with a lot of like-minded individuals, he said. People are wanting to show their support in the midst of adversity. As the sun set and night descended and the president was safely ensconced back in Walter Reed, the crowd remained, arrayed stubbornly in front of the gates and under the eye of the local police. They hung on to the barriers, eating more campaign-gifted pizza, and watching flag-bearing trucks loop around and around the plaza. They waited for Trumps next move. CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP, Penn., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Westinghouse Electric Company has just signed a contract with Eletronuclear to conduct engineering analyses critical to the safety, reliability and long-term life of the Angra 1 nuclear power plant. This contract supports Eletronuclear's Long Term Operations (LTO) program designed to enable continued operations at Angra Unit 1 through the end of 2044. The current operating license is valid through December 2024. "This marks a very important first step for both Eletronuclear and Westinghouse in working together to allow for extended operation," said David Howell, Westinghouse president of Americas Operating Plant Services. "Westinghouse has been a close partner with Eletronuclear since the Angra 1 unit first went online in 1985. We are pleased to have been chosen to support the safety, reliability and long-term success of Angra 1." The LTO program at Angra 1 includes engineering assessments, system testing, and plant system upgrades, to be implemented in several stages by 2030. "We hope that this will be the first in a series of successful initiatives, continuing the longstanding relationship with Westinghouse," said Eletronuclear President Leonam dos Santos Guimaraes. The contract follows a letter of intent signed between Westinghouse and Eletronuclear on February 3, 2020 to help extend the life of the Angra 1 nuclear power plant. The signing was witnessed by Brazil's Minister of Mines and Energy Bento Albuquerque, U.S. Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette, and William Popp, the Charge d'Affaires of the U.S. Mission to Brazil. For additional information about Westinghouse's LTO solutions, visit https://www.westinghousenuclear.com/operating-plants/long-term-operations. Westinghouse Electric Company is the world's pioneering nuclear energy company and is a leading supplier of nuclear plant products and technologies to utilities throughout the world. Westinghouse supplied the world's first commercial pressurized water reactor in 1957 in Shippingport, Pa., U.S. Today, Westinghouse technology is the basis for approximately one-half of the world's operating nuclear plants. For more information, please visit www.westinghousenuclear.com. Contact: Sarah Cassella Director, External Communications Westinghouse Electric Company Telephone: +1 412-374-4744 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Westinghouse Electric Company Related Links http://www.westinghousenuclear.com Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai reunited Salman Khan Khan with his Bharat co-star Disha Patani. Salman Khan on Sunday announced he has resumed shooting for his action-drama Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai. The 54-year-old actor was shooting for the Prabhu Deva directorial before the lockdown was announced in March. Taking to Instagram, Khan shared a picture from the set, wearing a jacket, with his back facing the camera. Here is the post The film, which reunites Khan with his Bharat co-star Disha Patani, was earlier scheduled to hit the screens on 22 May. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, two songs and some patchwork of about five days of the movie was yet to be finished. Khan recently also started shooting for the 14th season of his reality show Bigg Boss. The Colors show, which the actor hosts, went on air Saturday night. (With inputs from Press Trust of India) Fonterra, a New Zealand dairy co-operative, plans to cut back production at its organic certified sites. (Martin Hunter/Getty Images) New Zealand Dairy Producer Fonterra Sells Off China Farms New Zealand dairy co-op Fonterra is selling its two farming hubs and a majority stake in another farm in China to local interests for NZ$555 million to pay down its debts. Fonterras two farming hubs in Yutian County, Hebei Province and Ying County, Shanxi Province will be purchased by Inner Mongolia Natural Dairy Co., a subsidiary of China Youran Dairy Group Limited. The sale is pending anti-trust and regulatory approvals in China and is due to be completed within this financial year. Beijing Sanyuan Venture Capital has separately agreed to buy Fonterras 85 percent stake in its Hangu farm for NZ$42 million. Miles Hurrel, Fonterras CEO, said the decision to sell is in line with its strategy to focus on Kiwi products. He also said Fonterra had demonstrated its commitment to the development of Chinas dairy industry when it built its farms there in 2012. Weve worked closely with local players, sharing our expertise in farming techniques and animal husbandry, and contributed to the growth of the industry. We dont shy away from the fact that establishing farms from scratch in China has been challenging, but our team has successfully developed productive model farms, supplying high-quality fresh milk to the local consumer market. Its now time to pass the baton to Youran and Sanyuan to continue the development of these farms, Hurrel said in a media release on Oct. 5. Hurrell indicated the sale should not be read as walking away from China. China remains one of Fonterras most important strategic markets, receiving around a quarter of our production, he said. Selling the farms will allow us to focus even more on strengthening our foodservice, consumer brands and ingredients businesses in China bringing the goodness of New Zealand milk to Chinese customers in innovative ways. Fonterra announced a back to basics strategy last year, reducing debt by more than NZ$1 billion last year, and paying a small dividend. It is New Zealands largest company and supplies more than a quarter of the worlds dairy exports. In August, Fonterra announced the appointment of Teh-han Chow as CEO of Greater China after he helmed the role in an acting capacity since December 2019. Fonterra confirmed to The Epoch Times that Chow will retain in the role. A previous version of this article misstated the figure of the Fonterra deal. The Epoch Times regrets the error. Changes by the federal government to jury selection brought in to diversify juries and help combat systemic racism in the courts will actually have the opposite effect, argue a number of associations representing racialized lawyers. The changes were introduced in the wake of the Gerald Stanley trial in Saskatchewan in 2018. Stanley, a white man, was acquitted by a jury of second-degree murder in the shooting death of 22-year-old Indigenous man Colten Boushie. Media reports at the time said that the defence was using what were known as peremptory challenges to dismiss any potential juror who appeared Indigenous. Peremptory challenges allowed both Crown and defence lawyers to dismiss a certain number of potential jurors during jury selection without having to give a reason. After the Stanley acquittal, the federal government moved to abolish the challenges. That change now forms part of an appeal being heard at the Supreme Court of Canada on Wednesday, brought by a Toronto-area man, Pardeep Singh Chouhan, who was convicted of murder and is arguing the removal of peremptory challenges was unconstitutional. A number of legal groups, including associations representing Black, Asian and Muslim lawyers, have intervened in the case, arguing that the removal of peremptory challenges does not in fact help tackle systemic racism in the courts, and harms a person of colours right to a fair trial by jury. They point out that people of colour accused of a crime often used the challenges to help ensure people with perceived biases didnt make it on to the jury that would ultimately decide their fate in a system where jury pools remain significantly white and Black, Indigenous and people of colour remain overrepresented as accused persons. Among the intervenors who argue in favour of the ban on the challenges are Toronto-based legal clinic Aboriginal Legal Services, and Debbie Baptiste, Colten Boushies mother. The South Asian Bar Association argues in its filing that peremptory challenges were a crucial tool for people of colour accused of a crime, allowing them to evaluate whether a potential juror would treat their case fairly. Parliament ostensibly eliminated peremptory challenges to increase jury diversity but the change is fundamentally misguided, the association wrote in its filing. At the end of the day, Parliament eliminated the peremptory challenge because a white person who already starts with every relative advantage in the criminal justice system abused the power in order to eliminate a minority group from his jury. In response to that abuse, Parliament stripped every accused person of colour of his or her peremptory challenges. The ban on peremptory challenges was introduced in spring 2018 as part of a massive piece of federal legislation known as Bill C-75, the Liberal governments attempt at revamping the justice system. Former justice minister Jody Wilson-Rayboud said at the time that the bill aims to bring about a wide-reaching cultural shift in the criminal justice system and how it is administered throughout the country. But critics have argued that the removal of peremptory challenges was short-sighted, and that regulating their use would have been far better than getting rid of them completely. Parliament failed to give proper consideration to the impact of the abolition of peremptory challenges on Black accused, the result of which is the exacerbation of the very issue that it claimed to fix: systemic racism, says the Canadian Association of Black Lawyers in its filing. Historically, the primary rationale underlying the use of peremptory challenges was that it allowed the accused person to participate in the selection of his or her trier of fact, thereby adding a sense of legitimacy to the jury. Debbie Baptiste, Colten Boushies mother, points out that Indigenous people were systematically excluded from juries for much of Canadas history, and that peremptory challenges are a form of race-based discrimination. Her filing states that five visibly Indigenous people were challenged by the defence during jury selection at the Stanley trial. From the perspective of Indigenous people who have been historically targeted and victimized, the existence of peremptory challenges as mechanisms for discrimination does not support the perception of a fair trial or an impartial jury, says the filing. Aboriginal Legal Services also echoed the argument in their filing that the challenges have unquestionably excluded Indigenous people from serving on juries. In 2020, it is impossible to see the retention of these challenges as anything other than antithetical to every notion of fairness, says their filing. Federal justice minister David Lamettis office said in a statement to the Star that his governments changes to jury selection addressed long-standing and well-documented concerns that racialized Canadians were being unfairly excluded by the previous process. Under the new rules, a party can still challenge a potential juror for bias, but its up to the trial judge to decide whether the person should be dismissed after hearing the potential jurors self-assessment as to whether they can judge the case fairly. Such challenges overlook how bias is difficult to detect by both outsiders (judges) and those who are biased (jurors), says the British Columbia Civil Liberties Association in its filing. Toronto lawyer Dirk Derstine, who is representing Chouhan in the appeal before the Supreme Court, said people who have been the subject of discrimination can often tell pretty quickly if someone is biased against them but it can be difficult to persuade a judge, who is often white. We say (the challenge for cause procedure) is inadequate in order to ferret out those who would hold prejudicial views against people, Derstine told the Star. Jury selection at Chouhans Toronto murder trial was carried out under the new rules, without the use of peremptory challenges. The Ontario Court of Appeal upheld the ruling that banning the challenges was constitutional, a decision which will be before the Supreme Court next week. At the same time, the Court of Appeal ruled on when the changes to peremptory challenges should apply. The court found that the right to use peremptory challenges still applied to cases where the accused person had opted for a trial by jury before Sept. 19, 2019, the date the jury selection changes came into effect. That decision could lead to dozens of homicide and sexual assault cases in Ontario, including Chouhans, having to be retried because they used the new jury selection method. The Crown is asking the Supreme Court to overturn the Court of Appeals ruling on this issue. A coalition made up of the Canadian Muslim Lawyers Association and the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers proposes in its filing that the government could regulate the use of peremptory challenges, rather than scrap them entirely. The coalition suggests an approach where the Crown or defence could raise with the judge if they believe the other side is using their challenges for discriminatory reasons or that there has been a pattern of using the peremptory challenge to eliminate racialized jurors. And if after hearing from the other side the judge finds that the challenge to a juror was motivated by a discriminatory purpose, the juror should be seated, the coalition proposes. I think by eliminating peremptory challenges youre going to risk having all-white juries in trials involving Indigenous accused and racialized accused, and theres going to be nothing that defence counsel can do about it, one of the coalitions lawyers, Nader Hasan, told the Star. Haas is reluctant to comment amid rumours the F1 team could be sold. The small American outfit has already admitted that both of its current drivers could be replaced for 2021. Sergio Perez is one strong option, but rumoured in the past days is that also in the running is Nikita Mazepin, a Formula 2 driver. Mazepin's father is Russian billionaire Dmitry Mazepin, who in 2018 competed with Lawrence Stroll to buy the Force India team. "We are hearing from Italy that Mazepin wants to buy Haas," reported Auto Bild correspondent Ralf Bach. "According to our information, Sergio Perez heard about the team's negotiations with Mazepin and is no longer interested," he added. The Danish newspaper BT says the situation has also made current Haas driver Kevin Magnussen very nervous, as he begins to explore a 'plan B' for 2021. "No deadline has been set," a Haas spokesman said when asked about the team's driver decision. "When the team is ready to make a decision about the drivers, we will announce it publicly. There will be no comment on speculation of any kind." However, the spokesman did insist that Haas is "not for sale". (GMM) Photo: (Photo : Myhair14 on Pixabay) A mother and daughter from South Carolina died from COVID-19 just weeks apart and were buried on the same day; they were both teachers. Demetria Bannister, 28, died on September 7 after contracting the coronavirus. Demetria was a third-grade teacher while her mom, Shirley, was the nursing department chair. On the day that Demetria died, Shirley Bannister, 57, also tested positive for COVID-19. Several weeks later, she too succumbed to the disease and died September 27. Mom tested positive on the day daughter died of COVID-19 Demi was last inside the school building on August 28, and all cleaning protocols were followed at that time. She didn't show any symptoms as well. So they are still in the dark as to how she contracted the virus, especially that the school year started remotely. Demi tested positive on September 4 and was hospitalized. Three days later, she passed away. Meanwhile, Shirley had asthma and was also a diabetic before she showed signs of coronavirus infection. On the day her daughter died, she tested positive for COVID-19. Shirley's husband tested negative for the COVID-19. Mom and Daughter were inseparable Dennis Bell, Shirley's brother, described the pair as inseparable, The Mirror noted. He said that his sister is everybody's auntie and was a mother figure, even when she was still young. She is the kind of teacher who wanted to make sure that her students succeed and would always be involved with the community. "A confidant and a great listener," is what Dennis could say about Shirley as a person. At 19, she received her licensed practicing nurse degree from Midlands Technical College. She would then continue working as a nurse for the next 30 years in the gerontology department. She then became head of the nursing department at Midlands, a position she held for seven years. A former student of Mrs. Bannister attests to her generosity. On her social media, Kenyatta Hicks said that because her father was ill, she could not afford to buy all her books. Upon learning about her situation, Mrs. Bannister provided her all the nursing books she needed. She wrote, "She believed in me at the time when I didn't believe in myself." As for Demi, she is the spitting image of her mom. They are alike, both in mannerism and the way they carry themselves. More than that, Demi also took after Shirley when it comes to being generous and committed to helping other people, Dennis told NBC News. Like her mom, Demetria also pursued a career in teaching. Demi was never afraid to try new things, Dennis said. She is full of energy and passion, which becomes more evident whenever she mentors kids. As a third-grade teacher at Windsor Elementary School, she was known as "Windsor's Songbird," according to the school's principal, Denise Quickel. He said that Demetria loved her student. She would never miss an opportunity to advocate for students and public education. Lastly. Dennis said that the mom and daughter were committed to living life each day as if it were their last. Both mom and daughter were buried on Saturday, October 3, 2020. Read next: France's Oldest Doctor Refuses to Retire So He Could Still Help Patients Amid Pandemic Due to COVID-19 Fears: Husband Not Allowed to Be by His Wife's Bedside While She Undergoes a Medical Abortion Mom Struggles to Find SpaghettiOs for Her Child With Autism, Community Stepped in to Help DEAR ABBY: My husband, "Daryl," gets furious every time I talk to my ex, my two oldest kids' father. The only thing we discuss is my kids' issues, but Daryl loses it completely. He starts calling me names and says I don't respect him even though I do. I keep assuring him that there's nothing inappropriate being talked about (he is present during all the conversations since we talk over the phone and live in different states). I don't know what to do anymore. My kids are 14- and 13-year-old girls, who are going through all these crazy teenage issues, which obviously, as their parents, my ex and I have to sometimes talk about, and it's not even that many calls. I'm wondering if this is normal because I've only been in two relationships in my life. I'm 33, and I feel like a goofball for not knowing what to do. -- TOUGH SITUATION IN TEXAS DEAR TOUGH SITUATION: No, it is not normal. Your husband's jealousy and insecurity are over the top. You have a responsibility as the mother of two teenage daughters to see them through this time of great transition, and if you feel their father is in a better position to provide input than your husband, you have a right to seek it. It's time to talk about this with a licensed marriage and family therapist because Daryl's behavior is abusive. If it isn't stopped, it may escalate. Do it now because if the verbal abuse continues and your daughters witness it, they will grow up thinking it's normal behavior, and it will negatively affect their relationships with men later in life. DEAR ABBY: I have been diagnosed with PTSD by my doctor. I thought only people who have been in military combat would receive a PTSD diagnosis. I have had a lifetime of verbal abuse from my mother. Once she had broken my spirit with rants of "dummy," "stupid" and "I wish you had never been born," I was easy prey for my older brother. To get laughs, he never misses a chance to make fun of me in public. On second thought, I guess I HAVE been through combat. Abby, do you have any ideas how to make life somewhat bearable? -- CONSTANTLY HURTING DEAR CONSTANTLY: I sure do! Ask your doctor for a referral to a psychotherapist with expertise in family dysfunction and PTSD. Then make it a practice to AVOID abusive people who seek attention by ridiculing and belittling others. If you do, your life will improve immeasurably. Trust me on that. DEAR ABBY: What do you think about people having drive-by baby showers? I was recently invited to one, only to arrive and find the front yard filled with people, cake and balloons. But I had been instructed to just drop my gift and go on. I did expect a few people to be there with the expectant mom to greet me and receive the gift, but after traveling 25 miles only to find a full-blown party going on that I wasn't allowed to join seems very rude to me. I think if that was the plan, she should have just had a shower for these A-list guests and forgone the drive-by part. What are your thoughts on this? -- TURNED OFF IN TENNESSEE DEAR TURNED OFF: You may not have been singled out to be slighted. Those at the party may have "crashed" the lawn from their cars. What a foolish, risky thing to subject the expectant mother to. If the revelers weren't masked, the honoree and her baby were at risk of catching COVID! Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069. By Express News Service KOLKATA: The state government has decided not to send any representative to attend the meeting convened by the Centre to discuss the issues related to Gorkhaland on October 7 alleging the Modi governments decision was "arbitrary". The Centre convened the meeting asking the home secretary, the district magistrate of Darjeeling and Bimal Gurung faction of the Gorkha Janamukti Morcha (GJM), a BJP ally, to be present. This is the first time that the BJP-led Centre will convene an official meeting without ambiguity on Gorkhaland. "The Centre did not discuss the issue with us before convening the meeting. Besides, a state government bureaucrat cannot be asked to attend a Centres meeting without the consent of the state government concerned," said an official of the state government. Since 2009, when the BJP bagged victory in Darjeeling Lok Sabha seat, the party has been cautious with the Gorkhaland issue in its poll manifestos. In 2009 and 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP had said its manifesto that the party will sympathetically examine and appropriately consider the long pending demand of the Gorkhas. In last years general election, the saffron camp promised its poll manifesto that the party is committed to finding a permanent political solution to the issues of Darjeeling Hills. The letter dated on October 3, signed by Renu Sarin, director (Centre-State II), of the Union Home Ministry, has stated that the meeting convened on October 7 at Room No 119 of the North Block is to discuss the issues related to Gorkhaland. The letter was made public in social media by Roshan Giri, general secretary of GJM (Bimal faction). The GJM is divided between Binay Tamang and Bimal Gurung, who is at large since the murder of a police officer. PITTSBURGH, Oct. 5, 2020 - Severely injured trauma patients who received a blood-clotting drug before arriving at the hospital had a better chance of surviving than those who didn't, according to new research from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. The results will be reported at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress 2020 and published in JAMA Surgery. The multi-center trial, which took place over four years in Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah and Arizona, was designed to determine whether giving tranexamic acid, a blood-clotting agent, to trauma patients before they arrived at the hospital improved patients' chance of survival. Over the trial period, researchers found that while the drug is safe, it did not significantly reduce 30-day mortality in the majority of patients at risk of hemorrhage following their injuries. However, "in certain subgroups who got the drug very early--within the first hour--or who had severe shock with a blood pressure less than 70 when the paramedics arrived, there was an improvement in survival," said lead author, Francis X. Guyette, M.D., associate professor of emergency medicine at Pitt and UPMC emergency physician. The 903 participants in the study were enrolled from emergency calls where patients were at risk of bleeding from trauma. Half got the tranexamic acid treatment, and half got a placebo of saline. When paramedics arrive at a scene, it's hard to know the full extent of a patient's injuries, making it difficult to determine the level of trauma they've experienced, so the study used simple measurements to enroll patients in the trial. "The prehospital environment is very unknown," said senior author Jason Sperry, M.D., professor of surgery at Pitt and UPMC trauma surgeon. "All you have is some vital signs and you know they have been injured. Tranexamic acid was given to just about everybody if they had either a high heart rate or low blood pressure." Tranexamic acid is commonly used in cardiac surgery to help stop bleeding, but previous studies have suggested that the drug may pose risks--including blood clots and strokes--to patients suffering from severe injuries. However, among the severely injured patients in this study who received the drug, none had more risk of these side effects than those who didn't receive the drug. This result suggests tranexamic acid may be safer and more beneficial to trauma patients than originally thought. Since tranexamic acid is delivered through an IV, it's easy to stock in emergency vehicles. It's also affordable, so paramedics are less likely to ration it for the patients who they suspect have the worst injuries. "Given that tranexamic acid is safe and has benefit in these subgroups of patients, if we can give it early and give it to all patients with severe injury in the field, we should," said Guyette. "Even though it benefits a few percent of trauma patients, that works out to thousands of patients per year whose lives could be saved." Guyette and Sperry hope that their findings will be used to modify guidelines for paramedics. ### Additional authors on this research are Joshua B. Brown, M.D., M.Sc., Mazen S. Zenati, M.D., Ph.D., Barbara J. Early-Young, B.S.N., and Peter W. Adams, B.S., all of Pitt; Brian J. Eastridge, M.D., of the University of Texas Health San Antonio; Raminder Nirula, M.D., M.P.H., of the University of Utah; Gary A. Vercruysse, M.D., of the University of Michigan; Terence O'Keeffe, M.D., of the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University; and Bellal A. Joseph, M.D., of the University of Arizona. This research was funded by U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command grant W81XWH 13-2-0080. To read this release online or share it, visit https://www.upmc.com/media/news/100520-Tranexamic-Acid [when embargo lifts]. About the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine As one of the nation's leading academic centers for biomedical research, the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine integrates advanced technology with basic science across a broad range of disciplines in a continuous quest to harness the power of new knowledge and improve the human condition. Driven mainly by the School of Medicine and its affiliates, Pitt has ranked among the top 10 recipients of funding from the National Institutes of Health since 1998. In rankings recently released by the National Science Foundation, Pitt ranked fifth among all American universities in total federal science and engineering research and development support. Likewise, the School of Medicine is equally committed to advancing the quality and strength of its medical and graduate education programs, for which it is recognized as an innovative leader, and to training highly skilled, compassionate clinicians and creative scientists well-equipped to engage in world-class research. The School of Medicine is the academic partner of UPMC, which has collaborated with the University to raise the standard of medical excellence in Pittsburgh and to position health care as a driving force behind the region's economy. For more information about the School of Medicine, see http://www.medschool.pitt.edu. http://www.upmc.com/media Contact: Taylor Andres Mobile: 412-592-7406 E-mail: AndresTA@upmc.edu Contact: Sarah Katz Mobile: 412-312-1042 E-mail: KatzSB@upmc.edu A shop worker today praised the actions of a female police officer who was stabbed tackling two knife-wielding robbery suspects. The man, 35, said two teenagers stormed in Pimlico Grocery, in Westminster, at around 3.30pm yesterday waving blades at him and shouting give us the money! He locked them inside and dialled 999 but the pair smashed through a glass door to escape and were spotted by two passing police officers. When challenged, one knifed the policewoman in the stomach. Despite the injury, she continued to chase the suspects along Chapter Street to Vauxhall Bridge Road where they were detained. The shop worker told the Standard today: Two quite young boys came in and pulled out big knives shouting, Give us the money. My instinct kicked in and I refused. I locked them in. They were threatening me but I wasnt going to give in. Its not my shop but I was not just going to hand over the money. They then broke the glass of the door and got out. Some passing police officers, two men and a woman I think, chased them and one got stabbed. Thank you to the police for their actions. He said the second shop worker suffered minor injuries to his hand from glass. He added: I was not scared really. They were young. I was confident I could take them on. The police did a good job and it was lucky they were passing. The officer was taken to hospital for treatment, but was discharged and is recovering at home. Chief Inspector Simon Brooker said: This shows precisely the kind of danger officers face every single day as they work to keep the public safe. Two suspects were today being questioned by police. From the past couple of months, Bollywood has come under fire for various issues, especially nepotism. Now, actress Mrunal Thakur, who made her start with television, talked about the raging insider vs outsider debate. Talking to Hindustan Times, Mrunal said that she never felt like an outsider. She said that she found a mentor in Ekta Kapoor in television and Karan Johar guided her in Bollywood. As an actor she did whatever was offered to her and gave her hundred percent, she said. She, however, also added that it is a tough journey and hence not for everyone. Talking about nepotism, Mrunal said, I never faced nepotism. Aisa kabhi nahi hua ki Janhvi (Kapoor), Sara (Ali Khan) or Ananya (Panday) got a film and not me. But there have been many rejections." She said that there were times when before her audition she was asked why she was wasting her time. She was also told that she didnt look the part or was actor material. She said that these people never explained why they felt that way. It happened quite a few times and it did hurt, she admitted. She further came to the defense of her contemporary actresses, saying, Everyone should relax and stop blaming the star kids for everything. Many dont know how much hard work they also put in. Ive seen Ananya work really hard for Student of The Year 2 and even Janhvi for Dhadak. I know the stories. Its not easy to lose your mum and shoot and give such a big hit. Mrunal will be next seen in Jersey opposite Shahid Kapoor. It has been directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri and is a Hindi remake of the Nani-starrer Telugu film. Icon Health & Fitness, a Logan, Utah-based provider of connected fitness equipment and software, received a $200m growth investment. The round was led by L Catterton, joined by existing investor Pamplona Capital Management. The company intends to use the funds to further accelerate its growth strategy of delivering its expansive range of interactive fitness products connected by iFit, the companys patented content technology and media platform. With approximately 700,000 paid subscribers, iFit is used at home, at the gym and on-the-go across Icons diverse range of products and partnerships. Led by Scott Watterson, Founder, Chairman and CEO, Icon creates connected fitness experiences across multiple brands, multiple product categories and all consumer fitness segments. The company owns established fitness brands NordicTrack, ProForm and Freemotion, which offer connected fitness membership services powered by iFit, the live and on-demand streaming fitness and wellness media platform. ICON and iFit currently hold more than 330 technology patents, with 80 pending, and its products are present in 116 countries. iFit workouts are streamed in English, Spanish, French and Mandarin Chinese, with more languages planned for 2021. The company has revenue exceeding $1 billion in the last 12 months (ending September 30, 2020). FinSMEs 05/10/2020 Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 20:00:02|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TEHRAN, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said on Monday that Iran has prepared a plan to help settle the armed conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh region. Khatibzadeh said that there is no military solution to the decades-long dispute between Baku and Yerevan over Nagorno-Karabakh. "We hope that both sides would refrain from continuing war and violence and to pave the way for political dialogue," he said, urging both sides to abstain from endangering the lives of civilian people. Enditem "It was something that we took very seriously," she said. "We were looking at one moment in time." The resolution, which was released Thursday as part of the agenda for a special virtual meeting scheduled for Tuesday at 7 p.m., expresses the city's apology to the victims, families and Morningside Homes community for the violence and police inaction. In the resolution, the city apologizes for "the failure of any government action to effectively overcome the hate that precipitated the violence, to embrace the sorrow that resulted from the violence and to reconcile all the vestiges of those heinous events in the years subsequent to 1979." Support Local Journalism Your subscription makes our reporting possible. {{featured_button_text}} In addition to the apology, council will create an annual scholarship program called the "Morningside Homes Memorial Scholarships" honoring five graduates each year from Dudley High School in memory of the five victims: Cesar Cauce, James Waller, William Evan Sampson, Sandra Neely Smith and Michael Nathan. The scholarships will be worth $1,979 each and recipients will be recognized at the city's annual Human Rights Celebration. Vaughan said the resolution is in no way a critique of the police department as it exists today. Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro has won a fight with the Bank of England in his battle to gain access to 800m of disputed gold in its vaults. The authoritarian ruler, who has been accused of human rights abuses, has won an appeal court ruling over the row. Maduro wants to sell the assets but has been blocked by Bank officials on the basis that his hard-line government is not recognised by the UK. Victory: Nicolas Maduro wants to sell the assets but has been blocked by Bank officials on the basis that his hard-line government is not recognised by the UK The 57-year-old, who was reelected in a controversial ballot in 2018 which most opposition parties boycotted, says the bullion can help cash-starved Venezuela fight coronavirus. But opposition leader Juan Guaido, recognised by the UK as Venezuela's rightful leader, has accused Maduro of wanting to steal the gold. Yesterday, the England and Wales Court of Appeal overturned a ruling in July that said the Bank of England could not lawfully release the gold to Maduro since the UK recognises Guaido as Venezuela's leader. In its judgement it said that although it was possible that the UK's Foreign Office only recognised Guaido, in practice it deals with the Maduro government. Sarosh Zaiwalla, senior partner at Zaiwalla & Co, the law firm representing Maduro's government, told the Financial Times: 'Our client is very happy with this. The appeal has been allowed unconditionally.' Vanessa Neumann, who is Guaido's envoy in the UK, said: 'It is an irony lost on no one that a regime accused of crimes against humanity is seeking to use the British court to illicitly finance itself.' Venezuela is short of cash after the US imposed economic sanctions, crippling its oil exports. Used to be, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton could blame his legal troubles on outsiders: political opponents, spin doctors, liberal reporters and, of course, those who just didnt like him because hes a Christian conservative man of faith. In a 2016 YouTube video, Paxton said he learned a long time ago that if your opponents are screaming at you, you are probably doing something right. Only now, the screamers are Paxtons allies indeed, his own staff. In allegations that appear deeper and uglier than what partisan foes had alleged previously, Paxton is being accused of improper influence, abuse of office, bribery and other possible criminal acts by high-ranking officials in his administration. Add the fact that Paxton was already facing felony charges in a securities fraud case that has been entangled in legal maneuvering for the past five years, and the alarm bells are clanging at red-alert levels. Not one, not two, but seven of Paxtons top staffers, including the first assistant attorney general, Jeffrey C. Mateer, all signed a letter last week claiming a good faith belief that the attorney general is violating federal and/or state law, including prohibitions related to improper influence, abuse of office, bribery, and other potential offenses. They are calling for an investigation. Mateer has resigned. A spokeswoman for the attorney generals office said in a statement that the complaint against Paxton was filed to impede an ongoing investigation into criminal wrongdoing by public officials including employees of this office, suggesting that his own hand-picked aides are disloyal or dishonest. Again, Paxton is blaming others. This time, its much harder to believe. Even Gov. Greg Abbott has said the allegations raise serious concerns. While judgment on the truth of these stunning claims and counter-claims would be premature, clearly something is very, very wrong inside the attorney generals office. We say enough. Enough excuses. Enough distractions. Enough taint at what should be a respected Texas institution trusted to uphold, and practice, the rule of law. Paxton should resign as attorney general. It is the only way to restore honor and confidence in the state office tasked with protecting Texans against consumer fraud, enforcing open government laws, providing legal advice to state officials, and representing the state of Texas in court. There are too many questions, troubling circumstances and legal clouds swirling around Paxton for him to serve as the states top law enforcement officer. As we said when we first called for his resignation back in January 2016, Texans deserve an attorney general who can focus on his duties without fear of prison. We noted at the time that it was hard to see how his staff can enjoy going to work every morning when their boss is accused of violating the very laws they have sworn to uphold. That line is especially prescient given that allegations are now coming from staff members, including those who have helped Paxton fight to overturn the Affordable Care Act and to defend legislation restricting abortion rights. This is not about partisan politics or ideology; it is about respect for the rule of law. That point is driven home by the fact that U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, who served from 2014 to 2016 as Paxtons first assistant attorney general, is the first prominent Texas Republican to urge Paxton to resign. The Attorney General deserves his days in court, but the people of Texas deserve a fully functioning AGs office, Roy said in a statement released Monday. Any grace for him to resolve differences and demonstrate if the allegations are false was eliminated by his choice instead to attack the very people entrusted, by him, to lead the office some of whom I know well and whose characters are beyond reproach, Roy said. Other top Republicans, including Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, have so far said they would hold off drawing any conclusions until an investigation is complete. Just who should do that probe isnt yet clear. Regardless of that outcome, the attorney generals situation has become untenable. With Paxton at the helm, how can Texans have confidence his office is enforcing the laws without undue influence or corruption? The Houston Chronicle reported Sunday that the case involves Paxtons relationship with Austin real estate investor Nate Paul. Paul gave $25,000 to Paxton ahead of his 2018 re-election campaign. Pauls World Class Holdings offices were raided Aug. 14, 2019, by the FBI. It will take a serious investigation to get to the bottom of all this. In the meantime, Paxton needs to step down for the good of the Attorney Generals Office and for the good of Texas. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- With nine months until launch, Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator was floated out at West Sea Viana Shipyard in Portugal. The 'float out' marks the first time World Navigator enters the water and floats of her own accord. Now in wet dock, the small expedition ship is being outfitted with elegant and luxurious amenities and decor. Meanwhile, construction of World Traveller, Atlas' second expedition ship, is already in progress, and her keel was also laid at West Sea Viana Shipyard. Designed for seasoned and fun-seeking travelers to immerse in active and awe-inspiring experiences in less-trodden, bucket-list destinations, World Navigator and World Traveller will launch in July 2021 and mid-2022, respectively. Guests will enjoy one of the industry's most-inclusive experiences with the luxe-adventure cruise brand's signature All Inclusive All the Way. In addition to World Navigator and World Traveller, three additional expedition ships are on order for delivery by the end 2023. "Our first ship's float out is a momentous milestone for Atlas Ocean Voyages," said President Alberto Aliberti. "We are another major step closer to welcoming World Navigator and launching Atlas' authentic, once-in-a-lifetime adventures in the some of the world's most extraordinary places. We take care of the details so guests can focus on enjoying Atlas' luxe-adventure journeys with their family and friends, part of our signature All Inclusive All the Way. These have been very appealing for travelers with a pent-up desire to explore again. They and our valued travel advisor partners have responded very positively since we opened reservations so much that we are the only cruise brand to have ordered new ships this year." Atlas Ocean Voyages' All Inclusive All the Way makes it one of the most inclusive cruise brands in the industry. Guests enjoy greater peace of mind and seamless adventures, beginning with included complimentary roundtrip air travel from major North American gateways to the remote and captivating destinations where Atlas sails. A 'first' for the industry and an example of how the brand is innovating with the evolving priorities of general travel, Atlas is also including emergency medical evacuation insurance with every booking. Guests can rest assured that they will expeditiously obtain the appropriate attention in case of a medical emergency. The insurance covers emergency medical transportation from the ship to a local treatment center, as well as return transportation to home or a medical facility close to home, as required. On extended voyages, guests also enjoy MAX SHORE, complimentary three- to five-night, overland immersions that bring guests to the must-see attractions and cultural gems only found inland. These free 'vacations-within-vacations' deliver more once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as hot-air ballooning over Pamukkale's mineral pools and petrified forest; glamping under the Jordanian stars and catching sunrise over Petra; and even touring the infamous Chernobyl power plant and overnighting in the exclusion zone, with more to be announced. MAX SHORE itineraries are also All Inclusive All the Way, with transportation, meals, beverages, premium lodging, and most of all, access. Shipboard, experienced, inquisitive and fun-seeing travelers will find community with like-spirited guests as they revel in the ship's welcoming and lively lounges. With All Inclusive All the Way, guests can be more carefree and enjoy features such as complimentary prepaid gratuities; premium wine and spirits and international craft beers; coffees and smoothies; Wi-Fi; L'Occitane bath amenities; complimentary shore excursions in select ports; Michelin-inspired dining; binoculars onboard; coffee, tea and personalized bar service in every room; butler service in suites; and engaging and knowledgeable service from every staff and crew member. For her inaugural season, World Navigator will embark on seven- to 24-night itineraries in the Holy Land, Black and Mediterranean Seas, followed by nine- to 13-night itineraries in the Caribbean, South America and on Antarctic expeditions for winter 2021/22. Atlas' newly constructed, safe, clean and green, small expedition ships foster a refined and convivial ambience and can accommodate up to 196 guests. World Navigator and her sister ships are Polar Category-C and Ice Class-1B certified, with all of the most-modern hygiene and cleanliness measures incorporated into their design. For more information, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com and follow Atlas Ocean Voyage on Facebook (www.facebook.com/AtlasOceanVoyages), Twitter (www.twitter.com/atlascruises), and Instagram (www.instagram.com/AtlasOceanVoyages). Travel Advisors can call 1-844-44-ATLAS (1-844-442-8527) to book their clients on an unforgettable luxe-adventure journey. SOURCE Atlas Ocean Voyages Govt freezes bank accounts of Amnesty India for circumventing law The government has finally decided to freeze the bank accounts of Amnesty International, a foreign entity working under the garb of human rights research, for circumventing laws of the land for collection and distribution of illegal funds in the country. The ministry of home affairs said the organisation was indulging in "illegal practices" due to which its earlier applications to receive funds from overseas had also been rejected. Amnesty UK remitted large amounts of money to four entities registered in India, by classifying it as FDI, the ministry said. In fact, the ministry said, Amnesty never had a licence to collect funds from abroad except in September 2000, when Amnesty International received permission under Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) for once. In order to circumvent the FCRA regulations, Amnesty UK remitted large amounts of money to four entities registered in India, by classifying it as Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). A significant amount of foreign money was also remitted to Amnesty (India) without MHAs approval under FCRA. This mala fide rerouting of money was in contravention of extant legal provisions, the MHA said. This bipartisan and purely legal approach towards Amnesty, under different governments, makes it clear that the entire fault lies in the dubious processes adopted by Amnesty to secure funds for its operations. "The stand taken and statements by Amnesty International are unfortunate, exaggerated and far from the truth. Amnesty International had received permission under Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) only once and that too 20 years ago (19.12.2000)," said the ministry of home affairs (MHA) in a statement on Tuesday. "Since then Amnesty International has been denied FCRA approval by successive governments since it is not eligible to get such approval. In order to circumvent FCRA regulations, Amnesty UK remitted large amounts of money to four entities registered in India, by classifying it as FDI." "Amnesty is free to continue humanitarian work in India. However, India doesn't allow interference in domestic political debates by entities funded by foreign donations. This law applies equally to all and it shall apply to Amnesty International as well," said the MHA. The ministrys clarification comes after Amnesty International India announced it will close its operations in the country after being "compelled to let go off staff in India" and halt all its research work since all its bank accounts have been frozen. Amnesty had called the governments move to freeze its bank accounts a witch-hunt over unfounded and motivated allegations. "Owing to these illegal practices of Amnesty, the previous government had also rejected repeated applications of Amnesty to receive funds from overseas. This had led Amnesty to suspend its India operations once during that period as well," it added. Amnesty is aggrieved of the complicity of Delhi police in the riots that broke out the national capital in February. It is also worried about the injustice of quelling terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, which it sees as violation of human rights. Amnesty International India executive director Avinash Kumar said the continuing crackdown on the organisation over the last two years and the complete freezing of bank accounts is not accidental. The constant harassment by government agencies including the Enforcement Directorate is a result of our unequivocal calls for transparency in the government, more recently for accountability of the Delhi police and the Government of India regarding the grave human rights violations in Delhi riots and Jammu & Kashmir. For a movement that has done nothing but raise its voices against injustice, this latest attack is akin to freezing dissent, he said. Amnesty is being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate over alleged irregularities in receiving foreign funds. According to the home ministry, the human rights organisation "got money into India through the FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) route," which is not allowed in the case of non-profits. Ukraine's Foreign Ministry has plans to hold a Crimean summit in Ukraine in 2021, Ukraine's First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzhaparova has said. "The goal [of the Crimean Platform] is to systematize existing events. These are all resolutions, statements, declarations that we have, which are important from the point of view of preventing an even worse scale of repression in the occupied Crimea, but also new initiatives, in particular, these are The Crimean summit, which we plan to hold in Ukraine in 2021. We believe that this summit should be permanent. This is an initiative of Ukraine and, accordingly, an invitation from Ukraine. Today, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working out a range of countries that will join this initiative," she said on Monday. According to her, the invitation to join this platform is open to all those countries that see this as expedient. "We take a certain time for ourselves in order to convey this invitation We understand that this invitation is open to all those who see the expediency of joining this platform. We have no illusions that all countries will join it, but today, in the context of our initiatives and their support, including within the UN, there is already a certain range of countries that can be called 'coalition countries' or countries of the Crimean Platform," she added. During the briefing, the deputy minister clarified that the Crimean platform should cover several dimensions, in particular, the highest political level (leaders of countries, top officials of states), the level of foreign ministers, defense ministers, parliamentary level and expert level. "I emphasize that we have made a decision that Russia will be invited to participate in the events of the Crimean platform, however, given that the uncivilized behavior of the Russian Federation is not a secret for us, we do not expect it to accept this invitation," she said. Dzhaparova indicated that several dates for the summit are being considered, in particular, one of them is February 26, the Day of Crimea's resistance to the Russian occupation. The Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine added that she plans to make a visit to Vienna, during which she will raise the topic of Crimea, advocacy for the Crimean platform, and also discuss the idea of constant OSCE monitoring of the Ukrainian-Russian border. COVID-19 In Canada Canada introduces exemptions to border restrictions Beginning on Oct. 8, certain extended family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, and people who want to come to Canada for compassionate reasons, will be able to enter the country. Family members who qualify include: Individuals in an exclusive dating relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident for at least one year, who have physically spent time with each other, and these individuals dependent children Non-dependent children (adult children who do not meet the definition of a dependent child in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations) Grandchildren, grandparents and siblings (including half and step siblings) Pre-arrival approval is required, with more details on the application process set to be revealed next week, and each individual must be staying in Canada for more than 15 days. Marco Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, said individuals in an exclusive dating relationship must have been dating for a period of at least one year and are required submit a notarized declaration of their relationship status to relevant authorities. Beginning on Oct. 20, international students who are studying at a designated learning institution, that has been approved by their provincial or territorial government as having a COVID-19 readiness plan, will also be able to enter Canada. Mendicino stressed that travellers should not make any travel plans until they have received all the necessary pre-arrival authorizations. Anyone coming into Canada needs to following all the public health measures in place, including the 14-day quarantine requirement. Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, said foreign nationals coming into Canada on compassionate grounds can apply for a limited release from the mandatory quarantine. She explained these very specific situations include being with someone you love to say goodbye at the end of their life, or a funeral or end of life ceremony. This exemption will be allowed in coordination with provincial or territorial government and must be approved before arrival. Story continues Hajdu stressed that the COVID-19 cases in Canada, at this point, are largely related to community transmission, not travel. Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, specified that only about two per cent of cases in Canada are related to travel. That isnt an argument for reducing our efforts at the border and rather, in fact, its evidence of the efficacy of the work that we have done, effectiveness of both the public health response...and the efforts of our border service officers, he said. The robust travel restrictions weve put into place to protect the health and safety of Canadians remains in effect, Mendocino stressed. The pandemic is an ongoing threat and we need to continue to be cautious and restrictive about who can enter into Canada. We recognize, however, that these restrictions shouldnt keep loved ones apart. Canada scaling up federal public health presence at border Blair confirmed Friday that the federal government is dramatically scaling up public health presence at the Canadian border to cover 36 points of entry, which account for 90 per cent of all traffic into Canada during normal operations. The government will deploy 190 public health workers across the country by the end of the fiscal year. He said there will be 24/7 access to quarantine officer support through the Central Notification System and digital portals, like the ArriveCAN app, are available for travellers to share information that can be transmitted to provinces and territories quickly and securely. In terms of enforcing the quarantine rule, Blair confirmed that local law enforcement have full authority to issues fines related to any lack of adherence to the federal measure. When asked if Canadians should expect additional border restrictions to be lifted by the end of the year, the minister of public safety and emergency preparedness said the situation will continue to be carefully monitored. Until we can be assured, based on the advice that we receive from our public health officials...that we believe that those restrictions can be lifted safely, we will keep them in place, Blair said. We have to take these measures to keep people safe. Hajdu said that the federal government is actively investigating and supporting research around whether the submission of a negative COVID-19 test by travellers can be added to the existing requirements at the border, possibly impacting the 14-day quarantine requirement. Ontario pausing social bubbles The Ontario government announced a number of additional restrictions on Friday, which include pausing social bubbles as of Oct. 3, ahead of Thanksgiving. The new guidance specifies that the provincial government is advising Ontarians to allow close contact only with people living in their own household and maintain two metres physical distancing from everyone else. It goes on to say that individuals living alone may consider having close contact with another household. We did the [bubbles] and people, in the end of the summer into September, just moved those way out beyond what they should have done, Dr. David Williams, Ontarios chief medical officer of health said at a press conference on Friday. Dr. Dirk Huyer, Ontarios chief coroner and executive lead of the COVID-19 Testing Approach, revealed that when a positive case has been detected, there have been upwards of 25 contacts that they have exposed themselves to. Thats a tremendous number, thats way more than very careful...[interaction] with others, Dr. Huyer said. Everybody has to think carefully about where theyre going and what theyre doing, and assess the potential risk, assess the potential chance for transmission. The province also outlined a number of measures that will be implemented in hot spots Ottawa, Peel and Toronto specifically. Capacity at restaurants, bars, nightclubs and other food and drink establishments is restricted to a maximum of 100 patrons, physically distanced, with no more than six people per table. Contact information for each patron must also be collected. Only 50 people are allowed at banquet halls, and meeting and event facilities, also with a maximum of six people per table. Group exercise classes at gyms and other fitness facilities are limited to 10 people, with a maximum capacity of 50 people total in these settings. Ontario Premier Doug Ford said these new restrictions are being put in place after the province received a real wake up call with the latest modelling data showing the Ontario could see 1,000 new cases a day by mid-October. Appointment-based COVID-19 testing only As of Oct. 6, COVID-19 tests at assessment centres will only be conducted by appointment. Beginning on Oct. 4, assessment centres will no longer be providing walk-in services. Ford said this is a particularly important change to make as the cold weather approaches, stressing that people shouldnt be waiting out in the cold, rain or snow for a COVID-19 test. Matthew Anderson, president and CEO of Ontario Health, spoke about how this new rule will impact the provinces ability to catch up on the backlog of 90,000 COVID-19 test. Were not able to distribute he load quite as efficiently as we could to ultimately get that test result back to people, Anderson says. He said this will allow people to be screened for eligibility before they arrive and people with symptoms, or vulnerable individuals, can be prioritized. The momentum of the COVID-19 epidemic curve is the opposite of a rollercoaster Dr. Theresa Tam, Canadas chief public health officer, warned the public at a press conference on Friday that as many areas continue to see high COVID-19 infection rates, local public health, health-care and laboratory services are at risk of being overwhelmed if the curve of the pandemic cant be bent. The momentum of the COVID-19 epidemic curve is the opposite of a rollercoaster, Dr. Tam said. The way up is fast and easy, but the way down is long and slow. Downward momentum can be stopped or even reversed with any wrong step we take. She asked all Canadians to double down on their efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19, especially as frontline and essential workers continue to provide care and services for Canadians despite their COVID fatigue of the highest order. This time weve got to bend it like Canadians, Dr. Tam said. Well need to give it the old double-double by layering personal risk assessment and prevention practices, and reconfiguring and downsizing our in-person contact bubbles. Its time to step up to the plate and get in the game. As many of the recent COVID-19 cases have been in younger Canadians, the chief public health officer highlighted that the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Entertainment Software Association of Canada are joining forces to reach millions of gamers with messaging on the public health measures in place. Paying tribute to law enforcement, a group of approximately 100 Jesus March participants made a special stop at Brandon Police Service headquarters on Saturday. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us Paying tribute to law enforcement, a group of approximately 100 Jesus March participants made a special stop at Brandon Police Service headquarters on Saturday. Much of the march to that point offered a broad focus, with participants chanting and singing various messages related to Jesus Christs love, such as "May the Lord smile on you in a very special way." Stopping at the cenotaph outside of police headquarters on Victoria Avenue, the multi-denominational group made up of approximately nine congregations took a moment to narrow their focus. Devoting part of the event to praising law enforcement was a special means of honouring local heroes who dont always receive the praise they deserve, said Ray Johnson, one of the inaugural events key organizers. TYLER CLARKE Jesus March key organizers David Ironstand, Ray Johnson and Friday Olowookere share a laugh with Brandon Police Service chaplain Bruce Ewanyshyn, left, during Saturdays event. "Its unfortunate that people have lost respect or honour for authority, and its something that needs to be brought back," said Johnson, who worked as a correctional officer in Brandon in the mid-1970s. At the cenotaph, marchers were joined by Brandon Police Service chaplain Bruce Ewanyshyn, who on Oct. 1 marked 30 years in law enforcement. Following his remarks of thanks and prayer, he told the Sun that the groups words of support mean a lot. "It means there is support for police officers, first responders, correctional officers, military from the public," he said. "Its easy to put our focus on the negative things, because a lot of times thats what carries more weight, but when you focus on the other part, which is the majority, there is the encouragement from the public." TYLER CLARKE/THE BRANDON SUN Brandon Police Service chaplain Bruce Ewanyshyn speaks during Saturdays Jesus March outside of police headquarters. This years wave of anti-police sentiment was sparked by the death of George Floyd, a Black man, in Minneapolis, Minn. A widely circulated video of the incident shows white police officer Derek Chauvin kneel on Floyds neck, pinning him to the ground. Floyd is repeatedly heard saying he cannot breathe. Chauvin has since been charged in relation to Floyds death alongside three other officers, who were all fired. Other incidents of violence have followed, which has resulted in a push to defund the police and the popularity of phrases such as A.C.A.B. (All Cops Are Bastards). TYLER CLARKE Ray Johnson blows an Israeli horn during their stop outside of Brandon Police Service headquarters on Saturday. The call represented repentance and victory. "It has filtered into Canada," Ewanyshyn said. "We see it affecting officers families, we hear the words spoken. As police officers, were just as appalled by whats happened as a person not serving with the police. "Sometimes, people believe were separate and apart from society, but thats not true. Were here to serve, and were here to serve our community." This idea of serving his community is what Ewanyshyn said drew him to pursue a career in law enforcement 30 years ago, and toward chaplaincy six years ago. "Its wonderful that people in Brandon come together," he said. "Its events like this that encourage us to continue." Saturdays Jesus March was a great success, Johnson said, describing the parade of people wearing red T-shirts as appearing "like the blood of Jesus going through the streets the main artery of Brandon and bringing life." He said the goal is for next years event to be even bigger, and for it to cap off with a large-scale celebration at Princess Park. That, he said, will all depend on how the COVID-19 pandemic pans out. Saturdays march found many participants wear masks and make an effort to physically distance. tclarke@brandonsun.com Twitter: @TylerClarkeMB The available episodes of Bad Boy Billionaires focus on business moguls Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Sahara boss Subrata Roy. Netflix recently released three out of four episodes of Bad Boy Billionaires, after a civil court in Hyderabad had issued an interim stay restraining the OTT platform from airing the series on a petition filed by Byrraju Ramalinga Raju, convicted in Satyam Computers scandal, according to Reuters. The available episodes focus on business moguls Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Sahara boss Subrata Roy. Bad Boy Billionaires was initially scheduled to release on 2 September. According to the promos, the show featured Mehul Choksi and Raju along with Mallya, Modi, and Roy. Netflixs description for the show ran as: This investigative docuseries explores the greed, fraud, and corruption that built up and ultimately brought down Indias most infamous tycoons. Amit Shrivastava, a lawyer for Netflix said that injunction on the show had been lifted. He did not comment on why the court may have rescinded its previous order. The episode featuring Raju has not been aired. On 2 September, Raju alleged that the docuseries would infringe his rights of fair- trial and privacy besides defaming and tarnishing his image across nations. Previously, Roy and Choksi had also approached the courts and requested a stay on the series. A lower court had asked Netflix not to use Roy's name, which was challenged by the streamer. Choksi had filed a plea in the Delhi HC seeking pre-screening of the documentary. The court had later dismissed his plea. Sally Librera joins HNTB We are delighted to welcome Sally to HNTB in this new role that capitalizes on her strengths and skills in strategic planning and operational readiness to deliver extraordinary value to our clients, said Stephen Dilts, HNTB New York office leader and senior vice president. HNTB Corporation announced today that Sally Librera will join the firm as vice president of strategic planning and client support. Her career in transportation includes 16 years spent solving infrastructure and transportation challenges in the New York area. Librera is based in HNTBs Empire State Building office and will support clients throughout the Northeast and across the country. We are delighted to welcome Sally to HNTB in this new role that capitalizes on her strengths and skills in strategic planning and operational readiness to deliver extraordinary value to our clients, said Stephen Dilts, HNTB New York office leader and senior vice president. Her attention to details, data and front-line employee engagement will be incredibly valuable for our clients who are solving unprecedented challenges as the countrys transportation systems rebound from the effects of COVID-19. In her new role at HNTB, Librera is responsible for utilizing data analytics to drive strategic planning and operational/capital best value that improves clients performance and reduces operating and capital costs. Her counsel will allow them to be ready to deliver operations smarter, faster and efficiently coming out of the pandemic. She also will develop and deliver business plans that drive performance turnaround and strategic investments, with a business process re-engineering mindset that fosters whole life cycle asset management and reliability-based maintenance. Libera will identify market trends to support smart business decisions for HNTBs clients and to advise decision makers across agencies and states. In her most recent role at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority as senior vice president - NYC transit subways -- a post she was the first woman to hold -- Librera led all aspects of daily operations for North Americas largest urban rail network; one of nearly 700 track miles, 472 stations and 5.6 million daily riders pre-pandemic. Librera led the 30,000-person subway team through a dramatic performance turnaround, significantly improving on-time performance, cutting delays in half, and safely reducing run times on every line in the system. Prior to heading the NYC subway system, Librera led the MTAs Staten Island Railway, where she also served in the groundbreaking role of first female leader to lead Staten Islands 24/7 heavy rail operation. Librera also held several key leadership posts at NYC Transit, including vice president & chief officer for subways operations support; chief officer, subways operations training; and chief officer, workforce development. Librera received dual masters degrees from the University of California, Berkeley in city & regional planning and civil & environmental engineering. She also has a Bachelor of Science in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University. She has spoken at many industry gatherings, including serving as keynote speaker for the Transportation Diversity Council Massachusetts Institute of Technologys Transportation & Infrastructure Summit; presenter at American Public Transportation Associations annual conference; and panelist for Womens Transportation Seminar on Glass Ceiling Panel: Women Who Have Broken Through. About HNTB HNTB Corporation is an employee-owned infrastructure firm serving public and private owners and contractors. With 106 years of service in the United States, HNTB understands the life cycle of infrastructure and addresses clients most complex technical, financial and operational challenges. Professionals nationwide deliver a full range of infrastructure-related services, including award-winning planning, design, and program and construction management. For more information, visit http://www.hntb.com, or follow HNTB on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. Bengaluru, Oct 5 : Unfazed by the day-long raids on him and his relatives by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Congress' Karnataka unit President, D.K. Shivakumar on Monday said that the agency could recover only Rs 1.37 lakh from his house and around Rs 3 lakh from his office and not Rs 57 lakh as it claimed. Addressing reporters at his residence here, he dared the CBI to release 'panchanama' (record of evidence/findings at the location of crime) to prove their claim in their statement released to the media. "I am responsible and accountable for what is recovered from my residence and office where I stay and operate, not for what has been recovered from elsewhere," he said. Terming that raids on him "politically motivated", Shivakumar asserted that every time that central agencies conducted raids on him, unfortunately he was busy with one or the other elections. "Thus, it prompts anyone to think and presume that this was a politically-motivated case and raids... though I do not find fault with the Central agencies, as they were doing their duty," he said sarcastically. Launching a veiled attack on the media, Shivakumar claimed that it always goes overboard while covering such events related to him and his family members. "Since morning, I am observing some channels reported that Rs 3 crore cash was recovered and I would be arrested. At the end of the day, truth prevailed... I am neither arrested nor a huge sum of cash recovered as was being sensationally revealed by the channels," he said. New Delhi, Oct 5 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is examining an FIR registered by the Hathras police against a website for criminal conspiracy to incite communal violence in Uttar Pradesh following the recent brutal murder of a Dalit girl. Top sources told IANS that the ED may file a case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against the website 'JusticeforHathras' created on the platform carrd.com, as preliminary investigation has indicated funding for violent protests from a dubious organisation. The Uttar Pradesh Police have filed an FIR in the Chandpa police station in Hathras district under as many as 20 different sections, including criminal conspiracy and Information Technology Act, 2008. The police claimed that the protests in the Hathras case was a major ploy to destabilise the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government, using a website with foreign links. The FIR suspected that a website named 'JusticeforHathras' was created to disseminate fake information related to the Hathras incident to provoke caste-related violence across the state, where caste lines are deep and entrenched. Sources said that after the website was tracked and some related places were raided, the site deactivated and disappeared overnight. However, the law and order agencies have secured all the inflammatory content of the website. The police said the website shared information about nationwide protests on the Hathras case and ways to evade police action. The website was also used as a platform for raising foreign funds on the same pattern as anti-CAA rioting in Delhi, sources said, adding that radical extremist groups like PFI could be behind it. Sources said the FIR has been filed under Section 153 A and others which are scheduled offences under the PMLA and all the money collected by committing this crime is liable to be confiscated by the ED. The action can be followed with arrests and prosecution which entails a jail term of seven years under the PMLA. The ED will make foreign enquiries and also find out from the domain servers the details of the money collected and utilised thereof. Sources said the ED will also examine the ultimate beneficiaries of the money collected by this website. The service provider will be questioned about the website which hosted this page as it should mandatorily have IP address records from where the web page was launched. Sources said the ED will also get traffic analysis from the CERT for first IP resolution and IPDR analysis of suspects to check if they all tried to access the site before it became public to check collaborations and coordination. The ED will also check the email ids and phone numbers used to buy domain or host and conduct reverse investigation on them. There has been a delay in nearly 16,000 positive coronavirus results being added to the official figures, the government has announced. It comes as a further 22,961 lab-confirmed cases of the coronavirus were recorded in the UK, taking the total number to more than 500,000 since the outbreak began. The government said that, due to a technical issue, there had been a delay in publishing 15,841 cases in England, meaning the total reported over the coming days will include some additional cases from between 25 September and 2 October. Public Health England (PHE) said the people involved all received the test results and those who tested positive were advised to self-isolate. "Today and yesterday's headline numbers are large due to the backlog of cases flowing through the total reporting process," PHE said in a statement. And joint medical director Dr Susan Hopkins told Sky News: "There's no delay in people receiving their test results. "The delays are in reporting to the dashboard and to the public and there's been a delay in contact tracing initiation. "Public Health England apologise that this occurred and have put in place steps to prevent this happening again." Speaking earlier, the prime minister admitted there had been a "failure in the counting system" and that the issue was not ongoing. "All the people who had a positive test have now been notified and I think the data that we have is realistic, and again it's very useful in helping us to identify you know where the incidence is and what we need to do to tackle it," he said in an interview with the BBC's Andrew Marr Show. Northern Ireland secretary Brandon Lewis said the revisions were evidence of the government and NHS Test and Trace being "transparent" about the testing numbers. He told Sophy Ridge on Sunday: "As soon as they've spotted there was an issue, they've dug into that, they've got to the bottom of those numbers, they have been transparent and published the correct numbers and of course the teams will be looking through that to ensure it doesn't happen again." Story continues However, Labour said the failure to record almost 16,000 positive COVID-19 cases was "shambolic". Shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said: "This is shambolic and people across the country will be understandably alarmed. "Matt Hancock should come to the House of Commons on Monday to explain what on earth has happened, what impact it has had on our ability to contain this virus and what he plans to do to fix test and trace." PHE provided a breakdown of how many cases were not included in each day's figures, which are as follows: 957 cases on September 25, when the original figure given was 6,874 744 on September 26, when the original figure given was 6,042 757 on September 27, when the original figure given was 5,693 None on September 28, when the original figure given was 4,044 1,415 on September 29, when the original figure given was 7,143 3,049 on September 30, when the original figure given was 7,108 4,133 on October 1, when the original figure given was 6,914 4,786 on October 2, when the original figure given was 6,968 Boris Johnson also warned the coronavirus pandemic "will be bumpy through to Christmas" and potentially beyond, and that it is "too early to say" whether local lockdowns are working. :: Subscribe to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker He acknowledged there will be some members of the public who are "furious at me" and "furious at the government" amid the continuing COVID-19 restrictions. "I've got to tell you in all candour it's going to continue to be bumpy through to Christmas, it may even be bumpy beyond." LOUISVILLE, Ky. - A police officer wounded during protests rekindled by the announcement that no officers were being charged in the death of Breonna Taylor has been released from the hospital. Louisville Metro Police Officer Robinson Desroches and another officer were shot on Sept. 23 during protests held after prosecutors announced a single officer had been indicted on charges of wanton endangerment for firing into a home next to Taylors, but not on charges involving the Black womans death. Desroches was shot in the abdomen and underwent surgery. He was released from the hospital Sunday and is currently recovering with family, Louisville police spokeswoman Alicia Smiley told news outlets. Another officer, Maj. Aubrey Gregory, was treated for a hip wound and released. Gregory returned to work last week. Larynzo D. Johnson, 26, was charged with two counts of assault on a police officer and 14 counts of wanton endangerment of a police officer. Johnson has pleaded not guilty. His bond was set at $1 million. Salem Ramadan Musa, a 33-year-old Bedouin from the Jebeliya tribe, used to make a living for years working as a mountain guide for hikers who came to the town of Saint Catherine, in the southern Sinai Peninsula, an area renowned for its trekking routes. Then, the coronavirus pandemic made a rather intrusive entrance into his world. With tourists staying away from Egypt and given the economic distress that was put on Musa and his family due to the lack of hiking trips, they decided in mid-May to move to an ancient orchard that belonged to his father in a valley deep into the high mountains of southern Sinai. When they arrived, they fixed the wall surrounding the site and an old well, built a hut to settle and dug a second well. And by taking advantage of the favorable weather and the large amount of water available in the region this year, they started to grow green beans, tomatoes, peppers, aubergines, arugula and corn in order to sustain themselves during this crisis. I am happy because I went back to the old lifestyle, Musa told Al-Monitor. His family is not alone. Since the outbreak of the pandemic, there has been a large-scale movement of Bedouins retreating deep into the mountains and the desert to live a more traditional life both in southern Sinai and the Red Sea mountains, outside of the tourist city of Hurghada. The two main factors that drove this retreat, which has involved at least hundreds of Bedouins, include the collapse of tourism and the search for safer places than towns to stay amid a pandemic. A lot of the time it is not visible because desert people are pretty much invisible in every sense: We dont see them because they are in the desert, and we dont hear them because there arent many channels to communicate or get information [from them], said Ben Hoffler, co-founder of the Sinai Trail and the Red Sea Mountain Trail and who is closely connected to locals in both regions. He told Al-Monitor, But the impact of the coronavirus has been big. In southern Sinai, the consequences of the crisis have largely depended on the area and the economic opportunities that existed in the place. The most affected parts have been the coastal cities of Nuweiba, Dahab and Sharm el-Sheikh, including the villages and towns around them, all heavily dependent on tourism, and Saint Catherine, strongly dependent on this industry as well. Other areas off the map of tourism that relied on other economic activities, such as mining and agriculture, have been less affected. Saint Catherine, in the heart of south Sinai, is one of the places where the retreat of locals to the mountains has been clearer. In this area, historically characterized for an ancient network of orchards that have been largely neglected for decades as the tourism sector in the area increased, the outbreak of the pandemic has pushed tens of families back to the old orchards to live a more traditional life. Musa alone knows 15 families that have moved to their family orchards in the high mountains, and another 10 that started to go there on a daily basis. Zahra Magdi, a botany and chemistry graduate who launched a local initiative in 2017 Mountain Rose aimed at creating fresh opportunities for these ancient orchards through modern products, told Al-Monitor that it is difficult to estimate the overall number of families that have started to revive old orchards, but she believes that this could amount to around 50 at most. The local government in Saint Catherine has also been encouraging people to start growing their own food in order to achieve some degree of self-sufficiency at a local level, Magdi said. To this effect, the municipality has helped provide five greenhouses, which were recently delivered to the locals. The mayor has also offered the locals plots of land and water for free. Outside of Saint Catherine, many Bedouins have also gone back to the desert, where some still move as a caravan with tents, and have started to raise goats, sheep, camels, grow their orchards and collect herbs, Ahmed, who is also the head of the Sinai Trail, told Al-Monitor. This is what happened in 1973, when there was a war in Sinai, and also in 1967, Ahmed, one of the two leaders of the Jebeliya tribe in Saint Catherine, said. This is what I heard from my father and grandfather that when there was a war the Bedouins would go back to the desert and the mountains. In the Red Sea mountains, the pandemic has had an even severer impact. There, Bedouins are even more dependent on tourism than those in Sinai, especially because of the lack of economic alternatives and because their role in the industry is more precarious, limited and fragile this left them with less options to survive when the tourists vanished. That didnt only mean that [those directly working in the tourism industry] lost their livelihoods, but it also meant that the network of exchange that they had with extended family which would often be living a nomadic lifestyle in the desert would be cut, Hoffler warned. So life became harder for everybody. Many families found themselves forced to sell parts of their herd mainly goats and sheep which is their main source of material wealth in order to bring money in and absorb the shock. Some had to sell up to half of their herd, he noted. Since then, many have taken the remaining animals and returned to the desert to live the life that their fathers and grandfathers lived, which is more based on moving between water sources, areas of grazing and using the resources in the desert to survive, according to Hoffler. What they are relying on [now] is being able to build those herds back up in time, he said. They are hoping that in one or two years they will be able to [return to their previous activities], but in the time they are doing that life becomes more precarious with their wealth reduced. If there is any other kind of disaster they are much more vulnerable [to face it], he added. Now, despite the resumption July 1 of tourism in Egypt, the number of tourists arriving in south Sinai and the Red Sea region is still low. According to Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Khaled al-Anani, about 150,000 tourists had visited the cities of Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada up to Aug. 31. The previous year, both cities were listed among the tourist destinations expected to witness the largest growth in Egypt. As part of these attempts to gradually reactivate tourism in these regions, both the Red Sea Mountain Trail and the Sinai Trail are resuming their activities. The first organized its first trip Sept. 25, and the latter will follow suit by the end of October. How this retreat by the Bedouins to a more traditional lifestyle will evolve now that the country tries to go back to normal remains to be seen. But for the Bedouins the pandemic has just been the last in a long list of warnings that seem to be again gradually changing their perspectives. Now, because of the coronavirus, even if tourists come back to Sinai again most Bedouins I have spoken to want to keep a balance between the tourism business and the traditional lifestyle and this is good news, Ahmed noted. Magdi, from the Mountain Rose, also believes that after the pandemic Bedouins might still look to keep a balance. People here like to earn money very fast, so when tourism is back I am not sure what they will do, she said. But I feel that people now better know the value of the natural resources they have, and they will appreciate it more. The last 10 years have been a hard lesson for Sinai, Hoffler concluded. I think it has shown the Bedouins that tourism is good when it is here. But tourism can be affected by many things: it can be affected by politics, by terrorism or by pandemics that seemingly come out of nowhere. And this will result in people entirely leaving the tourism industry; they will certainly think about other ways they can work alongside of it. Angola, IN (46703) Today Becoming cloudy with snow likely overnight. Low 19F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 90%. About one inch of snow expected.. Tonight Becoming cloudy with snow likely overnight. Low 19F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 90%. About one inch of snow expected. Scott Disick has recently sparked more relationship rumors, following a date with model Bella Banos. But the Talentless creator appears to be more focused on family, as he enjoys some father/son bonding. He rocked a dad casual look Sunday in a blue flannel shirt, as he stepped out for a boys night with 10-year-old son Mason Dash, whom he took to dinner at celeb-favorite sushi spot Nobu Malibu. Boys night out: Scott Disick rocked a dad casual look Sunday in a blue flannel shirt, as he stepped out for a boys night with 10-year-old son Mason Dash, whom he took to dinner at celeb-favorite sushi spot Nobu Malibu The 37-year-old complemented the shirt with a pair of army green cargo pants and some chunky white sneakers. He wore his shirt unbuttoned at the top, revealing his sunglasses, hanging from a gold necklace, matching his gold watch. Disick previously took to his Instagram Story with a photo from the back of a limo, with his and Mason's feet propped up in front of a TV, writing: 'Boys night!' Their outing came just days after he dined with Banos, 24, at the same restaurant, following his split with Sofia Richie, 22, earlier this year. Stay gold: The 37-year-old wore his shirt unbuttoned at the top, revealing his sunglasses, hanging from a gold necklace, matching his gold watch Dad casual: He complemented the shirt with a pair of army green cargo pants and some chunky white sneakers Drive-in movie: Disick previously took to his Instagram Story with a photo from the back of a limo, with his and Mason's feet propped up in front of a TV The pair has a past, as he reportedly invited her along on a family getaway to Costa Rica in 2017, the trip where he was infamously caught with a girl in his room. She told In Touch at the time: 'Scott calls me his girl and we have said "I love you." At first, Scott was just my friend. But he got to know me on a different level. Were super connected.' The YouTube vlogger added: 'Scott will call and say, "I miss you. I want to see you." He always flies me to wherever he is. We spend so much time together.' New girlfriend? Their outing came just days after he dined with model Bella Banos, 24, at the same restaurant, following his split with Sofia Richie, 22, earlier this year Romantic history: The pair has a past, as he reportedly invited her along on a family getaway to Costa Rica in 2017, the trip where he was infamously caught with a girl in his room Unfollowed: Since their dinner date, Richie appears to have unfollowed him on Instagram, as well as his ex Kourtney Kardashian, 41 (pictured in February, 2020) Since their dinner date, Richie appears to have unfollowed him on Instagram, as well as his ex Kourtney Kardashian, 41, with whom he shares Mason, daughter Penelope Scotland, eight, and son Reign Aston, five. Disick has recently been spending time with Kourtney and their kids during quarantine, after he split with Sofia back in May. An insider told People in August of the split: 'It's always been difficult for them to balance their relationship with Scott's family life. His kids will always come first.' Top leaders of Vietnam and China agree to step up result-oriented cooperation Vietnamese Party General Secretary and President Nguyen Phu Trong and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping consented to stepping up result-oriented cooperation between the two countries during their phone talk on September 29. The Vietnamese leader emphasised that 2020 is an important milestone in bilateral diplomatic ties, and affirmed that over the past seven decades, friendship and cooperation has always been the focus of the relationship between Vietnam and China although it has experienced many ups and downs. General Secretary Trong suggested the two countries increase all-level and people-to-people exchanges, and consolidate mutual trust and understanding in order to create a firm social foundation for the bilateral ties. For his part, the Chinese leader stressed that the Chinese Party and State attach great importance to the traditional friendly neighbourliness with Vietnam, pledging that China will continue to support Vietnam to successfully complete its role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2020-2021, and ASEAN Chair in 2020. NA Chairwoman sends message to UNGA High-level Meeting National Assembly Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan. (Photo: VNA) National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan on October 1 (New York time) sent an important message to the UNGA High-level Meeting to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Fourth World Conference on Women. In her message, the Vietnamese top legislator stressed that gender equality and the empowerment of women are top priorities at international and regional parliamentary forums, adding that promotion of gender equality and women's rights is a consistent policy of Vietnam as this is enshrined in our Constitution and guaranteed in practice. The National Assembly of Vietnam has adopted wide-ranging legal documents to advance womens empowerment and encourage their participation across economic, political and social domains. It also supervises the enforcement of legislation and implementation of Government policies in these matters. This year, in its capacity as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, the ASEAN Chair and the President of the 41st ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, Vietnam has been championing initiatives on women and girls at these critical institutions. We will continue working with all partners towards a truly equal society and a world of sustainable peace and development. Asia Times: Vietnam an outlier during COVID-19 pandemic Asia Times has run an article saying that the Vietnamese economy will soon recover after COVID-19 pandemic and become one of the best performers in the world. It cited the data as showing that Vietnams GDP growth in the second quarter of 2020 was about 0.4% year-on-year. Although this was the economys worst performance in 35 years, it was exceptional compared with its neighbours, some suffering from negative growth due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The World Bank forecasts that Vietnams GDP growth could reach 2.8% in 2020 and will recover to 6.7% next year, while S&P Global Ratings expects that Vietnam will be the second-best performer among Asian economies this year. The article noted all this indicates that the country is well able to bounce back soon from the crisis. Thus Vietnam should re-emerge quickly in the post-pandemic period, making it one of the best performers in the global economy, as it has been over the past decade. Digital platform launched to facilitate humanitarian activities in Vietnam Officials and participants make officially launch the "Connecting Millions of Hearts" programme, (Photo: VNA) A new phase of the iNhandao digital platform was officially launched at a ceremony held by the Ministry of Science and Technology in Hanoi on October 1, aiming to facilitate humanitarian activities in Vietnam. The platform was built under the framework of the Governments project on "Developing the digital Vietnamese knowledge system. The system builds humanitarian data in order to provide organisations, individuals and businesses with complete and accurate information about those who need support as well as humanitarian campaigns, ensuring the support comes to the right people in a convenient and transparent manner. It also promotes application development for connecting and coordinating humanitarian work on both web and mobile platforms. Donors can track their sponsorship activities and results on the system easily and in detail. Vietnam enters 33rd day without COVID-19 community infection as of October 5 Vietnam has gone through 33 straight days without a single COVID-19 community infection as no new cases were reported on the morning of October 5. The national count stands still at 1,096, including 691 locally transmitted cases, according to the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control. A total of 1,020 patients were given the all-clear as of the morning of October 5. The total for fatalities remains unchanged at 35. Some 16,360 people who had close contacts with COVID-19 patients or came from pandemic-hit areas are under health monitoring nationwide. Google Doodle honours Vietnams cai luong art Google Doodle honours Vietnams cai luong art Google, the worlds most popular search engine, has honoured Vietnams cai luong (reformed theatre) art by posting a doodle on its homepage on September 28. In an introduction honouring the cai luong art on the observance of Vietnam Stage Day, Google wrote " A blend of traditional and contemporary influences, cai luong combines opera with spoken drama to create a vibrant expression of Vietnamese culture and identity.". According to Google, cai luong evolved from a traditional Vietnamese opera called hat boi in the Mekong Delta of southern Vietnam at the turn of the 20th century. Accompanied by an orchestra containing traditional Vietnamese instruments like the dan tranh (Vietnamese 16-string zither), cai luong brings to life a wide range of stories, from ancient legends of monarchs and warriors to explorations of modern Vietnamese social themes. While the subject material may vary, a common element is the signature melancholic song structure called vong co, which translates to nostalgia for the past. Singapore lifts travel restrictions on visitors from Vietnam Singapore will lift border restrictions for visitors from Vietnam and Australia, excluding Victoria state, from October 8. Short-time visitors from the two countries can apply for flying to Singapore from October 1 and arrive in the Southeast Asian country from September 8. The two countries have successfully controlled the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and the risk of importation is low, said the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), noting that Vietnam had zero local COVID-19 cases over the last 28 days, while Australia (excluding Victoria state) has a local virus incidence rate of 0.02 per 100,000. Singapore citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders returning from Australia (excluding Victoria State) and Vietnamese will similarly undergo COVID-19 testing upon arrival, in lieu of a seven-day stay-home notice with a COVID-19 test administered before the end of the notice period. Forum promotes digital transformation in tourism industry amid COVID-19 Delegates at the event (Photo: NDO/Trang Linh) The Vietnam Tourism Association (VITA) in conjunction with the Vietnam E-Commerce Association (VECOM) on September 30 organised an online forum on digital transformation to promote Vietnam's tourism development in the context of global COVID-19 outbreak. The event was an important solution to help restore and promote the country's tourism development sustainably since digital transformation is an inevitable development trend of tourism and it needs to be accelerated after heavy impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through digital transformation, travel agencies can reach more travellers, provide better care to customers, reduce costs and increase business efficiency. Digital transformation is an inevitable trend which helps businesses improve their competitiveness. Participants in the event were updated on demand, trends and digital transformation capability. In the framework of the forum, a showroom of technological products was arranged for a number of technology businesses to introduce their products. Erik Conover Joins Nest Seekers International "Joining Nest Seekers is a great honor and privilege. Eddie is one of the most hardworking and tenacious people Ive met in the real estate business." - Erik Conover Nest Seekers International, a world-renowned real estate firm with Headquarters in New York and London, and 25 other locations around the globe is announcing today the addition of Erik Conover, the agent with the largest luxury real estate YouTube following in the world, to the brokerage. CEO Eddie Shapiro has long known Erik Conover to be ahead of his time, resourceful, and someone who can deliver content and results in the digital age. The decision to bring Erik into the brokerage was a natural progression and a collision of passion and capabilities. Nest Seekers expertise in the luxury market and worldwide reach collided with Eriks worldwide persona as both an agent and YouTube star with nearly 1.5 million subscribers. Eriks accomplishments and reach speak for themselves. A graduate from Northeastern University with degrees in Public Advocacy and Rhetoric as well as a minor in Business Marketing, hes been able to leverage his knowledge into marketing his own business through an extremely successful YouTube channel that has garnered over 111 million views since inception. His Luxury Listings series has 26 episodes that boast a total of over 64 million views, making each episode average 2.47 million views. Luckily for Nest Seekers, those views translate to deals, as Erik has been a part of hundreds of millions in sales indirectly from his tours. The team is launching specific programs and shows positioned to create massive exposure to Developers and Development projects in New York City, The Hamptons, Miami, Los Angeles, and London as well as High-End properties in those regions and more. Erik spent the past few years building a well targeted loyal audience of buyers and sellers and general real estate lovers. The first two shows are called "ICONS", which will give an inside look at the most luxurious properties in the World and the second "LEGACY" showcasing prominent development projects and the most prolific developers who envision and construct them. We are thrilled to welcome Erik into the Nest Seekers family. He has amassed an incredibly large audience and viewership with his YouTube channel and his Luxury Listings series. Hes really tapped into a new innovative way to market and brand yourself and has created a massive following along the way. His talent in understanding brands, marketing and creating the highest quality of real estate content as well as selling homes will be a huge asset and great addition to the family. said Eddie Shapiro, Founding President and CEO of Nest Seekers International. Erik Conover said that Joining Nest Seekers is a great honor and privilege. Eddie is one of the most hardworking and tenacious people Ive met in the real estate business. His experience, and vision of building and empowering great talent and brands within the firm as well his expansive knowledge of luxury and ultra-luxury markets makes this the greatest opportunity. Im happy to have found my new home in the Nest Seekers family and am even more excited about whats to come. We have so many great plans and we are executing around the clock. Speaking to what is to come for Nest Seekers and Erik, CEO Eddie Shapiro also said, In service to our sellers and developers, we are constantly looking for ways to be innovative with outreach and to expand our broadcasting ability. We most recently did that through our Netflix show, Million Dollar Beach House, and in bringing Erik on, this is only the beginning. There is some much more to come as we reshape the world of real estate media. Nest Seekers International is a game-changing firm in the rapidly expanding global real estate marketplace. The firms hybrid tech & brand enabled model has inspired a new wave of thinking in the industry, and its approach to daring and unconventional marketing has elevated and revolutionized the way people think of real estate. Nest Seekers International continues to expand with 25 offices and more than 1000 team members around the globe. Based in Manhattan, London, Beverly Hills, Brooklyn, Long Island City, The Hamptons, New Jersey, Miami, the Mideast and Asia. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 19:47:14|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close by Ronald Ssekandi MBARARA, Uganda, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- As the world grapples with COVID-19, conservationists in Africa are striving to contain rising wildlife poaching, which has been worsened by the pandemic. When the pandemic hit the continent about seven months ago, many countries closed their borders and limited domestic movement. This brought the tourism sector, a key foreign exchange earner to many economies, to a grinding halt. "The biggest impact of COVID-19 on conservation was the shutdown of the tourism industry," Kaddu Sebunya, chief executive officer of African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), one of the oldest conservation agencies on the continent, told Xinhua in a recent interview. "Over 30 million Africans that benefited directly from the tourism industry lost their livelihood overnight," Kaddu said, noting that national park services lost almost 50 percent of the revenues they use to protect wildlife while private conservancies lost all their revenues due to the shutdown. In Uganda, according to Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), a state-run conservation agency, poaching during the pandemic has gone up. In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to more than half of the world's population of mountain gorillas, poaching cases have risen from about eight suspects arrested in a whole year to eight suspects arrested in just a few months. In June, the country lost a popular silverback gorilla, which was killed by a poacher as he went into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to hunt for duikers and a bush big. Many other parts of Africa, according Kaddu, face a similar situation whereby some who derived their livelihood from tourism have resorted to poaching. "Because of reduction in tourism, people were laid off, patrols in the park reduced. What that means is that the bad guys are waiting to recruit these people into poaching," said Kaddu. "We have seen a surge in poaching, not because these are bad people but because they have lost their livelihood." Countries have put up counter-measures to stop the surge in poaching. In Ugandan national parks, foot-patrols have been increased; Other places have started community initiatives where scouts patrol the parks. "I have just come back from Serengeti (national park in Tanzania)," Kaddu said. "I have seen community scouts still patrolling national parks without pay." The AWF, through its Africa Response Fund to COVID, has also supported patrols, giving food rations and equipment to rangers. While the pandemic has had a negative impact on conservation in terms of falling revenues from tourism, there has also been good news, Kaddu said. "There are some good stories. Wildlife thrived everywhere we work during the COVID pandemic," he said. "The number of wildlife is increasing, and that tells us that when you leave wildlife alone, it thrives." Since July 22, Uganda has registered the birth of eight mountain gorillas, seven in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and another in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, on the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Conservationists are optimistic that as countries continue to ease COVID-19 restrictions and open up their economies, tourism will resume, bringing in revenue that can be used to protect wildlife. Enditem The sacrifices of many Millions of Americans have gone months without seeing some of their closest relatives or their colleagues. They have canceled weddings and graduations. They have said goodbye to dying loved ones by phone. But when many of the nations political leaders gathered at the White House nine days ago to celebrate the Supreme Court nomination of Amy Coney Barrett, they decided the pandemic rules that applied to everybody else didnt apply to them. Some of them assumed, wrongly, that because they had received a fast-response virus test when arriving at the White House, they could not be infectious. Others simply chose not to think about the virus, it seems. Instead, dozens of them sat, unmasked, within inches of one another. They shook hands, hugged and kissed. After starting outdoors, the event moved indoors, where the participants continued to celebrate like it was 2019. There is now reason to believe that the gathering was a superspreader event for the coronavirus. The president and the first lady are sick, as are two senators who attended, a former governor, the president of the University of Notre Dame and multiple White House staff members, journalists and others. WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Nowadays, every online business endeavors to achieve high rankings on search engines. Many firms and organizations are taking the assistance of Best SEO Companies to incorporate strategies and maintain relevance in several search engines, especially Google. One of Google's main factors is session duration that is time spent by the users on a website. A session starts as the user visits any page on the website and ends as they leave the website. Today, it has become one of the biggest challenges for online businesses to improve the session duration. It also plays an important role in helping the website owners analyze website visitors' behavior. 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The Galaxy S21 tipped to offer a major feature from the Note series The Galaxy S21 5G variant, in specific, may support Samsungs stylus. Just to be clear, the device is said not to ship with the S Pen, though. It will support its functionality, but the S Pen wont be included as is on the Galaxy Note series. The Galaxy Note S21 will still launch, though, it seems. The source also notes that the Galaxy Note 21 is still in Samsungs plans. It wouldnt be surprising if the company decides not to proceed with the Galaxy Note 22, or one of the future models. Advertisement The fact that the company plans to offer S Pen support even on the flagship S series could indicate a move in that direction. Do note that the machine translation of the Korea Herald article is a bit all over the place, though. Now, some of you probably remember a rumor that surfaced a while back, indicating that the Galaxy Note 21 may not arrive at all. Well, this is a sequel to that, pretty much, though it claims that the Galaxy Note 21 is very much coming. That initial rumor suggested that Samsung may replace the Galaxy Note series with the Galaxy Z Fold series. The Galaxy Z Fold 3 is expected to offer S Pen support as well. That could make the Note series kind of obsolete. Advertisement If both the Galaxy S series and Galaxy Z Fold series offer S Pen support, the Galaxy Note series could lose its appeal. That S Pen made the Note series special, as its size no longer differentiates it. Its still unclear what will Samsung do from this point on It will be interesting to see what road will Samsung take here. The Galaxy Note series of smartphones is extremely popular for the company. Many people think it would be a bad idea to shelf it. Samsung is selling millions upon millions of Galaxy Note series phones per year, and that probably wont change anytime soon. Foldable phones are the companys huge focus, but theyre still too pricey, and many people are still not interested. Advertisement The Galaxy Note series may go away at some point, but that probably wont be next year, and who knows, maybe it wont happen for years to come. Things are still up in the air. The Galaxy S21 series is expected to arrive in the first quarter of next year. It will probably launch in either February or March, as per usual. The Galaxy Z Flip 2 may not arrive alongside the Galaxy S21 phones, though. Hazleton, PA (18201) Today Cloudy. Snow showers developing in the afternoon. High 27F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 50%.. Tonight Snow showers before midnight. Becoming partly cloudy later. Low 7F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 50%. Snow accumulations less than one inch. D onald Trump has said he is leaving hospital today as he is "feeling really good" after his coronavirus treatment. The US president told his followers "don't be afraid of Covid" as he said he would be checking out of the Walter Reed Medical Center on Monday feeling "better than I did 20 years ago". Mr Trump wrote: "I will be leaving the great Walter Reed Medical Center today at 6.30pm. Feeling really good! "Dont be afraid of Covid. Dont let it dominate your life. We have developed, under the Trump Administration, some really great drugs & knowledge. I feel better than I did 20 years ago!" Mr Trump's physician Dr Sean Conley told a press conference that although the president was not "entirely our of the woods", he had "continued to improve" over the last 24 hours and had "met all discharge criteria". Dr Conley said the medical team agree that all our evaluations and, most importantly, his clinical status support the presidents safe return home, where hell be surrounded by world class medical care. He added that Mr Trump would receive another dose of the anti-viral drug remdesivir at Walter Reed before returning to the White House. Dr Conley said it had been "almost 72 hours" since Mr Trump's last fever and that his oxygen levels were normal. Dr Conley speaks to the media on Monday / AP He said the president could resume his normal schedule once there is no evidence of live virus still present. But he also noted that it was uncharted territory having a patient receive such aggressive medication so early in the course of the disease. Dr Conley repeatedly declined to share results of medical scans of Mr Trumps lungs, saying he was not at liberty to discuss the information because the president did not waive doctor-patient confidentiality on the subject. He also refused to share the date of Mr Trumps most recent negative test for the virus, a critical point for contact tracing and understanding where he is in the course of the disease. Members of Mr Trump's medical team outside the Walter Reed Medical Center / AFP via Getty Images White House officials have said Mr Trump is anxious to be released after three nights at Walter Reed, where doctors revealed on Sunday that his blood oxygen level had dropped suddenly twice in recent days and that they gave him a steroid typically only recommended for the very sick. The virus, which led to Mr Trump's hospital admission on Friday, has killed nearly 210,000 Americans. Mr Trump on Monday also responded to the backlash he faced after he briefly left hospital in a car on Sunday to wave to supporters. Among the critics was Dr James P Phillips, an attending physician at Walter Reed, who branded the stunt "insanity". The president wrote: "It is reported that the Media is upset because I got into a secure vehicle to say thank you to the many fans and supporters who were standing outside of the hospital for many hours, and even days, to pay their respect to their President. If I didnt do it, Media would say RUDE!" His return to the White House comes as officials are still learning of the scale of the apparent outbreak on the complex last week. Press secretary Kayleigh McEnany announced she had tested positive for the virus on Monday morning and was entering quarantine. Ms McEnany spoke briefly with reporters on Sunday evening without wearing a mask, but said that no members of the White House press corps spent enough time around her to be considered close contacts. Joe Bidens campaign said the Democratic presidential nominee again tested negative for coronavirus on Sunday. The results came five days after he spent more than 90 minutes on the debate stage with Mr Trump. Hathras Politics: Congress party held 'Satyagraha' in the states and district headquarters across the country on Monday. An FIR has been filed against Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad for violating section 144. UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath has written to centre recommending a CBI probe into the matter. Taking the battle to next level, Congress Party staged a silent sit-in protest at the state and district level across the country as part of the partys protest demanding justice for the victim and her family in Hathras incident. Meanwhile, an FIR has been registered against Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad who visited Hathras yesterday for violation of section 144 of CrPC and the Epidemic Diseases Act. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has written to centre recommending a CBI probe into the Hathras matter. Uttar Pradesh government is receiving massive backlash since Hathras victim was cremated by cops in the night, nationwide protests are being carried out against Yogi Adityanath led UP government. Earlier, Congress General Secretary (Organisation) and MP KC Venugopal had said that the brutal gangrape and murder of a Dalit girl from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh has shaken the conscience of the nation. As part of the protest, the Pradesh Congress Committees will do Satyagraha at Mahatma Gandhi or Babasaheb Ambedkar statues and any other place of significance, in state and district headquarters against the brutal and arbitrary actions of the UP Government, demanding justice for the victim and her family. Also read: Kheti Bachao Yatra: Wont let them destroy farmers, says Rahul Gandhi Maharashtra: Congress workers stage protest in Mumbai against the alleged gangrape of a woman in #Hathras (Uttar Pradesh). pic.twitter.com/CAUPawwiQl ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2020 Also read: Hathras Politics: Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar meets victims family He said that the brazen inhumanity and illegal high handedness shown by the BJP Government of Uttar Pradesh in denying basic dignity to the victim even in death and afterwards towards the family had left everyone beyond shock. He said that after continued pressure from Congress party, on October 3, when thousands of workers, MPs and senior leaders led by Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi announced to leave for Hathras, the UP administration relented and allowed only 5 leaders to meet the victims family. He added that Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi not only met and heard the familys agony and injustice done to them but also ensured all-out support in carrying out an impartial investigation. He said that they promised to do whatever possible so that no daughter feels insecure and nobody however small, feels helpless. Venugopal said that Congress party has resolved to relentlessly fight against arbitrary and unconstitutional ways of the Yogi Government and ensure justice to the victim and her family. He said that in their continued effort to provide justice to the family of Hathras victim, the Congress party had decided to hold Satyagraha in the states and district headquarters across the country on the morning of Monday, (October 5, 2020). Senior leaders, MPs, MLAs and office bearers, party functionaries and ordinary workers will be participating in the Satyagraha, in full strength. On Saturday, Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi reached Hathras in the evening after the UP administration conveyed that a group of five persons can meet the victims family. Both leaders met the victims family. The 19-year-old Hathras girl died at Delhis Safdarjung hospital on September 29, a fortnight after allegedly being gang-raped. All the four accused in the incident have been arrested. The Uttar Pradesh government has ordered CBI probe into the matter and suspended police officials. The post-mortem report reads that the victim suffered a fracture of C6 cervical vertebra and there was extravasations of blood along the fracture line and the underlying spinal cord was contused with ascending oedema. Also, the postmortem report denies rape charges. Also read: Government to cover 20-25 crore people by July 2021: Harsh Vardhan on Covid-19 vaccine Written by: Holly Baker, American Red Cross delegate in The Bahamas Surrounded by water, not a drop to drink When Hurricane Dorian passed through The Bahamas in September 2019, the islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama received the most significant impacts, with the entire island of Grand Bahama left without clean drinking water after the storm contaminated the islands natural, fresh aquifers and wellfields with salt water. After Dorian passed it was clear that widespread damage was done, and the need for a solution to access clean water was essential. In the same month that Dorian hit, the American Red Cross partnered with Mercy Corps to restore access to drinkable water on the island by funding clean water production through the use of two reverse osmosis machines with capacity to produce 15,000 gallons of water daily. Clean water was then distributed to communities through 20 fill-up spots. Providing a sustainable but temporary solution to local residents to get drinking water also afforded the islands utility company time to work through challenges caused by Dorian to restore fresh water to households. Access points were set up at schools, community centers like the YMCA, healthcare clinics and more to meet the needs of the residents. Families were encouraged to bring their own water containers and fill them up with as much water as needed for free. The water produced in this partnership exceeded health standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Lifting up the island With the onset of the global coronavirus pandemic, additional measures were immediately implemented to protect residents utilizing the water sites and the volunteers overseeing them. Together, the American Red Cross and Mercy Corps have provided nearly 3 million gallons of clean drinking water over the year since Dorian hit. This water was made available to thousands of people and their families allowing them easy, free access to water while they could continue focusing on other parts of their life impacted by Dorian. The Grand Bahama Utility Company has since worked to restore the islands freshwater, so residents can use municipal water and no longer need to rely on the distribution sites. The American Red Cross provided over $2.3 million in funding support to help provide clean water to Grand Bahama as one of the recovery programs. Read more about other initiatives in the Hurricane Dorian 1-Year Report. American Red Cross in the Bahamas The American Red Cross has been helping in The Bahamas since Hurricane Dorian hit in September 2019, providing emergency shelter items, food, clean water and millions of dollars in cash and rental assistance to families. It is because of the generosity of the American people that the Red Cross is able to provide continued support to families. In the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, the Red Cross continues to keep safety the main priority and is adapting our programs and efforts to follow all health guidelines while still delivering our mission. For more information on Hurricane Dorian recovery, visit www.redcross.org/dorian. OTTAWA - Families and loved ones of those killed in the shootdown of a passenger jet over Tehran are urging Canada to impose so-called Magnitsky sanctions that would target those directly responsible. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Debris is seen from an Ukrainian plane which crashed as rescue workers search the scene in Shahedshahr, southwest of the capital Tehran, Iran, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP, Ebrahim Noroozi OTTAWA - Families and loved ones of those killed in the shootdown of a passenger jet over Tehran are urging Canada to impose so-called Magnitsky sanctions that would target those directly responsible. Alise Mills, a spokeswoman for the families, says the sanctions regime, named after Russian whistleblower Sergei Magnitsky, would permit Ottawa to freeze the assets and impose travel restrictions on individual Iranians involved. She said they have been pushing the Liberal government hard for the sanctions in private meetings, but they have met with resistance. Weve come to a point where we dont understand why this prime minister and his cabinet will not throw down the Magnitsky Act," Mills said Monday in an interview. There were 176 people killed when the Iranian military shot down Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 on Jan. 8, shortly after it took off from Tehran. That included 55 Canadian citizens, 30 permanent residents and dozens of others with connections to Canada. Iran initially denied responsibility for the incident but was forced to admit its role after video footage on social media appeared to show at least one missile striking the jet. Under international civil aviation law, the Iranian government leads the investigation and controls the contents of the planes flight recorders. The data was downloaded in Paris in July. But Canada, Britain, Ukraine, Afghanistan and Sweden, the countries that lost citizens when the plane was destroyed, found Iran's disclosure to be lacking. Foreign Affairs Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said he isnt expecting Iran to be any more transparent in an upcoming progress report. The latest that has been provided was not informative at all. So I am suspicious of what may be coming, Champagne said in a recent interview. You can rest assured that we will be ready with the international co-ordination and response group to ask all the questions that will need to be answered by Iran. And I suspect that these questions won't be answered fully or transparently. Champagne has rejected Irans July report, which depicted a chain of events where the shootdown could have been avoided. It said that the Revolutionary Guard's surface-to-air missile battery had been moved and had not been properly reoriented before it targeted the Boeing 737-800. The report said the people controlling the battery could not communicate with their command centre and that they fired twice on a plane that they misidentified without getting approval from their superiors. Hamed Esmaeilion, a Toronto-area dentist whose wife and nine-year-old daughter were killed in the crash, says he does not believe Iran's explanation either. It was not an accident. It was a murder," Esmaeilion said in an interview Monday. "It's not an air crash, or a plane crash. They murdered 176 people, and we should be completely frank. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Esmaeilion, Champagne, Transport Minister Marc Garneau and the government's special envoy to the crisis, ex-cabinet minister Ralph Goodale, took part in a solemn ceremony on Parliament Hill flanked by about two dozen people who had lost loved ones in the shootdown. They observed a moment of silence amid the din of drills and jackhammers that were part of the renovation of the Hill's Centre Block. "I met these people, shortly after the downing of PS752," Champagne said afterwards. "Every time we meet, it reminds me and all of us about the work that we still need to do to provide justice, accountability and transparency." The vigil was one of nine held in cities across North America and Europe to commemorate those killed in the attack, in a renewed effort to press for justice. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-03 11:31:12|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TRIPOLI, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Libya on Friday reported 509 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total confirmed caseload in the country to 35,717, said the National Center for Disease Control. Meanwhile, 440 patients have recovered in the past 24 hours, bringing the country's total recoveries to 20,334, while 11 patients died during the same period, taking the total deaths to 570, the center said. In order to fight the pandemic and prevent infections, the Libyan authorities have taken a series of precautionary measures since the first case was reported in March, including closing the country's borders, shutting down schools and mosques, banning public gatherings and imposing a curfew. China donated medical aid to Libya in June to help the country battle the pandemic, including 834 diagnostic kits, 5,000 medical protective suits, 15,000 N95 face masks, 100,000 surgical masks, 5,000 pairs of goggles and 5,000 pairs of medical gloves. Enditem New Delhi, Oct 5 : Even with consensus eluding a decision on the new formula to pay GST compensation to states, the 42nd meeting of the GST Council on Monday decided to extend the period of compensation cess beyond the five year transition period slated till June 2022 to meet the revenue gap. Originally, the cess was to be levied till June 2022 to compensate the states for the revenue gap that emerged from the transition to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime in 2017. The extension would mean that cess would be collected for few more years to pay compensation dues of states arising between April 2020 and June 2022. The decision, though beneficial for the states, comes as a setback for businesses which will have to pay the cess to compensate the states. Among other major decisions, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that the Centre will release compensation of Rs 20,000 crore (the amount collected from cess so far this fiscal) to states towards loss of revenue during 2020-21 by Monday night and an amount of about Rs 25,000 crore towards IGST of 2017-18 by next week. As a further step towards reducing the compliance burden, particularly on the small taxpayers having aggregate annual turnover of Rs 5 crore, the Council's earlier recommendation of allowing filing of returns on a quarterly basis with monthly payments by such taxpayers will be implemented with effect from January 1, 2021. Such quarterly taxpayers would, for the first two months of the quarter, have an option to pay 35 per cent of the net cash tax liability of the last quarter using an auto generated challan, said an official statement. Further, to encourage domestic launching of satellites particularly by young start-ups, the satellite launch services supplied by ISRO, Antrix Corporation Ltd and NSIL would be exempted from 18 per cent levy. The GST Council also discussed the lowering of the GST on alcohol-based sanitisers from 18 per cent, but no decision was taken on the matter, Sitharaman said. The Council will meet again on October 12 to discuss on the matter of compensation cess. With 10 opposition-ruled states and Union Territories against any move to bring in a new GST compensation formula that would burden them with additional borrowing, the Council decided to meet again to get more inputs from states on the design of GST compensation so that things could get moving. About 21 states, mainly from the ruling party, have given their approval for the first option suggested by the Centre to settle GST compensation in Covid times. Sitharaman said that the Council meeting on Monday reminded her that no one can take anybody for granted and indicated her preference for more talks. The Centre has also agreed to rework the option 1 of GST compensation formula by taking 7 per cent annual growth of revenue instead of 10 per cent decided earlier. This would take up the loss of revenue due to GST implementation up from Rs 97,000 crore under option 1 to Rs 1,10,000 crore. ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Bloomberg Law announced today that its In-House Forum will be held virtually on October 6 and October 7 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. EDT. The event will feature senior in-house counsel discussing best practices for dealing with the new normal during a global health crisis, including successfully advising stakeholders. Attendees are eligible for up to 2 CLE credits. For the full event agenda and registration information, visit http://onb-law.com/d3F950BJBS5. The first day of the forum focuses on how the Covid-19 pandemic is changing business terms and relationships, including contractual challenges across the supply chain. The day kicks off with a keynote interview with Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh, followed by a panel discussion, and ending with a keynote interview with U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Chair Janet Dhillon. The second day focuses on novel labor and employment challenges for keeping workers safe. The agenda includes a panel discussion and keynote interviews with California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, and Uber Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer, and Corporate Secretary Tony West. "Corporate legal departments are grappling with new obstacles when it comes to keeping workers safe, conducting business, and maintaining relationships, all while dealing with the economic ramifications of the pandemic," said Joe Breda, President, Bloomberg Law. "Bloomberg Law's In-House Forum offers attendees clear analysis and the latest information for navigating these issues, all on a virtual platform." Additional featured speakers include: Harvey Anderson , General Counsel, HP , General Counsel, HP Sonja Rajki , Deputy General Counsel, The MetroHealth System , Deputy General Counsel, The MetroHealth System Joe Stegbauer , Senior Vice President and General Counsel, The Proctor & Gamble Company , Senior Vice President and General Counsel, The Proctor & Gamble Company Christina Zabat-Fran , Global Vice President, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary, St. John Knits , Global Vice President, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary, St. John Knits Doug Hass , Associate General Counsel and Assistant Secretary, Kimball Electronics , Associate General Counsel and Assistant Secretary, Ron Peppe , EVP for EH&S, Legal, and Human Resources, Canam Steel Corporation , EVP for EH&S, Legal, and Human Resources, Canam Steel Corporation Sonya Richburg , Counsel, Labor & Employment, Coca-Cola Consolidated Follow the conversation from the Bloomberg Law In-House Forum at #LegalForum. About Bloomberg Law Bloomberg Law helps legal professionals provide world-class counsel with access to actionable legal intelligence in a business context. Bloomberg Law delivers a unique combination of comprehensive primary and secondary source material, real-time news, expert analysis, time-saving practice tools including Practical Guidance, market data, and business intelligence. For more information, visit pro.bloomberglaw.com. SOURCE Bloomberg Law Glasgow University academics today urged students enrolling for a new course about slavery to check their family history for links to the slave trade. The university has teamed up with the Jamaica-based University of the West Indies to deliver the online course, which the organisers say 'will take people on a 350-year journey from West Africa and the Caribbean through to the Windrush Generation and the present day'. They added: 'People who take part in the course will be encouraged to reflect on their own family history and look for the legacies of slavery in their own community.' Lead contributor on the course from Glasgow Dr Peggy Brunache said today: 'The past is not over. The past is still the present.' The course launch comes as Britain embarks on Black History Month, and amid continuing controversy about issues including the renaming of David Hume Tower in Edinburgh over the philosopher's alleged links to slavery. Critics say the University of Edinburgh's decision to rename the tower 40 George Square 'traduces' the reputation of the great Scotsman, who went on to become an outspoken critic of slavery. Glasgow University academics today urged students enrolling for a new course about slavery to check their family history for links to the slave trade Dr Peggy Brunache, director of the Glasgow University's Beniba Centre for Slavery Studies, said 'racial inequality' is 'infused into the very fabric of contemporary society' MailOnline reported today that the Edinburgh International Festival was forced to apologise for the 'lack of diversity' in its August programme after less than 300 campaigners demanded that organisers book more female, disabled and black performers or risk being defunded. Dr Brunache, a history lecturer and director of the Glasgow University's Beniba Centre for Slavery Studies, said that 'racial inequality' and 'anti-black racism' are 'infused into the very fabric of contemporary society'. She added 'these structures of power' continue to 'privilege those who identify as white'. 'While the abolition of the slave trade and racial slavery occurred in the early 19th century, the structures of racial inequality and anti-black racism have never dissipated,' Dr Brunache said. 'Does that mean that every white British citizen is racist? Of course not. 'However, these structures of power remain infused into the very fabric of contemporary society, privileging those who identify as white and especially those with generational wealth. It's as insidiously active in the Commonwealth Caribbean as much as it is in the British metropole.' The university has teamed up with the Jamaica-based University of the West Indies to deliver the online course, which the organisers say 'will take people on a 350-year journey from West Africa and the Caribbean through to the Windrush Generation and the present day' (pictured, course organisers Dr Christine Whyte [left] and Dr Zachary Beier [right]) The four-week free online course, called History of Slavery in the British Caribbean on the leading social learning platform, FutureLearn.com, is now open for registration and will go live on October 12. It will explore the debate in the UK about the treatment of symbols of Britain's colonial past sparked by the Black Lives Matter protests, particularly statues which critics allege glorify British imperialism and the slave trade. Dr Christine Whyte, lecturer in global history based at the University of Glasgow, said: 'The important thing about this course is its emphasis on British involvement in slavery, which was both long-lasting and significant to many aspects of British society and economy, and its focus on the words of the enslaved to describe their own experiences.' Dr Zachary Beier of The University of the West Indies said: 'I thought this was a great opportunity to demonstrate how academic collaboration between the United Kingdom and the Caribbean is an important step in rectifying the history of exploitative and unbalanced relationships between these regions. 'Additionally, this course provided an opportunity to share information about significant historical archaeological research in the Caribbean islands and material culture collections stored at The UWI. 'The UWI plays an important role in ensuring the significant history and cultural resources of the Caribbean are properly considered and accessible to an increasingly interested global community.' "All those who came up with their vile conspiracy & vulture theories should really try to get mentally better soon" Following the AIIMS report confirming Sushant Singh Rajputs death as a suicide, Shiv Sena has taken potshots at actress Kangana Ranaut asking her to get mentally better for coming up with vile conspiracy and vulture theories. Without naming her, the party said those abused Mumbai police and cast aspersions on their credibility should apologize to them unconditionally. After the AIIMS report, shouldnt all those who were gunning for Mumbai Police, abusing them, casting aspersions on their credibility offer them an unconditional apology? All those who came up with their vile conspiracy & vulture theories should really try to get mentally better soon, tweeted Sena leader Priyanka Chaturvedi on Sunday. The AIIMS forensic panel has ruled out a murder claim in the Sushant Singh death case, dismissing the theories of poisoning and strangling. On Saturday too, Senas Rajya Sabha MP had attacked Kangana with a couple of tweets on the Hathras case, in which a 19-year Dalit girl was allegedly gangraped and tortured. The girl died of injuries later. A considerable difference between the brave queen of Zansi and the only queen of Zhansi has been clearly exposed, she had said. The one who was awarded with the Y+ security for criticising Mumbai police day in and day out, who was making controversial statements about Maharashtra and its Chief Minister by becoming a strong voice of women, who was the favourite of media, seems to shut her mouth. There is no tweet seen from her on the Hathras issue, Ms Chaturvedi had tweeted. Shiv Sena and Kangana has been at loggerheads over the Sushant Singh death after her criticism of Mumbai Polices handling of the case. She also referred to Mumbai as Pakistan-occupied Kashmir evoking a sharp response from the Sena leaders. After her spat with Sena leaders, she was provided security from the Centre. The Sena-ruled BMC had demolished the illegal constructions at Kanganas office in Mumbai. As eastern Connecticut experiences its biggest COVID-19 surge of the pandemic, some hospitals there are reinstating visitor restrictions while officials at facilities across the state are monitoring the outbreaks path. On Monday, Lawrence + Memorial Hospital in New London became the latest facility to ban visitors, announcing in a statement it was restricting visitor access except under extenuating circumstances. Rare exceptions to this policy may be made at the discretion of the patients clinical team and we will do our best to accommodate exceptions where possible, but our first priority is to protect the health of our patients, visitors and staff, according to the hospitals statement. According to the hospital, New London County has seen a 267 percent increase in the number of people testing positive with COVID-19 over the past two weeks. As of Monday, there were 143 new cases reported across the county from over the weekend. Lawrence + Memorials announcement came days after Hartford HealthCare announced Backus Hospital in Norwich, Windham Hospital in Windham and Natchaug Hospital in Mansfield, were reinstating visitor restrictions at all inpatient and outpatient locations. The restrictions followed the state Department of Public Health issuing a COVID-19 alert for Norwich. The New London County municipality saw 58 new cases over the weekend. Last Thursday, Norwich recorded 27 new cases the citys highest single-day total. Last week, we noticed a trend of rising positive rates and increasing hospitalization, said Dr. Ajay Kumar, Hartford HealthCares chief medical officer. It made sense for us to include an additional layer of scrutiny. Hartford Health has a total of seven hospitals including St. Vincents Medical Center in Bridgeport and it isnt expected to institute tougher restrictions there any time soon, Kumar said. But he and other officials will continue to monitor cases and hospitalizations to see if more restrictions are warranted. Kumar said most of the hospitals have a limit of one visitor per patient, unless there are extenuating circumstances. He said hospitals do not want to ban visitors unless the COVID numbers drastically rise. We believe strongly that families interaction with patients is vital for their healing, he said. At Nuvance Health system which includes Danbury, Norwalk, New Milford and Sharon hospitals the \policy allows for one visitor per day for up to four hours for most inpatients. The policy is reviewed weekly by leaders from various sectors of the hospital, including nursing, infection control and quality, said Steve Meth, Nuvances chief experience officer. The health, safety, and well-being of all patients, staff, and visitors is paramount and guides our decision-making about how many visitors we allow in our hospitals and facilities, Meth said. We balance this with ensuring we meet the emotional needs of our patients by allowing loved ones at the bedside. The Nuvance hospitals have nine or fewer COVID patients. New Milford Hospital has none. I wouldnt call this yet a surge of any kind, said Dr. John Murphy, president and CEO of Nuvance Health. Were very carefully monitoring it. Stamford Hospital also has refrained from reinstating full visitor restrictions, though visitors are still limited to one per patient per day, between 1 and 5 p.m., said Audrey Wise, Stamfords executive director of marketing and communications. Like other officials, she said the policies are subject to change though there is no specific trigger for changing the rules. While the spike in eastern Connecticut is troubling, its not unexpected, Kumar said. We expected to see some spikes and hot spots happening across Connecticut, he said. (But) were not as panicked as were in March that there would be a surge in patients. Staff writer Julia Perkins contributed to this report. Mayawati Lucknow: BSP supremo Mayawati on Monday advised the Adityanath government to change its "arrogant and dictatorial" attitude. MayawatiThe former UP chief minister also said that BSP delegation spoke to the family members of the Dalit woman killed in Hathras and the report she received after the talks was 'sad'. Advertisement "After the Hathras gang-rape case, the BSP delegation went there on September 28 to meet the victim's family and to know the correct facts. The delegation was called to the police station and were held to talk to them (family members). The report received after the talks was very sad, which forced me to go to the media," Mayawati said in a tweet in Hindi. Mayawati tweet "After this, there was misbehavior with media and lathi-charge on opposition leaders on Saturday and Sunday. This is shameful and condemnable. The government should change its arrogant and dictatorial attitude otherwise it will weaken the roots of democracy," she added. Advertisement Samajwadi Party workers were on Friday lathi-charged by the police in Hazratganj area here while they were taking out a protest march against the Hathras case and farm laws. By Express News Service LUCKNOW: While politicians continued to throng Hathras, Aam Admi Party MP Sanjay Singh came under ink attack on Monday while returning from Boolgarhi village after meeting the family of the gangrape and murder victim. Sanjay Singh, who was leading the delegation of his party members, was allegedly attacked by a youth named Deepak Sharma amid the slogan -- Brokers of PFI go back. The district police had to use mild force to chase away the protestors and escort the MP. The AAP leaders who accompanied Sanjay Singh included Delhi government Cabinet minister Rajendra Pal Gautam, MLAs Rakhi Bidlan, Rohit Malhauria, Pawan Sharma, and Harpal Singh Cheema. While Sanjay Singh was talking to the media persons, someone from the crowd threw black ink on him and Rakhi Bidlan. Deepak Sharma, who was allegedly behind the ink attack is believed to be a member of Rashtriya Swabhiman Dal. READ| UP police book Bhim Army chief, 500 others after Hathras visit Earlier, the AAP delegation met the victims family and assured them all help in securing justice. They also provided the family grocery and vegetables. While interacting with reporters, the AAP MP said that that UP government was trying to digress from the issue. We demand justice for the victims family while ensuring security to them. Expressing anguish over the restrictions on the visit of political delegations, the AAP MP accused the state government of trying to protect the perpetrators of the crime. He said that the dying declaration given by the victim should be deemed as the sole evidence to nail the accused. He said that CBI had not yet taken over the probe and that the UP governments announcement of CBI probe was nothing bust an eyewash. On the allegations of a plot to incite riots in the state, Sanjay Singh said that it was the character of the BJP to instigate people for conflicts on caste lines. Meanwhile, one of the kin of Dr. BR Ambedkar, Raj Ratan also met the victims family and assured them of getting the Hathras DM booked for mishandling the case. YOKNEAM ILIT, Israel, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- PixCell Medical, innovator of rapid diagnostic solutions at the point-of-care, announced today that it has received regulatory approval from the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for the HemoScreen, PixCell's hematology analyzer that offers a 5-part differential CBC intended for point-of-care (POC) use. Under the TGA approval, PixCell's HemoScreen is cleared for use with adults and infants alike, from as early as 2 months of age. The HemoScreen provides insights on 20 CBC parameters as well as comprehensive abnormal cell flagging, which can assist in the early detection of diseases, including several types of cancer. This approval confirms inclusion of HemoScreen in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), authorizing commercialization throughout Australia. "We are delighted to receive TGA approval and are already in the process of making HemoScreen available to patients in Australia," said PixCell Medical CEO Dr. Avishay Bransky. "Almost 30% of Australians live in rural areas making access to many healthcare services difficult. To take a simple blood test, one may have to travel hours to the nearest city or have blood samples flown out to a lab, causing significant delays in receiving results. This technology makes the most common complete blood count (CBC) test accessible locally when results are needed quickly," Bransky explained. The HemoScreen is designed to be simple for users. It requires no maintenance or calibration and does not require technical expertise to operate. The whole CBC testing process entails three steps from sample collection to results delivery, and eliminates the manual sample preparation procedure, which can generally compromise test results. A single drop of blood is collected in PixCell's "lab-on-a-cartridge," which is outfitted with all necessary reagents; the cartridge is inserted into the HemoScreen and within 6 minutes, the device provides lab-accurate results. Having blood test results on the spot allows clinicians to make decisions based on accurate data when they are in front of their patients, improving care delivery and clinical decision making. A highlight of PixCell's technology is its patented Viscoelastic Focusing (VEF) technology causes cells to line up in a single cell plane. This phenomenon forms the basis of PixCell's AI-driven solution, which leveraging advanced computer vision technology, can rapidly analyze and differentiate cells within a sample. The portable hematology analyzer is suitable for both human and veterinary care settings. In June, North Rocks-based Point of Care Diagnostics (POCD) announced it would make PixCell's small-sized, simple-to-operate HemoScreen platform available to Australian healthcare providers across the country. In addition, several government organizations in Australia have evaluated the instrument and ordered units for rapid deployment as part of their COVID-19 efforts to monitor patients. About PixCell Medical PixCell Medical provides the first truly portable point-of-care blood diagnostic solution. Leveraging the company's patented Viscoelastic Focusing technology, along with AI-powered machine vision, PixCell's FDA-approved and CE-cleared HemoScreen diagnostic platform shortens diagnostic results delivery from days to minutes. With just one drop of blood and within five minutes, PixCell delivers accurate readings of 20 standard blood count parameters, saving patients, clinicians and health systems significant time and costs. For more information: www.pixcell-medical.com and follow PixCell on LinkedIn. Media Contact: Finn Partners for PixCell Medical Lior Feigin lior.feigin@finnpartners.com @LiorFeigin HALIFAX - A lobster boat belonging to a Mikmaq fisher has been destroyed by a suspicious fire at a wharf in southwestern Nova Scotia, near waters where a self-regulated Indigenous fishery is underway. RCMP Sgt. Andrew Joyce says police are investigating after a fire was reported by a wharf employee just before 6 a.m. Monday. The police spokesman said the lobster boat had been tied to the wharf at Comeauville, N.S., for over six weeks awaiting a mechanical repair and suffered significant damage from the blaze. Robert Syliboy, a member of the Sipeknekatik First Nation, confirmed in a telephone interview the 11-metre vessel belongs to him and was federally licensed to participate in the commercial fishery beginning next month. He is among the 10 Mikmaq lobster harvesters who participated in the launch last month of a self-regulated fishery outside of the federally regulated season on St. Marys Bay. He was using a different boat out of Saulnierville, N.S., for that fishery, which allows boats to set a maximum of 50 traps each. The fishery is based on the landmark 1999 Supreme Court ruling that found Donald Marshall Jr., a Mikmaq man, had a treaty right to fish for eels when and where he wanted, without a licence. The Marshall decision also said the First Nations in Eastern Canada could fish to earn a moderate livelihood, though the court followed up with a clarification two months later saying the treaty right was subject to federal regulation. Syliboy wrote on his Facebook page that he will find a way to rebuild his livelihood. My dad always taught me, its not about how many times you get knocked down, its about how fast you get back up, he wrote. Im not going anywhere. Ill stand tall for my nation. This is part of the uphill battle. He said the boat that was burned is the one he operated under a communal commercial licence a class of license negotiated with First Nations after the Marshall decision that requires Indigenous harvesters to operate under federal rules for conservation, gear-marking and reporting of catch. The tensions on St. Marys Bay were high in the first weeks of the Mikmaq moderate livelihood fishery, as non-Indigenous harvester cut lines and hauled 350 Mikmaq traps out of the water. It had appeared the situation had calmed before Mondays incident. Colin Sproul, president of the Bay of Fundy Inshore Fishermens Association, said his organization does not condone violence. We condemn any and all violence in the fishery, and we call for calm and peace and dialogue, he said. Chris dEntremont, the federal Conservative MP for West Nova, said on Friday that non-Indigenous fishers are looking for transparency regarding decisions made about the Mikmaq First Nation fishery, and there is growing frustration. I know theres been conversations on the Indigenous side, but at this point theres really very little discussion on the non-Indigenous side, dEntremont said in an interview. He said the federal government has mismanaged talks and created a divide between the two groups, adding that since the Liberals came into government in 2015, non-Indigenous fishers have had a reduced presence in negotiations. Non-Indigenous fishers are concerned about the financial impact of increased competition from Indigenous fishers, dEntremont said, adding that current tensions could set relations back years. When the government talks about reconciliation, thats going to put reconciliation in our area off by probably another generation right now, because theres going to be that mistrust of both sides of this story, and I think its the fault of the government, he said. A federal Fisheries Department spokesperson said department officials and Fisheries Minister Bernadette Jordan have been in regular contact with industry leaders and representatives of Mikmaq communities. The spokesperson declined to confirm how many meetings the department has had with the two groups but said talks are ongoing. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. - - - This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship. Read more about: NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- SPAC Research, the leading provider of data and research on Special Purpose Acquisition Companies, today released the first ever league tables for both deSPAC financial advisors and deSPAC legal advisors. The tables are dynamically updated and can be filtered by year and by deal status. Investment banks Goldman Sachs, Deutsche Bank, and Morgan Stanley lead deSPAC advisor activity so far in 2020, each with over $30bn in advisory engagements including live deals. Among Law Firms, Kirkland & Ellis leads with 14 active and closed advisory engagements this year, but Weil, Gotshal & Manges has advised on a greater total dollar volume of transactions. SPAC Research is managed by CEO Benjamin Kwasnick along with partners Richard Humphrey and Rajiv Shukla to provide thought leadership and comprehensive coverage of news and data related to US-listed SPACs. It has grown to a prominent position in the SPAC industry with a diverse client base that includes the majority of SPAC book-runners from 2020 as well as funds with over $10bn in SPAC assets under management. "We are pleased to offer this service in response to frequent requests about deSPAC advisory leadership in addition to our existing slate of dynamically updated league tables for SPAC transactions," said Benjamin Kwasnick, co-founder of SPAC Research. Contact SPAC Research Benjamin Kwasnick Founder & CEO [email protected] SOURCE Constellation Alpha Holdings HARRISBURG, Pa. - Republican U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey of Pennsylvania, a fiercely anti-tax and anti-regulation lawmaker who never entirely warmed to President Donald Trump, will not seek re-election in 2022, according to a person with direct knowledge of Toomeys plans. But the biggest surprise is that, Toomey, 58, will not run for governor in 2022, when the seat becomes open, said the person, who did not want to be named divulging information from private conversations before Toomey announces it publicly. Toomey, who is serving his second term in the presidential battleground state, will make the announcement Monday, the person said. His office scheduled an announcement for 10 a.m. in Bethlehem, near Toomeys home in suburban Allentown. A spokesperson at Toomeys Senate office declined comment Sunday when asked whether the senator will announce that he is not running again. The Philadelphia Inquirer first reported Toomeys plans. The timing of Toomeys announcement in the middle of the presidential election and his reasons for not running again were a mystery Sunday, even to many Republican insiders. Toomey is a stalwart proponent of free markets and smaller government who was staunchly supported in the past by the billionaire industrialists Charles and David Koch and the Club for Growth, the take-no-prisoners free-markets advocacy group Toomey used to head. But Toomey had often expressed frustration with how the Senate operates and had never promised to run for a third term. As Pennsylvanias only statewide elected Republican official, outside of the courts, he had been widely considered the shoo-in nominee if he decided to run for governor in 2022, when Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf is term-limited. Toomey had long expressed an interest in running for governor. Now, Republicans in Pennsylvania will be tasked with finding nominees for both seats in a state where Democrats have a registration advantage. I think he would have been the strong favourite, among party people to run for governor, said Christopher Nicholas, a veteran Republican campaign strategist in Pennsylvania. The talk was more about who was going to be the nominee to succeed him in the Senate. The governors thing was sort of a foregone conclusion if Toomey wants it. Of course you go with him, someone who has has name ID, money in the bank, a proven track record. All those things. While Toomey walked the Republican walk on cutting taxes and spending, outlawing abortion and advocating for public school alternatives, he also crossed lines that some Republicans havent dared to cross. For instance, he sponsored legislation to expand background checks on guns, a measure that could not get out of the Senate, even when packaged with provisions that gun rights groups had long sought. In 2016s election, he ran TV ads showing a 3-year-old video of then-President Barack Obama praising Toomey for sponsoring the legislation. Toomey, a Harvard-educated policy wonk and former investment banker, is rarely seen with Trump when the president visits the battleground state, and Toomey refused to say who he would vote for in 2016s presidential election until he voted, an hour before polls closed. He has never been an eager defender of Trumps personality or foreign policy, and he has been absent on the campaign trail for Trump. He also occasionally has been the target of an angry Trump tweet, including one in January calling him a RINO Republican in name only after Toomey criticized Trumps commutation of the sentence of Roger Stone. To become Pennsylvanias most-senior Republican office-holder, Toomey had to go from party maverick to party stalwart. A three-term congressman from the Allentown area in 2004, Toomey went against the party to take on then-U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter in the 2004 Republican primary. He lost, and left office under a self-imposed term limit. But he returned in 2010, when Specter had lost favour with the party over his critical vote to secure Senate backing for then-President Barack Obamas recession rescue package. Toomey has never won easily. In 2010, he won by 2 percentage points and, in 2016, he won by slightly less than that in what was then the most expensive race in U.S. Senate history. Democrats have often accused Toomey of fighting for Wall Street and the wealthy, and the Democratic Party on Sunday said Toomey is bowing out because of lousy approval ratings. Pat Toomey has spent his entire term working for special interests, trying to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, and giving handouts to the ultra-wealthy, Brendan Welch, a Pennsylvania Democratic Party spokesperson, said in a statement. By not seeking re-election, Pat Toomey has finally done something that benefits his constituents. ___ Follow Marc Levy on Twitter at www.twitter.com/timelywriter. I enjoyed this show. Stay mad Frenchies. Reply Thread Link The whole idea of interviewing French people for their opinions on a show about an American girl living out her fantasy of being a ~unique flower in Paris is silly. It's not for the French. Reply Parent Thread Link I'd love to watch it but sadly I don't have Netflix anymore. Does anyone have a link with English subtitles? Reply Parent Thread Link Right, LMAO, I'm Canadian so I have some Quebecois frenchness in my brain, but some of the sterotypes were.... true hahaha I love the show for what it is. It was like a vacation for my brain Reply Parent Thread Link Im guessing Quebecois are worse than actual French people. Reply Parent Thread Link Saw the trailer. Felt a little try hard so I passed it Reply Thread Link https://www.nbcnews.com/think/opinion/netflix-s-emily-paris-ill-timed-love-letter-american-exceptionalism-ncna1241875 NBCNews.com was shitting on it for being released during a pandemic when nobody can travel. Reply Thread Link Lmao omg. Next they'll complain about sci-fi. "If I can't fuck off earth and go to moon why would I want to watch an actor in a movie go to the moon?? It's so unfair!!" Reply Parent Thread Link So what, we're supposed to watch Host and idk, Panic Room in a loop? Reply Parent Thread Link That's a bizarre take, given how much of entertainment revolves around escapism. Reply Parent Thread Link lmao what half of the reason why i watch anything is if has nice views lol Reply Parent Thread Link I thought the exact same when I watched this trailer. I don't even like the French but that was bad. Reply Thread Link Idk I'm tired of this portrayal of france only bc it completely erases POC and how rich the culture can be there as soon as you move away from white people Reply Thread Link Yes, the only POC on the show where side characters that supported Emily. Mindy and Julien were a lot more interesting. Reply Parent Thread Link Mindy seemed more supporting to main character as we knew more about her life and she had storylines separate to Emily Reply Parent Thread Link I wouldnt call Mindy a side character since had her own storyline, more than Camille. Reply Parent Thread Link thats what black french twitter been saying lol. at least they were spot on about how pompous white french folk are. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Same. I watched a few episodes, it was fun and dumb but it was jarring how white the whole thing was, yes there were POC characters but that felt like a Netflix requirement rather than something that was a part of the original story. I felt the same way about Uncorked too, it was a story about Black American man coming to Paris to become a sommelier but there was nothing about race/racism in France, the closest thing you got was that one scene of b-roll filmed in a Black Parisian neighbourhood. Reply Parent Thread Link Yeah I tried to watch a couple of eps this weekend, but I just couldn't get into it and this one of the reasons. We shouldn't still have to complain about how jarring white a show like this from a service that champions diversity when it sees fit for them. The almost satirical "look how pompous and snobbish white French folks are" falls flat when you still don't have POC in the show Reply Parent Thread Link which seems dumb as fuck to do bc nowadays Paris is so multicultural; the guy clearly didn't evolve past SAC Reply Parent Thread Link I'm Black, and while I enjoyed the show for what it is, I absolutley agree with this. Paris is hella diverse too Reply Parent Thread Link I liked it, it definitely has some issues, like the ones mentioned. It was nice to detach this weekend and daydream. But it was so messed up how Emily would expect everyone to cater to her or American ways and yet people did. lol Reply Thread Link That is what I found the most ridiculous/funny about this whole thing. Parisian people are vicious about this sort of thing, this girl would never survive there irl (source: my bff that lived in Paris for years aka my friend with a bike) Reply Parent Thread Link I mean I knew all that from the trailer alone but it's an American TV show about an American girl in Paris so IDK what they expected. Reply Thread Link Havent watched more than the first two episodes so far, but yeah I definitely didnt feel like the French characters were portrayed as ~all bad~ like the article suggests. I thought the show seemed pretty sympathetic to their POV actually when they were pointing out to Emily that work isnt everything there the way that it is in US culture, or that no actually the customer isnt always automatically right. And it was certainly pointed out plenty that people had a right to be annoyed that Emily had come over to work in their country without being able to speak any French Reply Parent Thread Link anyone annoyed by this should watch Call My Agent but also pretty sure this show was designed to pretty much do that, lol. it's a silly little popcorn show. also my french friends are very stereotypic lmao i this weekend i got to hear about about the OUTRAGEOUS cost of a baguette ($3) for such "low, american quality baking." Reply Thread Link tbf i think 3$ is too much for a baguette no matter the quality o_O Reply Parent Thread Link IKR? I think any European would find this price outrageous. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link We do love our baguette Reply Parent Thread Link A good baguette is pretty life changing tho Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Baguettes in France (at least the standard 'Baguette Tradition') are pretty strictly regulated. Baguettes Traditions have to be made on-premises and can only contain 4 ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast. Pricing used to be government-imposed. It's not anymore, but typical prices would be between 0.80 - 1.20 Euros. The French are serious about their bread; it's not just a stereotype - and it absolutely shows in the quality compared to other countries. It's kind of comparable to the 'Reinheitsgebot' the Germans have for beer. I don't live in France myself, but I live close to the border and regularly go there to buy bread. So yeah. I know it might seem OTT but $3 for a baguette with all kinds of additives and lacking the crunch of a 'pain tradition' would definitely be outrageous to the average French person. Reply Parent Thread Link If you're in Carlsbad, CA, Prager Bros. has damn good baguettes and croissants at typically American prices. Is it an American thing when "cheap = a bunch of extra crap added to it so that it ships well and doesn't rot/get stale)" and "expensive = the simple way it's always been done that lasts a couple of days?" I fucking hate this country. Reply Parent Thread Link But the French are sexist lol Reply Thread Link so are americans Reply Parent Thread Link so is the rest of the world Reply Parent Thread Link Adele Haenel has a few things to say about the way the French and French showbusiness views women Reply Parent Thread Link The backlash against this show in general is sexist imo. It's a dumb, silly, escapist little show for young women. Don't watch if you're not in the demo, but it's never a surprise when publications immediately run to laugh at anything aimed at women. Reply Parent Thread Link I watched two episodes on Saturday and I immediately thought the French were gonna be really offended with the vapid portrayal. It's dumb fun tho, I'll finish it some other day to see if stuff improves. Reply Thread Link Every time i read something about france i think of derry girls' sister michael saying: "Sadly, I'm unable to come on this trip as I despise the French." Reply Thread Link I wish we'd get a third season of derry girls Reply Parent Thread Link Considering Derry is currently the worse hit place in NI for Covid, that won't be happening for a while. Really not a good thing considering NI is now doing the worst in the whole of the UK. We went from best to worst, real quick. Edited at 2020-10-05 08:10 pm (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Link They were supposed to start filming this summer I think. Reply Parent Thread Link The superior Netflix show, lmao. Reply Parent Thread Link I binged it yesterday night and it was okay. It was definitely full of cliches and I hated how Emily was forcing the American way onto everyone, right from day 1. Edited at 2020-10-05 06:23 pm (UTC) Reply Thread Link I haven't seen it but just looking at the trailer/teasers, it's clear they were not going to show the real Paris, just the one dreamt by foreign tourists - and that's why japanese feel deepy depressed once they've discovered the real Paris.Of course we love our baguette, cafe and such, but Paris is much richer than what they seem to depict. Anyway.. Reply Thread Link i'm not watching this show because the romanticization of paris needs to end but lol at "[In Emily in Paris] we learn that the French are "all bad" " lemme stan a bit Reply Thread Link Colombo, Oct 5 : Sri Lanka has reported the first community Covid-19 case after a gap of two months, prompting authorities to impose a curfew in few areas, re-impose health guidelines and close schools across the island-nation, it was reported on Monday. Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi said the infected person was a 39-year-old apparel factory worker from Divulapitiya town in Gampaha district, reports the Daily Financial Times newspaper. The case was identified on Sunday through random testing of samples from main hospitals. The patient's 16-year-old daughter has also tested positive. "We were able to identify this patient because all main hospitals have been advised to collect 10 samples for PCR tests everyday. So all main hospitals will collect at least 10 samples of patients displaying symptoms," the Minister said in a statement. "The individual's sample was tested at three other places before we determined that she had the virus," she added. According to Chief Epidemiologist Sudath Samaraweera, the individual experienced symptoms of fever, following which she visited a healthcare centre in the area on September 28. She was admitted to the Gampaha Hospital two days later, where her sample was sent for PCR testing. When her test came back positive, she was transferred to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (NIID) for further treatment. "The next step in such a situation is to identify her contacts," the Daily Financial Times quoted Samaraweera as saying. All contacts will be required to quarantine and subjected to PCR tests, he added. Following the development, a curfew has been imposed indefinitely in the Divulapitiya, Minuwangoda and Veyangoda areas. DGI Ajith Rohana said that curfew violators could face fines and imprisonment, adding that essential services will operate in these areas. All Sri Lanka Army, Navy, Air Force, and Civil Security Department officers, as well as from Sri Lanka Ports Authority, in the Minuwangoda and Divulapitiya areas have been asked not to report for duty until informed. While all schools across the island nation were ordered to close until further notice, safety guidelines were re-imposed by the Health Ministry to control the spread of Covid-19. Sri Lanka has so far reported 3,402 Covid-19 cases and 13 deaths. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Tata Motors-owned Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) on Monday reported 11.9 per cent dip in sales in the second quarter this fiscal to 1,13,569 units as compared to the same period previous year. The company's sales, however, improved by 50 per cent during the July-September quarter as against 74,067 units in April-June period of the current fiscal, JLR said in a statement. Sales in were particularly encouraging during the period under review, up 14.6 per cent over the previous quarter and 3.7 per cent on a year-on-year basis, it added. Retail sales in other regions, including the UK, Europe, North America and other markets, also significantly improved from the prior quarter, JLR said. However, sales in these regions have not yet recovered to the levels a year ago, it added. "COVID-19 and second lockdowns continue to impact the global auto industry, but we are pleased to see sales recovering across our markets. In China, the first region to come out of lockdown, our performance has been particularly encouraging," JLR Chief Commercial Officer Felix Brautigam said. The recovery has been demand-led and the company has been able to reduce stocks to achieve ideal levels in most markets, despite the ongoing pandemic, to support a healthier and more profitable business, he added. Almost all of its retailers worldwide are now open or partially open and the plants have resumed production with robust protocol and guidelines in place, the automaker said. The vehicle manufacturing plants at Solihull (UK), Halewood (UK) and Nitra (Slovakia), as well as the Engine Manufacturing Centre (UK), have now increased to a two-shift pattern to meet increasing demand, it added. (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.) Ola failed to renew licence to operate its ride sharing services in London after not meeting public safety requirements stipulated by London transportation regulator Transport for London (TfL). Ola specifically failed to meet requirements for licensing related to drivers and vehicles and plans to appeal TfLs decision, Tech Crunch reported. This comes just days after competitor Uber regained its licence to ply in London for another year-and-a-half (18 months). TfL said Ola had over 1,000 trips made by unlicensed drivers. The company has 21 days to appeal the decision and can continue operations in the meantime. According to Sky News, Helen Chapman, TfLs director of licensing, regulation and charging said the regulator discovered multiple failures around Olas use of unlicensed drivers and vehicles, which may have put passenger safety at risk. Ola said the issue arose due to use of different conventions in its databases, which it is working to fix on priority. At Ola, our core principle is to work closely, collaboratively and transparently with regulators such as TfL. We have been working with TfL during the review period and have sought to provide assurances and address the issues raised in an open and transparent manner. Ola will take the opportunity to appeal this decision and in doing so, our riders and drivers can rest assured that we will continue to operate as normal, providing safe and reliable mobility for London." Marc Rozendal, Managing Director of Ola UK said. Ola began commercial services in London in February 2020 with over 25,000 drivers. It has not yet revealed other metrics, such as trips completed or passengers served. The COVID-19 pandemic in particular has hit the business hard. New Delhi, Oct 5 : In a sign of economic activity gradually picking pace in the unlock phase, steel companies have increased the price of the metal for the fourth month in a row in October on the back of demand revival and firm price trends in the overseas market. Benchmark hot rolled coils (HRC) prices have increased by Rs 1,000-2,000 per tonne for October deliveries to Rs 43,000-43,500 per tonne whereas (cold rolled coil) CRC prices stand at Rs 52,000 per tonne. The price rise in October is contrary to expectations of a decline in prices in China, where flat steel prices have dropped by four per cent in September 2020. The price has also increased for long steel products used in real estate projects, but the price rise there is moderate compared to the HRC prices and long products are still priced about Rs 1,500 per tonne lower than flat products. With the price rise in October, HRC prices are now higher than pre covid price line of Rs 42,000 per tonne. On a cumulative basis, steel mills have hiked HRC steel prices by Rs 7,000-7,500/tonne since July, 2020. The improved demand outlook is driven by a strong recovery in automotive, consumer durables and other white goods. "We believe this hike underscores the current strength of domestic demand for flat products (led by recovery in auto and white goods) and tight market supply," said a sectoral analysis done by brokerage Motilal Oswal Institutional Equities. "... demand in flat rolled steel is also driven by replenishing of inventories by end-users amidst tight supply of HRC, even as inventories remain low in the system. Further, export commitments of domestic steel mills for October 2020 delivery are further likely to keep the supply situation tight in India," the brokerage said. While domestic conditions have pushed up steel prices in the country, pressure points remain by way of falling steel prices in the biggest producing and consuming nation China. There steel prices have declined by $ 25/tonne in both domestic and export markets during September 2020. Domestic HRC prices, which stood at parity to landed cost of imports from South Korea ($ 555/tonne CNF India) are now trading at a five per cent premium post this hike (to $585/tonne). China export prices have declined to $503/tonne ($ 528/tonne CNF India). The price trend in China, post the national holidays (which will be over in a week), would determine the direction for regional and domestic steel prices. If prices in China do not improve post the holidays, the Indian prices could be at risk as a 10 per cent premium to Chinese prices would be unsustainable for long. This is because imports would rise substantially, the brokerage report said. But the good run is expected to continue for long steel products. There is an expectation of recovery in long steel prices with demand recovering post monsoon. The recovery in long steel product prices has remained subdued compared to flat rolled steel as rebar prices are still at Rs 1,500/tonne lower YTD FY21 (while HRC is higher by Rs 5,000/tonne). The BJP on Monday cried foul over the murder of its councillor in West Bengal and questioned if there was any democracy in the eastern state. "I want to ask Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee - is this the democracy in Bengal? She and her representatives visit different states to talk about injustices; so, I want to ask her -- when will you visit the family of Manish Shukla?" party spokesperson Sambit Patra tweeted. "The death of BJP councillor Manish Shukla is shocking. He was murdered in front of Titagarh police station by people with covered faces. He was very close to BJP MP from Barrackpore, Arjun Singh," added Patra. Shukla was shot dead on Sunday by unidentified assailants in North 24 Parganas' Titagarh area. While the BJP leader blamed the TMC, the ruling party leaders claimed it was a fallout of infighting within the BJP. Meanwhile, Patra also raised the murder of Shakti Singh Malik in Bihar and questioned the Rashtriya Janata Dal while allegedly quoting the victims wife's that a prominent RJD leader was "demanding money" from her husband before he was killed. A popular Sydney beach has been closed down after thousands of people flocked to the water on the scorching Labour Day public holiday. North Cronulla beach was shut off to new visitors on Monday afternoon because the capacity under current COVID-19 restrictions had been reached. Similar threats were made at Bondi and Coogee beaches in Sydney's east, were tens of thousands of people lined the sand as the mercury soared to 31C. Lifesavers at Coogee warned beachgoers of the needed to keep 1.5 metres between them and others, both in the water and on the sand. The massive crowds led to NSW Police patrolling the beaches in the early afternoon. Some of Sydney's most famous beaches could be closed on Monday afternoon after tens of thousands of people flocked to the water, ignoring COVID-19 restrictions There was hardly any room to sunbake at Bondi Beach, with large crowds making the most of the 31C weather on the Labour Day public holiday Electronic signs at the beach warned visitors that the allowed capacity was close to being reached Police talk to beachgoers on the grass at Bondi on Monday afternoon, where vistors were told to 'swim and go' Despite ten straight days of no community COVID-19 transmission in NSW, threats of beach restrictions remain. 'If people continue to come to Bondi Beach and crowds grow further, restricted access to the sand is likely to be implemented within the next hour 2-3pm,' Waverley Council said in a statement. 'If you haven't left for the beach yet, please rethink your trip and check on capacity later in the day.' Randwick City Council, which controls Coogee and Maroubra Beaches, advised keen swimmers to make other plans. 'Many of our beaches are approaching capacity, so please make alternate plans if you're heading to our coastline,' the council tweeted on Monday. 'If you're already in the area, enjoy the warm weather at our beachside parks and reserves, or support local businesses by visiting stores in our town centres.' One cheeky youngster was eager to have a real life look at the inside of a police car near Bondi Beach Despite ten straight days of no community COVID-19 transmission in NSW, threats of beach closures remain Swimmers were encouraged to 'swim and go' at most beaches, a throwback to the messages that were commonplace at the beginning of the pandemic Sun's up, fun's up! Bondi Beach heats up as crowds descend on the famous beach during New South Wales' public holiday Monday Ahead of the warm weather, NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the state could not afford to let its guard down Ahead of the warm weather, NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the state could not afford to let its guard down. 'Until theres a vaccine and a treatment, we need to treat everybody as if they potentially have this virus,' he told Sunrise. 'Complacency could turn this thing upside down very quickly.' The massive influx of people to Bondi and Coogee beaches is being affected by the partial closure of Bronte Beach, which is located in between. A sewage overflow issue saw the south end of the beach closed, while the Murray Rose Pools were also shut. Sydney Water found the contamination at Bronte's Bogey Hole, a natural rock pool which forms a sheltered swimming area for young children. There was hardly room to move on Coogee Beach as thousands flocked to the water on the 31C public holiday Bronte Beach on Saturday. People were in the water meters away from the natural rock pool called the Bogey Hole, popular with small children, closed due to sewage contamination Surfers walk past the rolling waves on Monday as the mercury rose to 31C. Health officials have also raised concerns about the low testing numbers for the virus in NSW - with just 4,789 tests being carried out over the last 24-hour reporting period Security and representatives from Sydney Water were seen ushering people out the water, after a public toilet blockage left the water too dangerous to swim in. Sydney Water said the Redleaf Beach contamination was caused by a blocked toilet. The large gatherings in Sydney come just days after similar scenes in Victoria, home to the strictest COVID-19 restrictions in Australia. Despite warnings of fines, large groups gathered on Friday raising concerns that the reckless behaviour could trigger another outbreak. Premier Daniel Andrews warned he could be forced to extend the 5km travel bubble for metropolitan Melbourne if residents continue to hit the beach. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews warned he could be forced to extend the 5km travel bubble for metropolitan Melbourne if residents continue to hit the beach. Pictured: Locals at St Kilda on Saturday Two people pose for a selfie while enjoying the sun at St Kilda Beach on Friday Police patrol St Kilda Beach during the coronavirus pandemic in Melbourne on Saturday 'I can't put a timeline on it but those rules serve a really important purpose and they'll be in place for as long as that purpose is relevant and proportionate the benefit is relevant and proportionate to the challenge we face,' he said. 'There will be a time when that (5km rule) can come off, but exactly when that is or it might be extended when that is we can't be certain now.' Victoria recorded nine new COVID-19 cases and zero deaths on Monday. A youth group believed to be members of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Sissala West District of the Upper West Region has petitioned President Akufo-Addo to rescind his decision to revoke the appointment of Mohammed Zakaria Bakor, the District Chief Executive (DCE) for the area. Mr. Bakor's appointment was terminated in a letter signed by the Local Government Minister, Hajia Alima Mahama on 29th September 2020. At a press conference held at Bullu, the youth group calling itself Sissala West Concerned Youth of NPP opined that the decision has the potential of dwindling the fortunes of the NPP in the area as it is against the general interest of NPP party faithful in the Sissala West Constituency. One of the leaders of the group, Hudu Mua, reading the petition signed by some 52 persons, explained that as a youth group that is solely committed and loyal to this great party NPP, we cannot sit unconcerned to let this sad eventuality take place. We have worked so hard as a party to have reached this unprecedented milestone in the district. Therefore, we have a duty to jealously protect the supreme interest of our party and not allow this political vendetta to foster. Even though no reasons were given for the dismissal of the DCE, the group alleged that it was masterminded by the Upper West Regional Minister and some bigwigs of the NPP in the Sissala West district due to his inability to attend a durbar organized to welcome the Vice President to the district last month. Hudu Mua disclosed that the DCE was taken ill and admitted at a health facility in Wa at the time the Vice President visited the area. The group has therefore called on the President to reinstate Mr. Mohammed Zakaria Bakor to avoid disunity within the rank and file of the NPP in the Sissala West constituency. It is our asserted and sustained view that this revocation, if not reversed immediately, will plunge our dear party into avoidable defeat going into the 2020 elections. The group further cautioned the NPP's parliamentary candidate for the Sissala West constituency, Salifu Naluwie to desist from any divisive tendency, as that can derail the fortunes of the NPP in the constituency. Background A letter dated September 29, 2020, and signed by the Minister of Local Government and Rural, Hajia Alima Mahama, revealed that the dismissal of the DCE for Sissala West, Zacharia Mohammed Bakor by President Nana Akufo-Addo. The letter urged the dismissed DCE to hand over to the Regional Minister. It remains unclear why he was sacked. ---citinewsroom O Panneerselvam, Deputy chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and Coordinator of the ruling AIADMK, on Monday (October 5) posted a cryptic tweet sparking political speculations in the state. My decisions thus far have been taken considering the welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu and the AIADMK cadre and they will continue to be so henceforth read the tweet. Quoting from the Bhagwad Gita, the tweet also said, Whatever happened in the past happened well, what is happening, is happening well, what is set to happen is also to take place well. It is notable that this tweet comes too days ahead of October 7th, when the party is expected to announce its Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2021 Assembly elections. Over the last few months, there have been tussles within the AIADMK over the Chief Ministerial candidate, with different factions coming out in support of either Chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswami or Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam, hailing them as the future CM candidate. In certain cases, posters in support of OPS were put up in some parts of the state and in other cases Ministers and party functionaries came out in support and made announcements to the media regarding who would be the likely CM candidate. Besides the statements and posters, it has become evident that there is a power struggle underway in the ruling party, between the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister. In the last week of September, Deputy Chief Minister Panneerselvam was conspicuous in his absence at a monthly review meeting that the Chief minister holds with senior government officials and advisors to chart the course in the fight against Covid-19. The party is trying to amicably solve the issue by cooling tempers and coming to an understanding ahead of the all important 2021 Assembly elections - the first Assembly poll that the AIADMK would be facing without its supremo J Jayalalithaa. Although parliamentary elections are fought on a different set of issue, it must be recalled that the AIADMK received a drubbing at the 2019 Lok Sabha Polls. Contesting in the NDA alliance, AIADMK secured only a single Parliamentary seat out of 40 constituencies in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry. Live TV At a recent AIADMK Executive Committee meeting, held at their headquarters in Chennai, the contentious issue regarding announcement of the Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2021 assembly elections had come up. This led to supporters of Palaniswami and Panneerselvam camps indulging in a war of words over the way ahead. Panneerselvams demand has been to set up a steering committee to guide the party, in line with an earlier agreement, however, Palaniswami had not agreed to this demand. Panneerselvam had not taken up this issue for many years, however it is returning to the fore. After the party's Executive Committee meeting, speaking to the media, Deputy Coordinator K.P. Munusamy said that the party's Chief Ministerial candidate would be announced on October 7 by Panneerselvam and Palaniswami. Commenting on the latest tweet by Panneeerselvam, senior journalist and political analyst Dr. Sumanth C Raman said it was hard to interpret. It could mean he is starting a new rebellion or can also mean that he is pulling back in the interests of the party he told WION. LANSING, MI Congressional leaders should advance legislation that would force the U.S. Department of Defense to comply with state laws regulating toxic forever chemicals, urged attorneys general in Michigan and 17 other states. In an Oct. 5 letter to lawmakers, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel pushed for legislation that would, among other things, force the military to adhere to new state standards for PFAS contamination during pollution cleanups. The language is included in the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was passed by the Democrat-controlled House in July. The bill, which contains hundreds of military budget and policy provisions, must be combined with a Senate version in a conference committee thats sending a final version to the White House this year. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Holly, authored the provision, which activists in Michigan have characterized as the most important PFAS legislation pending in Congress. Michigan has struggled to get the U.S. Air Force to commit to cleaning up PFAS pollution to tougher state-required levels at the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda. Congress has the authority to further protect our citizens from these forever chemicals, and our leaders in Washington need to hold the Department of Defenses feet to the fire to prevent contamination of our water by PFAS, Nessel said. The letter was sent to House and Senate armed services committee chairs and ranking members. It follows a similar push from Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who wrote Air Force leaders in September to urge compliance with state rules passed in July that substantially lower cleanup thresholds for two compounds in groundwater. In Michigan, compliance with new rules would entail cleaning up the individual compound PFOA in groundwater to 8 parts-per-trillion (ppt) and the compound PFOS to 16-ppt. The new standards are lower than a federal advisory level the military is using as a site remediation threshold around the country. The Air Force has thus far only committed to evaluating whether to comply with Michigans lower PFAS standards at future steps in a long remediation process. Slotkins press staff said the annual NDAA conference hasnt yet begun, but that the congresswoman, who formerly worked as an intelligence official in the Pentagon, has been working to keep the PFAS language included in the final version. Slotkin and 70 House members sent a similar letter in September to armed service committee leaders urging inclusion of numerous PFAS-related provisions in the 2021 NDAA; including, among other things, an expansion of blood-testing for service members, an increase in funding for health study and remediation efforts, prompt publication of environmental testing results and a prohibition on purchase of non-essential goods made with PFAS. Slotkin has applied to be on the conference committee. The roster has yet to be announced. Last month, Politco reported that Republican leaders werent planning to iron out differences in the bill versions until after the election. Attorney General Nessels support for those provisions shows how important they would be for addressing PFAS contamination in our state, said Hannah Lindrow, communications director for Rep. Slotkin, who is up for reelection next month to a second term. The attorneys general letter also pushed for the designation of several PFAS compounds as hazardous substances, which would give the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency the authority to order cleanups under federal Superfund law. The hazardous designation was spiked from NDAA negotiations last year after Republicans objected to potential liability it might create for municipal wastewater operations. Attempts to attach it to the current bill failed this summer. Democrat state attorneys general for Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin signed Nessels letter. Attorneys general for Guam and the District of Columbia also signed. Related Stories: Slotkin provision would arm states for PFAS battle Whitmer pushes Air Force to clean up PFAS at state levels Slotkin pushes solutions, decency in reelection bid With trepidation, Michigan settles Wurtsmith dispute Michigan veterans face uphill battle proving toxic exposure Nessel PFAS lawsuit against 3M, DuPont advances Michigan PFAS site list surges past 100 Nicola Sturgeon today called Margaret Ferrier 'Margaret Covid' for a second time as pressure grows on the SNP MP to quit after doing an 800-mile round trip to Parliament while suffering coronavirus symptoms. The Scottish First Minister blundered at a press conference on Friday as she discussed when she first knew Ms Ferrier had flouted coronavirus restrictions. She said at the time: 'The first I knew about Margaret Covid, er, Margaret Ferrier having Covid was yesterday afternoon. I think people can imagine my reaction to hearing that.' However, Ms Sturgeon made exactly the same gaffe at today's press conference, stating: 'Patrick Grady and the SNP didn't know last Monday or Tuesday that Margaret Covid had suspected or then confirmed Covid.' Twitter accounts instantly mocked the Scottish First Minister's embarrassing slip of the tongue, with one saying: 'Margaret Covid. OMG this is so funny. I think this name will stick'. Another posted: 'Nicola Sturgeon's called Margaret Ferrier 'Margaret Covid' AGAIN! Maybe we all should, at least until she (Ms Ferrier) resigns'. Nicola Sturgeon (left) called Margaret Ferrier (right) 'Margaret Covid' for a second time as pressure grows on the SNP MP to quit after travelling while suffering coronavirus symptoms Twitter accounts instantly mocked the Scottish First Minister's embarrassing slip of the tongue, with one saying: 'Margaret Covid. OMG this is so funny. I think this name will stick' 'Look, I can't feel sorry for her,' another commented. 'She screwed up and she deserves to be known as Margaret Covid at least until she resigns'. Ms Ferrier, the Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP, has yet to resign from the Commons despite being stripped of the SNP whip and Ms Sturgeon publicly calling for her to go. Scotland Yard confirmed it was looking into Ms Ferrier's admission that she travelled 400 miles from Glasgow to London while awaiting the results of a test, and then took the train back after being told it was positive. Ms Ferrier could face a 4,000 fine for a first-time offence of 'recklessly' coming into contact with others when she should have been self-isolating under a law that came into force on the day of her positive test. The Scottish First Minister is now under pressure to sign up to a recall petition that could force Ms Ferrier out of her 82,000 a year job, Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross said yesterday that he is 'surprised, amazed and shocked' that Ms Ferrier has not yet resigned. He told Sky News' Sophy Ridge On Sunday her actions were 'irresponsible and dangerous'. Meanwhile, Scottish Labour leader Richard Leonard has said Ms Sturgeon must support a recall petition to remove Ms Ferrier, which could be triggered if she is suspended from the Commons for two weeks. Under parliamentary rules, the MP would face a by-election if at least 10 per cent of her 81,000 constituents signed. Ms Ferrier travelled by train to London from Scotland last Monday while awaiting the results of a Covid test taken on Saturday, and then travelled back the following day after being told the test was positive. Images on her Twitter page showed her in several public places likely to have been busy on a Saturday, including the Vanilla Salon and South Lanarkshire Eastfield Lifestyle leisure centre in Rutherglen, and Sweet P gift shop in Burnside. Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle lashed out at her astonishing actions as she faced calls from her own party leader to quit the Commons. Ms Sturgeon used a series of expletives and said her 'head was in her hands' on being told that her 'friend and colleague' had broken the law, sources told the Times. Images on Ms Ferrier's Twitter page showed her in several public places likely to have been busy on a Saturday, including the Vanilla Salon and South Lanarkshire Eastfield Lifestyle leisure centre in Rutherglen (pictured with the MP centre) However, Ms Ferrier is resisting calls to quit and may seek to stay in the Commons as an independent, having referred herself to the parliamentary standards watchdog. The SNP has insisted it was unaware Ms Ferrier had taken a Covid-19 test on Saturday before travelling to Westminster to take part in a debate on coronavirus in the House of Commons on Monday. By Ms Ferrier's own account, she was informed the test was positive that evening. The Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP said she was screened after experiencing 'mild symptoms', meaning she should have self-isolated. In a statement, she admitted she travelled home to Glasgow on Tuesday, where she has been self-isolating ever since. She apologised for her actions and said there was 'no excuse'. The Metropolitan Police has confirmed it is investigating the journeys along with British Transport Police over potential breaches of the Health Protection Regulations 2020. The Walking Dead has been running for nearly 10 years now, and its spinoff, Fear the Walking Dead, has been on for another five, so one might think this zombie-infested world has been pretty thoroughly explored by this point. Yet here we have The Walking Dead: World Beyond, a limited series event that promises to view the Walking Dead universe through the eyes of teenagers that have come of age in the zombie apocalypse. Its a solid enough premise on paper, but unfortunately, Brave, the World Beyond pilot, introduces a troupe of typical stock characters and sets them off to traipse through the abandoned towns and zombie-filled forests that viewers have seen many, many times before in this franchise. Our main characters are sisters Iris (Aliyah Royale) and Hope (Alexa Mansour), residents of the Nebraska Campus Colony, a thriving community that has an alliance with the Civic Republic Military, a shadowy organization that has conscripted the girls brilliant father to assist them at their secret headquarters. The sisters are basic cliches Iris is the eager-to-please type A, while Hope is the rebellious one who brews her own moonshine and doesnt trust Elizabeth (Julia Ormond) the visiting CRM representative sent to assuage the colonys fears. Walking Dead die-hards will immediately recognize the CRM as the group that took Rick Grimes and also popped up in the last season of Fear, so their motives would obviously be suspect to the audience even if their members werent all black-clad stormtroopers. This drains Iriss episode-long revelation that the CRM are up to no good of any drama, but at least theyre a formidable-enough antagonist. If World Beyond has any possibly of future intrigue, its in exploring this group thats shaping up to be the Walking Dead universes equivalent to Marvels Thanos. Unfortunately, the focus is on the kids, and so far theres not a lot of meat on that bone. Iris and Jane decide they need to find their father, so they set off beyond the walls. Theyre joined by Elton (Nicolas Cantu), a Little Lord Fauntleroy type, and Silas (Hal Cumpston), a hulking sad-sack with a mysterious past. These two join the gals quest on the thinnest of pretenses and only have about 10 lines between them this episode, so its tough to get a bead on them yet. Also in pursuit are Felix (Nico Tortorella), and Huck (Annet Mahendru), two colony security officers who feel responsible for the girls safety. These two get a bit more screen time, but Felix feels like little more than a straight-laced stick in the mud, while Huck is positioned as a cool badass who has to deliver cringe-worthy dialogue like, And thats my blow line. Its not an easy task for a pilot to establish so many characters in a single hour, but Brave barely even tries. Story continues Iris and Jane get the most focus, but once Iris gets on board with Janes anti-CRM sentiment, theres not a lot of daylight between them. Theyre each haunted by the death of their mother, who was killed early in the apocalypse (the subsequent 10 years of living in a zombie wasteland seems to have not affected them one iota). Iris blames herself for not being present, having been separated from Jane and their mother in the chaos, and Jane has the much heavier burden of having witnessed their mother get murdered by a desperate pregnant woman, who Jane then accidentally killed in response. But thats not all! In the episodes most groan-inducing moment, the audience learns that said pregnant woman was actually Eltons mother, an absolute howler of a contrivance that promises plenty of eyeroll-worthy drama down the line. But thats the big problem with World Beyond. Its drama feels contrived and manufactured, less born of characters bouncing off of each other and more we gotta fill time on this new spinoff. Nothing about it is essential, or even that interesting. Diehards might enjoy it, simply because it promises to deliver exactly the same stuff theyve been watching for the last 10 years. Everyone else can safely give it a pass. The Remains The colony is an interesting setting as far as Walking Dead goes, considering how idyllic it is. Its a shame its immediately abandoned (and everyone in it is subsequently killed by Elizabeth). The zombie-proof gate on everyones doors is a nice touch. We need to talk about the accent Annet Mahendru is using for Huck. Its so ridiculous it actually comes back around to being charming. Believing that four kids with no zombie experience can make an 1,100-mile trip is a big ask. How are they going on eat? What happens when the meet up with the inevitable Walking Dead human villain? The whole thing screams suicide mission. Might want to sharpen that triceratops horn before trying to kill a zombie with it, Iris. Seriously, how hard did you laugh at the revelation about Eltons mom? Because I laughed very hard. Grade: C- The Walking Dead: World Beyond premiered Sunday, October 4 on AMC. More from IndieWire Best of IndieWire Sign up for Indiewire's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Mr Alexander Nketia, Volta Regional Director of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), has said the tourism potential of the Volta Region has not been adequately exposed to the travel and leisure market. He said the Region was at the bottom of destination preferences despite attractive tourism sites and hospitality facilities. Mr Nketia raised the concerns during a webinar organised by the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), and (GTA) on the theme: Rebranding the Tourism Sector in the Volta Through Local participation. The Director said visitor numbers fell from 55,000 in 2018 to about 3,000 just before the COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020. He said besides the poor road network, limited investment, and poor service delivery, the Authority had identified the lack of a rigorous marketing and promotion strategy as a major factor hindering the development of the sector. Mr Nketia said collaboration was sealed with non-profit organisations, including the Development Institute, towards the creation of a tourism strategy for the Region. He said a 'regional tourism destination management team' that would work with stakeholders, including the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), and the private sector to document sites for promotion was established. Mr Nketia said the Regions social media and online presence was being enhanced and appealed to stakeholders to work together for accelerated development of the hospitality sector. We want to put the Region on the face of the world so that we can get people coming here and Volta would be on the minds of people. Currently the presence of the Region is limited. At the moment we are not on the main triangular grid the old regular grid the Accra- Cape Coast- Takoradi- Kumasi. We are not part of it so if we dont put in the extra effort, there is no way anybody is going to see us and would want to come here, he said. Mr Nketia said the tourism industry in the Region had unique strengths, which included the abundant nature tourism potentials, culture, and heritage attractions, and also its gastronomy, and added that it was important that host communities maintained them to attract visitors. He also touted the Region as a potential destination for agro, and urban tourism, and said the tourism Authority would work to deepen the nightlife in Ho and other cities. Mr Kwame Sowu, the Board Chairman of the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board, said a tourism strategic plan was key to identifying, positioning, and marketing the tourism potentials of the region to investors. He said stakeholders including the AGI, RCC and the House of Chiefs must work together to produce a strategic plan that is tenable both within and outside the Region. Mr Sowu called for a push for local tourism experience and said tourism items unique to the Region ought to be properly packaged. He also said facilities and services needed to be standardised, and mentioned significant progress being made in upgrading the nations historic attractions and hospitality services. Madam Fafa Motte, CEO of Memory 360 Tours, said bad roads and difficulty in accessing sites discouraged clients even from the Region to visit. She noted that information on most sites was poor, while support services were also not readily available. She called for an attitudinal change towards tourism in the Region, saying, we need education on the need to go outdoors and create memories. The CEO also advocated a sustained media campaign, and competitive pricing, saying tourism clubs in schools could help instil outdoor instincts in the upcoming generation. Mr Anthony Bells Kafui Kanyi, Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA), said the Regions tourism growth curve was promising and advised stakeholders to consider mass tourism and promotional packages to attract more clients. Volta has a brand in tourism but the brand is weak, he said. Mr Kanyi appealed to local authorities to uphold sanitation education in tourism enclaves to make them attractive and added that the GJA was identifying and promoting sites year-round. Source: GNA 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 United Nations has chosen VR Educations Engage platform to deliver a major event. The Engage platform, which hosts virtual events, virtual training and remote distance learning, will be used to facilitate the UN's annual 'Global Youth Takeover' event on October 24. Attendees at the event will be able to watch presentations or shows and walk around different areas to talk to people, using the Waterford-based company's technology. VR Education develops virtual reality (VR) training and education products that make it easier to collaborate on tasks remotely, create content and learn. Demand for remote working and remote learning tools has exploded during the Covid-19 lockdowns. Engage has been used by a growing number of global companies and organisations for virtual training and events, many of which have originated through the group's partnership with HTC, including the European Commission, Ericsson, Facebook, McKinsey & Company, the United States Air Force, and Yahoo, according to a statement from the company. David Whelan, CEO of VR Education, said: The UN event will enhance the profile of the group as the use of the Engage platform grows strongly month on month. The company designed Engage primarily as a communications tool for education and training, however, Mr Whelan said they have quickly adapted it to address the needs of a variety of industries and event organisers as they look to generate revenue in this lockdown world. By Larry Wieseneck Co-President, Cowen and Company, LLC 1986, 1998, 2001, 2008, 2020. The last four decades have been defined by major market events that were game changers for the global economy: the beginning of the savings and loan crisis, the dot-com bubble burst, the global financial crisis, and now the Covid-19 pandemic. With each stress they faced, the companies that moved decisively to evaluate their balance sheets and preserve and/or raise capital emerged even stronger, while those that did not often had to be restructured or liquidated. Since I started in the banking industry at Salomon Brothers in 1992, I have adhered to the concept that balance sheet management and financings are strategic. In other words, the decisions companies and their boards make relative to their capital structure and financial risk can be just as critical as those relative to business mix. In less volatile periods, financing choices may not seem particularly strategic, giving rise to thinking such as: If debt is abundant and cheap, why not continuously keep adding leverage? Is it really worth adding a world-renowned equity investor to the cap table if the investor requires a discounted entry price? Why should a private company ever go public since capital has become so abundant in the private markets? Why should we pay a premium to term out debt? Isnt it cheaper to fund the balance sheet on the short end? In good times, such questions, and many others, are often considered mundane and decided in a tactical manner. However, when the economy weakens considerably, as it has during the pandemic, everything changes. All else being constant, access to cash and the disposition of the companys lenders and shareholders will define the trajectory of an enterprise during and after a crisis. Since the onset of Covid-19, the discussions we have with clients display a proper sense of urgency and risk management: Will the banks work with us and provide forbearance? What happens if a significant portion of our lenders are alternative asset managers rather than banks? Can we negotiate a deal with direct lenders to refinance our near-term debt maturities? Will our VC provide us with more capital, even in a down round? Story continues If our stock is down 25% from its highs, should we do an equity deal? Will that be viewed by the market as strength or weakness? (Although the S&P 500 has rebounded significantly since the onset of the crisis, the majority of public company shares are in negative territory for the year.) Is there a negative impact if we draw on our revolvers and/or eliminate our dividend and take other cashflow management steps? Our strategy relies on continued funding until the company is cashflow generating but the market has become more discerningwhat are our alternatives? As a private company, should we consider selling to a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) as an alternative to an IPO? Will this get us to market sooner and avoid timing risk? These questions have nothing to do with business mix and certainly are not about traditional M&A. Instead, they are about sources of capitalthe most strategic issue facing so many companies today. For example, many technology and tech-enabled companies are benefiting from new consumer and corporate behaviors that increase their prospects and, in turn, their value. Yet they, too face challenges such as how best to take advantage of the changed landscape. Many are accelerating fundraising by months if not years. Those that were planning IPOs over the next several years are selling to SPACs to take advantage of rules permitting company-derived forward projections and other flexibility. As an advisor to companies and their boards for more than 100 years, Cowen embraces its mission to advise and connect users and sources of capital to help them outperform. We are in the solutions business, recognizing that no two situations are the same. Unlike a pure M&A boutique, Cowen is structured to provide truly independent advice across an array of alternativesespecially important during a crisis such as the global pandemic. Through our strength and leadership in equity and credit markets, we deliver unique insights and the best possible advice to companies, private equity firms, venture capitalists, and family offices about capitalization and financingin addition to our world-class M&A advice. At Cowen, we are constantly striving to expand our position as a leading middle market investment bank by adding resources that can help us deliver truly product agnostic solutions to clients. This was a driving force in our decision to acquire MHT Partners, L.P., based in Dallas and San Francisco. The combination of MHT, our Quarton acquisition in early 2019, and strategic hiring we have made over the last few years strengthens our position as the advisor of choice to middle market and growth companies. At Cowen, we listen to clients as we help them navigate the very choppy waters of the most volatile market in over a decade. We are humbled by the momentum we have with clients as demonstrated by our results to date. Whatever the future holds, Cowen will be here to advise and guide clients, based on our hard-earned experience of the pastand our expertise in the ever-changing markets of the present and future. IPO Edge Contact: John Jannarone, Editor-in-Chief editor@IPO-Edge.com www.IPO-Edge.com Editor@IPO-Edge.com Twitter: @IPOEdge Priority Software Ltd., a global provider of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, received a growth investment from TA Associates. TA joined existing investor Fortissimo Capital as an institutional investor in the company. Stefan Dandl, a Senior Vice President at TA Associates, joined the Priority Software Board of Directors along with Naveen Wadhera, a Managing Director and Co-head of the EMEA Technology Group at TA Associates. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Founded in 1986 and led by Andres Richter, CEO, Priority Software provides end-to-end cloud-based (SaaS) and on-premise business management solutions for organizations of all sizes to improve business efficiency and the customer experience. The Priority PRO product provides comprehensive ERP software for medium to large organizations encompassing demand planning, manufacturing operations, financial management, human capital management, procurement and supply chain management. The company also provides business management software for smaller companies that focuses on financial management, reporting and accounting. The company has more than 10,000 customers and over 300,000 end users across multiple end markets, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare and pharma, services, and retail and wholesale. Priority Software has more than 200 employees located across five offices in Israel, the U.S., the UK and Belgium. FinSMEs 05/10/2020 BJP and JDU have not announced the seat-sharing agreement for the Bihar Assembly polls yet. BJP's Bihar election in-charge Devendra Fadnavis and other party leaders including State Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi and Union Minister Nityanand Rai. BJPs Bihar election in-charge Devendra Fadnavis and other party leaders including State Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi and Union Minister Nityanand Rai on Saturday held a meeting with Janata Dal (United) leaders here. BJP and JDU have not announced the seat-sharing agreement for the Bihar Assembly polls yet. On October 2, Fadnavis attended a meeting of top BJP at Union Home Minister Amit Shahs residence in New Delhi over the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) alliances situation for Bihar Assembly polls. Bihar assembly elections will be held in three phases October 28, November 3, and 7 and the counting of votes will take place on November 10. Also read: Rahul, Priyanka meet Hathras victims family, Rahul assures support to family Also read: Tejashwi Yadav to lead grand alliance for Bihar polls, gets 144 seats Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday announced nine candidates for biennial legislative council elections in Bihar and Karnataka. The party fielded NK Yadav from Kosi graduates constituency and named Suresh Rai, Narendra Singh and Chandrama Singh as its candidates for four teachers constituencies, according to a release by BJP general secretary Arun Singh. Chidanand M Gowda, SV Sankanur, Shashil G Namoshi and Puttanna are its candidates for four graduates and teachers constituencies in Karnataka. On September 26, the Election Commission of India had announced the dates for the biennial election to the Bihar Legislative Council from four graduates and four teachers constituencies. The voting will take place on October 22 and the counting of votes will be done on November 12. In Karnataka, the polling will take place on October 28 while the votes will be counted on November 2. Also read: US President Donald Trump says, will be back soon, next few days will be real test A couple who attacked their 17-year-old son after he went to see his girlfriend when he was grounded have been spared jail after she became pregnant with his child. Craig Carroll, 41, and his wife Denise, 39, had a violent showdown with their son Joshua after realising he had ignored them and gone to see Tania Finn. They stormed round to her home in Middleton, Greater Manchester, and demanded Joshua leave. When he refused Mrs Carroll pushed her son before her husband threw punches at him, causing the youngster to momentarily lose consciousness. Craig Carroll, 41, and his wife Denise, 39, had a violent showdown with their son Joshua after realising he had ignored them and gone to see Tania Finn The attack happened while the couple's teenage daughter and children from Tania's family looked on. Joshua, now 18, initially gave a statement to police about the attack but later retracted it and is now living back home with his parents. The Carrolls believed Joshua was being 'manipulated' by his girlfriend and subjected her family to a campaign of intimidation to try and get them to break up. Tania, who lives with her mother, Donna, moved away from the area because of the intimidation she suffered. She later broke up with Joshua but has since announced she is expecting his baby. It is not known when the child was conceived. At Minshull Street Crown Court, Manchester the Carrolls, from Heywood, near Rochdale faced jail over the attack on April 15 last year but were freed after Joshua issued a plea not to have his 'family ripped apart.' Prosecutor Hayley Bennett said: 'Joshua had been grounded and was not supposed to be out of the house but he went round to see his girlfriend. 'Joshua said in his original interview he lost consciousness briefly for two minutes but was very very brief. He was punched several times to the face. 'However he now talks about how since this incident he has come to reconcile with his family and after some time living with his grandmother he now lives back together with his parents.' They stormed round to her home in Middleton, Greater Manchester, and demanded Joshua (pictured) leave The prosecutor explained how Tania and her mother were forced to move home due to threats from the Carroll family, who also pelted their house with planks of wood. Initial charges against the couple of attempted burglary with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm were dropped at an earlier hearing. In mitigation for Mrs Carroll, defence lawyer Huw Edwards said: 'Matters have been resolved between her and Joshua and he is actually here today in support of them and sits at the back of court. As of May Joshua has been living back at the family home. 'Matters have been resolved between the parties and there are no longer issues between the family and any members. 'Tania is due to have a child today or very soon. It's a very difficult situation. Joshua is not living with her anymore and is living back with his parents but between them at least matters have been resolved.' Judge Angela Nield said: 'What does concern me is that Tania is expecting a baby. It's better if both families can speak to each other because of the imminent arrival of a baby.' Mrs Carroll, a part time cleaner, admitted affray was ordered to complete a 12 month community order, 20, rehabilitation requirement days and 150 hours unpaid work. Her husband pleaded guilty to affray and assault occasioning actual bodily harm and was sentenced to six months jail suspended for 18 months. He was also ordered to complete 150 hours unpaid work and 30 rehabilitation requirement day. Joshua (far right) later withdrew his police statement and is now living back with his parents. Craig is seen on the left and Denise on the right next to Joshua, outside Manchester Crown Court Sentencing, Judge Nield said: 'Your son had a measure of vulnerability and you both believed he was being exploited. 'Rightly or wrongly that belief appears to have been strongly felt and to a measure confirmed through Joshua and his more recently expressed views. 'However, understandable might have been the background to what happened, it was wholly unacceptable behaviour and certainly from your point of view Mr Carroll it's set against a background of boiling frustration which led to the behaviour in a manner that has brought you both before these courts. 'It is ironic that your anger Mr Carroll was directed towards the very individual you sought to protect.' BARRINGTON, N.J., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Edmund Optics, the premier provider of optical and imaging components, announced today the appointment of Marisa Edmund as vice chair to the board of directors. In Marisa's new role, she will take on greater responsibility in expanding Edmund Optics' global footprint, capabilities and product offerings. As a third-generation owner, Marisa will continue to work closely with Robert Edmund, chair of the board of directors. Edmund Optics announces the appointment of Marisa Edmund as vice chair to the board of directors. "Marisa has been involved in almost every aspect of the organization, directly contributing to the remarkable success of the business over recent decades," said Robert Edmund. "Customers, employees and shareholders can have great confidence in Marisa's leadership and experience to help guide Edmund Optics into the future." Marisa has over 23 years of experience in the photonics industry as a global leader in direct marketing, sales, organizational development, and strategic planning. Marisa obtained her BSBA from Georgetown University School of Business, receiving top honors, and then pursued her Master's in Business Studies at Stockton University. She is also a Senior Member of SPIE, the International Society for Optics and Photonics. "Growing up in the company and industry, I have great passion in what we do," said Marisa Edmund. "I look forward to working even closer with the board to drive greater innovation over the next few years and beyond." About EO: Edmund Optics (EO) is a leading global supplier of optics, imaging, and photonics technology that has served a variety of markets including Life Sciences, Biomedical, Industrial Inspection, Semiconductor, R&D, and Defense since 1942. EO designs and manufactures a wide array of optical components, multi-element lenses, imaging systems, and optomechanical equipment, while supporting OEM applications with volume production of stock and custom products. With locations in more than nine countries across the globe, EO employs just under 1,000 employees and continues to expand. Customers can purchase items by calling 1-800-363-1992, via the catalog, or on the website at www.edmundoptics.com. Media Contact: Scott Bass Phone: 1-800-363-1992 Email: [email protected] Related Images marisa-edmund.jpg Marisa Edmund Edmund Optics announces the appointment of Marisa Edmund as vice chair to the board of directors. Related Links Edmund Optics Edmund Optics Announces the Appointment of Marisa Edmund as Vice Chair to Board of Directors SOURCE Edmund Optics Ivana Trump enjoyed an alfresco lunch with friends in New York City on Sunday, after admitting that she is 'stressed' and 'afraid' over her ex-husband Donald Trump's COVID-19 hospitalization. The 71-year-old Czech-born businesswoman was bundled up in a black and white snakeskin print jacket and matching ballet flats as she stepped out of her Upper East Side townhouse and headed to Altesi, an Italian restaurant in her neighborhood. Ivana looked somber as she walked by herself, but she had a bright smile on her face when she sat down and started chatting with her lunch companions, an unknown man and woman. Out and about: Ivana Trump, 71, enjoyed an alfresco lunch with friends in New York City on Sunday afternoon Catching up: Ivana and her two pals ate at Altesi, an Italian restaurant in her Upper East Side neighborhood The socialite was dressed for fall in her funky jacket, which she wore over a black top and matching black dress pants. She had a black scarf tied around her neck, but she also donned a long necklace and dangly earrings for the outing. Her platinum blonde hair was pulled back in her signature beehive with her bangs framing her perfectly made-up face. She sported thick black liner around her eyes and rosy-pink lipstick, her preferred beauty look in recent years. Ivana topped off the look with her beloved Lady Dior mini bag, which she carried in her right hand as she strolled to the restaurant. She was not, however, wearing a protective face mask when she went to meet her friends for lunch. The threesome was seen drinking Pellegrino as their masked server waited on them outside the eatery. Dressed to impress: Czech-born businesswoman was bundled up in a black and white snakeskin print jacket, matching ballet flats, and a black scarf Just one day before the outing, Ivana opened up about her concerns regarding President Trump's COVID-19 diagnosis and subsequent hospitalization. Ivana and President Trump, 74, share three children Donald Trump Jr., Ivanka Trump, and Eric Trump whom she has been keeping in touch with for updates on her ex's health. 'Its a very difficult time,' she said. 'Its a stress.' President Trump was taken to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Friday, just hours after he announced that he and First Lady Melania Trump tested positive for coronavirus. Earlier this month, he admitted that he downplayed the threat of the deadly coronavirus pandemic in order not to cause a 'panic.' More than 210,000 people in the U.S. have died from COVID-19, while 7.3 million have been infected. Timing: The day before, Ivana said she was 'stressed' and 'afraid' over President Donald Trump's COVID-19 hospitalization. She did, however, blame her ex, saying: 'He was careless' Opinion: Ivana met Trump at a modeling event in New York City in 1976, and they married in April 1977. They are pictured in 1989. They divorced a year later in 1990 Ivana told People that her ex-husband's diagnosis came as a 'shock' because he's 'the cleanest, healthiest person.' 'Not healthiest with food, but very healthy otherwise always washes his hands and always is careful,' she explained. 'His only weakness is food. He likes the Big Mac its his biggest weakness.' The former model blamed Trump, who hardly ever wore a mask and held large rallies and campaign events where attendees rarely covered their faces or socially distanced. 'He was careless,' she said. 'He didnt think it would happen to him.' Ivana added that she is 'going to be afraid until he gets well and he gets out of it,' but she doesn't believe his illness will affect his re-election campaign. 'He will win,' she said. 'Theres no question about it.' Stunt: Trump was driven by his supporters outside Walter Reed hospital on Sunday afternoon, prompting criticism from some for risking infecting his Secret Service agents While Ivana dined with friends on Sunday afternoon, Trump made the surprise appearance outside Walter Reed hospital when he was driven by supporters who had turned out with signs, flags, and banners. His appearance prompted criticism from some, including a Walter Reed doctor, who said it was irresponsible of Trump to get into the Presidential SUV with the Secret Service agents and risk infecting them. The White House insisted that the journey was safe and was cleared by Trump's doctors. Some Secret Service agents have since described Trump's hospital drive-by as reckless for putting his security detail at risk of contracting COVID-19 and said the two agents wouldn't have been able to say no. At least two of Trump's Secret Service detail are facing 14 days of isolation after traveling in a sealed car with the infected president during the motorcade stunt. On Monday morning, President Trump sent out a stream of tweets urging people to vote for him in the upcoming election. Anonymous aides said he has grown tired of watching the constant news coverage of his health, and he wants to leave Walter Reed and resume a full working schedule from the White House. Support: Trump supporters are pictured outside Walter Reed on Monday morning. There has been a strong presence outside the hospital since Trump was admitted on Friday night Early bird: On Monday morning, President Trump sent out a stream of tweets urging people to vote for him in the upcoming election One source cited by CNN said: 'He is done with the hospital' and is concerned about the toll his ongoing treatment for COVID-19 might have on his election chances. Trump thinks being in the hospital makes him look 'weak', the source said. It comes amid claims that President Trump knew he had tested positive with the virus on Thursday night but kept it secret during an interview on Fox. Other sources cited by The Washington Post said he is s bored of staying at Walter Reed and is tired of watching round-the-clock news coverage of his condition. He is desperate to get back to work in the White House but aides are concerned if he leaves too early, it may be more detrimental to his health. White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows on Monday insisted to Fox News that Trump was in good health and made 'good progress.' Meadows said he was 'optimistic' that President Trump would be discharged from the hospital on Monday. Meadows said that a decision would be made this afternoon on whether or not Trump will be discharged but that more consultations were needed. Foliar diseases, such as gray leaf spot, northern corn leaf blight, and southern rust, were estimated to cause annual losses ranging from 19,029 to 244,149 metric tons from 2012 to 2015 in Kentucky. To mitigate these damages, farmers have turned to foliar fungicides. However, as plant pathologist Carl Bradley explains, "Kentucky corn farmers had questions about the best timing to apply a foliar fungicide to their corn crop." To answer this question, Bradley and his colleagues at the University of Kentucky established corn fungicide research trials at nine locations throughout Kentucky. They evaluated a single fungicide application at the six-leaf collar stage (known as the V6 stage) or at the silking stage (known as the R1 stage) as well as a sequential application at both stages. They found that treatments at the silking stage provided the best foliar disease control. They also found that the single application at the silking stage did not differ from the sequential double application. "Our findings suggest that Kentucky corn growers likely can rely on a more cost-effective single fungicide application at R1 for foliar disease management and improve return on fungicide investment rather than making multiple applications at different times," said Bradley. As the data were collected from field trials conducted at nine locations across two years, Bradley and his colleagues were able to analyze a large dataset. "This helped us observe the effects of a foliar fungicide on corn across much of the corn-producing area of Kentucky, which gives much confidence in the results." This research is also the first to show that severity of Curvularia leaf spot can be reduced with a foliar fungicide application in the U.S. This is a new disease of corn in the region and this finding is a first step toward learning best management practices. ### For more information about this study, read "Effect of Benzovindiflupyr + Azoxystrobin + Propiconazole Fungicide Applied at Different Growth Stages on Foliar Disease Severity, Grain Yield, and Economic Benefit of Hybrid Corn Grown in Kentucky" published in the August issue of Plant Health Progress. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday carried out simultaneous raids across the country against Karnataka Congress leader DK Shivakumar and his brother DK Suresh, alleging that they had amassed disproportionate assets (DA) worth Rs 74.93 crore, people familiar with the development said. The agency has alleged that while serving as a cabinet minister in Karnataka, between April 1, 2013 and April 30, 2018 when Shivakumar held the portfolio of state energy minister his family members amassed illegal wealth to the tune of Rs 74 crore, which is 44.93% of their total income during this period. The CBI acted against Shivakumar on the basis of a sanction accorded to it by the Karnataka government on September 25, 2019 after the Enforcement Directorate (ED), during a money laundering probe, found that there is scope for an investigation under the Prevention of Corruption Act. After the state government gave a go-ahead to the CBI to investigate Shivakumar, the Centre too asked the agency to probe his role and others in February this year. The CBI filed a preliminary enquiry (PE) a precursor to the FIR in March this year, which, prime facie, revealed that DK Shivakumar amassed the ill-gotten wealth in his name and in the name of his family members. CBI spokesperson RK Gaur said that raids were conducted at 14 locations - including Karnataka, Delhi, Mumbai and at the premises of Shivakumar and others which led to recovery of Rs 57 lakh cash and several incriminating property documents, bank related information, computer hard disk, etc. Officials said that the searches started at 6 am at their residence located in Doddallahalli village in Kanakapura constituency, which is represented by Shivakumar in the state assembly. DK Suresh represents Bengaluru Rural in the Lok Sabha. According to the CBI FIR, reviewed by HT, preliminary inquiry revealed that Shivakumar and his family members had moveable and immovable assets worth Rs 33.92 crore before April 2013, according to his 2013 election affidavit. Between April 2013 and April 2018, the Congress leader and his family members acquired assets, movable and immovable to the tune of Rs 128 crore and the total value of the assets held by them at the end of the said period was at Rs 162 crore, said the CBI FIR. The FIR adds that their total income and receipts during these five years was Rs 166 crore while their total expenditure was Rs 113 crore. Therefore, they are found to be in possession of assets disproportionate to the tune of Rs 74.93 crore which is 44.93% of their total income and the same cannot be satisfactorily explained by the accused, the FIR adds. Congress instantly condemned the raids, calling it a political vendetta and an insidious game of intimidation. The insidious game of intimidation & machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding @DKShivakumar wont deter us. CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt. But, Raid Raj is their only Machiavellian Move! Randeep Singh Surjewala, the Congress national spokesperson, tweeted. Let Modi & Yeddyurappa Govts & BJPs frontal organizations i.e CBI-ED-Income Tax know that Congress workers & leaders will not be cowed down nor bow down before such devious attempts. Our resolve to fight for people & expose BJPs maladministration only becomes stronger, he added. Shivakumar was arrested on September 23 last year by the ED. He is currently out on bail. The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a fundraising wave in the Indian corporate world for various reasons such as funding growth, repaying loans and working capital requirements. One of the ways in which some companies raise money from the public is by selling a small stake to its existing shareholders, by way of a rights issue. If you are a shareholder of a company, which has just announced a rights issue, you have the option to pay and subscribe to the rights issue. But these days many individuals financials are also in financial stress. Some may have money but may not be keen to invest more in a company in an uncertain environment. If you are one of those, then you have the option to encash your rights entitlements. But it comes with some caveats. What are Rights Entitlements (RE)? The concept of RE came into existence after SEBI's (Issue of capital and disclosure requirements) ICDR regulations Amendment on December 26, 2019. When a company announces rights share, the offer clearly specifies the ratio in which the shareholders are offered to buy additional shares. For example, in the ongoing rights issue, shareholders of Deepak Fertilisers & Petrochemicals (DFPCL) are offered three equity shares for every 20 equity shares held. Such shares on offer by way of rights are termed as RE. After the aforesaid amendment, the regulator instructed crediting the RE to the eligible shareholders demat account. In simple words, a rights issue gives the shareholders a right to buy shares. You can choose to exercise the rights by buying these shares or you can choose not to buy the shares. Post-December 2019, you can sell your RE if you want to make some money. Shareholders holding shares on the rights issues record date are eligible to receive RE. The RE are credited at least one day before the rights issue opens for subscription. The RE have a separate International Securities Identification Number (ISIN) code. They appear like any other share listed in your demat account. How to sell rights entitlement in the secondary market? RE can be sold in the secondary market the way you sell any other share held. RE sold are marked for delivery. Intra-day trading is not allowed in RE. Selling RE on the stock exchange is permitted until a few days before the issue closing date. Shareholders not keen to subscribe to their rights can sell it easily to those who want to buy at the traded price on the stock exchange, says Kkunal Parar, Senior Research Associate, Choice Broking. Do assess the demand and supply for it looking at bid and ask quotes. Key in the order and hit the sell button. Your broker account reflects money credit after two days since the trades are settled following T+2 settlement system, like any other cash market sale. If you are a shareholder eligible to participate in the rights issue, then there is no need to pay any money to the company to obtain RE. The price of RE in the secondary market depends on various factors such as the difference between the rights issue price and the price of the share in the secondary market. It also depends on the investors interest. Before the introduction of RE, the renunciation of rights used to happen offline. The investors used to fill up the renunciation form which used to come along with the rights application form. Pricing was not derived through market mechanism and it was completely offline, says Narendra Jain, Chief Operating Officer, IIFL Securities. However, after the introduction of RE in demat form and allowing trading in it on a stock exchange has changed the scene. Since stock exchange can offer wide participation from both buyers and sellers, there is a fair chance of price discovery. For example, in the aforesaid rights issue of DFPCL, on the first two days of trading in RE has seen the price oscillate between Rs 26.65 and Rs 16.55 with volumes in excess of 1.5 lakh RE on both days, both exchanges put together. As there is no cap or floor price as such and market forces are in control of the price, expect high volatility, sometimes much more than the stock price volatility. The price of RE and the price of fully paid equity share listed on the exchange will not be the same. What if you do not sell on the exchange? If you do not sell the RE on the stock exchange before the last date specified in the rights issue offer, still you can monetise RE offline. There is generally a gap of three days between the last trading date of RE and date of issue closing date. In this period, you can identify a buyer and transfer the RE to the buyers demat account using a transfer instruction. Ensure that such a transfer happens in such a manner that the buyer gets some time to apply for the rights, that is, before the issue closing date. Since the buyer knows that you do not have much options left, he may have an edge at the negotiation table. If both parties agree on the price, then you still take home some money. If you neither sell your RE nor apply for rights, then the RE lapse with the closure of the rights issue. What about Physical Shares? You can submit your demat account details to RTA well before the rights issue starts in writing, if you are holding shares in physical certificate format. RE are credited in your demat account. If you do this well in advance, then you can sell your RE. If you apply after trading in RE stops on exchange, then also you can sell RE as explained above. If you submit your details at least two days before the issue closes, then the RE are credited in your demat account and you can apply for rights, which are allotted to you after following due process in demat account only, says Makarand Joshi, partner, MMJC and Associates LLP - a corporate compliance firm. No physical RE are issued to eligible shareholders holding physical shares. Last Thursday, after news broke that Tony Holohan was returning to his role as Chief Medical Officer (CMO), a Government source who worked closely with him sent a text saying, Hell shut everything down followed by a laughing emoji. Today, they text, Told you. Dr Holohans return is a nightmare come true for some in Government who had become used to acting CMO Dr Ronan Glynn's more amenable style of handling the Covid-19 pandemic. On the same day it was announced that Dr Holohan was returning, the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) met to discuss the rise in new cases in certain counties. Read More Despite a spike in new cases, the group, which was being chaired by Dr Glynn, decided not to move the Level 3 counties Dublin and Donegal to a higher level of restrictions. Instead they recommended new rules on social gatherings which reduced the number of people who you can visit another home to six people from one other household. In his letter to Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, Dr Glynn said: "On balance, the Nphet agreed that while the current trajectory of the disease is very concerning, the current epidemiological data does not strongly support a move to Level 3 nationally at this time. It was not even necessary to hold a Cabinet meeting. The three leaders agreed to recommendations which essentially involved tinkering with the restrictions in Level 2. Dr Holohan returned to the Department of Health on Friday after taking three months off to look after his wife who was receiving palliative care when he stepped back from the role in early July. Also on Friday, Northern Ireland reported 934 new coronavirus cases which was more than double the 470 cases recorded in the South on the same day. Then the cases in Ireland shot up to 613 in Ireland on Saturday. In a statement, Dr Glynn said the rise in cases was a significant escalation and urged older people to take more precautions. "For those aged 70-plus and those who are medically vulnerable to Covid-19, it is strongly recommended that you should limit the number of people you meet to a very small core group of family members, carers or friends, for short periods of time, while remaining physically distant, he said. It wasnt known at the time but this was a clear signal of the direction things were going. Yesterday, Dr Holohan decided to call an emergency Nphet meeting to discuss the rise in new cases. The meeting caught many senior figures in Government off guard. But nothing would prepare them for what Dr Holohan was about to recommend on his first day back in the hot seat. Read More Sources say Dr Holohan told the meeting he had not thought he would have to meet on Sunday after returning to work two days earlier. The source said there were no divisions in the Nphet meeting on recommending Level 5 restrictions. Dr Holohan, Dr Glynn and Professor Philip Nolan, the chief epidemiologist on the team, were all on the same page. However, an Nphet source said Dr Holohan and Dr Glynn have very different styles of chairing meetings which became immediately apparent on his return. Dr Glynn is more likely to seek consensus among the various members while Dr Holohan is more assured of his own view on matters and will push his own agenda through, according to a source. Yesterday, he certainly ensured his return to the chair would cause a stir when it emerged the team had decided on advising Level 5 restrictions. In his letter to the Government, Dr Holohan said a graduated approach" to Covid-19 rules would not work and recommended the introduction of the most severe restrictions under the five-level plan for living with the virus. Dr Holohan said there had been a sustained increase in the number of cases among people over 65 which has risen from six per 10,000 to 67.3 per 100,000 in just over a month. The returning CMO said there are currently 31 outbreaks in nursing homes with seven reported in the last week. He said there are 25 outbreaks among vulnerable groups, with 10 in direct provision centres, seven among the Traveller community and another seven in homelessness services. After the news emerged yesterday evening, a senior Fine Gael source close to Tanaiste Leo Varadkar said: What has changed since Thursday when Nphet thought moving the country to Level 3 was not appropriate, other than Tony Holohan coming back? The Fine Gael source said the damage to the economy and to the nations mental health would be long standing if lockdown were to be imposed again. The source said everyone in Government Buildings was annoyed by how Nphet and Dr Holohan reacted. A senior Fianna Fail source said they were shocked by the decision and a Green Party source said Eamon Ryan was concerned about any move to Level 5 restrictions. There was also anger among ministers at how the news emerged and the fear it would cause among the public. Im fuming, one minister said, before adding: Serious public health advice like this should not be emerging at 9pm on a Sunday evening when families are putting their children to bed. Dr Holohan was called to Government Buildings to explain the logic behind recommending a national lockdown. After a lengthy meeting, the Government ultimately rejected the Nphet proposal and instead decided to go with Level 3 restrictions. Last week, Michigan had its highest number of new coronavirus cases since April. Ten counties now have a positivity rate of more than 5% on COVID-19 diagnostic tests. Thirty counties now have accelerated levels of spread, based on a metric developed by the Harvard Global Health Initiative to assess coronavirus risk levels. At the same time, the political fallout continues from the Michigan Supreme Courts decision on Friday, Oct. 2 to invalidate Gov. Gretchen Whitmers COVID-19 executive orders. Here are the latest developments on the COVID-19 pandemic for Monday, Oct. 5. Michigans coronavirus numbers are creeping up. Is it the start of a fall surge? Are the trendlines headed in the wrong direction? How much should Michigan residents worry about a fall surge that could rival the crisis that gripped metro Detroit in the spring? That the numbers are rising is somewhat expected, experts say. But its unclear whether this is a temporary blip or the start of something more serious. Its not a big surprise were seeing more cases, considering the reopening of schools and the fact colder weather means people are spending more time indoors, said Dr. Dennis Cunningham, a Flint infectious disease specialist with McLaren Health. Of course, when people come into in closer contact theres going to be more spread. Yet another big factor, said Cunningham and others, is that people are letting their guard down. People are getting tired of COVID, Cunningham said. We all miss our old lives, and I worry people are getting a little bit lax. I completely understand why. But man, I really worry were going to have a bad respiratory season. Cunningham called the recent uptick in the numbers depressing and said he was absolutely worried about a fall surge. But others sound less alarmed. Since the states economic reopening in June, theres been rolling ups and downs affecting different parts of Michigan at different times, which is what appears to be happening now, said Jimena Lovelock, head of the Washtenaw County Health Department. Michigan AG will no longer enforce governors executive orders after court ruling Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel will no longer enforce the governors executive orders by criminal prosecution, though she urges residents to continue following COVID-19 safety guidelines. The announcement from Nessels office comes after the Michigan Supreme Court decision on Friday ruled the governor does not have authority to extend emergency orders under two emergency acts -- the Emergency Management Act from 1976 and the Emergency Powers of the Governor Act from 1945. Neither act, the court ruled, gave Whitmer the authority to continue declaring states of emergency or issuing unilateral orders under them past April 30, when her initial declaration would have expired. Related: Gov. has no authority to continue state of emergency, Michigan Supreme Court rules The attorney generals statement was released Sunday, Oct. 4, by press secretary Ryan Jarvi. The decision by Nessels office, Jarvi wrote, is not binding on other law enforcement agencies or state departments with independent enforcement authority. The statement notes it is the attorney generals fervent hope that people would continue to abide by measures put in place by the governor, including the use of face masks, social distancing guidelines and staying home when sick. If it werent for the governors actions, countless more of our friends, family and neighbors would have been lost to COVID-19, the statement said. We can respect both the courts decision and the advice of medical experts by continuing with these important measures voluntarily. Whitmer: Michigan Supreme Court undermined public health efforts amid COVID-19 pandemic Whitmer pulled no punches during a television appearance Sunday, offering her thoughts about the state Supreme Courts decision over her use of emergency powers during the COVID-19 pandemic. During a five-minute appearance Sunday morning on CNNs State of the Union, Whitmer told host Jake Tapper she was disappointed in the outcome two days ago by Michigans high court striking down her use of two emergency acts to continue the state of emergency. Neither act, the court ruled, gave her the authority to continue declaring states of emergency or issuing unilateral orders under them past April 30, when her initial declaration would have expired. Responding to a question by Tapper on the rise in COVID-19 cases in the state in recent days, she noted an increase in cases in the Upper Peninsula to levels seen early on during the pandemic. She also referenced news that broke Friday of President Donald Trump testing positive for COVID-19. Weve saved thousands of lives and the Supreme Court, on a slim majority Republican vote, undermined that effort," Whitmer said. No mask requirement in Davison K-4 classrooms, district says, after court ruling Kindergarten through fourth-grade students will not be required to wear masks in classrooms at Davison Community Schools. The district will not require students in those grades to wear a mask in classrooms in direct response to a Michigan Supreme Court decision late last week. Though students in those grades had expected a mask requirement to begin Monday, district officials said no such requirement will be in place as a result of the court ruling. In one of Gov. Whitmers last executive orders, students in grades K-4 were to begin wearing masks in the classroom beginning tomorrow (Oct. 5), said a statement from Davison Community Schools. Because of the Supreme Courts ruling, we will NOT require students in grades K-4 to wear masks in the classrooms. Students in those grades WILL still be required to wear masks on the bus, in the hallways and when moving place to place as they have since school began. Are snow days a thing of the past for Michigan schools? The days of waking up to snowfall and heading back to sleep because school is canceled may be a thing of the past. Students across Michigan are learning virtually this year amid the coronavirus pandemic and inclement weather may no longer stand in the way of getting to class safely. Though many superintendents say snow days arent something to worry about for another couple of months, some students have already taking to social media with jokes about saying goodbye to the cherished break from school with online learning. COVID-19 PREVENTION TIPS In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus. Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible. Use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and carry hand sanitizer with you when you go into places like stores. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has also issued executive orders requiring people to wear face coverings over their mouth and nose while in public indoor and crowded outdoor spaces. See an explanation of what that means here. Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. For more data on COVID-19 in Michigan, visit https://www.mlive.com/coronavirus/data/. The Nov. 3 election is nearing and there is a flurry of activity from local candidates heading into election day. From early voting to candidate specifics local residents need to know, following are updates and details on the upcoming election. The early, in-person voting period begins on Oct. 13, and continues until Oct. 30, with three distinct weekly segments that offer voters different hours and days of operation to cast ballots before Nov. 3. On HoustonChronicle.com: Monday is the final day for Texans to register to vote in November The first period of early, in-person voting begins across the state Oct. 13, and runs through Oct. 17, with hours of operation from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no early session Oct. 18. Early in-person voting enters the second week starting Oct. 19, and continues through Oct. 24, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day. There is one Sunday early voting session, slated for Oct. 25 from noon to 5 p.m. The final week of early voting begins Oct. 26, and continues through Oct. 30, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day. The election day is Nov. 3, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dotson explains social unrest comments During the Oct. 1, online candidate forum hosted by the Windsor Hills Homeonwers Association, Position 2 candidate Jimmie Dotson caused some concern among viewers and others after he listed social unrest in The Woodlands as one of the top three most pressing issues facing the community in the future. He also warned about being vigilant to domestic terrorism in the community. On Monday, Dotson clarified his comments, saying he does not believe any sort of violent protests or riots will happen in The Woodlands, but in light of social justice issues continuing to be a focal point across the nation, it is good to be prepared. I was not trying to be fear-mongering. As a public safety person, you have to be prepared. I dont think these things are going to happen, but you have to be prepared, Dotson explained. There are some issues around the country with protests and social unrest, we are not immune from them in The Woodlands. As any police chief will tell you, you need to be prepared for the future. I was not trying to fear-monger, but as we look to the future, we need to be prepared. On HoustonChronicle.com: Dotson is first Black candidate for Woodlands Township board Dotson, the first Black candidate in the short history of the township board, is now a law enforcement consultant. After he served a combat tour of duty in Vietnam, he had a more than 40 year career as a decorated police official, including stints as chief of police of Chattanooga, Tenn., and the Houston Independent School District. He is contesting three other candidate for the Position 2 seat. Keichline says dont vote for him One candidate in the Position 1 seat race for The Woodlands Township Board of Directors has quit the race and is not seeking election, however his name will be on the ballot. Ron Keichline announced in a Facebook post on Sept. 25 he was quitting the race for the Position 1 seat and urged residents to not cast any ballots for him. Please spread the word that my name will still appear on the November ballot the formal withdrawal period is five days after close of filing but I ask you not to cast your vote for me, Keichline stressed in an interview. On HoustonChronicle.com: Citing job issues, Woodlands candidate Keichline ends election bid Because the state deadline to remove a name from the official ballot was at 5 p.m. Aug. 21 , Keichlines name will appear on all ballots, including ones that were mailed weeks ago to voters as well as on ballot machines during early voting and on Nov. 3. With Keichlines withdraw from consideration, voters will now choose between incumbent Bunch and Smith. To be removed from the ballot voters see each election, a candidate is required by state law to submit a written, signed and officially notarized affidavit of withdraw of candidacy. One other candidate who had filed papers to appear on the Position 1 seat ballot also dropped out of the election, but before the deadline. One candidate has altered name on ballot A candidate for the Position 2 seat on the township board has a slightly altered name on the ballot which is different than his official name. On HoustonChronicle.com: Granados seeks Woodlands board seat in third campaign effort Luis Granados, in his third bid for the board in three years, will appear on the ballot as Louis Granados. He said in a past interview that voters had difficulty pronouncing his name so he felt Louis would be helpful to voters as they consider candidates. Granados is one of three candidate for the Position 2 seat, which is currently held by appointee Jason J. Nelson. The seat was formerly held by Brian Boniface, however he resigned from the board on April 9 in order to serve a six-month humanitarian mission in the U. S. Army Reserves. The other candidates are Nelson, Jimmie Dotson and Thomas Chumbley. In 2018, Granados sought the Position 3 seat but was kicked off the ballot after leaving parts of his candidate application blank. In 2019, Granados ran against incumbent Ann Snyder for the Position 6 seat, losing in a landslide to Snyder. jeff.forward@chron.com Scientists have made significant progress in understanding the sources of radiation events that could impact human space-flight operations. Relativistic Electron Precipitation (REP) events are instances when high energy electrons move through areas of space at significant fractions of the speed of light. These REP events may pose challenges to human spaceflight, specifically during extravehicular activity (EVA). These hazards motivate the question of whether REP events can be forecasted in order to avoid unnecessary human exposure to radiation. In order to predict REP events, their cause must first be determined. A scientific team led by researchers at the National Institute of Polar Research (NIPR) in Japan has made strides in answering that question. Their findings were published on August 14 in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics. Ryuho Kataoka, the lead author of the study and an associate professor at NIPR, pinpointed the cause of REP events and emphasized that REP events must be accounted for in human spaceflight missions. "The importance of understanding REP events has been increasing since the REP events have been clearly identified at International Space Station (ISS)," Kataoka said. "REP events are important because they cause radiation dose during EVAs." It has been hypothesized that electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves play an important role in REP events at the ISS. It was still an open question, however, whether other mechanisms played a role in REP event generation. EMIC waves are electromagnetic waves that propagate through the plasma in Earth's magnetosphere, causing disturbances in the charged particles within the plasma. Using multiple sensors aboard the ISS, as well as data from the Arase satellite, the research group was able to show that at least three separate processes contributed to REP events. One is indeed EMIC waves. But the data also suggested two other sources: Whistler mode chorus waves and electrostatic whistler waves. Whistler mode waves can be excited by high energy electrons associated with auroral activities, such as the Northern Lights. "It turned out that REP events at the ISS are caused not only by EMIC waves but also by whistler mode waves, which makes the space weather forecast more difficult," Kataoka said. With a better understanding of the physical causes of REP events, Kataoka and his team are working towards ways to predict future events. "The next step is the space weather forecast of REP events at the ISS by modeling different kinds of plasma wave activities. The ultimate goal is to obtain a unified theory to understand the interaction between energetic particles and plasma waves, and their impact of radiation dose on the atmosphere, space craft, and human beings." ### About National Institute of Polar Research (NIPR) The NIPR engages in comprehensive research via observation stations in Arctic and Antarctica. As a member of the Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS), the NIPR provides researchers throughout Japan with infrastructure support for Arctic and Antarctic observations, plans and implements Japan's Antarctic observation projects, and conducts Arctic researches of various scientific fields such as the atmosphere, ice sheets, the ecosystem, the upper atmosphere, the aurora and the Earth's magnetic field. In addition to the research projects, the NIPR also organizes the Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition and manages samples and data obtained during such expeditions and projects. As a core institution in researches of the polar regions, the NIPR also offers graduate students with a global perspective on originality through its doctoral program. For more information about the NIPR, please visit: https://www.nipr.ac.jp/english/ About the Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS) The Research Organization of Information and Systems (ROIS) is a parent organization of four national institutes (National Institute of Polar Research, National Institute of Informatics, the Institute of Statistical Mathematics and National Institute of Genetics) and the Joint Support-Center for Data Science Research. It is ROIS's mission to promote integrated, cutting-edge research that goes beyond the barriers of these institutions, in addition to facilitating their research activities, as members of inter-university research institutes. New Delhi: Jet Airways, which saw a steep fall in its third quarter net profit, Monday said demand has been slowing in the Gulf sector amid a fall in oil prices. In the three months ended December 2016, the full-service carrier recorded a nearly 70 per cent plunge in net profit at Rs 142.38 crore as higher fuel expenses and other costs took a toll on its bottom line. The airline logged a net profit of Rs 467.11 crore in the year-ago period. During a conference call to discuss the latest quarterly results, Jet Airways Acting CEO Amit Agarwal said the Gulf sector is witnessing slow demand due to the slump in oil prices. Lower oil prices have adversely impacted many Gulf economies, squeezing their spending power. In the third quarter, the Gulf region had a muted performance for the airline while the international RASK came down to 11.2 per cent, he added. RASK (Revenue per Available Seat Kilometre) is an indicator of profitability for an airline. The Gulf sector is a key revenue source for the airline whose strategic partner is Etihad Airways. According to Agarwal, demand is being stimulated by discounts as there is increased capacity and weak demand. Jet Airways total income from operations stood at Rs 5,478.07 crore in the October-December quarter of the current fiscal, according to a filing to the BSE. The same was at Rs 5,443.97 crore in the corresponding period a year ago. In the 2016 December quarter, the airline carried more number of passengers at 6.79 million compared to 6.52 million in the same period a year ago. While announcing the quarterly results on February 3, Jet Airways Chairman Naresh Goyal had said that in spite of the continuing downward pressure on yields caused by aggressive capacity addition in the industry as well as weaker international aviation markets, the carrier achieved positive results. We have deepened our code-share relationships with our strategic partner, Etihad Airways, and also with other airlines in the Far-East, the Asia-Pacific and Africa, he had said. Arrest after off road event in Wrexham Minister says he would certainly not consider it to be a reasonable excuse for travel to attend such events This article is old - Published: Monday, Oct 5th, 2020 The Health Minister Vaughan Gething has indicated outdoor events can be possible in areas of local lockdown, but has said it would not be a reasonable excuse to travel from outside of county to an event such as one held yesterday in Wrexham. One person has been arrested and another reported following an off road event involving 44 vehicles in Llwyneinion Woods in the Rhos yesterday. Police attended the site and say they used the four Es approach to Covid 19 regulations, of Engage, Encourage, and Explain and as a last resort Enforce, dealt with the gathering. The participants dispersed once officers spoke to them. Police say the landowner has been reported for Covid 19 offences, one motorist was arrested for drug driving and another man is being dealt with for drug-related matters. Inspector Mike Norbury said, This event was a clear breach of the Covid 19 regulations. People who attended must have been aware of what they can and cannot do. We are determined to protect the local community and although our approach is always to engage and explain to people what they should be doing, we will take robust enforcement action when necessary. The arrested man has been released under investigation. Cllr Hugh Jones, Lead Member for People Communities, Partnerships Public Protection and Community Safety, at Wrexham Council said, I would like to thank North Wales Police for acting quickly and effectively here. It is clear that gatherings such as this will not be tolerated and appropriate action will be taken. The rules are very clear and it is all of our responsibility to make sure that we are aware of them and, more importantly, stick to them. On the events Facebook page last night the organisers said, Despite spending a lot of time ensuring we had dotted all the Is and crossed all the Ts regarding the current Coronavirus Legislation and recently introduced Local Lockdown Restrictions, there were complaints from locals which resulted in an unexpected Police presence. Which did cause some disruption later on in the day, for which we can only apologise! Our COVID-Secure events are fully legal, and in line with current legislation and local lockdown restrictions. For those of you that travelled into Wrexham County Borough to work todays event as Safety Marshals or Recovery Operatives, your travel into the county for work was permitted under the reasonable excuse section of local lockdown rules, and information received from another local events company confirmed that the police advise was that travel into the county to attend COVID-Secure events was permitted under the local lockdown rules. Today we asked the Health Minister at the daily Welsh Government briefing about the event, which at the time had no reported action by police and had appeared to continue, we enquired if that was the Coronavirus Regulations working as he had hoped, or if not, did the law need changing. The Minister replied, People can travel within county, but they need to follow the rules when they do so on social distancing. So it may be possible for events particularly outdoor events to go ahead within that county. But, there should not be cross border travel. I would certainly not consider it to be a reasonable excuse to travel from outside of county with local restrictions for an off road event. People need to think seriously about how they follow the rules not try to distinguish out what is plainly not considered to be within them. We are at a point of real maximum seriousness and risk for the country. I said previously, I think were at an equivalent position to February. I think were much more now like the end of February, the start of March, were seeing a rising tide of cases, we are taking earlier action because our line of sight, our local intelligence about what is happening, our national intelligence picture is much clearer than it was in February and March. It is not inevitable that the tide of Coronavirus cases recedes. The cases will rise if people dont look again how we avoid contacts, minimise the groups of people we are indoors with, with especially to follow those rules on regular washing of hands, maintaining social distancing, and wearing a mask where you should do in accordance with the laws of Wales. You can view the Welsh Government briefing in full below, along with the Q&A session President Moon Jae-in speaks during a meeting with his senior aides at Cheong Wa Dae, Monday. Yonhap By Do Je-hae The biggest keywords in Korean politics following the Chuseok holidays are "Cabinet reshuffle" that is purportedly to take place to enhance the mood in the troubled Moon Jae-in administration. Facing complex challenges to the economy and on North Korea, among other issues, President Moon is facing growing calls to replace select ministers to ensure more effective policy-making, thereby restoring public trust in his government and avoiding a lame-duck presidency. According to the latest surveys, the President has been losing support after the recent influence-peddling scandal involving Justice Minister Choo Mi-ae, which has cast strong doubts over Moon's drive for social justice, following allegations she facilitated special treatment for her son during his mandatory military service. Public sentiment has also turned increasingly negative after the President's weak message toward North Korea following the shooting death of a South Korean maritime official at the hands of North Korean military personnel at the maritime border between the two Koreas, Sept. 22. Against this background, the need for a change in the Cabinet is reportedly gaining consensus within the ruling bloc. During a recent media interview, Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said that he believed the President was getting reports about the need for change. Speculation is rising that Cheong Wa Dae has begun the search for replacements for some ministers who have served in the administration since it was inaugurated in May 2017. The longest serving ministers include Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha and Health Minister Park Neung-hoo. The possibility of replacing Kang has been highlighted in the wake of a scandal over her husband making a trip to the U.S. for the "non-essential" purpose of buying a yacht, which is seen as going against the government's guidelines to refrain from overseas travel to ensure protection against the COVID-19 pandemic. Park, who has been under fire over multiple policy missteps and slips of the tongue, caused a new controversy recently with the ministry's Chuseok celebration poster in which he appears. Criticism arose that the poster looked like an election campaign poster and the ministry was wasting taxpayers' money on promoting its chief. Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki will have served two years in December. Kim Hyun-mee, minister of land, infrastructure and transport, has also been a key target of the opposition for the Moon administration's missteps in housing policy. Minister Sung Yun-mo of trade, industry and energy and Park Young-sun, minister of SMEs and startups, have also served a relatively long time. Park, a four-term lawmaker, is reportedly being mentioned as a strong contender for the Seoul mayoral by-election in April 2021. In particular, there is a high level of public interest in whether Moon will finally respond to the incessant calls from the opposition to get rid of Choo. In addition, there have been rumors that Moon will replace his chief of staff Noh Young-min, who has become a symbol of the administration's failed housing policy aimed at containing property speculation with a controversy over him owning multiple apartments. Ruling bloc insiders say that a reshuffle could take place before the end of the year, after the National Assembly's audit into the government and its review of next year's budget finish. But the presidential office is remaining silent about this. "We cannot confirm personnel changes in advance," a senior presidential aide told reporters. "The atmosphere at the presidential office is far from such reporting." Despite his falling support, the President is underlining his resolve to keep pushing with policy priorities to improve the economy amid the COVID-19 crisis. "The government will do its best to produce solid results through its quarantine measures, and to revive the people's livelihoods and the economy as soon as possible," Moon said during a weekly meeting with senior aides, Monday. Brandon Scott will be the next in a long line of Democrats to run the city of Baltimore. He won the Democratic primary, and Baltimore is essentially a one party town. Like many big cities run by Democrats, Baltimore is plagued by violent crime. In Baltimore, this plague is the direct result of its politicians unwillingness to support the police following the accidental death of Freddy Gray. In last weeks debate, President Trump, noting the obvious, listed Baltimore as one of the cites run by Democrats where violent crime is out of control. Baltimore deserves to be at or near the top of the list for the reason I just noted. Brandon Scott isnt yet strongly implicated in Baltimores scandalous inability to protect its citizens from violence. Yet, he didnt want to hear Trump talk about that failure. He cant handle the truth. Thus, he responded to Trumps calling out of Baltimore with this tweet: @POTUS @realDonaldTrump unless you are bringing resources and addressing economic, racial, and environmental injustices in my city. KEEP BALTIMORE OUT OF YOUR MOUTH Forget the presumptuousness of a hack local politician trying to tell the U.S. President (or any American citizen) what he cant say. The real problem with Scotts moronic statement is that it tries to absolve Baltimores criminals and its leaders from responsibility for the citys crime wave. Economic, racial, and environmental injustices are to blame, not bad people and bad policies. Baltimore is no more unjust now than it was before its murder rate soared half a decade ago. What has changed is that Baltimore is less policed than it was back then. And thats thanks to the policies and pronouncement of its pathetic Democrat mayors and other leading pols. It seems clear that Brandon Scott will continue in their tradition. Thus, it seems equally clear that Baltimore will remain exhibit A when informed people talk about the breakdown in law and order under the watch (if you can call it that) of Democratic mayors. Via Jazz Shaw. Welcome Guest! You Are Here: We take a look at the concerted efforts to boost sturgeon numbers in the Hungarian stretch of the Danube, with the ultimate conservation prize, counterintuitively, a return to commercial fishing. The box on the trailer looks plain, utilitarian and rather uninteresting as it is maneuvered down the slipway towards the Danube river. The location is Baja, southern Hungary, and the trailer stops a few yards from the water. A team of six men open it: inside, 460 juvenile sterlet, the smallest species of sturgeon, have one, short journey to make before they are released into the wild. Having checked the temperatures of both river and tank water, the men move quickly, scooping the young fish out of the big tank in nets, transferring them into buckets, about a dozen at a time, before releasing them into the river. At first, some look confused, barely moving in their new found freedom. Others turn belly up, and appear at risk of dying. But after no more than a minute or so, sometimes helped by human hand, all successfully swim off into deeper water. All are tagged for later identification if caught. This scene, observed in mid-May this year, was the latest chapter in a long-running effort to restock the Danube with sturgeon species in Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania. These restockings are intended to strengthen the native sturgeon populations in the Danube region, supporting the unity of the ecological green-corridor, and is especially important for migratory fish species, Laszlo Berzi-Nagy, assistant research fellow at the Hungarian Institute for Fisheries and Aquaculture (NAIK-HAKI). Indeed, this restocking, part of an EU-backed, so-called MEASURES project, is only the latest in a long-line of efforts that began during the late communist era and has seen some 210,000 sterlet in total introduced into the Hungarian section of the Danube since 1988. Such operations typically involve cooperation between research institutes, fishing associations and academics, while in some cases Hungarian fish farms and regional angling associations have voluntarily restocked sterlet without recording the number of fish involved. In the May project, the sterlet, all about one year old and weighing around half a kilogram, were bred and raised by the Aquaculture Institute. But, the layman might ask, why are such large numbers of fish seemingly needed? Dramatic Decline The decline in both sturgeon numbers and species in the Danube has been dramatic, says Jutta Jahrl, project manager and sturgeon specialist at the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in Vienna. There used to be six species of sturgeon in the Danube, with the [much coveted] beluga even migrating into Germany, although this was not common. Two are now extinct, leaving only four species, and of these, only the sterlet is normally found in the middle and upper Danube, Jahrl says. In terms of fish catches, the numbers paint an even bleaker picture. Reports of sharp reductions of beluga sturgeon date from as early as the 16th century. Recent records, however, are truly shocking: Romania, for example, saw a catch of 1,144 tonnes in 1940 reduced to less than eight tonnes in 1995. Thats a reduction of 99.3%. The causes are several and complex, but the construction of the Iron Gates dam system on the joint Romanian-Serbian section of the Danube, along with poaching and unsustainable fishing loom large in the list. Unfortunately there is this huge construction of the Iron Gates dams 860 km up river [from the Black Sea] between Romania and Serbia, This has been blocking the migration route since the 1970s, laments Jahrl. This blockage means that the three species that used to reach Hungary for spawning, beluga, Russian and stellate sturgeon, have since been restricted to the lower Danube. It has left the middle section (including Hungary) with only sterlet as a stable population, as these do not migrate, living their entire lives in freshwater. But even though sterlet are the smallest species of sturgeon, usually grown for their meat rather than their caviar, fish stocks still suffer from poaching, and the sterlet remains vulnerable in the Danube, according to the WWF. True, after years of campaigning by WWF, it is now generally illegal to fish for sturgeon in Hungary and along much of the course of the Danube. However, with beluga caviar selling at GBP 370 for a 30g tin at Harrods in London (thats around EUR 14,000 per kilogram) it is easy to see why the authorities downstream of the Iron Gates have regular, sometimes violent encounters with organized poaching gangs. Lucrative Catch Even with sterlet caviar selling at only EUR 275 for 250g, or EUR 1,100 per kilo, on Latvian website shopmottra.com, Hungarys fish represent a lucrative, if illegal, catch. With successful restocking, could commercial fishing for sturgeon in the Danube ever become a viable proposition? That, actually, is our goal, says Jahrl. Sturgeon used to be a real source of income. Twenty years ago, Romania and Bulgaria were in the top 10 of caviar exporters. It was an important economic sector. Restoring commercial fishing in a sustainable way would in practice mean the protection of the species, she argues, pointing to the United States, as an example. Im sure you know what crazy amount they pay for caviar at the moment. It only comes from aquaculture, but fortunately in the U.S. they are getting close to the situation where they can start harvesting wild sturgeon again in a very limited and controlled way. We really hope that we live long enough to see that in the Danube as well, she says. Meanwhile, with no further releases planned for this year, Laszlo Berzi-Nagy is planning to conduct a survey of the sterlet population in the Danube this fall, using a so-called electric fishing system to ensure the fish can be returned to the river unharmed. Despite poachers, loss of spawning habitat through dredging and gravel extraction, pollution and predatory birds, he reckons the survival rate of the fish is around 80%, particularly if allowed to grow for a year before release. Asked how he feels after completing the sterlet release, Berzi-Nagy replies: Its a very peaceful moment to rear these fish and return them to the water. This is a rare occasion when humanity doesnt take, but gives to nature, and in this matter, I find it respectful. Sterlet Fact Box Sterlet (Acipenser ruthenus) may be the smallest species of sturgeon, but the fish can still live for up to 25 years, grow to a meter in length and weigh 16 kg. Today, it is the most widely distributed sturgeon in the Danube River basin. The average reproductive age is comparably low, at about seven to eight years. The sterlet is a bottom feeder, living on crustaceans, worms and insect larvae. Its meat is highly prized in Russia and Ukraine. When Catie Torres said goodbye to her boyfriend at the airport this March, she never thought she would spend the rest of the year wondering when she would see him again. A nurse raised in Livermore, Torres met her partner, Akis, while on vacation in Greece just over two years ago. The pair struck up a lively conversation on the day of her arrival, and she remembers how they instantly connected. Since then, the couple hasnt spent more than two months apart, traveling to one anothers home countries for periodic visits. Last summer, Torres even acquired a student visa to continue her education in Greece so they could try out living together. It was perfect. I never wanted to leave, she recalled. Our goal is for me to finish school, and then move to Greece so we can be together. Then, the pandemic hit. Just after Akis flight departed, the country closed its borders to noncitizens, and the United States as well as the European Union imposed a travel ban with the aim of curbing the spread of the coronavirus. Such restrictions were implemented to deter tourism, but also prevented families as well as long-distance couples who are not married from being able to see one another during an especially challenging time. Torres had previously booked a flight to see Akis again in May, and when it was canceled, she felt devastated. She recently moved to Reno, Nevada, to help take care of her grandpa while she finishes school, and is counting down the days until she can be reunited with her partner again. I know that this is the man for me, and it hurts us so much to know that there is no end in sight yet, she said. In the meantime, however, shes found solace in Love is not Tourism, a Facebook group with over 32,000 members who are imploring their respective governments to amend their travel restrictions, allowing unmarried couples and their family members to safely reunite. Some countries have already changed their laws as a result of the movement. Love is not Tourism has its own group of Greek couples in a group chat, and we talk all the time, said Torres, noting that many of their conversations are focused on creating petitions and lobbying the government to safely reform the ban. We just hope that they hear us. MORE: Bay Area couple stuck in Morocco as coronavirus shuts down travel: 'Not sure how we're getting back' Saskia Talvio, a member of a like-minded group called Couples Separated by Travel Bans, finds herself in a similar predicament. Originally from Finland, she met her boyfriend, Serdar Serttop, while completing an internship in Istanbul, Turkey, five years ago. The couple had always been long distance, but their relationship was put to the test when he moved to the Bay Area, founding the start-up company Smart Mimic, Inc. in Sunnyvale. Still, the couple was able to visit one another every two or three months, staying in touch over phone calls and FaceTime conversations during their time apart. A registered nurse in Finland, Talvio said her job provides her with the flexibility to work a few months in a row, then stay in the U.S. for an extended period of time. But because of the pandemic and subsequent travel ban, eight months passed before they were able to see one another again the longest amount of time theyd been apart. Talvio attempted to book the soonest flight out to the U.S that she could, but said travel restrictions made it difficult for them to reunite because they did not have a marriage certificate. Weve had such a long relationship, but apparently its not good enough on paper, she said. It doesnt take anything away from the seriousness of what we have. But there was nothing to do than just wait. Then, Talvio discovered a loophole: Though the CDC says that the risk of COVID-19 remains high in Turkey, the country was deemed safe enough to reopen its borders on June 11. She could fly there, take a COVID test and quarantine for 14 days before taking a direct flight to the San Francisco International Airport. Shes able to stay in the Bay Area for five weeks before returning home. I remember when I was grabbing my luggage and walking away from the plane, I was still thinking, Did I actually make it? I had been stressing a lot, so it was a relief, she said. Next time, he will fly to me, and we hope the world will open up a little more so it will be easier for him than it was for me. Meanwhile, San Francisco resident Adriana Roberts and her long-term partner Jupiter Gatling are still living together in Berlin after reuniting in early August. A prominent local DJ known for hosting the Bootie Mashup parties at DNA Lounge, Roberts said her work all but dissolved as a result of the shelter-in-place order. Fortunately, she was able to pivot to livestreaming her gigs on Twitch a pursuit that kept her sane while she waited nearly five months to see Gatling again. The timing was just so horrible, said Roberts. On March 10, Gatling was headed home after a three-month stay in San Francisco. By the time she landed in Berlin the following day, the E.U. had barred international travelers from visiting. There was a 36-hour time window where I could have dropped everything, packed a suitcase and flown to Berlin. At the time, we all thought the shutdown would only last for a month or two, Roberts recounted during our conversation. Within a few weeks, I realized it would not be ending any time soon. I felt so stupid. I wish I had had the foresight for what would come, but none of us have a crystal ball. The couple quickly fell into a routine, FaceTiming every day and constantly texting one another. They scoured news sites for updates on travel restrictions, throwing themselves into their creative work while they waited. Finally, they formulated a plan. By mid-July, the borders to Hungary had opened up to Americans, permitting them to enter if they had quarantined for 14 days, or if they were able to provide two negative COVID-19 tests that had been taken within 48 hours of one another at least five days before arriving in the country. Roberts took both tests, and the couple made arrangements to meet up in Budapest, where a couple of DJs she had previously booked had offered them a place to stay. But on the day before she left, everything changed. I woke up in the morning and my phone was blowing up, said Roberts. Jupiter was like, Hold everything! Germany had opened its borders to unmarried couples. The decision was confirmed by the German Minister of Interior Horst Seehofer following a fairly vocal movement spearheaded by the Love is not Tourism group using the hashtag #loveisessential. Roberts was able to change her flights and arrived at the airport three days later. Once there, she was asked to hand over an abundance of paperwork, including an invitation to visit the country from her partner, a signed declaration letter that confirmed they were together, as well as plane tickets and passport stamps that provided proof of prior travel to Germany, verifying the couple had, in fact, met there. Roberts coyly recalled that fateful moment eight years ago: I was performing at a Bootie Mashup show in Berlin, and we were both dressed like pirates. After seeking out Roberts in the crowd, Gatling complimented her performance, and later that night, they kissed. She thought theyd never see each other again. But when she was performing in Munich the following week, her eyes were immediately drawn to Gatling, who had appeared in the audience again. She Googled me after we had our hot makeout session, Roberts explained with a giggle. That started a torrid, scandalous, international love affair that continues to this day. Upon landing in Berlin last month, she walked as swiftly as she could through the exit without making a scene. The airport is really small and old, so you can see through the glass on the other side while youre waiting for your luggage. We did a thing where we stood on either side, pressing the glass with our hands, said Roberts. I exited with my luggage, walked as fast as I could and just hugged her. We were both crying, tears of joy, tears of relief. I tried to videotape it on my phone, but my thumb was over the camera lens the whole time. It was like, this should be an Instagram moment, but f it. I wanted to hug my partner so tightly. No longer separated by a screen, thousands of miles and multiple zones, the couple has settled into a new routine. Mostly, theyre homebodies. Finding a way to adapt to the lack of bars, clubs and overall nightlife, theyre still living on California time, livestreaming their DJ sets to an audience primarily based in the United States. Its a strange schedule, but Roberts says she feels normal again. Im realizing that, for five months, it felt like something was off. Part of me felt like it was missing, because part of me was missing. The love of my life was not there, she said. As an international couple, theyre accustomed to going for long periods of time without seeing one another sometimes a few weeks, or a couple of months. Still, she said, those five months of separation imposed by the travel ban encompassed the longest stretch of time theyd spent apart. Now, Roberts is in Berlin for the next three months possibly longer, if she can acquire an artist visa. She and Gatling hope to get married, though she was quick to specify they want to do so when it doesnt have to be a Zoom wedding. Id like to do it on our own terms, not the terms of a virus, she said, adding that she longs to return to the Bay Area again, too. San Francisco is my home. When nightlife starts opening up again, thats where I need to be. Several other countries throughout Europe have since lifted their travel bans for unmarried couples, including Denmark, Norway, Switzerland, Austria and the Netherlands. Many others have yet to adopt the same measures, though the European Commission has encouraged the E.U. to ease restrictions in all countries. A Change.org petition supporting the same cause spans over 33,000 signatures from couples around the globe, and several Facebook groups continue to advocate for the reunification of unmarried couples and families while serving as an informational resource on travel restriction updates. We will not stop until all binational couples and families are reunited, reads a message from the Couples Separated by Travel Bans group. Amanda Bartlett is an SFGATE culture reporter. Email: amanda.bartlett@sfgate.com | Twitter: @byabartlett Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 00:46:44|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close MOGADISHU, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The UN humanitarian agency on Monday appealed for more funding to enable its partners to scale up relief operations across Somalia. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) also said despite the reduced humanitarian footprint due to the COVID-19 restrictions and the disproportionate funding across clusters, humanitarian partners have ramped up the COVID-19 response across the country. The government has lifted a number of COVID-19 related restrictions on movement in and out of the country, including the opening of international airports in August. Somalia's total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has reached 3,745 as of Sunday. The ministry of health said in a statement the country had recorded zero death the past weeks, making the number of deaths still at 99 while the total number of recovered patients increased to 3,010. According to OCHA, at least 14 percent of the total confirmed cases were reported among health workers, negatively impacting response amid limited health-care services in the country. Enditem LOS ANGELES, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Mayor Eric Garcetti and the City of Los Angeles are partnering with Ritual and PayPal to launch Open For Business a collaboration to help small businesses across L.A. move to contactless transactions, implement touchless payments, and increase their online orders. With COVID-19 remaining a threat to L.A.'s economy and communities, this program will help local small businesses keep their doors open while helping to keep their employees and customers healthy and safe through online ordering, delivery, pickup, and touch-free payments. Through this effort: Ritual will provide its commission-free digital ordering platform Ritual ONE to City of Los Angeles businesses at no cost through the end of the year. businesses at no cost through the end of the year. This includes waiving set-up, monthly subscription, and credit-card processing fees. Businesses are able to opt out at any time without penalty. Additionally, PayPal will provide $1 million towards discounted purchases for customers of participating City of Los Angeles businesses on Ritual ONE, at no expense to the participating businesses. "Small businesses and restaurants are the backbone of our economy, and it's our job to help them navigate the treacherous waters of COVID-19, stay afloat, and ultimately steer us toward a lasting recovery," said Mayor Garcetti. "Getting through this crisis requires us to tap into the power of partnerships with companies like Ritual and PayPal because only through public-private cooperation can we meet our common mission: to save lives and livelihoods across Los Angeles." Ritual's Ritual ONE product provides restaurants and food services, such as grocers, butchers and bakeries, with an easy way to accept digital orders from their own website and social media accounts. QR-code menus and ordering are also available. Customers can choose among pickup, delivery or dine-in. "It's important to Ritual to help Los Angeles businesses stay up and running while keeping everyone safe during this time," said Ritual CEO, Ray Reddy. "Ritual ONE with PayPal and Venmo payment options provide all our favorite restaurants, bakeries and coffee shops the opportunity to easily offer contactless ordering for pickup, delivery or dine-in. We believe local businesses are what make our communities thrive, and we are here to support them as we work with Mayor Garcetti, the City of Los Angeles and PayPal to help kick-start the Los Angeles economy again." Through this partnership, PayPal and Venmo are supporting City of Los Angeles restaurants by offering customers a discount on their eligible orders from Ritual restaurants when they check out with PayPal or Venmo starting Monday, November 2 through November 30, 2020. Terms and limitations apply. "Small businesses are the backbone of the economy and, during the pandemic and beyond, these businesses need to adapt to new ways of serving their customers," said PayPal CEO, Dan Schulman. "PayPal is committed to providing small businesses with new ways to serve their customers and to keep their businesses up and running. We are providing ways for them to not just accept payments but to digitize their operations. Our integration with Ritual and this proactive program with the City of Los Angeles allows us to serve local restaurants in a new way helping these businesses and their communities to thrive in an uncertain time." Open For Business is now signing up local businesses. To learn more about the program and enroll, please visit the Open For Business website www.ritual.co/partners/losangeles. Additional details on how customers can access and participate in the promotional offer will be shared closer to the upcoming launch date. Media Contact: Kerry Metzdorf [email protected] 978-609-0766 Related Images city-of-la-partners-with-ritual.png City of LA partners with Ritual, PayPal on $1M in aid for small businesses Program provides up to $1M in discounts and benefits to help restaurants and other small businesses implement safe, contactless ordering and payments tech, to help businesses survive and thrive during COVID-19. Related Links Ritual Open for Business SOURCE Ritual The Sony Z8H 8K LED TV will be available starting today, October 5. The TV will be available in 85-inches only in India. Sony has launched its 8K TV, the Z8H in India. The TV is priced at Rs 13,99,990. In India, the TV is available in 85-inches only and the official model number of the TV is KD-85Z8H. Considering this is Sonys flagship TV it packs in every piece of technology Sony has to offer under its TV umbrella. It features Sony's X1 Ultimate chip, TRILUMINOS Display and even support for HDMI 2.1 making it compatible with the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Lets take a look at the features of the TV in detail. Sony 85Z8H specifications and features As weve mentioned above, the Sony Z8H is an 8K TV giving the display a resolution of 7680 x 4320. To put things into perspective, a 4K TV has a resolution of 3840 x 2160. So, the 8K TV brings with it 4 times the resolution of a 4K TV. It also packs Sonys TRILUMINOS Display. Powering the TV under the hood is the Sony X1 Ultimate chip. We had a chance to see this chip in action at CES 2020. According to Sony, The X1 Ultimate, picture processor, precisely analyses and processes data to power 8K pictures with four times the resolution of 4K for scenes rich in depth, texture and detail. Even images filmed in 4K and 2K are upscaled close to 8K by 8K X-Reality PRO using a unique 8K database. Resolution of each subject is then optimised by Object-based Super Resolution to reproduce greater depth, textures, and more realistic pictures textures. This means that if you watch 2K or 4K content on the TV, then the processing power of the TV will upscale that content to 8K. How this works is something we will only know when we get our hands on the TV. The Sony Z8H also has full-array backlighting with local dimming. The TV is also ready for PS5. The PS5 boasts of support for up to 8K which we think will mostly be for video output to support streaming services as and when they start streaming content in 8K. However, the Sony Z8H is ready for the PS5 in other ways and that is all thanks to HDMI 2.1. With HDMI 2.1 support on the TV and the PS5, users will be able to take advantage of features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), support for up to 120fps, and more. The Sony 8K TV runs on the Android TV platform and comes with access to the Google Play Store. You also have access to all popular streaming services built-in including Disney+ Hotstar, Netflix, Prime Video, Voot, ZEE5 and more. The TV also supports AirPlay so you can consume content from Apple TV+, provided you have an iOS or macOS device to AirPlay from. Just like the Sony A9G (review), you can talk to the Sony Z8H as it features built-in far-field mics. So, you can control the functions of the TV without resorting to the remote control. Sonys X-Wide Angle is another feature making an appearance on the TV. We saw this feature last year on the Sony X9500G (review). Put simply, this is a layer on the display to help with wide viewing angles. When it comes to audio, the Z8H has Sonys Acoustic Multi-Audio. This makes it feel as though the sound is coming directly from the screen. The TV can also be used as the centre speaker in a home theatre setup. In addition to 8K, the TV also supports HDR 10, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. The TV also comes with a new backlit remote control. Sony Z8H Price and Availability The Sony Z8H will be available across Sony retail stores (Sony Center and Sony Exclusive), www.ShopatSC.com portal, major electronic stores and e-commerce websites in India from 5th October 2020. The TV is priced at Rs 13,99,990 only. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin -- (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 6 2020 State pharmaceutical holding company PT Bio Farma is working closely with the Office of the Vice President to ensure that the COVID-19 vaccine it is currently involved in developing gets clearance from religious authorities such as the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) to be used for a mass vaccination drive. Bio Farma president director Honesti Basyir said Vice President Ma'ruf Amin, especially in his capacity as non-active chairman of MUI, would have a key role in deciding if the COVID-19 vaccine could pass the religious test. "So far what we hear from the vice president is encouraging. If it is halal, then it will be better but if not, he said it should be alright given the [emergency situation during] the pandemic," Honesti said as quoted by Antara news agency. Honesti was responding to questions from lawmakers during a hearing with House of Representatives Commission VI overseeing industry and trade. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login Unaccompanied child refugees in Calais are being placed in adult accommodation centres where they face an unprecedented risk of abuse, charities warn. Hundreds of children sleeping rough in northern France in the hope of reaching the UK are finding it increasingly difficult to access food, water and information on their rights due to a ramping up of police hostility in recent months. A rise in the number of unaccompanied minors in the Calais region has meant a state-run emergency shelter designed to provide respite for these youngsters is now often full to capacity, leaving them with no option but to sleep on the streets, The Independent was told as part of an investigation funded by our Supporter Programme. More than 250 unaccompanied children were recorded in Calais during the month of August, some as young as 11. Charities on the ground said this was likely to be an underestimate due to the difficulty locating minors as a result of the frequent evictions. In some cases, during large-scale evictions, children are transported by the French authorities to accommodation centres designed for adults, according to charity workers, who warn that this is fuelling the risk of exploitation and the potential for them to be lured in by smuggling gangs. How to support truly independent investigations This article was funded by our supporters. If you would like to see more of this important work, please make a contribution at independent.co.uk/donations They said there was a clear lack of specialised identification of minors by the French authorities, who they said have a duty to protect these children during evictions yet do not always enact their responsibilities to identify minors prior to evictions taking place. Claudia Tomarchio, project manager of the Refugee Youth Service, a group supporting unaccompanied child asylum seekers in northern France, said it was becoming extremely difficult for charities to safeguard youngsters. There are continuous evictions, big ones. Minors are never informed beforehand and not given the possibility to decide if they want to access a centre for minors. They find themselves having to move their stuff and deal with the police without being able to explain that theyre children, she said. Because of these continuous evictions, everybody is now more scattered around whereas before there were fewer sites and it was easier for us to meet people and keep track of the children in the camp. Many are sent to adult centres, usually without their rights being explained to them, with no translators present. This puts them in danger. Child safeguarding is not there anymore. You put them with people who could potentially be smugglers and could exploit them. As winter approaches, Ms Tomarchio said the risks would only grow: The suppression keeps getting worse by day. Winter is coming. These children are not protected, they will keep sleeping rough. There is a heightened risk of exploitation and of being trafficked. There has been a sharp rise Channel crossings from asylum seekers gathered in northern France this year, with more than 7,000 migrants estimated to have attempted the journey. September was the busiest month yet. Antoine Nehr, from Utopia, a charity that supports asylum seekers sleeping rough in the region, said there had been an increase in unaccompanied minors in recent months, with some as young as 11. He explained that a centre in the Calais region where unaccompanied children can access shelter and support, known as Saint Omer, which has the capacity to accommodate 80 minors, was now often full to capacity meaning children were forced to sleep on the streets. Its always been awful for kids here, but now the general situation is getting worse and worse. Its more difficult to access services and their rights. It exposes them to exploitation by other adults, and they face aggression from the police, he said. They are lost. They face a lot of difficulty accessing food, water, information, and to their rights. Many lose battery on their phone, so its harder for us to stay in touch. This is the worst Ive seen the situation for minors here. Emmanuel, 17, who fled his home country Sudan in 2016 and has been in Calais since June, told The Independent that on numerous occasions he had tried to go to Saint Omer, but been turned away because there was no space. Im sleeping on the streets. I wake up and my body is in pain. I have a headache, but theres no medicine. Theres nowhere else to go, he said. The teenager said he had told police officers numerous times that he was under 18, but they still acted aggressively towards him. Emmanuel, 17, said that on numerous occasions he had tried to go to the childrens centre but been turned away because there was no space (May Bulman) Police always catch us. They take our things. They use tear gas and it hurts our eyes. I tell them my age but they say I have to stay in a prison for 24 hours. Ive been there five or six times, he said. Ellen Ackroyd, field manager at Help Refugees, said: In both Calais and Dunkirk areas, as well as in other locations along the French-UK border, unaccompanied children are in danger, surviving in highly dispersed informal settlements, and lacking access to basic needs such as drinking water, food and medical care. The perpetual and often violent evictions create an extremely hostile environment, and force these children to be constantly on the move. Rather than being treated as the children they are, they are left unable to access information about their rights, protection actors and child protection services. The situation is compounded by the dearth of legal routes for unaccompanied children to reach the UK, with the Dubs Amendment having ended in May and the family reunion route under Dublin beset with delays and set to end on 31 December when the Brexit transition period ends. Lord Alf Dubs, a peer and former child refugee who created the Dubs Amendment, said the absence of legal routes to the UK for these children allowed people traffickers to simply take advantage. He added: We should process all the children with relatives in the UK right away. And we should speed up the process of taking vulnerable unaccompanied minors. Its awful, theyre just hanging about there. They have police coming and confiscating their tents and sleeping bags. Its awful. Recommended Final bid to force Boris Johnson to let child refugees reunite with relatives in UK A Home Office spokesperson said: France is a safe country, where those seeking refuge can and should claim asylum. There is also a range of legal pathways to seeking protection in the UK and we will continue to provide safe and legal routes in the future. Our asylum applications from unaccompanied children accounted for approximately 20 per cent of all such claims made in the EU and the UK last year. We remain fully committed to meeting our obligations under the Dublin Regulation during the transition period, including the family reunion of asylum seekers in Europe with eligible family in the UK." The French authorities have been approached for comment. This article was funded by our supporters. If you would like to see more of this important work, please make a contribution A Coldstream Guard has been demoted from a Lance Sergeant to a Guardsman at a court martial after he allegedly told a Muslim colleague he 'loved,' the New Zealand mosque attack that saw a gunman kill 51 worshipers in March 2019. Lance Sergeant Derek McHugh, 37, was working in the guard room at Victoria Barracks in Windsor when it was said he told Corporal Momodou Sonko he was happy that Muslims had been 'butchered,' just 10 days after the brutal attacks in Christchurch. He was accused of calling Corp Sonko a 'Muslim b******' before voicing admiration for the white supremacist who carried out the attack. When confronted, L/Sgt McHugh admitted he didn't like Islamic culture and told Royal Military Police officers he 'didn't see what was wrong with that'. A court martial today heard how McHugh disputed the words that the words were used, but 'accepts that he doesn't like Muslims'. Lance Sergeant Derek McHugh, 37, has been demoted following a court martial hearing today, he allegedly told a colleague he was happy to see Muslims 'butchered,' in an attack on mosques in New Zealand last March After being found guilty of two charges of using racially aggravated threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour, he was today reduced by three ranks to the lowest rank of Guardsman. During the trial Corporal Sonko had said he was working as guard commander at Victoria Barracks on March 25 2019, when a letter was delivered that needed to be passed to the medical centre. Because the guardroom was only a few hundred metres from Windsor Castle, one of the Queen's residences, any post was subject to intense scrutiny. Cpl Momodou Sonko told the court racism was 'like drinking water' to the veteran Coldstream Guard Cpl Sonko began to question the woman who had delivered the letter but L/Sgt McHugh interrupted and told him to 'just leave it'. Cpl Sonko told the court: 'Immediately after [the woman left] I was sat doing work on my screen and from nowhere, I heard 'you f***** Muslim b******.' The Gambian-born soldier, who was attached to 1 Rifles said he ignored the comment, as he had heard L/Sgt McHugh make similar statements numerous times before. He told the court racism was 'like drinking water' to the veteran Coldstream Guard and he would regularly use 'derogatory' language about minorities. Bulford Military Court, Wilts, heard that a few moments later, L/Sgt McHugh stood up and pretended to hold a rifle while saying 'I love the way that man just went into the mosque and...' before pretending to shoot. In 2019 51 people were killed and 40 injured in two shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand during Friday prayer. The gunman was 28-year-old Brenton Harrison Tarrant, from Australia. The attacker, described as a 'white supremacist' and member of the 'alt right' live-streamed the shooting on Facebook and published an online manifesto. A court martial today heard Coldstream Guard McHugh accepted that he 'doesn't like Muslims' Prosecuting, Solomon Hartley said: '[McHugh] doesn't accept the exact words but he accepts that he doesn't like Muslims. 'He doesn't like Muslim culture and says he has a right to feel that way and to express that view. 'He says his view of the culture was formed during tours overseas and his son was almost blown up in the Manchester terrorist attack.' The altercation came in a guardroom just a few hundred metres from Windsor Castle last year Cpl Sonko told the court he asked McHugh to stop, adding: 'I told him that is enough. He didn't say anything. He was just concentrating on the computer but immediately after he giggled and left the room. 'He was saying 'I am happy your fellow Muslims were butchered'. I had to think about reporting the matter.' Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Rizki Fachriansyah (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 17:29 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4935169 1 National National-Police,police-telegram,omnibus-bill-on-job-creation,RUU-cilaka,RUU-cipta-kerja,protests,strike,controversy Free The National Police have issued a telegram urging every regional police department to participate in the effort to maintain control over any protests surrounding the final deliberation of the controversial omnibus bill on job creation. The telegram, issued on Friday under the name of National Police chief Gen. Idham Azis, lists a number of instructions on the monitoring of dissent, including by carrying out cyber patrols on social media and "media management" to propagate negative sentiment regarding workers strikes and public protests in a bid to discourage public support and participation. Create a counter-narrative against issues that discredit the government, said one of the provisions of the telegram, a copy of which made the rounds on social media on Monday. Furthermore, the police have also called for early intelligence gathering to detect opposition within labor groups and the general public to prevent mass protests, claiming that such events could lead to anarchy and social conflicts in regions across the country. National Police spokesperson Argo Yuwono confirmed the authenticity of the internal document, saying that it was issued with the peoples best interests in mind, given the inherent health risks of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Read also: Jakarta braces for large protests as House rushes jobs bill to final stage Yes, the telegram [was issued], Argo said in a written statement published on the National Polices official website on Monday. As chief Idham has said, public safety constitutes the highest law amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the right to publicly voice ones aspirations is guaranteed under the 1998 Law on freedom of speech, Argo said public activities such as mass protests would most likely attract large crowds and increase the risk of virus transmission among the public. Therefore, the National Police prohibit demonstrations or any activities that could attract crowds, in order to curb the spread of COVID-19, Argo said. In regard to the cyber patrols, he said such an initiative was crucial to prevent the spread of disinformation. Social media users have raised concerns over state authoritarianism as the digital copy of the telegram has made the rounds on various platforms, with many expressing fears for their right to voice their opinion on the controversy. As of the time of writing, the hashtag #BatalkanOmnibusLaw (cancel the omnibus law) was trending on Twitter. Read also: Govt expects omnibus bill to improve foreign investment, economic growth in 2021 In response to the latest turn of events, the head of the Indonesian Legal Aid Foundations (YLBHI) advocacy division, M. Isnur, called on President Joko Jokowi Widodo and Idham to respect the 1945 Constitution, which guarantees free speech. He pointed to the polices hypocrisy in using the pretext of the current health crisis to prevent mass protests against the bill, while also being lenient toward crowds in public spaces, such as offices. The police have never charged any business owners or state officials who still require their employees to work at the office under Article 93 of the Quarantine Law, Isnur said in a statement as quoted by kompas.com. Labor unions and civil rights groups across the country have pledged to stage large-scale protests and strikes from Monday to Thursday to voice their opposition to the contentious omnibus bill on job creation after lawmakers and the government agreed on Sunday to pass the bill into law. The House of Representatives plans to pass the bill in Mondays plenary session. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday gave 'Vote of Thanks' on President's Speech at the start of Budget Session on January 31. Day 6 of the Budget Session in the Parliament started peacefully as several leaders of Opposition participated peacefully in Question Hour. However, the budget session is also expected to face ruckus as opposition plans to call out the government on non-fulfilment of budgetary promises made in Union Budget 2016-17. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley will try to move a bill related to demonetisation. Here are the live updates: #6:15pm: Rajya Sabha adjourned till 11 am tomorrow #3:10PM: Congress issues a three-line whip to its Rajya Sabha members; asking them to be present in the House for last three days. #2:55PM: BJP issues a three-line whip to its Rajya Sabha members; asking them to be present in the House for last three days #2:50PM:There's a decorum to give leader of House a patient hearing, but unfortunately Cong can't digest fact that ppl have rejected them: V Naidu #2:45PM:Very revengeful reply, quite an arrogant reply, he(PM) could have use this opportunity to present vision for country: Veerappa Moily, Cong #2:45PM:The way they were making personal remarks on PM,it's unbecoming of a party that has ruled nation;I really feel sorry for them-Venkaiah Naidu #2:30PM:Those in govt in UP is responsible, we were not government in UP, how can we be blamed for what happens in UP: MoS Home, Kiren Rijiju #2:00PM: Lok Sabha adjourned till 3 PM. #2:00PM: Motion of Thanks to President's Address adopted by Lok Sabha; Congress members stage a walkout #12:15PM onwards: PM Modi give Vote of Thanks in Lok Sabha - Surgical strike was a big decision but none is questioning about it like they do about demonetisation: PM Modi in LS - Budget 2017 is benefiting 96% of the population: PM Modi in LS - Crop insurance was in existence earlier also, but farmers didn't want to avail it; It didn't secure the rights of farmers: PM Modi in LS - Why was it that there were crop insurance schemes earlier but farmers were not keen to avail the benefits?: PM Modi in LS - It is time to think about having LS and RS elections together; I know everybody will face some problems: PM Modi in LS - Now, middlemen no longer enjoy the benefits they did after we stopped the corruption and loot: PM Narendra Modi - 22 lakhs 27 thousand houses were constructed in one year: PM Narendra Modi in Lok Sabha - Didn't know that campaign against corruption will unleash this storm against me; PM Modi in LS - This is the govt which fights against corruption, 84 schemes under 17 ministeries have been linked with direct transfer: PM in LS - Our government laid out optical fibre in 76,000 villages: PM in LS - Our government increased the road infrastructure exponetially, used space technology to build road: PM Modi in LS - UPA made 1035 changes in MNREGA, but why? - Several people wrote to me to dismiss order for compulsory PAN number for jewellery purchase over Rs 2Lakh - Like Swachh Bharat, the decision on demonetisation is a movement to clean India (from corruption and black money): PM Modi in LS - When can you have an operation? When body is healthy; Economy was doing well & thus our decision was taken at right time: PM - For demonetisation, good economy was needed & hence, this was a proper time: PM Modi - We are (Modi Govt) not worried for elections, we worry for the nation: PM Modi in LS - One section of India which is looting poor of the country, this is reason India is not reaching the heights of development: PM Modi in LS - It does not matter how big you are, you will have to give back what belongs to the poor; My fight is for the poor: PM Modi in LS - We were ready for discussion, but instead of discussion you(opposition) were more concerned about giving TV bytes: PM on House disruptions - In UPA times, the conversation was about how much went out of India, now the question is how much we brought back: PM Modi on demonetisation - Budget time was changed in Atalji's time, and it has been changed now: PM Modi on pre-ponement of budget - I was surprised that there were some who made cleanliness also a political issue. Why can't we work together on ushering a Swachh Bharat: PM - I had said it from the Red Fort- every Prime Minister has contributed to the nation: PM Modi in the Lok Sabha - PM Modi replies on Kharge's remarks in LS: 'People like me who could not die for nation are living and serving India' - Somewhere on the way, 'Jan Shakti' was forgotten; We don't accept this: PM Modi in Lok Sabha - There are many people like me, who couldn't die for nation during the freedom struggle but we are living for India & serving India: PM in LS - Independence was not earned by the sacrifice of one family; Azad and Bhagat Singh also sacrificed their lives - Recognise the potential of people power, result will be good - When people try to look for politeness in SCAM then even Mother Earth gets upset - Central government is in touch with state authorities, all facilities will be provided - PM Modi takes jibe at Rahul Gandhi, says finally earthquake shook India #12:10pm: Statement by MoS Home, Kiren Rijiju in LS replying to a question on communal incidents. In UP 162 incidents in 2016, 155 in 2015 Statement by MoS Home, Kiren Rijiju in LS replying to a question on communal incidents. In UP 162 incidents in 2016, 155 in 2015. pic.twitter.com/WfzXl8mx2N ANI (@ANI_news) February 7, 2017 #11:55AM: PM Narendra Modi to reply to debate on motion of thanks to President's address, in Lok Sabha, at 12:00 PM Delhi: Kerala MPs stage a protest in front of Gandhi statue inside Parliament House complex, demanding sufficient food allocation to Kerala. pic.twitter.com/hGWauvSgYM ANI (@ANI_news) February 7, 2017 #10:45AM: TMC MPs protesting in front of Mahatma Gandhi statue inside Parliament House complex for electoral reform & state-funding of elections #10:30PM : BJP Parliamentary meets ends #9:50AM : Delhi: PM Narendra Modi arrives for BJP parliamentary party meeting; Meeting begins. #TMC MPs to hold dharna in front of Mahatma Gandhi statue inside Parliament House complex for electoral reform and state-funding of elections-AITC #PM Narendra Modi to reply to Presidential speech in Lok Sabha, today The budget session started on January 31. On day 1, President Mukherjee opened the session with ceremonial speech defining the Modi Govts achievements during the term, while Finance Minister presented Economic survey. On Day 2 February 1, Jaitley presented the Union Budget 2017-18. Although the day started at an unfortunate note, as sitting MP EAhamed passed away that day early in morning, casting a cloud of confusion over the postponement of the budget. However, the budget was presented after two minutes silence. February 2, Day 3 of the budget session in Lok Sabha was however suspended as an homage to the deceased MP. Day 4 of the budget session remained in limbo as it was marked with several adjournments. On Day 5 Monday, the House saw frequent disruptions as the Opposition demanded a probe into the manner in which the death of Ahamed was handled by the government, alleging that he had died soon after being rushed to the hospital but it was announced much later. Congress leader Kharge also made a controversial remark regarding the patriotism on the ruling party, which was soon expunged by Lok Sabha Speaker. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Advertisement Cardinal George Pell has enjoyed a refreshing iced drink with a younger colleague at a cafe in Rome after making his first trip to the city since he was jailed and then exonerated of child sex abuse charges. The 79-year-old - whose convictions for sexually assaulting two choirboys in the 1990s were quashed by Australia's High Court in April - flew into the Italian capital on Wednesday. The former archbishop of Melbourne does not yet have a meeting scheduled with Pope Francis, according to a Vatican spokesman. Pell on Sunday was pictured dressed in clerical clothing as he sat with the colleague in a restaurant's outdoor seating area in the Italian capital. Cardinal George Pell has a drink with a younger colleague at a cafe in Rome as he made his first return to the Italian city since his child sex abuse convictions were quashed The reason for Pell's exemption to leave Australia remains unclear. Australians must have compassionate personal reasons or be travelling on official business to leave the country Pell was dressed in clerical clothing as he sat with his colleague in a restaurant's outdoor seating area in the Italian capital Pell pictured at the cafe on Sunday. He returned to Rome after he left the Vatican in 2017 to defend himself in an Australian court from false accusations of sexual abuses The reason for his trip to Rome remains unclear but he said shortly after his release from jail he would at some point return to the city to pack up his apartment. A Pell aide said his stay in Rome was a 'private visit'. At their last face-to-face meeting in June 2017, Pope Francis gave Pell an extended period of leave to return to Australia and clear his name, amid false accusations he molested two choirboys in the 1990s. Last week, Pell was furiously heckled by a woman outside his apartment in Rome. 'We hate you, we hate you,' the woman from Melbourne said as Pell entered the apartment building. Experts on the workings of the tiny city state said a reunion between the head of the Roman Catholic Church and the man he once appointed as his trusted anti-corruption tsar was inevitable. 'He will meet Francis. He'll do it as a free man,' Italy's Repubblica newspaper said. 'It will be Pell's chance for a redress, after many in the Vatican rejoiced at his removal.' Pell is pictured seated in front of a giant ice cream cone in an otherwise quiet seating area with his colleague on Sunday Pell wore a face mask but said nothing to the waiting media pack as he landed in Rome on Wednesday Pell was convicted in December 2018 of sexually abusing the boys when he was the archbishop of Melbourne. He strenuously denied the charges and the High Court in Australia overturned his conviction in April this year after hearing his second appeal. The former Vatican treasurer spent more than a year in prison. Under coronavirus travel restrictions, Australians are barred from leaving the country except for official business or compassionate personal reasons. It was not known on what condition Pell was granted an exemption. Pell boarded a plane bound for Rome on one of the last flights leaving Sydney International Airport on Tuesday night. NSW Police officers are believed to have escorted Pell through the airport terminal via a lower ground entrance different to the one used by the public to avoid the waiting media, Nine News reported. This aerial view provided on Oct.4, 2020 by the Alpes Maritimes region fire brigade show a house keeping a fragile balance on a hill while a rive floods on Oct.3. 2020 near La Vesubie, southern France. (SDIS 06 via AP) Floods That Hit Italy, France Leave at Least 9 People Dead, Over a Dozen Still Missing PARISA womans body was discovered Monday in the Mediterranean Sea, bringing to at least nine the number of people killed in severe mountain flooding at the border between France and Italy. Up to 20 others were feared missing in the devastation. In Italy, rescuers recovered her body in the sea by the Ligurian province of Imperia. Five other bodies, all men, were found Sunday in the sea near San Remo, on the beach in the Italian border town of Ventimiglia and along the Imperia coast. The identities of the latest victims and the circumstances of their disappearances were not known. In this image made available on Oct. 4, 2020, a firefighters helicopter flies over flooding in the town of Ornavasso, in the northern Italian region of Piedmont. (Firefighter Vigili del Fuoco via AP) Flooding has devastated mountainous areas in Frances southeastern region of Alpes-Maritimes and Italys northwestern regions of Liguria and Piedmont, after a storm swept through the two countries on Friday and Saturday. In France, firefighters in the Alpes-Maritimes region were still searching Monday for at least eight people missing who witnesses described as possibly being carried off by floodwaters. They include two firefighters whose vehicle fell into the water as the road collapsed. In addition, French rescuers are seeking to locate 12 other people whose families have not heard of them since the storm, which blocked roads and cut off communications. French rescuers on Sunday found the body of a man whose car had been washed away by a torrent in Saint-Martin-Vesubie, one of the hardest-hit villages, where several houses and a bridge were destroyed by raging water. In this image made available on Oct. 4, 2020, firefighters fly over flooding in the town of Ornavasso, in the northern Italian region of Piedmont. (Firefighter Vigili del Fuoco via AP) Authorities also found the body of a shepherd who had disappeared in the mountains between France and Italy. A firefighter also died last week in the border region of Valle dAosta. The flooding has put additional stress on regions coping with the COVID-19 pandemic. The governors of both Liguria and Piedmont have asked the Italian government for emergency aid. Floods in Italy have often turned into emergencies in recent years due to the lack of routine maintenance in clearing rivers and waterways due to budget cuts. Italys finance minister, Roberto Gualtieri, told RAI state television that recovery funds for economic damage from the pandemic should also go to the environment, adding there will be additional investments. Epoch Times staff contributed to this report. MIDDLETOWN Once called one of the Ten Most Influential Women of Middletown, 106-year-old Ann Ross lived through two deadly pandemics, two world wars, two bouts of breast cancer, the Great Depression, and everything later and in between. Through it all, shes been a positive and inspiring force, a spiritual and spirited woman, full of fun and enthusiasm, L.E. Agnelli, director of recreation at Wadsworth Glen Health Care Center in Middletown, said in a press release. Born to English immigrants in Pawtucket, R.I., Maude Ann Smith was born Sept. 23, 1914. She fell in love, married Harvey Ross, and adored her husband from the day they married until the day he died, Agnelli said. He was a nice man, my Harvey. A good man, Ross said. Because of her husbands job at Pratt & Whitney, the couple settled in Connecticut, where Ann Ross found community with the Trinity Congregational Church. The couple has a daughter, Laurel Ross. Love of family and her faith have always been most important to her, Agnelli said. Ann Ross granddaughter, Anne Connelly, said her Nana worked tirelessly for the Trinity Church and was instrumental in finding homes for Vietnam refugees, Agnelli said. My Nana was always a crafty woman. She started out in the basement of her home. She had all these woman who started these ABCs ... a craft project designed to help babies learn their alphabet, these hanging felt pockets had letters on the front and clues in the pockets, as in A is for Apple, B is for Boy ... Anne Connelly said. They made a lot of money for the church, her granddaughter said. My grandmother is extraordinarily spiritual. We used to gaze at the nighttime sky, and I told her the brightest star was the planet Venus. We made a habit of always looking for Venus at night. In Middletown, Ann Ross was at one time on the Board of Transportation but she refused the free bus ticket. She also loved Bassett Hounds, and owned one as did her parents. She became friendly with Scot Haney of Channel 3 news, and every year he mentions his friends birthday, Agnelli said. Once she moved into Wadsworth Glen Health Care Center six years ago, Ann Ross became a quick favorite with one and all, Agnelli said. Quick to laugh, always giving a kind word, staff and residents quickly grew to love this sweet, spunky lady whose preferred activities are crafting and music. If you have to live in a place like this, this is the place to be, Ann Ross tells people, with a laugh. Her recent tea party birthday luncheon was attended by 15 masked, socially-distanced friends at Wadsworth Glen, with music, tea sandwiches, and cake. Ann was once asked, What excites you? Agnelli said. She replied: Everything! Flash U.S. President Donald Trump, who is in hospital for COVID-19 treatment, could be discharged as early as Monday, one of his doctors said on Sunday. "He has been up and around. Our plan today is to have him eat and drink, be up out of bed," Brian Garibaldi, a member of Trump's medical team, briefed reporters from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Garibaldi said if the president "continues to look and feel as well as he does today, our hope is that we can plan for a discharge as early as tomorrow to the White House where he can continue his treatment course." Trump was first diagnosed with COVID-19 on Thursday and moved to Walter Reed on Friday, where he is using Remdesivir, a COVID-19 drug made by the U.S. biopharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences, as a treatment. The president also received a dose of an experimental antibody cocktail being developed by U.S. drug maker Regeneron. White House physician Sean Conley disclosed on Saturday that Trump, whose condition "has continued to improve," had additionally been given a dose of dexamethasone, a steroid that is used to reduce inflammation. "Over the course of his illness, the president has experienced two episodes of transient drops in his oxygen saturation. We debated the reasons for this, and whether we'd even intervene," Conley said. "It was a determination of the team based predominantly on the timeline from the initial diagnosis that we initiate dexamethasone." The doctor also confirmed that Trump was given supplemental oxygen on Friday before he was flown to hospital. "Late Friday morning when I returned to the bedside, the president had a high fever and his oxygen saturation was transiently dipping below 94 percent," he said. "Given these developments I was concerned for possible rapid progression of the illness. I recommended the president we try supplemental oxygen, see how he would respond." When pressed by reporters why it took him so long to reveal that information, Conley said that he was trying to "reflect the upbeat attitude" that the team and president have had over the course of his illness. "I didn't want to give any information that might steer the course of illness in another direction, and in doing so it came off that we were trying to hide something, which wasn't necessarily true," he added. In a video clip posted on Twitter on Saturday, Trump said he is feeling "much better" but acknowledged that "the next period of a few days" is "the real test." Ireland faces a return to a strict nationwide lockdown after the countrys health chiefs recommended a dramatic tightening of restrictions in response to surging coronavirus cases. The Irish chief medical officer and National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) called for the nation to enter Level 5 - the most severe in the government's coronavirus plan - after recording its highest number of daily cases since late April on Saturday. Under a Level 5, the public would be asked to stay within three miles of their homes. Non-essential shops would close, but schools would remain open. One proposal is the country would remain under the strict lockdown measures for a period of four weeks. The leaders of Irelands three coalition parties are to meet with chief medical officer Dr Tony Holahan on Monday to discuss the next steps. Most of Ireland is currently at Level 2, while Dublin and Donegal are on Level 3. The call for enhanced restrictions was in part prompted by a fear that the country is on course to see up to 2,000 cases a day by November, with intensive care units at risk of being overstretched if stricter measures are not adopted. Dr Mary Favier, former president of the Irish College of General Practitioners, said: The reality is that if things keep going as they are, if you or I had a bad road traffic accident in November or needed emergency cardiac surgery, there might not be an intensive care bed. But while Dr Holahan and the NPHET have recommended ramping up restrictions, concerns have also been raised by other health officials about the wider impact of a new national lockdown. The chief executive of Ireland's health service, Paul Reid, said the impact on mental health and the economy should not be overlooked. There's obvious concerns about the trends on Covid-19. But we also know the impacts of severe & regular restrictions in society on the public health, wellbeing, mental health and the economy, he tweeted. Level 5 recommendation to government has to be considered in this context too. And one unnamed minister told The Irish Times: My worry is people wont accept it. People have just had it. They find these restrictions very difficult; not to have some limited form of human contact. People pass the Auld Dubliner pub in Dublin, which is currently under Level 3 - which means only restaurants and pubs with outdoor facilities are permitted to open (PA) Irelands 14-day cumulative case total stands at 104.6 per 100,000 people, the 14th highest infection rate out of 31 European countries monitored by the European Centre for Disease Control. Tighter restrictions are being introduced in many parts of Europe amid fears of a second wave of Covid-19, but no country has yet entered a second full national lockdown. Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Show all 29 1 /29 Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Saudi Arabia An eerie emptiness enveloped the sacred Kaaba in Mecca's Grand Mosque, Islam's holiest site, where attendance at Friday prayers was hit by measures to protect against coronavirus AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world China An empty street in Wuhan. Hubei will relax travel restrictions to allow healthy people to move within the hard-hit province AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Thailand The Legend Siam theme park, usually attracts up to 20,000, mainly Chinese customers, a day in the high season, is temporarily closed due to the lack of visitors during the coronavirus outbreak AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Italy An empty Piazza Duomo in Milan Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world US Aerial photo shows the Covid-19 isolation and monitoring site, where the first patient Joey Camp is being isolated at Hard Labor Creek State Park, about 50 miles east of Atlanta Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Spain Aerial view taken of the Ipurua stadium in Eibar while the Spanish league football match SD Eibar against Real Sociedad is played behind closed doors in light of the coronavirus outbreak AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Albania An aerial view of empty Tirana's outer ring. Albania has stepped up measures to contain the spread of Covid-19 caused by the novel coronavirus and banned circulation of all cars (except ambulances and supplies) for 3 days and urged people to stay home as the number of infected people increased to 33 AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Iraq An empty cafe during a curfew imposed by Iraqi Kurdish authorities, following the outbreak of coronavirus, near the castle in the old city of Erbil Reuters Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world South Korea An aerial view shows hygiene officials riding a vehicle disinfecting public buses at a depot in Gwangju EPA Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Belgium A woman runs though the nearly empty historic center of Antwerp AP Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world China Jingyue bridge, spanning the Yangtze river, leading to Hubei province AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Vietnam Formula One Vietnam Grand Prix race track in Hanoi AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Spain Restaurant terraces remain closed at the usually overcrowded Plaza Mayor in central Madrid AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Thailand Tourist buses parked on a lot near Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Poland An aerial view of Jagiellonian University's new campus during the 2 weeks closure of universities, schools, museums and other public facilities in Krakow Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Italy A canal and the roads next to it are seen completely empty in Venice Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Greece An aerial view taken with a drone showing the yard of an empty school at Nafplio, Peloponnese EPA Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Saudi Arabia An aerial view shows an empty white-tiled area surrounding the Kaaba in Mecca's Grand Mosque AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Italy Rome's office district EUR, at what would have otherwise been rush hour, virtually empty after a government decree has limited circulation AP Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Italy Galleria Vittorio Emanuele in Milan Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Thailand Legend Siam theme park in Pattaya AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Belgium Empty shelves in a supermarket in Brussels AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Iran A satellite view shows Tehran airport Maxar Technologies via Reuters Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Italy The deserted Via Manzoni street in Milan Reuters Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Saudi Arabia AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Italy An empty street and canal in Venice Reuters Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Thailand An aerial photo shows unused tourist buses parked on a lot near Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world China An almost empty street in Wuhan AFP via Getty Coronavirus: Empty streets across the world Poland A view of the deserted Krakowskie Przedmiescie and tahe Old Town Square in Warsaw EPA Paris, for example, will see all of its bars shut from 6 October for two weeks. In the Spanish capital, Madrid, authorities have introduced renewed curbs on people leaving their local area for anything other than work, school or medical care. And across Italy, nightclubs have been closed and face masks must be worn from 6pm to 6am in public spaces. Additional reporting by agencies. Worshippers have returned to Mecca after Saudi authorities partially resumed the year-round umrah pilgrimage after seven-month coronavirus hiatus. Millions of Muslims from around the world usually descend on Saudi Arabia for the umrah and haj Islamic pilgrimages. The two share common rites, but the haj, held once a year, is the main lengthier ritual that is a once-in-a-lifetime duty for Muslims. The umrah, the pilgrimage that can be undertaken at any time, was suspended in March due to the coronavirus pandemic. Saudi Arabia hosted a drastically reduced haj in late July for the first time in modern history, with a few thousand domestic pilgrims instead of the usual sea of some three million Muslims Worshippers have returned to Mecca after Saudi authorities partially resumed the year-round umrah pilgrimage on Sunday At midnight, small groups of registered pilgrims wearing face masks were pictured preparing to enter the Grand Mosque while socially distancing But Saudi Arabia partially lifted the coronavirus ban on Sunday and is allowing citizens and residents to start performing umrah at 30 per cent capacity. Some 6,000 pilgrims each day can perform the umrah 'meticulously and within a specified period of time', Saudi Hajj Minister Mohammad Benten said. At midnight, registered pilgrims wearing face masks were pictured preparing to enter the Grand Mosque in small groups, while officials ensured they adhered to social distancing. Worshippers circled the Kaaba, a stone structure that is the most sacred in Islam and the direction which Muslims face to pray. But they are no longer allowed to touch the Kaaba, which is draped in black cloth adorned with Arabic calligraphy in gold. In coronavirus safety measures, the Grand Mosque will also be sterilised before and after each group of worshippers enter. Each group of 20 or 25 pilgrims will be accompanied by a health worker and medical teams will be on the ground in case of an emergency. Speaking about the partial lifting of the ban, Yasser al-Zahrani said: 'All of Mecca is happy today, it's like the end of a jail term. We have missed the spiritual feeling of pilgrims roaming the city. Zahrani became a full time Uber driver after losing his construction job during the three-month national lockdown imposed in March. He said: 'It was a nightmare ... there was barely any work to cover my bills.' Some 6,000 pilgrims are allowed each day to perform the umrah 'meticulously and within a specified period of time', Saudi Hajj Minister Mohammad Benten said From October 18, a second stage will allow the number of umrah pilgrims to be increased to 15,000 per day Many businesses were forced to close amid the pandemic, with more than 1,300 hotels and hundreds of stores normally catering to pilgrims visiting the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. Zahrani said: 'It is hard to think that this will be the new normal, I pray every day for the corona to end.' Economists have estimated Mecca's hotel sector may lose at least 40% of pilgrimage-driven income this year. Five hotel workers, who declined to be identified, said they were put on unpaid leave during the lockdown and said hundreds of others in the hospitality sector were laid off. But from October 18, a second stage will allow the number of umrah pilgrims to be increased to 15,000 per day. A maximum of 40,000 people, including pilgrims and other worshippers, will be allowed to perform prayers at the mosque. Visitors from abroad will be permitted in the third stage from November 1, when capacity will be raised to 20,000 and 60,000, respectively. The decision to resume the pilgrimage was in response to the 'aspirations of Muslims home and abroad' to perform the ritual and visit the holy sites, the interior ministry said last month. It added that the umrah would be allowed to return to full capacity once the threat of the pandemic has abated. Coronavirus safety measures mean worshippers are no longer allowed to touch the Kaaba, which is draped in black cloth adorned with Arabic calligraphy in gold Saudi Arabia hosted a reduced haj in late July for the first time in modern history, with a few thousand domestic pilgrims instead of the usual three million Muslims Until then, the health ministry will vet countries from which pilgrims are allowed to enter based on the health risks. Saudi Arabia had suspended the umrah in March and scaled back the annual hajj over fears that the coronavirus could spread to Islam's holiest cities. The hajj went ahead in late July, on the smallest scale in modern history, with only up to 10,000 Muslims allowed to take part - a far cry from the 2.5million who participated last year. Pilgrimage is the backbone of a plan to expand tourism under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's drive to diversify the economy of the world's top oil exporter. It aimed to boost umrah visitors to 15million by 2020, a plan disrupted by coronavirus, and to 30million by 2030. Religious pilgrimage generates $12billion in revenues from worshippers' lodging, transport, gifts, food and fees, according to official data. Jay R. Jordan, Staff A pursuit ended with a mans death Monday in east Houston after the fleeing vehicle crashed into a chain-link fence, killing a passenger, according to police. A security guard at a trucking company near the 10000 block of Wallisville Road -- where the pursuit ended -- alerted Houston police officers around 12:30 a.m. to a pair of suspected thieves. The duo had left the business with a generator on a trailer, Houston police Assistant Chief Darryn Edwards said. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), who recently tested positive for COVID-19, told Wisconsin radio station 630 KHOW that he would go to the Senate "in a moon suit" if that's what is required to vote in person for the confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. Why it matters: Senate Democrats have demanded that confirmation hearings be delayed in light of positive COVID-19 tests for Johnson and two senators on the Judiciary Committee Mike Lee (R-Utah) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.). Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has said pushing ahead "would turn an illegitimate process into a reckless and dangerous one." The big picture: Senate Judiciary Chair Lindsey Graham said he still hopes to confirm Barrett before the election. The hearings, which are scheduled to begin on Oct. 12., are slated to go on in hybrid fashion, but the Senate must change its rules in order to adopt remote voting. Republican officials told Axios on Saturday they worry that the number of infected people around President Trump will rise, and they fear that enough senators could be sidelined to delay Barrett's confirmation. What he's saying: Johnson said he would "certainly try to find a way" to ensure the confirmation hearings could go on in a safe way and that he would be willing to change the rules of the Senate to allow for electronic voting. "We all use the internet. It's a great device. So is the telephone," Johnson said. "But if we have to go in and vote, I've already told the leadership, I'll go in in a moon suit. We think this is pretty important." "[Y]ou can go into the medical clinic, you can take the precautions and do it safely, but we wouldn't be able to do that on the floor of the Senate? Where there's a will, there's a way." Johnson downplayed Democrats' concerns about spreading the virus in the Senate, calling Schumer an "obstructionist" and saying he is doing "everything he can to try and prevent this." The state of play: Positive tests for three GOP senators mean the Senate's Republican majority is now 50-47. The Judiciary Committee needs 11 of 12 Republicans present at the committee's markup hearing to move Barrett's confirmation to the Senate floor. Republicans are hoping that by the time a potential Barrett confirmation reaches the floor, senators who tested positive for the virus will be recovered and able to vote in person. Go deeper: Who has tested positive in Trumpworld Warning: This article may have photos and posts that may be potentially disturbing. Hello October! It's Halloween month, and you know what it means? Get ready to be spooky and be prepared for some sleepless nights, because maybe a bloodthirsty ghost or two will come into your room at night. There are different types of Korean drama addicts; there are those who like romantic themed dramas or films, some are into comedy, but there are those brave ones that love horror and thriller. And when it comes to horror films, we know for sure that Korean productions are the best among the rest! So without further ado, here are 5 Korean horror films that you should watch this Halloween month, enjoy, and get spooked! Metamorphosis This film is about a married couple Gang-Goo (Sung Dong-Il) and Myung-Joo (Jang Young-Nam), with three children who are Sun-Woo (Kim Hye-Jun), Hyun-Joo (Cho Yi-Hyun), and Woo-Jong (Kim Kang-Hoon). One day they transferred to a new house and started a new life in that neighborhood; however, bizarre and terrifying things occurred to the family when they moved in. In that home, they were possessed by the devil that transforms into one family member. Then they decided to seek help from their family member, who is a Catholic priest that performs exorcisms. A Tale of Two Sisters This scary movie is about a teenage girl, Su-mi (Im Soo-Jung), who was away for her treatment for shock and psychosis in a mental institution. Then she was discharged and sent home to her family with her father (Kim Kap-soo) and younger sister Su-Yeon (Moon Geun-young), who is greatly protected. They went home to a cold reunion with their stepmother, Eun-Joo (Yum Jung-ah). When Su-mi was reunited with her sister, she found some bruises on Su Yeon's arms and angrily confronts Eun-Joo about the abuse. As the story progress, a lot of unexplainable things start to occur at the house. Something has changed, no one knows what it is, but the sisters can feel it. Alive Alive is a thrilling film that centers the story on a city that is rapidly infected by a mysterious virus that caused the city to be in complete chaos. There were two survivors in the city trapped in different apartment buildings, Joon-Woo (Yoo Ah-In) and Yoo-Bin (Park Shin-Hye). They both struggle to survive and help each other despite being away from each other. Everything, including the internet, phone, and electricity has been disconnected around the apartment. Find out if they were able to stay 'Alive' without food and water. The Closet Just by reading the title, you may already feel horrified. There's just that endless darkness in a closet that looking at it feels chilling like something is hiding in there, looking back, that even your imagination can't comprehend. The Closet is about a man named Sang-Won (Ha Jung-Woo)who just recently lost his wife due to an accident. They have a daughter, Yi Na, and his relationship with her becomes awkward. To form a bond with her daughter Sang Won decided to move to a new home. Then one day, Yi Na suddenly tells him that she has found a new friend, and it makes her happy. Then Sang Won began to hear unusual sounds coming from Yi Na's closet and notices something weird about his daughter. Yi Na then suddenly disappears. Sang Won ties to look for his daughter when mysterious man Kyung-Hoon (Kim Nam-Gil) comes to him and tells him that his daughter is inside the closet. The online shopping battle is set to resume between the country's two biggest e-commerce giants - Amazon India and Flipkart - this month. Last week, Amazon announced the Great Indian Festival Sale will be "coming soon". Flipkart has confirmed that its Big Billion Days sale will begin from October 16 to October 21. During the Navratri and Durga Puja festival, Amazon and Flipkart will offer deals and discounts on mobiles, TVs and other home appliances, electronics and accessories, and numerous other products across categories. Flipkart has partnered with the country's largest lender State Bank of India to provide the SBI cardholders a 10 per cent instant discount. Additionally, Flipkart shoppers will also get no-cost EMI options with Bajaj Finserv and various other leading bank credit and debit cards. People purchasing via Paytm wallet and Paytm UPI will also get cashback from Flipkart. In Amazon Great Indian Festival Sale, there will be a 10 per cent instant discount on HDFC Bank credit and debit cards as well as EMI. The e-tailer will also provide exchange offers, no-cost EMI, during the sale. It is anticipated that Amazon India will launch deals on phones from OnePlus, Samsung, Xiaomi, Vivo, Oppo, and also the Apple iPhone line-up. As per Amazon Great Indian Festival Sale's page, the US-based online giant has promised to offer 80 per cent off on kitchen and home appliance and 70 per cent off on books, toys and gaming. Like always, Amazon Prime members will get to shop with these deals before everyone else. Also read: IPL 2020: How UP boy Priyam Garg's father helped his son fulfil his dream Also read: Rajasthan DGP blames internet for rising rape cases, crime against women LUND, Sweden, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Alfa Laval will release third-quarter earnings on October 22nd at 07:30 CET. The telephone conference will start at 10:00 CET. To join the telephone conference - hosted by Alfa Laval's President and CEO Tom Erixon and CFO Jan Allde - sign up in advance via the link below. Once registered, you will receive a phone number, a participant pin, and a conference pin. Please dial in 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the event. http://emea.directeventreg.com/registration/2183237 You can also follow the conference via a live webcast. A webcast link will be available on www.alfalaval.com/investors. If you want to listen to the replay, call +44 (0)3333 0097 85, conference ID 2183237. The recording will be available until October 24th. After that, you can go to www.alfalaval.com/investors to watch and listen to an on-demand version of the webcast. Contacts: Johan Lundin Head of Investor Relations Phone: +46 46 36 65 10 Mobile: +46 730 46 30 90 Beata Ardhe Phone: +46 46 36 65 26 Mobile: +46 709 36 65 26 This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/alfa-laval/r/invitation-to-alfa-laval-s-third-quarter-conference-call,c3210319 The following files are available for download: SOURCE Alfa Laval Connecticut's iconic pizza empire is expanding southward. Colony Grill is set to open their sixth location in Arlington, Virginia, according to a press release. The new restaurant, which will be located at the Market Common on 2800 Clarendon Boulevard, will open to the public on Wednesday, Oct. 14. 05.10.2020 LISTEN A member of the NDC communication team, Benjamin Essuman, has described as a monumental failure the ruling NPPs flagship One village one dam policy. He further labelled 437 small earth dams the NPP claims they have constructed as mere dug-outs. Mr Essuman was commenting on the justification by the ruling party on the GHC140billion government borrowing. Speaking on the Morning Starr Monday, he said that the aim of the dam was to make farming lucrative for the indigenes so that they will not abandon farming in the north and rush down to the south to struggle. When COVID-19 came, government finally had to rush to feed Kayayes in Accra. I thought it would have attracted them back to the north to go and do farming. Because that policy is a monumental failure, theres nothing like one village one dam, its only a dug out. The Pwalugu dam, one million dollar project, is a dam. A dam that can hold water, at the right time that it thinks the water is getting excessive, it can even open its valves and it can go smoothly. You go to a village and you dig and you say its a dam. He added the minister in charge Hawa Koomson says one of the dams costs GHC150k, this is a joke. And even this one you are not doing it in all the villages, you selected a few. ---Starrfm From an arable farmers perspective, the 2020 harvest is probably one to forget. With the wettest autumn in many years inhibiting ground conditions for planting, and then spring only offering a brief window for spring sowing to make up the deficit it was never going to be a particularly memorable harvest. Farmers are now turning towards the new cycle with the hope that this first year of the new decade will finally be behind them. Displaying typical resilience and determination to get on with the job in hand, crops are now largely harvested and farmers are now looking forward to a new cropping year. The Clydesdale and Yorkshire Bank agricultural team has been reviewing how their area has performed. With variable weather affecting the whole nation, and lockdown hitting the sectors usual demand, it is unsurprising that farming in 2020 has been a bit of a roller-coaster. Oliver Maxey, Regional Head of Agriculture, offers insights from working with those out in the fields in the South of England: As this years farm harvest draws to a close, the large amount of spring cropping, coupled with the exceptionally dry spring, has resulted in grain stores being not quite as full as hoped. Of course there is significant variation from one farm to another depending on the crops grown, soil type and rainfall for the area, however the harvest in the South of England is probably down about 30% on what would normally be expected. Alongside this, straw yields are also lower than normal, which will further reduce income streams for farms. On the bright side, grain prices have been steadily rising over the past 12 months and are currently at approximately 175/ton, which is 25% up on the last five-year average. This brings some opportunity to make up lost income despite lower yields. Another positive is savings that have been made through reduced fertiliser and spray costs, which are due to growing larger than normal areas of spring crops this year, compared to more expensive winter cereals. So, fortunately it may be that cashflows on arable farms find some relief. Livestock farms have also not escaped the chain of COVID-19 and climate consequences, as rising grain prices, inevitably lead to higher bought-in feed prices. Oliver continued: Beef, sheep and pig prices are running quite firm at the moment, which is good news. So, while it will be disappointing for those farmers to incur higher feed prices, they are perhaps in a stronger position to deal with rising feed costs compared to much of the dairy industry, where the current average milk price is only on a par with the average cost of production. Along with the entire economy, the agricultural sector will be waiting for news on a trade deal with the EU. Oliver considers the implications: We all saw how quickly supermarket shelves emptied when COVID-19, took hold in the spring. Given the quantity of food imported from and exported to Europe, this is a big issue and one to watch closely. While any Brexit deal is not solely focussed on food, hopefully it is deemed an important aspect of the negotiation and will safeguard the future of farming in Britain. Darren Owers Regional Head of Agriculture for the North of England & Yorkshire, reports that on his patch, some in the agricultural sector cannot remember a year with so many challenging weather conditions. Yet, with weather cycles a feature of cultivating, farmers are relieved to see that soils seem to be in excellent condition to establish and enable an early start for next years crops. The billionaire Liberman familys ethical investment house Impact Investment Group has been accused by investors of acting dishonestly and unfairly over a $70 million property deal in Sydney's Central Park precinct. The investors, which include Sydney's wealthy Salteri family through their philanthropic foundation set up to support indigenous children, are suing the funds management arm of Berry Liberman and Danny Almagor's ethical investment manager in the Supreme Court of Victoria. The investors allege they did not receive any of the estimated $11 million in profits that were made when Impact sold the building. The investors together put in $2 million. However, Impact has hit back at the allegations. "Impact Investment Group always acts with integrity and honesty, but that doesn't mean we can be pushed around," chief executive Daniel Madhavan told The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. Job Title: Capacity Building Program Assistant (2 Fresher Jobs) Organization: Samasha Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda About US: Samasha is a Global South Non-Governmental-Organization with headquarters in Uganda that provides technical assistance to improve Reproductive, Maternal, New-born, Child, Adolescent Health outcomes through Advocacy and Accountability, Health Systems Strengthening, as well as generating evidence and innovations. The organization was incorporated in Uganda in 2012 and has since grown to implement projects in Uganda, Indonesia, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, Zambia, Malawi, Ivory Coast, Togo, Burkina Faso and Nigeria. We build local and technical capacity for provision of internationally rated consulting services and projects; and support public, private and civil society to create synergy to leverage the increasing scarce resources for improved health needs of populations in the Global South. Job Summary: The purpose of this job is to coordinate implementation of the Motion Tracker Framework through the provision of Technical Assistance to the Country local convening organizations in any of the Cluster Ouagadougou Partnership (OP) countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote dIvoire, Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, and Togo). The incumbent will be supervised by the Regional Motion Tracker Coordinator but S/he is required to work with minimum supervision, and in harmony with other staff members; produce high quality work and keep supervisor apprised of progress of assigned tasks. S/he must also exercise extensive judgment in planning and carrying out tasks; resolve challenges and meet deadlines. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Implementation of the Motion Tracker (TMT) framework in Francophone West Africa Identify and selection of the local convening organizations in any 3 Clusters (Benin/Guinea; Mali/Mauritania, Niger/ Senegal). Conduct the orientation training on the Motion Tracker to personnel of the selected convener organizations from the 6 countries. Liaise with and support the local convening organizations in each cluster to ensure skills for deconstruction, data collection and convening stakeholder meetings are met. Coordinate, monitor and provide technical support to the activities undertaken by the Motion Tracker Country coordinators. Ensure that proper and adequate preparation for the stakeholder meetings is undertaken and these include readying the meeting Agenda, Activity Progress Report reports and power point presentations. Provide routine technical support to the local convening organizations in the respective countries and resolve any emerging challenges. Responsible for producing the regional workshop reports, progress reports for submission to Ouagadougou Partnership Coordination Unit (OPCU). Provide technical assistance to the local conveners in respective countries during the formulation of the FP2030 Commitments. Prepare the required reports on Motion Tracker Implementation project activities and progress for Management or Partners. Make an evaluation of Motion Tracker Implementation project effectiveness to develop successes, lessons leant and recommend appropriate actions. Interact and maintain liaison with Motion Tracker Country Coordinators and staff of convener organizations and other partners in facilitating project objectives. Other duties Develop project work plan in accordance with specifications and funding limitations and determine priorities. Support the resource mobilization for the department through proposal writing and /or any other innovations. Networking and partnering with other organizational partners Review and translate project documents independently or in conjunction with supervisor to determine acceptance or make decisions pertaining their(documents) quality. Any other assigned duties Qualifications, Skills and Experience: The applicant must hold a first level university degree: A Bachelors degree in Health, Social Sciences, Education, Development studies or equivalent in any related field of study. A Masters degree in the same will be an added advantage. S/he should have two years experience in translating documents from English into French and vice versa. One year of experience in interpretation of French into English and vice versa. S/he should also have one-year experience in project management including coordinating Program activities; organize and facilitate workshop and conference of larger audiences. S/he should be computer proficient especially in Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel and PowerPoints Presentation. Be 40 years old or younger. Must be Fluent (speaking, reading, writing, understanding) in French and English. How to Apply: All candidates should send a detailed Curriculum Vitae to the following address: info@samasha.org with the subject Capacity Building Program Assistant. Deadline: Tuesday, 6th October 2020 For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline - President Uhuru Kenyatta has returned to the country amid a political storm that is widening rift in the Jubilee Party - Last week, William Ruto and over 20 MPs allied to him stormed Jubilee Party headquarters and held a meeting - Party secretary-general Raphael Tuju described the meeting as a coup since it was convened in the absence of party leader who is the president - Tuju said the party was now considering removing Ruto from the position of deputy party leader and banned him from accessing Jubilee Party headquarters in Pangani - On Sunday, two warring factions within the Jubilee Party clashed in Murang'a ahead of a visit by Ruto resulting in the death of two people PAY ATTENTION: Click 'See First' under 'Follow' Tab to see Tuko.co.ke news on your FB Feed President Uhuru Kenyatta has flown back into the country from France where he was on a five-day official visit. President Uhuru Kenyatta. Photo: State House Kenya. Source: Facebook TUKO.co.ke has learnt Uhuru arrived in Nairobi on the night of Sunday, October 4, from France where Kenya signed at least three bilateral deals aimed at spurring the country's economy. The deals signed included a public-private partnership (PPP) for the construction of the Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit highway, agreements for the development of the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) commuter railway line and the 400KV Menengai-Rongai electricity transmission line. Funding for the projects was valued at least KSh 180 billion. Before his return to Nairobi, the president made a stopover in Egypt where he paid his counterpart President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi a courtesy call. "On his way from France last evening, President Uhuru Kenyatta made a stopover in Egypt during which he paid his Egyptian counterpart President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi a courtesy call. In their meeting at Heliopolis Palace in Cairo, the two African Heads of State discussed a number of subjects of mutual interest between Kenya and Egypt among them regional peace and security, trade and Africa's response to COVID-19," State House said in a statement. The president, however, arrived in the country amid political turbulence that has rocked the Jubilee Party where he is the leader. Among issues the president is expected to provide guidance on is the announcement by secretary-general Raphael Tuju who disclosed party's top organ was planning to removed Ruto from the position of deputy party leader. The Friday, October 2, announcement by Tuju came a day after the deputy president and over 20 MPs allied to him stormed the Pangani based party headquarters and held a meeting. Tuju also banned Ruto from accessing the party headquarters accusing him of staging a 'coup'. "We never wished to get to this point. We serve one president at a time. The party headquarters is not going to be allowed to be a theatre of confrontations. The DP, as self-declared 2022 presidential candidate will not be allowed to use party office as the centre of operationalisation of 2022 campaign. During COVID-19 conference, his seat remained conspicuously empty throughout the event although he was included in the programme to make remarks according to the state protocol then invite the president to make statements. From such travesty, the only thing we have received from DPs camp are tweets from his allies rubbing more salt into the injury," said Tuju who accused Ruto of staging a 'coup' at the party offices following Uhuru's absence from the country. On Sunday, two warring factions within the Jubilee Party clashed in Murang'a ahead of a visit by the DP resulting in the death of two people. Following the fracas, Inspector-General of Police Hillary Mutyambai ordered arrest of Kandara MP Alice Wahome and her Kiharu counterpart Ndindi Nyoro for allegedly sponsoring the violence. The two lawmakers, however, distanced themselves from the chaos arguing that it was impossible for them to organise violence during their own meeting. The violence could be among issues the president may want to address since the same happened when the DP visited Kisii county on September 10. Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly. My mother abandoned me with two holes in my heart | Tuko TV. Source: TUKO.co.ke New Delhi, Oct 5 : The Supreme Court on Monday expressed dissatisfaction over the response filed by central government and RBI on the loan moratorium issue as the recommendation by the Kamat Committee and action on it did not feature in the reply. The top court has sought specific reply from the Centre on the recommendations by Kamat Committee, which have been accepted and also queried, as to "how many of them have been put in the public domain?" A bench headed by Justice Ashok Bhushan gave one week to the Centre to file an additional affidavit in the matter clarifying the implementation of the Kamat Committee recommendations. The bench observed that the Kamat Committee recommendations and follow up action on individual sectors has also not been placed before it. The bench said "Why was it not placed before us?" Senior advocate V.V. Giri representing the RBI submitted before the bench that decisions have been taken at the highest level and the government has assured hand-holding of small borrowers. Giri added this will also require statutory amendment, circulars and emphasized that the government proposal will take care of large chunk of small borrowers, who fear interest on interest during the moratorium. The bench said no consequential orders, circulars have been issued by the Centre or Reserve Bank of India to enforce the decisions, and also Kamat Committee recommendations have not been placed before the court. The top court emphasized that the RBI should should make public the recommendations that have been accepted. The bench allowed the Centre and RBI to file additional affidavit on policy decision and it's implementation, and scheduled the next hearing in the matter on October 13. The Centre in an affidavit informed the Supreme Court that it has taken a decision to waive "interest on interest" on loans up to Rs 2 crore during the six-month moratorium period. The affidavit said the only solution is that the government should bear the burden resulting from waiver of compound interest. "After careful consideration and weighing all possible options, the respondent Union of India has decided to continue the tradition of hand-holding the small borrowers," said the Centre. The categories of loans up to Rs 2 crore include: MSME loans, education loans, housing loans, consumer durable loans, credit card dues, auto loans, personal loans to professional and consumption loans. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Gettyimagesbank When she first met a mysterious South Korean man who introduced himself as Dr Seong, the woman thought she had found a father figure to help her start a new life after fleeing from her home in North Korea. It seemed a positive relationship, with Seong paying her for information and reconnecting her with her brother still in North Korea. But things went bad when Seong and a colleague, identified by his surname Kim, began to sexually abuse her, according to the woman and military prosecutors who indicted Seong, a Defence Intelligence Command (DIC) lieutenant colonel, and Kim, a master sergeant, this month on charges of sexually assaulting and raping the woman. More than 72% of the 33,700 North Koreans resettled in the South are women and at least a quarter of them encountered sexual violence in the South but less than 10% sought help, the gender equality ministry found in a 2017 survey. Defectors have complained recently that the government of President Moon Jae-in, who has made improving ties with North Korea a priority, is failing to provide refuge by ignoring rights, stifling political activity and deporting some escapees. In an interview with Reuters, the woman, who agreed to be identified only by her surname Lee, said the agents abused their power and turned her dream of a new life into a nightmare. "I was mad at myself, for being unable to resist when they did that to me," she said. "After all, they were the first people I trusted, respected and relied on here." A lawyer for Seong and Kim did not respond to requests for comment. Defendants in South Korean criminal cases are customarily not identified by their full names. The defence ministry, which handles public relations for the DIC, declined to comment. The military's chief prosecutor, Colonel Lee Soo-dong, told Reuters Seong and Kim said they had consensual sexual intercourse with the woman but denied rape. 'ABSOLUTE POWER' The woman was 26 when she defected in 2014, disillusioned with her job at a military institute and harbouring dreams of South Korea gleaned from television dramas. It was her link to the institute, as well as the fact her brother still worked there, that apparently made her an attractive asset for South Korean agents. Seong told her he worked for the government and they developed what she described as a "father-daughter" relationship. When she pleaded for help after her brother was arrested in North Korea in 2018, while trying to get information that Seong had requested, he and Kim began raping her, she said. The woman later learned North Korean secret police detained her brother. He has not been heard from since. Lee said the abuse lasted nearly a year and a half and she was pressed to get two abortions and suffered severe distress. Her lawyer, Jeon Su-mi, described her decision to file a complaint as her #MeToo moment. But the woman said military prosecutors victimised her during the long investigation, suggesting the sex was consensual and pressing her to drop the complaint. She said at one point, she had to listen to an audio clip recorded by Seong during one alleged rape, which left her suicidal. She said she sought therapy. Prosecutor Lee said his colleagues never intended to undermine her rights, though he acknowledged they should have been more sensitive. Jeon blamed the system for enabling agents to take advantage of vulnerable defectors. "The women can't say 'no' because to them, these people have absolute power, like God." The president's office declined to comment on the woman's case but Moon has called on the security agencies change the way they conduct investigations. (Reuters) GENEVA Maintaining levels of humanitarian aid is a comparatively inexpensive way to save lives and protect refugees and their host communities facing a pandemic of poverty resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees said today. The economic and financial consequences of the coronavirus are affecting all countries, including those whose contributions form the backbone of UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agencys yearly income, Filippo Grandi told UNHCRs annual Executive Committee gathering in Geneva. But maintaining aid and especially humanitarian budgets will be a relatively inexpensive way to save lives, protect the vulnerable, and help them live in dignity and security, Grandi said. It will mitigate the instability likely to rise from growing pockets of marginalization, which will be much more costly to address later, he added. Despite the UN Secretary-Generals call for a global ceasefire early in the pandemic, Grandi said conflict, violence, discrimination, human rights violations and political crises have continued, pushing the total number of forcibly displaced people to almost 80 million double the figure of 10 years ago. Fresh displacement in the past year included 600,000 forced from their homes in the Central Sahel and more than 140,000 people uprooted in Yemen, where the threat of famine looms for 24 million people. In Central America, meanwhile, 100,000 Nicaraguans have sought safety abroad, most of them in Costa Rica. While governments worldwide have taken tough measures to stop the spread of the virus, often closing borders, Grandi urged States to ensure such restrictions remain temporary and non-discriminatory, and respect . international human rights obligations. Over 110 States have found ways to keep asylum systems functioning while taking necessary public health precautions. Grandi cited the example of Uganda which, while already hosting more than 1.4 million refugees, nevertheless re-opened its borders to allow 3,000 people fleeing deadly militia violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo to cross and find refuge. "Stopping the virus and offering protection is not and must not be a zero-sum equation." Stopping the virus and offering protection is not and must not be a zero-sum equation. Both are possible and lives can be saved, he said. While human displacement continues predominantly to affect countries with few resources, some refugees have continued to move towards the global north; often alongside migrants seeking opportunities for a better life. While not minimizing the challenges this presents, the solution cannot be to close the door, Grandi said. We cannot allow xenophobic reactions, only meant to draw facile consensus and electoral votes, to shape responses to challenges that are complex, but manageable. He warned against dangerous lines of thinking that have emerged in some countries, including externalising asylum beyond a countrys borders an approach that can violate international law, put the lives of the most vulnerable in jeopardy and constitute precedents which threaten asylum globally, he said. Grandi gave as examples mothers and children fleeing gang violence in Northern Central America pushed back or even returned to countries of origin; boats loaded with Rohingya refugees wandering between ports in Southeast Asia without being allowed to disembark; and in the Mediterranean, the vessel Maersk Etienne being unable to land with 27 people it rescued for more than a month as States failed to live up to their responsibilities. People will continue to flee unless the root causes of their flight are solved, the High Commissioner cautioned. Reducing search and rescue capacity, or impeding those who engage to save others, or pushing back people without due process, will not stop people from moving, it will only lead to more deaths and the further erosion of refugee protection. Against the backdrop of rising displacement and COVID-19, Grandi stressed that humanitarian aid alone would not suffice. The inclusion of refugees, the internally displaced and stateless people in national responses is also needed. Inclusion must also apply to social services, safety nets and measures to counter food insecurity, and support refugees and their hosts in regions with large displaced populations. Also vital, is the access to education and the right to work. As climate change threats grow, Grandi urged the development of better forecasting and predictive analytics to enable targeted responses before displacement occurs. We know that climate-induced displacement is going to continue and worsen." We know that climate-induced displacement is going to continue and worsen. The question is also how to prevent, mitigate, and prepare before it happens, he said. While most refugees prefer to return home, resettlement to third countries remains a vital alternative, at least for the most vulnerable. Grandi expressed deep disappointment with the overall levels of resettlement places available. In 2019, just over 100,000 refugees were resettled; less than one quarter of one per cent of the worlds refugees, in a constantly declining trend. Amid COVID-related travel restrictions, some countries have managed to keep their doors open. Grandi commended Canada, the largest resettlement country last year, and a champion of innovative approaches. But it is not enough, and I appeal to governments to do more to help resettle the most urgent cases, and increase opportunities through complementary pathways, he said. Grandi said that the vulnerabilities highlighted by the pandemic must be an incentive to pursue solutions to forced displacement, even if favourable circumstances are rare. He commended efforts by leaders in Sudan and South Sudan to end conflict, and as part of the peace processes to pursue comprehensive solutions for the displaced. He also welcomed cross-border contacts that have taken place between Myanmar officials and refugees in Bangladesh so that refugees are aware of the conditions in their villages of origin. Finally, he praised UNHCR staff who stayed and delivered vital assistance in difficult places as the pandemic took hold, and refugees, displaced and stateless people who came together with host communities to keep each other safe. The Congress Karnataka unit on Monday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of using the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as an electoral weapon following the agencys raids at multiple locations linked to state party leader DK Shivakumar and his brother DK Suresh. The CBI is conducting raids at 14 locations including the leaders residence and business establishments. As many as 60 CBI men are involved in the raids, police officials familiar with the matter said. Locations being raided include the brothers premises in Bengaluru, Ramanagar, Kanakapura, Delhi and Mumbai. The CBI attack is the BJPs permanent electoral process. BJPs fear of losing the by-election. We condemn the CBI attack on hate politics, the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee wrote on Twitter in Kannada. Also Watch | CBI raids premises linked to DK Shivakumar; Congress says its a witch-hunt The partys chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala called the CBI a puppet of the Modi-Yeddyurappa duo and said that they wont be deterred by the move. The insidious game of intimidation & machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding @DKShivakumar wont deter us. CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt. But, Raid Raj is their only Machiavellian Move ! Surjewala tweeted. In another tweet, he added that Modi and Yeddyurappas devious attempts will only strengthen the Congress partys resolve to fight for people and expose BJPs maladministration. Let Modi & Yeddyurappa Govts & BJPs frontal organizations i.e CBI-ED-Income Tax know that Congress workers & leaders will not be cowed down nor bow down before such devious attempts. Our resolve to fight for people & expose BJPs maladministration only becomes stronger, he wrote. The insidious game of intimidation & machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding @DKShivakumar wont deter us. CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt. But, Raid Raj is their only Machiavellian Move ! 1/2 Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) October 5, 2020 Leader of opposition and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah also took to the microblogging site to criticise the CBI raids and accused the BJP of indulging in vendetta politics. @BJP4India has always tried to indulge in vindictive politics & mislead public attention. The latest CBI raid on @KPCCPresident @DKShivakumars house is another attempt to derail our preparation for bypolls. I strongly condemn this, he tweeted. State Congress working president Saleem Ahmed told reporters, Afraid of losing Sira and RR Nagar by-polls, BJP is resorting to these tactics. We wont be cowed down and will fight this. The Congress will hold a protest meet at its headquarters in Bengaluru against CBIs move on KPCC chief Shivakumar. Shelf Grab Bar Combo The new line from ThermoMat Italy includes ADA Compliant fold up shower seats, grab bars, and unique multifunctional shelves with added grip support. Italian design has long been known for its innovative contemporary looks and these products will delight home buyers. E&T Horizons introduces a new line from ThermoMat Italy that includes an extended range of designer shower and bathroom safety accessories marketed by Design By Intent. With the aging in place movement more and more Americans are staying in their homes longer, and this necessitates products for the changing physical needs of older adults. E&T Horizons vision is to carve a new niche in the shower and bathroom safety market with products that are not only functional, but also sleek and beautiful. stated Terri Gelman, CEO and owner of E&T Horizons, LLC. We firmly believe there is a void in the market for designer styled safety bathroom furniture for consumers that have modern updated bathrooms and want an alternative to the traditional hospital styled safety products. The new line from ThermoMat Italy -- https://www.decoteak.com/categories/disability-shower-seats.html -- includes ADA Compliant fold up shower seats, grab bars, and unique multifunctional shelves with added grip support. Italian design has long been known for its innovative contemporary looks and these products will delight home buyers. Products are available in a variety of designer colors to coordinate with modern bathroom decors. Unique to the market is the concept of combining the functionality of a traditional grab bar, with the feature of a display and storage shelf. These can be used both in the shower, and in the bathroom by the toilet or in other areas. The support bar is weight supporting and provides for additional stability and anti-slipping. In addition, the grab bar offers dually functional as an attractive towel bar. The shelf can be used for display, or for storage of toilet and shower accessories. This collection even includes a stylish toilet paper roll holder with a support bar feature for assisting in standing up from the toilet. The ADA Compliant fold up shower seats come in a variety of styles and colors that fuse functionality with designer style. They all support up to 330 pounds of weight, and neatly fold up against the wall when not in use. The material used in their construction makes them resistant to corrosion, or damage from soaps and shampoos. A new line of ADA Compliant grab bars will appeal to consumers that wish to retain the elegance and sophistication of their contemporary bathrooms. Although there are hundreds of potential grab bar suppliers, very few offer designer styled ADA compliant products that are not Made in China. The CDC estimates that every year over 235,000 people in the USA visit the emergency room due to injuries suffered in the bathroom. Over one-third of these injuries occur in the while bathing or showering. In a recent posting the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) noted that the need for shower and bathroom safety products extends well beyond the senior citizen market. They stated that in actuality 26% of Americans over the ages of 18 suffer from a form of disability that could impact their safety in the shower and bathroom. These beautiful ThermoMat Italy products can be purchased at http://www.decoteak.com, as well as select luxury bathroom showrooms around the country. ABOUT DESIGN BY INTENT Design By Intent is focused on providing attractive and stylish shower and bathroom furniture and safety aids. The majority of handicap shower seating, and bathroom safety products have a very utilitarian, institutional, and medical feel to them. The Design By Intent Innovato line of handicap shower chairs are stylish, aerodynamic, sleek, and have a designer feel to them. The SwapAble line is the most flexible and modular shower safety family in existence. It provides for dedicated installation or interchanging components between handicap and non-handicap users. In addition it is the only shower chair where an individual can prepare for their future Aging in Place needs by installing a small mini-shelf (great for shaving legs in the shower), which at any point in the future can be interchanged with the mounted foldaway shower seat. ABOUT E&T HORIZONS E&T Horizons, a certified WBENC womens business enterprise, provides modern bathroom and shower furniture and accessories that are safe and functional, as well as beautiful and elegant. The companys newest brand, DesignByIntent, has searched the world over for bathroom and shower furniture that sets a new benchmark for the fusion of design, beauty and functionality. DesignByIntent is the exclusive North American distributor of Pellet, a sixty-year-old French company specializing in bathroom safety products. Both companies have a mission to provide products that are both elegant and functional. E&T Horizons provides a full range of solid teak bathroom and shower furniture through its other leading brands DecoTeak, EcoDecors and CoastalVogue. For more information, call 888-965-0070, contact sales@decoteak.com or visit http://www.DecoTeak.com. Alter carried out his prize-winning studies at the U.S. National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, where he remains active, the committee said. Rice worked on hepatitis at Washington University in St. Louis and now works at Rockefeller University in New York. Houghton, born in Britain in 1950, studied at the Chiron Corporation in California before moving to the University of Alberta in Canada. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 19:07:06|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close HELSINKI, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Finnish Finance Ministry has improved its predictions about the country's economy, but warns about the impact of a possible second wave of COVID-19, according to a survey of the ministry published on Monday. In the survey, the ministry reduced its prediction for a GDP decline for 2020 to 4.5 percent from a 6-percent prediction made in July. The ministry forecast a 2.6-percent growth for 2021 and a 1.7-percent growth for 2022. Talking at a government press conference on Monday, Mikko Spolander, a director general at the ministry, expressed concerns about the current rise of COVID-19 infections in Finland. He noted that much of the current Finnish economic recovery has been based on consumer demand, and "fear is seen already in some indicators". Exports and industrial production are not predicted to turn into growth until in 2021. "The risks are now tangible," said Spolander, noting that the survey had been titled "a turning point," which now may go either way. The new predictions were done based on the assumption that no new major restrictions on society would be imposed. In the global economy, the Finnish Finance Ministry predicted a 6-percent decline this year and a 5.5-percent growth next year. The world trade would decline 10 percent for this full year despite its switch to a growth path in June, according to the survey, which predicted a 6.5-percent growth in world trade for next year. Jukka Railavo, senior financial adviser at the ministry, underlined at the press conference that "China will start leading the world economy with its strong growth in exports," but China would also "need customers" and this means that other economies should pick up as well. The ministry predicted growth for all the continents next year, but in China the growth is taking place already this year, noted Railavo. On the long-term prospects for the Finnish economy, Smolander said that COVID-19 intensified the problems of the Finnish public economy. "It is crucial how Finland will respond later to the problems caused by the aging population structure," he said, adding that currently Finland's ability to create new production and income is not sufficient, and the public sector is not efficient enough, to produce enough revenue to offer the services of the welfare state for the generations to come. To solve its problems, Finland should be able to benefit from the economic opportunities offered by global developments in fields such as climate change, Smolander said. Enditem Bahrain has temporarily suspended flights to a number of destinations judged risky as part of the Gulf countrys efforts to stem the spread of covid-19 pandemic. The Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs at the Ministry of Telecommunications Mohammed Thamer Al-Kaabi, reports say, indicated that the temporary suspension had been recommended by the National Taskforce for Combating Covid-19 to protect citizens and residents health and safety. Kaabi did not disclose the countries targeted. Bahrain reopened its main airport in July after several month of hiatus. The national carrier, Gulf Air, as of September, resumed flying to London, Paris, Frankfurt, Manila, Athens, Cairo, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Kuwait, Peshawar, Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi. The Albany area continues to have the highest number of COVID-19 cases in Linn and Benton counties, despite the return of students to Oregon State University in Corvallis, according to Oregon Health Authority ZIP code data. Hub City and Millersburg had 329 total cases, compared to 244 for Corvallis and Adair Village. However, the ZIP code associated with OSU, 97331, with 27 cases, had by far the mid-Willamette Valleys highest rate of cases per 100,000 people, with 1,121.3. Sweet Home, with 24 cases, continued to have the areas lowest rate per 100,000 people, at 176.9. Heres a closer look at the numbers, which are generally part of the states weekly report released on Wednesdays. Albanys ZIP code 97322 had the most cases by a wide margin, with 210 (extrapolated to 616.9 cases per 100,000 people). The Albany ZIP code 97321, which includes Millersburg, had 119 cases (477.4 per 100,000). The Corvallis ZIP code with the most instances of COVID-19 was 97330, which includes Adair Village. That ZIP code had 152 cases of the illness, (366.5 per 100,000), followed by 97333 with 65 (304.1 per 100,000), and 97331 with 27. The Lebanon area had 105 cases (367 per 100,000). In other local cities: Harrisburg had 33 COVID-19 cases (685.8 per 100,000 people); Philomath had 33 cases (399 per 100,000); Jefferson had 21 (374.7 per 100,000); and Scio had 13 (246.9 per 100,000). Alsea, Brownsville, Halsey, Lyons, Mill City, Monroe and Tangent were all listed as having 1-9 cases of COVID-19. Detailed information isnt released about ZIP codes with fewer than 10 cases. On Sunday, Oregon announced 260 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases, with six of those occurring in Linn County and one in Benton County. The states death toll also rose by one to 572. Oregons latest death due to the novel coronavirus pandemic was that of a 80-year-old Marion County man who had underlying health conditions. Linn County now has 568 COVID-19 cases and 13 deaths from the illness, while Benton County has 349 cases and six deaths. The state of Oregon has had 34,770 cases of COVID-19 during the pandemic, according to figures from the Oregon Health Authority. Other counties with cases reported by the OHA on Sunday included: Clackamas (16); Columbia (3); Coos (3); Deschutes (8); Douglas (4); Jackson (9); Jefferson (4); Klamath (2); Lane (29); Lincoln (1); Malheur (14); Marion (37); Morrow (2); Multnomah (61); Polk (4); Umatilla (11); Washington (35); and Yamhill (10). According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday afternoon, the United States has experienced 7.36 million cases of COVID-19 and nearly 209,000 deaths from the illness. Kyle Odegard can be contacted at 541-812-6077 or kyle.odegard@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter via @KyleOdegard. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. This is the front line in the battle for Marib: a gas-rich region of Yemen, and the last stronghold of the country's internationally recognized government. Fighting has raged here for months and a Houthi victory would hand the group complete control of the northern half of Yemen. Some experts say that could have ripple effects across the country and scupper U.N. efforts to secure a nationwide ceasefire. UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen Lise Grande says the fighting has displaced nearly a million people. "We know that any intensification of the conflict will put them at extreme risk and we are very worried that many of the people who live in Marib city will themselves become displaced by the conflict." One of the displaced is Mohamed Abdullah Qassim. He says he and his family had to move camps when the fighting came near, and that now they've been left with nothing except tents. The Saudi-backed government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi was ousted from power in the capital, Sanaa, in late 2014 by the Iran-aligned Houthi movement. In April, another separatist group declared self-rule in Aden, which had been the interim seat of government. Now, after six years of civil war that has claimed more than 100,000 lives, Houthi forces have been advancing in the government's last bastion, seizing six districts and large parts of Sarwah, just a few dozen miles from Marib city. It is the last line of defense before Yemen's biggest gas and oil fields, but the Houthis' progress has been slowed, and victory is not guaranteed. Roughly one in 10 people may have been infected with the coronavirus, leaving the vast majority of the worlds population vulnerable to the Covid-19 disease it causes, the World Health Organization said on Monday. Mike Ryan, the WHOs top emergency expert, was addressing the agencys Executive Board, where the United States made a thinly veiled swipe at China for what it called a failure to provide accurate and timely information on the outbreak. But Zhang Yang of Chinas National Health Commission, said: China has always been transparent and responsible to fulfil our international obligations. China maintained close contacts with all levels of the UN health agency, she added. Read More Ryan said that outbreaks were surging in parts of southeast Asia and that cases and deaths were on the rise in parts of Europe and the eastern Mediterranean region. Our current best estimates tell us about 10pc of the global population may have been infected by this virus. It varies depending on country, it varies from urban to rural, it varies depending on groups. But what it does mean is that the vast majority of the world remains at risk, Ryan said. We are now heading into a difficult period. The disease continues to spread, he said. The WHO and other experts have said that the virus, believed to have emerged in a food market in the central Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, is of animal origin. The WHO has submitted a list of experts to take part in an international mission to China to investigate the origin, for consideration by Chinese authorities, Ryan said, without giving details. U.S. assistant health secretary Brett Giroir said that it was critical that WHOs 194 member states receive regular and timely updates, including the terms of reference for this panel or for any field missions, so that we can all engage with the process and be confident in the outcomes. Germany, speaking for the EU, said the expert mission should be deployed soon, with Australia also supporting a swift investigation. Meanwhile, Alexandra Dronova, Russias deputy health minister, called for an evaluation of the legal and financial repercussions of the Trump administration announcing the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO next July. The United States will not pay some $80million it owes the WHO and will instead redirect the money to help pay its UN bill in New York, a US official said on September 2. The Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission unanimously approved over $639,000 in funding from both the federal government and the county to three local organizations that have helped residents through the pandemic in a special called session Tuesday night. Rupert Everett has likened the current climate of attacks on free speech to the former communist regime of East Germany. Everett, 61, who found fame playing a gay public school pupil in the 1984 drama Another Country, said: 'We're in such a weird new world, a kind of Stasi it feels like to me, and if you don't reflect exactly the right attitude, you risk everything just being destroyed for you by this judgmental, sanctimonious, intransigent, intractable, invisible cauldron of hags around in the virtual world.' Rupert Everett has likened the current climate of attacks on free speech to the former communist regime of East Germany The actor and director, who was speaking at the Cheltenham Literature Festival, said he was born 'illegal' because homosexuality was not legalised in the UK until 1967. He added: 'That whole movement of the 1970s in London and in New York was so incredible. London from 1993, 1995 to 2004... the change that came about was really amazing.' Asked about his own legacy, he said: 'I think when you croak now things are moving too fast. No one knows how to celebrate anything that isn't happening right now.' Everett said that after initial early acting success with Another Country, his career stalled and he found the showbusiness world very tough, including being blanked by Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein. Everett, 61, found fame playing a gay public school pupil in the 1984 drama Another Countr. He is pictured above in the drama with Colin Firth 'I knew I was dead then,' he said. He also said he found it difficult to get a break when he switched to directing. 'I wasn't the right type of gay, the wrong type of gay at the wrong time, as usual, typical me,' he said. 'The right type of gay at the wrong time. Now I don't think I'm the right type of gay. I thought finally being gay is the card you can wave but I'm not sure if I'm the right type of queen now.' Asked by interviewer Emma Freud why, Everett replied: 'Well, I'm not sure. I don't know why, really.' The appointment of Arkhom Termpittayapaisith was officially confirmed Monday with its publication in the government gazette, which carried a declaration by the prime minister saying King Maha Vajiralongkorn had endorsed the selection, which took effect on October 1. The job presents a huge challenge as Thailand strives to cushion the devastating economic fallout from the coronavirus. The National Economic and Social Development Council, the country's economic planning agency, has projected a 5 per cent contraction in the economy this year. Arkhom served as transport minister in the military government installed after a 2014 coup. Prayuth Chan-ocha, who served as prime minister in that regime, returned as prime minister after a general election last year. Before receiving a Cabinet position, Arkhom served as a member of the junta's appointed National Legislative Assembly. Arkhom had previously been secretary-general of the economic planning agency, which then was called the National Economic and Social Development Board. Arkhom's immediate predecessor, banker Predee Daochai, resigned on Sept. 1 after less than a month on the job. No official reason was given for his departure. Predee had succeeded Uttama Savanayana, who as finance minister had been part of a team led by Somkid Jatusripitak, a deputy prime minister who had been overseeing economic stimulus packages. Somkid's team, which also included Energy Minister Sontirat Sontijirawong and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Suwit Mesinsee, resigned together in July. Their departures were related to a shakeup in the ruling Palang Pracharath party. There were many reports that Somkid, who served in several governments over the past 19 years, was at odds with Prime Minister Prayuth. Oliver Mangan, AIB chief economist, said: Weakening demand was manifested in declining sales, both at home and abroad, with a marked fall in the volume of incoming new business in September. The services sector contracted last month amid "very challenging" conditions for firms. It comes as the number of confirmed cases of Covid-19 rises, while economic uncertainty continues. The services sector - which spans industries from bars and hotels to banking - is the country's most important. Last month, the sector fell sharply following two months of "modest" growth, according to the latest AIB Irish Services Purchases Managers Index (PMI). Overall, the PMI - an indicator designed to provide a single-figure measure of the health of the services industry - fell to 45.8 from 52.4 in August, moving well into contraction territory, which is any reading below 50. The transport, tourism and leisure sector posted particularly weak readings in September. Oliver Mangan, AIB chief economist, said: "Weakening demand was manifested in declining sales, both at home and abroad, with a marked fall in the volume of incoming new business in September. "Overall, the PMI data shows that business conditions are very challenging for many firms operating in the services sector of the economy, owing to the continuing Covid-19 pandemic." Service providers reported a renewed decline in new business in September, following only a marginal increase in August. The rate of contraction was stronger than in July, but slower than in the March-to-June period, according to the index. Companies linked weak demand to Covid-19 restrictions, economic uncertainty and difficulty in completing new sales due to longer decision-making by clients. As the level of activity in the sector declined, employment also fell. Companies reported redundancies, reduced working hours, the non-replacement of employees who left, and cost-cutting due to the end of the temporary wage subsidy scheme (TWSS). In addition, average input prices rose for the third month running, and at the fastest rate since February. Firms reported increased labour costs due to the end of the TWSS, additional costs for PPE and higher shipping charges. Looking forward, service providers here expect growth of activity over the next 12 months. However, the strength of confidence slipped for the third month running. Excluding March, April and May this year, during the most severe phase of the coronavirus lockdown, sentiment in September was the weakest since 2010. Meanwhile, business lobby group Ibec has warned that Ireland is likely to face strong competition in attracting new investment over the coming months. This is due to multinationals deferring or cancelling major investment decisions on the back of the economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic. In its third-quarter economic outlook, Ibec said Ireland is facing a K-shaped recovery from the economic impact of Covid-19. A K-shaped recovery means that some sectors are trading robustly through uncertainty, whilst others face a hugely challenging outlook. In the three months to June 30, Irish exports remained robust, but domestic demand collapsed by 20pc. "Honeymoon is not about playing with animals" - Opposition leader advises Zambian President's newly married daughter not to waste time and start making babies Prominent Zambian opposition leader, Chilufya Tayali, said couple shouldn't waste time in starting a family immediately after wedding, adding that his partymembers will ban all contraceptive advertisements if they come into power. Mr Tayali, the President of the Economic and Equity Party (EEP) stated this while commenting on the pictures of Zambian President Edgar Lungu's daughter Tasila and her husband Patrick interacting with animals on their honeymoon. "Honeymoon is not just about playing with animals. "It's time to get busy and strengthen the marriage, the two families of the man and woman, grow wealth and secure the future generations," Tayali said. He said if his party came into power, it would ban contraceptive advertisements running in the media, because Zambia's population was too small for the "big and rich Country we have." "Look at me, when I got my first wife, from Rwanda, I wasted no time to cause her crave for fresh fish and our first born is now 17 years doing University. I allowed her to breathe for her body to get back in shape and I brought in the second one. Had we continued with our marriage, we would have been counting 5 by now," he said. "I am now with Tsega and we are just over a year of our marriage and Kiya is 4 months. We will allow her to grow and let my wife get back in shape as she gets a job, because she is a full time qualified accountant, then.....you can guess," Tayali added. He said under his administration, families and reproduction will be highly encouraged but those who adopt children will get more incentives, because he did not want children to be without parents as that was not African. "So, Patrick and Tasila, those lions should turn into children sooner than later," Tayali demanded. Read full post below: PATRICK AND TASILA SHOULD NOT WASTE TIME, THEY SHOULD MAKE BABIES, IT'S PART OF EEP POLICIES, OF "FAMILIES MUST COME FIRST " This article is both my part of my family values and political ideology, so don't take it as a joke, read it carefully and don't be lazy READ TO THE END. Firstly, I want to thank Patrick and Tasila for being humble and patriotic, they are really walking in the aspirations of Economic and Equity Party (EEP) of appreciating local products and services. It is important that a lot of us take pride in our Country. I know if Tasila was like my Bemba girls, they would have wanted to fly to Bahamas for the honeymoon, blow a lot of dollars causing the exchange rate to shoot up. What Patrick and Tasila has done is helping in keeping jobs, paying Taxes and keeping the wheels of the economy turning, this is the only way we can develop. Moving forward I want to say that a honeymoon is not just about playing with animals, it's time to get busy and strengthen the marriage, the two families of the man and woman, grow wealth and secure the future generations. It's nonsensical to talk about contraception for two people who just got married, rather you should be talking of boosters in terms of bedroom jobs and fertility. When EEP comes in power we will ban some of these contraceptive advertisements running in the media, because Zambia's population is too small for the big and rich Country we have. Look at me, when I got my first wife, from Rwanda, I wasted no time to cause her crave for fresh fish and our first born is now 17 years doing University. I allowed her to breathe for her body to get back in shape and I brought in the second one. Had we continued with our marriage, we would have been counting 5 by now. I am now with Tsega and we are just over a year of our marriage and Kiya is 4 months. We will allow her to grow and let my wife get back in shape as she gets a job, because she is a full time qualified accountant, then.....you can guess. Much as I am separated from my first wife, our relationship will last forever, because of children. Diplomatic tires with Rwanda are also naturally sealed, especially when I will be President. No matter how my wife may not like Zambia because it is under developed, she has no choice to renounce the Country or me, because her first born child is Zambian. Our diplomatic relationship with Ethiopia is naturally stronger and we will work with them to realise my United States of Africa which was started by great leaders like Col. Gaddafi, killed by the Westerners who are killing our unborn children using contraceptives and abortions, then Kwame Nkhruma the great Panafricanist. Trust me, when I come to rule Zambia, it will not be business as usual, we will have to claim our heritage and our wealth. Zambia will be on the World Map for strong values, independence not only in what we do but what we won as well. I will not accept laziness and corruption. Getting back to Patrick and Tasila, as well as other new couples, don't waste time playing, that is for those who are not married. When you get married it is time to make babies. Of course I am aware of those who may not be able to have children (biologically) in their marriage, but that is because they are selfish otherwise they would still have children. They are so many orphans why should you stay alone in the pretext that you can't conceive. Go get children from the orphanages and be parents. Lastly, for Country to develop, we need numbers. Zambia's economy will not grow exponentially, unless our population increases. There is no big economic without people to grow it, which is why EEP starts with fundamentals of "FAMILY MUST COME FIRST!". Under my administration, families and reproduction will be highly encouraged. But those who adopt children will get more incentives, because I want no child to be without parents, it's not African. I don't want street children, they should be in homes or Govt social welfare. So, Patrick and Tasila, those lions should turn into children sooner than later. With what I have said here, you can now understand when I say: TAYALI THE MARRIED MAN - FAMILIES MUST COME FIRST! EEP - PEOPLE MAKE A NATION! ZAMBIA MUST BE OWNED BY ZAMBIANS! 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 Panaji, Oct 5 : The 2018 award of the Mhadei Interstate Water Dispute Tribunal award is damaging to Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said on Monday. He also said that the state government would be filing a contempt petition in the Supreme Court on Tuesday against Karnataka for already diverting water from the Mhadei river basin, despite Goa's special leave petition pending before the apex court. "The 2018 award was damaging to Goa," Sawant told a press conference. He said that along with the contempt petition, Goa would provide evidence to prove that water was indeed being diverted from the Mhadei river basin through the Kalasa-Banduri canal, which aims to supply the water to the deficit basin of the Malaprabha river, ostensibly for drinking purposes. The Mhadei river originates in Karnataka and meets the Arabian Sea at Panaji, after briefly flowing through Maharashtra. The Inter-State Water Dispute Tribunal, set up by the Central government, after hearing the over two-decade old dispute between Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra over Mhadei river water sharing, had, in its award in August 2018, allotted 13.42 thousand million cubic feet (TMC) from the Mhadei river basin (including 3.9 TMC for diversion into the depleted Malaprabha river basin) to Karnataka. Maharashtra has been allotted 1.33 TMC. The Goa government had subsequently filed a special leave petition challenging some provisions of the award. A recently published Washington Post investigative report details how the Trump administration assembled a force of National Guard troops from various states in Washington, DC last June in de facto contravention of the 1878 Posse Comitatus Act to suppress anti-police violence protests. The Post report, titled How Trump amassed a red-state army in the nations capitaland could do so again, is a confirmation of the analysis made by the World Socialist Web Site, which reported a day after the event that the Republican president was seeking to carry out a coup detat. Trump planned to invoke the 1807 Insurrection Act and deploy active-duty troops to suppress the nationwide protests that erupted following the police murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. This would effectively overthrow the US Constitution and establish a presidential dictatorship based on sections of the military, the police and far-right militia forces. Ahead of the first debate between Trump and Biden, the Ohio National Guard directs traffic away from the debate hall, Tuesday, September 29, 2020, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak) The WSWS warned that although Trump was forced to pull back on June 1 due to resistance from the military brass, which considered such a move reckless, premature and unprepared, the coup conspiracy would continue. This has been confirmed by Trumps refusal to accept an election defeat and his open plans to steal the presidential election by bringing a far-right justice onto the Supreme Court and mobilizing fascist supporters to attack popular opposition to such a move. On June 1, federal agents armed with gas grenades, flash bang devices and other weapons attacked and detained hundreds of peaceful protesters on the streets surrounding the White House. In the days prior, Trump declared that his intent was to establish total domination of Washington, where the federal government maintains control of the Districts National Guard. The Post investigation demonstrates that in lieu of invoking the Insurrection Act, the administration circumvented federal laws banning the use of the military for domestic policing, utilizing an obscure clause in the 2007 National Defense Authorization Act. According to the Post account, Trump, worrying that the images [of mass protests] showed the country as out of control, sought to augment Washington D.C.s relatively small number of National Guard troops. The president put out a call to commanding officers of all 50 states to send reinforcements. The states responding affirmatively to the call were overwhelmingly controlled by Republicans. Over 98 percent of the 3,800 troops that arrived in the District came from states with Republican governors, the newspaper notes. On June 1, Secretary of Defense Mark Esper requested that governors provide 3,800 guardsmen toward that effort, pursuant to 32 USC 502(f). This law, 32 United States Code 502, pertains to National Guard training and exercises. It determines that a member of the National Guard may support operations or missions undertaken by the members unit at the request of the President or Secretary of Defense. The invocation of 32 USC 502(f) means that cooperating state National Guards are not bound by the Posse Comitatus Act, as they remain under their states jurisdiction and are not officially federalized under the command of the US president. Only under the Insurrection Act can National Guard units be formally placed under the command of the president for the purpose of policing the population. At the time, the Washington D.C. National Guard posted on social media, We are serving as much meals or more as we would be in a forward location in Afghanistan or Iraq. It referred to more than 5,200 guardsmen activated in support of a civil unrest mission. Writing in June of Trumps invocation of this legal loophole for calling out troops, Steve Vladeck of the Lawfare blog called it a stunningly broad authorization for the president to use the military at any time and for any reason, including as a backdoor around the Posse Comitatus Act. Vladeck further explained that options did exist allowing Washington D.C.s Democratic mayor, Muriel Bowser, to bring in law enforcement from other states. But for transparently political reasons, Trump circumvented local Democratic Party officials and used the 32 USC 502(f) loop hole to appeal directly to sympathetic state governors for troops. Further blurring the lines as to which governmentstate or federalhad jurisdiction over the various National Guard units was Secretary of Defense Espers June 5 order for them to begin disarming and leaving the city. The clause used to circumvent Posse Comitatus was inserted into the National Defense Authorization Act of 2007, during the George W. Bush administration. Nobody writing this new provision likely viewed it as ever becoming some sort of work around for the Insurrection Act, stated former US Air Force Command attorney John Dehn, who explained that the clauses initial intention was to deal with terrorism. While the Post report states that Democratic Party-led state governments were incredulous at Trumps demands, with only the Democratic governor of New Jersey complying with the call, this is largely due to these states seeking to maintain forces for deployment within their own jurisdictions. The Post quotes Maj. General David Baldwin of the California National Guard, who rebuffed Trumps demands because I have other things to worry about. Baldwin headed up the force under multiple Democratic governors, and claimed his troops were already stretched thin by dozens of planned protests. And while most Democratic Party-led state governments refused to cooperate directly with Trump, they did not make any effort to defend the Constitution. The Post quotes Clark Mercer, chief of staff for Democratic Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, who refused to send troops to the capital, explaining, What if you send them and something happens, and theyre not even wanted. Thats a potentially very bad situation. As of yet, no other major media outlet has commented on the Post report or denounced the Trump administrations effort to subvert the Constitution. And, stretching the definition of "emergency use", Beijing reportedly has allowed its state-owned Sinopharm to distribute its vaccine candidate to some 350,000 people in China and is preparing to issue it yet more widely. Priority is given to people who need to travel abroad, such as aid workers and business people. Is it irresponsible for China's authorities to allow a vaccine to be handed out before its phase three trials are finished? Yes, it is. Is it an effective way of pushing the pace in its contest with the West and getting attention in other countries? You bet. The West may yet triumph in the quest for a vaccine, but whoever wins will attain a lot of bragging points. Even more influential will be which country can not only come up with a vaccine but distribute it widely around the world. This is what China's President Xi Jinping promised once again in his virtual address to the UN General Assembly last month while ignoring Donald Trump's complaints about the "China virus" at the same forum. Illustration: Dionne Gain Credit:SMH This is the culmination of a contest of models China versus the US that China has been promoting for over a decade. In 2009, after the US had led most of the Western world into banking failures and economic collapse, the Chinese Communist Party mouthpiece People's Daily boasted of China's economic success and editorialised: "The 'China model' has created miracles, opened a unique path of development and superseded the belief in a superior 'American model', marking its demise." A year later Hillary Clinton, the US secretary of state at the time, agreed that China held considerable appeal for many countries. "There are those who look at China and say, 'Well, gosh, they're growing at 9, 10 per cent a year and they're keeping the lid on.' And if you're an authoritarian mindset then that might be attractive," she told me in an interview. LYON, France: A 29-year-old Algerian man is going on trial in Paris Monday accused of killing a policewoman and trying to blow up a church near Paris, a failed 2015 attack that investigators say was orchestrated by Islamic State extremists in Syria. Instead of bombing a Sunday Mass in the Paris suburb of Villejuif, Sidi Ahmed Ghlam shot himself in the leg, and was soon arrested. The incident came amid a series of Islamist extremist attacks in 2015-2016 that rocked France. Another Paris court is currently holding a two-month trial into January 2015 attacks that killed 17 people at satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo and a kosher supermarket. While all the gunmen in those attacks were killed by police, Ghlam survived his attempted bombing three months later, and begins a monthlong trial starting Monday on charges of murder and attempted terrorist murder. Ghlam, who faces life in prison if convicted, denies wrongdoing. Nine other defendants will be tried alongside him. Seven are believed to have provided logistical assistance such as weapons and protective vests. The other two are extremists accused of guiding his attempted attack, who are believed to be in Syria and possibly dead. The third sponsor, Abdelhamid Abaaoud, was killed by police after allegedly coordinating the worst attacks on France since World War II, coordinated assaults on Nov. 13, 2015, on the Bataclan concert hall in Paris, Frances national stadium and multiple cafes. Ghlam had been on the radar of authorities in Algeria and France for his proximity to IS. Investigators say he traveled to Turkey in late 2014 and early 2015 where he met Abaaoud and the other operatives. On April 19, 2015, policewoman Aurelie Chatelain was shot to death in her car, which had been set on fire, near a church in Villejuif. Soon afterward, Ghlam called for help, claiming to have been the victim of gunfire near his home, in the 13th arrondissement or district of Paris, not far from Villejuif. Doctors notified police. Police believe Ghlam shot Chatelain and was in fact planning to carry out an attack against the Villejuif church. According to investigators, Ghlam had to give up attacking the church after accidentally shooting himself in the leg while trying to put his weapon back in his belt. Ghlam told investigators that he intentionally shot himself in the thigh, having second thoughts about carrying out the planned massacre. He says the policewoman was accidentally killed by an accomplice named Hamza. None of the other suspects has mentioned this supposed accomplice. Many weapons were found in his car and at home, and his computers showed frequent links to Syria. Ghlam acknowledged to investigators having been in contact and guided by three IS operatives: Abaaoud, Abdelnasser Benyoucef and Samir Nouad. Benyoucef is also the alleged sponsor of Amdy Coulibaly, the gunman in the January 2015 kosher supermarket attack. Benyoucef and Nouad, a member of Algerian Islamist militant group GIA in the 1990s, are believed to have died in suicide attacks in Syria, and are being tried in absentia in the Villejuif case. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor Marcellus, NY - Marcellus High School is switching to remote instruction today after a high school teacher tested positive for the coronavirus, the district said. Superintendent Michelle Brantner told parents in a letter that the district learned of the positive case Sunday night, and decided to close the high school for in-person instruction to give contact tracers a chance to complete their task. The Onondaga County Health Department will notify people who are considered to be in close contact with the staff member who tested positive. In addition, all students in both the A and B cohorts who attend a half-day program at any BOCES also arent in attendance today. Elizabeth Doran covers education, suburban government and development, breaking news and more. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact her anytime at 315-470-3012 or email edoran@syracuse.com NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 5, 2020 / Startups face a number of difficulties when trying to raise capital and expand globally. GSD Venture Studios travels the world inviting resilient teams to establish partnerships to ensure organizations grow the right way. Unlike traditional investors, they take senior operational (often co-founder) roles in these companies, capitalizing on their trusted reputation, experiences and network to drive explosive growth. International companies typically feel locked into just one country when attempting to expand. GSD has helped many international startups with innovative products and services establish a footprint in Silicon Valley and beyond. And now they are thrilled to be announcing the launch of their premier accelerator called GSD Labs, which will focus exclusively on helping technology startups enter the US. They have designed GSD Labs to fully prepare companies before they either enter a US accelerator or become a GSD partner. GSD co-founders Gary Fowler and Derek Distenfield will serve as the lead mentors for GSD Labs. Gary is the CEO, President and Co-Founder of GSD serving as the driving sales generation force as well as one of the lead mentors for all GSD portfolio companies. He takes a senior operational role in each GSD-backed startup, putting several decades of expertise behind them. Previously, he co-founded top CIS accelerators GVA and SKOLKOVO Startup Academy, where over 30% of the companies went on to achieve success. He has founded 11 companies, including Yva.ai and DY Investments, and has a successful IPO and CKSW under his belt. His extensive experience with both the AI industry andthe Russian startup community enables him to quickly spot promising young companies and identify those primed for explosive global growth. As a result, he builds strong relationships with founders and teams who are bold enough to#GoGlobal. "We are thrilled to be launching our 10-week accelerator program; GSD Labs to help international startups make powerful strides in Silicon Valley" - Gary Fowler Story continues Derek Distenfield is the COO and Co-Founder of GSD. He is passionate about breaking barriers, leading innovation, and inspiring people to believe they can achieve. Known for bringing revolutionary new ideas to organizations that deliver explosive growth and for being efficient with limited resources, Derek's high tolerance for ambiguity and complexity makes him an invaluable source of inspiration and advice for growth-oriented startups and founders. He is also a mentor and startup business advisor for GrowthX, Google Pioneer Accelerator, and LifeFlip Media as well as a columnist for Forbes and a college lecturer at Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. Derek is the operational mastermind who brings a variety of resources together to best serve each portfolio company. "We are committed to helping startups with a dream to bring their world-class products to the global market" - Derek Distenfield In their years of experience spearheading startup growth, they are intimately familiar with the multitude of challenges faced when trying to raise capital and expand globally. GSD Labs is committed to focusing on the 3 biggest ones. Fueling Sales What people truly care about is how you can help them, not what you do. Using the right branding, messaging, and Silicon Valley sales and marketing hacks that create buzz, traction and repeatable sales models that will have US customers flocking to you. Take Off with Funding The leading companies in the world define new categories then dominate and monopolize them. And the top way to do this is to raise money from within the Silicon Valley community. Being able to demonstrate to VCs not only traction but how you are 10x better than anyone else out there is how we help startups secure funding. Land with Structure Once a startup has landed in the US they need to have the right structure and follow the correct regulations. GSD Labs makes sure they can navigate the political, cultural, and legal dynamics necessary in order to be as successful as possible. It all starts with a 10-week virtual accelerator leading up to a demo-day with US investors. They will bring in industry experts with global reputations to help companies navigate the minefield that includes US sales, marketing, and traction. What their panel of experts will be offering: Demo day to invite-only investors Advisor matching with pre-screened experts Accelerator application help Sales hacks for US market Press coverage and digital marketing Strategic partnerships Expert storytelling to help navigate cultural & political dynamics Companies will receive $2500 in free legal assistance from K&L Gates law firm, a free subscription to Carta, and discounts from world-renowned corporate storyteller and pitch alchemist Donna Griffit. Plus other useful and valuable insights for growing their business globally. If you are an international founder you might be wondering if you qualify. What GSD Labs is seeking are the top English-speaking, technology companies that have a revenue of $0-500k USD, are located outside of the United States and have the resilience and drive for what it takes to #GoGlobal. Company: GSD Venture Studios Email: hello@gsdvs.com Phone number: 646.823.4209 Website: www.gsdvs.com SOURCE: GSD Venture Studios View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/609084/GSD-Venture-Studios-Gary-Fowler-Launches-New-Accelerator-GSD-Labs Michael O'Donovan Cork City Chairperson of Vintners Federation of Ireland pictured at the reopening of his pub The Castle Inn, Cork city. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision PUBLICAN Michael O'Donovan warned that the threat of Level Five Covid-19 restrictions has come as "a nightmare blow" for Ireland's struggling pub industry. Mr O'Donovan, who runs The Castle Inn in Cork, said it was beyond cruel to have publicans face the closure of their premises just two weeks after they reopened. "I think everyone needs to understand that this will be a nightmare blow - not just for publicans but for the entire hospitality and tourism industry and wider economy." "The reality is that a lot of businesses may not return from this." Read More Mr O'Donovan said he feels particularly aggrieved because pubs have not been the cause of the spike in Covid-19 cases but yet are going to effectively pay the price for it. "It is just not fair. We were closed since March to keep virus numbers down. So what happened?" "It will be heartbreaking for the pubs here in Cork - we only opened on September 21 after 190 days closed." "We have spent a lot of money getting stock in and filling fridges. A lot of that stock is perishable and will go out of date in November." "So if we have to close for these Level Five restrictions, how long will we be closed for? Financially it could have very serious implications for the pub sector in Cork and across the country." He also warned that the constant fear of imminent closure is taking its toll on small Irish business owners. "There is also the mental health aspect for publicans. Three times we built ourselves up to re-open in July, August and then in early September. But we didn't get to open until the end of September." "If we have to close again after less than two weeks open, mentally it is going to be very hard to prepare ourselves for having to go through it all again to reopen." In a significant capability demonstration amid border tensions with China, India on Monday successfully tested supersonic missile-assisted release of torpedo (SMART) from a defence facility off the Odisha coast, the defence ministry said. The capability will allow India to target enemy submarines at long ranges, officials said. The system is a missile-assisted release of lightweight anti-submarine torpedo to strike targets way beyond the latters range. All the mission objectives including missile flight up to the (desired) range and altitude, separation of the nose cone, release of torpedo and deployment of velocity reduction mechanism (VRM) have been met perfectly, a ministry statement said. This launch and demonstration is significant in establishing anti-submarine warfare capabilities, it added. Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) chief G Satheesh Reddy said SMART was a game changer technology demonstration in the realm of anti-submarine warfare. Tracking stations (radars, electro optical systems) along the coast and the telemetry stations including ships monitored all the events related to the flight test, the officials said. The @DRDO_India has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART. This will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare. I congratulate DRDO and other stakeholders for this significant achievement. Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 5, 2020 Experts said it was an old idea that could find a new application as a land-based delivery system or a ship-borne weapon too. A rocket or missile-launched torpedo is a weapon delivery arrangement that was introduced decades ago by the Soviet as well as the US navies, said maritime affairs expert Rear Admiral Sudarshan Shrikhande (retd). He said these were capable of striking at relatively shorter ranges with torpedoes or even nuclear depth charges. He said as ship-borne helicopters improved and maritime patrol aircraft became better equipped with sensors; missile-launched torpedo systems did not find favour as onboard weapon and launcher volumes were prioritised for anti-ship, land attack and anti-air missiles. However, if accurate submarine targeting info is available, then a long-range ordnance delivery capability, especially from ashore could be something that will be useful once again. After all, at this moment, land-based anti-submarine warfare patrol aircraft that can deliver ordnance at long ranges are amongst the most effective ways to target submarines. So, a supersonic missile capable of a few hundred kms flight can, in theory, drop a capable lightweight torpedo at the best-known position of an enemy submarine, Shrikhande said. He said an effective torpedo as the payload was very important. Ultimately, the deployment of the SMART system would depend on costs and mission needs of the navy, he added. India has conducted a series of significant weapon tests in recent weeks. On Saturday, India tested a new version of the nuclear-capable hypersonic Shaurya missile that has a range of 750 km, days after the extended-range BrahMos supersonic cruise missile was successfully tested. The cruise missile can hit targets 400 km away --- its range increased from the existing 290 km. On September 7, India took the first steps towards developing a new class of ultra-modern weapons that can travel six times faster than the speed of sound (Mach 6) and penetrate any missile defence, with the DRDO carrying out a successful flight test of the hypersonic technology demonstrator vehicle (HSTDV) for the first time. Only the United States, Russia and China have developed technologies to field fast-maneuvering hypersonic missiles that fly at lower altitudes and are extremely hard to track and intercept. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON While her popularity remains high, it is yet to be seen whether Labor will translate that into election-winning support, with recent polling showing the LNP has a slight lead. Polling suggests Ms Palaszczuk is more popular than her rival, Opposition Leader Deb Frecklington, but the LNP is more popular than Labor. The election result could come down to how much the pandemic will play into people's votes and whether regional Queensland is still out of love with Labor. Where is the election likely to be won and lost? The LNP dominates the Gold Coast and south-west Queensland, while Labor holds most of the seats around Brisbane, Logan and Ipswich. Queenslands LNP needs to wrest nine seats from Labor and the crossbench if it wants to form government in its own right. The LNP has named 11 seats it will target during the campaign: Gaven, Townsville, Maiwar, Mundingburra, Aspley, Redlands, Barron River, Whitsunday, Mansfield, Maryborough and Mirani. The possibility of a hung parliament has been raised in the senior ranks of both major parties, and such an eventuality could give the balance of power to Katter's Australian Party, the Greens, One Nation or independent MPs. The LNP or minor parties need only to snap up two Labor seats and Ms Palaszczuk would lose her ability to form a majority government. If that were the case, both major parties would look to stitch up a government with the help of minor parties, as was the case in 2015. However, both leaders ruled this out on Monday, casting serious doubt about what will happen if neither can secure enough seats for a majority. Regionally focused minor parties are jostling to increase their share of and influence on the crossbench. The most marginal seats for Labor are: Townsville (0.4 per cent); the Gold Coast-based seat of Gaven (0.7 per cent); and Mundingburra, which covers the southern part of Townsville (1.1 per cent). The LNP seats balancing on a knife edge are: Burdekin, just south of Townsville (0.8 per cent); Pumicestone, which includes Caboolture and Bribie Island (0.8 per cent); and the Gold Coast-based seat of Bonney (1.1 per cent). Who is retiring? Queensland Parliament is losing decades' worth of experience with the retirement of six politicians. Tourism Minister Kate Jones, Mines Minister Anthony Lynham and Communities Minister Coralee O'Rourke will not contest their seats. The LNP will bid farewell to veteran Mark McArdle, who has represented Caloundra for close to 17 years, long-serving Hervey Bay MP Ted Sorensen and Simone Wilson, who holds the ultra-marginal seat of Pumicestone. What issues will politicians talk about? The pandemic is set to play a major role in the campaign, with some political observers suggesting it has effectively been under way for months. This has given an early insight into how the campaigns will play out. Labor will push to keep focus on its relatively good record on stopping community transmission of COVID-19 and its plans to get the economy moving again. Labor will put the Premier front and centre in a presidential-style campaign. The LNP, which eventually backed strong border closures after pushing to see them opened, will zero in on Labor's track record before the pandemic. Ms Frecklington, a self-described "big, bold supporter of the resources industry", will speak a lot about mining jobs in the regions as well as crime rates. Both major parties are already pitching big-ticket infrastructure items such as highway upgrades, expanded hospitals, resource projects (both renewable and fossil-fuel) and ambitious water plans as a way of creating jobs to help climb out of the coronavirus downturn in the years ahead. Beyond this, both major parties will attempt to drag out some skeletons of the past: the LNP with previous and varied integrity sagas weathered by the government, and Labor with the public sector cuts and privatisation pushes seen when the LNP last held power. What do voters care about? As is the case in most elections, it depends a little on where they live. With the pandemic and recession at the front of mind, many voters will be looking to see which party has a better economic plan to create jobs and protect livelihoods. Some will reward the incumbent Labor government with a vote for its handling of the virus, while others who have taken issue with controversial exemptions will punish the party at the ballot box. Plans to help the tourism industry get back on its feet will be of particular interest up and down the Gold Coast and further north along the Great Barrier Reef. The prominence, potential and direction of the resource sector will be important in mining communities in regional Queensland. Policies to tackle youth crime will be drawcards in places such as Mount Isa, suburban south-east centres and Townsville, where heightened concerns have been raised. Drought continues to be at the forefront of voters' minds in large swathes of the state. About 70 per cent of Queensland is now drought-declared. An election official sanitises the ballot boxes on polling day. Credit:Jono Searle/Getty Images With most Queenslanders relying on cars to get to work particularly outside the confines of the capital the state of the roads is a big-ticket item for many. In and around Brisbane, public transport will also have a hand on the wheel. Who are the leaders and what will a loss mean for their political future? Ms Palaszczuk hopes to become the state's longest-serving Labor premier since World War II. Ms Frecklington wants to lead the state's conservative party to what would be its second election win since 1989. It is the first time in Australia's federal or state political history that two female leaders will vie for the top job. Hell is likely to freeze over before the south-west Brisbane seat of Inala is lost by Labor. Ms Palaszczuk has held the seat since 2006, and her father Henry Palaszczuk was the member for 22 years before his daughter took the reins. Future opposition loeader Deb Frecklington celebrating a friend's 21st (left) and future premier Annastacia Palaszczuk in the Whitsundays. If Labor loses the state election it would be very unlikely Ms Palaszczuk would move to the opposition benches after six years as Premier. She would probably resign from Parliament, as Ms Bligh did in 2012 after her humiliating defeat to Campbell Newman, with a byelection to be held shortly after. Ms Frecklington has held her safe seat of Nanango since 2012 and is not at risk of losing it later this month. She would be unlikely to survive as leader if Labor forms government, after having a three-year run as opposition leader. The party room would decide who would step in as leader, but Ms Frecklington would probably stay on as a local member, as her predecessors Tim Nicholls and Lawrence Springborg did after their respective defeats. How can I vote? Election day is on October 31, but the government has organised an "election period rather than an election day", to help with social distancing. For those who want the full election-day experience, sausage sizzle and all, the Electoral Commission of Queensland will publish details of polling booth locations on its website closer to the election. Your Milli-Q water purification system is a sophisticated instrument that contains highly sensitive and complex technologies. Get the best performance from your purification system from the people who designed and built it. We provide a range of services and service plans to meet the different needs of our customers. Our Milli-Q-certified field service engineers provide on-site professional support for the installation, validation, and maintenance of your individual and total water solutions. And now, new MyMilli-Q online solution simplifies system management, streamlines audit preparation, and maximizes lab productivity. MyMilli-Q online solution is our digital service that simplifies Milli-Q water system management. Some of the time-saving tasks that can be accomplished by logging into your MyMilli-Q account include tracking service history, scheduling maintenance visits, renewing your service plan, and managing consumable orders. Our range of best-in-class Milli-Q Service Plans can be tailored to match your labs application, quality and budgetary needs. All plans include an annual Preventive Maintenance Visit consisting of a comprehensive check of system specifications, replacement of aging parts with our Maintenance Kit, hydraulics and mechanics inspection, and much more. Visits are accompanied with a detailed diagnostic report and traceable record of care. Replacement parts are always genuine, having passed stringent quality tests and are ISO 9001-certified. We can also provide assistance for regulated environments with our Milli-Q Service Pharma Plans. These plans are designed to ensure you are fully compliant when audited, covering all elements required for full system requalification (qualification protocols, maintenance procedures and qualification test equipment). Additional support services are available to meet your labs specific needs, including installation services, tank and loop sanitization, and customized user training. Key features of Milli-Q Services: A10 Networks has announced its participation as a sponsor of the virtual Mena Information Security Conference 2020, that is currently taking place here from October 5 to 6. This is the fourth year in a row that the company is sponsoring the event. A10 Networks has a keynote speaking slot with the theme The Evolution of Networks from Cyber Resistance to Resilience - in an Age of Smart Cities, Digital Economies & IoT, which will be delivered by Yasir Liaqatullah, VP of Product Management at A10 Networks. Hesham Elsherif, Principal System Engineer at the company will conduct a technical workshop focused on educating attendees about decryption of SSL /TLS flows, which is a pillar of the Zero Trust model. Enterprise networks are evolving. IoTs proliferation is going through the roof, driven by smart city initiatives and industry 4.0. These massive IoT smart devices will inevitably be compromised and will become a zombie army. Legacy solutions involving detection of an attack using sampled traffic and analysing the data manually will not work as that is akin to finding a needle in a haystack. New solutions need to be inline, ML and AI-based, fully automated, totally integrated and capable of operating at hyperscale, says Liaqatullah. Mena Information Security Conference is one of the regions premier infosec events. We see it as a great platform to engage in high-level discussions with regional organisations about modern-day security challenges and how they can prepare their networks today for the cyber threats of tomorrow. A10 Networks portfolio of secure application services solutions are engineered to accelerate and secure the most important enterprise and service providers networks in the world. The companys on-premises and cloud-native security solutions protect your applications and infrastructure against cyberattacks, including multi-vector DDoS attacks and malware in encrypted traffic. With A10 Networks secure application services solutions, organisations can provide security, performance, and availability for application delivery that can be on-premises, cloud, or hybrid. Mena Information Security 2020 is an annual security conference, organised by VirtuPort and hosting world-class keynote speakers, panelists and delegates. -- Tradearabia News Service A new Silicon Valley drama series is in development at ABC from former Hearst Magazines chief content officer Joanna Coles and How to Get Away With Murder creator Pete Nowalk. Called Valley of the Gods, the potential series has a production commitment and would be produced by ABC Signature Studios where Coles is under a first-look deal. Nowalk would write and serve as executive producer with Coles. The network describes the series as a drama about the most powerful people in Silicon Valley and the hungry, underestimated outsiders trying to claw their way in. Also Read: Sarah Cooper on Ignoring Advice That She's 'Too Old for TikTok' (Video) Coles is a media maven who broke into television after rising in the ranks of the journalism world. Her career began at the Daily Telegraph before joining the staff of The Guardian, where she became the New York bureau chief. She then went on to become the articles editor of New York Magazine, executive editor of More, editor in chief of Marie Clare and Cosmopolitan and later the first chief content officer of Hearst Magazines from 2016 to 2018. Her first TV project was co-creating and executive producing a reality series about... Read original story Valley of the Gods Drama From Joanna Coles and Pete Nowalk in Development at ABC At TheWrap Please register or log in to keep reading. No credit card required! Stay logged in to skip the surveys. They have formed a close friendship since appearing on the 2019 series of Love Island. And Francesca Allen and Maria Wild enjoyed a fun night out together in Chelsea, London, on Sunday. Francesca, 24, looked effortlessly chic in a pair of black trousers with a gold Champagne-coloured silk shirt tucked in. Fun: Francesca Allen and Maria Wild enjoyed a fun night out together in Chelsea, London, on Sunday (L-R) The reality star dressed for the cool autumnal weather and layered her look with a cropped black leather biker jacket. Adding some stylish touches, Francesca opted for a pair of nude heeled mules, gold jewellery and a black handbag. The fashionista styled her brunette locks into a glossy curly blow-dried hairdo and added a slick of glamorous make-up to enhance her pretty features. Elsewhere Maria, 23, put on a very leggy display in a pair of black hotpants with a burnt orange high-neck top. Chic: Francesca, 24, looked effortlessly chic in a pair of black trousers with a gold Champagne-coloured silk shirt tucked in Details: The reality star dressed for the cool autumnal weather and layered her look with a cropped black leather biker jacket Adding some finishing touches, the reality star opted for brown crocodile patterned knee-high boots and a black handbag. Maria styled her blonde locks into a wavy blow-dried hairdo and she added a slick of winged eyeliner and nude lipgloss. The duo were joined by a male companion for their fun outing in Chelsea as they all walked hand-in-hand. It has been a busy summer for the beauty despite the global pandemic, with Francesca enjoyed several holidays and her Instagram being littered with sizzling bikini snaps. Leggy! Elsewhere Maria, 23, put on a very leggy display in a pair of black hotpants with a burnt orange high-neck top Glamorous: Adding some finishing touches, the reality star opted for brown crocodile patterned knee-high boots and a black handbag Aside from her frequent getaways, Francesca was spotted cosying up to a new man during a boozy night out in London earlier this summer. She looked to be on cloud nine as she got up close and personal with Edward Crossan, vice chairman of London-based waste management company Powerday. The TV personality, who is family friends with Edward, put on a very affectionate display with the hunk who was previously been linked to TOWIE's Amber Turner. In May last year, Edward was seen enjoying a jaunt on a yacht in Ibiza with TOWIE star Amber, 27, who is currently dating Dan Edgar. The accomplished businessman was named vice chairman of his father's company in January and is featured on the company's website. MailOnline contacted Francesca's representatives for further comment at the time of publication. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 11:55:42|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Villagers in Zhashui County, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, have become better off by developing wood ear related industry. Chinese President Xi Jinping applauds the role of the small black fungus in poverty reduction as "small fungus, big industry." #XiJinping Petoskey High School band directors, assistant principal remain on administrative leave Superintendent Chris Parker addressed the situation regarding three band instructors and an assistant principal who are all currently on paid leave during Thursday's board of education meeting. RICHMOND, Va. - A bill that would have made it easier for local governments to remove Confederate monuments died Monday, as members of a state Senate committee seemed reluctant to revisit an issue thrust to the fore by this summer's racial-justice protests. Virginia's cities and counties lacked authority to remove war monuments on their own property until this year, when newly empowered Democrats in the House and Senate passed legislation in the regular General Assembly session that gave them the power to do so. The issue gained greater urgency even before the law took effect on July 1, as Confederate monuments became focal points for demonstrations in Richmond, Portsmouth and across the country after the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis police custody in May. When the legislature gathered in August for a special session, Del. Delores McQuinn, D-Richmond, proposed a bill to remove some hurdles that the new law requires local governments to clear before they can remove or alter monuments to any war. For instance, localities must provide public notice and observe two 30-day waiting periods. McQuinn contended that in an emergency, local leaders may have to move more quickly than the law allows. Amid unrest in the streets in July, Richmond Democratic Mayor Levar Stoney asserted that he had emergency powers to remove city-owned Confederate monuments without waiting 60 days, but his actions have been challenged in court. McQuinn's bill would have removed the waiting periods and notice requirement. Her measure passed the House last month on a vote of 54-43, with every Republican and one Democrat opposed. But its prospects were more uncertain in the narrowly divided Senate. Both chambers are controlled by Democrats, but the upper chamber - which tends to take a more cautious approach to many issues - was the one that had insisted on the waiting periods in the original bill. With the new law just three months old, it seemed too soon to remove the guardrails that made passage palatable to some conservative Democrats, Sen. Lynwood Lewis, D-Accomack, chairman of the Senate local government committee, said in an interview after the panel's vote. "This was pretty freshly plowed ground," Lewis said. McQuinn did not take part when the committee met virtually Monday to take up her bill. She was not available for an interview Monday, according to a staff member. Lewis said McQuinn had worked over the weekend on a substitute that would have lifted the restrictions on monument removal only in situations of civil unrest or emergencies. But, he said, she ultimately decided she needed more time and asked the committee to strike the bill, which she will bring back in revised form in January - something McQuinn's staffer confirmed. The committee voted unanimously to kill the bill - officially, to pass it by indefinitely - and to seek opinions on the measure from Attorney General Mark Herring, a Democrat, and the Department of Historic Resources. "I want a good analysis of what authority local governments already have if there's imminent danger," said Sen. Barbara Favola, D-Arlington. Del. Lamont Bagby, D-Henrico, chairman of the Legislative Black Caucus, called the vote "disappointing." "I can only imagine how frustrated Delegate McQuinn is right now, but I also appreciate her having the patience and persistence and willingness to approach it again in January," he said. "I just hope the individuals that opposed it in the Senate have the courage when it's time to address it in January." On October 4, France issued a maximum coronavirus alert for Paris and neighbouring suburbs amid the alarming resurgence of the COVID-19 infections in and across the capital. French Health Minister Olivier Veran said in a press address that he had no choice. Frances PM Office announced in a statement that Paris and three nearby counties will now be put under tightened restrictions as Pariss trademark bars and cafes were threatened with closure and penalties were warned to forestall any violations of the governments health safety guidelines. There was no alternative, and the sweeping measures would curb the soaring caseload from the second wave of the coronavirus, health minister Veran informed. He said that the maximum alert was issued for the counties Lille, Grenoble, Lyon, Saint-Etienne, and Toulouse where the coronavirus mounting figures have been a matter of worry. These towns were earlier placed under the advisory enhanced alert zones, while now have been switched to prohibitory maximum alert asking the businesses to shutter down and employees to work from home. We told the mayors of Lille, Grenoble, Lyon, Saint-Etienne and Toulouse that if the measures put in place do not produce enough effects, we could be led next week to place these territories in alert zone maximum , Health Minister Olivier Veran reminded in a live streamed address on LCI. No extra household gatherings, no extra evenings out, and complete closure of bars, read Frances PMO restrictive orders as cited by the local French weekly Paris Capital. The alert comes as France recorded an alarming 16,972 new confirmed coronavirus cases on October 4. A French tally service ARS calculated the rate of transmission at 250 per 100,000 that triggered alert orders already in effect in the southern counties Aix-en-Provence and Marseille and French abroad territory of Guadeloupe. The coronavirus cases are shooting up disproportionately, numbers are what theyre, and theyre weighing closely, Aurelien Rousseau, ARS director for the Paris reportedly warned. Read: US Rep Senator Mike Lee Tests Positive For Coronavirus Read: North Korea's Kim Wishes Trump Recovery From Coronavirus Incidence rate exceeding 100 French home minister Gerald Darmanin acknowledged the prohibitory orders calling the maximum alert a robust measure to curb infection wave. Further, he advised the French citizens to adhere to the restrictions and asked the bars and pubs to close down, adding the French like to drink, to eat but it was the need of the hour, in an interview with broadcaster LCI and Europe 1. Paris was currently on an incidence rate exceeding 100 in the elderly, and the hospitalization with Intensive Care is put at 30 percent in, Guadeloupe and the Aix-Marseille metropolis where mostly the elderly population resided. Read: UK PM Warns Of A bumpy Coronavirus Situation Until Christmas Read: Iraqi Pilgrims Start Trek Despite Coronavirus Spread The top Afghan negotiator in peace talks with the Taliban, Abdullah Abdullah, is slated to visit New Delhi later this week to muster support for the Afghan peace process and strengthen regional consensus. Abdullah will meet with Indian officials on Afghan peace and bilateral relations between and "The aim of the trip is to attract support for the Afghan peace and strengthen regional consensus. Dr Abdullah Abdullah will meet with Indian officials on Afghan peace and bilateral relations between and India," Abdullah's spokesman Fraidoon Khwazoon confirmed. Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation in Afghanistan, Abdullah's visit comes at a time when the government and are trying to negotiate a deal in order to restore peace in the country. Abdullah Abdullah last week visited Pakistan and discussed the Afghan peace process with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Foreign Minister and other Pakistani officials. Recently, it was reported that the negotiating teams of the Afghan government and are yet to begin direct talks to restore peace in the war-torn nation. The peace talks between the Afghanistan government and the began on September 12 in Qatar's capital Doha to end decades of war in which tens of thousands have been killed. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had participated in the opening ceremony of Afghan peace negotiations in Doha through video conferencing and reiterated that the peace process should be Afghan-led and ensure the interests of minorities and women. He said that Afghan soil should never be used for carrying out anti- activities and supported the need for an immediate ceasefire in order to establish long-lasting peace in Afghanistan. On September 25, Jaishankar had met former Afghan Vice President Abdul Rashid Dostum and said remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process. (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.) The YSR Congress Party chief and Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, sparking buzz that the party from Andhra Pradesh could join the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance. Speculation has been gaining ground that such a move is in the offing. Just last week, Shiromani Akali Dal, NDAs oldest ally, junked the alliance over its opposition to the controversial farm bills. Last year, it was the Shiv Sena, who jumped ship over the issue of chief ministership in Maharashtra. Jagan Reddy left for New Delhi on Monday evening and is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 10.30 am on Tuesday. The Prime Minister is likely to invite the YSRCP into the NDA to strengthen his hands, the party leader said. This is the second visit of the Andhra Pradesh chief minister in the last two weeks. On September 22, Jagan had a two-day visit to Delhi and met Union minister Amit Shah, supposedly to have preliminary discussions on the YSRCP joining the NDA, besides issues pertaining to the state. He, however, could not get the appointment of the Prime Minister then. VDP Associates, a data-analytics firm involved in election surveys, tweeted on Monday: BJP has reportedly offered 2 cabinet and 1 Minister of State (Independent) to YSRCP. Jagan asked to rush to Delhi for exclusive talks with PM Modi. However, the YSRCP leader quoted above said PM Modi might offer one cabinet and one minister of state post to the party in the government. With 22 MP seats, the YSRCP is the fourth largest national party. It also has six MPs in Rajya Sabha. From day one of coming into power in Andhra Pradesh in May 2019, Jagan has been maintaining friendly relations with the NDA government. The YSRCP has been supporting every decision of the Modi government both in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. While the NDAs long-term ally Akali Dal strongly resisted the farm bills, the YSRCP voted in favour of the same. The YSRCP MPs extended support to the BJP in the election of Harivansh Narayan Singh as deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha last week. The Jagan government also accepted the option given by the Modi government for going in for additional borrowings to offset the GST compensation payment by the Centre, though more than 12 states, including Telangana, opposed the same. Jagan also accepted Modi governments condition to implement power sector reforms as part of Atmanirbhar Bharat package, including fixing of meters to the agriculture sector so as to enhance its borrowing limits. If YSRCP joins the NDA, it will be a win-win situation for both Jagan as well as the BJP, says political analyst from Visakhapatnam Mallu Rajesh. The BJP is looking for new political allies after the quitting of Shiv Sena and Akali Dal and the YSRC can come in handy in passage of crucial bills, particularly in the Rajya Sabha. On the other hand, the YSRCP needs the support of the Modi government at the Centre to sustain the states financial position. At the same time, Jagan is still facing the CBI case in an alleged quid pro quo case, while his kin are under CBI scanner in connection with the murder of his uncle YS Vivekananda Reddy. Jagan is also keen on getting a CBI probe ordered into the alleged land scam in Amaravati involving his bete noire N Chandrababu Naidu. So, joining the NDA will make things easy for him, Rajesh said. In an interview to HT last month, Jagan made it clear that his party would place the interests of the state above everything else. Our support will be issue-based and will involve the betterment of our state in every aspect, he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Representative Image The Congress is likely to finalise some of its candidates for the Bihar assembly poll today when the party's central election committee may meet virtually. The Congress Screening Committee on Bihar met here on Sunday and is learnt to have discussed the names of probable candidates for the upcoming elections in the state. The meeting of the screening panel, headed by Avinash Pande, was attended by Congress in-charge for Bihar affairs Shakti Sinh Gohil, Bihar Congress chief Madan Mohan Jha and CLP leader Sadanand Singh among others. The central election committee (CEC) headed by party chief Sonia Gandhi is likely to meet on Monday to finalise some of the candidates that the screening panel will recommend. On Saturday, the opposition Grand Alliance in Bihar announced a seat-sharing formula for the upcoming assembly polls under which the Congress will contest 70 of a total 243 seats. The Bihar assembly polls will be held in three phases on October 28, November 3 and November 7, and the counting of votes will take place on November 10. The nomination process for the first phase, under which 71 of the total 243 seats will go to polls, began from October 1 and will end on October 8. MUMBAI: Two days after the All India Institute of Medical Sciences' (AIIMS) Forensic Medical Board, in its report ruled out the murder angle in Sushant Singh Rajput's death, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut retorted that there was a conspiracy to malign the image of Maharashtra and Mumbai Police since the beginning of the case. Without naming anyone or any political party in his speech, Raut questioned those who suspected that Sushant Singh death was due to murder and raised questions on the investigation carried out by Mumbai Police in the case. He also stated that the Dr. Sudhir Gupta, the head of AIIMS Forensic Medical Board, who submitted the report, has no political connection or any links to the ruling Shiv Sena. "Since the very beginning, in this case, there has been a conspiracy to malign Maharashtra government and Mumbai Police. If now CBI inquiry is also not being trusted, then we're speechless," he said. Commenting on the report Raut said, "It is as per the reports of Dr. Sudhir Gupta, who is the head of AIIMS Forensic Medical Board in Sushant Singh Rajput death case. He doesn't have any political connection or any links with Shiv Sena." Shiv Sena has accused the Opposition of using the family of Sushant Singh Rajput for political gain in the upcoming Bihar Assembly election. Live TV When appointed as a professor, Prof Ngo Bao Chau, the Fields medalist, thought he would be in more comfortable circumstances. But he was shocked when receiving the first month salary in France, because it was not enough to buy air tickets to fly to Vietnam. Prof Ngo Bao Chau On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of receiving Fields Medal, Chau recently gave a public lecture on the topic "Discussing scientific research, where he showed his path of doing research. People sometimes ask if I have ever thought of giving up scientific research. In general, the answer is no, but I really sometimes doubted my capability, Chau said. After winning the gold medal at the International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) when he was in 11th grade, Chau no longer felt excited about attending IMO the next year. At the time, he realized that there were many differences between advanced and elementary mathematics. He met Prof Doan Quynh, who once led the Vietnamese national team of selected students to attend IMO. The teacher gave him a book about advanced mathematics. But when reading the book, he did not understand anything. Later, he gave up and doubted his ability to learn theoretical mathematics. The same feeling came once more when he went to France. The study became more and more difficult. But luckily, he met Prof Gerard Laumon. The special teacher understood Chaus strength and weakness and applied an easily understandable teaching method, which helped Chau master mathematics knowledge. Chau found that the most important person in ones path of pursuing scientific research is the teacher. Choosing teachers is as important as choosing wife or husband. The scientific life of someone much depends on his early decision on choosing teachers. I was advised to study with a better known teacher, but I still decided to study with my teacher. He was then very young, but I had confidence in him and I ignored advice to follow him, he recalled the day when he began on the path of scientific research. Later, I realized that my teacher has a deep and profound vision. He always has a very new way of understanding and had a special view on the problems of mathematics, Chau said. Postdoc study, according to Chau, is a special period, when scientists have to become independent researchers and have to find issues and research methods themselves. One of the most difficult skills scientists need is self improvement all the time. An ambitious scientist needs to improve himself continuously. He never writes more than two articles on the same idea and always has a sense of finding new matters, he said. Chau related the story about how he decided to work on fundamental lemma. I did not want to be distracted by other problems anymore. So I decided to write to my colleagues, informing that I decided to withdraw from the research works I was doing. I decided to leave the 'safe zone' to go to a place full of risks, but that's really what I wanted to do, Chau said. Challenges for scientists According to Chau, there are always disadvantages for scientists, including the one in income. Also, scientists dont have much time for meetings with friends and social exchange. Scientists now can live on their career, and they dont have to make money from other extra jobs. Besides states funds, some private investment funds have taken shape to support scientific research. I had not had the concept of eating out until the age of 30-40. I also had rare communications with friends. I felt I did not have demand for this. This is the price for following scientific research, he said. As for his income, this is a problem for young scientists, he said. When he was in France, he was shocked several times about the income. When he was young, he thought he would not need much money, but just needed time to do research. He needed enough meals and a place to live. When he was appointed as professor, he thought he would be in more comfortable circumstances and there would be no need to worry too much about earning money. But he was shocked when receiving the first month salary: the amount of money was not enough to buy an air ticket to Vietnam. It was not because I was mistreated. But this is the situation in France. In the US, the income of scientists is also much lower than people taking other jobs. Some new graduates can receive the salary equal to the pay to a mathematics professor, he explained. However, he still encourages young people to do scientific research if they have passion. The conditions for scientists in Vietnam to do research are getting much better. Their efforts will be rewarded by society, he said. Scientists now can live on their career, and they dont have to make money from other extra jobs. Besides states funds, some private investment funds have taken shape to support scientific research. Therefore, scientists now can feel more comfortable to conduct scientific research, he said. Thanh Hung - Thuy Nga 19-year-old French student teaches mathematics in Vietnam Matheo Vergnolle, a 19-year-old French university student with great passion for mathematics, is working as a teacher in Vietnam. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 15:59:37|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BAGHDAD, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Two Katyusha rocket attacks targeted Baghdad airport and the heavily fortified Green Zone in the Iraqi capital on Monday without causing human casualty, the Iraqi military said. One of the attacks took place before dawn when two rockets were fired from al-Jihad neighborhood in southwestern Baghdad and landed on al-Jadriyah neighborhood near the Green Zone, without causing human casualty, the media office of the Joint Operations Command said in a statement. One of the rockets landed near a restaurant behind Babylon Hotel and the other landed near the office of the Iraqi Airways in Jadriyah, setting a civilian car on fire, the statement said. Earlier, another attack occurred after midnight when two Katyusha rockets landed near Baghdad international airport in southwestern the capital without causing casualties, a police source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity. Sirens were heard in the nearby Camp Victory, which houses U.S. troops, the source added. No group has so far claimed responsibility for the attacks, but Baghdad airport and the Iraqi military bases housing U.S. troops across Iraq, as well as the U.S. embassy in the Green Zone, have been frequently targeted by mortar and rocket attacks. According to media reports, U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Iraq earlier that the United States would close its embassy in Baghdad if the Iraqi government does not move to stop rocket attacks. Pompeo's warning prompted the Iraqi leaders to call on the United States to reconsider the decision of closing its embassy in Baghdad and pledged to control the arms and to protect diplomatic missions in the country. U.S. troops have been deployed in Iraq to support the Iraqi forces in the battles against the Islamic State militants, mainly providing training and advising to the Iraqi forces. Enditem A certain level of empathy and intelligence is expected from all of those who citizens elect to power. But it seems that both qualities that make a sought after politician are missing in Bharatiya Janata Party's leader and MLA Surendra Singh. The brutal Hathras rape of 19-year-old Dalit women shocked the nation. While most called for improving women's safety and educating men on consent, Surendra Singh recommends teaching girls good values and how to not get raped. BJP MLA Surendra Singh / ANI In a media address, Surendra Singh actually recommends parents to teach their daughters how to not get raped. "I am an MLA as well as a teacher. Rapes will stop only by values, not by law and order. It is the responsibility of parents to impart values which to their young daughter as to behave and dress appropriately in civil society," said Surendra Singh. #WATCH Incidents like these can be stopped with help of good values, na shashan se na talwar se. All parents should teach their daughters good values. It's only the combination of govt & good values that can make country beautiful: Surendra Singh, BJP MLA from Ballia. #Hathras pic.twitter.com/47AmnGByA3 ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) October 3, 2020 Thankfully, Bollywood celebrities took notice of this problematic statement by Surendra Singh and were quick to slam him for his ignorance and misogyny. Teach daughters how to not get raped??? Can he hear himself talk? THIS is the MINDSET that needs to change! Its so messed up! Why cant they give some sanskaar to their sons??? https://t.co/JXj9Tx6YOe Kriti Sanon (@kritisanon) October 3, 2020 To Stop rape we need to change the mentality of men like him who blame a woman for rape. We write A woman was raped instead of saying the man raped a woman.The stigma is always on a woman when it should be on the rapist.Teach this man to respect the womb that bore him first. https://t.co/OoOo50YimY Farah Khan (@FarahKhanAli) October 3, 2020 I agree. Family is important. Parents...raise your sons not to think like this creep. https://t.co/mrREJ6ciAA Vir Das (@thevirdas) October 4, 2020 How very kind of this gentleman to point this out. But what should a family do with the Sons? https://t.co/85sqZraHc9 Shruti Seth (@SethShruti) October 4, 2020 Speechless .., and people elect these morons .., and a party actually gives them tickets . With MLAs like those Hope is a distant dream https://t.co/RO56q8C2pv Onir (@IamOnir) October 4, 2020 Truly pathetic. If this is how people in power think forget the day capital punishment will be applicable for rapists in this country. LIMERICK City and County Council has green-lit 245,000 for 42 small-scale festivals over the next 12 months. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, almost a quarter of a million euro is in place following the approval from council members at the monthly meeting. As part of the application process this year, groups wishing to hold festivals were asked to submit a Covid-19 delivery plan, which demonstrated the ability to socially distance, as well as provide digital programming as a way to reach a wider audience. There was a huge response, and an assessment panel, made up of Mayor Michael Collins, chaired by Sharon O'Grady, the arts officer in Galway County Council whittled the applications down. Among the events being given money are the Limerick Sings festival (11,000), EV+a (8,000), Pigtown (7,000) and the Munster Fleadh Cheoil, which is set for Newcastle West next summer. This will get 20,000, with the event being axed this year due to the coronavirus lockdown. A Samhain Halloween festival is set for later this month, and this has been allocated 8,000, while Limerick Mental Health Week has been given 2,000. Northside Fine Gael councillor Olivia OSullivan has welcomed the allocation. Its important to note these are mostly voluntary groups and these applications can be a daunting task for volunteers to undertake, but, what each of these festivals and events contribute to Limerick life, culturally, socially, and economically, is priceless, she said, We need to thank each and every one of these 55 groups that applied, especially in this difficult year when events were cancelled for public safety - those who were successful and those who were not - for seeking to make an important contribution to their city and county. For a full rundown of the events given grant funding, click here Sydney beachgoers should expect to see rangers patrolling the sand and heed polite requests to go elsewhere during peak periods this summer, after the long weekend offered a test run for what the next few months of sunshine will look like in a COVID-19 environment. Thousands hit the city's beaches and settled one towel length away from each other as the mercury hit 31 degrees on Monday and NSW recorded its 10th consecutive day without a recent locally acquired coronavirus case. Bondi Beach was almost at full capacity but still open on Monday. Credit:Edwina Pickles The state's COVID-19 case total grew by one with the diagnosis of an overseas traveller in hotel quarantine, but rangers and councils remained on high alert as popular beaches, including Bondi and Cronulla, neared capacity. NSW Health is still concerned that low levels of testing could allow the virus to move undetected within the community after only 4789 tests were performed on Sunday. It urged anyone with even the mildest of COVID-19 symptoms to get tested. WASHINGTON Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel A. Alito Jr., who dissented from the Supreme Courts 2015 decision establishing a constitutional right to same-sex marriage, appeared to urge the court on Monday to reconsider the ruling, which they said had invented a right with no basis in the text of the Constitution. By choosing to privilege a novel constitutional right over the religious liberty interests explicitly protected in the First Amendment, and by doing so undemocratically, the court has created a problem that only it can fix, Justice Thomas wrote, in an opinion joined by Justice Alito. The justices issued their opinion in a case concerning Kim Davis, a Kentucky county clerk who had been sued for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. The Supreme Court turned down her appeal, and the two justices concurred in that decision, saying the case did not cleanly present questions warranting the courts review. But they used the occasion to issue a four-page statement denouncing the harm they said the 2015 decision, Obergefell v. Hodges, had done to religious freedom. The number of coronavirus cases reported worldwide passed 35 million in the early hours of Sunday. Over a million people have died since the virus first surfaced in China last December. Scientists are still in a race to develop a vaccine against the virus. Tests to diagnose the viral infection remains key to controlling the pandemic. As of Sunday morning, 535, 733 of Nigerias 200 million have already been tested for COVID-19. This has resulted in the discovery of 59, 287 infections thus far. Here are some of the stories which made headlines last week: Nigeria has been on a steady decline in the number of coronavirus infections recorded daily with 160 cases reported on Saturday. The latest figure, one of the lowest in at least six months, was recorded in just 13 states, bringing the total number of infections in the country to 59, 287, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). The number of coronavirus cases reported worldwide passed 35 million in the early hours of Sunday, data from worldometers.info has revealed. This is just as the total infections in Africa crossed 1.5 million, indicating a gradual increase in cases on the continent once perceived as a safe haven for the virus. The official number of global coronavirus cases is now at least five times the number of severe influenza illnesses recorded annually, according to World Health Organization data. The Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), says 42 Pharmacies and 397 Patent Medicine Shops were shutdown in Akwa-Ibom in September for lack of compliance to regulatory provisions. The Registrar of the Council, Elijah Mohammed, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja that nine compliance directives were issued to others for minor offences. The Gombe State Government of Friday launched the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) self-testing campaign targeted to get 500,000 persons to know their status. The State Commissioner for Health, Ahmed Gana, at the launch said that the event would help consolidate on the gains the state had achieved in the fight against HIV. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) says it introduced e-registration to simplify the registration exercise for its customers. NAFDACs Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. She also said the agency would embrace digitisation in carrying out its activities in order to reduce frequent human interaction. The National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme (NTBLCP), has said at least three out of four persons afflicted with tuberculosis are yet to access health care in Nigeria. An official of the outfit also identified myths and misconceptions as major challenges affecting TB transmission, control and prevention. The Head of Communication and Social Mobilisation of NTBLCP, Itohowo Uko, on Wednesday said only 26 per cent of the estimated TB cases in Nigeria were identified and have been put on treatment. Health advocates at a virtually held nutrition conference on Friday agreed that the campaign towards ending Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) in Nigeria more than ever before needs proper, accurate and balanced reporting of critical issues hampering progress. The conference was organised by the International Society for Media in Public Health (ISMPH) an organisation galvanising critical reporting of health-related issues especially those affecting children. As the global community marks the World Heart Day 2020, the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has re-echoed the need for the Nigeria to be wary of tobacco industry antics and called for a speedy enforcement of the National Tobacco Control (NTC) Act 2015 and the National Tobacco Control Regulations 2019. Advertisements CAPPA, in a signed statement by its Director of Programmes, Philip Jakpor, recently, also wants the government to establish the Tobacco Control Fund as recommended in the NTC Act 2015 to ensure the sustainability of tobacco control policies in the country. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria has seen a surge in the number of malnourished persons in the country, experts say. The experts who spoke at Protein Challenge Webinar Series 4, with the theme COVID-19 and Nigerias Protein Deficiency Situation say children, female adults of reproductive age, pregnant and lactating women, elderly and convalescent are especially vulnerable in a pandemic, with a big effect on malnutrition. In order to improve its testing capacity for COVID-19, the Nigerian government has developed a molecular test kit named the SARS-COV-2 Isothermal Molecular Assay (SIMA). The minister of state for health, Olorunnimbe Mamora, made this known at the bi-weekly Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 briefing on Tuesday. Mr Mamora said the test kit developed by the Nigeria Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) can produce results in less than 40 minutes. With strong leadership and comprehensive strategies its never too late for countries to change the trendlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, despite passing the tragic milestone of one million deaths this week amid regional surges in infections, said the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday. To be sure, countries are also seeing some two million new COVID-19 cases each week, WHO Executive Director Tedros Ghebreyesus told reporters at his latest press briefing in Geneva. HALIFAX - An advocacy group for childrens cancer research says its time Canada makes an advanced form of radiotherapy, called proton beam therapy, more widely available. Canada is the only G7 country without a clinical proton facility a situation that forces families to travel to the United States to seek a treatment that has been around for about a decade. Canadians should have access to the advanced level of care that comes from proton beam therapy, said Chris Collins, chair of Advocacy for Canadian Childhood Oncology Research Network, or Ac2orn. This is an important and proven technology and medical treatment, Collins said in a recent interview. Proton radiotherapy uses a beam of protons to irradiate cancerous tissue in children and adults. In comparison to conventional radiation therapy, proton therapy delivers a higher concentration of radiation without affecting nearby organs. Collins is a former speaker of the New Brunswick legislature who lost his 13-year-old son Sean to cancer in 2007. He said the COVID-19 pandemic is making it more difficult for families to travel to the United States for treatment. He said the pandemic is exposing an inequity in the health-care system that would be largely addressed if there were a Canadian option. Proportionally, it would be good to have a centre in Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto, and to fund families who are travelling to these places, he said. Kimberley Berger, of Vancouver, knows how difficult it can be to access the treatment her 12-year-old son Jonah received at a private clinic in Seattle, Wash., last February. While the B.C. health system funded the treatment, the family was on its own to pay their accommodations during the six weeks her son received proton therapy and chemotherapy following surgery for a brain tumour. My immediate thought when this happened was, how are we going to do this? Berger said. I have another son and my husband is working, we have to rent a home in another city and that is expensive. She said dealing with a foreign health system was an added stress. You dont know how the system works and then throw a pandemic on top of it, she said in a recent interview. The pandemic drives it home that we need to be sustainable in Canada when something like this does happen. Dr. Jim Whitlock, division head of haematology and oncology at SickKids hospital in Toronto, said proton therapy is a particularly effective option for children who have brain tumours or other types of cancer. Proton therapy, he said, is preferable for patients who have tumours at the base of the skull: A tricky area to try to radiate and not cause damage. Whitlock said the up-front capital costs estimated between $75 million and $250 million are the main hurdle to building a proton centre in Canada. He said there should be at least one national facility, adding that any province that decides to build one will need the help of the federal government. The vision of building centres of excellent for expensive and uncommon therapies is one Canada needs to embrace as a nation, Whitlock said. I hope the federal government will consider taking a more active role in helping address these national needs because some of these problems need to be solved at a national level. According to Health Canada, proton beam therapy systems are rated as Class III devices under federal regulations, meaning they must be licenced prior to importation or sale in the country. While Health Canada is responsible for assessing the safety, effectiveness and quality of medical devices, the availability, its use, and the funding of proton therapy in Canada fall under the responsibility of the provinces and territories, the department said in an email. Dr. Rob Rutledge, a radiation oncologist at the Nova Scotia Cancer Centre in Halifax, agrees that money is the issue. Currently, the handful of patients in the Maritimes who qualify for the proton treatment are sent to the United States. But Nova Scotia, which funds the treatment, is looking at referring some patients to the Netherlands, a country Rutledge said has excellent technology at a fraction of the cost. Proton treatment, however, needs to be offered to some children with brain tumours in Canada, Rutledge said, adding that the non-availability of the procedure exposes a gap in the health system. Pandemic aside, we need this treatment. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 4, 2020. Read more about: The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) ground forces adopted 10 UAVs or drones to provide logistic support for the first time to soldiers stationed at the remote Motuo region in Southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. China Central Television (CCTV) reported that the 10 drones opened air routes to the four frontlines stations of the PLA Tibet Military Command in Motuo region through satellite positioning, automatic take-off and landing, intelligent cruise and fixed-point delivery. The stations, located in dense forests of the high mountains, are often hit by landslides and heavy snow, and the soldiers at the stations are PLA's only frontline troops who relied on manpower on foot to transport food and other supplies. The multirotor drones have a payload capacity of 15 to 25 kilograms, and can fly 20 kilometers under full load. The delivery of the drones ahead of the National Day holiday enabled soldiers to have fresh vegetables, fruit, meat, milk and eggs, and even mooncakes. It used to take 120 soldiers two to three days to transport the supplies to the stations, and soldiers mostly ate dehydrated vegetables and canned food. With just under five weeks until the general election, Pennsylvania elections officials continue to push back against rhetoric that the election will be marred by widespread fraud. Election officials say they have no reason to anticipate that the mail-in ballot process nor the ballot drop boxes that will be made available to voters at the county level will present any vulnerability to fraud or criminal tampering. Voters in Cumberland County should feel safe and secure that no matter which option they choose, whether to vote by mail or go to the polls, the election has always been secured and continues to be so, said Bethany Salzarulo, the Cumberland County director of Elections and Voter Registration. President Trump has recently fueled allegations that the mail-in ballot system and ballot drop boxes were vulnerable to fraud and tampering, and as a result, lead to rigged election results. The FBI and other election watch groups have all asserted that the countys election process is safe and secure. The coronavirus pandemic is expected to fuel a surge for mail-in ballots across the country. Pennsylvania officials have projected as many as 3 million people could vote by mail this fall. The Legislature this year revised some of the elections provisions to adapt to the public health rigors rolled out amid the pandemic. The basic components of the law, though, remain in place, notably that mail-in ballots will be sent only upon request and only to registered voters. The process for mail-in ballots is the same as for absentee ballots, which we have had for years and years, Salzarulo said. They are handled the same way: safe and secured. If you trust the absentee ballot system, you should trust the mail-in system. Its the same. Its just on a larger scale. During last weeks presidential debate, Trump twice cited the case of nine ballots that were found in a trash can in Luzerne County. In an online press conference, Pennsylvania Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar this week characterized the incident as a matter of clerical error and not intentional fraud. The temporary clerk has been fired and the matter remains under investigation. But given the critical role that Pennsylvania is expected to play in the election - with its 20 electoral votes - elections officials across the state have had to address the seeming contrasting messages from the White House and the intelligence community. We feel confident Those who have long worked on the frontlines of the election in Pennsylvania told PennLive they have full confidence in the election integrity and have no cause to think that the election will be marred by fraud. In Pennsylvania absentee and mail-in ballots have exactly the same safety protocol ensuring they are issued upon rewritten request to registered voters and each envelope that comes back is genuine and contains only the one ballot issued to that voter, said Lancaster County Elections director Randall Wenger. Like a majority of counties, Lancaster has seen an increase in the number of requests for mail-in ballots this cycle, which all elections officials attribute to the pandemic. Lancaster County mailed out 63,000 mail-in ballots for the primary; and at the moment is poised to send out 80,000 mail-in ballots for the general election on Nov. 3. Requests continue to increase daily by as much as a 1,000 a day, said Wenger, who said he refuses to politicize the debate. He gave assurances that the election process in Lancaster County would be characterized by integrity and fairness. It is secured, he said. Mark Walters, a spokesman for York County, underscored the idea that elections take place at the local level. Its the countys job to run an election, he said. Theres lot of noise on Facebook and wherever else questioning the integrity of voting by mail but if you really get down to it and look at what is required to vote by mail, there couldnt be a more safe and secure way to vote especially in a pandemic. I encourage people not to listen to the rhetoric and propaganda and to not trust Facebook feeds as a source of information. Contrary to allegations circulating about the U.S. Postal Services ability to handle the increased volume of mail-in ballots, Bonnie Delancey, the Perry County director of elections, pointed out that the bureau experienced no mishaps or delays in the primary. She expects it will be the same in November. Delancey said she has never experienced delays in the mail service delivering absentee ballots. However, she said, she has heard from some county residents who express a level of confusion as to how and when ballots can be dropped off. I have to say there have been some things reported by the news media that have caused a lot of problems with this, she said. Some people are concerned. Perry County will not offer a ballot drop box per se, although voters will be able to drop their ballots off at the Veterans Memorial Building, which houses the commissioners office. She said the box will be under camera surveillance, as it always has. We feel confident here, the staff and the elections board that we think everything will work out fine with the mail service for delivering ballots, Delancey said. The issue of the drop boxes has emerged central to the presidents claims that the ballot return system will be susceptible to fraud. Trump has repeatedly seized on the idea that 80 million mail-in ballots will swamp and crash the system. Theres fraud. They found them in creeks. They are being dumped in rivers. This is a horrible thing for our country, Trump said during Tuesdays debate. Federal and state law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the two separate instances at the center of the presidents charge: the clerical error in Luzerne County and a Wisconsin incident in which three trays of mail were found in a ditch off a highway. Officials have found no evidence of wrongdoing in either. Thad Hall may be a veteran elections official, but he is new to the process in Pennsylvania. Hall moved to Mercer County from Arizona about a month ago and now is the county director of the Voter Registration and Election Bureau. I have no concerns that there will be fraud, he said. Hall noted that unlike Pennsylvania, 75 percent of ballots in his former home state of Arizona are cast via mail-in ballots. We never had any problems in Arizona and I dont think we will have one here, he said. I see no reason why there should be any issue. Seeking a change in law There are stakeholders, however, who continue to harbor some reservations about the ability to process mail-in ballots as quickly as officials and voters would like. The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania, for instance, is calling on the General Assembly to give counties additional time before Election Day to begin the time-consuming, manual work of pre-canvassing opening envelopes and flattening ballots in preparation for counting. Without sufficient time, final election results may take days or weeks leading to intense scrutiny and nationwide headlines, said Ken Kroski, spokesman for the association. The more time counties have to undertake the pre-canvassing process, the better prepared they will be to provide timely results in a highly visible presidential election where Pennsylvania is clearly a battleground state, but counties in Pennsylvania will not sacrifice the integrity of the election in favor of speed. Under the current statute, Pennsylvania counties are permitted to begin counting mail-in ballots only after polls close on election day. If Pennsylvania does not have complete results on election night or shortly thereafter, its not because there is anything wrong with the election results, or the process, or because it indicates fraud of any sort, it is simply the sheer volume of processing ballots that will delay announcing results, Kroski said. Pennsylvania is one of many states where legal battles are being waged over election rules. Republicans have asked the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a decision by the state high court allowing elections officials to count mail-in ballots received up to three days after Election Day. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling, widely seen as a win for Democrats, also permits voters to turn in ballots via drop boxes and blocks a Republican effort to allow partisan poll watchers to be stationed in counties where they do not live. I believe they acted improperly, said Sen. John DiSanto, a Dauphin County Republican seeking re-election in the race for the 15th Senatorial District, which includes Dauphin County and a small part of Perry County. DiSanto is also concerned about the integrity of the drop box system. He said the process bears no regulations, and as such, risk calling into question in the minds of voters the integrity of the election. Fundamentally I think that with in-person voting and legally cast ballots received by election day voters should have confidence in that, DiSanto said. Drop boxes that arent secured? I dont know why we need them. We have mail boxes throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that people can drop their ballot into and feel secured that it gets in. Pennsylvania mail-in ballots, in fact, are now being sent out, in many cases before many states begin their mail-in voting. Like Perry County, Mercer County will not have a drop box for ballots, but voters can drop off their ballots at the county elections office, which is in the courthouse. Hall reiterates the Pennsylvania statute for mail-in ballots: that only the person casting the ballot may return the ballot to a drop box, meaning voters are not permitted to return ballots cast by family or friends. The Legislature clearly didnt look at other states' statutes when they wrote theirs, Hall said. With 300,000 voters in York County, Walters said that in an ideal world the county would be able to place ballot drop boxes in each of the 72 municipalities in the state. Its what weve got, he said. We can only put a box where the election office is. Under state law, counties are permitted to place drop boxes only in the official elections board office or official satellite offices. Few counties have official satellite offices. The vast majority of ballot drop boxes will be monitored by county elections officials or sheriffs deputies. They will remain locked, and in most cases, will be emptied several times a day as needed. Its secure. Its not going anywhere, said Wenger, the Lancaster County elections director. Its locked. The Lancaster County ballot drop box will be placed in the vestibule of the Chestnut Street county building. Elections officials stress that voters should check with their respective county elections board (all have websites) to check time and extended schedules of the boxes. Pennsylvania elections officials to date have sent out approximately 2.3 million mail-in ballots. The majority of ballots are on their way to voters, Boockvar said last week. Of course, voters can vote in-person at the polls Nov. 3, or vote early in-person at their county election office if they have not yet applied for a mail-in ballot. More from PennLive Check out PennLives voters guide for the 2020 election Former Pa. Gov. Tom Ridge urges states to allow processing of mail-in ballots before Election Day A solicitor has dodged a ban for drink-driving while moving her Mercedes 50 yards to avoid a parking fine. Danielle Amodio, 31, got up early on a Sunday morning to move the car out of a residents-only bay after a night spent drinking wine at the home of her friend Sophie Stevens. When the 72,000-a-year lawyer struggled to reverse out, she asked Miss Stevens, 32, to help her. But police stopped the pair on the walk back and a breathalyser test found they were both more than twice the legal limit. Danielle Amodio (left) got up early on a Sunday morning to move the car out of a residents-only bay after a night spent drinking wine at the home of her friend Sophie Stevens (right) They admitted driving with excess alcohol in their breath and were fined a combined 1,500 at Wimbledon Magistrates Court in south-west London. Both managed to avoid an automatic 12-month driving ban after convincing magistrates they moved the car simply to stop it being ticketed by a traffic warden. But Miss Amodios criminal conviction could lead to professional misconduct proceedings. Simon Harrison, defending, said: Miss Amodio notified the Solicitors Regulation Authority two days later. She knows what she did was wrong. Last night, Miss Stevens who earned 50,000 a year as a recruitment specialist before losing her job due to the pandemic described the incident in mid May as scary. She added: We are not used to being in trouble. Its crazy. The whole thing was a bit odd. Miss Amodio, who owns a 665,000 flat three miles away, had driven to Miss Stevens house in Wimbledon the day before and parked in a residents bay. They admitted driving with excess alcohol in their breath and were fined a combined 1,500 at Wimbledon's Magistrates' Court (pictured) in south west London But next morning, with the narrow road full of cars, Miss Amodio was able to get her Mercedes only partly out. Miss Stevens jumped in and reversed it down the road and into a space on the street only to be caught with her friend moments later by police. She said: There was someone at the end of the road watching us try to get out of the space. They must have assumed we were drunk. I think they called the police. We were walking back when a police car pulled up. They asked, Did you just drive?. We said, Yes, we were just parking, thinking nothing of it. Then we were breathalysed. Miss Amodio, who is legal counsel to the technology firm Genius Sports, was found to have 90 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath well over twice the legal limit of 35 micrograms. Miss Stevens reading was 76 micrograms. Miss Amodio received eight penalty points on her driving licence and was fined 1,392, with 250 costs and a 139 victim surcharge. Her friend was given nine points and was fined 120 with 250 costs and a 34 victim surcharge. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 11:18:49|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CARACAS, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- Metro de Caracas, a company that runs the Venezuelan capital's mass transit system, has responded to U.S. trade sanctions that bar imports by building its own spare parts to refurbish trains. The initiative has helped repair Caracas Train, the first train rebuilt with homegrown technology and design. "The whole internal system has been designed by Venezuelans," president of the Metro de Caracas union, Edison Alvarado, told Xinhua during a tour of the project at Las Adjuntas station in the southwest of the city. Alvarado said this is one of the initiatives with "100 percent Venezuelan talent." Launched in November 2019, the initiative aims to repair more than 20 trains. Native engineers developed new technology for air conditioning, injection system and pneumatic system, said Alvarado. "We also designed our own disinfection system (against COVID-19)," he said. The sanctions imposed by the United States and its allies have brought many companies to a standstill by cutting off their access to spare parts and maintenance, and Metro de Caracas is among them. "As a result of the blockade and of all those countries that bowed to the sanctions (pressure) of the United States government, they stopped sending us supplies and spare parts for the trains," said the president. Since its foundation, the subway system has operated with technology from French company Alstom, while in 2010 the network's Line 1 switched to trains built by Spanish firm Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF). The companies warned that the Caracas Metro system might stop functioning due to the sanctions, but "thanks to the working class, it is operational," said Alvarado. As a veteran at Metro Maintenance for 33 years, corporate manager for manitenance Carlos Ashby expressed pride in the 90 employees that have kept the system going and the National Experimental University of Transportation that has supported the project. Caracas Train is practically new, said Ashby, with the original French-made exterior and Venezuelan-made electronic equipment, electrical system and wheels. Some 22 trains in all are set to be refurbished "amid the pandemic and after five years of (a financial) war that has us against the wall," added Ashby. Enditem Tom Cruise has been always vocal about wanting to shoot his stunt and action sequences in real-time, without depending on the movie magic created by VFX. This leads to many of Mission: Impossible film's stunt pieces making their way to the internet via leaked set videos which leave netizens baffled. Recently, a stunt video of Tom Cruise riding a bike and taking off a high ramp to quickly release a parachute and land to the ground had done its round on the internet. In a new video from the filming of Mission: Impossible 7, Tom Cruise can be seen casually sitting at the top of a fast-moving train and waving at his excited fans. Check out the video below - Also read: Tom Cruise and director Doug Liman will fly to space in 2021 for their untitled film? Tom Cruise waves at fans while sitting on moving train If you are wondering where Christopher McQuarrie is... pic.twitter.com/BdMf2hgtOJ Cinephilia & Beyond (@LaFamiliaFilm) October 4, 2020 The film had halted its production back in February 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but has now resumed its shooting which is taking place across multiple locations around the world. The film is under protection with a limited crew which clearly has not stopped Cruise from embarking on doing difficult stunts by himself. Director Christopher McQuarrie has also shared a still from the on-train action set piece. In the photo, Cruise can be seen fighting on top of the train as a camera crew films the sequence. Check out Christopher McQuarrie's post below - Also read: Tom Cruise's daughter, Bella Cruise flaunts dramatic new look on Instagram; See pic Also read: Tom Cruise might play Iron Man in Marvel's 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' While the death-defining stunts making their way tot he internet has left fans ecstatic for what Tom Cruise and his crew have in store for them, Mission: Impossible 7 and 8's production has been hit with more than just one hurdle during production. Recently, the film production was hit with allegations of violating the Immigration Act in Norway for hiring Filipino workers being paid only $3.30 an hour, according to a Variety report. Whereas, another reason why the production received backlash was when it was revealed that they planned on blowing up an actual bridge in Poland. However, the film has now wrapped its schedule in Norway without COVID-19 claiming anyone from the sets. The director of the film has confirmed on social media that the film's production is now moving to Roma. Also read: Tom Cruise's 'Mission Impossible 7': Everything you need to know so far Ovostar Union, one of the leading egg and egg products producer in Ukraine, has announced that it entered into a joint venture agreement with JMMMTJL B.V. (the Netherlands). According to a company report posted on the Warsaw Stock Exchange last week, a joint venture entity, REMEDIUM FOODS B.V., has been established and registered under the Dutch law on 30 September 2020 on a 50:50 basis. "The establishment of REMEDIUM FOODS B.V. is not expected to have any material impact on the earnings and net assets of the company for the financial year ending December 31, 2020," the company said. This article will reflect on the compensation paid to James Barder who has served as CEO of Futura Medical plc (LON:FUM) since 2001. This analysis will also assess whether Futura Medical pays its CEO appropriately, considering recent earnings growth and total shareholder returns. View our latest analysis for Futura Medical Comparing Futura Medical plc's CEO Compensation With the industry According to our data, Futura Medical plc has a market capitalization of UK33m, and paid its CEO total annual compensation worth UK238k over the year to December 2019. Notably, that's a decrease of 14% over the year before. Notably, the salary which is UK235.6k, represents most of the total compensation being paid. In comparison with other companies in the industry with market capitalizations under UK155m, the reported median total CEO compensation was UK274k. This suggests that Futura Medical remunerates its CEO largely in line with the industry average. What's more, James Barder holds UK162k worth of shares in the company in their own name. Component 2019 2018 Proportion (2019) Salary UK236k UK230k 99% Other UK2.7k UK47k 1% Total Compensation UK238k UK276k 100% On an industry level, roughly 35% of total compensation represents salary and 65% is other remuneration. Futura Medical is focused on going down a more traditional approach and is paying a higher portion of compensation through salary, as compared to non-salary benefits. If total compensation veers towards salary, it suggests that the variable portion - which is generally tied to performance, is lower. A Look at Futura Medical plc's Growth Numbers Futura Medical plc has reduced its earnings per share by 5.3% a year over the last three years. Its revenue is up 166% over the last year. Investors would be a bit wary of companies that have lower EPS But in contrast the revenue growth is strong, suggesting future potential for EPS growth. These two metrics are moving in different directions, so while it's hard to be confident judging performance, we think the stock is worth watching. Looking ahead, you might want to check this free visual report on analyst forecasts for the company's future earnings.. Story continues Has Futura Medical plc Been A Good Investment? Given the total shareholder loss of 47% over three years, many shareholders in Futura Medical plc are probably rather dissatisfied, to say the least. This suggests it would be unwise for the company to pay the CEO too generously. In Summary... Futura Medical pays its CEO a majority of compensation through a salary. As we touched on above, Futura Medical plc is currently paying a compensation that's close to the median pay for CEOs of companies belonging to the same industry and with similar market capitalizations. But revenue growth seems to be inching northward, a heartening sign for the company. Contrarily, shareholder returns are in the red over the same stretch. EPS is also not growing, undoubtedly leading to further headaches. We'd say CEO compensation isn't unfair, but shareholders may be wary of a bump in pay before the company substantially improves overall performance. We can learn a lot about a company by studying its CEO compensation trends, along with looking at other aspects of the business. In our study, we found 6 warning signs for Futura Medical you should be aware of, and 2 of them make us uncomfortable. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking at a different set of stocks. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com. CBI began raids on Sunday morning in an alleged corruption case against D. K. Shivakumar, the President of Karnataka Congress, in 15 places in Karnataka, Mumbai and Delhi. Somewhere near 50 lakh have been, by now, confiscated from all the 14 locations. Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday held raids at properties that are linked to Congress leader DK Shivkumar in an alleged corruption case. His properties in Karnataka, Mumbai and Delhi and his brother, DK Sureshs houses in Karnataka have also been raided by the investigating agency. CBI held these raids in an alleged corruption case against D. K. Shivakumar, the President of Karnataka Congress, in 15 places in Karnataka, Mumbai and Delhi. The Congress said that these raids are merely an attempt to derail their preparation for by-polls in Karnataka. The corruption case was filed by the CBI based on the information received by them from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money-laundering probe. It was reported that CBI registered a case against the then Minister of Karnataka Government among others based on the allegations of acquiring disproportionate assets. Raids are being taken out at 14 locations: 9 in Karnataka, 4 in Delhi, and 1 in Mumbai. Also read: Bihar polls: BJP holds CEC to finalise candidates, LJP walks out of NDA and Cong to hold CEC today Also read: Hathras politics: Congress, DMK to hold protests across country, Yogi Adityanath writes to centre recommending CBI probe Teams from Maharashtra and Delhi launched the raids at approximately 6:30 a.m. today. Along with the personal quarters and other rooms of D. K. Shivakumar, those of his family members, employees and associates are also being searched. Somewhere near 50 lakh have been, by now, confiscated from all the 14 locations. D. K. Shivakumar had been arrested before the previous year by the Enforcement Directorate. He had been interrogated for 4 days about money-laundering before being arrested in September 2019. The 2019 arrest was related to the tax raids conducted on D. K. Shivakumar in 2017 when 8.6 crores under undeclared income had been seized. The amount had later been increased to 11 crores later. The Enforcement Directorate registered the money laundering case against him in 2018 as per a charge sheet filed by the Income Tax Department. While investigating for money laundering, the Enforcement Directorate sent some of the information they had found to the CBI in 2019. This is the first instance of CBI registering a case against the Congress Leader. Also read: Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee extends rail roko agitation in Punjab till Oct 8 Kiev, Ukraine: Authorities in Belarus said on Monday, local time, that more than 300 people were detained during the previous day's protests against the country's authoritarian president, who won his sixth term in office in a vote widely seen as rigged. The Interior Ministry said 317 people were detained during rallies in several cities on Sunday against Alexander Lukashenko. In the capital, Minsk, where according to a rights group nearly 120,000 took part in a rally on Sunday, water cannons were used to disperse the crowds, the ministry said. Police estimated the turnout to be around 10,000 people. Police use a water cannon toward demonstrators during a rally in Minsk, Belarus on Sunday. Credit:AP In the city of Vitebsk police used tear gas against protesters, the ministry said. The vast majority of those detained 258 remain in custody pending a court appearance. Mass protests have rocked Belarus for almost two months, with the largest held on Sundays and drawing up to 200,000 people. The unprecedented unrest was triggered by the results of the August 9 presidential election that handed Lukashenko, who has run Belarus with an iron fist for 26 years, victory with 80 per cent of the vote. Camper fire claims the life of two people in Marshall County An MP is leading calls for the government to enact a ban on sky lanterns due to growing concerns over their fire risk and litter. To date, more than 160 councils across the UK have banned the products, recognising the danger they pose to animals and the environment. The products are often made of paper, with an opening at the bottom where a lit candle is suspended. Once released, they can drift for miles. On top of farmers' animal welfare concerns, sky lanterns are also a serious source of litter in the countryside. Speaking in the House of Commons on 1 October, East Yorkshire MP Greg Knight renewed his call for a ban on sky lanterns. He said a parliamentary debate was needed on a ban: They are hazardous airborne litter that invariably lands on someone elses property, he said. Replying, Leader of the House Jacob Rees-Mogg acknowledged many of his constituents had also raised concerns, but he expressed a reluctance to introduce a ban. Sir Greg pointed to a recent incident in Germany, where sky lanterns started a fire at a zoo killing many exotic primates. "If we do not take firmer action here it is only a matter of time until another disaster strikes," he said. "I am calling for the law to be changed because I think we need to introduce a specific ban to deal with this problem. "After all, these lanterns are potentially lethal litter. FarmingUK shared a video from Merseyside arable farmer Olly Harrison earlier this year, who pleaded with the public to stop using the items. He found a burnt out sky lantern on his farm last month and warned that the devices can harm livestock and set fire to property. Fortunately, he did not suffer crop or livestock losses. However, with his arable fields, livestock, barns full of bales, and a shed full of wood chippings means this is a constant worry and stress. The video has been viewed by more than 2 million people and has been shared 50,000 times. Hyderabad, Oct 5 : GMR Varalakshmi Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of GMR Group, has extended online and offline teaching support to government school students in the vicinity of Hyderabad airport in Shamshabad, at a time when the coronavirus pandemic has disrupted their education. "While online classes have been started for 10th class students in a few government schools from villages around the Hyderabad international airport, offline mode has taken off through the study circle programme to teach the students for lower classes and those needing most attention," said a statement. The foundation formed a group of Vidya volunteers, trained to assist the students in learning, who will later also pick up some senior students from government schools to teach juniors as well in the study circles. For online classes, the foundation has teamed up with ConveGenius (CG), a Delhi-based tech startup to conduct classes for 10th standard students. "Online classes started in the month of August. These classes are helping more than 100 students who were shortlisted with the help of Vidya volunteers from Zilla Parishad Girls High School, Shamshabad, Zilla Parishad Boys High School and Zilla Parishad High School Mamidipally in Telangana," said the statement. CG developed an app for 10th standard students for online learning. Tricore HCM, a leading provider of fully integrated human capital management solutions and Payday Payroll, a top payroll and HR services firm have merged to form the all-new Payday brand (https://paydaypayroll.com). With each company bringing a range of complementary HR, payroll and benefits services to the table, the new brand is strategically positioned to support the entire employee lifecycle of its clients. All executive leadership and staff from both companies will maintain as will all office locations. Were beyond excited about the merging of our two companies, said Payday CEO, Dave Fried. Its actually been a long time in the making. Weve partnered on a number of initiatives over the last 10-plus years. Our companies have really gotten to know each other not just in terms of products and services but values. Everyone whos a part of the new Payday brand believes that our business is ultimately about people. Thats what were most excited about. The Payday brand will take a consultative, integrated approach to HR, benefits and payroll, powered by personalized customer service. From recruiting and onboarding, time and attendance and compliance to cloud-based payroll solutions, health plans and retirement, Payday clients will have everything they need to properly serve the entire employee lifecycle. The launch of the new brand is big, said Payday President, Danny Kline. Its more than a new logo, a new website and new branding. Were now well-positioned to go up against the bigger players in the space while still maintaining our boutique feel. And we think thats exactly what clients want: the full suite of solutions, the ability to customize, easy-to-use technology, a real person they know answering the phone and thoughtful, honest advice. About Payday Payday (https://paydaypayroll.com) is a fully integrated HR, benefits and payroll provider with offices in Robbinsville, New Jersey, New York City, Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Boynton Beach, Florida. Rooted in personal service and powered by cutting-edge technology, the company delivers best-in-class solutions, custom-designed for exact client specifications. Learn more at https://paydaypayroll.com. The Victorian Liberal opposition has asked the state's corruption watchdog and the Auditor-General to probe the $2.3 billion contract to deliver Melbourne's new train fleet owing to probity concerns and lengthy delays. The Liberal request came on the same day Premier Daniel Andrews partly addressed concerns the Chinese company building the trains posed a national security risk and benefited from exploited Uighur labour by saying "we are about getting things done". Victoria's new metro trains sitting idle at Downer EDI's Newport facility. Credit:Chris Hopkins Opposition public transport spokesman David Davies has written to the bodies requesting they investigate the 2016 deal to build 65 high-capacity metro trains (HCMT). The trains to be delivered by a consortium that includes Chinese state-owned firm CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles, Downer EDI and Plenary Group are 18 months late and the government does not have a completion date. "Labor and Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan have botched the HCMT project from the start. It is now two years late and the Chinese-manufactured trains are still not running," Mr Davis said. "Only the Auditor-General has the power to pull back the veil on Labor's mismanagement and its cost to commuters." Meanwhile, in response to demands for security for the victim's family, the Adityanath government claimed that security of her family 'has been tightened'. As protests continue over the gangrape of a 19-year-old Dalit girl in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras district, the Yogi Adityanath government on Monday filed an FIR against unknown persons for attempting to trigger 'caste-baste conflict'. The FIR lodged at Chandpa Police Station in Hathras district against unknown people mentioned alleged attempts to foment cast conflict, promote enmity between groups, and tarnish the image of the government. The FIR also invoked section 124A of the Indian Penal Code: which is the serious charge of sedition. ADG (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar had earlier threatened legal action against those he accused of "twisting the matter to stir caste-based tension." Meanwhile, in response to demands for security for the victim's family, the Adityanath government claimed that security of her family "has been tightened". On Sunday, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad had demanded 'Y'-level security for the victim's family. The case attracted national attention after the victim, who was raped and sustained grievous injuries on 14 September, succumbed in Delhi's Safdarjung hospital on 29 September. The police cremating the victim's body, allegedly without consent from her family, sparked outrage online and in the press and spurred protests across the country from activists, Opposition parties and Dalit leaders. 'Security of Hathras victim's family tightened' Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Awanish Kumar Awasthi was on Monday quoted by PTI as saying that security personnel have been deployed in the victim's village. "Security has been tightened around the victim's house in Hathras and her family members have also been provided security," he said. Hathras Police also said that 12-15 Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) personnel have been deployed in the village for "24-hour security" of the family, adding that two security men have been deployed for the brother. Elaborate security has been ensured to prevent any tension in the area, they were quoted as saying by the report. Besides constables, three SHOs, a deputy SP-rank officer have been deployed. Women policemen have also been deployed for round-the-clock security in the village, besides magistrates are also there to to keep an eye on the situation, the police said. UP Police claims 'conspiracy' to defame govt On Sunday, the Uttar Pradesh Police filed at least 19 FIRs across the state on charges ranging from attempts to trigger caste conflict to sedition, as per reports. Eighteen other sections of the Indian Penal Code and one under the IT Act were also listed in the FIR on Sunday afternoon. In Lucknow on Monday, state's Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar said there are FIRs registered on similar lines in other Uttar Pradesh districts as well, PTI reported. Besides six cases at different police stations in Hathras, 13 more FIRs have been filed in Bijnor, Saharanpur, Bulandshahar, Allahabad, Ayodhya and Lucknow for vitiating the atmosphere, the report quoted police officials as saying. The FIRs also deal with matter posted on social media. As per Indian Express, police sources claimed a website 'justiceforhathrasvictim.carrd.co' "... which had information on how to protest safely and avoid the police, has been linked to the conspiracy". "The site has been taken down and is currently unavailable. It also listed dos and donts on how to stay safe during riots and in situations when police fire tear gas, sources said. Most of the content has been lifted from literature being shared online by Black Lives Matters protesters in the United States of America," the report police quoted sources as saying. The police's FIR on Sunday invoked 19 charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), PTI reported. The IPC sections include 124A (sedition), 505 (intending to cause public alarm and inducing someone to commit offence against state or public tranquility), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups). The police have also invoked section 67 (transmitting obscene material in electronic form) of the IT Act, according to the FIR. PTI quoted a police officer as saying that the Uttar Pradesh government's statements and facts related to the Hathras case "are being forged, manipulated and circulated through social media". "Misleading content is being shared with forged logos of media houses," the statement added. "Some accused are circulating material that could trigger caste-based conflict and these are serious offences considering the current situation in the region," the officer said, adding the investigation is underway. The report added that the Hathras Police has so far registered around a dozen complaints under the IT Act with respect to the case and they are being probed by the Cyber Cell. On Monday, Yogi Adityanath also alleged that "some anarchists" were out to "create communal frenzy" and caste violence as they were not liking the the progress made by the country under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. According to a press note issued by the BJP, the chief minister said that some of the recent incidents have exposed the conspiracy of such elements in this regard. Exhorting BJP workers to give a befitting reply to them through development oriented efforts, the chief minister said under Modi's guidance, the central government is working towards building a self-reliant and strong India. The chief minister participated in a virtual dialogue with the booth and sector in-charges of Tundla reserved Assembly constituency in connection with the upcoming by elections. 'Under house arrest' Sumaiyya Rana, daughter of poet Munawwar Rana's daughter on Monday claimed that she has been put under house arrest after she tried to put up posters against the gang-rape, PTI reported. "The chief minister had directed to put up posters of those involved in crime against women at public places. I have some posters on Hathras incident. These posters are to be put near Clock Tower and other areas but police put me under house arrest on Sunday," Sumaiyya Rana told PTI. "On Sunday, from 7 pm till 2.30 am, police force was deputed outside my apartment and I was stopped from coming out. On Monday also, some policemen were deployed and they were directed that I should not move out (of the residence)," she claimed. When contacted, Kaiserbagh SHO Dinanath Mishra denied the allegation, saying she was "going to participate in a procession and she was asked to not do so without permission." Rana, who actively participated in anti-CAA protests in Lucknow and was also named in a related FIR, said, "Had the activeness shown by police to house arrest me been shown in other cases, crimes against women would not have happened." FIR against 500 Congress workers for 3 Oct scuffle The Gautam Buddh Nagar Police has filed an FIR against over 500 Congress workers, charging them with unlawful assembly two days ago at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh border in Noida amid the COVID-19 outbreak, PTI reported. The FIR has been registered against Congress' Gautam Buddh Nagar unit president Manoj Chaudhary, Noida unit chief Shahabuddin and 500 unnamed party workers, the police officials said. Hundreds of Congress workers and leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, were on their way to Hathras on Saturday afternoon to meet the victim's family. There were scuffles involving Congress workers and the Gautam Buddh Nagar (Noida) Police at the DND toll plaza during which police personnel had baton charged the crowd. Some party leaders, including Priyanka, were manhandled, while some policemen were also hurt. According to the FIR lodged a little earlier before midnight on 3 October, the Congress workers have been booked under IPC sections 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant), 269 (unlawfully or negligently spreading infection of any disease dangerous to life), 270 (malignant act likely to spread infection of disease dangerous to life) and under section 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act. The FIR has been lodged on a complaint by Rakesh Kumar Singh, the SHO of the Sector 20 police station. On 2 October also, the Gautam Buddh Nagar Police had lodged an FIR against around 200 Congress workers and leaders, including Rahul and Priyanka, under the Epidemic Diseases Act for not maintaining social distancing and not wearing face masks. The party workers were detained while they were on foot on the Yamuna Expressway in Greater Noida in a bid to go to Hathras. Gautam Buddh Nagar is currently under CrPC section 144, which restricts assembly of more than four people, in view of the pandemic. Congress reiterates demand for judicial probe Stepping up its attack on the Adityanath government over the Hathras case, the Congress demanded the dismissal of the Hathras district magistrate for allegedly threatening the victim's family and asked why the SIT was continuing with its probe when a CBI investigation has been sought by the Uttar Pradesh government. The Congress also asked why a judicial probe should not be held to ascertain whether the body allegedly burnt by the cops in the middle of the night is of the 19-year-old victim. "The Yogi Adityanath government must immediately dismiss the DM, who is on record, on a video threatening the family and he should not be given any other position till it is thoroughly investigated that at whose instructions and whose behest did the DM go to the victim's family and threatened them in the manner that he did," Congress spokesperson Sushmita Dev said. On Sunday, the Congress had demanded that the DM be suspended. Dev also said the family is demanding a judicial inquiry by a sitting judge of the Supreme Court and questioned why such a probe is not being ordered. "It is crystal clear that from the date the young, helpless girl was raped, that all institutions within the state of UP, whether it is the SIT with senior officers are in cahoots to hush up this matter. "It is shocking that an SIT was set up after 14 days and after the media and the opposition leaders, specifically Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi met the victim's family in Hathras, as damage control they ordered a CBI inquiry," she told reporters. She said an important question that arises is that even though a CBI inquiry has been instituted, the Central agency has not visited the village. "The SIT inquiry is still continuing on the ground," she alleged. The Congress leader said it is "heart-breaking" that when the family of the victim is alleging that after the tragic incident of not allowing the family members to go through proper rituals at cremation service, they are now asking proof that the body that was hurriedly cremated was that the body of their daughter. "In the name of humanity, the family has demanded that if the body was of their daughter then they should be allowed to take the ashes for a dignified ritual, which is part of their custom and their culture. "We want to ask the Adityanath government that which of these demands is unjustified by the family? Should the DM not be dismissed and investigated? Should there not be a judicial inquiry? Why is the SIT still on the ground, when you have yourself ordered a CBI inquiry," she said. Dev asked what is it that the Adityanath government is hiding and asked why a judicial inquiry should not happen in this case. Protests continue unabated While Congress units in several states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Chandigarh held protests against the assault on Monday, activists of Left-affiliated parties burnt the effigies of Adityanath at Delhi's Jantar Mantar. The activists were also joined by Dalit and women's organisations who protested against the "injustice" meted out to the family of the Hathras victim. They also demanded Adityanath's resignation for "mishandling" the case. This comes days after a massive protest in the city where hundreds of protesters had gathered to demand the chief minister's resignation. The earlier protest had seen the participation of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, CPM leaders Sitaram Yechury and Brinda Karat, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad, Bollywood actor Swara Bhaskar among others. On Monday , the protesters, wearing masks, gathered at Jantar Mantar holding placards that read "End rape culture," "Dalit lives matter", "Educate Organise Agitate" among others. The protesters from organisations such as the All India Students' Association, All India Progressive Women's Association, Bhim Army and All India Central Council of Trade Unions (AICCTU) raised slogans slamming UP Police and demanding justice for the 19-year-old woman, who was allegedly raped and killed by four upper-caste men. Sucheta De from the Left-affiliated All India Students' Association (AISA) said, "We will be holding the protests every day till the Yogi Adityanath government is there. He has to resign. The state machinery is being used to intimidate the family of the victim." Kawalpreet Kaur, the president of Delhi unit of AISA, said they want a judicial enquiry of the case. "Justice should also be seen as done and in this case, from the beginning when they did not register an FIR, it only shows that they don't want to ensure justice. They just want to ensure that the upper caste accused are protected. "Now the chief minister is alleging there is an international conspiracy to it. That is absurd," she said. Kavita Krishnan, the secretary of All India Progressive Women's Association, said it is important to recognise caste-based oppression and said the protest was a way to create mass awakening against caste. "It is important to have an anti-caste movement. The way the Yogi government is behaving by burning evidence, burning woman's body, subjecting it to indignity, surrounding the whole village and not allowing anti-rape protest but allowing pro-rape protest, we demand the resignation of Yogi Adityanath," she said. CPM, CPI to visit victim's family tomorrow A joint delegation of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Communist Party of India (CPI) will visit Hathras in Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday to meet the family members of the victim. The delegation will comprise of CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury, CPI general secretary D Raja, CPM politburo member Brinda Karat, CPI national secretary Amarjeet Kaur, Uttar Pradesh CPM secretary Hiralal Yadav, and Uttar Pradesh CPI secretary Girish Sharma. Earlier, a team comprising leaders of Agricultural Workers Union, Kisan ttSabha, CITU and Janwadi Mahila Samiti had met the family of the victim. Retired judge moves SC A retired judge moved the Supreme Court seeking an investigation into the role of police officials and registration of FIRs against them in connection with the rape case. The PIL filed by ex-judicial officer Chandra Bhan Singh alleged that "callousness and highhandedness" of the state administration and police officials in giving treatment to the victim led to her death and sought a probe by any agency other than affiliated to Uttar Pradesh government. DMK's Kanimozhi detained during protest The DMK women's wing took out a candle light march in Chennai on Monday, with its secretary Kanimozhi demanding justice for the victim. Kanimozhi, who led the march titled "Save our daughters", and others, including some DMK men, were detained when they attempted to breach police barricades and proceed towards the Raj Bhavan, PTI reported. The Tuticorin MP alleged the BJP government did not appear to be concerned over women's safety, in so much as it was keen on protecting the cows. "A cruel rape has happened in Uttar Pradesh... a girl was brutally raped and done to death. But, the UP government is trying to suppress the rape incident. Since BJP government has come to power, crimes against women have been on the rise," she charged. Earlier, addressing the protesters, party chief MK Stalin claimed justice had been denied to the victim and her family. With inputs from PTI Page Content Members of the European Committee of the Regions have welcomed the European Commission's increased focus on regional and local innovation ecosystems. On 30 September, the Commission published a c ommunication on a new European Research Area for Research and Innovation . It promises strategic and coordinated support to regions and cities, building on successful initiatives such as the Knowledge Exchange Platform and Science meets Regions, which will be upgraded to a strategic level. The CoR's Commission for Social Policy, Employment, Culture, Education and Research (SEDEC) hosted on 1 October a debate with Jean-Eric Paquet , European Commission's Director-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD). Mr Paquet highlighted the good experiences from the Knowledge Exchange Platform, a concept jointly developed by the CoR and DG RTD to present new R&I solutions, innovative products and best practices in response to societal challenges facing the regions and cities of Europe. SEDEC Chair Anne Karjalainen (FI/PES) said: "We warmly welcome the European Commission's intention to further enhance the strategic cooperation with the European Committee of the Regions through the Knowledge Exchange Platform. Local and regional authorities are the linchpin in the process of deepening at the same time the European Research Area and the European Educational Area, which is crucial for bringing Europe up to speed with the green and digital transitions underway." Christophe Clergeau (FR/PES), Member of the Pays-de-la-Loire regional council, will lead the CoR's work on the European Research Area communication. The draft opinion will be adopted at the next SEDEC meeting on 25 November. The newly-appointed rapporteur stressed that "there is still need to improve local and regional authorities' role in the governance of research programmes and increase synergies between R&I and cohesion policy. The European Research Area should allow for a wider approach where all stakeholders work together and should develop in synergy with the European Education Area." During the exchange of views with Director-General Paquet, various members also expressed concerns on the innovation gap between EU regions, which the brain drain phenomenon risks to exacerbate. SEDEC vice-chair Matteo Bianchi (IT/ECR), Member of Morazzone Municipal Council, suggested providing support and fiscal incentives to companies that invest in innovation in less developed regions. Director-General Paquet concluded that " Europe needs to team up across policy areas and work with citizens to make R&I not only the best science in the world with ground-breaking innovations, but also a policy framework which provides knowledge and solutions Europe needs on digital and green transitions and artificial intelligence". The European Commission's Joint Research Centre published this week the end of term report for the Science meets Parliaments/Regions pilot project, concluding that there is need to further improve evidence-informed policymaking in all levels of government. The CoR will adopt in its plenary session on 12-14 October an opinion on the European Commission's Regional Innovation Scoreboard (rapporteur Mikel Irujo , ES/EA), the next edition of which will be published in 2021. The CoR will also publish the first Annual Regional and Local Barometer, which focuses on the effects of COVID-19 in EU regions. More information: During the meeting on 1 October, SEDEC members had a preliminary discussion on following two draft opinions that will be adopted at the next SEDEC meeting on 25 November: Following new rapporteurs were appointed: Yoomi Renstrom (SE/PES), Member of Ovanaker Municipal Council, for the opinion A Union of equality: EU anti-racism action plan 2020-2025 Gillian Coughlan (IE/Renew E.), Member of Cork County Council, for Digital Education Action Plan 2021-2027. Resetting education and training for the digital age Emil Boc (RO/EPP), Mayor of Cluj-Napoca, for Achieving the European Education Area by 2025 Christophe Clergeau (FR/PES), Member of the Pays-de-la-Loire Regional Council, for A new ERA for Research and Innovation. Contact: pressecdr@cor.europa.eu D onald Trump has posted a deluge of tweets urging voters to support his election campaign as he continues his coronavirus recovery in hospital. The US president shared the series of tweets on Monday as he told voters to "SAVE OUR SECOND AMENDMENT" by voting for him. One tweet simply read: "SPACE FORCE. VOTE" while in another he wrote: "RELIGIOUS LIBERTY. VOTE!" Mr Trump claimed he had a 91 per cent approval rating in the tweets and boasted that his administration featured "THE STRONGEST EVERY MILITARY". In another tweet he directly addressed Virginia voters, telling them they "better vote for their favourite president" or risk losing "low taxes". "Your Governor wants to obliterate your Second Amendment," said Mr Trump. "I have stopped him. I am the only thing between you and your Second Amendment. Working hard in Virginia. Its IN PLAY. Better Vote for your favourite President, or wave goodbye to low taxes and gun rights!" It comes after a top doctor slammed Mr Trump's drive-by parade for supporters gathered outside the hospital where he is being treated for coronavirus as insanity. The US president staged the photo-op outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland on Saturday, moments after promising crowds a surprise on Twitter. Wearing a mask and surrounded by an extensive security detail - believed to be Secret Service agents - he waved to cheering fans from an armoured SUV motorcade, despite his doctor revealing he was on steroids for fluctuating oxygen levels. Confusion has surrounded the presidents condition, with public-facing White House doctors conflicting with sources by suggesting he could be discharged on Monday. The presidents positive Covid-19 diagnosis on Friday has put the spotlight on Mr Trump's vice president, Mike Pence, a month before the election. Mr Pence will take a leading role in campaigning around the country in the final stretch before the November 3 election. He is due to participate in the vice presidential debate with California Senator Kamala Harris on Wednesday. Mr Pence will likely be pressed to explain shifting accounts of the presidents health over the weekend and justify Mr Trumps decision to hold large in-person campaign rallies during a pandemic, events that often flouted public health guidelines by congregating thousands of mostly mask-less supporters. In sone good news for the LGBTQIA community India, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Monday became the first political party in the country to have an active LGBT cell. NCP Maharashtra President Jayant Patil & MP Supriya Sule formally launched the cell in Mumbai. Priya Patil has been appointed the state unit head. The NCP was the first to set up Yuvati (young women) cell. Now, it has set up LGBT cell to do justice to the deprived section," a party statement said quoting Patil. He also pitched for giving equal treatment to the LGBT community members. The cell comes as a surprise to many in India, a country where politicians time and again have expressed deep homophobia and disdain for the queer community. Out of 543 MPs in India, only 151 have ever spoken about LGBTQIA issues throughout their careers. MPs and politicians are also known to make openly homophobic and regressive comments about the queer community in India. The move was welcomed by netizens on Twitter, many of whom called it a progressive" move and sign of changing times. Finally some political party recognises the rights of LGBTQ+ community, hoping for a revolution in politics specifically on this agenda! @supriya_sule @Jayant_R_Patil @NCPspeaks https://t.co/k08eWbr4j5 rajul mishra (@mishra_rajul) October 5, 2020 Nice initiative Every party should learn from it.. https://t.co/XlwE7aWYGt The Nagpuri Potta (@p_syduck) October 5, 2020 This is an amazing initiative by NCP. Credit due where it's deserved. Adopting a more inclusive approach to politics is the way forward, and I hope other parties follow suit. https://t.co/BfxL1dqVs9 Kazim Rizvi (@kazimriz) October 5, 2020 The cell is expected to work to ensure the community members get their rights, Priya Patil said at an event held in Mumbai to commemorate the same. Apart from Priya Patil, the cell will have 13 other office-bearers, the statement said. Patil, a Mumbai-based transgender activist, joined NCP in 2019 ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi stressed to his Kenyan counterpart that Egypt insists on safeguarding its water rights by reaching a legal agreement concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) that puts in place clear rules for the filling and operating the dam, and that achieves the common interests of all parties. El-Sisi met on Sunday with Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta in Cairo to discuss issues of common interest and the latest regional developments, according to a statement by the presidency. During the meeting, El-Sisi assured that the water issue is of "the utmost significance" to the Egyptian people given that it is a matter of national security, the statement said. The two leaders agreed to intensify coordination between the two countries in the upcoming period concerning this "critical and vital issue," it added. Egypt and Sudan have been in talks with Ethiopia for years now to reach a legally binding agreement on the filling and operation of the massive hydropower dam that Addis Ababa is building on the Blue Nile. The latest round of talks mediated by the African Union (AU) came to a close in late August without reaching a consensus on the legal and technical points of contention, after Ethiopia proposed a package of non-binding guidelines for the filling and operation of the mega-dam. During the meeting with Kenyatta, El-Sisi voiced his appreciation for the deep-rooted relations, bilateral cooperation and unified vision between the two countries, affirming Egypt's keenness to strengthen ties and cooperation with Kenya in various fields. The Egyptian president offered to support Kenya with Egypt's development expertise with regard to major national projects, especially in the sectors of infrastructure, housing, utilities, and roads through specialised Egyptian companies, the statement pointed out. He also congratulated Kenyatta on his country's election as a non-permanent member of the Security Council in 2021-2022, expressing his confidence that Nairobi will be a good representative for Africa at the UN. Kenyatta said his country is keen on developing bilateral cooperation with Egypt and increasing trade exchange, as well as benefiting from Egyptian infrastructures companies in light of Kenya's national development plan for healthcare, low-cost housing, manufacturing and food security, according to the statement. He also lauded the "pivotal role" Egypt plays regionally to maintain peace and security, as well as Egypt's stances supporting stability in the Horn of Africa and East Africa. The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and head of Egypt's General Intelligence Service Abbas Kamel. Search Keywords: Short link: Continue Reading Below Advertisement Yet to understand where Shrek stands on the scale of Jewish-ness, one must look to his background. Before he was the star of a $3.5 billion movie franchise, he was the subject of a book by the "King of Cartoons," William Steig. Steig, the man who would ultimately birth Shrek, was born in 1907, the child of Jewish Eastern European immigrants who escaped anti-Semitic persecution, according to a write up from The Contemporary Jewish Museum. He spent his childhood in The Bronx before becoming an illustrator for The New Yorker in his early 20s, after selling the magazine a comic to help his family, who, according to Hey Alma, "lost everything" in The Great Depression. Throughout his 73-year tenure at the publication, where he worked until he died in 2003, he had more than 1,600 of his drawings published in the magazine, with his artwork gracing 120 New Yorker covers. Continue Reading Below Advertisement While his work had generally had more adult themes (no, not like that), in 1990, he released a children's book titled Shrek! about a green ogre whose name doubles as the romanization of the Yiddish word for "terror." The book has basically the same plot as the beloved movie, but with a Jewish mom (Jewish moms and grandmas make everything better) fortune-tellers, and swallowing a whole lighting bolt. However, according to Hey Alma, the story goes much deeper than just Yiddish names and Steig's heritage. The entire tale parallels Jewish history and scripture. Shrek's solitude in his Swamp and subsequent annoyances from fairy-tale creatures exiled by Lord Farquad is an allegory. "Shrek's swamp is basically a fantastical shtetl in the Pale of Settlement, the region the Russian Empire 'allowed' Jews to live in from 1791 to 1917," notes author Arielle Kaplan. Continue Reading Below Advertisement Yet the similarities don't stop there. Shrek and Donkey's quest to get Princess Fiona parallel a story from The Book of Numbers (Bamidbar 22:22-34), where "a two-timing prophet who voyages on a talking donkey to aid King Balak of Moab." The narrow bridge scene, where the dynamic duo of Shrek and Donkey are afraid of falling into a pit of lava, yet complete the task with patience and teamwork, according to Kaplan, is a callback to a Hebrew song entitled "Kol Ha'Olam Kulo," with lyrics that translate to "The whole world is a narrow bridge, and the essential thing is not to fear at all." Believe it or not, I'm no expert on Judaism (I only know how to bake a dank loaf of challah and host a Passover seder, where I somehow keep the food hot throughout the whole 40-minute ordeal while simultaneously managing not to burn down my apartment), so for all the deets, I'd highly recommend checking out the Hey Alma essay, linked here. For more weird Jew-ish content, follow Carly on Instagram @HuntressThompson and on Twitter @TennesAnyone. Lotus Gets UK Underwriting For New EV Lotus wins UK Government support and funding to deliver next-generation EV architecture (Hethel, UK 2 October 2020) An engineering partnership led by Lotus has won UK Government support and funding to develop an all-new next-generation Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) architecture. The news was confirmed today by the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC). The funding is awarded as part of the APCs Advanced Route to Market Demonstrator (ARMD) competition. Funded by the UK Governments Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), the competition is delivered on behalf of the APC by Cenex, the UKs Low Carbon and Fuel Cells Centre of Excellence. The successful application is called LEVA, which stands for Lightweight Electric Vehicle Architecture. Led by Lotus, it is targeting the acceleration of and innovation behind new lightweight structures for next-generation BEVs. Incorporating cutting-edge UK-based engineering and digital manufacturing expertise, LEVA will be a showcase for pioneering new BEV chassis and powertrain concepts. Lotus will collaborate with supply chain partner Sarginsons Industries and leading academics from Brunel University London to harness the full light-weighting potential of the vehicle architecture. Matt Windle, Executive Director of Engineering, Lotus, commented: This is great news for our industry and its transition to electrification. As a collaboration between Lotus, Sarginsons Industries and Brunel University London there is a wealth of talent involved, and we are excited to have already begun the project work. Following the launch of the Lotus Evija, our all-electric hypercar, this project is a key building block in our vision to deliver a full range of electrified Lotus performance cars For The Drivers. Funding of this nature is critical to stimulate the automotive industry and supply chain as both continue to adjust to a rapidly changing landscape. More details on Project LEVA will be released by Lotus and its partners in due course. Lotus to establish new advanced technology centre at University of Warwicks Wellesbourne Campus From 07 to 18 September 2020, the WCO WCA region, through its two Regional Liaison Offices in charge of Intelligence (RILO), located respectively in Dakar, Senegal and Douala, Cameroon, hosted a webinar on intelligence, Customs Enforcement Network (CEN) and its applications. This webinar, attended by approximatively forty Customs officers specialized in the fight against fraud, the WCA Vice-chair, the Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB) and the Regional Training Centers (RTC), was moderated by the RILOs and experts from the WCA region and contained ten modules delivered in ten working days and in blocks of 2 hours each. Through this engagement it was possible to raise awareness and enhance the competence of the participants and emphasize the importance of intelligence in combating Customs fraud and transnational organized crime. It also provided an opportunity to train Customs staff on the use of the CEN. More specifically, this webinar has contributed to the achievement of the following objectives: better understanding of the WCO's intelligence policy; better understanding of the role of the Intelligence Service in Customs administrations (risk collection and analysis structure); better understanding and strengthening the role of the National RILO focal points in the risk analysis process; better knowledge of the CEN ; Increased and improved quality of data entered into CEN. For more information please contact capacity.building@wcoomd.org IT was the most anticipated comeback of the pandemic. And as the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Tony Holohan marched into Government Buildings today, armed with a leather-bound folder and avoiding questions from reporters, he bore the look of a man on a mission. It was supposed to be his first day back at the helm but an emergency meeting of the National Health Emergency Team (Nphet) yesterday saw Dr Holohan return a day early. Read More He hadnt chaired a Nphet meeting since stepping aside in July to care for his sick wife Emer, and whatever transpired during discussions with his fellow Nphet members, it resulted in him writing to Government to recommend nationwide lockdown. Dr Holohan was back to work, and back with a bang. The move, one which leaked to the public, came a mere three days after Dr Ronan Glynn came to an entirely different conclusion. In his letter to Government last Thursday, Dr Glynn, who as acting CMO has been Dr Holohans stand-in for the past two months, advised that Nphet felt nationwide Level 3 restrictions were unnecessary at the time. Dr Glynn, back now in in role as deputy chief medical officer, joined Dr Holohan today on his visit to meet with the three Government party leaders. The two men arrived together, albeit a good two metres part, but the spotlight was firmly on one. It came as a surprise to many last week when it emerged that Dr Holohan was returning to his role as CMO. Similar shock had followed his announcement several months earlier that his wife Emer, who is also a doctor and who has has multiple myeloma, a blood cancer, and had entered palliative care. Publicly announcing his decision to stand aside from his job, Dr Holohan said he wanted to give his energy, attention and all of my time to Emer and to their two teenage children, Clodagh and Ronan. The former public health doctor appeared cool, calm and collected as he delivered his statement, a testament to the professionalism for which he is so well-known. According to those who know him, the decision to publicly reveal the circumstances behind his decision to temporarily leave his role would not have come easy. Now that he is back, amid circumstances that indicate a Covid-19 situation he is not happy with, the focus has turned to how Government will respond. In March, as the coronavirus crisis deepened, Dr Holohan was front and centre of efforts to co-ordinate a response. The former public health doctor has appeared cool, calm and collected. To the untrained eye he may seem like another senior health official, but to those who know him, his performance in the wake of the outbreak is being dubbed the ultimate comeback. Tony is no stranger to controversy, but CervicalCheck took its toll. He came in for a lot of criticism from various quarters, including the patient advocates, said one. [But now] you are seeing a man who is very poised and collected and thats because this isnt his first big gig. He has been very calm throughout and that is very important. There is no hysteria or panic and thats the outward image he projects but also the way he would be dealing with the crisis behind closed doors. It came as no shock in 2008 when Dr Holohan was appointed CMO. In his previous role as deputy CMO, he became the public face of the department, sent out by then health minister Mary Harney to do battle on Prime Time and TV news during various cancer scandals. Since then, he has been the person trotted out to face scrutiny in the wake of every major health crisis and scandal. He presided over the government response to the swine flu outbreak in 2011. Tony is extremely polished, said one former colleague. He is the go-to guy relating to health issues at a national level, so he has the ear of the people at the very top levels of government. Every time there is a Public Accounts Committee he is sitting beside the minister. He is at all the launches, all the campaigns - anti-smoking, alcohol misuse you name it, Tony is there front and centre. Dr Holohan was born in Dublin but grew up in Limerick city where he was a pupil of the Christian Brothers School. He is married with two children. A 1991 medical graduate of University College Dublin, who subsequently trained as a specialist in both general practice and public health medicine, Dr Holohan became deputy chief medical officer in 2001 and beat off stiff international competition to become CMO seven years later. He was part of the 2004 steering group that put together the HSE and one of the prime architects of the successful national cancer and primary care strategies. In March 2014, insiders say Dr Holohan caused quite a stir when he published a report into perinatal deaths at Portlaoise Hospital. In more recent years, say those who know him, he has undergone a dramatic personal transformation. After a significant lifestyle overhaul, that included a commitment to being more active and healthier, Dr Holohan emerged as a notably leaner version of his former self. He works long hours and could never be accused of being workshy. Although he has become the man we see only during a crisis, usually he spends his time advising on various policy issues. People sit up and take notice of what he says, said an insider. In March, Dr Holohan was criticised for a decision not to name a school in the east of the country where one of its pupils was confirmed as the first case of Covid-19 here. Despite the criticism, Dr Holohan has been explicit in stating that authorities will continue to take this approach in the future if there are other cases. Patient privacy, he said, had to be protected and without trust people would not come forward. Tony is no novice and people around him know that, said a former colleague. There was a lead-in to this crisis. There was no lead-in to CervicalCheck and thats the key distinction. When you have a lead-in you can plan and prepare. The Ontario Select Yearling Sale would like to announce the COVID-19 protocols for those planning to attend the upcoming yearling sale on October 17 at Winbak Farm of Canada in Inglewood, Ont. Ontario Select Yearling Sale Manager Pat Woods is happy with the response from horsepeople towards the new sale. We have received very positive feedback from people so far," said Woods. "They are understanding of the restrictions and just happy that there is going to be a live sale whether they bid live on-site or online. We have explained to everyone who calls that space is limited on sale day due to government restrictions. It has been stressed that only the trainer or one person from an ownership group can attend on sale day. Prospective attendees have been very understanding. The health and safety of the sale participants and staff is of paramount importance to all of us at the Ontario Select Yearling Sale. These guidelines are in place and intended to assist with the safe operation during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is of utmost importance that we follow and adhere to the regulations set forth by Peel Region Public Health and the Province of Ontario. All attendees MUST pre-register as a bidder with the Ontario Select Yearling Sale. Spots are limited due to Province of Ontario restrictions. No spectators will be allowed, only registered bidders due to the limited spots. Sign ups are filling fast and very limited. You can go to the ontarioselectyearlingsale.com website to register. If you show up on sale day without pre-booking your spot, you will be turned away. NO EXCEPTIONS. Online bidding is available for those who are unable to attend. You must pre-register to bid on-line. All on-line bidders can go to ontarioselectyearlingsale.com and register for online bidding. Screening measures, including temperature checks and health screening questions, will be in place to gain admittance to the sale grounds for all staff, participants, and attendees. All sale attendees and staff MUST wear cloth face coverings at all times. Attendees will not be allowed to congregate and must keep at least six feet of distance between people. Seating in the outdoor tents will be kept at six feet between chairs. Food trucks will be on site for attendees. No alcohol is permitted on the sale grounds. On site cleaning and disinfection procedures will be implemented with regular sanitation of high touch surfaces continually throughout the day. All viewings on October 15 and 16 are by appointment only. Please call Winbak Farm of Canada to book your time (905-838-2145). Viewing on sale day is only for pre-registered attendees The Ontario Select Yearling Sale really appreciates the efforts of all the horsepeople who are doing their absolute best to keep everyone safe. We understand these are trying times and your efforts and patience does not go unnoticed. Those who would like further information are asked to call Pat Woods (905-244-3014) or sales office manager Michelle (905-838-2145). We ask that you keep checking our website for the most up to date information. (Ontario Select Yearling Sale) This season Bigg Boss brings a lot of changes in the contestants lives and house rules with the introduction of ex-contestants as mentors. Bigg Boss 14 participant Rubina Dilaik got into a heated argument with senior Bigg Boss 14 contestants Sidharth Shukla, Gauahar Khan and Hina Khan. The television star did not like the task imposed on her which would make her stay without any amenities and spending the entire week in the same clothes. The teaser of the incident was dropped on Colors TV official Instagram page. Rubina and fellow participants Nishant Singh Malkani, Jaan Kumar Sanu and Sara Gurpal, are among the rejected contestants this season. They must complete the tasks set by seniors in order to enter the main house. The Chotti Bahu famed actor has been warned that her inability to do the task will lead to her elimination. This season mentors Sidharth, Hina, and Gauahar will be playing a special role and get special powers for the first 14 days in the house. The mentors are also going to decide which contestants will be allowed to enjoy special services of the Bigg Boss mall, spa theatres in the new house. The controversial game show tonight will see another verbal spat between former winners, Gauahar Khan and Sidharth Shukla. Gauahar had previously too made it obvious she wasnt too happy with Sidharth winning the Bigg Boss 13 title and now it would be interesting to watch them being together in the same Bigg Boss house which might definitely lead to a lot of disagreements and arguments. Also Read: CBI revealed Sushant was a characterless and playful artist: Shiv Sena on AIIMS report Produced by Endemol Shine India, the Hindi reality game show is a huge hit and this season will be telecasted at 10:30 PM during weekdays and at 9 PM on weekends. In the premiere episode, host Salman Khan introduced the mentors and contestants till now but one does not know what surprises keep unfolding and revealing as the show advances. Also Read: Christopher Nolans Tenet tops USD 300 million globally Amaravati, Oct 6 : Andhra Pradesh opposition leader and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) supremo, Nara Chandrababu Naidu, has written another missive to the state top cop, alleging violation of the rights and freedoms enshrined in the Constitution of India for all on Monday. "There has been a consistent attack on the freedom of speech and expression as guaranteed by Article 19 (1) (a). As the leader of the opposition, it is my duty to bring such undemocratic acts to your notice for appropriate action," wrote Naidu to Director General of Police (DGP) D. Gautam Sawang. Citing statistics from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), Naidu claimed that the highest number of cases registered on police personnel anywhere in India was in AP. "Out of 4,068 cases registered against police personnel across India, 1,681 cases (41 per cent) were registered in Andhra Pradesh alone. These numbers speak for themselves and reflect the functioning of the police in today's AP," he claimed. He alleged that attacks are continuously happening on dalits, tribals, backward classes, Muslims, women and journalists in the state. "Sadly, the act of head tonsuring to humiliate fellow human beings is continuing unabated in the state," he alleged. Cognizant of all these cases and other atrocities, Naidu told Sawang that people's faith in police has eroded. "Therefore, I appeal to you to restore law and order situation in the state by allowing police to discharge their duties impartially and fearlessly," he added. India will extend a surcharge on taxes on luxury goods including cars and tobacco products beyond 2022, under plans to help states repay loans raised to meet revenue shortfalls in the current fiscal year, the finance minister said on Monday. The GST council has approved to extend the cess (surcharge) beyond five years," Nirmala Sitharaman told reporters after a virtual meeting with state finance ministers. The next meeting of the GST council, comprising federal and state finance ministers, would be held on Oct. 12 to work out the details, she said. The surcharge on luxury goods, which varies from 12% to 200%, is part of the national goods and services tax (GST) introduced in 2017, and was due to expire in 2022. Tax receipts of the federal and state governments fell about 40% year-on-year in the five months to August due to the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. The Indian economy is projected to contract by about 10% in the current financial year ending in March 2021, private economists said, against the initial government estimates of about 6% growth. The federal government, already facing a shortfall in tax receipts, has asked the states to borrow up to 1.1 trillion rupees ($15.05 billion) from the market in the current fiscal year ending in March 2021, as the surcharge collections would not be sufficient to compensate them. Many opposition-ruled states have opposed the move, saying it is up to the federal government to meet the shortfall by borrowing itself. Ten states demand that full compensation should be paid to the states during the current year as per clauses in the law and centre should borrow," said Thomas Issac, finance minister of the southern Indian state of Kerala, referring to the central government. Under Level Five all non-essential businesses would close (stock image) A return to a full lockdown will cost the Government up to 250m a week, according to estimates from economists. This is only looking at the direct cost to the Government in terms of social welfare payments. It does not take into account costs that impacted businesses will continue to incur such as rent and electricity. This scenario, which Dermot OLeary, chief economist at Goodbody, estimates could cost the Government 1bn over a four-week period, assumes the pandemic unemployment payment (PUP) and Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) payment rates that existed back in April will be restored. These payments have been tapered as a result of the view that the country was getting back to some sort of normality. If the PUP and EWSS previously the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme are not restored to their originate rate of up to 350 per week, a return to Level Five will cost the Government around 650m over the four weeks, according to Mr OLeary. Nphets recommendation that the country returns to Level five restrictions for the next four weeks looks like a disproportionate response, Mr O'Leary said. Compared to the measures taken by other countries and to the situation at the time of the first lockdown in March, it looks like a disproportionate response to close all non-essential businesses." The recommendation by the health professionals highlights how vulnerable the economy is to public health decisions, he added. Under Level five, people would be asked to stay at home and all businesses other than those deemed essential would close. Given the likely economic impact, a wholesale reconfiguring of supports would be necessary. With next week's Budget preparations in the final stretch, taking Nphet's advice would significantly change the short-term priorities, Mr OLeary added. The recommendation from Nphet comes just over a week out from the announcement of Budget 2021. The states deficit this year expected to be over 20bn, down from previous expectations that it would be close to 30bn. Massive government spending to support the economy through the pandemic has put the Exchequer balance 9.4bn in the red for the first nine months of the year. However, strong corporate and income tax receipts has offset the spending somewhat. Most of those who have lost their jobs due to the pandemic are on lower paid salaries and fall outside the income tax net, according to the Department of Finance. Commenting on the recommendation from Nphet, Retail Ireland said any move to close significant swathes of retail as part of new Covid restrictions "would have a devastating impact on thousands of businesses and jobs." "This must be avoided," Arnold Dillon, Retail Ireland director, said. "No evidence has been presented that retail settings are a significant cause of Covid transmission. In fact, the sector has radically transformed how it operates, with face masks, social distancing and other hygiene measure, to ensure a safe and highly controlled environment for customers and staff." Adrian Cummins, CEO of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said a move to Level Five lockdown would be Catastrophic for the hospitality industry. If we go back to Level Five thats 180,000 jobs gone, businesses that will never return. The industry is on the edge of collapse. There is now huge pressure and focus on the Budget to come up with a survival package for the industry. He added that there are serious questions about who is actually running the country. EQT Real Estate II surpasses its target size of EUR 750 million by 33 percent following strong support from both new and existing international blue-chip investors by 33 percent following strong support from both new and existing international blue-chip investors EQT Real Estate II follows a thematic investment approach focusing on high-conviction, value-add investment opportunities primarily in the logistics and residential real estate sectors The Fund benefits from EQT Real Estate's "local with locals" approach with 25 professionals based in EQT's offices in London , Stockholm , Madrid , Milan and Paris STOCKHOLM, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- EQT is pleased to announce that the EQT Real Estate II fund (the "Fund") has held its final close at its hard cap of EUR 1 billion in fee-paying assets under management. Demand from both existing and new investors was robust, with commitments into the Fund coming from a diversified group of investors across Europe, the Nordics, Asia, North America and the Middle East. The successful fundraise of EQT Real Estate II exceeded its target size of EUR 750 million and, at EUR 1 billion, is more than 2.5 times larger than its predecessor fund, EQT Real Estate I. The Fund will seek to make direct and indirect controlling investments in real estate assets, portfolios, operating companies and joint ventures and will target equity investments ranging in size from EUR 40 million up to EUR 200 million. EQT Real Estate II will execute a thematic investment approach with a focus on attractive investments which are decoupled from the financial cycle. Target opportunities, which are underpinned by key secular growth drivers, include urban logistics and warehouse assets that benefit from an ongoing shift in retail consumption trends towards e-commerce and residential investments, including new build for-rent housing, student housing and senior living, which benefit from continued favorable supply-demand dynamics, urbanization and population growth. These are sectors that the EQT Real Estate Advisory Team has extensively researched and in which it has built strong investment convictions. The Fund benefits from EQT Real Estate's "local with locals" approach (the team's 25 investment professionals are based in EQT's offices in London, Stockholm, Madrid, Milan and Paris). The team will also benefit from the knowledge and resources of the wider EQT platform to source and execute off-market investment opportunities and create value through intensive asset management. The team's expertise combined with EQT's proven sustainability framework allow EQT Real Estate to navigate future trends to meet the current and future needs of occupiers. To date, EQT Real Estate II has committed capital into four high conviction investment programs in Sweden, France and the UK, all with a social impact strategy underpinned by EQT's industry leading sustainability credentials: Stendorren Fastigheter - majority control of a publicly-listed company which owns a portfolio of 733,000 sqm of operational logistics / urban warehouse real estate across 124 assets in and around Stockholm and a further 666,000 sqm of consented land on which it plans to build 800 apartment units and additional logistics / urban warehouse assets; - majority control of a publicly-listed company which owns a portfolio of 733,000 sqm of operational logistics / urban warehouse real estate across 124 assets in and around and a further 666,000 sqm of consented land on which it plans to build 800 apartment units and additional logistics / urban warehouse assets; Svenska Verksamhetsfastigheter (Rock) - a portfolio of 28 urban logistics properties located in university cities around Sweden with a pipeline of additional add-on acquisitions; - a portfolio of 28 urban logistics properties located in university cities around with a pipeline of additional add-on acquisitions; Nest - a residential solutions platform in France with plans to deliver 4,000 purpose-built apartment units to address the housing and services needs of people with physical disabilities; and - a residential solutions platform in with plans to deliver 4,000 purpose-built apartment units to address the housing and services needs of people with physical disabilities; and Saturn - a residential joint venture focused on the delivery of 3,000 newly built, high-quality rental homes in affordable parts of Greater London . The Real Estate Advisory Team is also actively evaluating transactions in Germany, Spain, Italy and Benelux. Robert Rackind, Partner and Head of EQT Real Estate, commented: "We would like to thank all of the investors - both new and existing - for their support of EQT Real Estate II. As we are entering a new investment cycle, we see a strong pipeline of attractive value-add investment opportunities that fit EQT Real Estate's thematic approach to investing primarily into Europe's key cities and in particular in our current focus on `beds' and `sheds' assets that are benefitting from positive growth drivers and secular trends." Lennart Blecher, Deputy Managing Partner and Head of EQT Real Assets, added: "The high demand that EQT Real Estate II received from a truly global blue-chip investor base is a testament to the compelling combination of EQT's platform and our Real Estate Advisory Team's proven real estate expertise. EQT's ability to cross-pollinate market knowledge, draw on expertise in key areas like sustainability and share networks across our platform is an excellent complement to EQT Real Estate's in-house talent." Christian Sinding, CEO and Managing Partner at EQT, commented: "Real estate is one of the most exciting growth areas for EQT and the success of this fundraise is a reflection of EQT Real Estate's ability to source attractive opportunities and then develop sustainable, future-proofed assets, while delivering strong results to its investors. We look forward to continuing to build on that success." More than 35 percent of the commitments were closed after February 2020 during a period of significant global lockdowns due to the COVID-19 pandemic which showcases not only the investor appetite for the Fund but also the strengths of EQT's tech infrastructure as the latter part of the fundraising process was carried out digitally. EQT Real Estate II is backed by a highly regarded, international investor base including public and corporate pension funds, insurance companies, sovereign wealth funds, global asset management firms, commercial banks, endowments and foundations, private wealth channels and family offices. Contact: Robert Rackind Partner and Head of EQT Real Estate Investment Advisor to EQT Real Estate I and II +44 7860 271 392 Eric Lemer Managing Director Head of Business and Capital Development of EQT Real Estate Investment Advisor to EQT Real Estate I and II +44 7971 226 842 EQT Press Office, [email protected] UK media enquiries: Greenbrook [email protected] +44 20 7952 2000 About EQT EQT is a differentiated global investment organization with more than EUR 62 billion in raised capital and around EUR 40 billion in assets under management across 19 active funds. EQT funds have portfolio companies in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America with total sales of more than EUR 27 billion and approximately 159,000 employees. EQT works with portfolio companies to achieve sustainable growth, operational excellence and market leadership. More info: www.eqtgroup.com Follow EQT on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram About EQT Real Estate EQT Real Estate, part of EQT Group and Investment Advisor to EQT managed real estate funds, seeks direct and indirect controlling interests in value-add real estate assets, portfolios and operating companies across gateway cities in the UK and Europe that offer significant potential for value creation through repositioning, redevelopment, refurbishment and active asset management. The EQT Real Estate Advisory Team comprises 25 experienced Investment Advisory Professionals working out of EQT's offices in London, Madrid, Milan, Paris and Stockholm. The Investment Advisory Team, which has access to the full EQT network including 11 European offices and more than 500 EQT Advisors, has experience analyzing and investing across the pan-European real estate market and has, collectively, advised on over 130 real estate projects in multiple asset classes across Europe. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/eqt/r/eqt-real-estate-ii-closes-at-eur-1bn-hard-cap---fortifies-commitment-to-thematic--value-add-investme,c3210318 The following files are available for download: https://mb.cision.com/Main/87/3210318/1314874.pdf Press release EQT Real Estate II 201005 SOURCE EQT Our company is a producer of acai pellets which is consisted of natural biomass that helps the preservation and sustainability of the environment. It is a renewable energy solution that uses acai seeds as an alternative of biomass for heating system radiators, boilers, burners, for both residential and industrial applications, which presents considerably higher yield compared to other alternative biomass on the market, and excellent cost x benefit. The raw material used are acai seeds, which are obtained from native acai berries from the rainforest of Amazonia. The acai berry has a dark purple skin and yellow flesh surrounding a large seed. After the extraction of the pulp for food purposes, the raw material (acai seeds) passes through a pre cleaning process to remove the fibers from the seeds in our industrial plant, and then through screening, followed by a process of drying in ovens and again is sifted, creating a product of high quality and highly efficient, being an alternative biomass considerably superior to other biomass alternatives on the market. After being processed, the acai pellets obtain a moisture content below 10% M.C. The annual production capacity is up to 50,000.00 tons per year. We can also increase our production with confirmed long-term orders. Properties: Ash of 12%, BTU's at 7,000 and low ash of only 1.18% We are not exporting to the international market yet. We are selling in the domestic market in Brazil to companies like Coca- Cola etc. We can sell our production on FCA, FOB, CNF, IF, DAP terms (Incoterms 2010). - 15 kg bags - 80 EUR/ton, FOB Vila do Conde port in Barcarena PA Brazil (Incoterms 2010). We also can accept CIF order at 2.40 EURO per 15 Kg bags. - big bags (1200 kg) - 75 EUR/ton, FOB Vila do Conde port in Barcarena PA Brazil (Incoterms 2010). We also accept CIF orders at 165.00 EURO / TON / CANADA / USDA / EUROPE / ASIA main ports. Vila do Conde Port in Barcarena PA is 100 Kilometers from our plant and we can ship in containers. For complete vessels orders we can ship complete bulk vessels by our company for competitive overseas freight rates. Payment terms: We work on prepayment (bank transfer) or L/C. Any questions please dont hesitate in contacting us. These are images of people charged with a crime in Racine County. Booking photos are provided by Racine County law enforcement officials. A de Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev speaks during an address to the nation in Baku, Azerbaijan, Oct. 4, 2020. Handout via Reuters Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev demanded on Sunday that Armenia set a timetable for withdrawing from the enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding Azeri territories, and said Azerbaijan would not cease military action until that happened. In a televised address to the nation, Aliyev said Azeri forces were advancing in a week-long offensive to retake lands that they lost to ethnic Armenians in the 1990s. "The Azeri soldier is chasing them like a dog, the Azeri soldier is standing at their posts, we have taken their weaponry, we are carrying out the mission of liberation," he declared. The content and tone of Aliyev's message made clear that Azerbaijan would not entertain calls for an immediate ceasefire, as Russia, the United States and European Union have repeatedly urged. "Azerbaijan has one condition, and that is the liberation of its territories," he said. "Nagorno-Karabakh is the territory of Azerbaijan. We must return and we shall return." San Antonio-based USAA Federal Savings Bank has received a failing grade from a bank regulator over evidence of discriminatory or other illegal credit practices. The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency lowered USAA Banks overall Community Reinvestment Act performance evaluation rating from satisfactory to needs to improve after uncovering evidence of 600 violations involving customers. The CRA, enacted in 1977, requires regulators to assess a banks record of helping to meet the credit needs of the community, including in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods. On ExpressNews.com: Virginia woman sues USAA Bank for calling her at least 130 times to collect overdue bill The OCC found evidence of 546 violations of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act, including failure to provide protections to military reservists as the act requires, wrongful repossession of vehicles and the filing of inaccurate affidavits in default judgments in civil court cases. The act provides protections for service members in the event their military service impedes their ability to meet financial obligations. Among other things, it protects them from default judgments. The regulator also found evidence of 54 violations of the Military Lending Act relating to collection of past due amounts from members. The act protects service members and their families from lending practices that could pose a threat to military readiness and hurt service member retention. We are committed to serving every USAA member with excellence and in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations, USAA spokesman Matt Hartwig said in an email Monday. The rating by the OCC does not reflect our ongoing commitment to lend to and invest in local low- and moderate-income communities, he added. Our mission calls us to help ensure the financial security of all our members. We have higher expectations of ourselves and are focused on restoring our CRA ratings to previous levels. The OCC oversees all national banks and federal savings associations. It is an independent bureau of the U.S. Treasury Department. USAA Bank had about $100.8 billion in assets as of June 30, which places it among the 35 largest banks in the country. SA Inc.: Get the best of business news sent directly to your inbox The OCC completed its evaluation of USAA Bank last year, but the findings were released only last week. The bank is a subsidiary of insurance and financial services giant USAA, which has about 13 million members made up of current and former members of the military and their families. Kenneth H. Thomas, a Miami banking analyst who is president of Community Development Fund Advisors, said USAA Banks CRA evaluation was rare and surprising because only 2 percent of banks receive a failing grade. USAA gets an A for its ubiquitous television advertisements to bring in members of the military as customers but gets an F for compliance with regulations, Thomas said. The ads tout that its doing right by its members. Theyre spending a lot of money on TV ads, huge amounts of money, he said. They need to spend a lot more money in the area of compliance. Were in banking. Were the most heavily regulated industry in the world. That regulation means youve got a license, and as part of that license, youve got to go along with the compliance laws. Theyre just not doing a good job of that. The violations were especially egregious because of the number and those who were affected members of the military, Thomas said. The bank needs to be held to a higher standard, he added. Its not just a big bank its a big bank that takes care of our military, he said. We always talk about vulnerable populations now. This is a very vulnerable population not just because there are a lot of minorities, (but many are of) low to moderate income. For that reason, we have to be extra careful in dealing with them. Blue Star Families, a nonprofit organization that supports military families, conducted a survey in 2018 that found enlisted servicemen and servicewomen experience financial barriers, including lower wages than the civilian population. That hurts their ability to save for emergencies, manage debt and qualify for loans. The survey, sponsored by USAA, was mentioned in the OCCs report. The failing grade marks the latest black eye for USAA Bank. Earlier this year, as the federal government sent stimulus checks to Americans as a small financial cushion during the widening coronavirus crisis, USAA Bank kept portions of the checks deposited into some customer accounts that were overdrawn or had negative balances. On ExpressNews.com: USAA reverses course on seizing federal stimulus checks Criticism of USAA Banks harsh stance erupted on social media after news reports, leading the bank to reverse course. It said it would allow members with negative account balances to access the full amount of their stimulus checks. For members with overdrawn accounts at the bank, it said it would postpone collection for 90 days from the date the stimulus check was deposited. Last year, the bank had two run-ins with regulators, including the OCC. In January 2019, about two months before the CRA evaluation of USAA Bank, the OCC issued a cease-and-desist order against the bank for engaging in unsafe and unsound practices. USAA Banks internal controls and information systems did not comply with certain guidelines, the OCC determined. The bank also failed to implement and maintain a Risk Management Program equivalent with its size and risk profile. That action followed by days the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau directing the bank to pay a $3.5 million penalty and $12 million in restitution to settle charges that it violated banking laws. The bank failed to honor customers stop-payment requests on electronic fund transfers and had reopened customers previously closed deposit accounts without their authorization, the CFPB found. The bank and the consumer protection watchdog agency entered into a consent order to settle the matter. The bank did not admit or deny the agencys findings in agreeing to settle. USAA Banks CRA evaluation wasnt all bad. Its lending levels reflect an excellent responsiveness to credit needs in its assessment area, the OCC found. The bank ranked in the top 1 percent of all lenders in originating home mortgage loans. But the OCC concluded that USAA Banks geographic distribution of consumer loans was poor during the evaluation period in 2017 and 2018. The proportion of vehicle loans in low- and moderate-income communities was well below the proportion of such households in those areas, the OCC said. Patrick Danner Patrick Danner covers banking, insurance, business litigation and bankruptcies. To read more from Patrick, become a subscriber. pdanner@express-news.net | Twitter: @AlamoPD GRAND RAPIDS, MI Celebration Cinema will begin reopening its theaters Friday, Oct. 9. The Grand Rapids-based company said theaters scheduled to open Friday include Celebration Cinema at Studio Park in downtown Grand Rapids, Celebration Cinema Rivertown in Grandville, Celebration Cinema North in Grand Rapids, Celebration Cinema Crossroads in Portage, Celebration Cinema Lansing and Cinema Carousel in Muskegon. Theaters in Benton Harbor, Mount Pleasant, as well as Celebration Cinema South (located south of Grand Rapids in Gaines Township), are scheduled to open in upcoming weeks, according to a press release from Studio C, the company that owns Celebration Cinema. Weve been working towards this day in collaboration with our entire industry, JD Loeks, president of Studio C, said in a statement. We fully believe in the value of gathering around stories, art and music. We appreciate the importance of getting the details right to provide safety and comfort for our team and guests. Theaters in most of Michigans Lower Peninsula have been closed since March in response to Gov. Gretchen Whitmers executive orders designed to minimize the spread of the coronavirus. On Sept. 25, Whitmer announced that she was giving theaters permission to reopen on Oct. 9. Celebration Cinema says its taking the following steps to reopen safely: Physical distancing measures will include reduced seating capacity, in accordance with CDC and local health department guidelines. Reserved seating will automatically space groups apart from each other. Celebration Cinema staff will use personal protective equipment, including face masks. Guests are required to wear masks, though they may be removed when a guest is seated and enjoying their popcorn and other movie snacks. All customers are encouraged to pre-purchase tickets online at celebrationcinema.com or via the Celebration Cinema app. Online convenience fees are temporarily waived to minimize lines. Celebration Cinema will not be accepting cash for payment. Please plan for online, credit card or gift card purchases only. Frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces will be ongoing, and deep cleaning overnight. Movie treats will be available! Avoid lines by purchasing on the Celebration Cinema website or app for delivery direct to your theatre seat. Read more: All over the place: Universities' COVID-19 data has no reporting standards Are Michiganders still living under coronavirus orders? Gov. Whitmer asks Supreme Court to clarify Police looking for missing man last seen exiting vehicle, running into Michigan wilderness A White Virginia State Police trooper has been cleared of criminal wrongdoing in a controversial traffic stop during which he can be heard on video telling a Black driver "you are going to get your a-- whooped," before forcefully removing the man from his car. Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney Steve Descano said Trooper Charles Hewitt's conduct was reprehensible, but that the stop of Derrick Thompson, Hewitt's request for Thompson to leave his vehicle and the amount of force used on Thompson were legal. Video of the April 2019 incident on Interstate 495 in Fairfax County was shared widely on social media and gained national media attention. Thompson filmed the encounter with his cellphone. "Although we can all agree that this officer's demeanor does not conform to what our community would hope to see from law enforcement officers, our review is limited to issues of criminal liability," Descano's office said in a statement. "Bearing that in mind, this Office has determined that there is no basis for a criminal charge arising from this incident." Joshua Erlich, an attorney for Thompson, had previously sent a letter to Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring claiming Thompson's constitutional rights had been violated during the stop. He called the lack of charges "disappointing." "We will reassess what our options are for moving forward," Erlich said. Hewitt did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but the state police superintendent, Col. Gary Settle, said the department was beginning an internal probe of the incident. Hewitt is on administrative leave. "Even though criminal charges are not being brought forth in this incident, Trooper Hewitt's conduct is still inexcusable and not reflective of our department, our personnel, or our standards of conduct," Settle said in a statement. Thompson was stopped April 20, 2019, for an expired inspection decal, state police said. Another VSP trooper said she smelled the odor of marijuana coming from Thompson's car and wanted to search it, the state police said. The video Thompson filmed begins with him sitting in the driver's seat of his car, where he is passively resisting Hewitt. At one point, Thompson tells Hewitt that his detention and a request for him to get out of his car are unlawful. Hewitt leans toward Thompson and screams: "Take a look at me. I am a f---ing specimen right here, buddy. You have gotten on my last nerve, all right?" Thompson tells Hewitt he has his hands up. Hewitt responds: "You are going to get your a-- whooped." He repeats the f-word before saying, "I'm going to give you one more chance. You can bring that with you - I'll let you film the whole thing." After some more back-and-forth, Hewitt tells Thompson he is being placed under arrest, looks into the camera and says, "Watch the show, folks." Hewitt is then seen putting his arm around Thompson's neck and wrestling Thompson out of the car as he yells for help. The action that follows is captured only on audio, but Erlich said his client was taken to the ground and pinned there, and his face was cut. "Although we join with many who find this interaction upsetting, the evidence that is available and that this office reviewed does not present a use of force that rises to the level of criminal liability," said the statement from Descano's office. "This was a lawful stop, a lawful request for an individual to exit a vehicle, and a lawful use of force to remove that individual from his vehicle. Although this officer could have used a more appropriate demeanor, his actions do not meet the burden of a criminal offense as it currently appears in the Code of Virginia." Thompson was placed under arrest for counts including misdemeanor obstruction of justice without force, which he pleaded guilty to in Fairfax County General District Court in 2019. The video of the stop did not become public until Erlich tweeted it in July and reached out to Herring with his letter. Erlich said they were awaiting the resolution of the criminal case before considering filing a civil suit. Thompson said in July that he was left shaken by the incident. "That was honestly the worst thing I've gone through in my life," Thompson said. "It's shocking. Reliving the moment through social media has been shaky." Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Reuters) London, United Kingdom Mon, October 5, 2020 19:04 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4939b02 2 People Prince-William,Britain,royals,climate,documentary Free Prince William has expressed his concerns about rising sea levels and other impacts of climate change in a television documentary to be aired in Britain on Monday, the ITV channel reported. William, grandson of Queen Elizabeth and second-in-line to the British throne, was interviewed on the royal Sandringham Estate, which is located in East Anglia, a low-lying part of eastern England. ITV said part of William's message in the film was that climate change posed threats to everyone, including in Britain. "Youll lose the wildlife habitats here, youd lose the farming, youd lose the communities," William said, according to a report on the ITV website. Read also: Prince William, wife Kate join Attenborough after film screening "Its in everyones interest that we protect these sorts of areas. We have to get on top of the climate change issue." William said the rising incidence of extreme weather events was a threat, including on his own doorstep at Sandringham. "You suddenly realize those extreme events are going to happen more and more in the future. And also how low-lying, particularly this part of East Anglia all is." Under Britain's unwritten constitution, the monarch and senior members of the royal family do not get involved in politics. However, the royals do sometimes use their platform to campaign on issues of public interest that are deemed uncontroversial. Callais is one of more than 200 "bouquinistes" who sell secondhand books and engravings along a three-kilometre (1.8-mile) stretch of river embankment - a tradition going back centuries that is now under threat from the coronavirus. While the job was never lucrative Callais, who is campaigning to add the bouquinistes to UNESCO's world heritage list, said the dearth of out-of-towners along the main tourist drag from Notre-Dame cathedral to the Louvre museum had left him struggling to sell anything. "I sold a book for 16 euros today, Ive got another customer whos going to owe me the money later, and thats a great day for me," he said. Before the pandemic struck, Callais said a third of his customers were foreign tourists and another third came from elsewhere in France: "Were totally dependent on tourism." Even after France's lockdown was lifted in May, many fellow bouquinistes concluded that re-opening was pointless, he added. In August, the government said the pandemic had cost France up to 40 billion euros ($47 billion) in lost tourism revenues. It provided some aid for the tourist sector but, as booksellers, the bouquinistes were not eligible. They got some support from a solidarity fund, but that ended in July, a finance ministry official said. Books have been sold on the banks of the Seine since the 16th century. Spots are now allocated for five-year periods by the city council. The booksellers pay no rent but must open at least four days a week and, in normal times, bountiful summers would make up for slower sales in the winter. "Once youve sampled life on the riverbank it's a bit like a drug... We come for the human interaction, the exchanges, the sharing of knowledge," Callais said. "We (also) suffered a lot with competition from internet... companies which sell books but which arent booksellers. Theyre machines to make cash. Theres no poetry in them." It's up to you to get ready. Unless you are already receiving Social Security benefits and then will be automatically enrolled in the program, you won't get a letter in the mail reminding you that it's time to start making these decisions. What's more, the timetable is specific and important. You can start signing up three months before you turn 65, and you'll have until three months after your birthday month to enroll. If you miss that deadline, you may end up paying higher premiums. If you are still working and have employer-sponsored health coverage, you can probably wait to sign up but more about that later. Taking control of your health care You'll need to do some homework before you start assessing options and picking plans. Make a list of your doctors and decide how important it is to you that you can continue seeing them once you are on Medicare. Also make a list of any medications you take so you can make sure any prescription drug plan you select will meet your needs. Think about your lifestyle. Are you a homebody and never travel outside the U.S.? Or are you an adventurer who goes abroad frequently? Do you split your time between residences and need medical care in different states? All these factors are likely to figure into the decisions you make. Your financial situation also is important. You'll learn through this guide that Medicare helps pay for medical care for older Americans and people with disabilities. But it's not free. You'll want to choose an option you can afford and build the array of out-of-pocket costs into your budget. And take time to review the ways the federal government can help you pay Medicare's costs if you can't afford them. You need to pay attention to all of Medicare's parts: Part A covers hospital and hospice care and some skilled nursing services after you've been in the hospital. Part B includes doctor visits and other outpatient services. Part C is Medicare Advantage, which is a combination of Parts A and B and usually Part D, which helps pay for prescription drugs. Medicare adapts to the coronavirus Medicare is also an evolving program. Medicare officials have made changes in some of the programs rules and procedures in an effort to help enrollees cope with the needs and uncertainties brought on by the COVID-19 crisis. Will life ever get back to normal? As COVID-19 continues to spread, it's a question that haunts all sectors of society but perhaps most of all with the fear of being pushed further into the shadows in an age of social distancing darkening their present and clouding the future. Eating one day, going hungry the next, their children turfed out of school because of lack of devices needed for online education and unable to make rent, the last six months have been a nightmare and one that shows no signs of ending, say several community members and those who fight for their rights. When the lockdown happened, each and every community was affected. The government seemed to care about all and offered them some form of relief but there has been nothing for us, Lalita Harijan, who has been working as a sex worker in Karnataka's Belgavi district for over two decades, told PTI. It's about immediate relief but also revival for a line of work that involves physical proximity and may have led to social stigma but also a livelihood on which their families depend, she said. There have been efforts to increase awareness about sanitising their premises and also innovations such virtual ways of servicing clients, but to little avail. Lalita would make between Rs 400-Rs 1,000 a day before the pandemic struck but hasn't earned a rupee since the nationwide lockdown that came into effect in March. With no income and a family of nine people to feed mother, son and daughter and their spouses, their three children and herself -- survival is almost impossible, she said. My son and son-in-law worked in a cloth factory but their employer stopped paying them during the lockdown.Initially, we got some help from NGOs etc, but now mostly it is about eating one day, and going hungry the next day," she said. Lalita added that she has also not been able to pay the monthly rent of Rs 2,500 for her house in the last few months, and fears eviction in the near future. Organised under various groups, the future stretches bleak for women like Lalita, one of the estimated eight lakh in the country With the end of the pandemic nowhere in sight, their livelihoods based on physical contact are in peril. On September 29, the Supreme Court directed all states to provide dry rations to identified by the National AIDS Control Organisation and legal service authorities without insisting on any proof of identity. The states were asked to file compliance reports within four weeks. The bench, comprising Justices L Nageswara Rao and Ajay Rastogi, said it would deal later with the aspect of whether financial assistance could be provided to them during the period of the pandemic. A week earlier, on September 22, the apex court had directed the Centre and state governments to help out the community. This was a few days after the Kolkata-based Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee approached the apex court for support in the face of the pandemic and the subsequent lockdown. But there are hurdles aplenty with many sex workers not being documented, said rights activist Meena Seshu. Sex workers move frequently to escape identification by family or for better earning opportunities. They also hide their identity due to the stigma attached to their work. This makes it very difficult to provide relief work though government channels that ask for ration cards and other identity and address proof, Seshu said. Recognition of sex workers as informal workers and their registration is important so they are able to get worker benefits. They should be provided with at least temporary documents that enable them to access welfare measures such as PDS and insurance benefits, Seshu, who founded SANGRAM, a Maharashtra-based NGO empowering sex workers, added. The loss of livelihood is also affecting the lives of the sex workers' families, especially their children, after schools started online classes. Most of these women can barely afford electricity in their homes They can't afford internet connectivity or the smartphones needed to attend classes," Bharati Dey, mentor at the Durbar Mahila Samanwaya Committee, told PTI. With the lockdown being lifted in phases across the country, professionals in most sectors have gradually started returning to work with proper social distancing measures in place. However, the situation remains unchanged for sex workers. According to Kusum, president of theAll India Network of Sex Workers(AINSW), a majority of the client base of sex workers comprises migrant labourers. We have made women in brothels across the country aware of the need for sanitisation, and servicing the clients with minimum physical contact, but there are barely any clients coming. Most of them left during the migrant exodus, and those who stayed back are too afraid of contracting the virus. Besides, with unsteady incomes at the moment, the labourers cannot really afford to spend money on sex workers, Kusum said. Going online has more problems than advantages, said Kiran Deshmukh, who has been workingout of a brothel in Sangli, Maharashtra, for 27 years. Initially, we thought like everything else, we too can go online. but we realised that it carried the risk of being recorded and our videos could be leaked on the internet. So we tried to complete the job over text chats.But the problem with doing the work online or through phone is that clients often refuse to pay, added Deshmukh, who is also president of the National Network of Sex Workers. The shame associated with the profession only adds to the burden for those who kept their work a secret. A 34-year-old working in Warangal, for instance, kept the fact that she was a sex worker hidden from her family for eight years. But now questions are being raised. My family knew I was working at some company But because I haven't been working since the lockdown got over and they see other people returning to work, the question have started. I am not sure how long I can keep up with this, she said. Her family of five mother, brother, two children and herself (her husband died a few years back) -- survives on a Rs 5,000 from her brother's handicap and her widow pension. Before the pandemic, she would make Rs 15,000 a month. Maybe the government can provide skill development programmes for us so we can have an alternative livelihood. I have lost complete hope of being able to return to work anytime soon, she said. While relief is essential, it is the recovery of their profession that worries the community the most. Unlike other professions where social distancing and sanitisation is enough to reopen offices, it will be more than just a while before sex workers can return to work. The government has been saying that we need to learn to live with COVID-19, but how? I am clueless about when we will be able to return to work. And, honestly, even I am scared. What if I catch the infection and then spread it to my family? said Lalita. (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.) Member of Parliament for Sekondi constituency, Andrew Egyapa Mercer has presented Ghanaians with the choice to make during the 2020 elections. There is left a few days for Ghana to hold her Presidential and Parliamentary elections. December 7, 2020 will be the day that Ghanaians will make a decision to either retain the incumbent government under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo or elect a new Head of State. Former President John Dramani Mahama has made a comeback into the Presidential race and seeking to be elected President again on the ticket of the largest opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). Other political parties to contest the elections are the Conventions People's Party (CPP) with Mr. Ivor Greenstreet being their flagbearer, the Progressive People's Party (PPP) which has elected a woman - Brigitte Dzogbenuku - as Presidential candidate among others. The parties are however yet to file their nominations with the Electoral Commission to be certified to contest this year's elections. Although there about six political parties that want to wrest power from the current adminisration, Ghanaians only have one choice to make out of the lot. Speaking on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo', Hon. Egyapa Mercer asked Ghanaians to choose the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), emphasizing the NPP is the right party for the nation. To him, there is no government committed to improving the living conditions of Ghanaians than the ruling party and that it will be a big mistake for the electorate to go for a different party, most particularly vote for former President John Mahama and the NDC. "We have a choice between going forward with a government that has demonstrated clearly its ability to manage the resources of this country," he stressed. The MP, directly addressing the opposition NDC, reminded Ghanaians of the poor governance of former President John Mahama, likening the Mahama regime to the biblical story of the slavery of the Israelites in Egypt. He explained that Ghanaians, like the Israelites, have been delivered from Egypt and heading to a land of good things with President Akufo-Addo being the custodian. He asked if Ghanaians would like to go back to Egypt or rather enjoy the land of honey that President Akufo-Addo is in charge. On the issue of poor governance of the NDC, Hon. Egyapa Mercer took Ghanaians down the memory lane about how the NDC flagbearer failed the citizenry abysmally when he was Head of State, citing incidents like the perennial power cuts that became the bane of the economy and other bad decisions that the former President took which compounded the afflictions of Ghanaians. "We're under an IMF programme that was necessitated by the mismanagement of the NDC," he added. Hon. Egyapa Mercer expressed shock at what he believes to be a twisting tongue of Mr. Mahama as the latter has been going about appealing to Ghanaians to vote for him to rescue them from the incumbent government. ''Rescue this country from where to where? Rescue it from free SHS, from Planting for Food and Jobs, from One District One Factory, formalization of the economy, digitizing Ghana, building a database through the Ghana card and digital address system?'' he questioned. He advised Ghanaians to vote massively for President Akufo-Addo to continue his good works. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Harare, Zimbabwe (PANA) - Zimbabwe's Finance minister Mthuli Ncube has dismissed high poverty levels prevailing in the country arguing that the distribution they make to vulnerable groups has instant impact and thus eliminates poverty in the moment Dr. Bob Wachter, chair of the Department of Medicine at UCSF, is a political junkie accustomed to evasion by elected officials. What Wachter cannot get accustomed to is evasion from physicians in white coats. So when he heard Dr. Sean Conley, President Trumps primary physician, admit to reflecting an upbeat attitude in excusing his own diversionary tactics in describing the presidents condition, Wachter felt compelled to offer rebuttal. As physicians, we are utterly dependent on trust, so to me if you are going to come out and give a press briefing, the imperative is to be truthful, Wachter said after watching Conleys update Sunday morning. He said the doctors remarks were disheartening, for not giving the public the real story. Wachter also sharply criticized President Trumps brief motorcade ride near the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center hospital on Sunday to greet supporters a trip that experts say endangered those in the car with him. Wachters first thought, he wrote on Twitter, was, This has got to be a joke. But nope, its real. So massively irresponsible. And another reason to question whether he is capable of making sound decisions at this time. Wachter, 63, a political science major at the University of Pennsylvania 11 years after Trump studied real estate there, has given running Twitter commentary on all things COVID since March. He has 137,000 followers, and his Twitter feed offers a cautionary tale of, among other things, what did the presidents doctor know and when did he know it, to paraphrase the late Sen. Howard Baker during Watergate. They have told us things that have proved to be false, Wachter said. When that has happened, it has always been in the direction of the truth being worse than what they told us. As evidence, Wachter noted the changing story as to the presidents ease of breathing, and the severity of his fever. In addition, Trump was said not to have required oxygen on a given day when in fact he had required oxygen at another time. Wachter also believes that the results of the presidents CAT scan were more troubling than has been revealed. Conley attributed most of this waffling and misinformation to a lapse in communication. I was trying to reflect the upbeat attitude that the team, the president, his course of illness has had, he said, according to reports. I didnt want to give any information that might steer the course of illness in another direction, and in doing so it came off that we were trying to hide something. ... The fact of the matter is hes doing very well. The Chronicle 2004 Representatives at Walter Reed did not immediately respond to a request for comment Sunday. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. Wachters deduction is that the president has a moderately serious case of COVID, including involvement of his lungs, which could easily worsen, given that Trump is 74 and overweight, factors that increase risk. His condition could require higher levels of oxygen and admission to intensive care. If the president is sent to the intensive care unit, he could be sedated and placed on a ventilator. At that point, Wachter said, Trump could no longer carry out his duties and power presumably would be passed to Vice President Mike Pence. Short of that, the combination of disease and steroids could confuse the president and make him unable to carry out those duties, Wachter said. Wachter understands Conleys optimism in his clinical relationship to Trump, because to some extent that is what all physicians do. In our patient care, we try to give our patients hope as long as the facts support it, he said. But once Conley strolls to the podium, he is no longer acting as an individual physician. He is also talking to the entire world about information that is important from a policy viewpoint. Sam Whiting is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: swhiting@sfchronicle.com twitter: @samwhitingsf President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump walk from the Marine One helicopter back to the White House after traveling to Fort McHenry in Baltimore for Memorial Day holiday commemorations from Washington on May 25, 2020. (Erin Scott/Reuters) Melania Trump Says Shes Feeling Good, Will Rest at Home First Lady Melania Trump said shes feeling good and will rest in the White House while her husband, President Donald Trump, has been staying at Walter Reed hospital after both tested positive for COVID-19 last week. My family is grateful for all of the prayers & support! I am feeling good & will continue to rest at home, Melania Trump wrote. Thank you to medical staff & caretakers everywhere, & my continued prayers for those who are ill or have a family member impacted by the virus. President Trump made a last-minute surprise visit to his supporters outside Walter Reed in Maryland, briefly leaving the hospital in a car to thank the supporters. He wore a face mask during the encounter on the evening of Oct. 4. I really appreciate all of the fans and supporters outside of the hospital. The fact is, they really love our Country and are seeing how we are MAKING IT GREATER THAN EVER BEFORE! he wrote on Twitter. My family is grateful for all of the prayers & support! I am feeling good & will continue to rest at home. Thank you to medical staff & caretakers everywhere, & my continued prayers for those who are ill or have a family member impacted by the virus. Melania Trump (@FLOTUS) October 5, 2020 Over the weekend, Melania Trumps spokeswoman, Stephanie Grisham, told news outlets that the first lady is doing well in her residence and stayed in contact with the president by phone. Their 14-year-old son, Barron, tested negative for the virus. All precautions are being taken to ensure hes kept safe and healthy, Grisham told news outlets about Barron. Meanwhile, doctors will decide on Oct. 5 whether to discharge Trump from the hospital, said chief of staff Mark Meadows Oct. 5. That determination has not been made yet. Obviously, he continued to improve overnight and his health continues to improve, Meadows said on Fox & Friends. The doctors will actually have an evaluation sometime late morning and then the president, in consultation with the doctors, will make a decision on whether to discharge him later today, he added. Were still optimistic that based on his unbelievable progress and how strong hes been in terms of his fight against this COVID-19 disease that he will be released, but that decision will not be made until later today. Trump, on Twitter, wrote about a dozen times on Monday morning that supporters should go out and vote for him and touted administration accomplishments. Emily In Paris starring Lily Collins debuted on Friday evening with much anticipation because the creator was Darren Star who worked on Sex And The City and Beverly Hills, 90210. American critics were kind to the Netflix show, calling it 'watchable.' But French critics did not react as well, claiming it was 'embarrassing' and 'deplorable' because of all the old cliches. New from Netflix: Emily In Paris starring Lily Collins debuted on Friday evening with much anticipation because the creator was Darren Star who worked on Sex And The City and Beverly Hills, 90210 C'est mal: American critics were kind to the Netflix show, calling it 'watchable.' But French critics did not react as well Emily In Paris works hard to sell on the charm of Collins as a budding marketing executive who lands in France not speaking a word of French but with plenty of enthusiasm. It is her job to guide a small French firm that is owned by her larger American firm back home. The old cliches pop their ugly heads right away as she is mesmerized with the baked goods and is treated rudely by co-workers Julien and Luke (Bruno Gouery and Samuel Arnold). Like that rat cartoon: Les Inrocks said Paris was not recognizable and was more like Ratatouille There is even a hardened older French woman, Sylvie (Philippine Leroy-Bealieu), who looks stylish and young for her age, but has zero tolerance for the fresh-faced, smiley young American. But the fashion stands out. Collins is seen in colorful coats and dresses with her hair perfectly styled. And the backdrops are picturesque even if some of the scenes look manipulated by CGI or, worse, filmed on a Hollywood back lot. AlloCine did not mince words as it said the series was 'embarrassing' adding it is a 'completely wrong image of Paris.' The site added, 'It's ridiculous, badly acted.' It was also shared: 'The French are described as arrogant, dirty, lazy, mean, bitter ... but luckily this young American arrives to explain to us how life works.' Devilish criticism: RTL shared: 'Rarely had we seen so many cliches on the French capital since the Parisian episodes of Gossip Girl or the end of the Devil wears Prada' Then the final insult: 'It's just deplorable, I wonder why French actors agreed to star in this series.' Les Inrocks said Paris was not recognizable and was more like Ratatouille. Sens Critique did not like the postcard imaged either: 'The writers may have hesitated for two or three minutes to stick a baguette under each Frenchman, or even a beret to clearly distinguish them, on the other hand, they all smoke cigarettes and flirt to death.' Rude! Charles Martin from Premiere said that wrote it was abhorrent that the French were described as tardy, lazy and sexist: 'No cliche is spared, not even the weakest' RTL shared: 'Rarely had we seen so many cliches on the French capital since the Parisian episodes of Gossip Girl or the end of the Devil wears Prada.' Charles Martin from Premiere said that wrote it was abhorrent that the French were described as tardy, lazy and sexist: 'No cliche is spared, not even the weakest' The American critics were kinder with The Hollywood Reporter calling it 'strikingly watchable.' But NPR dated to call it just 'fine': 'It's not that there aren't bright spots, but there's also just so much that feels uninspired.' Two Extinction Rebellion (XR) protesters today pleaded guilty to their part in a demonstration that disrupted the distribution of national newspapers. Eleanor McAree, 26, of Brentwood, was also in breach of a nine-month conditional discharge imposed last December for an Extinction Rebellion protest in London. The second defendant, Will Farbrother, 39, of Walthamstow, also pleaded guilty. McAree, who earns 41,000 a year as a project manager, was fined 500 for the Broxbourne obstruction, plus 105 costs, 50 victim surcharge and 150 for breaching the conditional discharge. Farbrother, who is giving up his 39,000 a year job as a civil servant to work with refugees in Athens, was of previous good character. He was given a six-month condition discharge and was ordered to pay 105 costs and a 22 victim surcharge. They were among 51 people charged with obstruction after more than 100 protesters targeted Newsprinters printing works at Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, and Knowsley, near Liverpool, on September 4. Roads were blocked and XR protesters chained themselves to structures in a demonstration that lasted from 10pm that Friday to 11am the next morning. It meant newspapers including the Daily Mail, The Times and the Daily Telegraph were not distributed on time, causing delays for readers to receive their copies. Some readers did not receive that day's copy of their newspaper. XR protesters staged a demonstration outside St Albans Magistrates' Court today where 24 people are due to appear accused of disrupting the distribution of national newspapers More than 100 protesters targeted Newsprinters printing works at Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, and Knowsley, near Liverpool, on September 4. Roads were blocked and XR protesters chained themselves to structures. The blockade disrupted the distribution of newspapers XR claimed that it was using the disruption to 'expose' newspapers' 'failure to report on the climate and ecological emergency'. They alleged: 'Coverage in many of the newspapers printed here is polluting national debate on climate change, immigration policy, the rights and treatment of minority groups, and on dozens of other issues.' However, critics including Prime Minister Boris Johnson called the blockade an attack on the free press. Today two defendants pleaded guilty to the charge of obstructing highway before District Judge Gillian Allison at St Albans Magistrates' Court. Opening the case, prosecutor Nigel Ogborne said: 'At 10pm on 4 September Hertfordshire police were called to Waltham Cross to a large number of people protesting outside the Newsprint Printworks. 'There were 50 to 60 individuals. A number were chained together in a plastic tube full of cement. Two others were on ropes. Two Luton vans were blocking the road in the form of an arrow.' The protesters would not move and the police called in officers with specialist cutting equipment. XR protesters pictured blocking access to Newsprinters printing plant at Broxbourne He said McAree had an arm in the tube and was lying under the axle of a van. Specialist officers had to cut her free at 8.44am. Mr Farbrother was in the tube of cement. Mr Ogborne said 133 staff were stuck in the building during the protest. Seventy-eight vehicles were hired to get them home. He said the distribution of three and a half million papers and magazines was disrupted, meaning 1,185 retailers did not get their supply of newspapers. News UK lost in the region of 1.2million, he said. Mr Ogborne added that a neighbourIng car retailer also lost 125,000 of business. McAree told the court a 'small group of millionaires controlled the press'. Laura O'Brien for Farbrother said he was giving up a well paid job to work with refugees. She said he was of previous good character. Meanwhile, nine more defendants pleaded not guilty today to obstructing the highway during the Extinction Rebellion protest. Tim Jones, 37, of London, Richard Felgate, 28, of Walthamstow, and Rosamund Frost, 29, of London will stand trial at Stevenage Magistrates' Court in May next year. Susan Hampton of Berkhamsted and Jennifer Parkhouse of Norwich will go on trial in June next year at Stevenage. Gillian Fletcher, 58, of Wokingham, Michelle MacDonagh, 33, of Chipstead, Coulsdon, Surrey, Tristain Strange, 38, of Swindon and Lucy Porter, 45, of Bradford also pleaded not guilty and will have their trial date fixed tomorrow. The Home Secretary has ordered a review of the law aimed at toughening sentences for the environmental extremists after they blockaded newspaper print works in a bid to stifle free speech. Options being considered include designating the group as an organised crime gang, which would leave militants open to the threat of up to five years in jail. In total, 77 people have been charged for the disruption at both printing sites. Today 24 people are due to appear before District Judge Gillian Allison at St Albans Magistrates' Court in batches of three. They are: 05.10.2020 LISTEN The Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama has taken a swipe at President Akufo-Addo for neglecting the cashew farmers after promising them higher prices for their produce. According to the former President, the living standards of cashew farmers is pathetic under the leadership of President Akufo-Addo indicating that less attention is given making them. He said this government was able to convince farmers to cultivate cashew on large quantities for better income to improve their living conditions but this has turned to be a scam as a result of very low profits. "Cashew farmers are really disappointed in your administration due to how you've neglected when it comes to good sales," he jabs the NPP led government. He said his administration will institute Cashew Board to make cashew farming more attractive when voted into power. He said this in Ahafo Region on his two-day visit to officially explain the party's 2020 manifesto to the chiefs and people and solicit for votes. He stated that the board will be in charge of all issues related to cashew farming to enhance the well - being of cashew farmers in the country just like how COCOBOD is instituted for cocoa farmers. In his explanation, the board which will consist of experts in the area of cashew production will draft policies to help boost the income earned by farmers who have decided to venture into cashew farming with huge sums of capital. "Per our (NDC) research cashew farmers are not having their returns as expected after investing hugely and this is unacceptable " he stated. The NDC Flagbearer disclosed to the chiefs and people that the introduction of the Cashew Board which will be of great benefit to the farmers can only be in existence if they vote him and the party's parliamentary candidates to power. The Chairman of the Tano North Cashew Farmers Association, Paul Kuma expressed gratitude to the NDC Flagbearer for having a permanent solution to their main challenge. Paul Kuma explained that cashew farmers are going through 'hell' when it comes to what they earn after production. He said the prices pegged against the crop (cashew) as compared to cocoa is far below belt and this has discouraged many of them from engaging in the trade. "How can a bag of cashew sells at Gh 200.00 whiles a bag of cocoa is pegged over Ghc 600.00, " he lamented. He explained that instituting the Cashew Board will be appreciated by the farmers because it is the issue on board discussed by many. They want to be treated fairly like cocoa farmers because of the presence of COCOBOD. OTTAWA - Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Monday that he tested negative for COVID-19 recently after he developed a tickle in his throat. It is the first time Trudeau has revealed he was ever tested for the illness. He said he was not tested last March when his wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, tested positive because public health advice at the time was that only people with symptoms should seek testing. Trudeau never showed symptoms at that time but isolated at his Rideau Cottage home for a month, during a time most Canadians were also in strict lockdowns. He initially told reporters Monday the test he did have occurred earlier in September but his office later clarified it happened Aug. 27. Trudeau said he had a throat tickle. I checked with my doctor and he recommended I get tested, he said. I got tested. It was negative and I went back to work a few days later when the doctor told me I was cleared to do it. A written statement from the Prime Ministers Office said Trudeaus results came back Aug. 28. Trudeaus spokesman said the prime minister did not get the test through a private option available to members of Parliament. Conservative leader Erin OToole turned to that option mid-September, when long lines at Ottawa testing sites left he and his family unable to get tested there. OToole tested positive, but has recovered and returned to work. His wife, Rebecca, and their two children also initially tested negative, but Rebecca later tested positive after exhibiting symptoms and going for a second test at an Ottawa public testing site. Shortly before he revealed he had been tested, Trudeau criticized reports of private tests in several provinces, saying he would be speaking to Health Minister Patty Hajdu to follow up on the issue later in the day. It is foundational to Canada that everyone has access to health care, Trudeau said when asked about those reports. This is something we all know is extremely important. I have seen these reports on private clinics and testing and I will be speaking with the health minister later today to ensure follow up on this. Hajdu said later Monday she has asked her department to look into the nature of the clinics providing tests, but generally no, we prefer that there isnt a two-tier public health system. In fact, the law says explicitly that should not exist and we have a number of measures under the Canada Health Act if thats happening, she said. As thousands of Canadians are waiting hours, if not days, to be swabbed and get their results, numerous reports have emerged about private options for COVID-19 testing, with patients who can afford it able to pay as much as $250 for tests in multiple cities across Canada. Ontario Power Generation has set up private testing for its employees and their families. The House of Commons has an on-call doctor who can arrange a private test for MPs if need be. Trudeau said in May that he will take an antibody test when one becomes widely available to see if it is possible he had an asymptomatic case of the illness. Some studies have suggested as many as 40 per cent of the people who are infected with COVID-19 never show any symptoms. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. Read more about: GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- Skilled heart surgeon, medical visionary, innovator and leader are just some of the words used to describe heart surgeon Dr. Luis Tomatis. But beyond his proficiency in the medical field, friends described him as selfless, humble and someone who could set people at ease. He was one of the finest people I have ever known in my life, said Kent Riddle, CEO at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and a good friend of Tomatis. Tomatis died Sept. 29 at the age of 92. As a cardiologist, he was credited with saving countless lives through heart surgery. Perhaps the most well-known patient was Amway co-founder Rich DeVos. Tomatis performed bypass surgery on him in 1983 and later, in 1997, helped arrange DeVos' heart transplant in London. A native of Argentina, Tomatis came to Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in 1965. He was instrumental in helping start the hospitals heart-lung program. He became the chief of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery and was considered by many to be a brilliant surgeon. He conducted important early research in cardiovascular surgery cost savings. In 1995, a year before he stepped away from his role as an active surgeon, he helped the other Amway co-founder, Jay Van Andel, in launching the $60 million Van Andel Institute. Tomatis also was involved in the 1996 formation of Spectrum Health, essentially a merger between Butterworth and Blodgett hospitals; bringing the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine to Grand Rapids; and the growth of Helen DeVos Childrens Hospital, according to hospital officials. In more recent years, he was director of medical affairs for RDV Corp., the DeVos family office. He was still working a full schedule up until his death, family members said. Riddle said Tomatis wanted to keep busy and believed it helped him stay healthy in body and mind. He never stopped. I know he still had things on his agenda he wanted to accomplish, he said. Those who knew Tomatis often admired his bedside manner, his way of talking and relating to people. It translated to encounters with people outside of the hospital. He had this unique ability to lift people up, Riddle said. He is inherently positive and hopeful; always spinning things to the positive." Tomatis two years ago published a book called Tea at Four," which he wrote at the urging of tea companions ranging from high school students to scientists. They implored him to write down the stories he had told them. Riddle was one of the people to visit Tomatis for tea, usually once every four to six weeks. He described him as the consummate gentleman." Since the pandemic began, Riddle had not seen Tomatis but was planning to get back together soon. Dick DeVos, on his Facebook page, wrote of his familys admiration and gratitude toward Tomatis in a post following the doctors death. He stood by my Dad, my Mom and my family every step of the way and were honored to have worked so closely with such a visionary spirit, DeVos wrote. He wrote that Tomatis has done much for the medical community. He wasnt just a doctor, he worked tirelessly to improve our communitys future by joining with others to lead a bold vision that resulted in the world-class heart and lung surgery program at Spectrum Health. In the comment section of the post, many people wrote how Tomatis had saved a loved ones life. One person wrote that Tomatis operated on his 7-year-old son many years ago after other professionals thought the boys condition was hopeless. The son is now 58 and healthy. The DeVos family also released a statement about Tomatis: Dr. Tomatis was a long-time friend, leading physician and trusted partner for our family and the Grand Rapids community. He will be missed by so many and certainly by all of us. He had an incredible impact on our family through his work as a surgeon at Spectrum Health, through his support of our Dad / Grandfather, and during his time as medical director for our family. Though his career is storied and full of great achievements, his friendship with Rich and Helen, and his ability to boldly drive Grand Rapids to a better, healthier future is what we will remember most. Our condolences to his family and friends as they mourn this tremendous loss. Family of Tomatis are planning to hold a celebration of life service at a later date. More from MLive Bob Woodrick, West Michigan leader in diversity education, dies Michigan AG will no longer enforce governors executive orders after court ruling . Bahrain has temporarily suspended travel to destinations which can adversely affect national efforts to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19), a senior official said. Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs at the Ministry of Telecommunications Mohammed Thamer Al-Kaabi said the temporary suspension had been recommended by the National Taskforce for Combating Covid-19 to protect citizens and residents health and safety, said a Bahrain News Agency report. The report did not mention the names of the destinations affected. High Street clothes giants Next, New Look, Matalan and Ted Baker are ditching alpaca fur after bosses were shown gruesome footage of the animals being shorn and sliced open. Animal rights campaign group PETA carried out an undercover investigation into Malkini, the world's biggest privately-owned alpaca farm, in Peru. Horrifying video shows alpacas crying, dripping with blood and vomit as they are roughly shorn with electric clippers. The rough shearing leaves the animals with deep wounds, which are then sewn up without adequate pain relief. River Island, Hunter and Barber have confirmed they have already banned the use of alpaca fibre in their collections. Animal rights campaign group PETA carried out an undercover investigation into Malkini, the world's biggest privately-owned alpaca farm, in Peru Next, New Look, Matalan and Ted Baker are ditching alpaca fur after bosses were shown gruesome footage of the animals being shorn and sliced open Next, New Look, Matalan and Ted Baker are ditching alpaca fur after bosses were shown gruesome footage of the animals being shorn and sliced open The brands join luxury fashion house Valentino as well as Marks & Spencer and Esprit, which have all previously committed to phasing out the use of the material. Meanwhile, Gap Inc and H&M Group have cut ties with Malkini's parent company, the Michell Group. PETA's undercover investigation took place at Malkini alpaca farm in Peru earlier this year. Its director of corporate projects Yvonne Taylor said: 'Consumers today want nothing to do with materials that animals were tormented for. 'We urge all retailers to stand up for vulnerable alpacas by following these companies' compassionate example and introducing a ban on this cruelly obtained material.' PETA notes that in addition to causing gentle alpacas immense suffering, the production of alpaca fibre is also terrible for the planet. Next, New Look, Matalan and Ted Baker are ditching alpaca fur after bosses were shown gruesome footage of the animals being shorn and sliced open PETA's Yvonne Taylor said: 'We urge all retailers to stand up for alpacas by following these companies' compassionate example and introducing a ban on this cruelly obtained material' The Higg Materials Sustainability Index ranked alpaca as the second most environmentally damaging material after silk. It is six times as harmful as polyester and more than four times as damaging as modal, viscose, rayon, lyocell, acrylic, and other vegan materials. In a statement, the Michell Group said: 'The shocking images transmitted in the video undoubtedly show excesses that we deeply deplore and affect us profoundly. 'They have clearly been edited and show unacceptable mistreatment practices carried out by negligent shearers. 'We want to reiterate our commitment to continue striving to improve our animal welfare, to work for a healthier environment, to provide the best products and services to all of you, to take care of our collaborators, and to contribute to our community, always in an honest and transparent manner.' By Express News Service BENGALURU: State Congress president DK Shivakumar on Thursday accused the ruling BJP leaders of putting pressure on the police to implicate Congress leaders in the DJ Halli violence and asked the police not to come under any pressure during the probe. Launching the partys Statewide protest against the government over its handling of the Covid-19 crisis, flood situation and amendments to the Land Reforms Act, Shivakumar said if the police officials come under any pressure and fail to conduct an impartial probe, the Congress will stage a protest against the police department. Congress is not responsible for the violence. Police failed to handle the situation and now let them take action against those responsible for the violence and not try to tarnish the partys image, he said. On the partys protest against the government, Shivakumar said the Congress party will continue to fight for people demanding good administration from the government. BJP hits back BJP state president Nalin Kumar Kateel on Thursday said the Congress and former CM Siddaramaiah do not have any concern for dalits. Till date, Siddaramaiah has not visited the residence of Akhanda Srinivasa Murthy, the dalit MLA whose house was gutted by the SDPI activists, he stated. Accusing the Congress of having an understanding with the SDPI, he said it was the Congress that helped the SDPI candidate win the BBMP elections. UPPER MERION With all the pandemic restrictions in place, not many police departments are engaging their communities with a National Night Out this year. However, the pandemic thats so drastically altered our lives for the last six months is precisely the reason the Upper Merion Township Police Department decided that continuing the tradition with its unique spin on National Night Out on Oct. 6 is just the morale booster that everyone needs right now. In lieu of a carnival-style gathering like last years highly successful National Night Out, Upper Merion Polices 2020 version will feature a Township Tour. In a year that was pretty trying on everybody we just wanted to make sure we had a way to bring the community together, said organizer Officer Joe Davies. So we wanted to figure out the best way to celebrate National Night Out and what it stands for in building stronger and better relationships with the community with the restrictions we have. We were kind of throwing around ideas of what we could do in small groups but see as much of the community as we could, so thats where we got the idea. National Night Out is normally held in August, but holding the event in October gave the department a chance to take on a Halloween-style theme by offering kids trick or treat bags filled with pre-packaged candy. With a bunch of vehicles, police cars, police officers EMS, a fire truck and ambulance, were going to six locations within our township, a couple of parks, business center, a couple of fire departments and a church, Davies said. We selected those six places because theyre kind of centralized in neighborhoods. We had already spoken to most of these people, some community organizations, business owners, and they are basically assisting us at these locations. When we stop at these locations its only about 25 minutes, with social distancing and following all the COVID guidelines, were able to get out there and give individually wrapped packages to each kid. Its not virtual we will be there but its spaced out, clean and safe. The Township Tour will kick off at 3:45 pm on Tuesday, Davies noted. Well drive through from each location to another, and if people cant make it to the nearest location where were gathering, then they will at least be able to come out as were driving by to wave and say hello, almost like you would see Santa Claus on the truck in the wintertime. This is the best way we thought we could get out to the community with the current situation. We didnt want to just not do anything. We were able to get some things from the National Night Out organization, and we purchased some things on our own. We just want the people to know were there, and if they have any concerns they can come out and meet us and discuss anything they would like. The locations and arrival times of the Township Tour are: 4 p.m. Angelos Pizza parking lot, 216 W. Beidler Road, King of Prussia; 4:35 p.m. Candlebrook Elementary School parking lot, 310 Prince Frederick St., King of Prussia; 5:10 p.m. Bob White Park parking lot, Bob White Road at Falcon Road, King of Prussia; 5:45 p.m. William Wall Sr. Park, Supplee Lane, King of Prussia; 6:20 p.m. Swedeland Fire Co. parking lot; 6:55 p.m. Sacred Heart Church parking lot, 120 Jefferson St., Bridgeport. Township Tour sponsors include Upper Merion Police Association Police and Fire Federal Credit Union; OKeeffe Orthodontics; Ferguson; Tony Capone; Angelos Pizza; Starbucks; Duck Donuts; Petruccis Phoenixville and Mission BBQ. The idea of a National Night Out was started by a network of law enforcement agencies and neighborhood watch groups back in 1984 as a way for folks to come out of their homes and into the streets to get to know their neighbors and take a stand against crime. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 16:06:56|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close JERUSALEM, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Israeli police said Monday a knife-wielding Palestinian was arrested after attempting to stab a soldier and policeman in the occupied West Bank. The incident took place at a junction in Gush Etzion, a settlement bloc south of Jerusalem. Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said in a statement that no injuries have been reported. The suspect approached Israeli security forces with a knife and was arrested, according to a separate police statement. Rosenfeld said that following the incident "heightened security continues in the area." Individual Palestinian attacks started in 2015 in the wake of the collapse of the U.S.-brokered peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians. Sporadic knife and car-ramming attacks have continued since then. Israel seized the West Bank in the 1967 Middle East war and has controlled it ever since, despite international criticism. Enditem The move may target those opposing reform, including that of the anti-corruption agencies. A group of members of European Parliament have addressed chair of Ukraine's ruling Servant of the People parliamentary faction David Arakhamia in an open letter, warning of their intention to consider lifting visa-free travel privileges off of a number of Ukrainian oligarchs and politicians. The joint address was signed by Viola von Cramon, Vice-Chair of the EP delegation to the Ukraine-EU Commission, Michael Gahler, EP rapporteur on Ukraine, and MEP Rasa Jukneviciene. In the letter, the MEPs explain to David Arakhamia, who had earlier publicly questioned EU's concerns over the anti-corruption reform issues, that the danger of Ukraine losing the visa-free regime and financial assistance is not a rumor. In fighting corruption, the Ukrainian government inspired hope in its early days, the letter says, adding: "President himself envisaged 'Ukraine of his dreams' where 'teachers receive real salaries and corrupt officials real jail time'. 17 months later, we cannot but see that the dream is showing cracks and many of those cracks are knee-deep in your party, Mr. Arakhamia." Read alsoZelensky calls on lawmakers to quickly approve anti-graft strategy until 2024"We cannot but see that some members of Sluha Narodu are spreading Kremlin-backed disinformation while orchestrating well-organized attacks on independent institutions like NBU [National Bank], NABU [National Anti-corruption Bureau], and SAP [Specialized Anti-corruption Prosecutor's Office]. The same members do not shy away from rubbing shoulders with oligarchs and untouchables or publicly advocating for cutting ties with the EU," MEPs stress. "[T]he praised reforms are backsliding, and the SAPO head is posed to be elected by a commission that lacks significant anti-corruption experience, reputation, high moral qualities, and public authority," they add. The signatories "cannot but see the general prosecutor downplaying the allegations of corrupted judges, a health minister allegedly attempting to kickback in the very midst of a pandemic, and the scandalous case of selling state posts for exuberant amounts of money collecting dust on the prosecutor's table." "All this endangers particularly the EUR1.2 Billion Macro-Financial Assistance not because we want it so, but because the mutual agreements that you and we concluded foresee it," the letter notes. The European Commission's 2020 report, MEPs say, "clearly stated that the Ukrainian side should 'ensure the independence, effectiveness and sustainability of the anti-corruption institutional framework and avoid politicisation of the work of all law enforcement agencies. In particular address persisting concerns with the independence and integrity of SAPO, including by ensuring a credible selection procedure for the next SAPO Head'." Read alsoTop contender for post of SAPO chief named mediaAlso, the Memorandum of Understanding concluded between the EU and Ukraine for a EUR 1.2 billion assistance also emphasizes the crucial need for "the independent and effective operation of the anti-corruption institutions and of the prosecution, including by: conducting merit-based competitions." With regard to the visa-free regime, "it is by no means the intention from the EU side to abolish this great achievement for all Ukrainian and the EU citizens still, we will reserve the right to impose the specific denial of such freedoms to individual oligarchs and policy-makers who abuse this right for their private illegal activities." At the same time, MEPs believe that "besides the dozens of bad apples, your party is also a platform for energetic, intelligent, and honest lawmakers who are committed to putting the countrys national interests above everything else and fighting for its European future." "Unfortunately, they are minority and thus not always heard," reads the letter. "We strongly believe that these progressive, reform-oriented lawmakers of Sluha Narodu [Servant of the People] should become the main buttress of your government in order to reinvigorate the zeal for reforms and put the country back on the democratization track. Only this way will Ukraine manage to retain the well-earned benefits of the EU-integration and also strive for much more. Through the Eastern Partnership's 'more for more' principle, it's you who defines how deep the integration will go." New SAPO chief selection row On August 21, Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova signed an order to dismiss Deputy Prosecutor General and SAPO chief Nazar Kholodnytsky, approving his resignation. On September 17, the Verkhovna Rada appointed parliamentary members to the commission to select the new SAPO chief: Olena Busol, Andriy Hudzhal, Oleksiy Drozd, Kateryna Koval, Bohdan Romaniuk, Viacheslav Navrotsky, and Yevhen Sobol. The European Parliament's Rapporteur for Ukraine, Michael Gahler, and Vice-Chair of Delegation to the EU-Ukraine Parliamentary Association Committee Viola von Cramon expressed concern over the Verkhovna Rada's move. "While international community is occupied with Belarus, Ukraine government is hastily pushing candidates lacking experience and integrity to select SAPO head. This will not fly. Ukraine's Government is jeopardizing visa-free with the EU and further trance of EUR1.5 billion assistance," Viola von Cramon-Taubadel wrote on Twitter on September 17, 2020. The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv also commented on the developments. "The U.S. and the EU take note of the Rada decision to appoint members to the commission to choose the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor. The commission needs to embark on a transparent process with candidates' integrity and merits at its core. Our further support will depend upon it," the Embassy wrote on Facebook on September 17. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said he fully supports the transparent process of selecting the chief of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO). Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine and Head of the EU Delegation Matti Maasikas says no irreparable actions have taken place so far in the situation regarding EU visa-free travel and the EU will be closely monitoring anti-corruption institutions in Ukraine. "The Your Start in the Arts grant is especially critical during the pandemic and against the broader backdrop of continued funding challenges for drama education in secondary schools, Richard Omar, president and artistic director at The New York Conservatory. The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts (NYCDA) today proudly announced the opening of its annual Your Start in the Arts grant program. Celebrating National Arts & Humanities month #NAHM, The New York Conservatorys Your Start in the Arts grant program honors and supports secondary high school educators in drama and theater who have inspired and students to follow their passion for the art of storytelling through acting. The New York Conservatory created the Your Start in the Arts grant to honor outstanding high school teachers and drama departments who are making a difference for students pursuing their passion for the performing arts. This is especially critical during the pandemic and against the broader backdrop of continued funding challenges for drama education in secondary schools, said Richard Omar, president and artistic director at The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts. Over the past two years we have witnessed, through the thousands of moving and inspiring stories, how deep this need is. We are especially proud to continue The New York Conservatorys grant funding this year and to continue our deep commitment to secondary education in the dramatic arts. Starting on October 1, 2020, high school students and alumni will be able to nominate their high school drama department to be considered for a $1,000 grant by completing the nomination form. The New York Conservatory will accept nominations until October 31, 2020 at 11:59pm EST. Once the nomination period closes, a panel of New York Conservatory actor-faculty will convene to read the submissions. The panel will vote for the ten most compelling cases for support. Grant winners will be notified by email and announced on December 15, 2020. To learn more about the Your Start in the Arts grant program, please visit https://www.nycda.edu/your-start-in-the-arts/. Full grant and participation rules can be found here https://www.nycda.edu/start-arts-grant-contest-full-rules/. Todays announcement follows The New York Conservatorys recent launch of its New Media for Actors degree. About The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts enables students to define their unique brand as an actor by discovering who they are as a person. We practice a personalized approach to training that places acting and storytelling at the core--offering immersive, disciplined, and focused professional training programs designed to give students the tools and techniques they need for successful careers in todays industry. Our living curriculum is writing itself every day, created and shaped by NYCDAs working actor instructors and student community to deliver a dynamic learning experience. The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts is an institutionally accredited member of the National Association of Schools of Theatre. NYCDAs Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS) degree programs in Film and Television Performance, and in Musical Theater Performance are registered by the New York State Board of Regents. Learn more about NYCDA at http://www.nycda.edu. Follow NYCDA https://www.facebook.com/ACT.NYCDA/ https://twitter.com/NYConservatory https://www.instagram.com/nyconservatory/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEyiGi3FVM056AEXUYcxG6A In the summer of 1988, Iran executed thousands of its opponents who were serving their sentences behind bars. At the time, Mir Hossein Mousavi was at the helm of the government as the Prime Minister, with Mousavi and his supporters insisting that he was unaware of the extrajudicial mass executions. Recently, Amnesty International (AI) presented documents that say otherwise. Amnesty International's findings on Mousavi and his knowledge of the 1988 massacre were followed by several activists' statement, accusing AI of "distorting" the facts and highlighting Mousavi's diminished role in the mass executions with "unknown motives." Mousavi, 78, is currently under house arrest for refusing defeat in the 2009 presidential election, which officially named the incumbent, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the winner. Responding to the activists' statement in Mousavi's defense, hundreds of the relatives of the 1988 massacre's victims have stepped forward, demanding justice. In a statement issued on Sunday, October 4, they explicitly called for Mousavi and other figures linked to the Islamic establishment to disclose what they know about the tragedy. Mousavi and many others have experienced the Islamic Republic's persecution and suffered from human rights violations in Iran, the victims' relatives said in their statement, before asking, "why don't they present all their information on the massacre to the society and bereaved families?" "Those directly responsible for the crime, as well as those who have remained silent either out of personal interests or distorting and covering-up the truth must be held accountable to the victims' families and society as a whole," they added, also asserting that remaining silent paves the way for more similar crimes. Additionally, the victims' relatives and survivors of the mass executions blasted Mousavi's supporters for "distorting the crimes' undeniable reality. Earlier, on September 22, 60 political activists issued a statement stressing that Mousavi was indeed unaware of the executions. While condemning the mass executions as "horrendous crime," the statement, signed by a few survivors of the 1988 massacre, claimed that Iran's section of Amnesty International's stance on the massacre hides the real perpetrators and their masters in the shadows. At the same time, AI elevates Mousavi's role, presenting him as the primary culprit, while no evidence has been discovered against him. Based on some estimates, in the summer of 1988, about 5,000 political prisoners belonging to the pro-Mojahedin Khalq Organization (MKO), as well as other leftist groups such as the Fadaiyan Khalq and the pro-Soviet Union Tudeh Party, were executed in Iranian prisons on direct orders of the Islamic Republic founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Several clerics carried out the octogenarian Ayatollah's order, later branded as the "Death Committee." On September 9, AI issued a public statement based on a Q&A about the possibility of Mousavi's awareness of the massacres in 1988, while he was serving as Prime Minister. In its statement, AI said it had "serious concerns" that Mousavi and his government were made aware of the first wave of killings in August 1988 and pursued an official strategy of "denial and distortion" in the aftermath, and then for years to come. According to international law, this could make them liable for prosecution. "In the aftermath of the prison massacres of 1988," Amnesty's new report states, "the failure of top government officials to investigate and reveal the truth did not just entrench impunity." "It also facilitated the ongoing commission of the crime of enforced disappearance against the families of those killed, which continues three decades later on a widespread and systematic basis and constitutes a crime against humanity." The statement came about three weeks after one of AI's researchers, Raha Bahraini, tweeted a picture of the organization's August 16, 1988 statement about the mass executions addressed to the then chairman of the Supreme Judicial Council, Ayatollah Abdol Karim Mousavi Ardabili, and the then Minister of Justice, Hassan Habibi. As Bahraini noted, "the policy of the Mousavi government's foreign ministry was a denial." Earlier, in the heat of the 2009 presidential election, responding to a question about the 1988 executions, Mousavi claimed that "I had no role in it, and not aware of it." The 1988 executions were ordered by the Islamic Republic's founder and first Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini and endorsed by the "death committee" comprised of clerics close to the octogenarian Ayatollah, including Judge Hossein Ali Nayeri, Prosecutor Morteza Eshraqi, the representative of the Ministry of Intelligence, Mostafa Pourmohammadi and current Judiciary Chief Ebrahim Raeesi. Iranian officials tried to keep the extent of the massacre secret for years, and succeeded, as both rival regime factions, the reformists and hardliners, were both also involved. The 1988 massacre was a dormant volcano until it erupted in an audio file in 2016, which recorded the members of the death committee meeting with Khomeini's deputy, Ayatollah Hossein Ali Montazeri. In the tape, Montazeri admonished the four committee members, appointed by Khomeini, that what they were doing was "the biggest crime committed by the Islamic Republic," which he said "would be condemned by the world." Sharia Judge Hossein Ali Nayeri, Tehran Prosecutor Morteza Eshraqi, Deputy prosecutor Ebrahim Raeisi (Raisi - currently Iran's Judiciary Chief), and Intelligence Ministry Representative Mostafa Pourmohammadi were supposed to convey Ayatollah Montazeri's warning to Ayatollah Khomeini. Instead, they gave his son Ahmad the message, who insisted that "the executions must go ahead" as planned, Montazeri's son, Ahmad, disclosed last December. In their statement, the survivors and victims' relatives also criticized the late Ayatollah Montazeri. "Despite his bold opposition to the killing of political prisoners, he (Montazeri) sufficed to write two confidential letters to Ruhollah Khomeini," the signatories claimed, adding, "Why did he not inform the society, especially the families of the political prisoners who came to his office at least twice in August and September (1988) to seek help. He should have informed them about the mass executions so that they might be able to prevent the massacre of their loved ones. And why did he not visit Khomeini directly and in-person in Tehran to protest and prevent the massacre from continuing?" In total, the signatories to the statement held almost all of the Islamic Republic officials, from its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to President Rouhani, Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, and even top officials of Tehran's Behesht-e Zahra cemetery, responsible for the 1988 massacre. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's current Supreme Leader who held the presidency in 1988, told the Resalat newspaper at the time that those executed "deserved" it. Wildfires in California have burned a record 4 million acres since the start of 2020, charring more land in the past nine months than during the previous three years combined. The results are devastating. The more than 8,200 blazes since January have killed 31 people and destroyed more than 8,400 homes and buildings, the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection said Sunday. The number of acres burned is more than double the previous record, set in 2018. The fires have been stoked by searing-hot weather, tinder-dry brush left after years of drought, powerful winds and other conditions that state officials say have been made worse by climate change. In August, a record-breaking heat wave triggered the state's first rotating power outages since the 2001 energy crisis. Smoke from the blazes has drifted as far as Europe. On Monday, firefighters continue to battle an inferno in Northern California's wine country. The Glass Fire has charred more than 64,000 acres and destroyed more than 1,200 homes and buildings. Four people have now been killed in a separate blaze, the Zogg Fire, burning further north in Shasta County, authorities said Thursday. It's charred more than 56,000 acres. Noah Berger/Associated Press In addition to devastating huge swaths of land, the blazes have fouled the state's air. Thick bands of smoke have been drifting over cities for weeks, darkening the sun and forcing people to stay indoors to avoid breathing unhealthy air. Firefighters will get a bit of a break from the weather on Monday as light winds replace the gusts that fanned flames in Northern California last week. Air quality remains poor across much of the state, as smoke and haze from wildfires linger. California's peak wildfire season traditionally runs from September through November. It has grown longer and less predictable in recent years, with blazes coming as late as December. Five of the six largest fires in California's history have occurred this year, including the August Complex in Tehama County, which is the biggest ever. The Glass Fire began Sept. 27 as strong, dry winds raked the hills above Napa Valley, near the town of Calistoga, whose residents were ordered to evacuate. But in recent days, calmer and cooler weather helped slow the fire's growth. By Sunday night, firefighters had contained 26% of the blaze. The blaze is raging northeast of Santa Rosa, an area devastated by the 2017 Tubbs Fire that was among the most destructive in California history. Properties damaged in the famed vineyard region included the Chateau Boswell estate, the Meadowood resort and the Castello di Amorosa winery. London: An outdated Excel spreadsheet has been blamed for a new coronavirus fiasco in England, where as many as 50,000 people who should have been self-isolating were not because a batch of positive cases were never passed on to contact tracers. Britain's second wave appeared to be flat-lining last week before it was revealed nearly 16,000 positive tests between September 25 and October 2 were never made public. The blunder meant only 7000 cases were reported on Friday when the true figure was close to 12,000. The missing cases were also never registered with the National Health Service tracing regime, meaning close contacts of the 16,000 infected people did not get notified that they might be at risk and should self-isolate for 14 days. Hong Kong: Private school grant set The Education Bureau today issued letters or circular memorandum to all kindergartens, private primary and secondary day schools as well as tutorial schools to inform them of the details of a one-off grant under the Anti-epidemic Fund. The bureau said following the approval of the third round of the fund by the Legislative Council Finance Committee on September 28, it has made immediate arrangements for progressively disbursing subsidies related to the areas of education. It said the one-off grant aims to alleviate the concerned schools financial hardship arising from the suspension of face-to-face teaching due to COVID-19. The grant ranging from $30,000 to $80,000 will be provided to each kindergarten and private primary and secondary day school. The additional expenditure is estimated to be $67.5 million, benefitting some 1,000 kindergartens and about 180 private primary and secondary day schools. Schools joining the kindergarten education scheme will receive a grant ranging from $30,000 to $80,000, depending on their types, ie half-day, whole-day and long whole-day and sizes, while non-scheme kindergartens will each receive a grant of $40,000. Private primary and secondary day schools, including English Schools Foundation, international, private independent and other private primary and secondary day schools offering a formal curriculum will each receive $40,000. Regarding tutorial schools, a one-off relief grant of $20,000 will be given to each school registered under the Education Ordinance on or before the resumption of face-to-face classes by phases on September 23 and in operation on the circular memorandum's date of issuance. The additional expenditure is estimated to be $60 million, benefitting some 3,000 tutorial schools. Depending on the disbursement arrangements for respective grants, the bureau will disburse the subsidy to schools about one month after obtaining the funding from the fund or in about one month upon receipt of fully completed application forms or payees' information. This story has been published on: 2020-10-05. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Tesla Inc. vehicle deliveries hit a new record in the most recent quarter, accelerating the Silicon Valley car makers recovery after sales slowed during the height of the pandemic. The Palo Alto, Calif.-based company on Friday said it sold 139,300 vehicles in the quarter ended Sept. 30, slightly ahead of the 137,000 deliveries analysts surveyed by FactSet expected and 44% above the prior-year figure. The figure topped the previous high of 112,000 vehicle handovers Tesla achieved in the final quarter of 2019, the last not impacted by the pandemic. Tesla has delivered slightly more than 318,000 vehicles over the first nine months of this year despite a temporary shutdown of its lone U.S. car plant in Fremont, Calif., as local health officials tried to halt the spread of the coronavirus. The company in January said it aimed to deliver more than 500,000 vehicles in 2020, an increase of at least 36% from last years total. Tesla shares retreated more than 4% in premarket trading Friday. Delivery figures, though ahead of the latest estimates, fell short of Wall Streets lofty earlier estimates that were pared back this week. Wall Street expects Tesla later this month to report a record quarterly profit. The result would extend the companys longest streak in the black to five consecutive quarters and keep the company on pace for 2020 to be its first with a full-year profit. The results have fueled investor excitement in Teslaits shares have more than quintupled this yearand in electric-vehicles broadly. Deliveries in the September quarter were dominated by the Model 3 sedan and the Model Y sport-utility vehicle that first started going to customers in March. Tesla sold a combined 124,100 of those models. The company also delivered a combined 15,200 of the higher-priced Model S and Model X vehicles. The car maker also has benefited from demand in China, where it inaugurated a production facility late last year and where it has seen strong demand for the Model 3. Teslas report Friday showed further signs it has moved past the effects of the pandemic. Production in the past three months rebounded to 145,036 vehicles. Output fell to 82,272 vehicles in the second quarter, the period covering most of the U.S. factory closure, from 102,672 vehicles in the first three months of this year. Mr. Musk last month said he expects Tesla to build 20 million cars annually within the decade, or almost twice as many as Volkswagen AG produced last year as the worlds bestselling individual car company. To help deliver that growth, Tesla is expanding. The company is building a new car plant outside Berlin and this year said it would build a plant near Austin, Tex., its second U.S. vehicle plant. Tesla last month said it planned to raise up to $5 billion (U.S.) through occasional stock sales, which would help finance growth plans. But the lofty targets come with obstacles. Traditional car makers that were slow to embrace electric vehicles are rapidly introducing new models. Volkswagen last month announced plans for an all-electric SUV and Ford Motor Co., General Motors Co. and others are introducing models that could steal sales from Tesla. Demand is likely to get a boost from Californias recently proposed ban on the sale of gas and diesel-powered cars by 2035. Mr. Musk has said efforts to scale up also could be hampered by limited battery production capacity. Tesla, he said, would build more batteries itself and increase purchases from suppliers to support its plans. At a battery-focused event last month, he also said Tesla plans to offer a $25,000 car within a few years that could lure prospective buyers that havent been able to afford Teslas pricier models. Read more about: Life under quarantine in the coronavirus era has given many people a commodity that was previously hard to come by: time. Some have used that time to read books or play music, while others are figuring out how to bake the perfect loaf of sourdough. For 29-year-old Demi Skipper, inspiration came by way of a TED Talk and a red paper clip. Kyle MacDonald (Courtesy Kyle MacDonald) The TEDxVienna Talk speaker in question was Kyle MacDonald, a Canadian blogger who is perhaps better known as the "One Red Paperclip" guy. About 15 years ago, he had the idea, starting with one red paper clip, to trade his way up to owning a house. On July 12, 2005, MacDonald, then 25 years old, embarked on the mission. In one year and a mere 14 trades, he had a farmhouse in Kipling, Saskatchewan. Now, Skipper who works full time for the restaurant app OpenTable while also running a wedding dress rental company is bringing the trade up challenge to the TikTok generation. After 21 trades since May 18, starting with a bobby pin, she currently has a Peloton exercise bike and 4.5 million followers on her TikTok account, @TradeMeProject, to show for it. The 'old woman on TikTok' The rules to the Trade Me Project are simple: Skipper must find people that are interested in trading; she cannot trade with anyone she knows, and the trades cannot include money. Demi Skipper, 29, holds up a recent trade. In exchange for a 2006 Mini Cooper convertible, Skipper received a diamond-and-sapphire necklace valued at $19,500. Unfortunately, 10 different jewelers inspected the necklace and valued it at only $2,500. Skipper was able to trade it for a Peloton exercise bike and is now trying to get the attention of Paris Hilton. This would mark her first celebrity trade. (Courtesy Demi Skipper) I think I'm just honestly mind-blown at how many people are resonating with this and how many people are so interested in following it like a TV series almost, Skipper, who lives in San Francisco, said. And with every trade, I surprise myself because I'm like, Well this is the best trade. And then the next one comes and I'm like, No, this one by far. And it just gets wilder and wilder. Nearing 30, Skipper called herself the old woman on Tiktok after learning that the majority of her viewers are 11- to 15-year-olds. She recently surprised a sixth grade class taught by her friend via Zoom and was met with screams of, Oh, my God, the Trade Me Project lady is in my class! They believed she was the first person to take on this challenge. Story continues That 'One Red Paperclip' guy Trailblazer MacDonald, now 40, had to make do with the internet of his time, when social media was in its infancy. His tools of choice? Email and Craigslist. Even phone books were part of his arsenal. It was like sticking my thumb out hitchhiking," MacDonald who today does public speaking and operates an online art merchandising website told TODAY by phone about the experience. I didn't know what was going to happen. Every morning I'd wake up to new adventures and opportunities every day. One Red Paperclip guy with actor Corbin Bernsen, trading a KISS snow globe (Courtesy Kyle MacDonald) The initial trade that set everything into motion was for a fish-shaped pen. From there, some of MacDonalds most notable trades included a panel truck, spending half a day with rock legend Alice Cooper, a recording contract and a Kiss snow globe that he famously traded to L.A. Law actor Corbin Bernsen. It was the year 2006 that Time magazine Person of the Year was a picture of a screen that said the Time Person of the Year is you, MacDonald said. I think it really hit that zeitgeist of just how the internet was going to change things. And this paper clip guy was one example. Tricks of the trade When Skipper started the project, she planned to use TikTok to document each of the trades as a way to look back on her journey not as a path to internet stardom. But once she posted her first video to the popular social media app on May 18, Skipper woke up an overnight sensation. Within a week, her TikTok account had over a million followers. Though shes now deep into her journey, Skipper gets asked the most about how her first trade went down, when she traded away a bobby pin for a pair of unused earrings. Skipper put advertisements on eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist that read, Hi! Really random, but Im looking to trade a bobby pin. Watch the video if you want more info. But would love do my first trade with any of you! It was enough to persuade 30-year-old Atlanta native Abbie Collie, who works in pharmaceutical law. I was quarantine cleaning and making a Goodwill donation pile and had a new pair of earrings, she told TODAY in an email. I thought that earrings would be a good jump start for her to make her next trade. I commented on her post hoping that I would be the first, and I was! Skipper sent the bobby pin to Abbie Collie along with this note. (Courtesy Abbie Collie) That was all Skipper needed to set her project into motion. Since then, she has made 20 other trades that have largely consisted of tech products. Shortly after receiving the earrings, Skipper was able to trade them for a set of four margarita glasses, followed by a Bissell vacuum cleaner and then a snowboard. By trade 11, Skipper had Off-White Nike Blazer sneakers valued at $850. What's funny is, like, I've always sort of been like a side hustler. None of my friends are really surprised," Skipper said. The good, the bad and the unknown But it hasnt all been smooth sailing. For Skipper's 15th exchange, she traded for a car that was in less-than-stellar shape. A family pulled up in their 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan after driving all night from Minnesota to California in exchange for Skippers iPhone 11 Pro Max. But the minivan was now leaking a red fluid and wouldnt start. On top of that, Skipper did not have a parking permit, which meant the city would tow it if she could not find a trade within three days. Skipper sits on top of the minivan she received after trading away an iPhone 11 Pro Max. When she discovered it would not start, she was willing to trade for anything. (Courtesy Demi Skipper) I really was thinking about scrap metal at that point, Skipper said. But luckily I found a guy who was best friends with a mechanic; he FaceTimed his mechanic friend. He was like, Oh yeah, I can fix this; no big deal. And we traded the car. Without him, I don't know what I would have done. Skipper said she sifts through thousands of trade offers a day and spends hours researching the value of products. Since there are many people that send fake offers via email, direct messages and in many of the thousands of Facebook groups she has joined, she will often require them to send pictures of the product. Once Skipper determines a product is legitimate, she will FaceTime with the individual for further verification. Most recently, Skipper traded for what she thought was a $19,500 diamond and sapphire necklace, only to be told by 10 separate jewelers that the real value was closer to $2,500. Although she traded it for a Peloton exercise bike, Skipper was disappointed in the necklace's drastic value drop. In one of her most niche trades, Skipper received an electric bike food cart. To test it out, she rode it near the beach and those familiar with her account flocked to her with excitement. Skipper told TODAY that the man behind the camera in all of her videos is her husband, Bobby Sudekum. She added that while he tries to help find viable trades, he has yet to land any. (Courtesy Demi Skipper) In 2005, MacDonald, too, encountered false inquiries. But rather than make his email less accessible on his website, he posted his personal phone number and soon found that only serious individuals dialed him. He recommended that Skipper try the same tactic. Sifting through the thousands of offers is a time-consuming venture, but knowing the best objects to trade for versus the ones that appeal only to a niche market is a vital distinction. In the latter category, Skipper says she turned down offers for a commercial-sized soft-serve ice cream maker, and oddly enough, family pets. Someone even offered a plane ticket across the world, but Skipper had to turn it down amid travel concerns due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus. MacDonald said that once items reached a certain value, they were harder to trade than concerts or a recording contract. He added that he does not envy the difficulties Skipper must navigate surrounding the pandemic. Once it is safe, both said they would be open to sitting down and sharing their stories. The challenge lives on One of the highlights of the project for Skipper has been seeing other people try to trade up. She noted that one girl is trading up for her college tuition, while multiple users were in a race to acquire an ice cream truck. In fact, the trend has gone global, reaching Indonesia, South Africa and the U.K., according to Skipper. A quick search for the #tradechallenge hashtag yields hundreds of videos on TikTok with people giving it a go. Although Skipper has already gone beyond the number it took MacDonald to complete the challenge, she is hopeful she can get a house in less than a year. Skipper and Collie, the woman with whom she made her first trade, have already spoken about their plan. We joke that when we get the house, we'll both be there and frame it and hang it up in the house, Skipper said. MacDonald stands atop a car during his housewarming party in Kipling, Saskatchewan, in 2006. Hundreds of people attended. (Courtesy Kyle MacDonald) Already, Skipper said the journey has been much more than she ever could have imagined and has determined when not if she gets a house, she will donate it to a follower in need. MacDonald famously donated the Kipling house after living there with the woman who is now his wife, Dominique, for a few years. Today, the house is aptly named the Paperclip Cottage Cafe. MacDonald said he looks back fondly at the entire experience and especially treasures the housewarming party that brought hundreds of people to a town that today only has 1,074 residents, according to the Kipling website. Trading away that paper clip was the best thing I ever did, MacDonald said. The whole metaphor is every long journey starts with a first step. So, trade away your paper clip, and if it doesn't work out, it's just a paper clip. LONDON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- RB invests in Your.MD's mission to create a new 'pre-primary care' global market that brings free, medically-approved self-care to people before they need to contact their GP Your.MD, creators of the medical-grade, augmented intelligence self-care app Healthily , to accelerate its current digital self-care platform with a series of clinically-validated 'health hubs' Power trio from tech giants Uber and PayPal recruited to drive growth Leading global consumer health, hygiene and nutrition company Reckitt Benckiser (RB) has invested additional funds into pre-primary care hub, Your.MD, as the global self-care platform reports exponential user growth of 350% over the last 12 months. The investment follows an initial round of funding led by RB and existing shareholders in 2019. As part of the now-completed Series A funding round, the investment will enable the brand to expand its reach across markets, including the UK, India and the US. Founded in 2015, Your.MD, was the first company to combine augmented intelligence with medically validated information, giving individuals personalised and relevant health tools and support all in one place to enable them to self-care when appropriate. "After an incredible year of growth, RB is delighted to strengthen our partnership with Your.MD to deliver better self-care access and tools for consumers all over the world. We are excited to see the global expansion of the Healthily app, which will create immersive, digital-first experiences for consumers," said Arjun Purkayastha, Senior Vice President eRB at RB. In the last year, Your.MD has seen significant traction after launching its COVID-19 Symptom Mapper , that helps people compare their symptoms against global norms gathering valuable data to help researchers including Imperial College London and NHSx understand the virus. In September, Healthily introduced its first co-branded app in India , together with Dettol, one of the leading global brands in health and hygiene. Healthily with Dettol is a medically-validated, safe, immersive experience that gives consumers the resources to take control of their health. "We're delighted that our platform is growing from strength to strength and continues to attract best-in-class international partners that share our vision. Our relentless work toward democratising access to personalised healthcare information is progressing at pace and thanks to our strategic partnership with RB we are one step closer to reaching this ambitious, yet achievable, goal," said CEO, Matteo Berlucchi. Driving this work, is newly-appointed Chief Operating Officer, Jonathon Carr-Brown, former MD of NHS Choices, CEO Matteo Berlucchi and one of the UK's most senior GPs, Professor Maureen Baker, Your.MD Chief Medical Officer. Three new senior hires are Geraldine Butler-Wright, (PayPal, Imperial College) as Chief People & Culture Officer, David Gross (Canon) as Chief Digital Officer and rising star Dan Kaziyev, previously at Uber, who takes on the role of Head of Data and Insights. SOURCE Your.MD Related Links https://www.your.md/ Morrison & Foerster, a leading global law firm, is pleased to announce that Theresa Foudy has joined the firm as a partner in its Business Restructuring + Insolvency Group (BRIG) in New York. Recognized as one of the leading bankruptcy litigators in the United States, Ms. Foudys arrival further reinforces the firms market-leading BRIG practice and further expands the firms premier litigation capabilities. Further, the addition of Ms. Foudy underscores the continued expansion of Morrison & Foersters New York office. She is the sixth partner to join the office since the start of the year, following in the footsteps of David Fertig, Haima Marlier, Mitchell Presser, Leonora Shalet, and Omar Pringle. Over her more than 25-year career, Ms. Foudy has worked on many of the United States largest and most complex bankruptcy cases, including serving as lead trial counsel in several of the most prominent bankruptcy matters of the last decade. Ms. Foudy has represented Chapter 11 debtors, creditors committees, indenture trustees, secured and unsecured creditors, private equity sponsors, independent directors, and distressed investors through all stages of bankruptcy litigation. She has advised clients on all types of bankruptcy-related disputes, including suits by or against a bankrupt company, investigations into what led to a bankruptcy filing, avoidance actions, and litigation over whether a plan of reorganization should be confirmed. We are thrilled to welcome Theresa to our BRIG practice in New York, said Jennifer Marines, global co-chair of Morrison & Foersters Business Restructuring + Insolvency Group. Theresa is a well-known and highly accomplished restructuring lawyer who has significant experience with bankruptcy courts across the U.S. Her deep understanding of what motivates players in restructurings, along with her impressive litigation skills, will greatly benefit our clients. Not only has Theresa successfully litigated some of the most notable and high-stakes bankruptcy matters in recent history, she is also a fantastic team player, added BRIG global co-chair Lorenzo Marinuzzi. There is no doubt she will be a great fit for our collaborative culture. Ms. Foudys representative high-profile matters include: serving as lead trial counsel for defendants (wholly owned subsidiaries of a multinational commodity trading and mining company) in a four-day bench trial, over the rejection of a lease to a power plant in an adversary proceeding before the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas; serving as lead trial counsel for defendant directors in a 15-day bench trial on a creditors committees motion for standing to assert claims for breach of fiduciary duty and aiding and abetting breach of fiduciary duty in connection with the directors approval of a merger transaction and, after prevailing in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, handling the successful defense of subsequent appeals by the creditors committee to the District Court and U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit; and providing conflicts counsel for a plaintiff Chapter 11 debtor, including participating in all aspects of litigation and a trial of adversary proceeding against junior secured noteholders, arguing motion to dismiss counterclaims, and cross-examining a witness at trial in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. Ive had the opportunity to work alongside several MoFo lawyers in previous bankruptcy matters where our paths have crossed, and I have witnessed firsthand how talented, high performing, and committed this team is, said Ms. Foudy. I could not be more excited to join a premier firm like Morrison & Foerster and work with my new colleagues to help our clients tackle their most sophisticated bankruptcy-related matters. Over the span of her 25-year career, Ms. Foudy has been widely recognized for her exceptional bankruptcy litigation skills, including in The Legal 500 and Super Lawyers. Ms. Foudy earned her J.D. from New York University School of Law and her B.A. from Binghamton University. She is admitted to practice in New York and is a member of the New York State Bar Association and the New York State Womens Bar Association. ABOUT MOFO We are Morrison & Foerster a global firm of exceptional credentials. Our clients include some of the largest financial institutions, investment banks, Fortune 100, and technology and life sciences companies. The Financial Times has named the firm to its lists of most innovative law firms in North America every year that it has published its Innovative Lawyers Reports in the region. In the past few years, Chambers USA has honored MoFos Privacy and Data Security, Bankruptcy, and IP teams with Firm of the Year awards, the Corporate/M&A team with a client service award, and the firm as a whole as Global USA Firm of the Year. Our lawyers are committed to achieving innovative and business-minded results for our clients, while preserving the differences that make us stronger. The firm also has a long history of commitment to the community through providing pro bono legal services, including litigating for civil rights and civil liberties, improving public education for poor children, advocating for veterans, promoting international human rights, winning asylum for the persecuted, and safeguarding the environment. Physicians and scientists have long searched the natural world for chemicals that can improve human health. However, evolutionary selection optimized natural chemicals to benefit their host, not for safety or efficacy in humans. This mismatch inspired chemists at the University of Tokyo to alter useful natural products for better, safer use in people. Their approach has transformed one of the world's oldest antibiotics into versions that - in preliminary lab tests - appear to be safer, stronger drugs. Gramicidin A was originally discovered in soil bacteria and became the first commercially manufactured antibiotic in the early 1940s. It continues to be prescribed by doctors today as a topical cream or drops for some skin, eye and throat infections, but it cannot be used as a pill or injection. Gramicidin A kills bacteria by punching itself through the cell membrane, essentially allowing the cell to leak out and the world to leak in through nano-sized tunnels called ion channels. These unregulated ion channels wreak the same havoc on human cells when gramicidin A is used inside the body. Scientists have long been fascinated by the ion channel function of gramicidin A because ion channels are nearly universal among living things. Human ion channels are involved in everything from brain function to blood pressure. About 350 artificial analogs of gramicidin A have been developed over the past 80 years, all of which have properties similar to the original and thus cannot be used in humans. Now, a team from the University of Tokyo Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences has designed and analyzed over 4,000 gramicidin A artificial analogs. "Usually, natural product synthesis is a very difficult, complicated task. There are many steps to make these large molecules and at the end, synthetic yields are very low, so synthetic approaches like the one bead-one compound synthesis we used are still uncommon with natural products," said Assistant Professor Hiroaki Itoh, one of the authors of the research publication in Nature Communications. Gramicidin A is a spiral of 15 amino acids, the building blocks of peptides, which are short proteins. Researchers strategically selected six of those amino acids that could be altered without losing essential aspects of gramicidin A's normal structure. Each of those six amino acids could be exchanged with four different amino acids to change how the peptide bonds together, leading to a total of 4,096 variations. The one-bead-one-compound synthesis technique begins with small glass beads serving as the foundation to attach the first amino acid. Researchers build the peptide by attaching more amino acids one at a time. Whenever they reach the point of an amino acid variation, they split the beads into equal portions corresponding to the different amino acids, then remix the beads and continue building the peptide. After completing their synthesis, researchers placed each bead into its own container and analyzed the function of their new versions of gramicidin A. Actually, this was a fully manual operation. It was a struggle for the student in charge of the project, but she is a very hard worker and made a great accomplishment with this research. Considering the normal timeline of natural product chemistry, this was quick." Hiroaki Itoh, Assistant Professor, University of Tokyo The student, Yuri Takada, who subsequently received her doctoral degree, is the first author of the research paper and is now working as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Cambridge in the U.K. Researchers began testing their new versions of gramicidin A for activity against the common bacterial infection streptococcus. The strongest performers were then assessed for their potential ability to not indiscriminately kill human cells by testing their reactions with rabbit blood cells and mouse leukemia cells. These tests identified about 10 gramicidin A variations as promising future antibacterial drugs. The results also allowed researchers to identify how specific structural changes to the amino acids affect the overall function of the molecule. This foundational structure-function information is crucial for understanding why and how pharmaceuticals work. Researchers also measured the ion channel-forming ability of the best performing new versions of gramicidin A. Although they had reduced toxicity to mammalian cells, their ion channel-forming ability remained strong. These subtle modifications to a few amino acids could transform gramicidin A's ion channel-forming function from indiscriminate to bacteria specific. "Most important is that this strategy can be used for other types of natural products and other ion channel-forming compounds. It has long been believed to be very difficult to realize species-selective ion channel-forming activity, but our study showed gramicidin A can have very bacteria-selective activity. I believe this thought can change the standard of ion channel-forming natural products," said Itoh. A crowded platform at Earlsfield train station, back on late 2018 - Kirsty O'Connor/PA Wire The Government should admit that social distancing on trains is not possible, the chairman of the all-party transport select committee has urged, as he warned overcrowding was sparking fear among commuters. Huw Merriman argued that ministers could avoid "panic" on the rail network by making travellers aware of the measures they could take to lower the risk of catching coronavirus during busy times. Speaking at a fringe event at the Conservative Party conference, Mr Merriman said that doing so would help improve confidence that its safe, rather than the current situation whereby if people are crammed on a train, and all of a sudden there's big panic because the rules have been breached. He told the Railway Industry Association session: On public transport you cannot socially distance and run as a public transport system that is viable in terms of the economy. I think we're better off addressing that fact, and then actually taking mitigations in other areas. He said ministers should instead raise awareness of the benefits of mask wearing and hand sanitizing and encourage people to use their own common sense. Mr Merriman also questioned whether the Government has the bandwidth to deliver its ambitious infrastructure spending on HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail. The Bexhill and Battle MP suggested that ministers were not being strategic with their commitment to large infrastructure projects and said there was as yet no complete strategy to integrate the two rail lines. Mr Merriman said: Of course HS2 will deliver parts of the capability for Northern Powerhouse rail, but it's not due to complete until almost 2040. So, how do we speed those other parts up? I haven't seen a complete strategy that really sort of puts the jigsaw together. During the same event, rail minister Chris Heaton-Harris admitted that there is pressure on the Government to abandon expensive infrastructure projects such as HS2. Story continues There are lots of calls on the Treasury to spend its money elsewhere but we are very, very fortunate to have a Prime Minister whos devoted to his levelling up agenda, he said. Mr Heaton-Harries also confirmed that the current rail franchising system would soon be ending, with the Government shifting to a different model based on the Williams Rail Review. Mr Heaton-Harris said that the Department for Transport would be adopting a huge number of the reforms suggested by the delayed review, which was originally slated to be released by Easter. Mr Williams, the former chief executive of British Airways, will now rejuvenate his ideas in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, the minister said. In the meantime, emergency recovery contracts will keep the railways running for up to 18 months during the pandemic while the industry moves towards a long-term overhaul. Mr Merriman said the Government has provided "very little detail" in what the new franchise system would look like. "I don't believe anyone's really designed what the next contract and model will be," he said. BELGRADE, Serbia - Serbias president on Monday proposed that current Prime Minister Ana Brnabic stay in office, paving the way for the formation of a new government more than three months after a parliamentary election. Autocratic leader Aleksandar Vucic announced his choice at a news conference that followed a meeting of his populist Serbian Progressive Party, which won an overwhelming majority in the June 21 vote. I hold Ana Brnabic in very high regard, he said. The June balloting in Serbia was the first held in Europe after the coronavirus outbreak. Serbias authorities have faced criticism for abolishing most anti-virus measures before the vote, which led to a surge in new infections. Many Serbian opposition groups boycotted the June vote, saying that it wasnt free and fair because of the ruling partys tight grip on mainstream media and pressure on dissent. Two decades ago, Serbia ousted in a popular uprising then-autocratic leader Slobodan Milosevic after years of wars and international sanctions. Critics of Vucic, a former Milosevic-era government minister, accuse him of clamping down on hard-won democratic freedoms. He has denied this. Brnabic became Serbias first female and openly gay prime minister in 2017, after Vucic resigned the post in order to take part in a presidential election. Brnabics government formally seeks European Union membership while also maintaining close ties with Russia and China. It wasnt immediately clear when Serbias lawmakers will vote to confirm Brnabic and her government. She has yet to reveal the composition of the future Cabinet. Skip Dickstein/Times Union ALBANY A 22-year-old man checked into Albany Medical Center Hospital with a bullet wound to his hip Saturday night after being shot at Central and Washington avenues, according to Albany police. The shooting happened on Saturday evening between 10 and 11 p.m. The assailant was unknown. The injured man said he got in a fight with someone near the intersection of Central and Washington avenues, and then the other combatant pulled a handgun and shot him in the hip a single time. The injury to the man is non-life threatening, police said. Police were notified about the shooting by Albany Med on Sunday morning. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 13:24:39|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close NEW YORK, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The crash of a single engine seaplane in New York City on Sunday afternoon has left one dead and two seriously injured, according to the latest release by the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). The pilot and one of the passengers, both in critical condition, are now hospitalized, while another passenger died of the accident, the FDNY said. The plane crashed into a concrete pier on the Long Island Sound in Queens of New York City at around 3 p.m. local time (1900 GMT) while moving fast along the water, it said. Remaining fuel of the plane has been offloaded and an investigation would be carried out on what caused the accident, it added. Enditem US President Donald Trump, who was tested coronavirus COVID-19 positive a few days ago, on Sunday (October 4) briefly left the hospital in a motorcade to greet his supporters who were standing outside the hospital. Earlier, President Trump had tweeted that he would make a surprise visit. Trump was spotted wearing a mask and he waved from the back seat of a black SUV to his supporters who were standing in front of the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where Trump was admitted after testing coronavairus positive. Prssident Trump's supporters waved Trump 2020 flags and chanted "USA! USA!" #WATCH | US: President Donald Trump waves at supporters from his car outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center where he is being treated for COVID-19. pic.twitter.com/p5Fp48C9RB ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2020 Donald Trump declared, "I get it," in a message to the nation before briefly leaving the hospital. "It's been a very interesting journey. I learned a lot about Covid," Trump said, standing in his hospital room in a video posted on social media. "I learned it by really going to school." It is to be noted that President Trump decided to leave the hsopital hours after his medical team confirmed that his blood oxygen level dropped suddenly twice in recent days. But it is learnt that President Trump could be discharged on Monday and continue his treatment from White House. Menahwile, several people have slammed President Trump's decision to get out of the hospital despite testing coronavirus positive. Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary presidential drive-by just now has to be quarantined for 14 days. They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity, Dr James P. Phillips, an attending physician at Walter Reed, tweeted. "That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of Covid-19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play," he added. Manali, Oct 5 : Motorists are tunnelling their way to accidents by combining selfies with reckless driving while zooming through the 9.02-km long horseshoe-shaped Atal Tunnel, the world's longest motorable tunnel, in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district. A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the tunnel, beneath the majestic Rohtang Pass on October 3, three accidents were reported with the motorists driving recklessly. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO), a wing of the Defence Ministry that excavated the tunnel at an altitude of 3,000 m or 10,000 feet with sheer hard work and determination in a decade, on Monday blamed the local authorities for not deploying the police to monitor the movement of motorists. However, with the raising of serious objections by the BRO, the state government has now deployed the police after 48 hours. BRO Chief Engineer K.P. Purushothaman told IANS that an official communication to provide forces to regulate the movement of the traffic was sent to the Chief Minister's Office on July 3 and to the local administration on October 3. The letter, accessed by IANS and addressed to the Advisor-cum-Principal Private Secretary to the Chief Minister, clearly specified the requirement of police. Also, the BRO asked the civil authorities to station fire brigade personnel at the tunnel. "Three accidents were reported in a single day on October 4. The cause of the accidents was largely reckless driving," he said. He said the CCTVs recorded that a few motorists stopped their vehicles midway while crossing the tunnel to take selfies. "No one is allowed to stop the vehicle midway and no overtaking is allowed despite the tunnel being double-lane, Purushothaman added. The BRO in another missive to the local authorities on October 3, the day the tunnel was to be inaugurated, reminded them to deploy security and fire engines at the tunnel. To prevent a "lone-wolf" attack, the BRO has not allowed the movement of vehicles through the tunnel carrying inflammable items such as petroleum, oil, lubricants and liquefied petroleum cylinders and explosives. The tunnel will be closed daily for two hours for maintenance -- in the morning from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. and in the evening from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. During the closure period, traffic will not be allowed beyond Dhundi, near here, from the south portal and ahead of the Chandra bridge at the north portal to avoid congestion near both the tunnel ends. The 9.2 km-long horseshoe-shaped single-tube, two-lane tunnel has been constructed under the 3,978 metre Rohtang Pass in the Pir Panjal range, some 30 km from here. The Atal Tunnel, a dream of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and named after him posthumously, has shortened the distance between Manali and Keylong, the headquarters of Lahaul-Spiti, by 46 km, reducing the travel time by nearly three hours. It has also ensured all-weather connectivity. With a maximum speed limit of 80 km per hour, the tunnel is capable to take traffic of 3,000 cars and 1,500 trucks per day. People in the landlocked Lahaul Valley, who are largely Buddhist and earn their livelihood by growing a single crop of potatoes, peas and exotic vegetables, believe the Atal Tunnel will bring economic prosperity to the otherwise snow-bound, inhospitable region. Before the tunnel construction, the Rohtang Pass was the only gateway to Lahaul towards Manali. The pass normally remained closed for five months every winter owing to heavy snowfall. The construction contract of the tunnel was awarded to Strabag-Afcons, a joint venture between India-based Afcons Infrastructure and Austria's Strabag. The Chandigarh-based Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) has designed mechanical structures to ensure the safety of motorists by countering avalanches on both ends of the tunnel that remain under snow even during peak summer. Engineers of SASE, a Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratory, said self-escape snow galleries have been erected for the safety of motorists after studying the local dynamics of avalanches like force and velocity. The tunnel's foundation stone was laid by United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on June 28, 2010, in the Solang Valley near Manali, some 570 km from the national capital. The completion of the Atal tunnel is a key element in the Defence Ministry's attempts to make the entire 475 km-long Manali-Keylong-Leh highway, used by the armed forces to reach forward areas in Ladakh bordering China and Pakistan, motorable almost round the year. (Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in) -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Civic Chamber member urges ban on storage of minors personal data by foreign IT firms RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov 11:18 05/10/2020 MOSCOW, October 5 (RAPSI) Member of Russias Civic Chamber Commission on Development of Information Community, Mass Media, and Mass Communications Yekaterina Mizulina on Monday stated that it is needed to prohibit foreign IT companies to use for advertising purposes, store, and transfer to third parties personal data of minors. It is very important to consider a move prohibiting foreign IT companies to operate in this way with personal data of children under 14 years of age, who belong to an especially vulnerable group; it is very dangerous for them if their data get in hands of dubious persons, Mizulina said. The Civic Chamber members also believes digital literacy lessons need to be organized in schools as it is very important to make clear to children the risks and problems they may encounter when using their gadgets and the internet. That is why, Mizulina stresses, such lessons need to be introduced in school programs on the permanent basis. Earlier, the State Duma Committee on Information Policy in cooperation with Russias communications watchdog Roskomnadzor has launched the development of a bill introducing responsibility for censoring Russian nationals and companies on the Internet. Stepanov admitted the number of beds could be increased by another 15,000 units. Ukrainian Health Minister Maksym Stepanov says no new total lockdown is expected in the country because of the spread of the coronavirus at the moment. "So far we are acting under conditions of adaptive quarantine. Moreover, we can now see that the cities and districts where we introduced the [COVID-19] 'red' threat level and where they adhered to the relevant rules saw a decrease in the incidence within 14 days. We can immediately see it by figures," he told Ukraine 24 TV channel, commenting on the return of some countries to the strict regulations. According to Stepanov, today there are five times more COVID-19 patients or suspected cases in Ukraine than in July. "In mid-July, the number of patients being treated in hospitals simultaneously was a little more than 3,500 people diagnosed with the coronavirus. As of today, we have over 16,000 [coronavirus] patients or suspected cases; this is almost five times more. And they are on the rise every day. There is a limit [to the number of patients the healthcare system can handle]," he said. Read alsoUkraine redraws map of COVID-19 quarantine zonesA possible shortage of doctors and hospital beds are the main problems of the epidemic in Ukraine, Stepanov said. "If we are talking about beds, today we have 36,000 beds allocated for COVID-19 patients. [If there are more patients], there will be nowhere to admit them to. Relatively speaking, we cannot stop admitting [other] patients, providing care for those with a stroke, etc. And of course, this is our main concern. That is, we re-equip the system, we add beds, add oxygen, but, excuse me, we may not have enough doctors who can provide this medical assistance," the minister said. Stepanov admitted the number of beds could be increased by another 15,000 units. COVID-19 in Ukraine: Background Local health departments have adopted a wait-and-see approach, while local governments are researching their available options, following the release of a Supreme Court opinion that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer exceeded her authority in extending a state of emergency. At this point, our understanding is that the Governors Executive Orders are in effect for 21 days from the Supreme Court Ruling, although we know that she has requested clarification of this timeframe, Central Michigan District Health Department Health Officer Steve Hall said in a prepared statement. The Governor has also stated that many of her orders may be re-issued under other authorities. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) also has several Epidemic Orders in place which are not affected by the ruling. There are also multiple guidance plans and documents in place that serve to continue to guide us including the Return to School Roadmap and the MISafeStart Plan, as well as the comprehensive reopening plans developed by multiple sectors of business. MDHHS has advised that they are working on their next steps which will take a little time. We believe the best scenario is to assess what future rules or orders may be issued statewide before we determine if any local orders will be necessary. Following the release of Fridays ruling, which was prepared as a response to a federal lawsuit concerning a lawsuit brought against Whitmer over medical procedures, health departments in Ingham and Oakland counties moved quickly to issue orders keeping mask mandates in place. Macomb Countys executive, Mark Hackel, announced that Macombs health department would not. Two sections of the 1978 Public Health Code appear to provide for emergency orders during times of epidemic. The first empowers the director of the Department of Health and Human Services. The second, 333.2453, directly empowers local health officers: (1) If a local health officer determines that control of an epidemic is necessary to protect the public health, the local health officer may issue an emergency order to prohibit the gathering of people for any purpose and may establish procedures to be followed by persons, including a local governmental entity, during the epidemic to insure continuation of essential public health services and enforcement of health laws. Emergency procedures shall not be limited to this code. Whitmer has said that the court ruling doesnt take effect for 21 days, which was disputed over the weekend by legislative Republicans, who oppose a statewide mask mandate. From a public health perspective, the safety precautions that are in place and all of the work that we have done together have helped us to mitigate the viruss impact in the central Michigan region, Halls statement read. The reasons to continue masking, limiting gathering sizes, social distancing and screening of employees stretch far beyond Executive Orders. Local governments are looking into what options are available to them. Darcy Orlik, spokeswoman for the city of Mt. Pleasant, said they are, waiting for additional guidance regarding the matter. Union Township is taking the same approach, said Township Manager Mark Stuhldreher. A message was sent seeking comment to Mid-Michigan District Health Department. Leslie Kinnee, MMDHD spokeswoman, said shed need to get back in touch, but hadnt by press time. READ MORE: It was refreshing to hear the comments of the Lagos Police Commissioner HakeemOdumosu on the excesses of his men in Lagos last week. He was reacting to the brutality of the policemen sent to disrupt the Independence Day protest organized by the Coalition for Revolution (CORE). The RevolutionNow protest which was to hold in major cities of the country was to be a mass action against poor governance in the country. At Ojota, an overzealous policeman left a photojournalist covering the protest bleeding after breaking his head with a baton. CP Odumosu did not hide his displeasure of the incident. He not only condemned the action, but assured the policeman will face disciplinary actions and also promised to pay the bills for treating the battered news man. He called the action of the policeman an irresponsible act. Wow! Just listen to him, The man that was doing his lawful duty and the police assaulted him, we will take care of it. Once again, apologies for that. But you know me, I dont tolerate all these things and will never. There is no reason to justify what the police did. What he did was an assault, brutality and incivility. I wont cover that. Be rest assured he will face disciplinary action. My God! How did you feel reading those words? Does it sound like a typical Nigeria police officer? In the past while battering and arresting innocent protesters, you will hear that it was an order from above or an action to stop miscreants, looters, unlawful assembly or action against the enemies of democracy. Or at best you will receive no comment at all. As I read that report I remembered how I also felt at the beginning of the year while watching the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Ahmed Iliyasu of Zone 2 Command, Onikan parading the killers of a prominent businessman Chief Ignatius Odunukwe in Lagos. The AIG threw his arms around the late Chief Odunukwes younger brother, consoling him and reminding him that he promised them (the family) from the onset that he will do his best to see that the sudden disappearance of the Anambra-born owner of Fireman generators is solved. As I watched that clip I fought back tears. I once again felt proud of being a Nigerian. I saw in Ahmed Iliyasu; a former Kano State police commissioner and Chief Investigation Officer at the United Nations a dedicated, gallant, patriotic, loving, honest, god-fearing, detribalized Nigerian. I must say that I have not seen that level of love displayed by a security officer in the public before. And it was like a sorting balm to some of us who knew IG Odunukwe in person. We lived on the same close at Anthony Village when I was with Banex Group in late 90s. And like my former boss Sir Victor Mbanisi, he was from Oraukwu town in Idenmili Local Government of Anambra State. Yes, there are many of them from that small town - young, smart, hard-working, industrious and very wealthy. I learnt entrepreneurship, hard-work and dedication from them. You get infected with strong desire to be successful when you get in contact with these guys. Some of them did not have the opportunity for a formal education while growing up but today they lead and rule in their areas of businesses. Even their overseas partners always acknowledge, respect and envy their astuteness and dedication. I commend the AIG Iliyasu for comforting us by arresting the butchers of our dear IG. Look at the just concluded Edo state governorship election, the police and the electoral body proved that they can always deliver if given the right environment and the necessary support. The repot had it that over 30,000 police men and officers were deployed to the state for that day. Helicopters, boats and other equipment were also sent in to ensure a smooth conduct of the exercise. They were given a free hand to operate. And what was the outcome? The peoples wish prevailed. The election came out free and fair; with minor incidents. It was indeed a pleasant surprise because everybody had expected maximum violence. This is the kind of result you get when you allow the institutions to work. People have been congratulating the candidates and their backers but I think the first people to appreciate are President Buhari, the Inspector General of Police Mohammed Adamu and the Chairman of INEC who refused to interfere with the exercise. Even when his party was involved, the President decided to be neutral and the other agencies were forced to fall in line, thereby allowing a free and credible exercise. I dont want to care about the other political interpretations being suggested. The lesson here is just that we can get it right if we decide to. We can make our institutions and processes work like they do in other places. True. In the past it would have just taken a simple instruction from above or their body languages for the politicians to rig hell out of the elections with the full protection and connivance of the security agencies and the electoral commission. Yes, no election can be rigged without the full support of the security men. And in Nigeria, they will do it with impunity, with pride and ask you to go to court and challenge it. I mean the same court that they appointed and pay the judges? You already know the stories from some of those electoral petitions. This has been our bane - weak institutions, corrupt and unpatriotic leadership, unprofessional police and armed forces, uncourageous judiciary and electoral umpires. But if these critical institutions will be strengthened I believe the story will change for good. The Nigeria police force under the current leadership has been trying to rediscover itself and redeem its image. One must say that the police have been posting a positive performance in recent times by continues busting of crimes and tracking down criminals, especially armed robbers and kidnapers. We must encourage them to do better by giving them what they need to work quality training and retraining, expose them to other decent environment and exchange programs. We must properly and adequately equip them with modern tools, especially communication, tracking and forensic gadgets, better remuneration and cooperation from the citizens. If they have everything and we dont give them the information they need they will still not achieve much. We can enhance this by installing security cameras in our homes, offices, streets and public places. This makes their work, investigations a lot easier. Then on the part of the leadership, they must do everything to completely weed out those corrupt men and women that bring bad name to the force and also stop those activities that make the public loathe and doubt them. Yes, we can have an entirely brand new police force. We can create a new image for it by our collective actions. It is possible. I wish all of our cops could be like Ahmed Iliyasu and Hakeem Odumosu by not just serving with integrity but also with compassion and pride. Gabriel Agbo is the author of the books / audiobooks Never Again!, Move Forward, Power of Sacrifice, Power of Midnight Prayer. Tel: 08037113283 E-mail: [email protected] Website www.authorsden.com/pastorgabrielnagbo Brenda Hampton, whose family have owned their house on Lawrence Street for 60 years, wanted to know whether it was just her or more widespread, so she slipped on a mask and started canvassing the neighborhood with Big Boi, her white Shih Tzu-poodle mix, by her side. Ayla Stackhouse, 24, never got her admissions packet from the community college and missed the enrollment window. James Williams, 83, now made the two-mile drive to the post office to drop off his letters because he couldnt count on handing them to his mail carrier. No one, Hampton learned at the time, could recall seeing a blue and white postal truck among the rows of turn-of-the-century homes in Woodward Village in at least three days. Twelve political parties and three independent aspirants have so far downloaded nomination forms to contest the 2020 Presidential Election. A source at the Electoral Commission (EC) said after a meeting on Friday afternoon, eight political parties, including the National Democratic Congress, New Patriotic Party and Ghana Union Movement indicated their dates of submission. The source said the EC was hopeful that all the parties and independent presidential aspirants would file their nominations in time after downloading the forms successfully. According to the Commissions timetable, presidential and parliamentary aspirants for the December 7, 2020 General Election will file nominations from Monday October 5, to Friday October 9. Presidential aspirants are expected to present their completed nomination forms and a bankers draft of GHS100,000 to the Electoral Commission at its head office in Accra. Parliamentary aspirants will submit their forms and a bankers draft of GH10,000 to the Commissions offices in the constituencies. The Electoral Commission on September 15, 2020, opened nomination for presidential and parliamentary aspirants for the December polls. The aspirants are to download the forms from the ECs website and submit same as part of measures to contain the spread of COVID-19. In past elections, filing of nominations was done in two days but it has been increased to five days for the 2020 polls. The filing fee will be refunded to any presidential candidate who gets 25 per cent of the total valid votes cast. For parliamentary candidates, refund will be given to candidates who get 12.5 per cent of total valid votes cast. However, aspirants who are disqualified after filing nominations will not be given any refund. The EC Chairperson at a press conference to open the filing of nomination said, "To ensure the security and integrity of the nomination process, each political party will be provided with a unique password to enable them access the password protected nomination forms..." Source: GNA 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 Lok Janshakti Party chief Chirag Paswan (Image: Twitter.com/@ichiragpaswan) By announcing that it will not be contesting the Bihar assembly polls in alliance with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and particularly with the Janata Dal (United), the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) on October 4 laid to rest speculations regarding its decision on alliance and seat-sharing. However, the LJP, led by Chirag Paswan, son of party founder Ram Vilas Paswan, has stressed that it does not have any problem with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a component of the NDA in Bihar. In fact, after announcing its decision, the party said that at the national level and in the Lok Sabha elections, it shares a "strong" alliance with the BJP. Also Read: JD(U) asks LJP to spell out 'ideological differences' The LJP's move came after a series of meetings between Chirag Paswan and the BJP's top leadership, including party president JP Nadda and Home Minister Amit Shah. According to an Indian Express report, the LJP wanted at least 36 seats but the numbers being offered were very low. "Even if the numbers had been offered, Chirag Paswans idea has been to expand the party. He is firm in his belief that there is anti-incumbency against Nitish Kumar, and always wanted to fight alone. This will now be our test," a senior LJP leader told the newspaper. The party's leaders have said that the party hopes to play the kingmaker this time around. The party has the highest vote share in Bihar after the four big parties consisting of two opposition camps: BJP-JD(U) and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress. Also Read: Why are NDA allies JD(U)-LJP engaged in tussle ahead of Bihar polls? "There may be friendly fights between the BJP and the LJP in some seats. Even in Manipur and Jharkhand, the LJP fought separately from the BJP. In Manipur, where it won some seats, we joined the BJP government," another LJP leader said. The winning LJP candidates, party leaders have said, will form a government with the BJP. The best-case scenario for the party, another leader told the newspaper , is that it wins "10-15 seats" of the 243 Assembly seats in Bihar by using Prime Minister Narendra Modi's image and working with the BJP to grow into its next ally. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Julie Jammot (Agence France-Presse) Washington, United States Mon, October 5, 2020 18:05 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c493768f 2 Science & Tech Instagram,anniversary,lifestyle,united-states,black-lives-matter,climate-crisis,social-justice,pandemic Free Artful photos of sunsets and ice cream are being challenged by more activist content on Instagram as it turns 10 years old in a time of social justice protests, climate crisis, and the pandemic. Founded in 2010 by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, the app had one billion users two years and has grown fast since then, after first capturing the public's attention with its image filters, and easy photo editing and sharing tools. But playful pictures, once a hallmark of Instagram, are increasingly seen as off-key when people are "losing jobs, being sick, isolated and depressed, then on top of that the BLM (Black Lives Matter) protests and everything going on with the US election," reasoned Rebecca Davis. In 2016 she created 'Rallyandrise', an account devoted to helping people engage politically. "Not that there's no time and place for pretty photos, but maybe people are trying to find a balance," she said. The number of people subscribing to the New York resident's account has more than doubled to 24,000 in recent months. In May, protests erupted across the US after a video was shared across social media of handcuffed Black man George Floyd dying while a police officer knelt on his neck for more than five minutes in Minneapolis. Simultaneously, the pandemic had people hunkering down inside and spending more time than ever before online. Overshadowing it all was the contentious presidential election in November. "People were desperate for advice and guidance in doing something," Davis said. Online petitions, fund-raising and organizing became the norm and Instagram was prime terrain for the trend. Read also: Taiwan grandparents become Instagram stars modelling abandoned clothes 'Insta' spotlight Former US presidential contender Hillary Clinton and celebrity Kourtney Kardashian among several public figures who have used Instagram to spotlight racial issues by handing over their accounts to prominent African-Americans for 24 hours. "Instagram is our highest, most effective platform when it comes to getting users to follow through on action links," said American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) social media manager Emily Patterson, referring to getting people to click through to sign petitions, organize protests, or contact members of Congress. "It has the audience we're trying to reach." Instagram's Stories feature lets users present collections of images, such as a day spent protesting. And the app also ramped up its array of sharing tools. For political movements, Instagram has a coveted audience of young adults, from teenagers to people in their 30s, connecting with friends and peers. "On Facebook it's not just chosen friends and communities, it's also your parents, roommates, ex-partners -- a broad collection of everyone someone's ever known," Patterson said. "So people don't get into that platform on something deeply important to them." And Instagram is where people are spending a lot of time, which makes it ripe for activism. The results are proven, according to Patterson. The ACLU got complaints from US lawyers about "how much they hated people coming at them from social media" about separating immigrant children from their parents at the Mexico border, "and it mostly came from Instagram," Patterson said. Read also: Instagram adds video clips in challenge to TikTok Photos fuel outrage Teenage Swedish climate crisis activist Greta Thunberg rallied young people around the world using Instagram. Environmental activism is well suited for the image-focused app, moving people to action with heart-breaking pictures such as koala bears burnt in Australian fires. Immunologist Dr Noc, 27, said that few people go to Instagram for education, so you have to surprise them with knowledge. "People prefer bite size bits of information with captions, that are easy to digest and also are entertaining," said Noc, who uses his account to explain COVID-19 and the pandemic. Looking to the future, Noc has actually found his growth more explosive on video-snippet sharing app TikTok -- he suspects his success is down to fewer people posting there about immunology. He spends hours making videos for his 200,000 TikTok followers and reposts the clips on Instagram, where he has a smaller following. In the fast-moving tech world, Instagram marks its 10th birthday with its new political edge now under threat from the younger upstart. The state of the health service, particularly in Louth, is being laid bare by the Covid-19 crisis, according to Sinn Fein TD Ruairi O Murchu who raised a number of health-related issues in Leinster House last week. The lack of testing centres in Dundalk and Drogheda, uncertainty over the future of St John of God services in Louth and deficiencies in the delivery of mental healthcare were highlighted by the TD. Deputy O Murchu said that it is accepted that we will be dealing with Covid-19 for at least six to nine months and Louth is among the counties with high infection rates at present. He said: I reiterate that somebody must examine areas such as Dundalk and north County Louth, which has problems at present with an increase in cases. However, the test centre is moving to Ardee. That must be examined. In fairness, Deputy Imelda Munster has been strongly urging that Drogheda also needs a test centre. These are two major urban areas. There also needs to be sufficient stocks of flu vaccine and, crucially, the capacity in healthcare settings to administer it, he said. In addition, non-Covid related health issues were raised by Deputy O Murchu. He said: I previously raised the dental treatment services scheme, DTSS. I have been contacted by a number of people who use these services and also use intellectual disability services. There are far fewer dental practitioners using the scheme at present. It is a difficulty for anybody who has a medical card. It requires action and a delivery plan because there does not appear to be a solution at present. We have all heard the horror stories about children in very bad circumstances. The news that St John of God Community Services will cease its involvement in the provision of community services by 1 October 2021, including in Louth has caused huge worry for families in the constituency, he said. Mr O Murchu told the Dail: A large number of people will be impacted, including workers. Families are incredibly worried about whether the service provision will happen. We must get some type of solution. I am thinking of the families, the service users and the workers in places such Drumcar and the St. John of God Venegas Centre in Dundalk. And he asked for Ministers of State Ann Rabbitte and Mary Butler, who have responsibility for mental health care, to consider meeting some Louth families impacted by suicide. He said: Perhaps the Minister of State would be good enough to meet some of the families to hear about their issues, because it is an ongoing situation and we need to provide some clarity on protocols and a solution that facilitates a service that people deserve. I would be grateful if that could happen as quickly as possible. Title Alliance expands to Washington with Title Alliance Puget Sound set to open in October. It is fulfilling to see our footprint continue to expand so that we can bring our services to a greater marketplace and have a larger impact on the lives of our investors, our agents, our team members, and our clients. Title Alliance, Ltd., an employee-owned family of full-service title insurance and escrow agencies, is excited to announce their continued expansion to new states as the real estate market continues to bustle, despite the pandemic. As of October, Title Alliance will partner with Keller Williams Realty Mountains to Sound and Keller Williams Puget Sound to form Title Alliance Puget Sound. The company will open new offices in Washington, expanding the companys growing footprint to their tenth state. Title Alliance Puget Sound will cater to the communities in the Greater Seattle Market, with an office in Federal Way and plans for a second office in Kent, Washington in the coming months. The real estate market in Seattle has shown a lot of resilience and with increased work-from-home options, people are in search of increased value and a lower population in the suburbs. Which is why Title Alliance has decided to expand its already thriving business into Washington. With a year-over-year 29 percent increase in joint venture profits nationwide, Title Alliance is primed to continue their progress into new markets. As we make strategic decisions to expand into new territories, it is critical that we find the right partner, said Lindsay Smith, Chief Strategy Officer at Title Alliance.Our westward growth began in 2015 and since then Washington has been on our radar. It is fulfilling to see our footprint continue to expand so that we can bring our services to a greater marketplace and have a larger impact on the lives of our investors, our agents, our team members, and our clients. Title Alliance Puget Sounds partnership with Keller Williams Realty Mountains to Sound and Keller Williams Puget Sound will provide products which include Bank Shot, Close Simple, and Title Capture. The offering of these products through strategic partnerships will allow for a smooth transaction from start to finish for the customers. The company is actively hiring high energy people with strong industry experience and excellent customer support skills looking to grow their professional skills. Current positions available in Washington include Regional Operations Manager, Escrow Officer, Escrow Assistant, and Title Officer, to name a few. Prospective candidates looking for a new opportunity in the Washington area, and beyond, can visit Title Alliance Careers for current job openings. One of the pillars of the Title Alliance philosophy is creating opportunities for personal and professional growth-one alliance at a time. As a result, while qualifications are important in the hiring process, personality and values are a higher priority. About Title Alliance: Title Alliance has been forming successful single and multi-state title joint ventures with lenders, realtors, and builders since 1983. We work with our partners to establish in-house title and settlement operations, dramatically enhancing their customer service and increasing their profit. Started and headquartered in Media, PA, Title Alliances family of companies are currently in 10 States with more than 55 offices. Title Alliance works with partners to establish in-house title and settlement operations to dramatically enhance customer service and increase profit. More information at http://www.titlealliance.com. WPP has announced the appointment of Tom Ilube CBE to its Board as an independent Non-Executive Director with immediate effect. Tom is a technology entrepreneur and educational philanthropist. He is the founder and CEO of AIM-listed Crossword Cybersecurity Plc, a technology commercialisation company focused on the cyber security sector and has previously founded several other technology start-ups. He is a Non-Executive Director of the BBC, where he serves on the audit and risk committee and chairs the fair-trading committee. He is also responsible for protected disclosures across the BBC, chairs the diversity and inclusion advisory group, and recently supported the appointment process for the new Director-General. From 2010 to 2014, Tom was Managing Director of Consumer Markets at Callcredit Information Group, the private equity-backed UK credit reference agency. Whilst at Callcredit, Tom founded Noddle, a credit reporting service that eventually grew to four million users and was acquired by US-based Credit Karma in 2018. Prior to Callcredit, Tom founded and was CEO of Garlik, a venture capital-backed identity protection company, sold to Experian in 2011. In the early 2000s, Tom served as Chief Information Officer of Egg Banking Plc, the UKs first Internet bank, and his 30-year career in the UK technology sector also includes roles at PricewaterhouseCoopers, Goldman Sachs and the London Stock Exchange. He chaired the UK Government Technology Strategy Boards Network Security Innovation panel, and was a member of the High-Level Expert Group on Cyber Security at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a Geneva-based UN agency. In his education work, Tom is the founder and Chair of the African Gifted Foundation, a programme for exceptionally gifted African children, which launched the African Science Academy, the continents first all-girls science and maths school. He was made a Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) by City, University of London and an Honorary Doctor of Technology by the University of Wolverhampton, and received his CBE in the 2018 Birthday Honours for services to technology and philanthropy. He is an Honorary Fellow of Jesus College, Oxford and an Advisory Fellow at St Annes College. He also served as Chair of Ada, the UKs National College for Digital Skills, and was the founding Chair of Governors of Hammersmith Academy. In 2017 Tom topped the Powerlist ranking of the most influential people of African or African Caribbean heritage in the UK. Commenting on the appointment, Roberto Quarta, Chairman of WPP, said, We are delighted to welcome Tom to the Board of WPP. He brings tremendous depth and breadth of experience across the worlds of technology, business, media, entrepreneurship, education and philanthropy, and we look forward to his contribution as the Company continues its transformation. Tom Ilube added here, Under its new management team, WPP has become a leader not only in creative services but also the provision of technology solutions for clients, so its an exciting time to join the Company. I look forward to working with the Board and executive leadership as WPP evolves its offer and delivers its strategy to grow the business, and to contributing to discussions around diversity at the Company and across the industry. Canadas oil industry is suffering the consequences of the global oil demand and price crash, just like every company in the sector anywhere in the world. For Canada, the price collapse came just as signs were starting to emerge that the oil sands industry had turned the corner from the 2014 crash. Canadas oil patch is now back to square one, trying to rein in costs with cuts in capital and operational expenditures, job cuts, and project deferrals. On top of low oil prices and decreased fuel demand due to the pandemic, the Canadian industry now faces increased environmental, social, and governance (ESG) scrutiny, which has led to international investors shunning the stocks of Canadian oil firms and international oil majors divesting from oil sands. As if this years demand and price collapse werent enough, ESG investing is piling pressure on Canadas oil sector much more than it did in the previous years following the 2014 crash. No wonder then that Canadian energy stocks have lost a lot of value on the energy market this year, underperforming even the poorly performing oil prices. Canadian oil stocks have actually never recovered from the 2008 financial crisis, data compiled by Bloomberg showed. The iShares S&P/TSX Capped Energy Index ETF, which has been on a downward trend since 2008, is down 53 percent year to date in terms of daily total return. The stocks of major Canadian oil firms have underperformed this ETFSuncor Energy is down 63 percent year to date as of early October, Cenovus Energy is down 64 percent, Husky Energy is down 70 percent, and Imperial Oilheld by Exxonis down 54 percent. Earlier this year, Suncor Energy axed its quarterly dividend by 55 percent to reduce its cash breakeven to a WTI Crude price of US$35 a barrel, Cenovus Energy announced a temporary suspension of the dividend after swinging to a Q1 loss, while Husky Energy slashed dividends by 90 percent as it also posted a Q1 loss. More recently, Suncor Energy announced it would cut 2,000 jobs, or around 15 percent of its workforce, while Husky Energy is reviewing its West White Rose Project in the Atlantic region. Unfortunately, the delay caused by COVID-19 and continued market uncertainty leaves us no choice but to undertake a full review of the project and, by extension, our future operations in Atlantic Canada, CEO Rob Peabody said in September. Related: Saudi Arabia Sees Oil At $50 Until 2023 Job losses in the Canadian natural resources sector hit an all-time high of 43,000 in the second quarter. While the industry and the ruling politicians in the oil province Alberta tout the recovery of the energy sector as the driver of Canadas economic recovery from the crisis, investors are not convinced in the bright future of the oil and gas industry in Canada because of what they see as its weak environmental credentials. The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) says that the industry has strong environmental standards, where natural gas and oil are responsibly produced in a stable economy and should be the basis of the countrys economic recovery. But major investors and oil majors beg to differ. In Q2, Frances Total booked US$8.1 billion impairments of which US$7 billion in Canadas oil sands as it cut its short-term price expectations. The only projects identified as stranded assets are the Canadian oil sands projects Fort Hills and Surmont, Total said in July. Two months earlier, the worlds largest sovereign oil fund, Norways US$1-trillion Government Pension Fund Global, excluded from its portfolio Canadian Natural Resources, Cenovus Energy, Suncor Energy, and Imperial Oil, citing unacceptable greenhouse gas emissions. Commenting on the funds decision, Cenovus president and CEO Alex Pourbaix said in a statement to Financial Post at the time: Pulling investments from the oilsands and claiming its for climate change reasons is more about publicity than fact. Alberta Energy Minister Sonya Savage called the funds decision poorly informed and highly hypocritical, pointing to the fact that Norway itself is a large oil and gas producer. Canadian producers believe their industry could address investor concerns about emissions and recover in the future, especially if market access via new pipelines improves. Yet, the investor snub in recent years suggests that the oil patch in Canada will have a hard time convincing investors that oil sands is a business worth investing in the energy transition. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: A new study examining the link between peanut and tree-nut anaphylaxis in children and holidays found spikes at Halloween and Easter. The study, led by a team of researchers from the Montreal Children's Hospital of the McGill University Health Centre (MCH-MUHC), found that most were previously unknown allergies, calling for increased awareness. Identifying certain times associated with an increased risk of anaphylaxis - a serious and life-threatening allergic reaction - could help to raise community awareness, support and vigilance. This information would identify the best timing for public awareness campaigns to prevent allergic reactions." Melanie Leung, a fourth-year medical student at McGill University and Dr. Moshe Ben-Shoshan, a pediatric allergist and immunologist at the MCH-MUHC and scientist at the Research Institute of the MUHC, with coauthors Researchers compared anaphylaxis at Halloween, Easter, Christmas, Diwali, Chinese New Year and Eid al-Adha. Data from across the country The study included 1,390 patients visiting participating pediatric emergency departments between 2011 and 2020 in four Canadian provinces: British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The median age of patients was 5.4 years and 62 percent were boys. For peanut-triggered anaphylaxis, there was an 85 percent increase in daily average cases during Halloween and a 60 percent increase during Easter compared with the rest of the year. For anaphylaxis triggered by unknown nuts, there was a 70 percent increase during Halloween and Easter compared with the rest of the year. However, the researchers did not find an increase at Christmas, Diwali, Chinese New Year or Eid al-Adha. "The difference in the anaphylaxis incidence among holidays may have been due to the social setting in which each holiday takes place," says Leung. "At Halloween and Easter, children often receive candies and other treats from people who may be unaware of their allergies. The absence of such an association at Christmas may be because Christmas is a more intimate celebration among family members and close friends, who are more vigilant regarding allergen exposure." Canadian labeling may also be a factor, as individual packages of one-bite candies and snacks, which are exempt from labeling requirements listing ingredients, are popular at Halloween and Easter. Education and awareness key to risk reduction "Our findings suggest that educational tools to increase vigilance regarding the presence of potential allergens are required among children with food allergies, their families and lay people interacting with children who have food allergies. Newer strategies targeting intervals associated with high anaphylaxis risk are required," says Dr. Ben-Shoshan. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) share price touched a 52-week high of Rs 2,649.95, gained 5 percent in the early trade on October 5 as company board said it will consider share buyback. The company board will meet later this week, on October 7, to consider a share buyback proposal. "...the board of directors will consider a proposal for buyback of equity shares of the company, at its meeting to be held on October 7, 2020," the company informed the exchanges on October 4. No other details of the buyback plan were disclosed. Also Read - TCS Board to consider share buyback on October 7 In the said meeting board is also going to consider its financial results for the September quarter and declaration of a second interim dividend to the equity shareholders. At 9:17 hrs Tata Consultancy Services was quoting at Rs 2,637.80, up Rs 115.05, or 4.56 percent on the BSE. Patna, Oct 5 : Soon after the killing of a Dalit leader in Purnia, four members of a family were found murdered on Monday in Bihar's Nalanda district. The incident was discovered after neighbours informed the police about a foul smell emerging from the flat of the deceased. When the police reached the spot and broke the door open, they found four persons, including two children, lying on the floor with their throats slit. The deceased were identified as Neha Kumari (41), her husband Ravi Kumar (46) and their children Aahaan Kumar (14) and Jeni Kumari(17. Neha was a teacher in a government school at Parbalpur in Nalanda district. In a statement to the police, Ravi's father Rajendra Paswan said he had been unable to establish contact with Ravi or the other family members for the last three days since their mobile phones were switched off. Following the incident, Nalanda SP Nilesh Kumar reached at the spot and instructed that the bodies be sent for postmortem. "We recovered the bodies in a decomposed stage and have sent them for postmortem. The postmortem will be conducted by a three-member panel," Kumar said. "We are recording statements of their neighbours and an investigation is underway," Kumar said. Earlier in the day, one person was killed and another critically injured in two separate incidents in the Patna Sahib (City) neighbourhood. In the first incident, two unidentified men attacked Kalu Jaiswal (36) in the Hajiganj area. Kalu was headed for his electronic shop near Patna City Chowk around 11 am when he was attacked. The attackers are waiting for him and shot him at close range. Kalu died on the spot. Kalu's brother happens to be a municipal councillor named Manoj Jaiswal. Preliminary investigations indicate that a property dispute could have triggered the murder. In another incident in the same locality, a delivery boy of an online shopping company was shot at by unidentified assailants. The deceased, Rajesh Mehta (24) sustained gunshot injuries on his head and was admitted to the Patna Medical Collage Hospital. His condition is said to be extremely critical. New Delhi/Tel Aviv, Oct 5 : Saudi Arabia has asked its citizens to boycott everything Turkish after Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Arab countries of destabilising the region. Israel, which generally avoids public criticism of Turkey, lashed out at Istanbul for disrupting peace efforts and asked NATO members to rein it in. Saudi Arabia's Chamber of Commerce head Ajlan Al Ajlan on Saturday tweeted,"The boycott of everything Turkish, whether on the level of import, investment or tourism, is the responsibility of every Saudi - trader and consumer - in response to the continued hostility of the Turkish government against our leadership, our country and our citizens." Erdogan had recently blamed the Arab countries for instability in the Middle East. Though Turkey has had diplomatic relations with Israel for decades, Erdogan condemned the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain's decision to normalise ties with Israel. During his recent address to the Turkish General Assembly, Erdogan also took a dig at the Arab countries saying, "It should not be forgotten that the countries in question did not exist yesterday, and probably will not exist tomorrow; however, we will continue to keep our flag flying in this region forever, with the permission of Allah." In the meantime, Israel's defence minister blasted Turkey on Sunday for working against its peacemaking efforts. Media reports said that Defence Minister Benny Gantz, while talking to Gulf Arab media, described Turkey and Iran as "denying promotion of peace and supporting regional aggression". Gantz pointed out Turkey's disruptive actions in northern Syria and the Eastern Mediterranean, intervention in Libya and links to Hamas terror group. "All of this pushes away from stability," he said adding, "Definitely the question of Turkey is a very complicated one, because Turkey is part of NATO," Gantz told a virtual conference organised by The Arab Council for Regional Integration, a group that encourages Israeli-Arab outreach. "So we must take all the options that we have in our hands and try to influence it through international pressure to make sure that they are pulling their hands from direct terrorism." The peace deals between Gulf states and Israel have disappointed the Palestinians, who have been demanding statehood in the West Bank and Gaza. The US and Israel believe the peace deals with the UAE and Bahrain could lead to the fulfilment of a peace deal for with Palestine as well. The coronavirus pandemic continued to show signs of abating Sunday as city officials said no new deaths were recorded. The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District reported 113 new cases, down from 145 on Saturday. That brought the total number of confirmed infections to 58,678 since the start of the pandemic in March. Metro Health estimates that nearly 80 percent of those patients have recovered. Still, the total number of cases was up substantially from Saturday, when Metro Health said 58,184 had been tallied. Thats because of the addition of 381 older cases that had been caught in a backlog. Altogether, 1,167 people have died of COVID-19 in Bexar County. An additional 151 deaths recorded by the state health department are under investigation, Metro Health said. The latest numbers underscored an overall improvement in the pandemic in San Antonio and Bexar County. We continue to see a slow decline and a plateauing of the numbers, which is better certainly than where we were before, Mayor Ron Nirenberg said. Were not at a place yet where we can say the virus is no longer a threat. People have to continue to be cautious, especially if we continue to see facilities and operations return to pre-COVID levels. Its going to require us to modify behaviors and (do) the simple things that public health officials have been telling us from the start: wearing a mask, physical distancing, personal hygiene, etc., he said. Two hundred COVID-19 patients were in local hospitals as of Sunday, nine more than Saturday. That was a vast improvement from mid-July, when more than 1,200 people were hospitalized with the virus. Of those in hospitals Sunday, 80 were in intensive care, one fewer than the day before, and 30 were on ventilators, down four from Saturday. In a week that saw President Donald Trump admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for treatment of COVID-19, the pandemic hit home in San Antonio in other ways. It forced the cancellation last week of the massive Jimenez Thanksgiving dinner at the Convention Center and another Turkey Day tradition: the annual effort by families around San Antonio to host and feed young soldiers and airmen. Still, there was good news. Key measures of the virus spread are more favorable than in July and early August, when the number of confirmed new cases sometimes exceeded 1,000 in a single day. Nirenberg expressed optimism that the citys partnership with a new nonprofit, Community Labs, to do faster and more accurate COVID testing would mark a turning point. The tests, which will become available Monday, will be given free to people without symptoms. The PCR Diagnostic Panel that will be used has the highest level of accuracy, the mayor said. Results will be available within one day, he added. A PCR test that can produce rapid results is really the only way we can use massive testing to our advantage, Nirenberg said. Initially, the free tests for asymptomatic people will be available only at specified times. On Monday, they will be offered at Cuellar Community Center, 5626 San Fernando St., from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. On Tuesday, they will be available at Ramirez Community Center, 1011 Gillette Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. On Wednesday, the tests will be offered at Freeman Coliseum, 3201 E. Houston St., between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. All three sites will offer daily testing starting Oct. 12. To schedule an appointment, call 830-391-8559. Sig Christenson covers the military and its impact in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. To read more from Sig, become a subscriber. sigc@express-news.net | Twitter: @saddamscribe October 5, 2020 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Biometrics is the measurement and statistical analysis of people's unique physical and behavioural traits. The technology is mainly used for access control or for identifying individuals who are under surveillance. The basic premise of biometric authentication is that every person is accurately determined by their unique physical or behavioural features. The term biometrics comes from the Greek words bio, meaning life, and metric, meaning to measure. Although the technology of biometrics has been around for years and is an already established product, adoption is shockingly low, particularly in the business sector. The fingerprint recognition is one of the first types of biometric schemes, along with eye scan, voice and signature recognition and body mapping. They are not science fiction widgets seen in the movies anymore, but a viable, cost-effective solution to some of the most challenging and demanding business security challenges. Commercial Applications Authentication by biometric verification is becoming increasingly common in corporate and public security systems, consumer electronics and sales apps. The driving force behind biometric verification has been convenience, as there are no passwords or tokens to remember or carry with you. Some methods can even operate with no direct contact with the authenticated person. Land-based casino industry security has long used facial geometry, employing cameras to monitor individuals as they enter and leave the property. If an individual who is banned from a casino tries to enter, he is quickly identified and rejected by the system and later the security guards. Online casinos and iGaming work on similar solutions, with data security, analysis and consumer behaviour being at the forefront. Even though there is a big competition in the online community regarding gaming operators and offers, not everyone nurtures the culture for innovating in the customer security field. Thankfully, the online audience is quite aware of the latest trends regarding data security and potential breaches. For these reasons, they carefully choose the providers who are transparent and willing to protect their prospect to the maximum standards. For example, if you want to find out more about online bingo games and where you can play and register, check Bingo Scanner - new bingo sites. This is the place where you can find general info for gaming providers, their rating, and of course their bonus offers. Advantages and benefits The use of biometrics has plenty of advantages and disadvantages regarding its use, security and other related functions. Biometrics are beneficial because they are: hard to fake or steal, unlike passwords easy and convenient to use generally, the same throughout a user's journey nontransferable The challenges that this industry still faces and works towards finding a solution are: It is quite expensive to get a biometric system up and to run. If the system fails to capture all of the biometric data, it can lead to failure in identification. Errors such as false rejects and false accepts can still happen. Fingerprint mapping is one area that shows great potential, and adoption is picking up quite rapidly. Facial recognition combined with action identification technology is another powerful tool that is increasingly being used, and the industry is quite curious for it. For example, this technology is used in the London subway system to monitor passenger identity and threatening behaviour. The technology is deployed in Osaka, Japan and China when they introduced the driverless train with a facial recognition check-in. The lack of universal back-end systems has slowed the fast adoption. There's a lot to be done on this front. Still, as standards evolve and the understanding of the benefits grows, we can expect exponential growth in leveraging this type of security technology. More Info: This news is published on the Investorideas.com Newswire - a global digital news source for investors and business leaders Disclaimer/Disclosure: Investorideas.com is a digital publisher of third party sourced news, articles and equity research as well as creates original content, including video, interviews and articles. Original content created by investorideas is protected by copyright laws other than syndication rights. Our site does not make recommendations for purchases or sale of stocks, services or products. Nothing on our sites should be construed as an offer or solicitation to buy or sell products or securities. All investing involves risk and possible losses. This site is currently compensated for news publication and distribution, social media and marketing, content creation and more. Disclosure is posted for each compensated news release, content published /created if required but otherwise the news was not compensated for and was published for the sole interest of our readers and followers. Contact management and IR of each company directly regarding specific questions. More disclaimer info: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Disclaimer.asp Learn more about publishing your news release and our other news services on the Investorideas.com newswire https://www.investorideas.com/News-Upload/ and tickertagstocknews.com Global investors must adhere to regulations of each country. Please read Investorideas.com privacy policy: https://www.investorideas.com/About/Private_Policy.asp U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) announces during a press conference that he won't seek reelection or run for governor in 2022. Read more When Pat Toomey won reelection to the Senate in 2016, he did it using the traditional Republican formula for success in Pennsylvania: win big in the states conservative areas, and keep it close in the suburbs by appealing to moderates. It was tight, but it worked. But that same year, then-candidate Donald Trump tore up that playbook and went a different way. His combative approach got him crushed in the suburbs but drew out so many rural and small-city voters that he won anyway. Barely. Now, with Toomey planning to leave politics after 2022, wide-open GOP primaries for governor and Senate that year could provide the first post-2020 test of which path Pennsylvania Republicans choose for their future. Will they opt for someone who echoes the sharp-edged Trump style? Or return to a figure like Toomey who, while deeply conservative on policy, offered a businessmans mild-mannered persona and more traditional style of Republican politics? Toomey announced Monday that he wont run for either reelection or governor. His decision opened the door for a wide range of candidates, turning the 2022 primaries into a potential pivot point for a party that has been dominated by Trump and will continue to be if he can mount a comeback to win reelection. Toomey would have been the obvious favorite in either the 2022 Senate or governors race if he had run (and most political insiders expected him to campaign for governor). But in his place, a slew of Republican figures are expected to pile into both contests. READ MORE: This group protested Sen. Toomey every Tuesday for four years. Hes leaving politics, but they say the work isnt over. Both 2022 primaries now lack obvious Republican front-runners. So the jockeying has already begun, even with this years election still in the balance. There are so many potential candidates exploring a run for statewide office that the governor would need to ease COVID restrictions to fit them all on a debate stage, said Matt Beynon, a GOP strategist who works on Pennsylvania campaigns. Among those already being mentioned as potential Republican candidates for either race: U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, who is said to have enough personal wealth to help fund his own campaign, fellow U.S. Reps. Guy Reschenthaler, Glenn Thompson, and Lloyd Smucker, former gubernatorial candidate Paul Mango, who is also independently wealthy, and State Sen. Camera Bartolotta. Former U.S. Rep. Ryan Costello, of Chester County, has expressed interest in a Senate bid, though many in the party remain bitter over his relatively late decision to drop his 2018 reelection campaign. Jeff Bartos, a Lower Merion real estate developer who briefly ran for Senate in 2018 before switching to an unsuccessful bid for lieutenant governor, is said to be considering another Senate run. In a statement, Bartos said he was focused on running a nonprofit he started this year that provides loans to small businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic. We are going to be having discussions as a family in the days and weeks ahead, and look forward to having more to say after the election, Bartos said. READ MORE: Toomey announces he wont run for reelection or for Pennsylvania governor Some eyes are also on Republican William M. McSwain, the U.S. attorney in Philadelphia, who has forcefully echoed Trumps law and order message. The Democratic races could also be crowded, though Toomeys decision has not scrambled the calculus there as much. State Attorney General Josh Shapiro is still seen as the most likely Democratic nominee for governor, though he could yet face an opponent from the left. The Senate race, meanwhile, is expected to draw a far larger crowd, given Shapiros perceived strength in the gubernatorial contest. Shapiro, of course, like many other people now considering their futures, is first up for reelection this year and has to win that race before turning to other offices. Much could hinge on the outcome of the 2020 campaign. If Joe Biden is elected president, history suggests 2022 would lead to a midterm election cycle that favors Republicans. If Trump is in the sixth year of his presidency, however, the typical push against the party in the White House would favor Democrats. Theres also significant speculation about campaigns by Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, who ran for Senate in 2016 but lost in the Democratic primary, U.S. Reps. Conor Lamb and Chrissy Houlahan, and state Treasurer Joe Torsella. Many Democrats expect Fetterman, the former mayor of Braddock, outside of Pittsburgh, to make another run for Senate. But he has not ruled out the possibility that he might run for governor. READ MORE: Rural Pennsylvania voters dont hate Biden as much as they hated Clinton and Trump may need them to 2022 is wide open, Fetterman said in an interview Monday. I see two open lanes for 2022, but also the most consequential election of our lifetimes right in front of us in less than a month. Houlahan is focused on her reelection campaign and supporting other Democrats in November, but certainly isnt ruling out the possibility of running for Toomeys seat, a person close to the congresswoman said Monday. She and Lamb both flipped competitive congressional districts in 2018. A source familiar with Torsellas thinking said the Montgomery County Democrat is leaning toward running for governor in 2022 but hasnt ruled out a Senate bid. Torsella ran briefly for the Senate in 2010 and had been expected to try again, but over the course of the last year started looking instead at the race for governor. The source said Torsella, who is also on the Nov. 3 ballot for reelection, is interested in having the biggest and most useful impact for the state, which pushed him toward the governors office. People close to potential candidates or familiar with their plans spoke on the condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to discuss the plans publicly. A source close to U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle (D., Phila.) said he is eyeing a run to replace Toomey in the Senate. Running for that seat is something he is looking at, something hes going to strongly consider, but he wants to wait until after the election cycle, said the source, who has spoken directly with Boyle about his plans. Montgomery County Commissioner Valerie Arkoosh, a physician who helped guide the first Pennsylvania county to have a significant coronavirus outbreak, said that, after working to defeat Trump, she will turn her attention to very seriously exploring a run for U.S. Senate in 2022. READ MORE: Conor Lamb knows how to win Trump voters. Now hes trying to do it for Joe Biden. As I have led Montgomery County through this pandemic, I have seen firsthand that, at the federal level, a lot more could be done to prepare for emergencies such as a pandemic, Arkoosh said in an interview. Arkoosh said she was also interested in working in the Senate to improve health equity and fight for living-wage jobs. Another Democrat who may be in the mix for a Senate run is State Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta (D., Phila.), who has raised his profile in recent weeks with viral moments in Harrisburg, appearances on MSNBC, a brief speaking role at the Democratic National Convention, and visits to his House colleagues districts across the state. A progressive first-term lawmaker, Kenyatta could run to the left of many of the other potential candidates in a Democratic primary. In an interview, Kenyatta said hes focused on ensuring Biden wins Pennsylvania and helping Democrats take back the state House, but has had allies encourage him to run for Toomeys seat. Working people deserve a champion, Kenyatta said, and Pat Toomey was definitely not it. Staff writer William Bender contributed to this article. One of two suspects arrested in connection with the Worcester killing of 25-year-old Quentin Jacobs-Hylton earlier this year was charged with murder last week, authorities said. Court records and a spokeswoman for the Worcester District Attorneys Office confirmed Robert Dupuis Jr. was charged Friday in Worcester District Court with murder in the case. Dupuis remains held without bail. The 30-year-old man was scheduled for a dangerousness hearing Friday. The second suspect in the case, 34-year-old Malek Matos, was not charged with murder as of Monday morning. Authorities said both Dupuis and Matos were with Jacobs-Hylton the night the 25-year-old Worcester man was fatally shot on Aug. 16. The suspects are accused of holding a gun to Jacobs-Hyltons head and assaulting him before the shooting, according to a prosecutor. Dupuis claimed he met up with Jacobs-Hylton on Aug. 16 and planned to smoke marijuana at his house, court records show. According to Dupuis, another vehicle pulled up behind them. The suspect alleged two men got out and tried to steal his fanny pack. He ended up getting shot in the hand, the 30-year-old man told police. A victim, later identified as Jacobs-Hylton, was then brought to Saint Vincent Hospital with a gunshot wound to his head. He was pronounced dead at the hospital, authorities said. A witness told police Jacobs-Hylton was called the night of the shooting by another man who wanted to buy cocaine from him. Investigators claimed the victim met with two men on Stoneland Road before Dupuis held a gun to Jacobs-Hyltons head, while Matos attacked him during a struggle. Police said Mato and Dupuis left Massachusetts after the killing. Dupuis was later found Florida, while Matos was caught in New York, records show. Matos was arraigned in Worcester District Court in September on numerous firearms offenses as well as charges of assault and battery with a firearm, two counts of armed assault to rob and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury. He pleaded not guilty to the charges. Dupuis was also arraigned on several firearms offenses along with charges of assault and battery with a firearm, two counts of armed assault to rob and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury. He too pleaded not guilty. The suspects have criminal records accusing them of assault. Dupuis had bail revoked in a pending court case. MassLives Scott J. Croteau contributed to this report. Related Content: P olice have launched a CCTV appeal for a woman after a pensioner suffered a head injury when a robber stormed her home. The 80-year-old female victim was home alone in Shardeloes Road, Lewisham, when a man knocked on the door and forced his way in, pushing her to the floor, Scotland Yard said. The elderly woman banged her head on furniture and lay injured on the floor while the man rifled through her handbag, stole her purse and fled. Within ten minutes, the pensioners stolen bank card had been used four times in three shops in Lewisham Way, racking up a bill of 94. Detectives now want to trace the woman pictured above to help with their investigation. Detective Constable Bethany Russell said: Understandably, the woman has been left shaken and distressed after this incredibly violating incident. This was a cowardly, shameful attack and I want to find those who are responsible, not only to help put this victims mind at ease, but also to ensure that they dont target anyone else. We have released a CCTV image of a woman we would like to speak to in connection with the incident and urge anyone who recognises her to contact us as a priority. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 referencing CAD 4005 of October 4, email or tweet @MetCC, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. The forensic team of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) has, according to media reports citing the doctor leading the team, concluded that Sushant Singh Rajput died by suicide. While the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is proceeding with its own enquiries, the AIIMS finding should put an end to the unfortunate and almost absurd drama that came to accompany Rajputs tragic death. As this newspaper has argued, Rajputs suicide should have been a moment to have a serious conversation in this country about mental health. Instead, elaborate conspiracy theories were constructed placing the blame on either a set of powerful Bollywood figures or on Rajputs partner, actor Rhea Chakraborty, or both. Television channels were at the forefront of declaring that Rajputs death was, in fact, murder. Politicians, especially in Bihar, and of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, jumped into the fray the former with an eye on the upcoming state elections and the latter with possibly a desire to send a message to cultural and movie figures to fall in line. The Maharashtra and Bihar police fought with each other. The judiciary stepped in. Drug and money laundering investigations were kicked off. And Ms Chakraborty was arrested. All of this was premised on the belief that Rajput was either murdered it is now clear that there was no murder or driven to suicide, all on the basis of almost non-existent evidence and an outright ignorance of mental health issues. Indias news television channels owe their audience an apology; politicians who stepped into the fray should introspect and pull back; and investigative agencies should learn to focus on their core job. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Lisa Martin (Agence France-Presse) Bangkok, Thailand Mon, October 5, 2020 12:04 475 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4922ac9 2 Environment Thailand,zoo,deer,animals,zoology,crime,murder Free A top zoo official in Thailand has been killed by a vet in a murder-suicide, police said Saturday, as an investigation dug into the disappearance of a rare deer. Last week, Thailand's environment minister Varawut Silpa-archa ordered an investigation into the animal's disappearance, after rejecting the zoo's explanation that a python ate it. Authorities are examining whether the rare albino barking deer -- last seen eight months ago -- was stolen. Suriya Sangpong, director general of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand, was heading up the investigation and traveled from Bangkok to Songkhla Zoo for a meeting with staff on Saturday. The 58-year-old was shot at about 11:30 am at the zoo's office, police in Songkhla said. Officers said the gunman, Phuvadol Suwanna, a vet who also lived at the zoo, was under stress because he had been ordered to transfer to another position while the investigation was under way. Read also: 5 destinations to photograph wild animals in Indonesia They said he committed suicide about an hour after shooting the director. "The gunman was (the director's) long-time friend, they were both from southern provinces," Jatuporn Buruspat, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, told AFP. The organization said it would continue to investigate the deer's disappearance. The rare animal, named Snow, was born last December and was related to a deer which was presented to Thailand's Queen Mother as a gift. Barking deer, or muntjacs, are known for the sound they make, which acts as a warning when they encounter a threat. Topics : Thailand zoo deer animals zoology crime murder The Ministry of Public Finance (MFP) borrowed, on Monday, 500 million lei from banks, through a benchmark government bond issue, with a residual maturity of 88 months, at an average yield of 3.34% per year, according to data transmitted by the National Bank of Romania (BNR). The nominal value of Monday's issue was 500 million lei, and the banks subscribed 765.4 million lei.An additional tender is scheduled for Tuesday, by which the state wants to attract another 75 million lei at the yield set on Monday for bonds.The Ministry of Public Finance planned, in October 2020, loans from commercial banks of 4.4 billion lei through benchmark state issues, to which can be added the amount of 660 million lei through additional sessions of non-competitive offers, related to bond tenders.The total amount, of 5.06 billion lei, is 500 million lei higher than the one scheduled in September and will be destined for the refinancing of the public debt and the financing of the state budget deficit. I dont think its just bluster, and I dont think its just about venting anger, said Bonnie S. Glaser, director of the China Power Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, who is an expert on Taiwan and China. I think there is growing pressure and that Xi Jinping finds that its useful to display that pressure. More bombast is to come. The latest propaganda surge has coincided with the 70th anniversary of the Korean War, also known in China as the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea, which has long served as an instrument for stoking anti-American sentiment. Chinese forces intervened in the war on Oct. 19, 1950, and, as official narratives here have it, ultimately drove the American-led United Nations forces back to the 38th parallel in a heroic triumph of the newly established Peoples Republic of China. With U.S.-China relations at a new low, officials and propagandists are using the anniversary to remind Chinese people that the nation has stood up to the worlds superpower before and prevailed. A memorial museum dedicated to the conflict recently reopened in Dandong, a Chinese city across the Yalu River from North Korea. A series of films about the war is also rolling out to carry forward the great spirit of resisting U.S. aggression, as the description of one documentary put it. Leaf of cannabis in the hand in the setting sun on blurred background beautiful mountain landscape. Concept breeding of marijuana, cannabis, legalization. New Zealand, which will go into elections on October 17, will also be holding a referendum to decide whether cannabis should be legalised or not. If New Zealanders are to vote for legalising cannabis for recreational usage, it would join the likes of countries such as Canada, Uruguay and certain states in the United States where consumption of marijuana is legal. Early poll numbers, from the latest Newshub Reid-Research poll, however, reveal that only 37.9 per cent population support the proposition. In India, the investigations into Sushant Singh Rajputs death has thrown open a Pandoras box of drug abuse in Bollywood. The arrest of actor Rhea Chakraborty by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) over the discovery of 59 gms of curated marijuana seized, and the questioning of lead Bollywood actors such as Deepika Padukone over certain WhatsApp chats which referred to maal and hash, has brought back a much-debated topic - that of legalisation of marijuana. Also known as Weed, Pot or Ganja, Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal drug in the world. Around 3 crore people use it in India, alone, with Delhi the third-largest cannabis consumer in the world and Mumbai, the 6th largest. India also grows some of the most sought after varieties of weed in the world the stunning Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh is a Hippies paradise, where the hugely popular Malana weed is cultivated. Keralas Idukki Gold is renowned as one of the best strains of weed in Asia. Pot paradise Ariel view of and from the mountain village of Malana, India. The place lushes with greenery in the summers, but as it is at 10000 ft, conical rooftops are made to stand the snowfalls of the winter. Its famous for its Quality Hashish, 5K India is no stranger to marijuana, a drug that has been used for thousands of years, dating back as far as 4000 BC. The cannabis plant even finds a mention in the Vedas and is closely associated with Lord Shiva. The drink Bhang or thandai served during Holi is prepared from dried cannabis leaves and milk, with other spices added to it. Bhang is legal in the country and is sold at specific government authorised shops. Weed also has a connection with Ayurveda, which, while connoted as a toxic substance in Ayurvedic texts, has traditionally been used in medicines. In 2018, the Centre Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences in collaboration with Gujarat Ayurved University found that cannabis leaves can be effective in alleviating pain and other symptoms in cancer patients post-chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Story continues Further, research is being conducted to develop cannabis-based drugs for the treatment of pain in illnesses such as epilepsy, anaemia and cancer by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR - IIIM) in collaboration with Bombay Hemp Company (BOHECO), a startup which works with industrial hemp. Following the US footsteps So, with such religious and historical connections to it, how can the consumption of marijuana be illegal in India? The recreational usage of marijuana is illegal in India and is governed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985. Consumption of marijuana is punishable with a jail term of six months or a fine of Rs 10,000, while illegal production and cultivation can be punished with a jail term of up to 10 years. However, marijuana was legal in India until 1984. It was in the 1960s that the United States launched an offensive against the drug and a drive to ban it. During the 1961 Convention on Narcotics Drugs, India had even opposed the classification of marijuana as a hard drug. Bucking under pressure, the Rajiv Gandhi administration passed the NDPS Act in 1985 which criminalised cannabis in its resin and bud form, but allowed the sale of bhang at government-approved shops. Ironically, several states in the United States have now either legalised marijuana or are considering it. In India, various NGOs and activists have been asking for its legalisation. Their argument is that the criminalisation of marijuana has pushed the drug underground and to onto the hands of criminals who make it more potent and dangerous. Arguments favouring legalising marijuana also say that it could lead to fewer chances of addiction. A study conducted in 1994 by epidemiologist John Anthony who surveyed more than 8,000 people about their marijuana usage, discovered that the chances of getting addicted to the drug were 9 per cent. For alcohol, this figure was 15 per cent, for heroin 23 per cent and for nicotine, 32 per cent. Legalisation will also help villagers in areas like the Parbati Valley and the upper reaches of Kullu and Manali, and Idukki in Kerala whose main source of income comes from cannabis. Currently, with marijuana being illegal, farmers are forced to sell it to drug peddlers at low prices, and have problems with the police. Those for legalising the drug argue that by making the drug legally available, farmers would benefit from a more regulated market. Flipside: The harmful effects of cannabis However, the fact remains that cannabis, when taken recreationally still remains a drug which could have harmful effects on the consumer. While a plant, it contains the mind-altering chemical, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the intoxication that people who consume it feel. The plant also has over 400 other chemicals. Researchers from the University of Alberta have identified potentially toxic chemicals in marijuana smoke which could have health effects. In a single puff of cannabis smoke, researchers have isolated around 110 toxic chemicals which may have carcinogenic, mutagenic or teratogenic effects, which could affect the development of the embryo or foetus. Research conducted in Pittsburgh has also discovered that children of frequent marijuana users have relatively less attention span than their peers. Early marijuana usage has also been linked to a loss in I.Q levels of pre-teens. Further, The Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study conducted in Dunedin, New Zealand has found that people who smoke even one joint a week are prone to developing respiratory illnesses. Occasional smokers who cut down on weed, also had reduced symptoms, while heavy smokers had a persistent cough and wheeze even after cutting down, or quitting completely. This proves that the side effects of smoking weed on heavy smokers may linger for long. Those who are against the legalisation of weed are also worried that its usage could prove to be a gateway to other, more potent, hard drugs. Marijuana, if used responsibly, could help those cultivating it and using it. However, with India already grappling with problems of alcoholism, excessive tobacco usage, much more research needs to be carried out to ensure that the risks do not outweigh the potential benefits. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Matthew Green (Reuters) London, United Kingdom Mon, October 5, 2020 19:30 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c493b68e 2 Environment Britain,tropical-forest,environment,foods,Tesco,Marks-and-Spencer,Sainsburys,Nestle,McDonalds Free Supermarkets, food manufacturers and restaurant chains under pressure from campaigners over their environmental impact urged Britain on Monday to strengthen a plan to stop tropical forests from being cut down to grow cocoa, palm oil and soy. With the food industry under growing scrutiny for its role in driving deforestation in countries such as Brazil and Indonesia, Britain is drawing up legislation to force the sector to tighten oversight of its supply chains. In an open letter, some 20 large companies welcomed the plans as a "step forward" but said "it's not currently envisioned to be enough to halt deforestation and we encourage the government to go further to... address this issue". Signatories included supermarkets Tesco, Marks & Spencer, Morrison's and Sainsbury's, food manufacturers Unilever, Nestle and Greencore Group, McDonald's Corp and various livestock producers. Britain's move to introduce legal penalties for companies found to be complicit in deforestation aims to improve upon a range of voluntary, industry-led initiatives that have faced widespread criticism from environmental groups. Companies say they would prefer clear direction from governments that would create standard rules rather than navigating the existing maze of voluntary initiatives. Under the proposed legislation, large companies would have to report on how they source tropical commodities. The companies would also be banned from using products that are harvested illegally in their country of origin. Read also: Pandemic boosting demand for plant-based foods, Nestle says But the supermarkets and food companies who signed the letter say the proposed new law has a major loophole: farmers in developing countries can often clear forests to grow cash crops for export without breaking any laws. The companies want the new British rules to apply to all deforestation - not just in cases where the destruction is illegal. "The proposed legislation would continue to allow rampant deforestation in hotspots such as Indonesia and Brazil," said Robin Willoughby, UK director of campaign group Mighty Earth. Companies are also concerned that the legislation would not apply to smaller firms who may import considerable amounts of products, such as rubber, from sensitive forest regions. Cyril Kormos, executive director of Wild Heritage, a nonprofit based in Berkeley, California, said a more comprehensive overhaul of forest management rules globally would be needed to reverse the loss of old-growth forests, whose stores of carbon form bastions to slow climate change. "Deforestation pledges only go so far," Kormos said. "We need an equivalent focus on ending degradation of primary forests." National Chairman of the Progressive People's Party (PPP), Nana Ofori Owusu has cautioned Ghanaians against treating leaders in the country as ''gods''. He called for the culture of deifying people at leadership positions in the country to end with immediate effect. Speaking to host Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo', Nana Ofori Owusu argued that no one person can solely develop the nation of Ghana, hence bemoaning the politics of ascribing godly attributes to leaders. He advised Ghanaians not to elevate any person no matter his or her socio-political status to the level of God, stressing "we are human beings and as human beings, we have beginning and the end. It's only God who is the Alpha and the Omega". Watch his full submissions below: Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Cops has resumed production months after the show was dropped by the Paramount Network, police in Washington state announced last week. In June, the controversial police procedural reality show was canceled ahead of its 33rd season amid protests over the death of George Floyd and calls for police reform. A Spokane County Sheriff vehicle on Sept. 16, 2020. (Spokane County Sheriff) Production is again underway for the show in Spokane, Washington, where two Cops film crews have already ridden with Spokane County Sheriffs Office and Spokane Valley Deputies, said the Spokane County Sheriffs Office in a press release on Wednesday. The county has hosted the show previously and has "a longstanding relationship" with Langley Productions, the production company behind the show, the sheriffs office said. Although production has resumed in the United States, a spokesperson for Langley Productions told The Hollywood Reporter that the new episodes will only air in international territories to fulfill preexisting commitments. Langley Productions did not immediately respond to a request for comment from NBC News. We are pleased they have decided to return, highlighting the outstanding work our Deputies provide to all of you, the Spokane County Sheriff's Office said. The sheriffs office said the Cops crews began filming in September and will continue through the first week of November. Shows like ("Cops") highlight the work of law enforcement. They show, even for a few minutes, what the men and women out protecting our communities deal with day in and day out, said Sheriff Knezovich in the press release. Cops was canceled on June 9 after the Paramount Network postponed the premiere of its 33rd season. The move came amid nationwide protests against police brutality and racial injustice after the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis police custody. The protests reignited longstanding criticism of shows like "Cops," which detractors have called heavily edited and racially insensitive police propaganda. Around the same time Paramount Network dropped "Cops," A&E canceled their hit show Live PD, which also followed police around on patrols. A young black man in a suit says an emotional farewell to his family and drives solemnly to a forbidding, completely unfamiliar institution. Is he going to prison? No, hes joining the police force. Through the eyes of the young trainee, Leroy Logan (sensitively played by John Boyega), Oscar-winning writer-director Steve McQueen takes a despairing look at tensions between bad cops and the community they supposedly protect in Red, White and Blue, one of McQueens Small Axe series of five films about the Caribbean immigrant enclave in London in which he grew up. Made for the BBC and airing in the U.S. this fall on Amazon Prime Video, Red, White and Blue is premiering here at the New York Film Festival. This film overlaps thematically with the previous Small Axe offering, Mangrove, about an outraged restaurant owner who led a protest against police harassment that boiled over into a fight between activists and cops, and a trial for inciting riot that ended with acquittals. That film took place in 1970, but in Red, White and Blue, nothing has changed as we slip into the Eighties. McQueen opens with Logan a real person as a schoolboy being stopped and searched by police for no reason, and years later his father Kenneth (Steve Toussaint) gets beaten up by cops, also for no reason. To push for reform, Leroy decides to join the police. The higher echelons of the department are aware that there is unnecessary tension between the neighborhoods and the bobbies, and they welcome him into the ranks. Leroys father is, however, angry and bitter about this betrayal: hes in the process of trying to put the two cops who thrashed him on trial. Moreover, Leroy is a Ph.D.-holding research scientist and will be dropping several rungs in his fathers estimation by joining the constabulary. Leroy asserts that the only way to change the system is from within and frankly offers to his fellow rookies this remark: Im not here to make friends. In his class of recruits he is a standout, sure to be a success and to mend the frayed bonds of trust between his community and the coppers. Story continues Or not. In effect, Red, White and Blue, which is based on a true story, is a remake of Serpico with race rather than corruption creating the dividing line between one idealistic cop and all the others. As Al Pacinos Frank Serpico did in the Seventies, Boyegas Leroy finds groups of chattering cops falling silent when he walks into the room, gets left nasty anonymous messages, and learns that the loneliest of men is a cop who calls for backup but finds none forthcoming. McQueen paints a vivid portrait likely to resonate widely in this season of anger with the police, but, as with Mangrove, the film is more of a polemic than a story. At an hour and 20 minutes, it seems to end before its third act. As it is, Red, White and Blue merely reaffirms a depressing reality: When an entire system is sick, no single individual, no matter how brave or well-intentioned, is likely to be able to make much of a difference. Casually racist remarks in break rooms, supervisors who urge Leroy to think of the community he supposedly serves as a jungle, and unnecessarily harsh treatment of suspects clarify what Leroy is up against. As weve seen in many previous honest-cop movies, the hero must choose a side: Either try to police the police or learn not to raise a fuss at departmental misconduct. If you do the former, you wont last long as a cop. Moreover, youre putting your life in danger. This framing is at odds with the actual life of Leroy Logan, though: Far from finding nothing worthwhile about the police, he remained in their ranks for 30 years, during which time race relations in London improved significantly. This film, however, insists on striking a pose of utter futility that marks it as both biographically inaccurate and unsatisfying as drama. A movie needs to have a direction, and this one doesnt. Youll recall that Frank Serpicos story led to the creation of the Knapp Commission, which proved an important step forward in reducing corruption in the NYPD. As depicted in this movie, Leroy Logans story goes nowhere, though, and at the end McQueen has built up such a sense of hopelessness that he suggests we burn everything down and start over. This is a solution? It feels like mere pandering to the art-house audience of armchair radicals. Its an unserious proposal from a supposedly serious filmmaker. More from National Review As the pandemic wears on, a few distinct changes will impact the voting process in the Bay Area this year. But dont fret. With a couple of weeks left until Election Day, theres still time to prepare to partake in your civic duty and youll have a few options at your disposal, too. Our goal is to make this as easy as possible, Mayor London Breed said during a news conference outside of San Franciscos new outdoor Voting Center earlier this month. We know that this is a city that prides itself in making sure our voices are heard and were not going to let COVID stop us from making sure that you have access to vote in San Francisco at your convenience. Early voting began Oct. 5, and registered voters should have received their ballots in the mail that same week. Still haven't turned in your ballot? Heres what you need to know. Whats different about voting this year? The most significant change to this years voting process is that everyone will receive a mail-in ballot, regardless of whether theyve requested one or not. Voting by mail is encouraged, and you can find your nearest USPS mailbox here. San Francisco voters also have the option of visiting the citys new voting center, which is located in an outdoor tent at 99 Grove St. in front of the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium. It serves as a socially distanced alternative to the basement of City Hall, where many residents would typically congregate to cast their vote. The voting center is open on weekdays until Nov. 3 and began accepting ballots on weekends last weekend, Oct. 17. Can I still vote in person? San Franciscans can visit one of 588 designated polling locations throughout the city. Regardless of where you live in the Bay Area, you can find your nearest polling place here. The San Francisco Department of Elections asks that participants adhere to public health guidelines and will offer hand sanitizer, gloves and face masks to all voters upon arrival. You can check wait times at your designated polling station before you leave home. Its important to remember to bring your mail-in ballot with you to verify that you are not attempting to cast more than one ballot (which is illegal). If you already mailed in your ballot, theres no need to go to your polling place. What if I dont want to go to a polling place or mail in my ballot? Voters also have the option of visiting a nearby dropbox to securely cast their ballot. Find one thats convenient for you here. In San Francisco, public drop-off locations include the Chase Center, the Bayview/Linda Brooks-Burton Library, Excelsior Library or Portsmouth Square. You can also authorize another person a spouse, child, parent, roommate or relative to pick up a vote-by-mail ballot from the voting center and deliver it to you. To do so, you need to be registered to vote and the authorized person delivering your ballot must be at least 16 years old. What should I do if Im not registered to vote yet? If you are eligible to vote and missed the Oct. 19 registration deadline, you can visit the voting center or your polling place to register and cast a provisional ballot. This is the same as a normal ballot, but its placed in a special envelope before going into the ballot box and wont be counted until elections officials have confirmed you are registered to vote in your county (and that you havent voted already). Learn how to track the status of a provisional ballot in your county here. What should I do if my ballot is lost, damaged or never arrived? Registered voters in San Francisco will need to request a replacement ballot on or before Oct. 28 by visiting the Department of Elections' online Voter Portal or by calling (415) 554-4375. Elsewhere in the Bay Area, you can request a new one from your county elections office. If you make a mistake on your ballot when voting at a polling place, you have the right to request a new one from the poll workers. Im worried about USPS service delays. Will my mail-in ballot arrive on time? Your ballot must be postmarked on or before Nov. 3, but in order to accommodate for potential delays, they can arrive up to 17 days after Election Day to be counted. Ive been displaced from my home due to recent wildfires. How can I cast my vote? There are still options to vote safely. You can have your mail-in ballot sent to a friend or family member, a P.O. box, or your place of employment to do so, contact your local county elections office to change your mailing address. Learn more from the California Secretary of State here. Im unhoused or dont have a permanent address. Can I still vote? Yes. In lieu of an address, you can provide a description of a place you consider home. Potential examples include shelters, public parks, landmarks and/or cross streets. I'm sick or in the hospital and unable to pick up my ballot. What can I do? Beginning Oct. 28, San Francisco voters unable to travel to their polling place, mailbox or drop box because of illness, disability or COVID-19-related confinement may authorize another person to pick up and deliver their ballot to them. Complete the online form here or call (415) 554-4375. The individual authorized to pick up your ballot will receive it upon presenting the form at the voting center. Is it better to vote early or wait until Election Day this year? The Department of Elections advises voters to plan ahead. If you vote early in person or by mail, you will avoid possible wait times and crowded public spaces, and your ballot will be reviewed and counted well before Election Day, said director John Arntz. However, residents who wish to vote on Election Day are encouraged to drop off their ballot in a drop box or at one of the city's polling places, which are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. If you attempt to drop off your ballot on Election Day using a USPS mailbox, and the last pickup for that day has already occurred, your ballot will be postmarked late and will not be counted. Pickup times are posted on each mailbox be sure to check them. How can I make sure that my ballot has been counted? Visit Where's My Ballot? to check the status of your ballot and receive notifications via email, text, or phone. A Naver official explains the internet company's new design for its mobile application platform at Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul on Nov. 16, 2018. / Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul By Kim Jae-heun Naver has breached the fair trade act by limiting what a customer sees in search results to only what can be purchased with its payment system Naver Pay, the National Assembly Research Service (NARS) said Monday. The legislative research agency added this case could also be seen as an act of monopoly power abuse. Naver is a dominant player in the local search engine market with 74.7 percent of people in the country using the service as of 2017. Currently, when a customer searches for a certain product on Naver, it does not show products that can be purchased with other payment systems like SSG Pay, Samsung Pay or Kakao Pay. The NARS sees this as a wrongful way of attracting customers from its competitors' platforms and restricting their opportunity to pay with their systems. Rep. Chun Jae-soo of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) requested the legislative search agency to look closely into the matter. "Naver should not limit customers' choice to pay with other companies' systems by abusing its dominant position in the market under the pretext of people's convenience," Rep. Chun said. "This is a big matter as it can have a negative impact on the whole online platform market and customers' freedom of choice, thus the Korea Fair Trade Commission should look into it deeply." Naver refused to comment. The internet giant has recently been under scrutiny by the top antitrust watchdog for a similar case alleging it positioned products that could be paid for with its own payment system on the top page of the search results at one of its online shopping platforms, Naver Store Farm. Naver denied its fixing of the search results, saying its algorithm system was based on artificial intelligence, which exposed the products randomly. The KFTC is yet to release the outcome of its inspection, but the IT firm could receive punishment ranging from a mere recommendation to improve the business behavior to a penalty, or even be ordered to withdraw its online shopping business at worst. It is highly likely that Naver will no longer give preferential treatment to its own payment system. Last month, Naver was fined 1.03 billion won for abuse of market dominance on its real estate service platform. It restricted its partner realtors from providing information to customers. This led the antitrust watchdog to reveal its plan on Sept. 28 to propose a new bill against platform operators to prevent them from engaging in unfair conduct when demand for online services was skyrocketing. Not only internet firms like Naver and Kakao or e-commerce giants like Coupang and eBay Korea will be subjected to the new regulation, but also food delivery players like Woowa Brothers and Delivery Hero. The online platform operators must issue a written form of contract with their business partners and they cannot take action to restrict newcomers from entering the market. Those who breach the regulation will be fined up to double the economic damage that occurred. For the first time since the standoff between Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to come face-to-face virtually at the BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) annual summit to be held on November 17. IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russia's President Vladimir Putin, left, and Chinas President Xi Jinping during the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan in 2019. Photograph: Sputnik/Mikhail Klimentyev/Kremlin via Reuters Russia, the chair of the five-nation BRICS, announced on Monday that the annual summit of the bloc will be held on November 17 via video conference. The BRICS is known as an influential bloc that represents over 3.6 billion people, or half of the world's population. The BRICS countries have a combined GDP of $16.6 trillion. 'The theme of the meeting of the leaders of BRICS countries is 'BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth',' the Russian government said in a statement. Both Prime Minister Modi and President Xi have attended all summit meetings of the BRICS in the last few years. Modi and Xi are attending the virtual summit, said a diplomat, involved in the arrangements for the multilateral event. Last year, the BRICS summit had taken place in Brazilia, the capital city of Brazil. Modi and Xi also held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the summit. India and China are locked in a bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh since early May that has significantly strained the bilateral ties. Both sides have held a series of diplomatic and military talks to resolve the row. However, no breakthrough has been achieved to end the standoff. The Russian statement also said, 'this year the five countries have continued close strategic partnership on all the three major pillars: peace and security, economy and finance, cultural and people-to-people exchanges.' Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin, said despite the current global situation due to the spread of the coronavirus infection, the activities under Russia's BRICS chairmanship were consistent. "Since January, more than 60 events have been organized, including via videoconferencing. The BRICS Summit will be the jewel-in-the-crown event of the Russian BRICS chairmanship, which will provide impetus for further strengthening cooperation together with our partners to ensure the well-being of BRICS countries," Kobyakov said. In the first two parts of our serialisation of his new book, distinguished royal historian Robert Lacey revealed how Harry and Meghan's behaviour left the Royal Family 'hopping' mad, and Harry's fury when William asked his uncle, Earl Spencer, to suggest he slow down his marriage plans. But, as today's extract reveals, the roots of the rift between the brothers actually took hold long before Meghan came on the scene... as did their own psychological pain, which began in early childhood... Back in 1992, both brothers had to cope with their parents' conflict going public, appearing in lurid detail on TV screens and newspaper front pages after the publication of Andrew Morton's explosive book, Her True Story based largely on Diana's own taped testimony. It was a deliberate and aggressive exposure of the family's bad blood. The mother who felt sure she was so devoted to her children had months to think about the effect that her revelations might have on them. But she'd gone ahead anyway, disclosing how she had tried to commit suicide when she was three months pregnant which effectively said to William: 'I tried to kill us both when I was carrying you by throwing myself down the stairs.' Ten weeks after Morton's book was serialised, the DianaJames Gilbey tapes were published, revealing to the world that the princess answered to the name of 'Squidgy'; that Gilbey made her go 'all jellybags'; and that life with Prince Charles was 'real torture'. The roots of the rift between Harry and William actually took hold long before Meghan came on the scene 'Squidgygate' was nothing, however, when compared with the ear-nose-and-toe-cringing embarrassment of 'Camillagate' the transcript of Harry and William's father talking on the phone to his mistress. 'I want to feel my way along you, all over you and up and down you and in and out. . . Particularly in and out,' he said, in one of their exchanges. Next came Charles's admission in 1994 to his relationship with Camilla in a TV interview with Jonathan Dimbleby, followed by Anna Pasternak's sensational account of their mother's love affair with James Hewitt. The two princes were particularly infuriated by the Hewitt revelations. They'd spent long hours on horseback with the man they'd called Uncle James, and had driven down with him and Diana quite regularly to stay in Devon for breaks with his mother Shirley. The following year, 13-year-old William saw Diana accomplish her final flanking movement in her media battle with his father. Support: William helps his younger brother learn to walk in 1985. Seven years later, they had to contend with their parents' marriage woes going public In her November 1995 interview with Martin Bashir on BBC's Panorama, which he watched alone in his housemaster's study, she talked of 'three of us in this marriage'. But it was his mother's candid admission that there had come to be four in the marriage that she'd fallen in love with James Hewitt which tipped the teenager over the edge. Diana spoke of 'betrayal', and that was exactly what William felt. Their mother had clearly seen how upset both her sons had been when Charles had confessed his intimacy with Camilla on TV the previous year. Yet here she was, doing the very same thing. When William's housemaster returned to his study, he found the prince slumped on the sofa, his eyes red with tears. And when Diana telephoned an hour later, William refused to speak to her. Two days later, the distraught princess told her faith-healer Simone Simmons what had happened. William had been 'so angry with her,' said Diana. He had broken out in one of the notorious rages that would, from time to time, scar his teenage years and young adult life. Diana's candid admission that there had come to be four in the marriage that she'd fallen in love with James Hewitt tipped William over the edge. 'All hell broke loose. He was furious . . . that she had spoken badly of his father, that she had mentioned Hewitt . . . He started shouting and crying and, when she tried to put her arms around him, he shoved her away.' The next day, William apologised to his mother for his bad temper, and presented her with a bunch of flowers. But Diana felt some irretrievable damage had been done. 'What have I done?' Diana kept asking Simone, as though she finally realised the pain and long-term emotional damage her bitter public feuding had inflicted on her sons. 'What have I done to my children?' By the time Harry joined William at Eton in 1998 a year after Diana's death life and tragedy had forged the brothers into a mutually supportive companions. They enjoyed two of the most closely interlinked years of their lives. William had established a close and trusted circle of Eton friends, and his brother was invited to join them. But quite a few of his expanding social circle were a full two years older than him making it likely that the 14-year-old would be introduced to temptations ahead of his years. And Harry's bright self-confidence was misleading he was not as grown-up as he appeared. By the time Harry joined William at Eton in 1998 a year after Diana's death life and tragedy had forged the brothers into a mutually supportive companions For security reasons, Prince Charles had a bomb-proof shelter constructed in the cellar of Highgrove, and he allowed his sons to adapt it into a disco-rumpus room 'Club H', a black-painted dungeon discotheque scattered with scruffy sofas, where Harry and William could entertain their school friends during their holidays. It featured a well-stocked bar here was the first temptation for the young Harry along with a state-of-the-art sound system that made every floor of the 200-year-old building quiver. Club H turned Highgrove into quite the hot spot when Dad happened to be away which was an ever more frequent occurrence. Charles's priority at the time was his campaign to get Britain to accept his relationship with Camilla Parker Bowles. In his absence, 16-year-old William already a steady drinker and his younger brother 'relaxed' intensively. Club H had been very much William's inspiration, with his older friends largely setting the social pace for Harry. If Prince Charles did happen to be at home, the two brothers and their friends could all pile out together to The Rattlebone Inn in the village of Sherston five miles away. Friends recall 'no-speaks' and quite a serious rift between the two brothers after Harry's Nazi uniform shame Of course, it is illegal in British pubs to sell alcohol directly to anyone below the age of 18, but the landlord of the Rattlebone turned a blind eye to under-age drinking and the inn also allowed its young royal patrons to engage in afterhours 'lock-ins', where cannabis was smoked. The cars of royal bodyguards outside meant local police were unlikely to stage a raid. So these were the years when Prince Harry still an impressionable teenager started to drink alcohol in serious quantities. He loved to swill it down like his brother, reported friends. And some of the Rattlebone circle also began sampling exotic substances. This can hardly have been a shock to Harry, who'd already earned the nickname 'Hash Harry' at Eton, on account of the smoky aroma that often emanated from his room. But a quiet word of warning in the right ear might have avoided what happened next. By August 2000, William, now 18, had left Eton and headed off to Belize for his pre-university gap-year adventure. Lonely and left to his own devices, Harry began getting stoned to excess, continuing his pot-smoking throughout William's absence in 2001, until someone a member of the Highgrove staff, it is thought told Prince Charles what was going on. The timing of what happened next is confused. But it's known that sometime in June or July 2001 several weeks before Charles was made aware of his son's problem in August or September the Prince of Wales's former equerry Mark Dyer had escorted Harry on a low-key educational visit to a rehabilitation centre in Peckham, South-East London. There, the young prince spent a few hours talking to former heroin and cocaine addicts, who also briefed their visitor on 'the consequences of taking drugs'. But when the News of the World broke the story in January 2002 'Harry's Drugs Shame' it was implied that Prince Charles had organised this rehab visit after the incident, specifically as some sort of therapy for Harry's drug-taking in order to provide his son with a 'short, sharp shock'. This alteration of the timetable re-wrote history, turning a narrative that might have suggested parental out-of-touchness into a fable of fatherly redemption, with the News of the World actually praising Charles's 'decisive intervention' in an editorial headed 'Courage of a Wise and Loving Dad'. Meghan was not the original factor in Prince Harry's decision to get shot of his family in January 2020 This masterpiece of damage limitation had been the work of Charles's assistant private secretary Mark Bolland. But whose reputation was actually saved? Some newspapers suggested it was William who should get the credit for intervening at his father's request to 'save' Prince Harry. Harry had certainly lost his way in 2000 and 2001 when William disappeared from his life to pursue his gap year. But it was William who had opened the first bottles behind the well-stocked bar in the cellar of Highgrove and had led the group forays to The Rattlebone Inn after hours. It was William who was the blue-eyed glamour boy at the centre of the so-called 'Glossy Posse' that surrounded the young princes, pouring out the drinks and inspiring all the revels that would coax his younger brother a full two years and three months younger and still a child into errant and self-destructive ways. In short, it was William who'd been the Lord of Misrule and the driving spirit behind the entire seductive fantasy of Club H. Yet William and also his father moved seamlessly on from 'Harry's Drugs Shame' towards the grand and glittering roles that the royal dynasty and public opinion required of them. Nothing seriously discreditable was ever written about the future William V the 'King of the Castle'. It was Harry who was cast as the 'dirty rascal'. Wills would shout and Charles meekly submit Prince Harry has frankly confessed to having a blazing temper and as for his elder brother, well, he has proved no Sweet William when roused. In the years following her 2005 marriage to Prince Charles, Williams new stepmother confided her surprise to her family and to her close friends at this unexpected side to Prince Charming The boys got a temper! Camilla had been horrified by the ranting and raving that William could unleash on occasions against her husband letting rip with no apparent inhibition in her presence. The rows had been earth-shattering, by her account, with William doing the shouting and Charles submitting meekly. As shes described these distressing episodes, William would hold nothing back. He could summon up a wrath to match the importance that he attaches to his challenging role as the future king. In Williams kingdom, everything had to be perfect and if his father has failed in some way to live up to his elder sons elevated view of what being royal entails, the young man would release his fury. Nor, it seems, does Charles measure up in his elder sons eyes as a wonderful parent. In 2017, when marking the 20th anniversary of Dianas death, William proved fiercely uncompromising in his unwillingness to make any conciliatory remark about Charless fathering of his motherless sons. Royal PR aides begged the young Prince to give his father some sort of nod when talking to journalists before the screening of the ITV documentary Diana, Our Mother, but he flatly refused. William simply wasnt prepared to pretend that the workaholic, ever-worrying Charles had made good on all the hands-on parenting that hed promised. It should be stressed that in recent times and particularly since the adjustments that the Royal Family had to make in 2019 and 2020 in the wake of their disagreements and the departure of Harry father and elder son have grown much closer together. Prince Charles and Prince William now clearly appreciate the need to work closely together for the future of the monarchy whether that proves to be a brotherly reconciliation next year or some regulated and agreed form of effectively permanent division. Their father-son spats are said to be episodes in the past. Advertisement In this culturally distorted scenario, it was evidently the predetermined function the very destiny of the younger brother to carry the can for his 'exemplary' elder sibling. But while Harry might have been forced by the media and public expectations into such a delinquent, 'court jester' stereotype at the age of 17, he was not going to accept it for ever. In January 2005, the brothers went down to Maud's Cotswold Costumes to select their outfits for a friend's 'Colonials and Natives' fancy-dress party. William opted in the end to go as a lion or was it a leopard? with tight black leggings and furry paws. As for Harry, he chose a khaki-coloured uniform that, he later explained, he selected for the sandiness of the shirt: he thought it complemented his colouring. The trouble was that the shirt's left sleeve was encircled by a bright red and white armband bearing a stark, black Nazi swastika. If there was one incident in the youth of Prince Harry that would be taken to represent his wild, foolish and totally unjudged side, it was that Nazi costume. A sneaky fellow guest used their mobile phone to snap a photograph, and a few days later, there was Harry parading on the front page of a newspaper under the headline 'Harry the Nazi'. He apologised, but there was public outrage. Many observers, however, missed the point: obviously the 20-year-old Harry wasn't really a neo-Nazi, as one Labour MP alleged. The lad was naughty, not a Nazi. Most clearly of all, we know that Harry chose his costume in conjunction with his elder brother the future King William V, then 22, who had laughed all the way back to Highgrove with the younger sibling he was supposed to be mentoring and then onwards to the party together. But did a single commentator remark on Prince William's role in the debacle? It was the function of the elder brother to be perfect in the public eye, whether he truly was or was not, and it was the function of the younger one to make the rest of us laugh or complain or feel disapproving and at all events to make us feel thoroughly superior to the poor, clueless kid. This was the role the cruel and imprisoning stereotype, a collective shrug of the shoulders that all of us shaped for 'dear old Harry' over the years. But in January 2005, following the 'Colonials and Natives' costume fiasco, the young prince began re-evaluating his elder brother's involvement and the unfairness of William's subsequent emergence smelling of roses. It made Harry feel resentful and even alienated. Popular expectations and the entire royal system functionally condemned the 'spare' to an inferior role. Friends recall 'no-speaks' and quite a serious rift between the two brothers at this time as there had been after the 'Drugs Shame' of 2002, when Harry had first started to realise the price of playing the monarchy's institutional scapegoat. Every decent soap opera requires a glittering hero and a comical fall guy, and those were the opposing roles that popular culture had come to allot to William and Harry. 'For the first time, their relationship really suffered and they barely spoke,' said one former aide. 'Harry resented the fact that William got away so lightly.' Meghan was not the original factor in Prince Harry's decision to get shot of his family in January 2020. He already had very solid reasons to get shot of the rest of us and our smiling assumptions of the inferior and actually rather demeaning role that he should be grateful to play. Truly a 'spare' in more than one sense. Two little boys who were left scarred and adrift: Princess Diana fired Princes William and Harry's 'surrogate mother' out of jealousy... sparking years of psychological problems, new book claims As fervent crusaders for mental health, both Prince William and Prince Harry have testified movingly about their own psychological pain, talking graphically and publicly of the mental health problems theyve suffered in the past. But the pain they describe is always related to the early death of their mother. Nothing before that. It is as if Dianas death in 1997 provides them with an alibi and a cut-off point. According to the princes, thats when all their youthful heartache and subsequent problems started. But what about their parents disastrous marriage and the impact it had upon their feelings and emotional stability? Or the sad story of how their closeness to each other was damaged by the consequent royal and public expectations in their teens and early 20s? The fact is that William and Harrys psychological problems started long before their mother was killed in a crash in a Paris underpass. After the birth of Prince William, Diana hired 42-year-old Barbara Barnes as his nanny. Shed been recommended on the basis of 14 years loyal service to Princess Margarets lady-in-waiting, Anne Glenconner, whose five children Barnes had nursed with intelligence and care. In her only brief contact with the Press, Barnes said she saw no special problems in bringing up a royal baby I treat all children as individuals . . . Im here to help the princess, not take over. That turned out not to be the case, since Barnes rapidly discovered that she had to serve as nanny to her 21-year-old employer as much as to her offspring. Suffering from bulimia and the accompanying self-harm, Diana had reached the stage of slashing her arms and wrists. Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, with their sons Prince William and Prince Harry in the wild flower meadow at Highgrove The nanny soon found herself bandaging the princesss bloodied limbs, and stepped in firmly to assert control. Barbara guarded the nursery floor like the Vatican, recalled one member of the Kensington Palace staff. Trays would be grabbed and doors would be shut. It was her kingdom. The brothers tended to wake with the dawn, so Baba, as they called her, would bring them into her bed most mornings to play together, before giving them their breakfast and passing them on to their parents when they awoke. Diana would then take over if she didnt have work to do. But the princesss time was more and more occupied by the charities and humanitarian causes for which she would become famous. She also had an increasingly active social life, meeting girlfriends (boyfriends came later) to discuss the deteriorating state of her marriage, and she also continued to accompany Charles on his major foreign tours. All this meant that Baba spent more and more time with the boys, and became something of a surrogate mother, particularly to William whod been her solitary charge for two years before the appearance of Harry. She taught both boys to walk, talk and read. She comforted them when they awoke crying in the night. In the absence of their parents, Baba even took her charges away on their own family holiday without parents to Scotland and the Isles of Scilly where she set the agenda every day as any mother would. But less admiring observers felt that Barnes was getting too possessive with her boys and the princess came to share that suspicion. Matters came to a head at the end of 1986, when Barnes took a holiday to attend the birthday party of her former employer, the ever-flamboyant Lord Glenconner, on his Caribbean island of Mustique. There, the nanny was photographed alongside celebrities such as Raquel Welch and Princess Margaret to the intense irritation of Diana. Baba had got above herself, Diana decided, and she made that clear when the nanny returned to work. During the Sandringham Christmas break of 19867, Barnes resumed her daily routine with the boys as usual. But Diana cold-shouldered the nanny, sharing scarcely a word with her and sending her to Coventry until the family got back to Highgrove, where Diana brusquely informed her that it would be better, as she put it, if Barnes departed. One weekend, she just wasnt there any more, recalled Highgrove housekeeper Wendy Berry. Diana had given instructions that the nannys bags should be packed and all trace of her removed. No one saw her again. But less admiring observers felt that Barnes (pictured with Prince William) was getting too possessive with her boys and the princess came to share that suspicion Surrogate mother to Prince William for over four years and to Prince Harry for more than two, Baba Barnes had not been allowed to say the slightest word of farewell to her charges. She was forbidden even to send them a postcard. So far as the boys were concerned, she just vanished into thin air. Following the death of Diana in 1997, people remarked on how well the two young princes reacted to the unjust and unexpected removal of a mother figure from their lives surprised, bewildered and distraught though they were. In fact, ten years earlier, theyd had a little practice. From the ages of four and two, William and Harry grew up with two parents who werent sharing the same bed, who were more inclined to talk to the Press than to each other, and who were engaging in patterns of systematic adultery and deceit. They were also engaged in bitter warfare. Charles and Diana had never hidden from William that he would one day be king. And as the rows between his parents intensified, he came to find consolation in the knowledge of his weird and formidable destiny. Many little boys fantasise about brandishing the unimaginable powers of a wizard or a pirate chief. Well, William really was going to be a king, and he could see from the deference already accorded him how, when that day came, hed be able to exercise the authority that he could already observe his grandmother and father enjoying. This seems to have given the challenged youngster the strength he needed to endure the pain and confusion that any child would feel with their family crumbling bled around them. By the autumn of 1988, when William was six, people noticed a new cautiousness and sense of purpose about the young prince. The year before as Prince Charles later publicly admitted his parents marriage had irretrievably broken down, and Charles had resumed his full-scale intimacy with Camilla. As for Diana, in 1988 shed started her five-year love affair with the Life Guards officer Major James Hewitt. Williams response to all this was to become more reflective. The trauma of his parents marriage had matured him early, forcing him to abandon the egotism of infancy, to look beyond himself and to develop a precocious sense of duty. Plan ahead to make sure this years Thanksgiving holiday is safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, Canadas top public health officer urged on Sunday as case counts continued to soar in several parts of the country. Dr. Theresa Tam said indoor holiday gatherings of family or friends should be kept small, especially in provinces such as Quebec Ontario where infection rates are highest. Weve got some serious planning to do, Tam said in a statement released nearly a week before the national holiday on Oct. 12. Not the carefree planning we had last Thanksgiving but rather some ingenious Canadian COVID-19 holiday-hacks that will ensure there are no viruses invited or passed around at our gatherings. Tam said people celebrating outdoors should follow physical distancing guidelines and encouraged people to avoid sharing food and other objects during their meals. She also suggested that Canadians opt for virtual Thanksgiving dinners instead of in-person gatherings. Her advice comes as new COVID-19 case numbers continued their upward trajectory in several parts of the country, most notably in central Canada, where tighter restrictions have been put in place in recent days to try to prevent the spread of the virus. Quebec reported more than 1,000 new diagnoses for the third straight day on Sunday, while Ontario has recorded more than 500 cases every day for the past week. The Quebec government announced plans to move three towns in the Gaspesie region to its highest COVID-19 alert level on Monday, and urged residents to minimize their contacts with people outside their homes. In Ontario, stricter limits on restaurants, bars and fitness facilities took effect in three main hot spots Toronto, Peel Region, and Ottawa this weekend in a bid to halt the surging case numbers in those regions. The province also has announced other measures aimed at addressing a testing backlog, all of which take effect this week. Manitoba said Sunday that multiple people tested positive for COVID-19 in Little Grand Rapids First Nation, after it said they attended events at a recreation centre late last month. The province said the chief and council of the eastern Manitoba community have ordered residents to stay home and only go out for medical appointments and testing. If essential supplies are needed, only one person should venture out to collect them. Manitoba also reported one new death attributed to the virus, a man in his 50s in the Winnipeg region, who became the 23rd person to die from COVID-19 in the province. Health officials in Prince Edward Island identified two more cases in that province, attributing both to unspecified travel outside the region. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Heather Morrison said the patients, both men, have been self-isolating since arriving on the Island. Meanwhile, Canadians struggling with the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic will be able to start applying on Monday for two new benefits available from the federal government after legislation creating them was rushed through the House of Commons last week. The first is a caregiver benefit targeting Canadians with young children forced out of school or day-care settings due to the virus. It provides $500 per week for up to 26 weeks to those with children under 12 who cant work more than half-time due to pandemic-related caregiving responsibilities. The benefit, which is only payable to one worker in a household, is also available to those who cant work because their children or a family member is sick, has to quarantine or is at high risk of COVID-19. The second benefit is a two-week paid sick leave worth up to $1,000 for workers who cant work more than half the week because they have contracted COVID-19 or have an underlying condition that puts them more at risk of the illness. Starting on Oct. 12, Canadians will also be able to start applying for a third program which replaces the $500-per-week Canada Emergency Response Benefit that has formed the main support for Canadians unable to work due to COVID-19. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 4, 2020. Mumbai, Oct 5 : Actress Payal Ghosh, who has accused filmmaker Anurag Kashyap of sexual harassment, has written to Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh seeking Y-level security for her lawyer and her. Payal's lawyer Nitin Satpute took his his unverified Twitter account on Monday and shared the letter, which mentions that the accused is "roaming freely" and has not been arrested yet. The actress claimed that the accused might cause harm to her, adding that her life is not safe. Sharing the letter, advocate Satpute wrote: "Today 5/10/2020 Letter issued to @AnilDeshmukhNCP for Security for @iampayalghosh and @Nitin_Satpute." Payal recently demanded that she be given Y-category security during a meeting with Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. While Kashyap has denied all allegations, Payal claimed the filmmaker lied before the police. The actress has also demanded narco analysis, lie detector and polygraph test be performed on the filmmaker. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Entering the US online market in August, Rarekind, the winner of Allure Magazine's "Best of Beauty Award" and "Editor's Pick" in Korea, presents an overwhelmingly glamorous glitter for those who are fed up with the usual blandness of other kinds of glitter. The 5 shades and shadows come in a shimmering finish that will make eyes pop. When the glittery shadows are applied to cheek bones and collarbones, their light and natural glow can make entire face look lifted. As a brand with environmentally conscious, the new eyeshadow collection has been formulated without any animal oil, animal ingredients and any ingredients that have been tested on animals. Rarekind Ready To Crush Shadow 5 colors available-01 New Rules, 02 Lucky Punch, 03 My Match, 04 Straight, and 05 Hit No caking sparkling glitter As much sparkle as a user wants Long-lasting glitter Rarekind Ready To Crush Shadows are now available on US Amazon. About Rarekind Rarekind is a professional color makeup brand launched by Korea's leading beauty company Amorepacific in 2018. The brand is for those who have outstanding attraction, uniqueness and who can deliver their own story with compelling identity. Rarekind aims to show "makeup doesn't have to be boring or neat -- it can be playful and expressive." For more information: Official Site: www.rarekind.com Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/rarekind_official/ SOURCE Amorepacific Related Links http://www.rarekind.com/ Representative Chip Roy (R., Texas) called on Texas attorney general Ken Paxton to resign on Monday over allegations of bribery and other federal offenses. Seven top aides to Paxton wrote in a letter on October 1 that they believed the attorney general is violating federal and/or state law, including prohibitions relating to improper influence, abuse of office, bribery, and other potential criminal offenses. The letter was did not outline specific offenses. Paxton responded to the allegations by accusing the writers of attempting to undermine a criminal investigation into members of his office. The complaint filed against Attorney General Paxton was done to impede an ongoing investigation into criminal wrongdoing by public officials including employees of this office, Paxtons office said in a statement to the American-Statesman, which broke the story. However, Representative Roy criticized Paxtons alleged conduct on Monday. For the good of the people of Texas and the extraordinary public servants who serve at the Office of the Attorney General, Attorney General Ken Paxton must resign, Roy wrote on his Facebook page. Any grace for him to resolve differences and demonstrate if the allegations are false was eliminated by his choice instead to attack the very people entrusted, by him, to lead the office some of whom I know well and whose character are beyond reproach. Roy is currently in a close race with Democratic rival Wendy Davis for the 21st congressional district in Texas. The district has elected just three different representatives since 1979, all of them Republicans. This is not the first time Paxton has been accused of criminal conduct. The attorney general was indicted on felony securities fraud charges in 2015, and has not yet been brought to trial. More from National Review No one really knows what to expect for the industry in coming months. Until COVID is cured or gone, our industry doesnt know what the future will be, Weimer said. She is continually in touch with others in the industry across the country. Places opened, but then theyre starting to close again as COVID increased, Weimer said. Will this fall turn out to be like March? Or April? No one has been in a situation like this, when you never know when youre going to come out of it. And theyre predicting years for our industry to recover, Weimer said. Staff hasnt been laid off or furloughed. Were a very slim staff to begin with, she said. The agency applied for a grant to offset some of its operational expenses to keep staff longer, Weimer said. But other spending has been reduced drastically. Weve canceled everything. We canceled our grant program. We canceled our contractual services, Peters said. SPOKANE, Wash. Agricultural officials in Washington state said Friday they are trying to find and destroy a nest of Asian giant hornets also known as murder hornets amid concerns they could kill honey bees crucial for pollinating raspberry and blueberry crops. Evidence of six of the hornets were found over the last week near the town of Blaine in Whatcom County, the Washington state Department of Agriculture told reporters. The number of hornets found nearly double the previous number discovered in the state would indicate a nest has been established in the area, the agency said. One of the hornets was trapped alive, a first for the agency, spokeswoman Karla Salp said. "We believe we are dealing with a nest,'' said Sven-Erik Spichiger, a department entomologist. We hope to locate the nest in a couple of weeks and eradicate it. The Asian giant hornet the worlds largest at 2 inches can decimate entire hives of honeybees and deliver painful stings to humans. Farmers in the northwestern U.S. depend on those honey bees to pollinate many crops. The invasive insect found in China, Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Vietnam and other Asian countries was first documented in Washington state late last year. Officials have said its not known how it arrived. Washington and the Canadian province of British Columbia are the only places the hornets have been found in North America. There have been reports from Asia of the hornets stinging people so often they have died. Despite their name, the hornets kill at most a few dozen people a year in Asia, and experts say it is probably far less. Hornets, wasps and bees typically found in the United States kill an average of 62 people a year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said. The real threat from the hornets is their devastating attacks on honeybee hives, and the time of year when they attack those hives is nearing, Spichiger said. He called it the slaughter phase. A state scientist managed to trap one live Asian giant hornet near Blaine in recent days and officials tried to glue a radio tag to it so they could follow the hornet back to its nest, Spichiger said. But the glue did not dry fast enough, the radio tag fell off and the hornet ultimately could not fly, Spichiger said. Scientists hope to capture another live hornet and try again. People living in the Blaine area have been reporting sightings of the hornets to agricultural officials. There is also evidence that the giant hornets are also attacking native wasps and hornets, Spichiger said. Fifteen of the hornets have been found since they were first seen in the state in 2019, the agriculture department said. -- The Associated Press Scene 1: Its Sunday afternoon, around one oclock, and a group of a dozen or so people log onto a video call from their apartments. Occasionally someones cat will walk into the frame, obscuring the camera, or a deliveryman will ring the buzzer, interrupting the flow of conversation. But mostly, what we see of each other are scenes of domestic mundanity: the pillow on the bed, the picture behind the couch, the dog napping in the background, the sunlight pouring in from the window, all framed in neat rectangular boxes. This is the form in which nearly all socializing takes place. Scene 2: My interlocutor, Helga, tells me over Zoom that if you have to be cooped up somewhere, New York City has its relative merits: I wasnt as isolated. I got to be human every day, a little bit. You know, you go to the bodega in your pajamas, and you run into people, she explains. Its gotta perk you up. We laugh about the way the bodegas resident cat always tends to comfort you; it may be the only living thing you speak to for days. * * * * * These scenes could be dispatches from a socially-distanced New York City, but they are not: drawn from fieldwork conducted in 2019, they animate the ways that one community has lived for years. Quarantine blanketed the city a year lateran unprecedented move, yet one strikingly reminiscent of my time conducting virtual ethnography with people with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Though shrouded in etiological unknowns and met with frequent stigma, ME/CFS debilitates previously healthy people such that one-quarter of them become completely bedbound and a majority are unemployed (Institute of Medicine 2015). Its hallmark symptom is post-exertional malaise, which means that activities of daily living like trips to the grocery store must be carefully planned out, usually only taking place a couple of times a month. Its patient community is characterized by a robust online presencewith social media and Zoom enabling a tenuous form of biosociality (Rabinow 2008) across physical distance and despite the fact that most days, they cannot leave their homes. My research takes place in an ME/CFS patient community in New York City and with the patient-activist organization ME Progress (a pseudonym). The proverbial city that never sleeps, New York is permeated with a tacit acceptance of cultures of exhaustion that valorize work and hyperactivity. The city is characterized by inaccessible public transit and architecture, yet also defined by the lively worlds that emerge when bodies live in close proximity to one another. These facets make New York a salient place to study not only the social experiment of quarantine, but also the lives of people who have already been living this isolation due to a misunderstood, little-supported, yet profoundly debilitating illness. Though many recounted to me the hustled lifestyle they once lived as quintessential type-A go-getters before getting sick, people with ME/CFS represent a side of the city not often associated with New York. Theyve been sapped of energy. Theyre rarely able to take public transit. Embodying the fast-walking, fast-talking New York stereotype is foreclosed by cognitive lapses and generalized fogginess. And contrary to the constant mobility of the city, of bodies that constantly encounter other bodies, their social lives are often centered around virtual interactions through social media and video calls made from bed. People with ME/CFS have long been self-described canaries in the coal mine. Met with dismissal by prevailing understandings of medicine, they foreshadow epidemics of chronic illness to come. But these canaries have a second valence: they anticipated the social isolation generalized to the currently able-bodied public in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. A lively, ongoing conversation among disability communities on Twitter is about the many lessons COVID-19 has taught able-bodied peopleput quite aptly by Kyla Schuller: COVID-19 is teaching the ableds what the disabled and chronically ill already know: your ability to leave the house is a privilege that can be lost at any time. In real ways, people with chronic illnessesand especially people with ME/CFS, for whom the defining characteristic of their disease is how it drains themare some of the only people for whom COVID-19 has changed very little about their day-to-day lives. As the weeks of shelter-in-place turned into months, the world scrambled to maintain a tenuous socialitya semblance of normalcy that was never quite the same. Minuscule pauses in Zoom conversations, staring at faces for hours yet not making reciprocal eye contact, amounted to what would soon be given a name: Zoom fatigue. The dream of remote work carrying on as normalat least for certain classes of workerswas never quite founded. Socializing over FaceTime with loved ones never quite scratched the itch for relationality. Dating apps continued, yet sex changed. There was something uncanny here in the full Freudian sense: a discomfort with a social world that was both familiar and strange, an unsettled feeling induced by something concealed (heimlich) that got unconsciously revealed (unheimlich). Quarantine reveals the importance of what was missing from this newly-pervasive form of socialization: bodies. When Helga says that she got to be human every day, a little bit through encounters with other bodies on the streets of Brooklyn, she evokes a phenomenological insight about personhood, with ethical implications. Writing about solitary confinement in supermax prisons, Lisa Guenther (2013) compellingly reminds us that subjectivity is not a point but a hinge. Guenther argues that solitary confinement destroys the human itself, a kind of death-in-life. Human subjectivity, our relation to ourselves, is sustained only through relations with others (xiii). In this way, being solitarily confined is not just about loneliness, but will cause me to lose myself by being confined to myself (Ibid.). Certainly, I am not equating the lives of people with ME/CFS to those who are incarcerated. But quarantine has brought to lifefor an able-bodied publicthe fact that there can be many forms of solitary confinement. In the case of people with ME/CFS, it is a form they have lived for years and years. I want to use these insights gleaned from quarantine as a launching point to take up bodies as a serious though mostly unspoken structure of patient movements. This approaches considers how bodies scale the ways disease entities are successfully taken up, or not, by Western biomedicine and its surrounding infrastructures. Focusing on impairment has often been uncomfortable, even taboo, for disability studies. But its precisely the same unheimlich qualities of quarantine that prompt this writing: bodiestheir messiness, their necessity, their debility and capacity (Puar 2017)constitute the taboo revealed when we try to dig deep into the uncanniness of social distance and life in isolation. Here, I am going to stay with one such facet of the embodied experiences of patient-activists with ME/CFS: brain fog, the name people with fibromyalgia and ME/CFS in particular give to a cognitive impairment characterized by delayed recall, forgetfulness, and disrupted information processing. But brain fog is not only cognitive. There is no Cartesian split here. For one thing, brain fog is frequently catalyzed by the taxing work of just trying to hold a disarranged body upright, such that mind and body become materially inseparable (Ross et al. 2013). But brain fogs fleshy materialities also mobilize socialities and structure activist worlds. Rather than envision impairment as lacksomething disability studies warns againstmy aim is to point to brain fogs generative qualities in disability world-making (Ginsburg and Rapp 2013). What would happen if we were to unwit patient activism, to unmoor it from paradigms of intentionality, conscious effort, and goal-directed deliberation? What would it mean to stay instead with brain fogginess, whole-body exhaustion, and cognitive lapses? These bodily experiences characterize the fabric of everyday life for people with ME/CFS, who forge socialities within these conditions. These experiences are not occasional, peripheral blips in their daily lives, and staying at home is not a new, post-COVID exception; for many, it has been the rule for decades. They are at home with brain fog and well-acquainted with a kind of biosociality that takes place from their individual couches. As phenomenological anthropology would remind us, social worlds and thus patient activism always take place within these bodies (Desjarlais and Throop 2011; Mattingly 2017). The ME/CFS activists in ME Progress New York are inspired by the performative, and immensely successful, actions of AIDS activists, whose legacy provides a longstanding model for disease activism, particularly in the context of New York City. Yet, they also know that such taxing modes of politicking are out of reach. As Tina, a middle-aged white woman with ME/CFS, longtime AIDS advocate, and member of ME Progress once told me, Its called activism for a reason. It kind of requires action, and we cant really do that. Brain fog and the perpetual reality of post-exertional malaise stymie traditional triumphalist visions of activist success: people drop out of actions last-minute; calls go unmade; meetings get cancelled. While much of modern life is marked by exhaustion, and the term activist fatigue is used by all sorts of movements, it must be remembered that activists with ME/CFS face the same challenges of inertia, but in exhausted bodies and foggy minds that make such conventional activist tactics particularly inaccessible. These challenges are negotiated through online planning meetings and virtual protestssomething that many of us are now familiar with. Staying with the work of these activiststaking its productive qualities seriouslyforces a reconsideration of what activist work counts as work, and of whose bodies can produce action that is legible as action. Bodies and impairment form the substrate of everyday interactions between ME/CFS activists that are indeed generative of biosocial worlds. Ilana is a black woman in her 30s who is newly involved in planning protests. There are many other folks on todays call, but Tina, the groups de facto leader, is absentas we speak, shes on an airplane, en route to a doctors appointment in the Silicon Valley (I trust my doctor in New York, shed told me, but if I can get 4%, even 2% better, its worth pursuing). I had offered to take minutes for Tina while she was gone, and as the meeting closes, I offer again to take minutes for the next one. Thank you, Ilana tells me, because the brain fog is strong up here. Janet, a white retired therapist in her 60s, remarks, Its kinda good that Tina is not on the call, because it helps her get a little distanceand it helps us. The group had gotten used to having a leader. It is good that Tinaa public health professional with one of the mildest cases of ME/CFS among the groupis such a charismatic force for the group, Janet says. But perhaps weve come to rely on it. Tina had admitted numerous times that she was unprepared to lead this years action, completely crashed from spearheading it the two years prior. Ilana, being the de facto leader of this meeting, then offers, I know its 2[pm], and I dont know about you guys, but Im fading a bit. We discuss when were meeting next, given it might not be next week. Its a holiday weekend, I say. Ilana replies, as if making small talk, Oh yeah? What holiday is it? Every holiday! Janet says with a laugh. At this point, Virginia, a middle-aged white woman from Long Island, interjects in a lightly teasing, but mostly empathetic, mode: Oh, that brain fog! After a moments pause, Janet gives the answer away: Easter and Passover! Ilana does not respond to the brain fog comment, but adds that she is not used to keeping track of holidays due to her schedule as a nurse: Hospitals never close. Here, home became more than a private space. Symptoms became social. When Virginia interjected, she attempted to extend an embodied relationality into disembodied virtual space. But the ways that symptoms matter interface with social position. What was a clear instance of brain fog to Virginia was for Ilana attributable instead to her working conditions as a nurse. Anthropological theories of disease, informed by Science and Technology Studies (STS), maintain that disease isnt created through biomedicine alone. Disease doesnt simply exist in a human body to be dis-covered by biomedicine; its reality is brought to life, enacted (Mol 2003), through the sociallike Ilana and Virginia did above. But embodiment loops back in repercussive ways. In the course of activist discussions, patients frequently remark that it is precisely bodily resources that they lack. A 30-something white man, lamenting that he was foggy last week and had forgotten about the meeting, interjected somewhat exasperatedly, I feel like if we were dealing with any other disease, it would be so much easier to mobilize. Any other disease Yet fogginess alone does not explain the derision with which ME/CFS has been met. Certainly, there are other examples of disabilities that are accepted as real, even when people in that community are unable to interact in person or expend much energy. To address this puzzle, we must grapple with how bodily symptoms are compounded by social position: most of those in the group are women, many are mothers, wives, or caretakers, whose middle-class position is simultaneously defined by the social expectation that they sublimate their own needs to that of others. This is distinct from, for instance, the parent activists of children with disabilities (Rapp and Ginsburg 2001). So who has the bodily capability to successfully advocate for the reality of a disease? The demographic of a disease is inseparable from the way its bodily and cognitive capacities come to matter (Meijer and Prins 1998). Met with fogginess, an invisible illness, disbelieving families, and social isolation, people with ME/CFS are not in the best positions to advocate for themselves, and they are also frequently without people to advocate on their behalf. This scales upward, meaning ME/CFSs very ontology is also foggy: at stake in this patient movement is the very validity of the disease itself. The success or failure of patient movements is not simply about social position; it is about bodies, and the difference it makes when these bodies come together in physical space. Reworking our attention to the uncanny ways in which bodies matter can allow us to account more capaciously for what activism, politics, and agency look like. Phenomenological, embodied, and cognitive resources are part of how disease activism takes shape and how disease is constructed; thus, impairment is always already part and parcel of the social category of disability, and illness (experience) and disease (biomedical entity) became less separable (ScheperHughes and Lock 1986). For chronic, contested conditions like ME/CFS, a second implication is that such diseases are gendered due to more than just the fact that women are more likely to have them. In paying attention to how foggy, exhausted bodies interface with social position, we witness the immanent gendering of what counts as disease in the first place, and how that disease is treatedor ignored. Coda: Trouble in the coal mine As stories of acute COVID-19 cases transforming into chronic syndromic diseases proliferate, we will undoubtedly see new ME/CFS diagnoses. Just as the United States government was unprepared for the pandemic, it will likewise find itself unable to adequately respond to the epidemic of chronic illness that will follow in COVIDs wake. Decades of underfunding research and dismissing ME/CFS patients mean that we wont know how to treat the post-COVID cases that result in ongoing fatigue and brain fog. Scientists, clinicians, and the public at large wont understand why some patients get better and some do not. In all intervening decades since governmental agencies first identified ME/CFS, its amorphous, hazy etiology created a crisis of belief that people with ME/CFS lived through in foggy minds and exhausted bodies that compounded their social isolation. ME/CFS is estimated to be the most underfunded per disease burden of any entity in the US (Dimmock, Mirin, and Jason 2016). Its patient activists have been trying to change thatin whatever ways that they can: an email to a representative here, participation in a virtual protest there. These actions alone can crash people with ME/CFS for weeks, yet they can seem inconsequential to an outside viewer. It is important to recognize the forms of activism and sociality that are both constituted by, and persist through, brain fog, and their repercussive effects. These effects shape disease itself, forming who counts as ill and who does not, and creating certain forms of scientific knowledge while precluding others (Schiebinger 2004), rendering medical cures and scientific clarity for some bodies, and leaving others in an uncertain and debilitating fog. Emily Lim Rogers is a PhD candidate in the Program in American Studies at the Department of Social & Cultural Analysis at New York University and the administrator at the NYU Center for Disability Studies. Emilys research is at the intersection of science, technology, and society (STS), medical anthropology, disability studies, and gender/sexuality studies. Emily studies the politics of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) in the United States. The research examines how chronically ill bodies and communities reckon with scientific uncertainty through the collective work of patient activism, the social life of symptoms, and the experience of exhaustion. Twitter: @elimrogers References Desjarlais, Robert, and Jason C. Throop. 2011. Phenomenological Approaches in Anthropology. Annual Review of Anthropology 40 (1): 87102. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-anthro-092010-153345. Dimmock, Mary E., Arthur A. Mirin, and Leonard A. Jason. 2016. Estimating the Disease Burden of ME/CFS in the United States and Its Relation to Research Funding. Journal of Medicine and Therapeutics 1 (1). https://doi.org/10.15761/JMT.1000102. Ginsburg, Faye, and Rayna Rapp. 2013. Disability Worlds. Annual Review of Anthropology 42 (1): 5368. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-anthro-092412-155502. Guenther, Lisa. 2013. Solitary Confinement: Social Death and Its Afterlives. Minneapolis: University Of Minnesota Press. Institute of Medicine, Committee on the Diagnostic Criteria for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Board on the Health of Select Populations. 2015. Beyond Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Redefining an Illness. The National Academies Collection: Reports Funded by National Institutes of Health. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US). http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK274235/. Livingston, Julie. 2012. Improvising Medicine: An African Oncology Ward in an Emerging Cancer Epidemic. Durham: Duke University Press. Mattingly, Cheryl. 2017. Autism and The Ethics of Care: A Phenomenological Investigation Into the Contagion of Nothing: AUTISM AND ETHICS OF CARE. Ethos 45 (2): 25070. https://doi.org/10.1111/etho.12164. Meijer, Irene Costera, and Baukje Prins. 1998. How Bodies Come to Matter: An Interview with Judith Butler. Signs 23 (2): 27586. Mol, Annemarie. 2003. The Body Multiple: Ontology in Medical Practice. Durham: Duke University Press. Puar, Jasbir K. 2017. The Right to Maim: Debility, Capacity, Disability. Anima. Durham London: Duke University Press. Rabinow, Paul. 2008. Artificiality and Enlightenment: From Sociobiology to Biosociality. In Anthropologies of Modernity, 17993. Wiley-Blackwell. https://doi.org/10.1002/9780470775875.ch7. Rapp, Rayna, and Faye D. Ginsburg. 2001. Enabling Disability: Rewriting Kinship, Reimagining Citizenship. Public Culture 13 (3): 53356. Ross, Amanda J., Marvin S. Medow, Peter C. Rowe, and Julian M. Stewart. 2013. What Is Brain Fog? An Evaluation of the Symptom in Postural Tachycardia Syndrome. Clinical Autonomic Research : Official Journal of the Clinical Autonomic Research Society 23 (6): 30511. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10286-013-0212-z. ScheperHughes, Nancy, and Margaret M. Lock. 1986. Speaking Truth to Illness: Metaphors, Reification, and a Pedagogy for Patients. Medical Anthropology Quarterly 17 (5): 13740. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1937-6219.1986.tb01061.x. Schiebinger, Londa. 2004. Plants and Empire: Colonial Bioprospecting in the Atlantic World. Cambridge, MA.: Harvard Univ. Press. Share this: Share Email Facebook Twitter Reddit Tumblr LinkedIn [view academic citations] [hide academic citations] Two police officers shot a man who forced his way into a Vancouver apartment and stabbed his girlfriend Sunday, police say. Vancouver police said the man, who hasnt been publicly identified by name or age, stabbed his girlfriend at a T Street apartment late Sunday. Several people inside the apartment were able to get him back outside, where he confronted officers and refused to drop his weapon, according to police. Two Vancouver officers fired, hitting the man. The woman who was stabbed, the man who was shot and three people who struggled with the man during an initial altercation were taken the hospital, according to police. Their medical statuses werent immediately released. The officers who shot the man have been put on leave, which is standard practice after police shootings. A team led by the Clark County Sheriffs Office is investigating the police shooting. -- Jim Ryan jryan@oregonian.com; 503-221-8005; @Jimryan015 A 24-year-old homeguard was stabbed to death and his friend left injured after they tried to resist a an alleged snatching bid by unidentified men at GB Road in the early hours of Monday. Investigators said they are yet to identify the suspects. According to the police, the incident took place around 1.30 am, when 24-year-old Aman, a resident of New Ashok Nagar, who worked as a home guard, was passing through GB Road with his friends Aniruddh, Hari Om and Raju. Deputy commissioner of police (central) Sanjay Bhatia said they received information from RML hospital at 1.54am stating that a man has been brought dead to the hospital, with multiple stab wounds. A police team rushed to the hospital and identified the deceased as Aman. The team also found that another man Aniruddh who works as a water pump operator in Noida, was admitted to the hospital with critical stab wounds. When police recorded Aniruddhs statement, he told them that the four of them had gone to the GB Road area around 11.30pm. Also Read | 15-year-old Dalit girls dead body found in Uttar Pradesh field, kin suspect murder He said when they were there, an unknown man approached them and snatched Amans mobile phone. Aman raised the alarm immediately and the four of them managed to nab the snatcher and thrashed him. However, in the meantime, an associate of the alleged snatcher reached the spot and attacked Aman with a knife. He stabbed him in the back and when Aniruddh intervened, he was also stabbed on his shoulder and arm, Bhatia said. As both the men collapsed, bleeding, Hari Om and Raju fled the area. The attackers also, taking advantage of the confusion, snatched whatever valuables they could lay their hands on from the two bleeding men and escaped. Aniruddh later somehow managed to get up and take Aman to RML hospital, where he was declared brought dead. Bhatia said a case of murder, theft and that under other relevant sections has been registered at Kamla Market police station. We are checking CCTV footages and local area criminals are being rounded up for questioning. The help of technical surveillance is also being taken to track the snatched mobile phone of the victim, the DCP said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Issued Sept. 19, HHS rule changes for provider grants are drawing increasing concern from rural and safety net hospitals. Some expect the changes will require those hospitals to pay back most of the federal COVID-19 assistance they received. Discussion on the rules is ongoing, with provider feedback previously having led to beneficial changes. Uncertainty over mid-September rule changes has led many lower-income hospitals to not spend their federal COVID-19 grants and left others scrambling to pay back money they spent. A Sept. 19 notice from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) changed CARES Act Provider Relief Fund (PRF) reporting requirements from those outlined in a June 19 FAQ. As part of those requirements, HHS initially defined lost revenue as any revenue that a health care provider lost due to coronavirus. It stated that hospitals could use any reasonable method of estimating the revenue during March and April 2020 compared to the same period had COVID-19 not appeared. It also would be reasonable to compare the revenues to the same period last year. The new definition of lost revenue was represented as a negative change in year-over-year net patient care operating income. The new guidance also said that after covering the cost of COVID-19-related expenses, hospitals generally will be able to apply PRF payments toward lost revenue only up to the amount of their 2019 net patient operating income. The American Hospital Association (AHA) wrote HHS a Sept. 25 letter warning about negative financial consequences for hospitals from the recent guidance and urging the agency to revert to the earlier guidance. The PRF funds have helped them continue to put the health and safety of patients and personnel first, and in many cases, ensure they are able to keep their doors open, wrote Rick Pollack, president and CEO of AHA. HHSs Sept. 19 guidance jeopardizes this position and will come at the cost of access to care for patients and communities. Effects on rural hospitals The significance of the changes has become clearer to a growing number of hospitals, including those in rural areas that have struggled in recent years to keep their doors open. Were working through some of it now, and were seeing the problems with the language that is in there, said Brock Slabach, a senior vice president with the National Rural Health Association (NRHA). The issue is affecting rural critical access hospitals (CAHs) differently than hospitals paid under the Medicare prospective payment system because CAHs are paid based on their costs, which they wont know until the end of their fiscal year. A large number of CAHs ended their fiscal years June 30 and are beginning to find they will owe PRF money back to the federal government. Hospitals with June 30 fiscal year ends were in the final process of closing their books and are now unable to do so and scrambling to understand how this unexpected shift in methodology will impact them, Nancy Galvagni, president and CEO of the Kentucky Hospital Association, wrote in a Sept. 28 letter to HHS. Some may even be put in a position of failing their bond covenants. One rural hospital estimated that the rule changes will require it to return almost 90% of its PRF funds $3.9 million out of $4.5 million, according to AHA. Such concerns are among a large number of uncertainties about the federal assistance. Another is the point in a hospitals financial statement at which Paycheck Protection Program loan forgiveness applies. Other areas of confusion include how to account for fundraising, said Dave Macke, FHFMA, CHFP, director of healthcare reimbursement services for VonLehman, an accounting firm. Its not third-party patient revenue, but you could make an argument that [it] is patient revenue, Macke said. The definition change could especially hurt hospitals that took aggressive cost-cutting steps in response to severe revenue losses stemming from bans on elective surgeries, hospital advocates say. Safety-net hospitals seek reversal The changes have raised similar concerns among urban safety net hospitals. Were concerned the post-payment guidance is inconsistent with the departments previous definitions of lost revenues and expenses, said Shahid Zaman, a principal policy analyst with Americas Essential Hospitals (AEH). This could result in essential hospitals [that are] confronting COVID-19 in their community having to return their PRF payments. Zaman highlighted the revised definition of lost revenues as a particular problem, noting it complicates comparing actual revenue to budgeted revenue for 2020 and includes expenses in the revenue calculation. Elements of the departments guidance are burdensome, confusing and inconsistent, which could result in unreliable and nonuniform data being reported by hospitals, Zaman said. We believe HHS should withdraw this guidance and work with providers to issue guidance consistent with its previous definitions of lost revenues and expenses. AEH is formulating a detailed response to HHS. Could HHS revise the guidance? Slabach said HHS has been responsive to previous guidance-related concerns that hospitals have raised. We just started the conversation, so to speak, Slabach said. Although some believe HHS made the changes as a way to recoup some of the PRF funds it had allocated to hospitals, Slabach assumed that HHS thought the rule changes would help hospitals. I dont think any rural hospital CEO expects to get a big windfall off of the pandemic at the governments expense, Slabach said. But accommodating pandemic-related expenses only through the end of 2020, as described in the new guidance, will leave hospitals without federal help to cover potentially large pandemic-related responses during the winter, when COVID-19 cases may accelerate, he said. AHA also is pushing for reversal of the PRF changes, including talking with congressional leaders, according to a Oct. 2 update. The group also urged hospitals to contact local congressional representatives and the White House about the issue. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 18:58:12|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close PHNOM PENH, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The National Assembly of Cambodia on Monday adopted a draft law on commercial gaming management, which was intended to bring casinos and other gaming facilities in the kingdom under control. Some 114 lawmakers attending the parliamentary session unanimously approved the bill, said the parliament's statement released after the session. Economy and Finance Minister Aun Pornmoniroth said the bill sets a minimum capital for the investment in a casino and provides measures to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. "The law is aimed at further strengthening the management of commercial gaming facilities in Cambodia so as to contribute to boosting economic growth, promoting tourism, increasing tax revenue as well as maintaining social safety and security," he said at the session. In Cambodia, casinos are licensed to operate in order to help attract foreign tourists, and its nationals are not allowed to gamble in the casinos. According to Ros Phearun, deputy director-general of the financial industry department at the ministry of economy and finance, there have been a total of 193 licensed casinos in Cambodia. Enditem The test case focuses on two small business claims that were denied by Hollard and HDI GlobaI Specialty. It was launched after multiple complaints to the AFCA by small businesses hoping to claim on their business interruption policies. The HDI client was a Tamworth caravan park, while Hollard was insuring a food distribution business. Hollard chief executive Richard Enthoven told Reuters that the firm had volunteered to be part of the test case so that the court system can clarify for our policyholders, Hollard and the industry how to handle this important issue. At the heart of the courts deliberations are two words. Those words are subsequent and amendments. To discover why those words have such importance, we have to look deeper into the policies issued by both of the insurance providers. Both policies covered an outbreak of an infectious or contagious human disease occurring within a 20km radius of the premises. The exclusion, however stated there is no cover for highly pathogenic Avian influenza or any other diseases declared to be quarantinable diseases under the Quarantine Act 1908 and subsequent amendments irrespective of whether discovered at the premises, or outbreaking elsewhere. While that may seem a clear enough exclusion, the legal arguments have arisen because both policies exclusion clauses were out of date they referred to the Quarantine Act which was repealed in 2015. This is why those two words may have such significance. Although the Quarantine Act was replaced with the Biosecurity Act, the fact that the policies exclusion clauses refer specifically to the former piece of legislation, gives rise to the argument that the exclusion clauses are now invalid. We may never know whether the insurers legal teams were unaware of the changes in 2015, or whether they fully intended the policys and subsequent amendments terminology to catch the new Act. In court last week, however, the ICAs legal team are certainly pointing towards a lack of attention being the reason for the policys reference to the old Act from 1908. Its not a pretty sight not to know of what happened in terms of the public law of the country in a relevant respect, Brett Walker S.C. told the court on behalf of the ICA. Its not uncommon in insurance, added one of the judges. Having inferred that the policy was, in effect, out of date, Walker went on to make the ICAs case that the key phrase and subsequent amendments made it clear that the exclusions still applied to any future replacements of the law. The defendants argument, made by John Sheahan Q.C., is that the policy should be read literally and that the phrase applied solely to the Quarantine Act. So in the end, the industrys liabilities may well come down to does the court look at the intention of the policy (to exclude pandemics) or does it stick with the actual words on the paperwork, even if those words leave insurers across Australia shouldering a heavy burden that they never intended to be saddled with. Bengaluru: Close on the heels of the announcement of dates for by-elections for two assembly seats in Karnataka, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) raided 14 locations associated with Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President D.K. Shivaku Image Source: IANS News Bengaluru: Close on the heels of the announcement of dates for by-elections for two assembly seats in Karnataka, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) raided 14 locations associated with Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President D.K. Shivaku Image Source: IANS News Bengaluru, Oct 5 : After a day-long search operation in 14 properties spread across three states allegedly owned by Karnataka's powerful Congress leader D.K. Shivakumar, the Central Bureau of Investigations (CBI) on Monday registered a case of amassing Rs 74.93 crore worth assets disproportionate to his known sources of income. A statement released by the CBI stated that it has registered a case against former Karnataka minister (presently MLA) Shivakumar on allegations of possessing disproportionate assets to the tune of Rs 74.93 crore (approx) in his name and in the name of his family members. The statement further said that the CBI raided 14 properties linked to the leader in three states -- Karnataka, Delhi and Maharashtra. "Searches were conducted today at 14 locations in Karnataka, Delhi and Mumbai at the premises of Shivakumar and others which led to the recovery of Rs 57 lakh (approx) in cash and several incriminating documents, including property documents, bank related information, computer hard disk etc.," the statement said, adding that the alleged corruption case against the Karnataka Congress chief was registered by the CBI based on the inputs shared by the Enforcement Directorate over a money laundering probe. When the CBI sleuths descended to launch widespread raids, which began at around 6.30 a.m., supporters of Shivakumar also started gathering in front of his residence in the upscale Sadashivanagara locality in the city. As the day progressed, the restless supporters started a flash protest across the key junctions in the city causing traffic jams and throwing social distancing norms to the wind. Hearing rumours that Shivakumar and his brother and Bengaluru Rural Lok Sabha MP D.K. Suresh could be taken into custody, drama ensued with his supporters trying to "gherao" the CBI sleuths' vehicles and lay seize on the CBI headquarters in Hebbal. Both bids were foiled by the city police. The supporters calmed down only after D.K. Suresh took to Twitter to clarify that their family would not be cowed down by such threats. "We all know who's behind this. We will fight this till the end and emerge victorious as we are the followers of truth and justice. I appeal to our followers not to protest and cause any inconvenience to the public," he tweeted. It can be recalled that last year, the 58-year-old Congress leader was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) after four days of questioning over money-laundering allegations. The September 2019 arrest followed tax raids on Shivakumar in 2017, when Rs 8.6 crore "undisclosed income" was allegedly found. The figure was revised to Rs 11 crore later. The ED had filed a money laundering case against Shivakumar in 2018, based on a chargesheet filed by the Income Tax Department. During the money laundering probe, the ED had forwarded some of their findings to the CBI last year. This is the first CBI case against Shivakumar. Speaking to reporters earlier in the day, Shivakumar's family counsel A.S. Ponnana asked if they will keep raiding his house every time there is an election? "There should be some sanctity - something like the rule of law. This is not a lawful action. I don't think there is a doubt in anybody's mind," he said. "The public is aware as to why this is happening. The by-elections are announced, he is one of the star campaigners, and he is KPCC president. It is only a politically motivated action and not a legally warranted one," he added. Meanwhile, political slugfest continued through out the day, with BJP and Congress leaders taking turns to criticise each other. Congress leaders termed the episode as "raid raj" and an attempt to "derail the preparations" for the bypolls in the state, while the BJP snubbed the Congress stating that it should stop playing the victim card. Congress General Secretary, Randeeep Singh Surjewala took to twitter, saying that the insidious game of intimidation and machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo is being executed by a puppet CBI. "CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt," he tweeted. He added, "Let Modi and Yeddyurappa governments and BJP's frontal organisations i.e CBI-ED-Income Tax know that Congress workers and leaders will not be cowed down nor bow down before such devious attempts. Our resolve to fight for people and expose BJP's maladministration only becomes stronger." Leader of the opposition Siddaramaiah tweeted, "The latest CBI raid on @KPCCPresident @DKShivakumar's house is another attempt to derail our preparation for bypolls. I strongly condemn this." Responding to the searches, the ex-Karnataka Chief Minister added: "@BJP4India has always tried to indulge in vindictive politics & mislead public attention. The latest CBI raid on @KPCCPresident @DKShivakuma 's house is another attempt to derail our preparation for bypolls. I strongly condemn this." Hitting out at the Congress, Medical Education Minister K. Sudhakar tweeted that the two bypolls - in Rajarajeshhwari Nagar and Sira - are not crucial in terms of numbers. The BJP has just too many MLAs in the 225-member assembly to be in any danger. But the Congress and JD-S would not like to lose these seats that they had held, while the ruling party would not want a defeat either. Newly appointed BJP national General Secretary C.T. Ravi tweeted: "It was the corrupt @INCIndia government led by Sonia Gandhi that treated CBI as a Puppet against its opponents. Wasn't huge unaccounted money seized by IT authorities during the raid on the house of @DKShivakumar?" The Karnataka BJP through its Twitter handle shot back that the Congress should have known that they would have to face such an embarrassment in future when they garlanded him when he was released from Tihar jail. "He is a corrupt politician everyone knows, but the Congress is hell bent on protecting him. Congress should be ashamed of it," the BJP tweet read. The bypolls will be held in Karnataka on November 3. In the context of a rapid transformation of the banking industry, IDEMIA, the global leader in Augmented Identity, supports FinTechs and neobanks with the launch of the Global Fintech Accelerator Card Program. This new program allows a rapid process from cardholder onboarding - to card issuance. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201005005366/en/ (Photo: Business Wire) IDEMIAs leadership in card manufacturing, as the number 1 global FinTech card issuance partner, is based on a solid experience of a global dedicated FinTech team and a network of 30 Service Centers in 26 countries around the world. FinTechs can leverage the capability and know-how of IDEMIA to enable card issuance into the marketplace anywhere in the world. Over the years, IDEMIA has built the largest world wide network of personalization centers designed to optimize responsiveness and proximity to the cardholder for fast delivery times. All of the 30 Service Centers are supported by a Common Personalization System (CPS) that allows card profile developments to be instantly and securely transferred and re-used in any one of them, helping globally aspiring Fintechs to expand rapidly. In addition to CPS, all IDEMIA sites are inter-connected via the IDEMIA Hub with a connection to almost all local and global card processors and BaaS providers so that services and solutions can be safely replicated, extended, shared and optimized across the world. The IDEMIA FinTech Accelerator CardProgram benefits from dedicated local, regional and global FinTech teams that are trained to help to create a card product that will ensure FInTechs can fully differentiate their product in the marketplace. Before manufacturing the cards, the needs of various stakeholders within the FinTechs organization are taken into consideration to guarantee an optimal start of the card issuing journey. IDEMIA provides advice on how to use innovative solutions to help FinTechs to further differentiate such as card packaging solutions, IDEMIA metal cards, biometric cards (F.CODE), cards with a dynamic security code (MOTION CODE) and recycled cards (GREENPAY). With IDEMIAs digital assets, customers will be able to blend the physical card with digital services. The FinTech Accelerator Card Program not only provides a seamless process for a successful card launch, but also it delivers additional digital services such as mobile identity proofing for customer on-boarding and IDEMIA Card Connect, a way to activate a card or provide secure customer authentication by tapping the contactless card on the phone. IDEMIAs digital assets can also enable FinTechs to enrich their mobile banking apps with new payment features via digital cards, reinventing the customer journey for both proximity and remote payments. We recognize that the FinTech world needs innovative solutions and to move quickly. Our Accelerator Card Program does just that and ensures that we can help the processors, BaaS providers and FinTech customers get their products to market as quickly as possible and expand globally without the need to start a new project in each country Stuart Yaxley | Senior Vice President Global Accounts and FinTechs for Financial Institutions at IDEMIA IDEMIAs FinTech accelerator card program and Hub have been strategic levers in creating an advanced interface and facilitating business for all of our existing and future global fintech customers, including providing a wide variety of valuable solutions such as metal cards, recycled plastic cards and digital solutions. The IDEMIA FinTech team are extremely knowledgeable in their field, and with our combined global reach, our partnership is a powerful force as we support our customers international growth journeys. Moreover, their global service delivery team have made sure that the interface that we have set up with them is designed to work with all of the needs and expectations of our customers. Neil Harris | Group Chief Commercial Officer of GPS - Global Processing Services. We at OneCard have set out to reimagine Credit Cards and have launched a Mobile First Metal Credit Card. We needed a partner who has the same philosophy and outlook of innovation and consumer first. The IDEMIA FinTech team was our partner of choice to create the stunning 16 g Metal OneCard. Their personalized Metal Card offering has helped differentiate OneCard. IDEMIA has been able to deliver the product for us in these challenging times also. Vibhav Hathi, Cofounder & CMO, OneCard About IDEMIA IDEMIA, the global leader in Augmented Identity, provides a trusted environment enabling citizens and consumers alike to perform their daily critical activities (such as pay, connect and travel), in the physical as well as digital space. Securing our identity has become mission critical in the world we live in today. By standing for Augmented Identity, an identity that ensures privacy and trust and guarantees secure, authenticated and verifiable transactions, we reinvent the way we think, produce, use and protect one of our greatest assets our identity whether for individuals or for objects, whenever and wherever security matters. We provide Augmented Identity for international clients from Financial, Telecom, Identity, Public Security and IoT sectors. With close to 15,000 employees around the world, IDEMIA serves clients in 180 countries. For more information, visit www.idemia.com / Follow @IDEMIAGroup on Twitter View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201005005366/en/ MUMBAI: The Indian government is willing to bear the cost of the waiver of interest on interest charges on loans in the wake of the distress due to the pandemic. The proposal seems well thought and middle class borrowers would rejoice the move if the Supreme Court rules in favour of this waiver. The apex court is scheduled to hear the case today. But as there are no free lunches, there are no equal borrowers either. The upsides of the proposal itself pose a difficult endgame to credit discipline. We take a look at what the proposal means in five points: Saving the Banks The government has kept the benefit of the waiver limited to loans of up to 2 crore and said it wants to support only the small borrowers who are the most vulnerable. But this limit is borne more out of necessity to protect banks than to help small borrowers. If the compound interest calculated during the six-month moratorium period was waived off for all borrowers, including large corporates, banks would have hato forgo an estimated 6 trillion in interest income. To put it mildly, this could wipe out the net worth of the largest lender State Bank of India (SBI). Investors of banks are elated as reflected in the near 2% rise of the Nifty banking index today. Forced Equality The government has said it wants to protect only the most vulnerable borrowers. But no two borrowers are the same. A 2 crore home loan borrower likely has a different financial profile than one with 2 crore worth loans to run a small business. In the same way, a borrower with a large education loan has a different risk profile than one with a large credit card outstanding. The governments proposal risks over simplifying the categories of borrowers and plugging them together despite their unequal profiles in vulnerability. Discipline is Dumb The most unpleasant fallout of the move is a miffed borrower who was disciplined enough to not take a repayment holiday. To be sure, the government has proposed to waive interest irrespective of whether moratorium was opted or not by the borrowers. Even so, the disciplined borrower may feel cheated for taking the trouble to pay off every month. As such, past waivers of farm loans have eroded credit discipline among such borrowers over time. The delinquencies in farm loans have been elevated, an indication of a weakening credit culture besides weak finances. Paradox of Rift At the outset, the governments affidavit mentions only banks as beneficiaries of compound interest waiver. The intention is to protect depositors. Ergo, it is unclear whether the government seeks to subsidise non-deposit taking non-bank finance companies (NBFC). As such, micro finance loans have been kept out of the ambit. This goes against the governments own statement that it wants to support small borrowers. Moreover, differentiating between banks and NBFCs would be unfair as both have retail and small business borrowers. Win Today, Lose Tomorrow There are no free lunches. The compound interest waiver has a cost and the government will need to shell out 5,000-7,000 crore as subsidy towards this waiver. But the government raises money through taxes and eventually the cost is borne by individuals. To be sure, protecting banks from forgoing compound interest is ultimately protecting the depositor. The government should be appreciated for this effort. Even so, every borrower or a depositor is also a taxpayer. There is a subtle warning by the government. "..the government bearing this burden would naturally have an impact on several other pressing commitments being faced by the nation, including meeting direct costs associated with pandemic management, addressing basic needs of the common man and mitigating the common man's problems arising out of loss of livelihood," the affidavit says. There needs to be a hard and long look of whether the taxpayer should be subsidising borrowers at all even if the taxpayer is also a distressed borrower. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics ACANA recognizes the value local pet specialty retailers offer their communities and is showcasing select stores as part of a captivating online video series this month. Additionally, the company will travel to more than 70 stores in 13 states - from Delaware to Colorado - over the next four weeks as part of a mobile tour offering Pet Lovers an opportunity to support and get to know the pet stores in their own neighborhoods. Consumers who shop at neighborhood pet stores in October will also have the chance to win a year's supply of ACANA premium pet food. "We're thrilled to dedicate an entire month to neighborhood pet stores and celebrate everything they do for Pet Lovers in their communities," said Luke Mullins, director of sales for U.S. neighborhood pet stores at Champion Petfoods. "Neighborhood pet stores always offer expert advice, just around the corner. We first started providing our nourishing food options for cats and dogs on the shelves of specialty pet retailers, and the support and trust of independent store owners has allowed us to introduce ACANA to people who are looking for high-quality nutrition for the four-legged members of their family." In recent years, independent pet stores have seen steady sales growth, as pet owners favor more customized nutrition options and unique supplies for their pets. These specialty shops have the ability to cater specifically to their local communities, and despite the widespread impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on retailers, they have remained open. In many cases, they have adapted their business models, offering curbside pick-up and delivery options to help consumers continue safely shopping for their favorite pet essentials and treats. ACANA is featuring the stories of several American neighborhood pet store owners as part of a short series, available to view at acana.com/neighborhoodpetstores or on the ACANA Dog & Cat Foods YouTube channel. "We believe that being a community pet store means a lot more than just selling cat and dog food," said Martin Tuttle, owner of Pet People of Los Gatos in Los Gatos, Calif. "We hold vaccination clinics, pet adoption events, training for our customers as well as our team members. We've sponsored donation drives for rescue groups and for families that have been displaced by some of the fires recently in California. So, our view: we're all in this together. That's what community is all about." Starting today, ACANA will also kick off its mobile tour, with plans to stop at neighborhood pet stores in the following cities: Wilmington, Del. Albany, N.Y. Pittsburg , Pa. , Pa. Columbus, Ohio Louisville, Ky. Nashville, Tenn. St. Louis Chicago Milwaukee Madison, Wis. Des Moines, Iowa Omaha, Neb. Lincoln, Neb. Denver Fort Collins, Colo. Boulder, Colo. In support of neighborhood pet stores, ACANA is encouraging consumers to frequent community pet retailers when shopping for their pets in October and beyond. Those who text the word ACANA to 811811 along with a photo of their receipt to show proof of purchase from a participating store will be entered for a chance to win a year's supply of ACANA premium pet food, as well as $1,000 to benefit their community pet shop. You can learn more about Neighborhood Pet Month, activities happening all month long, find a list of neighborhood pet stores in your area and check out official rules at acana.com/neighborhoodpetstores. About Champion Petfoods Founded in a small town in Alberta, Canada, Champion Petfoods is committed to pet health and sound nutrition guides all we do. At Champion, we have been pioneers in crafting premium food for dogs and cats since 1985. We specialize in making foods that are Biologically Appropriate to nourish as nature intended. That means we start with the finest whole prey ingredients from both fresh and raw animal sources. These, along with everything else we use, have been selected from carefully curated suppliers whom we know and trust. Our foods are crafted by passionate nutrition and health experts in world class kitchens, and as Pet Lovers ourselves, we guarantee the highest quality and safety in every ORIJEN and ACANA product we make. Champion exports to nearly 100 countries worldwide. To learn more, visit championpetfoods.com. SOURCE Champion Petfoods Congratulations on the launch of your new book. It is a massive 802-page text. Why Selfhood? Njoya: The book is an attempt to streamline the African identity. Selfhood, in the context of the book, means that human beings are created in the image of God and are complete in themselves. It is a strong affirmation that all human beings are created sovereign, equal and unique with equal rights. What is the motivation behind it? First, the motivation derives from theological teachings. It is good I start by saying that God created both man and woman in his own image. He created them to be helpers of each other, and not necessarily to live independent of each other. For long enough now, many biblical interpreters have distorted the meaning of the creation analogy to imply that God created different people. That is not the case. He created and differentiated them to complement each other. Hence, it was a gender differentiation but not a separation. Secondly, the book sought to offer an understanding of how religion and science marry in realising the meaning of human life. It is, therefore, accurate to say that differentiation that God did was functional. It enables both men and women to play different roles that complement each other, and that is a fundamental lesson that I was trying to bring forth. What is your idea of gender equality? As I have said, human beings are made as one. It is only after differentiation that the gender become distinct. That, however, does not make a man greater being than the woman or vice-versa. Instead, it makes them equal to each other. So, for example, the fact that we have different biological functions does not really make either inferior or superior to the other. Women are created with a womb to carry the baby. The fact that men do not carry pregnancy does not make them inferior. Therefore, from biological, theological and cultural perspectives, man and woman cannot be greater or lesser than the other. Both are equal and that is gender equality to me. The subject of your book derives a lot from female sexuality. Where do you ideologically merge the practice of male circumcision and FGM in demystifying the perceived equality? From the biblical days of Abraham, people used to sacrifice children. The practice ceased only when they went to Babylon. There is a time God asked Abraham not to sacrifice his child. Instead, he cut off the foreskin of Isaac. This means that only a part of his was cut off. Think about female circumcision: the whole clitoris had to be cut off. You see, thats a practice of inequality in the treatment of women, although it is intended for a sacrificial course. Besides the fact that FGM is hurtful and harmful, it is an unequal practice in itself. FGM is a horrendous act. Sometimes it is justified by its proponents. Tell us more about your research on its impact Scientific evidence has shown that FGM has adverse effects on a woman. Neuroscience explains that the clitoris is wired with 20,000 nerve endings. They facilitate sexual activity, and are useful during birth as they help in pulling the pelvic bones apart. Cutting off the clitoris means that the nerves are removed from her body, reducing the womans ability to give birth. Data shows that 20 per cent of circumcised women die while giving birth. In other cases, still births are recorded in case the mother is not lucky to get caesarean section done. It also results to fistula due to the constriction of the muscles. Hence, FGM is a life-threatening exercise, against all logic. A lot of focus has been given to Africa in regards to FGM. Is FGM an African traditional problem? No. FGM did not originate in Africa. It was introduced during the Arab invasion of Africa and it spread to different societies. There is no evidence of clitorectomy in some communities such as Turkana as recently as the time of European invasion. It is almost surreal that FGM continues in the 21st century, and there is no doubt that the efforts to end the practice have been in place for eons now. Why do you think it is still a challenge today? It is true that FGM practice continues today and that makes it an important subject to address. As recorded in my book, FGM was first banned in the Gikuyu community by the Agikuyu people in 1915. There was conflict in outlawing the practice. There were men who didnt want women circumcision to continue because they loved children and they had seen the increase of mortality rate associated with the practice. The Agikuyu fought FGM led by P.C.E.A. The church required all its members to put a thumb stamp as a sign that they would not participate in FGM. Those who declined to sign were expelled from the church. That brought the connotation that P.C.E.A is a Church of the thumbprint. So, you can see that the church played an integral role in marshalling the people to ban FGM in the early days. And why is it still a challenge today? I would say that people practice it for what they believe. For example, among the Kikuyu, the proponents of FGM believed that circumcised women would not prostitute themselves. They knew that FGM was a way of taking away the ability of women to experience full sexual pleasure, although they had witnessed its adverse outcomes. I also think the idea of male domination has had a great share in sustaining the culture of FGM. One thing is that it contributes to polygamy in the society. A circumcised woman will want his man to marry another woman so that she can be relieved of the pain during intercourse. Hence, women have always sought alternatives that would take away their tribulations and there has been little goodwill from men. So, whichever way you look at it, FGM is an oppressive act upon women that has been sustained by beliefs and a collective lack of goodwill to fight against it all in one accord. You mentioned that the fight against FGM was not been without conflict. Who did the reformers rattle and battle to have their way? The church faced fierce opposition from different quarters, including the government of the day. The government, led by Governor Edward Northey, who was in charge of Kenya after World War I, opposed the ban on FGM enforced by the P.C.E.A. They did not want the vital custom of the Agikuyu people to fade, the main reason being that they wanted to retain the control over the people. There were other churches, including the Methodist church, Seventh Day Adventist and Anglican Church who were part of the missionary alliance that agreed to the ban, but only the P.C.E.A enforced it. How was the research process for the book like? The book would not have been over 800 pages if it didnt take into account the illustration of all the resources that were available. I have travelled across Africa, visiting communities that practised FGM. I have been to Ghana and Nigeria, and I have also visited Matabele and Zulu communities. Are there plans to have the book translated to African languages? I am convinced that translations to local languages should be made available. This will increase the reach and the awareness, especially among men who champion for the FGM practice. Most of them will get an understanding of the inequality and tribulations associated with cutting off the female genitals. THE University of Limerick (UL) and Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT) are to share in 23m of funding allocated under a major new initiative. Minister of State for Higher Education and local TD Niall Collins has confirmed that of the 197m of grants to fund 22 projects under the Human Capital Initiative, a significant number have been awarded to two of the citys third level institutions. UL has been given 16.2m for its UL@Work project, which aims to build a learning platform that responds to digitisation and the future world of work. The rest of the money, just over 7.5m will go to LIT for its Digital Academy for Sustainable Built Environment project. This will be a hub for the provision of upskilling, capacity building and education to the building sector on green construction, circular economy, and digital skills. Mr Collins said: These projects cement UL and LIT as on the forefront of technological and sustainable growth in third level institutes. I am delighted that this funding has been awarded to Limerick. I want to thank the hours of effort and work staff at both UL and LIT committed to achieve this. A pair of free health clinics are scheduled this week in Worcester that will offer coronavirus testing and flu shots. The first is scheduled Wednesday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 19 Tacoma St. The next is the following day from noon to 4 p.m. at Community Healthlink at 72 Jaques Ave. Each testing and research fair is a part of the Stop the Spread campaign in Massachusetts and will provide free masks and hand sanitizer. Flu shots will also be provided at no cost with an insurance card. Appointments are not required. The events are weather permitting. A free testing clinic in Worcester was canceled last week due to the threat of rain. Worcester was been designated as a high-risk coronavirus community for three consecutive weeks, meaning its positive test rate was greater than eight per 100,000. City officials including City Manager Edward Augustus Jr. and Mayor Joseph Petty said last Thursday that over the last 100 days, Worcester is averaging 8.9 cases per 100,000 people. As of last week, the city has had 6,409 positive cases, up 141 from last week. The week prior saw a jump of 137 cases. Overall, Worcester has experienced 291 coronavirus deaths since the pandemic. Related Content: Global humanitarian organization, Alight , celebrates these creative approaches to design, and they are taking it a step further by leaning on the community in Nakivale and the support of the A&D industry to help update the Reception Center. "Outside of the humanitarian sector, we often hear about what happens that forces a person to flee their home and what life might look like in a refugee camp, however, there's what happens in the middle - the experience of fleeing and arriving somewhere to seek refuge and safety - and we wonder if this might be the most important part to helping a person work towards a life filled with dignity, joy and purpose," says Daniel Wordsworth, Alight CEO. "The Reception Center, also referred to as the Transit Center, is the first place a person arrives after what is often a long journey, by foot. What should be the most dignified place is currently not, which is why we're working closely with the Nakivale community to reimagine this space." A recent example of a refugee-led architecture and design project at Nakivale that has made a positive impact is the Rubondo Secondary School. The Rubondo community is remotely located within the settlement and the nearest secondary school was over an hour away, inhibiting children to continue their education. In response, the community came together to build a secondary school, brick-by-brick. Word of the idea spread, and gained support and traction, which led to a more official construction of the first-ever secondary school in the outermost region of the settlement. Just 1.5 years later, the Rubondo Secondary School has grown from four students to 110, with students that are refugees and also from the neighboring Ugandan host community who previously had to walk 25 miles to access the nearest secondary school. Knowing both the literal and symbolic importance of structures such as the Rubondo Secondary School, and appreciating the power of design, Alight is calling on the A&D community to help unleash the abundance and support creating a space filled with light and hope as these new families and displaced people enter into a place they can call home, beginning with the Reception Center. To learn more about Alight and ways to support the organization's efforts, visit www.wearealight.org . ABOUT ALIGHT Established in 1978 by founder Neal Ball, Alight , formerly known as American Refugee Committee, provides health care, clean water, shelter, protection and economic opportunities to more than 3.5 million people in 19 countries each year. Alight believes in the incredible creativity, potential, and ingenuity of the displaced and works to shine a light on their humanity, the tremendous amount of good that's already happening and the possibilities to do more. The organization exists to see and help every person make meaningful change in the world from displaced and marginalized communities in Africa, Asia and the Americas to...anyone, anywhere. Learn more about Alight at www.wearealight.org. SOURCE Alight Related Links https://wearealight.org From arranging transport for lakhs of migrants when the coronavirus lockdown was imposed to helping students in flood-hit areas reach NEET examination centres, Bollywood actor, now nicknamed Messiah, Sonu Sood has been conferred with a SDG Special Humanitarian Action by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This is a rare honour. UN recognition is very special. I have done whatever little I have done, in my own humble way, for my fellow countrymen without any expectations. However, to be recognized and awarded feels good. I fully support the UNDP in its endeavours to achieve the SDGs by 2030. Planet Earth and mankind will greatly benefit from the implementation of these goals, said Sonu Sood, on receiving the coveted award, according to DNA's report. No more climbing of trees anymore for your online classes. Your village will have its own mobile tower this week. @Karan_Gilhotra https://t.co/b4xWwNjhiy sonu sood (@SonuSood) September 29, 2020 Responding to the needy from various corners of the country, Sood used Twitter to help out students in remote areas by providing them smartphones and internet access, going up to the extent of installing a mobile tower. He has donated clothes to children in villages and funded hard-working students to achieve their dreams of joining civil services. These clothes can never look better on anyone else. Our superstars. https://t.co/sDJDSlhJSr sonu sood (@SonuSood) September 27, 2020 Sood isnt the first actor to receive the award, and joins the club of stars including Angelina Jolie, Leonardo DiCaprio, Emma Watson, Liam Neeson, Cate Blanchett, Antonio Banderas, Nicole Kidman and Priyanka Chopra who have been recognised for their philanthropic work. Mumbai: Actor Ayushmann Khurrana on Monday said he is fortunate to have worked with some of the most visionary filmmakers" of Bollywood, including director Sriram Raghavan, with whom he collaborated for the National Award-winning Andhadhun". Released on October 5, 2018, the black comedy thriller earned critical acclaim and went on to become one of the biggest hits of the year. Andhadhun" earned Khurrana his maiden National Award for his performance, while also bagging top honours in the best Hindi film and screenplay category at the 66th National Awards. On the films second anniversary, the actor said it was his privilege to team up with a prolific filmmaker like Raghavan. I have been fortunate enough to work with some of the best, visionary filmmakers of our time and Im honoured that I got the opportunity to work in a Sriram Raghavan film. Yes, Im known for my progressive social entertainers that leave a message but what matters most to me is being a part of the best cinema that is produced by our industry," Khurrana said in a statement. The film, also featuring Tabu, Radhika Apte and Anil Dhawan, is a murder-drama at the centre of which is a pianist (Khurrana), who may or may not be blind. The 36-year-old actor described Raghavan as a master" of psychological thrillers and said Andhadhun" was a learning experience for him. Khurrana said the film offered him the opportunity to push himself further. I like to experiment, mix it up and push the envelope as an artiste and Andhadhun gave me the opportunity to do something that I had never done before. I thank Sriram sir for his faith in me and I cant wait to collaborate with him again, hopefully soon," he added. The actor was last seen on the big screen in this years Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan", while his other release, Gulabo Sitabo", released on Amazon Prime Video. Marylands budding hemp industry is growing despite concerns from some Baltimore County residents about living near a crop that was outlawed for several decades. Hemp is a strain of cannabis that looks and smells much like the plant thats smoked recreationally and medicinally. But hemp contains only a very small amount of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, which causes the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis. Instead, hemp mostly contains cannabidiol oil, or CBD, which is used in pills, creams and consumable products. CBDs popularity is growing because scientists discovered it stimulates a reaction in the body that reduces pain and inflammation, said Darren OBrien, a hemp farmer in Baltimore County. People who are growing hemp are not hippies, OBrien said. "Its helping tens of thousands of people. OBrien manages the Hemp Hills Farm and Family Care CBD shop, but he stressed hemp isnt just about CBD. The plant has been a major crop in Canada and Europe for decades, he said, because its fibers can be used to produce clothing, shoes or paper, among other things. Maryland has seen the industry blossom since starting a pilot program in 2018. There are nearly 100 farms statewide a roughly 50% increase this past year. And new state regulations for the industry will take effect Nov. 1. But as more farmers view the crop as a gateway to the lucrative CBD market, some neighbors are fuming. And at least one county government Baltimore County is considering restrictions on the crop. The people that have contacted me have said that theyve had problems with some of their children who have respiratory issues [that] are made more complicated by hemp. People who have asthma find that their conditions are more agitated from the hemp, said Baltimore County Councilman Wade Kach, who has sponsored a bill to limit hemp farms. The council held a hearing Tuesday on Kachs proposed legislation, and Kach also held a virtual meeting Thursday for both sides to discuss the issue. The council is scheduled to vote on the bill Monday night, though Kach has said he may seek to postpone a vote. Story continues One of Baltimore Countys five hemp farms is located off Broadway Road, just north of Stevenson, and its surrounded by suburban homes. Vince Piccinini, the farmer whose name is listed on the state registration for the Broadway Road hemp farm, could not be reached for comment. While the land has long been used for farming, Kach aide Ryan Fried said a barrage of complaints followed Piccininis decision to grow hemp there. Like any other hemp farm, its fields release an odor from late summer until early November when the plant is harvested. Residents have voiced health concerns over the stench. Kachs bill would prohibit hemp farms within 2,000 feet of a residential property. The Cockeysville Republicans proposal would also require harvesting facilities to be set back at least 500 feet from the farms property line and hemp farms would be prohibited from operating within 2 miles of another hemp farm. The county council is expected to vote on the bill this week and, if approved, it would take effect Oct. 19. Residents from the Sparks and Lutherville-Timonium communities testified in support of the proposal last week. They said approximately 32 homes are within 1,000 feet of the Piccinini farm, which is listed in the state as GPS Nurseries. This is frightening," Lutherville resident Michele Pearlman said. Council, you have our health in your hands. Please protect us by passing this bill. Another resident, Richard Sciacca, reiterated that neither the U.S. Food and Drug Administration nor Maryland allows CBD to be added to edible products, even though its happening. Dr. Jefferson Lee of Lutherville said the FDA says on its website that pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers shouldnt be exposed to cannabis or cannabis-derived products. It is incredibly disturbing, the idea of my young children becoming guinea pigs for future research on long-term health hazards from cannabis exposure at home," Lee said. But Kevin Atticks of the Maryland Hemp Coalition said there are no studies showing negative health effects from inhaling hemp. "You may not like the smell, but its not dangerous, Atticks said. Right now, the hemp dispute appears to be limited to Baltimore County. But agriculture advocates are worried about the county council bills impact on farmers. Our concern is that this legislation is in direct conflict with the states Right to Farm Law, said Colby Ferguson with the Maryland Farm Bureau. The hemp industrys fiscal impact is minimal so far due to its infancy in Maryland, but there are several companies opening in the state to generate jobs that process hemp. Although the Agriculture Department isnt tracking sales data for the industry, the Maryland Hemp Coalition plans to study it this fall when farmers harvest the plant. According to New Frontier Data, a Washington D.C.-based analytics company focused on the cannabis industry, farmers can make anywhere from $2,500 to $75,000 per acre cultivating hemp for CBD, depending on the state and other circumstances. Maryland reported nearly 1,400 acres of hemp in 2019, according to Ferguson. By comparison, Virginia has about 2,200 acres of hemp, West Virginia has nearly 650 acres and Delaware has less than 100 acres. Pennsylvania has the largest production nearby with more than 4,400 acres, and Ferguson said the overwhelming majority of these acres are for the CBD market. Industrial hemp is classified as an agricultural crop at the state and federal level. The Maryland Department of Agriculture already has regulations limiting where hemp can be grown at least 1,000 feet from a school or a park. Ferguson said Kachs legislation sets a bad precedent that a small group of homeowners can dictate what a farmer can grow and where they can grow it. Farmers are already required to obtain a state permit and inspection to grow hemp, but Ferguson said Kachs bill would also require a special exception and public hearing in the county. Additionally, Ferguson said the 500-foot setback could harm new farmers who cant afford to buy a large farm. This bill would virtually eliminate growing of hemp on small farms, Ferguson said. Earlier this year, a group of state lawmakers from Baltimore County attempted to tighten statewide restrictions. Sen. Shelly Hettleman, Del. Jon Cardin and Del. Dana Stein, all Democrats, proposed bills in the General Assembly to prohibit hemp farming near residences, but the bills did not generate enough support from legislators elsewhere. Hettleman supports hemp expansion, but she said the health concerns separate it from basic right-to-farm laws. Shes surprised Baltimore County is the only place reporting concerns, but she acknowledged the Lutherville area has become more suburban, and residents didnt expect hemp would affect their quality of life. I certainly understand a farmers right to grow what they want to grow on their property in the parameters of the law, but I also am concerned about the neighbors and my constituents' quality of life, Hettleman said. Del. David Fraser-Hidalgo, the Montgomery County Democrat who sponsored the bill legalizing Marylands industrial hemp, called it a really complicated issue. The industry has a huge, bright future, Fraser-Hidalgo said, but he acknowledges the legitimate concerns on both sides. He voiced confidence in the countys ability to find a compromise to resolve the situation. They need to tread very carefully," Fraser-Hidalgo said. Those farms have been around longer than those residential areas have been around, so I think it is concerning if youre going to tell farmers what they can and cannot grow." OBrien, with Hemp Hills Farm, said hes worried Baltimore County could lose out on taxes and revenue from hemp if restrictions are enacted. It would devastate [hemp farming], OBrien said. I would be out of business and so would other people. Kach said he might delay a vote on the proposal to give both sides of the debate more time to work on the issue. Either way, OBrien is certain the science and the industry of hemp will expand as the plants uses become more widespread. In the next 10 years, every hospital and medical institution will have entire departments dedicated" to how the body reacts to CDB and other hemp products, OBrien said. 2020 The Baltimore Sun Visit The Baltimore Sun at www.baltimoresun.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A fire ripped through an infant school building in the early hours of this morning - causing 'extensive damage' just two days after a school four miles away was razed. Ravensdale Infant and Nursery School in Mickleover was seen alight at 1.38am and Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS) was called. The incident comes after a 'devastating' fire just more than four miles away at St Mary's School in Darley Abbey, which resulted in the total loss of the building. Some 12 fire engines and 75 firefighters from across the county raced to the scene today and two aerial ladder platforms, a command unit, water carrier and welfare unit were used. There were no casualties as a result of the blaze, the fire service said. Ravensdale Infant School in Mickleover was seen alight at 1.38am - prompting Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS) to race to the scene. Pictured, flames ripped through the building Local resident Lucy Shepherd told the Derbyshire Telegraph: 'At about two o clock we heard voices outside so we came to the window to look and police cars and fire engines lined the road, trying to get access to the school. 'I checked on my son and all we could see was plumes of black smoke behind a bungalow opposite us. The sky was glowing red.' The school's headteacher Lorna Blancenot, who was on the scene from 2am, said she was 'devastated' and 'in shock' after a large portion of the school building was destroyed. She revealed she told parents about the fire at 5.30am, adding that she didn't know what had caused the blaze. At St Mary's School, six fire engines spent the day tackling the blaze after they were called to the scene at 5.24am on Saturday. Commenting on the Mickleover fire, area manager Clive Stanbrook said: 'Firefighters from across Derbyshire have been working hard since early this morning fighting the fire at Ravensdale Infant School. 'Crews worked swiftly to control the spread of the fire, with the fire now under control; however, sadly, large parts of the infant school have suffered extensive damage. We expect to have a presence at the fire throughout the day. Photographs show the after-effects of the fire, with collapsed ceilings leaving debris and charred wood scattered across the floor of the school Other images show plumes of black smoke rising over the building as firefighters try to dampen the roaring flames 'Tragically this is the second school fire in Derbyshire in less than 48 hours, with St Mary's School in Darley Abbey being destroyed by a severe fire on Saturday morning.' 'Both fires are now under separate investigation and we will continue to work jointly with our police colleagues to investigate the cause of each of these fires.' Photographs taken of the fire showed plumes of black smoke rising over the building as firefighters tried to dampen the roaring flames. Other images show the after-effects of the fire, with collapsed ceilings leaving debris and charred wood scattered across the floor of the school. Some 12 fire engines from across the county were called to the school and two aerial ladder platforms, a command unit, water carrier and welfare unit were used There were no casualties as a result of the blaze (pictured), the fire service said. Fire crews will remain at the scene today Derbyshire's Chief Fire Officer, Gavin Tomlinson, tweeted after the blaze, saying: 'Shocked and saddened that Derbyshire has seen a second devastating school fire in the same weekend. 'Crews from DFRS have been firefighting throughout the night. 'Tragically most of the infant school lost. Will work with the National Fire Chiefs Council to make new schools safer.' Residents living near Ravensdale Infant School have been asked to keep windows and doors closed and to avoid the area due to smoke from the fire. A firefighter aimed a hose at the blaze. Crews in attendance were from Nottingham Road, Alfreton, Ripley, Ilkeston, Melbourne, Clay Cross, Crich, Duffield, Kingsway, Chesterfield, Long Eaton, Ashbourne and Nottinghamshires Stapleford Anyone living nearby has been advised to shut their doors and windows to keep smoke out as the fire continued to smoulder this morning (pictured) Police are investigating Saturday's fire as a possible arson after an apparent break-in before firefighters were called, according to reports. The blaze was said to be 'well-developed' when firefighters arrived and despite their efforts, the fire resulted in the 'total loss' of a building, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has said. According to the BBC, the city council was told an alarm was raised about a break-in shortly before the fire service was called. In a statement on Twitter, the force said: 'Investigations are ongoing to establish the cause of the fire and anyone with information should contact the force with ref 160-031020.' Elon Musk-led Tesla may well look at the IT city Bengaluru as a possible investment destination to set up a vehicle manufacturing unit, if the Karnataka governments bid to woo him to the State works. Soon after the Covid-19 related lockdowns, the Karnataka government has gone on an overdrive to get international investors to expand to Karnataka and bring in more investments - and thus jobs - to the State. As part of this outreach to big guns in every sector, Tesla too was tapped to set up a gigafactory - a manufacturing unit for solar panels and batteries - in Bengaluru. Tesla, arguably the worlds biggest disruptor in the electric vehicle space, is currently setting up a gigafactory in Germany. The company is valued at over $386 Billion, double the valuation of its nearest rival Toyota. Toyota already has a car manufacturing plant in Bidadi, a Bengaluru suburb, where it is in a joint venture with Kirloskar. On Twitter, its CEO Elon Musk said next year for sure," in reply to a question by a Tesla fan club asking when will Teslas India entry would materialise. Tesla Club India, a Twitter handle that claims it wants to push for greater EV and solar awareness in India, had asked Musk whether there is any progress on this. Musks reply that Tesla would for sure" enter India next year has led to speculation on which state or city he may zero in on, for his plans. Even as government officials confirmed that they have approached the company as part of its campaign to draw investments, it led to upbeat denizens get into a social media race to build pressure on other governments to woo Tesla on their own. Also Watch: While some asked Tamil Nadu chief Minister Edappadi Palaniswamy to please try to get Tesla automobile plant in Chennai (TN has long been known for its auto sector investments, Chennai even sometimes referred to as the Detroit of India), there were others asking Telangana Industry Minister KT Rama Rao why he wasnt pitching Telangana as a potential destination. Karnataka state is keen on Tesla to have R&D Centre, KTR garu, I hope its not too late for you to make a pitch for Tesla on behalf of Telangana state," said one Hyderabad citizen on Twitter. Another citizen directly tweeted to Musk, asking him if he has received any propositions from Telangana. The Karnataka government, meanwhile, said talks are still preliminary, and other aspects such as land identification are yet to take off. We had reached out to several corporates to understand their expansion requirements. And what we are doing with Tesla is also on the same lines," said a senior bureaucrat who is in the core team leading the efforts. We have suggested it and I believe they are in the process of making up their minds," he added. The government functionaries shied away from talking specifics, as they were worried it may backfire on the project. Etah: Uttar Pradesh Minister Azam Khan on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of interfering into the religious matters of Muslims, including the community men marrying more than once, saying nobody has right to do so. Addressing a rally in Etah he said no government has interfered in the matters of the religion of Muslims regarding three marriages, but Modi is interfering and wants a discussion on this and a ban on it. None of them has got the right to interfere into the religious matters of Muslims when no one was interfering with the marriage rituals of other communities, he added. Khan accused Modi of helping promoter of now defunct Kingfisher Airlines Vijay Mallya to escape and also waiving off his loans. Claiming that there was no fight with any party except BJP in Uttar Pradesh assembly polls, he said the party was interfering into the lives of the people. Also read: UP Elections 2017: Azam Khan compares PM Modi to Ravana Bhartiya Janata Party demands cancellation of candidature of Azams son for being underage For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu spoke on Monday and agreed to advance bilateral cooperation on handling the coronavirus pandemic. They also agreed to hold a digital conference on innovation in the field of solar energy. "The two leaders agreed to continue and advance bilateral cooperation in the fight against the coronavirus with emphasis on technological cooperation and tests," Israeli PM's official twitter handle said. "The two (leaders) also agreed to hold a digital conference on innovation in the field of solar energy in order to jointly achieve more inexpensive solutions that will benefit the economies of both countries and the entire world," Israeli PM's office also tweeted. A statement read, "The leaders positively assessed the progress in bilateral cooperation in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, especially in the fields of research, field trials of diagnostic tools and vaccine development." It also added, "They agreed on the importance of close cooperation in these important areas not only for the benefit of the people of the two countries but also for the greater good of humanity." Both the leaders also reviewed ongoing cooperation in the areas of water and agriculture, health, trade, and start-up and innovation, and discussed further deepening of these ties. The leaders agreed to continue holding regular consultations to share assessments on emerging regional and global challenges and opportunities, and for providing guidance to advance the close and robust bilateral strategic partnership. Prime Minister Modi conveyed warm greetings on the Jewish New Year and the Jewish festival of Sukkot to Prime Minister Netanyahu and the people of Israel. India and Israel have been cooperating in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic with a high-level delegation from Israel carrying out trials on a rapid testing kit in India. It was the fourth telephonic conversation between the two leaders since the outbreak of the pandemic. India sent a "much-needed" consignment of medicines at Israel's request which was reciprocated by Israel when it sent a consignment of ventilators to Delhi. A 440-pound black bear has been filmed attacking its trainer during a circus show in China after the man allegedly stopped the animal from eating treats thrown by the audience. Terrifying footage shows the giant beast biting and tackling the tamer to the ground while other staff repeatedly hit the animal with sticks, forcing it to let go of their colleague. The animal trainer survived without severe injuries as the bear had its teeth sawed off as a cub to prevent it from harming people, reported Chinese media. A 440-pound black bear has been filmed attacking its trainer during a circus show in China after the man allegedly stopped the animal from eating treats thrown by the audience The event occurred during a circus performance on Friday in Puyang, Henan province of central China. Horrifying videos show the black bear pinning down its trainer who was struggling to escape inside the fenced stage. A male staff member initially rushed to his colleague's rescue by hitting the animal's back and trying to force it to release the trainer. He was then joined by another two men as they are seen striking the animal with long sticks. The black bear launched the attack after it was beaten by its tamer who prevented it from 'eating treats', a witness said. He told Pear Video: 'A boy threw a sausage [onto the stage]. The bear wanted to eat it, and the tamer wouldn't allow it because it's performing.' The event occurred during a circus performance on Friday in Puyang, Henan province of central China. The animal trainer survived without severe injuries as the bear had its teeth sawed off as a cub to prevent it from harming people, according to Chinese media WHAT ARE ASIATIC BLACK BEARS? Asiatic black bear is also known as moon bear. The species is listed as Appendix I by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, an international agreement between governments aimed to protect endangered animals and plants. Appendix I is the highest category for endangered species, and according to the convention, animals in the category are threatened with extinction. Advertisement The trainer survived with minor injuries on his arm from being scratched by the bear, according to reports. He told Henan Television that the black bear had its teeth sawed off when it was younger to prevent it from attacking people. The circus animal, weighing 200 kilos (441 pounds), is believed to be an Asian black bear, which is classed as vulnerable to extinction with a decreasing population and listed under the second class of wildlife protection in China. The event sparked outrage on social media as animal lovers and organisations urged authorities to axe such performances. Wendy Higgins, director of international media at Humane Society International, told MailOnline: 'These are living, breathing animals, not props, and in such stressful conditions they can all too easily become a public safety issue too. 'When disturbing scenes such as this are witnessed in China, they are very often met with outpourings of protest by netizens via the country's social media, because calls for better animal welfare in China are growing.' One angered commenter wrote: 'These cruel people would do anything for money. Boycott animal performances!' Another one said: 'It had its teeth sawed? We might as well cut off people's teeth and put them in a cage.' Asian black bear, also known as Asiatic black bear, is classed as vulnerable to extinction with a decreasing population and listed under the second class of wildlife protection in China The circus has been shut down following the Friday incident while being investigated by local officials, reports say. The coronavirus pandemic has shed a light on the issue of animal welfare in China as officials scramble to establish laws to protect wildlife. Similar events in relation to mistreatment towards zoo animals have recently been exposed by web users in the wake of the health crisis. A heart-wrenching video showing a captive tiger appearing to be depressed as it walked in circles non-stop inside a tiny enclosure at a Beijing zoo was revealed in April. Another appalling video shows Chinese visitors using fishing poles to feed captive tigers in a so-called 'interactive programme' offered by a wildlife zoo in south-eastern China's Yunnan province. Hikers trekking near an abandoned mine in an isolated area of Saguache County in southern Colorado found human remains Friday, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation announced. The body, which was found near the Hinsdale County line, appeared to have been there for a long time based on its condition, the agency reported. Officials from the agency and the Saguache County Sheriff's Office will investigate the cause of death and seek the person's identity. An autopsy is scheduled with the Saguache County coroner. There is no evidence that the remains are connected to the Suzanne Morphew investigation, the agency wrote. Morphew, 49, was reported missing after she didn't return from a bike ride near her home in Salida on Mother's Day. Searches for Morphew are still underway in Colorado. Nick Feeney and Andrea McLean in July 2018 in Marbella, Spain. (Alvaro Cabrera/Getty Images) Loose Women star Andrea McLean has revealed she suffered a breakdown and kept suicidal thoughts from her husband. The presenter, who has been married to businessman Nick Feeney since 2017, said she had the thoughts after the couple had a tiny argument last year. McLean has taken a long road to recovery, which she said has been helped by joint therapy sessions with Feeney. She also said that writing of her experience in her self-help book This Girl Is On Fire: How To Live, Learn And Thrive In A Life You Love helped her come to terms with her issues. Read more: Andrea McLean says anxiety struggles left her feeling suicidal Nick Feeney and Andrea McLean in 2015. (David M Benett/Dave Benett/WireImage) But McLean has said she included details about wanting to end her life in the book that her husband didnt know about until he read it. Speaking to Hello! Magazine, she said: "Nick didn't know I had put it in, he didn't even know it had happened. "I hadn't mentioned it at all. I think it was quite a shock for him. Our disagreement was tiny, I can't even remember what it was about." Listen: Andrea McLean talks about coming back from her breakdown Talking in the same piece, Feeney said: To have that in the book, that after our argument, she felt like that was it. That was really, really tough." In This Girl Is On Fire, McLean says: "At my lowest point, I was suicidal. This is the first time I've admitted that. "Just days after I'd collapsed on my make-up artist Donna, I had an argument with my husband, Nick, and then went away on a work trip. Andrea McLean at the launch of her 2018 book Confessions Of A Menopausal Woman at the Devonshire Club in London. (Ian West/PA Images via Getty Images) 'It was a trivial thing, the kind of spat all couples have, and he'd only been mildly annoyed with me. "But I was in such a bad state of mind that it triggered overwhelming anxiety and other negative emotions." Speaking on the White Wine Question Time podcast last month, Feeney said: How did I not realise that she's been trying to tell me? Watch: Andrea McLean opens up about being in a dark place I didn't hear it, so it was actually me that said, we need therapy. And she's like, 'Oh my God, it's not that bad.' I said, It's not about that I need to hear you and I'm not hearing you, so I need to be taught how I can help. The Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org if you are struggling with mental health issues. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan gave an interview to The New York Times (NYT), in which he referred to the war unleashed by Azerbaijan against Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh). Below is the NYT article about the interview. As Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan talked over the phone on Thursday with President Trumps national security adviser, he raised a delicate issue: Why is nothing being done to stop a longtime United States ally, Turkey, from using American-made F-16 jets against ethnic Armenians? Mr. Pashinyans call to the national security adviser, Robert OBrien, followed an eruption of heavy fighting in and around Nagorno-Karabakh. Mr. Pashinyan said in a telephone interview that the conflict has taken on a far more dangerous dimension because of Turkeys direct military intervention in support of Azerbaijan. The conflict has set off alarms about the risks of a wider war and put the United States, with its large and politically influential Armenian Diaspora, in the uncomfortable position of watching Turkey, a vital NATO ally, deploying F-16 jets in support of Armenias enemies. The United States, Mr. Pashinyan said, needs to explain whether it gave those F-16s to bomb peaceful villages and peaceful populations. He said that Mr. OBrien had heard and acknowledged his concerns. Mr. Pashinyan declined to say whether Armenia might be ready to surrender any territory to Azerbaijan as part of a possible peace settlement, insisting that this was not up to him but a matter for the leaders of Nagorno-Karabakh. For Armenia, Mr. Pashinyan said, the current fighting, which began Sept. 27 after months of rising tensions, poses an existential threat because of the role of Turkey, whose precursor, the Ottoman Empire, killed an estimated 1.5 million Armenians at the end of World War I. The U.S. Congress and many countries have declared the killings genocide, a wording that Turkey strenuously rejects. BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - U.K. stocks rose on Monday, with rising crude prices, an easing of the worst fears about U.S. President Donald Trump's health and hopes for one last economic stimulus before the U.S. election helping underpin investor sentiment. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen have reportedly agreed to extend the Brexit negotiations for a month. The benchmark FTSE 100 rose 39 points, or 0.7 percent, to 5,941 after rising 0.4 percent on Friday. Self-storage company Big Yellow Group was little changed after saying it secured planning consent for an about 106,000 sq ft store at its site in Kings Cross, London. Engineering company Weir Group jumped more than 16 percent. The company is selling its oil and gas division to U.S. heavy equipment maker Caterpillar for $405 million. BP Plc advanced 1.5 percent, Royal Dutch Shell rallied 2.2 percent and Tullow Oil added 2.8 percent as oil prices rose about 3 percent amid an escalating workers' strike in Norway. Cineworld shares plunged as much as 31 percent after the company said it would temporarily shut its movie theatres in the United States and the U.K. and is 'assessing several sources of additional liquidity.' Greencore Group slumped 6.7 percent. The manufacturer of convenience food said it estimates full-year revenue to drop 14 percent. In economic releases, the IHS Markit/CIPS Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for the services sector dropped to 56.1 in September from August's five-year high of 58.8. The decline was smaller than an initial 'flash' estimate of 55. 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. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 00:16:25|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close NAIROBI, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- A number of Kenyan institutions of higher learning opened their doors to faculty members and students on Monday after nearly seven months of closure meant to curb the spread of COVID-19. Education officials said the decision to resume in-person learning at the tertiary institutions was informed by the declining risk of COVID-19 transmissions and deaths countrywide amid strict adherence to containment measures. George Magoha, cabinet secretary, Ministry of Education said that universities, mid-level colleges and technical and vocational training institutes (TVETs) had put solid measures in place to ensure their reopening does not compromise the health of students and tutors. "A rigorous assessment conducted by the government in the last few weeks revealed that a good number of institutions of higher learning are adequately prepared to re-admit students," Magoha said during a tour of central Kenya counties. These institutions have invested in COVID-19 prevention measures like proper sanitation and temperature screening at the entrance, he added. Kenya's ministry of education on Sept. 29 said that phased reopening of tertiary institutions would commence on Oct. 5, amid confidence in their ability to shield learners and tutors from COVID-19 risks. Magoha said that final year candidates would be the first to report to universities and colleges but were required to socially distance themselves while in lecture halls and observe hand hygiene to minimize the risk of contracting the virus. "The reopening of these institutions of higher learning will also be pegged on their ability to test, isolate and contact trace in case a COVID-19 positive case is discovered," said Magoha. He said that community transmission of coronavirus had declined significantly across the country, hence paving the way for the resumption of in-person learning at colleges and universities. "It is our hope the country will flatten the curve soon to facilitate the full reopening of learning institutions," said Magoha. "The process has already started in neighboring countries and we have the capacity to manage it without exposing students to the risk of COVID-19," he added President Uhuru Kenyatta in late March suspended learning at basic and tertiary institutions after the initial COVID-19 positive cases were reported in the country to avert widespread transmission. The move which affected nearly 18 million learners was billed as a game-changer in the fight against a pandemic that has devastated key sectors of the economy while disrupting livelihoods. Kenyatta in his televised address to the nation on Sept. 28 emphasized that reopening of schools and colleges will only be conducted in a manner that does not jeopardize the health of young learners and their tutors. "The most important question is not when the reopening of learning institutions will commence but whether these facilities are capable of mitigating the risk of COVID-19 to students and teaching staff," said Kenyatta. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 21:14:28|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close LUSAKA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Jack Chola is a well-known and respected member of the Misisi Compound, a popular slum located in the heart of Zambia's capital Lusaka. Chola's popularity stems from the fact that he is an active member of a team of volunteer teachers that serve in community schools in the Misisi Compound. Like many of Zambia's community school teachers, Chola works under very difficult conditions and has to work with very minimal support and resources. "My greatest joy comes from seeing children make to grade 8 which is secondary school," said Chola, who has been a community school teacher for over seven years and currently serving as a volunteer teacher at the Misisi Community School. According to him, education is the best equalizer that offers opportunities for children from disadvantaged communities to look forward to a brighter future. "I think education remains the best tool for countering poverty and other social ills confronting humanity. Beyond just learning how to read and write, having the opportunity to be in class also exposes one to ideas and knowledge that they would otherwise not have," Chola asserts. Every year on October 5 as the world commemorates "World Teachers' Day", community school teachers who continue to contribute to the educational needs of poorer communities are seldom celebrated. In Zambia, community school teachers who mostly volunteer with very basic training in teaching have been instrumental in meeting the education gap of children from vulnerable and low-income communities. Most of these teachers are often overwhelmed by the many children that need to be in class. At the Misisi community school, for instance, there are only five members of staff overseeing over 500 children. Notwithstanding these challenges, these volunteers press on with a desire to help educate children from vulnerable households and go an extra mile just to provide a service. "Many families and children in the slums and rural areas of Zambia are not able to afford school uniforms, shoes, books, and other expenses that the government schools may have to require for a child to be enrolled in school," explains Simpson Nyirongo, a teacher at a community in Lusaka's John Laing compound. Nyirongo, who also sits on a number of community development initiatives boards, further explains that in some cases lack of government-run school has pushed communities to invest in community schools, which are often run by volunteers or untrained teachers. He adds that community schools in Zambia are mostly community-based and faith-based initiatives that exist to secure education opportunities for learners outside the government school system. Enditem A rugby-mad teenager nicknamed 'Golden Boy' has been named as the man found dead in a lake in Wigan on Sunday, with three other teenagers arrested for murder. The body of Samson Price, 18, was found in Scotsman's Flash, a lake in Wigan, at 2pm yesterday. Three teenagers aged 17, 18 and 19 have been arrested on suspicion of murder. Family and friends had grown concerned for the 18-year-old's safety after he failed to return from a fishing trip on Saturday night. They launched an appeal on social media asking if people had seen him but, on Sunday, his body was found. Samson's devastated parents shared their heartbreak today as they paid tribute to their son. Mother Rosana said: 'He never had an enemy. He never held a grudge and couldn't be upset. He just had no badness in him, he just wanted everyone to enjoy themselves and for everyone to be happy. Samson Price, 18 (pictured with his mother Rosana), was found in Scotsman's Flash, a lake in Wigan, at 2pm yesterday Samson's devastated parents shared their heartbreak today as they paid tribute to their son 'He was so proud to be from Wigan. He loved Wigan. He was everybody's friend. People gravitated towards him. 'One of his friends set up a Go Fund Me page because they wanted him to have a send-off like a king because of the impact he had on their life. 'He was just loved by everybody. He was so spoilt. His nickname was Golden Boy because he was spoiled and got away with everything. He lit up a room. 'There will never be another like him. He was the light of my life and now the light's gone.' Samson, who had a sister Atlanta, 20, was a rugby player and watcher and was also a big music fan, with a love of Arctic Monkeys and Liam Gallagher. He had just started a plumbing course at Wigan and Leigh College and had a jet washing business with his friend. He was 'very clever' and 'had a bright future ahead of him', his family said. Today around 30 of Samson's friends braved the pouring rain to pay tribute to him, close to the location where he was found dead. Today around 30 of Samson's friends braved the pouring rain to pay tribute to him, close to the location where he was found They set off fireworks and downed bottles of beer from a bridge overlooking the beauty spot. The footpaths surrounding Scotsman's Flash, Wigan, remained closed while forensic officers searched nearby woodland for clues. An investigation into his death has been launched. A friend at the scene said: 'I've been told he went out fishing and never came home. I can't believe he has gone. 'I went to both primary and secondary school with him. 'He was a great lad and as you can see from the number of people here, was very popular. He'll be missed so much.' A GMP statement added: 'Enquiries are in their infancy and officers remain at the scene whilst investigation work is carried out. 'Officers are keeping an open mind as the circumstances surrounding the man's death are established.' JEFFERSON CITY After refusing to disclose how many workers in his office tested positive for the coronavirus, Gov. Mike Parson relented Monday and said four aides have had the virus and, like him, have recovered. In a press release issued Monday afternoon, the Republican governor said he was announcing the positive tests consistent with state policy and transparency of sharing statistics regarding COVID-19 and state employees. Only four staffers have tested positive since the beginning of Missouris fight with COVID-19. This includes Governors Office staff, Governors Mansion staff, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol Governor Security Division, the six-paragraph release said. The number doesnt count Parson and his wife, Teresa, who announced Sept. 23 that they had tested positive, sending them into isolation at the height of the campaign season. The latest announcement came hours after the Post-Dispatch reported that more than 1,800 state employees under his control have contracted the potentially deadly disease. According to Parsons Office of Administration, the Department of Corrections has seen the most workers with the coronavirus 646 while the Department of Agriculture has seen the fewest with just three cases. Other hard-hit agencies include the Department of Mental Health with 393 cases and the Department of Public Safety with 211 cases. In all, 1,842 employees of 16 agencies have tested positive since the virus began spreading earlier this year, the office said. Of those, 1,259 have recovered. The state has about 53,000 employees. Parson spokeswoman Kelli Jones earlier wouldnt respond to Post-Dispatch inquiries about how many of the three dozen employees who work within the governors office on the second floor of the Capitol have tested positive. Such a number could indicate the extent to which Parsons closest advisers have been exposed while they traveled with him to events prior to him announcing hed caught the virus on Sept. 23. The office earlier confirmed a number of staffers on his team were in quarantine and working from home after the governor and first lady tested positive. The Monday announcement said all staff meeting the definition of close contact were tested following the positive test results. The four staffers who tested positive have recovered. Parson, 65, returned to work Monday after isolating in the Governors Mansion for 10 days. He traveled to Bolivar over the weekend to join the first lady, 67, who isolated at their home in Bolivar. On Monday, he also resumed campaign strategy meetings as he faces off against Democratic Auditor Nicole Galloway for a full, four-year term on Nov. 3. In the morning, for example, Parson was at one of his campaign offices in downtown Jefferson City. Among those in attendance were Jones and Parsons chief of staff, Aaron Willard. As she was leaving the office, the Post-Dispatch asked for a quick interview with the governor. Jones, who later said she was on leave from her taxpayer-paid position while visiting the campaign office, said that would be unlikely. I doubt it, she said. In the evening press release, Parson said, Teresa and I are so grateful that we are two of well over 100,000 Missourians that have recovered from this virus. We are glad to be back and want to again thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. We are humbled every day to be surrounded by such great people across the state. Parsons plans for the week include several ceremonies in the capitol, St. Joseph and St. Louis, according to a schedule released by his office. He also was scheduled to attend a fundraiser in Macon on Monday night. Galloway, meanwhile, had a weekend of events, including a stop in Ballwin to campaign with Sen. Jill Schupp, D-Creve Coeur, who is running against incumbent Republican Rep. Ann Wagner for the 2nd Congressional District seat. Updated at 5 p.m. with information about the governors staff. Concerned about COVID-19? Sign up now to get the most recent coronavirus headlines and other important local and national news sent to your email inbox daily. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. The Arab League head has warned Turkey over its role in increased regional tension in the Caucasus and Mediterranean regions, saying that it will not end well for Ankara, Arab News reported. Secretary-General of the Arab League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, said in a televised statement: Turkey is facing a group of differences with regional and superpower parties to a degree that will not end well for it or its leadership. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is interfering in Egypt, Syria, Iraq and Libya militarily, he added. Erdogan also interfered in the Caucasus between Azerbaijan and Armenia, collided with Greece and Cyprus, and attacked the eastern Mediterranean in the [natural] gas areas, which made a large and influential country like France send fighters and an aircraft carrier to Cyprus. Even Italy, which was understanding of many of the Turkish positions, went to France. Everyone is telling Erdogan now that he will face consequences for his actions. It annoys me that the Syrians use mercenaries to fight with Azerbaijan against Armenia ... It is very sad that Syrian mercenaries are being used by Erdogan in cases that are unrelated to Turkey, Aboul Gheit said. Titomic to additively manufacture high-performance metals satellite structures using TKF Lockheed Martin to validate RMIT & Titomics TKF Satellite Parts TKF's significant build rates of high-performance metals will reduce lead-times from months to hours Global 'small satellite' market expected to reach USD $18.3B by 2026, at CAGR of 20.28%1 Melbourne-based industrial additive manufacturing company,Titomic Limited, has entered into a commercial research and development agreement with RMIT University (RMIT) to be conducted on behalf of Lockheed Martin a major aerospace and defence company. The study will assess the capabilities of Titomic Kinetic Fusion (TKF) to create structural satellite parts made from a high-performance metal. Titomics participation in this joint research project will analyse the various capabilities of both traditional and additive manufacturing methods relative to radiation shielding within satellites. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201004005017/en/ Titomic Kinetic Fusion will be used to additively manufacture satellite components. (Photo: Business Wire) Under this research agreement, Titomic will manufacture high-performance, metal demonstration samples for satellite parts using its industrial-scale additive manufacturing process, Titomic Kinetic Fusion. This research project may also lead to commercial opportunities for Titomic within the space and defence sectors following the successful validation of the additively manufactured demonstration satellite parts. The small satellite components (cubes) market for commercial and government applications in the main areas of telecommunications, broadcasting, and data communications, with the market size anticipated to grow from USD $4.18B in 2018 to USD $18.30B by 2026, at a CAGR of 20.28%1. Titomics Managing Director Jeff Lang stated: Titomic is excited to be involved in this RMIT joint research initiative alongside the global defence and aerospace prime, Lockheed Martin, to provide significant benefit for all involved. As we demonstrate the unique capabilities of Titomic Kinetic Fusion for the additive manufacture of satellite structures using high-performance metals and super alloys, we are also enabling exponentially faster production to reduce lead-times for the space industry, from months to hours, compared to traditional processes. RMIT Universitys Professor Milan Brandt stated: "RMIT Centre for Additive Manufacturing is excited to be working with long term partner Lockheed Martin and Titomic to advance the state of the art in advanced manufacturing methods for protection of satellites from space radiation. The combination of additive manufacturing and highly-dense materials for this application offers new opportunities for not only increased radiation resistance but significantly reduced lead times for manufacture of new satellites." Visithttps://titomic.com/ 1. Fortune Business Insights https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/small-satellite-market-101917 2. AustraliasCriticalMineralsStrategy2019 https://www.industry.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-03/australias-critical-minerals-strategy-2019.pdf View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201005005043/en/ As the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) look to Sudan as possibly the next Arab country to sign a normalization agreement with Israel, Hamas is hoping that Khartoum will stay true to its support for the Palestinians. The United States is presently negotiating Sudans removal from its designation as a foreign terrorist organization. Sudans designation as a state sponsor of terrorist groups dates back to when Osama bin Laden set up shop there in the late 1990s, leading to US attacks on al-Qaeda assets in 1998. In those days, Sudan also emerged as one of the few friends of the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement, or Hamas. From the outset of its founding in 1987, Hamas ideological links to the Muslim Brotherhood gave it access to the widespread organizations network across both the Arab and Muslim world. Its launching was to many Islamists in the region a dream come true, given the fact that the Palestinian resistance movement had been dominated by leftists and seculars who gave the struggle a nonreligious narrative and posed a barrage of accusations to the Palestinian Islamic movement in regard to its commitment to the cause. Among those who embraced the newly rising group was Sudan, which witnessed in 1989 a coup by pro-Muslim Brotherhood army officers. Over the years, Sudan was transformed into a regional base for Hamas, where many of the group members resided and were offered Sudanese passports they could travel with. Sudans alliance with the Palestinian group exposed it to foreign pressure and on some levels to military strikes, due to allegations that its territories were used to transport weapons to the Gaza Strip. Unconfirmed reports stated that a Hamas operative was killed in a January 2009 airstrike in Sudan. He was said to be the successor of Mahmoud Mabhouh, another senior Hamas commander who was killed in the UAE in January 2010. A decade later, Sudans President Omar al-Bashir was toppled and replaced with a provisional administration that is now part of an ongoing US effort to reach a normalization agreement with Israel just a few weeks after the UAE and Bahrain signed normalization deals with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington. Israels interest in Sudan isn't just about getting new Arabs to its side in the region, although thats clearly a prize. It is also denying a group such as Hamas a vital corridor that bridges the distance between Gaza and its main weapons provider, Iran. There were reports that Sudan asked members of the group to leave the country, though Al-Monitors sources said no such steps were taken by the authorities in Khartoum. Sudan has never failed us in Palestine at any level the resistance level, political level, diplomatic level so therefore, definitely we feel the pain for what is happening on the foreign relations level in that beloved country, Khaled Kadoomi, Hamas representative in Tehran, told Al-Monitor in an exclusive interview. Kadoomi explained that his movement believes the people in Sudan are against any normalization of ties with Israel and that previous examples Egypt and Jordan prove that not only these countries suffered on all levels because of ties with Israel, but the majority of citizens refused to engage in such policies. Hamas is no doubt rethinking its regional strategy. It has found a friend in Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who last week brokered a road map for long-elusive unity with Fatah, the West Bank-based party of President Mahmoud Abbas. The devil is in the details, as the Palestinian movement and the region remain in flux, grappling with the costs and benefits of normalization, holding onto to the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative or doubling down on "resistance," championed by Iran and to an extent by Erdogan. Hamas of course is most at ease in the resistance camp, with Palestinian Islamic Jihad, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, Lebanons Hezbollah and others, calling for the liberation of Palestine and Jerusalem as its unified capital. I think that this so-called normalization of relations is by itself aside from our own opinion against the United Nations resolutions and against the so-called Arab initiative that promotes the two-state solution, Kadoomi noted, hinting that the main question asked not only in the Arab world but also in Israel is what is the value of those states? The Israeli opposition itself is asking Netanyahu what is the geopolitical weight of the UAE or Bahrain? And if its about business, the Israeli intelligence minister mentioned that between $4 billion and $5 billion will be exchanged between the UAE and Israel within the next five years. Iran's trade with the UAE is more than $13 billion annually." Kadoomi played a major role along with other Hamas officials in bridging ties between Tehran and the organization following the rift over the crisis in Syria. He said that Iran is the top provider of support for his movement, in terms of logistics and weapons. It is holistic support. It's not only about logistic and weapons which is the backbone of our resistance but we are partners. We are now facing a common enemy and we are together creating new means to overcome all the obstacles. We will surprise them we will surprise them more than they ever thought. Our strategy is to defend our own people and to return the legitimate rights of our nation. The Iranian brothers promised to continue their support to us, because it is their battle too. And Israel is a declared enemy to Iran also, Kadoomi added. In regard to the types of weapons Hamas received from Iran recently, Kadoomi said, It is not only about the Fajr missiles which is no longer a secret not about how Gen. Qasem Soleimani and his team transferred the technology inside Palestine. Today we have a common enemy and we have no option but to advance our expertise and technologies in order to achieve our objective. We will overcome all obstacles. Overcoming these obstacles means coordinating with members of the resistance axis, according to Kadoomi. While mentioning Iran and Hezbollah along with other Palestinian groups, he stressed, however, that as part of this strategy there are efforts to reconcile with Syria, though nothing concrete has been achieved. In general we have the same stance vis-a-vis Palestine, all of us in the resistance axis, we are solving all our minor differences. It is no secret that Israel is also contributing to the crisis situation in Syria and in other countries [in the region]. So we are all facing the same enemy, he said. But what about the strategy among the Palestinians themselves, relations with the Palestinian Authority and other main challenges? The Hamas officials highlighted that meetings between Hamas and Fatah in Beirut on Sept. 3 and in Istanbul on Sept. 22 resulted in a new plan to reform the PLO and launch a popular resistance movement or lets say a committee to oversee activities, social and public events that are aimed at the enemy and carry the goal and objective of liberation. Luke Hemsworth is no stranger to surveillance. Most fans know him from HBOs sci-fi series Westworld, where he plays Ashley Stubbs, the security chief who monitors guests via video feeds. But surveillance also plays a central role in Death of Me, now available on-demand. Hemsworth and Maggie Q play Neil and Christine, a married couple vacationing on a remote island in Thailand. Neil is a travel blogger who is documenting their journey via a vlog. The couple awakens in their vacation rental covered in bruises and dirt but cant recall how they got there. They play back Neils footage from the previous night and watch in horror as Neil appears to snap Christines neck and bury her body. Neil and Christine have to unravel the mystery of the found footage and Christines death, all while the islands inhabitants creepily look on. Also Read: 9 Big Questions We Still Have After That Wild 'Westworld' Season 3 Finale That surveillance from the camera and the islanders sets the unsettling tone of the movie, Hemsworth tells TheWrap. I think its something that creeps into everything that we kinda do nowadays. The threat of being watched all the time. Somewhere, somehow, the Australian actor explained. It makes for an interesting comment about your accountability and what youre able to get away with. In Death of Me, the mystery is whether or not Neil literally gets away with murder. The film delves into some more traditional horror elements that wont be spoiled here, but working on it has changed Hemsworths perspective on technology. Now theres so many cameras everywhere. I notice it more coming back to Australia. Theres a chance that people are involved in peoples lives a lot more, he said. I dont think its necessarily a good thing. That eerie feeling of people watching is one of the things I cant stand. I do my utmost to get away from it as much as I can. The kids dont have phones. Ive definitely started to use my phone less and less, he added. Story continues As for his role on Westworld, where his characters whole job is to watch others, Hemsworth tells TheWrap hes excited to return. I think the plan is still to shoot next year, he said but noted that restrictions around travel and production due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic are still in place. As to when, what, where how, who and whether it happens or not is another question. Death of Me, directed by Darren Lynn Bousman, is available on-demand now. Check out the trailer below: Read original story Death of Me': Luke Hemsworth Talks Surveillance and Scares in New Horror Film At TheWrap Tesla has contacted Indonesia informally about the possibility of an investment in the country, which is a major producer of the battery metal nickel, a senior Indonesian official said on Monday. We need further discussion with Tesla, Reuters quoted Ayodhia Kalake, a senior official at the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime and Investment, as saying. Kalake added that it was an early discussion with no details yet. Tesla wants to ramp up production of batteries as it increases EV production and models, and its chief executive, Elon Musk, has recently pleaded with nickel miners to produce more nickel, which would support the global expansion of batteries and electric vehicles. Tesla will give you a giant contract for a long period of time if you mine nickel efficiently and in an environmentally sensitive way. So hopefully, this message goes out to all mining companies, Musk said on the Q2 earnings call at the end of July. The nickel-based cells have a higher energy density, so they have a longer range, Teslas chief executive noted on the call. In an exchange on Twitter several days later, Musk said that Nickel is the biggest challenge for high-volume, long-range batteries! Australia & Canada are doing pretty well. US nickel production is objectively very lame. Indonesia is great! Analysts said at the time that obtaining nickel with a low-carbon footprint could prove difficult for Tesla, as miners in Indonesia are reportedly pumping the waste in open seas. Last month, reports emerged that Tesla was in talks with Canadas Giga Metals to potentially help it develop a nickel mine and buy the low-emissions nickel production for its batteries. Also in September, another Indonesian official said that the country had signed a deal to build a lithium battery factory in the country with LG Chem of South Korea and Chinas Contemporary Amperex Technology Ltd (CATL), both of which are Tesla suppliers. On Teslas Battery Day in September, Musk said that Tesla plans to increase, not reduce battery cell purchases from Panasonic, LG & CATL (possibly other partners too). By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: A quick-thinking mom outwitted a stranger who offered to buy her 2-year-old child for $1,500 at a Shoreline, Washington, transit center, sheriffs officials say. The woman declined but got the 43-year-old mans email and phone number in case she changed her mind, the King County Sheriffs Office reported on Facebook. She contacted the sheriffs office after the Sept. 22 incident and passed on the mans contact information, deputies wrote. A Metro Transit Police Street Crimes Unit detective posing as the mom contacted the man and told him she was 17 years old, the release says. Saying he was no longer interested in buying the child, the man pressed her to work for him as a prostitute. Detectives arranged to meet the man Monday and arrested him on suspicion of promoting commercial sexual abuse of a minor, deputies reported. After his arrest, the man asked to make a phone call and advised a friend to clean out his hotel room, the release says. Police searched the room and found a stolen firearm. The sheriffs office did not release the mans name. A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Connecticut has revealed a correlation between the prevalence of particular clades of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the growth rate of the associated illness coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Derek Corcoran and colleagues found that models of early COVID-19 growth dynamics that included the different clades the virus has mutated into significantly improved growth rate predictions. Including clades in the models was also more important than incorporating the SARS-CoV-2 variant D614G, which has been associated with increased viral load and infectivity. More specifically, a higher prevalence of the clades 19A and 19B, which emerged during the Wuhan outbreak, correlated with lower growth rates. Higher prevalence of the clades 20A and 20C, which emerged from 19A and was prominent early on in the European outbreak, correlated with higher growth rates. The researchers say that without intervention, COVID-19 has the potential to grow more quickly in regions dominated by the 20A and 20C clades, which includes most of South and North America. A pre-print version of the paper is available on the server medRxiv*, while the article undergoes peer review. Proportions of each clade globally (top) and by region (bottom). Clade 19 (blues) diminished over time, while clade 20 (reds) increased during that same period. Among the type 20 clades, 20A and 20B have increased to similar proportions globally while 20C had more moderate proportional growth. However, clade 20C has increased most dramatically in South and North America, two regions where COVID-19 has subsequently grown quickly. The dashed line represents the last date used for fitting the models. Models do not currently include different genetic clades As SARS-CoV-2 has spread around across the globe infecting millions of people, it has mutated into divergent clades with different prevalence rates, depending on geographical region. Although most of the mutations involved are expected to be inconsequential, some mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein have been proposed to affect the critical stage at which the virus infects human cells, which could alter disease transmission and dynamics. If true, then we expect an increased growth rate of reported COVID-19 cases in regions dominated by viruses with these altered proteins, say the researchers. However, the models currently used to inform mitigation measures and healthcare capacity generally assume equivalent transmission probability and pathogenicity. Understanding if genetic clades differ in their infectivity and, if so, where they are most prevalent would aid efforts to design effective intervention strategies that control the virus and end the pandemic, writes the team. Although some clinical studies have shown the SARS-CoV-2 variant D614G is associated with increased viral load, it is unclear whether carriers of this mutation are more infectious, and there is no evidence to suggest the variant is associated with increased virulence. Most common clade on each polity as seen in the map, clades 19A and 19B dominate in Oceania and southeast Asia, whereas clades 20A, 20B and 20C dominate in South America, Europe and North America. What did the researchers do? Corcoran and colleagues tested whether the prevalence of certain clades or the D614G variant within a population was associated with a higher growth rate of the disease. The team-based their model on a previous model of early infection dynamics that highlighted the effects of other potentially important factors, including ultraviolet light, temperature, humidity, and the age structure of populations. What did the researchers find? The researchers found no evidence that variant D164G alone contributed to the early growth rate of COVID-19. Clade assignment, on the other hand, did enhance the ability to describe COVID-19 growth dynamics early on in the pandemic. Including clade in the models significantly improved predictions compared with previous studies that only included weather and demographic variables. Higher proportions of clades 20A and 20C were associated with higher rates of COVID-19 growth, while higher proportions of clades 19 A and 19B were associated with lower growth rates. Predicted COVID-19 growth rate (color gradient from dark blue to yellow) based on the interaction between relative humidity and the proportion of clade 20C. Higher proportions of clade 20C and lower relative humidity are associated with higher values of COVID-19 growth rate. The clumps are a byproduct of GAMsmoothing across the discrete nature of classifications by nodes in Boosted Regression Trees. Humidity seemed to play a role The team also found that humidity seemed to interact with viral clades in a way that may increase or decrease infectivity. For example, clades 20A and 20C generated the highest growth rates when they were coupled with low humidity. The researchers say this suggests that the impact of clade identity might be more important when coupled with certain weather conditions. Growth rates might increase in Africa, South America, and North America The team also reports that during August, Africa, South America, and North America had the highest proportion of clades 20A and 20C, suggesting the potential for increased COVID-19 growth rates in these three continental areas in the future. Corcoran and colleagues point out that although a correlation between COVID-19 growth rate and the prevalence of certain clades was identified, no conclusions can yet be drawn about causality. Causality and correlation could only be separated out through controlled trials. In the meantime, continued genomic monitoring is critical to detect whether certain clades associated with the current pandemic or future ones change in frequency over time, say the researchers. As we understand more about the evolution of disease agents, such as SARS-Cov-2, this information should aid our ability to make accurate predictions about future outbreaks and design effective public health interventions in order to end this pandemic and prevent new ones from emerging, they conclude. *Important Notice medRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. Continue Reading Below Advertisement Shrapnel scythed through the crowd, turning the quiet parking lot into a screaming bloodbath. One person died and many more were maimed. Papp sued Feynman for causing the explosion, while Feynman alleged that Papp had planted a bomb to destroy his own machine in order to scam his financial backers. The dispute was settled out of court and Papp went on to take millions from investors to develop his engine. Sadly, a mysterious obstacle always seemed to arise just before he was about to complete his work and repay all their money. On one occasion, he was found wandering in a daze with a bullet in his shoulder, having apparently been kidnapped. Another time, somebody supposedly broke into the lab and sabotaged his machine. He usually blamed Big Oil, although we don't think the mighty Ra should be ruled out. Continue Reading Below Advertisement Also assailed by mysterious problems was Arnold Burke, a Bible-thumping Texan publicity seeker who talked one of the nation's biggest dairy co-ops into investing $150,000 in a hydroelectric perpetual motion device called Jeremiah 33:3. Burke, who wore an eyepatch until miraculously recovering his eyesight during a faith healing ceremony, claimed his machine would cost only 50 cents in grease to run for a year. However, when the time came to unveil the device, Burke produced only excuses, until the cheesed-off dairy's interest curdled and they pulled out of the deal. This all led to a high-profile trial, which went off the rails when the assistant attorney-general noticed a hidden wire running into the machine. The entire court quickly sprung to its feet and followed the wire around the courthouse until they discovered a battery tucked under a bunk. Continue Reading Below Advertisement Burke wasn't the only one fusing religion with the power of perpetual motion. Most notable was a Swiss guy named Paul Baumann, who claimed to have experienced a divine vision while in prison on child abuse charges in the 1950s. Baumann went on to found a religious commune known as Methernitha in the Swiss mountains, where he supposedly perfected a perpetual motion device called the Testatika. The commune keeps the device a closely guarded secret, although free energy believers occasionally seek them out. A Bulgarian physicist reportedly even joined the group to learn the secrets of the device, but was unable to persuade them to share it with the world, and eventually jumped to his death from a library window at Graz University. Ever since Dr Sudhir Gupta of AIIMS said that Sushant Singh Rajput indeed died by suicide, it has left not only the deceased actor's family disturbed, but also his fans. On October 3, Dr Sudhir Gupta of AIIMS claimed in his report to the CBI that "There were no injuries over the body other than hanging. There were no marks of struggle/scuffle in the body and clothes of the deceased." Needless to say that this has only caused a stir among SSR's fans. Among all the hullabaloo around the report submitted to the CBI by the team of forensic doctors, Republic TV's head Arnab Goswami claimed to expose Dr Sudhir Gupta. Rhea Chakraborty's Lawyer Says 'Have Seen AIIMS Statement, Truth Cannot Be Changed' Arnab said, "Sudhir Gupta has been in an inexplicable hurry to declare the case a suicide. Is there pressure on them? Are they responding to pressure? What happened to the professional examination of the facts which we were promised, when cross-examination of the witness and custodial detention has not happened, when the Disha Salian case is not being opened up, when Siddharth Pithani is not being taken into custody. When there is no approval, the 164 statements have not been taken, when CBI is not been allowed to even literally start its work, because it's been kept pending by AIIMS for almost 2-3 weeks, then how is it?' people asked me, that the AIIMS has decided and announced that it is a case of simple suicide?" (sic) Arnab further added, "We are going to put out the final fact, recordings, tapes, and I can't say more at this stage because I know who our enemies are. But we are going to put out the final proof in this matter. So this can go across to all our supporters and viewers. Don't get disheartened." Now, the channel has broadcasted Dr Sudhir Gupta's startling revelations from August 22, which completely contradict his views now. On August 22, Gupta had told Republic TV's Prakash Singh, "Why was the autopsy done in such a hurry, was any videography done? There was contamination of evidence and is not suitable for further examination with sanctity. I had never given permission to open Sunanda Pushkar's room for four years. There was also a case of DK Ravi in Bangalore." Kshitij Prasad: NCB Forced Me To Falsely Implicate Ranbir Kapoor, Dino Morea & Arjun Rampal Republic Media Network also revealed their WhatsApp chat with Dr Sudhir Gupta from August 11, wherein he had raised some questions like, "The panel of five doctors of Cooper conducted autopsy...only one is junior level forensic doctor...rest 4 are just medical officer. The panel must be of forensic specialist as per norms. Who constituted the medical board? What was justification for the medical board...by the police?" (sic) It is yet to be seen how Dr Sudhir Gupta would react to his previous chat or statement. The General Secretary of the NPP, John Boadu, on Thursday, October 1, 2020, toured the various district offices of the electoral commission in the Volta Region to monitor the one-day special mop up voter registration exercise undertaken by the commission ahead of the 2020 general elections. He began with a visit to the Volta Regional Headquaters of the EC where he interacted with the Regional Director of the Commission and other officers to have a general overview of preparations made toward the conduct of the exercise before proceeding to tour the various registration centres. The tour took him to registration centres in Ho West, Afadzato South, Ho Central, Kpando, Hohoe, North Dayi and South Dayi districts. He interacted with EC officials in these centres as well as prospective registrants who expressed excitement at the opportunity to get their names on the electoral roll. Speaking to the media after his tour, the NPP Chief Scribe expressed satisfaction at the conduct of the exercise in the region. He said, he observed long queues in some of the centres, an indication that there are indeed some eligible Ghanaians who, for one reason or another, were yet to register. This, according to him, vindicates the decision of the EC to reopen the voter registration window to allow those who have not been able to register to do so. He took a swipe at the NDC for kicking against the ECs decision and seeking, through a law suit, to prevent the commission from undertaking this exercise, when in fact and indeed, long queues are being recorded across the country including the NDCs so called political world bank. John Boadu also used the opportunity to reiterate the NPPs outright condemnation of the activities of the Western Togoland Secessionist group. He described them as a bunch of criminals and invited the security agencies to deal ruthlessly with them in accordance with the laws of the Republic. John Boadu was accompanied by some of the Volta regional executives of the party, led by the regional secretary, Joseph Homenya. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Captain Amarinder Singh Sangrur: Even as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi termed the Centres Farm Laws as an attack on Indias soul, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Monday said his government would pass, in the Vidhan Sabha, whatever resolution needed to counter their dangerous impact on the nation. Addressing a public rally in Bhawanigarh on the second day of the 3-day Kheti Bachao Yatra, the Chief Minister vowed to do whatever it takes to protect the farmers and the state from the devastating effects of the black laws. Advertisement Captain Amarinder Singh Accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of trying to destroy the Mandi and MSP system, which was the wall of Indias agriculture sector, Rahul said if the BJP-led Union Government succeeds in breaking the backbone of the farmers the entire nation will be enslaved to industrialists like Ambani and Adani. The Modi government is doing to India what the East India Company of the British did, he warned, adding that what people buy now for Rs 10 will cost them Rs 50 under the corporate regime, and the money will go not to the farmers or labourers but into the pockets of the corporate houses. Advertisement Rahul further warned that Ambanis and Adanis will not use labour but would deploy machines to undertake the farm sector operations, rendering lakhs pf people jobless. The farmers will be forced to deal with these industrialists under the new system, and even the administration and police of the state will not be able to help them, he added. Rahul Gandhi Advertisement The central governments assault on farmers would led to the ruination of the entire nation, Rahul earlier warned, addressing a rally at Barnala Chow at Sangrur at the start of the tractor rally, which was scheduled to travel through Bhawanigarh, Fatehgarh Chhana, Bahmna, to culminate with another rally at the Grain Market in Samana in District Patiala. The farmers, however, will not be scared into submission, said Rahul, warning the Modi government that they will brave Covid to fight for their rights out on the streets of Punjab and the rest of the country. Joined by Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh, who lashed out at the Union Government for destroying the time-tested farmer-Arhtiya relationship to hand over Agriculture to big corporates like Adanis and Ambanis, Rahul made it clear that the Congress would not stop fighting for the farmers. Advertisement Farmers will be left by these new laws at the mercy of these big industrialists, whom they will never be able to fight or go to for help, both the Congress leaders said, adding that the farm laws will spell doom for the farming community. Captain Amarinder Singh and Rahul Gandhi Will you go to Adanis and Ambanis when in need, as you do with to the Arhtiyas at present,? the Chief Minister asked the farmers, while Rahul said once these industrialists take control of food, every household will have to pay 3-fold for the produce, leading to devastation and suffering for the entire nation. Not only will the farmers lose their land and livelihood, others associated with the Mandis and the food procurement chain will be rendered jobless, said Rahul. The Congress MP said the need of the hour was to strengthen the existing system, and to correct the flaws in it, rather than to destroy it, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi seemed to be bent on doing. Modi is only clearing the ground for his industrialist friends to take over, he added. Rahul lashed out at the BJP-led Government of India for trying to finish agriculture after failing to generate the promised employment. It is not Ambani and Adani who create jobs but small businesses and MSMEs, which Modi has been ruining with his ill-conceived moves like demonetisation, GST etc, he added. Pointing out that for six years Modi had been attacking the poor with his policies, Rahul said with demonetisation the common peoples hard-earned money was diverted through the banks to big industrialists, and with GST he has ruined the SMEs and small traders. Rahul Gandhi Even the Covid crisis has been used by the Prime Minister to help out his capitalist friends, whose loans and taxes he has waived off/reduces, said Rahul. Amid slogans of Captain Paanian Da Rakha Zindabad, the Chief Minister told the people in the heartland of the Malwa region, which produces the highest yield in Wheat and Paddy, that the Modi government had backtracked on every single promise, be it the constitutional promise of GST or employment or doubling of farmers income. For seven months, Punjab had not got its share of GST, leaving the state struggling to manage amid Covid, he said. Asserting that the Congress, with Rahul leading the way, will fight for the farmers till their last breath, the Chief Minister appealed to the MP to repeal the black laws once he becomes Prime Minister. Rahul has come to hold the hand of the farmers, he said, terming the new Farm Laws an act of total injustice with the farming community. The Modi government does not know how agriculture works in Punjab and the country, he said, adding that these legislations would pave the way for scrapping MSP and winding up FCI, as per the Shanta Kumar committee recommendations. Warning that these laws will led to closure of the Mandis, he said his government could not let the Union Government do that and will take all steps, including a Vidhan Sabha session to counter the new legislations, and challenging the Centres laws in Supreme Court. Amarinder and PM Modi Recalling his bonding with Sangrur, Chief Minister said that this is the land of my forefathers and its sacred soil produced martyrs like Shaheed Udham Singh, who kept the soil of Jallianwala Bagh with him to act as a constant reminder to avenge the tragedy of 1919. We derive inspiration from such heroes and martyrs, said Captain Amarinder Singh. PPCC president Sunil Jakhar, ex Chief Minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, Cabinet Ministers Balbir Sidhu and Vijay Inder Singla also spoke on the occasion, which was attended, among others, by AICC general secretary in-charge of Punjab affairs Harish Rawat, Haryana Congress leader Deepender Hooda. Cabinet Minister Rana Gurmit Singh Sodhi also shared the stage, along with Dhuri MLA Dalvir Singh Goldy. The occasion also saw a farmer named Mukhtiar Singh from Kanjhla village, holding 4 acres of land, narrating his tale of woes to the Chief Minister and other leaders. The venue resonated with slogans of `Kissan-arhrtiya-mazdoor ekta zindabad by the farmers, arhtiyas and labourers who had gathered in large numbers to welcome Rahul and Captain Amarinder, before they embarked on a tractor rally through Fatehgarh Chhana, Bahmna (Samana, District Patiala). The rally was scheduled to end in a public meeting at Grain Market, Samana. A LUXURY watchmaker in Henley has become the official timing partner for a world record attempt by Rolls-Royce. Bremont has released a new timepiece to mark the engineering companys all-electric speed record attempt by a plane. A team has been developing the zero-emissions aircraft, called the Spirit of Innovation, and hopes to beat the current record of 213mph early next year. Bremont was involved in the design of the planes cockpit, which will feature a stopwatch made by the company. It has also machined canopy release parts at its manufacturing facility at Sawmills in Marlow Road. The test pilots will be wearing its new watch called the Bremont ionBird. Nick English, who co-founded the company with his brother Giles, said: It is an extraordinary privilege to be working with the wonderful Rolls-Royce team on this project. As pilots ourselves, we have known Phill ODell, the Rolls-Royce test pilot, for many years and Rolls-Royce owns the Spitfire that our father operated when he was alive. The electrification of the air is such an important milestone in these challenging climatic times and to be playing a small part is very rewarding indeed. The countless synergies in this project really do beggar belief the passion for precision engineering, British manufacturing and aviation to name but a few. The ionBird uses a lightweight aviation grade titanium case and there is a nod back to the early days of aviation with the vintage-style numerals and bronze hands. The two companies are also working with software developer Compsoft on an app that will be used to aid the accuracy and safety of flying the aircraft. The ionBird watch will be able to communicate with the app via its new Bluetooth alerting strap that updates and informs the pilot when certain timing features are reached. Mr ODell, Rolls-Royces director of flight operations, said: The Spirit of Innovation is not only history in the making but also an example of pioneering innovation into sustainable power for aerospace. To champion this vision together with a British company that shares so many of the core values we do, and one which has personal ties to Rolls-Royce, has been very special indeed. Rolls-Royce has a history of supporting air speed record attempts dating back to the Schneider Trophies of the early Thirties when R J Mitchells Supermarine S.6B flew to victory powered by the companys R engine. Bremont has previously paid homage to these achievements with its Supermarine range of diving watches. The company is currently building a new base off Reading Road, near Sheephouse Farm. Piles of Mail, Including Ballots, Found in Dumpster in New Jersey Update: A U.S. Postal Service mail carrier was arrested and charged for allegedly dumping the mail into the dumpster. Original story below. Bundles of mail were found in a dumpster in New Jersey on Oct. 2, officials confirmed to The Epoch Times on Oct. 5. The mail, which included ballots, was discovered in a dumpster in North Arlington on Oct. 2, North Arlington Police Chief Scott Hedenberg said. Officers on scene did observe loose (rubber banded) bundles of mail, as described by the caller, which were secured on scene, Hedenberg said in an email. The U.S. Postal Police were contacted and responded. The incident is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. A U.S. Postal Service (USPS) spokesman said in an emailed statement that the mail was reported, collected, and delivered. This matter was then turned over to our Office of Inspector General. We are unable to comment further at this time, spokesman George Flood told The Epoch Times. A U.S. Postal Inspection Service spokesperson told The Epoch Times that the service was notified of the incident but that the matter was referred to the USPS Office of Inspector General. A special agent for the USPS Office of Inspector General confirmed to The Epoch Times that the office has opened an investigation into the matter. Howard Dinger, a New Jersey resident, said he found the mail dumped in a dumpster behind one of the banks I service. Dinger described the amount as 200 to 300 pounds, including at least 200 ballots. I couldnt believe it when I found it. thats why I felt it necessary to call the police and report it, Dinger wrote on Facebook. Im confident that it is going to be fully investigated. Cars drive past a mailbox in Morristown, N.J., on Aug. 17, 2020. (Theo Wargo/Getty Images) Dinger didnt respond to a Facebook message and deleted his post on Oct. 5 after The Epoch Times sent the message seeking an interview and permission to post the photograph. The Epoch Times captured an archived version of the post before Dinger deleted it. Numerous states, including New Jersey, are allowing voters to vote by mail in the upcoming election. Typically, voters vote in person unless they request an absentee ballot and state a reason they cant vote in person. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, signed an executive order in August that required each countys elections officials to send vote-by-mail ballots with prepaid postage to all active registered voters. Because of the increase in voting by mail nationwide, the USPS is handling more ballots than ever. Trays of mail were found in a ditch in Wisconsin in September. The mail contained several absentee ballots, the Outagamie County Sheriffs Office confirmed to The Epoch Times. Several days later, federal agents found discarded military mail-in ballots. Authorities later blamed a temporary contractor. In other cases, election officials or contracted companies have botched ballot details. New York City authorities said last week they were sending nearly 100,000 new absentee ballots to voters who had already received them because of what they described as a printing run error. BROOKLYN, MI Health officials have identified several individuals with COVID-19 stemming from an outbreak at the American Legion post in Brooklyn. Jackson County Health Department officials announced Sunday, Oct. 4, that multiple participants have been diagnosed with COVID-19 after the Queen of Hearts Drawing at the American Legion, Wilber-Bartlett Post 315 on Sunday, Sept. 27. Monday, Oct. 5: Latest developments on coronavirus in Michigan The American Legion, upon hearing about the exposure, closed and began the process of deep cleaning to mitigate any risk to its members, according to a news release. Known close contacts of positive individuals are being contacted and instructed to quarantine for 14 days from their last day of exposure. The health department also asks anyone who attended the drawing to self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 for 14 days after the exposure date. Quarantine immediately and contact a medical provider if you begin experiencing symptoms, like a fever, coughing, headache, shortness of breath or others, health officials said. COVID-19 PREVENTION TIPS In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus. Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible. Use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and carry hand sanitizer with you when you go into places like stores. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has also issued executive orders requiring people to wear face coverings over their mouth and nose while in public indoor and crowded outdoor spaces. See an explanation of what that means here. Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. For more data on COVID-19 in Michigan, visit https://www.mlive.com/coronavirus/data/. MORE FROM MLIVE: All over the place: Universities' COVID-19 data has no reporting standards He's currently embarking on his feature film directorial debut with a movie called Dog, and he's taking the title to heart in a big way. Magic Mike star Channing Tatum took to Instagram on Sunday to introduce his 17.1million followers to 'the newest member of the Tatum tribe,' an adorable mottled black and brown Dutch Shepherd puppy. Channing, 40, shared four snaps of the cuter-than-cute 12-week-old pup, whom he's calling Rook, which showed the doggy peering up at the camera in various settings. Chan's best friend: Channing Tatum took to Instagram on Sunday to introduce his followers to 'the newest member of the Tatum tribe,' an adorable black and brown Dutch Shepherd puppy The little pooch was all paws and huge ears in the snaps, sitting obediently and in one image holding a water bowl in his mouth. 'This is the newest member of the Tatum tribe,' Tatum began in the caption. 'Meet "Rook" or "Rooklin" 12 week old Dutch Shepard! Hes gonna be a goon. After i lost my LuLu i didnt know when or if Id be open to having another dog. But he sought me out and we met eyes and then some imprinting type sh*t happened,' the 21 Jump Street star continued. Dog lover: Tatum is currently embarking on his feature film directorial debut with a movie called Dog, and he's clearly taking the title to heart in a big way; seen on Instagram Literally the cutest: Channing shared four snaps of the cuter-than-cute 12-week-old pup, whom he's calling Rook, which showed the doggy peering up at the camera in various settings 'Haha I just hope i can handle the little hood rat. Haha thats also his nickname when hes being a little sh*t "hoodie" cause boi is he little savage sometimes.' Tatum concluded his message with 'he gonna be a hard hitter,' tagging both the K9 sales and training center @goldcoastk9 as well as his next project, @dogthefilm. The father-of-one later added further images of his new canine companion to his Instagram Story, showing Rook happily running alongside the actor for their 'first sun set [sic] run. He did rather well.' Adorable alert: The little pooch was all paws and huge ears in the snaps, sitting obediently and in one image holding a water bowl in his mouth Peas in a pod: The father-of-one later added further images of his new canine companion to his Instagram Story, showing Rook happily running alongside the actor The post comes after Channing shared a photo late last month from his trailer on the set of the film Dog. In the sexy black-and-white snap, the handsome actor posed topless, showing off his cut torso. The movie, which the Step Up star is also co-writing and producing, will follow an army ranger who travels along the California coast with his dog on the way to a friend's funeral. Channing said of his new pooch: 'He gonna be a hard hitter' Mick Fleetwood has made his TikTok debut recreating a viral meme to the Fleetwood Mac song Dreams. The original TikTok, which Fleetwood Mac had previously stated they loved, shows a man named Nathan Apodaca skateboarding down a motorway in Idaho while lip-synching to the 1977 hit and drinking cranberry juice. Fleetwood then tried out the combination himself, claiming cranberry juice and Dreams hits different. Mr Apodacas TikTok now has more than four million views, and inspired a spike in sales of the song. It was reported that the Fleetwood Mac song tripled in sales and doubled its streams in the week after the video went viral. Mr Apodaca commented on Instagram that he was so blessed by Fleetwoods version of the video. The recreation, which has been viewed more than two million times, is Fleetwoods first video on the TikTok platform. A week after fighting erupted between Armenia and Azerbaijan, bloodshed escalated this weekend as both sides bombarded each others cities. A new eruption of the 1988-1994 war between the two former Soviet republics over control of the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh enclave, which initially broke out in the run-up to the Stalinist dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, threatens to escalate into an all-out regional war. The war threatens to drag in not only the two countries main regional backersRussia, which supports Armenia, and Turkey, which backs Azerbaijanbut also to intensify divisions within NATO. Calls are growing in France, which is already fighting a proxy war against Turkish-backed forces in Libya and backing Greek maritime claims in the Mediterranean against Turkey, to intervene more aggressively in support of Armenia. Azeri barrages targeted several towns in Nagorno-Karabakh, which Armenian forces have held since 1994 and Azeri forces are trying to retake. Azeri forces also reported that they captured several villages there. In this image taken from footage released by Azerbaijans Defense Ministry on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2020, Azerbaijans soldiers fire from a mortar at the contact line of the self-proclaimed Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan. (Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry via AP) Azeri President Ilham Aliyev tweeted: Today the Azeri army liberated the village of Talish in the Terter region; the villages of Mehdili, Chakhyrly, Ashagi Maralyan, Shaibey and Guidzhag in the Jebrail region; and the village of Ashagi Abdurrahmanli in the Fizuli region. Karabakh is Azerbaijan. On October 2, Armenian authorities reported that Azeri forces hit the road linking Armenia to Nagorno-Karabakh with an Israeli-made LORA missile. Yesterday, Armenian forces bombed Ganja, Azerbaijans second-largest city after Baku, saying the risk of civilian casualties would not deter them. The Azeri Defense Ministry reported that in Ganja, As a result of enemy fire, civilians, civilian infrastructure, and ancient historical buildings were harmed. Arayik Harutyunyan, the leader of Artsakh, the Armenian name for Nagorno-Karabakh, said he would respond to strikes on his capital, Stepanakert, by bombing Azeri cities. He declared: The Azeri terrorist army is targeting civilians in Stepanakert, using Polonez and Smerch weapons systems. From now on, military targets in large Azeri cities are the target of the Defense Army of Artsakh. We are calling on the Azeri population to leave these cities to avoid inevitable losses. The toll in civilian and military losses is rising rapidly. Officials reported 21 civilian deaths in Azerbaijan and 13 in Armenia this weekend, with the military situation on the ground remaining unclear. Armenian forces in Nagorno-Karabakh reported that 51 servicemen were killed on Saturday, while Azeri forces have declined to state their military losses. In a TV address Saturday, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said: As of now, we already have significant human losses, both military and civilian, large quantities of military equipment are no longer usable, but the adversary still has not been able to solve any of its strategic issues. Mortar fire from the Armenian-Azeri fighting also landed in neighboring Irans East Azerbaijan province, causing damage, including a blackout in Khodafarin. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh warned against all violations of Iranian territory and called for a negotiated settlement. In this war, the reactionary implications of the ethnic nationalism promoted by the Soviet bureaucracy in the run-up to capitalist restoration in 1991 are coming together with the explosive geopolitical tensions caused by the three subsequent decades of US-led wars in the region. The United States, France and Russia had brokered earlier talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan in the post-Soviet period, as well as discussions with Turkey. However, relations between these powers have collapsed amid bloody proxy wars across the region, from Libya to Syria and Iraq. The European powers and Russia have repeatedly but ineffectually called for de-escalation. On Friday night, after Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio expressed concern over the clashes [and] the risk of military escalation, the Elysee palace in Paris reported that President Emmanuel Macron telephoned both Aliyev and Pashinyan to call for talks. He reiterated calls for a cease-fire and called to begin a process and a method that would lead to a return to negotiations, the Elysee said, adding, Work is beginning this evening. Whatever work on negotiations Paris believed was occurring promptly ended, however, with the dramatic escalation of the fighting this weekend. German Chancellor Angela Merkel called Pashinyan yesterday to stress that all parties must immediately stop clashes and start negotiations, spokeswoman Ulrike Demmer said. The Turkish government has ruled out any ceasefire, pledging to continue backing Azeri claims on the Nagorno-Karabakh region. After Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that Turkish support for Baku was part of its broader defense of the oppressed in the Caucasus, Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu told the Italian daily La Stampa, Superficial demands for an immediate end to hostilities and a permanent ceasefire will not be useful this time. Global geopolitical tensions are exploding, particularly amid growing US war threats against Iran. Multiple reports have emerged of CIA-backed Syrian Islamist militias sending troops from Syria via Turkey to Azerbaijan, on the border of both Iran and Russia, marking a major new escalation of regional tensions. Washington is also angry at Chinas growing commercial ties in the region and recently bombed Iranian-linked forces in Iraq. Significantly, Washington has made few public efforts to halt the Armenian-Azeri war. While it gives millions of dollars in military aid to both countries, it boosted aid to Azerbaijan last year amid its war planning against Iran. It gave $100 million to Azerbaijan to heighten maritime security against Iran, while leaving military aid to Armenia at $4.2 million. Azerbaijan purchased large numbers of Israeli SkyStriker drones used in the recent fighting, according to the Jerusalem Post. There has been speculation in diplomatic circles internationally that some US officials see Armenia as too close to Iran and Russia. Last year, discussing US military aid to Azerbaijan, Russian analyst Pavel Felgenhauer told Eurasianet.org: American-Iranian relations have worsened quite quickly, so Azerbaijan finds itself in Washingtons focus and Armenia, not. Armenia is seen, probably, as an Iranian ally. Under these conditions, the Turkish government has apparently felt free to reject calls for Armenian-Azeri talks, bucking warnings from Russia and the European Union. In France, already on the verge of an open clash with Turkey in Libya and the Mediterranean, calls are growing for a more aggressive policy. Yesterday, 173 French lawmakers, mostly from areas of southern France with large Armenian communities, called on Paris to abandon this absolutely untenable position of neutrality. They asserted that the Azeri offensives goal is the disappearance of Armenian populations from this region. This followed publication by the French right-wing daily Le Figaro of a long interview with Pashinyan. The Armenian premier said Azerbaijan is using drones and Turkish F-16s to bomb civilian areas in Nagorno-Karabakh, and that Turkish military commanders are directly involved in the conflict. Pashinyan explosively charged Azeri and Turkish forces with planning genocide, declaring: The situation is much more serious [than earlier border clashes]. It is more appropriate to compare it with what happened in 1915, when more than 1.5 million Armenians were slaughtered in the first genocide of the 20th century. Pashinyan was referring to the mass murder of Armenians in Turkey during World War I. The Turkish state, which continues to deny the past, is once again venturing down a genocidal path, he added. One cannot oppose war and ethnic cleansing, however, by supporting either of the contending bourgeois camps, both of which have vast amounts of blood on their hands. The 1988-1994 war led to over 20,000 deaths and the displacement of over a million people, a large majority of them Azeris fleeing Nagorno-Karabakh amid the Armenian victory. What these conflicts show is the reactionary nature of the nation-state system. Averting further wars and massacres, which could escalate into a devastating conflict between the major powers, requires uniting workersin Armenia, Azerbaijan and around the worldin a socialist and anti-imperialist movement against war and the capitalist system. The total spends on gender diversity by India Inc has moved from 23 percent in 2016 to 32 percent in 2019, according to a new study. The 2020 Working Mother & Avtar Best Companies for Women in India companies are also no longer shy of increasing spend on gender diversity hiring which indicates an increase in intent. As per this study, the top 10 companies for women in 2020 include Accenture, Barclays in India, EY, Genpact India, IBM India, Infosys, KPMG, Novartis Healthcare, Target Corporation India and Tech Mahindra. The study showed that percentage of women hires increased from 31 percent in 2016 to 37 percent in 2020. During the same timeframe, number of companies having formal programs to identify and recruit second career women (women on career breaks) moved up from 30 percent to 65 percent. This years report showed that 98 percent of companies in India Inc are offering programs to identify women employees with high potential. This has increased by 32 percent as compared to 66 percent of companies in 2016, indicating a steady increase in intent amongst employers. Also mentoring being a critical enabler of womens careers, the study revealed that the percentage of companies providing mentoring moved up from 75 percent in 2016 to 96 percent in 2020. Absence of women in key management positions has been a matter of concern in India. The study said that 99 percent of companies offer leadership training program, which has gone by 43 percent over the last five years. Apart from focusing on providing enablers for work-life integration (like child-care and flexible work support), companies are increasingly focusing on skill-building for women and creating a more gender balanced talent pipeline. Demonstrating this intent, 97 percent of the 100 Best Companies use a gender lens for succession planning. This study was conducted by diversity and inclusion firm Avtar Group and US-based gender parity platform Working Mother Media. Saundarya Rajesh, Founder President, Avtar, said that it is also laudable that these companies are increasingly invested in creating a culture of inclusion and allyship. As per data from 2020 Working Mother & Avtar Most Inclusive Companies Index (MICI), 33 percent of Diversity & Inclusion spend in organizations is for D&I learning. In 2020 Most Inclusive Companies Index MICI (that covered inclusion efforts for gender, culture, people with disabilities and LGBTQ Community), the top ten companies include Accenture, ANZ Support Services India, Barclays in India, EY, IBM India, Infosys, Midland Credit Management India and US Technology International. The 2020 BCWI-MICI was launched in February this year, and 321 companies spanning every major industry, geographical location and line of business were amongst the applicants. The application form with close to 300 questions, required applicant companies to provide data of high-order granularity on their practices, programs and policies to ensure gender inclusion at their workplaces. The study accepted applications from companies (meeting the eligibility criteria of at least 500 employees in India) between February 2020, and June 30, 2020. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 00:41:09|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close by Pankaj Yadav NEW DELHI, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- India's federal government will disburse the Compensation Cess collected this year among all the states within the next few hours, said the country's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Monday. Her comments assume significance in the wake of complaints from the cash-strapped states that the Centre was evading payments of their share of revenue collected in the form of Goods and Services Tax (GST). Addressing media persons after chairing a meeting of the GST Council, the minister said that the Compensation Cess, collected this year, amounts to almost 20,000 crores Indian Rupees (around 2.7 billion U.S. dollars). A statement issued by the federal finance ministry said - "Centre is releasing compensation of 20,000 crore Indian Rupees to states today towards loss of revenue during 2020-21, and an amount of about 25,000 crore Indian Rupees (3.3 billion U.S. dollars) towards the Integrated Goods and Services Tax of the financial year 2017-18 by next week." The Cess will come as a much-needed relief to the cash strapped states, said a senior official in the finance ministry. On the issue of pending GST compensation to the states, Nirmala Sitharaman said that when the GST law was formulated it did not take a COVID-19 like pandemic into account. The GST regime was implemented in the country in July 2017. Due to the shutdown of almost all economic activities across the states amid the 68-day Lockdown there was minimal revenue sources left with the states. As a result, they faced a severe cash crunch, which they continue to face till date. As a relief, the states looked up to the Centre Government for compensation to meet their respective day-to-day expenses. According to media reports, at the last GST Meeting held on Aug. 27, the Centre Government had offered to the states two borrowing options to meet their respective revenue shortfall - Borrow 97,000 crore Indian Rupees (around 12.9 billion U.S. dollars) and no need to repay either the principal amount or the interest thereof. Or, opt for the larger borrowing option of 235,000 crore Indian Rupees (around 31.3 billion U.S. dollars) and bear significant interest costs thereon, reported the Hindustan Times on Monday. The deadlock between the Centre Government and some state governments over the borrowing continues as several states ruled by the Opposition political parties want the Centre to borrow, as compared to the Centre's proposal saying the states should borrow. The finance ministry has now offered an eight-day window to further discuss the borrowing to meet the GST shortfall proposal, added the finance ministry official. Enditem This is Naked Capitalism fundraising week. 1558 donors have already invested in our efforts to combat corruption and predatory conduct, particularly in the financial realm. Please join us and participate via our donation page, which shows how to give via check, credit card, debit card, or PayPal. Read about why were doing this fundraiser, what weve accomplished in the last year, and our current goal, more original reporting. By Dana Drugmand, a freelance writer and attorney who writes about climate issues. Originally published at DeSmog Blog With lawsuits against major fossil fuel producers over climate damages on the rise, a new report and initiative examines how prestigious law firms are enabling climate breakdown. The student-led initiative, Law Students for Climate Accountability, calls for holding the legal industry accountable for profiting from work defending and lobbying for fossil fuel clients as the world faces what scientists say is a climate emergency. This campaign is emerging as industries ranging from finance to insurance are facing greater scrutiny in a rapidly warming world. Law firms write the contracts for fossil fuel projects, lobby to weaken environmental regulations, and help fossil fuel companies evade accountability in court. Our research is the first to expose the broad extent of firms role in driving the climate crisis, Alisa White, a student at Yale Law School and a lead author on the report, said in a press release. THREAD: We just released the Law Firm Climate Change Scorecard, the 1st ever study of top law firms role in the climate crisis. A large majority of top law firms are on the wrong side of historyand we have the data to prove it (1/8) #ClimateScore https://t.co/ixlULvRh2Y Law Students for Climate Accountability (@Ls4Ca) October 1, 2020 The 2020 Law Firm Climate Change Scorecard, as the report is titled, looks at the top 100 most prestigious law firms in the U.S. (known as the Vault 100) and grades them according to their work in service of the fossil fuel industry. According to the analysis, the top 100 firms worked on ten times as many cases exacerbating climate change as cases addressing climate change; were the legal advisors on five times more transactional work for the fossil fuel industry than the renewable energy industry; and lobbied five times more for fossil fuel companies than renewable energy companies. Overall, per this scorecard, only four firms received an A grade while 41 firms scored a D, and 26 received an F. The report summary calls out several of the firms graded F. The firm Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, for example, which represents ExxonMobil in climate liability lawsuits, worked on as many cases exacerbating climate change as 62 other Vault 100 firms combined, the report states. Last winter Paul, Weiss faced protests from law students at Harvard, Yale, New York University, and the University of Michigan during recruitment events, with the students calling on the firm to drop Exxon as a client. Paul, Weiss did not immediately respond to a request for comment. These protests and the new Law Students for Climate Accountability initiative indicate that legal firms that refuse to drop major fossil fuel clients may start to face recruitment challenges. Young people are increasingly engaging in climate activism and leading the demands for change across all segments of society, including now in the legal field. Very important new front in the climate fight: Law Students for Climate Accountability @Ls4Ca has just ranked the top 100 law firms in the U.S by the amount of climate damage they do. Young people just arent having it any morehttps://t.co/kYOPhcZF05 Bill McKibben (@billmckibben) October 1, 2020 All sectors of society are reckoning with their role in addressing climate change. Its time for the legal industry to join them, the report argues. Law Students for Climate Accountability a new organization of law students from across the United States committed to holding the legal industry accountable for its role in the climate crisis said the scorecard offers law students a guide when considering job opportunities and also potentially puts pressure on law firms to consider more than just money in its work and clientele. My classmates and I came to law school to learn skills to work towards a future that is safer and more just, Lily Cohen, a student at Harvard Law School and an organizer of the #DropExxon protests, said in a press release. I hope that this scorecard emboldens firms to make decisions about people, not just profits. U.S.Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), a former Rhode Island attorney general, said the new student initiative scrutinizing the legal industry over its contribution to climate breakdown puts the fossil fuel industry and law firms enabling it on notice. The fossil fuel industry does everything it can to avoid responsibility for the massive damage its done to our planet, Sen. Whitehouse said in the press release. One of the strongest weapons in that fight is litigation carried out by some of the most established law firms in the legal world. Its past time these firms reconsidered how they represent one of the most destructive industries in history, and theres no reason law students should not consider this representation in deciding how to direct their careers. I applaud this important effort. The Enforcement Directorate may soon register a money laundering case to probe if dubious funds were used for allegedly fuelling caste-based protests in the wake of the alleged gang-rape and death of a Dalit woman in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras, officials said on Monday. IMAGE: Members of various organisations hold a protest against the gang rape of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras, at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, on Friday. Photograph: Vijay Verma/PTI Photo ED Joint Director (Lucknow zone) Rajeshwar Singh told PTI that the central probe agency is 'examining' a Hathras police first information report linked to charges filed against a website created on an online platform, http://carrd.co. A link, 'justice for Hathras victim', was uploaded on the platform and it is under probe for alleged dubious activities, official sources said. They said the ED may file a criminal case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The law empowers the agency to confiscate tainted funds collected for any alleged illegal activity through an online platform. Those involved can be arrested and prosecuted under the PMLA, they added. The Hathras police FIR has been filed under Section 153A (promoting enmity between groups) of the Indian Penal Code. This is a scheduled offence on which PMLA sections can be applied, the sources said. Once an ED case is registered under criminal sections of the PMLA, they said, the agency can make enquiries from foreign regulators and investigative agencies to probe the details of money collected and utilised by individuals. The agency, the sources said, will also examine the 'ultimate beneficiaries' of the money collected by this web portal and the service provider (telecom company) can be asked to share the IP address or addresses from where the webpage was launched. The ED, they said, will also seek technical help from the Computer Emergency Response Team of India (CERT-In) for analysing traffic on the website and to obtain email ids and phone numbers used to buy the domain name and hosting a topic related to the alleged gang-rape and death of the Dalit woman in Hathras. The web platform under the scanner has supposedly been developed by a United States-based entity, they added. According to the Uttar Pradesh police, the facts and statements of the state government related to the Hathras incident were being forged, manipulated and circulated on social media. Some accused are circulating material that could trigger caste-based conflict and these are serious offences considering the current situation in the region, a UP police officer said. The Dalit woman died of grievous injuries in a Delhi hospital on September 29, a fortnight after she was allegedly raped by four upper caste men in her village. The victim had suffered spinal injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue. She was cremated in the early hours of September 30. While her family claimed the cremation was carried out against their wishes, the police said the last rites were held 'as per the wishes of the family'. The incidents have triggered massive outrage across the country. Facing severe criticism over the incident, the UP government has recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation probe into the whole episode. A brother and sister in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, work on their lessons at home as classes for Filipino school students resumed for the first time in seven months, Oct. 5, 2020. More than 22 million Philippine children went back to school virtually on Monday, after a seven-month gap in their education due to the coronavirus pandemic, but many faced challenges such as through slow internet speeds or having to share devices for their online classes, officials said. Schools decided to resume classes for the new academic year by adopting blended learning, which includes lesson modules complemented by TV and radio broadcasts as well as online learning. However, many children from economically disadvantaged families withdrew from classes as schools reported a shortage of the devices needed for such learning and students had difficulties sharing them. Like what I have already said, opening of classes may not have been perfect, but we did prepare for it, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said. We are still optimistic that overall, the opening of blended learning in our country was successful. Dont worry, even if there are a lot of areas where internet signal is slow, we can use TV and radio. In some areas, teachers set up makeshift drive-through centers to allow parents to pick up education modules for their children. In far-flung areas, some teachers had to swim across rivers or climb mountains to hand over learning materials to students or to access the internet, reported local radio and television. Data from the education department showed that 22.74 million students had enrolled in public and private schools this year a significant decrease from last years 27.7 million turnout. President Rodrigo Duterte had flirted with the idea of calling off classes for the entire year, or until a cure for COVID-19 is found, but was overruled by his education minister. On Monday, Mila Castaneda, principal of the Gabaldon Elementary School in the northern province of Tarlac, said school buildings in her region wore a desolate look as children stayed home. There were no students to welcome back, but we still came, Castaneda told BenarNews, adding that each teacher had distributed lesson modules and printed materials in advance to students. We only use the internet during virtual meetings and consultation with the learners, because we cannot connect with many students who live in really far flung rural areas. Castaneda said many parents were adjusting to their new roles as hands-on teachers at home, adding that parents and teachers found the first day of school to be a challenge. [T]here are just too many modules and the students will have to study on their own with the help of their parents, Castaneda said. Lockdown Much of the nation remains in various stages of lockdown as the Philippines has the highest number of confirmed COVID-19 infections in the East Asia region. Last week, Duterte decided that quarantine restrictions in Manila and five other heavily populated urban centers would remain until at least the end of October. Still, the Department of Trade and Industry last week eased restrictions on 17 industries such as malls, food, public transportation, and mining and quarrying. Malls are now allowed to stay open until 11 p.m., salons and barbershops can operate at 75 percent capacity and essential shops are allowed to operate at full capacity. Restaurants and fast food chains are allowed to run at more than 50 percent capacity while their dine-in and delivery services can resume round-the-clock operations. The new policies aim to aid the economy, Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said last week, adding that the recommendations by economic managers were approved by the national task force to address COVID-19. The departments circular last week stressed the need to provide stability for businesses, re-stimulate the economy amid the COVID-19 pandemic and address the growing number of joblessness, poverty and hunger incidence in the country is increasing. On Monday, the health department reported 64 more COVID-19 deaths, taking the total death toll to 5,840. Additionally, 2,291 infections were recorded, increasing that number to 324,762, the most in the East Asia region. Neighboring Indonesia topped 300,000 infections on Sunday and added another 3,622 on Monday, bringing the total to 307,120 according to health officials. Its death toll is nearly double that of the Philippines as 102 deaths recorded on Monday brought the total to 11,253. Meanwhile in Malaysia, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin announced on Monday that he would self-quarantine for two weeks after Religious Affairs Minister Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri, who attended a meeting with him on Saturday, tested positive for COVID-19. In addition, two state assemblymen, Shatiri Mansor of the Peoples Justice Party and Lim Yi Wei of the Democratic Peoples Party, announced that they had been infected. Malaysian health officials reported 432 new infections on Monday a record one-day count for the nation bringing the pandemic total to 12,813. The death toll in the country is 137. Globally, more than 35.2 million people have been infected with COVID-19 and more than 1 million have died according to disease experts at the U.S.-based Johns Hopkins University. Undercover agents will not be given a 'licence to kill,' under new laws, the Government's security minister has assured MPs. James Brokenshire addressed concerns over the the Covert Human Intelligence Sources (Criminal Conduct) Bill while speaking to MPs in the commons. The senior minister assured the House that the bill's powers are contained in the Human Rights Act and include the right to life, prohibition of torture, and prohibition of subjecting someone to inhuman or degrading treatment. Several MPs raised concerns over the scope of the Bill and the Government's unwillingness to specify a list of the limits in the legislation, which aims to protect undercover operatives from prosecution if they are forced to break the law on operations. Security minister James Brokenshire has reassured MPs who voiced concerns over new powers being given to undercover agents The Bill also seeks to define circumstances in which operatives can commit crime, replacing various pieces of overlapping legislation. It will cover 13 law enforcement and government agencies, including the police, the National Crime Agency, the armed forces and the prison service. Speaking in the Commons, Mr Brokenshire said covert human intelligence sources (CHIS) will 'never be given unlimited authority to commit any or all crime'. He told the Commons: 'Where a CHIS commits any criminality outside the tight parameters of the authorisation the prosecuting authorities can consider in the normal way. 'Because of the clandestine nature of the work, I hope members will understand there are limits as to what I can say publicly about the role that CHIS play in saving lives and property without exposing sensitive information about their methods and techniques. 'I know there are concerns about somehow providing a licence to kill or to commit torture - let me be clear, there are upper limits to the activity that could be authorised under this Bill and these are contained in the Human Rights Act. 'This includes the right to life and prohibition of torture or subjecting someone to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. 'It is unlawful for any public authority to act in a way that is incompatible with the European Convention on Human Rights and the legislation makes clear nothing in the Bill detracts from a public authority's obligations under the Human Rights Act. 'Therefore an act which would be incompatible with the ECHR could not lawfully be granted under this Bill.' Conservative former minister Steve Baker earlier said: 'I think one of the problems the Government has got today is for those of us who like the red meat of law enforcement, law and order, he's forced us to look inside the abattoir and of course we don't like what we see. Former Conservative Minister Steve Baker raised questions over the bill to Mr Brokenshire in the House of Commons 'On this point about stringent limits, could he explain why there's not more on the face of the Bill to put those limits in place, because I can't imagine ministers will be authorising killing or torture.' Mr Brokenshire did not respond in detail to the intervention but later said: 'We do not believe, however, it's appropriate to draw up a list of specific crimes which may be authorised or prohibited. 'To do so would place in the hands of criminals, terrorists and hostile states a means of identifying our agents and sources - creating a potential checklist for suspected CHIS to be tested against.' Mr Brokenshire claimed this would result in an 'increased threat to the public'. There have been 518 new cases and no further deaths confirmed to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre today. This brings the total number of cases confirmed in the state to 38,549, while the death toll from the virus stands at 1,810. There were 134 new cases confirmed in Dublin today, 53 in Cork, 49 in Limerick, 34 in Donegal, 32 in Meath and the remaining 216 cases are spread across 20 counties. Of the cases notified today; 252 are men and 266 are women; 68pc are under 45 years of age; 30pc are confirmed to be associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case and 78 cases have been identified as community transmission. Read More This comes as government are expected to reject Nphet advice to impose Level 5 restrictions on the entire country and instead impose blanket Level 3 restrictions across all counties. Cabinet were set to decide on further restrictions in a meeting at 5.30pm this evening. This would limit all bars and restaurants to just 15 people dining outdoors. Dr. Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said; We have seen in recent days a significant and concerning deterioration in the epidemiological situation nationally. It is vital that we do everything in our power now to arrest the current trajectory nationally and very substantially suppress the virus back down to a low level of transmission in advance of the winter months. Do not become distracted from the core public health messages; wash hands regularly, keep your distance, wear face coverings where appropriate, avoid crowded environments, cut your social contacts down to minimum levels, know the symptoms and isolate yourself and contact your GP immediately if you experience them. Dr. Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said; Our core priorities have to be protected. We must work together to keep our non-Covid health services open, keep our children in education and protect the lives of the most vulnerable to this disease. Solidarity is now more important than ever as we work to once again suppress this virus in our communities. Some reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program could have disproportionately negative impacts on the same groups, according to researchers. Black and Hispanic people and people with low incomes are more likely to live in areas at high risk of flooding from natural disasters than white and Asian people, according to a new study led by the University of Arizona. The study also found that certain reforms to the federal government's widely used flood insurance program could be disproportionately burdensome to the same groups of people. The findings come amid a record-breaking 2020 Atlantic hurricane season that has pummeled the southeastern United States. Hurricane Sally, which made landfall on Sept. 16, devastated parts of Alabama and Florida. Two days later, forecasters at the National Hurricane Center ran out of the 21 storm names, following the Latin alphabet, that it had decided on for this year. Scientists turned to the Greek alphabet, for only the second time ever, to name the following storms. The study will be published in the November issue of the Journal of Environmental Economics and Management. Laura Bakkensen, an associate professor in the School of Government and Public Policy in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, was the paper's lead author. Bakkensen, an environmental economist, researches policy responses to natural disasters. "We see a lot of news reports where sometimes poorer or minority-rich communities may feel greater losses," Bakkensen said. "Understanding whether that's happening and what might be driving that is really what got me interested in this." A Database of Homebuyers' Choices Bakkensen and her colleague Lala Ma at the University of Kentucky looked at four years of property sales data for nearly 50,000 homes in south Florida. The area has many properties prone to flooding, which made it a strong case study, Bakkensen said. Bakkensen's study relied on individual property sales data linked with data on homebuyer ethnicity and income, providing a much more granular picture than many previous studies. This ultimately allowed researchers to get a clear idea of what factors played into homeowners' different choices about where to buy a house - or where not to buy a house. "Flood risk house-by-house may be very different. My neighbor across the street from me might be at low risk but maybe I'm at a lower elevation and maybe I'm at high risk," Bakkensen said. "We wanted to be really careful to disentangle what is really flood risk versus a lot of other things that might correlate with flood risk in the data," such as proximity to the coastline, which is typically considered an amenity. The key question from the data, Bakkensen said, became: How much would somebody be willing or able to pay to avoid living in a high flood-risk zone? The answer was different depending on homebuyers' ethnicities, researchers found. The study reports that white and Asian people with low incomes would be willing or able to pay about $710 per year on average to avoid living in an area at high risk of flooding. Because Asian people accounted for only 2.5% of all the property sales data, they could not be separated as their own category. They were combined with white people because the two groups' average incomes were similar in the study's sample. Among Black people, that number was around $500. Hispanic people, on average, were willing or able to pay an additional $618. Predictably, the study found that the amounts homebuyers were willing or able to pay increased with their income levels. The study notes that other factors beyond income - such as access to information about homes' flood risk - could explain why certain groups are able or willing to pay more than others to avoid flood risk. But determining that would require further research and additional data, Bakkensen said. Reforming Flood Insurance Through Simulations The study also sought to find ways to improve the National Flood Insurance Program, which has long been a target of reform by both political parties in Congress, Bakkensen said. Under federal law, most lenders require flood insurance for homebuyers who are buying properties in areas at high risk for flooding. Due to a small market of private flood insurers, the federal program is the largest and most widely used, Bakkensen said. But the seemingly competing missions at the core of the program - provide flood insurance and make it affordable for homebuyers - have made it difficult to fund, Bakkensen said. The program regularly borrows money from the Treasury Department to cover the cost of payouts. Using the housing data and model results, Bakkensen and Ma ran simulations that predicted how certain proposals to reform the program could affect homebuyers. In one case, the researchers simulated removing two subsidy programs that make the insurance more affordable for homeowners. They found the change would have disparately negative effects on homeowners of certain ethnicities. Removing the subsidies would cost white and Asian homeowners with low incomes only about 0.45% of their average annual incomes, compared to 0.55% of the average annual incomes for Black homeowners and 0.7% for Hispanic homeowners. As homeowners' incomes increase, the cost of losing the subsidies took up less of their annual income, but the disparities for people of different ethnicities remain. Another simulation took aim at the National Flood Insurance Program's flood risk maps, which are used by homeowners and officials to determine the flood risk of neighborhoods and homes in large sections of the U.S. But many of the maps are outdated, meaning the flood risk information in those maps is unreliable. On average, Bakkensen and Ma found that updated maps provided significant value to homeowners, especially to lower income homeowners as a fraction of their income, and the researchers were able to translate those advantages into dollar figures. But the value fluctuated based on ethnicity: For white and Asian homeowners, revised maps provided an annual value of $144; that value was $70 for Hispanic homeowners and $60 for Black homeowners. That finding alone has already raised eyebrows at the National Flood Insurance Program, Bakkensen said, where program staff have been trying to get an idea of the value of updating the maps. The disproportionate costs of reforming the program to Black and Hispanic people and people with low incomes, Bakkensen said, were among the findings that surprised her the most. She had no pre-conceived notions, she added, about whether she would find disparities in reform outcomes. "It was quite a striking finding, and I think it was an important one," Bakkensen said. "It shows that even with good-intentioned policy reform, we still have to be careful and do our due diligence to make sure there aren't unintended consequences that could cause harm to communities that may already experience a lot of harm from flooding and other natural disasters." Bakkensen plans to expand her research to other areas of the country, as well as to renters, who were not included in this study. The new findings help illustrate just how differently certain groups of people experience natural disasters, she said. "There's a lot of complexity to who's living in harm's way, and that's why we oftentimes see very different losses, or it can be an important contributing factor," Bakkensen added. "That's quite relevant for a lot of the hurricanes we're seeing this season." ### By Express News Service CHANDIGARH: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, on the second day of the three-day Kheti Bachao Yatra against three farm laws, compared NDA Government with the British East India company. If the BJP-led government succeeds in breaking the backbone of the farmers the way the British firm did, then the entire nation would be enslaved to industrialists like Ambani and Adani, he said. "The Modi Government is doing to India what the East India Company of the British did. What people buy now for Rs 10 will cost them Rs 50 under the corporate regime, and the money will go not to the farmers or labourers but into the pockets of the corporate houses." The Congress leader was addressing a rally at Bhawanigarh in Sangrur on the second day of the tractor rally. He accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of trying to destroy the Mandi and MSP system, which was the wall of Indias agriculture sector. The Ambanis and Adanis will not use labour but would deploy machines to undertake the farm sector operations, rendering lakhs of people jobless. The farmers will be forced to deal with these industrialists under the new system, and even the administration and police of the state will not be able to help them. Gandhi further said Congress will not back off from protesting against these bills. "Every farmer will come out to streets against these bills and against your party. Congress stands with all the farmers and will always support them. What was the need to bring these bills at the time of coronavirus pandemic? Because Narendra Modi thinks that if such bills are introduced at the time of coronavirus, the farmers won't come out to protest against them." "The central governments assault on farmers would lead to the ruination of the entire nation. The farmers, however, will not be scared into submission. Once these industrialists take control of food, every household will have to pay three-fold for the produce, leading to devastation and suffering for the entire nation. Not only will the farmers lose their land and livelihood, but others associated with the Mandis and the food procurement chain will also be rendered jobless," said Rahul. He said that the farmers will brave Covid to fight for their rights out on the streets of Punjab and the rest of the country. Congress would not stop fighting for the farmers. Farmers will be left by these new laws at the mercy of these big industrialists, whom they will never be able to fight or go to for help, he said, adding that the farm laws will spell doom for the farming community. ALSO READ | Congress-ruled states mull convening assembly to annul central farm laws Rahul said the need of the hour was to strengthen the existing system and to correct the flaws in it, rather than to destroy it, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi seemed to be bent on doing. Modi is only clearing the ground for his industrialist friends to take over, he added. He lashed out at the BJP-led NDA Government for trying to finish agriculture after failing to generate the promised employment. It is not Ambani and Adani who create jobs but small businesses and MSMEs, which Modi has been ruining with his ill-conceived moves like demonetisation, GST, he added. Pointing out that for six years Modi had been attacking the poor with his policies, Rahul said with demonetisation the common peoples hard-earned money was diverted through the banks to big industrialists, and with GST he has ruined the SMEs and small traders. Even the Covid crisis has been used by the Prime Minister to help out his capitalist friends, whose loans and taxes he has waived off, said Rahul. Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh said, "Will you go to Adanis and Ambanis when in need, as you do with to the Arhtiyas at present? The Modi government had backtracked on every single promise, be it the constitutional promise of GST or employment or doubling of farmers income. For seven months, Punjab had not got its share of GST, leaving the state struggling to manage amid Covid." Asserting that the Congress, with Rahul leading the way, will fight for the farmers till their last breath, Amarinder appealed to the MP to repeal the black laws once he becomes the Prime Minister. Rahul has come to hold the hand of the farmers, he said, terming the new farm laws an act of total injustice with the farming community. The Modi government does not know how agriculture works in Punjab and the country, he said, adding that these legislations would pave the way for scrapping MSP and winding up FCI, as per the Shanta Kumar committee recommendations. He said his government could not let the Union Government do that and will take all steps, including a Vidhan Sabha session to counter the new legislations, and challenging the Centres laws in Supreme Court. The tractor rally travelled through Bhawanigarh, Fatehgarh Chhana, Bahmna and culminated with another rally at the Grain Market at Samana in Patiala. Reggie Wellington has been taken into custody on charges of burglary and theft over $2,500 for burglarizing a local jewelry store. On Sept. 27, Bradley County deputies arrived at the Gold and Silver Exchanged on APD 40 in response to reports of a burglary. After an intensive investigation by detectives from the BCSO Property Crime Unit, authorities were able to identify Wellington as the suspect who committed the burglary. Further investigation revealed that Wellington sold some of the jewelry on Oct. 2. At the time of his arrest, Wellington had a large quantity of the stolen jewelry in his possession, some of which he was wearing. Wellington was charged with burglary and theft over $2,500. The stolen property has been returned to the owner by authorities. Two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed and three others injured as terrorists opened fire on a road opening party (ROP) on the Pampore Bypass near Srinagar on Monday afternoon. Officials said two bike-borne Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militants opened fire on personnel of the 110 Battalion of the CRPF stationed on the outskirts of Srinagar. CRPF spokesperson Junaid Khan said, Our road opening teams remain deployed on Kandizal Bridge where the attack took place. Five men were injured in the attack, two of them critically. They later succumbed to their injuries. The slain CRPF men were identified as head constable Dhirendra Tripathi and constable Shailendra Pratap Singh. The injured were taken to the armys 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar. Inspector general of police Vijay Kumar said the attack tool place at 12:45pm when the CRPF jawans were on road-opening duty. Two terrorists on a bike opened indiscriminate fire with an AK-47. Our jawans also retaliated. Our men were injured in the cross firing. However, the attackers managed to escape. We have identified them and they will be neutralised soon, he said. The IG said that the attackers were affiliated with LeT outfit. One of them had come from Pakistan, his name is Saifullah, and the other is a local terrorist. They had earlier attacked CRPF personnel at Chadoora. An assistant sub-inspector (ASI) was killed in the attack. A few days ago they had opened fire in Nowgam sector from a distance. This is their third attack, he said. The officer said the National Highway was vulnerable as a lot of traffic kept plying. Our jawans find it difficult to retaliate because we have to keep in mind the publics safety, he said. Immediately after the attack, security personnel stopped movement of traffic on the highway and launched a massive search operation in the area and in the adjoining areas to trace the attackers. The IG said that they had come in contact with militants in Tral. In Tral, there was a gunbattle after militants opened fire, which was retaliated. However, the militants managed to escape. Another operation is taking place at Lam near Sathura, he said. At least four attacks have taken place on the highway over the last two months. On September 21, militants had opened fire on CRPF men on the Nowgam-Bypass road. On August 14, two policemen were killed in an attack near Nowgam. In another incident, militants had opened fire on a check post at Pantha chowk, following which the security forces had chased them down and killed three militants in an encounter on August 30. Militants are resorting to guerilla warfare, the IG said. Apart from the highway attacks, a CRPF ASIwas killed when motorcycle-borne militants fired on personnel of the 117 battalion at Chadoora in Budgam on September 24 . Two things about this exceptionally boring process: Everyone seems to agree that all of the candidates are uninspiring, don't have any vision for the city and have absolutely no community support. Even more hilarious . . . The poor, young white dude they're making go through the motions for this job doesn't have a chance. At the very least, they need to give this guy some local coupons for his trouble given that he's merely an affirmative action interview and TKC will hand this blog over to the first city council member who asks IF they end up hiring the guy. In the meantime, here's public radio pretending like the decision wasn't already made months ago: Front row, from left: Mariah Barnes, Evelyn Julieano, Gionnah Levardi, Jianna Kruger and Madeline Harrington. Back row: coach Jorge Dejesus, Ella Stodden, Bella Tart, coach Kirk Barnes, Madison Barber, A.J. Pelkey, head coach Dave Pelkey, Kylie Duhamel, Mia Dejesus and Grace Julieano. Berkshire Force 12U Team Wins Connecticut Tourney WINDSOR, Conn. -- The Berkshire Force 12-and-under travel softball team went 5-0 to win a tournament title at Fast Pitch Nation Park over the weekend. Its victories included an 8-4 win over the Western Mass Heat and a 9-8 win over the Connecticut Seahawks in the championship game. Team members include Mariah Barnes, Evelyn Julieano, Gionnah Levardi, Jianna Kruger, Madeline Harrington, Ella Stodden, Bella Tart, Madison Barber, A.J. Pelkey, Kylie Duhamel, Mia Dejesus and Grace Julieano. Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad and 400 to 500 others have been booked under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Epidemic Diseases Act for violating prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Criminal Code of Procedure during his visit to Uttar Pradeshs Hathras on Sunday, news agency ANI reported on Monday. Azad had gone to meet the family of the 19-year-old Dalit woman who was gang-raped in Bul Gargi village on September 14 by four men who belonged to an upper caste. She was initially admitted to a hospital in Aligarh and was moved to the Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi after her condition worsened. She died on September 29. Also Read: AAP to visit Hathras, SP delegations in Balrampur, Bhadohi today After meeting her family, Azad demanded they be provided with Y security cover adding that an inquiry should be done under the inspection of a retired judge of the Supreme Court. He said that he would take the victims family to his house if the requisite security cover is not provided. Azads visit to Hathras comes at a time when several leaders of opposition parties, including Congress Partys Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, met the victims family. Priyanka Gandhi had posted five demands on behalf of the family including an investigation into the role of the Hathras district magistrate. Last Friday, the Bhim Army chief led a protest march in New Delhi and he was joined by Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury and CPI leader D Raja were also a part of the protest march. The Governor of Katsina State, Aminu Masari, says the state has played a prominent role in the development of Nigeria in terms of leadership and education. In an interview with select journalists in Abuja centred mainly on the countrys Diamond Jubilee celebrations, Mr Masari said apart from producing presidents, the state has also produced top legislative and judicial officers. He added that many of the prominent leaders after Nigeria obtained independence acquired formal education in Katsina State. Excerpts Q: As Nigeria turns 60, what is Katsinas contribution to the growth of the nation, especially in political leadership? Mr Masari: Thank you very much for this opportunity. Looking at the role and contribution of Katsina State in the development of the country politically, economically and socially, one has to go back into the archives for you to really appreciate the role played by Katsina State. Because what I am going to say is what I witnessed. But things have happened even before me about the contributions of Katsina State and its people to the emergence of what we have as Nigeria and to the emergence of what we have today as Katsina State. Sixty years ago, Katsina was a province made up of Katsina Emirate and Daura Emirate. And going beyond that, or before that, if you look at the array of leaders that governed at regional level or represented Northern Nigeria at national level, you will find out that if not all of them, majority of them schooled here in Katsina State. The late Prime Minister, Sir Tafawa Balewa, was here to study in Katsina. Late Premier of the North, Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello, was here, and the late first Minister of Defence, Muhammadu Ribadu, was here. I can go on and on and mention all the key principal officials at the level of governance in Northern Nigeria and the level of representation of the North at the national level, majority of them schooled here in Katsina. During the First Republic, that was 1960, Katsina also produced the first Minister of Lagos Affairs in the person of late Musa Yaradua. And by the time there was the 1966 coup, the first military Governor of Northern Nigeria was late Gen. Hassan Usman Katsina; a prince of Katsina. He was the first governor of then Northern Nigeria. When twelve states were created, General Hassan Usman Katsina moved to headquarters as Deputy Chief of Army Staff. So you could see that at every turn of events, somebody from Katsina or somebody who schooled in Katsina was within the leadership at both regional and state levels. If you look at the judiciary, we produced one of the longest serving Chief Justices of Nigeria in the person of Justice Mohammed Bello. Many legal luminaries, Late Galadima of Katsina, Justice Mamman Nasir, was a pioneer in the establishment of what we have today as the modern judiciary of Nigeria. He was a Supreme Court Judge and first President of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria. After the coup of 1975, we saw movement of Katsina State indigenes into the leadership. President Muhammadu Buhari, then a colonel, was made Governor of the old North-Eastern State made of six states after the coup that brought General Yakubu Gowon to power. General Shehu Musa Yaradua was a member of the military ruling council then, who later after the assassination of General Murtala Ramat Mohammed became the second-in-command in the government of General Olusegun Obasanjo. And M.D. Yusufu, another Katsina man, became the Inspector-General of Police. If you go to the financial institutions, I think we were among those who produced the first chartered accountants. I am talking about the old generations. Umaru Mutallab, who is still very much alive, was among the early generation. In the Northern part of this country, we had the first female doctor in the person of Hajiya Halima Adamu. After the handing over in 1979, going to 1983 and beyond that period, apart from producing Minister of FCT, Minister of Aviation from Katsina, we also had the Deputy Senate President in the person of Senator Mamman Danmusa. After the fall of the government of Alhaji Shehu Shagari, a Katsina man succeeded him as Head of State in the person of the current President, then General Muhammadu Buhari. You see, within the same period we had people in the government. So, after General Buhari was overthrown in a coup, in the government of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, we had ministers at very high level. And by the time of the democratic experience when General Babangida was trying to democratise, you know the role played by General Shehu Yaradua. He was the first to break the jinx, if it was. He contested the primaries of his political party against the heavy weights in the South-West and defeated them even in the South-West. In terms of political sagacity, which he demonstrated during that period, it was unparalleled, it opened doors. It changed the equation in terms of political alliance. Going through the experience of the First Republic, even the experience under Alhaji Shagari was an alliance with the political leadership of the South-East that produced Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe as President. In the Second Republic under Alhaji Shagari, there was this alliance that produced Edwin Ume-Ezeoke, Speaker of the House of Representatives and Senator John Wash Pam, Deputy Senate President. Because they were coming from the opposition party being led by South-eastern political leadership. But during General Babangida experience, General Shehu Musa Yaradua changed the equation by aligning with politicians from South-West and defeating those from that region. That time, the biggest names we were hearing were Lateef Jakande and others. He floored them, Yaradua won even in Lagos. Que: Evidently, Katsina State has played a pivotal role in major decisions taken in Nigeria in the last 60 years, and enjoyed leadership in almost every sector. What factors can we really attribute to the prominence of Katsina in Nigerias history? Mr Masari: Actually, if you go through the history of Katsina, even the Islamic education, Katsina was first among the then provinces, because there was no state, to embrace education through Islamic education. Katsina was a centre of learning and if you go round you will see evidences that predates over five hundred years of existence. Then, character. People of Katsina have character and traits that give them places of leadership. And the people of Katsina are courageous. They have courage. I think if I tell you the story of Kunan Bakin Wakei you will understand better. You know before the coming of Islam, there used to be one of the kings, not an emir. He was a king, an absolute ruler. One of his sons had the habit of not riding on horses but riding on human beings. Right here inside the city, if you go they will show you where the dyeing pits are; where it happened probably over a thousand years ago. So the man said whenever it comes to his turn for the son of the king to ride on his back, or on his neck that would be the end of it. And it happened. When it was his turn to carry the kings son, he went to the dyeing pit and jumped into the dying pit with the kings son and both of them died. That was the end of the story. That was the end of riding on human beings. Just to show you how courageous and principled Katsina people are. And then in the area of education, we have two saints: Dan Masani and Dan Marana. The story we were told, whether it was true or not, but to show the level of education as at that time when they were arguing about sighting the moon. Katsina in terms of education, in terms of courage and in terms of character; probably that is why God has always blessed Katsina State people, especially when it comes to leadership either at national or regional level. No state has had the opportunity of producing presidents four times in this country except Katsina. Q: President Muhammadu Buhari is serving the country for a second term of eight years, after an initial stint as Head of State in 1983-1985. Before him, Umaru Musa YarAdua was also President, 2007-2010, and his elder brother, Shehu Musa YarAdua, 1976-1979, was a military Vice President, Chief of General Staff. What lessons can emerging political leaders learn from Katsina leadership? Mr Masari: Well, you see, I think what is most important to learn is leadership is about service. To understand that once you are either identified or you offer yourself, it is about service to the people. Then you as a person; when I say you as a person it includes your family, you should be the last to partake. You should be the last to partake. And also, you know character is important. No amount of schooling can make up for flawed character. When awarding a degree they say: character and learning. So without character whatever level of education you have means nothing. It is simply like a mad man with a gun. Thats education without character. So the young men, when I say young men, it includes women, who are aspiring to leadership or who have been identified; for whatever reason, to come and provide leadership, should know that service to humanity, to the nation comes first. Some people may say, maybe those who had opportunity to lead from Katsina didnt do Katsina people well, that is a matter of opinion, they offered service. I didnt say they were saints. But certainly when you go through the record and you make comparative analysis, you will say: yes, these people served the nation and served their people very well. Advertisements Of course, in modern days now, if you happen to occupy those kinds of positions and you dont own this and own that, people would look at you either as not serious, a bushman or you dont know what youre doing. Internal satisfaction is more important than any other thing. If you want to be a businessman, go and be a business man. It doesnt matter, you can make wealth that can touch the sky but leadership is not a means of making money. You know we have a proverb in Hausa that you cant be running and scratching you buttock, you either run or you stop and scratch your buttock. If you combine the two, then you are not running and you are not scratching; so somebody will run and pass you. One has to be compromised. So, I think, for the young people coming up, there is hope for the country. Sixty years of the nation is not a very long period. Of course it matters a lot in the life of a man, so he can only compare what he was able to contribute within the period he was given opportunity to serve or opportunity to be alive. Because wherever we find ourselves, once alive we have contributions to make for the development of our country. Q: You became Speaker of the House of Representatives at a difficult time in the legislature. Former President Umaru YarAdua was elected to office at an unusual time as well against expectations in 2007. Seven years later, President Muhammadu Buhari was elected changing the political dynamics. Is it a coincidence that leadership tends to benefit Katsina indigenes? Mr Masari: Well, this is a question that I cannot answer. I dont know how it happens. Maybe you could call it; I dont know how to put it. I really dont know how it happens. These things, I think, happen because God wanted them to happen that way. He knows the best and He knows why and there is never a mistake in his decision. But if you ask me what I have seen in the quality of the people of Katsina, I have said so. But I am not saying that quality is what makes God to decide, if He has chosen like you said; because these words come from you not me. It is something that is very difficult for me to say why it really happens that at very critical times or very difficult times, we always have somebody from Katsina at one position or the other. I dont know how it happens or why it happens. Because all of us that find ourselves in positions at the time when we were either looking for the position or we were identified to hold the position, some of the issues that come up, nobody could say that they had premonition that they would happen. It is only God that knows what will happen tomorrow or the day after. I dont think that there is any foreknowledge by the Katsina people or by those who are making the choice; it just happens by the will of Allah. Q: How would you describe the level of political awareness in Katsina, and how does it reflect on participation in national politics? Mr Masari: I think first of all, if you look at the generality of the people, I think there is very high political awareness. Go to the basics; look at how many people registered to vote. Its an indication. The political parties have memberships. Even if you look at the membership of the political parties, and the presence of most of the political parties here. And also, if you look at the voting pattern, if you compare the population of Katsina, the population of registered voters, those who registered to vote, you will find out that Katsina State has always been number one. That shows you that there is general political awareness. People register and they come out to vote. At a point, during the era of late General Shehu Musa Yaradua, Katsina was almost like centre for all the national and international correspondents because of the political activities. Even now, Katsina is very much alive politically, very active populace and very inquisitive population, asking questions and making criticisms whether objectively or otherwise, it has always been with us. It is like I said when you were asking me about qualities of the Katsina people, I said courage. Courage gives you confidence, confidence makes you to ask questions. I think from what we have from our elders, from what weve read, the Katsina people have always been very sharp and active in asking questions especially about leadership. Q: Looking at leaders from Katsina, like the first Governor of the North, Gen. Hassan Usman Katsina, who was also Chief of Army Staff during the Civil War, and later Deputy Chief of General Staff, Supreme Headquarters, do you see Katsina maintaining its frontline leadership role in Nigeria? Mr Masari: I think it will, especially if more attention is given to education because what made Katsina to have that headway in the old Northern Nigeria and even beyond Northern Nigeria is education. Like I told you earlier, that even those who were not indigenes of the state, or province at that time, had opportunity to go to school here. I think in Northern Nigeria, the first post-primary institution was established here in Katsina. So you could see that if we want to invent a way we can do so, especially through education. Because education gives you opportunity for character. Of course there are some people that despite their level of education that lack character. Probably, they missed it at home. But certainly, if we go back and invest more in education; certainly, the sky is the limit. We are not even talking about political leadership alone, we are looking at all sectors of life. People who have gone to the moon, you dont have to be president to go to the moon. Being in office is simply one segment of the entire human development. Now, science and tech seem to have superseded everything now. Yes, you need leadership to drive it. To drive it, you need leaders; competent, hardworking and trustworthy leaders. So, I do believe it is doable, it was done before, it can be done now and it can be done tomorrow. It is not magic. It is not about magic. Its not magic, it is simply hard work, loyalty and dedication. Q: As a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, you brought focus and stability to the lower house and ensured maturity, giving legislatures a renewed sense of national belonging. What is your advice for legislature? Mr Masari: Well, I think, going forward; you are not starting with the members but you should start with the process. What we have seen during our time and in the subsequent times, we saw a situation where, especially at that time, where people, especially governors, were insisting that people loyal to them or people they like go to the National Assembly. One good thing about the National Assembly is that you may go in with a narrow minded idea, when you face Nigeria you see the aggregate of opinion, then it changes you to a better person. We all went there as local politicians and majority of us came out as national politicians. We now understand the country more and better. But going there simply because of the aura of the office is not good for the nation. You need people who have the intention or the mind of giving representation in the National Assembly. As a good legislator, the best you can do is to know how to subsume your constituency into a national interest. What happened, especially when the Late President Umaru Yaradua fell sick and the processes, I think, that was when the National Assembly really was shaken. But I do believe we live in a dynamic society that keeps changing, so really I cannot say our time was better, because our time suited that time and this time fitted the current legislators so they had to. The times are different and the nation is moving at a speed that you cannot say what worked in 2003 to 2007 when we were there can still work today. Some of it may and some may not. So really, I think we need people who have the right qualification to be there. You know what I mean by qualification is not paper qualification. I mean qualification to represent and they provide good representation. Q: How would you describe the strength of democratic institutions in the country, particularly relations between the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary? Mr Masari: You see, the institutions that can be very strong are institutions that can withstand any shock. For example, I want you to imagine, if you have a very strong and willful president, like in some countries of the world, in Nigeria with weak institutions, it is the strength of the institution that will control the president so it is not only about the National Assembly or the Executive or the Judiciary and/or other institutions that make governance work. The Executive, I think, as far as the National Assembly is concerned, it had a bad time that helped it to become to be a good institution. Because we had former President Obasanjo, it was all what that happened between the National Assembly and Executive. President Obasanjo, then, coming back from the background of the military to become a civilian president under a democracy system, it was also challenging to him. And the National Assembly being new had no previous experience. This was what we had; the drag me and drag you we had with President Obasanjo helped to build the institution of the National Assembly to be on its feet. Because most of the internal institutions of the National Assembly are working, you saw them how they worked, at least the bureaucracy in the National Assembly worked and flushed out some civil servants who had retired but didnt want to leave. They wanted to manipulate the system. You could see the strength of even the internal mechanism within the National Assembly that pushed the bureaucracy out in conformity with the law. So if you want the National Assembly to work, you want the Executive to work, you want the Judiciary and other institutions that will force this institution to work, the law must be in place. But if we are talking about independence, well yes, National Assembly within a very short period has come of age because of the emergence of leadership, independent of any influence. Leadership that took decisions, that made the assembly look good. Everybody thought the Nigerian constitution could be changed overnight, it didnt happen, and that happened because the National Assembly was on its feet. Q: What does it feel like being the governor of a state that has produced two presidents rated highly on integrity, with one currently serving a second term in Nigerias 21-year old Fourth Republic? Mr Masari: Very challenging; very challenging. In Katsina, the people are mindful of their history, very much mindful of where they are coming from, so the demand they place on leaders is very high. And since we have leaders; those who passed away and those who are serving now, whom I have told you that you can traverse the whole of this place, and even in Abuja you cannot see an establishment that belongs to a former leader. That has become an eyesore. The expectation of the people on leadership is to see how far are we are able to follow the footsteps of our former leaders and current leaders. So for that, I am always mindful that the number one citizen of this country is from Katsina and so the number one citizen in Nigeria is the President. We happen to come from the same political party, which means politically, he is the number one. So I want you to imagine the challenge, and if its someone like President Buhari known as Mr Intergrity, the expectation on some of us is very high. Que: Despite being a state with majority Muslim population, Katsina has been rated high on religious and ethnic tolerance. What lessons can other parts of the nation draw from Katsina on peaceful co-habitation? Mr Masari: Well, when we came we know we have, like you said, over 90 per cent Muslims. They may belong to different denominations, but the few of us categorised in two; one, indigenous Christians that are natives to Katsina and those who are either here on business or on work and chosen to make here their home. They have an umbrella, but we as a government decided to go beyond the umbrella to identify the indigenous Christians in Katsina State and their leadership because if youre not indigenous to Katsina, you could lay claim to another place. When you go to Lagos you claim Lagos. Some people are indigenes of Katsina. They have nowhere else. So we must first recognise them and give them a sense of belonging. I thank God I played a key role in establishing the office in 1999, because the first person to occupy the Office of Special Adviser to the Governor on mainly Christian pilgrims came from my federal constituency, Malumfashi. But when we came we upgraded the office because Christian Affairs is not only about pilgrimage. Pilgrimage is an annual event. So we upgraded the office. We also brought another lady to give the women wing a sense of belonging. So in everything we do, they have their say and they have their share. So if we go under their umbrella, we invite leaders of denominations and associations. The leader of the state Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is my very good friend. In the village where I grew up, there were people, then, who didnt have any religion. Most of them have become Christians now. Que: How is the security situation in Katsina State and your efforts in improving the situation in the North West? Mr Masari: Well, today they we can say we thank God because a lot has been achieved and a lot of work needs to be done to sustain the level of peace and go forward. At least, what we used to have as massive attacks have now been reduced to isolated cases of one or two and these isolated cases are not coming from the forest areas. They are within the community. You know, when we had COVID-19, people who came from outside Nigeria were suspects, gradually we moved to communal transmissions. So the stage we are now in addressing issues of banditry has become communal problem. Because those young men who were hitherto army of bandits in the forest of Katsina; now the leaders have moved into the forests of Zamfara; that is, the people who were calling and training them are no longer there. They have been taught the evil act of banditry, evil act of kidnapping, evil act of cattle rustling. Now you will be surprised somebody was telling me they went to a household and stole goats and chickens. Suddenly we have many people who know them. They started gradually and have become very dangerous. People were telling them the military are here, police are there. Some people also misinformed the security outfits. Security outfits, like all human endeavours, face their own challenges as well, just like local traditional leaders and religious leaders. So a lot of sensitisation needs to be done for people to understand the dangers. Apart from what we are doing with the military, police, civil defence and local government councils, our contributions to security outfits, we are now amending our laws to create security committees at ward levels in order to bring back district councils at district headquarters. Principally, their main objective is to look at security issues. We have established Office of Special Security Adviser, who is here, and we have also established offices in zones and three senatorial districts. We are going to equip their offices and bring experienced retired security officers to advice. In 2015, it was cattle rustling, by 2018 and 2019 it had become banditry. As we moved into 2019, it became kidnapping, rape. Now, we are dealing with two types of kidnapping; kidnapping for money and kidnapping for rape. So, we dont know what will emerge tomorrow. We have to prepare ourselves. We are not averse to dialogue but what we are saying; this time around, dialogue has to start between neighbours. These nine local governments that are in the frontline, in addition to them, we have three local governments with forest entries. We have Dandume, Matazu, Musawa and Dutsinma. They dont border the forest directly but the forest areas also extend, linking routes that provide going in and out for the bandits. The issue of this security is so important to be left in the hands of either the police alone or the civil defence. We want citizen participation; we want the community participation as it was done before in the area of security. So thats where we are. The state government will do this bearing in mind that the security itself is under Exclusive list in the 1999 Constitution as amended. Whatever we are doing is to support, and since our people are the victims, we will have to take the drivers seat to assist the law enforcement agencies. Que: Where do you see Nigeria in the nearest future? Mr Masari: Well, I think it is unfortunate that most of the people who had opportunity to lead this country one way or the other have become prophets of doom instead of raising hope and offering constructive criticisms. They should offer way out instead of predicting collapse or end of the country. We need to be more responsible in what we say and how we approach issues. All these predictions have been done before. I see a bright future. When you say leadership, its not about being a governor, no, somebody who is not a governor in Katsina maybe more influential than me. Somebody who leads market women is a leader; somebody who leads motor trucks is a leader. Its not all about looking at you, if you say this camera is not good, maybe I am not sitting in the right position for the camera to capture me. But we tend to look at only people at the top. Yes, the person at the top maybe responsible for things like that, but all of us can be liable. Union Women and Child Development Minister on Monday said Chief Minister has assured her that "appropriate action" will be taken in the alleged gang-rape and death of a Dalit woman in Hathras district. Asked to comment on the Hathras tragedy, which has triggered a nationwide outrage, the BJP leader said, "It would be inappropriate on my part to talk about an ongoing investigation." The government has handed over the probe into the case to the CBI. "In the Hathras case, the CM has assured me of stringent action. Post my conversation (with Adityanath) I saw that he has referred the case to the CBI. "I am sure that once the SIT report (of the UP police) is submitted, he will take appropriate action against the persons concerned (over cremation row)," she told reporters at the Gujarat BJP Headquarters here. The 19-year-old Dalit woman, who died in a Delhi hospital a fortnight after she was allegedly gang-raped in Hathras, was cremated on September 30 with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night. Irani was here to explain to farmers benefits of the new farm laws recently enacted by Parliament. Responding to queries regarding her ministry's role in securing justice for the Hathras victim's family, she underlined that law and order is a state subject. The Women and Child Development Ministry coordinates with states and investigative agencies to ensure justice in such cases, said Irani, the Lok Sabha MP from Amethi in Uttar Pradesh. Asked if the Commission for Women had tried to find out why the victim was cremated in the dead of the night, the minister said the UP CM has given assurance that action will be taken against the guilty. She added the Modi government has taken several steps for women's safety such as setting up help desks for them at 10,000 police stations and disbursement of Rs 9,000 crore to states under the Nirbhaya Fund. (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.) Theres one message from the British government thats been clear as the coronavirus rages again: the labor market is about to go through a shock not seen in a generation. The truth is that the UK economy was overdue a reckoning. The pandemic has just exposed the cracks that were already appearing in the model that came out of the tumultuous overhaul of the 1980s. From banks and retailers to hospitality, businesses that have underpinned the economy since the purge of heavy industry by Margaret Thatcher were already being upended by a shift in consumer behaviour and automation. A record employment rate masked widening income inequality, cheap labour and a productivity rate that trailed most of the worlds advanced economies. What will come out the other end depends on questions politicians and businesses are struggling to answer as Britain leaves the European Unions single market and the pandemic reshapes the global economy. When you are at the bleeding edge of an economic revolution, its hard to see where the jobs are going to come from, said Mark Price, former deputy chairman of department store chain John Lewis Partnership Ltd. who served as minister for trade policy in 2016 to 2017. There will be increasing levels of unemployment unfortunately, but there will be new jobs too. Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak scaled back wage support to focus on saving jobs that could outlast the pandemic. He will lay out more of his vision on Monday to the Conservative Partys conference. We will not let talent wither, or waste, we will help all who want it, find new opportunity and develop new skills, he will say, according to an excerpt of his speech. Also Read: Oil prices rebound 2% as Trumps doctors raise prospect of hospital discharge Sunaks decision not to extend a blanket furlough plan leaves unemployment headed for levels not seen since Thatcher implemented her shock therapy. Like then, the jobless number could exceed 3 million as the free market again decides which jobs live and die. That turnaround forged a nation riding a global wave of financial deregulation and flexible labor markets. But it also became dependent on services more than any other big economy in Europe, for four in five jobs. As a result, the UK suffered a deeper contraction at the height of the pandemic, and the recovery will take until at least 2023. There are two dynamics at play, said Ian Cheshire, chairman of Barclays UK and former chairman of department store group Debenhams Plc: The turbocharged acceleration of irreversible trends already under way and the asteroid impact of Covid-19. Much of the pandemics impact will be transitory in some sectors, Cheshire said, speaking in a personal capacity. Looking at hospitality, for example, are bars dead? No, people are still going to want to go out. But are there some parts of the retail sector that are dead? Definitely. Its many of the jobs that provided a lifeline in the 1980s that are being destroyed now. The fastest shrinking occupations over the past decade were government administrators, retail cashiers and bank clerks. One third of UK bank branches closed in the last five years, according to consumer group Which. TSB Bank announced on Sept. 30 it would close a third of its branches and shed more than 900 jobs. Click here for complete coverage of the Covid-19 pandemic Hospitality discarded the most jobs of any industry in the second quarter, almost 137,000 positions. Already in 2016, the British Retail Consortium estimated that at least 900,000 jobs could be lost by 2025 and 74,000 stores closed. Yet that doesnt mean many jobs wont return, said Simon Wolfson, who runs British clothing chain Next Plc. Unlike the 1980s, when steel, mining and shipbuilding were abandoned, people will still want to go on holiday, eat out and get married, he said. Sadly jobs will be lost, but do not underestimate the flexibility and innovation deeply rooted in the UK economy, Wolfson said. No one should try and second guess where those jobs will emerge. The free market will determine whether they are in call centers, coding houses, warehouses, yoga studios or elsewhere. On the same day that TSB announced job cuts, supermarket Morrisons said it planned to hire 1,000 people to work on fulfilling Amazon grocery orders. At British Airways, which is shedding 10,000 positions, former staff are getting work in the National Health Service, as Amazon, Yodel and UPS delivery drivers and in government jobs. To critics of letting markets solely dictate, the current crisis has made clear that the pre-virus model was broken for too many people. Frontline workers who kept the economy going during lockdownkeeping hospitals going, delivering food and transporting goodswere also among the lowest paid. Death rates from the coronavirus were higher in poorer post-industrial regions. Part of Johnsons electoral program was to level up the country through massive infrastructure spending. One in 8 people with a job also lived in poverty before the pandemic hit, according to Dave Innes, head of economics at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, an anti-poverty organization. We know that the recovery from the last financial crisis was associated with growth in insecure work, he said. So its one strategy you could take to allow more unemployment now, but if youre going to do that lets really make sure that the adjustment that takes place gets us into a better position. In the past decade alone, the shifting careers landscape has seen van drivers up there with software developers, administrators and financial managers in experiencing the biggest growth in job opportunities. Meanwhile, a review of the governments own list of occupations identified shortfalls of nursing assistants, care workers, butchers and bricklayers. Such trends could be used by companies and the government to get ahead and foster job creation, according to Cheshire, who was also CEO of retail group Kingfisher Plc from 2008 to 2015. If you take the analogy of what happened in the 1980s, you wouldnt say I am going to go and open a few deep-seam coal mines now, he said. I would rather see investment in STEM, design and technology. The problem is you cant predict where and what the jobs will be necessary. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 05:37:16|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close An Israeli medical worker wearing protective gear works in the coronavirus ward in the Galilee Medical Center in northern Israeli city of Nahariya on Oct. 1, 2020. (JINI/Handout via Xinhua) --Iran's COVID-19 infections rise to 471,772; --Saudi Arabia resumes Umrah pilgrimage in Mecca after over 6-month halt; --Iraq reports 3,210 new cases, 379,141 in total; --Turkey's tally of confirmed cases hits 324,443. CAIRO, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- Iran announced on Sunday an overnight registration of 3,653 new COVID-19 infections, taking the tally of infections to 471,772. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia resumed the Umrah pilgrimage in Mecca amid strict anti-coronavirus precautions after a hiatus of more than six months. Sima Sadat Lari, spokeswoman for Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education, said at her daily briefing that 1,483 new patients had to be hospitalized in the past 24 hours. From Saturday to Sunday, 211 deaths of people infected with the novel coronavirus were registered, taking the death toll to 26,957. A total of 389,966 patients have recovered from COVID-19 and been released from hospitals, but currently 4,154 people remain in critical condition in intensive care units, according to Lari. People wearing face masks walk beside Chitgar Lake in Tehran, Iran, on Sept. 29, 2020. (Xinhua/Ahmad Halabisaz) Saudi Arabia registered 390 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total cases to 336,387. The death toll reached 4,875 with the reporting of 25 new fatalities. Saudi Arabia resumed the Umrah pilgrimage in Mecca amid strict anti-coronavirus precautions after a hiatus of more than six months. The first group of pilgrims arrived and performed Umrah at Mecca's Grand Mosque early on Sunday, under precautions to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque tweeted. The Iraqi Health Ministry reported 3,210 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the nationwide infections to 379,141. The ministry also reported 52 more deaths, raising the death toll from the infectious virus to 9,399 in the country. It said that 3,817 more patients recovered, bringing the total number of recoveries to 307,482. Ziyad Hazim, a member of the ministry's media team, told the official al-Sabah newspaper that when to reopen schools will be decided after the Shiite ritual of Arbaeen. He said the authorities will possibly put the opening of the schools after the autumn. Children wearing face masks go roller skating at a park in Ankara, Turkey, Oct. 3, 2020. (Xinhua/Mustafa Kaya) Turkey's number of COVID-19 patients increased by 1,429, raising the tally to 324,443, the Turkish Health Ministry announced. Meanwhile, 57 people died in the past 24 hours, taking the death toll to 8,441, according to the data shared by the ministry. The number of COVID-19 cases in Israel reached 266,775 on Sunday, with 2,332 new cases, the state's Ministry of Health said. The number of death cases reached 1,719, with 37 new fatalities. The number of recoveries rose to 195,629, with 4,378 new recoveries, said the ministry. Morocco reported 2,044 new COVID-19 cases, raising the total number in the country to 133,272. In addition, the death toll rose by 37 to 2,330, while 461 patients are in intensive care units, said the Moroccan Ministry of Health in a press release. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced 1,041 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total confirmed number in the country to 98,801. In addition, 1,001 more patients recovered from the virus, taking the tally of recoveries in the UAE to 88,123, the Ministry of Health and Prevention said. A Palestinian man collects olives at an olive orchard in Deir Al-Balah town of Gaza Strip, Oct. 3, 2020. (Xinhua/Rizek Abdeljawad) The Qatari health ministry announced 159 new COVID-19 infections, raising the total number of confirmed cases in the Gulf state to 126,498. And 173 more recovered from the virus, bringing the overall recoveries to 123,475, while the fatalities remained 216. The Omani health ministry announced 2,685 new COVID-19 infections, raising the total number of confirmed cases in the sultanate to 101,270. And 1,768 people recovered, taking the overall number of recoveries to 90,296, while 42 others reportedly died, raising the death toll to 977. Egypt reported late on Saturday 109 new COVID-19 infections, bringing the total cases registered in the country since the outbreak of the pandemic to 103,575. The death toll rose to 5,970, while the total recoveries reached 97,274. Kuwait reported 567 new COVID-19 cases and four more deaths, raising the tally of infections to 107,025 and the death toll to 624, the Health Ministry said in a statement. The ministry also announced the recovery of 605 more patients, raising the total recoveries in the country to 99,040. Lebanon's number of COVID-19 cases increased by 1,002 to 44,482 while the death toll went up by eight to 406, the Health Ministry said. Palestine recorded 420 new cases infected with the novel coronavirus, bringing the total number of infections in the Palestinian territories to 52,433. It also reported one new fatality from the COVID-19, raising the total number of deaths to 391. Among the Minuwangoda apparel factory employees who underwent PCR tests, 69 tested positive for COVID -19, Army Commander told the media. And the reason is that we know now that this infection is most infectious at around the time people develop symptoms so very early on in the illness, he said. It really needs to be done within a matter of a day or so if you're going to actually have any effect. The latest lawsuit filed by an employee at the Gloucester County Prosecutors Office alleges racial discrimination was one of the reasons the detective was passed over for a promotion. Deon Henry, a 16-year department veteran, claims in a lawsuit filed last month in Superior Court that trouble began after he testified four years ago in a lawsuit brought by another prosecutors office detective. In that case, Detective Bradd Thompson sued alleging discrimination based on his religion and military service. Thompson, who also serves as a colonel in the U.S. Air Force Air National Guard, signed a settlement agreement resolving that case in 2016. Henrys truthful testimony and evidence in that case tended to support an inference of discrimination, according to the new suit, and the detective said he faced retaliation as a result. In June 2018, Henry approached then-county prosecutor Charles A. Fiore with the idea to form a diversity committee, citing poor treatment of minorities and women within the GCPO. Henry alleges in his lawsuit that, soon after that meeting, Fiore told him, I liked you, until this diversity committee thing came up. Later that year, six promotional spots opened up in the office for which Henry claims he was qualified. Sixteen people applied for those spots, including three candidates who are racial minorities, according to the suit. Henry, who is African American, was one of those candidates. He states he was interviewed for 45 minutes, while the candidates who ultimately received the promotions were interviewed for as little as five minutes. While Henry was as qualified or more qualified than all of the candidates that received promotions, according to his suit, he was not selected. In fact, none of the racial minority candidates were selected for any of the promotions, he noted. Plaintiff was denied a promotion because he is African American, as well as in retaliation for his speaking out against discrimination in the Thompson matter, the suit charges, adding that no one who testified in the Thompson case against the county was awarded a promotion. Henry notes that Fiore was a decision-maker and/or had influence over a decision maker on the promotions. Fiore declined to comment on the lawsuit itself, but said Monday that he actually initiated the creation of the diversity committee. As another example of retaliation, the suit describes a 2017 incident in which a rifle was taken away from Henry without justification by official brass. No additional explanation is included in the complaint. The suit, which names the county as defendant, is the latest in a string of cases filed by current GCPO employees alleging various forms of discrimination, harassment and retaliation. Fiore, who was appointed prosecutor in 2017, resigned abruptly in March amid allegations of a hostile work environment, claims that he had made crude remarks to staff members, and word that the state Attorney Generals office was conducting an investigation of the office. The AGs office has remained mum on the nature of their investigation, which was revealed in lawsuit-related testimony. Soon after Fiores departure, Detective Breia Renner field a suit alleging sexual harassment by Fiore, denied promotions and retaliation. In March, Lt. James M. Ballenger Jr. filed a lawsuit claiming he was demoted and retaliated against for complaining about Fiores behavior and for testifying in a previous lawsuit brought by another detective, Eric Shaw. Shaw claimed in a suit filed in 2017 and amended last year that he was discriminated against for his military service, passed over for promotion and retaliated against for testifying in the Thompson case. Then Thompson filed a new lawsuit in July saying he was denied promotion because of his military service and because of his previous suit against the agency. On top of these cases, GCPO Lt. Stacie Lick sued in May, claiming gender discrimination and retaliation for doing her job of investigating internal affairs complaints. Her case doesnt accuse Fiore of wrongdoing, but says he alerted her soon after he resigned that she was on a hit list of staffers he was supposed to have fired during his tenure. After Fiores departure, Attorney General Gurbir Grewal named Christine A. Hoffman as his interim replacement. Officials with the county and the prosecutors office declined to comment on the suit. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. Sarah Jessica Parker remains part of one of the most celebrated Halloween cult classics Hocus Pocus. Though the film initially premiered to critical condemnation, audiences have since gone on to grasp the loveability in the laughable, the radiance in the ridiculousness. Sarah Jessica Parker poses at her dedicated beach closet as representation of her Deauville Talent Award | Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images Parker played Sarah Sanderson in the 1993 fantasy/comedy opposite Bette Midler and Kathy Najimy. In the campy narrative, she flew on a broomstick, sung to innocent youths, beckoning them with Come, Little Children, and more. Yet, how does Parker feel about Halloween? Is she a fan of the holiday, and what was her go-to costume growing up? During an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Parker discussed Halloween, explaining the costume her mother sewed that she loved. RELATED: Sarah Jessica Parkers Son Has Already Made His Hollywood Debut in Sex and the City Sarah Jessica Parker discusses dressing up for Halloween with Stephen Colbert Parker and Colbert jokingly battled over their fierce mothers, as Parker has 7 siblings while Colbert is one of 11. Though noting its not a contest, the two went on to bicker over who won whose mom had it the hardest and rose to the occasion. They noted that their parents sewed their costumes from scratch before Parker went on to explain why she enjoyed dressing up as a lion. Parker told Colbert: I liked being a lion. She made a beautiful, really detailed lion costume with a mane, and it was yellow and brown, and it was beautiful. Sarah Jessica Parker / The Late Show with Stephen Colbert RELATED: Watch These Bette Midler Movies If You Loved Hadassah Gold in The Politician Parker explained that growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, she had to put boots on over her shoes, which sort of ruined the whole effect, but she was in it for the candy; she wasnt the most passionate about dressing up. Sarah Jessica Parker was all about the candy; the costume wasnt a big deal to her Parker told Colbert, I just did it for the candy, revealing that she didnt care about dressing up. While most young kids remain fixated on their costumes, Parker was putting on a whole getup and taking out the big pillowcase to get the candy she couldnt otherwise get. Parker told Colbert that, growing up, her mom didnt keep candy in the house; explaining that her mother was quite modern at the time concerning sweets. Thus, Parker would go out, fill up a big pillowcase, come home to dump it, and head back out for more trick or treating. Though Sarah Jessica Parker remains intimately tied to one of the most famous Halloween movies and associated witch looks of all time, she dressed up for the sweets, not for the photos. By PTI NEW DELHI: In its biggest military logistics operation in decades, the Indian Army has rushed tanks, heavy weaponry, ammunition, fuel, food and essential winter supplies to high-altitude areas in eastern Ladakh to maintain its combat readiness through the treacherous winter of around four months, military sources said on Sunday. They said Chief of Army Staff Gen MM Naravane, aided by a group of top commanders, has been personally involved in planning and overseeing the implementation of the mammoth exercise that began in mid-July and is nearing completion. A significant number of T-90 and T-72 tanks, artillery guns and infantry combat vehicles were flown into various sensitive areas including Chushul and Demchock sectors as part of the logistics operation, the sources said Under the operation, the Army transported large quantities of clothes, tents, food items, communication equipment, fuel, heaters and other supplies to army personnel deployed at forward posts and mountain passes at the height of over 16,000 feet. "By far it is the biggest logistics operation that has been implemented in Ladakh post Independence. Its scale is humongous," a senior military official told PTI on the condition of anonymity. To deal with any Chinese misadventure, India has deployed over three additional Army divisions in eastern Ladakh where the temperature fluctuates between minus five to minus 25 degrees Celsius from October to January. The sources said India imported winter clothing and gear from a couple of countries in Europe and they have already been supplied to the troops in eastern Ladakh. Almost all transport aircraft and helicopters of the Indian Air Force including C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster were used to transport thousands of tonnes of food, fuel and other equipment to the region. The Indian Army has decided to maintain its current strength of troops in all key areas in eastern Ladakh in the winter months as there was no sign of early resolution of the border row with China. ALSO READ | Is Ladakh part of Chinas hybrid war against India? The Indian Air Force (IAF) has also decided to remain on high alert in the forward air bases along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The Indian and Chinese armies held the sixth round of Corps Commander talks on September 21 in the backdrop of deteriorating situation in the Chushul sector following three incidents of shots being fired in the air by the Chinese military since the intervening night of August 29 and 30. Following the incidents, India had occupied at least 20 strategic heights around southern and northern banks of Pangong lake. In the talks, the two sides agreed not to escalate the situation by announcing a series of measures. However, there was no breakthrough on the disengagement process. The sources said a series of talks will be required for the disengagement process to begin with. The situation in eastern Ladakh escalated manifold after 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a clash in Galwan Valley on June 15. The Chinese side acknowledged suffering casualties, but it is yet to divulge the details. According to an American intelligence report, the number of casualties on the Chinese side was 35. The situation further deteriorated following at least three attempts by the soldiers of the PLA to "intimidate" Indian troops along the northern and southern bank of Pangong lake area in the last three weeks where even shots were fired in the air for the first time at the LAC in 45 years. As the tensions escalated further, the foreign ministers of the two countries held talks on the sidelines of a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meet in Moscow on September 10 where they reached a five-point agreement to defuse the situation in eastern Ladakh. The agreement was the basis for the sixth round of Corps Commander-level talks on Monday which was also attended for the first time by a joint secretary from the MEA. The agreement aimed at ending the tense standoff included measures like quick disengagement of troops, avoiding action that could escalate tensions, adherence to all agreements and protocols on border management and steps to restore peace along the LAC. Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Alderman Mark Fielding accepts decorative banner in an official ceremony at Ballycastle beach, honouring the town's role in the Harry Potter companion book. He is with Cross and Passion College pupils Aine (11) and Oisin Franey (9). Ballycastle has been given Quidditch town status in celebration of a new Harry Potter reference book. The Co Antrim seaside town is one of just 11 towns and villages across the UK and Ireland to receive the accolade in celebration of Quidditch Through The Ages Illustrated Edition, an essential companion to the Harry Potter series and guide on the wizards favourite sport. Bloomsbury Publishing presented Causeway Coast and Glens mayor, Alderman Mark Fielding, with a decorative banner on Monday which featured gold Quidditch hoops celebrating the towns fictitious Quidditch team, Ballycastle Bats, to mark the release of the book written by J K Rowling and illustrated by Emily Gravett. Alderman Fielding was pictured next to the banner in an outdoor, socially-distanced presentation with young Harry Potter fans, including 11-year-old Aine Franey from Cross and Passion College. Aine said she was over the moon that her native Ballycastle has achieved official Quidditch status. I'm obsessed with Harry Potter and dream of playing Quidditch, so Im really happy to find out that I now live in an Honorary Quidditch Town, she said. I loved visiting the sign and its great that Ballycastle has been honoured in this way. Expand Close Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Alderman Mark Fielding accepts decorative banner in an official ceremony at Ballycastle beach, honouring the town's role in the Harry Potter companion book. He is with Cross and Passion College pupils Aine (11) and Oisin Franey (9). Darren Kidd/PinPep / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Alderman Mark Fielding accepts decorative banner in an official ceremony at Ballycastle beach, honouring the town's role in the Harry Potter companion book. He is with Cross and Passion College pupils Aine (11) and Oisin Franey (9). A spokesperson from Bloomsbury Publishing said they were proud to recognise Ballycastle as an Honorary Quidditch Town alongside 10 other towns and villages across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Quidditch captured the imaginations of children and adults across the world, and the new book Quidditch Through the Ages, beautifully illustrated by Emily Gravett, is a magical companion for those who want to immerse themselves in the wizarding world of Harry Potter, said the spokesperson. "Harry Potter fans can now unearth the real-life towns and villages inspiring the names of Quidditch teams and we ask anyone planning a visit to Holyhead to first check national and local travel guidance on coronavirus to ensure their visit is made safely. "For communities that are currently experiencing stricter measures, we encourage people to support their favourite Quidditch team virtually by visiting the official Harry Potter fan club, Wizarding World. British and Irish mayors accepted the Honorary Quidditch Town accolades and received the golden banners in outdoor, socially distanced presentations alongside some young Harry Potter fans that visited the landmarks. U.S. Rep. John Katko is battling for his political survival, locked in a dead heat with Dana Balter in the final weeks of their campaign for Congress, according to a Siena College | Syracuse.com poll released today. Balter, a Syracuse Democrat, leads Katko, R-Camillus, 45-42% among likely voters in the 24th Congressional District, the poll found. The race is within the polls margin of error of plus or minus 5.1 percentage points. The poll is the first independent survey in the 24th Congressional District election, one of the nations most competitive and closely watched races. At least two previous polls from Democrats also showed the election battle emerging as a tossup. The new poll reveals for the first time that Katko is thought of unfavorably by Central New Yorkers and has lost support among key independent voters with his embrace of an unpopular president. At the same time, Balter has been unable to present herself as a convincing alternative to independent voters, nor shed the unfavorable image that held her back in the 2018 election against Katko, according to Siena College pollsters. But she benefits from having a popular Democratic presidential candidate at the top of the ticket. The result is a statistical dead heat as absentee voting begins and only four weeks before Election Day, Nov. 3. About 49% of likely voters in the district now have an unfavorable view of Katko compared to 39% who had a favorable view, the poll found. Its the first time since Katko successfully ran for Congress in 2014 that he is viewed unfavorably by voters in a Siena poll. One factor likely driving the change is Katkos endorsement of President Donald Trump in January and his support for many of the presidents policies, said Don Levy, director of the Siena College Research Institute. Related: Biden holds lead over Trump in Central New York (Siena | Syracuse.com poll) The poll found Joe Biden leads Trump by 19 points (53-34%) in the presidential race among likely voters in the Central New York district. Katkos on the same ticket and has supported a Republican president who is very unpopular and is poised to lose in this district, Levy said. Katko has this tough battle to carve out a middle ground, and ostensibly hes doing that. But will he be able to eke out a win here? Hes got a challenge. Katko is among only three House Republicans who still hold office in a congressional district that Hillary Clinton won in the 2016 presidential election. Clinton defeated Trump by about 4 percentage points in the district. Katko declined to endorse or vote for Trump in 2016 and called for him to step down as the GOP presidential nominee after video surfaced of Trump making lewd remarks about women. During his six years in Congress, Katko has tried to cultivate an independent brand to reflect the nature of his swing district. He has benefited in the past with support from independent voters who are not enrolled in a political party. But the new poll shows Katkos support eroding among independent voters. He holds a 45-40% lead over Balter with independent voters, down from a 53-40% lead over Balter in an October 2018 Siena | Syracuse.com poll. Katko defeated Balter by 5 percentage points in the 2018 election. This year, Katko has used a barrage of ads to reinforce a negative view that voters hold of Balter. Balter is thought of unfavorably by 46% of likely voters and favorably by 36%, the poll found. Voter opinion is essentially unchanged since the October 2018 poll found that 42% of likely voters viewed Balter unfavorably, compared to 33% who had a favorable view. The survey tells us Balter is not the strongest of candidates, Levy said. Theres no movement (in the way voters view her) from two years ago. The big difference this time is that shes on a ticket with Biden, whose favorability is strong. Katkos strength, while weaker, continues to be his crossover appeal to independents and some Democrats, Levy said. The poll found of those who are likely to vote for Biden, 10% plan to split their ticket and vote for Katko. Among likely Trump voters, 0% plan to split their ticket and vote for Balter. Balter is underperforming Biden by 8 percentage points among likely voters in the district and needs to consolidate that support to pull out a victory Nov. 3, Levy said. If indeed Balter can build a better connection to the Biden voters, shell do better, Levy said. It would be in Balters interests to put her arms around Biden. Katko has clearly gotten about as much out of Trump as he can get. Bidens popularity in the district is reflected by his presence in both candidates' commercials. Katko has tried to portray Balter as too liberal for the former vice president. Katko paid for a TV ad that attempted to show a rift between Balter and Biden over the future of health care. The ad features a video clip of Biden criticizing the Medicare for All plan of Sen. Bernie Sanders, which Balter does not support. Biden quickly countered Katkos ad, making Balter his first endorsement in a campaign for Congress. About 10% of all likely voters and 14% of independent voters remain undecided five weeks before the election, according to the poll. Levy said Balter would be wise to court the undecided independent voters. The new poll found her support among independents at 40%, unchanged since October 2018, even as Katkos support declined among those voters. One independent voter who participated in the poll said shes undecided on her choice for president, but she had no problem making up her mind in the congressional election. I am going to vote for Katko, said Jeanne Leathley, a hairdresser who lives in Syracuse and voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016. The primary reason is I have no idea who this Dana Balter really is, Leathley said. Im OK with the way things are, so I feel like the incumbent is doing a good job. Jerry Stuart, 57, a truck driver from Clay, had the opposite feeling. Stuart said hes seen enough of Katko and feels that hes lost the independent streak that best represents Central New York. He has shown over and over again that when it really matters, he is very partisan, Stuart said of Katko. He does some things to make it look like hes independent. But when it matters, he votes with his party. Stuart, a registered Democrat who considers himself an independent voter, said his concerns were best illustrated by Katkos vote in December 2019 against impeaching Trump. My take on Katko is that hes a pretty decent guy but his ideologies are not a fit with most of the people in this district, Stuart said. Related: How Central New Yorkers plan to vote in 2020 election (Siena | Syracuse.com poll) Stuart and Leathley were among 414 likely voters surveyed in the poll, which was conducted by live operators who called land lines and cell phones on Monday and Tuesday (Sept. 28-29) in the 24th Congressional District. The district covers all of Onondaga, Cayuga and Wayne counties, and the western half of Oswego County, including the cities of Fulton and Oswego. The poll found that Central New York voters are unhappy with the direction of the United States and may be eager for change. When asked if the United States is on the right track or headed in the wrong direction, 60% of likely voters in the district said the nation is headed in the wrong direction and 26% said the right track. About 15% were undecided or had no opinion. The poll also examined whether the presence of Syracuse lawyer Steve Williams on the Working Families Party ballot line would influence the outcome of the election. Williams initially received the partys line as a placeholder, a legal move in New York, pending the outcome of the Democratic primary election between Balter and Francis Conole. When Balter won the June 23 primary election, the Working Families Party endorsed Balter and attempted to move Williams off the line by nominating him for a judges post in Queens. But the move backfired when Republicans successfully sued to keep Williams on the Working Families ballot line, claiming the party didnt follow proper procedures to nominate a replacement. The party is appealing the case in court and Williams said he has no plans to run a campaign for Congress. The poll found Williams would receive 6% of the vote in a three-way race with Balter (42%) and Katko (40%). When voters were asked who they would support without Williams on the ballot, Balter led Katko, 45-42%. Levy said the difference is statistically insignificant. MORE ON THE 2020 ELECTION John Katko, Dana Balter agree to 3 debates before election for Congress Katko rebukes Trump for suggesting he might not accept election results Tired of TV ads for Congress? Central New Yorkers see more than anyone in nation Biden leads Trump among NY voters in new Siena poll Syracuses Howie Hawkins, shut out of presidential debate, protests in Cleveland Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Mark Weiner anytime by: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751 Virus Outbreak Trump (ASSOCIATED PRESS) The Trump administrations credibility crisis continues as the president is mocked for apparently signing a blank piece of paper with a marker in photos taken at Walter Reed military hospital, in a vain attempt to show him working while fighting coronavirus. On Saturday night, the White House released photos of Donald Trump appearing hard at work while in hospital, where he remained for a second night after a very concerning period. His daughter, Ivanka Trump, shared one of the photos on her Twitter, with the caption: Nothing can stop him from working for the American people. RELENTLESS! But Mr Trumps attempts to appear undefeated by Covid-19 were quickly picked apart by eagle-eyes commentators, who took to social media to accuse him of staging the photos. Jon Ostrower, editor-in-chief of aviation publication The Air Current, took a closer look at data embedded in the photos shared by the White House, and found they were taken just 10 minutes apart but showed the president working in two different places. "The photos released by the WH tonight of the president working at Walter Reed were taken 10 minutes apart at 5:25:39 pm and 5:35:40 pm ET Saturday, according to the EXIF data embedded in both AP wire postings that were shared by the White House this evening, he said. White House reporter Andrew Feinberg also examined the photos and upon zooming into one of them, found that Mr Trump appears to be signing his name to a blank sheet of paper. Many people responded to the photos with mockery, with the word staged trending on Twitter on Sunday morning. One person said: He was a reality TV star. As far as hes concerned, he just had to shoot a couple of promos for the look presidential bit he performs. ZOOM: @realDonaldTrump appears to be signing his name to a blank sheet of paper in this photo. pic.twitter.com/xlNX24CXn4 Andrew Feinberg (@AndrewFeinberg) October 4, 2020 Another said of him purportedly signing a blank sheet: Thats the only kind of work he knows how to do. And in his mind, as long as he makes it look like hes working and his base believes it, thats every bit as good, if not better, than actually doing something. Story continues Were living through the reality TV presidency. Some people were concerned about Mr Trumps lack of any sort of personal protective equipment (PPE) as he was photographed in different locations in the hospital while infected with a highly-contagious virus. Not a huge surprise that these photos are staged - and Im amused by those pointing out that if you zoom in hes just signing a blank sheet of paper - but its genuinely appalling that he still wont wear a mask, said historian Alex von Tunzelmann. I hope his vanity hasnt caused the photographer to be infected. he's sitting in a conference room I can only assume is going to be used by doctors, not wearing a mask. I'm sure the medical staff will appreciate being exposed to his infected breathing when they sit down to use this room. Cleodora Silvestri (@drakkenmensch) October 4, 2020 It comes as questions were raised around the authenticity of the video released by Mr Trump from the hospital on Saturday night, in which he sought to reassure Americans he would return to work in the White House soon. Several film editors pointed out a glitch in the video where the president appears to hiccup, but may have been an exit cut in the footage to edit out a cough. Speculation around the presidents true state of health since his diagnosis, as well as the timeline of his illness, has been thrown into question amid confusing and conflicting reports from him, his doctor and his chief of staff. On Saturday evening, White House chief of staff Mark Meadows said the presidents next 48 hours will be critical in terms of his care, adding: Were still not on a clear path to a full recovery. Read more Trump news - live: President says he went to hospital to 'share American people's suffering' amid conflicting health reports We love Trump: Impromptu rallies held across America in support of president Majority of Americans think Trump could have avoided coronavirus, poll says SNL skewers Trump for Supreme Court Covid superspreader event as Jim Carrey joins cast as Biden Was Trump's Walter Reed video message edited? There will be a major West End concert running across three nights later this year. With all profits going to Acting For Others and The Fleabag Support Fund, the concert will be a collection of cast performances from long-running shows. Those confirmed to perform include & Juliet, Come From Away, Dear Evan Hansen, Everybody's Talking About Jamie, Mamma Mia!, The Prince of Egypt, SIX, TINA The Musical and Wicked. Further productions and cast will be announced soon. The concert will be directed by Luke Sheppard and Anna Fox with set design by Soutra Gilmour, lighting design by Neil Austin and Howard Hudson, video design by Finn Ross and Fray Studio, sound design by Adam Fisher and musical supervision and conduction by Stephen Brooker. The concert is produced by Theatre Support Fund+ and Take Two Theatricals. Nimax Chief Executive Nica Burns said today, "We are delighted to be hosting these special concerts: The Show Must Go On Live! at the Palace Theatre where all profits will be going to theatre charities. It warms the heart to see all these fantastic West End shows coming together to benefit our community. A big thank you to everyone taking part on stage and off and a special shout out to the producers, The Theatre Support Fund+ and Take Two Theatricals for making it happen. Please rush to buy tickets and help out whilst enjoying a wonderful, socially distanced evening!" It will run on 13, 14 and 15 November 2020 at the Palace Theatre, with tickets on sale this week. by Card. Charles Bo For the archbishop of Yangon, the health crisis is a challenge for humanity. The coronavirus outbreak is worsening in the country, and the national healthcare system is in serious trouble. The Catholic community is helping the needy with food aid and preventive actions, whilst churches and seminaries have been offered as quarantine centres. The prelate calls for a cease-fire in conflict zones. Yangon (AsiaNews) Together with Malaysia, Myanmar has become the new hot spot of the coronavirus emergency. Yesterday 41 deaths were reported in the country, for a total of 412: a month ago there were seven. In Southeast Asia, only Indonesia and the Philippines fare worse. Overall, about 17,800 cases have been recorded in the former Burma. The country has one of the worst healthcare systems in the world. As Archbishop Card Charles Bo of Yangon notes, the local Church has contributed to helping the population. His address follows. Courtesy of the Salesian Bosco Link. Dear Friends, Benefactors and Well-wishers, I am sending this brief report of Myanmar Churchs response to the ravages of COVID. COVID has thrown a challenge to humanity. As the Pope constantly reminds us we are all together in this. We are grateful to the global solidarity emerging among people of the world. COVID was merciful to us till August second week, with just 400 cases and 10 deaths. From August 16, Myanmar has been gripped by a virulent surge of the virus. The country is desperately trying to flatten the spread. As of today, the virus is on an exponential spread with 15,000 people infected and around 400 dead. The country's health system is overwhelmed. During these challenges, Myanmar church has balanced safety with solidarity. In the first phase from March to August, the church responded with the following programs benefitting thousands: Preventive sensitization in the vulnerable areas, the supply of PPEs Food delivery to the starving population, support to most vulnerable groups The offer of our Major Seminary as a quarantine centre Advocacy for non-discrimination in service delivery, the ceasefire in conflict areas. The second phase hit us from August 16, forcing a strict lockdown impacting food and survival of thousands. The Church has responded with upscaling our response with the following plans: . Food security to the most affected, starting with the 1000 families for three months Motivating Christian community to support the poor feeding to at least 50 families in each parish Continued preventive support sensitization and supply of preventive pieces of equipment Offering church facilities for quarantine set up seminaries, if needed even churches Collaborating with the government in reaching out to the vulnerable communities National and global contingency fund raising. Continued Advocacy for peace, integrated approach among various stakeholders. Establishing the online pastoral presence and online Counseling Centre We continue to be grateful to our friends all over the world for your accompaniment with prayers and other supports. With Assurance of our Prayers, In Fellowship, Charles Cardinal Bo Homeowners risk being fined if more than 20 people gather on their properties on Halloween, NSW Police has said. Some streets in Sydney attract more than 1000 revellers on the night, often in tight queues at each house which would breach COVID-19 regulations. Trick or treaters in popular Willoughby street last year. Credit:Edwina Pickles "The community is reminded that outdoor gatherings should be limited to no more than 20 people, including children," a police spokesperson said. NSW Health is encouraging people to stay away from the popular "treat streets" and has asked would-be trick-or-treaters to keep Halloween celebrations in front yards, rather than at front doors. Photo: (Photo : 1662222 on Pixabay) After spending 149 days in the hospital, a long-suffering COVID-19 patient was finally discharged; he was under sedation for two months. Anil Patel, 63, is a resident of Chadwell Heath in northeast London. The father of two daughters tested positive for COVID-19 after he collapsed at his home last May. He was taken and admitted to King George Hospital in Ilford. He would then spend the next four months in intensive care, including two months under sedation. On Thursday, Patel was at last given a clean bill of health and discharged from the hospital so he can be reunited with his family. His wife, daughters, Aneeka, 28, and Nikeeta, 27, then took him to a residential rehabilitation center to stay until he completely recovers. Speaking to Daily Mail UK, he said he only recalls his daughter calling the ambulance. He said that after he was taken to the hospital, he does not remember what happened during the two months that he was at the intensive care. Video calling kept him busy While he was at the hospital, he would spend his time video calling. Being in contact with his family, three sisters, nieces, nephews, and friends is what kept him occupied. He said that 90 percent of the time, he would be on the phone while the rest of the time he would chat with the staff and other patients. While he still got to contact his family, it didn't feel the same as seeing his family in person. He did get to see them once when he was taken outside. He described that moment as very emotional. He found a family in the hospital staff He then described how at times, he would feel upset and take it out "on the wrong people" but would eventually apologize for it. However, all he could feel now is happiness and gratitude to the hospital staff that took care of him. "They saved my life," he said, "and have really looked after me." Last August, Patel celebrated his 63rd birthday in the hospital with the staff's help whom he said "made a fuss of him" by singing and even making him a huge birthday card. He looks at them as part of his family now - the doctors, nurses, even the cleaners know him. Everyone should wear a mask Now, after spending four months at the hospital, he has a serious message to everyone who defies health safety protocols. He said that he would not want anybody else to experience what he had experienced. He urges everyone to wear a face mask and take every precaution necessary to stay safe and healthy. He adds that he gets annoyed when he hears people are not doing what they should be doing. He said if only people would see how COVID-19 patients suffer, then maybe their minds will change. He is raring to go back home in time for his daughter's birthday celebration in November. "I've got a lovely family," he proudly declares, "and I just want to get home to them." Read next: France's Oldest Doctor Refuses to Retire So He Could Still Help Patients Amid Pandemic Dad Rides Daughter's Tiny Pink Bike to Raise Funds for Charity and Honor Grandfather Dying Mom's Live-Streamed Video Shows Hospital Staff Uttering Racist Slurs UPDATE: Inside the N.J. diner that defied coronavirus rules, became scene of fatal biker club fight A fight outside an Ocean County diner that led to a mans death was sparked by an argument over the victims friend being kicked out of a motorcycle club called the Wawa Crew, court documents show. Edward Chandler, 54, of Manalapan, is charged with aggravated manslaughter in the death of Robert Clarke, 78, of Whiting, after he punched Clarke during an argument outside the Lakeside Diner in Lacey Township last week, causing Clarke to fall, hit his head and later die. The incident began after Clarke arrived at the diner to eat with a female friend for a birthday celebration, according to an affidavit of probable cause filed by Lacey Township police. At the diner, Clarkes friend started an argument with the leaders of a motorcycle club called the Wawa Crew" over her being kicked out of the group, the affidavit says. The owner of the diner told those involved in the argument to leave the restaurant, and another verbal fight started in the diner parking lot, the court filing says. During the fight, Clarke was walking toward one of the leaders of the motorcycle club and Chandler told police he heard someone yell knife," so he punched Clarke in the face, according to the affidavit. (Chandler) admitted to striking the victim one time in the face and heard someone yell knife. He admitted that he did not see a knife when he struck Robert Clarke, the document said. Clarke was flown unconscious to Jersey Shore Medical Center and died about six hours later. A post-mortem examination of Clarke found his cause of death to be a close head injury secondary to fall and the manner of death to be homicide, the affidavit says. The diner where the assault occurred was cited numerous times in August for violating Gov. Phil Murphys executive order banning indoor dining. Chandlers detention hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Tuesday. He is being held in Ocean County Jail. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Avalon Zoppo may be reached at azoppo2@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AvalonZoppo. Two students at Temple University have been hospitalized after they plummeted 40 feet off a roof while taking selfies at a party. Police said the accident took place at around 2am on Saturday at an off-campus apartment in North Philadelphia where Temple students were drinking on the roof of the four-story building despite the school's ban on social gatherings. Two 19-year-old women, who have not been named publicly, were said to be posing for a selfie when they managed to slip through or over a railing and plummeted to an alleyway below. One of the women suffered leg and ankle injuries and the other is in critical but stable condition with injuries to multiple parts of her body, WPVI reported. Both women are expected to survive. Two Temple University students were hospitalized after they plummeted 40 feet off a roof while taking selfies at a party off-campus on Saturday night. Pictured: First responders load one of the women into an ambulance A group of distraught students are seen huddled together in the moments after the accident unfolded at an apartment building in North Philadelphia at around 2am Saturday The two 19-year-old women, who have not been identified, were said to be posing for a selfie when they managed to slip through or over a railing and plummeted to an alleyway below Temple student Allison Byrne told the outlet that she witnessed the moment the women fell but was too overcome with emotion to explain in more detail. 'I feel bad for my friend who was there and did see it and had a really rough night trying to deal with that emotionally,' Byrne said. The building's management company said it's rooftop deck is in compliance with safety regulations as it has a parapet wall and railings. However, students who have been up there before say they are not surprised that an accident like this could happen. 'There's not enough room blocking you from falling off, so if you're drinking and you run right into it, it's really easy to slip right off because it only comes to like a little halfway between your knee and hip,' Arnav Johri told WPVI. Temple student Allison Byrne told WPVI that she witnessed the moment the women fell but was too overcome with emotion to explain in more detail Students who have been up on the roof before say they are not surprised that an accident like this could happen. Pictured: The building on the 1800 block of North Bouvier Street Temple Police are investigating the incident with help from the Philadelphia Police Department. Neighbors said they hope the tragic accident serves as a wake-up call for students who have continued partying despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. 'We just hope that someone learns from their example not to be on the roof,' neighbor Ada Banks told WPVI. 'It happens all the time.' A similar accident took place just a few blocks from Saturday's in 2013 when 19-year-old Temple freshman Ali Fausnaught tripped and fell three stories to her death during a rooftop party. University officials banned social gatherings of all sizes in August due to an uptick in coronavirus cases among students. It is unclear whether the university with punish the students who attended Saturday night's rooftop party. For optimal browsing, we recommend Chrome, Firefox or Safari browsers. He continues to be the best COVID-19 patient in the world, with many saying he is handling the virus far better than anyone they have ever seen, including former President Barack Obama. (The fact that Obama has never tested positive for the coronavirus is just another sign of his weakness.) Wendy Katagi, left, and Isaac Brown of Stillwater Sciences, a consulting firm specializing in restoring rivers and flood plains, walk along the Los Angeles River flood channel. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) Biologists and engineers are setting the stage for an environmental recovery effort in downtown Los Angeles that could rival the return of the gray wolf, bald eagle and California condor. This time, the species teetering on the edge of extinction is the Southern California steelhead trout and the abused habitat is a 4.8-mile-long stretch of the L.A. River flood-control channel that most people only glimpse from a freeway. The brutal vista of concrete and treated urban runoff exists as an impenetrable barrier to ancestral spawning grounds in the San Gabriel Mountains for the estimated 400 federally endangered Southern California steelhead left on Earth. The Los Angeles River Fish Passage and Habitat Structures Design Plan, which is being championed by Mayor Eric Garcetti, aims to change all that with a carefully calibrated retrofit. On a hot and hazy morning recently, scientist Wendy Katagi gazed across a sheet of murky water strewn with trash and slick with algae near the confluence of the river and the Arroyo Seco. Were going to turn this place into a trout stream again, she said. Scientist Wendy Katagi in the Los Angeles River channel. "We're going to turn this place into a trout stream again," she said. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) Were going to roughen the bottom with pebbles and deepen the notch along the center of the channel by at least 2 feet, said Katagi, a senior manager at Stillwater Sciences, a consulting firm specializing in restoring rivers and flood plains. Some areas will be terraced, and boulders up to 5 feet in diameter will be anchored to create pools where steelhead can rest and bulk up during their migratory journeys. In one of natures most theatrical displays, southern steelhead, a species of salmon that grows up to 36 inches in length and 8 pounds, mature in the Pacific Ocean and return to local rivers to spawn again. Unlike salmon, which stop eating and die after spawning in their specific natal streams and rivers, steelhead can spawn multiple times in various streams throughout their region. A 2008 photograph of a steelhead trout in Mission Creek in Santa Barbara. Unlike salmon, which stop eating and die after spawning in their specific natal streams and rivers, steelhead can spawn multiple times in various streams throughout their region. (Mark Capelli) The modifications, combined with floodwaters in winter, would provide safe passage through downtown for steelhead that began their migratory journey in the brackish, mile-long soft-bottom mouth of the river in Long Beach, 20 miles to the south. Story continues The fish passage, designers say, will serve as a pilot for similar efforts along the roughly 50-mile channel, as well as the L.A. River watershed, which drains 834 square miles of land bounded by the San Gabriel, Santa Monica and Santa Susana mountain ranges. The flood-control channel is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and L.A. County Public Works engineers. Biologists and city officials hope to see the project completed before the start of the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. In an interview, Garcetti said: It has been a long time coming, but were going to welcome steelhead back home. Doing that will mean a restoration of nature literally down the very spine of this great city. The velocity of the water remains the crux of the problem for fish and for humans. The measure of safety provided by the non-erodible flood-control channel is a cornerstone of the regions economy. Biologists, engineers and Los Angeles city officials spend a morning in the L.A. River channel. "It has been a long time coming, but we're going to welcome steelhead back home," said Mayor Eric Garcetti. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) The L.A. River channel was designed exclusively to flush water to the ocean as quickly as possible and keep people dry, said Nathan Holste, a hydraulic engineer with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. It can contain a discharge of about 104,000 cubic feet per second during a 100-year flood event. Trouble is, even flows of 5 feet per second are above the cruising speed of steelhead trout, he said. So, our goals include controlling the flows and offering plenty of places for fish to rest. Steelhead swim upstream at an average speed of about 7 miles per day, he added. "We believe that steelhead will be able to reach the passage in about three days then swim through it without scraping their bellies on concrete. Re-creating self-sustaining native plant communities will need to take the physical peculiarities of the channel into account. For example, south of 1st Street, the east bank provides slightly more shade than the west bank because the channel there runs slightly southeast. In the meantime, there are myriad permitting hurdles to clear before altering the crucial flood-control system to assist steelhead without affecting adjacent freeway overpasses, historic bridges and levees, utility and fuel lines, and railroad tracks and trestles. That is, if theres a will and money. Design phases of the project are being funded by the California Wildlife Conservation Board under a Proposition 68 grant of $1.3 million. The city of Los Angeles, the nonprofits Council for Watershed Health, Friends of the Los Angeles River and Arroyo Seco Foundation, and other partners are providing in-kind services as matching funds. The estimated cost of the fish passage project has yet to be determined, but its designers say it will be in the tens of millions. The project would complement river restoration efforts proposed or underway throughout the L.A. River watershed. They include a long-awaited river revitalization project north of downtown approved by the Army Corps of Engineers. That project is still in the planning stages and estimated to cost $1.3 billion. Lower L.A. River projects are proposed in Bell, Cudahy, Downey, Long Beach and other communities. So why the focus on steelhead now? The Endangered Species Act requires the government to take action to prevent extinction of species listed as endangered. The Southern California steelhead was listed as federally endangered in 1997. Steelhead, which begin life as native rainbow trout, once packed local spawning pools. For still unknown reasons, some migrate to the ocean and become steelhead after undergoing physical changes that allow them to return to spawn in freshwater gravel beds. But the explosive growth of Los Angeles after the turn of the last century, followed by catastrophic flooding in 1914 and 1938, prompted civic leaders to transform the river channel into a concrete floodwater channel to protect the burgeoning flatlands. Much of the work began in 1938, a reclamation job of mammoth proportions designed to manage the rivers rambunctious hydrology. It included construction of check and debris dams to stabilize creeks flowing from the San Gabriel Mountains, and flood-control and storage basins such as the Hansen and Sepulveda dams. Today, the L.A. River is managed by one of the most extensive systems of controls for any river its size in the world. Nearly the entire river bottom was paved over, except a few spots where the water table was too high. But the engineering feats that straightened the river and keep it in place affected steelhead in a fundamental fashion. River flows of treated urban runoff were too shallow, rapid and devoid of vegetation and pools in which to rest during crucial periods when the fish shifts from fresh water to salt, or vice versa. Scientists say the southern steelhead population has plummeted from an estimated 36,000 to 46,000 adults to fewer than 400 scattered across coastal waters between San Luis Obispo and the Mexican border. The last one seen in the L.A. River was caught off a Glendale bridge in 1940 after that stretch of the river was paved for flood control. The fish that scientists know as Oncorhynchus mykiss a distant cousin of salmon still shows up in small numbers in places such as Ballona Creek, Malibu Creek, San Juan and Trabuco creeks, and three Ventura County rivers, scientists say. But even some optimists wonder: If the fish passage is built, will steelhead come? Holste, the federal hydraulic engineer, doubts that steelhead would be able to reach the passage without similar modifications installed along the other 16 miles of channel between it and the sea. But Mary Larson, coordinator of steelhead recovery at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, believes that under certain conditions, steelhead will use it. Construction of additional projects later would improve its viability, she said. After years of studying their behavior, I can tell you that these fish are extraordinarily resilient and do things we wouldnt think possible, Larson said. For instance, they can sense the precise path of least resistance to spawning grounds needed to continue their genetic lineage. Rosi Dagit, a senior biologist for the Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains, agreed. Building this fish passage would be a historic step toward saving steelhead, she said, and helping every other native aquatic species that no longer feels at home in the L.A. River. Among them are rare species that take refuge in remote sections of the watershed such as the Santa Ana sucker, arroyo chub, unarmored three-spine stickleback, speckled dace, red-legged frog, southwestern pond turtle and arroyo toad. Many cities around the world have revitalized rivers that had suffered from a disconnect between communities and their waterways. In South Korea, the Cheonggyecheon, which was covered for years, now meanders through the capital city of Seoul. The San Antonio River Walk is a popular network of city parks and walkways edging the San Antonio River one story beneath the streets of San Antonio. The San Diego River Park Foundation recovery effort was launched by concerned citizens in 2000 after the largest sewage spill in Californias history dumped 34 million gallons of untreated sewage into the 49-mile-long waterway. If all goes smoothly, said Michael Affeldt, LARiverWorks director in the mayors office, the fish passage project will put some natural heart and soul back into the L.A. River, too. The Council for Watershed Health has launched a webpage allowing people to keep up with the progress of the fish passage project and learn more about the ecological problems it aims to solve, said Andrea DellApa, project manager at the council. Awareness of the river as a natural resource and potential economic powerhouse began to grow in the 1980s when environmental groups pressured the county and Army Corps of Engineers. Ever since then, the waterway has been slowly transforming into a greenbelt of parks, trees and bike paths linking new development including apartments and breweries. In 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency deemed the river navigable and subject to the protections of the Clean Water Act. A year later, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permitted kayaking along a soft-bottom stretch about 17 miles north of downtown. The river has always been a catalyst for change that helped transform the sleepy village of Los Angeles into a metropolis of about 4 million people. The first settlers who arrived here in 1781 put down their roots along the Los Angeles River precisely because of the water that was available there. The principal source was the river's "narrows," a spot below the bluffs where the 110 Freeway now crosses the concrete channel near Elysian Park. There, near where the concrete ends north of downtown and the 11-mile soft-bottom portion begins, you can hear the rustle of leaves again. The cackle of ducks and warble of migrating birds blend with the din of railroads and freeway traffic and echo off the channels slanted concrete walls. Cottonwood saplings, sycamore trees and weeds sprout from the edges of the rivers perennial cargo of warm, green treated runoff that carries the odor of old socks. Beneath the ripples, a steady parade of leeches, algae, silt and trash floats downstream. The return of spawning steelhead populations in the area would trigger one of the most unlikely sport-fishing opportunities in modern history. But angling for steelhead would be out of the question until there are enough of them to warrant the lifting of their endangered species protections. For now, there are more pressing concerns. We have to be successful with the steelhead recovery effort, said Sandra Jacobson, director of the southwest region for the nonprofit California Trout, before it goes extinct. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Close-up of sign with logo on facade of the regional headquarters of ecommerce company Amazon in the Silicon Valley town of Sunnyvale, California, October 28, 2018. (Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images) Amazon today disclosed that a former employee has been arrested for committing fraud against the online retailer. The company says it reported Vu Anh Nguyen to the Federal Bureau of Investigation in July 2020 for falsely issuing refunds to himself and his associates for products ordered on Amazon.com. The U.S. Dept. of Justice on Friday brought charges against Nguyen for federal wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, according to court filings. Nguyen was previously employed with Amazon as a Selling Support Associate based in Tempe, Arizona. In this role, his job involved providing support for Amazon's third-party sellers and assisting in the creation and management of seller listings using a "Spoofer" account, which allow Amazon employees to view and edit third-party seller accounts. From these accounts, employees are able to manually authorize refunds for items ordered from third-party sellers, which is how the abuse occurred. In the criminal complaint, Nguyen is alleged to have committed wire fraud between November 2019 and February 2020 by using his employee access to falsely and fraudulently issue $96,508.13 in refunds to himself and others. These refunds were not requested by legitimate purchasers. During the course of this scheme, Nguyen used or caused the use of interstate wires, the filing states. The scheme involved approximately 318 unauthorized refunds for orders purchased through eight Amazon accounts belonging to Nguyen and others. These included refunds for high-value items, like computers and electronics, none of which were ever returned to Amazon. Nguyen also operated two third-party seller accounts, Bullsy and ItemsQuest, where refunds were issued to orders he was shipping to his own home or others to which he had access. Nguyen also ordered $222.04 worth of items sent to his home as a part of this scheme, the complaint alleges, then fraudulently authorized a concession refund for the items, allowing him to essentially keep the items without paying. Story continues In addition, on August 14, 2019, Nguyen committed identity theft related to the wire fraud activities by using the name and credit card information belonging to a third-party, the FBI says. This involved an order totaling just $47.80 for household items, like a drawer organizer and cabinet liners. Nguyen had originally been hired by Amazon on March 4, 2019. His employment was terminated on March 24, 2020 after he ignored repeated attempts by Amazon to reach him about the fraudulent activity the retailer had detected. Separately from the Amazon fraud case, Nguyen was the target of a Dept. of Justice/FBI investigation for a type of securities fraud known as "free-riding," which had resulted in losses of approximately $695,000 across eight brokerage firms, the complaint notes. On the SEC.gov website's post about the litigation release, however, those losses are said to have actually totaled more than $1 million. Amazon, in a press release issued today, notes that it has systems in place to mitigate misuse of its tools and to monitor and detect suspicious behavior. These systems had identified the suspicious refunds, prompting its investigation. Amazon then reported the case to the FBI. The retailer regularly pursues investigations and lawsuits aimed at tackling fraud across its platform. Recently, this included supporting wire fraud charges against four individuals who committed $19 million in a fraudulent invoicing scheme targeting Amazon's vendor system. It also this summer launched a counterfeit crimes unit to tackle the growing problem with counterfeit products sold on its marketplace, and helped stop multiple fraudulent affiliate marketing schemes. While many of the fraud schemes involved external parties, sometimes Amazon's own employees are involved. In September, the U.S. Dept. of Justice charged six people with bribing Amazon employees in exchange for restoring their banned products or services, an indictment alleges, for example. In the past, Amazon employees have also been arrested for merchandise theft. Amazon offered a brief statement on the new charges involving Nguyen. "We thank the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation for their swift work to hold this fraudster accountable," a spokesperson said. "There is no place for misconduct or fraud at Amazon. We hold our employees to a high bar, have systems in place to proactively prevent fraud, continue to monitor activity, and will pursue all measures to protect our store and hold bad actors accountable." U.S. v. Vu Anh Nguyen by TechCrunch on Scribd A group led by a UTC professor is asking the County Commission to remove a Confederate statue from the County Courthouse. Dr. Betsy Darken said, "The bust of Confederate General A. P. Stewart at the county courthouse is divisive and exclusive. We are presenting a petition to the Hamilton County Commission on Wednesday to relocate this bust. It belongs in a history museum, not in front of a court of law." She said the petition has been signed by more than 1,000 supporters (https://www.change.org/ MoveTheGeneral ). Dr. Darken said, "The supporters will provide the Commission with reasons to support this petition, ranging from the racist history of the statue to the disrespect it shows toward our Black soldiers who have risked their lives for our country. "This Confederate monument is offensive to many Americans, especially Black Americans, because it hearkens back to slavery and the Civil War, it is rooted in the prolonged Jim Crow era of white supremacy, lynchings, and segregation, and it reflects the continuing presence of racism, conscious or unconscious, in our own times. "As one Black American put it, 'Psychologically, (a Confederate monument) is perpetuating a system. Its saying, We still have the upper hand. "A document issued by the American Historical Association and endorsed by the Southern Historical Association states that Confederate monuments were intended 'to intimidate African Americans politically and isolate them from the mainstream of public life.' "We recognize that others see this Confederate monument differently. Some have ancestors who died in that long-ago war, which included soldiers who did not own slaves and were fighting to protect their land and their families. Some see the monument as the embodiment of Southern heritage. And some see it as a rallying point for white supremacy. The latter is hardly surprising, since the preservation of slavery was at the heart of the Confederacy. Southerners have much in our history to be proud of, but white supremacy is not something to take pride in. "Similarly, while Confederate General Stewarts life included many positive aspects, such as his service as one of the first commissioners for the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, he was first and foremost a general of the Confederate States of America. This is the tribute, the only tribute, that is inscribed below his bust. This is why his bust is in front of our courthouse. This is why it is time to retire this bust to a museum, where the whole story can be told. "The move to include Confederate veterans in establishing and building our national military park in the 1890s was made by two influential Union veterans. If Civil war veterans could reconcile only 25 years after the war was over, then the Hamilton County Commission can take a step now toward racial reconciliation, 50 years after the Civil Rights era." The County Commission on Oct. 4, 2017, considered a similar request and opted to leave the bust of General A.P. Stewart at the courthouse. The vote was 6-2 with Greg Beck and Warren Mackey voting no. In favor were Tim Boyd, Chester Bankston, Jim Fields, Joe Graham, Randy Fairbanks and Greg Martin. It has been on the south lawn of the courthouse since 1919. The General A.P. Stewart chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy requested in 1915 that it be placed there. General Stewart for many years was a Chattanooga resident and was a United States Commissioner for the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. This account of General Stewart is from Tennessee History Classroom: Alexander Peter Stewart was born on Oct. 2, 1821 in Rogersville, Tenn. in a home on present-day North Church Street. His parents were William and Elizabeth (Decherd) Stewart, who had recently located to Rogersville from Blountville where they purchased the downtown home for $300. The family was moderately wealthy and Alexander spent the first ten years of his life in the East Tennessee city and attended grammar school at McMinn Academy. His parents saw to a lot of his education in his formative years when it was discovered that young Alexander had a gift for mathematics. In 1831, the family sold their home for $600 and relocated to Winchester, Tenn. The family prospered in the middle Tennessee town and Elizabeth went on to give birth to eight more children. Alexander continued with his studies and, in 1838, his grades were such that he earned an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point. A.P. Stewart, as he was becoming known, excelled in the Academy and quickly proved his ability as a scholar in mathematics. He graduated 12th in a class of 56 in 1842. During his time at the Academy, A.P. Stewart roomed with future Generals John Pope, W.S. Rosecrans, James Longstreet, and Gustavus Smith. In addition, John Newton and William T. Sherman would also graduate with the class of 1842 making it one of the most influential classes in West Point history. Lt. A.P. Stewart was posted to his first assignment in Army Artillery, where he served one year before being recalled to West Point to work as an instructor of mathematics. The Tennessean held the position for three years and fulfilled his military obligation to America. In 1845, he resigned his commission from the United States Army and took a professorship in his native state at Cumberland University. That same year he married Harriet Byron Chase and soon after started a family. After four years, Stewart left his professorship and became a member of the faculty at the University of Nashville. He returned to Cumberland University in 1854 and remained there until the outbreak of the War Between the States. Stewart enjoyed scholarly pursuits and had been a voracious reader from his early childhood. The positions at the University allowed him to pursue his intellectual interests until war began looming over the South. His wife bore him four sons in the years he worked as a professor and he was a good father. He was, like most Tennesseans, against slavery and secession, but was an adamant believer in the states rights to decide such issues. Following Tennessee voting to secede from the Republic, Stewart volunteered his services to then-Governor Isham Harris. Gov. Harris assigned Stewart the rank of Major in the Tennessee Militia and gave him command of the heavy artillery and water batteries on the Mississippi River at Fort Wright at Randolph. Major Stewart organized and trained 20 batteries of Tennessee artillery at the fort. Stewarts "by the book" style quickly earned him the nickname "Old Straight" from his men, but his personal leadership also earned their respect. The mathematics professor proved himself under fire as a good tactician and old school military soldier. He and his men were able to push off Gen. U.S. Grants forces for a time in the futile battle. During the early action, Stewart was wounded when a cannon next to him exploded, burning his face with the ignited powder, but the wounds were only superficial. Major Stewarts actions under fire and his examples of leadership quickly earned the respect of then-commanding General Albert Sydney Johnston who soon recommended promoting Stewart to the rank of Brigadier General. Following the fall of Fort Donelson and Nashville, northern forces pushed south towards Pittsburg Landing.Gen. A.P. Stewart was ordered to march his Second Brigade north from Corinth, Miss. and meet the advancing Union troops. The Rogersville native arrived with his troops around midnight on April 4, 1862. Stewarts brigade, which was made up of the Fourth, Fifth, and Thirty-third Regiments of the Army of Tennessee, the thirteenth Regiment of Arkansas Volunteers, and a light artillery battery of six pieces. With Gen. A.S. Johnston commanding, Gen. Stewarts men engaged the Union forces at what would eventually become known as the Battle of Shiloh. The report he filed with Confederate headquarters praised the actions of his men and especially the actions of the Fourth Tennessee Regiment for relieving three other units pinned down by enemy fire and forcing the Union Army back towards the river. According to his report, Gen. Stewart received the order from Gen. Braxton Bragg to assault the battery position and rode back to locate a unit capable of attacking the enemy battery that was preventing the Confederate forces from advancing. Stewart went on to say: "...I turned to the Fourth; told them what was wanted and asked if they would take the battery, and received the reply Show us where it is; we will try. The regiment moved forward, under a severe fire of canister, from which it lost 31 men killed and 160 wounded, charged and carried the battery, and drove the enemy back into the thick woods beyond it. The entire regiment behaved admirably, and it gives me pleasure to bear testimony to their gallant conduct and especially that of Lt. Colonel Strahl and Colonel Neely..." Following the death of Gen. Johnston at Shiloh and the subsequent retreat of Southern forces from the battlefield, Gen. Stewart and his men fell back helping to cover the retreat and regrouped. As a commander, A.P. Stewart found himself becoming regarded as one of the better officers in the Army of Tennessee. His ability to demand the best from the soldiers under him was a rare thing as times became tough for Confederate soldiers. He wasnt below lending a hand helping his men get into position. Once while crossing a creek, a cannon being pulled by a horse became bogged down in the mud and couldnt be moved. Without thinking, Gen. Stewart threw his reins to an aide and waded out in the creek where he put his shoulder against the wheel and said "all together men" and pushed the wheels out of the trough and onto the bank. His modesty and shyness were just as legendary and he never put his needs above those of the men under him. His men proved themselves time and again at the battles of Perryville and Murfreesboro. At the Battle of Murfreesboro, the troops under Stewart picked up their nickname "the little giant division" for their actions in destroying Union Gen. Philip Sheridans stand on the right flank. Gen. Stewarts hardest fought actions on the battlefield, however, occurred in September 1863 while engaging the Union Army in Chattanooga and at the Battle of Chickamauga. Stewart ran headlong into trouble while checking his divisions lines prior to a crucial charge in the battle. Gen. Stewart accidentally rode his old roan horse through a yellow-jackets nest and was aggressively attacked by the insects. Although the incident dislodged him from the saddle, Stewart was not seriously hurt in the incident and immediately returned to action. The Battle of Chickamauga would prove to be one of his most expensive in terms of casualties. Stewarts men broke the Union line briefly on the first day of battle and helped lead the attack the second day that shattered the federal forces and sent them headlong into retreat from the battlefield. Gen. Stewart and his men advanced towards Chattanooga in Braggs disastrous attempt to take the city. The "little giant" division were placed along the left line and spread out too thin to have any real effect on the Union forces. Although Stewarts men performed well under fire, the division suffered a 52 percent casualty rate in the battle. Following Gen. Braggs order to withdraw, morale started becoming a problem in the ranks. Gen. Stewart regrouped his command, but the seemingly constant retreat from the Union towards Atlanta was slowly demoralizing the Army of Tennessee and the Rogersville native found it difficult to keep his mens spirits high. In May 1864, Army of Tennessee Commanding General Joseph Eggleston Johnston ordered Stewart and his men to engage Union General Joseph Hooker at New Hope Church, GA. As was his custom before a battle, Gen. Stewart rode along the front of his line talking to his men and giving them the before-battle pep talk. The Union rifle fire began to get heated around the front causing his son, Lt. R.C. Stewart, to call out: "Now, father, you know you promised mother that you would not expose yourself today." The quick-witted Tennesseans started laughing and passing the comment down the line. As the general rode past them, many repeated the remark to their beloved general. As the battle of New Hope Church began in earnest, Stewart noticed that Gen. Sherman had stretched his battle lines thin and was able to successfully pinpoint their weakness and order his men to pour their fire into the positions. It was no easy battle for the Tennessean. Stewart and his men came under devastating fire from Hookers battle-hardened corps. Although tired and frustrated, the Tennesseans under Gen. Stewart held their own and brutally fought off the Union soldiers devastating Hookers men and forcing Gen. Sherman to order Hooker to retreat. Gen. Johnston was so impressed with Stewarts turn-around from almost certain defeat that told him: "If I can make you a Lieutenant-General for your management, then you shall have it." The rank was delivered, as promised, a few weeks later while Stewart was directing his men in the building of breastworks.The promotion made him one of only two Tennesseans to earn the rank of Lt. General in the Confederate Army. At a battle near Ezra Church in Georgia, the Tennessean was scouting open ground between his line and the Unions when received his second wound in the war. A spent musket ball fired from a Union soldier struck him between the eyes and knocked him from his horse. His aide Aristide Hopkins carried him off of the battlefield and everyone seeing the wound thought "Old Straight" had finally pushed his luck too far. Much to everyones surprise, however, Gen. Stewart had only been knocked unconscious by the bullet. After coming to and shaking it off, he mounted his horse and resumed command of his corps. On July 17, 1864, a telegram from the Confederate War Office was received ordering Texas Gen. John B. Hood to take command of the Army of Tennessee replacing the popular Johnston. Confederate President Jefferson Davis, who personally disliked Johnston, ordered Gen. Hood to put the Army of Tennessee back into the war with offensive tactics. The Texans first order of business was locating the positions of Hardee and Stewart and establishing communications for the upcoming defense of Atlanta. There was some trouble from his new command. The Senior Corps Commander of the Army of Tennessee General Hardee echoed the anger being felt by the troops and thought the decision by President Davis was a way of replacing him as well. General Hardee almost tendered his resignation, but the junior Corps Commander Stewart convinced Hardee to remain in the interest of his men. Gen. Hoods early actions in command revitalized the Army of Tennessee and did put them back in the fight as a formidable force. From Atlanta to the Armys near destruction at the Battle of Franklin, Lt. Gen. A.P. Stewart garnered a reputation as one of the better commanders in the Army of Tennessee. He was cool-headed under fire and could inspire his men under the most adverse of conditions. In many cases, rallying them to complete their assignments in spite of overwhelming odds. Three horses were shot out from under him at the Battle of Resaca. Under Commanding Generals A.S. Johnston, Joseph Johnston, Bragg, and Hood, Stewart maintained their respect of his command style and also that of his subordinates. In a report filed by General John Hood, he wrote of his admiration for Stewart stating "he admired the Tennessean for his cheering of his command by riding among them before every battle, talking with and encouraging them toward the bloody work ahead." One of his officers also later wrote of his demeanor in battle and his regard for the soldiers under him saying: "As an example of the consideration for his men, I have seen him, when we were on the march and halted by the roadside to rest and he wished to pass through the line of tired men lying or sitting by the road, most politely ask the men to make room for him and his staff to get through and then ride through slowly and carefully least the horses trample some of the men..." As the war began coming to an end, Lt. Gen. A.P. Stewart found himself commanding the final remnants of the Army of Tennessee. In April 1865 at the Battle of Coes Farm in North Carolina, the Lt. General and other commanders surrendered the Army to Union General William T. Sherman making the Rogersville native the highest ranking Confederate Commander from East Tennessee to have served in the War Between the States. In later years he would comment on fellow West Point Classmate General Sherman saying that while he was an able student of the Academy, he was no gentleman. Since his first engagement four years earlier, Lt. Gen. A.P. Stewart had served in every campaign fought by the Confederate Army of Tennessee. A war-weary and tired Stewart was paroled in Greensboro, NC and returned to Lebanon, Tenn. where he took a professorship at Cumberland University. In this position, he rode out the tumultuous Reconstruction era and managed to reestablish himself in the academic world. In 1868, he was appointed professor of mathematics at the University of Mississippi at Oxford and quickly earned a reputation as one of the Universitys best professors. In 1874, he was elected President of the University and immediately set about making some much-needed reforms at the facility. As president, Stewart helped reestablish the University as one of the best in the South. In 1886, Stewart stepped down as President of the University and pursued other interests. Four years later, the U.S. Congress passed legislation that called for the formation of a National Park from the battlefields around Chattanooga and Chickamauga. The former Confederate general and Southern scholar was appointed as one of the commissioners to take charge of the work. A.P. Stewart returned to the woods and fields where he had led his men in the Confederacys last great victory. This time, however, he looked upon the region as a historian and worked diligently to ensure the battlefields collected were the most strategic positions of the battle and reflected the sacrifice of both the Confederate and Union soldiers who fought in the battle. In 1896, Chickamauga National Battlefield Park became the first of its kind in the United States and set the example for the others that followed. Stewarts popularity in the region soared. The United Daughters of the Confederacy named the Chattanooga Chapter in his honor. A.P. Stewart remained in that position and eventually moved to Biloxi, Miss. where he pursued literary interests until his death on Aug. 30, 1908. His body was removed from the City and sent to St. Louis, MO where he had lived with his son for a short while. The Tennessean was laid to rest amid ceremonies proper to a distinguished citizen and military officer. In 1918, the former Confederate General from Tennessee was memorialized by the Chattanooga U.D.C., who contracted noted Tennessee artist Belle Kinney to sculpt a bust of the Rogersville native. It was cast at the famous Tiffany Studios in New York and unveiled on April 22, 1919 in a ceremony held on Chattanoogas courthouse lawn. ********* No one figure has so slipped from the pages of Tennessee history as has Alexander P. Stewart. Information gathered for this story had to be gleaned from his personal reports, those of Gen. John B. Hood, Rogersville historians, and battlefield accounts from the War Between the States where his troops were engaged. I especially have to thank Carson-Newman English professor Doug Taylor, who is one of the few people that has researched the Rogersville native and frequently gives lectures on the forgotten Tennessean. Prior to the publication of this article, he informed me that a new book on Stewart written by Sam Davis Elliott has just been published and should be available from your local bookstore. Although a man of scholarly pursuits, A.P. Stewart never wrote a memoir of his life or experiences. He did later comment on the War Between the States when he wrote: "...I hold that the actions of the Southern people was legally, constitutionally and morally right. The Southern people were devoted to the Constitution and the laws of this country, and never violated either..." In addition, the modest quiet-spoken man gave a speech at a Convention of the Sons of Confederate Veterans where he spoke of the need to aid the forgotten veterans of the war and to provide for the proper education and training of their children. His words would memorialize him to the men who had served in his command during the war. Although a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy, A.P. Stewart was chiefly regarded by many as a scholar and little credit is given to his tactics on the battlefield. He was, as the story said, a man of the old military school. His knowledge of artillery aided him greatly in his battlefield command and reinforced an old saying of Emperor Napoleans "that he would have no man as a general who had not served in artillery." As mentioned in the story, he was only one of two native sons to achieve the rank of Lieutenant general. The only other Tennessean to achieve the rank was Confederate cavalry legend N.B. Forrest. At the time of his death on 1908, Former Lt. Gen. Simon Buckner was the only Confederate soldier living who had held the same rank in the War Between the States. While Stewarts work at the University of Mississippi is notable, his efforts in helping to establish the Chickamauga National Military Park is regarded as one of his best contributions. The states of Tennessee and Georgia gave $400,000 and the U.S. Government appropriated $725,000 to purchase the land, which would encompass 15 square miles and become the first such Park of its kind in U.S. History. The battlefield remains much as it did in 1863. The heavily forested woodlands were still intact because the battles rifle-fire imbedded in the trees made them hazardous to cut. This past weekend, more than 20,000 historical reenactors descended on the Park to reenact the Battle of Chickamauga. The mega-reenactment drew more than 100,000 spectators from around the world, including numerous domestic and foreign military students studying the tactics that were employed in the battle. No monument, except the bust erected by the Chattanooga United Daughters of the Confederacy, exists in Tennessee to honor Stewart. A Tennessee Historical Commission plaque marks his birthplace in Rogersville. A large womens residence hall on campus is named the A.P. Stewart Hall in his honor. The boardroom of the University of Mississippi once had a full-color oil portrait of him in Confederate uniform hanging on the wall, but no one at the University could confirm if the portrait is still there. New Delhi: In a major development over the weekend in Sushant Singh Rajput's death case, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) forensic department ruled out the 'murder' angle in the Bollywood star's death. The panel, in its report to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), called it a case of suicide, dismissing the claims of "poisoning and strangling". Now, when the report is out, the only question that arises here is - Was Sushant Singh Rajput's death case sensationalised for TRP? Since June 14, the day Sushant died, we have heard many stories and come across several social media posts in connection with the case, all mostly unverified. Were they made just for the sake of better TRP? It may be a case of abetment to suicide or Sushant might have been driven by the drugs gang to take this extreme step. However, after the AIIMS report, the section of the media which was claiming that it is a clear case of murder, is now keeping silent. Meanwhile, the Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh has stated that their investigation into Sushant's death was right since Day 1. However, fingers were pointed out at the department deliberately. The Mumbai Police had said that Sushant died by suicide and was probing the case since the beginning. However, after an FIR by his family in Patna, the case was transferred to the CBI. Now, since the report is out, will the 'theory gang' accept the truth behind Sushant Singh Rajput's death? Forty-eight members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from all the main political groups sent a letter to the HR/VP of the European Commission Josep Borrell, expressing their dismay over the military aggression of Azerbaijan against the native civilian population of Artsakh/Nagorno Karabakh. In particular the MEPs state: We, the undersigned Members of the European Parliament are appalled by and call the Azerbaijani army to immediately stop the aggression against the civilian population of Nagorno-Karabakh. The MEPs are calling on the head of the EU diplomacy to undertake meaningful actions against the Azerbaijani aggression and to help resolve the conflict. The letter to the EU HR/VP is initiative by MEP Loucas Fourlas (EPP, Cyprus). In the letter the MEPs elaborate that since 27.09.2020 the indigenous civilian population of Artsakh/Nagorno Karabakh has been under attack by the Azerbaijani armed forces, in gross violation of international humanitarian law and the logic of the Nagorno Karabakh peace process. They are calling on the EU HR Borrell to exercise high pressure to halt any interference by #Turkey, de facto destabilizing yet another neighboring region in the South Caucasus. The MEPs also stress the importance of the OSCE investigative mechanism for ceasefire violations. Unlike #Armenia, Azerbaijan has continuously rejected to install this mechanism which would enable to find out which side violates the ceasefire. Commenting on the initiative of the MEPs, the President of the European Armenian Federation for Justice and Democracy Kaspar Karampetian stated: Turkey and Azerbaijan have crossed the red line. Today the politicians in Europe have begun to understand what the Aliyev regime if capable of. Azerbaijan is now a country that is being associated with Islamic terrorism. The dictatorial tandem Aliyev-Erdogan is doomed to fail since it embodies hatred not only towards the Armenians across the globe but also because if embodies contempt towards human lives, including that of the citizens of their own countries. The EAFJD and our committees continue their active work of shedding light on the developments both vis-a-vis the European institutions and the EU Member states. 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Jackson misappropriated more than $100,000 from her union between 2003 and 2010, at a time she was leading an organisation that represents aged care workers, hospital cleaners and disability workers. She was national secretary from 2008 to 2015. Former Health Services Union national secretary Kathy Jackson has admitted to two fraud charges. Credit:Vince Caligiuri Once acclaimed as a whistleblower by the Abbott government for her role in highlighting corruption at the HSU's administrative level, Jackson now faces the ignominy of being the union's third high-profile former figure sentenced on criminal charges since 2014, following former colleagues Michael Williamson and Craig Thomson. However, Jackson could be spared a prison sentence, after County Court judge Mandy Fox indicated last week she would not impose a jail term on the remaining two charges. She will be sentenced on four counts in total. Facebook believes a government attempt to break up the social media giant from Instagram and Whatsapp would be a 'complete nonstarter' effort that would cost the company billions and defy established law. According to the Wall Street Journal, the 14-page document was drafted by Facebook staff based on work it commissioned from lawyers at Sidley Austin LLP. The newspaper reported that the document sheds light on how Facebook may defend itself if it is sued on antitrust grounds. Facebook, which acquired Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014, has been the target of sweeping antitrust investigations by the Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission. Amazon and Apple have also been targets of such investigations. A digital sign is seen at Facebook's headquarters in Menlo Park, California. The company has offered a preview of its defense against possible antitrust action According to the document, the company made big investments to boost growth on WhatsApp and Instagram and also share operations that are integrated. Facebook says that if the government tried to unwind those deals, it would be nearly impossible to achieve and force the company to spend billions to maintain separate systems. The maintenance of the separate systems would weaken security and bring harm to the user experience, Facebook claimed. 'A "breakup" of Facebook is thus a complete nonstarter,' the document reads. In 2012 emails published by the antitrust subcommittee over the summer, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said it would be difficult to compete with Instagram as the reason for buying the social media company. 'There are network effects around social products and a finite number of different social mechanics to invent,' Zuckerberg wrote in one email. 'Once someone wins at a specific mechanic, it's difficult for others to supplant them without doing something different.' Facebook says that if the government tried to unwind those deals, it would be nearly impossible to achieve and force the company to spend billions to maintain separate systems. The maintenance of the separate systems would weaken security, Facebook claimed In another message Zuckerberg wrote out the rationale for buying Instagram would be to 'neutralize a competitor,' before backtracking in a later email, according to the Journal. Last week, the US House of Representatives Judiciary Committee's antitrust subcommittee said it expects to release a much-anticipated report into antitrust allegations against Amazon, Facebook, Apple and Google as soon as Monday, according to a source with direct knowledge of the matter. The chief executives of all four companies testified before the panel in July. During the hearing, the four CEOs parried a range of accusations that they crippled smaller rivals in their quest for market share. Combined, the four companies have a market value of about $5trillion. The date of release of the report can still be moved, the source said. Meanwhile, the Senate Commerce Committee last week voted to compel testimony from the CEOs of Facebook, Google and Twitter as lawmakers opened a new front in the battle over hate speech, misinformation and perceived political bias on social media a month before the presidential election. The committee authorized subpoenas for Zuckerberg, Sundar Pichai of Google and Twitter's Jack Dorsey to force them to appear at a planned hearing if they do not agree to do so voluntarily. The executives' testimony is needed 'to reveal the extent of influence that their companies have over American speech during a critical time in our democratic process,' said Sen Roger Wicker, a Mississippi Republican who heads the committee. The committee's unanimous vote marked the start of a new bipartisan initiative against Big Tech companies, which have been under increasing scrutiny in Washington and from state attorneys general over issues of competition, consumer privacy and hate speech. Facebook, meanwhile, is expanding restrictions on political advertising, including new bans on messages claiming widespread voter fraud. The new prohibitions laid out in a blog post come days after President Donald Trump raised the prospect of mass fraud in the vote-by-mail process during a debate with Democratic rival Joe Biden. Jason Lata (pictured in mugshot) was arrested on Saturday for assault causing bodily injury A supporter of President Trump was arrested after he sucker-punched a protester in Texas for reportedly playing the song 'F*** Donald Trump.' The Denton Police Department announced on Saturday that Jason Lata, 44, of Flower Mound, was charged with assault causing bodily injury. Authorities obtained an arrest warrant for Lata after a 17-second clip that surfaced on social media showed him striking the victim, Dan Royce Schochler III, around 1pm. The incident happened outside a Buc-ees convenience store in Denton during a MAGA meet-up scheduled for 11.15am. The footage begins mid-confrontation with Lata, who is not wearing a face mask, screaming at Schochler to 'turn it off!' The song 'FDT' [F*** Donald Trump] by rappers YG and Nipsey Hussle is heard playing in the background as another Trump supporter tells the protesters 'you guys shouldn't even be here.' Jason Lata (center) was caught on cell phone footage assaulting Dan Royce Schochler III (right) on Saturday in Denton, Texas Schochler said he had to be taken to the hospital for treatment after he was punched by Lata (pictured) outside of Buc-ee's 'I'll f*** you up,' Lata tells Schochler before sending an unexpected punch to his face. 'Get up motherf*****!' After a few Trump supporters intervene, Lata is corralled away as Schochler remains on the ground. The presence of the song 'F*** Donald Trump' in the video was first pointed out by TMZ. Hours after the incident, Denton Police Chief Frank Dixon confirmed on Twitter that the department was aware of the assault and launched an investigation. By the time authorities arrived to the scene, Lata had fled the convenience store. A statement said that Schochler suffered an abrasion below his right eyebrow and suffered a broken tooth. Denton Police Chief Frank Dixon confirmed on Twitter that authorities were aware of the incident and had launched an investigation Dan Royce Schochler III confirmed it was him in the video and added that he went to the hospital after the incident Schochler later confirmed his injuries on Twitter, where he publicly identified himself as the victim in the video. 'Hi, yeah thats me, the one that got punched. Gonna be fine but had to go to the hospital,' he wrote. Schochler set up a GoFundMe on Saturday to raise money for his medical bills. He added that any money leftover would be donated to Dentons Food not Bombs and the Audre Lorde Project. 'I was assaulted for peacefully protesting and standing up for myself. Any help paying my medical bills would be greatly appreciated,' he wrote in an accompanying message. The fundraiser has so far raised $4,629 of its $5,000 goal in 16 hours. Lata was placed in the City of Denton Jail and had bail set at $15,000. A particularly 2020 debate takeaway: It is notable that we could hear what both candidates said. And the only time they were interrupted? That was by the moderator strongly enforcing the rules. Overall, decorum returned to the political debate stage on Saturday as Republican U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham and Democratic challenger Jamie Harrison faced off for the first time. The 60-minute debate focused on their records and their often-clashing ideas after the first presidential debate on Tuesday devolved into mostly crosstalk. Graham is a Republican from Seneca seeking his fourth term. Harrison is a former chairman of the South Carolina Democratic Party who lives in Columbia. Here is a closer look at what they said and did Saturday night, from themes of the evening to the big moments: Graham describes 'nightmare scenario' In his first minute of speaking time, Graham laid out what he thinks this race is really about: capitalism versus socialism, conservative judges versus liberal judges, and law and order versus chaos. Graham also continually brought up "liberal Democrats," calling the party "radical" and he said that those running the party today are "nuts." "This election is about taking me out" because he "stood up for Kavanaugh" during Kavanaugh's Supreme Court confirmation hearing and is now one of President Donald Trump's most vocal supporters, Graham said. "They hate me. This is not about Mr. Harrison." Related: Sen. Lindsey Graham drops F-bomb, claims anti-Trump bias More: SC is 'so red it is sunburned,' but Jaime Harrison might have a chance vs. Lindsey Graham And if Democrats "keep the House, take over the Senate and Biden is president, God help us all," he said. The Democratic Party's complete control is a "nightmare scenario," he said. Graham claimed the Democratic party would use that power to eliminate the electoral college and stack the court with liberal judges. 'If you want conservative judges, I'm your only bet in this race," he said. Story continues 'Well, Senator, how good is your word?' Harrison clearly had a strategy Saturday to question past Graham statements and pledges throughout his 25-year history in public office. Harrison noted that Graham is going back on his promise to not support a Supreme Court nominee this close to an election. 'Well, Senator, how good is your word when you made a promise to the American people even more, you made a promise to the folks of South Carolina that you wouldn't be doing what you are doing right now," Harrison said. Graham, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee, reiterated this weekend that he plans to move forward with a crucial confirmation hearing for Trump's U.S. Supreme Court justice nominee, Amy Coney Barrett. Graham said the president "has every right to do this." Harrison also claimed that the senator, when he was a congressman, said he would term-limit himself. "If you don't believe me, Google it," Harrison said. Graham had a simple response. "You can limit my term Nov. 3 if you like." The questions were so 2020. So was the scene Most queries were coronavirus-related questions, but others touched on topics from abortion to climate change and from police reform to negative advertising in political campaigns. Some questions were local, including ones about South Carolina infrastructure investment, historically Black colleges and universities, and tourism. Coronavirus also shaped the stage and the scene. The candidates' podiums stood 13 feet apart, and no spectators were allowed in the audience at Allen University. Harrison also said he brought the plexiglass barricade installed near his setup. That image yielded the first viral tweet of the night. Jaime Harrison brought his own plexiglas divider to his Senate debate with Lindsay Graham. #SCSen pic.twitter.com/MX15BaY5S2 Amy S. Rosenberg (@amysrosenberg) October 4, 2020 So, what did they say about the coronavirus? Graham called the virus "serious." But he also stressed that "we have to move on as a nation." He noted that vaccines should be "ready any month now, maybe sooner," and that drug therapies" are working. He said he is not going to "shut down" the nation. "This virus is going to pass," Graham said. Harrison instead said there had been "a failure in leadership" in addressing the pandemic, saying America needed a 50-state strategy. We failed to act," Harrison said. "The Senate failed to act. The White House failed to act. The governors failed to act. We need leaders who are going to step up and act. He said there was a need for a mask mandate, more testing in South Carolina and more federal benefits to those left unemployed due to the coronavirus. Graham said he believed some of the unemployed were refusing to go back to work because they were being paid more in benefits than they did on the job. They agreed more than once They both said climate change was real but that they didn't support the New Green Deal, a Democratic-led congressional resolution to fight climate change. They both said they don't want to defund police departments. They want to protect social security. And they both claimed they would reach across the aisle in the spirit of bipartisanship as South Carolina's senator. They both got personal Each relied upon a resume of resilience rooted in humble South Carolina. Harrison, 44, introduced himself as the son of a teenage mother who was raised by grandparents who had less than a high school education. He spoke of how he graduated from Yale and Georgetown Law. Later, he spoke of his great-aunt, who died due to the coronavirus in a nursing home. Graham, 65, also spoke about humble South Carolina roots. He brought up on a few occasions his family's businesses of a restaurant-bar-and-liquor store. He spoke about how when he was 21, his mother died of cancer, and after his father died 15 months later, Graham became the caretaker of his younger sister. That's not to say the debate didn't get a bit feisty there at the end The final moments of exchanges felt a bit more like clashing campaign advertisements than a debate. After Harrison brought up paying off his student loans, Graham asked why he couldn't pay this debt because of riches earned as a lobbyist, a point made in Graham campaign advertisements. Harrison countered in rebuttal. "You are worried about everybody's else paycheck other than your own," said Harrison, raising the issue that Graham voted for his own raises. Harrison also said he helps financially support his sons, wife and his mother. In the final 20 seconds, Graham started to explain how he supports his aunt and his niece. But moderator Judi Gaston cut him off. The debate, she said, was over. Then, she mentioned what was next. In-person absentee voting in South Carolina starts Monday. This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Lindsey Graham, Jamie Harrison debate: 7 key takeaways GREENFIELD A 41-year-old Acton man was killed in a crash Sunday when a vehicle crossed into his lane on Route 2. Mary Carey, spokeswoman for the Northwestern district attorneys office, said the crash was reported around 6 p.m. on the Route 2 bypass. A dog in the mans vehicle also died, she said. The mans name has not been released. The driver and a passenger in the other vehicle, which crossed the center line and into the westbound lane, were taken to a hospital with serious injuries. No charges or citations have been issued, Carey said. The crash is under investigation by the Greenfield Police Department and several state police units. MDHHS issues Emergency Order designed to protect the health and safety of all Michiganders Directive restricts gatherings, requires face coverings, limits bars and other venues FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Octobe 5, 2020 Contact: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112 LANSING, Mich. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Director Robert Gordon today issued an Emergency Order under MCL 333.2253 restricting gathering sizes, requiring face coverings in public spaces and places limitations on bars and other venues. The order follows the Michigan Supreme Court decision on Friday, Oct 2, that invalidated COVID-19 related executive orders. Todays order relies on authorities that were first enacted after the Spanish Flu of 1918, and that were not at issue in the Michigan Supreme Courts decision. "When it comes to fighting COVID-19, we are all in this together. We need Michiganders everywhere to do their part by wearing masks and practicing safe physical distancing so we can keep our schools and small businesses open and protect the brave men and women serving on the front lines of this crisis, said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The epidemic order that Director Gordon issued today is an important step to protect Michiganders across the state from the spread of COVID-19. Lets all mask up and stay safe. Under MCL 333.2253, if the MDHHS director determines that control of an epidemic is necessary to protect the public health, the director by emergency order may prohibit the gathering of people for any purpose and may establish procedures to be followed during the epidemic to insure continuation of essential public health services and enforcement of health laws. Gordon shares more about the reasoning behind the order in a recent column. Violations of this order are punishable by a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than six months or a fine of not more than $200, or both. Violations of this order are also punishable by a civil fine of fine of up to $1,000. Michigan was hit hard by COVID-19 early in the pandemic, said Gordon. Strict preventive measures and the cooperation of Michiganders drove those numbers down dramatically, greatly reducing the loss of life. As we head into flu season, this order is necessary to protect vulnerable individuals, ensure the health care system can provide care for all health issues, keep schools open, and maintain economic recovery. Todays orders largely reinstate, under the departments authority, three major aspects of prior emergency orders: Requirements to wear masks at indoor and outdoor gatherings: The order requires individuals to wear masks when in gatherings, defined as any occurrence where persons from multiple households are present in a shared space in a group of two or more, and requires businesses and government offices to enforce those requirements for gatherings on their premises. The order also requires the wearing of masks at schools, except for in Michigan Economic Recovery Council Region 6. Limitations on the size of gatherings: The order reinstates limitations on gathering sizes that mirror the requirements that Governor Whitmer had previously put in place. These include indoor gatherings of more than 10 and up to 500 people occurring at a non-residential venue are permitted within the following limits: In venues with fixed seating, limit attendance to 20% of normal capacity. However, gatherings up to 25% of normal capacity are permitted in Michigan Economic Recovery Council Region 6. In venues without fixed seating, limit attendance to 20 persons per 1,000 square feet in each occupied room. However, gatherings of up to 25 persons per 1,000 square feet are permitted in Michigan Economic Recovery Council Region 6. Non-residential outdoor gatherings of between 100 and 1,000 persons at venues with fixed seating are permitted at up to 30% of normal capacity and at 30 persons per 1,000 square feet at venues without fixed seating. Limitations on certain establishments: Although the order does not close bars, it requires them to close indoor common areas where people can congregate, dance or otherwise mingle. Indoor gatherings are prohibited anywhere alcoholic beverages are sold except for table services where parties are separated from one another by at least six feet. In addition, athletes training or practicing for or competing in an organized sport must wear a facial covering, except when swimming, or consistently maintain six feet of social distance. Pursuant to MCL 333.2235(1), local health departments are authorized to carry out and enforce the terms of this order. Law enforcement officers, as defined in the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards Act, 1965 Public Act 203, MCL 28.602(f), are deemed to be department representatives for purposes of enforcing this order, and are specifically authorized to investigate potential violations of this order. They may coordinate as necessary with the appropriate regulatory entity and enforce this order within their jurisdiction. This order is effective immediately and remains in effect through Friday, Oct. 30. Individuals with suggestions and concerns are invited to submit comments via email to COVID19@michigan.gov. Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. # # # Additional Statements from Local Elected Officials Rosalynn Bliss, Mayor, City of Grand Rapids: For the safety of everyone in our community, it is critically important that we all do our part to continue to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Wearing masks in public spaces and maintaining physical distance from others to ensure adequate space is available for social distancing is essential, said Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalyn Bliss. I support these requirements staying in place and urge all Grand Rapidians to continue to follow CDC guidelines. Dave Coulter, Oakland County Executive: The fundamental role of government is to keep the public safe. We know that we are still in the middle of a pandemic with a highly contagious virus. It is vital that we maintain the measures that are critical to limiting the spread of the virus and allowing businesses to stay open, schools to re-open and our hospitals to operate safely. I support the actions taken by the Governor throughout the pandemic and agree that our State and Local health departments have independent authority and must now use it to protect the health of all Michigan residents. Jim Carruthers, Mayor, City of Traverse City: Health professionals agree with the CDC guidelines that wearing a mask is an important step toward preventing the spread of COVID-1919. This is a health issue not a political battle and we should all be doing our part to protect one another. In Traverse City, we promote and strongly recommend all citizens where masks in public and practice social distancing. Its just the right thing to do. Mike Duggan, Mayor, City of Detroit: By now, no one should need a reminder of how real and how serious COVID is. Unfortunately, too many people are not following basic safety protocols on their own and putting others at serious risk. I am in complete support of the state's decision to issue a public health order requiring people to wear masks and socially distance and the city will enforce it. Warren C. Evans, Wayne County Executive: The orders and directives issued today make it clear how we can continue to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in a way that is consistent with Michigan law while meeting the safety needs of its residents, said Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans. We know social distancing and properly wearing a face mask are among the most effective ways to control the spread of COVID-19. The new orders will continue these life-saving public health measures. Our goal has been and continues to be providing the safest possible environment in which to live, learn, and work for our residents and visitors. Mary Hall-Rayford, Secretary, Macomb County Black Caucus: As Secretary of the Black Caucus of Macomb County, I can assure that anyone who wants to know that we definitely support Governor Whitmers efforts to continue a statewide mask mandate in order to save lives. Its extremely important especially here in Macomb County. Kevin Lancaster, Pastor, Macomb County Ministerial Alliance: I support the wearing of masks to promote public safely, not just for yourself but for the care of others. John Paul Marosy (center) of Bethlehem joins protesters outside the studios of PBS-39 as Sen. Pat Toomey holds a town-hall meeting in Bethlehem in August 2017, after months of public pressure from liberal opponents of President Donald Trump that the senator has been hiding from his constituents. Read more A group of protesters who demonstrated outside U.S. Sen. Pat Toomeys offices every single week for four years had planned to continue their pressure campaign if the Republican senator ran for Pennsylvania governor, as had been widely expected. The group, Tuesdays With Toomey, didnt plan what they would have done if he actually became the governor. Even that sentence," said Carolyn Stillwell, one of the organizers, "makes me a little sick to my stomach. READ MORE: Toomey announces he wont run for reelection or for Pennsylvania governor As of Monday, the senators most vehement, liberal opponents wont even have to entertain the idea. Toomey, the only statewide elected Republican in the commonwealth other than judges, announced that he will not seek reelection to the Senate and, in a surprise to the political world, that he wont run for governor, either. He said he made the announcement Monday to be candid with constituents and donors who called on an almost daily basis to offer support for reelection or a move toward Harrisburg. Once I made my decision, Toomey said during a news conference, I thought it was best to let people know. Tuesdays With Toomey isnt exactly taking credit for his decision but has its own analysis of why he is reentering private life. I think that seeing that his actions and policies were enough to make a group of constituents protest him every week for four years, and ongoing, made him see how another statewide campaign would go for him, Stillwell said. A nanny from West Philadelphia inadvertently started Tuesdays With Toomey a week after President Donald Trumps election in 2016. She posted in a progressive Facebook group that she would be standing outside Toomeys Philadelphia office which at the time was along John F. Kennedy Boulevard in the heart of Center City shortly after noon on a Tuesday to voice outrage over the beginning of a Trump presidency. READ MORE: How 1 angry Philly nanny started a statewide protest movement Seven women showed up and met with a member of Toomeys staff. Protests continued on Tuesdays, and the size of the group has ranged from a handful to hundreds. Their chief demand in those first few months was that the senator hold an in-person town hall meeting in Philadelphia, which he has not done. The movement grew to have a presence at field offices in Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Allentown and Wilkes-Barre. And although protesters still wanted an in-person town hall meeting, they also targeted his stances on health care, immigration, the Supreme Court, guns, the environment, tax reform, and other issues on which the mostly liberal activists disagreed with him. In February 2017, Philadelphia Police took 11 people into custody after they staged a sit-in at the Center City office. The demonstrators were cited for disorderly conduct and released. Toomeys office said in a statement after the arrests that the senator was in Washington at the time and staff were not available because they were in the process of moving his offices from Center City to Old City. Among those cited was Nikil Saval, a Philadelphia activist-turned-politician who in June toppled a three-term state senator in the Democratic primary. He said groups like Tuesdays With Toomey have power in their theater in this case that rejected a senator deeply committed to the most banal form of Reagan-ite orthodoxy. And so [they] come up with a name Tuesdays With Toomey, which is just silly in itself. Youre posing the absurdity of this, that this person feels no compulsion to respond to these people, he said. Then it just creates an occasion for all these people, otherwise despairing about what is happening, to come together. Members of Toomeys staff met with protesters in the initial weeks, and the senator in 2017 privately sat down with leaders of the group in Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, and Philadelphia. He also held tele-town hall meetings and took questions from social media live on television. Toomeys staff now sends representatives to gather cards and letters from the constituents each week who congregate outside his offices. This has gone on (and on, and on, and on) for nearly four years in the sun, rain, and snow. Stillwell, a 50-year-old graphic designer who lives in South Philly, said one photo encompasses their spirit: It shows protesters in Old City in a 2018 blizzard, snow accumulating on their shoulders. The only thing that shut them down was the coronavirus pandemic. The last in-person demonstration in Philadelphia was the second week of March. Since then, organizers on Tuesdays host virtual demonstrations with a different topic and call-to-action each week. READ MORE: They had a plan to beat Trump. It got blown up by coronavirus. What do Pennsylvania activists do now? Their movement has also inspired activists outside Pennsylvania. Stillwell said in wake of Toomeys decision, for example, activists reached out to see how they, too, could sustain weekly protests at the offices of Sen. Rob Portman (R., Ohio). The organizers recommend keeping protests fresh and positive, not just a group of angry people standing on a corner, Stillwell said. The leadership team, which rotates, picks varying topics and speakers. When the demonstrations were in-person, people dressed up in costumes, sang songs a version of Fly, Eagles, Fly called Lie, Toomey, Lie and traded articles of progressive victories across the country. And they say their work isnt done. Toomey has two more years left, and the protesters say theyll keep being a thorn in his side. Showing up makes a difference, Stillwell said. We will hold him accountable. As long as hes in office, we will be out there. The regime has overturned a decision to freeze the accounts of Saeb Nahas, after pressure for Tehran reports Baladi News. The regime reneged on a court ruling that imposed the preventive seizure of the funds of famous businessperson, Saeb Nahas, following Iranian intervention, in the first step of its kind taken by the Syrian regime. Pro-regime media sources confirmed that on Thursday, the Central Bank in Damascus, in a sudden move, asked all public and private banks to unfreeze the accounts belonging to Nahas and his two sons, Muhammad and Hadi, and well as the accounts of the companies they own. Last month, the Central Bank circulated to all banks a decision requiring an executive seizure of movable and immovable funds belonging to Nahas and his children, in addition to their company accounts. What is striking, however, is the rapid reversal of the decision, a first since the regime began its campaign, led by Asma al-Assad, against the likes of Nahas. Sources in Damascus revealed the Iranian regimes direct and strong interference in the Nahas issue, which the sources chalked up to the close relationship between the Damascene businessperson and Tehran, which dates back to the beginning of the Iran-Iraq war in late 70s. Saeb Shafiq Nahas, born in the Damascene neighborhood of al-Jura to a poor Shiite family, became involved in trade at a young age. His major success began when Hafez al-Assad became defense minister in the Baath government in 1966. Back then, Nahas was close with Hafezs brother, Rifaat al-Assad, and started handling the arms deals that the regime was securing for Tehran. 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. New Delhi: Indias homegrown e-commerce marketplace Flipkart is yet again ready to kick off its annual flagship event --Big Billion Days - which will commence from October 16. The 6 day event will see offers from a wide range of products such as mobile, TVs & Appliances, Electronics & Accessories, Fashion, Beauty, Food, Toys, Baby Care, Home & Kitchen, Furniture, Grocery and more. Flipkart consumers shopping during The Big Billion Days will be able to avail a 10% instant discount through their SBI Debit and Credit Cards. Furthermore, no-cost EMIs will be made available to consumers through offers from Bajaj Finserv EMI cars and other leading bank credit and debit cards. Flipkart has also partnered with Paytm to offer assured cashback to consumers paying through Paytm Wallet and Paytm UPI. Debit-card EMIs on select cards (with no minimum balance) and Flipkart Pay Later will bring credit access to consumers. Live TV Check out all the offers and discounts customers will get during the Big Billion Days sale State Bank of India will offer a 10% Instant Discount for its Debit and Credit Card users Flipkart Plus customers will also enjoy an Early Access on October 15 No Cost EMI with Bajaj Finserv EMI Cards, and leading bank credit & debit cards Assured cashback for consumers paying through Paytm Wallet and Paytm UPI Unique and never-before selection across top categories such as Mobiles, TVs, Appliances, Fashion, Beauty, Home & Kitchen, Furniture, Grocery, and more Lakhs of sellers, artisans, weavers, and handicraft makers from Flipkart Samarth to bring exciting offers 50,000 Kiranas onboarded to bring festive cheer to consumers across 850+ cities The Big Billion Days will begin from midnight of October 16, with an Early Access for Flipkart Plus consumers, and will run until October 21. This year, the sale-event will create over 70,000 direct and lakhs of indirect seasonal jobs as sellers, artisans, and brands gear up to fulfil consumer demand, Flipkart has said. The company has also expanded its Kirana onboarding program to include more than 50,000 Kiranas, who will in turn make last-mile deliveries to consumers in more than 850 cities. Through this initiative, e-commerce will become more personalized for consumers across the country while also creating additional income streams for its Kirana partners. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 13:29:06|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Insurance Association of China has published a 2019 social responsibility report, the first of its kind for the insurance sector. Last year, China's insurance industry raked in a total of 4.26 trillion yuan (about 625.5 billion U.S. dollars) in premium income, insuring an aggregate amount of 6,470 trillion yuan, according to the report. Meanwhile, compensation expenses for the industry totaled 1.29 trillion yuan in 2019, the report showed. In supporting regional integrated development, funds offered by the insurance sector for the Yangtze River Economic Belt and the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region had surpassed 600 billion yuan and 250 billion yuan by the end of last year, respectively. As of July 1, compensation expenses related to the COVID-19 epidemic had reached 516 million yuan, the report said. Enditem Three people were killed in Jefferson County traffic crashes over the weekend, including a man who was struck by a co-workers vehicle while cleaning up the interstate. The first deadly accident happened Friday afternoon on Interstate 22 in Graysville. According to the Jefferson County Coroners Office, 47-year-old Joseph Anthony Harris was killed about 3 p.m. on Interstate 22 at mile marker 87. Harris was an employee of a company contracted to clean debris from the interstate. Chief Deputy Coroner Bill Yates said Harris was struck by a coworkers vehicle during the cleaning process. No other details have yet been released. Harris, who lived in Birmingham, was pronounced dead on the scene at 3:15 p.m. The Alabama State Troopers are investigating. The second crash happened early Saturday in Birmingham. Killed were Michael Dalton Steadman, 21, and Jackson Louis Godfrey, 23. The wreck happened at 12:38 a.m. at Center Street and Fourth Avenue North. The two friends were traveling in a pickup truck that left the roadway and struck a utility pole, Yates said. Steadman and Godfrey were both pronounced dead on the scene at 12:55 a.m. Steadman, of Adamsville, was the driver. Godfrey, of Sumiton, was the passenger. Birmingham police are investigating. Multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae is a leading cause of life-threatening infections, including hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated pneumonia Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Biopharmaceutical Accelerator (CARB-X), based in the US, is awarding up to US$2.5 million to GangaGen Biotechnologies, headquartered in Bangalore, India, to develop novel antibacterial proteins, called klebicins, to treat pneumonia caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae, a difficult-to-treat bacteria belonging to the Enterobacterales family of Gram-negative pathogens. GangaGen will be eligible for an additional $8.1 million in funding from CARB-X if project milestones are met, subject to available funds. GangaGen is researching a highly innovative approach to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant K. pneumoniae, including the carbapenem-resistant and Extended-Spectrum -Lactamase (ESBL)-expressing strains of particular clinical concern, said Erin Duffy, R&D Chief of CARB-X, a global partnership led by Boston University dedicated to supporting the development of antibacterial products to diagnose, prevent and treat drug-resistant infections. The project is in the early stages of development and if successful, it could represent progress in the treatment of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. Tanjore S Balganesh, President of GangaGen Biotechnologies, said: We are delighted to receive CARB-Xs support to progress the klebicin programme. K. pneumoniae is a hard-to-treat pulmonary pathogen resistant to many of the current antibiotics. Additionally, hypervirulent strains of the pathogen are being isolated in many parts of the globe. GangaGen is developing klebicins, which are naturally occurring protein antibiotics, as precision agents to target K. pneumoniae. Klebicins novel mechanism of action enables specific killing of the target pathogen without impacting the microbiome. Klebicins have shown potent activity against K. pneumoniae in in vivo studies. The CARB-X award will support further discovery, protein engineering and development of potent klebicins for the treatment of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) caused by K. pneumoniae. Vivek Daniel Paul, GangaGens Principal Investigator said: The klebicin molecules have a novel mode of action and represent a unique opportunity to discover, design and develop novel antibacterials. We look forward to progressing these molecules. The President of Civil and Local Government Staff Association, Ghana(CLOGSAG), Dr Evans Dzikum, has asked workers to make a deliberate effort to invest part of their earnings in the voluntary Tier 3 pension scheme administered by private entities. He said that was the surest way to what he described as a happy old age as majority of workers under the present pension scheme would be entitled to only a quarter of their current incomes during retirement. Save towards pensions Launching a new pensions fund by Hedge Pensions Trust (HPT) on Tuesday, September 29 in Accra, Dr Dzikum stated that the although every worker retired with the hope of enjoying a good life, some got disappointed at the end of their working life because some employers failed to pay their workers contributions as expected. However, he explained that the introduction of the two new pension tiers, Tiers 2 and 3 had paved the way for employers and employees to contribute more for a better future. As per the Pension Act 2008 (Act 766), Ghana operates a three-tier pension scheme. Tier-1 is made up of a mandatory monthly contribution of 13.5 per cent of basic salary managed by the SSNIT. Tier-2 is a mandatory contribution of five per cent basic salary managed by a licensed fund manager while the Tier-3 is an optional contribution also managed by licensed private fund managers. Being voluntary, contributions to the Tier-3 scheme are up to the employee and employer to determine how much of the employees salary will be contributed to it. One of the benefits of investing in the Tier-3 pension scheme, Dr Dzikum explained, was that government will give tax relief on pension at retirement and also one can take his or her pension savings as a tax-free lump sum upon retirement. Now is the time to save into the fund to secure the future and have a better pension life," he added. The new fund Consequently, Mr Dzikum urged workers especially members of CLOGSAG to take advantage of the new pensions fund by Hedge Pensions Trust. Dubbed, 'Pempamsie,' the new fund is a voluntary retirement personal pension plan that provides enhanced secure retirement income for individuals. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hedge Pension Trust, Prof Emmanuel Asiamah, stated that the current Pensions Act provided workers with the opportunity to invest by making a monthly contribution of part of their income into the Pempamsie Fund over ten years to make pension enjoyable. "For instance, a monthly contribution of GH300 could fetch a worker GH61,727 or more for 10 years." He said the minimum age of entry was 15 years and a contributor could contribute to the voluntary fund for 10 years. The CEO explained that contributors could enjoy a lower tax deduction as provided by law and one could contribute all 16.5 per cent or part of available funds on basic salary. NPRA's position The Assistant Manager of Standards and Compliance at the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA), Mr Roland Avenyo-Addico, stated that as a regulator, the NPRA's objective was to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery and transparency in administering personal pension schemes such as Pempamsie Fund. To drive the scheme, he said the authority would continue to encourage trustees to leverage technology, including mobile money platforms to support the expansion of pension coverage into the informal sector. "This continuous technological advancement has radically changed how trustees conduct their businesses, transformed ways of engagement with contributors, and ultimately expanded the scope for financial inclusion," he added. Source: graphic.com.gh Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video EDWARDSVILLE Voters face a full ballot Nov. 3, with countywide races featuring a battle for control of the Madison County Board chairmanship. Incumbent Republican Kurt Prenzler is challenged by former Madison County Regional Superintendent of Schools Bob Daiber, a Democrat. Since taking over as chairman four years ago, Prenzler has had a contentious term, in part because Democrats who controlled the county board for more than a generation were suddenly the opposition and much more vocal than Republicans had been while in the minority. Daiber, who retired as regional superintendent in 2018, ran unsuccessfully for governor that year finishing fifth of six candidates, with current Gov. J.B. Pritzker winning handily. Prenzler, of Edwardsville, has been chairman since defeating incumbent Democrat Alan Dunstan in 2016. Prior to that Prenzler served one term as Madison County treasurer from 2010 to 2016. Prenzler has a bachelors degree in economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a law degree from the Illinois College of Law in Champaign. A certified public accountant, he and his wife have three children, 17, 19 and 21. Prenzler said he is seeking reelection to preserve and expand upon the accomplishments of this administration. He cited three specific issues: property taxes, animal control and keeping Madison County family- and business-friendly. We want Madison County to be a place where businesses and families can grow, he said. SIUE and our community colleges provide outstanding educational opportunities. My goal is that our county is family-friendly and business-friendly, so that our young people (my children and your children) have opportunities in Madison County to work and raise their families. He said the countys share of property taxes has dropped 22 percent in the past five years. Yes, county government consumes less than 8 percent of the typical tax bill, but I am trying to demonstrate that it is possible for government to reduce spending, he said. So often, when faced with a problem, government officials just turn to raising taxes. It takes hard work to limit taxes, and the taxpayers deserve to see that policy continue. He noted the county has gone from euthanizing two-thirds of cats and one-third of dogs brought in to being no-kill. During my administration, more than 4,500 dogs and cats have been adopted, he said. The key to this success was cooperating with local animal rescue groups. I encourage the public to support our local animal rescue groups. We want to expand our working cat programs. Prenzler said he has used his skills as a CPA and county treasurer to reduce taxes, expose and clean up major corruption, and make government more efficient and accountable. In 2006, I ran for county treasurer against Fred Bathon, Prenzler said. I blew the whistle on unethical tax sales. The scheme was complicated and the general public didnt understand it. My campaign reached to Democrat elected officials, but we were rebuffed, and my campaign called the FBI. I lost that election, and I ran again in 2010, and won. He said in 2012 the FBI began an investigation that eventually led to Bathon going to federal prison, but not before taxpayers lost $4 million. Prenzler also said in 2010, just two weeks before being sworn in as treasurer, he discovered an investment scheme from 2001 to 2010 that cost taxpayers millions in excessive commissions. The county was able to recover a $340,000 settlement. Before I was chairman, there were no time clocks, and county employees kept track of their own time, he said. We installed time clocks, as is common in the private sector. We standardized computer purchasing, and began a managed print services program. Efficiency saves taxpayers money. He said the most important issue is reducing the tax burden on people while maintaining and improving services. In 2016, before I was Chairman, I led 120 people to collect 10,000 signatures to put a tax cut referendum on the 2016 ballot, Prenzler said. It passed 4-1, and reduced the maximum general fund tax rate from $.25 to $.20 per $100 of assessed valuation. At my first opportunity, in 2017, I led the county board to reduce the county govt. tax levy by $1.8 million, and we kept it the same in 2018 and 2019. He said this year the countys general fund tax rate is $.163, and he has led the County Board to put another tax cut referendum on the ballot. He said COVID has been a challenge. The state closed businesses, and we could see that sales tax revenues would be lower, he said. My administration met with all departments and elected officials, urging them to tap the brakes (on spending). We now estimate our revenues will be $2.7 million less than expected, but as result of our tapping the brakes, we expect our spending this year to be $2.5 million under budget. He said the goal of the coming years budget is to not raise taxes, remain debt-free and not lay off personnel. Daiber, of Marine, also was Marine Township supervisor and farms. He was regional superintendent from 2007 to 2019, a Madison County Board member from 2002 to 2007, Marine Township supervisor from 2001 to the present and a Marine Village Trustee from 1997 to 2001. He has an associates degree from Belleville Area College, a bachelors degree in technology education, a masters in education from Eastern Illinois University and a doctoral degree in education from SIUE.Daiber is married and has two sons. Daiber said he is seeking the board chairmans seat to restore competent leadership to county government by ridding it of corrupt practices of the current administration. Madison County has been a great place to live, work, and raise a family, he said. I am a life-long resident of Madison County and worked my entire career in this county dedicating myself to the education of todays youth and serving in public office. I want to preserve the ideals of this county for future generations. He said he has great concern over what he calls scandals surrounding the current administration and criticized Prenzler for excessive litigation, mismanagement and poor judgment in political appointments and administrative hires. The county board chair should work with fellow board members to advance the region through education and training, job creation, infrastructure improvements, and social support for our communities, Daiber said. This office should not be used to reward political allies with high paying jobs. I promise the citizens of Madison County an ethical administration. My 40 years of service in public schools helped me develop a strong sense of the needs, wants, and goals of local families in Madison County, he said. I understand the frustrations of taxpayers because I am a landowner, farmer, and homeowner. As a county board member, he chaired the Planning & Development Committee during what he called the largest residential expansion in the past 50 years, and gained experience in business development and growth. He also stated he was president of the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendent of Schools from 2010-2012. My experience of working with legislators and members of congress will aid Madison County as I advocate for legislation and grants to help our communities, he said. Daiber said his roles as regional superintendent and with other agencies helped me develop a broad regional network that will aid Madison County as I advocate for pro-growth policies. My diverse background and common-sense approach to government will allow me to work in a bipartisan manner with county board members and community stakeholders to achieve results for our region, he said. The continuing increases in property taxes is an ongoing concern, he said. He has proposed a one-year freeze on property tax assessments and forming a bipartisan property tax committee. The plan also includes a call for legislation to amend the farmland assessment valuation process by placing limits on the percentage of increased assessed valuation on an annual basis. If elected, Daiber said he would begin by hiring a highly qualified county administrator that can manage the departments within the county government effectively and efficiently. The litigation Madison County is facing due to this administration hiring individuals who were political campaign associates has become very costly to taxpayers, he said. Daiber said he is prepared for Day 1 and his administration will be inclusive to reflect the demographics of Madison County. I will work to find common ground to bring Democratic and Republican members of the county board together to achieve bipartisan results for our resident, he said. Partisan politics should end with the election, and cooperation and compromise should begin. He also plans to establish a COVID-19 task force, ramp up employment and training, work for improvements for stormwater drainage and commit to improve community-based programs for social support networks to deal with mental health, drug abuse, and homelessness in our region. The head of NATO said Monday he expected Turkey -- a key ally of Azerbaijan -- to use its "considerable" influence to calm the conflict in the Armenian separatist region of Nagorno-Karabakh. "We are deeply concerned by the escalation of hostilities," Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on a visit to Ankara. "I expect Turkey to use its considerable influence to calm tensions." Search Keywords: Short link: Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 00:54:21|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close MGM Grand Hotel & Casino is pictured in Las Vegas, the United States, May 12, 2019. (Xinhua/Han Fang) Around three-fourths of the American hotels are prepared to lay off more staff members during the pandemic, if no further relief is issued by the government in time. NEW YORK, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- The hotel industry of the United States has seen a loss of 5 million jobs since February, as one of the results of the COVID-19 pandemic which has claimed nearly 210,000 lives in the country, according to the latest statistics. The hotel room occupancy rate in August in the United States stood at 48.6 percent, down by 31.7 percent over the same period last year, and the rate went further down to 48.5 percent during the second week of September, said STR, a private entity that provides data benchmarking, analytics and marketplace insights for global hospitality sectors. Meanwhile, according to Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI), only 38 percent of people in the United States plan to be on vacation within 2020, in comparison with 70 percent in a regular year. Around three-fourths of the American hotels are prepared to lay off more staff members during the pandemic, if no further relief is issued by the government in time, said ALHI. In accordance with the current occupancy rate and revenue level, two-thirds of the U.S. hotels can only sustain an uttermost period of six months in operation without new relief from the government, it added. STR's census database for year-end 2015 showed roughly 5 million hotel rooms in more than 52,000 properties in the United States. By Shahnaz Islam, TwoCircles.net A frenzied attack or bouts of insanity; rape is rape! Every 30 minutes one rape is committed in India. A woman or a child, they are all prey of this heinous crime. The rape cases are shooting up in numbers each day. Bruises and injuries only leave scars, not recoveries. The victims sooner or later are succumbed or marked as grime. Sympathies dont lie in its supreme constituents. Support TwoCircles The list of names flourishes each year Nirbhaya case in 2012, Aruna Ramchandra case in 2015, Asifa Bano in 2018, Priyanka Reddy in 2019, Manisha Valmiki in 2020 and whos next in 2021? Why is it stated that she was raped? Why not alleged he raped her? This brutality is not just an android game in contemporary society, the cruelty had been breathing since centuries ago. The social responses, the laws and sections are very tedious to heal the wounds of the victims. Justice is just a dream. According to a survey, 87 rape cases occurs every day, recorded in 2019, a 7.3 per cent increase in last year, and the victims are mostly in anguish. From 2018, 4.5 per cent rape cases ballooned up against children, were registered in 2019. Further, the government data reveals that of men in India, at least in their entire lives one out of 5 males are either groped or molested as a child or by the stronger men. Over 50 per cent of them are boys between the age of 5 and 15 only. Any good society is formed with peoples organization on uniting aspects and with their contributions towards universal human values.Unfortunately, we live in a society which mainly boasts over caste, creed, class, religion, language, gender, and most importantly influences of politics and power is supreme overall. One can calm oneself by acknowledging that every individual is not the same and these disgusting acts are committed by a few who are grounded in their different characteristics or individual behaviours. But how can one repeatedly slaughter humanity and that too with the complicity of the state from top to bottom? The Hathras incident from UP is an example in hand as to why is rape trending in India? Why the Rape Raj is not abolishing yet even after the harsh Constitutional amendment following the Nirbhaya incident in Delhi? We have to remember that rape has no caste, religion or identity. It is an act of hysteria, an act of madness against any sane society. Blaming only the government is always not wise. The crime committed by the member is from this very society that we all live in. The government is not a pessimist or mind reader of the culprits or the rapists what are their intentions or who they want to rape next. However, being complacent with the crimes or protecting the criminals like rapists and lynchers has been observed time and again from certain governments for their political interests. This is an additional bolt for all of us in India. Its not enough to call rape just a rape alone. The act of rape devours humanity and undermines faith in human beings. Human beings have constituted laws, unlike animals, for the guidance of citizens and to protect humanity from falling apart. Despite the harshness of these laws, an actual punishment falls less severe. Indifference and tolerance of sexual crimes are increasing. The agony and trauma the victim goes through is such that no brutality or punishment given to the rapist will justify. Rape does not cut or mark injuries on the intimate parts of the body of a victim but pierced into their psyche. Such wounds are often unseen but never washed off. No amount of guilt or worries will cure it. No functioning of NGOs or systems run by the government or the law-makers can bestow the pride of justice. If we are in our senses and understand ourselves then we have failed humanity. Its high time we wake up from slumber and educate our minds and thoughts. Instead of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, we should make our sons aware that raping a woman is raping the womb of every mother. Shahnaz Islam is an advocate at Gauhati High Court, a freelance writer and a poet. The Egyptian pyramids at Giza were nearly deserted when traveler Janet Moore arrived in August. (Janet Moore) Janet Moore of Long Beach has been in the travel business for years, organizing cultural trips through Distant Horizons, often for university and museum groups. But in August, Moore found herself on the consumer end of the trade, trying to visit her mother during the pandemic and hoping for a glimpse of the way forward for her industry. Moore's mother, 86, lives in Spain and usually visits Moore in Long Beach every summer. This year she was quarantined instead and feeling isolated, having recently moved from Madrid to Malaga. This is really hard on older people living alone, said Moore. So Moore started planning a trip, which taught her several lessons about the world of travel now. Janet Moore, a travel professional in Long Beach, visited Europe and northern Africa in August. (Janet Moore) At the time, Moore knew that California and U.S. health officials were discouraging nonessential travel (they still are). Moore also knew that Spain had tight restrictions on travelers arriving from the U.S. But Moore had a strategy. She decided to take COVID-19 tests and fly elsewhere first. Where? Turkey, Egypt and Serbia. All had lower COVID rates than the U.S. All were willing to receive travelers from the U.S. (although one did require a negative COVID test). And none posed problems for a traveler on her way to Spain. She paid for it all with miles. Besides seeing her mom, I really did want to see what it would be like to travel right now," Moore said. "Theres nobody really traveling as a tourist. On Aug. 15, Moore flew to Turkey by way of Munich, Germany, the first of 14 flight segments in about as many days. Before leaving, she'd taken a COVID test in Long Beach so she could present its negative result as she entered Egypt. At every step, Moore said, she filled out all required paperwork and told the full truth about where she had been and where she was going. (Anybody considering travel abroad needs to look closely at web pages of the U.S. State Department and their intended destinations. Rules are changing often.) Here are six things Moore learned. Story continues 1. Not everybody is arguing about masks Moore, who rides a bike regularly between her Long Beach home and nearby office, has written letters to City Hall complaining about how few masks she sees. Through this four-country trip, I never saw or encountered anybody refusing to wear a mask, she said. In restaurants, hotels, museums and other public settings, there were announcements everywhere that you had to wear a mask while not eating. 2. The pyramids are lonely Egyptian signs for tourists give pandemic health instructions. (Janet Moore) In Egypt, there were no cruises on the Nile between Aswan and Luxor. But so long as Moore had her temperature taken first, many of Cairo's museums and restaurants were open. And when she reached the pyramids at Giza about 9 a.m. one day, they were all but empty. In normal times, Giza is some of the most heavily trodden ground in northern Africa. But on this morning I was the only human being in the entire pyramid complex except for security and the guys with the camels. No other tourists. Similarly, at the Cairo Egyptian Museum, room after room was empty. The only place where I saw some people was the Tutankhamen room, she said. 3. In flight, the first shall come last Many international airlines, including Lufthansa, Egyptair, Turkish Airlines and Iberia, are now boarding plane passengers from the back row forward, which aids in social distancing but is a reversal of the tradition (still common in the U.S.) under which first-class passengers board first. Every airline I took on this trip did it like that. If you were in first class, you had to board at the end, Moore said. Another thing about those planes? They tend to leave on time and arrive a little early. Everything is faster because theres less demand on services," Moore said. "I dont think I saw a flight that was more than 60% full. The flight from L.A. to Munich was probably 15-20% full. Still, Moore traveled light. Egyptair and Turkish airlines said on their websites they didnt want people using overhead luggage space, and they tightened their usual limits on hand luggage. So Moore traveled with a single piece of luggage that would fit under a seat. As it turned out, neither carrier enforced the rule. Another lesson she learned as she roamed terminals between flights: You cannot buy newspapers at airports anymore. 4. New hotel standards are circling the world In European hotels, as in many U.S. hotels now, check-in desks feature plexiglass screens, and the usual policy is that housekeepers dont service your room until after youve spent at least two nights there, Moore said. Many guest rooms have disposable plastic cups instead of glass, with no magazines or brochures. Also, elevator limits are common. At the Marriott Mena House Hotel in Cairo, elevators were limited to two guests at a time. All dining was outdoors. Some hotels banned indoor dining; others allowed it. 5. In ancient places, new habits prevail The Old City of Istanbul goes back many centuries. But modern precautions have taken hold, Moore said. Before she entered mosques there, her temperature was taken. Inside, marks on the floor indicated where worshipers and visitors could stand or kneel to remain safely distant. Also, many Europeans are known for keeping late hours, but the pandemic has changed that. In Spain, Reuters reported in August, bars and restaurants were required to close by 1 a.m. In Serbia's Belgrade and Novi Sad, Moore found that pandemic rules required that indoor dining stop at 9 p.m., outdoor dining at 11 p.m. For anyone familiar with Belgrade, Moore said, "it was very strange to see Republic Square empty after 11. 6. Sometimes you do more than the minimum The trips last leg the visit with her mother began with a flight from Belgrade to Frankfurt, Germany, then on to Malaga. But before leaving Serbia, Moore took another COVID test (about $60; results in less than 24 hours). "It wasn't a requirement, but I kind of couldn't believe it wasn't," Moore said. "So I did it for myself and my mother, because I wanted to make sure I didn't have it." She spent three days with mum, who she said is now happier and healthy. Since then, Spain has suffered a surge of COVID cases and stiffened its pandemic restrictions. The U.S. Embassy in Spain warns that American citizens "cannot enter Spain unless they meet very specific requirements or have already obtained special permission from the Government of Spain." By the end of August, Moore was back in California. Four days after her return, Moore said, she took another COVID test: negative again. The travel industry is doing what they can, " Moore said. "People are very conscious of doing all they can to mitigate the chances of transmission." Despite the horrors of the pandemic, Moore said, she's expecting "wonderful" opportunities for seasoned, careful travelers in the year ahead. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Agriculturalists in Washington are on the hunt for a nest of murder hornets after evidence that the huge insects were found in a city in Washington State last week. Officials with the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) confirmed on Friday that six of the Asian giant hornets, otherwise known as murder hornets, had been discovered in Blaine, Washington, suggesting a nest had developed nearby. "We believe, of course, we're dealing with a nest and we will be watching that particular area pretty close," Sven Spichiger said at a news conference on Friday. "We do hope to have this nest located within a couple of weeks, at the latest, and be talking to you about how we successfully eradicated a nest in the coming weeks." The insect is the worlds largest species of hornet with a body length of about two inches. Its deadly sounding nickname was created in response to the hornets potentially fatal sting and its aggressive group attacks, particularly against bees. Mr Spichiger warned that the hornets are entering their slaughter phase at this time of year, making the discovery and removal of the nest a matter of urgency. Asian giant hornet attacks and destroys honeybee hives. A few hornets can destroy a hive in a matter of hours. The hornets enter a slaughter phase where they kill bees by decapitating them," the WSDA says. They then defend the hive as their own, taking the brood to feed their own young. They also attack other insects but are not known to destroy entire populations of those insects. The hornet species is mainly found in China, Japan, Thailand, South Korea and Vietnam and was first documented in Washington late last year. It is responsible for an estimated 30 to 50 deaths per year in Japan, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. However, the murder hornet is considered to be a much greater threat to the bee population than it is to humans. The agency shared photos last week of the captured hornets on Facebook, displaying them next to a yellow jacket to illustrate a size comparison. Another photo showed one of the hornets attacking a wasp nest. A scientist in the state managed to trap one Asian giant hornet near Blaine in recent days and officials tried to glue a radio tag to it so they could follow the hornet back to its nest, but they failed, Mr Spichiger, a department entomologist, said. It may be a very daunting task to find the exact location, he said. But, you know, thats what were all prepared for, and looking forward to, finding that nest and taking it out. He encouraged people continue to report any sightings of the hornets so they can continue their work in trying to locate the nest. Fifteen of the hornets have been found since they were first seen in Washington in 2019, the agriculture department said. Additional reporting by the Associated Press American-Israeli yeshiva student Eli Rozenberg officially dominates Israels national carrier El Al. On Oct. 3, the Government Companies Authority granted him a permit to control the airline, rejecting earlier claims by El Als board of directors that Rozenberg was acting as a dummy shareholder for his father, American businessman Kenny Rozenberg. The crisis had hit El Al hard. The company was grounded for weeks, suffering colossal loses and laying off many of its workers. In March, the company warned of imminent collapse if the government didnt step in. Since then, the company and the government negotiated a bailout deal to save it from bankruptcy. The agreement reached on July 6 stipulated that the government would guarantee loans up to $250 million, while El Al would raise an additional $150 million by selling shares. The bailout deal guaranteed that if no offers were made to invest in the company, the state would step in, meaning El Al could be nationalized. Businessmen Meir Gurvitz and David Sapir each expressed interest in purchasing the airline, but dropped their offers over the conditions set up by the Finance Ministry. Gurvitz and Sapir left 27-year-old Eli Rozenberg the sole bidder. Rozenberg made his bid via his newly minted company Kanfei Nesharim ("Eagle's Wings" in Hebrew) Aviation. On Sept. 16, Kanfei Nesharim purchased 42.88% of the carrier for about $100 million, making Rozenberg El Als controlling shareholder. El Al's directors did not take the purchase well. Israeli regulations stipulate that the holder of the controlling share of El Al must be of Israeli citizenship. The directors suspected that the real buyer was the father, the owner of a nursing home business based in New York. Unlike his son, Kenny Rozenberg is not an Israeli citizen, so unable to make the purchase. El Al were also concerned over Rozenbergs lack of experience in any business, much less in the airline, aviation or tourism industries. Rozenberg had apparently anticipated these apprehensions. On Sept. 6, 10 days before making his bid, his company recruited as adviser former US envoy to the Middle East Jason Greenblatt, who tweeted, "El Al: What a history, what a future! Israel needs a national carrier that can show its best side and get people to and from Israel with the level of service, style and sophistication that a powerful country like Israel deserves." El Al is not the only Israeli carrier in turmoil over the current economic crisis. Israir Airlines is also looking for investments to keep the company afloat after suffering major loses. Yesterday, Israel's discount-supermarket mogul Rami Levy together with businessman Shalom Haim submitted a 70 million-shekel ($20.4 million) bid to purchase the airline. Much like Rozenberg, Levy has no prior investment or business experience in the airline industry. But Levys bid is unlikely to be accepted. Reports say it's quite low, and the current owner might prefer to wait for the lockdown to pass to reassess the companys situation and future. President Trumps coronavirus diagnosis and subsequent hospitalization has cast a shadow on ongoing negotiations over a second COVID relief measure. Talks over the package including direct payments to U.S. households are continuing, however. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin are continuing talks over a funding package even as President Trump tweeted his support from the hospital. OUR GREAT USA WANTS & NEEDS STIMULUS. WORK TOGETHER AND GET IT DONE. Thank you! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 3, 2020 Pelosi said Trumps COVID diagnosis could impact the ongoing relief talks. This kind of changes the dynamic because here they see the reality of what we have been saying all along, Pelosi said. This is a vicious virus. Pelosi and Mnuchin are reportedly as much as $600 billion apart on a deal, with Democrats backing a $2.2 trillion COVID relief bill vs. the Republican proposal for $1.6 trillion. Both of the packages include direct payments similar to those distributed in March in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic. The amounts would be similar, too, with up to $1,200 for individuals and $2,400 for married couples with $500 for dependents. A boost to unemployment payments are included in each package as well, though Democrats want to see $600 a week in jobless benefits while the GOP measure offers $400 per week. Second stimulus check: How much would you receive under new HEROES Act bill? The House bill also includes money for schools, airlines, expanded coronavirus testing, the restaurant industry and small businesses, something Republicans have agreed to on principle even if both sides differ on the amounts. The House passed Pelosis bill last week but its expected to die in the Senate, where lawmakers are gearing up for the brutal fight over the confirmation of Trump Supreme Court pick Amy Coney Barrett. Also in question is how the presidents health will impact the talks. Trumps physicians said the 74-year-old president could be discharged from the hospital as early as Monday. Whether the president is in the hospital or not, both houses of Congress are reaching point of no-return when it comes to time before the Nov. 3 presidential election. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has suspended Senate votes until Oct. 19 but said he would call Senators back if new coronavirus relief legislation is introduced in the next two weeks. The House is in recess but Pelosi said they could be brought back any time to vote if the two sides reach a compromise. CNET has compiled an estimated timelines of when coronavirus relief payments could be distributed if a measure is passed. You can go here to see the estimates. LONDON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- While some governments sought to reduce expenditure to tackle the economic impact of COVID-19, the Commonwealth of Dominica increased its social safety nets. During an online broadcast on October 4th, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit explained how these measures paid off. He notes that maintaining employment was key both for the economy and citizens' livelihoods. Throughout the lockdown, the 72,000-people Caribbean island maintained the National Employment Programme (NEP), costing the government EC$3.7 million per month. The scheme helps young people secure internships and jobs, advance their skills, increase human capacity, benefit local communities, and support long-term economic growth. Revenues from Dominica's successful Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme fund the NEP. "We have ramped up our social safety net programmes that ensure that the existing ones are sustained," PM Skerrit said on Sunday. "One of the critical points is the maintenance of employment. Usually, in this period, governments all over the world would want to see how they can go about reducing expenditure, and you would first start with non-legal obligations. If you have public officers who are not appointed or were on a temporary basis, it is easy to send them home as a means of reducing the wage bill. But my view on that way of government is that we have to try in this period to maintain the dignity of every individual and, as far as practical and possible, to allow people to take home a wage, to be able to have food on the table for their families." "We've maintained employment levels," the Prime Minister noted. "We also maintained the NEP; the NEP is about 3.7 million dollars every month. We could have easily taken a Cabinet decision and cancelled this altogether and saved us 3.7 million every month. But we also understand how important the NEP is to those who are in the Programme, but also the benefit to the economy of Dominica." A 2019 report from PricewaterhouseCoopers suggests that, since the launch of the NEP in 2013, the government increased its investment into the scheme nearly twelvefold. CBI contributions so far financially supported 3,896 interns and 4,500 businesses. Employment is one of many areas Dominica's Citizenship by Investment Programme funds. A key economic pillar, Dominica's Programme stands as the best in the world, according to the past four annual editions of the CBI Index, issued by PWM a publication from the Financial Times. Dominica achieved this by focusing on streamlining its processes and maximising its due diligence checks, allowing only thoroughly vetted investors to obtain its valuable citizenship. Once approved-in-principle, investors can either contribute US$100,000 or more to a government fund, or buy into pre-approved hotels and resorts, starting at US$200,000. Recently, Dominica expanded the definition of CBI dependants, allowing more family members to qualify for citizenship, including post-application. [email protected] www.csglobalpartners.com SOURCE CS Global Partners Related Links http://www.csglobalpartners.com New Delhi: Air Force Chief RKS Bhadoria has come out with a big statement amid continued tension along the Ladakh border. The AIF chief has said that India is fully prepared for the war on both the fronts in North India. India is alert in every way to the tense situation between China and Pakistan. Air Force chief Bhadoria said that the arrival of rafale fighter aircraft has enhanced the strength of the Air Force and will strengthen us further. This will enable us to take quick and strong action. He said that in the next five years, many other powerful weapons including Tejas, combat helicopters, trainer aircraft will enhance the strength of the Air Force. The AIF chief said the Air Force is fully prepared for the war together on both the fronts with India and China. He said that since the Chinese activity was detected in May itself, action was taken from the Indian Army and air force. He said there is an Air Force alert on the Eastern Front and there is no question that China is in a better position than us. He said that over time, the Air Force has made very rapid changes and now the gaps have been removed to a great extent. Also Read: Agriculture Laws: Rahul Gandhi attacks Centre, says "These policies are only to benefit some friends" Did BJP MP Rajveer Singh really reach jail to meet Hathras accused? Mayawati slams Yogi Government over their stand in Hathras gang rape case Farm Law: Farmers reach Chowpal while running tractor Naqvi, targets Congress Trump and Bidens first debate was more of a smackdown on our eyes, ears and souls, Sept. 30 Survival in tough times sometimes requires the inclusion of laughter; the Stars Vinay Menon provides this today. Menon says just when he thought he could not think less of U.S. President Donald Trump, the denial debate happened and Trump fell lower than thought possible. Indeed. After the shock of seeing bully-boy Trump break all the rules, maintain his racist profile, and have no control over his anger and constant lying, one had to just laugh at him and applaud Joe Biden for surviving the attempted massacre. Vinay proposes some humorous options for the next debate. Treat the bad reality show POTUS with TV tricks. When he lies, flash a giant X on the screen and play the incorrect buzzer. When he interrupts Biden cut his mike and lighting. When he strays off topic, bang a gong Thanks Vinay, for a moment of laughter. Lets hope that laughter and joy greet us on Nov. 3. HUDSON VALLEY, NY New York state officials on Monday began aggressive enforcement of pandemic protocols in the hot spots where the coronavirus rate is far higher than the state average. That includes ZIP codes in Orange and Rockland counties which have by far the highest positive rates in the state as well as in Brooklyn and Queens. In a news conference Sunday, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said the top 20 hot spots, home to 6.7 percent of the state's population, had a combined positive rate of 4.8 percent compared to 0.9 for the rest of the state. As of Friday, Rockland County reported 1,072 active coronavirus cases (confirmed positive tests within the past 14 days), a massive spike from 272 as of Sept. 16. Orange County, where a 27.6 percent positive rate was reported in its hot spot ZIP code Friday, 48 people were hospitalized with either confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19. The high rate of positive test results is in the ultra-Orthodox Jewish communities in Orange, Rockland, Brooklyn and Queens. Cuomo threatened to close any school where testing has not been done and reported to the state. "I'm concerned about the lack of testing in the schools," Cuomo said. "If the localities do not do testing immediately in the schools in those areas, the state will close them immediately. We all want schools to reopen IF they can reopen safely. I have assured the parents of this state that I would not send my child to a school that I didn't know was safe. Without testing we can't assure parents and teachers of the safety of that school." As of Friday, 244 children in the East Ramapo district in Rockland County tested positive for the virus, as did 29 children in the Kiryas Joel school district in Orange County. "The Governor has not closed schools in Palm Tree to our knowledge," an Orange County spokesman said. "County Executive Steven Neuhaus has asked the Health Commissioner, under the Public Health Law, to request the State approve such a closure." Story continues A spokesman for Rockland County Executive Ed Day said Monday morning county officials did not know yet what Cuomo's new initiative will mean for the community. Last week, in a statement to Patch, Orange County Executive Steve Neuhas said the state "has principle law enforcement responsibility in Kiryas Joel and has told us they would enforce in the Village." Areas in all the hot spot communities will continue to be subject of focused testing, including with rapid testing machines. The state will deploy personnel to directly enforce state guidance, Cuomo said. The new effort is modeled on the State Liquor Authority and State Police Task Force that has been enforcing state guidance at bars and restaurants in New York City and on Long Island. Local businesses that violate the law can be subject to fines and closure. In the New York City hot spots, schools and nonessential businesses are expected to be closed beginning Wednesday. Mayor Bill de Blasio sent a proposal to the New York state government on Sunday seeking a closure of those facilities in the ZIP codes that have remained above a 3 percent positivity rate for the last seven days. The mayor's plan also calls for a temporary end to high-risk activities in 11 other city zip codes. SEE: This article originally appeared on the Ossining-Croton-On-Hudson Patch Kinder Morgan U.S. oil pipeline operators are slashing fees to encourage customers in Texas to keep using their networks to ship barrels to the Gulf Coast as the pandemic wreaks havoc on profits. Kinder Morgan Inc. is offering discounts of about 50% on the Eagle Ford pipeline for some existing customers, according to people familiar with the matter. Magellan Midstream Partners LP is negotiating lower tariffs on the Permians BridgeTex system for certain users whose contracts are up for renewal at the end of 2020, they said. Energy Transfer LP plans a volume incentive program for those who qualify on its Permian Express 2 and 3 pipelines. On Tuesday, October 6, at 13.00, the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency's press center will host a press conference entitled "Monitoring Public Opinion of Ukrainian Population: Assessments and Moods on the Eve of Local Elections" based on the results of a survey conducted from September 20 to September 29, 2020 with 3,014 respondents interviewed. Participants include Chairperson of the Board of the Social Monitoring Center Olha Balakireva, Director of the Social Monitoring Center Dmytro Dmytruk (8/5a Reitarska Street). The broadcast of the press conference will be available on the Youtube channel of the Interfax-Ukraine agency. Admission of journalists requires registration on the spot. You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Sometimes, at the most difficult juncture, comes opportunity. Covid-19 is the most difficult crisis in my five-decade business career and I am not alone in finding it challenging. Half of all SMEs have lower-than-normal turnover, some are going out of business entirely, everybody is nervous for the well-being of customers, colleagues and family and nobody knows how long the uncertainty will last. For many, the idea of creating jobs in this crisis is the last thing on their minds. It is a momentous step to give someone else a job. You are assuming responsibility for paying that person's wages. They are putting their livelihood - and maybe their family's - in your hands. In my 40-plus years in hospitality - restaurants, hotels, takeaways - giving people jobs is the thing that has given me the greatest buzz. There is no feeling like it. Having to make people redundant is the hardest thing too. And that's happening a lot now, along with pay cuts or reduced working hours. My experience is that there has never been a harder time to be an entrepreneur. Some of the fun of being in business has been taken out of it. The regulatory and legal burdens and the tax, administration and litigation risks only keep growing. I am on record many times about insurance costs and the threat of claims. It is making it impossible for some to even go into business as getting insurance can be unachievable or unviable for some. Government needs to dismantle some of the hurdles to entrepreneurship including the cost of insurance as I have said many times. But it needs to look too in this year's Budget at the incentives for new entrepreneurs. The Government needs to prioritise entrepreneurship in the Budget and to put the need for jobs at the top of the agenda. Otherwise we are facing into an unemployment disaster, likely to be made worse by the fact that the EU is coming after us on multinational taxation as evidenced by the appeal of the Apple case. The focus by Government on entrepreneurship needs to be on SMEs. Most big companies aren't net creators of jobs, they just put other makers of out-dated technologies or products out of business. Some of the businesses that do well in a lockdown - like technologies, digital etc - aren't always the biggest employers. Governments only create jobs with the taxes from other workers. Key workers have been seen in this crisis as mostly frontline public sector workers. And we owe them a great debt. As this crisis goes on much longer than anyone originally expected, entrepreneurs will need to be seen as key workers too. They are the engines of a dynamic economy and they need lubricant from Government to keep creating jobs in this time. Young companies are proven to be the best innovators whether it's in Galway or Gothenburg. Yet the bulk of Ireland's R&D tax credit is claimed by foreign companies - we need our Irish companies to do more R&D and claim for it. And while it has been improving in the indigenous sector, there is too heavy a weight of complex form-filling and paperwork for it in Ireland. Many young entrepreneurs I talk to complain our R&D regime has too much regulatory complexity and costs to bother with trying it here or trying to make a claim. In my career, hiring and having the right people has been the key to the success of Supermac's. In the future, once we get over the impending unemployment disasters of this pandemic and a bad Brexit, talent, more than capital, will be the critical factor. SMEs need the best people if they're to make a big breakthrough but they're under pressure. Holding on to those people is key to the success of any business and as Covid puts constraints and pressure on all businesses, the Government has acted swiftly to help companies to keep talent in place. The Wage Subsidy Scheme is a welcome support and will undoubtedly allow SMEs to spring forward as the economy opens. Another example are angel investors; they are not treated the same here as they are in Paris, Berlin or London. Angel investors help an economy to advance in a time of sluggish startups. Angel investment is usually smart money because the 'angels' are already established trailblazers and stars who are not only investing money but their global experience, their contact book, and their unbridled enthusiasm for startups. Investing in startups is a risky business. Our capital gains tax rate is one of the highest in the world. A high rate acts as a blocker to entrepreneurship. It hinders investment and the buying and selling of businesses, an activity that the rest of the world is embracing. France had a higher rate than us until President Macron, in a strategy to drive tech startups in France, slashed 20 percentage points off their rate. Germany has said that the sale of businesses is crucial to help businesses scale. Sweden boasts of the billion-dollar companies they have created and sold. Skype, Spotify, and the creators of CandyCrush amongst the most famous. More often than not, the sellers reinvest in the economy and mentor the startups of tomorrow. In other countries this is recognised more in tax policy and should be here, too. Overall, we need to put a halt to the extra burdens put upon business. Some EU countries have a great rule: 'One in, one out'. If you make a change that adds a burden, you must find another burden and take it out. It stands in stark contrast to the problems facing Ireland's small companies in the coming months as the burden appears to get greater and greater. Ireland tends to suffer paralysis from analysis. Doing reports are no substitute for the right action. The Finance Minister needs to go for it for 2021. He has much to work on as we have exciting areas here such as food, beverages, ICT, modern manufacturing and financial services. As the world stands on the brink, we must be able to grasp the chances that unfold as things rise again and be ready to seize the day. It is time to back Irish business. Pat McDonagh is the founder of the Supermac's Group which has 4,500 employees. The Group consists of Supermac's, The Plaza Group and So Hotels 'Protecting the health services' ability to cope and continue delivering care is a valid aim in itself.' (stock photo) The imperative stays the same: we have to fight Covid-19 with all our efforts. As time ticks on, and the creaks and groans from other health services build - services which were, to all intents and purposes, 'parked' since late March - we see another aspect of the enormity of this challenge. Yes, fighting Covid-19 must remain the priority. Although everyone - from Health Services Executive boss Paul Reid down - acknowledges that the focus must be widened. The day-to-day health services, which were almost shut down, have to be reopened and efforts are being made in that regard. From mental health care to cancer care, paediatrics and more routine procedures, like knee and hip replacements, most people will agree that something imitating normal service just has to be resumed. There is some dread in many quarters about the near-future consequences of the stalling of many day-to-day health services in Ireland since late March - when Covid-19 really hit home. In many ways, the national lockdown, applied from late March until mid-May, was as much about defending the health services and ensuring they were not totally over-run, as it was about arresting the virus spread and protecting public health. The same can now be said about an impending reversion to tough Covid-19 restrictions as the second wave of the virus hits us. This point is not to criticise our senior health administrators. Protecting the health services' ability to cope and continue delivering care is a valid aim in itself. The authorities' worry focuses on the numbers being admitted to hospital and the numbers especially requiring intensive care places. Yet it remains something of a puzzle why Ireland has such a scarcity of intensive care hospital places. The question itself raises further issues about deficiencies in our healthcare provision, despite comparatively high per capita spending on the service. This past spring, as coronavirus descended upon us, the health services leased private hospital services to bolster against this deficiency. Happily, the leased private services were largely not required. Nevertheless, it is worth asking why other contingency plans were not activated for an expected second wave of this virus in the interim. Tomorrow will mark precisely three weeks since the Government published its strategy billed as a blueprint to deal with the next six to nine months of the Covid-19 pandemic. Collectively, we now know much more about the virus than we did before. The initial policy response at the end of March was a blunt and desperate national lockdown. We know now that if we are to live with the coronavirus for months and perhaps years, our response will have to be dynamic and fluid. Communicating far more complicated and deeply unwelcome messages at this point to a plague-weary public is now a vastly bigger challenge. Being seen to remedy at least some of the day-to-day, non-Covid-19 health issues would surely be a help in achieving those aims. Living with this virus requires this. Haiti - News : Zapping... Individuals on motorbike open fire on passers-by On Saturday 3 October at Delmas 83, unidentified individuals riding a motorbike opened fire on passers-by before fleeing, leaving at least 2 injured, including a police officer, who were rushed to hospital. Former Deputy Tardieu is launching a new political movement Saturday the former deputy of Petion-ville Jerry Tardieu, opponent to the power in place, launched in front of several hundred sympathizers, a new political movement named "En Avant" (Forward), specifying "it is not an electoral movement, it is a movement to change Haiti" note that of the 18 personalities leading the movement, 3 are women. Cap-Haitien : The dean of the TPI renewed Me Jean Ralph Prevost Dean of the Court of First Instance (TPI) of Cap-Haitien has been reappointed by the Superior Council of the Judicial Power (CSPJ) Gunshot death of student Saint-Hilaire, strong reactions : President Jovenel Moise : "The death of the student Gregory Saint-Hilaire arouses the indignation of all. I reaffirm my faith in the principle of the right to life for every citizen. My sympathies to the family of the very late. An investigation is underway to shed light on this death which is one too many." Ministry of National Education : The Ministry of National Education learned with dismay of the tragic death of the student Gregory Saint-Hilaire, on Friday October 2 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-31955-haiti-flash-a-student-shot-dead-smear-of-the-palace-security-officers.html . The Ministry asks the authorities to carry out an investigation in order to determine the circumstances of this tragedy and "expresses its sympathies to the families of the victim, to his relatives and to all his friends as well as to the entire team of the Ecole normale superieure affected by this tragic death." The Directorate of the Ecole Normale Superieure (ENS) : The Directorate condemns in the strongest terms the death of the student Gregory Saint Hilaire killed by agents of the General Security Unit of the National Palace (USGPN) on the premises of the ENS. The Management is deeply affected by this act and expresses its sympathies to the family and friends of Gregory Saint Hilaire. The Government Commissioner near the Court of First Instance of Port-au-Prince asked Dr. Armal Demorcy, Director of the Medico-Legal Institute to proceed with the extraction of the projectile(s) and the autopsy of the student Gregory Saint-Hilaire. Review of the facts : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-31955-haiti-flash-a-student-shot-dead-smear-of-the-palace-security-officers.html HL/ HaitiLibre Russias ambassador to Iran said Saturday that the Kremlin may sell its S-400 missile defense system to Tehran after the UN arms embargo expires later this month. We have provided Iran with the S-300. Russia does not have any problem to deliver the S-400 to Iran, and it did not have any problem before, either, Ambassador Levan Dzhagaryan told Tehran-based Risalat newspaper, according to Irans semi-official Fars News Agency. We have said since the very first day that there will be no problem for selling weapons to Iran from Oct. 19, Dzhagaryan said, adding that Russia is not concerned with US threats. Why It Matters: The seriousness of Dzhagaryans suggestion remains unclear. The Kremlin has floated the proposal before, though no formal request by Iran has been publicized. But if Iran were to obtain the S-400, it would be a slap in the face to the Donald Trump administration and is unlikely to be taken kindly by Israel. Russia already delivered its S-300 missile defense system to Iran in 2016 after the signing of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action during the Barack Obama US presidential administration. The Trump administration failed to convince even its major European allies Germany, Britain and France to support the renewal of the yearslong arms embargo. The S-400 long-range air defense system is highly advanced and could pose a threat to US-built aircraft flown by the United States and its regional allies in case of conflict with Iran. Whats Next: The UN arms embargo is set to expire on Oct. 18, and the United States has said it will unilaterally snap back international sanctions on Tehran, despite opposition from Russia and China and objection from US allies. Despite the setbacks, the Trump administration shows no sign on of letting up its thrust to isolate and economically cripple Iran in hope of bringing its leaders back to the negotiating table. Know More: Russias sale of the S-400 to Turkey has helped push Washingtons relations with Ankara to one of the lowest points since Turkey joined NATO in 1952, but the Pentagon says it has no plans to give up on its presence in Incirlik just yet. And Anton Mardasov explains how Russian leaders may weigh possible arms sales to Iran with regard to the Kremlins broader interests in dealing with the United States and the Middle East. Much of the world got to know Carl Sagan through Cosmos: A Personal Voyage, the thirteen-part PBS series on the nature of the universe and the intensity of Sagans own passion to discover that nature. First aired in 1980, it would become the most widely watched series in the history of American public television. But its not as if Sagan had been languishing in obscurity before: hed been publishing popular books since the early 1970s, and 1977s The Dragons of Eden: Speculations on the Evolution of Human Intelligence won him a Pulitzer Prize. When Cosmos made its impact, some viewers may even have remembered its host from a series of similarly themed broadcasts a decade earlier, The Violent Universe. Produced by the BBC in 1969 and broadcast just three months before the Apollo 11 moon landing, The Violent Universe (viewable above) explains in five parts a range of discoveries made during the then-recent revolution in astronomy, including infrared galaxies, neutrinos, pulsars and quasars, red giants and white dwarfs. In so doing it includes footage taken in observatories not just across the Earth England, Puerto Rico, Holland, Californa but high above it in orbit and even deep inside it, beneath the badlands of South Dakota. One installment pays a visit to Kochi, the rural Japanese prefectural capital where guitarist-astronomer Tsutomu Seki makes his home and his small home observatory, where he had worked to co-discover Comet IkeyaSeki just four years before. All of this international material or rather interstellar material is anchored in the studio by television journalist Robert MacNeil, later of PBS The MacNeil/Lehrer Report, and a certain professor of astronomy at Cornell University by the name of Carl Sagan. Despite exuding a more deliberate seriousness than he would in Cosmos, the young Sagan nevertheless explains the astronomical and astrophysical concepts at hand with a clarity and vigor that would have made them immediately clear to television audiences of half a century ago, and indeed still makes them clear to the Youtube audiences of today. Apart, perhaps, from its Twilight Zone-style theme music The Violent Universe has in its visual elements aged more gracefully than the 70s series that made Sagan into a science icon. And how many other other public-television documentaries about the universe include poetry recitations from Richard Burton? via BoingBoing Related Content: Carl Sagan, Stephen Hawking & Arthur C. Clarke Discuss God, the Universe, and Everything Else Carl Sagan Presents Six Lectures on Earth, Mars & Our Solar System For Kids (1977) Carl Sagan Explains Evolution in an Eight-Minute Animation Carl Sagan on the Virtues of Marijuana (1969) Carl Sagan Issues a Chilling Warning to America in His Final Interview (1996) The Pioneering Physics TV Show, The Mechanical Universe, Is Now on YouTube: 52 Complete Episodes from Caltech Based in Seoul, Colin Marshall writes and broadcasts on cities, language, and culture. His projects include the Substack newsletter Books on Cities, the book The Stateless City: a Walk through 21st-Century Los Angeles and the video series The City in Cinema. Follow him on Twitter at @colinmarshall, on Facebook, or on Instagram. First, theres just an old-timey stage. The frame is cast in sepia tones, vintage like an old photo. Then, marionette puppets descend, still but lifelike. Its them: Joey and Chris on the left. JC in the center. Justin and Lance at the right. The string crescendo begins. Hey, hey, a whiney falsetto croons. You succumb to the hysteria. This is not just a group of heartthrob singers propelling from strings. This is a cultural phenomenon. No a cultural behemoth. This is the Bye Bye Bye music video. At the turn of the millennium, N Sync made up of Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Chris Kirkpatrick, Lance Bass and Joey Fatone created an undeniable magic with Bye Bye Bye, the 2000 single that ultimately catapulted the boy band into a different realm of legendary. But it was the music video, released concurrently with the song on Jan. 11, 2000, that etched it into history as one of the top dance tracks of all time. Choreographer Darrin Henson the same Darrin from the Darrins Dance Grooves videos that dominated commercials in the 2000s is the guy behind the moves seen in the videos famous puppeteering sequences, which would eventually be revisited as a theme in the groups subsequent Its Gonna Be Me video and No Strings Attached album. NSync Bye Bye Bye (Darrin Henson) Henson told TODAY that it all started in 1999 when N Sync, having just parted ways with Lou Pearlman, the late music mogul-turned-con artist who founded the band, was starting a new chapter and looking to kick it off with something big. At the time, Henson, who hails from the Bronx in New York City, had lost out on an MTV Video Music Award for choreographing Jordan Knights Give It to You and was just about to throw in the towel with dancing. Then he got a call from N Syncs manager at the time, Johnny Wright. Johnny sent me the music, and I was like, this is hot, this is so hot, Henson told TODAY. He then headed to Las Vegas, where N Sync was performing at the Billboard Music Awards, to get cracking on the steps he wanted to incorporate into the video. Story continues I just stood with the choreography, lingering, working on it, putting body to song, he said. Henson said he turned to a street-dancing technique, popping and locking, when coming up with the footing. There is a part of popping called puppet that was very well known to me, he said. With No Strings Attached, the puppeteering aspect of it just worked. Of course, when reaching into the vault of top dance tracks, each one has a single infectious move thats learned and repeated by everybody. (Admit it, youve tried to zombie walk like Michael Jackson in Thriller or hand wave like Beyonce in Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) or strike a pose like Madonna in Vogue.) For Bye Bye Bye, thats the puppet hand along with the fist-bumping step. That came from the Black power fist. So the aint no lie (lyric) is the power fist, Henson told TODAY. The bye bye bye is the talking puppet hand so that actually was another thing in New York that we used to do. The bye bye bye meant you can stop talking, its done, were done, its absolute, everythings over. NSync Bye Bye Bye (Darrin Henson) So thats the actual lineage of how Bye Bye Bye was created in terms of that chorus aspect. The dance, the body of the dance, so that was all hot, hitting, hardcore, syncopated movement. Filming of the music video was on the horizon, and Henson headed back to Los Angeles to rehearse with the guys at Alley Kat Studio. Seeing N Sync execute the synchronized moves for the first time, Henson said, was the ultimate work of art. It was breathtaking, he added. Not only was it something that we learned to love in terms of hearing, but we actually got to see it visually. It became this wonderful cacophony of music and moves that I think transcended throughout the rest of the world. That might sound crazy, but it aint no lie. At the time, Bye Bye Bye drummed up so much N Sync mania in the run-up to the No Strings Attached release that the album went platinum its first day in stores and sold 2.4 million copies in seven days a first-week sales record the band held for 15 years until Adele surpassed them in 2015. Today, the Bye Bye Bye music video has amassed more than 237 million views on YouTube. Billboard magazine ranked it 21st on its list of the 100 Greatest Music Videos of the 21st Century. The track itself is ranked second on Rolling Stones list of the 75 Greatest Boy Band Songs of All Time. And as for Henson, he ended up nabbing that VMA for choreographing this very song. I called it being tuned in, tapped in and turned on to the world, Henson said. The connectivity of it hasnt stopped. ... Its really cool to know that its a part of peoples lives. To look at being a part of the fabric of the millennium 2000, really the turn of the century and (for) everybody to look at that as a moment in time, for me and the guys to be etched in stone is I dont really have any words. Mick Fleetwood has responded to Nathan Apodaca's viral TikTok video that featured Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams." (Evan Agostini / Invision / Associated Press) Fleetwood Mac's Mick Fleetwood just made all our TikTok dreams come true. On Sunday, the rock legend, 73, joined the Gen Z-facing social media platform for a sole purpose. He re-created the viral video of TikTok star Nathan Apodaca skateboarding down an Idaho highway while drinking Ocean Spray Cran-Raspberry juice and jamming to Fleetwood Mac's classic hit "Dreams." "@420doggface208 had it right," Fleetwood captioned his take on the "Dreams" challenge, referring to Apodaca's TikTok handle. Fleetwood's video sees him gliding past some trees while sipping his own bottle of Ocean Spray Cran-Raspberry. "Dreams and Cranberry just hits different." Within hours, Apodaca responded to Fleetwood's tribute, tweeting, "Beyond blessed @fleetwoodmac @mickfleetwood thanks for Steady Vibin," with some on-brand, live-long-and-prosper and shaka emojis. Last week, the Los Angeles Times connected with Apodaca, who works as a laborer at a potato warehouse and a "camp crew" firefighter in Idaho when he isn't setting the latest TikTok trend. His original "Dreams" video, which has amassed more than 22.2 million views and 4.2 million likes on the platform, has also significantly boosted streams and sales for the Fleetwood Mac tune. After Apodaca posted his "Dreams" video on Sept. 25, Fleetwood Mac's official Twitter account shared it the next day with an endorsement: "We love this!" Everybody always says, do more skating videos. I just do me, basically, Apodaca told The Times of his social media fame. And it puts smiles on faces. And thats what makes me happy about it. Story continues Those smiles are contagious. Fleetwood wasn't the only TikToker to do the "Doggface Challenge" over the weekend. Instagram influencer Kiel James Patrick known for his cozy, New England aesthetic posted a "spooky vibe" version on Saturday, featuring a jack-o'-lantern and a subtle nod to Apodaca's feather tattoo. The TikTok challenge seems to have taken off, reaching past a younger core audience to anyone in need of a quarantine pick-me-up. TikTok user @average_joe38, for instance, shared a video of his grandpa who he said "wanted to vibe" with Apodaca but can't skateboard. He used a motorized scooter instead. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Planning to drop off your general election ballot at your polling place on Election Day? Wanting to make sure you arrive at the correct place, the Hudson County Clerks Office has added a map feature to the countys election information website, county Clerk Junior Maldonado announced. The mapping feature identifies all 107 polling locations in the upcoming elections, at which voters will cast their ballots for president, U.S. Senate and Congress, as well as local elections. The election information website also includes different ways to cast your ballot and a tool to track your ballot. Any additional election questions can be directed to the County Clerks Division of Elections at 201-369-3470, option 6, or emailed to countyclerk@hcnj.us In an interview with the Sydney Morning Herald last week, Australian Federal Police (AFP) commissioner Reece Kershaw revealed for the first time that a specialist AFP unit established last December to counter foreign interference and espionage has been trained by officials from the American Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). The admission is the latest, and most direct confirmation, that the US government and its intelligence agencies have been centrally involved in a McCarthyite witch hunt targeting supposed Chinese interference in Australian politics and virtually every area of society. This campaign included the passage, by the Liberal-National Coalition and Labor Party opposition, of draconian foreign interference laws in 2018 that potentially criminalise any individual or organisation in contact with a foreign principal. The legislation, while directed in the first instance against Chinese nationals, creates the conditions for criminal action against anti-war organisations and the illegalisation of internationally-coordinated political activity. AFP officers at an airport last year (Credit: afp.gov.au) Kershaws interview made clear that the AFP squad is actively seeking to manufacture prosecutions under the laws, which have been held up by the US government and media as a model to be emulated internationally. This is in line with the intensification of the Trump administrations campaign against China, involving trade war measures, diplomatic aggression, attacks on democratic rights and military provocations that threaten war. The collaboration between the AFP and the FBI has been at the highest levels. Kershaw stated that he had reached out to FBI director Chris Wray and asked him for assistance... around training our people and looking at how we could deliver our own package perhaps modelled on the US...He was great, sent his people out, we did that early on in the piece. While his comments were vague on details, the unmistakable conclusion from Kershaws statement is that the FBI, one of the main domestic spy and federal policing agencies of the United States, played a central role in the very establishment of the AFP foreign interference and espionage unit. The Herald article was a fawning and uncritical piece, commissioned to celebrate Kershaws first 12 months as AFP chief. Predictably none of the questions raised by Kershaws statements were even asked, let alone answered. Chief among them is the obvious irony of a domestic agency of the American government overseeing a supposed struggle against foreign interference in Australia. Nor was there any probing of the extent of the ongoing involvement of the FBI and the American state in the activities of the AFP unit. Very little was written about Chris Wray. He is an anti-China hawk, who was handpicked to head the FBI by President Trump, and has played a central role in ratcheting up the anti-China campaign within the US. In July, he declared that China posed the greatest threat to US interests in the world. Weve now reached a point where the FBI is now opening a new China-related case every 10 hours, Mr Wray said. Of the nearly 5,000 active counterintelligence cases currently under way across the country, almost half are related to China. Despite the uncritical character of the Sydney Morning Herald interview , Kershaw did point to the scope and resources of the specialist team, revealing that it is currently composed of 65 full-time AFP officers, with a significant scope to expand based on the large sums allocated to police and military funding by the Liberal-National Coalition government and the Labor opposition. Reference was made in the article to the first public operation of the AFP unit, a raid on the home and parliamentary office of New South Wales state Labor parliamentarian Shaoquett Moselmane last June. The unprecedented action, carried out in collaboration with the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), the domestic spy agency, was greeted by lurid media headlines accusing Moselmane of being an agent of the Chinese Communist Party. The attack was immediately supported by the state and federal Labor leadership, and Moselmane was forced to take indefinite leave from parliament. The only publicly-released evidence against him, however, was that he had visited China on several occasions, and had made statements praising the Chinese response to the coronavirus and warning against the implications of the US provocations targeting Beijing. It has since emerged that the target of the AFP investigation is John Zhang, who worked as a part-time staffer in Moselmanes office. Media reports, based on information provided by AFP and ASIO, point to the threadbare character of the allegations against Zhang. He has been associated with Chinese community organisations, participated in a private WeChat group of which Moselmane was also a member and has had contacts with the Chinese consulate. Zhang has launched a Supreme Court challenge, maintaining that the accusations against him are an attack on the implied right to freedom of political communication in the Australian Constitution. The subject was not broached in the interview with Kershaw, but it is hard to believe that the FBI was not at least apprised of the first major operation being conducted by the AFP team that it had trained. The likelihood that the FBI was involved in planning a raid on an Australian parliamentarian has major implications for democratic rights. It would be a clear case of foreign interference, but one that the Australian political and media establishment has no interest in probing. The raid against Moselmane was accompanied by wartime measures targeting Chinese nationals. Last month, it was revealed that on the same day that the parliamentarian was raided, so were four journalists employed by Chinese state-media in Australia. Their laptops and devices were taken and ASIO invoked draconian powers to prevent them from reporting the operation. Like Zhang, at least some of the journalists were apparently members of the WeChat grouping. In addition, court filings by Zhang have claimed that AFP and ASIO officers took correspondence between himself and Chinese consular officials. This would be a violation of protocols under international law which protect the rights of diplomats. The picture that emerges, from Kershaws statement and what has been revealed of the actions against Zhang and Moselmane, is of the FBIs involvement in targeting political figures, journalists and diplomats who are suspected of not being fully on board with Australias central role in the US preparations for war with China. Kershaw signalled that this will be escalated. He declared that the AFP unit was focusing on convert[ing] intelligence into evidence. We have a fantastic relationship with ASIO and the intelligence community about how we wash that into a brief of evidence. This is a warning the further frame-ups and prosecutions are in the offing. In comments featured in the Australian, Kershaw revealed that the AFP is carrying out a recruitment drive targeting Mandarin speakers. Attempts are undoubtedly underway to cultivate informants and to pressure Chinese nationals to cooperate, similar to the targeting of the Muslim and Middle Eastern communities as part of the war on terror. Kershaw also made some weasel words about public concern over the AFP raids targeting the Sydney headquarters of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and the home of Newscorp political editor Annika Smethurst in June, 2019. The operations were over separate stories exposing Australian involvement in alleged war crimes in Afghanistan and plans for expanded domestic spying. Kershaw promoted a notice to produce scheme, which would allow media organisations to hand over information to the AFP, before having police officers barge through their front door, as the best alternative to further state raids on journalists. The AFP raids on the journalists were conducted before the establishment of the foreign interference taskforce, and made use of existing legislation criminalising the possession of classified national security material. But the revelation of the FBIs involvement in the foreign interference squad inevitably raises questions about a greater US hand in those raids than has previously been acknowledged. In the aftermath of the raids, then acting AFP commissioner Neil Gaughan declared their purpose was to protect the information that the Australian police and intelligence agencies receive from their counterparts in the US-led Five Eyes spying network. The obvious question, given the role of the FBI since the ABC and Smethurst raids in the AFPs foreign interference task force is whether the bureau was as heavily involved in planning those actions against Australian journalists. This would be in line with the US attempts to prosecute WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, for his exposure of American war crimes, human rights abuses and global diplomatic intrigues. The raids against the ABC and Smethurst occurred a month after the Trump administration issued a superseding indictment against Assange, including 17 counts of violating the Espionage Act, punishable by 175 years imprisonment. The indictment was based on the work of an FBI counter-espionage squad. In any event, Kershaws statements demonstrate that the drive to war is inevitably accompanied by an onslaught against democratic rights. Like their counterparts in the US, the Australian ruling elite is seeking to divert social tensions outwards, with increasing aggression against Beijing, and a witch hunt against foreign interference that is creating the conditions for a far broader assault on social and political opposition from the working class. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 00:14:22|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close JUBA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan on Monday partially reopened schools after six months of lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Minister for general education Awut Deng Achuil, said about 110,000 final year students will be allowed to attend classes across the country during phase one of the school reopening calendar. Achuil said the decision was taken to enable candidate students to complete their studies amid reduction in the number of COVID-19 cases in the east African country. "Reopening of schools in phases is a difficult thing at this moment, but we have no choice," Achuil said. She added that learning for non-candidate classes in kindergarten, primary and secondary schools will reopen in April 2021. "Phase two will begin in April 2021, but we will continue with the distance learning program through radio," she added. Vice President for Service Cluster and head of the country's COVID-19 taskforce, Hussein Abdelbagi Akol said schools will be required to follow strict COVID-19 preventive measures as learners return to classes. South Sudan has confirmed 2,734 COVID-19 positive cases with 2,560 recoveries and 50 deaths as of Monday. Enditem Borsa Italiana non ha responsabilita per il contenuto del sito a cui sta per accedere e non ha responsabilita per le informazioni contenute. Accedendo a questo link, Borsa Italiana non intende sollecitare acquisti o offerte in alcun paese da parte di nessuno. Sarai automaticamente diretto al link in cinque secondi. BOGOTA, Colombia, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Avianca Holdings S.A. (OTCMKTS: AVHOQ, BVC: PFAVH) (the "Company" or "Avianca") today announced that it has received approval from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York (the "U.S. Court") to access its debtor-in-possession ("DIP") financing totaling just over US$2.0 billion. Adrian Neuhauser, Chief Financial Officer of Avianca said, "The approval of the DIP financing package is a significant milestone and an important step forward for Avianca. We would like to again thank our lenders for their support and confidence in Avianca's future success. We continue to work on our go-forward operating plan in order to emerge from this process as a stronger and more efficient airline, and look forward to presenting our plan to the U.S Court as we move forward in the Chapter 11 process." Anko van der Werff, President and Chief Executive Officer of Avianca, added, "With U.S. Court approval to fully access this DIP financing, Avianca has ample liquidity to support our operations as we continue flying and serving customers. As COVID restrictions begin to ease, we are pleased to have safely resumed passenger flights to 21 cities in Colombia and 14 international destinations and look forward to adding more destinations to meet our customers' travel needs over the coming months. We thank our customers for their loyalty, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to connecting people, families and businesses across Latin America through the Chapter 11 process and beyond." As previously announced on September 21, 2020, the Company's DIP financing totals approximately US$ 2.0 billion, consisting of a US$ 1.27 billion Tranche A senior secured financing and a US$ 722 million Tranche B secured subordinated loan. The DIP financing includes approximately US$ 1.2 billion of new funds (US$ 881 million in Tranche A and US$ 336 million in Tranche B). Funding remains subject to entry of the order by the judge in the U.S. Court and certain conditions precedent, all of which are expected to be satisfied in the coming week. Seabury Securities LLC is serving as Avianca's investment bank and financial advisor. Goldman Sachs Lending Partners LLC and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. are serving as co-lead arrangers and joint bookrunners of the Tranche A DIP Loans. Milbank LLP is serving as Avianca's legal advisor. Additional information about the DIP financing and Chapter 11 process is available on Avianca's website (www.aviancaholdings.com). About Avianca Holdings S.A. (OTCMKTS: AVHOQ) (BVC: PFAVH) Avianca is the trademark for the group of passenger airlines and cargo airlines under the holding company Avianca Holdings S.A. Avianca has been flying continuously for 100 years. As of December 2019, the Company had over 21,000 employees, operated a fleet of 158 aircraft and served 76 destinations in 27 countries within the Americas and Europe. In 2019, the Company carried 30.5 million passengers, generating revenues of approximately US$ 4.6 billion. Forward-Looking Statements Avianca has included statements in this press release that constitute "forward-looking statements". As a general matter, forward-looking statements are those focused on future or anticipated events or trends, expectations, and beliefs including, among other things, the Company's expectations with respect to its Chapter 11 proceedings, the airline industry and the impacts of COVID-19. Such statements are intended to be identified by words such as "believe," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "will," "project," "plan" and similar expressions in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial performance. Any forward-looking statements are and will be based upon the Company's then-current expectations, estimates and assumptions regarding future events and are applicable only as of the dates of such statements. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this press release are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, including with respect to the Chapter 11 process, related negotiations and hearings before the Bankruptcy Court, as well as the COVID-19 crisis. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in this press release for numerous reasons, including factors outside of the Company's control. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update or revise this press release, including any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Contacts Investor Contact Avianca: Luca Pfeifer, Head of Investor Relations [email protected] (571) (5877700) U.S. and Europe Media Contact Avianca: Viviana Escobar, Corporate Communications [email protected] Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher: Leigh Parrish [email protected] +1 212 355 4449 Colombia, Central America and South America Media Contact Avianca: Maria Carolina Cortes. Corporate Communications [email protected] SOURCE Avianca Holdings S.A. Related Links http://www.aviancaholdings.com The 15 images are some of the entries so far in the travel and culture category of the 2021 Cewe Photo Award They include a beautiful image of the French city of Strasbourg and a sunset snap of the Acropolis in Athens Snappers have until May 2021 to enter the contest, which is one of the biggest photo contests in the world If your wanderlust has fizzled out it's not really surprising, given the circumstances. But if you scroll down and take a peek at these stunning travel photographs the chances are it'll be reignited. ADVERTISEMENT They are presented here courtesy of Cewe, a photo book and online retailer, which runs one of the largest annual open photo competitions in the world. The 15 images below are just some of the entries submitted so far in the travel and culture category in the 2021 edition of the contest. They include an incredible shot of an avenue of beech trees in Northern Ireland - which will be instantly recognisable to Game of Thrones fans - a beautiful image of the French city of Strasbourg and an epic photo of the Acropolis in Athens captured at sunset. Clare Moreton, a photo expert at Cewe UK, said: 'It might be a few months more before we can travel in a more familiar way, but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy planning where we might go on our next trip, or looking back at the great memories made whilst travelling abroad.' An avenue of ancient beech trees, known as the Dark Hedges, in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, catches the morning sunlight in this stunning photo by Steve Allen. Game of Thrones fans might also know the location as Kingsroad Photographer Ivan Banovic shot this jaw-dropping aerial image of Omis - a town in Croatia that is also known as the 'town of pirates' A picture-postcard scene captured by photographer Thierry Den Hartog of the river in Strasbourg, France. Strasbourg is the capital of the north-eastern Grand Est region Colours collide in this summery shot by Kay Ludwig of Varadero Beach in Cuba. Tripadvisor named the beach as the ninth-best stretch of sand in the world in its ranking of the best beaches of 2020 The ancient citadel of the Acropolis in the Greek capital Athens is captured at sunset in this magical shot by Marius Godoi Click here to resize this module This serene scene was snapped at the Sheikh Sayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi by Christina Theuerkauf. It is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates A horse and its rider in Monument Valley, Arizona, conjure up a scene from a Wild West movie in this photo by Meike Heidemann Photographer Nicola Montfort snapped this candid shot of a gondolier in Venice stopping to taking a call on his phone Daniel Mirisch is the photographer behind this stunning image, which shows a rainbow of colours lighting up the side of the Pont Valentre bridge in Cahors - a town in the south of France Photographer Matej Kotula waited for the perfect moment to capture this snap, which shows the sun rising above the Slovakian capital of Bratislava The pagoda of Seigantoji stands next to Nachi no Taki, one of the tallest single-tiered waterfalls in Japan at 436ft (133 metres). The beautiful scene was captured by photographer Lorraine Yip Andreja Ravnak took this stunning shot during the famous Venice carnival, which is best known for its show of elaborate masks This charming image by Artur Pardo shows children gathering near a fish market in Manila, the capital of the Philippines Photographer Jonathan Gatzer is behind this mesmerising shot showing the sun setting in Zambia Boats rest on the beach of Praia do Sono in the east of Brazil on a canvas of sea spray and tropical vegetation, in an amazing photo snapped by Nico Barner CLEVELAND, Ohio The coronavirus pandemic and health cares response to it, along with the unveiling of the annual Top 10 Medical Innovations list, are highlights of the Cleveland Clinic Medical Innovation Summit, which will be held Tuesday. This years event will be held virtually, and registration is free. The one-day event, which will be broadcast live, brings together healthcare speakers and leaders who will share ideas about how innovations are changing the delivery of care to patients. The focus will be on the adoption of telehealth and other digital health initiatives, the Clinic said. The summit is organized by Cleveland Clinic Innovations, the development and commercialization arm of Cleveland Clinic. The event begins at 8:45 a.m. and kicks off with a panel involving top hospital CEOs discussing the importance of collaboration among caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 9 a.m. panel includes Clinic CEO and president Dr. Tomislav Mihaljevic, Mayo Clinic president and CEO Dr. Gianrico Farrugia, and Massachusetts General Hospital president and CEO Dr. Ann Klibanski. The moderator will be journalist and author Joan Lunden. Mihaljevic will moderate a fireside chat at 10:35 a.m. with Anthem President and CEO Gail Boudreaux. The two leaders will discuss the ways in which telemedicine revolutionized health care in 2020, and if those changes can be sustained when the COVID-19 pandemic fades. A second Fireside Chat at 1:05 p.m., moderated by Dr. Brian Donley, CEO of Cleveland Clinic London, with Dr. Mace Rothenberg, chief medical officer at Pfizer, will center on keeping patient-center care as a top priority during the COVID-19 pandemic. Oracle Corp. CEO Safra Catz will deliver a keynote address at 3:15 p.m. about the benefits of cloud computing for generating, storing and sharing data in healthcare. Cloud computings benefits include better security, lower costs and greater collaboration abilities. The Top 10 Medical Innovations for 2020 will be announced at 4 p.m. and includes diverse innovations, said Dr. William Morris, Executive Medical Director of Cleveland Clinic Innovations, ranging from a new gene therapy for sickle cell disease and new drugs for cystic fibrosis, to increased access to telemedicine and smartphone-connected pacemaker devices. Innovation is not a one size fits all. It really runs the entire gamut, Morris said. Other notable speakers at the summit include Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel, Khosla Ventures Chief of Staff Kristina Simmons, and Cerner president Don Trigg. CNBC reporter Chrissy Farr and CNBC senior health and science reporter Meg Tirrell are also among the notable speakers. Thomas Jefferson (known as TJ), which focuses on STEM and is often ranked No. 1 in public high schools in the country, has for decades seen single-digit percentages of Black and Hispanic students. Over the summer, at the height of the George Floyd protests and after Fairfax released numbers showing less than 10 members of TJs Class of 2024 are Black, a vocal group of parents, students and alumni began calling for change. The novel coronavirus has been highly politicised in the United States right from the outset, but with President Trumps recent diagnosis, this politicisation has reached a fever pitch. Across the country, Americans are calling for facts and transparency about the Presidents illness, while the President sends a phalanx of white-coated doctors and nurses to front the media, creating more questions than answers about his condition. At the heart of this are questions around what leaders give up in order to be leaders, and what right constituents have to know about the health and well-being of those we elect. The President of the United States holds significant powers, and knowing that he has the capacity to wield them is of national, and international, interest. All patients, even if they are national leaders or other public figures, have a right to privacy. Their physicians have legal and moral obligations to not disclose details of their health conditions without permission. So calling on Dr Sean Conley, the Presidents physician, to release clinical details including blood tests, scans and other details seems out of bounds. The American people have a right to know if the person in charge of their country is capable of holding that office, or if that office has been ceded to the Vice-President, but the clinical details of President Trumps illness do not need to be revealed. When British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was hospitalised in April this was the approach. Regular sparse updates from the hospital told the public about his medical condition but were light on detail. They struck an appropriate balance between protecting his privacy and keeping the public informed about the health of their Prime Minister. His star turn as Scott Hastings in Strictly Ballroom made him Australias favourite son. But now actor Paul Mercurio has a different role in mind: hes standing as a candidate in Watson ward for Mornington Peninsula Shire Council. And the field is wide open, with incumbent councillor Julie Morris deciding not to recontest. I like to put it in theatrical parlance, Mercurio says with a flourish, explaining his philosophy of local government. Theres the front of house, the councillors, and the back of house, the chief executive and council officers. His critique of Mornington Shire, where he has lived for 12 years, contains echoes of Strictlys anti-authoritarianism. He thinks that the council engages in too much policing. Mercurio has been a longstanding supporter of the Peninsula Aero Club, near his home in Tyabb. Locals have been to VCAT attempting to overturn a series of council restrictions they regard as examples of council heavy-handedness. And as to suggestions that he is not qualified to be a councillor? AfricArena, the African dealflow platform for tech startups, investors and corporates, will be hosting its fourth annual Summit from 24-25 November in Cape Town - preceded by its Founders' Bootcamp and VC Unconference Weekends - and virtually with AfricArena Air. AfricArena Summit 2019 The AfricArena Tour AfricArena Summit 2020 The AfricArena Unconference and Startup Bootcamp Introducing AfricArena Air A platform made by, and for, investors and entrepreneurs in high growth market Africa, home to disruptive innovations such as mobile payment, is continuing to see, even through Covid-19, an acceleration in numbers of investment deals in its tech startups, primarily focused on inclusive fintech, social innovation and clean-tech/off-grid (those sectors representing over 53% of $2 billion in investment in 2019), and represent the next major growth market of investment in tech.Since its inception in 2017, AfricArena has been a platform dedicated to supporting the creation of market access and investment opportunities for its ever-increasing community of founders, angels, corporates and VC investors.Designed with a digital approach in mind, AfricArena consists of a series of investment deal flow events and interventions and an open-source platform for all stakeholders, all based on principles of open innovation and entrepreneurship. Since inception, the AfricArena brand has rapidly gained enormous credibility in the tech startup ecosystem with alumni startups having raised over $160million in the past four years.The AfricArena Summit is the culmination of a year-long build up of events realised through the AfricArena Tour. During the course of the year, pre-selection pitch events take place at the major tech hubs of the African continent in search of highly potential startups.The AfricArena Tour features Pitch Challenges defined by corporate sponsors, such as Air France/KLM and Amazon Web Services and institutional partners, such as Bpifrance/Euroquity and United Nations ITC, as well as "Best of Ecosystem" challenges which are defined by AfricArena and are open to all kinds of tech startups. This year, all of the Tour events have taken place virtually, through webinars, covering destinations that include: Morocco, Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Tunisia, Kenya, Senegal, and Ivory Coast.Building on the success of the past three editions, AfricArena 2020 is accelerating the momentum, while taking into account required Covid-19 health and safety measures. In an effort to support entrepreneurship and economic contribution, an in-person Summit, with attendance limitations, will take place on from 2425 November 2020, at Workshop17 (Watershed, V&A Waterfront) in Cape Town. The Summit will welcome startups, investors, corporates, media, institutional body representatives and representatives of ecosystem enablers such incubators and accelerators.The two-day event will feature over 40startups from across the continent pitching in various Open Innovation Challenges, including ones set by Air France, Bpifrance and Viva Tech; as well as investment tracks with Seed, Series A and Series B startups all pitching. The Summit will feature keynotes and panel discussions from esteemed figures in tech innovation, business and investment.Delegates of the Summit will also enjoy side events, such as the VC Night, which foster networking between some of the key stakeholders of Africas tech future.On the weekend leading up to the Summit, there will be two programmes running in parallel to each other: a VC unconference for investors active in the African tech space, and a pitching bootcamp for startups that will be taking the stage at the Summit.A new element of AfricArena 2020 is AfricArena Air, AfricArenas digital track, available from anywhere in the world, and providing a wealth of content co created with investors, entrepreneurs and corporates, and designed to enable a very high level of interaction and networking, something often missing in the digital event space.In addition, several tech hubs across the continent, such as Impact Hubs, will be running micro hybrid digital & in person events to enjoy the livestream of AfricArena from the comfort of their local hub while also networking with other local ecosystem players. This will enable AfricArena to run the first distributed tech conference ever, while contributing to generating much needed income for the African tech hubs, encouraging a new level of interaction in our new reality and driving home AfricArenas core focus - networking.Zimkhita Buwa, board member of Silicon Cape, AfricArenas host ecosystem, had the following to say; as an organisation committed to tech entrepreneurship we could not be more thrilled to support AfricArena as the first major tech event to take place live this year post Covid-19 lockdown, with its innovative hybrid approach. This event is key for entrepreneurs across the continent both for fundraising efforts and for investors' dealflow and community work.Christophe Viarnaud, founder of AfricArena added, More than ever in a COVID-19 world, human connections - whether in person or virtual - are critical to business growth and investments. Relationships are built on trust and we are delighted to innovate once again with a very solid set of technology tools in the form of AfricArena Air and with other services which will be announced soon. We continue to strive towards contributing to the business of African tech entrepreneurs and investors. We look forward to hosting our guests physically and digitally in afew weeks.For more, go to www.africarena.com WATERLOO REGION A new survey of front-line workers around the world has found many dont feel prepared to do their jobs and dont trust their employers ability to deliver the training they need during the global coronavirus pandemic. The survey of 2,000 employees from a range of industries including retail, grocery and professional sales was conducted in July and August for local tech company Axonify, which specializes in delivering front-line employee training. About 71 per cent said their employer had provided timely information about its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but only 48 per cent reported that they had been provided training when taking on new roles or tasks during the pandemic and 39 per cent dont feel prepared to do their job properly in the current environment. And while survey respondents were located in the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia, Axonify CEO Carol Leaman told The Record their experiences are transferable to workers in Canada. Absolutely in Canada we share many of these same work experiences, she said. And grocery or retail employees are falling even further behind compared to other front-line workers, she said. Only about 52 per cent for retail and 50 per cent for grocery workers said they had received regular training. Leaman said companies need to make proper training a priority to ensure employees feel empowered to do their jobs and to do them effectively, especially during a pandemic. The things they do and dont do on the front lines every day matter a whole lot. Equipping them to confidently do the right things is critical, said Leaman. The survey results also dont take into effect the so-called second wave of coronavirus cases that are now on the rise, especially in Ontario. This province set a new high this past week for single-day new cases with 700 announced last Monday, and Ontario could hit 1,000 new daily cases by later this month. Leaman said companies had a window of forgiveness for being unprepared when the pandemic first hit. That window has closed. With a second wave, workers and customers will be less tolerant and expect employers to be well equipped to train employees for the challenges ahead, she said. A statement from the office of Monte McNaughton, Ontarios Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, said he has been laser focused on workplace health and safety throughout the pandemic. Since March 11, the ministry has conducted more than 21,100 health and safety investigations and inspections related to COVID-19, and issued more than 18,700 orders and requirements. The government passed legislation giving eligible workers protected leave from their jobs for issues related to COVID-19, such as waiting for test results or to take care of a child who is sick or needs to self-isolate. The government also recently announced it is hiring 98 new inspectors, and released 198 specific health and safety guidance documents and resources to help employers and employees stop the spread of COVID-19. We understand this a challenging time for many workers and businesses, but it is imperative that we all continue working together to stop the spread of COVID-19, the statement said. Leaman said the government and employers should work toward making supports for workers permanent even after the pandemic ends, since the crisis has underlined just how valuable and vulnerable many front-line workers are. If front-line workers are our heroes now, they dont suddenly shed their capes when the pandemic threat eases, she said. They deserve meaningful, enduring support, now and forever. Lenders are staring at a massive exercise in recalculating loan dues following a government proposal to waive compound interest during the loan moratorium, even as they work on restructuring vast amounts of stressed loans under central bank supervision. If the Supreme Court accepts the government proposal, banks and financial institutions will have to rework millions of equated monthly instalments (EMI) for the moratorium period. As the proposal will also apply to those who did not use the moratorium, ways must be devised to compensate them as well. This will be a mammoth exercise, considering another exercise of debt recast is already underway and has to be finalized by 31 December. Lenders will have to segregate the normal interest and the interest on interest for the waiver, which at present is woven into the monthly repayment amount," a private sector banker said. To be sure, what is being proposed is not an interest waiver, but applies to interest on the interest that accumulates in case of delayed repayment. Analysts estimate that the exercise will cost the government 5,000-7,000 crore, assuming that no more than 40% of the overall loans will be eligible for relief. To bring in parity between a borrower who availed of the moratorium and one who didnt, a notional amount of interest on interest will need to be reduced from the principal amount outstanding against the borrower who didnt avail the moratorium," said Anil Gupta, vice-president at Icra Ltd. Since the government will bear the cost of the waiver, the rating agency expects the impact to be minimal on the profitability of lenders. The government affidavit on waiver of interest on interest for loan under moratorium is a welcome step. It incentivizes borrowers who have not availed moratorium. But the devil is always in the detail, which is still not out. If the Supreme Court accepts the governments petition, then we may see a broad-based rally in the banking stocks," said Asutosh Mishra, head of research, Ashika Stock Broking Ltd. There are some concerns over timely reimbursements from the government. Typically, in the case of farm loan waivers, state governments reimburse banks between a few months to even a year. The time value of money will be lost by the time the government reimburses. Of course, we will not take a hit on accounting books," said the banker cited above. Eight sectors will benefit from the governments proposalmicro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), education loans, housing, consumer durables, credit card dues, auto loans, personal and professional loans, and consumption loans. Some bankers are perplexed that while the government said the waiver is for vulnerable borrowers, it applies to personal loans, credit card dues and even consumer durables of up to 2 crore. Its not clear what the intent is, considering a consumer durable loan of 2 crore is something one does not come across that often. However, MSMEs deserve the relief as covid has hit them quite hard," a public sector banker said. The Centre said the new burden would constrain its abilities in pandemic management. Bearing the cost of paying interest on interest, it told the court, would naturally have an impact on several other pressing commitments being faced by the nation, including meeting direct costs associated with pandemic management, addressing basic needs of common man and mitigating problems arising out of the loss of livelihoods." Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics Torres said she feels lucky and honored to be a part of the 3Arts family. Currently working on a series of paintings centered on chronic pain, shes also gearing up to helm an upcoming online conversation series that aims to educate and advocate for greater accessibility for creators and audiences in the film community. As executive director of Backbones, a nonprofit serving people with spinal cord injuries, Torres' 2019 collaborative project Tres Fridas Project: Reimagining Art Through the Disability Lens wouldnt have materialized had it not been for 3Arts. Torres hopes to use her award money for her art. Girls Basketball: Watertown drops home games to No. 4 Rapid City Stevens, No. 5 Rapid City Central Watertown High Schools girls basketball team lost to fifth-rated Class AA Rapid City Central 43-24 on Saturday and to fourth-rated Rapid City Stevens 50-29 on Friday in non-conference games played in the Civic Arena. In South Korea, the first cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection were identified in January 2020. By April 2020, the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases went up to 10,683 infections, and 237 people had died of the disease. A large percentage of the cases and deaths were a result of superspreader events in the Daegu-Gyeongsangbuk province. At the start of the outbreak, public health authorities raised the infectious disease alert to 3, the highest level in South Korea. Subsequently, increased screening and testing through drive-through screening centers and COVID-19 testing facilities at private hospitals were implemented. In April 2020, social distancing measures implemented in March were relaxed as the COVID-19 epidemic in South Korea had come under control. Although some studies examined how public health interventions can help contain COVID-19 outbreaks, not much information was available on public health measures against SARS-CoV-2 transmission, specifically in South Korea. Analyzing COVID-19 transmission outside the Daegu-Gyeongsangbuk province Researchers from the Konyang University College of Medicine, South Korea, and The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, analyzed the transmission of COVID-19 outside of the Daegu-Gyeongsangbuk provincial region in South Korea, in a recent study published in the CDCs Emerging Infectious Diseases journal. The team estimated the transmissibility of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and determined the impact of public health measures implemented outside the Daegu-Gyeongsangbuk province in South Korea. The researchers collected local health data from the city or provincial public health departments. Gathered data included the source of infection, the date of exposure, and date of onset of illness along with contact history and age and sex of patients. Their analysis was restricted to regions in South Korea outside the Daegu-Gyeongsangbuk provincial region. Over the 3-month study period - January 20 to April 21, 2020 - data for 2,023 cases were collected, which covered about 98% of the 2,066 cases reported by the South Korea Ministry of Health and Welfare. They analyzed the time between the onset of illness and lab confirmation for 818 symptomatic case-patients. Data for 181 patients, whose precise contact history with other confirmed cases were known, were analyzed so as to estimate the incubation period. They identified 44 infection clusters and 79 case-patients who were exposed to only 1 index case-patient among the clusters. To determine the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions used in South Korea, the team estimated a real-time measure of transmission intensity, the instantaneous effective reproduction number (Rt), from daily onset of cases, and their estimated serial interval distribution. Daily Rt estimates were presented from February 16, 2020, as stable estimates of Rt were not available owing to low number of confirmed cases. Non-pharmaceutical measures reduced transmission without lockdown A combination of non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as improved screening, quarantine of suspected and confirmed cases, and social distancing measures, were enforced in South Korea over time. The results of the study suggest that these interventions, even in the absence of a lockdown, helped reduce the transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 outside the Daegu-Gyeongsangbuk provincial region. The findings suggest that non-pharmaceutical interventions used in South Korea during the early phase of the COVID-19 outbreak reduced virus transmissibility contained the spread of the virus in the local community. They estimated that non-pharmaceutical measures reduced transmission by about 34% without imposing a strict lockdown in the province. They also found that in order to optimize epidemic control, continuous efforts are needed to monitor the transmissibility of COVID19. The researchers, however, warn that South Korea could still be susceptible to further epidemic waves or outbreaks. Since the infection can still be imported from overseas by travelers, ongoing monitoring of the reproductive number is required to gather relevant data that will help policymakers implement measures to control a potential second wave of COVID-19 in South Korea. Our results suggest that those interventions, without a lockdown, reduced the transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 in regions outside of the Daegu-Gyeongsangbuk provincial region, in South Korea. Limitations of the study The study also has some limitations. Large clusters reported as superspreaders were not included in the analysis of SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility changes. Also, there may be undetected cases that were not part of the study, which could mislead the actual trends of infections in the specific population. The estimations in the study were based on self-reported data, which are prone to reporting bias. Since government-generated data were not available, they used data from online case reports, which might have caused inaccuracies in the information used in the analyses. "Take an hour to save a life. That was the self-proclaimed motto of Jack Miller, an Auburn resident and lifelong American Red Cross blood donor and volunteer. Jack passed away in July, leaving behind his loving wife and family. To honor Jacks legacy of community giving, the Red Cross will hold a blood drive from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15, at the Auburn United Methodist Church, 99 South St., Auburn. During this uncertain time, the Red Cross needs the ongoing support of blood donors now, and in the weeks ahead, to ensure blood products are available for patients when they need it. As a thank you, all who come to donate will receive a free SaveAround coupon book and a special giveaway in Jacks honor. Jack began donating blood as a college student at the University of Pennsylvania, and continued to give throughout his adult life. In his retirement, he became a volunteer with the Cayuga County Red Cross blood services team while continuing his personal dedication to rolling up a sleeve to help others. In June 2000, after 52 years and 340 units donated, Jack learned he needed a daily medication that would defer him indefinitely from giving blood. Jack viewed this as simply another door opening. That same year, he turned his time and tireless efforts toward managing a monthly blood drive held at the Auburn United Methodist Church. This special drive soon became known as Jacks drive, the output of which he proudly grew by more than double, consistently averaging 100 donors or more and impacting tens of thousands of lives over the years. When I think about Jack, it brings a smile to my face. I can still see him with one of his many Red Cross T-shirts on, which he wore with such pride, said Roberta Kryk, a Red Cross account manager in Rochester. The Oct. 15 blood drive will take place where Jacks drive happened monthly for nearly two decades. In honor of his stewardship of the Red Cross lifesaving mission, Jacks family and drive organizers are aiming to collect 100 units of blood for patients in need. To support social distancing, appointments are strongly encouraged by visiting redcrossblood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or using the Blood Donor App. Over the years, Jack built a resume of accolades, including Volunteer of the Year (2001-2002), Individual Outstanding Contributions Award (2004), Blood Services Volunteer Award and Real Heroes Blood Donor Award (2013). Jacks commitment to the local blood donors and hospital recipients is well-known and respected by many. His personal touch and sense of caring paired with a tenacious spirit made him a shining star in our Red Cross family, and he will be greatly missed said Shawn OHargan, regional market manager, American Red Cross Blood Services. The Miller family has asked that, in addition to giving the gift of life on Oct. 15, any contributions in Jacks memory be made to the American Red Cross, 825 John St., West Henrietta, NY 14586 (Memo: "In Memory of Jack Miller"). Katie Potter is regional external communications manager for the American Red Cross Biomedical Services. For more information, call (315) 234-2200 or visit redcross.org. Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 1 Sad 0 Angry 0 When Toronto City Council voted to make the Bloor Street Bike Lane Pilot permanent in 2017, it was data that guided its hand toward the yes button. The bike lane project had been highly polarizing, with many on city council and across the city holding strong preconceived notions about whether it was Gods gift or the end of the world. In order to reach a consensus agreement, the city gathered and shared data about travel times, retail sales and cyclist volumes that was inarguably trustworthy, comprehensive and largely inscrutable. Councillors may have wanted to call the project a failure, but the statistics wouldnt let them. This example should be instructive when it comes to Torontos efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Seven months into the pandemic, data should be embraced and wielded as a vitally important tool to inform and guide public behaviour. But right now, were failing on that front. As it stands, Canadians have been inundated with only one piece of data, the daily record of infections and hospitalizations that once again show our trend line curving upward. But where and how people are getting infected is not well communicated, and as the social and economic impact of the pandemic wears on peoples well-being and their patience, this data should be prioritized as one of the best ways to beat the disease into submission. There are growing calls for more transparent information about infection sources, but a recent National Post story about the lack of this data indicated that point of infection is not a current field in the provincial contact tracing database. This is an issue but it is not an excuse. Data systems are built by human hands and can and should be adapted, improved and augmented over time, with privacy maintained as a core absolute. The field of probable infection point can easily be added, not just as something we record to the best of our ability, but as retroactive information that can fill out our understanding of how the virus has spread over time. Provincial data bases should be regularly cut for this source of infection field, and shared publicly to guide public behaviour and inform government interventions. It can demonstrate whether people face the most risk at workplaces, private gatherings or other activities. Without this information, public trust and adherence to government guidance will continue to decline. There is no excuse for not providing this data, including a lack of resources. There are talented data minds within the city government who should be seconded immediately and the talent of the Canadian technology sector can also be harnessed. Improving contact tracing and data entry could be a jobs program as well. Barbados recently outlined a plan to push the unemployed into paid roles that would help enforce social distancing in schools and long-term care facilities. A similar jobs program here could conscript people into paying roles. But while other jurisdictions use data to their advantage, the City of Toronto is still relying on press statements and the odd infographic. This anecdotal response does not engender trust and will not shift behaviour because it is inherently suspect and incomplete. Toronto has used data effectively in the past, but not without an intentional strategy, a plan and a commitment to ongoing adaptation and strong management. When businesses complained during the King Street Transit Priority Project, Moneris retail data belied the claim. If people complained that their drives were longer, vehicle travel times indicated that no substantial delays were occurring. Like Bloor St., this pilot would not have succeeded if the data measurement was not robust, well managed and well communicated. When our country realized that masks were required to help stop the spread of COVID-19, our industries quickly retooled to produce the necessary equipment and the public embraced the behaviour . Data, too, is a tool in our arsenal to fight this disease, and we should understand it as such, retool our machinery and start spreading useful, verified information that can help save lives and livelihoods. ATLANTA, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Georgia Power has partnered with the nonprofit organization Voices for Georgia's Children for the seventh consecutive year to celebrate Pre-K Week across the state. Unlike previous years, this year's tenth annual celebration will be completely virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although virtual, elected officials including the Governor, business and community leaders, as well as Georgia Power representatives will read to students throughout the week. Georgia Power is also unveiling a new children's book, Look Now, Wonder, Wow, during Georgia Pre-K Week. The book is part of the company's Learning Power program; a statewide education initiative focused on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) subjects and designed to bring energy education to the classroom. "Reading programs such as Georgia Pre-K week help provide the building blocks to academic success, and this special week raises awareness of the importance of quality early education in our state," said Joseph Lillyblad, Georgia Power education and workforce development manager. "Georgia Power is committed to supporting literacy and STEM-based programs throughout the state to help ensure the brightest possible future for its citizens." Last year Georgia Power education coordinators engaged with more than 4,000 students to bring literacy and STEM activities to the classroom during the month of October. "This year's support by Georgia Power, and other public and private organizations, sends an especially powerful statement: quality early education is essential, even in a virtual environment," said Dr. Erica Fener Sitkoff, Executive Director of Voices for Georgia's Children. "For seven years, Georgia Power has played a vital role in raising awareness in the importance of a solid start for the state's youngest learners." Georgia Power's Learning Power Program Georgia Power is in classrooms across the state all year long, not just during Pre-K Week. In fact, Georgia Power's Learning Power program has reached more than 790,000 plus students in grades Pre-K through High School since its inception in 2011. Through the program, education coordinators visit Georgia schools to present hands-on, STEM-related energy and energy efficiency lessons that reinforce Georgia Standards of Excellence and make students, educators and parents aware of energy and efficiency opportunities and careers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Learning Power is offering virtual lessons. For more information visit www.learningpower.org. About Georgia Power Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America's premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company's promise to 2.6 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is consistently recognized by J.D. Power and Associates as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power). SOURCE Georgia Power Related Links www.georgiapower.com Xtalks Life Science Webinars Even less complex NGS cases can take experts 12 hours to analyze adding over $500 of costs to every analysis. Realizing the potential of precision medicine relies on accurate and efficient diagnoses. However, even less complex NGS cases can take experts 12 hours to analyze adding over $500 of costs to every analysis. Alongside this, 71 percent of clinical laboratories report that they are nearly or completely at capacity. Increasing case throughput and reducing interpretation time are therefore essential. In this webinar, the panelist will demonstrate how Congenica Automation can enable complex genomic data interpretation, including classification, evidence and reporting in as little as five minutes. Join Helen Savage, DipRCPath, Deputy Head of Clinical Services, Congenica in a live webinar on Monday, October 19, 2020 at 11am EDT (4pm BST/UK). For more information or to register for this event, visit Accelerating the Identification of Genetic Diseases. ABOUT XTALKS Xtalks, powered by Honeycomb Worldwide Inc., is a leading provider of educational webinars to the global life science, food and medical device community. Every year thousands of industry practitioners (from life science, food and medical device companies, private & academic research institutions, healthcare centers, etc.) turn to Xtalks for access to quality content. Xtalks helps Life Science professionals stay current with industry developments, trends and regulations. Xtalks webinars also provide perspectives on key issues from top industry thought leaders and service providers. To learn more about Xtalks visit http://xtalks.com For information about hosting a webinar visit http://xtalks.com/why-host-a-webinar/ In this article we take a look at the 30 most polluted cities in the United States. Click to skip ahead and jump to the 10 most polluted cities in the U.S. When comparing cities or regions on their pollution levels, there are several things that need to be considered. First off, cities can be considered polluted from several different angles and aspects. While water bodies surrounding urban cities can get polluted due to discharges or waste disposal, the major factor that affects the daily life of citizens is air pollution. The denser the population of the cities, the higher the level of air pollution tends to rise due to the large amounts of emissions constantly being released into the air, making it unbreathable and detrimental to health and life expectancy. The absolute pollution figures might point at the US being one of the top polluters in the world, with over 5,145.2 million tons of carbon emissions according to the 2019 BP Statistical Review of World Energy. However, if we look at the air quality of the cities it might seem cleaner than most cities in other parts of the world. This is so because when we compare the livability of cities, it is largely also dependent on the density of population and also the concentration levels of pollutants. While most cities in the US might be emitting greater amounts of air pollutants, owing to the heavy industrialized economy, the concentration levels might be lower compared to its counterparts owing to the large area that the country is spread across. Air quality also, does not just include CO2 emissions, but largely consists of particulate matter, which is what majorly causes health implications like respiratory diseases, or weakened heart or lung functioning due to prolonged exposure. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) specified AQI (Air Quality Index) is the best yardstick to measure the level of pollution in the air of a certain region. The major pollutants that are considered in the AQI are Ground level ozone, Carbon monoxide, Sulfur dioxide, Nitrogen dioxide and airborne particles. The higher the AQI figures the greater is the air pollution while anything over 200 AQI is considered to be unhealthy air as stated by EPA. Story continues Air pollution is largely attributable to particulate matter which includes a mix of dust, soot, smoke and liquid particles or aerosols. It is a major determinant of air quality and a major irritant present in the air. Fine particulate matter is what causes major health hazards to citizens , while reducing visibility when in high concentration in the air. According to WHO, prolonged exposure to PM2.5 can increase long-term risk of cardiopulmonary mortality by 613% per 10 g/m3 of PM2.5 (810). The Improving Knowledge and Communication for Decision-making on Air Pollution and Health (Aphekom) in Europe was conducted to understand the implications on average life expectancy if PM 2.5 in polluted cities could be brought down as per WHO recommendations. Among the 25 participating European countries, it was observed that they averaged at 10g/m3 and residents could live 20 months longer on an average if PM 2.5 levels were perfect. Los Angeles has a PM 2.5 level of 11. Los Angeles residents could live an average of approximately 1 month longer, if their PM 2.5 is reduced to 10 and also could live nearly a year longer if the air quality were perfect. Given this, a measure of Fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) present in the air is a good focus to determine the level of pollution in a certain region. As EPA produces a comprehensive track record of different air pollutants that affect individual cities, we have based our rankings on this Air Quality Trends Data and have ranked cities according to the level of PM 2.5 level measured in Wtd AM (g/m3) for each of these cities. Other coarse particles or PM10 can also be a cause of irritations and health complications and are majorly released from activities on construction sites, or mining. We have therefore reported PM10 for each of the cities that appear on our rankings as well. 25 Most Polluted Cities in the US in 2017 Kekyalyaynen / Shutterstock.com Population can be a major contributor too, and cities with greater population can often be greater emitters. We can therefore see some of the cities in our rankings also featuring in the 50 Most Populated Cities in the US. Air pollution has been a major cause of concern for most big cities with unexpected increases in fine dust situations and smog in the recent past. And, even though 2020 has seen a sudden drop in air pollution levels owing to the pandemic, it might be just a temporary respite and chances are that the levels might shoot right up as soon as economic activities get ready to bounce back in action. Pollutants in the air can also be a major contributor to climate change. But also, in the recent California wildfires we have witnessed how climate change and environmental factors can in fact lead to sudden increase in air pollution levels as well. It can be easily inferred that air pollution and climate change are quite closely related. With the talks increasing around Climate Change and the clocks ticking for major nations to get to net zero emissions , lets take a look at the problem areas and pinpoint the focus on the cities that need attention for their less than favorable air quality conditions. 30. Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO PM 2.5 - 10 PM 10 - 111 While Denver average yearly AQI is at 34 and meets healthy air standards, it fails to meet the thresholds for PM2.5. Particularly in winter months, the city experiences pollution swings that makes it one of the most polluted cities in the US. Pixabay/Public Domain 29. Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR PM 2.5 - 10.3 PM 10 - 38 Little Rock area has a moderate level of air pollution with major pollutants being PM2.5 at 10.3 and Ozone that averages at 68 g/m. 28.Birmingham-Hoover, AL PM 2.5 - 10.4 PM 10 - 106 The city has often experienced high levels of Ozone pollution and has therefore had unhealthy air conditions. The PM.25 and PM 10 level have been over threshold as well. Pixabay / Public Domain 27. St. Louis, MO-IL PM 2.5 - 10.5 PM 10 - 99 St. Louis pollution levels are slightly higher than the limits specified by WHO and therefore poses risks in the long-term. PM 2.5 and PM 10 are the main pollutants. www.schmanke.com 26. Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN PM 2.5 - 10.5 PM 10 - 40 While Jefferson County had been one of 50 counties across the country that failed to meet federal health standards for fine particle pollution from 2011 to 2013, EPA has recently noted a significant improvement in air quality in the area. The area now meets the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) for sulfur dioxide set to protect public health. 25. Klamath Falls, OR PM 2.5 - 10.5 PM 10 - 58 Klamath Falls has had a prolonged problem with particulate pollution owing to its topography. Air quality can be largely affected during fire season and impacted greatly by fire smoke. 24. Modesto, CA PM 2.5 - 10.6 PM 10 - 104 The pollution levels in Modesto are often concerning and touch the unhealthy level. While PM 2.5 hovers around 10.6 , it can reach a 114 g/m especially towards the end of the year. area, bakery, bay, business, california, carlos, chain, editorial, enterprise, food, foods, frozen, groceries, liquor, lucky, meat, neighborhood, only, pharmacy, san, seafood, jejim / Shutterstock.com 23. Shreveport-Bossier City, LA PM 2.5 - 10.7 PM 10 - 44 While particle pollution is still a concern in the area, Shreveport fares nicely in the ozone pollution category and also experiences clean air and a favorable AQI. Most Polluted Cities in the United States 22. McAllen-Mission, TX PM 2.5 - 10.7 PM 10 - 50 While pollutants level remain low to moderate throughout the year in the area, the PM2.5 level still poses a concern at 10.7 and hence finds a rank among the most polluted cities in the US. Pixabay/Public Domain 21. Laredo, TX PM 2.5 - 10.7 PM 10 - 48 Laredo, TX experience average to low AQI conditions across the year. Ozone andPM 2.5 comprise of the main pollutants. 20.Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX PM 2.5 - 10.7 PM 10 - 63 Even though Houstons pollution conditions have been on the improving trends, there is still way to go to attain EPAs standards. Despite a population rise in the recent past, the area has majorly been able to tackle its pollution levels. Most Ethnically Diverse Cities in America 19. El Centro, CA PM 2.5 - 10.7 PM 10 - 162 The area experiences high ozone days and high levels of particle pollution with AQI often dipping below favorable. San Leandro, CA David Brimm/Shutterstock.com 18.Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC PM 2.5 - 10.7 PM 10 - 25 While the area ranks higher in 24 hour particle pollution, initiatives have been working in its favor. Augusta has also had no high ozone days in the recent past. States with the Best Roads in America Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com 17. Cleveland-Elyria, OH PM 2.5 - 10.8 PM 10 - 79 Cleveland ranks highly on the pollution levels, and soot and smoke particles in the air are a major cause of concern. Dirtiest Cities in America Henryk Sadura/Shutterstock.com 16. Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI PM 2.5 - 10.8 PM 10 - 73 The region has reported over 100 days of moderate pollution levels and poor air quality in 2018. Higher levels of ground level ozone and particle pollution has been concerning. Pixabay/Public Domain 15.Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA PM 2.5 - 10.8 PM 10 - 40 The region experiences favorable days, however, the pollution levels remain moderately high on an average through the year. 15 Highest Paying Cities for Teachers Pixabay/Public Domain 14. Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ PM 2.5 - 10.9 PM 10 - 990 Air quality is often poor in the region, with high levels of pollutants. The PM10 levels are high and the region experienced 110 days of poor air quality in 2016. airport, phoenix, arizona, traffic, air, control, view, aerial, sky, dawn, harbor, tower, usa, travel, built, night, skyline, southwest, sonoran, runway, building, architecture, city, Anton Foltin/Shutterstock.com 13. New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA PM 2.5 - 11 PM 10 - 34 The overall area has experienced over 96 days of poor air quality in 2016, however, recent trends have shown significant decrease in pollutants in New York during the COVID 19 pandemic. Pixabay/Public Domain 12. Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA PM 2.5 - 11 PM 10 - 159 Los Angeles has average pollution levels , while maximum pollution levels over a year are greater than the maximum limit specified by WHO. Smog is a major issue that the region faces. Most Ethnically Diverse Cities in America 11. Fresno, CA PM 2.5 - 11.2 PM 10 - 234 Air Quality touches very low levels in Fresno, and respiratory issues like asthma is common in the region. Click to continue reading and see the 10 most polluted cities in America. Disclosure: 30 Most Polluted Cities in the US is originally published at Insider Monkey. Real Housewives Of Orange County star Braunwyn Windham-Burke's marital and family life has been at the center of marital and family life speculation last week after some cryptic social media posts. But now the reality star is boasting about her 'modern marriage' in paradise. The 42-year-old shared a steamy snap of herself cuddled up to her husband Sean Burke - whom she shares seven children with - in a pool while on vacation in Puerto Rico. 'Modern marriage': Braunwyn Windham-Burke shared a steamy snap of herself cuddled up to her husband Sean Burke - whom she shares seven children with - in a pool while on vacation in Puerto Rico This came just days after rampant speculation surrounding her family time including one in which her daughter Rowan captioned an Instagram post, 'F***. You. Mom.' In the pool snap, Braunwyn could be seen wearing a pink bikini as she touched faces with her husband since 2000. She captioned the image 'modern marriage' which may be a reference to their 'monumental birthday' tradition of having threesomes. Last year Braunwyn opened up on The Real Housewives Of Orange County After Show after making the revelation during a group trip to Mexico on the Bravo show. Interesting: This came just days after rampant speculation surrounding her family time including one in which her daughter Rowan captioned an Instagram post, 'F***. You. Mom' Loved up: She captioned the image 'modern marriage' which may be a reference to their 'monumental birthday' tradition of having threesomes 'It started with his 35th birthday,' Braunwyn said referencing her 47-year-old husband Sean. A producer during her joint interview with Shannon Beador, 56, pressed for more details, but Braunwyn declined as she said: 'Oh, no. I will never tell those stories.' 'I'm pretty sure it was before the Internet, so there's no photographic proof,' she added. Braunwyn, however, when asked by Shannon confirmed that she knew the other woman beforehand and they still remain friends. Baring it all: She share this snap of herself naked by the balcony of their hotel room The producer then asked Braunwyn if the threesome was planned or spontaneous. Braunwyn after a long pause replied, 'I think it was kind of assumed. Some things had been happening'. After the post from her daughter last week, Braunwyn took to Instagram Stories to request privacy amid the family crisis. 'Our family asks for your understanding as we work through some challenging circumstances,' Braunwyn said. '45 million Americans will experience mental health issues. This effects almost every family, and ours is no different. The latest: After the post from her daughter last week, Braunwyn took to Instagram Stories to request privacy amid the family crisis 'We will share with you more when the time is right. We kindly ask for your grace and kindness, and thank everyone for their support.' Braunwyn and husband Sean Burke are parents of seven kids: Jacob, Bella, Rowan, Koa, Hazel and twins Caden and Curran. The Newport Beach native also had put up a shot that referenced co-parenting, when split parents coordinate to take care of their children. The repost read, 'New to the coparenting world? It doesnt have to suck. It wont feel like this forever. You just need some perspective Knowing what to expect will save your sanity.' Telling? Her daughter Rowan captioned an Instagram post, 'F***. You. Mom.' After the post, Braunwyn took to Instagram Stories to request privacy amid the family crisis Braunwyn, who has been married to Burke since 2000, captioned the post with a link to a Zoom session with Michelle Dempsey, who is a divorce specialist. Braunwyn last year said on the RHOC aftershow that she and Burke - who initially tied the knot in 2000 - had temporarily separated after she'd cheated on him. 'We fought for our family because Sean and I almost got divorced ... I cheated on Sean,' she said. 'We separated. I took the kids. He was with someone else too. 'We were separated, we were in two different homes. I went to Hawaii; I took the kids, I enrolled them in school. I told Sean I was done. I just didnt want to be a single mom anymore. He traveled 25 days a month.' Big family: She and husband Sean Burke, who are parents of seven kids, have been married since 2000 Braunwyn said that months later, the relationship came together again when he 're-proposed' to her and refocused on his family life. 'He had quit his job,' she said. 'He was the president of a very successful company. He sold his shares and he walked away and he became a stay-at-home dad for like eight years. He said, "I would rather choose you guys than my work."' Braunwyn appears on the Bravo show with castmates Shannon Storms Beador, Kelly Dodd, Gina Kirschenheiter, Emily Simpson and newcomer Elizabeth Lyn Vargas. The Real Housewives of Orange County's 15th season commences October 14 on Bravo at 9/8c. The San Francisco Police Department is asking the public to share any information they have regarding a 19-year-old woman who was reported missing on Oct. 2. Sydney West who goes by "Syd" was last seen on the morning of Sept. 30 at Crissy Field near Golden Gate Bridge. She hasn't been in contact with friends or family since and is "considered at risk due to depression," according to a statement from SFPD. If it is going to happen, it will happen in the next four weeks. At the start of every October, investors and traders can be forgiven for already feeling a little uneasy. Traditionally, it is the month for a stockmarket collapse. With valuations already sky-high, a contested election looming, key vaccine data on a knife-edge, and with the virus resurgent around the world, there were already plenty of reasons to feel nervous. Now, with President Trump testing positive for COVID-19, it promises to be a wild ride. In truth, however, Trump's positive test won't be the trigger for a full-scale collapse. If he suffers mild symptoms, it won't make much difference either way. If he goes into intensive care, then either the more moderate vice-president Mike Pence steps in, or else Joe Biden wins, with an expansionary fiscal programme, while the civil unrest a Trump second term might spark will be avoided. Trump's COVID-19 diagnosis gives markets another reason to be nervous this October. Credit:Twitter Either way, the markets and the economy won't move dramatically in either direction. There was a strong rally in equities after Trump was elected, but neither his illness, nor his re-election or defeat, will have anything like the same impact. It might be the autumnal weather, the approach of the year-end, or else a sheer coincidence but October has always been the month of maximum risk for investors. In stock market terminology, the phenomenon even has its own name, the "October effect", referring to the fact that the 10th month of the year typically witnesses a worse performance than any other (although September is bad as well). A suicide car bomber targeted the convoy of a provincial governor in eastern Afghanistan on Monday, killing at least 8 people, including four civilians, government officials said. The condition of the governor, Rahmatullah Yarmal, was not immediately known and officials would not confirm local reports that he was slightly wounded in the bombing in Laghman province. The governor's spokesman, Asadullah Dawlatzai, said only that along with the eight fatalities, about 30 people _ both military and civilians _ were wounded in the attack, which took place in Mihterlam, the provincial capital. Tareq Arian, spokesman for the Interior Ministry, said that four civilians and four of Yarmal's bodyguards were killed. The wounded included 28 civilians and two other guards. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the attack but both the Islamic State group and the Taliban are active in the area. Both militant groups have carried out attacks in the past against Afghan government representatives, national security and defense personnel, and civilians. Representatives of the Afghan government and the Taliban are holding intra-Afghan negotiations in Qatar, a Mideast country where the Taliban have had a political office for many years. The negotiations are meant to end the country's decades-long long war, following a U.S.-Taliban peace deal signed in February in Doha, Qatar's capital. Search Keywords: Short link: Price band has been revised to Rs 116-120 per share from Rs 117-120 set earlier. The initial public offer (IPO) of Likhitha Infrastructure received bids for 4.29 crore shares on Thursday, 1 October 2020, as against 51 lakh shares on offer, as per the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) website data. The issue was subscribed 8.43 times. The issue opened for bidding on Tuesday, 29 September 2020. It was set to close on 1 October 2020. However, due to weak participation from the qualified institutional buyers (QIBs), the IPO was extended till 7 October 2020. The company also revised its price band to Rs 116-120 from Rs 117-120 set earlier. As on 1 October 2020, the portion allotted to the QIBs was subscribed only 45%. The response from retail investors was robust, and the portion reserved for them was subscribed 21.13 times. The non-institutional investors category was subscribed 5.39 times. The public issue comprised a fresh issue of 51 lakh equity shares, representing 25.86% of post issue paid up equity. The company proposes to utilize the IPO proceeds towards meeting the working capital requirements (Rs 47 crore), general corporate purposes and issue expenses. The company recorded sales of Rs 161.24 crore and profit after tax of Rs 19.88 crore in the year ended on 31 March 2020. Likhitha Infrastructure (LIL) is an oil & gas pipeline infrastructure service provider in India. Its operations include three principal business lines: (i) cross country pipelines and associated facilities; (ii) city gas distribution including CNG stations; and (iii) operation & maintenance of CNG/PNG services. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) 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 included Historylink.org, Roslyn, a Towns Portrait by Wayne F. Larrabee Jr., Washington Rural Heritage, Columbia, the Magazine of Northwest History, The Inflation Calculator created by Morgan Friedman, the Washington Rural Heritage collection and the archives of the Yakima Herald-Republic. First Lady, Rebecca Akufo-Addo has asked voters in Okaikoi South to vote massively for the NPP Parliamentary Candidate in the constituency, Dakoa Newman. She made this call at a mini-rally after she had presented some items to the Kaneshie Polyclinic. The First Lady's campaign tour also took her to the Ga Mantse Palace where she officially introduced Darkoa Newman to Dr. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, Ga Mantse. About Dakoa Newman Madam Dakoa Newman who rose from being a polling station women organizer to a parliamentary candidate has promised to provide jobs for the youth in her constituency She is an old student of Wesley Girls Senior High School, Cape Coast and holds a Political Science Degree from the University of Ghana, Legon as well as a Master's Degree in Programme and Project management from the University of Warwick, United Kingdom. Dakoa Newman also holds professional certificates in project management and also risk management from the Project Management Institute, USA. Source: Rebecca Addo Tetteh/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The companies will leverage the newly developed Hino XL Series chassis with Toyota's proven fuel cell technology to deliver exceptional capability without harmful emissions. This collaboration expands upon the existing effort to develop a 25-ton FCET for the Japanese market which was announced earlier this year. The initial demonstration vehicle is expected to arrive in the first half of 2021. "A fuel cell powered version of the Hino XL Series is a win-win for both customers and the community. It will be quiet, smooth and powerful while emitting nothing but water," said Tak Yokoo, senior executive engineer, Toyota Research and Development. "Toyota's twenty plus years of fuel cell technology combined with Hino's heavy-duty truck experience will create an innovative and capable product." "Expanding upon our proud heritage of the Hino powertrain, Toyota fuel cell technology offers our customers a commercially viable, extended range, zero emissions vehicle in the near term," said Glenn Ellis, Hino's Senior Vice President Customer Experience. "Hino shares a common focus with Toyota when it comes to durability, reliability, and innovation with the customer at the center of design which makes this collaboration a game changer." About Toyota Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. and North America for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands. During that time, Toyota has created a tremendous value chain as our teams have contributed to world-class design, engineering, and assembly of more than 40 million cars and trucks in North America, where we have 14 manufacturing plants, 15 including our joint venture in Alabama (10 in the U.S.), and directly employ more than 47,000 people (over 36,000 in the U.S.). Our 1,800 North American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in the U.S.) sold nearly 2.8 million cars and trucks (nearly 2.4 million in the U.S.) in 2019. Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic and governmental organizations to address our society's most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, visit www.toyotanewsroom.com. About Hino Hino Trucks, a Toyota Group Company, assembles, sells, and services a lineup of Class 4-8 diesel commercial trucks in the United States. Hino Trucks is the premier heavy & medium duty nameplate in the United States with a product lineup that offers fully connected vehicles with low total cost of ownership, superior fuel economy, unmatched reliability and maneuverability and the most comprehensive bundle of standard features in the market. Headquartered in Novi, Michigan, Hino has a network of over 230 dealers nationwide committed to achieving excellence in customer service and support. Learn more about Hino Trucks at http://www.hino.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube Media Contacts: Ed Hellwig 469-292-1165 [email protected] Dominik Beckman 248-699-9391 [email protected] SOURCE Toyota Motor North America G -A-Y owner Jeremy Joseph has mounted a legal challenge against the 10pm curfew, claiming the latest measures make absolutely no sense. Joseph is the latest figure to criticise the requirements put in place on September 24, which mean pubs, bars and restaurants have to have guests out by 10pm. The club owner claims the measures make a scapegoat of the night time economy and are "unsafe" for punters. Now, he has instructed his legal teams at Simpson Miller Solictors and Kings Chambers to challenge them. Joseph said: The 10pm curfew which has now been in place for the last two weeks and has been detrimental to the hospitality sector, including G-A-Y, makes absolutely no sense. It does the opposite of protecting people by pushing them onto the street at the same time. They are going from being safe inside venues with staggered closing times to unsafe on overcrowded streets and overloaded public transport. Joseph went on to say: This Government has failed to show why the 10pm curfew was put in place and has published no scientific evidence to substantiate its implementation. It seems to direct the blame for this action on the sector, consistently treating the night time Economy as a scapegoat when, in fact, we have years of operational experience of keeping customers safe, and have spent substantial time and effort making sure our venues are Covid secure. London icon: The G-A-Y owner is taking a stand against the measures Enough is enough. Matt Hancock and Boris Johnson have to be made accountable and today we have instructed our legal team with the support of the NTIA to serve the Government with a Pre-Action Protocol for Judicial Review to challenge the decision to implement the national curfew of 10pm on the hospitality sector. Joseph is an influential figure in London's clubbing scene, operating G-A-Y Bar and G-A-Y Late in London, as well as G-A-Y Manchester and Heaven in Charing Cross. It comes after the likes of Hawksmoors Will Beckett, Cornerstones Tom Brown, Darjeeling Expresss Asma Khan, Meres Monica Galletti and Le Gavroches Michel Roux, Jr, all spoke out against the 10pm curfew back in September, telling the Standard that the move will put up to one million jobs at risk. Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Army chief General MM Naravane on Monday called on Myanmar State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi here and discussed "important bilateral issues". Naypyidaw [Myanmar], October 5 (ANI): Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Army chief General MM Naravane on Monday called on Myanmar State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi here and discussed important bilateral issues. India in Myanmar wrote on Twitter that the Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane and Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Foreign Secretary along with Saurabh Kumar called on State Counsellor H.E. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Myanmar SC at MOFA Myanmar NayPyiTaw on October 5, 2020. It said that they discussed important bilateral issues. Naravane and Shringla are on a two-day visit to Myanmar to take stock of the existing bilateral ties and strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest. A Ministry of External Affairs release had said that due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, few direct exchanges had taken place between the two sides. It said that this visit will provide an opportunity to take stock of the existing bilateral ties and strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Also read: Imran Khan turns to recommend books while Pakistan bears brunt of increasing human rights violations Also read: US worried over Cambodian naval base hosting Chinese military assets amid Beijing-backed expansion India attaches high priority to its relationship with Myanmar in accordance with its Neighborhood First and Act East policies, the MEA said. In recent times, both sides have strengthened their cooperation in several areas, including connectivity and trade, development projects, energy, capacity building, defence and security and culture and people-to-people links. Also read: US President Donald Trump says, will be back soon, next few days will be real test PARIS Three more bodies were discovered Monday on the French side of the border with Italy after severe mountain flooding ravaged parts of both countries, leaving at least 12 dead. Hundreds of rescue workers were searching for up to 20 other people still missing. Flooding devastated mountainous areas in Frances southeastern Alpes-Maritimes region and Italys northwestern regions of Liguria and Piedmont after a storm swept on Friday and Saturday. Many of the identities of the dead were as murky as the churning waters that swept them away. The prefect of Frances Alpes-Maritimes region told the Nice Matin newspaper that some bodies found in Italy were apparently corpses from coffins that had been swept across the border by the raging floodwaters. Bernard Gonzalez said as of Monday afternoon, two more bodies had been found in the region after another was found Sunday in the hard-hit town of Saint-Martin-Vesubie. Another body was later found in the same town, he said later, bringing the total on the French side to four. In Italy, a womans body was discovered Monday in the Mediterranean Sea by the Ligurian province of Imperia. Five other bodies, all men, were found Sunday in the sea near San Remo, on the beach in the Italian border town of Ventimiglia and along the Imperia coast. Gonzalez said he had been in touch with Italian colleagues about bodies found on beaches of Liguria. The bodies found correspond to decomposing cadavers from our side but its most likely the bodies came from cemeteries swept away by the water, the paper quoted him as saying. Procedures to identify the bodies were underway but he did not say exactly how many corpses he was talking about. Even cows werent spared from the powerful floodwaters rushing south from the hilly backcountry. A dead cow washed up on a beach in the French Riviera town of Saint-Laurent du Var. In France, firefighters were still searching Monday for at least eight missing people who witnesses described as possibly being carried off by floodwaters. They included two firefighters whose vehicle fell into the water as a road collapsed. In addition, French rescuers were seeking to locate 12 other people whose families have not heard of them since the storm, which blocked roads and cut off communications. French authorities also found the body of a shepherd who had disappeared in the mountains. A firefighter also died in the border region of Valle dAosta. The flooding has put additional stress on regions coping with the coronavirus pandemic. The governors of both Liguria and Piedmont have asked the Italian government for emergency aid. ___ Colleen Barry in Milan, Italy contributed to the story. After a lackluster inauguration, Maryland's community college scholarship rebounded with an influx of applicants this year. But funding for the tuition-free program fell victim to the coronavirus pandemic as the state scrambled to cover the cost of combating the coronavirus. Now, a program that barely registered with residents in its first year has nearly 3,000 people on a waitlist in its second - and $3.5 million less to spend. The demand outstrips what the state says it can supply as the public health and fiscal crisis is far from over. But the economic devastation unleashed by the pandemic makes the scholarship even more critical for Maryland residents enveloped by the recession. The loss of funding for the Maryland Community College Promise scholarship arrives at a difficult time for the state's community colleges. The schools are contending with their own budget cuts and a decline in fall enrollment as the recession takes a heavy toll on the population they traditionally serve: students from low-income households. "Our students are the people working at your restaurants, they're the ones working at your stores. Those students are exponentially impacted by this crisis," said DeRionne Pollard, president of Montgomery College, one of Maryland's largest community colleges. "We know that enrollment is probably going to continue to contract because students won't have the money to go to school." Maryland is one of 30 states that cover tuition at community colleges, part of a national movement to use higher education to strengthen the local economy. College Promise programs, as tuition-free initiatives are commonly known, have resonated with elected leaders across the political spectrum, and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden has pledged to make them universal. In Maryland, the community college scholarship provides up to $5,000 to students whose families earn less than $150,000 a year and adults earning less than $100,000. The state covers tuition left over after factoring in other scholarships and grants. Similar to the other state programs that have emerged in recent years, Maryland College Promise has had its share of growing pains. The eligibility criteria were complex and restrictive, some deadlines changed midstream, and students complained of not getting timely responses to their questions. But this year was different. Advertising kicked off early, with community colleges, high schools and the Maryland Higher Education Commission reminding students throughout the year to apply. And legislative fixes to some requirements of the scholarship expanded the pool of applicants. The program, which was exclusively focused on recent high school graduates, opened to adult learners. In a state where the average community college student is 25 years old, eliminating the age restriction is significant, advocates say. State legislators also ended a requirement that recipients live in the state after graduation for as many years as they receive tuition assistance under threat of the scholarship being turned into a loan that must be repaid. Those changes yielded significant results. The higher education commission, which administers the scholarship, identified 16,100 eligible people based on their families' reported income from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, known as FAFSA, or Maryland's version of the financial aid form. Of those who were eligible, 5,798 people qualified for the award because they had unmet need, meaning their tuition was not covered by other state or federal financial aid, according to the higher education commission. They were given until the end of July to submit a transcript showing they earned a grade-point average of at least 2.3 the first semester of their senior year in high school and completed high school or earned a GED. But weeks before that July deadline, the fate of the scholarship took a turn. With Maryland facing a multimillion-dollar shortfall from the coronavirus pandemic, the Board of Public Works cut $413 million out of the state's budget at the beginning of the month, including $3.5 million from the scholarship. That left $8 million in funding for the grant program and created a waitlist of 2,966 people - more than double the number of students awarded scholarships this time last year. "The unintended consequence of trying to balance the budget is now we're not meeting the need and the intent of the promise program," said Bernard Sadusky, executive director of the Maryland Association of Community Colleges. State Sen. Paul Pinsky, D-Prince George's, who championed an early version of the scholarship bill and the legislative fixes, said the program was a "victim of circumstances." State lawmakers had approved $15 million for the first year of the grant, but the low uptake resulted in less funding for the scholarship this year. And then the pandemic siphoned off more dollars. "Everyone is going to be in the cue for money given covid and the shortfall in revenue, but I don't have to make a case for the need" to fund the scholarship, Pinsky said. "We have close to 3,000 people waiting in line." Maryland is in a better financial position than expected this spring, with revenue forecasts this week suggesting the state has enough money to avert deep budget cuts. There is no assurance the state's improved financial outlook will translate into more dollars for the scholarship program, but the governor's office is looking into the funding shortfall. "State budget officials are working closely with the Maryland Higher Education Commission, and exploring options to help more applicants," said Michael Ricci, a spokesman for Republican Gov. Larry Hogan. "We're very encouraged by the increased interest in the program." Sadusky fears the shortfall in funding for the promise scholarship contributed to the lower head counts at some area schools this fall. Enrollment is down at nearly all of Maryland's 16 community colleges, reflecting a nationwide trend that has many in higher education worried. Community colleges educate some of the neediest students within higher education and their absence this fall could threaten the gains of the last several years in closing equity gaps. Preliminary data from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center found an 8% decline in enrollment at the nation's community colleges. The ever-present health risks of the pandemic and the disproportionate economic impact on lower-income families are rattling the sector. The loss of tuition revenue at Maryland community colleges is being compounded by reductions in state appropriations, which plummeted by more than $36 million dollars, or 13%, in the summer. "I applaud the state for the commitment to small businesses and being the safety net for so many Marylanders," said Pollard, of Montgomery College. "I also want them to keep in mind that post-secondary education is a part of that safety net." As it stands, the fall headcount at Montgomery College is down about 5% compared to the same time a year ago. One bright spot is increased enrollment in shorter, seven-week courses, specifically those focused on network technology and other disciplines that could lead to immediate work, Pollard said. At Prince George's Community College in Largo, President Falecia Williams also noted greater interest in accelerated programs, although the overall headcount is down about 4 percent. Students at the community college used every dollar of grant aid available to them this semester, an indication they are experiencing greater financial need, Williams said. "There is a resource gap . . . that has put our students in a bit of instability," Williams said. They married on the Spanish island of Ibiza in 2017. And Alicia Vikander and husband Michael Fassbender were back to their European travels last week, as they were spotted checking into the five-star Grand Hotel in Stockholm to mark Alicia's 32nd birthday. The Hollywood power couple - who live in Lisbon - kept things casual as they collected their belongings and settled their taxi fare. Jet set: Alicia Vikander and husband Michael Fassbender were spotted checking into the Grand Hotel in Stockholm to mark Alicia's 32nd birthday last week Alicia looked stylish in a big white hoodie and black overcoat, while she had her chestnut tresses tied up in a neat bun. The Swedish Oscar-winning actress exuded just a hint of Hollywood glamour by sporting a giant white Louis Vuitton handbag in which she carried her essentials. Michael, 43, wrapped up warm in a thick wool-lined coat which he wore over a white v-neck T-shirt. The Irish-German X-Men star looked cool with a navy cap placed over his auburn locks. Casual: The duo dressed down in low key outfits, though Alicia, 32, sported a massive white Louis Vuitton handbag Autumn break: Alicia settled the fare before they headed inside to enjoy their break in the Swedish capital together Holidaying during a global pandemic, the actors took no chances as they each sported medical-grade turquoise masks. In an interview for the October edition of Elle Magazine, Alicia recently revealed that she would love to work with her husband in a film again. She said: 'I would love to work with him one day, but we're very much individuals, which I love and I think is good in any relationship. 'We both take on parts because it's a film that is right for us, so it would have to be the same if we were ever to work together again.' The couple met when they starred together in the romantic drama The Light Between Oceans, released in 2016. Known as one of Hollywood's most private couples, they tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in October 2017. Alicia is next set to star alongside Julianne Moore in The Glorias, a biopic about US feminist icon Julia Steinem, which is out in the UK in January. The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is asking a federal appeals court to allow the government to ban the China-owned messaging app WeChat in the country. The DOJ has filed a notice of appeal against the preliminary junction issued by US Magistrate Judge Laurel Beeler last month. The injunction blocked the US Department of Commerce order which included removing WeChat from mobile app stores in the country. The order also barred other transactions with the app, essentially rendering it unusable. Magistrate Beeler of the United States District Court for the Northern District of California on September 19 issued a preliminary injunction blocking these restrictions and prohibitions. She said the ban would violate the free-speech rights of the American WeChat users. The Trump administration is now asking the court to reinstate them, Bloomberg reports. WeChat reportedly has an average of 19 million daily active users in the US. Advertisement The US asks the court to reinstate the WeChat ban The Trump administration has repeatedly said that WeChat, owned by Tencent Holdings, is a threat to national security. President Donald Trump believes the Chinese Communist Party may have a backdoor to the Chinese company. This would allow the Chinese government to spy on American WeChat users and steal their private data. The Commerce Department last month passed an order asking mobile app stores in the country to pull the app from their respective platforms. However, the US WeChat Users Alliance expectedly challenged the order and won a preliminary injunction. Lawyers for the group argue that the Trump administration has no evidence for its claims. The group says these are politically-driven decisions ahead of the 2020 election. Advertisement The government is trying to seek an emergency stay of the preliminary injunction, said lawyer Clay Zhu. But it has waited for twelve days to file the appeal. If WeChat truly represents an imminent threat to national security as the government claims, it should have filed an appeal on the same day or the next day of the preliminary injunction order. The reality is that there is no emergency. The Trump administration also has similar security concerns over TikTok and has asked its Chinese parent ByteDance to divest the apps US operations to an American company. TikTok has reached a deal with Oracle but is yet to receive regulatory approvals. President Trump has, meanwhile, threatened to ban the app if the new TikTok doesnt satisfy the governments security concerns. A federal judge in Washington last week issued a similar preliminary injunction to halt app stores from removing TikTok. The judge hasnt yet decided on whether to block other restrictions that would see an outright ban of the app. Those restrictions are set to take effect on November 12th. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council meeting on compensation for the states remained inconclusive on Monday, with 20-21 states opting for the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) window of Rs 1.10 trillion (earlier it was Rs 97,000 crore) and around 10 states insisting the Centre borrow and disburse the money. The next meeting is now scheduled for October 12. The question was 20-21 states deciding to opt for the first option (the RBI window) and others wanting the Centre to borrow. Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. 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Digital Editor Copyright 2020 Albuquerque Journal A former Catholic priest accused of committing heinous sexual acts against children in New Mexico decades ago has died just weeks before he was to go on trial for the first-degree sexual abuse of a girl at the Queen of Heaven grade school in Albuquerque. His death last week in northern New Mexico, where he had been released on his personal recognizance pending trial, was confirmed by the state Attorney Generals Office on Monday. The pending criminal prosecution by Attorney General Hector Balderas office was expected to cap decades of civil allegations by more than 38 people, both men and women, who said they had been sexually abused by Griego as children and minors. His trial was set to begin Nov. 16. We are disappointed that the survivors of his abuse will not get their day in court, but our office will continue to hold institutions and those in positions of power accountable for their abuses in these cases, said AG chief counsel Matt Baca. To the end, Sabine Griego, 82, who was living with relatives pending trial in Albuquerque, denied the allegations of child sexual abuse, including those in the criminal case. His attorney didnt return a phone call Monday. Sabine Griego dodged prison, said Albuquerque attorney Brad Hall on Monday. But I am hearing from many of our clients that are his victims, or the victims of other priests, upon the news of his death that they are extremely emotional and deeply wounded, that it is they who remain in prison every day, suffering from the murder of their souls and the utter devastation of childhood rapes by priests who got away with it. Halls office has represented more than 18 victims who have filed claims against Griego. Griego hadnt practiced as a priest since the 1990s. Then-Archibishop of Santa Fe Michael J. Sheehan, in a 2004 letter marked confidential, asked the Vatican to strip Griego of his priestly authority and duties, noting the sheer volume and heinous nature of the accusations against him. Particularly abhorrent is the case of the female victim who was nine in 1990 at the time of the alleged abuse, Sheehan wrote. She indicated that she endured vaginal, oral and anal sex. The abuse occurred over a period of two years, court records alleged, beginning about 1988 when she was age 7. Years after Sheehans letter, contacted by AG investigators, that same victim confirmed she was the female victim he wrote about. The criminal charges that resulted against Griego in early 2019 included eight counts of first-degree criminal sexual penetration. During one rape, court records state, Griego allegedly slammed her face into a table, breaking her nose. Griego, born in La Madera, is alleged to have begun molesting children in New Mexico soon after his ordination as a priest in the mid-1960s. He is one of the few priests, among the 79 clergy members identified as credibly accused by the Archdiocese of Santa Fe, to have faced a criminal prosecution. Two dogs are locked in a cage at an animal shelter in Uljin, North Gyeongsang Province, in this Sept. 22 photo. / Courtesy of Beagle Rescue Network By Lee Hyo-jin Lee Hyung-joo, an animal rights activist, was busy during this Chuseok holiday as hundreds of pets were abandoned by people visiting family or tourist destinations. "Stray dogs or cats are easily spotted in local highway rest areas. People who abandon their pets tend to leave them as far from home as possible, so they find holidays and summer vacations to be the right time," said Lee, head of Animal Welfare Awareness, Research and Education (Aware). During Chuseok in 2019, 728 animals were reported lost or abandoned, according to Pawinhand, a platform for animal adoption. The exact number for this year is yet to be tallied, but Lee expects it won't be much different from last year. Data shows that holidays are not the only period animals are left abandoned. Over 135,000 homeless animals were found nationwide in 2019, up 10 percent from 2018, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. The number has surged 67 percent compared with 2014. Experts explain that various factors have led to the continued increase in numbers. Irresponsible pet ownership "Not all animal lovers are fully aware of animal rights, or well-educated on the responsibility that entails pet adoption. Impulsive decisions to get cute animals may have led to the increase in abandoned pets," Lee said. Living with pets is surely a trend here. As of 2019, one out of four households was found to include domestic animals, according to the Korea Rural Economic Institute (KREI). Videos of cute pets hitting tens of thousands of views on YouTube show people's growing interest in animals. The government has recently introduced stronger punishment for those who abuse animals. Starting January 2021, under the revised Animal Protection Act, the police may launch investigations into crimes related to abandoned pets, which are handled mostly by civil servants at the local government currently. Those found guilty after the investigation may face fines up to 3 million won ($2,580). "The tightened laws are welcome, but preemptive measures to prevent abandonment, such as better education and monitoring, will also be needed," Lee added. Ineffective adoption campaign Another measure to reduce the number of abandoned pets is to find new families for animal adoption. However, the government's efforts to prompt people to choose animal shelters instead of pet shops has not yet appeared very effective, according to experts. The benefit offered by local governments, covering up to 100,000 won of total costs spent in the adoption process, does not seem to attract many people. "The biggest reason why people feel reluctant to choose animal shelters is concerns over disease. They wouldn't want to bring ill animals into their home. Animals in unsanitary and poorly managed shelters are more prone to diseases than they are in the wild," said Seo Mi-jin, an activist at Korean Animal Welfare Association (KAWA). In September, it turned out that a dog shelter in Uljin, North Gyeongsang Province, was run by an owner of an animal slaughter house. The same month, 86 percent of dogs were found to have been inhumanely killed in a shelter in Goseong, South Gyeongsang Province. "Rather than giving out subsidiary benefits, a more feasible way to vitalize adoption is improving the health conditions of homeless dogs to make more people willing to choose them," Seo said. STOCKHOLM, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Telkom Indonesia, owner of one of the world's largest Wi-Fi networks, Indonesia Wi-Fi, celebrates six years in partnership with Aptilo Networks. Telkom has now completed an upgrade to the latest version of the Aptilo Service Management Platform (SMP) with increased capacity and enhanced geographical redundancy. Telkom's Indonesia Wi-Fi network is one of the busiest in the world serving more than 70 million users with 400,000+ Wi-Fi access points. To be ready for the future, this upgrade further improves capacity and strengthens geographical redundancy to ensure a consistent service. Indonesia Wi-Fi is available with high-capacity fiber backhaul nationwide in the world's largest archipelago country with 237 million people spread across 17,000 islands. Users are consuming 15-25 Petabyte (PB) of data per month. To put things in perspective, 25 PB is equivalent to eight million hours of full HD video. "Managing Wi-Fi services with 400,000+ access points (including homespot) and 70 million users across 17,000 islands puts extreme demands on the Wi-Fi service management core platform," said Irwan Indriastanto, Senior Manager Wireless Product, Telkom Indonesia. "Our customers deserve the best high-performance Wi-Fi service available. We are very pleased to expand our relationship with Aptilo to enhance the capabilities of our Wi-Fi service." Telkom Indonesia also offers a first class business-to-business (B2B) Wi-Fi service which addresses all customer segments including enterprise, SME, wholesale and retail. Through their WICO (Wi-Fi Corner) product, Telkom Indonesia helps governments build smart cities and provide social services. "We are proud to have enabled one of the world's largest public Wi-Fi services for the last six years," said Paul Mikkelsen, CEO, Aptilo Networks. "We are also impressed at how Telkom Indonesia makes the most out of the innovations from Aptilo and Wi-Fi equipment vendors." About Aptilo Networks Aptilo Networks, an Enea company, is a leading provider of carrier-class systems to manage data services with advanced functions for authentication, policy control and charging. Aptilo Service Management Platform (SMP) has become synonymous with Wi-Fi service management and Wi-Fi offload in large-scale deployments with 100+ operators in more than 75 countries, and is a critical component of Wi-Fi calling and IoT. For more information, visit www.aptilo.com . Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/782085/Aptilo_Networks_Logo.jpg Media Contact: Hillary Call Aptilo Networks AB P: +1-917-414-9262 [email protected] SOURCE Aptilo Networks Related Links https://www.aptilo.com Ireland could be without enough intensive care beds by November if the current coronavirus surge continues, a leading health expert has warned. The three coalition leaders are to meet chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan later to discuss proposals to move the country to Level 5 of coronavirus restrictions, which would effectively return the country to lockdown. The National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) has made the stark recommendation as the country struggles to get to grips with rising infections, with almost 1,000 cases confirmed over the weekend. Dr Tony Holohan speaking during a Covid-19 update briefing at the Department of Health in Dublin (PA) The Cabinet will ultimately decide whether to act on the advice, but ministers are said to have been shocked at the proposal, and there are concerns about the potential social and economic fallout. NPHET member Dr Mary Favier, former president of the Irish College of General Practitioners, said Ireland is on course to see between 1,500 and 2,000 cases a day by next month if stricter measures are not adopted. Speaking on RTEs Morning Ireland, she added: The reality is that if things keep going as they are, if you or I had a bad road traffic accident in November or needed emergency cardiac surgery, there might not be an intensive care bed for you or I. This is a real concern. Back in March we effectively closed the hospitals. We had issues of temporary wards and temporary morgues. We do not want to see that again. Dr Favier said the decision was not made yesterday but had been under consideration for two or three weeks. NPHET has proposed the country moves to Level 5 restrictions for four weeks. The Government were urged to make a dramatic intervention by buying up private hospitals to increase ICU capacity and avoid a second lockdown. Labour leader Alan Kelly said the move would pay for itself by avoiding the economic fallout of a nationwide shutdown on businesses. He told reporters: If we buy the hospitals, if we take in a lot of their capacity if thats the main issue well be able to keep the economy much more open. Story continues The tax revenue that will be lost will pay for it in the first place. Cabinet is expected to meet today to discuss the proposals. If it agrees to the recommendation this would represent a return to the strictest possible public health measures, similar to those seen in April and May. People would be asked to stay within 5km (three miles) of their homes, while all non-essential retail outlets would close. However, in a Level-5 scenario, schools and creches would remain open. Moving to higher level of restrictions without adequate supports for workers, families, services and businesses would be catastrophic. Govt failure to invest in health services has left us dangerously vulnerable. I will speak with Taoiseach later today #COVID19 Mary Lou McDonald (@MaryLouMcDonald) October 5, 2020 Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald warned that returning to lockdown without the necessary supports in place would be catastrophic. She tweeted: Moving to higher level of restrictions without adequate supports for workers, families, services and businesses would be catastrophic. Govt failure to invest in health services has left us dangerously vulnerable. I will speak with Taoiseach later today #COVID19 The chief executive of Irelands health service has also urged caution on the proposals. Health Service Executive (HSE) chief executive Paul Reid, who does not sit on NPHET, has urged Government to also consider the impact such a move would have on mental health and the economy. He tweeted: Theres obvious concerns about the trends on #COVID19. But we also know the impacts of severe & regular restrictions in society on the public health, wellbeing, mental health and the economy. Level 5 recommendation to Government has to be considered in this context too. @HSELive. Face coverings can help to reduce the spread of #coronavirus. They should: cover the nose & go under the chin fit snugly against the side of the face be secured with ties or ear loops include at least 2 layers of fabric allow for unrestricted breathing pic.twitter.com/FPHqPQz7FZ HSE Ireland (@HSELive) October 5, 2020 The latest figures show there are 150 people in Irish hospitals with coronavirus, with 21 confirmed cases in intensive care units. Under the proposed restrictions, people would be urged to stay at home and not meet with others from outside their own household. People will be asked to work from home where possible, while bars and restaurants will be limited to takeaway services only. Funerals will be limited to just 10 attendees, while only six will be permitted at weddings. No organised sport will be allowed and people will only be able to exercise only within 5km (three miles) of their homes. There are a few key trends to look for if we want to identify the next multi-bagger. 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. Having said that, from a first glance at City Pub Group (LON:CPC) we aren't jumping out of our chairs at how returns are trending, but let's have a deeper look. What is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)? If you haven't worked with ROCE before, it measures the 'return' (pre-tax profit) a company generates from capital employed in its business. Analysts use this formula to calculate it for City Pub Group: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.0053 = UK761k (UK151m - UK8.5m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2020). So, City Pub Group has an ROCE of 0.5%. In absolute terms, that's a low return and it also under-performs the Hospitality industry average of 6.8%. Check out our latest analysis for City Pub Group roce In the above chart we have measured City Pub Group's prior ROCE against its prior performance, but the future is arguably more important. If you're interested, you can view the analysts predictions in our free report on analyst forecasts for the company. What Can We Tell From City Pub Group's ROCE Trend? Unfortunately, the trend isn't great with ROCE falling from 1.9% five years ago, while capital employed has grown 342%. That being said, City Pub Group raised some capital prior to their latest results being released, so that could partly explain the increase in capital employed. It's unlikely that all of the funds raised have been put to work yet, so as a consequence City Pub Group might not have received a full period of earnings contribution from it. Story continues What We Can Learn From City Pub Group's ROCE We're a bit apprehensive about City Pub Group because despite more capital being deployed in the business, returns on that capital and sales have both fallen. This could explain why the stock has sunk a total of 71% in the last year. Unless these trends revert to a more positive trajectory, we would look elsewhere. If you want to know some of the risks facing City Pub Group we've found 3 warning signs (1 is a bit unpleasant!) that you should be aware of before investing here. While City Pub Group may not currently earn the highest returns, we've compiled a list of companies that currently earn more than 25% return on equity. Check out this free list here. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 11:23:04|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BUENOS AIRES, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- Argentina's total COVID-19 infections is approaching 800,000, while national death toll has surpassed 21,000, the country's health ministry said Sunday. According to the ministry, 7,668 new infections and 223 new deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total caseload and death toll to 798,486 and 21,018, respectively. Buenos Aires, the largest province in the South American country, has so far registered 435,934 infections, remaining the most affected among all provinces. Argentina is under quarantine by a presidential decree from March 20 to Oct. 11 to mitigate the spread of the pandemic, with only industrial and business activities permitted. Enditem Copyright 2020 Albuquerque Journal The U.S. Supreme Court is wading into another water dispute between Texas and New Mexico over the Pecos River Compact, with oral arguments scheduled to be heard Monday. At issue is a complaint from Texas that New Mexico received delivery credit for water that had evaporated. In September 2014, rainfall from Tropical Storm Odile soaked West Texas and eastern New Mexico. New Mexico held Pecos River water in Brantley Reservoir due to rising water levels. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation operates the lake, near Carlsbad. Hannah Riseley-White, deputy director of the New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission, said public safety concerns drove the decision. The call came from Texas that they were having widespread flooding just across the state line, she said. In November 2014, once the storm event and crisis had passed, and we were getting ready to release water, Texas requested we continue to hold the water. Red Bluff Reservoir was still full, and they wanted to be able to use the water at some future date. New Mexico eventually released the water in August 2015. By that time, 21,000 acre-feet, or about 6.8 billion gallons, had evaporated. Discussion between the states indicated that Texas would assume evaporative losses on the water delivery. But in 2017, Texas reversed course and appealed to the river master in charge of tallying water deliveries. The river master decided that New Mexico should receive delivery credit for about 16,000 acre-feet of the water that evaporated. Our perspective is that but for Texas request, that water would have been released in November to the state line, passed through gauges and been credited to New Mexico, Riseley-White said. It seems clear from a procedural standpoint and an equity standpoint that the decision was appropriate. Texas petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to review the decision. Texas will present first in Mondays court proceedings, which will be conducted remotely. Texas says the river masters decision was clearly erroneous. After coordinating with parties in both New Mexico and Texas, the bureau began releasing floodwater in August 2015, the Texas motion for review says. That timing confirms that the bureau was not holding the water for Texass use, but instead was storing the water for flood control. New Mexico will share argument time with the U.S. Solicitor Generals Office. The office filed an amicus curiae, or friend of the court, brief supporting New Mexicos position. New Mexico has a credit of more than 166,000 acre-feet under the Pecos compact. That will shrink by about 16,000 acre-feet if the court rules against New Mexico. Some people point out that we have such a huge credit, so why does New Mexico care? Riseley-White said. On the Rio Grande, 16,000 acre-feet might seem much more insignificant. But on the Pecos, its a significant amount almost a third of our annual delivery obligation under the compact. A smaller credit could also affect agricultural water supply. If the credit falls below 115,000 acre-feet, less water is available for the Carlsbad Irrigation District under a 2003 Pecos settlement agreement. The case marks the first time the Supreme Court has heard a challenge to a decision made by its appointed river master. Theresa Davis is a Report for America corps member covering water and the environment for the Albuquerque Journal. Mysuru, Oct 5 : In the wake of Mysuru registering a Covid mortality rate of 3.9 per cent which is higher than the global average, Karnataka on Monday decided in-principle to celebrate a simple Dasara this year, Medical Education Minister K. Sudhakar announced here. Speaking to reporters after a high-level Dasara preparation meeting with elected representatives here, Sudhakar observed that mistakes committed during Onam in Kerala should not be repeated, hence the state government had decided to organise a simple yet meaningful Dasara. "Kerala, which had relaxed the protocols during Onam festival is paying for its mistake. For that mistake, Kerala is registering 7,000 - 8,000 cases every day. We need to avoid such a mistake here. That's the reason for celebrating a simple Dasara this time," he explained. The minister further added that the matter will be finalised after due consultations with Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa district in-charge minister S.T. Somashekhar and Health Minister B. Sreeramulu. He added that the strategy for Dasara should be prepared. "The programme, like Covid-Free Village, should be designed to disinfect 65 wards. Covid control should become the top priority," he said. The minister directed that drugs purchased for ILI infections must be monitored by all medicine outlets. "Work on treating and testing senior citizens and patients suffering from other illnesses must be done. 96,000 senior citizens suffering from various ailments should be reverse isolated. Food and other stuff to be provided by the district administration," he said. Mysuru Dasara, starting October 17, is a famous 10-day festival with pomp and grandeur and the city celebrates with Mysuru royals. The festival is steeped in religious history of Goddess Chamundeshwari who is believed to have killed the demon Mahishasur. After his death, the city acquired the name of Mysuru. Devotees built a temple for Chamundeshwari. Today, the festivities begin with the Wadiyar royal couple offering prayers to this goddess, followed by a special Durbar (royal assembly) and many other cultural events. On the 10th day (October 27) of Vijaydashmi, a spectacular procession is held. But due to the pandemic, the state government has decided to celebrate this grand festival in a low key manner, as a result of this the number of elephants were restricted to five and the procession will take place within the palace premises and not through the main streets of the city. However, the important circles in the city will be illuminated using electric lights for the celebrations. The procession takes place on the day of Vijayadashami or Dussehra when the 10-day festival culminates. Baptist Housing is hosting its two first open houses about the Inglewood Care Centre redevelopment project on Tues., Oct. 6. Its an opportunity to ask questions and express concerns about 699 units that are planned for the property west of Taylor Way. The multi-year project will include: replacing the current 230-bed facility 69 new long-term private care units 50 new private-pay assisted living units 50 new affordable seniors housing suites 70 new seniors independent living suites 125 new seniors life-lease suites 105 suites for staff which, if not spoken for, can also be made available to other workers in West Vancouver and the possibility of a childcare centre The project is being done in co-operation with B.C. Housing and Vancouver Coastal Health. To make the project economically viable, Baptist Housing told council in August that it must include the various types of housing. Baptist Housing plans to start with constructing the existing facilitys replacement and says it has incorporated lessons from the pandemic into its design. The first open houses are over two sessions on Oct. 6: 3 to 4:30 p.m. 5:30 to 7 p.m. Both sessions are at Har El, the North Shore Centre for Jewish Life, at 1305 Taylor Way. The centre is next door to the project site. No pre-registration is required but, due to COVID-19 restrictions, participation is limited to a maximum of 50 people per session. Everyone attending will be required to register as they enter the open house for the purposes of contact tracing. The next open house is planned for Thurs., Nov. 5 at the same locaion. A virtual public information meeting is also being organized for Thurs., Oct. 29. Details for each session, as well as a survey, will also be available at baptisthousing.org/inglewoodredevelopment. Martha Perkins is the North Shore News Indigenous and civic affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative. Read more about: Bank Nizwa CEO Khalid Al Kayed has been named as the GIFA CEO of the Year at the 10th edition of the Global Islamic Finance Awards 2020. The award aimed at recognising of his pivotal role in leading Bank Nizwa, the leading and most trusted Islamic bank in Oman, to unprecedented growth, and in helping promote Shariah compliant banking in the sultanate. Commenting upon receiving the prestigious award, Khalid said, I am truly delighted to receive this award from one of the worlds most respected forums for Islamic banking. I am convinced this is the result of teamwork. I consider this recognition from GIFA 2020 as a testament to the dedication support from the board members and hard work of my colleagues at Bank Nizwa. The recognition is gratifying as it comes at a time when, as a team, we have delivered a landmark performance for Bank Nizwa during an especially challenging period. In the prevailing economic climate, Bank Nizwa recorded 37% growth in Net Profit the highest in the banking sector in the sultanate, booked a 14% increase in total assets, funding to customers as well as customer deposits and grown shareholders equity by 9%. Al Kayeds stewardship of the Executive Management Team under the guidance of the Board of Directors, has led Omans first and the most trusted Islamic bank to record retained profits for the first time, amortising total accumulated losses since inception. A financial industry veteran with over 25 years of experience, Al Kayed has served as Acting Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer in Bank Nizwa. Prior to this, he held various positions in a host of respected financial institutions. His areas of expertise range from banking management, financial control, accounting, to risk management and asset liability amongst others. Al Kayed previously won the Islamic Banker of the Year Award at GIFA 2018, Top CEO Award at the TOP CEO Awards & Conference 2018, and was named one of the Top 50 Leaders of the Islamic Economy in the ISLAMICA 500 Guide in March 2020. In addition, he was awarded as Islamic Bank of the Year 2020 by International Investor Magazine. Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA) have grown over the years to become one of the highly coveted and most respectable market-led awards in Islamic banking and finance in the world. Bank Nizwas longlist of awards includes +27 local, regional and international awards over the years, including the Best Islamic Bank in Oman from the World Union of Arab Bankers, and Arab Golden Coin Pioneer of Islamic banking in the Sultanate of Oman, to name but a few. -- Tradearabia News Service Bhubaneswar, Oct 5 : Odisha Police have arrested a 25-year-old man, who robbed two banks of Rs 12 lakh in Bhubaneswar last month after learning the robbery techniques from Youtube. The youth has been identified as Soumyaranjan Jena from Tangibanta village on the city outskirts. He robbed the Indian Overseas Bank and the Bank of India last month to recover losses from business suffered during the Covid-19 lockdown. He owns a shop in his village where he sells sarees, shoes and other items. His monthly turnover before the lockdown was Rs 9 lakh, Police Commissioner Sudhansu Sarangi said on Monday. Soumyaranjan had looted nearly Rs 12 lakh from the Indian Overseas Bank near the Infocity area on September 7, and the Bank of India's Barimunda branch on September 28. "The accused belongs to a good family and runs a shop in his village. He had taken loans of Rs 19 lakh from both the banks he looted. As he could not repay the loan, he committed the crime after learning the techniques from Youtube," said Sarangi. Interestingly, he repaid a part of the loan from the looted money. After looting the Indian Overseas Bank with a toy gun, he had bought a pistol by using the looted money. Later, he used the pistol and the toy gun to loot the second bank. Over Rs 10 lakh, toy guns and a vehicle have been recovered from the accused. If you have an event you'd like to list on the site, submit it now! Submit Islamabad: The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) may decide on the situation in the gray list of Pakistan in a digital meeting to be held later this month. This information is given in a media report on Monday. In June 2018, the Paris-based Global Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Monitoring Organization put Pakistan on the gray list and directed Islamabad to implement a plan of action to curb money laundering and terrorism financing by the end of 2019. However, this timeframe was later extended due to the Corona epidemic. Trying to come out of the gray list of FATF, Pakistan imposed financial restrictions on 88 banned terrorist organizations and their leaders in August. These include Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and head of the Jamaat-ud-Dawa, Masood Azhar, the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed, and underworld don Dawood Ibrahim. According to Dawn's report, the digital plenary session of the FATF will be held from 21 to 23 October, in which it will be decided based on its performance to meet Pakistan's global commitments and standards on its war against money laundering and terrorism financing Whether to be removed from the gray list or not. Also Read: HDFC bank's CMO gets placed in Forbes list of 'The World's most influential CMOs' As US Prez gets admitted; competitor Biden leads in polls Explore all practical measures and options to deter illegal migration: UK Home Sec Priti Patel US President to return back to White House by Monday Boxer's son Rublev refuses to be counted out at Roland Garros Andrey Rublev on his way to victory on Monday Andrey Rublev has been on the ropes numerous times at Roland Garros, but so far nobody has delivered the knockout blow for the Moscow-born, battle-hardened son of a boxer. On Monday, Rublev reached his first Roland Garros quarter-final with a 6-7 (4/7), 7-5, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3) win over Marton Fucsovics of Hungary. In a match which featured 12 breaks of serve, the 22-year-old had been a break down in the second and third sets. He also had to save three set points in the fourth. In four matches at the tournament, his opponents have served for sets on eight occasions but Rublev has been equal to the task every time. In the first round, he had to fight back from two sets down for the first time in his career to defeat American giant Sam Querrey. It's a steeliness forged by the heartache of missing the last two editions of the French Open -- in 2018, he was sidelined for three months with a lower back injury while last year it was a wrist problem which required six weeks of rest which kept him again away from Paris. "For sure I appreciate much more things now inside the court and outside the court," said the 13th seed who has now reached back-to-back quarter-finals at the Slams after his second career run to the last eight at the US Open last month. "You always become mentally stronger no matter what happened. If you take the lesson in the right way, you can be stronger mentally. So of course in my case it helps me. But if you ask me I would prefer to not have these injuries." Rublev's path to the last eight allows him to emulate some major heavyweight talents from Russia -- former champion Yevgeny Kafelnikov made the quarter-finals five times, Nikolay Davydenko four times and mercurial Marat Safin achieved it twice. - 'I was not even a player' - Rublev is also one of 2020's in-form players. His three titles -- in Doha, Adelaide and on clay in Hamburg -- are second only to Novak Djokovic's four. Story continues He puts his success down to a new mindset compared to his carefree early days when he was world junior number one and captured the 2014 boys title at the French Open. "I would say at that time I was not even a player," he insisted. "I was completely different. I was a kid. I was doing stupid things on court, off court. I really loved tennis. I was working really hard when I was a kid. But I didn't understand at that moment what tennis is. "I didn't understand what you need to do on court, what you need to do out of court. I was just hitting, practising, hitting, because I love it, but without thinking how to play, what you need to do, how to defend and all these little details. I didn't even know how it works." Standing in his way of a semi-final place at Roland Garros is Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas, the fifth seed who will also be playing in his first Roland Garros quarter-final. Rublev has a 2-0 record over his fellow 22-year-old, including on clay in the Hamburg final on the eve of the French Open. Tsitsipas overcame an eye problem to become the first Greek to reach the quarter-finals with a 6-3, 7-6 (11/9), 6-2 win over Grigor Dimitrov. He has now won 12 successive sets at the tournament having been two sets down to Jaume Munar in the opening round. "I had a problem with my eye so that's why I had to call the doctor. It happened in my earlier matches too. It's still red and irritated," he explained. On Monday, he saved three set points in the second set tiebreaker while frustrating 18th seed Dimitrov by saving the only three break points he faced. "The tiebreak was where the money was," said Tsitsipas who fell in a five-setter to former champion Stan Wawrinka in the last 16 in 2019. dj/mw Born and raised in India, I learned at an early age that deep-seated patriarchal and misogynistic values can work to silence womens voices. The act of speaking up demanded courage, and I saw an extraordinary example of it firsthand in 2004, when a dozen middle-aged women staged a protest over the death of Thangjam Manorama, a young woman who was taken into custody by soldiers and later found murdered, her mutilated body showing signs of sexual assault and torture. The Manipuri protesters stood naked, holding banners that said, Indian Army Rape Us and Indian Army Take Our Flesh. They took aim at the Armed Forces Special Powers Act, which had granted extraordinary powers to the Indian Armed Forces to maintain law and order, and which had led to incidents of extrajudicial executions and brutality against women. While the womens demand to repeal the act was denied, paramilitary forces vacated their headquarters at the Kangla Palace in Imphal, where the protest had taken place. And so, at the age of 16, I found my heroes in a group of disenfranchised women using their voices and bodies as an instrument of change in a conservative society. Ever since, I have been trying to understand how women living in far-flung corners of this country, with little to no privilege, are asserting themselves in a culture that oppresses and subjugates them. A team of geobiologists and astronomers from the United States and Germany has identified 24 extrasolar planets that may have conditions more suitable for life than Earth. Those alien worlds are older, a little larger, slightly warmer and possibly wetter than our own planet. The 24 top contenders for superhabitable planets are all more than 100 light-years away, but our study could help focus future observation efforts, such as from NASAs James Web Space Telescope, NASAs LUVIOR (Large UV/Optical/IR Surveyor) space observatory and ESAs PLATO (PLAnetary Transits and Oscillations of stars) space telescope, said Professor Dirk Schulze-Makuch, a geobiologist at Washington State University and the Technical University in Berlin. With the next space telescopes coming up, we will get more information, so it is important to select some targets. We have to focus on certain planets that have the most promising conditions for complex life. However, we have to be careful to not get stuck looking for a second Earth because there could be planets that might be more suitable for life than ours. In the study, Professor Schulze-Makuch and his colleagues, Dr. Rene Heller from the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research and Dr. Edward Guinan from Villanova University, identified superhabitability criteria and searched among the 4,500 known exoplanets for good candidates. They selected stellar systems with probable terrestrial planets orbiting within the host stars liquid water habitable zone from the Kepler Object of Interest Exoplanet Archive of transiting exoplanets. While the Sun is the center of our Solar System, it has a relatively short lifespan of less than 10 billion years, they said. Since it took nearly 4 billion years before any form of complex life appeared on Earth, many similar stars to our Sun, called G-type stars, might run out of fuel before complex life can develop. In addition to looking at systems with cooler G-type stars, we also looked at systems with K-dwarf stars, which are somewhat cooler, less massive and less luminous than our Sun. K stars have the advantage of long lifespans of 20 to 70 billion years. This would allow orbiting planets to be older as well as giving life more time to advance to the complexity currently found on Earth. However, to be habitable, planets should not be so old that they have exhausted their geothermal heat and lack protective geomagnetic fields. Earth is around 4.5 billion years old, but the scientists argue that the sweet spot for life is a planet that is between 5 billion to 8 billion years old. Size and mass also matter. A planet that is 10% larger than the Earth should have more habitable land, they said. One that is about 1.5 times Earths mass would be expected to retain its interior heating through radioactive decay longer and would also have a stronger gravity to retain an atmosphere over a longer time period. Water is key to life and a little more of it would help, especially in the form of moisture, clouds and humidity. A slightly overall warmer temperature, a mean surface temperature of about 5 degrees Celsius (or about 8 degrees Fahrenheit) greater than Earth, together with the additional moisture, would be also better for life. This warmth and moisture preference is seen on Earth with the greater biodiversity in tropical rain forests than in colder, drier areas. Among the 24 top planet candidates none of them meet all the criteria for superhabitable planets, but one has four of the critical characteristics, making it possibly much more comfortable for life than our home planet. Its sometimes difficult to convey this principle of superhabitable planets because we think we have the best planet, Professor Schulze-Makuch said. We have a great number of complex and diverse lifeforms, and many that can survive in extreme environments. It is good to have adaptable life, but that doesnt mean that we have the best of everything. The teams paper was published in the journal Astrobiology. _____ Dirk Schulze-Makuch et al. In Search for a Planet Better than Earth: Top Contenders for a Superhabitable World. Astrobiology, published online September 18, 2020; doi: 10.1089/ast.2019.2161 This article is based on a press-release provided by Washington State University. The union ministry of education on Monday released a detailed guidelines for reopening schools and colleges in the country. Under Unlock 5.0 , the central government allowed schools and colleges to restart in a limited manner, starting from October 15. starting from 15 October. The states have the authority to decide whether they want to resume schools from the next week or not. "Checklist for a safe school environment, as adopted from @UNICEFIndia guideline is provided for schools parents and students to contain the spread of #COVID19," the education minister Ramesh Pokhriyal said. Students are permitted to go to school strictly on voluntary basis. Students will have to get a consent slip from their parents to visit the schools from next week. However, the students and teachers who live in the containment zones, are not allowed to attend schools. "Students may attend schools only with the written consent of parents. There will be flexibility in attendance norms. Students may opt for online classes rather than physically attend school," the education minister said. Schools are encouraged to form task teams such as emergency care support, support/response team, hygiene team with certain responsibilities. While planning the seating arrangements, the authorities must maintain social distancing. The schools are advised to follow staggered entry and exit timings or separate exit and entry gates if feasible. All the coronavirus preventive measures such as maintaining social distancing, covering face with a mask or cover, washing or santising hands need to be strictly followed. Schools must arrange and implement thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all areas, furniture, equipment, stationary, storage, water tanks, kitchens, canteens, washrooms, laboratories, libraries on the campus. Thermal scanners for screening the body temperature of students and teachers are mandatory at the school entrance. Schools are allowed to make an alternative calendar of activities for the whole year. The education institutions can plan the changes in the academic calendar, particularly the breaks and the examination schedules. The new plan may follow the guidelines of Alternative Calendar prepared by the NCERT. Teachers are advised to discuss the clear roadmap of the curriculum, the modes of learning, the dates of assessment with the students. Divergent use of teaching resources are encouraged to maintain social distancing and other safety norms. "No assessment till up to 2-3 weeks of school reopening. Use of #ICT & online learning shall continue to be encouraged. The SOP also provides for guidelines on ensuring emotion well being of students and teachers with a reference drawn to #Manodarpan initiative," the minister further added. PRAGYATA guidelines on online education can be used to orient students and teachers. "If the state has energised textbooks, inform students and parents how to download the e-content," the ministry added. To meet the nutritional requirements of children, the states and union territories are advised to provide hot cooked mid-day meal or its equivalent food security allowances to eligible children during closure of schools and summer vacation, the ministry of education said. The schools and colleges have been shut since mid-March, owing to a nationwide lockdown to curb COVID-19. "States/UTs to prepare their own SOP regarding health and safety precaution for reopening of schools based on the SOP to be issued by DoSEL, @EduMinOfIndia. States/UTs may adopt or adapt the SOP as per local context and requirements," the education minister added. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. The Queensland government has signed a $200million investment deal with Virgin Australia to keep the carrier's headquarters in Brisbane until 2030. The 10-year deal, which involves the state taking an equity stake in the carrier and a series of loans, was signed between the Queensland Investment Corporation and Bain Capital on Monday afternoon. The Labor government sealed the agreement within 24 hours of going into caretaker mode before the October 31 state election. The Queensland government has signed a $200million investment deal with Virgin Australia to keep the carrier's headquarters in Brisbane until 2030 (file picture) The opposition Liberal National Party had threatened to end the talks if it won government and a deal hadn't been struck by the time parliament was dissolved on October 6. A government spokesman told AAP the deal was expected to deliver a seven per cent return over the first five-year loan period. The government also hopes the deal will secure regional air routes in the state, but routes remain an operational matter for Virgin and are not covered by the agreement. The LNP has also promised to reveal with full details of the deal, which are confidential, if it wins the state election. Earlier on Monday, Treasurer Cameron Dick said the government had worked hard to have a second national airline based in the state, especially for regional communities so dependent on competition in aviation. Meanwhile, the Queensland government has announced a partnership with Boeing that will see the first military aircraft to be designed, engineered and manufactured in Australia in more than 50 years. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the partnership meant more high-skilled jobs, local supply opportunities and defence industry stimulus as Queensland continued to recover and grow following the COVID downturn. 'The creation of additional new aerospace capability could see unmanned defence aircraft produced here by the middle of the decade, with prototype testing and certification taking place before that,' she said. 'The unmanned teaming aircraft is Boeing's first military aircraft to be designed and developed outside the US and uses artificial intelligence to extend the capabilities of manned and unmanned platforms.' Mr Dick said Boeing had 1,700 staff in Queensland and supported 400 Queensland-based suppliers. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 19:22:51|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close -- As the organizer of the third China International Import Expo (CIIE) plans to host the event on Nov. 5 as scheduled despite the COVID-19 pandemic, a batch of Estee Lauder products from the United States completed customs clearance in Shanghai on Sept. 28, becoming the first exhibits of the import expo to pass through customs. -- The enlarged business exhibition demand of CIIE shows foreign exhibitors' recognition of the strong attraction of the CIIE and the Chinese market. -- The CIIE Bureau has opened the registration for exhibitors seeking to participate in the fourth CIIE in 2021. Dozens of foreign companies including Hyundai Motor Group, Shiseido, Theland and Michelin have signed with the CIIE Bureau to attend the expo in the next three years. by Xinhua writers Zhou Rui and Fang Ning SHANGHAI, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- In Shanghai, preparations for the third China International Import Expo (CIIE) are in full swing, as the world's first import-themed national-level expo is only one month away. Photo taken on Nov. 10, 2019 shows flower decoration at the south square of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in Shanghai, east China. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) It has been a bumpy year for many global companies as the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world economy. Yet, foreign firms' passion for the upcoming CIIE was not hindered by the pandemic, and the event's business exhibition area will expand to 360,000 square meters from last year's 300,000 square meters to cope with foreign exhibitors' demand, according to Sun Chenghai, vice director of the CIIE Bureau. "The enlarged exhibition demand shows foreign exhibitors' recognition of the strong attraction of the CIIE and the Chinese market," Sun said. IMPORTS ARRIVING AMID EPIDEMIC PREVENTION As the organizer plans to host the expo on Nov. 5 as scheduled despite the COVID-19 pandemic, a batch of Estee Lauder products from the United States completed customs clearance in Shanghai on Sept. 28, becoming the first exhibits of the import expo to pass through customs. On the same day, a comprehensive drill took place at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the venue of the expo. A comprehensive drill is held in preparation for the third CIIE at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in Shanghai, east China, Sept. 28, 2020. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) Shang Yuying, deputy secretary-general of the Shanghai municipal government, said measures used in the last two editions as well as COVID-19 epidemic prevention and control measures will be combined to better the experience of exhibitors and visitors at the third CIIE. "I think that the CIIE will be one of the very few, if not the only exhibition in the world not canceled, and that will take place offline, and I think it sends many very strong signals," L'Oreal CEO Jean-Paul Agon said, adding that it shows the COVID-19 epidemic is under control and things are going back to normal in China, which is crucial because other countries continue struggling with their domestic epidemic. It also shows China is reaffirming its opening-up policy, which is especially important nowadays, Agon added. "I'm sure the management of the CIIE will be done with the utmost care. That's important not only for China, but for the rest of the world, that the pandemic can be managed effectively," said Allan Gabor, president of Merck China. The CIIE Bureau has opened the registration for exhibitors seeking to participate in the fourth CIIE in 2021. Dozens of foreign companies including Hyundai Motor Group, Shiseido, Theland and Michelin have signed with the CIIE Bureau to attend the expo in the next three years. "We're very grateful for the opportunities brought by the CIIE," Sheng Wenhao, CEO of Theland Asia Pacific Region. Benefitting from the Shanghai customs' improved clearance service, the New Zealand dairy company can now have its fresh milk with a shelf life of only 15 days land in Shanghai supermarkets in roughly three days, instead of around seven days, after production and bottling in New Zealand. "Our milk has been made available in remote Chinese small cities like Mohe, a border city in northeast Heilongjiang Province, some 3,000 km away from Shanghai, just a few months after the second CIIE was held last year," said Sheng. The dairy company lost over 80 million yuan (about 11.8 million U.S. dollars) due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the first quarter. With the recovery of the Chinese consumer market and the introduction of government policies to promote consumption including participating in a night fair designed to promote CIIE star exhibits in June, Theland's China sales went up by 55 percent year on year in the second quarter. DUAL CIRCULATION, MORE OPPORTUNITIES As China steps up the promotion of the fruitful outcomes of the first two CIIEs, global enterprises are looking forward to new opportunities brought by the dynamic of "dual circulation," a new economic development pattern floated by the country's top leadership in May encouraging domestic and overseas markets to reinforce each other while taking the domestic market as the mainstay. The Danish toy giant LEGO Group opened its 200th store on the Chinese mainland in Nanchang, capital of east China's Jiangxi Province, on the first day of China's ongoing eight-day National Day holiday. People enter a LEGO store in Shanghai, east China, Oct. 5, 2020. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) The store debuted last Thursday was the first LEGO Certified Store in the province as the company further taps into China's lower-tier cities. Paul Huang, senior vice president of LEGO Group and general manager of LEGO China, said while the COVID-19 pandemic dampened the customer flow into LEGO stores in the short term, the company was able to expand thanks to China's pandemic control measures. LEGO Group's financial report as of June 30 this year shows that its China sales achieved double-digit growth in the first half of 2020 despite COVID-19. "Our plan to open 80 new stores on the Chinese mainland in 2020 remains unchanged, and we'll cover 60 Chinese cities by the end of the year," said Huang. "The fact that the third CIIE will be held offline on schedule has given us more confidence in the Chinese market," he said, adding that the company will use the event as a platform to debut new products, showcase new technologies and share new experiences. As an "old friend" of the CIIE, Metro will participate in the expo for the third consecutive year as an exhibitor, a purchaser and a food supplier. Claude Sarrailh, CEO of Metro China, said as a "star exhibit" at the last two expos, French Charolais beef has not only become a "hot item" in Metro supermarkets, but also driven the overall sales of Metro's imported beef to an increase of 128 percent in the first half of this year. "In order to better adapt to the habits of Chinese consumers, we have also introduced French beef slices that can be used in hotpot and beef cubes suitable for Chinese-style cooking," Sarrailh said. He said Metro will bring exhibits including Spanish ham, French sausages and plant-based meat from over 20 countries and regions to "test the waters" of the Chinese market at the third CIIE. "The recovering speed of Chinese society and economy shows strong resilience and dynamism. Coming through this special year, we are even more confident in the Chinese market," said Sarrailh. He said China's strategy of "dual circulation" is a far-sighted and pragmatic tactic. The company plans to open 35 new concept stores to better meet the needs of Chinese consumers by 2023. Liu Min, deputy director of the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, said from Oct. 8 to Nov. 11, Shanghai will introduce a series of consumption promotion events and create more opportunities for CIIE exhibits. Foreign direct investment (FDI) into the Chinese mainland, in actual use, grew 18.7 percent year on year to 84.13 billion yuan in August, according to China's Ministry of Commerce (MOC). This marked the fifth consecutive month for the country to witness positive growth in FDI. Building on its effective containment of the COVID-19 epidemic, China has rigorously rolled out a string of measures to stabilize foreign trade and investment. The MOC has pledged to significantly increase items on the industry catalog to encourage foreign investment and help foreign-funded firms benefit from preferential policies. Shanghai's detailed measures to encourage foreign investment will take effect on Nov. 1 to better attract FDI. (Video reporters: Sun Qing, Chen Jie, Zhou Rui; Video editor: Liu Yuting) Activist Sumaiyya Rana on Monday alleged she has been put under house arrest for launching a poster campaign against the state government following a spate of crimes against women in Uttar Pradesh. I am being asked not to move out of my house. Since yesterday [Sunday], there is heavy deployment of [police] force at my residence and I am being asked to stay indoors. It is purely an attempt to stop me from launching my poster campaign against the Uttar Pradesh government for its failure in keeping a check on crimes against women, said Sumaiyya Rana, who is Urdu poet Munawwar Ranas daughter. She blamed the government for gagging her. Also read: Rahul Gandhis Facebook page sees 40% more engagement than Narendra Modis Sumaiyya Rana said the government should now release posters of the rapists of the 19-year-old Dalit woman from Hathras, who succumbed to her injuries this week, as it did in case of anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protestors earlier this year. My campaign aimed at putting up banners and posters demanding the early arrest of the rapists in the Hathras and other incidents, and to ask the government to release the posters of the culprits the same way they did with anti-CAA protestors. Sumaiyya Rana, who also led anti CAA- protests, said other women who would launch the campaign in their respective regions. She was also allegedly put under house arrest in September after she gave a call for a protest outside chief minister Yogi Adityanaths residence over unemployment. PK Srivastava, an assistant police commissioner, said he was unaware of the matter since he was at a training programme. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Amitabh Maitra Amitabh Maitra is an assistant editor with Hindustan Times in Lucknow. He has been with HT in Lucknow since 1997. ...view detail NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 5, 2020 / Woman Aerospace and Mechanical Engineer and CEO of Job Platform, Marcela Lopez, utilizes her background in engineering along with her corporate experience to help others discover their dream job and find a company that is the right fit for them. When Marcela Lopez moved to the United States from Colombia at age 9, she had big dreams; even if she didn't know exactly what she wanted to do, she did know that she would want to start her own company one day. Marcela was born and raised in Colombia and learned her trait of great resilience from her parents' example. Her mother grew up poor in a family of fourteen, however, she defied all odds, stereotypes and worked hard to put herself through school to earn her Master's Degree. Marcela's mom was able to establish a career and help her family rise out of poverty and into the upper class lifestyle, but still, life was not easy in Colombia. Marcela and her family grew up in a world where Guerilla Warfare and Pablo Escobar were prevalent. Her own father was shot and fell into a coma for several months. Once her father recovered and was able to leave the hospital, her parents made the decision to make the move to the US for a new life. Leaving behind her mom, as she was the breadwinner, Marcela, her dad, and her sisters moved in hopes of the American dream. The journey wasn't always easy, going through school while learning English as a second language would be difficult for anyone, but Marcela rose to the challenge, going on to get her degree in Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida. Upon graduating, Marcela worked with multiple fortune 500 companies, and while the compensation was alluring, her work place environment was anything but. After experiencing discrimination and mistreatment at the hands of her final team lead, Marcela decided to leave her highpaying job and embark on her own. Although her early career days were difficult, she emerged with a greater understanding of how large companies worked, and how to navigate the corporate world for better earnings and better networking opportunities. Story continues Over the years, Marcela had naturally gravitated towards helping her peers and fellow alumni explore career paths and get hired. Her experience in the corporate world coupled with her background in engineering gave her a keen understanding of what both companies and candidates are looking for during the hiring experience. In late 2017, Marcela took a leap and launched her company, Job Platform, a recruiting and consulting agency dedicated to helping engineers land their dream job with their dream compensation, in less than 60 days. It is one of the world's leading systems in bridging the gap between people who have been let go or who are struggling to find a job and their perfect dream career. Marcela is a peoples' advocate in terms of going beyond just fitting them into an opportunity by also advising the companies as to why that individual is their dream employee. Her legacy is to revolutionize the concept of the job market and opportunity within, starting with the engineering field and going on and beyond into other fields. Today, Marcela has helped more than 200 engineers and technical professionals take their careers to the next level. Her clients range from entry level executives and recent grads all the way to seasoned industry experts who are looking to either elevate their position or transition into a new field. Marcela works with people all over the United States, with the criteria that her clients be motivated, dedicated, and ready to succeed or make the changes necessary to level up. Even during the pandemic of COVID-19, she has helped clients land their dream roles with a time record of just five days to acquire their desired job role. Marcela differs from recruiters in that she does not work for the companies, but rather the candidates. When a recruiter's main client is the company they can often focus far too little on the candidate they are working with and place them into a role that might not be the best fit, simply because it's convenient for them or the company they are contracted by. This leads to job dis-satisfaction and rapid burnout of the candidate. Marcela is on a mission to innovate the recruiting industry globally. Rather than force a candidate into a career that might only last a few months, Marcela actually listens to her client's needs and dreams to find a role that will allow them to develop their skills, be fulfilled, and grow both professionally and personally. From there, she prescribes them with a customized roadmap to land their dream role. Although each dream role is different, Marcela has sustained a success rate of 98%. Recruiting operations should be a fine balance between the individual providing major benefits to the company and the company offering gratification and growth opportunities to the candidate. She is determined to help people achieve their goals in the corporate world, shifting from being jobless to thriving into their ideal role. The strategies and methods that Marcela has expertly implemented within Job Platform have been carefully formatted, tested, and honed to achieve maximum results with her clients. Still though, Marcela is constantly analyzing and pivoting to adapt to new industry trends. She doesn't just match her client's with a job, rather she teaches them the importance of networking, relationships, and mindset to be able to take the next step in their career and continue to do so over the years to come. "Mindset, determination, and motivation are the key to success," says Marcela. She is thrilled with the impact she's had with her clients but she wants to take it to the next level. Presently, she is working on a course that will allow her to reach even more people to show them how to succeed and discover their dream career as a top 1% candidate. While she and her team will continue to work one-on-one with clients, Marcela dreams of being able to help as many clients as possible. As an influencer and visionary, Marcela is dedicated to equipping, establishing and educating clients to get into a career, land their dream job, and get to the next level, all at an accelerated pace. If you're looking to take the next step in your career, there is no better option than Job Platform to first discover your dream and then achieve it. Book A Call with Us To land your dream role now: https://www.job-platform.com/freecareerconsultation https://calendly.com/marcelalopez/15minintro?month=2020-09 Contact Name: Marcela Lopez Business Name: Job Platform Phone Contact: https://calendly.com/marcelalopez/15minintro?month=2020-09 Phone Number Website Link: https://www.job-platform.com/ Email Here SOURCE: Marcela Lopez View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/608679/Thought-Leader-Marcela-Lopez-Is-Revolutionizing-The-Job-Market-By-Empowering-Engineers-And-Technical-Professionals-To-Land-The-Dream-Career-and-Compensation-They-Deserve The virus is spreading as Indonesians are now allowed to move between islands In July, Bali's active cases sat at 1914 before soaring to 3671 in September The confirmed cases are believed to be only a fraction of actual infections A sudden spike in COVID-19 deaths in Bali has sparked fears the holiday island will be among the last destinations Australians can travel to. The typically-bustling resort area of Kuta is now a ghost town, with virus cases soaring after domestic tourism was opened back up on July 31. ADVERTISEMENT At the point Bali's active coronavirus cases sat at 1,914 before climbing to 3,671 in September. Meanwhile deaths increased six-fold with 207 last month. In July, Bali's active coronavirus cases sat at 1914 before soaring to 3671 in September The typically-bustling resort area of Kuta now resembles a ghost town, while the virus continues to spread due to domestic tourism starting back up Confirmed cases are believed to be only a fraction of actual COVID-19 infections, with Indonesia's testing rate among the lowest in the world. 'We don't know where is the virus actually, how to control it,' local epidemiologist Professor Gusti Ngurah Mahardika told 9News. The rise in deaths and case numbers has led to concerns Australians won't be allowed to travel to the party hotspot, with some suggesting tough new restrictions were imminent. 'Bali should be back in lockdown,' Professor Mahardika said. Local business owners are feeling the pinch from the tourism decline. More than 1,200 tourists would normally visit Waterbom Bali's water slides everyday, but due to the pandemic the theme park is temporarily closed. The virus has spread quicker in recent months as Indonesians are now allowed to move between islands The popular Indonesian tourist island began welcoming domestic tourists back on July 31 after its tourism industry was smashed by the pandemic (Pictured: Healthcare workers take blood sample from citizen) 'Tourists gave people a life and it's so sad,' CEO Sayan Gulino said. Driver and father-of-three Wayan Arcayasa was forced to sell his car just to make ends meet. 'Very, very sad honestly because we never know why the virus hit the world and hit us in tourism especially,' he said. Bali began welcoming domestic tourists back after its tourism industry was smashed by the pandemic. And while authorities have put restrictions in place to slow the spread of the deadly disease, the number of cases has continued to rise. Bali now has the fastest-rising death rates from coronavirus in Indonesia. Estimates show numbers have increased by 500 per cent since the island reopened, with 241 COVID-19 related deaths recorded. ADVERTISEMENT Local epidemiologist Dr I Gusti Ngurah Kade Mahardika said reopening the island to Indonesian tourists from outside Bali was to blame. Click here to resize this module 'Bali's reopening has caused a public euphoria for local residents. They think Bali is open now so they're free to do anything and they flock to tourist destinations,' he told the ABC. Each day about 4,000 domestic tourists from Indonesia's mainland flood to the island, which has been fuelling the crisis, Dr Mahardika said. More than 307,000 people have contracted coronavirus in Indonesia, while 11,200 have died. Meanwhile, The Morrison government has piled pressure on states to agree to a national coronavirus-hotspot definition by setting up a limited travel bubble with New Zealand. From October 16, Kiwis will be allowed to enter NSW and the Northern Territory without having to quarantine. Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said signing up to the hotspot definition allowed those jurisdictions to be included in the deal. From October 16, Kiwis will be allowed to enter NSW and the Northern Territory without having to quarantine. Pictured: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern He said exempting New Zealanders from mandatory two-week hotel stays would free up 325 quarantine places a week. 'This trans-Tasman bubble means that there are going to be more places open for more Australians to come home from abroad,' the Nationals leader told reporters in Canberra on Friday. Extending the bubble to Queensland would free up a further 250 hotel spots, he said. The hotspot definition means people from New Zealand are not allowed to enter Australia if they have been anywhere which has recorded more than three cases in three days. ADVERTISEMENT South Australia is likely to be the next to join the bubble when its government signs up to the hotspot definition. Upward curve: Testing centres have been responding to higher case numbers in recent weeks with a total of 977 confirmed cases over the weekend Photo: Collins The entire country is on the brink of the toughest Covid-19 controls after experts recommended Level 5 restrictions for the next four weeks. Under Level 5, people would be asked to stay at home, except to exercise within a 5km radius. No visitors to homes would be allowed. However, schools and creches would remain open with protective measures in place. Restaurants and pubs would be allowed to open only for takeaways or deliveries and only essential retail outlets would stay open. Unlike during the first nationwide lockdown, the over-70s would be expected to manage their own movements and would not be instructed to stay indoors. Read More The National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) is recommending Level 5 restrictions for the next four weeks. The seeking of a maximum lockdown nationwide has shocked the Government. The three Coalition leaders will meet chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan today. The Level 5 restrictions advice comes in a letter from Nphet, after a weekend in which almost 1,000 new infections were recorded. Dr Holohan returned to chair an unusual Sunday conference of the team, a sign that the situation is regarded as highly serious. He had been expected back at his desk today, resuming the helm from Dr Ronan Glynn, his deputy, after taking leave for family reasons in July. There are now 134 people in hospital with Covid-19, the highest number since the end of June. The upward creep in infections effectively now pits the Government against Nphet in a possible crisis for the Cabinet in its consideration of public health advice. Public Expenditure Minister Michael McGrath said yesterday: "It is very difficult and tough on people. But as a Government we have to stand ready. "Further recommendations from Nphet will be examined swiftly." Sources last night initially suggested that the Government would not defy any recommendation from Dr Holohan. But when Level 5 was recommended, there was a stunned reaction from Government with one source saying: "This has surprised Government, given its societal and economic indications." The request for extra restrictions will go to an oversight committee headed by the country's top civil servant, Martin Fraser, which would consider wider societal and economic impacts. The Cabinet subcommittee on Covid could then meet today. An incorporeal Cabinet meeting could then rubber-stamp any proposals. Mr McGrath had said at lunchtime yesterday he sincerely hoped further restrictions would not be necessary. He added, however: "But I think we have to be straight with people. The numbers are deeply concerning and the current trend that we are witnessing is not sustainable. "I know that people are weary. We are all weary. Everyone has paid a price in terms of their own personal liberty. Many have paid a very significant economic price because of the restrictions that we have had to impose, and the overall economic impact of Covid-19. "But we need to get on top of this and we need to do more. We all need to ask ourselves what more can we do to adhere to the public health advice, which we all know at this stage." Business lobby group Ibec last night said that, given the "seriousness of the Nphet recommendations for our economy and society", the evidence underpinning them must be published. "It is intolerable that after six months we are still receiving both vague and changing criteria to advance such serious restrictions," said CEO Danny McCoy. A total of 364 new confirmed cases of the virus were reported yesterday. Including Saturday's figure of 613, the weekend total comes to 977. No new deaths were recorded, with the national toll standing at 1,810 fatalities. There have now been 38,032 confirmed cases of Covid-19, with cases now rising at 4-5pc per day and the R number moving to between 1.2 and 1.4, showing the virus has not been contained. Three-quarters of the new cases are in the age groups under 45 years, with a national incidence rate of 108 per 100,000 over the last fortnight. Lifford/Stranorlar in Donegal has a current rate of 602.6 per 100,000 and Celbridge in Kildare is at 305.2. The Kimmage/Rathmines area of Dublin has a rate of 282.8. Infectious disease specialist Professor Sam McConkey said rapid contact tracing and massive investment in public health was required. Kyrgyz security forces have used rubber bullets, tear gas, and stun grenades against thousands of people gathered in the center of the capital, Bishkek, to protest against the results of parliamentary elections over the weekend that handed victories to parties close to pro-Russian President Sooronbai Jeenbekov. Activists and supporters from 10 parties -- Ata-Meken (Fatherland), Respublika (Republic), Zamandash (Contemporary), the Social Democrats, Chon Kazat (Big Crusade), Meken Yntymagy (Homeland Unity), Bir Bol (Stay United), Yiman Nuru (Ray of the Faith), Ordo (The Horde), and Reforma (Reform) -- gathered in Ala-Too square on October 5, where they alleged the vote from the previous day was rigged, with votes being bought and other irregularities marring the polls. Riot police used force to disperse the crowd after some demonstrators tried to break into government headquarters. Clashes are ongoing near the Government House with sporadic shootings as protesters are trying to go back to the square. Bishkek hospitals reported that they treated more than 120 patients who sustained injures during the violence. Those injured included 40 "representatives of law enforcement," according to the Health Ministry. Janarbek Akaev, leader of Ata-Meken, was also brought to hospital with a leg injury. Live Feed Of Bishkek Protests (RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service, natural sound) Several people were injured, including at least two police officers and Janarbek Akaev, the leader of Ata-Meken, who was taken to hospital with leg injuries. Akaev and the leader of Respublika, Mirlan Jeenchoroev, announced at the rally that leaders of 12 parties had signed a petition requesting that the Central Election Commission annul the official results of the votes by midnight. According to the two politicians, the leaders of two parties, Mekenchil (Patriot) and Butun Kyrgyzstan (United Kyrgyzstan), which won seats in the elections, are signatories to the petition. The commission said the final results would be announced in 20 days. The presidential press service released a statement saying that President Jeenbekov planned to meet on October 6 with the leaders of all 16 political parties that participated in the parliamentary elections. Akaev and Jeenchoroev, announced at the rally that leaders of 12 parties had signed a petition requesting that the Central Election Commission annul the officials results of the votes by midnight. According to the two politicians, leaders of two parties, Mekenchil (Patriot) and Butun Kyrgyzstan (United Kyrgyzstan), which were cited among the winners in the elections, are signatories to the petition. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) appeared to back the opposition claims, saying on October 5 that the Kyrgyz elections were tarnished by "credible allegations of vote-buying." The protesters chanted "President Jeenbekov, must go away!" as opposition leaders pledged to establish a joint opposition coordination center. Protests against the results broke out in other towns and cities, including the northern city of Talas and the central region of Naryn, as well as in the capital. A group of military and law enforcement officials announced that they will call on police and other security structures not to conduct measures against people. Similar protests were held in the northern city of Talas and the central region of Naryn. According to the OSCE, the elections were "generally well run and candidates could campaign freely, but credible allegations of vote-buying remain a serious concern." The OSCE "acknowledges that vote-buying is a serious issue in this country," the head of the OSCE observer mission, Thomas Boserup, told a televised press conference, without providing specific examples. The OSCE also noted that a lack of transparency in campaign financing and a "ban on some forms of donation disadvantaged parties with greater funding constraints." Near-complete preliminary results early on October 5 showed four parties clearing the 7 percent threshold needed to enter the 120-member Jogorku Kenesh, or Supreme Council. The pro-government Birimdik (Unity), a newly formed party, won 24.5 percent of the vote, followed by Mekenim Kyrgyzstan (My Homeland Kyrgyzstan) at 23.88 percent, and Kyrgyzstan at 8.76 percent. The three parties are broadly considered pro-government or of having an interest in maintaining the status quo. Both Birimdik and Mekenim Kyrgyzstan have supported deeper integration with the Moscow-led Eurasian Economic Union and closer security ties with Russia. Butun (United) Kyrgyzstan was alone among opposition parties in overcoming the threshold with 7.13 percent of the vote. The remaining 12 parties in the race failed to receive the required number of votes. The turnout in the election was 56.5 percent. Smaller parties have accused Birimdik, widely considered to be loyal to Jeenbekov, of using administrative resources to promote its candidates, an allegation the party denies. The presidents brother, Asylbek Jeenbekov, and several high-ranking members of the current parliament were among the partys candidates. Mekenim Kyrgyzstan is closely associated with the wealthy and influential Matraimov family. The clans figurehead, Raimbek Matraimov, a former top customs official, was the target of large protests in November and December 2019, with demonstrators demanding a probe into allegations of corruption and massive outflows of cash from the country. Opposition Ata-Meken party leaders called the vote "the dirtiest elections" in the country's history. The party officials said they recorded mass irregularities in all polling stations across the country. Opposition monitors also said they noticed minibuses transporting the same groups of people to several polling stations to cast ballots. In some areas, they have reportedly seen people holding lists of candidates to give to voters. Reforma party leader Klara Sooronkulova said that she was attacked by an unknown man at a polling station in Osh. "There were no signs of the government, state, or police there," Sooronkulova said, adding that all polling stations in Osh were controlled by "members of criminal groups." Since the early 1990s, Kyrgyzstan has been called an "island of democracy" in Central Asia. Criticism of Jeenbekov and the Kyrgyz government was heard frequently on the campaign trail and in the many televised debates held on a range of topics, with pro-government and opposition candidates taking part. The election was seen a test of the country's close ties with Russia, with the Birimdik party, most closely associated with Jeenbekov, touting ties with Russia as part of its campaign pitch. Kyrgyzstan's leadership has been reinforcing its relationship with Russia in recent years under the Moscow-led Eurasian Economic Union and the post-Soviet military alliance of the Collective Security Treaty Organization. Jeenbekov met with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in the Russian city of Sochi just days before the elections, where he denounced opposition movements opposing the close ties as infringing on Kyrgyzstan's independence. The election came as Kyrgyz authorities warn of a rise in COVID-19 infections, with some regions reimposing restrictions on peoples movements. Political parties mostly defied warnings by health authorities and held large gatherings with supporters. With reporting by RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service In a series of posts to Instagram, Mr. Lee called Mr. Byrd our beloved brother and highlighted his roles in his movies. Mr. Byrd was in Mr. Lees Clockers (1995), Girl 6 (1996), Get on the Bus (1996), He Got Game (1998), Bamboozled (2000), Red Hook Summer (2012), Da Sweet Blood of Jesus (2014) and Chi-Raq (2015). He also had a regular role in Mr. Lees recent TV series, Shes Gotta Have It, based on his 1986 film of the same name. Mr. Byrd was a regular on Off Broadway and regional stages, appearing frequently in August Wilson plays, among them The Piano Lesson at San Jose Repertory Theater in California in 2001, Seven Guitars with the St. Louis Black Repertory Company in 2002 and Gem of the Ocean at the Actors Theater of Louisville in Kentucky in 2006. He was a late addition to the Broadway cast of Mr. Wilsons Ma Rainey, taking over the role of Toledo, the reflective, philosophizing piano player in the title characters band. The cast was headed by Whoopi Goldberg in the title role and Charles S. Dutton as the trumpeter Levee. Though the production, which ran for 68 performances, drew mixed reviews, Mr. Byrd and the actors playing two other musicians, Stephen McKinley Henderson and Carl Gordon, drew widespread praise. Mr. Byrd was nominated for the Tony for best featured actor in a play. Thomas Jefferson Byrd is a singular pleasure in the role of Toledo, the verbally fastidious piano player who dispenses nuggets of African history and homegrown philosophy, Charles Isherwood wrote in Variety. The prim set of Byrds mouth and the expressive gymnastics of his eyebrows gently accent Toledos more pompous asides, but he brings the right measure of natural gravity to Toledos more painfully authentic ruminations. The Singapore Grip has finally shown what phrase means with a very racy scene Matthew Webb and his love interest Vera Chiang are reunited in the episode Set during Second World War, drama follows a rich British family in Singapore It's kept viewers in suspense over the meaning of its title, and now The Singapore Grip has finally shown what the phrase signifies with a very racy scene. Episode four of the ITV's WWII drama, which aired last night, saw Matthew Webb (portrayed by Luke Treadaway), the son of a powerful aristocrat (played by Game of Thrones Charles Dance), reunite with his love interest Vera Chiang (Elizabeth Tan). ADVERTISEMENT Little is known of the beautiful and mysterious young woman who was friends with the leading character's father Mr Webb, but the lovers continued to dance around one another until Vera invited Matthew to her home. The stunner performed the Singapore Grip on Matthew, which is a technique used by women to tighten their vagina during sex, with viewers celebrating 'finally' discovering the meaning behind the phrase. Based on the 1978 novel by JG Farrell, which drew on real events, The Singapore Grip is the story of rich Brits living in the Crown colony in the early 1940s until the invasion of the Japan in 1942, one of the key events of the Second World War, throws their lives into turmoil. Scroll down for video It's kept viewers in suspense over the meaning of its title, and now The Singapore Grip has finally shown what the phrase signifies with a very racy scene (pictured) Episode four of the ITV's WWII drama, which aired last night, saw Matthew Webb (pictured) (portrayed by Luke Treadaway), the son of a powerful aristocrat (played by Game of Thrones Charles Dance), reunite with his love interest Vera Chiang (Elizabeth Tan) Click here to resize this module In yesterday's show, Matthew was seen reuniting with his father's friend Vera Chiang after she cared for him in the last episode during his fever. What does the Singapore Grip mean? The Singapore Grip involves the woman using her vaginal muscles to stimulate the mans penis during intercourse, while stationary. The technique is thought to have originated in India and has its background in the traditions of Hindu and Buddhist culture. After Matthew insisted he will help his lover leave Singapore to escape the Japanese invasion, Vera invited Matthew to her home, and when there, the romantic chemistry quickly escalated. Vera takes the lead after admitting that she's 'not so happy with how you like to do this in the West, like a collision between two drunk drivers'. ADVERTISEMENT 'We like to think love is an art,' she explained before showing a shocked Matthew a book of sexual positions. During intercourse, Vera performed the Singapore Grip on Matthew, which is a sexual technique which involves the woman using her vaginal muscles to stimulate a man's penis during intercourse while they remain stationary. 'What was that?' a stunned Matthew questioned, while a smug Vera replied: 'That was the Singapore Grip.' In the series, the term 'Singapore grip' is a running joke, as naive Matthew doesn't know it describes a sexual act and uses it in a variety of other ways, including to describe a type of greeting or a bag. Following the scene, one viewer wrote: 'Oh, so he's found out what it is now!', while another said: 'He's finally going to find out what it is.' Vera performed the Singapore Grip on Matthew, which is a technique used by women to tighten their vagina during sex, with viewers (above) celebrating 'finally' discovering the meaning behind the phrase In yesterday's show, Matthew (pictured) was seen reuniting with his father's friend Vera Chiang after she cared for him in the last episode during his fever Matthew is seen returning to Singapore in the first episode, after the passing of his father Mr Webb (pictured with Elizabeth Tan as Vera Chiang) A third added: 'No wonder he's been desperate to find her again since episode one' and a fourth wrote: 'Lucky, lucky him.' The programme has been widely panned by viewers, with some saying the 'awful' script had left the actors with 'nothing to work with'. 'Is this supposed to be a comedy because the acting and script are very OTT?!' one person wrote. 'Not sure what to make of it. #singaporegrip' ADVERTISEMENT Another added: 'I was looking forward to the Singapore Grip, but am finding it quite boring...very disappointing.' Millennium Bridge closures for repair work Copyright Meg Hoare and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence. Essential repairs will be carried out this month to Millennium Bridge in Douglas. The Department of Infrastructure says the work will start from today between 8pm and 3am Monday to Friday until Saturday October 28. The Bridge will also be closed to traffic between 8am and 5pm on the weekends of October 10-11 and October 24-25. Work is being carried out on the bridge's flap gate. There are growing fears that the COVID-19 pandemic will sharply impact deeply impoverished Guyanas economy and fiscally vital oil boom. Newly appointed President of Guyana Dr. Irfaan Ali recently called on the international community to assist small states like Guyana, which have limited resources and undiversified economies, to overcome the considerable fallout caused by the pandemic. There are considerable fears that the health emergency will significantly impact Guyana and its emerging oil boom. The small South American country, like many of its neighbors, has been disastrously affected by the global pandemic, resultant global economic slowdown and oil price crash. Economists and academics have very real concerns that Guyana will be negatively affected by the oil curse which has derailed good governance and development in many petroleum rich countries. Despite the current headwinds, there are signs that Guyanas offshore oil boom will gain further momentum. Oil giant ExxonMobil almost a month ago announced another notable oil discovery in Guyanas territorial waters, the Redtail-1 well, adding to the global energy majors impressive history of oil discoveries in the country. This comes on the back of the Yellowtail-2 discovery and is Exxons 18th find in offshore Guyana. That will add to the oil majors estimated 8 billion recoverable barrels of oil in the Stabroek Block. During December last year, Exxon started production in the block with the Liza Destiny floating production and offloading vessel which can pump up to 120,000 barrels of crude daily. The company expects its Liza phase-2 project to come online during 2022 and produce up to 220,000 barrels of oil daily. Only days ago, Exxon announced that it will proceed with the Payara project in the Stabroek Block after receiving the required government approvals. That asset is expected to come on-line in 2024 and produce up to 220,000 barrels of petroleum daily using the Prosperity floating production, storage and offloading vessel. That means Exxon could be pumping up to an impressive 560,000 barrels daily from its offshore Guyana assets by the end of 2024. This will give Exxons oil production and ultimately cashflow a healthy boost, particularly once oil prices rebound. More importantly for Guyana, the latest discovery will boost oil reserves and eventually production bolstering fiscal income for its cash strapped government. The IMF, even after allowing for the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic, estimated in April that Guyanas GDP would expand by almost 53% in 2020 because of its offshore oil boom. Related: Venezuelas Crude Oil Industry May Never Recover Exxons latest discovery points to the tremendous oil potential held by the former British colony. Guyanas offshore oil is especially attractive for global energy majors in the current difficult operating environment weighed down by a prolonged price slump. Exxon has described its offshore discoveries as high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs. That indicates it is light sweet low sulfur crude oil, meaning it has a high API gravity greater than 30 and sulfur content less than 0.5%. Demand for light sweet crude is growing because of low refining costs and stricter pollution regulations aimed at reducing emissions from vehicles and ships. The increasing strictness of emission regulations means that higher quality fuels are required, which are more easily produced from light sweet crude. This is particularly important for maritime fuels because of the introduction of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulation 2020, which sets the maximum sulfur content of marine fuels at 0.5%. The introduction of that regulation on 1 January 2020 was partly responsible for the surge in demand from China for Brazils light sweet crude. Another factor underscoring the attractiveness of investing in new offshore projects in Guyana are the low breakeven costs, which are falling at a steady clip as technology, knowledge and drilling practices improve. Initially, offshore projects in Guyana were estimated to have breakeven costs of around $40 per barrel Brent but this has fallen significantly over the last year. Chief Executive John Hess of leading independent oil company Hess, which has a 30% interest in Exxons Stabroek Block, stated in February that the breakeven price for the giant oil field is $35 per barrel. He went on to state that the breakeven price will fall further as the block is developed, estimating that the Liza Phase Two project, which is expected to come online in mid-2022, will have $25 per barrel breakeven price. Breakeven prices could fall even further as drilling techniques improve and further infrastructure is established in the Stabroek Block and Guyanas offshore oil fields. This makes those assets extremely attractive in an operating environment where Brent is trading at around $39 a barrel. Operational profitability will grow at a solid clip when oil prices recover. It has been estimated by several institutions that Brent will recover to at least $60 a barrel during 2021. For these reasons, interest in offshore Guyana from global energy majors will remain strong despite the current oil price slump and COVID-19 pandemic. As oil discoveries in the Stabroek Block increase and breakeven costs fall, there will be considerable incentive for Exxon to continue making significant investments in offshore Guyana to boost its low-cost oil reserves and production. The push by President Alis government to improve the regulation of Guyanas oil industry and how licenses are awarded, including greater transparency as well as environmental protections, will promote Guyanas attractiveness as a destination for investment. For these reasons, the COVID-19 pandemic while sharply impacting Guyana will not derail the former British colonys oil boom. That means Guyana will, as governance is improved under President Alis leadership, benefit greatly from its considerable offshore petroleum potential, which should see its economy grow at a rapid clip and the country avoid oil curse. By Matthew Smith for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: VALHALLA, N.Y., Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- USI Insurance Services (USI), a world leader in risk management, employee benefit and retirement consulting, today announced the impact of its seventh annual USI Gives Back campaign, an award-winning social responsibility program, focused on supporting positive change in local communities. Throughout the summer, team members representing more than 160 USI offices took individual action by completing more than 2,000 volunteer initiatives in local communities throughout the United States and the United Kingdom. The combined impact of these individual volunteer initiatives touched more than 270,000 lives, totaling over 18,000 hours of volunteerism. USIs annual Gives Back campaign is our way of saying thank you to the local communities that have been so instrumental to our success. While COVID-19 health and safety restrictions prevented us from hosting large group volunteer events this year, we decided to extend our 2020 campaign for the entire summer to give team members additional time and flexibility to choose how they would give back in a way that is safe and meaningful to them, stated Kim Van Orman, senior vice president and chief human resources officer for USI. Despite these challenging and uncertain times, I am extremely proud of the unifying spirit and uplifting impact of this years campaign. Our team members did not let the many COVID-19 related obstacles get in their way of making a positive difference in their communities. For additional information on USI Gives Back, visit www.usi.com. About USI USI is one of the largest insurance brokerage and consulting firms in the world, delivering property and casualty, employee benefits, personal risk, program and retirement solutions to large risk management clients, middle market companies, smaller firms and individuals. Headquartered in Valhalla, New York, USI connects over 8,000 industry-leading professionals from approximately 200 offices to serve clients local, national and international needs. USI has become a premier insurance brokerage and consulting firm by leveraging the USI ONE Advantage, an interactive platform that integrates proprietary and innovative client solutions, networked local resources and enterprise-wide collaboration to deliver customized results with positive, bottom line impact. USI attracts best-in-class industry talent with a long history of deep and continuing investment in our local communities. For more information, visit usi.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter. ### Attachment Stakeholders at a forum organized in Bolgatanga in the Upper East Region have called on the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to prioritize issues of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) to improve the wellbeing of the people. Improved WASH is fundamental to the health and wellbeing of the human resources of every nation and promotes accelerated and sustained development, therefore all people must have access to WASH facilities and its related services. They called for the mainstreaming of WASH issues into the annual and Medium-Term Development Plans of the various Assemblies and to allocate enough resources to meet the demands. The stakeholders made the call at a two-day forum organized by WaterAid Ghana, a hygiene and sanitation focused organization, with funding from the Department for International Development (DFID) of the United Kingdom and Unilever. It brought together stakeholders from the Ghana Health Services, Ghana Education Services, Civil Society Organizations, and staff of the Kassena-Nankana West and Bongo District Assemblies as well as community members. The nine-month project dubbed, hygiene behaviour change for COVID-19, is implemented in some districts in the region as part of measures to cause a change in peoples behavior positively, influence policy decisions and contribute to fighting the spread of the novel coronavirus disease. Mr George C. Yorke, the Head of Policy, Advocacy, and Campaigns at WaterAid Ghana, noted that the issues of water and Sanitation were of great concern to Ghana, and special attention was needed to that sector. He noted that a World Health Organization report in 2015 suggested that about 3,600 children below five years die annually in Ghana from diarrhea while the country loses $290 million annually to poor sanitation and $79 million to open defecation. He said in 2013, it was estimated that about 17 million Ghanaians did not have access to safe drinking water and indicated that the issues of water and sanitation could be worse off especially with the emergence of the COVID-19 which had increased demand for WASH services. Ms Fauzia Aliu, the Policy Officer, WaterAid Ghana, said stakeholders especially those in health needed to sustain the advocacy for behavioural change towards issues of WASH and find effective ways of influencing political leaders and policymakers to prioritize WASH, especially for rural communities. This, she noted, would not only improve health care at health facilities and the wellbeing of the community members but would further contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) particularly goal three. Ms Joyce Jambeidu, a Senior Associate with ActionAid Ghana, noted that apart from putting up WASH infrastructure, there was the need to build the capacities of community members and empower them to be able to access the facilities properly. Source: GNA 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 PHOENIX Seven people were arrested in Arizonas capital city during a demonstration against police brutality. Phoenix Police Sgt. Mercedes Fortune said the arrests happened Saturday after a group of protesters who were marching in Phoenix began blocking traffic, news outlets reported. Fortune said protesters were warned repeatedly, but Black Lives Matter Phoenix Metro said in a statement posted Sunday on Facebook that police stalked and ambushed leaders of the organization and other groups when organizers attempted to make sure all the people left the demonstration safely. PHX PD was swift to act with brutality and force intentionally pushing through white allies to tackle and arrest Black leadership, the group said. They had every intention to harass and arrest Black activists tonight and manufacture charges to intimidate protestors. Police said the protesters were arrested on multiple charges, including obstructing a public thoroughfare, hindering prosecution, resisting arrest, possession of marijuana, weapons violation, and aggravated assault. The Black Lives Matter chapter is calling for people to to show up and take action for the release of all protestors who were targeted, surveilled and arrested while driving home. The demonstration on Saturday, which had several hundred people in attendance, was held to honor Dion Johnson and Breonna Taylor, CBS 5 reported. Taylor, a 26-year-old Black woman was fatally shot by police in her Louisville, Kentucky home during a narcotics raid in March. Last month, a Kentucky grand jury brought no charges against Louisville police for her death, a move that sparked protests in several cities across the country. The BJP leadership blamed the Trinamool Congress for the killing, but the ruling party has rubbished the accusation Kolkata: A local BJP leader in West Bengal was shot dead on Sunday by two bike-borne assailants near Titagarh in North 24 Parganas district, police said. The duo opened fire at Manish Shukla, a local councillor, on BT Road in the evening, following which he was taken to a private hospital, where he was declared brought dead, they said. The BJP leadership blamed the Trinamool Congress for the killing, but the ruling party has rubbished the accusation. "It is shameful that the TMC has now started politics of annihilation of political opponents. We don't have any faith in local police as this happened in front of the police station. We want a CBI inquiry," BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said. BJP MP Arjun Singh also held the TMC responsible for Shukla's killing and claimed that shots were fired at him from a carbine. Shukla, who switched over to the saffron party last year, was considered to be close to Singh. Senior TMC leader Nirmal Ghosh said the incident was a result of infighting within the BJP and allegations against his party were baseless. A huge police contingent was rushed to the spot after Shukla was gunned down around 9.30 pm. "We have started an investigation and will look at all possible angles," a senior police officer said. The BJP has called a 12-hour bandh in Barrackpore area on Monday in protest against the incident. Meanwhile, Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed concern over the law and order situation in the state and summoned the Additional Chief Secretary, Home, and the DGP on Monday morning. Vietnams new industrial policy, Resolution No. 23-NQ/TW outlines big goals and solutions to boost industrialization in Vietnam, notably with the ambition to be among the top ASEAN economies in terms of industrial competitiveness. Looking at the current top-performing industries, Vietnam is well on track to achieve its goals However, more needs to be done if the country wants to remain competitive in the future, especially with the advent of Industry 4.0. In September 2020, the Vietnamese government issued an action plan implementing Resolution No 23/NQ/TW, which sets out a national industrial policy until 2030 with a vision towards 2045. The resolution was first signed in March 2018. What are the goals outlined in the policy, and how does Vietnam intend to accomplish these goals? We assess the current status of industrialization in the country, take a closer look at the contents of the national policy and action plan, and identify future opportunities and challenges. Whats in the new industrial policy? The action plan to implement the national industrial development policy contains six main goals: By 2030, the industrial sector will make up over 40 percent of GDP, in which manufacturing and processing industries will account for 30 percent and the manufacturing industry alone account for 20 percent. The value proportion of high-tech products from the manufacturing and processing industries will reach at least 45 percent. The added value of industries will increase by over 8.5 percent annually on average, in which the growth rate of added value of manufacturing and processing will be 10 percent. The average growth rate of labor productivity in the industrial sector will be 7.5 percent. The Competitiveness Industrial Performance index will be among the top three ASEAN countries. The workforce in industrial and service sectors will surpass 70 percent. The action plan also outlines some solutions to achieve the above goals, including the introduction of policies to develop priority industries, create favorable environment for industries, develop businesses and a workforce for the industrial sector, leverage science, technology, and natural resources for industrial development, and clarifying responsibilities and improve the effectiveness of the State and local authorities. To that regard, the action plan also designates specific responsibilities to different ministries. With these specific targets, the Vietnamese government aims to speed up the countrys industrialization process. But where does Vietnam currently stand, and what are its prospects of achieving these objectives? Assessment of industrialization in Vietnam From the period of 2006 to 2016, Vietnam climbed 27 positions in the United Nations Industrial Development Organizations (UNIDO) Competitive Industrial Performance (CIP) Index, which tracks the progress of countries manufacturing sector. This significantly narrowed the gap between Vietnam and the top countries in the region: Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. As such, Vietnam seems well on track to achieve its goal of being among the top three ASEAN countries by 2030. The targets of Resolution No. 23-NQ/TW focus on three key factors: value-added, exports, and job creation. Thus, subsectors that can contribute the most to the aforementioned factors should be prioritized. Food, textile and footwear, electronics, and automobile are the industries that have the highest competitive advantage, and can immensely benefit from greater research and development (R&D), technical innovation, SME, and start-up support, among many other possible interventions to help the country attain its goals. However, while the UNIDOs CIP shows a countrys current manufacturing competitiveness, it does not show their readiness to produce in the future. There are several methods to assess the future trajectory of Vietnams industrial development. Vietnams increasing dependence on foreign inputs and services (such as R&D and marketing) for its exports has decreased its trade in value-added (TiVA), which is created locally. According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), Vietnam imports nearly 8 percent of raw materials, spare parts, and components needed for production. Without supporting industries, dependence on material imports will weaken Vietnams competitiveness and make it difficult to sustain economic growth. Local manufacturers have stepped up to become suppliers of multinational corporations in Vietnam, joining their global supply chains. The government has already introduced decisions that prioritize the development of supporting industries in key sectors: electronics and mechanical engineering, garment and textile, leather and footwear, high-tech, and automotive. Tax incentives and other incentives are also available for manufacturers in the aforementioned sectors. In terms of job creation, Vietnams manufacturing boom added millions of jobs in that industry but when compared with the total number of employees in the country, this represents only a 3 percent increase for the share of manufacturing employment. Low productivity is one of Vietnams main challenges. The majority of the workforce is concentrated in labor-intensive industries such as textile and footwear, which are the first sectors to absorb former agricultural workers. These industries are also highly dependent on FDI and have the high value-added to final stages of production located outside the country at times thus contributing to a decline in productivity. The future: Fourth industrial revolution Though focusing on these tried and true sectors will accelerate industrialization in Vietnam, the country will also need to prepare itself for the advent of Industry 4.0 to stay competitive. Industry 4.0 introduces technologies such as big data, cloud, Internet of Things (IoT), and many more technologies that promise to optimize production processes so that productivity and profits are increased. The first steps of Vietnams digital revolution are already underway. Polices on the development of enabling infrastructure, creative capacities, human resources, and priority sectors and technologies are already in place to achieve the countrys ambitions to be among the top Southeast Asian Nations in the Global Innovation Index (GII) ranking. In 2019, the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) released the draft national strategy on Industry 4.0 and developed a national program to transform Vietnam into a digital society by the next decade. There is a consensus among government, industry players, and intellectuals on the benefits and opportunities of Industry 4.0. Experts stress the importance of having a coherent strategy and the need for collaboration in order to create an ecosystem that supports the creation of advanced technologies. Coordination across ministries and between private and public sectors is especially crucial when dealing with the inevitable challenges that will arise with Industry 4.0 adoption, such as labor displacement and cybersecurity issues. The president of the UK's highest court has spoken out against the 'ignorance and unconscious bias' which needs to be addressed by the courts service. In a searingly honest interview, President of the Supreme Court Lord Reed slammed the lack of diversity among justices 'which cannot be allowed to become shameful if it persists'. Lord Reed, who replaced Lady Hale when she retired in January, told the BBC he hopes to see more judges from black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds before he retires. This comes after black barrister Alexandra Wilson said she was mistaken for the defendant three times in a single day in court. Lord Reed (front, right), who replaced Lady Hale (left) when she retired in January, slammed the lack of diversity among Supreme Court justices. Pictured, Justices of the Supreme Court marking the beginning of the new legal year in 2019 Alexandra Wilson (pictured), 25, from Essex, was mistaken for a defendant three times in the same morning at a magistrates' court Lord Reed told the BBC the treatment of Alexandra Wilson was 'appalling.' Last month Ms Wilson, 25, from Essex, was mistaken for a defendant three times in the same morning at a magistrates' court. She later declared on Twitter 'there must be something about my face that says ''not a barrister''.' Lord Reed said: 'Alexandra Wilson is a very gifted young lawyer, an Oxford graduate who has won umpteen scholarships, and for her to be treated like that was extremely disappointing to say the least.' Lord Reed added there was 'ignorance and unconscious bias which has to be addressed by the courts service.' According to Judicial Diversity Statistics, as of April 2019, some 7% of court judges were BAME. Asian or Asian British accounted for 4% of all court judges and Mixed Ethnicity for 2%. The remaining groups, Black or Black British and Other Ethnic Group, accounted for around 1% each. Ethnicity is self-declared on a non-mandatory basis. As of April 2019, some 86% of court judges, 93% of tribunal judges and 90% of non-legal members of tribunals declared their ethnicity. According to Judicial Diversity Statistics , as of April 2019, some 7% of court judges were BAME Speaking to followers, Ms Wilson, whose chambers are near the Old Bailey, said when she arrived at court the security officer first asked for her name so he could find it on the list of defendants Kevin Sadler, the acting chief executive of Her Majesty's Courts and Tribunals Service, apologised to Ms Wilson and said it was 'totally unacceptable behaviour' and he would be investigating the role of his staff in the incident. Lord Reed was appointed as a justice of the Supreme Court in February 2012 and has served as its deputy president since June 2018. He previously served as a judge in Scotland and sometimes sits as a judge at the European Court of Human Rights and the Hong Kong Court of Final Appeal. He was educated at the universities of Edinburgh and Oxford before qualifying as an advocate in Scotland and a barrister in England and Wales. Lord Reed added he wants the Supreme Court to continue to be seen as 'one of the very top courts in the world whose judgements are cited and followed by other courts around the world'. He was in town to attend the premiere of his new film Crock Of Gold. And Johnny Depp was seen leaving Zurich's international airport in a private jet on Sunday night after having completed promotional work for the film at the city's annual film festival. The Fantastic Beasts actor, 57, was dressed in a typically quirky fashion for the trip, sporting ripped grey jeans, a black jacket and a red neck scarf. Cool cat: Johnny Depp was seen leaving Zurich's international airport in a private jet on Sunday night after having completed promotional work for the film at the city's annual film festival With his signature long hair tied back, Johnny looked suave in a set of dark aviators as he walked across the runway. The Hollywood star carried a peaked cap in his hand, while he had a quirky heart-patterned scarf tucked into his belt. Crock Of Gold - which Johnny produced - is a documentary directed by Julien Temple that tells the story of the Irish band The Pogues. It uses unpublished archive footage and family footage with animation. Quirky: The Fantastic Beasts actor, 57, was dressed in a typically quirky fashion for the trip, sporting ripped grey jeans, a black jacket and a red neck scarf It had its world premiere at the San Sebastian International Film Festival last week and managed to pick up the Special Jury Prize at the prestigious A-list festival in Spain. Johnny was in town for a gala screening in Zurich, and he was seen taking pictures with fans at the airport before he passed through security to leave the country. The Pirates of the Caribbean star had got in trouble earlier in the week after breaking social distancing in order to hug a fan as he arrived in the country. The actor appeared happy to chat and pose for pictures with fans outside the terminal after he touched down in the country. However, the film star appeared to forget about the regulations in place, as he wrapped his arms around the female fan waiting outside. Johnny also stood closely beside the same woman as they posed for a photograph together, as well as a couple of other fans who wanted snaps with the actor. Current government guidance in Switzerland states that people in the country should be keeping a distance of at least 1.5 metres from other people. The rules also state that if it is not possible to maintain that distance, wear a face mask, however Johnny was without a mask at this point. Todays Headlines The most important news stories of the day, curated by Post editors and delivered every morning. Email address By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 was preceded by the rapid collapse of the Stalinist regimes in Eastern Europe and the GDR. The ICFI analyzed the collapse of Stalinism, above all, as a new stage in the crisis of imperialism which had broken at its weakest link: the autarkic, parasitic regimes of Stalinism. The result was the breakup of these deformed workers states into a series of a new nation-states on a capitalist basis. In Yugoslavia, capitalist restoration was accompanied by the systematic fueling of ethnic tensions, resulting in violent ethnic clashes and the intervention of imperialism. The fact that imperialism and the bureaucracies were able to resolve this crisis in their own interests and restore capitalism, testified to the profound damage that Stalinism had done to the socialist consciousness of the working class over the preceding decades. Jazeera Airways launches flights between Dhaka and Kuwait on A320neo. Image: Jazeera Airways Served on the A320neo aircraft, the airline will land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport and will operate flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Kuwait and Wednesdays and Thursdays from Dhaka. Rohit Ramachandran, CEO Jazeera Airways said: We are extremely pleased to be able to open up a route to Dhaka as we climb back out of the difficult times we have all been through. It shows the strength of our airline that we are able to expand our network at this time. We are now able to serve the Bangladeshi community in Kuwait with a direct service and look forward to increasing our frequencies in the future. Parts of the UK - including a number of university cities - could be plunged into local lockdown within days after 'missed' Test and Trace data belatedly revealed soaring infection figures - putting the areas over the threshold for a new three-tier alert system. Cities including Sheffield, Leeds and Oxford are among a dozen areas which have seen their coronavirus infection figures soar following the 'computer glitch', which meant 16,000 cases were missed off Public Health England's reporting system. Residents in Nottingham, which has two universities, have reportedly been told to brace for lockdown measures, according to the Telegraph. The city, which is home to Nottingham University and Nottingham Trent University, was previously not on the Government's Covid 'watch list'. Parts of the UK - including a number of university cities - could be plunged into local lockdown within days after 'missed' Test and Trace data belatedly revealed soaring infection figures - putting the areas over the threshold for a new three-tier alert system Manchester (pictured), Liverpool, Sheffield, Newcastle and Nottingham have all seen huge jumps, in some instances to a rate of 500 cases per 100,000 people The Department for Health (pictured: Health Secretary Matt Hancock) insist the new figures do not impact its watch list or alter current restriction in the area Cities including Sheffield, Leeds and Oxford are among a dozen areas which have seen their coronavirus infection figures soar following the 'computer glitch', which meant 16,000 cases were missed off Public Health England's reporting system. Pictured: Executive Chair of NHS track and Trace Baroness Dido Harding Data from thousands of missing cases revealed that the virus was spreading much faster than previously thought in cities like Manchester, Liverpool and Sheffield A further 33 deaths were announced today, as the Government looks set to unveil a new system to manage lockdown restrictions nationwide As infections continue to rise, tighter measures than those already impacting on millions could be introduced in some of Britain's worst-affected areas Covid contact tracers in race to hunt down thousands of potentially infectious Britons after missed case fiasco By Kate Pickles, Ben Spencer and Dan Martin for the Daily Mail Covid contact tracers were last night desperately trying to hunt down tens of thousands of potentially infectious Britons after the full impact of the IT blunder was laid bare. Ministers admitted yesterday that officials had managed to get in touch with only half of the 16,000 left off the Governments daily tally of confirmed virus cases last week. Estimates have suggested these people could have as many as 50,000 potentially infectious contacts needing to be traced and told to isolate. Ministers were yesterday unable to say how many of those had actually been contacted It means tens of thousands of people could be blissfully unaware they are spreading coronavirus. Yesterday, a furious blame game erupted over the IT glitch that meant 15,841 positive test results were left off last weeks official daily figures for confirmed Covid cases. Public Health England (PHE) admitted it was to blame for the error itself, which was caused astonishingly by an Excel spreadsheet reaching its maximum data size. However, questions were also being asked of the Department of Health, the NHS test-and-trace system and its chief, Dido Harding. The blunder has meant that recorded levels of the virus have suddenly rocketed in parts of the country, with these missing cases suddenly added to local tallies. The row escalated as a further 12,594 confirmed cases of coronavirus were reported today, bringing the total number of cases in the UK to 515,571, while another 19 people lost their lives. The fiasco the latest to beset the Governments corona response has also damaged confidence in the already beleaguered test-and-trace scheme. Forced to address the issue in the Commons yesterday, Matt Hancock blamed an outdated PHE computer system for the mishap and said the blunder should never have happened. The Health Secretary admitted the problem had been identified as far back as July and was in the process of being replaced. He told MPs: This incident should never have happened but the team has acted swiftly to minimise its impact, and now it is critical that we work together to put this right and make sure it never happens again. Efforts to catch up with contact tracing began first thing on Saturday, with an extra 6,500 hours of personnel time used, MPs were told. But by yesterday morning, only 51 per cent of cases had been contacted for a second time so their contacts could be located. Mr Hancock insisted the data had not substantially changed the chief medical officers analysis of how coronavirus was spreading. Advertisement But the updated data reveals the city would have been one of the worst areas in the country last week when compared with the pre-adujsted figures. The Department for Health insist the new figures do not impact its watch list or alter current restriction in the area, according to the paper. It comes as new figures today revealed that cases are rocketing in some of the Norths biggest cities. Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield, Newcastle and Nottingham have all seen huge jumps, in some instances to a rate of 500 cases per 100,000 people. That triggered a fresh round of frenzied speculation about tougher local lockdowns yesterday, with the threat of further restrictions later this week. Manchesters weekly rate more than doubled to 2,927 in the week to October 2 equal to almost 530 cases per 100,000 people. Liverpool was not far behind, with cases per 100,000 jumping from 306 to 487 in a week. Cases in Sheffield almost trebled from just over 100 per 100,000 to 286. In Newcastle, the rate leapt from 268 to 435. Many of the biggest rises are in cities with large student populations. Mr Hancock said outbreaks on campuses would not necessarily lead to tougher restrictions for the wider community if they could be contained. Meanwhile, Covid contact tracers were last night desperately trying to hunt down tens of thousands of potentially infectious Britons after the full impact of the IT blunder was laid bare. Ministers admitted yesterday that officials had managed to get in touch with only half of the 16,000 left off the Governments daily tally of confirmed virus cases last week. Estimates have suggested these people could have as many as 50,000 potentially infectious contacts needing to be traced and told to isolate. Ministers were yesterday unable to say how many of those had actually been contacted It means tens of thousands of people could be blissfully unaware they are spreading coronavirus. Yesterday, a furious blame game erupted over the IT glitch that meant 15,841 positive test results were left off last weeks official daily figures for confirmed Covid cases. Public Health England (PHE) admitted it was to blame for the error itself, which was caused astonishingly by an Excel spreadsheet reaching its maximum data size. However, questions were also being asked of the Department of Health, the NHS test-and-trace system and its chief, Dido Harding. The blunder has meant that recorded levels of the virus have suddenly rocketed in parts of the country, with these missing cases suddenly added to local tallies. The row escalated as a further 12,594 confirmed cases of coronavirus were reported today, bringing the total number of cases in the UK to 515,571, while another 19 people lost their lives. The fiasco the latest to beset the Governments corona response has also damaged confidence in the already beleaguered test-and-trace scheme. Forced to address the issue in the Commons yesterday, Matt Hancock blamed an outdated PHE computer system for the mishap and said the blunder should never have happened. Efforts to catch up with contact tracing began first thing on Saturday, with an extra 6,500 hours of personnel time used, MPs were told Scotland 'heading for two-week lockdown' A national 'circuit breaker' lockdown lasting two weeks is being considered for Scotland this Friday. An NHS source has claimed they have been briefed for it to start at 7pm that day in an effort to curb coronavirus's rampage. But it would come as the First Minister is warned a new national lockdown would take Scotland 'back to square one'. Business leaders have already signalled to Nicola Sturgeon that 'switching the lights of the economy on and off' could be disastrous for the nation. A recent Government report warned there could be another 100,000 job losses by the end of the year. An NHS source revealed last night to the The Sun they had been told another Scottih lockdown was coming. They added: Weve been told to expect it from 7pm on Friday. Advertisement The Health Secretary admitted the problem had been identified as far back as July and was in the process of being replaced. He told MPs: This incident should never have happened but the team has acted swiftly to minimise its impact, and now it is critical that we work together to put this right and make sure it never happens again. Efforts to catch up with contact tracing began first thing on Saturday, with an extra 6,500 hours of personnel time used, MPs were told. But Labours shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said the situation was beyond shambolic and was putting lives at risk. Mr Ashworth said: As many as 48,000 contacts not traced and not isolating. Thousands of people blissfully unaware theyve been exposed to Covid potentially spreading this deadly virus at a time when hospital admissions are increasing and were in the second wave. Experts warned it may take weeks to track down those potentially carrying the virus, while the fallout could be felt for months to come. But by yesterday morning, only 51 per cent of cases had been contacted for a second time so their contacts could be located. Mr Hancock insisted the data had not substantially changed the chief medical officers analysis of how coronavirus was spreading. Professor Chris Whitty had assessed the updated data and concluded no local lockdowns would need to be reassessed, he added. Parts of England could face new lockdown measures within days under new 'Covid alert' system - but ministers ditch traffic light plans Jason Groves, Political Editor for the Daily Mail Parts of England could face draconian new lockdown measures within days under plans for a local Covid alert system. Health Secretary Matt Hancock is expected to unveil details of the three-tier set-up this week in an attempt to make the existing patchwork of restrictions easier to understand. Government sources said the top tier would include tougher restrictions than those currently applied to millions of people living across the North and Midlands. A planned traffic light system of measures will be redesigned after data from thousands of missing cases revealed that the virus was spreading much faster than previously thought in cities like Manchester, Liverpool and Sheffield. Ministers will meet in the coming days to thrash out exactly how far to go. But options include the closure of pubs, restaurants and cinemas, a ban on social mixing outside household groups, and restrictions on overnight stays. Sources refused to rule out the possibility that some towns and cities could be placed immediately into the top tier, despite the fact that death rates remain low. Those areas placed in the higher levels will get extra cash to help them cope. Sources said the Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty told ministers there were signs that the second wave of the pandemic was more localised than the first. It raised the possibility that a national lockdown could be avoided if tough restrictions are imposed in those areas where cases are surging. New figures yesterday revealed that cases are rocketing in some of the Norths biggest cities. Manchesters weekly rate more than doubled to 2,927 in the week to October 2 equal to almost 530 cases per 100,000 people. Liverpool was not far behind, with cases per 100,000 jumping from 306 to 487 in a week. Cases in Sheffield almost trebled from just over 100 per 100,000 to 286. In Newcastle, the rate leapt from 268 to 435. Many of the biggest rises are in cities with large student populations. Mr Hancock said outbreaks on campuses would not necessarily lead to tougher restrictions for the wider community if they could be contained. But last night there was growing concern in government that the spread of the virus in parts of the North is so rapid that further restrictions are inevitable. In a further indication of the growing North-South divide, Germany is now advising travellers they must isolate when they return home if they have visited lockdown areas in northern England. Ministers had planned a new traffic light system to make local lockdowns easier to understand. But the approach has been quietly ditched because of worries it could lead to complacency. The fear was that if people were told they were living in a green-rated area they would take it as a sign that they could go on as normal, a source said. In the Commons yesterday, Mr Hancock said: It is critical that our rules are clear at a local level so the public can be certain what they need to do. Under the three-tier system, all existing local lockdown areas will be placed on alert level two, with similar restrictions on indoor mixing. The rest of the country will be placed on level one, with Britons asked to follow existing social distancing guidelines and laws. Advertisement Rowland Kao, an expert in infectious disease dynamics at Edinburgh University, said technical errors on such systems were always a risk and to expect more in future. He said: While it appears they are now being contacted as a matter of priority, this additional strain on a system already stretched to its limit implies that further delays are likely to occur for other cases where contact tracing is needed. PHE said every single person who was tested initially had received their test result as normal, with all those testing positive told to self-isolate. However, as well as underestimating the scale of the outbreak in the UK, critically the details were not passed to contact tracers, meaning people exposed to the virus were not tracked down. It is not clear what the repercussions of this failure will be, but they are feared to be very serious. PHE officials said the outstanding cases, first acknowledged on Saturday, were transferred to NHS Test and Trace 'immediately' after the issue was resolved and thanked contact tracers for their 'additional efforts' over the weekend to clear the backlog. Meanwhile, today there was growing concern in government that the spread of the virus in parts of the North is so rapid that further restrictions are inevitable. In a further indication of the growing North-South divide, Germany is now advising travellers they must isolate when they return home if they have visited lockdown areas in northern England. Meanwhile, parts of England could face draconian new lockdown measures within days under plans for a local Covid alert system. Health Secretary Matt Hancock is expected to unveil details of the three-tier set-up this week in an attempt to make the existing patchwork of restrictions easier to understand. Government sources said the top tier would include tougher restrictions than those currently applied to millions of people living across the North and Midlands. A planned traffic light system of measures will be redesigned. Ministers had planned the new traffic light system to make local lockdowns easier to understand. But the approach has been quietly ditched because of worries it could lead to complacency. The fear was that if people were told they were living in a green-rated area they would take it as a sign that they could go on as normal, a source said. In the Commons yesterday, Mr Hancock said: It is critical that our rules are clear at a local level so the public can be certain what they need to do. Ministers will meet in the coming days to thrash out exactly how far to go. But options include the closure of pubs, restaurants and cinemas, a ban on social mixing outside household groups, and restrictions on overnight stays. Sources refused to rule out the possibility that some towns and cities could be placed immediately into the top tier, despite the fact that death rates remain low. Those areas placed in the higher levels will get extra cash to help them cope. Under the three-tier system, all existing local lockdown areas will be placed on alert level two, with similar restrictions on indoor mixing. The rest of the country will be placed on level one, with Britons asked to follow existing social distancing guidelines and laws such as the rule of six, the 10pm pub curfew and wearing masks in enclosed spaces. A small number of towns and cities could be placed immediately into tier three, which will require much tougher restrictions. MPs across the North have complained the current system of local lockdowns is confusing and sometimes arbitrary. They are also demanding an exit strategy. Boris Johnson acknowledged yesterday it was still too early to tell if the plethora of recent restrictions was taking effect. He said: All the stuff that has come in, well see whether that starts to work in driving down the virus.' New Test and Trace shambles as malfunctioning phones thwart efforts to find 40,000 contacts of people missed off the database last week NHS coronavirus contact tracers struggled to reach tens of thousands of potentially infectious people yesterday after phone lines crashed following an IT malfunction. As workers attempted to catch up on a backlog of calls to the 16,000 infectious people missed from the database - due to an error caused by an outdated version of Microsoft's Excel on Friday - the communication system began to overload. Ring Central, the call system used by NHS Test and Trace, was said to have cut out mid-call and repeatedly lock workers out of their profiles due to the volume of calls being made by tracers. One contact tracer told The Times that the department had been plagued with 'horrendous IT problems', which included being locked out of the system for '20 to 30 minutes' at a time. She told the publication: 'Ring Central keeps collapsing because there are too many phone calls going on at once.' The phone line fiasco follows what has been an eventful week for IT malfunctions as an outdated version of Microsoft's Excel saw a limit on the amount of data a spreadsheet could hold lead to 15,841 people being left off the Test and Trace 'dashboard'. Advertisement Public Health England's most recently weekly update on Friday which is based on slightly older data than the PA analysis shows only nine local authorities of 149 in England saw their infection rates drop last week. But PHE's computer error means infection rates may be higher in reality. Camden, in London, saw cases fall the most in the week to October 2. Its infection rate how many cases there are per week for every 100,000 people dropped by 70 per cent from 63 in every 100,000 people to 18.7. It now has the lowest infection rate of all 32 London boroughs, according to PHE's surveillance report which takes into account positive tests recorded between September 21 and 27. The 16,0000 cases not counted by PHE occurred between September 25 and October 2. Blackburn with Darwen, considered one of England's coronavirus hotspots throughout the second wave of the pandemic, saw its infection rate drop by 20 per cent in a week, and other 'lockdown' areas including Blackpool, Bolton, Leicester and South Tyneside have seen infections slow down. The majority of places under tougher Covid-19 restrictions across the North and Midlands, banned from seeing friends and family in either their home or pub, have not seen cases reduce for several weeks, meaning they are unlikely to be released from the grips of tougher measures any time soon. Leicester, the first place in England to be subjected to a 'local lockdown' at the end of June, has never been able to return to normality like the rest of England despite its infection rate almost halving from 140 to 89 now. It even hit a low of 25 in early September. It comes after calls for ministers to publish their criteria for deciding when an area has reached the threshold for a lockdown and when it will be able to leave, with Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham saying lockdowns are like 'Hotel California' because, like The Eagles song, 'once you're in, you can never leave'. Snowmass Base Village. Some facets of the future development of the base area project will be impacted by an amendment that the Snowmass Village Town Council will scrutinize Monday night. Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. CTS Notice on Calling an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of City Service SE The Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders (hereinafter, the Meeting) of City Service SE (Societas Europaea), corporate ID code: 12827710, registered address: Narva mnt 5, Tallinn, Harju county, 10117, the Republic of Estonia (hereinafter, the Company), is convened by the Management Board of the Company. Meeting date and time. The date of the Meeting is 28 October 2020, Wednesday; time 09:00, registration starts at 08:30. Meeting place. The Meeting shall take place at the Vilnius office of the Company, at Ozo st. 12A, Vilnius, the Republic of Lithuania (Business Center Technopolis, building Penta the 6th floor). Meeting agenda. The Supervisory Board determined the following agenda of the Meeting: 1. The amendment of the profit distribution decision approved by the Annual General Meeting held on 26 of June 2020 and additional distribution of profit of City Service SE. Availability of draft resolutions. Draft resolutions of the Meeting are available for examination on the website of the Company at www.cityservice.eu. Shareholders can also examine the draft resolutions of the Meeting and other mentioned documents during business hours from 09:00 till 12:00 every working day until the Meeting at the following addresses: in Lithuania the Companys Vilnius office at Ozo str. 12A, Vilnius, the Republic of Lithuania; in Estonia the office of law firm TECH x LEGAL Advokaadiburoo OU, address Kopli 25A, Tallinn,the Republic of Estonia. The minutes of the Meeting shall be made accessible to the shareholders after seven days following the Meeting day at the Companys website. Eligibility of shareholders. The total number of the Companys shares and the number of shares granting voting rights during the Meeting is the same and amounts to 31,610,000. ISIN code of the Companys shares is EE3100126368. The list of shareholders entitled to take part in the Meeting shall be determined as at 23:59 on 21 October 2020. Representation of shareholders. The shareholders will have to submit the following documents for the registration as participants of the Meeting: 1. Shareholders (natural persons): his/her identity document (passport or ID card). 2. Representatives of shareholders (natural persons): his/her identity document (passport or ID card) and a duly signed written power of attorney issued by the shareholder. 3. Representatives of shareholders (legal persons): in case of representation by law certified extract (or other similar document) from relevant commercial registry of the country where the legal person is registered providing information on a right of representation and identity document of the representative (passport or ID card); in case of authorized representation certified extract mentioned above, identity document of the representative (passport or ID card) and a written power of attorney duly issued by the legal representative of the shareholder. 4. Shareholders whose shares are held through the nominee accounts: his/her identity document (passport or ID card) and a duly signed written power of attorney issued by the holder of the nominee account opened with the Estonian central depository for securities indicating the number of shares owned by the shareholder. Please be informed that shareholders, who are entitled to participate at the Meeting, can authorize by electronic means a natural or legal person to attend and vote on behalf of them at the Meeting. Power of attorney that is digitally signed by the shareholder must be submitted via e-mail to robertas.ratkevicius@cityservice.eu not later than by 23 October 2020 (17:00). At the Meeting the authorized person shall have the same rights as a represented shareholder, unless the authorized persons rights are limited by the power of attorney or by law. Documents issued in a foreign country must be translated either into English, Lithuanian or Estonian and legalized in the manner established by the law. Voting by general ballot paper. A shareholder or his proxy may vote in writing by filling in a general ballot paper, in such a case the requirement to deliver a personal identity document does not apply. The form of a general ballot paper is presented on the Companys website. Upon a shareholders request, the Company shall send the general ballot paper to the requesting shareholder by registered mail or shall deliver it in person against signature no later than 10 days prior to the Meeting free of charge. If the person who had completed the general ballot paper is not a shareholder, the completed general ballot paper must be accompanied by a document confirming the right to vote. The duly completed general ballot paper should be sent by e-mail to robertas.ratkevicius@cityservice.eu or delivered directly to the Companys Vilnius office at Ozo str. 12A, Vilnius, the Republic of Lithuania, not later than by 23 October 2020 (17:00). The Company reserves the right not to include the shareholders vote, if the general ballot paper does not meet the requirements of paragraphs 5.8 and 5.9 of the Statutes of the Company or if the general ballot paper is written in a way that it is impossible to establish shareholders will on a separate issue. Right to supplement agenda. Please be informed that shareholders whose shares represent at least 1/20 of the share capital of the Company may demand inclusion of additional issues on the agenda of the Meeting if the respective demand has been submitted in writing or by e-mail to robertas.ratkevicius@cityservice.eu no later than by 12 October 2020 (17:00). Shareholders whose shares represent at least 1/20 of the share capital of the Company may submit to the Company draft resolutions in respect to each item on the agenda in writing or by e-mail to robertas.ratkevicius@cityservice.eu by 23 October 2020 (17:00). Right to receive information. Shareholders will have the right to receive information about the activities of the Company at the Meeting. Questions may be submitted before the Meeting by e-mail to robertas.ratkevicius@cityservice.eu or delivered directly to the Companys Vilnius office at Ozo str. 12A, Vilnius, the Republic of Lithuania. Please be informed that the management may refuse to answer the shareholders questions if it can significantly damage the interests of the Company. Additional information is provided by tel.: +370 5 239 4900 and on the website www.cityservice.eu. It resumed production for the second series in August after the coronavirus pandemic halted filming. And Henry Cavill has posed as his character Geralt of Rivia in new The Witcher 2 stills ahead of the upcoming second season. The actor, 37, looked worlds away from his usual clean shaven and slicked back brunette hair. New show stills: Henry Cavill has posed as his character Geralt of Rivia in new The Witcher 2 stills ahead of the upcoming second season Henry wore a long curly silver wig, which was styled into a halfback hairdo, and rocked matching coloured stubble. Wearing black armour which highlighted his toned physique, the actor as his character posed with a sword. Posting the two pictures to his Instagram account, Henry penned: '''It may turn out,'' said the white-haired man a moment later, ''that their comrades or cronies may ask what befell these evil men. ''Tell them the Wolf bit them. The White Wolf. And add that they should keep glancing over their shoulders. One day they'll look back and see the Wolf.'' - From the writings of Andrzej Sapkowski @WitcherNetflix #Witcher2.' Exciting: Henry wore a long curly silver wig, which was styled into a halfback hairdo, and rocked matching coloured stubble The Witcher's own and official Instagram account also posted the pictures, they captioned them: 'Good day to everyone in Blaviken who told Geralt that he needed new clothes. And what will destiny bring tomorrow?' Fans were quick to share their excitement with one fan saying: 'Looking forward to season 2!! can't wait such a great show!' Another person commenting: 'SO EXCITED FOR WITCHER S2!!!!!!!' A different account saying: 'Season 2 please season twooooooo.' Worlds away! The actor, 37, looked worlds away from his usual clean shaven and slicked back brunette hair While another viewer added: 'Season 2 release date,' followed by a crying face emoji. In August fans were left delighted after The Witcher resumed production for its second series. Filming on the Netflix fantasy drama, starring Henry, had to be put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic. But Stephen Surjik, who directed two episodes in its first season, told fans on Wednesday the show was up and running again. Fans: Fans were quick to share their excitement with one fan saying: 'Looking forward to season 2!! can't wait such a great show!' Sharing a snap on Instagram, he said: 'It's T minus 3 min to ignition and lift off for our second run at Witcher S2. Everyone is being cautious but spirits are high.' He said the cast and crew are having to maintain social distance on set amid the new restrictions. The show's resumption is even earlier than Netflix had indicated back in June. The Witcher's Twitter account said the cast and crew would reunite on August 17 as they announced the news in the form of a Jaskier poem. They said: 'I'm dusting off my lute and quill/I have some news, some mead to spill. After all the months we've been apart/It's time for production to restart. The Witcher and his bard - who's flawless/Will reunite on set 17 August.' Underway: In August fans were left delighted after The Witcher resumed production for its second series The release date for the highly-anticipated second series is not yet known. It was commissioned by Netflix before the first series had even aired last year as the streaming site predicted its popularity. An incredible 76 million households watched the show, a record for a first season on Netflix. It comes after Netflix announced last month they were making a prequel series to The Witcher, called Blood Origin. The limited six-part live action series will be set in the Elven world around 1,200 years before the Netflix original and is based on The Witcher fiction books created by Andrzej Sapkowski. The first series was shot in Budapest and was released in December 2019, whereas Blood Origin will begin shooting in the UK and no official release date has been announced. The original Netflix show followed the journey of the Witcher, Geralt of Rivia [Cavill] a mutated monster hunter who travels across the mythical land on his quest to slay monstrous beasts. Geralt is one of the few remaining Witchers on the continent and he struggles to find his way in the wicked world as he is often misunderstood by others. WASHINGTON Rising temperatures are widening the racial achievement gap in United States schools, new research suggests, offering the latest evidence that the burdens of climate change fall disproportionately on people of color. In a paper published Monday in the journal Nature Human Behavior, researchers found that students performed worse on standardized tests for every additional day of 80 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, even after controlling for other factors. Those effects held across 58 countries, suggesting a fundamental link between heat exposure and reduced learning. But when the researchers looked specifically at the United States, using more granular data to break down the effect on test scores by race, they found something surprising: The detrimental impact of heat seemed to affect only Black and Hispanic students. R. Jisung Park, the papers lead author and an assistant professor of public policy at the University of California, Los Angeles, said the gap seemed to reflect the fact that minority students are less likely to have air-conditioning at school and at home. Being exposed to higher temperatures throughout the school year appears to take a gradual and cumulative toll on those students ability to absorb their lessons, he said. New Delhi: Voting was underway at the polling booth number 8 in Goas Margao constituency on Tuesday morning. Polling at booth number 8 at the government primary school in Aquem, Margao, was cancelled after election officials posted at the booth failed to delete the sample votes which were logged in the electronic voting machines (EVMs). At least 46 per cent of voting was registered by 12 noon in re-polling at booth no 8 of Goa's Margao constituency. According to electoral procedures, sample votes have to be deleted before the actual voting begins. Following this, the Election Commission on Sunday ordered re-polling on February 7. In a letter addressed to the Goas Chief Electoral Officer, Secretary to the Commission Sumit Mukherjee also instructed that the political parties and their candidates be informed in writing about the fresh poll. "Please ensure that wide publicity is done about it in media and also by beating drums (davandi) in the areas of that polling station," Mr Mukherjee directed on Sunday. According to final figures released by the election officials in Goa on Sunday, the overall voting percentage in Goa (excluding the count of votes in the polling booth scheduled for repoll) for the Assembly election was at 82.23%. 251 candidates were contesting the State assembly elections, while 11.10 lakh voters were eligible to cast ballot. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. The Republic could lose over 35,500 jobs at companies directly or indirectly involved with exporting to the UK in the event of a no-deal Brexit, according to a German economic research group The Republic could lose over 35,500 jobs at companies directly or indirectly involved with exporting to the UK in the event of a no-deal Brexit, according to a German economic research group. The research, which was shared with the Sunday Independent, was compiled by the Halle Institute for Economic Research. It is an update on an initial report from February 2019 and is still being peer-reviewed, with publication due in weeks. In the research, which assumes trade between the UK and EU would follow World Trade Organisation rules, the Halle Institute found that around 700,000 jobs would be at risk across the bloc. The number rose to over one million when including non-EU countries. The research found that Germany faces the highest number of job losses, with over 176,000 jobs at risk. Relative to total employment, Malta and the Republic of Ireland were found to be the worst affected. The reduction of trade with the UK may affect 3.4% of all employed persons in Malta and 1.9% in Ireland. Researchers also found that Irish exports to the UK could fall by as much as 45%. The analysis found that Ireland's agriculture and food production sectors were most exposed to a hard Brexit. It also found that the northern and western region was most exposed in the Republic. Boris Johnson has urged the European Union to be "common-sensical", insisting that a post-Brexit trade deal was within grasp. He told BBC Midlands there was "every chance to get a deal", adding: "It's up to our friends and partners to be common-sensical." Speaking to BBCNI, he added: "They've done a deal with Canada of a kind that we want, why shouldn't they do it with us? We're so near, we've been members for 45 years. It's all there, it's just up to them." European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said she believed a deal was still possible but warned that time was running out. More than 1,000 residents of Montreal gathered in the city center on October 4 in support of peace in Artsakh amid the escalation of the conflict, CTV News reported. As the agency notes, among those present at the Sunday rally was Liberal MP Annie Koutrakis, who expressed support for Artsakh on her Twitter. "Today, I joined Montreal's rally to support Armenia and the Republic of Artsakh. The Armenian community has shown strength and courage in the face of violence. I will always stand in solidarity with Armenians both in Canada and around the world," she said. Police have used force to disperse demonstrators, including stun grenades, tear gas, and water cannon. Kyrgyzstan's capital Bishkek and other cities across country are seeing protests following Sunday's parliamentary election that many believe was unfair. Police have used force to disperse demonstrators, including stun grenades, tear gas, and water cannon, the BBC reports. "It seems like utter chaos here in Bishkek," said Al Jazeera's Charles Stratford, reporting from the capital Bishkek. "We've seen protesters gathered there [outside parliament] throughout the day, estimates of numbers anywhere between five and ten thousand people crammed in the main square protesting over these elections results." Reports are also coming in of injuries both among the protesters and the police. One opposition leader, Janar Akaev, is among those injured, BBC wrote. Read alsoU.S. Treasury sanctions eight Belarus officials for undermining democracyThe demonstration was largely peaceful for most of the day. But at about 20:10 local time, a smaller group of protesters splintered off and went to the parliamentary building, known as the White House. When they got there they reportedly tried to break into the gates of the building. This is what triggered the police response. The police had said that they wouldn't interfere in the protests as long as they stayed peaceful - but this was seen as a provocative act. Only four parties out of 16 passed the 7% barrier to make it to parliament, including three with close ties to President Sooronbai Jeenbekov, BBC reported. Read alsoEU on Belarus' call to withdraw diplomatic missions: "Unfounded and regrettable"International monitors have said the claims of vote-buying and intimidation are "credible" and a cause for "serious concern." Meanwhile, the country's opposition parties have declared that they will not recognize the results of the election. Kyrgyzstan: Background Ohio Senate 24th District incumbent Republican Matt Dolan is facing off against Democratic challenger Tom Jackson in the Nov. 3 general election. The 24th District represents part of Cuyahoga County. Communities in this district include Highland Heights, Lyndhurst, Mayfield Village and Chagrin Falls. The winning candidate will serve a four-year term in the Ohio Senate, with the term beginning Jan. 1, 2021. The 2021 base salary for state senators is $67,493. The News-Herald sent questionnaires to the candidates. Here is some of what they had to say: Matt Dolan Dolan, 55, a Chagrin Falls resident, is seeking a second term in the Ohio Senate. He has served as the 24th Districts senator since 2017. Previously he served as a state representative from 2005 to 2010. He is also an attorney at Thrasher, Dinsmore & Dolan. If reelected, Dolan said he will continue to create an vibrant business climate while strategically investing in in public programs that improve the quality of life and provides opportunity for all Ohioans. During his time in office, Dolan said he has been responsible for two operating budgets. From lowering our states income tax and protecting the small business tax credit to private/public workforce development programs to investing in lead pipe mitigation, suicide prevention programs and clean water initiatives, the budgets reflect my approach to public service, he said. Dolan also said that the state will need to continue its scientific approach to fighting the novel coronavirus while rebuilding the strength of the economy. He said he wants to continue to focus on alternative development, investments in new technologies and the creation of a true water economy in Northeast Ohio. I want the opportunity to do more, Dolan said. I have the tested leadership, experience and the capability to guide Ohio during these difficult political times and challenging policy decisions. Tom Jackson Jackson, 56, of Solon, is seeking his first elected office experience. He is an account executive at Leverity Insurance Group. If elected, Jackson said he wants to work to ensure every child receives an excellent education, invest in public schools and colleges, and demand accountability for all schools receiving public funds and vouchers. I support House Bill 305 which would drastically improve the unconstitutional school funding formula, eliminate the transfer of funds from public to private schools, and reduce schools reliance on property tax levies, Jackson said. By investing in education, Ohio will no longer be ranked in the bottom half of states for education. He said he also wants to work to balance the budget and modernize the tax code to close unnecessary loopholes and improve the match between workers skills and employers needs. Jackson said he supports investing in reliable infrastructure and creating connected communities. He said his city, Solon, is the largest employer in the senate district, but struggles to find workers because the public transportation system is in sufficient. I take challenges head-on and focus on fixing problems, he said. I will bring this same approach to the Ohio Senate. I promise to work with others to achieve significant progress. And if I can get Ohio going in the right direction, Im all in. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 21:30:51|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close COLOMBO, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), on Monday said it had launched an investigation after at least 10 dead turtles were washed ashore on the beaches of capital Colombo over the weekend, local media reported here Monday. Concerns were raised after the carcasses of three turtles were found on the Mount Lavinia beach on Saturday while on Sunday five more dead turtles were found washed onto the Galle Face beach while another two were found in pretty much the same condition on the Wellawatte beach. M.G.C. Sooriyabandara, Director General of the DWC, quoted in the local Daily Mirror said that a court order would be sought to obtain experts' opinions to figure out the cause of events. He further said thousands of turtles swim ashore on Sri Lankan beaches to lay eggs during the nesting season and it was common to find a few dead turtles after they get entangled in fishing nets. However, he added that finding such a large number of carcasses will be investigated. Enditem Read more: Chubb calls for US government and insurers to team up on pandemic costs Addressing Rep. Maloney in a recent panel discussion about the PRIA, Chubb Group general counsel and executive vice president, Joseph Wayland, said: The extraordinary disruption of social and economic life that occurred in response to COVID-19 gave rise to economic losses that are just simply too great to be insurable by the private sector. Most of the trillions of dollars of lost income for businesses and their employees in the US and around the globe was not and could not have been insured. The economic response to catastrophes of this magnitude, therefore, must be borne primarily by governments. So, were very gratified and excited by the recognition in PRIA, that the ultimate responsibility for this kind of catastrophe lies with the government. And we also agree that its essential to immediately develop a program that will provide certainty about relief to our businesses - particularly small businesses, to keep their employees on the payroll, to pay rent and other expenses. While Chubb believes the government must take on a lions share of the work, Wayland stressed that the private insurance industry must also take on a share of the risk. He pointed to the proposal released by Chubb in July which seeks a public-private risk sharing partnership to deal with catastrophic pandemic events of the future. Chubbs proposed public-private partnership is slightly different to PRIA in that it differentiates between sizes of business. The insurer argues that small businesses should get different, more immediate, help than medium and large sized companies, who often have better financial resources and business contingencies to cope with systemic events. Read next: Worlds insurers await massive COVID-19 verdict We think that small businesses face different [challenges], said Wayland. The effect of a pandemic on small business can be very different. Many small businesses shut down immediately [impacted by] government shutdowns, as opposed to larger businesses which continued to work. So, effect is one thing, and resources is another. A lot of small businesses simply dont have the access to capital or access to other kinds of resources that would allow them to continue. Chubb has proposed that small businesses should get an immediate cash infusion based on a parametric approach. This would give small businesses peace of mind with the knowledge that they will receive a fixed sum should one of the pandemic-related parametric triggers for example, mandatory government shutdowns - be met. That process, according to Wayland, would keep more people employed and it would save small businesses from having to go through the business interruption claim process, which typically takes a long time. Thats different than what we think is needed for medium and large-sized businesses, which have additional resources and can go into a more normal claims process, Wayland added. Both programs will be backed by the government, both require public-private partnership, but we think its very, very important to make that distinction between the two groups of businesses. Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 19 governorship election Edo State, on Monday , said his party will not challenge the outcome of the exercise at the election petitions tribunal. Mr Ize-Iyamu, however, said his party will pursue two pre-election cases already before the court to the fullest as part of efforts to challenge the victory of Godwin Obaseki, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the election. Mr Ize-Iyamu said the APC will pursue the cases to logical conclusions because the PDP also has 13 pre-election matters against his party. The APC governorship candidate in the just-concluded election also said in a statement on Monday that contrary to media reports, the election was neither free nor fair, adding that there were several episodes of violence, voter intimidation and falsification of results. Mr Obaseki was declared the winner of the contest by the Independent National Electoral Commission having polled 307,955 to defeat his Mr Ize-Iyamu, who had 223,619. But Mr Ize-Iyamu said he decided not to commence an election petition to avoid further tension in the state. He said the APC was mindful that its leadership and many well-placed individuals had made pronouncements endorsing the process, which we have chosen to respect. Mr Ize-Iyamu said, Contrary to orchestrated media reports, the election was neither free nor fair. There were several episodes of violence, voter intimidation, and falsification of results. In particular, there were unlawful cancellations of results particularly from Urhonigbe South and North in Orhionmwon, while results were falsified from many polling units in Ofunama in Ovia South West, and in parts of Ovia North East, Owan West, Oredo, Egor, Ikpoba-Okha, Esan North East, Esan West, Esan South East, and Uhunmwode Local Government Areas. Sadly, two persons were killed during the election, while gun-wielding thugs took over collation centres in many locations without the intervention of law-enforcement agents. There were also several cases of malfunctioning card readers, which disenfranchised duly registered voters, in addition to many cases of unregistered voters voting with pre-purchased voters cards not collected by their actual owners. These malpractices could easily form the basis to challenge the election results. We have however decided not to commence an election petition. This is to avoid further tension in the state. We are also mindful that the leadership of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and many well-placed individuals have made pronouncements endorsing the process, which we have chosen to respect. Nonetheless, we must emphasise that elections are far more than actual voting, just as democracy includes more than just elections. It is in this light that we draw attention to the fact that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its flag bearers have continued to pursue several pre-election suits in various courts against us, all totalling 13. One such case came up in the High Court, Benin on 2nd October 2020, days after the election. On our part, we had filed two pre-election cases against the PDP and its flag bearer challenging their eligibility to contest the election. These are all lawful and integral parts of the electoral process in any democracy, which we must all respect and acknowledge as genuine democrats. The outcome of these pending cases has a direct effect on the election. Consequently, we have decided to continue with our pre-election cases in full exercise of our legal rights, just as our opponents have considered it their prerogative to also continue with their pre-election cases against us. Mr Ize-Iyamu thanked President Muhammadu Buhari for his statesmanship and support throughout the election period. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds. Ted Diadiun once again demonstrated the truth of this quote in his Oct. 4 column endorsing President Donald Trump (With all his bully and bluster, were still better off with Trump). To highlight the paucity of his thinking, Diadiun completely ignored Trumps weak and reckless leadership in response to COVID-19. He praised the economic gains made before the pandemic while ignoring the current state of the economy. He ignored how Trumps gains are less than President Barack Obamas on job numbers. While praising Trumps foreign policy moves, Diadiun ignores how the United States' standing in the world, and among our allies, has reached all-time lows. He also ignores Trumps preference for and desire to emulate strongmen in Russia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Israel. He glosses over Trumps refusal to condemn white supremacy at the debate and ignores Trumps own words and actions of racial insensitivity throughout his lifetime. It is clear what a thinking person should do with Ted Diadiuns endorsement of Donald J. Trump for president. Since Ted ignored reason to calm the foolish consistency of radical conservatism raging among the hobgoblins in his mind, we should simply ignore his endorsement. Tony DiBiasio, Westlake Police have made a public appeal in the search for a Federal Circuit Court judge missing near bushland in Brisbane's west for more than 24 hours. Judge Guy Andrew, who was moved from Townsville to Brisbane last month amid conduct concerns, was last seen at his home early on Sunday. Police have made a public appeal for information in the search for Guy Andrew. Credit:Queensland Police Service Investigations suggested he had driven towards Mount Coot-tha, where he regularly took a morning walk, but he had not been seen since, police said. After a missing person report was filed, Judge Andrew's car was found at Dillon Road about 2pm on Sunday. State Emergency Service personnel joined police in a ground search of the area, which resumed on Monday. A Northrop Grumman Cygnus supply ship wrapped up an automated rendezvous with the International Space Station early Monday, bringing 7,800 pounds of cargo the outpost including research materials, a redesigned "female-friendly" toilet and a high-resolution virtual reality camera. Sailing high above Egypt and the Gulf of Suez, commander Chris Cassidy, operating the lab's robot arm, locked onto a grapple fixture at the base of the Cygnus at 5:32 a.m. EDT, two-and-a-half days after its launch atop an Antares rocket from Wallops Island, Virginia. Northrop Grumman names its cargo ships, and the latest honored astronaut Kalpana Chawla, who lost her life aboard the space shuttle Columbia. Northrop Grumman's Cygnus cargo ship was captured by the International Space Station's robot arm early Monday as the two spacecraft sailed high above the Middle East. / Credit: NASA TV "In the name of space exploration, all have given some, some have given all," Cassidy said after capturing the cargo ship. "It's an honor to welcome the good ship Kalpana Chawla, KC as we knew her. Welcome aboard the International Space Station, KC." With the cargo ship secured, Cassidy turned over arm operations to flight controllers at the Johnson Space Center in Houston who remotely pulled the Cygnus in for berthing at the Earth-facing port of the central Unity module. The unpiloted cargo ship was loaded with four tons of supplies and equipment, including crew food and clothing, experiment hardware and material, the virtual reality camera, the new toilet and even samples of Estee Lauder skin cream that will be used in a commercial photo shoot for the company's social media platforms. The $23 million toilet, or "universal waste management system," is smaller and more sophisticated than the station's current potty and includes modifications to make it easier for female astronauts to use. Assuming it works as planned aboard the lab, NASA plans to install the new units in Orion capsules for deep space flights to the moon and beyond. "We're really excited about this new toilet," said Jim Fuller of Collins Aerospace, builder of the compact device. "I don't think we've developed a new toilet in a couple decades. So we're all really excited about flying this on (Cygnus)." Story continues A new space toilet is among the cargo heading for the International Space Station aboard the Cygnus cargo ship. The zero-gravity potty features a variety of upgrades, including more female-friendly accommodations. / Credit: NASA The 360-degree virtual reality camera was provided by Felix and Paul Studios, which is producing a documentary about life aboard the space station. The camera will be mounted on the station's robot arm to capture an upcoming spacewalk from a new perspective. "We will film a full spacewalk from the moment the astronauts come out of the station to the moment that they go back in, and audiences will feel like they are truly there, up there floating in the vacuum of space alongside the astronauts," said Felix Lajeunesse, co-founder and creative director. "Everything is going to be done remotely, and the astronauts won't have to actually worry about the camera," he said. "We will bring the camera relatively close to the work sites ... so that once you're immersed in virtual reality, you feel like you are right there with them, you feel like you are a participant in the action." With the Cygnus safely captured, the station's three-man crew Cassidy, Anatoly Ivanishin and Ivan Vagner will begin wrapping up their 196-day mission and preparing the lab complex for the arrival of their replacements aboard a Russian ferry ship. Cosmonauts Sergey Ryzhikov, Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and NASA astronaut Kate Rubins are scheduled for launch from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on Oct. 14. After a one-week handover, Cassidy, Ivanishin and Vagner plan to return to Earth, landing on the steppe of Kazakhstan on Oct. 21. That will set the stage for launch of four more crew members Michael Hopkins, Victor Glover, Shannon Walker and Japanese astronaut Soichi Noguchi aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft on Oct. 31. The launching will mark the first operational flight of a Crew Dragon after a successful piloted test flight earlier this summer. Questions about Trump's COVID hospitalization Contradictory information circulates regarding Trump's condition Trump not on a "clear path to recovery," senior official says The brewing trade fight with Vietnam is breaking across familiar lines in the U.S., with importers aghast and textile interests applauding. Late last week, with President Trump suffering from COVID-19, his administration moved ahead with an investigation into Vietnams practices in the timber industry and whether or not the Asian nation undervalues its currency, giving domestic producers an advantage. More from WWD President Trump is firmly committed to combating unfair trade practices that harm Americas workers, businesses, farmers, and ranchers, said Robert Lighthizer, United States Trade Representative. The stakes are high for fashion. Vietnam accounts for 15.8 percent of apparel imports to the U.S., making it the second-largest producer behind China, which has a 37.3 percent share of the market. And Vietnam has been something of a port in the storm for apparel producers contending with Trumps long-running trade war with China, which has calmed but still simmers below the surface. Vietnam is an important trading partner for the U.S. apparel, footwear, and travel goods industry, and has become even more important as U.S. companies have implemented diversification strategies away from China, said Steve Lamar, president and chief executive officer of the American Apparel & Footwear Association. As brands did their best to restructure their sourcing models to protect American consumers and American global value chain workers from increased costs caused by the administrations tariffs, and follow the administrations edict to diversify from China, many turned to their trusted partners in Vietnam. Lamar also argued that new costs on U.S. supply chains would come just as the industry is recovering from the coronavirus slowdown. But the National Council of Textile Organizations welcomed the move. NCTO strongly opposes foreign governments undervaluing their currencies, which puts U.S. manufacturers at a disadvantage by inflating the cost of U.S. exports and deflating the cost of U.S. imports, said Kim Glas, president and ceo of the textile group. The U.S.-Vietnam trading relationship suffers from many of the same problems that we have experienced with China, Glas said. There are strong indications of a purposefully undervalued currency that warrants a full investigation. Further, the industries in the two countries are inextricably linked, as Vietnam sources much of its textile inputs from China. ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitigating COVID-19 transmission and impact, increasing transportation efficiency, making coastlines more resilient and ensuring senior citizen health these are the types of societal challenges a group of the nation's most distinguished scholars are hoping to tackle for Florida. The group is made up of 140 inaugural members of the recently-formed Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida (ASEMFL). These members hold the highest career distinction in the United States as members of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. Only one of every 13,000 university graduates achieve this distinction that affirms their significant societal impact. National Academy members who live or work in Florida have automatic membership in ASEMFL and represent universities, public agencies and private industry statewide. The not-for-profit ASEMFL was founded in 2018 at the University of Central Florida. Members are committed to addressing key issues and challenges impacting Florida, from COVID-19, the environment, sustainable energy, healthcare, transportation and more, by producing cutting-edge unbiased studies. "We have organized a goldmine of brainpower in Florida to help address the state's toughest problems to improve lives and livelihoods," said Gavriel Salvendy, Ph.D., ASEMFL president and member of the National Academy of Engineering. "Throughout their distinguished careers, ASEMFL members have advanced science, engineering and medicine to benefit the nation, and are now uniquely positioned to do the same for the state of Florida." To carry out that mission, ASEMFL is actively seeking partnerships with state agencies and municipalities. City managers, agency leaders, program managers and others are encouraged to connect with ASEMFL with their unique challenges and projects. ASEMFL's 15-member inaugural board represents Florida Atlantic University, Florida International University, Florida State University, University of Central Florida, University of Florida, University of South Florida; 3RAM Group LLC, EOvation Advisors, LLC, Innovia, LLC, and the Optical Society of America. See the ASEMFL website for board members, their affiliations and biographies. In their Nov. 7 Inaugural Meeting to be held virtually, ASEMFL will induct 22 new members to honor their career achievements and expand the organization's collective expertise. The 2020 inductees were selected for their significant contributions to their fields. The meeting is free-of-charge and open to all. Interested participants can RSVP at the ASEMFL Inaugural Meeting webpage. More information is available on the ASEMFL website (ASEMFL.org). Contact: Rachel Williams [email protected] SOURCE University of Central Florida Virginia Roberts has wished the Queen a 'Happy Birthday' by sharing the infamous photo of Prince Andrew with his arm around her waist. Roberts, now known as Giuffre, lives in an area of Australia which officially celebrates Her Majesty's birthday on either the last week of September or the first week of October. Jeffrey Epstein's alleged madam Ghislaine Maxwell stands behind Prince Andrew and the 17-year-old Giuffre in the photo taken at the British socialite's London townhouse. Giuffre tweeted: 'Happy Birthday Queen Elizabeth Here's my gift to you- just a memorable moment of your son,' linking to Prince Andrew's Newsnight interview during which he vehemently denied Giuffre's claims that he had sex with her. Virginia Roberts, then 17, with Prince Andrew and Ghislaine Maxwell at the British socialite's London townhouse in 2001 Roberts, now known as Giuffre, lives in an area of Australia which officially celebrates Her Majesty's birthday on either the last week of September or the first week of October In an interview with the BBC's Emily Maitlis last year, Prince Andrew denied Giuffre's claims that they had sex in Maxwell's London townhouse in 2001 Giuffre's lawyers are involved in the case against Maxwell, who is awaiting trial on charges of helping Epstein to recruit and abuse underage girls. The lawyers have been arguing for the release of Maxwell's deposition in a lawsuit against Giuffre in 2016. Maxwell's lawyers argue that her deposition contained 'intimate, sensitive, and personal information' and that its release would wreck her chances of a fair trial. The British socialite, who denies the claims against her, in August pleaded with judges not to 'let the cat out of the bag' by unsealing the documents. Giuffre's lawyers responded by saying that other high-profile suspects such as al-Qaeda terrorists and cult leader Charles Manson had been given fair trials. Quoting from a ruling in the Manson case which ended with the killer being sentenced to life in prison in 1972, Giuffre's lawyers said that massive pre-trial publicity 'does not automatically translate into prejudice'. Epstein and his ex-girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell, who denies federal charges of helping him to recruit and abuse underage girls Maxwell's trial is scheduled for next July. She was arrested in New Hampshire on July 2 and is being held in a Brooklyn jail after a judge deemed she was a flight risk. A grand jury returned a sealed, six-count indictment against Maxwell on June 29, almost a year after Epstein was charged. It alleges that Maxwell groomed three unnamed girls, all under the age of 18, in London, New York, Florida and New Mexico between 1994 and 1997. She is accused of having befriended them by taking them to the movies or on shopping sprees and 'normalised' abusive behaviour by getting undressed in front of them. Maxwell's lawyers have tried to distance their client from Epstein, saying she'd had no contact with him for more than a decade. Ghislaine Maxwell (pictured in a court sketch during a July 14 hearing) is battling to block the release of documents from her 2016 lawsuit against Virginia Roberts Giuffre Epstein killed himself at age 66 in August 2019 at a federal jail in Manhattan while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. He had previously pleaded guilty in 2008 to a Florida state prostitution charge, and completed a 13-month jail sentence now widely considered too lenient. Before Epstein's conviction, he and Maxwell had a network of powerful friends including Prince Andrew, Donald Trump and Bill Clinton. Thomas Jefferson Byrd, a Tony-nominated actor also known for roles in various Spike Lee films, was found shot to death on an Atlanta street, authorities said Sunday. Byrd, 70, was found unresponsive by Atlanta police officers, who responded to a call about an injured person at 1:45 a.m. Saturday, said Anthony Grant, a spokesperson for the police. Byrd was pronounced dead of multiple gunshot wounds to the back, Grant said. Craig Wyckoff, Byrds friend and former representative, said Sunday that he had spoken with a circle of friends who said that Byrd had gotten into an argument with someone at a store and that that person must have followed him home. The police said the case was under investigation and declined to confirm that account. In a series of posts to Instagram, Lee said he was So Sad to Announce The Tragic Murder Of Our Beloved Brother and highlighted Byrds roles in films like Clockers (1995), Chi-Raq (2015) and Bamboozled (2000). Rest In Peace Brother Byrd, Lee wrote. Byrd also appeared in the 1996 film Set It Off and was nominated for a 2003 Tony Award for his role in a Broadway revival of Ma Raineys Black Bottom, by August Wilson. (A television adaptation is coming to Netflix, starring Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman, who died in August.) Loved working with you Byrd, Davis wrote in a tweet Sunday. What a fine actor you were. So sorry your life ended this way. A review of Ma Raineys Black Bottom in Variety in 2003 hailed Byrd as a singular pleasure in the role of Toledo, the verbally fastidious piano player who dispenses nuggets of African history and homegrown philosophy. The prim set of Byrds mouth and the expressive gymnastics of his eyebrows gently accent Toledos more pompous asides, the reviewer, Charles Isherwood, wrote, but he brings the right measure of natural gravity to Toledos more painfully authentic ruminations. Wyckoff said that in recent years, Byrd had started teaching acting as he tried to get his personal life together after a set of personal struggles. Nasser Metcalfe, an actor and a friend of Byrds, said he had been struck by his humility. At a showing of Clockers at a theater in Atlanta before the two met, both actors were in the audience. It wasnt a screening, Metcalfe said, just the 8 oclock showing at the local multiplex. When the film ended, some of the people who had been sitting near Byrd stood up and applauded him. Byrd very humbly accepted their praise but did not want the spotlight on himself. He appreciated the love, but he didnt necessarily want to be the center of attention, Metcalfe said in a phone call Sunday. In an upcoming film, Freedoms Path, about the Underground Railroad, Byrd plays the role of Abner, a father figure to a group of former slaves. Information about Byrds survivors was not immediately available. He was born in Florida and raised in Georgia, Metcalfe said. Byrd graduated from Morris Brown College, a historically Black liberal arts college in Atlanta, with a degree in education. He then attained a master of fine arts in dance from the California Institute of the Arts. Although Byrd often performed as characters who were rough around the edges Lee highlighted his role as The Frightening Character Errol Barnes In CLOCKERS he was the opposite of how he looked, Wyckoff said, and the opposite of what he played. Later in his life, Byrd became more introspective, Metcalfe said. He was on a path of spiritual self discovery, so to speak, more so than trying to book the next job, he said. But, Metcalfe said, whenever Spike called, he was there. When the two first met at an Atlanta restaurant where Metcalfe was working, Byrd advised him to just focus on your craft. In the early 2000s, when Byrd moved to New York for his role on Broadway, the actors lived two blocks from each other in Harlem. They would read through scripts together, he said. There was no limit to his generosity, Metcalfe said. Thats who the man was. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. The on Monday told the that fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya, cannot be extradited to India until a separate secret legal process in United Kingdom, which is judicial and confidential in nature is resolved. The said that it is not aware of the secret ongoing proceedings against Mallya in the United Kingdom, as the government of India is not party to the process. The Ministry of Home Affairs, in its affidavit filed in the contempt case in which Mallya has been held guilty, said that this legal issue is outside and apart from the extradition process and is confidential and cannot be disclosed. Mallya, an accused in bank loan default case of over Rs 9,000 crore involving his defunct Kingfisher Airlines, is in the United Kingdom. He has been based in the since March 2016 and remains on bail on an extradition warrant executed three years ago by Scotland Yard on April 18, 2017. A bench of Justices U U Lalit and Ashok Bhushan which took up the matter through video conferencing asked Mallya's lawyer to apprise the court by November 2, what kind of "secret" proceedings are going on to extradite him. The bench told advocate Ankur Saigal, representing Mallya that since government of India says it has no idea about the proceedings, he has to apprise the court about what is the nature of proceedings, when are these proceedings getting over and lastly when is the contemnor (Mallya) going to appear before the court. At the outset, advocate Rajat Nair, appearing for said that in compliance with the order of the apex court "we made extradition requests to the United Kingdom but we have been informed that some secret extradition proceedings are going on to which we are not party. He said that the Centre's request for extradition of Mallya has been upheld by the highest court of but nothing has been happening as of now due to the separate process, which has been initiated. The bench then asked Nair that when the request has been upheld by the highest court of then what is holding back the extradition of contemnor. Nair replied that the government of India has no knowledge about the secret proceedings and does not know the status of it. The bench then asked Saigal, what kind of proceedings are going on. He said that they have no knowledge of these proceedings but what he knows is that his client's request against extradition has been rejected. The bench posted the matter for further hearing on November 2 and directed that efforts should be made to ensure the presence of Mallya. In its affidavit, the Centre informed the top court that the UK home office has intimated recently to the Indian High Commission that there is a further legal issue which needs to be resolved before Vijay Mallya's extradition may take place. The UK side further said that this issue is outside and apart from the extradition process, but it has the effect that under the United Kingdom law, extradition cannot take place until it is resolved. The High Commission was further informed that the issue is confidential and so it cannot be disclosed it said. It said that in compliance with the order of the top court dated August 31, the Indian government has again taken up the pending extradition case of Vijay Mallya with the Government of the United Kingdom, so as to seek his early extradition and facilitate his presence before the top court on October 5. That the UK side has informed that extradition of Mr Vijay Mallya cannot take place until a separate legal issue, which is judicial and confidential in nature, is resolved. The UK side has emphasized that neither they can provide any more details nor intervene in the process, the Centre said. It said that the UK government has also indicated that through the designated channel, that the UK home office has received a request to serve summons on Mallya for his hearing before the top court in India. The Centre said that it is duty bound to honour, respect and comply with its orders including the order dated August 31, 2020 and the Union of India is also committed to bring back Vijay Mallya to India so as to ensure that he is tried in various offences strictly in accordance with the procedure established by law after complying with each and other statutory mechanism provided by law. The Centre stated that the extradition proceedings are pending in the United Kingdom as pointed out. Considering the limited scope of this affidavit, the details of extradition proceedings are not placed in this affidavit at this stage. The Centre gave the details of the extradition proceedings against Mallya starting from February 9, 2017 till dismissal of his appeal on May 14 and said that the fugitive businessman has thus exhausted all avenues of appeal in the United Kingdom. The Centre said that following the refusal of leave to appeal, Mallya's surrender to India should, in principle, have been completed within 28 days but the UK home office intimated that there is a further legal issue which needs to be resolved before Vijay Mallya's extradition may take place. On August 31, the top court had directed Mallya to appear before it on October 5 while dismissing his plea seeking review of the 2017 verdict which held him guilty of contempt for transferring USD 40 million to his children in violations of court orders. The top court had also directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to facilitate and ensure the presence of Mallya before it in October. When Europe emerged from the Middle Ages, the rising middle-class of the towns constituted its revolutionary element. It had conquered a recognized position within mediaeval feudal organization, but this position, also, had become too narrow for its expansive power. The development of the middle-class, the bourgeoisie, became incompatible with the maintenance of the feudal system; the feudal system, therefore, had to fall. But the great international centre of feudalism was the Roman Catholic Church. It united the whole of feudalized Western Europe, in spite of all internal wars, into one grand political system, opposed as much to the schismatic Greeks as to the Mohammedan countries. It had organized its own hierarchy on the feudal model, and, lastly, it was itself by far the most powerful feudal lord, holding, as it did, fully 1/3rd of the soil of the Catholic world. Before profane feudalism could be successfully attacked in each country and in detail, this, its sacred central organization, had to be destroyed. Moreover, parallel with the rise of the middle-class went on the great revival of science; astronomy, mechanics, physics, anatomy, physiology were again cultivated. And the bourgeoisie, for the development of its industrial production, required a science which ascertained the physical properties of natural objects and the modes of action of the forces of Nature. Now up to then science had but been the humble handmaid of the Church, had not been allowed to overlap the limits set by faith, and for that reason had been no science at all. Science rebelled against the Church; the bourgeoisie could not do without science, and, therefore, had to join in the rebellion. The above, though touching but two of the points where the rising middle-class was bound to come into collision with the established religion, will be sufficient to show, first, that the class most directly interested in the struggle against the pretensions of the Roman Church was the bourgeoisie; and second, that every struggle against feudalism, at that time, had to take on a religious disguise, had to be directed against the Church in the first instance. But if the universities and the traders of the cities started the cry, it was sure to find, and did find, a strong echo in the masses of the country people, the peasants, who everywhere had to struggle for their very existence with their feudal lords, spiritual and temporal. The long fight of the bourgeoisie against feudalism culminated in three great, decisive battles. The first was what is called the Protestant Reformation in Germany. The war cry raised against the Church, by Luther, was responded to by two insurrections of a political nature; first, that of the lower nobility under Franz von Sickingen (1523), then the great Peasants War, 1525. Both were defeated, chiefly in consequence of the indecision of the parties most interested, the burghers of the townsan indecision into the causes of which we cannot here enter. From that moment, the struggle degenerated into a fight between the local princes and the central power, and ended by blotting out Germany, for 200 years, from the politically active nations of Europe. The Lutheran Reformation produced a new creed indeed, a religion adapted to absolute monarchy. No sooner were the peasants of North-east Germany converted to Lutheranism than they were from freemen reduced to serfs. But where Luther failed, Calvin won the day. Calvins creed was one fit for the boldest of the bourgeoisie of his time. His predestination doctrine was the religious expression of the fact that in the commercial world of competition success or failure does not depend upon a mans activity or cleverness, but upon circumstances uncontrollable by him. It is not of him that willeth or of him that runneth, but of the mercy of unknown superior economic powers; and this was especially true at a period of economic revolution, when all old commercial routes and centres were replaced by new ones, when India and America were opened to the world, and when even the most sacred economic articles of faiththe value of gold and silverbegan to totter and to break down. Calvins church constitution of God was republicanized, could the kingdoms of this world remains subject to monarchs, bishops, and lords? While German Lutheranism became a willing tool in the hands of princes, Calvinism founded a republic in Holland, and active republican parties in England, and, above all, Scotland. In Calvinism, the second great bourgeois upheaval found its doctrine ready cut and dried. This upheaval took place in England. The middle-class of the towns brought it on, and the yeomanry of the country districts fought it out. Curiously enough, in all the three great bourgeois risings, the peasantry furnishes the army that has to do the fighting; and the peasantry is just the class that, the victory once gained, is most surely ruined by the economic consequences of that victory. A hundred years after Cromwell, the yeomanry of England had almost disappeared. Anyhow, had it not been for that yeomanry and for the plebian element in the towns, the bourgeoisie alone would never have fought the matter out to the bitter end, and would never have brought Charles I to the scaffold. In order to secure even those conquests of the bourgeoisie that were ripe for gathering at the time, the revolution had to be carried considerably furtherexactly as in 1793 in France and 1848 in Germany. This seems, in fact, to be one of the laws of evolution of bourgeois society. Well, upon this excess of revolutionary activity there necessarily followed the inevitable reaction which, in its turn, went beyond the point where it might have maintained itself. After a series of oscillations, the new centre of gravity was at last attained and became a new starting-point. The grand period of English history, known to respectability under the name of the Great Rebellion, and the struggles succeeding it, were brought to a close by the comparatively puny events entitled by Liberal historians the Glorious Revolution. The new starting-point was a compromise between the rising middle-class and the ex-feudal landowners. The latter, though called, as now, the aristocracy, had been long since on the way which led them to become what Louis Philippe in France became at a much later period: The first bourgeois of the kingdom. Fortunately for England, the old feudal barons had killed one another during the War of the Roses. Their successors, though mostly scions of the old families, had been so much out of the direct line of descent that they constituted quite a new body, with habits and tendencies far more bourgeois than feudal. They fully understood the value of money, and at once began to increase their rents by turning hundreds of small farmers out and replacing them with sheep. Henry VIII, while squandering the Church lands, created fresh bourgeois landlords by wholesale; the innumerable confiscation of estates, regranted to absolute or relative upstarts, and continued during the whole of the 17th century, had the same result. Consequently, ever since Henry VII, the English aristocracy, far from counteracting the development of industrial production, had, on the contrary, sought to indirectly profit thereby; and there had always been a section of the great landowners willing, from economical or political reasons, to cooperate with the leading men of the financial and industrial bourgeoisie. The compromise of 1689 was, therefore, easily accomplished. The political spoils of pelf and place were left to the great landowning families, provided the economic interests of the financial, manufacturing, and commercial middle-class were sufficiently attended to. And these economic interests were at that time powerful enough to determine the general policy of the nation. There might be squabbles about matters of detail, but, on the whole, the aristocratic oligarchy knew too well that its own economic prosperity was irretrievably bound up with that of the industrial and commercial middle-class. From that time, the bourgeoisie was a humble, but still a recognized, component of the ruling classes of England. With the rest of them, it had a common interest in keeping in subjection the great working mass of the nation. The merchant or manufacturer himself stood in the position of master, or, as it was until lately called, of natural superior to his clerks, his work-people, his domestic servants. His interest was to get as much and as good work out of them as he could; for this end, they had to be trained to proper submission. He was himself religious; his religion had supplied the standard under which he had fought the king and the lords; he was not long in discovering the opportunities this same religion offered him for working upon the minds of his natural inferiors, and making them submissive to the behests of the masters it had pleased God to place over them. In short, the English bourgeoisie now had to take a part in keeping down the lower orders, the great producing mass of the nation, and one of the means employed for that purpose was the influence of religion. There was another factor that contributed to strengthen the religious leanings of the bourgeoisie. That was the rise of materialism in England. This new doctrine not only shocked the pious feelings of the middle-class; it announced itself as a philosophy only fit for scholars and cultivated men of the world, in contrast to religion, which was good enough for the uneducated masses, including the bourgeoisie. With Hobbes, it stepped on the stage as a defender of royal prerogative and omnipotence; it called upon absolute monarchy to keep down that puer robustus sed malitiosus [Robust but malicious boy]to wit, the people. Similarly, with the successors of Hobbes, with Bolingbroke, Shaftesbury, etc., the new deistic form of materialism remained an aristocratic, esoteric doctrine, and, therefore, hateful to the middle-class both for its religious heresy and for its anti-bourgeois political connections. Accordingly, in opposition to the materialism and deism of the aristocracy, those Protestant sects which had furnished the flag and the fighting contingent against the Stuarts continued to furnish the main strength of the progressive middle-class, and form even today the backbone of the Great Liberal Party. In the meantime, materialism passed from England to France, where it met and coalesced with another materialistic school of philosophers, a branch of Cartesianism. In France, too, it remained at first an exclusively aristocratic doctrine. But, soon, its revolutionary character asserted itself. The French materialists did not limit their criticism to matters of religious belief; they extended it to whatever scientific tradition or political institution they met with; and to prove the claim of their doctrine to universal application, they took the shortest cut, and boldly applied it to all subjects of knowledge in the giant work after which they were namedthe Encyclopaedia. Thus, in one or the other of its two formsavowed materialism or deismit became the creed of the whole cultures youth of France; so much so that, when the Great Revolution broke out, the doctrine hatched by English Royalists gave a theoretical flag to French Republicans and Terrorists, and furnished the text for the Declaration of the Rights of Man. The Great French Revolution was the third uprising of the bourgeoisie, but the first that had entirely cast off the religious cloak, and was fought out on undisguised political lines; it was the first, too, that was really fought out up to the destruction of one of the combatants, the aristocracy, and the complete triumph of the other, the bourgeoisie. In England, the continuity of pre-revolutionary and post-revolutionary institutions, and the compromise between landlords and capitalists, found its expression in the continuity of judicial precedents and in the religious preservation of the feudal forms of the law. In France, the Revolution constituted a complete breach with the traditions of the past; it cleared out the very last vestiges of feudalism, and created in the Code Civil a masterly adaptation of the old Roman lawthat almost perfect expression of the juridical relations corresponding to the economic stage called by Marx the production of commoditiesto modern capitalist conditions; so masterly that this French revolutionary code still serves as a model for reforms of the law of property in all other countries, not excepting England. Let us, however, not forget that if English law continues to express the economic relations of capitalist society in that barbarous feudal language which corresponds to the thing expressed, just as English spelling corresponds to English pronunciationvous ecrivez Londres et vous prononcez Constantinople, said a Frenchmanthat same English law is the only one which has preserved through ages, and transmitted to America and the Colonies, the best part of that old Germanic personal freedom, local self-government, and independence from all interference (but that of the law courts), which on the Continent has been lost during the period of absolute monarchy, and has nowhere been as yet fully recovered. To return to our British bourgeois. The French Revolution gave him a splendid opportunity, with the help of the Continental monarchies, to destroy French maritime commerce, to annex French colonies, and to crush the last French pretensions to maritime rivalry. That was one reason why he fought it. Another was that the ways of this revolution went very much against his grain. Not only its execrable terrorism, but the very attempt to carry bourgeois rule to extremes. What should the British bourgeois do without his aristocracy, that taught him manners, such as they were, and invented fashions for himthat furnished officers for the army, which kept order at home, and the navy, which conquered colonial possessions and new markets aboard? There was, indeed, a progressive minority of the bourgeoisie, that minority whose interests were not so well attended to under the compromise; this section, composed chiefly of the less wealthy middle-class, did sympathize with the Revolution, but it was powerless in Parliament. Thus, if materialism became the creed of the French Revolution, the God-fearing English bourgeois held all the faster to his religion. Had not the reign of terror in Paris proved what was the upshot, if the religious instincts of the masses were lost? The more materialism spread from France to neighboring countries, and was reinforced by similar doctrinal currents, notably by German philosophy, the more, in fact, materialism and free thought generally became, on the Continent, the necessary qualifications of a cultivated man, the more stubbornly the English middle-class stuck to its manifold religious creeds. These creeds might differ from one another, but they were, all of them, distinctly religious, Christian creeds. While the Revolution ensured the political triumph of the bourgeoisie in France, in England Watt, Arkwright, Cartwright, and others, initiated an industrial revolution, which completely shifted the centre of gravity of economic power. The wealth of the bourgeoisie increased considerably faster than that of the landed aristocracy. Within the bourgeoisie itself, the financial aristocracy, the bankers, etc., were more and more pushed into the background by the manufacturers. The compromise of 1689, even after the gradual changes it had undergone in favor of the bourgeoisie, no longer corresponded to the relative position of the parties to it. The character of these parties, too, had changed; the bourgeoisie of 1830 was very different from that of the preceding century. The political power still left to the aristocracy, and used by them to resist the pretensions of the new industrial bourgeoisie, became incompatible with the new economic interests. A fresh struggle with the aristocracy was necessary; it could end only in a victory of the new economic power. First, the Reform Act was pushed through, in spite of all resistance, under the impulse of the French Revolution of 1830. It gave to the bourgeoisie a recognized and powerful place in Parliament. Then the Repeal of the Corn Laws [a move toward free-trade], which settled, once and for all, the supremacy of the bourgeoisie, and especially of its most active portion, the manufacturers, over the landed aristocracy. This was the greatest victory of the bourgeoisie; it was, however, also the last it gained in its own exclusive interest. Whatever triumphs it obtained later on, it had to share with a new social powerfirst its ally, but soon its rival. The industrial revolution had created a class of large manufacturing capitalists, but also a classand a far more numerous oneof manufacturing work-people. This class gradually increased in numbers, in proportion as the industrial revolution seized upon one branch of manufacture after another, and in the same proportion it increased its power. This power it proved as early as 1824, by forcing a reluctant Parliament to repeal the acts forbidding combinations of workmen. During the Reform agitation, the workingmen constituted the Radical wing of the Reform party; the Act of 1832 having excluded them from the suffrage, the formulated their demands in the Peoples Charter, and constituted themselves, in opposition to the great bourgeois Anti-Corn Law party, into an independent party, the Chartists, the first working-mens party of modern times. Then came the Continental revolutions of February and March 1848, in which the working people played such a prominent part, and, at least in Paris, put forward demands which were certainly inadmissible from the point of view of capitalist society. And then came the general reaction. First, the defeat of the Chartists on April 10, 1848; then the crushing of the Paris workingmens insurrection in June of the same year; then the disasters of 1849 in Italy, Hungary, South Germany, and at last the victory of Louis Bonaparte over Paris, December 2, 1851. For a time, at least, the bugbear of working-class pretensions was put down, but at what cost! If the British bourgeois had been convinced before of the necessity of maintaining the common people in a religious mood, how much more must he feel that necessity after all these experiences? Regardless of the sneers of his Continental compeers, he continued to spend thousands and tens of thousands, year after year, upon the evangelization of the lower orders; not content with his own native religious machinery, he appealed to Brother Jonathan[ 1 ], the greatest organizer in existence of religion as a trade, and imported from America revivalism,[ 2 ] Moody and Sankey, and the like; and, finally, he accepted the dangerous aid of the Salvation Army, which revives the propaganda of early Christianity, appeals to the poor as the elect, fights capitalism in a religious way, and thus fosters an element of early Christian class antagonism, which one day may become troublesome to the well-to-do people who now find the ready money for it. It seems a law of historical development that the bourgeoisie can in no European country get hold of political powerat least for any length of timein the same exclusive way in which the feudal aristocracy kept hold of it during the Middle Ages. Even in France, where feudalism was completely extinguished, the bourgeoisie as a whole has held full possession of the Government for very short periods only. During Louis Philippes reign, 1830-48, a very small portion of the bourgeoisie ruled the kingdom; by far the larger part were excluded from the suffrage by the high qualification. Under the Second Republic, 1848-51, the whole bourgeoisie ruled but for three years only; their incapacity brought on the Second Empire. It is only now, in the Third Republic, that the bourgeoisie as a whole have kept possession of the helm for more than 20 years; and they are already showing lively signs of decadence. A durable reign of the bourgeoisie has been possible only in countries like America, where feudalism was unknown, and society at the very beginning started from a bourgeois basis. And even in France and America, the successors of the bourgeoisie, the working people, are already knocking at the door. In England, the bourgeoisie never held undivided sway. Even the victory of 1832 left the landed aristocracy in almost exclusive possession of all the leading Government offices. The meekness with which the middle-class submitted to this remained inconceivable to me until the great Liberal manufacturer, Mr. W. A. Forster, in a public speech, implored the young men of Bradford to learn French, as a means to get on in the world, and quoted from his own experience how sheepish he looked when, as a Cabinet Minister, he had to move in society where French was, at least, as necessary as English! The fact was, the English middle-class of that time were, as a rule, quite uneducated upstarts, and could not help leaving to the aristocracy those superior Government places where other qualifications were required than mere insular narrowness and insular conceit, seasoned by business sharpness.[ 3 ] Even now the endless newspaper debates about middle-class education show that the English middle-class does not yet consider itself good enough for the best education, and looks to something more modest. Thus, even after the repeal of the Corn Laws, it appeared a matter of course that the men who had carried the daythe Cobdens, Brights, Forsters, etc.should remain excluded from a share in the official government of the country, until 20 years afterwards a new Reform Act opened to them the door of the Cabinet. The English bourgeoisie are, up to the present day, so deeply penetrated by a sense of their social inferiority that they keep up, at their own expense and that of the nation, an ornamental caste of drones to represent the nation worthily at all State functions; and they consider themselves highly honored whenever one of themselves is found worthy of admission into this select and privileged body, manufactured, after all, by themselves. The industrial and commercial middle-class had, therefore, not yet succeeded in driving the landed aristocracy completely from political power when another competitor, the working-class, appeared on the stage. The reaction after the Chartist movement and the Continental revolutions, as well as the unparalleled extension of English trade from 1848-66 (ascribed vulgarly to Free Trade alone, but due far more to the colossal development of railways, ocean steamers, and means of intercourse generally), had again driven the working-class into the dependency of the Liberal party, of which they formed, as in pre-Chartist times, the Radical wing. Their claims to the franchise, however, gradually became irresistible; while the Whig leaders of the Liberals funked, Disraeli showed his superiority by making the Tories seize the favorable moment and introduce household suffrage in the boroughs, along with a redistribution of seats. Then followed the ballot; then, in 1884, the extension of household suffrage to the counties and a fresh redistribution of seats, by which electoral districts were, to some extent, equalized. All these measures considerably increased the electoral power of the working-class, so much so that in at least 150 to 200 constituencies that class now furnished the majority of the voters. But parliamentary government is a capital school for teaching respect for tradition; if the middle-class look with awe and veneration upon what Lord John Manners playfully called our old nobility, the mass of the working-people then looked up with respect and deference to what used to be designated as their betters, the middle-class. Indeed, the British workman, some 15 years ago, was the model workman, whose respectful regard for the position of his master, and whose self-restraining modesty in claiming rights for himself, consoled our German economists of the Katheder-Socialist school for the incurable communistic and revolutionary tendencies of their own working-men at home. But the English middle-classgood men of business as they aresaw farther than the German professors. They had shared their powers but reluctantly with the working-class. They had learnt, during the Chartist years, what that puer robustus sed malitiosus, the people, is capable of. And since that time, they had been compelled to incorporate the better part of the Peoples Charter in the Statutes of the United Kingdom. Now, if ever, the people must be kept in order by moral means, and the first and foremost of all moral means of action upon the masses is and remainsreligion. Hence the parsons majorities on the School Boards, hence the increasing self-taxation of the bourgeoisie for the support of all sorts of revivalism, from ritualism to the Salvation Army. And now came the triumph of British respectability over the free thought and religious laxity of the Continental bourgeois. The workmen of France and Germany had become rebellious. They were thoroughly infected with Socialism, and, for very good reasons, were not at all particular as to the legality of the means by which to secure their own ascendancy. The puer robustus, here, turned from day-to-day more malitiosus. Nothing remained to the French and German bourgeoisie as a last resource but to silently drop their free thought, as a youngster, when sea-sickness creeps upon him, quietly drops the burning cigar he brought swaggeringly on board; one-by-one, the scoffers turned pious in outward behavior, spoke with respect of the Church, its dogmas and rites, and even conformed with the latter as far as could not be helped. French bourgeois dined maigre on Fridays, and German ones say out long Protestant sermons in their pews on Sundays. They had come to grief with materialism. Die Religion muss dem Volk erhalten werdenreligion must be kept alive for the peoplethat was the only and the last means to save society from utter ruin. Unfortunately for themselves, they did not find this out until they had done their level best to break up religion for ever. And now it was the turn of the British bourgeoisie to sneer and to say: Why, you fools, I could have told you that 200 years ago! However, I am afraid neither the religious stolidity of the British, nor the post festum conversion of the Continental bourgeois will stem the rising Proletarian tide. Tradition is a great retarding force, is the vis inertiae of history, but, being merely passive, is sure to be broken down; and thus religion will be no lasting safeguard to capitalist society. If our juridical, philosophical, and religious ideas are the more or less remote offshoots of the economical relations prevailing in a given society, such ideas cannot, in the long run, withstand the effects of a complete change in these relations. And, unless we believe in supernatural revelation, we must admit that no religious tenets will ever suffice to prop up a tottering society. In fact, in England too, the working-people have begun to move again. They are, no doubt, shackled by traditions of various kinds. Bourgeois traditions, such as the widespread belief that there can be but two parties, Conservatives and Liberals, and that the working-class must work out its salvation by and through the great Liberal Party. Working-mens traditions, inherited from their first tentative efforts at independent action, such as the exclusion, from ever so many old Trade Unions, of all applicants who have not gone through a regular apprenticeship; which means the breeding, by every such union, of its own blacklegs. But, for all that, the English working-class is moving, as even Professor Brentano has sorrowfully had to report to his brother Katheder-Socialists. It moves, like all things in England, with a slow and measured step, with hesitation here, with more or less unfruitful, tentative attempts there; it moves now and then with an over-cautious mistrust of the name of Socialism, while it gradually absorbs the substance; and the movement spreads and seizes one layer of the workers after another. It has now shaken out of their torpor the unskilled laborers of the East End of London, and we all know what a splendid impulse these fresh forces have given it in return. And if the pace of the movement is not up to the impatience of some people, let them not forget that it is the working-class which keeps alive the finest qualities of the English character, and that, if a step in advance is once gained in England, it is, as a rule, never lost afterwards. If the sons of the old Chartists, for reasons unexplained above, were not quite up to the mark, the grandsons bid fair to be worthy of their forefathers. But the triumph of the European working-class does not depend upon England alone. It can only be secured by the cooperation of, at least, England, France, and Germany. In both the latter countries, the working-class movement is well ahead of England. In Germany, it is even within measurable distance of success. The progress it has there made during the last 25 years is unparalleled. It advances with ever-increasing velocity. If the German middle-class have shown themselves lamentably deficient in political capacity, discipline, courage, energy, and perseverance, the German working-class have given ample proof of all these qualities. Four hundred years ago, Germany was the starting-point of the first upheaval of the European middle-class; as things are now, is it outside the limits of possibility that Germany will be the scene, too, of the first great victory of the European proletariat? Frederick Engels London April 20, 1892 Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews last year asked the Chinese government to set up a technology research and development centre in Melbourne, prompting warnings about intellectual property theft and the potential national security implications. Mr Andrews request for a so-called "torch centre" to be set up in Melbourne was part of his attempt last October to court Chinese investment and which saw him describe Victoria as "China's gateway to Australia". The offer was made in a letter sent last year to Chinas Minister for Science and Technology, Wang Zhigang, and followed up in person in a meeting between the Premier and vice-minister Huang Wei in October last year. Daniel Andrews. Credit:Simon Schluter Torch centres in China bring together universities and high-tech start-ups with the aim of fostering innovation. They have been crucial to Chinas rising fortunes since 1988 and the Chinese government credits them with contributing almost half of China's patents and 11 per cent of its gross domestic product. The University of NSW already hosts such a centre, but risk analysis group Foreign Brief says they have also been linked to Chinas potential acquisition and development of "grey area" technology that could include military use. A briefing prepared for Mr Andrews ahead of his meeting with Chinas most senior science and technology officials in October, 2019, said the Victorian government "welcomes the establishment of a torch centre in Melbourne and is ready to work with [the ministry] to explore how this can be achieved". The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has urged Ghanaians to reject former President John Dramani Mahama in the upcoming December 7 general elections for the sake of the health of the cocoa sector. At a press conference on Monday afternoon, the governing party asserted that for Mr. Mahama, cocoa is just an avenue for corruption; leaving the industry and the farmer to suffer. Our humble warning to cocoa farmers, their dependants and all well-meaning Ghanaians is this: Keep candidate Mahama's hands away from your cocoa, Yaw Buaben Asamoa, the NPPs Director of Communications said during the press conference. The governing party insists that when it comes to the wellbeing and welfare of the Ghanaian farmer, candidate Mahama is dangerous. He does not know how to manage the economy. He does not know how to help the cocoa industry. He has no clue what the needs of the farmers are. In contrast, the NPP said its party and President Akufo-Addo can be trusted to protect the progress made so far to transform the industry for the welfare and wellbeing of all Ghanaians. Mr. Asamoa said, the cocoa sector is another area where the President has demonstrated strong leadership and initiative. As an example, he cited the International community price Support System which has allowed our farmers to now earn an additional income through a $400 premium on the world price of cocoa. In one of the most significant interventions for the cocoa sector, Ghana raised its farm gate price for cocoa by 21 percent after implementing the $400 per metric ton premium on future prices for the 2020-21 harvest. This has been called the Living-Income Differential. Ghana is the worlds second-largest producer of the crop and its farmers will receive GHs 625 cedis per 64-kilogram bag, or GHS10,000 per ton, for the harvest season that began this October. This compares to GHS515 per bag and GHS8,240 per ton in the previous season. ---citinewsroom Srinagar, Oct 5 : After violating ceasefire on the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri district, Pakistan resorted to unprovoked firing and intense shelling along the LoC in Poonch district on Monday. Defence Ministry spokesman Colonel Devender Anand said, "After initiating ceasefire violation in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district at about 6.30 pm, Pakistan again initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by firing with small arms and intense shelling with mortars along the LoC in Degwar sector of Poonch district at about 8 pm. In both the sectors, Indian army is retaliating befittingly". Since the beginning of this year, Pakistan has been violating with impunity the bilateral ceasefire agreement signed by the two countries in 1999. In over 3,190 such ceasefire violations along the LoC since the beginning of this year, 24 civilians have been killed while 100 others have been injured. An estimated 39 million children have been immunized against poliomyelitis during five-day nationwide vaccination campaign concluded on September 25 ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Oct, 2020 ) :An estimated 39 million children have been immunized against poliomyelitis during five-day nationwide vaccination campaign concluded on September 25. According to an official of Pakistan Polio Eradication, the nationwide campaign was implemented by a workforce of almost 270,000 frontline workers who carried out door-to-door vaccination of children under the age of five. He said that this was the first nationwide campaign since February due to a four-month suspension on supplementary immunization activities during the COVID-19 outbreak in Pakistan. He said that the campaign was inaugurated by provincial and district leadership across the country, while the Pakistan armed forces, members of medical associations, prominent religious leaders, celebrities, activists and leadership from across the political spectrum came forward to support the campaign. Commenting on the results of September campaign, Dr Faisal Sultan, the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on National Health Services said that it was very encouraging to see all Pakistanis, from all walks of life, showing such great support for this national cause. "With such level of commitment, I am confident that we are going in the right direction. We have to ensure that no child is missed during these nationwide vaccination campaigns in order to protect them against the crippling polio disease." As with smaller campaigns held in July and August, frontline workers were trained on COVID-19 preventive measures, such as hand washing, the proper use of face masks and maintaining a safe distance from others especially children during door-to-door visits. Moreover, the programme implemented strict measures for its field staff as per the Government of Pakistan's set guidelines on COVID-19 prevention, he added. Data from campaigns conducted between July to September show that vaccination teams have improved their outreach in each subsequent campaign. This means more children across the country were being administered the polio vaccine and building the necessary immunity against the polio virus. "With each campaign we have launched since July, our frontline workers have done an exceptional job at reaching vulnerable children with the polio vaccine. This would not have been possible, however, without the cooperation of concerned parents and caregivers across the country," said Dr. Rana Muhammad Safdar, Coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Centre of the Pakistan Polio Eradication program. "Essential immunization also needs to be strengthened to facilitate the interruption of all poliovirus transmission, and hence, the program is focused on prioritizing essential immunization as part of the national agenda alongside upcoming door-to-door vaccination campaigns," Dr. Safdar further highlighted. To do this, the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) has simultaneously been conducting targeted outreach activities to ensure that children are receiving essential immunization. About 8,150 vaccination teams have been deployed across the country in order to conduct these outreach activities with communities. From January to August, around 13.6 million vaccine doses had been administered to children. Meanwhile, approximately 699,762 zero dose children, or children who had never received routine immunization, had also been identified and vaccinated. Zac Efron has officially moved out of the northern NSW celebrity hotspot of Byron Bay, where he had been living since early this year. The 32-year-old was spotted around Bondi Beach on Friday - eight hours south of Byron in Sydney's east - and dining at an upscale seafood restaurant in nearby Rose Bay on Sunday, sparking rumours he has taken up residency in the area. According to The Sydney Morning Herald on Sunday, paparazzi who have been 'following his every move' now believe the actor is living in Dover Heights. New in town: Hollywood megastar Zac Efron has reportedly taken up residence in a clifftop mansion in Dover Heights, one of Australia's most affluent suburbs Getting to know the neighbourhood? The 32-year-old (centre) was spotted dining at an upscale seafood restaurant in nearby Rose Bay with his girlfriend, Vanessa Valladares (right), on Sunday, sparking rumours he has taken up residency in the area Dover Heights is one of Australia's most affluent suburbs, with its residents ranked the fourth highest-earning in the country. According to Realestate.com.au, the median house price is $3.6million. Zac is reportedly renting a clifftop mansion in the suburb, which is renowned for its spectacular views of Sydney Harbour. Some of his well-heeled neighbours include billionaire Merivale pub baron Justin Hemmes and celebrity accountant Anthony Bell. Location: According to The Sydney Morning Herald on Sunday, paparazzi who have been 'following his every move' now believe the actor is living in Dover Heights. Residents of the suburb are the fourth highest-earning in the country Sea change: Zac's move from Byron Bay was first rumoured on Friday, when he was spotted around Sydney's Bondi Beach - eight hours south of the northern NSW celebrity hotspot His girlfriend, Byron Bay local Vanessa Valladares, 25, was spotted dining with Zac at Catalina in Rose Bay on Sunday. It is unclear whether they are living together. During the boozy lunch, Zac appeared to be in high spirits, and was seen laughing with an unidentified man while Vanessa sat beside him. The Hollywood star had spent months quietly living in Byron Bay before it was reported on Friday that he'd relocated to Bondi Beach, the jewel in the crown of Sydney's eastern suburbs. Former Bachelor winner Laura Byrne said on her Life Uncut podcast that she had seen 'Zac f**king Efron' and his entourage at a venue on Bondi Road. Couple: Zac's girlfriend, Byron Bay local Vanessa Valladares, 25, was spotted dining with him at Catalina in Rose Bay on Sunday. It is unclear whether they are living together Laura said: 'I walked past and I saw this guy in the window and I thought, "Ah, he's good looking," and I looked at his face and I was like, "Holy s**t, that's Zac Efron."' 'It was 100 per cent Zac Efron. He's in Bondi - all you single ladies, get down here!' Zac reportedly met Vanessa in July, when she was working at the Byron Bay General Store cafe and the Light Years restaurant. 'They were introduced by her boss,' a source told Who magazine. 'Lucky girl!' Romance: Zac's girlfriend, Vanessa Valladares (pictured), worked as a waitress at the Byron Bay General Store cafe until recently While Zac is living in Australia for the time being, he's expected to return to America in the coming months to film the Disney+ remake of Three Men and a Baby. Because of border restrictions between Australia and the U.S., the only way for him and Vanessa to travel back and forth together would be to get married - and they are reportedly considering this as an option. 'I really think Zac's at the point where he'd marry Vanessa tomorrow if she said yes,' an insider told New Idea magazine. The West Bengal Criminal Investigation Department (CID) took over the investigation of the murder case of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Titagarh Municipality Councillor Manish Shukla on Monday. A team of CID officers reached the spot in Titagarh of Barrackpore in the afternoon to collect evidence and conduct further investigation into the case. The West Bengal Police took to Twitter urging people not to jump on to a conclusion without the investigation. A person was shot dead last evening in the Titagarh area of Barrackpore. Police is investigating the crime and looking into all possible reasons including personal enmity because the victim was accused in some cases of murder and attempt of murder. Please do not jump to the conclusion without proper investigation. Irresponsible comments on social media tantamount to interference in the investigation. Please refrain from this, read the statement from West Bengal Police. On October 9, at around 8-8:30 pm, two bikes chased him at Barrackpores Titagarh area. The moment he was to get down his car to enter the party office, the bike-borne assailants opened fire at him. According to the police, close to 5-6 rounds of bullets were fired at him. Shukla suffered serious bullet injuries on his face and chest. He was immediately rushed to a hospital in Kolkata where he was declared brought dead on arrival at the hospital. While BJP had called for a 12-hour Barrackpore bandh condemning the brutal murder, the party demanded a CBI inquiry into the case. Tension prevailed in the area as locals protested and demanding the guilty be brought to book. Burma Controversial Head of Myanmars Rose Party Arrested on Fugitive Warrant UDP Chairman Michael Kyaw Myint / The Irrawaddy YANGONThe controversial chairman of the United Democratic Party (UDP) has been detained by police as part of an investigation into his escape from prison in the late 1990s, while he was serving a 10-year sentence for flouting Myanmars business laws, according to the Union Presidents Office. The arrest in Yangon followed a recent comment by the Presidents Office spokesperson that authorities had launched an investigation in the wake of media reports about Michael Kyaw Myints shady background, including accusations that he laundered money for a powerful ethnic armed group and fled his prison sentence. He was arrested last night under a police warrant, as he is a fugitive, spokesperson U Zaw Htay said on Tuesday, adding that existing investigations into his activities are ongoing. Established by Michael Kyaw Myint (or Michael Hua Hu), the UDP is fielding 1,130 candidates in Novembers general electionalmost as many as the ruling National League for Democracy (NLD). The party is popularly known as the Red Rose party, after its logo. After his escape from prison, he traveled first to the US and then Canada, reportedly with the help of the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). In Thailand, he reportedly met US diplomats in Bangkok and provided information about illicit drug activities in Myanmar. He then went to the US. In a story published by the Vancouver Sun in April 2009, U Kyaw Myint said the DEA helped him to obtain political asylum in the US and he moved to New Jersey. He moved to Canada in 2002, seeking political asylum and residing in Vancouver. In the same year, U Kyaw Myint made headlines in Canada when trading in Future Canada China Environment Inc., with which he is allegedly associated, was halted by the US Securities and Exchange Commission, when the value of the companys stock rose rapidly to more than US$1 billion. Michael Kyaw Myint recently denied all the accusations against him. Ahead of Myanmars general election in 2010, U Kyaw Myint recruited some politicians in Myanmar and established the UDP inside the country. It is still a mystery how someone with a background as checkered as U Kyaw Myints was able to establish and register a political party in Myanmar. You may also like these stories: Myanmars NLD Unveils Election Candidate Lineup With More Women, Muslims NLD Vice Chairman Battles Leukemia in Bangkok; Party Remains Hopeful Myanmar President Tells Officials to Control Hate Speech Ahead of Election Iconic bread brand Hovis could fall into Italian hands after the maker of Buitoni pasta made a non-binding offer for the British company. Parma-based Newlat Food, which also makes bread and dairy products like milk and mascarpone, hailed 134-year old Hovis as a brand 'with a great tradition and recognizability in the UK'. Based in High Wycombe, Hovis has eight bakeries, one flourmill and three distribution centres across the UK, employing a total 2,800 people. Takeover target: Italy's Newlat Food has made an offer for 134-year old Hovis Newlat Food said it was awaiting an answer from shareholders and did not say how much it was prepared to pay to buy Hovis, although reports put the amount at around 100million. Hovis Holdings Ltd - which is owned by Mr Kiplings maker Premier Foods and US private equity firm The Gores Group - raked in 333.8million of revenues in 2019, according to the latest filed results at Companies House. The company, founded in 1886 in Macclesfield in Cheshire, was bought by Premier Foods in 2007, which then sold a controlling stake in the business to The Gores Group in 2014. Newlat Food, which is listed on the Milan stock exchange and has operations in Germany, said the acquisition would allow it to expand its international reach and make 1billion turnover ahead of time. In a statement on its website, it said the move would make it 'one of the most important operators in the food sector in Europe, with a substantial market share in Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom.' Newlat Food manufactures Buitoni products under a licensing deal with US giant Nestle Newlat Food, which recently acquired Italian dairy company Centrale del Latte d'Italia, manufactures Buitoni products under a licensing deal with Swiss multinational Nestle. Premier Foods shares have fallen 1.6 per cent to 97p, while shares in Newlat Food shares rose 0.2 per cent to 5.07 in Milan. By PTI CHANDIGARH: Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday urged protesting farmers to ease their ongoing 'rail roko' agitation and allow goods trains to pass through, in the larger interest of the state. However, he reiterated his government's complete support to the farmers in their fight against the Centre's new farm laws. Different farmers' bodies had stepped up their agitation by resorting to blocking rail tracks for an indefinite period from October 1 in the state to protest the new farm legislations. Although farmers under the banner of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee have been squatting at rail tracks in Amritsar and Ferozepur since September 24. In an appeal to the protesting farmers, the chief minister urged them to ease their rail blockade in order to ensure that the state is able to meet its critical needs and ensure that the citizens, including the farming community, are not put to any serious inconvenience in the coming days. In a statement here, the chief minister pointed out that due to the prolonged blockade of goods trains, the situation at Punjab's coal plants is critical and they are left with only five to six days' supply of coal. Once the supplies run out, the government will be forced to shut down these plants, which will severely impact the state's electricity supply and cause immense hardship to the citizens, he said. Further with not a single fertilizer rake entering Punjab for the last one week, there could be severe shortage of fertilizers for use by farmers for sowing of the wheat crop, he said. There is, therefore, an urgent need to allow inflow of fertilizer rakes into the state to ensure that there are sufficient stocks for the Rabi season, he said. Singh also pointed to the need to create space for storage of rice and wheat, to be harvested by Punjab's farmers in the coming seasons. For this, the existing stocks of these foodgrains would have to be lifted and dispatched by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to other parts of the country, he said. Singh asked the farmers to take cognisance of these grave concerns and let goods trains to ply through Punjab in order to allow movement of coal, fertilizers and food grains. Such movement was essential to prevent any serious inconvenience to the farmers and other Punjabis, he said, exhorting the Kisan Unions to heed his personal request in the larger interest of the state. Insurers have succeeded in dismissing COVID-19 business-interruption lawsuits in 17 out of 23 cases heard so far, with a growing number of judges finding that some tangible alteration of a property is required to trigger coverage under commercial property policies. Motions to dismiss were denied in six cases, with three of those rulings from the same judge. No one expected every court in the country to grant all of these early motions to dismiss, said attorney Steven Badger, who defends insurers for the Zelle law firm. That is an obvious trend showing that in the vast majority of these cases there was no credible argument for coverage. In a ruling on Tuesday, U.S. District Court Judge Charles R. Wolle in Des Moines, Iowa became one of the latest judges to find no merit to arguments that a government closure order by itself constitutes a direct physical loss to a property. He dismissed with prejudice a lawsuit filed by Oral Surgeons P.C. against Cincinnati Insurance Co. Judge Wolle did not get into details in his two-page order, but other judges have explained their reasoning at length. On Sept. 21, U.S. District Court Judge Robert W. Gettleman in Chicago dismissed a lawsuit filed by Sandy Point Dental seeking coverage for COVID-19 closure losses. In his opinion, Gettleman noted what a colleague in New York wrote when rejecting a similar claim by a magazine against an insurer. That opinion said the coronavirus damages lungs. It doesnt damage printing presses. The coronavirus does not physically alter the appearance, shape, color, structure, or other material dimension of the property, Gettleman wrote in his order. Consequently, plaintiff has failed to plead a direct physical loss a prerequisite for coverage. U.S. District Judge Cathy Ann Bencivengo in San Diego wrote an 11-page order on Sept. 11 granting a motion by Farmers Group Inc. to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Pappys Barber Shops. The judge gave Pappys an opportunity to show how an amended pleading might persuade her that coverage is owed, but also said any amendment is likely to be futile. Bencivengo said no coverage is owed under Farmers policy unless government orders, at a minimum, prohibit access to the insured premises due to a direct physical loss of or damage to property elsewhere. The policy insures property, in this case plaintiffs property and physical places of business, and not plaintiffs business itself, Bencivengo explained. To that end, the civil authority coverage provision only provides coverage to the extent that access to plaintiffs physical premises is prohibited, and not if plaintiffs are simply prohibited from operating their business. A database created by the Zelle law firm lists 17 COVID-19 cases that have been dismissed in 11 jurisdictions, and four where motions to dismiss were denied. A separate database maintained by the University of Pennsylvania Carey School of Law shows two additional cases where dismissal motions were denied. Three of the dismissal motions were denied by the same judge: U.S. District Judge Stephen Bough for the Western District of Missouri in Kansas City. In Studio 417 Inc et al v Cincinnati Insurance Co., Bough said the plaintiffs plausibly alleged that coronavirus was a physical substance that attached to and damaged properties, rendering them unsafe and unusable. Bough later rejected two other insurer dismissal motions. He has not ruled on the merits of any of the cases. A U.S. District Court Judge in Orlando, Fla; a state judge in Bergen County, N.J. and a state judge in Philadelphia have also denied motions to dismiss COVID-19 business-interruption claims, the databases show. Those cases remain pending. Badger said the judges who denied motions to dismiss COVID-19 lawsuits did not determine that coverage is owed. It means only that accepting the pleaded facts in the lawsuit as true, the court believed there may be some argument to be made for coverage, he said. In these cases the insured must still survive a motion for summary judgment and then establish coverage at trial. Insurers still a long way to go. The University of Pennsylvania database shows 1,099 lawsuits seeking coverage for COVID-19 losses have been filed so far. The pace of new filings has slowed. The litigation tracker shows 30 cases were filed in the week ending Sept. 14, compared to a weekly peak of 70 cases filed during the week ending May 4. Topics Lawsuits Carriers COVID-19 USA Property A 26-year-old Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader was stabbed to death in a clash between two groups in Thrissur on Sunday night, police said. The ruling CPI (M) said Sangh Parivar outfits were behind the murder of P U Sanoop but local people said a clash between two groups led to the murder. Police also ruled out political angles in the latest killing. Police can find out the motive only after investigation. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) will probe the murder, Thrissur police commissioner A Aditya said after visiting the crime scene. Police said they identified four accused and they would be arrested soon. Three other party workers were also injured in the clash. State Local Self government minister A C Moideen, who hails from the area, was first to blame Sangh Parivar outfits but BJP and RSS leaders denied any role in the murder. It is a political murder. Bajrang Dal activists and some members of right wing groups committed this heinous crime, said the minister after visiting the spot. CPI(M) state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan also said it was a political murder. But the Bajrang Dal said it did not have a unit or workers in the area where the murder took place. Local people said tension was brewing in the area between two groups and Sanoop, CPI(M) branch secretary, came there to broker peace but it fizzled out and clashes began. It was a clash between two groups of goons. The ruling party is on the back foot after a number of corrupt deals including gold smuggling, drug seizure and Life Mission project. It wants to divert attention from these incidents so all criminal incidents are being branded as political violence by the party, said BJP spokesman B Gopalakrishnan. On August 30 two activists of the Democratic Youth Federation of India, the youth wing of the CPI(M), were stabbed to death in a similar incident in Venjarammoodu in Thiruvananthapuram and the party had blamed the Congress for the twin murders. A day after the killing of former BJP councillor Manish Shukla in Titagarh area of North 24-Parganas district in West Bengal, BJP national general secretary and in-charge of the state Kailash Vijayvargiya demanded CBI inquiry to investigate the role of police in the case. Shukla was shot dead on Sunday evening by two unknown bike-borne assailants while he was attending a party meeting at B T Road, following which he was taken to a nearby private hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Condemning the incident, Vijayvargiya said that since the incident occurred near the Titagarh police station, it prompted the party to suspect the role of police in the case. I demand CBI investigation to probe the role of Barrackpore Police Commissioner Manoj Verma and Barrackpore Additional Commissioner Ajay Thakur in the incident," he said. Our MP Arjun Singh has claimed that Mamata Banerjee is sending supari killers to kill him and party leaders. Considering the allegations, we demand CBI inquiry," he added. The state BJP also called a 12-hour bandh in Barrackpore area on Monday to protest against the incident. Blaming the Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the incident, state BJP chief Dilip Ghosh said that Shuklas murder was an example of TMCs politics. The horrific murder of BJPs youth leader, lawyer and former councillor Manish Shukla is reprehensible. This is an example of the bloody politics of TMC. Can any justice be expected from the state government?," he said. BJP MP Arjun Singh also held the TMC responsible for Shuklas killing" and claimed that shots were fired at him from a carbine. Manish Shukla was killed with a sophisticated weapon, which is leading to suspicion that the police and the administration are involved in it," he said. Meanwhile, Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed concern over the law and order situation in the state and summoned the Additional Chief Secretary, Home, and the DGP on Monday morning. ACS Home @MamataOfficial and DGP @WBPolice have been summoned at 10 am tomorrow in the wake of worsening law and order situation leading to the dastardly killing of Manish Shukla, Councillor, Titagarh Municipality in political party office," Dhankhar said in a tweet. A team of senior party leaders including general secretary Sanjay Singh, MPs Arjun Singh, Saumitra Khan and Jagannath Sarkar will visit Shuklas residence on Monday morning at 9:30 am. The district police have taken up the matter and started to investigate the case. Previously, in October 2018, a supervisor of Titagarh wagon factory identified as Satish Mishra was shot at in front of a Trinamool councillor. Arjun Singh, who was then a TMC MLA from Bhatpara, alleged that contract killers were hired by the BJP and the CPI(M) to kill Manish Shukla. Red Bull can build its own engine for 2022 and beyond, according to former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher. At Sochi, prior to Honda's shock decision last Friday to quit Formula 1 at the end of 2021, Schumacher had declared: "I wouldn't be surprised if we see Porsche in F1." But amid speculation Red Bull could now buy Honda's F1 operations, he tells Sky Deutschland that a better option for Red Bull might be to run its own engine program. "They certainly have the strength and the means for that," Schumacher, who once worked very closely with Alpha Tauri boss Franz Tost, said. "Financially it wouldn't be a problem. In Honda, they also have a partner who can help them during the transition phase. "Perhaps Red Bull can take over the development department in Milton Keynes afterwards. Then they can finance it themselves," the German added. However, Russian F1 commentator Alexey Popov thinks becoming an engine supplier would be a mammoth task for Red Bull. "It is unclear what they should do after Honda leaves," he told Match TV. "If Mercedes stays in F1, it won't give its engines to them. Ferrari too. That leaves Renault, who are obliged by the rules, but they parted with Red Bull so badly that it would be a very unpleasant collaboration. "The last opportunity is to buy out what Honda leaves behind. But even then there is a problem with the production base, which is not in Europe like the other teams. So this would be very difficult too," Popov added. Yet another major consideration for Red Bull is that Honda's departure is sure to trigger a potential exit clause in Max Verstappen's contract. "This could provoke an attempt for Verstappen to negotiate with Mercedes," Popov said. "For Russia, it (Honda quitting) wouldn't be bad because if Honda had stayed, they probably would have tried to put Tsunoda in Kvyat's place and now this will most likely not happen," he added. "In any case, the coming days will be eventful." (GMM) District Attorney Neal Pinkston has concluded that a county deputy's use of force was justified in his fatal shooting of a man in an incident at Sale Creek following receipt of a TBI report. Hays later died. Officials said Monday, "The Hamilton County District Attorney's Office has finished reviewing a TBI investigation involving an officer-involved shooting. The incident occurred on May 18 at 16295 Crestview Dr. in Sale Creek. During a traffic stop at that location, Hamilton County Sheriff's Deputy Jordan Ross-Long shot Tyler Hays after Hays reportedly fought with the deputy.Hays later died. "Not long after the incident, District Attorney General Pinkston asked the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) to investigate the officer-involved shooting. This morning, General Pinkston released the results of his review, stating that the use of force in this incident was justified." DA Pinkston said, "After reviewing the TBI's investigative file and applicable state law, there is no evidence of criminal liability on the part of the involved HCSO officer." The usual sounds of children shouting gleefully as they pour out of their classrooms at the end of the school day are missing at Ampain D.A primary school in western Ghana. As Bahibo Natacha walks across the school compound, she cant help but think of how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the situation in the school. My work has been badly affected because school is now closed, says the 40-year-old French teacher. Before, my students had picked up their French studies well but now, I worry that they will fall back. She has been teaching at the school in Ampain refugee camp since 2014. I decided to take up teaching because I love children, says the Ivorian refugee, who worked as a microbiologist in Ivory Coast before she fled to Ghana in 2011, due to post-election violence. I decided to take up teaching because I love children. Now living in Ampain with her mother and two children, she has taken up teaching with a passion, teaching French to grade three and four students. I enjoy teaching so much. I use games to engage and teach the children which makes the classes enjoyable, she adds. With the school closures, she has been giving classes to students for at least two hours daily, using e-readers procured by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. During the sessions, all COVID-19 health measures are observed. UNHCR has also installed television sets in the camp to enable children connect to the various TV learning channels. USAID, in partnership with the Ghana Education Service, has also provided workbooks for lower primary students to do revisions with their parents and guardians via radio lessons. I believe these measures are working as the children are learning something, she says. Further north, in Mali, teachers Issa Farazi and Maria Diarra are conducting classes in much more complex conditions, where schools, teachers and students are often targeted by various armed groups. In recent months, there has been a sharp increase in attacks in the Sahel region, forcing people to flee into Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger which share borders. Gaimava Ruth is a volunteer teacher at Minawao public school in Minawao camp, Cameroon. UNHCR Cameroon Maria Diarra teaches at Tobine school in the volatile Hausa Foulane commune in Mali's Gao region. UNHCR Mali The main challenge we face are emergencies due to insecurity, says Issa, the director of Ntahaka undergraduate school in Ntillit commune. Its difficult to secure the whole school, the teachers and especially the children. Maria, who teaches at Tobine school in Hausa Foulane in Gao region agrees, noting that the volatile security situation is of concern to all. During conflict, teachers and students are all afraid and we cant go to work sometimes, adds the 25-year-old teacher. Even with these challenges, coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic, the teachers still keep going. The love I have for my job and for the children motivates me the most, says Maria. Issa agrees, adding, that the responsibility of passing on knowledge to children and the community is important for their future. Gaimava Ruth, 32, has been a volunteer teacher at Minawao public school in Minawao camp in northern Cameroon for four years. Her biggest challenge is helping refugee children deal with the traumas they have endured, particularly survivors of Boko Haram attacks. First of all, I have to help them remove it from their minds that they are different from other children in the host community, she says. I help them understand that we are all equal and they must have hope for their future. She is encouraged by the various measures in place to prepare for when schools reopen such as the installation of hand washing devices, provision of hand sanitizer and the systematic wearing of masks. Education is very important for every child...that is why we will not give up. The community understands the importance of education and the need for their children to respect these government measures so they can stay safe, she explains. On World Teachers Day, marked every 05 of October, teachers worldwide, especially refugee teachers, are celebrated for their courage, passion and dedication to ensure students continue learning. The day provides aunique opportunity to take stock of the challenges that teachers face and their role in achieving global education targets. For these refugee teachers, learning must go on, no matter what this is after all, their calling. Education is very important for every child so that they can become whoever they dream of becoming. That is why we will not give up, says teacher Bahibo. Writing by Catherine Wachiaya in Nairobi, Kenya with reporting from Patience Folley in Ghana, Leandro Salazar in Mali and Moise Amedje in Cameroon. Ashley Banjo attends the National Television Awards on January 25, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images) Diversity star Ashley Banjo has admitted he was worried about the safety of him and his family in the aftermath of the Britains Got Talent dance routine which amassed over 25,000 Ofcom complaints. Banjo and his dance troupe performed a powerful routine on the ITV talent show last month which intended to sum up the tumultuous issues the world has faced in 2020. One section of the routine depicted Banjos neck being knelt on by a police officer, in reference to the death of George Floyd which sparked mass Black Lives Matter protests across the globe earlier this year. The dance led to TV regulator Ofcom receiving thousands of complaints from viewers, and members of Diversity told of the backlash also including racial abuse and threats. Watch: Diversitys BLM-inspired routine Banjo has now admitted the negative response made him concerned for the safety of his family. Read more: Diversity have 'never been prouder' following ITV's backing, says Ashley Banjo Speaking of the concerns to GQ Magazine, Banjo said: I rang home and said to my wife, Put the alarm on, make sure youre OK. Or she would ring me and be like, Ash, if youre going out for a run, you know, just make sure that youre OK. Jordan Banjo, Perri Kiely and Ashley Banjo of Diversity attend the Nickelodoen Slimefest at Blackpool Pleasure Beach on October 19, 2019. (Photo by Shirlaine Forrest/Getty Images for Nickelodeon Slimefest) Even though we never said it out loud to each other, it affected our way of thinking and our behaviour to an extent. It affected the way that we acted. He added: There were points when I was genuinely worried, you know, points when I would think to myself, Will it be safe to go here or go there? Read more: Alesha Dixon shares emotional response to Diversitys BLM-inspired routine Even now, you know, sometimes I'll look and go, that could be a group of people that really disagrees with me; you don't know how theyre going to [react] when you put your neck out on the line for what you believe in. Its caused a pretty visceral reaction from people. Ofcom eventually dismissed the complaints and Banjo and Diversity received the full backing of ITV. Watch: Piers Morgan rips into BGT viewers who complained about Diversity's BLM performance Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 5 : On expected lines, Monday saw Kerala's daily Covid positive cases dip to 5,042 and the immediate reason was only 38,696 samples were sent for testing. The highest single-day tally came on Friday when 9,258 cases turned positive and 63,175 samples was tested. Over the past months, Mondays generally record lower cases as fewer samples are sent for testing on Sundays. A statement issued here by state Health Minister K.K. Shailaja said that at present 84,873 active cases were reported on Monday while 1,49,111 people have been cured of the disease. "Monday saw 4,640 people turned negative and 23 deaths were also reported, taking the death toll to 859. Across the state 2,58,446 people are under observation at various places and includes 30,504 people in hospitals," said Shailaja. 722 hot spots are there in the state at present. Leader of Opposition Ramesh Chennithala slammed Shailaja and said that after the cases spiked, Shailaja appears to have gone missing and so has Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan whose daily press meetings also have stopped as they have nothing to say. The Prairie Doc: Do your part for the person across the table columns The Gambias Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC) is to look into how at least 56 West African nationals, including 44 Ghanaians, died in 2005 when it resumes public hearings on October 12, in Banjul. The TRRC took two breaks this year following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Baba Galleh Jallow, the TRRC Executive Secretary, explained in a statement: The decision to resume public hearings was taken after careful consultations and considerations of the COVID-19 situation in the country. The TRRC is also cognisant of the palpable desire of the Gambian public for hearings to resume. The families of the West African migrants who were killed and 11 human rights organisations around the world have been pushing for the last 15 years to find out what happened to the victims who were allegedly murdered by members of the Gambian security forces acting on the orders of then President Yahya Jammeh. A credible international investigation is needed if were ever going to get to the bottom of the 2005 massacre of West African migrants and create the conditions to bring those responsible to justice, said Emeline Escafit, legal adviser at TRIAL International. Until now, information has come out in dribs and drabs, year after year, from different sources. On July 22, 2005, Gambian security forces arrested the migrants on suspicion of involvement in a coup attempt after their boat, which was bound for Europe, landed in The Gambia. Over the next 10 days, the migrants 44 Ghanaians, nine Nigerians, two Togolese, and nationals of Cote dIvoire and Senegal, plus one Gambian were killed in The Gambia or taken across the border into Senegal, shot and their bodies dumped in wells. I have been fighting for 15 years for truth and for justice for my companions who were killed, said Martin Kyere from Ghana, who jumped into the forest from a moving truck carrying other detained migrants who were killed shortly afterwards. When Mr Kyere returned to Ghana, he began rallying the victims families. African leaders say that migrants should be treated with dignity, but for us, honouring their memory means justice, not lies and cover-ups. The groups seeking justice for the Ghanaian victims include Africa Legal Aid (AFLA), based in The Hague, and the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative Africa Office, which established the Gambia Task Force in 2007. During the 17th Assembly of States Parties (ASP) to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2018, AFLA convened a side event on bringing Jammeh to Justice. Mr Kyere, one of three Ghanaian survivors of the 2005 massacres, was invited to the AFLA meeting at which he asked why there had been no justice for the West African migrants. In Ghana, we have Circuit Courts, we have High Courts, we have the Appeal Court, and we have the Supreme Court, he said. In Africa, we have the ECOWAS Court and the African Court, so why can't there be justice for Jammeh's victims? A campaign group, Jammeh2JusticeGhana, launched in Accra in 2018, called for prosecution of Mr Jammeh. Bringing Jammeh to trial in Ghana would be only a first step to ensure that the former Gambian strongman does not escape the wings of justice, said Evelyn Ankumah, AFLA Executive Director. During the launch, the Chairman of the event, Justice Emile Short, the first Chairperson of the Ghana Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice, and former ad litem Judge at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, highlighted the judicial options available for Mr Jammeh to be prosecuted by the Ghanaian government. Pointing out that extradition of Mr Jammeh to Ghana would be required, Justice Short opined: Given the evidence that has been compiled, and the gravity of the offences, which have been demonstrated by those who have testified to it, I think that a momentum can be gathered to ensure international support for a request for extradition of Yahya Jammeh to Ghana to face trial. In December 2019, President Nana Akufo-Addo told the media that having heard the confessions by the Junglers, members of Mr Jammehs death squad, the Gambian government should instigate the trials of the people who had been named. The Gambian government said that it was awaiting the recommendations of the TRRC, expected in 2021, before deciding on which Jammeh-era crimes to prosecute. The Commissions initial plan was to finish public hearings this month. However, as a result of two suspensions of public hearing due to the COVID-19 situation, that is clearly not possible, said the TRRCs Jallow. As things stand, hearings may continue into the first quarter of 2021. Source: GNA 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 There is something about queuing up with a tray that makes me terribly nostalgic. Immediately, I am transported back to the seventh grade, the first time I ever ate in a cafeteria, and I am flooded with memories of steamer trays of gluey macaroni and cheese, slabs of (mystery) meatloaf and watery mashed potatoes served by gruff lunch ladies in perpetually askew hair nets. I recall being delighted that I was being afforded a choice (albeit a limited one, but still!) in what I had for lunch every day rather than accepting whatever bagged sandwich-and-fruit combo my mother prepared for me. And, to top it all off, the food was hot! Now this was fine dining. While their heyday has long since past, cafeterias were once insanely popular. The exact origins are contested, but many historians date their American inception to the late 1890s, and for the next 50 or so years, cafeterias were the dominant style of lunch room eateries. Unfortunately, the traditional cafeteria, which by standard definition is a self-service dining operation in which customers physically choose their entrees, side dishes and desserts as they move down the display line, is a dying breed of restaurant in the United States. Only a handful of cafeterias remain in Houston, and while many continue to serve most of their original menu items (Cleburne comes to mind), they have undergone significant changes. Greater attention to hygiene precautions has led many establishments to shift to a model in which patrons point to their desired dishes and employees complete the hand-off, and many have modernized their dining spaces in an attempt to stay relevant and attract new generations of clientele. Not so at Dinner Bell, an East End cafeteria and bakery that is old school in every sense of the word. Stepping into Dinner Bell on a late weekday morning is like stepping into a time machine, as everything from the furniture to the food seems virtually unaltered since its 1952 opening. Although the unkind among us could describe the decor as drab, I prefer to call it "brown minimalist" as the chair cushions, accents and wall art are all shades of the aforementioned hue and simple in structure and design. There are other quaint and anachronistic features, such as label misspellings, incongruous tchotchkes and posted instructions to pray before your meal in accordance with different religious denominations (Catholic, Jewish, Protestant). The breakfast and lunch options, which include regular as well as rotating daily specials, are largely confined to the classics: sausage and cheese on a roll; turkey with dressing (never "stuffing," mind you); liver and onions; broccoli and cheese casserole; buttered corn, carrot salad, jello, and fruit and cream pies, packaged by the slice on plates enveloped in clear wrap. My go-to order is the chicken and dumplings, thick with shreds of white and dark poultry meat and hefty, asymmetrical dough pockets. Its schmaltzy, hearty and best enjoyed on a rainy day. What is noticeably different, and somewhat painfully so, are Dinner Bells patrons. One can imagine a heyday, probably sometime during the 1960s, when the cafeteria bustled with couples, families and local workers, all searching for affordable yet appetizing sustenance. The majority of its 2020 patrons, at least from my repeated anecdotal observations, are pushing at least 70though once and again I have spotted a random youngun accompanying an older friend or family member. If this makes you sad...well, good. Cafeterias in Houston need not go the way of all flesh just because its 2020, and so much else has. Lets put our money where our maudlin mouths are, and when scavenging for supper, consider Dinner Bell and others of its ilk, like Cleburne, Mikkis and Treebeards. It can be a trip to another time, and though simple, it may be just what you needed. The Iranian Foreign Ministry on Monday warned Armenia and Azerbaijan over any assault on its border towns and counties as the escalation of violence rises between the two nations across northwestern Iran's borders. Comments by Saeed Khatibzadeh, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman, came after several mortar shells hit Iranian villages across the border over the past days. According to IRNA official news agencies, Ali Amiri, governor of Khoda Afarin country in Iran's East Azerbaijan province said on Thursday that five shells had hit Iranian areas near the borders, two of which fell on residential areas. A six-year-old child was injured in the incident. Video carried by the Iranian state television from the area showed at least two houses damaged by stray rockets and mortars. Khatibzadeh added on Monday that Iran had worked up a ceasefire plan after consultations with both sides of the dispute and other regional countries. The fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces continued on Sunday over the separatist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, with Azerbaijan accusing Armenia of targeting the country's cities that are far beyond the conflict zone. (Image Credit: AP). Ukraine to be unable to pay pensions in 15 years over demographic situation PM Shmyhal 16:15, 05.10.20 41187 The Cabinet of Ministers plans to launch a funded pension system as early as in 2021. Warbird Digest has just received the September, 2020 report from Chuck Cravens concerning the restoration of the Dakota Territory Air Museums P-47D Thunderbolt 42-27609 at AirCorps Aviation in Bemidji, Minnesota. We thought our readers would be very interested to see how the project has progressed since our last article on this important project. So without further ado, here it goes! Update The P-47 is progressing nicely. This month we will look at some fabrication shop work, fuselage and cockpit restoration progress, and several details concerning the wing restoration. Fab Shop It has been a while since we highlighted fabrication shop work, but parts are constantly being created as they are required by the restoration shop. Fuselage and Cockpit Aaron continued working on cockpit installations this month. One of the major items was the main switch box. Wings Creating a new set of wings is a complicated task that has been underway for months now, but progress is taking place every day. Southwest Pacific Radio Research One of the interesting facets of the restoration of P-47 42-27609 is the radio equipment, because the mounting had to be changed to accommodate the Christmas tree tank. The tank was placed where the radios originally mounted. 42-27609 had 3, SCR 274 high frequency transmitters in the fuselage when it was recovered. Despite being reequipped with SCR 274 comm radios, the airplane contained a terminal strip for an SCR-522, which wasnt used for SCR 274 installations. It also had a BC 966 IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) unit. The BC 966 was normally used with an SCR 522 comm radio, so it seems that 42-27609 left the Evansville factory with the very high frequency SCR 522. At the time it arrived in Townsville, Australia, the Fifth Air Force was using the high frequency SCR 274. Since the P-47 had SCR 274s installed, they were undoubtedly installed upon its May arrival in the SW Pacific theater. During the time span of 42-27609s service, the Fifth Air Force issued a technical order on June 16th, 1944 requiring their squadrons to remove the Christmas tree tanks. There were three primary reasons for the order. Firstly, the tanks presented a fire hazard. Secondly, their removal would facilitate the installation of VHF radios (SCR-522s). Finally, and perhaps most importantly, as documented in their fine book, Check Six, James Curran and Terry Poprovaks note, Aside from the supposedly better communication thus afforded, such a change was essential in order to communicate with naval aircraft. [James C. Curran and Terrrence G. Popravak, Jr., Check Six, (Casemate Publishers, Pghiledelphia and Oxford,2015) 141] This modification is also documented in the squadron histories of several 5th Air Force squadrons. However, 42-27609 never underwent the conversion back to the SCR 522 VHF radio, nor did she have her Christmas tree tank removed. As such, it is unlikely that 42-27609 saw actual combat after July, 1944 when those changes were implemented at squadron level. And thats all for this month. We wish to thank AirCorps Aviation, Chuck Cravens for making this report possible! We look forwards to bringing more restoration reports on progress with this rare machine in the coming months. Be safe, and be well To The Citizens of Collegedale: Many have received a misleading communication about the city alleging massive over-spending which is absolutely not true. The Collegedale City Commission spends money in a conservative manner and implements projects in the best interest of all. These are the facts: Fiscal Year Budget: Every year, the city presents a fiscal year budget projections of revenue and expenditures. These are always estimates of revenues and expenditures and are very conservative. Budgets are required and approved by the state comptroller. Expenditures outside the budget or the unforeseen: The fiscal budget must be flexible. Every city experiences multitudes of things that can change projections throughout the year. Examples of unexpected expenditures include: Unbudgeted equipment repairs Storm damage New heat and air units Grants that come to our attention. For ex: Last year we were presented an opportunity to participate in a grant to replace two older dump trucks with new ones that are emission friendly. Total cost was $400,000. Grant paid 80 percent and Collegedale 20 percent or $80,000. Hall Income Tax and donations provide unexpected revenue that allows us to pay for special projects for our citizens. The state of Tennessee requires that the revenue and the expenditure are both shown. All spending is appropriately approved throughout the year for both budgeted and outside the budget expenditures. This is required by the state law. At year-end, the fiscal budget must be amended to reflect all changes to the budget. Again, this is required by the state law. Auditors: Local independent auditors conduct audits twice annually then submit the audit to the State of TN. The results and findings are reviewed with the city commission. We have received all positive feedback from our independent auditors and the state for many years. We are in a very strong financial position. The city of Collegedale has been recognized as one of the fastest growing cities in the state of Tennessee. Strong leadership, long-range planning, and being fiscally responsive year after year, have allowed us to adapt to the needs required by the double digit growth. The city of Collegedale is on solid financial footing and we remain very excited about the future. Bridgett Raper, on behalf of the city of Collegedale * * * Collegedale City Administration, working in concert with Mayor Katie Lamb, released a statement rebutting allegations of overspending by the City. I, a current candidate for Collegedales City Commission, recently mailed out a campaign advertisement noting the citys overspending of its budget by $5.4 million over the past seven years. That is the target of the citys response. I stand by the claims in my mailer. I cited my sources and my claims are truthful and honest. Furthermore, that the Mayor, who is up for re-election, would act in concert with city administration to respond to my mailer, is a blatant abuse of taxpayer resources. It is also a violation of the citys own personnel policies, which state that no employee shall participate in any campaign for an elective office during working hours or when on duty. The city states that their budget is always estimates of revenues and expenditures, but for the last six years for which audits are available, Collegedale is the only city in Hamilton County which has gone over its initial budget five of those six years no other city has done so. Collegedale is also the city in Hamilton County which has most exceeded its initial budgets. The city makes claims that there are often unbudgeted expenditures due to equipment repairs, storm damage, grants, and unexpected revenues. However, there are already line items in the budget for equipment repairs, and if these are proving inadequate, they should be adjusted to accurately reflect the actual amounts needed. The city manager refused to pursue FEMA reimbursement for costs related to storm damage cleanup, despite Chattanooga and East Ridge both doing so. Their claims that a federal grant providing an 80/20 match to replace two dump trucks is hardly an unexpected expense, as it was originally applied for in January 2016, and was approved in November 2018. The city claims that they have received all positive feedback on their audits for many years. But these claims are untruthful. The citys FY 2015 audit found that the citys accounting software did not allow them to reconcile bank accounts monthly, receipts for credit card purchases were not available for all purchases sampled, and that expenditures from the citys Drug Fund exceeded the amount budgeted. For FY 2016, bank statements were still not being reconciled, and expenditures in the Technology Fund exceeded the amount budgeted. For FY 2017, bank statements were still, again, not being reconciled monthly, the Airport Enterprise Fund operated at a loss, and the city failed to submit timely payment to an engineering firm for expenses reimbursed by TDOT. In FY 2018, the city was not monitoring odometer readings entered at their fuel station, and expenditures from the Drug Fund again exceeded the budgeted amount. In FY 2019, the citys Airport Enterprise Fund was again operating at a loss. Finally, the citys statement notes Collegedales double digit growth. Collegedales population, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, has grown by 1,756 people from July 2013 to July 2019, and the citys budget has grown from $7.1 million to $11.57 million over the same time frame. The addition of 1,756 residents isnt justification for the citys budget to increase by over $4.4 million. Matthew Sadler * * * The city of Collegedale financial solid ground or quicksand? In business, you build capacity to overcome hurdles. This capacity ensures that an organization can survive adversity. Collegedale claims to be on "solid financial grounds" today but is that because of its current leadership or despite it? Are our elected officials spending this accrued capacity to hide the truth? With no plan for the future? In 2019 the city-owned airport lost $70,000. According to Mayor Katie Lamb, "The $70,000 loss is a result of the depreciation of hangers and other airport properties." Maybe this was a fluke? after all, it happens. Let's take a look at the public works vehicle depreciation. The city had two dump trucks with failed emissions resulting in $80,000 of unplanned expenses. The airport depreciates, but dump trucks don't? One thing is for sure; depreciation is a guarantee. How about the 39 cent tax increase? Was it really needed, or did all the "depreciation" come due at once? This burden could have been distributed evenly over time, so the increase matched the community's growth rate. The city conducts annual audits twice a year, surely that will catch any issues? Audits are only procedural verification to ascertain the accuracy of financial statements. It does not evaluate the efficacy of the business plan. A business could be financially in the negative, but as long as they document it appropriately, they will still pass an audit. These challenges could have been negated if Collegedale addressed their challenges and opportunities by creating a 2040 strategic plan. This would outline the tools and practices required to shape a more coherent long-range future. We need to ensure we have a safe, resilient community and a future built on solid ground. Stewardship is a privilege given to our elected city officials, who we entrust with our finances, assets, and opportunities. We trust our officials to use these resources wisely. We need to hold our elected officials accountable for the capacity and goodwill they are spending. It is time to remind them who they work for. It is time to turn this quicksand into truly, solid ground. Christopher Twombley * * * I agree with Mr. Sadler. I believe it is unacceptable to weaponize the citys resources for political gain. I object to the city of Collegedales press release as it violates the city municipal code (4-304 of the Collegedale Municipal Code) which prohibits city employees from engaging in city elections during working hours and on city property. The citys defense of the Commission; which include incumbents Katie Lamb, Tim Johnson, and Debbie Baker; in response to a political mailer directly violates City Code. We need leaders who support the rules, not break them behind closed doors in city hall. I am calling upon our elected officials to uphold the codes of our city and hold anyone that is in violation of these codes accountable and take appropriate action. Alexander Brown 'He may have had his reservations about the law and order situation there, but the way the family of the victim was intimidated raises a lot of questions about the intentions of the DM.' IMAGE: Uttar Pradesh police performed the funeral of the Hathras victim in Hathras. Photograph: ANI Photo Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Ajay Singh Bisht's government is under pressure to suspend or transfer Hathras District Magistrate (Praveen Kumar Laxkar, who was caught on video allegedly intimidating the family of the rape victim to echo the district administration's version of events that led to the cremation of the girl at the dead of night. The UP government has suspended Superintendent of Police Vikrant Vir and his deputy Ram Shabd in the face of national ire. But a former IAS officer tells Prasanna D Zore/Rediff.com that the DM and SP should be solely held accountable in such cases. "They will then understand that they are on their own. Even if directions come from the CM's office they will know that the buck is going to stop at their doorstep and they will be held responsible and accountable to the situation that unfolds because of their actions," says this former IAS officer, who spoke on condition that his identity would not be revealed in this interview. The first of a two-part conversation: As a former IAS officer, what lapses are visible in the conduct of Hathras District Magistrate Praveen Kumar Laxkar when he went to meet the victim's family at their home? Three particular things to begin with. It is possible that he (Hathras DM Praveen Kumar Laxkar) could have apprehended that the family was against an immediate cremation (and call for a protest before the body was cremated). The other issue is you don't normally cremate a body in the night; more so, of a rape victim who was brutally assaulted and later succumbed to her injuries. What was the hurry in bringing the body back immediately after the post-mortem? Why couldn't it have been brought the next day during the daylight? This is a huge, huge, lapse. Secondly, if you apprehend some sort of law and order situation, you could have put preventive orders in place instead of trying to bully the family to cremate the body or burn it at night. Instead of bullying the family, you should have prevented the law and order situation (from taking an ugly turn if that was your apprehension); not prevent the right of the family to give a decent cremation, or perform their child's last rites, who is already, very clearly, been a victim of gender and caste violence. Thirdly, if you have something to say, if the administration has something to say, which is contrary to what the family is saying, then the administration has every right to say it. But it does not have any right to prevent access or curtail the freedom of movement of this family, or prevent the access of the media or anybody else to them, because the media would have only asked for their side of the story. And it is their right to speak with the media or anybody else they want to without any fear of intimidation or repercussions. You can counter it (the family's claims), you could have called up a press conference and the administration could have countered it. But instead, what you do is confine the family in a room, try to seal their village, and suppress the voice of an aggrieved family who has lost their daughter to rape and murder. It is not anybody's case that the administration can prevent all crimes at all places. That is not the case. But the steps that happened after her death in no way can be justified. Whatever happened in Hathras is completely incorrect. The post-mortem could have been done in the morning. The body should not have been cremated in the dead of the night. You don't outrage people by cremating a body in the absence of family members. Even more worrying was the fact when people are saying (justifying the Hathras DM's conduct) that he just went to give advice to the family. But if you are the same person against whom they have complained then you are not advising them. You are going to their home accompanied with cops, then you are not advising them, you are threatening them, you are bullying them. Could it have been handled differently? The sequence of events could have gone differently. Assuming that whatever the DM is saying is correct; that the family is lying, that the family had plans to call a rally if the dead body was given to them for cremation, still you don't have the right to cremate the body in the night without allowing the family members to conduct the final rites. If you were worried about the law and order situation, then you have the state law and order machinery at your disposal to prevent the fallout. Why do you think the Hathras DM allegedly intimidated the family? What made him think he will have impunity against such acts? Whatever happened in Hathras amply exemplifies the direction the country is moving towards; where this (the Narendra Damodardas Modi or the Ajay Singh Bisht) government wants to take it. It is not about Muslims, Dalits, or anybody else. It's about power. It's about absolute power. We are in power; we will come, we will fold our hands before the elections; we will listen to you, but you don't have the right to reject what we do once we are in power. That is the trend that we as a country are following right now. You know what is good for you and you want to do that, but you don't have a choice. And that is what will happen to every citizen. That won't remain restricted to just one particular community or caste. They want people who will not dissent against them; obey their orders blindly without any protests. What influence would this incident have on other young IAS and IPS officers across India and Uttar Pradesh? Wouldn't this lead to complete paralysis of law and order in states? Every DM or SP would now be paralysed fearing the consequences of her/his actions whether under pressure or otherwise? I completely agree with you on this. Precisely, that is the reason why every person who is in the position of responsibility and authority should strictly act as per the law; strictly follow the rule of law and the Constitution. There cannot be two sides to what was done by the Hathras DM. He may have had his reservations about the law and order situation there, but the way the family of the victim was intimidated raises a lot of questions about the intentions of the DM. Whatever was done against the wishes of the family is against the rule of law. There cannot be two sides to it. There is no other side here, so please don't try to justify what happened in the victim's house. U S President Donald Trump has been given a dose of steroid typically used for patients with severe cases of Covid-19 as part of his ongoing treatment for the illness. Mr Trump's medical team announced on Sunday the 74-year-old had been administered dexamethasone after his blood oxygen level dropped suddenly twice in recent days. Blood oxygen saturation is a key health marker for Covid-19 patients. A normal reading is between 95 and 100 per cent. Mr Trump's personal physician, Dr Sean Conley, said the former had a high fever and a blood oxygen level below 94 per cent on Friday and during another episode on Saturday. The disclosures about the US President's oxygen levels and steroid treatment suggested he is enduring more than a mild case of Covid-19. Still, Mr Trump's medical team said his health is improving and that he could be discharged as early as Monday. Amid the seemingly mixed messages, here's what you need to know about dexamethasone: Infected and contagious, Mr Trump briefly ventured out in a motorcade on Sunday to salute cheering supporters in a move since denounced as 'insane' by critics (Alex Edelman/AFP via Getty Images) / AFP via Getty Images What is dexamethasone? Dexamethasone is a widely-used steroid drug that works to reduce inflammation. It has been used to treat a number of different conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis and asthma. The drug is also used in end-of-life care and can work to prevent the immune system from destroying blood platelets in people with blood disorders. Patients with brain tumours may also be prescribed dexamethasone to reduce swelling around the growth. The drug was developed in 1957 and was first approved for medical use by the Food and Drug Administration in the US in 1958. Nowadays, it is available globally at relatively cheap prices. How has it been used amid the coronavirus pandemic? Donald Trump arrives at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center / REUTERS Dexamethasone has typically been used only for patients battling severe coronavirus infections. A preliminary trial in the UK carried earlier this year found the drug could help reduce the risk of death for some of the sickest Covid-19 patients in hospital. Researchers from the University of Oxford found the drug reduced deaths by up to a third among patients on ventilators, and by a fifth for those on oxygen. It was subsequently immediately approved to treat all UK hospitalised Covid-19 patients requiring oxygen, including those on ventilators. The study was meanwhile hailed as a major breakthrough in the fight against Covid-19 by scientists and politicians alike. What does the WHO say? The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends that doctors use dexamethasone to treat only serious cases of Covid-19. Following the Oxford study, Dr Mike Ryan, executive director of the WHOs health emergencies programme, warned the drug was "very powerful" and should not be given to patients with "mild" coronavirus infections. "Its exceptionally important that the drug is used under medical supervision this is not for mild cases, this is not for prophylaxis," he said. "This is a very, very powerful anti-inflammatory drug. It can rescue patients who are in very serious condition where their lungs and their cardiovascular system around the lungs may be very inflamed. So this allows possibly the patients are able to continue getting oxygen into the blood from the lungs for a very critical period by rapidly reducing inflammation and a critical period in the illness." He continued: It is not a treatment for the virus itself, it is not a prevention for the virus. In fact, steroids, particularly powerful steroids, can be associated with viral replication. In other words, they can actually facilitate the division and replication of viruses in human bodies. Loading.... "So its exceptionally important in this case, this drug is reserved for use in severely critical patients. live bse live nse live Volume Todays L/H More SpiceJet will launch non-stop flights connecting Delhi and Mumbai with Londons Heathrow airport from December 4, becoming the third Indian airline, and the first low-cost carrier, to fly to the British capital. These flights will operate under the air bubble agreement with UK, the airline said in a statement on October 5. "The airline will operate thrice-a-week to London including twice from Delhi and once-a-week from Mumbai," the airline said. The low cost airline's announcement comes less than two months after Vistara launched its maiden flight to London. The two airlines, along with state carrier Air India, continue to operate charter flights to London. SpiceJet in fact had claimed to be the first Indian low cost carrier to fly to London, when it operated the charter flight in August, to repatriate Indians. SpiceJet will use an Airbus A330-900 Neo aircraft for these flights. Sources added that the airline was in talks with Portuguese charter operator Hifly to take these aircraft on wet lease. The Indian airline though hasn't shared details. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show The A330-900 Neo is a 371-seater, twin-aisle aircraft that has a configuration of 353 economy and 18 business class seats. "This is a huge milestone for us and I am proud of the fact that SpiceJet will be the first Indian low-cost airline to operate non-stop long-haul flights to the UK. London is one of the busiest long-haul destinations from India and our convenient flight timings should suit the convenience of our passengers perfectly, said Ajay Singh, Chairman & Managing Director, SpiceJet. London is among the most popular destinations for travelers from India. It helps that the British Indians form the largest ethno-national group and make up for 6 percent of London's population. Till April 2019, Jet Airways was among the dominant players in the routes to London. But since it grounding, Air India was the only Indian carrier to fly to the British capital. Fare details SpiceJet has launched the new service with a 'promotional return fare' of Rs 53,555 on both the Delhi-London and Mumbai-London routes. "The one-way starting fare will be Rs 25,555 on Delhi-London and Mumbai-London routes, and Rs 29,555 on London-Delhi and London-Mumbai routes. In comparison, Vistara, which deployed its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on the route, had one-way fares from Delhi to London, start from Rs 29,912 for economy class. Earlier this year, SpiceJet was designated as an India scheduled carrier to fly to the UK and the US. It had secured slots in London's Heathrow Airport from September 1. While this was initially valid till October 23, the airline said that the Airport had later extended the slots for the entire winter schedule. Hispanic Heritage Month is a monthlong opportunity for people to recognize and celebrate the cultures, contributions and history of Americans who trace their roots back to Latin countries. Their stories are ones of perseverance, especially for the entrepreneurs amongst them. According to an article in USA Today, ...despite the opportunity gap between Latinos and other Americans, Latinos have become the fastest-growing small business owners across the U.S. Results from a recent study from Stanford University show that the number of Latino business owners grew 34 percent, compared to 1 percent for all business owners in the United States, and these businesses contribute about $500 billion to the US economy in annual sales. I had a call with Cesar R. Hernandez, the founder and managing director of Omni Public, to gain deeper insight into his story in observance of this month. Omni Public is a strategy, public affairs and public relations consulting firm. They specialize in civic innovation and technology deployment and help aid in the deployments of new concepts and ideas into the marketplace, while also helping to navigate media, government and industry. Some of the clients and candidates he has worked with include the likes of Tesla, Ford, Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, Bird, Scoot, Immertec, and most recently, one of America's brightest emerging political stars, Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. Hernandez proudly states the fact that the Hispanic culture is unique as it is an amalgam of races, ethnicities and cultures that produced its people. To me, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate and reflect on where we as a people have come regardless of racial, social or political issues these past 500 years, he says. The Incas had roads four-times longer than any Roman road. An engineering marvel at the time, the Aztec capital numbered one million people. The Mayans had a very sophisticated calendar and the Caribbean Tainos engaged in the first revolts against indigenous and African slavery. Today, their ancestors are still some of the brightest engineers, mathematicians and social justice leaders in America. This month is a time to reflect on the struggles our ancestors endured in their battle to build a more perfect and safer world. At first glance, one might assume that Hernandezs current success may have more or less been handed to him, but that is far from the truth. Heres what he had to say about his climb to the top as a Hispanic American man that had countless obstacles thrown his way, and a rich culture to fall back on as his strength and motivation to overcome it all. The struggle of the lion's den teaches appreciation One does not need to be an entrepreneur to know that what doesnt kill them makes them stronger. Those amongst us who have a rich family history that is full of battle scars can similarly gain inspiration from it. In the case of Hernandez, his parents are from Guatemala of the indigenous Mayan Kiche tribe. His great-great-grandfather fought for indigenous peoples rights in rural parts of the country, and his great-grandfather was orphaned and given up as a slave in Guatemala City. His grandmother was a political refugee after her democratically elected party was ousted in Guatemala City so she decided to leave the party and come to the United States. I like to think she went from the jungles of Guatemala to the Brooklyn jungle when she brought my mom over to NYC when she was only 17, says Hernandez. I was born and raised in South Brooklyn, New York in a one-bedroom apartment living with my grandmother, mother and little sister. I have seen gangs, crimes, suffering and lifes reality. I have lost friends to murder or prison and at one point faced homelessness, sleeping in a NYC train station and having nothing, but hope to survive. Today, through his public affairs firm Omni Public, Hernandez represents some of the top tech companies in the world and some of the finest political minds in the United States. He knows not to take anything for granted. For the first time in many generations, I am in a position to think about more than just survival. I am now in a position to thrive and positively impact society. Related: Strategies on Perseverance From 5 Seasoned Entrepreneurs Plowing through the opposition will leave them in the dust In the United States, Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) are more likely to be arrested and/or land in prison than any other demographic group. Although the Hispanic and Black population make up about 32 percent of the total population in the U.S, 56 percent of the U.S incarcerated population is Black or Hispanic. As a Hispanic male growing up in the United States, I faced a one-in-six chance of being arrested or going to prison. So, it comes to no surprise that by the age of 21 I had been arrested six times on wrongful charges and encountered police brutality firsthand, says Hernandez. I am persistent in my mission to prove that a BIPOC entrepreneur from Brooklyn N.Y can survive, make it out alive, and thrive. I am persistent because I am a catalyst for change and serve as an example to young BIPOC entrepreneurs that our future is not defined by statistics or our current environment, but instead by our ambitions. The source of Hernandezs motivation is the deeply ingrained knowledge of the struggles that his family endured in the face of persecution and mass generational migration. I refused to be a product of my environment, and instead became a product of my motivation, he says. That is also a large reason why Hernandez is one to face all challenges head-on. I have been faced with an immense amount of adversity in my life and strongly feel you should live in your truth," he says. "If the truth in that moment is struggle, then I face it head-on. I dont let it linger, ignore it or table it. Typically, challenges have a tendency to balloon or bleed into other aspects of your life if they go unchecked. So, I prioritize the challenge, go into suspended thought as to how I can assuage the issue, create a strategy, and execute. If my original game plan didnt work and things go south, I redirect my focus and come up with a new game plan. With that in mind, regardless of the challenge, I immerse myself in the process and shield the most vital aspects in my life so as not to affect them. Related: 7 Challenges Successful People Overcome Goals are met when life is lived forward Hernandez graciously accepts all the hardships of his past and knows to take all his experiences as a lesson in life in order to push forward and live forward. As he looks into the future, he wants to continue to build Omni Public and create more impact for others to make their futures brighter. I aim to be a part of building the future of cities and communities through the work of my clients," he says. "I strongly feel that there is no shortage of good ideas, but a shortage of individuals that can support those entrepreneurs to bring their ideas to fruition. And who knows... maybe one day I will run for office. Related: Welcome A New Generation Of Entrepreneurs: Here Are The UAE Winners Of The James Dyson Awards 2020 6 Ways A Remote Manager Can Kill Your Workplace Culture Perseverance and the Power of Ancestral Strength Copyright 2020 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved By PTI NEW DELHI: The AIIMS on Monday said the medical board has submitted its report on the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput to the CBI and any input regarding it should be obtained from the central probe agency. The medical board has ruled out murder in the death of Rajput, terming it "a case of hanging and death by suicide", the premier institute's forensic chief Dr Sudhir Gupta had said last week. In its conclusive medico-legal opinion to the CBI, the six-member team dismissed the claims of "poisoning and strangling", with Dr Gupta saying the panel did not find any trace of poison and drugs in the viscera. However, on Monday, the AIIMS said in a statement, "A medical board was constituted by Dr Sudhir Gupta, Head of the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology AIIMS, New Delhi as per request received by him from CBI for providing expert opinion in the case relating to the death of Sushant Singh Rajput. " "The medical board has submitted the report directly to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as required. Being a legal matter, any inputs on the report submitted by the medical board would have to be obtained from the CBI," it said. ALSO READ | 'U-Turn' must be explained: Sushant Singh's sister Shweta on AIIMS suicide theory The statement follows certain media reports questioning the outcome of the medical board's examination and Dr Gupta's comments ruling out murder. Rajput's family lawyer Vikas Singh said on Sunday that he was highly perturbed by the AIIMS' medico-legal opinion submitted to the CBI and would request the probe agency's chief to constitute a fresh forensic team in the case. "How could AIIMS team give a conclusive report in the absence of the body, that too on such a shoddy post mortem done by the Cooper hospital (in Mumbai) wherein the time of death is also not mentioned," he tweeted. On Saturday, Dr Gupta had said, "It is a case of hanging and death by suicide. We have submitted our conclusive report to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)," There was no injury on the body other than that of hanging. Also, there was no mark of struggle and scuffle. The ligature mark on the neck was consistent with hanging, he had said. The doctors' panel did not find any trace of poison and drugs in the viscera, Dr Gupta had told PTI, but refused to divulge any further details stating the case is subjudice. Rajput, 34, who made his silver screen debut in the critically acclaimed 'Kai Po Che' seven years ago, was found dead in his apartment in suburban Bandra in Mumbai on June 14. The CBI had taken over the probe from Bihar Police into the alleged abetment to suicide case filed by the actor's father K K Singh in Patna against Rajput's girlfriend Rhea Chakraborty and her family. Caring for any president presents a unique set of challenges. Like all doctors, Dr. Conley is bound by the Hippocratic oath to respect his patients wishes for privacy and to keep secret that which ought not to be spoken of outside. He is also a Navy officer caring for the commander in chief, whose orders he is obliged to follow. But all of that must be balanced against the publics right to have information about the health of the leader of the free world. And this particular leader, Mr. Trump, is well known for not wanting to look weak. I wouldnt want to be in that position, said Dr. Stephen Thomas, a retired Army doctor who is now the chief of infectious diseases at SUNY Upstate Medical University and a columnist for Forbes Magazine. I have sympathy for the guy. Think of it. He may have to tell one of the most powerful people in the world, No, youre not doing that, or Thats not a good idea. Dr. Conley is supervising a team of medical experts at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, including Dr. Sean Dooley, a pulmonologist, as well as an outside expert, Dr. Brian Garibaldi, the director of the biocontainment unit at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. To the surprise of many in medicine, one doctor not being consulted is Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, one of the worlds leading experts on infectious diseases. (Dr. Fauci is on the White House coronavirus task force, but he was sidelined when his statements of fact about the virus irritated the president.) I tried to put myself in his place, and I would have had a ground rule with all of the people who surround the president, said Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University. I would have said: We have a statement that we are going to put out and then I am going to be asked questions, and Im going to answer the questions straight. If you are uncomfortable with that please have your press office do the briefing. She participated in a meeting attended by a person who tested positive for COVID-19. President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen is self-isolating the day before the annual Ukraine-EU summit is to begin. "I've been informed that I participated in a meeting last Tuesday attended by a person who yesterday tested positive for COVID-19. In accordance with regulations in force, I'm therefore self-isolating until tomorrow morning. I've tested negative on Thursday & am tested again today," she wrote on Twitter on October 5, 2020. The president had to attend the annual Ukraine-EU summit to be hosted by Brussels on October 6. The summit was originally scheduled for October 1, but was slated over a delay in EU leaders' meeting. More news reports White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany announced Monday that she has tested positive for the coronavirus, another sign that the virus that has put President Trump in the hospital and killed more than 200,000 Americans is spreading through the White House. In a statement on Twitter, McEnany said she is not experiencing symptoms. In addition to the president and the first lady, members of Trumps staff and senior figures in his campaign have tested positive for the coronavirus since last week. McEnany said she did not know that senior Trump aide Hope Hicks tested positive for the virus before McEnany held a press briefing Thursday without a mask, a decision that has come under scrutiny for potentially exposing reporters and others present. The president was being treated at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for the fourth day Monday but his doctors did not release any additional information about his condition. His Twitter account was active throughout the morning, however, with unrelated political messages, mostly in all-capital letters, urging supporters to vote. It is unclear whether Trump or his social media aide Dan Scavino wrote them. Trump has been eager to send the message that he is fully engaged, releasing pictures and videos of himself sitting at a table at Walter Reed, sometimes with papers in front of him. His most audacious gambit, a joyride in the presidential motorcade Sunday evening, has drawn sharp criticism for endangering Secret Service agents and others involved in keeping him safe. Though the disease has taken Trump off the campaign trail for the final stretch, his advisors say they are continuing at least some activities without interruption. Tim Murtaugh, who heads campaign communications, said in an email that Bill Stepien, the campaign manager, remains in charge despite a COVID-19 diagnosis. His symptoms are mild and he is heavily engaged, as always, while working remotely, Murtaugh wrote. Ronna McDaniel, the chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, has also tested positive and Brad Parascale, the former campaign manager who had remained in charge of digital operations, left the campaign after a recent psychiatric episode. Murtaugh also said there would be no change in the campaigns door-knocking operations, despite the potential risk of further disease spread. At least three Republican senators have tested positive for the virus, while others are in quarantine. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer again criticized Republican leaders plans to move forward with hearings for Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett next week, demanding mandatory testing and that every Senator and relevant staff must have negative tests on two consecutive days and have completed the appropriate quarantining period during the hearings. ---Los Angeles Times Federal government money to pay for 50 per cent of the widening of the Centenary Bridge, plus contributions to the next stage of the Pacific Motorway upgrade and the Mount Lindesay Highway, are included in Tuesday nights federal budget. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk on Monday morning agreed to match the funding, meaning the $245 million Centenary Bridge widening project can now proceed. Work is expected to begin in the second half of 2021. A flyover of the new Centenary Bridge will be released on Monday by Queensland Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey. The team of the Ukroboronprom state concern has presented a comprehensive strategy for the transformation and development of the concern until 2030, which involves the reorganization of 60 enterprises of the concern into seven branch holdings: aircraft repair, armored vehicles, precision weapons, ammunition and special chemistry, radar systems, marine systems and special export, to the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Strategic Industries Oleh Urusky. "The coordination of the strategy with the Ministry of Strategic Industries is an important step for the transformation of Ukroboronprom into a qualitatively new holding company - Defense Systems of Ukraine," the state concern said in a press release, citing First Deputy Director General Roman Bondar. According to him, the strategy rests on four pillars: improving product quality, attracting engineering talent and raising social standards; seeking investments and setting up joint ventures; development of new technologies and development of new competitive product platforms to stimulate exports. The document describes the target model of a new defense holding company with the functions of a financial and corporate center for the management of industry associations. The transformation concept, according to the company's charter, must be approved by the supervisory board of the concern, after which it will be submitted for consideration and final approval by the Cabinet of Ministers. Ukroboronprom recalled that initially in May it proposed to reorganize 50 enterprises and unite 38 members of the concern, which account for 88% of the income, into six holdings, and said that the proposed concept takes into account all the comments and proposals of Urusky received during July-September of the current year. "The rest of the enterprises will be transferred to the management of other bodies, in particular, to the State Property Fund," the press service said. According to the release, it is also proposed not to include some of the concern's aircraft manufacturing enterprises, which should go to independent associations in the aerospace industry, in the future defense holding. A number of enterprises, including the concern, are proposed to be liquidated in the process of transformation. The final list of enterprises subject to reorganization must be approved by the supervisory board and the Ministry of Strategic Industries. Serbias president on Monday proposed that current Prime Minister Ana Brnabic stay in office paving the way for the formation of a new government more than three months after a parliamentary election. Autocratic leader Aleksandar Vucic announced his choice at a news conference that followed a meeting of his populist Serbian Progressive Party, which won an overwhelming majority in the June 21 vote. I hold Ana Brnabic in very high regard, he said. The June balloting in Serbia was the first held in Europe after the coronavirus outbreak. Serbia's authorities have faced criticism for abolishing most anti-virus measures before the vote, which led to a surge in new infections. Many Serbian opposition groups boycotted the June vote, saying that it wasn't free and fair because of the ruling party's tight grip on mainstream media and pressure on dissent. Two decades ago, Serbia ousted in a popular uprising then-autocratic leader Slobodan Milosevic after years of wars and international sanctions. Critics of Vucic, a former Milosevic-era government minister, accuse him of clamping down on hard-won democratic freedoms. He has denied this. Brnabic became Serbia's first female and openly gay prime minister in 2017, after Vucic resigned the post in order to take part in a presidential election. Brnabic's government formally seeks European Union membership while also maintaining close ties with Russia and China. It wasn't immediately clear when Serbia's lawmakers will vote to confirm Brnabic and her government. She has yet to reveal the composition of the future Cabinet. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 06:09:09|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for progress in Libya's peace process, by using the lull in fighting. "Recent developments represent a rare opportunity to make real progress in the search for peace and stability in Libya. We must seize it," he told a high-level event on Libya co-chaired by the United Nations and Germany. Guterres called on all Libyans to continue to work toward a lasting cease-fire, to contribute constructively to the UN-facilitated Libyan Political Dialogue Forum, and to always act with the interests of the country's people foremost in mind. The commitments made at the Berlin Conference on Libya in January must be upheld and implemented. This includes the full and unconditional implementation of the Security Council arms embargo, he said. Foreign deliveries of weapons and other military support must stop immediately. Guterres asked for joint efforts to restore Libya's ability to provide basic services and security to its population, whose living conditions have continuously deteriorated, not only as a result of the conflict but also due to poor governance and rampant corruption. He asked for the immediate, permanent and unconditional lifting of the blockade on the country's oil production and exports, which has had a crippling impact on the economy. Criminal human trafficking networks across the country must be dismantled immediately. Refugees and migrants held in detention in inhumane conditions should be released and provided with safe shelter, he said. The United Nations will continue leading and facilitating open dialogue to build stability, security and national unity among the Libyan parties, with the support of the international community, he said. Enditem Donald Trump Donald Trump's shock announcement that he has coronavirus and his subsequent hospitalisation has sent the US reeling. However, the 45th president is hardly the first to suffer from a major illness or even a global pandemic while in office. - Invoking the 25th - From George Washington to George W. Bush, here's a roundup of the US presidency's more memorable brushes with disease and death. The US Constitution's 25th Amendment allows presidents to temporarily hand power to the vice president while incapacitated, a process in which one organ -- the colon -- has played a starring role. Former president George W. Bush invoked the 25th Amendment in 2002 and again in 2007 while being sedated for routine colonoscopies, putting then-vice president Dick Cheney in charge for hours. Although the amendment was adopted in 1967, Ronald Reagan indicated in 1985 he did not believe he officially invoked it when he left then-vice president George H.W. Bush briefly at the helm while doctors removed a cancerous polyp from the president's colon. - Secret yacht surgery - Reagan said the period was too "brief and temporary" for the amendment to apply. Hoping to avoid public attention, former president Grover Cleveland covertly stowed away for surgery at sea on a friend's yacht in 1893. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show With the nation on the brink of an economic depression, Cleveland aimed to keep the cancer on the roof of his mouth a secret so as not to send the nation into a financial panic. He mostly succeeded. - Spanish flu - The tumor, five teeth and a piece of his left jawbone were reportedly removed somewhere off the coast of New York, and a rubber prosthetic was later inserted for aesthetics. Trump is hardly the first US president to be laid low by a global pandemic, or play down the dangers only to become infected by the disease. Woodrow Wilson caught the Spanish flu in April 1919 while in France for the Paris peace talks negotiating the end to WWI. - George Washington falls ill - Despite the grave nature of his health, his administration worked furiously to keep his illness from the general public. In 1790, George Washington caught such a bad flu it put the fate of the young nation in peril -- should the president die, so might the country. The street outside the presidential mansion, then in the temporary capital of New York, was closed off and covered in hay to muffle the noise while the first president, just a year into his administration, quietly convalesced. - Assassinations - "Beset by hiccups, Washington made strange gurgling noises that were interpreted as a death rattle," biographer Ron Chernow writes in his book "Washington, A Life." The president survived. Petersen House, the abode where Abraham Lincoln died in downtown Washington, is today part of the US National Park Service, a "dark tourism" destination where visitors can see where the 16th president spent his final hours after being shot in the head across the street at Ford's Theater. Lincoln died in the home's back bedroom the morning after the attack. He is one of four US presidents murdered in office, all by gunfire. James A. Garfield died of infection two months after being gunned down in 1881 by a disgruntled public office seeker. Anarchist Leon Czolgosz killed president William McKinley in 1901. And John F. Kennedy was famously shot while riding in an open-top convertible in Dallas in 1963. - Got milk? - In addition, Reagan was seriously wounded in a 1981 assassination attempt outside a Washington hotel by a deranged gunman. In 1850, president Zachary Taylor attended a July 4 dedication for the Washington Monument. After reportedly chugging iced milk and eating a large quantity of cherries, he fell ill and died several days later. Contemporaries blamed the milk. Historians say the matter is still up in the air. - Heart attacks and strokes - Three other presidents have also died of natural causes while in office: William Henry Harrison, Warren G. Harding and Franklin D. Roosevelt. From a non-lethal heart attack and stroke suffered by Dwight D. Eisenhower to Roosevelt's fatal cerebral hemorrhage, a number of sitting presidents have suffered very common but potentially deadly ailments. Following his bout with the Spanish flu, Wilson had a near fatal stroke in October 1919, after which his wife, Edith, secretly served as de facto decision-maker for his administration's remaining 17 months. OTTAWA - Some Canadian farmers can now apply for emergency funding to protect their workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Agriculture Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau said Monday. A $35-million program first announced at the end of July will subsidize farms purchases of personal protective equipment and sanitary stations and it will help to cover extra costs in cases of COVID-19 outbreaks. The government will cover 50 per cent of the costs under the program and 60 per cent if a farm is owned by women or youths. Our government will continue to support farmers and (food) processors, Bibeau said Monday. They are key partners in Canada sustainable economy recovery. Farmers in Saskatchewan, Alberta, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon and the Northwest Territories can apply. Bibeau said the government will announce programs that will be managed by the other provinces in the coming weeks. Wearing N95 masks has been standard at grain farms since before COVID-19, because farmers deal with dust and rodents around some of the bins, said Keith Degenhardt, the vice-president of Alberta Federation of Agriculture. So the pandemic brought a shock. We saw the price on personal protection equipment increased, said Degenhardt, who runs a crop and cow-calf farm with his family close to Wainwright, Alta. The program will be applied retroactively to cover any COVID-19-related costs between March 15 and the end of next February, Bibeau said. She said the program can apply equally to Canadian or migrant farm workers and it will prioritize farms at the highest risk of COVID-19 outbreaks. The number of workers and the amount of space they have in their workplaces and housing facilities will be key elements in identifying farms at high risk of COVID-19 outbreaks, Bibeau said. Last month, the government launched a $77.5-million program to help Canadian food processors respond to the safety needs of their workers. Lynn Jacobson, the president of Alberta Federation of Agriculture, said its important to understand that farmers have different operations and are affected differently by the COVID-19 pandemic. Some large farms with temporary foreign workers have faced extra costs for housing and separation of people. A lot of the farmers have bunkhouse-style housing because people are there for three months, four months, five months, he said. Its very very hard to separate people with that type of accommodation. Jacobson said some farmers had to accommodate one person per room instead of four per room. Those types of things are issues, and they cost quite a bit of money, he says. Bibeau said the new program is built to support temporary foreign workers on farms too. We are strengthening the employer-inspections regime and developing improved employer-provided living accommodation requirements for migrant workers, she said. We care deeply about the well-being of migrant workers. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct 5, 2020. This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship. Read more about: As part of the criminal suit brought by Cuban Prisoners Defenders (CPD), the organization filed papers last week before the International Criminal Court (ICC) revealing, among other issues related to the government's "medical missions" around the world, why Habana keeps the contracts that its professionals sign secret. These documents, which have been condemned by UN rapporteurs and organizations such as Human Rights Watch for constituting labor exploitation and slavery, are practically inaccessible. According to CPD's investigation to support its case, "622 Cuban doctors against the Cuban Government", only 33% of the professionals of the "missions" were presented with and delivered a copy of their employment contracts abroad. 35% were offered a contract that they signed, although they did not receive a copy, while the remaining 32% were not even supplied with an agreement indicating the conditions governing their employment. Neither do these documents, covered by agreements with other governments and multilateral organizations, appear for consultation in official publications, nor have they been presented in United Nations public access forums. The CPD asserts in its complaint that the agreements to which CPD had access "explicitly include a confidentiality clause between the two States that violates all the formal requirements for them be considered valid..." This situation constitutes a violation of the "publication principle", which the United Nations Organization upholds in Article 102 of its Charter, which reads: "Every treaty and every international agreement signed by any member of the United Nations after the entry into force of this Charter will be registered with the Secretariat and published by it as soon as possible". According to the rule, "no party to a treaty or international agreement that has not been registered in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 1 of this Article may invoke that treaty or agreement before any United Nations body." The "publication principle" appears in Article 26 of Decree-Law 191 of 1999,"On international treaties" published in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Cuba. As Havana's agreements fail to comply with the requirements that would render them a formal source of law, Cuban workers abroad lack the legal security requisite called for by several international legal instruments. Hence, they are subjected to various violations and harsh sanctions for not complying with the provisions of the island's authorities. The CPD points out in its criminal case that most of the countries with which the Government of Cuba has signed these agreements, such as Brazil, Uruguay and Ecuador, as well as the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), are signatories of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties. "Article 53 of that Convention establishes the agreements that are null and void: 'Any treaty that, at the time of its conclusion, violates a peremptory norm of general international law is void. For the purpose of this Convention, a peremptory norm of general international law is one accepted and recognized by the international community of States, as a whole, as a norm, and which may be modified only by a subsequent norm of general international law of the same nature." Hence, the agreements of the "medical missions" breach, in many cases, the Convention on the Abolition of Forced Labor, of which the Cuban Government, as a member of the International Labor Organization (ILO), is a signatory. CPD states in the document it submitted to the ICC that, for the same reason, civilian workers who leave "medical missions" must receive protection under the terms of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and their family members (ICRMW, 1990) which seeks to safeguard the rights of migrant workers and their families. Havana is not a signatory of this legal instrument. President Donald Trump just rolled out his new "Black Economic Empowerment Platinum Plan." The plan focuses on building on his achievements since 2016 to improve the lives of Black Americans by creating more opportunity to participate in a growing economy and to achieve greater security in life and property. A poll by The Hill and HarrisX released almost a month ago, after the Republican convention, showed approval for Trump surging among Blacks, to 24% -- triple the 8% he got in the 2016 election. A recent Washington Post/ABC poll and a recent Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll show the president at 9% and 5% Black support, respectively. If indeed the post-convention surge in support from Blacks is eroding, it's important to think about why that might be happening. The Census Bureau just published its annual report called "Income and Poverty in the United States: 2019." The data shows substantial economic gains among Black Americans that would very much justify strong new Black support for the president. Among the data reported is annual gains in real median income for all U.S. households, and for Black households in particular, from 1967 to 2019. The average U.S. household median income increased 6.8% from 2018 to 2019, the largest increase in history. However, the median Black household income increased even more -- 8%, also the largest in history. Furthermore, as American Enterprise Institute economist Mark Perry notes, the 8% increase was "almost nine times the average annual increase of 0.90% over the last half-century." The report also breaks out Black households by defining them as low-income, middle-income or high-income. Low-income is defined as $25,000 annual income or less, middle-income as $25,000 to $75,000 and high-income as above $75,000. In 2019, per the Census Bureau, 29.4% of Black households were high-income, compared with 9.1% in 1967. Forty-one percent of Black households were categorized as middle-income in 2019, compared with 46.4% in 1967, and 28.7% were low-income in 2019, compared with 44.5% in 1967. The defining landmark moment in 2019 was that, for the first time ever, the percentage of Black households categorized as high-income, 29.4%, exceeded the percentage of Black households categorized as low-income, 28.7%. The percentage of high-income Black households in 2019 was over three times that of 1967. If Black support is not strengthening with news like this, and is possibly even weakening, what is a possible explanation? One possibility is the aggressive and very well-funded disinformation campaigns the left disseminates into Black communities, shutting down good news and manufacturing bad news. I wrote a few weeks ago about a campaign initiated by my organization, the Center for Urban Renewal and Education, to disseminate into Black inner cities via billboards the message that the way out of poverty is finishing school, taking any job and getting married. As I reported, Black Lives Matter in Milwaukee immediately protested and got the billboard company, Clear Channel Outdoor, to take down the billboards. Economist Perry examined the new Census Bureau data and checked the characteristics of high-income versus low-income families. His summary: "(I)ndividuals in high-income households are far more likely than individuals in low-income households to be well-educated, married, working full-time, and in their prime earning years. In contrast, individuals in lower-income households are far more likely ... to be less-educated, working part-time ... and living in single-parent or single households." The Census Bureau data bears out to the letter the truth about escaping poverty that my organization had posted in Black neighborhoods and Black Lives Matter had dismantled. Similarly, the economic successes achieved in Black communities by the current administration are suppressed and drowned out by systematic left-wing propaganda. Unfortunately, real progress and real answers are not enough. The good news must be aggressively communicated inside Black communities. Prodigiously funded left-wing propaganda into Black communities must be addressed. Star Parker is an author and president of the Center for Urban Renewal and Education. Contact her at www.urbancure.org. Love 1 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA), the national trade association for the entire OOH and DOOH media ecosystem, today announced that Christina Radigan is being appointed Chief Marketing Officer, reporting to OAAA President and CEO Anna Bager. Starting the role later this month, Radigan will oversee all marketing strategies and platforms across the trade organization to increase engagement and membership on the national and local levels. She will also be charged with developing initiatives that advance industry standards and heighten buy-side interest in OOH opportunities. She takes over the CMO post from Stephen Freitas, a 25-year veteran of the trade group, who recently announced his intention to retire at the end of 2020. Freitas is assisting during the transition, currently acting as the OAAA's Executive Vice President of Industry Initiatives. Radigan joins the trade association from Outdoor Media Group, a strategic business unit of Omnicom Media Group, where she most recently served as Managing Director of Marketing and Communications, leading the agency's marketing efforts and industry presence. In that role, she connected research data with strategy to ensure that OOH media and activations were successfully integrated into brand client omnichannel planning. Radigan also established Omnicom's Programmatic DOOH (pDOOH) practice, aligning the expertise of OOH planners and programmatic traders to fuel better client returnsdeepening their faith in DOOH investments, alongside traditional OOH buys. "We are thrilled to welcome Christina Radigan to the OAAA. Her 20-plus years in leading agency efforts to help brands with out of home will be tremendously valuable," said Anna Bager, President and CEO, OAAA. "Christina is a real champion for the medium and has longstanding relationships across the industry. Not only has she served on key committees for OAAA, but she's also worked similarly with the 4A's, Geopath, and the MRC's Digital Place-based working committee. When looking for the right candidate for this CMO post, it became clear that her deep knowledge, passion, and expertise were unmatched." "The OAAA is a powerhouse in the industry, coalescing the needs of different stakeholders, whether focused on traditional OOH or digital innovations," said Radigan. "I look forward to focusing my two decades of experience in the OOH arena on the trade group's mission, with the goal of strengthening relationships between the buy- and sell-sides to increase growth across the sector." From 2010 to 2016, Radigan was Director of Marketing and Communications at Omnicom's OOH Strategic Business Unit, enhancing internal and external communications, while establishing OMG as the cinema buying arm of Omnicom. Prior, she worked in various marcom and account roles within the agency's outdoor divisions. Radigan graduated with a B.S. in Communications from Towson University in Maryland. About the OAAA The Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA) is the national trade association for the $8.6 billion US out of home advertising (OOH) industry, which includes digital out of home (DOOH), and is comprised of billboards, street furniture, transit advertising, and place-based media (including cinema). Comprised of 800+ member media companies, advertisers, agencies, ad-tech providers, and suppliers that represent over 90 percent of the industry. OAAA is a unified voice, an authoritative thought leader, and a passionate advocate that protects, unites, and advances OOH advertising in the United States. OAAA-member media companies donate over $500 million in public service advertising annually. Every year, the industry celebrates and rewards OOH creativity via its renowned OBIE Awards (obieawards.org). For more information, please visit oaaa.org. SOURCE Out of Home Advertising Association Related Links https://oaaa.org/default.aspx Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 03:51:55|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CAIRO, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry received on Sunday a phone call from UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen, during which they discussed the developments of the Syrian crisis, said the Egyptian Foreign Ministry. "The call touched on ways to advance the political settlement of the Syrian crisis," said Egyptian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ahmed Hafez in a statement. "Shoukry stressed Egypt's position in support of resolving the Syrian crisis in a way that preserves the unity of Syria and the independence of its national decision," Hafez added, noting that Shoukry highlighted Cairo's communication with moderate Syrian opposition in a bid to end the conflict. Egypt also underscored the necessity of confronting terrorist and extremist groups in Syria as well as their regional supporters, according to the statement. For his part, the UN envoy updated the Egyptian minister with his recent communications with different parties of the Syrian conflict, expressing keenness on continuous coordination with Egypt in this regard. Shoukry and Pedersen expressed their hope for a progress of the political process in Syria and the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2254 that seeks a political settlement for the Syrian crisis. Enditem Backing his partys senior leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said that the attack on the former in Hathras shows defeat and disgrace of the Uttar Pradesh government. Sanjay ji has been speaking fearlessly against the injustice and atrocities of UP government. They made 14 FIRs on you, sealed the office but did not dare to arrest you, then attacked them today. This shows the defeat and disgrace of the people sitting in the UP government. It means youre on the right track, Kejriwal wrote in a tweet shortly after ink was thrown on Singh during his visit to Hathras. One person, Deepak Sharma, has been identified as the attacker and a probe has been initiated. Singh was speaking to the media after meeting the family members of the 19-year-old Dalit gang-rape victim who succumbed to her injuries last week. The AAP leaders is among the Opposition leaders who have paid a visit to the aggrieved family. It was announced today that Moz has established a Customer Success team in Cork. The team is working out of the Glandore Office which overlooks the River Lee. Moz will create up to 10 jobs initially for customer support executives and account managers to support its continued expansion into the European market. The company provides a variety of search engine optimization (SEO) tools through its software products, online educational content and the Moz community. Moz helps its clients to improve ranking, drive search traffic and ultimately increase awareness of their business. The company is working with CPL, a recruitment firm in Cork, and has begun recruiting key team members remotely during COVID-19 including its new Cork Lead, Kerry Duggan. Moz continues to grow its customer base around the world and we were ready to put boots on the ground in Europe to expand our 24/7 support for customers, said Sarah Bird, CEO of Moz. After visiting Ireland and seeing the business community in Cork first-hand, it was an easy choice to invest in setting up our operations there. Source: www.businessworld.ie Americans Harvey Alter and Charles Rice together with Briton Michael Houghton have been awarded the Nobel Medicine Prize on Monday for their discovery of the Hepatitis C virus. The trio were honoured for their "decisive contribution to the fight against blood-borne hepatitis, a major global health problem that causes cirrhosis and liver cancer in people around the world," the Nobel jury said. Thanks to their discovery, highly sensitive blood tests for the virus are now available and these have "essentially eliminated post-transfusion hepatitis in many parts of the world, greatly improving global health", the Nobel committee said. Their discovery also allowed the rapid development of antiviral drugs directed at hepatitis C. "For the first time in history, the disease can now be cured, raising hopes of eradicating Hepatitis C virus from the world population," the jury said. The award for work on a virus comes as the world battles the new coronavirus pandemic. The researchers will share the Nobel prize sum of 10 million Swedish kronor (about 950,000 euros). They would normally receive their prize from King Carl XVI Gustaf at a formal ceremony in Stockholm on 10 December, the anniversary of the 1896 death of scientist Alfred Nobel who created the prizes in his last will and testament. TV ceremony But the in-person ceremony has been cancelled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, replaced with a televised ceremony showing the laureates receiving their awards in their home countries. Last year, the honour went to US researchers William Kaelin and Gregg Semenza and Britain's Peter Ratcliffe on for discoveries on how cells sense and adapt to oxygen availability. The winners of this year's physics prize will be revealed on Tuesday, followed by the chemistry Prize on Wednesday. The literature prize will be announced on Thursday and the peace prize on Friday, with speculation that Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg and other climate activists or press freedom groups could get the nod for the latter. The economics prize will wrap up the Nobel prize season on Monday 12 October. (with AFP) A former Amazon employee fired by the company has been arrested and charged after he allegedly issued false refunds. According to a criminal complaint filed in an Arizona district court, Vu Anh Nguyen used his access to Amazon's systems to issue more than $96,000 in refunds to himself and others. The complaint said the activity took place between November 2019 and February 2020. The Justice Department brought charges of federal wire fraud and aggravated identity theft against Nguyen on Friday, said Amazon in a statement. An Amazon sign. Amazon said Nguyen was reported to authorities in July after its systems identified the suspicious refunds and completed an investigation. "There is no place for misconduct or fraud at Amazon," said the company in a statement. "We hold our employees to a high bar, have systems in place to proactively prevent fraud, continue to monitor activity, and will pursue all measures to protect our store and hold bad actors accountable." Nguyen was previously employed with Amazon as a Selling Support Associate based in Tempe, Arizona. Blink now: Increased screen time during the pandemic sends more people to the eye doctor Google Nest Audio: New speaker packs a huge punch for $99 Follow Brett Molina on Twitter: @brettmolina23. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fired Amazon worker arrested for allegedly issuing false refunds For New Orleans artist Mary Jane Parker, theres something soothing about drawing. I think its a little bit like meditation or mindfulness in a way, she said. Ive realized when Ive gone through any kind of long stretches of not making work, when I finally put my hand on a piece of chalk or a brush or a pencil or something like that, theres something in me that just becomes quiet. While Parker creates artwork in multiple media mostly encaustic paintings, along with mixed media, bronze sculptures and archival pigment prints, Drawing is the foundation that all of my work is built on, she said in a statement for A Partial View, an exhibition of her work opening Oct. 10 at the St. Tammany Art Association. The opening will be part of Fall for Art, an annual celebration of the arts presented by STAA. This years event presented on a smaller scale because of COVID-19 crowd restrictions will include more than a dozen downtown Covington galleries, shops and restaurants showcasing artists. A native New Orleanian, Parkers path to becoming an artist began in high school. Thats when I became fairly serious about it, she said, earning a Bachelor of Fine Art degree from LSU and a Master of Fine Art degree, with an emphasis in printmaking, from Illinois State University. Parker has exhibited her artwork nationally and internationally with acclaim, having received two Louisiana Division of the Arts Individual Artist Fellowships and a National Endowment for the Arts/Southern Arts Federation Award for Excellence in Works on Paper. Additional fellowships allowed her to travel along the pilgrimage route in France and Spain and study color woodcut in Florence, Italy. Parker is represented by Arthur Roger Gallery and has shown at the New Orleans Museum of Art and the Contemporary Arts Center. When not creating her own artwork, she serves as the chairwoman of the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts visual arts department and is a member of NOCCAs teaching faculty. While A Partial View will include some of Parkers glasswork featuring figurative elements, most of the approximately 28 pieces will be Parkers drawings. She often uses graphite to create elaborate details. On display will be pieces from the Vocabulary Series, a body of work based on Parkers interest in hysteria. Women in the early 1900s often were diagnosed with the disease. St. Tammany top stories in your inbox A weekly guide to the biggest news in St. Tammany. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up There are many theories about exactly what hysteria was and why it predominantly afflicted women. The aspect of the disease that has most fascinated me, however, is how the medical professionals used it to restrict women who did not follow the rules and expectations of society, Parker said in the shows statement. Parkers interest in the subject began with an anthology of literature based on the concepts of hysteria, and it had a lot of historical information in it, she said, adding that the book also contained drawings by Dr. Jean-Martin Charcot, a mentor to Dr. Sigmund Freud. He would go at night and watch the hysterical women in the hospital in Paris and would draw them as they woke up and had their sort of seizures. He created a chart with all the drawings on it, Parker said, adding that his chart inspired Sky Charts, an installation at the Contemporary Arts Center, and Skywatching, an exhibition at Arthur Roger Gallery. The Vocabulary Series features small pieces where Parker has intricately drawn patterns to suggest wallpaper, embroidery or domestic crafts. Against these lovely, quiet backgrounds, I juxtapose a figure or part of the body in a tense or distressed pose with hair in disarray or toes flexed. "One important aspect of the work is the obsessive nature of the act of drawing, using a 2B pencil to describe every detail. The tedious act of drawing in this way mimics the restrictive time spent on domestic crafts in the 1800s, she said on her website, http://maryjaneparkerart.com. For the most part, Parker drew the series on Yupo, an erasable, nonporous paper made from polypropylene. It was originally made for watercolor paintings. I just started playing with pencils just mechanical pencils, really drawing on it, Parker said, comparing the paper with the lithographic stones she used to draw on during her printmaking days. What I love about it I use the translucent one is it looks a little bit like skin, Parker said. It has this really lovely kind of velum quality about it, but its got a little bit more depth to it. Its really lovely to draw on as far as graphite goes. The Pound Sterling to South African Rand (GBP/ZAR) exchange rate struggled to gain any traction on Monday in spite of a positive revision to the finalised UK services PMI. While the headline PMI improved from an initial reading of 55.1 to 56.1 this still limited the appeal of the Pound at the start of the week. Although the reading showed solid growth within the sector it still represented a modest slowdown on Augusts figure, suggesting that the UK economy is losing some of its initial recovery momentum. Investors were also deterred by the revelation that the sector had experienced a seventh consecutive month of job losses, compounding wider fears over the health of the UK labour market. With the end of the governments furlough scheme looking set to exacerbate the issue this month the mood towards the Pound naturally soured. Improved Market Sentiment Shores up South African Rand A general improvement in market risk appetite offered a boost to the South African Rand, meanwhile, as market anxiety over Donald Trumps Covid-19 diagnosis faded. With investors in a more risk-positive mood the Rand found renewed strength against its rivals, trending higher against some of the majors at the start of the week. Even so, underlying signs from the South African economy remain underwhelming, with Septembers Standard Bank PMI remaining trapped in contraction territory. Even though the index showed some improvement on the month, picking up from 45.3 to 49.4, this still suggests that the economy remained under pressure at the end of the third quarter. Any renewed bout of safe-haven demand could see ZAR exchange rates weaken this week, meanwhile. As long as worries over the health of the global economic recovery and the prospect of further Covid-19 disruption remain the South African Rand could struggle to hold onto its gains. Signs of Slowing UK Construction Sector May Dent GBP/ZAR Exchange Rate The release of Septembers UK construction PMI may prompt some volatility for the GBP/ZAR exchange rate on Tuesday, on the other hand. With the index looking set to show a slight loss of momentum on the month this could stoke fresh anxiety over the resilience of the UK economy. Although the construction sector only accounts for a limited fraction of the UK gross domestic product a weak showing here could still weigh on the Pound. Growing anticipation ahead of Fridays raft of UK trade and growth data may also put pressure on the GBP/ZAR exchange rate this week, with investors wary of the potential for a fresh disappointment. Jordans prime minister has resigned but will remain in office as caretaker until a new government is formed. The expected change comes at a time of voter apathy ahead of new elections, economic struggle and rapidly mounting COVID-19 cases. King Abdullah II accepted Prime Minister Omar Razzaz and his Cabinets resignation on Saturday. The king also instructed Razzaz and the Cabinet to remain in office until a new government is formed, the state-run Jordan Times reported. The governments term was scheduled to end this year, and new elections will be held Nov. 10. The king will next appoint a new government to oversee the vote. The king of Jordan has extensive powers in the country. These include naming the prime minister, who is head of government. The election will decide members of Jordans House of Representatives. The elections and pending government formation are happening at a time of economic, political and virus-related strife in the Hashemite Kingdom. Unemployment shot up to 23% in September the highest ever recorded. A majority of Jordanians plan to boycott the upcoming election. The government has also used defense laws initially invoked to combat the virus to stifle dissent, which has prompted outrage. After months of relatively low figures, COVID-19 cases are skyrocketing in the country. The state-run Al-Mamlaka news outlet reported 1,824 new coronavirus infections on Monday. In September, the government introduced new measures to fight the virus resurgence, including prison terms for people holding large gatherings. On Monday, Jordans health minister blamed a lack of compliance with health guidelines for the countrys outbreak. Leaders of Rheinland-Pfalz and Luxembourg want to work more closely together on cross-border emergency rescue. The Rheinland-Pfalz Minister-President Malu Dreyer (SPD) and Luxembourg's Prime Minister Xavier Bettel signed an agreement in Mertert on Monday, the Ministry of the Interior announced. The main aim of the agreement is to "ensure the rapid, effective, and efficient intervention of cross-border emergency rescue services in the event of disasters or serious accidents". Until this new agreement was reached, there was only a rough framework drawn up between Luxembourg and Germany on civil security, which dates back to 1978. The current agreement is a step towards a legal framework to establish a concrete cooperative plan between Luxembourg and the federal state of Rheinland-Pfalz in the event of emergency situations. Anderson, K. and S. Nelgen (2020) Which Winegrape Varieties are Grown Where? A Global Empirical Picture (revised edition). University of Adelaide Press: Adelaide. We have all become aware of the changes that have been occurring within viticulture over the past few years. Grape-growing has a long tradition in many regions, often relatively unchanged over extended periods of time. However, this is now changing rapidly, in response to an obviously altered climate this century. This topic should provide the impetus for a few blog posts.However, to get started, we might consider where various wine-grape varieties are grown now, before we consider any of the changes I also had a bit of a look at this topic back in March ( Which countries are similar to each other, in terms of their grape varieties? ). The information for this new post comes from Table 100 of: What we have here is a compilation of the estimated growing areas in the year 2016 for 300 wine-grape varieties in 50 countries. Note that China is reportedly the world's biggest grape producer, but only 11% of these grapes are used to make wine (the rest are table grapes, including raisins). Here, the focus is on wine grapes only. This is obviously rather complicated information (300 varieties x 50 countries), and so we need some summary images, in order to grasp the overall picture. We could start, for example, by comparing the so-called New World with the Old one. Modern viticulture proliferated in south and central Europe (the Old World) and spread from there with various colonial invasions of the other continents (the New World, although obviously the native peoples did not see it that way), principally North and South America, and Australasia, but also bits of Africa and Asia. The following graph provides a summary of the growing area summed over the various countries of the Old World (horizontally) and the New World (vertically) for each grape variety (represented by the points). The top 12 most abundant varieties globally are highlighted in pink, and are named, except for Sangiovese (where I couldn't fit the label in), and with Cot (aka Malbec) added. The dashed line indicates equal vineyard areas in the New and Old Worlds. Note that the New World areas of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cot (Malbec) greatly exceed those of the Old World, while for Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc they are about equal. For the other major varieties, the Old World areas exceed those of the New.Cabernet Sauvignon is widespread throughout the both the New and Old Worlds, while Cot (Malbec) is mostly grown in Argentina. Syrah (aka Shiraz) is becoming more widespread in the New World, being a good candidate for many areas where the climate is becoming drier it might soon reach equality between Old and New. Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are also widespread, although the latter is particularly popular in New Zealand.Merlot has never been as popular in the New World as it is in the Old Cabernet was chosen to emulate the Bordeaux wines, but not Merlot. The other popular grapes from the Old World have not yet caught on elsewhere Tempranillo and Airen from Spain, Garnacha Tinta (aka Grenache) from Spain and France, Trebbiano Toscano from France and Italy, and Sangiovese from Italy. Pinot Noir and Riesling have always been a bit specialist, even in the Old World, as they require careful handling in suitable sites, in order to produce good wines.We can now proceed to an overall picture of the varietal makeup of the the different countries, using a more complex illustration. I have previously explained the use of networks, to display complex relationships ( Summarizing multi-dimensional wine data as graphs, Part 2: networks ). We cannot just lump countries together into simple groups, because they each have their own particular make-up.To produce the network, I first calculated the percent of each grape variety as a component of the viticultural area in each country, and then calculated the similarity among pairs of countries using the Bray-Curtis measure. The latter is important because it ignores varieties that do not occur in either of the two countries being compared (otherwise, two countries would be similar because of all of the varieties neither one has). Finally, I used the similarities to calculate a NeighborNet network, as shown next (click to enlarge). Countries that are closely connected in the network (along the edges) are more similar to each other, in terms of their grape varietal composition, than they are to countries further away. Note, first, that all of the countries have a lot of uniqueness the terminal edges leading to each country are much longer than are the complex of connecting edges in the middle of the network. For example, Portugal has obvious similarities to Spain, as they share 43 of the 300 listed varieties; but Spain has 42 other varieties that Portugal does not have, while Portugal has 25 that Spain does not the differences between the two countries exceed the similarities. Moreover, countries like Greece, Cyprus and Ethiopia are very distinct. Indeed, they are each dominated by a single variety that is found in few other places. Second, none of the countries form clear groups that are separate from other groups, except for Morocco + Tunisia, which are almost identical, sharing all 15 of their grape varieties. There are, however, quite a few neighborhoods, where countries form close connections, but these neighborhoods connect in complex ways to the other neighborhoods. Some of these neighborhoods are geographical, but others are not. Notably, if we look at the countries of South America, we can see that they are very different in terms of grape varietal composition clockwise from the top: Brazil, Peru, Uruguay, Chile, Argentina; even Mexico is different. New World vineyards are certainly not all the same! Perhaps the most obvious country collection is Austria + Slovakia + Czechia, all of them having a lot of Gruner Veltliner and Grasevina, along with some Sankt Laurent (which variety occurs almost nowhere else). These countries are also somewhat similar to Germany + Luxembourg, all five of them having a lot of Riesling and Muller-Thurgau. Georgia + Kazakhstan form an obvious pair, both being dominated by the Rkatsiteli grape. Likewise, Ukraine + Russia are similar (dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, Aligote, and Rkatsiteli), along with Moldova (which also has a lot of Merlot, plus the Moldova grape), and also with some similarity to Romania (which has large areas of Feteasca Alba and Feteasca Regala instead of Rkatsiteli). Japan has obvious similarities to South Korea (based on Kyoho, and Muscat Bailey A). However, in all of these cases the differences are still bigger than the similarities. It will come as no surprise to you that the vineyards of United States and Australia are similar, being dominated by, in particular, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay; however, they actually share 58 varieties, although they do occur in very difference abundances (Australia has another 34 non-shared varieties, and the US has 15). On the other hand, it may surprise you that the countries with the most similar grape make-up to New Zealand are Myanmar and India. New Zealand differs from almost all other countries by being so heavily dominated by Sauvignon Blanc, comprising 58% of its vineyard area. Well, Myanmar has only 70 ha of vines, but 31% of these are Sauvignon Blanc; and India has c. 2,700 ha, with Sauvignon Blanc at 19%. Now you know! Conclusion The global vineyard is changing, as it always has done. New varieties have arisen in particular places, and become established as a valued part of the environment. This has progressively made old-established vineyards different from each other. As people have moved, they have taken their favorite vines with them. Some of these varieties have become popular in their new homes, but each home has been somewhat different. This also makes economic sense, of course, since there is little reason for competing head-to-head in a global marketplace, Future changes will be driven by these same impetuses. BJP MPs and partys leaders in Maharashtra have demanded that the ban on onion export be lifted, Union mnister of State for Electronics and IT Sanjay Dhotre said here on Monday. In Maharashtra, all our party leaders and all our party MPs have demanded that the (onion) export ban be lifted, the BJP leader told reporters here. Our government will surely think over this (demand), Dhotre said. The central government had last month announced the ban on the export of all varieties of onions with immediate effect, a move aimed at increasing availability and checking price of the commodity in the domestic market. The export of all varieties of onions... is prohibited with immediate effect, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) had said in a notification. The DGFT, an arm of the commerce ministry, deals with exports and imports-related issues. The Maharashtra State Onion Growers Association (MSGAA) has demanded immediate resumption of exports. Before the ban was announced, prices of the kitchen bulb in Lasalgaon, the countrys biggest onion market in Maharashtra, had doubled to Rs 3,000 per quintal since March. Such restrictions should not be imposed as it is important to have consistency in the import-export agreement, Dhotre said, addressing media on the recently-passed farm bills. The farm bills are a historic step taken by the Narendra Modi government for the prosperity of farmers, the minister said. The Modi government aims to empower and protect farmers and to ensure fair prices by increasing agricultural production and income, he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The island city of Alameda is proving that no city is an island when it comes to the Bay Areas fierce growth and housing development battles. The East Bay city population 78,000 is embroiled in a full-throttle ballot measure fight over whether to repeal a 47-year-old City Charter amendment that restricts multifamily development. A ballot measure, Measure Z, would open up more of the city to multifamily buildings, adding density and foot-traffic near shopping and public transit. The fight has turned Alamedas front lawns into a thicket of competing signs and raised questions about which side best reflects the character and values of a city that has seen the cost of housing soar as more and more families are attracted to its bay views, kid-friendly vibe, walkable shopping districts, and rows of Victorians and Craftsman houses. Proponents of Measure Z argue that the restrictive 1973 law passed as Measure A and codified into law as Article 26 is exclusionary zoning aimed at preserving the largely white suburban fabric of the city by restricting apartments that would have made it possible for Alameda to become more racially and economically diverse. The measure trampled our capacity to make housing more affordable, accessible and inclusive, proponents of Measure Z state. Opponents say that the Charter amendment a response to the demolition of historic Victorian homes in the Bronze Coast neighborhood as well as towers proposed for Bay Farm Island during the late 1960s and early 1970s has preserved the soul of the family-oriented city, preventing it from becoming a collection of waterfront high-rises. We have been talking about Article 26 since it passed 47 years ago, said Zac Bowling, a homeowner and campaign organizer for Yes on Z. Its been the third rail of Alameda politics for a long time. Initially the law prohibited all construction of multifamily housing, but it was amended in 1992 to allow some multiunit construction as long as it was limited to a maximum of 21 units per acre. Finally in 2012 the city, under pressure to meet state housing production requirements, passed additional zoning allowing some higher density on parcels of more than 10,000 square feet. While the workarounds have allowed the city to add density in select places a 1,200-unit project is under construction at Alameda Point, formerly a Navy air station the restrictions still make it impossible to add apartments around the city center, according to the two elected officials co-sponsoring Measure Z, Alameda Mayor Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft and Vice Mayor John Knox White. Lea Suzuki / The Chronicle Ashcraft, a former planning commissioner, said developers time and again approach the city to build on vacant lots, but the density limitations make development unfeasible. One property owner wanted to build housing over a CVS pharmacy, but the 10 units he would be permitted to build were not enough to pay for the project. Another property owner had been trying to build on a center city lot at Taylor and Webster streets, but the zoning restrictions killed it. Voters have an opportunity to correct a 47-year-old mistake, Ashcraft said. What we are leaving on the table, what is going unbuilt, is smaller residential developments in our commercial transit corridors. Opponents of Measure Z say the city has found a way to add density, including affordable housing in places, that preserves the citys character and doesnt overwhelm its infrastructure. The city has more than 4,000 units in its pipeline, most of it at three large waterfront projects. Lea Suzuki / The Chronicle City Councilman Tony Daysog, the one member of the council who voted against putting Measure Z on the ballot, said the argument that Measure A has stymied diversity is not reflected in reality. The city was over 90% white in 1973, and today it is 50% white, 31% Asian, 11% Latino and 6% African American, according to U.S. census figures. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. Our side believes that by keeping Article 26 growth will happen, but it will happen on our terms at a moderate pace, said Daysog. Without it growth is going to happen on terms set by the developers. Opponents also argue Alameda needs to be more careful about growth because it is an island with just five ways to get in or out. Daysog pointed to a proposed eight-story complex that would add 1,200 apartments near the Alameda South Shore Center, a mall. That is the poster child of the type of runaway growth we want to stop, he said. We are not San Francisco. While proponents of Measure Z say they are not interested in losing any existing historic buildings, some opponents still worry that could occur. Joyce Boyd, who lives in a three-unit Victorian she restored 19 years ago, called Article 26 a firewall against speculators and unlimited development. She also said that getting rid of it is unlikely to produce any more affordable housing or solve income inequality issues. But Measure Z supporters say the lack of new housing supply has forced out residents. Bowling said he was priced out of town for a while before he was able to buy a home a few years ago. But he worries his mother, who is a renter, will be squeezed out by rent increases. Its very sad everybody in Alameda has friends who have had to pack up and move away because of the costs, Ashcraft said. We havent kept up. Its taken its toll. We need to be building more multiple dwelling unit projects. J.K. Dineen is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jdineen@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @sfjkdineen By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 09/27/2020 ADVERTISEMENT [ Spoilers Warning: This report features spoilers revealing if Karine and Paul are still together or if the : Happily Ever After? couple has split and ended their marriage.] ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Did Karine and Paul's relationship strengthen during their trip to Brazil or did their situation get worse? ADVERTISEMENT So did Karine and Paul work things out or did the couple break up? ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Karine accused Paul of some shocking allegations in a protective order she filed ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Paul totally denied Karine's jaw-dropping accusations of assault and abuse ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. couple Paul Staehle and Karine Martins ' marriage appears to be hanging by a threat on Season 5 of : Happily Ever After?, so did Karine end her relationship with Paul and move back to Brazil or is the couple still together?Paul, a 35-year-old from Louisville, KY, and Karine, a 23-year-old from Tonantins, Brazil, first appeared on Seasons 1 and 2 of : Before the 90 Days. They subsequently appeared on Season 1 of : The Other Way.Paul and Karine met on a dating app and talked for over a year, despite there being a language barrier, before Paul decided to fly to Brazil and meet Karine in-person for the first time to see whether they had the potential to be in a loving relationship.Although Paul and Karine had many cultural differences and struggled to hold a conversation, they fell in love and got married in 2017.After Karine suffered through multiple devastating miscarriages, she and Paul announced they had their first child on the way in October 2018. By the end of that month, Paul revealed Karine is pregnant with a baby boy.Paul and Karine hoped the pregnancy would bring them closer together, but Karine threatened to file for divorce shortly before the couple's son Pierre was born on March 22, 2019.Karine complained she and Paul were fighting all the time, and she hated when Paul accused her of talking to other men. She didn't feel trusted or supported.: The Other Way's first season even showed Karine and her mother leaving Paul behind in Tonantins and traveling to Manaus via boat to file for divorce.However, Karine went into labor shortly afterwards and Paul rushed to be by her side in the hospital. Since Paul proved he could be a good partner in that moment, Karine took him back and was optimistic their romance could improve.Paul and Karine had been married for two years by the time Season 5 of : Happily Ever After? filmed. The couple had been in Brazil for over a year but Paul said they were "barely getting by" financially.Paul and Karine therefore planned to move to the United States so Paul could get a job and make more money. He wanted to give his wife and son a better life and be a provider."It took a lot, but I was able to sponsor Karine on a CR-1 visa, which is a spousal visa and allows Karine to apply and get a two-year Green Card before she even enters America," Paul told the cameras."She already has her Green Card approved; she is a complete permanent resident."Karine, however, was heartbroken about having to leave her family behind. She was also upset to learn Paul's mother Mary didn't want to help them out or give them any money.Mary wanted to see Paul stand on his own two feet and be a man.Once the couple landed in the United States, Paul found a one-bedroom "studio" for his family to move into. The place appeared to be a renovated shed with a little front porch, but Paul cleaned it up nicely and Karine actually liked it."Paul is really trying to make me happy. This house is the first step for me to feel comfortable here in the U.S. And right now, it makes me happy," Karine noted.But the joy Karine felt quickly faded because Paul couldn't find a job thanks to having an arson felony on his record."I wouldn't want to be with somebody who is kind of like a deadbeat," Mary admitted to her son.After one month of being in America, Karine was having trouble adjusting to her new life in America, but Paul begged her to be patient with him and give it some time."I'll give you two months to find a job. Otherwise, I'll pick up Pierre and we'll leave for Brazil," Karine told her husband in an ultimatum.Paul said Karine's threat broke his heart and so he wasn't going to allow himself to fail.As time passed, Paul said Karine was having "a lot of mood swings" and would even lock herself into a room for like five or six hours at a time."I just want to find out what I can do to make things better," Paul explained. "I am emotionally exhausted. It's one thing after the next, and it's really difficult."Paul acknowledged this was "the worst" he had ever seen Karine and he worried she'd just hop on a plane back to Brazil without him.Karine then met with an immigration attorney by herself in order to find out her options and rights in terms of traveling to Brazil alone with her son."I have to choose between my husband and my family," Karine said. "So I don't know what I'm going to do... But I need somebody to help me. I am desperate."The lawyer, Rania Attum, had a Portuguese translator, so Karine was glad she wouldn't need Paul to translate for her.Rania admitted Karine's situation was complicated but Karine had every right to take her baby and go to Brazil. Rania, however, couldn't promise there wouldn't be any consequences or resistance if Paul didn't agree with her decision to leave America.Karine learned Paul could try to stop her at the airport or put her through court proceedings. Rania therefore asked Karine to really think this one through in order to not make a big mistake."I will never stop Paul from seeing Pierre. But it's a delicate issue. I see that too many fights is not good for me. It's not good for Paul and it's definitely not good for Pierre. I just want the best for Pierre, and if that means going back to Brazil, that's what I'm going to do," Karine explained.Paul was furious when he found out Karine had consulted with a lawyer behind his back.Paul reminded Karine that he has "50 percent rights to the child" and would fight this. Karine, totally overwhelmed by Paul's outburst, replied, "F-ck you!"Karine attempted to end the conversation before it got worse, but Paul said, "I will prosecute. In Brazil and America, you can't keep the child from me."Karine cried, saying Paul didn't know when to stop and he had upset her.Paul apologized and admitted he had taken things "too far." He realized Karine needed a trip back to Brazil or else she'd probably leave him.Once Paul's two months to find a job were up, it seemed like nothing would convince Karine to stay in the United States.Paul felt disappointed in himself for not being able to support his family, so he suggested they could compromise and all go back to Brazil together.Paul said they had enough money to fly to Brazil as a family, and Karine gushed, "I am happy. I'm excited.""Giving up and going back to Brazil was not my plan. I wanted to live here [in America] and make a better life for everybody. I did everything I could and I couldn't make ends meet," Paul told the cameras."I couldn't make it work. I feel like I failed my family. We're going back temporarily, but I'm definitely concerned that once we're in Brazil, Karine is never going to want to come back."Paul and Karine were then shown traveling back to Brazil on : Happily Ever After?, but he hoped Karine wouldn't give up on America forever.Karine said she was very excited to see her family and grandfather, but Paul called leaving America "bittersweet." He didn't want to stay in Brazil permanently and feared Karine would feel otherwise.Karine said her relationship with Paul was under a lot of pressure in the United States and so a trip to Brazil would be good for their relationship. Karine said she would "think" about returning to America after spending some time in Brazil.Paul and Karine had an emotional goodbye with Paul's mother, who also worried her son and grandchild might never return.According to Paul, Karine threatened him with divorce both in early September 2019 and again only weeks later.Paul claimed Karine was angry with his mother for spoiling their son in Fall 2019 and then told Paul later that month she didn't want him in her life anymore."Karine asked me to remove our photos. And let everyone know that she doesn't want me in her life," Paul wrote in a since-deleted Facebook posting from September 27, according to screenshots captured by his followers.Paul then also wrote a subsequent posting in a mix of Portuguese and English. When translated, the text states, "Karine's divorce lawyer called me. Guess I need a lawyer."Shortly afterward, Paul deleted the second posting as well and then removed most photos of Karine from his page.The couple appeared to be at peace for another month or so, and they celebrated their second wedding anniversary in early November 2019.But later that month, the pair openly discussed filing for divorce, once again.Paul claimed Karine had "started divorce proceedings in Manaus," and Karine told Us Weekly on November 12 that she was "looking for a lawyer.""Over the course of our Christmas dinner Paul and Karine broke up, got back together, broke up, got back together, broke up and this just in -- are back together. Stay tuned for more on this developing story," Instagrammer John Yates posted on December 25.In December 2019, Paul alleged Karine had taken off with their baby and was with a new man named Blake. He also said Karine was demanding a divorce again at the time.But fast-forward to 2020, Paul posted an Instagram video on May 19 of a bike he had purchased and was putting together for Karine.That same month, Paul also took to Instagram to happily announce Karine's pregnancy with Baby No. 2. It appeared Karine was already several months along into her pregnancy at the time.In June 2020, Karine posted a photo of Paul playing with Pierre in late June and captioned it, "Happy Father's Day." She also added a blue heart to her post.Paul and Karine's relationship took a dramatic turn for the worse in July 2020, when Paul lashed out at Karine on Instagram for allegedly calling Paul a "horrible father and husband" and threatening to move their son Pierre back to Brazil.Paul took to Instagram on July 15 with the angry message to Karine and quickly deleted it afterward, but Yates captured a screenshot of the rant and posted it on his own account.Paul blasted Karine in saying, "Yelling at me in public calling me horrible father and husband. We spend every penny we have on bills and designer [clothes] and video games for you. I did not buy anything for myself.""I made sure you and Pierre had everything you all could possibly want and I bought nothing for myself. I try to show my family USA History and I get shunned. Because only your country and culture matter," Paul continued."I take you to the hospital and stay by your side, make sure [you're] at all your doctors appointments and let you spend all your money only on what you want -- but I am a Bad Father and Husband you yell in public... I also never ever cheated on you.""But I understand you want to take Pierre to Tonantins and live because I am such a horrible person," he concluded.The pair appeared to briefly reconcile for about two weeks, but then things changed and Paul and Karine went on to have what appeared to be the worst fight of their relationship On July 30, Paul posted a lengthy Instagram Live video in which he and Karine had both made assault allegations against each other and Karine had called the police on her husband.Paul said he wanted to file for full custody of their son Pierre after Karine allegedly cheated on Paul and violated a Child Protective Services case against her.During the Instagram Live video, an apparent friend of Karine's also told the police Karine wanted to be taken to a "shelter" where someone could "help her."The woman said Karine depended on Paul -- who seemed to be holding Karine's passport and other documents -- for everything, including money, and so Karine basically didn't have a way out.Later that night, at around 4AM, Paul posted another video on his Instagram Stories and seemed to claim the police were called again."I apologize to you guys for earlier. It's been crazy here. I did not get arrested. The cops did come back," Paul said."We had a storm and Karine got on her cell phone and called the police because the WIFI disconnected. She said I was halting her communications... which didn't make any sense to me because she had her phone the whole time and the WIFI just randomly went out.""Sometimes Internet goes out in our houses -- it happens right?! But you're going to call the cops? For that? The cops weren't too happy about it."Paul added it's "been stressful" for the couple and they "need prayers.""I don't want Pierre in dangerous situations," he said. "Pierre has been in a very dangerous situation before and that's why things happened."Paul subsequently made additional Instagram postings, reportedly, in which he claimed Karine had gone "missing" with Pierre while he was in the hospital being treated for a STD. He seemed to blame the alleged STD on Karine for allegedly cheating on him after she arrived in Kentucky."I've never cheated on Karine, ever, but apparently I've tested positive for an STD and they are giving me treatment for me," Paul said in one video.A couple of hours later, Paul then reportedly claimed Karine had filed a "full restraining order" against him and posted photos showing a copy of the order Karine had filed against him."I'm not allowed to be around her or my son, within 500 feet of them at all," he said.Paul subsequently made surprising claims about his estranged wife in his own protective order he had filed against Karine on July 30."I previously found glass in my food," Paul alleged in court documents obtained by Us. "I found similar glass shards from an item she broke."Paul also alleged that Karine's friends were calling him with death threats."[They are] threatening to come to my home and kill me. They requested I pay them $10,000 or I would never see my son again," Paul reportedly claimed, adding that Karine allowed Pierre to "run in the street [and] get into the chemical cabinets.""I fear for my wife's safety and mental well-being. I fear for my son's safety," Paul concluded.A judge therefore reportedly ordered Karine to stop all communication with Paul and stay 500 feet away from him at all times.Karine publicly confirmed in early August 2020 that she had left Paul and obtained an emergency protective order against him.Karine said she wasn't "missing" but needed to be "rescued from an environment" that was no longer healthy for her and her child, adding on Instagram, "Relationships are hard and sometimes it just can't be fixed anymore."Karine's protective order included an array of shocking claims -- including that Paul had physically assaulted her, sexually assaulted her, and prevented her doctor from prescribing contraception to her.In the emergency protection order application Paul had shared on social media, Karine claimed Paul "forcefully rapes me," "hold[s] my Green Card and all my documents," monitors her phone, uses cameras to monitor her on his phone when he is not home, has forced her to drink beer while pregnant, and has forbidden Karine's doctor from prescribing birth control to her."On multiples occasions in the past 3 weeks the respondent pushed me, grab my breast squ[ee]zing and twisting, hurting me, pushing me to the floor, covering my mouth. He force his penis into my mouth and forcefully rapes me. If I refuse he throws things, he yells, or he threat[ens] to call police," Karine wrote in the handwritten two-page application."He currently hold[s] my Green Card and all my documents. I am not allowed to leave the house, he monitor[s] my phone, he [has] cameras around the house and he can see through his phone who arrives and who leaves. He threat[ens] take out son Pierre away if I ever leave. He forced me to drink alcohol by threat[ing] me so I drunk some so he calm down."Karine continued, with the help of a language translator, "He is constantly on social media making videos of me against my will saying I am crazy, saying I have mental illness. Recently he called [Child Protective Services] and told [them] I was always drunk, aggressive, and abusive to him.""He post on social media [that] I have [cheated with] several [men] even knowing that he [has] cameras around the house and I can't leave. I have no access to money for my son or myself.""I went to the doctor to try [and] get contraceptive," she wrote. "In the doctor's office he said 'no' because I would be doing an abortion. The doctor explained the contraceptive was only for preventing [pregnancy] and I would not get pregnant [but] Paul said 'no' and took me home."According to her application, Paul also refused to let her return home to Brazil but she feared she still wouldn't even be safe in her native country."I came to U.S. to visit my in-laws and now he [does] not let me go back. We got married in Brazil, not in U.S.," she wrote. "When I ask to go back to me family he threat[ens] [to] take my son away.""I am terrified he will hurt me or hurt my son because I runned away from him and I am even afraid to go back to Brazil now because He Can go to Brazil and hurt us."Karine ended her application by stating she was also afraid of Paul's mother Mary and wanted no contact with any of his family or friends."I have my family in Brazil but I don't feel that law enforcement will protect me from him there," she wrote. "I am afraid of him and his mother because his mother knows and sees what he does and she refused [to] report her son. I have witnessed him threat[en] and being violent with his own mother.""I do not want any contact with or his mother, his friends or family. I do not want them close, I am afraid of them hurt[ing] my son for revenge.Paul took to his Instagram Stories on August 10, 2020 to shoot down the claims Karine had made in her protective order filing."It truley [sic] breaks my heart it has come to this. I have bent over backwards. I found work. Got a new home. A new car. Let her buy anything she wanted. I did the cooking, cleaning, laundry and took care of Pierre," Paul wrote in his Instagram Stories."I have never in my life physically or sexually assaulted anyone."Paul has claimed for quite some time that Karine has mental health issues, and so he addressed his beliefs in the message to his followers."I have made motions to the court for Karine to get mental help. I have had to double up on my therapy to cope with this madness," Paul wrote."Her motion against me with false allegations is for a 3 year restraining order against me and both my children. Alimony and child support. But I can not see her or my children at all."One day later, Paul vented about how social media has basically ruined his life."I will be deactivating all my social media accounts soon. My social media addiction has caused me nothing but pain. It is time people put their phones and social media down and focus on your loved ones," Paul wrote."Do not allow social media to destroy your relationships and family. I never knew my heart could feel such pain. I always took for granted my son would be around me every day... I never want to date or remarry [or] to ever feel this pain again. To not be a part of your childrens life born and unborn is beyond painful."Paul continued in his Instagram Stories posting, "I regret oversharing private matters on social media and to other people. I regret taking for granted my family would be together for ever and live happily ever after," Paul lamented.Paul advised other men to treat their wives and children well and to "listen, forgive" and "not hold grudges" in relationships."But most of all, keep your marital problems private," Paul concluded."This is a pain no one should have to endure. Not knowing if my children [are] ok. If and when I might see them again. I forgive all those in my life who have ever made false accusations against me."Also in August, Paul posted a photo of little Pierre on Instagram and captioned it, "No Matter Where You Are I Will Always Love & Cherish You."Following a three-week break from social media, Paul took to his Instagram Stories to reveal he was in Brazil and Karine was in Indiana."For everyone thinking I am chasing karine in Brazil. Karine is in Indiana, USA. I came here alone to clean and organize our brazil home. It needs to be sanitary and baby safe," Paul wrote."I have been keeping busy since she left. I finished cleaning and organizing USA house so now I am doing the same thing in Brazil. All my work is on the internet so as long as I have internet I can be anywhere. Even court is on the internet these days."Paul then switched topics from his current location to the fact he's been missing his family."My life revolved around them. I have not seen my son since July. Next court date is now in December. I will not see my sons for a very long time," Paul continued."So I am keeping busy and constructive. Karine is not in Brazil. I knew that when I traveled here. Now my mother is having a mental breakdown because she is also forbidden to see Pierre. I have lost my sons."Paul clearly confirmed Karine is pregnant with another boy because he wrote "sons" multiple times.Paul went on to suggest he's doing everything possible to keep his mind off being alone."I just want to stay busy and be productive. I have to accept the fact I will probably never see my wife and son again . Or see the birth or ever see my unborn child," Paul wrote."That being said, I think I am mentally doing what is best -- staying constructive and busy."Want more spoilers or couples updates? Click here to visit our homepage! Coffee business raises money for local organizations Dutch Bros Coffee and its customers raised $496,900 for organizations that support the communitys youth during its 10th annual Buck for Kids day, which took place Sept. 18. Dutch Bros donated $1 from every drink sold to local organizations handpicked by Dutch Bros crews for their commitment to creating a brighter future for children. Buck for Kids is one of Dutch Bros annual events for giving back to the community. With the help of its customers, the company has raised more than $3 million for youth organizations since the program started in 2011. Local franchisees and operators choose which organizations theyd like to support, ensuring every dollar stays local. Recipients include nonprofit agencies focused on alleviating hunger, preventing child abuse, starting mentorship programs and providing medical treatment for children. More than 400 shops in nine states took part in the giveback, including locations in Benton and Linn counties. Foundation announces scholarship recipients The Corvallis Clinic Foundation recently announced this years recipients of the George W. Knox, M.D., Memorial Scholarship, the Alan Chaimov, M.D., and Anne Chaimov Memorial Scholarship, the James R. Naibert Scholarship and the James A. Riley scholarship. Daniela Durch-Smith, recipient of the Knox scholarship, was accepted to the University of Arizonas nursing program. She is a National Honor Society student and valedictorian of the Corvallis High School Class of 2020. Danielle Karageorge, who received the Chaimov scholarship, plans to study nursing at the Oregon Institute of Technology and eventually transfer to Oregon Health & Science Universitys nursing program. Two students were each awarded the $2,000 Naibert scholarship: Lexi Ismail, a student in the doctor of pharmacy program at Oregon State University, and Delanie Phillips, a student of radiologic science at OIT. Hallie Baker, a senior at OSU majoring in kinesiology, received the $1,000 Riley scholarship. Baker plans to enter a direct-entry masters degree in nursing program to become a nurse practitioner. Corvallis student receives degree Elizabeth Stang of Corvallis graduated with the St. Olaf College Class of 2020. Stang, the daughter of Jack and Bernadette Stang, received a bachelors degree in Norwegian. She is a graduate of Crescent Valley High School in Corvallis. Clubs provide grant to Meals on Wheels The Rotary Club of Corvallis recently partnered with the Greater Corvallis, Philomath, Albany, Greater Albany, and Newport Rotary clubs to obtain a Rotary District Matching Grant. The grant provided $18,525 to the Meals on Wheels program, to help address the surge in demand for assistance resulting from COVID-19 restrictions, which has been accentuated by the fire and smoke emergencies. Meals on Wheels regionally reaches 1,300 older adults and adults with disabilities who arent able to get to grocery stores or otherwise access nutritionally balanced meals. The program reaches 1,300 people and provides 23,000 meals per month, and also allows for a check on the housing, health and other conditions of the recipients. Meals on Wheels is a program of Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments, and serves Linn, Benton and Lincoln counties. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 NEWMARKET, Ontario, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AirBoss of America Corp. (TSX: BOS) (the "Company" or "AirBoss") today announced that AirBoss Defense Group ("ADG") has recently been awarded an additional US$22.0 million in contracts across its survivability portfolio for multiple parties in North America and internationally. ADG, which has been very active in the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, offers domestic and international customers a range of survivability solutions across the CBRN-E spectrum for both first response and military applications, said Chris Bitsakakis, President and Chief Operating Officer of AirBoss. These latest contracts largely reflect the regular contribution from predominantly military and government customers as part of their overall defense and preparedness strategies, independent of their ongoing COVID-19 response. The US$22.0 million in awards include molded glove and overboot awards for the United Arab Emirates valued at $6.4 million, Husky ground penetrating radar and accessory orders for US$5.8 million for the Egyptian military, a Rollover Detection Warning (RDWS) System award from the 2nd Cavalry Regiment (a unit of the U.S. Army Europe) for US$2.1 million, as well as a number of smaller orders from various groups in the U.S., with a focus on chemical and biological personal protective equipment, including mass casualty decontamination shelter systems and various Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) products. Deliveries on these awards are expected to begin in Q4 2020 and span 24 months. These awards are not related to the Husky long-term contract extension announced on September 28 or the US$220 million in contracts announced since March 2020, specifically for FlexAir PAPR systems and related sustainment supplies of consumables to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs (VA), in connection with the ongoing fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. AirBoss successfully completed a US$96 million FEMA contract at the end of July, a US$2.55 million VA contract in August, and has now begun delivering against the previously announced US$121 million award to the HHS, with product shipments expected though the balance of 2020 and into the first quarter of 2021. The Husky is a blast-survivable, mission configurable vehicle platform that deploys a range of radar and sensor systems for countermine and non-conventional explosive detection. To date ADG has deployed more than 1,500 Husky systems globally. ADGs molded gloves and boots are made with an injection-molded advanced specialty polymer and were originally designed and developed to provide superior physical properties and protection compared to chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) products previously in service, and fully integrate with all currently fielded CBRN Suits. These boots and gloves have been broadly adopted worldwide and have been used in more than 40 countries. The RDWS advises the user of impending vehicle rollover conditions based on terrain, operation, and vehicle limitations/parameters. The technology allows vehicle operators to be alerted of dangerous operating conditions in order to adjust as necessary to mitigate the risk. AirBoss of America Corp. AirBoss of America Corp. is a group of complementary businesses supplying custom compounded rubber, survivability solutions and anti-vibration components to a diverse group of customers globally. AirBoss Rubber Solutions is a top-tier North American custom rubber compounder with 450 million turn pounds of annual capacity. AirBoss Defense Group manufactures and supplies a growing array of Chemical, Biological, Radioactive, Nuclear and Explosive ("CBRN-E") protective solutions and is a leading provider of personal protective equipment to governments, militaries and frontline healthcare workers both in the U.S. and internationally. AirBoss Engineered Products is a supplier of innovative anti-vibration solutions to the North American automotive market. The Companys shares trade on the TSX under the symbol BOS. Visit www.airbossofamerica.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 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; dependence on key customers; 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; 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 and potential litigation; ability to obtain financing on acceptable terms; environmental damage and non-compliance with environmental laws and regulations; impact of global health situations; potential product liability and warranty claims and equipment malfunction. COVID-19 could also negatively impact the Companys operations and financial results in future periods. There is increased uncertainty associated with future operating assumptions and expectations as compared to prior periods. As such, it is not possible to estimate the impacts COVID-19 will have on the Companys financial position or results of operations in future periods. While the direct impacts of COVID-19 are not determinable at this time, the Company has an undrawn credit facility as at June 30, 2020 that can provide financing up to $60,000,000. 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 this 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.sedar.com. Good morning. After I wrote about mail-in voting last week, I received a number of great questions from readers who were still flummoxed over the process. After all, voting this year has changed drastically from previous years, partly because of the pandemic and partly because of additional counties participating in the election model laid out by the Voters Choice Act. Here are some of the most common questions asked by readers. Does returning one early mean that it will be counted early? Generally, yes. Early arriving vote-by-mail ballots are typically the first ballots counted, said Chris Miller of the California secretary of states office. Ballots will be processed as they come in. Legislation passed in response to the pandemic allows for mail-in ballots to be processed and counted sooner than in previous years, up to 29 days before the election. HARRISON, N.Y., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Josh Eisen and the Josh Eisen Campaign are rolling out an ambitious plan to engage with voters throughout the district. Dr. Eisen and the Josh Eisen Campaign staff announced that they are opening retail campaign headquarters throughout the district. The Eisen Campaign will invite voters to events at which Dr. Eisen will listen to voters and share his vision for the district. Because of the increased interest in Dr. Eisen's candidacy, the Josh Eisen Campaign says that "Dr. Eisen is available to engage voters directly in meaningful and dynamic ways. The Eisen Campaign attributes the increased interest to what the Eisen Campaign is calling "Dr. Eisen's innovative vision to bring jobs and programs to the district and a desire on the part of voters to learn more about them." The Eisen Campaign announced several events and programming that will take place in October. Covid-19: Vaccines vs. Shots Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited immunologists and epidemiologists to answer voter questions. Dr. Eisen will join them on a panel to discuss the difference between vaccines and shots as well as their relevance to Covid-19. Covid-safe drinks, snacks and childcare will be provided. Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited immunologists and epidemiologists to answer voter questions. Dr. Eisen will join them on a panel to discuss the difference between vaccines and shots as well as their relevance to Covid-19. Covid-safe drinks, snacks and childcare will be provided. An Evening to Network, Covid-Style At these events to be held at all of the Eisen Campaign's headquarters, local small-business owners and freelancers are welcome to meet, mingle and learn. Dr. Eisen will be available to discuss specific business matters as well as general challenges facing the economy in the district where people will benefit from Dr. Eisen's decades of practical business experience and academic training. At these events to be held at all of the Eisen Campaign's headquarters, local small-business owners and freelancers are welcome to meet, mingle and learn. Dr. Eisen will be available to discuss specific business matters as well as general challenges facing the economy in the district where people will benefit from Dr. Eisen's decades of practical business experience and academic training. Sharing Food, Sharing Culture, Covid-Notwithstanding At these events to be held at all of the Eisen Campaign's headquarters, local restaurants, caterers and vendors will share hygienically-served food that reflects the diverse cultures and cuisines in our district and communities. At these events to be held at all of the Eisen Campaign's headquarters, local restaurants, caterers and vendors will share hygienically-served food that reflects the diverse cultures and cuisines in our district and communities. Community, Parenting and Faith Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited parenting experts as well as local faith and community leaders to discuss the challenges of achieving parenting goals when there is a cacophony of ideas competing for our children's attention. Covid-appropriate childcare will be provided. Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited parenting experts as well as local faith and community leaders to discuss the challenges of achieving parenting goals when there is a cacophony of ideas competing for our children's attention. Covid-appropriate childcare will be provided. Strength, Fitness and Covid At these events to be held at the different Eisen Campaign Headquarters, voters will have an opportunity to learn how to stay fit and strong when gyms are closed and winter coming. Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited trainers and fitness experts to make presentations to voters. Trainers, Experts and Dr. Eisen will be available to answer questions. At these events to be held at the different Eisen Campaign Headquarters, voters will have an opportunity to learn how to stay fit and strong when gyms are closed and winter coming. Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited trainers and fitness experts to make presentations to voters. Trainers, Experts and Dr. Eisen will be available to answer questions. Nutrition, Eating and Feeding At these events to be held at locations to be announced by the Eisen Campaign, voters will have a chance to learn about overcoming challenges to healthy and nutritious eating. Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited nutritionists and health experts to address the unique challenges that emerged because of the pandemic. Dr. Eisen and the Experts will be available to engage in dialogue. Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have included pediatric and geriatric experts to address those populations and the caretakers who feed them. At these events to be held at locations to be announced by the Eisen Campaign, voters will have a chance to learn about overcoming challenges to healthy and nutritious eating. Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited nutritionists and health experts to address the unique challenges that emerged because of the pandemic. Dr. Eisen and the Experts will be available to engage in dialogue. Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have included pediatric and geriatric experts to address those populations and the caretakers who feed them. Infrastructure in Westchester / Rockland At these events to take place at Eisen Campaign Headquarters throughout the district, voters have an opportunity to learn about local infrastructure and to share their own ideas. Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited experts to discuss local infrastructure needs. Dr. Eisen and the experts will also be available to answer questions. At these events to take place at Eisen Campaign Headquarters throughout the district, voters have an opportunity to learn about local infrastructure and to share their own ideas. Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited experts to discuss local infrastructure needs. Dr. Eisen and the experts will also be available to answer questions. Awareness and Self-Defense Dr. Eisen and the Eisen Campaign have invited self-defense experts and law enforcement to engage voters about how to remain vigilant and aware. Voters will be able to listen to short presentations and then ask questions. Dr. Eisen will also be available to answer questions regarding any issues. J. Smus, an Eisen Campaign Spokesman, said, "Because of Covid restrictions and space limitations, voters must register in advance, especially if they require childcare." The Eisen Campaign also specifically advised that those seeking childcare should register their children early. The Eisen Campaign noted that all accommodations are on a first-come first-served basis. However, Dr. Eisen stated, "So long as there is interest, we will invite back the experts and caterers and repeat the events." He quipped "this is what leaders do." Media Contact: Josh Smus Phone: +1 (917) 865-7444 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Eisen for Congress, Inc. An unattended, unmuzzled dog is caught in a cage in Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. Photo by VnExpress/Minh Hai. Ba Dinh District in Hanoi has deployed 14 squads to catch stray dogs to prevent the spread of rabies, according to the local veterinary station. The squads, totaling around 100 members and operative in different wards, have been rounding up stray dogs since mid-September as per the Ba Dinh Peoples Committee initiative to create rabies safe zones. Each squad includes militia, police officers, medical personnel and veterinarians, all trained in rabies prevention and animal control. "Our main goal is persuading residents to keep their dogs and cats from roaming unattended to ensure community safety. We dont focus on solely catching dogs to fine people," said a representative of the Ba Dinh veterinary station. So far, five stray dogs have been seized and three pet owners fined VND4.5 million ($194). Captured dogs would be taken to local Peoples Committees. After 48 hours, failing retrieval, they would be handed over to either Hanoi Animal Center or the Vietnam National University of Agriculture. Ba Dinh is the second district in the capital to form dog-catching squads for rabies prevention, Thanh Xuan having already done so since late 2018. A decree, enacted in 2017 and amended in 2020, requires dogs to be muzzled, chained and attended to by their owners in public. Violations attract fines of VND1-2 million. Several cities have since hired animal control personnel, including Hanoi and Saigon. The capital is also gathering opinions on the management of walking streets near the Hoan Kiem Lake and surrounding areas, which includes banning people from either walking their pets on a leash or letting them free. Rabies killed 54 people in Vietnam last year, according to the Ministry of Health. Stewart Mader, NJ Transits first customer advocate and experience officer, who sparked more friction with riders for acting like a public relations officer instead of representing riders, has left the job. The New Jersey Globe first reported Maders departure late Monday, the last chapter in a rocky relationship with the very people he was supposed to represent, rail bus and light rail riders. A memo obtained by NJ Advance Media to board members from Kevin Corbett, NJ Transit CEO said Mader has left employment with NJ Transit as of Friday Oct. 2. The memo did not give a reason for his departure. Accordingly, NJ Transit will take this opportunity to re-examine the position in its entirety, including the qualifications of a replacement candidate as well the positions location in our organizational structure, Corbett said. NJ Transit officials did not respond to emailed questions or comment beyond the memo except to say we thank Mr. Mader for his contributions and wish him all the best as he pursues other opportunities. The job of customer advocate was created by the NJ Transit reform bill, signed into law by Gov. Phil Murphy in December 2018. Mader was hired in April 2019 and hailed as a good fit because of work he did establishing the PATH rail riders council for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. But that success didnt follow him to NJ Transit. Mader came under repeated fire by commuters and a leading legislator for functioning as more of an advocate for NJ Transit than for riders, with tweets and videos that prompted the agencys accomplishments. He drew a $127,000 annual salary. Got the @NJTRANSIT App? Got alerts too? If you're not sure, @StewartMader shows you how, with step-by-step instructions. Take a minute to check, so you're prepared! pic.twitter.com/xwH6CGxHpl NJ TRANSIT (@NJTRANSIT) February 14, 2020 Commuter criticism was especially harsh about Maders videos of himself riding off-peak hour trains and buses with few people aboard, instead of during the heart of the rush hour. Riders complained that Mader should have been answering commuter inquiries during service disruptions and delays instead. Commuter advocates shed no tears about his departure. Good riddance, said David Peter Alan, Lackawanna Commuter Coalition chairman. If someone in management has to settle disputes for customers and come up with things internally to benefit riders, that would be great. We dont have evidence Mr. Mader did that. Alan and advocates from the New Jersey Association of Railroad Passengers publicly objected to Maders customer advocate title, contending he did little in that capacity for riders. While no one wants to see anyone lost their job, the hiring of Stewart Mader was a mistake from day one, said Len Resto, NJ Association of Railroad Passengers president. It took the advocacy community out of the picture by not allowing them to interact with senior NJ Transit management who were and are in the position to do concrete things to improve service. Long standing meetings between NJ Transit management and the advocacy groups have not happened since the Murphy administration took over, Alan said. Mr. Mader was in such a middle management level that he could not advocate for change, Rest said. Hey @NJTRANSIT_NBUS @CommutingLarry @StewartMader ETA for 6:47 160T from Elmwood Park to Port Authority. Bus never showed up and there is no notification on Twitter. Gloria (@t1nkerbell24) February 26, 2020 It wouldnt have been so objectionable if they called him customer experience officerunder no circumstances would I ever consider him a customer advocate, Alan said. One problem was the job description of the position Mader applied for, which was obtained by NJ Advance Media in February was more for a public relations chief than a customer advocate, including functioning as chief spokesman, even though NJ Transit has a robust communications department. NJ Transit officials said the job description was changed. Mader applied for the position on Nov. 19, 2018, a month before Murphy signed NJ Transit reform legislation that created the position. Those revelations brought criticism from Senate Majority Leader Loretta, D-Bergen that Mader hadnt been doing what legislators had in mind when the 2018 NJ Transit reform law was written that created the position. There was more wrong with Mr.Maders job description and reporting requirements than there was with anything else, she said. In June, Weinberg said she was rewriting the job description creating an office of the customer advocate, which answers to NJ Transits board of directors and brings commuter complaints and issue directly to them. The bill also gives the board the power to hire the advocate. Our bill has been introduced and Im hoping to get it passed in the next couple of months. It is now more important than ever, Weinberg said. This is a good chance to give the board the responsibility we intended by letting them interview and eventually hire a real customer advocate. I took the 5:38 because the 5:20 still wasnt there. @StewartMader do you even care that people are suffering on these overcrowded trains? This is dangerous. Every seat taken, aisles all full. Every day. pic.twitter.com/Cf5w68MZME Shannageddon (@shannonpbnj) March 4, 2020 Commuter advocates said that job should not be part of NJ Transit to maintain true independence and objectivity. As long as they are considered employees, their first loyalty must be to the agency, not riders, Alan said. Its like an inspector general. To do that properly, that person would have to report to superiors outside the organization. Resto said it was unlikely an NJ Transit employee, even a customer advocate, would criticize the agency writing his pay check and that arrangement didnt make sense. "Any customer service advocate should be paid by the Legislature and report directly to the NJ Transit Board of Directors, " he said. adding a plug. I would make a great customer service advocate. Ultimately, Maders profile became less public with fewer tweets after the Globe reported he sent an official tweet belittling a Bergen Record reporter for an article. His Twitter presence dwindled during the coronavirus until he made his personal twitter count private this summer. Maders last actions at NJ Transit was a report to the board of directors' customer service and operations committee on Sept. 30. Even that report was criticized by board members in August for focusing only on the agencies positive accomplishments and providing no information about riders complaints and how they were resolved. No manager could be an advocate for customers, Alan said. The customer advocates are the New Jersey Association of Railroad Passengers and the Lackawanna Coalition. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Larry Higgs may be reached at lhiggs@njadvancemedia.com. Populism vs. Elitism By Mark Wegierski It could be argued that liberalism, as a world-historical tendency, almost always begins among elites (who have in essence become corrupted by an easy life without duty and religion), and is imposed by force on a reluctant populace which clings to "the old verities". The triumph of the Conservative Party in Britain after the extension of the franchise to the working-classes in 1870 (in an "aristocratic - worker alliance" consciously promoted by Disraeli), is a good example of "the conservatism of the common person", as against the liberal bourgeoisie. A liberal like John Stuart Mill (who snidely called all Conservatives "the Stupid Party") urged voting weighted according to property precisely because he saw it as a guarantee of liberal ascendancy. Much of the nineteenth-century fear of "mob-rule" was based on a Whiggish-liberal fear of a conservative "mob". And who today, if not common men and women, those with the least formal education and pseudo-psychological training, are those most often revulsed against the sexually, ethnically, and existentially polymorphous society that is being foisted on them by liberal manipulators? For example, even in the most liberal societies, one finds large majorities supporting severe punishments for criminals, a tendency which liberal elites are always fighting against in their promotion of therapy. And, as society founders on the unnatural liberal prescriptions, liberals call for more "therapy", more "education", etc. (i.e., for a total and even more thorough "brain-washing"!) In relation to traditional aristocratic societies such as that of Sparta, it must be said that there is something repellent in the concept of the suppression of the helots (e.g., the secret police to monitor them, a season of "lawful war" waged against them, etc.) Theoretically-speaking, the modern Sparta would give every citizen of the state a chance to compete under a strict discipline, and those who made it to the top would then become the unquestioned "masters". It might also be argued that the vaunted Ancien Regime of pre-Revolutionary France was already rife with Enlightenment ideas, and that the Revolution, in some senses at least, represented a healthy upsurge of the people against a corrupt elite. Who could support a system that the ruling classes themselves did not believe in? Might it not also be argued that it was the skepticism and libertinism of the Enlightenment that engendered the greatest abuses of noble privilege? The Marquis de Sade, for example, was saved from almost certain execution for his sexual crimes because of his aristocratic status. Few have cared to notice that the Marquis de Sade was himself a political thinker of the Left, a point made in, among others, Eric von Kuehnelt-Leddihn's book, Leftism, which was reissued in 1990 (Leftism Revisited). Ironically enough, von Kuehnelt-Leddihn was himself a classical "aristocratic liberal" (who also felt at least somewhat comfortable with American neoconservatives), and stood in conscious opposition to "the mob" and its "atavistic" impulses. Nevertheless, the illuminism of the political thought of de Sade might well be instructive in terms of understanding the "negative nihilism" of the Left and certain of its social and psychosexual obsessions, for example, "the killing of the Father". Like the radical feminists, for example, de Sade sought the abolition of the family. Far from celebrating "eros", he consciously sought to sever sexuality from fecundity, celebrating, for example, the sterility of sodomy. It is often also considered that his writing has a distinctly "mechanical", repetitive quality. The extent to which the ruling classes of pre-Revolutionary France were suffused with Enlightenment ideas is partially demonstrated in Robert Darnton's The Business of Enlightenment: A Publishing History of the Encyclopedie, 1775-1800 (Cambridge University Press, 1979), which traces the diffusion of that massive work into France's wealthiest households. The Encyclopedie, although anathemical to the Ancien Regime, was in fact a "bestseller" among the richest households of France, making enormous fortunes for its printers and distributors, who effectively circumvented royal censorship. In fact, Malesherbes, the royal censor, was a not-so-secret admirer of the Enlightenment, and personally prevented the work's effective suppression. The Encyclopedie, consisting of several rich volumes, cost well over a thousand livres, where the average daily income of a Parisian worker was less than a livre! In his book, Eric von Kuehnelt-Leddihn argues that already in the Eighteenth Century, there existed, especially in France, and extraordinarily powerful liberal cultural establishment (the initial blaze of Enlighenment!), which effectively suppressed anti-Enlightenment trends and ruined the careers of its opponents. Voltaire, after all, was the toast of the salons of Europe. It was only in the Late Eighteenth and early Nineteenth centuries that the Romantic counter-tendency could painfully emerge. Although the Nineteenth Century was "the Age of Industrialization", it was also an age when Romanticism flourished, and when conscious nationalism became paramount -- quite possibly as it never had before in history. Another mark of the Ancien Regime's corruption is afforded in the very first chapter of Albert Sorel's L'Europe et la revolution francaise (1885), where he describes the sordid perversion of the principle of raison d'etat as providing a carte blanche to a-national or anti-national dynastic sovereigns in the period of so-called "enlightened despotism". The fact is that Joseph II's reforms of the Austrian Empire, or those of other "enlightened monarchs", were directed largely against the customs and traditions of their peoples. Sorel also goes on at length about the levels of hypocrisy reached by the powers partitioning Poland -- an old, historic kingdom -- between themselves. In terms of the future, it could be argued that elitism is a dead-end as far as any possibility of effecting meaningful social change goes, whereas the populist approach gives one at least a fighting chance. Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home Mumbai: The AIIMS medical board report ruling out murder angle in the Sushant Singh Rajput case is a slap" for those who had defamed" the Maharashtra government over the actors death, state Minister Jayant Patil said on Monday. Speaking to reporters here, the Water Resources Minister said the AIIMS report has also proved the Mumbai Police handled the case properly before it was taken over by the CBI. It (the AIIMS report) is a slap for those who had defamed the Maharashtra government over the entire episode, said Patil, who is also state president of the NCP, the second largest constituent in the Shiv Sena-led MVA government. He said the main objective before the Mumbai Police was to find out who was responsible for the actors suicide and the city cops were probing that angle. The New Delhi-based All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) medical board last week ruled out murder in the death of Rajput, terming it a case of hanging and death by suicide". Rajput (34) was found hanging in his suburban Bandra apartment on June 14. The Mumbai Police probed the matter initially before the CBI began its investigation into the case in August following a ruling by the Supreme Court. The high-profile case also saw a tussle between the Maharashtra-Bihar cops. At last week's presidential debate, US President Donald Trump refused to condemn white supremacists and far-right groups like the Proud Boys, an organisation that has been known to incite violence. The President's comment telling the Proud Boys to "stand back and stand by" provided a boost to the group on social media, emboldening its members to use Trump's words as a rallying cry. Two days later, amid rising outrage, Trump denounced the group. But then actor and activist George Takei suggested a clever comeback a way to drown out the hate on social media and replace it with something, well, gay. "What if gay guys took pictures of themselves making out with each other or doing very gay things, then tagged themselves with #ProudBoys. I bet it would mess them up real bad. #ReclaimingMyShine," Takei, who is gay, tweeted on Thursday. Amid the heightened tension along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will face each other for the first time since the Galwan Valley incident during the BRICS Summit to be held on November 17. Both the leaders will be face to face virtually for the first time amid the India-China LAC tension. Since 2014, both leaders have met 18 times including at two famous informal summits-- 2018 in Wuhan informal summit and 2019 in Mamallapuram. In 2019, the two leaders met for the first time since the re-election of PM Modi on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in Bishkek. This was followed by the visit of Xi to India for the informal summit. For BRICS meet, both leaders have been to each other's country, like PM Modi visited Xiamen in 2017 and President Xi to Goa in 2016. A BRICS statement read, "The theme of the meeting of the leaders of the BRICS countries is BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth. The main purpose of the Russian BRICS Chairmanship in 2020, as it is for multifaceted cooperation between the BRICS countries, is to contribute to raising living standards and quality of life our peoples." "This year the five countries have continued close strategic partnership on all the three major pillars: peace and security, economy and finance, cultural and people-to-people exchanges," it added. Despite the current global situation due to the spread of the coronavirus infection, the activities under the Russian BRICS Chairmanship in 2020 are carried out in a consistent manner. Since January 2020 more than 60 events have been organized, including via videoconferencing. The BRICS Summit will be the jewel-in-the-crown event of the Russian BRICS Chairmanship, which will provide the impetus for further strengthening cooperation together with our partners to ensure the well-being of BRICS countries, noted Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation, Executive Secretary of the Organising Committee to Prepare and Support Russias SCO Presidency in 20192020 and BRICS Chairmanship in 2020. Earlier, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said that the Indian Air Force is very "well-positioned" to deal with any threat and very strong deployments have been made in all relevant areas considering the security scenario. ANI quoted him as saying, "It depends on how the talks progress. The talks towards disengagement, followed by de-escalation, are on. We hope that the talks will progress along the lines that are expected: IAF Chief RKS Bhadauria, when asked 'how do you see the next 3 months play out in eastern Ladakh?' IAF chief further said, "current progress is slow, what we see is an increase in an effort to dig-in for winter, in terms of forces on the ground, in terms of deployment of air assets in airfields close by. Defence forces see the ground reality after that. Our further action will depend on ground realities." "China will use Skardu (airfield in Gilgit-Baltistan) is an open-ended question. But if China needs to take Pakistan's help to confront us, I have nothing to say. If Skardu gets used by China then it is a collusive threat and we will deal with it accordingly," IAF Chief added. Addressing a press conference ahead of Air Force Day on October 8, the IAF chief said Chinese airpower can't get the better of India's capabilities but at the same time added that there is no question of underestimating the adversary, adding that the IAF is prepared to deal with a two-front war along the northern and western borders if such a scenario arises. When asked about the situation in eastern Ladakh and a possible threat from China in the region, Bhadauria said, "Be rest assured that we have deployed strongly to deal with any contingency," adding "We have made deployment in all relevant areas; Ladakh is a small part." The Air Chief Marshal said the IAF is "very well-positioned" to deal with any action along the northern border, adding that induction of Rafale jets has given us an operational edge. India has deployed thousands of troops and heavy weaponry in the high-altitude region to deal with any eventualities. The IAF has also deployed almost all its frontline fighter jets like Sukhoi 30 MKI, Jaguar, and Mirage 2000 aircraft in the key frontier air bases in eastern Ladakh and elsewhere along the Line of Actual Control. Live TV The newly inducted fleet of five Rafale jets has also been carrying out sorties in eastern Ladakh. The IAF has also been carrying out night time combat air patrols over the eastern Ladakh region in an apparent message to China that it was ready to deal with any eventuality in the mountainous region. The armies of the two countries are scheduled to hold a fresh round of talks on October 12. Notably, India and China are locked in a five-month-long bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh. Both sides have held a series of diplomatic and military talks to resolve the row, but there has been achieved no breakthrough to end the standoff. A video containing the lovely memorable times shared by Ray Styles and his fiancee, Felicia Omari, has surfaced on the internet after his death. The video captures highlights of the couples lovely moments at the poolside, at the shopping mall, taking strolls together etc. In another, she was captured kneeling down at his feet and the look on his face showed she was very distraught. It appeared Felicia was assuring her boyfriend that all was going to end well for him, as he looked at her with a smile on his face. The video has broken the hearts of some Ghanaians who have reacted to it. Revengebody, for instance, said the video is a difficult one to watch: revengebody_gh: This is difficult to watch. May God comfort her. View this post on Instagram After the death of her boy through their thick and thins A post shared by GhPage.Com (@ghpagenews) on Oct 5, 2020 at 12:20am PDT Ray Styles thanks the world for the donations he's received so far pic.twitter.com/C1y1t4Dwfo Ameyaw Debrah (@ameyaw112) August 21, 2020 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 Arsenal have completed the signing of midfielder Thomas Partey from Atletico Madrid. The Gunners met the 45million release clause in the Ghana international's Atletico contract. He will wear the No 18 shirt. Partey had been heavily linked with Arsenal throughout the transfer window and a deal has now come to fruition. Atletico Madrid's statement says La Liga informed them that the release clause for Thomas Partey was paid 32 minutes before the deadline. Atletico Madrid have confirmed that Thomas Partey has terminated his contract with the club Partey will join Arsenal after Mikel Arteta's side triggered the midfielder's 45m release clause According to ESPN, Partey, 27, has joined on a four year deal with the option for a further year. Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta told the club's official website: 'We have been watching Thomas for a while, so we're now delighted to add such a high quality player to our squad. He is a dynamic midfielder with great energy. 'He brings a lot of experience from a top club that has competed at the highest level in La Liga and the Champions League for several years. 'We're very impressed with his attitude and his approach to the game. He's an intelligent footballer and we're looking forward to him integrating into our system and contributing to the progress we're building at the moment at the club.' Arteta says that Arsenal pursued Partey as they were impressed with his quality and attitude Arsenal's technical director Edu said: 'Thomas has all the right attributes to be a top player for Arsenal. He is a leader on and off the pitch and he is exactly the kind of player and person we want at the club. We already feel like we know Thomas very well based on the work we have done analysing his performances closely in recent times. 'With his all-round game and positive aggressive style, he will be a brilliant addition to our squad. We've made a strong start to the season and we want to continue to build on this with Thomas now part of our club.' Partey will wear the No 18 shirt for Arsenal and will link up with the club next week Partey will link up with Arsenal next week when he returns from international duty with Ghana. Atletico's statement on their official website read: 'LaLiga informed Atletico de Madrid at 11.28pm on Monday that Arsenal representatives have paid Thomas Partey's release clause at the sports association's headquarters. 'The player has therefore unilaterally terminated his contract with our club, which ran until June 30, 2023.' It is believed Partey's wages are around 250,000 a week and a 1.8m signing on fee could be included. Partey travelled to London to undergo a medical. He made 188 appearances for Atletico. The Spanish club had been keen to extend the Ghana defensive midfielder's deal, but the financial ramifications of the coronavirus pandemic meant that Atletico were unable to meet the player's demands. Gunners midfielder Lucas Torreira has joined Atletico Madrid on a season-long loan Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira has joined Atletico on a season-long loan. Meanwhile, Gunners outcast Matteo Guendouzi has joined Hertha Berlin on loan. The French youngster fell down the pecking order in north London after falling out with Arteta, with the Spaniard left unimpressed by a series of misdemeanours. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Dzulfiqar Fathur Rahman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 08:50 475 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c491bb5b 1 Business Unilever-Indonesia,president-director,leadership-change,shareholders-meeting,consumer-goods Free Consumer goods giant PT Unilever Indonesia announced on Friday its plan to appoint a new president director, president commissioner and director in a leadership change. Outgoing president director Hemant Bakshi is resigning from the post he has held since 2014 and will assume a leadership role at Unilevers global division, which supervises the companys Indonesian branch. He will also replace Maurits Lalisang as Unilever Indonesias president commissioner. Ira Noviarti, who currently serves as a director for the companys beauty and personal care business, will be the new president director. She currently supervises the companys soap brand Lifebuoy and toothpaste Pepsodent, among other products. The company will seek shareholders approval for the leadership change in a general meeting held in the near future, it said in a statement on Friday. A series of achievements have been made during Bakshis leadership, including digital transformation in all lines of operations, a series of breakthroughs and innovations within the companys brands and recognition both nationally and internationally through various awards received by the company, the statement read. Ira Noviarti, who is proposed to be the next president director, is a figure with strong capabilities. Ira served as Unilever Food Solutions Southeast Asia managing director from 2015 to 2017. She worked as Unilever Indonesias director for ice cream, media and consumer market insight during the period of 2010 to 2015. She was also in charge of the companys COVID-19-related programs, such as Unilever Untuk Indonesia (Unilever for Indonesia). In addition, she also led the committee of diversity and inclusivity that focuses on improving female representation to create gender equality, open opportunities and access for the disabled and eliminate negative stereotypes in the workplace and society, according to the statement. The company will also appoint Reski Damayati, who now serves as general legal counsel and secretary, as director to replace Sancoyo Antarikso. Sancoyo is resigning from his post after 30 years with the company. Unilever Indonesia, which operates nine factories in West Java and East Java, booked a net profit of Rp 3.6 trillion (US$242.04 million) in the first half of the year, marking an annual decline of 2.2 percent as the COVID-19 pandemic battered Indonesian consumers. The companys stocks, traded under the code UNVR at the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), slipped 0.31 percent to Rp 8,000 apiece on Friday as the benchmark Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) dropped 0.87 percent. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 23:19:15|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TEHRAN, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Iranian judiciary will sue 46 U.S. nationals for their alleged role in sanctioning Iran, Ali Baqeri, the secretary of Iran Judiciary Human Rights Bureau, said on Monday. "With the collaboration of relevant bodies, including the Intelligence Ministry, 46 American people were identified to be sued by the prosecutor general of Tehran for their role in exerting oppressive anti-Iran sanctions," Baqeri was quoted as saying by official IRNA news agency. The judiciary will respond to the "hostile and criminal" measures of the United States over its sanctions, he stressed. Enditem Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Adrian Wail Akhlas (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 12:36 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c492426a 1 Business economic-recovery,omnibus-bill-on-job-creation,deliberation,state-spending,foreign-investment,COVID-19 Free The government is pinning its hopes on foreign investment and state spending to improve economic growth next year, following the expected deliberation of the omnibus bill on job creation this week, the countrys top officials have stated. The Finance Ministrys Fiscal Policy Agency head, Febrio Kacaribu, said on Oct. 2 that economic reforms through the bill, the creation of a sovereign wealth fund and the governments investment, were expected to help support the economy in 2021. We are pushing for these economic reforms so that investment is positive going forward, otherwise it would be hard to improve economic growth, he told reporters. We must start to chase investment-driven economic growth to have a large multiplier effect. The House of Representatives Legislation Body (Baleg) and the government have agreed to pass into law the controversial omnibus bill on job creation in the next plenary session on Oct. 8, despite mounting opposition from members of the public particularly labor groups in recent months amid concerns over its impact on labor rights and the environment, among others. The government is trying to revise 79 laws and more than 1,200 articles with the omnibus bill. The bill, which is more than 1,000 pages long and contains 174 articles in 15 chapters, is expected to improve bureaucratic efficiency and cut unnecessary red tape, particularly in regard to business permits and investment. The bill is seen as necessary, as the countrys economy shrank by 5.32 percent in the second quarter this year, and is widely expected to record the first economic contraction since the 1998 Asian financial crisis this year. The government is targeting 5 percent economic growth next year. Meanwhile, Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) data shows foreign direct investment (FDI) realization fell 6.9 percent year-on-year to Rp 97.6 trillion (US$6.5 billion) in the second quarter as the global economy cooled due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Read also: Purging corruption, corrupt officials key to effective omnibus bill: Experts The omnibus bill on job creation is expected to help the economy grow 5.7 to 6 percent, according to the Office of the Coordinating Economic Ministers secretary, Susiwijono Moegiarso, claiming that it will be able to create up to 3 million jobs per year. The government estimates that up to 5.23 million Indonesians may lose their jobs during the pandemic. Without the structural reform brought by the omnibus bill on job creation, risks loom for Indonesias economy in the future, he said in a statement on Oct. 2. We are hoping that the omnibus bill could be a breakthrough regulation that could solve the complex labor issues and facilitate investment so that we can create jobs, he added. The government also plans to continue its social protection programs, tax incentives and stimulus for small and medium businesses, as well as large corporations, among other planned stimulus programs to revive the economy, Febrio went on to say. We will continue to build infrastructure and strengthen the information and communications technology infrastructure to support the economy going forward, he added. The government is preparing Rp 2.75 quadrillion in state expenditure to fuel the virus-battered economy next year, including key sectors such as infrastructure, education and health care, among others. The country expects a budget deficit of 5.7 percent of GDP next year, lower than this years 6.34 percent. The prospect of investment growth will heavily rely on the trajectory of the coronavirus pandemic, Center of Reform on Economics (CORE) Indonesia research director Piter Abdullah told The Jakarta Post. Investment will not come without getting the pandemic under control. Although the omnibus bill would improve the countrys investment climate, the governments inconsistency in policy-making could hinder foreign investment, he went on to say. "They need to be consistent with their policies to ensure investment will come at full potential." Pat Kennedy, who runs the Greater Philadelphia Diaper Bank in Kensington, said that low-income people who already have a hard time affording diapers have a bigger problem during the pandemic. The diaper bank provides diapers to agencies in the area who distribute the disposables to those in need. Read more Tania Sanchez fears running out of diapers. Theyre a significant expense, calculated in her major monthly costs along with food and rent. And its not as if her 6-month-old daughter will soon outgrow the $80 worth of Pampers she goes through every 30 days or so. The pandemic has made a difficult situation infinitely harder. Diapers cost so much, and now we dont have the budget for it, said Sanchez, who stays home to take care of the baby and her 3-year-old son. Her husbands waiter job was slashed from 60 hours a week to 20 because of the coronavirus. Sanchez now must rely on the Aquinas Center, a South Philadelphia nonprofit that supports the local community, for donated diapers. Im so thankful, she said. It would be so hard otherwise. While its common knowledge that low-income families must apply for food stamps, stand in line at food pantries, and generally fight and fret to stay clothed, housed, and insured during the time of COVID-19, many Americans dont realize how big a problem the lack of diapers poses. Oh, my gosh, need is growing, said Pat Kennedy, executive director and founder of the Greater Philadelphia Diaper Bank in Kensington, which supplies diapers to places such as the Aquinas Center. Last year, the nonprofit distributed 820,000 in the Philadelphia area. Since the coronavirus took hold in March, however, and individuals began losing jobs, the diaper bank has given out 1.4 million, a number that Kennedy expects will grow to more than 2 million by the end of the year. Cradles to Crayons, a nonprofit in Nicetown that provides diapers and other items to low-income children, has already distributed 1 million diapers since the pandemic began, a period of time when it would normally disburse 650,000 disposables. People who never needed our help before have lost income because of the pandemic, said Kennedy, whose organization is completely volunteer-run. I dont know when were getting back to normal. Unprecedented demand The rest of the nation is witnessing unprecedented demand for diapers, according to Joanne Goldblum, chief executive officer of the National Diaper Bank Network, headquartered in New Haven, Conn. The network distributes 64 million diapers annually to 200 member organizations, Kennedys included. Each of those programs is giving away at least 50% more diapers since the pandemic started; some report increases of 400% or more. Reliant on donations from diaper manufacturers as well as monetary contributions, Goldblum said her organization is still hoping that $200 million in emergency funding to support diaper distribution programs will be included in the COVID-19 relief package being negotiated in Washington. It is, Goldblum said, a bi-partisan request led by Senators Chris Murphy (D., Conn.) and Joni Ernst (R., Iowa). Members of the House of Representatives are also looking for solutions, backing a continued push to pass the End Diaper Need Act of 2019. The bill would provide grants to diaper banks and similar organizations to distribute diapers to those in need. For Dewi Liani, 33, of South Philadelphia, hard times are approaching, because shes running out of the enormous cache of diapers that generous friends gave her at the baby shower for her 8-month-old son. Liani, who worked at the same printing company her husband does until the baby came, said the cost of diapers and baby wipes can be overwhelming. She doesnt want to put her son in day care for fear of COVID-19, so she stays at home with him, losing money. Its not like we have extra cash lying around, she said. Not surprisingly, its much cheaper to buy diapers in bulk, which low-income parents cant afford. So, instead of purchasing a 120-count box of Pampers for $31.10 on Amazon, many parents living in poverty are forced to buy single diapers for $1 at bodegas. Keeping kids in wet disposables Because diapers are so dear, parents will often keep children in wet and soiled disposables for a long time possibly even rinsing and reusing them, said Michal Smith, executive director of Cradles to Crayons, which also has agencies in Boston, Chicago, and New York City. Along with the rashes and urinary-tract infections that kids in used diapers suffer, there are other consequences, she said. Uncomfortable children will fuss, and that, in turn, can incite child abuse from demoralized parents, Smith said. A Yale University School of Medicine study in 2017 found that low-income mothers with diaper need have been known to develop depression. Why not use cloth diapers? Overall, just an estimated 5% of U.S. families do. Experts say its unreasonable to expect those in poverty to live life differently than the rest of the culture, as though being poor means people should do without cell phones, air conditioning, television, or disposable diapers. Besides, cloth diapers have built-in obstacles. Day-care centers wont allow parents to drop off kids without disposable diapers. That affects employment because many parents would be unable to work without day care. Also, a family using cloth diapers would need a washer and dryer, and many low-income Americans dont own them. Beyond that, commercial laundries dont allow cloth diapers to be washed in their machines. And not many moms and dads have the time or inclination to clean cloth diapers in a bathtub or toilet, experts say. Scary without diapers Overall, lack of a sufficient supply of diapers is one more burden a low-income family bears. And the pandemic is yet another stressor added to the pile. During COVID, many of the stores in my neighborhood have had empty shelves in the diaper section, said Courtney Jenkins, 32, a mother of three in Northeast Philadelphia who works for an organization that helps people with behavioral issues. HELP US REPORT: Are you a health care worker, medical provider, government worker, patient, frontline worker or other expert? We want to hear from you. For diapers, shes turned to the Philadelphia Interfaith Hospitality Network, a homelessness-prevention program that distributes the disposables it receives from the Philadelphia diaper bank. Even with child support, Jenkins doesnt always have enough money to pay for what she needs. Since me and the kids father split, sometimes I have to choose between food and Pampers. Things can get scary without diapers. The Philadelphia Inquirer is one of more than 20 news organizations producing Broke in Philly, a collaborative reporting project on solutions to poverty and the citys push toward economic justice. See all of our reporting at brokeinphilly.org. HOUSTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Lummus Technology today announced that it has been awarded a contract by Enter Engineering Pte. Ltd. for the Shurtan Gas Chemical Complex in Uzbekistan. Lummus' scope includes the design and supply of four proprietary Short Residence Time (SRT) VI and VII type cracking furnaces, which will more than double the production of ethylene at Shurtan's facility. "Our advanced SRT ethylene furnaces optimize reliability in capacity, yield, run-length and energy efficiency," said Leon de Bruyn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lummus Technology. "We are grateful to continue our partnership at Shurtan and look forward to working with Enter Engineering to expand the ethylene production while reducing relative emissions and operating costs at the Shurtan Gas Chemical Complex." Lummus was selected due to its leading ethylene technology position and its extensive experience with ethylene furnaces, having developed pyrolysis furnaces as part of its proprietary equipment portfolio. The first generation of the pyrolysis heatercalled SRT-I (Short Residence Time)was developed in the mid-1960s. Since then, seven generations of SRT pyrolysis furnaces have been commercialized. The most widely-selected SRT furnaces include SRT-III, SRT-V, SRT-VI and SRTVII. Lummus has provided more ethylene furnaces than any other ethylene process licensor, representing more than 40 percent of worldwide capacity. About Lummus Technology With a heritage spanning more than 110 years and a focus on innovation that has resulted in approximately 130 technologies and 3,400 patents, Lummus Technology is the global leader in developing and implementing process technologies. We are a Master Licensor of petrochemical, refining, gasification and gas processing technologies, and a supplier of catalysts, proprietary equipment and related services to customers worldwide. To learn more about the new Lummus, visit www.LummusTechnology.com. SOURCE Lummus Technology, LLC Related Links www.LummusTechnology.com It may look like a facelift, but the 2021 GS4 is redesigned from bumper to bumper. First, there are the new headlights that now incorporate a new set of LED daytime running lights. Also, GAC is following the trend of big grilles by giving the GS4 a more prominent nose. To add a bit of flair, the bumper corners feature sharper edges. In the current local GAC line-up, the GS4 crossover is one of the top sellers. That said, it's also the oldest car in the range. Introduced in China back in 2015, the current generation is now five years old. But a new decade brings an all-new GS4, and we're wondering when GAC Philippines will bring it in. The side of the crossover still features the floating roof look, but there are more curved lines added for the all-new model. As for the rear, it's a big difference from the previous generation. The taillights look more dynamic, and the license plate holder is now on the tailgate. But it's on the inside where the GS4 made a big leap forward. The new slim dash is a stark contrast to the curved and angular design of the current model. Also, the door panels follow the theme of the dashboard, no longer employing a wraparound design. And an LCD screen replaces the analog instrument cluster, and the infotainment screen is much wider. As for the engine, there's now more power under the hood. The 2021 GS4 packs 169 PS and 265 Nm of torque from its 1.5-liter turbo engine. With that, power is up by 18 PS, along with a torque gain of 30 Nm. For transmission options, a six-speed manual is standard, with a six-speed dual-clutch being an option. The updates and upgrades make us want the 2021 GAC GS4 to land here as soon as possible. Given the experiences we've had with our long-term GA4 sedan, its high-riding sibling should be a solid and reliable crossover. However, the uncertainties of the global economy make it difficult to gauge its possible launch date, but we hope it's sooner rather than later. V odafone today hired a big shot German industrialist to chair its huge international phone masts division ahead of its stock market flotation planned for next year in an IPO that could value it at e20 billion. Rudiger Grube, former boss of the German rail giant Deutsche Bahn and ex-chairman of Airbus was hired to head Vantage Towers' supervisory board "in preparation for its IPO in early 2021", Vodafone said. The business is expected to float on the Frankfurt exchange, leading to Vodafone shareholders getting back billions of euros of value for the business, which owns 68,000 towers across nine countries. Grube had a long career at Daimler before becoming chief executive of Deutsche Bahn. Vodafone cited his experience in running capital intensive infrastructure projects as well as service-based industries. It also said he had strong political and business connections in Europe and was used to dealing with companies with varying stakeholder interests to manage. Vodafone is assembling an independent board for Vantage Towers as it prepares the ground for its giant flotation. The company's shares have underperformed for years and the flotation is hoped to reinvigorate the price. Vantage's team are expected to be urging fund managers to invest in the IPO to capture profits from future growth from 5G rollout as big telecoms operators use its masts to put up their infrastructure. They are also expected to pitch it more generally as an investment play in the growth of data usage. Vantage Towers chief executive Vivek Badrinath said: "I look forward to working with [Grube] and the wider supervisory board to drive our strategy to enable Europe's digital transformation and to benefit from the attractive long-term trends delivering growth and value opportunities across each of our markets." Grube said he looked forward to "delivering a successful IPO". Vodafone will retain a majority stake in the business after the flotation, which Barclays analysts have valued at about e21 billion based on the value of Italian towers company Inwit. Towers businesses such as Inwit and Spain's Cellnex have increased in value over the past 18 months, encouraging big telecoms companies to sell. Vodafone chose Frankfurt over London for the float during the summer. It was seen as a blow for the London Stock Exchange but Vodafone chief executive Nick Read said the decision had been made because the lion's share of the masts were in Germany so it would attract more investors there. Vodafone hired long-term Heineken chief executive Jean-Francois Van Boxmeer as its group chairman in May. There is an excellent chance that western Washington is going to be hit by a major lowland snow event. And yes, the mountains will be b... The harsh experiences of the last five years, tell us only one message - that erstwhile military dictators from our clime are not suitable to lead a constitutional democracy and that no matter how long a former tyrant stays out of the confines of the regimented life of the military, it is not so easy to 'deradicalize' a military officer that he can mount the rostrum as an elected national leader, and be subjected to critical scrutiny and constant Civil society-led pressure and evaluations. A military General who is acclimatized to the regimented life of ORDER IS ORDER or OBEY BEFORE COMPLAINTS, will find it almost impossible to adapt to the democratic regiment of doing that which the electorate want since the voters and the rest of the citizens are the owners of the Sovereignty of Nigeria and it is from the people that those in the positions of authority get their legitimacy to exercise authority. This is the difference between what the late President Umaru Musa Yaradua called 'SERVANT LEADERSHIP' as a sharp contrast from the experiences we have been crudely subjected to since 2015 which is loudly passing the wrong message that the President is above any kind of correction since in the warped imagination of some uninformed spinspin doctors masquerading about as media spokesperson, the President is all knowing. A major sign that an elected erstwhile military despot will inevitably find it difficult to wear a new toga of a democrat ready to practice the trade of democracy which states that democracy is the government of the people, by the people and for the people, emerged when against all constitutional safeguards, the occupant of the number one national office in the person of president Muhammadu Buhari, Supervised the disobedience of several court orders and proceeded to keep erstwhile national security Adviser colonel Sambo Dasuki and the leader of the Islamic movement of Nigeria Sheikh Ibrahim Elzakzacky back in detention for years since early 2015 when President Buhari assumed office. Dasuki recently regained freedom but the leader of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria as well as his wife and dozens of his followers are languishing in different derelict prisons for simply wanting to freely worship the way they are used to without harming the society. Also, the ARBITRARY ARRESTS of civilians protesting some of the policies of the current administration show that President Muhammadu Buhari is not cut out for the practice of constitutional democracy as it were. However, the gross undermining of the sanctity of the constitutionally guaranteed fundamental principles of SEPARATION OF POWERS by President Muhammadu Buhari is that which inevitably benchmarks the gravity of the crisis of governance that the 2015 inauguration of the government created. Let us now read the position of the law regarding the action of the president to disregard the binding judgements of the competent court of law as espoused by the then justice of the supreme court of Nigeria, Justice Niki Tobi, (Con). With respect, it is difficult to agree with the Supreme Court on the first reason it gave for disobeying court order. It is trite law that a judgement or ruling delivered is presumed to be correct until set aside by a competent court of appeal. While an appellant is free to content in his ground or grounds of appeal that a judgement or ruling is wrong on ground of lack of jurisdiction that cannot or should not be accepted until ratified by a court of appeal after due process of the appeal. Therefore, an appellant cannot, or should not be given the almighty power to determine unilaterally or suo motu that the order is disobeyed because it was made by the court without jurisdiction and therefore not worthy of obedience. Jurisdiction is a very wide and amorphous concept in the judicial process. The legal consequences of lack of it by the court approximates to a bulldozer in terms of the complete destruction or annihilation of the entire case or procedure however competently handled by the court. Accordingly, it is unfair to a court of law to vest in an appellant the power to determine the lack of jurisdiction on the part of the court as basis for disobedience of the court order. The following principles of law emerge as consequence of disobedience of court orders and judgements in the light of the two cases examined above:1. An appellate court cannot, while an applicant is in disobedience of a court order, equitably consider an application for stay of execution;2. Once a court is seized of a matter, no party has a right to take the matter into his own hands 3. Nobody (including Government) is entitled to take the law into his own hands 4. The grant of stay of execution is entirely within the discretion he must bring his conduct within the legitimate scope of the exercise of the discretion. Hence, where he is in continuing disobedient of the order of a court of law, it is not legitimate to consider the exercise of the discretion in his favour. The contumacious behaviour is more egregious and censorious where the applicant seeks that discretion of the court to endorse such behaviour Niki Tobi further Said: A Government in a democracy which fails or refuses to obey court orders and judgements is not a friend to democracy. But rather a foe. Such a government is working at cross purpose with democracy. It is not a civilised government capable of functioning in the 21 century Nigeria operating a vibrant democracy. Such a Government behave in that way." That was the vintage Justice Niki Tobi. Aside these observations by the reputable jurist, many other actions that have happened that shape the opinion of most analysts that the current administration has undermined the constitutional principles of separation of powers are too numerous to examine within the context of this article. This piece is to examine the impressions being created by some officials of president Buharis office that the President is beyond reproach and cannot be put under democratic pressures to take steps to promote greater openness and ensure rapid law-based nation building processes. These TENDENCIES are not just injurious to the essence, significance and symbolism of constitutional democracy but they are ABSOLUTELY ANTITHETICAL to what the Nigerian Constitution says or are these media officials of Government out of tune with the extant laws of the land including the Constitutional norm that obliges all citizens to partake in the day to day running of the administration of their native land? Two principal characters have emerged within the Buharis government who have the unlearned and unpolished habits of continuously assaulting the Sensibilities and sensitivities of critical segments of the Nigerian society. THESE anti democratic forces surrounding President Muhammadu Buhari and acting as his spokesmen are the special adviser on media and senor special assistant on media - namely Mr. Femi Adesina and Mr. Garba Shehu. Both of these men have been firing unintelligently and blindly from all cylinders and thus are creating the perception that the presidency is such an utopia that Nigerians cannot subject to critical analysis. Their naked show of crude forms of intoxication of political powers and abuse of office shows that they are operating like a TABULA RASA that are absolutely unaware of the qualities and attributes of constitutional democracy and the pivotal role of pluralism and plurality of opinions in the evolution of real constitutionalism. To have such reactionary forces near the seat of power is perhaps the most tragic phenomenon to have befallen our modern day democracy and this is why Nigeria rather than advance rapidly in all aspects, is rapidly being destroyed by these characters holding strategic policy making offices. Some of their opinions are even directed at very patriotic Nigerians who are not politicians and whose only interests are for the preservation of Nigeria. These iconic Nigerians whose words of wisdom ought to be adopted by the President for pur common good, are men and women that do not feed Mr. President with lies only for what they can get as pecks and pecuniary offers from the corridors of power. These great persons whose strongly principled opinions are being met with crude and totally uninformed diatribes of Femi Adesina and his co-traveller Garba Shehu are accomplished men and women who are not government contractors or errand boys like Femi Adesina and Garba Shehu. In the recent times, such persons as the Bishop of Sokoto Dr. Mathew Hassan Kukah, the General overseer of the Redeem Christian Church of God Reverend Enoch Adeboye and many other revered Nigerians whose main reason for speaking out, is for the common good of Nigeria are being attacked by the spokesmen of President Muhammadu Buhari. Watching these two uncultured office holders to then unleash venomous attacks on these iconic Nigerians and other Civil rights groups for voicing their opinions on how best to promote an open society is to put it wildly, very irresponsible. What did the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye said when he only just added his voice to the national issue of restructuring. Speaking at a symposium to mark the 60th Independence anniversary put together by the RCCG and the Nehemiah Leadership Institute on Saturday, Pastor Adeboye said restructuring Nigeria must be done as soon as possible prevent a disintegration. The cleric, as quoted by the media said: Why cant we have a system of government that will create what I will call the United States of Nigeria? Let me explain. We all know that we must restructure. It is either that we restructure or we break, you dont have to be a prophet to know that one. That is certain restructure or we break up. Now, we dont want to break up, God forbid. In the restructuring, why dont we have a Nigerian kind of democracy? At the federal level, why dont we have a President and a Prime Minister? Adeboye also added that the place of traditional rulers must be re-evaluated as they are the actual landlords that control the respect of their people. On his part, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, had described the Nigerian government as Islamic fundamentalists without bombs. The Bishops view was made available to Vanguard in Owerri by the Diocesan Director of Social Communication, DDSC, Rev. Fr. Chris Omotosho. According to the DDSC, the Bishop, who was apparently angered by the seemingly endless waste of lives, equally reasoned that the only difference between the government and Boko Haram is that Boko Haram is holding a bomb. Making reference to the beheading of 10 Christians by Islamist militants in Nigeria which has sparked worldwide condemnation, the Bishop accuses the government of using different methods to achieve the same goal of Islamic dominance. Kukah, who was particularly irked by the Christmas Day attack by loyalists of Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, as well as an attack by Boko Haram terrorists on Christmas Eve, also expressed disgust with the Federal Government, when he spoke to members of Catholic Charity Aid to the Church in Need. Bishop Kukah also accused the Federal Government of using the levers of power to secure the supremacy of Islam, which then gives more weight to the idea that it can be achieved by violence. These very top quality words of the prominent Nigerians, have not in any way gone out of the expected roles that such respected statesmen should from time to time play to redirect the steps of government officials towards promoting and protecting the principles of rule of law and to preserve the unity of Nigeria or how does the philosophical words of such a respected person like professor Wole Soyinka offend any known principles of democracy only because the statesman made few remarks urging the president to arrest the rapid decline of national security? is it not true that Nigeria is witnessing some of the worst case scenarios of insecurity and instability? it is not true that some sections of Nigeria feel that they are not fairly treated and therefore necessitating such calls by Pastor Adeboye, Kukah, Soyinka and others for Fundamental reforms and restructuring? Why then should the duo of Adesina and Shehu be allowed by president Buhari to continue to unleash misdirected venomous verbal violence against well meaning citizens in a constitutional democracy whereby the plurality of opinions must be tolerated and respected? A brief look at some diatribes of Adesina and Garba will surfice to show that they may be living in a fantasy world Adesina claimed that some people had wanted to use the suspended strike as an opportunity to take a pound of flesh, which they calculated would weaken the government so much, and influence the 2023 elections. He described those who fell under the category as enemies of the country. The statement read in part, Since organised labour toed the path of sense and sensibility last week, seeing reason with the imperatives of fuel price adjustment, and opening a further window of dialogue on the service-based electricity tariff, some groups of Nigerians have been dolorous, disgruntled, and disconsolate. They had apparently perfected plans to use the strike by the labour unions as smokescreen to unleash anarchy on the land, fomenting mayhem and civil disobedience." Garba Shehu then followed with these disastrous words: "THE Presidency responds to the recurring threats to the corporate existence of the country with factions giving specific timelines for the President to to do one thing or another or else, in their language, the nation will break up. "This is to warn that such unpatriotic outbursts are both unhelpful and unwarranted as this government will not succumb to threats and take any decision out of pressure at a time when the nations full attention is needed to deal with the security challenges facing it at a time of the Covid-19 health crisis. Repeat: this administration will not take any decision against the the interests of 200 million Nigerians, who are the Presidents first responsibility under the constitution, out of fear or threats especially in this hour of health crisis. The President as an elected leader under this constitution will continue to work with patriotic Nigerians, through and in line with the Parliamentary processes to finding solutions to structural and other impediments to the growth and wellbeing of the nation and its people." THESE functional illiterates of Constitutional democracy must stop denigrating Nigeria's great men and women just for short term political and pecuniary gains. The truth is that the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria must be subjected to constructive criticisms and the President is obliged to listen that is if his agenda is for nation building devoid of Ethno Religious interests. President Muhammadu Buhari must call his academically ill equipped Media assistants to show respect when men and women of letters are speaking for the common good. *EMMANUEL ONWUBIKO is head of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA). He [email protected] www. huriwanigeria.com, www HURIWA.blogspot.com. LOS ANGELESDemonstrators on Sunday marched to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos Beverly Hills mansion, protesting company working conditions during the COVID-19 crisis and calling for higher wages, free health care and child care for employees. Protesters rallied at Will Rogers Memorial Park in Beverly Hills, then marched to the gates of Bezos home, carrying signs and chanting Tax Bezos. The demonstration was sponsored by the Congress of Essential Workers, a collective of servers, teachers and warehouse employees, and led by the groups founder, Chris Smalls, a former Amazon warehouse manager who said he was fired in March after organizing a work stoppage over the companys handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. You dont need Jeff Bezos. He needs us, he said through a bullhorn during the protest. Organizers released a list of demands, including that the company provide workers with adequate protective equipment and cleaning supplies, as well as an increase of $2 per hour for hazard pay. Amazon revealed last week, after months of pressure from workers and labour groups, that nearly 20,000 of its front-line U.S. workers have tested positive or been presumed positive for the coronavirus. But the online retail giant says the infection rate of its employees is well below that seen in the general U.S. population. Andrew Lewis, who serves on the North Westwood Neighbourhood Council, said he was among about 100 people who attended the rally at the park. When a multibillion-dollar company is subjecting its employees to substandard working and safety conditions during a global pandemic and, as a result, transmitting COVID-19 to 20,000 employees it goes beyond negligence, said Lewis, adding that he has friends who work for the company. Amazon is far and beyond the wealthiest corporation on the planet. They have the resources to keep their employees safe and healthy, and actively choose not to. Read more about: Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Ukraine Elmira Akhundova has thanked the Ukrainian leadership for supporting the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan in the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. Akhundova said this at a briefing on Monday, October 5, according to an Ukrinform correspondent. "We are very pleased with statements by [Ukrainian Foreign Minister] Dmytro Kuleba about support for the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and that 'frozen conflicts' are not actually frozen, that they can explode at any moment. [...] President [Volodymyr] Zelensky also voiced his position. He said that Ukraine supports the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan just as Azerbaijan supports the territorial integrity of Ukraine. We are very pleased with the statements of the Ukrainian leadership. Thank you for this position," she said. The diplomat said that during meetings held at the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry and with Ukrainian deputies, almost everyone she spoke with supported the position of the Azerbaijani side in the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. According to the ambassador, now more and more politicians and leaders of different countries "indirectly recognize the right of Azerbaijan to protect its territorial integrity." "This is not only Pakistan, Turkey, Afghanistan, not only Ukraine, which unequivocally supports our territorial integrity, but also Hungary, Latvia and other European countries that recognize Azerbaijan's right to liberate its territories. These are new realities that are now part of the international everyday life, and I think that this is a political precedent that will be an inspiring example for all countries where there are frozen conflicts, and this will oblige international mediators and leaders of international organizations to be more sensitive and more clear and principled about such conflicts, " Akhundova said. As was reported earlier, Armenia and Azerbaijan resumed hostilities in Nagorno-Karabakh on the morning of September 27, mutually accusing each other of shelling border areas and provoking violence. Both countries declared martial law and mobilization. The fighting has already resulted in military losses on both sides and numerous civilian casualties. Ukraine called on the parties to the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh not to stir up additional emotions and to settle the conflict in compliance with the principle of the territorial integrity of states. The conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh began in 1988. In 1994, after six years of war, the sides signed the Bishkek Protocol according to which Azerbaijan and Armenia agreed on a ceasefire. Nagorno-Karabakh proclaimed itself an independent "republic," but Azerbaijan did not recognize this, saying that the territory was occupied by Armenia. op By Express News Service The new farm reforms will improve the farmers condition and the number of suicides will come down, Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar told Prabhu Chawla, Editorial Director, The New Indian Express in TNIE Expressions, a series of live webcasts with people who matter. What was the need of three farm Bills during the Covid period? Was it right to bring the Bills at such a time? Everybody wanted growth in agriculture. But, it is unfortunate that every good work has to face some protests...Discussion on reforms and in agriculture has been going on since long. The PM has been working in this direction continuously... Whether it is accepting the recommendations of the Swaminathan Committee on MSP, or transferring Rs 75,000 crore in farmers bank accounts through PM-KISAN. Agriculture infrastructure fund of nearly Rs 1.50 lakh crore was announced. It is necessary that farming should become profitable and some legal reforms were needed for this. We brought this Act. Now, farmers will not need to go to mandis. Mandis will be one of the options, and the farmer will be free to sell his produce directly from farms or warehouse. A large amount has been dedicated for farm sector reforms. But, there are many states like Bihar, Sikkim where there is no APMC Act. Do you think that farmers there will get benefit? What will be the benefits? In Bihar, if we look back, we find that farmers were not happy with APMCs. It had become like a racket and farmers were exploited. Exploitation of farmers stopped in Bihar after APMCs were removed. Farmers are independent of doing his business in the State. But, income of farmers is very less. Income has not doubled since 2005. Farmers have started benefiting because of the central schemes. Their income will certainly rise when they will improve. Milk and fisheries are also related to farming. For milk, farmers are not bound to go to mandis. There is an open trade for milk. Milk can be sent to Delhi or any other state from Madhya Pradesh. Farmers get adequate price for milk, and milk production has gone up by 8% in last six years. Similarly, Fisheries have improved. ...Milk and fisheries have greater contribution to agriculture GDP than crops. Agriculture contributes only 18% to the GDP, down from 50%. How will we reverse this trend? Earlier, agriculture used to be the main industry and that is why it had a huge contribution. But, now more sectors have opened up. These sectors have more turnover and have progressed. Certainly, they will contribute more to the growth. For growth of agriculture, we need to do more. Today, there is a gap between farm produce and processors. Farmers will not be able to get the right price if the gap and the hurdles remain. Easy investment should reach villages. We need to provide adequate infrastructure in villages and that is why we came up with Acts on open trade. Earlier, farmers had to reach mandis. Now, the trend will reverse...processors will come to them to buy their produce. But, size of holding is very less. It looks like big industrialists will dictate over farmers. It is true that nearly 86% farms are small. But, small farmers can be a big force. For this, FPO scheme was launched. We are going to spend `68 lakh in five years on every FPO to help farmers. When these small farmers will come together in one FPO, they will emerge as a big force. It will raise their risk-taking capacity. Even small farmers will be able to get adequate price of their produce. Despite all these efforts, farmers income has not gone up much. Suicides have increased. Do you think there is no proper implementation (of schemes)... We always wanted benefits to reach the bottom. Benefits are reaching through DBT. Rs 75,000 crore of Kisan Samman Nidhi is reaching the accounts of farmers. ..they will get more benefits with the growth in digitisation. But, so far as reform is concerned, I want to say that farmers should be cautious of bad-publicity. People are criticising due to self-interests..they dont have any right to criticise. Overall, we brought three reforms. You see the 2019 Congress manifesto. They have promised that they will implement these reforms if they come to power. Even (former) Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and (former) agriculture minister Sharad Pawar spoke about such reforms during the UPA. But, they could not dare due to some pressure or influence. Even Punjab Congress manifesto talked about these reforms. Modiji is always ready to take risk for reforms. Because he knows that there will be some risks in the making of New India. The new reforms will certainly improve the conditions of farmers and will curb suicides. But, the input costs are rising. Diesel is costlier. Electricity and fertilisers have become costlier. How will income rise? I agree with this. Diesel and other prices keep moving up and down. But, I want to tell that Swaminathan ji had recommended of fixing MSP by adding 50% profits to the cost of farming. In 10 years, the UPA did not implement ther recommendations. Today, Modiji has done this. MSPs are declared after adding 50 % benefits to all the input costs. We have started this. In last six years, nearly H7 lakh crore worth purchase has been done from farmers on MSP, which is nearly the double of UPAs 10 years. But, procurement under MSP is not much in many states. In that condition, farmers will be dependent of farmers. There will be monopoly. Nobody should have any fear on this. FCI and NAFED are procuring wheat, rice and pulses, and it is rising continuously. FCI makes purchase in coordination with the states. There is a timeframe for FCI and it procures from farmers within that period. Our Act says that payment should be made to farmers within three days of purchase. It also says that there would be no taxes on trading outside APMCs. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ardila Syakriah (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 08:16 475 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c49173e1 1 National PostScript,#Explainer,COVID-19,#PostScript,PCR-test,swab-test,BIN,explainer Free While recent reports have called the reliability of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests into question, experts agree that they remain the best tests for COVID-19 but acknowledge that various factors affect results. Recently, the State Intelligence Agency (BIN), whose significant involvement in the country's pandemic response has raised questions and criticism from civil society organizations, rejected a report by Tempo magazine that its PCR tests were inaccurate. The BIN, which has received Rp 5.57 trillion of the COVID-19 response budget, said false positives and negatives were found in other countries as well and that several factors affected test results among different labs. "There are some factors that can affect differences in swab test [results]. They include the machines condition, the time of the test, the patients condition and testing kit quality," the agency's spokesperson Wawan Hari Purwanto said in a statement. Read also: No PCR tests: What you need to know about new discharge criteria Experts told The Jakarta Post it would only be fair to compare test results if samples were taken at the same time and were sent to different labs that had the same PCR settings. Indonesia operates some 263 labs for COVID-19 testing, and they have a variety of machines and testing kits. But even before samples reach labs, certain variations can affect results, including when and how samples are taken, transported and stored. "PCR tests show the best results within the first three days of the onset of symptoms if patients show any symptoms at all because that's when the viral load is believed to be at the highest level," said Maria Lucia Inge Lusida, a professor of clinical microbiology at Airlangga University (Unair). "The longer the period between symptom onset and the administration of the test, the lesser the viral load becomes and the higher the chances are for negative results," added Inge, who leads the university's Institute of Tropical Diseases. The PCR testing process also requires well-trained personnel, and the scarcity of such medical professionals has been cited as a reason for Indonesia's low testing rate. Aryati, a clinical pathology professor from Unair who chairs the Indonesian Association of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Specialists (PDS PatKLIn), said the testing work required great attention to detail, from taking the samples properly to pipetting materials and processing the tests. "Without caution, there could be contamination," she said. The machine settings and the reagents used can also affect test results. Different machines target different sets of genes that belong to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and some genes degrade more quickly than others, causing variations in detectability over time, Aryati said. She added that some genes were found in other strains of the virus as well. The BIN and experts have highlighted the cycle threshold, or CT value. PCR tests amplify samples genetic matter in cycles to bring indicators of the virus to a detectable threshold. A lower CT value means fewer cycles were required to identify the virus, suggesting a higher viral load. PCR machines in Indonesia set varying limits on the cycles, ranging between 31 and 45, but many in the country are set at a cutoff of 40 cycles, according to experts. If the virus is not identified within the specified number of cycles, the test result is negative. If the virus is found within the cycle limit, the result is positive. "The BIN has set the limit higher than other institutions, as seen through the CT value of its real-time PCR. The lower threshold is 35, but to avoid misdetection of asymptomatic cases, the BIN has increased the limit to 40," Wawan of the BIN said. Aryati, however, said results from different PCR settings, including CT cutoffs, could not be compared so easily. She said that if the CT value was set at 31 in a device with a maximum of 31.5, then if the same sample were tested using a device with a maximum of 40 or 45, the CT value should be around 39 or 44 respectively, a similar proximity to the maximum threshold. A low CT value, which could indicate a high viral load, is associated with a person being more infectious and vice versa. Some studies of viral cultures have found that CT values higher than 34 or 35 were much less likely to be cultured, meaning they were no longer likely to be infectious. Read also: Use antigen tests for screening but with caution Noting that the complexity of PCR tests could affect public trust in test results, experts have urged people to leave the interpretation to medical professionals and have emphasized that PCR tests remain the gold standard in detecting the virus despite the possibilities of false negatives and positives. Inge said that while they were not perfect, PCR tests were the best means of detecting the virus for now. "There needs to be routine quality control of labs [...] There are many new labs, and without such control, we won't know their performance," she said. The head of the Health Ministry's research and development body, Slamet, did not immediately respond to the Post's request for comment. A judge of elections in an Allentown ward is facing criminal charges for allegedly assisting voters by darkening the bubbles already filled out on about 30 ballots in this years primary election. Erika Bickford, also known as Everett Edward Bickford and Reverend Everett E. Bickford, has served as the elected judge of elections in the 3rd Ward of Allentown for at least the past ten years. The 69-year-old Bickford was charged Monday with insertion and alteration of entries in documents and prying into ballots, both misdemeanors, Lehigh County District Attorney Jim Martin said. Bickford voluntarily surrendered to detectives on Monday, was arraigned and released on $10,000 unsecured bail, Martin said. A message left for Bickford was not immediately returned. Bickford is charged as Everett Bickford. Martin noted that Bickford said in testimony before the election board preferring the use of she and they pronouns, and the district attorney used those pronouns in a news release on the case. At issue are ballots in Allentowns 3rd Ward and the contested Democratic primary between Peter Schweyer and Enid Santiago for Pennsylvania House of Representatives 22nd Legislative District, which covers part of Allentown. Bickford is not accused of altering or changing a vote to favor one of the candidates, but it appears clear beyond a reasonable doubt that Ms. Bickford colored in or darkened marks or bubbles on the ballots of about thirty voters, Martin said. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the primary election was postponed until June 2 this year. The 3rd Wards poll that day was at the Lehigh County Government Center at 17 S. 7th St., and Santiago received 95 votes and Schweyer received 52 votes there, the district attorney said. The certified election results had Schweyer winning with 2,197 votes over Santiagos 2,142, a difference of 55 votes. After the primary, Santiago filed a complaint alleging voter suppression and intimidation, and requested a special election to fill the seat. Part of her complaint was alleged irregularities at the 3rd Ward poll. A public hearing was held July 29 before the Lehigh County Board of Elections to address Santiagos allegations. The board found allegations of Bickfords conduct during the primary merited being referred to the district attorneys office and state attorney generals office for investigation. The board did not identify the specific actions of Everett Bickford which were found to be suspicious," Martin said. Santigo told county investigators that while inside the poll at the government center, she noticed that Bickford had two ballots in her hand, one apparently voted ballot and one blank ballot. Santiago alleges she saw Bickford writing on a blank ballot. Lehigh County Chief Clerk for Registrations and Elections Tim Benyo was present at the time, Martin said, Benyo reportedly admonished Bickford and told her that she had to stop and that her actions were not permissible. Benyo testified he questioned Bickford, and she reportedly said she was darkening the bubbles because the machine couldnt read them. Benyo stated he told Bickford to stop, that she couldnt do that. Benyo asked Bickford where the voter was, and Bickford said that the voter had left or that she didnt know, according to the hearing testimony. Bickford testified she assisted approximately ten voters by darkening the bubbles on their ballots so that the machine could read the ballot and that she trimmed 10 or 20 ballots so that the machine would accept them. In an interview with detectives, Bickford said that she altered no ballots, but that she darkened the dots that the voter chose. When asked how many ballots she thought she darkened, Bickford reportedly said not many, about thirty, maybe if that. The detectives examined all of the ballots from the 3rd Ward and found no evidence of tampering on the ballot; no indications of a double vote in any of the races listed on the ballot; and no spoiled ballots in the 3rd Ward. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com. Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com. Live life king size. If theres one thing the modern millennial has mastered, it is to shrug the worries off his shoulders and celebrate every moment to the fullest. We work hard and party harder, were the perfect mix of swag and sanskaar, and want to have #FullOn masti every single day. Samsung, Indias most trusted smartphone brand, has given a nod to this millennial mantra too! Their latest campaign resonates with the Full On state of mind of us youngsters were talking about fearless, uninhibited, enthusiastic and energetic phones that are truly cut out for our needs. Yes, thats everything the all-new Galaxy F-series stands for a multi-tasking hero that belongs in the millennial pocket. While weve heard that the phone is packed with super-lit features and a handsome body, the technicalities are still hush-hush. Cant blame the brand now, our generation does love surprises! But we do have some dope on the big reveal. Samsung is celebrating the launch of this awaited series with a full-fledged #FullOn Festival on the October 8, 2020 at 5.30 pm. The best part? This aint no ordinary festival, guys. Samsung has roped in Indias most favourite pop icons to headline this launch festival. The first big name to perform at the festival is Neha Kakkar! She has stunned us with gems like London Thumakda, Diamond Da Chhalla, and Aankh Marey we cant wait for her to set the stage on fire. The next performer is our favourite rap star, the OG gully boy, DIVINE! From Sher Aaya Sher to Meri Gully Mein, this dapper dude gave a new dimension to rap in India. Up next is the extremely versatile Neeti Mohan. She blessed Bollywood with songs like Nainowaale Ne and Tune Maari Entriyaan. Just imagine the musical wonder and thunder thatll be created on stage when these 3 music maestros perform together on the October 8 this year! Lastly, we also have king cool of stand-up comedy Rahul Dua to leave us in peals of laughter. While this has the music buff in me pumped up already, we have another announcement Aparshakti Khurrana will be moderating this festival. How cool is that! While weve made some big reveals about the festival, what you must know is that the Galaxy F-series is a top to toe Make in India line-up and we couldnt be prouder. Additionally, Flipkart, Indias homegrown e-commerce platform, is the exclusive sale partner for this snazzy series. Lastly (and most importantly), you can catch this festival streaming live on Samsungs Facebook page, and Flipkarts digital handle too. Weve already started the countdown to the big day, what about you? Lets not make the coming election into a personality contest. We should be concerned with accomplishments. Substance always trumps style. President Donald J. Trump may not be as diplomatic as we would like, and his style is unconventional at best, but for once cant we stop with the name calling and concentrate on his achievements? After all thats all that really counts. In the past four years we have seen: the fastest growing economy in history, repeated record highs in the stock market, lowest Black, and Hispanic, unemployment IN HISTORY, improved trade with Canada, and Mexico, plus, positive trade talks with China. (No other president has had the courage to stand up to China -- certainly not Barack Obama or Joe Biden). Tens of thousands of manufacturing jobs have returned to America. As for foreign affairs, one need only to look at the vastly improved relations with Israel, as opposed to the mess left by Obama/Biden, New peace agreements signed between Arab countries and Israel. We are finally respected again. And who challenge North Korea and made them stand up and take notice? How long has it been since they tested a nuclear device or long ranger missile? Ask yourself how many hostages have been returned from countries around the world? No one knows because President Trump doesnt grandstand about it, but the actual number is staggering. And he did it without having to pay Iran billions of dollars. Last but not least, remember what terrible shape the military was in in 2016? Half our planes were grounded for lack of spare parts. Not so any more! Thank you President Trump. Roger Ball, East Longmeadow Four males have been arrested after a dramatic police pursuit on the Central Coast in which the tyres of a luxury BMW were blown out by road spikes. The BMW 428i was allegedly stolen in Castle Hill on Sunday morning. Police said the 29-year-old owner was assaulted and sustained minor injuries despite her co-operation when threatened at knifepoint. Four men were arrested on the Central Coast following a pursuit described as "dramatic" by police. Credit:Edwina Pickles Late on Sunday night, the car was seen in central Newcastle and police initiated a pursuit that was quickly called off due to safety concerns. Just under an hour later, officers saw the car on the New England Highway at Hexham and started monitoring it, with aerial support. Police tracked the car overnight to the Central Coast town of Ourimbah, where road spikes were deployed and the car was stopped at a roadblock about 1pm on Monday. Illustration by Braulio Amado Talk Nicole Kidman Leans Into the Pain In HBOs mini-series The Undoing, a psychological thriller that premieres Oct. 25, Nicole Kidman plays Grace Fraser, a Manhattan therapist whose impeccably ordered life is suddenly shattered by violence and lust. In her stores of heat and cool, her emotional and sexual ambiguities, Grace her name unironic, until it isnt is a kind of woman weve seen Kidman play before. A kind of woman we never tire of seeing her play. A kind of woman in which the 53-year-old actress keeps finding adventurous new depths. Ive fought that emotional intensity at times and tried to protect myself from it, Kidman said. Now Im at the point where Im like, no. Digest it. Maybe dont even understand it. But always have it flow. So this question is probably too broad, but I dont want the light stuff. I like to get heavy quickly. OK, great. What do you make of the relationship between you and your audience over the years? I probably wouldnt have done a lot of the work Ive done if Id thought that out. I would have been like, people will think Im a complete weirdo. Thats a frightening prospect, the idea of tempering things in relation to what people think. And of course now in society theres an enormous amount of judgment. There has to be, as an actor, the possibility to not have it work. Sometimes it connects and people go, I know you. I know that. With Celeste I would walk down the street, and people wanted to hold me or protect me. The role connected me with the world in a beautiful way. But if I were attached to that, I then couldnt go and play somebody that isnt as relatable. Nicole Kidman, right, with Shailene Woodley and Reese Witherspoon in the first season of Big Little Lies (2017). HBO/Photofest Celeste in Big Little Lies as well as Grace in The Undoing is a part that requires some sexual boldness, which is common for you but not many other actors at your level. Does the increased judgment you just pointed to mean boldness about sex might become rarer in Hollywood? Look at Normal People, though. That was exquisite work from those two actors. Ive had situations as an actress where, oh my gosh, it was not what I thought it would be. I was probably at the forefront of this: When I went to work with Stanley Kubrick, he was like, Im going to want full frontal nudity, and I was like, Ahh, I dont know. So we came up with a great agreement, which was contractual. He would show me the scenes with the nudity before they made it into the film. Then I could feel completely safe. I didnt say no to any of it. Id wanted to make sure that it wasnt going to be me standing there nude and everyone laughing at me. I was protected, so I got to explore a complicated marriage and the way in which Toms character is having those jealous images. I would never think of not wanting the storytelling to be told properly. Having them say, Once youre OK with it, great, thats it what a fantastic place to be in as a woman. Please write that correctly, because otherwise, it will be misinterpreted. Which part? The way in which the contractual agreement that I have with a director allows me to do nudity and sex scenes because I feel safe. Sexuality is over here in a box, and we dont deal with it. Im happy to deal with it, but there needs to be a place where you can go, Im not going to be exploited. Then Ill go down the road with you. I love the relationship between a director and an actor. When its pure, its exquisite. And the other actors, when youre all there doing the work, its exquisite. Kidman with Hugh Grant in HBOs The Undoing. Niko Tavernise/HBO Is it more exquisite than life outside acting? It used to be. Probably changed mid-30s. I started working at 14. I had my first kiss onstage. I was living out my life artistically. Did you realize at some point that living your life through your work was possibly unhealthy? I dont know if it was unhealthy. But it might raise the question of where you thought real life was happening. I dont know. Do you believe in the parallel universes? Ive just seen Tenet. [Laughs.] If there was a choice, I dont know I would be an actor. But its pull is so powerful that its not a choice. But, gosh, what is reality? The idea of not being present for my children and not being here for my loved ones is devastating. And, on my deathbed, the idea of drifting off into another realm is scary. [Laughs.] Why are you laughing now? I see the way youre looking at me. I promise Im not looking at you in any remotely negative way. Sometimes I look skeptical when Im not. You have to remember youre speaking almost to Masha. Im trying to be Nicole for you. But what Im exploring right now is other realities. I did it in Rabbit Hole, where its all about, Is there a parallel universe where Im happy? When you were talking about your attitude toward your work when you were younger The labels and exact timing, that gets too logical. Its not like, Right here is when it all changed. The essence of who you are evolves. You implied, well, life is obviously more important than the work, than artistic life, and I was like, is it? I was being provocative with you. The deepest part of being a human for me is the connections. Because thats what youre left with. I was watching Philip Seymour Hoffman the other day, and I went, Thank you for your work. I watch different actors and films, its gut-wrenchingly beautiful. Watching Pacino in The Godfather. Looking at what Kubrick left us to ponder. It makes me cry because its an offering that goes beyond a life. Youve mentioned Kubrick a couple of times now. Its obvious that working with him on Eyes Wide Shut was important for you. But Ive been wondering about the total immersion and the personal psychological analysis that he asked of you and Tom Cruise as a couple for that film. At any point, in the middle of that, were you at all like, This is a weird thing were doing? No. This is where the fallacy is: We loved working with him. We shot that for two years. We had two kids and were living in a trailer on the lot primarily, making spaghetti because Stanley liked to eat with us sometimes. We were working with the greatest filmmaker and learning about our lives and enjoying our lives on set. We would say, When is it going to end? We went over there thinking it was going to be three months. It turned into a year, a year and a half. But you go, As long as I surrender to what this is, Im going to have an incredible time. Stanley, he wasnt torturous. He was arduous in that he would shoot a lot. But Id sit on the floor of his office and talk, and wed watch animal videos. He said animals were so much nicer than human beings. Though I do remember we were watching a wildlife thing where you saw the lion going after an antelope, and he could hardly watch it. Interesting, isnt it? Kidman with Stanley Kubrick and Madison Eginton on the set of Eyes Wide Shut. Warner Bros./Photofest You know how in Eyes Wide Shut you have that monologue in which your character is talking about infidelity and says to Toms character, I was ready to give up everything? That speech is all about emasculation and emotional aggression. If youre acting those scenes with the person to whom youre married, and doing it as part of this immersive process, can it open up negative feelings that later you maybe wish you hadnt opened? That fits the narrative that people came up with, but I definitely didnt see it like that. We were happily married through that. We would go go-kart racing after those scenes. Wed rent out a place and go racing at 3 in the morning. I dont know what else to say. Maybe I dont have the ability to look back and dissect it. Or Im not willing to. What satisfaction does acting give you now? Its the strangest thing: A lot of people as they get older get more protected and terrified. My desire is to keep throwing myself into things. My parenting, my relationship, my work. Ill take the pain. Ill take the joy. Because the feeling makes me go, Im in life. Its an enormous gift, this life. My ability to love is so deep. My love for my children and for my mother, whos 80 years old, and my desire to not lose her. You know, I was at her house last weekend and she pulled out a CD of my father singing. It was like being stabbed in the gut. My mother said, I cant listen to it, and I went, I can. I have to. I get why you cant, Mama, but I want to. Most people would turn it off. I left it on. Ive read you say before that youre looking for risk in the roles you take. What felt risky about Grace Fraser? Im not sure if Ive said risk. That might have been attributed to me and not come out of my mouth. Ive pushed myself into places that I dont find comfortable. Im interested in philosophy and the human psyche. Im interested in stoicism. Risk feels superficial. Its more about the stories and the ways in which I get to explore the psychology of who we are as people. Are you interested in stoicism as a quality in which youre maybe lacking? Probably. Stoicism would help me survive. Particularly for me having a mother whos Im dealing right now with a mother whos struggling. Mortality is very present and pain. So how do you survive? How do you respond? I have the power to choose how I respond. Youve reduced me to tears! Hopefully for the right reasons. Yeah. Yeah. I am dealing with family right now, my life, and that all comes into play. How did you used to think about balancing trying to do roles that allowed for a range of expression the kind of roles you do now with taking less complex roles that, for career reasons, you probably felt compelled to take? I came from an industry thats small and was fighting to survive the Australian film industry. My whole attitude was get out there and work. Theres no chance of being selective because youve got to make money. I didnt come from an affluent family. It was always about being a working actor. Then I got taken under the umbrella of a company called Kennedy Miller. They did a series here on the Vietnam War and the way that impacted Australia. I played a conscientious objector, and that was my beginning of getting to do the things that Im interested in: dissect a character and have a great arc and work with talented people. Then I fell in love and came to the States. Things were jagged. As Ive gotten older, I do get to make choices and have some say in my trajectory as an artist. What an extraordinary thing. I wonder if that answer betrayed some knee-jerk Australian humility. You said you just wanted to work, but I suspect there was always more to it than that. Now I have some control. There was a period of time when it was hard to even get a role. Im talking over a decade ago when people were like, [snaps fingers] Thats the age cutoff. Thats when I produced Rabbit Hole. That was an amazing thing because Id gotten married and was about to have my baby, and was going, OK, its not that satisfying careerwise. It was like a wall had been put around me. Part of the reason so many of us want to produce is because then we can have more say in where we end up. Kidman and Aaron Eckhart in Rabbit Hole (2010). David Giesbrecht/Lionsgate, via Everett Collection That age cutoff presumably had something to do with other peoples perceptions about sexual desirability. What does it do to your head as a person, let alone an actress to have to face that? There arent many jobs where its so explicit that you can get dropped for a younger model. Youre not told it directly. You have to read between the lines. I suppose part of my naivete is that I didnt think of it like that. I thought, Oh, people are just sick of you. Thats my Australianism, like you said. But as an actor, being attached to your face and body and the form of it is not going to bode well if youre looking for a long career where you embody different people. There was a period in your career when a big part of your work at least for audiences had to do with your daring. Within a relatively short span, you did Moulin Rouge! and Dogville and The Blue Room and The Hours and Birth. Do you still think about the element of surprise for yourself and the audience? I dont know. With Dogville I wanted to work with Lars von Trier. I loved the idea of something Brechtian on camera. I also loved going to Sweden and living communally almost and making a piece of cinema that way. The Blue Room was about coming out of Kubricks world and going, How do I work for another filmmaker right now? I cant. Ill go to the stage. The Hours: I didnt want to play Virginia Woolf. I begged to play the Julianne Moore role, and Stephen Daldry went, No, youre playing Virginia, and Im like, Im completely miscast as Virginia Woolf. I cant do it. He went, Yes, you can, and that was that. When I roll with things, its far better. With Big Little Lies, Liane Moriarty said, Ill let you guys have the book, but you have to play Celeste. These things just come. Kidman with Stephen Daldry on the set of The Hours (2002). Miramax Films/Paramount Pictures/Photofest This is another version of the audience-performer relationship question I asked at the beginning. Youve done things like that Chanel No. 5 commercial or Grace of Monaco, which play with the idea of celebrity glamour and But its intuitive. Its not like I have to say my message. Chanel No. 5 was because I wanted to go and have Karl Lagerfeld dress me and run around. As much as I had a feminist mother, she almost dressed me up like a doll at times. We would scour the flea markets for the most beautiful dresses. I grew up with a love of that. The Chanel ad was fantasy for me. What Im trying to do is get you one of the very few people alive who has embodied the image of the glamorous Hollywood star to tell me what was interesting about that experience from the inside. Bringing humanity. Trying to demystify that and make it more human. Destroyer was finding the humanity of the woman. The humanity of the character is where Im always drawn. Youve been deflecting, which is OK. Do I deflect a lot? Yeah, you do. Of course, though. Youve got me raw. Im asking about the idea of Nicole Kidman, and youre not quite engaging with the question. Every movie star has a role that he or she plays in the public imagination, right? Can I stop you there? I dont see myself as a movie star. I see myself as an actor. But you understand these perceptions exist. I can put on a dress, but thats the pomp and ceremony. The truth of it is I see myself as an actor. Baz Luhrmann would always say to me, Nicole, youre not the girl next door, and Id be like, But I want to be able to play that! No, youll never get cast as that. That I didnt understand, you know? And Stanley would say to me, Youre a thoroughbred. I dont take to that. Dont confine me. Let me grow and explore. Thats all I ask. My question is whether Its the thoroughbred in me going, Im bucking now. Kidman in Destroyer (2018). Sabrina Lantos/Annapurna Pictures, via Everett Collection Let me rephrase it: What insights do you have about what the culture thinks of female movie stars? What can you tell me about that societal role that other people cant? It interests me how the latest role youve played is usually the way in which youre going to be perceived. I can see why other people go, Im only going to play something that everybody feels sympathy for. That would be a disservice to the human condition for me because Im interested in all facets of it. I feel like when these questions come, youre putting a bridle on me, to use the horse analogy. Its saying, Were going to tame you. I dont want that. Its why Im bucking you and deflecting you. Please dont saddle me or bridle me. Can we keep going for a little more? Yeah, youre quite fun. On Zoom its the weirdest thing, having not done an interview for six months, talking about the past and films. Just a weird thing. Let me ask a question that ties into The Undoing. Its also about a very particular aspect of your acting, which resonated for me. Why are you rolling your eyes? Because Im Australian. We have a tough time with compliments. I didnt say it resonated in a good way. [Laughs.] Oh, OK! There you go! But were probably of that ilk where its like, Shut up. Dont give yourself so much importance. Get on with it. Thats what were raised with. On a whim I watched The Human Stain. Oh, why? Ugh. Im curious about if or what you discussed about that part with Philip Roth. In his novel, your character is a bit of a cipher, but you wouldnt know it from your performance. We talked more about life because I was with Philip Roth. Going to dinner with Philip Roth, I was always like, God, tell me, you know? He was one of the great minds. Difficult but great. He would give me tidbits about the character. I cant remember. I have a pretty shoddy memory these days. Kidman with Philip Roth on the set of The Human Stain (2003). Miramax, via Everett Collection What did Philip Roth tell you about life? I remember I would just go, Why? He signed me a copy of The Human Stain with, Why not, Nicole? Coming from him, that sounds slightly flirtatious. He hated the question Why? And he hated guilt. He said it was a completely narcissistic emotion and selfish. Didnt believe in it. Didnt even believe it was an emotion. I think we fought about that. Im Catholic. It definitely exists, Philip. And he said, No, its selfish and narcissistic. Was he charismatic? Deeply. Powerfully. And angry. About what? I think everything. He had a sore back and was angry about that. Very bad back. Did you know him at all? Only through his books. Wouldnt you say he had a lot of anger in him? Among other things. Yes. He had a lot of things. He had a lot of pathos, a lot of anxiety, as those great minds do. The same with Stanley. The great minds, they were very challenging. As is Jane Campion, because I always want to put the women in there. You could ask me about Jane. Why didnt you wind up doing In the Cut with her? I was developing it with Jane for a number of years with Susanna Moore. I had a bad knee injury. A lot of things I didnt do because of that injury, and I dont like to talk about films that you end up not doing. I basically was unable to stand for more than 10 seconds for about a year. I cant work injured. Jane wanted to make it, so I was so happy when Meg Ryan got that chance. I love when people get chances to do things that you dont immediately go, Thats perfect. I suppose having Meg step in and do something shed never had the chance to do was exciting for her. I love all Janes films. People like her change the world artistically. Im incredibly dedicated to them. Im about to go and do this thing with Robert Eggers in Ireland. Thats an unusual thing to be doing in a pandemic, but I dont want to let him down. I believe in his artistry. So will I put myself in a bit of danger? Yeah, I will, to support that. Its being dedicated to people who are forging art in treacherous times. Ive dedicated a life to it and I will continue to dedicate my life to it. [Laughs.] Heavy stuff. Im sorry if I put you in a sad mood earlier. Its not a bad mood. So not a bad mood. Youve got to remember, I had a conversation late last night that affects me for today. So you get me now in that place. You get my truth. Im not deflecting you. Opening illustration: Source photograph by Ryan Pfluger/The New York Times This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity from two conversations. David Marchese is a staff writer for the New York Times Magazine and the columnist for Talk. Recently he interviewed Ilhan Omar about racial justice, Mark Cuban about health care and Padma Lakshmi about eating adventurously. A former Australian ambassador to Beijing believes China is presenting itself as a responsible major power by making fresh diplomatic overtures to Australia and resisting the temptation to take political advantage of US President Donald Trump's coronavirus diagnosis. On the eve of high-profile "Quad" security meetings between Australia, the US, India and Japan in Tokyo, Geoff Raby, ambassador from 2007 to 2011, said Beijing was stepping back from pressuring American allies as the US heads towards an election and it seeks to cool diplomatic tensions on multiple fronts. Geoff Raby, former Australian ambassador to China. Credit:Louie Douvis "China wants a world where the Chinese Communist Party's role is unchallenged and uncriticised," he said. "Confrontation is a useful instrument for the Chinese [government] up to a point, but then stepping back and being conciliatory is also part of the strategy." Fu Ying, China's former ambassador to Australia, called for an end to "confrontation and abusive language" on Monday. Her comments were the second overture to Australian officials in as many months after Deputy Head of Mission Wang Xining said in August the two countries should not let "a cold, hard mind cast a shadow over our partnership". Are you interested in catering courses in Kenya and wondering where to start looking? The good news is that several institutions offer this course. All you need to do is to register and signup for the course at the school of your choice. Image: pinterest.com,@jmxclusives Source: UGC If you are interested in taking catering courses online, you have to start by finding the right school near you. Fortunately, there is a lot of information about schools offering different catering courses in different parts of Kenya. However, you must also know what you are going for. Most of the catering courses offered in different colleges and universities in Kenya range from certificate to degrees. They also come in different specifications and duration depending o the college you want to attend. Catering courses in Kenya Is catering a good course? Yes, it equips interested students with the necessary know-how to thrive in the catering industry of Kenya. It is targeted for people who enjoy working and being creative around food. Those who are passionate about hotel management will also enjoy taking this course. Fortunately, there are several options for people interested in venturing into this industry as professionals. The most popular catering courses options in Kenya include: Hotel management Hotel Management and Catering Technology Hospitality management Catering Hot kitchen cookery Baking and Pastry Durations and requirements for catering courses Once you know which course you want to take, you may need to consider the duration it would take to complete one. Usually, a standard catering course takes 18 months to complete. Most colleges that offer a Diploma in Hotel & Catering Management will also require that you attain an entry grade of C- (minus) in KCSE. However, the duration a specific course takes will differ depending on the level of certification. Certificate level courses take a shorter compared to degree courses. Apart from the course level, different colleges offer different levels of certifications for varied periods. For instance, a certificate in catering in one college may take 4 months to complete, and 6 months in a different college for a similar course level. Potential workplaces after course completion Once students are equipped with the necessary knowledge and certified upon successful completion of the course, they can work in different places. With the acquired skills, students can work in hotels as chefs and kitchen staff. Those who wish to be self-employed have the option of setting up their own catering businesses. Popular sectors to work in include: Food and beverage - employed or be self-employed Travel and tourism Hotel management Recreation Lodging Delivery services Catering courses in Nairobi and colleges offering There are several institutions offering catering courses in Kenya's capital city. These range from degrees to certificates and vary in duration. With so many catering training courses on offer, anyone can transform their passion into a career after getting the relevant training. Below are examples of what such colleges offer. 1. Courses from St. Kizito Vocational Training Below are the catering courses & fees details potential students need to know when planning to join this school. 1. NVCET catering course It takes one year to complete, with the examination being carried out by the ministry of youth. 2. Artisan catering courses This takes 1 year to complete, and KNEC carries out examinations. 3. Short courses The college offers several short cases that take only three months to complete, with internal examinations. Hot kitchen cookery for 3 months Pastry and bakery for 3 months Cookery, pastry, and bakery for 6 months 2. Kenya Utalii College As one of the major catering colleges in Kenya, Utalii offers a range of courses for its students. Some of these courses include: Certificate in Food and Beverage Services and sales for one and a half years Certificate in Food Prodcution Apprenticeship for two years Certifcate in Food Production for One and a half years 3. International Hotel and Tourism Institute This college is located in Kileleshwa, Nairobi. It offers a BTEC Higher National Diploma in Culinary Arts. The course takes 2 years to complete. 4. Boma International Hospitality College The college offers several courses that include: Diploma in Culinary Arts: This requires a minimum entry grade of C plan in KCSE or 3 passes in IGCSE Certificate in Food and Beverage Operations for one year Certificate in Food Beverage and Service Techniques Certificate in Pastry and Bakery Certificate in International Cookery 5. Kenya Polytechnic University College It offers a Diploma in Catering and Hotel Management for 2 years. Students must have attained a minimum of C plain to enroll. Alternatively, they must have a certificate in catering and hospitality. The above catering certificate courses are available at the college. It is advised that interested people should get in contact with the institution for more details. Other popular colleges in Nairobi to go for include: READ ALSO: Yali online courses offered, requirements, and registration 2020 Archdiocese of Nairobi, Kariobangi Women Promoting Training Institute Mother Bertilla Vocational Training Centre, Karen Sheraton Catering College, Nairobi Air Travel and Related Studies Center. It offers International Pastry and Bakery production for one year, and International Food and Beverage Service for 2 years. Colleges outside Nairobi Catering students do not have to travel to the capital city to take a class. There are several options closer to them to be considered. Find out which college you can attend near you. Below are highlights of a few colleges offering excellent catering courses you could consider if you come from these regions. 1. Kasarani catering college courses Image: faacebook.com, @utaliicollege Source: UGC How long does a catering course take in Kenya? It can take as short as three months and as long as 3 to 4 years, depending on the level you are taking. Degrees and diplomas take longer than certificates. Kasarani Catering College offers some of these courses, including: Diploma in Food Production for 2 years Certificate in Food Production for 1 year Cookery course for 6 months Diploma in Food and Beverage Management for 2 years Certificate in Food and Beverage Management for a year Diploma in Hotel Management for 2 years Certificate in Hotel Management for one year The school also offers short courses which take 3 months, at a cost of 30,000 Kenya shillings. READ ALSO: Africa Nazarene University fee structure 2019 2. Eldoret Technical Training Institute The school offers a Diploma course in Catering and Accommodation. It is divided into two, each with varying durations. The first course takes 18 months with 3 modules, while the second course takes 12 months with 2 modules. It also offers an Artisan Certificate which takes 12 months to complete. 3. Christemberg College Voi The school offers a course in Catering and Hospitality Management. It takes one and a half years to complete. 4. Jubilee College, Kitui The school offers a Diploma course in Catering and Hospitality Management. Students need to have attained a C minus to pursue this course. 5. Serein Education Centre, Nakuru To join this college, a student needs to have a C minus. It takes 18 months to complete a catering cost at the college, at the cost of 12000 per semester. 6. Hemland College of Technical and Professional Studies, Thika It offers a Diploma in Catering and Accommodation studies for 2 and a half years. A minimum grade of C minus is required for entry. Other colleges outside Nairobi include: Jodan College of Technology Thika Main Campus, Thika. This one requires interested students to a minimum of D plain KCSE course at 12,000 Kenya shillings. It takes 1 year to complete the catering course. Word of Faith Community College, Kiambu St. Judes Technical College Mumias. Mumbuni Technical College Machakos Ruiru College of Catering and Management Studies, Ruiru Some of the most popular catering courses in Kenya will equip the learner with important skills to get them going. Kenya has several colleges offering catering courses across the country, meaning that students have an option to study from any part of the country. Each of these colleges has varied requirements for the different courses they offer. Know what is needed in the college you want to attend. In other news, Tuko.co.ke highlighted some of the best medicine courses in different colleges in Kenya. If you're passionate about medicine, find out the best schools to attend. The article also lists the requirements needed to take these courses. READ ALSO: USIU online university courses, admission requirements and fees 2020/2021 Best online graphic design courses in 2020 Source: TUKO.co.ke Vietnams aviation sector has served an increasing number of passengers following the resumption of domestic flights and certain international air routes. (Photo: VNA) Hanoi - Vietnams aviation sector has served an increasing number of passengers following the resumption of domestic flights and certain international air routes disrupted by COVID-19. National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines said it now operates about 200 flights a day with nearly 40,000 passengers in total, compared to the 17,500 passengers it welcomed each day in August. Budget carrier Vietjet Air has restored its 40 domestic routes, conducting 160 flights a day, up 60 percent against August, and with occupancy of over 60 percent, according to the airlines Deputy General Director Nguyen Thanh Son. Bamboo Airways, meanwhile, said it served only 5,000-6,000 passenger a day during the second COVID-19 outbreak, but the number reached 12,000-15,000 once the pandemic was contained. Notably, occupancy on the Hanoi-Con Dao route, launched on September 29, has approached 100 percent. To Tu Ha, Deputy Director of Hanois Noi Bai International Airport, said that passenger throughput at the airport has increased 15 percent a week since the beginning of September. On weekends, the airport handles more than 250 flights with over 32,000 passengers each day, up nearly three-fold against August. A Vietnam Airlines aircraft took off from Incheon International Airport in the Republic of Korea (RoK) for Noi Bai on September 25, marking the resumption of routine commercial flights between the two countries. The resumption of flights received a warm welcome from Vietnamese citizens in the RoK as well as Koreans, especially businesspeople and investors. Vo Huy Cuong, Deputy Director of the Civil Aviation Administration of Vietnam, said at the time it is not only the first international flight to Vietnam after COVID-19 but also a pilot flight reviewing the domestic aviation sectors capacity to serve international tourists following the pandemic. It marks the recovery of Vietnams aviation sector, he added, contributing to completing the dual goals of containing the pandemic and ensuring socio-economic development. On September 30, Viejet Air also resumed international commercial flights, with flight VJ962 from Hanoi to Seoul and VJ862 from HCM City to Seoul. The latter route is to be reopened on October 7. Representatives from Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways said they all stand ready for the resumption of regular international flights. Economists have said the resumption of flights from Vietnam to Japan and the RoK and then Guangzhou, Taiwan (China), Laos, and Cambodia is expected to help improve the carriers revenue post-COVID-19. The domestic market is projected to recover by the end of this year and perhaps even surpass the number of passengers recorded in the same period last year. Passenger traffic for Vietnamese carriers should rebound faster than in other Southeast Asian markets thanks to the low COVID-19 incidence in the country, a report from Fitch Ratings said. The report estimates that the average revenue passenger kilometres (RPK) of Vietnamese airlines this year will reach 55 percent of last years figure. RPK is an airline industry metric that expresses the number of kilometres travelled by paying passengers. The RPK of Vietnamese airlines was 77.9 billion last year, up more than 11 percent year-on-year, according to the General Statistics Office. The ratio of 55 percent forecast for local carriers this year is higher than the 35 percent estimated for most airlines in other ASEAN countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Malaysia. The report also forecasts that, by 2021, Vietnamese carriers will record an average RPK that is 90 percent of the figure in 2019, compared to 60 percent in the aforementioned ASEAN countries, showing that the former will stage a faster recovery from the impact of the pandemic. T he deal bonanza that has swept through the City since the Covid-19 crisis today saw another major company sold as pumps engineer Weir offloaded its oil and gas division to US giant Caterpillar for 314 million. Companies have been selling businesses, or preparing them for sale, in droves as the pandemic forces them to rethink their business models and look at ways to boost their cashflow. In Weir's case, it had signalled even before coronavirus struck that it was seeking to raise money from its huge oil and gas division as part of a restructuring to focus entirely on servicing mining companies. The move is partly due to concerns about the world's move away from polluting energy sources as countries aim to become carbon neutral. Weir also claims its technology helps mining companies deal with the pressure on them to reduce their carbon footprint by helping extract minerals more efficiently. The sale to Caterpillar - following the disposal of another business known as the flow control division - will add to Weir's firepower to invest more in serving its mining clients, the group said. Chief executive Jon Stanton described the deal as "a major milestone in transforming the group into a focused, premium mining technology business." Weir began the transition to focus on this side of its operations in 2016 as it saw the potential for growth as miners saw the grades of ores they are digging up has declined, requiring better technology to obtain the minerals, plus the sector's increasingly tough emissions targets. Weir, founded in 1871, is one of the oldest companies on the London Stock Exchange, having listed shares there in 1946. UBS and Goldman Sachs advised Weir on the transaction. STAMFORD Fire officials say the blaze that destroyed four boats and Capt. Johns Tiki hut in the Stamford harbor Saturday causing well over $500,000 in damage stems from a dangerous design problem found in many motorboats. Just before 3:35 p.m. Chief Fire Marshal Walter Seely said a man in a 24 1/2 -foot 1978 Sea Ray power oat with an inboard engine had just finished fueling at the Hinkley Yachts dock. When the man turned on his engine to leave, the boat exploded in flames. The man and his passenger were able to evacuate the burning vessel before it was cast off from the dock and into the harbor, Seely said. While the exact cause for the fire might never be known, Seely said, its general cause goes back as long as gasoline- powered engines have been put into boats, whether they are wood, fiberglass or even metal. Fire Chief Trevor Roach, who has been on boats since he was a kid and for many years was the captain of the citys fire boat, said at one time fires in boats powered by gas engines were so common that many yacht designers have since powered vessels with diesel oil, a much less combustible fuel. That, he said, probably more than anything else has kept fires like these to a minimum. The dangers are so high with inboard engines that are placed within sealed bilges that fans, called blowers, are used to remove gas fumes from below the bottom of the engine where such fumes, being heavier than air, gather. Before an inboard engine is turned on, the captain is supposed to turn on the blower to expel the harmful vapors. Seely said that the captain of the Sea Ray reported that he used his blower before turning on the engine, which should have expelled the gasoline vapor. Regardless of what the skipper claims to have done, Seely said there is no doubt that there were gasoline vapors in the bilge and something must have set it off. Because of the full extent of the damage, we will probably never know the exact cause of the ignition. We have determined the fire was accidental, Seely said. The boat sunk on the east side of the harbor roughly across the harbor from the Crab Shell Restaurant, after setting three other boats on fire and also destroying the popular Tiki hut, which took people on harbor tours powered by an outboard engine. Seely said a spark from the starter, distributor, sparkplug or even a backfire through the carburetor could have ignited the fumes in the Sea Rays engine compartment. Roach said the wind in the harbor was blowing from the northwest and when the Sea Ray was cast loose, it floated over to the east side of the harbor, where it came into contact with a Boston Whaler that had three outboard engines sitting near the north end of Harbor Points transient dock. If the Sea Ray had landed about 40 to 60 feet up harbor, it would have come to rest against some rocks on the side of the harbor and probably would have caused little damage. But the burning boat set the Tiki hut ablaze along with a third boat, a Larson cabin cruiser, which was also heavily damaged. Mitch Heffernan, who owns the Carefree Boat Club, housed on the transient dock, said he could hardly believe what he was seeing when the Sea Ray was drifting over to his side of the harbor. It may have been the blasts from the hoses of the firefighters on land, but the burning Sea Ray began floating out back into the channel. Heffernan remembers seeing two men from the Stamford Yacht Club in a small Boston Whaler toss an anchor into one of the burning boats and pull it into the channel. Roach said the Sea Ray ended up drifting back to the east side of the channel and caught another boat on fire at the southern end of the transient dock and the Sea Ray and that second boat sank there. Because the Stamford fire boat was taken out of service on Friday because of a mechanical issue, neighboring communities in Norwalk, Darien and Greenwich sent boats to help battle the blaze. A New York City fire boat in City Island, New York, capable of doing 55 mph on the water, even showed up to help. But Roach said most of the days firefighting was done from land-based fire engines and personnel. Roach estimated the damage caused by the fire to be over $500,000. Coast Guard Ensign Collin Reichelt, community affairs officer for Coast Guard Sector Long Island Sound in New Haven, said the submerged boat that was set on fire and then sunk is now sheening which is to say it is leaking gasoline and a plan for its removal is now being worked out. Capt. John Davis said he was thankful no one got hurt. He said he was on his way to Stamford to take a tour in his Tiki hut when someone called him from the Crab Shell and told him his Tiki was on fire. When he got the call he could see the black smoke from Interstate-95 where he was driving and just calmly parked his car at Harbor Point. I knew it was going to be inevitable, he said, adding that the hut was burned to the waterline. Im very grateful for all the firefighters who came out to help and the police and civilians who risked their lives to save our boats. Im glad we did not have any passengers on the boat or on the dock. jnickerson@stamfordadvocate.com Ireland's government has ignored scientific advice for a new national lockdown and has instead moved the country up one level on its alert scale. On Sunday, the country's National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) recommended that all of Ireland's 26 counties be elevated to Level 5 restrictions for the next four weeks, effectively taking them back into full lockdown. The suggestion followed a rise in coronavirus infections across five-day, week-long and 14-day averages, which hit every area of the country and across all age groups. However, it is thought to have taken ministers by surprise at a time when most of the country was only under Level 2 restrictions. After two days of high-level meetings, the government decided to ignore the advice and instead move the country to Level 3 for three weeks - warning that another nationwide lockdown would have a devastating impact on the economy on jobs. The new restrictions mean that indoor gatherings will be banned, with visitors to homes only allowed from one other household. Restaurants and pubs can remain open but with enhanced restrictions. Taoiseach Micheal Martin said: 'Businesses are beginning to recover and vital public health services are still backlogged.' Ireland's government has ignored scientific advice for a new national lockdown and has instead moved the country up one level on its alert scale. Pictured: Irish prime minister Micheal Martin during an address to his country on Monday in which he announced the change 'Severe restrictions now would have a very damaging impact, which those services and businesses may not be able to recover from. 'That said, the Government has decided to increase the level of controls in most of the country and to step up efforts to ensure compliance with guidelines. 'As part of this we have decided at this stage, not to move to a more comprehensive lockdown. 'It's important to understand that the potential implications of such a move are severe and very different from those we faced earlier this year. 'It could involve the loss of hundreds of thousands of jobs with these concentrated in families and communities, which are already experiencing difficulties.' On Monday, a further 518 new cases of the virus were confirmed, up from the 364 which were announced on Sunday. There were no new deaths associated with the virus. Mr Martin added that there will be an increase in the level of public guidance over the coming days, and accused some people of taking a 'lax' attitude. CASES: How the number of cases confirmed each day in Ireland has changed since the start of the pandemic DEATHS: Fatalities haven't yet started to spiral in Ireland, even though cases have risen in the past month '(The virus) has challenged us to our very core,' he added. 'This is not about public health and businesses competing against each, it's about protecting and lives and livelihoods. 'If we all act now we will stop the need to go further and I have no doubt we can and will get through this. 'We will reach a time when we can go through our lives without worrying if we will catch this virus. 'What happens next rests in our own hands.' Mr Martin defended the government's decision not to follow the advice of the NPHET. Speaking at Government Buildings in Dublin, Mr Martin said: 'We have had detailed discussions since receiving NPHET'S recommendation to move straight to a level five lockdown. Mr Martin defended the government's decision not to follow advice to go into a full lockdown 'Central to our discussions has been looking at the wider implications of moving immediately to level five rather than realising the full potential impact of lower level restrictions. 'It's important to understand that we are in a very different situation to last March. At the weekend, more than 1,000 new cases were reported, while the 14-day total of hospital admissions also jumped from 136 on Friday night to 154 on Saturday. Nevertheless, the proposal to go back into a full lockdown was understood to have shocked ministers, since the majority of the country was under Level 2 restrictions, with no area above Level 3. Ireland's chief medical officer (CMO) Tony Holohan (pictured) chaired a meeting as the number of coronavirus cases continues to rise At Level 2, indoor gatherings are allowed with a 'rule of six' in place, while restaurants and pubs are allowed to open with the same restrictions. However, if the country were to jump to Level 5, then all gatherings would be banned except for weddings and funerals, with people told to stay inside except to exercise. Pubs and restaurants would be closed except for takeaway, while all sporting events would also be cancelled - effectively meaning another nationwide lockdown. More than 600 new cases of the virus were confirmed on Saturday, the highest daily figure in more than five months. The head of health protection at the Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland warned that a circuit-breaker lockdown there was 'almost inevitable' if Covid-19 cases continue to increase. Dr Gerry Waldron described the rise in the infection rate in the region as worrying. Earlier, the leader of the Green Party said there had been no discussion in the Irish Government about a nationwide lockdown, rather it wanted to work on a county-by-county basis. Eamon Ryan (pictured) said he believed the rest of the country could avoid being placed in level three restrictions if the public adhered to the Government's measures Instead he believed Dublin and Donegal could avoid moving to level four restrictions if people follow Covid-19 public health guidelines. Eamon Ryan also said he believed the rest of the country could avoid being placed in level three restrictions if the public adhered to the Government's measures. 'What we're seeking to do here is not to eradicate the virus, I don't think that's going to be a viable option, but to stabilise it,' he told RTE's The Week In Politics. 'I think that there is real concern when you look at other counties - it is rising very fast. We need to do the simple things, reduce the number of people we meet, avoid social contact. 'If we all do that we can avoid going to level four, other counties can avoid going to level three and I hope that Dublin can get back to level two, and Donegal too.' He added that he believed it was possible that the infection rate could be stabilised, but he admitted that everyone was 'fearful' when the daily numbers continue to rise. Mr Ryan also said that if counties moved to level four restrictions, the schools would stay open. 'I think, no matter what, I think the Government is committed, that it is important,' he said. He added: 'The international evidence is that it can be done safely and I think our schools have done a good job in terms of making it safe for our students.' Acting chief medical officer Dr Ronan Glynn said on Friday that the numbers reported over the past week represented a significant escalation in the profile of Covid-19 in Ireland. People of all ages, in particular those over the age of 70 and those medically vulnerable, were advised to limit their social contacts to a small core group for short periods of time, while remaining socially distanced. Banjul, Gambia (PANA) - The European Union (EU) High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell, has said the EU is observing with growing concern a marked slowdown in the pace of the reform process, citing the recent the rejection of the new draft Constitution Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 19:00:57|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close XI'AN, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Northwest China's Shaanxi Province is poised to harvest 1 million tonnes of kiwifruit this year, according to sources with the local industry organization. Data from the Shaanxi Fruit Industry Center show that the growth rate of the global kiwifruit cultivation area and yield has been increasing by 71.25 percent and 55.58 percent, respectively, in the past decade, surpassing 27 kinds of common fruits such as citrus and apple. By the end of 2019, China had 290,000 hectares of kiwifruit cultivation area with the annual output amounting to 3 million tonnes. Data from the customs authorities in Xi'an, the provincial capital of Shaanxi, show that Shaanxi exported 17,900 tonnes of fresh fruits with a total market value of 136 million yuan (about 20 million U.S. dollars) in the January-June period, up 14.92 percent and 12.14 percent from a year ago, respectively. Exports of fresh apple, pear and kiwi accounted for 98.43 percent of the total fresh fruit exports in the province, with the exports of fresh kiwi soaring by 92 percent to 6.56 million yuan in the first half-year. Wei Yan'an, director of the Shaanxi Fruit Industry Center, said Shaanxi will further explore both domestic and international markets to boost kiwifruit sales. Enditem Graphics chip maker Nvidia has said it plans to build Britains fastest supercomputer that healthcare researchers can use to work on medical problems including Covid-19. Nvidia, based in Santa Clara, California, said it will spend 40 million on the supercomputer, dubbed Cambridge-1, which will consist of 80 Nvidia systems and is expected to be online by the end of the year. Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang said Cambridge-1 will be available to healthcare researchers using artificial intelligence to working on urgent medical challenges. Announced today, NVIDIA is building Cambridge-1, an AI supercomputer that will serve as a hub of innovation for the U.K., furthering the work of the nations outstanding researchers in healthcare and drug discovery. #GTC20 https://t.co/bdHe9vhyTt NVIDIA AI (@NVIDIAAI) October 5, 2020 Tackling the worlds most pressing challenges in healthcare requires massively powerful computing resources to harness the capabilities of AI, Mr Huang said. Cambridge-1 would be ranked the worlds 29th most powerful supercomputer and the most powerful in the UK, the company said. Pharmaceutical companies GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca are among the groups that have already signed up to use the supercomputer. The announcement comes after the company said last month it agreed to buy UK-based chip designer Arm Holdings for up to 40 billion dollars, (31.2 billion) and would set up an artificial intelligence research centre in Cambridge, where Arm is headquartered. New York, Oct 5 : US President Donald Trump remained hospitalised on Monday morning but his Chief of Staff Mark Meadows said that he was hopeful that Trump would be discharged from the military medical facility and return to the White House later in the day. Meadows told Fox News on Monday morning, "We are still optimistic that he will be able to return to the White House later today." A specialist in the medical team treating him had said on Sunday that Trump may be discharged from the hospital on Monday if his condition continues to improve. But even that will not free him to travel. Meadows said that doctors would evaluate his condition later in the morning and Trump would then decide in consultation with the doctors whether to leave the Walter Reed National Medical Centre in Washington where he was flown in on Friday. He said that he had spoken to Trump and that his condition has improved. To show he was still at work, the White House released four orders issued by Trump on Monday morning. One was about providing mental health assistance during the pandemic and the others were orders permitting companies to continue operating a petroleum pipeline from Canada to the US. On Sunday evening, Trump got out of his presidential suite at the hospital and drove around the facility to greet supporters waiting outside with flags and signs of support. The outing was criticised by some doctors as endangering his staff and others. There was still concern about his condition after his doctor, Sean Conley, disclosed on Sunday that Trump had had two potentially serious temporary health incidents. Conley said that Trump had "experienced two episodes of transient drops in his oxygen saturation" along with high fever in one instance. He said that he was given oxygen at least once. Trump is also being treated with the steroid drug Dexamethasone, which may indicate a more serious condition than generally described by his doctors. Meanwhile, his Democratic Party challenger Joe Biden was headed on Monday to Florida to participate in two campaign events and a Town Hall meeting hosted by NBC TV. (Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in and followed on Twitter at @arulouis) Traditionally, the Supreme Courts terms end by July 1. The court aims to release all of its opinions by that date, and the justices then disperse across the globe for the summer. This year, however, the courts term never really ended at all. Because of the coronavirus, the court continued releasing opinions in argued cases through July. Then, throughout the summer, the court issued a series of significant orders about voting rights and states responses to the coronavirus. Although the start of October Term 2020 begins Monday, October Term 2019 never really ended. Advertisement The pandemic led to a delayed release of many of the courts opinions, including several of the courts big-ticket cases. The court released the opinions in the presidential immunity cases as well as the opinion in the Affordable Care Act contraception case in the second week of July. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But the term did not end with the high-profile release of opinions in argued cases. The court stayed busy with its shadow docket, meaning cases that the court decides without argument and full briefing continued on well into the summer, largely under the radar. After the official end of the term, the court handed down significant voting rights decisions likely to shape the election. In mid-July, over a dissent by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the Supreme Court allowed Florida to keep in place its pay-to-vote scheme, which requires returning citizens with felony convictions to pay all fines and fees before regaining the right to vote. Florida, however, wont tell them how much they owe, and the policy could disenfranchise nearly a million Floridians. Two weeks later, over another dissent by Sotomayor, SCOTUS stayed a lower court ruling that extended the deadline for collecting ballot initiative signatures and permitted the digital collection of signatures, as well as another lower court ruling extending the deadline in Oregon. The court also left in place a ruling that pushed Rhode Islands deadlines for receiving mail-in ballots (the state did not oppose the extension), over a dissent by Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Neil Gorsuch. States sought to extend these deadlines because of the increased turn to absentee voting in the midst of the pandemic. Because of changes to state voting laws, more Americans are eligible to vote absentee, and because of the risks of contracting the virus, more Americans may try to vote absentee. That increased demand on the Postal Service may make it difficult for people to process absentee ballots in a timely fashion, even for those who request and send in ballots early. And the Postal Service faces additional burdens because of the Trump administrations efforts to sabotage it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The court also released several orders and opinions related to states responses to the coronavirus. In August, by a 54 vote, it stayed a lower court decision that required an Orange County jail to adopt precautions to minimize the spread of the coronavirus. In July, the court, by a 54 vote, declined to stay a lower court decision that upheld Nevadas occupancy restrictions. Thomas, Alito, Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh would have enjoined the states restrictions. There was also the continued drumbeat of SCOTUS overruling lower courts in order to allow the Trump administration to put into effect legally dubious policies. By a 54 vote, the court lifted the lower court rulings that found the Trump administrations resumption of federal executions unlawful, thus allowing the administration to begin executions. The court granted other similar stays by similarly divisive margins as well. The court also declined to lift the stay it had issued on the ruling enjoining the presidents construction of the border wall. Breyer, Ginsburg, Sotomayor, and Kagan dissented from that ruling. Advertisement None of these monumental decisions were accompanied by any formal majority opinion explaining the legal reasoning behind them. The courts work over the summer is often less visible and receives less attention than its work during the term does. But the continued stream of decisions is shaping the upcoming election, the countrys response to the coronavirus, and important issues of constitutional governance. The Senate is now preparing for a heated confirmation battle for Amy Coney Barrett before the election. But its impossible to appreciate the stakes of the fight to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg without understanding the full scope of how the court operates and the breadth of issues it touches. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) Singapore Mon, October 5, 2020 16:45 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4931c90 2 News Singapore,tourism,cruise,coronavirus,COVID-19 Free Singapore hopes to start "cruises to nowhere" in a bid to revive its coronavirus-hit tourism industry, but critics warned Monday against a risky move that could spark COVID-19 outbreaks. The global cruise industry has largely ground to halt due to virus-related travel restrictions, and following a series of outbreaks on packed vessels. But the tourism board in Singapore, a key port and transport hub in Asia, is holding talks with cruise lines on putting on voyages that depart from and return to the city-state. Officials will put in place "appropriate measures that will enable cruises to resume in a safe manner," the board's cruise director Annie Chang told AFP. She did not say when the cruises might start. However Marcie Keever, oceans and vessels program director at Friends of the Earth, warned about "the potential to have COVID outbreaks" on cruise liners. Read also: Cruise ship with reported infections docks at Greek port "The cruise industry was a large contributor to COVID outbreaks in several ports around the world," she told AFP. She also warned about the environmental impact of restarting cruises. Last week, Singapore Airlines ditched a plan to launch "flights to nowhere" to boost its virus-hit finances following an outcry over the impact on the climate. Several cruise lines worldwide, including Britain's P&O Cruises and Norway's Hurtigruten, have canceled all sailings for now due to travel restrictions. Singapore saw virus outbreaks in crowded dormitories housing low-paid migrant workers, but they have now largely been brought under control. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has said that she went into self-isolation due to contact with a person who tested positive for coronavirus. "I've been informed that I participated in a meeting last Tuesday attended by a person who yesterday tested positive for COVID-19. In accordance with regulations in force, I'm therefore self-isolating until tomorrow morning. I've tested negative on Thursday & am tested again today," she wrote on her Twitter account. Ive been informed that I participated in a meeting last Tuesday attended by a person who yesterday tested positive for COVID-19. In accordance with regulations in force, Im therefore self-isolating until tomorrow morning. Ive tested negative on Thursday & am tested again today Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) October 5, 2020 The annual EU-Ukraine summit is to be held in Brussels on Tuesday, October 6. The European Commission president was expected to attend the event. The previous EU-Ukraine summit took place in July last year. Following the summit, agreements were signed on financial support for civil society, decentralization, anti-corruption measures and reforms. op Preferred Health Magazine (PHM) is a staple at waiting areas in practices across the US and Canada. Preferred Health Magazine has also drawn the attention of those outside the medical sphere that have a keen interest in healthy living, and have sought its articles and features as a means to keep abreast with the latest developments in the industry. Covering trending news stories and politics affecting the healthcare sector; how to and where to go articles, as well as holistic approaches, PHM further profiles some of the most sought-after physicians in the country. Preferred Health Magazine is also known for its exclusive celebrity features discussing health-and wellness-related matters. Celebrity covers have included, among others, America's favorite Nanny, Fran Drescher; funnyman Jamie Kennedy, and, on its March 2020 issue, the world-renowned spiritual teacher and Metahuman, Dr. Deepak Chopra. Their Fall edition out this week, features both legendary journalist, Larry King; and Patient Preferred's Top Surgeon, Sharona Ross. Beyond its online magazine format, PHM sponsors a podcast that expands on the matters commonly discussed in PHM issues, and offers commentary on health current events, like the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing world crisis. PHM has also been dabbling with the video interview format, releasing teasers and behind-the-scenes from its celebrity interviews, while it's soon planning to expand its video range with the addition of more health- and wellness-related content. "Preferred Health Magazine offers a unique voice in the health and wellness niche by breaking down what can often be complex terms and concepts into accessible pieces," said PHM media representative, Tara Calvaruso. She continued, "We are transforming the conversation around better living by turning the spotlight to those that try to embody its principles, and highlighting the most recent advancements that can, indeed, help elevate one's everyday life both mentally and physically." For more please follow Preferred Health Magazine on Facebook and Instagram @preferredhealthmagazine or go to www.Preferredhealthmagazine.com for cover interviews and articles. SOURCE Preferred Health Magazine Related Links http://www.Preferredhealthmagazine.com Mamata Banerjee upset after not being allowed to speak during PMs meet Missionaries of Charity itself requested SBI to freeze all bank accounts: Govt Mamata Banerjee on PM Modi's virtual hospital launch: We inaugurated it last year Proposal to change rules for central deputation of IAS officers affects states' administration: Mamata to PM Bengal Governor accuses Mamata of ignoring 'urgent 10:47pm message' India oi-Deepika S Kolkata, Oct 05: West Bengal governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday slammed the state administration after the home secretary and the DGP failed to turn up, disregarding his summon over the killing of a BJP leader in North 24 Parganas district. However, Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay met Dhankhar this morning. The governor said he has sent a message to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, expressing his desire to speak to her but there has been "no response". "Alarming nosediving law and order scenario@MamataOfficial Targeted political killings in spite of alert by Constitutional Head. Neither ACS Home nor DGP @WBPolice responded. "To CM at 10.47 PM ''Would like to speak to you urgently!'' Only silence that speaks volumes," Dhankhar said on Twitter after both the home secretary and the DGP failed to turn up to meet him at Raj Bhavan. Amit Shah likely to visit Bengal before Durga Puja BJP leader Manish Sukla was shot dead on Sunday by two bike-borne assailants near Titagarh in the Barrackpore subdivision of the district. JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News The BJP had called a 12-hour Barrackpore bandh in protest against the killing of its leader and demanded a CBI inquiry into it. Dhankhar had expressed concern over the law and order situation in the state. San Antonios Cornerstone Church said Sunday that its 80-year-old founding pastor, John Hagee, had tested positive for the coronavirus. Matt Hagee, lead pastor of Cornerstone, told the congregation his father had tested positive last week and that the disease had been caught early. He is receiving extremely good medical treatment, and I can tell you that he feels well enough to be upset with his doctors, the younger Hagee said, prompting laughter from the audience. He did let me know before I came to church today that he covets your prayers and he looks forward to seeing you again very soon back here at Cornerstone Church. Mayor Ron Nirenberg said, Its a terrible disease, and we wish the Hagee family well and a speedy recovery. Hagees followers greeted news of the pastors illness with an outpouring of prayer. Writing on Cornerstones Facebook page, Cindy Stone Mize wrote, Praying for Pastor Hagee and President Trump and our First Lady. May you be completely healed and restored to good health immediately!! A woman named Wendy Towlerton wrote on the Facebook page: Dear Heavenly Father, on bended knees I am praying for the President, First Lady and Pastor John Hagee. Please heal them today and wrap your loving arms around them. Hagee is founder of John Hagee Ministries, a megachurch on the North Side with more than 22,000 members. His sermons are broadcast in the U.S. and Canada. Hes an ardent supporter of Israel and founder and chairman of Christians United for Israel. A Cornerstone biography of Hagee says he has been in ministry for more than 60 years. He was born in Baytown, near Houston. In July, Hagee, his ministry and four parents of students attending his Cornerstone Christian Schools sued San Antonio and Bexar County officials, challenging an order to delay the start of in-person instruction in schools until after Labor Day to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The suit argued that the order by the Metropolitan Health District unconstitutionally infringes on the religious freedoms of private religious schools. The controversy became moot after Gov. Greg Abbott said local health agencies lacked authority to close classrooms in anticipation of an outbreak. In 2017, Hagee had a private meeting with Vice President Mike Pence in Washington to discuss the U.S.-Israel relationship. The visit included a stop in the Oval Office to say hello to President Donald Trump, a Hagee spokesman said at the time. In church on Sunday, Matt Hagee asked the congregation to pray for his father and Trump, as he indeed is struggling with this as well. In his prayer, the younger Hagee called on God to put his hand upon the physical body of our pastor and upon the physical body of our president, and that they would be healed in the mighty name of Jesus. No weapon formed should prosper. No virus has the authority over the name that is above every name, and it is that matchless name that we speak today, knowing that it conquers every sickness, every disease. Every issue and challenge in our life is defeated because Jesus Christ has given us victory. Sig Christenson covers the military and its impact in the San Antonio and Bexar County area. To read more from Sig, become a subscriber. sigc@express-news.net | Twitter: @saddamscribe Lucknow CBI court acquits all 32 accused in Babri Masjid case The special CBI court in Lucknow today acquitted all 32 accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case 28 years after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed charges against former deputy prime minister L K Advani and other BJP top leaders, including Murli Manohar Joshi, Uma Bharti and Kalyan Singh, Vinay Katiyar,Sadhvi Rithambara, as also Mahant Nritya Gopal Das of conspiring to demolish the controversial construction. The court held that the 1992 Babri Masjid demolition was not pre-planned and that the charges under which they were accused could not be proved in a court of law. Section 120B could not be established since there was no evidence that the accused sat together to plan the demolition. Section 153 dealing with inciting slogans and speeches could not be proven. Section 295 did not apply as no desecration of religious place took place since Muslims were not using the place to offer namaz for years. Section 149 relating to unlawful assembly did not apply since Section 144 was not in place when kar sevaks demolished the structure. Section 395 dealing with dacoity could not be established since no one saw the accused run away with inscriptions and other allegedly stolen artefacts, the court said in its verdict. Champat Rai, the general secretary of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust, which is in charge of constructing the Ram temple in Ayodhya, is also among the accused. All accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case have been acquitted by the special CBI court in Lucknow on Wednesday. The Central Bureau of Investigation has produced 351 witnesses and 600 documents as evidence before the court in connection with the case. Judge SK Yadav of the special CBI court had on 1 September ordered all 32 surviving accused to be present in the court during the hearing. However, L K Advani, Manohar Joshi, Uma Bharti, Kalyan Singh, Uma Bharti and Mahant Nritya Gopal Das were exempted from appearing personally in the court as they were either sick or too old to present themselves. justice has been done, said defence minister and senior BJP leader Rajnath Singh hailing the Lucknow court decision. I welcome the decision of the special court in Lucknow to not accuse all 32 people, including Shri LK Advani, Shri Kalyan Singh, Dr Murali Manohar Joshi, Umaji as conspirators in the Babri Masjid demolition case. With this verdict, it has been proved that justice has been upheld, though it might have been late, he added. Union minister of law and justice Ravi Shankar Prasad met LK Advain at the latters residence after he was acquitted, along with 31 others, in the Babri Masjid demolition case by the special CBI court in Lucknow. Security was tightened at the court premises ahead of the crucial hearing, with special forces accompanying the state police department to ensure law and order situation prevails. Wooden barricades have been erected in the vicinity of the court building, and movement of buses from the Kaisarbagh bus stand in Lucknow has been diverted. Vehicular movement on roads adjoining the court building has also been minimised. Pedestrians wearing face masks walk along a road in the Central Business District in Beijing on July 16, 2020. SINGAPORE Economies in Asia are set to benefit as China's shows a strong rebound from the coronavirus pandemic, says Invesco's David Chao. "China's economic recovery will lift surrounding Asian economies to a certain extent," Chao, global market strategist for Asia Pacific at the firm, told CNBC's "Street Signs Asia" on Monday. In particular, the focus is on "whether the Chinese consumer can quickly return back to normalized activity," Chao said. "I think that the Chinese will have much more impact ... on boosting other Asian economies." The strategist added, however, that the extent of recovery this time around is unlikely to be on par with 2010, when China's fiscal stimulus "grabbed other Asian economies by the boot straps." Chao's comments came after recent data showed China's manufacturing activity expanded in September, pointing to a continued recovery for the world's second-largest economy. In August, the country reported its first positive retail sales report for the year so far, though online sales growth for consumer goods and services in that month slowed. Chao said his firm has observed "record numbers" in restaurant bookings as well as Chinese households traveling during the ongoing Golden Week holidays. "I continue to expect Chinese equities to outperform developed market equities because China has been showing a continued V-shaped rebound, you know, from coronavirus," he said. Five Police Officers Forcibly Detain Woman During Arrest at Melbourne Beach Victoria Police became involved in an altercation with beach-goers during an arrest of a woman who was allegedly breaking the Victorians Chief Health Officers health orders imposed to stop the spread of the CCP virus. Authorities on patrol at Altona beach, Melbourne on Oct. 3 confronted a group of women and children who allegedly were not wearing masks. In a police statement to The Epoch Times, the Victorian police alleged members of the group became aggressive upon being questioned with one female refusing to provide her name and address. Due to this non-compliance, police had reason to arrest her under section 189 of the Public Health and Wellbeing Amendment (State of Emergency and Other Matters) Bill. Video captured of the incident showed that the womans children looked on while a crowd formed around the five officers detaining the woman on the ground. Another woman remonstrating with an officeridentified in the video clip as the first womans sisterwho allegedly was pregnant, was blocked and pushed away by an officer. Victoria Police noted, the first woman who was arrested was later identified and found to be in breach of the five-kilometre travel restriction. For violating the health directions, she was issued with three infringement notices and released while several others also received fines. Police will be conducting follow up investigations in relation to the incident and other activity at the beach yesterday to ensure any further breaches of the Chief Health Officer are appropriately dealt with, a statement said. Victoria Police will continue to proactively patrol public spaces and will not hesitate to fine those who clearly and blatantly breach the directions of the Chief Health Officer. According to daily COVID-19 crime statistics, 186 infringements were issued over the weekend. Due to sunny weather in Melbourne, several of these fines were for people travelling beyond 5km to go to the beach. The arrest on Altona beach comes as the Victorian government imposed a new fine against unlawful gatherings. Recently released crime statistics find COVID-19 penalties as the second-highest crime with over 6,000 Pubic Health and Safety offences being recorded. Premier Daniel Andrews has been asked about COVID-19 infringements more frequently in daily press conferences following many incidents circulating social media and protests. At a COVID update on Oct. 5, Andrews said he would prefer fines didnt exist but are needed to maintain order. There have been many more warnings over the journey that have been issued than fines, I would think, he said. I think the vast majority of Melbournians know that by following the rules, they will come off quicker. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 17:37:15|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close WINDHOEK, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Namibia is looking into the death of 16 buffaloes that were found floating in a river inside the Bwabwata National Park in the northeast Zambezi region, an official said on Monday. According to Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism spokesperson Romeo Muyunda, the carcasses of the dead animals were found in the Kwando river last Wednesday. "The buffaloes are suspected to have drowned, possibly fleeing from predators. The ministry has commissioned an investigation into the matter," Muyunda said. An outbreak of a bovine disease is also suspected, he said, adding that tissue and blood samples have been collected for analysis. Enditem Sorry! This content is not available in your region Sugar Land-based musician Bensen Kwan, 25, took first place at this years Philadelphia International Music Festival (PIMF) Virtual Concerto Competition. The grand prize is a full scholarship to Music House International, PIMFs immersive, 17-day summer program. Every year, aspiring musicians from around the world submit recorded auditions for a chance to attend PIMFs summer music program. Kwan won based on his performance of Keiko Abes Prism Rhapsody on the marimba. [Its] basically like a festival where many people just come together and play orchestral and chamber music, Kwan said. Ill get to play a solo recital as well. The program will take place next summer. Participants will get private lessons with PIMFs faculty as well as a chance to perform with the Philadelphia Orchestra. Kwan will be a featured performer on PIMFs You Tube channel. A graduate of Sugar Lands Stephen F Austin High School, Kwan credits his decision to become a musician to his high school teacher Brian Stevens. It wasn't that I already knew in high school that I wanted to be a professional musician, he said. I just really wanted music to be a part of my life. And I knew that it could also influence other people positively. Kwan went on to study Music Education at the University of Houston. The marimba, a large wooden percussion instrument similar to the xylophone, has gained popularity in recent years, Kwan said. Keiko Abe, the composer, is one of my biggest heroes because she was the first person in the world to really popularize it, said Kwan. The marimba is an up-and-coming solo instrument that people are, I think, taking more seriously. Theres only one or two graduate programs where you major in just marimba performance. Otherwise you learn all percussion. The youngest of three siblings, Kwan grew up in a musical family and started piano at age four. He attributes his marimba-playing to his older brother and sister, who encouraged him to choose band as an elective in middle school. My siblings recommended I do percussion because it was like, the coolest instrument out of all, Kwan said. At first, I didnt like it because it was something they forced me to do. But eventually I really started to love it and majored in it. Kwan said he spent up to six hours practicing the marimba before the lockdown. He has won numerous awards and accolades, having traveled to Germany last year to study at the Hochschule fur Musik und Theater Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy. I got to see the music culture there [Germany]-- widely supported by the public and also the government and organizations, he said. I think it would benefit everyone, if we had more music, supported by everyone and more performances. In addition to piano and marimba, Kwan is also passionate about his steelpan, which, he explained with a smile, is transportable unlike the marimba. It comes from Trinidad and is such a lovely instrument, he said. I love my steelpan. Kwan had the following advice for young musicians: Focus on being a better person and the music will follow, he said. Theres enough selfish musicians out there. By PTI COLOMBO: The Supreme Court in Sri Lanka on Monday concluded the hearing on the petitions filed against the government's proposed 20th Amendment to the Constitution that aims to bolster the powers of the president. After a submission from the Attorney General on the fourth day of the hearing, the five-member bench of the apex court asked the petitioners to make written submissions if any by 3 pm on Tuesday. A total of 39 petitions have been filed in the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutionality of the controversial bill. The government on September 2 gazetted 20A, the new proposed legislation that would replace the 19th Amendment introduced in 2015 that curtailed the powers of the president and strengthened the role of Parliament. The opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and the Tamil National Alliance are among the groups that filed petitions in court against it. There were also seven intervening petitions, including one from the ruling SLPP. A five-member Supreme Court bench chaired by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya was appointed to consider the petitions. The initial hearing began on September 29 and the apex court concluded the case on Monday. The apex court has three weeks from September 22 to determine if the proposed amendment would be consistent or ultra virus of the Constitution. During the hearings last week, Attorney General Dappula de Livera had informed the Supreme Court that amendments will be introduced during the committee stage debate in Parliament on the draft 20th Amendment. The 39 petitions seek court to issue an order that a national referendum would be needed to amend the Constitution. All petitions have taken the common ground that the 20A if enacted would impinge on the fundamental rights of the citizens. The SJB petition has argued that the amendment could only become law if it would be passed with two thirds majority in Parliament and if approved in a referendum. The 20A is meant to annul the 19A which was seen as a pro-democracy, good governance amendment which called for checks and balances in the presidential system while making Parliament more powerful. The 19A was seen as the most progressive pro-democracy reformist move since Sri Lanka came to be governed under the all-powerful executive presidency in 1978. The 20th Amendment proposes to restore full legal immunity to the President, removing the provisions made in the 19A to take legal action against the President. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa was elected with a mandate to abolish the 19A. During the last November's presidential elections and last month's parliamentary elections, Rajapaksa said that the 19A had made governance difficult as it created a rift between the executive president and prime minister. President Rajapaksa said that he had obtained public approval at two successive elections to annul it and make his position powerful going back to the pre-19A period between 1978 and 2015. The 20A ignited some protests from within the ranks of the ruling SLPP. The government chose to allay their fears by saying that amendments would be moved at the committee stage of the debate. The government sources said the amendment would be duly enacted in Parliament before November 17 when the 2021 Budget is scheduled to be presented. Weather Source is pleased to announce it has partnered with Datarade, the fastest-growing global e-commerce platform for commercial datasets. Datarades tens of thousands of data buyers from every industry can now effortlessly discover, compare, and gain access to Weather Source data products. Weather Source offers a curated continuum of historical, present, forecast, and climatology weather data covering every land mass in the world and up to 200 miles offshore. Weather Sources historical data stretches back to the year 2000 and its forecast data includes a 15-day outlook with an enhanced view out 42 days. The total Weather Source dataset is petabyte-scale and growing. Weather Source is very excited to become part of the Datarade community and we look forward to providing a single source of truth for weather and climate information to the analytics-savvy Datarade customers, said Craig Stelmach, Sr. Vice President of Business Development and Sales at Weather Source. Weather Source collects its data from a wide variety of inputs, including airport observation stations, radars, satellites, and IoT-enabled sensors. The company has perfected its data quality processes to ensure your data is error-free, gap-free, and instantly usable. Weather Source ingests data from thousands of U.S. and international inputs, unifies the data under its patent-pending OnPoint Platform, and resolves issues related to geography, topography, and elevation to deliver accurate predictions at any point on Earth. Were thrilled to have Weather Source onboard our global data commerce platform. Weather Sources unique weather data and geo-intelligence product offering is meeting a growing demand for high-volume, hyper-local weather datasets and APIs, said Richard Hoffmann, Co-Founder and CCO of Datarade. Weather Sources hyper-local solutions can be tailored to the points of interest most relevant to your business, from lat/lon coordinates to geographically bounded areas such as ZIP/Postal Code, designated market area (DMA), metropolitan statistical area (MSA), Census tract/block, county, and more. Weather data can reveal meaningful observations for a variety of industries. For example: retail and food service companies can analyze weathers effects on product sales and footfall traffic; finance organizations can optimize trade signals; energy providers can anticipate potential changes in demand; and much more. Nearly every business has some degree of weather sensitivity and Weather Source has the tools and expertise to help organizations harness Mother Nature to their advantage. About Weather Source Weather Source empowers organizations to leverage weather and climate technologies for business intelligence. Our mission is to make hyper-local weather and climate data accessible around the globe and across industries. Our passion is working with companies to leverage weather and climate data to reduce waste, increase ROI, fine-tune logistics, optimize marketing, and improve resource planning. About Datarade Datarade is the worlds fastest-growing e-commerce platform for data. With a persistent focus on crafting the ultimate data shopping experience, Datarade has helped thousands of data buyers find the right data for their business, effortlessly. More than 2,000 data providers across 300+ data categories are already listed on Datarade, enabling organizations across industries to connect with trusted providers and access the best datasets and APIs. Datarade was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in Berlin, Germany. JSW Paints, part of the US$ 12 billion JSW Group, is partnering with Delhi Capitals (DC) for their upcoming match against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). To showcase this association, the Delhi Capitals players will don a specially designed JSW Paints branded jersey on October 5th, the day of the DC vs RCB match. The IPL is one of Indias biggest sporting extravaganzas, with massive TV viewership and digital following. This unique association will address JSW Paints visibility goals as it scales up its business in India. Mr. Parth Jindal, Managing Director of JSW Paints said, The JSW Group sees this as a tremendous opportunity to showcase our brand JSW Paints, that celebrates the diverse colours of our country and encourages India to #EmbraceEveryColour. The association is aligned with the overall brand narrative which is all about unity and inclusivity. This will be supported with our current campaign Har Rang Har Kisi Ka featuring Alia Bhatt and Ayushmann Khurrana. Mr Dhiraj Malhotra, CEO of Delhi Capitals said, The JSW Group has played a crucial role in the development of Indian sports over the last few years. Our team will proudly don the JSW Paints jersey for the game against RCB not only in support of the Groups tremendous contribution towards Indian sports, but also to endorse the message of unity. JSW Paints has always aimed at creating beautiful and thoughtful experiences for its customers. JSW Paints Any Colour One Price' proposition that offers 1808 colours at the same price is an industry-first offering that has disrupted the entire paints market. Recently, the company also signed Bollywood actors Ms. Alia Bhatt and Mr. Ayushmann Khurrana as its brand ambassadors for their campaign, Har Rang Har Kisi Ka to celebrate the diverse colours of India and encourage Indians to #EmbraceEveryColour. The TVC will also be aired during the DC vs RCB match on October 5th, 2020. Transport for London, the British capital's transport regulator, has banned the Indian taxi-hailing app Ola. Ola, backed by Japanese technology fund Softbank, started operating in London only in February this year after starting its UK operations in Cardiff, Wales, in 2018. The action comes in the wake of several failings including the case of at least 1,000 trips made by drivers who did not have the required licence. Transport for London said Ola failed to notify the regulator about the violations as soon as it came to know of them. "Through our investigations we discovered that flaws in Ola's operating model have led to the use of unlicensed drivers and vehicles in more than 1,000 passenger trips, which may have put passenger safety at risk," Transport for London director of licensing Helen Chapman said in a statement. Ola has been told that its licence will not be renewed. Ola said it would appeal the decision and as appeal rules suggest, it can operate for the next 21 days in which it must file an appeal. Ola operates in major cities in Britain including Birmingham, Cardiff and Liverpool has in its pool at least 25,000 drivers. Ola has acknowledged the regulatory violations in London and has promised to fix the gaps, reiterating that the company is fit to serve. Ola UK managing director Marc Rozendal said, "We have been working with Transport for London during the review period and have sought to provide assurances and address the issues raised in an open and transparent manner. Ola will take the opportunity to appeal this decision and in doing so, our riders and drivers can rest assured that we will continue to operate as normal, providing safe and reliable mobility for London." Advantage Uber London has been the battleground for app-based taxi services with Ola challenging the established giant Uber this year. Uber won a long legal battle with Transport for London which had withdrawn its licence over similar public safety concerns. A judge overturned the ban only last month and granted it a 18-month licence to operate in London. The problem with Uber was the same: unlicensed drivers making trips. Uber had also failed to notify the regulator about the transgressions. London is Uber's largest market in Europe and has 45,000 drivers in its pool. Uber had faced the traditionally powerful taxi unions to acquire a licence to operate which has been cancelled twice by now. This is the third time a licence has been granted after Transport of London and Uber agreed to a formula. Presidente del Consejo de Ministros: El Peru sigue optimizando su respuesta hospitalaria, tratamiento oportuno e insistiendo en las normas de cuidado porque continuamos luchando contra la pandemia, que aunque esta disminuyendo aun no ha terminado. pic.twitter.com/qW6LETKrFQ WASHINGTON - The assertion by President Donald Trump's doctors that he could be discharged from the hospital as early as Monday astonished outside infectious-disease experts, who said he remains in a dangerous period of vulnerability when some COVID-19 patients decline precipitously and require urgent intervention. During a midday briefing Sunday on the president's medical condition and treatment, White House physician Sean Conley and his team twice referred to planning to release Trump as early as the next day "if he continues to look and feel as well as he does today." The talk of the president's release from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center came as Conley and two other physicians treating Trump gave an upbeat but incomplete characterization of his condition. Outside doctors said they were mystified by what they said was an inconsistent portrayal of the president's illness as relatively mild despite the aggressive mix of treatments he is getting. The president's medical team was at times cryptic: Asked whether CT scans showed any signs of pneumonia or lung damage, Conley replied, "Yeah, so we're tracking all of that. There's some expected findings, but nothing of any major clinical concern." He declined to elaborate. At another point, Sean Dooley, a pulmonary critical care doctor, said the president's "cardiac, liver and kidney function demonstrates continued normal findings, or improving findings." He did not disclose which of those had been subpar. "My impression is they are telling us everything that is of good news and limiting everything that is not perfect," said Rochelle Walensky, chief of infectious diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital. Robert Wachter, chairman of the University of California at San Francisco's department of medicine, said any patient of his with Trump's symptoms and treatment who wanted to be discharged from the hospital three days after their admission would need to sign out against doctors' orders because it would be so ill-advised. "For someone sick enough to have required remdesivir and dexamethasone, I can't think of a situation in which a patient would be OK to leave on Day 3, even with the White House's medical capacity," Wachter said. "Absolutely not," William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University's medical school, said of the idea of sending Trump back to the White House on Monday. "I will bet dollars to doughnuts it's the president and his political aides who are talking about discharge, not his doctors," Schaffner added. Medical consensus has emerged that covid-19 patients are especially vulnerable for a period of a week to 10 days after their first symptoms. Some patients who seem relatively healthy suddenly deteriorate, either because of the virus itself or an excessive immune response that can cause damage to several organs, including the heart. A multitude of possible cardiac complications have also been associated with covid-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus; the most prominent involves a hardening of the walls of the heart that makes it difficult to pump blood and can lead to heart failure. "People can be doing OK, but it can get a rocky very quickly," said Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Health Security and an infectious-disease specialist at the University of Pittsburgh. Underscoring the concerns is the fact that Trump may be the first patient - he is certainly among the first - to receive an unusual combination of three strong treatments, with a handful of supplements and an over-the-counter drug sprinkled in. "He's gotten kitchen-sink therapy," said Walensky, of Massachusetts General. She noted that when dexamethasone was tested in clinical trials this year, none of the patients were also given the experimental antibody cocktail Trump is receiving. Several doctors expressed worry that there is no data indicating how these treatments might react with one another, especially in an overweight 74-year-old man with a mild heart condition who is in the high-risk group for severe coronavirus disease. The list of treatments the president is receiving includes a five-day regimen of the antiviral remdesivir; monoclonal antibodies, an experimental treatment still in clinical trials; and dexamethasone, a steroid found to help patients with advanced respiratory distress. Trump is also taking two unproven supplements (vitamin D and zinc) and an over-the-counter drug (famotidine, the active ingredient in heart burn medication Pepcid.) The president has personally touted the benefits of zinc - in combination with hydroxychloroquine - for the coronavirus, and his administration funded trials of famotidine despite allegations of conflicts of interest. "All of these are data-free zones. We just don't know," Walensky said. She noted the mix of treatments - especially the use of a steroid usually reserved for coronavirus patients whose immune systems are over-functioning - is inconsistent with the characterization by Trump's physicians that he is getting better. Lewis Kaplan, a critical care doctor at the University of Pennsylvania and the Veteran's Administration, said this type of untested combination therapy is typically only applied as a desperate measure - when a patient is seriously ill and probably in the intensive care unit. On the other hand, he said, giving this cocktail to a sitting head of state as a preventive measure as a way to reduce the risk of a more severe course could be construed as "reasonable." "And we just don't know which one reflects reality," Kaplan said. The use of monoclonal antibodies is extremely limited since the treatment is still in late-stage trials so patients would not typically take it in combination with remdesivir. Remdesivir, the Gilead Sciences drug authorized for emergency use in May, is more widely available, but many hospitals reserve it only for the sickest patients. Joshua Barocas, an infectious-disease specialist at the Boston University school of medicine, said the science makes sense, though he does not know of a case in which a patient received both those treatments at the same time. "The monoclonal antibodies neutralize the virus, and the remdesivir stops the viral replication," he explained. Dexamethasone is recommended only in patients who are extremely ill, according to many guidelines, but a number of hospitals routinely give the drug to any patient who requires supplemental oxygen, if only for a few hours. A recent study found it tends to reduce deaths from the virus, but nearly a quarter of infected patients getting it with supplemental oxygen - as Trump has - still died. Steroids in high doses and over long periods of time also can lead to serious changes in mental status that include delirium, hallucinations and confusion. Barocas said that at the dose typically used for the coronavirus, this is unlikely to be an issue and White House physicians are probably monitoring the president closely. Nominate your favorite people and places now Its the 25th anniversary of our Best of the Capital Region readers survey. Nominate your favorite people, places and businesses between Jan. 21 and Feb. 4. "It's not outside the range of possibilities that he could have that adverse event," Barocas said. Another drug the president is taking, famotidine, remains controversial. The Trump administration earlier this year granted a $21 million emergency contract to researchers to try famotidine on ill patients despite a whistleblower complaint that it was rushed through by the Department of Health and Human Services without the necessary scientific oversight. According to an investigation by The Associated Press, internal emails show that a top Food and Drug Administration official expressed concerns that the daily injections, which are experimental, pushed safety "to the limits." "There's no evidence at this point to suggest vitamin D or zinc do anything for or against covid. And I haven't seen any good evidence about famotidine," Barocas said. "I really don't want these other medications to become the next hydroxychloroquine," he added, referring to Trump's touting of the anti-malarial drug without evidence of its effectiveness. The drug was subsequently found to offer no benefits to covid-19 patients. Hydroxychloroquine is not on the list of medications his doctors said Trump is taking at Walter Reed. Another treatment missing from Trump's regimen is a blood thinner given as a standard practice these days to any hospitalized patient with covid-19 to reduce the risk of clots. In the spring, many doctors were surprised to find that microclots that appear in the lungs and heart appeared to be killing some patients. Doctors speculated that the president may have declined the treatment after what happened to his younger brother, Robert, who died in August due to brain bleeds. He had been taking blood thinners. Experts acknowledged that discharge from the hospital for a sitting president would be different than for a normal person and would not necessarily indicate the same level of stability in his illness. Hospitals, they noted, typically do not discharge patients who are on IV medications, and Trump is in the middle of a five-day course of remdesivir that is given intravenously. But a team of specialists could continue to monitor him at the White House and would probably have access to heart monitors, oxygen tanks, and even a "crash cart," which contains materials to resuscitate a patient should he need that. The president would also have his regular fleet of helicopters and other transportation at his disposal to get him to the hospital quickly if needed. But Barocas said the decision whether to discharge the president should not just be about his condition but also about the White House staff, including cooks, butlers, housekeepers and other personnel, who work in the buildings. When it comes to infectious diseases such as covid-19, he said, "we want to make sure we have a place for someone that is not only safe for them - but safe for them to isolate so they won't infect other people." "My concern is," he said. "What are the protections for the people who will have to care for this elderly man who probably won't isolate and won't wear a mask?" A shouting match erupted outside a luxury hotel-turned-homeless shelter on Manhattan's Upper West Side as protesters supporting the 300 homeless men clashed with neighborhood residents demanding they be relocated. The Lucerne Hotel has been steeped in controversy for weeks since New York City moved roughly 300 homeless men into its empty rooms in an effort to stem the spread of coronavirus. The scheme polarized the community as some residents have complained that the decision brought rampant drug use and lewd displays to their streets. Last week the city's Department of Homeless Services announced that the men would be transferred to another hotel near Wall Street - drawing fierce opposition from the homeless advocates. Dozens of demonstrators gathered outside the Lucerne on Sunday to show their support for the homeless living there when members of the opposing group arrived to shout them down. A shouting match erupted outside the Lucerne Hotel on Manhattan's Upper West Side on Sunday as homeless advocates clashed with neighborhood residents demanding that the hotel no longer be used as a shelter The Lucerne Hotel has been steeped in controversy for weeks since New York City moved roughly 300 homeless men into its empty rooms in an effort to stem the spread of coronavirus. Homeless advocates gathered outside the building on Sunday to show support (pictured) A woman is seen confronting city Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and another supporter of the homeless during Sunday's tense demonstration A critic demanding that the homeless be removed from the Lucerne holds a sign that reads: 'This country needs a dept of common sense' during Sunday's demonstration The supporters, led by city Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, New York State Assemblymember Linda B Rosenthal and the UWS Open Hearts initiative, convened at the hotel on West 79th Street to wrap a blue 'ribbon of love' around the building. Many held signs with messages of kindness, such as 'Love your neighbor' and 'Homelessness is not a crime'. As Williams addressed the crowd he was interrupted by opponents with their own signs bearing phrases including 'We want safe streets' and 'This country needs a dept of common sense'. Addressing Williams directly, one woman said that the men were placed in the hotel under an executive order by Mayor Bill de Blasio that was supposed to be temporary, suggesting that they had overstayed their welcome. 'The people that are living here need help and support,' the woman said. 'Where should they go?' Williams asked. 'They could have gone to the Javits Center,' the woman replied, prompting another supporter to question: 'Why don't you go somewhere?' That was one of several heated exchanges that unfolded over the course of the gathering - one of many staged outside the hotel in the past month. 'I believe people to be sincere when they say they actually care about the people. They just don't want them in the site that they were placed,' Williams said on Sunday. 'I'm sorry, that is actually the definition of NIMBYism.' 'NIMBY' stands for 'Not In My Backyard'. Larry Thomas, a 59-year-old who has been living at the Lucerne shelter since July after getting out of prison, also spoke to the crowd. 'I want to live like you all,' Thomas said. 'If I can even diffuse the situation, I'm on the front lines to diffuse it. Let's get together and help each other. Because in a way that's all we got, is us.' The supporters, led by city Public Advocate Jumaane Williams (second left), New York State Assemblymember Linda B Rosenthal (center) and the UWS Open Hearts initiative, convened at the hotel on West 79th Street to wrap a blue 'ribbon of love' around the building As Williams (pictured) addressed the crowd he was interrupted by opponents who sought to explain why the Lucerne should no longer be used as a shelter Supporters held signs with messages of kindness, including 'Homelessness is not a crime!' A masked woman holds a sign telling homeless Lucerne residents: 'You matter' Supporters also wrote messages of solidarity on stars hung on scaffolding outside the hotel Over the past month Mayor de Blasio has gone back and forth about how to address backlash surrounding his decision to place some 13,000 of the city's homeless population in hotels that were left empty as the coronavirus crisis disrupted tourism. The move was meant to protect the homeless people, many of whom suffer from mental illness and addiction, during the pandemic. But many residents living near hotels-turned-shelters voiced outrage over the initiative, saying that the growing homeless populations diminished their security and quality of life. The Upper West Side emerged as a flashpoint of the debate as some members of the largely affluent community complained that drug use, drug deals and public urination had become a common sights on their streets. The city's Department of Homeless Services (DHS) responded to the outrage by announcing plans to move the men to Midtown's Harmonia Hotel in mid-September. But that plan was scrapped as homeless advocates decried the fact that the move would displace another group of disabled homeless people already living there. Then on September 25, DHS unveiled a new plan to move the men to a permanent shelter at the Radisson Hotel in the Financial District. The West Side Community Organization (WSCO) - which has led the calls to relocate the homeless - applauded the new DHS plan while the UWS Open Hearts initiative called the displacement a form of 'segregation'. On Friday, the DHS once again delayed the plans to relocate the Lucerne men, saying that they won't be transferred downtown until October 19. New York City's Department of Homeless Services announced last month that roughly 300 people living at a makeshift shelter in the Lucerne Hotel will be moved to a Radisson hotel in the Financial District (pictured) after Upper West Side residents complained The Upper West Side emerged as a flashpoint of the debate over NYC's homeless initiative as some members of the largely affluent community complained that drug use, drug deals and public urination had become a common sights on their streets A group of presumably homeless people pass around a bottle of alcohol out in the open at the corner of W 79th Street and Broadway in the Upper West Side on September 3 amid outrage from locals who said Mayor Bill de Blasio's move to house homeless in hotels had led to their streets being overrun by drug use and public lewdness A homeless man sleeps on a chair at the corner of W 80th Street and Broadway in the Upper West Side on September 3 Meanwhile, the mayor's office is fielding new criticism from residents of the Financial District who say they felt blindsided by the relocation of homeless to their area. Critics formed a Facebook group called 'Downtown NYCers for Safe Streets' shortly after the DHS announced its plan to convert the Radisson on William Street into the area's first-ever traditional shelter. 'We believe that our residents should have been notified in advance of this possibility and now that it has been agreed to without our knowledge, we need to make our voices heard,' the page description reads. One post on the page provides members with a template to raise their concerns with city leaders. The template highlights a number of schools and neighborhoods in the area as an argument for why it isn't a good fit for the shelter. 'I am extremely concerned for the safety and welfare of my family and for my community given the reports coming out of the Lucerne hotel this past summer,' the template states. 'Please don't permit the move on October 5. At the very least the move should be delayed to give the local community, which is already dealing with an increase in crime and unstable people in the street and in the subway, due notice. 'Many people in the neighborhood are organizing and will be taking this to the press and to court, if necessary.' Another post on the page suggests that the group should hire the same lawyer who helped another group on the Upper West Side - the West Side Community Organization - in their fight to remove people from the Lucerne. The post asks members whether they would be interested in pooling funds to retain services from the lawyer, Randy Mastro. Two Financial District residents voiced their concerns in letters to the editor of the Tribeca Tribune as well. 'We FiDi mothers have been the pioneers in raising families in what was once a primarily business/tourist destination. We will not stand quietly while the administration imposes such a blatantly dangerous situation on our families,' a woman named Vicki Raikes wrote. 'I have great compassion for the homeless but moving them in a few blocks from my son where drug use was clear is not appropriate,' another woman, who identified herself as 'A FiDi Mom', wrote. 'These human beings deserve help not a hotel room with no medical and no counseling. And residents deserve to raise their kids without fear of witnessing drug use and homeless individuals who are ill screaming day and night (oh yes 4am) yelling obscenities on every corner. 'They are ill, they need help not a hotel.' Cooler Screens, a Chicago, IL-based in-store digital media platform, closed an over $80m Series C funding round. Backers included Verizon Ventures, Microsofts venture fund M12, GreatPoint Ventures, and a number of other preeminent strategic and financial investors. Silicon Valley Bank provided debt financing. The company intends to use the funds for growth and national expansion, advance rollouts at several leading retailers, and develop its technology platform including its contextual advertising and digital merchandising capabilities. Founded in 2018 and led by CEO Arsen Avakia, Cooler Screens has developed a patented in-store digital merchandising and media platform that enables consumers to experience in-store what they want to shop online. Earlier this year, the company announced Walgreens will expand its platform into 2,500 stores across the U.S. The expansion, which is the largest installation of Cooler Screens technology thus far, is expected to reach over 75 million consumers monthly, including 2.5 million in-store consumers on a daily basis at Walgreens alone. Cooler Screens is also working with a number of leaders in the grocery and convenience store industry, including Kroger and GetGo, to bring a digitally enhanced shopping experience to the cooler aisle. FinSMEs 05/10/2020 A day after walking out of the NDA targeting Bihar chief minister, Lok Janshakti Party president Chirag Paswan said that he wants a BJP-led government in the state as he no longer trusts Nitish Kumar. Ive said repeatedly that I want to have a BJP led government in my state because I dont trust the Chief Minister anymore. I really want a true double engine government in Bihar," Paswan told News18 in an interview. The LJP president also appealed to people against voting for Kumars JD(U) and claimed that an alliance of his party and the BJP will come to power in the state after the Assembly polls. In an open letter, Paswan told the voters of Bihar that a vote for the Janata Dal (United) will force the migration of their children tomorrow as he sought their support for his party candidates in the three-phase poll starting October 28. The LJP on Sunday decided to put up its candidates against the JD(U) citing ideological differences" with the party to assert that it will not accept Kumars leadership of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is the principal member of the NDA and it has already announced Kumar as the leader of the bloc in the state. This is the most decisive moment in the history of the state of Bihar. It is a question of life and death of the 12 crore people of the state and we have no time to lose. The road ahead is not easy for the LJP but we will fight and win too," Paswan said. All LJP MLAs will work under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he added. The 37-year-old leader also made a reference to his ailing father, Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, who has undergone a heart surgery at a private hospital in Delhi and is expected to remain hospitalised for some time. He spoke of his Bihar first, Bihari first" vision document and said his father would be proud that his son has stuck to the issue he had raised through it. Citing his partys differences with the JD(U), Paswan said be it the growing bureaucracy in Bihar, the ruling partys treatment of its allies or its agenda, peoples grievances are not being addresses either by the officials or the chief minister. A five-month-old baby has died after the child's pram rolled into the road and was hit by a van in New Zealand. Van driver Sudhir Saksena said he was travelling home to get some work tools in northern Auckland around 9am Monday when the pram 'came out of nowhere'. Saksena hit the brakes but was unable to stop in time, as witnesses said the pram's basket was thrown 50ft from the force of the impact. The baby was rushed to hospital in critical condition, but died several hours later. Saksena said the 'panicked' mother admitted that she had forgotten to put the pram's brake on, causing it to roll down a hill and into the road. A five-month-old baby has died after a pram the child was in rolled off a pavement in Auckland (left), crossed a lane of traffic (centre) and was then hit by a van coming uphill (right lane) Speaking to the New Zealand Herald, he said: 'I didn't know what to do. I went to work but I couldn't do anything, so I just went home. 'I can't sleep, I can't drive, I can't do anything. I can't believe it. I really feel sorry for the baby and the family. It's a nightmare.' Speaking about the moments after the collision, he added: 'The mother was in shock ... then she asked what happened and she started to cry.' Saksena said he was driving uphill, on the opposite side of the road to the mother's house, between 12mph and 20mph when the pram rolled out into the street. A witness, Kevin Walker, said the pram rolled through a narrow gap between two cars in the near-side lane, before heading into the opposite lane. It was there that Saksena's van hit it, sending the basket flying. Walker described the crash as 'an absolute freak accident', adding: 'You could probably have that happen 100 times and it would not have hit anything.' A third witness, named only as Ali, said the body of the pram had to be pulled out of the front of the van, and left a large dent behind. Meanwhile the basket was left with scrapes on it. He added that the baby must have been buckled in, since the infant stayed inside the basket. A St John Ambulance spokesman said the baby was taken to Starship Childrens Hospital, a 12-minute drive away, in a critical condition. Despite medic's best efforts, the child was pronounced dead at 4pm. Police say the serious crash unit is investigating the accident, and everyone involved is being given support. The case will also be forwarded to the coroner. New Delhi: Marking the celebration of Wildlife Week 2020, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar on Monday (October 5, 2020) congratulated the country for the diverse wildlife and said that the government is working towards the up gradation and development of 160 zoos in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) across the country to encourage interaction between wildlife and humans, and help people observe and understand wildlife behaviour more closely. The Union Minister informed that policy for up-gradation and development of all the zoos in the country is underway and will be taken up during the upcoming budget. Javadekar further added that the state governments, corporations, businesses and people will all be key elements of the plan. It will help give an enhanced experience to the visitors especially the students and children and the future generation in order to nurture the connection between wildlife, nature and humans. On the occasion, Javadekar also launched a report of the CZA-TERI titled Economic valuation of ecosystem services, National Zoological Park, New Delhi". The report highlights the importance of habitats such as zoos to human wellbeing and the need for replication across India. The study first of its kind in India and perhaps the entire World pegs the total annual economic value of the ecosystem services (biodiversity conservation, employment generation, carbon sequestration, education and research, recreational and cultural) at around Rs 423 crore (2019-20) whereas, the total value of the one-time cost of services such as carbon storage and land value provided by the zoo is estimated to be around Rs 55,000 crore. (e-report) The Minister also gave away the CZA-Prani Mitra awards to encourage the zoo officers and staff towards working for captive animal management and welfare. The awards were given in four categories - the Outstanding Director / Curator, Outstanding Veterinarian, Outstanding Biologist /Educationist, Outstanding Biologist /Educationist and Outstanding Animal keeper. Meet the Prani Mitra Awardees of this year, who have shown exemplary determination in their duty and compassion towards zoo animals. Congratulations, people like you keep the wheels of our Zoos running smoothly, even through difficult times.#wildlifeweek2020 pic.twitter.com/QSL4SXxTzP Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) October 5, 2020 The Minister, during the virtual interaction, also addressed questions of school children from across the country, concerning wildlife protection and human-wildlife interaction. He stated that we must all work together to protect the valuable wildlife of the country. CZA which was established to oversee the functioning of the Indian zoos and complement the wildlife conservation strategies through ex-situ measures, as on today recognizes around 160 zoo and rescue centres that enforce global standards in animal housing and welfare. Over 567 captive animal species (with 114 species under endangered category) with overall 56481 individual animals are currently housed in Indian zoos. Sanjay Kumar, DG (Forest) & Special Secretary, Ministry of Environment Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC); Soumitra Dasgupta, ADG (Wildlife), SP Yadav, ADG (Project Tiger) and Member Secretary CZA and other senior officers of MoEF & CC also participated in the event. Live TV She's known for making bold fashion statements for her daily commutes to the radio studio. And Ashley Roberts truly lit up the grey streets of London on Monday, as she decked herself out in a clashing silk ensemble. The Pussycat Doll, 39, wore a billowy pink top with chic buttoned sleeves and a scrunched detail below the right shoulder. Wow! Ashley Roberts truly lit up the grey streets of London on Monday as she headed home from her radio show in a pink and green satin ensemble Ashley then donned a pair of bright emerald green trousers that clashed with her top to create a riot of colour on the drab rainy day. Not yet finished with her radiant get-up, the Don't Cha hitmaker opted for a set of pointed turquoise high heels for footwear. Ashley completed her look with an intriguingly-designed purple and orange handbag, whose yellow handle detail completed her rainbow-inspired outfit. The American beauty wore her flaxen tresses loose, while minimal make-up highlighted her natural good looks. Clashing: The Pussycat Doll donned a pair of bright emerald trousers that clashed with her pink silk top Elegant: Ashley still looked her usual chic self while sporting the jewel tones Intriguing: The Don't Cha hitmaker stored her essentials in an unusual orange bag held together with purple wiring The media personality recently revealed she is open to the idea of adopting a child in the future. Speaking in an interview with Fabulous magazine in July, she said: 'I'm definitely open to the idea of adoption. 'You just never know what the future is going to bring and the most important thing is to be happy and, whether my body naturally has kids or not, we'll see what life brings. I'm definitely open to that.' Confident: The media personality flashed a smile as she marched along the street Contented: Ashley recently revealed she is happy being single, saying she is 'pretty independent' The blonde also reflected on dating following her split from Italian Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice, 30. They called time on their year-long romance in January after meeting during Ashley's stint on the BBC One dance competition in late 2018. The TV star said: 'I'm good on my own, though. I'm pretty independent. It's nice to have that connection with someone, but at the moment lockdown is still [effectively] here, so "me" is where it is.' Seinfeld star Julia Louis-Dreyfus is one of the most-award winning TV actresses in history. Shes won a whopping 11 Emmys for her roles in Seinfeld, The New Adventures of Old Christine, and Veep. In addition to racking up trophies and not backing away from sharing her political views her lengthy runs on all three have made her millions. But it turns out, the Saturday Night Live alum was already worth millions before she had her first acting audition. Seinfeld star Julia Louis-Dreyfus | Mark Davis/Getty Images The Veep cast is reuniting for Joe Biden fundraiser According to Variety, Louis-Dreyfus and her co-stars from the HBO comedy series Veep are reuniting. One year after going off the air, Louis-Dreyfus announced that the cast will have a virtual reunion on October 4. The special will feature Louis-Dreyfus returning as Selina Meyer. Joining her will be her former co-stars Anna Chlumsky, Tony Hale, Sam Richardson, Reid Scott, Tim Simons, Clea Duvall, and Matt Walsh. Veep executive producer David Mandel will serve as the moderator, and there will also be some surprise guests. The special will only be live-streamed once at 6 p.m. CST on October 4. And, it will be a fundraiser for the Democratic Party of Wisconsin in support of former real-life veep Joe Biden. All roads to the White House go through the great state of Wisconsin. Trump cant win re-election if he doesnt win Wisconsin, Louis-Dreyfus said in the announcement video. So, the democratic party of Wisconsin has built an unprecedented voter mobilization operation, and they need resources in these final days to deliver Wisconsin to vice president Joe Biden and Senator Harris. The Seinfeld star has found success in both her career and personal life As Nicki Swift points out, Louis-Dreyfus career has been nothing short of phenomenal. In 1982 at the age of 21, she became the youngest female cast member ever on Saturday Night Live. It was during her three-season run on SNL that she met Larry David. David, of course, was the co-creator of Seinfeld. After they shot the pilot, David realized he needed a strong female character in the show. He immediately called up Louis-Dreyfus, and everyone knows what happened next. RELATED: Seinfeld: Jason Alexander Explains Why the Series Ended After 9 Seasons There Was Nothing New We Could Do In addition to her starring roles, Louis-Dreyfus IMDb credits also include Arrested Development and Curb Your Enthusiasm. But Louis-Dreyfus has not just had a successful career, she also has a successful marriage. She met her husband Brad Hall when they were both attending Northwestern University. They married in 1987 and are still together to this day. Theyve worked together on SNL, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Veep. And, Louis-Dreyfus says that the reality is that they really collaborate on everything. The couple are also the proud parents of two children, Charlie and Henry Hall. The Seinfeld star comes from an insanely wealthy family Nicki Swift also reports that Louis-Dreyfus has never needed the money shes earned over her career. She has a reported net worth of $250 million from her acting career. She made $500,000 per episode in the final season of Veep and $600,000 per episode during the final season of Seinfeld. However, her family is worth billions. When he was alive, Louis-Dreyfus father ran a shipping and commodities business called the Louis-Dreyfus group. That business is valued in the billions. However, the actress has shot down rumors in the past that she is a billionaire. She told Rolling Stone in 2014 that people just assume its true no matter what she does. However, her father has passed away since then. He died in 2016 and was worth $4 billion. Louis-Dreyfus split the estate with her siblings and stepmother. Between her current net worth, real estate, her inheritance, and future royalties, the Seinfeld star is likely to become a billionaire at some point. Nicholas Cage was joined by Pedro Pascal as he filmed scenes for his new movie The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent in Dubrovnik, Croatia on Monday. The actor, 56, who plays himself in the upcoming flick, could be seen filming at the sea next to a balcony with Pedro, 45. Pedro could be seen brandishing a gun which he held up in the air as Nicholas covered his ears to mask the sound of the gun shot. Movie: Nicholas Cage, 56, was joined by Pedro Pascal, 45, as he filmed scenes for his new movie The Unbearable Weight Of Massive Talent in Dubrovnik, Croatia on Monday Leaving Las Vegas star Nicholas cut a casual figure for the day, donning a black striped shirt with dark trousers. Pedro also opted for a laid back look and was dressed in a bright orange shirt as he filmed alongside his co-star. Lighting equipment could be seen nearby while crew members were on hand with sound equipment for the shoot. The film, penned by Tom Gormican and Kevin Etten, finds a downcast Nicholas yearning for a lead role in a Quentin Tarantino film as well as reconciliation for a bruised relationship with his teenage daughter. Filming: The actor, who plays himself in the upcoming flick, could be seen filming at the sea next to a balcony with Pedro The actor also has a back-and-forth with a haughty 1990s persona of himself who chides him for a lackluster list of recent credits and for letting his star burn out. Also bridled with surmounting debt, Nicholas' character is pushed to appear at the birthday party of a Mexican billionaire who is also a fan of his work and wants to share a script he wrote with him. After spending time with the man, the CIA informs Cage that the billionaire is in reality a drug cartel kingpin who has kidnapped the daughter of a Mexican presidential nominee. The U.S. government then recruits him to gather intelligence on the kingpin. Action: Pedro could be seen brandishing a gun which he held up in the air as Nicholas covered his ears to mask the sound of the gun shot This leads to a series of events including one in which the criminal brings over the actor's daughter and his ex-wife for a reconciliation - leading Nicholas to fight tooth and nail for their lives. The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent will include references to the star's past films including Leaving Las Vegas, Face-Off and Gone in 60 Seconds. It will also bear a tone similar to that of his film Adaptation, Jean-Claude Van Damme's meta movie JCVD and John Travolta's Get Shorty. Plot: The film, penned by Tom Gormican and Kevin Etten, finds a downcast Nicholas yearning for a lead role in a Quentin Tarantino film Nicholas serves as a producer alongside Kevin Turen, who produced the recently released drama Waves as well as HBO's Euphoria. According to sources via The Hollywood Reporter, the film's script was presented to Nicholas as a 'love letter' to him as opposed to a parody, making the actor enamored with the idea. The publication also reports that interest in the project was so high that Nicholas will likely be compensated at the level he was for his blockbusters like Con Air and National Treasure. Vote buying and the use of administrative resources looked like the early winners in Kyrgyzstan's October 4 parliamentary elections, although it quickly became apparent it might be a temporary victory. Officials initially signaled that preliminary figures showed only four of the 16 parties competing had reached the 7 percent threshold needed to win seats. Two parties seen as pro-government -- Birimdik (Unity) and Mekenim Kyrgyzstan (My Homeland Kyrgyzstan) -- took 24.53 and 23.9 percent of the vote, respectively. Though President Sooronbai Jeenbekov repeatedly said he did not favor any party in the run-up to the vote, his younger brother Asylbek's candidature for the Birimdik party suggested to some that the president might not be impartial. There were many accusations of school directors, factory owners, landlords, and local town and village chiefs telling their employees, tenants, and fellow community members to vote for a certain party. That's one of the most common violations in elections throughout Central Asia. Such stories were told during the first elections the five newly independent countries held in the 1990s and continue to surface with every new election. But in Kyrgyzstan, where elections are far more competitive, it can dramatically alter the results. Vote Buying Many of the accusations of local pressure being applied to voters ahead of these elections appeared to have Birimdik's fingerprints on them. Aside from the president's brother, the party boasts several members of the government among its candidates, some of whom were accused of putting the squeeze on local leaders. Similarly, allegations of vote buying were made against several of the 16 parties involved in the parliamentary elections, but the party most often mentioned was Mekenim Kyrgyzstan. Mekenim Kyrgyzstan is widely viewed inside the country as being allied with Raimbek Matraimov, a former deputy chief of the Customs Service and a reputed crime boss. Matraimov is the subject of several in-depth reports on corruption published by the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), Kyrgyzstan's independent Kloop media outlet, and RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service, known locally as Azattyk, and Bellingcat. Matraimov's brother Iskender ran as a Mekenim Kyrgyzstan candidate. There were numerous messages issued ahead of the vote urging people not to sell their votes, but these are especially hard economic times in Kyrgyzstan due to the economic downturn that accompanied the spread of the coronavirus. Many Kyrgyz are desperate to feed their families and pay bills. There were credible reports of cash payouts for people's votes in the weeks leading up to the elections: part of the payment up front and the remainder once the ballot was cast. There were dozens of videos and photographs posted on social networks on election day that showed people photographing their marked ballots, seemingly as proof they had fulfilled their part of the vote-buying bargain and were eligible for the balance of their payment. Vans and minibuses turned up outside polling stations across the country, fueling suspicions that parties were ferrying their paid voters between multiple polling stations. Several hours before the polls were closed, lawmaker Irina Karamushkina, who was a candidate for the opposition Social Democrats, was calling for these "most cynical and dirtiest elections" to be declared illegitimate. Besides Birimdik and Mekenim Kyrgyzstan, another party seen as pro-government, the Kyrgyzstan party, also appeared to have won seats, with 8.73 percent of the vote. Initially, a lone opposition party, Butun Kyrgyzstan, was said to have met the parliamentary threshold, with 7.13 percent. Early Protests By the time the preliminary election results were announced in the evening on October 4, Social Democratic supporters had already started a protest rally on Bishkek's central Ala-Too Square. Supporters of the Meken Yntymagy (Homeland Security) party and the Chong Kazat (Great Crusade) party were also demonstrating outside the headquarters of the Central Election Commission (BShK). The Ata-Meken (Fatherland), Reforma, Respublika, Zamandash (Contemporary), Ordo (Horde), and Bir Bol (Stay Together) parties had also released statements vowing not to recognize the election results. Even the religious-based Yyman Nuru (Ray of Faith) party cast doubt on the results. Meanwhile, Mekenim Kyrgyzstan and the Kyrgyzstan party, both of which won seats in parliament, boldly asserted that they thought they should have received more votes. Virtually all of the opposition parties called for rallies the day after the vote. On October 5, more than 1,000 supporters of five parties -- Reforma, Meken Yntymagy, Chong Kazat, Yyman Nuru, and Ordo -- gathered in Bishkek, and some of the first speakers were participants in the April 2010 revolution that toppled then-President Kurmanbek Bakiev. Supporters of the Ata-Meken, Respublika, Bir Bol, and Zamandash parties gathered outside the Opera and Ballet Theater in the capital before marching to Ala-Too Square, where the crowd had grown to several thousand. Mekenchil (Patriotic) party leader Kamchybek Tashiev soon joined the rally, too. People chanted slogans against "thieves" in government and vowed they would not accept the election results. There were similar demonstrations involving hundreds of people in the cities of Naryn and Talas. All these groups are pledging to continue their rallies until the results are annulled. Some demonstrators on Ala-Too Square set up yurts to emphasize their determination to stay until their demands were met. The Butun Kyrgyzstan party, which was among the parties that won seats in the elections, also sided with the demonstrators and -- together with the 11 parties represented in the October 5 demonstrations -- backed a memorandum demanding that the BShK annul the results of the elections by midnight. The group did not say what it intended to do if its demands were not met. That leaves one to wonder whether Birimdik and Mekenim overplayed their hands. But the public anger could entangle others. 'Jeenbekov Out!' President Jeenbekov's efforts to appear aloof from the campaign and elections could work against him. He had pledged that administrative resources would play no role in the outcome of elections. But there are widespread accusations that such tools played a significant role in the success of his brother's party, Birimdik. In early September, Jeenbekov responded to reports of vote buying by saying the "decision to sell ones vote is a personal decision." And Jeenbekov repeatedly responded to questions about vote buying by saying he had not seen any concrete evidence to support the claims -- never mind that such evidence would mean someone filing a complaint with police and risking reprisals from anyone trying to buy the votes. It now appears that many people fear that vote buying played a key role in these elections, and there is now substantial evidence on social networks that it did take place. As a result, critics are probably hoping that Jeenbekovs performance as president over the past three years receives a lot more public scrutiny. Some of the demonstrators on Bishkek's Ala-Too Square on October 5 were chanting, "Jeenbekov ketsin!" ("Out with Jeenbekov!") Eleven of the 12 parties that initially failed to win parliamentary seats are now protesting the results. Even by the official tally so far, they account for a combined 32 percent of the vote in these elections. Some 43 percent of eligible voters, or about 1.5 million, did not cast ballots, and many of them might also protest the election results, not to mention the almost 3 million more Kyrgyz citizens who were not registered to vote. By midday on October 5, there were already accusations that the Central Election Commission was working to manipulate the vote count to allow another opposition party to win seats, although that threatens to make the results appear not more but less legitimate. Many predicted that there would be cheating in these elections, but it seems no one imagined it would reach the levels that the opposition is now claiming. Kyrgyz authorities might not have much time to propose a credible solution. Independent Kyrgyzstan has seen two revolutions already, and many Kyrgyz might believe there are more and better reasons to be angry now than during either of those two upheavals. ST. JOHNS, N.L. - The recent death of a man who travelled to Newfoundland and Labrador from Central Africa was not primarily due to COVID-19, Health Minister John Haggie said Monday. Nonetheless, the man is listed as the provinces fourth COVID-19 victim. The only comment I can make about that is that COVID-19 is recorded on the death certificate, as far as Im informed by the chief medical examiner, as a supplementary diagnosis, not the principal diagnosis, Haggie told reporters. Privacy concerns, he added, kept him from saying much else about the man or his death. The man tested positive for COVID-19 after he died, Haggie confirmed. Health authorities say the man, between the ages of 60 and 69, arrived last Wednesday and died a day later while self-isolating. They say he was not exhibiting symptoms during his travel to the province. On Sunday, authorities said a woman connected to the man and also between the ages of 60 and 69 had tested positive for COVID-19. She too had travelled to the province from Central Africa. On Monday, health officials advised passengers on Air Canada flight 604 on Sept. 30, seated in rows 13 through 17, to self-isolate for 14 days from the moment they arrived into the province, and to call 811 to arrange a test. Passengers on AC8876 from Halifax to Deer Lake, N.L., on Sept. 30, are also being asked to self-monitor for symptoms and to call 811 to arrange a COVID-19 test. Passengers from that flight who are required to isolate have already been contacted, the Health Department said. Meanwhile, the Labrador-Grenfell health authority said Monday in an email that a communication error led to a health-care worker from Saskatchewan misunderstanding isolation rules. Authorities said last week she tested positive for COVID-19 after she had arrived in Labrador with a travel exemption as an essential worker. In response, the Health Department asked anyone who had visited two Happy Valley-Goose Bay stores during specific times to arrange for a COVID-19 test. Essential workers who travel to Newfoundland and Labrador are required to isolate when they arent at work, for 14 days upon their arrival into the province. The regional health authority said the woman misunderstood isolation rules because of a communication error. On Thursday, Haggie told reporters an investigation was underway to determine if the woman had visited the two stores. He said on Monday that he hadnt been told about the alleged communication error when he held the press conference. A Health Department spokesperson said the agency was updating its process for informing out-of-province health-care workers about proper isolation protocols. Haggie said Monday hed seen the updated policy on paper and that he was satisfied with the changes. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020 U.S. Embassy in Ukraine explains consequences of sanctions imposed against Derkach KYIV. Oct 5 (Interfax-Ukraine) The U.S. Embassy in Ukraine has clarified the meaning of the sanctions imposed by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the U.S. Treasury Department (OFAC) against persons associated with Russia, including MP of Ukraine Andriy Derkach (non-factional), involved in attempts to influence the electoral process in U.S. "On September 10, the United States imposed sanctions on Andriy Derkach and other Russian agents for attempting to influence the U.S. electoral process. Derkach maintains close connections with the Russian Intelligence Services and has served as an active Russian agent for over a decade, employing manipulation and deceit to attempt to influence elections in the United States and elsewhere around the world. Today, we would like to remind individuals and businesses what these sanctions mean," the Embassy's website quoted Spokesperson Daniel Langenkamp as saying on Monday. So, according to him, answering the question "If I often do business with someone who is subject to sanction, should I be concerned?" the answer is "Yes." "Persons who provide material support to designated individuals and/or entities could themselves become subject to designation," the diplomat stressed. Also, in response to the question, "Can sanctions on an individual affect businesses he or she owns?" the answer is also "Yes." "Entities owned by a blocked person may also be considered blocked persons. The property and interests in property of such an entity are blocked regardless of whether the entity itself is listed in the annex to an Executive Order or otherwise placed on the Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List," Langenkamp said. He stressed that the United States would remain vigilant in its efforts to uphold the integrity of its democracy, and the United States would continue to use all the tools at their disposal to counter these activities similar or linked to those of Derkach or other sanctioned individuals. Earlier, in August, Director of the United States National Counterintelligence and Security Center, William Evanina, said that with the help of the actions of Ukrainian MP Derkach, the process of discrediting the presidential candidate from the Democratic Party Joseph Biden was taking place. "For example, pro-Russia Ukrainian parliamentarian Andriy Derkach is spreading claims about corruption including through publicizing leaked phone calls to undermine former Vice President Biden's candidacy and the Democratic Party. Some Kremlin-linked actors are also seeking to boost President Trump's candidacy on social media and Russian television," Evanina's statement posted August 7 reads. Derkach himself called it "attempts to pin labels and an attack," which confirm the disclosure of the largest scheme of "democratic corruption" in connection with the recordings of voices of Poroshenko-Biden and Poroshenko-Putin published by the deputy. By ANI NEW DELHI: The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday submitted before the Supreme Court that the extradition of fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya was ordered by the highest court of the United Kingdom but it has not come into effect yet. The Central government said that it is not aware of the "secret" ongoing proceedings in the UK, which is delaying Mallya's extradition. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Ministry, said that government is neither aware of the nature of the proceedings nor is a party to it in the UK Supreme Court which had cleared the extradition of Mallya to India. The response came when a bench of the apex court, headed by Justice UU Lalit, asked what's holding back Vijay Mallya's extradition. Centre told the bench that nature of extradition proceedings not known and it's not a party to in the case in the UK. The court took into note that Mallya's lawyer was unable to state by when legal, extradition proceedings will end in the UK, his likelihood to appear before it to pursue the contempt matter. The court has now deferred the hearing of the case for November 2. Earlier, the Supreme Court had dismissed a plea filed by Mallya seeking a review of its May 2017 order holding him guilty of contempt for transferring USD 40 million to his children in violation of the court's order, and sought his presence before it on October 5. The court had directed the MHA to ensure his presence in the courtroom on that day. Mallya is an accused in a bank loan default case of over Rs 9,000 crore involving his defunct Kingfisher Airlines and is presently in the United Kingdom. The Supreme Court had issued its May 9, 2017, order on a plea by a consortium of banks led by the State Bank of India (SBI), claiming he had allegedly transferred USD 40 million received from British firm Diageo to his children in "flagrant violation" of various judicial orders. Earlier, the apex court had asked Mallya about the "truthfulness" of his disclosure of assets and the transfer of money to his children. At that time, the top court was dealing with pleas of lending banks seeking contempt action and a direction to Mallya to deposit USD 40 million received from offshore firm Diageo to the banks respectively. The banks had then accused Mallya of concealing the facts and diverted the money to his son Siddharth Mallya and daughters Leanna Mallya and Tanya Mallya in flagrant violation of the orders passed by the Karnataka High Court. (ANI) Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden has again tested negative for the coronavirus, his campaign said Sunday. Its at least the third time the former vice president has tested negative for Covid-19 since President Donald Trump announced he tested positive early Friday morning. Vice President Biden underwent PCR testing for Covid-19 today and Covid-19 was not detected, Bidens campaign said in a statement. Biden was potentially exposed to the virus that has killed more than 209,000 people in the U.S. on Tuesday when he faced Trump in the first presidential debate of the 2020 election. Trump is currently being treated at Water Reed military hospital. Others who have tested positive for coronavirus in recent days include first lady Melania Trump, top White House aides Hope Hicks and Kellyanne Conway, Trump campaign manager Bill Stepien, three Republican senators Thom Tillis of North Carolina, Mike Lee of Utah and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who was part of Trumps debate prep team. Concerns are still high as Vice President Mike Pence attended the White House ceremony for Trumps Supreme Court Justice nominee Amy Coney Barrett just over a week ago. Politico notes attendees, including the Trumps, Tillis, Lee, Conway and Christie, did not wear masks or practice social distancing. As of Monday morning, Pence and Bidens running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), are still planning to have their only VP debate in Utah this week. KSL reports the University of Utah is working closely with the Commission on Presidential Debates and with our health professionals to ensure the VP debate is safe for all participants. Pence and Harris, who have both tested negative for coronavirus, are scheduled for a 90-minute debate at 7 p.m. Wednesday. ABC News reports Pence and Harris will be spaced 12 feet apart on the debate stage in Salt Lake City to minimize Covid-19 risks. Vice President Mike Pence and the Democratic nominee, Sen. Kamala Harris of California both of whom have tested negative for the deadly virus will participate in a 90-minute debate at Kingsbury Hall that begins at 7 p.m. Wednesday. Its unclear if the two remaining presidential debates between Trump and Biden will go on as scheduled. The next debate is currently set for Oct. 15, which is less than 14 days following the presidents Covid-19 diagnosis. Obviously, thats going to depend on a lot of factors here. First and foremost, President Trumps health, which we -- we send him the best, and we are -- we are hoping for a speedy and full recovery, as is everybody in this country, Kate Bedingfield, Joe Bidens deputy campaign manager, told ABC Sunday. So our hope is that the debate will go forward on the day that its scheduled, but obviously we will be attune to any changes that need to be made." Bidens campaign also reportedly emphasized that the Syracuse University College of Law alumnus has regularly followed public health guidelines on wearing face masks and practicing social distancing. Biden is scheduled to travel Monday to Florida. FBI forensic examiner Marcy Plaza said she found Loofe's blood on a rubber glove, star-patterned pants with possible bleach stains and other cut-up pieces of clothing found among 17 sites where garbage bags concealed body parts. But the DNA testing failed to provide answers as to who had been wearing the clothing or to tie Boswell to the killing. Plaza said there was, however, "limited support" that Trail's DNA was found on an extension cord found west of Wilber. Trail testified at his trial last year that he had accidentally strangled Loofe with an extension cord during sex and disposed of her body because he didn't think police would believe him. In the end, the jury found him guilty of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. So far, the strongest evidence at Boswell's trial has come in the form of cellphone tower data. Lincoln Police Investigator Bob Hurley used his analysis of the data, which had been instrumental in finding Loofe's remains, to track the path of cellphones connected to Boswell, Trail and Loofe in the day before and days after Loofe went missing after her date with Boswell on Nov. 15, 2017. New Delhi, Oct 5 : Samsung is set to launch Galaxy S20 Fan Edition (FE) smartphone in India on October 6 that will be priced aggressively around Rs 50,000 in the country. Reliable industry sources told IANS on Monday that the affordable premium device will arrive in new vibrant colours to attract Gen Z and millennial consumers in the country. Galaxy S20 FE will be sold through Samsung's online platform and chain of exclusive stores, leading e-commerce portals and retail stores. The company unveiled the Galaxy S20 Fan Edition (FE) for the global market last month, starting at $699 for the 5G variant. The device comes in two variants: 8GB RAM with 128/256GB internal storage (LTE) and 6GB RAM with 128GB internal storage (5G). Samsung took select features of the Galaxy S20 series, such as the super smooth scrolling display, an AI-powered camera, advanced chipset, hyper-fast connectivity, all day battery, expandable storage, with a streamlined premium design, in order to create the all-new Galaxy S20 FE. The smartphone has a 6.5-inch Infinity-O Super AMOLED display with 120 Hz super smooth scrolling display, an AI-powered camera, advanced Exynos 990 chipset, a 4500mAh battery and expandable storage. The Galaxy S20 FE is water and dust resistant IP68 rated. Housing 30X Space Zoom, Galaxy S20 FE brings a pro-grade triple camera at the rear (12MP Ultra Wide camera, 12MP Wide-angle camera and 8MP Telephoto camera), along with the 32MP selfie camera that includes tetra-binning technology that will let the users instantly capture a post-worthy picture. With the launch of Galaxy S20 FE, Samsung will have another strong smartphone in the premium segment in India. Samsung is currently selling its flagship Galaxy S20 and Galaxy Note20 lines in the premium segment in the country. The device also features a premium textured haze effect that minimises fingerprints and smudges, the company said. With 5G connectivity and access to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, you can enjoy an advanced mobile gaming experience. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Continues to Define and Expand Multiple High-Grade Vein Corridors Drillhole locations from this news release Drillhole locations from this news release Drillhole locations from this news release Cariboo Geology Map Cariboo Geology Map Cariboo Geology Map Cariboo Deposit Areas Cariboo Deposit Areas Cariboo Deposit Areas Cow Mountain and Valley Zone 2019 and 2020 Cow Mountain and Valley Zone 2019 and 2020 Cow Mountain and Valley Zone 2019 and 2020 Barkerville Mountain Lowhee and KL Zones 2019 and 2020 Drilling Barkerville Mountain Lowhee and KL Zones 2019 and 2020 Drilling Barkerville Mountain Lowhee and KL Zones 2019 and 2020 Drilling Proserpine 2019 Drilling Proserpine 2019 Drilling Proserpine 2019 Drilling MONTREAL, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd (Osisko or the Company) (TSX & NYSE: OR) is pleased to announce drilling results from the definition and expansion drill program at the Cariboo Gold Project (Cariboo) in central British Columbia. Sean Roosen, Chair and CEO of Osisko, commented: Since Osisko first got involved in the Cariboo project we have been firm believers in its potential scale and importance within the sector. Recent drill results continue to confirm our thesis that Cariboo is not just a mining project, but a mining camp. In a separate release, we have announced that Cariboo will become the flagship asset in the newly formed Osisko Development Corp. I look forward to leading the team that advances Cariboo towards intermediate producer status. In 2019, drilling at Cariboo successfully intersected down dip extensions of mineralized vein corridors to a depth of 700 meters and confirmed high-grade intercepts within the current resource. The Company also made multiple new discoveries by stepping out along strike from the known deposits to define a strike length of 15 kilometers of the mineralized system (Figures 1 and 2). These new discoveries will be followed by the drill programs described below with the aim of adding significant resources to Cariboo with continued success. This year, we began a 40,000-meter diamond drilling campaign focused on the expansion of the Lowhee Zone and further delineating the Cow and Valley deposits (Figure 1). After a COVID-19 related delay, three drill rigs are currently active at Cariboo, increasing to eight in October. Story continues Figure 1: Drillhole locations from this news release https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/bcec9e86-6658-4d62-bb09-26c607199d44 At Cow, a total of 16,000 meters were drilled in 72 holes in 2019. Year-to-date, 4,350 meters have been drilled in 22 holes (Figure 4). Drilling continues to define the high-grade vein corridors demonstrated by CM-20-009 that intersected 25.79 g/t Au over 6.30 meters and included a higher-grade sample of 99.8 g/t Au over 0.55 meter. Recently, 6,530 g/t Au over 0.50 meter was intersected 10 meters down dip from a modelled vein corridor in hole CM-20-018, representing the highest-grade assay intersected in all drilling to date at the Cariboo Gold Project. At Valley Zone, 11,000 meters have been drilled in 57 holes in 2020. This news release discusses the initial assay results returned. Highlights include 9.99 g/t Au over 5.95 meters including 84.5 g/t Au over 0.50 meter in hole CM-20-025. The majority of the drilling proposed for the remainder of 2020 will occur in the Valley Zone vein corridors. The Valley Zone has not been drill tested since 2017, and significant potential exists to add both inferred and indicated resource to the deposit. On Barkerville Mountain, the newly discovered Lowhee Zone, interpreted to be an offset strike extension of the Cow Mountain Deposit, is rapidly demonstrating high-grade vein corridors with systematic exploration drilling. This news release includes the drill results from the remaining 11 holes drilled at KL in 2019, the remaining 20 holes from Lowhee drilled in 2019 and the first 24 drillholes from Lowhee drilled in 2020 (Figure 5). At Lowhee Zone, a total of 18,000 meters in 48 holes have been drilled to date. Recent results from Lowhee include 20.66 g/t Au over 12.80 meters with a sample of 352 g/t Au over 0.65 meter located 100 meters from surface in in exploration hole BM-19-105. BM-19-109 intersected 10.53 g/t Au over 18.70 meters. Multiple intercepts greater than 100 g/t Au include 186.5 g/t Au over 0.50 meter in hole BM-19-101, 327 g/t Au over 0.50 meter in BGM-19-111, 159 g/t Au over 0.50 meter in BM-20-013 and 249 g/t Au over 0.55 meter in BM-20-016. The Lowhee Zone has been drill tested to a vertical depth averaging 350 meters along a current strike of 300 meters by 500 meters and is open in all directions. At KL Zone, located in the footwall of the Bonanza Ledge and BC Vein Deposits, a total of 36,000 meters were drilled in 87 holes in 2019. Recent results from the KL Zone include 11.87 g/t Au over 5.80 meters in BM-19-079 and 8.84 g/t Au over 10.40 meters from BM-19-093. The apparent strike length of this system is 1.5 kilometers, outlined from the recent drill results and the Companys detailed lithological and structural mapping programs conducted over the last two years. Figure 5 illustrates the location of the drilling on Lowhee and KL. In 2019, drilling at Cariboo successfully made multiple new discoveries, including Proserpine Mountain, located 6 kilometers south east of the Companys Bonanza Ledge Mine. Based on detailed geologic mapping and sampling programs carried out in 2019 (Figure 2). A total 2,675 meters were drilled in 6 holes over a strike length of 1 kilometer. One stratigraphic hole was drilled to define the extents of the prospective sandstone unit and five holes explored for mineralized vein corridors. The program was successful in discovery of high grade, mineralized axial planar veins analogous to those on Cow and Island Mountains in five out of the six holes. Assay highlights include 17.78 g/t Au over 5.60 meters in PSP-19-002 just 50 meters from surface. The drillhole locations are indicated on Figure 6 and drilled at an average spacing of 300 meters. The system is open in all directions and prospective areas remain untested along strike. The Company is currently conducting an additional 6,000 meters of diamond drilling on Proserpine to follow up and expand these initial positive results. Further highlights from 2019-2020 drilling at Cow Mountain, Valley, Lowhee, KL and Proserpine are presented below. Select Cow Mountain Highlights: CM-19-029: 9.47 g/t Au over 11.40 meters CM-19-030: 5.50 g/t Au over 32.55 meters including 25.67 g/t Au over 4.95 meters CM-19-044: 20.94 g/t Au over 3.50 meters CM-19-055: 15.87 g/t Au over 8.70 meters including 98.20 g/t Au over 0.90 meter CM-19-057: 73.80 g/t Au over 0.90 meter CM-19-059: 51.90 g/t Au over 1.45 meters CM-19-070: 16.56 g/t Au over 5.20 meters CM-19-071: 18.70 g/t Au over 7.00 meters CM-19-072: 7.75 g/t Au over 9.40 meters CM-20-003: 27.21 g/t Au over 5.55 meters including 179.5 g/t Au over 0.80 meter CM-20-006: 66.40 g/t Au over 0.65 meter CM-20-009: 25.79 g/t Au over 6.30 meters including 99.8 g/t Au over 0.55 meter CM-20-009: 18.11 g/t Au over 3.50 meters including 47.7 g/t Au over 1.15 meters CM-20-015: 16.83 g/t Au over 3.60 meters including 117.50 g/t Au over 0.50 meter CM-20-018: 6,530 g/t Au over 0.50 meter CM-20-022: 13.58 g/t Au over 3.90 meters Select Valley Zone Highlights: CM-20-025: 9.99 g/t Au over 5.95 meters including 84.5 g/t Au over 0.50 meter CM-20-029: 6.59 g/t Au over 5.90 meters CM-20-031: 6.28 g/t Au over 16.0 meters CM-20-031: 5.58 g/t Au over 11.8 meters Select KL Zone Highlights BM-19-079: 11.87 g/t Au over 5.8 meters BM-19-094: 9.46 g/t Au over 5.85 meters Select Lowhee Zone Highlights BM-19-093: 8.84 g/t Au over 10.4 meters including 58.10 g/t Au over 0.80 meters and 70.0 g/t Au over 0.50 meter BM-19-101: 40.25 g/t Au over 2.50 meters including 186.5 g/t Au over 0.50 meters BM-19-102: 5.76 g/t Au over 6.75 meters BM-19-105: 20.66 g/t Au over 12.80 meters including 352 g/t Au over 0.65 meters BM-19-109: 10.53 g/t Au over 18.7 meters including 109.5 g/t Au over 0.50 meters and 90.1 g/t Au over 0.50 meters BM-19-111: 6.82 g/t Au over 9.25 meters including 60.60 g/t Au over 0.50 meter BM-19-111: 327 g/t Au over 0.5 meter BM-20-001: 44.40 g/t Au over 0.85 meter BM-20-004: 4.18 g/t Au over 7.90 meters BM-20-007: 44.92 g/t Au over 2.10 meters including 137.5 g/t Au over 0.50 meter BM-20-007: 12.07 g/t Au over 7.5 meters including 120.0 g/t Au over 0.50 meter BM-20-013: 13.20 g/t Au over 10.60 meters including 159 g/t Au over 0.50 meter BM-20-014: 64.00 g/t Au over 0.60 meter BM-20-015: 25.29 g/t Au over 2.00 meters including 58.6 g/t Au over 0.80 meter BM-20-016: 99.70 g/t Au over 0.50 meter BM-20-016: 249.0 g/t Au over 0.55 meter BM-20-020: 9.29 g/t Au over 4.65 meters including 68.1 g/t Au over 0.50 meter BM-20-020: 18.18 g/t Au over 10.2 meters including 91.4 g/t Au over 0.50 meter Select Proserpine Assays PSP-19-001: 16.70 g/t Au over 0.50 meters PSP-19-002: 17.78 g/t Au over 5.60 meters including 112 g/t Au over 0.60 meter and 30.70 g/t Au over 1.00 meter PSP-19-002: 26.08 g/t Au over 3.00 meters including 84.90 g/t Au over 0.90 meter PSP-19-003: 95.20 g/t Au over 0.50 meter Mineralized quartz veins on the Cariboo Gold Project are overall sub-vertical dip and northeast strike. Vein corridors are defined as a high-density network of mineralized quartz veins within the axis of the F3 fold and hosted within the sandstones. Vein corridors are modelled at a minimum thickness of 2 meters and individual veins within each corridor range in width from millimeter to several meters. The modelled vein corridors for the resource update includes the internal dilution of the subeconomic sandstone within these vein corridors. These corridors have been defined from surface to a vertical depth averaging 300 meters and remain open for expansion at depth and down plunge. Gold grades are intimately associated with vein-hosted pyrite as well as pyritic, intensely silicified wall rock haloes in close proximity to the veins. True widths are estimated to be 60 to 75% of reported core length intervals. Intervals not recovered by drilling were assigned zero grade. Top cuts have not been applied to high grade assays. Complete assay highlights are presented in Appendix A. Figure 2: Cariboo Geology Map https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d21f2c6e-6560-4fef-ac6a-ce17e9331ae4 Figure 3: Cariboo Deposit Areas https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b1a69bbd-17d8-473b-b07b-6cae727dc25f Figure 4: Cow Mountain and Valley Zone 2019 and 2020 Drilling https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a794597c-56ec-4076-b556-886635176d53 Figure 5: Barkerville Mountain Lowhee and KL Zones 2019 and 2020 Drilling https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dd9c787b-42ea-4854-a285-4d4cabdcfcea Figure 6: Proserpine 2019 Drilling https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/82cf461c-a7a4-457e-aa0a-e9e7666cb187 Complete assay highlights are presented in Appendix A. Please click here. Qualified Persons Per National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, Maggie Layman, P.Geo. Vice President Exploration of Barkerville Gold Mines Ltd, is a Qualified Person and has prepared, validated and approved the technical and scientific content of this news release. Quality Assurance Quality Control Once received from the drill and processed, all drill core samples are sawn in half, labelled and bagged. The remaining drill core is subsequently stored on site at a secured facility in Wells, BC. Numbered security tags are applied to lab shipments for chain of custody requirements. Quality control (QC) samples are inserted at regular intervals in the sample stream, including blanks and reference materials with all sample shipments to monitor laboratory performance. The QAQC program was designed and approved by Lynda Bloom, P.Geo. of Analytical Solutions Ltd. Drill core samples are submitted to ALS Geochemistrys analytical facility in North Vancouver, British Columbia for preparation and analysis. The ALS facility is accredited to the ISO/IEC 17025 standard for gold assays and all analytical methods include quality control materials at set frequencies with established data acceptance criteria. The entire sample is crushed, and 250 grams is pulverized. Analysis for gold is by 50g fire assay fusion with atomic absorption (AAS) finish with a lower limit of 0.01 ppm and upper limit of 100 ppm. Samples with gold assays greater than 100 ppm are re-analyzed using a 1,000g screen metallic fire assay. A selected number of samples are also analyzed using a 48 multi-elemental geochemical package by a 4-acid digestion, followed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy (ICP-MS). About Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd is an intermediate precious metal royalty company focused on the Americas that commenced activities in June 2014. Osisko holds a North American focused portfolio of over 135 royalties, streams and precious metal offtakes. Osiskos portfolio is anchored by its cornerstone asset, a 5% net smelter return royalty on the Canadian Malartic mine, which is the largest gold mine in Canada. Osisko also owns the Cariboo gold project in Canada as well as a portfolio of publicly held resource companies, including a 14.7% interest in Osisko Mining Inc., 17.9% interest in Osisko Metals Incorporated and a 18.3% interest in Falco Resources Ltd. Osiskos head office is located at 1100 Avenue des Canadiens-de Montreal, Suite 300, Montreal, Quebec, H3B 2S2. For further information, please contact Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd: Sandeep Singh President Tel. (514) 940-0670 ssingh@osiskogr.com Forward-looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release may be deemed forwardlooking statements within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws. These forwardlooking statements, by their nature, require Osisko to make certain assumptions and necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forwardlooking statements. Forwardlooking statements are not guarantees of performance. Words such as may, will, would, could, expect, believe, plan, anticipate, intend, estimate, continue, or the negative or comparable terminology, as well as terms usually used in the future and the conditional, are intended to identify forwardlooking statements. Information contained in forwardlooking statements is based upon certain material assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including managements perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, results of further exploration work to define and expand mineral resources, expected conclusions of optimization studies, that vein corridors continue to be defined as a high-density network of mineralized quartz within the axis of the F3 fold and hosted within the sandstones and that the deposit remains open for expansion at depth and down plunge, as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. Osisko considers its assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, but cautions the reader that their assumptions regarding future events, many of which are beyond the control of Osisko, may ultimately prove to be incorrect since they are subject to risks and uncertainties that affect Osisko and its business. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, risks relating to the ability of exploration activities (including drill results) to accurately predict mineralization; errors in managements geological modelling; the ability of to complete further exploration activities, including drilling; property and royalty interests in the Cariboo gold deposit; the ability of the Corporation to obtain required approvals; the results of exploration activities; risks relating to mining activities; the global economic climate; metal prices; dilution; environmental risks; and community and non-governmental actions and the responses of relevant governments to the COVID-19 outbreak and the effectiveness of such responses. For additional information with respect to these and other factors and assumptions underlying the forwardlooking statements made in this press release, see the section entitled Risk Factors in the most recent Annual Information Form of Osisko which is filed with the Canadian securities commissions and available electronically under Osiskos issuer profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and available electronically under Osiskos issuer profile on EDGAR at www.sec.gov. The forward looking statements set forth herein reflect Osiskos expectations as at the date of this press release and are subject to change after such date. Osisko disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forwardlooking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. A Neo-Nazi farmer has been jailed for storing bottles of cyanide next to ginger beer and salad cream in his fridge. Russell Wadge, 58, was 'frustrated over Brexit' and he 'planned to use the chemicals to attack Remainers', his trial at Newport Crown Court was told. Wadge had his country home raided by anti-terrorism police in July 2019 who found the poison on fridge shelves next to his groceries. He was also found with an arsenal of weapons, including grenades and mines and instructions on how to make nerve gas. Wadge was also interested in white supremacy, Nazi Germany and had sent funds to the English Defence League, his trial heard. But he claimed he did not have any extremist views and was just a chemicals enthusiast because 'explosives are fun.' A court heard Russell Wadge, 58, stored poison in the fridge at his Carmarthenshire home which was discovered during a raid by anti-terrorism police Wadge was found with an arsenal of weapons, including grenades and mines, at his home The court heard counter-terrorism police found poison in the fridge when they raided his home in the quiet village of Trimsaran, Carmarthenshire, in June last year. Wadge also has a property in Portugal containing chemicals including hydrogen cyanide in the freezer. Wadge allegedly told police: 'If it's dodgy or poison, I love it.' Wadge pleaded guilty to five counts of possessing cyanide chemicals without a licence. A jury at Newport Crown Court found him not guilty of 25 counts of possessing or having control of explosive substances. Wadge was also found to have interests in white supremacy and had given funds to the English Defence League, the court heard A jury at Newport Crown Court found Wadge not guilty of 25 counts of possessing or having control of explosive substances. Pictured: some of the ammunition found at his home He was also allegedly found with an arsenal of weapons, including grenades and mines He was also cleared of three counts of using, developing or participating in the transfer of chemical weapons. Judge Geraint Walters jailed Wadge for 12 months - but he is due to be released shortly after serving time on remand. Judge Walters said: 'You are an opinionated individual and intolerant of those who disagree with you, there's no doubt that is part of your personality and it's a hugely unattractive part of your personality. Some of the chemical substances found at Russell Wadge's country home in Carmarthenshire Pictured: A police officer on scene after a man was found with explosives in his home 'You are an uncompromising individual with views, which you are entitled to have, while intolerant of other people's views if they don't coincide with your own. 'You have no respect for the law by which you time and time again pour scorn on and upon the police and lawmakers in the country. 'I find it ironic that a man who has dedicated many years of his life that Great British values should return to the exclusion of all others should abandon that country and go to live somewhere you wanted the UK out of. 'If you were in part of the country where I was living, I would be keeping a very close eye on you.' Vilnius (AP) Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius will spend a week in isolation after having been in contact with an infected person who was part of the French delegation during last weeks visit by French President Emmanuel Macron, an official said Monday. The Baltic News Agency quoted Rasa Jakilaitiene, a spokeswoman for Linkevicius. The French Embassy told the the regions main news agency that two staff members of the French Embassy in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius had tested positive for coronavirus and they were part of Macrons delegation. The persons are self-isolating and the French Embassy has been closed for several days, BNS said. There was no immediate reaction from the French mission in Vilnius. According to BNS, the delegation from Paris was pre-tested and the results were negative before the visit. Macron visited Lithuania on Sept. 28-29. (AP) . Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor On Italys southernmost island of Lampedusa, an increase in migrant arrivals that stretched reception facilities beyond capacity has stoked fears of a new crisis, giving the extreme right new fodder for its anti-migrant rhetoric. An immigration centre, built to host 96 people, has been used to house up to 10 times that number over the summer, a situation described by the islands mayor, Toto Martello as untenable. It is seven years since the heartbreaking shipwreck off the islands coast cost the lives of 368 migrants, many of them fleeing desperate situations in Eritrea and Somalia. The tragedy on 3 October 2013, at the time prompted an outpouring of solidarity for the plight of migrants, but today political tensions on Lampedusa are at boiling point. When President Trump called into Fox News on Thursday night and confirmed that his close aide Hope Hicks tested positive for COVID-19, he didn't share with viewers that he also had a positive result from a rapid test and was waiting for the results from a more thorough screening, several people familiar with the matter told The Wall Street Journal on Sunday. Speaking to host Sean Hannity, Trump said he had been tested and would get the results back "either tonight or tomorrow morning." Early Friday morning, Trump tweeted that both he and first lady Melania Trump had tested positive for coronavirus. When Hicks tested positive on Thursday morning, Trump's top advisers wanted to make sure this was kept under wraps, and even his campaign manager, Bill Stepien, didn't find out until it was reported by Bloomberg News on Thursday night, people familiar with the matter told the Journal; Stepien announced on Friday morning that he tested positive for the virus. According to the Journal, Trump told another unidentified adviser that he or she should keep their positive test results to themselves, saying, "Don't tell anyone." On Thursday afternoon, Trump left Washington for a fundraising event in New Jersey. One official told the Journal the campaign squad was not consulted on whether Trump should attend the event, and the White House has since said the operations team determined it was safe to go, claiming Trump tested negative in the morning. Holding this fundraiser "in spite of knowing that one of the team was infected and had exposed others was a recipe for spreading disease," Lisa M. Lee, a public health expert at Virginia Tech University, told the Journal. More stories from theweek.com 4 plausible election scenarios after Trump's coronavirus diagnosis The pandemic wake-up call America needs Trump is sick. So is the GOP. WASHINGTON - From the start, Senate Republican leaders have known their ambitious timeline to get Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett confirmed before Election Day offered little room for error. But that tightly crafted schedule has now been thrown into uncertainty with the coronavirus diagnoses of at least two Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee and the fear that other senators could test positive in the coming days. Several other GOP senators, both on and off the committee, are also isolating as a precaution after being exposed to infected colleagues. Sensing an opportunity to delay, Democrats are cranking up their push to postpone the Oct. 12 confirmation hearings citing the safety of members, aides and Barrett herself - waging a public-pressure campaign since they have no powers on their own to stop the proceedings. In a statement to The Washington Post on Sunday, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., demanded that Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., require all members of the Judiciary Committee to be tested before participating in Barrett's confirmation hearing. Democrats have also insisted that remote participation, even for senators, is inadequate for a lifetime appointment to the Supreme Court. "Moving forward with the committee process when three senators have recently tested positive for covid-19 is irresponsible and dangerous, but doing so without requiring all members to be tested before a hearing in accordance with CDC best practices would be intentionally reckless," Schumer said in the statement to The Post. "If Chairman Graham doesn't require testing, it may make some wonder if he just doesn't want to know the results." Aides to Graham did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Sunday. Democrats are also eyeing their real opening: when GOP votes are needed to advance Barrett's nomination both in the committee and on the floor, and a critical mass of Republican senators remain coronavirus-positive or in isolation when their in-person presence would be needed. Of the dozen GOP senators on the committee that will take up Barrett's confirmation, two - Sens. Mike Lee of Utah and Thom Tillis of North Carolina - announced Friday that they had tested positive for the coronavirus. Two others - Ben Sasse of Nebraska and Ted Cruz of Texas - have tested negative but are quarantining upon medical advice and, in Sasse's case, will undergo more tests. All four have said they plan to return to Washington by Oct. 12, though Graham has offered any member the opportunity to participate remotely if necessary. Several other Republicans on the Judiciary Committee, particularly those at a Rose Garden ceremony for Barrett on Sept. 26 that more than a half-dozen ill people attended, have tested negative. The third Republican senator known to currently have the virus is Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., while others, such as Sen. James Lankford, R-Okla., are quarantining as a precaution after being exposed to other senators who tested positive for the coronavirus, which causes the disease covid-19. Well before the news that Lee and Tillis had tested positive, the Judiciary Committee had already been preparing for one of the most high-profile hearings any Senate will hold, yet under the most unusual of circumstances. Barrett plans to testify in person, according to a Republican aide involved in the hearing logistics who spoke on the condition of anonymity to freely discuss private planning. Supreme Court confirmation hearings are usually held in a mammoth room in the Hart Senate Office Building, but congressional officials are imposing much stricter requirements to try to maintain a safe environment for Barrett, her family, senators, aides and the media. In the Hart hearing room, there is typically one long dais for senators, but a second will be constructed in front of the existing one to allow for more space between each lawmaker. Each senator - as well as Barrett - will have his or her own sanitary station equipped with hand sanitizer, wipes, paper towels and trash cans. Several stations with personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves will be scattered throughout the room, while the committee will strictly enforce a one-aide-per-senator rule inside the hearing room, requiring staffers to show a badge to enter the room. On the floor of the hearing room, there will be about 10 seats available for the media - in contrast with the 108 people credentialed for the first day of the confirmation hearings for Judge Brett Kavanaugh two years ago. There will be space for Barrett's family, who will remain in a little "bubble" together, as well as about five officials from the administration or those there to introduce her. There will be no members of the public allowed into the hearing room. Unless they have an escort, members of the public have not been allowed into the Capitol complex since the spring. "The one thing I want people to know is that the virus is serious, but we have to move on as a nation. When a military member gets infected, you don't shut down the whole unit," Graham said during a debate Saturday against his Democratic challenger, Jaime Harrison. "We're going to have a hearing for Amy Barrett, the nominee to the Supreme Court. It will be done safely - but I've got a job to do, and I'm pressing on." Despite the outcry from Democrats that a remote hearing for Barrett is insufficient, the Judiciary Committee alone has held 21 hearings that had some sort of virtual component since the pandemic surged this spring, according to research compiled by Senate Republicans. That includes a May 6 confirmation hearing for Justin Walker to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, in which four Democratic senators and two Senate Republicans appeared through video. It also includes a May 20 confirmation hearing for Cory Wilson to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit in which three Senate Democrats and one Republican senator questioned him remotely. Both Wilson and Walker - who were confirmed to lifetime judicial appointments - appeared in person. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., a member of the Judiciary Committee who also is the ranking Democrat of the panel that oversees Senate operations, acknowledged Sunday that it was "important" to give senators the option of a hearing conducted virtually. But on a Supreme Court confirmation, "you want to be able to go back and forth with this nominee," Klobuchar said on "Fox News Sunday." If more of his members continue to fall ill or are forced into quarantine, the math for Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., is virtually impossible to overcome. That is especially the case if Democrats - who have adhered to stricter guidelines than Republicans, meeting virtually for party lunches rather than in person like GOP senators do - remain healthy and present. McConnell has already lost the support of Sens. Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, although only Collins has explicitly said she would vote against Barrett on the floor should a vote be held before the election. The first obstacle for Republicans may be the committee vote, tentatively planned for Oct. 22. To report out a nomination, a majority of the 22-member committee will need to be present, and Democratic senators will not help Republicans make quorum, aides said Sunday. Although proxy voting is allowed in the Judiciary Committee, it only works when there is a quorum present and the proxy votes do not change the outcome of the vote, according to committee officials. That means absences on the GOP side would greatly complicate the prospects of holding a successful committee vote for Barrett. McConnell can take procedural steps to bring Barrett's nomination to the floor without any committee vote, but that would require the consent of 60 senators, according to Democratic officials who have reviewed the floor procedure. Outside advisers working on the confirmation have suggested a system in which the committee vote would be held in the Senate chamber, with ill senators voting from the visitors' galleries above the floor so they can maintain distance. Yet GOP aides have yet to discuss that option. For now, Republicans are vowing to press forward - virus or not, healthy or infected. "I think every senator who has currently tested positive or is in isolation will be back to work, under normal conditions" by later this month, Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., said Sunday on Fox News. But if not, Cotton said "there is a long tradition of . . . ill or medically infirm senators being wheeled in to cast critical votes on the Senate floor." The leader of a First Nation in southern Cape Breton that has started Nova Scotias second self-regulated commercial Indigenous fishery says it has created a mood of excitement and optimism in his small community. Wilbert Marshall, the chief of Potlotek First Nation, said seven vessels are already participating in the lobster fishery just three days into the new effort. He said the boats are bringing in hundreds of pounds of lobster daily outside of the federally regulated season. During a telephone interview on Sunday, his nephew arrived to borrow his trailer, which the young man planned to use to purchase lobster traps for an additional vessel that will soon be licenced by the Mikmaq band. Its created a big excitement here. Its good to see they want to fish and make some money, said the chief from his home in Potlotek, about 70 kilometres northeast of Sydney, N.S. The community of about 700 remains short on housing, and Marshall said young people in Potlotek are eager to earn enough to buy their home rather than wait for the bands help. They dont want to rely on us. ... Were here to help them out and give them a means to do it, he said. The opening of the fishery on Thursday was similar to the Sipeknekatik First Nation lobster fishery in western Nova Scotia, which started last month on the 21st anniversary of a historic 1999 Supreme Court ruling. In that decision, the court decided that Donald Marshall Jr. had a treaty right to fish for eels when and where he wanted, without a licence. The Marshall decision also said the First Nations in Eastern Canada could hunt, fish and gather to earn a moderate livelihood, though the court followed up with a clarification two months later saying the treaty right was subject to federal regulation. That additional ruling is at the crux of the argument being made by some non-Indigenous fishers, who say First Nations must abide by Ottawas conservation measures. The Richmond County Inshore Fishermens Association, the largest non-Indigenous group fishing in the St. Peters Bay area, sent an email declining comment on the Potlotek fishery. However, Marshall said to date there have been no conflicts on the water, unlike tensions which led to hundreds of the Sipeknekatik traps being hauled from the waters of St. Marys Bay by commercial harvesters last month. So far, they (non-Indigenous fishers) are talking to the government. They said theyll leave us alone. So far, its been quiet here, he said. Marshall said the livelihood fishery plan required 14 weeks to prepare, and is being used now as a model by other bands around the province. It allows a maximum of 70 traps per person on the vessel, with a maximum of 200 traps per vessel. Craig Doucette, a 36-year-old Mikmaq lobster fisherman, said in an interview he caught about 110 pounds of lobster on Sunday from his 20 traps placed in the St. Peters Bay, using his six-metre aluminum boat. He hopes to fish until the middle of December, with a goal of about $40,000 in revenues. Its wonderful for us to be able to fish a self-governed fishery and do it for ourselves, not working for someone else, he said. Doucette said each day there are five or 10 people stopping by the wharf to buy his catch. We want to work together with others to make this work, he said. A spokeswoman for the federal Fisheries Department confirmed that the Potlotek fishery will be the subject of ongoing talks between government officials and Marshall, adding theyre set to continue this week. Fisheries Minister Bernadette Jordan has previously said in statements that she wants to work with First Nations leaders on the path forward of the implementation of their Treaty right. Since the Marshall decision, the federal Fisheries Department has responded with several programs. They began with the Marshall response initiative, which provided First Nation communities with licences, vessels and gear. Through that initiative, an investment of $354 million was made between 2000 and 2007 in commercial fishing licences, vessels, gear, and training. Following the conclusion of that program, the department launched the Atlantic integrated commercial fisheries initiative in 2007, which provides funding to build the capacity of Indigenous fishing enterprises. To date, including projected expenditures to the end of the 2020-21 fiscal year, this has provided $97 million in direct funding. Potlotek currently has 15 of these commercial communal licences, five of them for lobster. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 4, 2020 Bachelorette Georgia Love has used her star power to draw attention to a charity which aims to end violence against children. Throwing their support behind the charity Polished Man, the former TV star and her fiance Lee Elliott painted one fingernail blue to 'represent the 1 child who dies every 5 minutes as a result of violence'. In her caption, the 31-year-old explained: 'That nail starts a conversation. A conversation that inspires a donation. A donation that allows for prevention and protection.' 'The nail starts a conversation': Bachelorette Georgia Love has used her star power to draw attention to a charity which aims to end violence against children Georgia added in her caption: 'Proud to be Polished. For the fourth year, @leeroyelliott and I are honoured to be ambassadors for @polishedman to help end violence against children.' Addressing their painted fingernail, she continued: 'That nail starts a conversation. A conversation that inspires a donation. A donation that allows for prevention and protection. 'Help us by donating to our fundraising page or signing up and starting your own. 'It shouldn't hurt to be a child': Throwing their support behind the charity Polished Man, the former TV star and her fiance Lee Elliott painted one fingernail blue to 'represent the 1 child who dies every 5 minutes as a result of violence' Personal woes: Georgia's charitable actions comes after she revealed she was forced to cancel her Tasmanian wedding plans after cancelling her initial lavish Italian wedding 'It only ends when no child suffers from violence. Because it shouldnt hurt to be a child. Nail it to end it.' Georgia's charitable actions comes after she revealed she was forced to cancel her Tasmanian wedding plans after cancelling her initial lavish Italian wedding. Speaking to The Herald Sun, she said: 'We have set a (wedding) date next year and are forging ahead hoping it is going to happen as we want it to.' Speaking to The Herald Sun, she said: 'We have set a (wedding) date next year and are forging ahead hoping it is going to happen as we want it to' 'We had planned an entire wedding for Italy and that has just gone completely out of the window,' she said. 'We then planned a wedding for Tasmania and that date has now changed.' Georgia chose Lee in the finale of The Bachelorette in 2016 and the pair announced their engagement in 2019 Motorola Razr 5G launches today in India. The new 2020 Motorola Razr 5G was unveiled with upgraded specifications and some minor tweaks in the design. Motorola Razr 5G India launch event will be hosted online, details of which have been shared below. Motorola Razr 5G launch in India: Where to watch the livestream Motorola Razr 5G India launch event begins today at 12 pm IST. As mentioned above, the company will be hosting the 2020 Motorola Razr 5G launch via an online-only event on YouTube and other social media accounts. You can click on the YouTube link below to watch the Motorola Razr 5G launch livestream today at 12 pm in India. The Motorola Razr 5G price in India along with its availability details will also be announced at the launch event. Also Check: Motorola Razr 5G vs Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5G Motorola Razr 5G specifications The 2020 Motorola Razr 5G has not received a massive upgrade over its predecessor. The most significant upgrade is in the performance unit, which now features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor for 5G connectivity. Motorola has also bumped up the RAM to 8GB RAM and increased the storage to 256GB. The battery inside the Razr is now a 2,800 mAh cell, which is an improvement over the original Razrs 2,510 mAh capacity. The USP of Motorola Razr 5G is its clamshell design with a folding screen. It continues to feature two screens - one on the inside and one of the cover display. The 2.7-inch cover display can now run any app, unlike the first generation Razr that had limited functionality. On the inside, there is a 6.7-inch Flex View Display with a 21:9 aspect ratio. The fingerprint scanner, which was housed on the big chin of the original Razr, has been moved on the rear side. For optics, the cover screen houses a higher resolution 48MP single camera, compared to the original Razrs 16MP lens. Above the taller 6.7-inch display is a 20MP front camera. FOREST HILLS, QUEENS On Monday, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Forest Hills has been added to the city's coronavirus watchlist. In a news conference, the mayor urged Forest Hills residents to get tested for the coronavirus and double down on prevention efforts. De Blasio said the 11375 ZIP Code, which makes up Forest Hills, has seen a 1.95 percent positivity rate in coronavirus tests over the last seven days. Areas are not subject to restrictions until they surpass 3 percent over seven consecutive days, but areas with positivity between 1 and 3 percent are monitored closely. The best way to avoid ending up in a restricted areas, de Blasio said, is to get tested and "follow all those basic health and safety rules." Dr. Ted Long, Executive Director of the city's Test & Trace Corps, said coronavirus testing resources are being diverted to high-risk communities. At least 10 test sites are located throughout Forest Hills. You can find a test site near you online. "To everyone in those areas," the mayor said. "Please go get tested so we can get the truth about whats happening in your neighborhood. The more people that get tested, the better picture we get." All told, 10 areas are on New York City's watchlist: Brooklyn 11218 Kensington/Windsor Terrace 11213 Crown Heights (East) 11205 Bedford-Stuyvesant (West)/Clinton Hill/Fort Greene 11211 and 11249 East Williamsburg/Williamsburg (North)/Williamsburg (South) 11234 Bergen Beach/Flatlands/Marine Park/Mill Basin 11235 Brighton Beach/Manhattan Beach/Sheepshead Bay Queens 11374 Rego Park 11365 Auburndale/Fresh Meadows/Momonok/Utopia 11366 Fresh Meadows/Hillcrest 11432 Hillcrest/Jamaica Estates/Jamaica Hills This article originally appeared on the Forest Hills Patch :BEAVER, Pa. Conor Lamb mingled with a group of electricians on a Saturday morning last month. As they sipped coffee and munched on doughnuts in the fall fresh air, he asked them to tune out the chaos of the 2020 election. The freshman Democratic congressman and the union members were talking about Social Security and prescription-drug prices during a week in which President Donald Trump continued to undermine confidence in mail ballots with false claims of fraud and leveled fresh warnings about a looming threat of violence in Americas suburbs. Lamb, who has a thin build, sandy brown hair, and a boyish smile, grabbed the microphone and told the workers who had gathered in the parking lot outside their union hall that they have a clear choice to make. The other sides offering chaos. Theyre offering civil war in America. Lets make this real clear, Lamb, 36, said as he stood on the back of a camper parked on the edge of the lot. Were offering more of your own money. Plus dentures and glasses and hearing aids. That sounds like a pretty good idea to me. The small crowd of burly electricians chuckled. Lamb represents Pennsylvanias 17th Congressional District, which covers conservative, blue-collar Beaver County and suburbs of Pittsburgh in Allegheny County. Hes staking his reelection on a slate of kitchen-table issues like expanding access to health care and protecting pensions the same type of campaign that propelled him to an unlikely victory two years ago when he won a special election in a different district that Trump carried by 19 points. His opponent Sean Parnell is making the opposite bet. Parnell, a 41-year-old retired Army captain who earned a Bronze Star for valor, has built his campaign around attacking Lamb, who is also a veteran. He assails Lamb for working with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, for pledging to support gun owners while not advancing the NRAs agenda, and for not criticizing quickly or loudly enough the looting that accompanied mostly peaceful protests after the Minneapolis police killing of George Floyd. He often criticizes Lamb for voting to impeach Trump. In a sense, each man mirrors the presidential candidates atop their party tickets, in a district thats being closely watched as a bellwether for a state that could decide the election. Lamb thinks Joe Bidens approach to winning over voters in this politically divided swath of Western Pennsylvania should look a lot like his own, and hes emerged as a top surrogate for Biden. Lamb stood by Biden in Pittsburgh when he unveiled his economic recovery plan in July, and he led the campaigns response in Pennsylvania to an explosive report last month that Trump called Americans who died at war suckers and losers. (Trump has denied that.) Biden campaigned for me when there werent a lot of people who believed I could win, Lamb said during an interview on his front lawn in Mount Lebanon, one of the South Hills suburbs he represents. And I got behind him early because I believe hes the best candidate for Western Pennsylvania. Parnell declined to be interviewed. READ MORE: Biden ends his Amtrak tour with a message for blue-collar Pa. voters: Trump doesnt have a plan to help you Lambs relationship with the states labor unions has been critical to his success and could be vital to Bidens hopes of outperforming Hillary Clinton in this part of the state. Biden spent much of his Amtrak train tour in Western Pennsylvania last week speaking with union workers and collecting endorsements from their locals. He even won the backing of the conservative operating engineers union, which Trump also sought. Labor unions think the same way military officers do, said Lamb, who served as a judge advocate in the Marine Corps. That youre only as fast as your slowest Marine, that youve got to look out for the welfare of everybody, that no one gets left behind. In Congress, Lamb has advocated for labor priorities like infrastructure spending and the Butch Lewis Act, which would create a Pension Rehabilitation Administration within the Treasury Department and allow failing pension plans to borrow money to stay solvent. That initiative stalled in the Republican-controlled Senate after passing the House with bipartisan support. Here in the parking lot outside the Beaver County electricians union hall, as wind whipped off the nearby Ohio River, Frank Snyder, a third-generation steelworker and the secretary-treasurer of the Pennsylvania AFL-CIO, expressed regret that organized labor didnt do more to lift Clinton in this part of the state. All elections have what? Snyder asked. Consequences! the electricians shouted back through their face masks, in a call-and-response Snyder had clearly led before. What are the consequences of four years ago? he asked rhetorically. Last night, we lost a real fighter, Snyder went on, referring to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburgs death the day before and Trumps rush to fill her seat on the Supreme Court. Thats a consequence. When tens of millions of dollars for television attack ads poured into the special election Lamb narrowly won in March 2018, it was union members, he said, who led a barrage of calls and door-knocking on his behalf. Labor leaders are always one of my first calls on an issue because I know that they represent the people who are there when the rubber meets the road, who are really in the trenches, Lamb said. Parnell, meanwhile, has tethered himself to Trump appearing on stage with him at a rally just outside Pittsburgh last month and delivering a prime-time Republican National Convention speech in August. Parnell is betting that Republicans who voted for Trump in 2016 and then gave Lamb a chance will abandon him this year. With four more years, imagine what we can achieve by simply working with our president, Parnell said in his convention speech. The district, which was redrawn by the state Supreme Court after Lambs special election win, has yet to attract the flood of political spending Lamb saw two years ago. Both campaigns spent under $1 million each on the airwaves between June and September, according to the ad-tracking firm Advertising Analytics. And so far, neither partys House campaign arms, nor the main outside groups that boost the partys candidates, has bought TV time. READ MORE: Women in Pittsburghs wealthy suburbs could help Biden beat Trump in Pennsylvania Lamb had just purchased his grandmothers house and was settling into his role as a federal prosecutor in Pittsburgh in 2017 when he learned that eight-term Rep. Tim Murphy had resigned after text messages revealed he pressured his partner to have an abortion. Many of Murphys constituents were conservative Trump voters, but the seat was open, and Lamb saw an opportunity. Conors decision to run was anything but the fulfillment of some strategy, said Fred Thieman, a former U.S. attorney in Pittsburgh and one of Lambs mentors. It was more like getting hit by lightning. During that campaign, Lamb talked about issues like the cost of prescription drugs. He didnt talk much about Trump, even though the race was seen in national political circles as a referendum on the president. Hes not dwelling on Trump this year, either. In a televised debate with Parnell last month, Lamb invoked Trumps name only once, during an exchange about the presidents effort to dismantle the Affordable Care Act. Lamb also avoids mentioning the president in conversations with voters a tack he thinks can work for Biden, too. I want them to tell me whats important to them, whats going on in their lives, what they want me to work on, he said. I dont think a discussion of President Trump in that context is helpful, and Ive noticed they almost never bring him up, either. READ MORE: Biden has a clear lead over Trump in all-important Pennsylvania as the 2020 election enters the homestretch In 2007, when President George W. Bush sent a surge of troops to Iraq, Lambs former high school and college classmates were being deployed. The military needed lawyers, too, so he joined the Marine Corps. I knew the Marines would be the toughest branch to join, and I kind of wanted to know if I could pass the test, Lamb said. Bidens son Beau also served as a military lawyer. When the former vice president campaigned for Lamb two years ago, he paid him the ultimate compliment at a rally the week before the election, remarking that Lamb reminded him of his late son, who died from brain cancer. With Beau and with Conor, its about the other guy, Biden said. Parnell led an infantry platoon in Afghanistan during the hunt for Osama bin Laden and later chronicled his experience in a best-selling memoir. He often commends his soldiers' bravery. In the face of death, I saw ordinary Americans become heroes, Parnell said during his RNC speech. In 2010, Lamb was stationed at a base in Japan, where one of his first assignments was among the toughest of his career: prosecuting sexual-assault cases. This was before the military started to take accusations of sexual assault more seriously. Charges were rarely filed, and when cases were prosecuted, they often resulted in acquittal. Lambs unit had been on a bad losing streak when he joined the team. Marines are told you dont get to pick what your job is, but whatever it is, its going to be difficult, and we want you to be excellent at it, Lamb said. This assignment was the first time I got to live through that. With training on how to build and prosecute sexual-assault cases in the military justice system, Lamb and his team started getting convictions and gaining the trust of victims. A lot of it is common sense and listening, really listening to what the victim has to say and letting them know that you believe them and that youre going to take it seriously and try to prove the truth, Lamb said. Last month, as the sun sank behind the trees that line Lambs yard in Mount Lebanon, he reminisced about a constituent he met two years ago in Washington, Pa. The mans career as a school custodian had ended abruptly when he tore cartilage in his shoulder while lifting heavy garbage cans to load a dumpster. He suffered lasting damage, but he managed to find other work. He told Lamb he was counting on Social Security when he retires. As their conversation ended, Lamb said, the man took out his big janitor key ring, grabbed Lambs hand, and pressed something into his palm. It was his dog tag from serving in Korea. He was a veteran, too. He looked me dead in the eye and said, When you get down there, dont break your promise to us, Lamb recalled. 'Protect Social Security. Its all I have.' I think about him all the time now. Google Pixel 4a and Apple iPhone SE. (PHOTO: Paolo Lacuna/Yahoo Lifestyle SEA) Our editorial team is dedicated to finding and telling you more about the products and deals we love. If you love them too and decide to purchase through the links below, we may receive a commission. Prices were correct at the time of publication. Why not sign up for Amazon Prime today to enjoy free shipping and exclusive deals! For Prime Day only, take 10% off the Google Pixel 4a 5G at Amazon Singapore (now S$449). By: Paolo Lacuna Google caused quite a stir with its recent launch of the Google Pixel 5 and the surprising Google Pixel 4a 5G. Well do a review of these new phones from Google when they become available in Singapore soon. It may be confusing, but the Google Pixel 4a 5G packed more functions than the 4a other than the 5G connectivity - a more powerful processor, bigger screen, different camera setup and is more expensive. In this article, well cover the Pixel 4a and its direct competitor, the Apple iPhone SE. The mid-range phone category has a wide selection of affordable phones from many brands, and the Google Pixel 4a and the iPhone SE stand tall among the heap. The Google Pixel 4a is priced at S$499 and the iPhone SE is starting at S$649 both phones are on the high-end range of budget phones. If youre looking for a phone refresh but dont want to spend on a premium flagship, these two phones wont disappoint. The TLDR - The Google Pixel 4a comes equipped with a fantastic camera and sharp, colourful display but with a mid-range processor. The iPhone SE is beautifully built, albeit a dated design, and delivers amazing performance with a flagship-grade processor. Were here to help you decide what phone fits your lifestyle. Apple iPhone SE vs. Google Pixel 4a. (PHOTO: Paolo Lacuna/Yahoo Lifestyle SEA) The Pixel 4a is the follow-up to the well-received Pixel 3a last year. The expected improvements include a newer chipset, more RAM and storage, packed in a modern notch-less design. With the recent update to Android 11, the Pixel 4a flies with a clean Android build. And with a fully capable 12-megapixel camera, this will satisfy most users. But youll have to settle with a mid-range Snapdragon 730 processor, that while it is capable, it isnt the most powerful chipset this year. Story continues The Apple SE The Apple SE comes with the A13 Bionic, the same chipset found in the current Apple iPhones, giving it a flagship-level performance. The reliable 12-megapixel camera also takes great photos and videos. There is wireless charging, and the glass back feels as premium as any modern iPhone, but youll have to settle for a design thats so 2017. Elegant vs Pragmatic Design Choices Much like the story of both brands, Apples penchant for quality and elegance can be seen in the premium finish of the iPhone SEs glass body. At the same time, Googles pragmatism is emphasised by a no-nonsense matte polycarbonate body. The iPhone SE also has more colour options for you - Black, White and (Product) Red, and the Pixel 4a only comes in Just Black, with a powder blue power button as a single colour accent. The Pixel 4as 5.81-inch, 1080p OLED screen has better resolution and pixel density than that of the iPhone SEs 4.7-inch, 750p LCD screen. Also looking great on the Pixel 4a is a tiny punch-hole for the selfie cam. The Apple iPhone SE looks exactly like the iPhone 8 of 2017. Both phones can be unlocked with a fingerprint, with the iPhone SEs fingerprint scanner located at the front home button, and the Pixel 4as scanner at the rear. Overall, the Pixel 4a is a modern-looking smartphone, with a great screen and front-facing camera implementation, but made with practical materials. The iPhone SE may look dated, but its still a familiar design with an elegant, premium feel. The Internal No doubt that the iPhone SE has the superior chipset with the flagship-grade A13 Bionic. The iPhone SE glides through every app. Even gaming performance runs great with the iPhone SE, although the smaller screen does make it challenging. And with the new iOS 14, widgets perform well and look great on screen. The Pixel 4a, even with the mid-range Snapdragon 730 Chipset, performs great on most apps. It does show a performance dip when gaming, but nothing game-breaking. And being a Pixel phone, the 4a receives the newest Android 11 software ahead of other Android phones. With virtually no bloatware in the Pixel 4a, the experience is clean and speedy. The battery on the Pixel 4a at 3140 mAh nearly doubles that of the iPhone SEs 1,821 mAh, although both phones barely last a full day of use. The iPhone SE has wireless charging, but the Pixel 4a comes with a fast charger at 18W. Selfie comparison. (PHOTO: Paolo Lacuna/Yahoo Lifestyle SEA) Camera Both phones only have a single camera, with the Pixel 4a using a 12.2 Megapixel camera with a 1.7 aperture, and the iPhone with a 12 Megapixel camera with a slightly larger aperture at 1.8. The Selfie camera on the Pixel 4a A has 8 megapixels with 2.0 aperture, and the iPhone SE has 7 megapixels with 2.2 aperture. Both are very capable, using software to enhance the photos. Most buyers will stick to the standard camera setup, and so did we, when we tested these phones. With portrait shots, the Pixel 4a does a good job focusing on the subject, and with a stronger bokeh effect. The iPhone SE produces shots that are brighter and have a more saturated colour. However, the iPhone SE has some trouble locking into a non-human subject for portrait shots. Both phones only support digital zoom. The Pixel 4a supports up to 7x and can capture far more details than the iPhone SEs 5x zoom. Selfies on the Pixel 4a has a slightly wider angle, capturing more. The iPhone SE has a tighter shot and deeper colours. Both can isolate the subject well enough to produce great bokeh effects. Night shots comparison. (PHOTO: Paolo Lacuna/Yahoo Lifestyle SEA) On night shots, this is where the Pixel 4a pushes ahead of the iPhone SE. The Pixel 4a, with its night sight feature, can simulate more light, giving a brighter, clearer and more detailed photo than the iPhone SE. Videos and video stabilisation are interesting though, with the iPhone SE able to capture more colours and details, but the stabilisation looks slightly wobbly. The Pixel 4a though, while theres a bit of noise on in the video, has better stabilisation. In both test videos, we used 1080p with 60 frames per second. Testing the same for Selfie videos, the Pixel 4a does better with stabilisation and with capturing details. Overall, both phones have great cameras for their price, and any user will be happy with the results. The Pixel 4a has a bit of an edge, with excellent night sight performance. If vlogging videos are your style, then the Pixel 4a is your phone. But if you do take more videos with the main cameras, the iPhone SE may be a better choice. Digital zoom comparison. (PHOTO: Paolo Lacuna/Yahoo Lifestyle SEA) Final Thoughts Both the Google Pixel 4a and the Apple iPhone SE are great mid-range phones. Both have high marks for performance, camera and even quality and build. But for most customers who seek mid-range, affordable phones, value for every dollar spent is key. The Apple iPhone SE starts at S$649 for the 64GB variant, S$719 for the 128GB variant. The Google Pixel 4a only has 128GB and is priced at S$499. So comparing pricing at the same storage capacity, the iPhone SE is S$220 more expensive than the Google Pixel 4a. And then theres the ecosystem and operating system. The new iOS 14 finally catches up to Android by allowing the use of widgets and deeper customisations to the home screen. And since most apps or app alternatives are found in both Google Playstore and the Apple Appstore, picking either phone gives you the freedom to personalise your experience. This changes, though, if your peripheral devices are dependent on one ecosystem or platform, like the Apple Watch. While both phones are easy recommendations, the Google Pixel 4a is a more compelling choice - a great camera, sharp, high-resolution screen and wallet-friendly price. READ MORE: Enjoy Amazon.sg first Prime Day with these Beauty & Lifestyle deals Enjoy huge savings on your baby, home and kitchen needs at Amazon Prime Day Now's your chance to own the DIY beauty device celebs are crazy about 2020's top handbag trends to know now The handbag Kate Middleton owns in two colours is currently on sale The ultimate Eat Play Love guide Singapore 2020 edition By Denis Dumo JUBA (Reuters) - Sudans power-sharing government and several rebel groups on Saturday formalised a peace agreement aimed at resolving decades of conflict which left millions displaced and hundreds of thousands dead. Three major groups signed a preliminary deal in August - two factions from the western region of Darfur and one from the southern region - after months of talks hosted by South Sudan. Another powerful rebel group, the Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement-North led by Abdelaziz al-Hilu, which had not participated in initial peace negotiations, agreed last month to join new talks hosted by South Sudan. Dancers from Darfur and the Nile states performed on the stage before the signing in Juba. The U.S. Special Envoy to Sudan and South Sudan, Donald Booth, said: "This historic achievement addresses decades of conflicts and suffering, it will also require firm and unwavering commitment to implement the agreement fully and without delays." The presidents of Ethiopia and Chad and the prime ministers of Egypt and Uganda were among regional officials and politicians at the event. Tut Gatluak, the South Sudanese chief mediator, said ahead of Saturday's ceremony that the goal was eventually to sign deals with all armed groups. Sudan has been wracked by conflict for decades. After the oil-rich south seceded in 2011, an economic crisis fuelled protests that led to the overthrow of president Omar Hassan al-Bashir in 2019. Sudan's new civilian and military leaders, who have shared power since then, say ending conflicts is a top priority. The deal sets out terms to integrate rebels into the security forces, be politically represented and have economic and land rights. A new fund will pay $750 million a year for 10 years to the impoverished southern and western regions and the chance of return for displaced people is also guaranteed. Analysts have welcomed the agreement but questioned the prominent role given to armed groups and the military. (Writing by Giulia Paravicini; Editing by Katharine Houreld, William Maclean and Giles Elgood) A sudden spike in COVID-19 deaths in Bali has sparked fears the holiday island will be among the last destinations Australians can travel to. The typically-bustling resort area of Kuta is now a ghost town, with virus cases soaring after domestic tourism was opened back up on July 31. At the point Bali's active coronavirus cases sat at 1,914 before climbing to 3,671 in September. Meanwhile deaths increased six-fold with 207 last month. In July, Bali's active coronavirus cases sat at 1914 before soaring to 3671 in September The typically-bustling resort area of Kuta now resembles a ghost town, while the virus continues to spread due to domestic tourism starting back up Confirmed cases are believed to be only a fraction of actual COVID-19 infections, with Indonesia's testing rate among the lowest in the world. 'We don't know where is the virus actually, how to control it,' local epidemiologist Professor Gusti Ngurah Mahardika told 9News. The rise in deaths and case numbers has led to concerns Australians won't be allowed to travel to the party hotspot, with some suggesting tough new restrictions were imminent. 'Bali should be back in lockdown,' Professor Mahardika said. Local business owners are feeling the pinch from the tourism decline. More than 1,200 tourists would normally visit Waterbom Bali's water slides everyday, but due to the pandemic the theme park is temporarily closed. The virus has spread quicker in recent months as Indonesians are now allowed to move between islands The popular Indonesian tourist island began welcoming domestic tourists back on July 31 after its tourism industry was smashed by the pandemic (Pictured: Healthcare workers take blood sample from citizen) 'Tourists gave people a life and it's so sad,' CEO Sayan Gulino said. Driver and father-of-three Wayan Arcayasa was forced to sell his car just to make ends meet. 'Very, very sad honestly because we never know why the virus hit the world and hit us in tourism especially,' he said. Bali began welcoming domestic tourists back after its tourism industry was smashed by the pandemic. And while authorities have put restrictions in place to slow the spread of the deadly disease, the number of cases has continued to rise. Bali now has the fastest-rising death rates from coronavirus in Indonesia. Estimates show numbers have increased by 500 per cent since the island reopened, with 241 COVID-19 related deaths recorded. Local epidemiologist Dr I Gusti Ngurah Kade Mahardika said reopening the island to Indonesian tourists from outside Bali was to blame. 'Bali's reopening has caused a public euphoria for local residents. They think Bali is open now so they're free to do anything and they flock to tourist destinations,' he told the ABC. Each day about 4,000 domestic tourists from Indonesia's mainland flood to the island, which has been fuelling the crisis, Dr Mahardika said. More than 307,000 people have contracted coronavirus in Indonesia, while 11,200 have died. Meanwhile, The Morrison government has piled pressure on states to agree to a national coronavirus-hotspot definition by setting up a limited travel bubble with New Zealand. From October 16, Kiwis will be allowed to enter NSW and the Northern Territory without having to quarantine. Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said signing up to the hotspot definition allowed those jurisdictions to be included in the deal. From October 16, Kiwis will be allowed to enter NSW and the Northern Territory without having to quarantine. Pictured: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern He said exempting New Zealanders from mandatory two-week hotel stays would free up 325 quarantine places a week. 'This trans-Tasman bubble means that there are going to be more places open for more Australians to come home from abroad,' the Nationals leader told reporters in Canberra on Friday. Extending the bubble to Queensland would free up a further 250 hotel spots, he said. The hotspot definition means people from New Zealand are not allowed to enter Australia if they have been anywhere which has recorded more than three cases in three days. South Australia is likely to be the next to join the bubble when its government signs up to the hotspot definition. STORY LINK Pound Swedish Krona (GBP/SEK) Exchange Rate Rangebound as Concerns Grow Over Swedens Economy GBP/SEK Exchange Rate Steady as Swedens Economic Slump Wont Be Over Until 2023 Pound (GBP) Steady as Brexit Uncertainty Remains The UK service sector showed encouraging resilience in September, with business activity continuing to grow solidly despite the governments Eat Out to Help Out scheme being withdrawn. GBP/SEK Outlook: Lack of Brexit Progress Could Drag Down Sterling Like this piece? Please share with your friends and colleagues: The Pound to Swedish Krona (GBP/SEK) exchange rate held steady today, with the pairing currently trading around 11.546kr.The Swedish Krona (SEK) held steady today despite news that Swedens economy could shrink less-than-expected in 2020.According to the National Institute of Economic Research, the economy would shrink by 3.4% instead of Augusts forecast of a 4.8% shrinkage.Ylva Heden Westerdahl, the National Institute of Economic Researchs Forecast Chief, commented:We are now seeing clear signs that there will be a strong rebound during the third quarter of this year.However, Westerdahl was also downbeat, saying:It will take time before we are back to normal levels. The slump won't be over until 2023. The recovery that we're seeing is fragile.Swedish Krona (SEK) investors are also worried that the final months of 2020 could severely compromise the economy.Sterling is rangebound against the Swedish Krona today as Brexit uncertainty continues following this weekends video conference between Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the European Commissions President Ursula von der Leyen.Boris Johnson said that the UK would survive without a UK-EU trade deal, sparking concerns that Downing Street appears so unfazed by the possibility of a hard-Brexit later this year.Today saw the release of the latest UK Services PMI for September. The gauge beat forecasts rising from 55.1 to 56.1.Chris Williamson, the Chief Business Economist at IHS Markit, commented on the report:In other UK economic data, this evening will see the publication of the latest BRC Retail Sales report for September. If this shows a marked downturn in the UKs retail sector, then GBP would suffer.Swedish Krona (SEK) investors will be awaiting tomorrows release of the latest Swedish industrial and manufacturing value and orders figures.Any improvement in Swedens economy would bolster confidence in the Swedish currency.GBP traders will be looking ahead to tomorrows release of Septembers UK Markit Construction PMI.Any indications of a flagging UK construction sector would prove GBP-negative.The GBP/SEK exchange rate could remain subdued this week if Brexit uncertainty continues to haunt UK markets. If there is a general lack of progress in UK-EU Brexit debates, however, we could see Sterling begin to fall. International Money Transfer? Ask our resident FX expert a money transfer question or try John's new, free, no-obligation personal service! ,where he helps every step of the way, ensuring you get the best exchange rates on your currency requirements. TAGS: Pound Sterling Forecasts Britain's Home Secretary, Priti Patel, addresses the delegates at last year's Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, England, on Oct. 1, 2019. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein) British Government Says It Will Fix Fundamentally Broken Asylum System The British government vowed on Sunday to stop people entering the country illegally and fix its fundamentally broken asylum system. Addressing the Conservative Party annual conference, Home Secretary Priti Patel said a new British points-based immigration system will stop the abuse of the rules, and hasten the removal of those who have no legitimate claim for protection. Patel said that a firm and fair asylum system should protect the vulnerable and provide safe haven to those fleeing persecution, oppression or tyranny. But, ours doesnt, she said. Patel said those in genuine need are stuck awaiting asylum decisions in a broken system that costs the taxpayer over a billion pounds ($1.3 billion) a year. Taking the Country For a Ride While elbowing the most vulnerable to the side, she said, the current asylum system allows those who have entered the country via an international criminal trade to take the country for a ride and make endless legal claims at the expense of the British public. The time is long overdue, she said, for the government to be able to control who enters Britain. For the first time in decades, the British government will determine who comes in and out of our country, she said. We will welcome people based on the skills they have to offer and the contribution they can make. The governments stance on immigration has met with criticism from the left. Opposition Labour Party immigration spokesman Nick Thomas-Symonds said the Conservatives were devoid of compassion and competence on immigration. Patel, however, spoke out strongly against critics from the left and also against lawyers who defend illegal immigrants. Grand Theories about Human Rights No doubt those who are well-rehearsed in how to play and profit from the broken system will lecture us on their grand theories about human rights. And yet, they seem to care little about the rights of the most vulnerable who are fleeing persecution, oppression, and tyranny, she said. Do not let them [the Labour Party] peddle a false narrative that Conservatives do not have a proud history of providing a safe haven to those most in need. As for those defending the broken systemthe traffickers, the do-gooders, the leftie lawyers, the Labour Partythey are defending the indefensible, she added. In this aerial image from a drone, an empty migrant dinghy floats off the beach at St Margarets Bay after the occupants landed from France in Dover, England on Sept. 11, 2020. (Christopher Furlong/Getty Images) Patel said the British asylum system would take time to overhaul but in the meantime, operational measures to combat illegal immigration would continue apace. We will continue to hunt down the criminal gangs who traffic people into our country, she said. I will continue to use the full force of our outstanding National Crime Agency and intelligence agencies to go after them. We will make more immediate returns of those who come here illegally and break our rules, every single week, Patel added. Deterrents Migrants have long used northern France as a launching point to reach Britain by stowing away in trucks or on ferries. Many appear to have turned to small boats organized by smugglers during the CCP virus pandemic because virus restrictions have reduced vehicle traffic between France and Britain. Patels speech follows reports in recent weeks that the government considered ideas including building a wave machine in the Channel to deter boats and processing asylum-seekers on Ascension Island, a remote volcanic island more than 4,000 miles from Britain. The government dismissed some of the more far-fetched claims, but Patel said she would explore all practical measures and options to deter illegal migration. The new British points-based immigration system, which aims to attract the brightest and best talent to the country and benefit the British economy, is due to start in January next year following the end of freedom of movement with the European Union due to Brexit. Irish citizens can currently freely enter and live in Britain and will be able to continue to do so. The Conservative Party annual conference, which ends on Oct. 6, is a virtual rather than an in-person conference due to restrictions put in place to slow the spread of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, commonly known as novel coronavirus. The Associated Press contributed to this report Twenty years ago, the movie character Erin Brockovich strutted into the hearts of Americans in a high heel pump with even higher teased hair. Played by Julia Roberts, the doggedly determined legal assistant with a foul mouth and plunging neckline charmed audiences across the country. The eponymous Hollywood blockbuster was based on a real-life heroine, who today says she still feels extremely overwhelmed with the fame the film brought her. Let me be the first to tell you that life takes an interesting turn when your name becomes a verb, Brockovich, 60, writes in the introduction of her new book, Supermans Not Coming. To Erin Brockovich something has become synonymous with investigating and then advocating for a cause without giving up. And giving up she hasnt. In Erin Brockovich, the character goes up against energy giant Pacific Gas and Electric Company over its culpability for groundwater contamination in the small town of Hinkley, California. Real-life Brockovich was around 30 at the time the case began in 1991 and 40 when the film came out in 2000. Now, two decades and four grandkids later, she reflects on the films legacy and how today her fight is waging stronger than ever. I haven't stopped Ive gotten to feel more comfortable in my own skin with the situation over time, Brockovich told TODAY. I'm not Superwoman. I've learned to accept my flaws. I'm not perfect. I don't have the greatest education, but it's such empowerment to just be human. I just tried not to let the movie get ahead of me and just stay rooted in my own realities and not be too hard on myself. Before the movie, Brockovich, a self-described average divorced single mother trying to make a living, was seriously injured in a traffic accident. That fender bender brought her to the firm of lawyer Ed Masry, who represented her in that case. After winning, she still needed a job, so she took a position at his firm, paving the way for her groundbreaking work on the largest direct-action lawsuit in United States history. Story continues Activists Protest Possible Circumvention Of Superfund Compensation Law (Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images) She has come a long way from those humble beginnings. Today, she is president of her own research and consulting firm, host of her own podcast, and founder of the Erin Brockovich Foundation that educates and empowers communities in their fight for clean water. I can tell you, since that film came out, I haven't stopped doing what I've been doing, Brockovich said. I think the past 20 years in many ways have been baffling to me because if we go back to the town of Hinkley, California, in the movie, that was just the tip of the iceberg. And I don't think I realized what was to come, and to have this conversation with you 20 years into the future to say that it's not just as bad, it's far worse. And so little has been done. I couldn't really see then that it would be everywhere. Brockovich is referring to just how much our tap water is infiltrated by chromium-6, the cancer-causing heavy metal featured in the film. Nearly 200 million Americans across all 50 states are exposed to unsafe levels of chromium-6, according to a 2016 report released by the nonprofit research and advocacy organization Environmental Working Group. Brockovich says its still a massive issue, not only in this country but around the world. From Australia to Europe to Africa, she fields emails daily from concerned communities all over the globe who are trying to find solutions. It's an issue with contamination, lead, infrastructure," she said. "And again, in the book, we want people to see that communities rise and theyre rising because they are making this their jobs and seeking information. Having authored four books since the film's release, her latest identifies and describes the most toxic chemicals in everyday products, from shampoos and baby lotions to cell phones and Tupperware, with only a few hundred under regulation, among them asbestos, lead, mercury, radon and formaldehyde." But she paints a portrait of hope as well. The mom of three also tells the stories of people and communities that have made a difference in locations from Hannibal, Missouri, to Tonganoxie, Kansas, to Poughkeepsie, New York. It baffles my mind that there are still so many Hinkley, Californias out there. A scattering of obscenities During her formative years, Brockovich worked as a management trainee for Kmart, studied electrical engineering and won a Miss Pacific Coast beauty pageant. When the film came about, Brockovich also had the opportunity to act a little as well, making a cameo as a waitress in a restaurant scene. Im so embarrassed, I dont even have my boobs in yet. On set preparing for that scene was the first time she ever met Roberts, and their meeting was notable. When Roberts introduced herself to Brockovich, the Hollywood star followed up with, Im so embarrassed, I dont even have my boobs in yet. It was the ultimate icebreaker. The character Erin Brockovich presented a brashness to her that ended up making waves. Many critics commented on her use of colorful language in their reviews. Julia Roberts And Albert Finney Stars In The Movie Erin Brockovich Photo Universal (Getty Images / Getty Images) It contains a scattering of obscenities and sexual references and displays of female cleavage in the service of a noble cause, wrote New York Times critic A.O. Scott. Brockovich, who has claimed the film is 98% accurate, has always copped up to having a potty mouth. Despite the numerous f-bombs, the film ended up winning numerous awards. For her performance, Roberts won in the same year best actress honors at the Academy Awards, Screen Actors Guild Awards, BAFTA Awards, Critics' Choice Awards and the Golden Globes. (It's still the only Oscar that Roberts has ever received in her illustrious career.) And even though she was invited, Brockovich didnt end up making it to the Academy Awards that year. Why? She had a sick kid at home. I wouldnt have been there if it had not been for you. After Roberts won, many people criticized her for forgetting to thank the woman whose life and story got her to that podium. We always had these ideas and expectations that we put off on each other, Brockovich said of the backlash. I never thought a big deal about that until other people made it into a big deal. It was Julias moment and there was a whole lot of excitement happening for her. I was not offended. Actress Julia Roberts celebrates her Oscar win for (TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP via Getty Images) Roberts did, however, recognize the real-life Erin Brockovich backstage to reporters. I didn't acknowledge (Erin) shamefully, shamefully and really she's the center of the universe which was our movie, Roberts said. I've said so many things about her and so many things to her that she knows the esteem in which I hold her which is quite, quite high. But I was remiss in not acknowledging her tonight so with with great humility, I acknowledge her profusely. Brockovich recalled being floored when a florist came to her home the next day to deliver a bouquet so big that four people had to help bring it inside. With a beautiful box and caviar and just a lovely note saying, I wouldnt have been there if it had not been for you, she remembered. It was very thoughtful. I was very proud of her. Brockovich never thought the film would have the indelible impact that it has. Even though the last time she fully watched it was about a decade ago, she knows whenever it is on TV because she receives a barrage of texts from friends and family telling her so. She also is constantly reminded about the films influence during mundane visits to the bank or the dentists office, when people clock the name on her credit card and ask if she is the woman from that movie. On what she hopes people take away from the film in 2020, Brockovich said that the story isn't just about her but more so about everyday people everywhere who are able to achieve the incredible. Were living in a crazy world and a lot of negativity can get inside the ship, which is you, she said. If you let it, it will sink you. The most important thing you need to do it does not matter your gender, the color of your skin, the money you have in the bank account, your politics you have got to find your voice. And when you do find that strength, that belief, that love, that self-forgiveness right inside of you, you can do anything. It starts with you and believing that you are deserving, loving, forgiving yourself. So what if you aren't f---ing perfect? None of us are. Strip the f---ing label off of you that sometimes we put on ourselves. You dont need a hero to find you because it burns inside of you already. Said like the real Erin Brockovich. The Monday sought response of former Fortis Healthcare promotor Shivinder Mohan Singh on a plea challenging bail granted to him in a bank fraud case. The matter came up before Justice Anu Malhotra who asked Shivinder's counsel to respond to the plea by complainant Ltd (RFL) seeking quashing of trial court's orders granting him bail in the case and holding his bail application to be maintainable. The high court listed the matter for further hearing on November 11. RFL, represented through senior advocate Mohit Mathur, challenged the trial court's order saying Shivinder had scant regard for law and his own undertakings given to the court. The Supreme Court had held the respondent no. 2 (Shivinder) guilty of contempt and wilful disobedience of orders of the Supreme Court and the solemn undertakings given to this court on five occasions. "Therefore, his undertakings on the basis of which bail was granted were meaningless. While granting bail, the Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) failed to appreciate that there is likelihood of such a person violating any undertaking given to the ASJ and disobeying the bail conditions, the petition said. Despite grant of bail, Shivinder has not been able to be released from Tihar jail as his bail in another case opposed by the Enforcement Directorate is pending in the Supreme Court. He is also in judicial custody in another fraud case lodged by the Economic Offence Wing (EOW) of Delhi Police and the bail plea is pending in the high court. It is alleged by the police that Shivinder and his brother Malvinder Mohan Singh in connivance with the employees of Lakshmi Vilas Bank (LVB) misappropriated two Fixed Deposits (FD) of Rs 400 crore and Rs 350 crore made with the bank by the complainant company RFL. The police had said a probe was initiated after Manpreet Singh Suri of RFL had filed a complaint against the Singh brothers and their companies RHC Holding Ltd, Ranchem Pvt Ltd, and LVB and its then directors/employees. According to the police's statement, the complainant had alleged that in November 2016, RFL had placed an amount of Rs 400 crore in two fixed deposits (FDs) with LVB. These FDs were created by RFL for short-term tenor with an intention to keep them free from all and any encumbrance. Thereafter, in January 2017, RFL had placed an additional amount of about Rs 350 crore in another couple of FDs with LVB. These were short-term FDs and were renewed by RFL from time to time till their maturity date in July, 2017, it had stated. "However, on July 31, 2017, RFL was shocked to receive an email from LVB with accounts statement with respect to RFL's current account. RFL discovered that LVB had credited the proceeds of the FDs to RFL's current account and subsequently debited from RFL's current account cumulative amount of Rs 723,71,50,920 without any prior intimation to RFL," the police had said. "It is further alleged that LVB cheated RFL and misused its public shareholder money entrusted with LVB in its capacity as RFL's banker, thus causing wrongful loss to the complainant company to the tune of Rs 729 crores approximately," the police had also said in the statement. Shivinder was arrested in the case on January 1, 2020. RFL is a group firm of REL, which was earlier promoted by former Fortis Healthcare Promoters Malvinder and The EOW registered a separate FIR in March last year after it received a complaint from RFL's Manpreet Suri against Shivinder and others, alleging that loans were taken by them while managing the firm but the money was invested in other companies. (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.) Nearly one in two respondents (48%) believe banks in the UAE are doing an excellent job of helping them during the Covid-19 crisis, says a survey. YouGovs latest survey reveals high-income households earning AED40,000+ ($10,890) were more likely than the rest to say this (at 65%). 27% of residents, however, do not think banks are doing a good job in this regard. Among the various banks in the country, consumers banking with international banks were more likely to hold this view as compared to those engaging with regional banks (32% vs 17%). The data show at present consumers appear to be most interested in acquiring savings accounts (44% very interested) and least interested in personal loans (21% very interested), demonstrating a clear desire to protect current assets and a resistance to accumulating new debt obligations within the current financial environment. The Coronavirus outbreak has led to tectonic shifts in individuals personal financial situations. With plunging stocks and many people out of work, managing finances is a top priority among people. Amidst an environment of economic distress, banks in the UAE have rolled out a stimulus package offering financial relief to their customers and businesses. After Savings account, many are interested in increasing their investments in gold and other metals (37%), followed by pension schemes (34%). Financial prudence is observed even in terms of interest in banks relief offers where the largest proportion of respondents (30%) have either taken up or plan to take up offers related to basic financial responsibilities such as, Interest-free instalment plans for payments (e.g. school fees, utility bills, etc.). One in four (25%) have either already taken or plan to take advantage of New Credit Card with attractive offers (such as better cashback, extended limits, etc.), with men being more likely than women to say this (27% vs 20%). Comparatively, fewer are seeking relief offers concerning debts, such as relaxation on retail loans for those affected by Covid (21%) or new or refinanced home loans (13%). The Central Bank of the UAE has encouraged the citizens of the country to take advantage of digital and online banking services as a measure to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. Before Covid-19, a majority (62%) already preferred digital banking with only a quarter (24%) favouring traditional in-branch banking. The pandemic has accelerated digital transformation at banks, with 70% of those banking with major local and foreign banks claiming they are now using digital banking more, while 44% of respondents also said they are using traditional banking less. Among those using digital banking, 72% rated their digital banking experience during Covid-19 as Excellent or Very Good. It seems like digital banking is likely to grow further as 85% of those who had a positive experience claimed they would continue using online banking medium in the future as well. YouGov Omnibus data collected online among 1,000 respondents in the UAE between 9th and 15th September 2020 using YouGovs panel of over 6 million people worldwide. Data is representative of the adult national population in the UAE. Last weeks acrimonious shake-up at Hong Kongs controversial arts hub exposed a bitter row between the management and its governing board, raising new questions about the future of a 22-year-old project grappling with cost overruns and delays. Duncan Pescod, 61, a former Hong Kong civil servant who became CEO of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority five years ago, said he was being forced to step down at the end of November, nine months before his HK$5 million-a-year term expires, without being told why. Board members have retaliated, criticising his leadership in public and in private. Get the latest insights and analysis from our Global Impact newsletter on the big stories originating in China. In a radio interview on October 1, board member and pro-establishment politician Chris Ip Ngo-tung aired a long list of grievances, saying Pescod lacked financial discipline, among other failings, and the CEO took a cavalier approach to major changes in projects. Duncan Pescod says he is being forced to step down at the end of November. Photo: Edward Wong Elaborating, Ip told the Post that Pescods team failed to account for major crises, such as flooding and the appearance of a giant sinkhole at a construction site last year, and planned the allocation of resources poorly. The biggest problem is that the mutual trust between board members and him is no longer there, he said. Asked to respond, Pescod said in an email that he had nothing to add. The 40-hectare (98 acres) West Kowloon Cultural District, on the Victoria Harbour waterfront, is meant to make Hong Kong one of the worlds leading cultural destinations. The initial government grant for the project was HK$21.6 billion (US$2.8 billion), although some have said cost overruns could take the total investment past HK$70 billion. So far, its M+ Pavilion, Xiqu Centre, Freespace, and Art Park, are up and running. Cracks and sinkholes appear at a construction site for the Lyric Theatre Complex in the West Kowloon Cultural District. Photo: May Tse M+, the West Kowloon museum of visual culture, is now expected to open in Autumn 2021, the Post has learned, followed by the Hong Kong Palace Museum in 2022. The Lyric Theatre is expected to open in 2024. Story continues The authority has made the Music Centre a priority, but there is no schedule for construction to begin. Other plans, including for the Great Theatre, two black box theatres, a Music Theatre for musicals, and a medium theatre are either under review or subject to private sector funding. As venues opened and the number of successful collaborations has grown, the local arts community has moderated their initial scepticism about the massive project. However, with key components yet to be built and money running out, venues have been told to try and be financially sustainable. Ahead of its expected opening next year, M+ has been busy recruiting wealthy collectors into a founding circle of patrons and signing up corporate sponsorships for its first exhibitions. However, the authoritys operational deficits are expected to run into the billions in the next three years. The financial woes came into focus in August when the authority called off a tender to build arts, commerce and exhibition (ACE) facilities with a gross floor area of more than 135,000 square metres. That was because of poor market sentiments in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, a source said, and was not a fatal blow that led to the decision to oust Pescod. The team has failed to come up with a sustainable strategy to cover the running costs of the cultural venues. While the venues have never been intended to be moneymaking, a more entrepreneurial approach is expected, said the source, who is aware of the boards thinking. Covid-19, which decimated Hong Kongs tourism industry as world travel came to a standstill, has raised questions about the need for such ambitious infrastructure projects. For instance, what if in a post-pandemic world, the international travellers meant to be the arts destinations target audience no longer travel as much as before? And what if the district was simply too big to begin with? Lars Nittve, former director of M+, has suggested the grandiose concept of creating a world-class cultural district on 40 hectares never properly took practical constraints into consideration. To every professional person working with the West Kowloon project in construction, establishing cultural institutions or building collections it was pretty clear from early on that both the timetable and the budget were established not from what was professionally realistic, but what was politically most suitable or, perhaps, possible, said Nittve. The former executive director of M+, Lars Nittve, said the budget and timetable for the arts district were unrealistic. Photo: Jonathan Wong The Swedish museum director left M+ in 2016 after it became clear it could not open on schedule in 2017. However, he remains convinced the money was worth spending, and the district would benefit Hong Kong people for decades, and hopefully centuries. Business magnate Allan Zeman, chairman of the authoritys commercial letting panel, said it would be hard to make the whole district profitable. He said he believed the authority should complete projects already in the works and review its finances before starting construction of new venues. Crucially, that would mean delaying the Music Centre, a concert venue estimated to cost between HK$6 billion and HK$7 billion. The district still has the support of the private sector. Stewart Leung Chi-kin, a board member of the Real Estate Developers Association of Hong Kong, said developing commercial facilities there could still bring business opportunities, but much would depend on economic conditions. Pescods departure adds uncertainty to ongoing negotiations between the authority and some of Hong Kongs major performing arts groups the so-called big nine. Heidi Lee Oi-yee, executive director of Hong Kong Ballet, said her group intensified discussions with the authority this year about the use of the Lyric Theatre complex, expected to be completed in 2023. The pandemic reinforced our need to have a permanent home for rehearsals, she said. We also need space to offer more community education programmes. While not anticipating changes to the way arts groups deal with the authoritys performing arts division on a day-to-day basis, she was concerned a new CEO may set new financial targets that affect the venue space available to local groups. Marble Leung Tsz-ki, executive director of the Hong Kong Repertory Theatre, also said the new CEOs approach to resources would be the critical issue, adding he hoped the uncertainty brought on by Pescods departure would not delay the project further. I really believe that WKCD is crucial to the governments promise to turn Hong Kong into a major cultural hub, he said. We are already behind Taiwan and Singapore, which have managed to build and open large cultural venues in recent years. The authority has begun a global search for Pescods successor, while Betty Fung Ching Suk-yee, an aide of the citys leader, Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, is tipped to be interim CEO. Betty Fung Ching Suk-yee (right) is believed to be the front-runner for the authoritys interim CEO. Photo: Edmond So Fung, the director of the Policy Innovation and Coordination Office and a former head of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, was deeply involved in the early stages of the cultural district development. The authority did not respond to questions as to whether a candidate with local experience was preferred. As far as the board is concerned, the critical attributes of Pescods successor are transparency, accountability, and the ability to come up with creative ways to fund future projects, suggesting someone with an entrepreneurial, pragmatic bent would stand a better chance of getting the job. This article Bleeding billions, Hong Kong arts hub axes CEO, searches for new chief to steer project hit by delays, cost overruns first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2020. Donald Trump's senior campaign adviser said Sunday that the president is ready to lead the response against COVID-19 because he understands what people have gone through while battling the virus. In an interview with CNN, Jason Miller said that protocols at upcoming rallies won't change as Trump looks to build momentum and 'beat [COVID-19] as a country' in the weeks leading up to the November 3 election. Miller said: 'Importantly, when I was talking with the president just about 15 or 20 minutes ago, he said another thing that I found very telling. He said, I know what its like to go through this. Were going to beat this as a country. When I get out of here were going to be talking a lot about COVID and how we go and beat it as a country."' Scroll down for video Donald Trump's senior campaign adviser, Jason Miller (pictured) said Sunday that the president is ready to lead the response against COVID-19 because he understands what people have gone through while battling the virus 'I think theres a level of understanding as someone whose gone through it himself where he can relate with people, understanding people have gone through this covid virus, this China virus, that has hit us,' Miller, who defended Trump's actions, said. 'And this is the most important thing facing this country and president Trump is ready to lead on it,' he added. The senior campaign adviser was also asked about Trump's last-minute, surprise visit to his supporters outside the Walter Reed Medical Center on Sunday. Trump briefly left his hospital room to thank the cheering loyalists despite being infected with the coronavirus. The president was in an SUV and was driven by the screaming, applauding crowds. He waved to them from inside car and was wearing a face mask. Trump posted a video to his Twitter account shortly before his visit outside, indicating he was about to make the trip. Miller also defended Trump's last-minute, surprise visit to his supporters outside the Walter Reed Medical Center on Sunday (visit pictured) 'It's good to see him on the mend; good to send him on the rebound. And hes really been buoyed by the show of support from people who have been outside Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda and he wanted to as a sign of gratitude show folks that hes still fighting for them. 'Hes looking forward to getting back out on the campaign trail. And so in a very safe way he drove by and said, "Hi."' Miller said while the president has been recovering, he has also encouraged people to 'wash their hands, use hand sanitizer, make sure that if you can't socially distance to wear a mask'. 'And I thought that was a pretty important message to send and a reminder to the rest of the country,' Miller said. Miller was then asked if the Trump campaign would change up protocols for future rallies. Miller was then asked if the Trump campaign would change up protocols for future rallies (Trump in Minnesota on Wednesday). Miller said the campaign will continue to check temperatures and provide masks Before Trump contracted COVID-19, during the rallies attendees had their temperatures checked, face masks have been provided and people have been encouraged to use hand sanitizer. 'You know what, that's been a very safe and responsible thing to do,' Miller said. 'That's what we've done from the beginning of this.' Trump tested positive for the virus just days after going head-to-head with his Democratic rival Joe Biden during the first presidential debate last week. Several individuals who participated in Trump's debate prep, including former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and former White House Counselor Kellyanne Conway, tested positive for coronavirus. ISTANBUL NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with top Turkish officials in Ankara Monday, seeking to calm regional tensions and support de-confliction efforts in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. On Thursday, Stoltenberg announced the establishment of a 24/7 hotline between Turkey and Greece to reduce the risk of incidents and accidents between the NATO allies following disputes over contested areas of the eastern Mediterranean, where Turkish research ships escorted by Turkish navy vessels had conducted gas exploration activities before pulling back last month. The mechanism was achieved through the constructive engagement of Turkey and Greece at NATO Headquarters, Stoltenberg said at a press briefing in Ankara Monday. I welcome this and pay tribute to both allies for their efforts. The de-confliction mechanism can help to create the space for diplomatic efforts. Stoltenberg addressed reporters with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, who said the pair had discussed developments in conflicts ranging from Libya to Syria and Afghanistan. We, of course, do not want an accident to happen between allies, Cavusoglu said at the press briefing before thanking Stoltenbergs leadership in defusing regional tensions by bringing Greek officials to the negotiation table with Ankara. Stoltenberg also reiterated calls for a cease-fire between Armenia and Azerbaijan amid ongoing fighting in the contested Nagorno-Karabakh region, urging Turkish officials to use their considerable influence to calm tensions. The visit comes after a European Union summit concluded Friday in which bloc leaders said they would impose sanctions on Ankara if Turkish provocations continue in the eastern Mediterranean. While Turkish officials stated such a move would prove counterproductive, analysts said NATO-led mediation efforts between Turkey and Greece could prove more effective, as the allies stand on equal footing in the coalition, whereas EU-led mediation is more likely to favor Greece as an EU member state. NATO is a more symmetric institution in relation to both sides, Ilke Toygur, an analyst of european affairs at the Elcano Royal Institute and adjunct professor of political science at Carlos III University of Madrid, told Al-Monitor. She added, This gives the institution a comparative advantage for managing de-escalation in comparison to the European Union, where the situation is more asymmetric. Turkish and Greek military delegations have been conducting negotiations at the NATO headquarters in Brussels since Sept. 10. Though the seventh round of these talks was delayed for technical reasons Monday, mediators said they expected de-escalation efforts to continue. In regard to the EU de-escalate efforts, navigational data indicated Monday the Turkish Yavuz drillship was withdrawing from waters near Cyprus, where it had been operating in recent weeks. The news comes after the Republic of Cyprus withdrew its veto Friday on EU sanctions for Belarus over the states crackdown on pro-democracy protests. The European Commissions foreign policy spokesperson Peter Stano said the drillships relocation was an important signal that could help facilitate resolutions for longstanding disputes regarding overlapping territorial claims in the region. The departure constitutes another welcome step towards de-escalation in the eastern Mediterranean, Stano said Monday. We hope for similar and further moves in this direction, he said. Still, another Turkish research vessel, the Barbaros Hayrettin Pasa, remained off the southeastern coast of Cyprus Monday. In reviewing the outcome from last weeks summit, Toygur said the European Council appeared to be moving further toward a transitional relationship with Turkey. There were no mentions of accession negotiations, democratic backsliding or rule of law in the country in the [councils] conclusions, Toygur told Al-Monitor. What was offered was a simple give and take: Abstain from unilateral actions which run counter to the EU interests and the sovereign rights of EU member states, and in return we will launch a positive political EU-Turkey agenda. Another issue raised during Stoltenbergs visit was Turkeys 2019 purchase of Russian-made S-400 missile defense systems. The NATO chief said the S-400s may pose a risk to allied aircrafts and could not be integrated into NATO air and missile defense systems before urging Turkey to find alternative solutions. Speaking at the press briefing, Cavusolgu reiterated Ankara had to buy the S-400 because we were not able to get the Patriot or another air defense system from our allies, a claim some observers have disputed. It sounds like its an ongoing negotiation in the background, Sinem Adar, an associate at the Center for Applied Turkey Studies in the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, told Al-Monitor. Though Turkey has kept the S-400s over the last year without being subjected to US sanctions on the condition the missile system remains inactive, unconfirmed reports on Monday suggested US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had visited Greece last week after indications Turkey had activated S-400 radars on Aug. 27. If true, the move could trigger sanctions on Ankara under the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act, also known as CAATSA, but evidence of the event remains unsubstantiated at the time of reporting. We should think of all these conversations, particularly the eastern Mediterranean conflict, within the larger context of Turkeys increasingly militarized foreign policy and the decreasing patience in the EU together with the direct challenge to EU interests, Adar told Al-Monitor. Following the press briefing Monday, Stoltenberg was scheduled to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on the same day. The NATO chief will then meet with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou in Athens Tuesday. WASHINGTON - The State Department last month revoked the visa of a Ukrainian political fixer who aided President Donald Trump's personal attorney Rudolph Giuliani in his gambit last year to dig up information from Ukraine that would damage former vice president Joe Biden in the 2020 election, according to U.S. officials. The revocation of Ukrainian fixer Andrii Telizhenko's visa comes as U.S. officials crack down on Russian efforts to influence the November vote. The revocation, which hasn't previously been reported, came shortly before the Treasury Department sanctioned a different Ukrainian who was cooperating with Giuliani - lawmaker Andriy Derkach - and dubbed Derkach an "active Russian agent for over a decade" and said he was trying to interfere in the election, the U.S. officials said. Telizhenko was unable to board a Sept. 9 Ukrainian International Airlines flight from Kyiv to New York, according to a person familiar with his travel plans and a Ukrainian government official who, like others interviewed, spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the matter's sensitivity. Telizhenko accompanied Giuliani during a trip to Kyiv late last year, which included a meeting with Derkach. Derkach's visa was pulled by the State Department earlier this year. Both Ukrainians had been interacting regularly with Giuliani as the former New York mayor sought to obtain information from Ukraine that would help Trump's electoral chances. On Monday, in a statement on the Derkach designation, a spokesman for the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine said anyone who does business with a sanctioned person could be subject to sanctions. Derkach has not responded to requests for interviews since he was sanctioned. In a statement on Facebook, he described the U.S. action as a "preventive response to my next press conference. . . . It is revenge against me, as a representative of the team of investigators." The U.S. moves, officials say, show an administration willing to target people furthering Moscow's efforts to stoke political divisions in American society. They come despite the president's aversion to acknowledging the Kremlin's interference activities. A State Department spokeswoman declined to comment on Telizhenko's visa revocation. Giuliani didn't respond to phone calls and emails requesting comment. The Ukrainian ambassador to the United States, Volodomyr Yelchenko, praised the administration's actions against Derkach and Telizhenko. "They are just ruining our efforts to preserve bipartisan support for Ukraine," he said of the two Ukrainians in an interview. "They've tried to torpedo our relationship. When they come up with unsubstantiated stories to help one side on the eve of elections, that's concerning. I'm glad the United States has seen them for what they are." Telizhenko has denied involvement in Russian interference or disinformation operations and has denied working with Derkach, who has denied that he is a Russian agent. Telizhenko told The Washington Post several times over the past two weeks that he had no knowledge of his U.S. visa being revoked. "I didn't hear anything of that at all," he said. The State Department usually notifies an affected individual of a visa revocation, but as a rule does not make the information public. Telizhenko provided The Post with documentation purporting to show that he traveled from Kyiv to New York in September. However, a Ukrainian government official and another person familiar with his travel said he did not board that flight - the only flight from Kyiv to New York in September - and did not leave the country that month. Telizhenko declined requests to provide proof of his entry or his stay in the United States. He said that for "security reasons" he is shielding information about his movements. Telizhenko worked for the Ukrainian prosecutor general's office in Kyiv before moving to Washington in 2015 and getting a job at the embassy in Ukraine. He left in mid-2016 and went to work for a year for Blue Star Strategies, a Democratic-run lobbying firm. That firm represented Burisma, a Ukrainian gas company that placed Biden's son Hunter on its board of directors and is at the center of unfounded allegations by Giuliani against Joe Biden. "He got hired by BlueStar to help facilitate the Democrats and the Clinton agenda," one U.S. official said. "Then he reinvented himself as this pro-Trump truthteller. He doesn't care - as long as he's paid." Beginning in 2017, Telizhenko promoted the narrative that Ukraine interfered in the 2016 election. Citing his experience at the embassy in Ukraine, he asserted that Ukrainian officials colluded with the Democratic Party to assist Hillary Clinton. That fueled the baseless theory - one pushed by Moscow - that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 election. Giuliani joined the president's allies in seizing upon Telizhenko's theory as a way to defend Trump in the midst of former special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation of Russian interference and contacts between the Russian government and Trump associates. Telizhenko first sparked U.S. officials' concern in early 2019, when he began promoting such pro-Russian narratives by sharing information with Republican lawmakers. Later that year, he began discussions with Giuliani. Giuliani met with Telizhenko several times last year and relied on him to organize a trip to Hungary and Ukraine during the impeachment proceedings. On that trip, Giuliani met twice with Derkach, according to Telizhenko, who said he was present for one of the meetings but denied arranging them. Derkach appeared this year on Giuliani's YouTube show "Common Sense," a platform for Giuliani to share his take on politics. Although Telizhenko denies working with Derkach, he provided the English-language voice-over for Derkach's Russian comments to Giuliani. Derkach again drew the attention of U.S. officials this spring when he began releasing leaked edited recordings of then-vice president Biden speaking to former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko. Around the time Derkach released the tapes, Telizhenko made public a transcript of Biden speaking with Poroshenko. He said he received the document from someone other than Derkach. "I know that [Derkach] is not a good person," Telizhenko told The Post. "That's why I try to keep away from him as far as possible. It's a total different game what he's doing and I'm doing. I don't publicly support Derkach. That's the main point." In an interview with The Post this year, Telizhenko said he had more transcripts of Biden's conversations, which he said he provided to someone in the United States who might release them closer to the election. Telizhenko also became a flash point in Senate Republicans' probe of Biden and Ukraine this year. Democrats criticized Sens. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., and Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, for taking information from Telizhenko in the course of their investigation, which culminated in a report released in September. Telizhenko told The Post last month that he cooperated extensively with Johnson's probe. This included handing over "more than 100 emails," which were drawn mainly from Telizhenko's previous work at the embassy in Ukraine. This prompted Democrats to accuse the Johnson of laundering foreign disinformation. Johnson denied the allegation and said the Democrats were smearing him to discredit the report. The report said Hunter Biden's involvement with Burisma gave the appearance of a conflict of interest; it did not demonstrate that his involvement with the Ukrainian gas firm changed U.S. policy toward Ukraine or influenced Joe Biden's actions in any way. - - - Stern and Gryvnyak reported from Kyiv. The Washington Post's John Hudson, Josh Dawsey and Nick Miroff in Washington contributed to this report. Two Temple University students were attending a party and had gathered on a rooftop when both of them fell to the sidewalk below while taking selfies, leaving one in critical condition. As 6ABC reports, it happened around 2 a.m. Saturday at an off-campus apartment on the 1800 block of North Bouvier Street in North Philadelphia. Two 19-year-old women were not immediately named in media reports. Both were hospitalized with injuries, and Temple University and Philadelphia police departments are now investigating the incident. One of the students suffered leg and ankle injuries, and the other is in critical but stable condition with injuries to multiple parts of her body. In wake of the mishap, students were shocked: I feel bad for my friend who was there and did see it and had a really rough night trying to deal with that emotionally, 6ABC quoted student Allison Byrne as saying. BREAKING NOW: 3 sex assaults reported in Penn State dorms this weekend Worker at Pa. used car dealership killed after being run over on car lot Undercover child sex trafficking sting snares 3 Pa. men now facing federal charges and life in prison Man accused of pulling woman from car, shoving her down after fender bender in Pa. bar parking lot Pa. mail carrier rescues 2 abandoned puppies; sadly 2 others die Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) councillor Manish Shukla was allegedly shot dead in Titagarh of North 24 Parganas on Sunday. West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar has summoned top officials of the Mamata Banerjee government to the Raj Bhavan. West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar has summoned top officials of the Mamata Banerjee government to the Raj Bhavan at 10 am on Monday after Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) councillor Manish Shukla was allegedly shot dead in Titagarh of North 24 Parganas on Sunday. West Bengal unit of BJP has accused TMC of killing Shukla and demanded a CBI probe into the matter. Jagdeep Dhankhar has summoned the West Bengal Additional Chief Secretary (Home) and the DGP for today (Monday) in the wake of worsening law and order situation leading to the dastardly killing of Councillor Manish Shukla in Titagarh. The BJP state unit said in a tweet that Bengal was being turned into a place where murders were normalised! Manish Shukla, BJP councillor from Titagarh was shot by TMC goons. It further said that These series of murders clearly indicates towards your inevitable end TMC. Also read: Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee extends rail roko agitation in Punjab till Oct 8 Alarming nosediving law and order scenario @MamataOfficial Targeted political killings in spite of alert by Constitutional Head. Neither ACS Home nor DGP @WBPolice responded. To CM at 10.47 PM Would like to speak to you urgently ! Only silence that speaks volumes Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) October 5, 2020 Also read: With spike of over 74,000 cases, Indias Covid-19 tally breaches 66-L mark BJPs Central Observer for West Bengal, Kailash Vijayvargiya demanded Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the matter. BJP worker Manish Shukla has been shot dead in front of Titagarh Police Station (in North 24 Parganas district). This matter should be investigated by CBI, Vijayvargiya said in a tweet. BJPs state president Dilip Ghosh called the incident as Political terrorism of TMC. The horrific murder of BJPs youth leader, lawyer and former councillor Manish Shukla is reprehensible. This is an example of the bloody politics of Paschim Banga under TMC. Can any justice be expected from this state Government? #PoliticalTerrorism of TMC, Ghosh said in a tweet. BJPs state vice president Arjun Singh in a tweet said, Manish was my younger brother, always stood with me as my shield. Today he is martyred for the land of Bengal, Barrackpore and Bengal will remember this sacrifice. TMC, its leaders and police will all have to bear the brunt of this mistake and misdeeds. Also read: Hathras politics: Congress, DMK to hold protests across country, Yogi Adityanath writes to centre recommending CBI probe Monday marks the deadline for Texans to register to vote in the November general election. Voter registration applications can be found on the Texas Secretary of States website and at libraries, high schools and offices operated by the Texas Department of Public Safety and Health and Human Services Commission. U.S. Postal Service officials earlier this month authorized postmasters to offer voter registration applications at post offices after some in the Houston area had refused to do so. In almost all cases, Texans are required to submit a printed application to the county voter registrar, which in Harris County is the tax assessor-collector. Applications may be hand delivered or mailed, as long as they are postmarked by Monday. Harris County residents can mail their applications to: Ann Harris Bennett Tax Assessor-Collector & Voter Registrar P.O. Box 3527 Houston, TX 77253-3527 See More Collapse State officials last month began offering online voter registration for residents who apply for, renew or update their driver licenses. The new system is the first instance of online voter registration in Texas history. Only 10 states, including Texas, do not offer widespread online voter registration, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Texans may check whether they are registered to vote on the Texas Secretary of States website or, for Harris County residents, on the tax assessor-collectors website. Voter registration applications are available there in English, Spanish, Vietnamese and Chinese. To be eligible to register to vote, residents must be U.S. citizens and 18 years old on Election Day. They also must live in the county where they submit their application. Those who have been convicted of a felony may only register if they have completed their sentence, including any term of incarceration, parole, supervision, probation, or if they have been pardoned, according to the Texas Secretary of State. Texas has surpassed 16.6 million registered voters, according to numbers announced last month by Secretary of State Ruth Hughs, meaning more than 1.5 million voters have registered since the 2016 presidential election Harris County Clerk Chris Hollins has projected up to 1.5 million people may vote in this years election in Harris County, compared to 1.3 million voters in the 2018 midterm election. The deadline to apply for a mail ballot is Oct. 23. Applications must be received, not postmarked, by that date. Early voting begins Oct. 13. Election Day is Nov. 3. jasper.scherer@chron.com If it boiled down to a battle of hard power guns, bullets, and vicious repression there would surely be no contest. In the eight weeks since Alexander Lukashenko claimed an unlikely landslide electoral win, his bloody regime has traversed every violent red line imaginable. It has arrested thousands; tortured hundreds; killed at least five; abducted, threatened and imprisoned political rivals; organised a secret inauguration; and even bared its teeth to a 73-year-old great grandmother. Protesters, following a more peaceful script, have required ingenuity to keep parity. When the regime launched its terror, they organised mass civil disobedience and strikes. When male protesters began to be arrested en masse, Belarusian women stepped forward to head the protest. When the women began to be arrested, they took to ripping the masks off the arresting officers to remove their anonymity. Now, with the confrontation entering a moment of stalemate on the streets, the fight seems to be switching to a new front cyberspace. And its here that the opposition is enjoying some clearcut victories. Since the start of September, a group of anonymous cyberwarriors describing themselves as the Cyber Partisans of Belarus have successfully compromised dozens of government IT systems. For the most part, the hacks have been embarrassing rather than critical. So, for example, the presidential site, for example, was covered by the red and white national flags preferred by the opposition. President Lukashenko and his interior minister found their profiles included on official Belarusian police wanted lists. Online state news broadcasts were interrupted with footage of police violence. But the hacktivists have scored serious systemic success too. They paralysed computing systems at the prosecutor generals office, stock exchange, Minsk police department, and tax office. They blanked government sites for hours at a time. They took the state lottery offline. And they caused the payments system at the Belarusian national bank to crash. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a representative of the Cyber Partisans said cyberattacks against the regime would only escalate. Describing the regimes IT security as derisory, the representative claimed the group already held the capacity to affect the state budget. We could access bank accounts right now if we wanted, but we understand it would bring more harm than good so we are holding back, he said. The Partisans biggest success so far has been the hacking of interior ministry databases, including the names, addresses and phone numbers of serving officers. It has become a powerful weapon in a small country. Officers have to live in the same apartments and shop in the same stores as the general population. Removing their ability to perform abuses anonymously increases the chance of defections significantly. Crucially, it maintains psychological pressure on the system. We dont want to reveal our cards just yet. Lets just say we are very confident in what we are doing Cyber Partisans In a parallel development, a group of engineers led by US-based expat Andrew Maximov claims to have developed software that can identify officers even while they are wearing masks. The 30-year old Maximov first demonstrated the potential of his system in a clip analysing infamous footage of police abuse from early August. The YouTube demonstration, which has already been watched by a million viewers, shows the footage of masked officers standing over an unarmed 15-year-old boy with a live grenade. It then purports to show the software matching the man against a database of known officers. Maximov, whose day job is running a multimillion-dollar AI company in Los Angeles, said the software was straightforward enough. A 15-year-old with a laptop could do what we do," he claimed. The system uses pre-existing computer vision models to extract facial features, then checks it with other metadata like location and time. Only then does it look for probable matches against the databases. More than 100,000 protested in Belarus on Sunday (EPA) But Maximovs sci-fi project has attracted its share of doubters. Even some opposition hacker groups have dismissed the software as fake. The expat engineer stands by his claims. People mistakenly believed Artificial Intelligence was an exact science, he says. All it reflects are probabilities based on trained data, and I admit the photographic data is still incomplete, but we are working on it. On their part, the Cyber Partisans of Belarus also admit that IT sabotage is also some way from securing a revolution. But they say they are playing an important role in a historic movement and are sure of their ability to inflict serious damage on Lukashenkos 26-year regime. We dont want to reveal our cards just yet, the Cyber Partisans representative said. Lets just say we are very confident in what we are doing. Online prayers held for Trump amid COVID-19 treatment: We know prayer works Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment Christian leaders across the nation prayed for President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, who are being treated for COVID-19, during an online Call to Prayer event hosted by Trumps campaign team Sunday evening. Lara Trump, the presidents campaign adviser and who is married to his son, Eric, said the president and his wife "are going to come through this, no problem, and it will be because of the power of prayer." "We know it works, she added during the online event, while acknowledging that they have seen people's messages of support. Jentezen Franklin, senior pastor of Free Chapel, a multi-campus church in Gainesville, Georgia, noted that it means a lot that the president of the United States has called the whole nation to pray for him. Trump, 74, and the first lady, 50, tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday. The president is currently hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center but White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows told Fox News that he has been improving and may be discharged Monday. Franklin said the day after the Trumps tested positive, he noticed that his 85-year-old mothers eyes were a little puffy during breakfast. When Franklin asked her about it, she said she woke up at 3:30 am with Trump and his wife on my mind, on my heart and on my lips. She prayed for them for three hours. Franklin said he thinks millions of people may have done what his mother did. He said 1 Samuel 12:23 is speaking to the nation and to all those who are hurting and suffering during the COVID-19 pandemic. As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right, reads the verse. Bishop Harry Jackson, one of the chief advocates of the reconciled church movement and leader of Hope Christian Church in Maryland, said he drove past the hospital where the president is and saw numerous people standing outside with placards that said they love the president and are praying for him. God is about to release healing not only to the president but to the nation, Jackson said Sunday and read Psalm 133. Others who offered prayers during the Sunday event included Pastor Ramiro Pena, founder and senior pastor of Christ the King Church of Waco, Texas; Pastor Paula White-Cain, who leads New Destiny Christian Center in Florida and is Trump's spiritual adviser; and Cissie Graham Lynch, granddaughter of late evangelical pastor Billy Graham and daughter of evangelist Franklin Graham. "I declare and decree healing through your body right now that every part of your body will be healed by the superior blood of Jesus Christ right now," White-Cain prayed. Lynch stressed, "The power of prayer that my family, that was taught from my grandfather, my grandmother and my parents and passing on to my generation, Lara, I want you to know that this is just a small representation of homes and families that are praying for your family." As of early Monday, the Call to Prayer event video on Facebook had been viewed 1.7 million times. On Sunday, Trump released a video on Twitter to share an update on his health from the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. I feel much better now, he said. Were working hard to get me all the way back, I have to be back, because we still have to make America great again. "Ill be back, I think Ill be back soon and I look forward to finishing up the campaign the way we started and the way weve been doing and the kind of numbers weve been doing, weve been so proud of it. The president also thanked medical staff for attending to him and called the drugs he is taking miracles coming down from God. He added that the next few days would be the real test. Melania Trump is doing well as shes slightly younger and handling it statistically like its supposed to be handled, Trump added. Dr. Brian Garibaldi, who is part of the team treating Trump, said in an update Sunday, Today, he feels well, hes been up and around ... Our hope is we can plan for discharge as early as tomorrow. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council meeting on Monday put off for a week a decision on compensating states for the shortfall in their share of the indirect tax revenue after a stormy meeting where states governed by opposition parties insisted that the Centre borrow the entire Rs 2.35 lakh crore deficit and reimburse them, four people who attended the meeting said. The meeting had almost ended without resolving the demand of the dissenting states when they asked for a division of voting if consensus could not be reached, two finance ministers of opposition-ruled states said, requesting anonymity. The crisis was averted as the chair deferred the matter for more discussion, which is judicious, the finance minister of one state said. Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the government will immediately release Rs 20,000 crore to states for their revenue shortfall in the current financial year. This money is part of the Rs 65,000 crore compensation cess expected to be collected in 2020-21 in the normal course. This year whatever we have collected [cess] till now, Rs 20,000 crore will get disbursed tonight, she said. The Centre had placed two options before the states borrow Rs 97,000 crore (the amount has been raised to Rs 1.10 lakh crore) to bridge the shortfall in revenue from GST, equal to the shortfall resulting from issues related to its implementation, without repaying either principal or interest, or alternatively, borrow the entire Rs 2.35 lakh crore (the remaining deficit caused by the Covid-19 pandemic) and bear significant interest costs. As many as 21 state governments opted to borrow Rs 1.10 lakh crore to repay the funds that would come out of the cess levied on sin goods like cigarettes, pan masala and aerated drinks; and luxury products like automobiles. Jharkhand, Kerala, Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and West Bengal, had demurred. About 10 members have expressed their inability to accept either of the two options given to states borrow Rs 97,000 crore and pay principal and interest from compensation cess fund, or borrow Rs 2.35 lakh crore and bear the interest cost. We proposed a third option the Centre should borrow the entire shortfall, compensate states in full and retire the debt from the compensation cess fund, the minister said. The Centre could have moved ahead with the first option as 21 states, the majority, have already accepted it. But, it would not have been possible without a division of voting, the ministers cited above said. Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Puducherry, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh have, so far, opted for the first borrowing option. A person representing the central government said on condition of anonymity: The issue of borrowing is not something which is under the jurisdiction of GST Council. Legally, some 10 states cannot stop other members 21 states from opting for the first borrowing option. Also Read | GST collection shows growth for the first time since March Today the Council exercised its authority to extend the levy of cess beyond June 2022. This decision has actually assured all states that they will get full compensation with respect to any shortfall as compared to the protected revenue of 14% growth. But those [states] who want to borrow cannot be stopped, the person said. Borrowing is the individual choice of a state, which squarely falls under the Article 293 of the Constitution, the person said. When something is not under the jurisdiction of the GST Council, how can any voting or division be permitted? Voting can occur in GST Council only on those matters which are under the express jurisdiction of the GST Council, the person added. If there is no consensus in the GST Council on the above negotiable issues, the legal provisions for Dispute Resolution Mechanism within the Council should be activated without delay, Kerala finance minister Thomas Isaac said. He put forward two non-negotiable cardinal principles on compensation there can be no bifurcation of the revenue shortfall for calculating compensation, with one portion being blamed on Covid-19 on another on GST implementation issues; secondly, compensation cannot be linked to normal borrowing or additional borrowing limits allowed to states. Both the options presented by the central government infringe upon the above two cardinal principles and therefore not acceptable, he said. Once the two basic principles enunciated above are accepted, compensation can be discussed and an attempt made to arrive at a consensus on issues such as who borrows and in what proportion, how much to borrow this year and how much in 2022, Isaac said. There was a consensus in the Council to extend the period of compensation beyond June 2022, for such period as may be required to meet the revenue gap, Sitharaman said at a press conference after the meeting. The GST Council is empowered federal body on matters related to the indirect tax. It is chaired by the Union finance minister and represented by the finance ministers of states. On deferring the meeting for one week to October 12 over the compensation cess issue, she said that 21 states had chosen the first option, but there were some that have not chosen either. It was felt that you cant decide on the basis of 21 which have written to you, we need to talk further, she said. I was also gently reminded that I cant take anybody for granted. I dont take anybody for granted, I have said this there and I am saying it here. Ive always been open for more and more talk which is what I have said there and Im saying it here too, the finance minister said. At the time the new tax regime was introduced in July 2017, the GST law assured states a 14% increase in their annual revenue for five years (up to June 30, 2022); any revenue shortfall should be made good through the compensation cess levied on luxury and sin goods. The cess would have ceased to exist after June 30, 2022, without the Councils decision to extend it. Divakar Vijayasarathy, founder and managing partner at consulting firm DVS Advisors LLP, said: Though the Centre has increased the borrowing limit under option one, the same is not expected to pacify the opposition-ruled states and they are expected to stick to their guns in the upcoming meeting on October 12th, forcing the centre to either constitute a committee of ministers or formulate another dispute resolution mechanism to bring consensus. Atul Gupta, partner at Deloitte India, said, There is an underlying and implicit recognition by the GST Council members of the fact that the authority and responsibility of the GST Council should not get undermined and to that effect there has been a concerted bid by all participants for achieving a consensus on the issue of shortfall in compensation cess and also of GST revenue accruing to the states. Recently, a report from the forensic team of All India Institute Of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) ruled out the possibility of murder in the Sushant Singh Rajput death case. Now, film producer Sandip Ssingh has said that he is waiting for the final word from the Central Bureau of Intelligence (CBI) Special Investigation Team (SIT), which has been formed to probe the death of Sushant. Talking to ETimes, Sandip said, I dont know why we start reacting without knowing the absolute facts of the matter. As his friends, family and well-wishers, we wanted a CBI enquiry in the matter. Post that, the NCB enquiry also started. In the interim, a lot of people have spoken out of turn and made a mockery of an on-going investigation by a national agency. While I have read the statement made by Dr Gupta, I wonder why we are not waiting for the CBI to issue a comment or a conclusive statement. We are not ready to wait. The doctor has given his statement but the final word will rest with what the CBIs enquiry report reveals. After a report by Dr Sudhir Gupta from AIIMS rejecting murder claims in Sushants death started doing the rounds, the late actors sister Shweta Singh Kirti wrote on Instagram that the family is praying for the truth to come out. She also said that they have their eye on CBI. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shweta Singh kirti (SSK) (@shwetasinghkirti) on Oct 3, 2020 at 8:34pm PDT Apart from the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) are also investigating Sushants case. He passed away on June 14, 2020, aged 34. Donald Trump promises a 'surprise visit' to supporters outside Walter Reed hospital on Sunday (@realDonaldTrump) Donald Trump paid a 'surprise visit' to supporters outside Walter Reed Medical Centre after sharing a video update of his condition on Sunday. The president said it has been an interesting journey taught him a lot about Covid, by going to "real school", not the "let's read the book school". The photo-op sparked outrage among some observers. The White House Correspondents Association upset they weren't given advance notice to cover the event, while an attending physician at Walter Reed called it "insanity" to expose Secret Service agents for political theatre. The drive-by came after his condition continued to improve, with doctors saying he could return to the White House as early as Monday. That would be at least three nights in hospital for treatment, which has included oxygen, a second dose of remdesivir, and a first dose of the steroid, dexamethasone. His medical team has said Mr Trump isnt showing any side effects that we can tell. Dr Sean Conley, Mr Trumps physician, also defended his decision to withhold the presidents need for supplemental oxygen in the past two days, saying he tried to reflect Mr Trumps upbeat attitude. While the Trump's campaign ground to a halt in a hospital bed, Joe Biden surged ahead in the polls as the surprise October Covid diagnosis threw the final leg of the 2020 election into uncertainty. In a new poll conducted after the first presidential debate, but before the president's positive coronavirus test, Mr Biden extended his national lead over Mr Trump by a two to one margin. Mr Bidens team confirmed on Sunday that he would be at the next debate, but with confusion over the severity of Mr Trump's condition and symptoms, questions remain over whether it will go ahead in two weeks. LOS ANGELES, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Stone Canyon Industries Holdings LLC ("SCIH"), Kissner Group Holdings minority owner and CEO Mark Demetree, and affiliates today announced they have entered into an agreement to acquire K+S Aktiengesellschaft's Americas salt business, including Morton Salt, for $3.2 billion. The closing of the transaction is expected to occur by summer 2021, subject to customary closing conditions, including antitrust approvals. "We are proud and excited to acquire the iconic Morton Salt brand and the family of K+S Americas products," said James Fordyce, Co-Chairman and Co-CEO of SCIH. "The combination of the Americas salt business with SCIH's Kissner Group Holdings allows us to expand our product offerings to consumers along with our existing government and commercial customers. The Americas salt business adds an integral component to SCIH's long-term, growth-oriented business model." The K+S Americas operating unit mainly comprises K+S Chile, formerly known as the Chilean company SPL, acquired by K+S in 2006, as well as Morton Salt (USA) and K+S Windsor Salt (Canada), acquired in 2009. "With the sale of our Americas salt business, we are taking a giant step in reducing debt. We are thus creating a solid financial basis for the sustainable development of the company," said Dr. Burkhard Lohr, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of K+S. "I would like to thank our Americas team for their excellent work over the past years. I am sure that Stone Canyon will continue to develop the business successfully." The SCIH group was advised by Morgan Stanley and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP. Debt financing and structuring assistance was provided by Eldridge. For K+S, the transaction was supported by Deutsche Bank AG, RBC Capital Markets LLC, and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. Kissner Group Holdings, a subsidiary of SCIH, is a leading pure-play producer and supplier of salt in North America. Headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, Kissner produces bulk salt, specialty salt and evaporated salt producer focused on governmental and commercial customers across the United States and Canada. About Stone Canyon Industries Holdings Stone Canyon Industries Holdings ("SCIH") is a global industrial holding company designed to "buy, build and hold" for the long term, with a strategy focused on acquiring and operating market leading companies including Kissner Group Holdings, Reddy Ice and SCI Rail. SCIH was founded by Co-CEOs Adam Cohn and James Fordyce. SCIH companies operate in essential industries that provide mission-critical products and services to customers around the world. SCIH seeks to build out industrial verticals in stable and mature industries that possess favorable economic dynamics, as well as an opportunity to build a substantial company that will make a difference. For more information, please visit www.scihinc.com. About Morton Salt, Inc. Morton Salt, Inc. is a trusted authority in salt in North America. The iconic Morton brand, coupled with the broadest footprint in the industry, has made the company a leader since 1848. Morton produces salt for culinary, water softening, household, road deicing, food processing, chemical, pharmaceutical, and numerous other uses. Headquartered in Chicago, Morton Salt with its affiliates in the Bahamas and Canada has nearly 3,000 employees committed to safety, quality, and service in the communities in which it operates. www.mortonsalt.com About K+S K+S considers itself a customer-focused, independent minerals company for the Agriculture, Industry, Consumers, and Communities segments. Our more than 14,000 employees enable farmers to provide nutrition for the world, solutions that keep industries going, improve daily life for consumers and provide safety in the winter. We continually meet the growing demand for mineral products from production sites in Europe, North and South America as well as a worldwide sales network. We strive for sustainability because we are deeply committed to our responsibilities to people, environment, communities, and the economy in the regions in which we operate. Learn more about K+S at www.kpluss.com. SOURCE Stone Canyon Industries Holdings LLC Related Links https://www.scihinc.com New purchasing managers' index (PMI) data underlines the state of the UK economy. Photo: PA Much of the UK economy has proved resilient despite rising coronavirus rates and lockdown restrictions in September, according to a closely watched business survey. New figures show the services sector, which makes up around four-fifths of the economy from cafes to consultancy, continuing to grow but at a slower pace last month. The latest purchasing managers index (PMI) figures for the UKs services came in at 56.1. The pace of growth weakened from 58.8 in August, but remained high. Last months reading had been the highest since 2015. The figures from data provider IHS Markit are based on a survey of firms, with readings above 50 showing the majority are expanding and below 50 showing most face a decline in activity. Chris Williamson, chief business economist at IHS Markit, said: The UK service sector showed encouraging resilience in September, with business activity continuing to grow solidly despite the governments Eat Out to Help Out scheme being withdrawn. READ MORE: UK government pledges 238m for CV and work advice as unemployment grows Cuts to stamp duty taxes have boosted firms in or linked to residential property sales, according to the survey. Many firms continue to rebound from the easing of certain lockdown restrictions earlier this year, despite a growing wave of regional lockdowns and fresh curbs including a 10pm shutdown for hospitality venues. Meanwhile a composite reading for both services and manufacturing showed strong growth of 56.5, down from a six-year high of 59.1 last month. Expansion among manufacturers outstripped services firms for a third month, however. Services activity continued to rebound but at a slower pace in September, new figures show. Chart: IHS Markit / CIPS The experiences of services firms are also uneven, with gains mainly for those in business-to-business services. Firms more reliant on consumer spending and social contact such as hotels, restaurants and catering saw business levels decline, exacerbated by the withdrawal of government schemes and tighter COVID-19 curbs. Low international tourism numbers have added to many firms troubles. Story continues The latest figures also show job numbers falling for a seventh month in a row across services and manufacturing, with private sector services jobs hit hardest. "Once again job losses remained the black spot amidst these pockets of recovery," said Duncan Brock, group director at the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply, which runs the survey alongside IHS Markit. "Redundancies have replaced job hiring in an attempt to shield firms from rising input costs but these strategies will devastate local communities. It comes ahead of a major speech by UK chancellor Rishi Sunak at the virtual Conservative Party conference on Monday. Sunak is expected to promise to create, support and extend opportunity to as many people as I can. but he will also say the pain of mounting job losses only grows with each passing day, according to reports. The government has come under enormous pressure to do more to stave off job losses as the crisis drags on and the furlough scheme is wound down. It promised 238m of new support for jobseekers on Monday. Support will include advice on growing sectors, CVs and interviews, according to the department for work and pensions (DWP). It will also be targeted at anyone out of work for more than three months. READ MORE: Cineworld shares tank as 45,000 jobs put at risk Analysis released by Labour on Monday suggests almost one million jobs could be at risk in areas under regional or local lockdowns. The figures suggest 490,000 people remain on government-subsidised furlough leave in such areas, and another 480,000 are in areas on the governments watch list for potential lockdowns. The furlough scheme wage grants will run out this month, with fears a new job support scheme which replaces it is not generous enough to incentivise retaining staff. The opportunity cost of having friends By Aimee Lindemuth It was 3:00am in the common room of the main building at a student leader retreat. Ten of us were bouncing on couches or rolling on the floor laughing like mad at all the inside jokes of that day. My brain had basically flatlined by this point, and now I was challenging a friend to a push-up contest. I felt as if I could stay up all night. Not everyone shared my elation though. The energy was quickly sapping from the room. Soon everyone started heading back to the dorm building. I was the last one to leave. As all the lights were being turned off, I walked into the empty gym. It was an open expanse of darkness-calming and quiet. I wished I could stay there all night, alone and at peace, but I knew Haley would be waiting in our room so I left. Even though exhaustion was clawing at us, we stayed up another hour talking, and I wouldnt trade it for anything. Everything has an opportunity cost of some kind. One thing in my life Ive noticed and started to think about is the opportunity cost of having friends. The thing that makes people friends is their relationship to each other. For most of my quarantine time when I was unable to see my friends in person, I was a bit surprised by how happy I remained, but towards the end, I was excited to go see people again. What is the opportunity cost of having friends? As an introvert, spending time with my friends tires me out and I need to be alone to recharge. When I am tired, it is hard to focus on school and other things I have to do. Some days, for me, it is a choice between spending time with my friends or getting anything useful done. My desire to keep up with relationships often outweighs what I think I could otherwise do. The problem is that sometimes spending time with friends should be given up to get school or other work done. Putting off my school and work makes me stressed and sometimes not get it done at all. Another opportunity cost of developing relationships is not having the time to spend with other people. As we look at the opportunity cost of having friends, we also have to look at the cost of not having friends. One cost may be loneliness that leads to not being productive because youre too busy being depressed because you dont have any friends. Friends can encourage us when we need it and help motivate us. Getting to spend time with friends can be the incentive we need to work more efficiently. Not having friends means we may never have anyone to pull us out of our comfort zone. What is the best use of my time? Ive begun to realize that there are many economic concepts that apply to my wellness. There is a lot that goes into maintaining friendships. Time is the most valuable commodity that I possess. I have to be careful when friends demand more time than I can supply. Thinking and considering carefully how I spend my time will make me both more agreeable to interact with and make me more effective completing things. Aimee Lindemuth is senior in high school and young enough to participate in push-up contests. 2020 Aimee Lindemuth Home A Jewish student has been beaten around the head with a shovel and seriously injured outside a German synagogue in an anti-Semitic attack. The 26-year-old man was walking into Hohe Weide synagogue in Hamburg on Sunday when he was struck over the head with a folding spade. The attacker, a 29-year-old Kazakh man wearing military fatigues, was overpowered by the synagogue's security and police have taken him into custody on suspicion of attempted murder. The suspect had a slip of paper with a swastika on it, DPA reported. An Orthodox Jewish man and his son walk towards the cordoned-off area in front of the synagogue in Hamburg, Germany on Sunday night Police patrol outside Hohe Weide synagogue in Hamburg on Sunday evening after the attack Germany's justice minister today called the attack an 'horrible act of violence' and condemned the hatred of Jews as a stain on Germany. 'The hatred against Jews is a disgrace for our country,' Christine Lambrecht said in a statement. 'We have to further confront agitation against Jews and be there more for the victims of hatred and violence.' Police said Sunday night that the Hamburg attacker was 'extremely confused' making his interrogation challenging. A Hamburg rabbi said the community, which had come together Sunday to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, was 'very, very shocked' by the assault. 'The question is: What have we not learned since Halle?' Rabbi Shlomo Bistritzky said. The assault comes amid heightened concern in Germany over rising anti-Semitism and far-right extremism. The staircase where a Jewish man was attacked is marked with barricade tape in front of the Hamburg synagogue 'This is not an isolated case - this is repugnant anti-Semitism and we must all stand up against it,' German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas tweeted Sunday night. The attack came nearly a year after a heavily armed white supremacist targeted a synagogue in the eastern German city of Halle on Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. He killed a passer-by and a man at a nearby kebab stall after failing to force his way into the building. Manish Anand And Rajesh Kumar Thakur By Express News Service NEW DELHI/PATNA: The Bihar political script changed a tad on Sunday with NDA ally Lok Jan Shakti Party (LJP) deciding to go it alone in the state Assembly elections. Stating that the LJP will seek a BJP-led government in Bihar, the Chirag Paswan-led outfit said it will field nominees against the JD(U). Hours before the Central Election Committee (CEC) of the BJP met to clear its list of party nominees, the LJP left the NDA at the state level citing ideological differences with the JD(U). Theres no bad blood between the BJP and the LJP. The victorious candidates of the party after the polls will support a BJP-LJP government, the LJP said in a statement. After the BJPs CEC meeting, there were indications that the seat sharing formula could be announced in Patna soon. But unconfimed sources said the JD(U) will get 121, the BJP 117 and Jitan Ram Manjhis HAM 5 seats. The LJPs decision to go solo could hurt the JD(U). This decision is aimed at pruning Nitish Kumars political stature amid anti-incumbency. It will harm the performances of JD(U) without harming the electoral prospects of the BJP, said Dr R K Sinha, a prominent political analyst in Bihar. Within the LJP, the wily Nitish Kumars Mahadalit plank is seen as an attempt to cut the Paswan family to size as he is promoting former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi. While the LJP claims to represent the states 16% Dalit constituency as well as the Bhumihars, the JD(U) and the BJP have been making significant inroads into their support base. Chirag Paswan is itching to lead Bihar and wants to test the political waters now. Thus far, the LJP has contested elections in alliances, mindful of the limitation of its support base, with his father Ram Vilas Paswan generally managing to stay on the winning side. Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar is understood to have called up Chirag Paswan multiple times but there was no response. The CM then called his mother to enquire about the health of Ram Vilas Paswan, who underwent heart surgery in Delhi. Jeannette Ross / Hearst Connecticut Media WILTON A Wilton High School student has died after being hospitalized from an incident that occurred Friday, the superintendent of schools wrote in a message to the school community. I am terribly heartbroken to report that earlier this morning we learned that our Wilton High School student who was injured on Friday passed away, Superintendent of Schools Kevin Smith wrote on Monday morning. This loss is incomprehensible and we ache for this students family and loved ones. This students death leaves us without words to express our grief or even attempt to understand this incredible loss. As a school community we extend our deepest condolences to this students parents, siblings and loved ones. It has often been said that elections have consequences, and this Novembers vote will bring many of them. One of the most important ones for Texas should be for the Republican Party to take a long, hard look at its opposition to Medicaid expansion in our state. Democrats need to flip only nine seats to take control of the Texas House of Representatives. They think they could, though Republicans are confident that their party will hold on. The Texas Senate, with a 19-12 Republican margin, is expected to remain under GOP control. Well all find out on Nov. 3. But even though Democrats havent won a statewide race in Texas since 1994, the party has been gaining in recent years as shown by its growing numbers in the Texas House and Beto ORourkes surprisingly close race against Sen. Ted Cruz in 2018. Several factors have contributed to this shift, and one of them is one of the most important issues for virtually all voters: health care. Most Texas Republicans have steadfastly opposed Obamacare, even though many Texans like it or at least think its better than nothing. One facet of this Obamacare opposition is GOP resistance to expanding Medicaid in Texas. By now Texas is one of only 12 states that have resisted this expansion, mostly because it is connected with the name Obamacare. Yet study after study has shown that Medicaid expansion would improve health care in Texas, providing coverage to 1.2 million low-income residents who dont have it now. Currently, more than 5.2 million Texans, 18% of all residents, have no health insurance. Among Texas adults under 65, that number is a staggering 29%. No one should be satisfied with those statistics. The federal government would pay 90 percent of the cost for Medicaid expansion in Texas, so cost really isnt a factor. If Medicaid is expanded, it could bring $5.4 billion to the state. That would bring more revenue to many struggling rural hospitals and give them a better chance of staying open instead of closing like so many have in recent years. Most hospital and medical groups also support expansion. They know it would allow more Texans to get treatment for many illnesses instead of just dealing with them or going to the emergency room for free care when the need becomes too great. If Republicans see losses in Novembers election, or even if they dont, they need to reconsider their longstanding opposition to Medicaid expansion as Republicans have done in other states. Until the Texas GOP can come up with a better way to help more Texans get some form of health care, Medicaid expansion is our best option now. (File Photo) Pakistani police filed sedition charges on Monday against former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and dozens of his party leaders over comments he made criticising the interference of the military in national politics. Last month, Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League and eight other opposition parties came together to accuse the military of meddling in politics and of rigging elections in 2018 that brought Prime Minister Imran Khan to power. Sharif left Pakistan last November to get medical treatment after being granted bail from a seven-year jail sentence for corruption, though his daughter remains in the country. Sharif, a long-standing critic of the military, denies the corruption charges. "We will ensure a court trial against the accused," government official Musarrat Cheema told Reuters regarding the sedition charges. In his recent speeches via video links from his London home, Sharif has said the interference of the military in politics was the root cause of all Pakistan's problems. The sedition case filed against Sharif, his daughter and 44 top party leaders says he has sought in his speeches to isolate Pakistan internationally and have it declared a rogue state. "Convict Nawaz Sharif has been openly inciting the public to commit treason," said the case, a copy of which was seen by Reuters, adding that it was aimed at maligning the armed forces and the judiciary. The military, which has ruled Pakistan for half of its history since independence in 1947, denies meddling in politics or electoral wrongdoing. The opposition parties have formed a new alliance, known as the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), and announced a campaign of nationwide protests to dislodge Khan's government, saying it has been a failure on all fronts. Sharif's close aide Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said the sedition charges would not deter the opposition's campaign. "Arrest us, we're ready for that," he said. Sharif's third term as prime minister ran from 2013 to 2017, when he was removed by the Supreme Court amid revelations over his personal wealth, which he blames on the army generals after he fell out with them over the handling of Islamist militants. US President Donald Trump, who has been hospitalised for having coronavirus, briefly left the hospital to greet his supporters by riding past in a motorcade on Sunday. Wearing a mask, Trump waved at his supporters from his car outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre after tweeting that he would pay a "surprise visit". I really appreciate all of the fans and supporters outside of the hospital. The fact is, they really love our Country and are seeing how we are MAKING IT GREATER THAN EVER BEFORE! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 4, 2020 Subsequently, Trump received barrage of criticism from the medical community with a protocol-breaking visit to his supporters outside the hospital. Trump, who has been criticised for his handling of the pandemic, said he had learned a lot about the virus. In a tweet, Trump - dressed in a suit jacket and shirt with no tie - said, "I learned a lot about COVID. I learned it by really going to school. This is real school. This isn't the let's read the books school. I get it and I understand it. It's a very interesting thing, I'll be letting you know about it." However, health experts took to social media and said he had learned nothing at all. "Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary presidential 'drive-by' just now has to be quarantined for 14 days. They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity," Dr James P. Phillips, an attending physician at Walter Reed, tweeted. Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary Presidential drive-by just now has to be quarantined for 14 days. They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity. Dr. James P. Phillips, MD (@DrPhillipsMD) October 4, 2020 "That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of Covid-19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play," Dr Phillips said in another tweet. That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of COVID19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play. Dr. James P. Phillips, MD (@DrPhillipsMD) October 4, 2020 Earlier on Sunday, the White House physician Dr Sean Conley informed that Trump's blood oxygen level dropped twice in recent days and he was given supplemental oxygen. Conley said that there has been an improvement and the President has no fever since Friday. He could be discharged from the hospital as early as Monday, he added. He said the President was given dexamethasone, a steroid, after his blood oxygen level dipped on Saturday. "President Trump continues to do well, having made substantial progress since diagnosis," Conley said, adding that the president completed his second dose of Remdesivir without complications. In a video posted late Saturday, Trump said he has started to "feel much better" and thanked the American people and global leaders for their support. The President asserted that he has to come back to win the election and complete the job. "We still have steps to go and we have to finish that job. And I'll be back. I think I'll be back soon. I look forward to finishing up the campaign the way it was started and the way we've been doing," he said. Trump, 74, and his wife First Lady Melania Trump, 50, tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday. Also read: President Donald Trump improving, but not 'out of the woods' yet Also read: Donald Trump says he feels much better but next few days will be 'real test' - Akufo-Addo has revealed that since he was sworn in as president, he has been very truthful to Ghanaians - He noted that more than 80 per cent of his promises, including the Free SHS policy, had been fulfilled - Ghanaians have shared their thoughts on the comments passed b the president Our manifesto: This is what YEN.com.gh believes in Install our latest app for Android and read the best news about President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has revealed that since he was sworn in as president, he has been very truthful to Ghanaians. According to him, he deserves another term in office for delivering most of his 2016 campaign promises. Nana Addo noted that more than 80 per cent of his promises, including the Free SHS policy, had been fulfilled. I have not lied to Ghanaians. The delivery of all the promises I made in 2016 is on course, and I stand on this to ask for another term, Nana Addo said. The President was addressing the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs in Koforidua on the first day of his three-day tour of the Region. Ghanaians have shared their thoughts and concerns on the comments made by President Akufo-Addo. Matthew asked why the president is so bothered. Jay believes no true politician will ever be truthful to his citizens. Abdullah said except those who don't know you. Ohene said he will definitely vote for Nana Addo. In other news, president Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo who is also the leader and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has predicted that the NPP will win with a first-round victory in the upcoming December elections. He said the NPP is targeting a first-round victory because he is confident Ghanaians will vote for him given his performance so far since he became president. Akufo-Addo reported made this declaration during a working tour to the Bono Region, where he addressed people of Berekum East and Berekum West, appealing for votes. Ghanaian multi-instrumentalist Dela Jackson has charged the youth in Africa to wake up | #Yencomgh YEN is building a platform where Ghanaians can share local news and own experiences with each other. Witnessing an incident? Want to tell about a local problem? Know someone who is extremely talented and needs recognition? Your stories and photos are always welcome. Send us a message via Instagram or on YENs official Facebook page. Source: YEN.com.gh Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 23:47:08|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close MACAO, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The tourism industry in China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) has welcomed the long-awaited mainland tourists during China's National Day holiday, although the tourists numbers and business performance from Thursday to Monday indicated this was a mild beginning of rebound. According to Macao's immigration authorities, there were 72,684 mainland visitors entering Macao in the first four days of October 2020, a decrease of 86.2 percent compared with the same period in 2019, but were higher than the figure in previous months of 2020. On Monday afternoon, a dozen of tourists were busy doing the selfie or taking photos for each other in front of the Ruins of St.Paul, scattering through the long stairs which were not as crowded as in years before the pandemic. A few tourist police officers stood aside to maintain public order. But they didn't use any crowd management measures. Miss Zhao, a shopkeeper of a cookie and souvenir store in front of the Ruins of St.Paul, said they had prepared for an increasing number of tourists during the National Day holiday, but it seemed there were not so many as expected. "The business had already been influenced by the pandemic, I hope there will be more and more tourists in future," she added. China is set to welcome eight days of national holiday this year as the Mid-Autumn Festival coincides with the country's National Day. During the long holiday, Macao's tourism industry had planed to attract mainland tourists by a series of activities such as a fireworks show and Macao Light Festival. According to Macao Hoteliers and Innkeepers Association Chairperson Yun Leisan, the current average room occupancy rate of Macao's hotels and guesthouses is about 50 percent, higher than the figure in previous months but lower than expected. Among all sorts of hotels and guesthouses, the five-star hotels have higher room occupancy rate due to discount as high as 70 percent. In one of Macao's major tourist sites Senado Square, dozens of tourists sat and rested in front of a fountain. One of the tourists Wang Junqi came to Macao on Sunday, and she quite enjoyed her journey this time. "I came here several times and this time there are less people here, I have very good experience," she said. She mentioned that she came into Macao from Zhuhai through strict anti-pandemic measures, such as examination of thermal detector and nucleic acid test result of COVID-19. But those preventive measures were only one of the main reasons for the slow rise of tourist number. Macao's tourism sector believed that this year's Mid-Autumn Festival falling on Oct. 1 would leave most mainland tourists at home for family union. They could only come out on Oct. 2 or Oct. 3, delaying the coming of climax of tourist number. Another reason was that although the mainland authorities on Sept. 23 had resumed the issuance of travel permit to Macao SAR for mainland residents as tourists, the application procedure would take longer time than before, which had also delayed the coming of mainland tourists. Enditem In the northeastern corner of the Northwest Territories lies the biggest remaining example on earth of a fully functioning cold, freshwater ecosystem. Its name is Sahtu, or Great Bear Lake, and it covers 31,000 square kilometres equivalent to the size of Vancouver Island. Theres likely more fresh, cold water here than anywhere else on earth, says the intro to a new docu-series about Canadas biosphere reserves, narrated by Blue Rodeos Jim Cuddy. Episode 1 of Season 2 of TVOs Striking Balance premieres on Sunday and features the Tsa Tue Biosphere Reserve, which covers the 9.3 million hectare Great Bear Lake watershed. The nine-episode series will be available to stream online for free, and will also air on the Knowledge Network. Other biosphere reserves featured in the series include Riding Mountain Biosphere Reserve in Manitoba, Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region on Vancouver Island and Beaver Hills Biosphere Reserve in Alberta. Deline, a Dene community in the Northwest Territories, has been working for decades to protect Great Bear Lake. In the 1940s, the eastern shore of the lake became one of the first sources of uranium ore in North America. For nearly 20 years, ore was barged across the lake and down the Great Bear River. More than 740,000 tonnes of uranium tailings were dumped into the lake before the uranium rush ended, according to the Striking Balance episode. Community leaders wanted to protect Sahtu protected through the 1993 land claim agreement for the Sahtu Dene, but the idea was turned down by the federal and territorial governments, said Michael Neyelle, the former president of Delines renewable resources council. They said you cant claim water, lakes, he said. But there was another path: Neyelle went on to help establish a biosphere reserve. We thought maybe this is a way we could protect it, so we pursued it, he said. Biosphere reserves are essentially incubators for sustainable development and scientific research into the natural world. Launched by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in the 1970s, they are a way to increase collaboration among governments to advance conservation efforts and sustainable practices a roadmap toward environmental protection, as there is no legal basis underpinning these designations. Biosphere reserves are located in 124 countries, and 18 reserves are located in Canada. When the Tsa Tue Biosphere Reserve was established in 2016, covering a total surface area of about 9.3 million hectares including Great Bear Lake and part of its watershed it became the first in the world to be completely managed by Indigenous people and the first to be located north of 60, said Liette Vasseur, chair in community sustainability at UNESCO. Vasseur said theres a history of governments, particularly in South America, excluding Indigenous people from setting up biosphere reserves. They were pretty much put aside, which is kind of sad, she said. The Tsa Tue Biosphere Reserve considers the symbiotic relationship between protecting the environment and supporting traditional ways of life in many Indigenous cultures, Vasseur said. The Dene have a very integrated cultural and ecological system and this is a way to make sure that its preserved in the long term. Deline, a self-governing First Nation of about 600 people, is starting to reap the rewards of establishing a biosphere reserve. We already have land claims, we have habitats, like fish and moose, special harvesting areas, just for Deline people, Neyelle said. With this designation, were gonna have some help. Deline is in the process of securing funding to set up a permanent Indigenous guardians program with the help of UNESCO, Neyelle said, adding that residents are currently training to become guardians and equipment such as boats and skidoos are going to be ordered. The Sahtu Dene Council secured funding from the federal government in 2019 as part of its Indigenous guardians pilot program now in its third year that helps Indigenous communities to monitor and protect the environment as they see fit. The Dene have also been working to conserve the barren ground caribou herd, which has been shrinking by as much as 50 per cent from 2015 to 2018, according to the Striking Balance episode. Deline has pivoted away from hunting the caribou, instead harvesting other animals such as muskox for subsistence purposes. In an attempt to marry traditional knowledge with western science, Deline has been collaborating with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans when monitoring lake trout. Community members and government scientists have been studying the effects of climate change in the lake, while ensuring that fish meat isnt wasted. Involving youth is another focus of the biosphere reserve, Neyelle said. Every summer, youth go out on the land with elders to learn cultural practices such as preparing hides, setting nets for trout and gathering traditional medicines. They had 300 people at one camp the youth, elders, the works, he said. That was so awesome, teaching kids everything. Part of the Sahtu Denes oral history of Great Bear Lake involves the Tudze, or water heart. Its a story that has been passed down for generations and its very much alive today, informing decisions to protect the lake and the surrounding area. Its a story that was included in Delines application to UNESCO to establish the biosphere reserve, Leonard Kenny, the former chief, told The Narwhal. The story, according to Kenny, goes something like this: a spiritual leader named Kaye Daoye set a series of hooks in the lake and, after doing so, he found one missing. This really bothered him, so he used medicine powers to look for those hooks through the lake, under the water, and he came across a beating heart, right in the middle of Great Bear Lake and it was guarded by hundreds of fish and he came to realize this was an actual water heart that kept everything alive around them. The message of the story is clear, Kenny said: water is the basis for all life. You have to protect it, you have to guard it, you have to look after it to keep it clean for all time for humanity. Not just humanity, but for Mother Earth. We have to speak for the lake, the environment, the land, because its the only thing we have to survive with. Its our job to look after it. Conservation work in Deline always circles back to Great Bear Lake, Neyelle said, noting the scars left on the landscape by the Port Radium Mine, which once contributed uranium to the Manhattan Project (and was remediated in 2009). Having more boots on the ground to keep tabs on the environment is necessary to ensure Great Bear Lake stays healthy, he said. After they wrecked everything, we kind of learned a lesson. Next time people want to work in our area, we have to make sure they have a remediation plan. Were getting there. We learned from our mistakes. Read more about: Hathras Protest: DMK leader Kanimozhi, others detained in Chennai India oi-Deepika S Chenai, Oct 05: DMK leader and Tuticorin MP Kanimozhi was detained on Monday by police in Chennai after leading a protest seeking justice for the 19-year-old Hathras woman who died after being assaulted and allegedly gang-raped in UP. "They aren't allowing us reach the Raj Bhavan. We are doing a democratic protest in a peaceful way and we have been blocked by police like how Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi were stopped by UP police," Kanimozhi told reporters on Monday. CCTV cameras, 60 cops to ensure security of Hathras family: Police Hathras Case: UP Police files 19 FIRs, ink thrown at AAP MP Sanjay Singh | Oneindia News "We don't have trust in the CBI investigation in the Hathras case. As president MK Stalin said, we need a court monitored investigation in this," she added. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday recommended a CBI probe into the alleged gang-rape and death of the 19-year-old Dalit woman that triggered a nationwide outrage. Laredo Mayor Pete Saenz Jr. and other local advocates for Down syndrome gathered on Saturday mostly virtually to proclaim October as Down Syndrome Awareness Month. This event is usually held in person with city officials and representatives of local Down syndrome organizations and their children, but this time was different because of the pandemic. However, the president of one of the largest Down syndrome organizations in the city said what is important is to raise awareness one way or another, and that this proclamation helps tremendously. The proclamation is important because it designates this month as a time when spreading awareness is so important, said Down Syndrome Association of Laredo President Priscilla B. Garcia. The reason we spread awareness is for the purpose of including those with Down syndrome in all community activities, realizing that we are all the same and educating people of the potential in education and workplace for those who live with Down syndrome. Garcia hopes the proclamation raises awareness and is encouraged that by being virtual it has the potential to reach more people. She hopes the whole month is celebrated and people take into account the large Down syndrome population in the city. I would like to remind the community that October is a month to spread joy, acceptance and love for those with Down syndrome, Garcia said. Many times, I see articles or postings that call for cures, treatments or other disease-related issues. Down syndrome, however, is different. DS is a genetic anomaly, and we advocate for inclusion, not to eliminate Down syndrome but to embrace it. While most attendees were there virtually, there were some people who were allowed to attend the event in person; however, they had to follow safety guidelines such as social distancing and wearing a face mask if not speaking. For those who attended with children, the DSAL partnered with the Imaginarium of South Texas so the kids could engage in organized activities within the center. All of these activities were done with safety precautions in mind and with the disinfection required for the areas. Garcia said the DSAL has been affected by the pandemic, and this marked the first time some members of their organization were able to gather since March. The pandemic has affected our entire calendar year, Garcia said. We have postponed events that we usually host, and we are all still adjusting. This will be our first attempt at gathering while maintaining safety guidelines in place. She noted that the organization has tried its best to remain in contact with all its members, even if they do not have the virtual means to do so, since people with Down syndrome are considered some of the most vulnerable to the illness. The pandemic has affected everyone in some way or form, Garcia said. We are doing our best to remain in touch with families and provide support from a distance. We look forward to hosting year-round events again when the time is appropriate. Many of our members have compromised immune systems due to heart issues and other related medical conditions. It has been our priority to encourage our members to stay safe and support each other virtually. Garcia said a honk parade to raise awareness for Down syndrome in the community will be held on Oct. 24, but the details are still being planned with the city and the Laredo Police Department. jorge.vela@lmtonline.com The pilot plant for the hydrogen direct reduction of iron ore started operation in Lulea, Sweden, on 31 August. Preparations will now start on scaling up the tests further on an industrial scale in a demonstration plant. The study will establish the requirements for... BLUE ASH, Ohio, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Handyman Connection, a home repair company with over 25 years of experience, announced today it was recognized as a Franchise Times Top 200+ franchise. The Franchise Times Top 200+ is an annual ranking of the 500 largest franchise systems in the United States by global system wide sales, based on the previous year's performance. "We are thrilled to be named a Top 200+ franchise by Franchise Times once again," said Jeff Wall, CEO of Handyman Connection. "This recognition is a true testament to our accomplishments as a brand over the past year and we look forward to continued growth and success in the year ahead." Handyman Connection operates more than 60 locations throughout 25 states and Canada. For more than 25 years, the brand has offered homeowners across North America a complete resource for professional craftsmanship and exemplary customer service. Handyman Connection offers a variety of services ranging from traditional home repairs to painting, remodeling and more. Additional information on the Top 200 can be found in the October issue of Franchise Times and the full list at http://www.franchisetimes.com/2020-Top-200/. About Handyman Connection Since 1991, homeowners across North America have been calling on Handyman Connection for our professional craftsmanship and exemplary customer service. Each Handyman Connection franchise is locally owned and operated, backed by the company that helped launch the industry. Our values are steeped in a long-standing dedication to the people we serve, and truly differentiate Handyman Connection as a home repair company. Contact: Julia Block Fish Consulting [email protected] 954-893-9150 SOURCE Handyman Connection Related Links http://www.handymanconnection.com The true essence of our humanity has been tested by a silent attack that requires us all to speak boldly and to show compassion for one another. ~ Lisa Winkley The Dallas Chapter of the United Nations Association of the USA, a membership organization devoted to strengthening the US-UN relationship through public education and advocacy, announced its winners for the 5th Annual UN Day Global Leadership Awards. Founded on the promise to advance peace and prosperity for people and the planet, UN Day Awards honor and celebrate champions from multiple sectors who are advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting peace and well-being around the world through bold and visionary actions. 2020 UN Day Global Leadership Award Honorees SDG 1: No Poverty Chad Houser, Founder/CEO/Executive Chef, Cafe Momentum SDG 2: Zero Hunger Dr. Cheryl Action Jackson, Founder, Minnies Pantry SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being Dr. Matthew Leveno, Medical Director of the Medical Intensive Care Unit, Parkland Health and Hospital System Pamela Farrington, Nursing Manager of Surgical ICU, Parkland Health and Hospital System SDG 4: Quality Education Dr. Candice Bledsoe, Executive Director, Action Research Center SDG 5: Gender Equality Michael D. Hsu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Kimberly-Clark Corporation SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth Mandy Price, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, Kanarys SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure Niklas Heuveldop, Senior Vice President and Head of Market Area North America, Erricson North America SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities Ann Massey Badmus, Founder and Managing Attorney, Badmus & Associates SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities Tricia Loe, President, Sustainable Concepts, LLC SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production Maria Lott, Co-Founder & CEO, Recycle Revolution SDG 15: Life on Land Shelly White, Center Director, Trinity River Audubon Center SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions Gauthami Vemula, Founder and CEO, Color me SAFE, LLC SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals John Stankey, President and Chief Operating Officer, AT&T Inc. Eleanor Roosevelt Lifetime Achievement Award Bill Holston, Executive Director, Human Rights Initiative of North Texas, Inc. UN Day award nominations were submitted by individuals across North Texas, honoring projects that respond to imminent global challenges such as climate change, migration, rising inequity, and the pandemic. The event will be live-streamed via Zoom on Saturday, October 24, at 10 am (CST). Register at https://tinyurl.com/y9ozgwlg. The true essence of our humanity has been tested by a silent attack that requires us all to speak boldly and show compassion for one another., said Lisa Winkley, President of UNA-USA Dallas. Like COVID-19, climate change, and financial collapses do not observe national or even physical borders. These challenges can only be solved through international cooperation and by the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals agenda. In addition to drawing attention to the work of the United Nations and supporters who are helping to build a more prosperous future, the event raises much-needed funds for UNA-USA Dallas initiatives. About the United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA): UNA-USA is a grassroots movement of Americans who support the vital work of the United Nations in US communities, colleges, and Congress. For more than 75 years, UNA-USA and its national network of 20,000+ members and 200 chapters have promoted strong US leadership at the UN through advocacy campaigns, youth engagement, outreach programs, and public events. Learn more about the Dallas Chapter of the United Nations Association at http://www.dallas-una.org About the United Nations Foundation: The United Nations Foundation builds public-private partnerships to address the worlds most pressing problems and broadens support for the United Nations through advocacy and public outreach. Through innovative campaigns and initiatives, the Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to help the UN solve global problems. The Foundation was created in 1998 as a US public charity by entrepreneur and philanthropist Ted Turner and now is supported by philanthropic, corporate, government, and individual donors. Learn more at http://www.unfoundation.org Press Contact Kai Stansberry Vice President of Communications kstansberry@dallas-una.org ### Donald Trump had a national security briefing over the phone on Sunday and sounded 'fine' as he spoke from his Walter Reed hospital suite, officials say. The president was told that foreign nations are monitoring his health closely but have yet to make any aggressive moves to take advantage of his sickness, according to Fox News. Officials on the call said there was nothing unusual about Trump's demeanor or mental state as he spoke by video on a secure line. The Walter Reed suite is equipped to allow the president to continue his official duties while he receives treatment for coronavirus, although doctors have floated the possibility of Trump returning to the White House as early as today. Donald Trump held a briefing from the Walter Reed hospital (where he is pictured on Sunday) in which officials updated him on national security while he battles the coronavirus Vice President Mike Pence and White House chief of staff Mark Meadows were among those on the national security call. Defense secretary Mark Esper and national security advisor Robert O'Brien also took part in Sunday's video-conference. Pence, the first in line to the presidency, has tested negative for the coronavirus and is free to go about his duties as normal, his doctor said on Friday. The Constitution's 25th Amendment would allow Pence to assume power temporarily if Trump is incapacitated, but the White House has sought to make clear that Trump is still in charge. The president today tried to bring the public's attention back to the election by tweeting a series of slogans and touting the success of the stock market. The 'around-the-world' briefing came with foreign capitals keeping a close eye on Trump's health just weeks before the November 3 election. The president was told there were no strange military movements resulting from his illness, after world leaders from UK prime minister Boris Johnson to North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un sent Trump their good wishes. Kim said he 'sincerely hopes' that the president and first lady will recover from the disease, in a statement carried by North Korean official media. Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who has sparred with Trump on a host of issues including the pandemic, also wished Trump well for a speedy recovery. Vice President Mike Pence, who is first in line to the presidency, was among the officials on the national security call with Trump on Sunday Trump caused controversy on Sunday by waving to supporters from a motorcade (pictured) despite being infectious Presidents typically receive a daily intelligence briefing including contributions from the CIA and other members of the intelligence community. The document has been provided to presidents in some form since Harry Truman occupied the White House. The briefings came to attention earlier this year when the White House said Trump had never been told about intelligence that Russia put a bounty on US soldiers. Trump received Sunday's briefing from the Maryland hospital where he was airlifted on Friday, less than 24 hours after revealing he had tested positive for Covid-19. Trump's medical team said on Sunday that the president 'continued to improve' two days after he was dramatically airlifted from the White House. White House physician Sean Conley also acknowledged for the first time that Trump had been given oxygen after a 'rapid progression' of his illness. Confusion has reigned over mixed messages from the White House after Conley's upbeat assessment on Saturday was soon followed by another claim that Trump's condition was 'very concerning'. Medics also appeared to contradict the White House timeline about when Trump was infected, before hastily backtracking. Trump, 74, said in a Sunday video that he had 'learned a lot about Covid' by 'really going to school' as he battled the virus. The president then caused further controversy by briefly leaving the hospital and waving to supporters from a bulletproof car. Trump supporters, some of them wearing masks, hold up flags as they rally outside the Walter Reed Medical Center in support of the president Health experts took to the airwaves and social media to criticize the 'stunt,' which they said demonstrated that he had learned nothing at all. 'Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary Presidential 'drive-by' just now has to be quarantined for 14 days,' said James Phillips, chief of disaster medicine at George Washington University. 'They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity.' White House spokesman Judd Deere said 'appropriate' precautions had been taken to protect Trump and his support staff, including protective gear. 'The movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do,' he added. But Zeke Emanuel, chair of the Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy at the University of Pennsylvania, described the appearance as 'shameful.' 'Making his Secret Service agents drive with a Covid-19 patient, with windows up no less, put them needlessly at risk for infection. And for what? A PR stunt,' he said. As well as oxygen, Trump has been treated with dexamethasone, a steroid used to treat inflammation in other diseases. On Saturday, the president was started on a five-day course of intravenous antiviral drug remdesivir, which is sold by Gilead Sciences. Doctors have said that both of these drugs makes sense early in the course of illness to prevent it from getting worse, but dexamethasone is generally reserved for people whose condition has deteriorated. 'We give dexamethasone to patients who require supplemental oxygen,' said Dr. Amesh Adalja, an infectious disease specialist at Johns Hopkins University. 'The biggest question would be is there a risk of deterioration, or is he on a good trajectory?' Dr. Adalja said. The White House likely relied too heavily on testing as a coronavirus mitigation tool, experts said Sunday. Boston University's Dr. Nahid Bhadelia appeared on NBC's Meet the Press and told host Chuck Todd that when it comes to this pandemic, "no one thing is a silver bullet," even a "pillar" like testing, which is a "diagnostic" tool. "You need to follow that up by having all those additional measures" like mask-wearing and social distancing which reports have indicated were not taken as seriously as testing in the White House so that "if someone does turn out to be positive, the others who may have been exposed to that person don't get sick," Bhadelia said. Dr. @BhadeliaMD says White Houses reliance on regular testing reveals the importance of other measures. #MTP Testing is diagnostic ... The dose of virus that you get exposed to may decide your severity and not wearing a mask exposes you to a larger dose of the virus. pic.twitter.com/now3F2w9TD Meet the Press (@MeetThePress) October 4, 2020 Former Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, appearing on CBS News' Face the Nation, agreed with that sentiment, telling host Margaret Brennan that the White House was "relying almost solely on testing as a way to protect" President Trump, who eventually contracted the virus. "They weren't taking any precautions beyond testing people who were going to be in contact with the president," Gottlieb said, adding that while the rapid test used by the White House "is a very good test when used appropriately," it, by nature, is likely to miss asymptomatic cases. Story continues Bhadelia did say, however, that routine testing still proved to be helpful for the White House since infections were seemingly detected early. More stories from theweek.com 4 plausible election scenarios after Trump's coronavirus diagnosis The pandemic wake-up call America needs Trump is sick. So is the GOP. Two college students fell while they were taking a selfie at a rooftop party. According to ABC News' Philadelphia station WPVI, they plummeted four stories at about two in the morning on Saturday. The police said that some Temple University students were on a rooftop in North Philadelphia, partying and drinking. Two women who were allegedly trying to take a selfie together. However, they ended up falling off from the roof. The two 19-year-olds landed in an alleyway four floors below. The students suffered injuries The WPVI reported that one of them suffered leg and ankle injuries. The other student has many injuries to multiple parts of the body and is in critical but stable condition. Neel Patel, one of the neighbors, said during an interview what he witnessed. See also: 5-Year-Old Illinois Boy Tragically Dies After Granite Tabletop Caused Head Injury He said that he was delivering pizza back to his friends when he saw ambulances everywhere. He also noted seeing police cars everywhere at the scene. Allison Byrne, on Temple University student, said that she felt bad for her friend who was there. She had a rough night trying to deal with what happened emotionally. The building's rooftop is not a safe place The WPVI reported that the building management company said that it has a parapet wall and railings in its rooftop deck. However, at least one student who had been there before said that it is not a safe place. Arnav Johri, a Temple University student, said that there is not enough room blocking that could prevent you from falling off. He explained that if you are drinking and ran right into it, you could easily fall. He noted that the railings only come like a little halfway between your hip and knee. See also: Alabama Student Tragically Dies After a Boat Accident [She Was Loved by Everyone] The circumstances around the accident and what had caused it are still not clear yet. The Philadelphia Police are assisting the Temple Police with the investigation. A student fell from the same area 7 years ago Previously, a Temple University student has fallen off from a rooftop during a party. Ali Fausnaught, a 19-year-old freshman, attended a rooftop party just a few blocks away from the recent incident in 2013. The student fell three floors to her death after she tripped over a ten-inch ledge around the roof of a building. Neighbors said that the students are still partying even though that there is a pandemic. Some of them are hoping that the tragic incident could serve as a wake-up call for the students to prevent similar accidents from happening again in the future. See also: Truck Driver Dies After Safely Rescuing Children from School Bus Crash in Georgia [Heartbreaking Story] Ada Banks, one of the neighbors, told WPVI that the young adults who are still children at heart have no fear of death. She said that they are hoping that someone would learn from what has recently happened on the rooftop because it happens all the time. Hundreds of people on Monday blockaded Sudan's Red Sea port to protest against a landmark peace agreement signed at the weekend, complaining that they had been excluded from the deal. The protesters are from among the Beja people, who were angry that representatives who signed Saturday's deal with the government came from the rival Beni Amer tribe. Since Sunday they have blocked the docks and the highway linking Port Sudan, the transit point for most of the country's foreign trade, to the rest of the country. "We're carrying out this action because those who signed (the agreement) do not represent the east of Sudan and because the text (of the deal) does not take into consideration our point of view," one of the organisers of the protest, Sidi Moussa, told AFP on Monday. The head of the dockers union, Aboud Elshribini, said: "We won't allow anything to go through as long as the government does not satisfy our demand and freeze the agreement." Men in traditional white robes carried sticks or swords and chanted "Beja Hadid", meaning "the Beja people are strong like iron." Security forces did not intervene and there was no immediate reaction from the government. The historic deal, hailed by the international community as a key milestone to ending decades of war, was signed by the government and a coalition of rebel groups, the Sudan Revolutionary Front (SRF). The rebels included groups from Darfur, Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan, while political parties from Sudan's impoverished east were also party to the agreement. All had spent decades opposing the regime of ousted president Omar al-Bashir, who was toppled in 2019. But the Beja protesters said Saturday's deal excluded them. Sudan's east has experienced several violent clashes in recent months between rival ethnic groups jockeying for political posts. The country is currently led by a precarious transitional government which took power several months after Bashir's ouster. It is struggling to rebuild an economy beleaguered by decades of conflict and US sanctions. The beloved Disney movie The Fox and the Hound has been brought to life by a vixen and a bulldog that have become the best of friends. Pauline Ashanolla, 28, from Isle of Wight, rescued six-month-old fox Marley after she was found alone, frightened and very poorly when she was either being orphaned or abandoned in April. Pauline has since dedicated all her time - even giving up her dream job as a dog groomer - to nurse Marley back to health and watch her grow into a gorgeous bushy-tailed vixen. Along the way, cleaner Pauline has also seen a beautiful friendship blossom between Marley and her four-year-old bulldog Ernie, revealing: 'They do everything together, they're inseparable. They play with each other all day, they sleep together every night, they go for walks together.' Pauline Ashanolla, 28, from Isle of Wight, rescued six-month-old fox Marley in April and has seen a beautiful friendship blossom between the vixen and her four-year-old bulldog Ernie The animals are now inseparable, with Pauline revealing the creatures do everything together, including going for walks and playing After rescuing Marley, Pauline dedicated all her time - even giving up her dream job as a dog groomer - to nurse the fox back to health Pauline compared the unusual friendship between her animals to the real life version of the 1981 Disney film The Fox and The Hound Marley was found as a tiny two-week-old cub by a couple and, unable to find a rescue centre who would take in the fox cub, they turned to Pauline, who has a passion for saving animals. After receiving a late-night call from her friends on April 21st to say they'd found a fox cub alone on the seafront near her home, Pauline rushed to help out. But the animal-lover was left stunned when she first saw Marley because the cub was so tiny she fit in the palm of Pauline's hand. Marley was also so ill, cold and malnourished that Pauline was certain she would have died if she'd been found just a few minutes later. The animal lover was stunned when she initially rescue Marley, who was so cold, ill and malnourished that Pauline was sure she would have died if she had not been found After rescuing Marley in April, Pauline spent six weeks syringe feeding Marley kitten milk every 90 minutes through the day and night Pauline said: 'Marley was so poorly when we found her, she was covered in flies and ticks. They were in her ears, everywhere. 'She was throwing up worms, really big ones, they were longer than her. She definitely would have died if she'd been found just 15 minutes later.' Over the next six weeks Pauline had to syringe feed Marley kitten milk every 90 minutes through the day and night. Marley was also prescribed various medications for four months because she was riddled with worms and ticks. But it wasn't long but the young vixen began recovering and settled into her new home with Pauline and her pets The animal lover said she was initially concerned that Marley might not be able to get along with her other pets She explained: 'After the first course of medication, it was clear she just wasn't getting better so she ended up on medication for four months. 'I've had so much help and advice from vets and fox rescues but it has been a big, big commitment looking after her.' Pauline had just started training to become a dog groomer, her dream career, before rescuing Marley and was forced to give this up because caring for the cub was such a full-time role. She added: 'I'm very tired. She has aged me about 10 years and I had to give up my dream job because this little fox came along but it's all been worth it to see her so happy and healthy.' After Pauline tenderly cared for Marley for months day and night, the fox has now grown into a cheeky and playful creature When she first brought Marley home, Pauline was concerned about how the cub would fit in with her other pets but thanks to Ernie, the little red fox is now well and truly one of the pack. She explained: 'I was worried about Marley at first and how she would get on with the dogs especially. 'Ernie was terrified of Marley at first and she didn't like him but she slowly started sleeping closer to him. 'After I'd had her about three weeks they started playing together. One day they just started running around together and they have been best friends ever since.' Pauline even takes her animals out on walks together, placing a leash on Marley so that she can enjoy the outdoors The pals cuddle up to each other for every nap, enjoy going on walks in the woods together and love getting up to mischief. She said: 'If I take Ernie out for a walk without Marley, she gets so excited when he gets home. She goes mad, she absolutely loves him. 'I call Ernie Marley's babysitter, he's my little nanny dog. If I need to get something done or I'm a bit tired, I'll tell him "go and play with your little sister" and he does. 'It's so nice seeing how well they've bonded, it's quite an unusual friendship.' After a few weeks together, Marley and bulldog Ernie started playing together and have been best friends ever since Pauline believes if Marley went back into the wild now there would be 'no way' she would survive And the adorable duo's tale bears a striking resemblance to that of the 1981 Disney classic. Pauline said: 'Dogs are usually used to hunt foxes but these two are best friends. It's like the real-life The Fox and the Hound. 'Ernie is so gentle and sweet with her, he looks like a little bruiser but he's actually a big baby.' Meanwhile, Pauline said that Ernie's kindness had helped Marley fit in with the rest of the pack. Pauline revealed 'big baby' four-year-old Ernie is 'so gentle and sweet' with Marley and looks after the little fox She said: 'Ever since her and Ernie became friends, Marley has definitely become one of the pack, bless her. 'She loves all the other animals but she likes to wind them up. She's like a child who constantly wants attention but she's different with Ernie, he's definitely her favourite.' She continued: 'I love her to bits, she is always happy and very loving. When she gets excited, she can be crazy. She does zoomies like a dog but parkours off the walls. 'She's very chatty and makes lots of weird noises. When I come home from work, she's so pleased to see me and wags her tail. According to the animal lover, Marley loves going for drives, with Pauline revealing 'sticking her head out the window' is 'one of her favourite things to do'' Pauline said giving up her dream job of becoming a dog trainer was worth it in order to see Marley 'so happy and healthy' 'She loves going for a drive and sticking her head out the window. It's one of her favourite things to do.' As much as she adores Marley, Pauline is keen to hammer home that foxes are not pets and should be left in the wild unless there are extreme circumstances. She said: 'Some people might think it's cruel that I've kept Marley but she is happy. She was so young when I rescued her that she knows no different, she's not a wild fox. The 28-year-old calls Ernie 'Marley's babysitter' and encourages the pair to play together if she needs to get something done Pauline compared the animals unusual and unique friendship to 'the real-life The Fox and the Hound' 'She imprinted on me, she thinks I'm her mum. Then she had to be on medication for so long that I can't release her. 'If she went back into the wild now there is no way she would survive. 'But I definitely don't think foxes should be pets. I don't want people to see that I have a fox and think they should do the same. 'If you like your house the way it is, you definitely don't want a fox. Marley has trashed my house. Foxes are very destructive and they're smelly.' Every 15 minutes for 24 hours, little robots named after Star Wars characters dip their tubes and drink deep of the discharge flowing out of pipes from dormitories and other buildings at the University of Virginia. The devices take samples of sewage that will be frozen, spun and analyzed for signs of viral ribonucleic acid residues that could give advance warning of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and a possible outbreak of COVID-19. The viruss RNA is shed in stool very early in an infection, with some data showing that its shed even before youre actively infected with the virus, said Dr. Amy Mathers, a pathologist and associate director of clinical microbiology at UVa Health. What were hoping to do with the robots is capture that stool to test for the RNA. With a 24-hour sampling regimen, we can get a good snapshot of everyone who has been in that building that day. The robots Chewbacca, Anakin, C-3PO, R2-D2 and Obi Wan and the stool samples they snag are all part of UVas plan to get a heads up on potential COVID-19 outbreaks on Grounds. In the effort to control the virus, the wastewater tests are used in conjunction with COVID-19 testing regimens among students and contact tracing. Theres a synergy there. Weve had incidents where there were new cases that had presented symptoms and we decided we needed to test everybody in that building, and the wastewater tests showed it was, indeed, in the population, Mathers said. Weve also found RNA in wastewater samples of a building that no one had yet tested positive in and there were no outbreaks. We were able to go in and test people before an outbreak occurred and found some positive test results. The presence of virus RNA in wastewater is not necessarily an indication of student misbehavior, Mathers said. Residence halls are a likely place for an outbreak because these are living quarters. They are where people eat and sleep and live, and you cant wear a mask 24 hours a day, she said. The Department of Corrections, meat packing plants, nursing homes anywhere that people are in close proximity can lead to an outbreak. Wastewater monitoring can give us advance notice of the virus and we can get ahead of it. Digging through a days worth of excretions on the way to a treatment plant may not be as glamorous as the white coat-clad researcher staring deeply into a test tube, but it works. Several studies have demonstrated that increases in SARS-CoV-2 RNA can be detected in environmental samples several days before detection of COVID-19 through clinical surveillance, an Aug. 7 status brief on the topic from the World Health Organization states. There is potential to use environmental surveillance for early warning, particularly of clusters or outbreaks in countries that have already contained transmission and are easing public health and social measures, or in the event of seasonality, the report states. Monitoring wastewater to track viruses is not new. Its been used in the past to track down polio and other viruses around the world. In some countries, including Russia, wastewater is monitored regularly to watch for the return of polio. There have been studies in several countries, including the United States, on monitoring wastewater for the presence of illegal drugs. Although the virus sheds in mass quantities with human stool, it does not survive well in the interesting mix that is wastewater being discharged from a building into a sewage system. RNA is not a stable molecule, so the samples and testing all have to be done on -site. We have to keep the samples really, really cold and we create a composite sample and spin it in an ultra-centrifuge and then try to identify the RNA, Mathers explained. So far, no one has detected viable virus RNA in wastewater, although Im not saying it hasnt happened ever, she said. That makes me feel comfortable about the safety of the collection and testing process. For UVa, the process was in practice prior to the students return. We spent our summer trying to figure out how to do this, Mathers said. We tried to grab samples. We took samples we knew should test positive and let them sit for a while. We sent it to an external lab for tests and found that they didnt test positive at all. That convinced us of the need to do it here. Mathers and the sample team also worked with the Virginia Department of Health to monitor wastewater from nursing homes during outbreaks. They tested student-athlete dorms when the players returned in July, comparing their results with the regular testing of the athletes. We were able to validate the process, Mathers said. By the time the students came back to Grounds, we had ironed out the kinks. If the passive surveillance of sewage works for UVa, it might work for the community at large. According to WHO, the Netherlands plans to incorporate daily sewage surveillance into its national COVID-19 monitoring, and similar approaches are being considered in Germany. Australia and New Zealand already have started programs, the organization stated in its status update. Conceivably, you could set up monitoring at the Rivanna Water & Sewer Authority to get an idea of how prevalent the virus is in the area, Mathers said. That could show a surge is coming before it happens. MOORESTOWN, NJ When voters cast their ballots in the Nov. 3 elections, they will be asked to choose three people from a field of six to serve on the Moorestown Public School District's Board of Education. Patch asked each candidate to answer questions to give voters information about who they are and their stances on various issues. We are printing their responses in full, unedited except for spelling or punctuation. Below are the responses from candidate Julie Woodrow. Previous elective office, if any None Does anyone in your family work for the school district or in politics? No Education Degree in Nursing. Im a Registered Nurse. Occupation Clinical Review RN at a local home care agency. Why are you seeking a seat on the school board? Because I want to be a voice truly representative of the wants and needs of our community. The single most pressing issue facing our school district is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it. If anyone wasnt paying attention before, THIS is the year that all eyes are on the administration and the board of education because of how COVID-19 has affected all aspects of our lives. My hat is off to the amazing teachers, administration, and the families adapting to these changes in the landscape of education. This is unprecedented change, and has proven to be a challenge for everyone involved. The hybrid model was adopted by our school system and the next obvious question is: How do we get to the point where our kids are back in school, safely, full time. As a nurse, I have a knowledge base that will allow me to look at proposed options from a health and safety perspective and as a parent of two kids in Moorestown schools, I will not only seek out community input, but I will utilize that input in my decision-making. It is critical that we take into consideration how this affects families who dont have the means for a parent to stay at home to facilitate learning or families who may have a family member with chronic illnesses who may be at higher risk of serious complications should they fall ill with COVID-19. Story continues What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking to serve on the school board seat? I, and other parents Ive spoken to, dont feel as though our thoughts and concerns about the reopening plan were heard or really taken into consideration. These are our children and this is their education! Our voices should be the loudest and most persuasive! Back when the referendum was up for a vote, so many of us didnt feel as though we were fully informed, spending plans seemed vague, and accountability for how the millions of dollars would be spent seemed lacking. If members of the community want the status quo, they are welcome to vote for the candidates seeking re-election. But if they want someone who will ask tough questions, demand answers on their behalf, and really listen to their concerns, they can vote for me. Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform. Sometimes when people run for a public position, they feel they could benefit personally or professionally from the connections made, or see it as a stepping stone on the way to further a political career. Im a nurse, a mom, a daughter, and a sister. I have no political aspirations, I very simply want to serve my community. I want to be a voice for our parents and kids. I was approached to run for the board of education because I speak my mind. I passionately defend what is true and good. Im not afraid to have a different opinion and I have no idea about the Whos Who of Moorestown. We all love our kids and just want whats best for them. What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you will be effective on the school board? As I mentioned in my bio when I began this run, its really my different jobs as a nurse that will make me effective on the Board of Education. When caring for patients, my priority is their health and safety. Im their advocate. I dont worry about upsetting a physician by waking them up at 1 a.m. for a patient. I stand between the patient and errors that could harm them. As a Board Member, I will fiercely advocate for our families and children. In my current job as a Clinical Review RN I read, in exhaustive detail, hundreds of pages of hospital/rehab/nursing home documentation every day. I assign medical codes based on that documentation and make sure that our agency clinicians documentation is correct so it can all be sent to insurance companies for reimbursement for our services. I cant make mistakes and I cant miss any detail or my agency receives lower reimbursement and in turn loses resources to effectively care for our patients. So I can assure this community that Im prepared to study anything up for a Board vote, line by line, with a fine tooth comb. Nothing will get by me. What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions? I cant stress enough how important community and parental input is to me. I will not make decisions without their input. I want to be as transparent as possible and as accessible as possible. As someone who will be elected by the community, I will vote as a representative of the community. The best advice ever shared with me was: Keep Your Side of the Street Clean. ***I stress this with my kids too. Dont worry about what other people may or may not be doing, you make sure youre doing the right thing. This article originally appeared on the Moorestown Patch A bank manager discovered a 9.07-carat diamond at a state park in southwestern Arkansas after thinking the precious gem was a piece of glass. Kevin Kinard of Maumelle found the second-largest diamond in the 48-year history of Crater of Diamonds State Park on Labor Day, according to a news release from Arkansas State Parks. Kinard said he and his friends hauled sifting equipment to the state park in Murfreesboro. Kinard noted that hes been visiting Crater of Diamonds regularly since he was a kid but had never stumbled upon a diamond until September 7. I only wet sifted for about ten minutes before I started walking up and down the plowed rows, he said. Anything that looked like a crystal, I picked it up and put it in my bag. While searching in the southeast portion of the 37.5-acre (15 hectare) diamond search area, Kinard scooped up a marble-sized crystal that had a rounded, dimpled shape. It kind of looked interesting and shiny, so I put it in my bag and kept searching, Kinard said. I just thought it mightve been glass. Several hours later, Kinard said he and his comrades stopped by the parks Diamond Discovery Center, where park workers identify visitor findings and register diamonds. I almost didnt have them check my finds, because I didnt think I had found anything, Kinard said. My friend had hers checked, though, so I went ahead and had them check mine, too. Upon having his finds assessed, an employee informed Kinard he had discovered a diamond. I honestly teared up when they told me, Kinard said. I was in complete shock! Assistant Superintendent Dru Edmonds noted that conditions were ideal for Kinard to spot the gem. Park staff plowed the search area on August 20, just a few days before Tropical Storm Laura dropped more than two inches of rain in the park, he said. The sun was out when Mr. Kinard visited, and he walked just the right path to notice the sunlight reflecting off his diamond. As of Wednesday, 246 diamonds have been registered at Crater of Diamonds State Park this year, weighing a total of 59.25 carats. On average, people find one or two diamonds there daily. Chennai, Oct 5 : Three Indian Coast Guard vessels, with pollution control facilities, will escort fire-stricken very large crude carrier (VLCC) MT New Diamond under tow, the coastal security agency said on Monday. It is also learnt the Coast Guard has prepared its bill towards expenses incurred by it by deploying its various assets in dousing the raging fire on New Diamond. In a statement, the Coast Guard said: "Indian Coast Guard Pollution Control Vessels Samudra Pavak and Samudra Praheri with integral helicopter and Shaunak with pollution response gears deployed to escort MT New Diamond under tow at high seas." According to the Coast Guard, the ships will provide "preventive pollution response cover" in case of any oil leakage contingency during New Diamond's passage to Fujairah in the UAE as it remains committed to ensure preservation and protection of marine environment and ocean. A Coast Guard official told IANS that the Indian vessels will escort the oil tanker till the edges of Indian Exclusive Economic Zone and also ensure Indian islands are safe from oil spill pollution. The oil tanker caught fire on September 3 after an explosion in its engine room, 37 nautical miles off the Sri Lankan coast. The 20-year-old VLCC, sailing under the Panama flag, departed from Kuwait's Mina Al Ahmadi on August 23 and was headed for India's Paradip port in Odisha, which it was expected to reach on September 5. The Coast Guard deployed its ships and aircrafts in dousing the fire. Queried about the expenses incurred by Coast Guard and whether a claim has been preferred with the ship's owner, a Coast Guard official told IANS that a bill has been prepared and submitted to the Central government. It is for the Central government to decide on the future course of action as the request for help to douse the fire came to the Indian government from the Sri Lankan government, the official added. In this undated photo provided by the National Institutes of Health, Harvey J. Alter, left, talks to a patient hooked up to a Kaneka-fuchi Co. Liposorber MA-01, at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Md. Alter and fellow American Charles M. Rice and British-born scientist Michael Houghton jointly won the Nobel Prize for medicine on Monday, Oct. 5, 2020, for their discovery of the hepatitis C virus, a major source of liver disease that affects millions worldwide. (Rhoda Baer/Office of National Institutes of Health History and Stetten Museum via AP) Three scientists won the Nobel Prize in medicine Monday for discovering the liver-ravaging hepatitis C virus, a breakthrough that led to cures for the deadly disease and tests to keep the scourge out of the blood supply. Americans Harvey J. Alter and Charles M. Rice and British-born scientist Michael Houghton were honored for their work over several decades on an illness that still plagues more than 70 million worldwide and kills over 400,000 each year. "For the first time in history, the disease can now be cured, raising hopes of eradicating hepatitis C virus from the world," the Nobel Committee said in announcing the prize in Stockholm. The challenge now is to make these still-expensive drugs more widely available and to stem the spread of the disease among drug users, whose sharing of needles has led to spikes in cases. "What we need is the political will to eradicate it" and to make the drugs affordable enough to do it, Alter said. Scientists had long known of the hepatitis A and B viruses, spread largely through contaminated food or water and blood, respectively, but were "toiling in the wilderness" to try to explain many other cases of liver disease until the blood-borne hepatitis C virus was identified in 1989, said Dr. Raymond Chung, liver disease chief at Massachusetts General Hospital. This combination of photos shows, from left, Harvey J. Alter, Charles M. Rice, and Michael Houghton who jointly won the Nobel Prize for medicine on Monday, Oct. 5, 2020, for their discovery of the hepatitis C virus. The major source of liver disease affects millions worldwide. (Rhoda Baer/National Institutes of Health, Richard Siemens/University of Alberta, AP Photo/John Minchillo) Now, it's the only chronic viral infection that can be cured in almost all cases within a few months, using one of roughly half a dozen drugs, Chung said. Without such treatment, the virus can lead to permanent scarring of the liver, liver cancer or the need for a transplant. In an interview with The Associated Press, Rice said he is most proud that the group's work quickly led to a test to screen donors and make the blood supply safer. "We take it for granted that if you get a transfusion, you're not going to get sick from that transfusion. That was not the case before but is certainly the case now," Rice said. Dr. Jesse Goodman, a former blood safety expert at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration now at Georgetown University, said that before testing was available, about 1 in 10 blood transfusions carried the risk of passing the virus. This undated photo provided by the National Institutes of Health shows Harvey J. Alter. Alter and fellow American Charles M. Rice and British-born scientist Michael Houghton jointly won the Nobel Prize for medicine on Monday, Oct. 5, 2020, for their discovery of the hepatitis C virus, a major source of liver disease that affects millions worldwide. (Rhoda Baer/National Institutes of Health via AP) "Now it's 1 in a million," Goodman said. Rice, 68, worked on hepatitis at Washington University in St. Louis and now is at Rockefeller University in New York. Alter, 85, worked for decades at the U.S. National Institutes of Health and remains active there. Houghton, 69, was born in Britain and worked on hepatitis at the Chiron Corp. in California before moving to the University of Alberta in Canada. Alter first discovered that blood from patients who did not have hepatitis B could still cause liver inflammation and disease, but for years the cause was unknown. A breakthrough came in 1989, when Houghton and others at Chiron cloned the virus, making its genetic identity known and allowing further research on it, said Nobel Committee member Gunilla Karlsson-Hedestam. Later, Rice developed lab tools and methods that confirmed the hepatitis C virus could cause liver disease in chimpanzees and humans, directly contributing knowledge that led to tests and treatments. Michael Houghton smiles in a screen grab from a zoom meeting arranged by the University of Alberta on Monday, Oct. 5, 2020. The British-born scientist and Americans Harvey J. Alter and Charles M. Rice jointly won the Nobel Prize for medicine on Monday, Oct. 5, 2020, for their discovery of the hepatitis C virus, a major source of liver disease that affects millions worldwide. (University of Alberta/The Canadian Press via AP) "We have not seen any more cases since 1997" of hepatitis from a transfusion, Alter said. "Currently we can cure virtually anybody who's identified. With that, it's possible to maybe even eradicate this disease over the next decade," as the World Health Organization hopes to do. Nobel Committee member Patrik Ernfors drew a parallel between this year's prize and the rush by millions of scientists around the world to find a vaccine to combat the coronavirus pandemic. "The first thing you need to do is to identify the causing virus," he said. "And once that has been done, that is, in itself, the starting point for development of drugs to treat the disease and also to develop vaccines against the disorder." Alter and Rice are now working on coronavirus research, while Houghton is trying to develop a hepatitis C vaccine. Houghton said manufacturing delays have been a problem but he expects clinical trials to begin next year in many countries, including the U.S., Germany and Italy. Charles M. Rice, professor of virology at Rockefeller University, poses for a portrait in his laboratory office, Monday, Oct. 5, 2020, in New York. Rice was awarded the Nobel Prize for Medicine or Physiology on Monday for the discovery of the hepatitis C virus along with fellow American Harvey J. Alter and British-born scientist Michael Houghton. (AP Photo/John Minchillo) "To control an epidemic, you need to have a vaccine," Houghton said. For "diseases like gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, we've had cheap drugs available for decades, and yet we still have big epidemics of those diseases." John McLauchlan, a professor of viral hepatitis at the University of Glasgow, said the three laureates' discovery has made the global elimination of the disease possible"the first time we might possibly control a viral infection using only drugs." Hepatitis C drugs were around $40,000 when they first came out less than a decade ago. They have come down to roughly a quarter of that but are still out of reach for much of the world. India, Eastern Europe, Egypt and parts of Asia, including Mongolia, remain the areas hardest hit. Monday's medicine award is the first of six prizes this year being announced through Oct. 12. The others are for work in physics, chemistry, literature, peace and economics. In this undated photo provided by the University of Alberta, Dr. Michael Houghton poses in his lab at Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology - University of Alberta, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The British-born scientist and Americans Harvey J. Alter and Charles M. Rice jointly won the Nobel Prize for medicine on Monday, Oct. 5, 2020, for their discovery of the hepatitis C virus, a major source of liver disease that affects millions worldwide. (Richard Siemens/University of Alberta via AP) Thomas Perlmann, far right, Secretary of the Nobel Assembly announces the 2020 Nobel laureates in Physiology or Medicine during a news conference at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, Monday Oct. 5, 2020. The prize has been awarded jointly to Harvey J. Alter, left on screen, Michael Houghton, center, and Charles M. Rice for the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus. (Claudio Bresciani/TT via AP) The Nobel Committee often recognizes basic science that laid the foundations for practical applications in common use today. "It takes time before it's fully apparent how beneficial a discovery is," said Thomas Perlmann, secretary-general of the Nobel Committee. The Nobel comes with a gold medal and 10 million Swedish kronor (over $1.1 million), courtesy of a bequest left 124 years ago by the prize's creator, Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel. The Nobel Foundation announcement: The Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet has today decided to award the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine jointly to Harvey J. Alter, Michael Houghton and Charles M. Rice for the discovery of Hepatitis C virus SUMMARY This year's Nobel Prize is awarded to three scientists who have made a decisive contribution to the fight against blood-borne hepatitis, a major global health problem that causes cirrhosis and liver cancer in people around the world. Harvey J. Alter, Michael Houghton and Charles M. Rice made seminal discoveries that led to the identification of a novel virus, Hepatitis C virus. Prior to their work, the discovery of the Hepatitis A and B viruses had been critical steps forward, but the majority of blood-borne hepatitis cases remained unexplained. The discovery of Hepatitis C virus revealed the cause of the remaining cases of chronic hepatitis and made possible blood tests and new medicines that have saved millions of lives. Hepatitis a global threat to human health Liver inflammation, or hepatitis, a combination of the Greek words for liver and inflammation, is mainly caused by viral infections, although alcohol abuse, environmental toxins and autoimmune disease are also important causes. In the 1940's, it became clear that there are two main types of infectious hepatitis. The first, named hepatitis A, is transmitted by polluted water or food and generally has little long-term impact on the patient. The second type is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids and represents a much more serious threat since it can lead to a chronic condition, with the development of cirrhosis and liver cancer. This form of hepatitis is insidious, as otherwise healthy individuals can be silently infected for many years before serious complications arise. Blood-borne hepatitis is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and causes more than a million deaths per year world-wide, thus making it a global health concern on a scale comparable to HIV-infection and tuberculosis. An unknown infectious agent The key to successful intervention against infectious diseases is to identify the causative agent. In the 1960's, Baruch Blumberg determined that one form of blood-borne hepatitis was caused by a virus that became known as Hepatitis B virus, and the discovery led to the development of diagnostic tests and an effective vaccine. Blumberg was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1976 for this discovery. At that time, Harvey J. Alter at the US National Institutes of Health was studying the occurrence of hepatitis in patients who had received blood transfusions. Although blood tests for the newly-discovered Hepatitis B virus reduced the number of cases of transfusion-related hepatitis, Alter and colleagues worryingly demonstrated that a large number of cases remained. Tests for Hepatitis A virus infection were also developed around this time, and it became clear that Hepatitis A was not the cause of these unexplained cases. It was a great source of concern that a significant number of those receiving blood transfusions developed chronic hepatitis due to an unknown infectious agent. Alter and his colleagues showed that blood from these hepatitis patients could transmit the disease to chimpanzees, the only susceptible host besides humans. Subsequent studies also demonstrated that the unknown infectious agent had the characteristics of a virus. Alter's methodical investigations had in this way defined a new, distinct form of chronic viral hepatitis. The mysterious illness became known as "non-A, non-B" hepatitis. Identification of Hepatitis C virus Identification of the novel virus was now a high priority. All the traditional techniques for virus hunting were put to use but, in spite of this, the virus eluded isolation for over a decade. Michael Houghton, working for the pharmaceutical firm Chiron, undertook the arduous work needed to isolate the genetic sequence of the virus. Houghton and his co-workers created a collection of DNA fragments from nucleic acids found in the blood of an infected chimpanzee. The majority of these fragments came from the genome of the chimpanzee itself, but the researchers predicted that some would be derived from the unknown virus. On the assumption that antibodies against the virus would be present in blood taken from hepatitis patients, the investigators used patient sera to identify cloned viral DNA fragments encoding viral proteins. Following a comprehensive search, one positive clone was found. Further work showed that this clone was derived from a novel RNA virus belonging to the Flavivirus family and it was named Hepatitis C virus. The presence of antibodies in chronic hepatitis patients strongly implicated this virus as the missing agent. The discovery of Hepatitis C virus was decisive; but one essential piece of the puzzle was missing: could the virus alone cause hepatitis? To answer this question the scientists had to investigate if the cloned virus was able to replicate and cause disease. Charles M. Rice, a researcher at Washington University in St. Louis, along with other groups working with RNA viruses, noted a previously uncharacterized region in the end of the Hepatitis C virus genome that they suspected could be important for virus replication. Rice also observed genetic variations in isolated virus samples and hypothesized that some of them might hinder virus replication. Through genetic engineering, Rice generated an RNA variant of Hepatitis C virus that included the newly defined region of the viral genome and was devoid of the inactivating genetic variations. When this RNA was injected into the liver of chimpanzees, virus was detected in the blood and pathological changes resembling those seen in humans with the chronic disease were observed. This was the final proof that Hepatitis C virus alone could cause the unexplained cases of transfusion-mediated hepatitis. Significance of this Nobel Prize-awarded discovery The Nobel Laureates' discovery of Hepatitis C virus is a landmark achievement in the ongoing battle against viral diseases. Thanks to their discovery, highly sensitive blood tests for the virus are now available and these have essentially eliminated post-transfusion hepatitis in many parts of the world, greatly improving global health. Their discovery also allowed the rapid development of antiviral drugs directed at hepatitis C. For the first time in history, the disease can now be cured, raising hopes of eradicating Hepatitis C virus from the world population. To achieve this goal, international efforts facilitating blood testing and making antiviral drugs available across the globe will be required. Key publications: Alter HJ, Holland PV, Purcell RH, Lander JJ, Feinstone SM, Morrow AG, Schmidt PJ. Posttransfusion hepatitis after exclusion of commercial and hepatitis-B antigen-positive donors. Ann Intern Med. 1972; 77:691-699. Feinstone SM, Kapikian AZ, Purcell RH, Alter HJ, Holland PV. Transfusion-associated hepatitis not due to viral hepatitis type A or B. N Engl J Med. 1975; 292:767-770. Alter HJ, Holland PV, Morrow AG, Purcell RH, Feinstone SM, Moritsugu Y. Clinical and serological analysis of transfusion-associated hepatitis. Lancet. 1975; 2:838-841. Alter HJ, Purcell RH, Holland PV, Popper H. Transmissible agent in non-A, non-B hepatitis. Lancet. 1978; 1:459-463. Choo QL, Kuo G, Weiner AJ, Overby LR, Bradley DW, Houghton M. Isolation of a cDNA clone derived from a blood-borne non-A, non-B viral hepatitis genome. Science. 1989; 244:359-362. Kuo G., Choo QL, Alter HJ, Gitnick GL, Redeker AG, Purcell RH, Miyamura T, Dienstag JL, Alter CE, Stevens CE, Tegtmeier GE, Bonino F, Colombo M, Lee WS, Kuo C., Berger K, Shuster JR, Overby LR, Bradley DW, Houghton M. An assay for circulating antibodies to a major etiologic virus of human non-A, non-B hepatitis. Science. 1989; 244:362-364. Kolykhalov AA, Agapov EV, Blight KJ, Mihalik K, Feinstone SM, Rice CM. Transmission of hepatitis C by intrahepatic inoculation with transcribed RNA. Science. 1997; 277:570-574. Recent winners of the Nobel Medicine Prize Here is a list of the winners of the Nobel Medicine Prize in the past 10 years following the announcement of the 2020 award on Monday: 2020: Americans Harvey Alter and Charles Rice, together with Briton Michael Houghton, for the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus, leading to the development of sensitive blood tests and antiviral drugs. 2019: William Kaelin and Gregg Semenza of the US and Britain's Peter Ratcliffe for establishing the basis of our understanding of how cells react and adapt to different oxygen levels. 2018: Immunologists James Allison of the US and Tasuku Honjo of Japan, for figuring out how to release the immune system's brakes to allow it to attack cancer cells more efficiently. 2017: US geneticists Jeffrey Hall, Michael Rosbash and Michael Young for their discoveries on the internal biological clock that governs the wake-sleep cycles of most living things. 2016: Yoshinori Ohsumi (Japan) for his work on autophagya process whereby cells "eat themselves"which when disrupted can cause Parkinson's and diabetes. 2015: William Campbell (US citizen born in Ireland) and Satoshi Omura (Japan), Tu Youyou (China) for unlocking treatments for malaria and roundworm. 2014: John O'Keefe (Britain, US), Edvard I. Moser and May-Britt Moser (Norway) for discovering how the brain navigates with an "inner GPS". 2013: Thomas C. Suedhof (US citizen born in Germany), James E. Rothman and Randy W. Schekman (US) for work on how the cell organises its transport system. 2012: Shinya Yamanaka (Japan) and John B. Gurdon (Britain) for discoveries showing how adult cells can be transformed back into stem cells. 2011: Bruce Beutler (US), Jules Hoffmann (French citizen born in Luxembourg) and Ralph Steinman (Canada) for work on the body's immune system. Explore further Nobel Prize in Physics to be awarded 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Hundreds of Algerians defied a nationwide ban on protests and took to the streets Monday to demand democratic change and mark the anniversary of 1988 demonstrations that ushered in reforms. Around 400 to 500 demonstrators in Algiers tried to march to the city centre but were dispersed by police who made a number of arrests, an AFP reporter said. A prisoners support committee, the CNLD, said more than 20 people were arrested including students. Protests also took place in several other areas of Algeria, with demonstrators chanting: "The people want the fall of the regime" and "Yes to a civil state, no to a military state", according to the CNLD and social media. They called for the release of members of the Hirak, the anti-government protest movement which last year swept ailing president Abdelaziz Bouteflika from power. More than 60 people are currently behind bars for acts related to Hirak, according to the CNLD. Protesters had kept up rallies after Bouteflika stepped down, demanding the ouster of the entire state apparatus, widely seen as inept and corrupt. But weekly demonstrations came to a halt earlier this year due to restrictions to curb the coronavirus pandemic. With less than a month to go before a key referendum on constitutional reform -- a vote the government hopes will meet protesters' demands -- many expect a resurgence of rallies. Monday's protests also marked the anniversary of October 1988 demonstrations which rocked Algiers, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency. The protests left 150 dead, according to an official toll, but rights activists say the actual figure was more 500. The army clamped down on the demonstrators but introduced political reforms which brought an end to a single-party system. amb-ad-sc-agr/hkb/hc Ethiopia has banned all flights over its giant new hydropower dam on the Blue Nile for security reasons, the head of its civil aviation authority said on Monday. Ethiopia is locked in a dispute with Egypt and Sudan over its $4 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, which Cairo has said could threaten its main supply of water. "All flights have been banned to secure the dam," the director-general of the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority, Wesenyeleh Hunegnaw, told Reuters by phone. He declined to give more details on the reasons. Last week, air force chief Major General Yilma Merdasa told local media that Ethiopia was fully prepared to defend the dam from any attack. Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan failed to strike a deal on the operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam before Ethiopia began filling the reservoir behind the dam in July. The dam is at the centre of Ethiopia's bid to become Africa's biggest power exporter. The structure is about 15 km (9 miles) from the Ethiopian border with Sudan on the Blue Nile - a tributary of the Nile river, which gives Egypts 100 million people about 90% of their fresh water. (Reporting by Dawit Endeshaw Editing by Maggie Fick and Short link: Bangladesh became a part of the Belt and Road Initiative in 2016 and has seen its ties with Beijing grow exponentially in recent years Xi Jinping's recent call for China and Bangladesh to jointly promote the multi-billion Belt and Road Initiative has only served to heighten India's concerns about the initiative. With India's ties with its neighbours even including Nepal having been strained in the recent past, the prospect of Dhaka drawing closer to China is a worrying one. Bangladesh became a part of the Belt and Road Initiative in 2016 and has seen its ties with Beijing grow exponentially in recent years. These are developments that India would be tracking closely for their ramifications in the neighbourhood. Xi pitches for closer ties with Bangladesh On Sunday, Xi Jinping said he stands ready with Bangladesh's leaders to better align the two countries' strategies and jointly promote the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative. Xi made the remarks in an exchange of congratulatory messages with Bangladesh president Mohammad Abdul Hamid, on the 45th anniversary of the establishment of the bilateral diplomatic relationship. In his message, Xi hailed the steady and long-term friendship, saying he is ready to work with Hamid to better align development strategies with Bangladesh. Further, he specifically said that China is seeking to step up cooperation under the framework of the BRI and push forward the China-Bangladesh strategic, cooperative partnership to a new level, according to official media. Also on Sunday, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang exchanged congratulatory messages with Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Li said in his message that China is willing to deepen practical cooperation with Bangladesh in various fields and promote the steady and sustainable development of the China-Bangladesh strategic partnership of cooperation to better benefit the two countries and their people. For her part, Hasina said the strategic partnership of cooperation between Bangladesh and China has been developed from the two countries' time-tested friendship and cooperation. The strengthened Bangladesh-China cooperation has unleashed enormous potential in maintaining peace, security and stability in the region and even around the world, Hasina said according to Xinhua News. India's concerns on BRI The BRI seeks to build rail, maritime and road links from Asia to Europe and Africa in a revival of ancient Silk Road trading routes. It is among Xi Jinping's top priority initiatives and aims firm up Chinas global influence. The initiative has, however, attracted allegations, especially from the US, of debt-diplomacy after Sri Lanka handed over its Hambantota Port to a state-run Chinese firm in 2017 for a 99 years' lease in a debt swap amounting to $1.2 billion. Malaysia has also deferred several projects under the BRI, citing cost revaluation. The BRI, earlier known as One Belt One Road (OBOR), has been a major bone of contention between India and China as one portion of the corridor passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Besides Pakistan, where China initiated over USD 60 billion as part of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), China has stepped up its huge infrastructure investments in Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, sparking rising concerns about its growing influence in India's immediate neighbourhood. An article in China Daily has quoted Sheikh Fazle Fahim, the president of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry, as saying that BRI-related projects in the country have reached a value of around $10 billion. One of the major projects under the BRI is the Bangladesh Power System Upgrade and Expansion Project, which aims to provide electricity connections to over 2.5 million rural people. India has consistently been critical of the BRI and has refused to join it. In 2018, India was the only country in the eight-nation Shanghai Cooperation Organisation grouping which opposed the initiative. In his address at the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a clear reference to the BRI, had said any mega connectivity project must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the countries and assured that India will support projects which ensure inclusivity. Possible strategies Although Bangladesh under Sheikh Hasina has broadly had warm relations with India, New Delhi has good reason to view the involvement of Dhaka in the BRI with concern. As of now, none of the projects that China is executing in Bangladesh have strategic implications, as an article in The Diplomat states. However, India would need to closely track present as well as future projects under the BRI in Bangladesh in order to secure its strategic interests. Delay in bilateral negotiations between India and Bangladesh also presents the danger of alienating the latter country. Among the issues which have seen such a delay is the water-sharing deal on the Teesta river. The Bangladesh government is now considering a proposal from China on the management and restoration of the Teesta river, according to an article in Scroll. The Quad which consists of India, Japan, Australia and the US also presents an opportunity to counter China's rising influence through BRI. However, as an article in Observer Research Foundation notes, "The Quad nations will have to present their own model if only to underscore the normative differences between the Chinese and their approach. China with its BRI is providing a new economic template to the world, and it is important for those powers which view Beijings approach as top-down, opaque and self-serving to pro-actively provide credible alternatives." As China forges closer ties with Bangladesh through the BRI, India needs to work both on maintaining good ties with Dhaka and also countering the influence of the initiative through strategic alliances. With inputs from PTI The Da Nang Department of Tourism organized a ceremony to welcome the first group of tourists to the city on Sunday morning after Vietnam had managed to stall new outbreaks stemming from the touristy destination in July. The group included 55 people from Hanoi, who arrived in Da Nang by plane at 9:30 am the same day. They were given souvenirs by local tourism officials, the managers of the Da Nang airport, and national carrier Vietnam Airlines. A travel company had planned to take them to Da Nang in August but it had had to postpone its plan over new outbreaks of COVID-19 in the coastal city in late July. As Vietnam has spent 33 successive days detecting zero community-based infections, the company resumed the plan to bring its clients there. Da Nang tourism officials upgraded the 55 tourists hotel from three to four stars and treated them to a free gala on Monday evening. Le Dinh Kien, one of the Hanoi visitors, expressed his trust in the safety of the Da Nang destination. Kien and his family feel assured to visit Da Nang as they love it and Vietnam has well controlled the coronavirus epidemic, he said. The return of the first group of tourists proves important to Da Nang, the local Department of Tourism said, adding that city authorities vowed to ensure safety for visitors. A new wave of infections struck Vietnam on July 25, when touristy Da Nang logged the first community transmission after 99 days of zero domestic cases nationwide. A total of 551 local cases were then logged across the country in the following weeks, the majority linked to Da Nang. The nation spent more than a month aggressively tracing contacts and managing to suppress the outbreak afterward. The national tally now stands at 1,097, with 1,022 recoveries and 35 virus-related deaths, according to the health ministry. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! It has been exactly seven days since the 19-year-old Dalit girl succumbed to alleged assault injuries in a Delhi hospital and the media has been pursuing the story with a madness that is rarely seen. Despite the fact that hours of footage on TV channels and reams of paper in the print media have been spent on the story, there are still questions that remain unanswered in the Hathras incident where the girl was allegedly raped and strangulated by four men belonging to upper caste Thakur families in Boolgarhi village. RAPE OR NO RAPE? The girl, in the video footage taken by TV channels in the Delhi hospital, is heard saying that she was raped before being strangulated. Her own mother makes different claims in videos taken before and after her daughter's death. In one video, she alleges that Sandeep, one of the accused, tried to strangulate the girl and ran away when the mother called out for help. In another video, she claims that her daughter was sexually assaulted. The girl's brother, who is now also being accused of honour killing, has said that his sister was found without clothes in the field. The question is that why is the family changing its stand repeatedly? As a family member of the accused says, "It is abundantly clear that the family knows that it will get more money and more sympathy if it pushes the rape angle and that this is what they are doing this. Can rape take place at 9.30.in the morning in a field in a village when everyone is out working?" MEDICAL REPORT ADG Law and order Prashant Kumar, meanwhile, has said that the medical report did not confirm rape on the girl. Significantly, the incident took place on September 14 and the girl's medical examination was done on September 22 - eight days later. Medical experts feel that the delay in conducting the medical examination may have contaminated evidences. With the state government denying rape and the family insisting on it, opposition parties are naturally using the issue to target the Yogi Adityanath government. PAST ENMITY The incident is being projected as a result of a caste war between Thakurs and Dalits. However, both the sides are choosing to ignore the fact that violence had taken place, at least twice in one decade, between the families of the girl and the accused persons. The girl's family, apparently, wants to hide this fact because they do not want to dilute the severity of the September 14 incident which led to girl's death. The accused are hiding facts because they do not want to attach a motive to the incident. CASTE WAR While the Boolgarhi village has been split wide open on caste lines on this incident, most of the local residents are unwilling to speak and those who agree, request anonymity. One such resident who spoke to IANS, said, "Everyone knows that the girl was rather friendly with two of the accused. They would often talk on phone and everyone in the village knows about it. The police should take away their mobile phones and check the call records instead of allowing the incident to turn into tamasha." Incidentally, on Friday, the police had confiscated the phones of the family members and some of them raised a hue and cry about this on TV channels after which the phones were given back to them. It is mainly because of this fact that the Thakurs and other upper castes in Hathras, and in the rest of the state, have started rallying behind the four accused persons. Upper caste panchayats are being held to muster support for the accused and the incident is snowballing into a caste war. DISTRICT MAGISTRATE'S ROLE The role of the district magistrate Praveen Kumar Laxar has been under the scanner. Sources insist that it was Laxar who forced the cremation at night and got the family locked up when they began protesting. Later, when he banned media entry into the village on Friday, he reportedly misbehaved with the victim's family which further aggravated the crisis. Laxar reportedly is connected to a top BJP leader and is this what has stalled his removal/transfer from Hathras? MEDIA MANAGEMENT Another unanswered question in the Hathras incident is the media management by those close to the family. According to sources, TV channels were asked to reach Hathras before even the girl's mortal remains could reach there. The police made a huge mistake by cremating the body in the dead of the night without realising the media presence at the site. As TV channels went all out to highlight the nocturnal cremation, the government was left red in the face. The question is, who managed the media presence in Boolgarhi village for the victim's family to ensure that the issue turns into a national event? Who stands to gain from highlighting the incident and why and how did the media allow itself to be used? A senior government official said on Monday they had recordings of conversations between the family and mediapersons who are telling them what statements to make. "We have registered an open FIR and investigations will reveal the truth," the official said. DAMAGE CONTROL The Yogi government launched a damage-control exercise after the damage had already been done. Yogi Adityanath brought in additional chief secretary Navneet Sehgal to take charge of information. Sehgal is known for his excellent handling of the media and shares a warm rapport with mediapersons. Though he may not be able to undo the damage that has already been done, he can certainly prevent further damage. The chief minister has also hired a PR firm that is focusing mainly on foreign media and national outlets. However, the PR agency has not done much till now to redeem the situation. POLITICS Even though every political party is pushing the humanity angle in the Hathras case, it is evident that with a year and a half left for assembly elections in UP, the opposition is using the incident to target the Yogi Adityanath government. The chief minister is single-handedly battling the opposition with virtually no support from ministerial colleagues even the party. The Hathras incident has become a 'Yogi versus the rest' battle and this situation raises more questions than it answers, in politics. Donald Trumps military physician said he is returning to the White House even though he "may not entirely be out of the woods yet" and will still receive powerful drugs once back at the executive mansion. Dr Sean Conley again sidestepped a number of questions during what has become a daily update briefing, including when the president had his last positive coronavirus test and how the medical team could ensure Mr Trump would be safe quarantining at the White House. The Navy doctor did not rule out that Mr Trump could soon return to the campaign trail: About travel, well see. Hes back, Dr Conley said of the president, saying laws that protect any patients privacy prevent him from discussing certain tests like chest scans. The physician said there is no evidence of live virus in Mr Trumps system, which he claimed means he is less at risk of spreading it to others. Dr Conley smirked as he dodged questions and said things like we send patients home all the time with drugs while ignoring the powerful nature of the ones Mr Trump is on. But the medical team was unable to guarantee the Mr Trump would ride out the rest of his quarantine period in the White House residence. Asked if he would be moving around inside the White House, perhaps even working from the Oval Office, Dr Conley merely said the medical team would do whatever they need to to help Mr Trump do his day job. ROCHESTER, N.Y., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Chris Missick, candidate for State Senate in New York's 55th District, has called on his opponent to follow the leadership of Vice President Biden. Christopher Missick, Candidate for New York State Senate "Since we began this campaign we have stayed away from Presidential politics because this race is about your house not the White House. My opponent, Samra Brouk and Democrats more generally, have taken the opposite approach. They use every opportunity to try to make every race about the President in their negative ads and flyers. Joe Biden has now taken down all of his negative ads against President Trump while he is treated for the Coronavirus. That's a classy move and one Samra Brouk and New York Democrats should follow. It's in poor taste to continue to use attack ads and mailers mentioning the President while he fights to regain his health from Covid-19 at Walter Reed Medical Center. I call on Samra Brouk and all New York Democrats to stop these negative attacks immediately." Christopher Missick is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, a lawyer, and a small businesses owner. He and his family and friends have experienced a barrage of unfounded negative attacks from his opponent and New York Senate Democrats. He owns and operates a vineyard and winery in the Finger Lakes region of New York. To read more about Chris Missick's platform go to votemissick.com. Contact: Erin Loftus 585-478-2858 SOURCE Missick for Senate FAIRFIELD Sacred Heart University is backing out of a planned partnership to absorb portions of the University of Bridgeport. The pullout was made public on Monday with a late morning message to the Sacred Heart community. Sacred Heart, along with Goodwin University in East Hartford and Paier College in Hamden, announced on the UB campus in June that it would take over buildings and programs at the struggling 97-year-old higher education institution. Sacred Heart initially said it would take over five programs, including engineering, the School of Chiropractic, a graduate program in nutrition, some education certificate programs and a program in counselor education. More recently that was down to two programs: nutrition and chiropractic. When Sacred Heart University officials spoke to a Bridgeport City Council committee last week, SHU administrators said they were looking at one or two programs. Goodwin University was and still is expected to take the lions share of UB programs with Paier College taking just UBs school of design. In both cases, the programs would remain on the Bridgeport campus. In a memo to the Sacred Heart community, President John Petillo said after a due diligence process and an attempt to verify the finances, SHU is unable to move forward with this acquisition. The enrollment projections, and the corresponding financial projections, provided to us by UBs principal lender and its consulting firm when the letter of intent was signed, did not materialize, Petillo said. The enrollment numbers turned out to be significantly less than what we were led to believe. We made another offer, in line with the new projections, and that was turned down. Deborah Noack, a Sacred Heart spokeswoman, said the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has put a strain on college finances across the nation, had nothing to do with the decision. Petillo said from the beginning, SHU was motivated by a desire to serve students in our area. Admittedly, this was a complicated arrangement with many partners, but we were hopeful that we could make it work for all involved, Petillo said. In the end, an upside may be that our pulling out makes it less complicated for everyone else to move forward. Goodwin President Mark Scheinberg, who said he learned of the pullout on Monday morning, said the change does not materially hurt the partnership in any way and actually makes it less complicated. Sacred Heart was down to taking two programs in health science with shared labs and faculty with other health science programs Goodwin intends on acquiring. That now includes chiropractic medicine and nutrition. This in some ways simplifies the entire thing, Scheinberg said. What they were taking was not a big piece of the whole. We wish Sacred Heart well. Scheinberg said his board continues to be excited about and committed to investing heavily to make the partnership work. Without going into specifics, Scheinberg has said Goodwin is spending tens of millions of dollars on the venture. We think the University of Bridgeport has a great future, Scheinberg said. UBs enrollment dip, cited by Sacred Heart, was not as concerning to Goodwin. It was a little bit less, didnt scare us at all, Scheinberg said without getting into specifics. This deal is not about this semester. This deal is about committing to Bridgeport forever. We just have to get over this hump. UB Acting President Stephen Healey said he learned of Sacred Hearts decision Monday as well. Its not a huge surprise, Healey said. It would have been lovely to have SHU involved but its OK. Thats my reaction to it. We are going to continue to move forward. Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim, who was at UB along with Gov. Ned Lamont when the partnership was announced, on Monday, participated in a conference call about changes in partnership participants. Afterwards, city officials, in a statement, said the partnership with UB, Goodwin and Paier remains steadfast. While Sacred Heart may not financially participate in this acquisition ... Goodwin is prepared to take on the lions share of UB programs, remains committed, and is looking forward to merging the Hartford and Bridgeport campuses, city officials said. The effects of Goodwin and Paier acting as the sole partners now allow the institutions to better streamline expenses on the universities services, as well as necessary resources for students including educators, staff and programs. lclambeck@ctpost.com; twitter/lclambeck Two private schools affiliated to the Central Board Secondary School (CBSE) re-opened on Monday following the odd-even plan and with all safety precautions in place, seven months after the nationwide lockdown was announced amid the Covid-19 pandemic. At Nankana Sahib Public School, Gill Road, the odd and even roll number students will attend classes from 8am to 11 am and 11.30am to 2.30pm respectively. With all safety measures in place, students of Classes 10 and 12 attended classes according to their roll numbers. Students had to undergo thermal screening at the entry gate and all social distancing norms were followed. The school authorities said that more parents have given consent to send their children to school. With just five months left for board exams, teachers are clearing students doubts and trying to complete the syllabus in time. Principal Harmeet Kaur Waraich said, We have reopened the school with all safety measures in place. Students of Classes 10 and 12 are coming to school following the odd-even plan and after October 30, if everything goes well, we will allow students of Classes 9 and 11 to visit the school for doubt clearance. At BCM School, Dugri, students of Classes 10 and 12 will report on alternate days. While, on Monday, Class 12 students of all streams reported in two batches. Students of the science and humanities stream came in the first batch and commerce students reported in the second batch. Over 72 students took guidance from subject teachers and only six students were allowed in a class to maintain social distancing. Principal Vandna Shahi said, To make the students aware of Covid precautions, we have sent a video explaining the importance of wearing masks, interacting with anyone from a distance, and staying at home if unwell. I have also visited all the classrooms and taken all precautions for the safety of students and staff. Confirming earlier reports, U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., announced Monday he isnt seeking reelection. Toomey, 58, is in the midst of his second term in the Senate and his term ends in 2022. At a news conference in Bethlehem, Toomey also said he does not plan on running for governor. I will not be running for reelection in 2022 and I will not be running for governor. I will serve out the remainder of my term, Toomey said. After that, my plan is to go back to the private sector," Toomey said. Earlier this year, there was speculation that Toomey would possibly be running for governor in two years. Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf is in his second term and state law bars governors from serving more than two terms. There was also speculation Toomey would run for a third term in the Senate. Toomey said his decision was not political but personal. He thanked his wife, Kris, and his family for their support. It ends up being a lot of time away from home. And I look forward to more time back at home," Toomey said. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported the news Sunday that Toomey wasnt seeking another term, citing two people familiar with his plans. A Lehigh County Republican, Toomey was elected in 2010, defeating Democrat Joe Sestak. Toomey succeeded longtime Republican Sen. Arlen Specter, who ran as a Democrat and lost in the primary that year. Toomey served three terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Democrats have lambasted Toomey, saying he has shown too little willingness to stand up to President Donald Trump. Democrats also criticized Toomey when he said hed vote for Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett after he previously opposed the nomination of Judge Merrick Garland in the final year of President Barack Obamas second term. Toomey said he thought the Senate should consider proceeding on Barretts nomination and said he thought it could be done safely before the election despite the pandemic. In recent days, three Republican senators - Sens. Mike Lee, Thom Tillis and Ron Johnson - have tested positive for the coronavirus. At times, Toomey has angered Republicans for his work to expand background checks for gun sales. He also voted against Trumps North American trade deal earlier this year, saying it would lead to higher prices for American consumers. When Ive disagreed with him, which I have, I havent been bashful about saying so, Toomey said. Toomey played a key role in securing passage of Trumps tax cuts in 2017. Sen. Bob Corker, R-Tenn., told The Washington Post Toomey was central in crafting the tax reform package. Toomey said he was grateful to play a role in the tax reform package. In his remarks, Toomey noted what he described as a strong partnership with U.S. Sen. Bob Casey Jr., D-Pa., saying their relationship surpassed those of other senate duos of separate parties. He cited their work on judicial appointments and on behalf of those in law enforcement. Toomey said he hoped to serve his last two years with a Republican Senate majority and he said he hoped to spend his last two years with President Donald Trump serving a second term. He endorsed Trump in his re-election bid. And he said he hoped to serve as chairman of the Senate Banking Committee. Toomey said Trumps coronavirus diagnosis last week played absolutely no role whatsoever. Toomey said he did inform the president of his plans just before Trump was diagnosed with COVID-19. He said he suspects the president has other matters on his mind at the moment and wished him a speedy recovery. He said he made the announcement now because people had been reaching out to him to express their support for his future political goals. Toomey said he owed it to those people to make it clear he didnt want to run again. I made a decision. Its not going to change, Toomey said. I wanted to let everybody know. Toomey also said it would be helpful for Republicans thinking about running for senator or governor to get organized and plan their campaigns. With Toomey not seeking either office, its expected a host of Republicans will consider campaigns. Toomey was asked if he thought he could win if he chose to run again. Speaking carefully, Toomey said hed run five competitive races in the Senate and House and won them all, so he thought he could if he chose that route. More from PennLive Debate emerges over $500M education bill; some fear it may lead to full-fledged school vouchers in Pa. Pa. elections officials rebuff claims that election will be marred by fraud By Nam Sang-so In the summer of 1931, a newly-wed couple holding a large cloth bag each stood by the bus stop at Uljin, North Gyeongsang Province. The county is famous as a place to catch fine crabs but probably the most isolated rural district in South Korea. There was no electricity nor telephone lines connected until the early 1960s. Still, some native farmers and fishers have never seen a train. The man was 29 and his wife was 18 years old. In order to survive in a poor farm village, they needed to minimize the number of mouths to feed. Waiting for a bus to arrive, they couldn't decide which bus to take; northbound for Manchuria or southbound for Japan. They were told they could get a large plot of farm land in China, and since the man knew only farming, he was tempted to head north. A bus, releasing black smoke from a wood burning engine, arrived. It was a southbound bus. The bride suggested to get on it, as she heard Japan was more flourishing than China. And so they began a journey that took them to the middle of Japan, not getting off the train at Hiroshima or Tokyo. In the terrible year of 1933, I was born with a Japanese name. In the same year Prince Akihito, later Emperor Akihito, now retired, was born. Also a huge earthquake and 29 meter-high Tsunami hit Japan's Pacific shores and caused extensive damage and resulted in 1,500 deaths, the same number missing and 12,000 injured persons. In Germany, Hitler grabbed power and established Nazi Germany. In the United States, Franklin Roosevelt became the 32nd president. 1933 was a terrible year in a terrible period. Just two years earlier the Imperial Army began its invasion and occupation of Manchuria and later Northern China which would only end with the Allies defeating the army in 1945. In 1941 Japan attacked Pearl Harbor stoking the Pacific War. It truly was a terrible time but I was lucky that Japan surrendered in 1945, just a few years before our generation would have been recruited and sent to the front lines. And if the United States had not dropped the atomic bombs in August, we would have had to make suicide attacks with bamboo spears against the invading American soldiers. It was also a redeeming feature in a tragic situation in Japan that the post-war occupation force was only one country, the United States Force, unlike the Korean Peninsula which was divided between parties with conflicting political ideologies. My parents, when they returned to their home village in Uljin with six children tagging along in 1946, were met by a great famine, and then the Korean War devastated the nation. Still the goddess of fortune kept smiling on us; we all survived the war. In retrospect, I'm grateful to my mother who had suggested to take the south bound bus some 90 years ago. There are gasoline engine buses running in both directions on the same Route 7, now a national highway. I'm writing this essay happily on my Apple iPad sitting on a wooden bench in the lobby of Uljin bus stop, relishing a cold Coca-Cola. The writer (sangsonam@gmail.com) is a Korean War veteran. New Delhi: SpiceJet on Monday (October 5, 2020) announced that they are going to operate long haul flights from India to London from December 4. The United Kingdom's capital will be connected with two major Indian cities namely Delhi and Mumbai. SpiceJet said that it will become the first Indian low-cost airline to operate flights to the UK. The airline will operate thrice-a-week to London including twice from Delhi and once-a-week from Mumbai. From Delhi, SpiceJet flight will depart at 1 pm on every Friday and Sunday and reach London at 5.30 pm on the same day, while from Mumbai, the flight will depart on every Monday at 12.45 pm and will arrive in London at 5.30 pm on the same day. Flights from London to Delhi will depart on every Monday and Friday at 7.30 pm which will arrive in Delhi at 7.55 am on the next day. Flights from London to Mumbai will depart on every Sunday at 7.30 pm which will arrive in Mumbai at 8.45 am on the following day. Also read | SpiceJet launches daily flight services from Darbhanga to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru These non-stop flights from India will be operating to London's Heathrow airport and will operate under the air bubble agreement with the UK. SpiceJet had operated its maiden long-haul charter flight from Londons Heathrow airport on August 20 to repatriate 329 Indian & British nationals. Ajay Singh, Chairman & Managing Director, SpiceJet said, "This is a huge milestone for us and I am proud of the fact that SpiceJet will be the first Indian low-cost airline to operate non-stop long-haul flights to the UK. London is one of the busiest long-haul destinations from India and our convenient flight timings should suit the convenience of our passengers perfectly." "While the last few months has been the worst-ever period for the global aviation industry battling the COVID pandemic, I am proud of the determination and resolve shown by Team SpiceJet. From repatriating over 1.3 lakh Indian nationals from across the globe including Amsterdam, Toronto, Moscow, Rome and London to operating wide-body passenger and cargo flights to now starting flights to Heathrow, the last few months have been very significant for us." "Providing non-stop connectivity from India to different parts of the world and strengthening our own airport hubs has been a long-cherished dream and with our London operations, we have taken a small step in that direction. We hope our passengers, both business and leisure, make the most of this opportunity of creating fond memories forever with us," stated Singh. To celebrate the launch of its first long-haul flight, the airline is offering all-inclusive introductory return promotional fare starting at Rs 53,555 on both Delhi-London-Delhi and Mumbai-London-Mumbai routes. The equivalent return fare in Pound Sterling is GBP 565. The one-way starting fare will be Rs 25,555 (GBP 270) on DelhiLondon and Mumbai-London routes and Rs 29,555 (GBP 312) on London-Delhi and London-Mumbai routes. SpiceJet will use an Airbus A330-900 Neo aircraft for these flights. The 371-seater twin-aisle A330 has a configuration of 353 economy and 18 business class seats and is said to easily fly non-stop from India to major destinations across the world like New York, San Francisco, Toronto, Paris, London, Tokyo, Sydney, Melbourne, Johannesburg, Sao Paulo amongst others. Notably, the scheduled international passenger services have been suspended in India since the first coronavirus induced lockdown on March 23 but the Vande Bharat Mission flights are operating with an aim to bring back stranded Indians from foreign destinations. Earlier on Sunday, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said that more than 19.7 lakh have returned to India and flown out since the Vande Bharat Mission began on May 6. Our mission is to reach out to every stranded Indian. More than 19.7 lakh have returned to India & flown out since VBM began on 6 May. We continue undaunted. 6 19.7 pic.twitter.com/dKptPCxzce Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) October 4, 2020 Although, the domestic operations are in full flow as there were 1,461 departures on October 3 which saw a total of 1,52,412 flyers and 3,05,494 footfalls at the airports. Air travel continues to emerge as India's prefered, safe & time saving mode of transport. Domestic Operations on 3 Oct 2020. Departures 1461 Total number of flyers 1,52,412 Total movements 2925 Footfalls at airports 3,05,494 pic.twitter.com/a3YVUipkJC Hardeep Singh Puri (@HardeepSPuri) October 4, 2020 Live TV Kombat, a niche marketing agency for the wellness industry announces its launch in September 2020. The Delhi-based agency will provide services for brands in a variety of areas including Social Media, PR, Events, Collaborations, Marketing Strategy and more. KOMBAT is founded by Neha Lidder, a specialist in marketing for over 20 years, and includes a team of professionals with backgrounds in design, PR and digital marketing. Having worked in varied industries like Aviation, Telecom, Luxury Retail & Hospitality, Neha Lidder is a pioneer in revolutionising businesses and building brands like Virgin Atlantic, Burberry, DLF Emporio, The Chanakya and many more to name a few. She is a name to reckon in the field of Marketing with her creative eye to detail and innovating bespoke strategies to grow the brands. In addition to this, Neha Lidder is a fitness enthusiast, certified practicing Yoga Teacher from Sivananda Yoga Vedanta recognized by worldwide Yoga Alliance and an avid cross fitter. Neha Lidder took a huge leap to become an Entrepreneur with her first project, Platoon Advisory, a marketing consultancy for Luxury & Lifestyle Industry, in 2018. Post having a successful run of the company and working with brands like Outlook Splurge, Whiz Cafe, Mall of India, Luxeva, The Lodhi etc, we are happy to expand the family with KOMBAT, a one-of-a kind marketing Industry, dedicated to work with brands in the Wellness Category. KOMBAT aims to provide marketing solutions for the wellness industry with products or services under the categories Nutrition, Mind and Body. In addition to these services, KOMBAT will work closely with brands and individuals to build a community of people to whom wellness matters. International & National brands across the world will get an opportunity to be showcased through our website as we become the global & local reportage platform for All Things Wellness. Neha Lidder, Founder and the Strategist at KOMBAT and Platoon Advisory, says With the success of Platoon Advisory, a marketing consultancy for Luxury & Lifestyle Industry, I am excited to launch its sister concern KOMBAT, a marketing consultancy for wellness brands. Owing to the sedentary lifestyle of people, hectic schedules and work from home scenario, the wellness industry has seen an exponential growth in the year 2020 and hence the need for a platform which is dedicated to cater this industry. Kombat means to take action to reduce or prevent something undesirable and with the launch of KOMBAT we aim at being the Voice of Wellness in the country that offers brands an opportunity to be a category leader in the market. With Kombat I am also looking to build a strong community of people in the Quest of Wellness and be a source of inspiration for people in need through our online platform. The Kombat team employs its expertise and experience to stabilize a robust offline and online presence of the brand in the wellness universe. From choosing social media networks to selecting the right platform to pitch and display, the company specialises in offering a wide range of strategies for promoting the brand. Job Title: Salon Account Developer (44 Fresher Jobs) Organization: Movit Products Limited Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda Report To: Territory Manager Salons About US: Movit Products Limited (MPL) is a leading Quality Cosmetics Manufacturing Company in Africa with operations in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Rwanda, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. Movit Products Limited manufactures healthy beauty hair, skin and nail care products aimed at empowering every person to face life with confidence. Job Summary: The Salon account developer will offer salon sales support services and execute salon market development activities within the designated territory to ensure salon channel development and sales target achievement. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Carry out order generation in salons and hand them over to sales representatives for supply. Carry out market intelligence in assigned territory and report competitor activities. Recruit new salon customers and maintain the existing through customer relationship management. Carry out product demos in salons to create a good understanding of products application of MPL products. Product knowledge sharing with salon customers to ensure there is good understanding of MPL products. Push for consumption of MPL products in salons by emphasising products usage. Develop and Maintain an updated salon customer database for the assigned territory. Ensure product display and visibility in salons. Ensure proper POS material placement in salons. Sensitise salon customers on proper product handling to minimise damages. Participating in product sensitisation and awareness campaigns in salons for MPL products. Ensure listing of full product range in line with products of focus as per MPL customer segmentation. Introduce and list new products in salons. Visit all salons in the designated territory and ensure they are serviced Any other duty as may be assigned by the supervisor. Qualifications, Skills and Experience: The ideal candidate must hold a minimum of O level certificate and a certificate in cosmetology /Hairdressing from a recognised institution. Knowledge of salon management and hair management. A minimum of two (2) years relevant work experience in the field of salons and hair management Ability to work under pressure with minimum or no supervision Good interpersonal, communication and organization skills with a high demonstrable level of integrity How to Apply: All candidates should download the MPL Job Application Form, fill it and send it as an attachment to hr@movit.co.ug (Not more than 1MBs). Please quote the name of the job title in the subject line. Deadline: 12th October 2020 Note: While we thank all applicants for their interest in working with Movit Products Limited, Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline Its been a very interesting journey, Trump said in the video. I learned a lot about COVID. I learned it by really going to school. This is the real school. This isnt the lets read the books school. And I get it, and I understand it. And its a very interesting thing. A Co Armagh school has paid tribute to an outstanding former student who died tragically in England at the weekend. Jeni Larmour (18) was discovered unconscious at around 6am on Saturday morning at her halls of residence in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. An 18-year-old man was arrested and later released on police bail while investigations into the student's death continue. A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: At 6.06am on Saturday police received a report via the ambulance service of an unresponsive woman at an address on Richardson Road in Newcastle. Emergency services attended where sadly the woman aged 18 was pronounced dead at the scene. Enquiries into the circumstances around her death are ongoing. Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers at this time. The investigation is at an early stage but it is not believed to be a Covid-19 related death. Originally from Newtownhamilton, the teenager was just weeks into her first year studying architecture and urban planning at Newcastle University. Jeni, who had only moved to Newcastle in August, was a past pupil of Armagh Royal School and was appointed Deputy Head Girl in her final year. Paying tribute, headmaster Graham Montgomery said Jeni had been a model pupil and was very highly regarded within the school community. It was Jenis ambition to attend the Royal School and she wasted none of the opportunities offered to her here. Jeni threw herself enthusiastically into school life, Mr Montgomery said. She was part of the highly successful Combined Cadet Force mil skills team and she worked closely with younger cadets to encourage them to develop their skills. Her capacity for encouraging others and showing leadership were evident when she was chosen for the important role of Student Leader at the Gordonstoun International Summer School in the summer of 2019. She was a highly valued member of the Chamber Choir and was blessed with a beautiful singing voice. She combined that beautiful voice and a brilliant sense of comic timing when she masterfully played the role of Madame de la Grande Bouche in the school production of Walt Disneys Beauty and the Beast. In October 2019 Jeni was part of the schools signature charity project, the ASHA team which spent 10 days in the Trilok Puri slum in New Delhi. This trip required significant commitment and was the culmination of a year of fundraising activity by Jeni and the other team members. Mr Montgomery added: Jeni was a spirited and independently minded girl with clear views which she was happy to articulate in a respectful manner and she was possessed of a well-developed sense of justice. Through her work on the school council she was instrumental in promoting plans for the greening of the school site through tree planting. We have no doubt, that given her academic ability and personality, Jeni had a bright future ahead of her and we are saddened that has been so suddenly cut short. We extend to her many friends, her family, brother and parents our sincerest sympathy at this tragic time and assure them of our prayers and practical support. A spokesperson for Newcastle University added: We are shocked and saddened to learn of the death of one of our students and our welfare teams are offering support to those affected. The Crown Princess Mette Marit, 47, met with author Geir Gulliksen in Oslo The Norwegian royal looked beautiful in a dress with bird motif and a blazer Seemed delighted to sit down with author, playwright and poet at Oslo library The Crown Princess of Norway put on a stylish display as she sat down to speak with one of her country's most beloved authors. Princess Mette Marit, 47, travelled to Oslo's main library, the Deichman Bjorvika, for a sit-down conversation with Geir Gulliksen 56. ADVERTISEMENT The royal, who donned a chic patterned dress complete with bird motif, looked delighted to be speaking to the author, who is known for his books, poetry, plays, and children's literature. She was accompanied by her husband, Crown Prince Haakon, also 47, with whom she shares two children - Princess Ingrid, 16, and Prince Sverre, 14. Princess Mette Marit, 47, travelled to Oslo's main library Princess Mette Marit, 47, travelled to Oslo's main library with Crown Prince Haakon, also 47, , for a sit-down conversation with author Geir Gulliksen, 56 with Crown Prince Haakon, also 47, , for a sit-down conversation with author Geir Gulliksen, 56 The royal, who donned a stylish patterned dress, looked delighted to be speaking with Geir, who is known for his books, poetry, plays, and children's literature Mette-Marit donned a protective face mask as she arrived at the library. but removed it when she began her socially distanced talk with Geir. The royal, who wore her blonde hair loose, added layering to her outfit in the form of a smart black blazer, and completed her ensemble with a pair of nude-coloured heels. Click here to resize this module As she read from the author's book, the royal was seen putting on a pair of chic transparent glasses. It was a relaxed evening for the royals, who had a fright in late September when King Harald was admitted in hospital breathing difficulties. Mette-Marit cut a stylish figure in a black dress and blazer, which she paired with nude-coloured heels The royal looked delighted to be meeting the successful author, playwright and poet tonight King Harald, 83, tested negative for Covid-19, the palace later announced in a statement. Queen Sonja, also 83, wasted no time in visiting her husband and was seen driving herself out of the hospital car park this morning, accompanied by a friend. In the wake of his father's condition, Crown Prince Haakon has been stepping in and taken over his father's duties, including a scheduled meeting with the Norwegian government, the palace announced. King Harald who ascended to the throne after the death of his father King Olav on January 17 1991, was also admitted to hospital earlier this year and underwent two weeks sick leave. Mette-Marit could be seen putting on a pair of transparent glasses she she spoke during the talk tonight The royal's blonde locks were styled to perfection in a wavy bob - and she kept her makeup to a minimum Speaking at the time Crown Prince Haakon, said it was a difficult period for the family and his father was recovering from dizziness but no serious illness was found. ADVERTISEMENT Crown Prince Haakon has stepped in for his father on several previous occasions including, when he became ill in April 2018 with congestion and pain in one foot. King Harald who is the country's first native-born king since the 14th century, won the nation's hearts when he married a commoner and led the mourning in 2011 for the victims of mass killer Anders Behring Breivik. He was also praised globally for a 2016 speech showing support for gay rights, saying: 'Norwegians are girls who love girls, boys who love boys, and girls and boys who love each other.' New Zealand's Fonterra to sell its dairy farms in China for US$368 million New Zealand-based Fonterra said it agreed to selling its farms in China for NZD 555 million (~US$367.97 million; NZD 1 = US$0.66) to focus on the New Zealand market and lower its debt, Reuters reported. In 2019, Fonterra announced that it will stop its overseas expansion plans after being criticised by its cooperative, which has 10,000 New Zealand farmers, for its China market presence and its value-added consumer products that were negatively affecting its profits. Miles Hurrel, chief executive officer for Fonterra said they have been reviewing their business for the past 18 months to ensure their assets and investments meet the cooperatives' needs, adding that the sale of their farms in China will ensure the company's focus on the domestic market. The company also said the sale will help Fonterra better prioritse its foodservice, consumer and ingredients business efforts in China, which is its biggest market. Two Chinese companies have purchased the farms. Youran Dairy Group paid NZD 513 million (~US$341 million) for two farming-hubs located in Ying and Yutian, while Beijing Sanyuan Venture Capital will acquire an 85% stake in Fonterra's Hangu farm. Fonterra said the cash proceeds from the sales will be used to pay down its debt, which it had reduced by NZD 1 billion (~US$664.8 million) as of September this year. - Reuters SINGAPORE Investors should look at Asia instead of the U.S. when it comes to stocks and bonds, an investment strategist told CNBC this week. "Given the election risk in U.S. and more expensive valuations, I think the Asian markets look more interesting (there is) strong economic recovery, strong earnings and much cheaper valuations compared to the U.S. equity market," said Suresh Tantia of Swiss investment bank Credit Suisse. Economic data from China has been "quite encouraging," and the coronavirus pandemic is largely under control in other North Asian markets such as South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong, he said. "That has allowed the economic recovery to continue," he told CNBC's "Capital Connection" on Thursday. ?? La ministra Pilar Mazzetti brinda su mensaje por el Dia de la Medicina Peruana y el 85 Aniversario del Ministerio de Salud. En vivo: https://t.co/q77tWd81Xe pic.twitter.com/UMSDtktsIO But when it comes to the region of Australia hit hardest by the pandemic, Victoria is the standout. The second wave of COVID-19 cases, particularly in Melbourne, has knocked the stuffing out of the state's economy as well as dealing a sizeable blow to the nation's financial wellbeing. There has been no shortage of people and organisations lining up to put a case for more generous support. Tourism, higher education, hospitality, retail and the arts are just the most obvious sectors that have taken an enormous financial hit. Most federal budgets are an exercise in keeping a tight rein on spending while splashing out on a few pet projects. No treasurer wants to be seen as a spendthrift. On Tuesday, that approach is going to be turned on its head. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has made no secret of his willingness to dig deep into federal coffers to revive the economy from its COVID-induced recession. Mr Frydenberg believes the Victorian lockdowns have cost the nation $14 billion in the last quarter. While other states are beginning to see lost jobs return, Victoria remains in a lockdown that prevents many businesses from opening. The Treasury estimates that, come December, there will be more Victorians receiving JobKeeper than recipients in all other states combined. Victorian business groups and unions have put the case to Mr Frydenberg to use the budget to extend JobKeeper for Victorian workers, and The Age supports their calls. Business groups have also put tax breaks, "shovel-ready" infrastructure projects and deferral of the rise in the superannuation guarantee on their wish lists. At the weekend, the Treasurer assured Victorians that they would be singled out for economic aid, though he hinted it would be targeted at infrastructure ahead of an extension of JobKeeper. It is true, as the federal government reminds us, that Victoria's plight is largely due to failures in the state governments management of the hotel quarantine system, and it is reasonable that Spring Street carry a considerable amount of the financial heavy lifting in its own budget later this year. By Monday just over $1 billion had been put on the table by the Commonwealth for Victorian transport projects, mostly in regional areas. The Age welcomes the extra funding but is confounded by the $2.7 billion handed to NSW, which has fared much better during the pandemic but on pre-budget figures appears to have received more than double what is on offer to Victoria. This may be a premature criticism, and we await the budget's final outcome. MOSCOW Ruzanna Avagyana, a 53-year-old social worker from the ethnic Armenian enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh, was taking stock Monday of the regions rapidly escalating military conflict with Azerbaijan from inside her basement. The fighting, the worst in Nagorno-Karabakh since a vicious ethnic war erupted in the region in the early 1990s, began a week ago and drove Ms. Avagyana underground. She counted a half-dozen or so explosions in each of the first days she hid out in the basement, more on Sunday and so many on Monday she could hardly keep track. Then the apartment building on top of her took a direct hit. People are afraid, Ms. Avagyana said in a telephone interview. I heard whistling this way and that, she said, recalling the artillery strikes on her city, Stepanakert, earlier in the day. I couldnt understand where they were falling. And then I heard a boom. TSX Venture Exchange Symbol: NCX VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Northisle Copper and Gold Inc. (TSXV: NCX) ("Northisle" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Board of Directors has appointed Sam Lee as President and Chief Executive Officer of Northisle, effective October 5, 2020. John McClintock has resigned as President and CEO and will continue with the Company as Vice President, Exploration. Over the past 20 years Mr. Lee has advised on some of the most prominent M&A, equity, and debt transactions in the international and Canadian global mining industry totalling over $100 billion in value. During this period, he has worked in major resource markets including Toronto, Sydney, and Vancouver where he led various strategic initiatives for CIBC World Markets. Most recently he was Managing Director and head of CIBC's Vancouver Mining Group. Mr. Lee holds a Bachelor of Applied Science, Faculty of Engineering, from the University of Toronto, was a graduate of the Lassonde Mineral Engineering program, and is a CFA charter holder. He also serves on the board of directors of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and the Vancouver Symphony School of Music. Dale Corman, Chairman of Northisle comments: "I am delighted to welcome Sam to Northisle at this pivotal juncture in the Company's strategic plan. Sam's proven success and extensive experience in the global resource industry and capital markets makes him exceptionally qualified to lead us through the next phase of our growth. He is recognized as being highly principled, tenacious, and a thought leader. I look forward to working with Sam in building the leading, globally sustainable mineral resource company. I would also like to sincerely thank Jack McClintock for his leadership and exceptional work on modeling and demonstrating the enormous exploration potential of the North Island Project over the past nine years. With a positive preliminary metallurgical test result on Red Dog released last Friday (see press release dated October 2, 2020) we have completed our technical work and are now in a position to update the Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") to reflect the upside potential related to the expected higher gold and copper recovery rates, inclusion of silver and rhenium metal recovery at Red Dog and Hushamu deposits as well as the higher metal prices." Sam Lee comments: "I am pleased to have this opportunity to help grow Northisle into a leading mineral resource company whose aim is to benefit all stakeholders and to work closely with its community partners in achieving common goals. When looking at sustainable development opportunities globally, one rarely comes across the trifecta of asset characteristics that are present at Northisle. Specifically, the project has a large defined resource base, an attractive PEA with tangible upside potential, and is located near a historical mining community with exceptional access to clean power, skilled labour, and existing infrastructure. I feel privileged to be working with Dale who successfully developed and then sold Penasquito to Glamis (now Newmont) for $1.2 billion, and Jack who received recognition as PDAC Prospector of the Year for the discovery of the Spence Deposit now owned by BHP. I look forward to working with both in realizing our collective vision." Jack McClintock comments: "I welcome Sam to the team and look forward to accelerating our exploration program on our highly prospective land package. I am proud of what we have accomplished successfully progressing the project through to PEA optimization and identifying significant upside potential. In addition to the two known deposits there are numerous additional porphyry copper gold targets on the property including the North Red Dog Extension, the NW Expo 1.5 km long induced polarization anomaly and the 3.5km by 1.5km high-level lithocap currently under option to Freeport McMoRan." The Company has approved the granting of stock options to Mr. Lee for the purchase of 4,000,000 common shares of the Company. The options will vest immediately. These options have a five-year term and allow the holder to purchase one common share of the company for $0.12 a share until October 5, 2025. ABOUT NORTHISLE COPPER AND GOLD INC. NorthIsle Copper and Gold Inc. is a Vancouver based junior resource company committed to the development of the North Island Project on Northern Vancouver Island. The North Island Project is a 38,000 hectare block of mineral titles 100% owned by NorthIsle stretching northwest from the now closed Island Copper Mine of BHP Billiton, which is located 10 km south of Port Hardy. The 100%-owned North Island Project consists of the Hushamu and nearby Red Dog deposits, with Mineral Resources summarized in the below table. Table 3: North Island Project Resources as at December 31, 2018 Tonnes, '000 Grade Contained Metal Cu, % Au, g/t Mo, % Re, ppm Cu Eq, % Cu, B lb Au, Moz Mo, M lb Re, Kg x 1000 Cu eq, B lb Au eq, Moz Red Dog Indicated 36,568 0.27 0.38 0.005 0.52 0.22 0.45 4.0 0.42 0.99 Inferred 1,774 0.20 0.30 0.003 0.39 0.01 0.02 0.1 0.02 0.04 Hushamu Indicated 305,180 0.24 0.28 0.008 0.54 0.43 1.62 2.75 53.8 165 2.92 6.97 Inferred 189,640 0.19 0.24 0.007 0.35 0.36 0.79 1.46 29.3 66 1.49 3.56 Total Indicated 341,743 0.24 0.29 0.008 0.48 0.44 1.83 3.2 57.8 165 3.34 7.96 Inferred 190,788 0.19 0.24 0.007 0.35 0.36 0.80 1.48 29.4 66 1.51 3.60 Mineral Resource estimates follow the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") definitions standards for Mineral Resources and Reserves and have been completed in accordance with the Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects as defined by National Instrument 43-101. The NI 43-101 reports co-authored by P Burt PGeo and B Game PGeo documenting the resource estimate available on the company's website and filed on SEDAR. Reported tonnage and grade figures have been rounded from raw estimates to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimate. Minor variations may occur during the addition of rounded numbers. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Copper and gold equivalent calculated using US$3.10/lb Cu, US$1300/oz Au and US$9.00/lb Mo and is not adjusted for mining and metallurgical recoveries as these remain uncertain. The formula used is as follows: CuEQ = (Cu% x 22.0462 x 3.10) + (Au g/t x 1300.00/ 31.1035) + (Mo% x 22.0462 x 9.00)/22.046x3.1. AuEQ =(Cu% x 22.0462 x 3.10) + (Au g/t x 1300.00/ 31.1035) + (Mo% x 22.0462 x 9.00)/(1300/31.1035) . Rhenium values have not been used in the cut-off grade or Cu or gold Equivalent calculations. In September 2017, Northisle published the results of a PEA which demonstrated the potential technical and economic viability of the project constructed as an open-pit mine, with a concentrator processing nominally 75,000 tonnes/day (27Mtpa) with the results summarized in the below table. This PEA is expected to be updated to reflect the results from the metallurgical tests described in the sections above. LIFE OF MINE PHYSICALS Table 4: North Island Project PEA Summary Mine life, years 22 years Strip ratio, w:o 0.72 Throughput 27.4Mtpa Mineralization inventory 600Mt Copper grade 0.18% Gold grade 0.24g/t Molybdenum grade 0.01% Pyrite grade 9% LOM production Copper 1.9B lb Gold 1.8Moz Molybdenum 55M lb Pyrite 17B lb Copper equivalent, M lb pa 3.1B lb Gold equivalent, koz 7.4Moz AVERAGE ANNUAL PRODUCTION Copper, M lb 82M lb Gold, koz 79koz Molybdenum, M lb 3M lb Pyrite, kt 0.64Kt Copper equivalent, M lb 141M lb Gold equivalent, koz AVERAGE ANNUAL PRODUCTION COSTS 335koz Copper C1 Cash Costs net of by-products, US$/lb $0.88/lb Copper AISC net of by-products, US$/lb Copper equivalent AISC, US$/lb Cu eq $2.00/lb Gold equivalent AISC, US$/oz Au eq $840/oz ECONOMICS $1.22/lb After-tax NPV5%, US$m $757m After-tax NPV8%, US$m $413m After-tax IRR, % 14% The commodity prices used are as follows: US$ 3.10/lb Cu, US$ 1,300/oz Au, US$ 9.00/lb Mo, US$ 9/t Py with a CAD/USD of 0.75. For more information, please consult the 2017 PEA available on SEDAR under the Company's profile or on Northisle's website. John McClintock, P. Eng is the Qualified Person who reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure in this news release. On behalf of Northisle Copper and Gold Inc. Sam Lee President and CEO 604-638-2515 www.northisle.ca Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. This news release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon the reasonable beliefs of Northisle and its management as of the date of this news release; however, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based upon factors that may change and assumptions that may prove, with the passage of time, to be incorrect as a result of exploration and other risk factors associated with mineral exploration and development that are beyond the control of Northisle. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon such statements. If factors materially change or assumptions are materially incorrect, the actual results, performance or achievements of Northisle may be materially different from any future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Northisle does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. SOURCE NorthIsle Copper and Gold Inc. Related Links https://www.northisle.ca/ Since Joe Biden captured the Democratic nomination, he has maintained a remarkably steady lead over Donald Trump. Biden has never trailed Trump and, since the middle of June, his lead has never been less than 6.6 points in the FiveThirtyEight average of polls, and he has rarely fallen below 50%. It is the most consistent lead in the history of presidential polling. Yet Democrats and anti-Trumpers of all stripes are in a state of depressed panic, almost unable to entertain daydreams of victory in our political Land of Oz. That is totally understandable, and I feel the same way much of the time. The polls are no comfort. Concerns and predictions that Trump will not leave office peacefully or willingly are now rampant and reasonable even as the president fights coronavirus. Radical optimism in Biden's ability to win Entering the fourth quarter in a cloud of gloom, however, is a lousy way to win a game. So, to boost morale, let me spin out a radically optimistic scenario that is consistent with the polls, the handicappers picks, and history and actually more likely than the "Doomsday Scenarios." Bidens national lead in the 538 average, as of Sep. 24, was 50.3% to 43%. More important, since the spring, he has never trailed in the average of polls in the swing states of Arizona, Colorado, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Ohio, and Texas look like true toss-ups right now. Now, suppose that sometime after all the polls have closed on Election Day, sometime after midnight, the returns from solid blue and red states came in as expected. Most of the votes have been counted in the eight never trailed states listed above (remember, most states count mail-in and absentee ballots before election day), the results are consistent with exit polls and other data, and the networks call them for Biden. Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden on Sept. 27, 2020, in Wilmington, Delaware. At that point Biden would have 290 electoral votes, 20 more than needed to win. Now suppose that Biden also has clear leads in two of the toss-up states, say Iowa and North Carolina. Bidens electoral vote would go up to 311 , a margin that could withstand hypothetical reversals in two or even three states. Story continues Imagine that by this late hour, Republican Senate candidates have conceded in Maine, Colorado, North Carolina, Arizona and Iowa. Democrats will have secured the Senate despite losing Doug Jones Alabama seat. The Democrats also will have slightly expanded their House majority. Presidential debate: Biden can beat (and infuriate) Trump by being the adult on the presidential debate stage Around 2 a.m. on Nov. 4, Biden declares victory despite Trumps steady stream of incendiary tweets claiming fraud, sedition and treason. Mitch McConnell and Kevin McCarthy, already in post-car crash triage mode, issue a joint statement urging Trump to concede given the results in hand. The GOP has effectively conceded for Trump. George W. Bush and other Republicans send congratulations to Biden along with heads of state around the world. Trumps bluff has been called. There is no appetite in the GOP to prolong the agony. The process of certifying the electoral votes proceeds in the normal manner, despite the lack of a concession from the lame duck president. Biden and Harris are inaugurated in an orderly manner. What could happen under Biden's presidency With control of the White House, Senate and House, the Democrats enact major economic stimulus legislation and extraordinary COVID-19 spending in Bidens first week. By the Fourth of July recess, Biden has also shepherded through a historic government reform bill that enlarges the Supreme Court to 13, puts 15-year term limits on the Justices, adds 45 seats to the House of Representatives, gives statehood to D.C. and Puerto Rico, and abolishes the Electoral College. The disproportionate power of rural (white) voters that has ruled American history will be diminished, the winner of the popular vote will always be elected president and the Supreme Court will be less susceptible to extended one-party dominance. By the fall of 2021, COVID-19 vaccines have been deployed widely enough so that the school year begins in nearly routine fashion and the working world continues to normalize. With marginal help from some dissident Republicans, Democrats pass significant expansion and protection of Obamacare, criminal justice reform and start reversing Trumps climate change setbacks. Discouraged by party infighting and the loss of power, GOP Senators from the blue or purple states of North Carolina, Wisconsin, Ohio, and Pennsylvania resign. With the new seats from D.C. and Puerto Rico, Democratic control of the Senate is all but guaranteed for the next two or three cycles. The added seats assure the Democrats will have a majority in the House for several more years at least. 2020 elections: First, stanch the Trump bleeding. Whatever progressives think of Biden, we can't sit out 2020. More importantly, the demography of America will be more accurately represented than ever before. All the election results in this daydream are what todays polls would predict. The legislation is all realistic, even probable, except, perhaps, for D.C. and Puerto Rico statehood. The whole picture is more likely than the "Doomsday Scenario" of Trump calling in the tanks to protect him in the White House. So, as we enter the final phase, Democrats and Trumps other opponents should be motivated by hope as much as fear motivated to vote, volunteer, donate, argue and cajole. In the words of Dorothy Gale, The dreams that you dare to dream really do come true. With effort. Dick Meyer is the author of Why We Hate Us: American Discontent in the New Millennium. 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. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden winning: the good things that could happen if he wins So far, the year 2020 has been unusual to say the least. That 2020 will welcome 13 full moons in total makes it even stranger. And October is the lucky month that lays claim to two of these lunar eventsthe second full moon in a month is called a blue moon. In another spooky cosmic coincidence, this blue moon will cast its ethereal glow into the night sky on Halloween. But this full moon will not actually appear blue as the name suggests. A full moon rises beyond The Shard in central London on Oct. 1, 2020. (JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images) Blue moons are rare, occurring approximately once every 2.5 to 3 years, according to the Farmers Almanac, hence the well-known phrase once in a blue moon. The full moon on Oct. 1 was what is called a Harvest Moon, a name given to the one closest to the fall equinox, the official transition of summer into fall. It was so named by European ancestors, because farmers sometimes needed to toil late into the night by the Moons light during the harvest season. In China and Vietnam, and some other Asian countries, the full Harvest Moon corresponds with the traditional Mid-Autumn Festivalor Moon Festival. This years Harvest Moon made its appearance for three days, according to NASA, and was visible in the sky opposite the Sun from our vantage point on Earth. Usually, Harvest Moons occur in September, making this October an exception to the rule. The blue moon of July 31, 2015, taken in Port Coquitlam in British Columbia, Canada (Ursus sapien/CC BY-SA 4.0) This years blue moon is known as a Hunters Moon, which denotes the one following the Harvest Moon, according to the Farmers Almanac. It was under this moons light that hunters traditionally caught their prey in preparation for winter. A full moon happening on Halloween like this one is rare, occurring roughly once every 19 years. It will rise at 10:49 a.m. EST, which will also allow it to become the first full moon to fall on Halloween across all timezones since 1944. It will be best viewed in the hours of darkness, of course, but will illuminate the nights sky brightly and be easily visible without the need for binoculars. The year 2020 has pulled a few unexpected tricks on the people of the world so far. But whether or not trick-or-treaters stay indoors due to restrictions or venture out in search of sweets, the lunar show in the sky will still offer a spooky spectacle for all. We would love to hear your stories! You can share them with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.nyc HubHaus, a venture-backed startup in the burgeoning new field of dorms for grownups, has imploded, stranding hundreds of renters and homeowners, mainly in the Bay Area. The 4-year-old Los Altos company, which had raised $13.4 million, is undergoing a closure and liquidation process, commencing Sept. 23, 2020, it wrote in emails to homeowners and tenants. Its laid off all employees, the letter said, blaming the coronavirus pandemics severe impact on housing. Several renters and landlords provided copies of the emails to The Chronicle. The company is unable to pay October rent, the emails said, suggesting that landlords use security deposits to cover it. The emails said that tenants leases were being transferred to the homeowners. HubHaus, like several other co-living startups, corporatized the long-standing tradition of group houses. It leased large houses, furnished the common areas, and then sublet bedrooms to young professionals in the Bay Area, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. It had several hundred homes, the majority in the Bay Area. Its pitch to homeowners was that it was a trusted property manager providing reliable income. To tenants, it promoted the idea of affordable living space where they could find friends, handle repairs and problems via its online tools, and have amenities such as a cleaning service and reliable Wi-Fi. It seemed like a cool way to meet new people, said Zack Tobin, who moved into a Redwood City HubHaus two years ago and then transferred to one in San Jose called Magellan Haus. That can be a little challenging in the Bay Area sometime because people are really into their careers here. Many landlords who had rented their homes to HubHaus said in interviews and on a Facebook group that it had already slashed the rent it was paying them in recent months, leaving them tens of thousands of dollars in the hole. Several said they were stunned to discover that it had also stopped paying utilities months ago. (Because of the pandemic, utility companies are not cutting off service for nonpayment.) Peter DaSilva / Special to The Chronicle Meanwhile, tenants were taken aback, although some had noticed recent changes, such as the end of housecleaning services even though they were still paying for them and increasingly slow responses to maintenance issues. I dont know where to go from here, who to talk to, how this could affect my credit score, said Chang Lee, who pays $1,130 for a room in the Loge Haus in San Jose. It seems as if all tenants and homeowners have been left to fend for themselves. Its been one of the most nightmarish experiences Ive had, said Stephen Wolfe, who was paying $1,580 a month for a large room in a Victorian-style home in the Oakland hills. He doesnt know whether the homes owners, who live in Australia, will allow him and his four housemates to continue renting. HubHaus tenants said they signed yearlong leases, which started at varying times, and paid security deposits of about one months rent. The emails said the deposits will be used for October rent. If there is any excess, it said the homeowners would give them credit for it. The emails to tenants and lawyers said HubHaus is now run by Diablo Management Group, whose website says it helps troubled corporations ... increase the value of (their) assets. Diablo, as well as several former HubHaus board members and investors, did not reply to requests for comments. Shruti Merchant, who co-founded HubHaus and was CEO until March, declined to comment. Rachel Borego, who pays about $1,400 for a room in a San Francisco HubHaus, said she discovered her landlord has been receiving only a quarter of the rent. As a pet owner, she has trouble finding affordable housing, but only two of the houses five bedrooms are currently occupied, so my last roommate and I have to find at least two new people soon, or else move, as the landlord doesnt want to rent the rooms individually, she said. There is similar dismay among landlords. In November 2019, Oakland resident Darcey OCallaghan leased HubHaus her former residence in Washington, where the company had recently expanded. It now owes her $19,000 in back rent, she said. While COVID amplified the problems, HubHaus failed because of poor management, OCallaghan said. Everything was weird about the interactions. For instance, HubHaus tried to change a signed contract, and it charged her for repairs but didnt perform them, she said. Peter DaSilva / Special to The Chronicle. Tobin, the San Jose HubHaus tenant, said the company seemed to run in panic mode. He started working for it part time in May 2018 to give prospective renters tours of its Bay Area houses, making $40 per tour and $50 if the renter moved in. As an employee, it was really rough, he said. They would routinely pay me less than what Id earned, or pay it late. Id call and theyd be like, Sorry, it wont happen again. Eventually this happened almost every week, he said, so he gave up the job after a year. There were similar financial problems with rent. Tobin said that he and other tenants who had auto-pay set up saw double rent taken from their accounts in January. That put a lot of people in a spot; they couldnt get gas or groceries, he said. HubHaus apologized and refunded the money. HubHaus sent OCallaghan and other landlords a letter in late March saying it needed to defer rents based on hardship due to the coronavirus .... (because) the livelihoods of some rent-paying tenants have been significantly impacted. It referred to legislation to safeguard housing during the pandemic. Several landlords provided copies of the letter. But she as well as other landlords interviewed heard from her tenants that they were still paying their full rent to HubHaus. The emergency legislation was put in place to protect renters who lost their jobs not to save companies that are suffering from bad management, she said. Ryan Hernandez rented his familys Oakland home to HubHaus when they moved to Montreal two years ago. They started underpaying the rent back in May, he said. Its been touch and go since then; they owe a bit over $15,000 in rent. On top of that, he soon discovered thousands of dollars in unpaid utilities that he could be liable for. In addition, the company stopped having the house cleaned months ago. He wants to ensure the tenants arent left high and dry, although at the same time hes racking up losses on the house. HubHaus asked landlords last month to sign an agreement that they would assume the subtenants leases. It included numerous clauses that they would not pursue HubHaus for any damages. I read it, and my jaw dropped, Hernandez said. Theyre asking us to sign off on a complete release of all past and future responsibility. He will not sign it, and said other landlords hes talked to agreed. Air Quality Tracker Check levels down to the neighborhood Ratings for the Bay Area and California, updated every 10 minutes Peter DaSilva / Peter DaSilva Jim Lucey, a tenants attorney at Tobener Ravenscroft in San Francisco, said that neither tenants nor landlords are likely to recover losses. The property owners are in a no-win situation, he said. Their claims would be based on contract law, which wont be covered by insurance. As for tenants, HubHaus emails said they are not being evicted. If theyre not being kicked out, but turned over to the owner, I dont think theres an actionable claim to be made, he said. Lucey pursued HubHaus a year ago on behalf of tenants in a San Francisco house whom it evicted with little notice or communication. The companys commercial insurance policy covered a settlement, he said. Clara Arroyave, who founded and was CEO of a smaller co-living startup in Boston called PlaceMe, shed some light on what may have happened during the pandemic. Similar to everyone else (who runs corporate group homes), in the middle of March, we saw 40% of our revenue disappear in a matter of five days, she said, as renters who were now working from home left the city. The drain continued. By the middle of June 60% of people had left, which was not enough for us to cover obligations, she said. Arroyaves company returned some properties to landlords and turned others over to a management firm to run. Bungalow, a San Francisco co-living startup with $118 million in backing and properties in the Bay Area, San Francisco, New York and Washington, is also struggling, as the Information first reported. We have seen substantial declines in the residential real estate market in our major cities, Bungalow CEO and co-founder Andrew Collins said in an email. Rents are down between 15% and 25%. ... We are asking a majority of homeowners to reformat our leases in a way that enables us to get through these difficult times together and provides additional upside for landlords once the markets rebound. Still, Collins implied that Bungalow will continue, saying it is in a meaningfully better position than HubHaus today. OCallaghan, the Oakland owner of the Washington home, plans to file in small claims court, where the damage limit is $10,000, half what shes owed. I honestly dont think Ill see a penny, but I really wanted some sort of legal record of what they did, she said. It needs to be addressed more broadly when a company goes under that has millions in venture backing from millionaires and billionaires. I dont even have a job right now. Carolyn Said is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: csaid@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @csaid The Bihar assembly polls will be held in three phases on 28 October, 3 November, and 7 November, and the counting of votes will take place on 10 November New Delhi: The Congress is likely to finalise some of its candidates for the Bihar Assembly poll on Monday when the party's central election committee may meet virtually. The Congress Screening Committee on Bihar met in Delhi on Sunday and is learnt to have discussed the names of probable candidates for the upcoming elections in the state. The meeting of the screening panel, headed by Avinash Pande, was attended by Congress in-charge for Bihar affairs Shakti Sinh Gohil, Bihar Congress chief Madan Mohan Jha and CLP leader Sadanand Singh among others. The central election committee (CEC) headed by party chief Sonia Gandhi is likely to meet on Monday to finalise some of the candidates that the screening panel will recommend. On Saturday, the Opposition Grand Alliance in Bihar announced a seat-sharing formula for the upcoming Assembly polls under which the Congress will contest 70 of a total 243 seats. The Bihar Assembly polls will be held in three phases on 28 October, 3 November, and 7 November, and the counting of votes will take place on 10 November. The nomination process for the first phase, under which 71 of the total 243 seats will go to polls, began from 1 October and will end on 8 October. NSW Police have charged two people and issued eight infringement notices for breaches of the public health order over the long weekend. Eastern beaches police were called to Malabar Headland in the early hours of Sunday morning following complaints of a party. Officers arrived and found more than 80 people at the event. NSW Police have charged two people and issued eight infringement notices. Credit:Edwina Pickles The crowd dispersed but police fined the organiser, a 31-year-old man, for failing to comply with health guidelines. Two venues at Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Park, were issued $5000 PINs on Sunday night for failing to produce COVID-19 safety plans. Another two licensed venues in northern NSW, one in Lismore and one in East Ballina, were issued $5000 PINS for violating coronavirus guidelines. In the states south, three fines were issued around the Victorian border. Two men, aged 41 and 52, were stopped by police and issued $1000 fines on the Monaro Highway about 11am on Saturday after evading a NSW checkpoint. They had been warned the previous day for attempting to enter NSW from Victoria without a valid permit, and directed to head back to Victoria.They were later charged about 9.15pm on Saturday when they tried to enter NSW a third time, and will face court at a later date. Another man, 24, was issued a PIN on Saturday morning for violating the conditions of his border permit while travelling in Balranald. NSW Police has reminded NSW residents that anyone who travels to Victoria, including within the border zone "border bubble", requires a valid permit to re-enter NSW. Superintendent Paul Smith said police would continue to enforce the border closure. "We have had several reports of people attempting to travel from South Australia to NSW and vice versa - via the Sturt Highway in Victoria, as this is the most direct route," he said. "Anyone wishing to enter NSW from South Australia will need to do so directly, via an alternative route. If you attempt to travel into NSW via Victoria and do not have a valid permit, you will be turned around at the border checkpoint and refused entry to NSW." China said at a World Trade Organization meeting that restrictions by the United States on Chinese mobile applications TikTok and WeChat are in violation of the body's rules, a trade official said. The Trump administration has ordered download blocks on the two mobile apps and ordered ByteDance, the Chinese owner of TikTok, to sell its operations to a US company, citing national security concerns. However, US judges have questioned the government's case. A representative for China said at the closed-door meeting on Friday that the measures "are clearly inconsistent ... Even as the Centre maintains silence on the startup woes over Google , digital payments firm Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma said the government needs to regulate the search major in the country. Many startup founders including Paytms Sharma have been in discussions over the past week with ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY) to stop Googles autonomous rule over the countrys tech landscape. Launching a scathing attack on Google, Sharma on Monday alleged that Google and Facebook, together take close to 50% of a technology startups investments and almost control its balance sheets, through either advertisement spends or payment commissions, with no alternative left for Indian startups. Googles policies are arbitrary, and deployment of those policies is even more arbitrary. Hence, the definition of these policies which govern Indias technology ecosystem continues to be arbitrary, and there is not even a court we can go to. Google is a ruler of Indias technology businesses, as 95% of customers use Googles Play Store in India," Sharma said. He added that because of the Google and Facebook duopoly, not a significant investment has been made into Digital India, since these technology and social media conglomerates consume most of the startups funding. Paytm was temporarily removed from the Google Play store on 18 September for several hours, after Google claimed that the latter had violated its guidelines around real-money gaming for app developers. India has not made a significant investment in Digital India because theres Google which takes 50% of our money that we raise. So how can you expect technology companies to be sustainable in India. And they are doing it arbitrarily. Googles plan is clear that we are rulers and you will never be able to enter the big league. So stay away or we can kill you!," said Sharma. On Monday, Google said it will be setting up listening sessions" with leading Indian startups" to understand their concerns". It also extended the time, developers have to integrate its Play Billing system into their apps till 31 March, 2022. A senior government official told Mint, on condition of anonymity, that the government will be 'holistically look at the startups concerns over Googles billing policy. The government is looking at the issue holistically. It is not just about what the few big Indian startups have to say. The government will have to see and assess what will help the startup ecosystem," the official said. Sharma said that while startups spend almost 30,000 crore in either advertising or commissions to Google, it takes this money off-shore, almost looting Indias tech ecosystem through what is popularly termed as the Google Tax, by Indian technology developers and tech majors. Companies are also forced to pay and abide by Google, because of lack of alternatives. Google should not create policies that are opposing this countrys laws and growth, and they should abide, and be controlled by this countrys law. So that if there is a commercial dispute, it can be done under the regulation and the laws of this land, and that is what we are seeking," relayed Sharma. In a virtual meeting on Saturday with the ministry of electronics and information technology (MeitY) secretary Ajay Prakash Sawhney, over two dozen startups conveyed apprehensions over Google's increasing dominance and control over Indian internet firms. Last week, Google in a blog post reinforced its Play Store policies, which required Android app-developers to leverage the search majors billing system, for selling digital products and services, charging a 30% commission on every transaction. Our expectation is that the government should take short-mid-and long-term steps in ensuring an Atmanirbhar Bharat, because we cannot build a Digital India through this duopoly. Their dominance is demonstrated, by bringing up a (competitor) app, giving a warning and taking consumer data away from India. We had asked the government to stop Google commissions on Play Store so we got some respite which is good," said Sharma. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics A new report by the Syrian Network for Human Rights has highlighted the rising number of coronavirus cases in the country, as well as the high murder rate in regime areas writes SY 24. The Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) announced that September was Syrias worst month ever, in terms of the coronavirus crisis, as well as the high rate of murder and theft in the areas controlled by the Syrian regime. SNHR stated in its report that the month of September was the worst ever in all parts of Syria when it comes to the coronavirus pandemic, noting that the regimes Ministry of Health documented 4,200 cases overall, of which 35 percent occurred in September, and 200 deaths overall, of which 44 percent occurred in September. The report added that the Early Warning Alert and Response Network (EWARN) announced 992 infections and five deaths in northwest Syria that occurred in September, bringing the total to 1,072 coronavirus cases and six deaths in northwestern Syria, according to EWARN. According to the report, northeastern Syria witnessed a surge of infections and deaths due to the virus, recording 1,618 cases, of which 64 died, according to statistics announced by the Health Authority in the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria. In September, 1,062 cases were documented, including 29 deaths. The report warned of fears of a wider spread of the pandemic throughout Syria with the reopening of schools. It also drew attention to the continued suffering of the displaced throughout the camps due to the deterioration of the humanitarian conditions and the high temperatures that hit the region in early September, which resulted in dozens of cases of heat strokes. SNHR documented an increase in the murder and theft rate in the areas controlled by the Syrian regime, in addition to several suicides by people of various age groups in most areas of Syria. Most of the suicides were due to poor living conditions and extreme poverty. The report stated that the military operations, artillery, and missile strikes by the Syrian regime forces continued in September in the areas along the lines of demarcation with the regime, as well as the adjacent areas in the southern countryside of Idleb. September also witnessed Russian airstrikes on the headquarters and camps of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in the northwestern countryside of Idleb, resulting in civilian casualties. According to SNHR, the indiscriminate and disproportionate bombing operations carried out by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are a clear violation of international humanitarian law and that the haphazard killings they carried out amount to war crimes. The report confirmed that September witnessed several explosions due to vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices in several areas in the eastern and northern countryside of Aleppo, Ras al-Ayn in the countryside of Hassakeh and Tel Abyad in the countryside of Raqqa, which resulted in civilian casualties and damage to populated areas. SNHR reported that Syrian citizens continued to be victims of mines in September, in several governorates, including Aleppo and Idleb. The report drew attention to the Syrian regimes disregard and neglect in dealing with the pandemic since the beginning of the global outbreak. The report mentioned that Syrian society suffers from the mismanagement of the novel coronavirus crisis, regardless of the areas they are in. In September, SNHR documented the killing of 102 civilians, including 15 children and 10 women. Among the victims were three medical personnel. Moreover, 12 victims died due to torture, and no less than one massacre took place. The report also documented at least 162 cases of arbitrary arrest and detention, including two children and six women, at the hands of parties involved in the conflict and the controlling forces in Syria. The largest percentage of arrests were at the hands of the Syrian regime forces in the governorates of Damascus and Daraa. 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. 05.10.2020 LISTEN A station officer, at Nalerigu Police Station in the North East Region, has been apprehended and detained, for allegedly"abetting a criminal offence" of an accused person. The suspect, Inspector Felix Gbekle, formerly with Formed Police Unit (FPU) was said to have secretly and illegally took photographs of a firearm, whilst still an exhibit in police custody and then facilitated registration licence of the firearm for an accused currently undergoing trial for stealing. His action, according to the police was to consolidate the accused defence against the State, so that the accused can win the case and free himself from the criminal charges leveled against him. A cable message by the police, intercepted by The Herald, said, "on 28/09/20 at about 1800hrs, the North East Regional Police Command ordered the arrest of the Nalerigu Station Officer *Inspr. Felix Gbekle* for the offence of aiding and abetting a criminal offence namely illegal possession of firearm." According to the police, "On 03/08/2020, the Nalerigu Police started investigations on one Adam Musah (accused) for the offence of stealing. In the course of the investigations, an unlicensed 12 Bore SB Automatic gun(pump action) with ID No. Huglu GX-812-18A4277, was retrieved from accused's place of abode and he was charged accordingly and put before the Nalerigu District Court for possessing firearm without lawful authority and also for stealing which trial is ongoing." It said, "During the trial, the accused sprung a surprise by pulling out a photocopied document dated 17/08/20 purporting same to be his licence to bear same firearm which he claimed to have obtained from the Tesano Divisional Police. Prosecution therefore asked for time to run checks on the said document." However, it explained that, "The checks from the Tesano Police indicated that indeed, the said licence emanated from the said outfit and it was documented on 17 &18/08/2020 for and on behalf of Accused Adam Musah. Further checks revealed that obtaining the said licence was facilitated by the station officer Inspr. Felix Gbekle for the accused whilst the firearm was still in the custody of the Police to consolidate the accused's defence against the Police/The State so he can free himself from the charges leveled against him." It further added that, "The Inspector took photographs of the firearm whilst it was still an exhibit in police custody, forwarded same to a colleague of his at his former Unit- FPU and pushed for the registration of same for and on behalf of the accused person". "On 28/09/2020, Inspr. Felix Gbekle, was interrogated by the Regional Police Command and he admitted having taken the photographs and forwarded same to his colleague one Amoah, in order to know the name of the weapon. His arrest was subsequently directed and he is presently being detained," the cable message concluded. Source: The Herald Hong Kong: Patrick Hodge named appeal judge Chief Executive Carrie Lam has accepted the Judicial Officers Recommendation Commissions (JORC) advice on the appointment of Lord Patrick Hodge as non-permanent judge of the Court of Final Appeal. Subject to the Legislative Councils endorsement, the Chief Executive will make the appointment under Article 88 of the Basic Law. Mrs Lam said: "I am pleased to accept the JORC's recommendation on the appointment of Lord Hodge as a non-permanent judge from another common law jurisdiction of the Court of Final Appeal. Lord Hodge has been appointed as Deputy President of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom since February 2020. He is a judge of eminent standing and reputation. I am confident that he will be a great asset to the Court of Final Appeal. Mrs Lam added that with Lord Hodges appointment, the panel of non-permanent judges from other common law jurisdictions will consist of 14 eminent judges from the UK, Australia and Canada. The presence of these esteemed non-permanent judges manifests the judicial independence of Hong Kong, helps maintain a high degree of confidence in our legal system, and allows Hong Kong to maintain strong links with other common law jurisdictions. I have every confidence that these distinguished jurists from overseas with profound judicial experience will continue to be a unique strength of our judicial system. Chief Justice Geoffrey Ma welcomed the acceptance by the Chief Executive of the JORCs recommendation on the appointment of Lord Hodge and noted that the Government would seek LegCos endorsement. The recommended appointment of Lord Hodge will increase the number of non-permanent judges from other common law jurisdictions from 13 to 14, providing greater flexibility in dealing with the caseload of the Court of Final Appeal. Article 90 of the Basic Law provides that the Chief Executive shall obtain the endorsement of the Legislative Council on the appointment of judges of the Court of Final Appeal. The Government will seek its endorsement in due course. Lord Patrick Hodge, a citizen of the UK, was born in Scotland in 1953. He was appointed Queens Counsel in 1996. In 2013, he was appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court of the UK. This story has been published on: 2020-10-05. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Agence France-Presse) London, United Kingdom Mon, October 5, 2020 14:05 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4928fff 2 Books Britain,Romania,Italy,crime,Dante-Alighieri,books,Galileo-Galilei,Isaac-Newton Free An international gang of thieves whose haul included rare books by historic greats such as Galileo Galilei, Isaac Newton and Dante Alighieri were jailed on Friday by a British court. The 12 men formed a sophisticated network, and traveled to Britain from their Romanian base to commit the "high value and well-planned burglaries", according to London's Metropolitan Police. Romanian prosecutors said last month they had recovered around 200, centuries-old first-edition books, a text by Italian scholar Petrarch, rare versions of Dante and 80 sketches by Spanish painter Francisco de Goya after they were stolen from a depot near London, in 2017. The thieves often entered properties via the roof using ropes and ladders and also targeted smartphones, laptops and tablet computers, police added. During the rare books raid, the thieves descended 12 meters to the ground after entering via the roof, dodging movement sensors to spend hours rummaging through thousands of works destined for an auction in the United States. They left by the same route with a haul whose total value was estimated at around two million euros ($2.4 million). The Metropolitan Police said the "irreplaceable" works had been "buried underground", posting a picture on its website of a hidden compartment under a house. The court heard that the gang carried out their 12 raids in Britain between December 2016 and April 2019 at various locations including Peterborough, Hertfordshire and Enfield near London, and Sheffield, in northern England. The gang flew members into Britain to carry out the robberies, jetting them out straight away afterwards. "These sentences bring a successful conclusion to a complicated three-year investigation, which identified and convicted a previously unknown Romanian organized crime gang," said Detective Inspector Andy Durham, who led the investigation. The men were sentenced over two days at Kingston Crown Court in southwest London having all been charged with one count of conspiracy to commit burglary and one count of conspiracy to conceal covert, disguise, transfer and remove criminal property. They each received sentences ranging from three years and three months to five years and eight months. The terms of the sale were not disclosed. However, 99designs chief executive Patrick Llewellyn said selling the business to Vistaprint, owned by the $US2 billion NASDAQ-listed conglomerate Cimpress, offered the best path forward for the business. The company, backed by Silicon Valley heavyweight Accel Partners, relocated its headquarters from the US back to Melbourne in 2017 to set the scene for a possible IPO. It recorded revenue of $60 million in 2018 and has been profitable for the last few years. Founded in 2008 by Matt Mickiewicz and Mark Harbottle, 99designs was one of a pioneering crop of Australian startups that put the local technology sector on the map. Melbourne startup 99designs is being acquired by global printing giant Vistaprint, putting an end to the online design marketplace's mooted plans to list on the Australian Securities Exchange. "We just weren't ready to go public on our own in 2020," he said. "We certainly could have raised capital in this market but this allows us to move a lot faster and really focus on the things that we care about." Mr Llewellyn, who joined 99designs in 2009, said the business will be able to grow faster under the new ownership, with plans to hire 30 more staff in Melbourne and launch new offerings aimed at small businesses. "Change always comes with a little bit of of the unknown if you know what I mean there's sort of a little trepidation there but it is ultimately one where we get access to 20 million customers," he said. "We get access to a very complimentary vision around what we want to build together. It's a vote of confidence in the local tech scene the fact that we're going to be aggressively hiring in this market and continuing to build out our capabilities here." Cimpress and Vistaprint founder and chief executive Robert Keane said while there were a lot of freelance sites out there the trust 99designs had built up with designers on its network was a valuable asset. HATHRAS: Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday (October 5) registered an FIR against Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad and almost 400-500 unnamed people under multiple sections of the IPC and Epidemic Diseases Act, for violation of Section 144 CrPC in Hathras. On October 4, Azad visited Hathras and met the family of the 19-year-old who was allegedly gangraped and brutally assaulted by four men at a village in Hathras on September 14. He demanded a time bound inquiry by a retired judge of the Supreme Court into the Hathras incident and also sought security for the family of the victim. Azad said the family members of the victim should be provided with Y-plus security cover as they were feeling 'insecure'. He said an atmosphere of fear and insecurity was being created in the victim's village and that the kin of the woman wanted to leave the place. He said that a CBI inquiry would be time consuming and delay the process of justice. He was initially prevented by police from proceeding to Hathras. He was, however, later allowed to visit the family. The Hathras gang-rape victim, who succumbed to her injuries at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital, was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night. Heavy security arrangements were made in the village during the Bhim Army chief's visit. The cookie settings on this website are set to "allow cookies" to give you the best browsing experience possible. If you continue to use this website without changing your cookie settings or you click "Accept" below then you are consenting to this. Close HEC Paris Dean Peter Todd After being diagnosed with a brain tumor 18 months ago, HEC Paris Dean Peter Todd today (Oct. 5) announced that he would step down from his job to focus more fully on his recovery. A spokesperson for the school said that Todd Peter will be leaving HEC Paris on Oct. 31st and that an interim dean will be appointed shortly. It had been my intention to see this year to its end but I find that I am not able to do so, certainly not at the level that I expect of myself and that you have every right to expect from your Dean, wrote Todd, 58, in an email to his colleagues. While Todd said the tumor was benign, and his prospects for a full recovery is good, he and his wife, Connie, decided it would be best for his health not to carry on his duties as dean. Coping with its ongoing effects while at the same time managing the school through the complexity and stress of the Covid-19 crisis have taken a personal toll that leave me needing, with the support and encouragement of Connie, to focus on my health and well-being, added Todd. I take this decision knowing that the school is actually led, not by a single person, but by a leadership team who manage with purpose and with an exemplary dedication to the school. And knowing too that, for each of you, your deep commitment to the school ensures our success and that of our exceptional students. WE HAVE MOVED HEC PARIS FORWARD Born in Burnaby, Canada, Todd joined HEC Paris in July of 2015 to become the first non-French dean of the school, succeeding Bernard Ramanantsoa after a 20-year-long deanship. He moved to France after a nine-year stint as dean of Desautels Faculty of Management at McGill University in Canada. Todd had already stepped down from the deanship at McGill and was on a year-long sabbatical when he was recruited for the job. He spent his time off with his wife to think about the future. We set ourselves a trajectory of either the West Coast of North America or something in Europe, he told Poets&Quants. Id never thought about HEC because I never thought theyd hire someone from outside of France into what is a sacred French institution. Id heard about a couple of schools in Europe that were more UK-based when someone from HEC called me literally out of the blue one day and said would you have any interest in doing this. It just went from there. Story continues In his message, Todd thanked his colleagues for their work over the past five years. IIt has been an honour, a privilege and a deep learning experience, he wrote. I believe together we have moved HEC Paris forward and know that there is much more to come for this remarkable institution. Its future is in great hands, yours. I realize my departure comes at a complicated time and in what was already planned as a year of transition. HELD ADMINISTRATIVE ROLES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON AND UVAS MCINTIRE SCHOOL Todd began his academic career after earning his Ph.D. in business administration and management from the University of British Columbia in 1988. He joined Queens University as an assistant professor and spent eight years at the school. Todd then joined the University of Houston first as a professor in 1997 before becoming an associate dean for academics two years later. In 2002, he moved to the McIntire School of Commerce at the University of Virginia to be vice dean of the undergraduate schools masters programs. He left after three years to take the deanship at McGill. His full letter follows: Colleagues. As a follow up to the message you received this morning from Jean Paul Vermes I want to say thank you to all of you for allowing me to work beside you over the past five years. It has been an honour, a privilege and a deep learning experience. I believe together we have moved HEC Paris forward and know that there is much more to come for this remarkable institution. Its future is in great hands, yours. I realize my departure comes at a complicated time and in what was already planned as a year of transition. It had been my intention to see this year to its end but I find that I am not able to do so, certainly not at the level that I expect of myself and that you have every right to expect from your Dean. We have lived through much these last five years and I have always tried to be open and transparent with you as we navigated complicated times and despite those complexities made important progress as a school. In the interest of continued transparency, as some of you already know, I was diagnosed about 18 months ago with a brain tumor, which luckily for me is benign and which treatment has brought under control for now. My long term prospects are good. But coping with its ongoing effects while at the same time managing the school through the complexity and stress of the Covid-19 crisis have taken a personal toll that leave me needing, with the support and encouragement of Connie, to focus on my health and well-being. I take this decision knowing that the school is actually led, not by a single person, but by a leadership team who manage with purpose and with an exemplary dedication to the school. And knowing too that, for each of you, your deep commitment to the school ensures our success and that of our exceptional students. I take this decision as well knowing that we are strongly supported by our Board of directors, our International advisory board, the HEC Paris Foundation, the HEC Paris Alumni Association and the Chambre de Commerce, along with all our alumni, donors, corporate and academic partners and friends who collectively bring us strength and propel us forward. And I take my leave confident that for all you have achieved, you are never satisfied and that, as a result, the very best days for HEC Paris are the ones that lie ahead. With my warmest regards and best wishes for the future of HEC Paris. DONT MISS: MEET THE HEC PARIS MBA CLASS OF 2021 or DEANS Q&A: PETER TODD OF HEC PARIS The post HEC Paris Dean Resigns To Focus On Recovery From Brain Tumor appeared first on Poets&Quants. A man from the northern Vietnamese province of Lao Cai who was caught on CCTV hitting a little girl at a kindergarten turned up at the police station after being summoned by officers several times. Police in Lao Cai City, which is the capital of the namesake province, confirmed on Sunday that Bui Van Hung, 32, had arrived at the police station for a working session. Hung claimed he went to Trumpkids Kindergarten at around 4:00 pm on September 30 to pick up his daughter C.T.. He rushed into the classroom after hearing his daughter crying. He then saw a red bite mark on her arm. I am nearsighted so I thought that my child was bleeding," Hung recounted. "I gently slapped on the face of B.A. [who had had a fight with T. over a toy] and told her to apologize." A. started crying but did not say sorry, so the man grabbed her by the hair and continued slapping her, hitting her leg and buttocks until she apologized to his daughter. Following the incident, Hung took T. home before driving his car to Hanoi to visit a sick relative later the same day. After seeing news about his violent actions on social media and news outlets, Hung contacted A.s father via texts and phone calls. He also asked a family member to apologize to A.s family directly. However, A.s father previously said he did not accept the apology and would ask police officers to deal with the case. Police had summoned Hung twice but he did not show up until Sunday. Officers are collecting further statements of relevant individuals and waiting for the results of the victims injury evaluation. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Chennai, Oct 5 : Ruling AIADMK's Coordinator and Deputy Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam on Monday tweeted that all his decisions were in the interest of the people of Tamil Nadu and the party cadres and it would continue to be so. The tweet comes at a time when the AIADMK is expected to announce its Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2021 assembly polls on October 7. A power struggle is on in AIADMK between Panneerselvam and Joint Coordinator and Chief Minister K. Palaniswami and attempts are being made to come out with an amicable solution. In a tweet Panneerselvam said till now all his decisions were taken for the welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu and that of the party cadres. "It will continue to be so," Panneerselvam said. Quoting Bhagavad Gita he added: "Whatever had happened had happened very well. Whatever is happening is also happening very well. Whatever has to happen will happen very well." With his tweet Panneerselvam seems to be referring to his revolt against the then General Secretary V.K. Sasikala by breaking away and securing the party from the hands of her family. His insistence on setting up a steering committee for guiding the party is also for the good of the party, Panneerselvam seems to be stressing. And he talks in riddles as to whatever has to happen will happen well. At the recent meeting of the Executive Committee of the party, the issue of announcing the Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2021 assembly elections was raised. There were heated exchanges between the supporters of Panneerselvam and Palaniswami. Panneerselvam's demand is to set up a steering committee to guide the party as per earlier agreement. All these years Palaniswami was not agreeable for the steering committee and Panneerselvam remained silent. After the party's Executive Committee meeting, Deputy Coordinator K.P. Munusamy told reporters that the party's Chief Ministerial candidate will be announced on October 7 by Panneerselvam and Palaniswami. "There will not be any change in the current set up. The status quo will continue. The party will face the elections with Palaniswami heading the caretaker government while Panneerselvam stays party Coordinator," the senior official, who did not want to be identified, had told IANS. Political analyst Kolahala Srenivaas, wondering the reason for Panneerselvam raking up the steering committee issue, told IANS: "As per my information, a consensus is being reached on setting up a steering committee. Panneerselvam wants representation of all major castes in the committee." -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text The owner of the Uneeda book and record store has signed off with an emotional video message, as he announced the closure of a shop that has traded for more than 50 years. John Coffey, 88, was a familiar sight behind his counter at Oliver Plunkett St for generations of Cork shoppers, but has reluctantly decided to shut the shop. In a video posted on Facebook by his grandson Jason J Cassells, Mr Coffey bid a moving farewell to his customers. I am retiring as I'm afraid the years are on the clock, and I can't continue. I've enjoyed every second behind that counter, he states in the video. There's a tear in my eye. All I can say to you, one and all, every one of you, thank you very, very much from the bottom of my heart. John Coffey, signing off. When he first opened Uneeda in the 1960s, The Beatles were still together and CDs hadn't even been invented. Uneeda has traded in two locations on the famously-long street, occupying No 71 for the past 30 years with its selection of second-hand books and music. A former pupil of South Monastery, Mr Coffey told this newspaper he had left school with no qualifications, and had worked for a time making hessian bags. The arrival of plastic signalled the end of hessian use for agricultural produce, so he decided to open his first book shop on Barrack Street. Coffey, standing at the door of the Oliver Plunkett Street shop last year While he once stated that the secret of his success was a thick neck and durability, a strong bond with his customers many of whom have been have been dropping into Uneeda for decades has also been paramount. My main rule has always been the same, he once revealed. If someone buys something, you have to stand over it. Its second-hand but if a customer brings something back I dont question it. I give them back the money, no argument. He also explained why he had kept working in the shop into his late 80s: I love it. Whats the alternative to what Im doing here? Sitting home watching the gogglebox. Im here, meeting people, talking to people, I love it. As news filtered out about the closing of Uneeda in recent days, many customers have taken to social media to pay tribute to the shop and its much-loved owner. Lubbock, TX, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FirstBank & Trust announced today it will donate $20,000 to Tahoka ISD Elementary School on World Teachers Day. World Teachers Day is dedicated to recognizing teachers for the important work they do to help our children learn, grow and succeed, said Greg Garland, President of FirstBank & Trust. It also serves as a reminder that this is a particularly challenging year for many of our K-12 schools, teachers and students. Through its partnership with the national non-profit organization, AdoptAClassroom.org, the funds are intended for the school to purchase much-needed tools and materials, so they can successfully and safely continue to operate. Whether school is taking place in the classroom or remotely from home, the need for additional school supplies, especially personal protective equipment (PPE) and technology is significant, said Garland Our hope is that these funds will give students access to the resources they need. FirstBank & Trusts mission is to enrich lives in their communities. Earlier this year FirstBank & Trust contributed $100,000 to Lubbock to the Community Foundation of West Texas South Plains COVID-19 Response Fund, the YWCA and Open Door of Lubbock with additional donations in other West Texas communities in support of their response to challenges created by COVID-19. About FirstBank & Trust FirstBank & Trust, a subsidiary of Heartland Financial USA, Inc., is state chartered community bank with more than $1.2 billion in assets, serving Lubbock and its surrounding communities. Through its subsidiary, PrimeWest Mortgage Corporation, the bank also engages in mortgage lending in Lubbock and the South Plains. FirstBank & Trusts strengths are in commercial and industrial lending, as well as residential construction and development lending. The company was founded in 1996 and is based in Lubbock, Texas. Additional information about FirstBank & Trust is available at www.firstbanktexas.com. FirstBank & Trust is a member of the FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. About Heartland Financial USA, Inc. Heartland Financial USA, Inc. is a diversified financial services company with assets of $15 billion. The company provides banking, mortgage, private client, investment and insurance services to individuals and businesses. Heartland currently has 113 banking locations serving 82 communities in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Arizona, Montana, Colorado, Minnesota, Kansas, Missouri, Texas and California. Additional information about Heartland Financial USA, Inc. is available at www.htlf.com . About AdoptAClassroom.org We are a national, award-winning nonprofit that provides the most flexible and accountable funding for K-12 teachers and schools throughout the U.S. Our proprietary, easy-to-use education fundraising platform helps teachers, principals, and administrators give every child the tools they deserve to succeed in school. Since 1998, we have raised $39 million and supported 5.4 million students. As a 501(c)(3) organization, we hold a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a platinum rating of transparency from Guidestar. For more information, or to make a donation, please visit www.adoptaclassroom.org . About FirstBank & Trust About FirstBank & Trust FirstBank & Trust, a subsidiary of Heartland Financial USA, Inc., is state chartered community bank with more than $1.2 billion in assets, serving Lubbock and its surrounding communities. Through its subsidiary, PrimeWest Mortgage Corporation, the bank also engages in mortgage lending in Lubbock and the South Plains. FirstBank & Trusts strengths are in commercial and industrial lending, as well as residential construction and development lending. The company was founded in 1996 and is based in Lubbock, Texas. Additional information about FirstBank & Trust is available at www.firstbanktexas.com. FirstBank & Trust is a member of the FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. About Heartland Financial USA, Inc. Heartland Financial USA, Inc. is a diversified financial services company with assets of $13.2 billion. The company provides banking, mortgage, private client, investment and insurance services to individuals and businesses. Heartland currently has 114 banking locations serving 83 communities in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Arizona, Montana, Colorado, Minnesota, Kansas, Missouri, Texas and California. Additional information about Heartland Financial USA, Inc. is available at www.htlf.com. Contact President Greg Garland greg.garland@firstbanktexas.com 806.788.2801 Scheme of the two-step procedure for accumulating and finally releasing encapsulated drugs locally. (Source: Ozdas et al. Nature Communications 2020, adapted) Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method for concentrating and releasing drugs in the brain with pinpoint accuracy. This could make it possible in the future to deliver psychiatric and cancer drugs and other medications only to those regions of the brain where this is medically desirable. Today, this is practically impossibledrugs traveling through the bloodstream reach the entire brain and body, which in some cases causes side effects. The new method is non-invasive, with precise drug delivery in the brain controlled from outside the head using ultrasound. Mehmet Fatih Yanik, Professor of Neurotechnology, and his team of scientists have published their findings in the journal Nature Communications. In order to prevent a drug from acting on the entire brain and body, the new method involves special drug carriers that wrap the drugs in spherical lipid vesicles attached to gas-containing ultrasound-sensitive microbubbles. These are injected into the bloodstream, which transports them to the brain. Next, the scientists use focused ultrasound waves in a two-stage process. Focused ultrasound is already employed in oncology to destroy cancer tissue at precisely defined points in the body. In the new invention, however, the scientists work with much lower energy levels, which do not damage the tissue. Trapping drugs with sound waves In the first step, the scientists use low energy ultrasound waves to cause the drug carriers to aggregate at the desired site within the brain. "What we're doing is using pulses of ultrasound essentially to create a virtual cage from sound waves around the desired site. As the blood circulates, it flushes the drug carriers through the whole brain. But the ones that enter the cage can't get back out," Yanik explains. In the second step, the researchers use a higher level of ultrasound energy to get the drug carriers to vibrate at this site. Shear forces destroy the lipid membranes around the drugs, releasing the drugs to be absorbed by the nerve tissue present at the site. The researchers have demonstrated the effectiveness of the new method in experiments on rats. First they encapsulated a neuro-inhibitory drug in the drug carriers. Then, using the new technique, they successfully blocked a specific neural network connecting two areas of the brain. The scientists were able to show in the experiments that only this one particular part of the neuronal network was blocked and that the drug did not act on the entire brain. More efficient drug delivery "Because our method aggregates drugs at the site in the brain where their effect is desired, we don't need nearly as high a dose," Yanik says. In their experiments on rats, for instance, the quantity of drug that they used was 1,300 times smaller than the typical dose needed. Other research groups have already tried to use focused ultrasound to enhance delivery of drugs to specific regions of the brain. However, these approaches couldn't trap and concentrate drugs locally, and they instead relied on causing local damage to the blood vessel cells in order to increase the drug transport from the blood to the nerve tissue with potentially long-term detrimental consequences. "In our approach, the physiological barrier between the bloodstream and nervous tissue remains intact," Yanik says. The scientists are currently testing the effectiveness of their method in animal models of mental illness, for example to reduce anxiety, of neurological disorders and to target lethal brain tumors that are surgically inaccessible. Once its effectiveness and advantages have been confirmed in animals will researchers be able to advance application of the method to alleviate suffering in humans. Explore further Improving drug delivery for brain tumor treatment More information: Mehmet S. Ozdas et al, Non-invasive molecularly-specific millimeter-resolution manipulation of brain circuits by ultrasound-mediated aggregation and uncaging of drug carriers, Nature Communications (2020). Journal information: Nature Communications Mehmet S. Ozdas et al, Non-invasive molecularly-specific millimeter-resolution manipulation of brain circuits by ultrasound-mediated aggregation and uncaging of drug carriers,(2020). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18059-7 New Delhi, Oct 5 : Delhi's overall air quality has been in moderate category, but is set to deteriorate further in the coming days, thanks to stubble burning, SAFAR warned on Monday. "A sharp increase in stubble burning fires observed yesterday (Sunday) around Punjab, Haryana, and neighbouring border regions and boundary layer wind direction is favourable for transport... as the ventilation coefficient decreases, stubble burning starts to impact Delhi in the coming days," the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) said. It said there will be a "marginal improvement" in Delhi AQI on Tuesday. However, further AQI will "marginally deteriorate" and stay at the moderate category for the next two days. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi's AQI at 3 p.m. on Monday has been 176. Average PM 2.5 level was 105 microgrammes per cubic metre. Stubble burning causes a smog-like situation in Delhi NCR every year post autumn, creating a health hazard for its residents. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Four Flash Sonics dipping sonar and sonobuoy processing systems from Thales will provide the Polish Navy with the latest-generation anti-submarine warfare capability. Four Flash Sonics dipping sonar and sonobuoy processing systems from Thales will provide the Polish Navy with the latest-generation anti-submarine warfare capability. Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link The FLASH low-frequency wideband sonar enables long-range detection with broad sector coverage and low false-alarm rates in both littoral spaces and the open ocean when used with an active and passive sonobuoy processing system (Picture source: Thales) With its unparalleled threat detection and location performance, the Flash sonar has become a major success story and consolidated Thales's world leadership in airborne anti-submarine warfare sonars. Teams from Leonardo and Thales have worked jointly with local industry partners to meet the requirements of the Polish Navy. The Polish Navy will rely on Thales to equip its helicopters with four Flash Sonics. The Flash system (Folding Light Acoustic System for Helicopters) is currently the leading dipping sonar on the international market and has become the benchmark system for the world's major navies. To maintain control over their maritime space and protect security interests around the world, naval forces need reliable, high-performance systems to operate with optimum effect on missions including anti-submarine warfare, maritime search & rescue, defence of maritime approaches and fleet protection for naval forces on deployment. The Flash is the leading system in the international market for dipping sonars, providing a first-rate level of protection that is recognised by a large number of naval forces, including the US Navy, the UK Royal Navy, the French Navy, the Royal Australian Navy and the navies of the United Arab Emirates, Norway, Sweden, South Korea, the Philippines and now Poland. To date, over 400 Flash systems have been delivered to about a dozen navies around the world. The key benefits of this low-frequency wideband sonar include long-range detection with broad sector coverage and low false alarm rates in open ocean as well as littoral waters. Associated with an active and passive sonobuoy processing system, Flash Sonics provides an unparalleled anti-submarine warfare capability. Initially designed for heavy helicopters such as the Merlin AW101 from Leonardo chosen by the Polish Navy, the system is also available in a compact version equipped with an electric motor for lighter helicopters like the AW159. Thales and Leonardo have worked jointly with local industry partners, including the Polish aerospace and defence equipment manufacturer WZL1 and the Gdansk University of Technology (GUT), to meet the customer's requirements. This cooperation demonstrates the Thales Group's commitment and ability to build and maintain long-term partnerships with local players. GUT and WZL1 will benefit from transfers of technology for sonar maintenance on this programme. Alexis Morel, Vice President, Underwater Systems : "The Flash system has been proven in operational deployments with numerous navies, making it a formidable threat for all types of submarines. It is an important instrument of operational superiority for our client navies in their anti-submarine warfare operations. We are very appreciative of the trust the Polish Navy has placed in us with this new contract in partnership with Leonardo, which further consolidates the Group's world leadership position in anti-submarine warfare systems." PureGym came under fire today after a personal trainer compared his workout to the slave trade in a social media post. Matt Simpson, a black man, posted a new workout for his clients on the PureGym Luton and Dunstable Facebook page, saying: 'Slavery is hard and so is this'. He wrote: 'Entitled '12YearsOfSlave' (after the epic movie) this is our workout of the month designed by @mattsimpt to celebrate black history month. 'Slavery was hard and so is this. The twist to this is 1 rep of your 1st exercise, 2 of the second but before you move on to the 3rd exercise which is also 3 reps you must start at the beginning to move on. 'AND thats how the entire workout goes.' Matt Simpson, a black man, posted a new workout (pictured) for his clients on the PureGym Luton and Dunstable Facebook page, saying: 'Slavery is hard and so is this' Mr Simpson was asked to delete the post and a spokesman for PureGym told MailOnline the fitness brand 'apologises unreservedly'. Mr Simpson, the assistant general manager of PureGym Luton, has been criticised on social media for his post On Instagram Mr Simpson reposted the caption, adding: 'This is the post caption along with this very picture i posted to celebrate black history month on the work social media and was ordered to remove it.' Mr Simpson's workout was named after the 2013 film 12 Years A Slave starring Chiwetel Ejiofor as Solomon Northup and Benedict Cumberbatch as William Ford. Furious social media users blasted Mr Simpson for comparing a workout to the transatlantic slave trade. Aoife Meny-Gibert wrote: 'This is not it. You might be hoping that people pointing out your monumental error in judgement is at least "engagement", but it is really not worth it.' Jaye Bonser added: 'Wow, just wow, I'm gobsmacked that someone thought this was okay to post. 'hope you've seen and are taking appropriate action against this.. Maybe an apology follower by some diversity training to start with.' [sic] Mr Simpson's workout was named after the 2013 film 12 Years A Slave starring Chiwetel Ejiofor (pictured right) as Solomon Northup and Benedict Cumberbatch as William Ford (left) Furious social media users blasted Mr Simpson for comparing a workout to the transatlantic slave trade Mr Simpson later revealed he was asked to delete the post and a spokesman for PureGym told MailOnline the fitness brand 'apologises unreservedly' Matt Elcock penned: 'I dont even know where to start on this one. Wrong, insensitive and horrendous on all levels. You have no idea what Black History Month actually represents. You should be ashamed.' Jack McGurran said: 'How many people did this pass through without anyone asking the question "wait, isn't this incredibly offensive?"' David JW Woods said: 'This is one of the most tasteless marketing ads Ive ever seen. Shameful!' Confused social media users did not understand how a black man could compare his workout with the transatlantic slave trade MailOnline has contacted Mr Simpson for comment. A spokesman for PureGym said: 'PureGym apologises unreservedly for a post made today by our gym in Luton. Laurence Fox (pictured in January) has said he will not be shopping at Sainsbury's 'This post is wholly unacceptable, was not approved or endorsed by the company and was removed as soon as it was brought to our attention. 'Each of our 271 gyms has its own social media channels which are run locally. 'We take this matter extremely seriously and are urgently investigating how and why this post was made.' Black History Month, originating in the US, recognises the role of black people in society. The month-long celebration was brought over to Britain in the 1980s. It comes after Laurence Fox accused Sainsbury's of 'promoting racial segregation and discrimination' and said he would be boycotting the supermarket chain after they promoted Black History Month. The actor, who recently announced he was launching his own political party to 'reclaim British values', denounced the supermarket on Twitter. Sainsbury's said anyone who is not happy with 'an inclusive retailer' is welcome to shop elsewhere as it says it is proud to celebrate Black History Month with their communities He said: 'Dear Sainsbury's 'I won't be shopping in your supermarket ever again whilst you promote racial segregation and discrimination. I sincerely hope others join me. RT' It came after Sainsbury's announced they would be marking Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements of the black community, recognising the central role black people have played in history. Grant Shapps said: 'We have to have a period of quarantine then test and release people' - Barcroft Media/Getty Images Quarantine could be reduced to eight days within weeks under plans to introduce tests for arrivals from "red list" countries, Grant Shapps is expected to announce. The Transport Secretary will signal the Government's intention to enable travellers to cut short their quarantine by having a single coronavirus test on the eighth day of their 14 days of self-isolation. If the result is negative, they would be freed from the restrictions. The announcement would be a victory for The Telegraph's Test4Travel campaign and could come as early as Thursday, with a taskforce set up to work up concrete plans for testing before Christmas. Tests would have to be paid for by travellers to avoid putting pressure on current NHS capacity. Speaking at the Conservative virtual conference on Monday, Mr Shapps maintained that testing on arrival would not catch up to 93 per cent of travellers who were asymptomatic. "We have got to be smarter. We have to have a period of quarantine then test and release people," he said. "I will be saying more about that shortly." Ministers are understood to have rejected the German and Icelandic models in which tests are conducted after five days, as Sage modelling suggested that would still not catch 15 per cent of potential infections. It rises to 95 per cent after eight days. They are also sceptical about a pre-departure testing where a traveller presents, on arrival, a certificate for a negative test that could shave up to three days more off the quarantine period. There are concerns about validating the test result until there are agreed international standards. "Testing later is much more promising, and that's what we are looking at," Robert Courts, the new aviation minister, told a fringe meeting at the conference. Mr Courts said questions such as the kind of testing and timescale were subject to "working ongoing now". More than 30 countries have introduced tests for international arrivals from "high risk" or other nations, sparking fears from aviation chiefs that Britain is in danger of being left behind and losing valuable trade links. Story continues Heathrow has built testing facilities at Terminal Two and Terminal Five, which could each process as many as 13,000 tests a day, but they are currently standing idle until the Government gives the green light to testing. John Holland-Kaye, Heathrow's chief executive, said testing was the "silver bullet" to open up flights to key trading partners such as the US, Canada and Singapore. "Our facilities are an oven-ready opportunity to see how Britain can safely reopen for business as other countries are doing," he added. Mr Holland-Kaye told the conference that Britain could take the lead in establishing a common international standard for testing pre-departure to reduce quarantine further, saying: "If you can get a London-New York pilot up and running, that could be a template for pre departure testing that could open the global economy up again." The virtual worldwide quarantine on British travellers has been widened to mean there are just seven holiday options left that do not include some form of restriction or test. These are Germany, Italy, Sweden, Greece, Gibraltar, Liechtenstein and San Marino. In the past two months, Spain, France, Croatia, Slovenia, Hungary, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, Malta, Netherlands, Czech Republic and mainland Portugal have all been removed from the UK "green list". The nation was horrified and captivated in 2018 when Chris Watts murdered his picture-perfect family in Frederick, COthen scrambled to cover his tracks. The case is about to achieve new notoriety thanks to a new Netflix documentary, "American Murder: The Family Next Door," which will start streaming on Wednesday. But the home at the center of the macabre tragedy is languishing in its own kind of legal purgatory. The documentary details how Watts strangled his pregnant wife, Shanann Watts, in their five-bedroom home during a fight in the early hours of Aug. 13, 2018. Chris told her he was having an affair with a co-worker and asked for a divorce. Shanann reportedly shot back that he'd never see his daughters again. So he killed her. That same night Chris murdered daughters Celeste, 3, and Bella, 4, after driving them to Anadarko Petroleum, where he worked as an operator, and smothering them in his car. He went on TV the following day, begging his wife and children to return home. But he would eventually fail a polygraph test and confessed his grisly crimes to the police. Shanann's body was found in a shallow grave on the Anadarko site, and his daughters were discovered in oil tanks. He is now serving multiple life sentences behind bars. But the fate of the Watts' roughly 4,200-square-foot, brown house, at 2825 Saratoga Trail in Frederick, is still uncertain. The unassuming, single-family house in the suburbs sits in legal limbo. The lender that owns the mortgage on the home, built in 2013, foreclosed on the property and put it up for auction. But no one bought it within a year of when it went up for sale. So the county took it out of foreclosure. ___ Watch: See Serial Killer John Wayne Gacy's Notorious Former Property ___ That means that it's still owned by convicted murderer Chris Watts. "It's not getting any bids because people know the sordid history of the house, and nobody wants it," says Denver-based bankruptcy attorney Clark Dray, who works with foreclosures. "It just sits in limbo until [a creditor] comes along and tries a foreclosure again," says Dray, who is not affiliated with the home or its former owners. The couple purchased the brand-new home for $399,954 in May 2013. It's now estimated to be worth $648,100, according to realtor.com. "Usually at least the mortgage company will attempt to buy the home so they can resell it," says Dray. That could mean the lender is worried the home won't fetch a good price or simply won't attract a buyer. Real estate investors also shied away. It's also likely to lead to significant price cuts. "The longer the house sits vacant, the bigger the discounts. [And] it's been vacant over two years," says real estate appraiser Orell Anderson, of Strategic Property Analytics. "When there are kids involved, the discounts are higher. People really dont like that, says Anderson, who specializes in real estate damages, which include properties where crimes occurred. The Netflix documentary will likely exacerbate the stigma, making the house even more toxic. Anderson expects the house will need to be discounted by 15% to 25% to sell. "It's a great neighborhood of nicely built homes. It's family-friendly. It's a great location. You can get to Denver quick from there, you can get to Boulder," says local real estate agent Tanja Nelson, of Sellstate Peak Properties, of the upper middle-class community. But the crime "was a huge deal. ... It was talked about for months." If it sells at all, it will likely be to an out-of-state buyer, Nelson says. "Everybody knows the story around here," says Nelson. "It's a nice enough house and the neighborhood's awesome. It would have sold by now if someone local felt comfortable enough to buy it." For the Watts house to be auctioned off, one of the creditors owed money from the property would have to put it back up for foreclosure. Or the state could do it if the delinquent taxes pile up. Creditors are those who have liens on the property for unpaid bills. They include Shanann's parents, Sandra and Franklin Rzucek, who won a $6 million wrongful death lawsuit against Chris, according to the property's title report. There is also the mortgage lender, water company, and local homeowners association. Potential buyers who aren't scared off by the heinous act that occurred in the home may be scared off by the attention it will likely continue to receive. They may want to alter the home's appearance, with a new color of paint or different landscaping. Or they may want to knock it down and put up a new home on the property. "If you can make the house look different from [how it was portrayed in the media], you don't get all the looky-loos," says appraiser Anderson. The post 'Nobody Wants It': Colorado Home at the Center of Netflix Murder Documentary Hangs in Limbo appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com. SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Jason Mitchell Real Estate, the Nations #1 Real Estate Team has officially opened its doors for business in Richmond, Virginia. Led by Broker Amy Arnone and Marketplace VP Adam Furman, the Jason Mitchell Group will look to duplicate its efforts as it has throughout all markets they service. By being the leader of B2B services, the JMG model is to support mortgage lenders and networks alike to service their clients who are in search for an agent. From buy side representation to listing support, the JMG brand has become synonymous with referral services. "Our goal as a company is to support our partners by providing a superior process and a world class real estate experience to each of the clients we serve. By leveraging our technology, we seamlessly support our agents and provide them an opportunity to grow their business that is unmatched in the industry," says Jason Mitchell, President and CEO of Jason Mitchell Real Estate. Now located in 16 states, The Jason Mitchell Group model has proven to be a unique niche for real estate business. Some of the national brands they service include, Rocket Homes/Rocket Mortgage , Zillow Group , Opendoor , New American Funding , Veterans United , Axos Bank , Cardinal Financial , Realtor.com and more To learn more about the Jason Mitchell Group visit thejasonmitchellgroup.com or email [email protected] SOURCE Jason Mitchell Real Estate Related Links thejasonmitchellgroup.com Photo credit: Hulu From Men's Health Spoiler warning: the following story discusses the entire episode, including the ending, of "Eugene, Oregon" from Hulu's Monsterland. The second episode of Hulu's horror anthology series, Monsterland, explores the dangers of internet conspiracy groups and radicalization. Titled "Eugene, Oregon," the episode follows a teenage boy, Nick, who cares for his ill mother and shoulders much of his family's hardships, financial and otherwise. Here's how we can interpret the episode and its ending. Just in time for Halloween, Hulu's new horror anthology series Monsterland is here to bring all the creepy, scary goodness you can fit into a 50-minute package. Done in the style of Netflix's sci-fi megahit Black Mirror, each episode of Monsterland takes place in a different city, focused on different types of monsters, both human and not human. Embedded within each episode's horror story also comes a layer of social commentary, explaining what can drive humans to do real-world monstrous things that we see and hear about with sometimes alarming frequency. The second episode in the series, titled "Eugene, Oregon," is ostensibly about shadow monsters. The protagonist of the episode is a boy named Nick (played by Ozark star Charlie Tahan), who lives an extremely troubled lifehe's about a year removed from his mother suffering a crippling stroke, rendering her unable to work. He's dropped out of school to work a fast food job for any attempt to make ends meat, and his health insurance no longer covers the medication that his ailing mother desperately needs. Photo credit: Hulu So when he sees a living shadow in his room, he doesn't know what to make of it. We know he's tied to a virtual lifehe gets his joy from gaming online and video-chatting with others. The shadow does nothing more than simply make him aware that it does, in fact, exist. When he puts up a hand puppet in the shape of a duck, the shadow person mimics his duck. It's only when Nick snaps a photo of the shadow person and posts it on the show's Reddit stand-in site that things take a turn for the much, much worse. Story continues We were all very concerned with the sort of growing power of the internet and the way that it can infiltrate the lives of these really vulnerable young people, especially really vulnerable young men, Monsterland showrunner Mary Laws told the LA Times. But we didnt necessarily want to investigate a shooter and try to understand them. Thats not by any stretch the point of the episode. What happened at the end of "Eugene, Oregon"? Given how abstractly the episode concludes, there's no real definitive answer to the question of what happened at the endwe're meant to interpret it ourselves. And in a lot of ways, it doesn't matterwe saw Nick's radicalization in front of our eyes, whether we realized what was happening or not. Part of what the episode does well is show how glacial, and incremental such a process can be. Someone getting involved with a dangerous online community isn't necessarily going to have red flags all the time right away from the beginning. Someone can be eased in, and semantics can be used, and it can be unclear even to the user what exactly they're getting into. What's abundantly clear is one thing: Nick didn't have a problem with this shadow person until he met the online Shadowhunter community. It was in his room, and it existed, but it was doing nothing more to him. But the more time he spent online, the more he was able to create this narrative in his mindthat everything bad that happened in his life was the shadow's doing, and the shadow's faultthat wasn't reflected by anything that was actually there. Photo credit: Hulu And so while this episode did contain a sentient shadow living in someone's home, the real monster is far scarier in a real-world sort of way, because it can occur without people even realizing. Throughout the episode, Nick went from a nice-but-lonely kid, coping with an absent father and a sick mother to someone blaming all of his problems elsewherejust because other people on the internet told him to. We've been conditioned through watching horror films and television for years to always think the monster, or the creature, is doing something wrong. And that might be initially where your gut goesbut Monsterland wants to make you think more than that. Nothing we see from the shadow is anything close to sinisterit's just... existing, and then running from the uninvited conflict that Nick eventually brings. At the very conclusion of the episode, after the other members of the online community have convinced Nick to basically hunt the shadow down with a makeshift "light gun," we see his hunt, and we hear the cries of his confused mother. In the episode's closing moments, the shadow surrendershands in the air, kneeling on the ground, begging to be spared. We hear gunshots as the episode ends, and the credits begin to roll. Photo credit: Hulu Given what we've seen all episodenot really knowing what was in reality and what was said on the Reddit surrogatethe gunshot makes for some major questions. Was his "gun" really just a modified flashlight? Or did he actually pick up a gun and do something worse, perhaps mistakenly unloading on his mother or perhaps himself? Again, what actually happened isn't really what matters here. What matters, in fact, is what we saw happen throughout the course of the episode. Nick went from someone frustrated with a broken systemkids who are mean to him for no reason, a health care system that doesn't allow him to properly care for his motherto someone with an unjust grudge, and willing to take action. Photo credit: Men's Health As Nicks character becomes indoctrinated into this radicalized perspective, the shadow takes on a more menacing tone, Kevin Phillips, who directed the episode, said in the LA Times piece. I think that is a great metaphor for how this type of stuff works. The more one is radicalized into a certain type of thought, the more polarized their perspective becomes; the things that would otherwise be gentle or benign or harmless all of a sudden kind of skew in a different way for them. From "larger picture" conspiraciesthe online group mentions a presidential candidate saying the word "shadow" several times during a debate and convincing themselves it was a messageto intimate connections, like the concept of romance and brotherhood, the episode shows different methods, too, that online groups can take to push people towards these ends. Photo credit: Hulu The way the episode explores these terrifying themes throughout the episode is marvelously done; while it's scary to realize that the Shadow serves as a stand-in for any sort of marginalized group that might be a target of conspiracy and hate in real life, the way the show explores the themes and process is clever and well done. It's not glorifying a shooter or someone violentall we're seeing on screen is a kid hunting down a shadow. But we know all too well what it all stands for. By the end of the episode, it's clear that the world has taken its toll on Nick. From things out of his hands to the bad influences who have gotten their (virtual) hands on his vulnerable mind, he's been changed. We kept saying We cant let him off the hook, Laws said. And I dont think we do. You Might Also Like , (President Ashraf Ghani) (Doha) ( Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah) - - 22 , , , , - Arizona News Phoenix, Arizona - This October, Arizona will once again come together during Domestic Violence Awareness Month to take a stand against all forms of domestic violence and abuse through the sixth annual Lighting Arizona Purple campaign. Domestic violence is an issue that affects all Arizonans, regardless of age, gender, or economic status. The campaign provides an opportunity to raise awareness about domestic violence, connect Arizonans to critical resources, and show support for victims and survivors. The State Capitol dome will be lit purple beginning the evening of October 1st and stay lit throughout the month. Agencies, businesses, and communities are encouraged to light their buildings and homes purple this October as a symbol of support for victims and survivors. This month and year-round, Arizona is taking a stand against all forms of domestic violence, said Governor Doug Ducey. We all have a role in supporting victims and survivors and in bringing an end to this abuse. Part of getting support to those suffering is by raising awareness of this issue and where to go for help. The State Capitol will be lit purple all month to symbolize Arizonas support to victims and survivors of domestic violence, and all Arizonans are welcome to join in lighting up their businesses and homes. Currently, the Governors Office of Youth, Faith and Family (GOYFF) has an open request for grant application to invest up to $2.5 million in programs that support prosecution, law enforcement, and community-based victim serving organizations addressing sexual assault, domestic violence, sex trafficking, stalking, and dating violence through the Arizona STOP Violence Against Women Grant. Funding for this grant opportunity is made available through the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women. The deadline to apply is Monday, October 26, 2020. "The Lighting Arizona Purple campaign creates an opportunity for Arizonans to come together and condemn all forms of domestic and family violence," said GOYFF Director Maria Fuentes. "We are proud to support and invest in prevention and awareness efforts, as well as victim services training across the state to help keep our families and communities safe." If you are concerned that a friend, family member, coworker or someone you know may be in an abusive relationship, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. For more information and to connect with additional resources visit ItCanStop.az.gov View the full proclamation below. *** WHEREAS, domestic violence is an issue affecting Arizonans in all communities, regardless of age, gender, economic status, race, religion, nationality, or educational background; and WHEREAS, twenty-four people in the United States are victims of intimate partner violence every minute; and WHEREAS, one in four women and one in ten men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime; and WHEREAS, 30 percent of children exposed to intimate partner violence had their first exposure before the age of two, and an additional 26 percent had their first exposure between the ages of two and seven; and WHEREAS, victims of domestic violence are more likely to experience long-term mental and physical health concerns including a higher risk of chronic disease, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety; and WHEREAS, challenges related to the COVID-19 global pandemic, including stressors such as unemployment, reduced income, limited resources and social support, may increase risk factors for family violence; and WHEREAS, Domestic Violence Awareness Month provides an important opportunity to enhance education, prevention and intervention efforts around domestic violence and support organizations and individuals who provide advocacy efforts, services, and assistance to victims. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Douglas A. Ducey, Governor of the State of Arizona, do hereby proclaim October 2020 as DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Arizona GOVERNOR DONE at the Capitol in Phoenix on this ninth day of September in the year Two Thousand and Twenty and of the Independence of the United States of America the Two Hundred and Forty-Fifth. ATTEST: SECRETARY OF STATE Andrea Robbins Whether you are at the senior age or not, let me and my team help you quickly transition to whatever is next for you. We will lower the stress and anxiety. We will work hard to exceed your expectations. - Andrea Robbins Global business leader and local resident Andrea Robbins is pleased to announce the launch of Caring Transitions of North Denver and Longmont. Caring Transitions specially trained professionals handle decluttering, organizing, packing, moving, resettling, in-home estate sales and online auctions, home clean-outs, estate clearing and preparing homes for market. Caring Transitions of North Denver and Longmont serves Broomfield, Erie, Dacono, Frederick, Firestone, Longmont, Mead, Niwot and the surrounding areas. I've spent my entire life antiquing, estate sale shopping, going to garage sales and auctions, and helping family and friends. I assisted moving my grandmother into a care home where she lived in Hawaii and I only had a few days to travel, find a good home, pack and move her. I know how difficult it can be for a family to do this on their own. Whether you are at the senior age or not, let me and my team help you quickly transition to whatever is next for you. We will lower the stress and anxiety. We will work hard to exceed your expectations. I found my passion and I am ready to provide you a kind arm, Robbins said. Caring Transitions services are perfect for managing the many aspects of a senior move, including assisting with the process of downsizing to provide a safer living situation, as well as for busy families and people clearing out the home of a loved one who has moved into assisted care or passed away. All of Caring Transitions services are customizable, so clients choose the solution that best fits their needs. Robbins has spent most of her professional life in human resources, most recently in a vice president role for a global company leading a large team. As a senior manager within the company, Robbins role focused heavily on business strategy, customer care, continuous improvement, process development, project management and leadership all skills shes looking forward to using with Caring Transitions. As I was thinking about what my next career step was going to be, I took a part-time job with another local Caring Transitions franchisee. I was already working 60 hours a week, but I loved estate sales and the work Caring Transitions does, so I took the job anyway. After I started to see the way Caring Transitions can really impact the lives of our clients, I realized I wanted to open my own franchise in North Denver and Longmont, Robbins said. The work we do can be physical and exhausting, but when you see the face of a grateful senior who has just moved into their resettled new apartment or you can help a family overcome was seems to be an impossible clean out, its all worth it. The work we do at Caring Transitions is immensely satisfying. Transitions whether you are decluttering, downsizing or moving can be stressful, but you dont have to do it alone or depend only on your family to pick up the pieces. Caring Transitions is uniquely positioned to take that stress off your shoulders by partnering with you and creating a customized plan to help you meet your goals, Robbins added. Caring Transitions of North Denver and Longmont is bonded and insured and employees are background checked. For additional information, call 720-254-6623, email ARobbins@CaringTransitions.com or visit http://www.CaringTransitionsNDL.com. President Donald Trump checked out of hospital Monday after four days of emergency treatment for Covid-19, pulling off his mask the moment he reached the White House and vowing to quickly get back on the campaign trail. Shortly beforehand, Trump had tweeted that Americans, who have lost nearly 210,000 people to the virus, have nothing to fear. A series of made-for-TV moments allowed Trump to squeeze the maximum from his medical discharge, starting by exiting alone from the large gold-colored front doors of the Walter Reed military hospital just outside Washington. Live on television, he then walked in a mask to a limousine, giving the thumbs up, before boarding Marine One helicopter for the quick flight to the White House -- which he left on Friday after falling ill. After landing, he walked up the steps onto the South Portico's stately balcony, demonstratively removed his mask and offered a 23-second salute to the departing Marine One. With less than a month until Election Day on November 3, polls show Trump trailing Democrat Joe Biden. The president's hospitalization left him scrambling even harder to catch up. The return to the White House was minutely stage-managed to show he is physically fit, while a series of striking tweets demonstrated Trump's coming angle of political attack: that he personally beat Covid and will now lead the country to its own comeback. "Will be back on the Campaign Trail soon!!!" he said in one tweet. "Don't be afraid of Covid," he said in another, claiming to be feeling rejuvenated after his illness. The remark startled his rival, who was campaigning Monday in Florida. "Tell that to the 205,000 families who lost somebody," Biden snapped. The former vice president added to his comments later Monday at an outdoor town hall in Miami, where he criticized Trump for downplaying the importance of masks. "I would hope that the president, having gone through what he went through -- and I'm glad he seems to be coming along pretty well -- would communicate the right lesson to the American people: masks matter," Biden said. Story continues That recommendation appeared to go unheeded, as Trump pushed out a new, unfiltered message to Americans: "Don't let it dominate your life -- get out there, be careful," Trump said in a tweeted video. - Sickness around Trump - The 74-year-old Republican's display of bravado came the same day that his own chief spokeswoman tested positive -- the latest in a viral outbreak raging within the White House. And despite his claims to be in good health again, a combination of secrecy, conflicting information from officials and the viral spread among his own circle damaged his credibility. In a briefing at Walter Reed, presidential physician Sean Conley said Trump is "back" but that he would not be "entirely out of the woods" for another week. Despite Trump's characteristic claim that Covid-19 should not be of major concern, polls show it is a huge worry for Americans. His widely panned handling of the crisis this year is also reckoned to be the main reason Biden, 77, is surging in polls. Illustrating the divide between the reality described by health experts and the White House's defiance, Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany became the latest to announce a positive test result Monday. Other positive cases close to Trump now include his wife Melania, aide Hope Hicks, campaign manager Bill Stepien, two of McEnany's assistants according to US media, and more than half a dozen others from the president's circle. - Trump singlehandedly 'defeats' Covid? - Beset by revelations that he avoids paying almost any federal income tax and a slew of other scandals, Trump was already behind Biden when he fell ill. But the biggest liability in his scramble for a second term was always his pandemic response. For months, Trump has given the appearance of trying to wish away the catastrophe and get back to his reelection narrative of a strong economy. Trump now looks poised to try and claim that in getting quickly out of hospital, he has personally vanquished the virus -- and will go on to do the same for the rest of the country. An unofficial White House-themed gift shop announced Monday it will sell a commemorative coin titled "President Donald J. Trump Defeats COVID" for $100. - Biden gets advantage - For all of Trump's determination to reassert himself, he has lost several precious days of a campaign that revolves heavily around his large-scale rallies and image of personal strength. The day after he announced his positive test, he was to have flown to battleground Wisconsin, ignoring the fact he would gather crowds in one of the nation's worst coronavirus hotspots. Biden, meanwhile, has maintained his slow-but-steady campaign that has always emphasized health precautions -- a pared-back style that Trump calls weakness and mocked as recently as last week. The upheaval has led to unusual interest in this Wednesday's televised debate between the vice presidential candidates -- Republican Mike Pence and Biden's running mate Kamala Harris -- who will be separated by a Plexiglas barrier for the event. sms-mlm/to THE family of teenage boy fighting cancer have learned that the disease has spread. Charlie Ilsley, 13, underwent three weeks of a form of immunotherapy, known as CAR-T cell treatment, in Mexico last month in the hope of saving his life. But this week his family, who live in Buckingham Drive, Emmer Green, were told a scan had shown there was a tiny area of cancer now in his brain. It is said to be growing slowly rather than aggressively. Charlie is being treated by Dr Jason Williams, director of interventional oncology and immunotherapy at the Williams Cancer Institute in Mexico City. He is looking at a plan for Charlie, which will involve injecting drugs straight into his spine so the family are facing another trip to Mexico soon. For his last scan Charlie had to be anaesthetised as he had to stay still for so long but he had a reaction to the muscle relaxant and doctors couldnt wake him up at first. When he had recovered he convalesced at the Rancho Las Cascadas, where the family has stayed before. Mrs Ilsley has written a book which tells the story of her sons fight against the disease and her search for treatment. She will release Never Give Up before Christmas. She started writing the book last year while in Turkey where Charlie was having treatment. Charlie was first diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2015. He underwent a 10-hour operation and had 31 sessions of radiotherapy followed by chemotherapy before being given the all-clear. Then in spring 2018 two tumours were discovered on his spine. Charlie was given the all-clear for the second time in August last year after undergoing specialist radiation treatment in Ankara which his family had to raise the money to pay for. But in November they were told the disease had returned after a lumbar puncture showed cancer cells in his spinal fluid. Earlier this year, the Ilsleys were told that the chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment that Charlie underwent had failed. A scan in March showed the disease in his spine and elsewhere. Mrs Ilsley searched for new treatments and found out about Dr Williams. For information on Charlie's prognosis and to help with the fundraising needed to give him treatment, go to Facebook or Just Giving. Jacinda Ardern, the prime minister of New Zealand, has committed to banning the traumatising practice of conversion therapy and to reintroducing a gender self-identification bill if she is re-elected New Zealands October 17 election is fast approaching, and Ardern, 40, has committed her Labour party to a ban on conversion therapy, something she failed to implement during her first term as prime minister. In an interview with LGBT+ publication Express, Ardern said: This is a prime example of where an element of our system allows for quite damaging activity, which in modern NZ should just not be happening. She said that her failure to pass a country-wide bill banning conversion therapy during her first term was due to New Zealands mixed-member proportional (MMP) electoral system, meaning that her party does not govern alone. Ardern added: We need numbers in the house to pass legislation. So what Im committing to is, if we are able to form a government this will be on our agenda. I will commit our numbers to delivering this and I hope there will other parties in parliament who will support it. If New Zealand delivers a parliament that doesnt give us those numbers, I will do what I can to still get it over the line, regardless. Jacinda Arden had her eyes opened by a conversion therapy film. Jacinda Ardern explained that one of the ways her eyes were opened to conversion therapy, which has often been described as torture, was watching the film Latter Days starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt. The 2003 film tells the story of a relationship between a closeted Mormon missionary and his openly gay neighbour, and Ardern said: That film never left me. Its one of the reasons I feel quite strongly about this policy. The New Zealand native was raised as a Mormon herself, a religion which holds staunch anti-LGBT+ views and continues to oppose same-sex marriage. During her 2017 general election campaign, Ardern spoke about how she came to reject the church and support LGBT+ rights, in solidarity with queer friends. Story continues New Zealand PM vows to reintroduce gender self-ID bill. Jacinda Arden also promised that if she is re-elected an amendment to the Births, Deaths & Marriage act, commonly known as the gender self-ID bill, will be reintroduced. The bill would create a less intrusive and simpler process for trans Kiwis to change their gender on documents like birth certificates and driving licenses. During Ardens first term the bill was raised but then shelved. She explained that there was a question mark around whether the legislation faced the risk of being challenged because it had not gone through a select committee process, which could cause a long debate, legal uncertainty and ultimately quite a distressing situation. She said a working group had been established with members of the trans community, to help the government get it right. She added: Working through the legislative framework to get it right is worth the time. And is ultimately how we will bring everyone together. After taking a severe hit during the COVID-19 lockdown, Indias microfinance industry is slowly limping back to normal operations. Microfinance institutions (MFIs) are in the business of giving small loans to low-income borrowers, typically farmers or small entrepreneurs. These companies source money from banks at 10-15 percent and onlend to their borrowers at 20-23 percent. With COVID-19 onslaught forcing a nationwide lockdown starting the last week of March this year, the collection rates had fallen to a trickle as MFIs collect money from borrowers mostly in cash. The risk of infections and the rules stipulated by the government made the collection process nearly impossible. The situation continued for many months. However, the repayment rates or collection rates have returned to 80-85 percent in September compared with 90-95 percent pre-COVID, said P Satish, executive director of Sa-Dhan, an industry lobby of microlenders. The reports we get from across the states indicate that collection rates have picked up substantially. We saw around 85 percent in September, which is higher than around 70 percent in August, said Satish. Similarly, August-September saw an uptick in disbursement rates as well in the microlending industry. On an average, microlenders used to disburse Rs 17,000 to Rs 20,000 crore. After falling to extremely low levels, in March quarter, disbursement levels have improved to around Rs 13,000 crore monthly average in September. There is a clear trend of disbursements picking up in some pockets as customers are returning to their normal lives, said Satish. Based on Q1FY21 data available for 52 NBFC MFI Members, loan amount disbursed through cashless mode is 93 percent. About 52 percent of members reported over 90 percent of disbursements in the cashless mode, while 42 percent members reported zero disbursements during the quarter. COVID-19 impact According to the data, during Q1FY21, NBFC-MFIs that are members of MFIN disbursed 2.04 lakh loans amounting to Rs 570 crore, as compared to 59 lakh loans disbursed amounting to Rs 15,865 crore in Q1FY20, a year-on-year drop of 97 percent in the number of loans and 96 percent in the amount disbursed. Of this, top 10 MFIs in terms of loan amount disbursed accounted for 96 percent of NBFC-MFI industry disbursements in Q1FY21, the data showed. MFIs are institutions that borrow from banks and lend to small borrowers at a margin. The COVID lockdown had severely impacted the operations of these institutions as the collection process took a hit. Indian microlenders had suffered crisis situations twice prior to this. One, during the 2010 Andhra Pradesh microfinance crisis which happened due to a draconian local law. Secondly, during the 2016 demonetisation too MFIs were hit hard as cash flows dried up and supply chains were hit. Trends in rural India The fear of COVID infections have come down among rural population with better recovery rate and more information available on the epidemic, said Kishor Kumar Puli, managing director of Pradakshana Fintech, which operates as a banking correspondent. While there has been a loss of income in rural India due to COVID, Puli said a lot of rural borrowers have adjusted to the new normal by tweaking business strategies and cutting down liabilities. I have seen many borrowers shifting from selling non-essential goods to the sale of essential items, Puli said. There have been also many cases where borrowers rushed to pre-close their loans to get rid of liabilities in uncertain times, Puli added. Funding scenario During COVID, banks' reluctance to lend to smaller MFIs too added to their woes. Bigger MFIs, however, continued to get funding. During Q1FY21, NBFC-MFIs received a total of Rs 5,973 crore in debt funding, almost equal to Q1FY20 and 52 percent lower than Q4FY20 at Rs 12,448 crore, MFIN said. As on June 30, 2020, NBFC-MFIs collectively had a network of 14,167 branches with 1,09,239 employees. Overall, the funding scenario has improved even though smaller companies are still struggling to get cheaper funds like the bigger ones. There has been a lot of improvement in credit availability compared to the initial phase of lockdown. However, smaller ones will have to pay more, said Satish of Sa-Dhan. While bigger MFIs get loans at 10 percent-14 percent, smaller ones, which typically borrow from non-banking finance companies, pay 16-17 percent. Microlenders, especially smaller ones, are pinning hopes on Nabards Rs 5000 crore special liquidity scheme for smaller MFIs. We expect this scheme to benefit smaller MFIs which are largely left out so far, Satish said. The MFI industry, which is largely dependent on rural India, had come to a complete halt during COVID. However, beginning September, normal activities are slowly returning to the sector. The rural economy which was hit hard by COVID is slowly getting back to normalcy. Customers are adjusting to the new normal. With collection rates are picking up and disbursements improving, small lenders are past the critical phaseat least that is the hope. Two dozen of the cat-sized carnivorous marsupials known as Tasmanian Devils have been released into the wild on Australia's mainland, 3,000 years after they became locally extinct. Conservationists have described the initiative as a "historic" step. Aussie Ark, along with a coalition of other conservation groups, revealed on Monday that they had released 26 of the feisty mammals into a 400-hectare (1,000-acre) sanctuary at Barrington Tops, about three-and-a-half hours north of Sydney. Tim Faulkner, president of Aussie Ark, said the "historic" releases, which took place in July and September, were the first steps in a project akin to the successful move to return wolves to Yellowstone National Park in the United States in the 1990s. Sixteen years of preparation After 16 years of work, including the establishment of mainland Australia's largest Tasmanian Devil breeding programme, Faulkner said it was "incredible and surreal" to have reached the goal. Tasmanian Devils, which weigh up to 8 kilograms (18 pounds) and have a black or brown coat, typically prey on other native animals or scavenge carcasses. According to government environmental authorities, devils are not dangerous to humans or livestock but will defend themselves if attacked and can cause serious injury. Population ravaged by facial tumours The animals -- known for their extremely loud growl, powerful jaws and ferocity when confronting rivals over food or mates -- are classified as endangered after a contagious facial tumour disease ravaged the remaining population on the Australian island state of Tasmania. It is estimated that fewer than 25,000 Tasmanian Devils still live in the wild, down from as many as 150,000 before the mysterious, fatal disease first struck in the mid-1990s. On Australia's mainland, they are believed to have been wiped out by packs of dingoes -- wild dogs native to the vast continent -- an estimated 3,000 years ago. "Devils present one of the only natural solutions to the control of fox and the cat, and the fox and cat are responsible for nearly all of our 40 mammal extinctions (in Australia)," Faulkner added. "So there's more than the devil at stake here." PM's father seen wearing mask below nose while waiting for Bakerloo Line train Transport for London rules state face coverings must be worn 'inside stations' 80-year-old said: 'It's only my third day back in London. I am learning every day' It comes after Stanley was slammed for not wearing a covering in a supermarket He was also photographed pulling one down while he read in an airport last week Stanley Johnson has apologised after being spotted again not wearing a face mask properly, breaching his son's anti-coronavirus rules. The Prime Minister's father was snapped wearing the face covering pulled down below his nose while waiting at a station to board a Bakerloo Line train today. ADVERTISEMENT Transport for London (TfL) rules state that masks must be worn for the 'full duration of journeys' in the capital city, including 'inside stations'. It adds that those who do not wear a face covering on the public transport network could be denied travel or receive a minimum 200 fine. After the photograph was published, Stanley, 80, insisted he was unaware that rules also applied when standing on the platform. Stanley earlier shared a photo of him with Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey and MP John Penrose on his Instagram. He wrote: 'Masks firmly in Place on the Jubilee Line with @theresecoffey and @JohnPenroseNews after #CPF session at the ''virtual'' Conservative Party Conference.' It comes after the I'm A Celebrity star was slammed for not wearing a face covering in a supermarket and pulling one down while he read in an airport last week. Stanley Johnson was snapped wearing the face covering below his nose while waiting on a station platform to board a Bakerloo Line train in London today The Prime Minister's father (left) shared a photo of him with Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey (right) and MP John Penrose (centre) on his Instagram today On its website, TfL says: 'Face coverings must be worn for the full duration of journeys on the public transport network, including inside stations, and in taxis and private hire vehicles.' When informed that wearing a face covering is required on all areas of the London Underground, Stanley said he was 'happy to be informed' that is the case, adding: 'It's only my third day back in London. I am learning every day.' He added: 'I have certainly got my mask on the platform, I agree it is below my nose. This has been a fast learning curve for me and I'm certainly grateful for the vigilance of my fellow travellers. ADVERTISEMENT 'Thanks to all of you for sending photographs of me every time I appear in public. I am really taking a huge, huge... I'm taking this very seriously.' Click here to resize this module Downing Street said the coronavirus rules should be followed by everyone. The Prime Minister's official spokesman said he did not know whether Boris Johnson had spoken to his father about the latest incident. But referring to previous images of Stanley without a mask, the spokesman said: 'I know the Prime Minister's father has set out that he recognises his error and fully understands it's vital for everyone to abide by the rules on face coverings and social distancing. 'As I said last week, the Prime Minister is very clear that everyone needs to follow the guidance on hands, face, space - the rules apply to all of us.' It comes after the I'm A Celebrity star was slammed for not wearing a face covering in a newsagent. At the time, the Met Police said he would not be fined Stanley was also photographed pulling a face covering down while reclining on an airport chair and reading a book last Sunday (pictured) Asked whether Mr Johnson should face a fine, the spokesman added: 'It's not for me to advise the police in relation to individual cases, that's not how it works in this country.' Since July 4, enforcement officers have stopped 7,613 people in breach of Covid-19 rules from boarding and removed 1,780 from services, according to TfL. The mass transportation operator has also issued 491 fines to passengers who refuse to comply with the rules over the same time period. A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police told MailOnline: 'As a matter of course the MPS is not investigating COVID-related issues retrospectively. Where we become aware of a breach occurring, officers will seek to engage, explain and encourage people to follow the rules, only enforcing as a last resort. 'Where alleged breaches are brought to our attention after the event, officers will not have not had the opportunity to engage, explain or encourage, and those involved will not have not had the opportunity to respond positively to that process as most people do. ADVERTISEMENT 'Therefore, it would not be appropriate or an effective use of resources in most circumstances to investigate or pursue enforcement. We encourage everyone to make themselves aware of, and to follow, the rules.' A BTP spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Face coverings are a mandatory requirement on public transport. 'If officers are on patrol and see someone not wearing a face covering on a train or at a station, or not wearing it properly, they will begin by engaging with them and reminding them of the reasons why the protections are a necessary and lawful requirement. On Wednesday he was photographed shopping in his local newsagent without any face covering. Downing Street said the coronavirus rules should be followed by everyone 'In these cases, the overwhelming majority of people will listen and comply, without the need for enforcement.' Stanley also faces questions after a new biography claimed he hit the PM's mother in a domestic violence incident that broke her nose. The 80-year-old was seen reclining on an airport chair while reading a book with his mask pulled down his face last Sunday. He was waiting for a plane in Athens, Greece, where the law states masks have to be worn at all times in public spaces. Stanley had spent three weeks at his Greek villa before he was spotted openly flouting the rules while waiting for an aeroplane to return him to the UK. Airport witnesses also claimed that he had disobeyed social-distancing rules. One told The Daily Star: 'I first noticed Stanley because he sat too close to me at the gate so I had to shuffle along the seats to maintain social distancing then I noticed he wasn't wearing his mask properly. 'I find his behaviour shocking given he is the father of the Prime Minister who is currently enforcing these rules.' On Wednesday he was photographed shopping in his local newsagent without wearing any face covering. Stanley admitted he was 'maybe not 100 per cent up to speed' with the rules having just returned from abroad and said he was 'extremely sorry'. At the time, the Met Police said he would not be fined because he was a first-time offender. Unhappy families: Boris is on the far left, his parents on the right. Mr Bower describes Stanley's first marriage, to Boris Johnson's mother Charlotte, as violent and unhappy, quoting her as saying: 'He broke my nose' Meanwhile, a biography claimed on Saturday he had hit the PM's mother in a domestic violence incident that left her needing hospital treatment. It is one of a string of revelations in The Gambler, a major biography of the PM by Tom Bower, which is being serialised in The Mail on Sunday. Mr Bower describes Stanley's first marriage, to Boris Johnson's mother Charlotte, as violent and unhappy, quoting her as saying: 'He broke my nose.' She added: 'He made me feel like I deserved it.' 'I want the truth to be told.' Family friends on Saturday confirmed the story to the Mail on Sunday, but insisted the incident had been a one-off. Stanley was previously met with a furious backlash earlier this year after he jetted to his four-bedroom home in Greece - ignoring Foreign Office guidance at the time. ADVERTISEMENT He had claimed he needed to 'Covid proof' his villa before the letting season began. COLUMBUS, Ohio - Preliminary results from two independent, phase II clinical trials investigating a new PD-1 (programmed cell death protein 1)-based immune therapy for metastatic cervical cancer suggest potential new treatment options for a disease that currently has limited effective options and disproportionately impacts younger women. David O'Malley, MD, of The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC - James), presented the preliminary study results at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Virtual Congress 2020 on Sept. 18. O'Malley was the lead presenter for both trials, which were sponsored by Agenus Inc. Each study involved more than 150 patients with recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer from cancer treatment centers across the United States and Europe. All patients were previously treated with platinum-based chemotherapy as a first-line therapy. The two independent but consecutive phase II trials tested a new immune-based agent called balstilimab given alone or in combination with a second monoclonal antibody drug called zalifrelimab. Balstilimab is part of a class of drugs called checkpoint inhibitors. These drugs target the PD-1 protein within cancer cells and act as an "on" switch to help the immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells that would otherwise go undetected. Zalifrelimab is a drug that delivers engineered molecules (monoclonal antibodies) that allow for improved immune response to attack cancer cells. For the first study, 160 patients were treated with single-agent balstilimab, resulting in a 14% response rate in all treated patients and a 19% response rate in PD-L1 positive patients. For the second study, 155 patients were treated with balstilimab given in combination with zalifrelimab, resulting in a 22% response rate in all patients and a 27% response rate in PD-L1 positive patients. "These two studies represent the largest trials of immuno-oncology therapies in relapsed cervical cancer to date and show that balstilimab and zalifrelimab may present meaningful new therapies for patients with cervical cancer," O'Malley says. "Advances in these agents offer renewed hope for patients who have limited treatment options. This is especially important because this disease disproportionately affects younger women." ### O'Malley is a gynecologic oncologist at the OSUCCC - James and professor at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. O'Malley is a compensated consultant for Agenus, sponsor of the studies. To learn more about gynecologic research and patient care at the OSUCCC - James, visit cancer.osu.edu or call 1-800-293-5066. About the OSUCCC - James The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center - Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute strives to create a cancer-free world by integrating scientific research with excellence in education and patient-centered care, a strategy that leads to better methods of prevention, detection and treatment. Ohio State is one of only 51 National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers and one of only a few centers funded by the NCI to conduct both phase I and phase II clinical trials on novel anticancer drugs sponsored by the NCI. As the cancer program's 356-bed adult patient-care component, The James is one of the top cancer hospitals in the nation as ranked by U.S. News & World Report and has achieved Magnet designation, the highest honor an organization can receive for quality patient care and professional nursing practice. With 21 floors and more than 1.1 million square feet, The James is a transformational facility that fosters collaboration and integration of cancer research and clinical cancer care. Weve always sought to make sense of the economy to better understand how it works so that we can make accurate predictions and achieve more certainty in our lives. But for as long as the desire to understand has existed, so has the phenomenon of being shocked and dismayed. We are regularly surprised by how economic performance unfolds, rarely according to plan, and almost always in unpredictable ways, even to the experts. The underlying reason for the surprise is the flawed model of the economy as a machine, a model embraced by the central bankers who believe they can adjust a dial to make it perform as they wish and by the many Nobel laureates in economics who opine upon the levers that we must pull to enable the machine to generate rising, predictable and broad prosperity. Unfortunately, that desired march has stalled. In its place over the past 50 years weve seen a divergence between the economic winners and losers; those who work for an hourly wage or in locally focused industries are the ones who suffer most, and who fall further behind with each passing year. If we wait for bold, decisive moves by government officials, we are going to continue to be disappointed. We need a different model and a broader set of actors taking positive steps. The alternative model is that the economy can be more properly and usefully seen as a natural system a complex and adaptive one, with which we have little certainty of the reaction to interventions, other than the world will adapt in multiple, unpredictable ways. Because it is both complex and adaptive, we need more smaller tweaks engaged in continuously to guide it in a more productive direction. On this front, Canadian citizens provide a series of nice examples of little tweaks that add up to making a meaningful difference. Those citizens can be business executives, government officials, educators and ordinary citizens. For example, in the 1970s, entrepreneur Isadore Sharp decided with his fledgling Four Seasons Hotel chain to treat his workers in a fundamentally different way than, essentially, all his hotel competitors. He felt that the only way his employees would treat their guests the way Sharp wanted is if Sharp treated his employees that way. Not only did that help Sharp build the most successful luxury hotel chain in the world, he demonstrated decisively that hotels could pay much more than a living wage to all employees and be highly successful financially. Leading up to and through the global financial crisis, Canadian banking-system oversight had a much different feel than that in the United States, which was highly rule-based: if the standing legislation allowed something, it was done. But that wasnt the approach that government official Julie Dickson, superintendent of the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions, used in Canada. She believed in and practised a more flexible, responsive, dialogue-based supervisory oversight that adjusted the context for bank decision-making as the market evolved. That flexible, tweaking approach is credited, in part, with the Canadian systems much superior performance during the financial crisis. In 2009, educator Ellie Avishai recognized that as long as elementary school students are taught the machine model of the world, they will never be able to manage in a fashion consistent with the complex adaptive system in which they will really live. She modified the integrative thinking curriculum she learned in her Rotman MBA to create the I-Think Initiative, an innovative program for teaching K-through-12 students how to make better decisions in a complex, adaptive world. Private citizens in Canada, dismayed by the plight of the Vietnamese boat people after the U.S. pulled out of Vietnam, lobbied the Canadian government to allow for private sponsorship of these refugees, over and above the existing quotas for refugees and outside the normal parameters. This resulted in the creation of the still-unique Private Sponsorship of Refugees Program in 1979. The program came to the fore again almost 40 years later during the Syrian refugee crisis. Thanks to the care and work of Canadian citizens across the country, Canada was able to take a disproportionately high number of Syrian refugees, more than 50,000, while avoiding much of the political furor that accompanied publicly run Syrian refugee immigration in the U.S. Since its inception in 1979, the program has facilitated the private sponsorship of 275,000 refugees. These Canadian cases show that citizens dont have to wait for legislators to help the economy work better for all; they can take little actions that can add up to a lot. A dozen alleged associates of the Texas Mexican Mafia were arrested in San Antonio on federal drug trafficking charges, officials announced Friday. The San Antonio-area trafficking operation involved methamphetamine, heroin and cocaine, according to U.S. Attorney John F. Bash. On Friday, authorities seized 15 firearms, approximately 20 kilograms of suspected meth, cocaine and cash. The investigation dubbed "Operation Last Dance" had previously seized meth, two kilograms of heroin and 18 firearms. On ExpressNews.com: Testimony at San Antonio trial highlights inner workings of the Texas Mexican Mafia "The arrests made as part of Operation Last Dance in San Antonio and the surrounding areas conclude a comprehensive investigation by (the Drug Enforcement Administration) and our law enforcement partners into the criminal activities of violent local street gangs to include members of the Mexican Mafia, Texas Syndicate, and their criminal associates," said DEA Special Agent in Charge Steven S. Whipple. Last year, testimony at a San Antonio trial highlighted the inner workings of the brutal prison gang that started in the mid-1980s. This week, a federal grand jury returned an eight-count indictment against all 12 defendants. Ten were arrested Friday and two were already in custody. The indictment alleges they were responsible for dealing drugs from July to Sept. 23. The charges include conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Each of the 12 defendants are San Antonio residents. Here are their potential prison terms if convicted: Donald Trevino (aka Fluffy, D, Uno, Gordo), 32, 25 years to life imprisonment Rodolfo Villalobos (aka Fluffy, Chubs, Oro), 38, 15 years to life imprisonment David Botello (aka Torito, Bully, Bullyman), 50, 15 years to life imprisonment David Cortez Jr. (aka Tazmanian, Taz), 29, 10 years to life imprisonment Moses Chavez (aka Moe, Mighty Mouse), 40, 10 years to life imprisonment Nicholas Neaves (aka Snoopster, Snoop), 25, 10 years to life imprisonment Richard Agueros III (aka Herc), 36, 10 years to life imprisonment Robert Arzola Jr., 41, 10 years to life imprisonment Luz Del Carmen Velarde-Campos (aka Prima), 33, 10 years to life imprisonment Aaron Muniz (aka Primo), 36, 10 years to life imprisonment Isabel Hernandez-Garcia, 35, 0 years to life imprisonment Joseph Lloyd Vonallman (aka Jv), 36, up to 20 years imprisonment A group who called themselves old-time Fishtowners walk west on Girard Avenue carrying bats, hammers and shovels in Philadelphia on June 1. The men said they were protecting their neighborhood in the event looters or rioters showed up in Fishtown. Read more Anne Berg, a history professor at the University of Pennsylvania, was born and raised in Germany, and although her parents are basically hippies, she said, her grandparents were Nazis. That close connection led Berg to a vocation as a scholar of Nazi Germany, exploring the role played by people, she said, who rocked me to sleep. Now, Berg is among many academics and others watching what she calls a rapid descent toward fascism, in the United States, right from her home in Fishtown. Back in 2017, she was already drawing parallels with prewar Germany but warned her students against catastrophizing. No longer. To expect that things are going to return to normal is irresponsible, Berg said. People need to be aware of the risks we are facing right now. Is American Democracy at risk? After last Tuesdays volatile debate, with a belligerent President Donald Trump signaling paramilitary white supremacist groups to stand by, repeatedly calling the voting process into question, and raising the specter of postelection violence, lots of Americans may have joined a growing chorus of academics and others who have sounded the alarm for, in some cases, years. READ MORE: Bad things happen in Philadelphia, Trump says at debate, renewing false claim about poll watchers We have to understand, we are not immune from what has happened in other parts of the world and other time periods, said Nikol Alexander-Floyd, a Rutgers University political science professor. This is what a potential coup looks like. Post-debate, on a scale of 0 to 100, with 100 being a total democratic breakdown, a survey of independent experts by the Protect Democracy Project scored the current level of threat to American democracy at 56, indicating substantial erosion. Uncertainty compounded by weeks end with the president and first lady testing positive for COVID-19. Were on a knifes edge, said Eddie S. Glaude Jr., chair of the department of African American studies at Princeton University. The Republic is in serious jeopardy. But even while drawing historical parallels to countries that have faced totalitarianism, or have experienced contested elections that became violent Germany, Kenya, Venezuela, Ukraine scholars interviewed last week have advice (vote), and say it is more difficult to truly predict where the country is headed. My biggest concern has been President Trumps statements calling into question the integrity of our election process, said Sarah Bush, a Philadelphia-based Yale professor who studies democracies worldwide, focusing on conditions causing voters to lose faith in elections. She also has taught at Penn. I worry that this will discourage people from voting or from accepting results, she said. I am concerned that the U.S. is at more risk of postelection instability and even violence than it has been in the past. Still, scholars say, a backsliding democracy is still a democracy that can be protected and fortified, from the bottom up even if not from the top down. People understand the window is closing for us to stop this, says filmmaker and authoritarian scholar Andrea Chalupa, cohost with author Sarah Kendzior of the Gaslit Nation podcast, which has been sounding the alarm about rising autocracy under Trump since 2018. In autocracies like Turkey and Russia, even when up against the autocracy of a dictatorship, local elections do matter," said Chalupa, whose film, Mr. Jones, takes place in Stalinist Ukraine, during the Holodomor, the catastrophic famine. The most crucial thing Americans must be doing right now is getting to know local government from bottom to top and running for office themselves. That loud indicator Glaude sees Trump as that loud indicator, sitting in the sweet spot of unbridled greed and racism. But he also views the current threat as an outgrowth of a 40-year ideology that challenged the notion of a strong central government, eviscerating the notion of public good. Liberty has become a synonym for selfishness, he said. People cant even put on the damn mask. That intensifying polarization with rivalry among neighbors exacerbated by social media, with anger and accusations erupting on even the mildest of community Facebook pages, with political flags flying over beach chairs is itself a sign of an eroding democracy, scholars say. Berg, the scholar of Nazism, says she is reminded of early-1930s Germany, in the waning days of the Weimar Republic, when both ends of the political spectrum, fascists and communists, lost faith in the democratic system and urged that it be dismantled. READ MORE: Trump-Biden cage fight stokes global perception of a country in decline, mired in chaos These are warning signs for democratic fragility, Berg said. Once we agree the democracy is under threat and the institutions no longer work for us, we dont feel the need to defend them. In Philadelphia, she said, the police teargassing of Black Lives Matter protesters and the response by self-styled white militia groups feed moments that speed into a general sense of hopelessness. The coronavirus pandemic only further exposed inequalities. The fragmentation, the disillusionment, the sense that opposing world views are fundamentally irreconcilable, are an important parallel, Berg said. Thomas Carothers, director of the Democracy, Conflict, and Governance Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, called 2020 a much more fragile election than you see in almost any well-established democracy. He cited the countrys decentralized and antiquated electoral system, and the continued stoking by Trump of mistrust in voting. Hes calling out to the most violent of his supporters, Carothers said. Theyre ready to defend him. Thats awfully dangerous. In the last decade, he said, there has been a trend toward disputed elections and electoral violence. Its become more and more a pattern, mostly in developing democracies, Carothers said. Its startling to see it in the United States. READ MORE: Democrats are gearing up to watch the polls as Trump mobilizes supporters Underbelly of the country While some may feel newly startled in confronting existential civic crises, racial injustice, and economic, health, and voting insecurity, those shifting grounds can feel like worn territory for communities of color. The underbelly of the country is in full view, Glaude said. We have been dealing with that for generations. But democracies do not topple all at once, scholars note. In Kenya, election-related violence in 2009 led to a unity commission that decentralized power, to make it less of a thing worth fighting for, Carothers said. Trumps power to break democracy is to convince people to go along with his process, he said. He himself cant control the process. Alexander-Floyd, the Rutgers professor, also says people are not powerless and points to general strikes that have slowed coups elsewhere. We have a role to play, she said. In Tunisia, during the 2011 Jasmine Revolution, 28 days of civil resistance led to the countrys democratization. Votes do matter, Bush, the Yale professor, said. Theres little enthusiasm among scholars for the argument that alarmism is itself harmful, or that Trumps words overstate his actions. That is a formulation that comes out of the idea of America as the redeemer nation, as democracy achieved, on our way to a more perfect union, Glaude said. All of that is the rhetoric of feigned innocence. We have to grow up. Glaude says to prepare for the long haul. Novembers not going to settle anything, he said. If [Trump] wins, all hells going to break loose. If he loses, all hells going to break loose. We just need to buckle up. Pain Management Companies To Settle False Claims Act Allegations Milwaukee, Wisconsin - The Department of Justice announced Thursday that Advanced Pain Management Holdings Inc. (APMH), its wholly-owned subsidiaries, APM Wisconsin MSO (APM MSO) and Advanced Pain Management LLC (APM LLC); and Advanced Pain Management S.C. (APMSC) (collectively the APM Entities) have agreed to pay $885,452 to settle claims that they violated the False Claims Act by paying kickbacks and by performing medically unnecessary laboratory tests. The APM Entities are headquartered in the Milwaukee area. Healthcare providers must make recommendations about their patients health without respect to their own financial interests, said Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey Bossert Clark for the Department of Justices Civil Division. We will continue to do our part to protect federal health care program beneficiaries and the American taxpayers from the corrupting influence of kickbacks designed to undermine the impartiality and integrity of physician decision making. The financial arrangements pursued by APMH wrongly gave physicians an incentive to make medical decisions based on their own financial interests, rather than their patients interests, said U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Krueger for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. Medicare and Medicaid only pay for procedures and tests that are medically necessary and untainted by kickbacks. This settlement reflects our offices continuing efforts to combat violations of the False Claims Act and improper arrangements under the Anti-Kickback Statute. It is imperative that the public has faith and trust that the decisions made by medical providers are based upon the best interests of their patients said Lamont Pugh III, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Inspector General Chicago Region. The specter of a payment of a kickback in any form or fashion diminishes that faith and trust and can lead to the improper payment and wasting of limited taxpayer dollars. The OIG will continue to work with our investigative partners to ensure the continued integrity of federally funded health care programs. The United States alleged that APMH improperly gifted shares of incentive stock to non-employee APMSC physicians who performed pain management procedures at APMHs ambulatory surgical centers. The incentive stock was to be redeemed upon a sale of APMH and was dependent on the profitability of APMH, which was determined largely by referrals from the non-employee physicians. The incentive stock was allegedly given as a reward for past and anticipated referrals to APMHs ambulatory service centers. The United States further contended that APMH paid non-employee APMSC physicians to serve as medical directors in a manner that was tied to the volume of procedures at APMHs ambulatory surgery centers. There were no written agreements documenting the services the medical directors were to provide, and the medical directors were not required to record or report any medical director functions. The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting or receiving remuneration to induce referrals of items or services covered by federally funded programs. The Anti-Kickback Statute is intended to ensure that a physicians medical judgment is not compromised by improper financial incentives and is instead based on the best interests of the patient. The United States alleged that the APM Entities performed confirmatory urine drug tests that were medically unnecessary. For certain claims, providers allegedly failed to customize orders for confirmatory urine drug tests based on each patients individualized risk assessment and circumstances, resulting in a higher level of testing than supported by the medical record. The APM Entities disclosed these improper urine drug test claims to the Department of Health and Human Services. The settlement resolves allegations originally brought in a lawsuit filed by a whistleblower under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, which allow private parties to bring suit on behalf of the government and to share in any recovery. The whistleblower will receive $142,152 as her share of the federal recovery in this case. The APM Entities settlement with the United States is based on their ability to pay, and is part of a broader settlement that also resolves various state law claims. The case was handled by the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin with assistance from the Justice Departments Civil Division, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. The lawsuit is captioned United States, et al. ex rel. Hedstrom v. Advanced Pain Mgmt., et al., Case No. 13-C-556 (E.D. Wisc.). The claims settled by this agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 22:09:38|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close DOHA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Qatari health ministry on Monday announced 194 new COVID-19 infections, raising the total number of confirmed cases in the Gulf state to 126,692, the official Qatar News Agency (QNA) reported. Meanwhile, 189 more people recovered from the virus, bringing the overall recoveries to 123,664, while the fatalities remained 216 for the third day running as no new deaths were reported, according to a ministry statement quoted by QNA. The ministry reiterated the need to take preventive measures, including staying home and observing social distancing. A total of 800,519 people in Qatar have taken lab tests for COVID-19 so far. Enditem NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- White Star Capital , a global multi-stage technology venture capital investment platform, today announced the first close of its new $30M Digital Asset Fund. The new fund will invest in crypto-networks and blockchain-enabled businesses at each layer of the tech stack including protocols, infrastructure and applications. The Digital Asset Fund will deploy between $500,000 and $2.0 million in initial investments into 15-20 companies with a core focus in Europe and North America. The team will take a research-driven approach to maximize returns through early access in both equity and tokens. To date, the fund has made two investments: dfuse , a blockchain API company that helps developers build performant applications by organizing the world's decentralized data; and Multis , a Y Combinator backed company, which offers "crypto-first" business banking accounts with an aspiration to bridge the gap between Decentralized and Legacy Finance. The Digital Asset Fund marks White Star Capital's first specialty fund and will be run by New York based General Partner Sep Alavi and supported by Principals Thomas Klocanas in New York and Sanjay Zimmerman in Toronto. The fund will also benefit from White Star Capital's extended team in London and Paris, as well as a network of venture partners in Tokyo, Hong Kong, San Francisco and Switzerland. As an early-stage investor since 2013, Sep has been investing in crypto assets and involved with blockchain companies for the past five years. Previous to joining White Star Capital, he spent 12 years working in capital markets in Paris, Chicago and New York City. Thomas, started his career as a research analyst in the fintech and financial sector at Barclays in London before spending two years at Consensys in New York and consulting for various blockchain projects such as Coinhouse and Blockstack. He joined White Star Capital eighteen months ago. Sanjay joined White Star Capital in Montreal in 2017 and was recently promoted to Principal after completing his MBA at INSEAD in Singapore, Philadelphia and Fontainebleau. "Digital Assets are gaining adoption, and venture valuations and token round distributions have rationalized, which is an attractive entry point," said Sep Alavi. "Incumbents are rapidly entering the space and embracing the next wave of innovation. At WSC Digital Asset, we are looking to partner with the next generation of startups building global networks and frictionless business models. We are actively interested in investing in crypto protocols, infrastructure and middleware, privacy, financial, gaming, and social use cases" While regulation continues to evolve pragmatically and positively around the sector, enterprise and institutional giants like Fidelity, JP Morgan, Facebook, Walmart and Square are embracing blockchain technology at an accelerating pace and this is just the beginning. According to a report by Andreesen Horowitz, startup and developer activity in the space have been growing 53.9% and 74.4% CAGR since 2010. "White Star Capital's international footprint and network, as well as our team's blockchain expertise position us well to make an impact in the digital asset sector," said Eric Martineau-Fortin, Founder and Managing Partner of White Star Capital. "Our platform and network will give us access to exceptional deal flow from various companies across blockchain use cases." About White Star Capital White Star Capital is a global multi-stage technology investment platform that invests in exceptional entrepreneurs building ambitious, international businesses. Operating out of New York, London, Paris, Montreal, Toronto, Tokyo, and Hong Kong, our presence, perspective, and people enable us to partner closely with our Founders to help them scale internationally from Series A onwards. Find out more about how we venture beyond at www.whitestarcapital.com or follow us on LinkedIn , Twitter or Facebook . Media Contact Rozeta Andres Clarity PR [email protected] SOURCE White Star Capital GREENBELT, Md., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Technologies developed at NASA have helped locate more than 46,000 people through Cospas-Sarsat, an international cooperative system for search and rescue. Furthering the impact of the program, the Strategic Partnerships Office at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, has licensed a second-generation search-and-rescue technology to a company named Concentric Real Time LLC, based in Ellicott City, Maryland. "NASA's search and rescue technologies have saved the lives of thousands of people," said Eric McGill, a senior technology manager with Goddard's Strategic Partnerships Office. "By licensing this receiver technology, we're expanding the reach of NASA's lifesaving innovations." NASA's Search and Rescue (SAR) Office, based at Goddard, generates search and rescue technologies for the Cospas-Sarsat community, which uses satellites to provide location data to authorities searching for people who are lost or otherwise in need of rescue. Individuals can carry personal locator beacons; ships, pleasure craft, and aircraft can store beacons on board in case of emergency, which Cospas-Sarsat uses to determine their position. The new receiver improves on the previous generation of technologies, providing more accurate location data than older systems. Reese Bovard, the president of Concentric Real Time, built the new receiver that his company is licensing. Currently a contractor for NASA's SAR Office, Bovard has worked at Goddard for 13 years as an engineer. The receiver he developed pairs with a new, higher-resolution signal that produces highly accurate location results. Bovard said the receiver technology is an important building block for the new search-and-rescue system that NASA's SAR Office has developed. Though civil search and rescue is the office's primary mission, the group's technologies have also been adapted for astronauts as part of their survival gear upon return. "With search and rescue, there's a direct humanitarian benefit that comes from this work," Bovard said. NASA's Technology Transfer program ensures that technologies developed for missions in exploration and discovery are broadly available to the public, maximizing the benefit to the nation. NASA has an extensive patent portfolio and software catalog with hundreds of technologies available for licensing by the private sector. To learn more about NASA's Search and Rescue Office, please visit: https://esc.gsfc.nasa.gov/projects/SAR For more information on Goddard's Strategic Partnerships Office, please visit: https://partnerships.gsfc.nasa.gov/index.html SOURCE NASA Related Links http://www.nasa.gov EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the first in a two part series on a lawsuit in Benzonia Township after several local marijuana petitions were denied by the township. Part two shows the processes behind how Benzonia Township went about creating its marijuana ordinances and the expected economic impacts on the area. BENZONIA TWP. What started as a petition aimed at bringing the topic of marijuana operations in Benzonia Township to the ballot turned into several other failed petitions and then this summer, a lawsuit. The lawsuit involves a Benzie County resident and plaintiff, Mary Haan, versus Benzonia Township and it started in July, according to court records. DENIED PETITIONS Jason Barnard, Benzonia Township supervisor and zoning administrator, said the township was sued after it denied several petitions that asked for things that are not allowed due to current statute. The latest petition was denied due to invalid language, Barnard said. The language they were asking for was to ban medical and recreational (marijuana) facilities and establishments and they also wanted to repeal both of our current working ordinances, he said adding that a ban on medical marijuana facilities wouldnt be allowed under the proposal. Theyre also asking to repeal current working ordinances, which isnt allowed either. Barnard said the township has two marijuana ordinances in place. We have two valid, medical and recreational, ordinances which would be in direct conflict of (the petition), he said. Its very hard to amend a current zoning ordinance. Its also very hard to adopt an additional ordinance alongside of. There are several marijuana businesses that have opened in the area in the last two years. Lake and Leaf opened at 2448 Benzie Highway in Frankfort on Aug. 28 for both medical and adult use marijuana. The business also has plans to expand with grow operations in Benzonia Township. Great Lakes Natural Remedies is located at 1983 Benzie Highway, Benzonia. It started as a medical marijuana provisioning center in December 2019 and then expanded to also be an adult-use retail location earlier this year. Lume Cannabis Co. is located in Honor, within Homestead Township. It hosted a ribbon cutting in January and both Lume staff and Barnard officially opened the business for adult-use recreational sales. Haan, plaintiff and petitioner, said said she filed a suit against the township because of the denied petitions. Haan added that Benzonia Township leaders are not allowed to (be the) judge on ballot proposals. Their job is to just pass along the ballot proposal as expected by the voters who signed the petitions of 2019 and 2020, she said. Haan said that Benzonia Townships leadership has repeatedly refused to place citizens initiative petition drives on the ballot so that the people could decide. She said that did not happen and because of that she took the township to court in July. In an emailed statement, Haan cited addiction as part of the reason for wanting to get the question on a ballot. Barnard said the township had received three petitions in the last year and a half or two years. Barnard said the first one did not have the number of required Benzonia Township resident signatures. He said that meant there needed to be at least 5% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election and that the requisite totaled roughly 80 signatures. Each petition since, Barnard said petitioners were able to meet the minimum signatures. The second time, it was submitted to us on what would have been a special election, he said adding that the proposal that had passed into law legalizing marijuana in 2019 was very specific, that petitions must be submitted at the next regular election which is defined in the Michigan election law as being one of a couple specific elections. He said that meant it could have appeared on the March presidential primary election, August primary or the November general election this year. We received another petition for this past August, but the language was invalid. So, that was the third reason we denied it. Each time, there was a reason for the denial based on statutory requirements from Proposal 1, Barnard said. Michigan voters passed Proposal 1 in 2018 to allow adult-use marijuana often called recreational marijuana that allows people 21 and older to purchase marijuana without the need of being a medical marijuana card holder. Barnard said the most recent petition proposals denial still gave petitioners enough time to fix the needed changes and resubmit. When we initially did the denial, that was before the August primary which there was plenty of time to still produce another petition with language that was correct, Barnard said. Once we denied it based on their language, they could have simply drawn up the petition with the correct language which I was clear about what was wrong with the current language. He said if the language had been correct and the minimum signature count had been met, its our duty to put it on the ballot. We would have allowed that without a doubt. But instead, they sued us over the previous denial and language, he said. ANOTHER PETITION? Barnard said the next possible chance for a correctly worded marijuana-centered petition would depend on when the next regular election is set to happen. Theres been kind of conflicting (thoughts as to when the next regular election is). Theres argument for two years and theres argument for four years. It comes down to interpretation and whos interpreting it, he explained. Barnard has had legal counsel say they believe it is in four years at the next presidential election while other attorneys have said the next gubernatorial election in two years would be acceptable. If it turns out that they would be allowed to submit petitions to ban, or to limit recreational sales, establishments in any way, and all of the requirements were met for the petition we will definitely put it on the ballot, but not before, Barnard said. Barnard said the township is not legally permitted to take a petition that someone already got signatures for under the specific language and change the language to be in compliance. In an emailed statement, Haan said the township has become the go-to place for pot shops. Haans goal with the petitions is to get the question on a ballot for voters to decide locally if they wish to allow marijuana businesses to operate in the township. In her statement, she added that the passage of Michigans Proposal 1 that was approved two years ago made provision for people who did not want pot shops in their municipalities to do something about pot shops. However, Haan said she will not do another petition drive. When you do petitions, you kind of go to the people you know, and a couple looked right at me and said we dont trust you, we are not signing ... and it just really hit me, Haan said. Somebodys signature is one of the most important things they have, and they wouldnt trust me with it. So how about all these other people? However, Haan said her attorney is still working on trying to get the issue on an upcoming ballot for residents of Benzonia Township to vote on. She hoped to be able to get the question on an upcoming ballot using the most recent petition. According to court files, the suit was still considered an open case as of Oct. 5 in Benzie Countys 19th Circuit Court under Judge David Thompson. Thompson had denied a motion by Haan on Aug. 27. RELATED: Lake and Leaf provides marijuana users with options Great Lakes Natural Remedies to expand into adult-use recreational marijuana Lume Cannabis Company launches Benzie Countys first adult-use marijuana retail location President Donald Trump says a coronavirus vaccine will be approved within weeks. Health experts say several months is more likely. Approval is one thing. Producing enough vaccine so everyone can be vaccinated is quite another. The chief of the worlds largest vaccine manufacturer, the Serum Institute of India (SSI), says that will take four or five years. Any safe, effective vaccine against COVID-19 will be in short supply until production ramps up. In the meantime, whos first in line to get vaccinated? Plans are still being worked out. Each country or organization will have to determine whom it immunizes initially and how the vaccine will be distributed, said Sir Mene Pangalos, executive vice president of pharma giant AstraZeneca, in an interview with the BBC. In the United States, a four-phase approach drafted in September by a panel assembled by the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM), strives to fairly allocate limited supplies of a vaccine to U.S. residents: Phase 1 (a): Health care workers and first responders (5% of the U.S. population) Phase 1 (b): People with underlying medical conditions that put them at high risk of severe COVID-19 disease or death, and older adults in densely populated settings like nursing homes (10%) Phase 2: Essential service workers at high risk of exposure, teachers and school staff, inmates and prison staff, people in homeless shelters, older adults who have not already been treated, people with underlying medical conditions facing moderate risk (30-35%) Phase 3: Young adults, children and essential service workers at increased risk of exposure (40-45%) Phase 4: All remaining residents (5-15%) Last month the World Health Organization also released a guidance for a global vaccine allocation that is still in its early stages. It lists which groups should have priority access. The U.S. hopes to get 300 million doses, with the first doses available by January, through its fast-track vaccine program, Operation Warp Speed. Meanwhile, the WHO, epidemic response group CEPI and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance of governments and organizations, have been pooling resources to ensure that rich countries dont monopolize vaccine stocks at the expense of poorer nations. Through their COVAX plan, they are hoping to raise about $2 billion to support the speedy development of a vaccine and ensure its equitable distribution worldwide. Their goal is 2 billion doses for vulnerable countries by the end of 2021. At least 80 wealthy nations and economies have joined the COVAX effort. The United States is not among them. The Gavi plan parallels the NASEM guidance, with health workers getting the first dibs on a vaccine (3% of a countrys population) and the over-65s and high risk groups next in line (20%). No country will receive enough doses to vaccinate more than 20 percent of their population until all nations in the group have been offered that amount. The cost of an individual vaccine dose could vary widely. SSI is being bankrolled with $150 million from Gavi and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to make and deliver up to 100 million doses of successful vaccines to India and low- and middle-income countries. The ceiling price for a dose is estimated at $3, but few patients are likely to be charged. Australia says the vaccines it administers to its people will be free. Pharmaceutical company Moderna is reportedly selling access to its potential vaccine at between $32 and $37 a dose, according to the BBC. Some Americans may have to pay out of pocket to be inoculated if they are uninsured or enrolled in a plan requiring a co-pay. Every two weeks, Zombie House Flipping star and Hummelstown native Keith Ori writes about the notable differences between growing up in Pennsylvania and living in Florida. Heres how Florida works. About this time of year, when PA is preparing to head inside until -- what, May or something? -- Floridians are finally venturing outside. Youre probably like, Yeah, I get it, the snowbird thing and all, but our seasonal shift is actually probably greater than you imagine. See, unlike Pa., very little happens outdoors in Florida in July and August. Its just too damn hot. So at the exact moment youre grilling, fishing, running and generally doing a lot of stuff that ends in ing, Floridians arent doing squat. July and August are, effectively, our winter. One thing Floridians do during this time is travel to cooler climates, kind of like how a lot of New Orleans natives plan a two-week getaway over Mardi Gras -- its exactly the right time to not be here. For this reason the most popular July/August hashtag on a Floridians Facebook post is likely #Coloradoisamazing. Back in Florida though, the beaches arent empty by any stretch. We seem to have an unending supply of alabaster tourists from the British Isles deeply committed to becoming burn victims. Theyre like solar lemmings or something. Youd think theyve never seen the sun before. Oh, and theyve definitely never eaten Mexican food; I worked at a Tex-Mex place when I first moved to Florida, and the Brits would perpetually ask, in the Queens finest English, for things like Queez-a-dillas and Fa-jii-tas. Seriously, would you eat something called a Fa-jii-ta? Actually, dont answer that. Im drifting off-topic anyway. Where was I? Right, the beach. Interestingly our lakes are no better; you cant swim in them in the middle of summer because of the risk of brain-eating amoebas, or Obamas as my son explained when he was about six, a decade ago. We had some relatives visiting at the time and they have Never. Let. Me. Forget. That. Our foliage is a lot different here as well. Pa has both deciduous and coniferous trees, while Florida just has trees. Yes, I know North Florida has deciduous trees, but ask anyone south of St. Augustine and theyll tell you north Florida is just Georgia in disguise. And of course, as my mom likes to point out, Pa. has seasons. Ive argued that its just nine months of bad weather followed by preparation for bad weather, but in reality summers in Pennsylvania are verdant wonders. Ive described the beauty and the tranquility of Pa. summers to people here in Florida, but theres simply no way to do them justice. Ive shown photos of the swimming lake in Mount Gretna to local friends only to have them go Thats incredible! You grew up where Wes Anderson filmed Moonrise Kingdom? Sort of. Its a good point though. Summers in Pa. are so ridiculously idyllic that its a hard act for the rest of the year to follow. Its like being in a relationship with someone that deeply loves you for a quarter of the year but wishes you ill for the rest of it. Year after year. Florida, by this single means of evaluation, is actually more stable than Pennsylvania, with brilliant weather for ten months and dont leave your air conditioning for two. Want to have some fun next time you come to Florida? Ask somebody the last time they went leaf peeping. Theyll probably blush. Actually, its Florida, so they probably wont, but the questions youll receive back will be hysterical because nobody here has ever heard of leaf peepers. Because we dont have leaves. And nobody in the history of ever has gone pine straw peeping. Remember back when it used to snow, and cars used to break down all the time (note to Millennials: cars used to do two things: take you places and break down at spectacularly inopportune times. Now they only do one of these) and you legitimately had to inventory the survival kit in your trunk? You know whats in a Floridians trunk survival kit, then and now? A well stocked beer cooler. Different places, different considerations, different priorities. So right now in Florida, little league season has just started, all of our 5Ks, 10Ks, (basically all the Ks) are being run, people are cleaning out garages, shaping up their landscaping, and catching up with their neighbors after a couple of months of summer hibernation. We are also just past the peak of hurricane season, and while if theres ever a time when Floridians are waiting for the other shoe to drop, its the beginning of September. Though its worth remembering that hurricanes can arrive as late as November. So while Florida could lose power because a warm water storm the size of Brazil shows up uninvited as late as November, Pa. could simultaneously lose power because of a Polar Vortex or Bomb Cyclone ice storm. And the way 2020 is going, whos going to bet against it? Keith Ori is presently writing a memoir of growing up in Central Pa. He can be reached at his website or on Instagram at @keithori READ MORE: The lessons of Pa. high school football resonate in Florida | Keith Ori Florida folks have no i-deer how important hunting is in Pa. | Keith Ori WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Following the turnaround seen in the previous session, treasuries showed a notable move to the downside during trading on Monday. Bond prices fell sharply in morning trading and remained firmly negative throughout the afternoon. As a result, the yield on the benchmark ten-year note, which moves opposite of its price, climbed by 6.6 basis points to 0.762 percent. With the upward move on the day, the ten-year yield reached its highest closing level in almost four months. The weakness among treasuries came amid positive reports about President Donald Trump's health after he was rushed to Walter Reed hospital on Friday. In a video posted on Twitter late Sunday, Trump said he is 'getting great reports from the doctors' regarding his battle with the coronavirus. Trump revealed in a tweet late in the trading day that he will be releases from the hospital at 6:30 pm ET. 'Feeling really good! Don't be afraid of Covid. Don't let it dominate your life. We have developed, under the Trump Administration, some really great drugs & knowledge. I feel better than I did 20 years ago!' Trump tweeted. The appeal of safe havens such as bonds was also reduced following the release of a report from the Institute for Supply Management showing activity in the U.S. service sector unexpectedly grew at a faster rate in the month of September' The ISM said its services PMI rose inched up 57.8 in September from 56.9 in August, with a reading above 50 indicating growth in the service sector. Economists had expected the index to edge down to 56.3. A report on the U.S. trade deficit may attract attention on Tuesday along with a speech by Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. Bond traders are also likely to keep an eye on the results of the Treasury Department's auction of $52 billion worth of three-year notes. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de The United States finds itself in a $1.67 trillion student loan debt crisis and nowhere is that crisis more apparent than in Connecticut. According to LendEDUs 5th annual Student Loan Debt by School by State Report, an analysis of student loan debt data for the Class of 2019 at 475 higher education institutions, the average Connecticut student loan borrower from the Class of 2019 had $41,579 in student debt upon finishing their college education. For the second consecutive year, Connecticuts average student debt per borrower figure was the very worst in the country. Only one other state, New Hampshire, had a student loan debt per borrower figure that was above $40,000. Whats more unsettling is that Connecticuts figure for the Class of 2019 was a 7.23 percent year-over-year increase from its figure for the Class of 2018. Further, a staggering 80 percent of Connecticut graduates from 2019 left campus with student loan debt. For reference, the report from LendEDU found the national average student debt per borrower figure to be $29,076 for the Class of 2019, while 55 percent of all U.S. graduates from this class had some amount of debt. On a school-by-school basis, Connecticut institutions with rather high student loan debt figures included the University of Saint Joseph ($38,916) and Southern Connecticut State University ($42,326). If theres good news in Connecticuts student loan debt crisis, its that the situation can only improve at this point. And strangely enough, the coronavirus pandemic may have created opportunities for The Constitution State to do just that. When college students around the country were sent home to finish their Spring 2020 semester online in an effort to flatten the curve, a funny thing happened. Some students, who would have never considered attaining an online degree before, grew fond of the virtual experience. The state of Connecticut should capitalize on this newfound openness to completing a college education entirely online by offering a permanent, state-of-the-art online education program at all of its public colleges and universities. This would lower student loan debt in the state because tuition for the virtual route would cost far less than that for the traditional in-person higher education experience and thus require fewer student loans. The justification for dropping tuition for the permanent online option simply being that it offers far less to students compared to the in-person alternative where attendees have access to professors and top-class facilities, in addition to the intrinsic value that comes with learning to be self-sufficient on a college campus. In tandem with the above, another step Connecticut can take to reduce its student loan debt is partially reimbursing all students at its public colleges and universities for the Spring 2020 semester that became severely overpriced when colleges shut down in March. Students didnt get the learning experience they originally paid for and through a partial pandemic reimbursement, Connecticuts public institutions can do the right thing while simultaneously chipping away at the states immense student debt burden. Another student loan debt strategy the state can implement in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic is creating state-run student loan forgiveness programs for Connecticuts first responders who graduated from a Connecticut college and remained in the state to work for a minimum of three years after college. As of right now, Connecticut has a single student loan forgiveness program for teachers so extending their forgiveness policies to include nurses, paramedics, firefighters, and law enforcement officers would be a great way to boost the states economy by encouraging employed taxpayers to stay in-state, pay homage to those who answered the call during the pandemic, and also help turn the tide of Connecticuts student loan debt crisis. A final option for Connecticut to consider if its serious about reducing student loan debt in the state is implementing a student loan debt cap at all of its public colleges and universities. While this proposal doesnt relate directly to the coronavirus pandemic, it would still boost the financial outlook of so many young adults that have now lived through two recessions. This would entail creating an upper limit on how much student loan debt any in-state student can take on to attain a bachelors degree at a public higher education institution located in the state. Any remaining college costs past that limit are then funded by the institutions themselves. By capping a college students debt load around $50,000, Connecticuts average debt per borrower figure will come down and the states young adults will have more financial flexibility in their post-grad years. Connecticut has the worst individual crisis within the countrys larger student loan debt crisis, but if the state gets creative with its student loan policies and adjusts to the times we now find ourselves in, it can finally begin the long process of eliminating the financial burden caused by student loan debt. Michael Brown is the Director of Communications at LendEDU. He can be reached at brown@lendedu.com. KYIV, Ukraine: Authorities in Belarus said Monday that more than 300 people were detained during the previous days protests against the countrys authoritarian president, who won his sixth term in office in a vote widely seen as rigged. The Interior Ministry said 317 people were detained during rallies in several cities Sunday against Alexander Lukashenko. In the capital, Minsk, where according to a rights group nearly 120,000 took part in a rally on Sunday, water cannons were used to disperse the crowds, the ministry said. Police estimated the turnout to be around 10,000 people. In the city of Vitebsk police used tear gas against protesters, the ministry said. The vast majority of those detained 258 remain in custody pending a court appearance. Mass protests have rocked Belarus for almost two months, with the largest held on Sundays and drawing up to 200,000 people. The unprecedented unrest was triggered by the results of the Aug. 9 presidential election that handed Lukashenko, who has run Belarus with an iron fist for 26 years, victory with 80% of the vote. His main challenger, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, got 10%. She and her supporters refused to recognize the results, saying the outcome of the vote was manipulated. Initially, Belarusian authorities cracked down brutally on protesters, with police detaining thousands and injuring scores with truncheons, rubber bullets and stun grenades. The government has since scaled down on the violence but has maintained the pressure, detaining hundreds of protesters and prosecuting top activists. Prominent members of the oppositions Coordination Council, formed to push for a transition of power, have been arrested or forced to leave the country. The violence elicited international outrage. Last week, the European Union imposed sanctions on 40 officials suspected of election misconduct and the crackdown on protesters. Lukashenko didnt make the list. The Belarusian opposition hopes to greatly expand the list of sanctioned officials, Tsikhanouskayas spokeswoman, Anna Krasulina, told The Associated Press on Monday. Our list includes around 800 names all those who committed violence against peaceful citizens, who gave orders to commit violence, all of them will have to answer, Krasulina said. Those who falsified the election made the list as well. According to Krasulina, the expanded list will be presented on Tuesday during Tsikhanouskayas meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. We see that the EU decided on the sanctions and imposed them. We expect the sanctions list to grow significantly," Krasulina said. She added that the opposition counts on Germanys help" to start a dialogue with Belarusian authorities about holding a new election. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor Rob La Gesses resume reads like a Hollywood script. Navy veteran. Mayor. Wi-Fi development team member. Author. A man of many talents, La Gesse credits his accomplishments to working with great leaders and innovators of technology. That, and caring about others around him. My life, from being a medic to a vice president in a publicly-traded company, has been about how I can empower other people, La Gesse, 59, said. I call it compassionate leadership. Everything that happened to me happened because I was nice to someone. Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer He grew up in Papineau, Illinois, one of six boys. At 16, his family moved to Corpus Christi. He said it was a memorable trip because they drove through traffic-jammed streets of Memphis on the day of Elvis Presleys funeral. College wasnt a financial option. In 1979, after La Gesse graduated from Mary Carroll High School, he enlisted in the Navy. La Gesse trained as a respiratory therapist and deployed as a combat medic with the Marine Corps. The medical training he received has enabled him to perform life-saving CPR on many occasions in more than a few unexpected places, including a boat, plane and at a hardware store. On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio beautician proud of her family legacy In 1984, La Gesse married Diane, an Army nurse who was stationed at Fort Sam Houston. He separated from the Navy so they could stay together and not be assigned to different duty stations. When she was transferred to San Francisco, La Gesse, now a civilian, went with her and worked 18 months at Letterman Hospital tending to crack babies, AIDS patients and people who jumped from the Golden Gate Bridge. Seeing sadness every day prompted him to leave the health care field. I was losing more than I was winning, La Gesse said. His next career started the day he stepped into a Radio Shack in Novato, California, to order a battery and saw a help-wanted sign. La Gesse asked the manager what qualifications the job required. Can you count money? the manager replied. La Gesse took the job. Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer Three months after La Gesse was hired, he became the stores manager at age 23. The store drew in Hollywood legends such as Francis Ford Coppola, Robin Williams and Steven Spielberg. Coppola, a frequent shopper, gave him a bottle of wine from his winery before La Gesse left the store when his wife was reassigned to San Antonio. Ive just been dropped in places where Ive met these interesting people, he said. Its pure happenstance. About the author A 22-year veteran of the Air Force, Vincent T. Davis embarked on a second career as a journalist and found his calling. Observing and listening across San Antonio, he finds intriguing tales to tell about everyday people. He shares his stories with Express-News subscribers every Monday morning. See More Collapse La Gesse repaired print shop equipment and sold computers while he picked up a new hobby running a multi-line, dial-up bulletin board system that allowed users to connect with each other . He taught himself how to program, a move that resulted in a job with a local, small engineering company developing wireless networking technology. Look at WiFi today. People dont think about it. Its there, its like oxygen, La Gesse said,adding that it wasnt like that when wifi was first developed. Nothing was more exciting than taking your laptop outside and to still be on the Internet. That was unthinkable. In 1995, his wife was assigned to Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii, where he became a Red Cross volunteer. They lived at U.S. Army Fort Shafter, in Hauoli Heights, overlooking Honolulu. La Gesse, a stay-at-home dad, volunteered as mayor of the community to improve living conditions for thousands of military families. It wasnt a political appointment, but had some of the same duties as a regular mayoral position. But not all, he was quick to add. I wore the white hat, La Gesse said. I built a super playground and championed daycare. It wasnt like being a Ron Nirenberg mayor. Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer On ExpressNews.com: Honeys Place on San Antonios East Side a throwback to old nightclubs and soul food stops A stint with his old company moved him to Melbourne, Florida, 20 miles from Cape Canaveral. Four hurricanes within four months left his home without power, water or internet service. Then the company downsized and he lost his job in Florida. La Gesses employers moved him on an executive relocation package back to the Alamo City. He had been divorced for several years and as a single father sought to spend more time with his children, Derek and Lauren, who were in his custody. From 2005 to 2008, he worked as an independent technology consultant and became a customer of Rackspace, the internet hosting company. At one point, he worked with Rackspace on an event involving several companies and was pleased with the results. At the end of the event, Graham Weston, Rackspace co-founder and then-CEO, stopped by. After a series of meetings, Rackspace recruited Le Gesse as director of software development. And another career was born. Tom Reel / Staff photographer On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio foster care advocate grew up in system she wants to help improve for future kids Nan Palmero, director of marketing at Office Furniture Liquidations, said his friend has a magical way with words. He said La Gesses matter-of-fact style helps him share a gentle word with those that need a pick-me-up and then deliver a bold message to leaders with conviction. Where others would wring their hands, Rob speaks with courage, Palmero said. Hes so open to speaking to anyone, he regularly publishes his cell phone number publicly on social media inviting anyone anywhere to call and talk. Its a good thing he doesnt sleep. Now semi-retired, La Gesse has embarked on his latest career, sharing lessons hes learned in a book titled, Replace Yourself: The Tech Geeks Guide to Navigating Leadership. Proceeds go to dog rescue rescues in San Antonio, Denver and Boulder, Colorado. His humanitarian gesture is a tribute to the canines in his life, especially his rescue dog, Yoshi, a border collie he said rescued him during a time of need. Everything in my life has been about the people around me, La Gesse said. Ive been lifted by so many shoulders. Vincent T. Davis is a reporter in the Greater San Antonio and Bexar County area. To read more from Vincent, become a subscriber. vtdavis@express-news.net | Twitter: @vincentdavis Three more cases of African swine fever (ASF) have been confirmed in wild boars in the eastern German state of Brandenburg, Germanys federal agriculture ministry said on its website on Monday. The new discoveries bring the total number of confirmed ASF cases to 49 since the first one was detected on Sept. 10. All the cases were in wild animals so far, with no farm pigs affected, the ministry said. The latest cases were found in the same area of the first discoveries, the ministry said. A case had on Wednesday been found in a new area about 60 kilometres away from the first. Germanys Friedrich-Loeffler scientific institute had confirmed the latest animals had ASF, the ministry said. German authorities are continuing intensive searches for dead wild boar in Brandenburg to assess the extent to which the disease has spread. The ministry has previously warned that more cases in wild boar have to be expected as the disease is highly infectious. China and a series of other pork buyers banned imports of German pork in September after the first case was confirmed, causing Chinese pork prices to surge. US President made a surprise drive-past to greet his supporters outside a military hospital where he has been admitted since Friday for the treatment of the deadly coronavirus, drawing criticism from Democrats and a leading medical expert. The brief drive through Rockville Pike in Bethesda, a Maryland suburb of Washington DC, that separates the National Institute of Health and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, brought cheers to his supporters who have been praying for the 74-year-old president's health ahead of the presidential election next month. "I really appreciate all of the fans and supporters outside of the hospital. The fact is, they really love our Country and are seeing how we are MAKING IT GREATER THAN EVER BEFORE! Trump said in a tweet soon after his unannounced drive-past. Trump, a Republican is seeking another term in the White House. He is being challenged by former Vice President Joe Biden of the Democratic Party in the November 3 election. Trump and the First Lady Melania tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday night. Trump was shifted to the military hospital on Friday, which his doctors and White House said was taken out of abundance of caution. On Sunday, before going out to wave at his supporters, Trump in a video posted on his Twitter handle said he will give a little surprise to some of the great patriots, who have been on the streets, and they have been out there for a long time. They love our country. I am not telling anybody but you, I am about to make a little surprise visit, Trump said. The president was seen wearing a mask and waving at his supporters from inside the black SUV. The windows were closed. When I look at the enthusiasm. We have enthusiasm like probably nobody ever had, he said. Trump in his short video message said he has learnt a lot about COVID-19, literally by going to school. This is the real school, he said in his video clip from inside the military hospital. I get it. I understand it, he said. White House spokesman Judd Deere said appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the President. The movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do, he said. "President Trump took a short, last-minute motorcade ride to wave to his supporters outside and has now returned to the Presidential Suite inside Walter Reed," Deere said in another statement soon thereafter. "More than 205,000 Americans are dead. We need leadership. Not photo ops," tweeted Hakeem Jeffries, chairman of the Democrats in the US House of Representatives. A senior doctor at the military hospital strongly criticised the president's motorcade ride due to the infection risk inside the car. "That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of Covid-19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures," Dr James Philips, Chief of Disaster Medicine, tweeted. "Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary Presidential drive-by just now has to be quarantined for 14 days. They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity," he wrote in another tweet. The White House Correspondents Association or WHCA expressed its outrage at the decision of the president. It is outrageous for the president to have left the hospital even briefly amid a health crisis without a protective pool present to ensure that the American people know where their president is and how he is doing, the WHCA said in a statement. Two secret service agents wearing masks were seen inside the black SUV. The pool of reporters organised under the WHCA, who cover the president, were not informed in the presidential movement outside the hospital. Now more than ever, the American public deserves independent coverage of the president so they can be reliably informed about his health, the WHCA said. Earlier in the day, his doctors said the president was doing well, and he had not had fever since Friday. They hoped that the president might be discharged from the hospital on Monday. A 17-year-old Maryland boy has been arrested in Ohio for allegedly stabbing his five-year-old half-sister to death and then fleeing 500 miles west in his family's car. Stephen Jarrod Davis II was tracked down by authorities in Springfield, Ohio, on late Saturday morning and has been charged as an adult with first-degree murder, the Anne Arundel County Police Department said in a news release. The victim, identified as Anaya Jannah Abdul, was found dead at a home in the 4100 block of Apple Leaf Court in Pasadena at 8.15am on Saturday, about four hours after she was killed. Scroll down for video Stephen Davis, 17, has been charged as an adult with first-degree murder in the stabbing death of his five-year-old half-sister, Anaya Abdul, in Pasadena, Maryland The child's body was discovered covered in stab wounds at a home on Apple Leaf Court Police said an autopsy had been completed and the cause of death was determined to be multiple sharp force injuries. Detectives are still looking for a motive in this case and the investigation remains active. 'For a child to have that much rage on another child, why? I think that's the main question all of us are asking,' Lt. Jackie Davis, of the Anne Arundel County Police Department, told WBAL-TV. The police department said its crisis intervention team was working with the responding officers and the victims family. 'It's pretty shocking,' neighbor Weezer Allen told Fox Baltimore. 'It really makes you wonder. You're 100 feet away from something going on and you don't know what's happening.' At around 11.15am on Saturday, Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers found Davis driving his family's stolen car in the area of US 40 near I-70 and a high-speed chase ensued, reported WHIO. This map shows the nearly 500-mile distance between the crime scene in Pasadena, Maryland, and the location where Davis was arrested after a high-speed chase After a 20-minute pursuit, Davis's car came to a stop on I-70 just west of I-675, and the driver was taken into custody, according to OSHP. Davis, who was not facing any additional charges in Ohio, was awaiting extradition back to Maryland, police said. Abdul was a kindergarten student at Fort Smallwood Elementary School, according to a letter sent by the school's principal, Bobbie Kesecker, to parents, as WMAR 2 News reported. The five-year-old enjoyed drawing, dancing, singing and making videos. ITI jumped 4% to Rs 130.15 after the company signed contract with the Ministry of Defense to implement Rs 7796 crore ASCON Phase-IV project. The state-run company on Thursday (1 October), said that it had signed Rs 7,796 crore Phase IV project of Army Static Switched Communication Network (ASCON) for deploying strategic network for secured communication across the country and subsequent maintenance for next 10 years. ASCON is the army's telecom network spread across different terrains in the northern, north-eastern and western regions. The project is an IP MPLS based communication network with microwave radio, satellite and optical fiber network as media. The project includes installation, commissioning and maintenance of telecom equipments like IP/MPLS routers, NMS, mobile nodes, test equipment and civil works for providing the complete infrastructure at various sites and roll out optical fiber network of about 11,000 kms. The scope of the project also includes a warranty period of two years and maintenance support of the network for another eight years after the warranty. ITI, a multi-unit central public sector undertaking, is a total solution provider in telecommunications segment. It offers complete range of telecom products covering the whole spectrum of switching, transmission, access and subscriber premises equipment. As of 30 June 2020, the Government of India held 90.27% stake in the company. ITI reported consolidated net loss of Rs 102.29 crore in Q1 June 2020, higher than net loss of Rs 61.04 crore in Q1 June 2019. Consolidated net sales rose 2.5% to Rs 165.01 crore in Q1 June 2020 over Q1 June 2019. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) One of Meghan Markle's former Suits co-stars has praised the Duchess of Sussex for speaking out about the upcoming US election after her comments drew sharp criticism from both sides of the Atlantic. Patrick J. Adams, who played Markle's love interest in the hit show, said in a new interview that he was 'very, very happy' with his friend's efforts to encourage people to vote next month. The Canadian actor was promoting his new Disney+ show The Right Stuff, when he was asked whether he'd seen the Duchess since she relocated to the United States. 'I think she's pretty busy, but I am happy to have her back stateside,' he told Access Hollywood on Friday. Patrick J. Adams said he is no longer in regular contact with Meghan Markle but is glad she is back in the United States and that he was 'very, very happy that she's becoming very vocal and doing whatever she can to help the election in November' after she and Prince Harry urged people to vote in a video message The Canadian actor was promoting his new Disney+ show The Right Stuff when he commented on the Duchess of Sussex's recent video message with Prince Harry, which some have seen as a thinly-veiled criticism of President Donald Trump and indication of the couple's support for Democrat Joe Biden He added that he is 'very, very happy that she's becoming very vocal and doing whatever she can to help the election in November.' The actor, who attended Markle's 2018 wedding to Prince Harry, also said he was no longer in regular contact with the Duchess. 'I miss my friend, but I'm very happy she's doing well.' Adams and Markle starred together in the hit US legal drama Suits. Adams played Mike Ross, an extremely intelligent college dropout who starts practising as an unlicensed lawyer, while Markle played Rachel Zane - a paralegal and Ross' love interest Adams was one of several Suits stars that attended Markle's 2018 wedding to Prince Harry. He is seen above at the venue with his wife Troian Bellisario, an actress best known for her role in Pretty Little Liars His comments come after Markle and Prince Harry urged Americans to vote and hinted that they support the Democratic candidate Joe Biden in a recorded video message. The Duke of Sussex urged people to 'reject hate speech' while the Duchess called the November 3 vote 'the most important election of our lifetime.' They made the comments in a Time 100 video produced to go with the publication of this year's list of the most influential people, in which the couple do not appear. The Duke and Duchess spoke out about the upcoming US election, in a stark break with British tradition that prohibits royal involvement in politics. However Buckingham Palace issued a statement reminding people that the couple are not working members of the royal family and made the statements in a private capacity Prince Harry said: 'As we approach this November, it's vital that we reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity' 'As we approach this November, it's vital that we reject hate speech, misinformation and online negativity,' said Harry in a line some observers in Britain and the US immediately took to be a plug for Joe Biden and a slap at President Trump. California-born Markle, 39, said: 'We're six weeks out from the election, and today is Voter Registration Day. 'Every four years, we're told the same thing, 'This is the most important election of our lifetime. But this one is. When we vote, our values are put into action, and our voices are heard.' President Donald Trump slammed Markle from the White House podium following the video's publication, saying 'I'm not a fan of hers,' in response to a question posed by DailyMail.com. 'I would say this - and she had probably heard that - I wish a lot of luck to Harry because he's going to need it.' Trump slammed Markle from the White House podium following the comments, telling DailyMail.com that he's 'not a fan of hers.' 'I wish a lot of luck to Harry because he's going to need it' On the other side of the Atlantic, some voiced concern that the Duke and Duchess had crossed a line as the royal family are expected to remain politically neutral at all times. How British royals are expected to keep out of politics Under Britain's constitutional monarchy, powers which theoretically belong to the Queen - such as appointing ministers and approving legislation - are exercised in her name by political leaders. This system means that political decisions are taken by the elected government rather than unelected royals, while keeping the monarchy as a symbol of the British state and its traditions. The royals' political neutrality, which the Queen has scrupulously observed for 68 years, is key to maintaining this balance and to preserving the monarchy's popularity. A YouGov poll earlier this year found majority support among both Conservative and Labour voters as well as Brexiteers and Europhiles for maintaining the British monarchy. The Queen's uncle King Edward VIII had to abdicate in 1936 because the government refused to support his planned marriage to American divorcee Wallis Simpson - fatally compromising his neutrality. While there is no law explicitly preventing the royal family from voting in UK elections, doing so would be an unacceptable breach of protocol. The Queen holds weekly conversations with her prime ministers and she is entitled to 'advise and warn' them when necessary, but the nature of her advice is never made public. Even her guarded comment that voters should 'think very carefully about the future' ahead of the 2014 Scottish independence referendum was seen as an unusual intervention. Prince Charles is known for writing lengthy letters to ministers on policy subjects such as agriculture, some of which were made public in 2015. William and Kate have also spoken out on the environment, launching a prize to tackle climate issues last year. Princess Diana - who like Harry and Meghan became semi-detached from the monarchy - was known for her campaigning on land mines, once allegedly describing the UK government's policy as 'hopeless'. Her involvement sparked criticism from some Conservative MPs, but the Labour government that took office shortly before her death was more favourable to her campaign. Advertisement However, Buckingham Palace issued a statement reminding people that 'the Duke is not a working member of the royal family' and describing his comments as 'made in a personal capacity'. While many viewers saw Harry and Meghan's comments as a thinly-veiled endorsement of Biden, a source close to Harry insisted the Duke was not referring to Trump or any other individual. 'The duke was talking about the tone of debate in the run-up to an election which is already quite febrile,' they said. 'He is not talking about any candidate or specific campaign. 'He is building on a lot of stuff that he's said before about online communities, how we engage with each other online, rather than specifically making any political points.' In the US, Trump aide Corey Lewandowski swiped at the couple before the president himself fired back at Meghan on Wednesday evening. 'They made Britain great again by leaving, I hope they do the same for us,' Lewandowski, now a senior 2020 advisor to the Trump campaign, told DailyMail.com Wednesday. Trump campaign spokesman Jason Miller argued that Harry's warning about 'hate speech' could be seen as an attack on Biden, who leads in the polls. 'I'm assuming you're asking me because of Joe Biden's record of hateful and divisive language, particularly toward the African American community?' he responded when asked by DailyMail.com for comment. He added: 'I read this as warranted criticism of Joe Biden's racist policies. He's the only person I know of who has spoken at a Klan member's funeral!' a reference to Biden's eulogy for former the late Senate leader Robert C. Byrd, who was a Klan member in West Virginia in the 1940s but later apologized for what he called a 'sad mistake.' Markle told Marie Claire in August that she intended to vote. 'I know what it's like to have a voice, and also what it's like to feel voiceless,' she said. 'I also know that so many men and women have put their lives on the line for us to be heard. 'And that opportunity, that fundamental right, is in our ability to exercise our right to vote and to make all of our voices heard.' Before marrying Harry but after Trump's election, Markle called Trump 'misogynistic' and 'divisive' in a TV appearance. Speaking in the video message, apparently filmed from their California home, Harry admitted he was not eligible to vote - adding that he had never voted in the UK either where convention dictates that royals keep well clear of politics. Royal experts told DailyMail.com that the couple should give up their titles and sever their links to the monarchy for good if they wanted to comment on US politics, while insiders told The Times that palace aides would be concerned about their intervention. Markle's involvement in the Time 100 video follows a separate intervention last month in which she urged women to turn out at the election. The Duchess addressed viewers at the When All Women Vote Couch Party - an online event organized by non-profit organization When We All Vote, which was founded by Michelle Obama. Speaking directly to the volunteers and workers tuned into the summit, Meghan continued: 'It is fair to say that we are all very grateful for your work because we need it now really more than ever. 'When I think about voting and why this is so exceptionally important for all of us, I would frame it as: We vote to honor those who came before us and to protect those who will come after us because that's what community is all about and that's specifically what this election is all about,' she said. This week, feminist activist Gloria Steinem revealed that Markle had joined her in cold-calling Americans and urging them to vote. Last month, Markle (left) joined feminist icon Gloria Steinem for a 'backyard chat' in which she praised Biden's choice of Kamala Harris as a vice presidential nominee, saying she was 'so excited' to see a fellow biracial woman in that role Steinem told Access Hollywood: 'She came home to vote. The first thing we did, and why she came to see me, was we sat at the dining room table where I am right now and we cold-called voters.' 'Said 'hello I'm Meg' and 'hello I'm Gloria' and 'are you going to vote?' That was her initiative.' Markle has also told Steinem she was 'so excited' to see fellow mixed-race woman Kamala Harris nominated for vice president, in another strong hint that she is backing the Democratic ticket. 'I'm so excited to see that kind of representation,' she said. 'You know, for me, being biracial, growing up, whether it was a doll or a person in office, you need to see someone who looks like you in some capacity. 'As many of us believe, you can only be what you can see. And in the absence of that, how can you aspire to something greater than what you see in your own world? I think maybe now we're starting to break-through in a different way.' Many took the Duke and Duchess' comments in the recorded video message for Time 100 as an indication of their support for Democratic candidate Joe Biden (right) and his vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris (left) who Markle had praised in an earlier video Meanwhile, Markle has also taken in voter appeals, at which she made a bold plea to women across the US to take part in the 2020 presidential election, speaking out about the need for 'change' at an online voter summit, while telling participants: 'If we aren't part of the solution, we are part of the problem.' Before marrying Prince Harry in 2018, Markle was no stranger to politics, ridiculing then-presidential candidate Donald Trump during a 2016 appearance on The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore. She said Trump was 'misogynistic and divisive' and indicated her support for Hillary Clinton. Harry is a friend of former president Barack Obama, interviewing him on a guest-edited episode of BBC Radio 4's Today Programme in 2017. Harry is a friend of former president Barack Obama who he interviewed on a guest-edited episode of BBC Radio 4's Today Programme in 2017. Obama is also a supporter of the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for injured veterans created by the Prince Both Harry and Markle are said to enjoy a friendly relationship with the Obamas. Harry is seen here with former first lady Michelle Obama during the 2016 Invictus Games, which were held in Florida 'Part of my role and part of my job is to shine a spotlight on issues that need that spotlight, whether it's people, whether it's causes, issues, whatever it is,' Harry said at the time. 'So I will continue to play my part in society and do my job to the best of my abilities so that I can wake up in the morning and feel energised.' Despite the Obama friendship, the couple avoided a constitutional row by inviting neither the Obamas nor the Trumps to their 2018 wedding at Windsor Castle. Earlier this year, two Russian pranksters said they had duped the Duke of Sussex into criticising Trump in a phone call where they posed as climate activist Greta Thunberg. 'I don't mind saying this to you guys, I think the mere fact that Donald Trump is pushing the coal industry so big in America, he has blood on his hands,' Harry allegedly said. Buckingham Palace did not confirm or deny the authenticity of the call. When the Michigan Supreme Court issued an order on Friday knocking out the legal underpinnings of Gov. Gretchen Whitmers emergency orders, the governor said they remained in effect temporarily. On Monday, she filed a motion asking the court to confirm whether that is the case. We need this transition period to protect the 830,000 Michigan workers and families who are depending on unemployment benefits to pay their bills and put food on the table, and to protect Michiganders everywhere who are counting on their leaders to protect them, Whitmer said in a statement Monday. The court, opining on a federal case in which a judge had asked for state input, said in a Friday ruling the governor had no authority to declare a state of emergency under the 1976 Emergency Management Act or the 1945 Emergency Powers of the Governor Act, the latter of which the court found unconstitutional. Related: Gov. has no authority to continue state of emergency, Michigan Supreme Court rules Whitmer had been using the state of emergency she declared under the two laws to issue executive orders that put restrictions on things like business operations, gathering limits and personal movement as the state grappled with the coronavirus pandemic. When the courts ruling came out, she said the orders remained in effect for 21 days under a court rule. The court rule states: Unless otherwise ordered by the Court, the timely filing of a motion for rehearing postpones issuance of the Courts judgment order until the motion is either denied by the Court or, if granted, until at least 21 days after the filing of the Courts decision on rehearing. Whitmer spokesperson Tiffany Brown on Friday said the governors legal team was confident in its position that the emergency declaration and the orders that rest upon it are valid for 21 days. In the legal filing on Monday, Whitmers legal team raised the possibility that they actually continue for 28 days under a different rule, which states: If a motion for rehearing is not timely filed under MCR 7.311(F)(1), the clerk shall send a certified copy of the order or judgment to the Court of Appeals with its file, and to the trial court or tribunal that tried the case with its record, not less than 21 days or more than 28 days after entry of the order or judgment. But others have since cast doubt on whether executive orders with unconstitutional underpinnings really continue at all. Patrick Wright is vice president for legal affairs at the Mackinac Center and director of the Mackinac Center Legal Foundation, which brought the underlying federal suit over medical procedures the governors orders at one point barred. He said while the 21-day court rule does exist, Thats debatable, in this case, because we didnt come up through the Michigan court system. And its somewhat beside the point, he said, since theres not an avenue through which the executive orders can be enforced in the meantime. There is a question as to whether or not the governor is correct, legally, Wright said. But even if she is it really doesnt matter for this reason: nobody is going to arrest somebody off of something the Supreme Court says is unconstitutional. Nobody is going to prosecute off of something the Supreme Court says is unconstitutional. Thats certainly the case for the states top law enforcement official, Attorney General Dana Nessel, whose press secretary Ryan Jarvi issued a statement on Sunday saying she would no longer enforce the governors executive orders. In light of the Supreme Courts decision on Friday, the Attorney General will no longer enforce the Governors Executive Orders through criminal prosecution. However, her decision is not binding on other law enforcement agencies or state departments with independent enforcement authority," Jarvi said. "Its her fervent hope that people continue to abide by the measures that Governor Whitmer put in place - like wearing face masks, adhering to social distancing requirements and staying home when sick - since theyve proven effective at saving lives. If it werent for the Governors actions, countless more of our friends, family and neighbors would have been lost to COVID-19. We can respect both the courts decision and the advice of medical experts by continuing with these important measures voluntarily. Asked on Monday whether that meant Nessel was taking the position that the 21-day rule did not apply, Jarvi said we have nothing further to say at this point. He said his Sunday comment to Crains Detroit Business indicating the AG did believe the 21-day rule applied and was just choosing not to exercise her prosecutorial discretion during that period is still accurate. Attorney Micheal J. Huff with Mika Meyers in Grand Rapids, who advises corporate clients on their coronavirus response, said unfortunately there wasnt a clear answer on whether the orders remain in effect for 21 days. Its a good question. Thats probably the best answer, Huff said. He described the EOs as having no teeth in the current legal landscape, since it would be difficult to enforce an order the court has already said is unconstitutional. Whitmer and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Robert Gordon filed the motion seeking clarification the order wouldnt go into effect until Oct. 30, and another motion for immediate consideration. If it goes into effect immediately, according to the governors office, people would lose access to expanded unemployment benefits and important health and safety measures would be discontinued. The Supreme Courts ruling raises several legal questions that we are still reviewing. While we are moving swiftly, this transition will take time, said Gordon in a statement Monday. He said the governor and MDHHS, which has independent statutory authority during epidemics, would continue using every tool possible to keep Michigan families safe. COVID-19 PREVENTION TIPS: In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus. Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible. Use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and carry hand sanitizer with you when you go into places like stores. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has also issued executive orders requiring people to wear face coverings over their mouth and nose while in public indoor and crowded outdoor spaces. See an explanation of what that means here. Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. For more data on COVID-19 in Michigan, visit https://www.mlive.com/coronavirus/data/. Read more on MLive: Gov. has no authority to continue state of emergency, Michigan Supreme Court rules Whitmer vehemently disagrees with Supreme Court ruling, says emergency orders remain in place for 21 days UP moves back a phase as Gov. Whitmer regresses a region for the first time 10 Michigan organizations fined for not taking COVID-19 precautions H undreds of students have been plunged into self-isolation after two more universities were hit with major coronavirus outbreaks totalling 850 cases. Some 474 students and five staff have tested positive at the University of Sheffield, while 380 cases have been logged at Manchester University. Meanwhile, Sheffield Hallam University told students on Monday night more classes are shifting online for a fortnight after 373 cases were recorded over the past two weeks, including 127 last weekend. They are the latest campuses to be rocked with outbreaks after 770 students tested positive at Northumbria University on Friday and thousands were sent into lockdown at Manchester Metropolitan and Glasgow universities. Around 70 universities have experienced outbreaks over the past three weeks, with more than 4,000 students in self-isolation. At Sheffield University, a further 171 student cases and three among staff were confirmed over the weekend, bringing the campus total to 474 students and five staff since September 28, when recording began. Sheffield University is the latest to be hit with a huge outbreak / Ewan Somerville At the University of Manchester 382 students and staff tested positive in the ten days between September 21 and September 30, the institutions latest available data shows. Manchester now has the highest rate of cases in England, having recorded 2,740 cases in the week to October 1. This equates to 495.6 cases per 100,000 people, up from 223.2 in the previous week, with many cases attributed to the citys large student population. At the nearby Manchester Metropolitan University, 1,700 students were told to self-isolate in their halls last week, guarded by security and police, after 127 cases. Some complained of prison-like conditions, dubbing the campus HMP MMU. Students in Manchester have been placed in lockdown / Getty Images Unlike Manchester, Sheffield is not currently under any local lockdown curbs. Public Health England has flagged the South Yorkshire city as an area of enhanced support on its watchlist, one tier beneath lockdown, after its seven-day infection rate rose from 91.8 per 100,000 people to 233.1. Northumbria University has had the largest known campus outbreak so far, with 770 student cases - 78 of them symptomatic. The University and College Union is balloting lecturers for strike action there as it steps up calls for all teaching to shift online. A Sheffield University spokesperson said staff would be contacting students self-isolating to check their welfare and offer practical and emotional support. Manchester Universitys vice-chancellor, Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, said the rising cases were worrying and a cause for concern. She added that no halls were in lockdown and food, laundry, prescription and welfare support would be given to those self-isolating. With Arizona beginning early voting and sending out mail ballots this week, Mr. Trump is running out of time to improve his standing in a state that last supported a Democrat for president in 1996. Mr. Biden is being propelled by women, younger voters and Hispanic people, a coalition of the ascendant constituencies reshaping the politics of a state that Mr. Trump carried by about three and a half points in 2016. Mr. Biden is winning women by 18 points and trailing Mr. Trump by only two points among men. Among likely Hispanic voters, who are expected to make up about 20 percent of Arizonas electorate, Mr. Biden is overwhelming the president, capturing 65 percent to Mr. Trumps 27 percent. In a sign of a brewing suburban backlash against the president, Mr. Bidens lead in Maricopa County, the Phoenix-anchored population hub of the state, matches his statewide advantage. Hes leading by nine points in the county, which accounts for over 60 percent of the states population. Its highly difficult to win Arizona without winning Maricopa, which Mr. Trump captured by three points in 2016. The presidents standing with female voters and independents in the state has plunged since his victory four years ago, and, significantly, there appears to be far less interest in third-party candidates this year. GoFundMe Three children are left without a mother after watching their father allegedly beat her to death in what Oklahoma officials are calling a case of domestic violence. Early Wednesday morning, Oklahoma County authorities responded to a 911 call reporting a disturbance at a Spencer home. Upon arrival, authorities found the body of 34-year old Shawntae Lynn Brown inside the house, according to an Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office news release. Also inside the home was Shawntae's husband, Joshua Christian Brown, 34, and their three children. In a statement to police, Joshua Brown allegedly admitted to punching and strangling his wife and that he "went too far," according to a criminal complaint obtained by KOCO. It was very obvious that a violent crime had happened in that house, Mark Myers, a spokesperson for the Oklahoma County Sheriffs Department, told KFOR. The couple's children, ages 7, 14, and 15, were interviewed, and one of them reportedly told investigators that, hours before his mother's death, he saw his father beat her with a handgun, a shoe, a belt and a flag pole, according to KFOR. Deputies say they found evidence throughout the house supporting the child's claims, including large amounts of blood, parts of the drywall that had been punched or kicked in, and a semi-automatic handgun that was allegedly used to hit Shawntae so hard, part of it was broken and covered with blood and hair, according to the complaint. It was just a very gruesome scene," Myers said, KFOR reports. 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. The child also allegedly told police that, after their mother's death, his father forced him and his siblings to clean up their mother's blood and instructed them not to tell anyone about what happened. Investigators found evidence consistent with aggravated domestic assault and battery, Shawntae's body was covered in bruises and lacerations. Story continues "This traumatic act of VIOLENCE has left these children and the family of Shawntae Smith deeply hurt and at a lost," the victim's family wrote on a GoFundMe page. "At this time we are asking for any support big or small!" So far, the page has raised $4,300 of its $10,000 goal. Over the weekend, Shawntae's family spoke out in honor of their loved one. My sister meant the world to me, and I didnt know any of this was even going on, Shawntae's sister, Sheila Smith, told KOCO. Beautiful soul. You know, that was my older sister, but Im the protector. The couple's children are in the custody of the Department of Human Services but may be released to their family. Joshua Brown was taken into custody on suspicion of first degree murder and domestic violence. He remains in Oklahoma County Jail, according to the sheriff's office. It is unclear whether he has an attorney. If you are experiencing domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, or go to thehotline.org. All calls are toll-free and confidential. The hotline is available 24/7 in more than 170 languages. Advertisement Protesters marched to Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos' palatial Beverly Hills mansion to demand the company address environmental and labor issues that came to a head during the pandemic. Saturday saw a coalition of labor and environmental activists gathered at Will Rogers Memorial Park on Sunset Boulevard to decry Bezos and his multi-billion dollar e-commerce empire during 'The Wrong Amazon is Burning' event. The Congress and Essential Workers, a group of current and former Amazon warehouse employees, organized the rally and it was spearheaded by Chris Smalls of Staten Island, New York. Smalls, a former Amazon warehouse staffer, was fired from his position in March after he organized a protest over what he described as a lack of PPE and hazard pay amid the COVID-19 pandemic. 'We demand that Jeff Bezos and the rest of the billionaire class pay their fair share to deal with the climate crisis,' TCOEW said in a statement, per Patch. 'We are calling for a decent living wage of $30/hour minimum for all Amazon employees, Medicare and childcare for all, and the right to unionize without fear of retaliation. These are just a few of the issues that we feel billionaires like Jeff Bezos, who makes nearly $4,000 a second, can absolutely help relieve or resolve.' Scroll down for video Hundreds of protesters fighting for labor rights and environmental reform at Amazon marched to CEO Jeff Bezos' $165million mansion in Beverly Hills, California Some of the demonstrators at 'The Wrong Amazon is Burning' rally were there in support of Amazon making environmental reforms to its business practices Pictured: A demonstrator holds a sign during a protest prior to a march to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos' mansion to lobby for higher wages, the right to unionize and a series of reforms in the way the giant company handles the COVID-19 crisis A member of Red Rebel Brigade Manifesto performs during a protest prior to a march to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos' mansion in Beverly Hills The crowd of demonstrators who shouted 'f*** Bezos,' who's worth $185billion, were joined by climate activist groups Sunrise Movement and Extinction Rebellion. Demonstrators who donned face masks hoisted signs that read 'f*** Bezos,' 'your greed is killing us,' 'abolish billionaires' and 'share with your country!' Other signs urged Bezos to consider environmental changes, including one that said 'there is no planet B' and 'science not silence.' At one point, members of the artivist troupe, Red Rebel Brigade Manifesto, wore red ensembles during a performative piece aimed at highlighting the global environmental crisis. As the group of determined protesters drew near Bezos' mansion, they chanted 'tax Bezos' while someone played the drums. The group of protesters gathered outside of Jeff Bezos' $165million mansion in Beverly Hills with signs reading 'f*** Bezos' and a banner calling for more stringent taxes on the billionaire Demonstrators who donned face masks hoisted signs that read 'f*** Bezos,' 'your greed is killing us,' 'abolish billionaires' and 'share with your country!' Demonstrators march to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos' mansion to lobby for higher wages, the right to unionize and a series of reforms in the way the giant company handles the COVID-19 crisis Chris Smalls, pictured in front of Bezos' mansion: 'Destroying small businesses, destroying working class people, destroying lower class people. Enough is enough' Once the group arrived to Bezos' grand front gate, Smalls used a bullhorn to rally the crowd and declared 'enough is enough.' 'Destroying small businesses, destroying working class people, destroying lower class people. Enough is enough,' Smalls said. 'We're tired, we're done, and I want to say this...f*** Jeff Bezos!' After Smalls' dismissal, Amazon officials said he was fired for 'violating social distancing guidelines and putting the safety of others at risk.' But Smalls asserted that it was retaliation for organizing a workers protest. In the memo obtained by Vice News, top Amazon executives planned to smear 31-year-old Smalls, a management assistant, after he spearheaded a walkout of several employees on March 30 over coronavirus safety fears. The top bosses referred to Smalls as 'not smart' and discussed placing him as the face of the workers' walkout. 'He's not smart, or articulate, and to the extent the press wants to focus on us versus him, we will be in a much stronger PR position than simply explaining for the umpteenth time how we're trying to protect workers,' wrote Amazon General Counsel David Zapolsky. Jeff Bezos (left) owns a $165million mansion in Beverly Hills (right), which sits behind a large gate in an affluent part of the city Sunday's protest comes after Amazon revealed nearly 20,000 employees have tested positive for COVID-19 and ahead of the company's annual Prime Day In the memo, which took place at a day meeting and included CEO Jeff Bezos, Zapolsky's notes reportedly show executives mapping how to navigate bad press of Smalls' firing. They allegedly wanted to make Smalls the center of Amazon's narrative about worker safety. Zapolsky wrote: 'We should spend the first part of our response strongly laying out the case for why the organizer's conduct was immoral, unacceptable, and arguably illegal, in detail, and only then follow with our usual talking points about worker safety. 'Make him the most interesting part of the story, and if possible make him the face of the entire union/organizing movement.' The memo allegedly showed executives considering using Smalls to discredit the company's labor movement. Pictured: A promotional flyer for 'The Wrong Amazon is Burning' event held on Sunday Members of the artivist troupe, Red Rebel Brigade Manifesto, wore red ensembles during a performative piece aimed at highlighting the global environmental crisis Signs are set up at Will Rogers Memorial park in Beverly Hills prior to a demonstration against Amazon on Sunday as people demand Jeff Bezos make labor and environmental reforms Sunday's protest came after the recent revelation that nearly 20,000 Amazon workers in the United States have tested positive for COVID-19, per a blog post. And ahead of Amazon's annual Prime Day, in which the company offers discounted sales and lowered prices on various items. 'Employees are not going to be treated fairly and going to have mandatory overtime and have no breaks for the next two months into December,' said Jordan Flowers, an Amazon warehouse worker from Staten Island, per CNet. Although Prime Day has been used to highlight consumer perks, it's often a hectic time for warehouse employees who've complained of the overwhelming workload. Prime Day protest have previously been held in places like New York City, Seattle and across Europe. 'Cancel your Prime memberships, order less on Prime Day week and give us time to be prepared because peak season is hectic,' said Flowers, in reference to the holiday season. 'We're doing 50 or 60 hours a week with one or two days off.' In addition to the protest, TCOEW released a media statement that outlined a number of demands from the group. 'Amazon must be transparent and honest about the number of cases they have in their facilities,' one demand said. Other requests included securing a $2-an-hour hazard pay increase and paid leave until test results are confirmed. LANSING, Mich., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Health Management Associates (HMA) announced today that Chief Operating Officer Douglas (Doug) L. Elwell will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer, effective Nov. 1. Elwell has been HMA's Chief Operating Officer (COO) since February when he rejoined the firm after serving as the Illinois Medicaid director. Charles J. (Chuck) Milligan will join HMA Nov. 1 as the firm's COO. Marilynn Y. Evert, HMA's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the last 11 years, will continue her 21-year career with the firm as vice chairman and senior advisor. During his first tenure with HMA, Elwell was a principal and managing principal in the Indianapolis office from July 2003 through October 2014. Much of his career, prior to joining HMA, was dedicated to leading hospital systems in roles as CEO, COO, and CFO. More recently, Elwell was deputy chief executive officer for finance and strategy for the Cook County Health and Hospitals System from November 2014 until early 2019. "Doug's breadth and depth of experience across programs and providers in the publicly funded healthcare sector, in addition to his firsthand knowledge of HMA, make him the ideal person to serve as our next CEO," said Jay Rosen, president and founder of HMA. "Doug is a proven leader, a creative thinker and problem-solver, and brings great energy and passion to the work we do with our clients every day." Milligan, a healthcare leader who has made significant contributions in both the public and private sectors, has been working as a Medicaid and Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (DSNPs) consultant for states, foundations, associations, and others. The United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) appointed Milligan a commissioner to the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) in January 2015, and appointed him vice chairman in May 2019. Milligan has served as the Medicaid director for two states, New Mexico and Maryland. In Maryland, he launched the Affordable Care Act health insurance exchange and implemented the expansion of Medicaid. While leading the New Mexico Medicaid program, Milligan spearheaded its conversion from fee-for-service to managed care and launched the CHIP program. Most recently, Milligan was CEO for UnitedHealthcare's Community Plan in New Mexico. He also served as interim CEO for UnitedHealthcare's Community Plan in Maryland and national vice president for UnitedHealthcare's DSNP Product. Milligan's career includes having been senior vice president of Enterprise Government Programs at Presbyterian Healthcare Services and executive director of The Hilltop Institute at University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He began his career as an attorney practicing healthcare law in California. Founded in 1985, HMA is an independent, national research and consulting firm specializing in publicly funded healthcare and human services policy, programs, financing, and evaluation. Clients include government, public and private providers, health systems, health plans, community-based organizations, institutional investors, foundations, and associations. With 22 offices and over 225 multidisciplinary consultants coast to coast, HMA's expertise, services, and team are always within client reach. For more information about HMA, visit https://www.healthmanagement.com/. SOURCE Health Management Associates Related Links https://www.healthmanagement.com Delhi HC refuses to stay release of movie 'Nyay: The Justice', purportedly based on Sushant Singh Rajput's lif Sushant Singh Rajput Death Anniversary: A Timeline of the of events that have transpired so far Relief for Rhea Chakraborty, Court allows de-freezing of actress' bank accounts after a year At least 6 members of Sushant Singh Rajputs family killed in road accident in Bihar Sushant Singh Rajput Case: 'Investigation is still on, all aspects are being looked meticulously' India oi-Deepika S Mumbai, Oct 05: Days after the All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) ruled out the possibility of the murder of Sushant Singh Rajput, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday said that its investigation is "still continuing and all the aspects are being looked meticulously". 'CBI investigation related to the death of Sushant Singh Rajput is still continuing and all the aspects are being looked meticulously," said Spokesperson, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The AIIMS medical board on Saturday stated that Rajput died by suicide and it was not a murder. "There was no injury on the body other than that of hanging. Also, there was no mark of struggle and scuffle. The ligature mark on the neck was consistent with hanging," AIIMS' forensic chief Dr Sudhir Gupta had said on Saturday. The Mumbai police's probe stands vindicated with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) ruling out murder in the actor Sushant Singh Rajput case, city police commissioner Param Bir Singh said on Saturday. Some people with "vested interests" targeted Mumbai police without knowing anything about the investigation, he told PTI. Reacting to the news, Singh said the city police's probe was professional, and doctors at the Cooper Hospital in the city who performed autopsy had also done their job thoroughly. "We all stand vindicated by these findings of AIIMS," the police commissioner said. The Supreme Court had upheld transfer of the FIR lodged by Bihar police in the Rajput case and not the Mumbai police's investigation, Singh said. Shiv Sena's Saamana slams Sushant Singh Rajput, calls him a 'characterless' person "The court didn't find any fault with our investigation," he said. Hathras Case: UP Police files 19 FIRs, ink thrown at AAP MP Sanjay Singh | Oneindia News Singh further said that the city police had submitted investigation report to the apex court in a sealed cover and it was seen by only six persons - the investigating officer, senior police inspector, deputy commissioner of police, commissioner of police, advocate general of the state and the judge. "Without knowing anything about our investigation and without having seen our report some vested interests criticized our investigation," he said. Rajput (34) was found hanging at his flat in Mumbai on June 14. A section of media had hinted that it could be a murder. The CBI had taken over the probe from Bihar Police into the alleged abetment to suicide case filed by the actor's father K K Singh in Patna against Rajput's girlfriend Rhea Chakraborty and her family. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 13:19 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4927586 1 National Indonesian-Hospital-Association,hospitals,COVID-19,pandemic,Moeldoko,Ganjar-Pranowo,controversy Free The Indonesian Hospital Association (PERSI) has expressed dismay over the governments suggestion that some health facilities across the country had used COVID-19 diagnoses for profit, noting that it would only further erode public trust in the countrys healthcare system amid the ongoing coronavirus crisis. PERSI chairman Kuntjoro Adi Purjanto said such a statement could only serve to stigmatize health workers sincere efforts to treat coronavirus patients and prevent further deaths as the pandemic continues unabated. [The claim] could massively influence public trust in hospitals and betray health workers unwavering dedication, he said in a written statement issued on Sunday, as quoted by kompas.com. Furthermore, the bold claim, as it was not supported by any data or evidence, could help create a misleading narrative that cast hospitals in an unfavorable light, he added. Instead of making tone-deaf statements, Kuntjoro encouraged the government to make constructive criticism and to bolster its support of hospitals. PERSI [] is open to collaboration with other stakeholders to improve the healthcare system, including COVID-19 treatment, he said. Read also: COVID-19 deaths 'redefinition' prompts pushback - National The controversial claim was made by Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko following a meeting with Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo in Semarang on Thursday. Moeldoko conveyed his skepticism regarding the number of fatalities declared to have been caused by or linked to the coronavirus disease, claiming that a redefinition should be in order to avoid loopholes that could be exploited to the benefit of certain parties. Not all deaths are caused by COVID-19, he said. This needs to be clarified. Dont let this benefit those who seek profit from the [medical] definition. Ganjar supported Moeldokos claim, saying that false COVID-19 diagnoses had been made in Central Java. Such a thing has happened in Central Java. There were people diagnosed for COVID-19 and then died before their test results came back, he said. It turned out that their test results came back negative. It was unfortunate, [] we need to address this issue. (rfa) Work on a massive mixed-use development across Broadway from the Pearl complex is expected to start soon. GrayStreet Partners wants to convert over 20 acres it has amassed in the fast-changing Government Hill neighborhood into a blend of multifamily housing, retail and hospitality space, offices and outdoor plazas. The San Antonio firm is teaming up with Midway, a Houston company that developed CityCentre and GreenStreet there along with other mixed-use projects. The 1.6 million-square-foot development bounded roughly by Broadway, Grayson, Casa Blanca and Oleander streets is being called Broadway East, according to a recent presentation to the Midtown Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone board. It is expected to cost $560.8 million and will be constructed in phases over a decade. The first phase will include office and retail space and a 380-unit multifamily complex. This is a total transformation of the area, Peter French, GrayStreets director of development, told the board. On ExpressNews.com: W Hotel in the works for downtown San Antonio GrayStreet plans to request a phased TIRZ and Chapter 380 agreement of $20.5 million. The TIRZ reimburses developers for public improvements, paid for out of property tax revenue. Infrastructure upgrades for Broadway East will include new streets, bike lanes, sidewalks, drainage and other infrastructure work for Broadway East, according to the presentation. The firm plans to extend Pearl Parkway into Government Hill. GrayStreet plans to ask for $8.9 million for the first phase of the project. The goal is to have an agreement for the TIRZ board to consider before the end of the year. The developers want to begin the infrastructure work this fall, French said. Theres been a significant amount of disinvestment in this area over the preceding decades, so we have literally crumbling sidewalks when they exist, he said. It has to be improved top to bottom. The firm predicts tax revenue including property, sales and hotel occupancy taxes from 2020 through 2030 will total $163 million. It also expects Broadway East to create about 9,000 construction-related jobs and support 2,600 jobs when finished. French said rent increases on a percentage of apartments at Broadway East will be capped based on the Consumer Price Index. He said the company also plans to build some smaller units in the $1,200 to $1,400 price range and to set up an annual fund to support affordable housing and community activities. On ExpressNews.com: Skyline: Competition focuses on downtown shade ideas Ramiro Gonzales, a Midtown TIRZ board member, noted that the reinvestment zones are increasingly being evaluated as potential solutions to mitigate displacement and affordable housing. Gonzales said he would be interested in a lower reimbursement for GrayStreet so more of the funds could be retained by the TIRZ and used for affordable housing programs. Lynn Knapik, another board member, asked whether the developers plan to work with the San Antonio Housing Authority or the San Antonio Housing Trust. French said no. He also said the firm doesnt plan to tear down any homes for its project, and four houses on its properties have been moved to preserve them. GrayStreet started buying properties around the Pearl over five years ago, understanding the tremendous value and opportunity that was present in the midtown district, French said. The Broadway East site includes about 14 acres GrayStreet bought from the San Antonio Independent School District. The firm also purchased Project MENDs downtown headquarters and donated land on the Northwest Side for the nonprofit medical equipment suppliers new home base. The Government Hill neighborhood is growing, as residents drawn to its historic homes and proximity to the Pearl move in. French cited Museum Reach, Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, colleges and universities in the area, the extension of Broadway and parks as factors in the areas appeal. On ExpressNews.com: GrayStreet is buying San Antonios former Lone Star Brewery complex Rose Hill, who leads the Government Hill Alliance Neighborhood Association, said the group supports the Broadway East project. It will bring green space, retail, jobs and economic development, which we desperately need, she said. This is going to enhance our neighborhood, Hill added. GrayStreet also is working on other projects in the urban core. The firm is building a 20-story tower at Broadway and Newell Ave. with a W Hotel location and office space. It also is renovating the San Antonio Light building for office and retail space and refurbishing the Grant and Kress buildings on Houston Street for co-working giant WeWork. GrayStreet purchased the former Lone Star Brewery complex this spring and is partnering with Midway on plans to turn the roughly 32-acre property into a mixed-use development. madison.iszler@express-news.net A senior Fianna Fail TD has urged the Government not to "blindly" accept the advice that the country should go into Level 5 lock-down. Barry Cowen says there needs to better efforts by everyone to comply with existing restrictions "rather than going nuclear just yet". He is among a string of Coalition TDs, including ministers, who have raised concern at the prospect of implementing the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) recommendation that the country go to Level 5 of the Government's 'Living with Covid-19' plan. Cabinet is meeting later today to consider the Nphet advice. With most of the country - with the exception of Dublin and Donegal - still at Level Two of the plan. Fianna Fail junior minster Niall Collins said people will question its credibility if there is a jump to Level 5 in "one fell swoop". The Limerick TD said his own county is currently at Level Two and asked: "What does it say about the plan if were jumping straight from two to five? "That doesnt seem logical." He told Independent.ie that the Government will make the decision but: "Therell have to be a rationale and a basis for it." Read More Meanwhile, Fine Gael junior minister Josepha Madigan urged Cabinet to consider the social and economic consequences of the move. She said she's sure they are aware of this but said: "This would be quite a draconian measure. "Public health comes first and its something that Cabinet will need to consider - but they need to take all of the factors into account." The Dublin Rathdown TD said if the country is to move to Level 5 the needs to be full transparency on the data and evidence. Ms Madigan said: "The why needs to be thorough interrogated." Laois Offaly TD Mr Cowen said: "If were brutally honest, as a people we could better adhere to existing restrictions as they stand. "Lets collectively put that right rather than going nuclear just yet." He said the Nphet recommendation about Level 5 came as "a great shock" and that the apparent leak last night "created a vacuum between then and now which has heightened fear both socially and economically." He said he expects the Cabinet to "robustly question and test" the recommendation before a decision is made. Mr Cowen added: "This is a seminal moment where Government cannot I believe blindly accept this advice outright. "I appreciate public health perspective but Government has a broader remit which must reflect social and economic perspective too." Fine Gael TD Fergus O'Dowd said he has "serious concerns" and wants to see the reasons Nphet are recommending Level 5. Expand Close Fergus ODowd TD / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Fergus ODowd TD He said his own county, Louth, has lower rates of the virus per 100,000 than other parts of the country and added: "if we go from Level 2 to Level 5 overnight it will have devastating impact on business, on families on work places." Kildare North Fianna Fail TD James Lawless described the recommended leap from Level 2 to Level 5 as "a bit of shock and awe from Nphet". Mr Lawless added: "I think it might have actually been counterproductive because I have said for a long time that as well as saving peoples health we need to win their hearts and minds. "You do that by explaining clearly what is happening, why its happening and when its happening." He was critical of how the information surfaced on a Sunday evening and said: "I think the country would recoil at the thought of going into level five." Mr Lawless cautioned that there is a need to balance public health advice around Covid-19 with considerations like the impact of restrictions on mental health and the general economic and social well-being of the population. Under Level 5 restrictions only essential retail outlets would be allowed to open. In relation to schools the Government's plan says recommendations would be "based on situation and evidence at time." The Government has previously said its intention would be to seek to keep schools open at all levels of the 'Living with Covid-19' plan. Green Party TD Neasa Hourigan said the NPHET advice "should be taken really seriously" but raised concern if schools were to be affected by any Cabinet decision. She said: "Nphets concern is to ensure capacity in our health service and the numbers are dangerously high over the last number of days. "We need to ensure that the HSE can cope with the numbers that its looking at and thats where our efforts should be focussed. But she cautioned that it would be "a very serious situation" if the schools were to close. The Dublin Central TD said: "I dont think anybody would take that decision lightly. "The Cabinet will be reviewing the advice from Nphet." She warned that: "Closing schools would be a very very difficult decision and that level of restriction would have a huge impact on the economy and peoples wellbeing." Tipperary Fianna Fail TD Jackie Cahill said that introducing Level 5 restrictions on his home county where infection rates for the virus remain low would be going "too far". He said: "With the lower levels in Tipperary, it is difficult to justify imposing Level 5 restrictions". Mr Cahill added: "Thankfully, the death rate has remained low. "We need to consider the economic and mental health costs of imposing full restrictions on the county at the moment. "Businesses cant afford to be closed when rates remain low... and as the evenings draw in, increased restrictions will have an impact on peoples mental health. He said: "This is especially in an area where rates have remained low and under control for a long time now. Level 5 restrictions in Tipperary would be too far". Indian Army chief General M.M. Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla on Monday finalised India's coastal shipping agreement with Myanmar in a meeting with its State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. It will further strengthen security ties between the two countries amid the Chinese aggression. India and China continue to remain locked in a military face-off along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh. On Monday, the Indian embassy in Myanmar said that Naravane and the Foreign Secretary along with Ambassador Saurabh Kumar called on the State Counsellor at Naypyitaw to discuss important bilateral issues. Sources said the meeting ahead of the Myanmar general elections, was to finalise the coastal shipping agreement for the launch of the Kaladan multi-modal project and discuss measures to strengthen security ties against China-backed insurgent groups. Myanmar will go to polls on November 8. The coastal shipping agreement will allow Indian ships to reach Mizoram via Sittwe Port on the Bay of Bengal and through the Kaladan river multi-modal link. The project, envisioned by the Vajpayee government, had been pending for the past 20 years, sources said. The two sides, sources said, also discussed security related issues and initiatives to block the India-Myanmar border to China-backed Indian insurgents and drug traffickers in Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh. The Paresh Baruah headed ULFA is based in Yunnan province of China. Sources said the top officials also discussed the return and rehabilitation of the Rohingyas refugees in Bangladesh and Myanmar. As part of India's contribution to help a friendly neighbour, Myanmar's fight against Covid-19, Shringla and Naravane handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to Aung San Suu Kyi, Ambassador Saurabh Kumar's office in Naypyitaw said. When I was a boy living in Boonville, North Carolina, population then about 600, I loved reading histories and biographies written for kids and would then entice my brother and our two neighborhood friends, Allen and Richard, into reenacting what I had absorbed from those stories. In the nearby fields and forests, we charged the Yankees at Gettysburg; we waded ashore at Normandy on D-Day; we built snow forts to serve as our Valley Forge; we stood alongside Davy Crockett, James Bowie, and William Travis at the Alamo. One occasion of such play-acting remains especially vivid in my minds eye. I was 9 years old and had learned, either at school or from my mothers calendar in the kitchen, that it was Columbus Day. It was October, of course, brisk and windy, and I stood on the brick wall surrounding our patio, the wind blowing on my face, and looked across the back yard to the woods beyond and pretended I was in the mast for Columbus, the sailor who first announced Land ahoy! Maybe I was a weird kid, but there it is. The Controversy Today, many of my childhood heroesRobert E. Lee, for example, or Theodore Rooseveltare under attack. Protesters tear down their statues and try to change the placenames honoring them, and some of our history books, teachers, and professors denigrate their accomplishments. Some castigate those famous men, who once served as my exemplars, as evil. Christopher Columbus (14511506) in particular draws the ire of these radicals. His discovery of the New World soon brought a flood of European immigrants to North and South America. Moreover, he brutalized, tortured, and killed natives of some of the places he visited, though historians continue to debate the extent of these atrocities. Columbus, some revisionists contend, and those who followed himthe Spanish, French, English, Portuguese, and Dutchbrought ruin to entire civilizations, and deserve repudiation and scorn. Statue of Christopher Columbus, by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, in the Elmwood Historic District of Rhode Island. The statue was removed on June 28, 2020. (Kenneth C. Zirkel CC BY-SA 3.0) Others take a more balanced approach to the Genoese explorer. In his book Columbus and the Age of Discovery, Zvi Dor-Ner, who produced the television series by the same name, wisely asks questions about the ways we might look at Columbus. Should we see his daring expedition as a discovery that allowed so many immigrants to escape poverty and religious persecution in Europe? Should we commemorate it as an encounter, where two peoples were forged into one? Or should we mourn that first voyage by Columbus as the beginning of an invasion? The book by Zvi Dor-Ner, who produced a television series by the same name, presents a balanced portrait of the explorer. The History Columbus earned his place in the history books the hard way. The son of a merchant, he rejected the offer to follow in his fathers footsteps, as was then customary, and was around 14 years old when he first took to the sea. Over the next two decades, he spent much time aboard various vessels, gaining enormous nautical experience as he sailed the Mediterranean and explored as far north as Britain and possibly Iceland and south along the coastline of West Africa. Once, he was in a naval battle in which his ship was sunk, forcing him to swim for hours to the shore using a boats paddle to remain afloat. For much of his life, Columbus struggled financially, retained and deepened his devout Catholic faith, taught himself several languages, and eventually became obsessed with the theory that Europeans could reach the East with its spices and gold by sailing west. Whether he dreamed up this idea on his own or heard tales from sailors who had reached such faraway islands, as many of his contemporaries believed, is uncertain, but he grew determined to test this hypothesis. Most of us learned the basics of the rest of this story in elementary school. With the financial help of another devout Catholic, the Spanish queen Isabella, Columbus, his crew, and three shipsthe Nina, the Pinta, and the Santa Mariaset sail across the Atlantic in search of the East and India, using the best navigational instruments of the time to guide them on their way. Eventually they made landfall, encountered the natives, whom Columbus called indios, and returned to Europe, where the Spanish monarchy declared Columbus Admiral of the Seven Seas and Viceroy of the Indies. An illustration depicting the fleet of Italian explorer Christopher Columbus departing from Spain on Aug. 3, 1492. (Kean Collection/Getty Images) Word quickly spread across the continent of these new lands. In Columbus: For Gold, God and Glory, political and business leader John Dyson writes, The only conceivable parallel in modern times is the return of the first men on the moon. Columbus made three more voyages to the New World, the second of which found him accused of playing the tyrant to some of the settlers and of cruelty to the natives. On his final trip across the Atlantic, he and some members of his crew were shipwrecked and remained stranded for more than a year on the island of Jamaica. The Holiday Though many countries celebrate some sort of day honoring Columbus, the first such celebration in the United States occurred in 1792 in New York City, the 300th anniversary of Columbuss first voyage. In 1892, President Benjamin Harrison urged Americans to honor the 400th anniversary through a proclamation encouraging people to honor Columbus and the four completed centuries of American life. In another 45 years, encouraged by Italian Americans, President Franklin Roosevelt officially made Columbus Day a federal holiday. Today, we observe that holiday on the second Monday in October. In more recent times, the arguments over whether and how to celebrate Columbus Day have grown acrimonious. Though it remains a federal holiday, some states dont recognize Columbus Day as an official holiday, while other states, like Hawaii and Oregon, have replaced it with Indigenous Peoples Day. The Man and His Legacy Undoubtedly, some European explorer would eventually have discovered these unknown lands, but it was Columbus who had the grit and the vision to lead the way. For better or for worse, his discovery radically changed world history, bringing about both a clash and a melding of cultures, ever-increasing international trade, and the modern world as we know it. Here was a man with a vision who possessed the capability of sharing that vision with others. Here was a leader who convinced doubtful followers, his sailors in particular, to continue their voyage long after most of them had given up hope of finding land. Here was a man of courage willing to follow his dream even unto death. Posthumous portrait of Christopher Columbus, 1519, by Sebastiano del Piombo. There are no known authentic portraits of Columbus. Metropolitan Museum of Art. (Public Domain) Dor-Ner sums up the man in this way: The story of Columbus is important because he is a thoroughly modern heroa man complex, imperfect, and fallible, who not only motivated history but was swept by it, and whose deeds bear little witness to his intentions. History is often the chronicle of unintended consequences; as such, it teaches us more about our limitations than about our greatness. The Mystery of the Man Before we pass moral judgment on Columbus, we might pause to consider the times in which he lived and the mystery of the human being. For everyone from king to peasant, life in the 15th century could be harsh, brutal, and short. A different set of values also prevailed. Actions we now eschew as immoral, such as slavery, torture, or colonization, were commonplace, and Columbus was a man of his time. While condemning those practices, we might also bear in mind our own recent past: a century of not one but two world wars, a century that also saw 100 million people murdered by communists and fascists. In many respects, Columbus the man remains a conundrum, like Winston Churchills description of Russia as a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma. Each of us who walks this planet fits that same description; we carry secrets known only to ourselves, even in this age of self-revelation, and Columbus is no exception. Before we condemn Columbus, we might remember, as Dor-Ner reminds us, that like the rest of us, he was complex, imperfect, and fallible. He was, in other words, a human being. One last comment: Come Oct. 12, 2020, the real Columbus Day, I intend to step out onto the deck behind my daughters house, look across the ocean of grass Ive mown weekly over the summer and into the woods beyond, and silently cry Land ahoy! Jeff Minick has four children and a growing platoon of grandchildren. For 20 years, he taught history, literature, and Latin to seminars of homeschooling students in Asheville, N.C., Today, he lives and writes in Front Royal, Va. See JeffMinick.com to follow his blog. The Azeris have been targeting the capital of pro-Armenian separatists for four days. The drama of the local population. Karabakh forces respond with offensive against an Azerbaijani airport. The role of Turkey. Journalists on the ground also targeted. Stepanakert (AsiaNews) - The capital of the self-proclaimed republic of Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh for the Armenians) has been subjected to intense bombing by Azerbaijani forces for four days, war correspondent Jonah Fisher tells AsiaNews. "It's terrible we've all been in the hotel basement since last night," Fisher says, noting that the attacks continued all morning: "I've seen women, the elderly and children abandon their homes in search of solid shelter. This is no longer a war of armies, but a systematic slaughter with sophisticated weapons. In recent days, Azerbaijan launched an attack to recover Karabakh, the Armenian majority enclave. It is located in Azerbaijani territory, but has been governed since 1994 - after a six-year conflict - by pro-Armenian authorities not recognized by the United Nations. Araik Harutyuinian, president of the separatist entity, reiterates the charge that Turkey is behind the military operations in Baku: "The Turkish and Azerbaijani involvement - he denounces - is a threat to our millennial survival as a nation". The splendid Stepanakert (55,000 inhabitants) is a devastated city. There are many dead and injured, and the imminent arrival of cold weather will aggravate the already difficult conditions of the displaced population. Red Cross regional director Martin Schuepp has urged the parties to the conflict to "respect the principles of international humanitarian law and take all necessary measures to ensure respect for and protection of civilian people and infrastructure". Igor Zhadanov, correspondent for RT (Russia Today), says that a hospital was also hit yesterday. According to local sources, the population centers of Karabakh are bombed with cluster bombs, banned by an international convention that entered into force in 2010. The separatist government claims that the cities of the region are also hit by Israeli-made drones and Turkish F -16s. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, accused by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of wanting to "restore the Ottoman Empire and complete the 1915 genocide against the Armenians", has made no attempt to hide his aims. Yesterday, in a speech in Konya, Erdogan stated that operations in occupied Karabakh will continue until its liberation: "Without the Armenian withdrawal from all Azerbaijani territory, there will be no ceasefire". Also yesterday, in retaliation against Stepanakerts shelling, separatist troops bombed military positions inside Ganja airport in northern Azerbaijan. According to the Armenian forces, recent attacks against Karabakh were launched from the facility. Baku says no military sites were hit in Ganja, only civilian targets. The Azerbaijani government has published a photo of the damage suffered by the local airport. According to Armenian sources, the presence of Turkish officers is clearly seen in it. The Azerbaijani journalist Zabil Makerramov explains the Baku authorities have sent soldiers differentnot of Turkish-Azerbaijani ethnicity to fight on the front line: "50% of the soldiers killed in the conflict against the Karabakh forces - he explains - belong to the Talish, Lezghi and Tat, minorities," all sent to the front along with Islamist mercenaries brought in from Syria. So far there are 28 dead among them. Journalists are not safe in Karabakh either. For Journalists Without Borders, this is a flagrant violation of the Geneva Convention. Yesterday a van with Russian envoys was targeted; Two days ago, two war correspondents of Lebanese TV LBCI, Edmond Sassine and Paul Bou Aoun, were hit by Azerbaijani drones: they had filmed the bombing of Baku against civilian targets in Marduni. Earlier, two French reporters were injured and transported to Paris for treatment. The world must be protected against "weaponisation of AI" by non-state actors, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Responsible AI for Social Empowerment (RAISE 2020) virtual summit on October 5. "It remains our collective responsibility to ensure trust in how AI is used. Algorithm Transparency is key to establishing this trust," PM Modi said. "Equally important is accountability. We must protect the world against weaponisation of AI by Non-State Actors," the Primer Minister added. PM Modi said \the "teamwork of AI with humans can do wonders for our planet". "We launched Responsible AI for Youth programme this year in April. Over 11,000 students from schools completed their basic course under this. Now they are building AI projects," PM Modi informed during his address, adding that a National Educational Technology Forum is being formed to create an e-Education unit. This, PM Modi said, will boost digital infrastructure, digital content and capacity. "I see a big role for AI in empowering agriculture, healthcare, education as well as creating next-generation urban infrastructure and addressing urban issues like reducing traffic jams, improving sewage systems. It can be used for making our disaster management systems stronger," PM Modi said. RAISE 2020 summit was organized by the Government of India in partnership with industry and academia. In June, India joined the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) as a founding member to support responsible and human-centric development and the use of AI. With this, India joined the league of leading nations and economies including the US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, and Singapore for the launch of the GPAI. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 13:36:37|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close LANZHOU, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Six people have been confirmed dead and 14 other injured, after a heavy-duty truck ran into a fair market on Monday in Minxian County, Dingxi City in northwest China's Gansu Province. Sources with the local police said five of the injured suffered severe injuries. The accident happened at 5: 45 a.m., when the driver identified as a villager in Xijiang Town in the county drove the runaway truck into the farm produce fair, causing the casualties. The injured have been hospitalized for treatment. The driver is now under police custody, and the cause of the incident is under investigation. The provincial emergency management department has sent a work group to the place for the investigation. Enditem New Delhi, Oct 5 : As the Covid-19 continues to rage, a silver lining has appeared amid the dark clouds of the pandemic. The national capital has witnessed a sharp decrease in the cases of Typhoid and Influenza in 2020. The hospitals have reported at least 50 per cent fewer cases of these two seasonal illnesses, the doctors said. Aakash Healthcare Super-Speciality Hospital in Dwarka said that they received only 50 patients so far who had Typhoid and Influenza in the last two months. The hospital stated that the count usually went up to 100 to 150 in previous monsoon seasons. "We are not receiving the cases of Typhoid that usually comes in this season," informed Vikramjeet Singh, senior consultant, department of internal medicine at the hospital. Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, also witnessed around 50 per cent fall in the cases related to Typhoid. However, the same situation was not reported in the cases of Influenza. "There has been a surge in flu (Influenza) cases recently, but again, the surge is expected during this season so not much variation from the routine," said Parul Kakkar, consultant, internal medicine, at the hospital. BLK Hospital in Rajendra Place, which also saw a notable decrease in Typhoid and Influenza cases, said that cases of Typhoid and Influenza decrease with the end of monsoon. However, they did not reach their peak this year. "During the monsoon season, normally the typhoid cases increase every year, which usually decreases by the end of this season. However, this was not the case this year," Rajinder Kumar Singal, senior director & head of the department of internal medicine at BLK. The doctors attributed two scenarios behind the fall in the cases of Typhoid and influenza. One is a newfound change in the lifestyle enforced by the Covid-19 pandemic where eating home-cooked food and maintaining an optimum level of hygiene have become an integral part of life. "During the current pandemic, everything around us is undergoing a change, including our lifestyle, eating habits and socialising etiquettes. Thankfully not every change is for the worse! The number of typhoid and hepatitis cases this year has decreased, and the full credit goes to our renewed respect and regard for the home-cooked "safe and healthy food ". Besides, the frequent hand washing that the public is now following also helped," said Kakkar. "People are avoiding outside food and have not been going to eateries. Also, school and colleges are closed too. Elderly people are avoiding the parks and outdoor activities," reasoned Pankaj Solanki who runs Dharmaveer Solanki Multi-Speciality Hospital in Rohini. Another reason behind the recorded fall in Typhoid and influenza cases is the less reporting due to fear induced by the Covid-19 outbreak. Doctors said people wish to avoid coming to hospitals. Also they relate the symptoms of the two seasonal illnesses with the COVID-19 disease. "They are worried that they will have to follow isolation or hospital admission if they are confirmed with the Covid-19. This fear is making them not report the cases of Typhoid and Influenza," said Singh. Solanki also said that people tend not to report the case as they relate the symptoms of the two viral illnesses, especially Influenza with the Covid-19 disease. "Most of the people who had symptoms did not come forward due to the fear of Covid-19 testing and mandatory isolation that follows. People are not reporting it as they are afraid of coming to the hospital as they assume the fever and other symptoms of Typhoid and Influenza are due to the Covid-19. So they are treating themselves at home," he added. The symptoms of Covid-19 are almost similar to the Typhoid and Influenza, particularly. In the Typhoid, people usually have a sustained fever (one that doesn't come and go) that can be as high as 103-104 degrees fahrenheit (39-40 degrees Celsius). Some people with typhoid fever or paratyphoid fever develop rash or rose-coloured spots. Cough and sore throat are also symptoms. Just like the SARS-CoV-2, which causes the Covid-19, Influenza also attacks the respiratory system -- nose, throat and lungs. Its symptoms include fever, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, aching muscles and shortness of breath. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text New Delhi: Stepping up the offensive, the Congress on Monday demanded the dismissal of the district magistrate for allegedly threatening the Hathras victim's family and asked why the SIT was continuing with its probe when a CBI investigation has been sought by the Uttar Pradesh government. The Congress also asked why a judicial probe should not be held to ascertain whether the body allegedly burnt by the cops in the middle of the night is of the 19-year-old woman who was allegedly raped and killed by four upper-caste men. "The Yogi Adityanath government must immediately dismiss the DM, who is on record, on a video threatening the family and he should not be given any other position till it is thoroughly investigated that at whose instructions and whose behest did the DM go to the victim's family and threatened them in the manner that he did," Congress spokesperson Sushmita Dev said. On Sunday, the Congress had demanded that the DM be suspended. Dev also said the family is demanding a judicial inquiry by a sitting judge of the Supreme Court and why such a probe is not being ordered. "It is crystal clear that from the date the young, helpless girl was raped, that all institutions within the state of UP, whether it is the SIT with senior officers are in cahoots to hush up this matter. "It is shocking that an SIT was set up after 14 days and after the media and the opposition leaders, specifically Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi met the victim's family in Hathras, as damage control they ordered a CBI inquiry," she told reporters. She said an important question that arises is that even though a CBI inquiry has been instituted, the central agency has not visited the village. "The SIT inquiry is still continuing on the ground," she alleged. The Congress leader said it is "heart breaking" that when the family of the victim is alleging that after the tragic incident of not allowing the family members to go through proper rituals at cremation service, they are now asking proof that the body that was hurriedly cremated was that the body of their daughter. "In the name of humanity, the family has demanded that if the body was of their daughter then they should be allowed to take the ashes for a dignified ritual, which is part of their custom and their culture. "We want to ask the Adityanath government that which of these demands is unjustified by the family? Should the DM not be dismissed and investigated? Should there not be a judicial inquiry? Why is the SIT still on the ground, when you have yourself ordered a CBI inquiry," she said. Dev asked what is it that the Adityanath government is hiding and why should a judicial inquiry not happen in this case. The Dalit woman from Hathras succumbed at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital to the injuries she suffered in the assault by four upper-caste men in her village in Hathras district on September 14. The four have been arrested. The incident triggered outrage across the country after TV footage showed that the local police cremated the body at night. Her family members alleged they were not allowed to bring the body home one last time, but police claimed they had the family's consent for the cremation. . '70 years back, Dalits used to be abused, scolded, slapped, but killing a Dalit was rare because a Dalit was somebody's property.' 'Now that they are free, they are facing violent attacks.' IMAGE: Bhim Army Chief Chandrashekhar Azad 'Ravan' with the Hathras victim's family at their home in Hathras, October 4, 2020. Photograph: Kind courtesy BhimArmyChief/Instagram "Every caste Hindu feels that the BJP has come to power too late to reverse the changes that have taken place in India in the last 70 years," Chandrabhan Prasad, a leading Dalit thinker, tells Rediff.com's Archana Masih. As a longstanding observer of the Dalit situation in India, what is most shocking about the Hathras incident? The Hathras atrocity cannot be seen in isolation. A similar horror has taken place in Balrampur near Gonda. The frustration of the upper castes has reached unimaginable limits. The upper castes of India are highly frustrated and angry at this point of time. You can see that in the upper caste BJP spokesmen and television anchors, barring a couple of exceptions. They are always seething with anger. The BJP came to power in 2014 and then in 2019, but caste Hindus feels the BJP has come to power too late to reverse the changes that have taken place in India in the last 70 years. Since 1947, upper castes owned all institutions -- they owned land, government jobs, education, they were doctors, teachers, journalists and had a monopoly over everything. The first break in that monopoly came when upper castes lost their land after zamindari was abolished. They lost monopoly over land and then in government jobs and then in the education sector. The upper castes had reconciled with this changed situation, but the BJP's victory in 2014 gave them hope that they might be able to reverse the changes that have taken place. But the victory in 2019 has actually not given them what they expected and hasn't brought the return of that old system. This has made them frustrated and angry. The upper castes are frustrated that they have been let down by democracy in India. Uttar Pradesh has an upper caste led-government for the first time since 2002. This upper caste is a different upper caste. There are upper castes in the Congress, Communist parties and other parties too, but this upper castes thought the 2014 victory as a mandate for upper caste rule where there is a great recall of the past. They had hoped that reservations would be ended and Dalits would return to work on their farms, but nothing like that has happened even after the repeat victory in 2019. This acute anger and frustration has created a social upheaval in India. What do you see as the reason for an increase in the attacks on Dalits during the lockdown? The attack on migrants was an upper caste onslaught because it was assumed that migrants would be either Dalits or Muslims. The apathy from the administration, the attack on them by the police, was an example of the frustration that the upper castes are undergoing. Democracy has disenfranchised the upper castes. Even if they have a successful child who drives a Mercedes and lives in California, they rue the fact that they have lost their social status. Blacks were not lynched in the US during slavery because they were somebody's slaves. They were owned by slave owners just like chickens or pigs. On January 1, 1863, when Abraham Lincoln declared slavery illegal and Blacks became free, the lynching of Blacks in public places started. When I speak to senior Dalits, I am told that 70 years back, Dalits used to be abused, scolded, slapped, but killing a Dalit was rare because a Dalit was somebody's property. Now that they are free, they are facing violent attacks. There are parallels between what was experienced by the Blacks in US and the Dalits. You have earlier said that Dalit youth are going through a jeans-t-shirt revolution, a dress code that is caste neutral, while earlier Dalits were not even allowed to wear a dhoti till their ankles. Is there a reaction to the changing status of Dalits? India is undergoing a counter-revolution. Upper castes are seething in anger that society is not reversing to their choice. Despite the presence of Mayawati, Dalits chose to support Narendra Modi post 2014. Do you think Dalits will move away from the BJP due to increased violence against them? Where is the proof that Dalits supported Modi? There is only 1% decline in Mayawati's vote. This is propaganda by the BJP. What impact is the Hathras tragedy going to have when Dalits cast their votes next time? Anti-Muslim rhetoric has outlived its shelf life. Now anti-Dalit actions will be used to polarise society between Dalits and non-Dalits and it will benefit the BJP. The BJP wants to be seen as an anti-Dalit party so that the rest of society goes with the BJP. Do you feel Mayawati has ceased to be an activist leader of the Dalits? Mayawati is living a retired life, I think. Will Chandrashekhar Azad of the Bhim Army be the new leader of Dalits in UP? He is evolving into that. Has the thinking become more casteist in UP under the current state leadership? That is why he (Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Ajay Singh Bisht aka Yogi Adityanath) was brought in. He was brought to assure the upper castes that your raj has come. How do you see these protests in the days to come? Will it help in bringing justice to the victim? What Blacks faced in America Dalits will face in India. That is a very depressing thought. Every counter-revolution has depressing moments. What is the way forward? The only hope for Dalits is to capture English language and Mathematics and create their own economy. The only way to discipline upper castes is for Dalits to become their employers. President has been in hospital since Friday evening (Getty Images) President Donald Trump has said he "understands" and has "learned a lot" about Covid-19 after a weekend in which he received supplemental oxygen, a cocktail of drugs and was hospitalised after testing positive for the disease. "Its been a very interesting journey. I learned a lot about Covid. I learned it by really going to school. This is the real school," said Mr Trump, 74, in a pre-recorded address from the Walter Reed Medical Center presidential suite. Mr Trump was helicoptered to the Maryland hospital on Friday after experiencing fever and a drop in his oxygen levels. "And I get it, and I understand it, and it's a very interesting thing, and Im going to be letting you know about it," he added, in a video uploaded to social media on Sunday. The White House was thrown into disarray last week when it was confirmed both the president and first lady, 50, had tested positive for coronavirus, which has claimed some 210,000 US lives and crippled the economy. It is unclear how the president might have contracted Covid-19, though he had been in close contact with aide Hope Hicks who tested positive for coronavirus on Thursday. With less than a month to go until election day, a number of the president's key allies have since tested positive for the illness. Calls are growing for the president's medical team to be more open and honest about his condition following a weekend of contradictory statements. Giving an update on Mr Trumps condition on Saturday, Dr Sean Conley said he was feeling well and in "exceptionally good spirits", a message that appeared far rosier than the one later given by the presidents chief of staff. Mark Meadows told reporters Mr Trumps vitals had been very "concerning" and that the next few days would be critical, leading to accusations that the president's medical team were not revealing the full picture. In a second update on Sunday, the president's doctors said he could be discharged on Monday despite having been given dexamethasone, a steroid that is usually only used on the sickest coronavirus patients. They also confirmed that Mr Trump's oxygen levels dropped twice, after avoiding questions on the issue the previous day. Story continues In Sunday's social media video the president vowed to greet supporters who had been waiting outside the hospital in support. Shortly afterwards, he was spotted in the back of his motorcade waving to fans, some of whom have been at the site for days offering support. While the president was wearing a face mask, questions will be raised over the safety of the excursion, with people diagnosed with coronavirus asked to quarantine for 10 days after first experiencing symptoms. Dr James P Phillips, a CNN media contributor and an attending physician at the Maryland hospital, attacked the president's political theatre as "insanity". "That presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of Covid-19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures," Dr Phillips said in a tweet. "The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play." Read more Donald Trump did not disclose a positive result from a rapid test for Covid-19 on Thursday Trump takes a brief car ride, ignoring own COVID infection Trump seizes on small election issues to spread concern Gowramma, mother of Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar on Monday said that the central agencies found nothing against his son during their searches and they "love" him as "they come again and again". "The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Income Tax (IT) and (ED) love my son, that's why they come again and again. Let them search and take whatever they want. They got nothing, let them arrest my son," she said. Earlier in the day, the recovered Rs 50 lakh in cash during the searches on premises of Shivakumar and brother DK Suresh, MP. The raids were conducted at Shivakumar's residence at Doddalahalli, Kanakapura and Sadashiva Nagar, in Bengaluru, apart from others. "Rs 50 lakh in cash have been recovered so far," sources in the said. The has registered a case against the Shivakumar and others on the allegations of acquisition of disproportionate assets. The searches were conducted on Monday at 14 locations - nine in Karnataka, four in Delhi, and one in Mumbai. The state government had given permission to probe corruption charges against Shivakumar to the CBI. (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.) It is of utmost concern that the UK Government is denying the rights to truth, justice and reparations to victims of serious offenses and their families, based on an arbitrary presumption that legal claims against British soldiers are vexatious and fallacious - UN UN human rights experts today called on the UK Parliament to reject a government bill they say would give British soldiers advance immunity for war crimes and crimes against humanity. They said the Overseas Operations (Service Personnel and Veterans) Bill, now before Parliament, violates the UKs obligations under international humanitarian law, human rights law and international criminal law, and protects British soldiers serving abroad from charges for serious international crimes, including unlawful killing and torture. There can be no excuse for unlawful killings or torture, the experts said. The universal prohibition against torture is absolute and non-derogable it is considered so important that it cannot be limited or suspended under any circumstances. Governments cannot lawfully grant impunity or otherwise decline to investigate and prosecute such crimes. By introducing a statutory presumption against prosecution and statutes of limitations, this bill undermines the absolute and non-derogable nature of the prohibition of torture and violates human rights law, as well as international criminal and humanitarian law. In the same manner, statutes of limitations should not be applied to acts constituting enforced disappearance, as it is considered a continuing offence as long as the perpetrators continue to conceal the fate and the whereabouts of persons who have disappeared and these facts remain unclarified. It is essential that domestic laws comply with international obligations, they said. The Overseas Operations Bill has cleared two of five steps necessary for passage by the lower house of Parliament, the House of Commons, and now is being given a line-by-line examination by the Public Bill Committee. We very much regret that the Government disregarded concerns raised by the UN Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, earlier in June, the experts said. In response, the British government said the bill would not prevent future prosecutions, an assertion the experts deemed to be unconvincing. The Bill limits the courts discretion to extend the period for claims of violations of the Human Rights Act by soldiers serving abroad, and would give only the Attorney General discretion to prosecute, and only in exceptional circumstances. Both these provisions are an alarming regression from the independence of the judiciary and the longstanding democratic principle of separation of powers, the experts said. They consider the bill particularly alarming in light of a 2018 parliamentary report that found evidence British Defence personnel had been involved in enforced disappearances, torture and ill-treatment of suspects as part of the U.S. detention and rendition programme. It also said the military had been intentionally negligent in investigating complaints of torture and ill-treatment during overseas deployments. Failing to investigate and prosecute the most serious crimes, including unlawful killing and torture, further deprives victims of their right to obtain justice and redress, the experts said. The government must not limit the time victims have to apply for remedy. It is of utmost concern that the UK Government is denying the rights to truth, justice and reparations to victims of serious offenses and their families, based on an arbitrary presumption that legal claims against British soldiers are vexatious and fallacious, they said. Chris Perez's signature hot sauce brand will be on H-E-B shelves next month. The musician launched Perez Pepper Sauce in November 2019. Selena fans who are familiar with the 1997 movie may remember the scene in which Perez, played by John Seda, pulls out a bottle of hot sauce from a holster strapped to his belt. The real Perez loves hot sauce, and the idea for the company came about when his business partner John Gomez noticed the musician was carrying chili peppers in his tote. RELATED: 'Orale, rewind' 'Selena' actor dies; former students ask for help with funeral expenses Now this November, fans will be able to shop the sauce at 150 H-E-B locations. "It is no doubt of one of our proudest moments," Gomez told mySA Monday. "I'm super proud of what Chris and I have accomplished in a short year with our business Tongues Ablaze LLC and the Perez Pepper Sauce Brand." Perez thanked H-E-B for welcoming his product to the grocery chain's "coveted shelf space." "Our hearts are filled with gratitude as big as Texas," he said, adding that having his own hot sauce brand was a "life-long dream." Perez, who was married to the Tejano legend Selena also threw in a "Me sieno muy...muy...excited,"reference to the 1997 biopic. Gomez was not immediately available to provide a list of which San Antonio H-E-B stores will carry Perez Pepper Sauce, but fans can start looking for the original and jalapeno flavors on Nov. 2. The sauce will also be available for online ordering to 46 states Madalyn Mendoza covers news and puro pop culture for MySA.com | mmendoza@mysa.com | @maddyskye Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico, Oct. 02, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With the goal of consolidating as a benchmark for infrastructure and real assets in Latin America, the CAXXOR company has opted to accelerate investments in the region and attract new capital for strategic projects. This was stated by Carlos Ortiz, CEO of the company who said that Latin America has great resources that could help them strengthen the project. We have a strong trend in transportation and energy in Latin America. Our region has overwhelming deficits, however, we want to contribute to the vision of a new world, in which our region has more and better maritime routes, with energy sufficiency and with the capacity, so that the logistics infrastructure can be complete and updated throughout the continent, "said Ortiz. Regarding Mexico, Carlos Ortiz pointed out that despite the legal changes regarding port control by the navy and the army, CAXXOR's plans have not been canceled. We continue with our projects in northern Mexico, it has even grown to become a more ambitious, and at the same time with our Pacific hub project in Colombia, is our flagship in the region, he explained. Carlos Ortiz, announced that in 2021, they will launch a shipping company that will serve the commodities industry, as well as maritime and financial services. He also added that this new shipping company will depend on the subsidiary CAXXOR Global Advisors, which will have an area specialized in research and advice for the oil and gas industry, in addition to the portfolio of vessels for maritime transport. The businessman explained that CAXXOR works with three subsidiaries, focused on liquid investments, assets and consulting, and currently they have practically total geographic coverage for Latin America. In this context, according to the Mexican Association of Shipping Agents (Amanac in spanish), Mexico is one of the most important economies in Latin American markets. And according to statistics from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), about 80% of world trade is transported through commercial shipments that move the world's food, energy and raw materials, as well as manufactured goods and components. In this context, the Mexican Cruise Association announced that this industry, severely affected by the health crisis, is preparing for the activation of activities, before the end of the year. Media Details Person Name - Daniel Caballero Company Name - CAXXOR Email - contacto@caxxor.com Phone Number - +5256117234 Website URL - https://Caxxor.com HOUSTON - (Oct. 5, 2020) - When you take a medication, you want to know precisely what it does. Pharmaceutical companies go through extensive testing to ensure that you do. With a new deep learning-based technique created at Rice University's Brown School of Engineering, they may soon get a better handle on how drugs in development will perform in the human body. The Rice lab of computer scientist Lydia Kavraki has introduced Metabolite Translator, a computational tool that predicts metabolites, the products of interactions between small molecules like drugs and enzymes. The Rice researchers take advantage of deep-learning methods and the availability of massive reaction datasets to give developers a broad picture of what a drug will do. The method is unconstrained by rules that companies use to determine metabolic reactions, opening a path to novel discoveries. "When you're trying to determine if a compound is a potential drug, you have to check for toxicity," Kavraki said. "You want to confirm that it does what it should, but you also want to know what else might happen." The research by Kavraki, lead author and graduate student Eleni Litsa and Rice alumna Payel Das of IBM's Thomas J. Watson Research Center, is detailed in the Royal Society of Chemistry journal Chemical Science. The researchers trained Metabolite Translator to predict metabolites through any enzyme, but measured its success against the existing rules-based methods that are focused on the enzymes in the liver. These enzymes are responsible for detoxifying and eliminating xenobiotics, like drugs, pesticides and pollutants. However, metabolites can be formed through other enzymes as well. "Our bodies are networks of chemical reactions," Litsa said. "They have enzymes that act upon chemicals and may break or form bonds that change their structures into something that could be toxic, or cause other complications. Existing methodologies focus on the liver because most xenobiotic compounds are metabolized there. With our work, we're trying to capture human metabolism in general. "The safety of a drug does not depend only on the drug itself but also on the metabolites that can be formed when the drug is processed in the body," Litsa said. The rise of machine learning architectures that operate on structured data, such as chemical molecules, make the work possible, she said. Transformer was introduced in 2017 as a sequence translation method that has found wide use in language translation. Metabolite Translator is based on SMILES (for "simplified molecular-input line-entry system"), a notation method that uses plain text rather than diagrams to represent chemical molecules. "What we're doing is exactly the same as translating a language, like English to German," Litsa said. Due to the lack of experimental data, the lab used transfer learning to develop Metabolite Translator. They first pre-trained a Transformer model on 900,000 known chemical reactions and then fine-tuned it with data on human metabolic transformations. The researchers compared Metabolite Translator results with those from several other predictive techniques by analyzing known SMILES sequences of 65 drugs and 179 metabolizing enzymes. Though Metabolite Translator was trained on a general dataset not specific to drugs, it performed as well as commonly used rule-based methods that have been specifically developed for drugs. But it also identified enzymes that are not commonly involved in drug metabolism and were not found by existing methods. "We have a system that can predict equally well with rule-based systems, and we didn't put any rules in our system that require manual work and expert knowledge," Kavraki said. "Using a machine learning-based method, we are training a system to understand human metabolism without the need for explicitly encoding this knowledge in the form of rules. This work would not have been possible two years ago." Kavraki is the Noah Harding Professor of Computer Science, a professor of bioengineering, mechanical engineering and electrical and computer engineering and director of Rice's Ken Kennedy Institute. Rice University and the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas supported the research. ### Read the abstract at https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2020/sc/d0sc02639e#!divAbstract. This news release can be found online at https://news.rice.edu/2020/10/05/deep-learning-gives-drug-design-a-boost/ Follow Rice News and Media Relations via Twitter @RiceUNews. Related materials: Kavraki Lab: http://www.kavrakilab.org Department of Computer Science: https://csweb.rice.edu George R. Brown School of Engineering: https://engineering.rice.edu Images for download: https://news-network.rice.edu/news/files/2020/10/1005_DRUGS-1-WEB.jpg A computational tool created at Rice University may help pharmaceutical companies expand their ability to investigate the safety of drugs. (Credit: Kavraki Lab/Rice University) https://news-network.rice.edu/news/files/2020/10/1005_DRUGS-2-WEB.jpg CAPTION: Lydia Kavraki. (Credit: Jeff Fitlow/Rice University) https://news-network.rice.edu/news/files/2020/10/1005_DRUGS-3-WEB.jpg CAPTION: Eleni Litsa. (Credit: Rice University) Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of Architecture, Business, Continuing Studies, Engineering, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. With 3,978 undergraduates and 3,192 graduate students, Rice's undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is just under 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for lots of race/class interaction and No. 1 for quality of life by the Princeton Review. Rice is also rated as a best value among private universities by Kiplinger's Personal Finance. New Delhi, Oct 5 : Apple continues to rule among aspirational India's non-metros when it comes to demand and supply of pre-owned phones, a new study revealed on Monday. While in the new smartphone market, Apple's market share is minimal in India, the opposite holds true for the pre-owned market. The iPhone contributes to 25 per cent of the demand and 21 per cent of supply on OLX. "The iPhone is followed closely by behemoths in the android ecosystem with Xiaomi generating 22 per cent of the demand and 18 per cent of the supply," according to OLX 'Pre-Owned Smartphone' study. South Korean brand Samsung controls 15 per cent of the demand and 17 per cent of the supply. OnePlus, Vivo, Oppo and Realme are extremely popular with consumers, especially across the budget, mid-segment and premium (One plus) price categories. All the four brands generate about 30 per cent of the demand and supply for pre-owned phones on OLX, the study mentioned. The overall demand for pre-owned phones has jumped by 61 per cent and supply has increased by 76 per cent during the period of lockdown 1 and post the unlock while demand has jumped by 44 per cent post unlock vs pre-Covid-19 lockdown period. With over 500 million internet and smartphone users, India now has about half the population accessing the internet. With 700 million users yet to be connected, smartphones, especially pre-owned ones will play an important role in driving India's internet population to over a billion in the coming years. "Covid-19 has accelerated the growth curve for pre-owned smartphones especially as financial constraints and uncertainty in the economy drive more people to come online in search of better livelihood opportunities, consuming content and staying connected," the study noted. (Newser) The Supreme Court began its new term Monday with a remembrance of "a dear friend and a treasured colleague," the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Chief Justice John Roberts paid tribute to Ginsburg as the court resumed its work via telephone because of the coronavirus pandemic. Roberts said the justices would hold a fuller memorial service for Ginsburg once they return to the courtroom. The term is so far short on high-profile cases, but that could change quickly because of the prospect of court involvement in lawsuits related to the election. The cases being argued over the next two weeks all had been scheduled for last spring but were postponed when the virus forced the court to shut down for a time. Details from the AP on what was decided on Monday and what's coming down the pike: The high court said Monday it wouldn't take the case involving Kim Davis, the former clerk of Rowan County, Ky., and two same-sex couples who'd sued her. Soon after the 2015 Supreme Court decision in which same-sex couples won the right to marry nationwide, Davis, a Christian who has a religious objection to same-sex marriage, stopped issuing all marriage licenses. That led to lawsuits against her. Davis had argued that a legal doctrine called qualified immunity protected her from being sued for damages by couple David Ermold and David Moore, as well as James Yates and Will Smith. Their case will now move forward, reports the AP. story continues below The Supreme Court is leaving in place a decision awarding the late John Steinbeck's stepdaughter $5 million in a family dispute over abandoned plans for movies of some of Steinbeck's best-known works. The high court said Monday it wouldn't take up the dispute involving the Nobel Prize-winning author's stepdaughter Waverly Kaffaga, his late son Thomas Steinbeck, and his daughter-in-law Gail Steinbeck. When he died, Steinbeck left the vast majority of his estate to Kaffaga's mother, Elaine, his third wife. In the case the Supreme Court declined to get involved in, the AP reports Kaffaga alleged that Thomas Steinbeck and his wife had continued to claim various rights to Steinbeck works despite losses in court. That, she said, led multiple Hollywood producers to abandon negotiations with her to develop screenplays for remakes of The Grapes of Wrath and East of Eden. The Supreme Court also refused to take up an appeal from South Dakota's only death row inmate, who was sentenced to death after he pleaded guilty to taking part in a torture killing 20 years ago. The court didn't comment in leaving in place the death sentence for Briley Piper, an Alaska man who was one of three people convicted in the killing of Chester Allen Poage of Spearfish, SD. The AP reports one has been executed and the other is serving a life sentence in prison. The most consequential case in October is a dispute between technology giants in which Oracle claims it's owed $9 billion by Google for using Oracle's copyrighted code in the development of Google's Android operating system for smartphones. The day after the election brings a battle of religious rights and LGBT discrimination from Philadelphia. A social services agency run by the Catholic church sued after the city decided to stop placing children with the agency over its policy of not permitting same-sex couples to serve as foster parents. President Trump's nominee for Ginsburg's seat, Judge Amy Coney Barrett, could be on the bench in time for one of the term's biggest cases, post-Election Day arguments in the latest Republican bid to strike down the Affordable Care Act, which provides more than 20 million people with health insurance. Barrett's confirmation would cement a 6-3 conservative majority and diminish Roberts' ability to moderate the court's decisions. That's because conservatives would have five votes even in cases where Roberts might side with the remaining three liberal justices. In December, the justices will decide whether the House of Representatives can obtain grand jury materials that were part of special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation of Russian interference in the last election. (Read more Scotus stories.) Although we join with many who find this interaction upsetting, the evidence that is available and that this office reviewed does not present a use of force that rises to the level of criminal liability, said the statement from Descanos office. This was a lawful stop, a lawful request for an individual to exit a vehicle, and a lawful use of force to remove that individual from his vehicle. Although this officer could have used a more appropriate demeanor, his actions do not meet the burden of a criminal offense as it currently appears in the Code of Virginia. The Cabinet is to hold an emergency meeting today to discuss the National Public Health Emergency Team's recommendation to impose level five restrictions on the entire country. The three Government leaders are meeting Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan at midday and a full Cabinet meeting will take place later this evening. The Covid-19 Oversight Group led by the Department of the Taoiseach secretary general Martin Fraser is also expected to discuss the Nphet recommendations. There is confusion across government over Mr Holohan's recommendation to put the country back into lockdown only days after public health experts said there was no need to introduce a new level of Covid-19 restrictions across the country. Tanaiste Leo Varadkar is understood to have significant concerns about imposing level five restrictions on the country. Fianna Fail sources said Taoiseach Micheal Martin was shocked by the recommendation and will consider them before making a decision. A Green Party source said Eamon Ryan is "concerned about any move to level five restrictions". "There is no guarantee the three government leaders will accept Nphet's recommendations," the source added. Read More Mr Holohan organised an emergency meeting of the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) yesterday evening - the day before he was due to return to work. After the meeting, Mr Holohan wrote to Health Minister Stephen Donnelly recommending the introduction of level five restrictions which would effectively close down the entire country apart from schools. The recommendation was made just four days after Nphet said there was no need to move into level three restrictions. Last Thursday, Acting Chief Medical Officer Ronan Glynn said: "on balance, the Nphet agreed that while the current trajectory of the disease is very concerning, the current epidemiological data does not strongly support a move to Level 3 nationally at this time. Nphet did recommend restrictions on social visits which reduced the number of people who you can visit a another home to six people from one other household. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Tanaiste Leo Varadkar and Green Party leader Eamon Ryan will meet Mr Holohan around lunch time to discuss his recommendation. It is unclear if a recently formed Covid-19 Oversight Group will consider the recommendations. There was widespread confusion last night and this morning around Mr Holohan's decision to hold a meeting and make a late night recommendation to the Government after new structures were put in place to streamline the communications around Covid advice. A senior Fianna Fail source said this morning: no one was expecting this so we will have to see what Tonys logic is. A senior Fine Gael source said: What has changed since Thursday when Nphet thought moving the country level three was appropriate other than Tony Holohan coming back? The Fine Gael source said the damage to the economy and to nation's mental health will be long standing if lockdown is imposed again. The source said "everyone in Government Buildings" was "annoyed" by how Nphet and Mr Holohan reacted on Sunday evening. Mr Varadkar cancelled an appearance at a business event organised by Enterprise Ireland this morning due to the escalating health crisis. Meanwhile, HSE Chief Executive Paul Reid said: we also know the impacts of severe and regular restrictions in society on the public health, wellbeing, mental health and the economy. Level 5 recommendation to Government has to be considered in this context too, Mr Reid added. Former Minister for Health Simon Harris has said that leaks and speculation dont help and that there are so many worries and questions on peoples minds. Doubt many of us got a nights sleep. So many worries & questions on peoples minds. Leaks & speculation dont help, he said. Today needs to bring clarity. Until then lets focus on what we can control and what we can do - keep distance, reduce contacts, wear face coverings. A Department of Health source confirmed Mr Holohan organised the emergency meeting yesterday evening. The source said Nphet is concerned about the increase in people being hospitalised after falling ill due to Covid-19. There is also a worrying rise in the number of people aged over 65 who are contracting the virus. There is also concern in Government over the failure of Minister Donnelly to agree a new deal with private hospitals to allow for more bed capacity to deal with the virus. If a deal had been reached we could have an extra 1,000 beds at this stage, a government source said. DENVER, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- AtWork, a rapidly growing national staffing franchise, announced today the opening of its new office in Denver, Colorado, the franchise's first Colorado location. The location is owned and operated by Ivanna Guerra, a staffing industry veteran. "We're excited about this expansion into the state of Colorado, and we're looking forward to developing a strong presence in Denver," said Jason Leverant, president and COO of AtWork Group. "By coupling Ivanna's experience with the knowledge, tools, and resources of AtWork's national franchise network, clients and associates alike will be able to realize why AtWork has been named a Best of Staffing award winner for 5+ years!" "We're looking to make a difference one day at a time," said Ivanna Guerra, owner of AtWork Denver Tech Center. "Our goal is to create opportunities for local markets while changing the lives of our candidates every day!" The new office is located at 7350 E Progress Place, Suite 100, Greenwood Village, CO 80138, and will be placing candidates into light industrial, professional, IT, and clerical positions. The business may be reached at 720-826-0687 or by visiting AtWork.com/DenverTechCenter. AtWork Group was recently ranked in: Staffing Industry Analysts' 2019 report on the Largest Staffing Firms in the United States, Franchise Business Review's Top Innovative Franchises, Forbes' America's Best Executive Recruiting Firms and America's Best Professional Recruiting Firms, Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500, Franchise Times' Fast & Serious, Franchise Times' Top 200+ and Inc. Magazine's Inc. 5000. SOURCE AtWork Group LANSING, Mich. -- Michigans health department issued a mask requirement and other coronavirus restrictions Monday, just days after the state Supreme Court invalidated a 75-year-old emergency powers law that underpinned Gov. Gretchen Whitmers orders to control the pandemic. The Democratic governor separately asked the court to declare its Friday ruling not binding until Oct. 30, to give her administration, the Republican-led Legislature and local health departments time to transition. GOP leaders questioned delaying the courts decision and prepared to return to session this month to codify an undetermined number of her 30-plus orders into law, such as one extending base unemployment benefits to 26 weeks from 20 weeks. The ruling nullified all virus-related orders issued after April 30. It means Whitmer must negotiate with lawmakers to extend a state of emergency and any new COVID-19 orders she writes. However, the administration can control an epidemic under a 1978 public health law that was not at issue in the case, though its authority is narrower. Department of Health and Human Services Director Robert Gordon required the wearing of masks at non-residential indoor and outdoor gatherings, limited gathering sizes, and ordered bars to close indoor common areas where people can dance or mingle and to sell alcohol only at tables kept at least 6 feet apart. ___ HERES WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE VIRUS OUTBREAK: Trump says hes leaving hospital for White House, feels good Some Orthodox Jews bristle at NYCs response to virus surge Paris on maximum virus alert, closing bars, not restaurants New Jersey governor: Trump fundraiser put lives at risk Kayleigh McEnany tests positive for COVID-19 Americans fault US govt over foreign powers for virus crisis ___ Follow APs pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak ___ HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING: SEOUL, South Korea -- South Korea has reported 75 new cases of the coronavirus as infections steadily rise in the greater capital area. The figures released by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency Tuesday brought the national caseload to 24,239, including 422 deaths. Fifty-four cases were reported in the Seoul metropolitan area, home to half of the countrys 51 million population, where infections have been tied to various places and groups, including churches, restaurants and workers. At least 36 troops have tested positive at an army unit in Pocheon, north of Seoul, while 14 other infections were tied to a hospital in nearby Euijeongbu. Theres concern that infections will grow in the coming weeks due to increased travel during the five-day Chuseok harvest holiday that ended Sunday. ___ UNITED NATIONS -- China and 25 other nations have called for the immediate lifting of sanctions by the United States and Western countries to ensure an effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking on behalf of the 26 countries at a meeting of the U.N. General Assemblys human rights committee on Monday, Chinas U.N. Ambassador Zhang Jun said unilateral coercive measures violate the U.N. Charter, multilateralism, and impede human rights by hindering the well-being of the population in the affected countries and undermining the right to health. Global solidarity and international co-operation are the most powerful weapons in fighting and overcoming COVID-19, the joint statement said. We seize this opportunity to call for the complete and immediate lifting of unilateral coercive measures, in order to ensure the full, effective and efficient response of all members of the international community to COVID-19. Among the countries that backed the statement were half a dozen that face sanctions by the United States, European Union or other Western nations including Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Russia, Syria and Venezuela. ___ HELENA, Mont. The number of new coronavirus cases among residents of Montanas most populous county is straining the health care system, the Yellowstone County health officer said Monday. He warned residents that he will put more restrictions in place on Nov. 2 if the infection rate continues to rise. The proposed new restrictions could limit gatherings to no more than 25 people, regardless of the ability to socially distance; and set 25% capacity restrictions on bars, restaurants and churches, health officer John Felton said. Any business that sells alcohol would have to close by 10 p.m. Schools would not be affected by the order. This health order need not take effect if enough people take action, he said during a news conference in Billings. If we consistently wear masks, watch our distance, stay 6 feet away, avoid group gatherings, wash our hands, and stay home when we are ill, we can reduce the number of new infections significantly over the next three weeks and stave off the health officer order. He strongly encouraged people to limit the duration of close interaction, within 6 feet (2 metres) or less, to less than 10 minutes and with fewer than six people per week. Feltons announcement came just days after Gov. Steve Bullock urged counties with larger outbreaks to consider stricter measures, such as shutting down bars and other gathering places. The new restrictions wouldnt be imposed until the end of the month to allow time to see if peoples efforts help reduce case growth. ___ FRANKFORT, Ky. -- Now that hes become infected with the coronavirus, President Donald Trump needs to set a better example during the pandemic, and he should start by always wearing a mask in public, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said Monday. Faced with surging numbers of COVID-19 cases in his state, Beshear urged Kentuckians to accept any inconvenience from donning facial coverings to do their part to contain the virus. The Democratic governor said hes looking to the Republican president to belatedly lead by example after Trumps positive test for the virus last week led to his hospitalization. Therere some areas where we need a better example from the president, Beshear said at a news conference. First, Ive been begging for months to have this president wear a mask in public. Trump remains popular across much of Kentucky, and Beshear typically has been reluctant to criticize the president. But the governor didnt hold back in admonishing Trump for his decision to briefly venture out in a motorcade Sunday to salute cheering supporters. He violated quarantine and isolation, Beshear said. You cant do that. Trump said Monday hes leaving the military hospital where he has been receiving treatment. Beshear said hes concerned the president was leaving too early for his own health. ___ BATON ROUGE, La. -- Gov. John Bel Edwards said Monday that alcohol sales can resume at Louisiana sporting events this weekend in parishes that have reached low rates of new coronavirus cases and are allowed to reopen bars. The Democratic governor said these changes to his coronavirus restrictions will be included in the latest emergency order he intends to release later this week. His current set of rules expires Friday, and Edwards hasnt said if hell loosen up any other limits. Edwards said in a statement that alcohol sales at stadiums, arenas and other sports complexes will be limited to fans buying alcohol and returning to their seats to drink it and will require event managers to continue with their strong COVID mitigation measures. Shortly after Edwards made his announcement, LSU said alcohol sales will return to Tiger Stadium for Saturdays football game. To qualify, sports events must be in parishes that have seen 5% of their coronavirus tests or less return positive in the last two weeks, an indication that the virus isnt spreading widely in the parish. The parish must also have agreed to reopen bars to onsite drinking. Twenty of Louisianas 64 parishes currently meet those criteria, according to the governors office. ___ TOPEKA, Kan. Gov. Laura Kelly says Kansas expects to receive 870,000 rapid COVID-19 tests from the federal government over the next three months to boost testing in potential hotspots. Kellys comments Monday came as the state saw a record increase in coronavirus-related hospitalizations. Kelly said the new tests are crucial for a new statewide policy of more testing of people without virus symptoms in areas with high infection rates and increasing routine testing in schools, nursing homes and prisons. She said the state already has received its first 57,000 tests. Kansas saw an average of more than 523 new confirmed and probable coronavirus cases a day in August and September, and the total now approaches 63,000 for the pandemic. The state Department of Health and Environment also reported Monday that Kansas has had 3,036 people hospitalized because of the virus, including 53 since Friday. - MINNEAPOLIS Thirteen staff members from an iconic Minneapolis steakhouse were self-quarantining after the restaurant catered a fundraiser attended by President Donald Trump during his visit to Minnesota last week, the restaurant said Monday. The 13 worked for Murrays Restaurant in downtown Minneapolis, which catered the fundraiser on Wednesday at the Lake Minnetonka home of Marty Davis, CEO of the quartz countertop manufacturer Cambria Co. LLC. About 40 contributors paid $200,000 a couple or $100,000 per person for the chance to meet the president and hear him speak. Our staff was there to work the party only and at no point did any staff come in close proximity to the president, the restaurant said in a statement. Upon learning of the presidents positive COVID-19 test, we immediately enacted a 14-day quarantine for all staff who worked the party. Additionally, each staff member who worked the party will be tested for COVID-19. Murrays, a family owned restaurant since 1946, is famous as Home of the Silver Butter Knife Steak. Its popular among the citys movers and shakers and sports figures. A spokesman for the restaurant, Chuck Sanger, said the restaurant is still able to operate normally despite the quarantine. ___ MONTPELIER, Vt. -- Vermont officials say 26 migrant workers at a large apple orchard have tested positive for the coronavirus. The news announced Monday has led to the biggest one-day increase in cases since June in a state that has consistently had one of the lowest infection rates in the U.S. The apple pickers at Champlain Orchards in Shoreham arrived legally Sept. 14 and were still in a 14-day quarantine when the Health Department learned one of them had tested positive. Officials say they arrived at New Yorks Kennedy Airport and took a bus together to Vermont. Officials say the infected workers were living together and have been isolated. It wasnt clear where they were originally from, but Deputy Agriculture Secretary Alyson Eastman notes that many workers who come to Vermont on the type of agriculture visa the infected apple pickers had are from Jamaica. Officials say people who picked apples or visited the farm stand are not at risk. ___ LONDON The British government has launched an investigation into how nearly 16,000 new coronavirus infections went unreported as a result of a technical glitch. The failing could have given fresh impetus to the countrys coronavirus outbreak and ultimately to an uptick in deaths. Health Secretary Matt Hancock told lawmakers Monday that 51% of those cases have now been contacted by contact tracers. Hancocks statement came after the weekend disclosure that a total of 15,841 virus cases werent tabulated from Sept. 25 to Oct. 2. Jonathan Ashworth, Labours spokesman on health issues, slammed the government for its latest failing on testing at one of the most crucial points in the pandemic. ___ RIVERSIDE, Calif. Pastor Greg Laurie of the prominent California-based church Harvest Christian Fellowship confirmed he has tested positive for COVID-19. Laurie said in an Instagram posting Monday that he tested positive on Friday and has been in quarantine since then with his wife, but so far all members of his family have tested negative. My symptoms have been mild so far, and I expect to make a full recovery, he wrote. I have always taken the Coronavirus seriously, and it has tragically taken many lives. At a time like this, we need to pray for those that have it and avoid politicizing it. If our President and First Lady can get COVID-19, clearly anyone can. ___ JOHANNESBURG African governments have worked together to launch a digital platform to inform travellers about COVID-19 travel restrictions across the continent, as many countries ease restrictions on international travel. Still reeling from nearly six months of a ban on international travel to avoid the spread of the coronavirus, major airports on the continent have now resumed international flights, but with specific restrictions. The #Trusted Travel, My COVID Pass, will provide travellers in Africa with information about what requirements they will face going to different countries in the continent, the head of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr.John Nkengasong, said Monday. The digital platform will also offer links to laboratories where travellers will be able to get the COVID-19 test results that are required for entry into many African countries, said Nkengason on an Africa CDC internet press conference. Some of the continents largest laboratory firms have backed the initiative. Chairman of South Africas Ampath Laboratories, Dr. Robbie Buck, said private labs across the continent can deliver test results in 24 hours. He discouraged travellers from trying to get tests at airports, saying the new platform for Africa could enable them to go to laboratories for screening and test results before they go to the airport. To enter South Africa, for example, a traveller must produce a negative test result delivered within 72 hours of the departure of the flight. Other African countries have different requirements. The new website is designed to inform travellers about the different requirements across the continent, said Nkengasong. It will initially provide information for 12 countries, including Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa and Senegal, considered travel hubs as they have high air traffic volumes. Director at Kenya Airways, Julius Thairu, said even though airlines are now allowed to operate, they have far fewer passengers than before the COVID-19 outbreak. Kenya Airways is currently operating with only 20% of the passengers it had before the travel bans were imposed in response to the coronavirus outbreak, he said. ___ GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. A Saginaw man is home after more than six months in health-care facilities, all related to COVID-19. John Curtis, 44, had abdominal surgery, seizures, sepsis, paralysis and more. He was released last week from his last stop: Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids. Hes been through a lot, said Dr. Ralph Wang, a rehab specialist. I think COVID probably caused half of his problems, Wang told WOOD-TV. So it was very significant. I think it probably prolonged how much time he was on the ventilator and probably contributed to his seizures and brain damage. Curtis health was good until March when he woke up with a 104-degree fever and other problems. He said his wife, Debi, was a good supporter throughout the ordeal. I wouldnt have been anywhere else, Debi Curtis said. He needed his family and the love and thats what we did. Wang predicted John Curtis can make a nearly full recovery with more work. He couldnt walk when he arrived at Mary Free Bee but now moves with a walker. He previously worked as a sander at a glass company. I am not going to take life for granted anymore, Debi Curtis said. And Im not going to take John for granted anymore. ___ NEW YORK New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo says hes ordering schools in certain New York City neighbourhoods closed within a day in an attempt to halt a flare-up of the coronavirus. The governor took the action a day after Mayor Bill de Blasio asked the state for permission to reinstate restrictions on businesses and schools in nine ZIP codes in Brooklyn and Queens where the virus was spreading more quickly. Cuomo said the closures would take place by Tuesday, a day ahead of when the mayor wanted. The restrictions are aimed mostly at neighbourhoods home to the citys large Orthodox Jewish community. The requested page is currently unavailable on this server. Back to [RTHK News Homepage] Do we offer therapies to the president of the U.S. that we would not offer anyone else? asked Peter Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. I dont know the doctors who made the decision, but it is hard for me to second- guess them. If he died, the security risk would be extraordinary, especially the way things are so revved up with conspiracy theories and everything else. It could have been very destabilizing. Hani Abdile has a poetic explanation for why she fled war-torn Somalia alone at the age of 17. "There's a Somalian poet who says 'I wouldn't leave home unless home was the mouth of a shark'," she says. "No one ever leaves the garden of their birth unless they have to." "No one ever leaves the garden of their birth unless they have to": Slam poet Hani Abdile, who features in the innovative Voxdocs series of short documentaries about the state of the performing arts. Credit:Kate Geraghty Abdile prefers not to go into detail about her escape, saying "sometimes in life, you have to talk about the good things", but was among 45 asylum seekers rescued by the Australian Navy from a sinking boat that was headed for New Zealand but became lost off Darwin in 2013. "It was a matter of die or survive," she says. "And I'm glad the second one happened." CHILDREN at a Henley nursery helped raise more than 100 for the charity Genetic Disorders UK by wearing jeans for a day. Parents were able to take their children to the Old Station Nursery in Fair Nile wearing jeans in return for a small donation. Staff also took part in the fundraiser, which was part of the charitys annual Jeans for Genes Day. Nursery manager Julie Crake said: It is a fantastic way to raise money for charity because everyone is able to get involved easily. We are incredibly thankful to all our parents who contributed and helped us in supporting this very worthwhile charity. WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Crude oil prices moved higher on Monday, lifted by reports about improvement in U.S. President Donald Trump's health and prospects of his early discharge from hospital. Fresh optimism about a new U.S. coronavirus relief package after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told CBS that progress was being made on coronavirus relief legislation helped ease concerns about energy demand outlook. Another positive trigger for oil today was the report about an escalation in workers' strike in Norway. West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures for November ended up $2.17 or about 5.9% at $39.22 a barrel. Brent crude futures advanced $2.30 or nearly 6% to $41.57 a barrel. U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Pelosi reportedly consulted Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell about their stimulus plan talks. An escalation in strike among offshore workers in Norway that resulted in the shutting down of six Norwegian offshore oil and gas fields pushed up oil prices. According to the Norwegian Oil and Gas Association (NOG), the strike will likely cut Norway's total output capacity by over 330,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, or about 8% of total production. 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. A breakdown of expenses obtained by CBC News reveals that Nalcor Energy paid a heavy price in legal fees related to the Muskrat Falls inquiry, including nearly $1 million to the law firm that represented former CEO Ed Martin. Although Martin left Nalcor under a cloud more than four years ago with a multimillion-dollar separation package, and was singled out for blistering criticism in the inquiry's final report, Nalcor was required to pay his legal fees. According to the Crown corporation, current and former officers and directors such as Martin are indemnified for their costs when they become involved in a legal proceeding related to their time with Nalcor. Nalcor Energy As such, the $972,111.68 billed by veteran lawyer Harold Smith, and a team of three others with St. John's law firm Stewart McKelvey, which represented Martin, was paid by Nalcor, the publicly owned corporation that planned and oversees the Lower Churchill project. "Nalcor had a legal obligation to cover Mr. Martin's legal expenses as they were incurred," a Nalcor official wrote in a statement to CBC. The statement also explained that Nalcor has insurance to cover "some fees" paid to Martin's legal team, and other current and former Nalcor officials involved with the inquiry. In all, Nalcor paid just under $7.8 million related to the inquiry for what are called professional services, with the majority of that nearly $5.8 million, including HST paid to well-known business law firm McInnes Cooper. Terry Roberts/CBC McInnes Cooper, led by lawyer Dan Simmons, represented Nalcor throughout the nearly two-year inquiry process, and helped co-ordinate the submission of some four million documents to the inquiry. Separately, the provincial government was billed more than $13 million by commission counsel, the various law firms that represented individuals or groups with standing at the inquiry, and for a pair of forensic audits by Grant Thornton. When the bills for the provincial government and Nalcor are combined, expenditures related to the inquiry reach nearly $24 million. Story continues Fees capped for lawyers Fourteen individuals, groups or organizations were given full or limited standing at the inquiry, with the commission paying their legal costs. Law firms representing those clients could charge a maximum of $225 per hour, with a cap of 10 hours per day. The firm O'Dea Earle, which represented former premier Danny Williams and several other former provincial politicians, billed the commission some $630,000, while lawyer Geoff Budden, who represented the Muskrat Falls Concerned Citizens Coalition, and was among the most visible lawyers at the inquiry, billed $460,000. CBC spoke to one lawyer who said in some months, he was billing up to 230 hours to the inquiry. "I never worked so hard in my life," said the lawyer. Terry Roberts/CBC But there was no such cap for the lawyers working for the inquiry, known as commission counsel, or for Nalcor. Commission co-counsel Barry Learmonth's firm, for example, billed at a rate of $375 per hour for Learmonth's services, with a total cost to the inquiry of $2.2 million. Harold Smith would not divulge how much he was charging to represent Ed Martin, saying that information is private between him and his client. Department of Justice and Public Safety Both Learmonth and Smith have been practising law for more than 40 years, and more experienced lawyers typically charge higher rates. A misguided project With the hydroelectric project billions over budget and years behind schedule, former premier Dwight Ball ordered the inquiry nearly three years ago. Following months of testimony in St. John's and Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Justice Richard LeBlanc released his 1,200-page report, entitled "Muskrat Falls: A Misguided Project," in March, but the report was quickly overshadowed by the growing COVID-19 pandemic. As the architect of the controversial project, Martin was the target of some scathing criticism from LeBlanc, who derided Martin and other top executives for taking "unprincipled steps" to ensure the project was approved. Terry Roberts/CBC LeBlanc said the culture at Nalcor was shaped by Martin, and this "resulted in a combination of unrealistic optimism, a willingness to misrepresent costs, schedule and risk, and an inability to change course when things were going wrong." LeBlanc also blasted politicians and bureaucrats for a lack of "capacity or strong inclination to effectively oversee Nalcor." The report is now in the hands of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary. A spokesperson said a team has been assembled to determine whether there is sufficient grounds to lay charges, and that investigation is ongoing. Nalcor Energy The Department of Justice is also reviewing the report for possible civil litigation. As for Muskrat Falls, the in-service cost for the project has now surpassed $13 billion, and full power is not expected to be reached until a year from now, which is four years behind the original schedule. When it was approved seven years ago, the cost was forecast at $7.4 billion. Nalcor is forecasting that power rates will nearly double to more than 23 cents per kilowatt-hour in two years in order to pay for Muskrat, though the provincial and federal governments continue to explore ways of keeping rates affordable in the Muskrat era. Read more from CBC Newfoundland and Labrador New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arderns centre-left government vowed on Monday to ban conversion therapy, which aims to change a persons sexual orientation, if returned to power, as widely expected, in polls on October 17. The globally discredited treatment, which harms and stigmatizes members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual or trans community has adherents in New Zealand, however. A recent survey showed more than one in six respondents reported being subjected to the efforts of psychiatrists, psychologists or counsellors to stop them being trans or non-binary, Labour Party leader Tamati Coffey said. Conversion therapy has been linked to severe adverse mental health issues, including depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation thats why it will be banned under a re-elected Labour Government, Coffey said in a statement. It is a practice that causes harm and is out of place in the kind, inclusive and modern country we are. Arderns Labour-led government, which is in a coalition with the Green Party and the nationalist New Zealand First Party, is widely seen as winning in the election. In the past, Ardern has spoken in support of banning conversion therapy. Alhtough brought up a Mormon, she left the church because of its conservative view on the LGBT community, and in solidarity with her gay friends. Several U.S. states, such as California, Colorado, New York and Washington have banned conversion therapy, which is sometimes performed by religious establishments and can include hypnosis and electric shocks, as a movement grows against it. Neighbouring Canada re-introduced a bill this month to criminalise such efforts. (This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.) Follow more stories on Facebook and Twitter Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 21:59:12|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close DAR ES SALAAM, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- At least five people were killed and 10 others were seriously injured in a road accident in Tanzania's business capital Dar es Salaam on Monday morning. Lazaro Mambosasa, Dar es Salaam special zone police commander, said the accident occurred when a commuter bus collided head-on with a lorry along the Mandela Expressway. "The lorry collided with the bus after its driver ignored traffic lights at a road junction," Mambosasa told a news conference. He said four of the injured people were in critical condition and they were rushed to the Muhimbili National Hospital, the country's leading medical referral facility. Enditem By Express News Service NEW DELHI: The Centre is hoping to receive and utilise 400-500 million doses of vaccine against Covid-19 covering approximately 20-25 crore people by July, 2021, Union health minister Harsh Vardhan declared on Sunday. Interacting with his social media followers through the programme titled Sunday Samvaad, the minister also said that the government is keeping an eye on immunity data with regard to Covid-19 disease while finalizing these plans, as reported by this newspaper earlier. "There is a high-level expert body going into all aspects of vaccines. Our rough estimate and the target would be to receive and utilise 400 to 500 million doses covering approximately 25 crore people by July 2021," he said. In response to the question on prioritising the distribution of vaccines, Vardhan said that the Union health ministry is currently preparing a format in which states will submit lists of priority population groups to receive vaccines, especially health workers engaged in the management of Covid-19. The list of frontline health workers will include both government as well as private sector doctors, nurses, paramedics, sanitary staff, ASHA workers, surveillance officers and many other occupational categories who are involved in tracing, testing and treatment of patients. This exercise is targeted to be completed by the end of this October and the states are being closely guided to also submit details about cold chain facilities and other related infrastructure which will be required down to the block level. The minister also underlined that vaccine procurement is being done centrally and each consignment will be tracked real time until delivery to ensure it reaches those who need it most. He added that the expert group on vaccine administration is working on understanding the timelines of availability of various vaccines in the country, obtaining commitments from vaccine manufacturers to make available maximum number of doses for India inventory and supply chain management and also on prioritisation of high-risk groups. This is work in progress which will be completed by the time the vaccines are ready to ensure the swift roll-out of the immunisation program, Vardhan added. While responding to a question on the level playing field for various clinical trials, Vardhan stressed shared that all proposed clinical trials in India are designed using set principles and are stringently reviewed by the subject expert committee set up by the Drug Controller General of India. Recently, the drug regulator had also formulated draft guidelines on regulatory requirements for licensure of Covid-19 vaccines in India. On being asked whether Phase 3 Clinical Trial of Russia's Sputnik-V vaccine will be carried out in India, the minister clarified that the matter is still under consideration, and no decision has been taken as yet. Vardhan meanwhile clarified that there is no plan to carry out human challenge trials for Covid-19 vaccines in the country-a trial method in which volunteers are first vaccinated and then deliberately exposed to the virus to assess whether the vaccine is effective. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 20:34:23|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Portraits of the 2020 Nobel laureates in Physiology or Medicine are seen at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, on Oct. 5, 2020. Three scientists share the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, the Nobel committee announced here on Monday. (Photo by Wei Xuechao/Xinhua) STOCKHOLM, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Three scientists share the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, the Nobel committee announced here on Monday. The Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet has today decided to award the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine jointly to Harvey J. Alter, Michael Houghton and Charles M. Rice "for the discovery of Hepatitis C virus." "For the first time in history, the Hepatitis C virus can now be cured. The 2020 Medicine Laureates' discoveries revealed the cause of the remaining cases of chronic hepatitis and made possible blood tests and new medicines that have saved millions of lives," the committee said. Thomas Perlmann, secretary-general of the Nobel Committee and the Nobel Assembly, told a press conference that he was able to reach two of the three laureates, and when they were informed of the news, they were "extremely surprised, happy, and almost speechless." This year's Nobel Prize is awarded to three scientists who have made a decisive contribution to the fight against blood-borne hepatitis, a major global health problem that causes cirrhosis and liver cancer in people around the world. Harvey J. Alter, Michael Houghton and Charles M. Rice made seminal discoveries that led to the identification of a novel virus, Hepatitis C virus. Prior to their work, the discovery of the Hepatitis A and B viruses had been critical steps forward, but the majority of blood-borne hepatitis cases remained unexplained. The discovery of Hepatitis C virus revealed the cause of the remaining cases of chronic hepatitis and made possible blood tests and new medicines that have saved millions of lives, according a statement released by the committee. Harvey J. Alter, born in 1935 in the U.S., received his medical degree at the University of Rochester Medical School, and worked at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Michael Houghton, born in the UK, received his PhD degree from King's College London, and is currently a Canada Excellence Research Chair in Virology. Charles M. Rice, born in 1952 in the U.S., received his PhD degree from the California Institute of Technology, is working at the Rockefeller University, New York, according to a statement from the Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet. According to the Nobel Foundation earlier, this year's prize is 10 million Swedish krona (about 1.12 million U.S. dollars), which will be equally shared among the three laureates. Enditem The Congress on Monday accused the BJP of playing an insidious game of intimidation" through its puppet CBI" after the agency conducted raids against its Karnataka unit chief D K Shivakumar. The opposition party questioned the timing of the raids, as by-election to two assembly seats in Karnataka is to be held on November 3, and termed it as witch-hunt" by the BJP against its political rivals. Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the raid raj" will not deter it from unearthing corruption and maladministration" by the BJP governments. The insidious game of intimidation and machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding DK Shivakumar wont deter us. CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in the Yeddyurappa Government. But, Raid Raj is their only Machiavellian Move!," he said on Twitter. Searches were held by the CBI at 14 locations linked to Shivakumar in Delhi, Karnataka and Maharashtra in connection with allegations of acquisition of disproportionate assets. State Congress leaders have hit out at the BJP governments at the Centre and in Karnataka for the CBI action, linking it to November 3 by-election to Sira and R R Nagar Assembly segments. Party workers protested against the CBI in front of Shivakumars residence and various places, calling the agency as an agent of the BJP." Let Modi and Yeddyurappa Governments and BJPs frontal organisations i.e CBI-ED-Income Tax know that Congress workers and leaders will not be cowed down nor bow down before such devious attempts," Surjewala also said. Congress spokesperson Sushmita Dev alleged that the BJP repeatedly uses the central agencies to target opposition leaders and questioned why no action has been taken against the family member of the chief minister over allegations of corruption. Why is it that before every election, the moment an election or a by-election is ordered the CBI suddenly wakes up and starts these raids," she asked. The BJP described as ridiculous and meaningless" the protests by the Congress workers. The Karnataka BJP spokesperson, Captain Ganesh Karnik, said CBI, ED and IT department are institutions with functional autonomy to investigate and bring to justice financial and criminal fraudsters. They are always on their job. The present raid is in continuation of investigations started by ED in 2017," he said. Speaking in the same vein, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister C N Ashwath Narayan rejected the charge that the CBI action was politically motivated", and asserted it has nothing to do with the November 3 by-election. Dev questioned the BJP over Prime Minister Narendra Modis Na khaunga, na khane dunga" slogan, saying what justification can it give to the nation about not investigating Chief Minister Yediyurappas family members". We want to ask the Central Bureau of Investigation that why is it that you always wake up before an election, are you not acting as a stooge of this government," she asked. The Congress leader alleged that the BJP is repeatedly using agencies to divert the attention of the nation. We condemn this witch-hunt and the Congress Party stands by Shri D.K. Shivakumar who is nothing but a victim of an election that is due to happen in Karnataka," she said. The CBI has registered a fresh case against Shivakumar based on a source information from another agency. The information relates to assets amassed during Shivakumars tenure as a minister in Karnataka, officials said. Shivakumar was arrested on September 23 last year by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money laundering case and was lodged in the Tihar jail under judicial custody. The Congress leader was released from the jail on October 23 after the Delhi High Court granted him bail. Sangrur/Samana: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was 'finishing' farmers and labourers with the three farm laws introduced recently just as he had "destroyed" small shopkeepers with demonetisation and implementation of GST. Intensifying his attack on the Centre, he also brought up the issue of China and claimed that it had "dared to enter India and kill our soldiers" as Modi has "weakened" the country. Addressing a public gathering in Punjab's Sangrur, Gandhi claimed that none of the policies of the Modi-led Central government during the last six years were meant to benefit the poor, farmers or labourers. "All of its policies are made for their three to four select friends," he said. Live TV Asserting the need to improve the food procurement and Public Distribution System, Gandhi said, "There is a need to strengthen this system. More mandis need to be set up. There is a need to guarantee MSP (minimum support price), to give infrastructure to farmers, to set up silos". "Narendra Modi is not strengthening the system... If Modi gives better PDS, guarantees MSP and brings more mandis, then Ambani and Adani cannot make money," the Congress leader alleged. He claimed the new agriculture-related laws were not only 'against' farmers and labourers but the entire nation and were meant to 'snatch' the country's freedom. "Like he (Modi) finished small traders and small and medium enterprises with GST and demonetisation, he is finishing farmers and labourers the same way and slashing your throats with these three laws," he said. He also asked the BJP-led Centre why it was in a "hurry" to bring the laws during the COVID-19 pandemic. "The reason is because Modi thinks if feet of farmers and labourers are hit with axes during coronavirus time, then they will not be able to come out of their houses," he said. Addressing another gathering in Patiala, Gandhi said Modi had said that China had not entered Indian territory. "Then how were our 20 jawans killed Who killed them," he asked. "China understands that Narendra Modi has weakened India and has taken advantage of this to take control of 1,200 kms of our land," Gandhi claimed. The government had earlier termed as "mischievous interpretation" the Congress' claims that China had occupied Indian territory in eastern Ladakh region. Gandhi, who is holding a series of tractor rallies during his 'Kheti Bachao Yatra' across Punjab to protest the Centre's new farm laws, further alleged that the PM has "broken the backbone of the country" whose economic growth has plummeted from 9 per cent under the previous Manmohan Singh-led government to -24 per cent at present. He alleged that the Centre waived the debt of "people like Ambani and Adani" but "finished" small and medium businesses. "Modi ji is clearing the way for Ambani and Adani and you will have to understand this," he told the gathering. Stating that it was not "Ambani and Adani" but small and medium sized businesses who generate employment, Gandhi said, "I am saying with a guarantee that this country will not be able to give employment to its youth in the coming time because Modi has destroyed the employment providing system". "After GST, demonetisation and coronavirus, Modi ji is now into destroying our food security system," he alleged. Gandhi said farmers in Punjab, a Congress-ruled state, can approach the administration in if they face any problem in mandis. He alleged that people would have to pay twice or thrice the price for food once "Ambani and Adani captured the country's farm system". "Tomorrow one side will be Ambani and the other side will be Adani. Can you fight them, can you file a case against them. Certainly not," he said. He also said lakhs of people will be unemployed with the dismantling of the mandi system. Quoting Guru Nanak Dev, Gandhi said, "if we do not face the truth today, we will suffer". "Why is Haryana quiet" Why are the Lions of Punjab not roaring, asked Gandhi and urged farmers to rise against the Centre's "tyranny". Gandhi said the Congress will not allow the disbanding of MSP and mandi systems. "MSP, mandis and food procurement systems are like a wall. Narendra Modi wants to break this wall for Ambani and Adani," he said. "How Britishers ruled India? They broke the backbone of farmers. The day backbone of farmers and labourers is broken, the entire country will be enslaved," he said. Gandhi said he will not allow the Modi-led government to attack the "soul" of India. "We will not step back even an inch. We will collectively fight Modi, Ambani and Adani," he said. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, AICC general secretary in-charge of Punjab Harish Rawat, Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jakhar, ministers Balbir Sidhu, Vijay Inder Singla, Rana Gurmit Sodhi and Rajya Sabha MP Deepender Hooda were among the leaders present on the occasion. MLA and former minister Navjot Singh Sidhu was not present at the protest rally. President Ram Nath Kovind gave his assent to the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill; Farmers' (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill; and Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, which were passed by the Parliament last month. Her first grandchild, born in early August, has been named for her. And on Sunday, Maria Shriver was spotted on a coffee run in Los Angeles. The 64-year-old was dressed down in a black workout ensemble for the errand. Weekend errand: Maria Shriver, 64, was seen on a Sunday coffee run in LA looking casual in a black workout ensemble and a red cardigan Shriver stepped out in black trainers and had on a red cardigan and used a bandana as a face covering. The former wife of Hollywood star Arnold Schwarzenegger wore her long hair tied back from her face and sported sunglasses. She shares four children with her ex-husband and they became grandparents when their daughter Katherine, 30, gave birth to her first child with actor husband Chris Pratt. The baby girl has been named Lyla Maria. Dressed down: Shriver stepped out in black trainers and used a bandana as a face covering. She wore her long hair tied back from her face and sported sunglasses Shriver became a grandmother when daughter Katherine, 30, gave birth to a daughter Lyla Maria in early August. Shriver is pictured with Katherine and her other daughter Christina, 29 New parents: Katherine welcomed her first child with actor Chris Pratt whom she married in 2019 In addition to Katherine, Shriver is also mom to daughter Christina, 29, and to sons Patrick, 27, and Christopher, 23. On September 27, Arnold joined Shriver and kids Christina and Patrick to celebrate Christopher's birthday. The Terminator star and the former news anchor split in 2011 after 25 years of marriage when it was revealed the actor had fathered a son Joseph Baena with the family's former housekeeper. The exes finalized their divorce in 2017. Keyari and Kamari Bynum in better times. Now they must take a shower the minute they return from their school in Marin City, and they get regular lectures from their father about hand-washing and common sense. (Shannon Bynum / Special to The Times) Cozbi Mazariegos stays in shape these days by running room to room inside her apartment to answer questions from her kids, ages 7, 10 and 12. Theyre all working at home on laptops issued by their school, Bayside Martin Luther King Jr. Academy, in Marin City, near Sausalito. Meanwhile, Shannon Bynums son, Kamari, 10, and daughter, Keyari, 8, who live nearby, are back on the Bayside MLK campus. Bynum had warned them, however, that if he heard they werent wearing masks, theyd have to learn remotely, too. The two households, less than three miles apart, have found different answers to one of the most perplexing questions this fall: Should parents send their children back to school for classes during an ongoing pandemic or keep them at home? At Bayside MLK, a K-8 school serving the ethnically and economically diverse community of Marin City, 103 children are attending class in person, including the Bynum children. The Mazariegos kids are among 12 learning remotely. In March, the coronavirus consigned nearly all of the nations 55 million schoolchildren to home schooling. One by one, school districts across the country are weighing the risks of reopening. Some that have reopened have seen a spike in coronavirus cases among students who returned to class. Bayside MLK was one of 15 Marin County schools that received waivers from the local public health department to reopen full time on Sept. 8, but officials gave parents the choice whether to send their children to campus or keep them home. The start of classes was delayed for a week when one school employee contracted the virus, said Principal David Finnane. Once they started, the challenges mounted. This is the most mind-numbing time Ive ever had as an educator, said Finnane, whos been a school principal for two decades. These are crazy days of temperature checks, telling third-grade Jenny she entered the second-grade gate at the wrong time, telling Xavier to use sanitizer on his elbow after he sneezes, reminding students not to touch this thing or that thing. Its a job this school has never had to do and now were doing it every day, all day long. Story continues Health and safety protocols enacted by the school include staggered arrival times for students (via parent drop-offs), smaller classes, spaced-out desks, routine temperature and health checks, and an intensified cleaning schedule. Mazariegos, 52, spent a difficult summer deciding whether to send Emily, 12, Ezekiel Jr., 10, and 7-year-old Evelyn back to class if and when school reopened in the fall. But her husband, Ezekiel, a 42-year-old construction worker, had made up his mind. He said, Are you crazy? We cant send our kids back to school without a vaccine, she recalled. How do we know theyd be safe? Mazariegos, who was a schoolteacher in her native Guatemala but now stays at home with her kids, has juggled the roles of teacher, tech consultant and even hall monitor in recent weeks. School hadnt been back in session for a week before her home Wi-Fi connection crashed. The two eldest kids could not connect to their Zoom instruction sessions, so Mazariegos called the school for help. To make sure they didnt resort to computer games in the interim, she gave them textbooks to read. The phone was ringing, the kids were all calling my name from different rooms, she said. It was crazy. Single father Bynum, on the other hand, chose to send his two kids back to school. Kids learn from other kids, not just teachers, said the 29-year-old real estate developer. In school, they know whats expected of them. Its the best place for them to be. Finnane, the principal, had hoped all 115 students would return to classrooms. Many kids doing distance learning just dont have the same support network, he said. They might not have the resources, a quiet place to work, a supportive adult right there who can mentor and encourage them. And then there are the technical issues. Students who have stayed at home have experienced internet failures, Zoom glitches and computer bandwidth problems or when a teacher gives out the wrong Zoom link, all of which has already happened, Finnane said. A recent study by the Economic Policy Institute on the educational challenges posed by the pandemic found that remote-learning programs are effective only if students have consistent access to the internet and computers and if teachers receive targeted training and support for online instruction. Though researchers acknowledged the risk of virus infection is greater at school, they found that students who have not returned to the classroom are falling behind. Childrens academic performance is deteriorating during the pandemic, along with their progress on other developmental skills, the study said. When Bayside MLK resorted to remote teaching for the entire school in the spring, officials identified 41 students who were demonstrably falling behind, Finnane said. Standardized tests given to students this academic year will provide a report card on students success, he added. Over the summer, Bayside MLK teachers received one day of training to perform online classes in addition to their at-school duties. A full day of online-learning training helps, but when it comes to the constant challenges of teaching, especially those with special needs, Im not sure thats sufficient, said Emma Garcia, who co-authored the Economic Policy Institute study. Mazariegos knows this all too well. Her daughter Emily has comprehension issues that have kept her back a grade. A quiet girl who loves animals and science, and who one day wants to become a veterinarian, the sixth-grader relies on her mother to spend extra time reviewing lessons. She has to touch and feel things, to have a lesson demonstrated before she can best understand, her mother said. She cant just sit in front of a computer reading some concept over and over and over. Mazariegos understands her daughter may fall another year behind but says shell take that chance. If we lose her to COVID-19, that year is nothing, she said. This is a hard decision for any mother. But Emily is so afraid of the virus that sending her back to school would just be traumatizing. Bynum, whose fourth-grade son, Kamari, suffers from attention deficit disorder, believes the classroom is the best place for the restless child. In March, when the school was closed at the start of the pandemic, Bynum got a taste of the demanding task of being a teacher. With two kids in two different grades asking me questions, I struggled to explain things, he said. It would have been easy for me to just tell them the answer, but the object of a good instructor is to teach them to find it themselves. And I had to learn that. Bynum has developed his own protocol. He requires his children to shower the moment they return from school, and they get regular lectures about hand-washing and common sense. If I even suspect theyre not wearing their masks, Ill say, OK, its back to the house and your laptop, and theyll say, Oh, yeah, Dad, Im wearing my mask. Mazariegos remains comfortable with her decision, especially when she reads about all the COVID-19 outbreaks at schools and colleges. Her kids arent so sure. Second-grader Evelyn, an outgoing girl, recently joined a Zoom lesson that included classmates she hadnt seen in person for months. She cried, her mother said. She wanted to be back at school to see her friends. This story was produced by KHN (Kaiser Health News), which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation. KHN is not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. October 12 16: 2020 Virtual Cell & Gene Meeting on the Mesa. Sunyoung Kim, D. Phil, Chief Executive Officer of Helixmith, will present an update on clinical development of Helixmiths plasmid DNA product, Engensis, as well as an overview of other products in the companys pipeline. Company presentations will be available to view on-demand throughout the entirety of the conference. Members of the companys management and business development team will host one-on-one partnering meetings during the conference. To schedule a meeting, please use the Cell & Gene Meeting on the Mesa Partnering portal: https://www.meetingonthemesa.com/partnering/. October 26 29: BIO-Europe Digital 2020. Sunyoung Kim, D. Phil, Chief Executive Officer of Helixmith, provided an on-demand company presentation on the clinical development of Helixmiths plasmid DNA product, Engensis, as well as an overview of other products in the companys pipeline. Registered attendees get access to on-demand content early as early as September 21. Members of the companys management and business development teams will host one-on-one partnering meetings during the conference. To schedule a meeting, please use the BIO-Europe partnering portal at: https://informaconnect.com/bioeurope/partnering/. About Chief Executive Officer, Sunyoung Kim, D. Phil. Dr. Kim is the founder and CEO of Helixmith. Prior to founding Helixmith, Dr. Kim served as Professor at Seoul National University for over 20 years after serving as Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Kim received his DPhil in Molecular Genetics at the University of Oxford, an MS in Biochemical Engineering at MIT, an MA in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics at Harvard University and held postdoctoral fellowships at Harvard Medical School and Whitehead Institute, MIT. About Engensis Helixmith's Engensis (VM202) is a gene therapy based on plasmid DNA. To date, more than 500 patients have been treated with Engensis across ten clinical trials in six different diseases and conditions. Data from clinical studies suggest that Engensis is well tolerated and has the potential to provide durable analgesic and/or symptomatic relief in a variety of disease settings. Beyond potentially alleviating pain, Engensis is designed to target the underlying cause of neuropathy through its predicted angiogenic and neuroregenerative properties. In 2018, the US FDA recognized the potential for Engensis to meet an unmet need for treatment in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) by designating it as a Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy (RMAT), making it the first RMAT-designated gene therapy for a prevalent disease with over one million patients. This designation grants all the benefits afforded by the fast track and breakthrough designations, including priority review, in the development of Engensis for the DPN indication. About Helixmith Helixmith is a gene therapy company headquartered in Seoul, Korea, developing new and innovative biopharmaceuticals to tackle previously untreated diseases, and is listed on KOSDAQ. The company has an extensive gene therapy pipeline, including a CAR-T program targeting several different types of solid tumors and an AAV vector program targeting neuromuscular diseases. Engensis (VM202), a more advanced pipeline candidate, is a plasmid DNA therapy being studied for DPN, diabetic foot ulcers, claudication, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Phase 2 beginning in late 2020), coronary artery disease and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Helixmith clinical development and manufacturing activities are based in San Diego, California, where the company co-owns a cGMP-ready DNA production facility, Genopis, Inc., an affiliated CDMO also in San Diego. Genopis serves both Helixmith and external customers in need of plasmid DNA for medical purposes. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Yves Le Drian, and Secretary of State of the United States of America Michael R. Pompeo, representing the Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, condemn in the strongest terms the unprecedented and dangerous escalation of violence in and outside of the Nagorno-Karabakh zone, ARMENPRESS reports reads the joint statement issued by the foreign ministers of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-chair countries. The Ministers stress unconditionally that recent attacks allegedly targeting civilian centers - both along the Line of Contact and on the territories of Azerbaijan and Armenia outside the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone - and the disproportionate nature of such attacks constitute an unacceptable threat to the stability of the region. Recalling the October 1 statement of the Heads of State of the three Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, the Ministers call once again upon the conflicting parties to accept an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. The Co-Chairing countries are determined to exercise fully their mandate, entrusted to them by the OSCE and the international community, with the contribution of the Minsk Group capitals. As such, they will firmly continue to advance their engagement with the sides, and urge them to commit now to resuming the settlement process on the basis of existing core principles and relevant international documents well-known by both parties. Prince Harry and Prince William's feud is continues to mount and now, lying about Archie's birth is thrown into the picture. A new book entitled "Battle of Brothers" penned by Robert Lacey divulges the details regarding the two siblings' rift and all the hurdles leading up to an eventual falling out. Meghan Markle's Time of Birth Earlier in Reality An excerpt divulged, "unlike every other royal birth of modern times took place in total secrecy: Buckingham Palace announced at 2pm on May 6, 2019, that Meghan had gone into labour that morning." In truth, she had safely given birth to her infant Archie eight hours earlier, at 5.26am, reported The News International. Prince William Asked to Stop Rushing Into Marriage With Meghan Markle Also, according to the memoir, Prince William ignited the ire of Prince Harry by turning to their uncle Earl Spencer to advise him to take his and Meghan Markle's relationship slowly. The Duke of Cambridge reportedly called in the brother of her late mother after blunt and crabby reactions to his own efforts to talk to the Duke of Sussex, reported Inside Express. Prince William could not get his grip how his younger brother could ruminate marrying an untested and yet to be fully known woman less than two years following their first meeting. 'Surrogate' Father According to sources, Prince Harry will allegedly bond for Christmas with "surrogate" father David Foster. Prince William was reportedly angry with Prince Harry that he declined to have lunch with him prior to the Sandringham Summit, reported The Sun. Also Read: Meghan Markle Subtly Confirms Prince WIlliam, Kate Middleton Reason for Megxit? Past Unbreakable Bond Prince William, 38, and Prince Harry, 36 used to trained to manhandle helicopters together, clown around, and shared experiences from a traumatic upbringing. Before the Duke and Duchess of Sussex crossed paths, the brothers were living alongside each other at Kensington Palace. Prince Harry would visit Prince William and Kate Middleton's apartment and play with their kids. On Megxit The biography also unveils the British royal family's disappointment regarding the Sussexes' decision to renounce their membership as senior working members of the royal family early this 2020. The Queen believed that the decision was done unsteadily and impulsively. She even proposed that Prince Harry and Markle to relocate to Africa from one to two years for their bonding. Impact on the Royal Family The siblings' ongoing rift could result to adverse effects on the royal family in the long run. Lacey stated that their saga would go down as one of the royal family's largest scandals. The memoir is reportedly a counter to the Prince William and Markle's memoir, "Finding Freedom." Adding to Prince Harry and Prince William's rift, the Firm also found it unfavorable when Prince Harry and his wife made an effort to trademark "Sussex Royal" to commercialize the throne without Queen Elizabeth II's authorization. Related Article: Prince William Writes Poignant Letter to Prince Harry Amid Royal Rift @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A New Zealand homeowner whose house has failed to sell for 13 years has strategically upped the price and shared photos of the property inundated with water. Roland Le Gal, of Feilding, north of Wellington, placed his two-bedroom Lethbridge Street home on the market in 2007 for $465,700. The listing has extended well beyond the average 30 days it takes for homes to be snapped up in the North Island town, which has a median house price of $469,000. Now, he is asking for $680,050 for the home after the rateable value (RV), a value set by the council in order to determine rates for a property, jumped from $200,000 to $320,000. Roland Le Gal has strategically upped the price of his Feilding home (pictured) after it has been failed to sell on the property market for 13 years But the raise is part of his master plan - which has nothing to do with selling the house. The advertisement is an escalation in an ongoing feud Mr Le Gal has held with his local council ever since a nearby redevelopment led to flooding on his property. He wants others curious about the flooding to contact the local council. 'Im not really interested in selling. Im just having a go at the council,' Mr Le Gal told Stuff. 'Were still getting flooded out, and its because they built on the swamp over the back, and blocked the stormwater drains.' Spruiking the property online, Mr Le Gal wrote it is 'prone to flooding' alongside images dating back to 2010 of water pooling through the driveway and into the garage. 'How is it that they can give permits for allowing houses to be built over main sewerage pipes!' he wrote. Mr Le Gal said he is not really interested in selling the house but is just having a dig at the council after redevelopment nearby led to flooding (pictured) on his property 'Core samples have been taken to confirm the depth of the marsh. Area of the section will change due to kerb and channel being removed to allow for another section between the existing houses. 'Sorry there is no access to the sheds at the back of the section, but plenty of parking on the street out front. 'Please don't be put off by these minor inconveniences! Latest rating bill is only $3016 so be in quick for a bargain.' A spokesperson from Manawatu District Council told the publication it is aware of the owner's situation. 'He has a bee in his bonnet on an issue, but it is really nothing to do with us,' they said. When you need to warm up, what's your favorite winter comfort food? In the back of Hamilton Cemetery, amid the whirring traffic from nearby Highway 403, there is a lonely sign with a big X on it. While one might be tempted to say X marks the spot, it actually refers to a large section of the cemetery, an area of modest gravestones and paupers graves with no markers at all. Somewhere just behind the sign are the buried remains from one of the most perplexing murder mysteries in Hamilton history, a case known as the Barton Murder. There is no stone to remember the final resting place of the woman who died 115 years ago this week mostly because no one ever figured out who she was. The body of the victim, estimated to be 28 to 30 years old and pregnant, was found on Hamilton Mountain on Oct. 9, 1905 in a wooded area in former Barton Township off what is now Upper Wellington and Towercrest, south of the Linc. She had been shot in the back of the head. With no clues about her identity, police asked undertaker Blachford and Sons to prepare the body and put it on public display, something that drew thousands of people who lined up to have a look. Drawings of the womans face were printed in newspapers across the continent along with weeks of stories about updates in the investigation. But despite all that, police were unable to determine who she was, much less find the person responsible. Bob Rankin, a retired Hamilton Police detective, and former private investigator, has looked into the case on and off over the past several years out of personal interest. Hes collected a bankers box of press clippings and documents through library and online sources and retraced the steps of the original investigators. Heres a woman who was pregnant. She was with the guy that she loved who shoots her in the head and kills her. We dont know who she is and she is buried in a paupers grave, he said. It just didnt seem right so I thought that I would look into it. And while Rankin has found the same dead ends as the investigators before him, he feels the mystery could be solved using modern science. He believes a DNA sample could be taken from the exhumed body probably from a tooth and compared to databases in hopes of finding a descendent. That in turn could point to the identity of the victim. In the same way that people are learning about relatives they didnt know existed through ancestry DNA tests, relatives of the murder victim could be found. Moreover, there is even a slim chance that a usable DNA sample could be extracted from the fetus. That could point to the father, the person believed to be responsible for the murder. But that would be a long shot because the pregnancy was at an early stage. Hendrik Poinar, director of the Ancient DNA Centre at McMaster University, says archeologists are often able to extract DNA profiles from long-dead corpses. In the case of the Barton Murder, the profile could be compared to ancestral databases and if a (distant) relative had done a test and was in the database you might get lucky and find a hit. That would allow you to trace it back to a name and then a family. I asked Hamilton Police spokesperson Jackie Penman whether police might be interested in using DNA to solve this very cold case. An exhumation would require a warrant, she said in an email, and given the case is nearly 115 years old, the ability to extract DNA may be difficult. Given that all parties involved are deceased, there is no possibility of a criminal conviction. The Barton Murder case began with three boys from Hamilton hiking up the Mountain in search of chestnuts at a farm called Limestone Ridge owned by a man named Harry Marshall. Walking through a cluster of hickory trees one of the youngsters noticed a womans foot underneath some leaves and brush. At first he thought it was a discarded scarecrow, but a closer look revealed it was a womans body in a pool of blood. The boys ran to Marshalls home and police were contacted. She had no purse or identification. A silver chain that probably once carried a pendant was found at the scene, and she wore a brooch with S.R. on the back and a souvenir pin inscribed with NIAGARA FALLS. Some of her clothing was found to have been made and purchased in the U.S., suggesting she was from there. Residents in the area recalled seeing a man with a woman who matched the description of the victim. Mabel Ayers said she believed the couple stayed overnight at the nearby Commercial Hotel where she worked. They had signed in as W. Wilson & wife, with the woman signing the guest book. Several people wrongly identified the corpse. A few claimed to be the killer but their stories turned out to be bogus. With much fanfare, a spiritualist named Ann Eva Fay set out to solve the mystery, but didnt get anywhere. The following May, a coroners jury concluded that nothing more could be done to find out the woman or the killers name. That is, it seems, until now. Greg James' wife Bella Mackie took a swipe at Billie Piper's ex-husband Laurence Fox in a tweet on Sunday. Bella praised 38-year-old Billie's 'happy new life' after splitting from the actor, 42 - who has been embroiled in multiple controversies this year - in 2016. The journalist, 35, wrote: 'Every day I feel glad for Billie Piper and her happy new life away from *all that.' Swipe: Greg James' wife Bella Mackie took a swipe at Billie Piper's ex-husband Laurence Fox in a tweet on Sunday Laurence and Billie split in 2016 after nine years of marriage. They share two sons, Winston, 11, and Eugene, eight. Billie is now in a long-term relationship with musician Johnny Lloyd who she began dating in 2016. The couple are parents to daughter Tallulah, who was born in January 2019. Laurence has been swept up into multiple controversies in 2020. Happier times: Bella praised 38-year-old Billie's 'happy new life' after splitting from the actor, 42 - who has been embroiled in multiple controversies this year - in 2016 (pictured 2014) The actor is embroiled in a heated exchange with a number of Twitter users including Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp and deputy chair of Stonewall, Simon Blake, whom he called 'paedophiles' after they claimed he was 'racist'. This comes after Fox accused Sainsbury's of 'promoting racial segregation and discrimination' and promised to boycott the supermarket chain after it promoted Black History Month. As he faced a backlash for his views, he clapped back at people 'falsely accusing him of racism' by retaliating with unsubstantiated slurs calling them 'paedophiles'. Barbed: The journalist, 35, wrote: 'Every day I feel glad for Billie Piper and her happy new life away from *all that' He has since removed the posts, writing: 'I have deleted the tweets posted yesterday, in response to being repeatedly, continuously and falsely smeared as a racist.' At the weekend Fox found himself in a fiery debate with former Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp after she said Fox was 'unequivocally, publicly and undeniably a racist'. He hit back: 'Any company giving future employment to Nicola Thorpe or providing her with a platform does so with the complete knowledge that she is unequivocally, publicly and undeniably a paedophile.[sic]' Fox said last night: 'Language is powerful. To accuse someone of racism without any evidence whatsoever to back up that accusation is a deep slander. Former couple: Laurence and Billie split in 2016 after nine years of marriage. They share two sons, Winston, 11, and Eugene, eight (pictured 2015) 'It carries the same stigma and reputation destroying harm as accusing someone of paedophilia. Here endeth the lesson.' The row comes after the actor, who recently announced he was launching his own political party to 'reclaim British values', denounced the supermarket on Twitter. He said: 'Dear Sainsbury's 'I won't be shopping in your supermarket ever again whilst you promote racial segregation and discrimination. I sincerely hope others join me. RT' It came after Sainsbury's announced they would be marking Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements of the black community, recognising the central role black people have played in history. The supermarket says it's aim is to be 'the most inclusive retailer' where 'every single one of our colleagues feels safe and supported at work'. Recent: On Sunday Laurence said he will not be shopping at Sainsbury's after they announced they would be celebrating Black History Month which Fox said was promoting 'racial segregation' His response sparked debate on Twitter with some backing his views while others said Sainsbury's tweet had had the desired effect. He announced last month that he was launching a new political party called the Reclaim Party in a bid to 'reclaim British values'. The actor has received substantial sums from former Tory donors and hopes to stand dozens of candidates across the UK. Fox was involved in a heated debate with the academic and ethnicity lecturer Rachel Boyle after she called him 'a white privileged male' on BBC's Question Time. He then accused Ms Boyle, an academic at Edge Hill University on Merseyside, of 'being racist' after she called him 'a white privileged male' for denying the Duchess of Sussex was hounded from Britain for being mixed-race. Tweet: Sainsbury's said anyone who is not happy with 'an inclusive retailer' is welcome to shop elsewhere as it says it is proud to celebrate Black History Month with their communities As the row continued the following day he quoted Martin Luther King's 1963 'I have a dream' speech about living in a nation where children 'will not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character'. He said: 'This is the position I took last night and I live by in life. If you can improve on it, I'm all ears. Or you can keep screeching ''Racist!'' at me and I can carry on having a jolly good giggle at your expense. The tide is turning'. Twitter storm: The actor is embroiled in a heated exchange with a number of Twitter users including the deputy chair of the Stonewall charity, Simon Blake Fox found himself in a fiery debate with Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp Fox has since removed the posts, writing: 'I have deleted the tweets posted yesterday, in response to being repeatedly, continuously and falsely smeared as a racist.' At the weekend Fox found himself in a fiery debate with former Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp (pictured) - after she said Fox was 'unequivocally, publicly and undeniably a racist' The next day he revealed he does not date women under the age of 35 because they are 'too woke' and many of them are 'absolutely bonkers' during an interview with the Delingpod podcast. During the podcast, Fox said that he called off a relationship with a former partner because she praised a Gillette advert which highlighted 'toxic masculinity.' Less than a week later, Fox made an apology for his comments about the inclusion of a Sikh soldier in the First World War film 1917 by Sir Sam Mendes. The actor had initially referred to 'the oddness in the casting' of a Sikh soldier and was met by widespread criticism by historians who confirmed that Sikhs had served in the British Army. Fox later tweeted: 'Fellow humans who are Sikhs, I am as moved by the sacrifices your relatives made as I am by the loss of all those who die in war, whatever creed or colour. 'Please accept my apology for being clumsy in the way I expressed myself.' In June, in a piece for the Spectator, Fox questioned if Meghan Markle stepped down as a working royal because she did not get the 'limelight' In September 2020, Fox said that he had been 'cancelled' by fellow actor Rebecca Front because she had blocked him on Twitter over his use of the 'All Lives Matter' counter-slogan in response to the Black Lives Matter movement. Fox later apologised for revealing this through tweeting a private text conversation between the pair, in which Front had explained her reasons for blocking him. Outspoken: Fox, who sparked controversy when he said suggestions of 'racism' over how the Duchess of Sussex was treated in some quarters was 'boring', announced last month that he was launching a new political party called the Reclaim Party in a bid to 'reclaim British values' WATERLOO Projects connecting youth and seniors with dementia in Waterloo Region can get upwards of $500,000 through a new funding program. The Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging will be distributing nearly $1.4 million from the federal government over three years to local projects that support older adults living with dementia and their care partners by connecting them in meaningful ways with high school and post-secondary aged youth. We really hope that we can build on whats already happening in the community, said project manager Neb Zachariah. Social isolation is normally a big issue for seniors with dementia, and now thats amplified during the pandemic. Funds will be handed out to one to five projects, each getting between $50,000 to $500,000. Projects must be a partnership between two organizations working together to connect generations. The plan is to distribute the money to best meet community needs, hopefully to a variety of programs that are either new or existing ones that will be expanded. Weve got lots of flexibility, Zachariah said. She said its vital for well-being for people to feel like theyre connected and contributing to their community. Intergenerational programs dont only benefit older adults living with dementia, but also the youth who will feel involved and can learn from the seniors. Theyll be able to share their experiences with one another, Zachariah said. The application deadline is Oct. 16 and the recipients will be notified by mid-November, allowing the successful organizations to quickly build programs. Celebrity The Daily Beast Reuters/Arnd WiegmannTheatrical rock superstar Meat Loaf, whose Bat Out of Hell is one of the bestselling albums of all time, has died at the age of 74. Reports say the singer and actor had recently fallen sick with COVID-19.In an emotional statement posted to Facebook early Friday, the performers family said he was with his wife when he died and had said his final goodbyes to his two daughters in the past 24 hours. The star sold 100 million albums in his five-decade career and starred in movie NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Ziotag Inc., pioneering New York area based technology startup that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to make searching and navigating video and audio content a seamless experience, announced today that it has entered a partnership with Infobase Holdings, Inc. to provide AI powered deep-tagging and classification services for Infobase's library of educational videos for the K-12, University, and Library marketplace. Ziotag will leverage Infobase's existing library of content to automatically tag and classify new content to be included in the Infobase offerings. With Ziotag, Infobase will vastly improve its search capabilities for over 160 million users globally. Ziotag's groundbreaking platform leverages AI and semantic web technology to automatically tag and classify content for any video or audio file. The platform automates the tagging and classification process and breaks the media into chapters and sections, called "Ziotags," delivering users directly to the relevant moments of the content that match their search query. With Ziotag, enterprises can automatically search for sections of video by topic, speaker, or both. Ziotag takes isolated islands of information and makes them shareable, reusable, and most importantly, immediately discoverable and accessible. Jeffrey Paul, Ziotag CEO and Co-Founder, stated, "Ziotag is transforming the way that enterprises tag, classify, share and watch educational content. It is improving the way that people interact with content and it delivers a more satisfying viewing experience. Partnering with Infobase validates our vision and accelerates our growth." Paul Skordilis, Infobase President and CEO, stated, "We are delighted to partner with an exciting company like Ziotag and are committed to bringing our educators, learners, and professionals groundbreaking technology that makes our content more efficient and easy to discover. We know that users have limited time to find the most relevant information possible. Partnering with Ziotag fulfills our promise to consistently deliver solutions that make learning more fulfilling and efficient in a digital world." About Ziotag Inc.: Ziotag is an AI-powered video player that makes searching and navigating video content a seamless experience. Any enterprise or organization that is using video as part of its growth strategy will realize greater customer retention through Ziotag's improved search functionality. Simply copy and paste the URL of any online video or audio, and Ziotag will automatically generate transcripts, create an Actionable Table of Contents (AToC) by understanding the context of the conversations in the video while adding "deep tags" to each segment in the AToC. For more information, visit www.ziotag.com. About Infobase Holdings, Inc.: Infobase, a Centre Lane Partners portfolio company, is the esteemed provider of the Infobase Media Cloud and the Infobase Learning Cloud, which deliver award-winning multimedia reference content, online tools and technology, and professional development and training solutions to the school, academic, and public library communities. Enabled by such well-known brands as Facts On File, Learn360, Credo, The Mailbox, Films Media Group, Bloom's, Ferguson's, and Vault, Infobase provides students, educators, librarians, and parents with the broad range of solutions they need to inspire, enable, and inform lifelong learners. For more than 75 years, Infobase has been a reliable, authoritative resource providing flexible options for accessing educational content whether in school, at the library, or at home. To learn more, visit www.Infobase.com. SOURCE Infobase Related Links https://www.infobase.com The 19th-amendment icon Susan B. Anthony is the latest Barbie in Mattels Inspiring Women collection. Mattel says, "Barbie recognizes all female role models. The Inspiring Women Series pays tribute to incredible heroines of their time -- courageous women who took risks, changed rules and paved the way for generations of girls to dream bigger than ever before. On November 5, 1872 while protesting and leading the charge for womens voting rights, Susan B. Anthony made a defiant move. She voted in the presidential election and was arrested at her home in Rochester, N.Y. This bold act, coupled with Susans determined spirit, helped pave the way for passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which prevents a woman from being denied the right to vote on the basis of sex. Barbie celebrates Susans pioneering efforts and far-reaching impact with the Inspiring Women Series Susan B. Anthony Barbie doll." The doll wears a floor-length black dress accented with lace. She wears glasses. Her lace collars is fastened with a brooch. Previous dolls in the series were Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Jean King, Florence Nightingale, Rosa Parks and Sally Ride. The Susan B. Anthony doll sells for $29.99. READ MORE "You have good genes," President Trump told a mostly white crowd at a campaign rally Sept. 18 at a Bemidji, Minn., airport. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press) President Trump has alarmed Jewish leaders and others with remarks that appeared to endorse "racehorse theory" the idea that selective breeding can improve a country's performance, which American eugenicists and German Nazis used in the last century to buttress their goals of racial purity. "You have good genes, you know that, right?" Trump told a mostly white crowd of supporters in Bemidji, Minn., on Sept. 18. "You have good genes. A lot of it is about the genes, isn't it? Don't you believe? The racehorse theory. You think we're so different? You have good genes in Minnesota." Rabbi Mark Diamond, a senior lecturer on Jewish studies at Loyola Marymount University, was stunned. To hear these remarks said at a rally in an election campaign for the presidency is beyond reprehensible, said Diamond, the former executive vice president of the Board of Rabbis of Southern California. This is at the heart of Nazi ideology This has brought so much tragedy and destruction to the Jewish people and to others. Its actually hard to believe in 2020 we have to revisit these very dangerous theories. The Trump campaign did not respond to requests for comment. Trump's remark was not the first time that he has spoken favorably about the racehorse analogy, which has been embraced by white supremacists for decades. But these latest comments come as the country has been roiled over racial injustice and the protests against it. Trump has continued to make inflammatory remarks and his campaign has made blatantly racist appeals. During the presidential debate Tuesday, he touched upon the genetic theory, returning to a frequent sentiment that one's skills are innate. You could never have done the job we did, Trump said to former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic nominee. You dont have it in your blood. Trump has long spoken about his beliefs in the superiority of his genes, dating back to his days as a Manhattan developer; he's talked less frequently of his belief in the racehorse theory, which basically calls for using breeding to encourage desirable traits and eliminate undesirable traits. Story continues Initially used for horses, the theory was ultimately used to justify selective breeding of people, including forced sterilization laws that were on the books in 32 states and used in some of them up through the 1970s. Scientists who study human intelligence and accomplishment generally agree that while genetics may play some role, the success of individuals is heavily shaped by their environment, including their families and neighborhoods, as well as other factors including mentoring some people receive and simple chance. Trump views the issue differently. You can absolutely be taught things. Absolutely. You can get a lot better. But there is something. You know, the racehorse theory, there is something to the genes," Trump told Larry King on CNN in 2007. "And I mean, when I say something, I mean a lot. Three years later, he told CNN that his father was successful and it naturally followed that he would be too: I have a certain gene. I'm a gene believer. Hey, when you connect two racehorses, you usually end up with a fast horse. And I really was you know, I had a a good gene pool from the standpoint of that. He used the phrase again at a 2016 campaign rally in Iowa, and his eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., told his fathers biographer that the family believed in the theory. Like him, Im a big believer in racehorse theory. Hes an incredibly accomplished guy, my mothers incredibly accomplished, shes an Olympian, so Id like to believe genetically Im predisposed to better-than-average, Trump Jr. told Michael D'Antonio in a 2014 interview, according to a transcript provided by the author. D'Antonio, now a Trump critic whose scathing biography "Never Enough" was published in 2015, vividly recalled the interview. I happened to have done a book on eugenics so I knew exactly what he was talking about, I knew where it came from, said DAntonio, who had written a nonfiction book about the confinement of learning-disabled orphans in Massachusetts. This was something American pseudo-scientists taught the Nazis. It sent a chill through me. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, some mainstream scientists and elected officials in the United States, particularly in California, urged "the improvement" of the citizenry through eugenics. The concept was often used against people of color, Jewish people and Native Americans, but it was also used against white people who were deemed "feeble-minded," delinquent or otherwise damaged. Eugenics arose in the U.S. as the gains Black people had made during the Reconstruction era came under attack by white people aiming to maintain power, often by murder and mob violence. It was also used to argue against immigration by Italians and others. Across the U.S., there were two avenues that eugenicists used to exploit what they thought of as the racehorse theory of human development," DAntonio said. The first was to encourage people deemed to have superior traits to have large families. These efforts were partly encouraged by "fitter family" competitions at state fairs, where well-nourished white families would be judged on their height, weight, size of their heads and symmetry of their faces alongside the competitions for the heartiest livestock and largest crops. Winners would frequently be recognized in newspapers. (Nazi Germany ran the Lebensborn program to cultivate Aryan traits. The state provided support to pregnant women mostly unmarried deemed racially "pure"; many of the babies were given to German couples, often SS officers and their families.) The second avenue in the U.S. was institutionalization and sterilization. Children, often minorities, who were deemed troubled or labeled with the term "imbeciles" were confined to institutions. More than 65,000 people were "officially" sterilized against their will, said Paul Lombardo, a Georgia State University law professor who specializes in bioethics, though he suspects the actual number is far larger. He said eugenics theory was used to justify forced sterilization laws, as well as immigration restrictions and miscegenation prohibitions. American eugenicists conversed with German leaders in the 1920s and 1930s, and their policies became part of the Nazi playbook. In "Mein Kampf," Adolf Hitler wrote approvingly about the United States' immigration restrictions, Lombardo said. At the Nuremberg trials, after World War II, Nazi defenders noted that Americans had also forcibly sterilized people and quoted a U.S. Supreme Court ruling from the 1920s that said state laws allowing such procedures did not violate the Constitution, said Lombardo, who has written two books on the history of eugenics in the U.S. "When Trump says at a rally in Minnesota, 'You have good genes, I believe in the racehorse theory of heredity,' he has all of the earmarks of a classic eugenicist," Lombardo said. "It has been astounding to me as somebody who has studied this stuff for 40 years that any public figure would be willing to use that kind of language that so clearly echoes the kinds of things we heard from the people who were running the eugenics movement back in the '20s and '30s." Rob Eshman, the former editor of the Jewish Journal who is now the national editor of the influential Jewish American online newspaper the Forward, said Trumps language was a clear signal to his supporters who harbor racist or anti-Semitic views. Racehorse theory "is basically like a forerunner to eugenics theory, which led to the Nazis' 'final solution,'" Eshman said after Trump's Minnesota comments. Its one of the least coded messages he has sent." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Ukraine has reported four violations of the ceasefire regime by Russia-occupation forces in Donbas over the past day, with no casualties reported, the press service of the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) has reported. "In the past day, October 4, the Russian Federation's armed formations violated the ceasefire four times. In particular, the enemy used rifles near the town of Avdiyivka and the village of Katerynivka, as well as an automatic grenade launcher near the village of Vodiane. In addition, the invaders fired an under-barrel grenade launcher and rifles near the village of S humy. The shots posed no threat to the lives and health of Ukrainian troops so the Joint Forces did not return fire. No casualties were reported among Ukrainian personnel in the past day," the JFO staff said in its morning update on Facebook on Monday morning. Since Monday midnight, Russian mercenaries have carried out another shelling attack of the positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. "Since Monday midnight, one ceasefire violation by the enemy with the use of an under-barrel grenade launcher has been recorded near the village of Novoluhanske. The ceasefire is respected in the rest of the areas along the entire contact line," the JFO staff said. This powerful combination the comfort and convenience of connections around the world, the isolation and distortion of an echo chamber is common to many social media platforms. But WeChat is unique on the American digital landscape in that it has quietly and profoundly reshaped the immigrant experience for one of the nations fastest growing ethnic populations, the estimated 5 million people of Chinese descent living in America. National chairman of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) Marcel Ciolacu said a possible decision by the Social Democrats to vote on a legislative proposal to postpone this year's general election will depend on the developments in the COVID-19 pandemic. Asked if PSD will support the legislative proposal of independent MP Adrian Dohotaru to postpone the general election, Ciolacu said that the decision will depend on the "management of the pandemic"."We will see at that time, depending on how the pandemic has developed. It is not PSD to postpone the election. If we have 4,000 infections a day, I think a vote in Parliament to postpone the election will be legitimate(...). Currently the matter is not up for a vote. We will see how the pandemic develops. (...) The bill should be voted on by several political forces to pass through Parliament (...) At the moment, we have an infection rate of 25% . It is not PSD postponing the election. PSD is preparing for the election to be held on December 6. If the Government manages pandemic just as catastrophically, postponing the election can be likely," Ciolacu said on Monday after a meeting of the PSD National Political Council.Non-affiliated MP Adrian Dohotaru announced having lodged a bill with the Senate on Friday suggesting the postponement of the general election to March 14, 2021.The legislative proposal entered the legislative circuit, having been sent by the Senate's Standing Bureau to the Government, the Legislative Council and the Economic and Social Council for approval, interim Chairman of the Senate Robert Cazanciuc said on Monday. NEWTOWN TOWNSHIP >> Newtown Township will be applying for federal funding to bolster its career firefighting force. And its crossing its fingers and hoping the third times a charm. At its Jan. 12 meeting, the board of supervisors voted unanimously to resubmit its SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) grant application to the Federal Emergency Management Agency to... CANCUN, Mexico - Delta rapidly intensified into a Category 4 hurricane with 140 mph (225 kmh) winds Tuesday on a course to hammer southeastern Mexico and then continue on to the U.S. Gulf coast this week. The worst of the immediate impact was expected along the resort-studded northeastern tip of Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula, where hurricane conditions were expected Tuesday night and landfall early Wednesday. From Tulum to Cancun, tourism-dependent communities still soaked by the remnants of Tropical Storm Gamma could bear the brunt of the storm. In Cancun Tuesday, long lines stretched at supermarkets, lumber yards and gas stations as residents scrambled for provisions under mostly sunny skies. Officials warned that residents should have several days of water and food on hand. Boat owners lined up at public ramps to pull their boats out of the water. Mexico began evacuating tourists and residents from coastal areas along its Riviera Maya Tuesday. Quintana Roo Gov. Carlos Joaquin said that buses were already carrying people off Holbox Island and hotels in Cancun and Puerto Morelos were busing their guests inland to government shelters. Some hotels that had exemptions because their structures were rated for major hurricanes were preparing to shelter their guests in place and testing their emergency systems. When the alarm blared at the Fiesta Americana Condesa hotel, Lizeth Elena Garza Hernandez, 35, rushed out of her room carrying in her arms her 10-month-old daughter, Hannah Cienfuegos. She had arrived Sunday from Reynosa, Tamaulipas with her husband, 4-year-old daughter and her parents-in-law. Im scared because we dont know how it could impact here, because weve never been in a situation like it, she said. Joseph Potts, a deputy sheriff from Denver, Colorado, took care of his 3-year-old son near a kiddie pool while his wife attended an emergency information session about the hurricane. The hotel offered to shelter guests at a ballroom inside the hotel, but a short time later after the storm intensified the hotel told them they would all be moved to a university in Cancun. The hurricane kind of popped up overnight and we just want to get it over with and go back to the beach, Potts said. Cancun Mayor Mara Lezama Espinosa said that the city had opened more shelters than usual to give people more space in recognition of the COVID-19 pandemic. State Tourism Minister Marisol Vanegas said there were currently 40,900 tourists in all of Quintana Roo. That number is a fraction of what it would normally be due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The areas economy was devastated by months of pandemic-caused lockdown. At the Moon Palace resort just south of Cancun, hundreds of guests from Moon Palace hotels on Cozumel, Isla Mujeres and beachfront rooms were being moved into a hurricane shelter at the resorts large exposition centre. Bedding, food and entertainment were being provided at the expo centre for guests until the hurricane passes, said Cessie Cerrato, the public relations manager for Palace Resorts. Its massive, Cerrato said of the convention hall. Its super safe and further away from the water. Given the coronavirus pandemic, the hall will allow safe distancing, and face masks will be required for guests. The state ordered all non-essential businesses to close by 1 p.m. and banned the sale of alcohol. Hurricane-strength winds were expected by Tuesday evening and landfall to occur near Puerto Morelos just south of Cancun between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. Wednesday. Just south of Puerto Morelos in Playa del Carmen, tourist Zena Koudsi of Charlotte, North Carolina was taking a final walk along the beach before Delta hit. Never been to a hurricane area, Koudsi said. Never been to Mexico. I was expecting maybe more sun, less waves, but, you know, were trying to make the best of it. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Tuesday that 5,000 federal troops and emergency personnel were being made available in Quintana Roo to aid in storm efforts. The states airports remained open Tuesday morning, but beaches were closed. I honestly dont see much that will stop it until it reaches Yucatan, due to low vertical wind shear, high deep-layer moisture, and the very warm and deep waters of the northwestern Caribbean, National Hurricane Center forecaster Eric Blake said. Cubas westernmost province and the Cayman Islands were under tropical storm warnings on Tuesday as Delta shifted west. Its expected to arrive with an extremely dangerous storm surge raising water levels by as much as 7 to 11 feet (2.1 to 3.3 metres) in the Yucatan, accompanied by large and dangerous waves, and flash flooding inland. Deltas centre Tuesday was about 260 miles (420 kilometres) east-southeast of Cozumel, Mexico, moving west-northwest at 16 mph (26 kmh). Once it moves on from Mexico, its expected to regain Category 4 status over the Gulf as it approaches the U.S. coast, where landfall around Friday would be followed by heavy rainfall across the southeastern United States. While there is large uncertainty in the track and intensity forecasts, there is a significant risk of dangerous storm surge, wind, and rainfall hazards along the coast from Louisiana to the western Florida Panhandle beginning Thursday night or Friday. Residents in these areas should ensure they have their hurricane plan in place and monitor updates to the forecast of Delta, the Hurricane Center said. Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey on Tuesday signed a state of emergency that she said would let officials seek federal aid more quickly if needed later. Beach communities on the Alabama coast are still clearing away the damage from Hurricane Sally, which made landfall at Gulf Shores on Sept. 16, as they warn people to be ready for Hurricane Delta. Back in Cancun, Mexican tourists Stephanie Vazquez, 30, and her husband Fernando Castillo, 38, took one last dip in the pool at the Fiesta Americana hotel in Cancun Tuesday with their 2-year-old Leonardo Castillo Vazquez. Vazquez said she was feeling nervous, worried, about Delta, because it is the first time Ive come here with my son. I feel there is a certain safety that the hotel has provided up to now, I know that we will be well protected, but you never can be 100% sure, because it is nature, and you dont know what will happen, she said. ___ AP writers Seth Borenstein in Washington, Jay Reeves in Birmingham, Ala., Tomas Stargardter in Playa del Carmen, Mexico and Mark Stevenson in Mexico City contributed to this report. Read more about: The Oregon Department of Corrections is weighing ending its connections to community colleges across the state and proposing to move its education program in-house because of a budget shortfall. The DOC currently contracts with six community colleges in Oregon to provide high school diploma equivalency services to inmates across its 14 facilities. Department of Corrections communications manager Jennifer Black told Oregon Public Broadcasting that DOC is proposing the contracts be phased out and the agency hire back those positions as part of the DOC permanent budget going forward. She said nearly 1,000 inmates were enrolled in the Adult Basic Skill Development program as of Sept. 30. During the COVID-19 pandemic, contractors were unable to enter the institutions and ABS (Adult Basic Skills) programming could not be adapted and continued during operation modifications, she said. Converting contractor funding to DOC staff positions will allow the department to continue ABS programming during other disasters or operational restrictions. DOC director Colette Peters sent a letter about the situation this week to Cam Preus, executive director of the Oregon Community College Association. ODOC was already experiencing a projected budget shortfall of $110 million before the pandemic, Peters wrote, which has resulted in $25 million in layoffs and other cost-cutting measures. Peters said that DOC staff met with Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario to discuss the idea of the six colleges working together to create a proposal standardizing services. Treasure Valley was clear that such a proposal would not be forthcoming, Peters wrote. It was stated unequivocally during those meetings that the colleges are independent institutions and that the dynamics between colleges would not result in a unified proposal. DOC has now presented the community college association with requirements in order to continue the relationship. Those requirements include standardizing education programming hours across institutions, offering programming year-round and uniformly structuring and allocating compensation as a percentage of an institutions capacity. Preus said Friday that the six community colleges currently working with DOC are working to respond to Peters' letter. The Oregon Education Association, the statewide teachers' union, is asking the DOC to reconsider the potential move to an in-house education program. -- The Associated Press To the Editor, The first Presidential debate was poor no matter who you might be for. I was hoping to find out where the candidates stood on important issues, but I didnt learn anything new. Too many people, especially, the news media, focus on candidate personalities instead of how people govern or how your life is affected. Clinton and Kennedy were notorious womanizers, but both were good presidents. Instead of personal debates and personalities, we need to look at the party platforms. The platform tells us what is actually being planned if that party gets elected. For instance, the Democratic Party has posted 92 pages describing how the United States will be run should they win in November. You can find it on the internet under 2020 Democratic Party Platform. Several items are very controversial. For instance, it includes abortion for all women and girls. The exact words are We believe that comprehensive health services, including access to reproductive care and abortion services are vital to the empowerment of women and girls. If you are pro-life, you need to take a close look at how the Democrats are going to expand abortion and of course pay for it by the federal government (thats you). So they would remove personal responsibility and make the rest of us pay and that ignores the fact that a human life is being snuffed out. They also promise to require universal background checks, eliminate on-line sale of guns and ammo, and make gun manufactures responsible and liable for how their guns are used. This would effectively destroy gun manufacturing in the U.S. It is working on the wrong end of the gun. Guns dont shoot people, people shoot people. The cities and states with the most restrictive gun laws have some of the highest crime and murder rates. Other promises include free college for everyone and forgiveness of all outstanding student loans. We cant afford this without a huge increase in federal debt. If you worked hard to pay off your student loan you would still have to pay off the loans of those not so responsible. Doesnt seem fair. There are also some interesting things on law and order, the $70 trillion Green New Deal and moving towards socialism. So forget about the personality differences between candidates, look closely at what they are going to do in the next 4 years, and vote accordingly. Gary Mueller Godfrey Immigration candidates have more than 100 different permanent residence pathways to choose from when immigrating to Canada How to immigrate to Canada from India How to immigrate to Canada from India Immigration candidates have more than 100 different permanent residence pathways to choose from when immigrating to Canada How to immigrate to Canada from India Immigration candidates have more than 100 different permanent residence pathways to choose from when immigrating to Canada How to immigrate to Canada from India Immigration candidates have more than 100 different permanent residence pathways to choose from when immigrating to Canada Mohanad Moetaz Aa Accessibility Font Style Serif Sans Font Size A A India is the number one source country for immigrants coming from overseas to Canada. There were about 1,374,710 people of Indian origin in Canada in 2016, according to the census. Since then, the number of Indian immigrants has increased substantially over the last few years. In 2019, Indian citizens accounted for a quarter of the 341,000 immigrants who were welcomed by Canada. In 2015, Indian citizens made up just 14 per cent of Canadas immigrants. When examining the distribution of people who applied through the Express Entry system, Indians accounted for almost half of the principal applicants who were invited to apply for permanent residence between 2017 and 2019. By comparison, only 7 per cent of invitations were issued to immigrants from Nigeria and China, the second and third most common source countries of Canadian immigrants. Assess Your Eligibility Across More Than 100 Canadian Immigration Programs Though Express Entry is the main pathway to Canadian permanent residence, there are over 100 economic-class immigration programs to choose from. Here is a breakdown of some of the options available to Indian citizens and the world. Express Entry Express Entry is the most popular way to immigrate to Canada particularly for skilled workers. To enter the Express Entry pool, you must first be eligible for one of Canadas economic class immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) or Canadian Experience Class (CEC). You will also need results for an English or French language test, and you will need to get an Educational Credential Assessment on any degrees, diplomas, or certificates that you obtained outside of Canada. Once you are in the pool, you will be given a score based on your human capital factors such as your age, work experience, education, language proficiency and other factors. Your score is based on the Comprehensive Ranking System. Canada regularly holds Express Entry draws inviting the highest-ranked candidates to apply for permanent residence. Provincial Nominations In addition to Express Entry, candidates can obtain a provincial nomination for permanent residence. If you are interested in a specific Canadian province or territory, this may be an option. Provinces nominate individuals usually to fill their provincial labour needs. All provinces and territories, except Quebec and Nunavut, participate in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Provincial programs can be one of two types: base programs or enhanced programs. Enhanced programs are where candidates would still need an Express Entry profile to qualify. With base programs, candidates can deal with the provincial government directly. Once a candidate receives a provincial nomination, they are awarded an additional 600 CRS points and would practically guarantee receipt of an Invitation to Apply (ITA). 100 pathways In addition to the economic-class immigration programs and the various PNPs, Canada has many more programs including the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, where small remote communities are able to nominate foreign workers for permanent residence. In addition, Quebec has its own immigration program that is tailored for French-speaking and bilingual candidates. Assess Your Eligibility Across More Than 100 Canadian Immigration Programs 2020 CIC News All Rights Reserved President Donald Trump removes his mask upon returning to the White House from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Monday. Trump spent three days hospitalized for coronavirus. Read more WASHINGTON President Donald Trump staged a dramatic return to the White House after leaving the military hospital where he was receiving an unprecedented level of care for COVID-19. He immediately ignited a new controversy by declaring that despite his illness the nation should not fear the virus that has killed more than 210,000 Americans and then he entered the White House without a protective mask. Trumps message alarmed infectious disease experts and suggested the presidents own illness had not caused him to rethink his often-cavalier attitude toward the disease, which has also infected the first lady and several White House aides, including new cases revealed Monday. Landing Monday night at the White House on Marine One, Trump gingerly climbed the South Portico steps, removed his mask and declared, I feel good. He gave a double thumbs-up to the departing helicopter from the portico terrace, where aides had arranged American flags for the sunset occasion. He entered the White House, where aides were visible milling about the Blue Room, without wearing a face covering. The president left Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where his doctor, Navy Cmdr. Sean Conley, said earlier Monday that the president remains contagious and would not be fully out of the woods for another week but that Trump had met or exceeded standards for discharge from the hospital. Trump is expected to continue his recovery at the White House, where the reach of the outbreak that has infected the highest levels of the U.S. government is still being uncovered. Still, just a month before the election and anxious to project strength, Trump tweeted before leaving the hospital, Will be back on the Campaign Trail soon!!! And in case anyone missed his dont-worry message earlier, he rushed out a new video from the White House. Dont be afraid of it, Trump said of the virus. Youre going to beat it. We have the best medical equipment, we have the best medicines. His remarks were strong, but he was taking deeper breaths than usual as he delivered them. Trumps nonchalant message about not fearing the virus comes as his own administration has encouraged Americans to be very careful and take precautions to avoid contracting and spreading the disease as cases continue to spike across the country. For more than eight months, Trumps efforts to play down the threat of the virus in hopes of propping up the economy ahead of the election have drawn bipartisan criticism. We have to be realistic in this: COVID is a complete threat to the American population, Dr. David Nace of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, said of Trumps comment. READ MORE: Epidemiologists just wanna vomit: Doctors disturbed after Trump removes his mask at the White House Most of the people arent so lucky as the president, with an in-house medical unit and access to experimental treatments, added Nace, an expert on infections in older adults. Its an unconscionable message, agreed Dr. Sadiya Khan of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. I would go so far as to say that it may precipitate or worsen spread. Likewise, Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden, who spent more than 90 minutes on the debate stage with Trump last week, said during an NBC town hall Monday night that he was glad Trump seemed to be recovering well, but theres a lot to be concerned about 210,000 people have died. I hope no one walks away with the message that its not a problem. Biden tested negative for the virus on Sunday. There was pushback from a prominent Trump political supporter as well. Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas told the Houston Chronicle editorial board that Trump had let his guard down in his effort to show that the country was moving beyond the virus and had created confusion about how to stay safe. READ MORE: White House staff, Secret Service eye coronavirus with fear, anger Conley said that because of Trumps unusual level of treatment so early after discovery of his illness he was in uncharted territory. But the doctor also was upbeat at an afternoon briefing and said the president could resume his normal schedule once there is no evidence of live virus still present. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those with mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19 can be contagious for as many as and should isolate for at least 10 days. Trumps arrival back at the White House raised new questions about how the administration was going to protect other officials from a disease that remains rampant in the presidents body. Press secretary Kayleigh McEnany announced she had tested positive for the virus Monday morning and was entering quarantine. There were also lingering questions about potential long-term effects to the president and even when he first came down with the virus. Conley repeatedly declined to share results of medical scans of Trumps lungs, saying he was not at liberty to discuss the information because Trump did not waive doctor-patient confidentiality on the subject. COVID-19 has been known to cause significant damage to the lungs of some patients. Conley also declined to share the date of Trumps most recent negative test for the virus a critical point for contact tracing and understanding where Trump was in the course of the disease. Only a day earlier, Trump suggested he had finally grasped the true nature of the virus, saying in a video, I get it. But on Sunday afternoon, he ventured out of the hospital while contagious to salute cheering supporters by motorcade an outing that disregarded precautions meant to contain the virus. READ MORE: Secret Service agents, doctors aghast at Trumps drive outside hospital At the hospital, doctors revealed that his blood oxygen level had dropped suddenly twice in recent days and that they gave him a steroid typically only recommended for the very sick. Trumps experience with the disease has been dramatically different from most Americans, who do not have access to the same kind of monitoring and care. While most must cope with their symptoms and fear of whether theyll take a turn for the worse at home and alone, Trump has been staying in the presidential suite of one of the nations best hospitals and has been given experimental drugs not readily available to the public. He returns to the White House, where there is a team of doctors on call with 24-hour monitoring. Trump was leaving the hospital after receiving a fourth dose of the antiviral drug remdesivir Monday evening, Conley said. He will receive the fifth and final dose Tuesday at the White House. Vice President Mike Pence returned to the campaign trail moments after Trump announced he would soon leave the hospital. The vice president boarded Air Force Two to fly to Salt Lake City, where he is to face off against Democratic vice presidential nominee Sen. Kamala Harris on Wednesday. Trump, in his new video, defended his decision to repeatedly flout his own administrations guidelines to slow the spread of the virus, including by holding rallies with thousands of mostly maskless supporters. READ MORE: Not sure how sick Trump is with COVID-19? Pa. doctors are puzzled, too. Apparently referring to any potential danger to himself rather than others, he said: I stood out front. I led. Nobody thats a leader would not do what I did. He added: And I know theres a risk, theres a danger. But thats OK. And now Im better. And maybe Im immune, I dont know. Even before Trumps motorcade outing Sunday, some Secret Service agents had expressed concern about the lackadaisical attitude toward masks and social distancing inside the White House, but there isnt much they can do, according to agents and officials who spoke to The Associated Press. Trumps aggressive course of treatment included the steroid dexamethasone and the single dose he was given Friday of an experimental drug from Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. that supplies antibodies to help the immune system fight the virus. Trump on Friday also began a five-day course of remdesivir, a Gilead Sciences drug currently used for moderately and severely ill patients. The drugs work in different ways the antibodies help the immune system rid the body of virus, and remdesivir curbs the viruss ability to multiply. Madhani reported from Bethesda, Md. Associated Press writers Lauran Neergaard and Jonathan Lemire in Washington, and Bill Barrow in Wilmington, Del., contributed to this article. This is a new strategy for Treasure & Bond that will enable the brand to offer more localized support in key communities Nordstrom serves. Previously, the brand's beneficiary changed each year, donating to nationally acclaimed charities such as YWCA, Boys and Girls Club and more. "Our new strategy of partnering with smaller organizations in specific regions allows us to connect with the communities where we do business in an impactful way," said Jennifer Jackson Brown, EVP, President of Nordstrom Product Group at Nordstrom. "Treasure & Bond's give-back promise remains at the heart of the brand, and we're excited to show our customers another way Nordstrom is working to leave the world better than we found it." The organizations include: The Ali Forney Center in New York City; Covenant House in Toronto; The Night Ministry in Chicago; YouthCare in Seattle and Youth Emerging Stronger in Los Angeles. About the Beneficiaries The Ali Forney Center ( New York, NY ) provides LGBTQ young people a safe, dignified and nurturing environment meeting their housing needs and support so that they may begin to put their lives back together. Covenant House ( Toronto, ON ) provides life-changing care with unconditional love and respect to youth experiencing homelessness and survivors of sex trafficking. They offer housing options, health and well-being support, training and skill development, and ongoing care once youth move into the community. The Night Ministry ( Chicago, IL ) provides housing, health care and human connection to members of our community struggling with poverty or homelessness. With an open heart and an open mind, The Night Ministry accepts people as they are and addresses their immediate physical, emotional, and social needs while affirming their sense of humanity and helping them build lives of stability. YouthCare ( Seattle, WA ) works to end youth homelessness and to ensure that young people are valued for who they are and empowered to achieve their potential. Through a combination of individualized services tailored to young people's needs and a trusting relationship with a caring adult, YouthCare ensures that young people experiencing homelessness achieve long-term stability. Youth Emerging Stronger ( Los Angeles, CA ) provides runaway, homeless and foster youth with safety, stability and housing, along with relationships and resources to thrive now and in the future. Treasure & Bond is available in Nordstrom stores and online at Nordstrom.com. Product images can be found on the Nordstrom Press Room . About Corporate Social Responsibility at Nordstrom For 119 years, the company's focus has been on its customers and how to deliver the best possible service to meet their expectations. That's why Nordstrom is continuing to work to reduce its impact on the environment, give back to the communities in which they serve, cultivate safe workplaces for the people who make their products; and strive to provide their employees with a great place to work. In 2019, the company donated nearly $11 million to 392 organizations in every community where Nordstrom does business. Many of these organizations provide basic necessities to kids and families so they can thrive and reach their full potential. Additionally, earlier this year, Nordstrom announced its 2025 Corporate Social Responsibility Goals, which can be found here. Media Contacts Nordstrom Meliz Andiroglu [email protected] About Nordstrom Nordstrom, Inc. is a leading fashion retailer based in the U.S. Founded in 1901 as a shoe store in Seattle, today Nordstrom operates 355 stores in 40 states, including 100 full-line stores in the United States and Canada; 248 Nordstrom Rack stores; two clearance stores; and five Nordstrom Local service hubs. Additionally, customers are served online through Nordstrom.com, Nordstrom.ca, Nordstromrack.com, HauteLook.com and TrunkClub.com. Nordstrom, Inc.'s common stock is publicly traded on the NYSE under the symbol JWN. SOURCE Nordstrom, Inc. Related Links www.nordstrom.com The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) has confirmed Russia's request for the global watchdog to dispatch experts to the country as the Kremlin faces accusations of being behind the poisoning of opposition figure Aleksei Navalny. The Hague-based OPCW said in a statement on October 5 that four days earlier it had received a request to "consider dispatching experts from the Technical Secretariat to the Russian Federation in order to cooperate with Russian experts." In his response to the Russian authorities, OPCW Director-General Fernando Arias said "a team of experts could be deployed on short notice," but he also "sought further clarification from the Russian Federation on the type of expertise contemplated. The 44-year-old Navalny was discharged on September 22 from the Berlin hospital where he was being treated for what Germany has said is a case of poisoning with a Soviet-style nerve agent In an interview published on October 1, his first since his recovery, Navalny said he believed that Russian President Vladimir Putin was behind the poisoning in August that almost killed him. The Kremlin said the accusation was unacceptable, groundless, and insulting. In his interview, the longtime Kremlin critic said his health continues to improve after spending 32 days in the clinic, including 24 days in an intensive care unit. Navalny collapsed aboard a flight from Siberia to Moscow on August 20 and spent nearly three weeks in an induced coma. After 48 hours in a hospital in Omsk, where Russian doctors said they found no trace of any poisoning, Navalny was transferred to the Charite hospital in Berlin. Doctors there found traces of a Novichok-like nerve agent in his body. Their findings were independently confirmed by laboratories in France and Sweden, sparking international condemnation. Moscow denied that Russia or the Soviet Union had ever developed or made the family of nerve agents at the center of the international findings, Novichok, despite decades of overwhelming evidence to the contrary. The Russian government has also resisted international pressure to launch a criminal investigation. Chemical agents such as those in the Novichok group are banned under the Chemical Weapons Convention of 1997 and have never been shown to have been used on the battlefield. But they were used in the 2018 poisoning of a former Soviet intelligence officer Sergei Skripal and his daughter by suspected Russian agents in Salisbury, England. Their development has been attributed to the Soviet State Scientific Institute of Organic Chemistry and Technology, which was jointly run by the Soviet military and the KGB, during the 1970s and 1980s. In addition to foreign intelligence agencies, Russian scientists in the past have come forward to discuss Novichok's development. In an interview on October 3, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said he expected the European Union to impose new sanctions against Russia over the poisoning, saying: "Such a grave violation of the International Chemical Weapons Convention cannot be left unanswered. On this, we're united in Europe." Germany currently holds the rotating presidency of the 27-member bloc. EU leaders are set to discuss their reaction and possible sanctions against Russia during their next summit on October 15-16. With reporting by Reuters The longtime head of the National Rifle Association is reportedly under investigation by the Internal Revenue Service for possible tax fraud, according to reports. Wayne LaPierre, the CEO of the NRA, is having his personal finances probed by the IRS, according to the Wall Street Journal. Mr LaPierre was paid $2.2m by the NRA in 2018 and in August was charged in a civil suit by the state of New York of taking millions of dollars of unclaimed compensation from the NRA and vendors. An attorney for Mr LaPierre had no immediate comment, the Journal reported. New York State Attorney General Letitia James says these benefits included exotic vacations, free yacht trips and private jet rides for his family. The NRA is not aware of any IRS inquiry but, of course, will fully cooperate with any appropriate requests for assistance, said William A Brewer III, a lawyer for the gun rights group. Mr LaPierre, 70, has run the NRA for nearly 30 years and shaped it into a powerful second amendment lobbying group. Accusations about Mr LaPierres expenses began to emerge in 2019 with leaked documents showing he charged $540,000 on clothing at a store in Beverly Hills, California, to the groups advertising firm. He also sent them the bill for trips to Europe and the Bahamas. The NRA has said that the clothing and travel were legitimate business expenses. Mr LaPierre has testified in the New York case that he did not disclose trips on luxury yachts or private jet use for security reasons. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 14:46:13|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Photo taken on Oct. 5, 2020 shows the opening session of the 13th meeting of the 12th Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee (CPVCC) held in the Vietnamese capital city of Hanoi. The 12th Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee (CPVCC) convened its 13th meeting on Monday to discuss the country's socio-economic situation in 2020 and the plan for 2021. (VNA via Xinhua) HANOI, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The 12th Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee (CPVCC) convened its 13th meeting on Monday to discuss the country's socio-economic situation in 2020 and the plan for 2021. The committee under the chair of CPVCC General Secretary and Vietnamese President Nguyen Phu Trong will review the draft documents to be submitted to the 13th National Party Congress, Vietnam News Agency reported. A personnel plan for the 13th CPVCC and other important issues will also be discussed. In his opening speech, Trong noted that delegates need to focus on discussing, analyzing and evaluating the negative effects that the COVID-19 pandemic, global economic recession and major fluctuations of the global markets had on Vietnam's socio-economic development goals and tasks. He called on the delegates to review and approve the draft political report and socio-economic report among others, the news agency reported. On Oct. 3, the official website of the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam was launched, aiming at updating the latest information about party congresses at all levels, said the news agency. News will be published in Vietnamese, English, French, Chinese, Spanish and Russian. Enditem Board meetings are now more effective; the relationship between board and staff is even stronger; and COAA continues working on mega-issues identified by Meeting Expectations that will play a huge part in sustaining the organization, - Howie S. Ferguson, executive director, COAA. Meeting Expectations, a full service association management and event planning company, announced today the addition of leadership consulting services to its suite of services for trade associations and nonprofit organizations. This specialized suite of services will provide associations and nonprofit organizations with the insights and tools to assess, plan and improve both strategic and operational aspects of their organizations. The expanded services feature: Organizational and market assessments Strategic planning facilitation Board of directors orientations and training During a time of high unemployment and uncertainty, associations are stepping up to provide valuable solutions and support like never before, said Karl Kirsch, CAE, vice president at Meeting Expectations. For more than two decades, weve served as strategic advisors to our association clients. The introduction of these specialized consulting services is a natural extension, allowing even more organizations to tap into this expertise even those who dont currently need a full-time association management company. Nonprofit and trade associations choose Meeting Expectations because of its experienced staff, full-service support, and innovative approaches to association management. For more than 28 years, the company has served as a full-time association management partner to trade associations, business leagues, certification bodies and technology user groups. While the the company currently provides management to more than 15 associations, leadership consulting is available as a customized, stand-alone service. There is tremendous value in bringing in an outside party who can make unbiased assessments, facilitate growth, and even just spark renewed enthusiasm within an established organization, continued Kirsch. Through interviews, in-person discussions, small group exercises and other research, Meeting Expectations provided tangible guidance and recommendations that were tailored specifically to COAA and its board, said Howie S. Ferguson, executive director, Construction Owners Association of America (COAA). Board meetings are now more effective; the relationship between board and staff is even stronger; and COAA continues working on mega-issues identified by Meeting Expectations that will play a huge part in sustaining the organization. For more information about Meeting Expectations leadership consulting services, please visit https://meetingexpectations.com/leadership-consulting/. About Meeting Expectations Meeting Expectations is a professional services firm providing full-service association management, meetings and event planning, leadership consulting, and marketing communications services. Established in 1992, the company is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with satellite locations across the U.S., including Denver, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco. In 2019, the company managed 15 associations and executed more than 200 events and incentive travel programs touching the lives of more than 300,000 people. Meeting Expectations has been recognized by MeetingsNet as a CMI Top 25 corporate meeting and incentive company for 14 straight years. Follow Meeting Expectations on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/meeting-expectations/. New Delhi, Oct 5 : Taking the ultra-premium TV experience to a brand new level, Sony on Monday launched PlayStation 5 (PS5) ready 8K television 'Z8H' for Rs 1,399,990 in the India market. The ultra-premium 216-cm (85-inch) Android TV comes with 'X1 Ultimate' picture processor which aims to analyse and process data to power 8K pictures with four times the resolution of 4K for scenes rich in depth, texture and detail. "With 8K, step into the breath-taking world of big-screen where images come to life with absolute blacks and a super-wide viewing angle detail with X-Wide Angle," the company said in a statement. The TV can display incredibly detailed 8K resolution images while also showcasing 4K resolution gameplay images at super-smooth 120 fps. Equipped with Sony's cutting-edge proprietary technologies, Z8H provides extremely smooth gaming experiences which will fully immerse the users in the true next-generation level of transformative play offered by PS5. It has an in-built BRAVIA Game Mode, which allows users to automatically play games on the PS5 console with low latency and you can even control your PlayStation with your TV remote. The TV, now available for purchase, offers images filmed in 4K and 2K as upscaled, close to 8K by 8K X-Reality PRO using a unique 8K database. "The resolution of each subject is then optimised by Object-based Super Resolution to reproduce greater depth, textures, and more realistic picture textures". The Z8H features Sony's Android TV which supports more than 5,000 apps and games from Google Play including YouTube, Netflix, Amazon Video, Disney+ Hotstar. The TV also has a built-in voice assistant. The built-in microphones on the TV will allow viewers to have a truly hands-free experience. It offers Full Array LED and 8K X-tended Dynamic Range Pro with 14X XDR contrast to bring out the peaks of brightness and deeper blacks for dynamic and cinematic experience. The TV is compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit. It can also work with popular smart speakers like Google Home or Amazon Echo, which allow viewers to control the TV and stream content on it just by asking smart speakers. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Akyem Anyinam DCE Hon. Nkansah Panyin 05.10.2020 LISTEN The chiefs of Akyem Anyinam in the Atiwa East District in the Eastern region have raised concerns over the alleged treatment meted out to them as they accuse the District Chief Executive (DCE), Hon. Nkansah Panyin of inciting the residents of the district against Nananom. According to Mr. Okyere Boateng who is the traditional council's secretary, Nananom is supervising town road construction in Anyinam which would help give a better edifice to the Anyinam township but the DCE is sabotaging the activities of Nananom. He added that after a notice to the occupants in unauthorized places to move their properties or the contractors will pull down structures, the owners failed to comply. Mr. Okyere Boateng explains that this has brought misunderstandings and the DCE came in to incite the affected residents to take Nananom on. Anyinam streets construction has been halted as the DCE of Atiwa East Assembly allowed streets occupants to take Nananom to court. Witness statement from the street occupants read that DCE Hon Nkansah Panyin went round and told them that the construction would not affect anyone and as such Nananom deliberately allowed the contractor to pull down their structures on the streets. He, therefore, told the affected occupants to go Court. Because of this, the rest of the street occupants are feeling reluctant to quit from the streets to be constructed, the release reads. However, in a phone interview with the DCE of Atiwa East, Hon. Nkansah Panyin, he denied all the allegations and said they are attempts to destroy his reputation because never has he done that or will he ever do that because development is his priority. He explained further that the contract is a government of Ghana project. A contract that was awarded, started under the erstwhile John Dramani Mahama's administration and is to continue under him. It is not true. I am not sabotaging anyone and I have not incited anyone to take Nananom to court. When I became the DCE, the project was already awarded and the chiefs are supervising. I expected the contractor to even come to the assembly and alert us that he is working in our district but as I speak with you, I don't know him. He has never shown up, the DCE said. He said, one woman, came to report to him that the contractor wants to pull down her property. "I even advised her that she exercise patience so I see to the root. But before I said Jack, they have pulled down her property. So she took the case to court. I know nothing about it, I didn't tell her to go to court, the DCE added. Cambodian navy personnel walk on a jetty at the Ream naval base during a government-organised media tour in July, 2019 Cambodia has razed a US-funded defence facility on its southern coast, the deputy prime minister confirmed Sunday, the latest move in the ongoing controversial expansion of a strategically crucial naval base being developed with Chinese aid. The Wall Street Journal reported last year on a secret draft deal allowing China to dock warships at the Ream naval base near the kingdom's coastal city of Sihanoukville. But Cambodia -- awash in recent years with Chinese investments -- has strenuously denied the report, although strongman premier Hun Sen has said aid from Beijing will fund the naval base's development. Satellite images released by the Center for Strategic and International Studies this week showed a US-funded facility on Ream's naval base had been demolished, raising questions "about rumoured Chinese access", said the Washington-based think tank. But Tea Banh, Cambodia's deputy prime minister and defence minister, dismissed concerns Sunday. "We relocated the facility to a new spot. We cannot keep it anymore and the building is already old," he told AFP, confirming that it was knocked down last month. The Tactical Headquarters of the National Committee for Maritime Security was inaugurated in 2012. It will be "far better" in its new location, Tea Banh said, adding that Cambodia used "only a small assistance" from the US for the now-demolished building. The new facility is currently under construction about 30 kilometres (18 miles) north of Ream. The Ream base has generated scrutiny for its strategic location in the Gulf of Thailand, which would provide ready access to the fiercely contested South China Sea -- a key global shipping route. Beijing claims the majority of the resource-rich sea, vying with six other countries. Hun Sen has repeatedly insisted Cambodia's constitution forbids any foreign military base within its borders. Story continues Analysts say the wily premier is deeply attuned to the potential for an anti-China backlash from the public -- especially in Sihanoukville, where businesses and casinos are largely now Chinese-owned. One of the world's longest-serving leaders, Hun Sen has in recent years tilted away from the US due to Washington's criticism of his government's alleged abuses. On Saturday night, he issued a public letter wishing US President Donald Trump a "speedy recovery" from the coronavirus. suy-dhc/fox WSU Celebrates Grand Opening of New Building at WSU Davis in Layton October 2, 2020 Weber State University will host a ribbon cutting for the new Computer & Automotive Engineering Building at WSU Davis in Layton, which opened to classes beginning fall semester 2020. The short program will be streamed live on Weber States Facebook page, Oct. 9 at 4 p.m. The 51,000 square-foot building will help the College of Engineering, Applied Science & Technology (EAST) address the explosive demand for additional workforce in Northern Utah. With growing programs at Hill Air Force Base and the surrounding region, employers are aggressively seeking to recruit more well-educated individuals. For the past five years, Weber State has led state institutions in increasing the number of degrees awarded in engineering and computer science. With thousands of engineering, software, cybersecurity and computing jobs coming to the region to support the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent and work of the 309th Software Engineering Group, more classrooms and technical instructional spaces are needed to support future growth in WSUs programs. We are grateful for the financial investment of the Noorda Foundation, Stewart Education Foundation and Utah State Legislature to make the Computer & Automotive Engineering Building possible, said WSU President Brad Mortensen. This new facility capitalizes on the strategic location of WSU Davis to support Hill Air Force Base and its aerospace and defense industry partners. In addition to six classrooms, the $20 million building features a sandbox or test environment for computer science and software engineering courses. The new home of the automotive technology program has updated automotive shops, including a Tesla learning center and an engine test cell. We have created a new, much-needed home for automotive and computing at WSU Davis, said David Ferro, EAST dean. We now have an innovative, exciting space that will increase our capacity to educate students and support Utahs workforce. GSBS Architects designed the building, and R&O Construction completed construction. The project will also create a new primary entrance to the campus from State Route 193, which will relieve pressure on the existing entry and allow faster access. The entrance is expected to open before the end of 2020. This is the third major building at WSU Davis. During the groundbreaking, the university will also mark the renaming of building D3, which is now called the Stewart Center In honor of the Stewart Education Foundation and its long-standing support of Weber State. We are excited for the future of WSU Davis, said Julie Snowball, assistant vice president of regional partnerships and director of WSU Davis. This campus continues to evolve as a collaborative effort between the quality academic minds of the university and the innovative community which it serves. At the 105 acre campus located at (2750 N. University Park Blvd., Layton, Utah) students have access to a full range of services, general education courses and a wide variety of associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees. Nearly 100 percent of the campus electrical power needs are powered with a seven-acre solar field installed in November 2016. One of the hallmarks of the Davis Campus is the special attention given to meeting the needs of non-traditional and working students. Information about degree and certificate programs available at WSU Davis can be found at weber.edu/davis. Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University. President Muhammadu Buhari has appealed to Nigerians who are aggrieved with some laws to be patient and seek reforms in line with democratic practices. The president made the appeal at a two-day joint executive-legislative retreat designed to promote harmonious working relationship between the two arms of government, held in Abuja on Monday. The new Company and Allied Matters Act 2020 (CAMA) signed into law by President Buhari on August 7, has been generating negative comments from various quarters including religious leaders. One contentious part of the law is section 839 (1) and (2) which empowers the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to suspend trustees of an association (including places of worship) and appoint interim managers to manage the affairs of the association for some given reasons. Many Nigerians, including church leaders, have expressed reservation over some sections of the new Company and Allied Matters Act 2020, and called for its urgent review. However, Mr Buhari had on September 24, in a statement by his spokesperson, Femi Adesina, explained that the recently passed Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020 (CAMA), would entrench transparency and corporate accountability and enhance the fight against corruption. The president, who reminded the citizens that the process of lawmaking and governance are dynamic, said his administration would continue to promote and ensure justice, peace and progress in the country. Let me also remind our fellow patriots, countrymen and women that the process of lawmaking and governance are dynamic and ever evolving. I will seek their indulgence to be patient with any legislation or law which they have certain misgivings about and engage the process for reviewing such law in line with democratic practices. Our interest is the sincere promotion of our collective will and aspirations to build a nation where justice, peace and progress are the norms, he said. On executive/legislative partnership, Mr Buhari stressed the need for more effective collaboration between the two arms of government to share ideas and build consensus on critical governance and policy issues. He noted that the retreat offered an opportunity for the two arms to reflect and engage as one government, for the benefit of all Nigerians. I believe that the principle of separation of powers as enshrined in our constitution is designed to enable all arms of government to work together in cooperative and collaborative manner, through executive and legislative engagements. Let me thank the leadership and members of the ninth National Assembly for the cordial and warm relationship we have enjoyed in the last one year. The quick passage of the 2020 budget and its review in response to the Coronavirus pandemic and the timely confirmation of my nominees and passage of critical legislations by the National Assembly are all testament to your willingness and commitment to play your part towards delivering effective services to Nigerians There is compelling need to sustain and strengthen on this partnership by creating platforms for regular dialogue, consultation and interaction between the Executive and the Legislature to share ideas and build consensus on critical governance and policy issues. This approach will enhance coordination within government and strengthen our capacity to effectively address the challenges of governance, service delivery and development, he said. The president noted with delight that the country had since started reaping the benefits of the cordial relationship of the two arms government. He said: By virtue of our effective partnership and your support, this government has initiated critical reforms targeted at reforming and strengthening our economy, increasing efficiency in governance, consolidating on the repairs carried out in the last four years and putting the country on a steady path of growth and development. The accelerated of the passage of the 2020 budget and its review in response to the Coronavirus pandemic, the timely passage of my nominees and passage of critical legislations by the National Assembly are all testaments to your willingness and commitment to playing your part towards delivering effective services to Nigerians. He thanked the leadership of the NASS for adopting a new legislative agenda, and called for the inauguration of a committee to help sieve the outcome of the retreat and make appropriate recommendations to him and the NASS for implementation. In his remarks, the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, lauded the cordial relationship between the executive and legislative arms of the government. He also commended President Buharis commitment towards sustaining and strengthening the partnership between the two arms. Advertisements Mr Lawan, however, frowned at those describing the national assembly as rubber stamp of the executive. In fact, this relationship is misunderstood by many. Some out of mischief describe the National Assembly as rubber stamped, some out of misunderstanding. For us, what is utmost in our minds in the ninth Assembly is how do we work with the executive to make Nigeria better. If the price to pay is the names that we get, then let it be. Because, we believe that Nigerians deserve better service, better infrastructure and it is difficult if not impossible to achieve meaningful development in this country or any democracy without understanding and harmony in the way and manner the two arms of government work. So far, we have been doing this for over 12 months. So, its time to review this partnership and see the weaknesses in the relationship and the areas we have achieved so much and say this relationship has worked and have achieved some level of improved service delivery. ALSO READ: According to him, the retreat will present opportunities to review and strengthen areas of weaknesses. He, therefore, expressed the hope that the next two days both arms would talk to each other in a frank and truthful manner because what we do here will impact significantly on the polity, governance and Nigerians deserve to have what we promised them. In the same vein, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, who also spoke at the event, said both arms needed to work symbiotically to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people. This two-day engagement will do nothing but to strengthen the relationship between these two critical arms of government and enhance it so that the people will be the better for it. I believe it will be frank, truthful, we will speak truth to each other and I believe the outcome will be to the benefit of all Nigerians, he added. The complexities of the current wave of COVID-19 are spurring regions with rising cases to adopt different measures as they seek to turn the tide of the pandemic, Canadas top public health officer said Monday. Dr. Theresa Tam said public health officials in each area are trying to target their response to local epidemiology and circumstances, but are steering in uncertain waters. No one knows exactly what is going to work, so theres a grey zone and people are doing slightly different things, she said, adding Canadians should nonetheless know to stick with basic strategies such as handwashing, physical distancing and wearing masks. Public co-operation was key to tackling the initial wave of the novel coronavirus and we need to see that again in order to right the ship, she said. Tams comments came as Quebec announced more stringent rules than Ontario when it comes to mask-wearing for students in hard-hit areas, and days after Toronto announced it would scale back contact tracing due to an unsustainable case load. Quebec said it is making mask-wearing mandatory inside high schools in regions at the highest COVID-19 alert level as well as outside on school grounds, at least until Oct. 28. The affected regions include the Montreal and Quebec City areas. Ontario, by comparison, only requires students to wear masks indoors. Both provinces have seen cases spike in recent weeks, with daily tallies reaching highs not seen since the spring, and Ontario is facing a backlog of more than 60,000 tests for processing. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said federal laboratories have freed up space for surge support on test processing, which includes capacity for 1,000 tests from Ontario each day. More federal labs will be made available, he said Monday. Ottawa is also providing contact tracers to Ontario, Quebec and Alberta, he said. Five hundred full-time contact tracers have been supplied to Ontario, he said. The first rapid COVID-19 tests from Abbott Laboratories which can produce a result in 13 minutes at the testing site are also expected to begin arriving in Canada next week, the federal government said Monday. Trudeau said his government prepared for the possibility of a second wave, and brought on new tools, a record amount of personal protective equipment, as well as a contact-tracing app now used in several provinces. Obviously all of that hasnt been enough. We are going in the wrong direction now, which is why it is so important for Canadians to do what is necessary to wear a mask, to keep your distance, to understand that each of us has the power to end this by the choices we make, he said. New COVID-19 case numbers continue to surge in several parts of the country, particularly in Quebec and Ontario, which account for more than 80 per cent of the countrys total cases. Quebec reported 1,191 new COVID-19 cases Monday, the highest single-day total since the beginning of the pandemic, and its fourth straight day with more than 1,000 new diagnoses. Ontario, meanwhile, reported 615 new cases of COVID-19, and five new deaths due to the virus. Ontario Premier Doug Ford acknowledged Monday that the province is reaching its limit when it comes to testing for the virus, saying laboratories are overwhelmed in part due to a shortage of diagnostic technicians. He cited a global shortage in the chemicals needed to process tests as another contributor to the provinces backlog of unprocessed tests. Public health units in several communities are already really tired, Tam said, warning that the kind of accelerated spread seen in some municipalities cannot be managed purely through tests and contact tracing. While the number of hospitalizations has not yet ballooned, the recent resurgence of cases in long-term care and retirement homes suggests more hospitalizations could follow, she said. The health-care system is the next frontier that might be overwhelmed and we want to prevent that, Tam said. Other provinces are also seeing an increase in new cases, and imposing restrictions in response. In Manitoba, where 51 new cases were reported Monday, the government announced it will require bars and other licensed establishments in the greater Winnipeg region to close early in an effort to curb the spread of the virus. Thirty-five of the new cases were in Winnipeg. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has asked President Muhammadu Buhari not to interfere in Saturdays governorship election in Ondo State. In a statement by its national publicity secretary, Kola Ologbodiyan, on Sunday, the party said its candidate, Eyitayo Jegede, enjoys the support of the majority of Ondo people and could only be defeated through federal power. Our campaign had earlier alerted of desperate moves by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to drag in certain officials of the Muhammadu Buhari Presidency as earlier boasted by Governor Rotimi Akeredolu self-confessed thug, Isaac Kekemeke, who exposed plots to use violence and federal might to muscle the election against the wishes and aspirations of the people of Ondo State. The party said its candidate is ready to correct all the mistakes made by the incumbent governor. If Governor Akeredolu had done well in the last four years, he would have been celebrating his achievements instead of threatening the life of opposition and running from pillar to post to manipulate election and seeking to drag in the Presidency. Our campaign therefore calls on President Buhari not to succumb to pressure by a failed Governor and the APC to renege in his resolve not to interfere in elections, as amply witnessed in the September 19 Edo election. We invite Mr President to note the applause and commendations coming to him from all parts of our nation and the global community over the non-interference of his Presidency in the conduct of a free, fair and credible election in Edo state. It urged the president to direct INEC and security agencies to restrict themselves to their statutory responsibilities as the Ondo people are ready to treat violators as fake security and fake INEC operatives. The war between Armenia and Azerbaijan continued for the ninth day on Monday even as both countries have rejected the international community's appeal to end the war. The fighting over the region began on September 27 and has escalated to its deadliest level since the 1990s. Meanwhile, the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has put forward some conditions to end the war saying that if Armenia accepts these conditions, then Azerbaijan will stop the war. Aliyev said that the Armenian army has occupied the territory which it had lost in the 1990s and is deliberately inciting war. If the Armenian army immediately withdraws from the territory, fully describes the withdrawal deadline and apologizes for what they have done, then Azerbaijan is ready to end the war. This is the only way: Aliyev said that Armenia must accept the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, this is the only way to end the war. He further said that the international community has failed to implement the UN resolutions and to pressurize the withdrawal of the Armenian army from Azerbaijan's areas of influence. Intent: It is clear from Aliyev's stance that he has no intention of accepting Russia, US and EU's ceasefire request. At the same time, immediately after Aliyev's speech, the Armenian Defence Ministry has also issued a statement. The Ministry said that there is no threat to us, but still, we are ready to deal with every situation. Earlier, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan had also made it clear that he is not ready for talks with Azerbaijan. This is the biggest danger: Both Armenia and Azerbaijan are accusing each other of inciting war. Civilians have also been targeted from both sides. Seeing the danger of the involvement of superpowers like Russia in this war, both the nations are being appealed to settle the dispute with peace. Several countries including the US have appealed to Armenia and Azerbaijan to stop the war. The danger of Russia, Turkey, France, Iran and Israel joining the war has also increased. This is the root of the dispute: The major reason for the war between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which was part of the former Soviet Union, is the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Azerbaijan calls the mountainous region of this region as its own, while Armenia has occupied this region. The area has been under Armenia's occupation since the fighting ended in 1994. In 2016 too, there was a bloody war between the two countries over this area, in which 200 people were killed. Now both countries are face to face once again. Aliyev on Monday said that Turkey must be involved in the peace process for the Nagorno-Karabakh region, Reuters reported quoting the RIA news agency. The fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces over the separatist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh resumed Monday morning, with both sides accusing each other of launching attacks. Armenian military officials on Monday reported missile strikes hitting Stepanakert, the capital of Nagorno-Karabakh. The region lies in Azerbaijan but has been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia since the end of a separatist war in 1994. Firefights of varying intensity continue to rage" in the conflict zone, Armenian Defence Ministry spokeswoman Shushan Stepanian said on Facebook. The Azerbaijani Defence Ministry, in turn, accused Armenian forces of shelling the towns of Tartar, Barda and Beylagan. Ganja, Azerbaijan's second-largest city far outside of the conflict zone, is also under fire, officials said. Armenia's Foreign Ministry in a statement dismissed allegations of the attacks being launched from Armenia's territory as a disinformation campaign waged by Azerbaijan. Vahram Poghosyan, spokesman for Nagorno-Karabakh's leader, on Monday warned in a Facebook post that the territory's forces would target military facilities in Azerbaijani cities in response to strikes on Stepanakert and Shushi, a town in Nagorno-Karabakh. The fighting erupted September 27 and has killed dozens, marking the biggest escalation in the decades-old conflict over the region. Both sides have accused each other of expanding the hostilities beyond the conflict zone in Nagorno-Karabakh. Nagorno-Karabakh officials have said nearly 200 servicemen on their side have died in the clashes so far. Eighteen civilians have been killed and more than 90 others wounded. Azerbaijani authorities haven't given details about their military casualties but said 24 civilians were killed and 121 others were wounded. Nagorno-Karabakh was a designated autonomous region within Azerbaijan during the Soviet era. It claimed independence from Azerbaijan in 1991, about three months before the Soviet Union's collapse. A full-scale war that broke out in 1992 killed an estimated 30,000 people. By the time the war ended in 1994, Armenian forces not only held Nagorno-Karabakh itself but substantial areas outside the territory's formal borders. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has repeatedly said that Armenia's withdrawal from Nagorno-Karabakh is the sole condition to end the fighting. Armenian officials allege that Turkey is involved in the conflict on the side of Azerbaijan and is sending fighters from Syria to the region. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said that a cease-fire can be established only if Turkey is removed from the South Caucasus. Turkey's government has denied sending arms or foreign fighters, while publicly siding with Azerbaijan in the dispute. We know that switching from owning software outright to paying a subscription is a big change that many people dread. You can actually still buy Office 2019 as a standalone product if you want to stick to tradition. Now that Microsoft has ended support for Office 2010 as of October 13 , upgrading to Office 365 is one of your primary options. The subscription model has its upsides, though. You dont have to fiddle with downloads, discs, or product keys. You get constant updates, including bug fixes, security patches, and new features. Microsofts subscriptions also offer flexibility on how many users and machines can access a product, so you dont have to juggle a bunch of different copies of the same software. Heres how it works. How to update Office 2010 to Office 365 from the current software on your system A straightforward upgrade is actually quite simple. If you have a single standalone PC, it can be accomplished through any of your current Office suite programs. Open Word, Excel, Outlook, or PowerPoint and select File > Account > Update Options, then select Update Now from the drop-down menu. In Outlook, its File > Office Account > Update Options > Update Now. Then just follow the online prompts. JD Sartain / IDG Select updates from Update Options, Update Now Important: Be absolutely certain youre ready to update your software before you click that Update Now button, because it jumps directly to the Internet and launches the update, and its really difficult to cancel it. If youre uncertain, choose View Updates first and review your options before proceeding. Once installed, you can customize the desktop icons and launch the programs. Office will prompt for the new product key when you access the first program. This key has 25 letters and numbers (aka, alphanumeric) and pairs your license to your machine. If you prefer, you can upgrade directly from Microsoft; just go to https://www.office.com/. On the main Welcome to Office menu, click Sign In to begin. Microsoft locates your account, recognizes the current versions on your system, and then provides alternatives for you to select (to purchase or rent). JD Sartain / IDG Get Office product screens Or, you can click Get OfficeRemove non-product link. A product sales screen opens and displays your options under the For HOME tab. Click the For BUSINESS tab to see the business options. Because its not really an upgrade, but another purchase, the previous versions of software on your system are irrelevant to Microsoft except for determining whether to allow or disallow multiple versions to run simultaneously on your system. Microsoft counsels against running multiple versions for a number of reasons. There are compatibility issues between system files (especially with Outlook): Some features are disabled, and some files are overwritten by the newer version leaving the older version without those files. Some commands are either obsolete or changed, which means one or both versions could fail. JD Sartain / IDG Update from the Microsoft store Access the Microsoft Store app from the task bar on your system. Sign in first, and the Microsoft Official Home Page appears. On the bottom left side, click Choose Your Microsoft 365, and, once again, the product sales screen opens and displays the For HOME and For BUSINESS tabs with pricing for all the different combinations of products. Important note: Updating or upgrading the Office products will not affect your files, documents, spreadsheets, and other data. Even if they did, all of the Microsoft programs provide backward-compatible options. However, you should back up your Microsoft Outlook .pst file before you make any changes to your Outlook program. This file is located in one of the following locations: C:UsersAppDataLocalMicrosoftOutlook C:UsersRoamingLocalMicrosoftOutlook You can also back up the .pst file to a CSV file (Comma Separated Values) file, which is compatible with Excel and all databases. Once the new update is installed, use File > Open & Export > Import/Export, then choose an action from the Import & Export Wizard dialog, such as Import from another Program or File. Click Next, then select Comma Separated Values or Outlook Data File (.pst), and follow the prompts to restore your Outlook files. Related stories: A member of the Proud Boys, right, stod in front of a counter protester as members of the Proud Boys and other right-wing demonstrators rallied on Sept. 26 in Portland, Ore. Read more At last weeks presidential debate, President Donald Trump refused to condemn white supremacists and far-right groups like the Proud Boys, an organization that has been known to incite violence. The president's comment telling the Proud Boys to "stand back and stand by" provided a boost to the group on social media, emboldening its members to use Trump's words as a rallying cry. Two days later, amid rising outrage, Trump denounced the group. But then actor and activist George Takei suggested a clever comeback a way to drown out the hate on social media and replace it with something, well, gay. "What if gay guys took pictures of themselves making out with each other or doing very gay things, then tagged themselves with #ProudBoys. I bet it would mess them up real bad. #ReclaimingMyShine," Takei, who is gay, tweeted on Thursday. The call to action went viral over the weekend, with thousands adopting the hashtag and posting images and messages of love and support all with the intent to take over a moniker linked to hate. Noah Reed, a 30-year-old content creator in New York, posted pictures with his fiance, Derek Ivie, a 35-year-old librarian. For Reed, the tweet symbolized more than just jumping on a trend. "Aside from voting, I think a lot of us are trying to do anything we can to really make a difference or, not necessarily silence, but push back the neo-Nazis and the far-right groups that are spreading hatred," Reed said in an interview with The Washington Post on Sunday. Many gay men took the opportunity to post images with their partners and children. "#ProudBoys watching our son graduate," one man tweeted. "#ProudBoys we will never stand back and standby! Together for 25 years with 2 amazing children," another man tweeted. READ MORE: Trump told Proud Boys stand back and stand by. What does that actually mean? | The Angry Grammarian Famous gay figures also joined in, including TV personality Andy Cohen and Bobby Berk from "Queer Eye." Actor Matt Bomer used the hashtag to promote "The Boys in the Band," a movie adaptation of the play about a group of gay men gathered at a birthday party that recently premiered on Netflix. The Twitter account for the Canadian Forces in the United States posted an image with a serviceman in uniform kissing his partner. As of early Monday, the tweet has more than 200,000 likes. The Royal Canadian Navy retweeted the image with the caption: "Our #ProudBoys. Love is love." Allies of the LGBTQ community also participated by retweeting and posting images of family members or gay couples they admire. One woman tweeted an image of Pete Buttigieg, a former Democratic presidential candidate and ex-mayor of South Bend, Ind., and his husband, Chasten, with the caption: "I know two amazing #ProudBoys who have made our Nation PROUD!" Another woman posted an image of her brother and his husband, who got married this summer. And a mom tweeted an image of her transgender son. "My son, who is a highly intelligent, talented, and courageous FtM trans teenager. He gives me hope that his generation can and will stand up to hatred and make the world a better place for all human beings. #ProudBoys," she wrote. Reed said that seeing so many allies join in on the trend was encouraging. "It makes my heart feel joy when I see that not only LGBTQ people are doing this, but also so many other people are supporting it," Reed said. "It is nice when there is solitary and spreading positivity." This is not the first time the Proud Boys have been targeted on Twitter. Leading up to a rally in the District in 2018, the platform suspended over a dozen accounts linked to the group, including the account belonging to its cofounder Gavin McInnes, who also cofounded Vice magazine. (McInnes later distanced himself from the Proud Boys.) The Proud Boys have not responded kindly to the hashtag takeover. On Parler, a conservative social media app, followers of the Proud Boys group expressed outrage, with many commenting on screenshots of the tweets with homophobic slurs, according to Forbes. One member created a meme of Takei making a white supremacist gesture and another replied using Nazi terms like "final solution." Bandwagon campaigns like the #ProudBoys takeover are not always successful, Reed said. He pointed to the campaign #BlackoutTuesday, where people posted black squares on Instagram. It was an effort that may have caused more harm than good, he said, with some arguing that the blank squares tagged with #blacklivesmatter drowned out vital voices and information about protests. But Reed believes this undertaking is different because the stakes are lower. With this one, the worst that can be done from it is that group can be drowned out, so I feel like thats a win, Reed said. A new study examining the link between peanut and tree-nut anaphylaxis in children and holidays found spikes at Halloween and Easter. The study, led by a team of researchers from the Montreal Children's Hospital of the McGill University Health Centre (MCH-MUHC), found that most were previously unknown allergies, calling for increased awareness. "Identifying certain times associated with an increased risk of anaphylaxis - a serious and life-threatening allergic reaction - could help to raise community awareness, support and vigilance," says Melanie Leung, a fourth-year medical student at McGill University and Dr. Moshe Ben-Shoshan, a pediatric allergist and immunologist at the MCH-MUHC and scientist at the Research Institute of the MUHC, with coauthors. "This information would identify the best timing for public awareness campaigns to prevent allergic reactions." Researchers compared anaphylaxis at Halloween, Easter, Christmas, Diwali, Chinese New Year and Eid al-Adha. Data from across the country The study included 1,390 patients visiting participating pediatric emergency departments between 2011 and 2020 in four Canadian provinces: British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The median age of patients was 5.4 years and 62 percent were boys. For peanut-triggered anaphylaxis, there was an 85 percent increase in daily average cases during Halloween and a 60 percent increase during Easter compared with the rest of the year. For anaphylaxis triggered by unknown nuts, there was a 70 percent increase during Halloween and Easter compared with the rest of the year. However, the researchers did not find an increase at Christmas, Diwali, Chinese New Year or Eid al-Adha. "The difference in the anaphylaxis incidence among holidays may have been due to the social setting in which each holiday takes place," says Leung. "At Halloween and Easter, children often receive candies and other treats from people who may be unaware of their allergies. The absence of such an association at Christmas may be because Christmas is a more intimate celebration among family members and close friends, who are more vigilant regarding allergen exposure." Canadian labelling may also be a factor, as individual packages of one-bite candies and snacks, which are exempt from labelling requirements listing ingredients, are popular at Halloween and Easter. Education and awareness key to risk reduction "Our findings suggest that educational tools to increase vigilance regarding the presence of potential allergens are required among children with food allergies, their families and lay people interacting with children who have food allergies. Newer strategies targeting intervals associated with high anaphylaxis risk are required," says Dr. Ben-Shoshan. ### About the study "Risk of peanut- and tree-nut-induced anaphylaxis during Halloween, Easter and other cultural holidays in Canadian children" by Melanie Leung, Ann E. Clarke, Sofianne Gabrielli, Judy Morris, Jocelyn Gravel, Rodrick Lim, Edmond S. Chan, Ran D. Goldman, Paul Enarson, Andrew O'Keefe, Jennifer Gerdts BComm, Derek Chu, Julia Upton, Xun Zhang, Greg Shand and Moshe Ben-Shoshan is published in Canadian Medical Association Journal. This study was supported by operating grant GEN 10-203 from AllerGen Canada. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.200034 Visual abstract: https://www.cmaj.ca/lookup/doi/10.1503/cmaj.200034/tab-related-content RI-MUHC The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC) is a world-renowned biomedical and healthcare research centre. The Institute, which is affiliated with the Faculty of Medicine of McGill University, is the research arm of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) - an academic health centre located in Montreal, Canada, that has a mandate to focus on complex care within its community. The RI-MUHC supports over 420 researchers and close to 1,200 research trainees devoted to a broad spectrum of fundamental, clinical and health outcomes research at the Glen and the Montreal General Hospital sites of the MUHC. Its research facilities offer a dynamic multidisciplinary environment that fosters collaboration and leverages discovery aimed at improving the health of individual patients across their lifespan. The RI-MUHC is supported in part by the Fonds de recherche du Quebec - Sante (FRQS). https://rimuhc.ca/ McGill University Founded in Montreal, Quebec, in 1821, McGill University is Canada's top ranked medical doctoral university. McGill is consistently ranked as one of the top universities, both nationally and internationally. It?is a world-renowned?institution of higher learning with research activities spanning two campuses, 11 faculties, 13 professional schools, 300 programs of study and over 40,000 students, including more than 10,200 graduate students. McGill attracts students from over 150 countries around the world, its 12,800 international students making up 31% of the student body. Over half of McGill students claim a first language other than English, including approximately 19% of our students who say French is their mother tongue. http://www.mcgill.ca/newsroom/ http://twitter.com/McGillU WASHINGTON The Republican super PAC American Crossroads plans to pump about $7 million over the next month into a bid to secure Senator Thom Tilliss North Carolina re-election and save the partys Senate majority, raising fresh questions about partisanship at the United States Postal Service, where one of the political groups leaders holds a powerful post. The infusion which leaders of the group said would bring its total investment in the critical race to more than $20 million will pay to blanket the airwaves in the state with advertisements attacking Cal Cunningham, the Democrat challenging Mr. Tillis in a contest widely seen as a linchpin for control of the Senate. The deep involvement of American Crossroads, which is led in part by Robert M. Duncan, whom President Trump installed at the helm of the Postal Services board of governors, is the latest example of a potential conflict of interest at the highest levels of the agency charged with carrying out vote-by-mail operations for the November elections. Mr. Duncan founded the political group and sits on its board of directors, but its spokesman said he is not involved in day-to-day operations. Still, his position has underscored how a tight-knit circle of Republican donors has risen to power at the Postal Service, and fueled concern among Democrats and government ethics specialists that their partisan preferences could compromise its independence. There really is a reason to feel like this almost sacred institution in American life is being politicized, and these continued actions by Robert Duncan dont do anything to dispel that, said Noah Bookbinder, the executive director of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, a liberal government watchdog group. Young people, according to a recent report, are very confused on the issue of "consent" in an intimate relationship. Some are not entirely clear what "consent" is. Some aren't sure if it's ongoing, or temporary. Some feel unable to voice their consent, or lack of consent, within a relationship. Some lack the confidence to express their "desires and dislikes". Some are worried about feeling bullied, or forced, into sexual relationships, or acts. Some are afraid of repercussions if they refuse to yield. Some are afraid of being judged, rejected, or described as "frigid". So far as I know, a lot of these worries, concerns and doubts have been around for quite a while. I once trawled through the agony aunt pages back in the 1950s. That's a long time ago, so it's history. Relationships were conducted according to different norms. But one thread was constant, when it came to relationships: anxiety. The question that most frequently occurred was from young women who felt under pressure to do as their boyfriends requested. This was the perennial, "Should I sleep with my boyfriend? He says that, if I truly loved him, I should do as he wants." There was also, "He says he will leave me unless I do." Girls also asked: "If I sleep with my boyfriend, will he lose respect for me?" Back in those days, the doyenne of agony aunts, Evelyn Home (real name Peggy Makins) in Woman magazine, invariably replied that sleeping with the boyfriend should only be done when there is a plain gold band on the third finger of the left hand - ie marriage. The agony aunts of this decade were prudish, but they were also protective of young women, who, frankly, might well be left "holding the baby" in those pre-Pill times. In that era, the feelings and desires of the women themselves were seldom explored; that changed as time went by, when a new generation of agony aunts began to encourage women to express their own sexuality and to seek a relationship that was rewarding and satisfying for them. And, yet, the anxieties always continued: the veteran agony aunt Irma Kurtz, who served international Cosmopolitan magazine for many years, says that, although circumstances alter, the same anxieties about relationships arise again and again. In fact, she gave up the gig because the questions became so repetitious. I suppose that, in past times, the rules were simpler and, some would say, crueller. "Thou shalt not," was often the advice given. A woman might pay a high price, either by pregnancy or "loss of reputation" (quite a consideration), for being sexually active. With the demand for equality, the rules changed: they became much more liberated; they also became fuzzier and more complicated. And maybe the young people who are the target audience for explaining these rules should be told the honest truth about sexual relationships; which is that things often are complicated when it comes to "consent". As far as I recall, it can be excruciatingly embarrassing if someone fancies you, but, though the desire is not reciprocated, you don't want to be unkind. It can be excruciatingly embarrassing and humiliating, too, when it's the other way around. And while "No means No" was a catchy phrase, coined with the best of intentions by the feminist movement, unfortunately it is contradicted by numberless songs, legends, novels, movies, operas and movies which we've loved. From Jane Austen to the Hollywood rom-com, the narrative of seduction is about persuading a reluctant object of romantic yearnings to succumb to the lover's ardour. Coercion is odious, but persuasion has been blessed by every form of storytelling that we know. And to repeat, yes, coercion, or any form of force, or bullying, is unacceptable, there is a vocabulary of stigma for those who engaged in such tactics - "cads", "bounders", "rotters", "blaggards". But it would also be untruthful to teach young people that individuals don't get persuaded, charmed, attracted, bewitched, enticed, excited, or enraptured into relationships, at a moment when it all feels entirely voluntary. Human beings are not robots. "Consent" isn't like signing a contractual rental agreement: what you feel on Tuesday may not be what you feel on Friday, particularly if, on Friday, you have partaken of a particularly decent few glasses of Prosecco. Campaigners are, I'm sure, serious and sincere in seeking to guide the young through what can be something of a quagmire. They are, surely, right to encourage self-confidence, to resist pressure to comply for the sake of others; it is also right to report abusive relationships which involve harassment, or exploitation, by a person in a position of power. But tell the truth: sex is frequently complicated; often volatile; not necessarily rational; and there can be unspoken elements. Shakespeare suggests that consent is signalled by a silent message from a woman's eyes: "Sometimes from her eyes I did receive fair speechless messages." This might not stand up in a court of law today, but for some people, and at some times, it may still be what they feel. Photo Illustration by The Daily Beast/Getty/Handout/United Teachers of Dade MIAMILast week, a few days before Donald Trump revealed he came down with COVID-19, Karla Hernandez-Mats went on a coronavirus safety fact-finding mission in South Florida schools ahead of their reopening on Monday. The president of United Teachers of Dade, the local teachers union, Hernandez-Mats said she and her colleagues conducted surprise inspection visits at 17 Miami-area schools that suggested administrators were still scrambling to put safety measures in place. At Miami Springs Senior High, one of the 17 schools inspected, administrators initially refused to allow her colleague, United Teachers of Dade First Vice-President Antonio White, to enter the building and called a police resource officer on him, the union officials told The Daily Beast. When administrators act like that, their schools are usually not prepared, White said in an interview. That was the case at Miami Springs. COVID-Skeptical Florida Guv Outdoes Himself, Lifts All Restrictions on Restaurants and Bars For instance, the school appears to be supplying teachers with alcohol-free hand sanitizer, which may be ineffective in killing coronavirus, the union officials said, providing The Daily Beast with a photo of just that. (The Centers for Disease Controls COVID-19 guidance recommends people use hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent ethanol-based or 70 percent isopropanol-based.) Union officials also provided photos showing decals marking 6-foot distance requirements that were already peeling off the sidewalks near the schools entrance, and desks arranged in such a way that does not allow for 6-foot social distancing. Reached by phone, Miami Springs principal Torossian said he was unaware of police being called on the union official and referred further questions to the school districts media relations department. Spokeswoman Jacquelyn Calzadilla did not specifically address what had occurred at Miami Springs, but she said our school site administrators are working around the clock to ensure a safe return to the schoolhouse for our students and employees. Story continues The flap illustrates the daunting task facing the public school system in Miami-Dade County, which has been the epicenter of Floridas COVID-19 outbreak for most of the pandemic. More than 10,000 teachers and 133,000 students begin filing into 340 schools this week on a staggered schedule. This after the Miami-Dade School Board voted to resume in-person learning under pressure from Florida Education Commissioner Richard Cocoran, a Gov. Ron DeSantis appointee who threatened to cut the school districts funding if classes did not resume by early October. Miami-Dades daily positivity rate rolling average for the 14 days ending on Oct. 4 stood at 4.78 percent, just below the 5 percent positivity rate that the World Health Organization recommends maintaining for two weeks before lifting shelter-at-home and social distancing protocols. During the same 14-day period, Miami-Dade reported 5,456 new cases, bringing its total to 172,205. Photo courtesy United Teachers of Dade School reopenings have been a mess of infection, quarantine, and closure across America in recent weeks. But conversations with teachers, labor leaders, and experts in South Florida painted a picture of Miami schools as a new guinea pig for epidemiological mayhem imposed on high from Tallahassee. This past Friday, Thais Alvarez returned to Norman S. Edelcup Sunny Isles Beach K-8 in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida, for the first time since the pandemic forced the shutdown of school buildings across the country. Alvarez, 48, believes keeping students 6 feet apart is going to be nearly impossible in some cases, despite guidance that she and other staff do so. While my classes are significantly smaller compared to other years, I have some with 16, 19, 21, and 22 students, she told The Daily Beast. There is no way to do traditional social distancing given the square footage of my classroom. For her personal protection, Alvarez said, she received three six-packs of facemasks and a face shield from the principals office, along with a large bottle of hand sanitizer placed on her desk. To bolster the official offerings, some of her students gave her packages of clorox wipes in recent days to sanitize surfaces, added Alvarez, who teaches sixth, seventh and eighth graders. The teachers concerns over clean and sanitized classrooms and bathrooms have a history at Norman S. Edelcup going back to this spring. Alvarez provided The Daily Beast email exchanges she had with Assistant Principal Neal Stayton and Principal Melissa Mesa as far back as May describing grimy conditions inside her classroom and bathrooms on the fourth floor of the school. In a May 7 email, Alvarez complained that objects such as cabinets and desktop screens were caked in dust and floors went unswept throughout the school year. She also claimed the bathroom often ran out of soap and toilet paper before the school day ended, and that toilets were not cleaned for days. In email responses to Alvarez, Mesa acknowledged that custodial staff were supposed to clean bathrooms, including toilets, on a daily basis. But the principal explained that the school district only allocates one custodian per floor and that, based on the workload, the custodian assigned to Norman S. Edelcups fourth floor could only provide a full-service cleaning once a week. Mesa also noted that if the custodian missed work or went on vacation, it would take longer for full-service cleanings to take place. Please communicate custodial concerns with Mr. Stayton and myself throughout the school year and we will do what we can to assist you, Mesa wrote back on May 7. Please know that the health and safety of all our faculty, staff and students is of paramount concern to us as well. When she returned to campus on Friday, Alvarez claimed the bathrooms looked the same to her and that her classroom did not appear any cleaner than the start of previous school years, when floors are stripped and waxed. I cant speak to the future, she added. But if my past experience is any indication, its going to be a dog and pony show in front of the cameras. Behind the scenes, its going to be the complete opposite. Alvarezs bosses at Norman S. Edelcup referred inquiries to school districts chief spokeswoman Daisy Gonzalez-Diego, who did not specifically answer questions about the middle-school teachers complaints. Photo courtesy United Teachers of Dade Miami-Dade County Public Schools administrators and school site personnel are following all recommended health and safety protocols to ensure our schoolhouses are secure and welcoming environments where children can thrive under the instruction of our inspirational educators, Gonzalez-Diego said in an email statement. We also understand that beyond the academic benefits, in-person schooling provides children the social, emotional, and motivational support they need. But on a Facebook page administered by school district employees, dozens of teachers are sharing similar stories about their schools. One teacher posted photos of her classrooms moldy ceiling tile and moldy air conditioning vents. The Daily Beast obtained a screenshot of a text message from another teacher complaining that no one had provided her with masks, hand sanitizer, and wipes. The teacher claimed to work at iPrep Academy, which is adjacent to the school districts headquarters and whose principal is none other than Miami-Dade Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho. The office made me feel uncomfortable as if I were asking for something difficult to get when I thought they had plenty in store, the text message read. In an emailed statement, Miami-Dade Public Schools said all teachers at iPrep Academy received bags containing personal protective equipment. Gonzalez-Diego also explained that the school district prioritized resources to increase existing inventories of cleaning supplies and purchase large quantities of personal protective equipment, among other precautions. With these investments, our schools are now equipped with sufficient PPE and sanitization supplies to safely welcome our students and employees back to the schoolhouse for the 2020-2021 school year, Gonzalez-Diego said. Likewise, on Sept. 30, Superintendent Carvalho sent a letter to all school district employees that read: "Rest reassured that comprehensive measures have been undertaken and will continue to be implemented as a means of ensuring a safe and healthy working environment for all. There is an overall heightened awareness and adherence to prescribed cleaning practices in order to reduce the risk of exposure to our employees." Regardless of how well prepared it is, the school district has been forced to rush things because Carvalho and the school board caved to Education Commissioner Corocans threats, Hernandez-Mats, the union official, argued. Cocoran, a Republican former speaker of the Florida House of Representatives, is a staunch ally of Gov. DeSantis and President Trump, who have advocated reopening schools as part of their push to resume normal life even as health experts across the country warn Florida is about to experience another surge once flu season kicks into high gear. Schools Touted by DeSantis Now in a Quarantine Nightmare "Obviously, this is very troubling how they are getting pressure from Gov. DeSantis, who is falling in line with Trump, telling him to reopen schools, Hernandez-Mats said. They are succumbing to political pressure instead of doing what is right to ensure the health and well-being of the students and the people who work in those schools with those kids." Gonzalez-Diego did not comment on Hernandez-Mats criticisms of local cooperation with pressure from the state level. But Florida education department spokeswoman Taryn Fenske clapped back, arguing school unions like United Teachers of Dade want to dictate the type of learning environment students should have, instead of giving them a choice between online and face-to-face learning. The union bosses are nothing but schoolhouse bullies who want to force everyone to make an identical decision, Fenske said. Theyre just mad that we have no problem or hesitation with standing up for students and families, regardless of what the union demands. A spokesperson for DeSantis did not respond to a request for comment for this story. Florida International University infectious disease expert Mary Jo Trepka told The Daily Beast the sheer size of Miami-Dades public school system makes it critically important that every school site has every possible precaution in place. It is not only critical that transmission be controlled within schools to protect students, teachers, and staff, but also because transmission within schools will fuel overall community transmission, Trepka said. This could happen at a large scale Even if only half are interacting in person, that is a lot of opportunities for transmission. Trepka said the danger of reopening schools in Miami-Dade was compounded by DeSantis decision earlier this month to allow bars and nightclubs to reopen throughout the state. She said its a recipe that could lead to another spike in coronavirus cases similar to what occurred during the summer, when local and state government officials first relaxed COVID-19 restrictions. I fear we will repeat the same situation now with the added problem of colleges resuming classes and the reopening of schools, Trepka said, noting that Floridas summer surge was initially driven by young people catching coronavirus. They ended up infecting older people, Trepka said. Then, of course, we saw a lot of deaths. Read more at The Daily Beast. Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast here Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now! Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more. The 66 Chrysler 300 was offered in three body styles, namely 2-door convertible and hardtop, with the latter also available with a 4-door configuration.The base engine was a 383ci (6.3-liter) V8, and the lineup came with a choice of two transmissions, 3-speed automatic and 4-speed manual.What youre looking at is a 1966 Chrysler 300 powered by the 383 engine, recently saved from a barn, according to the new owner thats now selling it on eBay.At first glance, the 300 looks in pretty good shape, although there are obvious signs of rust here and there. The good news, however, is that the engine turns over, though it doesnt start, so the new owner will have to take care of this if they want to restore the car.The vehicle is 95 percent complete, the seller claims, and the body seems in a surprising condition, especially for a model that was manufactured so many years ago. Theres no physical damage on this 300, other than a small dent on the back that was caused when the car, after being transported from the barn where it was found, fell off the trailer when being unloaded, eventually stopping in a tree. Its all because the braking system failed, which is something thats not necessarily surprising since the car was built 54 years ago.The odometer indicates 89,000 miles (143,231 km), and the car comes with all the records, the service books, and other original documents.Theres a good chance this handsome Chrysler 300 ends up being sold at a really reasonable price, as the car is being auctioned off on eBay , and the highest bid at the time of writing is a little over $2,100. The car can be checked out live in Missouri. Expressing outrage over BJP leaders murder yesterday, West Bengal Governor Jagdeek Dhankar accused CM Mamata Banerjee of ignoring his late night message of speaking urgently on the issue. A local BJP leader was shot dead by two bike-borne assailants near Titagarh in North 24 Parganas district on Sunday evening. The duo opened fire at Manish Shukla on BT Road in the evening, following which he was taken to a private hospital, where he succumbed to injuries, police said. The Governor alleged targeted political killings in spite of alert by constitutional head" in a tweet. The clash between the Bengal CM and the Governor is not new as the two have clashed on a range of issues in the past. Alarming nosediving law and order scenario in the Mamata Banerjee government. Targeted political killings in spite of alert by Constitutional Head. Neither ACS (Additional Chief Secretary) Home nor DGP Bengal Police responded. To CM (Chief Minister) at 10.47 PM Would like to speak to you urgently!" Only silence that speaks volumes," Mr Dhankhar said in a tweet. RELATED NEWS Bengal Assembly Session Beginning Friday Likely to Be Stormy Alarming nosediving law and order scenario @MamataOfficial Targeted political killings in spite of alert by Constitutional Head. Neither ACS Home nor DGP @WBPolice responded. To CM at 10.47 PM Would like to speak to you urgently ! Only silence that speaks volumes Governor West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) October 5, 2020 The Governor had summoned the Additional Chief Secretary and police chief at 10 am today to discuss the law and order situation. ACS Home Mamata Government and DGP West Bengal Police have been summoned at 10 am tomorrow in the wake of worsening law and order situation leading to dastardly killing of Manish Shukla, Councillor, Titagarh Municipality in political party office," the Governor said in a tweet. BJP has blamed the ruling TMC for the murder as the two parties continue to be at logger heads ahead of polls in the state next year. The BJP said that Bengal is now being turned into place where murders are normalised. Bengal is now being turned into place where murders are normalised! Manish Shukla, BJP councillor from Titagarh was shot by TMC goons. These series of murders clearly indicates towards your inevitable end TMC," the party tweeted. The Trinamool Congress has rejected the claim of the BJP and alleged the killing as partys internal dispute. In recent months, there have been about a dozen such killings of political workers, mainly belonging to the BJP and the Trinamool. Guest Column Weapons, Drug Trafficking on Myanmar Border Threaten Indias Act East Policy Myanmar President U Win Myint and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meet in New Delhi in February 2020. / Myanmar Presidents Office Indian Prime Minster Narendra Modis virtual speech at the UN General Assembly last month touched upon a wide range of issues, some of which are relevant to Indias northeast and its neighborhood. A number of those topics are sure to have been among the important bilateral issues that, according to the Indian Embassy in Yangon, were discussed when Indian army chief General MM Naravane, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Ambassador Shri Saurabh Kumar met with State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Naypyityaw on Monday. The Indian foreign secretary and army chief presented Daw Aung San Suu Kyi with over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir, a drug used to treat COVID-19 patients, according to the embassy. The Indian delegation also held meetings with Myanmar military chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and his deputy, Vice Senior General Soe Win, in the capital. From Indias Neighborhood First policy to our Act East policy, as well as the idea of security and growth for all in the region, or our views towards the Indo-Pacific region, we have always worked for the interests of humankind, and not driven by our own self-interests. Indias partnerships are always guided by this very principle, Prime Minister Modi told the UN. Modi also underlined New Delhis commitment to fighting terrorism and the smuggling of illegal weapons and drugs. Needless to say, Indias northeast and neighboring Myanmar have long been afflicted with the twin problems of insurgency and drug trafficking. The northeast is also the gateway to Southeast Asia, and peace and economic development in this region are keys to the success of the Act East policy, aimed at strengthening Indias ties with the Asia-Pacific region. Much of the peace building efforts would depend on whether India can really convince Myanmar to flush out the northeastern rebels operating from its soil. India and Myanmar share a porous, 1,643-km boundary that facilitates cross-border movement of militants, illegal weapons, drugs, gold and precious stones, among other things. Illegal weapons On Sept. 28, Indias Border Security Force (BSF) confiscated a large cache of weapons, including 29 AK-series rifles and 7,894 assorted pieces of ammunition, among other items, from two vehicles in Mizoram States Mamit district, near the India-Bangladesh border. Three persons were arrested in this connection. While details of the investigation are still awaited, the choice of this route reveals a new modus operandi among suppliers, as Mizoram is the most peaceful state in the region. The state formally bade adieu to insurgency following the signing of the 1986 Mizo Peace Accord, the countrys only successful peace agreement since India became independent in 1947. In Myanmar, which is home to scores of rebel outfits, the menace of weapons smuggling from China is posing new challenges to government agencies. Recently, a consignment of 500 Chinese assault rifles, 30 universal machine guns, 70,000 rounds of ammunition and a huge cache of grenades were supplied to the Arakan Army (AA), which is fighting the Myanmar state, The Economic Times reported, quoting security experts. The AA and the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA), which are active in Rakhine State bordering Bangladesh, are designated as terrorist organizations. Earlier in June, Thai officials seized a large cache of Chinese-made weapons, including M16, M79, M5.56 and AK-47 automatic rifles and machine guns, and arrested two persons, in Tak provinces Mae Sot district, The Irrawaddy reported. According to the report, Rakhine militants as well as Indian insurgents with training camps in Myanmars Sagaing region are the main buyers of illegal arms. Guwahati-based journalist and author Rajeev Bhattacharyya, who has written extensively on northeastern insurgencies, said the India-Myanmar border became a hotspot for small arms proliferation in the late 1990s. This was the period when insurgency was at its peak in the northeast. And so, the demand was from these outfits. There were also intermittent reports of weapons from the northeast reaching rebel groups in other parts of India, said Bhattacharyya, who has written a book, Rendezvous with Rebels: Journey to meet Indias Most Wanted Men, based on his visit to rebel camps in Myanmar. The sources of these weapons were the gray markets in China and Southeast Asia, which sold a wide range of arms and ammunitions ranging from AK-series rifles and American M16s to grenades and pistols, he added. Bhattacharyya said the demand for weapons has come down drastically in the northeast in the past six to seven years after an overwhelming majority of rebel groups entered into ceasefire pacts with the government of India in the hope of a negotiated settlement of their demands. Drug smuggling Indias Mizoram state, which shares over 500 km of unfenced border with Myanmar, has emerged as a major drug trafficking route in the past few years. Yaba tablets and other synthetic drugs are regularly smuggled into the northeast from Myanmar and then pushed to other Indian states, besides Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Earlier this year, nongovernment organizations (NGOs) in Mizoram demanded fencing along the India-Myanmar border, citing drug seizures worth 10 million Indian rupees (US$136,526, or 177.76 million kyats) in February-March alone. Experts say that towards the end of the last century, drug cartels in the Golden Trianglethe area where the borders of Myanmar, Thailand and Laos meetswitched to the production of methamphetamine or meth, turning it into a more lucrative trade than heroin. The popularity of meth soared in Thailand, where it is known as yaba, or crazy drug. In Bangladesh, the name yaba has metamorphosed into baba. Myanmars Shan State is the biggest producer of yaba tablets. There were reports that makeshift factories produce over 1 billion yaba pills annually in that region, from where they are smuggled to other Asian countries, Europe and the Americas. Alarmingly, India reported a substantial increase in seizures of amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS), up from 431 kg in 2018 to more than 2.2 tons in 2019, according to a report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. This could, at least partially, be the consequence of the emergence of a new trafficking route from Myanmar through Indias border for trafficking to Bangladesh, it said. New Delhi and Naypyitaw signed a memorandum of understanding in 2014 to check illegal cross-border activities, but nothing much has been achieved in the past six years. The onus is definitely on India to convince its eastern neighbor to act against the menace of drug trafficking and arms smuggling, two major hurdles before its Act East policy. Jayanta Kalita is a senior journalist and author based in New Delhi. He writes on issues relating to Indias northeast and its immediate neighborhood. His views are his own. You may also like these stories: Bangladesh Restarts Some Factories; India Debates Easing Restrictions. Bangladesh Says it Wont Assimilate Rohingya Muslims Vocabulary Crisis Creates Yet Another Hurdle for Myanmars Federalism Chinese Communist Party Is Responsible for Trumps Infection: Gordon Chang Author and China expert Gordon Chang says the Chinese communist regime, which hadnt been truthful about the CCP virus during the early outbreaks, should be held accountable for its global spread and the positive diagnosis of President Donald Trump. During an Oct. 5 interview with The Epoch Times, the longtime China watcher said he believes Beijing intentionally allowed the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus to spread beyond Chinas border in order to damage other economies. I believe that Xi Jinping took steps to deliberately spread the coronavirus once he realized that it crippled his own country, Chang told The Epoch Times Jan Jekielek. I dont know whether it was cooked in the lab or whether it was naturally occurring, although I suspect it came from a lab. Chang said that Chinese authorities, under Xis leadership, knew the threat of the outbreak as early as last December but intentionally concealed its severity to the rest of the world, which kept other countries guards down. I believe that China infected Trump, said Chang. Now, one can say that the American response has not been as quick as it should have been. And theres going to be a lot of debate over that. But we do know that even once China admitted the contagiousness of the disease after denying it, that it tried to downplay the severity of the situation. And that led countries, including the United States, not to take precautions that they otherwise would have. Chang noted that top members of the White Houses pandemic task force, namely Drs. Deborah Birx and Anthony Fauci, have openly expressed skepticism about statistics from China, which largely shaped the outside worlds response to the threat. In April, Birx said that Chinas reported low death rate was basically unrealistic, while Fauci went even further, accusing the CCP leadership of propagating misinformation right from the beginning. When asked about State Secretary Mike Pompeos recent speeches in which he separated the CCP and the Chinese people, Chang said such a diplomatic approach is what Beijing fears the most. Weve got to remember that nothing drives the Communist Party so insane as a suggestion that countries will talk to the Chinese people and bypass the Communist Party, he said. We need to do everything possible to de-legitimize the party, and speaking to the Chinese people is an important element of that initiative. Chang also warned about an ongoing effort to destabilize U.S. society amid the presidential election. In addition to pro-Beijing political spam networks that relentlessly attack the president, Chang said the CCP is also behind the violence that has been seen in U.S. cities over the past months. There are these reports that China has been trying to foment violence in the United States this year, he said. Theres a Radio Free Asia report that says the intelligence unit of the Peoples Liberation Army bases themselves in the now-closed Houston consulate. And there they use big data to identify Americans likely to participate in Black Lives Matter and Antifa protests. And then, the PLA sent them videos on how to riot. If the Communist Party were competent in reading the moods of Americans, wed really be in trouble, Chang said. With reporting from Jan Jekielek The Rs 2,160-crore initial public offering of UTI Asset Management Company was subscribed around 2.3 times till the final day of bidding. The IPO of UTI AMC opened for subscription on September 29 and ended on October 1 in a price range of Rs 552-554 per share. The issue received bids for 6.31 crore equity shares compared to the size of 2.73 crore shares. In a move to divest the stake held by its five shareholders from 100% to 69.2%, State Bank of India (SBI), Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), and Bank of Baroda offered to sell 1,04,59,949 shares each, while Punjab National Bank (PNB) and T Rowe Price International offloaded 38,03,617 shares each. The IPO was an offer for sale of 3,89,87,081 equity shares, or 30.75 per cent stake by the company's existing investors to raise Rs 2,152-2,160 crore. Shares of the company are proposed to be listed on BSE and NSE on October 12. The unblocking of funds from ASBA account will start around October 8 and the shares will be credited to the account of eligible investors by October 9. This will be the third AMC to get listed on the stock exchanges after Nippon Life India Asset Management and HDFC AMC. The allotment for the shares is expected to be known by October 7/ October 8. Those who had bid for the issue can check the subscription status on the online portal of KFin Technologies, the registrar to the issue. Here's how to check UTI Asset Management Company (AMC) IPO allotment status On KFin Technologies - Go to the online portal -Click on the drop-down menu and select the company name as UTI Asset Management Company (AMC) in the drop-down menu of the investor's centre section. - Enter your Permanent Account Numbers (PAN) or application number or Client ID. - After entering the given captcha code, investors can click on submit button and view their allotment status. On BSE Applicants can also check their IPO allotment status on the BSE website -Select Equity and then from the dropdown, select issue name- UTI. -Enter your Permanent Account Numbers (PAN) or application number and click Search Kotak Mahindra Capital Company, Axis Capital, Citigroup Global Markets India, DSP Merrill Lynch, ICICI Securities, JM Financial and SBI Capital Markets are the book running lead managers to the offer. As of September 30, 2019, the company had the largest share of monthly average AUM. According to Crisil Research, UTI AMC had the second-highest market share by AUM of PMS services in India. Here's what analysts say about the IPO: HDFC Securities in its note said," Its Domestic Mutual Fund QAAUM was Rs1,336.3 billion as of June 30, 2020. UTI AMC has the highest proportion of its monthly average AUM as of June 30, 2020, attributable to B30 cities of the top ten asset management companies in India as of June 30, 2020. UTI AMC's size and diverse client base, coupled with its strong product portfolio and, particularly in B30 cities, extensive distribution network and widely recognized brand, position it to capitalise on future growth in the Indian mutual fund industry." Nirmal Bang Institutional Equities in its note said," Even though we are positive on the industry prospects from a long-term perspective, we take cognizance of some of the near-to-medium term headwinds. We think the IPO pricing is undemanding given the valuation HDFC AMC and Nippon AMC are currently commanding. We shall take a call on the stock rating at a later stage." Canara Bank Securities in its note said," UTI AMC's PE stands at 25.73x FY20 as com-pared to HDFC AMC's and Nippon Life AMC's PE of 35.43x and 37.06x FY20 respectively. Hence, we recommend to Subscribe UTI AMC IPO for listing as well as long term gains." Geojit in its note rated Subscribe to the UTI AMC IPO and said," Company's national footprint with a presence in many metropolitan and rural areas, and particular strength in B30 cities, has allowed them to leverage the UTI name and establish UTI as a brand which is recognised across the country. Jaikishan Parmar- Sr. Equity Research Analyst, Angel Broking said,"UTI AMC's operational profitability is lower vs. listed peers primarily owing to higher cost. With the growth in AUM, we expect the cost to grow at a slower speed, which will benefit operating leverage and will help the company to improve EBITDA margins. At the upper end of the IPO price band, it is offered at 25.4x its FY20 earnings and 5.25% of Q1FY21 QAAUM, demanding 7,024cr market cap, which we believe is reasonable. Further, listed peers like HDFC AMC trades at 35x FY20 earnings and Nippon AMC trades at 37x FY20 earnings. Additionally, HDFC and Nippon AMC trade at 12.56% and 8.55% of Q1FY21 QAAUM, respectively. Considering attractive valuation, huge growth potential of MF industry, asset-light business and higher dividend payout ratio, we are positive on this IPO and rate it as SUBSCRIBE." LKP Securities in its note said," At higher price band (Rs554), the stock is valued at 25.7(x)FY20 Earnings. Comparing with peers like HDFC AMC and Nippon AMC which are trading at 35.2(x) and 35.0(x)FY20 Earnings respectively due to higher ROE. We still believe that UTI AMC is lucrative and we recommend to SUBSCRIBE." Nirali Shah, Senior Research Analyst, Samco Securities said,"UTI has received a mandate to manage 55% of EPFO in 2019 which has significantly boosted its AUM. This AMC has delivered decent returns and profit margins in the past few years with a Mcap to Equity QAAUM of 18% compared to HDFC AMC's 29%. Additionally, this year itself it granted ESOPs at Rs. 728/share while its price band is at Rs. 552-554/share which means it leaves more money on the table for investors for listing gains." Centrum Broking said, "We are optimistic about the AMC space as asset management, being a fee-based business is slated to grow (QAAUM) at an 18% CAGR in the medium term led by overall economic growth, growing investor base and higher disposable income levels. Recent regulatory changes such as revised expense ratios would lower costs for mutual fund investors which should aid in greater retail participation. Valuation is attractive with P/E at 25.4x FY20 EPS." "At the higher end of the price band, UTI AMC's IPO is priced at a PE ratio of 25.41, based on FY20 earnings. This is at a significant discount to listed peers HDFC AMC (trading at PE of 36) and Nippon Life (PE of 37). Given its relatively weaker profitability and growth ratios, this seems to be justified. UTI AMC operates at higher operating costs versus peers, which has taken a toll on its profitability. We believe that one can subscribe to this IPO purely from the chances of achieving listing gains," INDmoney said. Stocks in news: Angel Broking, RIL, TCS, NMDC, Dr Reddy's Angel Broking: Shares may list at 6-7% discount amid weakening IPO sentiment The wife of a popular Belarusian blogger held by the authorities for over 100 days in pretrial detention has demanded his immediate release. RFE/RL social-media consultant and blogger Ihar Losik was arrested on June 25 and accused by authorities of using his popular Telegram channel to "prepare to disrupt public order" ahead of the disputed August 9 presidential election. His wife, Daria, claims Losik is being held in "deliberately inhumane conditions" and is being pressured to admit to crimes he did not commit. One of the greatest things (the only one, perhaps) the movies have going for them are the cars used for the characters. Most of the meanest, coolest cars of the age got a part, starting with the Western Star of Optimus Prime to the Unimog of the Hound.The most iconic car of the series remains, of course, Bumblebees Camaro . One that, in a very rare instance of something like this happening, got thrown into battle against its real-life enemy, the Ford Mustang, in the very first installment of the series.Getting these two a part in the same movie should have been memorable. It wasnt, and testimony to that is the very limited number of real life builds referencing the two vehicles.The one you see in the gallery above is one of those tribute cars. Based on a 2009 Mustang , is not exactly the widebody kit-wearing Saleen version used in the flick, but still hopes to draw some cash during the Mecum auction in Dallas next week.Described as a replica of the original Barricade robot in the first Transformers movie, different from the original by the engine and rear fascia, it shows up as a far simpler interpretation of the Decepticon, dressed in the same police livery that earned the character the bad cop moniker.Packing official police lights up top and the phrase "To punish and enslave" on its side, the car was used a community engagement vehicle for Heroes, Cops and Kids, an organization fighting to give young people role models to look up to.We are not being told how much it is expected to fetch for reference, the Transformers Barricade Police Press Car was sold by Mecum earlier this year for $30,000. Astronomers using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope have snapped an incredibly detailed image of the large double-barred spiral galaxy NGC 1365. NGC 1365 is located 55.4 million light-years away in the southern constellation of Fornax. Otherwise known as the Great Barred Spiral Galaxy, LEDA 13179, AGC 22699, ESO 358-17 and IRAS 03317-3618, the galaxy has a diameter of 200,000 light-years. Discovered on November 24, 1826, by the Scottish astronomer James Dunlop, it is a member of the Fornax Cluster, a group of more than 50 known galaxies. NGC 1365 is a striking example of its type, the prominent bar passing through the central core of the galaxy, and the spiral arms emerging from the ends of the bar. It is also classified as a Seyfert galaxy, with a bright active galactic nucleus also containing a rapidly-rotating supermassive black hole at its center. NGC 1365s blue and fiery orange swirls show us where stars have just formed and the dusty sites of future stellar nurseries, Hubble astronomers said. At the outer edge of the image, enormous star-forming regions can be seen. The bright, light-blue regions indicate the presence of hundreds of baby stars that formed from coalescing gas and dust within the galaxys outer arms. The new image was captured as part of a joint survey with the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). The survey will help us understand how the diversity of galaxy environments observed in the nearby Universe influence the formation of stars and star clusters, the researchers said. Expected to image over 100,000 gas clouds and star-forming regions beyond our Milky Way Galaxy, the PHANGS survey is expected to uncover and clarify many of the links between cold gas clouds, star formation and the overall shape and morphology of galaxies. NEW DELHI: A 24-year-old man was stabbed to death by two persons while trying to resist a snatching bid at GB road in central Delhi, police said on Monday (October 5). Aman, along with his friends Aniruddh, Hari Om and Raju, was roaming on the GB Road around 11.30 pm on Sunday when a person tried to snatch his mobile phone. Aman caught hold of the snatcher and started beating him up. In the meantime, the snatcher's accomplice stabbed Aman with a knife and when his friend Aniruddh tried to stop him, he attacked him also, according to police. Both men were rushed to Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) hospital, where Aman was declared brought dead by doctors, while Aniruddh was undergoing treatment for his stab wounds, a senior police officer said. "We received information at 1.54 am from RML hospital through our duty constable," Deputy Commissioner of Police (central) Sanjay Bhatia said. A case was registered under Section 302 (murder), 307 (attempt to murder), 394 (voluntarily causing hurt in committing robbery), 397(robbery or dacoity, with attempt to cause death or grievous hurt) and 34 (Acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) at Kamla Market police station and an investigation was underway, he added. Live TV Digital payments major Paytm has launched its own Android Mini App Store as the battle with technology major Google heats up. The Noida based fintech company said that it aims to support Indian developers through this initiative. Paytm will be providing listing and distribution services to these mini-apps within the Paytm app without any extra charges, the company said in a press note today. This is an important move from the payments giant since the app developers have been engaged in a friction with Google because of its latest changes in the billing and payment policies for apps hosted on the Google Play Store. Mini-apps are customised mobile websites which give users an app like experience, but the difference is it operates on a web browser and users do not need to download a separate app for this. A web app is different from a native app which needs to be downloaded from an app store which in case of Apple is App Store and for Google it is Google Play Store. A web app opens on the web browser for all its functions. While the benefit of a web app is that it does not use the phones internal storage and cannot read smartphone data, the problem is in many cases it only offers basic user interface features. For payments, the web apps can use Paytms services like Paytm wallet, payments bank, Unified Payments Interface, netbanking and cards. It offers UPI at zero charges and levies a 2 percent charge for other instruments like credit cards This digital infrastructure will enable app developers to build low cost apps using HTML and Javascript technologies. More than 300 app-based service providers such as Decathlon, Ola, Park+, Rapido, Netmeds, 1MG, Domino's Pizza, FreshMenu, NoBroker have already joined the program which has been running in beta with select users and witnessed over 12 million visits in September. Paytm Mini App Store empowers our young Indian developers to leverage our reach and payments to build new innovative services. For Paytm users, it will be a seamless experience that doesn't require any separate download and enables them to use their preferred payment option," said Vijay Shekhar Sharma, founder, Paytm. Paytm has been on a collision course with Google, since the time Google removed Paytm from the Play Store for a few hours on September 18. Google said that the app was removed because it violated Googles gambling and betting policies. However Paytm founder Sharma retorted against the move citing that the American tech major was behaving as a judge, jury and executioner in this case and did not give enough time to allow Paytm to explain its stand on the issue. Sources indicate that Sharma along with a group of Indian startup founders are also looking to create an alternative to Google Play Store thereby attempting to challenge the dominant position of Googles app store in India, which is majorly an Android market. The Queen and Prince Philip will celebrate their 73rd wedding anniversary next month, and in the seven decades since the royal couple wed, they have kept one secret closely guarded. Similarly to Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton, Her Majesty's wedding ring is made in Welsh gold. But it is inscribed with a secret message, that even those closest to the monarch don't know, and was chosen by Prince Philip in 1947. Similarly to Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton, Her Majesty's wedding ring is made in Welsh gold. But it is inscribed with a secret message, that even those closest to the monarch don't know. She is pictured showing her ring in 2007 Writing in her new book Prince Philip: A Portrait of the Duke of Edinburgh, London-based royal expert and biographer Ingrid Seward writes: 'At least Philip didn't have the expense of a wedding ring, as the people of Wales supplied a nugget of Welsh gold from which the ring as made. 'She never takes it off and inside the ring is an inscription. 'No one knows what it says, other than the engraver, the Queen and her husband.' Her engagement ring was also a gift, as Prince Philip made it from a tiara that belonged to his mother, Princess Alice of Battenberg. Queen Elizabeth, then Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip are pictured on their wedding day in 1947 Alice received it as a gift from Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra of Russia when she married Prince Andrew of Greece and Denmark. Before proposing, Philip, now 99, had the tiara taken apart and repurposed the diamonds to make a ring her his bride-to-be, now 94. The young prince then designed the three-carat solitaire with five smaller diamonds. No one knows what the inscription of the monarch's wedding ring (pictured in 2010) reads, other than Philip and the monarch herself The couple got married on November 20, 1947 at Westminster Abbey. The Queen had eight bridesmaids, including her sister Princess Margaret and cousin Princess Alexandra of Kent. More than 200million people globally watched the service on TV, with around 2000 guests in attendance. Her engagement ring was also a gift, as Prince Philip made it from a tiara that belonged to his mother, Princess Alice of Battenberg. The Queen is pictured with her rings at Newbury Racecourse in 2015 The Queen and Prince Philip have recently returned from Balmoral. The couple spent six weeks at their Aberdeenshire home but have now moved to Norfolk together to 'spend time privately' at the their Sandringham estate, where the Duke spends much of his retirement at Wood Farm. Amid the Covid-19 crisis, the Queen will return to Windsor this month, from where she will travel to Buckingham Palace for working visits. Bamako, Mali (PANA) - Two police officers of the Mobile Security Group (GMS) were killed and two others as well as a civilian injured while on patrol Friday night in Timbuktu, northeastern Mali Grand Tour stars Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond are filming for their Amazon Prime series on Scottish islands at the centre of a coronavirus cluster. The trio and their crew have been working in the Highlands for the past few days, complete with a mobile coronavirus testing centre. Their eye convoy of classic American cars, including a Buick, a Lincoln and a Cadillac, boarded the CalMac ferry at Uig on Skye yesterday and sailed to Lochmaddy on North Uist, taking up about half the deck space. Locals saw the group disembark at the wet and windswept Outer Hebridean port and gather at a crowded carpark near Taigh Chearsabhagh on the island. Clarkson was then seen waving to islanders from the wheel of a blue car. The Uists have now reported a cluster of 38 coronavirus cases the first on the islands, and the first positive tests for Covid-19 in the Outer Hebrides since June. The islands previously only had eight cases in total, the lowest in Scotland. Jeremy Clarkson arriving in the Highlands to film the new series of Amazon's The Grand Tour Richard Hammond arriving in the Highlands to film the new series of Amazon's The Grand Tour James May arriving in the Highlands to film the new series of Amazon's The Grand Tour The current cluster is centre on South Uist, but the disease is thought to have spread north to Benbecula via causeways which link the Uists. Western Isles MP Angus MacNeil said he was surprised by Amazon's decision to film the new series of The Grand Tour in the area. 'I hope Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond know what is going on in the Uists and that they have taken the right and sensible precautions,' he warned. The crew appear to have their own caravans to ensure they practise social distancing, though it is not known how long the star trio will be in the area. Grand Tour stars Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond are filming for their Amazon Prime series on Scottish islands at the centre of a coronavirus cluster The Uists have now reported a cluster of 38 coronavirus cases the first on the islands, and the first positive tests for Covid-19 in the Outer Hebrides since June Filming starts today at the stunning Valley Strand on the north coast of North Uist. Pontoons are being laid out at low tide to provide a bridge over the tidals sands to Valley Island. Clarkson, May and Hammond shot an episode of The Grand Tour in the Highlands two years ago. This time, they were seen wearing face masks in other locations around the Highlands, including Glentuim Estate. They are taking their masks off while filming. Amazon declined to comment. Last year, Clarkson and his Grand Tour co-hosts stirred controversy by appearing to mock a Scottish town in an episode of Amazon's motoring show. The former BBC Top Gear trio raced in three old Italian cars which they believe to be future classics along the North Coast 500 route through the 'best parts of Scotland'. However, beginning their trip in what appears to be Invergordon, the presenters were less than kind about the fishing port town in Easter Ross as they set off into 'the giant oil painting that is Scotland'. Clarkson driving a classic American car while filming for the new series of The Grand Tour Hammond driving a classic American car while filming for the new series of The Grand Tour Clarkson, May and Hammond shot an episode of The Grand Tour in Scotland two years ago 'This isn't exactly like the tourist authority would have you believe, is it?' said Clarkson, before Hammond referred to the pebble dash-clad houses as being 'battered'. 'You can see why they want to be independent can't you?' Clarkson quips, as Hammond sarcastically responds, 'You wouldn't want people messing all this up, would you?' The reason for their choice of starting location was 'simply to annoy' The Grand Tour's Scottish producer 'Gav', according to Clarkson. 'That was the only reason we met on a beach full of oil rigs and then drove through a council estate of hypodermic needles.' Prisoners are being given shorter sentences because of coronavirus, it has been reported. (Getty Images) Criminals are being handed down coronavirus discounts in the form of shorter prison sentences, it has been reported. According to The Times, offenders are avoiding prison or having their sentences reduced because the spread of COVID-19 has led to a harsh regime in prisons. One Conservative MP who criticised the practice described it as a COVID bonus for prisoners. But prison reform charities welcomed the move, saying the impact of going to prison during the pandemic is much more severe than previously. It follows a ruling at the Court of Appeal in April that the impact of a custodial sentence is likely to be harsher during the COVID-19 pandemic. These include longer confinement to cells and restrictions on visitors. Dame Vera Baird, the victims commissioner for England and Wales, told The Times: There is a real danger that COVID expediency is taking precedence over justice. She told the newspaper she feared the move would inevitably undermine public confidence in justice. And Conservative MP Tim Loughton, a member of the home affairs select committee, told The Times it was a special summer sale and a COVID bonus for prisoners that sent out the wrong message. But Peter Dawson, director of the Prison Reform Trust charity, told Yahoo News UK: The idea that prisoners are getting a surprise bonus from COVID-19 doesnt square with the facts. People now go to prison for much longer than they used to for the same crimes. Prison conditions have also deteriorated sharply over the last decade and during the pandemic almost all prisoners have spent 23 hours or more in their cell every day no work, no education, no visits. The Court of Appeals guidance is a very modest recognition that the actual impact of going to prison at the moment is much more severe than the law assumes. Prison reform charities said inmates have spent more than 22 hours a day in isolation during the coronavirus pandemic. (Getty Images) And Frances Crook, chief executive of the Howard League for Penal Reform, told Yahoo News UK: "At such a challenging time, it makes sense to reduce the prison population and ease pressure on the system. Story continues "Although the spread of the virus has been largely contained in prisons up to now, thanks to the extraordinary efforts on the ground by people living and working in them, this has come at huge cost. "Tens of thousands of people, including children, have been forced to spend months in grim conditions locked up for more than 22 hours a day, either in solitary confinement or overcrowded cells, and denied purpose and the opportunity to make amends. Back in March, the government reportedly drew up emergency plans to deal with sick inmates and staff shortages. Hundreds of prisoners and prison staff contracted COVID-19 in the weeks that followed, the Ministry of Justice said. Watch: Why are UK COVID-19 deaths low as cases rise? Coronavirus: what happened today Click here to sign up to the latest news and information with our daily Catch-up newsletter HELSINKI, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Caverion has the pleasure to invite analysts, institutional investors and media to its Q3 report news conference and Sustainability Morning. The joint event will take place on Thursday, 5 November 2020, at 10.00 a.m. Finnish time (EET) at Hotel Kamp, Kluuvikatu 2, 2nd floor, Helsinki, Finland. "The future of built environments is smart and sustainable. Increasing awareness of sustainability is supported by both EU-driven regulations and national legislation setting higher targets and actions for energy efficiency and carbon-neutrality. A significant amount of the Covid-19 related economic stimulus packages is also directed towards sustainable investments enabling smart buildings and cities and promoting a sustainable recovery," says Ari Lehtoranta, President and CEO of Caverion Corporation. "Sustainability and digitalisation are the key themes in our strategy. This year we have defined our own sustainability targets. We will present the results of this work externally in our Sustainability Morning on 5 November 2020," Mr. Lehtoranta continues. Preliminary programme (Finnish time (EET), a.m.) 10.00 Q3 Information Session and Q&A ~10.45 Sustainability Morning presentation ~11.15 - 11.30 Sustainability related Q&A The Sustainability Morning is expected to start at around 10.45 a.m. Finnish time (EET), immediately following the Q3 news conference. The Sustainability Morning presentation will take approximately 30 minutes, followed by a Q&A session. The event will be held in English. The presenters are President and CEO Ari Lehtoranta and Chief Financial Officer Martti Ala-Harkonen. Registration All participants to the physical meeting are kindly asked to register in advance by 20 October 2020. To sign up, please use the registration form below, which can also be found on Caverion's website at www.caverion.com/investors. Registration form >> More information >> Due to the corona related space restrictions, the number of participants to the physical meeting has been limited to 25 guests. Caverion reserves the right to limit participation if necessary and will confirm the participation after the deadline above. Please also note that the registration is made for the whole event, in order to avoid any unnecessary disturbance during the webcast. Webcast The news conference can be viewed live without registration at www.caverion.com/investors. The live webcast will start at 10.00 a.m. (EET). A recording of the webcast will be available at the same address at approximately 1.00 p.m. (EET). Conference call It is also possible to participate in the event through a conference call. Participants are requested to call one of the assigned numbers at least five minutes before the conference call begins, at 9.55 a.m. (EET) at the latest: +44 (0)330 336 9105 +46 (0)8 5033 6574 Participant code for the conference call is "9790402 / Caverion". During the webcast and conference call, all questions should be presented in English. Publishing of Caverion's Interim Report for January-September 2020 Caverion Corporation's Interim Report for January-September 2020 will be published on Thursday, 5 November 2020, at approximately 8:00 a.m. (Finnish Time, EET). Following the publication of the Q3 report, Caverion will also publish its sustainability targets and KPI's. The releases and Q3 presentation materials in Finnish and in English will be published at that time on the company's website at www.caverion.com/investors. Schedule in different time zones Interim Report published The news conference, conference call and live webcast Recorded webcast available EET (Helsinki) 08.00 10.00 13.00 CET (Paris, Stockholm) 07.00 09.00 12.00 GMT (London) 06.00 08.00 11.00 EST (New York) 01.00 03.00 06.00 For additional information, please contact: Milena Hggstrom Head of Investor Relations and External Communications tel. +358 40 5581 328 milena.haeggstrom@caverion.com This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/caverion/r/invitation-to-caverion-s-q3-report-news-conference-and-sustainability-morning,c3210168 The following files are available for download: SOURCE Caverion Those groups are on offense against just one Democratic seat, that of Sen. Gary Peters (Mich.), whose race against a well-funded Republican, John James, has grown increasingly close despite Bidens continued strength in a state that Trump narrowly won in 2016. Some allies of Peters have sent warnings to Democratic leaders that if they do not shore up what should be an easy victory, they could fall shy of the majority. Upcoming political events in the Bay Area. Events take place online unless otherwise noted: WEDNESDAY Debate watch party: Online watch party for vice presidential debate between Mike Pence and Kamala Harris. Hosted by Mannys. 5:30 p.m. More information is here. Ballot measures: A nonpartisan analysis of San Francisco and state ballot measures, hosted by the League of Women Voters. 6 p.m. More information is here. THURSDAY Rep. Ro Khanna: Fremont Democrat holds a town hall meeting. Noon. Submit questions in advance here; join meeting here. Eric Holder: Former U.S. attorney general on voter suppression and the election. Hosted by Mother Jones. 1 p.m. More information is here. Immigration and public health: Writer Giuli Alvarenga shares his accounts as a volunteer at the U.S.-Mexican border in discussing how conditions there among immigrants is a public health concern. Hosted by the Commonwealth Club. 3 p.m. More information is here. Boozy ballot breakdown: A rundown of everything thats on the ballot, with Luna Reclipse and Tonya Turmeric. Hosted by Mannys. 7 p.m. More information is here. FRIDAY RBG vigil: In honor of the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Hosted by the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. 7 p.m. in person at Market and Castro streets, San Francisco; online here. More information is here. MONDAY Oakland City Council race: A virtual town hall forum with candidates for the Oakland City Councils at-large seat. Hosted by Project Inquire. 4 p.m. More information is here. TUESDAY Reuniting the U.S.: The authors of The Upswing: How America Came Together a Century Ago and How We Can Do It Again, Harvard public policy Professor Robert Putnam and social entrepreneur Shaylyn Romney Garrett, talk about the lessons the U.S. can draw from earlier eras of reform. Hosted by the Commonwealth Club. 10 a.m. More information is here. Ibram X. Kendi: Antiracism author in conversation at the Commonwealth Club. Noon. More information is here. Antiracism rally in Martinez: Hosted by Together We Stand and East Bay Resistance. Noon, Contra Costa County courthouse, 725 Court St., Martinez. More information is here. Rep. Mark DeSaulnier: Concord Democrat hosts a town hall meeting. 1 p.m. Submit a question in advance here. Join meeting here. OCT. 14 John Judis: Editor-at-large of Talking Points Memo and author of The Socialist Awakening: What's Different Now About the Left, in conversation at the Commonwealth Club. 10 a.m. More information is here. OCT. 15 Debate watch party: For the second debate between President Trump and Joe Biden. Hosted by Mannys. 5:30 p.m. More information is here. OCT. 17 Womens march: March for Our Rights social distance march. Hosted by Womens March San Francisco, League of Women Voters San Francisco chapter, NARAL Pro-Choice California, Planned Parenthood Norther California, San Francisco Womens Political Committee and the Womens Building of San Francisco. 11 a.m., Civic Center Plaza, 335 McAllister St., San Francisco. More information is here. OCT. 19 Who gets to vote? A forum on voter suppression and how to fight it. Panelists include California Secretary of State Alex Padilla and Ari Berman, senior reporter at Mother Jones. Hosted by the Commonwealth Club. 3 p.m. More information is here. Fareed Zakaria: Host of CNNs Fareed Zakaria GPS and Washington Post columnist on lessons for a post-pandemic world. Hosted by the Commonwealth Club. 6 p.m. More information is here. OCT. 20 Gov. Andrew Cuomo: New York governor in conversation at the Commonwealth Club. Noon. More information is here. OCT. 21 Sean Spicer: Former White House press secretary under President Trump in conversation at the Commonwealth Club. 10 a.m. More information is here. OCT. 27 Driving while Black: Gretchen Sorin, director of the Cooperstown Graduate Program of the State University of New York, discusses her book, Driving While Black, African American Travel & the Road to Civil Rights. Hosted by Marcus Books and KPFA-FM. 7 p.m. More information is here. NOV. 10 Chris Hedges: Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author Chris Hedges in discussion with Project Censored Director Mickey Huff on the culture of despair. Hosted by Project Censored and KPFA-FM. 7 p.m. More information is here. To list an event, please email Chronicle politics editor Trapper Byrne at tbyrne@sfchronicle.com The initial COVID-19 lockdowns saw the majority of our wholesale business disappear overnight. It was the perfect opportunity to launch a home delivery service said Erik Friedmann Our customers are thrilled to easily order and enjoy their favorite kombucha flavor and not worry about running out. The Toronto-based company is addressing the current health climate by offering delivery of its popular kombucha non-alcohol beverages directly to area doorsteps. Craft-beverage company OK! Kombucha, known for transcending traditional kombucha recipes into creative flavors,staying ahead of the times by offering home delivery in the surrounding areas. In response to the current health epidemic, the move to delivery allows customers to have access to their favorite kombucha without leaving the comfort and safety of their homes. The company is focused on customer satisfaction and safety, having instituted packing and delivery precautions that meet COVID requirements. Delivery is available for single orders or on a subscription basis. The initial COVID-19 lockdowns saw the majority of our wholesale business disappear overnight. It was frightening at the time but also the perfect opportunity to launch a home delivery service said Erik Friedmann The feedback from our customers has been amazing and has strengthened our relationship with them in new ways. Theyre thrilled to easily order and enjoy their favorite kombucha flavor and not worry about running out. The brewery continues to redefine the non-alcoholic beverage experience, with unique, layered flavors crafted with fresh ingredients, ethically-sourced quality teas, cold-pressed juices. Popular beverages include Mango Lemonade, Watermelon Mint, Orange Cardamom, Pear Rosewater, Peach Orange Blossom, and Ginger Jasmine. All flavors come in 12-ounce bottles. Kombucha has a long history and has been consumed for more than 2,000 years. It is made by fermenting sweetened tea with starter kombucha and a substance called a SCOBY or symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. In the last decade, this effervescent artisanal drink has grown in popularity worldwide for its reported great taste and health advantages, including probiotic benefits that encourage gut bacteria diversity and aid digestion. For more information on OK! Kombucha and current delivery areas, visit the companys website at https://okkombucha.ca. About OK! Kombucha: A Canadian kombucha brewery, OK! Kombucha is redefining and elevating the non-alcoholic beverage experience. The company transcends traditional kombucha recipes, using its creative expression and quality ingredients to make new and unique flavors, crafted just for you. Follow them on Instagram @ok.kombucha. Mumbai, Oct 5 : Reiterating the conspiracy theory to defame Maharashtra in the Sushant Singh Rajput probe, Shiv Sena Spokesperson Sanjay Raut on Monday said it was strange that even the CBI probe and the AIIMS forensic report were now questioned. "This is something very surprising. Earlier, they (Sushant's family and supporters) did not have faith in the Mumbai Police investigations and the autopsy report given by Dr RN Cooper Hospital," Raut said here. He pointed out that the AIIMS report -- which said that the Bollywood actor died by suicide -- is as per the investigations by its forensic medical board led by Dr Sudhir Gupta. The report concluded that Sushant was not murdered, which was in tune with what the Mumbai Police probe maintained, Raut said. "Now, the CBI probe is being doubted and the AIIMS report is being questioned," said the Sena leader who had earlier sarcastically commented that the matter could be probed by even some international agency like KGB or Mossad. Earlier, Sushant family's lawyer Vikas Singh expressed concerns over the AIIMS report. "Highly perturbed with the AIIMS report. Going to request the CBI Director to constitute a fresh forensic team. How could AIIMS team give a conclusive report in the absence of the body, that too on such shoddy post-mortem done by Cooper Hospital wherein time of death also not mentioned?" Singh tweeted. The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party in the state continues to embarrass the ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi government, claiming that the Mumbai Police was allegedly told to ignore the drugs angle probe in the Sushant case. Sushant, 34, was found dead at his Bandra home on June 14, sparking off a huge political furore and triggering the biggest probe into the alleged Bollywood-drugs nexus, which led to the arrest of 20 persons, including actress Rhea Chakraborty. Latest updates on Sushant Singh Rajput Death Mystery -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text For months, Joe Biden has gone to great lengths to model responsible behaviour in the coronavirus era. He wears masks in public. He does not hold crowded rallies. When he gives speeches, reporters sit at a distance from one another, with white circles on the ground to mark their turf. These actions have so far helped keep Biden healthy and able to continue campaigning while President Donald Trump, who mocked masks and held large events, is now hospitalised with Covid-19. But beyond the public examples of safety precautions, Bidens health protocols have remained largely under wraps, with his campaign saying little about what steps it is taking to protect the 77-year-old Democratic nominee. Also Read: In Joe Biden's home state, Republican centrism gives way to fringe His aides will not answer questions about whether Biden is tested daily; they say simply that he is tested regularly. Until this weekend, they had promised to inform the public only if he had a confirmed positive case. Then, on Saturday night, after two days of refusing to provide details about Bidens testing procedures, the campaign committed to releasing the results of all his tests. He tested negative Sunday, his campaign said. Transparency has taken on new significance in the presidential race given the conflicting information about Trumps health and the fact that his Democratic rival, who is also in an age group that is particularly susceptible to Covid-19, was exposed to the president during their 90-minute debate Tuesday. Biden, who is ahead in national polls and many battleground state surveys, still faces the possibility of a positive test; he is continuing to campaign rather than follow public health guidelines to quarantine, and his campaign has been cagey about his health protocols. The questions about Bidens health come as he is confronting an unprecedented political reality: He would be the oldest president ever elected if he wins in November, and he faces the daily personal risks of a pandemic that has killed more than 209,000 people in the United States. Trumps diagnosis, and the apparent health threat he posed during a debate where he was often talking or shouting over Biden, are forcing the Biden campaign to grapple with its own next steps and disclosures regarding the health of the Democratic nominee. Much like I wouldnt discuss our security plans here on national television, Im not going to talk about our inner workings of our health plans, Symone D. Sanders, a senior adviser for the Biden campaign, said on CNNs State of the Union on Sunday when asked what the campaign would do if Biden tested positive. The approaches to transparency and accuracy that the two presidential candidates teams have taken on their health are not comparable. Biden, the former vice president, is running against an incumbent who has a long record of falsehoods, and whose White House has withheld critical information and offered misleading or suspect statements, including about the presidents health. During the 2016 campaign, Trump released a letter from his doctor that predicted he would be the healthiest individual ever elected to the presidency; the doctor later said Trump had dictated the letter. And this weekend, the White House offered contradictory messages about the condition of Trump, 74, and even about when he had tested positive for the virus, fueling uncertainty for the country. For Biden, being fully transparent with the public would not just be the ethical approach, but also a smart one, said Dr Kelly Michelson, director of the Center for Bioethics and Medical Humanities at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. It engenders trust in the community, it helps allay fears and concerns. And I also dont really see why you would not be transparent about whats happening, she said. I think that its important that the public knows whats going on. Whit Ayres, a veteran Republican pollster, said the health of both a president and a presidents challenger were of vital public interest. Both candidates should be very forthcoming, he said. Swing voters care as much as anybody about the health of a president or potential president in the middle of a raging pandemic. Also Read: After Trump tests positive, Joe Biden campaign seeks to keep focus on Covid-19 response Going back months, Bidens campaign has not said much about his plans to be tested for the coronavirus. Shortly after the Democratic National Convention in August, a top campaign official said Biden had not been tested for the virus, although testing had been required of others on hand when he gave his speech accepting the nomination. A day later, the campaign announced that Biden and his running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris, would be tested on a regular basis, as would staff members who interacted with them. Bidens campaign announced around midday Friday that Biden had tested negative for the virus, distributing a statement from his doctor about 11 hours after Trump announced that he had tested positive. Since the start of the pandemic, our campaign has led by example and prioritized the health and safety of our supporters, our staff and the public in everything that we do, T.J. Ducklo, a spokesman for the Biden campaign, said Sunday. We take extraordinary measures to ensure we are campaigning safely. The Biden campaigns decision to continue with a planned trip to Grand Rapids, Michigan, on Friday after Biden tested negative raised its own questions, and threatened to undermine the former vice presidents message about putting health and safety above politics. By continuing to campaign after having been exposed to an infected person Trump on Tuesday night, Biden is flouting an important rule in public health, experts said. So, too, is Vice President Mike Pence, who met with the president in the Oval Office on Tuesday and plans to continue campaigning. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, anyone who has been in close contact with an infected person should stay home (quarantine) since symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus, and should stay away from others. Michelson, the bioethicist, said of the former vice president, I dont see why its different for Mr Biden, or Mr Trump, or anybody else, adding, I think like he, like every other citizen, should abide by the CDC guidance. Dr Irwin Redlener, an expert in pandemic response at the Earth Institute at Columbia University who briefly served on a public health advisory committee for the Biden campaign, described himself as satisfied that Biden and Trump had stood sufficiently far apart on the debate stage and suggested that the Biden team shared that view. They believe they were following the rules and theyre not concerned about it, he said, calling the Biden team obsessive about following safety precautions. But he also encouraged additional testing, saying of Biden, He should be getting tested daily, and they should be just continuing to follow the guidelines of Trumps CDC, ironically. UK Ambassador Jill Morris talks to Wanted in Rome about Brexit and Britain's future relationship with Italy and the European Union. By Marco Venturini What are the most recent developments in the Brexit talks with the European Union and what, in your opinion, are the most probable outcomes? Negotiations are still continuing. An agreement is our goal and we believe it is still possible. As our Prime Minister Boris Johnson said we need an agreement by 15 October if it is going to be enforced by the end of the year. There are large areas of convergence on many topics and in other areas we are trying to reduce the gaps. We want a relationship with the EU that is based on our shared history, our shared values and on friendly cooperation. The new relationship should be centred on free trade just like the EU has with other partners such as Canada. How is Brexit going to affect Italy, specifically British citizens living in Italy and Italian citizens living in the UK? The protection of citizens rights for UK nationals in the EU and for EU nationals in the UK has been a top priority of the British government right from the beginning. Weve been working very hard on this here in Rome and with our Italian colleagues in London. The Withdrawal Agreement protects the rights of UK nationals who live, work and receive healthcare in Italy along with their close family members. Their rights are lifelong and last as long as the UK citizen is resident in Italy. The same of course applies to Italian nationals are resident in the UK. Hundreds of thousands of Italians in the UK have already registered for the EU Settlement Scheme and they have time until June 2021 to do so. The settlement scheme is what will give the protection under the Withdrawal Agreement. In Italy we are advising UK nationals to register their residency as soon as possible if they havent done so already, this will allow them to prove their rights under the withdrawal agreement. Weve developed a series of newsletters and guides to provide UK citizens with all the information they might need. We are very active on our Facebook page and social media. We have also produced a series of videos on How to and the first one on how to register your residency is now available on our Facebook page. We have worked with ANCI, Associazione Nazionale Comuni Italiani, to produce a guide for town halls on handling UK nationals this year and that will soon be made available for local authorities and for UK nationals living here. It is important to remember that the Withdrawal Agreement provisions on citizens rights are agreed and remain valid whatever the outcome of the current negotiations on the Future Relationship. Has there been an increase in British citizens moving to Italy or, eventually, moving back to the UK? The latest figures for UK nationals living here show a total of 31,183 for 2019 which is a 6.9 percentage increase on the previous year. The work of the embassy is also focused on giving information to people travelling back and forwards to the EU. We have also developed a special communication campaign to raise awareness on passport controls from next year, and the limit on stay time allowed without visas. How is the embassy going to boost the UKs image in the new year? We have a very big agenda. Bilateral engagement in Italy remains very strong. Here at the embassy we call 2021 The year of presidencies. The United Kingdom is going to hold the presidency of G7 whilst Italy will hold presidency of G20. Furthermore, we are working in partnership on the UN climate change summit, COP26, with the pre-COP to be held in Milan in October and the summit in November in Glasgow. So next year well be working together bilaterally, and it will be the opportunity to show our combined global leadership and drive the green and inclusive economic recovery that both our countries want to see. Our cultural partnership is also flourishing. The British Council has just launched its UK-Italy season of cultural events. A truly fantastic showcase for British artists in Italy. Since September, being in strict adherence to the covid-19 safety protocol, weve started to engage more publicly. My first visit since lockdown has been to San Marino. We are also continuing our work with Italian partners focusing on diversity, women's empowerment, Black Lives Matter and social inclusion. Is there a common strategy in how Italy and the UK are preparing for COP26? We have a great collaboration with our Italian partners. There is a joint task force that has been working to coordinate our international efforts. British and Italian embassies are working together worldwide to drive awareness and ambition, and to help reach the goals of COP26. What will be the UKs strengths and weaknesses post Brexit? I think one of the great strengths for the UK is going to be our membership in a number of international forums: NATO, UN Security Council, G7, G20, Commonwealth just to name a few. We believe our membership gives us the opportunity to work with our international partners to drive our agenda having an advantage on a multilateral level. In terms of a bilateral relationship we have deep personal links. We also have the advantage of working with our European partners. Obviously, this is also a difficult time for all governments that have to deal with health emergencies and are trying to keep citizens safe and our economies alive. This is a challenge for all governments and for the UK as well. What is the future relationship with Italy going to be like? Brexit brings us a number of opportunities. Although the UK has left the EU, we havent left Europe. We have a shared history, culture and values. We want to be a force for good in the world and we want to enable free trade and defend our democracies. All through 2021 the public will see, on the global stage, how UK and Italy will stand shoulder to shoulder to promote and drive our shared interests and shared values. A good example is the work we are doing on vaccines. Weve been working very closely to make sure that when there is a vaccine it is accessible to all. In Rome we also have our representations to the UN agencies, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization, the World Food Programme and the International Fund for Agricultural Development and we are looking at what we can do to bring our common goals together. On a more personal note, how did you spend the recent quarantine, how do you think Italy and the Italians dealt with it, and do you fear the possibility of a new lockdown? I spent quarantine here in Rome and like everybody we very quickly moved to working from home. I have to say Ill never forget hearing the singing from the balconies, hearing the Italian national anthem and the images that we all saw online and on TV. Ill never forget that great sense of solidarity throughout Italy. Everybody has been hugely impressed by how the Italian government responded and how the Italian people have responded with great responsibility to this challenge. Weve just seen the British prime minister announce new restrictions in the UK. We must reduce the level of transmission so its really important that everybody respects the rules. Nobody wants to see a national lockdown anywhere. We must keep people safe and try to protect the economy. Since the beginning of the covid-19 pandemic there has been a huge interest in how other countries responded to the different challenges. As an embassy we inform London on a regular basis on what other countries are doing and what we can learn. We are all trying to learn from each other. Main ph: iassp Arizona News Phoenix, Arizona - Governor Doug Ducey Tuesday announced that Arizona will receive 2.19 million Abbott rapid point-of-care tests from the federal government. The tests can produce results within 15 minutes. Delivery is expected to take place with shipments beginning in the next seven to 10 days. The Arizona Department of Health Services is working with county health departments to prioritize the tests for K-12 schools and congregate care facilities for vulnerable individuals. Arizona is grateful to President Trump for his continued partnership during this pandemic and for once again prioritizing our state, said Governor Ducey. These new FDA-approved rapid tests will allow us to quickly identify cases and prevent outbreaks among our most vulnerable citizens. Combined with the PPE, ventilators and health care workers the White House has provided to Arizona, these tests will go a long way in making sure we are able to continue to safely keep Arizona's economy open. Yesterday, President Trump announced that the administration will distribute more than 150 million rapid Abbott tests around the country in the coming weeks. Of these, roughly 50 million tests will be targeted to vulnerable communities including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, hospice care, and tribal nations. To date, more than 1.4 million diagnostic tests have been completed in Arizona, as well as more than 290,000 serology tests. Last week, Governor Ducey announced $6 million for the development of Arizona State Universitys groundbreaking point-of-need testing, which will allow people such as first responders, health care workers and those in congregate care settings to get COVID-19 test results within minutes. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 01:11:00|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BERLIN, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas on Monday called on Britain to agree on a post-Brexit deal in the face of COVID-19, after a meeting with the European Commission's chief negotiator Michel Barnier in Berlin. The coronavirus pandemic had made negotiations "even more difficult," Maas said. "But it has also made an agreement even more urgent" as people on both sides of the channel were already shouldering challenges. In view of COVID-19 and its negative consequences for the economy, a no-deal would be "totally irresponsible" to citizens, warned Maas, adding that Germany is still seeking a solution. "Our door is still open for a close and ambitious partnership with Britain," he said. Maas noted that many questions remained open in the UK-EU negotiations. "If we still want to make it to the finish line, we must now really make progress on all these open questions." The UK and the EU concluded their ninth round of trade talks in Brussels on Friday, with state subsidy and fisheries remaining two sticking points. Britain and the EU have said a future trade deal needs to be agreed by mid-October to enable it to be approved ahead of Jan. 1, 2021. The two sides started the lengthy and bumpy post-Brexit talks in March after Britain ended its EU membership on Jan. 31. They try to secure a future trade deal before the Brexit transition period expires at the end of the year. If there is no deal in place, Britain will trade with the EU on terms of the World Trade Organization (WTO). "The EU is negotiating with a great will to unite," said Maas, adding that Germany fully supports chief negotiator Barnier, who is "leading the negotiations for the 27 EU member states and has our full confidence." Enditem PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) was honored today as a 2020 National Organization on Disability (NOD) Leading Disability Employer at the organization's Annual Forum, entitled "ADA at 30: What's Next." Now in its sixth year, the NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal recognizes companies that demonstrate exemplary employment practices for people with disabilities. This annual recognition is designed to commend those organizations that are leading the way in disability hiring and encouraging other companies to tap into the many benefits of hiring people with disabilities, including the diverse perspectives they bring to an organization. "We strive to offer a culture of inclusion for every CHOP employee, and individuals with disabilities are represented throughout our workforce, many as subject matter experts and mentors," said Madeline Bell, President and CEO of Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "Our diversity and inclusion efforts for people with all abilities provide a safe and welcoming environment that promotes recruitment and professional development." CHOP's All Abilities Resource Group (AARG) is an employee network that helps to develop and enhance CHOP's diversity efforts by expanding the visibility of people with disabilities in the workplace and offering recommendations for adequate accommodations and resources available throughout the organization for all employees and families. "America's success in the world depends on how well we inspire and put to use the talents and energies of every person in this country," said NOD Chairman Governor Tom Ridge. "It was the vision of President George H.W. Bush, who signed the ADA into law, that no ability is to be wasted and that everyone has a full and equal chance to play a part in our national progress. We at NOD remain committed to seeing that vision fulfilled by working closely with corporate America to help them achieve their disability inclusion goals. These 68 organizations certainly have stepped up and are doing just that, and we applaud their leadership and thank them for their commitment to hiring people with disabilities." The NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal is awarded based on data provided by companies in response to the NOD Disability Employment Tracker, a free and confidential assessment that benchmarks companies' disability inclusion programs in the following areas: Climate & Culture People Practices Talent Sourcing Workplace & Technology Strategy & Metrics While the Tracker is confidential, organizations may opt to be considered for the NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal. Responses are scored, taking into account both disability employment practices and performance. Scoring prioritizes practices that are associated with increased disability employment outcomes over time, and companies receive additional points based on the percentage of people with disabilities in their workforce. About CHOP Children's Hospital of Philadelphia was founded in 1855 as the nation's first pediatric hospital. Through its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional patient care, training new generations of pediatric healthcare professionals and pioneering major research initiatives, Children's Hospital has fostered many discoveries that have benefited children worldwide. Its pediatric research program is among the largest in the country. In addition, its unique family-centered care and public service programs have brought the 564-bed hospital recognition as a leading advocate for children and adolescents. For more information, visit http://www.chop.edu Contact: Joey McCool Ryan (267) 426-6070 [email protected] SOURCE Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Related Links http://www.chop.edu Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 00:23:02|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close RIGA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Due to the sharp increase in COVID-19 infection rate, public transport passengers in Latvia will be required to wear face masks again, the Baltic country's government decided on Monday. The requirement will enter into force on Wednesday and last until Nov. 6. It may be prolonged if the epidemiological situation does not improve sufficiently. If the spread of the infection worsens, some of the existing anti-COVID-19 restrictions could be tightened, especially those concerning gatherings of people, Health Minister Ilze Vinkele told journalists after a government meeting. "If more restrictions are needed, they will be introduced step by step and only when absolutely necessary," Vinkele said. Face masks were obligatory for public transport passengers in Latvia until July 1. The 14-day cumulative number of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people is 29.2 in Latvia, the data of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control showed on Monday. The number was 5.1 two weeks ago. Enditem A Barratt housing development site near Haywards Heath, England. Photo: Peter Nicholls/Reuters Shares in Britains biggest housebuilding firms leapt on Monday, as investors welcomed a new UK government plan to help more young people buy their own homes. Prime minister Boris Johnson said over the weekend the government will fix the challenges many aspiring homeowners face in trying to buy a place of their own. Johnson said the government would encourage more banks to offer mortgages to buyers who can only afford to put up 5% of the value of properties as a deposit. He told the Telegraph he wanted to create Generation Buy among young people, and is reported to have told ministers to draw up measures to boost the availability of such low-deposit loans. READ MORE: Chancellor Rishi Sunak says Conservatives will always balance the books Many banks have reined in such lending since the coronavirus hit, with more caution triggered by the economic crisis and fears over new customers ability to repay loans. Banks have also been prioritising supporting existing customers, including handling mortgage holidays. Details remain scarce on the plans and banks may resist pressure to loosen borrowing restrictions further, but the comments sent leading housebuilding and property stocks higher as markets opened on Monday. Investors appeared encouraged new measures could prove substantial enough to boost demand for new homes. Four of the biggest listed housebuilders were among the fastest-rising companies on the FTSE 100 (^FTSE) in mid-afternoon trading on the stock exchange in London. READ MORE: UK house prices rising at fastest pace in four years Barratt Developments (BDEV.L) was trading 5.4% higher, Persimmon (PSN.L) was up 4.3%, and Taylor Wimpey (TW.L) and Berkeley Group (BKG.L) were up 2.4%. Shares in property listings site Rightmove (RMV.L) were also up 3.3%. Meanwhile Vistry Group (VTY.L), previously known as Bovis Homes, saw some of the biggest daily gains on the mid-cap FTSE 250 (^FTMC) index, trading 4.9% higher. "Mr Johnson clearly wants to assist younger people get on the property ladder, and the story has boosted the likes of Barratt Developments, Persimmon and Vistry Group PLC," said David Madden, a market analyst at CMC Markets UK. Story continues Joshua Mahony, senior market analyst at IG, said the promises had given housebuilders a welcome leg up to housebuilding stocks. From a housebuilder perspective, the constant support shown by this government will highlight the expectation that housing demand will remain strong through a bottleneck of Brexit and Covid factors. Ministers are reported to be considering significant new government guarantees for buyers, as under the Help to Buy scheme. Such measures could prove popular but also controversial, fueling further market growth while shifting the risk from banks and borrowers to the taxpayer amid rising economic uncertainty. Watch: What is shared ownership? When it comes to deforestation in countries like Brazil and Indonesia, the global food industry has a lot to answer for. Britain is drawing up legislation to force the sector to tighten oversight of its supply chains. But 20 large companies say its not enough. In an open letter, supermarkets like Tesco, Marks & Spencer and Morrisons and food manufacturers like Unilever and Nestle welcomed the legislation plans as a "step forward" but said "it's not currently envisioned to be enough to halt deforestation and we encourage the government to go further." Under the proposed plan, large companies would have to report on how they source tropical commodities, such as cocoa, palm oil and soy. The companies would also be banned from using products that are harvested illegally in their country of origin. But companies say the proposed new law has a major loophole: farmers in developing countries can often clear forests to grow cash crops for export without breaking any laws. The companies want the new British rules to apply to all deforestation - not just in cases where the destruction is illegal. Campaign group Mighty Earth, said the proposed legislation would continue to allow rampant deforestation in hotspots such as Indonesia and Brazil. (SOUNDBITE) (Portuguese) BRAZILIAN PRESIDENT, JAIR BOLSONARO, SAYING: "Brazil is the country that preserves the environment the most. Some don't understand that. It's the country that suffers the most attacks from abroad regarding its environment." Deforestation and forest fires this year have emitted 250 million tons of carbon dioxide, equivalent to annual emissions of 48.8 million cars, according to a calculation by IPAM and U.S.-based Woodwell Climate Research Center. RALEIGH, NC / ACCESSWIRE / October 5, 2020 / Omnicanna Health Solutions, Inc. (OTC PINK:ENDO), a U.S. Company specializing in hemp formulation-based health and wellness solutions, is pleased to announce it will release its Industrial Hemp Real-Time Negotiating eCommerce website, October 9, 2020. Featuring Advanced Disruptive Real-Time Negotiating Technology. Providing powerful online tools to All Buyers and Sellers of Industrial Hemp products, services, supplies to navigate, find & track Inventory, to purchase or negotiate live Worldwide. The system will provide private, one-on-one, and one-to-many negotiations while dynamically loading and matching inventory changes while instantly updating new inventory and opportunities in real-time. Providing advanced and key visionary tools in a saturated Industrial Hemp Market, exclusive industrial hemp online trading technology. This version of the LNC technology includes industrial, medical, wholesale, and retail products and consumer goods derived from Industrial Hemp, Worldwide. Instant MULTIPLE Live Negotiating SIMULTANEOUSLY Load and Track ALL your INDUSTRIAL HEMP Inventory and Products FUTURE BUYS and Inventory Price Tracking, 24/7 in Real-Time Farmers Direct, Live Negotiating or INSTANT SALES Find BUYERS online instantly, 24/7 online, Non-Stop. Sell; Bales, Grain, Oils, Resin, Powders, Liquids, etc... Buy; Seeds, Fiber, Pulp, Biomass, 24/7 in Real-Time. Track what you want, when you Want, Farm to Retail, Retail to Local, National, 24/7 Now. Industrial Hemp Research Products, FDA Targeted Studies Nutraceuticals, Cosmeceuticals, Medicinal Products, 24/7 HEMP Clothing, Paper, Cement, Prefab Construction Manufacturers Direct, Live Negotiating or INSTANT SALES BUSINESS TO BUSINESS, MARKETPLACE TO MARKETPLACE We will connect EVERYONE for REAL-TIME LIVE ACCESS, 24/7 Partnerships, Licensing, Jobs, Commissions, Worldwide! LNC Exclusive License OMNICANNA joins an exclusive licensing group headed by Live Negotiator Corporation (LNC), which includes XRAYMEDIA, OMNICANNA, Cannabis Science (CSi-EDP), and a few more to be announced. The licensing group shares the revenues derived from each technology released based on their financial support and operational involvement. All LNC technologies added to the CSi-EDP add more strength to Cannabis Science and OMNICANNA. Story continues Amazon, eBay, Ali Baba, Airbnb, and the rest of the online e-commerce giants have certainly paved the way for new disruptive advanced technology such as ours. The goal is to effectively connect and create seamless real-time access and traditional negotiations online. The licensing group will be releasing several more versions for targeted market penetration, such as real estate, autos, media, and a few more key industry sectors. The first release under this new format is the www.livenegotiator.com launched earlier this year live in Beta Now, OMNICANNA is receiving 20% of all transaction fees for www.livenegotiator.com. October 9, 2020 Beta Launch for the Industrial Hemp live trading system, wholesale and retail eCommerce, after-sales fees, OMNICANNA is receiving 70% of all transaction fees and assumes operations lead. About the Cannabis Science CSi-EDP The Cannabis Science Economic Development Plan (CSi-EDP) is a self-driven community program mainly focused on drug development, education, and job creation. It consists of a number of Cannabis Science collaborations and partnerships. The drug development collaborations and partnerships are focused on critical drug and therapeutic development. This development is derived from the cannabis and hemp plants, ranging from the highest level of FDA drug development medical research to wholesale, retail distribution and commercialization on a State by State level. The rest of the programs are growing in range and associated with various active industries worldwide. The CSi-EDP targets demographics that need jobs and economic development in the following areas: DEPT. AGRICULTURE SPECIALIZING IN R&D OF INDUSTRIAL HEMP AND CANNABIS PLANTS This is a massive, growing, and untapped industry that will directly benefit its participants through job creation and revenue streams. HEALTHCARE INFRASTRUCTURE Hospitals, Health Centers, and Educational Facilities. FOOD SECURITY AND AGRICULTURE Sound agricultural practices producing sufficient foo. EDUCATION AND TRAINING Development in the sectors of drug development/treatment, agriculture, communications, investments, political environments, and over 30 other common industries. TECHNOLOGY/TELECOMMUNICATIONS Satellite, internet, mechanical device development, cellphone, TV/Media. POLITICAL AND POLICY ENVIRONMENTS Policy, regulatory, and jurisdictional contexts. PROVIDING HYBRID FOCUSED INTERACTIVE TRAINING Online, in class, and in-field training gives our students the flexibility and hands-on education to learn their trade. EMPHASIZING PRACTICAL ENTREPRENEURIAL EDUCATION Students graduate with a company or the skills to create jobs in the community, not just look for jobs. OFFERING AFFORDABLE AND EASY ACCESS TO EDUCATION Our unique hybrid education model allows for courses at a low-priced rate. Scholarships and subsidized packages are available to qualifying students. TARGETING DISTRESSED COMMUNITIES Affordable and entrepreneurial education means we can help struggling communities build themselves up in virtually any industry of focus. About The Hempery The Hempery products truly are nature's perfect skincare because they contain an abundance of pure hemp seed oil and coconut oil. Hemp seed oil has been called "nature's perfect food for humanity." Hemp seed contains rich proteins and fatty acids, including Omega-3 and Omega-6s. Hemp seed contains all the essential amino acids necessary for human life. Our proprietary formulas are rich in hemp seed oil and coconut oil. These products are flavored with organic essential oils that makes them ultra appealing and effective. The base of all the products in The Hempery collection is the unique plan of an ultra-nutritious treat for the skin. Your skin can now experience the miracle of these benefits every day. About Omnicanna Health Solutions, Inc. Omnicanna Health Solutions, Inc. is currently developing new natural hemp-based products based on innovative formulations to utilize the unique and potent benefits of the hemp plant. Medicinal properties of hemp have been known and applied for thousands of years. With the aid of scientific research, Omnicanna Health Solutions is translating such knowledge into development of effective hemp formulation-based health and wellness solutions as well as cosmeceutical, nutraceutical, and food brands throughout the world. The Company's health and wellness, nutritional, and cosmetics lines will address personal needs and will evolve with the introduction of new formulations and products, advancing the Company within the expanding multibillion-dollar global market. Forward-Looking Statements This Press Release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934. A statement containing words such as "anticipate," "seek," intend," "believe," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "project," or similar phrases may be deemed "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Some or all of the events or results anticipated by these forward-looking statements may not occur. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include the future U.S. and global economies, the impact of competition, and the Company's reliance on existing regulations regarding the use and development of cannabis-based drugs and products. The Company does not undertake any duty, nor does it intend to update the results of these forward-looking statements. CONTACT: Omnicanna Health Solutions, Inc 3201 Edwards Mill Road Suite 141-233 Raleigh, North Carolina 27612 http://www.omnicanna.com info@Omnicanna.com +1.719.640.7360 Robert Kane +1.719.640.7360 President info@omnicanna.com SOURCE: Omnicanna Health Solutions, Inc. View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/609122/OMNICANNA-to-Launch-its-Industrial-Hemp-Real-Time-Trading-eCommerce-Website-October-9-2020-Featuring-Disruptive-Real-Time-Negotiating-Technology-Providing-All-Buyers-and-Sellers-Powerful-Tools-to-Navigate-Find-Track-Industrial-Hemp-Inventory By Tana French Viking. 464pp. $27 - - - "The Searcher," by Tana French, is a slow burn of a suspense story. As in that apocryphal myth of the frog in boiling water, the novel lulls us readers to lie back and bask in French's radiant imagery and language - in particular, its descriptions of the rough beauty of the West of Ireland where the story takes place. Then, the heat is turned up, higher and higher. By novel's end, anyplace - even the grimiest, meanest streets of hard-boiled crime fiction - seems preferable to the sinister and silent watchfulness of the lush Irish countryside. As French has acknowledged in interviews, the title of her latest stand-alone crime novel is a nod to the John Ford masterpiece, "The Searchers." Like Ford's 1956 film, French's novel is essentially a Western. (Perhaps even that "West of Ireland" setting is a sly wink at the novel's generic origins.) A lone man, an outsider, is drawn into an obsessive quest to find a young person who has disappeared. In Ford's film, Civil War veteran Ethan Edwards, played by John Wayne, searches for his niece who was abducted from her family's homestead by a Comanche raiding party. French's "old soldier" is named Cal Hooper. He's divorced, semi-estranged from his adult daughter and recently retired from the Chicago Police Department. With no ties to bind him, Cal has acted on his dream and bought a tumbledown Irish cottage advertised on the Internet. It's so remote, he can blast his favorite Johnny Cash tunes as he spackles and paints, and only the sheep might complain. If the condition of the cottage was somewhat misleading, other aspects of Cal's new surroundings delight him. "The air is rich as fruitcake, like you should do more with it than just breathe it; bite off a big mouthful, maybe, or rub handfuls of it over your face." But, as the mists of autumn close in, Cal realizes that he's not as alone as he thought. The back of his neck - "trained over twenty-five years in the Chicago PD" - registers a watcher, someone who's been creeping around the cottage and disturbing the nesting rooks. When Cal corners the voyeur, he turns out to be a wayward adolescent named Trey Reddy, who lives on a nearby mountain with his single mother and siblings. Before long, Trey is coming around regularly to help Cal and to learn carpentry. One thing Trey doesn't need to learn is that Cal is an ex-cop. (Everyone in the nearest village has sussed out by Celtic telepathy that the American-who-bought-the-cottage is an ex-cop.) Eventually, Trey confesses the real reason he's been hanging around: He wants Cal to find out what happened to his beloved 19-year-old brother, Brendan, who vanished from the family cottage months ago. The local police have been useless, prejudiced, as they are, against the entire Reddy family as a pack of lazy troublemakers. So it is that Cal, despite his reluctance, gets drawn into the case - as we readers know he will - because that's what makes these quiet men who preside over Westerns and detective novels the flawed heroes they are. In the process of searching for Brendan, Cal ferrets out a bog's worth of secrets and sins festering beneath this quaint patch of the Auld Sod. To even disclose this much of the plot of "The Searcher" is a minor crime, because the great power of this suspense story comes from its slow, measured pacing and the intensifying evil of its atmosphere. One of the most unsettling moments in the novel is an extended scene in which Cal visits the local pub called Sean Og's - basically, another isolated cottage in a field - and the men who are gathered there press shot after shot of the locally crafted "poteen" on him. As a tin whistle plays in the background and the men joke and Cal gets drunker, one part of his brain registers that he's being subtly "warned off" the investigation into Brendan's disappearance. And, it's not only the human residents of the area who are all-too-knowledgeable about Cal's movements. The very landscape seems to be in collusion with whatever malevolent forces spirited Brendan away. Here's Cal walking down a lane and ruing his impulsive life choices: "The morning has turned lavishly beautiful. The autumn sun gives the greens of the fields an impossible, mythic radiance and transforms the back roads into light-muddled paths where a goblin with a riddle, or a pretty maiden with a basket, could be waiting around every gorse-and-bramble bend. Cal is in no mood to appreciate any of it. He feels like this specific beauty is central to the illusion that lulled him into stupidity, turned him into the peasant gazing slack-jawed at this handful of gold coins till they melt into dead leaves in front of his eyes." French's writing, as that passage illustrates, is eerie and nuanced. Indeed, even though her Dublin Murder Squad series and her other stand-alone mystery, "The Witch Elm," have been uniformly excellent, this hushed suspense tale about thwarted dreams of escape may be her best yet. Like the John Ford film it pays homage to, "The Searcher" is its own kind of masterpiece. - - - Corrigan, who is the book critic for the NPR program Fresh Air, teaches literature at Georgetown University. Beyond all the obvious risks of a migrating virus are threats to social welfare that remain just as troubling. Since the virus emerged in March, it has both provoked and accompanied major civil tensions. It has been a vector for rage. Any inability to contain an outbreak originating in several places among a single ethnic group in this case a religious minority, traditional in its habits, resistant to science and government intervention was in danger of feeding existing prejudices, of escalating animosities and division. For weeks preceding the mayors shutdown, the city had been working on outreach efforts in the concerning neighborhoods, efforts that in some cases, seemed to lack the sensitivity and attention to difference that was necessary. Into mid-September, there were no Yiddish speaking contact tracers employed by the city. As important as disseminating information in Yiddish is, the language is not universally spoken in every Orthodox community. At one point, the city was blasting announcements in Yiddish in neighborhoods in Queens, where Russian, English or Hebrew would have been more appropriate. On Twitter, Daniel Rosenthal, a state assemblyman representing the area, asked for someone to please tell the mayor that not all Jews speak Yiddish. Mr. de Blasio, in fact, has a long history with the Orthodox in Brooklyn; as a member of the City Council, he represented Borough Park. He had their support in his mayoral bids and even in his presidential run. But in the background, David Zwiebel, a prominent national spokesman for the Orthodox community told me, there were many who were wary of Mr. de Blasios vocal branding as a progressive, a term that the community regards with suspicion. Early in the pandemic, hundreds in the Orthodox community died of Covid-19, and when the death of one rabbi in April drew crowds of mourners in disregard of the lockdown, the mayor showed up at the funeral himself, enraged, to make sure they dispersed. He then produced a series of angry responses on Twitter and elsewhere, igniting the communitys backlash. More recently, Rabbi Zwiebel said, after a meeting between religious leaders and city officials that the rabbi felt ended in a spirit of collaboration, came what were viewed as bullying emails with threats about further shutting down yeshivas. Clearly there were problems of sensitivity and tone. Without the cooperation of religious leaders, who seem to have the only true sway over their constituents, there is little hope of changing direction. There are encouraging signs, like an internal push for more testing in the community: flyers in Yiddish went up in Brooklyn, alerting people to testing sites, and rabbis issued warnings about the perils of large gatherings. Paulie Hawthorne is used to fire. She grew up in southeastern Oregon, long a hotbed for wildfires. I can remember, even as a kid, there were fires. I mean, it was just kind of a thing that happened, Hawthorne, 47, said. Hawthorne and her husband had to evacuate in 2017 from their old home in Brookings, Oregon, during the 2017 Chetco Bar wildfire, which burned through more than 190,000 acres, including about 80,000 acres in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. Today she lives in Klamath Falls, Oregon, a small city about 280 miles south of Portland that has seen frequent, low-intensity fires over the years. While her current exposure has been mild, when she smells smoke in the air or simply sees ashy skies, it pulls her back. The hardest part about evacuating is you just think it's gonna be like a couple days, and we were out for almost a month, she explained. Paulie Hawthorne (Courtesy of Paulie Hawthorne) The lingering dread associated with fires isnt unique to Hawthorne, and the wildfires that have devastated large chunks of Oregon and California arent just decimating towns and driving residents away. Mental health experts say the fear and uncertainty that comes with wildfires can cause long-term psychological impact on residents. Worse yet, just as the region is seeing a growing increase in people seeking therapy, there is a deficit in available therapeutic resources. Darla Gale, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in trauma and founder of Heartstrings Counseling in Loomis, California, said it is the unknown that is causing an abundance of stress and anxiety. We have had a tremendous increase in calls just in the last few months. Its been overwhelming. Ive had to hire seven more therapists to handle the load, she said. Many of her clients were previously victims of the 2018 Camp Fire, a deadly and damaging California fire that took nearly 90 lives. For the fire survivors, it's the PTSD because of the smoke, she said, using the acronym for post-traumatic stress disorder. But she also noted that some who survived the Camp Fire have now had to re-evacuate. Its trauma on top of trauma. Story continues Darla Gale, of Loomis, Calif., in her office. (Courtesy of Darla Gale) Even residents who did not lose their homes say these wildfires have a lasting impact on their ability to manage daily life, even outside the direct path of destruction. During the Two Four Two wildfire which ravaged Klamath County, Oregon, in September Hawthorne said she and her husband had trouble sleeping and were obsessively checking the sky and internet for information. Though they live some 15 miles away from the path of the fire, they simply didnt feel safe. We both almost felt a compulsion to start getting our stuff together, she said. Hawthorne, who is a social worker and mental health therapist, said she is very familiar with the symptoms of trauma and PTSD. But that knowledge has not made dealing with wildfire anxiety any easier. There are triggers, she notes, every time you smell smoke, every time somebody says there's a fire close by or close by somebody's house, Hawthorne said. She explained that the hardest part is the worry she feels in coming across these indicators and how her awareness of wildfires has made her hypervigilant. The fear that odor evokes, and even the word "fire" engenders, she explained, are a part of the long-term mental health effects that we're not really equipped to handle, referring to this extreme awareness. Lisa Lovelace, a therapist and owner of Synergy eTherapy, an online group practice that offers mental health counseling to residents in 17 states, said over the past few months her practice has gone from 13 to 15 clinicians to handle the stress burden and influx of new clients. Lovelace has been a licensed clinician since 2007 and running this practice for about four years. People are just feeling it in an intense way that I dont think maybe theyve ever felt, and then people that are already predisposed for anxiety or depression or history of trauma already are being exacerbated, Lovelace said. Nikki Phillips, 27, of Portland, Oregon, said she is no stranger to evacuations having grown up in southern Louisiana, a hurricane zone. But that doesnt make it easier. No matter how many times you do it, it still hurts when you have to leave your home, she said. She experienced Oregons Eagle Creek Fire in 2017 which burned through over 48,000 acres of land in the Columbia River Gorge over a span of three months. "But now its 2020, and we still dont have proper tools to handle these disasters," she said. "Its kind of hard to have good mental health days when your world is, literally, on fire." Lovelace said its not just the clients: Even the therapists in her practice are feeling the impact. Whats interesting is our therapists are rarely in a traumatic environment with our patients, but now therapists are holding it for themselves, their families and their clients, she said, adding, We are really feeling the brunt of what others in the nation are feeling. Lovelaces colleagues arent the only mental health experts who have been experiencing this wildfire anxiety firsthand. The pandemic, wildfires and heat waves are affecting the mental well-being of Ali Mattu, a clinical psychologist and resident of Santa Clara, California. Though Mattu isnt in a spot where he needs to evacuate, he said the mix has made him feel limited. As someone who works in the mental health field, Mattu intellectually knows the tools needed to cope. But, you know, deep breathing is not something that's going to get you through multiple crises that are compounding each other, and real limitations on what you can do, he said. The combination of the wildfires with the strain of the coronavirus pandemic has increased the need for mental health treatment while also revealing the inequalities in the rate of infection. Hawthorne has seen this firsthand in her work in a tribal behavioral health clinic. Now we're also thinking in the back of our mind, 'Do I get too close? Do I touch them? How many people have they been exposed to?' she explained. Over the past few months, the coronavirus pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on Native Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC found confirmed coronavirus cases for American Indians and Alaskan Natives in 23 states to be 3 1/2 times greater than that of non-Hispanic white people. But ensuring safe coronavirus practices including social distancing, wearing masks and resisting touch have posed additional hurdles in treating mental health. Its hard to comfort people whove experienced loss when you cannot come close. Gale, the California-based trauma therapist, advocates for plenty of rest, exercising, eating [and] taking care of your body. Further, she added, We like to teach a lot of mindfulness and being in the present. To take charge of a situation that seems out of control, Gale teaches her clients to move away from identities that dont serve them. You can be a victim, or a survivor, or you're a thriver. While it may be difficult to come out of unhealthy patterns, people have to stop thinking in victim mode," she said. We have a few people that have lost everything, yet theyre rebuilding their life and theyre thriving from that. Theyre not getting stuck in that path. In working in the community space, Hawthorne said, Once the fire is out, that's just the beginning. Oct. 5, 9:32 am: An earlier version of this article misspelled in a caption the name of the town in California where Darla Gale's office is. It Loomis, not Lumos. The caption has been updated. Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain The homemade cloth masks recommended for slowing the spread of COVID-19 seem to expel invisible cotton fibers into the air as people talk, cough or even breatheunderscoring the importance of regularly washing them, researchers say. In experiments, researchers found that medical-grade maskssurgical and N95blocked most exhaled "particles" from the wearer's mouth. But the results with cloth masks, fashioned from T-shirt material, were surprising. People actually emitted more invisible particles while wearing a cloth mask than with no mask at all. And that, researchers said, was because the masks released microscopic cotton fibers. There's no proof at this point that the fibers can carry infectious viral particles. And experts stressed that everyone should keep wearing masks according to public health guidance. "They didn't show that infectious particles are being released," said Ravina Kullar, a spokesperson for the Infectious Diseases Society of America. "So it's not clear what this means from an infectious disease standpoint." And certainly, she added, people would put themselves at greater risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2 if they went out in public mask-free. William Ristenpart, the senior researcher on the work, agreed that no one should take the findings as an argument against mask-wearing. "That's not what we're saying at all," said Ristenpart, a professor of chemical engineering at the University of California, Davis. Instead, he thinks the practical message is this: Wash your mask after each wearing. If tiny cotton fibers are released into the air, let them be as clean as possible. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other health authorities urge the people to wear a cloth mask when they are out in public, especially in places where it is hard to maintain physical distance from others. The CDC recommends wearing masks with at least two layers of fabric, and says "simple masks can be made at home with washable, breathable fabric." It's not clear, however, exactly how well such homemade masks work. No one is going to run a clinical trial where people are randomly assigned to either wear masks or walk around mask-free. There is less-direct evidence supporting mask-wearing in the general public, however. Kullar pointed to the well-publicized case of a Missouri hair salon where two stylists had symptomatic COVID-19. Following local law, the salon required all stylists and patrons to wear face coverings. An investigation found that none of the stylists' 139 clients or secondary contacts became ill, and none of the clients who volunteered for testing were positive for the virus. But Ristenpart said lab tests like this one can give more insight into how effective different face coverings are at blocking particles from escaping into the air. For the study, his team recruited 10 volunteers. Each sat in front of a funnel in a laminar flow cabinet. The funnel drew air from in front of their faces into a device that measured the size and number of particles they exhaled. The volunteers wore either no mask, a medical-grade surgical mask, two types of N95 mask, a homemade paper mask or homemade one- or two-layer cloth mask made from a cotton T-shirt according to CDC directions. The medical masks substantially reduced the particles people emitted, versus no maskby an average of 90% when they were talking, and 74% when they coughed. In contrast, wearing cloth masks increased the number of tiny "micron-scale" particles that people emitted. That appeared to be from the release of cotton fibers. The big unknown is whether those tiny fibers matter. In a study published in August, Ristenpart's team found that it is possible for the flu virus to be carried in the air by microscopic fibers and even dust. But no one has shown that with SARS-CoV-2, he said. And even if tiny fibers are capable of carrying the virus, the next question would be whether they can transmit an infection. On the positive side, cloth masks did cut the number of larger-size particles that people emitted. But because the material itself released fibers, Ristenpart said it was not possible to assess how well the masks worked against tiny respiratory particles. He and Kullar both agreed on the bottom line: Keep wearing, and regularly washing, those cotton masks. The general public should not buy up medical-grade masks, Kullar said, since they are still in short supply for health care workers in some areas. The findings were recently published online in the journal Scientific Reports. Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Copyright 2020 HealthDay. All rights reserved. Cambodia's government on Monday officially denied suggestions that its demolition of a US-funded facility at one of its naval bases is a signal that will be granted basing privileges there, saying the work only involves planned improvements. The statement by the National Committee for Maritime Security was in response to recent media reports highlighting new concerns over China's suspected plans for Cambodia's Ream Naval Base on the Gulf of Thailand. The stories were based on satellite photos showing the demolished facility and statements from Cambodian officials. The committee said its Tactical Command Headquarters, an operational unit responsible for implementing multi-agency law enforcement in cooperation with the United States and Australia, had been a temporary structure, and plans were begun in late 2017 to relocate it. It said the existing facility was too small and lacked docking facilities, with limited capacity for training and other activities, so a larger facility was being established at a new location, with no change in function or relationships with foreign partners. is Cambodia's closest political ally and main source of economic support, through aid and investment. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen declared in June that has not been given exclusive rights to use the base, while also saying that warships from all nations, including the United States, are welcome to dock there. He pointed out that Cambodia's Constitution does not allow foreign military bases to be established on its soil. The Wall Street Journal reported last year that an early draft of a reputed agreement seen by US officials would allow China 30-year use of the Ream base, where it would be able to post military personnel, store weapons and berth warships. Western analysts believe basing rights in would extend Beijing's strategic military profile considerably, and tilt the regional balance of power in a manner that would pressure adjacent countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations whose security concerns traditionally have been aligned more closely with the United States. Speculation about China being allowed military facilities in the area was heightened by a deal giving a Chinese company control over a large part of the coastline, and construction of an airport on its land that appeared to be designed to accommodate military aircraft as well as civilian planes. The US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control announced last month that it was imposing sanctions under US law on China's Union Development Group Co. Ltd., the company behind the coastal land deal. It charged that the company forced Cambodians from their land and devastated the environment, hurting the livelihoods of local communities, all under the guise of converting into a regional logistics hub and tourist destination. The Treasury Department said in announcing the sanctions that the Chinese company in 2008 acquired a 99-year lease from Cambodia's government for the development of the Dara Sakor project covering almost 20 per cent of Cambodia's coastline by forming a local company to become the leaseholder. The company later reverted to Chinese ownership, the Treasury Department 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.) Mike Foster, a former two-term Republican governor of Louisiana who shepherded the state through a period of relative calm in the wake of the corruption scandals of his flamboyant predecessor, Edwin W. Edwards, and before the devastation of Hurricane Katrina died on Sunday at his home in Franklin, La. He was 90. Marsanne Golsby, his longtime former spokeswoman, confirmed the death. After two terms as a Democratic state senator, Mr. Foster switched to the Republican Party in 1995 in the midst of his successful first run for governor, joining a broader Republican realignment among conservative white Southerners in the latter half of the century. During that campaign, Mr. Foster publicly welcomed the endorsement of David Duke, the former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan who had lost a runoff election for governor four years earlier. It was later revealed that Mr. Foster had bought Mr. Dukes list of contributors and supporters. But the general tone of Mr. Fosters eight years in office was one of business-oriented conservatism with a dose of practicality. He oversaw increased funding for schools and for higher education and supported a major retooling of the state tax system to make it less regressive. These and other achievements, his supporters argued, improved the lives of working-class people, including many of those from minority groups who were vilified by the likes of Mr. Duke. Last November, Trump made a surprise visit to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. White House officials said that he was there for a routine physical check-up, but reporters werent inclined to believe that; as the Daily Beasts Sam Stein put it at the time, When youve burned all your credibility on big, medium and petty matters you lose the benefit of the doubt on important stuff. Nowwith Trump back at Walter Reed following his positive test for COVID-19stuff could hardly be more important, and the president and his spokespeople still seem to expect us all to suspend our disbelief. The result was a mind-bending weekend that began with Trump being taken to the hospital and ended with him parading outside of it in an SUV so he could wave to his supporters (it was like Michael Jackson dangling a baby over a balcony, CNNs Brian Stelter said), with lie after lie after lie sandwiched in between. The messaging mess drew comparisons to the empires of old, to North Korea, and to the Soviet Unionthe real thing, as well as the version imagined in the satirical movie The Death of Stalin. The questions and confusion began in the early hours of Friday morning, after Trump announced his diagnosis via Twitter, and intensified in the early evening, as Marine One lifted off from the White House for Walter Reed. Trumps doctors declined to hold a briefing while that was going on. On Saturday, they did hold one, giving a sunny accounting of the presidents health. They neglected to state that Trump had been administered oxygenand after the briefing finished, an anonymous source gave a quote to reporters on the scene that contradicted what the doctors had just said: The presidents vitals over the last twenty-four hours were very concerning and the next forty-eight hours will be critical in terms of his care. Were still not on a clear path yet to a full recovery. The source, we soon learned, was Mark Meadows, Trumps chief of staff. After a video emerged that showed him asking reporters if he could speak off the record, Meadows agreed to let the Associated Press put his name to the comment. He also gave an on-the-record interview to Reuters in which he appeared to contradict his own contradiction, stating that, actually, Trump was doing very well, and that his doctors were very pleased with his vital signs; later, Meadows told Fox News that he had been concerned about Trump, but had since observed an unbelievable improvement. Still, Trump was reportedly furious when he learned of Meadowss initial remark. On Saturday afternoon, he dictated a statement to Rudy Giuliani, who in turn relayed it to the New York Post. You go tell people Im watching this coverage, the statement read. I feel I could get out of here right now. Trump also put out a video, and photos showing him at work. In one of them, he appeared to be signing a blank piece of paper. Related: Disbelief and Trumps diagnosis The doctors Saturday briefing didnt just present a misleading picture of Trumps healthit also muddied the timeline as to when Trump learned of his diagnosis. Sean Conley, Trumps physician, said it had been seventy-two hours since Trumps positive test, while another doctor said it had been forty-eight hours since Trump received an experimental treatment: by this accounting, Trump would have tested positive around midday last Wednesday and received treatment around the same time on Thursday. (Remember: he tweeted out his diagnosis early Friday morning, having traveled to New Jersey for a fundraiser on Thursday.) Later, Conley put out a statement (which itself contained several errors) claiming that he misspoke. Yesterday, Conley fronted another briefing. He started out by offering some hard details, but things quickly descended into farce again. When a reporter asked him why he hadnt mentioned Trumps oxygen dosage the day before, Conley replied, I didnt want to give any information that might steer the course of illness in another direction, and in doing so, it came off that we were trying to hide something, which wasnt necessarily true. As quotes go, it was less pithy than Kellyanne Conways alternative facts or Giulianis truth isnt truth; nonetheless, it deserves its place in the pantheon of the Trumpworld absurd. Unsurprisingly, all the lies, contradictions, and obfuscation went down poorly with the Washington press corps. What is the actual state of President Trumps health? a palpably-exasperated Jonathan Swan, of Axios, asked on Saturday. Its one of the most high-stakes questions in the world, and I cannot answer it, despite having spent since 5am on Friday on my phone with sources inside and close to the White House. New Yorks Olivia Nuzzi and Ben Jacobs wrote that the White House is at war with the virus, with itself, and with realitythough not necessarily in that order; the Meadows remark, ABCs Jon Karl told the Washington Post, was a reminder that you can really take almost nothing that is on the record at face value. According to Swan, Nuzzi, Jacobs, and others, even people within the White House were clueless as to what was going on. Many people who were exposed to Trump last weekJoe Biden among themsaid they found out about Trumps diagnosis via the media. Sign up for CJR 's daily email Also among the exposed: the members of the press who traveled on Air Force One and were present at the White House last week. Since Friday, at least four reporters covering the White House have tested positive for COVID. Only one of themMichael D. Shear, of the New York Timeshas been named; he told the Post that while he accepts an inevitable element of risk in doing his job, there are some things the White House could have done to minimize the risk more. Officials havent always allowed for adequate social distancing among reporters and frequently address them without wearing masks; in May, Trump even told Jeff Mason, of Reuters, to take his mask off, and accused Mason of being politically correct when he refused. Last Thursday, Kayleigh McEnany, the White House press secretary, briefed reporters indoors without a mask even though Hope Hicks, a senior Trump aide, had already tested positive. On Friday, Meadows went maskless while addressing reporters outdoors; yesterday, Alyssa Farah, the White House communications director, did likewise, even though she was briefing that aides would henceforth wear masks. Farah said shed misplaced hers after doing an interview on Fox. Given these myriad informational and health challenges, many reporters on the ground did excellent, clear work over the weekend. But it wasnt enough to stop confusion from pooling out across the mainstream media landscape as a whole. In the absence of reliable facts, cable news shows often resorted to alarmist speculation and blatherincluding, disappointingly, from medical expertsreading between the lines of Trumps treatment regimen, as well as the fact that he was hospitalized at all. (The many dark inferences that were drawn from the latter fact may be justified, but we dont know that yet, and comparing Trump to COVID patients in the wider population is fraught; the president, after all, doesnt have to fight a resource-strained triage system to win hospital admittance.) At the other end of the spectrum, major outlets parroted the optimism of Trumps doctors in headlines and push notifications, including their claim that Trump could be discharged as soon as today. (Even if that claim reflects an honest assessment, we know that COVID symptoms can wax and wane in their early days.) As I wrote on Friday, while reporters peer through the murk to get to the truth of Trumps condition, the rest of us should cut out the speculation and credulity and pin this story to what we know for sure. In addition to the known facts I listed FridayTrumps responsibility for the massive national COVID death toll, his subversion of public-health measures, and so onhis White Houses war on transparency and the truth is itself a key part of the story that we can broadcast now. It shows contempt for the work of the press and, by extension, the American peopleto go with the contempt Trump has shown for journalists physical health, for the health of his own donors in New Jersey, for the health of the agents who had to ride with him for his SUV photo op yesterday, and so on. Unlike Trumps condition, the contempt is crystal clear. Below, more on Trump, the coronavirus, and lies: Disbelief: On Friday, after Trump announced his diagnosis, many observersincluding respected journalistssuggested that the president might be faking it, giving his history of lying. Betsy Morais, CJRs managing editor, found the resulting conversation disorienting. Waking up, one received a mixed message, she wrote Friday: a contingent that typically stands up for journalism was arguing that the latest coverage was to be taken with a grain of salt; that, really, you cant believe everything you read; that since Trump lies, stories about what he says are inherently suspect. On Friday, after Trump announced his diagnosis, many observersincluding respected journalistssuggested that the president might be faking it, giving his history of lying. Betsy Morais, CJRs managing editor, found the resulting conversation disorienting. Waking up, one received a mixed message, she wrote Friday: a contingent that typically stands up for journalism was arguing that the latest coverage was to be taken with a grain of salt; that, really, you cant believe everything you read; that since Trump lies, stories about what he says are inherently suspect. How to cover a sick old man: Ben Smith, media columnist at the Times, writes that most political journalists are currently too squeamish to tell uncomfortable truths about Americas gerontocracy. Instead, he writes, we need a reporting culture thats ready to handle the public decline of this generation of leaders, as long as they insist on declining in public. Searching questions about everything from sleep to cognition shouldnt be off limits. Smith also reports that, since Trumps diagnosis, major newspapers have assigned top reporters to polish his obituary. Ben Smith, media columnist at the Times, writes that most political journalists are currently too squeamish to tell uncomfortable truths about Americas gerontocracy. Instead, he writes, we need a reporting culture thats ready to handle the public decline of this generation of leaders, as long as they insist on declining in public. Searching questions about everything from sleep to cognition shouldnt be off limits. Smith also reports that, since Trumps diagnosis, major newspapers have assigned top reporters to polish his obituary. Anger at ABC: On Tuesday, Chris Christie, the Trump adviser and former governor of New Jersey, came to the studio of ABC News, where hes a contributor, to take part in the networks debate-night coverage. His presence already raised ethical questions since Christie helped Trump prep for the debate; then, over the weekend, Christie announced that he, too, had tested positive for COVID. ABC staffers who had contact with Christie have been told to quarantine for fourteen days. An unnamed high-profile on-air personality at ABC told CNNs Oliver Darcy that Christies reckless behavior is risking the lives of ABC News employees. What was management thinking? On Tuesday, Chris Christie, the Trump adviser and former governor of New Jersey, came to the studio of ABC News, where hes a contributor, to take part in the networks debate-night coverage. His presence already raised ethical questions since Christie helped Trump prep for the debate; then, over the weekend, Christie announced that he, too, had tested positive for COVID. ABC staffers who had contact with Christie have been told to quarantine for fourteen days. An unnamed high-profile on-air personality at ABC told CNNs Oliver Darcy that Christies reckless behavior is risking the lives of ABC News employees. What was management thinking? Wall of Lies: Radio Free Brooklyn, a community radio station in New York, erected a Wall of Liesa fifty-foot-long mural in Bushwick that lists every false and misleading claim that Trump has made since taking office, as compiled by the fact-checking team at the Washington Post. Seen from a distance, [the wall] looks like chaosperhaps an apt metaphor for this presidency, Phil Buehler, who designed the wall, told the Brooklyn Daily Eagle, but when you step closer, you can read the individual lies. Other notable stories: New from CJR: QAnon shows that the age of alternative facts will not end with Trump Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Jon Allsop is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Review of Books, Foreign Policy, and The Nation, among other outlets. He writes CJRs newsletter The Media Today. Find him on Twitter @Jon_Allsop. Let me start by debunking some misconceptions I had. 1st. I thought we needed to complete a Covid-19 test the week of and bring the results with you to the airport. * This turned out to not be true. At the Pearson airport they tested us (temperature). At the airport in Cuba they sanitized our bags (before we entered) then immediately performed a mouth/nasal swab. These results were then provided to the resort a few days later. 2nd. I thought we'd have to wear masks the whole time we were at the resort (in dinning areas until we sat down to eat). *I didn't experience this during my stay, although, all of the Cuban workers wore mask and some wore gloves at all time). We did have to wear our masks the entire time from the Pearson airport right until we arrived at our rooms. 3rd. Many people were saying it was 'un-safe' as the workers weren't tested often. *All travelers had the throat/nose swab but also had their temperatures checked multiple times. After talking with some workers, they mentioned they get tested before they report for work, then they're granted entry into the Cayos and they stay at a neighboring resort (which houses all of the Cuban workers) for their 21 day work routine. During their stay their temperature is constantly tested and I believe they get tested again before they go back to the main land/families for their three weeks off. I found the experience to be very safe. Tips for travelers during this time: 1. When you arrive they'll line you up outside of the airport while they spray/disinfect your carry on bag and each traveler will clean their hands and walk in a line (socially distanced) to a room to be tested with a swab (nose / throat - both a little invasive but not as bad as I anticipated). My suggestion would be to have shorts and a tee-shirt on for landing as the noon sun is very, very hot and the airport is warm as well. 2. Strangely, they're transitioning to a whole new currency so CAD and USD are highly encouraged for tips. This was bazaar to me and I was still able to get some CUCs to leave as tips as well. My suggestion would be to bring a handful of fives to use as tips (apparently they do not like our change (loonies and toonies) from what I heard from a fellow traveler). 3. If you want to do excursions or purchase internet cards or buy anything from the gift shop or duty free you have to use an approved credit card. This fact caused many people some distress. I only used cash for tips and my credit card for everything else. My suggestion would be ensure your bank knows you're travelling out of country so they don't suspect suspicious spending. 4. The resort was very empty - and it was wonderful! There are two sides to the beach and I had the luxury of spending a few afternoons without anyone around at all! (out of 100 palapas there were maybe two or three of us on that side). On the other side there were many people but you could easily grab a beach chair / palapa anywhere at any time. It was very nice. The pools had people but we were all very spaced out. I'm not a big fan of crowds (although I love people) so it was a nice mix for me. My suggestion would be to be very safe. There were no life guards and if you're out snorkeling far away from everyone, always be aware of the depth of water you're in and exercise wisdom. 5. It seems like they're learning on the fly, so please do not expect it to be like it was before (dinning room doors open precisely at 7 A.M, 12:30 P.M, and 6:30 P.M). I learned to arrive for breakfast at 7:30, had lunch at the snack bar (open 24/7) and dinner by 6:45. Edited: 1 year ago Patna, Oct 5 : A day after the murder of RJD Dalit wing leader Shakti Malik, a two-member forensic team from Bhagalpur went to the deceased's house in Purnia for investigation. The team collected blood samples from the crime scene and took photos of the entire area including the toilet where Singh was gunned down on Sunday. The forensic team also measured the height of the wall and bamboo barricade around Malik's house. They stayed for two hours at the crime scene. One of the officers said the report will be submitted in 7 days. The forensic team was accompanied by the SHO of the Kehat police station, Sunil Kumar Mandal. The deceased's wife Khusboo Devi said that the slippers found there belonged to the attackers, who left them behind after the crime. The SHO had called the dog squad to the crime scene but the dog squad was unable to provide any lead due to water-logging in the area. The deceased's father Ashok Malik claimed that his son wanted to independently contest the Bihar Assembly elections from Raniganj constituency. Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav had demanded Rs 50 lakh for a party ticket, the father alleged. As Shakti Singh was unable to pay the money, Tejashwi had abused him. Besides Tejashwi and his brother Tej Pratap, Ashok Malik has also named Anil Kumar Sadhu, Kalo Paswan, Manoj Paswan and Sunita Devi. Purnia police has registered an FIR against them on the statement of the deceased's wife Khusboo Devi. Donald Trump is being treated with a cheap steroid that only works on severely ill coronavirus patients, sparking confusion about the true nature of the US President's condition. Over the weekend, his medical team revealed that he had been put on a course of dexamethasone, which became the first drug scientifically proven to benefit people with Covid-19 in June. But the Oxford University trial that made the discovery only found the 5 ($6.45) tablets were effective on patients with low oxygen levels who were on the verge of needing mechanical ventilation. There has been confusion about the seriousness of the president's health since he was flown by helicopter to Walter Reed Hospital near Washington with the virus on Friday. Mr Trump had a high temperature one of the tell-tale signs of the infection when he was admitted and has since been given oxygen at least once. Mr Trump's doctors have claimed he is now symptom-free and could even be discharged from hospital today, but this was contradicted by White House chief of Staff, Mark Meadows, who described the president's illness as 'very concerning'. Scientists in the UK and US have today described the decision to give Mr Trump dexamethasone as potentially 'dangerous' because it has no effect on people with mild illness and may even make their condition worse. Professor Paul Hunter, a medical and infectious diseases expert at the University of East Anglia in England, told MailOnline that giving dexamethasone to Mr Trump too early could shut down his immune system and allow the virus to cause more severe illness. He said results from trials of the steroid on Covid-19 sufferers suggested it could actually increase death in people given it prematurely. Nicholas Christakis, a physician and sociologist at Yale University, said the president was 'either sicker than they have let on' or his doctors were being 'irresponsible'. News Mr Trump is being treated with a drug reserved for the sickest of Covid-19 patients will fuel concerns about the true condition of the president, who, at 74, falls into the most at-risk age group. Steroids in high doses and over long periods of time also can lead to serious changes in mental status that include delirium, hallucinations and confusion. More commonly, the drugs can cause heartburn, anxiety, high blood pressure, muscle weakness and insomnia. One eminent British medical expert, who did not want to be named, questioned whether Mr Trump's physician - Dr Sean Conley - was properly qualified to lead a team of 20 medical staff, who have different specialties, to treat the highly infectious disease. Dr Conley trained as an osteopath, which focuses on treating problems in the the muscles and joints. They told MailOnline: 'I don't know if there is different training in the US, but in this country you wouldn't want an osteopath treating infectious diseases. You'd want a team of intensive care medics and specific infectious diseases doctors, like Boris had when he got it [Covid].' Donald Trump is being treated with a steroid that only works on severely ill coronavirus patients, sparking confusion about the true nature of his condition (pictured yesterday driving past supporters in a motorcade outside of Walter Reed Medical Center) The US President's medical team revealed the incumbent had been put on a course of dexamethasone, a cheap steroid that became the first drug scientifically proven to benefit people with Covid-19 in June One eminent British medical expert, who did not want to be named, questioned whether Mr Trump's physician - Dr Sean Conley (pictured) - was properly qualified to lead a team of 20 medical staff, who have different specialties, to treat the highly infectious disease Results from the RECOVERY trial showed mortality among people not on oxygen was 3 per cent higher in the patients who had dexamethasone compared to normal care. Although the scientists said this increase was not statistically significant Yesterday, Mr Trump posted an upbeat video praising his doctors at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, and claiming he was in good health. The president said his battle with the virus had been a 'very interesting journey' and that he had 'learned a lot about Covid'. Despite looking a little paler than normal, Mr Trump spoke energetically and did not appear to have any of the tell-tale signs of the disease, such as trouble breathing or a continuous cough. DEXAMETHASONE: THE $6 STEROID EXPERTS FEAR WAS GIVEN TO TRUMP TOO SOON WHAT IS IT? Dexamethasone was first made in 1957 and was approved for medical use in 1961. The steroid drug is a type of anti-inflammatory medicine used to treat a wide-range of conditions. It is given via an injection or once-a-day tablet and is sold under the brand names Ozurdex and Baycadron. WHAT EFFECT DOES IT HAVE ON COVID PATIENTS? An Oxford University study of the drug, known as the RECOVERY trial, found it reduced deaths by one-third among patients on mechanical ventilators and by one-fifth among patients receiving oxygen. The RECOVERY trial saw a total of 2,104 patients randomised to receive 6mg of dexamethasone once a day, either by mouth or by intravenous injection for 10 days. Their outcomes were compared with 4,321 patients given standard care alone, which involves painkillers and, in some cases, antibiotics. For patients on ventilators, the drug cut the risk of death from 40 per cent to 28 per cent. In patients who required oxygen, the risk was reduced from a quarter to a fifth. HOW DOES IT STOP COVID? The steroid reduces inflammation in the lungs triggered by an overreaction by the immune system. It does this by suppressing the immune system and preventing it from going into overdrive - which triggers inflammation. One in 10 symptomatic Covid-19 patients are thought to suffer from the nasty symptom, known as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS causes the immune system to become overactive and attack healthy cells in the lungs. This makes breathing difficult and the body eventually struggles to get enough oxygen to vital organs. WHAT ARE THE RISKS/SIDE EFFECTS? Dexamethasone is known to cause a number of mild to moderate side effects, including vomiting, heartburn, anxiety, high blood pressure, muscle weakness and insomnia. Steroids in high doses and over long periods of time also can lead to serious changes in mental status that include delirium, hallucinations and confusion. Results from the RECOVERY trial showed mortality among people not receiving oxygen was 3 per cent higher in patients who had dexamethasone compared to normal care. Although the scientists said this increase was not statistically significant. WHAT ELSE DOES IT TREAT? The steroid is also used to treat conditions that cause inflammation, conditions related to immune system activity, and hormone deficiency. These include: allergic reactions rheumatoid arthritis psoriasis lupus eczema flare-ups of intestinal disease, such as ulcerative colitis multiple sclerosis pre-treatment for chemotherapy to reduce inflammation and side effects from cancer medications adrenal insufficiency (a condition where the adrenal glands dont produce enough hormones) Advertisement Trump is given experimental antibodies from mice that are NOT available to the public, remdesivir which is in short supply across globe and Vitamin D As well as dexamethasone, Mr Trump has been given an experimental coronavirus antibody cocktail not available to the public as part of his treatment for coronavirus. The cocktail, developed by US drug maker Regeneron, is also starting to be used in recovery trials in the UK and was described as 'very positive and very potent' by an Oxford professor this morning. The president has been taking other treatments including remdesivir, zinc, vitamin D, famotidine, melatonin and aspirin. However, it is the cocktail which experts hope will be the key to his recovery, with Regeneron's latest data from the ongoing trials showing the drug drove down the viral loads of patients who were not hospitalised, and cut their recovery times by nearly half. It contains an antibody made by the company from mice, and another isolated from a recovered Covid-19 patient - each of which may help to neutralise coronavirus. But it's very much an experimental treatment, and the data announced earlier this week are the first published from the trial. Two patients treated with the antibody cocktail had 'adverse events' - undesirable side effects. One of those was a 'serious' adverse event, but Regeneron did not reveal details of what happened to the patient, who received a low dose of the drug. Dr Sean Conley, Trump's physician, wrote in a White House memo yesterday: 'Following PCR-confirmation of the President's diagnosis, as a precautionary measure, he received a single 8 gram dose of Regneron's polyclonal antibody cocktail.' Peter Horby, professor of emerging diseases at Oxford University, told BBC Radio Four's Today programme that the drug was safe and that just one treatment could provide protection for up to six weeks, before then potentially being topped up again. He said: 'It's an artificial antibody, a cocktail of two antibodies, designed so it binds strongly to a protein on the surface of the virus. 'That helps prevent the virus from attaching to cells, entering the cells and replicating, and it also helps our own immune system to attack and kill the virus. 'This class of drugs have been around for quite a while now and they're extensively used in inflammatory conditions and cancers and they're pretty safe and well understood. 'The technology is something we have confidence in. This particular drug has probably been given to four or five hundred mild or severe patients in different trials and so far there have been no worrying safety signals. 'It's very promising, it's very potent. In the laboratory in cell cultures it has a very strong effect against the virus and there have been some studies in artificially infected animals where it also shows benefits, so of the drugs that are available it's one of the most promising. 'We have it in the recovery trial in the UK, we started that over the last weekend and it's available in about three hospitals in the north. We're hoping to roll it out next week to another 30 to 40 hospitals. 'It's anti-viral so it will work in patients in whom the virus is still replicating, so it could be used at any stage of the disease and for any age group. 'There's a phenomenon where the response to vaccines is poorer as you get older, whereas these class of drugs have a very long half-life, and you can have just one treatment which can provide protection for a month or longer, so in that sense they're quite attractive for the older population. 'One dose will give you prolonged protection if it works. It would do you for a month to six weeks because the antibodies have quite a long life in the body before they're removed. 'It won't be as long as a vaccine but it would give you some protection for quite a period. It could be [topped up every six weeks].' Advertisement Dr Conley told reporters yesterday that Mr Trump could be discharged from hospital later today and may be allowed to continue his treatment back at the White House. But Mr Christakis said he would be 'mystified' if the president was out of hospital on Monday, adding: 'It doesn't fit all the other facts of his condition, as disclosed. And it sets up bad optics or bad medical care.' The Yale expert continued: 'If he is not discharged, it will signal that he is not doing as well as hoped or has had a reversal of his claimed trajectory. Of course [the] White House has medical facilities, but a return to hospital after discharge, if required soon, would be bad medicine and bad politics.' Mr Trump was suffering from a high fever on Friday when he was first admitted, doctors said at the time, and twice his oxygen saturation levels dropped to 93 per cent over the weekend - the usual range being 95 to 100 per cent. Some medics consider patients to have severe Covid-19 if their oxygen levels drop below 94 per cent, but others put the threshold at 90. Physicians said the incumbent was administered oxygen at the White House on Friday and revealed he was put on a course of dexamethasone. Experts have questioned whether they had given him dexamethasone too quickly, or whether the president was far sicker than has been publicly acknowledged. Mr Christakis said on Twitter: 'Either he is sicker than they have let on and clearly warrants dexamethasone, or he's not so sick, and therefore putting him on dexamethasone is irresponsible. 'I think [Mr Trump] is probably sicker (and for longer) than they are telling us. And if, as a 74 year old obese man, he has gotten that sick this fast, there is a high chance that he will continue to worsen. He could be in ICU within 48 hrs. It is hard to say given lack of transparency.' Professor Peter Openshaw, an expert in experimental medicine at Imperial College London and a member of the UK Government's Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, described the decision to put Trump on dexamethasone as 'unusual', if his illness is as mild as the president's doctors claim. He told the Guardian: 'It's normally reserved for people who have had symptoms for a week or more and who are going into respiratory failure. It would be unusual to be starting steroids with a relatively short duration of illness.' Dr Thomas McGinn, the physician-in-chief at Northwell Health, the largest health care provider in New York State, told the NY Times: 'The dexamethasone is the most mystifying of the drugs we're seeing him being given at this point. 'It raises the question: Is he sicker than we're hearing, or are they being overly aggressive because he is the president, in a way that could be potentially harmful?' The World Health Organization (WHO) says dexamethasone should only be given to patients with 'severe and critical Covid-19' - guidance which appears to be open to interpretation. The National Institutes of Health goes one step further, specifying that the drug is only for people who require a mechanical ventilator to help them breathe, or who need oxygen support. An Oxford University study of dexamethasone found the cheap steroid only helped those who had been sick for more than a week. Mr Trump is thought to have only picked up the virus late last week. The RECOVERY trial, which involved 6,000 Covid-19 patients, found the steroid reduced the risk of death by one-third among patients on mechanical ventilators and by one-fifth among patients receiving oxygen. The discovery saw the UK Government immediately approve the steroid to be available on the NHS the next day. But the drug given as either an injection or once-a-day tablet on the NHS had no benefit for people who were hospitalised with the virus but did not require oxygen. Professor Hunter said there was some evidence it may increase deaths in people who take it too early, although researchers were not able to prove it beyond doubt. Professor Hunter told MailOnline: 'It's not just irresponsible to give dexamethasone too early, it's dangerous. 'I do not know what other factors may have effected the decision to use dexamethasone if it was indeed used, but clearly I do not have access to special knowledge about the presidents current health status.' The East Anglia University expert added: 'Steroids like dexamethasone suppress your immune system. For viruses like Covid-19, this has a good side and a bad side. 'The damage and deaths in most patients is not because of the virus itself, it's because of the immune system fighting the virus. 'For some people the immune system does not go into overdrive and manages to beat the virus. 'But in other, the immune system goes absolutely crazy, which causes deadly blood clots to form everywhere. It's only these people who should be given steroids. 'If you give steroids too early, you suppress the immune system at the point it might be doing more harm than good.' Professor Hunter's concerns about dexamethasone stem from results of the RECOVERY trial, which found mortality rates among patients not receiving oxygen was 3 per cent higher in the patients who had dexamethasone compared to normal care. The steroid prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation, a nasty Covid-19 complication that makes breathing difficult. In seriously unwell patients, the lungs become so inflamed they struggle to work. But it comes with a host of side effects, including vomiting, heartburn, anxiety, high blood pressure, muscle weakness and insomnia - all of which could be made worse in older, vulnerable patients with weakened immune systems. Dexamethasone, first created in the 1950s, is usually given to treat ulcerative colitis, arthritis and some types of cancer. It is already licensed and proven to be safe, meaning it can be used in human patients immediately, and is a generic drug, meaning it can be manufactured cheaply and en masse by companies all over the world. Scientists said that up to 5,000 lives could have been saved in the UK if they had known about the effectiveness of the drug at the start of the pandemic. Mr Trump's physician, Dr Sean Conley, told reporters outside the Walter Reed Medical Center in Maryland on Sunday that the president could be discharged from hospital as soon as Monday as he continues to recover from coronavirus. Dr Conley said: 'Thursday night into Friday morning when I left the bedside, the president was doing well, with only mild symptoms and his oxygen was in the high 90s. 'Late on Friday morning when I returned to the bedside, the president had a high fever and his oxygen levels were transiently dipping below 94 per cent. 'Given these two developments, I was concerned about rapid progression of the illness. I suggested we try some supplemental oxygen, to see how he'd respond. 'He was fairly adamant he didn't need it. He was not short of breath, he was just tired and he had the fever - that was about it.' Dr Conley was also quizzed on why on Saturday he refused to admit the president had been given supplemental oxygen at the White House on Friday, when his chief of staff Mark Meadows told reporters medics were 'very concerned' about his vital signs before he arrived at Walter Reed. He said he was 'trying to reflect the upbeat attitude of the team' and 'didn't want to give any information that might steer the course of illness in another direction'. Dr Conley added that 'in doing so, [it] came off like we were trying to hide something, which wasn't necessarily true'. Former UK US ambassador Sir Christopher Meyer today accused the White House of giving 'conflicting messages' about Mr Trump's health. The RECOVERY trial saw a total of 2,104 patients randomised to receive 6mg of dexamethasone once a day, either by mouth or by intravenous injection for 10 days. Their outcomes were compared with 4,321 patients given standard care alone, which involves painkillers and, in some cases, antibiotics. For patients on ventilators, the drug cut the risk of death from 40 per cent to 28 per cent. In patients who required oxygen, the risk was reduced from a quarter to a fifth. Professor Martin Landray, lead researcher, said dexamethasone could have saved up to 5,000 lives if it was used throughout the UK's crisis. He said: 'If you were to design a drug that treats coronavirus, this would be exactly how you'd hope it works.' Google launches `Google News Showcase'; to pay publishers for content Alphabet's Google on Thursday unveiled a new product called `Google News Showcase, with an investment of $1 billion, under which it plans to pay publishers globally for their news over the next three years. Announcing this, Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai said Google will pay publishers to create and curate high-quality content for Google News Showcase. This differentiated online news experience leverages swipeable cards called story panels. These panels give participating publishers the ability to package the stories that appear within Googles news products, providing deeper storytelling and more context through features like timelines, bullets, and related articles. Other components like video, audio, and daily briefings will come next, Google stated in a release. CEO Sundar Pichai said the new product called Google News Showcase will launch first in Germany, where it has signed up German newspapers including Der Spiegel, Stern, Die Zeit, and in Brazil with Folha de S.Paulo, Band and Infobae. It will be rolled out in Belgium, India, the Netherlands and other countries. Reports said about 200 publishers in Argentina, Australia, Britain, Brazil, Canada and Germany have signed up to the product. "This financial commitment - our biggest to date - will pay publishers to create and curate high-quality content for a different kind of online news experience," Pichai said in a blog post. Google, facing resistance from media groups over blocking revenues due to them, had in June announced plans to pay for content. It is facing legal action in Australia, where the court had given publishers and Google time to settle mutually. Australia wants to force Google and Facebook to share advertising revenue with local media groups. However, Google on Sunday said Australias News Media Bargaining Code is highly unusual, largely untested and one-sided arbitration system, suggesting the setup wont allow for fair negotiations. Last week, Google proposed changes to help resolve the challenges and on Sunday said the Australian code is highly unusual, largely untested, one-sided arbitration system that would determine commercial arrangements between Google and news companies. We dont oppose a code governing the relationship between news businesses and digital platforms but right now the way the law is drafted isnt fair or workable, Mel Silva, vice president of Google Australia and New Zealand, wrote in a blog post. Google parent Alphabet reported a net profit of $34.3 billion on revenue of almost $162 billion last year. The product, which allows publishers to pick and present their stories, will launch on Google News on Android devices and eventually on Apple devices. "This approach is distinct from our other news products because it leans on the editorial choices individual publishers make about which stories to show readers and how to present them," Pichai said. German publisher the Spiegel Group has welcomed the project. "With News Showcase and the new integration of editorial content like from Spiegel, Google shows that they are serious about supporting quality journalism in Germany. We are happy to be part of it from the start," said Stefan Ottlitz, managing director of the Spiegel Group. The European Publishers Council (EPC), whose members include News UK, the Guardian, Pearson, the New York Times and Schibsted, however, said it is a ploy to skirt regulations. "By launching a product, they (Google) can dictate terms and conditions, undermine legislation designed to create conditions for a fair negotiation, while claiming they are helping to fund news production," said EPC executive director Angela Mills Wade. The product builds on a licensing deal with media groups in Australia, Brazil and Germany in June, which also drew a lukewarm response from the EPC. Google is negotiating with French publishers, among its most vocal critics, while Australia wants to force it and Facebook to share advertising revenue with local media groups. Throughout the United States, school reopenings have been a complete disaster. More than 30 K-12 educators have died since schools began reopening in late July, and at least 39,000 students and school employees have been infected across the country. On October 1, one day after her 58th birthday, first grade bilingual teacher Olga Quiroga died after battling COVID-19. Quiroda taught at Funston Elementary and had worked in the Chicago Public School District (CPS) for over 30 years. Although CPS began the school year fully online for most students, Quiroga became infected after being forced to make a number of trips to her school for required pre-service workdays, including a back-to-school event where she met her students parents and handed out supplies for the upcoming academic year. While sick at home, Quiroga continued to teach her students virtually as the school year began. After a week of worsening symptoms while teaching virtually, she was taken by her daughter to the emergency room and never left the hospital. There have now been nine reported deaths of CPS workers since the onset of the pandemic. Teachers protest outside Franklin D. Roosevelt High School in New York City, October 2, 2020. (AP Photo/John Minchillo) Despite the surge in infections and deaths among educators across the country, major school districts that have started online are now pushing for the full resumption of in-person learning, which will vastly accelerate the spread of the pandemic. In New York City, mass school reopenings combined with the easing of social distancing restrictions in recent weeks have led to a rapid rise in infections across the city. At least 145 teachers and 38 students have tested positive for COVID-19, and the average infection rate throughout the city has nearly doubled in the past week, from one to 1.75 percent in the past week. On Sunday, Democratic Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that all non-essential businesses, as well as public and private schools, will close this Wednesday, October 7, in neighborhoods with a three percent infection rate for seven consecutive days. The closures will impact roughly half a million people across nine zip codes and encompass parts of at least 20 neighborhoods within the city, with roughly 100 public and 200 non-public schools closing in the largest school district in the country. With well-grounded fears that the school openings are leading to a resurgence of the virus in the city, which has already lost 25,000 people to the deadly contagion, de Blasio is collaborating with the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) to try to get ahead of the growing demands for the complete shutdown of the district. The closure of the 1.1-million-student school district would be a major blow to back-to-school and back-to-work campaign spearheaded by the Trump administration with the support on the state and local level by Democrats like de Blasio and Governor Andrew Cuomo. The number of public schools being closed is less than six percent of the citys 1,722 public schools. The closures, moreover, are set to take effect Wednesday, not today, supposedly to allow students to ensure they have devices and receive instruction from teachers for remote learning on Monday and Tuesday. Without any scientific evidence, de Blasio insisted, We do not see a nexus to the public schools. In nearby Long Island, New Yorkwith 124 public school districts and 420,000 studentsthere is growing denunciations of the New York State Education Department (NYSED) for withholding information about the spread of infections. One teacher told the WSWS, My doctor advised me not to return for in-person classes because I am at high risk. Shortly after the school year began, my district told me I could either physically return, even though the students I was assigned are all remote or take medical leave for the academic year. I know dozens of other teachers in the same situation. They try to justify forcing us back for in-person classes by saying that its about whats best for the students. Thats a lie. There have already been positive cases among students and the response has been for teachers and students to just return the next day as if nothing happened. I support building rank-and-file safety committees. The unions are not only not doing anything to protect us, most teachers dont even trust them because theyve sold us out for so many years. We feel vulnerable because they keep us isolated. I think teachers need new organizations to defend our common interests. In Florida, Miami-Dade County Public School began in-person instruction today for pre-K through first grade, as well as students with disabilities. The school board made a last-minute decision last Tuesday to reopen schools after Floridas right-wing Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran demanded that the district reopen on October 5 or face up to $300 million in funding cuts. Similar to New York City and other districts, the rest of the student population will be phased in over the coming weeks. Similarly, Broward County Schools in Tallahassee and other districts will also reopen this week under a similar model. According to the Florida Department of Health, a total of 4,689 COVID-19 cases have been tied to the reopening of Floridas K-12 and post-secondary schools since September 6. Just this past week, over 1,300 students and staff have been quarantined in Central Florida public schools and Pinellas County Public Schools. Nevertheless, Governor Ron DeSantis stated Friday that closing schools in the spring might have been one of the nations biggest public health mistakes. In Wisconsin, a major epicenter of the virus in the US, the death of two Wisconsin teachers in recent weeks has provoked enormous opposition among educators and parents to school reopenings. In response, teachers unions in Racine, Madison, Milwaukee, Kenosha and Green Bay have appealed to the Department of Health Services to prohibit in-person schooling. At the same time, the unions have made it clear they will take no action if their appeal is predictably rejected. Ohio teachers in Gahanna-Jefferson Public School District voted Thursday to strike on October 13 in opposition to lack of safety measures and instructional models to be implemented as schools reopen for in-person instruction. The district plans to bring back at least half of its student population this month and communicated to parents and the community that students who remain home will watch a live stream of the in-person class. Teachers argue that the proposed model for distance learning will compromise students learning and impose additional workload on teachers who will be responsible for teaching students both in-person and online. In Washington, DC, thirteen schools within District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) will open face-to-face in the coming weeks, despite opposition from teachers who have expressed deep concerns over in-person learning. The district and city administration have responded by saying in-person instruction is voluntary, while DC mayor Muriel Bowser has called for a full reopening of schools by November. DCPS teachers protested outside Bowsers home on Saturday, calling for a halt to the reopening plans. In nearby Fairfax, Virginia, over 650 teachers in the district have been compelled to return for in-person instruction. Last week, teachers were given 48 hours to decide if they will return to their classrooms for face-to-face instruction starting today. Teachers and support staff were provided four choices: return in-person; submit an American with Disabilities Act request, if they are high-risk; request an unpaid leave of absence; or resign or retire. The pandemic is being used to purge older, higher-paid teachers from the profession, sharply increase workloads for teachers forced to provide in-person and remote instruction simultaneously, and prepare an historic program of austerity, whether Trump or Biden is in the White House. Last week, Detroit Federation of Teachers President Terrence Martin repeatedly said, We are in a pandemic to bully teachers into accepting a contract which will keep teachers wages roughly the same as they were in 1985 and to replace step increases for new hires, based on seniority, with merit pay schemes tied to testing and teacher evaluations. From Detroit, to New York City, to California and across the county, the unions are playing an absolutely criminal role in aiding this deadly policy, promoting the fraud that schools can be reopened safely while the pandemic spirals out of control. Teachers and school workers must break from the stranglehold of the unions and build their own, independent rank-and-file safety committees in order to fight for their lives. There is mass opposition to the opening of schools and a growing sentiment for broad-based struggle to halt the spread of the pandemic. Rank-and-file safety committees have already been established in New York City, Los Angeles, Detroit, Texas, and Florida. We urge all teachers and workers to join the Educators Rank-and-File Safety Committee network, and join or build a safety committee in your area . A Georgia company is planning to invest $9.5 million to open a medical manufacturing center in Dothan, creating 70 jobs in the area, Gov. Kay Ivey announced Monday. Global Resources International, a contract manufacturer, said a new medical manufacturing subsidiary -- Advanced Product Solutions -- would oversee the center manufacture engineered fabrics, personal protective equipment and injection molded medical products in the United States. The Dothan center would also expand those capabilities to include injection molding of non-medical products and the production of absorbent underpads for the human and animal health markets. We welcome the decision by Global Resources International to base its innovative new manufacturing center for PPE and other products in southeast Alabama, Ivey said in a statement. This is a great news for Dothan because it will create good jobs and provide a solid economic boost for the entire area. Eastern Technologies Inc., an Ashford-based GRI subsidiary that makes protective gear for nuclear power, chemicals and defense workers, would oversee Advanced Product Solutions, the governors office said. We are looking forward to this enhancement of our U.S.-based manufacturing to the greater Dothan area, and were looking forward to the future growth, said Mark Fellows, vice president of ETI and Advanced Product Solutions. Besides the United States, GRI has manufacturing operations in the Dominican Republic, China, India and Vietnam. The GRI family of companies is a global leader in the development of high-performance protective equipment and technologies to keep workers safe in extreme environments, said Greg Canfield, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. Were thrilled that this globally focused company has selected Dothan as the home of its newest manufacturing venture and know it will find success there. In a joint statement, Mayor Mark Saliba, City of Dothan and Houston County Chairman Mark Culver said: We are extremely appreciative of the GRI familys investment in our area. This world-class company will strengthen the United States' position on manufacturing essential personal protection and medical equipment. We appreciate the tremendous support from Governor Kay Ivey and her state team and our local team in supporting this exciting project. The family-friendly comedy The Brady Bunch is still considered one of televisions most legendary sitcoms. Running from 1969 to 1974, the series highlighted one of Americas first blended families and allowed viewers to witness the six Brady kids grow through adolescence. Maureen McCormick and Barry Williams portrayed the shows two oldest siblings, Marcia and Greg Brady. Despite playing brother and sister onscreen, the two shared a strong attraction that materialized into something more than just co-stars. Maureen McCormick and Barry Williams of The Brady Bunch | Walt Disney Television via Getty Images Photo Archives/Walt Disney Television via Getty Images Maureen McCormick references a special storyline The Brady Bunch cast and crew headed to Hawaii to film the three-part Season 4 premiere. Recalling the landmark excursion, McCormick posted a nostalgic photo of herself with Williams from their time on location to wish him a happy birthday with a Hawaiian flair. Aloha and Happy Happy Birthday Barry Williams! she tweeted on Sept. 30. Hau oli La Hanau! You are my Ohana and I feel so blessed by your friendship! Mahalo and Aloha Nui Loa @MrBarryWilliams. McCormicks use of Hawaiian phrases added to the flavor of the post, with Hau oli La Hanau meaning Happy birthday, and Ohana translating as Family. The Brady Bunch alum signed off with Mahalo (Thank you) and Aloha Nui Loa (All my love). Aloha and Happy Happy Birthday Barry Williams! Hau oli La Hanau! You are my Ohana and I feel so blessed by your friendship! Mahalo and Aloha Nui Loa@MrBarryWilliams pic.twitter.com/BWvam9hkG8 Maureen McCormick (@MoMcCormick7) September 30, 2020 RELATED: Brady Bunch Star Eve Plumb Says the Marcia Marcia Marcia Mantra Became Famous Because of This SNL Alum Hawaii happens to be a momentous place for the co-stars, where McCormick revealed in her 2008 memoir that the two shared their first kiss in the exotic locale. The Brady Bunch Hawaiian backdrop makes for romance With Williams and McCormick both in their teenage years, the two had enjoyed a flirtation for several seasons on the show. Once headed to Hawaii, McCormick knew there was a chance for something more in such an idyllic setting. The surroundings took my breath away, she wrote of the island in her book Heres the Story: Surviving Marcia Brady and Finding My True Voice. I never stayed anywhere as beautiful. And talk about romantic! There was the air the water and Barrys blue eyes. The Brady Bunch star revealed her hopes for romance began from the moment the cast arrived in Hawaii. As soon as I stepped off the plane, I started to think about him more intensely, in the way I had fantasized for a long time, McCormick wrote. We had spent the past three and a half years staving off the desire of a mutual attraction despite the intimacy of working closely with each other every day. Barry Williams and Maureen McCormick share a special moment on the beach McCormick went on to describe venturing out to the beach with Williams, where they finally shared their first kiss. It was a picture-perfect Hawaiian moment, she revealed. As we neared our hotel, we turned toward each other, and kissed. We couldnt hold back any longer. It was our first kiss, and it was long, passionate and deep. It was wonderful, too. At one point, McCormick had second thoughts about her romantic interlude with Williams due to his being her onscreen sibling. RELATED: The Brady Bunch Star Christopher Knight Reveals His Most Embarrassing Episode: It Was Traumatic As we continued to kiss, the Brady Bunch star revealed, a part of me a tiny part, admittedly said to myself, Oh my God! Im kissing my brother. What am I doing?' Despite a momentary hesitation, McCormick quickly recovered. I didnt care, she confessed. I knew exactly what I was doing. Though the two had what the actor refers to as only an on-again, off-again game, McCormick and Williams clearly maintained a solid friendship spanning over 50 years. Burma Rakhine State IDPs Exceed 36,000 Since August: Myanmar NGO Rathedaung residents taking shelter at a monastery in Sittwe. / Khaing Yoe Hla / The Irrawaddy Sittwe, Rakhine State More than 36,000 people have been displaced by fighting since August in Rakhine State, which has seen the second-largest number of COVID-19 cases after Yangon Region, according to the Rakhine Ethnic Congress (REC). They fled because their villages were set ablaze, civilians were killed or injured in shelling along the Kaladan River and [because the military] raided villages. This is why the number of displaced people has increased, said U Zaw Zaw Tun, adding that Kyauktaw, Rathedaung and Buthidaung townships have been the worst affected. According to the REC, there were 190,700 internally displaced people (IDPs) in Rakhine in July. The second wave of COVID-19 broke out in the second week of August in Rakhine, and since then over 36,000 more civilians were displaced by fresh clashes between Myanmars military and the Arakan Army (AA), with the number reaching 226,804 in late September. U Zaw Tun asked the military to stop fighting and to consider residents who are struggling to make ends meet due to the pandemic. The government issued stay-at-home orders across Rakhine State in response to a spike in COVID-19 cases but ongoing fighting is forcing people from their homes on a daily basis, according to the REC. On Sept. 17, a civilian was killed and two were injured when an artillery shell landed in Shwe Laung Tin village in Rathedaung Township. Following the incident, villagers fled from their homes to Sittwe and other townships. We do want to stay at home but we cant. Though we are afraid of coronavirus, we are also afraid that artillery shells might fall, said Shwe Laung Tin villager Daw Khin Khin Than, who is taking shelter at a monastery in Sittwe. Meanwhile, COVID-19 travel restrictions have made it difficult for humanitarian and civil society organizations to provide IDP relief supplies. With as many as 1,000 people in a camp, IDPs are facing high risks of coronavirus infection. Lower House lawmaker U Oo Tun Win of Kyauktaw Township said: People are advised to stay at home, to wear masks if they go out and keep six feet apart. But in some IDP camps, where entire villages are taking shelter, it is difficult for IDPs to follow those measures. He urged both sides to stop fighting during the COVID-19 outbreak. While people are in trouble, I want all sides to show sympathy for the people. They should give priority to the people during the COVID-19 outbreak, he added. The military and AA have been fighting in northern Rakhine since November 2018. The fighting has been the heaviest in terms of civilian deaths, injuries and property damage since 2010 when democracy began to be introduced in Myanmar. Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko You may also like these stories: Myanmar Military Offers More COVID-19 Quarantine Beds to Civilians Myanmar IDP Killed While Fetching Rice in Chin State World Faces Intense Heat Wave Amid Continued Coronavirus Fears Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki, left, speaks during a press briefing at Sejong Government Complex, Monday. Yonhap Oil prices skyrocketed on Monday morning as U.S. President Donald Trumps health appears to have improved after testing positive for the coronavirus on Thursday evening. At 11:06 a.m. EDT, the price of the WTI benchmark had risen by 6.15% to $39.33. While the gains are substantial for the day, they are still under the $40 per barrel mark, and still under where prices were just a week ago, as both major benchmarks stumbled on Friday as reports came in that President Trump had tested positive. But by Monday, White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows suggested that the President was improving, and was ready to return to work as usual. Meadows also indicated that President Trump could return to the White House later today. The U.S. President also took a few moments out of his hospital sequestration on Sunday to appear in a motorcade to wave to his supporters. While Trump took criticism for his brash move on Sunday, his appearance instilled confidence in the markets. The Brent crude benchmark was trading up 5.65%, at $41.49. Prices were also supported by strike action in Norway that shut down six offshore oil and gas fields on Monday, including four of Equinors. More oil and gas field shutdowns are possible in Norway as the strike continues to escalate over pay. The strike, while painful for Norway, is a welcomed addition to the oil markets who are grappling with low demand and increasing supply out of Libya. Production has ramped up in Libya to almost double following a lifting of the months-long blockade. In Libya, production is now thought to be near 300,000 bpd. The strike in Norway is estimated to have taken offline 330,000 bpd, more than offsetting any gains in Libya. By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Members of the Bellows Falls, Vt., and North Walpole, N.H., Fire Departments hold an active fire training and mayday rescue at an abandoned building on Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2022. The fire was set with Christmas trees that the Bellows Falls Fire Department collected earlier in the year. New Delhi: The foreign ministers of the Quad--India, Japan, US and Australia will meet on Tuesday in Japan's capital Tokyo to "collectively affirm the importance of maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific". The meeting is scheduled to take place at 5 pm (local time) or 1.30 pm (IST) to discuss regional issues. The foreign ministers of all four Quad countries--External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi will be present for the face to face meeting, a first amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This is the second such Quad foreign ministers meet. In 2019, all the foreign ministers of Quad countries met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a release said, "Foreign Ministers shall discuss the post-COVID international order and the need for a coordinated response to the various challenges emerging from the pandemic." The release added, four ministers, will also "discuss regional issues and collectively affirm the importance of maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific". On the sidelines of the meet, EAM Jaishankar will also have bilaterals with his Quad counterparts, including the US. This happens even as India and the US are getting ready for 2+2 foreign and defence ministers meeting that will happen later in October. This will be first such major diplomatic engagement of the new Japanese Prime minister Yoshihide Suga. The grouping, whose focus is on "free and open" Indo Pacific is viewed suspiciously by China. A Chinese takeaway owner from west Wales has landed a 10,000 publishing deal after winning Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan's book competition. Julie Ma told how she was convinced her book Happy Families would be rejected when she entered the Search For A Bestseller competition. But Madeley called her work 'absolutely, bloody great' and praised her story based on a takeaway and the lives of its customers. Ma will receive a publishing deal worth at least 10,000, with her work published by Welbeck in February 2021. Born and raised in Carmarthen, Ma's grandfather arrived in Wales from China in the 1920s. Her parents set up a Chinese takeaway in the 1970s and she took over the business with her brother in 2008. Julie Ma (pictured) won the Search For A Bestseller prize for her book Happy Families, which Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan called 'absolutely, bloody great' Her love of reading and writing emerged from school and a local bookshop called Derrick Williams. Ma said: 'I feel I should be pinched to wake me up. 'As most writers starting out know, it's worth building up a thick skin to deal with all of the rejections, so when I entered, I just expected to add another layer to my hide. 'But secretly, I was hoping Richard and Judy would enjoy hearing about the folk in the Chinese takeaway and the quirky town they live in. And they did.' Madeley said: 'We thought Happy Families was great - absolutely, bloody great. It's a wonderful story, and she's such a talented, funny writer. 'We think this has real appeal to a wide audience and are thrilled to choose it as the winner. Julie Ma is a rare find.' The prize for the book competition run by Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan (pictured) will receive a 10,000 publishing deal, and have her work published by Welbeck in February 2021 Jon Elek, fiction publisher for Welbeck Publishing Group, said: 'From its waggish first page to its perfect ending, Happy Families was the bright shining star among the 900 submissions we received for the competition. 'Julie Ma's story of three generations of a Chinese immigrant family in rural Wales was a joy to read and we look forward to publishing it next year. 'It is sad, funny, moving and draws you into the lives of these fantastic characters who are all involved in one way or another with the running of a Chinese takeaway in a small town. 'To me, it had the charm of The Rosie Project, the warmth of The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry and the magic of Gavin And Stacey.' The 2020 Richard and Judy Search For A Bestseller competition, supported by WHSmith, opened for submissions in July. Unpublished writers were asked to submit an original fiction manuscript aimed at adults. Previous winners include Caz Frear with Sweet Little Lies, Tracy Rees with Amy Snow and Claire Gradidge with The Unexpected Return of Josephine Fox. SBS managing director James Taylor rejected an offer from his counterpart at the ABC, David Anderson, to share offices and explore other merged services such as travel in a terse email exchange about how the two government-funded broadcasters could save money. The ABC and SBS have their own budgets and operate as separate organisations but are under pressure to consider sharing back-office and support services to reduce costs. For years there have been suggestions the ABC should subsume SBS to save money. SBS has long resisted any full-scale merger with the ABC. 'Not feasible or desirable': SBS boss James Taylor has rejected a request to share offices with the ABC. Credit:Steven Siewert A letter attached to an email sent to Mr Taylor by Mr Anderson on April 21, obtained by The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age under Freedom of Information laws, suggested the two national broadcasters revisit cost-saving measures such as creating an online video service (instead of running ABC iview and SBS On Demand separately) or moving into the national broadcaster's Ultimo premises in Sydney. Such a move would allow certain ABC and SBS resources to merge together. Mr Anderson, who sent the letter before unveiling his five-year plan in June, said sharing office space would allow the two broadcasters to save money on on-site security and cleaners and share access to broadcast vans. A presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu, says President Muhammadu Buhari is not moved by unpatriotic calls for the restructuring of the nation. Mr Shehu in a statement on Sunday said the president is at the moment concerned with the wellbeing of the nation and its people. The statement was a reaction to the call by some high profile Nigerians including the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Enoch Adeboye, who on Saturday said only an urgent restructuring would save Nigeria from breaking up. Mr Adeboye echoed the calls of others like the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi; former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke; and a former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili; at the 60th Independence Day Celebration Symposium organised by RCCG and the Nehemiah Leadership Institute. Why cant we have a system of government that will create what I will call the United States of Nigeria? Let me explain. We all know that we must restructure. It is either we restructure or we break up. You dont have to be a prophet to know that. That is certain restructure or we break up, the cleric was quoted by various newspapers. But in reaction to this, the presidency said the latest calls for restructuring are recurring threats to the corporate existence of the country with factions giving specific timelines for the President to do one thing or another or else, in their language, the nation will break up. He warned against such unpatriotic outbursts, saying Mr Buharis administration will not succumb to threats and take any decision out of pressure at a time when the nations full attention is needed to deal with the security challenges facing it at a time of the COVID-19 health crisis. This administration will not take any decision against the interests of 200 million Nigerians, who are the Presidents first responsibility under the constitution, out of fear or threats especially in this hour of a health crisis. The President as an elected leader under this constitution will continue to work with patriotic Nigerians, through and in line with the parliamentary processes to finding solutions to structural and other impediments to the growth and wellbeing of the nation and its people, the statement read. Also contributing to the debate, the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum, Kayode Fayemi, said restructuring will come after due process has been followed. Speaking with journalists in Lagos on Sunday, the NGF chairman said concrete steps had been made to make proposals to the National Assembly. He stressed that federalism is the answer to most of the challenges Nigeria is facing as a nation. Alcamo : , Oct 5 (IANS) Peter Sagan remains without a win in 15 months after the Bora-Hansgrohe rider was beaten by Diego Ulissi (UAE Team Emirates) in an uphill sprint finish in Stage 2 of the Giro d'Italia. Ulissi's stage win and bonus seconds see him move into the race top ten, while Ineos' Filippo Ganna retains the pink jersey for another day. The profile of the stage made this a gilt-edged opportunity for the puncheurs and Sagan and Ulissi ensured the race, being telecast on Eurosport and Eurosport HD, played out to the script. In third place was Danish rider Mikkel Honore (Deceuninck-Quick-Step), the last of a trio who surged clear of the chasing pack on the final uphill kilometer. Michael Matthews (Team Sunweb) couldn't stay with the winning three, settling in the end for fourth place, the best of the second group to cross the line. In the battle for the ciclamino jersey, it's 1-0 Sagan. Geraint Thomas and Simon Yates both enjoyed uneventful days in the saddle, but Astana suffered another setback as Aleksandr Vlasov abandoned the race. They are now down to six riders after just two stages. Rick Zabel ceded the blue climber's jersey. The ciclamino will pass to Ulissi, while both the pink and white jerseys will belong by rights to Ganna, with Joao Almeida (Deceuninck-Quick-Step) wearing the latter in his stead. A spirited breakaway led by Thomas De Gendt lasted until the 10km to go kite, with the Belgian hoovering up maximum points at both intermediate sprints and the day's first king of the mountain point. Washington: US President Donald Trump has returned to the White House after leaving the hospital where he was being treated for coronavirus, urging Americans not to be afraid of COVID-19 or let it dominate their lives. Trump's return to the White House came three days after he was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre in Maryland. "Feeling really good": Back at the White House with a case of coronavirus but no mask, US President Donald Trump gives the thumbs up. Credit:AP Trump walked out of the front doors of the hospital, giving a thumbs up and punching the air in a gesture of triumph as he walked down the stairs. He appeared to be walking without difficulty as he boarded Marine One, the presidential helicopter, to fly back to the White House. After landing at the White House, he walked up the stairs and took off his mask in order to pose for photographs on the balcony an act that surprised many observers given he is almost certainly still contagious. A White House photographer stood closely to Trump taking pictures and several staff members were nearby inside. Anti-incumbency against Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's 15-year-old rule in Bihar is stronger that what Lalu Prasad Yadav-led Rashtriya Janata Dal regime faced in 2005, Lok Janshakti Party president Chirag Paswan said on Monday, asserting that he walked out of the ruling alliance in the state so as not to have any 'guilt' of playing a role in continuation of the current dispensation. IMAGE: Lok Janshakti Party chief Chirag Paswan along with party leaders after the meeting ahead of Bihar assembly elections, in New Delhi, on Sunday. Photograph: PTI Photo He also said people of Bihar have decided they do not want to see Kumar to return as chief minister and alleged that the Janata Dal-United leader's sole focus was continuing at the helm, rather than working for the state's welfare. In a hard-hitting attack, Paswan said Kumar's long rule has delivered 'nothing' and Bihar will get an actual 'double-engine' government, which Prime Minister Naendra Modi has often spoken about, when a Bharatiya Janata Party-led dispensation comes to power after the assembly polls. In an interview to PTI, Paswan also refuted suggestions about his own chief ministerial ambitions and asserted that his party wants the BJP to lead the government after the polls, which are scheduled to start from October 28. He heaped praise on the prime minister and noted that he had in 2013 an option of choosing between him and Kumar, who had then quit the National Democratic Alliance against Modi's projection as its prime ministerial candidate, and he had chosen the BJP leader over the chief minister. "I have been consistent in my support, belief and admiration for the prime minister since I fought my first election in 2014. It is Nitish Kumar who has been fluctuating in his stand. "He joined hands with Lalu Prasad and then joined the NDA in 2017. He keeps thinking as how he can continue to be chief minister rather than working for the state's development," he said. Paswan said he never had any belief in Kumar's leadership. Kumar has been Bihar's chief minister since 2005, except for a brief period after the 2014 Lok Sabha polls when he installed Jitan Ram Manjhi at the helm after the JD-U was routed in the general elections. Before Kumar, RJD had ruled the state for 15 years. The LJP had on Sunday announced its decision to leave the NDA in Bihar, saying it cannot accept Kumar's leadership. The BJP, the principal member of the NDA, has already projected the JD-U president as the alliance's chief ministerial candidate for the polls, scheduled to be held in three phases on October 28, November 3 and November 7. The results are expected on November 10. The LJP chief asserted that his party's likely share of seats if it had continued in the NDA had no role in this decision which, he said, was solely driven the fact that his 'Bihar first, Bihari first' vision document was not incorporated by Kumar in his future governance agenda. Kumar's 'saat nischay' (seven resolves) agenda was drafted when the JD-U was in alliance with the RJD and the Congress in 2015, and now he has announced that he will work on similar lines if the ruling alliance is voted to power again, Paswan said. "I wanted my agenda should also be part of the government's functioning. His decision left no space for my party... I was very clear then that I do not want to see him as chief minister again," he said. Speaking of his several meetings with BJP leaders, including its president J P Nadda and Home Minister Amit Shah, he said he had been asking them to 'free me and allow me to contest against Nitish Kumar because I do not want to go with his agenda of governance'. "For the past 15 years his agenda of governance has delivered nothing. I will feel guilty if because of me he becomes chief minister of my state for another five years. I will feel guilty for the rest of my life that because of me my state had to suffer for another five years," Paswan said. Kumar has been at the helm all these years because of a lack of alternative, Paswan said and noted that people of the state now have many options to choose from as there are several smaller alliance in the fray. "Let the people of Bihar decide. One thing they have decided that they do not want to see today's chief minister again at the helm after the polls," he said. Asked how he reconciles his support to the BJP with the saffron party's backing of Kumar, he said every party is free to decide their agenda and he is fine with that. The LJP, he added, had done its best in the February 2005 assembly polls when it had polled more than 12 per cent votes by fighting independently. His party is now organisationally stronger and has a clearer vision for the state, he said, expressing confidence that people will back it in the seats where it contests. The LJP will not put up candidates against the BJP. The chronicle of a life split between urban Manhattan and rural Montana. YEREVAN, 5 OCTOBER, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 5 October, USD exchange rate down by 0.01 drams to 488.59 drams. EUR exchange rate up by 1.85 drams to 574.39 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate up by 0.02 drams to 6.24 drams. GBP exchange rate up by 1.65 drams to 632.77 drams. The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals. Gold price up by 15.88 drams to 29894.12 drams. Silver price up by 3.84 drams to 374.88 drams. Platinum price down by 110.25 drams to 13996.3 drams. By PTI DHAKA: India's new High Commissioner-designate to Bangladesh Vikram Doraiswami on Monday said that he would continue to work to make the bilateral relationship stronger with the country's closest neighbour as he arrived here to take up his new diplomatic assignment. .Doraiswami, a 1992-batch officer of the Indian Foreign Service, arrived in Dhaka through the Ankura land border International Immigration Checkpost in Brahmanbaria. HC-designate Sh. Vikram K. Doraiswami (@VDoraiswami), accompanied by his wife Smt. Sangeeta Doraiswami, arrived in #Dhaka, through Akhaura land border, on 05 October 2020 to take charge as the 17th High Commissioner of #India to the Peoples Republic of #Bangladesh pic.twitter.com/kA5JoB0cAm India in Bangladesh (@ihcdhaka) October 5, 2020 "HC-designate Sh.Vikram K.Doraiswami, accompanied by his wife Smt Sangeeta Doraiswami arrived in Dhaka through Akhaura land border on October 5 to take charge as the 17th High Commissioner of India to the People's Republic of Bangladesh," the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh said in a tweet. Doraiswami, whose name was announced as the next High Commissioner to Bangladesh in August, was Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi. He will succeed Riva Das Ganguly, who has returned to New Delhi to take up her new assignment in the MEA. Doraiswami is expected to take up the assignment shortly after handing over credentials to Bangladesh President Md Abdul Hamid, the Dhaka Tribune reported. After crossing the international border, Doraiswami spoke to journalists about his assignment in Bangladesh and said: "As Bangladesh is India's closest friendly neighbour, I will continue to work to make the bilateral relationship stronger. And I'm so delighted to come to Bangladesh with such a responsibility." India's northeast states are important for building stronger friendship between the two countries, he was quoted as saying by the newspaper. Ben Wallace made the comments ahead of the Integrated Defence and Security Review - Wiktor Szymanowicz Ben Wallace has warned that the UK is looking at deepening our Five Eyes by recruiting more countries in order to send a message to China. The Defence Secretary told a ConservativeHome event at the Tory Party Conference that the UK would look to partner with other countries as part of the intelligence alliance which consists of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. He said: "We would absolutely continue to explore new working with new partners in Asia and deepening our Five Eyes. New Zealand and Australia are obviously over there. Mutual help and mutual signalling about standing by each other is really important for us sending a message to China. I would absolutely consider doing more with it and in fact we are already working around some of those Asia groupings that allow international observers or indeed partner status. So we will be doing more of that, thats really the best way we can do it. Relations have been strained between Beijing and the UK after Boris Johnson bowed to the demands of backbench MPs in July and banned Huawei from the 5G network, with the agreement to strip out all of its existing infrastructure over the next few years. Huawei is viewed as a security threat because of laws in China that oblige private companies to hand over data to the government if required. Earlier this year Mr Wallace wrote in this newspaper that the UK will bolster its ability to fend off threats from China in space, as he warned China too are developing offensive space weapons". Mr Wallace has previously said that the UK needs to be able to fight wars without leaning on the US. Earlier this year he said that rather than always expecting to go into conflicts in coalition with the US, we are going to have to make decisions that allow us to stand with a range of allies, the Five Eyes and our European allies where our interests converge. (Newser) With monuments under attack that honor Confederates, Christopher Columbus and others whose records are being reconsidered, a $250 million project will look for new approaches to reflecting the nation's history. The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation plans to reimagine existing monuments and develop new approaches to future installations, including statues, museums and markers, the New York Times reports. The foundation will suggest what to remove or redo. "It will depend on who comes to us, with which project," said Elizabeth Alexander, its president. The foundation's previous efforts include donating $5 million toward the National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Ala., which tells the story of lynching and enslaved people in the US. story continues below The goal is to convey a more inclusive history in public spaces, including stories that have been marginalized. "There are so many stories of who we are that need to be told," Alexander said. "We don't have our actual, true history represented in our landscape." Less than 2% of the sites on the National Historic Register concern Black people, she said, per ABC, and the totals are lower for Latino, Asian American, and Native American people. Greater context could be added to existing monuments that may distort history. Alexander gave the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington as an example of a successful, inclusive monument. Mitch Landrieu, who was mayor of New Orleans when the city took down its four remaining Confederate monuments, praised the Mellon project. "I hope other philanthropic groups will continue to work together to lift up the entire history of the country," he said. (A milestone monument in Boston has been vandalized.) I dont know who originated it, but some punster came up with the observation, Every new day is a gift. Thats why they call it the present. But when were young, and healthy, its easy to take each new day for granted. We make plans weeks, months, even years in advance, with utmost confidence those plans will be fully realized. However, as we get older especially after encountering health setbacks, or simply the reality that our bodies are aging we discover tomorrow isnt guaranteed. This teaches many of us to appreciate the dawn of another day, the chance to arise from a nights sleep and eagerly face the opportunities and challenges of the next 24 hours. In recent months, two of my friends have undergone open-heart surgery. Now theyre engaged in cardiac rehab programs to help them to resume their active lifestyles. Other friends have confronted various forms of cancer. Then there are coronavirus survivors. Each of these now understands, more clearly than ever, that each new day is truly a gift. We couldnt earn or deserve it. We just received it. The question becomes, what do we do with that gift? How do we use it? Should we try to squeeze every ounce of sensory experience out of each day? Go skydiving, or hang gliding? Ride the fastest, steepest rollercoaster we can find? Travel to exotic locales? Spend our money on the glitzy stuff weve seen advertised? Grab the gusto, as the old commercial slogan used to tell us? We find two very different perspectives in the Bible. The book of Ecclesiastes, which most scholars believe was written by King Solomon, offers a fairly pessimistic view. For instance, the king admitted: I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done and what I had toiled to achieve, everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind; nothing was gained under the sun (Ecclesiastes 2:10-11). Bummer! He was the richest man in the world, at least for his time, yet experienced frustration and futility in pursuing any and all tangible things and experiences the world could offer. Solomon discussed this throughout the book, but ultimately arrived at one conclusion: Then I realized that it is good and proper for a man to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in his toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given him for this is his lot (Ecclesiastes 5:18). In the New Testament, however, we find a more optimistic outlook, one that focuses on eternity rather than this temporary world in which we exist. Jesus exhorts His followers, Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in an steal (Matthew 6:19). If we stop there, He seems in agreement with Solomon. The things that catch our eye, the earthly treasures we work so hard to acquire, slip away. We dont see hearses pulling U-Haul trailers. But then Jesus offers an option, explaining there is a way of investing for our long-term future: But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matthew 6:20-21). We might respond, This sounds good. But how do we do it? Jesus gave us a good starting point in responding to the question from a Jewish religious leader, Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law? Without hesitation, He replied, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:36-37). Loving others, God first, and then our neighbors whomever the Lord brings into our lives is a key to a meaningful, rewarding life and one way to ensure we dont squander the gift of each new day. Ted DeMoss, whom I had the privilege of working with from 1981 to his passing in 1997, used to say that when all is said and done, only two things will remain: the Word of God and people. Jim Elliot, a missionary who lost his life in 1956 while participating in Operation Auca, attempting to evangelize the Huaorani people in Ecuador, made a similar observation: He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose. He also said, Wherever you are, be all there! Live to the hilt every situation you believe to be the will of God. I hope you woke up this morning fully realizing you had received a true gift the gift of a new day. So yes, by all means, grab the gusto. Go for it! But in so doing, grab the gusto for God and His people. * * * Washington: US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says there's no deal yet on a new coronavirus relief package as Democrats wait to see whether the Trump administration will agree to the terms. Pelosi spoke a day after President Donald Trump tweeted, from hospital, his support for more stimulus legislation, writing, "WORK TOGETHER AND GET IT DONE". Pelosi was asked on CBS News' Face the Nation if the President's comment suggested that a deal was in hand or close. US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wants more help for people affected by the pandemic. Credit:Bloomberg "No, it means that we want to see that they will agree on what we need to do to crush the virus so that we can open the economy and open our schools safely," Pelosi said. A Long March 3B rocket carrying the Beidou-3GEO3 satellite lifts off from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center, China, on June 23, 2020. (STR/AFP via Getty Images) China Aims to Win Without Going to War: UK Military Chief China and other authoritarian powers are aiming to defeat the West through attacks below the threshold of war, the head of the British military has said. In a speech at the UK think tank Policy Exchange on Sept. 30, Gen. Sir Nick Carter, Britains chief of the defense staff, unveiled a new Integrated Operating Concept for the British Armed Forces as they respond to the ever more complex and dynamic strategic context. My view is that more of the same will not be enough, Carter said. We must fundamentally change our thinking if we are not to be overwhelmed. The Integrated Operating Concept is, according to the government, a significant shift in military thinking, and a response to the advancing technology and non-traditional tactics, such as disinformation campaigns, used by adversaries. Britains Chief of Defense Staff General Nick Carter (R) arrives to attend a national service of remembrance marking the 75th anniversary of VJ (Victory over Japan) Day at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, central England, on Aug. 15, 2020. (Peter Byrne/Pool/AFP via Getty Images) The Chinese regime, for example, has harnessed technologies and tactics that have outpaced the evolution of international law to avoid their actions being classified as conflict under the current definitions of international law, Carter said. The Peoples Liberation Army sees the ambiguous boundary between peace and war as providing opportunities for the military to achieve its ends, disguising its activities as civilian, and therefore peaceful, he noted. Carter highlighted the role of Chinas new Strategic Support Force, which is designed to achieve dominance in the space and cyber domains. A Chinese navy formation, including the aircraft carrier Liaoning (C), during military drills in the South China Sea, on Jan. 2, 2017. (STR/AFP via Getty Images) The force commands satellite information attack and defense forces; electronic assault forces and Internet assault forces; campaign information operations forces, which include conventional electronic warfare forces, anti-radiation assault forces, and battlefield cyber warfare forces. He also raised concerns over Chinas digital authoritarianism, which refers to the Chinese Communist Partys mass surveillance of its population and its effort to export these tools to other parts of the world. Below the Threshold of War Britains authoritarian rivals, such as China and Russia, cannot afford to go to war as we define it, and therefore want to win below that threshold, Carter said. These regimes believe that they are already engaged in an intense form of conflict that is predominantly political rather than kinetic, he said. Their strategy of political warfare is designed to undermine cohesion, to erode economic, political and social resilience, and to compete for strategic advantage in key regions of the world. Chinese soldiers work at computers. The Chinese regimes cyberattacks against the West have continued despite cyber agreements. (mil.huanqiu.com) Their goal is to win without going to war: to achieve their objectives by breaking our willpower, using attacks below the threshold that would prompt a war-fighting response, he said. We are exposed through our openness, he said, referring to how our own democratic systems can be used against us. A More Persistent Presence in Asia The UK government is conducting a comprehensive review of its foreign, security, and defense policy. As part of the policy shift, the British Army will have a more persistent presence in Asia, Gen. Sir Mark Carleton-Smith, Britains chief of the general staff, said last Tuesday. Private Patrick Rodgers of Britains Anglian Regiment, 2nd Battalion, maintains the perimeter as a Chinook helicopter carries out a medical evacuation during a military exercise on Salisbury Plains near Warminster, England, on July 23, 2020. (Leon Neal/Getty Images) Its an area that saw a much more consistent Army presence in the 1980s but with 9/11 we naturally receded from it, he said. We think now might be the time to redress that imbalance. Having a more persistent army presence in the region will change narratives, provide reassurance to allies and deterrence for adversaries, Carleton-Smith said. They will give the UK more strategic choice and influence. These recent remarks from senior British military leaders reflect a profound shift in the UKs strategic perception of the Chinese regime. Lt. Gen. Jim Hockenhull, Britains chief of defense intelligence, told British media last month that China poses the greatest threat to world order, seeking to impose Chinese standards and norms and using its economic power to influence and subvert, backed up by massive investment in modernizing its armed forces. Like most folks in Port Neches in the early morning of Nov. 27, 2019, Walter Holt was asleep when the explosion at the TPC Group plant shook him from his bed. The ignited vapor cloud and resulting fires were enough to shake up most people who lived as close to the plant as Holt. But he alleges that said the event had a lingering impact on his life due to the post-traumatic stress disorder he lives with due to earlier experiences with the U.S. Marine Corps. The blast not only jolted Holt from his bed, it also triggered a full PTSD episode. The panic and resulting stress greatly affected his life afterward. At the time, I was a nursing student at Lamar State College Port Arthur and a straight-A student, he told The Enterprise. I was able to accommodate my classes because PTSD is a wave; if you can just direct your boat in the right direction you can ride it out. After this, my boat turned into a kayak. Holts story will be one of many that will be examined in the coming civil trial against TPC Group that will kick off sometime after Monday, when lawyers from the company and representatives of the plaintiffs will meet with state District Judge Courtney Arkeen in Orange County for the first time. Mondays administrative conference is designed to hammer out a schedule for the coming proceedings in the weeks and perhaps months ahead. The case was moved to Arkeens 128th District Court in late June after months of deliberation from a multidistrict litigation court searching for the best venue for the parties involved. Lawyers representing TPC filed a motion in January claiming the cases against their client were burdensome because some initial cases were originally filed in Harris County. The scheduling conference was originally set for Aug. 24, but the Orange County Courthouse was closed for several weeks following Hurricane Laura. TPC began demolition of some of its compromised equipment at the Port Neches site in August, but exhibits and evidence were collected before the court order on the site was released. Representatives from TPC Group declined comment for this story. Plaintiffs in the case will be represented by local firms like Brent Coon and Associates and The Ferguson Law Firm, but some have also secured representation from firms in Houston and elsewhere. We are 10 months in without our first hearing yet, said Coon, who has represented plaintiffs in previous industrial disasters like the BP Texas City refinery explosion. But, hopefully after Monday, we can proceed forward. The lawyers representing people affected by the event have criticized the companys safety and emissions records leading up to the incident. They hosted meetings in Port Neches to answer questions from residents who have been trying to work with the company to fix their property damage. In late May, the company was handed an initial fine of $514,692 from the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration for three willful violations connected to the blast. TPC has appealed. Coon said the penalties are some of the highest that the federal agency can levy, but are still not enough to ensure companies act responsibly in the future. OSHA has a $75,000 fine for a willful violation of a rule that killed someone, Coon said, citing one example. If you are a refinery and you dont want to fix something because it costs $500,000, a $75,000 fine is a cost-saving measure. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. There were no fatalities in the TPC explosion, but three people were reported injured after the initial blast. The agency levied $13 million in fines against BP in 2005 for the refinery explosion in Texas City that killed 15 workers and injured 180 others. In 2013, it fined the West Fertilizer Co. $118,000 for an explosion at its facility that killed 15 and injured between 160 and 200 people. A civil case requires a higher level of proof for a judge to declare a company was responsible for emotional or physical damage to someones health. Holt, the Marine veteran from Port Neches, said he is willing to try. Since the blast, he has returned to school, this time to study process engineering. As a part of his therapy, Holt has decided to turn the triggering thoughts of anticipating the next blast into a drive to understand the industry and hopefully make it better from the inside. He said theres more at stake for him personally than any potential monetary award. There needs to be a message that there are consequences for making stupid decisions, he said. Im hoping by telling my story, it will be interpreted by people that they can get the help they need. jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com twitter.com/jd_journalism The Hathras Police have lodged an FIR against unknown" persons for alleged attempt to trigger caste-based conflict and invoked serious charges, including sedition, officials said on Monday. The development comes amid pressure from various social, political groups and citizens for justice over the death of a 19-year-old Dalit woman after she was allegedly gangraped. The Uttar Pradesh Police have also claimed they have uncovered an international plot to defame the state government and instigate riot along caste lines. The first information report (FIR) was lodged at the Chandpa police station on Sunday afternoon and names unidentfied people as accused, according to police officials. A website - justiceforhathrasvictim.carrd.co - which disseminated information on how to protest safely and avoid the police has been linked to the conspiracy", sources told the Indian Express. The site, which listed dos and donts on staying safe during riots and taking care while police fired tear gas, is now unavailable. Most of the content had been copied from Black Lives Matter protesters in the United States, the sources added. The FIR mentions 19 charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The IPC sections include 124A (sedition), 505 (intending to cause public alarm and inducing someone to commit offence against state or public tranquility), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups). The police have also invoked section 67 (transmitting obscene material in electronic form) of the IT Act, according to the FIR. The UP governments statements and facts related to the Hathras incident are being forged, manipulated and circulated through social media. Misleading content is being shared with forged logos of media houses, a police officer told PTI. Some accused are circulating material that could trigger caste-based conflict and these are serious offences considering the current situation in the region, the officer said, adding the investigation is underway. According to local officials, the Hathras police have so far registered around a dozen complaints under the IT Act related to the Dalit girls case and they are being probed by the Cyber Cell. The Dalit teen had died of grievous injuries in a Delhi hospital on September 29, a fortnight after she was allegedly raped at her village by four upper caste men. She was cremated in the early hours of September 30. While the family claimed the cremation was carried out against their wishes, the police said the last rights in the dead of the night were held as per the wishes of the family". The incidents have triggered massive outrage across the country, bringing severe flak for the government of UP which has now recommended a CBI probe into the whole episode. Meanwhile, CM Yogi Adityanath said on Monday that his opponents were conspiring against him by trying to lay a foundation for caste and communal riots through international funding. For last one week, opposition parties were keen to see riots. We need to move forward amidst all these conspiracies," he said. BJP workers need to dedicate themselves for the countrys development. Anti-social and anti-national elements find it difficult to accept the states development as they always wanted a riot-stricken Uttar Pradesh. So they are hatching conspiracies now," he said. Mumbai, Oct 5 : Bobby Deol completes 25 years in Bollywood, and the actor says his journey has taught him to never give up and always bounce back. He posted a photo collage on Twitter with the words: "25 years of lights, camera, action, humble and grateful". Alongside the image, he wrote: "It's been 25 years at the movies for me.. A journey that started in October of 1995... an overwhelming and emotional one. I proudly say, I've seen the highs and the lows. The one thing these 25 years have taught me is, to never give up; always bounce back and keep moving ahead!" He added: "Looking forward to another 25 years with my colleagues at the movies with a promise to be worthy of all your love and support and to entertain you till my end credits roll out!" Bobby made his acting debut in Rajkumar Santoshi's 1995 release, "Barsaat". Over the years, he has scored with roles in films like "Kareeb", "Gupt", "Soldier", "Badal", "Bichhoo", "Humraaz", "Apne", and the "Yamla Pagla Deewana" films. His performance in Prakash Jha's recent web series "Ashram" was widely lauded. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text DRDO successfully flight-tests 'SMART', Rajnath Singh congratulates team India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, Oct 05: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has flight-tested SMART, Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo. The successful flight test was conducted at 11.45 hours from Wheeler Island off the coast of Odisha today. Congratulating the DRDO and other stakeholders, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, this will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare.The Defence Minister said it is a significant achievement. Speaking about it, Chairman DRDO, Dr G Satheesh Reddy, said, "SMART is a game-changer technology demonstration in the ASW." The events of today were monitored by the tracking stations (Radars, Electro Optical Systems) along the coast and the telemetry stations including down range ships. A number of DRDO laboratories, including DRDL, RCI Hyderabad, ADRDE Agra, NSTL Visakhapatnam, have developed the technologies required for SMART. Amit Shah compliments successful test-firing of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News Earlier, this month DRDO had successfully tested Laser-Guided Anti Tank Guided Missile. The test was conducted from MBT Arjun at KK Ranges (ACC&S) Ahmednagar in continuation with the successful trials done on September 22. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 15:09 [IST] Britain's vaccine task force chair, Kate Bingham, said that vaccinating everyone in the country for the coronavirus was 'not going to happen', telling the Financial Times that they need to vaccinate only those at risk. "There's going to be no vaccination of people under 18. It's an adult-only vaccine, for people over 50, focusing on health workers and care home workers and the vulnerable", Bingham said in an interview with the newspaper. Bingham's comments follow that of Prime Minister Boris Johnson who on Sunday said he expected the next few months of the COVID-19 pandemic to be bumpy, but that things would look radically different in the spring. "People keep talking about time to vaccinate the whole population, but that is misguided," she said to the FT, adding that vaccinating healthy people, who are much less likely to have severe outcomes from COVID-19, "could cause them some freak harm". Britain suffered Europe's worst death toll from the virus with the current total standing at over 42,300. The Times, citing government scientists, reported last week that a mass roll-out of a COVID-19 vaccine in Britain could be finished in as little as three months, adding that health officials estimate that every adult could receive a dose of the vaccine within six months. Bingham said the government was aiming to vaccinate about 30 million people, compared with a UK population of about 67 million, if a successful vaccine against COVID-19 was found, according to the FT. Also read: Coronavirus vaccine update: AstraZeneca resumes clinical trials in Japan, US still paused Also read: COVID-19 vaccine: Centre expects to inoculate 25 crore people using 50 crore doses by July 2021 The Armenian Assembly of America (Assembly) on Sunday praised Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), who spearheaded a letter to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo calling for the suspension of aid to Azerbaijan and Turkey. We commend Senator Menendez and his colleagues for urging greater U.S. engagement at the highest levels and to suspend all U.S. security assistance to Azerbaijan and to suspend all sales and transfers of military equipment to Turkey, said Assembly Executive Director Bryan Ardouny. The United States, the UN Security Council, the EU, the Organization of American States, German Chancellor Merkel and French President Macron, and others have urged an immediate cessation of hostilities, but Azerbaijani President Aliyev and Turkish President Erdogan continue their campaign against the Armenian people, Ardouny continued. Section 907 of the Freedom Support Act must be fully enforced at a minimum. We call on the Administration to take decisive action. Lives are at stake. Given the possibility that this conflict could engulf the region and draw in other external actors, it is imperative that the U.S. use its diplomatic leverage to bring about an immediate cease fire, the letter stated. Signed by Senator Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY), along with Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bob Casey, Jr. (D-PA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ed Markey (D-MA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), the letter also stated in part that Turkeys unconditional support for Azerbaijans action is a significant escalation and yet another disturbing example of Turkeys aggressive behavior beyond its borders. The letter urged the Secretary of State to: 1) Reinvigorate the Minsk Group and offer to host a meeting akin to the 2001 Key West peace talks, 2) Immediately suspend all security assistance to Azerbaijan citing its aggression and human rights record; and 3) Convince Turkey to immediately disengage or immediately suspend all sales and transfers of military equipment to Ankara; and 4) Using the power of the Secretarys office bring about a peaceful resolution to this terrible violence and get the parties back to the table as soon as possible. By PTI JAMMU: A junior commissioned officer (JCO) of the army was killed in heavy shelling by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, officials said. This was the fourth fatal casualty in ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the past five days. "A JCO was killed in unprovoked Pakistani firing and shelling in Nowshera sector of Rajouri, the officials said, adding that further details were awaited. Earlier, a defence spokesperson said Pakistani troops opened fire and shelled mortars in forward areas in two sectors along the LoC in the twin districts of Rajouri and Poonch in Jammu region. Pakistan initiated the unprovoked ceasefire violation in Nowshera sector of Rajouri around 6. 30 pm. The Indian Army retaliated befittingly and the cross-border firing between the two sides continued for quite some time, the spokesperson said. Later at around 8. 20 pm, he said Pakistani troops resorted to unprovoked firing and mortar shelling in Degwar sector of Poonch district, drawing strong retaliation by the Indian army. The cross-border shelling between the two sides was going on when last reports were received, a police official said. Three army personnel were killed and five others injured in Pakistani firing and shelling on forward posts in Krishna Ghati sector of Poonch and Naugam sector of Kupwara district on October 1. PTI TAS AB DPB DPB 10052144 NNNN David, Are you sure you want to be using only US cash, not CRC (colones) when making payments in CR? In the meantime, see ("Money - How to?"), which we had found helpful. The ATM fees might depend on 2 factors - the fees of the CR machine/bank it belongs to, and the international withdrawal fees from your own card / bank, depending on your acct. features. In case you are talking about withdrawing a considerable amount of cash (it is usually not recommended to travel with large amounts of cash on you) - some ATMs in CR have a transaction withdrawal limit, in CRC and/or in US currency, but might allow more than 1 consequitive transaction, one after the other (each withdrawal came with its own fees). VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Copper Mountain Mining Corporation (TSX: CMMC) (ASX: C6C) ("Copper Mountain" or the "Company") will be releasing its financial and operating results for the third quarter of 2020 before markets open on Monday, November 2, 2020. The Company will be hosting a conference call on Monday, November 2, 2020 at 7:30 am (Pacific Time) for senior management to discuss the third quarter 2020 results. Dial-in information: Toronto and international: 647-427-7450 North America (toll-free): 1-888-231-8191 To participate in the webcast live via computer go to: https://produceredition.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1379598&tp_key=9549f68559 Replay Call Information Toronto and international: 416-849-0833, Passcode: 3359433 North America (toll-free): 1-855-859-2056, Passcode: 3359433 The conference call replay will be available until 8:59 pm (Pacific Time) on November 9, 2020. An archive of the audio webcast will also be available on the company's website at http://www.cumtn.com. About Copper Mountain Mining Corporation: Copper Mountain's flagship asset is the 75% owned Copper Mountain mine located in southern British Columbia near the town of Princeton. The Copper Mountain mine currently produces on average approximately 90 million pounds of copper equivalent annually. Copper Mountain also has the permitted, development-stage Eva Copper Project in Queensland, Australia and an extensive 2,443 km2 highly prospective land package in the Mount Isa area. Copper Mountain trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "CMMC" and Australian Stock Exchange under the symbol "C6C". Additional information is available on the Company's web page at www.CuMtn.com. On behalf of the Board of COPPER MOUNTAIN MINING CORPORATION "Gil Clausen" Gil Clausen, P.Eng. Chief Executive Officer Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This news release may contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as "plans", "expects", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance and opportunities to differ materially from those implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include the successful exploration of the Company's properties in Canada and Australia, the reliability of the historical data referenced in this press release and risks set out in Copper Mountain's public documents, including in each management discussion and analysis, filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although Copper Mountain believes that the information and assumptions 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, Copper Mountain disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. SOURCE Copper Mountain Mining Corporation Related Links www.CuMtn.com A major study of women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) - a breast condition that can become invasive cancer - has shown that surgery to remove the tissue followed by radiotherapy offers better protection compared to surgery alone. The study, presented at the 12th European Breast Cancer Conference, followed patients for up to 27 years. Although it shows that the benefit of radiotherapy and surgery over surgery alone persists, it also suggests that this benefit reduces over time. Researchers say these new findings clarify the long-term risks for women with DCIS and may help women and their doctors to decide which treatment is right for them. DCIS is a condition where cells lining the milk ducts have started to turn into cancer cells but have not spread into other parts of the breast. DCIS is often picked up by breast screening and affects tens of thousands of women in Europe each year. Only a proportion of DCIS cases will progress into invasive cancer and little is known about which cases will progress, so the treatments available to patients are very similar to treatments for invasive breast cancer. The research was presented by Dr Maartje van Seijen from the Netherlands Cancer Institute (Amsterdam, The Netherlands). She said: "Most women who are diagnosed with DCIS are offered surgery to remove the abnormal breast tissue and they are often also offered radiotherapy, even though the majority would not go on to develop invasive breast cancer. We wanted to look at how this group of women get on in the long term, according to which treatment they received." The study included 10,045 women diagnosed with DCIS in The Netherlands between 1989 and 2004. Researchers gathered data on whether the women were treated with breast-sparing surgery to remove the DCIS, or breast-sparing surgery followed by radiotherapy, or mastectomy (removing the whole breast). They collected information on whether the women were subsequently diagnosed with DCIS in the same breast again or with an invasive breast cancer in the same breast. In the first ten years after diagnosis, women who had breast-sparing surgery but not radiotherapy had a risk of 13.0% (130 out of 1000 women) of being diagnosed with DCIS again and their risk of invasive breast cancer was 13.9% (139 out of 1000). Women treated with breast-sparing surgery and radiotherapy had a risk of 4.6% (46 out of 1000 women) of DCIS in the first ten years and 5.2% (52 out of 1000 women) of invasive breast cancer. But although women who had radiotherapy had lower risks in the first ten years, in the following years (ten or more years after diagnosis), their risks were closer to those for women who had surgery alone. After ten years post diagnosis, women who had breast-sparing surgery but not radiotherapy had a risk of 1.2% (12 out of 1000 women) of being diagnosed with DCIS again and their risk of invasive breast cancer was 11.8% (118 out of 1000). In women treated with breast-sparing surgery and radiotherapy these figures were 2.8% (28 out of 1000 women) for DCIS and 13.2% (132 out of 1000 women) for invasive breast cancer. The risk of DCIS or invasive cancer recurring in these women will diminish over time, whether they had just the breast-sparing surgery or breast-sparing surgery with radiotherapy. This study shows that, overall, the addition of radiotherapy gives women the best chances." Dr Maartje van Seijen, Netherlands Cancer Institute "However, there remains a chance of a new DCIS or invasive cancer developing that is not related to the initial diagnosis and we would expect this risk to be similar between the two types of treatment. In a very small number of women, radiotherapy itself might cause a new breast cancer, often many years after the radiotherapy was given." The study also showed that women who had mastectomy to treat their DCIS had the lowest risks of invasive cancer. Dr van Seijen added: "Although patients who have a mastectomy have the lowest risk of recurrence, it's important to remember that, according to previous research, overall survival in patients who have a mastectomy is the same as in patients who have less aggressive treatments. For the majority of women with DCIS, whose condition will never become invasive, mastectomy would be considered over-treatment." Professor Emiel Rutgers is President of the European Breast Cancer Council, a member of the of 12th European Breast Cancer Conference scientific committee and was not involved in the research. He said: "DCIS is a condition that affects thousands of women and a proportion of them go on to develop invasive breast cancer. Most of these women will have decades of life ahead of them so it's vital that we understand the long-term impact of the treatments we offer. "We still need to know much more about DCIS and, in particular, which women will go on to develop invasive cancer and which will not. In the meantime, studies like this one provide patients and their doctors with more information about the benefits and costs of the different treatments available to them. "Previous research shows that the risk of dying of cancer is only 1-2% in the 20 years following a DCIS diagnosis. So, it's important to remember that whether treated with breast conserving surgery alone or surgery with radiotherapy, the risk of dying from breast cancer in women who had DCIS remains very low." Trials for testing air passengers are expected to begin in a fortnight in a victory for the Daily Mails Get Britain Flying campaign. Boris Johnson has told the boss of Heathrow that the Government is aiming to start testing in two weeks, with a regional air corridor to the US potentially in place by Thanksgiving Day on November 26. Ministers are said to favour the German model of testing twice: once up to 72 hours before departure and again after a few days of quarantine. Trials for testing air passengers are expected to begin in a fortnight in a victory for the Daily Mails Get Britain Flying campaign. The coronavirus testing facility at Heathrow is pictured above If passengers test negative on both occasions, they can leave quarantine early. According to industry insiders, trials are expected to take place on a limited selection of routes at this stage. Flights between New York and London the worlds busiest leisure and trade route are seen as the most likely to be chosen for trials. Last night, the US Department of Transportation confirmed it has been in talks with the British Government about opening transatlantic routes, but stressed an announcement is not expected imminently. Ministers are keeping details of their testing plan tightly under wraps but Transport Secretary Grant Shapps is expected to give an update this week. According to industry insiders, trials are expected to take place on a limited selection of routes at this stage. Passengers are seen arriving at Heathrow in August Aviation bosses have been demanding airport tests to save jobs and rescue the virus-ravaged economy. Heathrow chief John Holland-Kaye told Travel Weekly: Weve heard from the Prime Minister that he hopes to go to a trial in the second half of October. It would take a couple of weeks to put into practice, but if we get good results, there is no reason we shouldnt be able to extend it. And in a talk at the Tory party conference on Saturday, Stephen Barclay, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, said: I am expecting Grant Shapps and Matt Hancock to say more about this in the coming days. Test yourself EVERY morning We will all soon be able to test ourselves for Covid-19 when we brush our teeth in the morning, a health minister has predicted. Lord Bethell said the Government was exploring technology which will allow people to conduct a test every day. This will mean they can safely stop social distancing without fear of putting others at risk, allowing them to travel on public transport, socialise and return to work. He also courted controversy by claiming Britain will look back at its Covid-19 response like the Olympics and be extremely proud. Lord Bethell added: There have been some outstanding pieces of delivery that have not been fully appreciated. When its all over and we look back and reflect, we will actually be extremely proud of ourselves. Advertisement But from a Treasury point of view, the sort of things you would expect us to be looking at is what testing can we have at airports, and how does that interact with the quarantine rules? What is best in class internationally? So, if we look, for example, at some of the German states which are using testing to then release earlier from some of the restrictions. Mr Barclay also said the Treasury is considering granting special exemptions to business travellers, although this is not expected to form part of the trial. Under the testing proposal put forward by industry leaders, passengers flying between certain destinations would be allowed to board only if they test negative up to 72 hours before departure. They would have to go into quarantine on arrival in Britain but could be freed if they test negative after five days. This would satisfy experts on the Governments Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, who say tests after five days detect up to 85 per cent of coronavirus cases, and 96 per cent after eight days. It is thought passengers will be asked to pay for private tests as part of ticket costs to avoid putting pressure on the NHS. A Department for Transport spokesman said: Work is ongoing with clinicians, the devolved administrations and the travel industry to consider if and how testing could be used to reduce the self-isolation period. LUCKNOW: Mulayam Singh Yadav, former MLC of Samajwadi Party, passed away in his native village Kakor in Purwa on Saturday (October 3) night. He was 92. He breathed his last at around 9 pm on Saturday, said a report. The veteran leader had been fighting illness for several days. His last rites were performed on Sunday in Uttar Pradesh's Auraiya district. A huge crowd gathered during the final rites to catch a last glimpse of the leader. Mulayam Singh Yadav was said to share close ties with Samajwadi Party supremo and former Uttar Prdaesh Chief Minister Mulayam Singh Yadav. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav paid a tribute on his demise. Yadav, who was elected sarpanch of his village at the age of 21 in 1949, was the block chief for 15 years and a member of the Legislative Council for 20 consecutive years. He was a three-time member of the Legislative Council and also the block chief of Auraiya's block, Bhagya Nagar twice. With a keen sense of politics, he became sarpanch in 1949 and consecutively won the post for five terms. He was the block chief of Bhagya Nagar from 1973 to 1988 and was then elected to the Legislative Council for the first time in 1990. He continued to be a member of the Legislative Council from the local body constituency till 2010. His grandson Gaurav Yadav said that he had recently returned home from a Kanpur hospital; however his health deteriorated again. SP district president Rajveer Singh Yadav, former MLA Pradeep Yadav, Indrapal Singh Pal, former district president Ashok Yadav, former principal Dr. Ajab Singh Yadav, former Block Chief Vinay Yadav, Vaikunth Yadav and other leaders reached the village and paid tribute to the late leader. His grandson Gaurav Yadav said that recently he returned home from the Regency Hospital in Kanpur. Live TV From 2009 until 2015 Holder served as the nations top lawyer under President Barack Obama. Although appointed by the president and part of the presidential cabinet, Holder said it is important for the AG to remember he is the lawyer for the people, not the lawyer for the president.The power of the AG is awesome, he continued, and has to be used in a neutral and nonpartisan way. Holder recalled that his own relationship with Obama, who is a personal friend, at times became stilted due to decisions I made independently that I did not inform him about. Holder has some concerns over the recent developments at the US Department of Justice, he said, commenting that the power of the department has almost been weaponized under the Donald Trump administration and used against perceived opponents of the president. Sorenson also asked about the issue of oversight, pointing out that President Trump has so far fired five inspectors general. It is the job of inspectors general to point out the failures of the president, said Holder, and the fact that Trump has dismissed a number of them suggests a need to think about ways to increase the protections they have. He expressed concern over the failure of Congress to engage in robust oversight. Regarding the Breonna Taylor case, Holder welcomed the impending release of grand jury documents relating to the fatal police shooting of the twenty-six year-old African American woman in her own apartment in March. However, he warned that this is likely to be a tough case. There is clearly systemic racism in the justice system, he said, and we need to be honest about the impact of race in that system. Even people of color have biases, observed Holder. If we can address these issues and make race-sensitive policies, he added, we would be in a better place. But this requires societal questions, and thats tough. Holder, whose brother was a police officer, welcomed the idea of adjusting qualified immunity for police officers to make them more accountable for their actions. However, he also stressed they should have some degree of protection under the law. Police officers have tough jobs, he said. Theyve got to make split-second decisions. "The power of the AG is awesome and has to be used in a neutral and nonpartisan way. On the recent presidential debate, Holder cast serious doubt on President Trumps claim about the reliability of mail-in ballots. Hes essentially trying to delegitimize the election, he said of the president. Mail-in voting, he said, has been used in states around the country for a good number of years. For example, in Oregon, he explained, thats the only way you can vote, while Florida, where President Trump is registered, also uses mail-in voting to a large extent. Theres no indication that mail-in voting has resulted in widespread voter fraud. On the Supreme Court situation, where the Trump administration is in the process of confirming Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court bench weeks before an election, Holder said there has to be a response. He described the impending move as an inappropriate use of power. A short-term response, he said, could be expanding the size of the Court by adding a couple more justices. In the long-term, Holder suggested depoliticizing the situation by giving Supreme Court justices eighteen-year terms rather than life terms. He also recommended allowing presidents to appoint two justices during their term, in their first and third years. Holder ended the town hall on a note of optimism, when asked why students should consider a career in public service. We should all think of ourselves as public servants and think of ways that we can enhance our civic engagement, he said. The problems that we face are man-made in nature, and therefore theyre susceptible to man-made and woman-made solutions. Holder also expressed cautious optimism that the current moment of what he called racial awakening will turn into a real movement and a herald a new progressive era. In 2014, TIME magazine named Eric Holder to its list of the 100 Most Influential People, stating that he worked tirelessly to ensure equal justice. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. At the initiative of the Armenian side Prime Minister of Armenia NIkol Pashinyan and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation, ARMENPRESS was informed from the official website of the Kremlin. Its mentioned that the sides continued the discussions over the escalation of the armed confrontation in Nagorno Karabakh conflict zone, which has acquired a large-scale nature and causes serious losses for both sides, including civilian casualties. Vladimir Putin emphasized the necessity of an immediate cessation of the military operations. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan Sheriffs deputies said four people fled from the still-moving car and ran eastbound towards a tree line. Deputies tried to use a stun gun on the closest subject but it didnt make a connection, though were able to catch up with him in the far back lot of the property, a report said. In 1961, Ruth Colvin was shocked to discover the high level of illiteracy in Syracuse. Despite her lack of teaching experience, Ruth chose to tackle the problem by founding a small literacy tutoring group. While she started without help, it wasnt long before she enlisted key players in the community, and then consulted with reading specialists at Syracuse University. Ruths efforts ultimately became Literacy Volunteers of America (now ProLiteracy). She herself has taught hundreds of people to read. Ruth and her husband, Bob, also traveled extensively, visiting third-world countries, promoting literacy and learning about cultures and religions very different from their own. She has received 10 honorary doctorates and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and was inducted into the National Womens Hall of Fame. Ruth has written 12 books, most on literacy and tutoring. Her latest, My Travels Through Life, Love, and Literacy A Memoir: A Journey Over 100 Years in the Making, was published in May. In it, Ruth reflects upon her life, starting with her childhood in Chicago growing up during the Depression, to her early days living in Syracuse during World War II with her husband, to her travels to countries spanning the globe. "As I shared my life experiences, I learned that seeds were planted all my life that made me the person I am. I learned from my mistakes - as well as from my successes - and some disasters were blessings in disguise,'' Ruth writes. Ruth Colvins local library is Petit Branch, the little library nestled in the Westcott neighborhood of the City of Syracuse. Ruth visits Petit Branch at least once per week to pick up books and always takes the time to chat with the library staff about her adventures. She often spends a little extra time with a librarian asking that they search for books on a vast range of topics. At age 103, Ruth epitomizes a life of learning, considers reading a privilege and calls the library one of her communitys greatest assets. She never fails to talk about how important libraries have been in her life, and how grateful she is that the public library is here for her. Join the Onondaga County Public Libraries and Petit Branch as we celebrate An Evening with Ruth Colvin via Zoom on Thursday, October 22, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Ruth will be reading from her new memoir. Signed copies of Ruths book will be given to the first 10 people who register for the event at www.onlib.org. Kolkata, Oct 5 : Municipal Affairs Minister and Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim on Monday termed the killing of Manish Shukla, BJP leader in Titagarh, as quite 'unfortunate'. "We believe in Gandhian philosophy. Our party supremo Mamata Banerjee does not believe in political violence. We have seen such violence during the 34-year-long Left regime in Bengal," Hakim told mediapersons here. Hakim also claimed that Shukla had to join the BJP under severe pressure from Barrackpore BJP MP Arjun Singh. "Manish Shukla was with me even during the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. We held several meetings jointly in support of Dinesh Trivedi, Trinamool Congress' candidate in Barrackpore," Hakim said. He also said that Shukla was not happy with the BJP. "Why his security cover was removed at the time of firing? Why was Arjun Singh asked to come to Kolkata at the time when the killing took place," asked Hakim, while claiming that the weapon used in the murder was procured from outside. Meanwhile, the preliminary post-mortem report said that three bullets were recovered from Shukla's head. The experts also found several injury marks on the victim's body. The police have collected various CCTV footages from the area to identify the assailants. OTTAWA - Canadians forced to miss work because of COVID-19 can start applying for financial support from the federal government this week. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. A health-care worker sprays a womans hand with disinfectant as she waits to be tested for COVID-19 at a testing clinic in Montreal, Sunday, October 4, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes OTTAWA - Canadians forced to miss work because of COVID-19 can start applying for financial support from the federal government this week. The new benefits come amid concerns about new lockdowns and job losses as governments try to get a handle on the growing number of new cases and prevent health-care systems from being overwhelmed. They also follow a bitter political fight in Ottawa that saw all parties support the multibillion-dollar suite of new benefits despite misgivings about how it was rushed through Parliament by the Liberal government. It is vital that Canadians have access to income support that reflects the impacts the pandemic has on their employment," National Revenue Minister Diane Lebouthillier said in a statement on Sunday. The new caregiver benefit responds to numerous calls since the pandemic started for more support for parents and others who are forced to miss work to care for a dependent due to COVID-19. Women in particular have seen a disproportionate impact on their careers and earnings because of the pandemic, with many shouldering much of the burden of child care and home schooling. Canadian households can apply for $500 per week for up to 26 weeks when one person misses more than half a week of work because they have to care for a child because of the pandemic. That includes children whose schools or daycares are closed due to COVID-19, and children who are forced to miss school or daycare because they have contracted the virus or may have been exposed. The benefit, which Canadians can apply for through the Canada Revenue Agency, also applies to people forced to miss work to care for family members whose specialized care is unavailable due to COVID-19. The federal government anticipates 700,000 Canadians will apply for the caregiver benefit. Canadians can also access a new sick-leave benefit that pays up to $1,000 over two weeks for those unable to work because they have contracted COVID-19 or are forced to self-isolate because of the virus. Ottawa expects 4.4 million Canadians to apply for sick leave. The federal NDP had made the creation of a sick-leave benefit for workers a condition for it to support the Liberals' effort to fast-track billions of dollars in new COVID-19 relief through Parliament last week. The package included the two new programs and a third replacing the $500-per-week Canada Emergency Response Benefit, the main support program for those unable to work due to COVID-19. Canadians can start applying for the new Canada Response Benefit, which will also pay $500 per week for up to 26 weeks, starting Oct. 12. Canadian Labour Congress president Hassan Yussuff welcomed the new caregiver and sick-leave benefits as long overdue for Canadian workers whose employers don't offer such support. They are also timely given the rising number of cases in different parts of the country, he said. More than 1,600 new cases of COVID-19 were reported on Sunday, even though some provinces did not provide updated numbers. The figures have prompted fears of looming lockdowns in some areas. "It's really a blessing for a lot of people who are going to need them," Yussuff said of the new benefits. "People are going to have the security of having an income if they have to take time off, and not have to worry about not being able to pay their rent or buy groceries or whatever their needs might be." Jen Zoratti | Next A weekly look towards a post-pandemic future delivered to your inbox every Wednesday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. As he welcomed the new benefits, Yussuff noted they are only temporary and that COVID-19 has underlined the need for permanent caregiver and sick-leave support even after the pandemic. "While these benefits are temporary in nature, they also speak to the fact that millions go to work every day without having sick leave or access to family-care leave," he said. Canadian Federation of Independent Business president Dan Kelly described the new caregiver and sick-leave benefits as "entirely reasonable" given the unprecedented nature of the pandemic. Yet he expressed concern about any move making the measures permanent, suggesting businesses will be forced to shoulder much of the financial burden in the form of increased EI premiums or taxes. "Any of those changes will have to come from the pockets of employers that are already empty," Kelly said, adding that the vast majority of small businesses have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. Highlights Pixel 4a will go on sale in India on Flipkart from October 17. Pixel 4a is more affordable compared to Pixel 5, Googles other phone this year. There will launch offers available on Pixel 4a on October 17. The much-awaited economy Google Pixel phone will go on sale on Flipkart as part of the Big Billion Days. The Walmart-owned online retail giant Flipkart has listed Google Pixel 4a as a Big Billion Days attraction. Big Billion Days is Flipkart's festival season sale and is organised annually like Amazon's Great Indian Shopping Fest. Akin to the US's famous Black Friday sales, these annual sale events offer big discounts on popular products. Pixel 4a is the economy version of Google's flagship Pixel phone lineup. The last Pixel launched in India was the Pixel 3a as the Pixel 4 was not launched in India. The latest and better Google Pixel phones Google Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5 will also not be officially sold in India. Google Pixel phones are known for their smooth software-hardware integration and great camera. These phones are not the tops in terms of hardware specifications but the software more than makes up for it. Google Pixel 4a features a single camera setup for the primacy camera in an age where most phones come with a quad-camera setup. The camera is the same as in last year's Pixel 3a but improved and has astrophotography. The fingerprint sensor has returned and is at the back at the most intuitive place. The date the Google Pixel 4a goes on sale has been announced, albeit unofficially, as October 17 but there's no confirmed word on price yet. The tentative price is said to be between Rs 30,000 and Rs 35,000. A seller has already been selling the Google Pixel 4a on Amazon at Rs 55,000. That is the imported version and hence the substantial markup that probably includes import duty. Here are some facts about the Pixel 4a: Pixel 4A specs and features As far as key specs of the Pixel 4a are concerned, here is what you need to know. The phone is powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G. Unlike the Pixel 4a 5G, which is not coming to India, the Pixel 4a only supports 4G network. Though this should not be an issue for most Indian shoppers given that we don't have 5G in the country yet. The pixel 4a uses a 5.8-inch screen with FullHD+ resolution 1080 x 2340 pixels. The panel on the screen is OLED and there is Gorilla Glass 3 on top of the screen. The Pixel 4a has 6GB RAM, 128GB storage, a 3140 mAh battery with support for 18W fast charging, a polycarbonate read plastic body, and weight of just 143 grams, which makes the phone one of the lightest smartphones right now in the market. There is a fingerprint sensor on the back of the Pixel 4a. According to Google, camera performance of the Pixel 4a is one of its highlights. Google is fairly conservative when it comes to camera hardware in its phones and the Pixel 4a is no exception. It doesn't have three or four rear cameras. Instead it has just one, powered by a 12-megapixel sensor paired with a F1.7 lens. On the front, there is an 8-megapixel selfie shooter. However, Google says that don't get fooled by the specs. The Pixel 4a camera performance is expected to be in class of what phones like Pixel 3 and the Pixel 4 offer. In other words, Google's photo algorithms and features like HDR+ the Pixel 4a should click fine photos. Just like other Pixel phones, the Pixel 4a also runs a clean version of the latest Android 11. Pixel 4a India price, sale and offers As noted, Pixel 4a in India will go on sale on October 17 on Flipkart. Before that Flipkart will reveal more details of the Pixel 4a sale on October 9. The price of the Pixel 4a globally is $349. In India, Google products cost slightly more compared to the US, so you should expect a price of between Rs 30,000 to Rs 35,000 for the Pixel 4a. While the online sale of the Pixel 4a will be on Flipkart, offline stores like Croma are also likely to sell the phone because they have traditionally sold Google products like earlier Pixel phones and Nest smart speakers. When Pixel 4a goes on sale on October 17, it will be part of Flipkart's Big Billion Days sale. This means it will get the same offers that will be available on other gadgets during the sale. For now, we know that during the Big Billion Sale there will be an instant 10 per cent discount to shoppers using SBI cards. So if someone buys the Pixel 4a using an SBI card on Flipkart, there will be an instant 10 per cent discount available to the shopper. Pixel 4a review For now Pixel 4a has not been reviewed in India. The phone is yet to be available here. So you should wait for the India Today Tech review of the Pixel 4a for several more days. But globally the Pixel 4a reviews have appeared and the overall consensus about the phone is positive. For example, The Verge writes, "Pixel 4A does a good job of handling all of the basics people expect out of a phone: good battery life, good camera, good software, acceptable speed." The Guardian says, "It is small, light and feels great. It has an OLED screen that is colourful, crisp and big enough for most things. Performance is good, the battery lasts a solid 31 hours between charges and the camera is leagues better than the price may suggest." Android Police says something similar. It writes, "At a time when many of us are feeling more cost-conscious than ever, the Pixel 4a is the right phone at the right time; a tall, cool glass of water in our $1000 smartphone hell. No frills, no gimmicks: a smartphone that is built to do the things you want a smartphone to do, and to do them unfussily." Pixel 4a worth buying in India? This is a question India Today Tech will answer in the Pixel 4a review. But while the global reviews are positive, there are a couple of bits to note: They are all reviewing a $349 phone. In India, how Pixel 4a compares to the likes of the OnePlus Nord, iPhone SE and other phones will majorly depend on its price. If it is too expensive, then it will not be a good option. But if it is closer to Rs 30,000, it could be a great option for people looking to buy a phone with clean software, light weight, and good cameras. The suspect arrested in connection with the killing of a 5-year-old Saturday is the child's half-brother, police said. Anne Arundel County police released more information Sunday, saying evidence recovered at the scene on Apple Leaf Court in Pasadena indicted that the victim's 17-year-old half-brother, Stephen Jarrod Davis II, was the suspect in the homicide. "For a child to have that much rage on another child, why? I think that's the main question all of us are asking," said Lt. Jackie Davis, of the Anne Arundel County Police Department. As a result of the evidence, homicide detectives obtained an arrest warrant charging Davis as an adult with first-degree murder. Around 11:30 a.m. Saturday, detectives, with the assistance of Ohio police agencies, were able to find Davis in the Springfield, Ohio, area. Ohio authorities arrested Davis, who is awaiting extradition back to Maryland. There were no additional criminal charges placed in Ohio. "Another question is where was he going? We don't know if he had family out there. We don't know if he was just aimlessly driving away. We're not sure yet," Davis said. An autopsy was completed Sunday and the cause of death was determined to be multiple sharp force injuries and the manner of death was ruled homicide. "She had multiple sharp force injuries, and when you think about that on the tiny body of a 5-year-old, gruesome is really there's no word harsh enough, but that's about as close as I can get," Davis said. Police identified the victim as Anaya Jannah Abdul. "It's not easy to see somebody dead. It's not easy for anybody to see anybody dead. When you make that a child, it makes it worse. And when you make it a child by the hands of another child, there really are no words for that," Davis said. Detectives are still looking into a motive in the case. Police are investigating circumstances in which two suspects tried to disarm members of the security services who were on anti-smuggling surveillance in Victoria Falls last Wednesday, resulting in a shooting incident and the death of the suspects. The incident occurred at Chisuma Business Centre at around 7.30pm when members of the security forces were monitoring anti-smuggling activities and dispersing people who were gathered at the centre in contravention of the Covid-19 regulations. One of the suspects then charges at a member of the security services, before attempting to disarm him, resulting in a scuffle. The other suspect joined in and ignored warnings that he was given. National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the incident. The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating the circumstances in which two suspects tried to disarm members of the security services who were on anti-smuggling deployments in Victoria Falls on September 30, 2020, resulting in a shooting incident and the death of the two suspects, he said. Asst Comm Nyathi warned members of the public against trying to disarm deployed personnel, especially during this period of Covid-19 regulations enforcement. The public is urged to co-operate with security services and observe Covid-19 regulations at all times. Meanwhile, investigations into the incident are currently underway, said Asst Comm Nyathi. Early last month, two assailants killed a Zimbabwe National Army officer and seriously injured his colleague in Chivhu, but were later killed during a dramatic shoot-out with security details. President Mnangagwa described the killing of the soldier and injuring of another in Chivhu, who were part of front-line workers enforcing regulations that the Government announced to curb the spread of the deadly Covid-19 pandemic, as cowardly and senseless. Herald DUBLIN, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Disposable Gloves Market - Global Outlook and Forecast 2020-2025" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. In-depth Analysis and Data-driven Insights on the Impact of COVID-19 Included in this Global Disposable Gloves Market Report The disposable gloves market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 14% during the period 2019-2025. The global disposable gloves market is highly competitive. Innovations, sustainability, and regulatory adherence constitute three pillars for the disposable gloves market success. Factors such as the growth in the aging population, awareness of infection prevention standards, and expansion of healthcare infrastructure are the major factors contributing to market growth. However, growth in medical tourism, advancement in surgical techniques and medical equipment, increase in public and private investments and government initiatives, the onset of pandemic diseases, and the rise in chronic diseases are other drivers stimulating the demand for disposable gloves. The demand for medical gloves has surged up rapidly in countries such as the UK, China, the US, India, Iran, and Italy due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The disease has increased the importance of hygiene among individuals. The market landscape of disposable gloves, which are fast turning into retail commodities, is expected to be accelerated. Insights by Geography North America accounted for over 30% of the total volume consumption in 2019 and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period. The scope of growth remains high in the medical & healthcare, automotive, construction, household applications, and food processing industries. A highly sophisticated food processing industry in the region is supporting the growth of vinyl and food-grade gloves. In countries such as the US, where the market has been well established, the upcoming competition in the market will be based on offering sustainable products with minimum impact on the environment. The rise in the aging population, which requires special care, drives investments in the healthcare segment in North America. Insights by Vendors The disposable gloves industry is highly competitive, with more than 150 recognized vendors across the globe. Factors such as comfort, dexterity, safety, comfort, and price can play a major role in determining the demand and penetration of gloves in the market. Innovation serves as the key differentiator through which brands can capitalize on the competitive trend prevalent in the market. Top Glove is one of the leading vendors in the market. Top glove market segmentation focuses on sustainability and business partnerships. Global collaborations and mergers and acquisitions are helping companies to increase their global footprints. Vendors need to engage with market trends and demands constantly. Prominent Vendors Top Glove Kossan Hartalega Rubberex Ansell Other Prominent Vendors Kimberly-Clark Kanam Unigloves Ammex Supermax The Glove Company Cardinal Health Molnlycke Dynarex Medline SAS Safety Corp. Showa Venom Steel Adenna WinMed Group MedPride Infitec Gloves Superior Glove Key Topics Covered: 1 Research Methodology 2 Research Objectives 3 Research Process 4 Scope & Coverage 4.1 Market Definition 4.1.1 Inclusions 4.1.2 Exclusions 4.2 Base Year 4.3 Scope Of The Study 4.4 Market Segments 4.4.1 Market Segmentation By Type 4.4.2 Market Segmentation By Form 4.4.3 Market Segmentation By End Use 4.4.4 Market Segmentation By Distribution 4.4.5 Market Segmentation By Geography 5 Report Assumptions & Caveats 5.1 Key Caveats 5.2 Currency Conversion 5.3 Market Derivation 6 Market at a Glance 7 Introduction 7.1 Overview 8 Impact Of COVID-19 8.1 COVID-19 Impact On global gloves market 9 Market Opportunities & Trends 9.1 Onset Of Pandemic Diseases 9.1.1 COVID-19 Scenario 9.2 Preference For Nitrile Gloves 9.3 Growth In Cleanroom Technology 10 Market Growth Enablers 10.1 Concern Towards Personal Hygiene 10.2 Growing Medical And Surgical Applications 10.3 Rise In Medical Tourism 11 Market Restraints 11.1 Harmful Side Effects Of Latex 11.2 Rise In Environmental Impacts 11.3 Stringent Manufacturing Regulations 12 Market Landscape 12.1 Market Overview 12.2 Market Size & Forecast (Revenue & Units) 12.3 Five Forces Analysis 12.3.1 Threat Of New Entrants 12.3.2 Bargaining Power Of Suppliers 12.3.3 Bargaining Power Of Buyers 12.3.4 Threat Of Substitutes 12.3.5 Competitive Rivalry 13 Material Type 13.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Revenue) 13.2 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Units) 13.3 Market Overview 13.3.1 Market Size By Revenue 13.3.2 Market Size By Unit 13.4 Latex 13.5 Nitrile 13.6 Vinyl 13.7 Neoprene 13.8 Others 14 Form 14.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Revenue) 14.2 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Units) 14.3 Market Overview 14.3.1 Market Size By Revenue 14.3.2 Market Size By Unit 14.4 Powdered 14.5 Powder-Free 15 End-Use 15.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Revenue) 15.2 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Units) 15.3 Market Overview 15.3.1 Market Size By Revenue 15.3.2 Market Size By Unit 16 Medical 16.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Revenue) 16.2 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Units) 16.3 Surgical 16.4 Examination 17 Non-Medical 17.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Revenue) 17.2 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Units) 17.3 Industrial 17.4 Chemical 17.5 Food 17.6 Others 18 Distribution 18.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Volume) 18.2 Market Overview 18.3 B2b/Institutional 18.4 Retail 18.5 Others 19 Geography 19.1 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Revenue) 19.2 Market Snapshot & Growth Engine (Units) 19.3 Geographic Overview For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/uzu3t5 Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 SOURCE Research and Markets Related Links http://www.researchandmarkets.com While the nations attention has been focused on the presidents COVID-19 diagnosis and the ensuing questions surrounding that, its important to remember there will still be an election in one month. As we reach the four-week mark, the country is closing in on 350 lawsuits filed related to the 2020 elections and COVID. This is very likely to be the most important week so far for those suits. The Supreme Court is expected to weigh in on cases from Pennsylvania and South Carolina, and the justices may set limits on what state and federal courts can do to accommodate voters during the pandemic as well as preemptively resolve one key issue should the 2020 elections go into overtime. Im not optimistic. Advertisement So far, litigation has been a mixed bag for those seeking to protect voting rights during the pandemic. Some courts have extended the deadline for the receipt of absentee ballots, given COVID-related delays, or removed requirements for witness signatures for such ballots. Other courts have rejected accommodations, including in Texas, where both state and federal lawsuits have been unsuccessful in removing the requirement that those under 65 who wish to vote by mail should be able to use the danger of the ongoing pandemic as an excuse to do so. The Texas Supreme Court unanimously rejected the argument that lack of immunity to COVID-19 counts as a disability to allow voting by mail. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who has recently been accused of bribery by several top aides, previously threatened to prosecute voters who try to vote absentee because of fear of contracting COVID-19. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Trump campaign, the Republican Party, and Republican government officials, however, have so far failed in blocking government expansion of voting by mail in places like Nevada. Courts have rejected their evidence-free arguments that such expansion will dilute the votes of legitimate voters by injecting fraudulent ballots into the process. Generally, though, the Republican side may be far more successful in blocking lower court orders sought by Democrats and voting rights groups seeking to expand voting by mail. Although Democrats in particular have crowed about some of their (sometimes partial) victories, things are far from over. The biggest cases in play this week are already before the Supreme Court on an emergency basis. These Pennsylvania and South Carolina cases illustrate the state of play and the kinds of arguments Republicans are making throughout the country to try to make voting by mail harder and thereby shrink turnout in an apparent attempt to benefit Republicans. Advertisement In South Carolina, a federal district court held that a requirement that those voting by mail obtain a witness signature unconstitutionally burdened voters rights during the pandemic, given the higher risk of COVID coming from obtaining such signatures. This followed similar, unchallenged orders from the judge during the primary season. A 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel reversed, but the full 4th Circuit reinstated the requirement. The Republican Party and South Carolina government have gone to the Supreme Court to restore the requirement, even as voting by mail has already begun. Advertisement In Pennsylvania, the state Supreme Court released a series of decisions related to voting by mail. Republicans challenged part of the state ruling that allows ballots received up to three days after Election Day without a legible postmark to be accepted as valid votes and counted as part of the vote totals. They have also challenged other decisions made by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court in a separate lawsuit that is working its way through the federal courts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Between these cases, we see the four main arguments that Republicans are making against easing voter requirements during the pandemic, three of which could well resonate with the five-justice conservative majority on the Supreme Court. First, lets consider the weakest of the Republican arguments, that the acceptance of mail-in ballots received after Election Day without a valid postmark violates federal law establishing a single day for holding the federal election. A number of state and federal courts have agreed to extend ballot deadlines for the receipt of absentee ballots. Some have required that ballots be postmarked by Election Day; others, like Pennsylvania, have gone further and accepted ballots received within a short period after Election Day without a valid postmark. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It seems quite unlikely that the Supreme Court will agree with Republicans that unpostmarked ballots cannot be accepted if they arrive a few days after Election Day. The undisputed evidence is that not all ballots get a postmark from the post office, and accepting ballots arriving within a few days of the election without evidence they were mailed after Election Day seems a reasonable way of interpreting the federal law requiring that ballots be cast on Election Day. Otherwise postmarking would become a de facto federal requirement for late-arriving ballots, disenfranchising voters who acted on time because of lack of post office procedures. The Trump campaign and Republicans are also attacking accommodations made by federal courts during the pandemic on grounds that voters are not heavily burdened by vote-by-mail rules during the pandemic. Under an amorphous doctrine created by the Supreme Court known as the Anderson-Burdick test, when voters claim that a voting rule unconstitutionally burdens the right to vote under the equal protection clause, courts balance the burden on voters with the justification for rules set out by the state. The greater the burden on voters, the more evidence states need to produce to justify their rules. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some lower courts, like the district court in the South Carolina signature case, have held that Anderson-Burdick balancing looks different in a pandemic. While ordinary rules like signature requirements or absentee ballot receipt dates impose only minor burdens on voters in ordinary times, these requirements can be quite burdensome on voters during the pandemic. Without evidence that these laws serve key government purposes, they must be put on hold during the pandemic. Other, more conservative courts have been less accommodating of voters during the pandemic, and more solicitous of weak evidence states present of the need for strict voting rules like a witness signature requirement, which state officials in South Carolina acknowledged prevent no appreciable voter fraud. The Supreme Court, in a case stemming from the April 7 Wisconsin primary, partially rolled back a federal court expansion of voting rules for receipt of absentee ballots. The vote was 54 along party lines, and we can expect the Ginsburg-less court to follow a 53 pattern in these cases. Advertisement The third argument we are seeing from Republicans in both federal and state cases is something I have dubbed the Purcell principle, which suggests that courts should not accept challenges to state laws the nearer the date to an election because changes to voting close to the election can cause voter and election administrator confusion. Advertisement Advertisement The Purcell principle has never been fully explained, it has been applied inconsistently, and it focuses on only one aspect of how courts should consider emergency changes to the rules. It also doesnt follow ordinary Supreme Court practice of considering a number of factors when adjudicating whether to grant emergency relief. Still, many courts this cycle, including the Supreme Court, have rejected changes to voting rules on grounds they come too close to the election. The South Carolina case is particularly interesting since the witness signature requirement was not in place in the primary and has been used for voting so far. Reinstating it now would cause more confusion and disenfranchisement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The final argument that Republicans are advancing is the boldest and perhaps most dangerous one. The argument is that when state supreme courts apply their state constitutions provisions protecting a right to vote to loosen voting rules in a pandemic, these state courts are usurping the power given by the Constitution to state legislatures to set the manner for conducting presidential elections. The argument echoes an argument that three conservative justices on the Supreme Court accepted in the 2000 Bush v. Gore case ending that presidential election. Its a dangerous idea that a state court applying a state constitution is taking away legislative power, particularly in states like Pennsylvania where the state legislature has itself approved the constitutional provisions being applied. Advertisement But this argument is likely to resonate with at least some of the conservative justices on the court. As professor Ned Foley explains, this argument for vast legislative power to set the rules for presidential elections could have dire consequences and that partisan state legislatures wielding this power could create difficulties that call into question the fairness of the election. Of all the arguments advanced by Republicans in these lawsuits, this argument about legislative power can do the most mischief. Most dangerous is the idea, furthered in a recent Bart Gellman Atlantic piece, that state legislatures could try to disenfranchise voters and take back their power to appoint presidential electors directly even after the votes are counted. In short, Democrats have won some important battles. But who wins the war is uncertain in front of a Supreme Court that has not been protective of voting rights. Republicans have plenty of arguments that may appeal to that courts conservative majority. Todd Crawford (pictured in mugshot) was charged with discharge of a firearm on or near a premises in Hilliard, Ohio An Ohio man who was accused of opening fire at another driver during a Pro-Trump car parade on Saturday has turned himself in. Todd Crawford, 58, of Homer, was charged with discharge of a firearm on or near a premises by the Hilliard Division of Police, per a statement obtained by NBC4i. He was placed in the Franklin County Jail and will be arraigned on Tuesday in Franklin County Municipal Court. 'Crawford was participating in a political demonstration when the incident took place,' the statement read. The incident occurred near the town of Hilliard shortly before 11 am as a cavalcade of Trump supporters drove along the I-270. Crawford was driving his black Ford pickup truck when a semi-tractor trailer pulled up next to his vehicle and an argument ensued, the publication reports. Then, Crawford pulled out a .45-caliber pistol and shot into the other person's car. Hilliard police confirmed that a gunman opened fire during a pro-Trump parade on I-270 on Saturday Pictured: A participant in the Trump Parade on I-270 lets flags wave from their car to show support for President Donald Trump 'The caller, who was driving a semi-truck with an attached trailer, reported another driver in a black Ford F-150 pick-up truck had fired a weapon toward his vehicle following an altercation between the two drivers,' the release said, NBC41 reports. Authorities said the argument might have sparked when one of the trucks hit the other while in nearby lanes. Dublin Police took to Twitter shortly after the shooting, urging driver to exercise caution, saying emergency response crews were at the scene of a 'traffic accident'. A Trump supporter secured a Trump dummy to the back of their vehicle along with many flags during the I-270 Trump Parade 'We looped around 270 three times and didnt see any problems,' parade organizer Mary Ann Walker told WCMH-TV. 'I think we saw one accident, maybe a little fender bender off the side of the road. So thats very surprising. 'Hopefully, I wouldnt think it was anybody in our group because everybody is so friendly and nice and I just dont see that happening.' Trump parade in Columbus, Ohio had THOUSANDS of trucks/cars/motorcycles show up!!! Landslide incoming https://t.co/Cb8l3dnTmP veritastips@protonmail.com (@EricSpracklen) October 3, 2020 Police on Saturday were searching for a gunman who opened fire during a Pro-Trump parade in Ohio on Saturday morning. The scene is pictured One person at the Trump Parade waves placard with Trump's face through the sunroof of their car The incident comes just days after President Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden discussed instances of political violence currently plaguing political rallies and social justice protests. This past summer, dozens of people were shot dead and injured as rival political groups clashed in the streets, Saturday's Pro-Trump parade consisted of hundreds of drivers who drove down the I-270 from Columbus. Supporters were also seen gathering on overpasses, waving American flags as the cavalcade drove by. One Twitter user shared video of the parade in process, writing: 'Trump parade in Columbus, Ohio had THOUSANDS of trucks/cars/motorcycles show up!!! Landslide incoming.' In New York City, people gathered near a Regal Cinema in Staten Island to pray for President Trump after his COVID-19 diagnosis on Friday Scores of boats took to the waters of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where they held a 'Make American Boats Great Again' parade in the president's honor The Pro-Trump parade was just one of hundreds of events held across the country on Saturday - exactly one month out from the Presidential election. Many of the gatherings took on a more somber tone following Friday's revelation that the President had tested positive for COVID-19. The Commander-in-chief is currently hospitalized at the Walter Reed Medical Center 'out of an abundance of caution'. A separate car parade took place in Wapakoneta, Ohio, while a boat parade to support the President took place in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Meanwhile, dozens of Republicans turned out to pray for the POTUS at an event in Staten Island, New York. As provincial and city officials continue to debate a moratorium on indoor dining, some restaurants say theyre already feeling a pinch in the wake of new COVID-related restrictions. We had 24 no-shows Saturday night. Its not a coincidence, said Robin Singh, partner at Woods Restaurant and Bar. That came a day after Torontos chief medical officer of health Dr. Eileen de Villa cut the number of people allowed at a restaurant table from 10 to six, and urged the province to shut down indoor dining. Were having to call people up and say well have to put four of you at another table, and they say well, were just not going to bother, said Singh, who estimates his downtown restaurant is seeing just 10 per cent of revenues it had at this time last year. On Monday, de Villa again urged the Ontario government to introduce a 28-day moratorium on indoor dining, something she said the city doesnt have the power to do on its own. We know these measures have been successful in the past, and in other jurisdictions, said de Villa at a press conference where she also reiterated that 44 per cent of recent COVID outbreaks in Toronto had been linked to indoor dining. She wasnt able to immediately say what percentage of new cases had been linked to indoor dining. Singh argued some of those outbreaks could have easily been avoided with more enforcement like the citys recent temporary closure of three King St. restaurants which had been disobeying COVID-related restrictions. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, meanwhile, showed a strong reluctance to deal another blow to the already hard-hit hospitality sector, saying that hes not yet convinced another restaurant shutdown is necessary. Because we have some bad apples, were going to ruin peoples lives? Before I destroy someones life, show me more evidence, said Ford. That was music to the ears of Andrew Oliver, president and CEO of Oliver & Bonacini Hospitality, who argues a shutdown of Torontos restaurants wouldnt be much more than symbolic. How is getting 20 people together in a 500-square-foot condo at midnight safer than being in a bar or restaurant with social distancing? Are we really at a point where we think people wont get together on their own? Oliver asked. At Oliver & Bonacinis dozens of restaurants, Oliver says, 2020 has been a financial struggle unlike any hes ever seen. He estimates revenues are down 60 per cent from this time last year. This company will survive. There are some locations which might not, Oliver said. But Dr. Abdu Sharkawy, an infectious-disease specialist at the University Health Network, said theres no doubt at all in his mind that indoor dining increases the risk of COVID spreading. Sharkawy said a province-wide moratorium on indoor dining and drinking, as has been introduced in Montreal and Quebec City, is necessary to slow the spread of the global pandemic. The province is trying to maintain business for as long as possible and appear supportive of the economy. But its too late to offer these modest concessions with diluted restrictions on capacity, said Sharkawy. Its even more necessary, said Sharkawy, as Torontos contact tracing system has been overwhelmed to the point where the city is now only doing it for people whose infections can be traced back to an outbreak at congregate settings such as long-term care homes. The collapse of the testing and tracing system should have been enough to sound the alarm to policy-makers that we are in big trouble here, said Sharkawy. Im not sure what else were waiting for besides evidence of the health care systems capacity starting to fail. Thats entirely conceivable if flu season is anything but historically mild. Thats not a given. This is a dangerous game to play. If another shutdown happens, though, Oliver says the City of Toronto should also put a moratorium on property taxes. How is it morally acceptable for a government to continue collecting property tax on places theyve shut down?, said Oliver, who also urged all levels of government to make good on promises for hospitality-specific financial aid. If youre going to shut us down as an industry, youd better be there to support us financially, said Oliver. Singh, meanwhile, had another suggestion for political leaders leaning toward a shutdown. Lets see the politicians have to live on CERB. Wed see their perspectives change pretty quickly, said Singh, who said hes scared by the prospect of another shutdown or moratorium on indoor dining. It would be devastating for our industry. Independent places like this? There will definitely be fewer of us, said Singh. Read more about: A 102-year-old woman who has voted in every presidential election since the 1940 match-up between Franklin D. Roosevelt and Wendell Willkie wouldn't let even a pandemic stop her from casting her ballot this year. To play it extra-safe, Bea Lumpkin from Chicago dressed up in head-to-toe PPE to deliver her mail-in ballot the mailbox last week, and made sure to document the moment for social media. 'Thats why I had my grandson take a photo of me, because if I could come out at the age of 102 and face a pandemic [to vote], nobody should have an excuse,' she told Good Morning America. Playing it safe! 102-year-old Bea Lumpkin from Chicago dressed up in head-to-toe PPE to deliver her mail-in ballot the mailbox last week 'If I could come out at the age of 102 and face a pandemic [to vote], nobody should have an excuse,' she said A photo of Lumpkin dressed in gloves and protective headgear while dropping her ballot in a mailbox was shared by the Chicago Teachers Union. Lumpkin has been voting for eight decades, but stresses that this is her most important one yet. 'I think that in this election more than any other that Ive taken part in, the only way we can answer it is for the people to come out and vote and stay active to a degree we've never seen before,' she said. 'I think we can do it. 'Theres a lot at stake. If you never bothered to vote before and if you care anything about the children coming after us, youll come out and vote this time,' she added. Lumpkin, who was born during the 1918 pandemic, is the child of General Jewish Labour Bund members who fled Tsarist Russia. Speaking up: Lumpkin, who was born during the 1918 pandemic, is pictured speaking to protesters against President trump in 2017 Growing up in New York, she was a member of the Young Communist League and participated in strikes against university fees, fascism, militarism, and the framing of the Scottsboro Nine Growing up in New York, she was a member of the Young Communist League and participated in strikes against university fees, fascism, militarism, and the framing of the Scottsboro Nine. During World War II, she worked in the defense industry, and went on to teach for Chicago Public Schools. As an adult, she continued to protest against housing discrimination, for clean drinking water, and for fair industrial labor practices. As Election Day draws near, Lumpkin told the Hyde Park Herald: 'I think democracy is on the line, and if we ever want to have another election, we sure have to deliver a big vote behind Joe Biden, who stands for a continuation of our democratic rights.' 'The issue is basic law, and I suspect that 80% of the population does not want to see fascism in the USA,' she went on. Younger generations: Lumpkin who was four children, three grandchildren, and one great grandchild, said she has 'a lot of confidence' in young people 'It's something so serious whatever it takes, I'm going to make sure that my ballot is counted. Lumpkin who was four children, three grandchildren, and one great grandchild, said she has 'a lot of confidence' in young people, and urges women in particular to exercise their right to vote. 'Everybody needs to come out and vote, but I would make a special appeal to women,' she said. 'When I was born, women didn't have the right to vote. Now, not only our right to vote is threatened, but so is every other right important to us. Let's come out and vote in proportion to our numbers, and I feel that women will respond.' The last words heard by a dying Indigenous woman in Quebec last week were the racist taunts of the hospital staff who were supposed to be helping her. The question for Canadians is: What will they do about it? Joyce Echaquan, a 37-year-old mother of seven children, had gone to a hospital in Joliette, 70 kilometres north of Montreal, seeking medical assistance for severe stomach pains. She warned medical staff she could not tolerate the morphine they gave her because of her heart condition. But it was in her final moments last Monday when she screamed for help because of her pain that her treatment may not have just been inappropriate, it was shockingly cruel. Because Echaquan recorded what was happening on her cellphone, we know that as she moaned in agony, one health-care worker asked her in French, Are you done acting stupid? Are you done? A second health-care worker told Echaquan: You made some bad choices my dear. What are your little children going to think, seeing you like this, eh? And then the first employee said Echaquan is good at screwing more than anything else. And were paying for this. Before we go any further, let us state what should be obvious. No one in this country should die this way. No one should be subjected to such heartless abuse in a Canadian hospital. Most Canadian health care workers probably wouldnt have behaved so abominably. Yet here a woman who deserved sympathy, compassion and gentle care in her final moments was subjected to hateful, racist slurs that were the product of vicious stereotypes. That is the polar opposite of what our health care system should be providing and what Canadian taxpayers expect to be funding. And considering what Echaquan suffered, the firing of a nurse and another hospital worker who subjected her to such vitriol offers little comfort. While Quebec Premier Francois Legault denied that the outrage in Joliette proves the existence of systemic racism in his provinces health care system, many voices in Canadas Indigenous communities say the opposite is true and across the entire land. Consider that as of this past April, more than 100 Indigenous women in Canada had stepped forward with stories of having undergone forced or coerced sterilizations in the countrys hospitals. Or think of British Columbia where investigators are probing reports that health care workers in many of the provinces hospital emergency rooms play a racist game betting on the blood-alcohol level of Indigenous patients. The BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres and the Metis Nation BC say Indigenous patients are often assumed to be intoxicated and, as a result, denied medical treatment. Nor are these complaints really new. Indeed, a November 2017 article in CMAJ (the Canadian Medical Association journal) began with these words: Racism in the Canadian health care system is endemic. And it concluded: Structural changes to the current system are urgently needed to address these failures. But the needed changes havent come. Poverty, lack of access and, tragically, racism still deny too many Indigenous people the standard of care other Canadians expect as their birthright. The Quebec government is, even now, investigating what went so badly wrong in that Joilette hospital. But a far broader, more comprehensive response is required. For that, Canadians should be able to rely on their federal government and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Whether through an inquiry or commission, those leaders need to take a hard look at whats happening to Indigenous people in our health care system. And they need to heal the racist wounds the system has inflicted. Australian Ambassador to Ghana H.E Andrew Gregory has charged government to enforce mining laws to ensure sustainable environment. He wants laws that bite hard to be enforced to sanitize the polluted water bodies and devastated land scattered across the country due to illegal mining. He explained Australia, the worlds 3rd largest producer of gold, has been successful in the precious metal business as a result of proper mining laws and close monitoring of mining activities. Speaking on Akoma FM, the Australian ambassador said Ghana must have strict laws to regulate the activities of mining. This will help streamline operations of illegal mining, he stressed, citing an Australian case study. You cannot go about illegal mining to derail the environment in Australia. The proceeds from the minerals are used to fund schools, hospitals and other developmental projects. He further explained that Ghana must protect its land and water bodies. He also touched on child labor in mining areas and its bitter repercussions. It is bad for children to work at mining sites because they will be exposed to deadly chemicals such as mercury used for galamsey. Source: 3news.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 Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 14:00:36|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Small motors made by China have helped villagers in the mountainous Duab village in Khinjan district of the northern Baghlan province in Afghanistan build a small hydropower power plant. As a result, villagers have replaced lanterns with electric bulbs to light their homes. Afghanistan has imported power from neighboring countries, including Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Iran to overcome the power shortage. According to the spokesman for the state-owned power company Breshna Sherkat, Afghanistan needs 7,500 megawatts of power. But currently, the country only has a capacity of 1,450 megawatts, of which 80 percent is imported. To make up for the power shortage, many villages use simple power-producing equipment over the years to generate electricity through hydro and solar energy. Before getting into the problems associated with mail-in ballots, let's address a basic issue of thought. The issue has to do with the old idea that "you can't prove a negative." Anyone who's spent any time in "higher education" is apt to have heard that old truism. But is it true? This kid would have to say it depends on the negative. If a negative statement is big or broad enough, it may indeed be unprovable. Consider this statement from Woody Allen's 1980 dramedy Stardust Memories: "I can prove that if there's life anywhere else in the universe, they will have a Marxist economy." That's not a negative statement. But proving it is out of the question, as is proving its negation (i.e., they will not have a Marxist economy). We haven't even established a colony on the Moon, so we can't very well check out the entire universe for Marxist economies. Since no physical evidence can be adduced for such assertions, the only proof available would be some a priori argument. But that's not gonna fly with most folks; they'd want some "hard" evidence. On the other hand, if a negative statement is narrow and specific enough, I'd aver that it's quite possible to prove it. For instance, say you're sipping vino between acts at the opera, and your wife asks you if you like the (proverbial) little black dress on the sexy gal across the lobby. You take a look and immediately tell your wife: That's no lady, dear. All you'd need to prove your negative statement in a court of law is a DNA sample exhibiting Y chromosomes. (Drag queens and transsexuals like opera, too, dontcha know.) Here's the Wikipedia disambiguation page for "proving a negative." The first item on the list points to a short segment on proving a negative that includes this: "Claiming that it is impossible to prove a negative is a pseudologic, because there are many proofs that substantiate negative claims in mathematics, science, and economics[.]" What has occasioned this dive into "proofs" is a short comment to a recent article of mine. It came from one "mydlowec," which I assume is a nom de guerre. Anyway, here's the comment in its entirety: "... there is 'no evidence' that election fraud does not occur." You would think a computer programmer of all people would know basic logic dictates one cannot prove a negative. The commenter Questioning replied thus: "Duh! That was his point." Thank you, Questioning, for defending me. But that wasn't exactly my point; maybe I should have developed it a bit more. (For more on negation, read "Fun with Negation." It has links to two books that you can download for free, one by a Marxist.) In any event, to what law of "basic logic" could Mr. mydlowec be referring? In his readable and enjoyable 2005 paper "Thinking Tools: You Can Prove a Negative," philosophy professor Steven D. Hales tells us: "Among professional logicians, guess how many think that you can't prove a negative? That's right: zero. Yes, Virginia, you can prove a negative, and it's easy, too." (Who said logicians aren't any fun?) I think I've pretty well proven that you can prove a negative. So we can now move on to the divisive subject of mail-in ballots. What sparked mydlowec's comment was the third paragraph of my article, and here's most of it: The reason that some ... contend that there's "no evidence" for widespread election fraud is because it's a debate tactic, an attempt to put those who make the opposite claim in the position of having to disprove the experts' claim. But two can play that game, for there is "no evidence" that election fraud does not occur, and that each ballot was freely cast by an eligible voter who voted only once. Why is evidence expected for one claim but not for its opposite? My point here was that there's no way (using our current election systems) to know the exact extent of any fraud that might occur in our elections for federal office. There's no way to prove what the legitimate vote counts are. This has always been the case, regardless of whether voting is mail-in or in-person. The reason for this is that most election "security" relies on voter registration. So once an ineligible gets on a registry, he can vote. But it's worse than that because elections can be stolen by ballot-harvesters and others who "stuff the ballot box" with fraudulent ballots that they themselves fill in. When such votes go into the hopper, it's over. I believe that this is not due to stupidity but is by design; it's deliberate. The "powers that be," mostly on the Democrat side, simply want to be able to continue stealing elections, and their latest way to ensure that is universal mail-in ballots. The problem in depending on registration systems is that the states' registries are irredeemably messed up. They contain dead people, nonexistent people, pets, duplicates, foreigners, etc. One feature of the reform that I've been advocating lately is that it obviates state voter registries. With my little reform, everyone could vote regardless of whether or not he registered, and the fraudulent votes would all be detected...on the back end, after everyone has voted. The systems we've been using have their "safeguards" on the front end i.e., registration. But that's not good enough; we also need back-end vetting of the ballots. That requires "linkage" on the ballot to the voter who cast it. The barcode on the ballot isn't sufficient; the SSN is what's needed. If the electorate is really exercised about the integrity of our elections, people should demand that Congress "take over" all elections for federal officials and impose a single standard and technology on all the states for conducting those elections. If Congress would also require the voter to enter his SSN on the ballot, voting by mail could be made more secure. But in-person voting is still superior. Voting by mail is a type of remote voting. The problems with remote voting should be obvious. For one thing, with remote voting, it becomes far easier for one to sell one's vote, which is a crime. Also, one can be coerced to vote for a candidate not of one's choosing, also a crime. And remote voting leaves an election especially vulnerable to ballot boxstuffing. For these and several other reasons, this writer suggests that we restart the federal election and require voters to come to the polls to vote. There's simply too much about mail-in voting that is fraudulent or criminal. As for the Wuhan virus, Dr. Fauci recently said in-person voting can be safe. To return to the notion that "one cannot prove a negative": Proving that fraud did not occur in an election (especially the popular election for president conducted by more than 50 state and territorial operations all using different standards and technologies) is one of those negatives that cannot be proven, at least with our current election systems. For a free people, that just isn't good enough. Jon N. Hall of ULTRACON OPINION is a programmer from Kansas City. (The following video is set to play for exactly three minutes. However, if the uploader takes it down again, you can also watch it at Fox News by skipping forward to the 28:30 point, though you'll have to sit through a commercial.) Image: Tom Arthur via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to come face-to-face during the 12th summit of the Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa (BRICS) grouping to be held virtually on November 17 via video conference. This is also set to be the first virtual multilateral meeting to be joined by the two leaders since the border standoff in Ladakh in May. Indias foreign ministers and defence ministers have participated in other meetings that featured their Chinese counterparts in recent weeks. The BRICS Summit will focus on further strengthening cooperation among the member states amid the Covid-19 crisis, according to a formal announcement on Monday from Russia, the current chair of the grouping. The theme for the meeting will be BRICS partnership for global stability, shared security and innovative growth. In May, Russia postponed the BRICS Summit amid Covid-19 pandemic. The Summit was supposed to take place in St Petersburg, Russia, along with a meeting of the heads of state council of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) during July 21-23. Russia, the current chair of the BRICS, had been keen on hosting the leaders of the five countries but several members had expressed apprehensions about holding an actual summit given the risk of infections, people familiar with developments said on condition of anonymity. The Russian side formally announced on Monday that the BRICS Summit will be held virtually on November 17 with the theme of BRICS partnership for global stability, shared security and innovative growth. Despite the current global situation due to the spread of the Coronavirus infection, the activities under the Russian BRICS chairmanship in 2020 are carried out in a consistent manner, said Anton Kobyakov, adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin and executive secretary of the organising committee to prepare and support Russias SCO presidency in 2019-20 and BRICS chairmanship in 2020. Also read: China cant get the better of India in any conflict, were fully capable - IAF chief Since January 2020, more than 60 events have been organised, including via videoconferencing. The BRICS Summit will be the jewel-in-the-crown event of the Russian BRICS chairmanship which will provide an impetus for further strengthening cooperation with our partners to ensure the well-being of the BRICS countries, he said. Russia has focused on multifaceted cooperation between the BRICS nations to contribute to raising living standards and quality of life, the official statement said. During 2020, the five countries in the grouping continued their close strategic partnership on three major pillars - peace and security, economy and finance, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, it added. Russia has also helped facilitate meetings between India and China, such as the foreign and defence ministers meetings on the sidelines of the SCO meet in Moscow last month. The meeting of external affairs minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Moscow led to a five-point roadmap for taking forward disengagement and de-escalation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). A meeting of the BRICS foreign ministers last month had expressed concern on violence and conflicts in different parts of the world and said such situations should be resolved peacefully through political dialogue. The joint statement issued after the virtual meeting of the foreign ministers didnt refer to any particular conflict. The grouping has a convention of not taking up bilateral issues between its members. Sen. Pat Toomey (R., Pa.), joined by his family, announces he won't seek reelection or run for governor during a news conference Monday in Bethlehem. Read more BETHLEHEM, Pa. U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey announced Monday that he wont run for reelection or governor in 2022, sending shockwaves through the Pennsylvania political establishment and depriving Republicans of their best-known candidate in the competitive elections that will follow this years presidential race. Toomey said his decision, first reported Sunday by The Inquirer, was personal and not political. He noted that by the time his current term ends, he will have spent 18 of the previous 24 years in elected office, and said he wants to spend more time with his family. He said he would complete his Senate term, which will run through early 2023. Representing the people of Pennsylvania this big, beautiful, complicated diverse state has been an extraordinary, amazing honor, it still is, and its been by far the highlight of my professional life, Toomey told reporters gathered in Bethlehem for his announcement. Im looking forward to more time back at home," he said, later adding, Eighteen years is a long period of time in a persons life. Asked whether he thought he could have won another statewide race in 2022, Toomey noted his record of success in several tough House and Senate elections. I think if I decided to run, I would have, I would have won again, he said. He would have faced stiff opposition, however: Progressive activists have made Toomey a top target since 2016, and were gearing up to block him in his next election. Even so, Republicans were ready to support him, and his departure takes Pennsylvanias most prominent sitting Republican out of the mix, raising questions about who will represent the party on the ballot in 2022 and opening opportunities for Democrats eyeing the governors office and a swing Senate seat. Toomeys decision leaves Pennsylvania Republicans without a favorite in key 2022 contests, likely leading to sprawling primaries for governor and Senate, while boosting Democratic hopes in both races. Pennsylvanias Senate seat is expected to be one of a few that determines control of the chamber. For now, Toomey, 58, reaffirmed his support Monday for President Donald Trumps reelection, and for his partys push to confirm Trumps nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court before Election Day. And although he plans to leave public life after he leaves office, he said he is cautiously optimistic that Republicans will hold the Senate in the Nov. 3 election, and that he will become chairman of the Senate banking committee. Toomey, a former Wall Street banker, talked about several conservative initiatives he hopes he can push through if that happens. Toomeys surprise announcement came at an already tumultuous moment for Republicans in Washington. Trump had been hospitalized with the coronavirus. Three GOP senators have also contracted the virus, which could hamper the partys push to confirm Barrett. And Trump and fellow Republicans face increasingly dire poll numbers, threatening their hold on both the White House and Senate. Toomey, who rose to the Senate during the 2010 Tea Party wave, chased then-Sen. Arlen Specter out of the GOP with a challenge from the right. He was a staunch conservative on most policy questions, with a particular focus on fiscal issues. But while pulling his party rightward on issues such as tax cuts and the Affordable Care Act, Toomey largely avoided culture wars and presented himself as a mild-mannered Republican willing to compromise on certain issues, including gun laws. That helped him eke out statewide victories with support from moderate voters. Toomey was widely expected to run for governor and to be the GOP front-runner for that position. Instead, his decision to pass has thrown open both the 2022 gubernatorial and Senate races, inviting a slew of people in both parties to evaluate their chances. The timing was surprising: Most political insiders expected Toomey to wait to see the results of the 2020 election and the political landscape before announcing his choice. But he said that people had been offering to help his next campaign, and that he wanted to be honest with them. Once I reached the decision, I need to be candid with them, and I feel like I should be candid with everybody, Toomey said. I made a decision, its not going to change, so I want to let everybody know. READ MORE: Sources told The Inquirer over the weekend Toomey wouldn't run again Toomey spoke in the studio of PBS39, a public television affiliate with hallways adorned with Sesame Street memorabilia. His wife and three children stood behind him, all wearing face masks. Pressed repeatedly on the timing of the announcement, Toomey said he made the decision recently and that Trumps COVID-19 diagnosis played absolutely no role whatsoever. He said that his family had made a lot of unseen sacrifices over the years that allowed him to pursue a life of public service, and that he looked forward to more time at home. Asked whether disagreements with Trump were a factor, Toomey said they have a constructive working relationship. I decided early on Im not responsible for the presidents Twitter feeds, he said. I am not responsible for editing his comments in any given medium. I work with this president on a regular basis. ... And when Ive disagreed with him, which I have, I havent been bashful about saying so. But that has nothing to do with this decision. Many expected Toomey to leave the Senate after his term ends. He supports term limits and had previously suggested he was unlikely to run again. But his decision to pass on the governors race, too, stunned political insiders Toomeys time in elected office began with a U.S. House stint from 1999 to 2005, followed by a Senate term that began in 2011. In between, he was still in public life, he noted Monday, leading the conservative free-market group the Club for Growth and running for the Senate in 2010, after his 2004 bid fell just short in the Republican primary. At the Club for Growth he targeted so-called RINOS, Republicans in Name Only, for being insufficiently conservative. But he later sought to reach out to swing voters by pitching himself as an independent voice. He won heavyweight Senate races in 2010 and 2016, though narrowly. He expressed confidence he could do it again, but might have faced a far different political landscape in 2022. Since 2016, progressive activists in Pennsylvania have made Toomey a lightning rod, protesting outside his offices and hounding him over his votes and support for Trump. He would have faced much more vehement and energized opposition in 2022. READ MORE: This group protested Sen. Toomey every Tuesday for four years. Hes leaving politics, but they say the work isnt over. Toomey also may have struggled to re-create his 2016 victory, when he held down his losses in the Philadelphia suburbs, far outperforming Trump there. Since then, the GOP support in that area has cratered. Meanwhile, Toomeys buttoned-up style and personality may not have been able to draw the same level of working-class, rural support Trump has to make up the difference. Toomey allies argued that he could have won, and that his approach would still fare better in swing areas than Trumps. But they said he wanted to see more of his children, ages 10, 19, and 20, and that gridlock in Washington was a concern. Its frustrating in D.C. right now, said Josh Novotney, a longtime Toomey political adviser from Philadelphia. Hes not the type of guy to go down there just to accrue seniority. Hes the type of guy who wants to actually get something done." Toomey said his priorities for the next two years include making some of the recent tax code changes permanent and pursuing free trade agreements with other parts of the world, such as countries in Asia and the European Union (something that may put the free-market-supporting senator at odds with Trump). He also wants to expand investment opportunities for middle-income families, he said. Turkey plans to deploy a third drillship to explore for natural resources in the Black Sea, its energy minister Fatih Donmez told Anadolu Agency in an interview on Saturday, while tensions in the Mediterranean over Turkeys gas drilling campaign seem to subside. Turkeys third drillship, Kanuni, will begin exploration in the Black Sea in early 2021 and will operate alongside the drillship Fatih, which made earlier this year a natural gas discovery in the Black Sea, which Turkey says is its largest-ever gas find. Meanwhile, the European Union (EU) is trying to de-escalate the tension in the eastern Mediterranean, where Turkey has been drilling for gas in waters encroaching on what Cyprus and Greece claim as their territorial waters. Tensions between EU members Greece and Cyprus on the one hand, and Turkey on the other, flared up again in recent months after Turkey resumed drilling and exploration for oil and gas in the eastern Mediterranean in waters that Greece and Cyprus consider part of their territorial waters. The heightened tension in the eastern Mediterranean and the growing rift between Greece and Turkey, who are also both part of the NATO alliance, has had the EU consider possible sanctions on Turkey over the drilling in the eastern Mediterranean. According to Refinitiv Eikon data reported by Reuters on Monday, a Turkish exploration vessel has left the area in which it was operating off Cyprus and returned to Turkeys coasta move that the EU welcomed and said would ease the tensions in the eastern Mediterranean. Last week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that The tensions in the Mediterranean have been very high because of Turkey's drilling activities in the Cypriot Exclusive Economic Zone and exploratory activities in Greek waters. It is good that there is now a reliable dialogue between Turkey and Greece that has begun. We therefore expect that Turkey from now on abstains from unilateral actions, von der Leyen said last Thursday, adding that in case Ankara renews such actions the EU will use all its instruments and options available. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: COHOES, N.Y. Cohoes City School District Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Spring has resigned with the intent to retire from her position. Her retirement is effective Dec. 1. In a letter sent to staff, Spring indicated that it was her intention to retire at the end of the school year. Yet, citing the districts potential budget shortfall due to a reduction in state funding, Spring explained her decision to retire now is part of a cost-saving measure for the school district. I am proud of what we have accomplished as a school district these past 5 1/2 years. I thank the Board of Education and the community for granting me the privilege to have led the district. The students and staff of Cohoes will always hold a very special place in my heart, Spring wrote. Succeeding Superintendent Robert Libby, Spring was hired as Cohoes Superintendent of Schools in February 2015 and began working in April of that year. She came to the district after serving as principal of New Hartford Senior High School in New Hartford, N.Y. Before that, Spring was a principal in the Utica City School District for five years, as well as an assistant principal for two years. Springs distinguished background also includes being a Fulbright Scholar at Copernicus University in Poland, along with her studies in Spain and Guatemala. Spring holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the Esteves School of Education at the Sage Graduate School and a Certificate of Advanced Study from the State University of New York at Cortland. In addition, Spring earned a masters degree in education from Boston University and a bachelors degree in marketing management from Syracuse University. Id like to personally recognize Dr. Springs efforts to save critical positions in the district, Board of Education President Matt Nolin remarked. On behalf of the entire Board of Education, I want to thank Dr. Spring for her dedication and service to Cohoes. Were grateful for her tireless work in preparing our students for success in tomorrows world. We congratulate Dr. Spring and wish her the best in retirement, Nolin added. Board of Education members plan to discuss the next steps for the district at their live-streamed meeting at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 7. At a closed-door meeting at the World Trade Organisation (WTO), China has accused the United States and India of breaking global trading rules over bans on Chinese-made apps, including TikTok and WeChat. China took to the floor at the Council for Trade in Services meeting on Friday to accuse the pair of taking measures that are clearly inconsistent with WTO rules, restrict cross-border trading services and violate the basic principles and objectives of the multilateral trading system, according to a Geneva trade official who was privy to the discussions. US President Donald Trump has targeted the popular apps with a series of orders that aim to ban US entities from doing business with them or downloading them from American app stores. In addition, the Trump administration wants to force the sale of TikTok to a US buyer by November 14. Get the latest insights and analysis from our Global Impact newsletter on the big stories originating in China. Washington has claimed the apps collect data that threatens to allow the Chinese Communist Party access to Americans personal and proprietary information potentially allowing China to track the locations of Federal employees and contractors, build dossiers of personal information for blackmail, and conduct corporate espionage. In June, India banned TikTok and more than 50 other Chinese-made apps, including WeChat and Baidu Maps, after its military clashed with Chinese soldiers at their disputed border in the Himalayas. New Delhi claimed the apps were stealing and surreptitiously transmitting users data in an unauthorised manner to servers which have locations outside India. The growing tech saga sparked a lengthy exchange at the council, during which China said there was no evidence to support the pairs claims and that TikToks data collection was standard practise for thousands of apps worldwide. The US said at the meeting its action against Chinese apps was in defence of its national security. The WTOs General Agreement on Services allows for such action in cases relating to the supply of services as carried out directly or indirectly for the purpose of provisioning a military establishment. Story continues However, China argued that Washingtons actions were a clear abuse of the relevant articles. US-China tech war: battle over semiconductors, Taiwan stokes trade feud India pointed to Chinas own record on foreign investment and foreign apps and websites, saying that China should first reflect on its own transparency record, as well as on its long-standing reluctance to fully open to foreign trading services, according to the official. Experts said that while the US and Indian policies might flout the rules, either nation would likely counter-sue if China were to bring a formal action because of its use of the Great Firewall, an elaborate internet censorship system that blocks foreign websites. However, Beijings success in a recent WTO case over Trumps Section 301 tariffs may have emboldened it to bring a case nonetheless. At the meeting, China said that it is does not prohibit foreign apps and websites in its territory on a blanket basis, the official said. Its a new era and I think theres an interest for the WTO, and its members, to clarify the scope and boundaries of national security Julien Chaisse [China] not doing anything is also risky. And China did take action against the US on tariffs and did win, said Julien Chaisse, a trade professor at City University of Hong Kong. These national security exceptions were never used for years. Its a new era and I think theres an interest for the WTO, and its members, to clarify the scope and boundaries of national security. The US has cited national security for numerous trade policies in recent years, including the imposition of tariffs on steel and aluminium producing countries, for which a WTO Panel was established in January 2019, sponsored by Mexico and joined by 30 other members, including China, Taiwan and the European Union. After the US eliminated the duties, the case was mutually withdrawn. After the US eliminated the duties on steel and aluminium, the case was mutually withdrawn. Bryan Mercurio, a trade law professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, said it was surprising that the US and India had not yet filed a case against China in this regard. India is absolutely right to question Chinas own transparency and if it is not a blanket ban on foreign apps, whats the reason for it? Bryan Mercurio Maybe they will see what Chinas arguments are here and if China brings a case theyll bring the exact same case against China, he said. India is absolutely right to question Chinas own transparency and if it is not a blanket ban on foreign apps, whats the reason for it? I am guessing China would also go to a national security argument in defence. Alex Capri, a senior fellow at the National University of Singapore, said Chinas rhetoric in Geneva fed into an ongoing massive public relations campaign for its form of techno-diplomacy, because Chinese tech companies are in an existential crisis. China continues to play the multilateral card, at least in terms of the optics. It is a similar tone to the one Xi Jinping struck at the UN, in which China is painted as the main sponsor of the multilateral system, Capri said. However I agree with India, China is not a market economy. More from South China Morning Post: This article TikTok, WeChat bans by US and India broke WTO rules, China says first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2020. In a new bioRxiv* preprint paper, researchers from the Imperial College London, King's College London, and the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom show that the furin cleavage site of SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein represents a key determinant for transmission among humans, as it substantially facilitates replication in airway cells - opening the door for the development of novel therapeutics. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and other coronaviruses enter host cells by utilizing their spike glycoprotein. This structure consists of two subunits; S1 is a receptor-binding subunit that attaches to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACD2), while S2 is a membrane fusion subunit that confers the viral entry into the cell. Akin to a myriad of other enveloped virus glycoproteins, SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein is synthesized as a precursor that is subsequently cleaved in order to be able to exert fusion activity with the human cell membrane. Depending on the exact sequence of spike glycoprotein at the S1/S2 junction, this cleavage occurs during the trafficking of the spike in the producer cell either by host furin-like enzymes or by serine proteases at the cell surface (such as the transmembrane protease serine 2 or TMPRSS2). The presence of a furin cleavage site at the S1/S2 junction is not unusual in human coronaviruses. More specifically, two of the four seasonal coronaviruses that are renowned for their efficient transmission in humans hCoV-HKU1 and hCoV-OC43 both contain furin cleavage sites. In contrast, MERS-CoV contains a suboptimal dibasic furin cleavage site. On the other hand, the other two human seasonal coronaviruses (hCoV-229E and hCoV-NL63) do not contain furin cleavage sites in their spike glycoproteins, apparently without any loss of transmissibility. Hence, furin-mediated cleavage of spike glycoprotein is not an absolute prerogative for effective respiratory spread among humans. So what is the situation with SARS-CoV-2? The insertion of four amino acids in its spike glycoprotein resulted in a suboptimal furin cleavage site (CS). However, a research group led by Dr. Thomas P. Peacock from the Imperial College London in the UK proposed a mechanism by which type of furin cleavage site is actually an advantage to the virus in the human airway, enabling successful human-to-human transmission. The SARS-CoV-2 spike contains a suboptimal polybasic furin cleavage site at the S1/S2 site. (A) Amino acid sequence alignment of coronavirus furin cleavage site mutants used in this study. Mutants with potential S1/S2 furin cleavage sites shown in shades of orange while mutants without furin cleavage sites shown in shades of blue. (B) Syncytia formation due to overexpression of different coronavirus spike proteins in Vero E6 cells. The percentage indicates the proportion of nuclei in each field which have formed clear syncytia. Statistical significance determined by one-way ANOVA with multiple comparisons against SARS-CoV-2 WT. **** indicates P value < 0.0001. (C) Western blot analysis of concentrated lentiviral pseudotypes with different coronavirus spike proteins. Levels of lentiviral p24 antigen shown as a loading control. Lentiviral pseudotypes labelled furin inhibitor were generated in the presence of 5 M Decanoyl-RVKR766 CMK, added 3 hours post-transfection. (D) Western blot analysis of concentrated WT and CS SARS-CoV-2 viruses. Levels of nucleocapsid (N) protein shown as loading control. Generating spike mutants In this study, the researchers used a combination of lentiviral SARS-CoV-2 pseudotypes harboring spike glycoprotein cleavage site mutations, as well as Vero passaged SARS-CoV-2 virus variants in order to investigate the molecular mechanism by which the polybasic cleavage site of the virus facilitates organized and efficient entry into lung cells. More specifically, the significance of the spike glycoprotein polybasic cleavage site of SARS-CoV-2 was studied by generating a number of spike mutants that were predicted to regulate the efficiency of furin cleavage and testing them in cell cultures and laboratory animals (ferrets). All human samples used in this extensive research project were obtained from the Imperial College Healthcare Tissue Bank. Finally, the ability of ferret sera to neutralize wild type SARS-CoV-2 virus was appraised by using a neutralization assay on the Vero E6 cell line (i.e., kidney epithelial-derived cells commonly employed for viral propagation). Deciphering efficient viral transmission "We show that pre-cleavage of the spike during viral egress enhanced entry of progeny virions into TMPRSS2-expressing cells such as those abundant in respiratory tissue", study authors explain their main study finding. In other words, the polybasic insertion to the S1/S2 cleavage site gives SARS-CoV-2 a significant fitness advantage in TMPRSS2 expressing cells, which is likely a key prerequisite for efficient transmission of the virus between humans. This was confirmed in animal studies where, in contrast with wild type SARS-CoV-2, a virus with a deleted furin cleavage site did not replicate to high titers in the upper respiratory tract of ferrets, and also did not transmit to cohoused sentinel animals (which is completely in agreement with similar experiments conducted in hamsters). Proposing novel treatment options These results unveil TMPRSS2 as a potential target for drugs and novel therapeutics. And while inhibition of TMPRSS2 protease activity does not prevent other infection paths that can occur via the endosome, this protease is indispensable to viral replication in airway cells. "We have shown in this study that the protease inhibitor, camostat, is highly efficient at blocking SARS-CoV-2 replication in human airway cells, and we note that clinical trials are ongoing", study authors emphasize implications of their bioRxiv paper. This study also has methodological value, as it confirms the impediments of relying on the Vero E6 cell line as a path towards developing drug classes that serve as entry inhibitors since they do not accurately mirror the favored entry mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 into human airway cells. In any case, the authors conclude the paper by suggesting that a furin cleavage site in the SARS lineage of viruses is a cause of concern. Therefore, monitoring wild coronaviruses is a pivotal step in predicting and intercepting potential future pandemics. *Important Notice bioRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. The World Socialist Web Site is publishing messages of support for Dr. Joseph Scalice from throughout the world. Dr. Scalice, who has come under attack from the Philippine Stalinists for his powerful lecture, First as Tragedy, Second as Farce: Marcos, Duterte and the Communist Parties of the Philippines, which examined the support given by the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), and the various organizations that follow its political line, to authoritarian Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in 2016. Acutely sensitive to the criticism of the CPP, its founder Jose Maria Sison, without a shred of evidence, has denounced Dr. Scalice as a paid CIA agent and an informer for Duterte. Dr. Scalice, through the establishment of the historical record about the betrayals of the CPP, has done a service to the working class in the Philippines and internationally. We urge our readers to come to the defence of Dr. Scalice, including by sending statements of support to the WSWS opposing the slanderous attack on him by the CPP and sharing his lecture widely. Hero Daquis, farmer, carpenter, community skills and livelihood projects coordinator in the Philippines: I strongly believe that the lectures of Dr. Joseph Scalice are established with strong and undeniable facts. His evaluation of the character and persona of Joma Sison as a liar is accurate. Early in his life, it is striking to know that Dr. Scalice learned to breathe, smell and feel the oppression and struggles of the Filipino masses; he speaks fluently the language of the suffering of the Filipino people. I want to admonish as many people as I can to believe in Dr. Joseph Scalice. We must not waver in supporting him against the likes of Sison, who likes to be remembered as an infallible being. But Sison could never get away from historical truth and from Dr. Scalice. Sisons fear of Dr. Scalices truth is so evident that he became very much disturbed and now resorts to mustering forces to harm Dr. Scalice. We can expect truth to shine further in the lectures of Dr. Scalice because he is a hardworking, dedicated searcher and passionate student of truth. His conscientious, honest, and brave accounting of history is a magnificent and powerful weapon in exposing the unfruitful works of Sisons dark mind. Joni, student in the Philippines: It was disappointing for me, as a reader and an audience who is only searching for truth and knowledge in this political spectacle, to see shallow responses from the left and Mr. Sison towards Dr. Scalices lectureits as if Im seeing Duterte trolls at work. I was expecting an academic discourse from both sides, but it was only Dr. Scalice who presented himself with scholarly ideas and manifestations backed by evidence. If the left and Mr. Sison truly want to educate people and want people to engage in national politics, they should rethink their methods of discourse by providing sound arguments supported by facts, and veer away from trollish talk as it does not do anything of significance to the conversation, and, frankly, it looks ridiculous and unintelligent. Mar, a teacher in Spain: A scholar knows the reach of his ideas including the people who might be overwhelmed by the truth of his scholarship. His findings are compelling and authoritative that the CPP leadership subjects him to ridicule ad hominem and ignores the truth of his conclusion. Mr. Scalices standing for the truth, even if it puts his life in danger, is heroic. In their heyday, the groups members were untouchables, but Mr. Scalices scholarly assertions just released the gadfly, which pain those who cannot endure its sting. His researches are valuable contributions to deconstruct the mainstream narrative in Philippine history about the struggles of the workers and the leadership of the CPPone that negates a messianic purpose and one that unveils their folly. As Manitoba recorded its 23rd death caused by COVID-19 and announced 36 new cases of the virus Sunday, some people spent hours waiting to be tested. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 4/10/2020 (475 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. As Manitoba recorded its 23rd death caused by COVID-19 and announced 36 new cases of the virus Sunday, some people spent hours waiting to be tested. By early afternoon, Winnipeggers were being turned away from some testing sites, while others faced long lineups and no guarantee they'd be tested before closing time. A new mobile testing site at 1181 Portage Ave., which opened last week, saw light traffic early after it opened Sunday morning, but it reached maximum capacity shortly after 1 p.m., and was shut down to incoming drivers nearly three hours before it was set to close for the day. Crowd-sourced average wait times at COVID-19 testing sites Click to Expand As of 4 p.m. Sunday 604 St. Mary's Road: 3 hours 1284 Main St.: 1 hour 2735 Pembina Highway: 1 hour 1181 Portage Ave: One user reported being turned away See our crowd-sourced testing site wait times and report your own. The MPI drive-thru testing site at 1284 Main St. began redirecting people around 2 p.m., as a double lane of more than a dozen vehicles snaked around the building. Staff on site didn't answer questions about wait times, but before the drive-thru was closed to new traffic, drivers were handed a list of addresses for other testing sites, and were told they had no guarantee of being tested that afternoon if they chose to wait in line. Jen Zoratti | Next A weekly look towards a post-pandemic future delivered to your inbox every Wednesday. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. On Sunday, provincial public-health officials announced a man in his 50s is Manitoba's 23rd COVID-19-related fatality. They also warned of potential exposure to the virus in Little Grand Rapids First Nation, where several people tested positive after attending the community's recreation centre from Sept. 24 to 27. It's the second batch of confirmed positive cases of the virus in a Manitoba First Nations community, following positive results last weekend for a family in York Factory First Nation. After 19 new cases were reported at Little Grand Rapids, that community is now in lockdown, with public gatherings prohibited and restrictions in place that correspond with the red/critical phase in the provincial government's pandemic response system. New confirmed cases totalled 36 on Sunday, but four previously announced cases were determined to be false positives, which brings the total number of active cases in Manitoba to 696. Most of the cases announced Sunday 23 are in Winnipeg. Seven are in the Southern health region; five in Interlake-Eastern, and one in Prairie Mountain health region. On Saturday, 2,103 COVID-19 tests were completed across the province. Public-health officials also warned Sunday that passengers on an Air Canada flight from Vancouver to Winnipeg may have been exposed to the virus on Sept. 27. They're requiring passengers who were on flight 296 and sat in rows 27 to 31 to self-isolate for two weeks. Others who were on the flight but didn't sit in those rows don't need to self-isolate unless they develop symptoms, according to a provincial news release. Meanwhile, several Winnipeg restaurants are reporting patrons may have been exposed to the virus. People should monitor for symptoms (and self-isolate and get tested if they have symptoms) after visiting Hooters Restaurant at 1501 St. Matthews Ave. on Sept. 24 from 4 to 11 p.m.; Bourbon Billiards at 241 Vaughan St. on Sept. 25 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.; Earls Polo Park at 1455 Portage Ave. on Sept. 25 from 10 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.; Montanas Polo Park at 665 Empress St. on Sept. 25 from 9 to 10 p.m.; and Crspy Bnch on 806 Sargent Ave. on Sept. 26 from 11 a.m. until noon. katie.may@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @thatkatiemay New Delhi, Oct 6 : Hyderabad based Magfast Beverages has won the battle against beverages MNC, Pepsico for the use of trademark, Mountain Dew. Magfast Beverages Chairman Syed Ghaziuddin said that they started selling packaged drinking water named 'Mountain Dew in the year 2000. He said that in 2003, Pepsico launched a soft drink under the same name. Now, the court has dismissed their claims, he said. After a 15 year legal battle, Hyderabad court has dismissed the suit filed by Pepsico and rejected the claim on the trans border reputation and infringement claim. This contest is a great opportunity to show our appreciation, and to reward these heroes with a trip to the worlds premier wellness destination. The challenges of 2020 have shone a light on the heroes hiding in plain sight all around us. Essential workersteachers, healthcare workers, grocery store clerks, firefighters, mail carriers, and many othershave risked their well-being to keep our worlds turning. And for that, they deserve something incredible. Thats why the Tourism Authority of Thailand has partnered with Matador Network to award 5 essential workers the trip of a lifetime. Winners will receive round-trip premium economy air transportation (where available) to Thailand for themselves and a guest, along with 5 nights boutique hotel accommodation. The contest is open to residents of the US (excluding Florida) who are 18 years or older, and can be entered here: https://matadornetwork.com/read/thailand-gives-back-heroes-2020/. Contest entrants are asked to nominate their hero: an essential worker whom they feel deserves the prize, supporting their nomination with text, photos, and audio or video clips as desired. Essential workers are encouraged to nominate themselves to win. We are so grateful to all the essential workers out there, said Ross Borden, Matador Networks CEO. This contest and partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand is a great opportunity to show our appreciation, and to reward these heroes with a trip to the worlds premier wellness destination. Full prize details and the Official Rules of the contest can be accessed from the entry page: https://matadornetwork.com/read/thailand-gives-back-heroes-2020/. About Matador Matador Network is a digital media company created by travelers, for travelers. Globally, we inspire tens of millions of people per month across our platforms with our travel article features, city guides, and original video content. We envision a world where travel is a transformative experience that enables us to find the humanity in each other, everywhere. It has the power to connect, heal, and inspire us to plan new adventures that have a positive impact on the world. Learn more at https://matadornetwork.com/. About the Tourism Authority of Thailand Located just 15 degrees north of the equator, Amazing Thailand is one of the Southeast Asias premier travel destinations and home to well-known tourist locations including the capital city of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Ko Samui, and Krabi. Known as the land of smiles, Thailand features some of the worlds finest luxury hotels and resorts, and offers visitors a rich tapestry of exotic architecture, culture, cuisines, traditions, and adventures. To learn more about the Tourism Authority of Thailand, visit https://thailandinsider.com/. New Delhi: Three Indian Coast Guard (ICG) ships are escorting damaged crude tanker MT New Diamond, as it is being towed away from the Sri Lankan Coast to the Fujairah Port in the United Arab Emirates. The tanker which was rendered immobile or dead in the water after a severe blaze in the engine room is being towed by a team of salvors that have been arranged by the vessels owners. According to Marinetraffic.com, the MT New Diamond is a 20-year old Crude oil tanker that is 333 meters long and 60 meters wide, it was under charter by the Indian Oil Corporation. The tanker was carrying about 3 lakh metric tons of Kuwaiti export crude oil. From its current position off Dondra Head, which is the southernmost point of the Sri Lankan coast, very large crude carrier MT New Diamond is headed for Fujairah, the largest port on the Eastern seaboard of the UAE. As per the ICG, Pollution control vessels, Samudra Pavak and Sumdra Praheri with an onboard helicopter and ICSG Shaunak with pollution response gear have been deployed to escort MT New diamond, an undertow at high seas. Coast guard ships are meant to provide preventive pollution response cover in case of any oil leakage contingency during the passage of the vessel to Fujairah. With full cargo on-board and no propulsion of its own, the tanker is expected to take several weeks to reach its destination, given the drastic reduction in speed while being safely towed. On September 3, while bound for Paradip, Odisha, MT New Diamond had reported an onboard fire in the engine room, as it was transiting Sri Lankan waters. The Indian Coast Guard and their Sri Lankan counterparts and the respective Navies from the countries along with tug boats had joined the firefighting efforts. The ICG had mobilized seven ships and two aircraft for this operation and had provided necessary support to the Sri Lankan authorities. It took a mammoth effort spanning over a week to douse the blaze and ensure that there was no oil spill. Initially, it was said that an oil sheen was spotted, only to be later confirmed that it was from the engine room explosion and not from the cargo hold. The resultant sheen was cleared by the Coast guard by using pollution response equipment and oil spill dispersants. #Update Re-ignition of fire observed on Starboard (Right) side of #MTNewDiamond. Fire-fighting & boundary cooling efforts intensified to bring fire under control. Salvage Team has arrived at scene. Additional assets, salvage personnel & FF equipment also enroute.@SpokespersonMoD pic.twitter.com/NhOoUOLy2C SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) September 7, 2020 #Update#OnSceneCommander #INSSahyadri escorting #MTNewDiamond & monitoring situation. Ship towed 70 km away from Sri Lankan coast. Flames on superstructure & heavy smoke emanating from funnel. Tug Alp Winger handing over tow to Tug TTT1 & joining fire-fighting efforts. pic.twitter.com/rMVkt0lJw7 SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) September 5, 2020 The three lakh metric ton cargo of Kuwait crude being carried by vessel is intact, not a drop of it has leaked. Our ships are equipped and prepared to even contain and perform recovery operations even in the event of an unfortunate spill, Krishnaswamy Natarajan, Director General, Indian Coast Guard had said after the operation. Speaking of the challenges involved, he said that the ships and tugs are required to stay within a 10-15 meter distance from the burning vessel to fight the fire and conduct boundary cooling in tandem. There is a breach on the port side of the superstructure and the hull and the crack on the deck above the waterline. However, these breaches are not causing any entry of seawater, DG, Coast Guard had stated regarding the structural condition of the ship. The fire on the MT New Diamond was feared to be a major environmental disaster in the making, as the ship was carrying nearly 3 Lakh metric tons of Kuwaiti crude oil and a leak would have meant an unprecedented ecological catastrophe. A bilateral MoU between ICG and SLCG covers cooperation in the Marine pollution Response domain. The Indian Coast Guard is also the Competent National Authority under South Asian Co-operative for Environment Protection (SACEP) for responding and coordinating pollution response in South Asian Sea region. On completion of the firefighting operation, Vice Admiral Nishanta Ulugetenne, Commander of the Srilankan Navy conveyed his appreciation for Indian Coast Guards efforts in dousing the fire and neutralizing oil sheen, thereby averting a major disaster. Srinagar, October 5: A Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) has lost life in ceasefire violation (CFV) by Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) in Nowshera sector in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, the Indian Army said on Monday. Pakistani troops violated the ceasefire and resorted to heavy shelling with mortars along the LoC in Nowshera sector. The Indian Army said a befitting response was given. Pakistan Carried Out 3,186 Ceasefire Violations Along LoC in Jammu Region Till September 7, Says Government. Also Read | Terror Attack in Jammu and Kashmir: Two CRPF Jawans Martyred, 3 Injured After Terrorists Attack Road Opening Party at Pampore Bypass of Pulwama "At around 6.30 pm, Pakistan troops took to unprovoked firing with small firearms and intense shelling with mortars along the LoC in Nowshera Sector. The Indian Army is retaliating befittingly," Defence Ministry spokesman Colonel Devender Anand said. After violating the ceasefire on the LoC in Rajouri district, Pakistan also resorted to unprovoked firing and intense shelling along the LoC in Poonch district. Indian Army Soldier Succumbs After Being Injured in Ceasefire Violation by Pakistan in J&K's Rajouri. "After initiating ceasefire violation in Nowshera sector of Rajouri district at about 6.30 pm, Pakistan again initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation by firing with small arms and intense shelling with mortars along the LoC in Degwar sector of Poonch district at about 8 pm. In both the sectors, Indian army is retaliating befittingly," Colonel Devender Anand told IANS. Also Read | 'Indian Air Force is Ready For Any Possible Conflict Including Two-Front War', Says Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria Since the beginning of this year, Pakistan has violated the bilateral ceasefire agreement signed by the two countries in 1999. In over 3,190 such LoC ceasefire violations since January 2020, at least 24 civilians have been killed and 100 others injured. BigID, the leader in data discovery and intelligence for privacy, protection and perspective, today announced the addition of Ron Spratt as Senior Vice President of Sales for North America and Ben Kennedy as Area Vice President of Sales for the West. Both joined BigID from Informatica where they led the sector business into financial services. They bring deep data sales expertise and decades of experience to help meet the growing demand for BigIDs data discovery and data management capabilities. Ron Spratt joins BigID as the SVP of North America Sales, where he will be responsible for all field sales activities in the region. He brings over two decades of sales and leadership experience in enterprise software. Before joining BigID, Ron spent seven years at Informatica, where he led the financial services vertical sales team. Ron also spent time at several startups, including Prodea Software (acquired by Platinum Technology), Plumtree Software (went public in 2002, later acquired by BEA), OpenPages Corporation (acquired by IBM) and Paisley Consulting (acquired by Thomson Reuters). Ben Kennedy joins BigID as the companys new AVP of Sales, where he will be responsible for leading sales initiatives in the West United States. Ben brings over fifteen years of experience in enterprise software, having most recently spent time at Informatica leading their financial services vertical sales team. Ben has also worked at fintech startups Social Finance and Transmeta, and held senior sales positions at prominent technology companies like SoFi and Oracle. During his ten year career at Oracle, Ben also completed a two-year expatriate assignment to Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he led the development of an international sales hub. Especially in the wake of this years pandemic, we continue to see demand from financial institutions who need better visibility into their data to maintain compliance, minimize security risks and strengthen data governance initiatives, said Mike Trites, EVP of Global Sales at BigID. Ben and Ron bring vast knowledge and sales experience and will be integral in helping to further expand BigIDs presence in the US market. To learn more, please visit bigid.com/demo. About BigID: Based in New York, BigID uses advanced machine learning and identity intelligence to help enterprises better protect their customer and employee data at petabyte scale. Using BigID, enterprises can better safeguard and assure the privacy of their most sensitive data, reducing breach risk and enabling compliance with emerging data protection regulations like the EUs General Data Protection Regulation and California Consumer Privacy Act. BigID has raised $146 million in funding since its founding in 2016 and has been recognized for its privacy innovation as the 2018 RSA Conference Innovation Sandbox winner, a CB Insights 2018 Cyber Defender, Network Products Guide 2018 IT World Awards Hot Company of the Year winner, a 2019 InformationWeek Vendor to Watch, a 2019 Business Insider enterprise vendor to bet your career on, and a 2019 World Economic Forum Technology Pioneer. Contacts Leslie Schuman Mission North for BigID bigid@missionnorth.com Ritwika Mitra By Express News Service NEW DELHI: "Our child was raped and killed only because she was a Dalit. Our children have no safety here," said Ram Lal (name changed), the uncle of a 13-year-old girl who was raped and murdered in Uttar Pradesh's Lakhimpur Kheri in August. As nationwide outrage poured over the Hathras incident in which a 19-year-old girl died of injuries from the gangrape and brutal physical torture, families of victims of atrocities feel it is still a long way to justice. Experts observed dominant castes unleash violence on Dalits to wield power over them. It is also often linked with the social progress of Dalits, they said. "It is painful for us to describe the state the girl was found in," said Lal. The latest National Crime Records Bureau data show an increase of 7.3 per cent in crimes against scheduled caste people with 45,935 cases -- an increase from 42,793 cases registered in 2018. Uttar Pradesh alone accounts for over 25 per cent of the total cases by recording the highest number of atrocities against SC people in the country. The National Dalit Movement for Justice (NDMJ)-National Campaign of Dalit Human Rights (NCDHR) -- coalitions defending rights of Dalits -- said the recent rapes of Dalit girls in Lakhimpur Kheri, Hathras and Balrampur expose the existing situation of the lower caste in the country. ALSO READ | Hathras rape case: Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad demands Y-security for victim's family Vimal Thorat, academic and convener of NCDHR, pointed out the number of reported cases is an underestimation of the ground reality. There is a climate of hate against the marginalised in the country, she said. "Are Dalits being tortured for being empowered? The accused feel they will have impunity," Thorat said. Ram Dular, state coordinator, NDMJ-NCDHR, Uttar Pradesh said the grievous nature of the gangrapes expose the intersectional areas of caste and gender with Dalit women bearing the brunt of systemic violence perpetrated by people from the upper caste. A recent study by Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative and Association for Advocacy and Legal Initiatives showed police took between two days to over seven months when it came to registering first information reports (FIRs) in rape cases in Uttar Pradesh. Dalit women faced more hurdles in accessing the judiciary, the analysis showed. The crime head-wise cases for atrocities committed against SCs in the 2019 data showed rape constituted 7.6 per cent of the total cases against them. While 'simple hurt' at 28.9 per cent formed the largest chunk of cases of crimes against Dalits, it was followed by cases under SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act with 9 per cent cases. "Anti-Dalit violence, including rape of Dalit women, is a manifestation of resentment among members of privileged castes who feel unsettled by the social progress among Dalits. Rape is often a weapon of control," said political economist Anoop Sadanandan. Noting that there was an upsurge of violence against Dalits in the last decade, Sadanandan said it is often greater in states where the relative progress by Dalits has bridged the gap between the historic inter-caste differences, and helped them acquire what the traditionally privileged castes see as their entitlements-education, employment, and lifestyle. "I lost my father to violence by upper caste people. The judiciary has failed us too," said 18-year-old Vinod from Lakhimpur Kheri. "He was charred to death after a spat with people from the higher caste in March. This is how they show us our place," he said. Dalit activist Beena Pallical said a significant amount of the violence recorded is 'backlash violence'. ALSO READ | Hathras case: Congress to hold 'satyagraha' across states on Monday "As long as the mindset of discrimination and untouchability exist, violence will continue. The only way we can undo is by implementing the existing policies," said Pallical. Government data show over 25,000 cases of violence against Dalits were registered in 2000 and over 32,000 in 2010. Between the years 2011 to 2013, the number of cases varied between over 33,000 to over 39,000. The year 2014 saw a sharp increase by recording 47,064 cases and 2015 witnessed 45,003 cases. While 2016 recorded over 40,000 cases, there were 43,203 cases registered in 2017, according to the NCRB statistics. Law has not been able to provide enough protection to Dalits with them often being victims of atrocities when they seek equal rights, observed former chairperson of University Grants Commission, and economist Sukhadeo Thorat. In the recent times, there has been a systemic boost given to the ideology of caste, he added. "Those who seek to access the well prohibited for scheduled caste, take out a marriage procession through the main street of the village and are attacked. This indicates the high castes do not want to change the system," said the economist. "Earlier there were atrocities between two persons -- between a SC and a person from higher caste. In the last decade, the nature of atrocities has changed. Now, there is mass violence -- which is a new phenomenon. This means that the caste consciousness is consolidated," he added. An analysis by NDMJ showed a total of 62,195 cases of atrocities against SC remained pending for investigation at the end 2019, including previous year cases. Dalit organisations have called for an immediate action plan from the government to stop violence against Dalits. A car with President Donald Trump drives past supporters in a motorcade outside of Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., on Oct. 4, 2020. (Alex Edelman/AFP via Getty Images) White House Says Proper Precautions Were Taken for Trumps Motorcade Drive-by White House spokesman Judd Deere told reporters that proper precautions were taken when President Donald Trump left the hospital on Sunday for a motorcade drive-by. Appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the President and all those supporting it, including PPE. The movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do, Deere said. Trump, from behind the glass of a sealed vehicle, waved and gave the thumbs-up gesture to well-wishers who had assembled outside the Walter Reed hospital, where the president was taken on Friday after announcing he and the first lady had tested positive for COVID-19, the illness caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus. The president was seen in the car wearing a mask, while Secret Service agents inside with him also wore masks and appeared to be wearing protective eyewear and gowns. The outing came after Trump wrote in a tweet that he might pay a little surprise to some of the great patriots that we have out on the street. A car with President Donald Trump drives past supporters in a motorcade outside of Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, M., on Oct. 4, 2020. (Alex Edelman/AFP via Getty Images) Supporters of President Donald Trump gather outside of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., on Oct. 4, 2020. (Samuel Corum/Getty Images) The presidents decision to stage the drive-by drew rebuke, with some health experts arguing it unnecessarily put Secret Service agents at risk, while the White House Correspondents Association on Monday criticized the move as outrageous. On Sunday, White House physician Dr. Sean P. Conley said Trumps condition has continued to improve, and another medical specialist said he could return to the White House as early as tomorrow. National security adviser Robert OBrien told CBS News on Sunday Trump is in great shape and is firmly in command of the government and the country. I think hes going to stay at Walter Reed for at least another period of time, OBrien told CBSs Face the Nation. Days seven and eight are the critical days, OBrien said. I think the doctors want to make sure that theyre there for the president and hes getting the best treatment, but hes doing well. Trump is taking a number of medications, including dexamethasone, Remdesivir, and Regeneron, according to his team of doctors. The president on Oct. 3 released a video, saying, Over the next period of a few days, I guess thats the real test, so well be seeing what happens over those next couple of days. I feel much better now. Were working hard to get me all the way back. I have to be back because we still have to make America great again, Trump said. 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United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe NEW YORK - A New York Jets player has reached a deal with prosecutors downgrading criminal charges he tried to bring a gun on a commercial flight to LaGuardia Airport. Quinnen Williams admitted to a violation of disorderly conduct on Monday to settle criminal gun charges accusing him of carrying a pistol when boarding the flight to New York from Alabama in March. The plea deal requires him to forfeit the gun and pay a $250 fine. As we said from the outset, this matter has been resolved with no criminal charges, defence attorney Alex Spiro said in a statement. This case was nothing more than a technical issue with the storing of a firearm. The 22-year-old Williams was drafted No. 3 overall by the Jets in 2019 from the University of Alabama. KAMPALA The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs Adolf Mwesige has Monday October 5 met with the Special Envoy of the Secretary General for the Great Lakes Region, Mr. Huang Xia at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Mbuya. The duo discussed various issues pertaining to the UN Strategy for Peace Consolidation, conflict resolution and prevention in the Great Lakes region. Mr. Huang also briefed the Minister on the ongoing preparations for the upcoming high level meeting of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the region. Mr. Huang expressed high appreciation to Uganda towards the contribution of peacekeeping missions that are supported by the United Nations. Particularly, he thanked the UPDF leadership for the high level of professionalism exhibited by the forces in peacekeeping missions. He remarked that the Great Lakes Region and Africa at large still face challenges such as the fight against rebel groups like ADF which hinder the efforts by the UPDF troops towards Peacekeeping. Mwesige thanked the Special Envoy for the interactive meeting and said that the UPDF remains steadfast in repulsing any attempts or attacks made by the ADF informing him that the remnants had fled to eastern DRC. Mwesige said Uganda has and will always embrace the Pan African ideology especially in Peacekeeping and UN Missions whenever called upon. Ideologies that birthed AMISOM and now EastAfrican Standby Force saying that African problems require home grown African solutions thus the successes of AMISOM in Somalia. In conclusion, the Minister said that Uganda, alongside military solutions, had applied the Amnesty law that is dedicated to support, rehabilitate and reintergrate rebels who denounce rebellion. In attendance were the UN Resident Coordinator Ms. Rosa Malango, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence and Vetaran Affairs, Mrs Rosette Byengoma, the Joint Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Joseph Musanyufu, the Defence Spokesperson and Brig Gen Flavia Byekwaso. Related Three men blew up an ATM in a Chinese takeout restaurant in Philadelphia, US, while the establishment was still open but were unable to get any cash, police said. The men entered the Golden Chinese/American takeout restaurant in northwest Philadelphia shortly after 9 p.m. Friday and ordered food, police said. They then placed some kind of explosive device which damaged the ATM and the window and knocked items off shelves behind the counter, police said. The three went back into the establishment but were unable to remove the cash box that was still inside the damaged ATM, police said. The three then fled, one on a bicycle and the other two on foot. Police were searching for suspects and no arrests were immediately reported. This is not the first time an unusual ATM heist has gone viral. In a heist" clip that went viral in Idnia earlier in May a monkey was found to have ransacked an ATM in New Delhi. When cops found the ransacked ATM with parts of the machine broken, they scanned CCTV footage to check in case robbers were involved. What they find, however, was a monkey causing mischief inside the ATM and even breaking the CCTV camera. After a few restless moments spent in the confines of the ATM kiosk, the monkey goes ahead and takes a much-needed breather. It then casually climbs the machine, tampers the display part of it and starts inspecting it. Realising it had spent considerable time inside, the monkey can be seen cheekily opening the door and exiting the ATM for good. The incident left the Twitterati amused. (With inputs from AP) Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 15:42:14|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close JAKARTA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- A total of 124 detainees and prisoners in Indonesia have tested positive for COVID-19, according to the Directorate General of Corrections Indonesia of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights on Monday. Rika Aprianti, the directorate's head of public relations, said that the detainees and prisoners got infected by correctional officers. "Those who were confirmed positive for COVID-19 were isolated and taken to referral hospitals," Aprianti said. The number of prisoners and detainees in Indonesia has exceeded the capacity of the prisons, the official added. According to the directorate at its website, the eight detention centers and prisons located in Jakarta, with a total capacity of 5,791 people, currently host 14,776 inmates. Enditem Some members of Israels orthodox Jewish community wear fur hats called shtreimels on holidays - Shutterstock Israel may become the first country worldwide to ban trade in fur from wild animals, following an announcement by the countrys environmental protection minister. Calling the buying and selling of animal pelts for the fashion industry immoral, Gila Gamliel said Israel would outlaw the practice. "The fur industry causes the killing of hundreds of millions of animals around the world, and involves indescribable cruelty and suffering," the minister from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ruling Likud Party announced on Sunday. There is no need or justification for the use of furs in the fashion industry, Ms Gamliel said on Twitter. Exemptions would be available for a limited number of purposes, including "scientific research, education, for instruction and religious purposes and tradition." Male members of Israels orthodox Jewish community typically wear fur hats called shtreimels on the sabbath and holidays. The announcement was welcomed by animal rights activists. Exciting news from Israel, said the UK branch of Humane Society International, which is campaigning to ban fur sales in the United Kingdom. Israeli advocacy group Animals Now said most people in the country opposed the fur trade. "Already at the beginning of the struggle, 86 percent of Israelis expressed a clear position that caging, torturing and brutally killing foxes, minks, dogs and cats for extravagant and unnecessary fashion items is unacceptable, the group said in a statement. "The minister's important decision will save countless animals." Some cities worldwide have already banned fur sales, and in October 2019 California became the first US state to do so. When New York city considered banning fur sales last year, some Orthodox Jews opposed the proposal, despite an exemption that would allow sales on religious grounds. If we ban fur and then you have people that are still out there wearing it, considering the fact that hate crime in New York City is on the rise, people will be targeted on the streets, saying, Why are you wearing this if theres a fur ban? Chaim Deutsch, an Orthodox Jew, told The New York Times. While shtreimels are typically made from the pelts of sables, foxes or other animals, in recent years some Orthodox Jewish leaders have encouraged the wearing of synthetic fur. In 2013, Rabbi Shlomo Pappenheim said making shtreimels from animal fur violated religious prohibitions against causing unnecessary suffering to animals. As President Trump remains hospitalized with Covid-19, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will cut short a trip to Asia this week, canceling stops in South Korea and Mongolia but continuing with a visit to Japan. From Sunday through Tuesday he will be in Tokyo, where he will participate in a meeting of foreign ministers from Australia, India and Japan to discuss the pandemic and other issues. Secretary Pompeo expects to be traveling to Asia again in October and will work to reschedule visits on that trip, that is now just a few weeks off, a State Department spokeswoman, Morgan Ortagus, said in a brief written statement Saturday. She did not specify why the schedule had been changed. Mr. Pompeo earlier alluded to the possibility of curtailing his Asia visit because of the novel coronavirus infections in the presidents circle. By Donald Light We hear a lot these days about the possibility of stopping the clinical trials of COVID-19 vaccine candidates early if the results are positive and rushing the vaccines to market. But stopping trials early could downplay or altogether hide the potential health risks, mainly because adverse effects tend to show up later in the testing process. By relying solely on preliminary results, one gets a falsely positive view of the vaccine. Surveys indicate that most people are worried that the government is going to allow untrustworthy COVID-19 vaccines on the market. Therefore, the public should strongly oppose a premature end to clinical trials. During an unprecedented health crisis, greater prudence is called for, not less. Having vaccines tested by the companies who develop them and stand to make windfall profits is a conflict of interest that also fosters distrust. In the past, companies have used a number of well-known techniques for biasing even phase-3 big trials that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and regulators assess. Besides stopping trials early, a second technique is to choose end-points, such as mild COVID-19 cases, that are easier to achieve positive results as opposed to meeting the threshold of providing a real clinical benefit. This causes a vaccine to seem more effective than it really is. A third technique is to exclude the more vulnerable, higher-risk people from the population sampled. However, a random sample of a non-random population is clearly biased. A fourth way is to hide or bury evidence of adverse effects so that they do not show up in the statistical analysis. These are important reasons why independent scientists are demanding that companies openly share the details of both their trial designs and statistical protocols. Vaccines are the most universal public health good in medicine. They are developed and injected into a healthy population and therefore should be extremely safe. William Schultz, who directed policy for the FDA, recently stated that a coronavirus vaccine for the general public should be required to meet the traditional safety and efficacy standards, not ones potentially compromised by haste. Only then can a vaccine be an effective tool to join already proven methods to minimize infection. Whole nations have shown that isolation through travel restrictions and quarantine, masking, testing, and monitoring can drive down rates of infection and death to very low levels. Responsible treatments can, in turn, accelerate the pace at which the economy and consumer spending can be revived and jobs restored. The calls for universal, safe, effective and affordable vaccines to address the current pandemic reflect a philosophy and ethic of proactive treatment that applies to all of health care. Fulfilling this promise depends on well-designed, transparent and trustworthy clinical trials. Donald Light, Ph.D. is a visiting scholar at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton and a professor of health policy at the Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine. He is a faculty affiliate of the New York University Division of Medical Ethics. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Heres how to submit an op-ed or Letter to the Editor. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow us on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and on Facebook at NJ.com Opinion. Get the latest news updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. President Donald Trump has handled the coronavirus pandemic and his own infection poorly because he views illness as an "unforgivable weakness", his niece has suggested. Thats why were in the horrible place were in, because he cannot admit to the weakness of being ill or of other people being ill," said Mary Trump, 55, in an interview for NPR's Fresh Air programme on Sunday. Ms Trump, who is in the process of suing the president and two of his siblings, was speaking while her uncle was condemned for an "insane" motorcade trip outside the hospital where he is being treated. During the pandemic, Mr Trump, 74, has sought to downplay the seriousness of the disease as he pushed for states to come out of lockdown early and Americans to return to work. He until recently refused to wear a face covering and has repeatedly mocked presidential rival, Joe Biden, for taking a cautious approach to the disease, which has so far claimed some 210,000 US lives and infected some 7.5 million others. Since his transfer to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre on Friday, team Trump has attempted to paint a picture of a president in good health. Officials on Saturday published photos of the president working at his desk. But it has since transpired that the commander-in-chief needed oxygen on two separate occasions and that he has been treated with dexamethasone, leading to confusion over his condition. Sunday night's motorcade stunt sparked outrage among the medical community, with critics claiming the president - who may have still been highly infectious - unnecessarily put his security detail at risk. During her interview, Ms Trump - who recently published a tell-all book about her uncle - suggested the president's repeated efforts to portray a strong image could be down to the family's views on illness. Both Donald and his father, Fred Trump, were of the opinion that sickness was "unacceptable," said Ms Trump, before adding: "[That] sounds incredibly cruel, but happens to be true." Explaining where the belief might have come from, Ms Trump told a story about her grandmother (the president's mother) who had osteoporosis. Fred Trump Sr was "unable to tolerate" his wife's sickness, according to Ms Trump. She added: "You know, hed be in the room with her. And as soon as she started showing that she was in physical pain, he would say everythings great, right. Everythings great. And hed leave the room". Ms Trump launched a lawsuit against the president last month accusing him and other family members of defrauding her out of an inheritance worth tens of millions of dollars. The complaint accused Donald Trump, his sister Maryanne Trump Barry, and his brother Robert Trump, who died in August, of rampant fraud and misconduct. She accused the siblings of seizing control of the real estate empire built by their father Fred Trump Sr, who died in 1999, and exploiting it to enrich themselves. Fraud was not just the family business - it was a way of life, according to the complaint filed in a New York state court in Manhattan. The White House responded by saying the only "fraud committed there was Mary Trump recording one of her relatives and she has really discredited herself. By PTI JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi spoke on Monday and agreed to advance bilateral cooperation on handling the coronavirus pandemic and to hold a digital conference on innovation in the field of solar energy. "The two leaders agreed to continue and advance bilateral cooperation in the fight against the coronavirus with emphasis on technological cooperation and tests," Israeli PM's official twitter handle said. India and Israel have been cooperating in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic with a high-level delegation from Israel carrying out trials on a rapid testing kit in India. The two also agreed to hold a digital conference on innovation in the field of solar energy in order to jointly achieve more inexpensive solutions that will benefit the economies of both countries and the entire world. PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) October 5, 2020 Sources here said that the two countries will also be cooperating on the mass production of the vaccine against the coronavirus as and when time comes. "The two (leaders) also agreed to hold a digital conference on innovation in the field of solar energy in order to jointly achieve more inexpensive solutions that will benefit the economies of both countries and the entire world," Israeli PM's office tweeted. Informed sources told PTI that Israel is likely to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA) soon, a global initiative launched by Prime Minister Modi. It was the fourth telephonic conversation between the two leaders since the outbreak of the pandemic. India sent a "much-needed" consignment of medicines at Israel's request which was reciprocated by Israel when it sent a consignment of ventilators to Delhi. The enemy is again shelling Stepanakert and Shushi cities. Vahram Poghosyan, spokesperson for the President of the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), wrote this on Facebook Monday morning. The response of the [Artsakh] Defense Army will not be delayed. But unlike Baku's terrorist halls of power, we do not target the civilian population, but the military facilities that are permanently located in large cities. We again urge civilians living in those cities to immediately leave their residences to avoid possible casualties, Poghosyan added. On September 27, the Azerbaijani armed forces launched a large-scale attack against Artsakh, targeting its civilian population, too. As of October 4, the Artsakh Defense Army has destroyed the adversarys 14 combat helicopters, 17 warplanes, 124 drones, 368 units of armored vehiclesmainly tanks, 82 vehicles, and 10 armored personnel carriersone TOS-1A heavy artillery system, 4 Smerch and 1 Uragan rocket launcher systems. The adversary has over 3,145 casualties, more than 5,270 wounded. From the Armenian side, according to preliminary data, there are 209 casualties and more than 200 wounded. The Azerbaijani army also targeted the military and civilian infrastructure of Artsakh and Armenia, as a result of which 2 civilians were killed in Gegharkunik Province of Armenia and 14in Artsakh. Tourism Saskatchewan has partnered with Destination Canada for its new Canada Nice campaign and the Hudson Bay area is reaping some of the rewards with new grants coming their way to promote the region. Jeanine Holowatiuk, the community economic development officer, announced the new grants during the Sept. 22 council meeting with $60,000 being split between the communities of Hudson Bay, Carrot River and Nipawin in order to show the nice sides of the region. They want to highlight the nice stories, the nice people, everything that makes Saskatchewan great. So locally in Hudson Bay, well be looking for those stories, those projects that really show how great Hudson Bay is. Each community will receive $8,000 for content creation and $12,000 for marketing, Holowatiuk said. NewSask awards Hudson Bay was also honoured to see five of its local businesses receive NewSask Community Future awards. The recent online competition saw businesses rewarded for innovation and sustainability during COVID-19, Holowatiuk said. While she wishes all the Hudson Bay businesses could have been nominated for the $500 cash prize, she was excited to see the businesses be honoured in this way. Holowatuik said she would like to congratulate all of the winning Hudson Bay winning businesses: Lewellins Sales and Service, Craig Home Hardware, Northern Life Insurance, Let-Us Grow, and Generations Flowers and Gifts. When COVID hit, they all had to think of different, creative ways to service the community and keep their businesses operating and all of them did so much for the community that I wish every business could have been nominated. It was really exciting to have five of our businesses chosen for the winners. The town office is always looking for ways to honour and support local businesses and they have been asking other communities what they have been doing, Holowatiuk said. Right now, they are trying to focus on what local businesses need for support and what barriers are keeping them from accessing provincial and federal funding. One physicians journey from burnout to bliss reveals the creative muse in all of us 452 Shares Share An excerpt from Right Brain Rescue: One physicians journey from burnout to bliss reveals the creative muse in all of us. I was about to perform reconstructive surgery, to change someones life forever. My hands were posed above the body, and my knees felt wobbly. I inhaled briskly, and the scent of the sharp, sterile air shocked my lungs. Suddenly, I was acutely aware of all my senses: the scratchy fabric of the standard-issued uniform against my back, the thud of my heart against my rib cage, the leftover taste of a ham-and-swiss sandwich in my mouth. Music softly played in the background, the song We are the World. It was 1984, and I was about to complete the worlds first nose transplant. I was only nine years old. Hold still, I muttered to my own pair of trembling hands. I reached forward, extending a gloved fingertip to adjust the contour of the patients nose. I gently straightened its bridge. There. Much better, I commented to the staff in the operating room. Crowds had gathered to witness my unusual surgical techniques. I stepped back and tilted my head to the side for better perspective. Almost, but not quite, I uttered. I smoothed the left nostril edge to match the right. There. Perfection! I proudly gazed at the majestic nose I created, as if stolen from a Greecian statue. Triumphant, I backed away from the operating table. There was a collective exhale in the room and then a flash of newspaper cameras and thundering applause. Without warning, the patient wiggled right off the operating room table and the fictitious crowd vanished. The fresh Silly Putty nose slid off my little brothers face and bounced to the ground. He darted down the hallway as the only surgical assistantmy sistershrugged. With the fantasy completely over, I chased after him, but Grandpas hallways were labyrinthine. His home was an enormous collection of mystery, each room guarded with a heavy door and intricate doorknob. My hands twisted each one desperately as I peeked into vacant rooms, searching for my escaped patient. Opening door after door, revealing rooms like backdrops to different movie genres: sticky pleather couches paired with a faded avocado green rug (seventies drama). A utilitarian desk topped with mountains of invoices and a huddle of half-empty coffee mugs (mystery/suspense). A kitchen with flour scattered on the floor and broken eggs (comedy). Finally, the last room. The horror genre. I opened the door slowly. Rows of shiny caskets were arranged as neatly as a parking lot. Suddenly, my brother emerged from behind a funeral wreath, giggling as he skirted past. My childhood wasnt quite like others. While my grade school friends Barbies drove shiny red corvettes and lived in extravagant dream houses, mine slept in mini-coffins and had pretend funerals. In middle school, my friends had grandparents who baked cookies and smelled of vanilla and cinnamon when they gave hugs. An aroma of formaldehyde and methanol wafted from my grandparents with each polite nod. If you have one hour left to live, spend it in a funeral home. It would last forever. As a kid, most of us could fill that hour easily. We were born masters of play and quickly filled in the blanks with our imagination. We love Mad Libs, Choose Your Own Adventure books, and the two words free and timethe negative space that remains an essential element to any creative endeavor. Sometime after we hear, The floor is lava, but before Can I see your ID, we change. Adults wouldnt know what to do with the gift of an hour (probably spend it unsubscribing from email lists). Adults dont do well with fill-in-the-blanks or empty canvases. It makes us uncomfortable, so we fill the space. We clap during the silence between orchestral pieces. We oversaturate our photos with filters. We impatiently ask, So when are you getting married? as soon as our friends are dating (and then follow with When are you having a baby? after they throw the garter belt). Growing older, we dont feel the shrinking of our imagination at first. Its silent and impalpable, replaced by the well-rehearsed confidence of maturity. Adulthood is marked by knowing. Deciding. Analyzing. Leaving space for wonder and curiosity is simply too risky and unknown. Having negative space is acknowledging there is no answer, but many possibilities. Its admitting you have a choice in what note to play next, which word to write or color to paint. Negative space is where the magic happens, and adults rush through it. What finish line are we rushing toward? Death? In my childhood, death was an invisible force that could fill those negative spaces without warning. Grandpas house of movie genres would be transformed overnight into a gathering where everyone stared at a big, open box containing a sentimental gift inside. Death was kinda like a bizarrely goth alternative Santa Claus that reminded everyone to make use of those wondrous spaces while you had them. Decay is our measuring stick. Doctors, morticians, and artists all calculate their impact by comparing against this expiration date. When your body slumps before a doctora sickly heap of fever, cough, and phlegmyou are essentially asking, Really, how close to Death am I?! Similarly, as your cold body is on display before a mortician, your question is, How close to Life can you make me look? This job belonged to my mother. As a young girl, Id stand on my tiptoes, craning my neck to watch her sweep cerulean eye shadow across lids and smear foundation on sunken cheeks. While my high school friends resorted to secondhand eye shadow instruction from the pages of Teen magazine, I learned by watching my mom transform the face of a corpse with her skilled makeup application. My mothers gentle and methodical lipstick application entranced me. Back and forth. Slowly outlining the cupids bow of a mouth. Delicately tracing of the arch in a feathery eyebrow. Until, wondrously, the corpses vacant mask appeared serenely lifelike. With her artistry complete, no one could spot the thin line of super glue keeping the embalmed lips from springing open, or the plastic eye caps that gave the appearance of eyeballs peacefully resting in sockets. As I grew older, I pondered their last moments before this transition. What was the final word they spoke? Who received their last hug? What were they thinking when they realized their mortal roller-coaster ride was coming to a full and complete stop? Appearances are everything. Even in death. Stand around any funeral home and youll hear comments like: That spring palette is the wrong tone for Ednas winter skin. Did they use hypoallergenic cosmetics for Gladys? Freds eyebrows never looked so magnificent. As the grieving patrons milled around, Id position myself behind the stairwell and peer between the railings, searching for the Mystery Guest. There was always one. Theyd stand away from the crowd to avoid the family greeting line. Youd never see their signature in the guest book. Instead, theyd always keep a respectful distance. It was these people that spurred my imagination. Id analyze their body language and expressions to compose a tortuous story. One Mystery Lady arrived wearing a conservative pencil skirt and wool blazer. Her brunette hair, aged with silvery streaks, was pulled into an elegant bun. She removed her sunglasses and stepped to the casket, heels silent on the carpeted floor. Her eyes flanked by gentle wrinkles, she stared at the corpses strong, masculine hands. Maybe they worked together in a deli shop one summer in college. The first time she shook his warm hand, she was hooked. His touch was medicinal and melty. Watching him carve a turkey became a daily religious experience, but it was his earnest eyes that kept her at that wretchedly boring job. Mystery Lady leaned closer, and a delicate tear dripped down her powdered cheek. Perhaps instead, he was her enthusiastic grade-school piano teacher. As a foster child, she often felt isolated and alone. He inspired her to express her pent-up emotions through the ivory keys. He gave the most encompassing hugs. His arms felt like they encircled her twice over. Eventually, she went off to college and signed on with Tokyo Symphonic Orchestra decades later. She never did get a chance to thank him. Mystery Lady paused, inhaled deeply, and dabbed her nose with a butter-yellow lace handkerchief. Conceivably, he was her neighbor. Theyd spend afternoons climbing oak trees and evenings catching fireflies. Theyd cut tags off of stuffed animals to turn them real and talk to ghosts stuck in the abandoned house down the street. Hard to believe he only lived next door for a few months. His influence was what sparked her career in childhood psychology. We fill our lives with what ifs and missed opportunities. A multitude of alternative lives, unexplored. Mystery Lady buttoned up her secret and walked out the funeral parlor doors. Once all sadness had evaporated from the air, and the coffin was on its way below the dirt, Grandpas funeral home would be a stoically empty space again. Years later, at my mothers urging, I wandered the halls of my grandpas home, on a mission for spare items to furnish my vacant college apartment. Tucked in a box, I discovered the Mystery Ladys forgotten butter-yellow lace handkerchief. I was tempted to keep it, but a recent viewing of Amityville Horror convinced me otherwise. I left the Mystery Ladys memories intact. I continued my scavenger hunt and sniffed each upholstered ottoman and chair. After baking in years of formaldehyde air, nothing would pass the nostrils of my roommates without serious disdain. With the stale scent of perfumed chemicals in my nostrils, I only dared to accept a stainless steel whisk. It was the most neutral item I could find. Stainless steel doesnt keep memories. Its easily cleansed of smell and fingerprints, and makes an unflappable witness in our human events. This explains why its cold surface gleams in hospitals and embalming rooms, and is evidence of how similar doctors and morticians can be as they deal with the full spectrum of deathfrom peaceful to senseless. Both professions serve communities and demand long hours, mounds of paperwork, and copious late-night phone calls. Somewhere in either career, youll inevitably find a person eating a bologna sandwich over a dead body. Lara Salyer is a family physician and author of Right Brain Rescue: One physicians journey from burnout to bliss reveals the creative muse in all of us. Image credit: Shutterstock.com President Trump and his supporters have embraced fascist politics, and his handling of the coronavirus pandemic and his positive diagnosis are a classic example of how, according a Yale philosophy professor and fascism expert. In this kind of politics the leader is the nation, Jason Stanley, the author of 2018s How Fascism Works: The Politics of Us and Them, told The Independent. The leader is supposed to be strong. Theyre just trying to represent that hes strong and it doesnt affect him and it wont affect the nation. [President Jair] Bolsonaro in Brazil did the same thing. Trump has long cast doubt on the severity of coronavirus, often publicly disagreeing with his own top medical experts, and that streak has continued even as he joined the ranks of the more than 7.3 million Americans whove caught Covid. On Monday, tweeting about his upcoming release from the hospital, Trump said, Dont be afraid of Covid, despite the fact it has killed more than 209,000 Americans and infected even those inside the White House, who have access to some of the best medical care in the world. Trumps surrogates, Stanley points out, have also gone on to spin Trumps diagnosis as a sign of his and Americas strength, and to paint former Vice President Joe Bidens more cautious approach to campaigning virtually as a weakness. In a Monday interview with Fox News, Trump re-election campaign adviser Mercedes Schlapp described Trump as the ultimate fighter. He obviously has stayed in contact not only with the campaign but also talking directly to the American people in saying, Were going to get through this. Were going to defeat this virus. Were not going to surrender to it like Joe Biden would surrender to this virus, she said. Fascists, Stanley said, gravitate to the same kind of tactics: building a cult of personality among supporters; encouraging anti-intellectualism; appealing to the mythic strength of a nation to cure its declineor Make it Great Again, in Trumps famous turn of phrase. But something like a pandemic can, if only temporarily, break through this bubble. Those who deny coronavirus is a threat can still catch it themselves. Now signals are crossed when its his own supporters. Hes been denying reality, Stanley said. He only thinks of everything in terms of war, and you can see this in the reaction to coronavirus, too, but facts dont really have a side. The fascism expert worries about developments beyond the pandemic too, from Trumps seeming approval of militia groups like the Proud Boys during the debate, to his demonization of Mexican immigrants as rapists and drug dealers, to his more than 20,000 documented false or misleading claims made since becoming president. President Trump, but for the safeguards of our liberal democratic system, would gladly rule like Russian President Vladimir Putin if he were able, Stanley believes. But not everyone believes the label of fascism, whether applied to Mr. Trump himself, or to the broader movement of his supporters in- and outside of government, to be an accurate one. Eliah Bures, a visiting scholar at University of California, Berkeleys Center for Right-Wing Studies, wrote in Foreign Policy in 2019 that the F-word is marvelously flexible and emotive, but it is also an example of language that is more likely to alienate and enrage than promote dialogue. This would seem, Bures argues, to go exactly against the kind of open society opponents of fascism want. While demonization is an ancient political itch always better left unscratched, it is especially harmful to a liberal-democratic political culture since it legitimizes intransigence and extremism in return, he writes. For every more-liberal book like 2018s Fascism: A Warning, from former Secretary of State under the Clinton Administration Madeline Albright, or accusation from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez that Trumps family separation and detention policies at the border signal were headed to fascism, there are books like conservative commentator Dinesh DSouzas 2017 work The Big Lie: Exposing the Nazi Roots of the American Left, and President Trumps claim that anti-fascists protestors were in fact encouraging fascism. Fascism, in other words, has become the latest grist for the partisan mill, Bures worries, and its easy use today often ignores the meaningful differences between regimes past and present, such as older fascists millenarian visions and genocidal violence. How to make sense of this context, then, when all people of various political persuasions accuse each other of being the truly dangerous radicals? It is actually somewhat simple, Stanley says. The media must focus less on Trump the man who frequently lies and contradicts himself, and more on the impact of the presidents actions, such as his repeated efforts to undermine trust in the November elections. When hes running against the media, and the media says hes lying, thats a win for his supporters, Stanley says. Trump is trying to rig the election. More than anything though, Stanley says the people in power must decide to wrestle us back from a world where the president can both say and do seemingly whatever he wants without losing their support. You need two political parties that respect the existence of the other political party, Stanley says. If youre going to reestablish norms, you cant have a political system where norms only hold for the Democrats. Whether those norms will matter will be put to the test in the coming weeks. Republicans, who refused to confirm a new Supreme Court Justice appointed by President Obama because the election was only nine months away, will convene on October 12 to begin a Supreme Court confirmation process for one of Trumps picks, weeks from an election day already rocked by a global pandemic. Two Republican members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Utahs Mike Lee and North Carolinas Thom Tillis, announced they tested positive for coronavirus on Friday. The consequences of the coronavirus are without question, but everything else, thats up for debate. City Quays 3 What is now the tallest office building in Northern Ireland after being topped out, City Quays 3 is the largest office scheme to be developed by Belfast Harbour a 16-storey structure. The Harbour has the ability to build without any significant pre-lettings due to the strength of its balance sheet and the fact it owns the land. At the time of print, work was well-progressed for the scheme, but no tenants had been announced. The City Quays developments have been significantly quieter in the last few months some of the international firms which call the area home have been entirely, are almost entirely, working from home. There remains a requirement for a large new head office for an international financial services business in the city and City Quays 3 could remain one option when completed. Expand Close Progress on City Quays 3 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Progress on City Quays 3 North-south Interconnector Another regionally significant planning application which would see electricity grids connected between Northern Ireland and the Republic. A secure and stable connection and supplying chain is likely something which will only be seen as more important post-crisis and with Brexit on the horizon. The scheme has now been given the green light in Northern Ireland and already has permission in the Republic. Arc 21 waste-to-energy plant A scheme which has rattled on for around 15 years, the proposed 240m development would deal with 300,000 tonnes of black bin waste from six Northern Ireland councils. It was turned down by former Environment Minister Mark H Durkan, then green lit by civil servants and permission was then overturned in the courts with a lack of Executive in place. Now, its on the desk of Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon. The Covid-19 crisis is unlikely to play much of a part in whether the scheme receives approval. Expand Close What the Arc21 incinerator could like / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp What the Arc21 incinerator could like York Street Interchange A long-awaited development, thought to cost between 120m and 165m, the project is intended to address a major traffic bottleneck to the north of Belfast city centre. It was subject to a successful legal challenge over the tendering process, and is now subject to a review. While its been earmarked for some time, no funding has been ring-fenced for the schemes construction, so an assessment of Executive priorities is likely to be examined to see whether government coffers are sufficient, once the current, and future cost, of Covid can be examined. Kings Hall Health and Wellbeing Park The grand plans by Benmore of converting the former Kings Hall in south Belfast into a large health park remain well on track, according to the firm. Its a scheme which is likely to be in increasing in demand amid a health crisis which we havent faced in multiple generations. The extended site will include care for the elderly and assisted living accommodation, a mixed-use medical facility and a multi-storey car park. In May, it was announced Nugent Hall, which is adjacent to the main Kings Hall building, had been made watertight and refitted with electricity to allow the safe storage of face masks, protective gowns and other PPE. Expand Close The Kings Hall Health and Wellbeing Park / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Kings Hall Health and Wellbeing Park Tribeca A huge mixed-use scheme dating back more than 20 years, the proposed development formerly called Royal Exchange has just received outline planning permission for a claimed 500m total proposed investment. But even in just the last few of years, it has undergone several iterations moving from a huge retail-led scheme, to one bolstered by office and residential. But an almost 500,000 sq ft allocation of grade A office space is one element which is likely to be at least re-examined, if not revised down. Work has already begun on some early elements of the development, by Castlebrooke, around the Lower Garfield Street area of the city centre. While there is already provision for around 380,000 sq ft of residential, its not clear whether some of the office elements could be repurposed, depending on how office demand fares over the coming year or two. Expand Close What Tribeca could look like / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp What Tribeca could look like Sirocco Another of Belfasts large-scale legacy proposed schemes which would see a huge 400m development at the former Sirocco Works close to the city centre. Its as equally as ambitious a scheme as Tribeca, purports to be able to create more than 8,000 jobs and provide homes for 1,500 people. Its a mixed-use proposal, with serviced apartments, hotels and restaurants. But again, theres a huge focus on grade A office space more than 800,000 sq ft in this case. Outline permission has been granted but again, a reassessment of the office demand is possible while plans for significant residential could help Belfast City Council achieve its very ambitious target of increasing the number of people living in the city to rise to 66,000 by 2035 an increase of almost double the current levels. Expand Close A CG image of the Sirocco development / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp A CG image of the Sirocco development Merchant Square One of the major office schemes pre-let in Belfast before the onset of the coronavirus crisis. The building on Wellington Place by Gareth Grahams Oakland Holdings is now in possession of its new tenants, PwC, and is beginning the shift from its previous offices at Waterfront Plaza. The company has signed a long-term lease for the entire building, which comprises 200,000 sq ft of office space across nine floors. Bedford Square Not far from Merchant Square, work is well under way on Bedford Square. It will see a major new 17-storey building connected to the listed former Ewarts Warehouse. Last year, professional services firm Deloitte announced it would take on the building as its new head office in Northern Ireland. Work continues on the building by Northern Ireland construction giant McAleer and Rushe and given an anchor tenant is on board its likely any changes to the plans at this stage would only be around smaller amendments to the overall schemes internals to deal with elements such as social distancing. Expand Close The proposed Bedford Square development / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The proposed Bedford Square development Student accommodation Several large student schemes are either completed, or now well under way in the north end of the city centre. However, its not yet clear what a reduction in the number of students attending university in the coming term, and in particular students from abroad which are the main targets for new high-end accommodation schemes, will have on both demand and the speed in which other buildings are constructed. The completed scheme at 26-44 Little Patrick Street has already submitted a temporary change of use for seven of the buildings floors from student accommodation to apart-hotel use. Dalradian gold mine What is probably the most controversial regionally significant planning application to be dealt with here in the last few years, Dalradians plans for a gold mine in Co Tyrone have continued for several years. But it was announced this summer by Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon that the planning application for the Dalradian mine project will be the subject of an independent public inquiry. Elements of the scheme have changed since it was first mooted, including the removal of the use of cyanide in its extraction process. In June the company said the inquiry was a key milestone in the planning process of a regionally significant project which will be a major economic opportunity for Northern Ireland the inquiry will provide a further forum in which to engage on the facts of the project and to hear from all stakeholders. A decision on granting the scheme or whether the developers continue to push ahead is unlikely to be impacted directly by the current crisis. One Grosvenor Gate One of the only major office developments to submit full planning for Belfast this summer. The scheme is a proposed 14-storey office building, of around 225,000 sq ft at 102-127 Grosvenor Road, opposite what will become the new Belfast Transport Hub. Developers worked through lockdown to design and prepare the requisite supporting report for the planning application, which was submitted in August. Ukraine has a plan for a peaceful settlement of the situation in Donbas; and the final stage of this plan is local elections. According to Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak, the plan is already "on the table" and awaiting "answers from our counterparts." The final stage of this plan is to hold local elections in the de-occupied territories under Ukrainian law. One of the major achievements of this year is that none of our international partners have any questions about Ukraine's position. A Ukrainian peace plan is on the table. This plan includes the thing that the Ukrainian people are waiting for, and that, I hope, the residents of Donbas, our military and their families are waiting for Therefore, we managed to create an atmosphere in the negotiation process, both in the Minsk and Normandy formats, when no one has any doubts [about our position], all that remains is to get answers from our counterparts," Yermak said on the air of the Ukraina 24 TV channel, Ukrinform reports. According to him, the plan can be finalized, but the "other side" must decide whether it agrees to a peaceful settlement or not. Yermak added that Ukraine must return its territory, regain control of the state border, and then democratic elections will be held in the demilitarized areas of Donbas. ish Cooks tip: In Japan nabe dinner often ends with adding plain boiled rice into the remaining tasty stock in the pot to make risotto. Nabe, or hotpot, is very popular in Japan, where each region, family and even sumo stable has its favourite recipe using a variety of seasonal and regional ingredients. This recipe is based on an old favourite of Fukuoka prefecture in northern Kyushu, but it is cooked all around Japan. A big communal pot is placed in the middle of a table and diners do their own cooking, choosing a variety of ingredients from a large platter. Nabe is easy, tasty, nourishing and, above all, very friendly. Japanese people know almost instinctively when food is cooked in a pot and ready to eat because they would have been brought up with nabe since childhood. So I have adjusted a traditional recipe to make it like a hearty stew, and all the cooking is done in the kitchen. But to enjoy the spirit of nabe I urge you to take the pot to a table and invite family and friends to serve themselves with refreshing ponzu dipping sauce. Serves 4-6 For the chicken stock 8-12 chicken thighs (depending on your appetite), skin-on, bone-in 30g piece of unpeeled ginger, scrubbed clean and thinly sliced 2 leeks, green parts only (reserve white parts for the hotpot below) handful of uncooked rice 2 litres water salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste For the Hotpot 300g firm tofu, drained and diced into large bite-size chunks (optional) Chinese cabbage, roughly chopped 2 leeks, white parts from above, cut at an angle into slices 2cm thick 2 carrots, peeled and cut at an angle into slices 1cm thick 8 shiitake mushrooms 40g watercress or baby spinach For the ponzu 60ml soy sauce 60ml mirin 60ml rice vinegar 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice Put the chicken in a large pot with the ginger, green leek tops and rice (any type will do and rice gives the stock a touch of sweetness). Add the water and cover with a lid then bring to the boil over a high heat. Remove the lid when it starts boiling (uncovering helps to keep the stock clear) and reduce the heat to low. Continue simmering for about an hour, skimming any scum off the surface but adding water if necessary to ensure the chicken remains covered. If you are using tofu, start draining by wrapping it in kitchen paper placed on a chopping board and tilt it slightly to let the water run down. Meanwhile prepare the ponzu by mixing all the ingredients together in a nonmetallic bowl and set aside. Strain the stock through a fine mesh sieve there should be about 1.5 litres. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper and discard the rice and vegetables. Put the chicken aside to cool. Remove the skin and bone and discard, then break the flesh into large bite-sized pieces with your hands. Put the stock in a large pot, add the chicken with all the hotpot vegetables except the watercress or spinach and bring to the boil over a medium heat and cook uncovered for 5-7 minutes until all vegetables are cooked through. Remove from the heat, add the watercress or spinach on top, gently stir. Now take the pot to your table and invite everyone to serve themselves with ponzu dipping sauce. Cooks tip In Japan nabe dinner often ends with adding plain boiled rice into the remaining tasty stock in the pot to make risotto. Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 5 : Leader of opposition in Kerala Assembly and Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala on Monday asked Unitac Builders head Santhosh Eapen to apologise or face legal action after he said that Chennithala had received an iPhone from him. In an affidavit filed in the Kerala High Court on Thursday, Eapen, an accused listed by the CBI in the 'Life Mission' project corruption case, mentioned that gold smuggling case prime accused Swapna Suresh had asked him to buy five iPhones to be given to VIP guests invited to the UAE National Day celebrations here in December last year. The affidavit claimed that one phone was given to Chennithala. In his legal notice, Chennithala has asked Eapen to first alter his affidavit and then publicly apologise in three prominent dailies or pay Rs one crore for the 'defamatory' statement. Eapen's firm had got the contract for building the Life Mission flats project at Wadakkancherry in Thrissur. He filed the affidavit in the High Court in connection with his plea to seek quashing of the FIR registered against him. Soon after Eapen's affidavit surfaced in the media, CPI-M state secretary went hammer and tongs against Chennithala. However, Chennithala has denied this as a baseless allegation and then asked Eapen to apologise, if not face legal action. In Life Mission project, billed as a pet project of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, the construction of 140 flats was handed over to Eapen's firm. Swapna Suresh allegedly played a role in this as it was funded by the UAE-based charity 'Red Crescent' and routed through its Consulate. Swapna Suresh, a former employee of the Consulate, had gone to the UAE along with the now-suspended senior IAS officer and Vijayan's former Principal Secretary M. Sivasankar, ahead of finalisation of this project. On Thursday, the Vijayan government suffered a serious setback after the High Court gave its nod to the ongoing CBI probe. The Life Mission and other accused moved a petition to get the CBI FIR in the case quashed. The case is coming up later this week. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Fashion retailer New Look's application for Examinership in Ireland is "not about saving jobs" but an attempt to rewrite its contracts with landlords, it has been claimed. A lawyer for some of the landlords told the High Court the company was in "more robust health than most" despite the Covid-19 pandemic and was seeking to make changes that could save it around 5m a year in rent. New Look asked the court to confirm the appointment of an Examiner, saying while it has cash to pay its debts today, it expects to be insolvent by March. Last month, the court appointed Ken Fennell of Deloitte as interim Examiner to the chain's Irish arm, which has 27 shops and 475 staff. New Look sought the protection of the courts due to financial difficulties and losses from the pandemic. Read More Yesterday, Kelley Smith BL, for New Look, told the court the company was in an "unprecedented situation" where stores had been closed for three months and then reopened in a very different trading situation. She said that landlords were asking the company to continue to pay them "until it reaches the precipice and then falls over". On March 17, three days before the shops closed, New Look asked for a three-month rental holiday and no landlord had agreed to that, Ms Smith said. The landlords accepted the company was in financial difficulty and had "moved position" to state they would forgive rent for April, May, and June, but she said that had "strings attached". she said. "This is only a temporary breathing space we are looking for," Ms Smith said, adding that the company had said it would pay its arrears during Examinership and had paid rent in full since August 28. Ms Smith said there was no evidence of a "strategy" by the company and rejected any suggestion of "bad faith or improper purpose" to the application. "The landlords want us to continue to pay... without sight of the train coming down the track," she said. The court heard submissions on behalf of the landlords who described the application as "audacious, opportunistic, cynical and contrived." Rossa Fanning SC, for the three opposing landlords, said "substantial arrears" had built up in relation to their four stores. These were 365,185 for the Liffey Valley store; 169.031 at Navan Town Centre; 92,361 at Fairgreen, Mullingar, Co Westmeath and 56,901 at Castlewest Shopping Centre, Ballincollig, Co Cork. The Examinership was "not about saving jobs, it's about reducing the obligation to landlords to improve profitability" for the company, he said. The petition for Examinership was a "brazen and obvious" attempt to replicate the benefits from a Company Voluntary Arrangement undertaken by the parent company in England, he said. Mr Fanning said that it was not credible that the company which had 15.6m in cash reserves last month would go into liquidation if Examinership was refused, and it had "deliberately sought to exaggerate its insolvency". There are some in Erie who know what civil war really does look like, and one of them was sitting in a backyard one afternoon on the east side of the city. Deng Rag fled Sudan 23 years ago when his country was engulfed in fighting. He is one of thousands of refugees from all over the world who resettled in Erie over the past several decades, and since becoming a U.S. citizen, Rag, 50, has voted in every presidential election. He has voted Republican and voted Democratic, he said, though it was Obama who best represented what he had always admired about America. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that from 2021 Ukraine will begin entering the regime of reducing the number of paper documents and moving to a complete rejection of them. "The year of 2021 will be the beginning of the country's entry into the 'paperless' regime. That is, no more papers. This applies to all state bodies. And most importantly, no state institution will be able to demand from Ukrainians any certificates, extracts or other endless pieces of paper required to receive certain government services," he said, speaking at the Diia Summit. Zelensky recalled that an ambitious goal was set in his election program to make the "State in a Smartphone." "Then a lot of people twisted, excuse me, a finger to their temples, and said that all this is impossible. But after a year citizens of Ukraine were able to download the Diia mobile application in App Store and Google Play, obtain permits in the developer's e-office, register an individual entrepreneur in 15 minutes, faster than in most countries of the world, to use the "e-baby" service and receive services on one application in the hospital or online," he said. The president pointed out that a year later, Ukraine became the fourth country in Europe to have a digital driver's license and the first country in the world to have a digital passport with which one can travel or open a bank account online. "This is only a tenth of our big plans and only the beginning of the road to a digital state, where one hundred percent of services will be online, and bureaucracy and corruption will become atypical. Digital Ukraine is not only convenient, it is a powerful economic development, because the share of the digital economy in the world is growing very rapidly," he said. Zelensky also noted that a few weeks ago he signed a decree on creating favorable conditions for the development of the IT industry in Ukraine. "In addition, the draft law on the Diia City is defined as urgent. This is a unique story, according to which a special legal and economic zone for the creative economy will be created. And we are waiting for its adoption by parliament as soon as possible," he stressed. IARU Region 1 Virtual General Conference Cyprus Amateur Radio Society reports the Delegate Training event for the IARU Region 1 Virtual General Conference took place October 4. The conference itself is October 11-16 The CARS website says: If the Covid-19 pandemic had not taken over the whole world, a Cyprus Amateur Radio Society delegate would be currently flying to Novi Sad in Serbia for the IARU Region 1 General Conference. Unfortunately the pandemic is upon us. The IARU Region 1 committee has therefore decided to hold a Virtual General Conference instead, taking place from Sunday 11th to Friday 16th October 2020 using the GoToMeeting platform. On Sunday 4th October, all delegates received guidance to use the virtual platform and on Tuesday 6th October at 18:00 CAT, the C2 Credentials meeting will take place. This meeting will look at the list of Member Societies registered and if their Region 1 subscriptions have been paid by 1st October 2020. The Opening Plenary of the 2020 Conference takes place at 09:00 CAT on Sunday 11th October. The Conference work will be done in streams C2 Budget; Committee 3 -Administration; Committee 4 the Permanent HF Committee; Committee 5 the Permanent VHF, UHF and Microwave Committee; Committee 7 the Permanent EMC Committee; the Spectrum and Regulatory Committee/Political Relations Committee and the Youth Working Group. The Papers for the Conference are available on https://r1papers.wordpress.com/ On each day from Sunday to Wednesday, three streams will meet at 09:00, 13:00 and 16:30 CAT per Conference timetable. On Thursday 16th October, C3 will meet at 09:00, whereafter the Region 1 Secretary will prepare the Papers for the Final Plenary and provide each Member Society with copies. The Final Plenary will start at 09:00 SAT on Friday 16th October, with the second session at 13:00 and if needed a third session at 16:30. The CARS team attending the Conference is Head of Delegation, Nestor Jacovides, 5B4AHZ with Spyros Stavrinides, 5B4MF. Source CARS https://www.cyhams.org/wp/?p=6105 Follow the Cyprus Amateur Radio Society at https://twitter.com/CYHAMS Washingtons point person on arms control visited Vietnam, a Communist war rival five decades ago, for meetings about perceived threats from China because Vietnamese officials hold positions in key international bodies and align ever more closely with the West, experts say. U.S. presidential arms control envoy Marshall Billingslea met Vietnamese officials Thursday to discuss Chinese offshore expansion, including fears of a growing nuclear arsenal, he told reporters. The envoy had visited traditional U.S. allies Japan and South Korea on the same trip. We know that the United States has recognized Vietnams strategic potential in Asia and that the strategic potential of Vietnam is increasing with the competition between the United States and China, so I should think a lot of discussion would be revolved around the larger balance of power in the region, including the South China Sea, said Alexander Vuving, professor at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Hawaii. Vietnam this year became a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) negotiating bloc, attractions for the U.S. delegation, analysts say. Vietnamese leaders have opened already to other high-level U.S. visits, arms sales from Western ally India and ports-of-call by the Australian navy. We have solicited their advice on how to use multilateral mechanisms becausewhen it comes to what the Chinese are doing, this is not simply about great power competition, Billingslea told a telephone news briefing Friday. Vietnam, like the United States, resents Beijings expansion in the South China Sea. Chinese sovereignty claims to about 90% of the waterway overlap those of Vietnam, as well as Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan and the Philippines all militarily weaker than China. The United States fought for 12 years against Vietnam's Communist forces, which were on their way to taking over the Southeast Asian countrys south. U.S. forces pulled out in 1973 and Communist forces took over all of Vietnam in 1975. Today's Communist officials in Hanoi still have a unique party-to-party relationship with China as well as access to North Korea, a fellow Communist state that has outraged U.S. officials. The U.S. may be looking to Vietnam for tips on how to approach North Korea at a series of Asian leadership meetings set for late 2020, said Carl Thayer, emeritus professor at the University of New South Wales in Australia. Vietnam, he said, would be able to size up the views of other ASEAN states and check in on Pyongyang. The significance is that the U.S. sees Vietnam as a player that one can exchange ideas with, that can canvas the region of the ASEAN members but is at the U.N. as well and that has a relationship with North Korea that many other countries dont have, Thayer said. North Korea irks the United States by test-firing missiles near Japan and South Korea. Meetings in 2018 and 2019 between U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un failed to stop the tests. U.S. arms control envoys seldom bring up their top agenda item, denuclearization, with smaller countries, Vuving said. Vietnam has missile defense systems but no nukes. It operates the worlds 22nd most powerful armed forces, according to the GlobalFirePower.com database. China was the chief talking point, Billingslea said on the media call Friday. We are talking about a dangerous, revisionist power that is engagedin a secretive nuclear weapons buildup and a massive missile production program, Billingslea said. China has reneged on promises related to peace in the disputed sea, he added, and Beijing challenges freedom of navigation. The envoy linked North Korea to a number of significant challenges with regard to nuclear weapons. Chinese landfilling of disputed South China Sea islets some for military use through 2017 rattled the other five claimants, including an ever-outspoken Vietnam. Chinese vessels have passed through the ocean economic zones of Vietnam, Malaysia and Indonesia this year. Claimant countries value the 3.5 million-square-kilometer sea for its fisheries and energy reserves. Washington has no claims to the sea but wants to stop rival world superpower China from gaining too much control offshore, analysts have said. The U.S. government in 2016 lifted a wartime embargo on selling Vietnam lethal weapons. The envoy now sees Vietnam as instrumental in checking Chinese actions because of its serial protests to Beijing, said Stephen Nagy, senior associate professor of politics and international studies at International Christian University in Tokyo. Billingslea probably wants Japan, South Korea and Vietnam to push back together against China, Nagy said. I think that if they can get (Vietnam) on the same page of the book, that this will be important in terms of drawing the red lines such that China will cease, or pull back or stop being engaging in such provocative behavior in the Indo-Pacific region in general, Nagy said. After the news of Disney laying off thousands of its employees across their Central Florida and California theme parks due to the coronavirus outbreak, Disney bloggers Sarah and Tom Bricker reached out online to raise over $40,000 for their local food bank. According to their website DisneyTouristBlog.co, Sarah and Tom Bricker founded the site in 2011 and since then have posted informative tips and opinions about all things Disney to like-minded fans and tourists planning trips to Disney Parks. When the blogger couple heard about Disneys lay-off plans, they lost no time in starting a virtual fundraiser drive for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. The food bank has been instrumental in feeding Florida residents affected by the pandemic. The Central Florida couple donated $500 to the cause and have since reached out to their fanbase and netizens at large to donate generously. They prompted others to join them in helping and giving back to those who made so much magic for us all over the years, as the Brickers added on their blog. The couples initial target was to raise $2,000, but they exceeded the figure quickly due to widespread donations. The food bank has doubled its daily distribution relief efforts from 150,000 to 300,000 meals a day, according the Erika Spence, spokesperson of the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Spence while speaking to CNN said the Brickers started the fundraising page to support local tourism workers who were economically impacted by recent theme park layoffs. They have raised $25,000 within 24 hours and as of Sunday morning the amount swelled to $37,000, Spence added. And by Sunday evening, the donation drive had reached over $40,000. Sarah and Tom are overwhelmed with the outpouring love and generosity received so far. Speaking to CNN, the couple have specifically asked Second Harvest to earmark these funds for the employees of area theme parks and they didnt; want to exclude anyone. Federal Circuit Court Judge Guy Andrew has gone missing, sparking a widespread search after his car was found abandoned on the side of the road. Judge Andrew last seen leaving his home in Brisbane's north early on Sunday morning heading toward Mt Coot-tha, where he takes his morning walk. His car was found at 2pm on Monday at Dillon Rd, The Gap, but he has not been seen since. Judge Andrew is described as white, 176cm tall with grey hair and brown eyes. Federal Circuit Court Judge Guy Andrew has gone missing sparking a widespread search after his car was found abandoned on the side of the road Police and family hold grave concerns for his welfare. Judge Andrew dealt with six family court matters in the Brisbane Federal Circuit Court on Friday. Last month two lawyers complained about Judge Andrew's behaviour, prompting counselling and mentoring for him. In September's judgement, the full bench found Judge Andrew had shown apprehended bias and abused his power when presiding over a family law case. A three-judge bench ruled there was 'no basis' for Judge Andrew's 'cruel, insulting, humiliating and rude' comments. Lawyers representing the father in the case said Judge Andrew's conduct denied him a fair trial. Judge Andrew was appointed as the sole Federal Circuit Court judge in Townsville in March last year. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact police. New Delhi, Oct 5 : Aam Aadmi Party MLA Kuldeep Kumar, who was found Covid positive just five days ago, on Monday landed up at the Hathras gang-rape victim's home to meet her family. Kumar, MLA from Kondli Assembly seat in Delhi, along with dozens of his supporters reached Hathras. Kumar also made public the identity of the victim as he tweeted mentioning the victim's name. He even tagged Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in these tweets. Despite being found Covid positive, Kumar met the family members of the victim. He also took several photos and videos of the meeting which he shared on social media. Kumar confirmed meeting the victim's family and said, "I have come to meet the victim's family in Hathras. Fear is being created within the family. It is a murder of democracy and the Constitution." Surprisingly, only five days ago Kumar had stated he was Covid positive. The AAP MLA had said on social media on September 29, "I had a Covid-19 test because of mild fever for the last two days. The report has come positive. After this I will be in home isolation. All those who have met me in the last 2-3 days must get their test done." Kumar, who had claimed to be in home isolation, did not respond when contacted on information about him being corona positive. Despite this, he went to the victim's house flouting all rules and regulations and putting the family at risk as well. His negligence did not end there. He also made the victim's name public on social media. He also tagged Kejriwal, AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh and the party's official Twitter handle. When Kumar was contacted on phone, he did not answer. Kumar is the chief of the Aam Aadmi Party's SC/ST unit in Delhi and is also the party's spokesperson. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Tasmanian devils have been reintroduced to the Australian mainland after a gap of 3,000 years. Conservationists released dozens of the beleaguered marsupials into a 400-hectare wild sanctuary north of Sydney. Experts at Aussie Ark, an organisation set up a decade ago to save the Tasmanian devil from extinction, said they had successfully carried out the first of three planned reintroductions which involved the release of 26 devils in July and September into the Barrington Tops national park. The area is described as the perfect breeding environment for devils with vegetation that is similar to Tasmania and cool, wet and snowy conditions. Their ambitious re-wilding plan is described as a historic first step in protecting an animal which researchers have warned is at serious risk of extinction from a highly contagious facial tumour disease. Recommended Healthy Tasmanian Devils found in major breakthrough for mission to save species from extinction Over the next two years, an additional 40 healthy devils will be released into the wild in two stages. Each of the animals will be monitored through regular surveys, radio collars fitted with transmitters and camera traps, giving the researchers information on how the devils are faring, where they are claiming territory and whether they are reproducing. This first historic release is only step one in our mission to rewild Australia and bring balance to the bush, the organisation said. If all goes as planned, the animals will breed and produce joeys, eventually resulting in a self-sustaining wild population. Wildlife of the world Show all 19 1 /19 Wildlife of the world Wildlife of the world A macaque monkey family Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world A vulturine guinea fowl in Maasai Mara Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world A lilac-breasted roller in Kenya Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world An African elephant family in Kenya Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world A male lion sits in the shade in Maasai Mara, Kenya Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world Ostrich in Maasai Mara, Kenya Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world Three macaque monkeys at a temple In Nepal Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world A baby monkey clings to its parent in Nepal Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world Giraffes at the Soysambu Conservancy northwest of Nairobi Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world Zebras in a conservancy in Nairobi, Kenya Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world Orphaned Southern White Rhino in South Africa Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world Two rescued grey-headed flying foxes in Sydney, Australia Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world A bull frog in a marsh in the US Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world Two orphaned Southern White Rhinoceros at Rhino Revolution in Hoedspruit, South Africa Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world An African elephant and her calf in Maasai Mara, Kenya Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world A macaque monkey with blossom in Nepal Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world Thomson's gazelle graze antlers in Kenya Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world A juvenile male lion on tree branch in Kenya Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals Wildlife of the world A wild bird at Ngamba Island Sanctuary, Uganda Jo-Anne McArthur / We Animals The reintroduction of devils is positive not only for their species but for the health of Australias wildlife populations more generally. As an alpha predator - one which sits at the top of the food chain - and the worlds largest carnivorous marsupial, researchers hope the devils will play a key role in helping to control feral cats and foxes that threaten other endangered species. Aussie Ark president, Tim Faulkner, said: In 100 years, we are going to be looking back at this day as the day that set in motion the ecological restoration of an entire country. Last known footage of extinct Tasmanian Tiger released Tasmanian devils vanished entirely from mainland Australia due to competition by introduced dingoes, wild dogs which hunt in packs, and only survived in Tasmania because dingoes didnt reach the island. They also suffered from a painful and fatal disease called Devil Facial Tumour Disease - the only known contagious cancer - which saw the wild devil populations plummet by up to 90 per cent. Aussie Ark said just 25,000 wild devils remain in Tasmania today. Last month, crest-tailed mulgaras, a smaller marsupial which is related to the Tasmanian devil, were reintroduced to western New South Wales after more than a century. A project by the University of New South Wales and the states government saw 19 of the mouse-sized mammals released into a 2000-hectare site within the Sturt National Park. Mulgaras have also struggled after being outcompeted for prey by packs of dingoes. By PTI INDORE: A 27-year-old woman from Indore in Madhya Pradesh has lodged an FIR against her husband for giving her triple talaq, a practice now banned under law, police said on Monday. The couple got married on February 7, 2016. However, the woman left her husband's house in the state's Dewas district after the wedding due to alleged dowry harassment. The couple's ailing son also died during treatment some days back, Sadar Bazar police station in-charge Ajay Verma said. According to the complainant, her 30-year-old husband was planning to get married for the second time to marry a woman from Harda. But, the complainant got it cancelled by informing the Harda-based woman that the man was already married, the official said. This angered the man and he gave instant triple talaq to the complainant, saying she was not his wife any more, the police official said. The victim on Saturday lodged a police complaint, based on which an FIR was registered against her husband under the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act, 2019 and Indian Penal Code Section 506 (criminal intimidation), the official said. Triple talaq, or the practice of instant divorce among Muslims, is an offence punishable with jail term of up to three years. (Newser) The Supreme Court opens a new term with Republicans on the cusp of realizing a dream 50 years in the making, a solid conservative majority that might roll back abortion rights, expand gun rights, and shrink the power of government. Eight justices are getting back to work Monday at a most unusual, politically fraught moment in American history, the AP reports. They're still mourning the death of their colleague Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the leader of the court's liberal wing. They're working in the midst of a pandemic that has forced the court to drastically change the way it conducts business. And the presidential election is less than a month away. President Trump's nominee for Ginsburg's seat, Judge Amy Coney Barrett, could be on the bench in time for one of the term's biggest cases, post-Election Day arguments in the latest Republican bid to strike down the Affordable Care Act, which provides more than 20 million people with health insurance. story continues below The court will begin the term the way it ended the last one, meeting by telephone due to COVID-19 and allowing the public to listen live to arguments. The term is so far short on high-profile cases, but that could change quickly because of the prospect of court involvement in lawsuits related to the election. Trump has said he wants Barrett in place soon so that she could be among nine justices, including his other appointees Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh, who weigh in on any voting cases. High-court involvement in the election could make this the most tumultuous and divisive term since the Supreme Court decided Bush v. Gore 20 years ago and effectively determined who would become president of the United States, said Irv Gornstein, a Georgetown University law professor. The AP takes a look at the big issues on the high court's agenda here. (Read more US Supreme Court stories.) Election 2020 Election 2020: The Week in Review -- YANGON Election 2020: The Week in Review offers a summary of the most important developments related to the 2020 election during the past week the stories readers should not miss if they want to understand the electoral landscape. This week (between Sept. 19 and Sept. 25), the election commission dismissed calls for an election postponement over COVID-19; election-related violence was on the rise; a controversial party with a shady background came into the spotlight; and censorship of televised campaign speeches drew criticism. No election delay for COVID-19: UEC Saturday (Sept. 19) Myanmars Union Election Commission (UEC) rejected pro-military and a few other parties calls to postpone Novembers general election over COVID-19. The UEC said it wouldnt postpone the election as a whole or in any constituency because of COVID-19, while pledging to ensure all necessary disease-prevention measures are taken at polling stations for the safety of both voters and polling station officials. Read the full article here. - Election-related violence on rise Sunday (Sept. 20) More election-related violence including the use of hand grenades to intimidate an election official and rioting were reported over last weekend. Two unexploded hand grenades were discovered at Naypyitaw Election Sub-Commission Chairman U Thein Htwes home. The first grenade was found late on Saturday night and the second one was discovered at noon on Sunday, both of which were reportedly thrown into the compound from the street. In Meiktila of Mandalay Region, a USDP stronghold, hundreds of USDP supporters rioted at noon on Sunday, throwing rocks at the home of an NLD supporter. The USDP claimed NLD supporters in the village initiated the clash by obstructing their movements. At least six USDP campaigners were arrested. Read the other incidents of election violence reported since Sept. 8 here. - UDP, or Rose Party, in spotlight The United Democratic Party, better known as the Rose Party, came into the spotlight this week, with media reports focusing on the fact that the party will field more than 1,130 candidates nationwide the second largest number after the ruling National League for Democracyand its leaders shady background. The less well-known party was established by U Kyaw Myint, also known as Michael Kyaw Myint or Michael Hua Huwho was widely reported as an escapee from prison after being sentenced for running a company, Myanmar Kyone Yeom, that was involved in money laundering for the United Wa State Army (UWSA) in the 1990s. The UDP is campaigning with a promise that they will put the country ahead of Singapore within five years. You can put our partys chairman into jail if we fail to improve the country within five years. And you can take down and put our partys signboard into the fire, reads one of its campaign messages. Read more about U Kyaw Myint here. - UEC accused of censorship Four political parties: the Democratic Party for a New Society (DPNS), Arakan National Party (ANP), National Democratic Force (NDF) and Dawei Nationalities Party (DNP) said they faced censorship by the UEC in their televised campaign speeches, criticizing the act as oppression that harms freedom of speech. The parties said they were told to remove or change the words including civil war, oppressed and ignored as well as to take out the parts or lines telling about childrens rights in Myanmar, controversial business projects affecting citizens; low public interest in the election due to COVID-19 and conflict and inequalities. The DNPS has boycotted the broadcast due to censorship. From Sept. 8 to Nov. 6, political parties running in the election are allowed to deliver campaign speeches and explain their policies in 15-minute broadcasts. So far, 35 parties have taken part. Under campaign broadcast rules, parties must submit a script for the broadcast for the approval of the UEC. Read the story about the partys boycott of the broadcast due to censorship here. - Early voting dates for Myanmar nationals overseas set Early voting for the Nov. 8 general election will be held at the Myanmar Embassy in Bangkok from Oct. 3-13, according to a labor rights advocate who was given the information by Ambassador U Myo Myint Than during a meeting on Thursday. While for Myanmar nationals in Singapore, where more than 37,000 applied for early voting, it is set for Oct. 1-18, according to the website of the Myanmar Embassy in Singapore. And in South Korea, the registered voters will be able to cast early votes from Oct. 2-5 and Oct. 9-12, and in Malaysia it is set for Oct. 9-11, according to the Facebook pages of the Myanmar embassies in South Korea and Malaysia. Read related story here. - More election related stories this week: For Myanmar Voters, the Election Is a Chance to Cast a Ballot for Democracy Itself For most voters in Myanmar, election day is a chance not only to vote for their chosen candidates, but to express their rejection of the authoritarian rule of the past. Karen Ethnic Affairs Minister Candidates in Myanmars Yangon Square Off in Online Debate Three candidates cover a wide range of issues while spelling out their differences of opinion. Candidates From Four Parties in Myanmars Kachin State Face Off in Debate Three hopefuls from popular ethnic parties and a ruling party lawmaker touted their policies and grilled one another in a pre-election debate in Kachin State on Monday. You may also like these stories: Many Myanmar Migrants in Thailand To Be Denied Vote as Extra Polling Stations Ruled Out Violence Erupts Shortly After Myanmar Political Parties Hit Campaign Trail Man With Shady Background Behind a Political Party in Myanmar T Muruganandham By Express News Service CHENNAI: Hours after Deputy Chief Minister O Panneerselvam tweeted that he would take a good decision in the coming days, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami went into a huddle with senior ministers at the secretariat. The meeting assumes significance in the wake of the ongoing row over the Chief Minister candidate of the AIADMK for the 2021 Assembly elections. The Ministers taking part in the discussions are KA Sengottaiyan, Dindigul Seenivasan, CVe Shanmugam, P Thangamani, SP Velumani, KT Rajenthra Bhalaji, and Vellamandi N Natarajan. This morning, breaking his silence after a week since the row over the Chief Ministerial candidate of the AIADMK began, Panneerselvam said: So far my decisions have been in the interest of the people of Tamil Nadu and the AIADMK cadre. It will be so in the coming days too. Whatever happened, happened for the good. Whatever is happening, is happening for the good. Whatever will happen, will also happen for the good. He tweeted this after a series of meetings with the partys senior functionaries in Chennai as well as at his farmhouse in Periyakulam during the past few days. However, he did not mention the CM candidate issue explicitly in the tweet. Panneerselvam's message just two days ahead of the announcement of the CM candidate has caused further confusion among the AIADMK cadre about his stand -- whether he is intending to take a different decision in the coming days or has arrived at a consensus formula. At Theni, a lengthy banner hailing the 'Future CM of Tamil Nadu' put up by his followers was removed after Panneerselvams advice. People welcomed his car by bursting crackers. Panneerselvam also told reporters that he would be heading for Chennai this afternoon. On September 28, after heated exchanges in the executive committee meeting, the partys deputy coordinator KP Munusamy announced that both Panneerselvam and Palaniswami would make the announcement regarding the Chief Ministerial candidate of the party on October 7. Political analyst Tharasu Shyam told The New Indian Express, Practically speaking if the announcement is made about Chief Ministerial candidate now, it will create confusion in the government administration. Such an announcement may paralyse the government machinery. So, if Panneerselvam has to take a decision in the interest of the people when the state faces the COVID threat, it would be allowing the continuance of the status quo -- accepting Edappadi K Palaniswami as the CM candidate and strengthening himself in the party through other means. Shyam also said instead of forming a steering committee which would become one more layer of party apparatus, the existing AIADMKs parliamentary board which takes key decisions could be expanded to avoid any controversy. MILFORD Winston, a 2-year-old white French Bulldog deserves some bragging rights these days. He was just voted one of the top 60 dogs out of at least 1,000 others in a national dog competition called America's Favorite Pet, according Milford resident Joseph Salzillo, Winstons owner. The public was allowed to vote on Facebook for Winston one vote per person, per day. The voting was free. Salzillo first learned of the competition, which also was free to enter, in early September, and entered Winston by submitting Winstons photo. I had never done anything like this before, said Salzillo, 35. There also was a competition for cats being held at the same time, for Americas Favorite Cat. In addition to the free voting, there was an option to pay to vote, and a portion of the proceeds went to paws.org, which helps dogs in need. Helps to have friends Salzillo asked everyone he knew to vote for Winston and then some. Colleagues, family, dog breeders, friends, friends of friends, people on Facebook as the weeks went by, I got more and more people to vote for him, Salzillo said. Winston sometimes got a few hundred votes a day, according to Salzillo. Each week, there would be an elimination process, but Winston held his own and remained in the competition for five weeks. All competitors were placed into smaller groups, of eight. There was a winner in each group, each week. As they advanced, they were placed in a new group. Winston kept winning. He made it to the quarter finals, Salzillo said. I would get notifications on email that he made it to the next round, he said. The semi-finals ended Thursday night at 11 p.m. That evening, it was a very tight race, Salzillo said. While Winston was in second place all week, he jumped up to first place for one hour, he added. Then, the other dog who had originally been in first must have gotten a surge of votes in and took first place. Salzillo was able to see who was voting for Winston on the dashboard of the America's Favorite Pet site. As you refresh your page, it will tell you if your dog has changed positions or not, he said. It was nerve wracking. Winston lost the semi-finals to Fuzzy Bear, a shelter dog from Los Angeles. Throughout it all, while Salzillo said he was excited Winston was getting so many votes, he said that in these challenging times, he mainly felt good to see people come together for a simple thing like voting for an animal. You felt the love, said Salzillo, who works as a physician assistant in Orange. He also owns pet fish that he keeps in an aquarium in his living room. The final voting round of the competition will take place through Oct. 8. The winning dog will get to take home $5,000 and will be featured in Dogster Magazine. Although Winston wont have earned any money from his experience, he will, however, be receiving dog treats, according to Salzillo. Grateful and blessed Salzillo said he feels grateful and blessed that so many people voted for Winston. Something like this it makes you realize how people really care about me, he said. Even though they are voting for a dog, they are really voting for me. He added that Winston has given him a lot of joy in life, and has gotten him through some tough times. Hes always there for me. He got me through a dark area in my life, Salzillo said. Hes like my therapy. He has been a rock for me, Salzillo added. Winston has a large following on both Facebook and Instagram, according to Salzillo. Fans can reach Winston on both by searching: Winston Jack Frenchie. Had Winston won the competition, Salzillo said he would have donated the prize money to Born This Way Foundation, which helps young people who suffer from mental health issues. Salzillo described Winston as a very mellow dog, just like Winston Churchill, he said with a chuckle . Hes a couch potato and likes to look out the window at squirrels all day long, Salzillo added. Hes a very well mannered dog. Hes very friendly, loves going up to random strangers, and likes to be a jokester. While Salzillo said he enjoyed the experience of the competition, he said he doesnt think he would enter Winston in it again in the future. I already know (he) is a winner, Salzillo said. No matter what, me and my dog are very loved. That, to me, is the biggest prize I could ever ask for. sfox@milfordmirror.com Welcome to Morningstar.co.uk! You have been redirected here from Hemscott.com as we are merging our websites to provide you with a one-stop shop for all your investment research needs.To search for a security, type the name or ticker in the search box at the top of the page and select from the dropdown results.Registered Hemscott users can log in to Morningstar using the same login details. Similarly, if you are a Hemscott Premium user, you now have a Morningstar Premium account which you can access using the same login details. Criminals including paedophiles and drug dealers are being handed a 'Covid bonus' of shorter sentences or avoiding jail entirely because coronavirus has led to difficult conditions in prisons. Since April, judges have been handing down shorter sentences after the Court of Appeal ruled that the impact of measures including prolonged cell confinement and restrictions on visitors to combat coronavirus could be taken into account when sentencing a man who had sexually abused a schoolgirl. According to The Times, criminals - including Romanian burglars and a criminal with 27 previous convictions - have had their sentences routinely reduced since then. It has also emerged that burglars who have been released from jail are to be fitted with GPS tags so they can be tracked 24 hours a day, according to policing minister Kit Malthouse. Criminals including paedophiles and drug dealers are being handed a 'Covid bonus' of shorter sentences or avoiding jail entirely because coronavirus has led to difficult conditions in prisons (file photo) He said the law would be changed through what is known as a statutory instrument to allow probation officers and police to force criminals to wear tags as a condition of them being freed on licence. But there have many examples of other criminals who have received lesser sentences. In April, Paul reed, 30, who had 27 previous convictions to his name, received a lesser sentence for assaulting a former partner. And last month, two burglars who wore balaclavas when terrorising a family at their home in Teeside were given shorter sentences which acknowledged that they were having to spend 23 hours a day in a cell because of Covid-19. In July, a sex offender who had tried to groom an underage girl was jailed for only 20 months because of the prison regime caused by Covid-19 and the fact he had pleaded guilty. In July a sex offender who was caught online trying to groom an under-age girl was jailed for 20 months, a reduction because of the Covid-19 prison regime and his guilty plea. Victims' commissioner Dame Vera Baird told The Times that there is a 'real danger that Covid expediency is taking precedence over real justice.' And Conservative MP Tim Loughton, a member of the home affairs select committee, said criminals were enjoying a 'special summer sale' and a 'Covid bonus' which sent out the wrong message. The examples come after the Court of Appeal said that coronavirus's impact on prison conditions was a valid factor for judges to consider when sentencing. The pandemic has put the already creaking prison system under intense pressure. In May, it emerged that prisoners with coronavirus symptoms were locked in cells for up to two weeks without being allowed out to shower. A month earlier, it emerged that more than half of prisons in the UK were infected with coronavirus. Since April, judges have been handing down shorter sentences after the Court of Appeal ruled that the impact of measures including prolonged cell confinement and restrictions on visitors to combat coronavirus could be taken into account when sentencing a man who had sexually abused a schoolgirl. Pictured: Wandsworth Prison But in a move which could see released prisoners returned to jails, Mr Malthouse said he wanted all freed burglars to be forced to wear tags, The Telegraph reported. This would mean police forces could monitor the movements of criminals whilst checking every burglary in their area to see if they may be suspects. Refusal to wear the tag would breach the criminals' licence, meaning they would be sent back to prison. 'By adjusting the law - we can do it by statutory instrument - it will then allow us to put the tag on every burglar's ankle for a period after their release on licence, 'In simple terms, it can tell all police forces whether a former burglar has been in their area and they can match it up with burglary data. 'Fifty per cent of burglaries are done by former burglars. It should be a major deterrent to them going out and plying their previous trade.' Initially, the tagging will be trialled by six police forces, but Mr Malthouse wants it to end up a blanket policy for all burglars. Figures from 2017 revealed that less than one in 20 burglaries are solved. Srinagar, Oct 5 : It has been over one year since Jammu and Kashmir lost its special status, but politically the union territory continues to be a jigsaw puzzle whose pieces do not seem to fall in place sometime soon. Having ruled the state for over 70 years harping on the special status protected by Articles 370 and 35A, both of which were abrogated on August 5, 2019, regional political parties and even the mainstream political parties, are still undecided about the way forward. The largest regional political party, the National Conference (NC), headed by Dr. Farooq Abdullah, wants the Pre-August 5, 2019 status restored before a genuine political process can be restated in J&K. Joining chorus with the NC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) headed by Mehbooba Mufti, Peoples Conference (PC) headed by Sajad Gani Lone, Awami National Conference (ANC) headed by Khalida Shah, the CPI-M, etc., have supported the restoration of J&K's special status by pledging support to the 'Gupkar Declaration'. The declaration wants Articles 370, 35A and statehood restored as a pre-condition for these parties to join any future political process. While the Congress does not publicly support the restoration of 370 and 35A for obvious reasons, yet the party has stated that the manner in which these changes were brought in has left everything to be desired. Known otherwise to hedge his bets, Farooq Abdullah recently went too far by saying that the mistrust between Delhi and Srinagar has grown so deep that 'Kashmiris would rather like to be ruled by China'. Insiders attribute the hardening of anti-Delhi posture by Abdullah to his son, Omar Abdullah, who reportedly believes that after August 5, 2019, Delhi has choked the space in which pro-India regional parties could operate in Kashmir. Apni Party, headed by former minister and senior PDP leader, Syed Altaf Bukhari, is the only regional party that advocates moving ahead to bring in a political government to address the problems faced by the people. Bukhari says what happened on August 5, 2019 was a disaster, but we must move ahead without giving up on the demand to restore whatever was taken away. "The Supreme Court of the country is to decide on whether the abrogation of 370 was constitutional or not. All of us must have faith in the apex court and its decision must be binding on us. The special status was abrogated by the Parliament and after that the only constitutional recourse is to approach the Supreme Court which we have done. "Constitutional matters will have to be decided constitutionally", Bukhari told IANS while setting aside reports that his party was okay with the abrogation of J&K's special status. In contrast to the Apni Party, all other regional political players are facing an inertia of sorts which prevents them from facing the people after they lost what they believed to be their 'raison d'etre' to exist as Pro-Kashmir parties without supporting separatism. While restoration of statehood is achievable, the restoration of 370 and 35A are ruled out even by the most optimistic political observers. "Our problem is that once we give up on our demand for restoration of J&K's special status, we logically cease to be a regional party. "How would we be different from those in the BJP after we agree to forget August 5, 2019", said a senior NC leader. The BJP is categorical that Articles 370 and 35A are done and dusted and there is no way these can be restored. The biggest problem for the BJP in Kashmir is that it has not been able to catch the imagination of the common man, despite a deep feeling of betrayal towards the NC and other regional parties. The BJP is still far away from anchoring itself on the ground in Kashmir while its political base in the Jammu division has been bruised instead of getting strengthened after J&K became a union territory. The PDP as a political party stands decimated so far as its top leadership is concerned, but the PDP's loss has not been the BJP's gain. The NC has suffered a serious ground erosion and yet it remains in one piece as a political entity in both the regions of J&K. After having demonised the NC and the PDP as political extensions of family rule and corruption, the BJP will find it literally impossible to work out any future arrangement with either of them. The detention of regional political leaders for nearly one year after August 5, 2019 has not generated a groundswell for the BJP in Kashmir. These realities do not augur well for an early political process getting underway in J&K. Holding Assembly elections will have to be a people participative process and cannot be done to the exclusion of all the regional parties, especially when a viable alternative to the well entrenched ones is yet to emerge. This is a political jigsaw puzzle for Delhi whose pieces do not seem to fall in place some time soon. -- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed New Delhi: Labour Minister Santosh Gangwar on Monday said the money collected from compounding of offences under labour laws would be used towards the social security fund (SSF) to implement welfare schemes for unorganised workers. Parliament passed the Code on Social Security in the monsoon session which concluded last month. It provides for creating an SSF to implement social security schemes for unorganised sector workers, gig workers and platform workers. There are around 40 crore informal workers in the country. It has been provided in the Code that the SSF would created by funds received from "the composition (compounding) of the offences (under labour laws)", among other sources like central and state government funding. Similar provisions have been provided in the other two codes on industrial relations and occupational safety, health and working conditions (OSH). "We have provided for compounding of offences to reduce pendency of litigations (related to labour) and speedy disposal of such cases. The money collected from compounding of offences would be used to fund social security fund for unorganised workers," Gangwar said. He was addressing the 86th AGM of the All India Organisation of Employers (AIOE). The minister further said, "Many schemes would be designed by using this social security fund. This is an example, how we struck a right balance between needs of employer and employees while making provisions in the (labour) laws." The AIOE, which is an allied body of industry chamber Ficci, held its annual general meeting (AGM) on the theme of 'Labour Reforms: Meeting the Challenges during and Post-COVID'. On this occasion, Dagmar Walter, Director - ILO DWT for South Asia and Country Office for India, said, "The labour reforms in the post COVID-19 scenario need to ensure sustainable solutions, which are capacitated to protect the most vulnerable. We will need measures ensuring the development of a just and inclusive society. We need to respond to new emerging market challenges but with efforts informed by strong evidences and dialogue processes." "The success of the new labour codes will primarily depend upon its implementation strategy, capacity of local and state institutions and participation of social partners," she added. The government is in the process of implementing the four labour codes on wages, industrial relations, social security and OSH. The Code on Wages, 2019 was passed last year and its draft rules were notified. The government has finalised the rules on the Code on Wages which would be implemented with final rules of other three codes as these laws are inter-linked. The Centre plans to operationalise all the four labour codes by implementing rules for the same by December this year. . Following an emergency meeting on Sunday to discuss the rapid spike in the daily number of confirmed cases, the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) has recommended the entire country moves to the highest level of restrictions in the Government's Living with Covid Plan. Under Level Five, all but essential retail stores would close, with workers in all bar essential service role having to work remotely. Cafes, bars and restaurants would also only be permitted to provide takeaway services and travel would be limited to within 5km of your home for exercise. However, Ibec says after six months people are still getting vague and changing criteria in the fight against the spread of the virus. It comes as the group is predicting a smaller than expected decline of just 2.6 per cent in the Irish economy next year. Advertisement Ibec is calling for a cut in the VAT rate to 9 per cent in next week's Budget to try and prop up hospitality businesses. The business lobby group's chief economist Ger Brady says the pandemic has created two completely different economies. "A number of sectors, particularly the hospitality and travel sector have done really poorly and paid for the significant economic hit on the back of public health measures. "Other sectors, particularly the exports sectors, are proving really resilient, so over all you are seeing what we are calling a K-shaped recovery where there is a growing gap between different companies and different sets of workers depending on how exposed you are to the public health measures." Honestly, Ive been kind of struggling, said Andrew, who declined to share his last name for fear of being doxed, or having his personal information shared online, by left-wing activists. The Army gave me a sense of purpose, like I was doing something good. Whats worth doing now? Thats kind of what brought me here. I finally feel like guarding this Shell station is something I can do to help. Preserving our way of life is worthwhile. At least nine people have been killed in heavy flooding in France and Italy, after a storm swept through the two countries over the weekend. Images showed houses significantly damanged, trees toppled, and cars and roads submerged in mud. The death toll rose to at least nine after a womans body was discovered on Monday in the Mediterranean Sea around Imperia in the Italian region of Liguria. Around 20 people were feared missing, authorities said. The bodies of five men were found on Sunday in the sea near San Remo, on the beach in the Italian border town of Ventimiglia and along the Imperia coast. The severe flooding devastated areas in Frances southeastern Alpes-Maritimes region, as well as Liguria and Piedmonth in Italys northwest. Piles of trees cover a road beside La Vesubie river in Saint-Jean-la-Riviere in France (AP) In France, firefighters in the Alpes-Maritimes region were still searching for at least eight people missing who witnesses described as possibly being carried off by floodwaters. They include two firefighters whose vehicle fell into the water as the road collapsed. French rescuers are seeking to locate 12 other people whose families have not heard of them since the storm, which blocked roads and cut off communications. Cars were submerged in mud in Breil-sur-Roya in southeastern France following the flooding (AFP via Getty Images) Rescuers had found the body of a man whose car had been washed away by a torrent in Saint-Martin-Vesubie, one of the hardest-hit villages, where several houses and a bridge were destroyed by raging water. Authorities also found the body of a shepherd who had disappeared in the mountains between France and Italy. A volunteer firefighter was also killed in Val dAosta in Italy during a rescue operation over the weekend. Additional reporting by Associated Press WESTFIELD, Mass., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The registered nurses of Baystate Noble Hospital and State Senator John Velis will host a Virtual Community Forum on the Future of Baystate Noble Hospital on Tuesday, Oct. 6 at 6 p.m. following the release of a survey showing Westfield area residents overwhelmingly support nurses' efforts to preserve and improve patient care services at Noble in the face of cutbacks by hospital owner Baystate Health. Senator Velis and the Noble nurses will be joined by a panel of community leaders and advocates who will speak to their experiences with hospital services. Members of the public and the media can join the forum on Tuesday at 6 p.m. here: www.massnurses.org/NobleZoom. The forum will also be streamed live on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MassNurses. "Our nurses are fighting for a fair contract that will protect and improve patient care at Noble Hospital and properly value our work on the frontlines of healthcare," said Paul Dubin, an RN and MNA Co-Chair at Noble. "Baystate Health is going in the opposite direction and is instead cutting services and trying to devalue the high-quality care nurses have provided patients during the pandemic and always. Together with our community we will make positive change and secure the future of our hospital." Virtual Community Forum on the Future of Baystate Noble Hospital When: 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2020 Where: A virtual forum hosted on Zoom and shared on social media. The public and media are welcome to participate. How: Link to join: www.massnurses.org/NobleZoom. Share testimony ahead of time: https://forms.gle/Yx6rhBSQVe4VSsDo7 Who: State Senator John Velis will host the forum with the RNs of Baystate Noble Hospital, and it will include as panelists: Paul Dubin , Noble nurse, MNA Co-Chair at the hospital , Noble nurse, MNA Co-Chair at the hospital Mary Martin , Noble ED nurse , Noble ED nurse Keith Supinski , President of IAFF 1111 , President of IAFF 1111 Mary Ann Babinski , community leader and former Westfield City Councilor , community leader and former Westfield City Councilor Alex Morse , Holyoke Mayor , Tracy Opalinski , former Ware select board member and a leader of the Keep Care Local campaign at Mary Lane Hospital , former Ware select board member and a leader of the Keep Care Local campaign at Mary Lane Hospital Lauren Woodard , Program Coordinator at Forum House, a recovery and employment services center that serves the Westfield area A survey of more than 460 community members distributed by Noble nurses showed overwhelming public support for keeping care local, ensuring safe patient care, and supporting Noble nurses as they fight for preserving and improving hospital services and patient care conditions. Learn more: https://bit.ly/2SgSfHv. MassNurses.org Facebook.com/MassNurses Twitter.com/MassNurses Instagram.com/MassNurses Founded in 1903, the Massachusetts Nurses Association is the largest union of registered nurses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Its 23,000 members advance the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting the economic and general welfare of nurses in the workplace, projecting a positive and realistic view of nursing, and by lobbying the Legislature and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public. SOURCE Massachusetts Nurses Association Related Links http://www.massnurses.org TDT | Manama, His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, HM the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs representative, has praised a Bahraini hearing-impaired young woman for her courage and outstanding to overcome difficulties despite her physical challenges. Bahraini citizen Mariam Fouad Shehab has shown that with love, determination, and persistence, there is no despair, said HH Shaikh Nasser, adding that her story is an example to be emulated. Mariam has set the most amazing examples thanks to her sense of defiance, her determination, and her ability to achieve her goals. She has a strong spirit that says no to the impossible, HH Shaikh Nasser said. Mariam was born with a hearing problem, but she refused to let her challenge keep her behind and she asserted her way through public schools and a private university. She talked about her life in a highly emotional six-minute video that went viral in Bahrain. HH Shaikh Nasser expressed his happiness with her persistence, posted Mariams video, and urged her to remain strong and to keep saying no to the impossible in his comments. He also praised Mariams father for providing exceptional care to his daughter throughout her life, which confirms his deep love for her and his eagerness to support her to achieve her goals. In the clip, Mariam said that she never felt she was different from any other person, explaining that to her, the handicap is the handicap of the mind, not of the body. Her father said that she had lived a happy childhood and felt her handicap only when she started mixing with other people. However, she was shielded by the love and care of her family and her strong personality, he said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Dzulfiqar Fathur Rahman (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 6 2020 Consumer goods giant PT Unilever Indonesia announced on Friday its plan to appoint a new president director, president commissioner and director in a leadership change. Outgoing president director Hemant Bakshi is resigning from the post he has held since 2014 and will assume a leadership role at Unilevers global division, which supervises the companys Indonesian branch. He will also replace Maurits Lalisang as Unilever Indonesias president commissioner. Ira Noviarti, who currently serves as a director for the companys beauty and personal care business, will be the new president director. She currently supervises the companys soap brand Lifebuoy and toothpaste Pepsodent, among other products. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login 404 Page not found It looks like you found a glitch in the page... WASHINGTON Claiming progress in his personal fight against COVID-19, President Donald Trump ventured outside for a little bit on Sunday to greet supporters who gathered at the hospital before then returning to the facility. Trump, wearing a suit and a mask, waved to supporters from the back seat of an SUV as it passed by the demonstration at the Walter Reed medical center in Bethesda, Maryland. "I also think we're going to pay a little surprise to some of the great patriots that we have out on the street. They've been out there for a long time and they've got Trump flags and they love our country," Trump said in a video recorded at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center moments before he was spotted outside. White House spokesman Judd Deere said the president had returned to his suite inside the hospital after the "short, last-minute ride to wave to his supporters." "It's been a very interesting journey, I learned a lot about COVID," Trump said in pre-recorded remarks. "I learned it by really going to school. This is the real school. This isn't the let's-read-the-book school, and I get it, and I understand it." Trump's video came hours after Navy commander and White House physician Sean Conley said the president could be discharged as early as Monday. Conley said Trump received supplemental oxygen on Friday after the president had a "high fever" and his oxygen levels dipped below 94%. He said Trump experienced another drop in oxygen on Saturday, but did not discuss treatment. The president was given the steroid dexamethasone on Saturday following his oxygen drop. The World Health Organization recommends the drug only for "severe and critical" cases. Trump also completed his second dose of the antiviral drug remdesivir on Saturday and will continue his five-day course of remdesivir. Story continues President Trump waves to the crowd outside of Walter Reed Medical Center on Oct. 4, 2020 Trump also said in his video remarks that he visited some of the soldiers and first responders at Walter Reed, raising questions about whether he should be in contact with others when federal health guidance directs those infected with COVID-19 to quarantine and isolate themselves from other people. Critics said Trump put Secret Service and hospital personnel at risk with his brief jaunt to see supporters. Dr. James P. Phillips, an attending physician at Walter Reed, pointed out that the presidential SUV is "hermetically sealed against chemical attack," which raises the chance of transmission of COVID-19. "Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary presidential 'drive-by' just now has to be quarantined for 14 days," said Phillips, who is also the chief of disaster medicine at George Washington University Emergency Medicine. "They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity." Jonathan Reiner, professor of medicine and surgery at George Washington University, said Trump's short trip put Secret Service members at risk. "By taking a joy ride outside Walter Reed the president is placing his Secret Service detail at grave risk. In the hospital when we go into close contact with a COVID patient we dress in full PPE: Gown, gloves, N95, eye protection, hat," he said. "This is the height of irresponsibility." Deere told USA TODAY that appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the President and all those supporting it, including PPE. The movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do. Commentator Tom Nichols said he found the move troubling. "A man with a dangerous and highly contagious disease, who is being treated for that disease with powerful drugs, wanted to be taken for a ride in a car so he could wave to gawking cult followers," said Nichols, author of the book "The Death of Expertise." He added: "As long as 40%of us are this stupid, we're in big trouble as a nation." The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests people who are sick or have recently come in contact with a COVID-19 patient should avoid all transportation options "that may put them in close contact with others." This is the third video in as many days from Trump. On Friday, he cut an 18-second video to announce he was going to the hospital before he was taken to the Walter Reed medical center. A day later, Trump taped a four-minute address to say he was "starting to feel good," looked forward to returning to the White House "soon," and made references to the ongoing presidential campaign. "I look forward to finishing up the campaign, the way it was started," Trump said. More: 'Starting to feel good.' Trump releases new video from Walter Reed amid COVID battle More: President Trump hospitalized at Walter Reed after testing positive for COVID-19 Already an underdog in his reelection race against Democrat Joe Biden, Trump will be sidelined for the time being by COVID-19 this after months of saying the nation was turning the corner against the virus. Trump's hospitalization also capped one of the most tumultuous weeks in political history. He tested positive just days aft The New York Times published his tax returns and a debate in which he took heat for constantly talking over Biden and botching the chance to condemn white supremacy. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump drives by supporters outside Walter Reed Kernel proposes to buy notes due in 2022 for up to $350 mln via issuing new five-seven year notes The \ Ukrainian agricultural holding Kernel plans to place senior notes in the amount of approximately $300-350 million for a period of five or seven years, a source in banking circles told Interfax-Ukraine on Monday. Investor calls will begin on October 6, 2020. The organizers of the issue are JPMorgan, Credit Agricole and Natixis. In parallel, Kernel announced the buyback of senior notes due in 2022 in the amount of up to $350 million. The early deadline is October 19. Kernel is a manufacturer and exporter of sunflower oil. If the Democrats were in charge of the the Sahara Desert, they'd be out of sand in two weeks, because they give everything away. Americans have suffered through the fake Russian Dossier, the made-up Adam Schiff "revisioned" version of the Ukraine Phone Call Transcript, the China Virus that President stopped from spreading by banning travel from China on Jan. 31, 2020, while being criticized by "Hollow Man" Joe Biden for doing so. During the Pandemic, President Trump sent the USNS Comfort to New York, the Mercy ship to Los Angeles, with beds and medical assistance. He also put a vaccine on a fast track development. The Obama/Biden or "Land of the Lost" administration had economic stagnation, ignored Blacks, spied on the Trump Campaign, ignored ISIS, stock market at a weak 18,000, FISA court abuse, Biden Family money scheme with China, Ukraine, etc. On the other hand, President Trump cut taxes, brought back 400 overseas companies, Black/Hispanic unemployment at a record low, made America energy independent, defeated ISIS, built 300 miles of Border Wall, VA reform, rebuilt the Military, reformed the Criminal Justice system, trade deal with Mexico and Canada (USMCA), took 4.6 million Americans off Food Stamps, 7 million new jobs, stock market record 28,000, brokered historic peace deal with Israel and United Arab Emirates, while Democrats selected a Socialist Basement Puppet for President. If "Smiling Lying Joe" wins, Democrat created "anarchy" in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, Portland and Kenosha will be the model for America. Our children thank you, Joe, for the preview of a Biden America. Bob Butera Kenosha Love 2 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 1 Angry 1 Catch the latest in Opinion Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. By Express News Service KOCHI: It was a do-or-die situation for Arjun who was suffering from breathing difficulty and lung distress for almost four years. He had to travel all the way from Rajasthan to Kerala for the surgery and it was not an easy ride for him. It was on August 24 that the 20-year-old who lives in Jalore, Rajasthan, developed sudden chest pain and severe breathlessness. He was rushed to the hospital and it was found that his left lung had ruptured. It had led to the accumulation of a large volume of air causing increased pressure inside the chest. The doctors immediately put in a tube into the chest to decompress the air. After three days, the chest drain was removed and he recovered. However, on August 27 he developed similar symptoms, and a tube was once again inserted. But his discomfort continued. Later it was found that he had a large hole in the lung which had to be repaired through surgery. Arjun had experienced the same problem in his opposite lung three years back while on a holiday in Kerala and chest tubes were inserted but he did not get much relief. He was referred to Dr. Nasser Yusuf, a cardiothoracic surgeon in Kochi, for further management. He underwent surgery successfully and thereafter traveled back home to Rajasthan. Recalling this traumatic experience, Arjun's father Rajan P who runs a private school in Jalore decided to seek the treatment of Dr. Nasser again. With a tube in his chest, Arjun and his family traveled by road for seven hours to Ahmedabad to catch a flight to Kochi. Despite the medical certificate issued by the hospital stating he was fit to travel, he was refused entry into the flight by airport officials because of the tube in his chest. After a series of discussions with the airport authorities, 24 hours later Arjun was permitted to board a flight to Kochi. On arrival, he got himself admitted to Sunrise Hospital in Kochi. During a routine checkup, he was found to be positive for COVID-19 which came as a surprise to the family as they had come from a green zone. He was put in institutional quarantine and treatment for 14 days. Thereafter he became COVID negative but the problem of bubbling of air in his chest remained. He had by now become weak, malnourished and infection had set in with pus draining out through the tube. Surgery was the only hope to save his life. Taking into account the deteriorating condition of the patient, emergency surgery was performed on September 18 by Dr Nasser. There was pus in the chest cavity, the lung was densely stuck to the heart with multiple bullae (balloon-like formations) on the lung surface of which one had ruptured. This was the cause of air leak and bubbling. The pus was completely drained, the lung freed, bullae removed and the hole in the lung repaired. The patient made a remarkable recovery and was discharged after a week. According to Dr. Nasser, the surgery was further complicated by COVID which primarily affects and damages the lung at times leading to death. "Operating on such COVID patients is a huge challenge. Usually, open surgery (30 cm long incision) is done which is accompanied by severe pain and delayed recovery. In Arjuns case, we successfully performed a keyhole surgery of the chest (minimally invasive thoracic surgery)," said Dr. Nasser. Dr. Shaji P G (anesthetist), Dr. Vineeth Alexander (pulmonologist) and Dr. Jithin Jose (intensivist) were also in the team treating Arjun. In the past few weeks, QAnona right-wing conspiracy premised on the idea that Donald Trump is working with military intelligence to bring down a global ring of child-eating pedophileshas been the object of considerable media speculation. Though the conspiracy has been around for years, QAnon has found new life with Instagram influencers, TikTok teens, and a shocking number of congressional candidates, more than a dozen of whom will appear on ballots in November. In terms of content, QAnon has quite a bit in common with other mostly online conspiracies, from 9/11 Truthers to Pizzagate. Arguably, though, what makes it distinct is the primary textQs drops, as they came to be knownthat holds the entire conspiracy together. Several times each week since late 2017, Q, an anonymous account claiming to be a Trump administration insider, posts on the imageboard 8Kun (previously 8Chan), a hub for the so-called alternative right. Qs submissions are obscure by design. Full of strings of letters and numbers, vague references to political figures, and open-ended questions, the drops are meant to be decoded. By doing so, Q researcherswho also call themselves Bakers, turning Crumbs of information from Q into insider knowledge about current eventsbelieve they are paving the way for the Great Awakening, an earth-shattering event in which all of Trumps enemies will be arrested for being Satan-worshipping pedophiles. In short, QAnon doesnt simply offer readers insider insight into current events, but also provides them the ability to take part in shaping those events through an intricate research process. (In June, this inspired the #TakeTheOath hashtag on Twitter, a sort of far-right ice bucket challenge where believers filmed themselves taking an oath to work as digital soldiers.) While many conspiracies encourage readers to doubt mainstream sources, QAnon takes things one step further by building an entire knowledge-making institution of its own. And that takes some serious effort. This observation sits uneasily with the journalistic consensus on QAnon, namely that its adherents are gullible dupes, immune to facts and reason, driven to insanity by their fealty to Trump. Adrienne LaFrance, summarizing her feature on QAnon in The Atlantic, offered that [QAnon] is premised on a search for truth, [but] adherence requires the total abandonment of empiricism. This is a mass rejection of reason. Comforting though this analysis is (in part because its also a way of saying Well, Im not the crazy one), it sidesteps a thornierbut very importantquestion: If QAnon is so wrong, then why do people still believe in it? To answer that, we set out to understand QAnon researchers on their own terms, rather than dismissing them out of hand. Among sociologists, this tactic is known as the symmetry principle. Put crudely, it proposes that true and false beliefs be explained the same wayas equally constructed. The point isnt to assert that true and false are somehow equally valid, but to strategically set aside claims about who is right and to study how competing knowledge claims are assembled, scrutinized, and accepted by their communities. This led us to spend several months observing self-identified researchers on QAnon Facebook groups and imageboards, watching YouTube videos and reading books by QAnon influencers, and browsing the surprisingly rich online databases that Q researchers have created to aid them in their efforts. And what we observed didnt line up with the public image of QAnon as bumbling, media-illiterate boomers willing to accept any lurid story about corrupt, pedophilic globalists. To see how this works, it helps to examine how Bakers turn Qs cryptic posts into Proofs. Proofs are a kind of BreadQAnon enthusiasts term for worthy researchand offer authoritative interpretations of Qs vague statements, thereby proving that Q is authentic and that Qs drops explain or predict future events. Proofs take many forms, including lengthy PDF e-books and video monologues, but one of the most common is what disinformation researchers Peaks Krafft and Joan Donovan call Evidence Collages. These are Microsoft Paint creations with lots of red arrows that look like Carries conspiracy wall in Homeland. The images arrange seemingly disparate events (say, several Q drops, news stories, and tweets by Donald Trump) into a single diagram in order to suggest that they are all interrelated and part of a larger plot. Sign up for CJR 's daily email One example. On December 22, 2017, Q drop 432 was published on 8Chan, once the primary hub for Q research: Almost immediately the /qresearch/ community on 8chan and beyond began throwing out possible explanations. Bakers pored over the text of drop 432, focusing on missing letters, misspellings, unorthodox patterns, punctuation marks, and other potential clues. In this case, Anons focused on the missing i in missile. They suggested it might mean Miss Lee the reporter/hostage rescued by Bill Clinton from NK (a reference to the reporter Euna Lee, who was captured in North Korea in 2009) or a missile thats been taken over in-flight by an unintended party. Others began looking for alternative meanings behind specific terms, such as in the Air Force lingo splash and fox three. Still others sought out seemingly relevant articles from a truly impressive range of mainstream and not-so-mainstream media, such as this post on the Skunk Bay Weather Blog about a possible missile launch off the coast of Washington State. Others still took the photo of the missile launch and compared it against Google Maps to attempt to determine its origin and trajectory, or sought out possible explanations in publicly available databases including FAA incident logs and tracking sites like FlightAware. Some of these stabs in the dark might seem absurdand indeed, Anons were quick to reject interpretations they regarded as overly fantastical, based on unfounded information, or from biased sources. Information in one article from Vice was summarily rejected for being too leftist, while the disreputable blogger Kevin Annett was elsewhere considered too much of a conspiracy theorist to be cited in serious Q research. In the later proof Rogue Missile Attack Intercepted (shown below), Q researchers combined six Q drops from 2017 and 2018 with supplementary material to make the argument that a rogue missile attack against Air Force One in June 2018 was thwarted at the last second. Not only did this suggest the hidden meaning behind drop 432it also implied that Q (once again) appeared to have predicted future events, validating Q and the QAnon conspiracy. These kinds of hypotheses slowly transform into Bread in three ways. First, Q can pop up again in the thread and offer their stamp of approval, as they did to the Anon who dug up the Air Force glossary page to define splash and fox three. In such cases, this interpretation becomes canon and starts being referred to in the thread and future proofs. Second, once the thread gets to a certain length it is closed and archived, and an Anon writes a brief summary that includes notablesposts that the thread maintainer thinks are interesting or insightful. While any Anon can nominate a post for notability, whats included is fairly subjective and left to the discretion of whoever is tending the thread. And since Q researchers dont want to do what we did and dig through thousands of posts, they often simply refer to these notables rather than reading through an entire thread, thus privileging any post thats included. Finally, a motivated Anon can consolidate interpretations into an evidence collage (as in the Rogue Missile Attack Intercepted proof), YouTube video, Medium post, or even a Trello board. These neatly packaged proofs can travel widely on social media, often completely decontextualized or not even mentioning QAnon, and create a fixed version of a particular interpretation even if the thread hadnt demonstrated particularly widespread agreement. Then, upon Qs next drop, the process begins anew: While QAnon participants can often seem crazy, irrational, or credulous, our research suggests that their collaboration creates a populist expertise that provides (and, crucially, justifies) an alternative to knowledge generated by mainstream institutions. Put differently, QAnon does the work of constructing alternative facts. And just as individual pieces of data must be validated in mainstream institutions through processes like peer review and reproducibility, QAnon researchers have found a means of validating their own claims in their interpretation of the world. Bakers embrace this body of homegrown, community-generated information because it shapes and supports their own beliefs about what is really happening in the world. When QAnon attacks Wayfair for selling trafficked children marketed as overpriced cabinets or shower curtains, theyre doing so based on a preexisting body of knowledge that has already proved the existence of enormous global child-trafficking operations. In QAnons understanding of this cabal, coded language is normal and kids are sold to global elites to be harvested for adrenochrome, a(n actual) by-product of adrenaline that some Q advocates believe can unnaturally extend its users life. If you accept that premise, secretly buying kids from a discount furniture site is perfectly logical. Fifteen years ago, media theorist Henry Jenkinss notion of participatory culture was all the rage among technologists and teachers. Jenkins looked at Star Trek fans and teen fanfiction writers and was inspired by their use of proprietary media products for their own creative ends. He was also interested in how fans interpreted textshow they worked together to criticize and debate television shows and Harry Potter. His work, along with that of legal scholar Larry Lessig, spurred a movement for copyright reform and so-called Free Culture. We all assumed that participation was good, even democraticor at least better than blindly consuming corporate-controlled media. But we see the exact same dynamics at work in QAnon as in fan communities. Rather than bringing their expertise to bear on old episodes of Supernatural, Bakers analyze Trumps tweets and Qs ramblings about missile defense. They form a supportive community, praising each others efforts and writing introductory documents for newbies. And they believe this is all very significant; that they are not political larpers (Live Action Role Players) but are engaging in a legitimate form of political participation. QAnon shows us that we cant characterize participatory culture as uniformly positive. Instead, we theorize QAnon as a dark participatory culture. Our work also questions the tenets of current media literacy programs, which attempt to empower individuals by teaching them to think critically, do their own research, and evaluate their sources. This is often cited as a panacea for disinformation, fake news, and all manner of online toxicity. Yet our research shows that many Bakers already do these things, and defend the validity of the conspiracy on this basis. Bakers constantly exhort one another to cite your sources and research for yourselves. Likewise, the pinned post in one of Facebooks largest QAnon groups instruct Bakers to be suspicious of hyperpartisan clickbait sites. Finally, Anons require all theories to have evidence, and they strongly reject sources they think are too liberal, too disreputable, or too out-there. By illustrating the gap between media literacy in theory and in practice, our research shows that simply encouraging people to think critically and evaluate their sources isnt a meaningful check against conspiratorial thinkingin fact, it may contribute to it. As we are writing this, in August 2020, QAnon is being pushed off of mainstream social media platforms, though with varying success. Twitter recently deleted several thousand accounts, while TikTok muted QAnon-related hashtags; Facebook has also moved to delete thousands of private QAnon groups. The truly dedicated Q researchers, of course, will regroup on other platforms with more permissive content guidelines, like Parler, Gab, or Discord. More casual researchers may simply move on to something else. But the power behind populist expertise, whether or not its expressed as QAnon explicitly, will continue to beguile partisans. Just as Trumpism will outlast Trump no matter what happens in November, the age of alternative facts has only just begun. RELATED: When the news becomes religion Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Alice Marwick and William Partin are the authors. Alice Marwick is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she researches the social, political, and cultural implications of popular social media technologies. She is the author of Status Update: Celebrity, Publicity, and Attention in the Social Media Age, and her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The New York Review of Books, and The Guardian, among others. William Partin is a research analyst in the Disinformation Action Lab at Data & Society, where he helps to monitor and analyze disinformation campaigns. He has contributed features on culture, technology, and finance to The Atlantic, The Washington Post, and Variety, among others. T he head of the UK's vaccine taskforce has warned that less than half of the British population should expect to receive a coronavirus vaccine. Kate Bingham said it is "misguided" to expect that every UK citizen will get a Covid-19 vaccine injection when it is widely released, as they will initially be reserved for at-risk groups only. The priority groups top of the list for the vaccine will include the over-50s and health and social care workers. According to these criteria, the number of people fitting into the vulnerable categories will equate to around 30 million - less than half of the current UK population of 67 million. Vaccines will initially not be given to anyone aged under 18 / PA Miss Bingham told the Financial Times: "People keep talking about 'time to vaccinate the whole population', but that is misguided. "There's going to be no vaccination of people under 18. It's an adult-only vaccine, for people over 50, focusing on health workers and care home workers and the vulnerable." Last month, it was reported by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) that care home residents were among those who should be at the top of the list for a jab when one becomes available. The final decision as to who will have priority access to an approved vaccine will be decided by an independent committee. Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, has said the army will be brought in to help distribute a UK vaccine / Parliament TV Health Secretary Matt Hancock has supported the idea of a prioritisation list, and said that the Army will be brought in to ensure vaccines are well distributed. Speaking at the Conservative Party conference, he described prioritisation as "important because we've got to get the vaccine to the people who are most likely to be badly affected by coronavirus first". "But it is also important because people can know in advance that there is a prioritisation and we will reach people when it is clinically right to do that. "And then there's a huge logistical operation which we're planning, led by the NHS with the support of the armed services to make sure we have the logistics in place to get this rolled out as fast as it is feasibly possible." UK researchers are working around the clock to develop and safe and approved vaccine / AP UK researchers are working around the clock in the search for a safe, peer-reviewed and approved vaccine for Covid-19. Countries including Russia and China have claimed their scientists have already found vaccines for the coronavirus strain, with injections rumoured to have been given to health workers in China A Government spokesperson said: "We want as many people as possible to access a Covid-19 vaccine and we are considering the advice of the independent Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation on which groups of people to prioritise. "The committee's interim advice is the vaccine should first be given to care home residents and staff, followed by people over 80 and health and social care workers, then to the rest of the population in order of age and risk. Loading.... "An enormous amount of planning and preparation has taken place across Government to quickly roll out a safe and effective vaccine." Rajesh Kumar Thakur By Express News Service PATNA: A day after exiting the opposition Grand Alliance in Bihar, the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) on Sunday announced that it will contest all 243 Assembly seats in the state. Mukesh Sahni, founder and national president of the VIP, also declared that he will never be in a political alliance with RJD as long as Tejashwi Yadav was leading the party. VIP had decided to walk out of the RJD-led Grand Alliance on Saturday after being denied seats in upcoming elections. Our party will announce the first list of candidates on October 5. We are speaking to Upendra Kushwahas RLSP and Pappu Yadav-led JAP also, Sahni said. Sahni accused Tejashwi Yadav of conspiring against him and betraying his trust. He added that the RJD was no longer Lalu Yadavs party. Tejashwi also cheated us in the Lok Sabha elections at the last moment and we were compelled to contest from Khagaria Lok Sabha seat under a conspiracy, he alleged. Sahni said that the VIP always worked to strengthen the Grand Alliance but the RJD continued humiliating Dalit leaders in the alliance including Jitan Ram Manjhi and Upendra Kushwaha. Sahni said that Tejashwis brother Tej Pratap Yadav is far better but is being sidelined by his younger sibling. When Tejashwi Yadav cannot be true to his elder brother, how can he be true to the youths of state? He is scared of all other young leaders like Kanhaiya Kumar of CPI and Chirag Paswan of LJP, Sahni alleged. The VIP leader said, this time, he would choose partners on his terms and conditions. However, the VIP may not put up candidates in those constituencies where extremely backward class (EBC) nominees will be fighting on ruling partys tickets, he said. On Saturday, Tejashwi Yadav had announced that RJD would contest on 144 seats while Congress was given 70 seats, the CPI(ML) 19, CPI (six) and four seats to the CPI(M). It was said that RJD would be accommodating JMM and VIP from its own quota of constituencies. A boss at a scandal-hit care firm criticised the Belfast Trust as he fought to keep control of Clifton Nursing Home. Gavin O'Hare Connolly, chief operating officer of Runwood Homes, said he was "not satisfied" with the support from the trust as the home struggled with a deadly Covid-19 outbreak. In a meeting with the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) watchdog on May 19, Mr O'Hare Connolly blamed the trust for "adding to managerial stress". In a further meeting with the RQIA on May 26, he said he had received no correspondence from the trust since March last year. Clifton Nursing Home in north Belfast hit the headlines at the height of the first surge of the pandemic earlier this year. A new care home provider was brought in to take over management of the home after the deaths of nine residents who had tested positive for Covid-19. The meetings between the RQIA and the home's management came after a number of damning inspections of the facility as it struggled to control the outbreak. A visit on March 3 highlighted a series of issues relating to infection control, including a failure by the home to address concerns identified last October. Two subsequent inspections by the RQIA uncovered a litany of serious failings. The first, on May 15, was carried out after the Belfast Trust raised concerns over management, leadership and infection control measures at the home. Expand Close Gavin O'Hare Connolly / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Gavin O'Hare Connolly Runwood Homes was summoned to a meeting with the RQIA on May 19, when Mr O'Hare Connolly "gave his personal assurance that the RQIA would not find these issues again in Clifton", according to minutes from the meeting. However, further concerns about the home were raised with the watchdog by senior staff from Belfast Trust, the Public Health Agency and the Department of Health on May 20. Inspectors returned to Clifton the following day, and a further meeting was called between the RQIA and Runwood Homes on May 26. It was during these meetings that Mr O'Hare Connolly made his claims about the Belfast Trust. He also said there had been "a lot of misrepresentation in the media" and "indicated there has been a lot of positive support from families". A spokeswoman from the Belfast Trust said a range of measures were put in place to support the home, including training on swabbing residents and the use of PPE. Hundreds of hours of nursing support were also provided, she added. "It was during the provision of this support that the trust identified issues in relation to compliance with the infection prevention and control requirements and concerns about the leadership and governance arrangements in the home," the spokeswoman said. "We met with Runwood Homes to discuss our concerns, but we did not receive the assurances that these issues were being addressed in a timely or thorough way. "The trust escalated all of these concerns to RQIA in line with normal procedures." While waiting for the nations independence anniversary broadcast by President Muhammadu Buhari, on Thursday morning October 1, 2020, I stumbled at a statement by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirate and Ruler of Dubai, where he stated thus; God blessed UAE with a leadership of achievers, not egotists. When we compare our development experience in the United Arab Emirates with others, we find that there are some leaders who destroy their countries, while others promote the status and prosperity of their people. Our leaders walk down the street without armoured cars and a large entourage of cars and motorcycles because they are not afraid of their people they are one with them. They feel and understand the pulse of the man in the street. With such a close and deep relationship between the leadership and the people, any decision taken by the former will be in the interest of the latter. This is the basis of a true vision it is in the interest of the people, he concluded. To be sure, I listened afterwards with real curiosity to Mr. Presidents broadcast while reflecting on the above. Placing side by side Al Maktoum words with the content of Mr Presidents broadcast to understand more fully the essential ingredients of leadership foresights and objective. At the end, not only did the analysis assisted me in accessing their priorities but further clarifiedthe age-long believe that the interest, subjects take in their leader does not lie in the leaders physical and intellectual abilities, but lies rather in what he can add to their lots in life. Now, lets be clear about what happened; President Buhari during the broadcast among other things declared; in the circumstances, a responsible government must face realities and take tough decisions. Petroleum prices in Nigeria are to be adjusted. We sell now at N161 per litre. A comparison with our neighbours will illustrate the point; Chad which is an oil producing country charges N362 per litre; Niger, also an oil producing country sells 1 litre at N346; In Ghana, another oil producing country, petroleum pump price is N326 per litre; Further afield, Egypt charges N211 per litre. Saudi Arabia charges N168 per litre. It makes no sense for oil to be cheaper in Nigeria than in Saudi Arabia. Clearly, Buharis view/arguments are well understood but not without difficulties. And it will be naive of this piece proceeding without spot incongruities while underlining his (Buhari) created realities and the actual realities confronting the nation. To add context to the discourse, there is absolutely nothing wrong with comparing, admiring/copying other people/nations progress. Afterall, Tam-David West encouraged humanity to appreciate and admire the success of those who have really succeeded And examples abound. First and very key, it is documented that before World War 11, Japan copied its corporate system from the West. There were Capitalists and labourers, haves and haves not. The big capitalists had come into being in the late 19th century as a direct result of the Meiji governments determination to catch up with the strong western nations. Copying is by no means limited to Japan. When China discovered its potential to become a modern economy, it copied other nations by joining WTO to become integrated into the world with broad people to people contact. Today, China has experienced a period of economic growth, the likes of which the world had never before seen. Its model blazes a new trail for other developing countries to copy and achieve modernization as well as offers a new option for other countries and nations who want to speed up their development. But there is a very big distinction to make. In the present circumstance, there is a reason for concern that Mr. Presidents recent comparison and inconsiderate declaration that It makes no sense for oil to be cheaper in Nigeria than in Saudi Arabia, suggests that what the nation is experiencing is no longer the first half of a reoccuring circle but rather the beginning of something new. And if we fail to change this mindset, chances are that we may as a nation continue in this thought system that allows poverty, powerlessness and economic stagnation to thrive. It not only rings apprehension that the nation will continue to face new challenges. Rather, when one boils down precisely Mr.President comparative analysis, which for yet to be identified reason(s) was silent on the steps Saudi leadership is taking to reduce cost of governance and improve the life chances of citizens, it again amplifies the claim by Nigerians with critical minds that if our founders could see the current state of their generation handiwork and access the quality of the present administration, they would be amazed at what leadership has become in the country. At this point, it is important to ask; what suddenly informed the choice of Saudi Arabia as benchmark for determining petrol pump price in Nigeria as against market forces earlier claimed by the Federal Government? Has President Buhari forgotten that unlike Nigeria, small scale businesses in Saudi Arabia are not petrol dependent for their daily operation and the masses not preoccupied with buying of fuels for their cars/vehicles as Saudi Arabia is blessed with stable electricity and efficient transportation network? At the moment, this is what this piece is proposing. If we must copy, let the Federal Government of Nigeria first copy the fact that Saudi Arabia,going by reports is dotted with the following refineries (government and private), all producing in various installed capacities and replicate same here at home; Riyadh Refinery 120,000 bbl/d (19,000 m3/d), Rabigh Refinery, 400,000 bbl/d (64,000 m3/d), Jeddah Refinery, 100,000 bbl/d (16,000 m3/d), Ras Tanura Refinery 550,000 bbl/d (87,000 m3/d), Yanbu' Refinery,225,000 bbl/d (35,800 m3/d), Yanbu' Refinery (SAMREF) (Saudi Aramco/Exxon Mobil), 400,000 bbl/d (64,000 m3/d), Jubail Refinery (SATORP) (Saudi Aramco/Total), 400,000 bbl/d (64,000 m3/d), YASREF Refinery (Yanbu, KSA) (Saudi Aramco/Sinopec), 400,000 bbl/d (64,000 m3/d), Jazan Refinery (Saudi Aramco, opens 2016), 400,000 bbl/d (64,000 m3/d), Jubail Refinery (SASREF) (Saudi Aramco/Shell), 305,000 bbl/d (48,500 m3/d) Again, as a country that had in the past met with challenges Nigeria currently battles with, let Mr. President begin by asking Saudi Arabia how they ably get the International Oil Companies (IOCs) to build refineries in the country. And find out how their governments' refineries function seamlessly, producing in their installed capacities unlike ours that gulps billions of Naira without result. Most importantly, as part of the 60th Independence gift to Nigerians, the Federal Government urgently needs to understand why leaders in UAE can walk down the street without armoured cars and a large entourage of cars and motorcycles without being afraid of their people . This is the crux of this piece. Jerome-Mario Utomi( [email protected] ), is a Lagos-Based Media Consultant. Punjab Police arrest Chandigarh: In yet another crackdown on the international drug and weapon smuggling networks being operated from across the border, Punjab Police arrested two wanted members on Sunday in follow up action against the recently busted international drug and weapon smuggling racket, which was being operated by BSF constable Sumit Kumar@ Noni. A 7.65 mm Pistol, etched with made in Italy markings, heroin, drug proceeds, two mobile phones, 2 wi-fi Dongles and a KTM racing bike were recovered from the accused. Disclosing this here today, DGP Punjab Dinkar Gupta disclosed that the two accused were arrested on 4th October from near Kartarpur in Jalandhar when they were on a heroin deliver mission. Advertisement Dinkar Gupta The two arrested include Simranjeet Singh @ Simran (26 years) of village Dhirpur, Jalandhar district and Balram Singh (26) of village Surakhpur, Kapurthala district. The KTM bike the drug smugglers/dealers were riding had been stolen from the parking lot of a private university. A case has been registered against them in PS Kartarpur under the relevant sections of NDPS Act, Arms Act and the IPC. Simranjeet was an absconding criminal in the murder case of sand gravel businessmen of village Hamira (Kapurthala) about 10 months ago in village Dhirpur. Advertisement Sharing further details, AIG CI Jalandhar Harkamalpreet Singh Khakh informed that the Punjab Police had earlier arrested one Amanpreet Singh of Dhirpur village in a murder case of sand gravel businessmen of village Hamira. It had been found that Amanpreet and his brothers were in contact with one Shah Musa of Pakistan for smuggling of drugs across the international border. Punjab Police During the probe, it had further come to light that Amanpreet had come into contact with Shah Musa through BSF constable Sumit who had been lodged in Gurdaspur jail in connection with a murder case. The conspiracy to smuggle drugs and weapons from across the border had been hatched in Gurdaspur jail. Advertisement After getting bail in the murder case, Sumit was posted at a guard tower at the international border with Pakistan in Samba sector of Jammu from where he kept in constant touch with trans-border smugglers who were further in contact with Shah Musa in Pakistan. PistolDGP had earlier shared that Sumit had facilitated the entry and delivery of 40 packets of heroin and a Zigana 9mm pistol over the border fence where he was deployed. He kept the pistol for himself after the delivery of heroin to some unidentified persons. Sumit had received Rs 39 lakh for the successful influx of drugs and weapons, in two instalments of Rs 15 lakh and Rs 24 lakh. Khakh stated that Simranjeet Singh alias Simran, who was the real brother of Amanpreet Singh, had admitted that he and his brothers had shot dead sand gravel businessman Jagjit Singh of village Hamira. DGP revealed that three criminal cases were already registered against him while his accomplice Balram Singh also facing a case under Arms Act registered at PS Kotwali Kapurthala. He had been released on bail on from Kapurthala Jail due to corona pandemic. Following the publication of the Pope's encyclical Fratelli Tutti on Sunday, Bishops in the United States and Australia highlight his important appeals for solidarity and human fraternity. By Vatican News Pope Francis published his third Encyclical Letter Fratelli tutti on Fraternity and Social Friendship on Sunday. Welcoming the Encyclical, Archbishop Mark Coleridge, the President of the Australian Bishops Conference, said in a statement on Sunday that a world that looks beyond a global pandemic with no roadmap can find one in the new Encyclical which is not just for believers but for the entire human family. He added that it is a vision of the dignity of every human being from which flows the call to build a new culture of fraternity and dialogue. Brothers and sisters all Archbishop Coleridge pointed out that the Pope's latest encyclical differs from the 2015 Laudato si in which he spoke of care of our common home. In Fratelli tutti he speaks of care for each other and the family that dwells together in our common home. He noted that the Pope expresses his desire that, by acknowledging the dignity of each person, we might contribute to the rebirth of a universal aspiration to fraternity. The Holy Father also enjoins everyone to dream as a single human family each of us bringing the richness of his or her beliefs and convictions, each of us with his or her own voice, brothers and sisters all. Need for solidarity The Archbishop said the Pope had started work on the Encyclical before the Covid-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the important need for solidarity even more, as it has created in many a sense of interdependence of communities and the fragility of human beings left to themselves. Reiterating Pope Franciss words, he pointed out that our worst response after the health crisis passes would be to plunge into feverish consumerism and new forms of egotistic self-preservation. He added that the current divisions and conflicts are a road to nowhere, and enjoined that after this we no longer think in terms of them and those, but only us. Unity, not division Archbishop Coleridge also underscored the Popes call against ideologies that seek to divide rather than unite, and policies or economic systems that priorities profit over people and the planet. In particular, he pointed out that those that the Pope describes certain people as often undervalued or treated inequitably women, older people, unborn children, indigenous peoples, and migrants. The Archbishop said these are people who are also left on the margins in Australia. He therefore warns against thinking that the Popes message only regards other parts of the world. Concluding, Archbishop Coleridge said that in the Encyclical, Pope Francis gives a grand yet simple vision of human interconnectedness as we are all connected in ways we can scarcely imagine. Our task now is to work out what this means in practice as we look beyond the pandemic, Archbishop Coleridge said. US Bishops In the same vein, Archbishop Jose H. Gomez, president of the US Bishops Conference issued a statement on Sunday welcoming the new Encyclical. On behalf of the Catholic Church in the United States, I welcome the Holy Fathers new encyclical letter on human fraternity. Like Laudato si before it, Fratelli tutti is an important contribution to the Churchs rich tradition of social doctrine. He said the Popes teaching in the encyclical is profound and beautiful; highlighting that God has created every human being with equal sanctity and dignity, equal rights and duties and that God calls us to form a single human family in which we live as brothers and sisters. Implications for Church and society Archbishop Gomez highlighted that the Popes message reminds us of Gods plan for humanity which has implications for every aspect of our lives, including our personal relationships and how we organize our societies and economies. Thus, in analyzing conditions in the world today, the Pope gives a powerful and urgent vision for the moral renewal of politics and political and economic institutions, which call us to build a common future that serves the good of the human person. He also pointed out that for the Church, the Pope challenges us to overcome individualism in our culture and to serve our neighbors in love, seeing Jesus Christ in every person, and seeking a society of Justice and mercy, compassion and mutual concern. Concluding, he prayed that Catholics and all people of goodwill may reflect on the Popes words and enter into a new commitment to seek the unity of the human family. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A father-son dispute at a Grasmere home Sunday afternoon ended in tragedy after a 34-year-old man was shot in the stomach and later pronounced deceased. Police said a 68-year-old man, whose name is currently being withheld pending formal charges, told investigators he thought his firearms safety was on before the shooting occurred. The 34-year-old, identified by police as Joseph Smith, was shot in the abdomen at a home located at 34 Beverly Rd. around 12:45 p.m. He was transported to Staten Island University Hospital in Ocean Breeze where he was later pronounced deceased. The 68-year-old man was taken into custody without incident, the spokesman said, though no arrest has been made. A firearm was recovered at the scene, according to police. Nothing like this ever happens around here, said a nearby resident who wished to remain anonymous. Another pair of residents said they never heard arguments or disputes at the house and also did not hear a gunshot Sunday afternoon. Two police officers remained on scene as of 4:45 p.m., after a larger response earlier in the afternoon, according to neighbors. The NYPD cordoned off the home and the sidewalk directly in front of the residence. This is a breaking news story. Check back to SILive.com for updates. Bihar polls: BJP Central Election Committee (CEC) met on Sunday to deliberate over the upcoming polls and decide upon the party candidates. Chirag Paswan led Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) on Sunday walked out of the ruling NDA. The central election committee (CEC) of the Congress will hold a meeting on Monday evening at the residence of interim party president Sonia Gandhi. Ahead of Bihar polls, BJP Central Election Committee (CEC) met on Sunday to deliberate over the upcoming polls and decide upon the party candidates. This comes after NDA suffered a setback with Chirag Paswan led LJP deciding to walk out of NDA. Prime Minister Modi, party president JP Nadda and other senior leaders were present during the CEC, NDA is likely to declare its candidates today. Chirag Paswan led Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) on Sunday walked out of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), as it tacked Nitish Kumar, announcing that it will fight against JD(U) candidates. The central election committee (CEC) of the Congress will hold a meeting on Monday evening at the residence of interim party president Sonia Gandhi, here to finalise candidates for the first phase of Bihar Assembly polls. This comes after the partys Screening Committee had a detailed meeting at Congress war room in Delhi. Also read: Hathras politics: Congress, DMK to hold protests across country, Yogi Adityanath writes to centre recommending CBI probe CPI(M) announces names of 4 candidates for #BiharElections2020. Ajay Kumar to contest from Bibhutipur constituency, Rajendra Prasad Singh from Matihani, Rajmangal Prasad from Pipra & Satendra Yadav from Majhi Assembly constituency. CPI(M) is an ally in Mahagathbandhan in Bihar. ANI (@ANI) October 5, 2020 Also read: Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee extends rail roko agitation in Punjab till Oct 8 Avinash Pande, Chairman of Congress Screening Committee for Bihar Assembly polls said to ANI after the meeting that they discussed the list of probable candidates at 70 Assembly seats in Bihar. He said that the list of candidates recommended by state Congress leaders would be presented in the Congress Central Election Committee meeting today. According to sources, Congress Party has cleared the names of all sitting MLAs whose constituency is going for polls in the first phase, where the last date of nomination is October 8. The party is unlikely to announce candidates soon after the CEC meet as poll strategy, they said. The opposition Grand Alliance(Mahagathbandhan) in Bihar announced a seat-sharing formula for the upcoming assembly polls under which the Congress will contest 70 of a total 243 seats. It is for the first time party is fighting polls on 70 seats. In last Assembly polls, the party fought only on 41 seats out of which 27 candidates won the elections but soon after JDU quit the alliance, one section of the MLAs quit the party and later joined JDU. This time, the party is willing to repeat all MLAs who are intact with the party, CLP leader and 9 times MLA Sadanand Singh have been given free hand or free to give the name of the candidate to replace him, a source said. This Bihar Assembly poll is considered as the big challenge for both the alliance in Bihar. In NDA alliance, the Lok Janshakti Party(LJP) will not contest seats where BJP will be contesting, however, it will fight against Janata Dal (United). Both JDU and LJP are in a pre-poll alliance with the BJP. Kushwahas RLSP has quit Mahagathbandhan and forged an alliance with BSP. Hindustan Avam Morcha (HAM) chief Jitan Ram Manjhi has joined NDA. The huge set back has been given by Mukesh Sahni from Vikasheel Insan Party (VIP) who announced his disassociation from Mahagathbandhan in a live Press Conference in Patna on Sunday. Congress, CPI, CPM are now part of this alliance under the leadership of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Congress leader Avinash Pandey has already made the announcement about Tejashwi Yadav being the face of the alliance which is seeking to oust the ruling NDA from power in the state. He said that the alliance was led by RJD and its leader Tejashwi Yadav would lead them, they wanted Bihar to prosper under the leadership of Tejashwi Yadav. Bihar with 243 assembly seats will go to polls in three phases: October 28, November 3 and November 7. The results will be declared on November 10. Also read: Kheti Bachao Yatra: Wont let them destroy farmers, says Rahul Gandhi MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- DailyPay, the gold standard in the on-demand pay industry, is expanding its customer service operations in Minneapolis to continue to provide first-class, personalized service to its rapidly expanding user base. The growing call center team speaks to DailyPay's commitment to being the leading full-service on-demand pay provider. DailyPay currently partners with more than 80% of the Fortune 100 companies that offer an on-demand pay benefit. "We are thrilled to create new jobs and opportunities as we continue to expand the footprint of our fast-growing financial technology solutions company in the Minneapolis market," said JD LePetit, vice president, product support, DailyPay. "The expansion of our in-house team further demonstrates the attention we pay to offering our users a flawless and impactful customer service experience every time." The 100+ new positions feature employees working both in the office and remotely. DailyPay is proud to offer call center support that is 100% based in the U.S. LePetit, based in Minneapolis, joined DailyPay earlier this year after leading the Southwest Consumer & Affluent call center region for Wells Fargo. DailyPay opened its Minneapolis office in 2019, with a current roster of over 50 employees, prior to the upcoming expansion. The announcement comes on the heels of National Customer Service Week . DailyPay has undertaken a number of initiatives to salute hard-working, dedicated customer services representatives, many of whom are DailyPay users. About DailyPay DailyPay is the award-winning, gold standard on-demand pay platform offering comprehensive pay experience solutions to world-class companies and their millions of employees, including Kroger, Adecco and Berkshire Hathaway. DailyPay is headquartered in New York City with operations located in Minneapolis. For more information, visit www.dailypay.com/press Contact: Sehrish Sayani Email: [email protected] Website: dailypay.com SOURCE DailyPay We feel now is a pretty good time to analyse Hecla Mining Company's (NYSE:HL) business as it appears the company may be on the cusp of a considerable accomplishment. Hecla Mining Company, together with its subsidiaries, discovers, acquires, develops, and produces precious and base metal properties in the United States and internationally. With the latest financial year loss of US$100m and a trailing-twelve-month loss of US$59m, the US$2.7b market-cap company alleviated its loss by moving closer towards its target of breakeven. The most pressing concern for investors is Hecla Mining's path to profitability when will it breakeven? We've put together a brief outline of industry analyst expectations for the company, its year of breakeven and its implied growth rate. See our latest analysis for Hecla Mining Consensus from 6 of the American Metals and Mining analysts is that Hecla Mining is on the verge of breakeven. They expect the company to post a final loss in 2019, before turning a profit of US$15m in 2020. Therefore, the company is expected to breakeven roughly 12 months from now or less. How fast will the company have to grow to reach the consensus forecasts that anticipate breakeven by 2020? Working backwards from analyst estimates, it turns out that they expect the company to grow 190% year-on-year, on average, which signals high confidence from analysts. If this rate turns out to be too aggressive, the company may become profitable much later than analysts predict. Given this is a high-level overview, we wont go into details of Hecla Mining's upcoming projects, however, take into account that generally metals and mining companies, depending on the stage of operation and metals mined, have irregular periods of cash flow. So, a high growth rate is not out of the ordinary, particularly when a company is in a period of investment. One thing wed like to point out is that The company has managed its capital prudently, with debt making up 31% of equity. This means that it has predominantly funded its operations from equity capital, and its low debt obligation reduces the risk around investing in the loss-making company. Story continues Next Steps: This article is not intended to be a comprehensive analysis on Hecla Mining, so if you are interested in understanding the company at a deeper level, take a look at Hecla Mining's company page on Simply Wall St. We've also compiled a list of key factors you should look at: Valuation: What is Hecla Mining worth today? Has the future growth potential already been factored into the price? The intrinsic value infographic in our free research report helps visualize whether Hecla Mining is currently mispriced by the market. Management Team: An experienced management team on the helm increases our confidence in the business take a look at who sits on Hecla Minings board and the CEOs background. Other High-Performing Stocks: Are there other stocks that provide better prospects with proven track records? Explore our free list of these great stocks here. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 04:11:04|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CAIRO, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry on Monday urged the international community for concrete actions to push warring Libyan parties toward a cease-fire and a political solution in the North African country. Shoukry's remarks came during a virtual ministerial meeting on Libya co-hosted by the United Nations and Germany as a follow-up to the Berlin conference on Libya that was held in the German capital in January, according to a statement by the Egyptian Foreign Ministry. The Egyptian minister called for the implementation of Berlin's recommendations through concrete actions to push the Libyan parties to respect what was agreed in Berlin and the UN Security Council, "whether related to cease-fire or ban on arms imports on the one hand, or dismantling and disarming militias and combating terrorist organizations on the other hand." He reiterated Egypt's support for a political solution in Libya and rejection of any foreign military interference in the neighboring Arab country. Libya has been locked in a civil war since the ouster and killing of former leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The situation escalated in 2014, splitting power between two rival governments: the UN-backed Government of National Accord based in the capital Tripoli and a regime in the northeastern city of Tobruk allied with east-based military commander Khalifa Haftar. In June, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi announced a Cairo-led initiative to end the Libyan internal conflict following his meeting in Cairo with Haftar and Tobruk-based parliament speaker Aguila Saleh Issa. Dubbed Cairo Declaration, the Egyptian plan proposes a cease-fire between warring Libyan parties, disbanding militias, pulling out foreign forces, electing a presidential council representing all Libyans and drafting a constitutional declaration to regulate elections for the later stage. During Monday's ministerial gathering, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that "Libya's future is at stake," calling on all Libyans to continue to work toward a lasting cease-fire and urging participants to support the UN-sponsored Libyan peace efforts "not only in words but in actions." Enditem Congress leader Rahul Gandhis Facebook page recorded over 40% more engagements than Prime Minister Narendra Modis from September 25 to October 2, the Congress has said. The partys assessment is based on data mined from Facebook analytics, which allows monitoring of up to five pages. It shows 13.9 million engagements with Gandhis posts during this period. The engagements include comments, likes, and shares. The four other pages monitored as part of the exercise include that of Modi, the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP), the Congress, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. Also Watch | Rahul Gandhi rides tractor, addresses farmers on Day 1 of Punjab protest Modi, who is among the top five most followed world leaders on social media, has 45.9 million followers compared to Gandhis 3.5 million on Facebook. His engagements last week, according to Congress data, were only 8.2 million. Also Read: Congress to hold satyagraha across states to demand justice for Hathras rape victim BJPs official page with 16 million followers had responses from 2.3 million people, compared to Congresss 3.6 million. The Congress has 5.6 million followers on Facebook. Gandhis followers also grew by 3.5% and he posted 52 times during this period. Modi attended major events, addressed the UN general assembly, and posted 11 times from September 25 to October 2. A Congress functionary said the key variable is engagement. although Rahul Gandhi has far fewer followers than Narendra Modi, the formers engagement levels are much higher that include likes, comments, shares, etc, the functionary said on condition of anonymity. It is a key indicator of how audiences are relating to the content. The functionary added the spike has coincided with protests against the alleged gang-rape and murder of the 19-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras. Gandhi has led Congresss protests from the front. He managed to meet the womans family along with Priyanka Gandhi on Saturday after they were prevented from doing so a day earlier. I met Hathras victims family and understood their pain, Gandhi posted on Facebook. I assured them that we will stand by them in this difficult time and help them get justice. UP [Uttar Pradesh] government will not be able to do whatever it wishes even if wants to, because now the whole country is standing to get justice for the daughter of this country. The post had over 450,000 likes as of Monday morning. Also Read: Rahul Gandhi vows to scrap contentious farm laws once Congress returns to power at Centre Gandhi has gone from being a sporadic user of social media to a relentless critic of the government on Twitter and Facebook. He has also gone live on issues like the Kheti Bachao Yatra that he has led against farm laws passed in Parliament last month. Gandhi has also put out a series of video conversations with global and Indian thought leaders to discuss the Covid-19 crisis and its consequences on the countrys economy. Dilip Cherian, a communications consultant, said there may be three factors for the surge. The first is what we call the issue factor. The prime minister has not spoken on Hathras issue and engagement on the same has been very high on Facebook. The second is the newbieness factor, which works for Rahul as we have not seen this level of activity from him before; it tends to attract a wider audience. And the third is anti-establishment aspect, wherein people gravitate towards a discourse against the ruling dispensation, he said. The prime minister is very consistent in his social media posts. Perhaps, his lack of engagement on the issue has led to the surge. HT reached out to BJPs IT cell chief Amit Malviya for comments but did not immediately get a response. Someone who was in Nazareth Area Intermediate School has tested positive for COVID-19, according to the Nazareth Area School District superintendent. Superintendent Dennis Riker sent a note to district families Monday that says the district received notice of the positive test on Sunday, Oct. 4. The person was last in the intermediate school on Tuesday, Sept. 29, the note says. Due to privacy laws, we are limited in the information we can share regarding this particular case, Riker said in the note. As a Nazareth Area School District community, we ask for your support as we respect the privacy of our students and staff. The Pennsylvania Department of Health will assess the case, monitor the affected individual and conduct all contact tracing with the assistance of the school district, the note says. Staff members and students who were in close contact with the individual will be directly contacted by the department of health with instructions to quarantine, the note says. The public health officials have determined there is no need, at this time, to close the Nazareth Area Intermediate School, the note says. The school district cleaned and disinfected the school, paying close attention to the locations where the affected individual was present, the note says. Our school building is safe for occupancy, Riker said in the note. Riker asks those with COVID-19 symptoms to self-quarantine and contact their doctor. Thank you for your continued support as we work together to mitigate risks to our school community, he said. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to Lehighvalleylive.com. Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. If theres anything about this story that needs attention, please email him. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook. Fading blues the decline of the Tory tradition in Canada since the 1980s (Part Four) By Mark Wegierski The notion of Canada ever being a more conservative society than America has largely disappeared from the perception of both the general public and the media and intellectual elites of Canada. Yet, until the 1960s, it could be argued that Canada was indeed a more substantively conservative society. In contrast to the United States, however, Canada was almost always in its history characterized by a far greater degree of niceness and politeness than America, mostly avoiding such aspects of American society as racism and excessive commercialism. It is not too popular today to say that the roots of Canadian politeness may actually lie in an earlier social conservatism. The attempts by the current-day politically correct to demonize Canadas past and even some current-day realities would be outrightly ridiculous if they were not so deeply entrenched now among the Canadian intellectual and media elites. One would want to laugh at politically correct persons who claim to be Canadian nationalists, while characterizing Canada historically, and to some extent even today, as a presumed nexus of white evil. Nothing confident, socially healthy, or truly tolerant can be built on the ground of ever more pronounced self-hatred. It should also be considered that Canadians have been typified as being deferential to authority. In the pre-1960s, when the traditionalist-centrist consensus was in place, this contributed to making Canada more socially-conservative. However, once the ruling paradigm was changed from the top, this has meant that many Canadians have become among the most ardent exponents of political-correctness in the world. (1) It should be remembered that, insofar as America remained more liberal than Canada, the Liberal Party pushed for "Free Trade", increased contacts with the United States, and advocated continentalism (typified by Frank Underhill and, to some extent, Mackenzie King). Now, when America appears to be more conservative than Canada (owing to a variety of reasons), the Liberal Party has suddenly discovered what it calls Canadian nationalism (what is called "the unique socially-compassionate political culture of Canada"). What is also somewhat ironic is that there has apparently occurred a similar dialectical flip between the United States and Europe, as the United States and Canada. It has been argued that America today (frequently characterized by its willingness to exercise power) is a considerably more conservative society than those seen in Europe, and especially in the Western European countries (characterized as a so-called postmodern paradise). (2) However, it could be argued that Canada, America, and the European Union are today, to a large extent, just three super-states of somewhat different forms of the managerial-therapeutic regime. What appears to have occurred is the near-total reconstruction of what it means to be a European, an American, and a Canadian today. It is an interesting question which of those societies is best equipped to weather the coming storm of the conflict with Islam, the challenge of such powers as China and India, and the burgeoning rise of what was during the Cold War named the Third World. Its possible to argue that what remains of Western civilization will mostly become localized in Eastern Europe (3) and Russia. Considering that possible context, the reconciliation of the Western, Eastern, and Southern Slavic nations may become a matter of world-historical importance. To be continued. Footnotes: (1) A similar point has been made in a column of Ted Byfield in Western Standard (A Society of Yes Men. June 4, 2007, p.14). He also makes the point that the current-day elites in Canada are still mostly WASPs. Presumably the WASP elites still remain prominent because they are the most ultra-politically-correct grouping. (2) This argument was probably most prominently made by Robert Kagan, in his book Of Paradise and Power: America and Europe in the New World Order. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 2003. (3) The term Eastern Europe, although disliked by considerable numbers of people living in those countries, continues to persist to a large extent. The dividing line between Western and Eastern Europe is said, according to some historians, to run roughly from Szczecin on the Baltic Sea to Trieste on the Adriatic Sea. It can be seen that many of the Eastern European countries are resisting the trends to de-nationalization today. Thus, what is considered the supposed backwardness and parochialism of those countries (from the standpoint of politically correct left-liberalism) may indeed be their greatest strength for the future. Why should they adopt the worst aspects of such Western European societies as Holland? Mark Wegierski is a Canadian writer and historical researcher. Home Democratic nominee Joe Biden said Monday he was still open to debating President Donald Trump in Miami in 10 days. 'If the scientists say that it's safe, the distances are safe, then I think that's fine,' Biden told reporters at the Delaware airport. 'I'll do whatever the experts say is appropriate to do.' The president first tested positive for the coronavirus on Thursday, October 1 after his aide Hope Hicks got a positive result. Democratic nominee Joe Biden (right) said he's open to debating President Donald Trump in Miami in 10 days 'if the scientists says that it's safe.' His wife Jill Biden (left) pulled him back from reporters Monday to keep more social distance Joe Biden speaks to reporters Monday en route to Miami, Florida where he'll participate in a televised town hall with NBC's Lester Holt and visit Little Haiti and Little Havana Joe Biden wouldn't comment on President Donald Trump's health, as the president remains hospitalized at Walter Reed Medical Center for the coronavirus At 1 a.m. Friday, the White House announced the president and first lady had tested positive for the virus. There is a chance that the president could be testing negative by October 15 the date of the next debate. However, as of Monday, Trump remained hospitalized at the Walter Reed Medical Center. Biden wouldn't comment on the president's health. 'I am reluctant to comment on anything on the president's health - what he's doing and not doing,' the former vice president said. 'I'll leave that to the docs to talk about it, but I'm not going to comment on any of his conduct or his health, I don't know enough to know.' Then, when asked if he'd prefer the next debate to be virtual of if plexiglass should be used to separate the candidates, Biden said organizers should 'listen to the science.' 'I'm not an expert on it, but I think we should be very cautious, as I've thought all along and I'm going to continue listening to the scientists,' he said. At one point, Biden's wife Jill tugged at him to back up and be more socially distant from the pool of reporters interviewing him. 'And I'm looking forward to the opportunity to do a town hall meeting if that occurs, I have one tonight as a matter of fact,' Biden added. On Monday, the Democratic nominee was headed to Miami - where the second presidential debate is slated to be held - for a town hall event with NBC News, moderated by Lester Holt. He'll also be visiting Little Havana and Little Haiti. And then on the 15th, C-SPAN's Steve Scully was supposed to moderate the second presidential debate with Trump and Biden, which would be in a town hall format. Before Trump's coronavirus diagnosis, the president's campaign was trying to label Scully as biased, with campaign senior adviser Jason Miller tweeting out a picture of Scully and Biden from an event at the vice president's residence in 2016. The Trump campaign was also trying to lay the groundwork that the Commission on Presidential Debates was biased against the president, as they considered changing the rules after last week's debate in Cleveland featured dozens of interruptions, mostly by Trump. In the Members Hall of Parliament House, a portrait of Sir Robert Menzies cuts a stern and sombre image. Menzies, the Liberal prime minister whose sober philosophies defined the postwar era, believed his greatest legacy was to Australian universities. Not just in sciences, which he supported greatly. But in history and literature and in international understanding, the relative neglect of which has left a gruesome mark on this century. He wanted more scientists, and more humanists. In 1951, this exemplar of Presbyterian parsimony introduced Commonwealth Scholarships, whose recipients received free university education. In 1957, he accepted the recommendations of the Murray committee and massively increased Commonwealth funding of university buildings, staff salaries, research and running costs. The fees for humanities degrees are set to increase massively if the Higher Education Bill is passed. Credit:Louise Kennerley The Higher Education Bill, scheduled to be considered by Parliament this week, will undermine Australias research and detract from our national self-understanding. The cost of a humanities degree will more than double, with an annual increase of $7696. The price signal is intended to deflect students from the humanities to disciplines where immediate job relevance and readiness are more objectively identified. If the price signal succeeds in deterring students from families of slender means from studying humanities, the lessons of history will likely go missing from substantial demographic cohorts of our future parliaments. Nothing would have been more anathema to Menzies, with his belief in universal opportunity. Switch the Market flag Open the menu and switch the Market flag for targeted data from your country of choice. for targeted data from your country of choice. Mumbai, Oct 5 : Author-screenwriter Kanika Dhillon on Monday expressed concern over actress Rhea Chakraborty still being in jail. "While d conspiracy theories r being mulled over- A young woman is still in Jail #rheachakroborty @Tweet2Rhea CBI has clearly stated no foul play... how long n under what charges can she be kept in jail- And denied bail?? @NCWIndia can anyone give some answers pls?!" tweeted Kanika, tagging the official account of the National Commission for Women. Kanika's tweet comes at a time when the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) forensic team has stated that Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput had committed suicide, ruling out murder. Late Sushant Singh Rajput's girlfriend Rhea and her brother Showik Chakraborty are among the 20 persons who have been arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) as part of the probe surrounding the drugs angle linked with Sushant's death case. The siblings are currently in judicial custody till October 6. Latest updates on Sushant Singh Rajput Death Mystery Gov. Tom Wolf issued an executive order directing Pennsylvania to join the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. RGGI is a bipartisan multi-state program that works by setting a cap on pollution from power plants, requiring plants to pay for their pollution. Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont and now Virginia are all states within RGGI. As one of the largest polluters in the country, Pennsylvania joining RGGI would have an outsize impact on reducing emissions. HB2025, legislation that attacks the states authority to regulate emissions, passed the State House. Wolf vetoed it. Rep. Steve Samuelson and Sen. Lisa Boscola voted against HB 2025 and deserve our thanks. They now need to support Wolfs veto and support PA in joining RGGI. Since 2009, carbon emissions from power plants in RGGI states have dropped 47%, while economic growth outpaced the rest of the country by 31%. Public health benefits from air quality improvements are estimated at nearly $6 billion. To date, RGGI has raised more than $1.3 billion for energy-efficiency and renewable energy projects. By joining RGGI, its estimated Pennsylvania could reduce its carbon pollution by 180 million tons by 2030. In lieu of federal action, multi-state action like RGGI is the next best thing. There is HR 763 before Congress, co-sponsored by Congresswoman Susan Wild, which prices carbon emissions and returns all proceeds directly to families in the form of a monthly dividend. It deserves to be enacted. John Gallagher Bethlehem Township, Pa. Infections have hit a daily high as Iran undergoes a third wave of the coronavirus. According to the Health Ministry, there have been 3,902 new confirmed coronavirus cases in the last 24 hours. In the same 24 hours, there were 235 deaths, equaling the highest number of daily deaths since July. Iran now has over 475,000 total confirmed coronavirus cases and over 27,000 deaths. According to officials, these are just the confirmed numbers the likely numbers are higher. One of the hardest-hit provinces is Tehran, which had to go on a province-wide shutdown. According to officials from the Tehran Headquarters to Combat Coronavirus, they have been considering shutting down traffic out of Tehran. One of the many problems with the shutdowns is that residents from Tehran have used the occasion to travel north, which is a popular vacation location. Numerous officials in Tehran have made public statements urging Tehran residents not to travel north. Given the high rate of infections in Tehran, traveling to other provinces only causes the virus to spread across multiple provinces. An official with the Tehran Headquarters also said that every hospital in Tehran is dealing directly or indirectly with the coronavirus. He said they have even set up specialized COVID hospitals to deal with patients who have been infected. The Tehran shutdown was announced Oct. 3 and is supposed to last until Oct. 9. The closure shuts down all schools, including public schools, trade schools and religious schools. Officials from the Ministry of Education reaffirmed that the shutting down of schools means that schools will move online and only in-person learning has been canceled. Officials have stressed that they are committed to quality education despite the restrictions. According to the Headquarters head Alireza Zali, a one-week shutdown will not be sufficient. He said that currently only about half of Tehrans residents are using masks, and in some high traffic areas, social distancing is not happening. Zali said for a shutdown to be effective against the coronavirus, a two-week shutdown would be necessary. He also encouraged distance working to slow down high traffic areas. Zali said the Interior Ministry and the Health Ministry are working together to decide how fines for those who do not follow health protocols will be administered. Speaker of Irans parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the heads of the three branches are scheduled to meet to discuss how best to address the ongoing crisis of dealing with the third wave. Ghalibaf has been visiting hospitals and making other public visits in order to raise his public profile. Some of the conversations he has had with people on the streets involved him asking where is President Hassan Rouhani and what is he doing to address the current crisis. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan has asked former servicemen who were demobilized within the last 1 year to voluntarily join the military amid the Azerbaijani attacks. Today, the most combat ready segment of our society are the men who were demobilized from service within the past one year. I am now calling on them to report to the central gathering station starting now and join the Armenian army. They must know that they are being invited to join a life or death battle for their homeland, Pashinyan said in a live address on social media. He said that the ongoing Turkish-backed Azeri aggression isnt simply a matter of Karabakh, but the policy of continuing the Armenian Genocide. Today we must defend our people from genocide, he said. Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan Rolin Erickson, president of Montana Resources for the past 16 years, will retire at the end of 2020, the company announced Monday. Replacing him will be Jack Standa, a Montana Tech alumnus and Philipsburg native who was hired away from his position as general manager of Westmoreland Rosebud Mine at Colstrip. "Im excited to get on to a different chapter," Erickson said. "I've just really enjoyed the last 16 years. I can't believe how fast the time has gone by." "Ive never had a bad job but this has been by far the best, and a lot of that has to do with the group of employees Ive had to work with here," Erickson said. "Over the years they made my job a lot easier." He also praised "the great community support" the mine has gotten from Butte. After decades of successful operations in Butte, Rolin had some big shoes to fill," Washington Companies' owner Dennis Washington said in a news release. "He not only continued the legacy of excellent, low cost operations, but he is a first-rate example of the Washington Companies' leadership quality. Erickson said he's looking forward to Standa's arrival, scheduled for next week, and "beginning the transition." Contacted Monday, Standa said he was in the process of packing up his house in Colstrip. He and his wife Nia have already bought a home in Butte. Standa began his career with Peter Kiewit Construction and eventually held progressively more responsible positions within BHP Minerals in the United States, Canada, Australia and eventually Indonesia. He has a Mining Engineering degree from Montana Tech. "I was on the five-year plan," he said Monday with a laugh. "I started in 1984 and graduated in 1989." Standa also has a master's of Geotechnical Engineering from the University of California, and a master's of Business Administration from the University of Chicago, where his son, Jacob, is currently going to school. "My wife and I are really excited to move to Butte," Standa said Monday. "I know it pretty well, being from Philipsburg and having gone to Tech." Standa said that "as a Montana mining engineer from Tech, the job of president of Montana Resources "is the pinnacle. It's the best job you could have." Erickson said he was looking forward to introducing Standa to Montana Resources' 370 employees, but because of COVID-19 concerns, it will have to be done through a series of smaller meetings. Standa said he's already had a chance to meet with Erickson and the management team, adding that "it's clear that Rolin has a good team up and down the organization." The mine is extraordinarily well-run, Standa said. "The safety culture is probably the best I've ever been associated with, and I look forward to joining that culture," he said. "It's a safe, low-cost operation. It's so well-run already that what's needed is not a change in direction. I want to keep things going, looking for small, continuous improvement." Standa added that he's looking forward to meeting more people in the community. Love 9 Funny 1 Wow 5 Sad 0 Angry 0 Image: Instagram/netflix_in Netflixs docuseries Bad Boy Billionaires: India was mired in controversy as soon as the September release date was announced. It was challenged in two courts, one in Bihar by Saharasri Subrata Roy and another in Hyderabad by Satyams Ramalinga Raju. But, with the Bihar court now vacating its stay order, we can now watch the story of three business tycoons and their alleged saga of greed and fraud. India has always been a land of contradictions. The haves and the have nots travel side by side on Indian roads, and the lives of those living on the streets never ever intersect with the gigantic billboards advertising designer diamond jewelry. When the trailer to the Netflix series Bad Boy Billionaires: India showed up, many wanted to watch the downfall of these super rich men with a sense of glee. The documentary series promised so much more than just a statement of accounts of the alleged frauds, big dreams gone wrong. Also Read: Bad Boy Billionaires: In yet another setback for Netflix, Patna HC dismisses appeal against Sahara Three episodes of Bad Boy Billionaires: India sans the Ramalinga Raju episode was released this morning. I watched it wanting to feel some sense of outrage or some sense of identification with the small guy. Or be amazed at how the rich get away with doing things you and I couldnt even think about. Alas Bad Boy Billionaires does not make you sympathise with either. You come away thinking that the rich will continue doing what they do. You come away aghast at how nonchalant, how unrepentant Nirav Modi looks when he says, No comment when the journalist confronts him about him being a fugitive, how he needs to pay back the creditors. Also Read: Delhi HC seeks Centre, Netflix response to Mehul Choksi's plea on 'Bad Boy Billionaires' docuseries But, there is no catharsis. The documentary does not offer us anything about how every account holder with the bank was paying the price of those unlimited Letters of Undertaking. The documentary gives all this information, but does not show how this scheme resulted in horrors for the common man who saw their savings go up in smoke. In fact, when they interview people close to the three Bad Boy Billionaires, you wonder if theyre trying to soften their image! Kiran Mazumdar Shaw who says shes known Vijay Mallya since they were children claims that Its his ego, that Vijay Mallya is just like a child when his dream airline went belly-up. You want to ask, Who then should pay the price? They show you how the employees were not paid and how one of the wives even committed suicide. Is it enough? It made me wonder if Vijay Mallyas friends and family are all living in a bubble because they understand why he must invite Enrique Iglesias to his 60th birthday party and still not feel like he needs to compensate his employees who have not been paid! His son actually says that in hindsight, it was bad optics, but does not seem to realise that these men and their obsessions come across as more obscene than just a party for the King of Good Times. Not just ours, but internationally it seems that the financial systems are broken, and the rich get away by continuing to borrow money, ask for loan upon loan and then spend their money fighting in courts while the common man has to struggle to make ends meet. The Bad Boy Billionaires: India episode with Subrata Roy fascinated me most because he worked with the commonest man who did not have a permanent address or a bank account. This is shown rather well in the episode. But you know somethings missing when you are not given too many details as to how the money reached the privileged few on top of the pyramid. The documentary shows how Saharasri earned that title and made over a million people believe that they would work for the family. The series shows us how their circle of influence ensures that the people remain entranced. His leather jacket was badass, no? Asks the advertising director who shot the Nirav Modi ads when he sees the footage of fugitive Nirav Modi being finally caught and cornered by a journalist in London. I am amazed. How much money is enough, I wonder. Each of these men started out with a dream, and then could not or would not stop when things got out of hand. And no one seems to be able to tell them to stop. When does a bad boy face the consequences for his actions? Is there punishment for those who aid and abet? Bad Boy Billionaires: India feels less cathartic than it should because the stories have not reached conclusions yet. Manisha Lakhe Is A Poet, Film Critic, Traveller, Founder Of Caferati An Online Writers Forum, Hosts Mumbais Oldest Open Mic, And Teaches Advertising, Films And Communication. She's the model daughter of Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone who is now trying her hand at acting. And Sistine Stallone wowed fans on Sunday as she shared a stunning bikini snap from her recent trip to Tulum, Mexico. The 47 Meters Down star, 22, showed off her incredible figure in a skimpy black bikini bottoms and a matching black crop top. Curvy: Sistine Stallone wowed fans on Sunday when she shared a stunning bikini snap from her recent trip to Tulum The model had clearly just been for swim, as her highlighted locks hung loose and wet while she stood in the shade of a cluster of palm trees. Sistine wore a beaded necklace while she pouted at the camera, with her hands held cooly above her head. She longingly captioned the post: 'Not actually here, but lets pretend'. Sistine had been enjoying her sun-drenched trip to Mexico alongside sister Sophia, 24, and mom Jennifer, 52. Sun-drenched: Sistine is clearly had the time of her life at the resort as she showcased an array of bikinis It will have been a welcome break for the family, who endured COVID-19 lockdown at their family home in Los Angeles. Sistine and Sophia have also recently been reminiscing about the 'beautiful life' of their grandmother Jackie, who passed away last month at the age of 98. During an episode of Heather Dubrows World on PodcastOne last week, the duo revealed that their grandma was still tap dancing and doing Pilates before her death. 'What did you get from your grandma?' the podcast host asked. Tight-knit: Sistine is the daughter of Sylvester Stallone, 74, and Jennifer Flavin, 52 'You know, it's so funny, when I was younger, every time I went over to her house, she had these little Beanie Babies, she collected,' Sistine recalled, before revealing she has about 50 of them in her room. On a more reflective note, Sophia said her grandmother taught her she didn't have to have her entire life mapped out just yet. 'You have your whole life to be old,' Sistine quipped, of what her grandmother would always remind them. The models' uncle, Frank Stallone, announced the news of Jackie's death with a Facebook post last Monday, revealing she 'died in her sleep as she had wished.' The 70-year-old Grammy Award winner also wrote that Jackie 'was a remarkable woman' who worked out 'everyday' and was 'full of spunk and fearless.' 'It was hard not to like her, she was very eccentric and flamboyant person.' Frank provided some impressive details regarding his mother's life, including that she 'lived through prohibition, the depression and World War II.' RCP empowers the participating communities, though community choice aggregation (CCA or community choice), to leverage the collective buying power of their residents and small businesses at large enough scale to dictate the terms of how they buy electricity. Five of the six communities chose to default residents to a 100% renewable electricity product at a fixed and lower price that is less than they otherwise would pay for their standard supply, which is typically a mix of energy derived from fossil fuel and nuclear sources. Orangetown chose to maximize savings for residents by defaulting them to the RCP standard option at a still lower fixed price. Orangetown residents, however, have the option to cede a portion of their potential savings by switching to the 100% renewable option. Residents and businesses in the other communities may also change their supply option or opt out of the program. CCA is promoted by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York State Energy and Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) as a priority climate action. These programs have cut costs for consumers and provide stronger consumer protection. The RCP community choice program is under the oversight of the New York State Public Service Commission. The chart below compares the Orange & Rockland Utilities (ORU) standard rate to the RCP two-year fixed rates for both renewable and standard supply. Both RCP rates (renewable and non-renewable) are lower than the average weighted monthly variable rate paid by ORU customers in the previous 24-month period (August 2018-July 2020). Renewable Rockland Community Power Rates vs. Average ORU Rate (per kWh) Customer Class Average ORU Standard Supply Rate Rockland Community Power 100% Renewable Fixed Rate Rockland Community Power Standard Supply Fixed Rate Residential and Small Commercial $0.07169 $0.07167 $0.06515 "This program is the result of a competitive procurement process," said Mike Gordon, Joule's Chief Executive Officer. "The partnership of communities selected Constellation NewEnergy as their default supplier because they were offered a unique combination of competitive pricing, consumer protection, and 100% renewable power." Upper Nyack Mayor Karen Tarapata commented, "Upper Nyack is proud to have been the first community to sign on with Rockland Community Power. With big issues like climate change, we can feel we have no agency. CCA is a simple way to make a measurable difference in the carbon footprint of our community." "Community choice aggregation provides a rare opportunity to achieve wins for everyone," stated Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann. By participating in this program, Clarkstown residents will have the ability to save green by paying less for electricity, while also going green by purchasing their energy from clean, renewable, sources." Orangetown Supervisor Teresa Kenny said, "Community choice aggregation saves money, provides clean energy, and protects the consumer from unfair contracts and hidden fees. This public benefit is a win-win-win for the residents and businesses of Orangetown." Eligible residents and small businesses will be automatically enrolled in the RCP community choice program but may opt out, at any time, with no penalty. ORU remains responsible for delivery, repair, and billing services for all participants. Prior to program launch, eligible ORU customers will receive a letter from their local government--with a return address of Constellation NewEnergythat will include information on how to opt out of the program. To learn more, please visit rocklandcommunitypower.com. SAVE MORE WITH SOLAR Rockland Community Power is also offering community solar, to those who want to further support locally sourced clean energy and lower their annual electricity bill even more. By subscribing to a local solar farm, utility customers are guaranteed to save up to an additional 10% annually on electricity. The guaranteed savings, received in the form of utility bill credits, are derived from NY State incentives for clean energy generation. Unlike the community choice program, those wishing to participate must enroll. Community solar is open to most ORU residential and small business customers regardless of whether they participate in the CCA. By participating in both the RCP community choice and community solar programs, subscribers can benefit from both the CCA's lower, fixed energy supply rates and guaranteed savings for solar generation. Learn more or enroll at www.rocklandcommunitypower/solar. About Rockland Community Power Rockland Community Power is a community choice aggregation (CCA) programcomprising communities in Rockland County, NYthat enables participants to pay less for renewable energy than they have historically paid for traditional electricity supply. The participating towns and villages have banded together to pool local electricity demand in order to leverage the collective buying power of their residents and small businesses in effort to secure more favorable energy supply rates, protect consumers, and support the generation of clean energy in NY State. The participating communities are the Towns of Clarkstown and Orangetown and the villages of Haverstraw, Nyack, South Nyack, and Upper Nyack. The program was formed in partnership with Joule Community Power. For more information, please visit rocklandcommunitypower.com. About Joule Community Power Joule Community Power (Joule) works with municipalities and local partners to empower communities and facilitate their goals of providing residents and businesses with cleaner and cheaper energy. With no upfront cost to a municipality or its residents, Joule's first-of-kind, integrated Community Power program helps municipalities and consumers (1) save money by gaining leverage to procure less expensive electricity for residents and businesses, (2) make money by creating new revenue opportunities through participation in energy markets, and (3) go green by gaining local control to opt for clean and renewable generation sources. Joule's distinctive expertise in designing and implementing new consumer-protective energy supply contracts was instrumental in the creation of New York State's first community choice aggregation (CCA) energy program. Joule is the only company in NY State offering CCA administrative services with a Public Service Commission-approved implementation plan that integrates community solar projects; and only Joule has the expertise, relationships, and experience to effectively design, implement, and manage such a program. Joule's innovative renewable energy strategy is driving new regulation and encouraging the NY State Public Service Commission to rapidly advance innovative solutions. Having created the blueprint to guide communities through a smooth and empowering decision process, Joule aims to scale its Community Power model across NY State and beyond. Joule also offers capacity tag management services to businesses wishing to reduce their electricity costs by strategically managing their energy consumption. Joule Community Power is a division of Joule Assets. To learn more, visit joulecommunitypower.com. SOURCE Joule Community Power Related Links joulecommunity.com Michigan is on the cusp of major changes to the states expungement laws that could result in thousands of residents getting prior criminal records sealed from public view. Clean Slate legislation designed to expand expungement options for people who have gone several years without committing another offense passed the Michigan Legislature with wide bipartisan support in September. The bills are now poised to become law pending Gov. Gretchen Whitmers signature. The Crown Princess of Norway put on a stylish display as she sat down to speak with one of her country's most beloved authors. Princess Mette Marit, 47, travelled to Oslo's main library, the Deichman Bjorvika, for a sit-down conversation with Geir Gulliksen 56. The royal, who donned a chic patterned dress complete with bird motif, looked delighted to be speaking to the author, who is known for his books, poetry, plays, and children's literature. She was accompanied by her husband, Crown Prince Haakon, also 47, with whom she shares two children - Princess Ingrid, 16, and Prince Sverre, 14. Princess Mette Marit, 47, travelled to Oslo's main library, the Deichman Bjorvika, with Crown Prince Haakon, also 47, for a sit-down conversation with author Geir Gulliksen, 56 The royal, who donned a stylish patterned dress, looked delighted to be speaking with Geir, who is known for his books, poetry, plays, and children's literature Mette-Marit donned a protective face mask as she arrived at the library. but removed it when she began her socially distanced talk with Geir. The royal, who wore her blonde hair loose, added layering to her outfit in the form of a smart black blazer, and completed her ensemble with a pair of nude-coloured heels. As she read from the author's book, the royal was seen putting on a pair of chic transparent glasses. It was a relaxed evening for the royals, who had a fright in late September when King Harald was admitted in hospital breathing difficulties. Mette-Marit cut a stylish figure in a black dress and blazer, which she paired with nude-coloured heels The royal looked delighted to be meeting the successful author, playwright and poet tonight King Harald, 83, tested negative for Covid-19, the palace later announced in a statement. Queen Sonja, also 83, wasted no time in visiting her husband and was seen driving herself out of the hospital car park this morning, accompanied by a friend. In the wake of his father's condition, Crown Prince Haakon has been stepping in and taken over his father's duties, including a scheduled meeting with the Norwegian government, the palace announced. King Harald who ascended to the throne after the death of his father King Olav on January 17 1991, was also admitted to hospital earlier this year and underwent two weeks sick leave. Mette-Marit could be seen putting on a pair of transparent glasses she she spoke during the talk tonight The royal's blonde locks were styled to perfection in a wavy bob - and she kept her makeup to a minimum Speaking at the time Crown Prince Haakon, said it was a difficult period for the family and his father was recovering from dizziness but no serious illness was found. Crown Prince Haakon has stepped in for his father on several previous occasions including, when he became ill in April 2018 with congestion and pain in one foot. King Harald who is the country's first native-born king since the 14th century, won the nation's hearts when he married a commoner and led the mourning in 2011 for the victims of mass killer Anders Behring Breivik. He was also praised globally for a 2016 speech showing support for gay rights, saying: 'Norwegians are girls who love girls, boys who love boys, and girls and boys who love each other.' French President Emmanuel Macron is this week expected to visit the Alpes-Maritimes region in southern France which has been devastated by floods. Torrential rain and flash floods battered the area bordering Italy on Friday, killing at least four people and causing widespread damage. Rescue efforts have been stepped up to find nearly two dozen missing people. "President Emmanuel Macron told me that he is coming to the Alpes-Maritimes. I salute his commitment to our department and our stricken valleys," Eric Ciotti, who is the Member of Parliament from the region, wrote on Twitter. French and Italian rescue services stepped up search efforts on Sunday, estimating that around 20 people were still missing. According to media reports, emergency services recovered at least four bodies on the Mediterranean coast of Liguria in Italy. Rescue efforts were concentrated on the Roya valley where roughly 1,000 firefighters, backed by helicopters and the army, resumed their search for survivors and helped people whose homes were destroyed or inaccessible. Hundreds rescued Emergency services have managed to rescue some 560 habitants, and 150 are still waiting to be evacuated. In the village Breil-sur-Roya, houses were buried in mud and turned-over cars were stuck in the riverbed. The floods were caused by storm Alex which hit France's west coast on Thursday, before moving to southern France and northern Italy. "What we are going through is extraordinary," said Bernard Gonzalez, prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes region, after as much as 60 centimetres (two feet) of rain fell in 24 hours in the worst-affected areas. France declares disaster zone Italy confirmed two people died Saturday, a volunteer firefighter on a rescue operation and a man whose car was washed away. France also announced two fatalities. The first found was a shepherd whose body was pulled from a river near the border. Firefighters later announced a man had been found dead in his car in the southeastern village of Saint-Martin-Vesubie. France has declared the region a natural disaster zone. - (with AFP) Hathras : , Oct 5: It has been exactly seven days since the 19-year-old Dalit girl succumbed to alleged assault injuries in a Delhi hospital and the media has been pursuing the story with a madness that is rarely seen. Despite the fact that hours of footage on TV channels and reams of paper in the print media have been spent on the story, there are still questions that remain unanswered in the Hathras incident where the girl was allegedly raped and strangulated by four men belonging to upper caste Thakur families in Boolgarhi village. RAPE OR NO RAPE? The girl, in the video footage taken by TV channels in the Delhi hospital, is heard saying that she was raped before being strangulated. Her own mother makes different claims in videos taken before and after her daughter's death. In one video, she alleges that Sandeep, one of the accused, tried to strangulate the girl and ran away when the mother called out for help. In another video, she claims that her daughter was sexually assaulted. The girl's brother, who is now also being accused of honour killing, has said that his sister was found without clothes in the field. The question is that why is the family changing its stand repeatedly? As a family member of the accused says, "It is abundantly clear that the family knows that it will get more money and more sympathy if it pushes the rape angle and that this is what they are doing this. Can rape take place at 9.30.in the morning in a field in a village when everyone is out working?" MEDICAL REPORT ADG Law and order Prashant Kumar, meanwhile, has said that the medical report did not confirm rape on the girl. Significantly, the incident took place on September 14 and the girl's medical examination was done on September 22 - eight days later. Medical experts feel that the delay in conducting the medical examination may have contaminated evidences. With the state government denying rape and the family insisting on it, opposition parties are naturally using the issue to target the Yogi Adityanath government. PAST ENMITY The incident is being projected as a result of a caste war between Thakurs and Dalits. However, both the sides are choosing to ignore the fact that violence had taken place, at least twice in one decade, between the families of the girl and the accused persons. The girl's family, apparently, wants to hide this fact because they do not want to dilute the severity of the September 14 incident which led to girl's death. The accused are hiding facts because they do not want to attach a motive to the incident. CASTE WAR While the Boolgarhi village has been split wide open on caste lines on this incident, most of the local residents are unwilling to speak and those who agree, request anonymity. One such resident who spoke to IANS, said, "Everyone knows that the girl was rather friendly with two of the accused. They would often talk on phone and everyone in the village knows about it. The police should take away their mobile phones and check the call records instead of allowing the incident to turn into tamasha." Incidentally, on Friday, the police had confiscated the phones of the family members and some of them raised a hue and cry about this on TV channels after which the phones were given back to them. It is mainly because of this fact that the Thakurs and other upper castes in Hathras, and in the rest of the state, have started rallying behind the four accused persons. Upper caste panchayats are being held to muster support for the accused and the incident is snowballing into a caste war. DISTRICT MAGISTRATE'S ROLE The role of the district magistrate Praveen Kumar Laxar has been under the scanner. Sources insist that it was Laxar who forced the cremation at night and got the family locked up when they began protesting. Later, when he banned media entry into the village on Friday, he reportedly misbehaved with the victim's family which further aggravated the crisis. Laxar reportedly is connected to a top BJP leader and is this what has stalled his removal/transfer from Hathras? MEDIA MANAGEMENT Another unanswered question in the Hathras incident is the media management by those close to the family. According to sources, TV channels were asked to reach Hathras before even the girl's mortal remains could reach there. The police made a huge mistake by cremating the body in the dead of the night without realising the media presence at the site. As TV channels went all out to highlight the nocturnal cremation, the government was left red in the face. The question is, who managed the media presence in Boolgarhi village for the victim's family to ensure that the issue turns into a national event? Who stands to gain from highlighting the incident and why and how did the media allow itself to be used? A senior government official said on Monday they had recordings of conversations between the family and mediapersons who are telling them what statements to make. "We have registered an open FIR and investigations will reveal the truth," the official said. DAMAGE CONTROL The Yogi government launched a damage-control exercise after the damage had already been done. Yogi Adityanath brought in additional chief secretary Navneet Sehgal to take charge of information. Sehgal is known for his excellent handling of the media and shares a warm rapport with mediapersons. Though he may not be able to undo the damage that has already been done, he can certainly prevent further damage. The chief minister has also hired a PR firm that is focusing mainly on foreign media and national outlets. However, the PR agency has not done much till now to redeem the situation. POLITICS Even though every political party is pushing the humanity angle in the Hathras case, it is evident that with a year and a half left for assembly elections in UP, the opposition is using the incident to target the Yogi Adityanath government. The chief minister is single-handedly battling the opposition with virtually no support from ministerial colleagues even the party. The Hathras incident has become a 'Yogi versus the rest' battle and this situation raises more questions than it answers, in politics. -- Syndicated from IANS The Nest Audio is a surprisingly hefty thing. Its compact, but dense, packing a lot into a footprint not much taller than an iPhone. At 2.65 pounds, its 2.5x the weight of the original Home. Its clear that, above all, Google was interested in offering up something premium, in spite of a quite reasonable $99 price point. It certainly took the company long enough. Its been four years since the first device arrived thats a lifetime on the scale of smart home devices. But while Google introduced a slate of new products and delivered a key update to its smaller sibling, the Mini, its flagship smart speaker remained untouched, in all of its air freshener designed glory. In four years, Google has proven less interested in hardware upgrades than Amazon. Thats not a huge surprise from a company thats long suggested that software not hardware is at the heart of product evolution. But even Google knows that software can only take you so far when it comes to things like premium audio. Thats where the new device comes in. Image Credits: Brian Heater Nest Audios name represents two key things. First, its the last of Googles smart speaker/smart screen line to adopt the Nest title, cementing its 2014 Nest acquisition as its smart home brand. Its not quite accurate to say that the Nest brand encompasses all of Googles Home products after all, a new Chromecast was launched this week with Google branding, but then, no ones ever accused Google of being consistent about such things. The Audio bit finds Google following a similar journey as Amazon. The first generation of smart speakers focused significantly more on the smart than the speaker. The devices were primarily considered a way to deliver smart assistants into the home certainly not something that was set to replace anyones home stereo. But Apple, for all of its issues bringing Siri into a home setting, proved that users were willing to invest in a premium product so long as a company could demonstrate superior audio. Google followed up with the Home Max and Amazon did so first by beefing up the sound of the standard Echo, and more recently introducing the Echo Studio. Theres also the matter of the Samsung Galaxy Home, but the less said about the unreleased speaker and Bixby in general the better. Story continues With Nest Audio, Google is looking to prove that good sound shouldnt be the exclusive realm of high-end speakers. It even went so far as dropping $30 off the price of the original Google Home putting it in line with current Echo pricing. The internals have been considerably upgraded, as well. A 50mm full-range driver (40mm on the Nest Mini) has been upgraded to a 75mm woofer for much stronger bass. Two passive radiators, meanwhile, have been swapped out for a 19mm tweeter to complete the picture. Image Credits: Brian Heater The speaker is also capable of getting really loud 75% louder than the original Home, according to the company. Its too loud for my apartment. Though I would advise against relying on a single speaker to fill a large space, as stuff gets distorted at peak volumes. A speaker of this caliber is best paired with another which is, thankfully, something Google does reasonably well. As it stands, the Nest Audio is quite clear and full, given its pricing and size. For space like the living room in my one-bedroom New York apartment, its got pretty good sound. The design means that (like the new Echo) you get pretty good audio from all sides though the company cautions against, stay, sticking it deep on a bookshelf, or else you may deal with some muddy reverb. Its clear that Google knew it had to step up its game to deal with superior audio from third-party speaker makers like Sony who have embraced Google Assistant, and its done a pretty good job here. I still prefer the much heftier and massive Google Home Max thats currently sitting by my computer on my desk. Size really does matter in the world of speakers, for a number of pragmatic reasons, including how it moves air to create sound. That said, you can currently purchase three Nest Audios for the price of a single Google Max, so that may be something worth considering, depending on your setup and the layout of your home. Groups and pairing are one of the strongest reasons to consider these device. The Google Home app setup is extremely simple in that regard, and presents an extremely simple and fairly inexpensive way to set up a home audio system. You can either pair two of the same speakers to create stereo (a solid choice for, say, flanking the computer screen) or simply creating groups for multiple speakers to fill a space. I do the latter with my own home setup. Its usually a good solution, though even at this point in the life of the devices, it can still be pretty buggy. A lot of this comes down to Wi-Fi and connectivity issues, but it can be frustrating. Wireless systems are a lot easier but less reliable than simply wiring up your system the old-fashioned way. And of course, theres the fact that the more wireless devices you install, the more strain theres going to be on your home network. Image Credits: Brian Heater There are some nice tweaks to the system, as well. Ambient IQ actually turns up assistants voice when there are sounds in the background, while Media EQ dynamically adjusts the balance depending on what youre listening to be it music or a podcast, turning up the vocal output for the latter. The speakers design has improved dramatically. We mocked the original Home for looking like a Glade air freshener since day one, and that criticism still stands. The Nest Audio, meanwhile, if far more unassuming. Covered entirely in fabric with a design that Google freely admits was inspired by a pillow, its designed to blend in with its decor which, frankly, is precisely what a smart speaker should do. There are five colors: white (chalk), black and Sage, Sand and Sky all pastels. Odds are pretty good youll find one that fits your home. Google sent me a black one, which is likely what I would have chosen myself. And bonus points for the fact that the fabric is made from recycled water bottles, like the Nest Mini before it. The Nest Audio is a long overdue upgrade to the companys line of smart home devices and one that puts the focus on sound, precisely where it should be. Dr. Scott Gottlieb on Monday lamented the persistent spread of the coronavirus in the U.S., suggesting the nation's response pales in comparison to other places around the world. "The entire Pacific Rim has less than 1,000 infections a day. Having a raging epidemic is not inevitable," Gottlieb said on CNBC's "Squawk Box," referring to countries such as China, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea and Australia. "People want to say China is lying about the two dozen cases that they're reporting a day, which I don't believe they are [lying]. Certainly, the entire Pacific Rim isn't in on the conspiracy. It isn't inevitable that we have a raging epidemic," added the former Food and Drug Administration commissioner under President Donald Trump. Gottlieb's comments come as some states and cities in the U.S., particularly those in the Midwest and some neighborhoods in New York City, are experiencing growing outbreaks of Covid-19, and while Trump is hospitalized with the disease. The European continent also began to see increasing cases last month, with Paris and its suburbs being put on "maximum alert" Monday. "This seems to be something in Western democracies where things like masks have become part of a political debate over individual liberty and we just can't bring ourselves to wear them," Gottlieb said. "People talk about the importance of opening schools, and then they argue against masks." Gottlieb emphasized that there are ways to prevent the spread of the coronavirus without implementing widespread lockdowns. He has previously defended the initial stay-at-home measures from states in March, saying the country did not have enough testing to know where the virus was spreading. However, he said that now, in this stage of the outbreak, those should be used only on a targeted basis in cities with dense epidemics, provided the country can abide by other known strategies to minimize coronavirus spread. "Nothing is going to be zero risk. But if we do it on a large scale, there are ways to allow important activities to continue," Gottlieb said. "But if we're going to say, 'Look we don't want to wear masks, we don't want to close the bars, and we don't want to have this thing spread,' that's not going to add up. We're going to have to make some sacrifices." Gottlieb and numerous public health experts have warned that the U.S. could experience a significant rise of coronavirus cases in the fall and winter, as colder weather brings more people indoors. It appears that a resurgence is underway, Gottlieb said. "We're going to get through this and we're going to get to the other side of it. The question is, how much death and suffering we endure along the way, as well as economic hardship too?" Gottlieb said. Some people have raised concerns about whether coronavirus restrictions represent civil liberty violations. Last month, for example, a federal judge struck down some policies implemented by Pennsylvania's Gov. Tom Wolf, including a ban on large gatherings. The restrictions have been allowed to remain while the Democratic Wolf administration appeals the ruling. Gottlieb pushed back on the suggestion that public health restrictions were unenforceable in the United States. "It's not a question of just enforcing them. It's a question of whether or not as a population, we want to take some simple, collective action to preserve the things that are important to us." Description The newly opened True Food Kitchen at Roosevelt Field Mall offered a healthy hello to frontline healthcare workers at NYU Winthrop Hospital in Mineola on Tuesday, September 8th. True Food Kitchen general manager Michael Thomas delivered 75 healthy meals for healthcare workers at NYU Winthrop thanking them for their service during the COVID pandemic. The new healthy, flavor-forward restaurant opened its doors on September 1st after a five month delay due to COVID-19. With new health and safety protocols in place, the national concept opened its 34th location in the country and first in New York. We are honored to become part of the Long Island community and wanted to share a healthy hello to our neighbors at NYU Winthrop Hospital. Delivering meals to the frontline healthcare workers is our way of saying thank you for all you have been doing during this pandemic. We are excited to finally have the community experience our philosophy and food, shares Shannon Keller, Chief Marketing Officer, True Food Kitchen. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-04 00:07:24|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close The British national flag is lowered down outside the European Parliament in Brussels, Belgium, on Jan. 31, 2020. The United Kingdom's withdrawal agreement will enter into force upon the UK's exit from the EU on Friday night, ending the country's 47-year membership. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong) According to Phinnemore, the fact that the EU has not walked away from talks over a post-Brexit trade deal means that they "clearly want to have an agreement with the UK." LONDON, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Even before the end of the latest round of trade talks between Britain and the European Union (EU) on Friday, the EU has launched legal proceedings against the island country as the British government refused to ditch plans to override parts of the Brexit divorce deal. But according to David Phinnemore, professor of European politics at Queen's University Belfast, a trade deal is still possible as the two sides have refrained from walking away from the negotiating table. LEGAL ACTION, NO SURPRISE According to Phinnemore, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his government should not be surprised by the EU's position to pursue legal action. "First off, if you're going to break the terms of an agreement you've completed with the EU and there are mechanisms in place for either side to respond to infringement, then you must fully expect the other side to use those measures," Phinnemore told Xinhua. "I think they may have been surprised as to how willingly the EU wants to use them. And also possibly some of the backlash that it's been faced in terms of the reaction to the prospect of the UK not meeting its international legal obligations," he added. A deadline set out by the EU for the British government to remove sections of the Internal Market Bill expired on Wednesday. Observers say the "letter of formal notice" could eventually lead to a court case against Britain at the European Court of Justice. But according to Phinnemore, the fact that the EU has not walked away from talks over a post-Brexit trade deal means that they "clearly want to have an agreement with the UK". "The EU doesn't want to collapse the negotiations. But at the same time, it wants to ensure that the UK is meeting its commitments, its obligations towards the EU, as the nuclear option would have been to stop the negotiations, but there was no need to do that because you've got the infringement proceeding, pro-impeachment proceedings available to you," Phinnemore said. "I think it's following due process what was provided for in the agreement, and in doing so reminding the UK of its obligations and expectations but at the same time, not collapsing the talks on the UK-EU trade relationship." European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen makes a statement on the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement between the EU and the UK, in Brussels, Belgium, Oct. 1, 2020. The European Union (EU) launched an infringement procedure against the United Kingdom (UK) on Thursday over a contentious bill that allegedly breaches the Brexit deal reached by the two sides in January 2020. (Xinhua) ONGOING TALKS Despite a lack of a major breakthrough in the trade talks, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and Johnson have agreed to a video conference call on Saturday to "take stock" of negotiations and "discuss next steps". Phinnemore said that he believes that these talks are significant. "At some point, during any set of negotiations, which are highly technical, you'll reach the point where you need to bring in the principles to try and unlock the issues on which there continues to be an impasse. And it's always been anticipated that at some point, you would have to bring in the prime minister and someone from the EU side," he said. "I think what's important is the fact that we're running up against a deadline, time is running out," he said. "If there has to be an agreement for the end of October, middle of November, then you probably need to get the political decisions that will create the space for the technical negotiations to be drawn to conclusion, you need those big decisions taken sooner rather than later." SENSE OF URGENCY Britain and the EU ended the last round of formal talks in Brussels on Friday. Britain's Chief Negotiator David Frost said Friday that outlines of a trade agreement with the European Union (EU) are "visible" while in some areas familiar differences still remain. State subsidy and fisheries remain two sticking points for the Britain-EU talks. Frost said there has been some "limited progress" in the level-playing field but the EU needs to move further before an understanding can be reached. Frost's EU counterpart, Michel Barnier, said there are "positive new developments" on some topics, but he warned there is "a lack of progress" on some important topics like the protection of personal data, climate change commitments or carbon pricing, as well as persistent serious divergences on matters of major importance for the EU. Meanwhile, London and Brussels have agreed to continue talks over the next two weeks ahead of the critical EU summit on Oct. 15. "If the UK government is serious about getting a deal, it's got to get that political agreement on the terms of that within the next week, 10 days, if you're going to keep the timetable whereby the agreement is in place for the first of January, so there is a genuine sense of urgency here," Phinnemore said. Britain and the EU started the lengthy and bumpy post-Brexit talks in March after Britain ended its EU membership on Jan. 31, trying to secure a future trade deal before the Brexit transition period expires at the end of the year. If there is no deal in place, Britain will trade with the EU on terms of the World Trade Organization. A vehicle moves past a billboard in Jonesborough, Northern Ireland, the United Kingdom, on Jan. 31, 2020. The United Kingdom will leave the European Union (EU) on Jan. 31, 2020. (Photo by Paul McErlane/Xinhua) The deaths of two Dalit women after they were allegedly gang-raped in Hathras and Balrampur are likely to figure during the campaign for the seven assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh for which bypolls are to be held next month. According to estimates, the state's population comprises around 20 per cent Dalits. With their support, the Bahujan Samaj Party had formed the government in the state in 2007. In 2017, the Bharatiya Janata Party formed a majority government and in 2012 the Samajwadi Party had formed the government by denting the BSP's Dalit votebank, post-election analysis had revealed. Of the 84 seats reserved in UP for SC and ST candidates, the BJP won 69 seats in the 2017 assembly elections, in the 2012 polls the SP had got 58 of these seats and in 2007 the BSP had secured 62 reserved seats. Ashok Chowdhury, a Dalit politics expert said, "BJP had impressed the Dalits in the 2014, 2017 and 2019 elections, but it's difficiult to retain them now". The deaths following the alleged gangrapes in Hathras and Balrampur have become a political issue in the state. Even after the suspension of Hathras Superintendent of Police and recommendation of a CBI probe by the state government, the opposition is taking up these issues in a big way. Whie Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and BSP supremo Mayawati have demanded action against the Hathras District Magistrate, SP president Akhilesh Yadav has demanded a narco analysis test of the officers deployed in Hathras at the time of incident. For damage control, BJP's Dalit leader and minister Ramapati Shastri has alleged that the opposition did not want the truth about the Hathras incident to come to the fore and wanted "caste and communal violence there". Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also said those who do not like development are trying to orchestrate "cast and communal" riots in the state and playing politics and doing conspiracies. In a bid to maintain its hold on the Dalit vote, BJP roped in Republican Party of India leader Ramdas Athawale, who visited Lucknow on Saturday and justified action taken by the CM and attacked the opposition. Dalit academic Badri Narayan said, "Those in power should act and those in opposition should raise their voice. Those who were seen on the ground will get the benefit. If government did not take timely action, it will have to face losses (in future elections)." SP spokesperson Rajendra Chowdhry said, "The people of the state have understood that SP is the only alternative in the state. BJP will get to know about its position in the bypolls." The bypolls are scheduled to be held on November 3 for seven assembly seats out of which six were held by the BJP in 2017 after the last assembly elections in the state. The Samajwadi Party had won the seventh seat, Malhani (in Jaunpur). The assembly elections are scheduled to be held in the state in 2022. Among seven seats going to the bypolls, Naugaon (Amroha) seat got vacated due to the death of minister Chetan Chauhan, Ghatampur (Kanpur) due to death of minister Kamal Rani Varun, Bulandshahr due to the death of Virendra Singh Sirohi, Tundla (seat) on Firozabad due to election of MLA SP Singh Baghel as MP, Bangarmau (Unnao) seat due to conviction of Kuldeep Singh Sengar, Deoria seat due to the death of Janmejay Singh. Malhani seath (in Jaunpur) got vacated due to the death of SP MLA Parasnath Yadav. Congress state President Ajay Kumar Lallu said his party would contest all seven seats. BJP state president Swatantra Dev Singh, however, said the ruling party's workers were helping people during the coronavirus pandemic and the people will keep that in mind while voting. Amid the rising tensions in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Armenian counterpart Zohrab Mnatsakanyan discussed the situation in the disputed region. In a telephone conversation, Russia expressed concern over the increase casualties among the civilian population and urged for an early ceasefire. In a statement, the Russian foreign ministry reaffirmed Moscows readiness to assist the parties in returning the Nagorno-Karabakh settlement process to the political and diplomatic channels under the auspices of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group in accordance with the joint statement of the presidents of Russia, the United States and France. READ: Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: Azerbaijan Says No End To Fight Until Armenia Withdraws Troops The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Russia, France, and the US) had earlier released a statement, condemning the continued violence in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone. They expressed alarm at reports of increasing civilian casualties and said that targeting or threatening civilians is never acceptable under any circumstances. The co-chairs stressed that participation in the escalating violence by external parties undermines efforts to achieve lasting peace in the region. They reiterated their call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the resumption of substantive negotiations, in good faith and without preconditions. READ: Armenia Detains Foreign Citizens On Suspicion Of Espionage Amid Tensions With Azerbaijan Azerbaijan-Armenia conflict The two former Soviet states are in an armed stand-off for years over the Nagorno-Karabakh, a landlocked region in the South Caucasus, and heavy clashes re-erupted on September 27, prompting fears of an all-out war. The new fight is considered to be the heaviest in decades. Hundreds of people have been killed in the past week, including over 40 civilians. The fight between the two countries has raised international concern about stability in the South Caucasus, where pipelines carry Azeri oil and gas to world markets. With fears of the clashes expanding into an all-out, multi-front war, there is a possibility that the fighting could also be stuck in regional powers Turkey and Russia. While Ankara is Azerbaijans strongest supporter, Moscow, on the other hand, has a military base in Armenia. Earlier, Armenia even accused Turkey of supplying fighters to the conflict, drawing them out of northern-Syria. (Image: @AzerbaijanMOD/Twitter) READ: Georgia Urges Armenia, Azerbaijan To Start Dialogue READ: Azerbaijan Claims Village Seizure In Fighting With Armenia Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer speaks before Democratic vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris at the Detroit Pistons Practice Facility in Detroit, Mich., on Sept. 22, 2020. (Jeff Kowalsky/AFP via Getty Images) Michigan Attorney General Will No Longer Enforce Governors COVID-19 Orders Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel will no longer enforce state executive orders related to COVID-19 through criminal prosecution, her office announced in a recent statement. The Michigan Supreme Court ruled last week that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, declared and kept extending a state of emergency without the proper authority. In light of the Supreme Courts decision on Friday, the Attorney General will no longer enforce the governors executive orders through criminal prosecution, Ryan Jarvi, press secretary for the attorney general, said in a statement. However, her decision is not binding on other law enforcement agencies or state departments with independent enforcement authority. Its her fervent hope that people continue to abide by the measures that Governor Whitmer put in placelike wearing face masks, adhering to social distancing requirements, and staying home when sicksince theyve proven effective at saving lives, he added. If it werent for the governors actions, countless more of our friends, family, and neighbors would have been lost to COVID-19. We can respect both the courts decision and the advice of medical experts by continuing with these important measures voluntarily. Nessel is the top law enforcement official in Michigan. Dana Nessel, then-attorney, speaks to reporters in Detroit, on Oct. 16, 2013. (Bill Pugliano/Getty Images) Other law enforcement officials in the state announced early on they wouldnt strictly enforce Whitmers stay-at-home order and other mandates. While we understand her desire to protect the public, we question some restrictions she has imposed as overstepping her executive authority, four sheriffs from northern Michigan wrote in a joint statement in April. She has created a vague framework of emergency laws that only confuse Michigan citizens. Whitmer criticized the court ruling in a statement, calling the decision deeply disappointing. With this decision, Michigan will become the sole outlier at a time when the Upper Peninsula is experiencing rates of COVID infection not seen in our state since April, she added, noting the ruling doesnt take effect for 21 days. Furthermore, after 21 days, many of the responsive measures I have put in place to control the spread of the virus will continue under alternative sources of authority that were not at issue in todays ruling, she said. A protester throws fake money with President Trumps face on it into the air on the steps of the state Capitol during Operation Haircut in Lansing, Michigan, on May 20, 2020. The protest was part of a national movement against stay-at-home orders. (Elaine Cromie/Getty Images) COVID-19 is a disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus. Whitmers press secretary, Tiffany Brown, issued a followup statement to news outlets on Oct. 4, saying Whitmer hoped to work with Republicans in the state Legislature to find common ground. But the governor wont let partisan politics get in the way of doing whats necessary to keep people safe and save lives, Brown added. We will have more to say on this in the coming days. Before the ruling, Whitmer had extended the state of emergency through Oct. 27, even though the number of new CCP virus cases has sharply declined since the emergency was originally declared. Michigan House Speaker Lee Chatfield, a Republican, was among those praising the Supreme Court ruling. The governor had no right to extend the state of emergency over the Legislatures objection. Our Constitution matters, and this was a big win for our democratic process, he said in a statement. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. The Azerbaijani armed forces have launched a new attack from the southern direction of the Artsakh front, the Armenian Defense Ministry spokesperson Shushan Stepanyan said. The adversary has restarted attack operations in the southern direction of the Artsakh front. Intense battles are taking place. The Defense Army units are delivering a worthy counterstrike to the enemy forces, she said. Meanwhile, Artsakhs capital city Stepanakert is under intense missile attacks from Azerbaijan. Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan Efforts to improve the visual appeal of a busy residential estate in Longford town will only be brought to fruition if local residents pay a certain proportion of the costs. That was the overriding admission delivered by council bosses over calls for the local authority to take in charge Leader Park, a well populated estate just off the main Dublin Road and Teffia Park areas of Longford town last week. Cllr John Browne had previously raised the topic at a meeting of the local authority and asked for the council to step in. However, at last weeks Municipal monthly meeting, area engineer Eamon Bennett said the only avenue open to households was if a certain proportion of monies was raised by residents themselves. It will have to be brought up to standard as its not a public road, he said. They will have to apply for a Local Improvement Scheme and that requires them to provide a certain percentage of the money. Until the works are done and brought up to a certain standard it cant be taken in charge. Mr Bennett said he was unaware of a scheme which was currently open to local residents, indicating the onus was on residents to set aside finance in order for improvement works to be undertaken. In response, Cllr Browne asked if a proposal could be put together to determine if a request for financial contribution could be made from the owners of properties in the estate. There is (a large percentage of) rental property down there and you are talking about landlords, he contended, adding he had no vested interest in the estate itself. Director of Services John Brannigan, meanwhile, said it was incumbent on owner occupiers and landlords to offer some form of financial donation to any prospective works. If there is to be investment down there with properties they (owners) have a liability, he said. 05.10.2020 LISTEN In his obvious attempt to use politics to shoot down the mortuary promises for Muslims being made by the former President John Dramani Mahama, the Ashanti Regional Chief Imam Sheik Abdulai Mummin Haroun who allegedly bent on inciting Muslims against the hatred of Mahama has backfired as number of Muslims have called on Ghanaians to treat him with contempt or consider his antimortuary stance for Muslims as his own opinion. Speaking to Modernghana reporter in Kumasi in reaction to what he termed as Chief Imams effusions and attempt to belittle the intelligence of Muslim Communities, the Chairman for Muslim Executive Foundation, Alhaji Musah Abubakari indicates that Sheik Mummin Harouns series of press conferences in Kumasi against former President Mahamas promise to build mortuary for Muslim communities throughout the country does not form part of Muslims believes in the Koran. He urges the Chief Imam to come out with better alternative if he wishes to dabble in politics with the former President John Dramani Mahama and his promise for Muslims. Alhaji Musah noted that former President Mahama and his NDC party never forced into their Peoples Manifesto, the promise to build mortuaries for the Muslims when he wins power, instead it was rather the Muslims who gave him the green light to build the mortuaries when he met the various group towards the development of the party's manifesto. Chairman Musah who was speaking on behalf of the Foundation conceded the fact that the religion allows them to bury the dead some hours a Muslim gives up the ghost. He said in most cases some of the deaths of a Muslim demand investigation before burial which requires that the dead body be deposited in the morgue until formalities are completed. He added that since Muslims also deserves better just like any religious body, mortuary is the best alternative. Alhaji Musah asserted that unknown to the public, Muslims have a mortuary at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital to serve such purpose. According to him, the Ashanti Regional Chief Imam who has kept quiet to educate the public about the Pro-Muslims mortuary existence know about the facility which is located at KATH. Our topmost agenda is to organise and maintain the existing or build an ultra-modern mortuary across the country for our own good should any government fails to consider our plight, he told Modernghana reporter. He added that Mr Mahamas promise is most welcome news to the Muslim Communities with the hope of the majority that all the 16 regions in the country would embrace Mahamas promise and pray for his victory to come true to enable him fulfil his good promise. This, he stressed, that if the Ashanti Chief Imam has any bone of contention with the former President Mahama, he cannot use politics as a cover to divide the front of the peaceful and wellunited Muslims. Muslim Executive Foundation, is a Pro- Muslim Movement, headquartered in Kumasi and consists of Muslims intellectuals like lawyers, lecturers, businessmen, engineers, journalists, bankers among others who undertake Muslim youth and elderly through socio-economic and political workshops across the country to ensure that the youth becomes abreast with their civil rights, dos and donts and what happens around them to lead exemplary lives in the society. Warning over speeding in Glen Mona Police in the north of the Island are warning drivers to watch their speed. The force has received a number of complaints about vehicles going too fast near to Dhoon School in Glen Mona. Officers have taken to social media and are urging motorists to watch their speed when driving through school zone areas. PARIS Frances Veolia succeeded in its bid to buy a 29.9% stake in waste and water management rival Suez on Monday, paving the way for a full takeover offer despite an attempt by the French government to stall the deal. Veolia said it would launch a tender offer at 18 euros a share, the same price it offered power group Engie for its stake, in a deal that would value Suez at 11.2 billion euros ($13.20 billion). It aims to reinforce its reach globally thanks to the takeover, in a highly fragmented industry. Veolia has met with fierce opposition from Suez so far, and the deal has been plagued by hostilities between the parties. In another twist on Monday, the French state, a major shareholder in Engie, voted against selling the stake to Veolia, although a majority of the utilitys board gave its approval. The dissent raised eyebrows in France, where the government usually has a strong influence on the companies in which it has a stake. Veolia said it wanted to resume discussions with Suez as of Tuesday, after pledging not to launch its tender offer until it got approval from its targets board. It has argued the deal will create a world super champion in waste and water management, better equipped to take on rivals emerging from China, while the takeover would also lead to cost savings of 500 million euros from the first year. In a bid to overcome antitrust hurdles, as the two firms manage much of Frances water supply, it confirmed a plan to sell Suezs French water business to infrastructure fund Meridiam. It added that Meridiam would guarantee jobs and invest in the business. Remaining hurdles Despite a growing war of words between Suez and Veolia, Engie Chairman Jean-Pierre Clamadieu said he believed the two could reach an agreement now the matter of the stake sale was resolved. I witnessed the start of a dialog, Clamadieu told reporters. The French government, which had been trying to mediate between the parties and had urged them to take their time, had been holding out for Veolia and Suez to bury the hatchet before the stake sale, Clamadieu added. He said relations with the state were still good but that the company and the government had been defending different interests. Veolia had hiked its offer for the stake to 3.4 billion euros, and Engie, which is trying to simplify its unwieldy structure and sell assets, said on Monday it would make a capital gain of 1.8 billion euros before tax on the sale. Suez has repeatedly called Veolias approach hostile. It has warned it could lead to job losses, and the row had spilled into politics too. Last week several French parliamentarians, mostly from President Emmanuel Macrons party, also questioned the industrial logic of the deal and the rush to close it without considering alternatives. Suez had pleaded for more time to come up with another suitor. But the only one that emerged, private equity firm Ardian, walked away earlier on Monday, saying it needed six weeks to do full due diligence on any offer. Suez has put up other hurdles which are yet to be resolved, including after it created a foundation to house its French water business, complicating any takeover. Merger criticized A group opposing private ownership of water resources condemned the merger. In a statement Monday, Food & Water Action Public Water for All Campaign Director Mary Grant said in a statement the deal would lead to global domination of public water services by a single corporation: The merger of the worlds largest water corporations will erode any semblance of competition for water privatization deals. This lack of competition will lead to unaffordable costs for families, slack maintenance and safety procedures, loss of union jobs, and potentially rampant corruption. Water privatization has been a disaster for communities across the United States and around the world. As the fiscal realities of the COVID crisis begin to set in for struggling municipalities, some may consider selling off their valuable water systems as a short-term solution. But this would create long-term harm. Communities must revert all privatized water and sewer systems to public control to ensure safety and affordability for all. Additional reporting by Geert De Clercq. The Post-Dispatch contributed to this report. Representative image White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said on October 5 that she had tested positive for COVID-19. In a short post on Twitter, McEnany stressed that she had tested negative consistently since last week - until today (October 5). I tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday morning while experiencing no symptoms, McEnany said in a statement. No reporters, producers, or members of the press are listed as close by the White House Medical Unit, McEnany added. McEnany spoke to reporters without a mask as recently as October 4. She is at least the 11th person close to US President Donald Trump to be diagnosed with COVID-19. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show White House Press Sec. McEnany says she won't give a detailed readout with timestamps of every time the president's tested" for coronavirus. pic.twitter.com/jKqpseZoJC NBC News (@NBCNews) October 4, 2020 Meanwhile, Trump, who was admitted to a military hospital for the treatment of COVID-19, informed that the team of his doctors was working very hard to get him back, and he would be back soon on the campaign trail. First Lady Melania Trump, who had also tested positive for COVID-19, was doing well too, Trump had confirmed earlier. She's the Victoria's Secret model known for turning heads on the runway. And Georgia Fowler made Bondi Beach her very own catwalk on Sunday as she strutted down the shoreline in a bright yellow bikini. The 28-year-old showcased her impeccably toned figure while soaking up the sun at one of Sydney's most iconic tourist hotspots. Sizzling! Victoria's Secret model Georgia Fowler flaunted her sensational figure in a yellow bikini at Sydney's Bondi Beach on Sunday Georgia looked sensational as she went for a dip in the ocean, alongside many other Sydneysiders enjoying the Labour Day long weekend. She was spotted wading into waist-deep water, but didn't venture too far into the ocean, perhaps because the waves were too choppy. The brunette highlighted her cleavage and toned tummy in her triangle bikini, which was tied at the back in an odd side knot. Turning heads: Georgia looked sensational as she went for a dip in the ocean, alongside many other Sydneysiders enjoying the Labour Day long weekend Keeping fit: The brunette highlighted her cleavage and toned tummy in her triangle bikini She also went makeup free, and styled her short, dark locks in messy waves. Georgia certainly stood out from the crowd in her skimpy swimwear, which she accessorised with several rings and a necklace. The model was accompanied by her boyfriend, restaurateur Nathan Dalah, who was drinking a takeaway coffee on the sand. That's cheeky! Georgia's bikini bottoms clung tightly to her pert derriere Just a dip: She was spotted wading into waist-deep water, but didn't venture too far into the ocean, perhaps because the waves were too choppy Georgia confirmed her relationship with Nathan in February, when the couple attended Paris Fashion Week together. She has been living with her businessman beau in Sydney since April. Nathan, who is the co-founder of salad chain Fishbowl, didn't go in the water and kept on his shirt and shorts while his girlfriend stripped off. Lovebirds: The model was accompanied by her boyfriend, restaurateur Nathan Dalah Who needs a towel? After returning to the shore, she dried off under the baking hot sun Georgia kept her belongings safe in her Loewe Raffia Summer bag, which costs $970. After drying off under the sun, she put on a pair of high-waisted denim shorts and tied a beige business shirt around her shoulders. She then kissed her boyfriend, before the duo packed up their belongings and left. Chic: Georgia went makeup free, and styled her short, dark locks in messy waves Still going strong: Georgia confirmed her relationship with Nathan in February, when the couple attended Paris Fashion Week together Pucker up! The pair looked loved-up as they shared a few kisses on the beach Expensive taste: Georgia kept her belongings safe in her Loewe Raffia Summer bag, which costs $970 After the couple's brief outing, they headed back to their car. Georgia was seen looking at Nathan's watch as they left the beach, which suggests they may have been in a rush to get somewhere. Later in the day, they shared a meal at the Ormeggi seafood restaurant in Mosman, before boarding a luxury yacht. Prince William will tell how becoming a father 'changed his outlook' on saving endangered species in an ITV conservation documentary airing tonight. The Duke of Cambridge, 38, was followed by cameras for two years as he embarked on a global mission to mobilise action for the natural world. The resulting programme, Prince William: A Planet For Us All, will be broadcast at 9pm. During one visit to Tanzania's Mkomazi National Park, Prince William explains how having children Prince George, seven, Princess Charlotte, five, and Prince Louis, two, spurred him into taking action to help save the rhinos. Prince William will tell how becoming a father 'changed his outlook' on saving endangered species in an ITV conservation documentary airing tonight During one visit to Tanzania's Mkomazi National Park, Prince William explains how having children Prince George, seven, Princess Charlotte, five, and Prince Louis, two, spurred him into taking action to help save the rhinos. Pictured, in a photo taken at Kensington Palace He says: 'Now I've got George, Charlotte, and now Louis. Your outlook does change and that's why I had to do something because I really felt like by the time my children were 20, at the rate poaching was at, there may not have been another rhino in the world.' The prince was filmed observing rhinos in their natural habitat and fed a carrot to one female named Deborah. 'I like Deborah a lot,' he says. 'I've never known a rhino to be called Deborah before.' He continues: 'They are a prehistoric, odd-looking creature but when you get to see their characters and you get to see the family bond they have with their mum, it does make you feel like you're watching a close family unit. 'The fact that they're under so much threat is really quite sad. People might think of them as a big tank, a big hulk of an animal with a big horn but they are incredibly vulnerable. The prince was filmed observing rhinos in their natural habitat and fed a carrot to one female named Deborah, pictured Prince William, 38, fights back tears as he learns of the threat climate change poses to the planet's wildlife in a new TV documentary Elsewhere, in stirring scenes filmed at a heavily guarded ivory facility in Tanzania in 2018, where 43,000 tusks with a street value of 50million have been impounded, the father-of-three becomes visibly upset over fears for the future of elephants and rhinos 'They don't have brilliant eyesight and people will take advantage of that. And they want this horn, which is effectively nail. That's all it is, it's fingernail.' Getting close to one rhino, he adds: 'This is where the horn belongs, on a live rhino, and that's where it should stay.' Elsewhere, in stirring scenes filmed at a heavily guarded ivory facility in Tanzania in 2018, where 43,000 tusks with a street value of 50million have been impounded, the father-of-three becomes visibly upset over fears for the future of elephants and rhinos. The royal says: 'It's a mind-blowing number of tusks, it really is. You can't get your head around it.' He also shows anguish over the rhino, which is facing extinction after being hunted for their horns which are used in some cultures for medicine. In other scenes, the Duke says he feels it is his 'duty' to leave the planet in a stronger position for future generations. In Pakistan's Hindu Kush mountains, the duke and his wife saw first hand the effects of climate change on glaciers which are melting at record speeds William says he wants to follow in the footsteps of Prince Charles and the Duke of Edinburgh who he said were 'ahead of their time' so he didn't let his children down. The duke also says the coronavirus crisis had given everyone a greater appreciation of the natural world. He adds: 'If there's any ray of light from this, it is that it allows us to take stock and to refocus our priorities.' The duke calls on humanity to 'speed the pace up' and tackle the growing environmental threat to the planet. Speaking in the new documentary, William suggests he expects to be criticised for his views, saying: 'Someone has to put their head above the parapet and say, I care about this.' And he highlights how the younger generation - who are typified by the teenage climate change activist Greta Thunberg - are pushing for change and action on the issue. William is visibly moved as he visits a heavily guarded secure ivory store in Tanzania where 43,000 tusks with a street value of 50 million have been impounded (left) and meets with youngsters to discuss wildlife and the significance of the environment The ITV documentary will follow the father-of-three around the world as he embarks on a mission to help stop climate change William has been filmed over the past two years in the UK and countries such as Pakistan and Tanzania for the ITV documentary Prince William: A Planet For Us All, which charts his journey from passionate conservationist to wanting to play a greater global leadership role on the environment. In Pakistan's Hindu Kush mountains, the duke and his wife saw first hand the effects of climate change on glaciers which are melting at record speeds. During the official tour last October, William told the documentary: 'It's a huge environmental and humanitarian disaster. 'And yet, we still don't seem to be picking up the pace and understanding it quick enough. And I think the young are really getting it. The documentary charts his journey from passionate conservationist to wanting to play a greater global leadership role on the environment 'And the younger generation are really wanting more and more people to do stuff and want more action. 'And we've got to speed the pace up. We've got to get on top of it and we need to be more vocal and more educational about what's going on.' In the film, the duke pays tribute to his grandfather the Duke of Edinburgh and father the Prince of Wales for their work supporting the natural world. He says: 'My grandfather, my father have been in environmental work for many years. 'My grandfather's well ahead of his time. My father, ahead of his time. And I really want to make sure that, in 20 years, George doesn't turn round and say, 'are you ahead of your time?' Because if he does, we're too late.' Prince William: A Planet for Us All, tonight ITV, 9pm New York Gov Andrew Cuomo has ordered all schools in nine New York City coronavirus hotspot zipcodes to close and has threatened to shut down religious institutions if they don't agree to comply with social distancing rules. The schools, both public and private, will be required to close from Tuesday onwards in the Brooklyn and Queens neighborhoods where COVID-19 positivity rates have been surging. Cuomo could not immediately confirm exactly how many schools will have to close and for how long. It is believed about 100 public schools and 200 private schools are located within these zipcodes. The number of new COVID-19 cases have been rising in pockets of the city, predominantly in neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Queens that are home to the city's large Orthodox Jewish population. Those areas represent 7 percent of the city's population but have been responsible for more than 20 percent of all new infections over the past four weeks. Many religious schools in these neighborhoods resumed in-person classes in early September. Cuomo also threatened to shut down temples and churches in those neighborhoods following 'super-spreader' mass gatherings that he said 'have been going on for weeks'. Scroll down for video New York Gov Andrew Cuomo has ordered all schools in nine New York City coronavirus hotspot zipcodes to close and has threatened to shut down religious institutions if they don't agree to comply with social distancing rules He said he was meeting directly with Orthodox leaders on Tuesday to seek their help with getting people to comply with the rules. Cuomo said if the religious leaders don't agree to enforce social distancing rules, including mask wearing, he will shut them down. He specifically referenced recent mass gatherings involving members of Orthodox Jewish communities that he said numbered in the thousands. 'We know mass gatherings are the super spreader events. We know there have been mass gatherings going on in these communities for weeks,' Cuomo said. 'These clusters have to be attacked. Stamp them out immediately and dramatically. 'If you do not agree to follow the rules, then we will close the institutions down. I am prepared to do that.' Cuomo said he had spoken to NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio earlier on Monday and said the state would be taking over enforcement in hotspot zipcodes. De Blasio had on Sunday asked Cuomo to close schools and non-essential businesses after test positivity rates rose above 3 percent in those areas for seven days straight. POSITIVE TEST RATES: As of Monday, the statewide infection rate was at 1.01 percent. The average positive test rate in these hotspot neighborhoods in Queens and Brooklyn is at 5.5 percent CASE RATE PER 100,000: The number of new COVID-19 cases have been rising in pockets of the city, predominantly in neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Queens that are home to the city's large Orthodox Jewish population Cuomo, however, has allowed non-essential businesses in those hotspots to remain open for now. He said schools and religious institutions were the main priority because they have greater potential for mass spread. Cuomo said schools in the areas where the virus was spreading hadn't been doing enough testing of students and staff to identify possible outbreaks and he could no longer guarantee they were safe. New York faced one of the nation's earliest and most devastating outbreaks of the coronavirus in the spring but has since managed to largely curtail its spread. As of Monday, the statewide infection rate was at 1.01 percent. Cuomo said the positive test rate in those hotspot neighborhoods was at 5.5 percent. When including the hotspot areas, the statewide rate increased to 1.22 percent. Cuomo and de Blasio have repeatedly squabbled over government responses to the spread of COVID-19. Cuomo again chastised de Blasio on Monday for what he said was lackluster enforcement of social distancing rules. Hundreds of mourners gather in the Brooklyn borough of New York on Tuesday, April 28, to observe a funeral for Rabbi Chaim Mertz, a Hasidic Orthodox leader whose death was reportedly tied to the coronavirus The emphasis on the Orthodox communities rankled many of their members, even as civic and religious leaders acknowledged the dangers posed by the new outbreak and urged compliance with guidelines. 'People are very turned off and very burned out,' said Yosef Hershkop, a Hasidic Jew from Brooklyn who works for a chain of urgent-care centers. 'It's not like we're the only people in New York getting COVID.' The announcement of de Blasio's plan was made on Sunday - the second day of Judaism's Sukkot holiday when Orthodox Jews would not be using telephones or computers and thus wouldn't have heard the news until sundown. 'Announcing this in the middle of a Jewish holiday shows City Hall's incompetence and lack of sensitivity towards the Jewish Community,' tweeted Daniel Rosenthal, a state Assembly member from Queens. Many say they are already straining to balance rituals and traditions centered on communal gatherings with health rules. Rabbis and civic groups are trying to curtail the new outbreak. Last week, Agudath Israel of America, an Orthodox Jewish umbrella organization, worked with the Boro Park Jewish Community Council to distribute 400,000 masks. The Jewish Voice newspaper is urging compliance with health guidelines such as mask wearing and social distancing. However, its publisher, David Ben Hooren, said many Orthodox Jews in Brooklyn and Queens believe they have been unfairly targeted with stringent restrictions that aren't being enforced elsewhere. 'The Jewish community feels they're being singled out and there's some element of ant-Semitism,' he said Monday. 'Not that I agree with it, but thats the sentiment in the street. Tensions are running high.' Cuomo said on Monday that schools and religious institutions were the main priority because they have greater potential for mass spread Cuomo on Monday specifically referenced recent mass gatherings involving members of Orthodox Jewish communities that he said numbered in the thousands Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams hands out masks in the Borough Park this week after the region, which has a high Orthodox Jewish population, reported a spike in COVID-19 cases Rabbi Avi Shafran, director of public affairs for Agudath Israel of America, said a majority of the Orthodox Jewish community 'is determined to do what is necessary' to combat the coronavirus, and adherence to health guidelines has become 'much more common.' He said his organization is discouraging family outings and gatherings this week as Sukkot continues. 'People must comply with any governmental directives that are aimed at curbing spread of the virus,' he said. The latest developments have rekindled friction that surfaced in March and April, when some Orthodox neighborhoods in and around New York City were hit hard by the coronavirus. Hundreds of people died or were hospitalized, and lockdowns closed many Jewish schools and businesses. In April, de Blasio oversaw the dispersal of a big Hasidic funeral in Brooklyn and took heat over a tweet warning 'the Jewish community, and all communities' against large gatherings. Some community members accused him of a double standard because of his support for gatherings linked to the Black Lives Matter movement. KELOWNA, B.C. - The lawyer for a man accused in a shooting that left four people dead in Penticton, B.C., says his client plans to plead guilty next week. John Brittain Rudi Winter, Barry and Susan Wonch and Darlene Knippelberg were all killed. Defence lawyer Paul McMurray told a B.C. Supreme Court judge hearing the case in Kelowna on Monday that hes expecting Brittain to plead guilty to all four indictments in court on Oct. 14. Brittain was a former city employee whom Penticton Mayor John Vassilaki described after the shooting as a gentleman who did his job well. Police said shortly after the shooting that the victims were in their 60s and 70s and a motive hadnt been determined. RCMP said the shootings were targeted and the victims knew one another. All four victims were neighbours of Brittains ex-wife. The first shooting occurred on Heales Avenue, then the suspect drove about five kilometres to a second location on Cornwall Drive where the other three people were attacked, police said. The unarmed suspect walked into the RCMP detachment in Penticton about an hour after the shootings were first reported and surrendered, they said. Crown and defence lawyers had gathered Monday in court for what was originally scheduled as the first day of a four-week trial and became a pre-trial conference instead. Justice Alison Beames asked McMurray if his client planned to plead guilty to all four counts. I can confirm that my instructions are that Mr. Brittain is intending to enter guilty pleas on the indictment, McMurray said. A two-day sentencing hearing has been scheduled for Brittain. He did not appear in court Monday but is scheduled to appear Oct. 14. First-degree murder carries with it a mandatory sentence of life in prison with no chance of parole for 25 years. Crown counsel Colin Forsyth declined outside court Monday to say if hell seek to have the sentences run consecutively. with files from Joe Fries at the Penticton Herald. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. Read more about: OTTAWA - A five-year-old Canadian girl stuck inside Syria after her family was killed in an airstrike is on her way to Canada. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Minister of Foreign Affairs Francois-Philippe Champagne speaks to media before the start of the Liberal cabinet retreat at the Fairmont Hotel in Winnipeg, Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Mike Sudoma OTTAWA - A five-year-old Canadian girl stuck inside Syria after her family was killed in an airstrike is on her way to Canada. Her family in Toronto says they were told Sunday that the child, known as Amira, was now in the care of a Canadian consular official.Amira was found on the side of a road last year and was taken to a refugee camp in a region of Syria controlled by Kurdish-led forces. Led by the girl's uncle, the family has been trying to get her to Canada since. "We are delighted by this news and would like to express our gratitude to everyone who has made this possible," they said in a statement Monday. "We would kindly request privacy as my niece transitions into her new life in Canada. Her family's lawyer hailed her imminent arrival as giving hope to dozens of Canadians who remain trapped in Syria. But Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suggested Monday that Amira's case was an exception, not precedent. She was an orphan who lost her parents and had family in Canada, Trudeau said. It took months of planning and co-ordination to get her out, he said. "We don't have a plan to do that for others," he said in French at an unrelated news conference Monday, declining to explain why. Countries around the world have long struggled with what do with their citizens suspected as Amira's parents were of being aligned with Islamic State militants. The debate has been polarizing, with opponents of repatriation arguing that bringing them home effectively amounts to bringing back terrorists who are a threat to national security. Human rights groups, on the other hand, have argued the security and health risks posed in the camps including the potential that children will be radicalized there is the greater threat, and countries could prosecute alleged terrorists using domestic laws. As many as 10,000 foreign nationals are believed to be held in camps in Syria, including Al-Hawl where Amira was taken. Over the weekend, the Syrian Democratic Council, which overseas the region, said it would soon free all Syrian nationals from the camps and no longer assume responsibility for the foreigners who remain. The council said it should haven't to pay to feed or house them, or be concerned about the safety risks they face. Farid Deif, Canada director for Human Rights Watch, said Monday that raises concerns about the fate of 46 other Canadians, including 25 children, who remain in the camp. "If Canadians and other foreigners are abandoned in Syria, they may experience even greater hardship and uncertainty," Deif said in an email. "Anyone who poses a security threat could also escape and regroup." The Kurdish-led government has repeatedly called on countries to repatriate their nationals or provide the regime with funds to investigate and prosecute suspects locally. Many countries have responded by bringing their citizens home, either using a case-by-case approach to prioritize children or those who need medical care, or directly working with Syrian forces to bring home known fighters to face prosecution. Foreign Affairs Minister Francois-Phillipe Champagne said the Canadian government will inquire about the well-being of Canadians "from time to time," but otherwise there's been no change to the overarching government approach to the issue. "Our first and foremost concern is to ensure the safety and security of Canadians here at home," he said. NDP public safety critic Jack Harris said Canada must respect its obligations to its citizens abroad. "If there are those who can be prosecuted, they should be but they are entitled to be treated fairly," he said. "You can't just assume they've gone to fight as a terrorist and they are going to come back to do the same thing." Stay informed The latest updates on the novel coronavirus and COVID-19 delivered to your inbox every weeknight. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Amira's family had filed a lawsuit against the government in July, saying it was violating her rights by refusing to issue her travel documents and engage with authorities to bring her back. The Liberal government had said that a lack of Canadian consular services in Syria, as well as the security situation, made helping her very difficult. Champagne would not divulge details of how, precisely, Amira got out of the region but did thank the Canadian military for its work. He would not say what role they played, nor would a spokesman for the Forces. Ottawa lawyer Lawrence Greenspon, who represented Amira's family, said it is clear the barriers the government had previously thrown up could be overcome. He said the families of others in Syria will be asking tough questions of the government, and if necessary may return to the Canadian justice system to press the issue."They are saying, 'You got Amira out, clearly you were able to do that in a secure fashion,'" he said. "'So why not my son or why not my daughter?'"This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. India's largest IT services firm Tata Consultancy Services will consider a share buyback proposal during its board meeting scheduled this week. "The board of directors will consider a proposal for buyback of equity shares of the company, at its meeting to be held on October 7, 2020," TCS said in a regulatory filing on Sunday night. The company has not revealed any more details regarding the share buyback plan. The tech giant is also likely consider the second quarterly financial results and may announce the second interim dividend to its equity shareholders. Before this, TCS had undertaken a share buyback plan worth Rs 16,000 crore comprising 7.61 equity shares in 2018. In a separate filing on Sunday, TCS said it would be providing Rs 1,218 crore as an exceptional item in the second quarterly results with regard to the EPIC Systems Corporation matter. In October 2014, EPIC had filed a legal claim against TCS in the court of Western District Madison, Wisconsin, the US, alleging infringement of Epic's proprietary information. "On August 20, 2020, the US Court of Appeals, 7th Circuit, Chicago, returned a verdict on the appeal filed by TCS, reducing the damages award. The Court held that the punitive damages award of $280 million is constitutionally excessive, vacated the punitive damages award and directed the Trial Court to reassess the punitive damages. The Court upheld the compensatory damages award of $140 million," TCS has said. TCS said it has the correct and the strongest possible arguments in its favour and the order and reduced damages are not supported by facts presented during the trial. "In September 2020, TCS has filed a petition seeking re-hearing on both compensatory and punitive damages," it added. EPIC has also filed a petition seeking re-hearing on a decision of the Appeals Court invalidating award of punitive damages exceeding the amount of compensatory damages, the company said. "The provision in the books for legal claim is being made as a matter of prudence," the company said. The matter relates to a US grand jury order that slapped two Tata group companies - TCS and Tata America International Corp - with a $940 million fine in a trade secret lawsuit filed against them by EPIC in April 2016. On October 1, 2017, TCS said the court significantly reduced the compensatory and punitive damages of $940 million to $420 million. In May this year, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) warned TCS to be careful in dealing with disclosure of material information to investors after the watchdog found that the IT major did not prominently display the extent of damages related to a case in the US. The regulator also asked TCS to ensure that it provides adequate, accurate, explicit and timely information to its investors. Also read: TCS share hits all-time high as board to consider buyback of shares With PTI inputs Using a novel technique, scientists working at the Florida State University-headquartered National High Magnetic Field Laboratory have found evidence for a quantum spin liquid, a state of matter that is promising as a building block for the quantum computers of tomorrow. Researchers discovered the exciting behavior while studying the so-called electron spins in the compound ruthenium trichloride. Their findings, published today in the journal Nature Physics , show that electron spins interact across the material, effectively lowering the overall energy. This type of behavior -- consistent with a quantum spin liquid -- was detected in ruthenium trichloride at high temperatures and in high magnetic fields. Spin liquids, first theorized in 1973, remain something of a mystery. Despite some materials showing promising signs for this state of matter, it is extremely challenging to definitively confirm its existence. However, there is great interest in them because scientists believe they could be used for the design of smarter materials in a variety of applications, such as quantum computing. This study provides strong support that ruthenium trichloride is a spin liquid, said physicist Kim Modic, a former graduate student who worked at the MagLab's pulsed field facility and is now an assistant professor at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria. "I think this paper provides a fresh perspective on ruthenium trichloride and demonstrates a new way to look for signatures of spin liquids," said Modic, the paper's lead author. For decades, physicists have extensively studied the charge of an electron, which carries electricity, paving the way for advances in electronics, energy and other areas. But electrons also have a property called spin. Scientists want to also leverage the spin aspect of electrons for technology, but the universal behavior of spins is not yet fully understood. In simple terms, electrons can be thought of as spinning on an axis, like a top, oriented in some direction. In magnetic materials, these spins align with one another, either in the same or opposite directions. Called magnetic ordering, this behavior can be induced or suppressed by temperature or magnetic field. Once the magnetic order is suppressed, more exotic states of matter could emerge, such as quantum spin liquids. In the search for a spin liquid, the research team homed in on ruthenium trichloride. Its honeycomb-like structure, featuring a spin at each site, is like a magnetic version of graphene -- another hot topic in condensed matter physics. "Ruthenium is much heavier than carbon, which results in strong interactions among the spins," said MagLab physicist Arkady Shekhter, a co-author on the paper. The team expected those interactions would enhance magnetic frustration in the material. That's a kind of "three's company" scenario in which two spins pair up, leaving the third in a magnetic limbo, which thwarts magnetic ordering. That frustration, the team hypothesized, could lead to a spin liquid state. Their data ended up confirming their suspicions. "It seems like, at low temperatures and under an applied magnetic field, ruthenium trichloride shows signs of the behavior that we're looking for," Modic said. "The spins don't simply orient themselves depending on the alignment of neighboring spins, but rather are dynamic -- like swirling water molecules -- while maintaining some correlation between them." The findings were enabled by a new technique that the team developed called resonant torsion magnetometry, which precisely measures the behavior of electron spins in high magnetic fields and could lead to many other new insights about magnetic materials, Modic said. "We don't really have the workhorse techniques or the analytical machinery for studying the excitations of electron spins, like we do for charge systems," Modic said. "The methods that do exist typically require large sample sizes, which may not be available. Our technique is highly sensitive and works on tiny, delicate samples. This could be a game-changer for this area of research." Modic developed the technique as a postdoctoral researcher and then worked with MagLab physicists Shekhter and Ross McDonald, another co-author on the paper, to measure ruthenium trichloride in high magnetic fields. Their technique involved mounting ruthenium trichloride samples onto a cantilever the size of a strand of hair. They repurposed a quartz tuning fork -- similar to that in a quartz crystal watch -- to vibrate the cantilever in a magnetic field. Instead of using it to tell time precisely, they measured the frequency of vibration to study the interaction between the spins in ruthenium trichloride and the applied magnetic field. They performed their measurements in two powerful magnets at the National MagLab. "The beauty of our approach is that it's a relatively simple setup, which allowed us to carry out our measurements in both a 35-tesla resistive magnet and a 65-tesla pulsed field magnet," Modic said. The next step in the research will be to study this system in the MagLab's world-record 100-tesla pulsed magnet. "That high of a magnetic field should allow us to directly observe the suppression of the spin liquid state, which will help us learn even more about this compound's inner workings," Shekhter said. ### In addition to Modic, Shekhter and McDonald, the other scientists contributing to this paper were: J. P. C. Ruff of Stanford University; Maja D. Bachmann of the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids and Stanford University; You Lai of Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Florida State University (FSU) and Cornell University; Johanna C. Palmstrom of Stanford; David Graf of the National MagLab; Mun Chan, F. F. Balakirev and J. B. Betts of LANL; Greg Boebinger of FSU and the National MagLab; Marcus Schmidt and Dmitry Sokolov of the Max Planck Institute; Michael J. Lawler and Brad Ramshaw of Cornell; and Philip J. W. Moll of the Max Planck Institute and the Ecole Polytechnique Federal de Lausanne. This research took place at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, the world's largest and highest-powered magnet facility. Located at Florida State University, the University of Florida and Los Alamos National Laboratory, the interdisciplinary National MagLab hosts scientists from around the world to perform basic research in high magnetic fields, advancing our understanding of materials, energy and life. The lab is funded by the National Science Foundation (DMR-1644779) and the State of Florida. The Institute of Science and Technology Austria is an international research institute in Vienna dedicated to cutting-edge research in natural and formal science. Chef left unemployed by economic crisis found hanged PHUKET: A chef left out of work and with no income due to the economic crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic was found hanged at his home in Srisoonthorn yesterday afternoon (Oct 4). suicidedeathCOVID-19economicsCoronaviruspolice By Eakkapop Thongtub Monday 5 October 2020, 11:59AM Chef Saman Prasarika, 45, left out of work by the COVID-19 crisis, was found hanged at his home in Srisoonthorn yesterday afternoon (Oct 4). Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Maj Wuttichai Kaewthong of the Thalang Police was called to the scene, a row house in Moo 4, at about 3:30pm. Police together with Srisoonthorn Municipality rescue workers and an ambulance from Thalang Hospital to find the body of Saman Prasarika, 45, on the floor of the bedroom. Attempts to revive Mr Saman failed, Maj Wuttichai said. Mr Samans wife, Wilaiwan Patchim, 34, told police that late yesterday morning Mr Saman called her while she was working at a coffee shop and told her that he was going to hang himself. Ms Wilaiwan said she rushed home and found Saman hanged by a piece of cloth tied to the door knob on the bedroom door. She ran out and asked neighbors for help to have her husbands body moved to the floor. Wilaiwan explained that Mr Saman used to work as a chef at a well-known restaurant, but he became unemployed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unable to find work for months, Mr Saman became depressed, she said, leading him to take his own life, Maj Wuttichai explained. Although no signs of a struggle were found on Mr Samans body or in the house, Mr Samans body was taken to Thalang hospital for further examination and will later be released to his family in order to hold his funeral, Maj Wuttichai added. SECOND SUICIDE Later yesterday, police were called to a house on Sri Sena Rd in Phuket Town, where a man had fatally shot himself in the head after he was unable to resolve a dispute with his female partner of seven years. Capt Wichit Nokkaew of Phuket City Police was called to the home at about 6:30pm. Police together with Kusoldharm rescue workers arrived to find the body of Kittichai Musiksong, 47, on a sofa in the living room. Mr Kittichai had suffered a gunshot wound to the head. A loaded .38 handgun was on the floor, Capt Wichit noted in his report. Mr Kittichais sister, Ms Sasipha, 48, told police that Mr Kittichai had called her on Friday night and told her that if he died to please hold his funeral in Phattalung and to pay his car loan installments. Ms Sasipha explained that she knew her brother and his partner, Wanpen Ruamkham, 47, had been arguing and that she had already tried to get them back together. Ms Wanpen told police that she and Mr Kittichai had been together for seven years, but on Sept 24 she found out that he had a mistress, Capt Wichit said in his report. She moved out to stay at a house in Tambon Talad Nuea, in Phuket Town, he added. On Saturday night (Oct 3), at around 10pm, Mr Kittichai came to the house in Talad Nuea. The two talked in front of the house, with Mr Kittichai urging Ms Wanpen to forgive him, but she refused, Ms Wanpen told police. Ms Wanpen said that Mr Kittichai then dragged her into her house and pointed a gun at her head. He pulled the trigger repeatedly, but the gun did not fire. He then pointed the gun at his own head and pulled the trigger, and the gun still failed to fire, she said. A neighbor came in and separated them, after which Mr Kittichai left on his motorbike. Ms Wanpen then reported the incident at Wichit Police Station, Capt Wichit explained in his report. Police have yet to conclude their investigation and Mr Kittichais body was taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further examination, Capt Wichit also noted in his report. By Nerijus Adomaitis and Terje Solsvik OSLO (Reuters) - Six Norwegian offshore oil and gas fields were shut on Monday as more workers joined a strike over pay, companies and union officials said. The strike will cut Norway's total output capacity by just over 330,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, or about 8% of total production, according to the Norwegian Oil and Gas Association (NOG). The dispute began on Sept. 30 when a group of 43 workers organised by the Lederne union went on strike after wage talks failed between the union and the NOG, which represents oil and gas companies. Monday's escalation added 126 union members to the strike, taking the total to 169 out of the 1,003 offshore workers Lederne represents. Norway regularly pumps just over 4 million barrels of oil equivalent per day, half in the form of crude and other liquids and half from natural gas, making it a major global energy supplier. An Equinor spokesman said the company had closed four of its fields, while Neptune said in a statement its Gjoea field and Wintershall Dea's [WINT.UL] Vega were also shut. Wintershall Dea, which operates the Vega field via the Gjoea field's platform, was not immediately available for comment. Output from Johan Sverdrup, the North Sea's largest producing oilfield, was unaffected by the strike, Equinor said. "There is no solution in sight," said a spokesman for the NOG. "Employers are still showing no willingness to meet our demands, thus triggering the escalation," Lederne trade union chief Audun Ingvartsen said in a statement. The shutdowns helped to boost global oil prices on Monday, with Brent rising 5.35% at 1829 GMT. [O/R] They also helped firm British wholesale gas prices, with Norwegian pipeline system operator Gassco reporting that strike action was curbing available volumes by 35.6 million cubic metres today and on Tuesday. The strike hit Equinor's Gudrun, Gina Krog and Kvitebjoern fields, as well as Kvitebjoern's satellite Valemon field. Story continues Close to 60% of the total cuts were natural gas, with crude oil and natural gas liquids making up the rest, a Reuters calculation based on official Norwegian output data showed. In July, the combined crude oil output from the six fields that were shut on Monday stood at 79,000 barrels per day, while natural gas production amounted to 194,000 boepd, according to Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (NPD) data. Natural gas liquids from the six fields amounted to about 62,000 barrels per day, the data showed. Kvitebjoern, Valemon, Gjoea and Vega all pump oil into the Troll Oil terminal, making them part of the global Brent crude benchmark, with the four fields contributing close to 31,000 barrels per day in July, according to the NPD data. Before the strike, the Troll crude oil blend had been scheduled to run at around 155,000 barrels per day in October, according to trade sources. "The outage from the strike would need to last around three weeks in order for the impact to accumulate to 600,000 barrels - the size of a loading cargo," Energy Aspects analyst Christopher Haines said. "Id be surprised if the strike lasts that long," he said. Lederne said it was seeking better financial terms for members and wanted the offshore wage agreement to also cover workers at onshore remote control rooms. Equinor and other oil companies have been looking into ways to remotely control production at offshore fields, to cut costs. The NOG said Lederne's demand fell outside the scope of the offshore wage agreement. (Additional reporting by Nora Buli in Oslo and Shadia Nasralla in London, Editing by Clarence Fernandez, Jane Merriman and Peter Graff) Black men are more than twice as likely to be shot and killed by police than white men; this inequity is more pronounced for certain populations Berkeley -- The widely reported deaths of Michael Brown and Philando Castile reflect a grim truth in this country: According to data collected by The Washington Post, around 1,000 people are shot and killed by the police in the U.S. each year, and Black men are more than twice as likely to be victims as white men. These inequities become even more stark for older and mentally ill, unarmed Black men, finds a new analysis which appeared online last month in the journal Annals of Epidemiology. While young men still bear the brunt of police killings, the study found that police are five times more likely to shoot and kill unarmed Black men over age 54 than unarmed white men the same age. Police are also more likely to shoot and kill unarmed Black men who exhibit signs of mental illness, compared to white men with similar behaviors. "The media have exposed the fact that there may be a disproportionate killing of unarmed men, Black men, in particular, and this is now considered not just a public health issue, but a public health crisis," said study lead author Marilyn Thomas, who completed the analysis as a doctoral student at UC Berkeley's School of Public Health. "Our analysis has found that, among those who happen to be killed by police, there are clear subpopulations that seem to be more vulnerable." The study, which focused on how race and armed status affects the risk of being shot by police, also revealed geographic differences, with racial inequities in the killing of unarmed Black and white men being more pronounced in the South, the study found. "Right now, there is a lot of national attention being given to excessive use of force by police, which, unfortunately, we have seen result in the killing primarily of unarmed Black and brown people in this country," said Amani Allen, executive associate dean of the UC Berkeley School of Public Health and senior author of the study. "Our results are particularly timely because they add actual scientific evidence to the deaths we are seeing in the media, which to some may seem like one-off events." Lack of accurate data has long stymied efforts to understand who is most at risk of being killed by police action in the U.S. Statistics reported by the federal government, such as the FBI's annual list of "justifiable homicides by law enforcement," are notoriously inaccurate: A 2015 study found that the FBI's count missed more than half of the people killed by law enforcement each year. After the high-profile deaths of Eric Garner, Michael Brown and Tamir Rice in 2014, the Guardian and the Post both launched projects to track the numbers and demographics of people who are shot and killed by police. These databases, combined with numbers from the Fatal Encounters project, which has been tracking fatalities at the hands of police since 2000, have finally given health and social scientists the data needed to understand how race and other factors contribute to police killings. "Because of these databases, now we have reliable data where we can do more nuanced examinations of whether inequities exist," Thomas said. "And based on these more reliable data sets, we now know that, compared to white civilians, Black civilians are more likely to be stopped, they're more likely to be arrested and they're more likely to experience police use of force and deadly force." The intersections of age and mental illness To conduct the analysis, Thomas used data on nearly 3,000 law enforcement-related fatalities of Black and white men collected by the Post's Fatal Force project between 2015 and 2019. Of those, 212 men were reported as unarmed when they were shot. Because Thomas only had data on men who were killed by police -- not on those armed or unarmed men who were patrolled by police, but not ultimately shot and killed -- she lacked what researchers call a "control group," a group used as a benchmark to validate the study findings. As a result, she used a form of statistical analysis called case-only design, which eliminates the need for controls. Thomas found that, overall, there was no racial difference in the risk of being unarmed when killed by police, when other contributing factors were accounted for. However, she did find significant inequities when she broke the data down by age, signs of mental illness and region. The finding that older Black men face such a dramatically higher risk of being killed while unarmed, compared to white men of the same age, was surprising to Thomas, given that much of the media attention surrounding the police killing of Black males focuses on younger Black men and even Black children, like Tamir Rice. "In the older population, Black males are five times more likely to be unarmed when killed by police than white males. That's an incredible inequity," Thomas said. "Police use of force is sanctioned against those civilians who are perceived as a threat. There's a disproportionate sense of threat here, and so we have to think about what could be driving that." Denise Herd, professor of community health sciences at UC Berkeley's School of Public Health, who was not involved in the study, points out that older Black males may be suffering from chronic physical or mental illnesses, including dementia, that may make them more vulnerable to police violence. They may also be experiencing homelessness or have lost some of the familial or social ties that protect younger men. "The people who are most vulnerable to police violence are the people who are falling through the cracks in our public health system," Herd said. "This is an age group where people have had cumulative disadvantages." Mental illness, unlike age, is its own risk factor for police violence. The Fatal Force project found that approximately one in four people shot and killed by police were experiencing a mental or emotional crisis at the time of the shooting. However, the finding that Black men exhibiting signs of mental illness are also at higher risk of police killing than white men, particularly while unarmed, is indicative of a concerning pattern in policing: While white men with mental illness are more likely to be given treatment, Black men with similar behaviors are more likely to be criminalized for their actions. "Black people are much more likely to have psychiatric disorders, whereas white people are more likely to get mental health treatment and intervention," Thomas said. "What that leads to, and what we see in our criminal system right now, is an overrepresentation of people with severe mental illness, because they are being taken to jail or being assaulted or injured and ending up in the hospital rather than getting the mental health intervention that they need." The fact that police are killing certain groups of unarmed Black men at disproportionate rates, compared to unarmed white men, raises questions about police training programs and the unconscious biases that drive police behavior, the researchers said. "We have to really look at what's happening within these policing organizations and interrogate the policies, the practices, the trainings and the culture in police departments that are leading to these results," Allen said. The tip of the iceberg The results, paired with the limitations of the case-only design approach, highlight the need for more research into the disproportionate impacts of police killing -- and, more importantly, more reliable data, Thomas said. "The fact that we had to use data from publicly available media sources is problematic; it shouldn't be that way," Thomas said. "We should have a national registry where these data are available for analyses, so that we can intervene in this public health crisis, like it is a crisis." The hundreds of Black people who are shot and killed by police each year only represent a sliver of the public health crisis that results from disproportionate police violence on this community, Herd added. For example, the collective grief, stress and social fragmentation that result from this kind of violence can lead to long-term mental distress and even physical illness and death. In April, public health experts at UC Berkeley argued that the stress of police violence may be contributing to the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on the Black population. In addition, police violence also causes many more serious injuries than deaths, and research has found that, between 2001 to 2014, emergency departments in hospitals treated 683,000 people for injuries caused by police. "I think police violence has a tremendous effect that is still not fully recognized," Herd said "Police killings are just the tip of the iceberg." ### This study was co-authored by Nicolas P. Jewell, UC Berkeley professor of biostatistics and statistics. It was supported by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) through grant UL1GM118985, by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities through grant P60MD006902, and by a Ford Foundation Predoctoral Fellowship administered by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. A young Vietnamese man has tested positive for COVID-19 after departing for Japan from Hanoi last month, according to the municipal Center for Disease Control. Nguyen Van D., 23, left the Vietnamese capital on board flight NH898 on September 30, Khong Minh Tuan, deputy director of the center, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Monday. A quick test at Narita International Airport in Tokyo then showed that D. was positive for the novel coronavirus, Tuan added. His center is still waiting for the results of other tests on the man using the real-time PCR technique, he said. Vietnamese health workers have already started monitoring nine of D.s family members, taking samples from them, and fumigating their neighborhood. D. had had no contact with infected patients and never been to virus-stricken regions before leaving for Japan. Vietnam has recorded zero domestic COVID-19 cases since September 3. D. is the 11th case that has had a positive quick test result after leaving Hanoi for Japan, South Korea, and France since August, according to the Hanoi Center for Disease Control. The previous ten people later retested negative for the virus with the real-time PCR method, which is now used widely to confirm a COVID-19 infection. As of Monday afternoon, Vietnam has documented 1,096 coronavirus cases, with 1,020 recoveries and 35 virus-related fatalities, the Ministry of Health said. A new wave of infections battered the country on July 25, when touristy Da Nang logged the first community transmission after 99 days of zero domestic cases nationwide. A total of 551 local cases were then recorded across Vietnam in the following weeks, the majority linked to Da Nang. The nation spent over a month tracing contacts and managing to suppress the outbreak afterward. Vietnam has resumed commercial flights to certain destinations, including Thailand, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and mainland China. Entrants from these places are now required to present certificates proving they tested negative for the novel coronavirus within three days of their boarding flights. Vietnam currently charges international arrivals for quarantine. It provided the quarantine service for free in the past. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! KAMPALA A total of 30 senior officers of the Uganda Prisons Service have been affected in min reshuffle. The Commissioner General of Prisons, Dr Johnson Byabashaija, announced the changes in a October 5 notice, also shared social media. In the Service Orders Part II number 10/2020, Dr Byabashaija appointed, sent on leave and transferred different officers. Dr Byabashaija said the orders take immediate effect and instructed the Director Administration to facilitate execution of these orders without delay. According to the notice, Mr. Moses Sentalo, ACP, Officer in Charge, Uganda Prison Upper is appointed Service Assistant Public Relations Officer. He also remains Officer in Charge, of the facility. Mr. Joel Kiggundu, SSP, who proceeded on leave vide Service Order Part II No.6/2020 of 26th June 2020 has been recalled from leave. He remains DPC Luwero. Full statement ANOUNCEMENT!!!!!! Prisons Headquarters P.O. Box 7182 KAMPALA 05 October 2020 No. 10/2020 SERVICE ORDERS PART II APPOINTMENTS, TRANSFERS, AND LEAVE OF OFFICERS 1. Mr. Moses Sentalo, ACP, Officer in Charge, U.G. Prison Upper is appointed Service Assistant Public Relations Officer. He remains Officer in Charge, U. G. Prison Upper. 2. Mr. Joel Kiggundu, SSP, who proceeded on leave vide Service Order Part II No.6/2020 of 26th June 2020, the leave is cancelled. He remains DPC Luwero. 3. Mr. Festo Sambya, SSP, who was appointed DPC Luwero vide Service Order Part II No.6/2020 of 26th June 2020, is transferred to Masindi as DPC. 4. Ms. Maureen Ninsiima, SSP, Officer in Charge, U.G. Prison Mbale (M) is appointed Service Assistant Public Relations Officer. She remains Officer in Charge, U.G. Prison Mbale (M). 5. Mr. Jimmy Anguzu, SP, Officer in Charge, U.G. Prison Farm Isimba is transferred to U.G. Prison Soroti as Officer in Charge. He takes over from Mr. Latif Mayamba, SP, who is transferred to U.G. Prison Moroto as Officer in Charge. Mr. Mayamba takes over from Mr. Norman Aruho, SP, who is suspended from duty with immediate effect. 6. Mr. Sam Bagonza, SP, Officer in Charge, U.G. Prison Dokolo, is transferred to U.G. Prison Farm Ragem as Officer in Charge. He takes over from Mr. Emmanuel Nuwagaba, SP, who is transferred to U.G. Prison Farm Isimba as Officer in Charge. 7. Mr. Robert Oguttu, SP, Officer in charge, U.G. Prison Kakumiro, is transferred to U.G. Prison Dokolo as Officer in Charge. He hands over the Station to Mr. Grace Adrawa, ASP, U.G. Prison Mbale Main, who is now appointed Officer in Charge, U.G. Prison Kakumiro. 8. Mr. Peter John Enyetu, ASP, on leave is appointed Staff Officer, North Eastern Region at Moroto. 9. Ms. Allen Malemo, ASP, U.G. Prison Farm Ruimi, is appointed Officer in Charge, U.G. Prison Kibiito. She takes over from Mr. Robert Okanya, ASP, who proceeds on accumulated leave. 10. Ms. Phoebe Nyaburu, ASP, U.G. Prison Farm Kitalya, is transferred to Prisons Headquarters, to the Procurement and Disposal Unit for duty. 11. Mr. Maximillian Byamugisha, ASP, on leave is transferred to U.G. Prison Moroto as Deputy Officer in Charge. 12. Mr. Francis Byaruhanga, ASP, U.G. Prison Farm Ragem, proceeds on 90 days leave with immediate effect. 13. Mr. Joseph Nangai, P.O.I, on leave is transferred to U.G. Prison Mutuufu as Deputy Officer in Charge. 14. Mr. Godffrey Masereka, P.O.II, U.G. Prison Masafu, is appointed Officer in Charge, U.G. Prison Bukwo. He takes over from Mr. Francis Okuku, P.O.II, who is transferred to U.G. Prison Mbale (M) in for duty. 15. Ms. Doreen Bafumba, P.O.II, on leave, is transferred to U.G. Prison Kasangati for duty. These Orders take immediate effect. Mr. Grace Adrawa, ASP, should start the exercise of taking over and handing over without delay. The Director Administration should facilitate the movement of officers. Can. Dr. J.O.R. Byabashaija COMMISSIONER GENERAL OF PRISONS Related Continue Reading Former Marriott executive expected to advance growth in Canada Ryan McRae Ryan McRae, Sr. VP of Business Development for Hotel Equities Ryan McRae, Sr. VP of Business Development for Hotel Equities ATLANTA, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, hotel ownership, management and development firm, Hotel Equities (HE), announced Ryan McRae has joined the company as Senior Vice President of Business Development. McRae most recently served as Area Vice President of Lodging Development with Marriott International. Based in Vancouver, in his new role McRae will focus on continuing to grow Hotel Equities Canadian portfolio of full service, select service and extended stay hotels. Prior to joining Marriott in 2014, McRae was Vice President, Acquisitions and Development for SilverBirch Hotels & Resorts, where he was responsible for hotel development and acquisition activities across Canada. He also served as chairman of the company's investment committee. Prior to his role with SilverBirch, McRae was a Development Director with Hilton Worldwide where he focused on corporate growth both in Canadian and global markets. Hotel Equities has seen a flight to quality as hotel owners continue operating through COVID and seek experienced and reputable third-party operators to care for their assets. McRaes addition to the Hotel Equities team and his location in market will make the firm more accessible to those owners, as well as serve as a valuable resource for HEs current clients in the area. Ryans impressive background in hotel development and his experience with both Marriott and Hilton hotels make him the ideal candidate to lead our growth strategy in Canada, said HEs Chief Development Officer, Joe Reardon. I have had the pleasure of working with Ryan for several years as weve brought new development projects to completion and Ive witnessed first-hand his capacity for building relationships with a desire to generate strong returns for our owners. Were proud to now welcome him to the Hotel Equities family. Story continues The firms portfolio of 166 hotels includes 26 in Canada, positioning Hotel Equities as the largest non-owner third-party hotel management group in Canada. HE's Canadian regional office located in Edmonton, AB supports its portfolio of hotels in market and includes all disciplines- operations, sales and marketing, revenue management, accounting and human resources. After working with the Hotel Equities team for many years as a member of Marriott, when the opportunity became available to join them it seemed like the natural transition, said McRae. Ive always been impressed with their teams mission and values, theyre very much aligned with the Marriott culture. I look forward to adding value and working alongside the great team at HE. McRae holds a Master of Business Administration degree from INSEAD and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from The University of British Columbia. About Hotel Equities Hotel Equities is an Atlanta-based full-scale hotel ownership, management and development firm with a portfolio of 160+ hotels and projects throughout the United States and Canada. Frederick W. Cerrone, CHA, serves as Founder and Chairman; Brad Rahinsky serves as President and CEO. For more information, visit www.hotelequities.com . Attachment CONTACT: Sommer Shiver VP of Branding & Communications sshiver@hotelequities.com WATERLOO REGION Home sales in the region hit a record high for the month of September, with an increase of 41.6 per cent over the same month last year. According to the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of Realtors there were 758 residential homes sold in September through the local Multiple Listing System (MLS). This is up eight per cent over August. The 10-year average number of residential sales for the month of September is 460. The pandemic caused a delayed start to spring market this year and the pent-up demand is driving these sales, says Mike Milovick, broker with Royal LePage Grand Valley Realty. It was an absolute record-breaking month, he said. It may be a combination of a shortage of homes mixed in with lower cost to borrow. The average sale price of all residential properties sold in September increased 17.5 per cent to $637,691 compared to the same month last year. Detached homes sold for an average price of $768,762, an increase of 25 per cent. These numbers follow an extremely hot summer housing market with the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of Realtors reporting 734 homes changing hands in July and 686 in August both record-breaking months. The average number of days to sell in September was 14 days, compared to 23 days in the same month last year. Colleen Koehler, President of Kitchener Waterloo Association of Realtors, said she believes this trend will continue throughout the rest of the year, with the market playing catch-up after the non-existent spring season. If anything, what COVID has done is really heighten the importance and value of home, she said. People want to stay in their homes for longer so theyre building home office spaces or gyms, or creating space for extended family to move in. With more people able to work remotely, Waterloo Region is seeing an influx of buyers coming from the Greater Toronto Area and from other provinces like Alberta, Koehler said. If people only have to drive in to work once or twice a week, theyre choosing to live somewhere a little further from the office at a much more affordable price, she said. Even though 929 new listings were added to the local Multiple Listing System in September, an increase of 13 per cent over last year, Koehler said demand for housing is still outpacing supply. A report from Statistics Canada released Monday shows home prices rising across the country, especially near large urban centres. Prices in Waterloo Region rose 3.2 per cent between February and August this year, compared to a rise of 1.9 per cent over the same period last year. Prices in Guelph also shot up over this period, increasing 2.9 per cent this year over 0.8 per cent last year. The Statistics Canada report predicts a slowdown in demand for housing moving into the fall, especially with a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. But house prices are expected to continue to rise, largely due to the increased demand for larger living spaces in order to work from home and take part in home schooling. The higher cost of building materials like lumber and the historically low mortgage rates will also play a role in the rise of house prices. The Hathras case has led to a nationwide outrage on social media, and many have been calling out the police investigation and have claimed there is a political angle to the gangrape case. However, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and MLA Surendra Singh's misogynist comments on the case has upset many netizens including Bollywood celebrities like Kriti Sanon, Farah Khan Ali, Vir Das, Onir and others. BJP MLA from Uttar Pradesh Surendra Singh on Saturday said that the parents of young women must inculcate good values in them to stop incidents of rape. ANI quoted him as saying, "Such incidents can be stopped only with sanskar [culture and values] and not with shashan [governance] or talwar [sword]. The government's job is to protect the people but it is also the responsibility of parents to teach children polite behaviour and manners." He added, "Our country can become beautiful with the combination of sanskar and sarkar [government]." The comments shocked many as the backward and narrow minded statement came from someone at a higher post in the government of India. Among several, actress Kriti Sanon was furious and strongly reacted saying this kind of mindset has to change. While Farah Khan wrote, "To Stop rape we need to change the mentality of men like him." Take a look at all the tweets from B-town celebs opposing the misogynist comments, Teach daughters how to not get raped??? Can he hear himself talk? THIS is the MINDSET that needs to change! Its so messed up! Why cant they give some sanskaar to their sons??? https://t.co/JXj9Tx6YOe Kriti Sanon (@kritisanon) October 3, 2020 How very kind of this gentleman to point this out. But what should a family do with the Sons? https://t.co/85sqZraHc9 Shruti Seth (@SethShruti) October 4, 2020 Speechless .., and people elect these morons .., and a party actually gives them tickets . With MLAs like those Hope is a distant dream https://t.co/RO56q8C2pv Onir (@IamOnir) October 4, 2020 I agree. Family is important. Parents...raise your sons not to think like this creep. https://t.co/mrREJ6ciAA Vir Das (@thevirdas) October 4, 2020 To Stop rape we need to change the mentality of men like him who blame a woman for rape. We write A woman was raped instead of saying the man raped a woman.The stigma is always on a woman when it should be on the rapist.Teach this man to respect the womb that bore him first. https://t.co/OoOo50YimY Farah Khan (@FarahKhanAli) October 3, 2020 Meanwhile, Adityanath-led UP government is facing immense criticism over its handling of the Hathras gangrape case. According to reports, four upper-caste Thakur men allegedly gang-raped and tortured the 19-year-old woman on September 14, who died at a hospital in New Delhi on September 29. She was then hastily cremated on Wednesday midnight by the police, without allowing her family to perform the last rites. Sayani Gupta Takes A Jibe At SRK's Gandhi Jayanti Post; Urges Him To Speak Up For The Truth Alia Bhatt & Sidharth Malhotra React To The Hathras Case Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane visited Myanmar on Monday (October 5) amid the COVID-19 pandemic to discuss bilateral relations a wide range of areas. The Indian officials met Myanmars state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi to carry forward the discussion. As a gesture of friendship, India handed over a consignment of 3,000 vials of the drug Remdesivir to Suu Kyi to help Myanmar fight the Covid-19 pandemic. India Myanmar As part of India's contribution to help a friendly neighbour Myanmar fight against COVID-19, Foreign Secretary @harshvshringla & COAS handed over 3000 vials of #Remdesivir to State Counsellor H.E. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi @MOFAMyanmar @ambsaurabhkumar@MyanmarSC pic.twitter.com/KyLS9mx9Hz India in Myanmar (@IndiainMyanmar) October 5, 2020 The foreign secretary and the army chief began two-day visit to Myanmar on Sunday, the first time an Indian delegation to the neighbouring country has included both officials. Their meetings with Myanmars top civil and military leadership are meant to take forward ties in areas ranging from security to connectivity. Live TV Notably, this is the first visit of Army Chief outside the country amid the COVID pandemic and India China tensions at the Line of Actual Control. Shringla and Naravane discussed important bilateral issues during their meeting with Suu Kyi at the foreign ministry in Naypyitaw, the Indian embassy said in a tweet. The safe return of Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh to Myanmar is also expected to figure during the visit. Dhaka has been pressing New Delhi to use its good relations with Naypyitaw to push forward the process, the people said. On the security front, Myanmar recently handed over of 22 Indian insurgents which was "deeply appreciated by the Government of India and sends a strong message of deterrence to inimical elements on both sides", FS said at the meet. Prior to the visit, Indian Embassy in Myanmar said, ''India - Myanmar relations are historic, multifaceted and marked by mutual trust and respect. India attaches high priority to its relationship with Myanmar in accordance with its Neighborhood First and Act East policies. In the recent times, both sides have strengthened their cooperation in several areas, including connectivity and trade, development projects, energy, capacity building, defence and security and culture and people to people links.'' Advertisement A history lover splashed out on a ruined 19th century fort - and plans to transform it into a tourist attraction. Guy Anderson, 52, has built up an impressive property portfolio after he previously moved into an old gun tower and turned it into his home. The businessman also snapped up a medieval tower just five years ago as another grand designs fixer-upper. A developer has purchased the Hubberston Fort, in Pembrokeshire, to restore into a tourist attraction that promotes the region's 'rich history'. Guy Anderson says he hopes to make it public and a potential venue for theatre or fashion shows Hubberston Fort, in Wales, was built in 1860 and was named as one of Britain's most endangered archaeological sites in 2011 Guy Anderson says the first step in its restoration is to 'work out what's there' before basic information panels are added Guy Anderson, a history fanatic who was a project manager for the Olympics, has a track record with historical sites having converted an old gun tower into his home and just five years ago he also acquired a medieval tower which he fixed up as well But Guy is now set for a new challenge after he bought a the grade-II listed fort to open as a 'living ruin' for the public. The plan is to open the doors of Hubberston Fort in Pembroke Dock, West Wales, as a place to explore while also hosting theatre nights. Guy said: 'It's working out what's there. First it's cleaning it out, then installing some information panels and getting some basic exhibitions in there. It's a blank canvas. 'The barracks will need a huge amount of involvement and it would be nice in the future to put some smaller infrastructure in there so we could hold theatre or cinema nights. 'I intend to put a stage in there, but I envisage it as a facility that people like the Torch Theatre could use. 'On a beautiful summer day, it could be a place to hold a fashion show.' The fort was built in 1860 and was named as one of Britain's most endangered archaeological sites in 2011. It acted as the last layer of defence before enemies reached the Royal Naval dockyard and cost 55,000 to build. In World War I it housed up to 250 soldiers in its barracks and was used again in World War II as an army camp for American servicemen. Barracks were used during both world wars, first to house 250 soldiers and then in World War 2 as a camp for US soldiers The fort, which is currently closed to the public, is located on the Pembrokeshire coast overlooking Gelliswick beach in Wales The structure later fell into disrepair after a string of failed projects to transform it. Guy said: 'I plan to turn it into a living ruin. 'We have such a phenomenal history here, the forts we have in Pembrokeshire should rival any that you find in places like Portsmouth. 'It needs a good clean and tidy to make it safe and then to open it up to the public. It can be somewhere you can walk to, have a look around and have a picnic.' It comes 20 years after Guy, a Pembroke Dock Town Councillor, transformed the South West Gun Tower in Pembrokeshire into his home. And just five years ago he bought the medieval Paterchurch Tower in the town to renovate. Guy, who has worked as a project manager for the Olympics, says there will be no charge for visitors to the port but a donation box will be on site. There have been various bids to restore the fort in the past but all have been unsuccessful or not viable for its previous owners Prior to Guy purchasing the site, the fort was managed by the Milford Haven Port Authority who had tried to make it safe Having previously been the site for non-fatal injuries to trespassers, the port authority says it has worked to make it secure He said: 'It seems a shame to have it locked behind closed doors when it's part of the local history. 'I want it to be accessible for everyone.' Clare Stowell is director of property and tourism at the Port of Milford Haven - the authority that sold the fort. She said: 'The fort has been in the Port's ownership for many years, forming a special part of the area's rich history, and we have worked tirelessly to secure it in order to protect members of the public from coming to any harm. 'Over the years we have considered a range of options for Hubberston Fort, but none of these have been commercially viable. 'Guy Anderson is hoping to partially open the fort to the public in the next couple of years as a managed ruin.' She added: 'Guy's passion and experience in historic buildings means we are confident that Hubberston Fort will be safeguarded for the future.' Jerry Helling, President of Bernhardt Design, and Michael Plank, CEO of Plank, are pleased to announce the formation of Bernhardt Design + Plank in North America. Bernhardt Design + Plank is a long-term partnership between two design-focused, family-owned companiesone in America, the other in Italy, each with an aesthetic and heritage all its own. They share common values in the most important areas: the pursuit of quality, a deep appreciation for the value of design, and a commitment to innovation. Both brands have adapted to an ever-changing market through partnerships with the best designers of this era. Helling states, I have been searching for an appropriate European partner for a number of years and was unable find the perfect product fit and personal chemistry. We have admired Plank for many years and when I heard Michael might be open to a new relationship, I was sitting in his office the next week. In my view, this is the perfect partnership as we have the same company culture and a complementary approach to product. Plank adds, For an Italian design brand to still have a family dimension and a passion for hands-on committed product research and development, it was crucial to find a business partner for North America with a corresponding approach. When I was introduced to Bernhardt Design, I had an immediate feeling of synergy and the impression of a principled, professional, strong and quality organization. Bernhardt Design + Plank is the exclusive distributor for Planks award-winning products in North America. An extensive Fast Track program offers two-week shipment on a wide array of seating and tables. In addition to products for interior spaces, the product offering features a broad collection of outdoor furniture. The brand will launch in North America in September 2020. ABOUT PLANK Plank is an Italian furniture manufacturer with a passion for the art of industrial production. Consistently innovating since 1953, Plank created a range of timeless and iconic products through the collaboration with leading designers such as Konstantin Grcic and Naoto Fukasawa. Plank chairs, lounge seating, table systems, and stools can be found in contract, residential and public spaces around the world. Plank products have won numerous prizes and awards, such as the XXII Compasso dOro for the MYTO chair and the iF Product Design Award, Gold, for the MIURA stool and are part of the collections of major museums including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, the Design Museum in Munich and the Art Institute of Chicago. ABOUT BERNHARDT DESIGN Bernhardt Design was founded in 1980 by the 130-year-old Bernhardt Furniture Company and continues to be a leader and innovator in furniture design and production. During the past 20 years, President Jerry Helling has assembled an extraordinary creative team that has positioned Bernhardt Design as one of the leading international design companies with a roster of talent that includes: Ross Lovegrove (London), Arik Levy (Paris), Jaime Hayon (Valencia), Luca Nichetto (Venice), Yves Behar (San Francisco), Patrick Jouin (Paris), Fabien Baron (New York), Monica Forster (Stockholm), CuldeSac (Valencia), Mario Bellini (Milan), Noe Duchaufour-Lawrance (Lisbon), Raleigh Denim (Raleigh), Farg & Blanche (Stockholm), Charles Pollock (New York), Claudia and Harry Washington (San Salvador), Anabela Chan (London), Oceane Delain (Paris), Joe Gebbia (San Francisco), Tift Merritt (Raleigh), and Terry Crews (Los Angeles). Setting a precedent for leadership within the corporate community, Bernhardt Design founded and annually sponsors an interdisciplinary course with the world-renowned Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, challenging students to create world-class designs for mass production. The company also sponsors the ICFF Studio, a scholarship program that provides emerging design talent exposure to manufacturers, retailers, and media from around the world. American Design Honors, an annual award to recognize the most noteworthy American designers, was established by Bernhardt Design in 2010. Internationally, Bernhardt Design supports young designers through their sponsorship of the annual Contempo program conceived to advance the design profession in El Salvador, and America Made Me, a program to promote new brands and young American design talent abroad. Subscriber content preview JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) Two Alaska legislative leaders have called on the state's governor to stop assisting the development of a proposed copper and gold mine. House Speaker Bryce Edgmon, an independent, and Republican Rep. Louise Stutes wrote to Republican Gov. Mike Dunleavy Tuesday about the Pebble Mine project. . . . Last week, a producer in one of my classes was distracted beyond belief fidgeting with his mobile device, sending emails, and texting. As happens to most of us when were nervous, his leg was shaking like a tree in the middle of a Texas thunderstorm. I tried to get his attention twice, to no avail. So, this time, I screamed, Bob, what the hell is going on over there? He looked up with a sordid frown on his face and said, Someone hacked my bank account. Oh man, Im sorry. How much did they get? About $600 so far, which to him was more than beer change. But, I think I have it under control, Bob reaffirmed himself. That is a breach. Someone broke in, took Bobs money, and left. But its nothing compared to the data breach most agency owners suffer every year. When someone doesnt observe a law, agreement, or code of conduct, its a breach. By definition, when a producer doesnt enter prospects into your pipeline system, that is a data breach. Youre probably laughing and thinking, Randy, thats not a data breach. Thats just producers being producers. Right, and when a Russian hacker bores a hole through your firewall and steals your money, youll say, thats not a breach, thats just Russian hackers being Russian hackers. So why is this the most expensive data breach youll probably ever have? In economic terms, its pretty simple. When you dont have valuable data from your producers pipeline, you have to listen to B.S. litany: How hard they work. All the great things theyre working on. All the calls theyre making. How they will absolutely make their numbers. The problem is, you have no way to validate, verify, or substantiate any of it until it is too late. Its not until they miss their quarterly goal, then their annual goals, then their decade goals, and ultimately their career goals, that its too late. You categorize this in your mind as not necessary, just a nice to have. But when you dig deeper, this costs you not just thousands of dollars every year, it costs you millions over your business lifetime. The irony is you pay $50,000 to $100,000 a year to make sure someone is managing your accounts receivable and accounts payable along with updating your P&L. Nice job! Youve done a great job of recording and reviewing the past. We know, only a fool would argue against doing that. But you flunked the test of managing your future because of the most horrific data breach possible. You made it okay for your producers to tell you, Kiss it, Im not putting my data there. You say, Not a problem, but your sales meetings are becoming even more lifeless. And your administrative assistant scowls every Friday when you say, Need that pipeline report for Mondays meeting. Because she knows its code words for Track down every producer and ask them to update the spreadsheet. The problem with the spreadsheet is simple its naked. Most agencies update their spreadsheets with: Name of the business; (Maybe) a buyers name; Potential revenue (probably premium); One line of poorly written notes; No information about the incumbent; No information about the risk. Theres nothing you can sink your teeth into, and it drives you mad. You get to the sales meeting on Monday morning and review the list with the team. Charlie, lets go through your stuff. Youre working on the Texas Roadhouse restaurant. Hows it going with them? Charlie has a vivid response, Pretty good. You ask him, What do you think of your chances of closing this? Charlie states, Probably better than 50/50. You confirm, Do you have carriers lined up? Charlie verifies, Yes, sir. You ask him, Need any help? Charlie ends with, No, I think were good, sir. Then you repeat the same motions with the next producer. Would the meeting be more useful if you had data to strategize how to win the deal together? Would it be more beneficial if your producers captured your competitors proposals and put them in your system? That way, you could then quickly review them and see just how great, or sorry, the competition stacks up. Would the sales meetings be more effective if instead of the kiss it attitude, your producers shared information on their competitors agents to figure out how they can stand out? Would it be more advantageous if they knew whom the incumbent was so that you could help your producer win by broker of record instead of quoting on the account? Would you feel more in control of your producers if their goals and accounts sold were in your data system, so you could instantly review their progress with these goals? Im sure you think this is foolish and that its overkill. But Im 100% certain that Bill Belichick, Nick Saban, and Mike Krzyzewski couldnt run their organization without player data. Im 100% confident that Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Jordan Speith wouldnt be caught dead without their humidity, wind direction, and stimpmeter reading data. By definition, data is facts and statistics collected together. Its the antithesis of B.S. Topics Cyber Bad weather: various dead in Italy and France European Union expresses solidarity (ANSAmed) - TURIN / PARIS, 05 OTT - At least five people were reported dead in the Italian region of Liguria and at least four in France, with several others missing, as a wave of bad weather caused flooding over the weekend that devastated northwestern Italy and southeastern France. Another two people died on Saturday, including a 36-year-old whose car was swept away by the Sesia river in the province of Vercelli, Piedmont, and a firefighter in Arnad, near Aosta, who was killed by a fallen tree. A man is still missing in the Lombardy province of Pavia. The five bodies found on Sunday in the Liguria province of Imperia, between Sanremo and Ventimiglia, include four that washed ashore and another one that was found in the Roya river. The victims still need to be identified and could be people who were reported missing in southern France. On Sunday the body of a man who drowned in his car was found in Saint-Martin-Vesubie, in southeastern France that was pummeled by bad weather on Friday night. French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that mid-week he will travel to the department of Alpes-Maritimes, the region of Nice, that was devastated by bad weather. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed the full solidarity of the Union towards Italy and France and the willingness to provide ''further assistance at this difficult time''. (ANSAmed). New Delhi: People are fast losing faith in the sacrosanct image of media, which, of late, witnessed a decline. The rat race for TRP and fake news have further added to its trust deficit among common people. The DNA analysis will look into the different aspects of the news industry to unravel the root cause amid the two recent developments of the Hathras incident in Uttar Pradesh and Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput's alleged suicide case. In the both these cases, the effort should have been to let the truth come out through media reports, but in the name of TRP, and concoction of fake news a competition ensued to grab the maximum attention of people, and in an effort to provide justice to victims, the news organisations started toeing their own lines floating different theories to serve their interests. It was earlier stated that the pen is mightier than the sword, but this power has gradually declined. Now, the dramatic element has made a silent entry into journalism. News is simply reduced to just grab TRP and the fake news has further weakened the fourth pillar of democracy. Along with this fourth pillar, other pillars too are witnessing a decline. In the cases of Sushant Singh Rajput and the death of an 18-year-old girl in Hathras, the demand of these families to get justice for the victims should have been the basis of reports, but the developments in media are just going in opposite directions. In the case of Sushant Singh Rajput, the FIR registered in Patna nowhere mentioned murder and even Sushant's family did not say this but a section of media is determined to prove it a case of murder. In the other Hathras case, however, no medical report confirmed rape, but a section of media here also wants to prove it a case of gang-rape at any cost. The fact is that the statement of the girl about rape came later and the police then amended the FIR, but the investigation is yet to prove it. By ignoring facts, this business of lies is on an expansion spree to grab maximum TRP. The virus of untruth is spreading very fast and people remain a mute spectator. This change is deadly and is likely to hit the future of our nation. We will talk about it, but first, you should know the latest updates in the Hathras incident. The Uttar Pradesh Police has registered several FIRs in this case, citing a deep conspiracy to trigger caste-based violence in the state. The FIR has also named a section of media, an unknown leader for spreading rumours on social media along with some politicians for allegedly luring the family to give Rs 50 lakh. According to the FIR, some people are repeatedly talking about rape in the media and social media while rape has neither been confirmed in the forensic investigation nor in the medical report. The Uttar Pradesh government has recommended a CBI inquiry into the matter, but the victim's family, surprisingly, does not want it. They, rather, demanded that the investigation should be conducted under the Supreme Court's supervision. Although a section of media and political parties are striving hard to give the Hathras incident their own colour, Zee News has tried to unravel the truth completely on the basis of facts and evidence. The investigation says that there was an old acquaintance between the victim and the main accused, Sandeep Singh, and perhaps there was a conversation between them. This has been proved through the call data records, comprising approximately 5 hours from October 2019 to March 2020, but the victim's elder brother flatly refused to have ever talked to the key accused. The question arises if the brother did not talk then who would have talked to the accused. In our further investigation, some Boolgarhi village residents hinted towards a possible love affair between the accused and the victim. The family members of other accused talked about the innocence of their kin and denied the alleged gang-rape of the victim. Accused Ramu is stated to have been working at a dairy plant. The owner of the dairy plant testified this fact before the camera, adding that Ramu was there from 8 am to 12. From the statements of the village and the documents we showed you, some questions arise: 1. Why did the family not say about the rape on September 14? 2. Why did the remaining 3 accused not named on the first day? 3. Why did the family mention the gang-rape after eight days? 4. Why was the talk of cutting the victim's tongue spread while she is seen talking? 5. Why did the family not agree with the CBI investigation and the Narco test? To answer these questions, Zee News once again spoke to the family of the victim. In this controversial case, the Hathras police is also a third party. It had tried to suppress the case and cremated the victim's body in the dark of night allegedly without seeking the family's permission. They further committed mistakes and prevented media and leaders from meeting the victim's family. The victim's family was not allowed even to leave their house. The big question still looms large if the victim was raped? The Forensic Report of the Medical College of Aligarh Muslim University and Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi have not proved it. Rather, the report said that the victim was assaulted. In the Sushant Singh Rajput case also, the truth is still awaited. A medical board of doctors in AIIMS was formed to investigate the causes of the actor's death. Some news channels claimed that Sushant Singh Rajput committed suicide while others stated that the actor has been killed. The AIIMS Medical Board, however, has given its clarification sating that it has submitted it report to the CBI, which also issued a statement that it is still probing the matter from every angle. The AIIMS and CBI had to issue a clarification in this matter because the two organizations were sandwiched in the TRP battle of news channels. The officials are scared to talk to journalists even informally as they fear their talks can be recorded without their permission. The formal information on the AIIMS report is yet to be released in the media, but the battle is being fought in the media on the basis of so-called sources as no one is ready to wait for the truth to come out. Donald Trumps illness has put the spotlight on his vice president, Mike Pence, a month before the election. Mr Pence will take a leading role in campaigning around the country in the final stretch before the November 3 election, aiming to keep the presidents supporters energised and deflecting criticism of his handling of a virus that has killed over 205,000 Americans. The presidents positive diagnosis on Friday has intensified scrutiny of the administrations cavalier approach to the pandemic. The spotlight on Mr Pence will be especially bright on Wednesday when he will participate in the vice presidential debate with California Senator Kamala Harris. Mr Pence will almost certainly be pressed to explain shifting accounts of the presidents health over the weekend and justify Mr Trumps decision to hold large in-person campaign rallies during a pandemic, events that often flouted public health guidelines by congregating thousands of mostly mask-less supporters. Normally, the vice presidential debate is inconsequential. That is not the case in 2020, said Alex Conant, a Republican strategist who worked on Florida Senator Marco Rubios 2016 presidential bid. The public has so many questions about how we got here and its an opportunity for Pence to answer some of those. Mr Pence has often been called upon to smooth over fallout from Mr Trumps messy decision making and divisive policies. Expand Close Judge Amy Coney Barrett, left, President Donald Trumps nominee for the US Supreme Court, is escorted to the Senate by Vice President Mike Pence (J. Scott Applewhite/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Judge Amy Coney Barrett, left, President Donald Trumps nominee for the US Supreme Court, is escorted to the Senate by Vice President Mike Pence (J. Scott Applewhite/AP) Since the 2016 campaign, he has served as a bridge of sorts between a brash, thrice-married former reality television star who long bragged about womanising and the more traditional branch of the Republican Party, particularly conservative evangelicals. The smooth diction and humble demeanour Mr Pence brings to the role was honed in the 1990s when he was a conservative talk-radio host in Indiana, when he referred to himself as Rush Limbaugh on decaf. His approach has not always been successful. As Indianas governor from 2013 to 2017, he was so relentlessly on-message that he sometimes struggled to contain fallout from fast-moving crises. WH Task Force met today. Working around the clock to expand Testing, PPE, Therapeutics & expect to have a Vaccine by end of 2020. Grateful for the prayers for President @realDonaldTrump, @FLOTUS & EVERY American family dealing with COVID-19. We Will Get Through This Together! Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) October 3, 2020 That includes his handling of backlash over a 2015 law he signed that allowed business owners to deny service to gay people for religious reasons, which was later amended as a result of the uproar. The debate with Ms Harris, Joe Bidens running mate, will be a major test. The former California prosecutors political rise was fuelled by searing exchanges with political rivals during major congressional hearings. And she is certain to press the issue of the virus and Mr Trumps diagnoses when the two meet in Salt Lake City. Expand Close Kamala Harris will face Mike Pence in the vice-presidential debate (John Locher/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Kamala Harris will face Mike Pence in the vice-presidential debate (John Locher/AP) One major uncertainty is what sort of condition Mr Trump will be in during the weeks ahead. His administration has offered rosy assessments of his health and said he could be released from Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre as early as Monday. But Mr Trumps blood oxygen level abruptly dropped twice in recent days and he was given supplemental oxygen before he was taken to hospital. His doctors continued to evade basic questions about his health on Sunday. After the debate, Mr Pence says, it is back to business as usual and the campaign has appearances planned for him, as well as Mr Trumps children and other top surrogates in an effort billed as Operation Maga (Make America Great Again). Mr Pence is scheduled to visit Arizona and Florida and will return to Indiana on Friday to vote early. Weve got a campaign to run, Mr Pence said on Saturday on a call with staff. I promise you, this president, as soon as his doctors say so, hes going to be back out there. President @realDonaldTrump doing very well at @WRBethesda and @FLOTUS doing great convalescing at home. Grateful to God and the incredible medical team caring for our friends. Keep those prayers coming America! Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) October 3, 2020 Mr Pence often evokes faith when describing his approach to public office, citing the biblical concept of servant leadership. He has been a faithful servant to Mr Trump since he was plucked from a difficult bid for reelection as governor to join the presidential ticket in 2016. Syrias President Bashar Al-Assad, on the fifth anniversary of Moscows intervention in Syria, stressed the importance of the role played by Russian military bases in ensuring 'security and stability' in the country. In an interview with Russias Ministry of Defence TV channel Zvezda, Assad said that Russias naval and air bases were important to counter the Wests military presence in the region. Assad said that the global military balance needs Russias role. He added that Syria needed such a presence that his military commanders say countered Washingtons dominance in the region. He said that Syria is facing global terrorism and Russia is helping the country to achieve security and stability. The Syrian President went on to even point out that there is an imbalance of powers in the current system of international relations and Moscow must restore the lost balance. READ: Armenian PM: Syrian Mercenaries, Turkish Army In War Assad noted that the Russian military presence not only plays an important role in Syria but also worldwide. He said that after the elimination of terrorism, Russia will play another role at the international level, which consists of urging the international community and different states to implement international law. Assad indicated that Russia can play a pivotal role in ensuring security and making world order more just and balanced. READ: OPCW Probes Couldn't Prove Chemical Use In 2 Syria Attacks Syria-Russia relations Russia controls the Tartus naval facility in Syria, which is the only naval foothold in the Mediterranean. It also controls the Hmeimim base, from where it launches airstrikes in support of Assad. Back in 2015, Russia had launched airstrikes in Syria and two years later it started to cement its permanent military presence. The Syrian authorities have also agreed to give Moscow additional land and coastal waters in order to expand its military airbase at Hmeimim. The Syrian President said that before Russias military intervention, the country had been facing dangerous situation with armed opposition directly funded and equipped by the US and other Western powers, along with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, who had seized main cities and towns. Moscow helped Assad with massive aerial power in a bid to regain most of the territory that the country lost in a decade long conflict. READ: US Announces Fresh Sanctions Against Syrian Organisations, Individuals To Pressurise Assad READ: Aid Group Warns That 700,000 Children In Syria Risk Hunger Copyright 2020 Albuquerque Journal T-minus 24 hours and counting until the start of voting in New Mexico for the 2020 election. A presidential election expected to be unlike any other, partly because its taking place during a pandemic, gets started Tuesday in New Mexico. Thats when county clerks across the state will begin mailing absentee ballots to voters who have requested them, said Alex Curtas, a spokesman for the New Mexico Secretary of States Office. Hundreds of thousands of registered voters are expected to vote by mail so they dont have to go the polls and vote in person. Only 76,476 state voters cast absentee ballots in the 2016 general election. As of late last week, 295,511 voters had requested such ballots, according to data from the Secretary of States Office. Of those voters, 185,994 are Democrats and 61,208 are Republicans. In Bernalillo County, 135,026 voters have requested ballots, including 83,865 Democrats and 28,410 Republicans. Voters have until 5 p.m. Oct. 20 to request an absentee ballot. Requests can be made on the secretary of states website or at county clerks offices. Curtas said that the completed ballots must be mailed by Oct. 27. If they forget to mail it back by the 27th, voters can drop the absentee ballot off at any polling location in your county, he said. Voters who want to vote in person can also start on Tuesday at the offices of county clerks throughout the state. For people still needing to register to vote, the deadline to do so online is Tuesday. Registrations by mail must be postmarked by Tuesday. People can register in person to vote at county clerks offices until Oct. 31. Traditional early voting, which is done at different polling sites, starts Oct. 17 and ends Oct. 31. Election Day is Nov. 3. In addition to the presidential race, there is one race for U.S. Senate. All three U.S. House seats are up for election, as are all 112 legislative seats and two seats on the Public Regulation Commission. Several local races are on ballots across the state. The Albuquerque Journals 2020 election guide, which includes biographies and questionnaires completed by the candidates, is available on the Journals website at ABQJournal.com/election2020. TWIN FALLS A man was flown to a Salt Lake City hospital Sunday after a shooting in western Twin Falls. Police are asking for the publics help identifying someone who may be involved. Twin Falls Police said the shooting happened at 1:36 p.m. in the 200 block of Heyburn Avenue West. They released photos of a man late Sunday and asked for anyone with information or who can identify the man in the photo to call 208-735-4357. Officers from the Twin Falls Police Department and the Twin Falls County Sheriffs Office spent part of Sunday afternoon after the shooting at the Creekside Mobile Home Park, northwest of the Addison Avenue-Washington Street intersection and about two blocks south of the shooting. This is the second shooting in Twin Falls city limits in four days. A man was shot early Thursday when someone shot through the window of his Lincoln Street home, Twin Falls Police said. Police said at the time that the shooting did not appear to be random and they did not believe the public was in danger. No arrests in the case have been announced as of Sunday. Photos: Magic Valleys Most Wanted Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 About 95% of traditional chiefs in the country have endorsed President Akufo-Addos re-election bid, Communication Director at the Jubilee House Eugene Arhin has disclosed. The development according to him did not come as a surprise as the chiefs in question have shown appreciation for the development they have received in their districts. He adds, however, that these endorsements cant be described as the traditional leaders engaging in open partisan politics. Mr Arhins comment comes on the back of criticisms by some Ghanaians over what they describe as chiefs breaking the law that bars them from engaging in active politics. One of these individuals is Prof Agyemang Duah who believes the constitutional provision that bans chiefs from active politics is not enforceable. According to him, the law failed to consider the cultural disposition of traditional leaders as political leaders of their subjects. Meanwhile, speaking to Regina Borle Borteyon the Campaign Trail Mr Arhin maintained by and large, it did not come as a surprise to the president because literally almost everywhere weve been so far, in all the regions weve toured so far, every single place weve been to, by and large, I can say about 95, 96% of the chiefs who speak at these durbars expressed satisfaction as to the kind of work the president has done for them in their respective districts. As a result of that, urged their subjects to vote for the president in the coming elections. He went on so the declaration by the Okyehene did not come by as a surprise because the Okyehene himself outlined some of the things the president has done over the last three and a half years, not only in Okyeman but across the country. And for him, this he believes is a good enough basis for the Ghanaian people to repose their confidence in the president once again. For me, it did not come as a surprise and I dont think it comes as a surprise to Ghanaians at all because this has been the pattern since this working visit began. Commenting on criticism over endorsement of political parties and politicians by traditional chiefs, Mr Arhin noted is there a provision that says chiefs cant endorse? Theres a difference between endorsement and theres a difference between somebody urging somebody on. At the end of the day, the chiefs have seen what the president has done for them in their respective districts. You can only admonish somebody to go and do something but at the end of the day when the person goes to vote, its a secret ballot. Nobody knows what the person is going to do. He added if in the opinion of the chief he believes that as per the amount of work the president has done over the last three and a half years he believes the president should continue, I don think you can describe that as engaging in open partisan politics. --starrfm WASHINGTON The story of Navajo Generating Station in rural Arizona, in a way, is a story about the United States: the extraordinary coal-fueled expansion of the country after World War II, the continued extraction of natural resources from Native American lands and then the rapid move in recent years away from coal to natural gas and renewable energy. The way many of the now-unemployed coal miners in Arizona see it, it is also a story of a Republican president who made a promise and then failed to honor it. Documents obtained by The New York Times and a number of environmental groups offer a detailed history of this immense public works project, from its birth in the early 1960s through the fight over its fate during the Trump administration, including the repeated interventions by coal industry lobbyists as they tried to keep the plant in business. Lets take a look at a few of the key documents. Flood the Sistine Chapel N.G.S., as the plant is known, was born of a compromise that helped give rise to the modern environmental movement in the United States. The Sierra Club, which more recently played a role in forcing the shutdown of the power plant, was also largely responsible for the fact that the Navajo Generating Station was built in the first place. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg understood, more than anyone else, the enormous consequences of her death. My most fervent wish, she said, in a statement dictated to her granddaughter before she died, is that I will not be replaced until a new president is installed. But barely hours after her death was announced, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he would quickly move forward with a vote to fill Ginsburgs seat with Presidents Trump nominee, brazenly contradicting his own rule against installing Supreme Court justices in presidential election years. It was unseemly, to say the least, that our collective mourning of Ginsburgs extraordinary life and influential legacy was almost immediately eclipsed by the political implications of her death. But thats what Supreme Court confirmations have become: another venue for the countrys poisonous partisanship. Why have recent appointments of Supreme Court justices so frequently set off an intensely partisan, nasty, and destructive national fight? Part of the answer lies in the lifetime tenure of the nine Supreme Court justices. When justices serve so long, the stakes of each appointment are too high. And when justices can time their retirements, the politicization of the court grows too acute; see all the calls for an aging Ginsburg to retire during Barack Obamas presidency to guarantee the appointment of a left-leaning replacement. One sensible way to lower the temperature on appointments, and preserve the legitimacy of the court, is to establish term limits for justices. The idea of term limits for Supreme Court justices is not new or radical. Its supported in both conservative and progressive quarters. The most talked-about plan involves staggered, regular appointments to 18-year terms. Each president would get two appointments per elected term, one every other year. Term limits would not only depoliticize the highest court. They also would put it more in touch with the crosscurrents of American life. Term limits for Supreme Court justices are popular, too. Fix the Court, an advocacy organization that promotes reform in the federal courts, released a poll two years ago that showed a majority of Americans in favor of restrictions on length of service for SCOTUS. Yet another poll, conducted by Marquette Law School last year, showed that 72% of those polled supported term limits for Supreme Court justices. The question of how to end lifetime tenure and set term limits is unsettled. Some legal scholars say the change must be enacted via a constitutional amendment, while others say Congress can do it through legislation as long as certain conditions are met. Regardless of the vehicle, ending lifetime tenure for Supreme Court justices is an idea whose time has come. The chaos to come over Trumps pick for the court makes it abundantly clear that Americans deserve a better system that lowers the stakes. It would be a fitting tribute to Ginsburgs legacy if her passing became a catalyst for reform of the Supreme Court. Excerpted from The Boston Globe. Editors note: Editorials shared from other newspapers are offered in an effort to disseminate additional opinion and information, and do not necessarily represent the views of The Daily Progress. Information links: https://www.politico.com/news/2020/09/18/ginsburg-rbg-dying-wish-418108 https://morningconsult.com/2018/07/18/majority-of-voters-back-term-limits-for-supreme-court-justices/ https://www.scotusblog.com/2019/10/recent-polls-show-confidence-in-supreme-court-with-caveats/ The President of Turkey has called on Syria and Russia to respect the terms of the agreements regarding Idleb reports Anadolu Agency. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday that his country will go to clean up terrorist hideouts in Syria if the promises made to them are not fulfilled. According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan said, we have eliminated the terrorist corridor established along our borders and have proven that our Syrian brothers are not alone. Our effective presence will continue on the ground until stability is achieved on our southern borders (with Syria), the Turkish president said. He pointed out that, Turkey will not accept any step that would cause a new humanitarian tragedy in Idleb. We will continue to disturb all parties that are hostile to our country and our people, Erdogan stressed. The parties that remain silent about terrorist organizations and the countries that support them put all moral, legal and human rights principles aside when it comes to Turkey, he said. The Turkish president announced earlier that Turkey is still committed to the memorandum of understanding it concluded with Russia regarding Idleb. He added, If the regime continues to violate the armistice and the other conditions of the agreement, it will pay with very heavy losses, and we will not tolerate the dark organizations that carry out provocative actions in order to thwart the ceasefire in Idleb. One day after Erdogans remarks, the National Army, deployed in northwestern Syria, sent military reinforcements to the southern countryside of Idleb, in anticipation of any military operation by Assads forces, with Russian support. On Sunday, the Hamza division, which is part of the National Army, published photos of fighters and military equipment that it said were heading to Jabal al-Zawiya, south of Idleb. The general military commander of the Hamza division, Abdullah Halawa, said that the reinforcements came on the orders from the commanders of the corps in the National Army to raise the military readiness. This article was 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. Contributions are now being accepted for the Ontario Harness Horse Association (OHHA) Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP). Any Standardbred racing industry participant can join the plan. In order to qualify for the industry contribution to their retirement account, owners, trainers, and drivers must have participated in 12 races in Ontario in 2019. Owners and breeders will be credited based on the percentage of the horse(s) they owned or bred. Breeders must be the owner of a mare or mares whose offspring that were bred by them collectively raced 12 times in 2019 in Ontario. Assistant trainers and grooms must provide a T4, or letter from their employer verifying employment in 2019. The RRSP initiative is funded through the pari-mutuel tax reduction (PMTR) funds. A portion of the horsepeoples share of revenue has been allocated to fund the RRSP since its inception. The PMTR is calculated as a percentage of the total wager on horse racing in the Province of Ontario. Currently the horsepeoples share of the PMTR funds is .40% of the total wager in Ontario. That .40% is split 60% to the Thoroughbred industry and 40% to the Standardbred industry. Of the share of revenue that is allocated to Standardbred, 60% is allocated to the RRSP. Unfortunately, wagering has been in decline in Ontario for a number of years. There was a decrease in wagering on horse racing in Ontario in each of the last four years, and therefore there is declining revenue to fund the RRSP. In 2017, the total wager in Ontario was $882,098,637 and in 2019/20 the total wager in Ontario had declined to $784,209,470. The domestic bet; the wagers placed on horse racing in Ontario, is now close to $100 million a year less than it was just four years ago. Prior to 2010, Ontario wagering on horse racing was in excess of $1 billion per year. While the impacts of COVID-19 on the Ontario wagering on horse racing are still unclear, all indications are that the total wager in Ontario will decline again this year. The amount generated by the PMTR funds is ultimately divided by the number of participants that qualify for the industry contribution. The RRSP committee will meet to review the amount available for distribution and calculate the industry contribution once the number of eligible applicants is determined. The deadline for contributions is December 1, 2020 but we urge you to get your information in soon to assist the office with managing the workload. Further information and forms are available on the OHHA website or by calling the OHHA office at 905-854-6442 or 1-866-774-6442. (OHHA) The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday agreed to hear an appeal by energy companies including BP PLC, Chevron Corp., Exxon Mobil Corp. and Royal Dutch Shell PLC contesting a lawsuit by the city of Baltimore seeking damages for the impact of global climate change. The justices will weigh whether the lawsuit must be heard in state court as the city would prefer or in federal court, which corporate defendants generally view as a more favorable venue. The suit targets 21 U.S. and foreign energy companies that extract, produce, distribute or sell fossil fuels. The outcome could affect around a dozen similar lawsuits by U.S. states, cities and counties including Rhode Island and New York City seeking to hold such companies liable for the impact of climate change. U.S. Court Says State Courts Are Proper Forum for Climate Suits Against Big Oil Baltimore and the other jurisdictions are seeking damages under state law for the harms they said they have sustained due to climate change, which they attribute in part to the companies role in producing fossil fuels that produce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. The plaintiffs have said they have had to spend more on infrastructure such as flood control measures to combat sea-level rise caused by a warming climate. Climate change has been melting land-based ice sheets and glaciers. The Supreme Court in 2019 declined the companies emergency request to put the Baltimore litigation on hold after a federal judge ruled that the case should be heard in state court. In March, the Richmond, Virginia-based 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the judges decision. In the absence of federal legislation in the bitterly divided U.S. Congress targeting climate change, the lawsuits are the latest effort to force action via litigation. The Supreme Court in a landmark 2007 ruling said that carbon dioxide is a pollutant that could be regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency. Under Democratic President Barack Obama, the agency issued the first-ever regulations aimed at curbing greenhouse gases. But efforts in Congress to enact sweeping climate change legislation have failed. The court took action in the case three days before it begins its new nine-month term short one justice after the Sept. 18 death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. President Donald Trump has nominated federal appeals court judge Amy Coney Barrett to replace Ginsburg. (Reporting by Lawrence Hurley; Editing by Will Dunham) Topics Lawsuits Legislation USA Climate Change Pollution Former liquor baron Vijay Mallyas son Siddharth Mallya, appearing in the Netflix docuseries Bad Boy Billionaires has said that his father is a political pawn as they (the government) need a man to make an example of. Mallya has spoken for the first time since the bank fraud worth 9,000 crore involving his father came to light. The controversial docuseries was released on Monday morning with three episodes on Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi and Sahara India chief Subrata Roy after a month-long legal battle. However, the fourth episode on the founder of Saytam Computer Services founder B Ramalinga Raju has not been released by the over-the-top (OTT) platform as a Hyderabad court had ordered a stay on its release. Netflixs plea challenging the Hyderabad courts decision is still pending. Mallya said in the docuseries They are saying he didnt pay his employees, he looted the banks, he fled from the authorities, he money laundered, he siphoned fundsits political and they need a scapegoat. They need a political pawn; they need a man to make an example of. Also Read: Netflix releases controversial series Bad Boy Billionaires, sans episode on Ramalinga Raju Mallya, who is an actor, added that his father was an easy target because of his lifestyle. Everyone wants scandal, everyone wants a bit of spice, everyone wants a bit of controversy. You know, he was in a sexy business, making alcohol. Its not like he was, you know, making steel somewhere or something, its a lifestyle brand. Therefore, its much easier to target him, said Mallya. He added that his father revolutionised air travel in India and genuinely tried to save the airline. On his fathers lavish parties, Mallya said, He (Vijay Mallya) was one of the first people in India who wasnt afraid of spending his money. He was unapologetic (about it), Mallya added. Vijay Mallya had fled to London in March 2016 and is facing extradition to India. Indian agencies have already won the case in the UK courts but Mallya is learnt to have applied for asylum, which is pending with British authorities. Canadian Indian filmmaker Dylan Mohan Gray, who has directed the opening episode on Vijay Mallya, told Hindustan Times, I am very happy that the series has finally been released. These films are very important in many waysboth in terms of showing the legal aspect and the fact that Indians will see powerful figures whose stories can be told without them having control over it. I think its a very important landmark for freedom of expression in India and all kind of filmmaking in India. Gray said the film on Vijay Mallya has been made using accounts of people who have had some connection with his life. There was no preconceived agenda in the film and we have been able to produce an authoritative account on Mallyas life. I think people will appreciate the film. Netflix officially refused to comment on the release of film. Bad Boy Billionaires was set to be released originally on September 2 but it hit a legal hurdle with Mehul Choksi, whose name appears in the series; Roy and Raju approached courts seeking stay on the docuseries saying it would affect their trial. A lower court in Araria, Bihar had asked Netflix not to use the name of Subrata Roy, which was challenged by Netflix. Roy had argued that series was an attempt to tarnish his image. Choksi, currently living in Antigua and Barbuda, had approached the Delhi high court through advocate Vijay Aggarwal saying his reputation would suffer great injustice should the series be allowed to stream with references to him and the legal cases pending against him. The Delhi high court had dismissed Choksis plea while asking the Centre to regulate digital content. Netflix had rigorously defended the allegations saying the government does not regulate content on OTT. The company also relied on the laws of freedom of speech and expression to argue that the series is like a documentary referring to facts which are widely discussed in the public domain even otherwise and arent sub-judice in these circumstances. The Centre had also refused to intervene in the matter saying it does not regulate content on OTT platforms. Kayleigh McEnany White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany speaks during a press briefing at the White House on Monday, July 06, 2020 in Washington, DC. Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images MSNBC's Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski were appalled that White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany interacted with reporters despite knowing she'd been exposed to the coronavirus. President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump and White House adviser Hope Hicks have all tested positive for the highly contagious virus, and Associated Press reporter Jonathan Lemire said some senior officials knew they had been exposed before holding public events. "That's an important moment because it raised eyebrows at the time that he travelled with, this is before we knew anything about Hope Hicks, he travelled with a smaller party than usual yesterday to New Jersey," Lemire said, "and Kayleigh McEnany, who we were told was slated to travel with him did not. Instead, one of the deputy press secretaries did. Kayleigh McEnany was, we have now learned, notified of Hope Hicks' positive diagnoses yesterday and later in the day still held a briefing with White House reporters, and, of course, she was not wearing a mask." "Good lord," Scarborough said. "Are you kidding me?" "Oh my god," Brzezinski added. "Stop right there." "Wait," Scarborough said. "She knew before that press conference where she didn't wear a mask, in front of all of those reporters and had heated exchanges with Fox News reporters?" "Screaming about the river," Brzezinski added. "She knew that she had been exposed to this disease, and went out and still had a press conference in front of members of the press?" Scarborough said. Lemire agreed that may have happened, although subsequent reporting showed McEnany did not know about Hicks' positive test until shortly before the news broke Thursday evening. "That's correct, Joe," he said. "She still took the podium in the White House briefing room. Yes, she took to the podium in the White House briefing room and spoke to reporters after learning that Hope Hicks had not been feeling well, after learning that Hope Hicks tested positive. The president himself did not interact with reporters, which was noteworthy that's rare these days. No reporters had contact with him, other than waving at a distance headed to the helicopter headed to his New Jersey fundraiser." Story continues "Another key person in this, if the person were to be sick, is Vice President [Mike] Pence," Lemire added. "He did not travel with the president the last two days. He's had his own travel schedule, he was not in Washington [on] Wednesday or Thursday, he was on the campaign trail but he was seen Tuesday ahead of the debate heading into the White House residence, presumably to wish the president luck. So on Tuesday, we believe, there was contact between the president and vice president." https://youtu.be/8hzkjIf1Ifc Related Articles CAIRO Some 2,000 artifacts of various sizes have recently arrived at the Grand Egyptian Museum, located in Remaya Square. They were moved from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, Tell el-Yahudiya (Mound of the Jews) and the Giza Pyramid complex to be among the distinctive items on display at the museum. Maj. Gen. Atef Meftah, general director of the Grand Egyptian Museum, said in a Sept. 19 press statement that the number of items transferred to the museum had reached 54,000 artifacts so far, including two pink granite columns belonging to King Ramses II, each six meters (20 feet) high and weighing 13 tons, which will be the last pieces to be placed on the Great Stairs of the museum. Tayyeb Abbas, director of archaeological affairs at the Grand Egyptian Museum, said in a press statement that these items include 54 artifacts from the King Tutankhamun collection, including jewelry and gold necklaces as well as a gilded wood statue of Tutankhamun standing with his left foot forward on a rectangular base placed on the back of a leopard, holding a stick in one hand, a flail in the other, a Hedjet on the head and a wide necklace covering his chest and shoulders. Eissa Zeidan, head of the restoration affairs and transfer of antiquities department at the museum, explained that the items are being transferred based on a specific schedule and special display scenario at the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is set to be inaugurated next year. He told Al-Monitor that 47 wooden pieces of Khufu's second solar ship were also moved from the Giza Pyramid complex, making the total number of wooden items transferred to the Grand Egyptian Museum 1,053. He said that each of the items has its own report documenting its conservation status, and that the restoration and documentation of all items were carried out by the museum restoration team in a very efficient way and in line with the standards relating to the packaging and transportation of artifacts. King Tutankhamun-related artifacts were sent to a wood restoration factory and inorganic antiquities restoration factory, where a specialized team will carry out the restoration works and have them ready for display when the museum is inaugurated, Zeidan stated. Speaking to Al-Monitor over the phone, Egyptian archaeologist and former Minister of Antiquities Zahi Hawass said that the Grand Egyptian Museum is the most important global cultural project of the 21st century, and will be the greatest and largest museum in the world. Its interior design and the display of antiquities will be dazzling for the tourists, he said, adding that 100 monumental statues of the kings who ruled Egypt throughout the ages will be displaced at the museums entrance hall. Hawass noted that the state and political leadership have particular interest in the Egyptian antiquities, and that President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi will announce the inauguration date, scheduled for next year. It will be a message to the world that Egypt is a safe and secure country and a tourist destination, he added, noting that the museum is the gift Egypt is offering to the world. Once inaugurated, the Grand Egyptian Museum will amaze the entire world, he said. He explained that a group of artifacts was moved from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square and other museums to be placed in storage labs for antiquities, and that 60,000 artifacts will be on display at the museum. Mostafa Waziri, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, told Al-Monitor that the museums collection was completed, and that the total number of artifacts that will be on display amounts to 60,000 pieces. He said that the entire world, including the international media, is awaiting the inauguration of the museum, since it will include treasures that have not been on display before. He noted that visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum will be a different and unique cultural experience, as the antiquities will be displayed in a different way from other museums. He said that it contains artifacts of King Amun, all of Tutankhamuns treasures that will be on display at the same place for the first time in history, in addition to the huge statues, including the 11-meter-high (36 feet) and 3,200-year-old statue of Ramses II. Elhamy el-Zayat, chairman of the Egyptian Federation of Chambers of Tourism, told Al-Monitor, that the Grand Egyptian Museum will be the top tourist attraction once inaugurated next year, which the Egyptian state will benefit from in marketing tourism. He said that a number of presidents and royalties around the world, as well as public figures and the international media, will be invited to attend the opening ceremony. The number of tourists will double in the future with the Grand Egyptian Museum displaying important artifacts for the first time, according to Zayat. Its still early in October, but some places a short drive north of the Lehigh Valley are already approaching peak fall foliage color. Parts of Pennsylvanias northern tier and areas of central Pa. are now exhibiting their best color, according to the most recent foliage report from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. German mechanic tells how his car was driven off by two men aged 77 and 86 - EYEEM A mechanic in Germany had a shock when his car was stolen by two pensioners on the run from a care home for people with dementia. Ingo Kurz left his own Dacia in the forecourt of his workshop with the keys in the ignition while he ran inside to answer the phone. When he returned, the car was gone. A lorry driver told him hed seen it speeding off with two pensioners inside. He said an elderly gentleman was behind the wheel and an even older gentleman was in the passenger seat, Mr Kurz told Bild newspaper. The 44-year-old lives in Neudorf, a tiny place of just 680 residents in the Harz mountains, a sparsely populated area of eastern Germany where crime is rare and people routinely leave their doors unlocked. Panicking, he called the police while his wife went to look for the car. While he was giving a statement, his wife arrived with the news that shed seen the blue Dacia 12 miles away. When police tracked down the vehicle, they discovered a story that could have come straight out of the bestselling novel The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared. The two car thieves were residents of a local care home for people with dementia. The driver was 77 years old, and the passenger was 86. The two men had already been reported missing after they disappeared from the care home. They told police they had set out to visit a friend in the neighbouring village of Aschersleben and thought it was their lucky day when they discovered Mr Kurzs car with the key in the ignition Maybe the food wasnt so good at the care home and they wanted to pop out, Mr Kurz told the local Volkstimme newspaper. I suppose its my own fault, leaving the keys in the ignition. But we know everyone here in the village, that sort of thing just doesnt happen here. The car was returned to Mr Kurz unharmed and the two pensioners were taken back to the care home. Legally, they could face prosecution for vehicle theft, but prosecutors said they are unlikely to bring charges. The military-political leadership of Azerbaijan screams loudly about civilian facilities to cover up its own vandalism. Artsrun Hovhannisyan, a representative of the Ministry of Defense of Armenia, wrote this on Facebook Monday. "Six days after you [Azerbaijan] shelled Stepanakert, Martakert, Martuni, Hadrut and other settlements [of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh)], the President of Artsakh clearly stated that we will hit [Azerbaijani] military targets which may be located close to civilian facilities. But you do not care about your residents, too. And you are obviously doing all this to prepare the ground for provocations," Hovhannisyan added. On September 27, the Azerbaijani armed forces launched a large-scale attack against Artsakh, targeting its civilian population, too. As of October 4, the Artsakh Defense Army has destroyed the adversarys 14 combat helicopters, 17 warplanes, 124 drones, 368 units of armored vehiclesmainly tanks, 82 vehicles, and 10 armored personnel carriersone TOS-1A heavy artillery system, 4 Smerch and 1 Uragan rocket launcher systems. The adversary has over 3,145 casualties, more than 5,270 wounded. From the Armenian side, according to preliminary data, there are 209 casualties and more than 200 wounded. The Azerbaijani army also targeted the military and civilian infrastructure of Artsakh and Armenia, as a result of which 2 civilians were killed in Gegharkunik Province of Armenia and 14in Artsakh. Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha's spouse is in the spotlight - YONHAP/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock South Koreas foreign minister is under growing pressure to resign after her husband defied the ministrys travel advice and flew to the United States on Saturday. The public has been further enraged after it emerged that Lee Yill-Byung, a university professor and husband of Kang Kyung-wha, was travelling to the US to purchase a new yacht. Only essential overseas travel is permitted, at a time when many Koreans have lost their jobs due to the impact of coronavirus. The Chosun Ilbo newspaper accused Mrs Kang of flagrant hypocrisy after her ministry demanded that people skip this years Chuseok holidays, the equivalent of Thanksgiving and the most important holiday on the Korean calendar, to stop the spread of the Covid-19. Mrs Kang, of the Left-leaning Democratic Party, was quoted as saying that peoples private lives are not an absolute right as she ordered the public to stay at home. Local media have learned that her husband flew to Vietnam for a week in February, travelled to the French territory of Martinique shortly after returning and then went to Greece in June. Mr Lee was confronted by a television crew as he prepared to fly to the US on Saturday, saying: The coronavirus epidemic is not going to disappear any time soon. I cant sit at home all the time. I cant keep worrying about other peoples lives as I live my own. The following day, Mrs Kang told reporters that she was sorry about her husbands decision to travel overseas, adding: He has planned the trip for such a long time and postponed it several times, so its difficult for me to tell him not to go. The opposition People Power Party has condemned Mr Lees actions, with a party official telling the Chosun Ilbo, Small businesses are suffering from the epidemic, but a family member of a high-ranking government official is travelling and buying a yacht. The US has more than 7.6 million reported cases of the coronavirus and over 214,000 fatalities. South Korea, in contrast, has seen 24,164 cases and 422 deaths. A professor of politics at a leading university in Seoul told The Telegraph that People are really raging and the entire issue is escalating very rapidly. People are saying that the foreign minister needs to step down; its that serious, the academic said. The public can put up with a lot, but not this level of hypocrisy. And they are particularly disappointed that this is happening in a left-leaning party that was elected in large part as a protest against corruption in the previous government. The current vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court has many Americans talking about Roe v. Wade, the 1973 ruling that legalized abortion nationwide. A total of 27,339 abortions were reported in Michigan in 2019, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Thats equivalent to roughly one abortion for every four live births. In an encyclical published on Sunday, Pope Francis announced that he'd had an epiphany thanks to the Wuhan virus: it's time to ditch capitalism. But that's not all. He believes, too, that in a time of a serious infectious disease, we should focus even harder on open borders. And he blithely upended almost two millennia of Church doctrine by doing away with St. Augustine's "just war" theory. These actions reflect Francis's Catholic upbringing within the communist "liberation theology" of the Latin American church. They may also show the effects of his ongoing alliance with Chinese communists and with Muslims. Fox Business sums up the gist of Francis's communist dreams (emphasis mine): "Aside from the differing ways that various countries responded to the crisis, their inability to work together became quite evident," Francis wrote. "Anyone who thinks that the only lesson to be learned was the need to improve what we were already doing, or to refine existing systems and regulations, is denying reality." He cited the grave loss of millions of jobs as a result of the virus as evidence of the need for politicians to listen to popular movements, unions and marginalized groups and to craft more just social and economic policies. "The fragility of world systems in the face of the pandemic has demonstrated that not everything can be resolved by market freedom," he wrote. "It is imperative to have a proactive economic policy directed at 'promoting an economy that favours productive diversity and business creativity' and makes it possible for jobs to be created, and not cut."' [snip] As an outgrowth of that, Francis rejected the concept of an absolute right to property for individuals, stressing instead the "social purpose" and common good that must come from sharing the Earth's resources. He repeated his criticism of the "perverse" global economic system, which he said consistently keeps the poor on the margins while enriching the few an argument he made most fully in his 2015 landmark environmental encyclical "Laudato Sii" (Praised Be). I know from experience that, when people read what Francis wrote, many will say that the Church has always been socialist in orientation. That's untrue. Jesus distinguished the realm of faith from the political realm. When he spoke of giving up property, he was speaking to individuals, not calling for communism. Francis also fails to recognize that our current economic problems aren't because the free market failed. They're because leftists slammed the brakes on the free market. The pope used this encyclical to reiterate his endless push to erase borders: Much of the new encyclical repeats Francis' well-known preaching about the need to welcome and value migrants and his rejection of the nationalistic, isolationist policies of many of today's political leaders. Lastly, the pope seeks something he calls a greater "human fraternity." In doing so, he relies upon a document he composed with the grand imam of Egypt's Al-Azhar. The pope is perhaps too naive to recognize that, in Islam, the house of fraternity and peace (Dar al-Islam) is a world in which everyone is Islamic. Outside the Islamic world is the world of war (Dar al-Harb), and every faithful Muslim must wage jihad to achieve that "peaceful" fraternal world. Or, as Tacitus wrote when quoting Calgacus, a Caledonian who fought Rome's imperial reach, "they [the Romans] make a desert and call it peace." Pope Francis, bathed in ahistorical ignorance, also concluded that there can be no "just wars": "It is very difficult nowadays to invoke the rational criteria elaborated in earlier centuries to speak of the possibility of a 'just war,'" Francis wrote in the most controversial new element of the encyclical. Both the Chinese and the Islamists must be delighted to read those words. Hitler would have liked them, too. Had Francis been in the papacy during WWII, all of Europe would have been enslaved to Germany, and all Jews, not just six million, would have been slaughtered. Homosexuals, gypsies, people with mental and physical disabilities, and anyone else that the Germans dehumanized would have also found their way to the gas chambers. As with everything he's done since attaining the papal throne, Francis intends to undo all of the good work that the great John Paul II did in pursuit of human freedom and dignity. Image: Pope Francis. YouTube screen grab. Mobile network operator Vodafone Czech Republic has launched its non-standalone (NSA) 5G network in a number of major cities throughout the country. TeleGeographys CommsUpdate says that the cities Prague, Brno, Usti nad Labem, Jesenik and Karlovy Vary will be using dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS) technology, which enables the sharing of frequencies between 4G and 5G networks. A number of local press reports suggest that the 5G network is also available in the Prague metro. The Prague metro began operation in 1974 and now has three lines with 61 stations. It currently has a transit network 65.2 kilometres long. At the moment, 5G covers the entire section from Dejvicka to Muzeum on the green line, and from Smichovske nadrazi to Ceskomoravska on the yellow line. Of course, NSA 5G networks focus on providing enhanced mobile broadband (higher data bandwidth) and reliable connectivity. This mode allows operators to leverage their existing network assets rather than deploying a completely new end-to-end 5G network. Its not clear when 5G spectrum will be made available for standalone 5G networks in the Czech Republic. The Czech Telecommunication Office (CTU) confirmed earlier this month that seven interested parties are seeking to bid in the Czech Republics upcoming sale of 700MHz and 3400MHz-3600MHz 5G-ready spectrum, though no candidates names have yet been revealed. There are three main mobile phone operators in the Czech Republic: Vodafone, O2 and T-Mobile. A number of press reports indicate that O2 has also been offering 5G internet in selected Czech cities since July. A school will be shut down for 28 days in case two or more classes in the school are closed due to the spread of coronavirus Egypts education ministry has defined the requirements for the closure of classes and schools, whether in complexes, villages or governorates, due to the spread of coronavirus among students in the new school year set to start 17 October. A class will be closed for 28 days in the case that more than one student tests positive for coronavirus in a period of two weeks, a document released by the Ministry of Education revealed Sunday. Also, a school will be closed for 28 days in the case two or more classes in the school are closed due to the spread of Covid-19. A school complex will also be shut down for the same period in case one of its schools is closed and then a class of another school in the same complex is closed. Schools in a village or city can be closed on orders of the governorate in the event of quarantining this village or city, and until the period of quarantine is over. Schools in a governorate may also be closed, based on recommendations by the crisis management committee, for at least 28 days if required, the document said, adding that such decisions apply to governmental, private, international and other schools. Egypts 23 million school students are scheduled to begin a new academic year 17 October. The ministry has prepared a plan to allow schools, closed since March in the wake of the pandemic, to reopen safely, including deploying remote learning and decreasing attendance days. On 8 September, Minister of Education Tarek Shawki announced that the two days per week rule for attendance will apply to students from kindergarten to grade three, from grade four to six, and grades seven to nine. Grades 10 to 12 will, wherever it is possible, be schooled mostly online. Egypt has so far reported 103,575 coronavirus cases and 5,970 deaths, with a relatively low number of daily cases over the past two months. The pandemic forced the country to close schools and universities for the last semester and replace exams in many subjects with online research work for final grades. Search Keywords: Short link: Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson wears a protective face covering as he arrives at the BBC in central London on October 4, 2020.(Justin Tallis/AFP via Getty Images) UKs Johnson Defends Virus Strategy as Infections Soar LONDONBritish Prime Minister Boris Johnson defended his handling of the coronavirus pandemic on Oct. 4 despite weeks of rising infections but warned that the country faced a bumpy winter ahead. Britain has Europes highest coronavirus death toll, at more than 42,400, and Johnsons Conservative government is facing criticism from all sides. Opponents say tougher social restrictions are needed to suppress a second wave of COVID-19 that is already sweeping the country. But many in Johnsons right-of-center party argue that restrictions must be eased to save the battered economy. Johnson told the BBC the government had to strike a difficult balance and he couldnt take a course that could expose us to tens of thousands more deaths in very short order. It is a moral imperative to save lives but on the other hand, we have to keep our economy moving. That is the balance that we are trying to strike, he said. Britain went into a national lockdown in March, with most businesses closed and all but essential travel barred. Restrictions began to be lifted in June as the pandemic tide receded. But like other European countries, daily new coronavirus infections began to rise again when pubs and restaurants reopened, children went back to school and students returned to university. The U.K. is now under national restrictions on socializing, including a 10 p.m. curfew for bars and restaurants, and groups limited to six, with areas of high infection facing stricter local measures, which Johnson and other ministers have sometimes struggled to explain clearly. Critics say months of mixed messages and changes of advice on everything from wearing masks to whether or not to work from home has left people confused and exhausted. A national test-and-trace program to find people who have been exposed to the virus has also had persistent problems and is failing to reach more than a quarter of infected peoples contacts. Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition Labour Party, accused the government of serial incompetence. The prime minister is governing in hindsight, Starmer told the Observer newspaper. So he charges forward, not recognizing the problem, has a car crash, looks in the rear mirror and says: Whats all that about? Johnson said he knew many people were furious with him over perceived inconsistencies and confusion surrounding the local measures, but he was seeking to strike a balance between public health and the wider needs of society and the economy. In these areas, and I appreciate the fatigue that people are experiencing, but we have to work together, follow the guidance and get the virus down whilst keeping the economy moving, thats the balance were trying to find, he said in an interview on BBC television. Britain recorded 12,872 new coronavirus infections on Oct. 3, by far the highest daily total since the outbreak began, although the figure includes a backlog of previously unreported cases. The daily number cant directly be compared to U.K.s peak in April because many more tests are being performed now. The number of hospitalizations and deaths in Britain is also rising but remains far below the U.K.s springtime peak. Another 49 COVID-19 deaths were reported on Oct. 3, compared to almost 1,000 a day at the height of the outbreak. Johnson acknowledged that many people feel fatigue after months of restrictions and expressed hope that progress on vaccines and testing would change the scientific equation in the next few months, allowing a return to normality. But he warned its going to continue to be bumpy through to Christmas. It may even be bumpy beyond. During his Oct. 4 interview, Johnson denied a suggestion that the local restrictions were not working given infection rates were still rising in the affected areas and there was no end in sight to the measures. Im afraid its simply too early to say, he said, adding that the advice to the government was that it was necessary to wait and see if the R number, the reproduction rate of the virus, started to come down. Striking a more optimistic note, Johnson said he expected the scientific equation to change over the coming months with progress on testing and on vaccines, which would enable the government to take a different approach. If you talk to the scientists, theyre all virtually unanimous that by the spring things will be radically different and well be in a different world, that is the normal cycle of a pandemic like this, he said. This is a pandemic in which people need to understand that there is hope, he said. We will get through this very well. Meanwhile, Spains capital Madrid has become Europes biggest hotspot in the second wave of the coronavirus, beginning its first day on Oct. 3 under a partial lockdown, with police controlling travel in and out of the city. The measures prohibit all nonessential trips in and out of the capital and nine of its suburbsaffecting around 4.8 million people. Restaurants must close at 11 p.m. and shops at 10 p.m., and both must limit occupancy to 50% of their capacity. Reuters contributed to this report. Make a Will Week is October 4-10 in British Columbia, and the annual event organized by the provincial government encourages the creation or updating of wills. It comes at a pertinent time for those looking to create their will, as COVID-19 led to increased demand for emergency planning and spurred new provincial legislation that will allow for electronic signing and online storing of wills. According to research commissioned by online estate planning platform Willful, only 38% of British Columbians have an up-to-date will, and 90% of millennials dont have a will. Willful has released a new guide to digital wills for British Columbians to prepare them for these upcoming changes. Digital wills are coming, and BC residents are ready - in fact the majority of residents already think signing and storing a will online are legal. COVID-19 has highlighted the need for digital processes across all industries, and BC is the first province to adopt innovative legislation to make it easier for residents to complete their will fully online, said Erin Bury, CEO of online estate planning platform, Willful. The pandemic has caused 60% of British Columbians to think more about emergency preparedness, and we anticipate that number to grow as the pandemic continues. Were excited to educate residents about how they can prepare themselves for digital wills. Creating a will in BC has always included offline elements, since paper copies of wills have to be signed and witnessed in person and stored offline. When COVID-19 hit in early March, several provinces including BC passed temporary orders allowing for virtual witnessing of wills via video conferencing tools. BC is the first province in Canada to table permanent digital will legislation. Bill 21, formally titled the Wills, Estates and Succession Amendment Act, amends existing wills and estates legislation to allow for electronic signing, permanent virtual witnessing, and storing of wills online. Bill 21 received Royal Assent in August, and it is expected to come into effect in late 2020 or early 2021. COVID-19 led to an increase in demand for emergency planning, and Willful conducted an Angus Reid survey to see how the pandemic has changed behaviours and further pushed residents to think about estate planning. The survey results highlighted: 89% of British Columbians think it is already legal to sign your will online in Canada 92% of British Columbians think it is already legal to store your will online in Canada 23% of British Columbians (1 in 4) think you should be able to digitally sign your will 53% of British Columbians without a will would complete their will if they could do it online 46% of British Columbians said the ability to complete, sign, and store important documents online would make their life easier 48% of British Columbians said COVID-19 made them more likely to complete important documents or tasks online 42% of British Columbians said being able to complete your will online during COVID-19 would make it more accessible for seniors One Willful customer attests to the value of proper family planning. When my mom passed away a few years ago, one of the greatest gifts she left my sisters and I was an up to date will, said Jerrid Grimm, the Vancouver-based founder of PressBoard and Willful customer. It may seem trivial but it truly allowed our family to spend our time remembering her, instead of worrying about what to do with her funeral and estate. That experience compelled my wife and I to complete our own wills on Willful. It only took a few minutes but I know from experience what a relief it will be to those that we love. For more information on Make a Will Week, please visit: http://www.willful.co/bill21 About Willful Willful is on a mission to change the way Canadians prepare for and deal with death. The company's first product is an online platform that makes it affordable, convenient, and easy for Canadians to create a legal will online. The platform provides simplified estate planning services (creation of a Legal Will, Representation Agreement, and Enduring Power of Attorney), enabling consumers to create a will and/or power of attorney by following a clear step-by-step process. Willfuls platform was developed in collaboration with leading estate lawyers, and has pricing plans starting at $99. Willful is currently available to residents of Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Manitoba, and it has helped Canadians create over 35,000 documents since launching in 2017. NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- MUFG announced today that Dr. Tobi Petrocelli has joined the company as Director of Environmental and Sustainability Management. In her role, Petrocelli oversees sustainability research, analysis and guidance. She is an influential contributor to the bank's environmental policy and manages its relationships with ecological Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). Petrocelli has extensive knowledge in the field of sustainability management. Prior to joining MUFG, she founded Verde Enterprises, a consultancy created to develop sustainable solutions and best practices for capital systems and corporate operations through technological innovation and corporate responsibility. In that role, she consulted corporate clients, municipal governments and global organizations. Petrocelli is an international contributor in the field of sustainability through her previous roles as Communications Consultant with the United Nations Environmental Programme in Geneva, Switzerland; Sustainability Advisor with AccountAbility in New York; and Director of Strategic Initiatives & Sustainability with Clearbrook Global Advisors. A New York native, Petrocelli attended Fordham University, Columbia University and Walden University, where she earned a Doctorate in International Business Administration, a Masters in Sustainability Management and a Bachelor's degree in Broadcast Journalism and Communications. She will be based in New York. In conjunction with Petrocelli's arrival at the bank, and in a move to underscore the company's commitment to strengthening its ESG goals, MUFG recently held its first internal global ESG conference. The conference brought together global leaders within the enterprise. A direct outcome of the virtual gathering was the formation of the company's first-ever Global ESG Committee comprised of senior business line leaders within the bank. The committee will be dedicated to maintaining and growing MUFG's presence in sustainable finance league tables, continuing to remain at the forefront of financing innovative technologies, and developing new products and services that will keep the company competitive with peers in meeting the challenges of the transition to a low-carbon economy. "This year has been a year of unparalleled change, but it's also been a time to reflect on what we, as a global financial institution, can do to harness our influence in order to drive positive outcomes for all our stakeholders. That's why I am so pleased that Tobi has joined our organization. Her breadth of experience in sustainability will help guide our environmental practices to build on our record of promoting sustainable growth for clients while simultaneously remaining responsible stewards of our finite natural resources," said Julius Robinson, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility for the Americas at MUFG. About MUFG Union Bank, N.A. As of June 30, 2020, MUFG Union Bank, N.A. operated 348 branches, consisting primarily of retail banking branches in the West Coast states, along with commercial branches in Texas, Illinois, New York, and Georgia. We provide a wide spectrum of corporate, commercial, and retail banking and wealth management solutions to meet the needs of our clients. We also offer an extensive portfolio of value-added solutions for clients, including investment banking, personal and corporate trust, global custody, transaction banking, capital markets, and other services. With assets of $136.3 billion, as of June 30, 2020, MUFG Union Bank has strong capital reserves, credit ratings, and capital ratios relative to peer banks. MUFG Union Bank is a proud member of the Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (NYSE: MUFG), one of the world's largest financial institutions with total assets of approximately 341.9 trillion (JPY) or $3.2 trillion (USD)1, as of June 30, 2020. The corporate headquarters (principal executive office) for MUFG Americas Holdings Corporation, which is the financial holding company, and MUFG Union Bank, is in New York City. The main banking office of MUFG Union Bank is in San Francisco, California. 1 Exchange rate of 1 USD=107.7 (JPY) as of June 30, 2020 Press contact: Erika Montelongo Mobile: (818) 425-0998 [email protected] SOURCE MUFG Actor Swara Bhasker has called for the release of Rhea Chakraborty, who remains incarcerated at the Byculla Jail for allegedly procuring banned drugs for her boyfriend, the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput. Sushant died on June 14, and his family has accused Rhea of abetting his suicide and misappropriating his funds. Her judicial custody had been extented to October 6. In a tweet supporting Leader of the Congress in Lok Sabha, Adhir Chowdhurys calls for Rheas release, Swara wrote, Well done sir! and added applause emojis, using the hashtag Release Rhea Chakraborty. The comments come shortly after an AIIMS forensic team tasked with re-evaluating Sushants post-mortem report concluded that the actor died by suicide, and wasnt murdered. We are all pained by the expiry of Sushant ji but he cannot be honoured by falsely implicating a lady as an accused, I have earlier said that Rhea Chakroborty was an innocent lady, she should be released without further harassment to her, she has been the victim of Political conspiracy, the MP had written in a tweet. On Saturday, a panel of AIIMS doctors termed Sushants death a case of hanging and death by suicide. In a report submitted to the CBI on September 29, the six-member team of forensic doctors said that there were no injuries on the body other than of hanging nor was presence of any seductive material detected, dismissing claims of strangulation and poisoning. Swara has spoken often about Rheas trial by media. India... witness our lowest! Shameful witch hunt! Disgusting, she had written in a September 6 tweet. Also read: If Sushant Singh Rajput was alive, he wouldve been probed for the same thing: Swara Bhasker in defence of Rhea Chakraborty In a column published in The Week, Swara had written that after the initial debate around nepotism, attention was diverted to Rhea after Sushants father filed an FIR against her in Patna. This led to a shocking slander campaign and hysterical media trial that has practically declared Rhea to be a murderess, with no proof, based on contorted facts, rank misinformation and what are now being proven to be lies, Swara wrote. Sushants death is being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation. The Narcotics Control Bureau and the Enforcement Directorate are conducting separate investigations into the drugs and financial angles of the case. Follow @htshowbiz for more SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON In a press statement released on Monday, the European Commission announced having approved a loan guarantee of up to around 19.3 million euros (approximately 94 million lei) in favour of the Romanian state-owned airline TAROM, according to Agerpres. The measure aims to compensate the airline for the losses directly caused by the coronavirus outbreak and the travel restrictions introduced by Romania and other destination countries to limit the spread of the coronavirus March 16, 2020- June 30, 2020 that forced Tarom to cancel most of its scheduled flights, and caused major losses in turnover. The public support will take the form of guarantee to market loan(s) The commission assessed the measure under Article 107(2)(b) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), which enables the commission to approve state aid measures granted by member states to compensate specific companies or specific sectors (in the form of schemes) for the damages directly caused by exceptional occurrences, such as the coronavirus outbreak. The commission found in particular that the Romanian measure will compensate damage that is directly linked to the coronavirus outbreak. An independent external audit firm will verify that the aid does not exceed the amount of damage sustained March 16 - June 30, 2020. Following the audit, any public support received by TAROM in excess of the actual damage suffered will have to be returned to Romania. The commission also found that the measure is proportionate as the compensation does not exceed what is necessary to make good the damage. On this basis, the commission concluded that the Romanian measure is in line with EU State aid rules. On August 20, the European Commission announced having approved 62 million euros in loan guarantee to compensate privately-ownedairline Blue Air for damage sustained as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier, Romania's Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure and Communications (MTIC) released for public consultation a draft emergency ordinance regulating the guarantee by the Ministry of Public Finance (MFP) of two bank loans to be granted to TAROM and Blue Air. "In order to ensure compliance with European state aid rules, it is provided that the granting of individual state aid will be made only after obtaining authorisation from the European Commission and under the conditions set out in the decision of the Euopean Commission,"concludes the emergency ordinance published earlier August by the Ministry of Transport. A Michigan 'cannibal' charged with killing and mutilating a man he met through the dating app Grindr late last year is mentally fit to stand trial, a judge ruled Monday. Shiawassee County District Judge Ward Clarkson ruled Mark Latunski competent for trial this morning and slated his preliminary hearing to commence on October 23, public defender Doug Corwin revealed to WILX-TV. The 51-year-old has been charged with the murder and mutilation of Kevin Bacon, 25, who was found dead inside a secret room in the basement of Latunskis Bennington Township home on December 28 four days after he was last seen alive. Bacon was found by police suspended from a ceiling by his ankles. He had been stabbed twice, before having his throat cut. Investigators say Latunski admitted to later cutting off the victims testicles with a knife and eating them. Mark Latunski (pictured December, 2019) was ruled competent to stand trial this morning and slated his preliminary hearing to commence on October 23 The 51-year-old has been charged with the murder and mutilation of Kevin Bacon, 25, who was found in a secret room inside the basement of Latunskis Bennington Township home on December 28 four days after he was last seen alive. Bacons father, Karl Bacon, expressed relief to Michigan Live over the courts ruling Monday, as he seeks to obtain justice for his son. Im glad that its moving along, finally were getting some movement, Karl Bacon said. This whole COVID thing has put everything on hold. Latunski has been receiving treatment in an Ypsilanti psychiatric hospital for several months. He was transferred to the facility from the county jail in June, four months after being found unresponsive in his cell in February. Shiawassee County Sheriff Brian BeGole previously said that his transfer was delayed by COVID-19 and the wait for a bed to open at the secured facility. Latuski was initially found not competent to stand trial in late February after forensic evaluations were approved by Shiawassee Chief District Judge Ward L. Clarkson. The motion triggered a 15-month window for prosecutors to find him competent. On October 2, Corwin, Latunskis public defender filed for an independent psychological evaluation to be carried out ahead of the decision. Corwin previously filed an insanity defense for his client. Karl Bacon said hes been anxiously awaiting the judges decision, adding that the family is seeking only one outcome in the case. Were hoping he gets prison for the rest of his life, he said. Thats what were going for. Bacons father, Karl Bacon (pictured with wife Pam), expressed relief to Michigan Live over the courts ruling Monday, as he seeks to obtain justice for his son Latunski has been receiving treatment in an Ypsilanti psychiatric hospital for several months. He was transferred to the facility from the county jail in June, four months after being found unresponsive in his cell in February. Aspiring hairdresser Kevin Bacon was last seen alive on December 24, when his roommate said he left their home to meet up with a man hed met on the mobile dating app Grindr before completely vanishing. The man he was venturing off to meet, police would later discover, was Latunski and a horrifying fate awaited the 25-year-old when he stepped inside the suspects home. Bacon was reported missing by his dad Karl the following day after he failed to show for the family's annual Christmas breakfast. Police soon found Kevin Bacon's car at a Family Dollar in Clayton Township, later discovering his phone, wallet and some clothes inside the vehicle. Three days later, Michigan State Police received a call for assistance from Clayton Township Police Department to conduct a welfare check for Bacon inside Latunski's home after receiving a tip he may be inside. The officers knocked on the front door of the home and spoke with Latunski on his doorstep, who agreed to let them in ad carry out a search of the home. Latuski, then 50, reportedly admitted to the officers he had killed Bacon by stabbing him in the back and slitting his throat late Christmas Eve or early Christmas morning. Bacon was found dead hanging upside down from the ceiling naked in a hidden room in Latunskis basement, where he had been suspended with rope tied around his ankles for nearly four days. Latunski then reportedly admitted to officers he has also used the murder weapon to cut off Bacon's testicles and later ate them, police testimony shows. He was been charged with one count of open murder and one count of mutilation of a human body. Hes remained in custody ever since the gruesome discovery was made. Aspiring hairdresser Kevin Bacon was last seen alive on December 24, when his roommate said he left their home to meet up with a man hed met on the mobile dating app Grindr before completely vanishing. Thar man was Mark Latunski Bacon was found dead hanging upside down from the ceiling naked in a hidden room in Latunskis basement, where he had been suspended with rope tied around his ankles for nearly four days. (Latunski's former residence is show above. The property was auction off in February) Divorce, custody and criminal records previously observed by DailyMal.com revealed an extensive history of complaints over Latunskis mental health and behavior. A sufferer of various mental illness, he was known to have stopped taking medications to treat the conditions, records from the 66th District and 35th Circuit courts indicate. A motion filed by his ex-wife Emily Latunski to suspend visitation rights to his children on August 22 says the suspect had previously been diagnosed with major depression, paranoid schizophrenia and traits of a personality disorder in 2010 and 2012. '[Mark Latunski] has a history of mental illness and has been hospitalized in the Owosso Mental Stress unit ... [and] has a history of going off his medication,' the motion states. Latunski's husband of three years, Jamie Arnold, told M-Live he wasn't aware of his ex-partner's mental illnesses until July, when he was arrested for failing to pay child support. 'To my knowledge, I couldn't force him to see a therapist or take medication,' Arnold said. 'Never in a million years did I think he'd be capable of doing such a horrendous crime.' Arnold said he left Latunski in September and no longer lived at the home where Bacon was discovered. 'In hindsight, it's easy to sit back and speculate but at the time you're going through it there are emotions and feelings involved. You don't want to think that the person you fell in love with is some crazy homicidal maniac,' Arnold said. 'I pray that God is there for Kevin Bacon's family in their time of need and that He helps us all get through this, one day at a time.' Shiawassee County District Judge Ward Clarkson ruled Mark Latunski competent for trial this morning and slated his preliminary hearing to commence on October 23 Footloose star Kevin Bacon, who shares the same name as the victim, paid a touching tribute to the 25-year-old at the time, writing on Instagram: 'For obvious reasons I'm thinking this morning about the friends and family of this young person Kevin Bacon,' the actor wrote. 'His life was taken from him much too soon. His love was hairdressing. I bet he would have done a great job on this mess on my head. RIP KB.' The victim's father Karl Bacon said in January of naming his son Kevin: 'I wanted the same initials, but I didn't want Karl Jr. so that made sense. 'The other Kevin Bacon wasn't quite as famous as he is now.' Latunskis trial is set to begin on October 23. ST. JOHNS, N.L. - A Newfoundland and Labrador police officer charged with sexual assault will be heading to court for a third time. Royal Newfoundland Constabulary officer Carl Douglas Snelgroves new trial for the charge will begin on March 29 with jury selection. The date was set today in Newfoundland and Labrador Supreme Court. Snelgrove is charged with sexual assault for an incident that occurred in December 2014. He first stood trial on the charge in 2017, but the verdict was successfully appealed. Last month, his second trial on the charge ended in a mistrial. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. To mark the 151st birth anniversary of our Father of our Nation, IndianOil Corporation Limited has released a special film to celebrate the life and values of the Mahatma. In his lifetime, Mahatma Gandhi had propagated the need to embrace Swadeshi products and services to promote local industries and craftsmanship. This belief is at the core of the Gandhian way of life. With globalization making the world a global village, several local industries have gone out of business. However, the clarion call by our Honble Prime Minister, Narendra Modi to go vocal for local has given a boost to the indigenous industries. Through this film, IndianOil appeals to the Nation to go Swadeshi or Vocal for Local and to buy and endorse only those products which are made in our country. Gandhi advocated the concept of Swadeshi in the spirit of universal love and service. The background music in the film, Vaishnav Jan Toh, celebrates Gandhian values and his ideologies that strongly support the welfare of the country and its citizens. Kids who recover quickly from a runny nose, headache or upset stomach will no longer need a COVID test to return to Toronto schools and daycares, as the city adopts controversial new provincial guidelines for daily screening. The province announced the revised guidance for screening in schools last week, saying it would help ease the overburdened testing system amid a record 90,000 backlog on Friday. But its a change some infectious disease experts called a mistake. Torontos Medical Officer of Health Dr. Eileen de Villa said at a Friday press conference she wanted to review the local data first before committing to the policy, adding to the chaos and confusion for parents and teachers wondering whether to get kids tested for the sniffles. The agency worked very diligently before sending out updated guidance to schools that evening, said Torontos Associate Medical Officer of Health Dr. Vinita Dubey. We didnt switch right away, we wanted to be able to review the tool, she said. To review our context and to decide what makes the most sense from a scientific perspective, or from a logistical prospective for our schools, and given whats going on in Toronto. Dubey said Toronto Public Health looked at its own data on all 855 kids with symptoms in the city, from January to Sept. 27. The data showed that half had a fever, 36 per cent had a cough and 30 per cent had a headache. But it was hard to tease out runny nose or upset stomach because those symptoms were included in a catch-all other category that included nasal congestion and high blood pressure. About 45 per cent of kids had other symptoms. Public health plans to look at the data again for kids in school to compare. With the revised rules, the goal is to eliminate testing for the transient runny nose, she said, for example, when you come in from outside and you have a runny nose. The new Toronto Public Health guidelines do present testing as an option earlier than the provincial guidance, Dubey added, recommending testing or consulting a health-care provider if kids have one symptom that doesnt improve in 24 hours. So weve certainly put testing up front earlier for most of the situations, and thats mostly because of the higher rate of COVID-19 infections in Toronto, to not delay that testing piece, she said. The new regulations are effective Monday at daycares and schools across the city, but Toronto Public Healths new screening tool still needs to be translated into French and other languages, Dubey added. Dr. Anna Banerji, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at the University of Toronto, told the Star last week she was consulted by the Ontario government, but does not support the recent revisions. Reached on the weekend, she said Torontos adoption of the less stringent guidelines doesnt make any sense as a new runny nose is a common symptom of COVID-19. Whats the point of doing any of the screening if all it takes is a couple of kids with COVID to spread it? she said. She recommends keeping kids at home for a week to 10 days if they have any new symptom, even if they arent tested. Dr. Janine McCready, an infectious diseases physician at Michael Garron Hospital, said in an email its the wrong time to make a change that makes it easier for students with symptoms of COVID-19 to come to school. There has been uncontrolled, widespread community transmission for several weeks, she said, and Toronto Public Health will no longer be contact tracing, outside of outbreak settings, to inform people they have been exposed to COVID-19. If our policy makers are serious about trying to get us back to some sense of normalcy, they should be imposing more restrictions, not fewer restrictions, she added. Dubey recognizes it can be quite confusing for parents, and also for principals and teachers. Its going to be a huge change, she said. But we do recognize the utility in having harmony across the province, there are many students who live in Peel and attend school in Toronto and vice-versa. Her main message to schools is the importance of screening kids and staff for symptoms before they enter the building, as theyve seen situations where people with symptoms somehow slipped through the cracks. Toronto District School Board spokesperson Ryan Bird said it received notice from public health on Friday evening, and over the weekend worked to update its guidance on the board website. The board also sent out a notice to parents via email on Sunday evening. Toronto Catholic District School Board spokesperson Shazia Vlahos said in an email that its resources have also been updated. We will be modifying our screening passport and checklist to reflect these changes as well, she said. A recent report by Public Health Ontario, shared with the Star by the Ministry of Health, that reviewed the most recent scientific literature on COVID and kids, said fever and cough were the most commonly reported symptoms in children, with multiple other symptoms the next-most common, and asymptomatic infections as high as 20 per cent in children. Out of 1,332 kids who tested positive before July 13 and had available information on symptoms, runny noses were reported in between 8 and 18 per cent. Norm di Pasquale, a trustee with the Catholic board, said he supports sticking with stricter guidance locally. All of the changes, he said, are just creating more confusion for staff and parents. The trouble with changing things when we have a massive school board is that a big ship only turns so fast, he said. Parents are emailing saying, What should we do? In the absence of clear guidance, individual principals end up making decisions for each school, he added. Given Toronto is a hot spot with a lot of community spread, he favours keeping things as strict and restrictive as possible. To me it can be made very simple, if your child is sick and you can stay home, please stay home, he said. Even if its a runny nose. The checkpoint will operate according to the autumn schedule. The Stanytsia Luhanska entry and exit checkpoint resumed work on October 5 amid wildfires raging in Luhansk region. "Under an order by Commander of the Joint Forces, Lieutenant General Volodymyr Kravchenko, the Stanytsia Luhanska entry and exit checkpoint resumes work at 09:00 local time today, October 5. The checkpoint will operate according to the autumn schedule from 07:00 to 18:30 daily," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) Command wrote on Facebook. Read also Death toll from wildfires in Luhansk region grows to 11 (Video) Wildfires in Luhansk region Mike Pence at Franklin Graham's Prayer March: 'America is a nation of believers' Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment WASHINGTON Vice President Mike Pence addressed a crowd of tens of thousands from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial Saturday at one of two events in the nations capital calling on Americans to come together in repentance and prayer. Pence spoke at evangelist Franklin Grahams Washington Prayer March, which began at the Lincoln Memorial and ended 1.8 miles away at the United States Capitol. In his speech, the vice president extended the greetings of President Donald Trump, whom he described as a champion for people of faith, for life, and religious liberty. .@SecondLady and I were truly honored to join @Franklin_Graham and thousands of Believers for the #PrayerMarch2020 in Washington DC today. Thank you for your prayers, America. ???????? pic.twitter.com/p1l6J8Cp69 Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) September 26, 2020 Since the founding of our nation, the American people and our leaders have gone to prayer in challenging times, Pence said. George Washington prayed for the leaders and the people of our states what he called an earnest prayer that God would hold them and our states in his holy protection. Abraham Lincoln said during his time in the White House, I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. Pence proceeded to highlight how the president "has observed many times that America is a nation of believers. When the president and I travel around the country, the sweetest words we ever hear, and we hear them a lot, are when people reach out and simply say, Im praying for you. We want to urge you all to pray for all of those with public responsibilities in the executive branch, pray for all the members of the Congress of the United States, (and) pray for all the justices on the Supreme Court, including the remarkable woman that the president will nominate to fill the seat, he said. The crowd began to erupt into applause when he mentioned Trumps Supreme Court pick, Judge Amy Coney Barrett, who had yet to be formally announced when Pence spoke. In the wake of a global pandemic, we urge you to pray for all of those who are struggling with loss and with serious illness, pray for our doctors and nurses, and all of those that are bringing America through these challenging times. Pence closed his speech by predicting that: If His people who are called by His name will humble themselves and pray Hell do like Hes always done, through much more challenging times in the life of this nation, youll hear from Heaven and Hell heal this land, this one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Also held at the National Mall was the event known as The Return: National and Global Day of Prayer and Repentance. Many in the crowd flew Israeli and American flags, as well as flags reading police lives matter. The theme of the event was the need for repentance, with speakers calling on attendees to ask for Gods forgiveness and making the case that the failure of Americans to obey God has led to many of the problems engulfing the nation. Speakers at The Return included well-known Christian television personalities, officials from Christian advocacy organizations, as well as outspoken Christian political figures. Apathy has killed us, said Pierre Bynum, a chaplain at the Family Research Council, who was among speakers. Weve watched as prayer has been taken out of our schools. Weve watched as Bible reading has been taken out of our schools. Where were we? What were we doing? What were we thinking? They took the Ten Commandments off the walls. They legalized abortion, they legalized same-sex marriage, defying the living God. God has called us to be anything but apathetic, he stressed. Our country is imploding upon us and its all because of us. If the church had done its job all these years, if we had spoken out about the issues that we should have spoken out on and stood for them and stood in the public square, we could have kept this thing from happening. But now were in deep trouble and only God can save us at this point in time. Even our repentance is inadequate if its just human repentance. Weve got to have God intervene and deal with us, he declared. Gordon Robertson, son of televangelist Pat Robertson and president and CEO of the Christian Broadcasting Network, made a televised appearance expressing concern about the sin of racism that is still in our land. Robertson strongly implied that the pandemic, riots, wildfires, and major hurricanes were punishments from God because we still have the curse of racism. Robertson contended that despite all of the progress on the issue of race, American churches have a long way to go when it comes to reaching out to and embracing racial minorities. He lamented that 11 a.m. on Sunday mornings is still the most segregated hour in American culture. Lets start a great revival where we can have Heaven right here on Earth. In Heaven, theres no racial divide. Every language, every tongue, every people are all gathered together worshipping the King of Kings, worshipping the lamb, he explained. Robertson closed by urging churches across the U.S. to integrate and praying that the country becomes one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Bishop Harry Jackson, senior pastor of Hope Christian Church in Beltsville, Maryland, proclaimed that four major problems on the horizon in the U.S. illustrate a need to repent. First is COVID, which is like a plague of the Old Testament, he said. Next, he listed racial division, the #MeToo movement, and a class problem as the other challenges facing the U.S. God wants to heal Americas race problem and release us into a unity, the like of which weve never seen, Jackson maintained. Dr. Ben Carson, secretary of Housing and Urban Development, told attendees that your history is what gives you your identity. Your identity is what gives you your beliefs. I believe that this is a great time for us to reevaluate who we are as a nation, he said. It is time for us to bow our heads and return to God. Leading the crowd in prayer, Carson said: We have moved far, far away from those Judeo-Christian values that encouraged us to be kind to our fellow man, to help the poor, to develop our God-given talents to the utmost so that we become valuable to the people around us. We want to return to that once again. Its not necessary for us to be enemies and to be hateful and spiteful, but to be loving and kind as You are to us." Carson acknowledged that the U.S. has made horrible mistakes over the years before asserting that we dont bury those mistakes, we learn from those mistakes. ... The New Testament makes a lot more sense when you understand the Old Testament. The keynote speaker at The Return, Messianic Jewish Rabbi Jonathan Cahn, connected the turmoil unfolding in the U.S. to the challenges faced by ancient Israel when it rebelled against God: 400 years ago, another civilization was begun, formed and molded for the purposes of the creator. After mentioning that the Mayflower Compact signed by Americas earliest settlers was written for the glory of God and the advancement of the faith, Cahn recalled how puritan leader John Winthrop issued a prophetic vision of the new civilization he would help to plant. Winthrop envisioned the U.S. as a city on a hill, the eyes of the world would be upon it and if it followed the ways of God, then God would bless it and make it the most prosperous, the most powerful, the most secure, the most exalted of civilizations. While Cahn explained that Winthrops vision came true, he spoke of a prophetic warning from the puritan leader that should the city on a hill turn away from the God of its foundation, then the judgments that fell upon Israel would likewise fall upon it. Cahn recounted how the people of ancient Israel drove God out of their hearts, out of their government, out of their ways and lives, out of their education of their children, out of the public square, (and) out of their culture. America has likewise fallen in the midst of our blessings and prosperity. We, too, have turned away from the God of our foundation. Weve estranged ourselves from him. We drove God out of our hearts, out of our government, out of our ways, out of our laws, out of the education of our children, out of the public squares, out of our businesses, out of our media, out of our culture, (and) out of our lives. Cahn used his address to decry the embrace of abortion and the LGBT movement. To shed the blood of an unborn baby is to murder a human life. ... Our collective hands are covered with blood. 60 million Americans have been murdered. Instead of weeping over that fact, we go still farther, he said, citing the gruesome law passed in New York state that allowed abortions up until the moment of birth. Cahn concluded that the city on a hill has grown dark, its light has dimmed and is in danger of going out. Cahn lamented the fact that the rainbow has come to represent the LGBT movement. The rainbow does not belong to man, the rainbow belongs to God. It was not given as an emblem to the pride of man, it was given as a sign to the mercy of God. The Word of God stands against all hatred, all oppression, and all injustice against any person, people, nation, color, race, or group, Cahn added. After signaling his agreement with the statement that black lives matter, he slammed those who say nothing of all the black lives killed in this land before they can even breathe their first breath and the abortion clinics strategically placed in black neighborhoods. WATERLOO REGION By now, most people have heard the Region of Waterloo is updating its Regional Official Plan, the document that guides how the community will take shape and where growth will be directed, looking as far ahead as 2051. Part of this process is updating the Greenlands network, the part of the regional official plan that governs the regions natural heritage, or natural areas. Two main aspects are going into this update: including local community feedback, and ensuring the region follows the latest provincial natural heritage and water resource regulations. The first step to incorporating community feedback is gathering it. For this, the regions planners are asking to hear more about the communitys environmental priorities. The main question is asking people about the goals of environmental planning and what is important to our community, says Kate Hagerman, manager of environmental planning and sustainability at the Region of Waterloo. The region has put out a survey on its Engage digital platform asking respondents to give feedback on the aspects of environmental planning they value and care for most. They also want to hear ideas and feedback. The survey will be available until Nov. 2. The second aspect of the Greenlands network policy review is that it must match the provinces updated growth plan and water resource system policies. The provinces growth plan contains the natural heritage system framework, completed in 2017. The province has mapped out a natural heritage system for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, showing which areas are considered core natural areas and the corresponding linkage corridors between them. The mapping is based on conservation science that emphasizes connectivity: the environment can only perform its irreplaceable ecosystem services like carbon sequestration, groundwater recharge, habitat provision, or flood regulation, if they are connected. Municipalities have the opportunity to offer feedback on this mapping but will be required to develop policies to maintain, restore, or enhance the diversity and connectivity of the system. Hagerman is not worried about incorporating the provinces system, because the Region of Waterloo has been building natural heritage policy emphasizing connectivity since the 1970s. We have been known as an innovative and strong community in terms of our processes and tools for protecting our natural heritage, Hagerman said. Overall were proud of our work. The regions planners must also make sure they follow provincial guidelines on water resource systems by identifying, protecting and enhancing hydrologic features at a watershed level. Since most of the regions water is sourced from aquifers, water protection has also been a priority historically. This past Sunday, as a float plane made its final descent over the glassy waters and green treetops of Haida Gwaii off the B.C. coast, Israa El Issa looked out the window and was overcome with emotion. I saw so much beauty, she told the Star in Arabic. I felt a sense of happiness Ive never felt before. While access to the chain of rugged islands known for their thousand-year-old trees and ancient villages has been severely restricted due to COVID-19, federal officials and the council of the local Haida Nation granted entry to El Issa, her husband Mostafa Ali, and their three children, Sandy, 5, Hasan, 3, and Talia, 2 Syrian refugees who had been sponsored by a group of private citizens in Haida Gwaii. As their plane sputtered to a stop near a flock of turnstone birds at the dock in the Village of Queen Charlotte, their new home couldnt have been more different from the one theyd left. After fleeing war-ravaged Syria in 2013, the couple both originally from Aleppo started a family in Lebanon only to see it rocked by civil unrest. Among those greeting them at the dock Sunday were Beng Favreau, a lead organizer of Operation Refugees Haida Gwaii, the sponsoring group, and Aya Sirhan, 13, and Alaa Sirhan, 10, members of another Syrian family that had previously been sponsored by Haida Gwaii residents in 2016. They acted as interpreters. Thank you, thank you, thank you, were so happy were here, Favreau recalled El Issa saying as they stepped off the plane bearing colourful pieces of luggage. Im so happy were safe. Favreau said seeing them brought an immediate sense of relief. Their arrival capped a two-year sponsorship process filled with logistical hurdles, fundraisers and endless streams of paperwork along with the backdrop of a global health crisis in recent months. Oh my goodness, I had a sigh of relief when I saw them yesterday. It took me two years to get this application from paper to seeing them in person, she said. Because of travel restrictions, the number of resettled refugees and protected persons in Canada saw an 83 per cent decline in the early stages of the pandemic 2,685 from April to June, compared to 14,570 during the same period last year. The family of five were supposed to have arrived in Canada in mid-March. But two days before their scheduled flight out of Lebanon, the airport shut down and flights were cancelled. I was crying a lot, and I was very tired mentally and emotionally, El Issa recalled. I would get angry and I felt suffocated because things were delayed. The family finally learned in early August that their flights had been rebooked. I couldnt wait until the day came that we would leave, she said. When we were in Lebanon, Id tell (my children) daily that were going to Canada, and that theyll study there and learn English. All three of them were very excited. When we finally got on the plane, none of them were afraid, because we really tried to prepare them. They were excited the whole way and kept saying, We want to see our home. Favreau said she couldnt have pulled it off without the help of other volunteers. The familys journey started in Beirut last Wednesday. After a four-hour layover in Frankfurt, Germany, they flew to Vancouver. After spending a night in Vancouver, they flew to Prince Rupert, where they had to spend two nights due to bad weather. Haida Gwaii resident Judy Whaley, who used to live in Prince Rupert, contacted a local hotel to arrange accommodations. A housekeeper there was part of a Syrian family that Whaley had previously helped to sponsor. That family brought over home-cooked food. Here in the North, we have those connections with each other. We have a closer community, where we all work together and help each other out, Whaley said. Erfan Zahrai, a professor at Coast Mountain College who used to live in Lebanon, also came over to greet the family at the hotel. He recalled that Ali, a mechanic, was curious to know where all the Mercedes were. In Lebanon, all the taxis are Mercedes, he said. I said if you go to Vancouver youll see a lot of Mercedes, he chuckled. Overall, the family was in good spirits. My first impression about this family was theyre ready to conquer anything. Theyre so motivated to begin a new life after the difficulties they had in Lebanon, Zahrai said. Favreau said she was a bit worried how the family would handle the final leg of their journey from Prince Rupert to Haida Gwaii on a small float plane. She said she told El Issa to imagine being on an amusement-park ride. Whatever jitters she may have had seemed to dissipate in the air. Her brother, who lives in Prince George, B.C., and also came to Canada as a refugee, had sent her pictures of Haida Gwaii. But seeing it in person was something else. When I saw it from the airplane, the colours were so beautiful and vibrant and the ocean was beautiful. I was so happy on that plane. As Favreau drove the family to their new home a cosy, fully furnished two-bedroom ground-floor suite located near a creek to begin their 14-day quarantine, she said, a calmness settled over their faces. When they walked into their new place, they were greeted by balloons, a welcome cake and a box of chocolates. The children started running around excitedly, figuring out who would sleep in which bed. Community members had donated an assortment of toys Play-Doh, stuffed toys and Lego to keep them busy. Later, one of the other Syrian families in town brought over a platter of rice, baked chicken, salad and Syrian sweets. All they could say was Wow, and they kept thanking us, Favreau recalled. Favreau said one thing shes come to appreciate from helping sponsor two refugee families is how much theyve given in return. Theyre sharing their culture, theyre sharing their stories, and were sharing the Canadian stories its a two-way street, when you think about it, she said. Its not just bringing people in and integrating them to the Canadian culture. We have to be open to who they are and their culture. Favreau noted that the children from the first Syrian family she helped sponsor call her Nana. Reflecting on her familys journey Monday, El Issa said, Nobody wants to leave their home country, but we were forced to do so. I saw so much death in front of me and my mental health wasnt great. We cried a lot, and we saw bodies of casualties daily. An airstrike hit our neighbours home and that affected us a lot. Our lives were intolerable there, she said. Looking to the future, El Issa said shes excited to learn English and for her kids to have a great education. Im excited for them to have a nice life thats not like anything we went through during the war. I want them to study and be successful in the future. The most important thing is that theyll live in peace, and not experience anything that I experienced, like the death and airstrikes. I want them to have a peaceful life. With files from Nicholas Keung Read more about: UK chancellor Rishi Sunak ahead of his speech to the 2020 Conservative party conference. Photo: REUTERS/John Sibley/Pool UK chancellor Rishi Sunak has told the Conservative conference his party will always balance the books, signalling plans to curb public borrowing and debt levels. Sunak began by reeling off a list of the governments measures to shore up the economy against the coronavirus crisis, including job support schemes, tax cuts and business loans. But he stopped short of unveiling fresh policies despite the high profile of the set-piece speech at the Conservatives conference, held virtually for the first time. He said on Monday that supporting jobs and firms remained his priority, but issued another warning no chancellor could protect every job, and that there were hard choices to come on public finances. Much of his speech emphasised measures to help people into new jobs, such as training and apprenticeships, marking a shift in focus from earlier efforts to save existing jobs. Sunak called the furlough scheme, introduced earlier this year, the first of its kind in British history, protecting millions of families incomes. Such interventions meant the government ceased to be distant and abstract during the crisis, he added. But he has resisted calls to extend it despite huge political pressure to curb rising unemployment, announcing a less generous replacement scheme last month. READ MORE: UK government pledges 238m for CV and work advice as unemployment grows Sunak also spoke of the importance of personal responsibility as well as community, free enterprise and the nobility of work, stressing such values lay behind the governments crisis response. The chancellor then pledged: Through careful management of our economy, this Conservative government will always balance the books. He said the government would bring borrowing and debt levels back under control over an unspecified medium-term. Doing so was a sacred responsibility to future generations, he added. The governments spending plans have forced the Treasury to ramp up borrowing. Official figures last month showed government debt stood at 2tn ($2.6tn) in late August, 1.9% larger than the entire UK economys output. Story continues READ MORE: UK government borrowing at highest in decades It marked the highest debt-to-GDP ratio since 1961, as growth plummeted at the fastest quarterly rate on record when the virus and lockdown hamstrung the economy earlier this year. But with borrowing costs at ultra-low levels and the economy still reeling from the crisis, some economists argue continued stimulus is more important than reining in borrowing. Prime minister Boris Johnson had also acknowledged there would be tough times ahead in the jobs market on Monday. It comes amid uncertainty for thousands of staff at Cineworld, with the company announcing the temporary closure of its UK cinemas on Monday morning. The government has come under enormous pressure to do more to stave off job losses as the crisis drags on and the furlough scheme is wound down. Sunak and work and pensions secretary Therese Coffey promised 238m of new support for jobseekers on Monday. Support will include advice on growing sectors, CVs and interviews, according to the department for work and pensions (DWP). It will be targeted at anyone out of work for more than three months. The furlough scheme wage grants will run out this month, and many firms and experts have warned a replacement job support scheme is not generous enough to ensure employers kept staff. READ MORE: UK economy 'resilient' but job losses rising for seventh month in a row Labours shadow chancellor Anneliese Dodds said Sunak blew his chance to get a grip on Britains jobs crisis by not announcing further measures on Monday. The chancellor just spoke for 10 minutes, but he had nothing new to say. No new targeted support for millions facing the furlough cliff edge. Nothing new for the self-employed. Nothing for those excluded so far. Carys Roberts, executive director of the left-wing Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) think tank, said debt reduction would require tax hikes, with public services cut to the bone already after a decade of austerity. Sunaks pledge that the government would stand between the people and danger would also require more spending to boost Britains inadequate welfare system, Roberts added. This is increasingly the elephant in the room, she said. The Joe Biden-Kamala Harris campaign is making a new pitch to win voters over in South Texas, dispatching Harriss husband Doug Emhoff for a pair of campaign events on Monday. Emhoff will first head to the Texas border, where he will campaign in Edinburg, then head to San Antonio. While its not Biden or Harris themselves, the effort to focus more attention on South Texas speaks to a larger Democratic plan to spend more time cultivating votes in South Texas one of the bluest regions in the state, but one known for some of the lowest voter turnout in the state. By starting in Edinburg, Emhoff will be in Hidalgo County where Hillary Clinton easily won in 2016, but the turnout was just 51 percent compared to the statewide average of nearly 60 percent. Emhoff, 55, will be in Hidalgo County at 12:30 p.m. at the Memorial Event Center for a voter registration drive. Then at 3:20 p.m., he is expected to be in San Antonio touring a food bank. Emhoff, an attorney, and Harris married in 2014. IN-DEPTH: How the biggest Democratic stronghold in Texas could cost Joe Biden a win here The Biden campaign has tried to put more time and resources into South Texas to boost turnout. Bidens Texas state director Rebecca Acuna is from Laredo and the campaign is holding dozens of campaign events in the region to boost their profile. With many expect the closest presidential election in Texas in decades, Democrats are convinced a turnout boost in South Texas could determine who wins the state. Texas polls have shown Biden and President Donald Trump in a virtual dead heat. Trumps campaign is also trying to work the Texas border. On Friday, Donald Trump Jr. was originally scheduled to attend a get-out-the-vote event in McAllen, which is also in Hidalgo County. That event was postponed after President Trump was diagnosed with COVID-19. Donald Trump Jr. was in close contact with the president and White House staff who have also been infected. KNOW THE CANDIDATES: Houston Chronicle 2020 Voter Guide The Trump campaign has also been trying to boost its presence in San Antonio. Last month, the Trump campaign bus rolled through San Antonio with Trumps Texas chairman, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. Trump won Texas by 9 percentage points over Hillary Clinton in 2016, but he carried just 28 percent of Latinos nationwide. And he performed poorly in Bexar County, winning just 40.7 percent of the vote the worst showing for a Republican in the county since the 1960s. With more than a dozen California wineries damaged and even more threatened by smoke tainted grapes, this season might prove to be calamitous for the wine industry. In this episode, find out which wineries are impacted by the fires, the economic toll of the pandemic combined with fire season, and what the future of Wine Country might look like as climate change makes fires more frequent and more intense. Listen to the episode by clicking on the player above or the badge for your favorite app below, and scroll down to read a transcript of the interview. Here is a transcript of Soleil Ho and Justin Phillips' interview with Esther Mobley, edited and condensed for clarity. The interview was conducted on September 30. Soleil: So, we're recording this episode on Wednesday, Sept. 30th, 2020, and it's already been one hell of a week. Esther, thank you for joining us at this last minute. I know you've been so busy. We've all been so busy! Can you give us a sense of what's happening: Where are we right now? Where are the fires? Where do they start? What's being affected? Esther: Well, I think there's what, like, 27 fires simultaneously in California right now? But the one we're talking about, the Glass Fire, started early in the wee hours of Sunday morning. It's Wednesday now, and it's burned almost 50,000 acres. It's into Sonoma County. It kind of moved east to west through Napa and then jumped into Sonoma County. As you mentioned, a number of wineries have been damaged or destroyed, certainly more than what happened to Napa in 2017 during those famous Wine Country fires. JUSTIN: I remember, Esther. Maybe you might have been about to head on a vacation or something in 2017, and when all of these fires kind of kicked off and Wine Country really was being impacted, you came in that morning and absolutely crushed a perspective piece on what was happening because everyone was like, 'Oh my God, get Esther to do this real quick!' And I thought that was amazing. But I always think about that because it was an emotional day. You know, when you look at all of the fires that you have to cover right now, are you a veteran at this stuff now? Is it still the same kind of toll? Esther: Well, we have colleagues who have done much more extensive wildfire reporting on the kind of general assignment, non-wine beat than I have. But, yeah, the story of wildfires over the last few years has in many ways been a wine industry story. And the 2017 fires were just these explosive fires in both Napa and Sonoma counties. In 2019, we saw the Kincade Fire, in Alexander Valley, in Sonoma County and then in August last month, we had major fires in multiple wine regions all at once in Napa, in Sonoma, in the Santa Cruz Mountains, in Monterey. And, you know, to some extent, whenever these wildfires happen, there's a kind of set of questions that always come up for wine, right? The question of smoke, the question of our farmworkers and other workers being asked to continue to do work outdoors in smoky conditions. Will the grapes all be ruined? Will the wine be ruined? If people can't get through evacuations when they get back into the winery, the question of will tourism now be decimated? There's this perception around the world that these places are in ruins and no one's ever going to want to come back to have a vacation in Napa Valley. So we go through these questions every time, we try to understand the stories of the individual people who have lost livelihoods and homes and work. And in many cases, these things that are like family history. I mean, I think often these are multigenerational family businesses, and there's so many historic buildings that have been lost this week. But it's like every year this happens again or every month this happens again. It's like the kind of severity, the extreme nature of the questions just gets compounded. If this happens once every several years, it's like, "Napa strong! Sonoma strong!" And then if this is happening multiple times in a year on this catastrophic level. ... We're still in the midst of it. It's hard to kind of take the bird's eye view right now, but it just seems like these are these major moments of reckoning for what's a statewide $40 million industry. SOLEIL: OK, so California winemakers have spent so much time trying to turn California wine regions into globally recognized places that deserve attention, right, for their wine and for their vintages. And it doesn't seem like other wine regions around the world have to deal with wildfires as much or at all. I mean, maybe that's my misperception. But I guess my question is, how does this affect the sort of global perception of California wine? Esther: There are other wine regions in the world like Spain and Portugal, for instance, that have wine regions that are really vulnerable to wildfire. But, I think just like California in general, I think it's becoming uniquely associated with wildfire. It's a big problem. You know, wineries don't open and close as easily as, for instance, a restaurant does. But there were a few businesses that went out of business citing the downturn in tourism due to perceptions around the fires. So Shed in Healdsburg, that really ambitious restaurant farmstead concept, the Jimtown store and Alexander Valley. This kind of old-time cafe general store type place closed after the Kincade fire. And I remember after the 2017 fires getting emails, messages from people I know from far away being like, "Oh, I'd been thinking about coming to Napa and Sonoma next spring, but is there anything left?" I mean that became its own problem, that people really had this misplaced idea about what it was like. And we can talk about the feasibility of rebuilding some of these communities and how we do that and whether we need to have a kind of longer term reconsideration of what we call it now, the wildland urban interface. But in the short term, these places bounce back. They're resilient. They rebuild. You know, Coffey Park in Santa Rosa is rebuilt. And so it's really and within a few months, really, places are kind of back in business and seeming somewhat normal, although you do still see a blackened hillside here and there. JUSTIN: I remember going to Coffey Park after that, after the fire blew through there. And I remember because we're writing about these food businesses across the street that were still open, and they were feeding construction workers and families that were just coming in to see what their properties were. But that makes me think of the lasting effect that these fires have. And I guess this is both like a consumer and a wine novice question, but can you talk about the effect that these fires have on the taste of wine that comes out of wine country? Esther: This is the big issue. I feel like before these fires broke out, this was all I had been writing about for a month just based on the fires that happened in August. Smoke taint is a concern. What happens is wildfire smoke, when it lingers in the air for a while, can impart certain compounds into grapes that are still hanging on the vine. And those are impossible to get rid of. Then, wine that you make out of those grapes tastes smoky and often not in a good way. Like, you know, some wines taste kind of pleasantly smoky, but this is like ashtray charcoal. You don't want to go there. The problem is, it's very poorly understood science. We know there's like a handful of compounds that are responsible for these smoke taint things, and those can be tested for. There's probably a lot of other compounds that the scientific community still hasn't even identified. Part of the issue is they can exist in free or bound states in the grapes and also in the wine. So, there may be a lot of them that just have yet to release and become volatilized and reveal themselves. One thing is like when a wine is fermenting, some of these can be released, these compounds, so you might not be able to taste or perceive it in the grapes. But then during the fermentation, when it's becoming wine, suddenly they appear. They even think that they're enzymes in the human mouth that activate these compounds. So, literally, you wouldn't be able to know it's there until you're tasting it. SOLEIL: Oh, my God. Esther: Yeah. It's a big problem. And the kind of main lab that does this sort of testing in Northern California has been totally backlogged because there's been just this unprecedented need for smoke taint testing this year, because the fires that came in August were not only so early so that almost nothing had been picked yet, but also, they were just so geographically widespread, it wasn't confined to one little area. For instance, the Kincade Fire. OK, here's this one little region. This was all over Northern and Central California. People are having to wait more than a month to get test results back. And then, as we said, those test results still may not even tell you the full picture. So this has become this totally hot button issue. Researchers and labs in California are working a lot with people in Australia who obviously have some experience dealing with this sort of stuff. They have research institutes that have been invested a lot into learning about this, but it really is a big issue. And then on top of it, there's this question kind of like a corollary to what we're talking about before related to tourism. This perception problem and the wineries are so concerned that if people just know there were smoke concerns in 2020, that everyone's going to think all 2020 California wine is s, when in reality, what's going to happen is wineries just won't make or won't release wine that is smoking compromised. It's not like they're going to put a bunch of smoky wine out into there. They would just not make it. A number of wineries have said they're not making any wine or they're making only very little wine this year because of those smoke concerns. And of course, there's little pockets, geographic pockets, that have not been as severely affected by smoke. We know just from living in the Bay Area that it can vary so much by the neighborhood you're in, whether the air is smoky. And then people who picked their grapes really, really early in August are definitely feeling happy that they did that, because if you got those grapes off the vine before those fires started around mid-August, you were in luck. Nina Riggio / Special to The Chronicle SOLEIL: You've written before about grape surplus, too, because people are buying less wine right now as well. What happens to all those grapes if they're smoke tainted or they're just not sellable? What do they do? Esther: Excellent question. Sometimes they literally just drop them to the ground, but it all depends. This is something I don't even know the full extent of, but insurance has a lot to do with it. Sometimes if a winery who's contracted to buy grapes from a farmer says we're not buying the grapes, then the grower can only collect on the insurance if those grapes aren't sold to someone. A lot of what happens is given that a lot of people are making the wine and hoping for the best, but not knowing whether smoke's going to be a concern. And sometimes the winery's insurance will require them to, quote unquote, destroy the wine, which basically means ship it off to get distilled into neutral alcohol. So, there's a lot of neutral grape brandy that gets put out there. Like, you know, some of it just becomes industrial ethanol, basically. I wish I could tell you about all these creative uses I'm hearing about for unpicked or unusable wine grapes. There was a very small scale thing where St. George Spirits, a great distillery in Alameda, was making grappa that was kind of deliberately smoky out of grapes from 2019. SOLEIL: OK. So you're saying this might be a good year for, like, Everclear? Esther: Yes, exactly. If you want to make a bunch of slightly smoky tasting jungle juice ... JUSTIN: In a normal year, you know, there would be a college kid thing. But we also have the pandemic. Esther: Oh, my God. There are no frat parties this year! No jungle juice? Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. JUSTIN: No jungle juice. [All laughing.] Aw, man. So a quick thing while we're on this consumer angle, just to explain it simply, Esther, what does this mean for the shelves, like what does wildfire season mean for people being able to go get Two-Buck Chuck or some s like that? Like, what does that mean? Esther: Well, the wineries that have been affected so far in the Glass Fire are pretty high-end wineries in these areas of northern Napa Valley. A lot of them did have wine inventory on-site that has been destroyed, but almost everyone keeps some wine inventory offsite in some kind of warehouse-type situation. So, for instance, this morning I was just talking to the winemaker at Cain Winery, which I love their wines up on Spring Mountain, and they had all of their 2019 and 2020 vintages at the winery, which has burned and been completely destroyed. But everything else was off-site and they'll be able to sell those normally. We'll see where things go. Both because of the kind of nature of the high end nature of the winery that it's so far affected, and because even though more than a dozen wineries destroyed sounds like a lot, it's really a very, very tiny percentage of the wineries. I mean, there are more than a thousand wineries in Sonoma counties. I don't think it's really going to have an effect on the supply chain. And even those wineries have a lot of a lot of inventory off-site. The big industrial wineries can get pretty creative if they need to keep stocking to back check. A lot of them like back Two-Buck Chuck, for instance, is a kind of amalgamation of wine that's bought secondhand bulk market. And it's not necessarily dependent on this one specific place. They can mix and match, grab different things from the spice rack to make the stew every year. And people can even blend in different vintages to stretch out what they have from a specific year. So we'll see. I mean, again, Soleil, you alluded to this earlier, but part of the problem is a lot of farmers who are getting their grapes rejected by wineries who are citing smoke taint is the reason I suspect that smoke taint is like this convenient excuse for the wineries who are actually trying to cut back on their production because they have excess inventory because wine sales are slowing down. JUSTIN: Interesting. Esther: So, the smoke taint thing, in a way, there may be some ulterior motives for people who are actually trying to kind of fix a supply and demand issue that's going on. SOLEIL: Wow. So sneaky. Esther: It's hard to kind of substantiate, but almost every person on the kind of agricultural side of this that I'm talking to says that they suspect that is going on. SOLEIL: Speaking of that, what is going on with the people who have been picking the grapes? There's certainly a lot of dramatic images, right, in the past few months of people working in fields and the many agricultural sort of businesses in California while the skies are red or orange. But, as this becomes a repeat problem in Wine Country, what is it like to be a farmworker or a vineyard worker? Esther: Well, it's interesting, I think. It's kind of an impossible choice for a lot of these agricultural workers, because it's like, do you work in unsafe conditions or do you not work? And driving around Napa Valley yesterday, there was not a picking crew in sight. And this is a time of year when you would normally expect to see the fields full, especially in the earlier morning, with workers. So, I think actually the smoke concerns now are probably making a lot of wineries do less picking like a lot of the wineries I was talking to yesterday were like, "We're done for the year. There's not much more we want to be able to get off the vines." So that's good from a health perspective for the workers who would otherwise be asked to be outside. But then again, these workers also are going without paychecks. So there are efforts to provide financial relief. The Napa County Farm Bureau has just announced some help for people who have been affected by the Glass Fire. There's a number of support services throughout Napa and Sonoma counties, but it's really not a good situation for those people. Samuel Corum/Getty SOLEIL: Can you speak a little bit more broadly about the outlook? If this is going to happen again or worse? What can winemakers and people up there do to mitigate the damage? Esther: This is like the million, or rather like the hundred-trillion, dollar question for California. People are talking a lot about defensible space, about creating firebreaks of course, controlled burns being a really important thing. And there's so much thought being put into, before the white people settled California, how did the people who lived here before treat the land? How can we kind of try to learn something that it took people hundreds of years to unlearn? I think the other one interesting thing that's come up a lot, though, is the importance of animals and grazing. Essentially, you have these beautiful swaths of open land and Napa County especially has such tight regulations on how land can be developed and keeping things open and not cutting down trees, very strict environmental regulations that exist for really good reasons. But they may also present their own issues with fire safety. If you have animals out there that are grazing and keeping the brush low, that may help. Also, we know that animals grazing have other benefits for the land related to carbon sequestration. I've heard people ask if we can just release all the cattle from the feed houses and let them graze. It accomplishes two things, but it's really complicated because, for instance, organically farmed vineyards are more likely to burn than non-organically farmed vineyards because they have so much happening. There's not Roundup, so there might be weeds running wild. They've got big high grasses of cover crop between the vines. And so it's like all these people who have put so much thought into there, you know, doing regenerative farming and keeping things really responsible and beautiful are in a way more vulnerable to fire through their individual vineyard. So, I don't think anyone has really good answers for a lot of these questions. The worst part about it, too, as we know now, is just because you had fire come to your neighborhood within the last couple of years doesn't mean you're immune. JUSTIN: So, Esther, one of the things about these wildfire stories, too, about the coverage itself, is the imagery. And it makes me wonder, when you have these iconic wineries that burn down, what goes into being able to rebuild those properties? Like, is it a complicated process? Is it a simple process? Esther: Well, at the beginning it is super messy. I was at Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga yesterday where the main castle was fine, but the farmhouse, it's a big stone building that had a lot of their wine stored in it, a lot of offices, a lot of winemaking areas and equipment, is just like this huge mass. They're forklifting debris out of, you know, these blown-through second-story windows. There's thousands of bottles of wine that are kind of blackened and covered in this dust now and fallen over, and it's just like there's so much to do. But, everyone I've been talking to pretty much has been saying they plan to rebuild and building anything in Napa's agricultural areas is very complicated. As I mentioned before, they have very, very strict environmental regulations. Getting permits to build buildings and wineries is extraordinarily complicated. I mean, I think it's a little easier when you lose your building due to fire, but so many of the structures that have burned in the last few days are like from the 1800s. They're these beautiful, early buildings of Napa's modern winemaking history, its very first moments and these old stone buildings and old barns, and you don't get those back. You don't get the history back and the kind of legacy of wine and families that have come through and had those properties. So it's a real loss. Signorello, which was the most famous winery that was destroyed in 2017 in Napa. There was that super iconic image of it in flames during the Atlas Fire. I mean, I don't even know if they're finished rebuilding, but like within a year they had like a double wide on the property that they were doing tastings and they have this kind of makeshift new tasting room that it's not simple and it's not quick. I mean, it takes years, certainly, to get a new structure back up and running. SOLEIL: So, Esther, both you and Justin actually have been talking to people up in Wine Country, restaurateurs, winemakers, just getting a sense of where people are at psychologically and if they're optimistic even. I would love to hear from both of you just about what you've been hearing. Esther: Justin, what have you been hearing? JUSTIN: We've been extensively covering the Meadowood situation and it's how do I put this delicately? It's really painful in the beginning. Like, a lot of people are exasperated. It's very much a, "Here we go again." Because if you think about like in the last, I don't know, 18 months, we had PG&E power outages. We've had fires. We had a pandemic. And, you know, especially for restaurants in an industry that's barely had their heads above water for the most part. Before all of this, like they were surviving through a pandemic, thinking that they were seeing a little bit of light, some kind of return to normalcy. And then you have these kinds of things happen. And it reminds you that you can lose everything really quickly. There's kind of a resignation to the fact, and then a "wait and see." If they're lucky enough for it to not have happened at their property, you know, they're still saddened by it because they can see themselves in that other business. So, it's a lot of pain right now. I think that is the main thing. A long-winded answer to say people are very unhappy. Esther: I try to never lose sight of the fact that, of course, wineries are an important part of our world here in the Bay Area and for economic, cultural, etc. reasons. But people are losing homes and a lot of these wineries have money behind them. And that's something I think it's important to keep a perspective on. I mean, I felt more emotional than some of the people I've been speaking with have seemed to be, like I'm crying sometimes when some of these people are telling me what happened, especially if it's a place I feel like I have a connection with and I've been to a number of times. This morning, as I was speaking with Chris Howell, the winemaker at Cain, which I mentioned earlier, their 1871 barn, and then also their main winery is gone. He, I think, was still in this kind of shock. He certainly sounded somber, but he said a few things that I just found really poignant and helpful. Wine is about place, wine tastes the way it does because it comes from a specific place. And people go to great lengths to make wine from one area that's meaningfully different from wine that comes from like 2 feet away from it. And these places aren't gone. Buildings are gone. In some cases, business inventory is gone, but the places remain. Vines are so much more resilient than any structures that we build as humans. And that stays. That's not going away. And these wineries, even when so much history is erased by a fire, they still have this land and the wine will continue to speak of that. So I found that comforting notion. SOLEIL: I think that's a great note to end on. Thank you so much for being on the show with us and sharing your expertise. Esther: Thanks for having me. JUSTIN: Amazing as always. Esther: I love you guys. And you guys are just killing it with this podcast. And I know it's not an easy thing to talk on to. All that you guys already do in your actual normal jobs. It's been awesome. As chief risk officer, Lambert's responsibilities include a broad portfolio of functions designed to maintain the integrity of the company's continued efforts to identify, monitor and mitigate key risks and be accountable for enabling the efficient and effective governance of significant risks, and related opportunities. Since joining BancorpSouth as an accountant in 2006, Lambert has held various management positions, including director of treasury analytics, chief data analytics officer and his current role of chief risk officer. Prior to joining BancorpSouth, he was an investment portfolio manager. "We are excited to welcome Ty to our Management Committee," said Dan Rollins, BancorpSouth's chairman and chief executive officer. "In his nearly 15 years with BancorpSouth, Ty has become an integral part of our team. We're confident his addition to our management team will assist our efforts to balance risk management, protect our company and our customers and position us for long-term success." Lambert earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi, and a master's degree in business administration from the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi. He currently serves on the advisory board for the Center for Financial Professionals. About BancorpSouth Bank BancorpSouth Bank (NYSE: BXS) is headquartered in Tupelo, Mississippi, with approximately $23 billion in assets. BancorpSouth operates approximately 310 full-service branch locations as well as additional mortgage, insurance, and loan production offices in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas, including an insurance location in Illinois. BancorpSouth is committed to a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion in both its workplace and communities. To learn more, visit our Community Commitment page at www.bancorpsouth.com ; "Like" us on Facebook; follow us on [email protected]; or connect with us through LinkedIn. SOURCE BancorpSouth Bank Travel stocks head into the new week on two different tracks. Cruise line stocks ended last week under pressure after a White House meeting with cruise CEOs was postponed following President Donald Trump's positive Covid test. Airline stocks ended higher after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi signaled additional government assistance for the beaten-down industry. Craig Johnson, chief market technician at Piper Sandler, told CNBC on Friday that one travel stock could signal downside for the sector. "We'll take a look at the chart of Booking, ticker BKNG. This is a stock here that looks to us like we violated the uptrend support line. And it looks like to us that this little relief rally we got right now would be a great opportunity to be shorting," Johnson said on "Trading Nation." Shorting sellers take a position betting that the price of the stock will fall. Booking has nearly 3% short interest as a percentage of its float. 'Can we even protest against this judgment?' 'We'll be called terrorists and told to go to Pakistan.' Victims of the horrific riots that engulfed Mumbai after the Babri Masjid demolition share their shock about the CBI court's September 30 verdict wioth Jyoti Punwani. IMAGE: The Babri Masjid in Ayodhya before it was demolished by Kar sevaks on December 6, 1992. Photograph: PTI Photo Victims of the Mumbai riots of 1992-1993 are tied willy-nilly to Ayodhya's Babri Masjid because the communal violence that affected them began hours after the Masjid was demolished on December 6, 1992. They haven't forgotten Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray's boast that his 'boys' brought down the masjid in Ayodhya. The Justice B N Srikrishna Commission of Inquiry into the riots blamed Bharatiya Janata Party leader Lal Kishenchand Advani's rath yatra for increasing communal tension in Mumbai in the period prior to the demolition. As one Mazgaon, south central Mumbai, victim testified before the Commission, 'Such was the atmosphere as a result of the VHP processions in October (1992), that people who would otherwise be friendly, became distant, and an atmosphere of distrust was growing.' Jogeshwari, north west Mumbai, resident Asif Sheikh (name changed) had heard Sadhvi Rithambara urge Hindus to break the Babri Masjid at a Delhi rally. His area was badly affected during the 1992-1993 riots and Shaikh was himself implicated in a rioting case. That trauma, coupled with keeping track of court dates for 22 years before being finally acquitted, never left Sheikh: He still wakes up at night hallucinating that mobs are chasing him. So when CBI Special Judge Surendra Kumar Yadav said on September 30, 2020 that some nameless 'anti-socials' had brought down the masjid, it became for Sheikh and other Mumbai victims a turning point: Loss of faith in the judiciary. Ironically, this faith had been revived by the Srikrishna Commission. After having been targeted by mobs and the police during the riots and then disbelieved by the authorities whom they turned to for help, these victims had given up on ever getting justice, till they found a sitting judge not only giving them a patient hearing but also vindicating what they narrated in his own report. "People would laugh at me for going on fighting in one court or another," said bank employee Farooq Mapkar hours after Wednesday's judgment. "But I would tell them I knew I'd get justice one day, I have faith in our courts. Today I can no longer say that." Mapkar, then only 27, was bending down for namaaz in Wadala's Hari Masjid in north central Mumbai on January 10, 1993 when he was shot in the shoulder from the back. The firing, ordered by then police sub-inspector Nikhil Kapse, killed six namaazis, four of them inside the masjid. The Srikrishna Commission recommended 'strict action' against Kapse for his 'unjustified firing (and) brutal and inhuman behaviour'. Mapkar had testified before the Commission and his struggle to get Kapse punished began the day this reporter handed him a copy of the Srikrishna Commission Report soon after it was tabled in August 1998. He was then 32 years old, and an accused in a case of rioting and attempt to murder -- charges levelled by the police on all those present inside the Masjid when the firing took place. All of them were acquitted after 13 years by the sessions court. IMAGE: Farooq Mapkar. IMAGE: Farooq Mapkar. Meanwhile, the Special Task Force, appointed by the Maharashtra government to act on the Justice Srikrishna Commission report, exonerated Kapse wthout giving his victims a hearing. Mapkar then filed his own complaint against Kapse, immediately inviting a fresh charge against him by the police. Acquitted of that too, Mapkar's day in court came in 2008 when the Bombay high court, acting on his petition, ordered the CBI to investigate the Hari Masjid firing, describing it as a case which 'affects the very soul of India'. Immediately, the then Congress-Nationalist Congress Party government in Maharashtra rushed to the Supreme Court in appeal. Describing the case as an 'extraordinary case', the apex court dismissed the appeal. In 2010, the Central Bureau of Investigation exonerated Kapse and closed the case, dismissing the consistent testimony by other Hari Masjid victims against Kapse as unreliable only because they had been framed by him in a rioting case. That's when Mapkar lost faith in the CBI. Wednesday's judgment only confirmed his worst suspicion: "Not just in my case, the CBI did nothing in the 2006 Malegaon bomb blasts case too, where Muslims were falsely accused. And now this Babri Masjid case. It seems the CBI is determined not to get justice for Muslims," said the 54 year old. For a decade now, Mapkar has been trying to challenge the CBI's closure in different magistrates' courts. Now he wonders if he should keep trying. "I doubt I'll get justice," he said for the first time in his 27-year-old fight. This isn't about one victim losing faith in courts. Mapkar is the only riot victim who is still fighting, making him the face of the Mumbai victims. When he gives up, it means the fight for justice for Mumbai's victims is over; the police and the State have triumphed. *** IMAGE: Abdullah Qasim. IMAGE: Abdullah Qasim. Unlike Mapkar, 40-year-old Abdullah Qasim lost faith after his very first attempt to get justice. Qasim was only 12 when his father, a madarsa teacher, became one of the eight innocents to die at the hands of then additional police commissioner Ram Dev Tyagi's 'commandos' during their raid of the Suleman Usman Bakery and adjacent madarsa. In 2001, when the STF charged Tyagi and 17 other policemen with murder for this raid, Qasim, then a final year student at the same madarsa, opposed the policemen's anticipatory bail applications as an intervenor. He lost because, as the special public prosecutor told the court, the government didn't want custody of these murder accused; it was concerned that their careers would be affected. That blow was bad enough, but it reflected on the government, not the court. Qasim's disillusionment with the judiciary came two years later, when Tyagi and nine other co-accused were discharged without a trial by the sessions court. When the trial of the remaining policemen began in 2019, Qasim refused to intervene. "Nothing will come out of it," he told this reporter dispiritedly, "except that old wounds will re-open." His scepticism got strengthened after he was summoned as a witness in the trial four times, and sent back every time without his testimony being recorded. The CBI court's September 30 judgment has put a seal on his disillusionment. "I had lost faith in the courts last November itself, when despite the Muslim side having stronger evidence, the Supreme Court gave the disputed land to those who'd demolished the mosque. The world was watching then. Compared to that, this acquittal is trivial." Qasim showed this reporter videos from a television news channel where two of the accused in the demolition case boasted as they came out of court, that they had gone to Ayodhya to demolish the Babri Masjid and had succeeded in doing so. "This is justice for Muslims," he commented dryly. Some Muslims felt that the accused were too old to be punished, said Qasim. "Ask those who had to grow up without their father or brother, those who lost their son in the riots, whether they'll agree with this," he said angrily. Photograph: Kamal Kishore/PTI Photo IMAGE: Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader Lal Kishenchand Advani, one of the accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case , along with his daughter Pratibha Advani and son Jayant Advani after being acquitted by the special CBI court, in New Delhi, September 30, 2020. Zaid and Hina (names changed) Qureshi lost both their father and their elder brother in January 1993 to a mob whom their mother identified as Shiv Sainiks in front of the Srikrishna Commission. The bodies of the two were never found. The siblings grew up seeing their mother struggle to educate them, often fainting in the heat as she went from house to house to teach the Quran, the only means of earning she was qualified for. Today, their lives are geared to supporting their mother, now a heart patient. Hina, who has a low-paid job, can't contemplate marriage. Zaid has gone from one job to another: In his desperation to start earning, he didn't wait to finish his graduation. The lockdown has left him jobless. Brother and sister hate talking about the past because it disturbs their mother, but the CBI judgment made them break their silence. "So nobody demolished the Babri Masjid?" asked Zaid bitterly. "Can we even protest against this judgment? We'll be called terrorists and told to go to Pakistan." "Now what will stop the BJP from demolishing the masjids in Kashi and Mathura?" wondered Hina. "That's what they'll focus on, instead of curbing the corona pandemic and providing jobs." Amid this cynicism, however, were voices of hope. IMAGE: Shaheen Kadri. IMAGE: Shaheen Kadri. Shaheen Kadri, whose home was destroyed and looted in the riots, had expected this acquittal after the Supreme Court's decision on Ayodhya last year. However, while she had no faith in the judiciary any more, this retired government officer had not lost her faith in two things. One was divine retribution. "Look at how Vajpayee spent his last years. Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi are in the political wilderness today." The other factor that kept her spirits up were the bonds between communities which she could witness in her own building . "My Hindu friends feel as helpless as we Muslims do. Do you think the woman with whom I shared my dabba for years wanted the Babri Masjid demolished?" Shivaji Khairnar certainly didn't. He was a child when the 1992-1993 riots engulfed his Jogeshwari neighbourhood; Muslims he'd played with were suddenly referred to as dushman". Last year, anticipating trouble before the Supreme Court verdict on Ayodhya, he got together with Muslims and other Hindus to form Baatein Aman Ki, a group that would dispel rumours and ward off communal trouble. "Fortunately, we didn't need to; there was no tension at all," he said, adding however, that the Supreme Court judgment had left him unhappy. "They should have told both parties to build a hospital on that land; not given the judgment they gave." Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com A protester holds a sign at an anti coronavirus lockdown protest in Old Market Square, Nottingham, England, after a range of new restrictions to combat the rise in coronavirus cases came into place in England, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020. (Danny Lawson/PA via AP) The British government faced huge questions Monday over its coronavirus testing system after a technical glitch led to the under-reporting of new infections over the past week or so, a failing that could have given fresh impetus to the current outbreak and ultimately to an uptick in deaths. Health Secretary Matt Hancock is due to make a statement to lawmakers later Monday after the opposition Labour Party asked the government to explain why the cases were not tabulated when they should have been. The latest problems to afflict the U.K.'s test and trace program emerged over the weekend when public health officials revealed that a total of 15,841 virus cases weren't tabulated from Sept. 25 to Oct. 2. The government said the "technical issue" was discovered Friday night and has now been resolved. The problem is thought to have stemmed from file limitations on the Excel spreadsheets that the government used for its test and trace program. The unreported cases were added to the government's daily new infections total over the weekend, boosting Saturday's number to 12,872 cases and Sunday's to 22,961. The number of new cases reported Monday fell sharply to 12,594, but given the adjustments related to the missing cases, it's difficult to make direct daily comparisons. Before the glitch was identified, there had been signs that the number of new infections had been leveling off around the 7,000 a day mark, which Britain hit the preceding four days. People ride a Northern Line train in London after the 10 p.m. curfew pubs and restaurants are subject to in order to combat the rise in coronavirus cases in England, on Saturday Oct. 3, 2020. (Victoria Jones/PA via AP) While all of those who tested positive were informed of the results, Public Health England said their contacts had not been traced. For the test-and-trace program to work well, contacts should be notified as soon as possible. So authorities' failure to inform people potentially exposed to the virus could lead to many more positive cases and the need for the government to impose further unwanted restrictions on everyday life. Jonathan Ashworth, Labour's spokesman on health issues, described the error as "shambolic'' and said the public "will be understandably alarmed.'' He said Hancock should tell lawmakers "what on Earth has happened, what impact it has had on our ability to contain this virus and what he plans to do to fix test and trace." The reporting error is just the latest problem with Britain's test and trace system, which is seen as crucial to slowing the spread of COVID-19 and reducing the need for further limits on social interaction. Lawmakers from all parties have previously criticized Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Conservative government for a shortage of testing capacity and delays in notifying people of their test results. Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson arrives at BBC Broadcasting House to appear on the Andrew Marr show, in London, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020. Johnson has defended his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, but warned that the country faces a "bumpy" winter ahead. Britain has Europe's highest coronavirus death toll, at more than 42,000, and Johnson's Conservative government is facing criticism from all sides. Opponents say tougher social restrictions are needed to suppress a second pandemic wave. (Victoria Jones/PA via AP) Paul Hunter, a professor in medicine at the University of East Anglia, said the news about the glitch is "very disappointing." "For the test, track and trace system to have a real impact on reducing transmission of COVID-19, it is essential that test results are communicated rapidly," he said. Like other countries in Europe, the U.K. has seen rising coronavirus infections over the past few weeks, which has prompted the government to announce a series of restrictions, both nationally and locally, to keep a lid on infections. They are largely centered on limiting the number of people allowed to gather together and putting a curfew on pubs in order to suppress the virus. The U.K. has Europe's highest virus-related death toll at more than 42,400. The government's chief scientific advisers warned two weeks ago that the number of new cases in the U.K. could be doubling every week or so if no action was taken and that the country could end up with 50,000 new cases a day by the middle of October, leading to hundreds of daily deaths a month later. Signage at an anti coronavirus lockdown protest in Old Market Square, Nottingham, England, after a range of new restrictions to combat the rise in coronavirus cases came into place in England, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020. (Danny Lawson/PA via AP) People enter Oxford Circus underground station in London on Friday, Oct. 2, 2020, after the 10 p.m. curfew that pubs and restaurants are subject to in order to combat the rise in coronavirus cases in England. (Kirsty O'Connor/PA via AP) A worker packs away chairs outside a bar in Soho, London, ahead of the 10pm curfew pubs and restaurants are subject to in order to combat the rise in coronavirus cases in England, Friday, Oct. 2, 2020. (Kirsty O'Connor/PA via AP) The confusion over the daily testing numbers only adds to the uncertainty over whether the restrictions are working in suppressing the virus. Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Minutos antes de las 10 a.m. partira de Lima un avion con destino a Santiago. Los pasajeros reanudan sus actividades laborales, de estudios o retornan a sus hogares. La reactivacion de la economia peruana esta en marcha. pic.twitter.com/i1eSCpOYOY FRISCO, Texas, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County (BGCCC) will host Chrysalis Ballits largest fundraising event of the yearon Saturday, October 17 at 6:30 P.M. CT. Since its inception, the annual gala has been the single largest funding source for the Clubs' programs that positively impact the lives of thousands of youth in Collin County. For the first time ever, this year's Chrysalis Ball presented by Capital One will be held as a virtual event, and will be livestreamed at www.bgccc.org/2020gala. Capital One returns as the presenting underwriter for the 10th year. The gala will feature the sounds of Grammy Award-Winning country music trio Lady A, with the band slated to perform songs from a recording collection boasting 10 number one hit singles and the 9x platinum hit "Need You Now." Attendees will also have the opportunity to bid on silent and live auction items, including unique opportunities like an exclusive Champagne Night with Lady A, which includes a 30-minute virtual happy hour with the band for up to 25 people, tickets to one of their 2021 concerts as well as passes to meet the band prior to the show. Tickets to the virtual gala are available on the event website for $50, with all proceeds going directly to Club programs and operations. The theme of this year's Chrysalis Ball is "It's a Beautiful Day in our Neighborhood," highlighting the resilience of the Clubs during these unprecedented times and serving as a reminder that it takes kindness, love and unity to end divisiveness and make our communities stronger than ever. BGCCC will kick off the evening with a special Live from the Red Carpet broadcast, where kids from the Clubs will line the red carpet to say thanks and show their appreciation for supporters watching the event. A special music video featuring an ensemble cast of Collin County superstars will follow. Last year's gala exceeded the million-dollar goal for gross revenue for the fourth straight year. The annual fundraiser continues to be a critical component for the Clubs to do more good in the communitynearly half of BGCCC's annual operating budget comes from funds raised at the gala. Funding from this year's event will be earmarked for a variety of different initiatives, created in response to the pandemic, including mental health and emotional wellness programs such as the recently launched Virtual Support Program that extends the daily operating schedule, allowing the Club to remain open and provide support from 7:30 A.M. 3:30 P.M. to students grade K-8. For more information about underwriting, sponsorships, individual tickets, auction item donations or general questions, visit www.bgccc.org/2020gala, or contact (469) 888-4620. SOURCE Boys & Girls Clubs of Collin County The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is proposing what its executive director calls significant changes to strengthen penalties for industry bad actors, but environmental advocates and a key local legislator say public input is still needed for the process. Citing the series of explosions, fires and mechanical failures that have become increasingly frequent across Texas, TCEQ Executive Director Toby Baker included a list of revised penalties, reduced thresholds for certain emissions releases and even a new category for consistent violators in the 30-page memorandum of proposed changes published on Sept. 14. In the Sept. 24 commissioners work session, Baker said the changes are an effort to answer a question hes been dealing with in the more than two years since his appointment that has been made even more urgent in the fallout of industrial disasters like the Houston ITC fire and TPC Group explosion in Port Neches. The question in my mind is, How can we possibly impact safety maintenance decision making within the bounds of TCEQ? Baker said. Its not an easy answer to come by. The public will have an opportunity to submit public comments and testimony about the proposed changes through email at penalty_policy@tceq.texas.gov until Oct. 30. In her testimony to TCEQ on behalf of Environment Texas, Catherine Fraser called the changes a step in the right direction. But she warned penalties would have to take back the full economic benefit of ignoring regulations before there can be a real change of culture in the state. Fraser said there has already been evidence that testimony from people impacted by these industrial disasters have pushed the agency to take further action on cases, and could help inspire the latest policy change. When there was a hearing after the TPC explosion, many people from Port Neches and the area came to share their experience and how they were impacted, she said. The directors decided to override staff recommendations and recommended that case to the (Texas) Attorney General. The company has yet to face any penalties associated with the explosion. Parts of the new proposals would have added impacts on companies like TPC that operate in the states more highly populated areas. Along with the increased penalties and policies that would count more violations per event, there is a proposed 20% increase on penalties for events that occurred in a county with more than 85,000 people. In the wake of the TPC blast, state Rep. Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, said hes had an office full of Port Neches residents concerned about the impact and how the company has responded in its aftermath. People with lifelong experience in the petrochemical industry, and even with the TPC Group plant itself, talked to him about how they would like to see safety improved. Phelan said he intends to prioritize the TCEQ policies and the needed funding to enforce monitoring in next year's legislative session. But he cautioned that, with a pandemic and economic recession on the agenda, it could take lawmakers having those same experiences with residents to drive home the point. We are surrounded by so much industry that it would be hard to not look at us as ground zero for updated enforcement, Phelan said. I think you will find some of the best industrial partners and a culture of safety, but we will also have some that will be shown as a poster child for why we needed this action. Regulation of industry has long been categorized as a choice between economic development and environmental preservation, but lawmakers like Phelan and local activists are hoping the discussion can rise above polarization. John Beard, director of the Port Arthur Community Action Network, said residents there have long been asked whether they wanted jobs or environmental justice but the question has turned out to be rhetorical. When the company formerly known as German Pellets had a fire at its silo at the Port of Port Arthur in 2017, the blaze blanketed the community with smoke for around 102 days. The event was labeled a major release with a $12,000 fine brought last January. It required deployment of emergency personnel every day. The eventual fine covered about $118 a day. Beard said it was time for people in the affected areas to speak up and make sure the well-being of their communities is not considered just another cost of doing business. You shouldnt have to die to make a living or live in an area that is impacted just so someone else can have a job, he said. If businesses want to be a good neighbor and help their communities, they have to do the real work. Beard said he believes steps to make penalties more of a deterrent to break the rules was a sound move, but Baker has already admitted that using TCEQ to influence industry responsibility is easier said than done. Baker used the ITC fire as an example of how industrial disasters caused economic damage in addition to harming public safety. That event in Houston caused other plants to shutter and closed the Houston Ship Channel to traffic. He said it was the ultimate goal of protecting good actors from bad actors that made the policy changes rise to the mission statement the state has set for TCEQ. The underlying challenge we have is we are not a process-safety regulator, Baker said in the Sept. 24 meeting. At the end of the day, we regulate emissions, we regulate discharges, we regulate pollution. jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com twitter.com/jd_journalism The cardinal again addresses the ruling class, guilty of the political, economic, institutional and social crisis. He calls for a "breach" to emerge from the crisis without waiting for "deadlines" imposed from abroad. Politicians "not masters of the people, but servants". Greek Orthodox Metropolitan of Beirut: no "mercy" for the victims of the explosions. Beirut (AsiaNews / Agencies) - Maronite Patriarch Card Beshara Rai is calling for a "a breach" in the generalized blockade imposed on the political, economic and financial life of the nation, without waiting for the "deadlines" dictated from abroad. He was speaking yesterday in his homily for Sunday Mass, particularly addressing young people asking them not to leave the country. "I understand your distrust and I share your disappointment [...], but Lebanon needs your revolution and your anger". The leader of the Maronite Church again spoke of the political, economic and institutional crisis that has (for some time now) rocked the land of cedars. Covid-19 has delivered the final blow to this already precarious situation, pushing 55% of the population below the poverty line in a context of continuous emergency which has also triggered, among others, an increase in suicides. Yesterday in Dimane, Card Rai pronounced a new indictment against the Lebanese ruling class that pays "little attention" to the needs of the people and where "a political group" controls the "destiny" of the nation and makes the arduous attempts to form a government fail. The Cardinal emphasized "we say: you are not the masters of the people, but their servants". He invites us to look to the Constitution to break the deadlock without waiting for interventions from abroad, to overcome "the constitutional coma into which the nation has fallen". Card Rai's latest thought is addressed to young people, who must "think deeply" before making the decision to emigrate because "economic, financial, social and health crises are everywhere in the world". Lebanon, he concluded, above all needs you. [The country] needs your revolution, your anger, your conscience, your education, your culture, your nobility and your way of life. Metropolitan Elias Audi, bishop of the Greek Orthodox of Beirut, also attacked the ruling class yesterday. During Mass celebrated in the cathedral of St. George he repeatedly stressed the lack of "mercy", especially among politicians who define themselves "Christians". "Where is mercy - the prelate asked - if the inhabitants of the neighbourhoods devastated by the twin explosion of last August 4 have not yet returned to their homes, while winter is upon us?". The danger, he warns, is that of an "alienation of their social, cultural and architectural identity" for neighbourhoods that "hand down the memory of Beirut" and that "have resisted the war and attempts at destruction". Russian news editor Irina Slavina has died after setting herself on fire in front of an interior ministry office in Nizhniy Novgorod (Russia) on Friday October 2. She earlier wrote on Facebook: I ask you to blame the Russian Federation for my death. The International and European Federation of Journalists (IFJ and EFJ) join the Russian Union of Journalists (RUJ) in calling on Russian authorities to investigate Slavinas self-immolation and death. Irina Slavina, the editor-in-chief of Koza Press news website, died at the scene from the resulting burns. She was 47 years old. On Thursday 1 October, Irina Slavina reported police stormed her flat looking for materials related to the pro-democracy group Open Russia. She claimed that 12 people had forced their way into her flat and seized flash drives, her and her daughters laptop and her and her husband's mobile phones. Before setting herself on fire, Slavina published a post on Facebook, which read: For my death, please blame the Russian Federation. Russias Investigative Committee confirmed that Irina Slavina, who leaves behind a husband and daughter, had died but denied any connection to a search of the journalists flat. The Nizhny Novgorod Investigative Committee Department said in a statement that Irina was a witness and was neither a suspect nor the one accused in the criminal investigation. According to media reports, Slavina was regularly harassed by the authorities for her political position and journalistic activities. RUJ demanded a comprehensive and objective investigation of the tragedy that occurred. IFJ General Secretary, Anthony Bellanger, said: "We are shocked by Irina Slavina's tragic death and we urge the Russian authorities to launch a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led her to commit suicide. There are plenty of unanswered questions that need to be clarified, such as the reasons behind the intrusive search she and her family were victims of". One person has died after a fire inside a Scarborough apartment Monday morning, the second fire-related death in four days in the city. Firefighters were called to a building on Warden Avenue, near Finch Avenue East, just after 8 a.m. The blaze was already extinguished before crews arrived at the scene, a Toronto Fire spokesperson said. Fire crews discovered a body inside the apartment. The cause of fire is unknown at this time, and the Ontarios Fire Marshal has been notified. On Friday at about 7 a.m., a man died after a fire broke out at a home on Cleta Drive, near St. Clair Avenue and Kennedy Road. Earlier this year, Toronto Fire Chief Matthew Pegg blamed a rise in fires and deaths from fires on the COVID-19 lockdown with more people staying at home. RS Rhythm Sachdeva is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: rsachdeva@thestar.ca Banh mi, the world-famous Vietnamese sandwich, is now available in the size of a palm in Saigon, allowing one to try a variety of different styles. A stall at 45 Bui Thi Xuan Street in District 1 is being hailed for its small-sized banh mi, an icon of Vietnamese street cuisine. The eatery offers a wide variety of fillings and sauces in styles from localities from north to south. Some popular items on the menu include Da Lats shumai bread (with tomato-sauce meatballs), Saigons pork-skin bread and Nha Trangs fish-cake bread. A palm-sized banh mi in Saigon. Photo by VnExpress/Vi Yen. The baguette used here is different from elsewhere in Saigon in that it has central region-style thick crust, which prevents the sandwich from crumbling and retains more of the sauces when being eaten. For big eaters, the stall also serves normal-sized baguettes. One of the stalls most most popular fillings is the tamarind-flavored grilled beef roll. To make the filling, beef reportedly imported from America is minced, seasoned with salt and pepper, and grilled. Then, right after being taken out of the oven, it is dipped in sweet and sour tamarind sauce to further add to the taste. The tamarind-flavored grilled beef roll is one kind of filling for the banh mi. Photo by VnExpress/Vi Yen. Instead of using daikon radish pickle like at many other Saigon-based stalls, this place uses papaya and carrot pickles with a more crunchy texture. Other fillings are used depending on the order, such as grilled beef bread with laksa leaves and honey-glazed pork bread with fried onion. The stall also has sate chilis, which is made by stir-frying minced chili with salt, garlic and sugar and comes with a pungency unique to central Vietnam cuisine. A set of five small sandwiches. Photo by VnExpress/Vi Yen. A set with five small sandwiches in a variety of styles is sold for VND80,000 ($3.46). The normal-sized sandwich costs VND30,000-VND40,000 ($1.30-1.73). Due to its small space, the stall targets mainly takeout customers, though there are a few seats inside. "We know how much people love cheese curds so we're uniting virtually with the most passionate, proud cheese lovers for the cheese curd squeak heard around the world," says Suzanne Fanning, Chief Marketing Officer for Wisconsin Cheese and Senior Vice President at Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. "We're sending fresh Wisconsin cheese curds to 3,000 fans in all 50 states, courtesy of our friends at LaGrander's Hillside Dairy in Stanley, Wisconsin. While Wisconsin has more award-winning cheeses than any other region, getting fresh cheese curds will always top the list for must-dos when visiting our state, so while people have paused their travel plans, we've decided to bring the cheese curds to them." The virtual event host is Luke Zahm, James Beard nominated chef and host of Wisconsin Foodie. Zahm will do a live cooking demo to show fans how to fry cheese curds at home, and talk with Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker Ryan LaGrander of LaGrander's Hillside Dairy, who supplies the cheese curds to Culver's. In the past year, Culver's has served more than eight hundred million individual fried, melty cheese curds at over 770 restaurants in 25 states. "Culver's and Wisconsin Cheddar Cheese Curds go hand in hand, it's only right that we created a National holiday for cheese curds," said Julie Fussner, Vice President of Marketing at Culver's. "We are excited to work with Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin to help our guests celebrate the sixth annual National Cheese Curd Day." You cannot go wrong with this irresistible Wisconsin original. Visit the Wisconsin Cheese Facebook page for all the details about the National Cheese Curd Day event. Not a part of the Cheeselandia community, or don't live in Wisconsin where you have access to fresh cheese curds made daily? No problem! You can still purchase cheese curds online by checking out the full list of Wisconsin cheesemakers that will ship fresh cheese curds straight to your door in time for the online event on Thursday, October 15th at 7:00pm CT/8:00pm ET. Craving more cheese knowledge from Wisconsin, The State of Cheese? Below are the most frequently asked questions about this dairy delicacy: What are curds? Essentially, curds are unaged cheddar cheese. They are separated from the whey early in the cheesemaking process and instead of being pressed into a block or wheel shaped form, they are cut into randomly shaped sweet, salty morsels. Why do they squeak? The elastic protein strands in the curds rub against the enamel of your teeth to create that characteristic sound. The "squeak" is also a sign of curd freshness, which are traditionally eaten at room temperature, the same day they are made. How do you eat them? Eat them fresh straight out of the bag, toss them on a salad, use them on a cheese board or in a recipe like poutine, where curds are placed on top of fries and smothered in gravy. Batter and fry the curds, use your air fryer, or order them fried at your local Culver's restaurant. About Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin: Funded by Wisconsin dairy farmers, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin is a non-profit organization that focuses on marketing and promoting Wisconsin's world-class dairy products. For more information, visit our website at wisconsindairy.org . About Wisconsin Cheese: The tradition of cheesemaking excellence began more than 175 years ago, before Wisconsin was recognized as a state. Wisconsin's 1,200 cheesemakers, many of whom are third- and fourth-generation, continue to pass on old-world traditions while adopting modern innovations in cheesemaking craftsmanship. For more information, visit WisconsinCheese.com or connect on Facebook. SOURCE Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin Related Links http://wisconsindairy.org Gavin Williamson today vowed to correct the 'shocking disgrace' of so few working class white boys attending university'. Speaking at the Conservatives' virtual conference the Education Secretary said it was a priority to make opportunity as evenly distributed as talent - in a question and answer session with one of his former teachers. He took part in a 'fireside chat' with Peter Ashton, who taught him politics at Scarborough Sixth Form in the early 1990s. And he also took aim at alleged indoctrination of pupils by their teachers, warning that classrooms had to be politically neutral territory. In the conference fringe event, broadcast online, Mr Williamson said: 'White working class young boys are the most underrepresented group of individuals who go on to university. 'To me that is a shocking disgrace. It is wrong. It's got to be corrected. 'We are going to correct that because - as the Prime Minister has said many many times - talent is incredibly evenly distributed right across the country. Opportunity is not.' Last month new research suggested white working-class children are being left behind by the school system, face a lifetime of economic disadvantage and will be hit hardest by the coronavirus crisis, However, help to raise educational standards is often targeted at ethnically diverse areas and pupils from minority backgrounds further stacking the cards against poor white boys and girls, academics said. One Oxford University don said the plight of working-class white children was seen as 'unfashionable' and 'not worthy'. And he suggested that even raising the issue was 'taboo', particularly in academic circles, as it was associated with 'hard-Right political thinking'. The research, submitted to the Commons Education Select Committee, reveals that white pupils eligible for free school meals are half as likely as their peers from poor ethnic minority backgrounds to achieve strong passes in the eight GCSEs used in school league tables. They are also more likely to attend a failing school and live in struggling communities in the North and Midlands. Gavin Williamson took part in a 'fireside chat' at the Tory conference with Peter Ashton, who taught him politics at Scarborough Sixth Form in the early 1990s In the conference fringe event, broadcast online, Mr Williamson said: 'White working class young boys are the most underrepresented group of individuals who go on to university. 'To me that is a shocking disgrace. It is wrong. It's got to be corrected' Mr Williamson also spoke about political bias in the classroom. Last week his former ministerial colleague Esther McVey suggested that students were being 'indoctrinated' with left-wing political ideas in schools. Wouthout mentioning either the left or right of politics, Mr Williamson said: 'It's important that we give people the context in order for them to be able to learn and then form their own opinions but they shouldn't be influenced in an improper way and that's very much what the guidance is. 'But impartiality in our education system, political impartiality in our education system is an incredibly important principle to uphold.' Earlier today the head of a teaching union warned today that A-Level and GCSE exams would have to be simplified next summer because it was unfair to test pupils on subjects they had missed while schools were closed by coronavirus. Geoff Barton, the general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders said a planned three-week delay in sitting tests next summer did not go far enough to help children catch up on missed areas of the syllabus. He suggested that exams be 'pared down', removing areas of courses that there had been no time to teach because schools were closed. Ahead of a meeting with schools minister Nick Gibb whether exams should be pared down, he told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'I think we really ought to think about that. 'If the assumption is it can be business as usual but with three weeks extra teaching time you're going to have some young people who won't have covered, for example, the Tudors in history or photosynthesis in biology. 'It would be unthinkable that those young people would be tested in the same way that the previous generation would be, and therefore a modification of those exams would be useful.' Geoff Barton, the general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders said a planned three-week delay in sitting tests next summer did not go far enough to help children catch up on missed areas of the syllabus Mr Williamson is expected to soon announce a revised exams timetable to give teenagers more time to catch up on missed learning. He appeared at the virtual Conservative Party Conference today and was interviewed by one of his former teachers. The Education Secretary is adamant exams will go ahead in 2021 after a bruising summer this year under siege from furious students, parents and teachers over the use of a controversial algorithm to calculate marks, which led to widespread downgrading. The Department for Education said 'a possible short delay to the exam timetable' is a live discussion after being proposed by the regulator Ofqual. The regulator's interim boss Dame Glenys Stacey reportedly backs the Government's extension to the exam timetable and is busy mapping out a strategy to ensure that papers are graded before the start of the university term in 2021. Downing Street is understood to have decreed exams to go ahead next year after refusing to bow to critics urging them to be scrapped. Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. A catheter used in angiography with the help of X-ray imaging guidance. The use of a catheter makes it possible to combine treatment and diagnosis in a single procedure. Various catheters available for angiography include coronary catheters, renal catheters, and microcatheters. However, coronary catheters are the most-used product due to increasing incidence of cardiovascular disease. Since the past few years, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death, worldwide, taking approximately 18 million lives each year. This factor will propel the growth of the angiography catheters market during the forecast period. Furthermore, technological advancements in cardiovascular procedures and development in healthcare infrastructure are some other factors that will boost the angiography catheters market in the future. Get Sample Copy of Report @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/31549 Companies covered in Angiography Catheters Market Report Cordis, a Cardinal Health company Medtronic Boston Scientific Corporation AngioDynamics Cook Medical Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Cook Medical Terumo Interventional Systems Abbott Laboratories Alvimedica Medical Device Get To Know Methodology of Report @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/methodology/31549 According to a latest report published by PMR, the global angiography catheters market is expected to witness a CAGR of nearly 7% during the forecast period (20202030). Key Takeaways from Angiography Catheters Market Study The coronary catheters segment, under product, is expected to contribute more than 53% revenue share in the angiography catheters market. revenue share in the angiography catheters market. Various product launches by key players along with advanced technology are expected to dominate the demand for angiography catheters. Increasing heart healthcare programs are spreading awareness, which is creating significant demand for angiography catheters. Leading players in the angiography catheters market are collaborating with various other players to strengthen their market position. North America is dominating the global angiography catheters market, while East Asia is expected to offer lucrative opportunities, owing to increasing healthcare programs and industrialization. Manufacturing challenges as a result of various COVID-19 -pandemic-related restrictions will stunt the growth of the angiography catheters market in the near-term. "Rise in the prevalence of vascular disorders, owing to sedentary lifestyle, and increase in obesity and hypertension across the world, will boost the growth of the global angiographic catheter market over the next decade," says a PMR analyst. Access Full Report @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/31549 Acquisitions and Partnerships - Key Strategy amongst Market Players Key players in the angiography catheters market are looking forward to strengthening their product portfolios through the launch of new products. For instance, in 2019 , Medtronic launched a telescope-guided extension catheter to support complex coronary cases. In 2018 , Cook announced the re-launch of the Beacon Tip Torcon NB Advantage 5 Fr Catheter in the United States. Various players in the angiography catheters market are focusing on growth strategies such as acquisitions and partnerships. For example, in 2019 , Boston Scientific Corporation announced the acquisition of BTG plc. What Does the Report Cover? Persistence Market Research offers a unique perspective and actionable insights on the angiography catheters market in its latest study, presenting historical demand assessment of 20152019 and projections for 2020 2030 , on the basis of product (cerebral catheters, visceral catheters, coronary catheters, renal catheters, microcatheter, and pigtail catheters), application (coronary, endovascular, neurology, and oncology), and end user (hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, and cardiac catheterization laboratories), across seven key regions. Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association (PNBA) members tuned into the fall trade shows final virtual panel on Friday, a practical discussion about how to keep activism front and center at bookstoreseven as the Covid-19 crisis limits physical interaction and community events. Annie Carl, the owner of The Neverending Bookshop in Edmonds, Wash., spoke about how activism begins with a bookstores selection. During the national quarantine in March, she reconfigured her stores offerings after realizing her shelves had been dominated by white male authors. I started putting my money where my ethics and morals are, she said. Bringing in titles by people of color, LGBTQ+, and disabled voices. I would say right now my shop, including the kids section, is 95% not white dude. Bookstores can also partner with local activists and express solidarity during key moments of national protest. Kings Books in Tacoma, Wash. is currently closed to the public, but is offering online orders and curbside pickup during quarantine. Nevertheless, owner sweet pea Flaherty said his store has promoted local activists and Black booksellers in the region by amplifying voices through social media and online campaigns. The bookstore fully closed on June 12 to support the Black Lives Matterss movements call for a statewide general strike. In addition, bookstore patrons can purchase books on a special online wishlist and donate books by people of color to young readers in the community. Teenage Tacoma-based activists called Seeds of Peace Scholars sanitize and hand-deliver and distribute these books to Little Free Libraries around the city. This is a fully student-led thing, he said, but a lot of our customers have jumped in with order after order. Sho Roberts, the owner of Maggie Maes Kids Bookshop in Gresham, Ore., stressed that childrens bookstores can also play an important role. We donate a lot of books, said Roberts, as part of her effort to share diverse books with all readers. Her bookstore occasionally hosts free book days, and makes sure everyone has access to reading materials. So that way, people who might not be able to always afford a book will still be able to have something to read, and for their kids to read, she said. Any kind of activism will always earn what Annie Carl called pushback from some customers. When she radically reconfigured her bookshelves to reflect a spirit of feminism and activism, one former patron expressed displeasure at the changes and angrily hurled two books at the owner. I'm sure he's found another used bookstore to cater to his particular brand of reading, Carl said. And I am totally cool with that. I had to be okay with losing those dollars, I had to be okay with the idea that I was losing customers. But I was also gaining customers. We haven't had much political pushback at all, said Kings Books owner Flaherty. We're a very political bookstore, but we don't endorse candidates and we don't talk about politics at the store. The books kind of talk for us. If someone wants to talk politics at the counter with us, we don't engage in that. His bookstore, however, hosts civil conversations around 11 now-virtual book clubs that push boundaries and encourage greater inclusivity, including Feminist Utopia Book Club, the Banned Book Club, and the Queerest Book Club Ever. The panelists agreed that bookstores need to be inclusive and responsive to all kinds of customers, even when faced with pushback. At Maggie Maes Kids Bookshop, Roberts faced her most dramatic community pushback when the bookstore hosted its first Drag Queen Story Hour events for kids. Employees received phone calls, emails, social media comments, and in-store visits from people complaining about the event. Roberts trained her employees to answer critics with an even-handed response. Its not political, its humanity. We want to help others, she said, sharing language her team used in these tricky situations. You dont have to shop here. You can feel angry and your feelings are valid, but that doesn't change our values, she said. Recent escalation of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict worsens, with civilians bearing the brunt of the surge in violence. Despite recent negotiations for a humanitarian ceasefire, the situation remains volatile. Several hundred civilian deaths and many more injuries have been reported on both sides of the line of contact, including volunteers from the Azerbaijan Red Crescent, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Homes, hospitals and schools have been irreparably damaged by artillery. People are moving locations looking for shelter and safer terrain, but the scale of displacement is not known at this time. Ever present is also the threat of COVID-19, as people try to protect themselves and their families from the virus. Since the onset of the escalation at the end of September, the ICRC has urged the sides to take all feasible measures to protect and spare civilians and civilian infrastructure like hospitals, schools, markets and cultural property. These are not voluntary gestures. These are obligations under international humanitarian law. The ICRC is in contact with the sides in bilateral, confidential dialogue to remind them of their obligations under international humanitarian law. The appalling scenes that we are seeing cannot continue.", said Martin Schuepp,ICRCs Eurasia Regional Director. The ICRC is the arm of the global Red Cross and Red Crescent network that assists victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence. As with all Red Cross entities, it is an independent, neutral organization ensuring humanitarian protection. In addition to the ICRC, the Red Cross and Red Crescent societies are responding to the ongoing needs on the ground. The Armenian Red Cross is aiding people with food, hygiene items, basic necessities, first aid kits, wheelchairs, walkers and mental health support. It is also supporting hospitals with hygiene items, blankets and pillows. Volunteers are also donating blood to replenish stocks at the blood bank and help with organizational issues. The Azerbaijan Red Crescent has mobilized more than 200 members of its emergency team to provide immediate first aid and mental health support to affected people. More than 1,500 displaced households receive daily assistance with food, water and other aid. Staff and volunteers are helping transport the wounded to hospitals and participate in blood collection. The International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC) is supporting both societies to address their most urgent needs. IFRC is providing immediate food assistance. It is also supporting households with hygiene items, fuel, bedding, kitchen sets and winter clothing. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has distributed emergency cash to more than 3,000 families who have been uprooted from their homes. Teams have also distributed medical supplies, equipment and blankets to hospitals. Food items and hygiene kits have been delivered to affected people through the local social care services. And recently, the ICRC visited detained prisoners of war (POW) and civilians. "People have been in touch with the ICRC who are terrified for themselves and their families and at a loss as to where to go or what to do to stay safe. They are caught in the crossfire and deeply fearful for their safety and future. We are committed to helping all those who are feeling the impact of this escalation in violence. We call on the sides to protect civilians and the key infrastructure and services they need to survive, and abide by their obligations under international humanitarian law," said Martin Schuepp, ICRC's Eurasia regional director in Geneva. For more information: ICRC News Release ICRC Twitter HOUSTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Wallis Bank joined the American Bankers Association (ABA) and banks across the nation in launching an industry-wide campaign to educate consumers about the persistent threat of phishing scams. The FTC estimates that consumers lost $1.9 billion to phishing schemes and other fraud scams in 2019, and the ongoing pandemic has only increased the threat. The #BanksNeverAskThat campaign uses attention-grabbing content to empower consumers to identify bogus bank communications asking for sensitive information like their social security numbers. "Educating customers about account safety and cyberthreats is something we must all be mindful about if we want to reduce the risk of sensitive information being exploited/compromised," said Asif Dakri, Chief Executive Officer at Wallis Bank. "We want to do our part to strengthen our industry's cybersecurity infrastructure and protect customers against a data compromise." Steps that can be taken to help prevent cybersecurity attacks include: Enable the strongest authentication tools offered by your bank. Popular authentication methods include biometrics, security keys, and single-use codes. by your bank. Popular authentication methods include biometrics, security keys, and single-use codes. Use complex passwords and differentiate them across multiple platforms. For example, customers should use one password for their online bank account and another for an email account to help minimize the loss in the event of a breach. Wallis Bank, along with banks across the country and ABA, is simultaneously launching the campaign to mark the beginning of National Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Wallis Bank will share tips on social media to highlight common phishing schemes. Cybersecurity education and fraud awareness can often be dull and forgettable to many consumers; the campaign is designed to be bright and bold. "This campaign is an unprecedented effort by the banking industry to address a growing threat to our customers," said Rob Nichols, ABA president and CEO. "Thanks to participating banks like Wallis Bank, we're turning the tables on the bad guys by giving consumers the tools they need to spot illegitimate bank communications." A question a real bank would never ask: "There's some unusual activity on your account; can you please verify your username and password?" For more information about phishing scams, red flags, tips, and FAQs, visit www.BanksNeverAskThat.com. About Wallis Bank Wallis Bank is a full-service community bank dedicated to serving both rural customers as well as large international clients with the highest level of personal service. The Bank was established in 1906 in Wallis, Texas, and holds the unique experience of surviving the Great Depression and both World Wars. Over the years, the company underwent the expansion of additional branches and offices in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. The Bank continues to expand its offering of digital products and services for enhanced customer experience. In 2019, Wallis Bank has been named to ICBA's Best of the Best community banks. This marks the sixth time in seven years that the Bank has been recognized for this honor. Lisa Diaz Phone: 713.935.3722 Email: [email protected] Related Links Wallis Bank SOURCE Wallis Bank Seema Kushwaha, lawyer of the 2012 Delhi gang-rape victim Nirbhaya, will fight the case of Hathras victim. Sources told Zee Media that the victim's family has allowed Kushwaha to represent the family in the court. It is to be noted that Kushwaha has been in regular touch with the victim's family since her death at Delhi's Safadrjung Hospital few days ago. The victim's family has leveled some serious allegations on the distrcit administration and has also accused police of failing to help the victim's family. Kushwaha has also said that victim's family is not feeling safe in the village and it is the duty of the Uttar Pradesh government to provide security to them. Meanwhile, sources have claimed that the protests against Hathras gang-rape were staged by some groups with an aim to create unrest in Uttar Pradesh and distrub law and order in the state. It is learnt that a website named 'JusticeforHathras' was created to disseminate fake information related to the incident in order to stoke sentiments and spark caste-based riots across the state. The website was used to create a large group of people and spark riots in Uttar Pradesh. Sources also claimed that the family of the victim was tutored by some people to speak against the government and not take the compensation offered by Uttar Pradesh government. Live TV The Hathras incident has caused a massive outrage across the nation and Uttar Pradesh government is under intense pressure to maintain law and order in the state. On Sunday (October 4), Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a scathing attack on Opposition saying they want to stoke riots in state and country by doing communal politics. The 19-year-old girl was brutally assaulted and allegedly gang-raped by four people belonging to 'upper caste' on September 14. Michael Houghton and Americans Harvey J Alter and Charles M Rice were awarded the prize for the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus. Prior to their work, while the discoveries of the Hepatitis A and B viruses were vital, the majority of blood-borne hepatitis cases remained unexplained. The identification of Hepatitis C virus revealed the cause of the remaining cases of chronic hepatitis and made possible blood tests and new medicines that have saved millions of lives. According to the World Health Organisation, there are more than 70 million cases of hepatitis worldwide and 400,000 deaths each year. The award comes with a gold medal and prize money of 10 million Swedish kronor (867,000), courtesy of a bequest left 124 years ago by the prizes creator, Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel. Announcing the prize in Stockholm on Monday, the Nobel Committee noted that the trios work helped explain a major source of blood-borne hepatitis that could not be explained by the Hepatitis A and B viruses. Advertisement The committee said: Thanks to their discovery, highly sensitive blood tests for the virus are now available and these have essentially eliminated post-transfusion hepatitis in many parts of the world, greatly improving global health. It added: Their discovery also allowed the rapid development of antiviral drugs directed at Hepatitis C. For the first time in history, the disease can now be cured, raising hopes of eradicating Hepatitis C virus from the world population. In the 1960s, Baruch Blumberg determined that one form of blood-borne hepatitis was caused by a virus that became known as Hepatitis B virus, and the discovery led to the development of diagnostic tests and an effective vaccine. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1976 for this discovery. At that time, at the US National Institutes of Health, Prof Alter was studying the occurrence of hepatitis in patients who had received blood transfusions. His investigations defined a new, distinct form of chronic viral hepatitis, which became known as non-A, non-B hepatitis. BREAKING NEWS: The 2020 #NobelPrize in Physiology or Medicine has been awarded jointly to Harvey J. Alter, Michael Houghton and Charles M. Rice for the discovery of Hepatitis C virus. pic.twitter.com/MDHPmbiFmS The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 5, 2020 Researchers then began the work of identifying the novel virus. While working for the pharmaceutical firm Chiron, Prof Houghton undertook the work to isolate the genetic sequence of the virus. His work identified the Hepatitis C virus, developed blood tests and identified new drug targets for this virus as well as developing a vaccine for clinical development. Prof Rice, a researcher at Washington University in St Louis, found that Hepatitis C virus alone could cause the unexplained cases of hepatitis. Prof Houghton was born in the United Kingdom, and received his PhD in 1977 from Kings College London. He joined GD Searle and Company before moving to Chiron Corporation, Emeryville, California in 1982. He relocated to the University of Alberta in 2010 and is currently a Canada Excellence Research Chair in Virology and the Li Ka Shing Professor of Virology at the University of Alberta, where he is also director of the Li Ka Shing Applied Virology Institute. All three scientists will receive one third of the prize each. He's been criticised in recent weeks for the 'tiny' size of his dishes, and now one of Gordon Ramsay's creations has been slammed for its appearance. The TV chef, 53, split opinion after sharing a video of his chocolate brownie, which has been called '50 shades of diarrhoea' and 'cat vomit' by critics. He posted a clip to Instagram showcasing the 9 sweet treat, which is served at Gordon's York & Albany restaurant in Camden, London. But social media users were left unimpressed with the 'vile' cream placed on top of the chocolate brownie, labelling the finished product an unwanted 'mess', while others admitted they'd still like to taste the dish. Scroll down for video He's been criticised in recent weeks for the 'tiny' size of his dishes, and now one of Gordon Ramsay's creations (pictured above) has been slammed for its appearance The TV chef, 53, split opinion after sharing a video of his chocolate brownie, which has been called '50 shades of diarrhoea' and 'cat vomit' by critics (above) Gordon (pictured) posted a clip to Instagram showcasing the 9 sweet treat, which is served at his York & Albany restaurant in Camden, London 'The perfect Sunday treat,' wrote Gordon, while sharing a video of his dish being plated up this weekend. Despite racking up more than 900,000 views, not everyone was a fan of the sweet creation, thought to be the York & Albany's chocolate brownie, blackberry, dulce de leche, salted caramel dessert. One person wrote: 'Gordon it was perfect when the ice cream landed. But then something that looked like omelette vomit was squeezed on top ... seriously.' But social media users (above) were left unimpressed with the 'vile' cream placed on top of the chocolate brownie, labelling the finished product an unwanted 'mess' A second questioned: What's with the cat vomit on the top?, while another said: Think you're running out of ideas. Looks a mess. 'What on earth was squirted on top at the end? Ruined it. Looks vile', a fourth viewer asked. But it wasnt all criticism for the dessert, with Top Gear star Paddy McGuinness writing: Yes, yes, yes, while another person said: Okay, now I want to go to his restaurant. MailOnline has contacted Gordon Ramsay's representative for comment. Despite racking up more than 900,000 views, not everyone was a fan of the sweet creation (pictured), thought to be the York & Albany's chocolate brownie, blackberry, dulce de leche, salted caramel dessert Reaction: But some social media users (pictured ) admitted they'd still like to taste the dish In the clip, a chef places a few slices of banana on a grey dish before putting a piece of chocolate brownie on top. Next, a scoop of salted caramel ice cream is added along with a generous portion of cream and dusted with some cocoa powder. Earlier this month, Gordon divided opinion after sharing a video of his chocolate tofu pudding, which was branded 'perhaps the most unappetising and unappealing dessert ever'. He posted a Facebook video of the 10 pudding, which is the signature dessert of his swanky Mayfair restaurant Lucky Cat, which specialises in Asian cuisine. Earlier this month, Gordon split opinion after sharing a video of his chocolate tofu dessert (pictured) at the Lucky Cat restaurant Elsewhere, a diner slammed Gordon Ramsay's 20 pre-selected cheese board served at his restaurant in Chelsea as 'insulting' and 'bland' Gordon was also savaged online over his Sunday lunch (pictured), with diners branding it a 'child's portion' and questioning where the rest of the trimmings are The post quickly racked up 25,000 likes and 4,700 comments, with some saying they'd like to taste the dish, but others were left baffled by what looked like a 'brown paper bag' placed on top. Another very impressed user penned: 'First the poop in the middle, then covered by a layer of what looks like fat, and topped with a piece of pork crackling.' Last month diners slammed the chef's 20 pre-selected cheese board served at his restaurant in Chelsea, branding it 'insulting' and 'bland'. Gordon Ramsay was also savaged online by a diner who visited one of his London restaurants and was left disappointed with the small steak and chips (pictured), costing 23 And he branded a fan an 'idiot sandwich' after the chef came under fire for sharing a picture of his lacklustre 19 Full English breakfast (above) Weeks ago, he was also criticised online when he shared a photograph of his Sunday lunch on Instagram. While Gordon labelled the 'sirloin of beef with all the trimmings' 'absolutely stunning', several of his 9.8million followers were left unimpressed by the three baby carrots and roast potatoes offered - with one person asking: 'Where's the rest of it? He also came under fire with both his 19 Full English Breakfast at the Savoy Grill and the 'tiny' 23 steak and over-salted chips at his York & Albany eatery in Camden, being criticised. German Ambassador in Cairo Cyrill Jean Nunn will bestow the Commanders Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany upon Abdel-Aty in an honouring ceremony The Embassy of Germany in Cairo will hold a reception this evening to honour Ambassador Badr Abdel-Aty, the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for European Affairs and Egypt's former ambassador to Germany. German Ambassador in Cairo Cyrill Jean Nunn will bestow the Commanders Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany upon Abdel-Aty during the ceremony. Ambassador Abdel-Aty will be awarded the highest Medal of Merit with the rank of Commander, which the German Federal President gives every year to a select group of German citizens who have made efforts to serve German interests. The honour is also bestowed upon foreigners who have a footprint in the field of developing relations between their countries and the Republic of Germany. Ambassador Abdel-Aty has been given the award due to the boom in Egyptian-German relations during his tenure in the position, which witnessed remarkable activities and exchanges of visits between officials from the two countries on all levels. On the economic level, during Abdel-Aty's tenure, relations developed greatly and the largest deal in the history of the German company Siemens was concluded with the Egyptian electricity sector to establish three stations to generate 14.4 gigawatts, which are considered the largest stations established in the world. Abdel-Aty's tenure also saw the return of Mercedes-Benz to manufacturing in Egypt after its exit from the Egyptian market in 2012. An agreement was also reached with the Bosch Corporation, one of the largest companies in the world that produce household electrical appliances, to establish a factory in 10th of Ramadan City. This is in addition to increasing cooperation in the field of tourism, and the number of German tourists by the end of 2019 reached 2 million, the highest number in the history of relations between the two countries. The German medal was previously awarded to Mohamed El-Orabi, a former foreign minister of Egypt and ambassador to Germany, who served for seven years in the country. Search Keywords: Short link: HALIFAX - When Mark Butler needed a new gasket for his coffee maker, he hopped on his bike and rode to the Mountain Equipment Co-op store in Halifax. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. People wear face masks as they walk through a shopping mall in Montreal, Saturday, September 19, 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues in Canada and around the world. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes HALIFAX - When Mark Butler needed a new gasket for his coffee maker, he hopped on his bike and rode to the Mountain Equipment Co-op store in Halifax. "The guy just said, 'We don't carry them,'" Butler said. "I told him I had bought them there before, and he just told me to look online." Amid the economic wreckage of the COVID-19 pandemic, a trend is emerging in which some shoppers at large chains and big box stores are being quietly advised to shop online. As supply chain issues impact inventory and a second wave threatens more lockdowns, many retailers are upgrading online services to rival the in-store experience. However, as Butler's experience shows, the results can be hit and miss. "Some retailers are actually innovating in the online space and trying to connect with their customers in ways that are not just utilitarian but actually create that shopping experience youd have in store," said Jenna Jacobson, assistant professor at Ryerson University's Ted Rogers School of Retail Management. For example, shoppers can schedule virtual meetings with salespeople for personalized help ranging from wardrobe tips to home design. Online chat boxes connect shoppers to real salespeople rather than "chat bots" programmed with a preset list of questions and answers. And some grocery stores are connecting customers to personal shoppers to allow for real time grocery list edits. "The personal shopper who is picking out fruits and veggies can actually correspond with the customers to say, 'Were out of strawberries, would you like blueberries," Jacobson said. The aim isn't to eclipse the physical store, but to complement it. Experts say it's all about what's known in the business as omnichannel retail, which involves the seamless integration of the physical and digital shopping worlds. When it works, it improves customer service, brand engagement and ultimately sales. But when it fails, customers can feel confused and discouraged. In Butler's case, the salesperson could have checked the out-of-stock inventory on a computer and had his gasket shipped to the store or delivered to his home. "It wasn't particularly encouraging about using the store," Butler said. "It pretty explicitly sends the message that I should just go online." Markus Giesler, associate professor of marketing at York Universitys Schulich School of Business, said shoppers being told to "just go online" points to a problem with the retail strategy for how online and brick-and-mortar stores will co-exist. "Omni-channel retail requires tremendous co-ordination between different actors and elements," he said. "Salespeople on the ground need to be trained and fully on board with the mission or the result is often frustrated consumers." Part of the challenge facing retailers is the meteoric growth in online shopping in recent months. Statistics Canada reported that e-commerce sales soared to an all-time high of $3.9 billion in May, an increase of 110 per cent compared with May 2019. The acceleration in online shopping has leapfrogged ahead years, leaving some retailers and their salespeople scrambling to keep up. But Karl Littler with the Retail Council of Canada said it would be the "rare retailer" that would discourage people from shopping in their physical store. Besides the substantial costs that go into keeping the doors open, he said shoppers tend to buy more in-store. Still, he said it's "a reasonable proposition that the online offering is going to be broader." "There are more products available online than any physical store can conceivably contain," said Littler, the industry group's senior vice-president of public affairs. He added that given the rapid growth in e-commerce, retailers are likely evaluating how much of a physical footprint they need. Ultimately, Littler said the future of retail is about integrating the online shopping world with the physical stores. It's something retailer Canadian Appliance Source has been refining since before COVID-19. Terry Robar, director of sales, said the company's strong online platform helped with the transition to a fully online model during the lockdowns. He said the same salespeople helping customers in the company's physical locations are also available to answer questions through the live chat feature on the company's website. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "Appliances are among the most expensive purchases people will make and we know there's a lot of research that's involved," Robar said. "We wanted to have knowledgeable in-store staff helping customers online." The strategy stands in contrast to the typical online approach, in which companies outsource the live chat function to a call centre, or offer to have a salesperson follow up in the future to answer questions. Robar said there's an interesting subdivide emerging among his sales staff, with some still preferring the social interaction of a face-to-face sale while others have fully adapted to online sales. But he said there will always be brick-and-mortar stores. "There's a strong 'touch and feel' component to buying appliances. We'll always have physical locations." This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. Pakistan is in trouble again for supporting an organization that carries out attacks on the United States, or tries to. In this case its not Islamic terrorists but a detachment of the Chinese SSF (Strategic Support Force). This is a branch of the Chinese military that was created in 2015 to control Cyber War, space-based communications and IW (electronic warfare) activities. To the Chinese all three of these activities are intertwined. Westerners agree but none have an organization like the SSF. In part thats because much of what SSF supervises is, according to international law, illegal. This includes theft of IP (Intellectual Property) via Internet hacking. China disagrees and sees their information theft as enhanced when these activities are closely integrated with the development of space-based communications and new IW technology and techniques. SSF does have a legitimate purpose, to monitor space, Internet and electronic traffic worldwide to collect and analyze information for Chinese military and political leaders. To the Americans the SSF is a major player in the Chinese worldwide Internet-based espionage effort. Allowing an SSF facility in Pakistan is, to the Americans, another unfriendly act by Pakistan. The SSF has taken control of a lot of space program activities even though SSF is mainly concerned with collecting information via space satellites. There are overlapping bureaucracies here and so far this does not appear to have caused major problems. SSF has similar connections with EW and encryption operations. This includes official hacking as well as the outlaw stuff, which is often subcontracted to criminal gangs that specialize in hacking. The foreign SSF facilities in Pakistan, Namibia and Argentina are technically for tracking Chinese satellites and communicating with them. There are similar SSF facilities in foreign military bases China is establishing, like the one Djibouti, which neighbors Somalia and Ethiopia. All these SSF facilities are considered classified operations and are well guarded. No foreigners are admitted. This is a problem for Pakistan because it has been receiving billions of dollars in American military aid since 2001 with the understanding that Pakistan would not host organizations that do harm to the United States. This originally meant Islamic terrorist groups but, considering the SSFs key role in Cyber War operations against the United States, SSF qualifies. The Americans see SSF in Pakistan as another way Pakistan facilitates attacks on the United States. American aid to Pakistan has been declining since 2014 as it became more obvious that Pakistan was actively hosting and directly Islamic terrorist groups that were attacking Americans as well as Afghans and Indians. Pakistan is still receiving some aid, as in $350 million for 2019 and $4.8 billion from 2014-2019 but not much in 2020. Pakistan is now receiving far more cash from China in the form of economic investments. China is the largest foreign supplier of weapons to Pakistan and Pakistan is the largest export customer for Chinese weapons. Pakistan want so have it both ways but the Americans are no longer cooperating and the SSF base is a major reason why. Clashes between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces have been raging now for over a week, and Turkey, Russia and France have all gotten directly involved in the conflict. Now it seems that Israel is also being dragged into the regional dispute. On Sept. 30, assistant to Azerbaijan President Hikmet Hajiyev told the Israeli news outlet Walla that the his countrys military has been using Israeli-made attack drones in the recent fighting. Hailing their effectiveness, he said, Hats off to the engineers who designed it, adding that his people very much appreciate the cooperation with Israel, especially the defense cooperation. Drone footage released by Azerbaijan of a strike on a Nagorno-Karabakh artillery position appeared to show an Israeli drone. Another Sept. 30 report that has not been confirmed claimed that two mysterious cargo flights from Israel had landed in Baku. Reports from Oct. 2 contained a video of an Israeli LORA missile allegedly striking a bridge in Armenia. On Oct. 1, Armenia recalled its ambassador to Israel for consultations over Israeli weapons sales to its enemy. Armenian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Anna Naghdalyan called Israel's practices "unacceptable" and condemned its supply of ultra-modern weapons to Azerbaijan. Israels Foreign Ministry took its time responding. And when it did, the reaction was mild. The ministry did not deny the Armenian allegation. Israel attaches importance to our relations with Armenia, and because of this sees the Armenian Embassy in Israel as an important tool for promoting the benefit of both peoples, stated simply the ministrys spokesperson. Israel avoided provoking Armenia further, but clearly the damage has been done. Israel's reaction evidently did little to convince Yerevan. On Oct. 2, the Armenian Foreign Ministry tweeted that an "Israeli-made Tadiran radio [transmitter was] found with killed Azerbaijan officer" receiving military orders in Arabic. Israel and Azerbaijan established diplomatic relations in April 1992. A year later, Israel opened an embassy in Baku. Late President Shimon Peres served as foreign minister at the time, and over the years invested great effort in deepening bilateral relations, including an official visit there as president in 2009. Israels defense establishment has also been deeply engaged with the moderate Muslim country neighboring Iran as a valuable and even indispensable partner. Cementing these relations, Jews of Azerbaijan origin have been very active over the past three decades in nurturing ties and developing all sorts of joint commercial ventures. According to reports, the scale of commercial ties mainly arms deals between Israel and Azerbaijan is colossal. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, in 2016 arms exports from Israel to Azerbaijan added up to $250 million and $136 million in 2017. The institute noted that from 2015 to 2019, "A total of 60% of Azerbaijans arms imports came from Israel and 31% from Russia." Another sphere of commercial ties is energy, with Azerbaijan exporting to Israel as much as 40% of its local petrol consumption. The Azeri petrol reaches Turkey via pipelines and from there it is shipped to Israel on boats. Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR is reportedly interested in buying shares in the Israeli Ashdod refinery. The strategic importance of Azerbaijan could explain Israels mild reaction to the Armenian accusations. Still, Jerusalem has been careful not to be publicly associated with the Azeri-Turkish camp. Jerusalem certainly does not consider Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan a friend, and Israel maintains good diplomatic relations with Armenia. The Russian support of the Armenians also complicates things. Throughout his years as prime minister, Netanyahu has made a point of establishing good, even friendly ties, with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He does not want to ruin them. Moscow has not yet scolded Jerusalem publicly for its support of Azerbaijan, but it could happen soon. France has taken up the Armenian side, with French President Emmanuel Macron alleging Oct. 2 that hundreds of Syrian jihadist fighters from Aleppo had passed through the Turkish city of Gaziantep en route for Azerbaijan, probably not the kind of news Israel wants to be associated with. Armenian President Armen Sarkissian and Israels President Reuven Rivlin spoke today on the phone in an effort to restore dialogue between the two countries. Rivlin explained that Israel has a longstanding relationship with Azerbaijan, stressing that these relations and cooperation are not directed against any party. Does this mean that Israel will continue its arms sales to Azerbaijan as the conflict with Armenia continues? It's hard to say. In any case, Armenians in Israel and elsewhere are deeply disappointed. Yerevan officially inaugurated its embassy in Tel Aviv just two weeks ago, certainly hoping for a different kind of bilateral relations. This afternoon, the Armenian community in Haifa is planning a demonstration against what it considers Israels silence. Category Select Category Apparel/Garments Textiles Fashion Technical Textiles Information Technology E-commerce Retail Corporate Association Press Release SubCategory Select Sub-Category The first Aeromar flight from Laredo to Mexico City took off Monday morning packed with members of the private and public sectors, including Rep. Henry Cuellar, Mayor Pete Saenz and City Manager Robert Eads. This concluded a three-year campaign by the city to obtain this nonstop service to Mexicos capital, which was due to commence in May but was pushed back after COVID-19 put a pause on most international travel. Saenz said he foresees the pandemic continuing on for a while, and that the best they can do is make adjustments and live with it responsibly so that the economy doesnt sink any further. This is what tourism is all about. Bringing the economic side of it but also the cultural side, Saenz said at a news conference before their departure. But also too, economic development. Theres no city without ... airlines coming to their city that can be robust in their economic development. While in Mexico City, Saenz and Cuellar will be meeting with Mexicos Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard about reopening the international bridges at the border to non-essential travelers, something the city has petitioned from the federal governments of both countries. Saenz said the city delegation will also be meeting with Mexicos Tax Administration Service, shortened to SAT in Spanish, about allowing Laredos pre-clearance customs program with Mexico to include e-commerce. Councilman Marte Martinez, who is also on the trip, said he was excited to have the trade industry there to help show Mexicos officials what Laredo means to the supply chain. When youre an elected official, theres two big responsibilities youre impressed with. One, is being an ambassador to the community for state and federal officials. Two, is to ensure economic prosperity for your community. Its at that intersection of those two responsibilities thats why this flight is so important, Martinez said. Laredo City Council in January approved this partnership with Aeromar, which includes a minimum revenue guarantee of $800,000 for the airline. The city also pre-purchased 286 tickets for $100,100 to be banked and used by city staff and elected officials on any business trips to Mexicos capital. Plus, the airport has agreed to spend $150,000 in advertising for the new flight and waive 100% of landing and office fees in the first year, then 75% in the second. The last international passenger flight out of the Laredo International Airport was an Aeromexico service to Monterrey in 2013. Aeromexico pulled the flight after less than a year due to low ridership. This new flight has a capacity of 72 passengers and will be offered three times a week. Fares begin at $300 round trip. Julia Wallace may be reached at 956-728-2543 or jwallace@lmtonline.com New York: New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said that he was ordering schools in certain New York City neighbourhoods to close within a day in an attempt to halt a flare-up of the coronavirus. The Governor took the action a day after the city's mayor, Bill de Blasio, asked the state for permission to reinstate restrictions on businesses and schools in nine postcodes in Brooklyn and Queens where the virus was spreading more quickly. Governor Andrew Cuomo ordered schools to close in some hotspot areas of New York City. Credit:AP Cuomo said the closures would take place by Tuesday, a day ahead of when the mayor wanted. "These clusters have to be attacked," Cuomo said, likening the state to a field of dry grass ready to ignite if burning embers aren't put out fast. Shipyard workers and members of the Canadian Coast Guard were exposed to lead paint for months, without any protective equipment, even as their employers had strong reasons to believe the vessels they worked on were contaminated with the heavy metal, a Radio-Canada investigation has found. The ships in question are Canadian Coast Guard ships Jean Goodwill and Vincent Massey. The Coast Guard acquired them, along with a third vessel, the Captain Molly Kool, from Sweden through Chantier Davie Canada Inc. in 2018 as part of a $610-million icebreaker procurement. The three ships arrived at the Davie yards in Levis, Que., in the late summer of 2018, to undergo various modifications. Davie subsequently delivered CGCS Captain Molly Kool that December, while the other two ships, which required more extensive modifications, remain in dry-dock. Work on the Goodwill and Massey was halted in February 2020 after a Coast Guard risk assessment revealed paint containing lead on both ships. By then, the Coast Guard and Davie had known for months that paint on the Captain Molly Kool which was examined for toxic materials in August of 2019, nine months after it went into service contained traces of lead. Conclusive results arrived in October of 2019. "The results of the risk assessment were communicated the same day to Chantier Davie Canada Inc.," the federal agency said in an statement emailed to Radio-Canada. Yet measures to guard against shipyard workers' exposure to lead weren't put into place until after work was halted Feb. 12. In short, dozens were unwittingly in the presence of lead particles for more than a year. Severe illness can result from contact with lead, including brain and nervous system damage. Health Canada's website says "currently there is no known safe level of lead exposure." When the Coast Guard and Davie found out there was a problem on the Captain Molly Kool, it took an additional four months before work was paused on the other ships. Story continues Multiple maritime industry sources said the Coast Guard and Davie should immediately have suspected that the other two icebreakers which are built to identical specifications contained lead, and should have acted accordingly. But the question of who's responsible for the potentially dangerous safety lapse appears to be a matter of debate. Marc Godbout/Radio-Canada Workers 'needlessly exposed' to lead The Coast Guard, which declined Radio-Canada's interview request, did not compile a detailed inventory of possible risks prior to buying the vessels, or before they were handed over to Davie. The agency said it had foreseen conducting inspections "after they were delivered and entered into the fleet," as it eventually did with the Captain Molly Kool. The federal government did send several teams to Sweden prior to the contracts being signed to determine whether they ships met the Coast Guard's "operational and technical requirements." Once the contracts were inked, in the summer of 2018, the agency said it "sent various personnel both on board the ships and on the ground in Sweden to familiarize themselves with the vessels, to train, and to acquire practical knowledge during their transit to Canada." But according to the Coast Guard, no efforts were made to check for the presence of toxic materials. Those trips represent a wasted opportunity, according to retired Canadian Coast Guard marine engineering officer Francois Fournier. "When a ship is of interest, they can go a little deeper by asking for reports on asbestos, mercury or lead," he said. "I think that would have been a good way to check." The Coast Guard also wasn't oblivious to the prospect lead pain might be discovered on the vessels. In its email, the Coast Guard acknowledged older vessels often have one or more coats of lead paint, adding "every industry that looks after these ships is conscious of that possibility." Workers were "needlessly exposed" to lead, Fournier said. The shipyard's responsibility? The Coast Guard contends it was the Davie shipyard's responsibility, as the intermediary in the transaction, to conduct a detailed risk assessment before the overhaul work began, the emailed statement said. But two sources, one of whom has extensive experience in the shipbuilding industry, told Radio-Canada that when the Coast Guard gave the icebreaker contract to Davie, the federal agency assumed full responsibility for the risks. When that assertion was put to the Coast Guard, it directed Radio-Canada to another federal department, Public Services and Procurement Canada. The ministry answered: "We cannot comment on this issue because it involves privileged communications of a commercial nature between Chantier Davie Canada Inc. and [the government of] Canada." When the Coast Guard learned about the lead paint, it didn't recommend Davie take special steps to mitigate potential contamination risks. When asked why, the federal agency again pointed to its contractor. "Chantier Davie Canada Inc. has lengthy experience in ship repair and the maintenance of older vessels, and understands its responsibilities and obligations in terms of environmental procedures including the identification and disposal of all potential pollutants and hazardous materials," the agency said. Davie says it acted prudently Chantier Davie Canada also declined Radio-Canada's interview requests. Frederik Boisvert, the shipbuilder's vice-president of public affairs, said in a written statement that the company took all reasonable precautions. "As the leading shipbuilder in Canada and a major employer in Quebec, the safety of our employees and our workplace is Chantier Davie's top priority," he wrote. "We can confirm the situation in question has been managed with care, with no negative impacts on the health of our employees." The letter says Davie ordered an immediate stop to work the moment it received confirmation of the presence of lead in February. Radio-Canada The company then called in a specialized safety consultant and instituted protective measures. In addition, Boisvert indicated 400 of workers underwent testing to measure the lead content in their blood at a private clinic, in collaboration with the public health department. None of them had abnormally high levels of the metal, the company said. But the Davie letter doesn't address the four-month gap between the Captain Molly Kool test results and work halting on the other ships. The company's letter neither blames nor criticizes the Canadian Coast Guard, nor does it admit to any shortcomings on its part relative to safety regulations or due diligence. Davie did not comment on the Coast Guard's contention that it was the shipyard's responsibility to ensure there were no lead problems before beginning its work. What did Swedish company know? The technical specifications the Swedish company provided to the Coast Guard during the sale process made no mention of lead hazards, the agency said. Radio-Canada contacted Viking Supply Ships, a publicly traded shipping concern headquartered in Stenungsund, Sweden, numerous times seeking comment, but the company has yet to respond. Even if information was omitted or withheld, it doesn't absolve either the government agency or Davie from their responsibilities, according to multiple industry sources. One of those sources, an active member of the Coast Guard, said both parties had the obligation to ensure the newly acquired icebreakers were free of lead contamination. Radio-Canada "Yes, in compliance with health and safety regulations and best due diligence practices in the workplace, both parties are responsible," said the employee, who requested their name and position be withheld. This isn't the first time the Coast Guard has found problems with lead, the employee said. In the last three years, the presence of lead in paint has also been detected on CCGS Amundsen, CCGS Hudson and CCGS George R. Pearkes, according to documents obtained by Radio-Canada. All three ships are Canadian-built and have been in service between 35 and 60 years. The source said the Coast Guard "absolutely" should have suspected there was an issue after finding out about the Captain Molly Kool. 'I find them highly irresponsible' The Union of Canadian Transport Employees' regional vice-president for Quebec, which represents both the Coast Guard's sailors and civilian employees, shares that view. Francois Paradis, whose union includes members at the Davie shipyard, lamented the fact similar incidents continue to occur despite laws aimed at preventing them. "There are folks who need to accept responsibility," Paradis said. "We're preoccupied with the health and safety of our members. Well, the shipyards and the Coast Guard don't seem quite as preoccupied." Employees at Davie are represented by three unions, all affiliated with the Confederation des syndicats nationaux (CSN). According to the president of the CSN central council for Quebec-Chaudiere-Appalaches, Ann Gingras, it was the Coast Guard's responsibility to inspect the ships before they entered Canada. "I find them highly irresponsible," she said. When Gingras learned Davie had been informed in October of 2019 about the lead problem on the Captain Molly Kool, she amended her opinion: "In my view there's a shared responsibility," she said, in an interview. Work resumed on the Goodwill and Massey during the week of March 23. The provincial workplace safety board and public health authorities will conduct safety audits to ensure the measures are being followed, and that they adequately protect the workers. Chinese consumers appear to be spending more money during the National Day holiday than last year. On the first two days of the eight-day holiday, Chinese consumers spent 628 billion yuan ($92.6 billion) by UnionPay card, up 11.8 percent year-on-year, according to UnionPay. On National Day, Oct 1, which overlapped with the Mid-Autumn Festival this year, transaction volume recorded by UnionPay reached 330 billion yuan, up 15.5 percent on a yearly basis, it found. "With the recovery of tourists' confidence, higher travel demand will be activated in the country. Trips to western China, island tours, and tailored road trips are expected to become important forces that help the recovery of the tourism sector after COVID-19," said Gou Zhipeng, president of Qunar, a Beijing-based online travel agency. The rare extended National Day holiday has been the longest public vacation since the outbreak of the virus earlier this year. Longdistance trips and tours of western parts of China have seen growing popularity. The Tibet autonomous region, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region and Ningxia Hui autonomous region were the areas that saw the fastest growth of spending on a yearly basis in the first two days, the UnionPay data found. "With vast land and lower population density, western China fits with the psychology of tourists to avoid crowds in the post-epidemic period," said Zhang Jinshan, a tourism industry professor at Beijing Union University. "In recent years, the National Day holidays were often peak periods for international trips. Due to the pandemic this year, Chinese tourists chose long-distance domestic trips instead, and it helped the western region to gain popularity," Zhang said. On the first two days of the eight-day holiday, tourists' spending volume on hotels in Tibet more than doubled year-on-year, while spending on catering grew 49 percent. In Xinjiang, the amount spent on flight tickets tripled, and spending on admission tickets for sightseeing spots in Ningxia increased by 20 percent, according to UnionPay. Meanwhile, Chinese consumers have shown continued enthusiasm for the Shanghai Disneyland theme park. For bed-and-breakfast homestays within 3 kilometers of the park, their average price was higher than 1,000 yuan per night during the holiday, Qunar found. About 550 million people are forecast to take domestic trips during the holiday, about 70 percent of the level seen last year, according to an earlier estimate by China Tourism Academy. With half of the holiday over, some flight tickets and hotels have reduced prices. For instance, on Oct 5, a one-way flight from Beijing to Lijiang, Yunnan province, was 396 yuan. A one-way flight from Beijing to Sanya, Hainan province, was selling for 445 yuan. Prices of flights from Shanghai to some top domestic tourism destinations also dropped, according to Qunar. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi flagged off a tractor rally in Punjab on Sunday to protest against the Centres recently enacted agriculture laws. Gandhi arrived in Moga for holding tractor rallies across Punjab from October 4 till 6. The rallies, which have been named Kheti Bachao Yatra, would cover more than 50 km, spread over three days in various districts and constituencies. As the rally saw support from ministers and farmers, Gandhi scion was photographed on a customised tractor with a make-shift sofa seat to give him a ride during his rally. In no time, trolls took notice of the pic and compared Gandhis unusual" seating arrangement on the tractor to the scene from popular British sitcom Mr Bean wherein Rowan Atkinson, who portrayed Mr Bean character, comically drives his car through the town while sitting atop of it on a sofa. Calling Mr Bean a better actor", Gandhis photo soon went viral on microblogging site Twitter. Atleast Mr.Bean is a better actor..!! pic.twitter.com/veu6PnUbPn Rahul Anand (@Rahul_saffron) October 5, 2020 Mr. Bean The Mr. Rahul TheActor Overactor pic.twitter.com/bSapjvHC8B Chhoro Marwadi (@ChhoroMarwadi) October 5, 2020 Indian version of Mr Bean pic.twitter.com/KwT4TJsJ0o Shivani Sharma (@Shivani2297) October 5, 2020 Mr. Bean Mr. Could never have been pic.twitter.com/FltzJZtTuS Yo Yo Funny Singh (@moronhumor) October 5, 2020 Mr Bean and Mr PAPPU pic.twitter.com/xqsjrISOHH Rosy (@rose_k01) October 4, 2020 Meanwhile, Gandhi is said to visit Haryana on October 6 and 7 to continue the tractor rallies. On the first day, his rally will enter Pehowa in Haryana from Punjab border. In Pehowa, he will address the people, state Congress president Kumari Selja said. After this, Rahul Gandhi will go to Kurukshetra and halt there for the night. His journey will start from Pipli Mandi next morning from where he will proceed to Nilokheri and after that he will go to Karnal, where the tractor rally will culminate, she said. Selja said Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders have been raising the issues of farmers, workers and common people. (With PTI inputs) Asking Congress to refrain from creating a law and order problem during Rahul Gandhis Haryana visit, chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Monday said the state government doesnt have any reservation if the former Congress president holds tractor rallies and road shows with people of Haryana. Rahul will be in the state on a one-day tour on Tuesday to protest against the Centres newly enacted farm laws. Rahul Gandhi will now be on a one-day tour instead of two, Haryana Pradesh Congress Committee president Kumari Selja announced on Twitter on Monday evening. He will step inside the state territory from Punjab via Devigarh border of Patiala from where he will lead a tractor rally up to Pehowa in Kurukshetra. As there are apprehensions of possible law and order situation emerging in case Congress leader is accompanied by a huge Punjab crowd while entering Haryana, Khattar clearly expressed reservations over large number of people coming from Punjab to Haryana along with Rahul. Not acceptable if he comes to Haryana along with a big procession from Punjab. We have no problem with his visit if he holds his yatra along with the people of Haryana as this is his own tour, the chief minister said, when asked about home minister Anil Vij previous statement that Congress leader will not be allowed to enter Haryana. Stating that in a democratic set up, everybody had the right to air views, Khattar said the state government was not opposed to the upcoming visit of the Congress leader. They should not vitiate the atmosphere and must not take law and order in their hands, Khattar said as the opposition Congress set into motion a flurry of activities to give a rousing reception to Rahul on his arrival in Haryana on Tuesday. Top government officials also said there was no plan to stop Rahul Gandhi from entering the state. However, Congress supporters from Punjab will not be allowed to enter Haryana with the procession, they added. The officials further said the permission to hold processions will be subject to the Union ministry of home affairs cap of gathering of up to 100 persons outside containment zones. At Pehowa, the state Congress has planned a show of strength where the party leader will address the farmers. After the Pehowa rally, Rahul will travel to Kurukshetra. He was earlier supposed to embark on a road show from Pipli grain market on Wednesday, but his plan has been curtailed. Party Supporters Swing into Action The Congress had on Sunday swung into action and held meetings to mobilise support and ensure a huge gathering. As per the reports, police have been deployed on the Haryana-Punjab border from where Rahul Gandhi will enter the state. Kurukshetra SP Rajesh Duggal refused to divulge details, but it has been learnt that Haryana government has decided that tractors from Punjab will not be allowed to enter the state. Meanwhile, Selja convened a meeting in Kurukshetra and urged party workers to bring their tractors and ensure huge gatherings at the road shows. Why are the BJP leaders scared of Rahuls visit....why are they saying that they will not allow him to enter the state? Selja questioned, reacting to the reported remarks of home minister Anil Vij. He is a grandson of Indira Gandhi and son of Rajiv Gandhi. We will see how this government will stop him, she added. PHOENIX, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Bradford Lund, grandson of the late Walt Disney, recently, through his counsel, participated in oral argument to the Arizona Appellate Court following briefing where he is seeking to overturn the dismissal of a lawsuit against Arizona attorney Bryan Murphy, and his firm. Lund's lawyer argued that Murphy should not be allowed to escape liability on a "statute of limitations" argument that didn't apply to this case. Rather, Lund likened the harm caused by Murphy to pollution cases, trespass cases, and domestic violence cases which are often defined as "continuing torts" and cannot be subject to a statute of limitations argument to save the wrongdoer, until the harm itself is finally abated. Thus, Lund argued, the statute of limitations did not begin to run until Murphy and his firm were finally removed from the case. Lund alleged in his December 2016 lawsuit that attorney Murphy and his law firm of Burch & Cracchiolo, which represented Lund's estranged relatives in an ultimately failed guardianship/conservatorship case, committed "abuse of [judicial] process" due to Murphy's improper possession, disclosure, and utilization of Lund's confidential and "privileged" legal file which was delivered to him in error by Lund's former estate planning firm. Upon discovery of the privileged material, instead of merely returning the file back unexamined, or destroying the copy, an action that Lund alleged was his duty, Lund's filing, in a brief to the Arizona Court of Appeals, describes what happened next: "[I]n an atmosphere of scorched-earth killer litigation, even after being advised by Mr. Lund's then counsel that the file should not have been disclosed to him, [Murphy] refused to destroy or return the file as requested. Instead, [Murphy] almost immediately examined every page, disclosed it to key participants of the litigation including the guardian ad litem, court appointed investigator, and multiple others. [Murphy] also went on to make notes about intimate confidential portions of the file. Armed with this improper information which he never should have even set eyes upon, [Murphy] remained as adversarial counsel in Mr. Lund's highly acrimonious case. Lund Opening Brief, pages 1-2 (Emph. added). Murphy was subsequently disciplined in the form of an "admonishment" for this same conduct. Lund alleges it took years of legal wrangling and challenges by Murphy and his firm before the trial judge finally granted Lund's demand for disqualification of them, and, in so doing, found in pertinent part: "if disqualification is denied, [Lund] will be in litigation against an adversary who is armed with the knowledge of the advice that his own prior counsel gave to him. Litigating against a party who possesses such an advantage is antithetical to the values of an adversary system. While the burdens placed on Petitioners would be, in the final analysis, only financial, quantifiable, and their choice to bear, the burdens faced by Mr. Lund would be those of a system failure, incalculable, and beyond his ability to fully know." Disqualification Ruling by Judge Bassett, page 5. (Emph. added). Lund's filings compare Murphy's actions to "noxious pollution spewing through the air," meaning that the pollution continues and thus no "statute of limitations" is applicable until the "pollution" itself is abated. The brief on appeal stated: "The poisonous 'tactical advantage' of [Murphy] continueduntil the fatal wound to justice was finally abated by the removal of [Murphy and his firm] as lawyers in the case." Indeed, in arguing for his day in court, Mr. Lund alleges that damages to him continue to this day and will be proven to be "irreparable" at a jury trial. Contact: Alex Lange [email protected] (202) 480-4309 SOURCE Lanny Davis New Jersey would suspend bear hunting starting in 2021 under a plan announced Monday by Gov. Phil Murphy. Murphy said during his latest coronavirus briefing in Trenton that the state Fish and Game Council, which in 2015 approved annual bear hunts as part of a 5-year management plan, is considering an amendment that would suspend it upon the conclusion of this years hunt. This means, drum roll, that the 2020 bear hunt already limited to a few days in October and December and, pursuant to my 2018 executive order, not permitted on state lands will be the last bear hunt under my administration, the governor said. In response to Murphys announcement, longtime Fish and Game Council member Phil Brodhecker said he stands by his support for bear hunting. I see absolutely zero possibility of not having a bear hunt, and having an effective bear management plan, Brodhecker told NJ Advance Media. Farmer are seeing more damage this year to their crops than weve ever had, added Brodhecker, a farmer in Sussex County. The 2020 hunt begins next Monday in parts of Sussex, Morris, Warren, Passaic, Bergen, Hunterdon, Somerset and Mercer counties. Murphy is a longtime critic of the bear hunt, held annually since 2010, and pledged to end it while running for governor. His executive order in 2018 barred bear hunting in state parks, forests and recreation areas. As I have noted in the past, this is a complex issue, and one that my team and Commissioner Catherine McCabe and the Department of Environmental Protection have been looking at carefully in partnership with the New Jersey Fish and Game Council, which actually has the authority over the hunt, Murphy said. The Fish and Game Councils 11 members two seats are vacant are appointed by the governor, subject to Senate confirmation. Suspending the bear hunt, Murphy said, will allow the Council and Department of Environmental Protection to engage in a thorough and complete review of current scientific data in developing a new black bear policy that promotes public safety and welfare while protecting important wildlife with a focus on non-lethal bear-management techniques. I am grateful to the Fish and Game Council for their commitment to working with the DEP to address this issue and to chart a better way forward, Murphy said. Brodhecker was appointed by then-Gov. Chris Christie about nine years ago and said his replacement is awaiting Senate approval. Im all for working on non-lethal methods of bear management, but theres absolutely no substitute for reducing the population, Brodhecker said in support of the hunt. The Fish and Game Council is meeting next week, Brodhecker said. Im sure thats going to be the topic of discussion, he said of Murphys announcement. Bear hunting has been a volatile issue in New Jersey, pitting hunters against animal rights activists, and was championed by Christie. The hunt resumed in New Jersey in 2003 following a moratorium of nearly three decades, instituted after the population neared extinction in the early 1970s. A total of 315 bears were killed in the 2019 hunt. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Rob Jennings may be reached at rjennings@njadvancemedia.com. We each have our role models that inspire us to reach for goals and be the best version of ourselves. Among leaders that are most looked up to, Warren Buffett is at the top of many lists. Buffett is almost synonymous with success, but theres more to it than his investment strategies. In a recent Inc. column shared with me by my father-in-law Earle Keirstead (who is always sharing great pieces with me) leadership expert Marcel Schwantes highlights four principles from Buffett that distinguish people who get things done from those who simply dream of big accomplishments. The key, Schwantes says, is act[ing] on them with positive intent. Pick your friends wisely. In one of my recent blog posts, I warned against the influence bad employees can have on the rest of the team. We mirror the behavior of people around us, so why would you surround yourself with friends that limit your potential? Common interests and values are what bring us together, and, as Buffett has said, its important to associate with people that are better than yourself. By doing this, theyll motivate you to be better. Go to bed a little smarter each day. Curiosity and continuous learning are key characteristics of great leaders. No matter how busy your schedule is, set aside time to read about the things that will strengthen your leadership and make you better at your job. And encourage your team to do the same. NASA's Aqua satellite analyzed Tropical Storm Delta in infrared imagery as it moved through the Caribbean Sea. The imagery provided cloud top temperatures to identify the strongest areas within the storm. Potential Tropical Cyclone 26 formed in the Caribbean Sea on Sunday, Oct. 4 by 5 p.m. EDT. Six hours later, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) classified it as Tropical Depression 26. By 8 a.m. EDT, satellite imagery helped confirm that the depression had strengthened into a tropical storm. At that time, it was given the name Delta. Analyzing Delta's Temperatures and Strength One of the ways NASA researches tropical cyclones is using infrared data that provides temperature information. The AIRS instrument aboard NASA's Aqua satellite captured a look at those temperatures in Delta and gave insight into the size of the storm and its rainfall potential. Tropical cyclones do not always have uniform strength, and some sides have stronger sides than others. The stronger the storms, the higher they extend into the troposphere, and the colder the cloud top temperatures. NASA provides that data to forecasters at NOAA's National Hurricane Center or NHC so they can incorporate in their forecasting. On Oct. 5 at 3:05 a.m. EDT (0705 UTC) NASA's Aqua satellite analyzed Tropical Storm Delta using the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder or AIRS instrument. AIRS found coldest cloud top temperatures as cold as or colder than (purple) minus 63 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 53 degrees Celsius) around the center of circulation. NASA research has shown that cloud top temperatures that cold indicate strong storms that have the capability to create heavy rain. When meteorologists studied satellite imagery, including infrared imagery, it was noted that deep convection (rising air that forms the thunderstorms that make up a tropical cyclone) had been steadily improving in both vertical depth and structure of the storm since 2 a.m. EDT. Even the cloud pattern was becoming more circular with upper-level outflow of air at the top of the storm now having become established in all quadrants. That is an indication of improvement in a storm's structure. NHC noted, "However, there are still some indications in satellite imagery that the low-level and the mid-upper-level circulations are not yet vertically aligned, with the low-level center still located just inside the northern edge of the convective cloud shield." Eight hours after the AIRS image, the convective structure of Delta continued to improve. Earlier microwave data and early-light visible satellite imagery showed that the center of the tropical cyclone re-formed farther south within the area of deep convection. Warnings and Watches on Oct. 5 NOAA's National Hurricane Center has issued a number of watches and warnings for Delta on Oct. 5. A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Cuba's province of Pinar del Rio. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for the Cayman Islands including Little Cayman and Cayman Brac, and for the Isle of Youth. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for the Cuban province of Artemisa and for the Isle of Youth. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for the Cuban province of La Habana. Delta's Status At 11 a.m. EDT (1500 UTC) on Oct. 5, the center of Tropical Storm Delta was located near latitude 16.4 degrees north and longitude 78.6 degrees west. Delta is centered about 135 miles (215 km) south of Negril, Jamaica and about 265 miles (425 km) southeast of Grand Cayman. Delta is moving toward the west near 7 mph (11 kph), and a turn toward the west-northwest is forecast later today. A faster northwestward motion is expected on Tuesday (Oct. 6) and Wednesday (Oct. 7). Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 45 mph (75 kph) with higher gusts. The estimated minimum central pressure is 1002 millibars. Delta's Forecast NHC expects additional strengthening during the next few days, and Delta is expected to become a hurricane on Tuesday before it nears western Cuba. On the forecast track, the center of Delta is expected to move away from Jamaica later today, move near or over the Cayman Islands early Tuesday, and approach western Cuba Tuesday afternoon or evening. Delta is forecast to move into the southeastern Gulf of Mexico Tuesday night, and be over the south-central Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday. ### About NASA's AIRS Instrument The AIRS instrument is one of six instruments flying on board NASA's Aqua satellite, launched on May 4, 2002. AIRS, in conjunction with the Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit (AMSU), senses emitted infrared and microwave radiation from Earth to provide a three-dimensional look at Earth's weather and climate. Working in tandem, the two instruments make simultaneous observations down to Earth's surface. With more than 2,000 channels sensing different regions of the atmosphere, the system creates a global, three-dimensional map of atmospheric temperature and humidity, cloud amounts and heights, greenhouse gas concentrations and many other atmospheric phenomena. Launched into Earth orbit in 2002, the AIRS and AMSU instruments fly aboard NASA's Aqua spacecraft. They are managed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Southern California, under contract to NASA. JPL is a division of Caltech. NASA Research For more than five decades, NASA has used the vantage point of space to understand and explore our home planet, improve lives and safeguard our future. NASA brings together technology, science, and unique global Earth observations to provide societal benefits and strengthen our nation. Advancing knowledge of our home planet contributes directly to America's leadership in space and scientific exploration. For updated forecasts, visit: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov More information about AIRS can be found at: https://airs.jpl.nasa.gov/ By Rob Gutro NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center Lockdown measures have been slow to come in because of squabbles between local and national government - REUTERS/Sergio Perez Health experts in Spain have united in despair at the countrys political class, which they say is failing to put scientific criteria above partisan power struggles in the battle to stem Europes worst Covid-19 second wave. In the midst of an ongoing squabble between Spains Left-wing national government and the conservative administration in Madrid over lockdown measures in the capital, 55 medical associations have launched a joint manifesto demanding that Spanish politicians start cooperating to develop science-based policies. The Madrid region was forced last week by Spains health ministry to place the capital under a perimeter lockdown, but the local administration claims the restriction will not be effective and has asked a court to suspend it as an invasion of its competences that will do irreparable damage to the economy. But health experts in Spain say the Madrid regional government was being irresponsible in acting too slowly against a spiralling rise in cases. In Madrid we have seen a disgraceful spectacle. Many of the decisions that have been taken have no scientific basis, and action has come too late after the signs were clear earlier that the situation was no under control, said Jesus Molina, secretary of the Spanish Society for Preventive Medicine, Public Health and Hygiene, one of the associations behind the manifesto. As the caseload and pressure on hospitals rose in Madrid last month without the regional government taking decisive action, Spains government came up with limits that would automatically trigger perimeter lockdowns, including a cumulative 14-day caseload of 500 positives per 100,000 inhabitants and a positivity rate in tests above 10 per cent. More than 22,000 people signed the manifesto in the first 24 hours after it was posted on an online petition site. These limits are lax and arbitrary, Dr Molina told the Cadena Ser radio station, noting that other countries have taken stricter steps long before reaching such high levels of infection. Story continues The Czech Republic has declared a state of emergency and closed secondary schools, among other measures, with a lower level of infection than Spain. Healthcare workers have protested cuts and privatisation of the health system in Madrid - Vactor Lerena/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Frances maximum alert level is triggered when the infection rate in an area reaches 250 per 100,000, a limit that saw Marseille close bars and restaurants last week, with Paris due to shut bars on Tuesday. Under the rules imposed on Madrid, which has a 14-day incidence of 648 per 100,000 inhabitants, bars can still open until 11pm with 50 per cent capacity. Among the 10 points of the manifesto entitled In healthcare, you rule but you dont understand, the associations that together represent 170,000 healthcare professionals in Spain ask for a national protocol to deal with the Covid crisis, drawn from exclusively scientific fundamentals, without the least political interference or pressure. BENGALURU, India and PRAGUE, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Infosys [https://www.infosys.com/] , a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, today announced that it has completed the acquisition of GuideVision [https://apc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%...], one of the largest ServiceNow Elite Partners in Europe and an award winning enterprise service management consultancy specialised in offering strategic advisory, consulting, implementations, training and support on the ServiceNow platform. This follows the announcement [https://www.infosys.com/newsroom/press-releases/2020/acquire...] the company made on September 14, 2020. https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/633365/Infosys_Logo.jpg [https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/633365/Infosys_Logo.jpg] Through this acquisition, Infosys further enhances its digital capabilities, strengthens Infosys Cobalt portfolio of cloud services and reaffirms commitment to the growing ServiceNow ecosystem. GuideVision brings to Infosys, end-to-end offerings, including SnowMirror - a proprietary smart data replication tool for ServiceNow instances - that enables over 100 enterprise clients to simplify complex business and IT processes. GuideVision's training academy and nearshore capabilities in Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and presence in Germany and Finland strengthens Infosys' ServiceNow capabilities, offering clients in Europe unparalleled capabilities in cloud-first digital transformation. ServiceNow is one of the fastest growing enterprise software companies, and is becoming an 'essential service' and workflow standard for organizations. Infosys was recognized by ServiceNow as the 2019 and 2020 ServiceNow Global Service Provider Partner of the Year. Infosys is excited to welcome GuideVision and its leadership team. ServiceNow, Now Platform and others are among the trademarks of ServiceNow, Inc. About Guidevision GuideVision is a dynamic and progressive consultancy committed to enabling clients to reimagine and transform their enterprise service management with ServiceNow. GuideVision offers a unique combination of strategic expertise, innovative technological knowledge and agile methodology. Our mission is to make ServiceNow work for you and your goals. www.guidevision.eu [http://www.guidevision.eu/] About Infosys Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting. We enable clients in 46 countries to navigate their digital transformation. With nearly four decades of experience in managing the systems and workings of global enterprises, we expertly steer our clients through their digital journey. We do it by enabling the enterprise with an AI-powered core that helps prioritize the execution of change. We also empower the business with agile digital at scale to deliver unprecedented levels of performance and customer delight. Our always-on learning agenda drives their continuous improvement through building and transferring digital skills, expertise, and ideas from our innovation ecosystem. Visit www.infosys.com [https://www.infosys.com/en.html] to see how Infosys can help your enterprise navigate your next. Safe Harbor Certain statements in this release concerning our future growth prospects, financial expectations and plans for navigating the COVID-19 impact on our employees, clients and stakeholders are forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the 'safe harbor' under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding COVID-19 and the effects of government and other measures seeking to contain its spread, risks related to an economic downturn or recession in India, the United States and other countries around the world, changes in political, business, and economic conditions, fluctuations in earnings, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, our ability to manage growth, intense competition in IT services including those factors which may affect our cost advantage, wage increases in India, our ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, time and cost overruns on fixed-price, fixed-time frame contracts, client concentration, restrictions on immigration, industry segment concentration, our ability to manage our international operations, reduced demand for technology in our key focus areas, disruptions in telecommunication networks or system failures, our ability to successfully complete and integrate potential acquisitions, liability for damages on our service contracts, the success of the companies in which Infosys has made strategic investments, withdrawal or expiration of governmental fiscal incentives, political instability and regional conflicts, legal restrictions on raising capital or acquiring companies outside India, unauthorized use of our intellectual property and general economic conditions affecting our industry and the outcome of pending litigation and government investigation. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our United States Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020. These filings are available at www.sec.gov [https://www.sec.gov/]. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company unless it is required by law. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/633365/Infosys_Logo.jpg [https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/633365/Infosys_Logo.jpg] CONTACT: For further information, please contact: PR_Global@infosys.com A woman was conned out of 1,680 when she was tricked into renting a non-existent flat by a fraudulent Airbnb website. Laura Shone, 34, found a flat in Islington listed on Facebook Marketplace for 880 a month. But when she was told the 'owner' usually rented it through Airbnb but wanted a longer tenancy due to the pandemic, she was directed to a fake website. Laura Shone (pictured with her boyfriend Roby Guizardi), 34, was conned out of 1,680 when she was tricked into renting a non-existent flat by a fraudulent Airbnb website She then received an email which asked questions about herself, her work and when she was moving in. 'He said he would send us a link to allow us to book a viewing,' Ms Shone explained. 'It didn't sound anything out of the ordinary.' The couple were asked to pay a month's rent and a deposit to view the property - which Ms Shone's boyfriend, Roby Guizardi, was unsure about. 'I was asking him to trust me because I was so excited about getting a place in Highbury and Islington for that much money,' she said. She found a flat in Islington listed on Facebook Marketplace for 880 a month. But when she was told the 'owner' usually rented it through Airbnb she was directed to a fake website which made her pay one month's rent and a deposit before being able to book a flat viewing 'That's where I was the fool. 'I feel stupid talking about it, because looking back now there were so many red flags, but at the time I didn't think it was out of the ordinary.' She got sent a link to pay through a page which looked like the spitting image of Airbnb's website. 'It had my name on it, like my AirbnB account - the scam was so clever and convincing,' she said. Confirmation emails which she received looked exactly like those from the rental website. It was only after she paid the money that she realised she had been tricked. She got sent a link to pay through a page which looked like the spitting image of Airbnb's website She said the man's responses started not making sense and he wouldn't give a time to meet at the property. 'I eventually realised it was a scam as the ''contact us'' and ''terms and conditions'' were not clickable, but by then it was too late,' she revealed. 'It had my name on it, like my AirbnB account - the scam was so clever and convincing,' she said 'The person who I had been speaking to was very responsive - there was no indication that something fishy was going on. 'When we were arranging to meet at the property that was the first time I got suspicious - he didn't give a time. 'I started to get this horrible doom over me - the wave of ''oh my God I've been scammed''.' The scammers went quiet and the website disappeared after Laura realised she'd been tricked. She contacted Action Fraud and her bank for help. Luckily she managed to get her money back through the Direct Debit Guarantee. The photos the scammers used are from a real flat in the block they advertised. It is currently listed on RightMove for 1,885 per month, 1,000 more than Laura was promised. Ms Shone said: 'If I stop it happening to one other person, and it makes other people think before transferring money then it will be worth it.' Citizens Advice found scams boomed during lockdown, with one in three Brits saying they had been targeted. There had been a 20 per cent increase in contact to their fraud helpdesk. With the boom in scams, Action Fraud and UK Finance - a group which represents the country's major banks - have launched the Take Five To Stop Fraud campaign. It reminds consumers to always take a moment to stop and think before parting with their money or information. Katy Worobec, from UK Finance, said: 'During this pandemic we have seen criminals using sophisticated methods to callously exploit people's financial concerns, impersonating trusted organisations like the NHS or HMRC, to trick them into giving away their money or information. She contacted Action Fraud and her bank for help. Luckily she managed to get her money back through the Direct Debit Guarantee 'The banking and finance industry is tackling fraud on every front, investing millions in advance technology to protect customers and working closely with the government and law enforcement to stop the criminal gangs responsible and neutralise the threat. 'We would always urge people to follow the advice of the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign to keep their money and personal information safe from fraudsters.' The Metropolitan Police also has 10 rules to avoid scams, the first being: 'Be suspicious of all ''too good to be true'' offers and deals.' India: WTO has no Right to dictate fisheries subsidies: stop selling off small -scale fishworkers' livelihood October 05,2020 | Source: NPSSFW Negotiations on fisheries subsidies have entered into the final rounds at WTO. From 5th to 9th October 2020, the WTO is holding 4 important meetings related to trade and subsidies in fisheries with the goal to wind up the final round of negotiations within 2020. The fisheries tycoons of rich countries, backed by their governments, are desperately trying to expose the small scale fishing communities to unjust and unfair competition to perpetuate their greed. The looters of fish resources of the world's oceans are now out to rob the poor small scale fishing communities of the remnants of their livelihood. Subsidies for small scale fisheries serve much more as a tool to save sustainable livelihood and fish resources than as a mechanism to influence world trade. It also helps in much more equitable distribution of income in fisheries. Thus it relates to fisheries management, thereby going beyond the mandate of WTO. Small scale fisheries cannot agree to WTO proposed denial of subsidies either in all waters or in waters beyond territorial waters. We need subsidies irrespective of the water areas. Small scale fishers are against use of destructive fishing gears (bottom trawling, purse seining, LED light fishing etc.). They demand no subsidy for destructive fishing practices. They are also against overfishing as that hits them most. But overfishing capacities have to be determined in an area specific way. It has to be kept in mind that a small fishing vessel by western standard is a large one by Indian standards. Regarding the WTO proposal to deny subsidy to IUU (illegal, unregulated and unreported) fishing practices, small scale fishers have grave reservations. In a regime where registration and licensing systems are irregular, regulations remain largely on paper and reporting of fishing efforts is almost non-existent for small scale fisheries, this would mean outlawing of traditional livelihood practices and denying them legitimate entitlements. Denial of subsidies to marine small scale fishers will have its obvious impact on inland fisheries as well by affecting fisheries of water areas interfacing inland and marine as well as by impacting market mechanisms. Besides, many fisheries subsidies relate to both marine and inland fisheries. In view of the above Indian fisheries cannot accept determination of or disciplines on subsidies by WTO. India should strongly reject any disciplines especially since it is clear that the current special and differential treatment measures cannot protect the interest of small scale Indian fishers. NPSSFW has written to Shri Piyush Goyal, Hon'ble Commerce and Industry Minister under intimation to - 1. Santiago Wills, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Colombia to the WTO, and Chair, Negotiating Group on Rules on Fisheries Subsidies. 2. Dr. Anup Wadhwan, Commerce Secretary, Government of India. 3. Mr. Brajendra Navnit, Ambassador & Permanent Representative of India to the World Trade Organisation, Geneva, Switzerland. 4. Mr. P.S. Gangadhar, Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the WTO. 5. Dr. Rajeev Ranjan, Secretary, Fisheries, Department of Fisheries, Government of India. By PTI SAHARANPUR: Former Union Minister Rasheed Masood passed away on Monday after suffering complications following his recovery from COVID-19, his nephew Imran Masood said. He was 73. Rasheed Masood had hit the headlines in 2013 when he became the first parliamentarian whose membership was stripped after he was sentenced to four years in jail. His disqualification came soon after the Supreme Court ruled that lawmakers stand immediately debarred if they are convicted for offenses that carry a sentence of more than two years. Masood was the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare with independent charge in the National Front government led by V P Singh in 1990. He died in a Roorkee nursing home, where he had been admitted recently for the management of some post-COVID-19 complications, said Imran Masood. Imran Masood, a former MLA, told PTI that his uncle Rasheed Masood had tested positive for the coronavirus infection some time back and had undergone treatment at a Delhi hospital. He had recovered from the infection there and had returned to Saharanpur, said Imran Masood. His condition, however, deteriorated again a few days ago and he was admitted to a nursing home in Roorkee where he died on Monday morning, he said. "Deeply saddened by the sad demise of veteran Parliamentarian and my family friend Rasheed Masood from Saharanpur, UP," Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad said. "I pray Almighty to give strength and courage to his family members to bear this irreparable loss. May his departed soul rest in peace," he said on Twitter. Masood had been a five-time member of the Lok Sabha from Saharanpur. He has also been a Rajya Sabha member representing the Samajwadi Party and the Congress on separate occasions. He was serving as a Rajya Sabha member, representing the Congress, when the verdict was pronounced and his membership stripped. The court had held him guilty of fraudulently nominating from the central pool undeserving candidates to MBBS seats. In his long political career, Masood had represented several political parties including Samajwadi Party, Congress, BSP, Janata Party and Lok Dal. Masood was the United National Progressive Alliance candidate for the Vice-President in 2007. Washington: Donald Trump has agreed to attend the G-7 Summit in Italy in May during his telephonic conversation with Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni, in what could be his first visit to Europe as US president. They discussed the bilateral relationship, the importance of the NATO alliance and threats to common security. Trump agreed to attend the G-7 Summit in Taormina, Italy in May, and said he looked forward to meeting with the Prime Minister at that time. During the phone call, Trump discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation across a range of shared interests, including security and counter-terrorism. President Trump reiterated the US commitment to NATO and emphasised the importance of all NATO allies sharing the monetary burden of defence spending, the White House said in a readout of the phone call. The two leaders agreed to continue close coordination and cooperation on efforts to eliminate ISIS and other terrorist organizations, it said. The leaders discussed Libya, the influx of migrants and refugees into Europe, as well as Italys priorities, and the upcoming G-7 meeting in Italy, it added. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size James Packer will take the stand on Tuesday afternoon at a NSW inquiry into Crown casino almost 30 years after the nations press watched, giddy with anticipation, when his father, Kerry, was hauled before a Senate inquiry for a grilling on media ownership. Back then, Kerry delivered a lesson in power to the senators, uttering the infamous line, If anybody in this country doesn't minimise their tax they want their head read," because, "as a government I can tell you you're not spending it that well". Now journalists, politicians and watchers of one of Australias greatest corporate dynasties will get the chance to see the younger Packer front up digitally from his super-yacht moored in the South Pacific to answer questions about the behaviour of the company he used to run, casino giant Crown Resorts. So why is the scion of one of Australias richest families facing this grilling? Whats this inquiry all about? And what is at stake for Crown's casinos? James Packer will appear before the NSW inquiry this week. What's been going on at Crown? Crown has been in crisis since June last year when The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes dropped a series of bombshell reports revealing how it went into business with figures linked to Asian organised crime gangs known as Triads, allowed itself to be used to launder drug money, and put its staff at risk of arrest in China. Advertisement The NSW Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority (ILGA) launched an inquiry with the same powers as a royal commission to investigate those revelations, alongside a controversial deal Packer struck in May last year to sell one-fifth of Crown to another casino group, Melco Resorts. The inquiry has been running public hearings, on and off, since February and has called experts, directors and board members of the company. Loading How high are the stakes? Very high. Commissioner Patricia Bergin will report back to ILGA on whether or not Crown should keep the licence for its new casino at Barangaroo, which it plans to open in December. Sydneysiders will have noticed the $2.2 billion hotel, luxury apartment and casino tower rise from the harbour banks over the past four years, and it's now the city's tallest building. The worst case scenario for Crown is it loses its licence, or the government imposes new conditions on the licence restricting how it does business, and the use of that huge building is thrown into doubt. Advertisement Crown's Barangaroo building, which is nearing completion. Credit:Wolter Peeters What are junkets and what's the problem? Crown's financial growth engine in recent years has been its international "VIP" business, built around ultra-wealthy Chinese high rollers. These VIPs can turn over tens of millions of dollars in a single visit to the ASX-listed group's casinos in Melbourne and Perth and, all going well for the company, soon Sydney. A "junket," or "junket operator" is a group that organises trips overseas to bring these high rollers to gamble. But they do much more as well. Gambling and promoting gambling is illegal in China, and so is taking large amounts of cash out of the country. So junkets also lend them money to gamble and then collect their debts once they return home. Crown's junket partnerships were highly lucrative for a time. But last year's media expose revealed how some of Crown's biggest junkets had close links to powerful organised crime syndicates. The inquiry has learnt that Crown cant say it didnt know it was warned about its junkets' criminal links in internal due diligence reports dating back to 2014, but it kept doing business with them anyway. Why is money laundering an issue? Criminals are attracted to casinos because they can disguise the proceeds of crime as legitimate income. Drug traffickers can swap dirty cash for gambling chips and then have the casino deposit their "winnings" into a bank account, making drug money appear to be the proceeds from a lucky night at the baccarat table. Advertisement It's highly illegal, and the inquiry has shown how Crown repeatedly failed to stop this from happening. Some of the most damning evidence relates to two shell companies Crown set up called Southbank Investments and Riverbank Investments, which it used to open bank accounts into which patrons could deposit money. Roy Moo, right, on surveillance footage piling cash onto the counter at Crown casino in Melbourne. This recording was presented in court. This masthead revealed last year that drug traffickers used these accounts to launder dirty cash, which caught the eye of law enforcement agencies. The inquiry has uncovered that several major banks also raised concerns after they identified a string of large cash deposits into the accounts which had all the hallmarks of money laundering. ANZ shut the accounts in 2014 because they were so concerned, but Crown simply opened new accounts, which operated the same way, with the Commonwealth Bank. CBA shut down the accounts last year after detecting the same suspicious activity. When this masthead first wrote about the Southbank and Riverbank accounts, Crown told us that transactions through them were "subject to all of our usual reporting obligations, including our obligations under AML/CTF [anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism financing] legislation." But under questioning at the inquiry, Crown chief executive Ken Barton agreed that statement was "entirely incorrect" because Crown did not register the shell companies as "reporting entities" with the anti-money laundering watchdog AUSTRAC, even after AUSTRAC queried Crown about them. Advertisement The inquiry has also examined evidence of money laundering inside the private gaming room at Crown Melbourne operated by one of Crown's most important junket partners, Suncity, which is run by the accused former 14K triad member Alvin Chau. Counsel assisting the inquiry Naomi Sharp, SC, said this room operated as an "island of immunity" from anti-money laundering controls and video footage showed large bundles of cash being handed over in the room from a blue cooler bag. Crown told the inquiry it once discovered $5.6 million in cash stored in a cupboard there which sent "money-laundering alarms ringing". Despite that, Crown kept working with Suncity up to early this year, until the COVID-19 pandemic closed Australia's borders. It has not ruled out working with Suncity in the future. What about the China arrests? In October 2016, Chinese police arrested 19 Crown staff members and charged them with illegally promoting gambling in the country. Sixteen of them spent nine to 10 months in jail. The scandal caused Crowns share price to plummet, triggered its exit from an Asian joint venture and sparked a shareholder class action that is under way seeking hundreds of millions of dollars. Advertisement - The skirmishes that erupted at Kenol town ahead of Deputy President William Ruto's visit to the area left two peoples dead and several others nursing injuries - Mwenda called out local leaders for using youths to cause mayhem instead of empowering them - The former student leader called on Inspector General of Police to arrest all those who were linked to the violence PAY ATTENTION: Click 'See First' under 'Follow' Tab to see Tuko.co.ke news on your FB feed Vocal Mt Kenya youth leader Moses Mwenda has strongly condemned the ugly political confrontations that were witnessed at Kenol town in Murang'a county over the weekend. Mt Kenya youth leader Moses Mwenda during a past press briefing. Photo: Moses Mwenda. Source: Facebook Sad and disheartening The skirmishes that erupted ahead of Deputy President William Ruto's visit to the area left two peoples dead and several others nursing injuries. Mwenda who spoke to TUKO.co.ke regretted that the incident claimed the lives of two youthful Kenyans and disrupted businesses of many struggling entrepreneurs of Kenol town. "The perpetrators and sponsors of the skirmishes we witnessed at Kenol town must be brought to book with immediate effect. It is sad and disheartening that we have started to lose lives of young, ambitious and vibrant Kenyans at this earlier stage, two years to the next General Election," said Mwenda in a phone interview with TUKO.co.ke. The former student leader asked Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai to arrest all those who have been linked to the altercation. "I have heard the IG has issued a warrant of arrest against MPs Ndindi Nyoro and Alice Wahome, it is funny because we have other leaders who have been linked to that deadly confrontation such as Sabina Chege, Maina Kamanda and Wambugu Ngunjiri who are yet to be summoned. Why should you arrest the victim and leave the perpetrastor? They must be arrested as well," said the youth leader. Deputy President William Ruto with Mt Kenya Youth leader Moses Mwenda. Photo: Moses Mwenda. Source: Facebook 10-day ultimatum Mwenda who is a close of the deputy president and a vibrant grassroots mobiliser gave the IG a 10-day ultimatum to arrest all leaders and individuals mentioned in the unfortunate incident or risk facing the wrath of youths from Mt Kenya region. "The IG may have acted basing on the initial information he received but we want him to dig deeper and find the real culprits, he has all the resources and powers at his disposal. The question people are asking themselves is why only Ruto's allies? And why would they organise a protest against their own leader? By the way the people who engaged in the protest are youths and I can tell you as their leader I was not aware of such a thing," said the youthful politician. Blame church leaders Mwenda also defended Ruto's church donations saying the people who should be blamed are church leaders who keep on inviting him to fundraisers. The flamboyant businessman accused a section of DP's critics of doublespeak and inconsistency in their utterances. "It is hypocritical for some of the DP's critics to deny sponsoring violence at Kenol town and at the same time complain so bitterly about his church donations. If they were not happy with his church tours in the first place, then that should tell you why they are potential suspects in this matter," said the law student. Murang'a Woman Rep Sabina Chege who was accused by a section of Ruto's allies of staging the scene is among the leaders who took issues with the DP's endless church donations. Jubilee Party Vice Chairman David Murathe also called out the second in command for his penchant to bankroll churches in Mt Kenya region. "Unfortunately, two years to an election, this kind of hooliganism is being engineered in Mt Kenya. How is it that the DP doesn't have these shenanigans in his backyard? When is the last time he had a fundraiser in Eldoret? Posed Murathe during an interview with K24. Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly. My father-in-law won't let me bury my wife of 16 years or see my two children- Victor Odonda Tuko TV. Source: TUKO.co.ke Thomas Jefferson Byrd, who is known for appearing in several Spike Lee movies, is dead in an apparent shooting in Atlanta, Georgia. According to the Atlanta Department, Byrd, 70, was fatally shot on Saturday. The law enforcement authority said that the police officers responded to a 2259 Belvedere Avenue call about a reported injured person. The officers found Thomas Jefferson Byrd lying unresponsive at the location upon arrival, as per the Variety report. Accordng to IB Times, an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team arrived at the scene and identified Byrd as the one who had been severely injured due to multiple gunshot wounds at his back. The EMS team later pronounced Byrd dead shortly after they arrived. The Atlanta Police Department is currently investigating the actor's death, the media outlet also reported. The law enforcement authority told Variety that all the details they have gathered are still preliminary and could change as Byrd's death investigation continues. Spike Lee paid Tribute to actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd Spike Lee paid tribute to the late actor through a touching post on Instagram. Lee called Thomas Jefferson Byrd's death as a "murder." The filmmaker mentioned the projects that he and Byrd worked on and extended his condolences to Thomas' family. "I'm so sad to announce the tragic murder of our beloved brother Thomas Jefferson Byrd last night in Atlanta, Georgia. Tom is my guy. Here below, you see him as the frightening character Errol Barnes in 'CLOCKERS.' Brother Byrd also did his thing in my joints - 'CHI-RAQ,' 'SWEET BLOOD OF JESUS,' 'RED HOOK SUMMER,' 'BAMBOOZLED,' 'HE GOT GAME,' 'GET ON THE BUS,' 'GIRL 6', and 'CLOCKERS.' May we all wish blessings and condolences to his family. Rest in peace, brother Byrd," Lee wrote on Instagram. The 70-year-old actor had starred in several of Lee's films, including Bamboozled, Clockers, and Chi-Raq. Filmmaker Lee described Thomas Jefferson Byrd's death as a "tragic murder." BBC reported that police are working to identify the circumstances, Mr.Grant said. Viola Davis, who also worked alongside Byrd, also expressed her shock at the news through a Twitter post. Oh no!!! 2020! Whaaattt!!! Loved working with you Byrd. What a fine actor you were. So sorry your life ended this way. Praying for your family. So very sorry.https://t.co/R9YxP4gNW4 Viola Davis (@violadavis) October 4, 2020 Simultaneously, The Wire star Wendell Pierce and Jack Ryan also paid tribute and posted a thread for the late actor on Twitter. Thomas Jefferson Byrd, was an actor in the unofficial repertory company of Spike Lee movies. What Joseph Cotton was to Orson Welles, Byrd was for Spike. The everyman character actor. He was a part of the Black Arts Renaissance of Fort Greene in the 80s. pic.twitter.com/oFPMKIKOro Wendell Pierce (@WendellPierce) October 4, 2020 Byrd also appeared in other Spike Lee movies such as Red Hook Summer, Girl 6, Get on the Bus, Opposite Denzel Washington and Milla Jovovich, and Da Sweet Blood of Jesus and He Got Game. In the 1995 film Clockers, Byrd and Lee first collaborated. Lee, the director, shared two clips featuring Thomas Jefferson Byrd, who played Eric Byrne, a violent enforcer. Byrd also appeared in Jamie Foxx's Ray Charles biopic Ray. In 2003, Byrd's theatre work earned him a Tony nomination for Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, where he starred opposite Whoopi Goldberg. Check these out: Chrissy Teigen, John Legend Share Heartbreak of Losing 3rd Baby After Miscarriage Naya Rivera's Ex Ryan Dorsey, Sister Nickayla Move in Together to Help Raise Her Son Demi Lovato, Max Ehrich Call Off Engagement After 2 Months A major data blunder that meant nearly 16,000 cases of coronavirus initially went unreported has now been unveiled, sending the weekly rate of new Covid-19 cases soaring in dozens of areas of England. Public Health England (PHE) said the technical glitch, which occurred when people who tested positive were not recorded once a master Excel spreadsheet reached its maximum size, resulted in 15,841 cases between September 25 and October 2 being left out of the reported daily coronavirus cases. It said the outstanding cases were transferred to the NHS Test and Trace service immediately after the issue was noted and all cases were passed on to tracers by 1am on Saturday. But the error has led to a delay in efforts by NHS Test and Trace to find the contacts of those who tested positive for the virus, in some instances by around a week. Asked if it was likely that some people will have got coronavirus due to the IT failure, Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey told Sky News on Monday: There may well be. Labour's shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth meanwhile slammed the error as shambolic, adding that people across the country will be understandably alarmed". So, here's what you need to know: Staff hand out self test kits at a coronavirus testing centre in Southwark / PA Why was there such a big leap in cases over the weekend? According to official data, there were 22,961 cases of coronavirus reported on Sunday and 12,872 reported on Saturday. This compares to around 7,000 cases reported in the four preceding days. But it has emerged that the big leap in cases occurred due to a technical issue which was discovered on Friday evening. This glitch meant that 15,841 cases between September 25 and October 2 were left out of the reported daily coronavirus cases. Does this mean there has been a surge in coronavirus cases? Officials said that the data published on October 3 and 4 are artificially high because it includes cases from as far back as September 25. But the reported positive cases are still new infections contributing to the rising tide of cases across the UK. The new figures mean that the number of positive cases between September 25 and October 2 was higher than previously reported. Test and Trace error: Minister unable to give number affected Has the problem been sorted? A note on the Governments coronavirus data dashboard says that the issue has been resolved and PHE has said that further robust measures have been put in place as a result. The issue occurred because some files containing positive test results exceeded the maximum file size that takes these data files and loads then into central systems, officials said. They said that rapid mitigation measures have been put in place to ensure the issue does not occur again, such as the files being split into smaller multiple files. Did it affect when people got their test results? No. PHE said every single person who was tested initially had received their test result as normal, with all those testing positive told to self-isolate. So were contacts of these positive cases reached and told to self-isolate? As soon as the missing cases were reported, officials said that the information was immediately handed to NHS Test and Trace so contact tracing could begin and people in contact with those who had the virus were instructed to self isolate. The number of call attempts to contacts of those affected is meanwhile being increased from 10 to 15 over 96 hours. But the blunder will have led to an inevitable delay in some contacts being reached. Boris Johnson admits he 'doesn't know' how many contacts were missed after technical issue Will this have contributed to the spread of the virus? There is no way of knowing the precise ramifications of the error because of the way coronavirus spreads. Some people are asymptomatic carriers and will be infected without knowing, while others will show symptoms, including a loss or change in sense of smell or taste, a new and persistent cough and a fever; others could be pre-symptomatic. One could presume that all of those who become symptomatic immediately begin to self-isolate at home, but the problem lies with those who are infected but are not aware. This could lead to them continuing their lives as normal in the community and potentially increasing the spread of the virus. Do we know where in the country has been affected by the issue? Information from health officials does not make clear where the newly reported cases come from in the country. But officials have said that the missed data reporting does not impact the basis on which decisions about local action were taken last week. London's weekly coronavirus cases rises to more than 4,800 So how many cases does this mean have been recorded in total? The number of reported positive Covid-19 cases in the UK has now passed half a million, with the cases reported over the weekend tipping the positive cases over the 500,000 mark 502,978 cases according to the Governments coronavirus dashboard. Analysis by the PA news agency shows that Manchester now has the highest reported rate of infection in England, with 2,740 cases recorded in the seven days to October 1 the equivalent of 495.6 cases per 100,000 people, up from 223.2 in the previous week. Liverpool has the second highest rate, up from 287.1 to 456.4, with 2,273 new cases and Knowsley in Merseyside is in third place, up from 300.3 to 452.1, with 682 new cases. The analysis, based on Public Health England data published on Sunday night, also shows sharp rises in Newcastle upon Tyne, Nottingham, Leeds and and Sheffield. Kremlin Press Office / Handout/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images On Aug. 18, the Senate Intelligence Committee released a 1,300-page report characterizing the involvement of Russian intelligence operatives with officials of the 2016 Trump presidential campaign as an aggressive, multifaceted effort to influence, or attempt to influence, the outcome of the 2016 presidential election. The report detailed the longstanding relationship between Paul Manafort, Donald Trumps campaign manager, and a Russian intelligence operative named Konstantin Kilimnik, while also describing the links of other Russian intelligence figures to Trump family members, notably Donald Jr. and Jared Kushner, and to such Trump confidants as Roger Stone and Michael Flynn, briefly the presidents national security adviser. As to be expected, President Trump immediately denounced the report as a hoax (never mind that it was authored by a Republican-controlled committee), while his inner circle adopted their usual stance on such matters, either staying mum or decrying the committees work as a tired retread of last years Mueller report. The real scandal, the president declaimed, was the deep state witch hunt against him that spurred these investigations in the first place. If this latest chapter in the four-year Russiagate drama is unlikely to change many minds, at least one person has examined the Senates findings with both great interest and alarm. His name is Peter Sichel and, at the age of 97, he is the last surviving member of the early CIA that faced off with the Soviets at the start of the Cold War. Final Senate Report on Aggressive Russian Interference: Manafort Was a Grave Counterintelligence Threat An escapee from Nazi Germany in the mid-1930s, Sichel served with the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), the United States wartime intelligence agency, during World War II. In October 1945, just months after wars end, he was dispatched to Berlin to take charge of the local clandestine wing of an embryonic American intelligence outfit called the Strategic Services Unit, a precursor to the CIA. That posting placed Sichel at ground zero of the Cold War already beginning to take shape between the Soviet Union and its wartime Western allies, and gave him a front-row seat in observing precisely how the Soviets were taking over in Eastern Europe. Story continues Most people have this idea that they came in and grabbed all those countries by force, Sichel explained, but that is not true. In almost every case, they worked within the structure of the prewar political parties and just gradually coopted them. Through his contacts in Soviet-controlled eastern Germany, Sichel witnessed how the Soviets first coerced the local left and center-left political parties to join together, and to then accept the overall leadership of the embryonic German communist party. They did this both by threatsif a political figure resisted, he could be threatened with arrest as a Nazi war criminaland enticements. Remember, Germany was in absolute ruins at the time, so it didnt take muchthe offer of a car or an allotment of foodto bring people in line. Their ambition was to take over the political parties, but to pretend it was the will of the people. Sichels early 1946 report on the methods the Soviets were using to coopt the eastern German political parties was the first detailed examination of the phenomenon, one soon emulated in the other Eastern European nations under their military control. Once they comprised a sizeable minority in the government, the communist-led coalitions would then start taking control of key ministries, notably the police and internal security services, until they could take over outright. One of the ultimate beneficiaries of this approach, a Hungarian communist leader named Matyas Rakosi, called it salami tactics, the process of joining the existing political system and then slicing away at it until there was nothing left. In this regard, one revelation in the Senate Intelligence Committee report stood out to Sichel. Contrary to most previous assumptions, Senate investigators found that the Russian intelligence campaign to gain influence with the Republican party began well before Trump emerged as a viable candidate, in keeping with Vladimir Putins scheme to help thwart a Hillary Clinton presidency however he could. This fit with the pattern the old CIA hand had seen in Eastern Europe. One great advantage the Soviets always had over us, Sichel explained, is that they played the long game. We thought in terms of quarters, whereas they thought in terms of years or even decades. They were opportunistic, willing to let matters gradually develop until the right political faction or right leader to support had emerged. This found echo in the years prior to 2016 in the series of ties that Putin, an old KGB man himself, fostered with right-wing political figures and fringe groups across the breadth of Europe. However much those ties may have appeared to run counter to Putins open nostalgia for the good old days of Soviet communist rule, they shared the common ground of ultra-nationalism. This paid great dividends for the Russian ruler, for these same nationalist groups were at the forefront in their respective countries in calling for the dissolution or weakening of NATO and the European Union, two long-term Putin goals. For the same reason, the Russian leadership could only have been thrilled by Trumps steady climb toward the Republican nomination. Far more than with any other Republican running for president, Trumps xenophobic, America First rhetoric dovetailed with Putins own version, while Trumps promise of a diminished American role on the global stage was the stuff of Russian fantasy. Little wonder that Putins minions would do anything in their power to help propel the hotel magnate and reality show host into the White House. But of course, one cant rely on jingoistic fraternity alone to achieve ones goals, and limning the pages of the Senate Intelligence Committee report is the specter of another old KGB standby: kompromat, or blackmail. During his Cold War days in Berlin, Peter Sichel had to remain constantly vigilant against kompromat schemes targeting himself and his CIA colleagues, as well as western German political figures. The KGB were absolute masters at it, he recalled, and they would use whatever they could get their hands on. A favorite was honey traps [or sexual entrapments], but bribes, favors, whatever they could find. And once they had their hooks into you, they owned you. Scattered throughout the Senate report is a litany of instances in which Trumps associates left themselves open to Russian blackmail: Manaforts many dealings with Kilimnik; the June 2016 Trump Tower meeting at which Donald Jr., Jared Kushner, and Michael Flynn met with Russian intelligence operatives who promised dirt on Hillary Clinton; the backchannel communications between Flynn, by then Trumps national security adviser-designate, and the Russian ambassador. The key thing is that all of them then lied about it to investigators, Sichel explained, and thats where the potential blackmail comes in. Imagine if the FBI hadnt caught Flynn out, and he had remained in his post. The Russians knew he liedIm sure they taped all their communications with himso they would have had him over a barrel forever. In this way, the old spymaster contended, the various investigations into Russiagate have actually been of great service to Trump. I know he doesnt see it this way, Sichel said, but by having all this stuff brought out in public, it removes the blackmail threat. The smartest thing Trump could have done when all this started to break was to just come out and say, Yes, it appears there was Russian involvement with my campaign, but thats over with now, Im the president, so lets move on. But he didnt do that, obviously. Perhaps there were reasons why he couldnt. Even long-retired intelligence officers tend to be circumspect by natureSichel left the CIA in 1960and while he left that last comment to dangle, his allusion seemed fairly clear. After all, what to make of an American president whose foreign policy initiatives have included weakening NATO and urging on the fracturing of the European Union. Who has repeatedly tried to reinstate Russia into the G-8 council of industrialized of nations, over the strenuous objections of Americas European allies, and who defends Putins propensity for killing his political opponents by stating, I think our country does plenty of killing also. And its not as if Trumps obeisance to his Russian friend is a thing of the past. On Aug. 20, two days after the release of the Senate Intelligence Committee report, Putins principal surviving political opponent, Alexei Navalny, was left near death by a poison almost certainly administered by Russian intelligence agents. Even as European leaders have lodged protests against the Kremlin and demanded an investigation, President Trump has yet to say a word on the matter. Hardly an original thought, but did Sichel think the president himself could be hostage to Russian kompromat? Well, I couldnt possibly say, he replied, because I think were still in the early stages of unlocking all that has gone on. What I can say is that the past four years have been very, very good for Vladimir Putin. And if Trump is reelected, the next four will be even better. Scott Anderson is the author of The Quiet Americans: Four CIA Spies at the Dawn of the Cold WarA Tragedy in Three Acts. He is also the author of two novels and four other works of nonfiction, including Lawrence in Arabia, an international bestseller that was a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award and a New York Times Notable Book. A veteran war correspondent, he is a contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now! Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more. The threat posed by dissident republican groups 'has not decreased' and Brexit could be used as a recruiting tool for new members, an influential committee of MPs has warned. A new report published by Parliament's Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) said the number of attacks last year showed terror groups are 'resilient, and retain both the intent and capability to cause serious damage'. The report into Northern Ireland-related terrorism also expressed concerns about the 'significant numbers of young people' who are being recruited and at the amount of time it can take for legal proceedings against suspected terrorists to conclude. On Brexit, the committee said that the UK's departure from the European Union had led to 'uncertainty' which could be capitalised on. It warned that any post-Brexit border infrastructure 'would inevitably be used as a recruiting tool'. Parliament's influential Intelligence and Security Committee today warned the threat posed by dissident republican groups 'has not decreased' The report said there were four attacks by dissident republican (DR) groups in 2019 after the number of Northern Ireland-related terror attacks had decreased in preceding years. The committee said the 'number of attacks in 2019 demonstrates that the main DR groups are resilient, and retain both the intent and capability to cause serious damage'. It added the attacks show that the threat posed by such groups 'has not decreased'. The committee said that based on the evidence provided by the security services 'MI5 does not view total suppression as realistic'. The security services told the committee they 'do not proceed with an assumption that we can continue to drive [Northern Ireland-related terrorism attacks] down to zero'. 'That looks to us to be an undeliverable goal, albeit one we should always strive towards,' they said. The MPs warned removing any security focus away from activity in Northern Ireland would be 'premature in light of the uncertainty posed by the UKs exit from the European Union'. They warned that 'border infrastructure would be symbolic for DR groups, and would inevitably be used as a recruiting tool'. The committee said Northern Ireland-related terrorism 'requires sustained pressure and resources must be maintained'. It concluded: 'This is more important now than ever. Any border infrastructure resulting from Brexit will be both a target and a recruiting badge for Dissident Republican groups, who have until now used the impasse in Stormont to justify their cause and bolster their numbers. 'This Committee would not support the use of any hard border infrastructure, and recommends that this be taken into account in any final settlement in relation to the border with the Republic of Ireland.' A chemical in cannabis could help prevent a respiratory complication that a "significant proportion" of coronavirus patients experience, a study has shown. Researchers at the University of South Carolina used mice to see if the Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) chemical in cannabis could block the immune system response that leads to Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). The respiratory illness causes fluid to build up in the lungs, which prevents the organs from being able to provide the body with enough oxygen. It is a life-threatening condition that has been found to occur when Covid-19 patients' immune systems try to fight the virus. Scientists from the University of South Carolina introduced a toxin to mice to trigger ARDS. They then used THC to see if the animals would survive the illness. "It is of interest to note that a significant proportion of Coronavirus disease 2019 patients come down with sepsis and ARDS accompanied by cytokine storm," wrote the researchers of the study, which was published in the British Journal of Pharmacology and the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. The World on Coronavirus lockdown 1 /60 The World on Coronavirus lockdown Getty Images A UK government public health campaign is displayed in Piccadilly Circus Reuters Chinese paramilitary police and security officers wear face masks to protect against the spread of the new coronavirus as they stand guard outside an entrance to the Forbidden City in Beijing AP A usually busy 42nd Street is seen nearly empty in New York AFP via Getty Images Bondi Beach, Australia Getty Images Military vehicles cross Westminster Bridge after members of the 101 Logistic Brigade delivered a consignment of medical masks to St Thomas' hospital Getty Images View of the illuminated statue of Christ the Redeemer that reads "Thank you" as Archbishop of the city of Rio de Janeiro Dom Orani Tempesta performs a mass in honor of Act of Consecration of Brazil and tribute to medical workers amidst the Coronavirus (COVID - 19) pandemic Getty Images Rome AFP via Getty Images An Indian man paddles his bicycle in front of a mural depicting the globe covered in a mask, as India remains under an unprecedented lockdown over the highly contagious coronavirus Getty Images Aerial view of the empty 9 de Julio avenue in Buenos Aires in Argentina AFP via Getty Images A view of an empty Grand Canal Reuters Las Ramblas, Barcelona, Spain Getty Images Aerial view of the empty Central cemetery in Bogota, Columbia AFP via Getty Images The facade of the Palacio de Lopez (seat of the government palace) AFP via Getty Images Miami, Florida AFP via Getty Images Aerial view of the empty Simon Bolivar park in Bogota AFP via Getty Images An LAPD patrol car drives through Venice Beach Boardwalk AP Venice Beach, California Getty Images Los Angeles, California Getty Images Surfers Paradise is seen empty in Australia Getty Images Many shops stand shuttered on the Venice Beach boardwalk Getty Images Empty escalators are seen at a deserted train station during morning rush hour after New South Wales began shutting down non-essential businesses Reuters A nearly empty Times Square in New York AFP via Getty Images Caracas AFP via Getty Images Metropolitan Cathedral of San Salvador AFP via Getty Images A general view of an unusually quiet Midland Park in Wellington, New Zealand Getty Images A general view of an unusually quiet Civic Square at lunchtimein Wellington, New Zealand Getty Images A policeman rides his motorcycle wearing a face mask in front of a closed shopping mall in Buenos Aires, Argentina AFP via Getty Images Florida Keys AP The historic Channel 2 Bridge closed to fishermen, bikers and pedestrians in Florida Keys AP The Beach on Scenic Gulf Drive near Seascape Resort in south Walton County, Florida sits empty of tourists AP Surfers Paradise is seen empty in Australia Getty Images A deserted Rajpath leading to India Gate in New Delhi AFP via Getty Images A general view is seen of a closed Luna Park in Sydney, Australia Getty Images A general view is seen of a closed Luna Park in Sydney, Australia Getty Images Empty roads are pictured following the lockdown by the government amid concerns about the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Kathmandu, Nepal Reuters An empty New York Subway car i AFP via Getty Images The empty pedestrian zone is seen in the city of Cologne, western Germany, AFP via Getty Images Place de la Comedie in the city of Montpellier , southern France AFP via Getty Images An empty street in Kuwait city AFP via Getty Images A building is covered by the Portuguese message: "Coronavirus: take precaution" over empty streets in downtown Sao Paulo, Brazil, AP A general view shows an empty street after a curfew was imposed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Reuters Parliament of Canada is pictured with empty street during morning rush hour AFP via Getty Images A near empty beach on Southend seafront in England PA Near empty Keswick town centre in Cumbria, England PA "Because currently there is no effective treatment against ARDS, a significant percentage of such Covid-19 patients die from severe damage to the lungs and other organs, caused by cytokine storm." After carrying out three studies, the scientists discovered that all of the mice who received the toxin but no THC treatment died, while the animals who were treated with THC had a "100 per cent survival" rate. They stressed that while the research showed promising results, the study is not conclusive and THC should not be used as self-medication by coronavirus patients. Vitamin D 'cuts chance of coronavirus death,' study finds Prakash Nagarkatti, co-author of the study, told The State: "The underlying mechanism is your immune system goes haywire and starts destroying your lungs and all your other organs. "It's like a car where you're putting on a lot of accelerator, but the brakes aren't working. Basically what's going to happen is your car is going to crash because you can't stop it. And that's basically what's happening with ARDS." He added that there is currently no available FDA-approved drug that treats ARDS. "I just want to make sure our research is not interpreted as marijuana is good for Covid-19," said Mr Nagarkatti. "If you start using THC early on it might worsen the effect because it suppresses the immune system." An Azeri protester waves Azerbaijani and Turkish national flags in a demonstration in Istanbul on Sunday The head of NATO said Monday he expected Turkey -- a key ally of Azerbaijan -- to use its "considerable" influence to calm the conflict in the ethnic Armenian separatist region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg's comments in Ankara came as fighting between Azerbaijani and Armenian separatist forces entered its second week with at least 260 people killed. "We are deeply concerned by the escalation of hostilities. All sides should immediately cease fighting and find a way forward towards a peaceful resolution," Stoltenberg said after talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu. "And I expect Turkey to use its considerable influence to calm tensions." Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged fellow Muslim Azerbaijan to press on with its campaign until it takes back lands it lost in a war in the early 1990s that killed 30,000 as Nagorno-Karabakh broke away. He said moments before starting his own talks with the NATO commander that Azerbaijan was "responding to an attack and saving Karabakh from its occupation". "We, Turkey, say that we are always on the Azerbaijan side," Erdogan said in a televised address. "As long as the Karabakh issue is not resolved, it will not be possible to end the unrest and conflict in the region." Nagorno-Karabakh is viewed as part of Azerbaijan by the United Nations and was never recognised as an independent state by Armenia. But Yerevan fully supports the region and has historically hostile relations with Azerbaijan. - Mediterranean dispute - Stoltenberg's visit to Turkey came during a new spell of tensions with its strategically vital member state. Turkey contributes one of the largest forces to the Western military alliance and plays a crucial role in Libya and the Middle East. But Turkey's hunt for natural gas deposits in disputed eastern Mediterranean waters sparked a regional crisis in August that forced fellow NATO member Greece to stage war games with its top European allies in a show of force. Story continues Those tensions began to ease when the two agreed last month to resume direct negotiations for the first time since 2016. No date for the Istanbul talks has been announced. Turkey also pulled back a drilling ship from contested waters around Cyprus after the European Union on Friday threatened to sanction Ankara. The European Union said the Yavuz vessel's return to a Turkish port on Monday "constitutes another welcome step towards de-escalation in the eastern Mediterranean". The Turkish energy ministry said the ship was undergoing maintenance and refuelling in preparation for "drilling activities in a new location". Stoltenberg meanwhile welcomed an agreement by Athens and Ankara last week to set up a military hotline to head off accidental clashes. "The de-confliction mechanism can help create the space for diplomatic efforts," the NATO chief said. Stoltenberg next travels to Athens on Tuesday for talks with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. bg-fo/zak/mbx The 2020 vintage was already difficult in Napa Valley. It was born in a drought, matured through terrible heat spikes and had endured smoky conditions from the haze of numerous Northern California fires. Then, on the last weekend of September in the middle of harvest savage wildfires seemed to attack the northern end of the valley from all directions. The Glass Fire started in the early morning of Sept. 27 in Deer Park, east of St. Helena, near the Silverado Trail, the north-south artery of the eastern valley. It swept east, destroying the winery and barrel warehouse at Burgess Cellars and leveling the turreted stone building at Chateau Boswell. It engulfed the three-Michelin-star restaurant at the Meadowood luxury resort and licked the edges of vineyards at Viader and Failla. It had begun climbing the hills on the east side of the valley when the wind shifted, blowing the fire back west. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 15:57 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c492ed07 1 City labor-union,strike,protest,RUU-cipta-kerja,RUU-cilaka,omnibus-bill-on-job-creation,Jakarta-police,COVID-19,coronavirus,omnibus,omnibus-bill Free Labor unions and civil rights groups plan to take to the streets once again to protest against the controversial job creation omnibus bill as the House of Representatives and the government have decided to pass it into law in Mondays plenary session. Labor alliances and NGOs across the country pledged on Sunday to voice their opposition to the bill one last time with large-scale protests and strikes from Tuesday to Thursday. However, some labor unions have decided to start the demonstrations earlier after the House decided to fast-track the final stage of the bills deliberation by moving the vote to a previously unscheduled plenary session on Monday instead of the initially planned Thursday. A House document obtained by The Jakarta Post states that the bill was to be endorsed in a plenary session on Monday at 2 p.m., concurrently with the House speakers closing speech for the first session of the 2020-2021 term. The plenary session is still ongoing as of the time of writing. Suparno, the chairman of the Bekasi chapter of the Indonesian Metal Workers Federation (FSPMI) in West Java, said around 5,000 workers from the region would join the demonstration in front of the House complex in Senayan, Cental Jakarta, on Monday. Jakarta Police traffic unit head Sr. Comr. Sambodo Purnomo Yogo said the police had diverted traffic in front of the House complex, where most of the demonstrations were to take place on Monday. All roads to the House complex have been closed in anticipation of the protest, according to him. Avoid roads around the [House complex] in anticipation of a demonstration, Sambodo said as quoted by kompas.com. This traffic diversion is situational [in accordance with crowd movement]. The Jakarta Police previously refused to grant protesters permission to gather in front of the House complex, saying that large crowds could increase the risk of COVID-19 transmission. However, police personnel remained on standby to anticipate protesters disregarding the warning. We are urging [protesters] to understand, said Jakarta Police spokesperson Yusri Yunus. Dont let there be a new [COVID-19 infection] cluster. (rfa) The public has raised over 12,000 for a Somerset farming family whose farm house and milk store were badly damaged in a major blaze. Emergency services were called to a fire at Brent House Farm in Edingworth, Weston-Super-Mare on Saturday (3 October). Fire engines from Burnham On Sea, Bridgwater, Weston-Super-Mare and Cheddar were mobilised to the incident. Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service said the property had been '100% damaged by smoke and 50% damaged by fire'. A GoFundMe page was launched on Sunday (4 October) looking to help the family with financial costs following the blaze. (Photo: Burnham Fire Station) As of Monday morning, over three hundred donors have raised more than 12,000. Organiser Lenka Mayo said: Following the fire at their farm house, lets show our support as these kind-hearted people looked after us during the lockdown and made sure we always had fresh milk and local produce. "It would be nice to see Liz, Steve, Sarah and Sam back on their feet as soon as they can. In a video message posted on social media, the farm said the amount of donations they had received was 'overwhelming'. The family business reassured the public that their milk vending machine was still open despite the incident. How can I prevent fires on the farm? Farmers are encouraged by rural insurer NFU Mutual to check their fire prevention methods and evacuation procedures: Ensure there are sufficient fire extinguishers for the size of buildings and that materials stored are inspected and regularly maintained Ensure staff and adult family members know the location of fire extinguishers and how to use them Reduce the risk of arson by fencing-off straw stacks and farm buildings Store hay and straw at least 10m from other buildings Put in place an evacuation plan for staff and livestock Store petrol, diesel and other fuels in secure areas Schedule regular electrical safety checks Invite your local fire and rescue service to visit to check water supplies and access routes Maharashtras ruling Shiv Sena on Monday cited a report of a team of forensic experts from New Delhis All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) ruling out murder in actor Sushant Singh Rajputs death and slammed those who targeted the Mumbai Police over its investigations in the case. It also sought an apology for those who maligned Maharashtra over the death. The Sena asked the Maharashtra government to file a defamation suit against those who deliberately defamed the state government as part of a conspiracy against the ruling alliance. In its conclusive medico-legal opinion to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the team dismissed the claims of poisoning and strangling made in the case of Rajputs death. Also Read: Sushant Singh Rajput death investigation: Congress, BJP trade barbs The truth ultimately comes out and this is what exactly happened when Dr Sudhir Gupta, who heads the Forensic Department [of AIIMS], declared it as a suicide. Dr Gupta does not belong to the Shiv Senas medical wing neither is he connected to Mumbai. In fact, AIIMS enjoys such a good reputation that even [Union] home minister Amit Shah regularly visits it, said Senas mouthpiece, Saamna, in an editorial. It said this confirmed the Mumbai Police were a doing a professional job and was subject to unjust ridicule. The editorial said Rajputs family was used by some vested interests for their narrow political agenda. It added for this former Bihar police chief Gupteshwar Pandey, who has since quit to join the ruling Janata Dal (United), or JD (U), was seen running his agenda. The Bihar elections did not have any issue and hence [chief minister] Nitish Kumar and other politicians latched on this issue. Gupteshwar Pandey also played along and finally joined Nitish Kumars party. He has in fact defamed the uniform. It is surprising now he has not uttered a single work condemning the Hathras rape incident, said the editorial. The Sena said the experts opinion proves the late actor used to consume drugs and that was the reason why his partner, Rhea Chakraborty, is now in prison. Had the law allowed, then even the deceased Sushant Singh would have been tried for the consumption of drugs. The Mumbai Police were criticised for the mishandling the investigations. The Bihar Police also took up the case before the Supreme Court handed it over the case to the CBI. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Hours after a man threw ink on him in UPs Hathras on Monday, AAP leader Sanjay Singh posted a purported photo of the offender with the states ADG Police (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar on social media. There is no doubt now who was behind the attack, Singh said on Twitter as he posted a picture purportedly showing his alleged attacker Deepak Sharma with ADG Kumar. A man later identified as Sharma threw ink on Singh, a Rajya Sabha MP from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Hathras on Monday when he was leading a party delegation in the village of the Dalit woman who recently died after being allegedly gangraped. Is there anything left to understand now? This is the accused who attacked me with ADG Law and Order Prashant Kumar. Yogi ji, do not hide your black tactics behind black ink. Shoot from the front," Singh tweeted in Hindi along with the picture. The Hathras police responded to the tweet, saying necessary legal action has been taken. Today, on 05.10.20, Sanjay Singh, MP from Aam Aadmi Party, came to meet the victims family in , after which during the press talk, a young man threw ink on him who was immediately taken by the police in custody. Necessary legal action is being taken," Hathras police tweeted while identifying the victims village. Singh is among the several political leaders who have visited the village in Hathras district to meet the kin of the 19-year-old Dalit woman who died on September 29 after she was allegedly raped by four upper caste men. Deepak Sharma, accused of throwing the ink on Singh, describes himself as founder of the Hindu outfit Rashtra Swabhiman Dal and has a history of provoking breach of peace between groups. Two years ago he was booked by the Gautam Buddh Nagar police for allegedly fanning communal tension between Indian and Afghan students. In October 2018, ahead of Vice President M Venkaiah Naidus visit to a private university in Greater Noida, Sharma had entered the varsity with his supporters where Indian and Afghan students had scuffled. Around 350 students from both sides were booked in the case lodged at the local Knowledge Park police station, with the then District Magistrate B N Singh ordering another FIR against the outsiders including Sharma who had escalated the minor scuffle into a communal issue". Singh had also said he would have Sharma detained under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) for disrupting public order" with his inflammatory video and remarks", prompting the right-wing activist to go into hiding for a long time. When last checked by PTI, the unverified Twitter handle of Sharma, who has since frequently appeared in videos on social media sharing inflammatory content, had over 1.31 lakh followers including some politicians and senior UP government officials. Two 15-year-old boys will appear in court today after a police officer was stabbed as she attempted to detain them while they allegedly tried to rob a grocery store. Two officers were in Westminster when they were said to have seen the youngsters armed with knives attempting to rob the shop on Sunday afternoon. The shopkeeper at Pimlico Grocery had managed to push the suspects out of the store and the officers then tried to detain them shortly after 3.30pm. As they challenged the boys, police said one of the officers suffered a stab wound to the stomach but continued to chase the suspects along Vauxhall Bridge Road. The suspects were detained a short time later with the assistance of firearms officers, and are due to appear at Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court today. Police investigate at Pimlico Grocery in Westminster yesterday following the stabbing Police said the officer was taken to hospital, adding that her injuries were not believed to be life-threatening and she had since been discharged. One of the 15-year-old suspects, from Barking, was charged with grievous bodily harm against a police officer and assault by beating of an emergency worker. He was also charged with attempted robbery, threatening a person with a blade or sharply pointed article in a public place, assault by beating and criminal damage. The second boy, from Hampshire, was charged with assault by beating of an emergency worker, attempted robbery and assault by beating. A forensic officer dusts a door frame at Pimlico Grocery yesterday inside the police cordon In addition, he was charged with criminal damage and threatening a person with a blade or sharply pointed article in a public place. Chief Inspector Simon Brooker said: 'This shows precisely the kind of danger officers face every single day as they work to keep the public safe. 'For this officer to be stabbed on duty is unacceptable but, fortunately, she does not appear to be seriously injured. 'I applaud her bravery in responding to this call. This courage is typical of Met officers as they go about their duties.' The injured police officer has been commended for her bravery during yesterday's incident Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: 'My thoughts and prayers are with this brave police officer who is receiving treatment in hospital after she was stabbed while on duty, intervening in a robbery, this afternoon. 'Every day our courageous police officers put themselves in harm's way to keep Londoners safe. 'I am sure all Londoners will join me in wishing her a speedy recovery. 'Attacks on our police are utterly unacceptable and perpetrators will feel the full force of the law.' AMHERST A proposal by two Boston-based business advocacy groups to alter how the states Chapter 70 local aid to school districts is disbursed would take a meat cleaver to the local school district, according to the towns budget chief Sean Mangano. Nearly $8 million of state education aid would be lopped off the revenue sheets for Amherst school system and Amherst-Pelham regional district, he said. The two business groups co-wrote a 23-page report saying more Chapter 70 school aid should go to the least wealthy cities and towns, and less to more affluent communities. Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Massachusetts Business Alliance for Education jointly wrote the research paper Ryan Flynn from the Alliance and James Sutherland of the Chamber. The authors acknowledged assistance from a small group of experts. Those include two men recently in senior leadership positions at the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Both are Chapter 70 whizzes, and oversaw the financial dimension of it former Deputy Commissioner Jeff Wulfson and former Administrator of School Finance, Roger Hatch, who departed the DESE in 2016 after 36 years. Wulfson, who was also the acting DESE commissioner for a period of time, retired in April after 25 years with the DESE that included time as the agencys chief financial officer. Previously, he was Director of Administration, at the Department of Revenues Division of Local Services for 8 years, and for 5 years Chief management analyst at Office of Massachusetts Inspector General back in the 1980s. In a memorandum to Amherst Town Manager Paul Bockelman last week, Mangano wrote: Amherst schools (secondary and elementary) would lose appx. $7.85 million of Chapter 70 funding or 14% of their combined budgets if the funding formula was changed as advocated by the business groups. He said their proposed changes would have an unimaginably negative impact on the quality of education in Amherst and many other communities. The loss of funding would result in dramatic reductions to programming at the schools and across Town departments. The loss would have a ripple effect throughout the community. The Chapter 70 funding mechanism to disburse education aid was designed as a wealth-based formula to ensure the money to school districts takes into account their ability to fund kindergarten through grade 12 schools across the state. The Boston Chamber and Business Alliance report more of the approximately $5.5 billion Chapter 70 aid should go to poorer districts and less to wealthier ones. Massachusetts would be wise to consider how needs-blind state aid currently sent to its wealthiest communities could be better directed toward low-in-come students and communities to help close the decades-long achievement and opportunity gaps, the report says. The report questions needs-blind factors in the states education budget that the report says offer the wealthiest school districts hundreds of millions in Chapter 70 funding even though the districts can afford to operate with less, or even no aid. The business groups submitted their research to the DESE and to legislators. Bockelman has informed Amherst Town Council that he plans to do the same -- in opposition to the Boston business groups' proposals. Related: Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 22:07:14|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BAGHDAD, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Iraqi Health Ministry reported on Monday 3,808 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the nationwide infections to 382,949. The ministry reported 65 more deaths, raising the death toll from the infectious virus to 9,464 in the country. It also said that 4,676 more patients recovered in the day, bringing the total number of recoveries to 312,158. A total of 2,371,348 tests have been carried out across the country since the outbreak of the disease in February, with 21,915 done during the day, according to the statement. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization representative in Iraq Adham Ismail said in a press release that "Iraq is in the stage of communal spread of the virus." "The Iraqi health authorities are doing their best to control the spread of the disease," Ismail said. Earlier, the health ministry called in a statement on pilgrims heading to the holy Shiite city of Karbala to adhere to the health-protective measures. Iraq has taken a series of measures to contain the pandemic since February when the first coronavirus case appeared in the country. China has been helping Iraq fight the COVID-19 pandemic. From March 7 to April 26, a Chinese team of seven medical experts spent 50 days in Iraq to help contain the disease, during which they helped build a PCR lab and install an advanced CT scanner in Baghdad. Since March 7, China has also sent three batches of medical aid to Iraq. Enditem HOUSTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Through a series of recent developments and acquisitions, Welcome Group, LLC, now has more than 5 million square feet of industrial space within the company's commercial real estate portfolio in Texas. The Houston, Texas-based real estate owner and developer's extensive growth aligns with the company's expansion goals. Welcome Group's robust portfolio consists of single-tenant commercial, distribution, lab, and manufacturing properties. The company is actively seeking more development, purchase and sale-leaseback opportunities to achieve the next goal of owning over 6 million square feet of industrial real estate space by the end of 2021. While the Welcome Group is now looking to expand its holdings throughout the southeastern United States, two notable acquisitions that have taken place in 2020 have occurred within the real estate developer's home state of Texas. The acquisitions include Swan Products facility in Waco. Welcome Group acquired a sale-leaseback and expansion on the building, increasing the facility by an additional 293,995 square feet. The property now contains 7,520 SF of office space, 100,154 SF of manufacturing space, and 289,518 SF of warehouse space totaling 397,192 SF for the facility. In Chambers County, a recent purchase of a 23-acre industrial land site located in Cedar Port, the fifth largest industrial park in the US has energized Welcome Group's development team. It will contribute to further expansion and future development. Following these additions, Welcome Wilson, Jr., President and CEO of Welcome Group, stated, "We're motivated by our latest series of acquisitions, and we look forward to surpassing our goal of owning 6 million square feet of industrial space by the end of next year." About Welcome Group: The company offers build-to-suit and design-build services for interested firms. Welcome Group is actively seeking direct purchase and sale-leaseback opportunities throughout Texas and now the southeastern United States. Welcome Group, LLC, a Houston-based full-service single-tenant industrial owner and development firm, currently owns over 115 industrial buildings in Texas comprising of approximately five million square feet, and has developed more than 250 single-tenant properties. Their clients include Fortune 500 Companies, locally owned, and a number of international companies. For more information, visit welcomegroup.com. SOURCE Welcome Group Related Links http://welcomegroup.com ABB has acquired Codian Robotics B.V., a leading provider of delta robots, which are used primarily for high-precision pick and place applications. Codian Robotics offering includes a hygienic design line, ideal for hygiene-sensitive industries including food and beverage and pharmaceuticals. With the transaction, ABB is accelerating its engagement in the growing field of delta robots. Codian Robotics is located in Ede, Netherlands and employs 20 people globally. The company will continue to serve its customers directly. The acquisition was signed and closed on October 1, 2020 and both parties agreed not to disclose any details regarding the purchase price. Our acquisition underscores our focus on breakthrough technology, helping our customers to fully realize the potential of automation and increase their flexibility in a rapidly changing business landscape, said Sami Atiya, President of ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation. Codian Robotics technologies and industry expertise are the perfect addition to our suite of food and beverage, pharmaceutical, service robotics and logistics solutions, while also supporting ABBs machine-centric robotics offering. Over the years, we have developed an extensive product portfolio. ABBs impressive global presence and industry expertise will help us make our portfolio available globally. I am looking forward to working together to write the next chapter of our success story, said Freek Hartman, Founder of Codian Robotics. While today the majority of robots in the food and beverage industry are not designed for touching food, Codian Robotics portfolio includes a hygienic design that allows safe, open food processing. There is a strong need for pick and place robots that ensure high hygienic standards, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our food and beverage, pharmaceutical and logistics customers are particularly interested in the potential of automation, enabling supply chains to continue to function, while protecting employee welfare, added Atiya. In the future, ABB will be able to provide its customers with a broader range of delta robots and integrated solutions from a single source, contributing to ABBs machine-centric robotics strategy which integrates machine automation and robot control into a single platform. Hans Wimmer, President of ABBs Machine Automation division and Managing Director of B&R, said: With Codian Robotics we are acquiring one of the worlds most successful suppliers of delta robots with an extraordinary track record in the machine builders sector. In the future, we will be able to offer our customers fully integrated solutions globally and for all industries. ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation is a pioneer in robotics, machine automation and digital services providing innovative solutions for a diverse range of industries, from automotive over electronics to logistics. As one of the worlds leading robotics suppliers, we have shipped over 400,000 robot solutions. We help our customers of all sizes to increase productivity, flexibility and simplicity and to improve output quality. We support their transition towards the connected and collaborative factory of the future. ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation employs more than 10,000 people at over 100 locations in more than 53 countries. www.abb.com/robotics ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) is a leading global technology company that energizes the transformation of society and industry to achieve a more productive, sustainable future. By connecting software to its electrification, robotics, automation and motion portfolio, ABB pushes the boundaries of technology to drive performance to new levels. With a history of excellence stretching back more than 130 years, ABBs success is driven by about 110,000 talented employees in over 100 countries. www.abb.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201002005143/en/ Donald Trump and his presidency represent the biggest threat to press freedom he has seen in his lifetime, says veteran broadcaster Dan Rather. Rather, 88, whose in-the-field reporting has ranged from the assassination of John F Kennedy and the civil rights struggle, to the Vietnam War and the presidency of Richard Nixon, said the way Mr Trump demonised the media, and the impact this had on society, was like nothing he had seen. Yet, he also criticised some in the press for failing to confront the president and call out his lies, and said the biggest challenge for the media may yet lie ahead, on next months election day, and in the days immediately afterwards. There's no comparison to be made. We, as a country, as a people or society, have never been through anything like this, he told The Independent, by telephone. And the press has not been through anything like this. He added: The closest thing would be the Nixon years. However, there are great differences between now and the Nixon time. This is unprecedented. Rather, who served as the anchor of CBS Evening News for almost 25 years and as such was one of the trio of dominant broadcasters who delivered the news to millions of viewers who tuned into the major networks at the height of their power and influence, has emerged as an acerbic critic of the president, both in person and on social media. While his 1.4 million followers do not come close in number to those of the president, they point to a widespread respect and admiration among at least a swathe of US society. Dan Rather: Donald Trump is 'mean as a wolverine' Rather is never more passionate than when talking about the state of the media, the trade to which he dedicated much of his life, starting his a career as a reporter for the Associated Press in Texas, before switching to television. He spent 10 years as a White House correspondent. For all of Mr Trumps claims he is mistreated by the media or fake news, Rather said the opposite had been true. He said because of much of the medias attempts to try and cover the Trump presidency in the way it covered those that went before it, it was forced to put itself in contortions. I want to always try to be careful not to overstate things, but I've come to believe this has been one of our problems for those of us in the press. That were so worried about possibly overstating things, that we have understated for too long, he said. The Independent employs reporters around the world to bring you truly independent journalism. To support us, please consider a contribution So when I say that the press spent too long, and I include myself in this criticism, too long engaging in false equivalency, and so called both-sideism Donald Trump is taking advantage of that. He added: I think that, particularly in the last year-and-a-half, I think the press has done a better job of saying to itself Look, we have to report on him and who he is, and what he's doing, not what we hoped that hed do, and hoped that he would be. Rather, who in 2017 authored with Elliot Kirschner, What Unites Us: Reflections on Patriotism, said that because the US president represents both the head of state and the head of government, American journalists sometimes struggled to walk the careful line between respect for the office, and holding that person to account. He claimed Mr Trump was different because he himself had no respect for the office. He said it was essential the media point out when the president told lies, even if that risked losing readers and viewers who are his supporters. "By treating President Trump in a normal way, and stretching this respect to the office, overlapping with respect to the person, that helps him with his lies, and helps him with his cheating, with all these difficult words weve already used, he said. I think journalists who are going to think about it are going to say to themselves, I'm going to do the work, Im going to do it as well as I can, Im going to get as close to the truth as I can. And the chips will have to fall where they may. Mr Trump has been wildly criticised for his treatment of the media, denouncing it as being fake, and acting insultingly or aggressively toward many of those who question him. He has been seen to get particularly angered by questions leveled at him by a group of women White House reporters. The Independent has launched a campaign to defend press freedoms in the United States Journalism Is Not A Crime in the run up to the election and afterwards. It did so after dozens of journalists including one of its own correspondents were arrested by police while covering protests for racial justice that took place this summer that were triggered by the killing by police in Minneapolis of George Floyd, an unarmed African American. The death of the 46-year-old, who was videoed saying he could not breathe as a white officer knelt on his neck for almost nine minutes, was just the latest in a succession of fatal encounters between the police and unarmed people of colour. Rathers career at CBS came to an end in 2005, when he was ousted amid controversy over a 60 Minutes story about George W Bushs national service record. The story, which many believe to be true, made use of documents it was alleged were not authentic. Four senior news staff were fired after a CBS panel concluded the piece was neither fair nor accurate and did not meet the organisation's internal standards. Rather, who still presents broadcasts on AXS TV and on the YouTube channel The Young Turks, has always stood by the underlying claims in the story, that Bush used family connections to gain entry to the Texas Air National Guard to avoid serving in the Vietnam War. It also alleged the former president was unaccounted for for a year of his assigned duty to that unit. A 2015 movie of the controversy, Truth, starred Robert Redford as Rather and Cate Blanchett as ousted CBS prouder Mary Mapes, whose memoir inspired much of the action In 2015, Rather told the Los Angeles Times: The pressure got on from powerful people, including the White House, and the corporation disowned the story. Speaking from Austin, Texas, Rather said that while Joe Biden was doing as well as he could and appeared to be leading the race for the White House, there was a way for reelection for Mr Trump. I learned a long time ago that he who lives by the crystal ball, tends to eat a lot of broken glass. And I have eaten more than my share, so I am not gong to make a projection, he said. Biden leads at the moment, as best I can make out. But neither he nor any other Democrat or anybody else can kid themselves, that Donald Trump has a very solid, loyal base. And there is a path by which he can win. The Independent employs reporters around the world to bring you truly independent journalism. To support us, please consider a contribution Reuters A Walter Reed doctor accused President Donald Trump of putting the lives of his Secret Service agents at risk for the "political theater" of a trip outside the hospital. Dr. James P. Phillips described the event as "insanity" that endangered the lives of Secret Service agents. Trump was filmed waving at supporters from a car he was sharing with security personnel for a trip outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The president described the trip as a "little surprise visit to some of the patriots we have out on the street." Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories. President Donald Trump has been accused by a doctor at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center of putting the lives of Secret Service agents at risk for "political theater" after the president surprised supporters with a public drive-by on Sunday. Dr. James P. Phillips, an assistant professor of emergency medicine at George Washington University who is also an attending physician at Walter Reed, where Trump has been hospitalized, said "the irresponsibility is astounding" in tweets lambasting the president for sharing a car with Secret Service agents while still infected with the coronavirus. Trump was filmed temporarily leaving Walter Reed in the back of a black car on Sunday evening after being admitted there Friday for treatment for the coronavirus. Suited and wearing a mask, the president waved at cheering supporters on the street in what he described in a video statement posted on Twitter as a "little surprise visit to some of the patriots we have out on the street." Phillips said "this is insanity" and said that under the official US coronavirus guidance the security personnel traveling in the car with Trump would need to quarantine for two weeks because of their exposure to the virus. He tweeted: "Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary Presidential 'drive-by' just now has to be quarantined for 14 days. They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity." Story continues In a second tweet he wrote: "That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of COVID19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play." Another doctor, Jonathan Reiner, a professor of medicine and surgery at the George Washington University's medical school, added in a tweet: "By taking a joy ride outside Walter Reed the president is placing his Secret Service detail at grave risk." Reiner added: "In the hospital when we go into close contact with a COVID patient we dress in full PPE: Gown, gloves, N95, eye protection, hat. This is the height of irresponsibility." A White House spokesman, Judd Deere, said the drive had been "cleared by the medical team as safe," adding that "appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the president and all those supporting it, including PPE," The Guardian reported. In his video statement, Trump described his coronavirus infection as a "very interesting journey" during which he "learned a lot" about COVID-19. He was taken to Walter Reed on Friday shortly after it was made public that he had tested positive for the virus. "I learned it by really going to school," he said in the video. "This is the real school. This isn't the 'let's read the book' school. I get it, and I understand it. And it's a very interesting thing, and I'm going to be letting you know about it." Read the original article on Business Insider Prime Minister Imran Khan is facing the biggest challenge to his leadership from opposition parties that united over the weekend to appoint firebrand cleric Maulana Fazalur Rehman to lead the freshly-minted 11 party anti-government alliance trying to unseat him. Rehman had last year the first round of his campaign against Imran Khan when he launched the Azadi March from Karachi to the capital city of Islamabad against the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf, or PTI government. That effort had fizzled out. This time, Khans orange-turbaned rival has support from other parties to keep the street protests going. A 26-point resolution adopted by the coalition - they call it Pakistan Democratic Movement - a fortnight earlier seeks to force the selected prime ministers resignation and an end to the role of the establishment in politics. It also wants to ensure the end of establishments interference in politics, a reference to the army. The oppositions combined attack on the powerful military is unusual in Pakistan; the army has ruled Pakistan for roughly half of its 73-year history and often had the last word in the countrys governance for the other half. Like Imran Khans critics say, it does now. That it was Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa who summoned political parties to a secret meeting last month to build consensus on turning the Gilgit Baltistan in the occupied northern areas into Pakistans fifth province at Chinas behest underlined the role that the military was playing in the countrys politics. It is saddening that the situation has escalated to the level where we now have a state above the state, Nawaz Sharif said at the first opposition conference late last month, echoing their sentiment that Imran Khan was their proxy. His daughter and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz - who has been fronting the partys battles with the government in the absence of Pakistans three-time prime minister - has been among the loudest to demand action against retired Lt Gen Asim Saleem Bajwa, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor chairman and PM Khans aide on corruption charges. Also Read: Imran Khan faces pushback over Gilgit-Baltistan move. China ties his hands Imran Khan, who came to power on the back of populist assurances to root out corruption, faces allegations that his anti-corruption drive only aims at opposition leaders. In July this year, Pakistans top court also remarked in one case that the anti-corruption watchdog appeared reluctant in proceeding against people on one side of the political divide. A Pakistan watcher in New Delhi said it is not a surprise that the National Accountability Bureau arrested Pakistans Leader of the Opposition and PML-N President Shahbaz Sharif soon after the first opposition conference. Nawaz Sharif is no hero but he represents the very essence of democratic choice, he said, stressing that investigations directed at Nawaz Sharif and his family were important since he was the only leader to stand up to the army. In the absence of her father who is in exile in London, Maryam Sharif has been taking a blunt aim at the military. She has called Gen Bajwas meeting last month on Gilgit-Baltistan as an attempt by the military to tighten its grip over the countrys politics. These decisions should be made in parliament, not in GHQ (army headquarters), she said. A second Pakistan watcher in Delhi said there was an assessment that Maryam Sharifs shrill pitch against the military did appear to expose her to serious risk of physical harm. She hasnt backed down from her sharp criticism of the military and Imran Khan despite her uncles arrest. Street protests and mega rallies had been Imran Khans favourite tool to build public opinion against the Nawaz Sharif government back. Analysts say that the opposition doesnt expect to succeed in the short term but is building the momentum to overthrow the Khan regime, quite like the 2014 Azadi march that he had led against Nawaz Sharif. Khan faces other challenges as well, some of them much more immediate. Next months meeting of the Financial Action Task Force, or FATF, is one. The meeting, scheduled for 21-23 October, is to decide on Imran Khans request to take Pakistan off the global watchdogs grey list. An Indian counter-terror official said Islamabad was likely to be disappointed given its patchy record of implementing anti-terror laws. That would make it hard for Khans government to access international markets at a time when the countrys economy has been faltering. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 19:18:45|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BRUSSELS, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen on Monday tweeted that she had decided to self-isolate after contact with a COVID-19 patient. Von der Leyen attended a meeting last Tuesday where a participant tested positive on Sunday, she tweeted. The test the chief executive of the European Union went through Thursday showed negative results. She would retest on Monday and is to remain in self-isolation until at least Tuesday. People who have been in high-risk contact with infected patients must remain at home for seven days, starting from when they have contact with the infected person, according to containment measures in Belgium, where the commission is located. High-risk contacts refer to contact longer than 15 minutes in an enclosed space and with less than 1.5 meters of distance. On Sept. 29, von der Leyen was in Lisbon, Portugal meeting officials including Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa. She gave a speech at the Champalimaud Foundation and attended the Council of State. Enditem Watch: Film fans spot Tom Cruise riding on top of a train Tom Cruise has been spotted casually riding on the roof of a speeding train by fans in Norway, as the latest leg of Mission: Impossible 7 shoot wraps. In a video posted to TikTok, Cruise grins broadly and waves to the cheering onlookers driving in a car alongside the track. The movie's camera crew all seem well secured to the top of the old fashioned carriage Cruise, however, not so much. Read more: Tom Cruises most dangerous stunts As if to accent this, the video comes complete with the automatic content warning: The action in this video could result in serious injury. Indeed. Director Christopher McQuarrie posted his own dramatic shot of the scene to his Instagram account, with a blurred helicopter in the background and Cruise scrapping on the roof. He also paid tribute to the authorities in Norway for accommodating them. Norways scale and beauty have left an indelible and defining imprint on our film and reminded us that anything is possible, he said On behalf of everyone working on Mission: Impossible, our sincerest thanks to The Norwegian Film Incentive, The Norwegian Railway Museum, the infinitely patient Stranda and Rauma Municipalities, our endlessly enduring Norwegian crew, along with everyone who supported our filming here. Story continues And, of course... The Mountain. Read more: Tom Cruise to shoot a movie in space Most of all, we give thanks to the warm and welcoming people of Norway. Your kindness and consideration are nothing less than an inspiration. Well miss you dearly and look forward to seeing you again. Tusen hjertelig takk. (or 'thanks a lot'). Nice to see train museums finally getting their due. Watch: Tom Cruise filmed performing stunts for M:I 7 It comes a few weeks after jaw-dropping footage emerged of a separate stunt, involving Cruise riding a motorbike off a cliff, before deploying a parachute and landing safely in the valley below in front of a crowd of adoring fans. The shoot is now heading for Rome, returning to Italy months after it was forced to hang up its cables in February this year. Tom Cruise during a parachute jump down the mountain Helsetkopen near to Hellesylt, Norway, during the recording of the next Mission: Impossible movie (Credit: Geir Olsen/NTB scanpix via AP) It was among the very first high-profile movies to abandon filming in the midst of the growing coronavirus pandemic. M:I 7 was shooting in Venice, with the Lombardy region being the epicentre of the European outbreak of COVID-19. The movie is currently slated for release in November, 2021. Victorian students in years 7-10 will begin to return to classrooms along with all other year levels from next week, Premier Daniel Andrews has announced. Year 7 students will return to school next Monday, October 12. Years 8-10 will return from Monday, October 26. Melbourne woke to a wet Monday morning, with 14 days to get average daily case numbers down to five in order for further lockdown restrictions to be eased. Credit:Chris Hopkins The staggered return is designed to manage movement across the community as Melbourne moves further out of stage four lockdown restrictions. However Victorian Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton has said he believes it is a "line ball"at this stage, whether the state will meet its targets of fewer than five new cases on average per day and fewer than five mystery cases overall in two weeks time. An ally of the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi and former Commissioner for Health in Rivers state, Dr. Sampson Parker has dumpe... An ally of the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi and former Commissioner for Health in Rivers state, Dr. Sampson Parker has dumped his former boss to align with Governor Nyesom Wike. Parker and Amaechi have shared over 15 years of friendship. Parker, who held sway as Commissioner for Health in Rivers State under Amaechi for 8 years, said this when he led his followers to defect to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Okochiri, Okrika Local Government Area of the State. The former Commissioner described his defection as home coming to the PDP family, stating that his conscience and soul are at peace with his decision. He declared that following Amaechi to the All Progressives Congress, APC, was a mistake. He said, There comes a time in the life of a man when he is called by man and God to make decisions that are right but may not be popular. Those are pivotal times in the life of such an individual when he must look into the deep recesses of his heart. With the fall season here, colder weather will soon be upon us. New Jersey residents are still required to wear a face mask outside when social distancing is difficult or impossible. Disposable face masks are among the better options when it comes to protecting against the coronavirus, but theyre not necessarily the warmest if you plan to be outdoors. Instead, you might want to invest in a thicker face covering or one with layers. Here are several options where you can buy face coverings specifically designed for colder weather, especially if you plan on engaging in outdoor activities where you cant socially distance. (There are tons of options if you still need a face mask to wear indoors or a place like the gym.) --Kohls has several balaclavas that were popular picks back in March before a variety of actual face masks hit the retail market. They are also among the cheapest out there. --Amazon has a two-pack of Winter Thermal Face Coverings for $18.90. --L.L. Bean is selling a Knit Non-Medical Mask for $10, and its available in five colors. Theres also the Cresta Wool 250 Balaclava for $40, along with the Classic Fleece Neckwarmer for $25. --Carhartt is selling a Knit Insulated Face Mask for $20. --Moosejaws Seirus Magnemask Combo Scarf is down to $26. --Nike is selling a Therma Sphere Adjustable Covering for the face and neck for $20. --Under Armour offers a Camo Fleece Gaiter for $35, along with its popular Sportsmask. --Dicks Sporting Goods is selling a Nike Mens Pro Hyperwarm Hood for $30, along with the Adidas Alphaskin Balaclava for the same price. --The North Face is selling the Patrol Balaclava for $35. Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust. Nicolette Accardi can be reached at naccardi@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter: @N_Accardi. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips The monsoon is likely to take longer to complete its withdrawal this year because of the influence of two low-pressure areas that are likely to bring widespread and heavy rain to Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and east Madhya Pradesh, weather scientists said. We dont see any indication of rains stopping immediately in east and northeast India and even eastern parts of central India. Withdrawal cannot be announced before rain stops completely and, in any case, northeast monsoon will set in over peninsular India from October 15 onwards, said K Sathi Devi, head of the India Meteorological Departments national weather forecasting centre. A low-pressure area is likely to form over the Andaman Sea around October 9 and is gradually likely to intensify into a depression over central Bay of Bengal during the next two days, moving towards the north Andhra Pradesh and Odisha coasts. There is also a low-pressure area presently lying over northwest Bay of Bengal and the adjoining Odisha coast which is likely to persist until October 5 and become less marked, but the cyclonic circulation associated with it is likely to move to south Chhattisgarh on October 6. Under the influence of current low-pressure area over northwest Bay of Bengal and adjoining Odisha coast, fairly widespread to widespread rain is likely over Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand and Gangetic West Bengal during the next four days. Also Read | Depression likely to form over Andaman Sea; widespread rains can delay monsoon withdrawal Isolated heavy rainfall is likely over Odisha during October 4 to 6, over Jharkhand on October 4, 6 and 7, over Bihar on October 6 and 7, over Chhattisgarh from October 4 to 7; the fresh low-pressure area is likely to trigger rainfall over Odisha and coastal Andhra Pradesh from October 11 to 13. Monsoon withdrawal from the eastern side will be delayed. It will withdraw from northwest India, including Gujarat but will not withdraw very quickly from east India. Another well-marked low pressure area is likely to move from Gulf of Thailand to Bay of Bengal around October 16, said Mahesh Palawat, vice president, climate change and meteorology, Skymet Weather, a private forecaster. This is also the cyclone season because the north Bay of Bengal is warmer and there is less wind shear (a zone of change in wind direction and velocity) when the monsoon withdraws, he added. DS Pai, senior scientist at IMD-Pune, said that as of now the likely depression over Andaman Sea will not intensify into a cyclone but since October is typically the cyclone season, development of more such systems can be expected. Also Read | After 61 years, India records two consecutive years of above normal rain This year, the monsoons withdrawal started from west Rajasthan on September 29. Last year, the monsoon started withdrawing only on October 9 against the normal date of September 1 and prolonged rains brought a deluge to parts of Maharashtra, Kerala and Bihar in August when rains usually diminish. The monsoon withdrew completely only by October 17. The monsoon season officially ended on September 30. This years monsoon season recorded total rainfall equal to 108.7% of the long-period average (LPA), the third highest since 1990, behind only 1994 and 2019 when rainfall equal to 112% and 110% of LPA was recorded. RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC, October 1, 2020 - BASF announced the divestiture of its entire global Vector insect light fly trap business to AP&G, Co., Inc. Financial details of the transaction are not being disclosed. The Vector insect light fly trap business had been part of BASFs Agricultural Solutions Professional & Specialty Solutions division. The divisions portfolio includes a wide range of niche customer segments such as urban and rural pest control, professional vegetation management, public health and other specialty markets. This decision to divest the Vector light business to AP&G will ensure our focus is on our key brands and advances our global product portfolio strategy, said Ron Kehler, Vice President, Global Professional & Specialty Solutions, BASF Agricultural Solutions. We are thrilled to add the Vector brand to the Catchmaster portfolio, said Jonathan Frisch, Vice President of Sales & Marketing, AP&G Co. The Vector brand is iconic in the Pest Control Industry and combining their innovative insect light traps with trusted Catchmaster glue boards allows us to further our goal of providing intelligent pest solutions to pest management professionals. About BASFs Agricultural Solutions division With a rapidly growing population, the world is increasingly dependent on our ability to develop and maintain sustainable agriculture and healthy environments. Working with farmers, agricultural professionals, pest management experts and others, it is our role to help make this possible. Thats why we invest in a strong R&D pipeline and broad portfolio, including seeds and traits, chemical and biological crop protection, soil management, plant health, pest control and digital farming. With expert teams in the lab, field, office and in production, we connect innovative thinking and down-to-earth action to create real world ideas that work for farmers, society and the planet. In 2019, our division generated sales of 7.8 billion. For more information, please visit www.agriculture.basf.com or any of our social media channels. About BASF BASF Corporation, headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has more than 20,000 employees in North America and had sales of $19.7 billion in 2018. For more information about BASFs North American operations, visit www.basf.com. At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. The approximately 122,000 employees in the BASF Group work on contributing to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio is organized into six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of around 63 billion in 2018. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the U.S. Further information at www.basf.com. About AP&G Co., Inc. AP&G Co., Inc. is a leading manufacturer of Intelligent Pest Management solutions headquartered in Bayonne, NJ. Utilizing a science-based approach, we create high-quality products for rodent, insect & mosquito management. Our roots go back to the early 1950s starting with the production of specialty adhesives. AP&G Co., Inc. introduced the Catchmaster brand in 1977 to deliver Intelligent Pest Management solutions to pest management professionals worldwide. For more information on AP&G CO., Inc. and Catchmaster please visit www.catchmasterpro.com. We stayed here for a long weekend and were all very impressed with the place. The hotel is located within a shopping center and is split into 2 halves. There is a big clean reception, currently all kitted out with necessary COVID precautions. The staff spoke perfect English but I also heard them speaking French, and I dare say other languages too. Check in was easy, we arrived before our room was available but we were able to get changed and leave our bags in a secure area so we could go and use the pool, if you are staying you get a card you can exchange for a clean towel every day. For the standard rooms, in order to get the pool you need to go across the shopping center (about 5 meters) to the lifts and take them up to 11th floor. I think the rooms with balconies are all located on this side of the hotel. The rooftop pool is lovely, great views, lovely pool. It isn't deep (110cm) but long and more than adequate for cooling down. When we were there, there were plenty of beds for everyone, not sure what it would be like at busier times though. The pool is absolutely freezing but once you have managed to get in, very refreshing! There is a bar with drinks and snacks/meals, all pretty reasonably priced for a hotel. The pool and the area was very clean, all plastic cups (but not cheap nasty ones) so no issues with broken glass. The room was fantastic and the bed was incredibly comfortable and HUGE!! There seemed to be plenty of storage, there is a fridge you can use plus a decent hair dryer which is always a bonus. There is a TV but we didn't use it so not sure what channels were available, Decent bathroom with toiletries provided, water pressure wasn't great but that is me being picky, plus a kettle with complimentary tea/coffee. We didn't have a balcony or sea view but we opted for a standard room so not an issue. We did look out over some building works which we could hear in the morning but were not particularly intrusive. Plus it is in the middle of a town so this sort of noise is to be expected. Breakfast was amazing, there is a wide choice of hot breakfast, continental, fruits, cereals. There is still the buffet but the staff will put everything on your plate and hand it over to reduce infection risk. We had requested 2 rooms next to each other, which we got. I would say the walls are very thin and we could hear our friends talking in the next room. For us not an issue as we were travelling together but wouldn't be great if you didn't know your 'neighbours'. I didn't hear any noise from the corridor though so that was a bonus. I would definitely recommend this hotel, very clean, tidy, great staff and great value for money. A bit bizarre being on 2 sides of the shopping center (but as I mentioned before only 5 -10 meters or so apart) but not an issue. There is hand sanitiser everywhere which you are encouraged to use and masks have to be worn in all public areas. It is located right next to the main street with all the bars on it, plus about 2 minutes from the beach and some other restaurants. Myanmar & COVID-19 Myanmars KBZ Takes Leading Role in Countrys Fight Against COVID-19 The Inya Lake Center is now under construction at the Yangon Convention Center. It will have capacity to house and treat 500 COVID-19 patients. / Aung Kyaw Htet / The Irrawaddy YANGONMyanmars Kanbawza Bank (KBZ) and its affiliated companies have been at the forefront of the countrys fight against COVID-19, contributing a whopping 7.4 billion kyats (US$5.7 million) as of Sunday, with its latest assistance going to build a 500-bed temporary hospital in coronavirus-hit Yangon. Calling the situation a national crisis, senior managing director U Nyo Myint vowed that the group would continue its support not only for measures to contain the coronavirus, but also for acquiring vaccines. It is a national crisis. At this critical time, facing a life-threatening disease that could devastate the country, we are committed to supporting [Myanmar] to the best of our ability and donating more than we ever have before, he said. Because Myanmar lacks sufficient health and social welfare resources, donations and assistance from well wishers, either individually or institutionally, across the country have played a major role in efforts at disease prevention, control and treatment. Since COVID-19 hit Myanmar in March, State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has urged members of the public to contribute what they can to help tackle the crisis. Following her request, citizens both at home and abroad have poured in cash donations. Many companies in the country have also made contributions by donating cash, food, medical supplies and personal protective gear to the government. Yet, among business groups in the country, few have contributed as much to the pandemic response as KBZ bank and its affiliated companies, which are active in mining, banking, aviation, hospitality and other areas. Starting even before COVID-19 actually reached Myanmar, they have been in alert mode, raising 100 million kyats so far for pandemic prevention measures. When health workers voiced concern at the lack of personal protective gear just as the country was reporting its first COVID-19 cases in late March, KBZ airlifted $1 million worth of hospital supplies, including personal protective equipment (PPE), surgical masks and other items from China and handed them over to the government to fulfill the urgent public health need. It turned out to be the first in a series of contributions to Myanmars fight against the outbreak, which seems unlikely to end until an internationally approved vaccine is developed. During the countrys first 10-day lockdown in April, they handed out food packages and cash aid to the poor affected by the disease, while contributing 500 million kyats ($384,000) to the government to set up COVID-19 billboards and posters to raise public awareness across the country. It spent 50 million kyats on a stress release program for those under quarantine and to cover phone bills for volunteers, and their Air MAI airlifted more than 700 Myanmar citizens who were stranded overseas and arranged essential cargo deliveries. Amid the fight against COVID-19, the countrys de facto leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has held occasional videoconferences via Facebook Live with those working on the frontlines to learn about and discuss the situation on the ground. During a videoconference on April 30, Deputy Director General (Lab) of the National Health Laboratory Dr. Htay Htay Tin told Daw Aung San Suu Kyi that due to the citys frequent power blackouts, the laboratory needed a power generator for its COVID-19 testing machine, and for its freezers, which store test samples. Given the important role of the labit was the only one in the country at the time that could test for the coronavirusKBZ immediately donated a generator worth 125 million kyats ($96,000) to the lab in Yangon. We have been able to respond quickly after learning the requirements through the (video)conferences, U Nyo Myint said, adding that information obtained via the conferences led to the group providing cash and food to needy quarantine centers in Rakhine, Chin and Kayah states. Then came the second wave. Until mid-August, Myanmar seemed to have COVID-19 under control, with only occasional new cases being reported and no local transmissions at all for a one-month period. Since Aug. 16, however, the country has been in the grip of a resurgence of COVID-19. Between Aug. 16 and Oct. 4 the number of cases jumped from 374 to 17,794, including 412 deaths. To fill the need for beds for the rapidly rising number of new patients, and quarantine space for those who have come into contact with them, especially in Yangonthe outbreaks epicentertemporary hospitals are being prepared in a rush. One such facility now under construction is the Inya Lake COVID Center at the Yangon Convention Center in Mayangone Township. Alongside contributions from other donors, the largest share of the cost of the center, which will house 500 COVID-19 patients, was covered by KBZ, which put in 700 million kyats ($538,000). Ko Zaw Ye Naung, a KBZ representative on the centers work-implementing committee, said the facility will offer free meals and medication for patients. He added that accommodation and a 24-hour food court will also be provided for doctors, nurses, health workers and volunteers at the center, which is due to be complete on Friday. During the second wave of the COVID-19 outbreak, conflict-torn Rakhine State in western Myanmar has also been badly hit, with many townships seeing a surge in locally transmitted cases. The state has the second-largest number of COVID-19 cases after Yangon. Ko Lu Aye from We Love Rakhine, a charity organization based in the Rakhine State capital, Sittwe, said donations from organizations like KBZ, philanthropic foundations and individuals have played a vital role in meeting the need for food and medical supplies in the state. I really grateful for their donations, he told The Irrawaddy, adding that with COVID-19 travel restrictions and stay-at-home orders having been in place for one-and-a-half months in the state, basic food support is badly needed in many townships. KBZs U Nyo Myint said the group would donate cash and medical supplies to five more townships in Rakhine State this week, following its donations to the states five worst-affected townships last week. While the pandemic has brought with it an economic storm, which continues to impact workers and businesses, it has also brought a chance for business enterprises to show a compassionate side as they help the country fight the disease. Now is not the time to worry about the future, whether business will be good or whether we will we get the same benefits and save for [future activities]. We can do business as long as our economy is stable and our people are healthy, U Nyo Myint said. This is why the group has been on the frontline in making donations to support the battle against COVID-19, he said. We dont know how long COVID-19 will last. A vaccine will be pivotal to bring the disease under control, he added. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi told the public late last month that plans are underway to make a vaccine available to the public as soon as one is developed, and approved by the WHO. U Nyo Myint said it will be important to get everyone vaccinated as soon as a vaccine becomes available. The government will try its best to make it available to all. We at KBZ will support [that effort] as much as we can. You may also like these stories: In Myanmar, Concerns That Chinas Help on COVID-19 Comes With Strings Attached How Will Candidates Reach Myanmar Voters Amid COVID-19 Restrictions? Myanmars Suu Kyi Cancels First Campaign Trip as Health Minister Intervenes Over COVID-19 Concerns Home Minister of Bangladesh, Asaduzzamn Khan, on October 4, issued various instructions that restricted certain activities during Durga Puja amid the pandemic. According to reports by DailyBangladesh, the instructions were announced in a virtual meeting and the leaders of the Sarbajanin Puja Committee have been asked to ensure that people follow all the provided instructions. Also, the Puja Udjapan Committee will be coordinating with the local administrations for managing the puja mandaps. Read: Durga Puja 2020: CM Mamata Banerjee Issues SOP, Cancels All Cultural Programmes This Year Restrictions during Durja Puja Various health guidelines including social distancing, mandatory use of masks and hand sanitizers have also been issued. Police forces will be monitoring the situation during the festivities. According to a tally by the John Hopkins University, Bangladesh has a total of 368,690 cases with 5,348 fatalities. Read: COVID-19: Bengal Govt Issues Notification Announcing Norms To Be Followed In Durga Puja Pandals The Home Ministry has requested all the committees to limit the number of Puja Mandaps. The committees have also decided to lessen the number of public gatherings at the Puja Mandap. It has also been urged that various ceremonies should be held by keeping religious harmony in mind. The meeting further emphasized on making people aware of the second wave of the novel coronavirus. All committees have been asked to dial 999 in case of emergency. Read: COVID-19 Vaccine: Chinese Company Seeks Co-financing For Phase-3 Trial In Bangladesh Also Read: COVID-19 Vaccine: Chinese Company Seeks Co-financing For Phase-3 Trial In Bangladesh (Image Credits: PTI) DALLAS, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Reina Rebelde, the first makeup line authentically celebrating Latinas' unique cultural duality with high-quality products that bring out the pride in their heritage, the fierceness of their spirit and their unapologetic beauty, is proud to announce its newest retail partner Walmart. This retail expansion comes with a celebration of Dia de los Muertos with an exclusive product assortment featuring three new products. Starting today, Reina Rebelde can be found at more than 350 Walmart stores via an endcap display featuring a unique selection of Reina Rebelde products to get you ready for Dia de los Muertos, including two reformulated products the 4 Play Wet Dry Eye Color in Azteca and the On Your Face Contour + Color Trio in Coqueta and an all new Lip Brilliance color in Bomba. "As a self-funded, Latina-owned and operated makeup brand, I could have never imagined that four years into this journey, I'd see Reina Rebelde in Walmart stores," says Regina Merson, Founder and CEO, Reina Rebelde. "I created Reina Rebelde for our Latinx community to be authentically seen and heard in the beauty industry. Walmart is helping a Latinx small business grow and allowing Reina Rebelde to be more accessible to Latinxs across the country, while bringing our multi-faceted culture to life by celebrating my favorite holiday Dia de los Muertos." As part of the Walmart celebration, Reina Rebelde is hosting a free virtual masterclass on the artistry of Catrinas led by influencer/makeup artist @RogerMuru on Monday, October 26 at 7pm EST. To attend the Catrina masterclass, anyone who makes a Reina Rebelde purchase at Walmart or Walmart.com, can submit their receipt as proof of purchase to [email protected]. Then, the Reina Rebelde team will follow-up with the log in details to join the virtual Catrina masterclass. Plus, Reina Rebelde invites the community to share their Catrinas on Instagram for a chance to win a $100 Walmart gift card. To enter, post your Catrina, tag @ReinaRebelde @walmart and #RRxDiaDeLosMuertos. Photos should be posted to public accounts by November 3. The Reina Rebelde for Walmart Dia De Los Muertos collection includes some of Reina Rebelde best-selling and award-winning products such as the Bold Lip Color Sticks, Rebel Eye Definer Liquid, and Rebel Eye Paint for Brows + Eyes. Additionally, three new products are exclusively launching at Walmart, including two reformulated products, 4 Play Wet Dry Eye Color in Azteca and On Your Face Contour + Color Trio in Coqueta, and an all new Lip Brilliance color in Bomba. After carefully listening to consumer feedback, Coqueta was reformulated to add even more pearl and a warmer highlighter with a stunning champagne to compliment an even broader range of skin tones. Azteca's new formula features the same shades, but packs a much stronger color payoff. The Lip Brilliance in Bomba is a totally new product addition to the Lip Brilliance collection. Expanding on the best-selling nude colors, Bomba adds another versatile shade of high-pigment, long-wearing mauve gloss that looks stunning alone and works as a beautiful gloss topper to any of the Bold Lip Color Sticks. For more information, visit your nearest Walmart or Walmart.com. ABOUT REINA REBELDE Launched in 2016 and founded by proud Mexican-American Regina Merson, Reina Rebelde is an independently-owned cosmetics company with products inspired by and made for Latinas, and aimed at celebrating the dynamic cultural duality of today's Latinas with high-quality products that bring out the pride in their heritage, the fierceness of their spirit and the mysteriousness of their beauty. For more information or to shop the full Reina Rebelde collection and exclusive products/bundles, visit ReinaRebelde.com. Follow Reina Rebelde on social media at @ReinaRebelde on Instagram, Reina Rebelde Cosmetics on Facebook, and @RRebeldeBeauty on Twitter. SOURCE Reina Rebelde Related Links http://ReinaRebelde.com Newly appointed BJP National General Secretary C T Ravi on Monday said that Congress leader D K Shivakumar must face a CBI probe for his wealth instead of blaming the BJP. Ravi, who was here to assume charge as the ruling party's national general secretary, said that Congress leaders should trust the government's independent institutions instead of calling it a political vendetta. Read: CBI case comes two years after ED booked Shivakumar on money laundering charges "If Shivakumar made ill-gotten wealth, he will face the probe. What is wrong in it?" Ravi asked the reporters. "Let Shivakumar explain to the investigating agency how he made a huge amount of money during his political career. What products has he been growing in his agriculture lands that gave him so much wealth?" he asked. "How did he make wealth worth crores? Let the truth come out. If Shivakumar has not done anything, then why he is worrying?" Ravi asked. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. Azerbaijan is striking densely populated parts of Artsakh, aiming to inflict huge human and material losses, ARMENPRESS reports Human Rights Defender of Artsakh Artak Beglaryans said. In the recent days Azerbaijan started to fire rockets and missiles against vital infrastructures of particularly Stepanakert and other settlements, including energy supply systems, communication systems, water and gas pipes. For this reason people in Stepanakert and other settlements were often deprived of the mentioned basic needs, Beglaryan said. According to the Human Rights Defender of Artsakh, all these clearly show that Azerbaijan aims to totally destroy Artsakhs vital civilian infrastructures, which is not only a war crime, but crime against humanity. This can lead to a serious humanitarian disaster. Fortunately, the state is able to carry out restoration works, as a result of which the consequences are not so severe for the population, but if this continues it can lead to serious humanitarian consequences, Beglaryan said. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany briefed the press without wearing a face mask on Sunday even though one of her deputies had tested positive for the coronavirus a few days earlier. Chad Gilmartin and Karoline Leavitt, both deputy press secretaries who report to McEnany, tested positive for COVID, according to CNN. Leavitt tested positive a few days ago and Gilmartin did within the last 24 hours, although the exact timing is unclear. Gilmartin is a cousin of McEnany's husband, Sean Gilmart. Both Gilmartin and Leavitt joined the press shop with McEnany. Gilmartin sits outside of McEnany spacious office in the upper part of the press shop where Leavitt sits in what's called 'lower press' - the office space right behind the podium in the White House press room. McEnany, 32, was at the White House on Friday and Sunday after President Donald Trump and senior adviser Hope Hicks, whom she'd had exposure to, tested positive for the virus. She wore a mask on Friday, when she stood on the South Lawn of the White House watching President Trump board Marine One for his trip to Walter Reed Medical Center, and wore one she walked to media interviews on Sunday. She took it off, however, when she talked to the press on the White House driveway. But officials defended the press secretary, saying she is an 'essential' worker who was expected to be on the job and noted it can be hard to hear someone who is speaking outside with a mask on. Kayleigh McEnany briefed the press without wearing a face mask on Sunday even though her deputy tested positive for COVID a few days before White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany on Friday with her deputy Chad Gilmartin (to her right), Gilmartin and another deputy tested positive for COVID before McEnany White House deputy press secretary Karoline Leavitt tested positive for COVID a few days ago White House staff took to Twitter to defend Kayleigh McEnany White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany wore a face mask on Sunday to walk to her interviews outside the White House but took it off to talk to reporters White House Director of Strategic Communications Alyssa Farah noted she, McEnany and other senior staff in the administration were deemed 'essential' by the Centers for Disease Control and the Department of Homeland Security. 'One thing I want to clear up: Senior White House staff are deemed Essential Personnel by CDC & DHS. This means they are expected to continue to work - while taking precautions - until a medical recommendation otherwise is given,' she wrote on Twitter. Farah, 31, was also at the White House on Sunday, when she spoke with reporters without wearing a face mask. Several White House correspondents noted on Twitter that McEnany briefed the media without a mask on Sunday. White House deputy chief of staff and senior communications adviser Ben Williamson pushed back, noting McEnany only answered two questions and spoke to the media for less than a minute while staying socially distanced. 'For those asking about this: @PressSec briefly removed her mask at the mic to answer questions, was there for two questions and only 58 seconds (would not constitute sustained contact per the CDC), and was socially distanced from reporters in the area,' he wrote on Twitter. Deputy White House press secretary Brian Morgenstern noted it can be hard to hear someone speaking when they wear a mask. Well wear a mask when we cant socially distance. When youre outside and youre standing back from everyone it may be easier to hear if we dont wear one, he told Fox News on Monday in an interview from the South Lawn of the White House. He was not wearing a mask for the interview but told host Dana Perino he would put one on after he was finished speaking with her. He noted he wears a masks in the White House when he can't socially distance. But the logistics of the White House make socially distancing virtually impossible - a fact that has been noted time and again since the pandemic began. The hallways are cramped and small. Office space in the West Wing is at such a premium that staff assistants and junior staffers can share a desk. Senior staff usually have a spacious office but the lower tier staffers are packed in like sardines. McEnany has a spacious office as press secretary with Farah and Morgenstern in nice sized offices outside of hers. But crammed in a room outside their offices are four assistants. Meanwhile, other senior staff - who have been exposed to the president and/or Hicks at various points last week - have briefed reporters without wearing face coverings. White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, 61, briefed reporters on the White House drive way on Friday, also not wearing a mask. He said it was because he tested negative that morning. White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow, 73, also briefed reporters later that day, taking off his mask to do so, saying he, too, had been tested. White House senior staff are tested daily with the Abbott test, a rapid results test for the coronavirus that has an accuracy rate of 50 per cent to 80 per cent. McEnany announced Monday she has tested positive for the COVID virus, adding to the ranks of President Trump's senior staff who have contracted the disease. She had been tested repeatedly since Trump and Hicks tested positive. She said she has no symptoms but will begin the quarantine process. 'After testing negatively consistently, including every day since Thursday, I tested positive for COVID-19 on Monday morning while experiencing no symptoms,' she said in a statement posted to Twitter. 'As an essential worker, I have worked diligently to provide needed information to the American People at this time. With my recent positive test, I will begin the quarantine process and continue working on behalf of the American people,' she noted. Associated Press reporter Zeke Miller, the president of the White House Correspondents' Association, wished McEnany the best and noted there were no additional cases among White House reporters. Three tested positive last week. 'We wish Kayleigh, the president and everyone else struggling with the virus a swift recovery. As of this moment we are not aware of additional cases among White House journalists, though we know some are awaiting test results,' he said in a statement. 'We strongly encourage our members to continue following CDC guidance on mask-wearing and distancing especially when at the White House and urge journalists to seek testing if they were potentially exposed,' he added. Deputy White House press secretary Brian Morgenstern wears a face mask to speak to reporters in the White House drive way on Monday Alyssa Farah, White House Director of Strategic Communications, speaks to members of the media outside the West Wing of the White House on Sunday without wearing a face covering White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows talks to members of the media outside the White House on Friday and said he didn't wear face mask because he tested negative for COVID White House chief economic adviser Larry Kudlow also briefed reporters outside the White House on Friday and took off his mask to do so, saying he'd been tested for COVID White House reporters wear masks during McEnany's briefings and Trump's press conference even when she and the president did not. McEnany was also at last Saturday's announcement of Judge Amy Coney Barrett as President Trump's Supreme Court nominee, an event quickly becoming a ground zero for the White House after 15 people who were there tested positive for COVID. McEnany is the 13th. Leavitt and Gilmartin were also at that event. She note she does not believe she got the virus from a member of the media and reiterated she did not know about Hicks' positive test result when she held her press briefing at the White House on Thursday. 'No reporters, producers or members of the press are listed as close contacts by the White House Medical Unit. Moreover, I definitely had no knowledge of Hope Hicks diagnosis prior to holding a White House press briefing on Thursday,' she said. A 45-year-old man who was marooned on a large rock in the middle of a river in Jharkhands Simdega district Sunday evening, was rescued by the NDRF around 1.20 pm on Monday, police said. Police said Wilson Madki who had gone fishing with three others Sunday evening was swept away in a sudden flow of water and was stranded on a large rock mid-river. The incident took place at Ramjol village in Bano block of Simdega district, around 200 km from capital Ranchi and 72-km from Simdega district headquarter. Wilson has been rescued by an NDRF team, who came from Ranchi, around 1.20 pm. He is in good health and spirit, Simdegas superintendent of police (SP) Shams Tabrez said. A local person had tweeted a video of the stranded man and tagged chief minister Hemant Soren whose retweet set in motion the rescue attempt. A 15-member NDRF team from Ranchi, led by inspector Peter Paul Dungdung had left for Bano this morning to rescue Madki after Sorens retweet. Madki went to catch fish along with three other fellow fishermen of the village in the river around 6 pm on Sunday. Madki was swept away in a sudden flow of water in the river while the other three fishermen managed to swim back to the river bank, Tabrez said earlier. He said Madki was seen on a rock in the middle of the river after a few minutes of the incident. He remained there through the night and half of Monday before the NDRF rescued him. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sanjoy Dey Sanjoy Dey is principal correspondent in Jharkhand and writes on government, urban development, forest and environment, tourism, rural development and agriculture. He likes to write human interest stories. ...view detail Cookie Preferences Cookie List Cookie List A cookie is a small piece of data (text file) that a website when visited by a user asks your browser to store on your device in order to remember information about you, such as your language preference or login information. Those cookies are set by us and called first-party cookies. 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You may opt out of our use of such cookies (and the associated sale of your Personal Information) by using this toggle switch. You will still see some advertising, regardless of your selection. Because we do not track you across different devices, browsers and GEMG properties, your selection will take effect only on this browser, this device and this website. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 22:53:36|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- China's express delivery business showed heightened activity in September compared with the previous month, industrial data showed Monday. The China express delivery index stood at 108.1 percent last month, up 0.5 percentage points from August, according to the China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing. The index, based on data from large logistics firms operating delivery services, provides a perspective of business activity. In general, the express delivery sector sustained a sound momentum in business activity, reflecting a faster economic recovery, it said. Manufacturing activity continued to pick up, with the sub-index for express deliveries in the sector rising 0.4 percentage points month on month to 111.4 percent in September. Meanwhile, the sub-index for express deliveries in the service sector was 108.3 percent, 1.7 percentage points higher month on month. Enditem No taxpayer will miss out on a financial helping hand in the federal government's recession-busting budget as Treasurer Josh Frydenberg hopes to encourage consumers to spend any financial windfall to prop up the economy. Declaring people needed to have more money in their pockets "right now", the Treasurer on Sunday signalled the government's plan to bring forward its previously legislated tax cuts while also ensuring there is cash directed to those on low wages. Tax cuts and direct handouts to low-income earners are expected in Tuesday's budget in a bid to boost economy-wide spending. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer The stage two and three tax cuts, that are currently due to start in mid-2022 and mid-2024, skew towards middle and high-income earners. A person on $40,000, just above the minimum wage, gains just $100 extra a year from the 2022 tax cuts and nothing from the later ones. But someone earning $140,000 will be $2430 better off once the 2022 tax cuts begin and another $3410 in front once the 2024 tax cuts start operation. A wooden cart of hay trundles across the road. It's not pulled by horses, but a crew in high-vis jackets. Over the road at Bective Abbey, thatched shacks and huts line the river banks, ready for the movie stars to arrive on the set of The Last Duel. Back in 14th century France, where the movie is set, each round of plague threw medieval serfs into a crisis of faith. Was God punishing them with a pestilence? Now, as the religion of science is struggling to put an end to the pandemic, are we looking for God in all the new places? Are gratitude journals and rose quartz crystals replacing novenas and rosary beads in a secular search for connection? With Europe battling bouts of plague, war, and medicines that did more harm than good, it's easy to understand, with so much out of their control, that the veil between this life and the next was a lot thinner for our ancestors. Life was short, and almost everyone lost loved ones. The reaper was a part of each community as much as the blacksmith, as souls slipped in and out of being. With modern healthcare and science so advanced, the pandemic has given us a situation that all of our experts, scientists and politicians could not immediately halt. More than a million have died and our economies have taken a battering, so it's easy to see why we might renew our search for meaning. With the Catholic Church viewed by many as uncool, where are we turning for solace and an escape from secularism? Thirty years ago, the parish priest and the weekly bulletin served to convey spiritual instruction. Now it's possible to take an entire journey of self-examination without leaving the house, or even looking away from the smartphone. A growing cabal of YouTubers are producing spiritual content as millennials seek to understand the world around them. If they are to be believed, the world is undergoing a spiritual awakening. Leading us through it are thousands of gurus, ranging from self-taught influencers, bloggers and channelers to neuroscientists. Neuroscientist Dr Joe Dispenza says "science is becoming the contemporary language of mysticism", in videos, podcasts and interviews. And these influencers can skirt spirituality with mindset and goal-setting. While some could argue that videos about the law of attraction are based on quantum physics, many have the tone and feel of religious content. Through Ella Ringrose videos, Abraham Hicks sound bites, or Aaron Doughty meditations, there has never been as much discussion of spiritual matters. It's the largest spread of ideas since the invention of the printing press. You won't find these influencers quoting scripture or mentioning Christianity, not in 2020. But earlier in the 20th century, spiritual teachers such as Florence Scovel Shinn and Neville Goddard regularly quoted the Gospels, referring to Jesus's abilities as a metaphysician. And who is consuming this content? The first generation of Irish children who weren't automatically baptised - or where some people sat out religion classes during first holy communion time - are now having their own children. Last Friday we had our baby baptised, in the smallest ceremony I've ever seen in a church. As anyone who has stood in the wind trying to keep the gown of a tiny baby puke-free knows, the ceremony is over so quickly. It requires a wealth of concentration skills to take the moment in on a spiritual level - as well as keeping the dummy out of the pictures. But why baptise him at all, what's the point? Why not a naming ceremony? Because in 2020, each person's relationship with God, whether that's what they call it or not, is so individual. So I don't need to lay it all out for you. The troubled history of the church in Ireland is nothing new, I am reminded by looking across the river at Bective Abbey, dissolved by Henry VIII. While millennials may have turned away from the church as an institution, and its branded content, it could be possible the search for meaning returns in other ways. Speaking on Miriam O'Callaghan a few weeks ago, Paul Dempsey, the new Bishop of Achonry, spoke of a welcoming church, giving a green light to what was previously considered a la carte Catholicism. But perhaps we moved one step further, to a la carte spirituality. Surely, in a search for meaning, God, good vibes, and love can come in many ways. Want to receive the sacrament of marriage, reiki for a sore back, and listen to the Tao Te Ching on your commute? As a society, maybe we're a little less hung up on being good Christians, settling instead for being good people. For those of us born after World War II, life is more fragile than perhaps we might have thought. Thank God, and the universe, that we're here to see it. Loans Canada has a long history in the mortgage industry, one that actually began earlier than 2012, when the companys founder, Scott Satov, launched an online mortgage brokerage named Mortgages Canada. Mortgages Canadas story began in 2010, with the goal to make it easier for Canadians to find financing for their homes online. The company pivoted in 2012 and relaunched under a new brand, Loans Canada, and was first-to-market as Canadas online loan comparison platform. Why is this important? Well, with its roots in Mortgages Canada, Loans Canada has experience working with mortgage specialists and understands many of the pain points that mortgage brokers feel. Loans Canada understands that trustworthy lead providers are difficult to find, and long-term relationships are key. Loans Canada offers full coverage across Canada (including Quebec, with its Prets Quebec brand) and specializes in mortgage refinancing applications. Loans Canada Offers Two Types Of Programs To Help Brokers: 1. Real-Time Lead Generation Users visit Loans Canada to apply for loans, mortgages, second mortgages and other refinancing products. Brokers are able to filter their leads by location or by financial metrics to ensure the leads they receive best match their business needs. Quality leads are delivered to in real-time, and they can be delivered by email, CSV, or by API. Typically, custom integrations take only 24-48 hours to launch. New Delhi, Oct 5 : A plea has been moved in the Supreme Court seeking imposition of President's rule in Uttar Pradesh in the backdrop of the alleged rape of a 19-year-old Dalit woman by upper caste men in Hathras, who succumbed to her injuries last week in Safdarjung hospital in Delhi. The plea filed by advocate C R Jaya Sukin said Uttar Pradesh ranks as the most unsafe state for women in the country and cited a string of incidents establishing gross violation of human rights in the state. The PIL, citing the annual report of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) released on January 2020, said a case of rape is registered with the Uttar Pradesh police every two hours while crime against a child is reported every 90 minutes in the state. "That report claims that 4,322 cases of rape were reported in 2018, with almost 12 taking place daily and state also recorded 59,445 crimes against women with 162 being reported every day, which indicates a surge of 7 per cent in 2017, when 56,011 crimes - 153 crimes per day - were registered", contended the PIL. The petitioner also cited the Kafeel Khan case, saying he was thrown into jail for months after pointing out the lack of oxygen cylinders because of which many children died in a Gorakhpur hospital. "Police used 'stun grenades' against the 'peacefully' protesting students at Aligarh Muslim University, nearly 100 students were injured, 20 of them critically, during the state police's crackdown at protesting students at the University in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, on December 15", said the plea. Citing the Hathras case, the petitioner said: "The victim, who belonged to the Dalit community, was raped by four men on September 14. The woman's family told local media that they found her naked, bleeding and paralyzed with a split tongue and a broken spine in a field outside their home. She died two weeks later, on Tuesday, after battling serious injuries in a hospital in New Delhi." The petitioner urged the Supreme Court to issue a direction, particularly in the nature of a writ, for imposition of Article 356 of the Constitution of India in Uttar Pradesh immediately. Prince William has been invited to take on Prince Harry's role Captain General of Royal Marines after the Duke of Sussex was stripped of military appointments after stepping back from royal duty, according to sources. Prince Harry, 36, entered into negotiations with the royal family after announcing his withdrawal as a senior royal in January, and was said to be 'devastated' by the agreement to give up his military honours, including the role of Captain General of Royal Marines. Now sources have claimed the Duke of Cambridge, 38, has been 'approached' with the view of taking on the role, and is 'keen' to take up the appointment. Insiders told the Express: 'The decision has been made to invite Prince William to take over this important duty, largely on the basis that the Duke of Sussex has given no reason to believe that he will alter current arrangements. Quite the opposite, in fact.' Sources have claimed Prince William, 38, has been invited to take on Prince Harry's, 36, role Captain General of Royal Marines after the Duke of Sussex was stripped of military appointments after stepping back from royal duty The source revealed: 'The Corps is, in effect, without a Captain General and we really must get on and fill this role.' Prince Harry was handed the role by the Queen in December 2017, succeeding the Duke of Edinburgh, after a long military career. The position was Prince Harry's highest profile military title before he stepped back from official military appointments in March. The duke 'regretted' having to stand down from his role in the military, and felt 'forced into it' after stepping down from royal duties, a source told The Sun at the time. The Duke was said to be 'devastated' by the agreement to give up his military honours, including the role of Captain General of Royal Marines, during Megxit negotiations (pictured, with Meghan Markle, 39, in March) Speaking after the Mountbatten Festival of Music at London's Royal Albert Hall in March, they revealed: 'He told people he regretted having to stand down and pretty much said the decision had been forced on him.' 'He was being apologetic and did not appear fully at ease. 'He is a genuine guy and you could see he was upset and emotional as this was one of the last times he would be in uniform among his men and women.' During his speech at the festival, Harry said: 'I am so proud to have served as the Royal Marines Captain and am devastated that I am having to step down. 'I feel I'm letting people down, but I had no choice.' The role of Captain General of Royal Marines was Prince Harry's highest profile military title (Seen: Prince Harry graduating from his military helicopter pilots course on the 7th of May 2010) It comes after another source claimed to Vanity Fair's Katie Nicholl that couple are enjoying their new life in California and their new home, and have no plans of returning to the UK for Christmas. They also suggested that Harry and Meghan might be trying to avoid tensions after the reported fall out of the 'Fab Four.' 'Let's just say that while things are better between Harry and his brother, it's not what it was, and I don't think anyone is ready for a cozy family Christmas right now,' the source added. It comes as historian and royal biographer Robert Lacey is set to release a book called Battle Of Brothers, which picks apart in uncompromising detail the feud between Prince William and Prince Harry. It comes days after Vanity Fair's Katie Nicholl said Meghan and Harry have no plans of returning to the UK for Christmas and might be trying to avoid tensions after the reported fall out of the 'Fab Four.' Speaking to the Daily Mail, he said: 'When I started to look into this supposed feud between the two princes, I didnt believe it. 'I thought it was newspapers stirring up something that wasnt there. I didnt want to believe it, in truth. None of us does. Yet it most definitely exists. Actually, its worse than anyone thinks.' He continued: Some say, Oh, it doesnt matter. It will blow over. But thats not what historians will be saying in ten years time. 'If this breach between the brothers is not healed in some way it will come to stand with the Abdication crisis and the death of Diana as one of the traumas that changed the monarchy. 'There is time to change things in a positive direction, but at the moment the Palace is not working in that direction. Barn Door Boutique, a womens clothing and accessory retail store located in Cambridge Square, is expanding its footprint and inventory according to the owner, Melissa Paryse; she anticipates opening the expanded space in late October of this year. Cambridge Square is a mixed-use community located in Ooltewah featuring numerous local restaurants, commercial and medical office space and a high-end residential district. Ms. Paryse, who purchased Barn Door Boutique in 2018 after working almost three decades in corporate banking, has significantly grown the business in her short tenure as owner/operator. Soon after opening, her daughter Alli Henry came on board as the stores marketing director, expanding the boutiques social media presence and customer relations. The mother-daughter team, against all national brick and mortar retail trends, have established Barn Door as an essential destination for womens fashion and accessories, said officials. While online retail continues to trend upward, an in-person shopping experience still has real value, said Jim Cheney, marketing director at Cambridge. Melissa and Alli understand this perhaps better than anyone else in the market, and we are thrilled to have such astute and forward-thinking operators. The fact that they are expanding their retail operation at Cambridge is very rewarding, and we are proud to have them as a member of the tenant family. The stores expansion will broaden Barn Doors inventory offering, providing additional lines of shoes as well as home decor and gifts. Currently the store carries brands such as Nora Fleming, HoBo, Diba, Dear John, Spanx, TopFoxx, GoodR, and Pura Vida. The expanded space is adjacent to the existing store; the two spaces connected by a common outdoor plaza which Paryse intends to activate for photo shoots and both virtual and in-person shopping events. Cambridge Square has been a great fit for us, said Ms. Paryse. From our incredible customers to the other small business owners in the square, we feel very much at home and are excited to be in a position to continue to grow. Our staff has helped us get where we are today and the loyalty we have experienced from the community at large has been humbling. We cant wait to expand the shopping experience at Barn Door! Patna, Oct 5 : With its top party leaders Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav facing murder charges, the RJD on Monday accused Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi of engaging in a criminal conspiracy against Tejashwi Yadav. Rashtriya Janata Dal's Rajya Sabha member Manoj Jha cited a phone number which was allegedly used to demand money from aspiring party candidates for allotment of ticket in the coming Assembly elections but was not registered with anyone as per the state-run telecom company. "The phone number 0612-2217222 belongs to Patna circle of BSNL, and was used by unknown persons for random calls to aspiring candidates of the RJD. Interestingly, when you call back on it, the name of Tejashwi Yadav emerge on Truecaller," he told media persons here. Jha said that this phone number was registered in the name of former Chief Minister Rabri Devi but it was disconnected on November 21, 2016. After this, it was allotted to the Forest Department office in Patna, but they also gave it up on March 18, 2019 and as per enquiries with BSNL, it has not been registered with anyone since then. "On September 19, a missed call from this number went to a RJD aspirant in Sitamarhi. Since, Tejashwi Yadav's name emerged on Truecaller, when he called back on that number, he was instructed to come to Patna with Rs 25 lakh via Lalganj town to get ticket. Another candidate of Muzaffarpur was also approached in a similar fashion. I have a long list of calls which were made from it to demand money from candidates," he said, waving a bunch of documents. "If that phone number is not registered with any person, then who is misusing it in the name of Tejashwi Yadav? I firmly believes that a conspiracy of such magnitude cannot be possible without the connivance of the ruling party. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi and their close ministers are involved in a conspiracy against Tejashwi Yadav to win this election," he added. Jha also hit out at BSNL for allowing this conspiracy to take place, saying that it has put a question mark on reputation of the institution. Noting Tejashwi Yadav has raised questions on unemployment, migrant labour, flood situation, law and order, crime against women and the '10 lakh jobs' promise, he alleged that the ruling party leaders have no answer to those points. "Hence, CM Nitish Kumar, Sushil Kumar Modi and other leaders of NDA are taken the politics of Bihar to such a low standard. They are using the conspiracy method to win this election," Jha said, demanding a fair investigation into the matter. Taking a dig at the Bihar Police, he said that its former DGP "used the government post to build his own political career". "It is enough to understand how Bihar Police is working under Nitish Kumar," he said. "Does the ruling party have any answer on whether the decisions taken by ex-DGP Gupteshwar Pandey during his tenure were fair?" he asked. Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav are embroiled in controversy after RJD's Dalit leader Shakti Malik was murdered by three unidentified men in the state's Purnea district on Sunday. Malik's wife has alleged that Tejashwi Yadav demanded Rs 50 lakh for ticket, and when her husband was unable to give money, Tejashwi abused him. She also levelled murder charges on him and Tej Pratap Yadav. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Achievement is an important step in expanding Loop's market footprint in the zero-emission vehicle market in China VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - Loop Energy, a hydrogen fuel cell company providing solutions for the commercial vehicle markets, announced today that Skywell New Energy Vehicles Group (Skywell) received index approval from China's Ministry of Industry & Information and Technology (MIIT) for a zero-emission public transport bus powered by Loop Energy's fuel cell engines. Manufactured with Loop Energy signature eFlow fuel cell stacks, the engines were supplied to Skywell by InPower Renewable Energy Loop's partner in a China-based fuel cell engine manufacturing joint venture. InPower has also provided a purpose designed DC-DC solution for the vehicle. This development signifies a major advancement of the previously announced cooperation between Loop Energy, In-Power and Skywell targeting the roll out of hydrogen electric buses as a part of Lishui District, Nanjing transit bus fleet. Skywell's newly released model NJ6106FCEV 10.5m long bus is manufactured by the company's subsidiary Nanjing Golden Dragon Bus Co., Ltd. The vehicle is equipped with a heavy-duty 50kW fuel cell engine, has a range of 450 kilometres with Loop's signature high fuel efficiency eFlow technology and can eliminate more than 100 tonnes of CO2 emitted per diesel bus annually. The vehicle can be found in MIIT's Catalogue of Recommended New Energy Vehicles, Batch 9, 2020. The approval signifies achievement of the mandated National Fuel Consumption Standard required for all new commercial heavy-duty vehicles sold in China. As a result, Skywell hydrogen electric buses with Loop Energy fuel cell engines are now ready for large-scale commercial deployment in China. "Loop Energy is pleased to congratulate Skywell on this critical step to transforming a significant portion of their Nanjing municipal bus fleet to zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell electric power" said Ben Nyland, President and Chief Executive Officer of Loop Energy. "As China seeks to expand its new national hydrogen program, it is an honor for our joint venture partner be the fuel cell supplier of choice to Skywell and the Nanjing Golden Dragon Bus Co., and we look forward to continued joint successes in the future." "Loop Energy has developed the most practical and efficient fuel engine solution that will not impact the payload, range, or refueling time of our zero-emission vehicles," said Ms. Zou Ran (Joanna), Director of External Affairs & Brand of Skywell New Energy Vehicles Group. "They will be the obvious first choice as a supply partner as we look to deploy similar sustainable fuel cell solutions across a wide range of our specialty and commercial vehicles including logistics trucks, dump trucks, refuse trucks, port vehicles, transit buses, street cleaners, and emergency vehicles." "InPower- Renewable Energy has made immense technical progress with the development of our DC-DC unit for heavy-duty fuel cell commercial vehicle applications in China," said John Zhang, Founder and President of IN-Power. "We look forward to intensifying our work with Skywell to expand the success of their fuel cell vehicle programs in China." Loop Energy's fuel cell stacks incorporate its proprietary eFlow technology to produce unmatched power and fuel efficiency. Its premier fuel cell engine products for heavy-duty trucks and buses, certified to GB/T standards and listed with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China (MIIT), are approved for vehicle indexing and afford multiple cost and performance benefits over traditional fuel cell designs including the industry's highest power density which results in substantial fuel cell manufacturing and system integration cost advantages. About Loop Energy Inc. Loop Energy provides zero-emission power systems for medium to heavy-duty transportation applications. Loop works with engine suppliers and vehicle manufacturers to design and deliver carbon-free motive solutions using both electric and hydrogen fuel cell technologies. For more information about how Loop Energy is driving the future of zero-emissions, visit www.loopenergy.com. About InPower-Loop Energy Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd. Founded in 2019, InPower-Loop Energy Technology Co. is a high-tech joint venture enterprise headquartered in the high-tech industrial park, Zhong Guan Cun, in Beijing. Formed to support China's growing demand for commercially viable zero-emission transport solutions, InPower-Loop Energy has combined the leadership and industry-leading products of Loop Energy's hydrogen fuel cell transport engine systems with InPower's power electronics equipment and manufacturing capabilities. For more information, please visit www.in-power.net About Skywell New Energy Vehicles Corp. Skywell New Energy Vehicles Corp., formed in 2011 following the acquisition of Nanjing Jinlong Bus Manufacturing Co., is a leading developer and global supplier of electric vehicles. With headquarters located in the Lishui Airport Economic Development Zone in Nanjing, China, with production factories located in Wuhan, Shenzhen and Xianyang, Skywell manufactures and markets an extensive range of sustainable vehicles from light-duty automobiles, to medium and heavy-duty buses, commercial and specialty fleet trucks. The company also operates buses in the Lishui district of China. www.skywellcorp.com SOURCE Loop Energy Inc. AirAsia Group Bhd. is closing its affiliate operations in India, the local aviation minister said over the weekend, a comment his office later suggested was taken out of context. AirAsias shop is anyway shutting down," Hardeep Singh Puri said in televised comments that were widely circulated on social media. Their parent company has problems." A spokesman for AirAsia India, which is majority owned by Indian conglomerate Tata Group, declined to comment. A spokesman for the civil aviation ministry said Puris comments were taken out of context and he had immediately clarified them. AirAsia, once the poster child of a low-cost airline revolution in Asia, is seeking to raise as much as 2.5 billion ringgit ($600 million) by the end of the year as the coronavirus disrupts travel globally. The Subang, Malaysia-based budget carrier posted its biggest-ever quarterly loss in August and has said it is evaluating its operations in Japan. A Reuters report earlier this year flagged its Indian operations may also be under review. AirAsia is closing its operations in Japan as it grapples with pandemic-related restrictions on global travel, local media reported last week. Chief Executive Officer Tony Fernandes later confirmed that exiting Japan is a possibility. AirAsia India started flying in 2014 with a promise to break even in four months. But its never made money in what is one of the worlds most difficult markets, where high fuel taxes and cut-throat fares often make operations unprofitable. The carrier, which has a market share of 6.8%, employs more than 3,000 people in the country. Tata Sons is reviewing the joint venture with AirAsia, and is in talks to buy out the 49% stake the Malaysian firm holds in the Indian affiliate, the Times of India newspaper separately reported on Monday, citing an unnamed source. AirAsia isnt keen on infusing more funds into the venture and instead wants it to take on debt, according to the report. Indias aviation regulator suspended two senior executives at AirAsia India in August after a pilot claimed there were safety lapses at the airline. Indian officials are also investigating Fernandes and other officials for allegedly paying bribes to influence local policy. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Dunyann en yakskl yuz erkegi Turkiyeden iki isim Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 5) An event held on Sunday in a Basilan town for war-affected children showed the lack of strict implementation of minimum health protocols, but a local official said they were "confident" as the municipality still hasn't logged a COVID-19 case. In photos posted by the Basilan provincial government, a number of those present in the program in Tabuan-Lasa, including both children and adults, can be seen without face masks. Attendees also noticeably stood close to each other without regard to the physical distancing rule. Tabuan-Lasa mayor Brenda Junaid told CNN Philippines' News.PH on Monday, however, that they ensured they were able to assess the health conditions of the children, as well as the others who participated. "Confident lang po kami dahil COVID-free po kami, at 'yung mga bata po ay na-assess na po namin na 'yung health nila ay okay naman po," she said. [Translation: We were confident because our municipality is still COVID-free, and we were able to assess and make sure that the children's health is okay.] She added that they implemented other safety practices during the program, such as temperature checks, and encouraged attendees to abide by the minimum health standards. However, making the children wear face masks and keep appropriate distance from each other proved to be difficult, she said. These two measures are among those mandated by the national task force against COVID-19 to minimize the risks of viral transmission, especially in public places. While the town of Tabuan-Lasa has recorded zero cases of COVID-19 to date, Basilan province has 239 confirmed infections, of which 21 remain "active" after 212 recovered and six died. According to the provincial government, the event is an annual activity conducted in conflict-affected areas "to help the children recover from traumatic experiences." 05 Oct 2020, 10:31 AM BT MPW 2020: Aadhaar can be leveraged to vaccinate population en masse, says Kiran Mazumdar ShawAs the whole world is waiting for coronavirus vaccine, technology can play a pivotal and vital role in how the government vaccinates its population, tracks vaccines, monitors doses, and also manages to locate any adverse events, says Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, chairperson & MD, Biocon. Speaking at the Business Today's India's Most Powerful Women 2020, Mazumdar Shaw further states that if India gets a coronavirus vaccine by early next year, there will be at least 4-5 inoculations approved in some form or the other (by 2021).Regional rural banks reported net loss of Rs 2,206 crore in FY20Regional rural banks (RRBs) as a group reported net loss of Rs 2,206 crore in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2020, as against Rs 652-crore net loss in FY19, according to data published by Nabard. During FY 2019-20, 26 RRBs earned profit of Rs 2,203 crore, while 19 incurred losses of Rs 4,409 crore, the data showed.Coronavirus vaccine update: India Inc may be allowed to procure vaccines directlyDeveloping a coronavirus vaccine might just be the tip of the iceberg. From thereon starts logistical complexities. The government is now considering a plan that will allow important businesses, especially large ones, to strike a deal with coronavirus vaccine manufacturers. Most of India's vaccines would be funded by the state and would cost around Rs 50,000 crore. Experts also believe that not everyone would be able to get a shot of the vaccine in 2021.Expect domestic passenger traffic to reach pre-COVID level by year end: Hardeep PuriCivil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri Saturday said domestic passenger traffic could reach the pre COVID-19 level by the end of current year. He said the daily domestic traffic has reached 1.76 lakh passengers from 30,000 passengers when the civil aviation operations resumed on May 25 following a two-month gap due to the pandemic.CNG prices cut in Delhi by Rs 1.53, piped cooking gas by Rs 1.05CNG and piped cooking gas price in the national capital and adjoining cities was on Saturday cut in sync with a reduction in natural gas prices. Indraprastha Gas Ltd in a statement said the CNG price in Delhi will be reduced by Rs 1.53 per kg in Delhi and by Rs 1.70 per kg in Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad.Recovery in auto sales pent-up demand; not sustainable: MG MotorThe recovery seen in auto sales in the past couple of months is not a sustainable one and there is a question mark on how the industry would fare next year as the sector is hugely linked to the economy, according to MG Motor India President and MD Rajeev Chaba.Following the reopening of the economy after lockdown, auto sales have gradually picked up month on month since June and gained further momentum with the onset of festive season in September. A ctor Thomas Jefferson Byrd has died after being shot in Atlanta, Georgia. The 70-year-old died of multiple gunshot wounds in the early hours of Sunday morning, police have confirmed. CNN reports that authorities were called to an address to attend an injured person. When they arrived, Byrd was found unresponsive. The circumstances around his death will be investigated. Oscar-winning director Spike Lee paid tribute to his beloved brother Byrd. The duo worked together numerous times with Byrd appearing in a number of Lees projects, including Chi-raq, He Got Game and Clockers. Tom Is My Guy, Lees tribute continued. May We All Wish Condolences And Blessings To His Family. Rest In Peace Brother Byrd. [sic] He also posted a series of prayer emojis and purple hearts, sharing the message alongside a vintage picture of Byrd. Works by the winners of the Portrait of Humanity 2020 photography competition, 30 images in all, will be shown at the Capa Centre in Budapest from 4 September until 11 October. The show features Eric Demerss Portrait of activist Greta Thunberg speaking before the largest gathering in Canadian history, as well as Marie Halds images celebrating self-acceptance, capturing Norwegian positive body image activist Marte. Mirja Maria Thiels photograph captures an intimate moment between a couple married for sixty years, while Snezhana von Budingens series features Sofie, a nineteen-year-old girl with Down syndrome. 1854 Media, the publisher of the British Journal of Photography, announced the 2020 Portrait of Humanity competition with a view to providing photographers the opportunity to show what it means to be human in this troubled age. A jury of leading photo editors, curators and festival organisers selected the images from thousands of entries. Admission for the exhibtion is free. Opening hours: Monday - Sunday: 9 am 7pm Closed on public holidays Venue: Capa Center 1065 Budapest, Nagymezo u. 8. Photo courtesy of Capa Center / Michael Novotny A Pennsylvania lawmaker wants the state to postpone standardized tests because of COVID-19 for the second year in a row. Read more With schools still in upheaval because of the pandemic, Pennsylvanias education department should pursue a waiver to cancel standardized tests for the second year, a Chester County lawmaker believes. Right now, as we face the tremendous challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and many children are distance learning or doing a hybrid model, the last thing we need to be worried about is standardized testing, said State Rep. John Lawrence (R., Chester County). We need to be focused on childrens education and getting kids back to normalcy in a safe way as soon as possible. Students in Pennsylvania traditional public and charter schools in third through eighth grade take the PSSAs, and high school juniors are given the Keystone Exams. Overall, there are about 1.5 million students enrolled in the commonwealths public schools. The move to cancel the exams, which are typically administered in the spring, has drawn alarm from a group of local and statewide education organizations, whose leaders have written a letter to the General Assembly, saying the loss of the 2020-21 exams risks the loss of critical information that would highlight opportunity gaps and help schools learn and improve upon their virtual or hybrid learning systems. READ MORE: Where are all the kindergartners? In a pandemic, some parents arent enrolling them in public school. The letter was signed by the chiefs of groups including the Commonwealth Foundation, Philadelphia School Partnership, Urban League of Philadelphia, Excellent Schools PA, and Pennsylvania Chamber for Business and Industry. Skipping the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) and Keystone Exams in the spring made sense, the group said. But doing so for a second year is the wrong move. Tests, they said, are needed to give parents and policymakers clear, objective information about how their schools are doing, and to make plain the learning gaps that COVID-19 caused. Schools in Pennsylvania, including those in the Philadelphia School District, have improved generally in recent years, the education groups noted, saying they know that because of the state exams. Unfortunately, when school buildings closed in response to the pandemic and pivoted to online instruction, not only did progress likely stall, but in many cases schools and students may have been pushed off their starting point, the group wrote in its letter to the legislature. Still, many parents have reached out to Lawrence, he said, with worries about what administering the tests might mean for their childrens school year. They really want their students and their teachers to be able to focus on learning rather than preparing for a test that in this environment is not going to accurately reflect the students' ability to learn or the teachers' ability to teach, Lawrence said. Taking a break from testing until theres less uncertainty in classrooms is good public policy, Lawrence said. Philadelphia City Councilmember Isaiah Thomas concurred. Thomas sent a letter in September to the state education department asking for another year of no PSSAs and Keystone Exams. While we must ensure there are data-points to define success and measure competencies, the utility of standardized tests is wrong-minded and not appropriate when you consider the contextual dynamics facing our teachers, administrators and most of all our children, Thomas wrote. READ MORE: What does in-person school look like in the COVID-19 era? Heres a look inside. If an amendment to a bill now making its way through the state legislature passes, the Pennsylvania Department of Education would be directed to apply to the federal government for permission to cancel admission of the PSSAs and Keystone Exams for the 2020-21 school year, if such waivers become available. The legislation has passed the Assembly and awaits consideration by the Senate, where a previous version gained approval. FAQ: Your coronavirus questions, answered. U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has signaled that she does not expect to make waivers available, but the looming presidential election could change the calculus. Democratic candidate Joe Biden has denounced the effects of standardized testing in schools. The Inspector-General (IG) of Police Hillary Mutyambai has sanctioned the arrests of MPs Ndindi Nyoro and Alice Wahome over the deadly chaos that broke out in Muranga on Sunday. According to Mutyambai, the MPs allegedly mobilised the goons that caused mayhem at Kenol town where two people were killed and scores others injured. Police Spokesman Charles Owino said the IG ordered the arrests of the lawmakers for mobilising the violence. Mutyambai also directed that the motor vehicles which were hired to ferry goons be tracked and detained to assist in the investigation. Officers are also tracking down vehicles used to ferry youths who caused violence, Owino said. The IG also warned politicians against engaging in inciteful utterances and acts that might lead to violence. Stern action will be taken against any person engaging in planning and executing unlawful acts, Mutyambai added. DP Ruto has since condemned the violence and accused people within Jubilee of being behind the chaos. Watu waliotuma watu kutuma teagas ni watu wanaofanya kazi chini yetu. The violence was brought here by the people who do not want to see us change the lives of Kenyans, said Ruto. Anne Zaki is assistant professor of preaching and practical theology at the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo. Raised in a Presbyterian home in Cairo, at age 16 she left the Middle East to travel alone to a progressive boarding school on Vancouver Island, Canada. In 2000, she married a Syrian-Canadian pastor, and as a mother of four, she completed her master of divinity degree from Calvin Theological Seminary in 2009. Zaki was always confident she would return to Cairo, and the family relocated there nine months into the chaos of Egypts 2011 revolution. CT spoke with Zaki about the transformative power of Scripture in her own life and in the Egyptian church. How did Scripture shape your early faith? I grew up in an environment that was saturated with Scripture. My father was a pastor. My grandfather was a pastor. After retirement, my grandfather came to live with us. I would wake up every morning to hymns and Scripture being read out loud. His prayers were incredible, almost as if he was echoing Gods words back to him. Eight months before going to Canada, I had an experience of personal encounter with Jesus. I knew I was different. Even my family noticed the change. But in my new school, for the first time I was being exposed to religions other than Christianity and Islam. And it wasnt just exposure. It was a school that was set up to appreciate and promote diversity. I had my first big spiritual crisis. I had to ask myself: Why do I believe what I believe? Is it just because I grew up in it? I sort of made a deal with God. I told him, If you really are who I have known you to be, who they told me that you are, then prove it to me through your Word without the influence of anyone else. So for me that meant no church, no youth groupnot even Christian music. And during that period of six months, Gods Word was sufficient to reveal himself, to prove himself, to be his witness. How did you sense God revealing himself to you through his Word? Can you explain further? Every day, I would read a certain portion of Scripture, meditate on it, and pray it back to God. The things that didnt make sense I would throw back at him, and wed have a debate about them. Usually within a few days, I would get the answer to my questions. God accommodated my young faith beautifully during those six months. Looking back, I believe that my longing to find him was really a gift from him, and my persistence to pursue truth was also his gift. In that time, I developed a hunger and thirstI really could not get enough of the Word. I soaked myself in Scripture, and the more I got, the more I wanted to share his Word with others. Each day, I knew that tomorrow there would be something new. Gods Word became the manna that doesnt stop coming down from heaven. And I knew I didnt need to hoard it for myself. What does it look like to share the manna of Scripture? Within the church, faithful preaching creates a safe place for the Holy Spirit to do this transformation. The pastor prepares the ground on which the manna falls, from which people are nourished and fed. And this manna expands from preacher to audience, and from the audience outward in whatever circles they touch. Being in an Islamic context, we are not allowed to openly evangelize. Our call is unique: to live out the Word of God and display it in our lives. While it is prohibited to openly share, it is okay to answer questions about the faith. For women, as Egypt has become more conservative, we are distinguished in our dress by not wearing a head covering. People can tell we are Christians from the cross around our neck or, for Orthodox women, by the tattoo on their wrist. Were in the spotlight all the time. So sharing the Word is not only in preaching. It is in how we treat the lady who sells vegetables in the market and how we refrain from paying bribes in government offices. Here, it is often not so much proclaiming the Word out loud but living the Word out loud. Article continues below When you live under these constraints, how do you go about sharing the Scriptures with others? When people ask us about our faith or about Jesus or the Bible, we follow Peters command to be ready to give an answer. In our evangelism classes, it is not about the Four Spiritual Laws. The best evangelism method we use is to be filled with Scripture, then to live in such a way that makes people ask about your faith, and to have the Scripture pour out of you so naturally, as if it is your daily speech. Tell me more about what it looks like for you to be filled with Scripture. How are you being informed by and shaped by the Bible on a regular basis? I need my time with God every day. Sometimes it is just me and Scripture. Sometimes I use devotionals. Sometimes I focus on memorizing passages. Christian music helps me a lotWestern or Arabic musicall genres open up my spirit to receive Gods Word. I also learn as I teach. Knowing I have to share both deeply and simply makes me study the Word much more seriously, in order to not get it wrong. I am a better version of myself when I am in the Word daily. I make better decisions, I am more patient with people, and I am less sarcastic and cynical about life in general. On days when I go without that manna, I know I am not a good representative of Christnot to my neighbors, my family, or myself. Why is memorizing Scripture important? Our context requires this spiritual discipline. On a personal level, it is such a comfort that I can recall verses, passages, and whole chapters from my memory and chew on them like the cow chews the cud. It makes Gods presence real to me when I internalize his words. On a national level, we have gone through many times of persecution. In the 1980s and 90s, the fundamentalist Islamic movement was so strong in Upper Egypt, people were afraid their churches would be closed and their Bibles taken away. Their response was to create schedules and divide up Scripture passages, so that a local church would memorize the whole Bible between them. As a child when this was happening, I thought, Come on, I dont really believe this. I couldnt comprehend or understand that degree of Bible memorization. But in 2013, when the Muslim Brotherhood controlled Egypts presidency, I got to see what I couldnt believe as a child. I went to villages, and I saw kids from age 8 to adults of age 80 memorizing Scripture and coming together every week to recite their portions. After living away from Egypt, what led you backespecially during a time of revolution? It was my love for Egypt and my love for the church. I could not stand the thought that the disintegration suffered in Palestine, Lebanon, Iraq, or North Africa would also happen to the church in Egypt. Christian leaders who were once pillars in the church were leaving, making life decisions out of desperation and fear, not out of an attentiveness to Gods Spirit. I would ask them, Do you know this is from God? They said that desperate circumstances demand desperate measures. I understand. But shouldnt it be different for us who bear the name of Christ? Egypt will not move forward without a strong church. Theres no chance. If the church is the hope of the world, then the Egyptian church is the hope of Egyptbut not without strong leaders to replace the ones who left. Thats why I was so grateful to be offered my post at the seminary two years after arriving in Egypt. It was completely unexpected because never before had the seminary hired an Egyptian woman professor to join their full-time faculty. Article continues below So how did these two lovesfor Egypt and for the churchcome together for you? In addition to the seminary, I joined teams of Arabic Christian media, helping bring the Word of God simply and clearly into peoples living rooms. On YouTube, I addressed womens issues, such as self-confidence and the balance of responsibilities between work and home. And on SAT-7, a Christian satellite TV station, I wrote and presented a daily devotional in a program similar to Good Morning America, where I would plant a Scripture seed that could stay with viewers the rest of the day. During the time of the revolution, the church was already starting to step outside of its walls, to engage the general culture. It became more courageous in its outreach. Our pulpits began preaching more boldly about our role as salt and light in engaging our local communities. The Bible Society also did an incredible job relating the story of Nehemiah rebuilding the wall to our effort at rebuilding our nation. One of the revolutions demands was social justice. This is a central theme in the Old Testament, and we had ready applications for the revolutionaries. In Scripture, the Prophets say: I want you to be kind and just to the orphan, to the widow, to the stranger. In some parts of the Middle East, Christians face persecution. In Egypt, there is discrimination and a lack of equal citizenship. What is the Bibles message of freedom and justice for the church? For us, freedom and justice seem like nearly impossible goals. But they are possible, if achieved through forgiveness. We are following in the path of Christ that we see in Scripture. If we pursue freedom and justice directly, as ends in themselves, we may end up being unjust to someone else, or limiting their freedom. But the power of biblical forgiveness says, I will take away from my freedom, and give up some of my rights, so someone else can be free and treated justly. It is this self-sacrifice that empowers forgiveness. Will it work? Has the Cross worked? In South Africa after apartheid, freedom and justice came as the fruit of a process of truth, forgiveness, and reconciliation. As minorities in the Middle East, we must follow the same path. Scripture reminds us that grace begets love and love begets forgiveness. And when Christians initiate Christs way of relating to the other, it transforms lives. This article is part of Why Women Love the Bible, CTs special issue spotlighting womens voices on the topic of Scripture engagement. You can download a free pdf of the issue or order print copies for yourself at MoreCT.com/special-issue. [ This article is also available in espanol. ] Have something to add about this? See something we missed? Share your feedback here. UP: Elections not won on exit polls basis, results will be surprising: Kamal Nath Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad booked for violating Section 144 India oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P New Delhi, Oct 05: Uttar Pradesh police booked Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad, who on Sunday visited the family of the victim in Hathras, for violating Section 144. Along with Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad, around 400 others, who are yet to be identified, have also been booked. On Sunday, Bhim Army's Chandrashekhar Azad led a rally to Boolgarhi village in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras distric. The Bhim Army chief was initially prevented by police from proceeding to Hathras. Chandrashekhar Azad was, however, later allowed to visit the family. Bhim Army chief meets family of Hathras victim, demands 'Y' security Azad's convoy was stopped 20 km ahead of Boolgarhi on the Aligarh-Hathras route. Following this, Azad walked the remaining distance on foot along with his followers. After he was granted permission, Chandrashekhar Azad met the family of the 19-year-old Dalit girl whose death has sparked nationwide outrage. CBI recovers Rs 50 lakh in cash during raids at multiple premises of Congress leader DK Shivakumar JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News After he met the family of the victim, Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad demanded a time-bound inquiry by a retired judge of the Supreme Court into the Hathras incident. Azad told reporters that a CBI inquiry would be time-consuming and delay the process of justice. Chandrashekhar Azad also sought security for the family of the victim. Chandrashekhar Azad said the family members of the victim should be provided with Y category security as they were feeling "insecure". He said an atmosphere of fear and insecurity was being created in the victim's village and that the kin of the woman wanted to leave the place. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 11:38 [IST] VARANASI: A Patna-bound flight made an emergency landing at Varanasi airport on Monday (October 5). According to reports, the SpiceJet flight took off from Ahmedabad with 85 passengers onboard and made an emergency landing due to a technical glitch. The flight was scheduled to land in Patna at 7:45 am on Monday. This is a developing story and more details are awaited. Live TV MP Jim Shannon is urging the PSNI to reopen the case of a newborn baby boy who was brutally murdered 20 years ago. The DUP veteran - who walks past the area where the lifeless, battered body of 'Stewart' was discovered in a shallow grave beside Strangford Lough on October 6, 2000 - told the Belfast Telegraph he would be writing to Chief Constable Simon Byrne about the matter. Mr Shannon said he believes that, with today's sophisticated forensic techniques, it may yet be possible to trace the parents of the infant and thus bring some closure to a case that has baffled detectives for two decades. "I'll never forget that tragic episode," said the Strangford representative. "There was an absolute brutality about the murder of that tiny, defenceless, innocent child. "The wee baby was grabbed by the legs and his head was smashed off the floor. It's unthinkable how anyone in their right mind could do something as wicked and evil as that." Mr Shannon (65), a local councillor and MLA at the time, said the savagery of the crime really hit home as his three young sons were then aged 12, 10 and eight. Expand Close MP Jim Shannon / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp MP Jim Shannon "I was really saddened and, as a father, it resonated all the more with me," he said. "Whatever happened at that time, and whatever the reasons for it were, somebody out there today knows something about it. They may even know who was involved or who the mother was". Mr Shannon said he remembered the child being found in a makeshift grave on the lough shore in 2000. He was finally given a proper burial on October 3, 2001. "He was found buried in a car park opposite the entrance to Mount Stewart. I remember somebody out with their dog noticed something in the ground and contacted the police," he said. "I travel that road when I'm home twice or four times a day. There isn't a day that I don't go by that wee car park and look over and think about the wee child being found." He added: "I wonder how many people who drive down Mount Stewart and don't know that story? Time has passed, but it's still important to get justice for this little boy. The DNA of that child will still be available and therefore his killers could yet be brought to justice. "I'm going to write to the Chief Constable and ask him to reconsider opening this as a cold case." The unidentified infant - named 'Stewart' by RUC detectives - was buried in a small white coffin on a hilltop overlooking the lough. The headstone said simply: "Erected in memory of a baby boy known only to God." Expand Close Shocking: Rev John Murdock said he cant forget the death after two decades / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Shocking: Rev John Murdock said he cant forget the death after two decades Presbyterian Minister Rev John Murdock was one three clergymen who carried out a short ecumenical funeral service in Movilla Cemetery, funded by local businesses and attended by dozens of police officers, council employees and local residents. Rev Murdock, who was joined by Church of lreland and Catholic clerics, recalled asking mourners: "Why did it happen, a new life cut short cruelly and so quickly? People feel saddened and frustrated that nothing is known of the parents of this baby or where he comes from." He also told the Belfast Telegraph there was a palpable sense of shock among the local community. "I've never performed a service like that," he said. "I've been very lucky in my ministry of 24 years, in that I've buried very few young people or children. That's perhaps why this one sticks in my mind." The minister, who was at Greyabbey, not far from where the newborn was found, from 1996 to 2005, also told how his wife Anne was interviewed as part of the investigation. "They were speaking to all women of child-bearing age in and around the Ards peninsula. They must have interviewed hundreds," he said. "I do remember the police making a huge effort to try and discover what had happened." At the time, RUC Detective Sergeant Sharon Little said she was "appealing directly to the mother of this little boy to make herself known to us". "I am also a mother and I am aware that she must feel very confused, frightened and alone, but help is available to her if she would please get in touch." Det Sgt Little added that it was "unbelievable that a woman could have given birth without anyone knowing". Police also enlisted the help of a psychological profiler from the National Crime Agency in London, to no avail. The PSNI have now issued a new appeal for information. Detective Superintendent Jason Murphy said: "The heartbreaking case of 'Baby Stewart' touched the hearts of the police family in a profound way at the time of his death and we, as a service, have never forgotten him. "Whilst the investigative work conducted in 2000 did not enable us to establish the key questions of what had happened and why, we are currently considering what further work might be undertaken today which may enable us to advance the enquiry. "We know that the mother or parents of this little boy must have gone through an enormous trauma, whatever the circumstances, and we are asking them to examine their consciences, to come forward and tell us what happened and give this innocent baby boy his true identity back." The baby was born alive and without defects, and police believe the mother may have been young, perhaps even in her teens, at the time of the birth. The UK's National DNA Database (NDNAD) was only five years old when Baby Stewart's body was found, but is now one of the longest established and biggest databases in the world, and has helped solve many so-called 'cold cases'. Anyone who believes they may have useful information should call 101 or give information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. Although the headstone suggests the tiny victim is "known only to God", there is no doubt that there are a few mortals out there who also know who he was. The reaction is composed of four main components: a set of probes, SplintR ligase, T7 RNA polymerase and a fluorogenic dye. In the presence of target RNA, hybridization, ligation, transcription and aptamer-dye binding reactions occur sequentially in a single reaction tube at a constant temperature. Credit: POSTECH The year 2020 can be summarized simply by one wordCOVID-19as it was the force that froze the entire world. For more than eight months so far, movement between nations has been paralyzed all because there are no means to prevent or treat the virus and the diagnosis takes long. In Korea, there are many confirmed cases among those arriving from abroad but diagnosis does not take place at the airport currently. Overseas visitors can enter the country if they show no symptoms and must visit the screening clinic nearest to their site of self-isolation on their own. Even considering this, when the clinic closes, they have no choice but to visit it the next day. Naturally, there have been concerns of them leaving the isolation facilities. What if there was a way to diagnose and identify the infected patients right at the airport? A joint research team comprised of Professor Jeong Wook Lee and Ph.D. candidate Chang Ha Woo and Professor Gyoo Yeol Jung and Dr. Sungho Jang of the Department of Chemical Engineering at POSTECH have together developed a SENSR (SENsitive Splint-based one-pot isothermal RNA detection) technology that allows anyone to easily and quickly diagnose COVID-19 based on the RNA sequence of the virus. This technology can diagnose infections in just 30 minutes, reducing the stress on one single testing location and avoiding contact with infected patients as much as possible. The biggest benefit is that a diagnostic kit can be developed within weeks even if a new infectious disease appears other than COVID-19. The PCR molecular test currently used for COVID-19 diagnosis has very high accuracy but entails a complex preparation process to extract or refine the virus. It is not suitable for use in small farming or fishing villages, or airport or drive-thru screening clinics as it requires expensive equipment as well as skilled experts. RNA is a nucleic acid that mediates genetic information or is involved in controlling the expression of genes. The POSTECH researchers designed the test kit to produce nucleic acid binding reaction to show fluorescence only when COVID-19 RNA is present. Therefore, the virus can be detected immediately without any preparation process with high sensitivity in a short time. And it is as accurate as the current PCR diagnostic method. Using this technology, the research team found the SARS-CoV-2 virus RNA, the cause of COVID-19, from an actual patient sample in about 30 minutes. In addition, five pathogenic viruses and bacterial RNAs were detected which proved the kit's usability in detecting pathogens other than COVID-19. Another advantage of the SENSR technology is the ease of creating the diagnostic device that can be developed into a simple portable and easy-to-use form. If this method is introduced, it not only allows onsite diagnosis before going to the screening clinic or being hospitalized, but also allows for a more proactive response to COVID-19 by supplementing the current centralized diagnostic system. "This method is a fast and simple diagnostic technology which can accurately analyze the RNA without having to treat a patient's sample," commented Professor Jeong Wook Lee. "We can better prepare for future epidemics as we can design and produce a diagnostic kit for new infectious diseases within a week" Professor Gyoo Yeol Jung added, "The fact that pathogenic RNAs can be detected with high accuracy and sensitivity, and that it can be diagnosed on the spot is drawing attention from academia as well as industry circles." He explained, "We hope to contribute to our response to COVID-19 by enhancing the current testing system. More information: Chang Ha Woo et al, Sensitive fluorescence detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in clinical samples via one-pot isothermal ligation and transcription, Nature Biomedical Engineering (2020). Journal information: Nature Biomedical Engineering Chang Ha Woo et al, Sensitive fluorescence detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in clinical samples via one-pot isothermal ligation and transcription,(2020). DOI: 10.1038/s41551-020-00617-5 Provided by Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) Washington: US President Donald Trump said that he has asked the Department of Homeland Security to very carefully check those entering the country after a US court rejected a request by his administration to reinstate travel ban on citizens of seven Muslim-majority nations. The US President continued to be critical of the judge for passing an order that halted his executive order which banned people from seven countries from entering the United States. I have instructed Homeland Security to check people coming into our country VERY CAREFULLY. The courts are making the job very difficult! Trump tweeted. Just cannot believe a judge would put our country in such peril. If something happens blame him and court system. People pouring in. Bad! Trump said. Earlier in the day, a US federal appeals court rejected a request by his administration to immediately reinstate Trumps travel ban on citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries. The Justice Department had made the request with the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco as part of an appeal against a lower court order halting the travel ban on people from Iraq, Iran, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Libya and Yemen. The court asked that challengers of the ban respond to the appeal, and for the Justice Department to file a counter-response. The Justice Department said it would not elevate the dispute to the Supreme Court before that. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. As Australia faces a once-in-a-century economic crisis, the federal government has taken seriously its vow to respond to the COVID-19 crisis with centrist and non-ideological measures. The federal budget, to be handed down on Tuesday, will reveal the depth and extent of that commitment. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg had little choice but to jettison one of the shibboleths of conservative politics the commitment to balancing the budget, at least in the short-to-medium term. In a speech last week, he said he would not worry about the federal government deficit until unemployment was comfortably below 6 per cent, a benchmark some economists say will not be met for several years. On that basis, Mr Frydenberg is expected to announce a second round of stimulus measures beyond the JobKeeper wage subsidy, which is due to expire in March. As a result, most economists predict a deficit of about 12 per cent of gross domestic product this financial year and a sea of red ink in the next few years, unimaginable only a few months ago. Net debt will rise beyond $1 trillion or about 45 per cent of GDP within two years, about four times higher than when Paul Keating warned Australia was at risk of becoming a banana republic. The Kentucky Harness Association is pleased to announce several exciting introductory benefits to serve its members. Working closely with the team at the newly opened Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel located in Oak Grove, Kentucky, the KHA is able to provide exciting introductory benefits to our members racing in the upcoming fall meet that begins on October 14. Introductory member benefits include: Race sulky accident insurance Free pre-race veterinarian inspections Awards for leading trainer, driver and owner (with KY bonus) Race Sulky Accident Insurance Coverage for members with registered sulkies that are involved in an on-track accident (specific details will be provided prior to meet opening). Free Pre-Race Veterinarian Inspections (2020 Race Season) Under the new Kentucky Horse Racing Commission regulations, all horses are required to undergo a veterinarian examination as a condition of entry. Working in conjunction with the race meet team at Oak Grove, the KHA has been able to secure an arrangement for participating horsepeople with a local veterinarian that will be present at the track. The introductory service rate of $5 has been negotiated for all horsepeople. For 2020, the KHA will pay for all such inspections for its members. Further details can be obtained at the Oak Grove race office (proof of membership required). Awards for leading Trainer, Driver and Owner (with KY bonus) The fall meet leading trainer, driver and owner based on wins (total earnings serving as tie-breaker), will receive the following: $1,000 winning bonus (an additional $500 if KY resident) One free night stay at the Oak Grove Racing and Gaming Hotel (weekday in 2021) $150 gaming voucher $100 Garrison Oak Steakhouse gift card An active membership base is critical to a successful harness racing circuit in Kentucky," said Bob Brady, president of the KHA. "Our members are a priority for the KHA. Our goal to is to promote, support and facilitate growth in the harness industry in Kentucky through our members and industry colleagues. We are working on many other benefits to support the efforts of our members. (KHA) The daughter of former President Ronald Reagan has recalled the terror and "state of shock" in the aftermath of her father being shot in 1981, and how the information about his condition was shared with the public by White House officials. Author Patti Davis, 67, wrote an op-ed for the Washington Post on Sunday about the aftermath of her father's attempted assassination by John Hinckley Jr. and how the nation was informed of Reagan's condition, compared to the current contradictory reports about President Donald Trump's treatment for COVID-19. Ronald And Nancy Reagan (Diana Walker / The LIFE Images Collection via Getty Images) "When youre president, privacy is not an option including, and maybe especially, privacy about your health," Davis wrote. "Thats a lesson my fathers administration understood, and that President Trump and his advisers still need to learn." Watch TODAY All Day! Get the best news, information and inspiration from TODAY, all day long. Reagan was getting into a limousine after leaving a speaking engagement at the Washington Hilton Hotel when he was hit by a bullet fired by Hinckley. The round punctured one of the president's lungs and caused internal bleeding. He spent 13 days in the hospital recovering. Davis, who had a tumultuous relationship with her parents over the years, was 28 when her father was shot. She wrote that she had to rely on news coverage for hours to learn about her father's condition while waiting for a flight from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. "The country was in a state of shock, I was terrified that my father would die, the media was scrambling to put out accurate information," she wrote. "At one point, it was reported that White House press secretary James S. Brady was dead. Within minutes, that was corrected." Ronald Reagan Talking on Telephone (Bettmann Archive) White House official Lyn Nofziger gave two press briefings about Reagan's condition and then had hospital administrator Dennis O'Leary deliver an update to the press after the president came out of surgery. Story continues "This is not a story about perfection," Davis wrote. "OLeary, who didnt have all the information that surgeons had, misspoke about how close the bullet came to my fathers heart and neglected to say that the bullet had torn through a lung. The other mistake was made by the White House advisers in not invoking the 25th Amendment when he went under anesthesia." Davis contrasted that chaotic time with the current updates from the White House about the condition of Trump, who was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Friday after revealing early that morning that he had been diagnosed with COVID-19. Trump was also criticized by medical experts for leaving his hospital room on Sunday to be driven past a group of supporters by Secret Service agents so he could wave to his fans. "The chaos of that day differentiates it from the current situation, when the president has contracted a virus the world has been battling for months," Davis wrote. "The mistakes that were made must be looked at through that lens. But what is important is that White House officials acknowledged and honored the fact that the American people deserved to be informed about what was happening to their president." Davis, who told Yahoo News last year that Reagan would be "horrified" at Trump's America, called for more transparency in the reports about Trump's condition. She wrote that Americans' trust in government is being "eroded" at "the worst possible time." "Instead of accurate and complete information, Americans are receiving only sketchy details and evasive answers. 'Its a common medical practice that you want to convey confidence,' White House communications director Alyssa Farah told Fox News on Sunday. This fundamentally misunderstands the challenge and the role of medical briefings: It is not to reassure either the patient or the American people, it is to provide them with clear and reliable information," Davis wrote. Were inspired: Jordan Bitove becomes Toronto Star publisher and Paul Rivett takes over as chair of Torstar, Oct. 2 It was very encouraging to learn in the announcement of the appointment of Jordan Bitove as publisher of the Star that the company plans to invest in the newsroom and direct more resources to the investigative team. Democracy, now more than ever, needs strong credible investigative reporting, and this commitment is good news indeed. How to reopen the border slowly and safely, Sept. 27 Opening the Canadian border may seem to be a positive step forward, but it would only endanger millions of Canadians. It is too soon to take this risk. From an economics standpoint, opening the border will promote tourism, boosting the economy. However, if tourists are the source of new outbreaks, the country would need to shut down once again, including the border, tanking the economy into new lows. Many small businesses would not survive another shut down. Canadians are still being encouraged to limit their outings, and yet people want to bring in tourists? In the United States, cases continue to increase in almost half the states, now reaching over 7 million cases nationally. If the border were to open, this would surely spread throughout Canada. Now, as things begin to open and we begin to see our cases rise again, the government needs to maintain our border control policies. Researchers in the UArizona School of Sociology used restaurants to explore how the U.S. is impacted by minority populations. Media and academics often equate assimilation with the process of immigrants becoming more similar to U.S.-born populations over time and across generations, says University of Arizona researcher Christina Diaz. "But assimilation is likely a two-way street. And we see this, but there have been no tests done," said Diaz, an assistant professor in the School of Sociology in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. In a new study, Diaz and co-author Peter Ore, a graduate student in sociology, looked for evidence that the U.S. community is impacted by minority populations. They used ethnic restaurants - both national chains and local eateries - as test cases. The study, "Landscapes of Appropriation and Assimilation: The Impact of Immigrant-Origin Populations on U.S. Cuisine," is published in the Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies. A portion of the research was conducted while Diaz was a 2018 Career Enhancement Fellow through the Woodrow Wilson Foundation. The researchers found strong evidence that Asian and Hispanic populations are important contributors to local food culture. Those populations predict the number of Hispanic and Asian local ethnic restaurants - but not chains - in a given county. The size of local Hispanic and Asian populations also is linked to non-ethnic ownership of ethnic restaurants, and the availability of local Asian and Hispanic cuisine is strongly associated with education levels of the white majority population. Focusing on Food Diaz says the study was a unique effort to investigate, on a national level, whether Asians and Hispanics exert cultural influence on local populations. Assimilation is difficult to empirically test, she said. To tackle that problem, Diaz and Ore pooled county-level data from the U.S. census, the American Community Survey, the Economic Research Service, the Voting and Elections Collection from CQ Press, Reference USA and Nielsen marketing data. "This paper was a big introduction to me of the complexities of creating this whole architecture of data from a lot of different sources," Ore said. Diaz and Ore included both immigrants and U.S.-born persons in the ethnic groupings, because, "oftentimes those outside of the ethnic group tend to code ethnic people as foreigners regardless of where they're born, and also because food is an enduring cultural attribute that gets passed down through generations," Diaz said. Diaz added that data analysis revealed the same pattern of findings when the ethnic grouping only included immigrants. Why focus on restaurants to test assimilation? Assimilation scholars argue that cuisine is among the first markers of ethnicity to become absorbed in local communities, Diaz said. "If we do not observe patterns that suggest Asians and Hispanics are associated with local tastes via restaurants, it is unlikely these populations will transform other dimensions of social life," Diaz said. Diaz acknowledges that just because someone enjoys Mexican and Asian food doesn't mean they welcome immigrants. "A greater acceptance of food ways is not going to be reflective of increasingly positive intergroup relations or dynamics," Diaz said. "This is a small initial step to provide spaces for people across different ethnic groups and different racial categories to potentially interact." Models of Assimilation Diaz and Ore tested three competing models of assimilation: relational assimilation, appropriative assimilation, and racial or ethnic threat. With relational assimilation, the demand for ethnic products is linked to the ethnic population; when one increases, the other increases. "This theory suggests ethno-racial hierarchies may potentially weaken with prolonged intergroup exposure," Diaz said. With appropriative assimilation, an increase in ethnic products is unrelated to the growth in the ethnic population, suggesting that ethnic goods are being appropriated by the dominant groups without minority involvement. "This would expand mainstream food preferences and possibly bolster the economic status of majority populations while doing very little to reduce structural disadvantages faced by minority populations," Diaz said. In the third scenario, racial or ethnic threat, ethnic restaurants would be lower in areas with the highest concentration of immigrants. Some research suggests there is a "tipping point" when increased immigration results in "natives shying away from immigrant food or culture because of perceived political threat or competition for employment," Diaz said. Diaz and Ore primarily found evidence for relational assimilation. Counties with proportionally larger numbers of Asians and Hispanics had significantly more Asian and Hispanic restaurants. They ran various tests to ensure that the relationship between ethnic groups and ethnic restaurants was not driven solely by the Hispanic or Asian demand for ethnic cuisine. "We found that restaurant availability is also highest in really diverse areas, so we have reason to believe that there really is something about these intergroup interactions that are fertile for ethnic restaurant demand," Diaz said. Analysis of restaurant ownership resulted in an interesting finding: Those outside of the ethnic community were more likely to own Hispanic or Asian restaurants in densely Hispanic or Asian populated areas. "We interpret this as evidence that ethnic populations can transform tastes, demands and opportunities for those outside of the ethnic community," Diaz said. Might this also be evidence of appropriation? "We are agnostic about whether non-ethnic ownership is necessarily appropriation," Diaz said. "We are interpreting high rate of ownership among non-ethnics as relational assimilation because we see evidence of a heightened relationship in areas with a dense co-ethnic population." The same cannot be said of fast-food ethnic chain restaurant ownership, where non-ethnic ownership was unrelated to the actual size of the ethnic community, suggesting appropriative assimilation. Diaz and Ore did not find evidence of racial or ethnic threat. "We suspect that restaurant spaces may be less likely to invoke hardened protest by majority groups than other markers of ethnicity, such as foreign-language programs in schools or employer preferences for specific skills," Diaz said. Education's Impact Another key finding is that the availability of local Asian and Hispanic restaurants in a community is strongly associated with the share of the majority populations with a college degree. Research has shown that educated populations may be more likely to engage in cultural exchanges with immigrant and minority communities, particularly as consumers of ethnic products and services. "More educated people tend to signal their status by presenting themselves as being eclectic or omnivorous," Ore said. Diaz and Ore also analyzed Nielsen grocery data to obtain a secondary indicator of the impact of ethnic groups on food consumption and found the same pattern. An increase in the ethnic population resulted in an increase in ethnic grocery purchases by the majority population. Diaz emphasizes that the study does not illustrate any decrease in the assimilation of immigrant groups. "We're trying to shift the focus to demonstrate that the fabric of U.S. culture can transform as a result of immigration," Diaz said. "This doesn't mean that immigrants are assimilating any less." ### Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday said his government would pass either a resolution or a Bill in the state assembly to counter the 'dangerous impact' of the three farm laws of the Centre. IMAGE: Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh addresses before a tractor rally, Kheti Bachao Yatra, in protest against the new farm bills 2020, in Punjab's Moga district. Photograph: @capt_amarinder/Twitter Addressing public rallies at Barnala chowk and Bhawanigarh in Sangrur, the chief minister vowed to do whatever it takes to protect the farmers and the state from the 'devastating' effects of the 'black laws'. "We will not step back. We will pass whatever resolution or Bill needed in the assembly," said Singh. He further said his government would also approach the Supreme Court against these new legislations. The CM also lashed out at the Union government, accusing it of 'destroying' the time-tested farmer-arthiya (commission agent) relationship and handing over the agriculture to big corporates like Adanis and Ambanis. "Will you go to Adanis and Ambanis when in need, as you do with the arthiyas at present?" asked the CM. Slamming the Modi-led government, the CM said the Centre had 'backtracked' on every single promise, be it the constitutional promise of the Goods and Services Tax or the doubling of farmers' income. For seven months, Punjab had not got its share of GST, leaving the state struggling to manage amid the COVID-19 crisis, he said. Asserting that the Congressmen, with Rahul Gandhi leading the way, will fight for farmers till their last breath, the chief minister also appealed to the Wayanad MP to repeal the black laws once he becomes the prime minister. Rahul has come to hold the farmers' hands, Amarinder Singh said, terming the new farm laws an 'act of total injustice' with the farming community. The Modi government does not know how agriculture works in Punjab and in the country, he asserted, adding these legislations would pave the way for scrapping of the minimum support price and winding up of the Food Corporation of India, as per the Shanta Kumar committee recommendations. He further warned that these laws would lead to the closure of the mandis for the agricultural crops. Singh said his government cannot let the Union government do that and it will take all steps, including a Vidhan Sabha session to counter the new legislations besides challenging the Centre's laws in the Supreme Court. Addressing a gathering at Samana in Patiala, the CM said the future of the agriculture itself was at stake because of the farm laws, which the government sitting in Delhi had 'forced' on the farmers and the states across the country. The small farmers, constituting 70 per cent of the farming community, would be totally ruined, he claimed. Vowing to shield farming community against any harm 'come what may', the CM said the state and its farmers faced a long-drawn battle and exhorted the farmers to be ready for a long and difficult struggle. Lambasting the Modi government for 'discriminating' Punjab and its farmers, who had always been at the forefront to protect India and its people, Amarinder said even during the COVID pandemic, it was these farmers who ensured that nobody went hungry. On this occasion, All India Congress Committee general secretary in-charge of Punjab affairs Harish Rawat, Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jakhar, former Chief Minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, cabinet ministers Balbir Sidhu, Vijay Inder Singla, Rana Gurmit Sodh, Rajya Sabha MP Deepender Hooda, Punjab Mandi Board Chairman Lal Singh and other leaders were present. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Amarinder Singh took out a tractor rally from Bhawanigarh in Sangrur to Samana in Patiala. President Ram Nath Kovind has given his assent to the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020; the Farmers' (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020 and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020 which were passed by the Parliament last month. Wildfires have destroyed dozens of homes in New Zealand, authorities announced Monday, saying it was a miracle no one was hurt when a wall of orange descended on a remote South Island village. The blaze began in a mountain forest early Sunday morning and, fanned by strong winds, swept through the village of Lake Ohau, forcing residents to flee for their lives. The high winds meant the fire could not yet be contained and the situation may change rapidly with any shift in the wind, Fire and Emergency New Zealand said. It said up to 50 structures were destroyed and conditions remained challenging on Monday, with 11 helicopters and nine fire crews attempting to contain the flames. Waitaki District mayor Gary Kircher said the tiny Lake Ohau community had been devastated. Of the 60 or 70 houses, we believe that the majority have gone, he told Radio New Zealand. The reality is that its a minor miracle no one has been harmed. If it had been anther 15-20 minutes it would have been a very different story. Kircher described how residents awoke to find an inferno bearing down on them. I talked to a gentleman who got up to his dog (barking) in the early hours, opened his door and there was this wall of orange, he said. He was the one that set off the town fire alarm and helped to wake people... theres certainly some scary tales about how close it came to being an absolute disaster with fatalities. Wildfires are relatively common on the South Island at this time of the year but the scale and intensity of the Ohau fire have been unusual. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 18:48:49|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CANBERRA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Australia has recorded its first day with zero COVID-19 deaths since mid-September. As of Monday afternoon, Australia's coronavirus death toll remained at 894. It is the first time that the death toll has not risen since Sept. 15 and only the second time since July 13, at which time there had been 108 deaths from the virus in Australia. The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Australia rose to 27,149 on Monday, and the number of new cases in the last 24 hours is 11, according to the latest figures from Australian Government Department of Health. Victoria, the hardest-hit state by the COVID-19 pandemic in the country, reported nine new cases and New South Wales confirmed one new case in a recently returned traveler in hotel quarantine. Victoria now accounts for about 74.4 percent of Australia's coronavirus cases and 90.1 percent of deaths. As the second wave of infections in Victoria subsides, Michael Gunner, the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, on Monday said that the territory's borders could be opened to travellers from regional Victoria as early as Nov. 2. Gunner, who previously said that borders could remain closed until 2022, said that Melbourne, the capital city of Victoria, was "on the cusp" of controlling the pandemic. "The average number of cases diagnosed in the last 14 days for metropolitan Melbourne is 11.6 and regional Victoria is 0.3," said a statement from the Department of Health and Human Services in Victoria on Monday. Enditem A crowd of pro-Armenians staged a protest outside the CNN building in Los Angeles on October 4, calling for more media coverage of the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict, reports said. This footage, posted to Twitter, shows protesters blocking Sunset Boulevard outside the networks Los Angeles bureau. CBS Los Angeles reported it was the second day of protests in Los Angeles County organized by Armenian human rights groups. On October 3, protesters blocked both sides of the 101 Freeway, bringing traffic to a standstill. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said the city is home to the largest Armenian diaspora. I urge our leaders in Washington to conduct the sustained and rigorous diplomacy necessary to bring peace to the Artsakh region, he said. Conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia has reignited due to a dispute over the Nagorno-Karabakh region an area in Azerbaijan which is governed by ethnic Armenians. Credit: @emiliesiraki via Storyful Telizhenko declined repeated requests to provide proof of his entry or his stay in the United States. He said that for security reasons he is shielding information about his movements. Telizhenko worked for the Ukrainian prosecutor generals office in Kyiv before moving to Washington in 2015 and getting a job at the Ukraine embassy. He left in mid-2016 and went to work for a year for Blue Star Strategies, a Democrat-run lobbying firm. That firm represented Burisma, a Ukrainian gas company that placed Bidens son Hunter on its board of directors and is at the center of unfounded allegations by Giuliani against Joe Biden. A week after his own positive test for COVID-19, Gov. Ralph Northam says he feels fine and has no symptoms. On Friday the governor was among many Virginia state officials wishing President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump well after hearing they had tested positive, and urging Virginians to take the coronavirus seriously. Northam, Virginia first lady Pam Northam, and four legislators are among the thousands of Virginians who have tested positive for COVID-19 this year. In May, Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., announced that he and his wife, former first lady Anne Holton, had tested positive for antibodies to the coronavirus. Northam tweeted a photo of himself speaking on his cellphone and noted that he has been working with legislators to finalize the state's amended budget. The Senate formally backed its own spending plan on Friday, setting up negotiations with the House. Northam said in the tweet: "A week after our positive test results, I have no symptoms and feel fine @FirstLadyVA has mild symptoms, but is feeling better each day. We are grateful for your ongoing prayers and support. Virginians, let's stay vigilant and follow the guidelines to keep our communities safe." Trump held a rally last Friday night at Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport, hours after Northam announced that he and his wife had tested positive for COVID-19 likely due to exposure to a sick staffer at the Executive Mansion. Trump does not appear to have come into close contact with Virginia figures who attended the rally, including Del. Nick Freitas, R-Culpeper, who is challenging Rep. Abigail Spanberger, D-7th. Freitas addressed the crowd before the president arrived and never came within 50 feet of Trump, according to his campaign. The Virginia Department of Health reported Friday that the statewide total for COVID-19 cases is 149,687, an increase of 966 from the 148,721 reported Thursday. There are 3,250 COVID-19 deaths in Virginia 3,037 confirmed and 213 probable. Thats up 22 from the 3,228 reported Thursday. Also Friday, the health department appealed to college students across Virginia for help stopping community spread on campuses. It urged students: "If you are sick with COVID-19, please stay home and reach out to those you have had close contact with. Let them know you are sick." Kaine said in a statement Friday: I wish the President and First Lady a speedy recovery. Having had COVID-19, let me stress: all need to take this seriously. Please follow CDC guidelines of mask wearing, hand washing, and social distancing. Northam said in a tweet earlier Friday: "Pam and I are sending our best wishes to the President and First Lady, and to the more than 46,000 Americans and 450 Virginians also diagnosed with #COVID19 yesterday. This virus is very real and very serious. Lets continue to take care of each other by doing the right things." Former Speaker of the House Kirk Cox, R-Colonial Heights, who is preparing a run for governor, tweeted: "Both the Governor and the President recently tested positive for COVID-19. Julie and I, of course, offer our prayers to both families and wish them nothing but a speedy recovery." Rep. Donald McEachin, D-4th tweeted: "Please join me in praying that @POTUS and @FLOTUS recover quickly from the coronavirus. And I pray that all of us allow this to be a reminder that none of us are immune to this virus. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing." On Twitter Rep. Elaine Luria, D-2nd, called out people who joked about the president's test result. "I have seen some people making light (or worse!) of the Presidents diagnosis. Stop. The health of the President is a National Security issue and all Americans should wish for a speedy recovery." Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax tweeted: "Our thoughts and best wishes to the President and First Lady for a speedy recovery. As the facts show, #COVID19 is a very serious virus that can reach anyone and has already impacted us all. Lets keep wearing masks and taking other steps to defeat this pandemic together." Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., tweeted: "Wishing the President and the First Lady a speedy recovery from COVID-19. This is another reminder to us all to take this virus seriously." GOP U.S. Senate nominee Daniel Gade tweeted: "Our familys thoughts and prayers are with the President and First Lady and all other Americans afflicted with this terrible disease." acain@timesdispatch.com (804) 649-6645 Twitter: @AndrewCainRTD Mel Leonor contributed to this report. Tehran: Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said on Tuesday that he was grateful to US President Donald Trump for revealing the real face of America. We are thankful to this gentleman... he showed the real face of America, Khamenei said in a speech to military officers in Tehran. What we have said for more than 30 yearsthat there is political, economic, moral and social corruption in the ruling system of the USthis gentleman came and brought it out into the open in the election and after the election. He referred to the case of a young Iranian boy who was pictured in handcuffs at a US airport following Trumps ban on visas for seven Muslim-majority countries, including Iran. By what he doeshandcuffing a five-year-old child he shows the true meaning of American human rights, Khamenei said. He also responded to Trumps tweet of February 3, when the US president said: Iran is playing with firethey dont appreciate how kind President Obama was to them.. Khamenei ridiculed the idea of being grateful to former president Barack Obama, saying he was the one who placed paralysing sanctions on Iran and helped create the Islamic State group through his destabilising actions in Iraq and Syria. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden offered his continued prayers for the recovery of Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump from Covid-19, but admonished the president to listen to the scientists and support masks to help stem the tide of coronavirus in the US. Let me also say at the top, my prayers continue to be with the president and the first Lady for their health and safety. I, like so many American families who are dealing with Covid-19, was glad to see the president speaking and recording videos over the weekend, Mr Biden said. The former Democratic vice president wore a mask while he spoke on Monday, a departure from his previous protocol of wearing a mask up to the microphone at campaign events, but taking it off during his speeches. Now that he's busy tweeting campaign messages, I would ask him to do this: listen to the scientists. Support [wearing] masks. Support mandates nationwide. Require masks in every federal building facility and [in] interstate travel. Urge every governor to do the same. We know it saves lives, Mr Biden said. Mr Biden, speaking in Miami's Little Havana, noted that Covid-19 has acutely afflicted US latinos: 37 per cent of Americans who have died from the virus are Hispanic, far outpacing their proportion of the US population, he said. This pandemic has just helped us rip off the blinders in this country, and how inequitable so many things are, he said. As cases of coronavirus at the White House continue to mount, Mr Trump announced via Twitter he would leave Walter Reed Medical Centre at 6.30pm on Monday. Instead of urging Americans to take more precautions such as wearing masks, as some suspected he might do, the president said he was feeling really good and once again played down the threat of the disease that has killed more than 200,000 Americans over the course of eight months. Dont be afraid of Covid. Dont let it dominate your life. We have developed, under the Trump Administration, some really great drugs & knowledge. I feel better than I did 20 years ago! the president wrote on his Twitter account on Monday. Mr Trumps military physician said he is returning to the White House even though he "may not entirely be out of the woods yet" and will still receive powerful drugs once back at the executive mansion. Dr Sean Conley again sidestepped a number of questions during what has become a daily update briefing, including when the president had his last positive coronavirus test and how the medical team could ensure Mr Trump would be safe quarantining at the White House. Ms Trump, the First Lady, will also be quarantining at the White House. The Navy doctor did not rule out that Mr Trump could soon return to the campaign trail: About travel, well see. Mr Trump was forced to cancel a series of events in the key swing states of Florida and Wisconsin over the weekend, and in Arizona on Monday and Tuesday. That means the next presidential debate, scheduled for 15 October, is still on the table for both candidates. Mr Biden has said he would debate Mr Trump later this month, even though the president has coronavirus, if scientists say its safe. Just days before he and several top White House advisers tested positive for Covid-19 including senior counsel Hope Hicks, debate prep adviser Chris Christie, and, most recently, White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany Mr Trump had been chiding Mr Biden, to his face, about wearing masks. I put a mask on when I think I need it, Mr Trump said at the first presidential debate on Tuesday. I don't wear masks like him, he said, nodding to Mr Biden. Every time you see him he's got a mask. He could be speaking 200 feet away, and he shows up with biggest mask I've ever seen, he said. At the event in Miami on Monday, Mr Biden urged Floridians to register to vote. Monday is the deadline to register in the Sunshine State for the 2020 elections. He also blasted Mr Trumps policy on Cuba, saying the country just 90 miles south was no closer to freedom and democracy than it was four years ago. Mr Biden has barely led Mr Trump in most polls in Florida over the course of the summer, but the race has tightened to within an average of 2 percentage points over the last two weeks, well within most polls margins of error, according to the RealClearPolitics aggregation of reputable public surveys. A residential building burns after night of shelling during a military conflict in self-proclaimed Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh, Stepanakert, Azerbaijan, on Oct. 4, 2020. (Areg Balayan/ArmGov PAN Photo via AP) Azerbaijans Second-Largest City Hit in Fighting With Armenia BAKU, AzerbaijanThe fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces continued on Oct. 4 over the separatist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, with Azerbaijans second-largest city coming under attack and Azerbaijan claiming to have seized a town and several villages. The clashes erupted on Sept. 27 and have killed dozens, marking the biggest escalation in the decades-old conflict over the region, which lies within Azerbaijan but is controlled by local ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia. Azerbaijani President Ilkham Aliyev tweeted on Oct. 4 that the countrys troops liberated from occupation the city of Jabrayil and several surrounding villages. Nagorno-Karabakhs officials rejected the claim as untrue, saying the territorys army is controlling the situation in all directions. Azerbaijani officials said earlier on Oct. 4 that Armenian forces attacked Ganja, the countrys second-largest city. Hikmet Hajiyev, Aliyevs aide to the Azerbaijani president, tweeted a video depicting damaged buildings and called it the result of Armenias massive missile attacks against dense residential areas in Ganja. It wasnt immediately possible to verify the authenticity of the video. Hajiyev said in another tweet that attacks on Ganja and other areas in Azerbaijan were launched from territory of Armenia. Armenias Defense Ministry said that no fire of any kind is being opened from the territory of Armenia in Azerbaijans direction. But Nagorno-Karabakhs leader, Arayik Harutyunyan, said on Facebook that he ordered rocket attacks to neutralize military objects in Ganja, but later told his forces to stop firing to avoid civilian casualties. Azerbaijani officials denied that any military objects had been hit, but said the attack caused damage to civilian infrastructure. One civilian has been killed, and 32 others sustained injuries, authorities said. Ganja, home to several hundred thousand residents, is located roughly 100 kilometers (about 60 miles) north of Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakhs capital. Opening fire on the territory of Azerbaijan from the territory of Armenia is clearly provocative and expands the zone of hostilities, Azerbaijani Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov said in a statement on Oct. 4. As the fighting resumed on the morning of Oct. 4, Armenian officials accused Azerbaijan of carrying out strikes on Stepanakert and targeting the civilian population there. Nagorno-Karabakhs leader Harutyunyan said that in response, his forces would target military facilities permanently located in major cities of Azerbaijan. In a statement issued later on Oct. 4, Azerbaijans Defense Ministry rejected accusations of targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. Nagorno-Karabakh officials have said nearly 200 servicemen on their side have died in the clashes so far. Azerbaijani authorities havent given details on their military casualties but said 24 civilians were killed and 111 others were wounded. Nagorno-Karabakh was a designated autonomous region within Azerbaijan during the Soviet era. It claimed independence from Azerbaijan in 1991, about three months before the Soviet Unions collapse. A full-scale war that broke out in 1992 killed an estimated 30,000 people. By the time the war ended in 1994, Armenian forces not only held Nagorno-Karabakh itself but substantial areas outside the territorys formal borders, including Jabrayil, the town Azerbaijan claimed to have taken on Oct. 4. The claim sparked hope among Azerbaijanis who fled Jabrayil in the 1990s and have since wanted to return to their hometown. The news about the liberation of Jabrayil is the happiest and the most desired news for me and my family, Zulfiya Amiraslanova, who said she and her family were forced to leave Jabrayil in 1993 and are now living in the capital Baku, told The Associated Press. We have a comfortable life here, but me and my entire family, (my) relatives dream about returning to our hometown, the 40-year-old Amiraslanova said. Last weeks fighting has prompted calls for a cease-fire from around the world. On Oct. 1, leaders of Russia, France, and the United Statesco-chairs of the so-called Minsk Group, which was set up by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in 1992 to resolve the conflictissued a joint statement calling for an immediate cease-fire and resuming substantive negotiations under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs. Azerbaijani President Aliyev said that Armenias withdrawal from Nagorno-Karabakh is the sole condition to end the fighting. Armenian officials allege that Turkey is involved in the conflict and is sending fighters from Syria to the region. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said earlier this week that a cease-fire can be established only if Turkey is removed from the South Caucasus. Ankara has denied sending arms or foreign fighters, while publicly siding with Azerbaijan in the dispute. On Oct. 4, Turkeys Foreign Ministry condemned the attack on Ganja, saying it was proof of Armenias disregard for the law. Ankara accused Armenia of attacking civilian residential areas and claimed that Armenia could commit crimes against humanity. Armenia is the biggest barrier to peace and stability in the region, the ministry said. In Istanbul, hundreds of Azeri Turks gathered to support Azerbaijan on Oct. 4, waving Turkish and Azerbaijani flags and singing their national anthems. By Aida Sultanova But Vidal said that once she is able to connect with families and discuss their needs, they are often willing to fill out the forms. Vidal found it can come down to issues as simple as funding for new roads because I know most of them complain about the potholes, she said. Prince Harry split from the Royal Family 'without thinking it through' because he and brother William grew up with 'little understanding of what a happy family looks like' after Princess Diana was left traumatised by her parents' ugly divorce which contributed to the breakdown of her own marriage, a royal expert has claimed. The late princess grew up feeling 'unloved' after her mother left when she was six and this was a significant factor in her split from Prince Charles, according to Penny Jumor. She also suggested that the tensions between brothers William, 38, and Harry, 36, were brewing before Meghan Markle came onto the scene - and that the Duke of Sussex quit The Firm and moved to the US 'without discussing it' to make his wife happy. Writing in the Mirror, the biographer observed that, like her late mother-in-law, Meghan, 39, has no firm family foundations and is 'more complicated than she looks'. Princes William and Harry grew up with 'little understanding of what a happy family looks like' as a result of their mother Princess Diana being traumatised by her parents' ugly divorce, a royal expert has claimed 'I think there is an element of history repeating itself,' she said, addressing what pushed Harry and Meghan to turn their backs the Royal Family in March and make a new life in the US. Unlike Kate Middleton, who has a functioning family to support her, Ms Junor told how Meghan came from a broken home. with her mother the only person she appears to remain close to. But with Doria being thousands of miles away when Meghan became unhappy, Ms Junor claimed 'impulsive' Harry did what he thought would make it better 'without thinking it through or discussing it with the family'. She suggested Diana growing up without a strong family unit contributed to his decision, because he too came from a broken home. The late princess (pictured in November 1987) grew up feeling 'unloved' after her mother left when she was six and this was a significant factor in the break-up of her marriage to Prince Charles, according to Penny Junor Ms Junor told how, at the age of 20, Diana had seemed like the perfect wife for the Prince of Wales, thanks to her aristocratic background, her father having worked for the Queen and her being comfortable around royalty. 'What Charles didn't know was that Diana had been badly traumatised by her parents' ugly divorce. Her mother had left home when she was six and, to her mother's great distress, custody of Diana and her siblings granted to their father,' Ms Junor said. 'Diana grew up feeling unloved. Those terrible feelings blighted the rest of her life and were a significant factor in the break-up of the marriage. William and Harry, therefore, grew up with little understanding of what a happy family looks like.' After years of being unlucky in love, Ms Junor told how Harry had been 'swept off his feet' by former actress Meghan, and began talking about marriage within a matter of months - concerning his older brother and close friends. After years of being unlucky in love, Ms Junor told how Harry had been 'swept off his feet' by former actress Meghan, and began talking about marriage within a matter of months - concerning his older brother and close friends. Pictured: Harry and Meghan last week With the pair already 'stepping on each other's toes' in their charity work, the royal told how William questioning whether it was all happening too quickly led Harry to assume it was because he didn't like or approve of his new love interest. 'It was a reasonable question and one that a loving brother was right to ask. Their parents had rushed into their disastrous marriage within a year of meeting and scarcely knew one another when walking up the aisle,' Ms Junor pointed out. 'But Harry, head over heels in love, and ever impulsive, wasnt thinking rationally. He took his brother's intentions amiss.' Yesterday it emerged Prince William asked his uncle Earl Spencer to step in and stop his brother rushing into marriage to Meghan Markle. The revelations were made in the explosive new book Battle of Brothers, by royal historian Robert Lacey. With Doria being thousands of miles away when Meghan became unhappy, Ms Junor claimed 'impulsive' Harry did what he thought would make it better 'without thinking it through or discussing it with the family'. Pictured: the Sussexes during one of their final engagements in London in March While Harry 'didn't blame his uncle' and understood why Diana's brother should want to help, he was reportedly 'furious' with his elder brother for dragging other family members into the row. 'The fraternal fissure became established,' Mr Lacey wrote. 'There would be patch-ups and reconciliations, especially when a public show of unity was required. 'But that anger and mistrust - that distance - has lasted to the present day.' A local woman says she may have seen the distress flares fired by a sailor the night he vanished on Lake Erie. But when she reported the incident to the Canadian Coast Guard, she says she wasnt taken seriously. Reginald Fisher, of Dutton, Ontario, went missing Sept. 17 after he didnt return from his sailing trip. Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) recovered his abandoned sailboat the next day but saw no sign of the 77-year-old. Rosemary Mitton, who owns a cottage on the north shore of Lake Erie not far from Rondeau Provincial Park, said she might have seen Fishers flares that night. I didnt take note of the time, I didnt expect it to be any big deal, said Mitton. And when I went down, I saw the end of a flare, and it was lighting up the water -- significantly reflecting on the water. The 66-year-old woman quickly went back into the house to find the 1-800 number for the Canadian Coast Guard to report what she saw. I spoke to a French Canadian man, and I told him we were on the north shore of Lake Erie, we were at Rondeau and that I was seeing a flare on the lake. It was West of Clearville, but it was east of Rondeau. It was well within the horizon, and the lake was flat. According to Trevor Reid, Senior Public Affairs officer for the Canadian Armed Forces, if a member of the public calls the marine search and rescue telephone line (the 1-800 number called by Mitton), the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre receives the call. The centre in Trenton, Ontario, which received the call from Mitton, has received approximately 3,000 calls for Joint Rescue Coordination Center this year, according to Reid. All calls receive the full attention of both RCAF and CCG staff at JRCC, and are taken very seriously, as the safety of mariners in distress is our main priority, said Reid. All staff at JRCC are highly trained professionals in both emergency response and search and rescue situations. The JRCC coordinates marine search and rescue and is staffed with both the Coast Guard and Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) personnel. Mitton said the man on the phone asked her what colour the flare was. Mitton began to explain the colour of the flare. She described it as the colour of fire, an orangey-red with a tint of gold. He said, Oh no, theres nobody out there. Thats our flares, said Mitton. He was so convinced that it was his own. As Mitton recalls, she was informed there was a boat taking on water at Port Burwell. She was also informed of flares being dropped at Port Burwell. I thought to myself, thats a long ways away for us to see it, but the water can play tricks, said Mitton. So I said the flares are going up. He told me they were dropping flares at Port Burwell. Mitton consoled herself and went to bed. As she recalls, that night, the wind changed to the northeast. It was a very, very rough lake -- wild. I thought if theres anybody out there, theyre not going to make it now, said Mitton. I think what it was was a sad coincidence that we had a person in distress sending up flares, and they had somebody in Port Burwell that they were dropping to, Mitton said. Mitton and her husband Craig have lived there for 46 years. She knew Bort Burwell was 80 miles away and did not think it could be seen. According to Reid, the flares dropped as part of the Port Burwell rescue are known as parachute flares. They are dropped from around 5,000 feet up in the air. Depending on the settings, they can last three to five minutes. Depending on the atmospheric conditions, weather and whatnot, they can be seen for dozens, if not hundreds of kilometres, depending on what factors are at play, said Reid. Mitton said she kept insisting she knew what she saw. However, she felt she was not taken seriously. We cant see Port Burwell from here. Were in a little Cove down here. I had my charts up on my computer. I told him that there was an Algoma freighter and a dark freighter about the shipping channel. But there was nothing else on our screen, said Mitton. According to Reid, a review of the incident on the night of Sept. 17, 2020 including a review of the telephone transcripts, confirms all procedures were followed correctly. It also confirms all routine questions, and then some, were asked about the situation in order to determine what was being witnessed. Based on all answers to the questions, the centre was able to corroborate the description of events to the Port Burwell rescue that was occurring, said Reid. More than a week after Fishers death, Mitton cant help but wonder what more she could have done to help. She recalls many instances throughout the 46 years she has lived near the water where she was able to help people. We know the water. We have an aluminum boat on the shore, which we have launched many times to bring people in who went out too far on an inner tube or, they were inexperienced sailors, said Mitton. She doesnt have a lighthouse, theres no Harbour Master, and it was too dark to go out in the aluminum boat as she doesnt have searchlights. But this time around, despite her attempts, and numerous calls from neighbours, a life was taken by Lake Erie. If the Coast Guard doesnt believe us, and the 911 calls that were made, and they dont believe us, then who do we call? Who would believe us? questioned Mitton. Time is of the essence. Alfred Kwabena Bediako Amgba, a painter who allegedly assaulted a man with clutches in order to snatch his mobile phone, has been put before an Accra Circuit Court charged with causing harm. The accused and the victim had both visited the same drinking bar at Nungua and when leaving, Amgba attacked him. The victim, whose name was given as "Old soldier," is currently in coma at the Police Hospital in Accra. Amgba has pleaded guilty with explanation. The court, presided over by Ms Evelyn Asamoah, however, did not hear his explanation and remanded him into Police custody due to the condition of the victim. Accused is expected to reappear on October 14. Prosecuting, Chief Inspector Emmanuel Haligah said Ebenezer Donkor, the complainant, is a worker at a washing bay at Spintex and resides at Nungua Ravico. Chief Inspector Haligah said the accused resided at Nungua C5 while Old Soldier resided at Nungua Old barrier. Prosecution said the victim always visited a drinking bar at Nungua Ravico and on September 27, this year, at about 0100 hours the victim was at the bar and got drunk. Prosecution said Amgba was also at the drinking bar that night and in an attempt to snatch the victim's phone, he attacked him. The accused collected the victim's clutches and hit him on the head and right jaw and as he shouted for help, an indomie seller, nearby, rushed to the scene and saw old Soldier lying in a pool of blood, prosecution said. The accused attempted to board a car to escape the scene but was apprehended in the process. He was escorted to the Police Station and during a search on him four ID cards, an ear piece and a jack knife were found. Prosecution said the accused denied ownership of the items but the complainant identified the victim's picture on one of the ID cards. The victim is still on admission at the Police Hospital, unconscious, prosecution said. Source: GNA 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 D. James Kennedy Ministries Targets 'Billionaire Radical' George Soros NEWS PROVIDED BY D. James Kennedy Ministries Oct. 5, 2020 FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Oct. 5, 2020 /Christian Newswire/ -- D. James Kennedy Ministries focuses on radical philanthropist and atheist George Soros, in a three-week investigative series on its flagship nationwide program, "Truths That Transform" (DJKM.org). With features on Soros on September 27 and October 11, and a compelling, program-length documentary, "Billionaire Radical: George Soros and the Scheme to Remake America," that aired October 4, the Christian media outreach is presenting one of the most untold stories in America. To watch the documentary, "Billionaire Radical," visit www.djameskennedy.org/truths-that-transform. "George Soros's lavish funding for Left-wing causes is an almost verboten topic in mainstream news, but it's ludicrous to choke off critical coverage of a hyper-liberal ideologue like Soros who gives away some $1 billion annually to thousands of grantees," said Dr. Frank Wright, President and CEO of D. James Kennedy Ministries. "That windfall," Wright added, "is not spent on museums and parks, but to undermine and destroy America. Soros is spending millions to elect soft-on-crime prosecutors, as well as to promote abortion, LGBT activism, open borders, euthanasia, legalization of prostitution and drugs, rewrite the Constitution, gun control, defunding police, climate alarmism, erosion of U.S. support for Israel, and more." "That's the story America needs to know," Wright said. "Soros is no bit player but someone who wants, in his words, to be 'the conscience of the world' and 'bend the arc of history.' He's investing billions to make that happen in the U.S. and around the world. Why shouldn't that story get out?" Along with the new documentary, "Billionaire Radical," D. James Kennedy Ministries has also produced a unique, over-sized, full-color chart, which comes with an explanatory 32-page guide. The chart, "Follow the Money: How George Soros & Company Undermine Your Freedom," exposes the architecture of the Left--the well-heeled foundations that make the grants, activist groups that do the work (including Catholic, Protestant, and evangelicals organizations), and politicized media who amplify the message. A third resource, the booklet, "George Soros Exposed: Spending Billions to Radically Transform America," profiles Soros and gives readers a detailed look at his grandiose and self-described "messianic" ambitions, and the far-reaching impact of his money. For details, visit DJKM.org. "These one-of-a-kind resources will introduce people across America to one of the most dangerously influential individuals in our nation today," said Wright. "It's time the American public knew the truth about this radical billionaire and social engineer who is using his vast wealth in an audacious bid to fundamentally transform America and the world." To request an interview with Dr. Frank Wright, contact John Aman, Director of Communications, at j.aman@DJKM.org. D. James Kennedy Ministries is a media ministry whose television programs, Truths That Transform and The Coral Ridge Hour, air nationwide. It actively communicates the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the supremacy of His Lordship, and a Biblically informed view of the world. SOURCE D. James Kennedy Ministries CONTACT: John Aman, j.aman@DJKM.org Related Links www.djameskennedy.org/truths-that-transform DJKM.org The Kinahan cartel was paying two Spanish police officers 5,000 a month at the time of the Operation Shovel investigation. A multinational operation, it saw around 30 cartel associates arrested in Spain, Ireland and the UK in 2010. The two officers were on the mob's payroll to keep them informed of any investigations into their activities on the Costa del Sol. They were met by a senior cartel lieutenant every four weeks in one of the many obstructions to the high-profile Spanish investigation into their activities. Failures Shovel was hailed by Spanish police as the "end of the Irish Mafia'", but 10 years after the massive clampdown, Christy Kinahan and his sons Daniel and Christopher Jr are still free. Expand Close His father Christy Dapper Don Kinahan / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp His father Christy Dapper Don Kinahan It emerged last week that the Spanish authorities have levelled a charge against Christy Snr for passport fraud and a weapons charge on CAB target Ross Browning. State prosecutors dropped the case against a string of other suspects, including Daniel and Christopher Jr, after failing to build a case over 10 years. At the weekend, the Sunday World revealed the catalogue of failures by Spanish authorities that gave the Kinahan gang free rein to continue to expand its drugs empire. The mob was always one step ahead of the Spanish police and knew cops had them under surveillance and were moving in. Tip-offs provided by paid informants allowed them to tidy up their affairs and leave behind a trail of documents. They knew these would not only be found in the raids but would also tie up investigators for years and come to nothing. They included details of a company selling land in Brazil, where it was claimed the Kinahan gang was planning to build a holiday resort near the coastal city of Joao Pessoa in the north-east of the country. Huge resources were pumped into untangling the financial web of Greenland Securities. In the end, investigators discovered the land was barren and the mainly elderly investors had been left in a legal tangle with Brazilian authorities to try to claim ownership of the plots. After two years of surveillance, Spanish police led the charge against the mob in May 2010. The busts had involved 750 police officers across Ireland, the UK and Spain, as well as follow-up raids in Belgium, Cyprus, Dubai, South Africa and Brazil. They resulted in 78 searches, 34 arrests and the seizure of vehicles and cash. Dragged Europol, the EU police agency at the time, said Christy Kinahan's network was involved in financial aff-airs in South America, Africa and the Far East. Thirty-one companies linked to the Kinahan gang were identified. Daniel and Christopher Jr were publicly dragged before the courts along with long-time associate John 'The Colonel' Cunningham. Mob lieutenants Gary Hutch and Freddie Thompson faced extradition proceedings, while armed robber Kevin Lynch and others were bailed in Spain. Accountants, solicitors and associates of 'Dapper Don' Christy were also named in the probe. The arrests were filmed by the Guardia Civil and shown by the world's media, but it was later discovered the gang had been tipped-off. The Kinahans were locked up but were later granted bail by a Spanish magistrate. In its early stages, Operation Shovel promised it would destroy the "Irish mafia" and concentrated on allegations of drugs and weapons trafficking. By 2014, a magistrate dropped those charges and decided to focus on money laundering and membership of a criminal gang. Six years on, those charges were also dropped. The charges last week were welcomed as "more than was expected" out of the doomed investigation, which fell further down the Spanish police's priority list the more difficult it became. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, pictured in July 2020, has agreed to a rollback of the city's plan for furloughing workers, which was set to begin next week. (Dania Maxwell/Los Angeles Times) Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and 10 of the city's public employee unions have struck another deal to delay the city's furlough program, leaving workers with just one unpaid day off before the end of the year, according to a memo issued last week. The City Council approved a plan last month to force more than 15,000 city workers to take one unpaid day off every two weeks effectively a 10% pay cut as part of a larger effort to balance the budget. But last week, Garcetti and the city's bargaining committee changed course, signing off on an alternative cost-cutting strategy that would eliminate all but one unpaid day off until at least January. Under the new proposal, a larger group of civilian workers would take a day off without pay on Nov. 3, which is election day, followed by a second unpaid day in April. Civilian employee unions also agreed to delay of a planned payment of unused sick time, which is normally given to workers in January. In exchange, thousands of workers would receive a new floating holiday for the fiscal year that ends on June 30, according to the proposal. Garcetti aides said the proposal, which is aimed at saving $21.4 million and still needs council approval, will give them more time to determine whether Congress will provide new financial help to cities reeling financially in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. By January, city officials also will know whether the city's tax revenues continue to be weak, they said. The deal enables us to keep city services and programs intact until we have a clearer picture of how exactly the pandemic is impacting revenues, and what additional assistance we might get from Washington, said Garcetti spokesman Alex Comisar. City Administrative Officer Rich Llewellyn, the city's top budget official, expressed some optimism about the prospects of more federal aid, in an email to council offices last week outlining the union deal. "On the hopeful front, Speaker Pelosi says to stand by for a further bail out. So I am STANDING BY!" he wrote. Story continues Still, Jack Humphreville, co-chairman of the Neighborhood Council Budget Advocates, called the city's latest deal "fiscally irresponsible," saying it will do little to address a shortfall ranging from $200 million to $400 million. Requiring only two unpaid days off, while also giving workers a new holiday, "just doesn't go anywhere near eliminating the deficit for this fiscal year, to say nothing of the next fiscal year," said Humphreville, whose group watches over city spending. Neither Garcetti nor union leaders would characterize the two unpaid days as furloughs, describing them simply as days off without pay. Mike Long, a spokesman for Service Employees International Union Local 721, drew a distinction between furloughs demanded by management and unpaid days off volunteered by workers. Furloughs imposed by management are not permitted under SEIU Local 721's contract with the city, Long said. "We understand that the city is in a financial bind due to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, so we have engaged in good faith efforts to help the city save money," he said in an email. "As part of those efforts we agreed to take two unpaid days off." The agreement is the only latest sign that Garcetti and the council are pushing off personnel expenses until the next fiscal year. In July, they authorized buyouts of up to $80,000 for workers who retire. Although those workers are already starting to leave their jobs, the vast majority of the bill for that program won't come due until 2021-22. Under the new agreement, the unions' $6.2-million payment of unused sick time would be pushed back to January 2022, moving another expense to the next fiscal year. Garcetti had originally called for furloughs in April, after the city was plunged into a financial crisis sparked by coronavirus and the accompanying shutdown of businesses and tourism. Hotel taxes, sales taxes and other sources of revenue came in far below projections, just as the city was scheduled to give raises to police officers, firefighters and workers in the Coalition of L.A. City Unions. Coalition workers are set to receive a 2% increase in January followed by another in June. Police officers received a 1.5% raise in July and will see another 3.25% in January. Firefighters received a 4.75% pay hike in July. Garcetti has advised city department heads to begin preparations for a "potential layoff scenario," by identifying positions for possible elimination. The council also cut $150 million from the LAPD, putting $40 million of those savings in a fund to avoid furloughs of civilian workers for at least two months. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Police in Colorado say no arrests are expected in the deaths of an elderly couple who were found suffering from fatal gunshot wounds near a hiking trail over the weekend. Officials with the Colorado Springs Police Department announced on Sunday they were not looking for any suspects in the deaths of Lee Vigil, 73, and Stella Vigil, 72. The couple were reported missing at around 8.30pm on Friday in Colorado Springs after they didnt return from a hike near Edmundson trailhead on Woodmen Road. Colorado Springs police say no arrests are expected after Lee and Stella Vigil, who were in their 70s, were found shot dead on a hike over the weekend When relatives of the Vigils' and El Paso County Search and Rescue officers arrived to the trail, they found the couples car, according to KKTV. Four hours later, at around 12.30am, officials found the couples bodies off the Santa Fe trail near Fountain Creek, about a three-hour walk away from where the couple first started the hike. The couple apparently suffered gunshot wounds. Police said they have identified all persons involved in the case, and 'there is no danger to the community'. Detectives added they do not anticipate any arrests in the deaths, reported Colorado Springs Gazette. Investigators declined to further elaborate on this case. The results of the Vigil couple's autopsies are expected to be made public on Tuesday, including their exact cause and manner of death. Locals were shocked to learn of the Vigils' deaths in the hiking area frequented by couples and families. Around 12.30am officials found the couples bodies off the Santa Fe trail near Fountain Creek. A view of Fountain Creek above 'I don't want my wife to come here alone. She always has to come with me from now on, if we come back,' Morty Zand who was hiking near the trail on Saturday said to KRDO. 'Up until today I usually feel pretty good. You have to be a little careful, sometimes there are some sketchy people,' Michael Hollenbeck who recognized the couple said to the outlet. 'It's sad, it's upsetting, I think I've seen them on the trail before,' he added. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 5) The Philippines is hoping to achieve not just the flattening of the curve, but also a sustained downward trajectory of new virus infections, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said on Monday. We would like a downward trajectory, more than the flattening of the curve Remember, this virus will stay with us, Duque said in an exclusive interview with CNN Philippines The Source. In early September, the OCTA research team said the Philippines has already flattened the curve of coronavirus cases, with its reproductive rate sitting at a value less than one. The statistical measure, used to determine the contagiousness or rate of virus transmission, should ideally be one or less, as anything higher means there is still a significant community transmission. RELATED: PH flattens COVID-19 curve, but public urged not to be overly excited research group Duque, however, admitted that such movement has yet to reach a significant level in the countrys virus battle. Bumababa siya (it's decreasing), thats what the OCTA report said, but not yet to a level that is significant, he stressed. The goal is to have a downward trajectory. The Philippines as of Sunday logged a total of 322,497 cases of infections, making it the 20th nation in the world with the most virus cases. This puts the country only a thousand cases behind Turkey (324,443). as well as Italy (325,329 ) once the epicenter of COVID-19 in Europe. PH still doing okay job with limited resources Despite the bleak news, local health experts have stressed the importance of analyzing the trend of infections, noting how the Philippines is among the countries with a decreasing number of newly-recorded cases. Duque also cited the Philippines improving case fatality and recovery rates, as well as ramped up healthcare system including boosted testing, tracing, and clinical management efforts. He underscored that the country has also been doing a relatively okay job compared to other nations including our Southeast Asian neighbors which have more resources and crisis funds. He added that he believes the country is "headed towards the right direction" in its COVID-19 response. Ang resources natin ay (our resources are) really much much more limited than theirs," the health chief said. "I think, relatively, were okay. Were not doing fantastic, but were doing okay. Were adjusting. (Alliance News) - The work of deploying a coronavirus vaccine will be for the UK Department of Health and be based on clinical advice from experts, Matt Hancock said. The Health Secretary's comments came after the head of the country's vaccine taskforce said less than half of the UK population could be given a jab to protect against the virus. Kate Bingham told the Financial Times that officials were hoping to be able to administer the medicine to around 30 million adults and "we just need to vaccinate everyone at risk". The UK has a population of around 67 million. But when asked about her comments Hancock said his department would take advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation. Last month the JCVI said care home residents were among those who should be given the jab first, with healthy members of the public later vaccinated according to their age. Towards the bottom of the list was all those aged 50 and over, followed by the rest of the population, with priority yet to be determined. The JCVI said the "prioritisation could change substantially if the first available vaccines were not considered suitable for, or effective in, older adults". Hancock told MPs in the Commons on Monday: "The vaccine taskforce has done incredibly important work in supporting the scientific development and manufacture of vaccines, and in procuring six different types of vaccine from around the world. "The work of deploying a vaccine is for my department, working with the NHS and the armed forces, who are helping enormously with the logistical challenge. "We will take the advice on the deployment of the vaccine based on clinical advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccinations and Immunisations." Bingham had told the FT: "People keep talking about 'time to vaccinate the whole population' but that is misguided. "There is going to be no vaccination of people under 18. "It's an adult-only vaccine for people over 50 focusing on health workers and care home workers and the vulnerable." When she was appointed as chairwoman of the vaccine taskforce in May she said an immediate aim was "to ensure everyone in the UK that needs to be vaccinated against Covid-19 can be as soon as practicable". A government spokesperson said: "We want as many people as possible to access a Covid-19 vaccine and we are considering the advice of the independent Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation on which groups of people to prioritise. "The committee's interim advice is the vaccine should first be given to care home residents and staff, followed by people over 80 and health and social care workers, then to the rest of the population in order of age and risk. "An enormous amount of planning and preparation has taken place across Government to quickly roll out a safe and effective vaccine." source: PA Copyright 2020 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved. The global anthem The Rapist is You!" from 2019 has landed its Chilean creators a spot in Time Magazines 100 most influential people of 2020. The protest song, which became a mighty roar in 2019 following a series of rapes and rising cases of violence against women, was created by four performing artists who were part of a Chilean feminist group named LASTESIS". It highlighted sexual violence against women and soon spread to several parts of the world including India which at the time had been rocked by the Unnao and Hyderabad among others. What is The Rapist Is You"? First performed in the port city of Valparaiso on November 20, in the space of a few weeks it has been replicated hundreds of times around the world, and videos of flashmob performances have gone viral. On November 25 last year when the world observed the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, a group of Chilena protesters took to the road outside the Supreme Court in Santiago, Chile, and performed the angry and lyrically evocative song called The Rapist in You (or the Rapist in your Path) against gender violence. The flashmob was joined by hundreds of women who took to the streets to protest the rising cases of femicide and gender violence as well as rape and sexual assault in Chile. As per reports, there are 42 cases of sexual assault reported within one day in Chile. That means nearly two cases every hour. The song quickly went viral as a feminist anthem across the world. READ: The Rapist is You!: Global Anthem Against Sexual Violence is Making Its Way to India What is the symbolism of The Rapist is You" dance? The powerful lyrics of the song are accompanied by a series of carefully choreographed steps such as squatting, to represent the disrespect meted out to women when they are made to strip and squat upon arrest. Pussy Riots Nadezhda Tolokonnikova writes in Time that the step is inspired by the real-life disgust women undergo in the name of law and order. Who is LasTesis? LasTesis Collective is a feminist artist group that uses performative art focusing on finding solutions to gender inequality, sexism, and violence by holding those in power accountable. They recently released a new song in collaboration with Russian feminist group Pussy Riots about police violence against Latin American women and women of colour. Due to their performative demonstrations, the group is currently under investigation for the alleged intimidation of cops. The groups main aim is to bring forth feminist theories to the masses. The women from the group said they never imagined their protest anthem, and its powerful message against macho violence would be so quickly and energetically echoed around the world. Why were they named as Times 100 Most Influential People in 2020? Las Tesiss song went viral in 52 countries from across the world and went on to become a global feminist anthem against gender violence as well as organised negligence on the part of those in charge of maintaining law and order. Issues like victim/survivor shaming, slut-shaming, and downplaying womens subjective experiences of sexual violence at home and the workplace continue to remain rampant. With rising cases of violence against women around the world, it becomes essential to raise questions and fix accountability to make each and every country safer for women. By Kang Seung-woo U.S. President Donald Trump's COVID-19 diagnosis has "unexpectedly" eased diplomatic challenges for Korea, stuck in the middle of the struggle between the United States and China for supremacy, after it canceled a top American diplomat's trip to Seoul, which would have brought his counterpart from Beijing here and consequently dragged Korea into the hegemonic rivalry. U.S. State Secretary Mike Pompeo / Korea Times file In the wake of Trump's coronavirus infection last week, U.S. State Secretary Mike Pompeo scrapped his planned visit to Korea and Mongolia, although he is now pushing ahead with a trip to Japan for a Quad Meeting with his counterparts from Australia, India and Japan. Quad refers to the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, which is a strategic forum established in 2007 to counter China's increasing power. Pompeo's shortened trip to Asia may have delivered a blow to the Korean government, which wanted to promote President Moon Jae-in's drive for the end-of-Korean War declaration, but the cancellation also has a silver lining, meaning Korea will not be placed for the time being under pressure from the U.S. and China to pick a side. The U.S. is Korea's long-time security ally, while China is its top trading partner. While Korea and the U.S. were arranging Pompeo's visit, initially scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, rumors were flying around that the Chinese government was in talks with its Korean counterpart to send its Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Seoul as well, raising speculation that China was going tit-for-tat over Pompeo's visit. The Korean foreign ministry has yet to confirm Wang's visit. "Korea has narrowly avoided finding itself in an awkward position following the trip cancellation," said Park Won-gon, a professor of international politics at Handong Global University. According to Park, both Pompeo and Wang would have come to Korea with clear-cut agendas, with the U.S. wanting Korea to participate in its own Clean Network program and China cajoling Seoul into its own Global Initiative on Data Security. The Clean Network program is the Trump administration's comprehensive approach to exclude Chinese tech firms from internet infrastructure used by the U.S. and other nations, while the Chinese initiative is aimed at countering the U.S. move. "Pompeo's goal of the visit was to urge Korea to join the anti-China alliance and in that respect, the cancellation is giving leeway to the Korean government," Park said. While announcing the trip cancellation, the U.S. State Department said Pompeo "expects to be traveling to Asia again in October," which does not seem feasible. Trump could be discharged on Monday: doctors Pompeo to visit Japan, skip Korea Pompeo asks for Korea's understanding over trip cancellation "As Trump is sick and the U.S. presidential election will be held on Nov. 3, Pompeo would not be able to rearrange his visit to Korea so soon, helping the country buy time at least until after the election," Park said. With the Pompeo visit put on the shelf, it remains to be seen whether the Chinese foreign minister will visit Korea. "I expect Wang to visit here," said Shin Beom-chul, director of the Center for Diplomacy and Security at the Korea Research Institute for National Strategy. "However, his visit is more likely to focus on Chinese President Xi Jinping's trip to Korea." Since President Moon last visited China in 2017, Korea has sought Xi's reciprocal visit to Seoul within this year to address remaining economic retaliatory measures imposed by China on Korea following the deployment of a U.S. anti-missile Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system here. However, some analysts believe Pompeo's trip cancellation is an expression of frustration over Korea's still-ambivalent stance between the two powerhouses. "I think Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha's skeptical remarks on the Quad may have impacted the U.S. decision," Shin said. "Even if Pompeo had come here, he would not have gotten the answer the U.S. wants regarding the Quad. In that respect, there is no need for him to visit Korea." Last month, Kang said in a virtual seminar that it was not a good idea to join the Quad to constrain China, which Shin believes is a diplomatic failure. "We don't think anything that automatically shuts out, and is exclusive of, the interests of others is a good idea," Kang said. Kim Yeoul-soo, chief of the Security Strategy Office at the Korea Institute for Military Affairs, expressed a similar view. More tech news includes Poco X3 going on sale in India and the government kickstarting the five-day long RAISE 2020 conference. It was an eventful day in the world of technology today. On one hand, Motorola launched the Moto Razr 5G in India. On the other hand, Paytm launched its own mini-app store for developers in the country. In addition to that Flipkart announced a partnership with Paytm ahead of its festive sale. So, heres everything that made headlines in the world of technology today: Paytm launches Android Mini App Store Paytm on Monday launched its own Android Mini App Store. The mini-app store has been launched to support Indian developers such that they are able to take their innovative products to the masses. Poco X3 goes on sale in India Xiaomi's Poco X3 went on sale in India via Flipkart today. The phone costs 16,999, 18,499 and 19,999 for 6GB+64GB, 6GB+128GB, and 8GB+128GB models respectively. Moto Razr 5G launched in India Motorola launched the Moto Razr 5G smartphone in India today. The phone costs 1,14,999 and it will go on sale in India starting October 12. RAISE 2020 Indian government kickstarted its five-day long RAISE 2020 summit virtually today. At the event, Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani lauded PM Modi's efforts in bringing digital transformation in India. Flipkart partners with Paytm Flipkart today announced a special partnership with Paytm today. This partnership will enable Paytm users to use their Paytm Wallets and Paytm UPI for paying for their purchases during Flipkarts Big Billion Days sale. Ahead of the upcoming Bihar assembly election 2020, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal (United) on Monday reached the seat-sharing deal. The official announcement on the coalition, seats and candidates will be made on Tuesday in Bihar's capital Patna, according to sources. The JD(U) will contest on 122 seats while the BJP will fight the election on the remaining 121 seats. The JD(U) with its give five of its seats to Jitan Ram Majhi's Hindustan Awam Morcha (HAM) and BJP with share and give seats to the Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) of Mukesh Nishad. Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) of former Bollywood set designer Mukesh Sahni, who wields some influence on fellow 'Mallah' caste men in some pockets, has deserted the grand alliance. After walking out of the NDA in Bihar, Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) president Chirag Paswan on Monday targeted Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and appealed to people against voting for Kumar's JD(U). Chirag Paswan claimed that an alliance of his party and the BJP will come to power in the state after the Assembly polls. In an open letter, Chirag Paswan told the voters of Bihar that a vote for the Janata Dal (United) will force the migration of their children tomorrow as he sought their support for his party candidates in the three-phase poll starting October 28. Earlier on Sunday, the LJP decided to put up its candidates against the JD(U) citing "ideological differences" with the party to assert that it will not accept Kumar's leadership of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Paswan said, "This is the most decisive moment in the history of the state of Bihar. It is a question of life and death of the 12 crore people of the state and we have no time to lose.... The road ahead is not easy for the LJP but we will fight and win too," adding all LJP MLAs will work under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Notably, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is the principal member of the NDA and it has already announced Kumar as the leader of the bloc in the state. The 37-year-old leader also made a reference to his ailing father, Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, who has undergone heart surgery at a private hospital in Delhi and is expected to remain hospitalised for some time. Talking about Saying "Bihar first, Bihari first" vision document, Paswan said his father would be proud that his son has stuck to the issue he had raised through it. On Sunday, the LJP announced that it will go solo in the upcoming Assembly election in Bihar. Chirag Paswan made the statement after a meeting of its senior party leaders in Delhi. In response to a question on whether the LJP has decided to join hands with the BJP, he said, "Let me enjoy the moment." Live TV Talking to media after the meeting of LJP's central parliamentary board at his residence in Delhi, Chirag said, "I will not speak more but we will win the battle." "Lok Janshakti Party will not contest the upcoming Bihar elections in alliance with Janata Dal (United) due to ideological differences," Abdul Khaliq, national general secretary, LJP said. Notably, Bihar Assembly polls will be held in three phases on October 28, November 3, and November 7, while the counting of votes will take place on November 10. Remdesivir has gone through many clinical trials in Chicago. President Donald Trump was given Remdesivir to recover from COVID-19, according to CBS Chicago. A doctor told CBS 2's Steven Graves on Saturday that the drug might be a game-changer in Trump's recovery. A part of one of the biggest studies on remdesivir in the country, with positive results, Dr. Kathleen Mullane said the president would benefit from the drug. However, the European Medicine Agency is now conducting a safety review on Remdesivir, following reports that several patients have developed severe kidney problems after they took the drug. Health authorities are planning to halt the usage of remdesivir in certain countries until more safety studies are done after receiving reports that some patients taking the Remdesivir reported serious kidney problems. Initially, the drug was granted emergency use authorization (EUA) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Trump administration despite doubtful results. Remdesivir also has no proven direct efficacy studies that it inhibits SARS-COV-2, as per Thailand Medical. Remdesivir was only approved only because it shortens hospitalization stays of the patients. But it does not decrease mortality rates, nor any long term safety studies were done on it. In the U.S., the treatment for COVID-19 disease using Remdesivir costs over $3,600 for the five-day course and starts over $7,200 for the generic versions in India. On Saturday, a White House staff said that Trump got the second dose of Remdesivir. In the President's latest video on Saturday, Trump said he was grateful for the support and the treatments he gets. "If you look at the therapeutics I'm taking right now, some of them, and others that are coming out right now that are looking like, frankly, they're miracles," said the President. Remdisivir is one of those drugs that aim to stop the coronavirus from spreading. It also targets to give a patient's immune system a chance to fight it off. Most benefits saw by higher-risk patients like Trump. Mullane said: "He [Trump] fits the criteria for the early criteria for the emergency use of the drug." Mullane held two studies about remdesivir and COVID-19, composed of 224 participants. One trial was conducted on severely ill patients. For the other sturdy composed of those who were moderately ill, some were given a placebo for the other research. In most cases, those who received Remdesivir only needed five days of therapy. According to Mullane, they found the number of days that patients are required in the hospital was fewer than those who had the placebo arm. She added that the experiment showed that the faster someone gets the drug, the better. Remdesivir is only available intravenously. That's why it is not easy to use except in the hospital, said Mullane. Besides, the FDA only gave the drug EUA. Trump is also getting help from other lesser-familiar drugs, including an antibody cocktail from Regeneron. Mullane said although the antibody cocktail is still experimental, it is helpful. "If I had a patient who presented to me who was ill and older and needed to be hospitalized, yes, I would certainly tell them to use both of those agents," she added. Mullane is hopeful that the team's findings regarding Remdesivir could help convince the FDA to officially approve the drug to make it more widely available. Check these out: Trump's Blood Oxygen Levels Drop When Rushed to Hospital, Chief of Staff Reveals Trump's COVID-19 Could Lead to Severe Complications Due to Age and Weight Trump Tests Positive for COVID-19: Who Else Around the White House Are Positive, Negative? He wasn't on the ticket, but Walter Reed loomed large over the St. Tammany and Washington Parish district attorney's race in 2014: the federal investigation that ended his political career turned public corruption into the main issue in the election that political newcomer Warren Montgomery won in a runoff. Six years later, Montgomery continues to tout his reformer bona fides, saying that he restored public trust in an office badly damaged by Reed's conviction. A small figure of a white knight a symbol he used in 2014 still sits in his office today. But the 65-year-old incumbent is having to defend his performance against a fierce opponent, 48-year-old Vincent Wynne, a self-assured criminal defense attorney who is running as the repairman he says is needed to fix what he describes as a broken office. The race between the two St. Tammany Parish Republicans is the highest-profile local contest on the Nov. 3 ballot for north shore voters. The two have squared off at nearly a dozen forums, where they've taken shots at each other's legal experience. Montgomery says that Wynne, who spent eight years in the misdemeanor division under Reed, has never tried a felony case before a jury. Wynne says that Montgomery has never tried or defended a case in state court, and has questioned how many cases he handled while working for former U.S. Attorney John Volz in New Orleans. But the main clash between the two isn't over resumes. It's over the running of the office itself. Montgomery says that he took on the political establishment and stepped on toes but decisions made by his office now are made on merit instead of political considerations. Wynne, he said, "represents the remnants of the Reed-Strain political machine." Wynne says that criminal prosecutions have been bogged down under Montgomery and points to fewer trials during his tenure as evidence that too many criminals are getting plea deals. Montgomery, he said, isn't tough enough on crime. The stakes of the election are high. Whoever wins will oversee an office that's about to take on one of the most fraught cases in the history of the north shore's 22nd Judicial District: the prosecution of former St. Tammany Sheriff Jack Strain, who is facing sex crime charges. And while there hasn't been a death penalty case tried by the office in nine years, one is looming now, the trial of Mark Spicer, accused of fatally shooting Mandeville Police Capt. Vincent Liberto. Montgomery, who was born in Metairie and got his undergraduate and law degrees from LSU, is no stranger to battles. He faced a formidable opponent six years ago in Brian Trainor, who had the backing of law enforcement, including Strain, who was then still a powerful political figure. More recently, Montgomery faced another kind of adversary: cancer. He had surgery to remove a kidney last year, touching off speculation that he wouldn't seek re-election. He quieted those rumors when he qualified, saying doctors gave him the green light. Reforming the office and restoring public trust was a huge task, he said. "The district attorney's office didn't believe there was anything wrong, as an overall organization. But the people thought there was something wrong. That's why they elected me," he said. Montgomery changed the culture of the office, he says, largely through new policies and procedures. Some changes, like the creation of a screening division, had an impact on law enforcement and may have caused some consternation, he said. "But the results are that we're getting more felony convictions and we're doing it on a more timely basis and saving the taxpayers money. And in the long term, it's going to reduce crime," he said. Top stories in New Orleans in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up He dismisses Wynne's attacks on the decrease in trials. "There's nothing to complain about in the DA's Office, so he has to make things up," Montgomery said. While it's statistically accurate to say there are fewer trials than under his predecessor, Montgomery said Reed inflated his numbers by engaging in what are know as "pick and pleas," where a plea agreement is made right after a jury is chosen. He ended that practice, he said. His office held 46 trials in 2018, the last year for which Louisiana Supreme Court data is available, compared to 50 in Jefferson Parish and 48 in Orleans Parish. Montgomery points out that St. Tammany has a smaller population than either of those jurisdictions and says St. Tammany generates the third highest number of felony trials in the state, behind New Orleans and Jefferson Parish. Montgomery said that there are more felony cases now, which means the number of plea bargains have gone up, too. In a second term, Montgomery said he wants to improve his relationship with law enforcement. "Law enforcement feels they are under attack, and they are...they need to know that the community supports them and they need to know that the DA supports them." But Montgomery said voters also want an independent DA "who will work with, but not for, law enforcement." Wynne, a Mandeville native who got his undergraduate degree from LSU and a law degree from Loyola University, says that as someone who "lives" in the courthouse, he sees first hand that the DA's office is in trouble. He points to high turnover among the assistant district attorneys, what he sees as a flawed screening process and a heavy-handed management style as factors that have created gridlock and produced fewer prosecutions. "If the community wants to continue its quality of life, we have to have a strong, pro-prosecution stance. It's what's kept us safe for years," he said. "You can say 'St. Slammany, I don't agree with that, I think that was really heavy-handed,'" he said, alluding to St. Tammany's nickname under Reed. "But what's happening now, it's gone to the extreme, and I don't think they're prosecuting the cases like they need to." He said that includes pleading murder cases down to manslaughter. "Law enforcement wants these cases tried, and more importantly, victims want a day in court," Wynne said. Wynne said when he joined the DA's office in its misdemeanor division in 1997, it was unusual for a lawyer just out of law school to be hired by the the office. But he learned to deal with people and tried thousands of cases, he said. When he left in 2005, he and his law partners, who also had worked for Reed, launched Wynne, Goux & Lobello, which he calls his proudest achievement. Wynne bristles at accusations that he represents the old guard. When he left the DA's office, he said, the firm took no appointments or business from Reed. "We wanted to be autonomous, we wanted to be our own people," he said, adding that he and Vinny Lobello, recently elected judge, had always planned to run for office. Wynne offers a detailed critique of Montgomery's administration, particularly the screening process, which he said forces law enforcement to provide every bit of evidence before a screener will even look at it. That slows the process and frustrates law enforcement officers, he said. He favors what he calls vertical screening, with cases assigned to assistant DAs who can then rely on their investigators to track down information. "You now have a vested interest in this case, you worked it, it's your case," he said. Wynne said he would hire more experienced attorneys who could help younger colleagues and stop the high turnover that he says is slowing cases. And he would give assistant DAs more autonomy instead of requiring all decisions to go through the chief of felony prosecution. He also promises to spend time in all four of the DA's offices, two in St. Tammany and two in Washington Parish. "The DA himself needs to be accessible to the community ... to make sure you constituents have a voice. They don't have a voice right now." Boston, Mass, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- InfoWorld the technology media brand committed to keeping IT decision-makers ahead of the technology curve announces the winners of its 2020 Best of Open Source Software Awards , also known as the Bossies. In its 14th year, InfoWorlds Bossies recognize 25 innovative products and next-generation tools that provide developers and IT organizations with the ability for easier, faster and more efficient digital transformation. Selected by InfoWorlds editors and expert reviewers that work in IT and software development who have practical experience with the leading open source technologies the 2020 Bossie Award winners align with these four trending tech categories: data analytics, cloud computing, machine learning and software development. Like a benevolent Borg, open source sweeps across the software universe year after year, bringing innovation to everything it touches, said Doug Dineley, Executive Editor of InfoWorld. From better ways to build web applications or machine learning models or automated workflows to faster and more powerful distributed databases and analytics, our 2020 Bossie Award winners will amaze you with what cutting-edge open source software has to offer. To learn more about the 2020 Best of Open Source Software Award recipients, visit InfoWorld.com . InfoWorlds 2020 Best of Open Source Software Award Winners: Apache Airflow Apache Arrow Apache Druid Apache Superset Apromore Argo Bottlerocket Chapel Drupal Gatsby Hasura JanusGraph Jekyll K9s KubeDirector Lem Open Policy Agent Optuna Prisma QuestDB Redis Seldon Core Sourcegraph SPIFFE Vulkan About InfoWorld Best of Open Source Software Awards Each year, InfoWorlds Bossies (Best of Open Source Software awards) recognize the best open source software for businesses and IT professionals. InfoWorlds central mission has always been to identify the most innovative products available to developers and IT organizations. Increasingly, those products ranging from software development tools to cloud infrastructure software to big data platforms come from open source projects. Bossie winners are chosen by InfoWorld editors and reviewers. About InfoWorld InfoWorld from IDG is the leading resource for content and tools for keeping IT decision-makers ahead of the technology curve. The InfoWorld Expert Contributor Network provides a unique perspective in the market; our editors provide first-hand experience from testing, deploying and managing implementation of emerging enterprise technologies. InfoWorlds Web site ( InfoWorld.com ) and strategic marketing services provide a deep dive into specific technologies to help IT decision-makers excel in their roles and provide opportunities for IT vendors to reach this audience. InfoWorld is published by IDG Communications, Inc. Company information is available at https://www.idg.com . Follow InfoWorld on Twitter: @InfoWorld #Bossies2020 Follow IDG on Twitter: @IDGWorld Join InfoWorld on LinkedIn: http://www.infoworld.com/linkedin Like InfoWorld on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InfoWorld About IDG Communications, Inc. IDG Communications connects the world of tech buyers with insights, intent and engagement. We are the worlds largest media, data and marketing services company that activates and engages the most influential technology buyers. Our premium brands, including CIO, Computerworld, CSO, InfoWorld, Macworld, Network World, and PCWorld engage a quality audience of the most powerful audience of technology buyers providing essential guidance on the evolving technology landscape. Our global data intelligence platform activates purchasing intent, powering our clients success. IDG Marketing Services creates custom content with marketing impact across video, mobile, social and digital. We execute complex campaigns that fulfill marketers global ambitions seamlessly with consistency that delivers quality results. Before being tested positive for Covid-19, President Trump gave an update on the national expansion of the testing capability for the Corona virus. Trump was Mondays KVML Newsmaker of the Day. Here are his words: Thank you for joining us as we announce a massive and groundbreaking expansion in our testing capability of the for the China virus. And as you know, its already setting records records like nobody has ever seen before. Last week, we crossed a historic milestone when the United States conducted our 100 millionth test, far more than any other country, and not even close, actually. Second seems to be India with 1.5 billion people, and the numbers would be probably at least 50 million more tests by us. Weve conducted more tests than the entire European Union and more than all of Latin America combined. Were thrilled to be joined by Vice President Mike Pence; Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar; Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos hi, Betsy; Administrator for the Centers for Medicine and Medicaid Services Seema Verma Seema; and Admiral Giroir, whos done such an incredible job. Thank you, Admiral. Were also joined by Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves. Had a tremendous victory. Were so proud of you. And as well by Abbott CEO Robert Ford. Robert, thank you very much. Great job. Today, Im pleased to report that were announcing our plan to distribute 150 million Abbott rapid point-of-care tests in the coming weeks very, very soon. This will be more than double the number of tests already performed. And heres our plan: Fifty million tests will go to protect the most vulnerable communities, which weve always promised to do, including 18 million for nursing homes; 15 million for assisted living facilities; 10 million for home, health, and hospece [sic] care hospice care agencies; and nearly 1 million for historically black colleges and universities, and also tribal nation colleges. One hundred million rapid point-of-care tests will be given to states and territories to support efforts to reopen their economies and schools immediately and fast as they can. For example, the support my administration is providing would allow every state to, on a very regular basis, test every teacher who needs it. This continues our critical effort to use testing to protect high-risk communities. These new Abbott rapid point-of-care tests are easy to use and return results within just minutes. Youll have a result at a maximum 15 minutes. Machine no machine is required to process them. So, in the old days, when we just started this, you remember wed go out and wed have to find these massive laboratories with tremendously expensive equipment. Now were down to something that youll see that is really from a different planet. I would like to ask Admiral Giroir to come up and demonstrate how these tests are performed. Youll do this very nicely, I think. Good luck. Hope you dont test positive. (Laughter.) ADMIRAL GIROIR: So, thank you, Mr. President. As of today, the nation has performed over 111 million tests for the virus causing COVID. On 13 separate days, we have achieved tests over 1 million per day, and our average test numbers are now approximately 920,000 per day. We are now at an inflection point in testing. We now have available, on average, 3 million tests per day, not counting pooled testing, which could multiply that number several fold. Nearly half of our current tests are rapid point-of-care. All of the actions of your administration including aggressive use of multiple titles of the DPA; hundreds of millions of dollars in HHS and DOD investments; and regulatory flexibility, including over 200 FDA emergency use authorizations, CLIA enforcement discretion, and application of the PREP Act have led us to this inflection point, which brings us why were here today. On August 27th, after months of planning and only after one day after the FDA authorization, the Trump administration awarded a contract for $760 million to Abbott for the delivery of 150 million of these Abbott BinaxNOW rapid tests. The BinaxNOW detects the presence of the COVID antigen. It uses a specific nasal swab, and that swab comes with the test, and its made by Puritan. And the reason why Puritan swabs are here is because the administration used the DPA and $120 million in investment to make these swabs able to use by Abbott. It does not require an instrument to determine the result. Its 15 its in 15 minutes, the result. Testing may be performed by laboratories with a clear certificate of waiver. This is not a home test. But during the health emergency, Seema Verma and CMS permits laboratories to extend their certificate to operate in temporary sites, like schools or churches or parking lots. So though we anticipate that the test will generally be performed by a trained individual on a patient, I will demonstrate a self-swab for you to show you just exactly how easy the test is performed. So, literally, it almost could not be easier. It starts with six drops of liquid onto this piece of paper one, two three, four, five, six. And then theres a nasal swab. And again, this is this is not the deep brain biopsy that we talk about. This will be generally done by a healthcare provider, but it can be done supervised. Its this easy: one, two, three, four, five. One, two, three, four, five. Into the test. Twist it three times. The adhesive is pulled off, and you wait 15 minutes. And that is the test. It really could not be easier than this. This is a very sophisticated little piece of cardboard with lots of antibodies and incredible technology into that. Weve already shipped 65,000 of these to disaster operations in California, Oregon, Texas, and Louisiana, and we have already shipped 2.1 million tests to 7,600 nursing homes, over 900,000 tests to assisted living, 300,000 tests to the Indian Health Service, and 339,000 tests to historically black colleges and universities. Today, we start the shipment of 100 million tests to governors, beginning with a total of 6.5 million tests this week to be shipped this week. This is in addition to the continuing support to other priorities, like nursing homes. Allocation to states and territories is based strictly on their relative population. Governors have the flexibility to use these tests as they deem fit, but we strongly encourage governors to utilize them in settings that are uniquely in need of rapid, low-tech, point-of- care tests, like opening and keeping open our K-through-12 schools; supporting critical infrastructure and first responders; responding to outbreak, specifically in certain demographics or locations; and screening of surveillance in congregate settings. Mr. President, we just completed a briefing to the governors and their state health officials from the Sit Room, and we heard words like game changer for their states. Thank you, Mr. President, for your leadership and support of all our efforts to defeat this virus. THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much, Admiral. And let me ask you, Governor Reeves, do you do agree? Would you like to say something? GOVERNOR REEVES: Well, thank you, Mr. President, for your leadership through this pandemic and through this crisis. This is it was said by Republicans and Democrats alike earlier this is a game changer. In our state of Mississippi, our K-through-12 schools have been open for nine weeks. Our institutions of higher learning have been open for about the same. But while we have testing available now at least once a week in every county of our state, what this allocation is going to allow for us is we will have testing available for our K-through-12 teachers every single day going forward. And the thing that we know is that kids learn and Secretary DeVos knows this so well kids learn so much better when theyre in the classroom than when theyre doing distance learning or a hybrid. And while we have 75 to 80 percent of our kids back in the classroom, we want to get 100 percent of our kids back in the classroom. It is also critically important, Mr. President your decision to allocate, on the front end, to the historically black colleges and universities means the world to Mississippi. Our larger institutions have the financial resources to provide testing, but in Mississippi, with Jackson State University and Alcorn University Alcorn State University and Mississippi Valley State University, three of our eight institutions of higher learning will get an allocation of these tests, and its going to make a difference. And kids all across our state are going to be better served because of it. And I want to personally thank you on behalf of the residents of Mississippi for doing this, Mr. President. Thank you. THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Thank you, Tate. Great job. In a short period of time, my administration has built the most advanced testing system in the world. Theres never been anything like this. When the pandemic struck, there were zero tests for the China virus, but weve marshaled all of Americas resources to achieve these unparalleled capabilities. We slashed red tape and approved emergency use authorizations for 243 type of tests. Thats how many tests we have. I invoked the Defense Production Act and related authorities more than 100 times and distributed $171 million to expand testing production. Weve done nearly twice as much testing per capita as France, Italy, and Germany, and over six times more testing per capita than South Korea. Weve done far more than any other country, usually times two, three, four, five, or six. Weve performed nearly 40 million more tests than India. And by the end of next month, we will have over 100 million tests available in the market. More than half will be point-of-care tests those are the quick ones and theyre really the ones that have the best impact with the results in less than 15 minutes. Weve also prioritized resources for the most vulnerable, including nursing home residents. We delivered rapid testing devices to nearly 14,000 certified nursing homes. We opened over 1,000 community testing sites in low-income communities. Nobody could have done this. We invested an unprecedented $8 billion to help tribal communities have the tests and resources they need to combat the virus. And its important to remember that as younger and healthier people return to work, and as we massively increase testing capacity, we will identify more cases and asymptomatic individuals in low-risk populations. This should not cause undue alarm. The total number of cases is not the full metric of success. Hospitalization capacity and mortality rates are far more instructive metrics. As we do more tests, youre going to have automatically more cases. We are relentlessly focused on protecting the vulnerable while enabling healthy Americans to go back to work. We can do both as Florida, Arizona, and other states have recently shown. Over the last eight weeks, hospitalizations have declined by 48 percent, and theyve just reached the lowest point since March. Thats a long time ago. Due to advances in treatment, the fatality rate has fallen 85 percent since April. Our excess mortality has been considerably lower than comparable countries. Excess mortality compares total deaths during a pandemic to what we would be expected in a normal year. This is a critical measurement because it includes undetected China virus deaths, along with deaths resulting from lockdowns. And lockdowns can be very harmful, and we have too many states that are locked down right now. The governors are nobody knows what the governors are doing, actually. Europe has experienced a 50 percent greater excess mortality rate during the virus than the U.S., and their economic contraction has been far more severe. Under Operation Warp Speed, my administration is on track to deliver a safe and effective vaccine in record time. Were doing very well with the vaccines, as most of you know. Four vaccines are now in the final stage of trials. The day the vaccine is approved by the FDA, well begin distributing it within 24 hours, with hundreds of millions of doses to follow very quickly. Were all set to go. Were all ready. And logistically, were we have the military lined up, and some incredible people are just waiting to have it. Over 100 million doses will be available before the end of the year. We will defeat the virus and we will end the pandemic. And next year will be one of the greatest years in our history, and we think its going to be a very exciting period of time. With that, Id like to ask Mike to say a few words because you just left a task force meeting. Vice President Mike Pence. THE VICE PRESIDENT: Thank you, Mr. President. This is a historic day. And other than the day that I believe will come soon that America produces the first safe and effective vaccine whats announced today, with the distribution of 150 million rapid point-of-care tests all across America, its a testament to your leadership, Mr. President; its a testament to this great team that youve assembled from Secretary Azar, Admiral Giroir, and others; its a testament to the partnership that we forged with governors, like Governor Reeves, all across America. And its a testament to great companies like Abbott Laboratories and the thousands of employees who, Mr. President, I know have literally worked around the clock since those early days in this pandemic, when you brought in the greatest research companies in America and said that We need medicines known as therapeutics. We need a vaccine for America. But you also challenged them to develop a rapid point-of-care test that could be distributed all across America and enabled us to more effectively slow the spread, flatten the curve, protect the vulnerable, and save lives. Now, Mr. President, todays announcement is really emblematic of the public-private partnership that you forged from the early days of this pandemic. As you said, we met today with the nations governors. The White House Coronavirus Task Force completed our 38th conference call with Americas governors. But all along the way, from our very first meeting, you made it clear that wed spare no expense of the federal government the full resources of the federal government you made available to put the health of America first. But you also challenged us and you challenged American industry to bring the full power and innovation of the American economy to bear on this moment. And whether it be PPE, where we forged a partnership to see to the delivery and the manufacture of hundreds of millions of personal protective equipment; whether it be how we started with 15,000 ventilators in the Strategic National Stockpile and today, in partnership with GE Healthcare, Ford, and General Motors, we have over 150,000 ventilators in the Strategic National Stockpile; whether it be the extraordinary progress on therapeutics remdesivir, convalescent plasma that are literally saving lives; or whether it be, as you reflected, Mr. President, on our steady progress toward achieving a safe and effective vaccine before the end of this year, its been that public-private partnership that youve led thats made these advances possible. And on testing, the American people really deserve to know that when we began, as you said, Mr. President, it was literally a standing start. We didnt have information on the coding of the coronavirus until mid-February. But Americas CDC labs and public health labs did their level best, and by the end of February, wed done less than 10,000 coronavirus tests. But as you just announced a few moments ago, last week, we cleared 100 million tests all across the country. Its extraordinary we have the capacity to do 3 million tests a day. Its a testament to American innovation and the leadership that youve provided. Also, Mr. President, weve delivered, to nearly 14,000 nursing homes in America, point-of-care tests already that are making it possible for us to really keep focus on the most vulnerable. As you know, only 8 percent of those who have contracted the coronavirus are in nursing homes, but 40 percent of those that have lost their life have been in nursing homes. And so weve surged those resources and surged them to vulnerable populations. But with the announcement today of this Abbott Laboratories BinaxNOW test, we began a process first announcing 50 million tests to go to our vulnerable communities, to go to minority communities, to Indian Health Services. But as we told all the nations governors today, we begin the process this week of distributing 100 million tests to each state and territory in the country free of charge, so they can begin to deploy those tests to on the priorities that the state set. But, Mr. President, given the extraordinary capacity that we have in testing today, we expressed a hope to all the governors today that they would particularly use these Abbott Binax tests to open up Americas schools and to keep them open. And we heard about the enthusiasm of governors from on both sides of the aisle about what this test will mean and in helping to process helping to process the testing that will get our kids into school and keep our kids in school. And, Mr. President, let me just close by saying this is a weve passed through a challenging time in the life of this nation in 2020, and our hearts and I know your heart is with all the families that have suffered loss. But as you said, cases are declining, hospitalizations have been declining declining dramatically, particularly in the Sun Belt. In Louisiana, where, not long ago, 50 parishes had more than 10 percent positivity rate, now only 3 parishes are testing positive over 10 percent. Arizona was testing 20 percent positivity rate; now its less than 4 percent consistently. But with cases and positivity rising in 10 states in the Midwest and the near west; and with this historic advance in testing thats being distributed 150 strong around the country; Mr. President, the American people should anticipate that that cases will rise in the days ahead. But as we as we more readily identify those whove contracted the coronavirus, the American people can be confident, because of this extraordinary and historic public and pri- private-partnership that youve forged, because of this whole-of-government approach, were ready, as we proved through the outbreak in the Sun Belt this summer. And well make sure that any community, any state thats impacted with rising cases, any school thats impacted will have the PPE, will have the supplies, will have the medicines. And as you said, Mr. President, we will continue, at your direction, our relentless drive toward achieving the first safe and effective vaccine so we can achieve the day that we once and for all put this coronavirus in the past. So, Mr. President, with thanks to our industry partners, thanks to this team, but thanks to you for your strong leadership, I hope for that day. And the American people can be confident we will not rest, we will not relent until we put this coronavirus in the past. THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much, Mike. Scott Atlas, would you say a few words, please, as to how were doing and where you see us going? Please. DR. ATLAS: Okay, thank you, Mr. President. And I also want to echo the congratulations to the team, the task force Admiral Giroir, in particular, whos worked very hard on the testing. This is a remarkable day because we have state-of-the art testing. This is not the typical point-of-care test, even; this is new. This is does not require any kind of machine. Its very rapid. And this is not one of those deep swab things that people are reluctant to use. So I think were were really making an advance here to do what testing is supposed to do, and thats to save lives. As the Vice President mentioned, we know that there are areas of the country that have more cases. This is to be expected with more social mingling. And the testing but particularly protecting the vulnerable, is the key here. We have not seen hospital overcrowding. Were doubling down now with testing to protect vulnerable people not just inside nursing homes, but in residential settings and senior daycare centers. This is a remarkable advance. And I anticipate that as as this virus as we get toward the end of this pandemic and the vaccine is being developed as quickly as it has been America will be in a different position. And there really should be as Ive said many times, the fear is not the issue here. We really have a handle on whats going on. We know what to anticipate, and theres remarkable advances being made as we see today. Thank you very much. THE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you very much. Tremendous progress is being made. And I say, and Ill say it all the time: Were rounding the corner. And, very importantly, vaccines are coming, but were rounding the corner regardless. But vaccines are coming, and theyre coming fast. We have four great companies already, and its going to be added to very rapidly. Theyre in final stages of testing. And from what were hearing, the results are going to be very extraordinary. So thank you very much. I appreciate it. And thank you very much. Great job by Abbott. Right from the beginning, great job Abbott. Thank you. Thank you very much, everybody. Thank you. The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML. Myanmar & COVID-19 Myanmar Reports 41 New COVID-19 Deaths, Setting Daily Record A medic collects a swab at a fever clinic in downtown Yangon in September. / Htet Wai / The Irrawaddy YANGONMyanmar saw a record high number of COVID-19 fatalities on Sunday with 41 new deaths, bringing the Southeast Asian countrys official death toll to 412the third highest in ASEAN after Indonesia and the Philippines. Sundays daily death toll was the highest Myanmar has reported since it detected its first case of the coronavirus in late March. As of Sunday evening, the country had reported a total of 17,794 cases, the fourth highest among the 10 ASEAN countries, following the Philippines, Indonesia and Singapore. After its initial success in containing the virus during the first wave from late March to early August, Myanmar is reeling under a second wave of infections, with the number of new cases and deaths rising sharply each day since early September. Yangon, the countrys business hub, is the hardest-hit region so far, with more than half of the reported cases. The citys COVID-19 hospitals are bursting at the seams, as less than one third of the total cases have been discharged. The government is rushing to build field hospitals and temporary quarantine centers at government schools and housing complexes to handle the influx of cases. City health officials have announced an all-out battle to contain the virus, imposing strict measures like ordering residents not to leave their homes except to buy food and other necessities. To implement a comprehensive test, trace and isolate policy, they are also using rapid test kits to boost testing numbers in order to break the chain of transmission. As of Sunday evening, the country had carried out more than 300,000 tests, according to the government. You may also like these stories: Yangon Health Official Vows All-Out Battle Against COVID-19 Myanmar Health Official Warns of Political Campaign as COVID-19 Cases Exceed 10,000 Myanmars Ayeyarwady Region Prepares Temporary Hospitals to Tackle Rise in COVID-19 Cases Dong Nai to set up more quarantine facilities Authorities in Dong Nai Province said on October 4 that they would set up more quarantine facilities at local resorts for Covid-19 prevention to meet rising demand in the coming time. Dong Nai to set up more quarantine facilities for Covid-19 prevention Washington: Even given the wild unpredictability of 2020, one thing seemed like a safe bet. Donald Trump would not be able to outdo the stunning photo-op he orchestrated in June by clearing protesters from outside the White House to hold up a Bible outside a nearby church. Then he went and did it by going on a surprise joyride outside the hospital where he is being treated for COVID-19. US President Donald Trump wears a face mask and gives supporters a thumbs up during a drive-by with secret service agents outside the hospital. Credit:Bloomberg It was exactly the kind of audacious, damn-the-experts spectacle that explains why Trump's supporters adore him. It also sums up why his approval ratings have been stuck below 50 per cent through his entire presidency and why he is trailing Democratic nominee Joe Biden significantly in the polls less than a month before election day. Trump's willingness to rope in several Secret Service agents to sit in a car with him so that he could wave to supporters outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre shocked medical experts who said he had endangered lives. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 19:29:40|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Photo taken on Oct. 5, 2020 shows a damaged vehicle at the site of an explosion in Mehtarlam city, capital of Laghman province, Afghanistan. At least eight people were killed and 28 others wounded after a car bomb blast rattled Mehtarlam city, capital of Afghanistan's eastern Laghman province on Monday, local police confirmed. (Photo by Saifurahman Safi/Xinhua) MEHTARLAM, Afghanistan, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Four civilians and four security guards were killed and 38 people wounded after a car bomb blast hit Mehtarlam city, capital of Afghanistan's eastern Laghman province on Monday, local government confirmed. "The car bomb blast hit the convoy of provincial governor Rahmatullah Yarmal when the motorcade was passing-by Sultan Ghazi Baba locality of the city. As a result four guards and four pedestrians were martyred and 38, including two guards, were wounded," the government said in a statement. Unofficial sources said a suicide bomber staged the attack that also caused destruction in the city, 90 km east of the country's capital Kabul. The governor escaped the attack as he was sitting in an armored vehicle. The statement blamed enemies of peace, referring to the Taliban militant group, for the attack. However, the militant group has yet to make comments. Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation Abdullah Abdullah strongly condemned the attack. Violence lingers in the war-torn country even as peace talks between the Afghan government delegation and Taliban representatives are being held in Doha, capital of the Gulf state of Qatar. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 18:45:35|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close VIENTIANE, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- A new transmission line firm that Lao and Chinese enterprises have jointly agreed to establish is expected to maximize Laos' electricity generation potential. Lao state-owned Electricite du Laos (EDL) and China Southern Power Grid (CSG) signed the shareholders' agreement in Lao capital Vientiane in September to jointly establish Electricite du Laos Transmission Company Limited (EDLT). With EDLT's plan to install 230kV high-voltage transmission lines, the grid, once operational, will be capable of transmitting larger volumes of power, thereby enabling large hydropower plants to increase their generation. The current lower voltage grid with limited transmission capability has prevented larger power plants from running at full production potential, especially during the rainy season. "Some large hydropower plants couldn't run at full capacity due to limited transmission capacity. We just release water downstream wastefully," local daily Vientiane Times on Monday quoted Deputy Minister of Energy and Mines Daovong Phonekeo as saying. Minister of Energy and Mines Khammany Inthilath said in the signing ceremony for the joint venture company that EDLT was significant in implementing Laos' strategic plan on electricity system development, noting it would maximize production potential and reduce production costs. Currently, there are 78 hydropower plants with a combined installed capacity of 9,972 MW in operation, which greatly exceeds domestic consumption needs. In addition to the 78 hydropower plants, there are also a coal-fired power plant, four biomass projects and six solar power projects in Laos. Enditem Labour is demanding an apology after a health minister compared the UK governments response to Covid-19 to the staging of the Olympics and said it could be extremely proud of how it had done. Lord Bethell admitted that the government had struggled to get lists of care homes during the early stages of the crisis and was caught on the hop by the surge in demand for coronavirus tests when schools went back at the start of September. But he said that some outstanding elements of the response had not been fully appreciated. Shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth branded the remarks tasteless and offensive. We have witnessed a level of suffering from this virus that was incomprehensible at the start of the year, said Mr Ashworth. For a health minister to suggest we will look back with pride and compare it to a time of national celebration is tasteless and offensive. He should apologise. UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 21 January 2022 Willesborough Windmill, a white smock mill built in 1869 is bathed in the morning sunshine as the moon sets behind in Ashford, Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 January 2022 A jet skier jumps the waves off the coast at Blyth in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 19 January 2022 Britains Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, participate in a therapy session with individuals who have experienced the care system, during a visit to the Foundling Museum in London REUTERS UK news in pictures 18 January 2022 Surfers enter the sea as the sun rises over Tynemouth on the North East coast PA UK news in pictures 17 January 2022 Bonhams Danny McIlwraith holds a Nigerian polycrome carved wood mask during a photocall for the sale of the Jim Lennon Collection at Bonhams in Edinburgh PA UK news in pictures 16 January 2022 The moon rises above the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth, Hampshire PA UK news in pictures 15 January 2022 Demonstrators outside Downing Street during a Kill The Bill protest against The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill in London PA UK news in pictures 14 January 2022 Ecologist Emma Smart (left) and retired GP Dr Diana Warner outside HMP Bronzefield, in Surrey, following their release from the prison where Emma undertook a 26-day hunger strike during her incarceration. Ms Smart was sentenced in November, along with other members of Insulate Britain, to serve four months for breaking a High Court injunction by taking part in a blockade at junction 25 of the M25 motorway during the morning rush hour on 8 October last year PA UK news in pictures 13 January 2022 A TV presenter holds a copy of a newspaper outside 10 Downing Streetafter the Prime Minister apologised for attending a gathering of colleagues in the Number Ten garden in May 2020, while the UK was in strict lockdown due to the Coronavirus pandemic Getty UK news in pictures 12 January 2022 Fitness guru Derrick Evans after receiving an MBE during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 11 January 2022 A couple walk underneath an umbrella during wet weather on Westminster Bridge in central London PA UK news in pictures 10 January 2022 A jogger passes the Covid Memorial Wall in London AP UK news in pictures 9 January 2021 The sun rises over horses at Seaton Sluice in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 8 January 2022 Riders compete during the Veterans Men's race at the UK Cyclo-Cross National Championships 2022 in Ardingly, south of London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 7 January 2022 A dog looks out of a car window at the wintry conditions in Killeshin, Co. Laois PA UK news in pictures 6 January 2022 People walk through frost and mist alongside a frozen lake during sunrise in Bushy Park, London REUTERS UK news in pictures 5 January 2022 A skier jumps on the slopes at Allenheads in the Pennines to the north of Weardale in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 4 January 2022 Freshly-fallen snow covers houses in Corbridge, near Hexham in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 3 January 2022 Dean Morrison, 13, receives his Covid-19 vaccine from student nurse Anthony McLaughlin during a vaccination clinic at the Glasgow Central Mosque PA UK news in pictures 2 January 2022 Konastantinos Tsimikas of Liverpool with Chelseas Mason Mount during the Premier League match at Stamfrod Bridge Liverpool FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 January 2022 New Years Eve Lasers, drones and fireworks illuminate the sky in front of the Royal Naval College in Greenwich shortly after midnight in London EPA UK news in pictures 31 December 2021 Competitors in fancy dress run across the Pennine tops near Haworth, West Yorkshire, in the annual Auld Lang Syne Fell race which attracts hundreds of runners every year PA UK news in pictures 30 December 2021 Sunrise at Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland PA UK news in pictures 29 December 2021 The Very Revd Dr Robert Willis, Dean of Canterbury Cathedral, looks at Becket, a six month old red-billed chough as he visits Wildwood Wildlife Park in Kent on the anniversary of the murder of Thomas Becket PA UK news in pictures 28 December 2021 Troops of the Household Cavalry are seen reflected in a puddle during the changing of the Queens Life Guard, on Horse Guards Parade, in central London PA UK news in pictures 27 December 2021 A pedestrian walks past a winter sale sign outside a John Lewis store on Oxford street in London Getty UK news in pictures 26 December 2021 Riders take their bikes through the snow near Castleside, County Durham PA UK news in pictures 25 December 2021 Patrick Corkery wears a santa hat and beard as waves crash over him at Forty Foot near Dublin during a Christmas Day dip PA UK news in pictures 24 December 2021 People stand inside Kings Cross Station on Christmas Eve in London Reuters UK news in pictures 23 December 2021 Christmas shoppers fill the car park at Fosse Shopping Park in Leicester PA UK news in pictures 22 December 2021 The sun rises behind the stones as people gather for the winter solstice at Stonehenge. Getty UK news in pictures 21 December 2021 People take part in a winter solstice swim at Portobello Beach in Edinburgh to mark the solstice and to witness the dawn after the longest night of the year PA UK news in pictures 20 December 2021 An auction employee displays poultry to buyers and sellers attending the Christmas Poultry Sale at York Auction Centre in Murton PA UK news in pictures 19 December 2021 Joao Moutinho of Wolverhampton Wanderers looks on during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Chelsea at Molineux Getty Images UK news in pictures 18 December 2021 Freight lorries queuing at the port of Dover in Kent PA UK news in pictures 17 December 2021 Newly elected Liberal Democrat MP Helen Morgan, bursts 'Boris' bubble' held by colleague Tim Farron, as she celebrates following her victory in the North Shropshire by-election PA UK news in pictures 16 December 2021 Brussels sprouts are harvested by workers as they prepare for the busy Christmas period near Boston in Lincolnshire PA UK news in pictures 15 December 2021 Lewis Hamilton is made a Knight Bachelor by the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 14 December 2021 The Royal Liver Buildings surrounded by early morning fog in Liverpool PA UK news in pictures 13 December 2021 People queue outside a walk-in Covid-19 vaccination centre at St Thomas's Hospital in Westminster Getty Images UK news in pictures 12 December 2021 People take part in the Big Leeds Santa Dash in Roundhay Park, Leeds PA UK news in pictures 11 December 2021 People arrive at a Covid-19 vaccination centre at Elland Road in Leeds, PA UK news in pictures 10 December 2021 Stella Moris speaks to the media after the US Government won its High Court bid to overturn a judges decision not to extradite WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange PA UK news in pictures 9 December 2021 Camels are lead around Salisbury Cathedral during a rehearsal for the Christmas Eve Service PA UK news in pictures 8 December 2021 Margaret Keenan and Nurse May Parsons, a year after Margaret was the first person in the UK to receive the Pfizer vaccine PA UK news in pictures 7 December 2021 Snowfall in Leadhills, South Lanarkshire as Storm Barra hits the UK with disruptive winds, heavy rain and snow PA UK news in pictures 6 December 2021 A person tries to avoid sea spray on New Brighton promenade in Wallasey as the UK readies for the arrival of Storm Barra Getty UK news in pictures 5 December 2021 People release balloons during a tribute to six-year-old Arthur Labinjo-Hughes outside Emma Tustin's former address in Solihull, West Midlands, where he was murdered by his stepmother PA UK news in pictures 4 December 2021 People walk through a Christmas market in Trafalgar Square Reuters UK news in pictures 3 December 2021 A pedestrian carries a dog as they dodge shoppers on Oxford Street in central London AFP/Getty The peer was asked at a fringe event at the Conservative Partys virtual conference where he thought the UK would rank in the world in terms of its response to the pandemic. In his answer, he drew a comparison to the preparations made for the London 2012 Olympic Games and this years efforts to tackle the deadly virus. I think there have been some outstanding pieces of delivery that have not been fully appreciated, he told the event, hosted by the Centre for Policy Studies. And I think it will be like the Olympics, thats when its all over and we look back and reflect, we will actually be extremely proud of ourselves. According to the World Health Organisation, the UK ranks fifth in the global table for most deaths, with 42,317, behind the US, Brazil, India and Mexico. It is currently seventh in the world in terms of deaths per 100,000 population, according to analysis by Johns Hopkins University. Earlier, Lord Bethell admitted the government struggled to get hold of a list of all the care homes in the UK earlier on in the crisis. His admission came as a scathing report by Amnesty International said that a series of shockingly irresponsible decisions by government had violated the rights to live, health and non-discrimination of thousands of care home residents in England. Lord Bethell also revealed the government failed to anticipate a surge in demand for Covid-19 tests when children returned to schools en masse in September. I think that the return to schools did catch us on the hop and there was a very understandable concern by both schools and then parents about getting kids tested, he said. That has settled down dramatically and were very determined to keep the schools open. But schools and parents, I think, have got the message and were now prioritising tests much more clearly. The Tory peer hit the headlines last month when he suggested that students returning to university might spread coronavirus in their bedrooms. Later, Lord Bethell outlined how a theoretical pregnancy test type device might be used to determine if you have Covid-19 on a daily basis to allow you to go about your day. He said: If you brush your teeth and take a test first thing in the morning and its negative youve got a pretty good chance and were trying to develop the science around this of not being positive today or tomorrow. And that means that youre enabled and I think enabled is the key word here to perhaps go to the pub, go to the theatre, to go to things where social distancing is problematic. Even if the test isnt 100 per cent, if it dramatically reduces the chain of transmission then it will have a huge impact. Additional reporting by Press Association SOCIALITE and musician Mai Titi on Friday pleaded with the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service to accord her time to experience life in a prison cell. Mai Titi said this after hearing challenges being faced by expecting and nursing mothers serving their sentences at Chikurubi Female Prison where she donated sanitary ware, face towels, toilet paper, bathing and washing soaps. Mai Titi, real name Felistas Murata, said she learnt from some of the inmates that most of their offences were crimes of passion. Ignorance is not a defence when one commits an offense and today I realised that some of you were overcame by anger, said Mai Titi. I could have been behind bars had it not been the power of self-control and love that held me from fighting the father of my children. Although I still enjoy the freedom from committing crimes I want ZPCS authorities give an opportunity to experience prison life just for three days vozondiendesa kumba zvavo. Ndirikuda kumborara mu cell nekuti matambudziko andaudzwa nemadzimai arimuhusungwa pamwechete nevana vavo vasina kupara mhosva andibaya pamwoyo wangu. How can innocent children undergo hard times along with wrong doers who committed crimes in anger and these are crimes of passion? Incarcerated women are our relatives they deserve to be treated like humans and I want to thank ZPCS for giving artistes time to interact and entertain inmates. After giving my ear to some of the inmates I came to realize the aspect of rehabilitation of offenders and the need to correct convicted people. We are not here to celebrate with offenders or supporting crime but to give them hope and fulfil Gods plan on evil doers and commanded us to visit those in captives. Vakasungwa nengetani pamwechete nemweya yakavaparisa mhosva vanoda kusunungurwa panyama nepamweya uyo kuratidzwa rudo nesu nekuti tose tirivatadzi, said Mai Titi. She described abusive husbands as Chikurubi saying most women are being mistreated silently in their homes like in hell. Mai Titi described prisons as schools where failures are given opportunity to correct their mistakes and never repeat them upon release. H Metro Dan Kohr decided to quit school at Deer Lodge High School and join the Army in 1968 because he was tired of people telling me what to do. Maybe I should have thought that through, he says now with a chuckle. No worries. It turned out to be a great decision that led to a distinguished military career. The kid who grew up helping out in his Dads mine in Garnet soon found himself in basic training at Fort Lewis, Washington. There, he said, one of the best things that ever happened to me occurred. He was on KP duty one day when a senior drill instructor said to him, If you dont want to be on KP for the rest of your time here, go over and see about getting your GED. So he did. After basic training, he stayed at Lewis for advanced individual infantry training. His first set of orders sent him to Germany with the 8th Infantry Division, the Automatic 8. There, he volunteered for duty in Vietnam. Kohrs brother Glenn had served in the Air Force, including a stretch in Vietnam during the Tet Offensive. Before Kohr shipped out to Asia, he went home on leave because his wife was about to give birth to their daughter, and he got to see his brother, who couldnt believe Kohr had put in papers for Vietnam. We had a heated discussion, Kohr remembers. I told him, It just doesnt feel right not to go. So Kohr shipped out to Vietnam. At the repo depot or replacement training area at Cam Ranh Bay, the young rifleman was assigned to the Fourth Infantry Division, based near Pleiku in the Central Highlands. Shortly after his arrival, Kohr was shaken when he saw a newspaper report about the death of his friend Dan Stembridge, a soldier from Anaconda who was in his basic training squad at Fort Lewis. Stembridge, a sergeant in the 503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade, was killed in combat July 19, 1969 in Binh Dinh, Vietnam. You think youre going to be killed every 20 minutes for the first 30 to 45 days in country, Kohr remembers. Everything is pretty new and it takes some time to adjust. Then you look around and say, What the heck, Im still alive. Then its not until you get to be a short-timer that you get pretty nervous again. The central highlands were unlike anything hed seen before, Kohr remembers. There are mountains, but everything is thick jungle. Then, youd find places where theyd used Agent Orange (a defoliant used by U.S. forces to clear jungle vegetation, later found to be responsible for many illnesses among those who served in Vietnam) and it would look like the Nevada desert. In early 1970, some Army units from Camp Enari near Pleiku including Kohrs were sent to fight in Cambodia. I didnt get hurt but I got sicker than hell, Kohr remembers. It was probably heat stroke. Later that year Enari would be turned over to the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. Kohrs division moved to Kon Tun, closer to the border with North Vietnam, and one of his duties was providing security for Army convoys in the area. He had volunteered to drive a truck, because he knew how to. Soon, he was put on mine-clearing duty he would back his truck over a stretch of road, on the theory that the back of the truck would take the brunt of a mine explosion, not the front where he was. In late 1970, Kohr left Vietnam. Shortly afterward, he left active duty as an E-5, and came home. Early the next year, he went to work for the Anaconda Copper Mining Company at the Anaconda smelter. But that was short-lived. In July of 1971, workers at the company went on strike. It wasnt long before Kohr realized that in order to support his family, he should probably return to active duty. He reenlisted in Feb. 1972, preserving his E5 rank all he had lost was time in grade and was stationed in Hawaii with the 25th Infantry Division. Then, he was sent to Fort Ord in California as an instructor. There, he was one of the very first soldiers assigned to the 7th Infantry Division when it was reactivated, and he was promoted to Staff Sergeant. In the years 1966 and 1967, he was stationed in Korea with the 2nd Infantry Division, where he was assigned to artillery maintenance. In November 1978, then serving with the 9th Infantry Division, he left active duty once again, discharged as an E-6. Kohr returned to Butte, starting as the owner-operator of an over-the-road trucking business. But the Army wasnt finished with him, or he wasnt finished with it. In 1980, when the smelter closed and the southwest Montana economy was in tatters, Kohr decided to reenlist again. He was sent back to Fort Lewis with Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 9th Infantry Division Artillery, but this time he suffered a loss of rank, reentering as an E-5. That didnt last long; soon he earned back his Staff Sergeant rocker, and then, in August 1982, he received a direct appointment as a Warrant Officer. He was sent to Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, where he attended an automotive technician school. He was an honor graduate, in the top three in his class. Next, Kohr was sent back to Germany with the 11th Aviation Battalion, responsible for overseeing maintenance operations. It meant lots of time in helicopters, as some of the maintenance sites in the field were several hours from base. Receiving word that his mother was terminally ill, Kohr requested and received emergency leave. He returned to Butte, where he worked for awhile at the Military Entrance Processing Station, spending much of his time composing a counterterrorism plan. After his mother passed away, he and his family moved back to Fort Lewis, where he received a promotion to Chief Warrant Officer 2. Back at Aberdeen, he went to Field Artillery Vehicle automotive technician school, this time graduating first in his class. After another tour of duty in Germany, with the First Armored Division Artillery, he was reassigned to the First Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas in September 1990 and was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer 3. Then, more than two decades after the first time he did it, Kohr went to war. His division was deployed to Saudi Arabia for Operation Desert Shield in mid-December 1990. The logistical effort was mind-boggling. Back in Vietnam, when he was providing convoy security, Kohr was used to convoys of perhaps 25 vehicles. In Desert Shield, convoys were frequently 20 miles long. It was like taking the entire town of Butte and putting it in the desert, with all the needed food, drinking water and supplies, he said. He recalls Christmas Eve 1990, with eight of his squad members gathered around a little camp stove making coffee. Its Christmas Eve in Saudi Arabia, and theres not a wise man to be seen anywhere, he told his buddies. Once the unit was connected with its equipment, he was assigned to division support command, being the senior maintenance personnel there. His unit pushed deeper into the desert, crossing into Iraq. I took a shower in December and the next one I got was in April, he said with a dry grin. He remembers ending up on a road overlooking the Tigris River. There had been a major tank battle, and in a 10x20-mile area, there were blown-up tanks everywhere you looked. In January, Operation Desert Storm began. At one point, he and another CWO3 were tasked with finding replacement parts for a combat engineer vehicle, built on an M60 tank chassis. That required liaison with Marines, who were using the M60s. He and the other warrant officer got into the same vehicle (He was supposed to be the guy who replaced me if anything happened to me, and here he and I were in the same vehicle, didnt make much sense, Kohr observed) and traversed the so-called Highway of Death, Highway 80 from Safwan, Iraq, to Kuwait City. Allied forces had attacked Iraqi forces attempting to flee in February 1991, resulting in the destruction of some 2,000 vehicles. Kohr and his fellow officer drove through a tunnel made of abandoned wrecked vehicles, stacked up three or four high on each side of the road. Thick oil smoke from blown wells was choking, and they had to keep the wipers on to keep it from fouling the windshield, but they made it. He remembers 50-ton vehicles driving past him in the dark, refueling and reloading with ammunition at a forward area refueling point. It was May 1991 when his division finally redeployed to Fort Riley. He was awarded the Bronze Star and a second meritorious service medal, and in September 1991, retired, this time for good. Back in Butte, he graduated from Montana Tech in February 1997, and he went to to work for the Department of Corrections, where he was production manager for the vehicle maintenance department at the Montana State Prison at Deer Lodge, retiring in 2016. Hes been very active in military affairs since his retirement. Hes a life member of VFW Post 1448, and is currently serving as Post Commander. Hes 1st Vice Commander of the United Veterans Council of Butte Silver Bow. Hes a volunteer van driver for the Disabled American Veterans, having logged probably 15,000 miles driving veterans to medical and other appointments. And he serves as a member of the UVCs Honor Guard. I met some of the greatest people in the world in the Army, Kohr said. I definitely had interesting times. Most people, I think, dont ever understand what its like to serve in the military, even in peacetime. Love 6 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 1 Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Sweets that put 13 teenage girls in hospital contained cannabis, police have revealed, as they investigate an incident that sparked panic at a North London Catholic school. Paramedics descended on La Sainte Union Catholic School in Highgate, Camden, at 11.44am on Monday, amid claims students had fallen ill after eating sweets during their morning break. This evening Scotland Yard has confirmed the sweets contained THC - the active component in cannabis. A statement released by Met Police officers in Camden read: 'We understand the sweets contained THC. 'We await tests to establish the quantity of THC in each sweet. 'While we await a full update from hospital, nobody is seriously unwell. There has been no arrest; enquiries continue.' Some of the girls are thought to have spent the night at a hospital in Barnet, with the school asking parents to obtain a 'written statement,' on how the drug-laced sweets were brought into school. Pictures show a row of ambulances and first responder vehicles parked outside the school - police have confirmed paramedics were treating pupils who had eaten sweets laced with cannabis A London Ambulance Service spokesman said: 'We were called at 11.44am today to reports of an incident at La Sainte Union Catholic School, Highgate' The girls are thought to have headed back to class, where they reported feeling dizzy, while some vomited. Pictures show a row of ambulances and first responder vehicles parked outside the main building opposite Hampstead Heath. One witness told MailOnline they saw 'girls outside the ambulances crying and one throwing up'. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive element of cannabis that causes a high, it is illegal to sell items containing THC in the UK, while cannabidiol (CBD) is legal to sell and is available on the high street as a health treatment. In a letter seen by the MailOnline, headteacher Sophie Fegan wrote: 'We are working with the police to identify the origin of the "sweets". 'Once your daughter has recovered, I will need her to tell us how she came into possession of the "sweets" and what she thought they were. Police in Camden are carrying out tests to see how much THC was placed in each of the sweets 'I am sure you will be asking her these questions too: it would be most helpful if you would ask your daughter to prepare a written statement for me. 'We already know the name of the student who brought the sweets in, but we need to know more about how and why they were shared.' The pupils were treated at the scene after suffering from a 'sugar rush' and taken to hospital but police said none are believed to be 'seriously unwell'. A spokesman for the school said the contents of what the students ate are being investigated. He said: 'A small number of our students have been taken to hospital today after becoming ill. 'The students became ill after eating what they believed were sweets. The contents of what the students ate and how they came into possession of them is being investigated by the police. 'We have made parents aware of this incident.' A police spokesman said: 'Police were called by London Ambulance Service at around 1145hrs on Monday, 5 October, to reports of children feeling unwell having eaten what they believed to be sweets at a school in Highgate Road, NW5. 'As a precaution, 13 children have been taken to hospital. Their parents have been informed.' Police had earlier confirmed that the school did not need to be evacuated as a result of the incident. A London Ambulance Service spokesman said: 'We were called at 11.44am today to reports of an incident at La Sainte Union Catholic School, Highgate. 'We dispatched a number of resources including a clinical team leader, five ambulance crews, medics in cars and incident response officers.' 'We assessed thirteen teenagers at the scene and took them to hospital.' The 159-year-old school, which counts singer Tulisa and Harry Potter actress Imelda Staunton among its alumni, has been approached for comment. Headmistress Sophie Fegan is expected to hold a special assembly at the school tomorrow to discuss the incident. The school's mission statement reads: 'We are a Catholic school and we strive to provide a caring, secure environment in which girls realise their full potential. 'When a girl joins LSU, she and her family join a strong community of pupils, parents, governors and staff. Paramedics were at La Sainte Union Catholic School in Highgate, Camden, at 11.44am 'We seek to ensure pupils feel a sense of belonging and a deep commitment to our central values of service, courage, and justice. 'The school focuses on educating the whole person, academically, socially, spiritually and morally through a curriculum centred on the needs and aspirations of all pupils.' La Sainte Union, which has 1,032 students aged 11 to 18, was rated 'good' in a 2019 Ofsted report. U.S. President Donald Trump arrives at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., on the Marine One helicopter on Oct. 2, 2020. (Jacquelyn Martin/AP Photo) Trump Orders Declassification of Long-Withheld Spy Records President Donald Trump has directed White House chief of staff Mark Meadows to begin the process of declassifying more documents tied to the Obama administrations investigation and spying on the Trump 2016 presidential campaign. Hes already tasked me with getting some declassification rolling, in a follow up to some of the requests that Devin Nunes and others have made, Meadows told Fox and Friends on Oct. 5, referring to House Intelligence Committee ranking member Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) The shows hosts didnt ask Meadows for details, but the mention of Nunes suggests that part of the declassification may deal with documents the California Republican brought up during an interview on Oct. 4. Nunes told Fox News Sunday Morning Futures host Maria Bartiromo that hes looking to declassify two more summaries of the FBI interviews of Igor Danchenko, the primary source of the infamous Steele dossier. A Washington-based Russian national, Danchenko was once suspected of being a spy for Moscow and investigated by the FBI, according to documents released by Attorney General William Barr last month. The summary of the FBIs first interview with Danchenko revealed that Christopher Steele, the author of the Steele dossier, amplified rumors from Danchenko and presented them as serious claims in the dossier. The interview summary also revealed that Danchenko wasnt a highly placed Kremlin source, but instead a run-of-the-mill Washington analyst who sourced his information from childhood acquaintances. The American public needs to see the three reports that we know about at least from the Democrats Russian spy that they hired, Nunes said. The congressman also referred to more classified documents tied to the information released last week by Director of National Intelligence (DNI) John Ratcliffe. In a letter (pdf) to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Ratcliffe disclosed that the CIA in late July 2016 came into possession of a Russian intelligence analysis that claimed that Hillary Clinton approved a plot on July 26, 2016, to dirty up the Trump campaign by insinuating a link between the Trump campaign and Russia in connection with the alleged hacking of the Democratic National Committee. The plan was meant to distract the public from the Clinton email scandal, according to the intelligence. The Clinton campaign created this sick fantasy. Then, they went out and hired avatars to do it, Nunes said. The documents that are underlying that we now have seenIve only seen a few of thosetheyre definitely smoking guns. That information definitely needs to be made available to the American public. And from what I understand there is even more underlying evidence that backs up what Director Ratcliffe put out, he added. Nunes underlined how long it took to get the government to release some of the documents. He and his colleagues have been pushing for the information since early 2017. We want every damn bit of evidence that every intelligence agency has or its maybe time to shut those agencies down, because at the end of the day our liberties are more important than anything else we have in this country and they have been stampeded over by these dirty cops and the Democratic Party and the media who fails to report on it, Nunes said. CIA Director John Brennan personally briefed President Barack Obama in July 2016 about the Clinton intelligence, according to Ratcliffe, who cited notes taken by Brennan. The intelligence was also passed on as an investigative referral to then-FBI Director James Comey and special agent Peter Strzok. In testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Comey claimed to not remember receiving the referral. The remarks by Meadows didnt limit the declassification request to what Nunes said on Oct. 4. Over the years, Nunes has sought a large number of documents related to the origins of Crossfire Hurricane, the FBIs codename for the investigation of the Trump campaign, and the conduct of its investigators. Meadowss reference to others may include document requests from Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.), and Graham, among others. The Obama-era FBI used a range of government surveillance tools in 2016 and 2017 to target Trump campaign associates as part of the Crossfire Hurricane probe. The bureau used Steeles dossier, without verifying it, to obtain a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) warrant to spy on former Trump campaign adviser Carter Page. The Clinton campaign was Steeles ultimate client, a fact the FBI failed to disclose to the secret surveillance court. One of the officials involved in obtaining the FISA warrant on Page pleaded guilty in August to a false statement charge. FBI attorney Kevin Clinesmith admitted to forging an email to falsely convey that Page hadnt been a source for the CIA, even though the CIA had advised the bureau that the opposite was true. Mr. King offered a lengthy defense during the hearing, arguing that he was targeted by investigators for political reasons and because he is a Black man. He said the Council had never expelled someone for behavior that was not a crime. I ask us not to be the Council that does that, Mr. King said. Mr. King filed a lawsuit against the city in federal court on Monday afternoon, claiming race discrimination and arguing that his expulsion was arbitrary and capricious. The Councils decision was of unprecedented severity in comparison to similarly situated Council members who have also not been convicted of a criminal offense, the complaint said. Mr. Kings lawyer, Joey Jackson, said at a news conference on Friday that investigators were out to get Mr. King, ignoring what he said was a history of good deeds for his Bronx constituents. It was always an assassination a character assassination against a councilman who stands up for his community, Mr. Jackson said of the investigation. A two-thirds vote is required to expel a City Council member, something that has not happened since the City Charter was revised in 1989. Mr. Johnsons office said it believed the expulsion was the first decided by a Council vote in the citys history. Other members have been automatically ousted when they were convicted of criminal charges. Mr. King faced four charges in the latest Council investigation: harassment and discrimination, conflicts of interest, disorderly conduct and violating rules the Council had set for him. When a staff member told Mr. King in September 2017 that she needed to go to the emergency room for menstrual bleeding, Mr. King made the Band-Aid comment and laughed, according to a 68-page report by the ethics committee. HOUSTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Mark Lanier, founder of The Lanier Law Firm, has been recognized as one of the "Top 100 Trial Lawyers in America" in the Benchmark Litigation guide to the nation's finest litigators. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Mr. Lanier has been honored by the publication for his commercial litigation practice as well as his success in the area of toxic tort litigation. The 2020 edition of Benchmark Litigation was compiled after months of peer review, client-based research and a review of attorney casework. Cumulatively, Mr. Lanier has garnered nearly $20 billion in verdicts during his highly acclaimed career. In 2018, he led a trial team that won a record $4.69 billion verdict from Johnson & Johnson, with jurors finding the company failed to warn consumers for decades that cancer-causing asbestos had been detected in the company's talc-based baby powders. That verdict followed the firm's success in three federal jury trials where a total of nearly $2 billion was awarded against J&J and its Pinnacle division based on claims from multiple people who suffered serious medical complications caused by the company's defective hip implant devices. The prestigious Benchmark selection is just the latest honor for Mr. Lanier. Earlier this year, he was one of only 18 attorneys named to the top tier of trial lawyers in the nation by the elite Chambers USA legal directory, and for the 11th consecutive year was named among the nation's top 500 attorneys by Lawdragon. In addition, Mr. Lanier has been named as one of the Most Influential Attorneys of the Decade by the National Law Journal; as one of the 25 Greatest Lawyers of the Past Quarter Century by Texas Lawyer; and is a recipient of the American Association of Justice's Lifetime Achievement Award. About the Lanier Law Firm For more than 30 years, the men and women at the Lanier Law Firm have worked tirelessly, throughout the United States, to find unique and effective solutions for their clients. More than 60 skilled attorneys practice law in a broad array of areas, including business litigation, pharmaceutical litigation, asbestos exposure, oil and gas litigation, personal injury as well as defective and dangerous products, among others. Named an Elite Trial Law Firm by The National Law Journal, the Lanier Law Firm has offices in Houston, New York and Los Angeles. Media Contact: J.D. Cargill 713-659-5200 [email protected] SOURCE The Lanier Law Firm Related Links http://www.lanierlawfirm.com On the morning of October 5, four blasts were heard outside Stepanakert, the capital of unrecognized Republic of Artsakh. According to the reports by ANI, on hearing the explosion sound, the local residents hid in a basement. A conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan in the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region started during late September. Read: Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: Russia, Armenia Discuss Situation Amid Tensions Over Phone Tensions increase at Nagorno-Karabakh The new conflict began on September 27 and is being considered to be the heaviest in decades. Hundreds of people have been killed in the past week, including over 40 civilians. The fight between the two countries has raised international concern about stability in the South Caucasus, where pipelines carry Azeri oil and gas to world markets. There have also been fears of the clashes expanding into a multi-front war. While Ankara is Azerbaijans strongest supporter, Moscow, on the other hand, has a military base in Armenia. Read: Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: Azerbaijan Says No End To Fight Until Armenia Withdraws Troops On October 4, Azerbaijans President, Ilham Aliyev said that the country will not cease military action until Armenia withdraws its troops from the disputed region. The two former Soviet republics have been locked in a simmering conflict for decades over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which is an ethnic Armenian enclave with Azerbaijan. Aliyev said, Azerbaijan has one condition, and that is the liberation of its territories. Nagorno-Karabakh is the territory of Azerbaijan. We must return and we shall return. My condition is the following: let them withdraw their troops, and the confrontation will be stopped, but this should not be in words, but in deeds. Read: Nagorno-Karabakh Crisis: Canada Probing Alleged Use Of Canadian Technology By Azeri Forces Also Read: Armenia Detains Foreign Citizens On Suspicion Of Espionage Amid Tensions With Azerbaijan (Image Credits: @AzerbaijanMOD/Twitter) Pandemic has been all about webinars and online meetings and Zoom has been a major saviour during the lockdown. However, with the boon of technology comes the need of being extra-careful while using these tech-savvy tools. A former labor minister underwent extreme embarrassment recently after passing a derogatory comment at a mayor while not realising that his microphone was not on mute. Alan Smith, former leader of the Labour administration in Allerdale, Cumbria, UK called Mayor Hillary Harrington a daft cow during a meeting over Zoom. Mrs Harrington was reportedly facing some technical glitches ahead of the mocking remark and she wanted to adjourn the meeting and have a word with the council head. It was right then, when Smith can be heard saying, Shes right beside you, you daft cow, reports Daily Mail. Immediately after realising that he had forgotten to unmute himself, Smiths face became full of panic and anxiety. Smith was heavily slammed by his fellow council members, for making his derogatory comments. He later came out to apologise to Harrington. Although Harrington had accepted his apology, she also remarked that ones not supposed to pass such disgraceful comments whether muted or not. In yet another case of a Zoom meeting gone awry, a government official in the Philippines was caught having sex with his secretary during a regular virtual session. The incident had come to light as the official, Captain Jesus Estil of the Fatima Dos village council in the province of Cavite, appeared to be unaware that his camera was on. Footage shows that the person had sex in a far corner of the room while the meeting was on. Before engaging in the actual act, Estil approached the device in what appeared to be an attempt to turn off the camera. Unaware that the camera was on, Estil and the woman continued to engage in sexual intercourse, while other participants continued with the council meeting. Estil rejoined the call after the act. Your browser does not support the video tag. Rath Mhuire & Dolmen Services Ltd, Granard is to receive 9,706 worth of funding under the Covid-19 Stability Fund. The funding, the fourth tranche under the Covid-19 Stability Fund, was announced on Monday by Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Joe OBrien TD. The funding from the Dormant Accounts Fund is designed to support community and voluntary organisations, charities and social enterprises that are experiencing financial difficulties as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Once-off cash injections of between 2,000 and 200,000 are being awarded to qualifying organisations that provide critical services to those most vulnerable in society. This will help with short term cash flow issues caused by Covid-19. Minister OBrien said: I am very happy to join with my colleagues at the Department of Health to announce a further tranche of funding under the COVID 19 Stability fund to Community and Voluntary organisations and Social Enterprises that are experiencing financial difficulties at this time. My Government colleagues and myself acknowledge and appreciate the work that these organisations do in their communities and I hope that this funding will go some way to support the continuation of their valuable services. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank sincerely all community and voluntary organisations for the work they have done throughout this difficult period to support and provide valuable services to the most disadvantaged in our communities. Their work remains a very important part of getting Ireland through this pandemic and Government recognises and is grateful for that contribution. PARIS, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Eurazeo is a leading global investment company with more than 18.5 billion in assets under management and provides investors with valuable access to investment strategies diversified across asset classes, industry sectors and geographies. Currently, 65% of these assets are directly invested in companies' equity or real assets. Similarly, the Group's activities in private debt and secondary transactions make it a European leader in these areas and have seen steady growth for several years. Underscoring the appeal of its investment strategies to investors, Eurazeo reached new heights with its fundraising bringing in 2.4 billion in 2019. Following a robust first half of this year, with 1.2 billion raised in unfavourable and uncertain market conditions, Eurazeo expects to build on this momentum over the remainder of the year, driven in particular by the success of the Eurazeo Growth III fund. This performance is not only the result of the renewed commitment and confidence of the Group's long-standing institutional investor partners, but is also driven by Eurazeo's increasing ability to attract new international partners. In line with this growth trajectory and in order to offer investors services of the highest standards, Eurazeo today announced that it is strengthening its function dedicated to institutional investors and wealth management structures by bringing together the veteran management teams of Eurazeo and Idinvest. The Group's teams who focus on maintaining and developing these relationships, are staffed by some 30 investment professionals. They are divided by specialisation, for each geographic region and type of investor (sovereign wealth funds, pension funds, insurance companies, wealth managers, strategic industrial partners, etc.) and cover all market segments seeing rapid growth (venture capital, growth equity, private debt, asset-backed securities, secondary transactions, funds of funds, real assets, and small and mid-cap buyouts). Under the leadership of Christophe Baviere, appointed as Senior Managing Partner of Eurazeo and Head of Investment Partners, these teams will work to consolidate the Group's leading position among French investors, increase its market share among international investors, particularly in the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, and further diversify its client portfolio: from retail investors to large sovereign wealth funds, insurance companies and international pension funds. By strengthening its ability to offer its investors the best possible service, Eurazeo is intensifying the execution of its growth strategy across all its activities, building on its capacity to generate predictable and recurring revenue over the long term, consolidating its international business network to an even greater degree, and reaffirming its ambition to become the benchmark player among investment platforms in Europe. Christophe Baviere, Senior Managing Partner of Eurazeo, said: I am very happy with these responsibilities, which confirm the ambitions of our Group. We serve our clients with a range of funds as well as dedicated investment solutions. We also offer them targeted and diversified investment vehicles, which go hand in hand with a robust approach to managing ESG factors. About Eurazeo Eurazeo is a leading global investment company, with a diversified portfolio of 18.5 billion in assets under management, including 12.9 billion from third parties, invested in over 430 companies. With its considerable private equity, real estate and private debt expertise, Eurazeo accompanies companies of all sizes, supporting their development through the commitment of its nearly 300 professionals and by offering in-depth sector expertise, a gateway to global markets, and a responsible and stable foothold for transformational growth. Its solid institutional and family shareholder base, robust financial structure free of structural debt, and flexible investment horizon enable Eurazeo to support its companies over the long term. Eurazeo has offices in Paris , New York , Sao Paulo, Seoul , Shanghai , London , Luxembourg , Frankfurt , Berlin and Madrid . , , Sao Paulo, , , , , , and . Eurazeo is listed on Euronext Paris. ISIN: FR0000121121 - Bloomberg: RF FP - Reuters: EURA.PA EURAZEO CONTACTS PRESS CONTACT PIERRE BERNARDIN VIRGINIE CHRISTNACHT EDELMAN HEAD OF INVESTOR RELATIONS HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS Alexandra Douglass Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] mail: [email protected] Tel: +33 (0)1 44 15 16 76 Tel: +33 (0)1 44 15 76 44 Tel: +1 917 244 2908 SOURCE Eurazeo VIRGINIA BEACH, Va., Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc. (NYSE: AHH) today announced that it has completed the previously disclosed acquisition of the Edison Apartments in Richmond, Virginia for $25 million, including the assumption of debt and the issuance of Operating Partnership Units. Originally built in 1919 as the headquarters for the Virginia Electric and Power Company and subsequently renovated and repurposed in 2014, the historic Edison offers 174 contemporary apartment units located in downtown Richmond within blocks of the Virginia State Capitol, as well as the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center and Medical College of Virginia Campus. Also included in the acquisition is a 365-space parking garage with 24/7 paid public access and dedicated parking for Edison residents. The high-rise apartment community is currently 97% leased. We are pleased to add another high-quality, urban, core, multifamily asset with onsite structured parking to our portfolio, said Louis Haddad, President & CEO of Armada Hoffler Properties. Consistent with prior transactions, the OP Units were issued at a significant premium to the current market price of our common stock, demonstrating our new partners confidence in the value proposition presented by our Company. With the Edison acquisition and the recently announced Solis Gainesville project, we will have added nearly 400 conventional apartment units owned or under development to the approximately 2,000 units in our portfolio and pipeline. About Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc. Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc. (NYSE: AHH) is a vertically-integrated, self-managed real estate investment trust ("REIT") with four decades of experience developing, building, acquiring, and managing high-quality, institutional-grade office, retail, and multifamily properties located primarily in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern United States. In addition to developing and building properties for its own account, the Company also provides development and general contracting construction services to third-party clients. Founded in 1979 by Daniel A. Hoffler, the Company has elected to be taxed as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes. For more information, visit ArmadaHoffler.com. Contact: Michael P. OHara Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc. Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, and Secretary Email: MOHara@ArmadaHoffler.com Phone: (757) 366-6684 Twenty-four per cent of WA's workforce dipped into their superannuation after the federal government sanctioned the early release of up to $20,000 in retirement savings to help those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Analysis of the scheme by Industry Super Australia found that nearly 70,000 West Australians made 498,000 early release applications, resulting in about $3.8 billion withdrawn from accounts, or $7948 per person the nation's highest. West Aussies withdrew $3.8 billion from their super accounts over the pandemic. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer Those figures prompted a warning from Industry Super Australia that the loose rules around early withdrawals could result in tens of thousands of lost super at retirement time, particularly for workers in their 20s and 30s. The superannuation body said a 30-year-old who withdrew $20,000 could have between $40,000 to $80,000 less by the time they retire. Until he decided to start ripping off Hialeah jewelry stores in 2015, legendary criminal Anibal Mustelier lived life at least one step ahead of everyone else. Mustelier spent 26 years eluding law enforcement agencies and Americas Most Wanted, earning the nickname The Ghost. While a fugitive, he beat a SunTrust Bank safe deposit box security system to steal $5 million in jewelry without a gun. Despite being a reputed assassin for Fidel Castro and the Medellin Cartel, neither death nor the law caught up to him as it did many in those jobs. The law found Mustelier by accident in 2016. Death closed the gap on The Ghost at the Miami Federal Detention Center on Sept. 18. He was 70. The Federal Bureau of Prisons confirmed Mustliers death. It didnt give any details on the cause. Mustelier had been at the FDC Miami since 2017 when he was sentenced to 52 years for the Hialeah jewelry store robberies. From 1990 to 2016, no cop who wanted to find him from local to Interpol and all combinations of the alphabet (i.e., FBI, ATF) in between could tell you any place Mustelier laid his hat. Well, there was that time in 2001 in Kendall, but Mustelier was gone from his wife and kids by the time police arrived. He was hiding in plain sight. An international fugitive hiding in plain sight, Hialeah Police Lt. Carl Zogby said in 2016 after Musteliers capture. Hes thought to have connections with Fidel Castro. Hes thought to have connections with Cuban assassinations. Coming to America and the 1980s Not much is known about Musteliers early days in Cuba or exactly when he came to Miami. Federal law enforcement officials interviewed for the Mustelier episode of Reelz Networks Gangsters: Americas Most Evil, said he was reputed to have killed people for Cuban criminals before coming to the United States. The show theorizes he might have come in the 1980 Mariel boatlift, but Miami-Dade County court records say he was charged with grand theft and burglary on April 20, 1979, well before Mariel. Story continues A 1980s Miami-Dade Corrections mug shot of Anibal Mustelier. He also was known as Chiquitico or Emilio Suarez. Mustelier got probation for that, as well as a 1981 burglary and a 1987 cocaine possession conviction. He was on probation for the latter when, the FBI believed, he tried twice to kill Francisco Condom-Gil. Condom-Gil was part of the Bay of Pigs invasion and had spent four years in Cuban prisons. The Federal Bureau of Prisons online locator says he had also spent a few years in U.S. federal prison in the 1980s, when he was also arrested on a cocaine smuggling charge in Miami-Dade County. A fusillade of bullets as Condom-Gil exited a Little Havana nightclub on Dec. 22, 1989, managed only to wound him. A car bomb a few months later injured Condom-Gil, his wife, mother and sister-in-law, but killed no one. The FBI wanted to talk to Mustelier. They wouldnt get the chance for another 26 years. The fugitive and the bank Federal prosecutors filed an extortion and threats indictment in 1995, looking for any hook to land Mustelier. An arrest warrant was issued Aug. 16, 1995. Though hiding from federal authorities, Mustelier managed to organize a gang for a $5 million jewelry heist from the safe deposit boxes at the Brickell Avenue SunTrust Bank branch. The key member aside from Mustelier would be Harry Irizarry, who would plead guilty to conspiracy to commit theft from a bank and entering a bank with intent to commit theft. Using threats of personal and familial harm, Irizarry and Mustelier coerced Irizarrys girlfriend, Yanit Martinez, into getting a job at the branch. She eventually wound up in a position she could get a locksmith into the vault to work on the safe deposit boxes of National Pawn Holdings. Another crony covertly incapacitated the car of the safe deposit box custodian on Friday, Nov. 15. Martinez assumed that position on Nov. 18. Musteliers associates walked into the branch like customers, used the keys made by the locksmith and walked out with $5 million of National Pawn Holdings jewelry. The security cameras? They needed to be turned on by the bank employee escorting the customers into the room. That person on Nov. 18? Martinez. Mustelier got indicted for the SunTrust job in April 1997. But, he earned fugitive status in August 1997 by evading arrest in the extortion and threats case. Kendall familiy and Hialeah friends Nobody in a mood to help police knew anything about Musteliers whereabouts for years. He could be in Europe. He could be in Venezuela. Could be in Cuba, could be in Kendall. Is in Kendall, said the 2001 tip call to Miami Crime Stoppers. Mustelier had kids, maybe a wife, too, in Kendall and was visiting them. But by the time police showed up, The Ghost had disappeared again by fading into South Florida. Mustelier looked like a whole lot of men rolling around town black hair, brown eyes, fitness buff buff, on the short side at five-foot-four. He looked like any Ramon Llerena, Emilio Suarez or Mario Cotelo (all aliases Mustelier used) youd see from Homestead to Palm Springs North. Thats why even being featured on Americas Most Wanted in 2007 didnt help find Mustelier. And he wouldnt have been found but for his choice of co-workers when he decided to get back to robbery work in earnest. One literally led cops to Musteliers Hialeah door. Mustelier got 24-year-old Jose Pineda-Castro and 26-year-old Yamile Diaz-Bernal to work with him on jewelry store heists. Mustelier developed a style befitting a violent man carrying the nickname The Ghost. The two men broke into the store next to their target jewelry store and hid in the drywall separating the two businesses. The next day, they would burst through the wall, guns drawn and in employees faces, demoralizing them into total compliance. They did this in May 2015 to Luany Jewelry, 1738 W. 49th St. in Hialeah They did it in September to Ariel Jewelry, 2476 W. 60th St. They wouldve done it to another store, but Pineda-Castro knocked out the power to the strip mall. That maladroit moment helped get Pineda-Castro caught. But his mouth got Mustelier busted. While talking to someone with whom he hoped to do some illegal gun sales, Pineda-Castro gushed admiration about the meticulous genius thief behind the jewelry store robberies, The Old Man. He didnt know he was talking to an ATF confidential informant. Hialeah police soon were knocking at a house in the 200 block of East 21st Street. Mustelier answered and told his girlfriend, in Spanish, Dont worry about it. Theyre here for me. They were, but didnt know they hadnt hooked a big bass, but a megalodon shark. Mustelier gave them a fake name and claimed to be Puerto Rican. Only when Hialeah police ran his fingerprints did they learn that theyd cuffed The Ghost. FIU poll: Most Miami Cuban Americans support Trump policies and will vote to reelect him In debate, topics of race and gun violence divide Miami-Dade mayoral candidates JERUSALEM, Oct 5 (Reuters) - Some of the partners in Israel's Tamar natural gas site have agreed to sell an additional 2 billion cubic meters of gas to state utility Israel Electric Corp. (IEC) for about $290 million, one of the partners said. Isramco Negev said in a regulatory filing in Tel Aviv the purchase price would be lower than in the initial agreement and that it would be joined by partners Tamar Petroleum and Alon Natural Gas Exploration. It said other partners in Tamar, Noble Energy and Delek Drilling, were offered to participate. In a separate filing on Monday, Delek Drilling said the deal went against another supply agreement IEC had signed with partners in the larger Leviathan gas field, which include Delek and Noble. Delek said it would was reviewing its options. IEC in 2011 signed a deal to buy $8 billion of gas from Tamar for 15 years starting in mid-2013 when production began. It also agreed in 2019 to buy 4 BCM, or $700 million, of gas from Leviathan in an interim deal until mid-2021 or when the Karish field comes online. IEC declined to comment. (Reporting by Steven Scheer; Editing by Tova Cohen) Indias delay in appointing a new central bank committee to decide interest rates is just the latest of Prime Minister Narendra Modis key economic reforms that are failing to gain traction during the nations worst crisis in decades. Three of his keystone reforms -- the goods and services tax, a bankruptcy and insolvency law and the Monetary Policy Committee -- have been mired in problems since the Covid-19 outbreak upended economic activity.Modis administration has delayed payments it promised Indias 28 states as compensation under the new consumption tax regime, increasing tension between the two tiers of government. The bankruptcy law has been suspended, frustrating the loan recovery efforts of lenders already saddled with one of the worlds worst bad-loan problem. And on top of that, the government didnt appoint members to the central banks MPC in time for its scheduled policy decision last week, delaying possible stimulus that the economy desperately needs. In such uncertain times, the least we can do is avoid unnecessary uncertainty. The MPC episode has just added to the ongoing chaos," said Amol Agrawal, an assistant professor in the department of economics and public policy at Ahmedabad University. Reforms have surely been dealt a blow by the pandemic." K.S. Dhatwalia, a spokesman for the government, didnt immediately respond to a call on his mobile phone for comment. Record Slump Modi has been hailed by investors for his business-friendly reforms, which had been under discussion for years but pushed through in the first three years when he first took office in 2014.The stall in reforms is weighing on the outlook for Asias third-largest economy, which has gone from one of the fastest growing in the world to among the worst hit during the pandemic. Indias gross domestic product contracted a record 23.9% in the June quarter from a year ago, and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. is predicting the economy will shrink 14.8% in the fiscal year through March 2021. The government is still pushing through reforms in the farm sector and seeking changes to the nations rigid labor rules. The GST dispute is particularly worrying. Modis government is short of 2.35 trillion rupees ($32 billion) of the 3 trillion rupees it owes states this year, and is encouraging them to borrow the shortfall amount until it can resume payments when tax revenue improves. With states unable to deliver key spending programs, some have threatened to take the matter to court. On the bankruptcy law, banks were broadly against the governments blanket suspension of it to provide relief to businesses hurt by the pandemic. The move will further delay bankruptcy settlements for banks grappling with huge bad-debt ratios. MPC Delay The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code is the most effective instrument available to banks for recovering their defaulted loans to the best extent possible," Subhash Chandra Garg, a former top bureaucrat at the Finance Ministry in the Modi government, told businessmen recently. Suspension of IBC should be revoked," he said, adding that the code had created an institutional path and a shift in the effectiveness of dispute resolution." The delay in appointing new MPC members at the Reserve Bank of India after their terms ended in August adds a new layer of complication for bankers. It could weigh on lending at a time when credit growth is already weak. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said last week the delay in appointments to the MPC wasnt by design, and the names of three new external members would be announced shortly. She is due to meet her counterparts from states Monday on the GST compensation matter. While investors continue to be optimistic about Indias pro-market reforms, we have seen a number of events that at least raise eyebrows in a very short period of time and could be considered bad from an institutional quality perspective, said Hugo Erken, head of international economics at Rabobank. That could show up sooner or later in ratings, yields, risk appetite and even economic growth." This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics "With people spending more time at home, it's no wonder they're looking to transform their spaces with color that makes them feel relaxed and at ease," said Michelle Bangs, senior brand manager, Dutch Boy Paints. "When given the choice for their dream home, 43% of our survey respondents preferred 'Earthy and Calm' hues over 'White and Clean' and 'Grey and Trendy,' which were a near-tie for second place at around 19% each. Whatever color palette they choose, the Dutch Boy brand has them covered with more than 1,300 colors and endless color-matching capabilities." What rooms or elements do survey respondents intend to "coat in calm" in the near future? The top five responses were: Bedroom (40%) Bathroom (39%) Kitchen (32%) Living Room or Family Room (30%) The Front Door (24%) Of respondents with painting plans in the next six months, 86% said they'll tackle two or more spaces in their homes. Only 16% of respondents claimed they have no painting projects planned. When it comes to choosing color, most will defy the trends and go with their gut with 74% saying, "Forget the trends, I know what I like." More home color preferences: When it comes to home style, nearly 37% prefer "Traditional and Comfortable," with "Modern and Uncluttered" taking the second-place spot at just over 27%. Most agree that baseboards and trim (67%) and kitchen cabinets (27%) should be painted "White and Clean." A little inspiration: 30% refer to printed materials and swatches from the store when choosing a color, followed by TV networks and social media (both at 14%), home decor websites at 13% and friends and family members at just under 11%. When it comes to getting advice and how-tos, 26% of our DIYers go to brand websites or look for videos from other weekend paint warriors; around 20% prefer to just wing it and figure it out as they go. How they do it: When it comes to choosing a paint brand, 70% think color coverage and ease of use are the most important factors. The one and only category where DIYers opt to call in a professional is for exterior paint jobs, with 58% asking for help. About the Dutch Boy Paints "2020 Paint Survey" Dutch Boy fielded the survey on July 22, 2020, to 1,062 people across all 50 states, with an age range of 25 to 65 and a wide range of household incomes. Those surveyed were a balanced mix of male (49.95%) and female (50.05%) respondents. For changes big or small, Dutch Boy Paints offers simple solutions from start to finish. Visit dutchboy.com to discover hundreds of one-coat hide colors along with project inspiration and advice, how-to videos and much more. About Dutch Boy Group Founded in 1907, Dutch Boy Paints continues to be an industry leader in delivering innovative and high-quality products and packaging solutions and is one of the most recognizable brands in the market over 100 years later. In recent years, a new vitality, youthfulness and the promise of Simple Solutions have also shaped the brand. Heritage and trust have been brought to life with energy and empowerment, inspiring DIYers and paint enthusiasts for generations to come. For more information, visit dutchboy.com. SOURCE Dutch Boy Paints Related Links https://www.dutchboy.com When the first half of Barack Obama's long overdue memoir, Promised Land, is published on November 17, I expect to receive calls like the one I received in the spring of 2011. That call came from a fellow named Michael Cohen. I did not recognize the name at the time. Nor did I know how Cohen got my cell number. He explained that he was the attorney for Donald Trump I did recognize that name and he wanted to know what I knew about Barack Obama's origins. Ever since I first started questioning the authorship of Obama's 1995 memoir, Dreams from My Father, I would occasionally get calls like this from people of a higher pay grade than mine. Having followed the birth certificate issue only from a distance, I recommended instead that Trump focus on the authorship question. As I explained to Cohen, although Obama claimed to have written both his books by himself, he definitely had help, much of it from terrorist turned educator Bill Ayers. This I deduced from my literary forensic work in the summer and fall of 2008. Mainstream biographer Christopher Andersen confirmed Ayers's involvement in his Obama-friendly 2009 book, Barack and Michelle: Portrait of an American Marriage. Andersen's sources in Obama's Hyde Park neighborhood told him that Obama found himself deeply in debt and hopelessly blocked. At Michelle's urging, Obama sought advice from his friend and Hyde Park neighbor Bill Ayers. What attracted the Obamas were Ayers's proven abilities as a writer as evident in his 1993 book To Teach. Noting that Obama had already taped interviews with many of his relatives, both African and American, Andersen elaborates, "These oral histories, along with his partial manuscript and a trunkload of notes were given to Ayers." Ayers himself took credit for Dreams on multiple occasions, usually, but not always, with a wink and a nod. My conversation with Cohen reaffirmed that Trump was the un-Obama, a creature of his own creation: blunt, bombastic, and as subtle as a truck bomb. Unlike most on the right, Trump refused to be intimidated. He was eager and ready to vet the nation's first unvetted president. On April 15, 2011, Sean Hannity of Fox News gave him the opportunity. "I heard he had terrible marks, and he ends up in Harvard," said Trump in his inimitably artless style. "He wrote a book that was better than Ernest Hemingway, but the second book was written by an average person." "You suspect Bill Ayers?" said Hannity. "I said, Bill Ayers wrote the book," Trump replied. Trump had made the claim earlier in a public forum. He doubled down on Hannity's show. For all the outrage about Trump's questioning of Obama's birth certificate, the mainstream media were noticeably silent about Trump's much more tangible challenge to Obama's literary skills. At the time, there was negligible pushback to his remarks about Dreams. The media were equally silent about Andersen's revelations. Indeed, at least fifty publications reviewed Andersen's book, and not a one that I could find mentioned the six pages he spent on the book's most newsworthy revelation. Relentless Obama-defender Chris Matthews interviewed Andersen on MSNBC's Hardball and did not address the authorship issue. Said Matthews at the end of the interview, "You're amazing, successful guy. You have a winning streak here." If Matthews did not read the book, which is likely, someone on his staff surely must have but chose not to notice the damning Ayers revelation. The mainstream media have been silent on this issue not because they think Trump was wrong, but because they think he might have been right, and Obama's reputation as a literary genius hinged on Dreams. The election was still in play in September 2008. By late in that month, I had gathered enough evidence to make a strong public case for my thesis, but I needed a lot of words to make it and ideally some high-profile space to put those words. The managing editor of the Weekly Standard, who had earlier published several of my articles, sent me to the magazine's literary editor. His response nicely reflected the widespread fecklessness that allowed Obama to win the 2008 election. "An interesting piece," he wrote, "but I'm rather oversubscribed at the moment, the length is considerable, and cutting would not do it justice. (Also, we had a long, rather critical, piece on Obama's oeuvre not too long ago.) So permit me to decline with thanks for allowing me to take a look." Other than the prissy use of the word "oeuvre," there was nothing unusual about the Weekly Standard's response. The American Thinker came to the rescue, but most of the higher-profile conservative publications would not even look at the evidence for fear, I suspect, of being called racist. The fear was justified. As soon as Andrew Breitbart and National Review's Andy McCarthy came to my defense, they were dutifully smeared. In his 2010 Obama biography, The Bridge, New Yorker editor David Remnick observed about my theory and McCarthy's endorsement, "if ever proved true, or believed to be true among enough voters, [it] could have been the end of [Obama's] candidacy." Although Remnick demeaned many of Obama's critics, he reserved what historian Ron Radosh called "his most extensive and nasty comments" for me. Remnick made no effort to find a hole in my argument. He simply attacked me personally and concluded, as Radosh noted, "by playing the race card in an absurd way." Remnick would play that card until the spots wore off, explaining for the naive that mine was a "racist insinuation," one with a "particularly ugly pedigree." There was a price to be paid for criticizing Obama. Everyone on the responsible right understood this. Almost no one took Obama's second book, the 2006 Audacity of Hope, seriously. Michiko Kakutani of the Times noticed that the prose, filled as it was with "flabby platitudes," read "like outtakes from a stump speech." She was righter than she knew. At least 38 extended passages in Audacity matched passages from Obama's speeches nearly word for word. These speeches were almost assuredly written by boy wonder speechwriter Jon Favreau, and the book itself appears to have been planned and written by committee. Even Bill Ayers dismissed Audacity as a "political hack book." As to the authorship of Promised Land, I will venture only two modest predictions: one is that Obama will not have written the book by himself; the second is that anyone who challenges his authorship will be called a "racist." Such is the America that Obama has wrought. Jack Cashill's new book, Unmasking Obama: The Fight to Tell the True Story of a Failed Presidency, is widely available. See also www.cashill.com. Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0. AUCKLAND, New Zealand National polls opened for early voting on Saturday for what Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has called the "Covid election." Driving the news: NZ quashed the virus after one of the world's toughest lockdowns and went 102 days with no detected cases before COVID-19 re-emerged. There are now seven active domestic cases. A voter casts her referendum ballot before dropping her vote for her selected party and election candidate into the orange box. New Zealanders are voting on whether to legalize cannabis and on the End of Life Choice assisted dying bill. Photo: Rebecca Falconer/Axios Shaun Hendy, a leading scientist who heads Te Punaha Matatini, a research center advising the government, told Axios, "We think theres a really high chance it has died out in the community." "Although weve still got cases in isolation quarantine, we think theres a 95% chance there are no more community cases out there." Shaun Hendy The big picture: Ardern's Labour Party is ahead in the polls of its nearest rival, the right-leaning National Party, led by Judith Collins, though Labour's lead has shrunk in recent weeks. The election was delayed by four weeks to Oct. 17 because of the second outbreak. For the record: New Zealand's most populous city, Auckland, went into level 3 restrictions under the country's four-tier system, with non-essential businesses allowed to open as long as there were no physical interactions with customers. The rest of NZ moved to level 2, with table service required in bars, social distancing reintroduced and gatherings limited. Wearing face masks is mandatory on public transport. Auckland's restrictions were later eased. Authorities contained the cluster and there are no domestic restrictions in place outside Auckland as there is no community spread. Hendy credits quickly deploying Auckland's second lockdown and improved contact-tracing systems. He1 expects them to lift next week. Of note: A New Zealand Electoral Commission spokesperson said voting will operate nationally as if there were community spread, with precautions such as social distancing, use of hand sanitizer and single-use pens to mark ballots. NZ has had advance voting for years, available as an automatic choice since 2011. But this year as a pandemic safety measure the commission extended early voting by two days and added "more voting places, to keep queues to a minimum," the spokesperson said via email. Threat level: NZ's borders have been closed to all non-residents since March, but they've remained open to returning Kiwis. 42 such travelers have the coronavirus and are in quarantine centers. Among them are 10 people who traveled on the same plane from India, NZ Public Health Director Caroline McElnay said Thursday, the last time any new cases were announced. Hendy said this shows the effectiveness of the quarantine and rigorous testing. The bottom line: "The key to avoiding a lockdown in future is catching it early, and that means keeping our testing rates up," per Hendy. Go deeper: Australia and New Zealand to open "safe travel zone" Editor's note: This article has been updated with the latest number of active community cases. Two dead bugs recently found in eastern Massachusetts have state agricultural officials sounding the alarm about an invasive pest with a big appetite for grapevines, hops and fruit trees. Spotted lanternflly populations have grown explosively in Pennsylvania since their discovery in the state in 2014. Since then, infestations of the sap-sucking insects, native to Asia, have broken out in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, and West Virginia and Connecticut. The dead Massachusetts specimens, found in Milford and Norwood, came on materials shipped from Pennsylvania counties currently under a spotted lanternfly quarantine, said Jennifer Forman Orth, a biologist with the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. State agricultural officials are urging anyone who has received goods or materials such as plants, landscaping materials, or outdoor furniture from a state with a known spotted lanternfly infestation to carefully check the materials, including any packaging, for signs the insects. These most recent finds call attention to the fact that there are many ways that spotted lanternfly can travel here from other states, said Commissioner John Lebeaux. Early detection plays an important role in the protection of our states economic and ecological resources from invasive species. Although the main host plant of the spotted lanternfly is tree-of-heaven, a deciduous tree native to China itself a rapidly growing invasive species here in North America the voracious pest feeds on over 100 different plant species, Forman Orth said. That includes a lot of different agricultural crops in Massachusetts, things like apples, grape vines, maple, hops, roses and a lot of plants that are important components of the natural environment, she said. Forman Orth said businesses in at least six counties statewide have received materials, including lumber and nursery stock, from states that have known infestations. The list includes Hampshire, Worcester, Middlesex, Norfolk, Essex and Barnstable counties. That really means everybody is at risk, she said. Residents should look for large, gray insects, about one inch long, with black spots and red underwings, or inch-long, rectangular yellowish-brown egg masses covered with a gray waxy coating. Egg masses may be found on any flat surface. Adult lanternflies damage plants by feeding on the sap and excreting honeydew, according to a fact sheet issued by the Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project. The honeydew then causes sooty mold and attracts other insects that may also cause damage to the plant. Residents who suspect they have encountered the pest should take a photo or collect the specimen, and report any potential sightings via the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources online reporting form, available at: massnrc.org/pests/pestFAQsheets/spottedlanternfly.html. The coronavirus pandemic has contributed to the need for increased vigilance because many residents across the state have been improving their outdoor spaces with new outdoor furniture, play structures and gazebos, as well as trees and shrubs for landscaping, officials said. When shipped from places with spotted lanternfly infestations, these products, and the vehicles used for transportation, can unintentionally carry the pest into new areas. There is currently no evidence that spotted lanternflies have become established in Massachusetts, Forman Orth said. As a precaution, surveys are planned in the areas where the insects were found, to confirm that no live populations are present. While a dead lanternfly was found in the Boston area in December 2018, repeated surveys have found no further signs of it in that part of the state. India on Monday rejected the United Nations criticism of cases of sexual violence against women and girls, particularly those from disadvantaged social groups, saying the world body should avoid unnecessary comments while investigations are underway. The UN in India had expressed concern over the cases of sexual violence against women and said it is essential for Indian authorities to bring perpetrators to justice expeditiously. It had specifically referred to the recent cases of alleged rape and murder in Hathras and Balarampur in a statement. Responding to the statement, external affairs ministry spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, Some unwarranted comments have been made by the UN resident coordinator regarding some recent cases of violence against women. The UN resident coordinator in India should be aware that these cases have been taken extremely seriously by the government. Also read: Woman travels over 800 km from Uttar Pradesh to file rape case in Nagpur Since the investigation process is still underway, any unnecessary comments by an external agency are best avoided. The Constitution guarantees equality to all citizens of India. As a democracy, we have a time-tested record of providing justice to all sections of our society, Srivastava added. In its statement, the UN in India had said, The recent cases of alleged rape and murder in Hathras and Balarampur are another reminder that despite the impressive progress made on a number of social indicators, women and girls from disadvantaged social groups face additional vulnerabilities and are at greater risk of gender-based violence. It added, The steps being taken by the Government of India to strengthen safety measures for women and girls are welcome and urgent. We support the Prime Ministers call for strict action against the culprits. Entrenched social norms and behaviour of men and boys that lead to gender-based violence must be addressed. A 19-year-old woman was allegedly raped at a village in Hathras by four men on September 14. She later succumbed to her injuries and her family accused the police of forcing them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night. Another 22-year-old woman died in Balrampur district after allegedly being raped by two men. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON AWD Introduced in 2015 as a 2016 model, the tenth generation of the Civic will leave us next year in favor of a more mature-looking car. Spied time and again, the newcomer returns to our focus thanks to a design study from Kleber Silva The pixel artist appears to have taken influence from camouflaged prototypes of the four-door sedan along with styling cues from the outgoing Civic and the hybrid-only Insight. Longer and sleeker than the previous generation, the all-new model also features door-mounted side mirrors and more legroom out in the back.Its not known if the current platform will soldier on with minimal modifications or if Honda is going for all-new underpinnings, but nevertheless, its easy to tell that the Civic has been brought closer to the Accord in terms of looks and practicality. As far as suck-squeeze-bang-blow is concerned, dont expect any serious changes under the hood because the 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo is pretty adequate as is.European customers may also be treated to a 1.0-liter version of that engine with three cylinders instead of four, and as ever, the Type R is likely to feature the 2.0-liter powerplant from the outgoing hot hatchback. Hearsay suggests hybrid e-for some reason or another, but no confirmation has been offered in this regard.Its important to highlight that all diesel cars from Hondas lineup will be phased out by 2021 as the Japanese automaker moves to electrifying just about everything by 2025. Obviously enough, one of the reasons for this dramatic change of attitude is the 2021 fleet average target of 95 grams of CO2 emissions per kilometers.Honda has also given up on its Formula 1 program in order to focus on electrification, deciding to exit the series at the end of the 2021 season. The shock announcement was joined by a rather curious statement about a once-in-one-hundred-years period of great transformation. One way or another, the Japanese automaker from Minato City is striving to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 The board of state-run Korea Power Electric Corp. (KEPCO) on Monday approved the company's plan to participate in a coal-fired power plant construction project in Vietnam despite environment-related controversies. A slew of South Korean companies are seeking to implement the US$2.2 billion project to build the 1,200-megawatt Vung Ang 2 power plant in northeastern Vietnam. KEPCO and Japan-based Mitsubishi Group will hold a 40 percent stake each. South Korea-based Samsung CT Corp. and Doosan Heavy Industries Construction Co. will also participate in the project. With the board's approval, the project is expected to start during the first half of 2021. KEPCO clinched a memorandum of understanding with Vietnam's industry ministry in April 2009 for the project. The project also passed a preliminary feasibility revision by the state-run Korea Development Institute in March this year. The project, however, has faced protests from local environment activists who claimed that the plan contradicts South Korea's green energy policy. In June, the board of KEPCO also approved a business project to build two units of coal power plants in Indonesia. KEPCO clinched a deal with Indonesia-based PT Barito Pacific in May 2019 to participate in the project worth US$3.46 billion to build the ninth and 10th coal-fired power plants with a total of 2,000 MW capacity on Java. (Yonhap) The upcoming iPhone 12 series is expected to feature the A14 Bionic chipset. And today, Tim Millet, Vice President of Platform Architecture at Apple, has talked about a few things regarding the new SoC, in an interview with a German news outlet, Stern. Along with it, Tim has also revealed challenges and solutions for Face ID authentication with the use of face masks. The A14 Bionic chipset from Apple made its debut with the launch of the new iPad Air. This new SoC is based on a 5nm fabrication process and it features 6-core CPU and a 4-core GPU. The Cupertino-based tech giant is promising that the A14 Bionic offers 40% faster CPU performance and 30% faster GPU performance compared to the A12 SoC. According to Tim, the A14 Bionic offers exceptional machine learning capability. He says, It takes my breath away when I see what people can do with the A14 Bionic chip. He also added that hardware and software teams work together at Apple, unlike many other companies, and that is what increases the performance of the processor even further. Tim also talked about how the usage of face masks during this COVID-19 pandemic has affected the usage of Face ID. If you have an Apple device with Face ID, you know that Face ID cant scan your face if you are wearing a face mask and thereby, cant unlock the phone, which has forced people to use pin code to unlock the phone. And that has made unlocking the iPhone during this pandemic a cumbersome task. According to Tim, Apple can think of techniques that dont involve the part of the face that is covered by the mask during the Face ID authentication so that people can use Face ID while wearing masks. But he says that it would reduce the scanning accuracy, making the Face ID less secure. It sounds like he is hinting that the iPhone 12 series might come with a fingerprint scanner to make it easier for people to unlock the phone when wearing masks. But that is just our hunch. Apple is holding back many details of the A14 Bionic. And we think the brand is keeping those details undercover to reveal them during the iPhone 12 series launch event as the brand would have to talk something about the new chipset during the launch. Speaking of, the iPhone 12 series is expected to launch sometime this month. Stay tuned for more details. [Source: Stern No casualties were reported in the past day. Ukraine has reported four violations of the latest ceasefire agreement by Russia-controlled armed groups in the Donbas warzone on Sunday, October 4. "In the past day, October 4, the Russian Federation's armed formations violated the ceasefire four times," the press center of Ukraine's Joint Forces Operation (JFO) Command wrote on Facebook in an update as of 07:00 Kyiv time on October 5, 2020. In particular, the enemy used rifles near the town of Avdiyivka and the village of Katerynivka, as well as an automatic grenade launcher near the village of Vodiane. In addition, the occupiers fired an under-barrel grenade launcher and rifles near the village of Shumy. Read alsoUkrainian army's top brass does not rule Donbas fighting may resumeThe shots posed no threat to the lives and health of Ukrainian troops so the Joint Forces did not return fire. No casualties were reported in the past day. Since Monday midnight, one ceasefire violation by the enemy with the use of an under-barrel grenade launcher has been recorded near the village of Novoluhanske. Joint Forces members jointly with State Emergency Service and forestry workers continue an operation to contain wildfires raging in Luhansk region. The situation is under full control of the Ukrainian military. Donbas ceasefire: Background KEPCO headquarters in Naju, South Jeolla Province / Captured from KEPCO blog By Baek Byung-yeul Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) has decided to take part in a coal-fired power plant construction project in Vietnam despite growing criticism from global investors and overseas environmental groups, the state-run corporation said Monday. The state-run power company said its board members agreed to participate in the $2.2 billion Vung Ang 2 project to build two 600-megawatt coal-fired power plants in Ha Tinh Province, Vietnam. "During a board meeting held Monday, board members approved the company's plan to join a coal-fired power plant construction project in Vietnam," a KEPCO official said. With the approval from the board, the project is expected to start in the first half of 2021. The $2.2 billion power plant project was originally conducted by Mitsubishi Corporation and Hong Kong's China Light & Power (CLP), each holding a 40 percent stake in the project with Japan's Chugoku Electric Power Co. holding the remaining 20 percent stake. But after CLP announced it would withdraw from the project due to its newly adopted coal exit policy, Mitsubishi proposed KEPCO acquire CLP's stake. After obtaining approval from its board members, KEPCO will acquire the 40 percent stake from CLP. If KEPCO's participation is finalized, Korean companies such as Samsung C&T and Doosan Heavy Industries are expected to join the project as engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors. KEPCO is facing growing opposition from investors who are concerned that the project will cause the power company to fail to meet its environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) standards and changing global energy standards, which put more importance on renewable energy. The KEPCO board members were anticipated to discuss the Vietnamese coal power plant project at the board meeting held on Sept. 28, but the subject was not on the agenda. The company has also faced significant opposition from environmental activists who are calling for the company to withdraw its plan because coal-fired power plants release a tremendous volume of greenhouse gases and air pollutants. KEPCO's global investors have also opposed the power company's move to invest in overseas coal-fired power plant projects, raising ESG concerns and profitability questions. Global asset manager Blackrock demanded KEPCO reveal its strategic reasons for pushing to go ahead with the overseas investment projects. According to the Korea Development Institute's pre-feasibility study, revealed by Rep. Kim Sung-whan of the Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) in June, the net present value of the Vung Ang 2 project, was estimated at minus $158 million. This means outgoing cash is expected be greater than incoming cash during the project period of 2020 to 2048. Despite such criticism, KEPCO said joining the construction project will help the company and other participating Korean firms create a stable profit structure as KEPCO will operate the plant for 25 years. A sign in the window of the O'Gara and Wilson Antiquarian Booksellers bookstore asks customers entering the store to wear face masks in Chesterton, Ind., on May 13, 2020. (Scott Olson/Getty Images) On Illness, Regulation, and Freedom Commentary A headline in the New York Times last Monday caught my eye. Britain, it said, operating without adult supervision. This was an odd, and even sinister, way of putting it. No one believes that the government of Boris Johnson has covered itself in glory, by its response to the COVID-19 epidemic, to say the least, but to talk of adult supervision of a country implies a government that is in loco parentis of a population of minors. The article under the headline then described the supposedly bad behavior of the population, for example by ignoring the need to wear masks or observing social distancing (a phrase no one used or even knew only a few months ago, in 2020 B.C., Before COVID). And it is certainly true that, after the government lifted the restrictions, adolescents and young adults in Britain behaved as if nothing had happened. They congregated in crowds, they drank to excess, they partied. In short, they continued their normal life of tasteless and vulgar debauchery which makes them, in my estimation, among the least attractive of human demographic groups anywhere in the world. Nevertheless, their perception of the risk to themselves of COVID-19 was quite accurate. At the height of the first wave of the epidemic, the risk of young adults dying of the disease was less than that of dying in road accidents, at least in times of normal traffic, and those very few who died were mostly suffering from other illnesses. No one has ever suggested, as a consequence, that people of their age should not be allowed to use the roads. A fit 20-year-old, then, had virtually nothing to fear from COVID-19, even if he contracted it (though, by definition, the long-term consequences of infection are as yet unknown). The argument against their insouciance, of course, is that no man is an island, not even a youngster who has little personal contact with the elderly. Their behavior would increase the spread of the virus to the vulnerable elderly. During the height of the epidemic, 1 in 49 people aged more than 90 died of COVID-19, and in my own age group (I am now deemed vulnerable by virtue of my advanced years) 1 in 807. Furthermore, it is argued that if the government had not taken drastic steps, the rates of death would have been higher. I believe this to be true, but that is not the end of the matter. The economic costs of those drastic steps has been incalculable, and might last for generations, for the government borrowing they necessitated, or at least resulted in, was equal to that necessitated by the prosecution of a world war. The question, then, is not whether the drastic steps were effective, but whether a similar effect could have been achieved at less social and economic cost. There are at least two alternatives: legal restrictions targeted at the vulnerable, or leaving it to the vulnerable to decide for themselves what restrictions to impose on themselves (I have a close friend of my own age, for example, who is far more careful, sensible, neurotic or paranoid, than am I, even though I take what I consider reasonable precautions). There are, of course, many people who are incapable of deciding for themselves, and with them some authority must stand in loco parentis. The head of public health in England has objected to the targeting of the old and the especially vulnerable because he says that it would create a form of apartheid. This is surely to substitute sloganeering for thought. Under a voluntary scheme people would choose the degree of risk that they were prepared to run, but even under compulsion the distinction between those at high and low risk, though to an extent arbitrary because risk rises exponentially with age and there is no natural cut-off point, is a reasonable one and not based merely upon prejudice. The head of public health also objected to any scheme that targeted old people because he said it would not work, since old people could not avoid all contact with those younger than themselves, and that social isolation was a risk in itself. This is certainly true, but irrelevant. To say that contact between young and old cannot be eliminated is not the same as saying that it cannot be significantly reduced. Like choices at elections, that of which policy to follow is not that between a perfect outcome and Armageddon, but between two imperfections. There will be regrettable consequences whatever we do, and people will die. To complicate matters further, there are unpleasant trade-offs that must be considered. How much economic damage are we prepared to sustain to save the lives of ill eighty year-olds? There is no indubitably correct answer and so reasonable people could disagree. With luck, these disturbing questions will be taken out of our hands. After all, the Spanish flu disappeared, albeit having killed 50,000,000 people first (the equivalent of 150,000,000 today), and has never came back; Covid-19 may do the same before it gets so far. But past epidemics are not reliable or infallible guides to present ones, and so nothing is guaranteed to happen as it happened before. A complete cure or preventive vaccine may, or may not, be found. Anyone who says he knows these things for certain is either deluding himself or is a charlatan. But to return to the article in the New York Times. Its headline seems to me indicative or symptomatic of a world outlook. It suggests that people behave badly because the government fails to direct them properly, as a good shepherd should. In other words, the newspaper implicitly dreams of a society so perfect that people will not have to be good, as T.S. Eliot put it. They will be good ex officio. It could be, however, that the indiscipline of the population is a reaction to the constant badgering by regulation that it now experiences, often by authorities that are stupid and incompetent. As Dostoyevsky reminds us, even were government to be wholly benevolent and all its provisions entirely for our benefit, we should not abide by them merely to assert our status as free and self-directed beings. Theodore Dalrymple is a retired doctor. He is contributing editor of the City Journal of New York and the author of thirty books, including Life at the Bottom. His latest book is Embargo and Other Stories. Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times. ALLENTOWN, Pa. - A Lehigh County elections judge is facing misdemeanor charges related to the Pennsylvania primary on June 2. Everett Bickford, who prefers to go by Erika, was charged Monday with insertion and alteration of entries in documents, and prying into ballots, both violations of state election law, according to a news release from the Lehigh County district attorney's office. District Attorney Jim Martin says Bickford colored in or darkened bubbles on about 30 ballots, and trimmed some so they would fit in the machine. However, Martin said it cannot be determined beyond a reasonable doubt that Bickford altered or changed a vote to favor one of the candidates. The charges stem from the primary race to pick the Democratic candidate to represent Pennsylvania's 22nd District. Enid Santiago, who lost to incumbent Pete Schweyer by 55 votes, raised concerns about voter fraud, claiming Bickford tampered with votes in favor of Schweyer. Santiago raised her concerns to the Lehigh County Board of Elections, which held a public hearing in July, Martin said. The board found credible evidence of fraud, and asked Martin and Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro to investigate. Bickford told investigators she darkened some of the ballots so the machine could read them better and trimmed some so they would fit in the machine, but said she did not alter any votes. County Elections Clerk Tim Benyo said he was at the poll center in the Lehigh County Government Center in Allentown on June 2, and noticed Bickford darkening in some ballots, Martin said. Benyo told Bickford to stop and said she wasn't allowed to do that, officials said. Elections officials certified the results on June 22. Detectives examined all the ballots from the 3rd Ward of Allentown and found no evidence of tampering, double votes or "spoiled" ballots, Martin said. Bickford turned herself in to detectives Monday on the charges, and has been released on her own recognizance, officials said. County Executive Phil Armstrong, who is a member of the Lehigh County Elections Board, said that since Bickford is an elected official, she can maintain her position unless she is impeached or found guilty. The county will have extra eyes at her polling location on November 3. District Attorney Jim Martin said he would be willing to consider ARD, a first time offender's program, for Bickford if she agreed to resign. Bickford said she will not resign, because she says that would be an admission of guilt. She said she is working on getting an attorney. "I really didn't feel I did anything wrong because we had technical problems with machines," she said. She said had she altered any votes, the machine would have rejected the ballot. W&M alumna helps lead COVID-19 vaccine study Developing a vaccine: A creative rendition shows particles of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Dr. Lisa A. Jackson '84 is leading the first phase of a clinical trial for a vaccine that uses genetic material copied from the coronavirus to trigger an immune response. Image courtesy of NIAID Photo - of - Hide Caption The following story was originally published by the W&M Alumni Magazine. - Ed. Dr. Lisa A. Jackson 84 has conducted numerous vaccine studies, but the task before her in March was different the timing compressed, the stakes higher when her team launched one of the first human clinical trials for a vaccine to block infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. In the face of a global pandemic, this vaccine represented hope. Weve had training in emergency response, but nothing compares to what were experiencing currently, she said, three months after the trial began at Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute in Seattle, where she is a senior investigator. The magnitude of illness and death is much more than weve seen before. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention confirmed the first case of COVID-19 in Washington state on Jan. 21, involving someone who recently had returned from Wuhan, China. As of Sept. 29, there had been over 205,000 deaths in the United States and 1 million globally resulting from the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes the disease. Development of a vaccine usually takes years, sometimes a decade or more. But the vaccine developed by Massachusetts-based Moderna Inc. in partnership with the National Institutes of Health moved to a human clinical trial in record time. Phase 1 of that trial, the part Jackson is leading, began just over two months after Chinese authorities shared the genetic sequence for the new coronavirus on Jan. 11 and the NIH and Moderna researchers finalized the sequence for the new vaccine on Jan. 13. On March 16, as many schools and businesses closed and the number of COVID-19 cases climbed, Jacksons team began injecting the first 45 participants in Phase 1 of the clinical trial for the vaccine called mRNA-1273. It uses genetic material copied from the coronavirus, messenger RNA, to instruct cells to create spike proteins that imitate the virus, triggering an immune response through the production of antibodies. Unlike most vaccines, it doesnt use a form of the actual virus. Phase 1, which evaluates the effects of two doses of vaccinations at three different levels on healthy adults, will follow participants for 13 months after each one is first vaccinated, but Moderna released preliminary results on May 18 and moved forward with subsequent phases of the clinical trial, running them concurrently with Phase 1. The preliminary results indicated that we did not identify any safety concerns thus far and it seemed like the vaccine was inducing an immune response, Jackson said of the first 45 participants, comprising healthy adults between ages 18 and 55. That was encouraging news for her team, which has expanded from a core group of 10 to about 30 members for the duration of the trial. In the weeks leading up to the first vaccine injections, the staff had been working around the clock preparing research, The Associated Press reported. In a March interview with the AP, Jackson said it was unprecedented to go from not even knowing the virus existed to having a vaccine ready for testing in two months. Emory University joined the Phase 1 study in late March to avoid dependence on a single location, and the trial was expanded from the original 45 participants to 155, including 75 who are between ages 18 and 55, and 80 who are 56 or older. A third testing site, the NIH Vaccine Research Center, was also added. Notwithstanding the extraordinary circumstances surrounding COVID-19, Jackson relies on her knowledge as an infectious diseases epidemiologist and her experience from conducting vaccine trials at the Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute for two decades and working on NIH-funded trials since 2007. Previously, the institute has studied potential vaccines for H1N1 virus (also known as swine flu), human papillomavirus (HPV), bird flu, hepatitis and Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis), among others. The basic functions participants, vaccinations are what were used to doing in studies, she said. I have a very competent and experienced staff, and weve trained some new members on these procedures. You have to carefully follow the participants and document everything appropriately so the results can be relied upon. Developing a safe and effective vaccine involves a massive collaboration between government organizations, research institutions, vaccine companies and laboratories, Jackson emphasized. Kaiser Permanente Washington is part of an Infectious Diseases Clinical Research Consortium under the NIHs National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) that develops vaccines and therapies against infectious diseases. Were happy to use our experience and our capabilities to assist in these efforts, she said. Everybody wants to do their part. We really feel grateful to be part of the team and provide our efforts and expertise to the overall goal. Jackson, who majored in biology at William & Mary before earning a medical degree at the University of Virginia and a Master of Public Health at the University of Washington, said she spent much of her childhood living outside the United States. Her father, L. Richard Jackson, was a diplomat whose work in the U.S. Foreign Service took their family to posts in countries including Switzerland, Pakistan, Malaysia and India, where she attended an international high school. Living abroad gave her a global perspective at a young age. I think it was part of the reason I went into the infectious diseases area, Jackson said. Control of infectious diseases is a major contribution to global health. At William & Mary, her interest in science was nurtured through small classes and by getting to know faculty members individually. She worked as an office assistant for Lawrence Wiseman, then the biology department chair and now a professor emeritus, and says he was especially influential. Wiseman also advised her on her senior thesis about cell adhesion, for which she studied embryonic cells from fertilized chicken eggs. I was really happy, though not surprised, to hear about Lisas impressive work on the new mRNA protocol to produce a COVID-19 vaccine, Wiseman said. She was absolutely one of the most independent and energetic students to work in my laboratory, and I am pleased that we played at least a small part in her early scientific development. Jackson cautioned that the preliminary Phase 1 results didnt determine whether the vaccine would work to prevent infection. Phase 2 of the clinical trial increased the number of participants to 600, who began receiving doses of the vaccine on May 29 at eight research sites, to further test for safety and immune response. On July 27, the vaccine testing moved to Phase 3, involving up to 30,000 people in placebo-controlled trials at 100 locations across the United States, including areas heavily affected by the virus. While Jacksons team continues to monitor Phase 1 participants, Kaiser Permanente Washington is also one of the sites participating in the Phase 3 trial of the Moderna vaccine. This latest phase will analyze whether the vaccine prevents people from becoming sick with COVID-19 and whether it improves the outcome for those who already have symptoms of the disease. Initial results from Phase 3 are expected by November, and company officials have said 20 million doses of the vaccine could be ready by the end of the year. Pending approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Moderna expects to be able to produce between 500 million and 1 billion doses per year starting in 2021. In August, the company announced that the U.S. government has reserved 100 million doses of the vaccine for $1.5 billion. Moderna is also poised to supply 80 million doses to the European Union and 40 million to Japan. Moderna could become the first company to license an mRNA vaccine for human use. Around the world, 42 potential vaccines are in human trials and 11 have reached large-scale Phase 3 tests, according to the New York Times coronavirus vaccine tracker data as of Sept. 29. NIH Director Francis Collins told a U.S. Senate committee Sept. 9 that he has "cautious optimism" that one or more of the coronavirus vaccines under development will be ready by the end of the year. Signs appear promising for the vaccine Jackson is studying. She is the lead author of a report on the preliminary results that was published in the New England Journal of Medicine on July 14, and she was quoted in subsequent news reports on CNN, Reuters, the AP and Time magazine. We saw robust responses after the second vaccination, Jackson said in Times article. It seems that two doses are needed, which is what is expected from this type of vaccine and from a vaccine against an emerging virus that hasnt been present in the population. The immune system needs to be set up by the first dose to then respond more vigorously to the second one. Jennifer Haller, the first participant to receive a vaccine dose in the Phase 1 study, told Time, I hope that we get to a working vaccine quickly and that we can save lives. Asked how she feels about her role in a study with such potential impact on the world, Jackson said simply, Im grateful to be part of it. Arizona News Phoenix, Arizona - Governor Doug Ducey, in partnership with Arizona State Treasurer Kimberly Yee, Thursday proclaimed October to be College Savings Month in Arizona. The Governor and the Treasurer this month are encouraging families to explore opportunities of AZ529, Arizonas Education Savings Plan, which helps families save money for a future postsecondary education. Opportunities to save for college and other postsecondary endeavors are available for families across Arizona, said Governor Ducey. AZ529, Arizonas Education Savings Plan, helps families put away money for future education expenses, like tuition and books, and ease any financial burden so students can reach their postsecondary goals. My thanks to Treasurer Yee for her work to support students and encourage families to explore their savings options. Arizona families have options when it comes to saving for future education expenses, like college and vocational training, said Treasurer Yee. College Savings Month is a great opportunity to explore AZ529, Arizonas Education Savings Plan, and prepare for the years ahead. Thank you to Governor Ducey for your support in helping families across the state learn about their savings choices. The AZ529 Plan allows families to use tax-advantaged investments to save money for future education expenses. The money can be used to pay for a variety of qualified expenses of students who attend traditional college or university, an accredited technical training school, or a United States Department of Labor approved apprenticeship program, including tuition, books, computers, and other necessary supplies. The program is Arizonas version of the savings plans permitted under IRS code section 529. Legislation establishing the AZ529 Plan passed in 1997 and the program launched in 1999. Governor Ducey this year signed S.B. 1528, transferring the plan to the Office of the Arizona State Treasurer as Program Administrator and the State Board of Investment as Program Trustee. A Chinese company which was banned in the US over security fears and tied to the nation's Belt and Road Initiative will build Melbourne's new trains. CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles won the bid to build 65 new high-capacity metro trains in 2016, just a week before Premier Daniel Andrews travelled to China. Mr Andrews then went on to strike a deal with the communist country under the Belt and Road Initiative, which allows China to invest in huge infrastructure projects around the world. Manufacturing company CRRC has been identified as a potential cyber-security threat by the US Defence Department because of its involvement in critical infrastructure, The Age reported. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews reacts during a press conference at the Carrum Train Station construction site in Carrum, Melbourne, in January A report from the Australian Strategic Policy Institute in March also found the manufacturer is one of 82 companies benefiting from the use of Uighur workers. CRRC was launched in 2015 and employs about 180,000 workers at more than 40 subsidiaries. The company made more than $44billion in 2018. The train program is more than 18 months behind schedule. CRRC was chosen ahead of local manufacturers. Mr Andrews maintains Victoria's Belt and Road deal, along with many others the state has with China, is 'all about jobs'. Chinese companies which have been investing in Victorian projects such as the Metro Tunnel have been employing tens of thousands of local workers, he said. The leader stressed that doesn't mean he is turning a blind eye to China's human rights record. Daniel Andrews (pictured in China's Tiananmen Square) signed a deal with China under the country's controversial Belt and Road Initiative in October 2018 'We don't agree with China on everything,' Mr Andrews told reporters in June. 'But if you want a good trading relationship, if you want to send more Victorian-made product to China, to create jobs here in Victoria, then a good relationship on the things you can agree on is very, very important.' CRRC has built trains for Boston, Chicago and Los Angeles but faces increased scrutiny in the US. The manufacturer was identified on a list of Chinese companies working in the US with close links to the Chinese government created by the US Defence Department. Those on the list could face emergency economic powers and sanctions by the US president. Mr Andrews is pictured with Chinese Ambassador Cheng Jingye A no vote might deprive Democrats of a chance to redraw the states congressional map to safeguard one or two House seats they gained in the 2018 midterm elections. The Democrats virtual statewide convention in June approved a resolution warning that the amendment could cost the party its majority in the House of Delegates as early as 2021, and the state Senate by 2023. Netflix's controversial series 'Bad Boy Billionaires: India' has gone live on the OTT platform. The investigative docuseries, which claims to explore the rise and fall of Indias most infamous business tycoons, has been embroiled in legal soup after Subrata Roy, B Ramalinga Raju and Mehul Choksi moved court seeking a stay on the release of the documentary. The series is described on Netflix as: "This investigative docuseries explores the greed, fraud and corruption that built up - and ultimately brought down - India's most infamous tycoons." Three episodes of the series based on the founder of defunct Kingfisher Airlines Vijay Mallya, fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi and Sahara group chief Subrata Roy, are available to stream on the OTT platform. Read Bad Boy Billionaires: India's review here. The fourth episode of the series, based on former chairman and CEO of Satyam Computer Services B Ramalinga Raju, was not released as a Hyderabad civil court restrained Netflix from releasing the episode on a plea filed by Raju. Sahara Group hit back at Netflix for dropping the three episodes, calling the documentary "ill-motivated". Condemning the documentary, and calling it defamatory and maliciously made in the garb of journalistic freedom, it said, "Netflix, being wholly owned subsidiary of foreign entities, in law, it has no protection of fundamental rights of free speech and expression. Sahara has already filed criminal cases against Netflix and their promoters, producers, directors and reporters etc." "The law will take its own course against such mis-adventurous exercises of Netflix," said Sahara Group in a statement. A civil court in Patna had earlier restrained Netflix from releasing the documentary series using Roy's name in an order dated August 28. The California-based platform subsequently moved the Supreme Court to seek a stay on the order. However, the top court on September 2 refused to entertain the appeal by Netflix. Days after the SC refused to entertain the appeal, the Patna High Court, too, dismissed the OTT platforms plea challenging the injunction order. The release was possible after a lower court in Bihar on October 3 vacated its own stay order, as per an Economic Times report. Choksi had also filed a petition against the release of the documentary in the Delhi High Court and a separate plea demanding a pre-screening of the documentary, which was dismissed. The PNB-scam-accused challenged the order of a single-judge bench dismissing his plea seeking pre-screening of the documentary. The division bench deferred the matter to October 13. Election Day is usually the end of the presidential campaign in the United States. This year, it could be just the beginning. Republican and Democratic Party activists are preparing for possible legal fights over ballots, voting rights, and the process for seating the winner. All of this comes as the country is dealing with the coronavirus health crisis, also known as COVID-19. The virus has infected more than seven million people nationwide. More than 200,000 have died from the disease. The U.S. Constitution and federal law have established the following process to seat a president. It is a little more complex than simply giving the keys to the White House to the winner. Election day This year, election day is Tuesday, November 3. Voters in all 50 states and the District of Columbia are not voting directly for the president. They are instead voting for a list of electors who promise to support one of the presidential candidates. Citizens of U.S. territories including Puerto Rico, Guam and American Samoa cannot vote in the presidential election. But they can vote if their official residency is in one of the states or Washington, DC. In some states, voters can vote in person or mail in absentee ballots before November 3. But the voting stops when voting stations close on election day. Then, states can begin counting the ballots. Each state has its own deadline for confirming election results. However, legal action or other issues could delay the vote count. Deadline to choose electors December 8 is known as the safe harbor deadline. That is the deadline for states to choose electors who will vote for the winner of the presidential election. The U.S. Congress cannot question or challenge any electors named by this date. This year, some people fear that delays from mail-in ballots and vote-counting disputes might not produce a winner in some states by the deadline. Writing in The New Yorker, Jeffrey Toobin describes a possible conflict in four states: Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. All four have Republican-controlled legislatures and the state governor is a Democrat. If the legislature was to appoint one list of electors, but the governor rejects it or sends a different list, what would happen? His answer is simply, No one knows. Electoral College December 14 is the date when electors are required to meet and vote for president. This process is known as the Electoral College. The Electoral College currently has 538 members. They will meet in each state and vote for the president and vice president. A majority of 270 electoral votes is required to elect the president. There have been five winners of the Electoral College who actually lost the popular vote. They are John Quincy Adams in 1824; Rutherford B. Hayes in 1876; Benjamin Harrison in 1888; George W. Bush in 2000; and Donald J. Trump in 2016. A copy of the official Electoral College results will go to the president of the Senate, who is also the U.S. Vice President by December 23. Congress to confirm the winner On January 3, 2021, members of the new Congress take office. Three days later, the new Congress will count the electoral votes and officially confirm the winner. But if no candidate wins a clear majority of electors, the House of Representatives will vote to decide who becomes president. This process is established in the 12th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Each states delegation gets one vote, and the winner of the majority of state delegations becomes president. The Senate votes for the vice president. This has happened two times in U.S. history. In 1824, the Electoral College votes were divided among four candidates. Andrew Jackson had 99 votes. John Quincy Adams came in second with 85. William Crawford received 41 and Henry Clay, the House Speaker, had 37. The House chose Adams over Jackson for president. And Adams named Clay as his Secretary of State. On February 1, 1877, Congress met to count the electoral votes from the 1876 presidential election. Democrat Samuel Tilden had won the popular vote over Rutherford B. Hayes. But Tilden was one vote short of the 185 electoral votes needed to win. However, Republican lawmakers disputed election results from Oregon and three southern states: Florida, Louisiana and South Carolina. Both Tilden and Hayes submitted electoral votes from the three southern states claiming victory. The Democratic-controlled House and the Republican majority Senate met 15 times to decide on the winner. It finally awarded the disputed election to Hayes by one electoral vote. Presidential succession The Constitution states that the presidents term in office begins on January 20. The president is sworn-in by the middle of the day. If Congress has yet to confirm a winner of the presidential election, federal law requires the nation to have an acting president. The Speaker of the House would then serve as Acting President under current presidential succession law. I'm Mario Ritter, Jr. Hai Do wrote this story for Learning English. George Grow was the editor. _______________________________________________________________ Words in This Story key - n. a device used to open a lock or something extremely or crucially important residency - n. a period of time when someone lives in a place absentee - adj. not being present deadline - n. a date or time when something must be finished : the last day, hour, or minute that something will be accepted submit - v. to leave to the judgment or approval of someone else Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 23:33:48|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close SINGAPORE, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Singapore has dedicated around 100 billion Singapore dollars (73.5 billion U.S. dollars) to support Singaporeans and businesses amid the difficult time brought about by the COVID-19, Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat said in Parliament Monday. "Our guiding principle is prudence, not austerity. We will continue to invest decisively in our national priorities, with a deep commitment to leave behind a better future for our children," said Heng, who is also the finance minister. For this financial year, the government's operating revenues are expected to be 16 percent lower than initial estimates presented at the budget in February this year, Heng said, adding that revenue collections are expected to fall across all categories. "We are starting this new term of government from a most challenging fiscal position," he said. He also noted that more details on when Singapore will enter the third stage of its phased reopening will be released by the multi-ministry task force in the coming weeks. "Given the great uncertainty ahead, we have to remain vigilant, work in close partnership, and continue to adapt as we plan and move ahead," he said. Heng made the remarks in a ministerial statement on an overview of the progress of Singapore's fight against COVID-19, its fiscal position, and strategies for the country to emerge stronger from this crisis. To further reopen safely in the coming months, Singapore is adopting a four-pronged strategy to put itself in the best position to fight COVID-19, he said. These four areas are securing early access to effective vaccines, enhancing testing capabilities, conducting swift contact tracing and isolation of infected individuals, and adhering to safe management measures, Heng added. Enditem Luann de Lesseps from The Real Housewives of New York City recently hosted two special guests at her home in the Hamptons. Bravo producer Andy Cohen and his toddler son Benjamin came by for a visit and de Lesseps shared photos on Instagram. Luann de Lesseps |Charles Sykes/Bravo/NBCU Photo Bank Sunday visit w/ #BabyBen the cutest, de Lesseps wrote along with a photo holding Ben on her knee. @bravoandy Im available to babysit anytime. In addition to her photo with Ben, she also shared a photo of Cohen and Ben sitting next to her dog Aston. A slew of fans remarked at how fantastic de Lesseps looked too. Luanne you look 12!!, one person commented. Another wrote, Good lord woman! You continue to get more beautiful! One fan observed that de Lesseps looked so youthful she could be Bens mother. I love that you allow your natural beauty to shine through and dont hide behind photoshop and filters like some of your cast mates, one fan wrote. Beautiful picture. Andy Cohen and son Ben have been visiting friends After a long wait, Cohens son finally got to meet close friend, Anderson Coopers son Wyatt. They met for the first time a couple weeks ago, up in Connecticut. It was cool, Cooper revealed during an appearance on Live with Kelly and Ryan. Cooper added that Ben seemed fascinated with his five-month-old son. And Benjamin was very sweet with him, Cooper added. He kept poking him. Cohen shared a photo from the meeting too. Morning activities: Ben sweeps while Anderson reads, he wrote along with a photo. RELATED: RHONY: Barbara Kavovit Shades Luann de Lesseps After She Was Dragged During the Reunion Cohen met up with Bethenny Frankel earlier this summer too. This #RHONY Reunion was short on drama, but lots of laughs, he captioned the socially distanced photo. Cohen and Ben later hit the pumpkin patch after their visit with de Lesseps. He shared a photo of his toddler son wandering through a sea of pumpkins. Happy Fall, he captioned the image. Is Luann de Lesseps the only RHONY cast member to meet Ben in person? Cohen was excited to introduce his son to his closet friends. Early visitors included Kelly Ripa and Jimmy Fallon, along with John Mayer and Cooper. Last September, Cohen shared a photo of Ben and Vicki Gunvalson from The Real Housewives of Orange County. My two OGs! #AuntVicki, he wrote. Kyle Richards from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills also met Ben when he was a newborn. Took a nice afternoon stroll with 3 of the cutest guys in NYC today, Richards shared on her Instagram. RELATED: Andy Cohen Shares a Precious Moment With Son Benjamin However, it appears that de Lesseps may be the only RHONY cast member to spend time with Cohens son thus far. Both Cohen and de Lesseps own homes in the Hamptons which likely made a quick visit a possibility. Cohen has also made some virtual introductions to Watch What Happens Live guests like Amy Schumer and her son Gene. Also, Porsha Williams from The Real Housewives of Atlanta and her infant daughter Pilar Jhena met Ben during a virtual episode of the show. Sri Lanka's former president Maithripala Sirisena on Monday appeared before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry probing the Easter Sunday attacks and denied he was privy to prior intelligence on the deadly terror strikes. Nine suicide bombers belonging to local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat (NTJ) linked to ISIS carried out a series of devastating blasts that tore through three churches and as many luxury hotels on the Easter Sunday last year, killing 258 people, including 11 Indians.The previous government headed by Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was blamed for its inability to prevent the attacks despite the prior intelligence made available on the impending attack. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who pledged an independent probe in the incident during his election campaign in November last year, continued with the same panel appointed by then president Sirisena after assuming office.The Commission issued notices to Sirisena on September 22 to testify before it on October 5. Sirisena appeared before the panel and recorded his statement for nearly 7 hours.Sirisena told the panel that he was not informed by the relevant officials on the impending attacks. He said he later learnt that intelligence had been received as early as April 4, 2019. He told the panel he went to Singapore on April 16 for a medical check-up and the then police chief Pujith Jayasundera and the then top bureaucrat of defence ministry Hemasiri Fernando had seen him off at the airport. None of them informed him on the impending attacks. He told the panel he would have taken action to stop the attacks if his officials had not kept him in the dark.Sirisena had sacked both Jayasundera and Fernando from jobs and the duo was arrested and jailed for alleged criminal negligence.Jayasundera was present when Sirisena testified alongside the then head of the state intelligence service, Nilantha Jayawardena. Jayasundera in his testimony had blamed Jayawardena for keeping him in the dark despite him being the boss.Sirisena will again appear on October 12. (This story has not been edited by www.republicworld.com and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister and de facto second-in-command, Kim Yo-jong, has resurfaced in public for the first time in about two months. The official Rodong Sinmun on Oct. 2 reported that the leader visited a flood-ravaged part of Kangwon Province and Kim Yo-jong was by his side. The last time she was spotted in public was on July 27 at a ceremony for war veterans. Dressed in a beige trench coat and black slacks, Kim Yo-jong closely shadowed her brother as they strolled through a field. The results of Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced 2020 were declared on Monday (October 5) on IIT JEE official website jeeadv.ac.in. Chirag Falor is the top ranker in Common Rank List (CRL) in JEE Advanced 2020. He scored 352 marks out of 396 marks. Chirag had appeared from IIT Bombay zone. Kanishka Mittal of IIT Roorkee zone has topped among girls with CRL 17. She obtained 315 marks out of 396. This year, no girl has succeeded in finding a place JEE Advanced top 10 list. Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank tweeted to congratulate the students who cleared the JEE Advanced 2020. Pokhriyal added that several opportunities are available for students who couldnt get their desired rank. Students should remember that an exam cannot define them, he added. JEE Advanced 2020 was held successfully across the nation on September 27 by IIT Delhi. Nearly, one lakh candidates appeared for the JEE Advanced 2020 exam amid the COVID-19 pandemic. IIT Delhi also released the All India Rankings (AIR) along with the scorecards. Live TV JEE Advanced 2020: Know here steps to check results online: Step 1: Go on the official website at jeeadv.nic.in Step 2: On the homepage, click on the link which says JEE Advanced Result 2020 Step 3: A new page will now open Step 4: Enter all the details asked Step 5: Click on submit Step 6: Your JEE Advanced 2020 result will now be displayed on the screen Step 7: Download and take a printout for a future reference. The JEE (Advanced) 2020 qualified candidates must register with Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) 2020 and fill in course choices in order to be eligible for admission in IITs. A breast cancer survivor says the disease is a 'taboo subject' in the Asian community, and that her mother's life could have been saved had she felt less 'embarrassment' at having the illness. Mother-of-two Rina Gunnoo, from Bradford, appeared on Lorraine today where she spoke to GP Dr Amir Khan about how cancer isn't addressed enough in Asian communities. Rina lost her mother to the illness in the late 90s, but revealed that her mother felt 'cultural pressures' surrounding the disease, which meant she felt embarrassment and shame' at her diagnosis. After her diagnosis she intialy didn't want to have chemotherapy, and by the time she began treatment in the form of radiotherapy it was too late for her to change her mind. A breast cancer survivor says her mother's life could have been saved had she felt less 'embarrassment' at having the illness. Pictured Rina's mother with her three children 'There was quite a lot of cultural pressures,' said Rina. 'In the sense of when the doctor said she needed chemotherapy done, she didnt want to recognise the fact she had cancer. 'I think it was a bit of shame to the family and an embarrassment for her to have cancer, but it doesnt work like that. You need to get help from the doctors regarding the medication and the treatment that she needs to go on.' Rina explained that her mum never underwent the chemotherapy she needed, and saud that after the pain of losing a mother, she was keen not to leave her own treatment too late. 'My mum did go to radiotherapy at the end of it all, said Rina. 'She didnt have the chemotherapy.' Mother-of-two Rina Gunnoo, from Bradford, appeared on Lorraine today where she spoke to GP Dr Amir Khan about how cancer isn't addressed enough in the Asian community Rina lost her mother to the illness in the late 90s, but revealed that her mother felt 'cultural pressures' surrounding the disease Ahead of her appearance on the show, Rina penned a message on Facebook , encouraging her friends and family to watch the show and insisting that detecting the illness early can 'save lives' When asked whether she felt any cultural pressures after her own diagnosis, she said: 'I didnt, you don't want to leave it too late like how my mum did. 'She had three kids including me and and you don't want to lose a mum at a young age, so I do suggest that you get checked out as soon as possible.' Ahead of her appearance on the show, Rina penned a message on Facebook, encouraging her friends and family to watch the show, and insisting that detecting the illness early can 'save lives'. 'Many people know we lost our mum with breast cancer in the early 90s,' she wrote. 'It is very important to get checked out by your doctor, if you have seen any change in your breast area or if you find a lump. Rina explained that her mum never underwent the chemotherapy she needed, but insisted that after the pain of losing a mother, she was keen not to leave her treatment too late 'Detecting breast cancer early can save lives. Sometimes in the Asian community we dont talk about breast cancer. 'Please watch Lorraine on ITV tomorrow morning on how this can be a taboo subject in Asian community. We will also be discussing my mums experiences & mine on this subject.' Rina appeared alongside Dr Amir's own mother, whose life was saved after she was diagnosed with breast cancer five years ago. She told that while some Asian women may feel 'embarrassed' about having their breasts checked, there is nothing in her religion that prevents her from having medical attention. Rina appeared alongside Dr Amir's own mother, whose life was saved after she was diagnosed with breast cancer five-years ago. She told that while some Asian women may feel 'embarrassed' about having their breasts checked, there is nothing in her religion that prevents her from having medical attention. Pictured, Dr Amir with his family 'I didn't have any symptoms and I went every year for a mammogram,' she told. 'I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I was just starting a new job and I was shocked.' Dr Amir asked: 'People from Asian backgrounds don't go as much as they should, what would you say to those people?' 'I think the must go', she replied, 'because woman feel embarrassed to show that private part of their body and that's why they don't like it. 'But there's nothing to embarrassed about, and our religion allows us if you are suffering and need medicine, even if you cant find a female doctor.' Kolkata: American economist and Nobel laureate Joseph E Stigliz on Monday advocated taxing the superrich class in India to raise resources for fighting theCOVID-19 pandemic, if the government fails to pool in the required funds. He also said the Indian government should not shy away from spending to control the pandemic and help the vulnerable sections. "Funds should be targeted at high-impact areas rather than low-impact ones, and if you can't get resources, raise taxes as you (India) have a lot of billionaires," Stigliz said at a FICCI-organised interactive session. There have been recent debates on levying COVID tax on the super rich in India. On the Centre's call for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-reliant India), the noted economist said too much self reliance will lower the standard of living as a lot of products, including vaccines, are imported. "This gives nativism but is not realistic, as the pandemic and climate change have shown the need for greater collaboration," he said. Stigliz also said India and the US did not handle theCOVID-19 situation well. Allowing the movement of migrant workers exacerbated the spread of the virus and defeated the purpose of lockdown, he said. Stigliz criticised the US for widening the divide of racism and income, and "similar divisive politics in India"that will undermine the society and economy. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- The 10305 zip code bounced on and off the states 20 coronavirus top hot spots. It made the states list last Thursday but dropped off on Saturday. As the only Staten Island community to be highlighted for such a designation, it could be subject to more intense scrutiny for enforcement of COVID-19 rules. Several restaurant owners polled for reaction arent worried about increased vigilance on inspections including Jac Mao of his eponymous Dongan Hills restaurant. Editors note: Images were taken for this story on March 11, about a week before mandatory shelter-in-place orders. In early March, I found myself heading to San Franciscos Linea Caffe to meet two locals with plenty to say about Bay Area restaurants. The coffee shop was recommended by one of them, in fact, and as the delicate smell of coffee lingered in the air, I eagerly placed an order as I anticipated the arrival of two prolific Yelpers. During the past 10 to 12 years, Yelps Ken G. and Ziyan C. have individually written thousands of reviews for businesses, parks and restaurants around the Bay Area and beyond. Collectively, the two have shared a whopping 4,011 posts to date. It's been a side hobby but also a really good way to track restaurants and dishes Ive liked. I really like to give friends restaurant recommendations, said Ziyan C., who preferred to keep her Yelp moniker for this story. Ziyan C., who works at the educational nonprofit QuestBridge, first took a deep dive into the world of Yelp reviews in 2010. Shes currently written 2,236 reviews and has posted more than 10,000 photos on the platform. Ken G., whose full name is Ken Gwynn, is the director of operations for a commercial mortgage banking firm in San Francisco, and began to write reviews in 2008. Hes since amassed 1,775 reviews. ALSO: 'It's a moral obligation': Inside three SF dive bars on the brink I think I first noticed Yelp all those years ago and thought it was an excellent service, Gwynn said. I remember at the time, right before Yelp, the only thing that was similar to it was Citysearch. I'm definitely very opinionated about food. When I noticed Yelp, it seemed much more interesting and [that] you were getting authentic reviews. At the cafe, Ziyan C. and Gwynn, who are both Yelp Elite this is the group of people who are steadfast critics and need to be approved for the title bear the gifts theyve received throughout the years during Yelp parties. Before my eyes, I assess the assortment of knickknacks that include bright red sunglasses, Yelp sweatbands, a shot glass, and even a lip moisturizer dubbed, Yelpstick. Douglas Zimmerman/SFGate In the past, Yelp has hosted events for its elite crowd that might include a multi-course meal at a four-star restaurant, Ziyan C. shared, but sometimes those events have been unrelated to food completely. I got tickets to like Cirque du Soleil [once], Ziyan C. said. They'll have events throughout the year, and it can range from a restaurant hosting us for happy hour to an evening on the Hornblower cruise, Gwynn added. They try to make it a lively event. Sometimes there's a goody bag on your way out. The perks have been intriguing, no doubt, but its not the incentive that has kept these two Yelp Elites on the platform all these years. And while Ziyan C. and Gwynn like having the elite badge next to their profile names, they admit they dont feel pressured to create a monumental sum of reviews in order to keep their status. For them, Yelping has been a way to build personal catalogs of the places they've visited. I'm very much a list maker when it comes to organizing things, Ziyan C. said. This is really a list of everything I've eaten and all the places I've been to. I enjoy having all this data. Gwynn added that hes heavily relied on Yelp when hes traveled and, in the past, hes even gone back to older posts hes written on cities hes previously visited. A quick glance will usually determine where hell be dining that evening. ALSO: Castro restaurant Miyabi Sushi closes after 33 years Mandatory shelter in place orders hit about a week after our meeting and, since then, things have changed for these Yelp reviewers. Neither of them could have imagined the impact COVID-19 would have had on the restaurant industry and both saw a number of their favorite eateries succumb to permanent closures. For Gwynn, three businesses came to mind: Specialty's Cafe & Bakery, Velvet Cantina, and Venezuelan restaurant, Pica Pica. When he found out Pica Pica was closing for good, he made sure to visit it as many times as he could before its final service. I think one of the ways that you can experience cultures is through food and [when you] take that away, you kind of lose that connection to a culture, Gwynn said. Douglas Zimmerman/SFGate Since the pandemic, both Yelp Elites have continued to create posts, but with less regularity, as theyve had to focus more on their personal and professional lives. Ziyan C., who was pregnant during the first half of the pandemic, welcomed her second child in July. Going on Yelp hasnt been part of her rhythm as much, but she still intends to write reviews shes had on backlog. Gwynn shared that the nature of his work has kept him busy and he has less downtime these days. Nevertheless, they both agreed that the value of a restaurant review has a greater impact on a business, especially during the pandemic. Gwynn understands this and said that since March 17, hes made the conscious effort to only write four- to five-star reviews. He plans to do so in the months to come. If I do have a bad experience somewhere, I don't write about it, Gwynn said. I just don't think it's appropriate to potentially have a hand in bringing a business down if they're already struggling. In the past six months, finding a one-star review on Yelp has upset Gwynn but the reviews are mostly a headache for business owners that find them on their Yelp business pages especially at a time when theyre trying to pivot to the new normal. (Too many one-star reviews can bring down the overall rating of a business on Yelp.) ALSO: Bay Area restaurant owner explains why he reopened - and then shut down again When restaurants made the switch to takeout during the first part of the pandemic, Pim Techamuanvivit, chef-owner of Thai restaurants Nari and Kin Khao, shared her frustration after receiving a trivial customer complaint. If we get a Yelp review about our take-away service, Im gonna lose it, Techamuanvivit wrote on Twitter. The other day, someone was furious that we couldnt just find some squid to add to his pork jowl order because thats how he likes them. We were like, oy, did you know [theres] a bloody apocalypse on! Another way Gwynn has reformed the way he uses Yelp has been to let people know that a business is still open and share what they can expect on the menu. Its his way to update locals on what's happening at the restaurant this moment. Ziyan C.s practice before the pandemic was to post up to 20 reviews in a single month, but now, shes taken longer breaks in between and will post five to 10 reviews every other month. She doesnt go out as often for full-course meals but will occasionally order takeout to satisfy her sweet tooth. Douglas Zimmerman/SFGate Recently, she went to Boba Guys and appreciated that the business took a moment to include a note that said they had taken proper health and safety measures in preparing her meal. The note was also signed by a person on staff. One thing I have tried to incorporate in my reviews now is if [a restaurant] stood out to me in terms of their safety precautions around COVID-19, Ziyan C. said. ALSO: Wayfare Tavern's reopening offers glimpse of what restaurants face for indoor dining With San Francisco restaurants recently allowed to open for indoor dining, Ziyan C. and Gwynn said they dont see themselves eating indoors anytime soon, but they are glad people have the option. From Elon Musk, to the family ice cream shop on the corner by your house, all businesses start with a dream. Keeping that dream going through the long hours, disappointments, naysayers and logistical challenges, however, is the tough part. Knowing that 20 percent of small businesses close up shop in their first year and that the majority (65 percent) dont make it past a decade, how in the world can you stay energized and positive for the long haul? After going through the startup process five times, Im convinced it takes these three pillars. Related: The 3-Step Startup Journey 1. Do it right the first time Does this mean you have to do everything perfectly? Not even close. (Nobody can do that!) It just means that you cant afford to futz around thats like throwing sand in your company operating system, and its totally for amateurs. You have to be professional and do your homework so you keep mistakes to a minimum. Time is your most valuable resource, and when you leverage it well, you maximize the investment youre putting into everything else and keep the work from being harder than it has to be. Think for a minute here about how you interact with your employees and set them up for success. Their most valuable resource is time, too. If you respect that and give them the space and tools they need to work efficiently and authentically, theyre ultimately going to be way more productive and have a better relationship with you than if you micromanaged, were unclear or buried them in useless processes. Set high expectations, be very clear and then get out of their way. 2. Do it fast Now, obviously, to do point No. 1 well, you might have to slot off a decent chunk of your calendar, depending on what youre working on. And you want to have enough time to really consider your options, get feedback and look into all relevant details. Haste makes waste, as the old saying goes. But todays market is an ever-changing kaleidoscope. Blink, and its changed on you. So in that sense, you cant hang around forever. You have to go on the offense wherever you can, take a go-for-blood approach and commit to doing whatever it takes quickly. The more you can cross an objective off your list, the more you can use your accomplishments to stay motivated about your big business picture and the more competitive youll be. Aim for as much speed as you can reasonably muster, and use the quality of your work to pace yourself. The goal is to arrive at high excellence, a fantastic service or product people really want, and a great price, all at the same time. 3. Have fun Yes, business has plenty of seriousness to it. Theres a lot on the line in terms of money, reputation and your wellness. But in the grand scheme of things, business is just a game where the score is measured in dollars. Youll quickly discover this once youre independently wealthy, or if you talk to people who already are. Once youre in that position, work isnt about the money. Its about the people and the joy of bringing something interesting and good into the market. Its about challenging yourself every day to see what you can do. So, work hard. But work in the spirit of play: Smile. Joke around a little. Explore. Be a good sport with your competitors. If customers are satisfied, and both you and your team can wake up every morning genuinely excited about all the things that need to be done, optimistic about having a great day, then everybody wins. Theres no beating around the bush holding onto a business dream is no easy feat. It takes intention, strategy and a killer support network. However, this three-pronged approach can help keep you out of the weeds. Commit to making your work professional, fast and fun, and youll easily cross whatever finish line you set for yourself and your business. Related: 8 Tips for Running a Startup Like a True Leader Related: Copyright 2020 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved A Chile police officer has been charged with attempted murder after he was captured on video apparently throwing a 16-year-old boy off a bridge during a protest. At least two videos show the moment Anthony Araya was running with a group of anti-government protesters Friday in Santiago when officer Sebastian Zamora approached the teen from behind and tossed him over the Pio Nono Bridge. Araya crashed to the Mapocho river bed, at least 22 feet below the bridge. The teenager was listed in stable condition with head trauma and a wrist fracture following the incident in the South American nation's capital. Lead prosecutor Ximena Chong said: 'The cop approached the young man behind his back, lunged diagonally at the adolescent, grabbing and propelling him, raising him over the railing of the Pio Nono Bridge, making him fall more than seven meters to the river bed.' He also accused the cops at the scene of falsifying the scene report. Footage captures the moment police officer Sebastian Zamora approached Anthony Araya before allegedly throwing him off the Pio Nono Bridge in Santiago, Chile, on Friday Anthony Araya (circled) was diagnosed with head trauma and a broken wrist. He remains hospitalized and in stable condition Sebastian Zamora (left), a police officer in Santiago, Chile, was arrested Saturday and charged with attempted murder when he appeared before a judge Sunday after a video showed him apparently throwing 16-year-old Anthony Araya over the Pio Nono Bridge during a protest Friday Police officer Sebastian Zamora will spend 120 days in preventive prison while prosecutors and defense lawyers investigate Friday's incident in which the cop is shown on video apparently throwing 16-year-old Anthony Araya (pictured) off the Pio Nono Bridge during a protest Zamora was detained Saturday and appeared before a judge via video conference Sunday and was ordered held in preventive prison for 120 days. The judge also ruled that cops have also been barred from contacting Araya. Dozens of people protested on Saturday outside the clinic where he is being treated, condemning police and carrying signs that said: 'He did not fall, they threw him.' The incident raised more concerns about police conduct since protests about a wide range of social and economic problems erupted in Chile a year ago. Some 31 people have died in the unrest and numerous allegations of human rights violations were filed against police. Anthony Araya participated in an anti-government protest at the Plaza Baquedano in Santiago, Chile Paramedics tend to Araya moments after he suffered a 22-foot fall into the Mapocho River after he was apparently tossed over the Pio Nono Bridge by a police officer during a protest Friday in Santiago, Chile First aid is administered to teen demonstrator Anthony Araya moments after Friday's shocking incident in which he was apparently thrown off the Pio Nono Bridge by police officer Sebastian Zamora during a protest Demonstrators confront an armored vehicle during Saturday's protest against police in reaction to a video that appears to show an officer pushing a teen boy off a bridge the previous day at a protest, in Santiago, Chile However, Enrique Monras, chief of police in Santiago's western area, said the youth had lost his balance and fallen over the bridge railing after the police attempted to arrest him. Ambulances were summoned so that they could provide prompt assistance, Monras said. The Chilean Commission for Human Rights said in a statement Sunday that Araya was part of a protest at Plaza Baquedano. Araya and the demonstrators were chased off by the cops at the protest and ran towards the bridge where officer Zamora confronted Araya. The agency said the cops blocked off a fire engine unit responding to the distress call. Paramedics placed Araya on an ambulance and rushed him to the medical facility. The government said in a statement that it condemns any violation of human rights. It said a police officer who 'does not comply with the protocols or the law' must be investigated and tried in the courts. Minister spokesman Jaime Bellolio lamented that the police didn't rush to Araya's side immediately, instead abandoning the scene. 'I would have liked if it had been different and that there had been a brigade, a group of police officers that could have immediately gone to the river,' Bellolio said Monday, according to Chilean news outlet Bio Bio Chile. Anti-government protesters are sprayed by police with water during a protest against police in reaction to a video that appears to show officer Sebastian Zamora throwing a 16-year-old Anthony Araya off a bridge the previous day at a protest, in Santiago, Chile The police look over the Pio Nono Bridge while Anthony Araya was lying on the Mapocho River Anthony Araya is photographed lying on the Mapocho River after he was apparently thrown off the Pio Nono Bridge by a cop in Santiago, Chile, during a protest Friday. Araya remains hospitalized, having suffered head trauma and a broken wrist Paramedics and demonstrators rush Anthony Araya moments after he fell into the Mapocho River during a confrontation with a cop on a bridge in Santiago, Chile, on Friday A demonstrator runs away from cop during clashes at a protest against police Saturday in reaction to a video that appears to show an officer pushing a 16-year-old boy off a bridge the previous day in Santiago, Chile KENT COUNTY, MI His estranged wifes parents, Patty and Theodore Syrek, were asleep in their Alto home when Nathan Board slipped in with a hammer and attacked. They fought back but didnt have a chance. It was a cowardly sneak attack five minutes of monstrous violence, Kent County Circuit Judge Joseph Rossi said Monday, Oct. 5. He sentenced Board to concurrent mandatory terms of life in prison without the possibility of parole for his first-degree murder convictions. In a bench trial, the judge found Board guilty but mentally ill which would require Board receive mental-health treatment while locked up for the rest of his life. The judge said Boards mental illness could not excuse the crimes. Board, who sat at the defense table and listened to the victims' family members describe their loss and devastation, declined to speak. No comment, he told the judge. The couple he was 66, she was 62 had shown Board nothing but kindness while he was married to a daughter, Sarah Syrek-Wood, she said. She lived in Arizona and asked police to check on her parents' welfare because she could not get ahold of them. Kent County sheriffs deputies found the couple dead in their home on Sept. 4, 2018. The details of the killings were horrifying. Board admitted to police he slipped into their home, crept up the stairs, and, after standing over them for 45 minutes while they slept, began bludgeoning them with a hammer. The husband was struck in the head at least 15 times. The wife was struck at least 10 times. Family members say the losses are profound. The retired couple doted on their grandchildren. They should have been able to enjoy retirement. They would help anyone who needed a hand. They were asleep, defenseless, when they were killed. The thought of their last moments haunts family members. They are reminded every night when they go to bed themselves. No one feels safe anymore. This is any persons worst nightmare, Patty Syreks sister, Angel Schuch told the judge. Boards now ex-wife, Sarah, said she has an 11-month-old son who will never know her parents. In an electronic link from her Arizona home, she told the court that Boards heinous acts left a gaping hole in all our lives. She said Board should spend every day reflecting on his crime against humanity. Her sister, Michelle Hernandez, also speaking on Zoom video conferencing, said that a piece of my heart was ripped out and it will never be recovered. She said that her parents' greatest joy was her children. She said her 5-year-old son, the oldest of her three children, talks about his grandparents. He sees them in his dreams but he wants to play with them for real. Other family members said Board will never be forgiven. Read more: Woman suspected estranged husband after her parents fatally beaten with hammer as they slept Man convicted of killing in-laws in their Kent County home Son-in-law arrested in couples killings in their home, police say John Williams In Vienna Deutsche Grammophon, Out now Rating: This album, recorded in Viennas celebrated Golden Hall of the Musikverein, commemorates an ecstatically received visit by John Williams to the Austrian capital in January. Im familiar with all the albums he has made of his film music, for which he has, over the decades, received 52 Oscar nominations, and this one, for me, is the best. Why? First, Williams is on cracking form throughout. The concert itself was a triumph for an event described by one Viennese newspaper as A visit from God. More than three hours of music was greeted with constant standing ovations. There are outstanding pieces that dont get out so much like a delightfully scored ten-minute suite from E.T. (one of Williamss five Oscar winners) Happily, that highly charged atmosphere transferred readily to the recording sessions, also in the Golden Hall, which has superb acoustics. Second, Williams persuades the Vienna Philharmonic to give of their best. Not a given, I assure you. The orchestra is among the worlds finest, but not at everything. In the Austro-German classics, certainly, but elsewhere, on more unfamiliar territory, they are decidedly patchy. And their experience of film music prior to Williamss visit was negligible. Certainly as compared to the hundreds of hours our own London Symphony Orchestra have spent with him in the studios. This 75-minute programme is a connoisseurs choice. It includes the inevitable dollops of Star Wars, recently voted the greatest film score ever The resplendent playing from all sections of the orchestra, especially the strings and brass, will blow your mind. No wonder Williams told the audience how wonderful it was for him to hear his music without the distraction of a film! Third, this 75-minute programme is a connoisseurs choice. As well as the inevitable dollops of Star Wars, recently voted the greatest film score ever, and including a brilliantly played Imperial March Vienna is big on imperial there are other outstanding pieces that dont get out so much. IT'S A FACT With 52 Oscar nominations, John Williams currently holds the record for the most Oscar nominations for a living person. Advertisement Like a delightfully scored ten-minute suite from E.T. (one of Williamss five Oscar winners); and the main title from Jurassic Park with super-luxuriant string tone, what a truly under-rated piece this is; and Dartmoor, 1912, an engaging bit of very English fake Vaughan Williams from War Horse. During his visit, the orchestra let it be known how delighted they were by Williamss professional rehearsal work and pinpoint baton technique. Whats the surprise, boys? He was rigorously trained at Americas foremost music school, the Juilliard, and as well as all his film music, has composed more than 100 concert pieces. As a conductor, from an early age he worked in the Hollywood studios with orchestral musicians who in many instances are far more versatile than any player in the Vienna Philharmonic, because they had to be. Then, when Arthur Fiedler, legendary conductor of the Boston Pops died in 1979, Williams was sent for. And his many public concerts since have been hugely popular. Theres magic in the air throughout this album. Dont miss it. You can hear excerpts from John Williams In Vienna on David Mellors Classic FM show from 5pm tonight Purdue Pharma's wealthy Sackler family are set to keep their billions under a settlement with the Trump administration, according to reports. The company entered bankruptcy protection last year in an effort to settle thousands of lawsuits accusing it of helping spark an opioid addiction and overdose epidemic that has contributed to more than 400,000 deaths in the U.S. The lawsuits said the company, and in some cases the Sacklers, used deceptive marketing and took other improper steps to flood communities with prescription opioids. Oxycodone is the main ingredient in OxyContin, made by Purdue Pharma. Now The New Yorker reports the Sacklers, who own Purdue Pharma, are prepared to pay out $3 billion to opioid crisis victims - but only if they face no criminal liability. In court papers the family say they will make the payout if released from 'all potential federal liability arising from or related to opioid-related activities'. Bankruptcy judge Robert Drain has also suggested a release should bar other authorities from bringing suits against the Sacklers in the future, according to The New Yorker. He told the court in February the 'only way to get true peace, if the parties are prepared to support it and not fight it in a meaningful way, is to have a third-party release'. One attorney told The New Yorker: 'Criminal liability is not something that should be sold. It should not depend on how rich they are. It's not right.' Scroll down for video Lawsuits said the company, and in some cases the Sacklers, used deceptive marketing and took other improper steps to flood communities with prescription opioids. Oxycodone is the main ingredient in OxyContin, made by Purdue Pharma At least 430,000 deaths in the U.S. since 2000 have been connected to overdoses from opioids, a category of drug that includes prescription pills such as Oxycontin and Vicodin along with illicit drugs such as heroin and illegally made fentanyl. Both Purdue Pharma and the Sacklers have denied allegations against them. In August a number of US states claimed they are owed $2.2 trillion to address harm from the drugmaker's alleged role in America's opioid epidemic, accusing the company in new filings of pushing prescription painkillers on doctors and patients while playing down the risks of abuse and overdose. A total of 47 states are suing the drugmaker; 29 have named members of the Sackler family as defendants. Under negotiations with Donald Trump's Justice Department the company would pay a fine but not no individual executives would face charges. Democratic Senator Sen. Tammy Baldwin last month questioned Purdue Pharma's decision to file for bankruptcy in Judge Drain's jurisdiction. White Plains in New York has become popular for large corporate restructurings because Drain is the only judge overseeing chapter 11 cases there. Purdue changed its registered address shortly before filing. A Purdue spokeswoman told The Wall Street Journal: 'The bankruptcy venue is proper. White Plains is about 15 miles from our corporate headquarters, and is the closest federal bankruptcy courthouse.' The Purude Pharma headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut is pictured In filings made as part of Purdue's bankruptcy proceedings, the states said Purdue, backed by the wealthy Sackler family, contributed to a public health crisis that has claimed the lives of roughly 450,000 people since 1999 and caused strains on healthcare and criminal justice systems. The filings cited more than 200,000 deaths in the U.S. tied directly to prescription opioids between 1999 and 2016. In large states such as California and New York, claims alone totaled more than $192 billion and $165 billion, respectively. Forty-nine U.S. states, Washington, D.C. and various territories are making the claims. Oklahoma settled litigation with Purdue last year. The company and family have denied the allegations and pledged to help combat the opioid epidemic, including by providing addiction treatment drugs and overdose reversal medications under development. The Sacklers' pharmaceutical efforts began with brothers Arthur, Mortimer and Raymond. Arthur's children were not actively involved in the business, but the sons, daughters and wives of Mortimer and Raymond carried on the family business; this family tree outlines the Sackler descendants and their connection with the business Dr Mortimer & Mrs Sackler pictured in 2004 Dr. Raymond Sackler, shown here with his wife, Beverly A representative for the families of Raymond and Mortimer Sackler told The New Yorker: 'Our hearts go out to those affected by drug abuse and addiction. 'The rise in opioid-related deaths is driven overwhelmingly by heroin and illicit fentanyl smuggled by drug traffickers into the U.S. from China and Mexico.' They said documents will show 'the Sackler family acted ethically and responsibly at all times'. Purdue and the Sacklers have previously pointed to fentanyl and heroin as more significant culprits in the opioid crisis. States in their filings, though, pointed to National Institute on Drug Abuse research estimating that about 80% of heroin abusers previously took prescription opioids. Purdue is only worth a bit more than $2 billion if liquidated. Opioids are a class of drugs that include powerful prescription painkillers such as Oxycontin and illegal drugs that include heroin and illicitly made fentanyl. Workmen at the site of the former O Rahilly home in Dublin 4. Photo: Frank McGrath A judicial review is being considered by local residents after the home of 1916 rebel leader Michael Joseph 'The O'Rahilly' was demolished last week, despite plans to make it a protected structure. Dublin City Council is investigating the circumstances surrounding the demolition of the house at 40 Herbert Park in Ballsbridge to make way for luxury apartments. The demolition was condemned by Taoiseach Micheal Martin in the Dail as "utterly shocking" and across all political parties. It was also slammed by O'Rahilly's grandson, Proinsias O Rathaille. The Pembroke Residents Association said it is "considering requesting a judicial review of An Bord Pleanala's grant of permission for a 12-storey building overlooking the playground and our beloved Herbert Park after the destruction of The O'Rahilly's home at No 40". The residents have until the end of the month to lodge their High Court application. "The destruction of number 40 Herbert Park in the early morning of September 29 is utterly shocking," said association chairperson Siobhan Cuffe. "The city councillors had voted that number 40 would be listed and preserved. "The proposed block is three times the maximum height permitted in the area. "No account was taken of the Strategic Environmental Assessment required under the 2016-2022 Dublin City Plan and its effect on the Ringsend Waste Water Treatment an Dublin Bay." The application will focus on the environmental requirements of EU law, which Ms Cuffe claims were not applied. Consultation "There was no public consultation," she said. The Association is asking the public to help financially with its planned judicial review, which it says will cost 45,000. Independent councillor and Former Lord Mayor Christy Burke said he welcomed the move to lodge a judicial review against what he termed a "mindless act". He hopes the city council will follow its investigation into the circumstance behind the demolition of the house with legal proceedings. "Dublin City Council now should provide a list to elected members of properties of our history in Dublin and start a process of listing them as protective structures in order to prevent any further corporate mindless acts," he said. A spokesperson for the council said: "Once the city council has ascertained the facts, it will take any appropriate action." An Bord Pleanala gave the go-ahead to build a 66m development of 105 apartments on the site. It granted the decision despite opposition from historians, An Taisce and the Dep- artment of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. President Donald Trumps doctors offered rosy assessments of his condition Sunday, but the few medical details they disclosed including his fluctuating oxygen levels and a decision to begin treatment with a steroid drug suggested to many infectious disease experts that he is suffering a more severe case of COVID-19 than the physicians acknowledged. In photos and videos released by the White House, there is hardly any sign that Trump is sick. But at a news conference at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, Trumps doctors said his oxygen levels had dropped to a level that can indicate that a patient's lungs are compromised. The symptom is seen in many patients with severe COVID-19. The presidents medical team also said that he had been prescribed dexamethasone on Saturday. The drug is a steroid used to head off an immune system overreaction that kills many COVID-19 patients. The drug is reserved for those with severe illness, because it has not been shown to benefit those with milder forms of the disease and may even be risky. Because of the incomplete picture offered by the presidents doctors, it was not clear whether they had given him dexamethasone too quickly, or whether the president was far sicker than has been publicly acknowledged, experts in infectious disease and emergency medicine said Sunday. The dexamethasone is the most mystifying of the drugs were seeing him being given at this point, said Dr. Thomas McGinn, physician-in-chief at Northwell Health, the largest health care provider in New York state. The drug is normally not used unless the patients condition seems to be deteriorating, he added. Suddenly, theyre throwing the kitchen sink at him, McGinn said. It raises the question: Is he sicker than were hearing, or are they being overly aggressive because he is the president, in a way that could be potentially harmful? Dr. Esther Choo, a professor of emergency medicine at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, said of the doctors statements Sunday: This is no longer aspirationally positive. And its much more than just an abundance of caution kind of thing. Some experts raised an additional possibility: that the president is directing his own care, and demanding intense treatment despite risks he may not fully understand. The pattern even has a name: VIP syndrome, which describes prominent figures who receive poor medical care because doctors are too zealous in treating them or defer too readily to their instructions. You think youre helping, said Dr. Celine Gounder, a clinical assistant professor of medicine and infectious diseases at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. But this is really a data-free zone, and you just dont know that. Still, based on the doctors account, Trumps symptoms appear to have rapidly progressed since he announced early Friday morning that he had tested positive for the coronavirus. Trump had a high fever Friday, and there were two occasions when his blood oxygen levels dropped, his doctors said on Friday and again on Saturday. The presidents oxygen saturation level was 93% at one point, his doctors said, below the 95% that is considered the lower limit of the normal range. Many medical experts consider patients to have severe COVID-19 if their oxygen levels drop below 94%. The physicians said Trump had received supplemental oxygen at the White House on Friday; they were not clear about whether it had been administered again Saturday, or whether his blood oxygen levels had fallen below 90 at some point. On Friday, Trump was given an infusion of an experimental antibody cocktail that is being tested in COVID-19 patients by the drugmaker Regeneron. Trump is also receiving a five-day course of remdesivir, another experimental drug that is used in hospitalized patients and has been granted emergency authorization by the Food and Drug Administration. Regenerons antibody cocktail is being tested in patients early in the course of the infection, because the treatment fights the virus itself and may prevent it from spreading throughout the body. Remdesivir is also an antiviral and is already commonly used with dexamethasone, which tamps down the bodys immune response and is given later in the illness, when some patients immune systems go into overdrive and attack their vital organs. On Sunday, the doctors said that Trump was in good spirits and that he was walking on his own and not complaining of shortness of breath. If he continues to look and feel as well as he does today, our hope is to plan for a discharge as early as tomorrow to the White House, where he can continue his treatment, one of his doctors, Dr. Brian Garibaldi, said at the briefing Sunday. But several medical experts said that the decision to prescribe dexamethasone to Trump did not align with that optimistic scenario. A large study of dexamethasone in Britain found that the drug helped those who had been sick for more than a week, reducing deaths by one-third among patients on mechanical ventilators and by one-fifth among patients receiving supplemental oxygen by other means. Guidelines from the World Health Organization recommend that the drug only be given to patients with severe and critical COVID-19. The National Institutes of Health has issued similar guidance, specifying that the drug is recommended only for people who require a mechanical ventilator to help them breathe, or who need supplemental oxygen. When I think about people needing dexamethasone, I think about people who are escalating their condition, who are heading closer to ICU level than to home, said Dr. Rochelle Walensky, chief of the division of infectious disease at Massachusetts General Hospital and a professor at Harvard Medical School. Using multiple drugs at once could have an impact on their effectiveness, and it increases the risk of harmful drug interactions, McGinn said. Youre giving remdesivir, youre giving dexamethasone, and youre giving monoclonal antibodies, he said, referring to the experimental treatment by Regeneron. No ones ever done that, not to mention famotidine and some zinc and a mix of cocktails, or whatever else hes on. Uncertainty over the presidents condition stemmed at least in part from earlier mixed signals from the presidents physicians. On Sunday, the team acknowledged delivering an overly positive description of the presidents illness on Saturday. I didnt want to give any information that might steer the course of illness in another direction, and in doing so, you know, it came off that we were trying to hide something, which wasnt necessarily true, Dr. Sean Conley, the White House physician, said to reporters Sunday. Dr. Rajesh Gandhi, an infectious diseases physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and a member of the panel that developed COVID-19 treatment guidelines for the NIH, said, What would be very helpful to know is how much oxygen did the president need and for how long. The presidents physicians also have not described in detail the results of imaging scans of Trumps lungs, or of blood tests indicating whether he is at risk for blood clots, a common complication in COVID-19 disease. Trump is moderately obese, a condition that is usually accompanied by at least mild or moderate hypertension and mild to moderate diabetes, McGinn noted. The presidents high blood pressure is said to be under control, and he is not known to have Type 2 diabetes. Still, studies have identified the conditions as critical predictors of severe COVID-19 disease. If Trumps illness has significantly progressed, then dexamethasone and remdesivir are appropriate, several doctors said. He got the therapies that anybody going into any good hospital in the United States would receive today, said Dr. Carlos del Rio, a professor of medicine at Emory University in Atlanta. But the doctors also raised the possibility they might discharge the president as early as Monday, shortly after starting him on the steroid therapy, perplexing some experts. If you start somebody on steroids because their oxygen saturations are dropping, then that is the time to be vigilant and to be monitoring somebody more closely, said Dr. Sam Parnia, an associate professor of critical care medicine at NYU Langone who has seen many COVID-19 patients. If there was a concern that certain things were not available at the White House when his oxygen was a little higher, it probably makes sense to be vigilant now, Parnia said. The fact that Trump is walking on his own, and that he delivered video statements in which he was able to complete sentences without gasping for breath, was seen as a positive sign by several experts. Nevertheless, many sick COVID-19 patients appear to be doing well even when their lung function is poor, a condition doctors have nicknamed happy hypoxia. Of course, we like to see that he is feeling good, but it doesnt put him in a category thats essentially mild COVID, Choo said. Steroids may also give a false impression of the patients state. The drugs are also known to affect mood, causing euphoria or a general happiness. Steroids can also disrupt sleep, leading to insomnia, irritability or depression. In some cases they may cause psychiatric effects, leading to feelings of grandiosity and mania, or even delirium and psychosis. The thing about steroids is they can have psychiatric side effects at almost any dose, said Dr. J. Michael Bostwick, a psychiatrist with the Mayo Clinic who authored a paper on the subject. While steroids are used widely in medicine without much concern about psychotropic effects, it is necessary to notice if the use of these drugs causes changes in mood or thinking or sleep, Bostwick said. During the first week of COVID-19, the course of disease is unpredictable, Parnia said. It is never clear whether the illness will progress or plateau. It can go north, or it can go south, he said. Any patient who has experienced low oxygen levels, or hypoxemia, must be closely watched, said Dr. Michelle Prickett, a pulmonary and critical care specialist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. Its hard to feel confident early that things are going to turn around, especially in the presence of hypoxemia early on, she said. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Did you know you can save your preferences across all your digital devices and platforms simply by creating a profile? Would you like to get started? Yes, I'd like to register/log in Not right now No, never ask again Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani has headed for Qatar to hold a bilateral meeting with Qatari leaders for the peace negotiations in the country's capital city Doha. Ghani, however, will not hold talks with Taliban officials, President of AfghanistanARG Presidential Palace updated in an official statement. Negotiations between the Afghan government and Afghan Taliban have been underway after the United States and the Taliban signed a peace deal in Qatar three months ago that paved a way for the intra-Afghan dialogue. Ghani will hold talks nearly a month after the intra-Afghan peace meeting that was held in Doha last month, in September, and was presided by the political leaders Qatar and a delegation from Kabul and Afghan government representatives. The two sides discussed the peaceful resolution of the conflict in Afghanistan. However, the parties are yet to reach decisions on more challenging issues such as scaling down violence and a ceasefire, a foremost demand of Afghans to reach a new power-sharing agreement. "In addition to meeting with the Emir of Qatar, the Prime Minister and other officials in the capital Doha, President Ghani is scheduled to address diplomats, professors, scholars, and students at the Doha Institute," the ARG Presidential Palace wrote in an update. President Ghani leaves for official visit to Kuwait and Qatar (@ARG_AFG) October 5, 2020 . pic.twitter.com/z4mnlnXM6o (@ARG_AFG) October 5, 2020 Read: Top Afghan Negotiator In Taliban Talks Arrives In Pakistan Read: Abdullah Abdullah To Visit India Amid Stalled Afghan Peace Talks With Taliban Afghan-Taliban conflict unabated Conflict in Afghanistan continues unabated despite embarking on negotiations. According to an Al-Arabia report, only last week, as many as 14 Afghan soldiers and police were brutally killed in a conflict that broke out in southern Afghanistan, as violence gripped the region. Taliban launched an overnight assault on several Afghan security force positions making Afghan troops vulnerable, risking the government-controlled district of Giza to the insurgency. In retaliation, the Afghan air force conducted multiple strikes on Taliban positions in the northeastern province of Kunduz, that killed more than 30 insurgent fighters. During his travel, the Afghanistan President is expected to take a halt in Kuwait to attend the funeral ceremony of late Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, according to a close aides information revealed in the media. The Western diplomat overseeing the peace negotiations was also reported saying that the Afghan president will also hold meetings to strengthen the Afghanistan-Qatar ties. Ghanis travel comes amid the fresh onslaught of conflicts across Afghanistan that make negotiators talks more challenging. Read: Ashraf Ghani Urges UNGA Leaders To Make Afghanistan 'sovereign United, Democratic' Read: Ashraf Ghani: US Confirmed There's No 'secret Deal' With Afghanistan Its one thing to take leftover industrial waste and repurpose it into art, but its another thing entirely to equip a factory to turn its own byproducts into imaginative and useful objects. This could very well be a new manufacturing trend, thanks to Seoul-based artist Youngmin Kang. The surreal sculptural chairs featured in Youngmin Kang's For his recent collection Art from Factory (AFF), Kang worked with a Korean business to fashion furniture from some custom metal molds and the companys own assembly equipment. Hot plastic in vibrant hues oozes out of nozzles, layering back and forth on itself as it fills out into the rough shape of a chair or stool. The effect is a stunning, multi-colored seat that looks like it could have been squeezed out a tube of toothpaste. The project began when the company, which generates plastic-coated steel piping, including grip stands for all the buses in South Koreas capital city, emailed a plea for help in managing their waste. Their plastic by-product was accumulating at the same rate as their finished output, according to Kang. The solution was art. After observing its system closely, I decided to create a design out of the remaining materials to pursue the virtue of my art: seeking wit from everyday life, he says. These plastic tubes form the basis for all of Kang's new chairs and stools. To crush the plastic into the appropriate shape, Kang uses a chair mold. On his Instagram account, Kang explains his thought process with AFF: Since the development of industrialization, art and design have been divided into black and white, and the boundaries between industrial and artistic products have become clear. However, this clear line only separates everything from what is considered as practical and what is not. To me, factories were the opposite concept of art, operating mass production systems. Through this project, I wanted to find a way to produce something using plastic waste in these hard, uniformed gray spaces in order to achieve a variety of results. I think this is the process of trying to find values that can reflect the present in the boundaries of todays art and design. Story continues A sculptural organe-blue chair featured in artist Youngmin Kang's repurposed Art From Factory collection. Close-up of the melted plastic that makes up artist Youngmin Kang's repurposed Art From Factory Chairs. An eye-catching purple chair featured in artist Youngmin Kang's reclaimed A special Reebok-inspired chair created as part of artist Youngmin Kang's repurposed The sculptural With the transformation of machine-made dross into pulled-taffy-like fixtures, Kang was able to achieve a synergistic union between industrial functionality and artistic form. He allowed his passion for fashion to run wild with this initial compilation, using red, white, and black as the basis for his Nike Air Jordan chair. Kang also crafted one in the traditional colors of Reebok merchandise, a nod to his previous collaboration with the company. A green stool with one red leg Kang labeled red-eyed tree frog. He also experimented with a traffic cone shape called NO PARKING that has already been sold to a fellow Korean designer Joonghyung Cho. For his Collection 1.3, Kang repurposed metal pipes and ropes into chic industrial stools. Kang has been on the art scene since 2006, when he graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Masters in Studio Design. Before that, he studied at the Seoul National University. Other recent creative ventures have included his Collection 1.3, stools made of metal pipes and rope, and the Oddly Bookshelf, a metal see-saw that holds books in place with a wooden orb. Artist Youngmin Kang sits on one of his sculptural repurposed chairs. His AFF furniture compilation is currently under development for post-COVID 19 exhibitions and collaborations. Items for individual purchase will be available soon. CHICAGO: Christy DeGallerie noticed a startling trend in her online group for coronavirus survivors: White patients got medications shed never heard of, were offered X-rays and their doctors listened to their concerns. That wasnt her experience. When the 29-year-old Black woman sought a COVID-19 test at a New York emergency room, a nurse said she didnt have a fever. DeGallerie appealed to a doctor of color, who told the nurse to check again. It registered 101 degrees. We know our pain is questioned and our pain is not real to them, said DeGallerie, who later started a group for Black COVID-19 survivors. Getting medical help shouldnt be discouraging for anyone. It is a discouraging place for Black people. Addressing experiences like DeGalleries has become a priority for a growing number of local governments, many responding to a pandemic thats amplified racial disparities and the call for racial justice after the police killing of George Floyd and other Black Americans. Since last year, about 70 cities, roughly three dozen counties and three states have declared racism a public health crisis, according to the American Public Health Association. Local leaders say formally acknowledging the role racism plays not just in health care but in housing, the environment, policing and food access is a bold step, especially when it wasnt always a common notion among public health experts. But what the declarations do to address systemic inequalities vary widely, with skeptics saying they are merely symbolic. Kansas City, Missouri, and Indianapolis used their declarations to calculate how to dispense public funding. The mayor of Holyoke, Massachusetts, a mostly white community of roughly 40,000, used a declaration to make Juneteenth a paid city employee holiday. The Minnesota House passed a resolution vowing to actively participate in the dismantling of racism." Wisconsins governor made a verbal commitment, while governors in Nevada and Michigan signed public documents. It is only after we have fully defined the injustice that we can begin to take steps to replace it with a greater system of justice that enables all Michiganders to pursue their fullest dreams and potential, Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II said in a statement. Wisconsins Milwaukee County takes credit for being the first with its May 2019 order. It acted because of sobering health disparities in Wisconsins most populous county, where nearly 70% of the states Black residents live. Its the only county with a significantly higher poverty rate than the state average, 17.5% compared with 10.8% statewide, according to a University of Wisconsin-Madison report. County officials developed a racial equity budget tool, requiring departments to explain plans to hire and retain a diverse workforce and how budgets affect disadvantaged communities. The framing helped accelerate the conversation, not only stakeholders could actually grasp and understand, said Jeff Roman, head of the countys Office on African American Affairs. Kansas City was another early adopter in August 2019. Councilwoman Melissa Robinson called it a new decision-making lens. For instance, when the city approved a $2 million pandemic relief plan, more money went to areas with more Black residents, who have been hit disproportionately hard by the virus, instead of being divided equally among ZIP codes. Lets look at where our communities are hurting the most to lift them up, she said. Officials in Indianapolis approved a resolution in June, and departments proposing budgets now must answer questions like: How does compensation and level of authority compare between white and minority employees? We needed to say it and put it out there so all the decisions we make in this realm are not made in a vacuum, said Vop Osili, president of the Indianapolis City-County Council. To some, the efforts fall short. Some clergy called the Indianapolis resolution meaningless." The head of the Chicago Hispanic Health Coalition said Cook Countys 2019 resolution does nothing to help those lacking health insurance, often because of low-paying jobs. Nearly 20% of Hispanic people under 65 are uninsured, compared with 11% of Black people and 8% of white people, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. We cannot take advantage of people to pay low wages and pay no attention to their health care, coalition director Esther Sciammarella said. Efuru Flowers, co-founder of Black Women Rally for Action, called Los Angeles 2019 declaration problematic. The city offers guidelines, including equality training for city employees. While it notes disparities, like Black residents making up 8% of Los Angeles County but 42% of the homeless population, the solutions dont specifically mention Black people. It does not promote the urgency of eliminating racism in all its forms, said Flowers, who started her Los Angeles County organization after a 2019 health report card revealed poor outcomes for Black women. It doesnt promote or enlist citizens to join the effort. Some are trying to change that. A coalition of hospitals and community clinics took up the cause in Chicago, where a city study showed chronic disease and gun violence are top causes for the almost nine-year gap in life expectancy between Black and white residents. The group published an open letter in June calling racism a real threat to the health of our patients, families and communities. Their goals include increasing access to care, even as one of Chicagos oldest hospitals that serves predominantly Black, Hispanic, elderly and low-income patients is set to close. The group aims to have specific commitments by years end. The reality is that we helped create some of these structural barriers, said Brenda Battle, vice president of the University of Chicago Medicines Urban Health Initiative. We are the ones who have the ability to influence access to health care services. We have not effectively ensured that everybody has access. DeGallerie is encouraged by such efforts but says shes never felt racial disparities so strongly. In her Black COVID-19 survivors group, not being taken seriously by medical professionals is a common theme, as is getting substandard care. Shes skeptical of when shell see change. I would only believe it when it comes from the mouths of patients who are Black, she said. Those are the only people who would be able to tell you that something has changed. ___ Sophia Tareen is a member of The Associated Press Race and Ethnicity Team. Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sophiatareen Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor The British Pound to Euro (GBP/EUR) exchange rate has been hit by market panic in recent sessions. With investors anxious about the future of the Brexit process and the US Presidential Election, both currencies are under pressure. This has left investors less focused on key data such as September PMIs, with uncertainty around the Brexit process and US President Donald Trump taking focus. Last week saw GBP/EUR advance, as the Pound was able to benefit from market risk-aversion keeping pressure on the Euro. Hopes for a Brexit breakthrough also boosted Sterling. GBP/EUR climbed from the level of 1.0952 to 1.1042 last week, just less than a cent. However, GBP/EUR has been unable to keep recovering its September losses, as today the exchange rate is slipping again. At the time of writing on Monday, GBP/EUR is trending lower in the region of 1.1029. This week so far, investors are hesitant to buy the Pound. Concerns about a lack of solid developments in UK-EU Brexit negotiations have left broad uncertainties in the UK outlook, and the Pound relatively unappealing. Last week, hopes for a last-minute breakthrough in UK-EU Brexit negotiations led to higher demand for the Pound briefly. This was a large part of why the Pound advanced against the Euro last week. At the end of the week, it was announced that UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen would hold high level talks. During this weekend meeting, it was announced that Brexit negotiations would be extended a further month. Johnson and von der Leyen urged negotiators to secure a deal. Analysts predict that there could be a basic deal agreed by November. According to Analysts at Goldman Sachs: While we have frequently cautioned that the more uncertain global backdrop has made it harder to express views on the Brexit process in the currency this year, we are encouraged by the Pounds increasingly idiosyncratic price action as the negotiation deadlines draw near Todays key UK PMI services PMI beat forecasts. Normally, this would have boosted demand for the British currency, but the focus on Brexit uncertainties is keeping a lid on the Pounds appeal. Euro (EUR) Exchange Rates Avoid Losses Thanks to Stronger than Expected Data The latest Eurozone data has been stronger than forecasts. This morning saw the publication of key Eurozone ecostats, including services and composite PMI results from September, as well as Augusts retail sales results. Retail sales stats were particularly impressive, jumping from -1.8% to 4.4% month-on-month. The yearly figure rose to 3.7%. It came due to a surge in online shopping and clothing sales amid the coronavirus pandemic. The Eurozones PMIs were better than projected, most notably in Germany, the Eurozones biggest economy. Still, economic activity overall showed the Eurozone economy was stalling, according to Markit Chief Business Economist Chris Williamson: However, renewed service sector downturns were also recorded in France and Ireland, while a nearstalling was recorded in Germany, underscoring the broad-based geographical spread of the worsening service sector picture. Virus containment measures remained particularly strict in both Spain and Italy during September, and were also tightened in France and Germany This, as well as stronger performance in the Euros rival the US Dollar (USD), limited the Euros potential for gains today. GBP/EUR Exchange Rate Forecast: Markets Await Political Developments Brexit remains in focus for Pound exchange rates, but unless there are some notable or surprising developments the Pound to Euro exchange rate may be influenced more by other developments. Tomorrow will see the publication of construction PMIs for both the UK and Eurozone, as well as German factory orders data. European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde will hold a speech, followed by another on Wednesday. These could be influential for the Eurozone, especially if Lagarde signals any shift in policy direction. Also in focus will be developments on the health of US President Donald Trump, who was confirmed positive for the coronavirus Covid19 last week. If Trumps health worsens, concerns about the US Presidential Election and US political stability could worsen. This could lead to stronger demand for the Euros safe haven rival, the US Dollar (USD), which would pressure the Euro. UK data due later in the week could also influence the Pound to Euro exchange rate. PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- ERT, a leading global data and technology company which minimizes risk and uncertainty in clinical trials, today announced that Joe Eazor will succeed Jim Corrigan as President and Chief Executive Officer effective October 5, 2020. Jim will continue to support the company during a transition period. Joe Eazor will succeed Jim Corrigan as President and Chief Executive Officer of ERT effective October 5, 2020. Joe joins ERT after successfully leading multiple companies in a CEO role, including experience running both public and private companies. Most recently, he served as CEO of Conifer Health Solutions, and previously as CEO of Rackspace and as CEO of Earthlink. Joe also has held senior executive roles at Oracle, EMC, Hewlett-Packard, and Electronic Data Systems. Joe joins ERT after successfully leading multiple companies in a CEO role, including experience running both public and private companies. Most recently, he served as CEO of Conifer Health Solutions, and previously as CEO of Rackspace and as CEO of Earthlink. Joe also has held senior executive roles at Oracle, EMC, Hewlett-Packard, and Electronic Data Systems, including global P&L responsibility for the $22 billion HP Enterprise Services division. "Joe's proven track record of leading successful innovation and growth in both healthcare and technology companies impressed the Board of Directors," said Judith Charpentier of Astorg. The clinical trial industry is undergoing rapid change, and there is an increased need for technology-driven solutions to support virtual and hybrid trials through patient-administered and remote assessments. The Board recruited Joe, with his deep technology leadership experience, to drive a new growth chapter for ERT. "My commitment to ERT's clients and employees is to bring more rapid innovation to the market with an unrelenting focus on quality and service delivery," said Joe Eazor. "ERT is already a well-established global leader across the eClinical space, and I am excited to partner with our clients as we further accelerate our journey toward also becoming the end-to-end virtual trial market leader." Jim has led ERT for the past seven years and has over this time expanded ERT's offering with five new business lines, more than tripling group revenue. "I have great admiration for Jim and we will continue to work together on investments outside of ERT. On behalf of the Board I would like to thank him for his contribution to the development and great success of ERT," commented Daniel Berglund of Nordic Capital. About ERT ERT is a leading provider of high-quality patient data collection solutions for use in clinical drug development. ERT delivers a combination of technology, services, and clinical consulting that increase the accuracy and reliability of patient and post approval data across a range of fields including centralized Imaging, Cardiac Safety, Respiratory, and electronic Clinical Outcome Assessments (eCOA) - encompassing patient-, clinician-, observer- and performance-reported outcomes. By efficiently integrating these solutions through a system built from a base of scientific and regulatory expertise, and additionally leveraging cloud-based analytics, ERT collects, analyses, and delivers safety and efficacy data to its customers that are critical to the approval, labelling, and reimbursement of pharmaceutical products. For more information, please visit www.ert.com. About Nordic Capital Nordic Capital is a leading private equity investor with a resolute commitment to creating stronger, sustainable businesses through operational improvement and transformative growth. Nordic Capital focuses on selected regions and sectors where it has deep experience and a long history. Focus sectors are Healthcare, Technology & Payments and Financial Services, and Nordic Capital also invests selectively in Industrial & Business Services. Since inception in 1989, Nordic Capital has invested more than 15 billion in over 110 investments. The Nordic Capital vehicles are based in Jersey and are advised by several non-discretionary sub-advisory entities based in Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Germany, the UK and the US, any or all of which are referred to as Nordic Capital Advisors. For further information about Nordic Capital, please visit www.nordiccapital.com. About Astorg Astorg is a leading independent private equity firm with over 8 billion of assets under management. Astorg seeks to partner with entrepreneurial management teams to acquire market leading global companies headquartered in Western Europe and North America, working together to create value through the provision of strategic guidance, experienced governance, and adequate capital. Astorg enjoys a distinct entrepreneurial culture, a long-term shareholder perspective, and a lean decision-making body enhancing its reactivity. Astorg focuses on global B-to-B companies, in particular software, healthcare, business-to-business professional services, and technology-based industrial companies. Astorg has offices in London, Paris, New York, Luxembourg, Frankfurt, and Milan. For further information about Astorg please visit www.astorg.com. About Novo Holdings A/S Novo Holdings A/S is a private limited liability company wholly owned by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. It is the holding and investment company of the Novo Group, comprising Novo Nordisk A/S and Novozymes A/S, and is responsible for managing the Novo Nordisk Foundation's assets. Novo Holdings is recognized as a leading international life science investor, with a focus on creating long-term value. As a life science investor, Novo Holdings provides seed and venture capital to development-stage companies and takes significant ownership positions in growth and well-established companies. Novo Holdings also manages a broad portfolio of diversified financial assets. For further information please visit www.novoholdings.dk. Drew Bustos VP, Marketing Strategy [email protected] 732-698-4557 SOURCE ERT Related Links https://www.ert.com Even teleprompter could not take so many lies: Rahul's dig at PM Modis Davos speech Rahul Gandhi a 'VIP kisan', sits on sofa on tractor: Smriti Irani India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Oct 05: Union Minister Smriti Irani on Monday ridiculed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as a "VIP kisan" after photographs showed him sitting on a cushioned seat on a tractor during his party's protest rally in Punjab against the Centre's new farm laws. Gandhi is holding a series of tractor rallies named 'Kheti Bachao Yatra' across the Congress-ruled northern state to protest against the three farm laws being seen as major reforms in the agriculture sector. "He is someone who uses a sofa to sit on a tractor. A VIP kisan like him can never support a system which is meant to free small and marginal farmers from the clutches of middlemen," Irani, who had defeated Gandhi in Amethi in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, said here. After Punjab, Rahul Gandhi to hold tractor rallies in Haryana Speaking to reporters at the Gujarat BJP headquarters, the Union textiles and women and child development minister hit out at Gandhi over his comment that the Congress, if voted to power, would scrap the contentious legislations. "His dream of coming to power will never be fulfilled,"The BJP leader said, adding "it is not in his nature to respect parliamentary traditions" as he had torn an ordinance (to protect convicted lawmakers) brought in by the Congress-led UPA government, referring to a 2013 incident. "You cannot expect him to respect our Parliament," Irani asserted. Hathras Case: UP Police files 19 FIRs, ink thrown at AAP MP Sanjay Singh | Oneindia News She said the new laws give farmers the right to sell their produce to anyone, anywhere at the price he deems fit, but the Congress got rattled as its politics is about keeping cultivators dependent on middlemen. Irani claimed people are unable to understand why the Congress was against laws that would ensure farmers get fair and quick payment for their produce. President Ram Nath Kovind has given his assent to the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill; Farmers' (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill; and Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, which were passed by Parliament last month. The Modi government claims these laws will boost growth in the agriculture sector, but critics say the reforms would lead to the exploitation of farmers by big private companies. This very successful online business doesnt compare to what we normally do at an art fair, he explained. But at least it avoids us having a catastrophic year. Mr. Ropac described this years Frieze Week as a very local event and said nobody will come from Latin America, Asia and the United States. As a result, he said, it would be naive to think that it will be anything comparable to what it usually is. At the nearby David Zwirner gallery, Angela Choon, the gallerys London director, said its digital platform and online viewing rooms had been running as early as 2017. The difference now is that works are selling online at higher prices. Zwirners townhouse gallery in London has gone ahead with its long-planned exhibition of paintings by Josh Smith, a New York-based artist who is showing concurrently in the Zwirner space on East 69th Street. Spectre is a selection of Brooklyn streetscapes that were painted during the lockdown, at a time when there was little outdoor life and the city looked deserted. CABORCA, Mexico, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mexus Gold US (OTCQB: MXSG) (Mexus or the Company) announced that its ball mill gravity gold recovery system is now operational. This system will allow the company to run high grade material from the Julio quartz vein at its Santa Elena mine located in Caborca, MX. In addition, the company announced an important discovery concerning gold recovery from its heap leach pad at the mine site. Mexus has been and continues to recover gold from the mineralized material placed on the heap leach pad. The resulting gold production from this work has been variable leading to an analysis of the heap leach pad. It has been found that the salt placed on the pad by the prior operator continues to limit gold recovery. Assays of the cyanide solution returning to the pregnant pond are not representative of the material being placed on the pad. The company decided to remove the material from the top of the heap leach pad down to 2 meters from the bottom and have it assayed. These assays showed that salt is causing issues with gold recovery. The silver in this material, when coming into contact with salt, turns to silver chloride. Cyanide solution with gold reacts with silver chloride and turns the gold to a metallic state inhibiting recovery. The silver chloride found in the bottom 2 meters was assayed and showed an extremely high level of gold value (ounces to the ton). Mexus CEO, Paul Thompson, along with Chief Geologist, Cesar Lemas, determined that the bottom 2 meters of the heap leach pad needs to be removed and run through the ball mill gravity system. Tests have shown that 95% of the gold in the silver chloride material can be recovered using the companys gravity ball mill circuit. This work has already begun. These efforts accomplish two things for the company. First, this allows for gold recovery of highly assayed material at the bottom of the heap leach pad. Secondly, it fixes the heap leach pad allowing for normal and consistent recovery of gold going forward. Mexus will continue to produce gold in the last quarter of 2020. The company was looking to give guidance for the 4th quarter of 2020 but determined that the recent findings have made it difficult to give an estimate. In the near future, shareholders of Mexus can expect an update on both the heap leach and ball mill gravity gold recovery circuits. Mexus CEO, Paul Thompson added, Im excited for gold production in the coming weeks. We believe that a substantial amount of gold trapped on the pad is now going to be recovered. About Mexus Gold US Mexus Gold US is an American based mining company with holdings in Mexico. The fully owned Santa Elena mine is located 54km NW of Caborca, Mexico. Mexus also owns rights to the Ures property located 80km N of Hermosillo, Mexico. This property contains 6900 acres and has both gold and copper on the property. Founded in 2009, Mexus Gold US is committed to protecting the environment, mine safety and employing members of the communities in which it operates. For more information on Mexus Gold US, visit www.mexusgoldus.com. Mexus Gold US (775) 721-9960 Cautionary Statement Forward looking Statement: Statements in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including the failure to complete successfully the development of new or enhanced products, the Company's future capital needs, the lack of market demand for any new or enhanced products the Company may develop, any actions by the Company's partners that may be adverse to the Company, the success of competitive products, other economic factors affecting the Company and its markets, seasonal changes, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The actual results may differ materially from those contained in this press release. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any statements in this press release. Appeal against prolonged detention of entrepreneur accused of embezzlement sent for Oct.6 RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov 14:57 05/10/2020 MOSCOW, October 5 (RAPSI) The First Appeals Court of General Jurisdiction will hear an appeal against extended detention of businessman Vasily Boiko-Veliky in the Credit-Express bank embezzlement case on October 6, his defense attorney Igor Zuber told RAPSI on Monday. The lawyer added that he also turned to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). According to the Investigative Committee, other defendants in the case along with the businessman are bank director Alla Kabanova, chief accountant Maria Antonova and four other employees of Credit-Express Anastasia Novotnaya, Egor Pikhtin, Elena Chuyeva and Natalya Tsipinova. They have allegedly embezzled over 180 million rubles ($2.8 million) and $929,000. Investigators have detected 31 counts of embezzlement, the statement reads. Moreover, investigators are checking facts of withdrawal of assets by granting unsecured and loss loans to legal entities, according to the news release. Boiko-Veliky pleads not guilty. It was a daring leap of faith for 28-year-old Kalmu Raju, to leave the prospects of a well-paying job and return to his village to fight panchayat elections. It was a difficult choice, and not just professionally. He put his life at risk when he decided to fight the polls in Bastars Gangaloor area, which, because it was dominated by Maoists, hadnt seen elections in the previous 15 years. In January this year Raju fought and won the election, becoming the sarpanch of a village in Bijapur area. Raju is not alone. He is one among a new batch of people, Bastars own youth, who despite the adverse circumstances and unimaginable violence, went on to become engineers, lawyers and post-graduates in science. And when panchayat elections were announced, they returned to fight the polls and serve their villages. Local authorities say these young people have raised the morale of the entire administration". And Bastars Lok Sabha lawmaker Deepak Baij says these grassroots public representatives have turned the backward seeming place into a beacon of hope for the entire state". News18 met six such young faces, who are quietly, despite being in the cross hairs of the Maoists, strengthening Indias democratic structure at its most fundamental level. The journey so far has not been easy for any of these young public representatives. In the area from where Raju was elected, which comes under the list of places that have been marked as highly sensitive, Maoists have murdered 36 civilians in the last two months, three of which were public representatives. Twenty of these murders have happened in the past one month alone. Besides suffering this brutal violence, residents of this area are also forced to drink contaminated water, Raju told News18. "In our area there is a huge problem of water contamination. The contaminated water does not only affect the health of people and the farm animals here. It also corrupts our farmlands, the area under cultivation. Facilities in the health and education sectors were almost non-existent when I took charge. I have been trying to work on these areas right now," said Raju. He wanted to go to a city to find a good job in the private sector, he admits, but changed his mind after returning to his village and observing the suffering of his people. So far, he says, he has been able to build a hospital with a capacity of 100 beds in his constituency which has three doctors on 24/7 rotating shifts. "The hospital is helping the villagers a great deal, who otherwise had to travel 50 kilometres just to get to the district hospital in Bijapur to get basic health treatment. We have also enabled and put together a team of 25 local women who have started work on building an Anganwadi school and are going to be working on several other projects as well," Raju told News18. Several kilometres away from Rajus village, in Kalyan district of Dantewada, Phooleshwar Mandavi, who also fought and won panchayat elections, is working in an area marked highly sensitive because of Maoists dominance in the area. He is a postgraduate, MSc (Physics). "My focus since getting elected has been to work on the education facilities in the area. The lack of solid educational facilities, I believe, has been the greatest source of weakness for our people. Because of being a highly sensitive area my Bhuusa Raas block never got schools which resulted in most of the public remaining illiterate. I want to create a new model of education here," 24-year-old Mandavi told News18. As a public representative who wanted to develop educational facilities in the area, her biggest challenge was the lack of high-speed internet. She was forced to utilise the facility that she had - a dusty-old school building. "When we started our classes we realised that we had been teaching, and we ourselves had been taught, the alphabet in a language that was incomprehensible. A for Aeroplane, for instance, doesnt make sense to us because none of us has really seen an aeroplane. So we started reworking the syllabus. We taught them the alphabet with examples like A for Arrow, which the children could relate to," Mandavi said. She wants to save the children from the abyss of uncertainty; anishchitta ki khai", as she puts it. If the children of a place as backward as Bhuusa Raas get at par with the children of cities in terms of education, Mandavi says, It could become a new self-sustaining model of development." Like Raju and Mandavi, Vimla Sori, who finished her LLB course from Jagdalpur last year, is a first-time public representative who is fighting battles on behalf of her people. In the case of Vimla, the main battle is to give ownership of land, where several generations of tribals have been practising farming, to the people. "People here have for ages been expanding the cultivable land by going into forests, in order to get food and earn some money. But this land, which these people have cultivated with their blood and sweat, still on paper does not belong to them. If people get ownership of the land, it will bring a sea change in their lives. It will give them their deserved rights and help them rise out of poverty," Vimla said. Jitendra Sodi, a 27-year-old engineer, has been working among his people for the past five years. After winning the elections in January he has been trying to rebuild the schools that were demolished by Maoists. Shanti Mandavi, a graduate working in Jangala area of Bijapur, is trying to do the same thing. Among the most vulnerable of this lot of public representatives is 22-year-old Rajesh Kumar Gota, who is a panchayat member Aadar panchayat area of Abujmarh, where Maoists are believed to have set up their base camp for the past several years. Gota, who is a diploma holder, also was elected to the panchayat through elections that were held in his area after 15 years. He says that setting up hospitals is his biggest priority, since women in labour find it very difficult to access health facilities in time of need. The mere presence of these first-time public representatives has strengthened the hand of the local administration, officials say. Deepak Soni, the district magistrate of Dantewada, told News18, We have seen a positive attitude in this batch of educated young panchayat members, which has raised the morale of the entire administration. We are planning to come up with several schemes to encourage these public representatives, to create a model out of this unique experiment." Alok Shukla, secretary, department of technical education, Chhattisgarh, told News18, We are doing everything within our means to help the panchayat members in strengthening the education system. For instance in the challenging times of Covid-19, we decided to hold classes in Narayanpur district through loudspeakers as well as through the phone." The Lok Sabha representative of Bastar, Deepak Baij, described how the ground situation in an area believed to be among the most backward in the country, is changing through these young panchayat members. We owe a great deal to our young people who, instead of pursuing lucrative career options in cities, decided to return to their villages and change the ground situation from within. Their commitment to the democratic system, their unity and their devotion towards the people has changed Bastar, from a backward place, to a beacon of hope for the entire state," Baij told News18. New Delhi, Oct 5 : The Centre on Monday informed the Supreme Court that beleaguered business tycoon Vijay Mallya's extradition case is over, but some "secret" proceedings is on in the UK and government is not a party to it, which is delaying his extradition to India. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, contended before a bench headed by Justice U.U. Lalit that it is neither aware of the nature of these secret proceedings nor it is a party to it, and also it has not been served with anything. The Centre' counsel submitted that Mallya's extradition was ordered by the highest court of the UK, yet it is not happening. In May, in a major setback Mallya lost his application seeking leave to appeal in the UK Supreme Court, after the London High Court declined to entertain his appeal challenging the extradition order to India on charges of fraud and money laundering in connection with unrecovered loans to his now-defunct Kingfisher Airlines. The bench asked Mallya' counsel Ankur Saigal to informed the court on the nature of these confidential proceedings and when it was likely to get over. Justice Lalit asked Saigal to inform the court when would his client appear before the apex court so that hearing on sentencing could be done in his presence for contempt of court, for which he has already been found guilty. The top court asked Mallya's counsel to provide answers to these queries by November 2. Saigal said he will take instructions from his client. On August 31, the Supreme Court had dismissed Mallya's plea seeking review of a 2017 judgment which held him guilty for contempt of court. The top court also sought Mallya's presence before the court on October 5. The top court had held him guilty of contempt, as Mallya did not truthfully disclose the full account of his assets. A bench comprising Justices U.U. Lalit and Ashok Bhushan, dismissing the review petition, had said: "In our considered view, the attempt on part of the respondent No.3 (Vijay Mallya) to have re-hearing in the matter cannot be permitted nor do the submissions make out any error apparent on record to justify interference in review jurisdiction. These Review Petitions are, therefore, dismissed." In May 2017, the apex court held him guilty of contempt of court for transferring $40 million to his children, and ordered him to appear on July 10, 2017 to argue on the quantum of punishment. The bench said let the explanation be furnished within two weeks. "The Review Petition shall, thereafter, be considered on merits," it added. In 2017, the apex court passed the order on a contempt petition against Mallya by a consortium of banks led by the SBI. The banks claimed Mallya transferred the $40 million from Daigeo to his children's accounts, and did not use this money to clear his debt. Banks cited this as a violation of judicial orders. --IANS ss/in . -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Minister Byrne welcomes the work of An Taoiseach, Micheal Martin, in relation to the situation in Be Press release Minister Byrne welcomes the work of An Taoiseach, Micheal Martin, in relation to the situation in Belarus An Taoiseach Micheal Martin and Thomas Byrne, the Minister for European Affairs travelled to Brussels at the end of last week for a special meeting of the European Council. As part of the agenda, the Leaders discussed the ongoing human rights situation in Belarus. The European Council reiterated that it does not recognise the results of the recent presidential election, which saw Lukashenko declared the winner. The Leaders condemned the violence by Belarusian authorities against peaceful protesters, as well as the ongoing intimidation, arbitrary arrests and detentions. Minister Byrne commented: An Taoiseach was forthright in his condemnation of the action of the Belarusian authorities. The people of Belarus deserve to have their democratic right to elect a President respected. The actions of the authorities are totally unacceptable and I welcome the agreement reached at the European Council to impose sanctions. In view of efforts by Belarus to reduce the diplomatic representation of some EU Member States, Minister Byrne added: Ireland fully supports the statement of the High Representative on the proposed reduction in Lithuania and Polands representation in Belarus. These measures will weaken EU unity, which was clearly reaffirmed by the European Council last week. ENDS Press Office 5 October 2020 Previous Item | Next Item Satanic Temple sues ad firm over refusal to display abortion ritual billboards Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The Satanic Temple has filed a lawsuit against an advertising company for refusing to display billboards promoting abortion as a sacred religious ritual that "averts many state restrictions." Salem, Massachusetts-based TST filed the suit against Louisiana-based Lamar Advertising, which said it would not display eight billboards near pro-life pregnancy centers in Arkansas and Indiana to promote the Temples ritual that is part of its Religious Reproductive Rights campaign, launched in early August. TSTs suit claims that the companys refusal amounts to religious discrimination. Lamar said it found the content of the ads misleading and offensive, CBN reported. One of the ads shows a bowl of cake batter with the words not a cake alongside an image of a sperm and egg with not a baby written next to it. The ads boast, Our religious abortion ritual averts many state restrictions. While it is understandable to be concerned with forcing a private entity to engage in speech or conduct it objects to, this scenario is different, Satanic Temple co-founder Lucien Greaves said in a press release. Lamar initially agreed to work with us and their rejection appears to be religiously based. In addition, they have a virtual monopoly in certain regions. In this way, Lamar is able to regulate public-speech and they are not permitted to selectively exclude religious voices they object to. While launching its campaign in August, The Satanic Temple, which is recognized by the IRS as a religious organization, posted a video on YouTube, explaining how it planned to use state Religious Freedom Restoration Acts in their favor so women seeking abortions could forego counseling, avoid seeing the sonogram image of their baby or hearing its heartbeat, and refuse to have their babys remains cremated or buried. The video stated that the U.S. Religious Freedom Restoration Act generally prohibits the government from interfering with a persons free exercise of religion, including the performance of religious rituals. The Satanic Temple proclaimed that its religious rituals included abortion, which it said provides spiritual comfort and affirms bodily autonomy and self-worth. Within the states that have enacted the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, religiously performed abortions are exempt from legal requirements that are not medically necessary, The Satanic Temple contended in the video. The group added that it will do all it can to assure that states protect the religious rights of our members to obtain first-trimester abortions on demand, consistent with the view that thy self is thy master. The Satanic Temple is known for taking legal action against state regulations on abortions. Last year, it sued the state of Missouri over a pro-life law requiring women to read literature declaring that the life of each human being begins at conception. The organization failed to prevail, as both the Missouri Supreme Court and the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed the lawsuit. A 45-year-old man, who went fishing on Sunday evening was swept away in sudden flow of water and was marooned on a large rock in the middle of the river in Jharkhands Simdega district, is still waiting to be rescued, officials said on Monday. The incident took place at Ramjol village in Bano block of Simdega district, around 200 km from capital Ranchi and 72-km from Simdega district headquarter. A local person tweeted a video of the stranded man and tagged chief minister Hemant Soren whose retweet set in motion a rescue attempt. A 15-member NDRF team from Ranchi, led by inspector Peter Paul Dungdung headed for Bano this morning to rescue the man identified as Wilson Madki. Simdega superintendent of police (SP), Shams Tabrez, said, Madki went to catch fish along with three other fishermen of the village in the river around 6 pm on Sunday. Madki was swept away in a sudden flow of water in the river while the other three fishermen managed to swim back to the river bank. He said Madki was seen on a rock in the middle of the river after a few minutes of the incident. Since then, he has been there and spent the night on it. A 15-member team of NDRF will be there for his rescue, he said. He said officer in-charge of Bano police station Prabhat Kumar along with Simdega police force has been camping on the spot since last night and they also tried to rescue Madki but without any success. I talked to the director general of NDRF in Delhi, SN Pradhan early this morning and requested for a rescue team. The 15-member NDRF team left for the spot with rubber boats and other disaster related equipment, the SP said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON MOSCOW : The 12th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) Summit will be held on November 17 to discuss partnership among its members for global stability, shared security and innovative growth. According to an official statement issued by Russia's Presidency in the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation), "The theme of the meeting of the leaders of BRICS countries is 'BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth'." The purpose of the Russian BRICS Chairmanship in 2020, as it is for multifaceted cooperation between the BRICS countries, is to contribute to raising living standards and quality of life of our people, the statement said. "Despite the current global situation due to the spread of the coronavirus infection, the activities under the Russian BRICS Chairmanship in 2020 are carried out in a consistent manner. Since January 2020 more than 60 events have been organised, including via videoconferencing," said noted Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to the President of the Russian Federation, Executive Secretary of the Organising Committee to Prepare and Support Russia's SCO Presidency in 2019-2020 and BRICS Chairmanship in 2020.12th BRICS Summit to be held on November 17 The BRICS Summit will be the "jewel-in-the-crown event" of the Russian BRICS Chairmanship, which will provide impetus for further strengthening cooperation together with our partners to ensure the well-being of BRICS countries, Kobyakov added. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. With Bhutan and Kenya added to the list, India now has air bubble arrangements with 15 countries. These include the US, UK, Germany, France, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bhutan, Kenya, Canada, Iraq, Japan, Maldives, Nigeria, Qatar, and UAE. Amid the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, air bubbles are acting as temporary arrangements between two countries to restore commercial passenger services as the regular international flights remain suspended. However, there are many countries, some prominent ones, where Indians are still not allowed. India has 66,26,291 coronavirus cases so far. China Even as China in late August allowed entry of countries such as Malaysia, Japan, Cambodia, South Korea, Laos, Indonesia, Singapore, among others, India is not on the list. The total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Mainland China now stands at 85,470, while the death toll remained unchanged at 4,634. Italy Italy has so far banned entry of people from high-coronavirus risk countries like the USA, India and Russia. The total number of cases in the country stands at 3,25,329. Brazil With a total number of coronavirus cases at 4,915,289, Brazil has banned travel to and from India for high caseloads. Russia Russia had grounded most international flights in late March owing to the coronavirus pandemic. Since then, connections with Britain, Turkey, Tanzania, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and the Maldives, among others have been restored. The country has 12,25,889 coronavirus cases so far. Spain Spain has extended its flight ban to various countries including India to prevent the increased spread of coronavirus. Spain has 8,10,807 cases of coronavirus. South Korea South Korea is only accepting long-stay visa applications as of now. The total number of cases stand at 24,164 so far. Australia The country has recorded 27,149 cases so far. States such as New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia recently agreed to allow more people from permitted countries into hotel quarantine as part of a national cabinet plan to boost the restriction on arrivals to Australia. Also read: India extends ban on international flights till October 31 Government-owned Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) is preparing itself for an initial public offering (IPO) that is likely to be completed by Q1FY22. With a likely valuation of Rs 10 lakh crore, LICs IPO is expected to be the biggest listing in the country so far. The governments plan is to divest up to 25 percent stake in the countrys largest insurer. This process will be completed in tranches, with the initial disinvestment likely to be 10 percent. However, before LIC gets listed on the exchanges , a slew of changes have to be made in the governing structure and books of the insurer. Moneycontrol gives you a lowdown on the changes anticipated. Changes in the LIC Act Once the government receives the Cabinet approval for disinvestment, the amendment Bill of LIC Act, 1956, will be tabled in Parliament. Since Since the monsoon session was cut down, this Bill will be tabled in the winter session. The LIC Act will have to be amended to increase the capital base, ahead of the disinvestment and the listing. The paid-up capital of LIC, which now stands at Rs 100 crore, will have to be increased to offer more shares to the public at the time of listing. Initially, it was expected that LIC will be renamed Company from Corporation. However, sources told Moneycontrol that that if the sovereign guarantee provision has to be retained, Corporation will have to stay. LIC is the only insurer in the country whose policyholders enjoy a sovereign guarantee. This means that there is a government guarantee for every policy sold by LIC. The Companies Act, 2013, does not allow for sovereign guarantee if LIC is renamed Company. Hence, Corporation will be retained. Investment book rejig With SBI Capital and Deloitte being appointed to run the IPO, the initial step would be to look deeper into the investment books. LIC has a balance sheet of Rs 32.8 lakh crore. Unlike traditional companies, insurers have the policyholder investment book and shareholder investment book. Under the policyholder investment book, the premiums collected are invested in the stock market or debt market, depending on the type of products. The shareholder investment size is Rs 685 crore, while the policyholder investment, as of Q1FY21, is Rs 30.1 lakh crore. Similarly, within the investment book, there is a linked fund, life fund and pension fund. Premiums collected in products like traditional plans, unit-linked plans (Ulips) and pension plans flow into these funds for investment purposes. Once the insurer is closer to the IPO, the investment book will be rejigged to clearly demarcate the debt and equity investments in the book, especially in the Ulip portfolio, where investment in both equity and debt are made. LIC and the consultants will work towards the simplification of the book, so that is easier for public investors to understand. Considering the multiple funds and bifurcations, Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) and non-insurance domestic entities will find it tough to understand how LIC invests. Hence, the idea is to show one single data set of how much LIC has invested in debt and equity. Public disclosures Unlike other unlisted companies, insurers already have a high degree of disclosures when it comes to the financial and investment book. However, considering the size of LICs balance sheet, clarity will be needed on the exact nature of investments in listed companies as also in corporate debt, and downgraded investments. These investment details are usually available on the LIC website after every quarter. Considering that the insurer is close to the IPO, LIC will have to display the details of the downgraded investments prominently, and also the action taken against downgrades. An additional requirement would be to state LICs equity stake in all listed companies. IRDAI has now also mandated insurers to state their role in giving approval to board matters in these listed companies and the rationale behind the insurers decision. Given that LIC is the largest institutional investor, the insurer will also be required to prepare this information on a quarterly basis and display it on its website. For instance, in Q1FY21, in LIC's Life Fund, investments worth a total of Rs 1,223.21 crore were downgraded. The downgraded investments included debt instruments of Yes Bank, ECL Finance and GMR Pochanpalli Expressway. Insurance is a long-term instrument and defaults in any instrument can affect returns paid to policyholders. Unlike other sectors, exposure to default instruments cannot be written off. An insurer is required to set aside adequate funds for such future defaults. Way forward Considering the balance sheet and legal changes required before LIC is listed on the exchanges, the original plan of listing in H2FY21 looks unlikely. Global investors warn Indonesia that jobs bill puts forests at risk Smoke covers forest during fires in Kapuas regency near Palangka Raya in Central Kalimantan province By Matthew Green LONDON (Reuters) - Global investors managing $4.1 trillion (3.2 trillion pounds) in assets have warned Indonesia's government that a contentious job creation bill passed by parliament on Monday could pose new risks to the country's tropical forests. In a letter seen by Reuters, 35 investors expressed their concerns, including Aviva Investors , Legal & General Investment Management , the Church of England Pensions Board, Netherlands-based asset manager Robeco and Japan's largest asset manager, Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Asset Management. "While we recognize the necessity for reform of business law in Indonesia we have concerns about the negative impact of certain environmental protection measures affected by the Omnibus Bill on Job Creation," Peter van der Werf, senior engagement specialist at Robeco, said in a statement. With President Joko Widodo's coalition controlling 74% of seats, parliament passed the bill that the government says is needed to improve the investment climate and streamline regulations in Southeast Asia's biggest economy. A coalition of 15 activist groups, including trade unions, have condemned the bill and called for a strike. The investors said they feared the legislation could hamper efforts to protect Indonesia's forests, which would in turn undermine global action to tackle biodiversity loss and slow climate change. "While the proposed regulatory changes aim to increase foreign investment, they risk contravening international best practice standards intended to prevent unintended harmful consequences from business activities that could deter investors from Indonesian markets," said the letter, sent hours before the bill was passed. With concerns over environmental breakdown rising up the investor agenda, some asset managers have begun to take a more public stance in urging governments in developing countries to protect the natural world. In a similar intervention in July, 29 investors managing $4.6 trillion wrote to Brazilian embassies to demand meetings to call on right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro's government to stop soaring deforestation in the Amazon rainforest. (Reporting by Matthew Green; Editing by Ed Osmond) Anhui Conch works with China Telecom and Huawei to roll out 5G smart plant 05 October 2020 A 5G end-to-end smart factory system developed by China Telecom and Huawei is enabling Anhui Conch to reduce its energy consumption and increased its productivity, resource utilisation and profitability, according to Conch Group Deputy General Manager, He Chengfa. It has taken two years to develop and implement the smart factory concept, with the first going into production in Chuzhou, Anhui province. "The cement factory has been transformed into a smart factory end-to-end," said Mr He. "By developing smart energy, our energy consumption can be reduced by two per cent, and labour productivity has gone up by 20 per cent, and resource utilisation by four per cent," he added. Conch Group started with 4G mobile technology in its smart cement factories, but in August 2019 it moved to 5G, working with China Telecom and Huawei. "We piloted 5G in two places, one factory in Chuzhou and the other in Wuhu," said Mr He. Wuhu is about 100km south of Chuzhou. "By marrying artificial intelligence (AI), 5G and cloud, we were able to monitor equipment status. AI enables remote control and operation, manual inspection workload has been reduced a lot and inspection efficiency is tripled and quadrupled." He calculates that "once autonomous driving is rolled out, mining efficiency can be gained by 30 per cent and the operation could become 24/7." "We have collaborated with the China Cement Association and published the 5G Smart Cement Bluebook, detailing the application scenarios for 5G technologies in smart cement factories, using our projects as case study," said Mr He. "If only one of the 40 production lines can be equipped with such technologies, we can gain CNY1bn a year." That's the equivalent of US$146m. "We represent 10 per cent of the Chinese market," he continued. "If the solutions can be rolled out across the industry, the yearly gain will amount to CNY10bn (US$1.46bn)." Published under By PTI KOLKATA: Trinamool Congress Monday refuting allegations of its involvement in the killing of BJP leader Manish Shukla, claimed he was in touch with it and had expressed his desire to return to the party fold. Senior TMC leader and Minister Firhad Hakim said Shukla was forced to join the saffron party last year by BJP MP Arjun Singh. The BJP has dubbed the claim as "baseless". "Manish Shukla's death is unfortunate. I knew him. The allegations that TMC is behind his killing is baseless and an attempt to divert attention from the truth," Hakim told newsmen here. "Shukla was an active member of TMC. He was forced to join BJP by Arjun Singh," he said. Hakim wondered why Shukla was not provided central forces security cover like other state BJP leaders. "Shukla was not happy in BJP. He wanted to return to TMC and has been sending feelers to our leadership for the last few months. We don't know - maybe he was killed because he wanted to return to TMC. "Only investigation will bring out the truth. But we feel he was killed due to infighting of BJP," he said. Shukla had entered politics as CPI(M) sympathiser in 2004-2005 and had switched over to TMC in 2009. He was elected as a TMC councillor in 2015 from Titagarh municipality in North 24 Parganas district. In 2019 he switched over to BJP. Reacting to the TMC claims, Singh dubbed it as "baseless". "The claims that Shukla wanted to return to TMC is not only baseless but laughable. Why would someone get into a sinking ship like the TMC? Firhad Hakim will face publi c protests once TMC is out of power after 2021 assembly polls," Singh said. The saffron party has demanded CBI inquiry to bring out the truth. The state administration has handed over the investigation to state CID. Shukla's death has triggered a full-blown political war between BJP and TMC. The saffron party is blaming TMC for the incident but the ruling party has rubbished the accusation. "It is shameful that the TMC has now started politics of annihilation of political opponents. We don't have any faith in local police as this happened in front of the police station. We want a CBI inquiry," BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said. Senior TMC leader Nirmal Ghosh said the incident was a result of infighting within the BJP and allegations against his party were baseless. (Newser) It was obvious to everyone who witnessed it that the Aug. 4 explosion in Beirut was a devastating one, killing at least 200 people and injuring thousands. Now, a team from the UK's Sheffield University is detailing just how powerful the blast was, per the BBC: They say it was one of the largest non-nuclear detonations ever. In their assessment of the explosion, published last month in the journal Shock Waves, engineers estimated the yield to be between 500 tons and 1,100 tons of TNTmaking the explosion about 1/20th of the size of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945. That type of blast would release enough energy to power more than 100 residences for a year, a release notes. story continues below The scientists conducted their analysis by viewing multiple videos of the explosion that circulated online, following how the blast's shock waves rippled through the city. "Think of it like a kid on a swing," Dr. Sam Rigby, one of the study's co-authors, tells the BBC. "If you push the child and see how far they go, you can then work out how hard the push was. That's essentially how we work out the yield." The engineers hope their research will help planners prep for future emergencies. "When we know what the yield is from these sorts of events, we can then work out the loading that comes from that," Rigby says, calling the explosion a "devastating" one. "And that tells us how to construct buildings that are more resilient." (Read more explosion stories.) JNTT to take its mobile carrier Docomo private in a $40 bn buyout Japanese telecom major Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp (NTT) plans to take its wireless carrier business Docomo private in a 4.25 trillion yen ($40 billion) tender offer for 34 per cent of NTT Docomos common stock that it does not own. The buyout comes as new prime minister Yoshihide Suga calls on wireless carriers to reduce prices, with the government hoping resultant savings will stimulate consumer spending elsewhere in the economy. NTT Docomo, Inc on Tuesday issued a press release entitled `Announcement of opinion in support of the tender offer by Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation, the parent of the company for the stock of the company, and recommendation of tender." NTT is offering JPY 3,900 (or about $36.93) per share (ADS) of Docomos common stock, a premium of 40.5 per cent to Monday's closing price. An NTT release said the company planned to acquire all shares of the common stock through the tender offer, the offeror is required to solicit an offer to buy all share certificates as per regulations. The classes of share certificates, etc to be purchased include the American depositary shares issued in the United States by The Bank of New York Mellon (the Depositary Bank), each of which represents the ownership of one share of the common stock deposited with the Depositary Bank. However, as the ADSs are securities issued in the United States, it is practically difficult for Tokyo-based NTT to acquire the ADSs through the tender offer conducted outside Japan. NTT, therefore, will accept only tenders of the shares of the common stock, and not tenders of the ADSs themselves, in the transaction, but rather tenders of shares of the common stock represented by ADSs. NTT, therefore, has asked the holders of ADSs who wish to tender in the tender offer to surrender their ADSs to the depositary bank and withdraw the shares of the common stock represented by the ADS before tendering the shares of the common stock. According to NTT, as of date, it owned 2,137,733,200 shares of the common stock (ownership ratio, 66.21 per cent), which are listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange, Inc, and the company is its consolidated subsidiary. Since NTT intends to make the company a wholly-owned subsidiary, it has set the minimum number of share certificates, etc to be purchased in the tender offer at 14,686,300 shares (ownership ratio: 0.45 per cent), and if the total number of share certificates, etc tendered in response to the tender offer is less than the minimum number of shares to be purchased, it will not purchase any of the tendered share certificates. NTT spun off NTT Docomo in 1992 ahead of listing in 1998, as the government sought to stimulate competition in the telecoms sector. Buying it back would mark the end of a prominent parent-child listing that are frowned upon abroad yet common in Japan. At $40 billion, NTTs tender offer is among the largest deals this year globally, Refinitiv data showed. Post acquisition, Docomo will no longer be answerable to shareholders. If the government instructs it to cut prices, it will oblige, Jefferies analyst Atul Goyal wrote in a client note. NTT, a former state monopoly, still counts the government as its largest shareholder with a 34 per cent stake. COVID-19 has killed 890 people in Australia, 802 of whom were over 70, 669 of whom were in government-supported aged care. Estimates vary on how many would have died had we not locked down. Its easier to estimate the negative effects of lockdown, because we dont see [the positive effects], says Flinders University health economist Professor Jonathan Karnon. Australians mental health has worsened and the number of children in hospital with anorexia has dramatically increased. But the number of suicides in Victoria has remained steady. How much of the mental health toll can be slated to lockdowns, versus the general anxiety of a once-in-a-generation pandemic? The virus does seem to pose long-term health risks to even the young and healthy, but we wont truly know what those are for years. The same is true for lockdown's long-term damage to childrens education and the job prospects of university graduates looking for jobs amid a recession. GDP fell 7 per cent in the June quarter and the unemployment rate is 6.8 per cent, rising to 14.3 per cent for those aged 15 to 24. By one estimate the national debt will soon be close to $1trillion. But how much of that can be blamed on the lockdown and how much on the pandemic itself? And should we even be worrying about the economy? We also need to be wary of the fallacy of assuming that a small cost to a large group is worth the same, morally, as a very large cost to a small group. Is the long toil of lockdown really equal in suffering to losing a parent years earlier than you might have? Breakey divides the arguments into two schools of thought. Rights-based thinkers believe every life deserves equal protection. Utilitarians believe we should do the greatest amount of good for the most people. But how do utilitarians calculate how to do the most good? Treasurer Josh Frydenberg described Australia's economic crunch as "devastating" in the first recession in about 30 years. Credit:Getty Images Health economists turn to a metric called quality-adjusted life years. QALYs went from a little-known metric to the mainstream after University of Melbourne vice-chancellor Duncan Maskell recently called for them to be used to weigh the costs and benefits of lockdown. It boils down to a basic but very hard moral philosophy: What is the value of a 90-year-olds life versus the value of the continuing livelihood and happiness of a 25-year-old?" he said. Many times a year, drug companies come to the government asking for a subsidy for their new pill. Some of those drugs will be cheap, others expensive. Some will improve many people's quality of life by a slight amount while others will save the lives of a few. The government cannot afford to subsidise every drug for every condition. To choose, it turns to QALYs. Each year of life is valued between 1 and 0, with 1 being full health and 0 being dead. Buried in drug subsidy documents is the price Australia is willing to pay for a drug that saves a single year of healthy life: between $50,000 and $85,000. Rightly or wrongly, QALYs give more value to the years lived by a person in good health versus years lived with a chronic illness. They are often weighted to give more value to younger years. Maybe the cost to [the elderly] should take into account theyve already had a fair innings, says Professor Christian Barry, head of the Australian National Universitys school of philosophy. Is this how we should weigh the costs of lockdown? In terms of QALYs saved versus those forgone? What toll will COVID-19 have on our mental health? Credit: Dr Lennert Veerman, head of the public health department at Griffith University, thinks so. Its the right conceptual framework. I dont like the focus on the economy. We should be focusing on wellbeing. And QALYs are a much closer measure of that than GDP. But even using QALYs, he said, the equation still favoured lockdown. "It is not the lives of the few we are saving. Look at the US or Europe. Not to mention the potential for long-term damage to vital organs like [the] heart and brain," he said. The economy could not function while the virus roamed the streets. Thinking in terms of QALYs forces us to question if all lives really are of the same value. I would rather save a childs life than someone who is 80 years old, someone who has lived a good life already, says Associate Professor Dennis Petrie from Monash Universitys Centre for Health Economics. Despite this, Professor Petrie supports the lockdown. "We are not talking about saving the lives of a few - if we hadn't done the lockdown we could have had daily deaths in the hundreds." Ring-fencing the elderly any more than has already been done was almost impossible, he said. "What is most important from here is that we share the pain created by this pandemic across society - not let any particular communities share too much of the burden it has created." Others are less convinced the metric is useful. Is there a reasonable trade-off between the lives of young people and risks to old people? Credit:Louie Douvis QALYs are used for comparing new treatments with existing practice in a consistent way, not for comparing welfare across patients or for valuing patients' lives, argued Emilia Tjernstrom and a team of economists this week. QALYs inevitably weighs a younger person more. We need to think: are those weights something we as a society want to abide by? says Professor Julie Ratcliffe, president of the Australian Health Economics Society. Are we a caring society? Do we really think older people deserve to die in the way they have been dying in our aged-care homes? Professor Jane Hall is one of Australias most distinguished health economists. She rejects the suggestion that lockdowns are a binary question. Governments can both keep people safe and provide for their needs, with wage subsidies, mental health support and education investment, she says. We make a choice in terms of what support we provide to deal with those. They are not an inevitable consequence of the lockdown. Loading A team of researchers from the University of Melbourne and the Australian National University tried to incorporate every metric they could into a cost-benefit analysis which they published this year. Even then, they could not incorporate long-term health, social and mental health costs. Their model compared the cost of no lockdown with a hard, early lockdown. Economically, a hard eight-week lockdown brings a $51.98 billion hit to the economy, plus extra costs as the economy returns to normal. The model assigns a value of $4.9 million to a full life a figure estimated by Australian government bureaucrats using surveys on how much people are willing to pay to cut their risk of death or injury. Lives over the age of 70 are discounted by 30 per cent. Using that number, a no-lockdown strategy would lead to the deaths of between 18,000 and 25,000 people. Translate that into a cost per life and you get between $62 billion and $86 billion. Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said that the country has prepared a plan to put an end to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Mehr News Agency reported. Iran is closely watching the developments near its northwestern border and is in contact with both parties, Khatibzadeh said on Monday in his weekly press conference. From the day the conflict started, Iran told both parties that there will be no military solution to solve the decades-old dispute. Again while respecting the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and the need to withdraw forces from occupied cities, we stress that military conflict should be halted swiftly for the start of comprehensive political dialogue, he said Iran has prepared a detailed plan in this regard based on the framework that I mentioned, and it will be pursued through consultation with both sides and regional countries, Khatibzadeh added. Urging both parties to an immediate ceasefire, he underlined that Iran will not tolerate any unintentional aggression on its soil. More than 230,000 Queensland public servants have raced to clear up urgent business for the state government as they prepare to go into caretaker mode on Tuesday before the October 31 election. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will visit Governor Paul de Jersey on Tuesday morning to issue the writs, meaning government ministers will no longer be allowed to enter major contracts or make policy decisions that are likely to commit an incoming government. Treasurer Cameron Dick finalised an agreement to keep Virgin Australia headquarters in Brisbane the day before the caretaker period set in. Credit:Albert Perez/Getty Images It was a mad dash for the government to sign off on key deals on Monday, before the campaign proper starts. Treasurer Cameron Dick oversaw a $200 million agreement with Virgin Australia's new owner, Bain Capital, to ensure the airline will keep its headquarters in Queensland for the next 10 years. Despite the ongoing pandemic, TAMIU stated that enrollment did not suffer as a result and showed a small rise from the 8,448 students of Fall 2019 to 8,467 this year, and approximately 4,978 are taking online classes. However, the numbers are still unofficial as they are pending submissions to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. According to the university, this fall, women outnumbered men 62% to 38%. Full-time students also made up 65% of the overall student population, and while 97% of the total number of students were from Texas, 3% were from 30 other countries. Additionally, 64% of the population identify as first-generation meaning they are the first in their family to pursue a higher education, and they are part of a generation that started school during a pandemic. TAMIU provided more details about its students stating that the average undergraduates age is 21, 32 for average graduate and 38 for average doctoral students. Among those students, a 13-year-old and 68-year-old join the rank as the youngest and oldest students. Nationally, the trend has been an average 2.5% decrease. While we always want to see a high enrollment every semester, semesters leading up to the start of the session are crucial to formula funding, TAMIU president Dr. Pablo Arenaz said. What this Fall 2020 enrollment affirms is that despite extraordinary challenges never before seen in our lifetimes, our administration, faculty, staff and students have responded. That response has been a robust affirmation of and commitment to delivering our higher education mission. The legislature will face certain challenges to funding the states needs, but this enrollment affirms that in this part of South Texas, we believe in the importance of our hometown university. Despite these challenging times, thats a message everyone should be able to get behind. Arenaz believes the current enrollment total is a result of three factors including campus commitment, student resilience and the universitys growth. Regarding the commitment, he said that was achieved by providing four instruction models for students that adhere to the health authorities through the city, state and federal level. Second, student resilience and faculty innovation. Our students have a laser-focused desire to realize their educational goal. Through their innovation in teaching, outreach and research, our faculty have supported students goals and made them attainable despite internal and external challenges, Arenaz said. Finally, he explained that adding new degree programs helped generate strong student interest during the year. The university added that while Nursing, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Biology and Psychology were the top five undergraduate majors of the year, the College of Nursing and Health saw a 21% increase to enrollment. Compounding the growing number of enrollments, graduate school student enrollment also increased by 12% with the masters in Business Administration growing by 138 students and the International Business Program doctorate program by 17. In the summer, enrollment also saw an increase of 9.78% in students where all courses were delivered through an online platform. Christian Ocampo may be reached at cocampo@lmtonline.com Senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury on Monday questioned the silence" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the Hathras incident, and said he should coin a new slogan shut up India, hush up India instead of Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Viswas as his hypocrisy has been exposed". Chowdhury, the Leader of the Congress party in Lok Sabha, wondered why the prime minister is silent on the killing and alleged gang-rape of a young woman in Hathras in Uttar Pradesh when he is vocal on every issue from local to global". Modi Ji used to remain vocal in each and every issue from Local to Global but still remains mute on the heart-wrenching incident of Hathras, What is happened to u (you)Modi Ji? Where is your Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikash Sabka Viswash?" Hypocracy (hypocrisy) has been exposed after Hathras," Chowdhury wrote on Twitter. The West Bengal Congress president also said, Modi Ji better a new slogan Shut up India, Hush up India" be coined. Last week, the prime minister had spoken to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and sought strict action against the accused in the Hathras gang-rape case. Meanwhile, West Bengal Congress unit on Monday staged a sit-in in front of the partys state headquarters in protest against the incident, which has triggered a nation-wide outrage. The 19-year-old woman was attacked and allegedly raped by four men in Hathras on September 14. She was referred to the Safdarjung hospital in Delhi with spinal cord injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue. She died around 3 am on Tuesday last week. Her forceful" cremation at an ungodly hour by police also drew criticism from the opposition. Wendy McQuaig has owned and operated her psychotherapy practice in Orillia, Ont., for the better part of her 30-year career. But the last six months have brought many firsts. One was attempting to play Lego with a child during a therapy session on Zoom. Another: taking a call from a client who happened to be on a canoe the only place they were able to find privacy during a cottage trip. These unlikely backdrops for intimate mental health conversations have replaced conventional comfy couches and private psychiatrists rooms across the country, as the COVID-19 pandemic forced many aspects of health care, particularly mental health, onto computer screens. When clients used to come and see me, I would get them a cup of coffee or tea and wed sit in my meeting room, McQuaig reflected. It makes people feel at ease; be able to talk about things on their mind. Now its a little different when youre doing it over a computer. Psychiatrists and psychotherapists like McQuaig have shifted their practice entirely online since March when the coronavirus spread in Canada and social distancing measures became mandatory, relying on Zoom or other telemedicine video chat platforms to connect with clients. Other times, a simple voice call would suffice. Existing virtual mental health-care services, like Talkspace, which offers text messages and therapy sessions, have also seen a spike: Talkspace reported a 65 per cent increase in clients since the pandemic began. Virtual mental health care even received some political support, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announcing in May the allocation of $240.5 million to develop, expand, and launch virtual care and mental health tools to support Canadians, in response to the virus. Provinces have also since added billing codes for psychiatrists offering virtual care visits. COVID-19 has fast-tracked virtual care in a health field that has long hoped for technological advancements to pave the way for remote offerings of services, with a body of research dating back decades that reveals online mental health services could be just as effective as those done in-person. But progress has been slow until the pandemic forced the hands of many to shift operations online almost overnight. Now, a mix of political enthusiasm and necessity under the pandemic has experts wondering: is the future of mental health services virtual? When I did my training at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health about two decades ago, no one talked about telepsychiatry except for a handful of doctors, said Dr. David Gratzer, a psychiatrist at CAMH who recently authored an editorial on the future of virtual mental health in the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. Much has changed, Gratzer said. Every resident at CAMH is now trained in providing mental health services virtually. Despite this, around only 338 psychiatric visits were done online in February at CAMH. By the end of May, that number exceeded 5,000. Gratzer said he believes the slow push toward virtual mental health prior to the pandemic points to a conservative mindset in health care that is traditionally resistant to big changes. Indeed, a report that dates back to 2014 by the Mental Health Commission of Canada said using technology to detect or treat a physical illness is common, but not for mental health problems or mental illness due to significant resistance and misunderstanding. CAMH offered virtual psychiatry visits before the pandemic for a handful of patients who required mental health support but lived in rural areas with no direct access to services, Gratzer said. But for psychotherapists like McQuaig, it was generally rare to see clients virtually. Up until COVID-19, I did everything in person, said McQuaig, who usually sees about 40 clients on a regular basis. She said around a quarter of her clients first decided not to continue with their therapy sessions virtually when social distancing measures were first enforced in March, though about half have since returned to virtual care. I think they were thinking (the lockdown) wouldnt last very long and theyd come back in a month, McQuaig said, proving that some patients have remained virtual out of necessity and lack of options, as most providers have shifted to online services. Others say theyve grown to prefer speaking to their psychotherapist over the phone or video chat instead of going to see them, like Madi Cyr, a 22-year-old Humber student who accesses counselling through the Mindful Living Centre in Milton, typically attending one session a week. I had to originally commute about an hour, because this was one of the centres that was covered by my insurance, said Cyr, who lives in Oakville, adding the commute was difficult to manage between classes. There are some things Cyr misses about in-person counselling, like the routine it gave thema reason to get up early and go out. But waking up has become harder as pandemic and other global worries mount. Still, I now can roll out of bed at 2:55 p.m. and throw on a sweater and PJ pants, and still get some sort of support, Cyr said. So I think for the circumstances, its nice to have. Cyr said not much has changed in terms of how helpful the sessions are. If anything, its nicer because I get to play with my fidget toys and focus and get myself back on track when I need to. There are some technical drawbacks, however, like overcoming faulty technology or a bad internet connection. Cyr said they and their psychotherapist use a combination of telemedicine services to connect, like Doxy.me or VSee, as one may fail on any given day. Sometimes, theyd resort to a voice call. Some have struggled more with virtual care, like Brandon Graziano, a 29-year-old from Kitchener who commuted to Toronto to see his psychiatrist for his bipolar disorder, but has reverted to voice call sessions since the pandemic. A video portal like Zoom was not provided by his psychiatrist for confidentiality reasons, he said. I'm still trying to determine what makes me manic, or what manic me looks like ... so, over the phone its hard to pick up on irritability, Graziano said via e-mail, adding he believes body language plays a big part when it comes to mental disorders a cue his doctor has not been able to identify over mobile sessions. Is it the same? Absolutely not, but it has been beneficial to me by still at least having this phone call. McQuaig said she worried the impersonal nature of a video chat would affect her ability to connect with her clients, who range from children to adults to couples. Shes come to find, however, that seeing them through a screen in their homes has unlocked a new layer of connection. Ive had one little boy show me all his toys, he walked me around his playroom and showed me his action figures, she said, adding seeing people in the places they call home has led her to understand her clients better. Research has traditionally been on the side of virtual mental health care: a study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry in 1999 on telepsychiatry concluded patients had the same amount of satisfaction and ability to develop rapport in both televideo and face-to-face interviews. A similar study on virtual mental health in 2013 found it effective for diagnosis and assessment across age groups, and said it is comparable to in-person care. There are drawbacks, as Gratzer outlines in his Canadian Journal of Psychiatry editorial. Virtual mental health is less proven to be effective for people with severe disorders, Gratzer wrote, largely because many are poorer and have unstable living conditions, which limits their technological access. There are also high dropout rates for psychotherapy methods not guided by a human therapist and concerns about patient privacy, confidentiality and finding service delivery methods that are reliable. But virtual mental health offerings have also expanded access to many in far or remote areas who otherwise wouldnt have access to that same care. McQuaig said since the pandemic, shes picked up more clients from the GTA despite being based in Orillia. As the number of coronavirus cases picks up across Canada and with public health experts confirming Ontario is now in a second-wave of infection, many psychotherapists, including McQuaig, have continued to only offer services online at the moment. Gratzer said a handful of his patients have since returned to in-person sessions, but its too early to tell how many will drop virtual counselling altogether in favour of a return to in-person. He added more research and monitoring of patients experience is needed to inform how virtual mental health care offerings can better be expanded in the future. Provinces, he added, should maintain the ability for psychiatrists to bill for virtual sessions. Ontarios Ministry of Health told the Star in an email that it plans to develop an overarching services framework that will support the development of government guidelines on how to deliver virtual mental health care effectively. Its yet to be seen, however, whether the option will remain popular with patients. But one thing is certain: the pandemic has changed the way McQuaig will offer her psychotherapy services in the future, as she plans on continuing both in-person and online sessions if the threat of COVID-19 vanishes. Its funny, because prior to March, I never did this, McQuaig said. But shifting to virtual, she added, has been a fascinating process her reach has expanded beyond the four walls of her office, allowing her to connect with clients in their bedrooms, their cars, and even their canoes opening up new doors to her practice for years to come. The College Board announced seven UISD National AP Scholar award qualifiers and highlighted their hard work and dedication to their education. As one of the seven, Alexander High School senior Eva Simone Nance said she wanted to be challenged and the AP classes were her best options for a challenging and fruitful high school career that has led to a head start in her college plan. According the AP qualifying guidelines, a student must earn an average score of 4 or higher on a 5-point scale on all AP exams taken and scores of 4 or higher on eight or more of the exams. Nance earned a 4 in four of her exams and five 5s, earning her the National AP Scholar award and more. Nance said she was grateful to have had the opportunity to take her AP classes starting her freshman year. While challenging, the benefits of receiving college credit, the weight of AP classes on her GPA and the aforementioned challenge were the reasons she chose to take them. Taking AP classes my freshman year set the stage for the rest of my high school career, Nance said. I definitely think its challenging, but when you give someone something difficult to do, then they rise to the occasion. As 2020-21 is her final year at Alexander, Nance is planning to attend the University of Texas at Austin to major in electrical and computer engineering or in computer science. I took my first programming course in the summer after seventh grade and I really liked it, but I never had the chance to code again until my sophomore year when I took another AP class, computer Science principles, and I really liked it, Nance said. I really like programming because youre basically solving a puzzle Its interesting to see how with super basic building blocks, you can make a program do really complex things it didnt know how to do before. As she completes her final year in high school, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought inconveniences into her everyday schooling, but that has allowed her to take on a bigger challenge. While Nance said the work is not more challenging, the void that her teacher left by being in a virtual environment has made asking questions more difficult. With the ease of asking a question after class or in private gone, a student may need to speak up during the virtual class which means speaking to the entire class. Coupled with the ongoing monotony of being at the same desk every day, the same amount of work during on-campus instruction feels more burdensome in virtual instruction. Despite the issues, she has taken the pandemic as an additional challenge before going to college. Before, you were dependent on the teacher to tell you everything, she added. You always ask them for help and resources, but with online its more they post it and you find it which does make you more independent. By adapting to the virtual environment and making sure she is diligently checking the teachers posts and her own emails, Nance feels that she and her fellow classmates are getting prepared for their upcoming college experience. While it is still unclear when the COVID-19 pandemic will be over, Nance has worked hard to excel in her education all four years of high school. With the added benefits of opportunities such as AP courses and dual-enrollment classes, she is planning to transfer to UT Austin with most of her basic courses finished and is ready to experience a new university in a new town. Ultimately, she has prepared herself for this year and however more she will need to finish her degree and said that anyone can do it as long as they apply themselves and do the work in front of them. Christian Ocampo may be reached at cocampo@lmtonline.com Donald Trump supporters are holding rallies for the president as he remains in hospital following his Covid-19 diagnosis. Despite the risk of further spread of the virus, footage shows crowds of people, without masks and not social distancing, chanting, We love Trump, outside the Walter Reed Medical Centre where the president is being treated. Hundreds of people attended the impromptu rally, waving flags and banners supporting Mr Trumps presidential campaign. Mr Trump's main doctor, Navy Commander Dr Sean Conley, said in a health update on Saturday night that the medical team treating the president is cautiously optimistic, but warned that the president is not yet out of the woods. He said Mr Trump had been up and around at his medical suite during the day and had been conducting business. Supporters at a vigil for Donald Trump outside Walter Reed Medical Centre (Reuters) Medical experts say the disease can become more dangerous as the body responds to the infection over time. Mr Trump is expected to remain at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for several more days. In a video posted on Saturday from his hospital quarters, Mr Trump said he is feeling better and hopes to be back soon. The presidents diagnosis just a month before the election has thrown his campaign into chaos, with tensions running high across the country. Rallies in support of Mr Trump have been held around the country, with some of them planned before the president fell ill. People gather before a Pro-Trump car caravan in Long Beach, California (AFP/Getty) A procession of boats took to the waterways in Fort Lauderdale, in Florida, and in Long Island, California, a pro-Trump caravan of cars covered in slogans and bearing flags drove through the streets. Trump supporters participate in a boat rally in Fort Lauderdale, Florida (AFP via Getty Images) On Staten Island in New York, hundreds of Trump supporters shouted, Get well soon, before launching into a chant of USA, USA, USA. A supporter prays during a pro-Trump rally on October 3, 2020 on Staten Island in New York City (Getty Images) At a rally in Denton, Texas, a pro-Trump supporter was arrested after he was filmed punching a counter-protester in the face after hearing a song with the lyrics F*** Donald Trump. Denton police had asked for the public's help in identifying the man who committed the assault in a Buc-ee's parking lot. The video, which went viral, shows a man in a hat screaming profanities at the victim and yelling, Turn it off, as the anti-Trump rap song by YG appeared to be playing in the background. The suspect, who was standing with other men who were wearing Trump T-shirts, then punched the victim in the face. The victim suffered a broken tooth and a wound under his right eyebrow, police said. The president used his first Sunday morning tweet to say thank you to supporters who rallied outside the Walter Reed military hospital, where he remains. Additional reporting by agencies In a shocking incident, a group of school students allegedly strip their senior and thrashed him with sticks in Uttar Pradesh's Ghaziabad. The victim, who studies in class 12, was taken to a forested area in a car by four Class 10 students from his school and was assaulted by them. It is learnt that the accused recorded the whole incident and threatened to post it on social media. Police said it is likely he police suspect that the Class 12 student was thrashed over a girl. According to police, the 17-year-old boy had gone to meet a girl, who studies in class 10 in his school. The boy went to meet the girl with two of his friends in his car. As soon as the boy came out of the car to talk to the girl, the four students of Class 10 came out of nowhere and started beating him. The teenager's friends tried to save him but they were also thrashed by the accused. The four boys then forced boy to sit in his own car and made him drive to a forest. The accused boys then stuffed a cloth in his mouth and transferred some of his photographs to his mobile phone. The accused also deactivated all social media accounts of the victims. Live TV The accused also forced the boy to take off his t-shirt and beat him with sticks and belt, reported The Times of India. In his complaint before the police, the boy said that the four accused also recorded a video of the assault and made him confess that he was in a relationship with a girl of the school. A police officer said it seems the four accused had planned the attack well in advance. The accused have been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Paris bars and cafes will shut for two weeks as the city and its region were placed on maximum alert Monday, with Europe facing a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic and the hospitalisation of President Donald Trump throwing the US election campaign into a tailspin. France reported nearly 17,000 new coronavirus cases on Saturday alone, the highest daily number since the country began widespread testing. The shuttering of bars and cafesseen by many as the essence of Parisian lifewere "braking measures because the epidemic is moving too fast," Paris police chief Didier Lallemant told journalists, adding that restaurants will remain open provided they respect new safety measures. These will include making sanitising hand gel available at all dining tables, limiting patrons to six a table with at least a metre (3.3 feet) between seats, and allowing patrons to remove their masks only for eating. Also on Monday, the president of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said she would self-isolate for a day after learning she had met someone infected with COVID-19 last week. Von der Leyen, who turns 62 this week, is not the first senior EU official to be quarantined in recent weeks. Last month the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, was forced to postpone a European leaders' summit for a week after a security guard in his team tested positive. Europe, which has recorded 235,553 deaths, is approaching a caseload of six million out of the more than 35.2 million cases officially diagnosed across the world. The virus has killed at least 1,037,971 people worldwide according to the latest AFP tally based on official sources. Britain remains the worst-hit European country, passing its latest milestone of 500,000 confirmed coronavirus infections on Sunday. Ireland, Russia hesitate Neighbouring Ireland for its part is mulling a nationwide lockdown after a surge of new cases. The National Public Health Emergency Team recommended that the entire country reprise the highest level of COVID-19 restrictions imposed during the original lockdown in March. Russia recorded 10,888 new cases on Sundayclose to a peak reached in Maybut stopped short of reimposing a new lockdown. Spain has decided partial lockdowns for two more cities, Leon and Palencia, after residents of Madrid and nine nearby towns were barred from leaving city limits for any reason other than work, school or medical and legal appointments. While Madrid's regional authorities have criticised the two weeks of restrictions as too stringent, healthcare experts have said they do not go far enough. Europeans despondent over returning to restrictions they had thought were behind them can look to New Zealand's triumph over a second wave in the Pacific island nation. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern declared that her country had "beat the virus again" and announced that restrictions in the largest city Auckland would be eased after a second COVID-19 wave was contained. "Aucklanders and New Zealanders stuck to the plan that has worked twice now, and beat the virus again," Ardern said. Mental health 'forgotten' While the ravages of COVID-19 on the physical and economic life of the planet are clear, the pandemic's devastating effects on mental health have been widely overlooked, the World Health Organization said Monday. A survey conducted between June and August revealed severe disruptions to mental health services in 93 countries, the WHO said ahead of a large fundraising push. "This is a forgotten aspect of COVID-19," WHO mental health director Devora Kestel told a virtual media briefing. Meanwhile as Trump began his fourth day in hospital on Monday, doctors said they would decide later in the day whether he could be discharged. With a tough election campaign against Democratic rival Joe Biden in its final month, Trump and his advisors have sought to project a sense of continuity. The US president, who was flown Friday to Walter Reed hospital outside Washington, released videos and photos of himself and made a drive-by appearance to supporters gathered outside the facility. He said he had "learned a lot about COVID" by "really going to school" as he has battled the virus. Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 2020 AFP NEW ORLEANS Hurricane Laura damaged nearly 1,900 graves in Louisiana, but fewer than 25 families have asked for help with them, officials say. Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landrys office has surveyed 127 cemeteries in nine parishes, and found about 1,880 damaged graves in 89 of them, spokesman Cory Dennis said in an email Friday. Damage included about 50 caskets swept from tombs by the hurricane that hit land Aug. 26 in southwest Louisiana, he said. We have had less than 25 inquiries, he wrote. In a news release Sept. 25, the Attorney Generals Office asked affected families to call or email. The Louisiana Department of Justice has been leading the States cemetery recovery efforts, it said. Those, it said, have ranged from locating, gathering, and identifying displaced caskets and vaults, damaged tombstones, and even human remains to getting them to their appropriate places. People who need help finding or fixing a grave damaged by Hurricane Laura should call 225-326-6056 or email cemeterytaskforce(at)ag.louisiana.gov, Landry said. The Federal Emergency Management Agency can help pay for fixing graves and returning caskets in one of the 20 Louisiana parishes declared major disaster areas because of the storm, a news release said. Oct. 27 is the deadline for applying for all FEMA assistance with damage from Hurricane Laura in Louisiana. FEMA said such aid can include money for transferring remains and for damaged caskets, containers, vaults, urns, headstones or markers. FEMA can also help with costs for identifying and for reinterring them. FEMA spokespeople in Texas did not immediately respond to a phone message and email asking if there was also such damage and aid available there. The Louisiana Attorney Generals Office has checked cemeteries in Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jackson, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vermilion and Winn parishes, Dennis said. The federal disaster declaration for individual aid also includes Acadia, Caddo, Grant, Jefferson Davis, La Salle, Lincoln, Morehouse, Ouachita, Sabine, St. Landry, Union, and Vernon parishes. The state Department of Justice certifies to FEMA that the damages the applicant claims occurred actually did, then works with the family on repair logistics, Dennis said. That can range from replacing a damaged tombstone or (something) more complicated like a displaced casket. In these cases, we assist the family in working through the process of replacing the casket and ensuring their loved one receives a proper interment, he wrote. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. We was booked to go in November but my babys due then so BA wont allow me to fly (very unexpected pregnancy as was told we couldnt have children). BA told us we had to reschedule within a certain time so we opted for March at first they wasnt going to allow it this far in advance but I said we was told we have until our departed date 12 months and was told we was informed incorrectly its from when you book the flights so as we booked end of jan this year they would only give us till the jan date. I said we would have a baby and this wouldnt give us time to register and sort passport they said latest we can do is March so we are suppose to be going 1st March. I spoke to the hotel which is the casaurina and they have said up until end of November its being used as quarantine but in December they are doing a full deep clean of the hotel and said by March it would be fine. Not sure what will happen in that time though. Damon Parker Terrelle, 17, has been arrested in connection with the September 27 shooting of Douglas Albert Reese, a 29-year-old Detroit man, near Erebus haunted house in downtown Pontiac. According to the Oakland County Sheriffs Office, Terrelle was taken into custody Oct. 3 near the Michigan-Indiana border by the Oakland County Fugitive Apprehension Team and the United States Marshals Service. Hes now in the Oakland County Jail, denied bond. Terrelle is charged with first-degree murder, punishable by life in prison, possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony and carrying a concealed weapon. The sheriffs office said he has no prior criminal history. According to the sheriffs office, Reese was shot in the Erebus parking lot, located at 18 S. Perry Street, after he and Terrelle had a dispute while standing in line for the haunted house. The sheriffs office said a witness reported that just before the shooting, the two had exchanged words due to Terrelle, who was standing in front of Reese and his girlfriend, wouldnt move. Terrelle reportedly thought Reese had cut in line in front of him, the sheriffs office said. Terrelle and Reese then went separately to the parking lot and gunshots were heard, and a witness reported a blue sedan fled then fled the scene at a high rate of speed, the sheriffs office said. Reese was shot in the side, neck and chest and subsequently transferred by Star EMS to McLaren-Oakland Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Terrelles next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 13, when a probable cause conference will be held before Judge Ronda Fowlkes Gross of 50th District Court. ALSO SEE: A 42-year-old woman was hacked to death by a man in Chaupurwa village under Saraiakil police station of Kaushambi district on Monday morning. The accused tried to flee but was nabbed by the villagers, said police. According to police, Suresh Kumar used to work as a labourer but he had been on the bed for the last two years after being paralyzed. His wife Shivkumari used to beg alms for a living. In the wee hours of Monday, Shivkumari was going towards the fields when one Ashok Kumar allegedly attacked her with a chopper multiple times. Villagers rushed to the scene after they heard Shivkumaris cries and tried to rescue her but she had died by then. The accused, Ashok, tried to escape from the spot but was overpowered by villagers and was handed over to the police. Also read: Covid-19 disrupting mental health services in most countries - WHO survey Saraiakil police reached the scene and sent the womans body for post-mortem examination. The accused has been arrested and the weapon used in the murder has also been recovered. He is being questioned further to ascertain the motive behind the murder, said Vijay Vikram, station house officer (SHO) Saraiakil police station. Youth shot at over petty issue In another incident, a youth was shot at by his neighbour in a dispute over construction of a gate in Beli area under Cantonment police station of Prayagraj city on Sunday night. The injured was admitted to a hospital and an FIR has been lodged against one named and some unidentified persons, police said. According to police, Amit Yadav of Beli was constructing a gate to which his neighbour Bhaiyyalal Srivastava objected. After an argument, both groups clashed. Cantonment police reached the spot and took both groups to police station. However, they again clashed when they were released after a warning in the night. It is reported that Bhaiyyalal opened fire at Amit with a country-made pistol, resulting in bullet injuries to him in the chest. SP (city) Dinesh Kumar Singh said that raids were being carried out to arrest the assailant. India: How has Indias shrimp sector weathered the Covid-19 crisis? October 05,2020 | Source: The Fish Site The coronavirus pandemic has adversely impacted aquaculture production across the globe. The economic fallout from nationwide stay-at-home orders and slowed export flows affected all segments of the aquaculture value chain. For farmed shrimp, lockdowns and closed food services have been catastrophic, especially in India. According to a paper published in Aquaculture, researchers with Indias Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (CIBA) estimate that the sector will face a $1.5 billion loss for 2020-2021 due to the pandemic. After conducting multiple surveys and interviews with key stakeholders, the research team at CIBA mapped the pandemics economic shocks to the farmed shrimp sector. The study found that Covid-19 outbreaks and restrictions negatively impacted each link of the industrys supply chain. Shrimp hatcheries, farms, processors, retailers and exporters lost an estimated 30 to 40 percent of their business in the wake of Indias lockdown. After conducting multiple surveys and interviews with key stakeholders, the research team at CIBA mapped the pandemics economic shocks to the farmed shrimp sector. The study found that Covid-19 outbreaks and restrictions negatively impacted each link of the industrys supply chain. Shrimp hatcheries, farms, processors, retailers and exporters lost an estimated 30 to 40 percent of their business in the wake of Indias lockdown. Though the initial assessment is dire, the researchers note that targeted policy protections for the sector could keep businesses afloat through the first wave of the pandemic. Officially classing aquaculture as an essential activity, enforcing economic protection measures like price controls and allowing producers to keep workers on the payroll during future lockdowns could keep firms solvent through the winter season. Indias coronavirus outbreak and the shrimp sector At the end of September 2020, India has confirmed more than 6.22 million positive cases of Covid-19 and recorded more than 97,000 deaths. Its lockdown, which began on 25 March, included movement restrictions and mothballed multiple sectors of the economy. Most of Indias workforce had to stay at home for the duration of lockdown. Though it is currently undergoing a phased reopening, the economic impacts of the stay-at-home orders caused a multi-faceted shock to Indias food value chain that is still ongoing. India is the worlds third largest shrimp producer and the industry brings in an estimated $5 billion of foreign exchange earnings every year. The country exports 90 percent of its shrimp, with the United States, European Union, China and Japan receiving most of the shipments. Economists estimate that the sector employs 1.2 million people across the value chain from farming, processing, retailing and exporting. For Indias shrimp farmers, the lockdown was announced at the beginning of its summer farming season (between March and July). This period usually yields 60 percent of Indias annual shrimp production, with the winter crop (between August and December) making up the remainder. Inter-state and intra-state movement are key to Indias shrimp sector. Farming, processing, feed production and research activities are concentrated in different regions. The industrys structure meant that lockdown restrictions left it vulnerable to labour shortages and market shocks. To say the sector was unprepared for Covid-19 is an understatement. Value chain analysis: from seed to sale Seed production and supply The biggest impact on shrimp hatcheries came from manpower shortages especially for skilled technicians. Though many sectors across India complained of reduced labour availability between March and June of this year, agriculture and aquaculture are particularly vulnerable to labour squeezes. Shrimp production cycles are inflexible and time-dependent. A sudden dearth of skilled labour meant that hatcheries struggled to fulfil their contracts. A second-order impact of the lockdown was seen in the precipitous drop of consumer and export demand for shrimp. Since hatchery owners couldnt be sure there would be future buyers for shrimp larvae, holding on to unsold post-larval shrimp meant taking a steep loss. The researchers reported that most shrimp hatcheries discarded their available seed stock due to economic uncertainty. An additional constraint for shrimp hatcheries is their dependence on specific pathogen-free (SPF) broodstock. Like most international cargo, imports of SPF broodstock were temporarily suspended during lockdown. Hatchery operators told the researchers that Indias existing broodstock supply couldnt meet their needs they typically make up the shortfall with imports. This caused a stoppage at the first link in the shrimp aquaculture value chain. The subsequent weakness caused a ripple effect through the rest of the sector. Lockdowns impact on shrimp farmers and shrimp farming Indias lockdown came into force at the end of the first month of the summer season. Researchers found that 27 percent of farmers who had prepared shrimp ponds for stocking didnt finish the three-phase production cycle. When speaking to farmers, the researchers noted that producers had difficulty obtaining production inputs like feed and seed and demand for finished shrimp was unpredictable. 25 percent of farms were in phase one (less than 30 days into the culture period) when lockdown began. 34 percent were in phase two (their shrimp had had between 30 and 80 days of growth) and 14 percent were in phase three (in which their shrimp had spent more than 80 days in the pond environment). Farms in phase three told researchers that they were able to make a small profit or break even, but others werent as lucky. Some producers reported panic harvesting small shrimp to sell at a discount to avoid bigger losses in the future. However, these distress sales werent always effective: producers couldnt access insulated trucks or labour to harvest and transport the shrimp. Even when a contract was agreed, movement restrictions meant that producers couldnt access processors or market their goods. Many farmers were forced to take a loss for the summer crop. Farmers listed closed diagnostic labs as an additional challenge during lockdown. Farmers often rely on these labs to monitor water quality and shrimp health during the production cycle. Losing access to that data and monitoring capacity meant that farmers couldnt easily manage their water quality or identify disease outbreaks during the culture period. Like hatchery operators, farmers had difficulty recruiting and retaining labourers during lockdown. Official movement restrictions and farmers inability to guarantee wages or job security caused a severe labour shortage. Production slowed as a result. Processing and marketing Seafood processors told researchers that manpower shortages were their primary constraint. Migrant workers who make up the bulk of Indias skilled labourers at processing plants returned home during lockdown. This not only slowed processing times, but also decreased shrimp quality after they were processed. Requirements for social distancing and securing personal protective equipment (PPE) for labourers were further challenges for seafood processors. Many of the other constraints facing processors were knock-on effects from the first two links in the shrimp value chain. Some processors told the research team that many shrimp orders werent large enough to justify running the processing equipment. The fact that many farmers panic harvested shrimp that were too small to be mechanically processed compounded the issue. Processors also said that the sudden nosedive in export orders put a strain on Indias cold storage facilities. Unsold inventory began accumulating in key ports as buyers for Indian shrimp closed their food service sectors. Further procurement couldnt take place. Though researchers noted that the state government of Andhra Pradesh enacted a minimum procurement price for difference sizes of harvested shrimps to stabilise the market, study participants said the policy wasnt strictly enforced. Processors often refused to pay the fixed prices, telling farmers that the shrimp was poor quality. The estimated impact of Covid-19 The researchers estimate that pandemic-related disruptions caused a 30 to 40 percent drop in each component of the shrimp aquaculture value chain. In economic terms, this could amount to $1.5 billion loss for 2020. The biggest decline was attributed to shrimp exports projected export volumes for 2020 are almost 40 percent lower than they were in 2019. The decline in exports is putting pressure on shrimp prices researchers expect a 35 percent reduction before 2021. The research team also expects a 30 to 40 percent reduction in labour resources in the sector due to supressed farming and processing activities. Their analysis also warns that these effects could be compounded if India experiences a second wave of Covid-19 and must contend with another lockdown during the winter shrimp season. Rebuilding after the shock The researchers note that Indian government attempted to mitigate the worst effects of the pandemic. Shortly after locking down, fish farming and processing were categorised as essential activities, allowing some businesses to keep operating, even if it was at reduced capacity. Officially designating key points of the aquaculture value chain as essential will insulate the industry from the economic shock of lockdowns. However, governments should consider other protections for shrimp aquaculture. Though initial efforts to set minimum prices for farmed shrimp saw limited success, additional enforcement efforts could turn this into a key protection for shrimp farmers and improve forecasting for processors. The research team highlighted the Fisheries Development Scheme as a potential way to make the sector more resilient. The programme is part of a five-year blue development initiative that wants to ramp up investment in Indias aquaculture value chain and provide incentives for sustainable fish farming. If this policy intervention focuses on employment generation as well as economic security for producers, many of the losses stemming from labour shortages could be mitigated. Increasing protections for labourers in the sector would also go a long way to prevent the manpower shortages seen in the first lockdown. If hatchery, farming and processing labour becomes more formal and stable, the businesses will be able to keep workers and potentially stay afloat if a different crisis emerges. Hathras Politics: Congress party will hold 'Satyagraha' in the states and district headquarters across the country on the morning of Monday. Rajasthan Congress and DMK will also protest against UP govt today. UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath has written to centre recommending a CBI probe into the matter. Taking the battle to next level, Congress Party will be holding a silent sit-in at the state and district level across the country as part of the partys protest demanding justice for the victim and her family in Hathras incident. Rajasthan Congress and DMK will also hold protests today. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has written to centre recommending a CBI probe into the Hathras matter. Uttar Pradesh government is receiving massive backlash since Hathras victim was cremated by cops in the night, nationwide protests are being carried out against Yogi Adityanath led UP government. Congress General Secretary (Organisation) and MP KC Venugopal said that the brutal gangrape and murder of a Dalit girl from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh has shaken the conscience of the nation. As part of the protest, the Pradesh Congress Committees will do Satyagraha at Mahatma Gandhi or Babasaheb Ambedkar statues and any other place of significance, in state and district headquarters against the brutal and arbitrary actions of the UP Government, demanding justice for the victim and her family. Also read: Kheti Bachao Yatra: Wont let them destroy farmers, says Rahul Gandhi Also read: Hathras Politics: Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar meets victims family He said that the brazen inhumanity and illegal high handedness shown by the BJP Government of Uttar Pradesh in denying basic dignity to the victim even in death and afterwards towards the family had left everyone beyond shock. He said that after continued pressure from Congress party, on October 3, when thousands of workers, MPs and senior leaders led by Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi announced to leave for Hathras, the UP administration relented and allowed only 5 leaders to meet the victims family. He added that Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi not only met and heard the familys agony and injustice done to them but also ensured all-out support in carrying out an impartial investigation. He said that they promised to do whatever possible so that no daughter feels insecure and nobody however small, feels helpless. Venugopal said that Congress party has resolved to relentlessly fight against arbitrary and unconstitutional ways of the Yogi Government and ensure justice to the victim and her family. He said that in their continued effort to provide justice to the family of Hathras victim, the Congress party had decided to hold Satyagraha in the states and district headquarters across the country on the morning of Monday, (October 5, 2020). Senior leaders, MPs, MLAs and office bearers, party functionaries and ordinary workers will be participating in the Satyagraha, in full strength. On Saturday, Priyanka Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi reached Hathras in the evening after the UP administration conveyed that a group of five persons can meet the victims family. Both leaders met the victims family. The 19-year-old Hathras girl died at Delhis Safdarjung hospital on September 29, a fortnight after allegedly being gang-raped. All the four accused in the incident have been arrested. The Uttar Pradesh government has ordered CBI probe into the matter and suspended police officials. The post-mortem report reads that the victim suffered a fracture of C6 cervical vertebra and there was extravasations of blood along the fracture line and the underlying spinal cord was contused with ascending oedema. Also, the postmortem report denies rape charges. Also read: Government to cover 20-25 crore people by July 2021: Harsh Vardhan on Covid-19 vaccine The highly anticipated premiere of director Denis Villeneuve's remake of Dune is going to be pushed nearly a year, according to a new report from Deadline on Monday. Warner Bros. was set to release the upcoming film adaptation of Frank Herbert's sci-fi novel on December 18 but will now reportedly be delaying things until October 1, 2021. The postponement follows the news that movie theater giant Cineworld and Regal Cinemas were shuttering because of the pandemic. Delay: The highly anticipated premiere of director Denis Villeneuve's remake of Dune is going to be pushed nearly a year, according to a new report from Deadline on Monday Fans who were excited to see the latest reworking of the 1984 flick will likely be disappointed by the delay, especially considering that the studio dropped the first full trailer for the film in early September. The remake boasts an all-star cast including Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Jason Momoa, Dave Bautista, Josh Brolin, Rebecca Ferguson, Oscar Isaac, Stellan Skarsgard, Javier Bardem and Charlotte Rampling. It's been a rough series of blows for movie lovers amid the pandemic and just last week the world's second-biggest theater operator, Cineworld/Regal, announced it was closing down all screens in the United States and the United Kingdom. Cineworld chiefs have blamed the decision, which is expected to be a temporary measure until next year, on the postponement of big budget films in the wake of coronavirus pandemic. Next year: Warner Bros. was set to release the upcoming film adaptation of Frank Herbert's sci-fi novel on December 18 but will now reportedly be delaying things until October 1, 2021 Dune follows Paul Atreides, the son of a noble family entrusted with protecting the most valuable element in the galaxy, as they battle against their own 'extermination'. Atreides and his family embark on a trip to desert mining planet Arrakis to oversee the extraction of melange, the most valuable substance in the universe. A royal decree awards Arrakis to Duke Leto Atreides and ousts his bitter enemies, the Harkonnens. However, when the Harkonnens violently seize back their freedom, it is up to Paul, Leto's son, to lead the Fremen, the natives of Arrakis, in a battle for control of the planet and its spice. Industry in peril: The postponement follows the news that movie theater giant Cineworld and Regal Cinemas were shuttering because of the pandemic In the trailer, fans see Paul begin to train for his battle when he is put to a terrifying test by a veiled teacher, Gaius Helen Mohiam, played by Charlotte Rampling. 'The test is simple,' she says revealing a small dark box. 'Remove your hand from the box and you die.' A razor sharp needle is held to his throat by the woman as he slides his hand into the contraption. 'What's in the box?' he calmly asks despite the risk of death. The answer: 'Pain.' While fans don't see the evils inside of the small device, it's evident that something horrifying is happening as Paul lets out a blood curdling scream. Plot: Dune follows Paul Atreides [Chalamet], the son of a noble family entrusted with protecting the most valuable element in the galaxy, as they battle against their own 'extermination' Gaius Helen Mohiam is the 'leader of the powerful all-female secret society known as the Bene Gesserit, has come to the planet Caladan to test young Paul Atreides,' according to EW. The outlet spoke with director Denis Villeneuve about the action packed trailer and he explained that her grotesque challenge with the needle and box is one of the most important turning points for the story. 'Is the mental part of him stronger than the animal part? That was very important for [Dune author] Frank Herbert,' Villeneuve explained. 'At some point in the Dune history, the human brain will reach a level of control where there's no more computers in that universe, so the brain is trained to be able to make insane calculations and have control over your body.' Guide: Brolin's character Gurney Halleck trains Paul for battle in the trailer for the film which was released by Warner Bros. last month The director added: 'Paul, having some Bene Gesserit training, needed to be tested to see if he can use this power for the good of humanity.' The full trailer gave fans their first real horrifying look at the sandworms in action, rising from the ground like a giant succubus. 'I must not fear, fear is the mind killer,' Paul says at the end of the trailer. The look of the sandworms have been digitally upgraded from the 1980's film and are just sucking, holes with stringy rows of teeth destroying things in its path. What to expect: The full trailer gave fans their first real horrifying look at the sandworms in action, rising from the ground like a giant succubus While speaking with EW, the director called the sandworm: 'a fantastic central figure of Dune's story that massive creature that lives in the deep desert, so when we were creating the worm I tried to create a lifeform that you will totally believe can go and survive in this land.' 'So of course it has to have some prehistoric quality to it, because it's living in the most rough environment. It was a lot of dreaming. We took our time with it,' he explained. 'I deeply love the worm we came up with. It was important for me to understand that this huge creature has a soul, to understand that it is revered as a god-like figure.' Yikes: While speaking with EW, the director called the sandworm: 'a fantastic central figure of Dune's story that massive creature that lives in the deep desert, so when we were creating the worm I tried to create a lifeform that you will totally believe can go and survive in this land' Dune was written by Frank Herbert in 1965 and was named in 2003 as the best-selling science-fiction novel of all time. It was previously adapted into the 1984 feature film of the same name by writer-director David Lynch, starring Kyle MacLachlan as Paul Atreides. There was also a 2000 mini-series adaptation that starred William Hurt. This new Dune adaptation is directed by Denis Villeneuve (Blade Runner 2049, Arrival), from a script he co-wrote with Eric Roth (Munich) and Jon Spaihts (Doctor Strange). Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinas President Xi Jinping will come face-to-face during the annual BRICS summit on November 17 for the first time since the standoff between troops of both countries along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. Russia, the chair of the five-nation BRICS, announced on Monday that the annual summit of the bloc will be held on November 17 via video conference. The BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) is known as an influential bloc that represents over 3.6 billion people, or half of the world's population. The BRICS countries have a combined GDP of USD 16.6 trillion. "The theme of the meeting of the leaders of BRICS countries is 'BRICS Partnership for Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth'," the Russian government said in a statement. Both Prime Minister Modi and President Xi have attended all summit meetings of the BRICS in the last few years. Modi and Xi are attending the virtual summit, said a diplomat, involved in the arrangements for the multilateral event. Last year, the BRICS summit had taken place in Brazilia, the capital city of Brazil. Modi and Xi also held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the summit. India and China are locked in a bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh since early May that has significantly strained the bilateral ties. Both sides have held a series of diplomatic and military talks to resolve the row. However, no breakthrough has been achieved to end the standoff. The Russian statement also said, "this year the five countries have continued close strategic partnership on all the three major pillars: peace and security, economy and finance, cultural and people-to-people exchanges." Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin, said despite the current global situation due to the spread of the coronavirus infection, the activities under Russia's BRICS chairmanship were consistent. "Since January, more than 60 events have been organized, including via videoconferencing. The BRICS Summit will be the jewel-in-the-crown event of the Russian BRICS chairmanship, which will provide impetus for further strengthening cooperation together with our partners to ensure the well-being of BRICS countries," Kobyakov said. On September 17, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval attended a virtual meeting of top security officials of five-nation grouping BRICS. The 10th meeting of the NSAs of the grouping was attended by Chinas State Councillor Yang Jiechi and senior security officials from Russia, Brazil and South Africa, officials said. (With PTI inputs) SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- StradVision will reveal its new Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) solution for automotive surround view monitoring at NVIDIA's 11th GPU Technology Conference (GTC) 2020 . The annual event, held online from October 5 to 9 this year due to COVID-19, has previously attracted more than 45,000 registered attendees. It brings together industry leaders, specialists, developers, researchers, engineers, and innovators looking to enhance their skills, exchange ideas, and gain a deeper understanding of how AI will transform their work. Available to GTC's registered attendees as an on-demand presentation, StradVision Platform Engineer Kukhyun Cho's session will explain how the company's flagship product SVNet works with Surround View Monitors (SVMs) to form an accurate, 360-degree visualization of a vehicle's environment. Through a process called Edge Blending, the image edges from front, rear, left, and right cameras are seamlessly fused into one combined image. This vision solution enables ADAS functions such as Automated Valet Parking (AVP) or Advanced Parking Assist (APA), using object detection, distance estimation, free space detection, and parking space detection. Cho will also expand on how StradVision integrates six SVNet networks with SVM onto NVIDIA's Jetson Xavier system-on-chip (SoC) with TensorRT, a software development kit for deep learning inference. Known for its superior computing capabilities that are ideal for use with deep learning networks, the powerful Xavier AI platform enables SVNet to run the most advanced automotive Level 2 features, while generating a small footprint that will not overwhelm a vehicle's ADAS. SVNet is a lightweight software that allows vehicles to detect and identify objects accurately, such as other vehicles, lanes, pedestrians, animals, free space, traffic signs, and lights, even in harsh weather conditions or poor lighting. The software relies on deep learning-based embedded perception algorithms, which compared with its competitors is more compact and requires dramatically less memory and electricity to run. SVNet supports more than 14 hardware platforms and can also be customized and optimized for any other hardware system thanks to StradVision's patented and cutting-edge Deep Neural Network-enabled technology. StradVision's software is currently deployed in 8.8 million vehicles worldwide, such as SUVs, sedans, trucks, and self-driving buses, and maintains partnerships with leading global automotive Tier 1 suppliers and five of the world's top auto OEMs. StradVision's global partners include Aisin Group, Hyundai Motor Group, LG Electronics, Texas Instruments, Renesas, Qualcomm, Xilinx, Socionext, Ambarella, and BlackBerry QNX. StradVision has obtained certifications including China's Guobiao, the coveted ASPICE CL2 (Automotive Software Performance Improvement and Capability Determination Containment Level 2) certification, and most recently the internationally recognized ISO 9001:2015. The company also bagged the Grand Prize in the Electric/Electronic Category at the 14th Korea Patent Excellence Awards. About StradVision Founded in 2014, StradVision is an automotive industry pioneer in AI-based vision processing technology for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The company is accelerating the advent of fully autonomous vehicles by making ADAS features available at a fraction of the market cost compared with competitors. StradVision's software is being deployed in 8.8 million vehicles worldwide and is serviced by their over 140 employees in Seoul, San Jose, Tokyo, and Munich. The company received the 2020 Autonomous Vehicle Technology ACES Award in Autonomy (Software Category). StradVision's software is certified to the ISO 9001:2015 international standard. Media Contact Root Communications for StradVision Inc. Email: [email protected] Tel: +1 (347) 508-3103 SOURCE StradVision Related Links https://www.stradvision.com El-Tayyeb warned against the impact of such remarks, saying 'this uncivilised behaviour against religions builds a culture of hatred and racism and breeds terrorism' The grand imam of Egypts top religious authority Al-Azhar has condemned what he described as the irresponsible remarks recently made about Islam. Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayyeb's statement, which was posted on Facebook in Arabic, English and French, is believed to be in reference to recent remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron. In a controversial speech last week, Macron announced that France has put in place a strategy to fight what he called Islamic separatism within the country, and said he would send a bill to France's parliament early next year to that effect. El-Tayyeb said that the recent comments about Islam come at a time when effort are being made with wise people in the West to promote citizenship and coexistence. He added that the remarks were made to achieve flimsy political gains at the expense of Islam. El-Tayyeb warned against the impact of such remarks, saying this uncivilised behaviour against religions builds a culture of hatred and racism and breeds terrorism. Macrons planned bill would impose tighter controls on funding for mosques and severely restrict home-schooling to prevent children from being indoctrinated by unregistered schools that deviate from the national curriculum, the French president said. The measures also include banning the appointment of imams from Turkey, Morocco and Algeria, who Macron are usually linked to Salafism or the Muslim Brotherhood group. He said the imams will instead be trained in France so they can learn the language and the laws of the state. There is a crisis of Islam everywhere, which is being corrupted by radical forms, Macron said. The problem is an ideology which claims its own laws should be superior to those of the Republic, Macron said, adding that he seeks to build an enlightened Islam in the European country. In a statement on Saturday, Al-Azhars Islamic Research Academy, which works to reform Islamic culture and safeguard it from political and ideological intolerance, said Macron has directed false accusations that have nothing to do with the true context of religion. Search Keywords: Short link: DETROIT, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- New technology from INFICON soon will allow automakers and battery suppliers to reliably test critically important electric-vehicle battery cells for the first time. Faulty battery cells can dramatically shorten battery life, increase warranty costs, affect customer satisfaction and damage product reputation, as well as create safety-and-drivability problems. Billions of lithium-ion battery cells are produced annually for use in electric, hybrid-electric and autonomous vehicles, as well as for medical devices and a variety of consumer electronics products. Depending on cell type, five percent or more of those cells may have undetected leaks. INFICON's breakthrough leak-detection systems can reliably and accurately test all types of lithium-ion battery cells for the first time the single most important leak-detection development in the past 10 years. Developed at the company's research facilities in Cologne, Germany, they also incorporate sensor technology from INFICON's North American headquarters in Syracuse, New York. Based on mass-spectrometer technology, the company's new leak detectors are able to identify dangerous leaks 1,000 times smaller than currently possible. Dr. Daniel Wetzig, INFICON's research and development director for leak detection based in Cologne, notes that only a fraction of new battery-cell leaks can be detected through traditional methods. He adds that the company's new ELT3000 technology also could pave the way for the industry's first reliable quality-control standards for EV battery cells. "The rapid detection of even the smallest battery-cell leaks is absolutely essential to achieving extended service life and meeting necessary safety requirements," Wetzig says. "The use of industry-first spectrometer technology, for example, can help assure an extended EV battery life of up to 10 years or more." He points out that INFICON's new systems also can be used to test billions of battery cells annually produced for use in smart phones, computers and other consumer-electronics products. INFICON's breakthrough technology was discussed for the first time in an SAE International paper published earlier this year. Entitled "Methods for Leak Testing Lithium-Ion Batteries to Assure Quality with Proposed Rejection Limit Standards," a print or digital copy of the paper is available from SAE at https://bit.ly/3dM6ht5. Demand for lithium-ion batteries is expected to increase dramatically over the next five to 10 years, according to Thomas Parker, INFICON's North American automotive sales manager. "The global market for battery cells is expected to more than double from an estimated $44 billion this year to nearly $95 billion in 2025," Parker points out, adding that "Annual lithium-ion battery-cell production in gigawatt hours (GWh) is expected to more than triple from 280 GWh this year to 970 GWh in 2025 -- equivalent to the hourly energy output of an estimated 1.9 million Corvettes, 1.3-billion horses or 97-billion LED light bulbs." Parker notes that by 2030 annual lithium-ion battery cell production is predicted to jump to more than 2,600 GWh, equal to the hourly output of 5.2 million Corvettes, 3.3 billion horses and 260 billion LED light bulbs. EV car and light-truck manufacturers in particular are seeing significant growth in overall value and investor interest. Tesla's market cap in July actually passed Toyota's more than $200-billion cap to make Tesla the world's most valuable car company. Rivian, the U.S.-based EV truck and SUV startup, has secured $5.3 billion in investment capital since last fall to help launch three new vehicles in 2021. Battery suppliers also are seeing surges in stock value with South Korea's Samsung SDI and LG Chem up 35 to 50 percent. China's Contemporary Amperex Technology share price has climbed 50 percent as well. Although China recently imposed tougher production standards for batteries, Thomas does not believe government regulations will drive future quality control improvements in the auto industry. "Automakers in North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific region want to maintain high quality standards and customer acceptance levels for their future wave of electric vehicles," Parker explains. "Car companies will have the most to lose if their batteries can't achieve mileage targets, require early replacement or cause safety concerns." Three types of battery cells today are used to power most hybrid-electric, electric and autonomous vehicles: hard-cased prismatic, cylindrical cells and softer pouch cells. INFICON equipment for testing prismatic and cylindrical cells is scheduled for introduction in October, followed by testing devices for pouch cells in late 2020 or early 2021. Empty hard-case battery cells currently are checked by filling the cells with helium test gas to detect leaks while in a vacuum chamber. Electrolytes are not inserted into the cells until after they have been "dry tested." Helium bombing is an alternative approach, but generally not suited for liquid-filled components. If used, however, electrolyte-filled battery cells are placed in a vacuum chamber and exposed to helium under pressure. Helium enters through existing leaks and then can be measured as it escapes back into the vacuum chamber. Neither test method provides the reliably consistent results needed to establish industry-wide standards for battery-cell leak detection. INFICON's new process will, for the first time, allow automakers and battery suppliers to accurately test battery cells already filled with electrolyte. The cells are placed into a vacuum chamber connected to an INFICON ELT3000 leak-detection unit with a mass spectrometer for testing. The INFICON equipment can be combined with a variety of automation technologies such as high-speed robotic assembly processes. It also is available for use in research and development laboratories. Wetzig adds that INFICON's new systems are designed to handle all types of common electrolyte solvents, including DMC, EMC and PP, as well as many others. ABOUT DR. DANIEL WETZIG Daniel Wetzig, PhD, was instrumental in the development of INFICON's new ELT3000 technology and is internationally known for his work in the field of industrial leak-detection using tracer gases and laser spectroscopy. Based in Cologne, Germany, he directs INFICON's leak-detection research and development activities after having progressed through the company's R&D organization as an engineer, technical specialist and project manager. He has authored numerous papers on industrial leak detection and holds several technology patents. He has a degree in physics from the University of Duisburg-Essen and a doctorate in surface science from Westfaelische Wilhelms University Muenster. ABOUT THOMAS PARKER Thomas Parker is responsible for INFICON's automotive sales in North America. He is considered an industry expert on leak testing automotive parts, systems and final vehicle assembly processes. Parker has been a featured speaker at numerous trade conferences on topics related to battery pack design and testing, battery-cell leak detection and leak testing of battery-pack thermal management systems. Parker joined INFICON in 2006 and previously had been the company's leak-detection segment manager for the eastern United States. He holds a bachelor's degree in engineering from Southern Polytechnic State University in Marietta, Georgia, and a master's degree in business administration from Syracuse University. ABOUT INFICON INFICON is one of the world's leading developers, producers and suppliers of instruments and devices for leak detection in air conditioning, refrigeration and automotive manufacturing. The company has manufacturing facilities in Europe, China and the United States, as well as sales and service offices throughout the world. More information about INFICON automotive technology is available online at www.inficonautomotive.com. SOURCE INFICON Related Links http://www.inficonautomotive.com Guwahati, Oct 5 : The Railway Protection Force (RPF) seized 13 gold bars worth Rs 1.12 crore from a train in Assam and arrested four persons in this connection, an official said on Monday. Northeast Frontier Railways's (NFR) Chief Public Relations Officer Subhanan Chanda said that acting on secret information, a team of the RPF conducted a raid on the Avadh Assam Express between Guwahati and Barpeta and arrested four people, including a woman, seized gold weighing 2.15 kg from them. "All the four people were apprehended on the train itself between Guwahati and Barpeta Road and taken off at the Barpeta Road station (in western Assam)," Chanda told IANS. Three of them are from West Bengal, and one is from Jharkhand. They were handed over to the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence and a case was registered against them. Among the most affecting passages in investigative journalist Tom Bowers new biography of Boris Johnson was the story of how Boriss one-time mistress, Petronella Wyatt, miscarried their baby in November 2004. The future Prime Minister, we read, sat with Wyatt in the hospital and grieved with her. Yet what will, perhaps, have raised a few eyebrows is the fact that the couple ever reached this very unfortunate position. Earlier that year, Boris had been unceremoniously sacked from the Shadow Cabinet after lying to then leader Michael Howard about whether or not he was having an affair with Wyatt, then his deputy editor at the Spectator magazine. Looking back, it feels strangely characteristic of Teflon Bojo that he could lose his job after lying to his party leader (not to mention his wife), and then carry on seeing his mistress and get her pregnant again before resuming his political career and rising to the top regardless One memorable Saturday night that year, I was attending a swish black-tie dinner at the Tate Modern gallery on Londons South Bank when we learned that the Mail on Sunday was planning to publish a report the next day that Petronella had had an abortion as a result of her affair with Boris. (Her mother Verushka was the named source.) I watched as Howards press secretary, Guy Black, sacked Boris over the phone for having falsely but memorably sworn blind that claims of the affair with Petronella were an inverted pyramid of piffle. Looking back, it feels strangely characteristic of Teflon Bojo that he could lose his job after lying to his party leader (not to mention his wife), and then carry on seeing his mistress and get her pregnant again before resuming his political career and rising to the top regardless. PS: Bower also reveals that in 2016, when he was Foreign Secretary, Boris tried to reheat the affair with Petronella. She sensibly rebuffed him. Trapped by his Trump hair-do Pity poor Donald and Trump two unwanted five-year-old guinea pigs at a Hampshire pet rescue whose names have stopped them being rehomed. The Furlock Holmes Animal Centre says: Forgetting the very bad choice in names (Im sure they wont mind you changing them), these two are a lovely, kind pair of brothers who really do deserve a family of their own. Trump does have long hair, but this is easily managed with regular grooming and, if you are local to us, this is something we can help with. Lets hope the pets regime isnt as complicated as the real Trumps, who reportedly spent $70,000 on his trademark coiffure when he presented The Apprentice on TV. And lets hope they dont insist on a solid gold cage. Overheard in a Commons bar. A despairing Tory MP remarked: Boris says that lots of people will now need to train for new jobs. Any chance he can lead the way? Ouch. The Tory faithful may not be gathering for their annual conference, but Covid-19 cant stop the party making as much cash as possible from the virtual shindig. Commercial exhibitors are being asked to stump up between 6,000 and 25,500 for an online stall, depending on whether a Cabinet minister Zooms in. To paraphrase the LOreal advert are they worth it? Never one to miss a chance to poke fun at the political classes, comedian Rory Bremner took to Twitter to mock Donald Trumps coronavirus diagnosis: Doctor: Melania, you will have to self-isolate with the President for ten days. Melania: Are you positive, Doctor? Doctor: Are you? Melania: Not any more. Keir's locals revolting The first stirrings of a hard-Left Islingtonian revolt against Labour leader Keir Starmer The first stirrings of a hard-Left Islingtonian revolt against Labour leader Keir Starmer. The Camden New Journal has published a letter from ten members of his Holborn & St Pancras constituency party, criticising him for sacking three frontbenchers for voting against the Overseas Operations Bill, designed to protect military personnel and veterans from vexatious claims and endless investigations. The activists say the legislation will obstruct the investigation of war crimes. We expect the leader of our party and our MP to stand up for socialism, peace and justice, they bellow. Starmer still has a fight on his hands to unify the party. President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a decree "On some measures to attract entrepreneurs, highly qualified specialists who are citizens of the Republic of Belarus." Corresponding decree No. 420/2020 of October 2 was published on the website of the head of state. "The document will contribute to the development of the investment potential of Ukraine and the attraction of highly qualified IT specialists and innovators," the message says. According to the decree, the Cabinet of Ministers will extend the period of temporary stay of Belarusian citizens on the territory of Ukraine to 180 days a year. This applies to entrepreneurs, highly qualified specialists, in particular specialists in the field of information technology and innovation, whose immigration is in the interests of Ukraine, and their families. Zelensky ordered the government to introduce a pilot project to simplify the registration of a residence permit for these categories of citizens of the Republic of Belarus. It is noted that the Cabinet of Ministers should provide for the possibility of reducing the deadline for obtaining such documents to three days without the need for additional travel outside the Ukrainian territory. In addition, the Cabinet of Ministers should optimize the procedure for obtaining permits for the use of labor of foreigners and stateless persons for the employment of Belarusian citizens who are highly qualified IT specialists. For this, it is proposed to reduce the period for granting such permission to five days and provide for the possibility of obtaining it on the principle of tacit consent. According to the decree, the procedure for registering Belarusian IT specialists as individual entrepreneurs - single tax payers needs to be improved. It is also supposed to recognize the documents issued by the competent authorities of Belarus, which are necessary for the implementation of labor activity in Ukraine. In addition, the government must ensure the smooth operation of a single information portal and hotline telephones to provide advice to Belarusian citizens who immigrate to Ukraine. At the same time, the regional state administrations and the Kyiv City State Administration should facilitate the provision of consultations to the citizens of Belarus who immigrate to Ukraine. The decree comes into force on the day of its publication. Victoria's Chief Health Officer has warned that Melbourne is at risk of failing to hit the daily coronavirus case targets set for the relaxation of restrictions, as experts question the health value of the state's five-kilometre limit on movement. Brett Sutton said the results of the movement restriction were difficult to quantify because it was part of a suite of measures. However, abolishing it could lead to the virus being reintroduced into suburbs where there had not been coronavirus cases for weeks. Chief Health Officer Professor Brett Sutton has warned lifting the five-kilometre rule could lead to "really explosive transmission" of coronavirus infections. Credit:Eddie Jim Public health experts, however, were divided on the merits of the rule. Some said they were sceptical about its health benefits, noting there was no evidence either way about its ability to drive down coronavirus cases. Victoria recorded nine new coronavirus cases on Monday, but the government later said one of those cases in Shepparton had been confirmed as a false positive. Jean-Pierre Brice is the community resource consultant for the newly minted Chester Partnership for Safe Neighborhoods, a program from the Delaware County District Attorney aimed at reducing gun violence. Read more Jean-Pierre Brice has spent most of his 40 years in Chester. As a kid, he made mistakes, some that landed him in a state prison cell. As an adult, hes tried to reach out to the next generation of kids making those mistakes. The success, he said, has been mixed. A lot of them really feel like its hopeless, Brice said in a recent interview. Like they have nothing that they really want more than to hurt people. Because its what their friends do. Its what his uncle did, or what his cousin did. Its passed down through lineage. Programs offering alternatives to kids raised in neighborhoods beset by poverty, drugs, and violence are nothing new to Delaware Countys lone city. Many have been met with cynicism and sometimes distrust by the community theyre intended to serve. But Brice is hoping that a new initiative from the Delaware County District Attorneys Office will break this streak. Set to debut next month, the Chester Partnership for Safe Neighborhoods (CPSN) will take, as District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer described it, a carrot-and-stick approach to curbing gun violence in Chester. Brice, as community resource consultant, will be the programs on-the-ground resource, spreading its message to Chesters young people from a perspective they can understand. Somebody has to want to listen, he said. These kids dont want to be a detriment to their lives and their families' lives. So, you know, you have to give options." READ MORE: Philly planned to roll out a new anti-violence strategy in the spring, but questions remain Modeled after the focused deterrence program used in such major cities as Philadelphia, Boston, and Indianapolis, CPSN will target the small percentage of Chesters population that commits the majority of its violent crime. Through regular call-in meetings, prosecutors from Stollsteimers office will meet with young people in the city deemed to be at risk of being affected by gun violence and tell them the penalties for carrying guns will be steep and shared.. If one member of a neighborhood crew is carrying a gun, for instance, police will be vigilant toward the people theyre known to associate with, assuming that they, too, are armed. The week after a shooting, the county sheriffs office might prioritize serving warrants, even low-level ones, in the city, or stiffen probation reporting requirements for associates of the alleged shooter. But the program will also extend another option. If a teen surrounded by criminal activity wants help getting stable housing or food for his family, that can be arranged through the countys Department of Human Services at the call-in meetings. The department can also open the door to longer-term aid, like GED classes, trauma therapy, or jobs. We hope that that young person, because were doing such great work clearing cases, might stop and think: Well, wait a minute, Im going to get arrested. Im actually going to go to jail. Maybe I should stop,'" Stollsteimer said. "And if we can stop them because were giving them a better alternative, or we can stop them because were going to arrest his ass. It doesnt matter to me. But at the end of the day, he said, we got to get them to stop shooting each other. As of Thursday, Chester had seen 26 homicides this year, compared with 18 in all of 2019. For a city with a population of about 34,000, thats a per capita murder rate that eclipses both Philadelphias and Camdens. Conversely, shootings are down significantly in the city, to a point not seen since 2015, according to Deputy District Attorney Matthew Krouse, one of the prosecutors overseeing CPSN. READ MORE: Chester City creates another plan to revitalize its waterfront after decades of financial stress The program represents the first time a data-driven approach has been taken to combating gun violence in Chester. Krouse, a veteran of the Philadelphia District Attorneys Office, aims to use intelligence gathered from the Chester Police Department during its investigations to create a list of the most at-risk young adults in the city people most likely to shoot or be shot, he said who will then be invited to the call-in meetings. But the work goes beyond that. Prosecutors, county detectives, and city police are now meeting weekly to review active shooting cases, a level of collaboration that Krouse says was nonexistent before Stollsteimer took office in January. Federal resources are also being tapped, and, when appropriate, cases may be referred to the higher court for prosecution. It helps our office and it helps DHS by putting the resources that already exist into the hands of the people that need them the most, Krouse said. But there are going to be some individuals that have no interest in being involved in this program or taking advantage of what were trying to offer. And so naturally anytime you pull the trigger, there has got to be consequences to those actions. The concept of focused deterrence at the core of Delaware Countys new initiative was the brainchild of David Kennedy, a professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a graduate of Swarthmore College who has spent time studying Chester and its history. Kennedy, in an interview last week, said the city, like many others, is dealing with violence as a result of failed economic and housing policies forced on it from the outside. Poverty brings trauma, he said, which in turn breeds the desperation that can lead some people to pick up guns. He applauded Stollsteimer and his office for taking a targeted approach, focusing on the specific, rather than attacking the city generally. READ MORE: In Chester, new program takes a group approach to healing scars of gun violence Its a way in which people in authority can say, Weve gotten this badly wrong, weve done things wrong here, Kennedy said. "Weve said these are dangerous communities full of bad people, and we know with scientific certainty that thats not right. And places like Chester, with all the bad things done to it, has raised its children in a way that almost no one in it is at risk for violence, he added. We should celebrate this community, rather than malign it." Alexia Clark supports that philosophy. As director of the Chester Community Coalition, she has overseen trauma therapy sessions for about a year, dealing directly with families torn apart by gun violence. She supports the ideas being touted by CPSN, having seen similar efforts find success in Camden. The emphasis on offering a better way, a safer way, for at-risk youth, can be the foundation of substantive change in Chester. Trauma is at the root of so much of the violence and the retaliation that happens," Clark said. "And we need to take steps to try to address that so that people are better able to handle it. Trauma has to be part of the equation, healing has to be part of that equation, and we are happy to support folks who are willing to take that step. The ruling Congress on Monday compared Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adiyanath with North Korean leader over the gang-rape-cum-murder of a 19-year-old girl in UP's Hathras district and her hurried cremation. The ruling Congress made the comparison after staging a two-hour-long silent demonstration in protest against the Hathras incident even as the opposition BJP staged a halla bol' (raising cries) protest to highlight the worsening law and order in After observing the silent protest at Shahid Smarkar here, the government's chief whip in assembly, Mahesh Joshi, compared Adityanath with North Korean leader UP CM is acting like North Korea's dictator Kim Jong. The victim's family is being suppressed and such things have never happened in the country's history, Joshi told reporters after the protest. We have no hopes from the UP police. The way they are working cannot be trusted, he said. Joshi said the BJP has no moral right to raise questions. They should demonstrate to get justice for the Hathras victim and against the Yogi Government instead. I pray God to create circumstances for the accused in the Hathras case to get the harshest possible punishment. Industry Minister Parsadi Lal Meena said probably no government in the history committed such a crime. The body was not given to the family. Which Indian culture is this, where the body is cremated late at night? What compulsion the government had to do such a thing? The way UP police misbehaved with media and Congress leaders is condemnable, Meena said. On the other hand, opposition BJP took out a protest march and held a demonstration near Civil Lines railway crossing. The state government has been sleeping for 20 months and we had to do this 'Halla Bol' protest to wake up the government. The crime rate is increasing in the state and the law and order situation has deteriorated, Poonia said. He said Rajasthan has become the Crime capital of the country. BJP MLA Kalicharan Saraf said Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, who holds the Home Ministry's portfolio, has failed to keep crime under control. (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.) WATERLOO COVID-19 cases are rising, Ontario is moving forward with tighter restrictions, but how far will the province go as it grapples with a second wave of the virus? Early predictions forecast new daily cases in Ontario could jump beyond 1,000 in mid-October, eclipsing the numbers seen during the pandemics height in March and April. Ontario recorded 615 new cases and five deaths on Monday after reaching a new single-day record of 732 cases on Friday. But the province has known this is coming, said Wilfrid Laurier University virologist and immunologist Stephanie DeWitte-Orr, and decision-makers now have a better understanding of how the virus works and what protocols are most effective. They also know the financial implications of moving back to protocols that only allowed essential businesses to operate, she said. DeWitte-Orr doesnt expect the government to revert to its three-stage pandemic plan as it was devised in the summer. Instead, she said, expect more regionalized restrictions on high-risk areas where numbers start to rise not another widespread lockdown. I think the phased approach was appropriate at the time because we didnt understand the virus, she said. So, when you dont understand the virus, you just have to shut everything down. Now that we know more, I think responding regionally is a much more balanced approach. Its a position DeWitte-Orr has come to after also taking into consideration the economic impact of the provinces earlier response. There must be a middle ground, she said. Restricting access to business translates to lost jobs, she said, and it isnt going to work in the long term. Human health and human lives are more important than money, but this is not going to go away any time soon, she said. So you have to find that balance, and I think thats what the province is trying to do. The government, in consultation with public health experts, continues to review trends on an ongoing basis to determine if public health measures need to be adjusted or tightened, said Ministry of Health spokesperson Christian Hasse. Last week, it prohibited the sale of alcohol after 11 p.m. at bars and restaurants and shut down strip clubs completely. It is requiring businesses to comply with any advice, recommendations and instructions issued by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health on screening for COVID-19. And its also rolling back social circles, advising Ontarians to go back to socializing just with members of their household. Our government will continue to use evidence and scientific advice to inform our decisions, said Hasse. DeWitte-Orr points to earlier outbreaks in northern Italy and New York City as examples of what can happen when things start to spiral out of control. Ontario never reached those unprecedented levels during the first wave of the virus, and she said she doesnt expect it to happen this fall either if the province can act swiftly and severely in the areas most impacted. I am watching things carefully, said DeWitte-Orr. I still think were at a point where we can control what happens next. There is a point in an infection where it becomes uncontrollable and just takes off and there isnt a whole lot that can be done. Were not there yet, but Im watching closely, and Im wary. Read more about: Based on figures from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), here are the top 10 leading car insurance providers in the US by market share: 1.State Farm Direct Written Premiums: $65.6 billion Market Share: 9.27% State Farm is a group of insurance and financial services firms owned by State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, a mutual insurance company based in Bloomington, Illinois. In 2019, it ranked 36th on the Fortune 500 list of largest companies. State Farm provides property and casualty (P&C) insurance, annuities, life and health insurance, mutual funds, and banking products. It has around 59,000 employees and sells products through a 19,000-strong force of independent contractor exclusive State Farm agents. 2. GEICO Direct Written Premiums: $46.1 billion Market Share: 6.51% The Government Employees Insurance Company (GEICO) is a Maryland-based auto insurance company. It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway and offers coverage for over 20 million vehicles owned by more than 16 million policyholders. GEICO employs over 40,000 associates, maintains more than 16 offices across the US, and provides 24/7 service. Its insurance products include vehicle, property, business, travel, overseas, life, pet, jewelry, and identity protection. 3. Progressive Group Direct Written Premiums: $39.2 billion Market Share: 5.54% The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies is known for its innovation in the personal auto market. It claims to be the third-largest auto insurance provider and the number one motorcycle/specialty RV insurer in the US. For over 80 years, Progressive has offered a wide range of insurance products such as auto, commercial auto, motorcycle, boat, renters, home, and small business policies. It employs over 36,000 people, operates in all 50 states, and sells products through more than 30,000 independent insurance agencies across the country. 4. Allstate Direct Written Premiums: $35 billion Market Share: 4.95% Allstate is a personal lines P&C insurer in the US founded in 1931 as part of Sears, Roebuck & Co. Its insurance products include car, home, property, condo, renters, life, business, motorcycle, boats, and other recreational vehicles. It also offers financial products, such as college savings programs, annuity, and retirement plans. In 2018, Allstate ranked 79th on the Fortune 500 list of largest US corporations by total revenue. It employs nearly 46,000 people and serves around 16 million households. 5. USAA Direct Written Premiums: $23.4 billion Market Share: 3.32% USAA is a family of companies that provides insurance, investments, banking, retirement, and other financial products and services for former and current members of the US military and their families. It has more than 35,000 employees and over 13 million members. USAAs insurance products are divided into four categories: auto and vehicle, home and property, life and health, and additional insurance. Its auto and vehicle insurance products provide coverage for auto, motorcycle, motorhome, boat, and classic car. 6. Farmers Insurance Direct Written Premiums: $20.6 billion Market Share: 2.92% The Farmers Insurance Group of Companies provides coverage for vehicles, homes, individuals, pets, and small businesses and has a wide range of other specialty insurance and financial services products. It serves over 10 million households with more than 19 million individual insurance policies across all 50 states through 48,000 exclusive and independent agents and over 21,000 employees. Farmers Insurances companies include Foremost Insurance Group, The Bristol West Insurance Group, The 21st Century Insurance Group, Farmers New World Life Insurance Company, Farmers Financial Solutions, and Toggle. 7. The Hartford Direct Written Premiums: $12.6 billion Market Share: 1.79% The Hartford Financial Services Group is an insurance and investment company that specializes in life insurance, automobile and homeowners insurance, and group and employee benefits. It also offers investment products, annuities, college savings plans, and mutual funds. The Hartford operates in commercial lines, P&C other operations, personal lines, Hartford funds, and group benefits. The Hartfords commercial lines business provides workers compensation and coverage for auto, property, liability, and umbrella under various products within the companys standard commercial lines. Its personal lines segment offers auto, homeowners, and home-based business insurance products for individuals, and its P&C and other operations division comprises specific property and casualty operations. 8. American Family Insurance Direct Written Premiums: $11.5 billion Market Share: 1.63% American Family Insurance, also known as AmFam, is a mutual insurance company that specializes in P&C and auto insurance. Its products and services are divided into three sections: vehicle insurance, property and business, and added protection. AmFams vehicle insurance segment covers cars, motorcycles, classic cars, boats, RVs, ATVs, and snowmobiles. Meanwhile, the property and business division provides coverage for renters, homes, condominiums, manufactures homes, farms, ranches, and businesses. The company also offers life, health, travel, umbrella, and identity theft insurance, as well as credit monitoring. 9. Erie Insurance Direct Written Premiums: $7.4 billion Market Share: 1.06% The Erie Insurance Group is a multi-line insurance company that provides auto, home, life, and business insurance through a network of over 12,000 independent insurance agents. Erie employs more than 5,000 people and serves 12 states and the District of Columbia. It has over 5.8 million policies for auto, home, and business insurance as well as over 339,000 policies for life, annuity, and disability insurance. It ranks on the Fortune 500 list of largest American companies based on revenue. 10. Amica Mutual Insurance Direct Written Premiums: $1.2 billion Market Share: 0.50% Amica Mutual Insurance is one of the oldest mutual insurers of automobiles in the US. It also provides home, umbrella, and marine insurance. Amicas subsidiaries include Amica Life Insurance Company, Amica Property and Casualty Insurance Company, and Amica General Agency. by Vincenzo Guo Xijin The speech given by the bishop of Mindong announcing his resignation from all public office, retiring to a life of prayer. Now the diocese is entrusted to Msgr. Zhan Silu, known to be very ambitious. Mindong (AsiaNews) - "I am incompetent", "I have no talent", "I am not in step with the times", "I do not want to be an obstacle to progress": these are some of the reasons that Msgr. Vincenzo Guo Xijin listed in his speech delivered yesterday at his last public mass, in which he announced his decision to resign from all his public offices and to retire to a life of prayer. In perfect Confucian style, Msgr. Guo humiliates himself by mocking his few qualities. The fact remains that he, a great confessor of the faith, who has suffered imprisonment many times, out of love for the unity of the Church leaves room for a formerly excommunicated bishop, known by all as ambitious and thirsty for power. Bishop Zhan Silu, reconciled with Pope Francis, does not seem to have made any gesture of public request for forgiveness in front of his community. Under the Sino-Vatican Agreement, the Mindong (Fujian) experiment was seen in some ways as a "pilot project" for a program of normalization of relations with the government and for a reconciliation of the official and underground community: it was obtained normalization; a fracture in the community; the resignation and mass on the side-lines of a truly holy bishop, who signs himself "Your incompetent pastor Guo Xijin", precisely in the humility and service that Pope Francis likes so much. We report below the text of the speech of Msgr. Guo, which is also filmed as a letter among the faithful. (B.C.) Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, may your heart be filled with the grace of God. Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, at this moment, first of all, I beg your pardon: tonight I would like to take some of your time to share with you what has happened recently and my personal situation. However, these events may also concern you, as they concern the Church in China or in other words [are] directly related to the situation in our diocese. All this is perhaps the sign of a new era, a new page for the Church. In such an extraordinary historical moment, we need people with great talent, wisdom, virtue and knowledge, to be able to keep up with this era, or even precede the steps of the era by guiding it. I am a person who has no talent, my head is now a void unable to change with a changing society, a shepherd born in a poor village who has no talent, no virtue, no wisdom, no skills, no knowledge; in the face of this age that changes so rapidly, I feel almost incapable. I thank God for enlightening me by making me understand that I am no longer able to keep up with this era. Nonetheless, I do not want to become an obstacle to progress. This is why I have decided to resign by submitting my resignation to the Holy See already last month. I have therefore decided: 1.not to attend any public events starting tomorrow. Tonight will be the last public mass that I preside: from tomorrow I will only do private masses (ie without the participation of the faithful), the faithful can receive the sacraments and attend mass at the nearby church. During the solemnity of the Assumption of Mary I have already specified that the sacraments given by priests (whether they have signed or not) are all legitimate. 2.Leave all administrative organization of the diocese concentrating on prayer, in addition to the need for confession for problems of personal conscience, for all other affairs refer to one's pastor or go directly to Ningde to present them to Bishop Zhan Silu. 3.As for the use of the offerings received, already last year there were many people who were interested. I can tell you clearly that every cent of the offerings received must be delivered to the diocese (this is the custom and norm established by our diocese 30, 40 years ago); moreover, it is Bishop Zhan who administers this together with his priests. I have already decided to renounce all control of this institution, as I am not capable nor am I worthy to hold this supervisory position: you do not have to deliver the offering to me, so starting from tomorrow I will refuse to receive all offerings. You can deliver your offerings to your pastor or someone you trust. 4.My faithful, you must remember that your faith is in God and not in man Man is subject to change, but God is not My final counsel: in any circumstance or change, you must never forget God, do not ignore the Lord's commandments, do not harm the integrity of the faith, do not slow down the salvation of the soul which is the most important thing. As I prepare to leave my office, I ask you to forgive me for my weakness and helplessness, especially for the offenses I made against you during my office! May the merciful God always be with you, until the last day of your life! Your incompetent pastor Guo Xijin Sunday evening of 4 October 2020 Monmouth County Republicans recently joined President Donald Trumps campaign team in suing to alter New Jerseys plan for a mostly vote-by-mail election. But ballots have already begun arriving in mailboxes, and Election Day is less than a month away. Unless they make a decision on these lawsuits before Nov. 3, I dont see it making a difference, said Morris County Clerk Ann Grossi. In my experience, when there have been election issues that come up, with ballots or voting or the way something is printed, by the time they get to it they cant really make a change. Her office had sent 225,576 ballots to the post office as of Wednesday and her staff was working overtime to reach all 39 towns by Monday, she said. That didnt mean she supported or opposed the complaints, Grossi said, nor did it mean the lawsuits couldnt shape future elections. Monmouths complaint was filed in Superior Court Sept. 24, a month after Trumps team and the New Jersey Republican State Committee sued with the help of state Sen. Mike Testa, R-Cumberland. Testa said their goal wasnt to block people from mailing ballots, and he believes there is still time for a judge to force the state to allow more in-person voting. There are thousands of people that have interacted with my office that want to vote in person, he said Thursday. They dont feel comfortable voting by mail. Two hearings are scheduled for Testas lawsuit before the election, according to online court records. On Oct. 19, the court will hear arguments challenging New Jerseys plan to start counting ballots 10 days before Election Day and to allow some ballots without a postmark to be received up to 48 hours after Election Day. Another hearing is scheduled for Nov. 2, to consider whether a legal nonprofit should be allowed to formally support New Jerseys plan. In the meantime, recent filings have raised new arguments both for and against laws restricting in-person voting. When defending the states plan late September, the attorney generals office noted that 6,935 ballots properly cast in time for the July 7 primary were mis-marked as July 8." Republicans seized on that detail. The recent unveiling of yet another vote-by-mail issue gives me pause, state Sen. Kristin Corrado, R-Passaic, said in a statement, and she called for more information about how that could have happened. On Wednesday, a group of computer scientists and security experts said mailing paper ballots potentially offered more security than machines that could be hacked. Voter-verified paper ballots are the only practical means of guaranteeing trustworthy and valid post-election audits, according a document filed by the Rutgers Law School International Human Rights Clinic. It was not immediately clear when a hearing might be set for Monmouths lawsuit. Jason Sena, a lawyer with Cutolo Barros who filed the complaint on behalf of the county GOP, declined to comment on their best-case scenario during the final weeks of the campaign. A spokeswoman for Monmouth Republicans did not respond to requests for comment. On Tuesday, Monmouths clerk said more than 450,000 ballots will be mailed this week. As it stands, residents can drop completed ballots in mail boxes, specialized drop boxes or at a few polling places around the state. Voters may also vote provisionally in person, and disabled residents may use a machine. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Blake Nelson can be reached at bnelson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter at @BCunninghamN. Have a tip? Tell us: nj.com/tips. SOUTHGATE, MI A Michigan high school is scrambling after a brand-new trailer was stolen from its marching band. WDIV Local 4 in Detroit reports the Southgate Anderson High Schools storage unit was illegally towed from a school district parking lot. The trailer itself cost about $6,000, but it was also loaded with tarps, carts and props valued at about $5,000. Heartless, honestly heartless. How do you take from kids? Southgate Anderson Band Booster President Martha Hancock told the TV station. Theyve been through enough already with the virus, theyve had their entire season taken away. Their next season is taken and who knows what the winter is going to bring. I dont know how you can do this to a bunch of kids. The trailer is so new it hasnt even been marked with school or band logos yet. The district said it will likely take a few years to fundraise enough money to replace the stolen trailer, WDIV reported. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Southgate Police Department at 734-258-3060. The global Initiative of Coalition of Epidemic Preparedness for Innovation (CEPI) has identified an Indian laboratory for centralised assessment of Covid-19 vaccines . Translational Health Science And Technology Institute (THSTI), an autonomous institute of the Department of Biotechnology, has been recognised by CEPI as one of the global network of laboratories for the assessment. The CEPI network will initially involve six labs, one each in Canada, Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, Bangladesh and India. Under the CEPI Global network, the laboratory will use the same reagents and follow a common set of protocols to measure the immune response of multiple vaccine candidates under development and trial. The Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology has been implementing the IndCEPI mission India Centric Epidemic Preparedness through Rapid Vaccine Development: Supporting Indian Vaccine Development. This will greatly harmonize the Vaccine trial process and allow different vaccine candidates to be compared and speed up the selection of the most effective candidate," said the government in a statement. The Ind-CEPI mission for establishment of BSL-3 facility, is a translational laboratory for platform technologies and a Bioassay laboratory for development of assays to measure clinical immunogenicity, the government said. More than 30 covid-19 Vaccines are at different stages of development with three in Human trials and nearly four in advanced stages of Preclinical trials," said Renu Swarup, Secretary of The Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology. The THSTI run comparability studies with other laboratories internationally and will form an important part of the global network," she said. Indias Covid-19 wrap The total tally of the Covid-19 cases touched 67 lakh on Monday with the toll reaching 1,03,173. A total of 74,442 new confirmed cases have been reported in the last 24 hours in the country. About 78% of the new cases are concentrated in 10 States/UT. Maharashtra has reported more than 12,000 of the new cases. Karnataka contributed more than 10,000, the government said. The active cases in India are 9,34,427. As on date, the active cases contribute only 14.11% to the positive caseload of the country. This is following a progressively downward trend. Only 10 States/UTs account for 77% of the active cases. The union health ministry said that 903 deaths have been registered in the past 24 hours. 82% of new fatalities are reported from 10 States and UTs. Over 36% of deaths reported yesterday are from Maharashtra with 326 deaths followed by Karnataka with 67 deaths, the ministry said in a statement. The positive aspect of the pandemic in India is the higher recovery rate. 76,737 recoveries have been registered in the last 24 hours in the country whereas the new confirmed cases stand at 74,442. The new recoveries have exceeded the new cases in the recent days. Indias total recoveries stands at 55,86,703 today with national recovery rate at 84.34%, the government said. Around 75% of new recovered cases are recorded in 10 States and UTs. Maharashtra alone has contributed to over 15,000 to the new recovered cases followed by Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh with more than 7,000 cases each. Meanwhile, Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare along with Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh digitally inaugurated the Super Speciality Block (SSB) at Motilal Nehru Medical College, Prayagraj. The 220-bedded facility has been dedicated as a COVID Hospital (DCH) to the nation. The Union Health Minister also digitally inaugurated first high throughput COBAS 6800 machine in Uttar Pradesh, installed by ICMR to pursue its regionally balanced COVID Testing strategy. The Super Speciality Block is built with an investment of 150 crores under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY). Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 19:00:36|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TOKYO, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks closed higher Monday as reports of U.S. President Donald Trump is recovering after testing positive for COVID-19 last week and may be discharged from hospital on Monday saw investors buying back a range of issues. The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average gained 282.24 points, or 1.23 percent, from Friday to close the day at 23,312.14. The broader Topix index of all First Section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, meanwhile, added 28.03 points, or 1.74 percent, higher at 1,637.25. Local broker said that buybacks were prevalent following Trump's doctors saying he could return to the White House as soon as Monday. Concerns were raised, however, after reports said he initially needed supplemental oxygen and had a high fever, prior to being taken to hospital, and has been administered a steroid usually reserved for the most severe COVID-19 cases, analysts here close to the matter said. "Optimism grew that Trump's recovery is faster than expected. But investors refrained from going further once initial buying ran out of steam. They are awaiting more news on Mr. Trump's health condition," Yutaka Miura, senior technical analyst at Mizuho Securities Co., was quoted as saying. Mining, land transportation and insurance-linked issues comprised those that gained the most by the close of play. Railway issues gained traction after losing steam last week, with Central Japan Railway accelerating 5.8 percent, while Central Japan Railway surged 6.2 percent. East Japan Railway, meanwhile, closed the day 3.7 percent higher. Energy and resource-linked issues found favor on hopes for negotiations for U.S. stimulus and the broader global economic recovery. As such, Inpex leapt 4.3 percent, while Japan Petroleum Exploration advanced 2.9 percent. Among other gainers, insurers fared well, with Sompo Holdings climbing 3.7 percent, while Dai-ichi Life Holdings advanced 4.7 percent. Issues that rose outpaced those that declined by 1,905 to 226 on the First Section, while 46 ended the day unchanged. On the main section on Monday, 1.046 billion shares changed hands, dropping from Friday's volume of 1.484 billion shares. The turnover on the first trading day of the week came to 2.071 trillion yen (19.605 billion U.S. dollars). Enditem New Delhi: Amid the shocking Hathras gangrape incident, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday (October 5) said that his opponents were conspiring to spark caste and communal riots in Uttar Pradesh for political gains. Yogi alleged that a conspiracy was made to trigger caste and communal riots through international funding. The Chief Minister said "For last one week, opposition parties were keen to see riots. We need to move forward amidst all these conspiracies," adding "Anti-social and anti-national elements find it difficult to accept the state's development as they always wanted a riot-stricken Uttar Pradesh. So they are hatching conspiracies now." CM Yogi Adityanath cautioned BJP workers of conspiracies against his government and asked them to expose those who want to incite caste and communal riots in the state while attending a review meeting for upcoming byelections in seven Assembly seats. The Chief Minister said, "Those who do not like development, they want to trigger communal and caste riots in the state and in the country." Earlier in the day, Uttar Pradesh Law and Justice Minister Brajesh Pathak also stated that a conspiracy was hatched to spoil law and order in Uttar Pradesh. Pathak said that a website called 'Justice for Hathras' was created to put Uttar Pradesh in the fire of violence under the cover of the Hathras case. The state government, taking the matter seriously, is trying to get to the bottom of the case, He added. Pathak further said that the matter of making the website is in the cognizance of the government. Live TV Meanwhile, an `open` FIR under 20 different sections at the Chandapa police station in Hathras was lodged against unnamed persons for `conspiring to create caste tensions and destabilise the Yogi Adityanath government". The various sections in the FIR include Sections 120 B, 153 A, 153 B, 195 , 195A, 465,468, 469, 501, 505 (b, c, 2) and Section 67 (transmitting obscene material in electronic form) of Information and Technology Act. The Hathras police reportedly registered around a dozen complaints under the IT Act related to the Dalit girl's case and they are being probed by the Cyber Cell. Sources said that those under the scanner include politicians, local people, and even journalists whose telephonic conversations with the victim`s family indicates that they were provoking them to give statements against the government. Opposition parties, especially the Congress, have been attacking the BJP government over the alleged gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-girl in Hathras. Congress has even demanded the Chief Minister`s resignation over the issue. The 19-year-old was allegedly raped in Hathras on September 14, and she died on September 29 at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital during treatment. The victim was cremated in the dead of the night near her home on September 30. Her family alleged they were forced by the local police to hurriedly conduct her last rites. Local police officers, however, said the cremation was carried out "as per the wishes of the family". Notably, the state government has already recommended a CBI probe in the matter. Yogi Adityanath has reportedly directed police to act in cases of crime against women and girls with full sensitivity. (With Agency Inputs) The strong retaliatory blows have already been dealt to the adversary. Vahram Poghosyan, spokesperson for the President, on Monday wrote about this on Facebook. The targets have been successfully hit, he added. On September 27, the Azerbaijani armed forces launched a large-scale attack against Artsakh, targeting its civilian population, too. As of October 4, the Artsakh Defense Army has destroyed the adversarys 14 combat helicopters, 17 warplanes, 124 drones, 368 units of armored vehiclesmainly tanks, 82 vehicles, and 10 armored personnel carriersone TOS-1A heavy artillery system, 4 Smerch and 1 Uragan rocket launcher systems. The adversary has over 3,145 casualties, more than 5,270 wounded. From the Armenian side, according to preliminary data, there are 230 casualties and more than 200 wounded. The Azerbaijani army also targeted the military and civilian infrastructure of Artsakh and Armenia, as a result of which 2 civilians were killed in Gegharkunik Province of Armenia and 14in Artsakh. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 19:14:18|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TEHRAN, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Iran's health ministry reported 3,902 new COVID-19 cases on Monday, raising the total confirmed number in the country to 475,674. The pandemic has so far taken 27,192 lives in Iran, up by 235 in the past 24 hours, said Sima Sadat Lari, spokeswoman for the Iranian Ministry of Health and Medical Education, during her daily briefing. A total of 392,293 people have recovered from the disease and been discharged from hospitals, while 4,167 remain in intensive care units. The spokeswoman added that 4,151,445 laboratory tests for the virus have been carried out in Iran by now. Currently, the risk of infection is high in 26 out of 31 Iranian provinces, according to the spokeswoman. Iran announced its first cases of COVID-19 on Feb. 19. Iran and China have offered mutual help in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. In mid-February, at the early stage of the coronavirus outbreak in China, Iran lit up the Tehran Azadi (Liberty) Tower to show its solidarity with China, and donated 3 million masks to China. In return, China delivered several shipments of medical supplies to Iran. On Feb. 29, a five-member Chinese medical team visited Iran for a month-long mission to help Iran fight the pandemic. Enditem A Chinese steel production company recently made international news headlines for offering 4,116 of its employees brand new cars as bonus for surpassing profit targets for the fifth consecutive year. On October 1st, Jiangxi West Dajiu Iron & Steel Corporation organized an epic event to celebrate its success and reward employees for contributing to its yearly growth. It was reported that the company had reported increasing profits for the last five years, and management wanted to do something special to thank the staff, so they decided to give each one of them a car. A total of 4,116 new vehicles 2,933 Jiangling Ford Territory and 1,183 FAW-Volkswagen Magotan were distributed in batches in the weeks prior to the National Day holiday. According to Chinese news outlet Sohu, the value of the 4,116 brand new cars is around 500 million yuan ($74 million), but the Jianxi company also announced that it will pay for the production of license plates for these vehicles, five-year auto insurance, as well as vehicle taxes. A few hundred new cars were lined up in an open space around a large stage for the October 1st celebration, and drone footage shot as a promotional material has been doing the rounds on Chinese social media for the past week. Reactions from the public have been mixed, with most users commending the steel corporation for sharing its profits with employees, and some looking for things to complain about. Some users commented that the Jianxy company could have simply given people checks so they could buy the cars they liked, but thats really splitting hairs. The company probably got a great deal from the car manufacturers, so they managed to save some money while giving millions away. But the change comes as a new study shows the number of older immigrants without legal status in Illinois is expected to grow exponentially in the next 10 years. The study suggests that the expansion of health care was only a first step, said Graciela Guzman, director of the Healthy Illinois Campaign. The group has advocated for a bill that would guarantee health care for all Illinoisans regardless of income or immigration status since 2016. Federal Cities and Urban Infrastructure Minister Alan Tudge has defended a decision to give NSW more than double the amount of funding for infrastructure projects than Victoria in the upcoming budget, despite the state's dire need for help in recovering from economic fallout of COVID-19. Victoria's coronavirus lockdown continues to drag on the nation's economy, with jobs lifting in all states and territories aside from Victoria last month. Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen On Monday, the federal government announced NSW would receive $2.7 billion for "shovel-ready" projects, as part of a $7.5 billion package in Tuesday's budget, while revealing just $1.1 billion had been earmarked for Victoria. The Victorian funding is set to go to accelerated projects, including upgrades of the Shepparton, Warrnambool and South Geelong to Waurn Ponds rail lines, as well as a number of smaller scale projects in Melbourne, and is expected to create 4000 jobs. THERE has been another significant increase in the number of new confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Limerick. In its daily update, the National Public Health Emergency Team says an additional 49 cases of the disease have been reported this Monday. Nationally, 518 new confirmed cases have been reported with no additional deaths. Of the latest cases, 134 are in Dublin, 53 in Cork, 49 in Limerick, 34 in Donegal, 32 in Meath. The remaining 216 cases are spread across 20 counties. More than two thirds (68%) are under 45 years of age while 30% are confirmed to be associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case. 78 cases have been identified as community transmission. Last night, 24 new cases of Covid-19 were reported in Limerick; 31 confirmed cases were reported on Saturday, 19 cases on Friday, six cases on Thursday and 12 last Wednesday. Commenting on today's figures, Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health, said: "We have seen in recent days a significant and concerning deterioration in the epidemiological situation nationally. It is vital that we do everything in our power now to arrest the current trajectory nationally and very substantially suppress the virus back down to a low level of transmission in advance of the winter months." Dr Holohan, who met with the Government party leaders earlier, is appealing to people to abide by the public health guidelines. "Do not become distracted from the core public health messages; wash hands regularly, keep your distance, wear face coverings where appropriate, avoid crowded environments, cut your social contacts down to minimum levels, know the symptoms and isolate yourself and contact your GP immediately if you experience them. Dr. Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at the Department of Health, said: Our core priorities have to be protected. We must work together to keep our non-covid health services open, keep our children in education and protect the lives of the most vulnerable to this disease. Solidarity is now more important than ever as we work to once again suppress this virus in our communities. The Government is expected to approve the introduction of Level 3 restrictions in Limerick and across the country from midnight. Radioactivethinking.com scored 41 Social Media Impact. Social Media Impact score is a measure of how much a site is popular on social networks. 2/5.0 Stars by Social Team This CoolSocial report was updated on 18 Nov 2012, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want. The total number of people who shared the radioactivethinking homepage on StumbleUpon. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared, liked or recommended the radioactivethinking homepage on Facebook + the total number of page likes (if radioactivethinking has a Facebook fan page). The total number of people who shared the radioactivethinking homepage on Delicious. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared the radioactivethinking homepage on Twitter + the total number of radioactivethinking followers (if radioactivethinking has a Twitter account). The total number of people who shared the radioactivethinking homepage on Google Plus by a google +1 button. Basic Information PAGE TITLE Radioactive Thinking by Abby Junge DESCRIPTION KEYWORDS OTHER KEYWORDS The title found in the head section of the homepage. The URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the address of the site. The description meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage. The keywords meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage. CoolSocial advanced keyword analysis tool is able to detect and analyze every keyword on each page of a site. Domain and Server DOCTYPE HTML 5.0 CHARSET AND LANGUAGE UTF-8 DETECTED LANGUAGE English English SERVER Microsoft-IIS/7.0 (ASP.NET) OPERATIVE SYSTEM Windows Server 2008 Windows Server 2008 Character set and language of the site. Represents HTML declared type (e.g.: XHTML 1.1, HTML 4.0, the new HTML 5.0) Type of server and offered services. Operative System running on the server. The language of radioactivethinking.com as detected by CoolSocial algorithms. Site Traffic trend during the last year. Only available for sites ranked <= 100000 in the world. Referring domains for radioactivethinking.com by MajesticSeo. High values are a sign of site importance over the web and on web engines. Facebook link FACEBOOK PAGE LINK NOT FOUND The description of the Facebook page describes website and its services to the social media users. A Facebook page link can be found in the homepage or in the robots.txt file. The URL of the found Facebook page. The total number of people who like website Facebook page. Facebook Timeline is the new layout of Facebook pages. The total number of people who tagged or talked about website Facebook page in the last 7-10 days. The type of Facebook page. Twitter account link TWITTER PAGE LINK NOT FOUND Kayleigh McEnany, President Donald Trumps press secretary, announced on Monday that she has tested positive for the coronavirus and remains asymptomatic. In a tweet, McEnany, said that she had tested negative for the virus that has infected more than 7 million Americans every day since Thursday. McEnany said the positive test came back on Monday. McEnany said that she hasnt had any close contact with any reporters, producers or any members of the press. McEnany is the latest person close to Trump to test positive for the coronavirus. Trump and First Lady Melania Trump announced that they tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday. The announcement came a few hours after he and the first lady began a quarantine process as they awaited test results, after a close aide, Hope Hicks, tested positive for the virus. At least 11 people in Trumps inner circle have tested positive for coronavirus, including Nicholas Lunca, his assistant, U.S. Senators Mike Lee, Ron Jonson and Thom Tillis, former counselor to Trump, Kellyanne Conway, his campaign manager Bill Stepien, RNC chairwoman Ronna McDaniel and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. Vice President Mike Pence has tested negative for the virus. Sec. of State Mike Pompeo, Sec. of Treasury Steve Mnuchin, Sec. of Defense Mark Esper and Sec. of Commerce Wilbur Ross also tested negative. Attorney General William Bar along with Trumps children have also tested negative for the coronavirus. Related Content: Those who remain in the camp will not be the responsibility of the Self-Administration, Ahmed said, referring to an autonomous region in northeastern Syria. It was not clear what this would mean in practice. The announcement did not refer to the network of prisons holding some 10,000 male detainees, several thousand of them foreigners. Demonstrators took part in rallies in hundreds of locations throughout Israel Saturday, in defiance the governments new legislation banning protests during the lockdown. The protests, encompassing an estimated 130,000 people in total, follow the months-long twice weekly protests calling for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to resign. Netanyahu has been indicted on charges of bribery, corruption, and breach of trust in three separate cases and faces growing anger at his disastrous mishandling of the pandemic and the economy. His ban on protests backfired, swelling the numbers who took to the streets. The protests were organized by the Black Flag movement, Arise Israel, and the Crime Minister campaign, under the banner A kilometer it is,a reference to the law passed by an all-night Knesset session on Wednesday night, banning protesters from rallying more than one kilometre from their homes and outdoor gatherings of more than 20 people during the coronavirus lockdown. Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu (Credit: en.kremlin.ru) Protesters included members of the opposition parties, Netanyahus Likud voters and religious and ultra-Orthodox Israelis. Some called for former army chief of staff Benny Gantzs Blue and White party to withdraw from the National Emergency Government formed just four months ago. Clashes with the police broke out in Tel Aviv leading to at least 38 arrests, with arrests in other parts of the country and police dispersing demonstrations and imposing hundreds of fines for violating restrictions. Videos circulating on social media show police violence, including stopping journalist Jonathan Hempel from photographing a march in Tel Aviv and throwing him to the ground. There were several reports of Netanyahus supporters attacking protesters, prompting the rallies organisers to accuse him of incitement that could lead to civil war. Netanyahu has denounced protesters as anarchists, leftists and traitors out to topple a strong right-wing leader. It is part of Netanyahus move to assert his own political dominance amid a broader range of authoritarian measures aimed at curbing opposition and dissent under the cover of the pandemic. Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit has sanctioned the transfer of personal data to the head of Military Intelligence, Major General Tamir Heyman. He was given sweeping access to all the Tax Authoritys data on private Israeli citizens. Tax Authority spokeswoman Idit Lev Zerahia refused to explain the new measure, whose legality is unclear, but revealed that a similar permission had been given to the heads of the Shin Bet security service, Mossad, the Crossing Points Authority in the Defense Ministry, the Anti-Terrorist Unit, the Defense Ministry department for the Oversight of Defense Exports as well as the Money Laundering Authority at the Justice Ministry. With the onset of the pandemic, the government, using its emergency powers, authorised Shin Bet to use its technological surveillance tools; gave the police sweeping powers to pinpoint cellphone location and use drones to catch quarantine violators; allowed the hospitals to film and eavesdrop on patients; and installed facial identification systems. Israeli workers now face measures long associated with the suppression of the Palestinians in the territories illegally occupied by Israel since their seizure in the June 1967 war. The new legislation follows the tightening of the second lockdown restrictionsIsrael is the first country to impose a second national lockdown, albeit less strict than the first. According to opinion polls, only about a quarter of the public has confidence in the way Netanyahu has dealt with the pandemic. Such is the dissent within his dysfunctional cabinet that it rarely convenes and did not meet for more than a month in the run up to the second lockdown. Netanyahu tried to argue that the move was similar to the limitation on the size of synagogue services over the Jewish holidays, even though these were held indoors in crowded spaces and were attended by the ultra-Orthodox communities that have by far the highest infection and morbidity rates. Likud had sought to have the ban on mass protests remain in effect even after the lockdown was lifted, a demand the Knesset rejected. Netanyahu had called for a state of emergency to be declared, a move disqualified by Attorney General Avichai Mendelblit on legal grounds. Earlier demonstrations saw soldiers deployed to help the police, leading to widespread public outrage. Gantz, as Minister of Defence and Lieutenant General Aviv Kochavi, the head of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), were forced to says they would stop the use of soldiers. Gantz nevertheless praised the unparalleled work being carried out by police officers and soldiers, stating, I strongly condemn the attempts to attack them as they carry out their duties. His real fear was that the army would be seen for what it is, the armed body of men and women imposing the rule of Israels venal bourgeoisie, of which Netanyahu is only the most noxious example. Israel, with a population of 9 million, has recorded more than 260,000 infections and nearly 1,700 deaths, the highest toll in the world on a per capita basis. The most susceptible to the virus are Israels Palestinian citizens, who suffer budgetary discrimination, and its ultra-Orthodox communities, the poorest communities in the country with inadequate housing and poor education, health, and other public services. The number of confirmed cases has risen to 51,000 in the West Bank and 2,613 in Gaza, while there have been 376 deaths in the West Bank and 19 in Gaza. With totally inadequate healthcare facilities due to Israels occupation, its punitive withholding of taxation and utility revenues to the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank and the 13-year long blockade of Gaza, the lockdown has taken a heavy toll on peoples livelihoods and brought many to the brink of starvation. The protests, while growing, are still relatively small, in part because they have no political party or program but also because of the disillusionment with all the official parties that claim to oppose Netanyahu. Blue and White, the main centre-left opposition bloc under Gantzs leadership, fought three elections claiming it would not serve under a Netanyahu-led government, only to do so as the pandemic brought Israels economy to its knees and Netanyahu reopened the economy in the interests of Israels corporate and financial oligarchs. But the fact the protests have taken place after the ban was put in place testifies to the explosive nature of social relations in Israel today. These new protests are developing alongside struggles in Iraq, Lebanon, Iran, Egypt, and Sudan as well as in the US and Europe. The key issue this raises is to establish the political independence of the working class from all of the various bourgeois parties and the unification with workers in struggle throughout the region. In 2011, a social justice protest movement over the soaring cost of housing erupted, at the same time as the Arab Spring protests in Egypt, Tunisia and elsewhere. But as with Egypt, a leadership drawn from the pseudo left milieu that reflected the interests of affluent sections of the upper-middle class served to prevent the emergence of a unified political challenge to the bourgeois powers of the region and to imperialism. Two of their leaders went onto to serve in the Knesset as members of the Labour Party, which later joined Blue and White and the National Emergency Government, with Itzik Shmuli now serving as Welfare Minister. The fundamental issue remains that of building a new leadership to unify and mobilise the working class across the region against capitalism, imperialism and war, and for socialism. Such parties must be built as sections of the International Committee of the Fourth International in Israel and across the Middle East. By Associated Press NEW YORK: Presidential politics move fast. What we're watching heading into a new week on the 2020 campaign: Days to general election: 29. Days to next presidential debate: 8. The narrative President Donald Trump spent the weekend in the hospital after testing positive for COVID-19, a stunning development that injected a new layer of chaos into an already turbulent 2020 contest just one month before Election Day. No first-term president has suffered such a serious health setback so close to an election. Trump's hospitalization has refocused the election right where Democrat Joe Biden wants it: on Trump's uneven leadership throughout the pandemic. The Republican president has struggled to manage the nation's response to the health crisis. After ignoring his own health experts' recommendations for several months, now he and several senior Republicans, not to mention first lady Melania Trump, are infected. ALSO READ | Donald Trump criticized for leaving hospital to greet supporters amid Covid treatment The revelation came days after an ugly debate performance that already had Trump's allies on the defensive. While things certainly seem to be trending in Biden's direction, 29 days is plenty of time for another October surprise. Or three. The big questions How long will Trump be quarantined? There is nothing more important to the Trump campaign than having its principal healthy and back on the campaign trail. For now, no one knows when that might happen. A best-case scenario might allow Trump to emerge just before the next presidential debate, scheduled for October 15. (The CDC says infected people can see others 10 days after symptoms first appear at the earliest, so long as symptoms are improving.) Trump could leave the hospital on Monday at the earliest, his doctors said Sunday, but his health remains in flux. This is a moment that transcends politics, yet millions of people are already voting and Election Day looms in less than a month. Campaign manager Bill Stepien, who's also infected, described Trump as the campaign's best asset over the weekend. Republicans want him back ASAP. What does the Trump campaign do now? Trump's team over the weekend announced plans to aggressively dispatch Vice President Mike Pence and Trump's family to key swing states after Wednesday's vice presidential debate to help the campaign regain momentum. It's unclear, however, how the plan dubbed "Operation MAGA" differs from the campaign's previous strategy. The president's top surrogates have been active on the campaign trail for months. It may be too late to adjust the campaign's message, but after trying to downplay the pandemic for months, Republicans now have no choice but to take seriously the deadly disease and the its mounting death toll. Is the VP debate suddenly a much bigger deal? Pence and Sen. Kamala Harris are set to face off Wednesday night in Utah for the only vice presidential debate. Trump's health status makes the typically lower-profile affair more consequential. Vice presidential candidates are typically quite cautious when in the spotlight, aware that their principal responsibility is to do no harm to the top of the ticket. The burden to get them to answer difficult questions falls to the moderator, Susan Page, the Washington bureau chief of USA Today. Pence may be particularly vulnerable given his role as the head of the White House's coronavirus task force. By most standard measures, America has fared far worse than other developed countries in controlling the virus. Can Biden keep his party focused? This is a delicate moment for Democrats. We saw Republicans seize on a handful of ugly social media attacks from low-profile liberals who wished the president ill, or worse, in the immediate aftermath of his diagnosis. Such comments have largely faded away, which is good for everyone involved. Biden needs to ensure his is the dominant voice for his party through Trump's health crisis. The Democrat has been delivering an optimistic message of unity since the very beginning of his campaign, a message that meets this moment as well. He was roundly praised for pulling attack ads off the air after Trump's hospitalization, and his surrogates on Sunday largely kept up the positive tone. The nation's attention is focused on Trump's inability to manage a crisis in public health that includes his own. His campaign desperately wants to shift the focus. And misplaced resentment or pettiness at a moment like this would help them do it. The final thought We're seeing in real-time the effects of Trump's well-documented, often casual association with facts. In a genuine moment of national crisis, many people don't know what to believe about the health of their leader. Trump's medical team and advisers offered conflicting information and refused to answer key questions about his health throughout the weekend. Even before the latest round misinformation, 7 in 10 Americans did not believe what Trump says about the coronavirus, according to a recent ABC News/Ipsos poll. At moments like these, a nation needs to be able to trust its leaders. Right now, it doesn't. 2020 Watch runs every Monday and provides a look at the week ahead in the 2020 election. Mr. Hajiyev, are the apartments in [Artsakhs (Nagorno-Karabakh)] Stepanakert, Hadrut, Martakert, Martuni, the gas station, the rescue service building, etc., targets of military significance? Artsrun Hovhannisyan, a representative of the Ministry of Defense of Armenia, wrote this on Facebook Monday, addressing Hikmet Hajiyev, the foreign policy adviser to the president of Azerbaijan. On September 27, the Azerbaijani armed forces launched a large-scale attack against Artsakh, targeting its civilian population, too. As of October 4, the Artsakh Defense Army has destroyed the adversarys 14 combat helicopters, 17 warplanes, 124 drones, 368 units of armored vehiclesmainly tanks, 82 vehicles, and 10 armored personnel carriersone TOS-1A heavy artillery system, 4 Smerch and 1 Uragan rocket launcher systems. The adversary has over 3,145 casualties, more than 5,270 wounded. From the Armenian side, according to preliminary data, there are 209 casualties and more than 200 wounded. The Azerbaijani army also targeted the military and civilian infrastructure of Artsakh and Armenia, as a result of which 2 civilians were killed in Gegharkunik Province of Armenia and 14in Artsakh. Update: Michigan health department issues order requiring masks, limiting gathering sizes statewide WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI People in Washtenaw County will still be required to wear a face covering, eat at half-full restaurants and keep gathering sizes low, as ordered by the Washtenaw County Health Department on Monday. Health Officer Jimena Loveluck issued four public health emergency orders on Oct. 5 as the question of Gov. Gretchen Whitmers length of emergency orders' implementation is in question. Many of Whitmers emergency orders were invalidated Friday when the Michigan Supreme Court called them unconstitutional. Local health officials can still issue mandates during public health emergencies. Related: As Gov. Whitmers coronavirus orders fizzle, health departments across Michigan consider their own The orders say that residents, businesses and organizations should continue wearing a face mask in public settings, limit the size of indoor and outdoor gatherings, keep capacity of bars and restaurants to 50% or less and conduct mandatory daily health screenings of employees working in-person. We must continue working together to reduce the spread of illness and protect everyones health," Loveluck said in a statement. The pandemic is not over, and we must remain cautious even as we work to resume as much normalcy as possible as safely as possible." The mask mandate requires anyone who leaves their home to wear a face covering over their nose and mouth when outdoors and unable to maintain at least six feet of distance, including students in K-12 and athletes during practice and competition, according to the order. Gatherings are restricted to indoors of ten people or less, according to the order. Outdoor gatherings can be up to 1,000 people, outside of the cities of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, provided attendance is limited to either 30% of seating capacity or 30 people per 1,000 square-feet of the venue. If its less than 500 people, capacity should be limited to 20% of seating abilities or 20 people per 1,000 square-feet of the venue. In Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, outdoor gatherings are limited to no more than 25 people, according to the order. Related: Outdoor gatherings in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti restricted to 25 people, health officials say Employers must at least screen their employees for a fever and other symptoms of COVID-19 and ask if they have had close contact with a COVID-19 positive person if they work in person, according to the order. To view the full text of the orders, visit the county health departments website. Washtenaw County has identified 493 new cases of the coronavirus in the two week period between Sept. 17 and Oct. 1, according to the health department. Almost 80% of new cases are in 18 to 22-year-olds, suggesting spread of COVID-19 has mostly been found in young adults and students in the university communities of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. In total, Washtenaw County has had 4,016 confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 since March and 119 county residents have died from the virus. County health officials identify about 31.6 cases daily, according to statewide data. Thats the second-highest risk category. Positivity, or the rate at which COVID-19 tests show a patient has the virus, is at about 2.2% -- the lowest risk level. COVID-19 PREVENTION TIPS In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus. Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible. Use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and carry hand sanitizer with you when you go into places like stores. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has also issued executive orders requiring people to wear face coverings over their mouth and nose while in public indoor and crowded outdoor spaces. See an explanation of what that means here. Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. For more data on COVID-19 in Michigan, visit https://www.mlive.com/coronavirus/data/. WEST HARTFORD Back in 1998 when Matt Warshauer moved into his house on Main Street, he decorated for Halloween in typical fashion with pumpkins, spiders and witches on trees. But reality became scarier than fiction for him in 2003 with the Iraq War. Warshauer said that was the first year he introduced political themes to his Halloween displays, enlisting the help of his daughters. In 2003 with the American invasion of Iraq, I felt like I needed to make a statement, he said. That year, he created an effigy of then-President George W. Bush and then-Vice President Dick Cheney, both wearing pants covered in flames, next to a sign that read liar, liar, pants on fire. Over the years, local residents have come to know Warshauers home as the Halloween House as thousands pass by each day on the busy West Hartford street. Warshauer, a history professor at Central Connecticut State University, said this years display and the one in 2003 were his response to gigantic lies ... whether its lying to send us to war or lying about the legacy of systemic racism ... and the COVID-19 pandemic. This years display highlights what Warshauer said are the two leading cultural and political issues and that is obviously COVID and the Black Lives Matter movement. With the help of his three daughters, ranging in age from 16 to 20, Warshauer finished the installation of this years display on Sept. 26. One part of the display features a COVID-19 panel covered in Styrofoam virus molecules and honors some of those who died from the illness, while also providing data and information from the COVID-19 pandemic and the Spanish Flu in 1918. The Black Lives Matter portion of the display focuses on the origins of the movement, the history of slavery and the impacts of systemic racism. It includes quotes from leaders like Frederick Douglass and Martin Luther King Jr. There are also memorials to well-known Black Americans killed by police, including George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. This years display also features a public art aspect something Warshauer said he introduced about five years ago after his daughter added a wall as part of a Vietnam War display in honor of the 50th anniversary and urged passersby to write the name of a veteran. That year, there were hundreds of responses, he said. He said hes hopeful this years display will create as much interest. A panel that states what is your truth gives visitors a chance to react to Warshauers display and further stimulate conversation. I havent heard anything negative yet, he said of the display, adding that hes had several productive conversations with strangers about the displays. Earlier this week, Warshauer, who is white, said he was talking to two Black women when a Black man in his mid-20s drove by and pulled a U-turn to see the display. Warshauer said the man told him the display gave him goosebumps. The four of us stood there and we had this moment, Warshauer recalled. Those moments are why I do it. I am trying to tap into something so that when people see the display, they know theyre not alone in how theyre feeling. Warshauer said his Halloween displays have grown bigger and more elaborate over the last decade. Some years, especially when theres a big election, he said he uses his display to showcase a very specific political message. In 2017, for example, he said he created one of the most complicated and time-consuming things he has ever built garnering the attention of national news outlets when he installed a display he called The Trumpian Ship of State in reaction to the 2016 election. The 2017 display was featured on Fox News, and he said it led to some backlash with people calling for CCSU to fire him. My displays never hurt anyone, he said. Theyve never been a hateful message ... It is mean to present ideas in an out-of-the-box way and to get people to reach a little bit deeper into their own hearts and minds and maybe re-consider what they believe. This year though, he said he didnt want to feature either presidential candidate. I didnt want any images of Trump. I didnt even want his name or Bidens for that matter, he said. Our country is so frenzied right now, so I decided to avoid that. by Kenneth Corbilla On 14 April 2021, the Philippines will celebrate the first baptism in the country, which is featured in the logo of 500 Year of Christianity, led by the Archdiocese of Cebu. The theme of the celebration, Gifted to Give, comes from the Gospel of Matthew (10:8). Manila (AsiaNews) Due to the pandemic, the celebration of 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines has been postponed until next year, announced Bishop Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan, acting president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines. The decision was made due to the rising number of coronavirus cases the country is facing right now. "Due to the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it was necessary to change the schedule of our celebration of 500 years of Christianity, he said. The main event will be held in April 2021 and mark the start of a year-long celebrations. The date commemorates the first Mass celebrated in the Philippines on Easter Sunday on Limasawa Island, southern Leyte, Visayas Region. Christianity spread after Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer, landed in the Philippines in 1521, as part of the expedition to reach the East by sailing West, and planted the cross that symbolises the start of the religion in the Philippines. Other celebrations have been rescheduled due to the pandemic. the International Mission Congress (IMC) and the 2nd National Mission Congress were moved to April 2022. The CBCPs acting president also cancelled the National Retreat for the Clergy, scheduled for 4-6 August 2021. The CBCP Commission of the Clergy replaced it with a series of conferences on Church history in the Philippines. Each (CBCP) Commission will also make adjustments to their plans due to the crisis that we are going through, Bishop David said. Almost 80 per cent of the Philippine population is Christian, mostly Catholic. New Delhi, Oct 5 : The results for the Joint Entrance Examination, (JEE) Advanced 2020 were declared by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi on Monday. Chirag Falor from the IIT Bombay zone topped the examination while Kanishka Mittal of IIT Roorkee zone secured the second position. More than 40,000 students have passed the engineering entrance examination. Chirag scored 352 of 396 marks while Kanishka Mittal, who finished second, secured 315 of 396 marks in the IIT-JEE exam. As many as 1,50,838 students took the JEE Advanced exam after passing the JEE Main exam. Of these, 43,204 students have cleared the JEE Advanced examination. Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' on Monday congratulated the students who passed the JEE Advanced exam. Nishank spoke to the toppers on the phone and also felicitated the National Testing Agency (NTA) for successfully conducting the examination amid the corona pandemic. Lauding the NTA, Nishank said, "The Ministry of Education had decided to conduct the examination despite the corona pandemic and entrusted the responsibility to the NTA. The NTA has performed its duty well. Keeping in mind the safety of all students and teachers, necessary arrangements were made at the examination centres." The Minister congratulated all the students who passed the examination. He also thanked the parents for reposing their trust in the government during such difficult times. Appreciating the hard work by the students, Nishank said, "The students kept themselves mentally strong during this difficult period which is quite commendable. I congratulate them all and wish them a better future." -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun spoke separately to the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia on Monday and urged an immediate ceasefire in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, the State Department said. In his conversations with the ministers, Biegun expressed "deep concern over reports of the escalation of military action and expanding theater of operations in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict," the department said in a statement. Search Keywords: Short link: Video of a KCPD officer arresting a young black woman and putting his knee on her back as he threw her to the ground has ignited outcry throughout Kansas City's urban core. Right now protesters occupy 12th & Oak and vow to stay there until KCPD Chief of Police Rick Smith is fired or until they're forcibly removed. Meanwhile, spokesmen for the police have attempted to offer more insight into the arrest and communicate their understanding and concern with the safety of the pregnant woman and her baby who, they claim, were not harmed during the incident. Right now City Hall is under an "indefinite occupation" sparked by this controversy. Meanwhile, the mayor hasn't offered any meaningful public statement about the incident or even a social media blast. To wit . . . MAYOR QUINTON LUCAS NOW CONFRONTS REBUKE FROM BOTH POLICE AND COMMUNITY FOR HIS SILENCE!!! From the protest side . . . Just check the social media profile of activist attorney Stacy Shaw wherein she has consistently criticized the mayor for refusing to take a stand. Comments and social media questions have also dogged the Mayor Lucas for his quietude. Meanwhile, whist police and their supporters don't expect much out of city hall. Still, kindly po-po readers among our blog community seem cautiously optimistic and express hope that Mayor Q will at least give them a fair shake. Off-the-record, here's the word from a TKC police pal . . . "This is an opportunity for the mayor. Look at that video and see that this was a dangerous situation and there were multiple complaints about the disturbance. We're all grown-ups in Kansas City, we know that arrests don't always look nice but the important thing to remember here is that the woman and her baby didn't sustain injury from police in any way. Speaking up against a social media campaign against KCPD would be a perfect chance for the mayor to show everyone that he cares about PUBLIC SAFETY for all residents first and foremost." Nevertheless . . . MAYOR Q CONTINUES HIS SILENCE THIS WEEKEND DESPITE DEMANDS FOR A STATEMENT AND CONTINUED OUTCRY FOR HIM TO PICK A SIDE!!! Sadly, insiders tell us that we can only expect another equivocating lecture from the mayor this week. Sources close to the mayor's camp reveal that he'll attempt to facilitate a dialogue and might even call for further investigation but will ultimately FAIL to offer any guidance or leadership in a situation where police and community are once again at odds. As KCMO confronts a record breaking murder rate for 2020 and the threat of more violence, civil unrest and tension with police escalates the mayor attempting to play a neutral 3rd party won't resonate with residents or voters and merely serves to explain the dearth of leadership that has preceded this crisis. Developing . . . FAIRFIELD - Dogs, a couple cats and a pair of bearded dragons joined the congregation at Trinity Episcopal Church on Sunday afternoon when the church hosted its annual Blessing of the Animals. Socially distanced on the lawn outside the church, pets sat with their owners before a procession to receive a blessing from the Rev. Peggy Hodgkins. The Rev. Robert Kwan provided musical accompaniment, while soloist the Rev. Rob Laughton sang, "All Creatures Great and Small," among other selections. Increases in air connectivity and visitor arrivals, support for tourism infrastructure and product development, the creation of health and safety protocols, and several accolades and recognitions all are the direct result of the first two years of Governor Mauricio Vila Dosal and his administration, working with the Ministry of Tourism of Yucatan to develop, strengthen and promote the states tourism industry, using a sustainable approach. (TRAVPR.COM) UNITED STATES - October 5th, 2020 - Increases in air connectivity and visitor arrivals, support for tourism infrastructure and product development, the creation of health and safety protocols, and several accolades and recognitions all are the direct result of the first two years of Governor Mauricio Vila Dosal and his administration, working with the Ministry of Tourism of Yucatan to develop, strengthen and promote the states tourism industry, using a sustainable approach. Facing the global challenges in the tourism activity, the State of Yucatan has not stopped for a single moment, said Michelle Fridman Hirsch, head of the Ministry of Tourism of Yucatan. Efforts have even been redoubled to move after the effects of the pandemic, towards a gradual and safe reactivation to contribute, in the first instance, to the economic recovery of the Yucatecan population and the state. In just 24 months, the governor and his administration have better positioned the Yucatan brand as a national and international tourist destination of note. This is reflected in the more than 3.2 million visitors who arrived by land and sea in 2019. This number a record for Yucatan, including more than 2 million overnight visitors represented an increase of 14.5% in overall arrivals and a 26.9% jump in international visitors over the previous year. Yucatan maintained positive numbers until the first two months of 2020, prior to the Covid-19 crisis, with an increase of 9.1% in the arrival of overnight visitors compared to the same period in 2019, when it registered the arrival of 344,978 tourists. Regarding air connectivity, 104,000-plus seats and six new routes that opened new markets to Yucatan have been added. Today, the international airport of capital city Merida is doubling the capacity of its air terminal through important infrastructure improvements. To date, there is more than 770 MD of private tourism investment in hotels, restaurants, marinas, tourist parks and tourist products, among others. This is possible thanks to constant work on all the issues that give certainty and confidence to investors, such as strengthening security and various regulatory improvements, as well as the introduction of tax incentives for investors in the interior of the state. The Ministry of Tourism of Yucatan invested nearly 2.7 MD in the urban improvements in the tourist area of Puerto Progreso to provide visitors and cruise passengers with recreation areas, as well as the installation of a modern lighting system at the port dock. With these improvements, the arrival of more than 40 additional cruise ships from different international shipping companies was completed for 2020 and 2021. The previous year, the cruise segment saw an increase of 6.1% with the arrival of 146 cruise ships carrying 470,418 passengers. One of the main goals of the Ministry of Tourism of Yucatan ongoing efforts is innovation with a sustainable vision. More than 60 new tourism products have been developed and integrated in the states six tourism regions, covering market segments such as nature, culture, gastronomy, beach, adventure and urban premium, among others. With this effort, it was possible to highlight and bring tourism products to places like Tekax, which saw a new tourism surge, increasing its visitor numbers by 300%. Today, the historical city briefly the state capital, in 1845 has new investments and more qualified personnel. The unprecedented and complex health crisis that followed in the wake of Covid-19 requires a special mention, as it is the worst crisis that the tourism industry has faced globally in decades. Yucatans Recovery Plan includes, among other things, support strategies for the preservation of tourism companies, a thermometer to measure the impact on the tourism industry, emerging economic programs, online training efforts, reconstruction programs for tourism, a Biosecurity Risk Prevention Certificate and a strict program of reactivation in adherence with health and safety practices. Yucatans Certificate of Biosecurity Risk Prevention program, with more than 1,200 registered tourism service providers and 528 certificates, is one of the most robust such efforts in the country and the second to be endorsed by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), after the state of Quintana Roo. "All of the above has, with the vast cultural, natural and gastronomic wealth that Yucatan has, allowed us to nominate various places or attractions of the destination and obtain national and international accolades that position Yucatan in the top of mind of travelers," said Fridman Hirsch, adding that the objective of the Yucatan Tourism Board is to strengthen tourism in Yucatan and that this is reflected in the people and their communities, respecting the environment, the culture and Yucatecan essence, with innovation, training, sustainability and transparency. Likewise, the governors office and tourism ministry work in close coordination with various agencies developing plans and projects, such as the expansion and remodeling of the Yucatan Siglo XXI Convention and Exhibition Center in Merida. The project, undertaken after Merida was chosen to host this year, the 45th edition of Tianguis Turistico Mexico, the major trade and tourism event in Mexico, will allow Yucatan to consolidate its position as a leader in the meetings segment, which represents 1.5% of national GDP and which had already been registering, for Yucatan, 46.9% growth in 2019 versus the year prior. In this sense, Yucatan has positioned itself within the meetings industry as one of the most complete and attractive destinations in its region to host congresses, conventions, and incentive travels. Meridas event venues have hosted important congresses and conventions such as the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates, which brought together the largest number of Nobel winners in the capital for an event watched by more than 25 million people worldwide. ### (Natural News) Conventional drugs can be taken orally in different formsfrom liquid syrups, gelatin capsules, and compressed tablets to soft-gel formulations. However, researchers from the University of Bristol in the U.K. have proposed a new method of orally administering drugs: by adding them in chewing gum. The researchers study, published in IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, involved the use of a specialized robot that imitates humans chewing behavior. The robot had teeth similar to humans, followed jaw movements and even produced artificial saliva. For the study, the researchers used commercially available chewing gum containing xylitol a sugar substitute with considerable health properties. The team then made the robot and human participants masticate chewing gum containing xylitol. Saliva from the human participants and artificial saliva produced by the chewing robot were collected after five minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes and 20 minutes of continuous mastication. The researchers then measured the xylitol levels released in the saliva samples collected from the robot and human participants after 20 minutes of non-stop chewing. Two observations were noted during the study. First, the rate of xylitol release from the gum in both the chewing robot and the human participants was similar. Second, the gum released the greatest amount of xylitol during the first five minutes of chewing and only a small amount of xylitol remained from the bolus or chewing gum leftovers after 20 minutes. The second observation was noted for both the chewing robot and human participants. Xylitol: A sweet additive for oral health in chewing gums The researchers measured the amount of xylitol released by the chewing gum in saliva samples for the study, but what exactly is xylitol? Xylitol is a sugar substitute commonly extracted from plant sources such as birch trees. It tastes similar to regular table sugar, but contains 40 percent less calories and does not affect blood sugar or insulin levels. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved its use as a food additive in 1986, and since then, it has been listed as an ingredient in sugar-free chewing gums and mints. A November 2014 study by researchers in India found that xylitol was effective in starving bacteria responsible for cavities such as Streptococcus mutans and Helicobacter pylori. This is because oral bacteria cannot ferment xylitol for energy as compared to other sugars, essentially disrupting their energy production and inhibiting bacterial growth in the oral cavity. Xylitol may be good for humans, but not so for dogs as it triggers a rapid release of insulin from their pancreas plunging their blood sugar to dangerously low levels. The mechanical chewing robot will pave the way for studies on medicated chewing gums The researchers behind the chewing robot elaborated on how it can kick-start research on medicated chewing gums. Kazem Alemzadeh, one of the researchers behind the study, said: Our research has shown the chewing robot gives pharmaceutical companies the opportunity to investigate medicated chewing gum with reduced patient exposure and lower costs using this new method. He also mentioned that the team used bioengineering to create an artificial environment similar to that of the human mouth. Nicola West, another member of the research team, said of the study: The most convenient drug administration route to patients is through oral delivery methods. This research, utilizing a novel humanoid artificial oral environment, has the potential to revolutionize investigation into oral drug release and delivery. Meanwhile, other studies on medicated chewing gums are already underway. In 2017, a team of researchers from the Netherlands tested chewing gum with cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in marijuana, as a cure for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Researchers from the Wageningen University studied the CanChew Plus chewing gum and how it addresses the symptoms of IBS. Preliminary research has suggested that the cannabidiol in CanChew Plus interacts with the cannabinoid receptors inside the digestive tract to loosen tension-reducing stomach cramps and bloating and normalizing stool. Learn more about novel ways of delivering medicine orally by using chewing gums and more at Medicine.news. Sources include: StudyFinds.org IEEE.org Healthline.com WashDent.com Dovepress.com Bristol.ac.uk With international travel almost nonexistent because of the coronavirus pandemic, the global tourism industry is finding new ways to make money. In Asia, one way companies are trying to stay profitable is through so-called "flights to nowhere," as VOA's Bill Gallo explains from Seoul. VOA Khmer's Sisovann Pin narrates. AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- ICYMI The Texas Education Agency announced Great Minds as the creator of PhD Science TEKS Edition for Texas home learning for Grades K5. This follows the agency's selection of Great Minds to create Eureka Math in Sync TEKS Edition for Grades K5. The TEA news release is below. Great Minds contact: Chad Colby, [email protected], 202-297-9437. The Texas Education Agency today announced the next set of instructional materials covering K-12 English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR), K-5 Spanish Language Arts and Reading (SLAR), and K-5 Science that will be made available to school systems through the Texas Home Learning 3.0 (THL 3.0) initiative. Like other THL 3.0 offerings, these instructional materials are optional, digitized, customized for Texas, and aligned to Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS)the state standards for what students should know and be able to do. TEA has partnered with Amplify for K-8 ELAR and K-5 SLAR, Odell Education for 9-12 ELAR, and Great Minds for K-5 Science to develop and deliver this next set of high-quality resources including TEKS-aligned unit and lesson plans. Additional materials will be released on a continuous basis. Before release, all THL 3.0 instructional materials undergo a rigorous review that includes Texas teacher feedback to confirm alignment with TEKS and quality standards. Additional THL 3.0 instructional materials for other subjects and grade levels will be announced over the coming weeks. "As the pandemic continues to disrupt public education across our state, TEA is committed to supporting schools with effective distance learning resources," said Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath. Amplify's K-5 Texas Elementary Literacy Program for ELAR and SLAR and 6-8 Amplify ELAR Texas are TEKS-aligned language arts curriculum designed to support Texas learners in the classroom, at home, or wherever learning takes place. Built on the science of teaching reading, the K-5 Amplify Texas Elementary Literacy Program combines foundational skills with content knowledgeso that learning to read and reading to learn develop together. The 6-8 Amplify ELAR Texas program is a TEKS-aligned, blended language arts curriculum that places text at the center of every lesson. Designed specifically for Texas middle schools, this flexible program supports digital, print, and hybrid classrooms. "We are thrilled to partner with TEA to provide Texas teachers and students with the highest quality reading and language arts programs that align to TEKS standards," said Larry Berger, chief executive officer of Amplify. "Amplify's flexible core and supplemental materials will support Texas educators and students whether learning is happening at home, in school, or some of each." Odell Education's Texas High School Literacy Program , which covers 9-12 ELAR, is an innovative program created specifically for Texas high school students and educators. It is designed to support seamless learning in a variety of contexts. The program empowers teachers and students through dynamic activities centered on rich texts and topics as they develop TEKS-aligned literacy skills, habits, and knowledge. "We are thrilled to partner with Texas educators to develop an exciting new literacy program for the high school students in Texas," says Odell Education CEO Judson Odell. "Thanks to the tremendous commitment of the Texas Education Agency, Texas high schoolers will have a flexible program for this year and beyond that fosters the literacy they need to thrive wherever their path may lead them." Great Minds' K-5 PhD Science TEKS Edition is a phenomenon-based program in which teachers facilitate the learning, but students own it. In every module, students explore authentic phenomena to build an enduring understanding of core science concepts through hands-on investigations and evidence-based learning. And now it is being adapted to align with the TEKS and, in partnership with TEA through its Texas Home Learning initiative, will be available as an open education resource for all schools and districts in the state. "Science education should start early, and it should be comprehensive," says Pam Goodner, Great Minds Chief Academic Officer for Science. "Texas recognizes that students need coherent instruction that builds knowledge from lesson to lesson to develop deep scientific understanding. PhD Science TEKS Edition will deliver what the state is seeking to help students act as scientists to observe, model, investigate, and understand the world around them." THL 3.0 is a comprehensive initiative to support school systems, teachers, parents, and students during the public health crisis and beyond with high-quality instructional materials, technology solutions, and professional development resources. TEA previously announced that it will offer all Texas school systems a world-class Learning Management System (LMS) from PowerSchool's Schoology for two years at no cost. Nearly 400 Texas school systems have already signed up, with another 200 currently engaging with the Schoology team. For more information on Texas Home Learning 3.0, please click here . SOURCE Great Minds PBC Related Links www.greatminds.org The Human Rights Defender (Ombudsman) of Armenia, Arman Tatoyan, has reacted to the statement of Azerbaijani presidential aide Hikmet Hajiyev that the Armenian side allegedly fired a missile at civilian infrastructure in Mingachevir, but the missile did not explode, and Hajiyev had posted a photo on Twitter to substantiate the allegations. It can be seen from the picture that the metal object resembling an empty pipe was most likely carefully placed in a hole in the paved asphalt. Tatoyan noted as follows on Facebook: What an intelligent behavior of this Armenian missile. It penetrated into the Azerbaijani asphalt so gently. Such an obvious falsification, very hilarious:) P.S. One has to see the disaster and casualties, including killings caused by Azerbaijani attacks and cluster bombs in civilian settlements of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh) and Armenia. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan pays tribute to the founder of Jana Sangh Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay on his birth anniversary, at BJP state headquarters in Bhopal. PTI photo Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday left for Delhi to finalise candidates for the 28 assembly constituencies which are going to by-polls on November 3. Mr Chouhan was scheduled to meet Central BJP leaders to finalise the candidates for the November 3 assembly by-polls in the state which may prove crucial for survival of his government. BJP has earlier in principle decided to re-nominate the 25 ex-Congress MLAs who have resigned from the house and the grand old party leading to collapse of Kamal Nath government in March this year, from their respective assembly seats in the ensuing by-elections. However, the party was yet to finalise candidates for three other assembly constituencies, Joura, Agar and Byabra, leading to the delay in the release of the candidates list. By-elections in these 3 assembly seats were necessitated following the death of sitting MLAs. State election committee of the party has recommended 2 names each for the three assembly seats to the Central election committee of party for finalization of candidates for these constituencies, a senior BJP leader here said. Filing of nomination for the assembly by-elections would commence from October nine. Congress has already announced its candidates for 24 assembly seats. Similarly, BSP has come out with a list of its candidates for 18 seats. Both the parties are expected to declare candidates in the rest poll-bound assembly constituencies in a day or two. While BJP has strength of 107 in the 230-member MP assembly, Congress has 88 MLAs. Chinas Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) has, for the first time, commissioned new, modern barracks for soldiers and to station heavy artillery close to the disputed Sino-India border in the Ngari region of Tibet as part of its preparations for war and concealment, a state media report has said. The permanent barracks have been constructed in the backdrop of ongoing border tension, replacing older, temporary housing facilities for PLAs border troops in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). Its possibly the first confirmation of satellite imagery released earlier this year, which suggested massive construction activity near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ngari including for an aircraft base in Ngari prefecture. Though not confirming PLA deployment numbers, the report and the photos give an indication of the deployment size which is clearly large.The new facility is located at an altitude of nearly 15,000 feet and could be close to one of the primary battle fronts during the 1962 Sino-India war. The Ngari prefecture borders India, Nepal and Chinas Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), and is considered TARs most remote region; it is the prefecture with the lowest population density in China. Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar are located in the prefecture. Part of the Demchok area, a flashpoint in the Sino-India boundary dispute, is in the prefecture Also Read | Chinas PLA complicates troop disengagement over Ladakh. It has a condition The report by national broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) did not share details about how long it took to build the barracks or when construction started, but said several new construction techniques were used to build the facilities, indicating a short construction time. The PLA released multiple photos of the new facility, showing the sprawling complex including massive buildings and facilities for keeping artillery guns. While facilitating the daily life of officers and soldiers to the greatest extent, the new generation of barracks also highlights the concept of service and preparation for war, the report released on October 2 in Mandarin said. Giving details, the report said stairs and corridors in the dormitory area of officers and soldiers have been widened to facilitate the rapid assembly of personnel; the war preparation material warehouse and garages have been seamlessly connected to facilitate the rapid loading and dispatch of troops in emergency situations. The report added that the commissioning of the new generation of barracks will also help shorten the plateau adaptation-period needed by recruits and reduce the incidence of altitude sickness among guards and soldiers. Also Read: Post Ladakh, PLA no longer a bogey for Indian Army | Analysis in view of the high-cold and high-altitude environment of the plateau, the design and construction of the new generation of barracks focusses on heat preservation, energy saving and concealment. Diplomats and military commanders from the two countries have held several rounds of talks to defuse the tension at the boundary and disengage troops since the current standoff began in May. The latest virtual meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on border affairs, held last week, provided both sides an opportunity to review the situation along the LAC and to hold frank and detailed discussions on developments since the bodys last meeting on August 20, Indias external affairs ministry said in a statement. Both the Indian statement and a readout in Mandarin from Chinas foreign ministry said the two sides positively evaluated the outcome of the sixth military commanders meeting on September 21. Clarence Fanto can be reached at cfanto@yahoo.com, on Twitter @BE_cfanto or at 413-637-2551. The City of Spanish Fort plans to hold a ceremony Monday honoring four officers and a dispatcher involved in the arrest of a heavily armed man who fired shots outside a Bass Pro Shop on Sept. 5. In that incident, 38-year-old Robert Smith of Grove Hill was subdued and arrested after firing dozens of rounds into the exterior of the store using a rifle, pistol and shotgun. Officers reported that Smith was wearing body armor. He was subdued with use of a Taser. In a statement released Monday, Spanish Fort Police Chief John Barber said, In what could have been a tragic incident with many innocent people hurt, the courage and professionalism of these officers averted what could have been a deadly encounter. Their actions have truly brought credit upon themselves, the department, and the law enforcement profession as a whole. According to the same statement, the city of Spanish Fort will recognize the officers and dispatcher during Mondays City Council meeting and cordially invite everyone to attend. The meeting will be held at Spanish Fort City Hall, 7361 Spanish Fort Blvd., at 6 p.m. Jail records show that Smith remains in jail with bond set at $570,000. His motivations remain unexplained. Chief Barber previously said that he had no criminal history in Alabama and no known ties to Spanish Fort. A brother said he had no history of violence but that his mental state had deteriorated in the weeks before the incident. "To come to a conclusion like it did when our officers were able to use less than lethal force when we had a subject that expended dozens of rounds into the building using at least three different weapons according to the casings, is phenomenal,'' Barber previously told AL.com. At a time where law enforcement is being criticized for all their actions and different incidents nationwide, this is certainly a situation where they showed restraint and took him into custody and prevented what would have been a mass shooting situation. Australia is the worlds second-largest exporter of coal, which plays an outsized role in its economy and politics. But the country has also quietly become a renewable energy powerhouse. About 1 in 4 Australian homes have rooftop solar panels, a larger share than in any other major economy, and the rate of installations far outpaces the global average. The country is well ahead of Germany, Japan and California, which are widely considered leaders in clean energy. In California, which leads US states in the use of solar power, less than 10 per cent of utility customers have rooftop solar panels. Most Australians who have embraced solar do not appear to have done so for altruistic reasons like wanting to fight climate change. Many are responding to incentives offered by state governments in the absence of a coordinated federal approach, a sharp drop in the price of solar panels in recent years and an increase in electricity rates. Politically conservative homeowners have also embraced solar to become less reliant on the electricity grid in keeping with the high value many Australians place on rugged individualism. In two of the countrys most populous states Queensland, a conservative stronghold, and New South Wales, home to left-leaning Sydney as many as half of homes have solar panels. The future for New South Wales and indeed the country is one where our energy comes from sun, wind and pumped hydro, not just because its good for the environment but because its good for the economy, said Matt Kean, minister for energy and environment in New South Wales. Thats one of the reasons weve got the highest penetration of rooftop solar anywhere on the planet, he added. People are doing that because they want to save money. Australia has limited federal targets to curb carbon emissions, and its prime minister, Scott Morrison, has championed the coal industry, which last year exported more coal than every other country except Indonesia, according to the International Energy Agency. Last year, the government approved a major project to send coal to India. But many state governments have taken a very different approach. After the federal government failed to adopt a renewable energy policy in the early 2000s, Australian states began adopting aggressive climate policies and giving homeowners incentives to buy solar panels and, more recently, batteries to store power. Those incentives kick-started the solar boom, and rooftop solar regularly provides about 5 per cent of Australias electricity, compared with just under 1 per cent in the United States. Coal is still a key generator there, but there are times when rooftop solar is contributing over 6 per cent of generation, said Rishab Krishna Shrestha, a research analyst at Wood MacKenzie Power and Renewables. The uptake has been especially high in Queensland, which makes up a big chunk of the countrys northeast and includes Cairns and Brisbane. The state has hot, humid weather similar to Floridas and also calls itself the Sunshine State. Peter Row of Bundaberg, a city just over 200 miles north of Brisbane that had the most rooftop solar installations last year in Australia, bought a typical 6.57-kilowatt system for his home after he grew tired of his rising electricity bill. Before he installed the $3,000 system, Rows monthly bill usually came to about $190. Since then, the electric company has been crediting him an average of about $30 a month because he is generating more electricity than he is using. I hate the heat, so air conditioning is really important to me, said Row, 59, who is semiretired and runs a small business from home. He and his wife try to run their most energy-intensive appliances during the sunniest parts of the day. Normally, if you run air conditioning in summer, the bill is incredibly high, Row said. Row believes the climate is changing but, like many other conservatives, isnt sure how much of the change is caused by humans, he said. I dont think renewables are the total answer yet, he said. Another reason Australia has rapidly expanded rooftop solar is that its states have sought to streamline building codes and make it easier to obtain permits. In the United States, municipalities tend to control codes and permitting, and many have not eased the way for rooftop solar, making installations more expensive and time consuming. What can California do to get to 30 per cent penetration? said Bernadette Del Chiaro, executive director of the California Solar and Storage Association. Cut the red tape. Despite the growth of solar, Australias approach to the electric system has weaknesses, too, as customers face frequent blackouts. Experts blame an unreliable grid, strains on the system from record heat and damage to utility equipment from wildfires. The growth of rooftop solar itself has caused some problems. Traditionally, power plants supplied electricity and homes used it, making it easy for officials to manage the grid. Now many homeowners are both consumers and providers of electricity, depending on the time of the day. That has forced grid managers to line up power plants that can ramp up or down more quickly to balance supply and demand. One of the bigger challenges thats arising is that the electricity grid just wasnt designed and built for high levels of rooftop solar, said Kane Thornton, chief executive at the Clean Energy Council, the countrys renewable energy industry association. It was designed for coal-fired power stations. Were seeing many of the rules, and the grid itself, are needing to be reformed. More than half of the roughly two dozen coal-fired plants in operation are expected to be retired within 15 years, and it is not clear what will replace them. While environmentalists want more renewable energy, conservative lawmakers assert that the country needs to keep using coal. Weve got to be realistic when were making transitions, said Warren Entsch, a member of Parliament from Queensland in the governing Liberal Party, Australias equivalent of the Republican Party. Coal is going to be part of our economy for, I believe, a long time into the future. Entsch is a special envoy to the Great Barrier Reef, off Queensland. He only recently acknowledged that climate change was the primary threat to the reef. The recent rolling blackouts in California, the first since an energy crisis two decades ago, highlight the dangers posed by climate change and a rapid switch to renewable energy without careful planning. Hotter weather can increase demand for electricity while the supply from a grid that relies too much on solar panels and wind turbines can become erratic, producing less power on cloudy and breezeless days. As the price of renewable energy has plunged, coal-fired and natural gas power plants have increasingly struggled to compete, and some have shut down or sought bankruptcy protection. As Australia, California and other parts of the world seek to increase their use of renewable energy, they will have to invest a lot more in batteries or other forms of energy storage, experts said. In Australia, battery prices are expected to fall 10 per cent to 15 per cent this year, according to Warwick Johnston of SunWiz, a consulting firm. That is driving interest: There were more than 70,000 home battery systems in the country last year, and Johnston expects that 28,000 more will be installed this year. Eytan Lenko, executive chair of Beyond Zero Emissions, a climate research and advocacy organization, installed a 17-kilowatt solar system last year along with a battery at his home in Melbourne. Were easily generating way more than what were using, Lenko said, adding that the battery had helped keep the lights on during a storm in August that caused a citywide blackout. Climate change, he said, is going to create more of these storms. Still, batteries typically provide power for up to only five hours at a time. That has limited their use, especially by electric utilities. Kean, the New South Wales energy minister, said Australia had to make its electric system more reliable, reduce costs and address climate change with the help of solar, wind, batteries and other renewable technologies. This is the economically rational position to take, he said. Those people arguing for coal, gas and nuclear are actually arguing for more expensive, dirtier energy. The future is not those things. Motorists across South Africa are complaining about problems with the driving licence renewal system, with calls to stop fining motorists for the time being and extending the validity of driving licences. In a recent letter to MyBroadband, a Cape Town motorist said due to COVID-19 there were only four tellers at the civic centre licence department. The line was out the building and it hardly moved. I moved three spots in the line in an hour of standing there, he said. There is an online renewal system, but this system is also broken and is only available to people who still have a valid drivers licence. This complaint is not unique. Many people in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and other provinces have similar complaints. The online booking system is seriously flawed. There are never slots available. My drivers licence expires in October and there is no way I will be able to renew by then, one user said. We were turned away at Bedfordview by the security guard for not having booked online. The queues at Edenvale were unbelievable. Another motorist said they have been trying to get a slot for a month without any success. When a few slots finally open, he went through the process to get his OTP but then received a message that the slot is not available anymore. I cant believe this is acceptable. I feel like we should take a stand or do something to change this, he said. Apart from the broken online booking system and poor service delivery, there is another problem driving schools in cahoots with officials who hijack the system. The Citizen reported that availability for the online slots was being probed after driving schools grabbed most of the spots and left little to no slots for the public. Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) spokesperson Simon Zwane told the newspaper they were dealing with the problem of driving schools colluding with officials. Calls for changes to the system The Automobile Association (AA) and the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) have called for urgent changes to the drivers licence renewal process. The AA has called for an immediate moratorium on fining motorists without renewed driving licences and for steps to be taken to fix the current renewal processes. Its an absurd situation where motorists cannot renew their discs or cards and are then stopped and fined for not having done so, the AA said. The organisation said it has become critical that alternatives to the current renewals processes are implemented. Not only must third-party agents such as the AA be allowed to renew driving licence cards, but the current system needs a dramatic overhaul, and quickly, it said. OUTA, in turn, wants Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula to change the drivers licence validity period from five to 10 years. This should save the SA consumer and government time and money as well as improve the administration and manageability of the renewal process by the state, it said. It also asked for a more efficient online application process for drivers licence renewals which precedes the actual renewal. This, OUTA said, will allow for more effective service delivery and flow between the appointment, eye test, and licence delivery. It further supported the AAs call to make multiple methods for drivers licence renewal available through testing centres and reputable service providers. Long queues for driving licence renewals The photos below show the long queues at a licence renewal centres (see video here). Now read: Driving licence renewal problem in South Africa Additional reporting from Vivienne Clarke The former president of the Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP) and a member of NPHET, Dr Mary Favier has said that the absolute reality and inevitable truth of the current Covid-19 figures was that a lockdown would be necessary because of the vulnerability of the health care system. However, other public health experts have said a move to Level Five of the Government's Living with Covid plan would be an "extreme reaction". Something needs to be done to protect it, Dr Favier told RTE radios Morning Ireland. If the Covid-19 numbers continue at their current trajectory then there could be 1,500 cases per day by the beginning of November and hospitals would be at full occupancy, adding that the health system is already under strain with both Covid cases and non Covid cases, she said. Advertisement GPs are concerned at what this winter is going to look like. Its not just a fear, its a reality. Dr Favier said there was a concern that if there was a serious traffic accident or a cardiac incident that there would not be an ICU bed available as they would be occupied by Covid patients. In contrast, Professor Jack Lambert from the Mater, Rotunda and UCD school of Medicine thinks the sudden move could be over the top. "I think it's quite an extreme reaction and my questions is, back in February and March, it was probably necessary because we had huge numbers of people in the community without even knowing it, who had Covid, with very little testing done, but here we are, seven months later and what have we done to prepare for the next wave?" Polling data had shown that people understand the need for solidarity and further restrictions, while health care workers were concerned that there were not sufficient staff within the system. Prof Lambert added that the enforcement of preventative measures was very important and that people needed to be compliant with public health measures. Professor Anthony Staines from DCU says he does not think lockdown is the right way to go, but a lot of Europe is moving towards stricter measures as rates of the virus continue to spike around the continent. "There is a lockdown in Madrid, a lockdown in Paris, and as we speak, there is a serious proposal for a lockdown in Northern Ireland. "I think the right approach is to have a very carefully thought out, well explained plan that says how are we getting suppression and where do we go at the end of that." President Akufo-Addo has visited former President Jerry John Rawlings to commiserate with him on the death of his mother, Victoria Agbotui. Mr Akufo-Addo was at the former President's residence on Monday, October 5, 2020. Madam Agbotui passed away a few days ago aged 101. In a post on his official Facebook page, Mr Akufo-Addo wrote: The loss of a mother is always a special moment in the life of any person, as I can testify myself. He added I wish Madam Victoria Agbotui the very best of peace in the bosom of the Almighty until the Last Day of the Resurrection when we shall all meet again. Many low- and middle-income countries, such as Malawi , continue to experience high child mortality rates. Most of these deaths are caused by preventable and treatable diseases such as diarrhoea, malaria and pneumonia. But managing these conditions is a challenge in Malawi, where around 83% of the population lives in rural areas where access to appropriate health facilities is difficult. To identify sick children and ensure they get treatment close to home the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF introduced a community case management protocol in 2008. It's mostly managed by community health workers. In Malawi, a cadre of community health workers called health surveillance assistants are at the heart of service provision in hard-to-reach areas. Health surveillance assistants provide services in village clinics, mainly by assessing the signs and symptoms in acutely unwell children. This allows them to identify and manage conditions according to the community case management protocol. The protocol allows health surveillance assistants to give treatment to sick children. But when a child shows danger signs such as vomiting, not being able to breastfeed, or being unconscious or lethargic, they must be referred to hospital immediately. Health surveillance assistants , though, don't always follow all the steps in the protocol when assessing a child. They may be overburdened, or they may not know what to do. This could result in incorrect treatment. Several technological interventions were evaluated and later introduced to improve community case management. These included mobile health, or mHealth , which is the use of mobile phones and tablets to support healthcare delivery. In 2015 we started a project to explore the use of an mHealth application in community case management. We tested whether the mHealth intervention was more effective than doing the same procedure using paper based community case management. We found that with the use of mHealth applications, the consultation time was shorter. We also found that the treatment recommendations given with the guide of mHealth applications were correct and the doses were accurate. Hence the child benefits more from using mHealth application than paper based protocol. What we did The electronic community case management project was conducted in Nkhata Bay, Rumphi, and Mzimba North districts in northern Malawi. The project had three phases. In the first phase we conducted a situational analysis . We wanted to find out if it was feasible to use mobile phones for community case management. We also wanted to understand how the community would perceive a health surveillance assistant using a phone while assessing their children. We recruited 12 village clinics in Mzimba north. In each clinic we selected one health surveillance assistant to take part in the study. Participants were trained to use a smartphone. They were given smartphones with an electronic community case management app installed. Then they were advised to use the app together with the paper-based protocol when assessing and managing children. We found that health surveillance assistants were positive about using the electronic version of the protocol. They regarded the app as a good innovation as it reminded them of steps to follow when assessing children and helped ensure that the treatment recommendations were correct. Parents of sick children developed more confidence in the decisions made by the health surveillance assistants since the decisions were guided by a smartphone. The involvement of health surveillance assistants in the first phase helped to make improvements to the app to enhance its use in the latter phases. The second phase was the intervention phase . The aimed was to put the electronic intervention into practice. This was to assess whether electronic community case management would have any impact on referrals to higher level facilities, village clinic re-consultation and hospital admission rates. We recruited and trained 102 health surveillance assistants in Nkhata Bay and Rumphi districts. Some health surveillance assistants used the app along with paper-based assessments. Others used only the paper-based assessment. Before the clinical trial started, we held community sensitisation meetings with traditional leaders, government departments other than the health department and nongovernmental organisations. Studies show that a bottom-up approach in designing an intervention increases the chances that communities will accept it. A total of 6,965 children were recruited: 3,421 in the paper community case management group and 3,544 in the electronic management group. We found that more children assessed with the aid of the app were referred to higher level healthcare facilities. There were also more repeat consultations at the village clinic by parents within seven days of index visit in the children assessed with the paper based protocol as compared to those assessed using the mHealth app. This suggests that the intervention had a positive impact on children's healthcare services. This shows that the treatment given with the help of the mHealth application helped children and prevented repeat visits to the clinic. On the hospital admissions, we found that the number of children who were later admitted to higher level facilities was greater in the group receiving paper-based assessments. This suggests that children evaluated via the app were more likely to have received the correct treatment so that they didn't need a higher level of care. The final phase was an evaluation and assessment of the sustainability of the app. In this phase we aimed to find out whether there were differences in the quality and functionality of the two apps in use in northern Malawi (Mangologic and Supporting Life). We also assessed factors that might affect the sustainability of using apps in the country. We found that the apps provided different user interfaces but had very similar functionality. They led to similar diagnosis and treatment recommendations. But there were slight differences in usability such as ease and speed of navigation. These apps were designed and coded in a way that makes it possible to modify the algorithms if needed. But more stakeholders such as non-governmental organisations need to step in and lead the uptake of mHealth interventions such as these. Going forward Health surveillance assistants in Malawi adapted very well to the paper-based community case management guidelines and have played a part in their success since 2008. As smartphone technologies play an increasing role in people's lives, we believe that using apps in the management of childhood illnesses will help reduce child mortality rates in the country. We therefore recommend that the Ministry of Health in Malawi consider using a single version of the electronic case community case management app across the entire country, and build on the lessons learnt from the testing and evaluation described here. Griphin Baxter Chirambo receives funding from Malawi government through Mzuzu University where he works. This research was supported by the European Union's Seventh Framework Program for research, technological development and demonstration (grant agreement no 305292). The funder of this study had no role in the design of the study, analysis of the results, and preparation of the manuscript or decision to publish. Griphin Baxter Chirambo has no conflicts of interest to declare. Adamson S. Muula receives funding from the Malawi Government generally and specifically through funding to the Africa Center if Excellence in Public Health and Herbal Medicine (ACEPHEM. The ACEPHEM is funded through a credit facility from the World Bank. Bo Andersson, Ciara Heavin, John O'Donoghue, Matthew Thompson, and Yvonne O'Connor do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. By Griphin Baxter Chirambo, Lecturer, Mzuzu University And Adamson S. Muula, Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Malawi And Bo Andersson, Associate professor, Lund University And Ciara Heavin, Senior Lecturer, University College Cork And John O'Donoghue, Lecturer & Director, Imperial College London And Matthew Thompson, Professor of Global Health, University of Washington And Yvonne O'Connor, Lecturer / Senior Researcher , University College Cork Donald Trump's surprise trip to greet of supporters outside Walter Reed Medical Centre on Sunday sparked outrage, with claims the unannounced presidential motorcade was putting lives at risk and adding to public confusion about his health. Dr James P Phillips, a CNN media contributor and an attending physician at the Maryland hospital, attacked the president's political theatre as "insanity". "That presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of Covid-19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures," Dr Phillips said in a tweet. "The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play." Photos from the event Mr Trump wearing a cloth mask, while the driver and other passengers, thought to be Secret Service members, wore full personal protective equipment including gowns, more robust masks and goggles. Leaving the hospital may also have violated public coronavirus guidance for Maryland, which says people with Covid-19 should self-isolate to reduce the spread. Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary presidential 'drive-by' just now has to be quarantined for 14 days," Dr Phillips said. "They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity. Dr Phillips is a regular contributor for CNN, appearing as an expert on its broadcasts and writing opinion pieces for its website, including a column saying he will likely become infected with coronavirus but, as a physician, "it's just simple math that I have accepted." Mr Trump made what he called the surprise visit after sharing a video update of his condition, where he hinted he would be making the drive-by to thank the patriotic Americans that have been keeping a weekend vigil. "It's been a very interesting journey, I learned a lot about Covid, I learned it by really going to school, this is the real school, this isn't the let's-read-the-book school. And I get it and I understand it, and it's a very interesting thing and I'm going to be letting you know about it," Mr Trump said in the video. Donald Trump says he will visit supporters despite coronavirus infection White House Correspondents Association president, Zeke Miller, meanwhile, said the unannounced drive-by left the public in the dark about the presidents health. "It is outrageous for the president to have left the hospital, even briefly, amid a health crisis and without a protective pool present to ensure that the American people know where their president is and how he is doing," he said. Confusion over Mr Trumps true condition has swirled over the past two days thanks to contradictory statements given by his medical team. The doctors are now facing calls to be straightforward and transparent with Americans about their presidents health. Asked for more detail on the drive-by, White House spokesperson Judd Deere said: "President Trump took a short, last-minute motorcade ride to wave to his supporters outside and has now returned to the presidential suite inside Walter Reed." Delhi chief minister and AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, condemning the incident, said it indicated the 'defeat and disgrace' of the Uttar Pradesh government Hathras/Lucknow: Ink was thrown on Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh in Hathras on Monday when he was leading a party delegation in the village of the Dalit woman who recently died after being allegedly gangraped. The accused man was immediately held, the local police said, while AAP chief and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal slammed the Uttar Pradesh government over the attack on Singh. When Singh was about to speak to reporters, a man threw ink on his white kurta while shouting "PFI dalal wapas jao". The Popular Front of India (PFI), an alleged radical group, has been accused of funding some protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act that took place across the country earlier this year. The Uttar Pradesh Police had earlier sought a ban on the organisation. Singh sat in his car and left the spot immediately after the incident. Visuals of the occurrence soon surfaced on the electronic media. In Delhi, Kejriwal tweeted in Hindi: Sanjay ji, you have been speaking fearlessly against the injustice and atrocities of the UP government. They made 14 FIRs against you, sealed the office but did not dare to arrest you, so they got you attacked today. This shows the defeat and disgrace of the people sitting in the UP government. It means you're on the right track. The accused was held soon after the incident, the Hathras police said. AAP MP Sanjay Singh had come to meet the victim''s family in Bool Garhi village. Later during a press conference, a young man threw ink on him. The accused was immediately taken into custody and legal proceedings are underway, it said in a statement. Singh is among the several political leaders who have visited Hathras to meet the family members of the 19-year-old Dalit woman who died on 29 September after she was allegedly raped by four upper caste men. For months, Joseph R. Biden Jr. has gone to great lengths to model responsible behavior in the coronavirus era. He wears masks in public. He does not hold crowded rallies. When he gives speeches, reporters sit at a distance from one another, with white circles on the ground to mark their turf. These actions have so far helped keep Mr. Biden healthy and able to continue campaigning while President Trump, who mocked masks and held large events, is now hospitalized with Covid-19. But beyond the public examples of safety precautions, Mr. Bidens health protocols have ... Dr. Scott Gottlieb on Monday urged the White House to develop stronger health protocols after the Covid-19 infection of President Donald Trump. Trump, who announced his diagnosis early Friday, is now being treated for Covid-19 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. "I hope the whole White House takes a different approach. I don't think there were good precautions taken at the White House. They weren't modeling good precautions, but equally important, they weren't taking good precautions to protect the president, in my view," Gottlieb said on "Squawk Box." "They both need to model better precautions for the nation so that people see a better example being set by our leaders." Gottlieb, earlier on "Squawk Box," took issue with most of the prevention strategy relying on testing for the coronavirus. Many public health experts during the pandemic have emphasized that coronavirus testing is one component of a larger mitigation strategy. They have said other protocols such as wearing face coverings, maintaining social distance and good hygiene are critical to preventing transmission, too. Gottlieb, a former Food and Drug Administration commissioner under Trump, said that even the testing system in place at the White House had its shortcomings. The Trump administration had relied on a rapid turnaround test to screen staff and visitors. "If they were relying on testing alone to keep the virus out of the West Wing and out of the White House compound, they needed a zero-fail testing regime. They didn't have it," said Gottlieb, who led the FDA from May 2017 to April 2019. "It was told to people in the White House that there was problems with the way they were using testing as a tool to try and prevent virus from getting in the White House compound, and in and around the president, and they didn't really step that up," he added. Trump's handling of the pandemic has come under criticism for months. He rarely wears a face mask in public and has held campaign rallies with attendees, many maskless, crowded together. In August, Trump held his keynote Republican National Convention speech on the South Lawn of the White House, with more than 1,000 invited guests and without universal masking. The president also recently nominated Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court at a White House event; several people who were there have since tested positive for the coronavirus. Gottlieb said the White House needs to rethink its precautions as the pandemic persists. The physician has previously warned the nation may be entering its "most dangerous season" for Covid-19. "The president didn't need to get infected. I'm pretty certain the president didn't want to get infected. He was not taking reckless risks, not withstanding the things he said when he was out and not withstanding some people's perceptions," Gottlieb contended. "The president didn't want to get Covid, from everything I can glean, and thought he was being protected based the testing that was in place around him." In a statement to CNBC, White House spokesman Judd Deere said the White House's public health strategy is built on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations. "The President takes the health and safety of himself and everyone who works in support of him and the American people very seriously," Deere wrote in an email. "White House Operations collaborates with the Physician to the President and the White House Military Office to ensure all plans and procedures incorporate current CDC guidance and best practices for limiting COVID-19 exposure to the greatest extent possible both on complex and when the President is traveling." Mick Mulvaney, who had been the president's acting chief of staff from December 2018 until late March, said he believes Trump will not significantly alter his approach to campaigning or governing despite his illness. "You're never going to keep this president locked in his basement. That was never going to happen. Yes, you could have put him inside a bubble in the West Wing. Yes, you could have restricted him to where no one would actually come into contact with him," Mulvaney said on "Squawk Box." "He likes interacting with people, so I think what the staff was trying to do is balance the demands of health and the demands of the president's personality." CNBC's Will Feuer contributed to this report. Mysuru, Oct 5 : Expressing severe displeasure over the Covid-19 pandemic situation in Mysuru, Karnataka Medical Education Minister K. Sudhakar on Monday asserted that he was not at all impressed with the district's performance in tackling the pandemic. Speaking to reporters after a high-level Dasara preparation meeting with elected representatives here, Sudhakar said, "In the last week alone Mysuru has registered a mortality rate of 3.9 per cent which is higher than the global average. 10 per cent infections are registered in the district, tests are not meeting the target which is at 65 per cent, which is not at all satisfactory." The minister pointed out that the state is now recording 1.9 per cent mortality whereas the national mortality rate is at 1.6 per cent and 3.5 per cent at global level. Lamenting that Mysuru which was a model for the state where no casualties were reported due to Covid-19 despite there being a number of cases, he observed that now it was slightly out of control and that's why he was here to review the situation and give all instructions to control it. "Newly-appointed DC has asked me for two weeks' time to show some results. Now there is no shortage of ventilators in the state, but we need oxygen beds," he said and added quickly that Karnataka was preparing 33,000 beds across the state. He claimed that he had directed the officials to conduct Covid tests on all senior citizens in Mysuru district. "It is appalling that there were 11 deaths in a single home. We should rectify such mistakes. Telemedicine should be properly utilised. Tracing of infected persons is not happening properly. All this must be corrected. The DC has been instructed to fill in the vacancies. Death audit is to be completed quickly," he said. He asserted that Covid guidelines must be strictly enforced as it is a long struggle and all must work carefully till we get a vaccine. Further suggesting measures, he added that a booth-level task force committee should be formed to ensure people's participation. "We must find the reasons for upsurge in the infections in the district. I also know that the treatment rendered for home-isolated people is not recorded. Accurate information should be recorded," he said. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Victoria has recorded 15 new coronavirus cases and one more death, reducing hopes that lockdown measures will ease further on October 19. The figures in the 24 hours up to Tuesday's announcement brought Victoria's 14-day rolling average to 10.9 and the number of mystery cases, those with no known source, to 13 in the past two weeks. The Andrews government had set an ambitious target of a rolling two-week average of just five cases if lockdown was to be eased by October 19. If not, the city will stay with its current restrictions - meaning bars, restaurants and other non-essential businesses still cannot fully open - and residents will still only be able to travel 5km from home. Two masked women walk along St Kilda beach in Melbourne on Saturday. Victoria recorded 15 new coronavirus cases and one more death on Tuesday, plunging hopes that lockdown will ease further on October 19 Regional Victoria already moved from the second to the third step of removing restrictions on September 15 but Melbourne can only do so if the targets are met. Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton refused to say whether he believes Melburnians will be able to meet the ambitious targets by October 19. 'I never know what tomorrow will bring,' he said on Tuesday. 'We all have to be prepared for whatever may come. And it's not easy. No question. As I say, I watch these numbers as closely as anyone in the state. 'And we all want to get to a point where we're satisfied that we know we'll go to the next step, but absolutely no-one wants us to fail in this space. Me more than anyone. 'So we just have to bear that in mind, and we have to take that next step at an appropriate time.' Victoria Police patrolled St Kilda Beach on the weekend. For Melbourne to come out of lockdown, both the two-week rolling average and number of mystery cases need to drop below five on October 19 Melbourne moved to the second step of easing restrictions on September 28. According to Victorias road map for reopening, there needs to be at least three weeks between different stages. This means the earliest Melbourne can move to the third step is October 19 - but only if the below-five targets are met. Whether Victoria will make an exception to the targets after three months of lockdown remains to be seen. Women at St Kilda Beach on Saturday. The earliest Melbourne can move to stage three is October 19 - but only if the below-five targets are met Victoria recorded nine new coronavirus infections and no deaths on Monday. Premier Daniel Andrews pleaded for residents to 'stay the course' and continue to follow the rules, after large groups at beaches and parks flouted coronavirus restrictions in recent days. 'We are so, so close. Let's not any of us do anything that might undermine the very positive numbers,' he told reporters on Sunday 'Once we get them low, we can keep them low and we can open up again. 'If we don't do anything silly or anything selfish right now.' Police patrolled St Kilda Beach after large groups gathered on Friday, raising concerns that such behaviour could trigger another outbreak. Premier Daniel Andrews pleaded for residents to 'stay the course' by continuing to follow the rules after large groups at beaches and parks flouted coronavirus restrictions in recent days More people are testing positive for the coronavirus and the percentage of positive cases is also on the rise in Pennsylvania, Gov. Tom Wolfs office said Monday. Statewide, the percentage of positive tests rose to 3.7% over the past week, up from 3.2% during the previous 7-day period. In the previous week, the positive rate fell from 3.7% to 3.2%. The governors office also listed 11 counties to watch for COVID-19 cases. Each week, Wolfs office publishes a list of counties that bear monitoring because at least 5% of those tested were positive for the coronavirus over a 7-day period. Last week, the governors office named only 7 counties. These are the counties that bear watching, according to state officials: Centre (9.4%), Northumberland (9.3%), Snyder (7.8%), Lebanon (6.6%), Montour (6.6%), Perry (6.5%), Schuylkill (6.5%), Wayne (6.1%), Lackawanna (6.0%), Indiana (5.9%), and Lawrence (5.4%). Our percent positivity and incidence rate for the commonwealth both increased this week, which serves as a reminder the virus still remains a threat in our communities, Wolf said in a statement. Between Sept. 26-Oct. 1, the state recorded 6,164 new coronavirus cases, an increase of nearly 1,100 cases over the previous week. Over the previous seven-day period, the state recorded 5,070 new COVID-19 cases. The health department continues to be concerned about the uptick in cases among younger adults, particularly those between the ages of 19 and 24. In southeastern Pennsylvania, 28% of the new cases in September occurred in that age group, according to the health department. (In the southcentral region, that figure was 16%, the lowest in the state.) Wolf continued to stress the importance of wearing face coverings and practicing social distancing. Levels of transmission Each week, the state updates its list gauging the level of coronavirus transmission in each county. The Wolf administration has encouraged schools to use the level of transmission as a benchmark on holding in-person classes or a mix of face-to-face instruction and remote learning. Its also designed to guide their response plans if students or staff are infected. Depending on the risk assessment, school districts are advised to close buildings for longer periods if students or staff test positive. Four counties are listed as having a substantial level of transmission of the coronavirus: Centre, Montour, Northumberland and Snyder. This week, Montour and Snyder joined the list of counties with a substantial level of transmission. Most counties - 46 counties - are showing a moderate level of transmission, while 17 counties were in the low level of transmission. For those counties with a moderate level of transmission, the state has recommended schools employ a hybrid approach, mixing in-person classes with remote instruction. Moderate: Adams, Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Berks, Blair, Bradford, Bucks, Butler, Cambria, Carbon, Chester, Clearfield, Columbia, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Erie, Fayette, Franklin, Huntingdon, Indiana, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lawrence, Lebanon, Lehigh, Luzerne, Lycoming, Mercer, Mifflin, Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, Perry, Philadelphia, Pike, Schuylkill, Somerset, Tioga, Union, Washington, Wayne, Westmoreland and York. Low: Cameron, Clarion, Clinton, Crawford, Elk, Forest, Fulton, Greene, Jefferson, Juniata, McKean, Potter, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Venango, Warren and Wyoming. Travel restrictions The Wolf administration added four states to its list of travel restrictions: Minnesota, Montana, Nevada and Wyoming. Residents visiting those states are asked to quarantine for 14 days after they return to Pennsylvania. Georgia has been removed from the list of travel restrictions, Wolfs office said. More than 160,000 Pennsylvania residents have contracted the virus and more than 8,200 have died. About 600 coronavirus patients are being treated in hospitals, according to the health departments online dashboard. At the peak of the virus in the spring, about 2,800 patients were hospitalized. Statewide, 82% of those who have been infected have recovered, according to the health department. The state considers patients to have fully recovered when they are 30 days past the point of infection or the onset of symptoms. More from PennLive Debate emerges over $500M education bill; some fear it may lead to full-fledged school vouchers in Pa. Trump tweets that hes leaving hospital Monday Sen. Pat Toomey confirms he wont seek reelection or run for Pa. governor White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany has tested positive for the coronavirus, she announced Monday. After testing negative consistently, including every day since Thursday, I tested positive for Covid-19 on Monday morning while experiencing no symptoms, she said in a statement. No reporters, producers or members of the press are listed as close contacts by the White House Medical Unit. McEnany also said she "definitively had no knowledge of Hope Hicks' diagnosis prior to holding a White House press briefing on Thursday. Hicks, a top aide to President Donald Trump, tested positive on Thursday. Trump said early Friday morning that he and first lady Melania Trump tested positive for Covid-19. The president is currently at Walter Reed military hospital receiving treatment. Others who have tested positive for coronavirus in recent days include Trump advisor Kellyanne Conway, Trump campaign manager Bill Stepien, three Republican senators Thom Tillis of North Carolina, Mike Lee of Utah and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who was part of Trumps presidential debate prep team. Trump, Hicks, McEnany, Tillis, Lee, Conway and Christie all attended the White House ceremony for Trumps Supreme Court Justice nominee Amy Coney Barrett just over a week ago and did not wear masks or practice social distancing. McEnany said she will begin the quarantine process due to testing positive and would continue working on behalf of the American People remotely. Its unclear how many media members may have been exposed. McEnany briefed reporters without a mask on Thursday and Sunday. WH Press Sec Kayleigh McEnany says she's tested positive for COVID. Here she is briefing reporters without a mask this weekend. pic.twitter.com/xdMNvamIvW The Recount (@therecount) October 5, 2020 I felt safer reporting in North Korea than I currently do reporting at The White House. This is just crazy, CBS News' White House correspondent tweeted Monday shortly after McEnanys announcement. McEnany, 32, a former spokeswoman for Trumps campaign and a vocal defender on television, replaced Stephanie Grisham as White House press secretary in April. Others who held the role under Trump include Sean Spicer and Sarah Huckabee Sanders. Queensland Deal Secures Future of Virgin Australia Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will formalise an investment deal between Virgin Australia and the state on Monday. The airline went into voluntary administration amid the CCP virus pandemic before emerging under the ownership of U.S. investment firm Bain Capital. The premier said the deal was absolutely important for Queensland. Its regional jobs, its backing Virgin, its backing another airline that supports regional Queensland, the premier told reporters on Monday. Though sparse on the details, Palaszczuk confirmed the deal guarantees the airlines headquarters will remain in Queensland. We want to make sure as many jobs as possible stay in Queensland, she said. Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, March 25, 2020. (Jono Searle/Getty Images) Cameron Dick, the states treasurer, said state-owned Queensland Investment Corporation would sign an agreement with Virgins new owners Bain Capital on Monday to finalise our commitment to securing Virgin in Queensland. It will be a 10-year agreement, and that will secure the headquarters and as many jobs as we can in Queensland, he said. He said the deal to support a second national airline would also ensure competition in Queensland and keep the air fair. The treasurer said the deal would comprise an equity stake at 10 percent of the $200 million in taxpayer funds, a loan, and other financial incentives. I can confirm that the return to the taxpayer on that investment will be about 7 percent over the duration of that agreement, he said. With the state elections coming up on Oct. 30, both the premier and treasurer took the opportunity to point out that the federal government did not support propping up the airline. The Epoch Times reached out to Virgin Australia for a comment but did not immediately receive a response. Tiger Air and Virgin sit idle on the tarmac at Melbournes Tullamarine Airport on April 12, 2020. (William West/AFP via Getty Images) The debt-laden airline cut 8,000 staff in March and then moved into voluntary administration after failing to secure a federal government bailout when strict travel bans were implemented to control the spread of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, also known as novel coronavirus. When the turbulence first hit the airline, unions and the Labor Party had urged the federal government to buy a stake in the airline to prop it up. The federal government refused, preferring the airline to find a commercial solution to its problems. It was estimated in April by Deloitte that Virgin owed nearly $7 billion to more than 12,000 creditors. Before its restructure and recapitalisation, the airline was 90 percent foreign-owned by Singapore Airlines, Etihad Airways, and Chinese state-owned conglomerates HNA Group and Hanshan, while Richard Bransons Virgin Group owned 10 percent. Under Bain Capital, the airline has cut 3,000 jobs as it refocusses on the domestic market. Virgin will try to retain at least 6,000 staff and hopes to expand up to 8,000 when the aviation market fully recovers. Read More Virgin Australia to Cut 3000 Jobs, Refocus on Domestic Market Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (Reuters) Brussels, Belgium Mon, October 5, 2020 15:10 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c492bfb9 2 World COVID-19,EU,Ursula-von-der-Leyen,self-isolation,Europe Free European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on Monday she would self-isolate until Tuesday after attending a meeting with someone who tested positive. "I've been informed that I participated in a meeting last Tuesday attended by a person who yesterday tested positive for COVID-19," von der Leyen said on Twitter. "In accordance with regulations in force, I'm therefore self-isolating until tomorrow morning. I've tested negative on Thursday and am tested again today." Meanwhile, more than 35.11 million people have been reported to be infected by the novel coronavirus globally and 1,035,247 have died, according to a Reuters tally on Monday. Infections have been reported in more than 210 countries and territories since the first cases were identified in China in December 2019. Family members of the 19-year-old Dalit woman who died in a New Delhi hospital on September 29 after she was allegedly gang-raped in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras and left partially paralysed said they were against a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe ordered by the Yogi Adityanath government and instead sought a Supreme Court-monitored inquiry. We do not require a CBI probe... we want an investigation to be held under a retired Supreme Court judge, said the brother of the woman. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the state government, meanwhile, continued its probe and recorded statements by family members of the woman, who was allegedly raped and left partially paralysed by four dominant-caste members on September 14 when she had gone to the fields to collect cattle fodder. We are open to anyone who wants to present himself before SIT and get his or her statement (recorded), said senior Indian Police Service officer Bhagwan Swaroop, who heads the three-member team. Scores of people held a meeting Sunday outside the house of a former BJP MLA in Hathras where they defended the accused in the alleged gangrape of a Dalit woman who later died, and demanded registration of an FIR against her family members. Heavy police force was deployed in the vicinity of the residence of former BJP MLA Rajvir Singh Pehalvan, located around 8-9 kilometres from the victims village. One of the organisers of the meeting and Pehalvans son Manveer Singh denied that the gathering comprised members from the upper castes and said they were from different sections of society. We welcome the CBI inquiry ordered by the Uttar Pradesh chief minister. We have faith in the investigation, Singh said, and claimed that the victims family members were changing their stand. The entire scenario has been created to blame the government. The accused persons are in favour of any type of inquiry. But the victims are changing their stand every now and then. They do not want a narco test or a CBI probe. Now they want other kinds of inquiries, he claimed. On September 22, the victim of the gang rape who died in New Delhis Safdarjung Hospital where she had been shifted after her condition failed to improve in an Aligarh hospital where she was initially treated recorded had her statement, claiming she had been raped and naming the four accused. Her mothers statement echoed the claim. On Sunday, Dalit leader and Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad visited the family of the Hathras woman and demanded that a high-level security cover be provided to her relatives I demand Y security for the family or Ill take them to my house, they arent safe here. We want an inquiry to be done under the supervision of a retired Supreme Court judge, he said. Azads demand came a day after Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi visited the victims family and said the state government should take responsibility for the familys safety. If Y Plus category security cover can be provided to actor Kangana Ranaut, then why can it not be provided to the family of the victim, Azad said, adding that if his demand was not met, he will organise a gherao of the state assembly. Amid criticism of the government and the polices handling of the case, CM Adityanath on Sunday asked officials to handle cases related to women, girls, Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) with sensitivity. The CM said this to police and administrative officers during a coronavirus disease (Covid-19) review meeting. The most complicated of problems could be solved through dialogue, he said. Attempts must be made to sort out various problems through dialogue with the affected people. The police should act promptly and deal with sensitivity in cases related to women, girls, SCs and STs, he said. On Saturday, Adityanath had said his government was committed to ensuring justice to each and every victim. He said that efficient and sensitive policing was needed to strengthen the foundation of good governance, curb crime and maintain law and order in the countrys most populous state. The CM had also sent senior officials including additional chief secretary (home) Awanish Awasthi and director general of police HC Awasthy to the village on Saturday to meet the womans family. Awasthi said any group with no more than five people was allowed to meet the victims family, a remark that came after journalists and politicians were previously turned away from the village. Other accusations of missteps include allegations that the womans body was cremated by the police in the early hours of Wednesday without the familys consent, triggering demonstrations across the country. Chaotic scenes were witnessed on Sunday in Boolgarhi village of Hathras district when a Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD)delegation was about to enter the village and a Samajwadi Party (SP) team was leaving. Five SP leaders had gone inside the village. Anxious SP workers soon went out of control and jumped the barricades when RLD vice president Jayant Chaudhary and his supporters arrived at the spot When some unidentified people started throwing stones, the police charged the crowd with batons while Chaudhary was interacting with a reporter. RLD workers rushed to rescue Chaudhary. The RLD leader downplayed the incident, but criticised the police for the lathi-charge on his delegation. This lathi-charge on Jayant Chaudhary reflects the jungle raj in Uttar Pradesh. He had gone to condole the death of the Hathras girl and was targeted in a planned manner, said Kaptan Singh Chahar, a former spokesperson of RLD. Some RLD workers, including Pradeep Chaudhary, sustained major injuries, Chahar said. Sub-district magistrate Prem Meena denied a planned lathi-charge, and said that the police had resorted to a baton-charge to bring the situation under control after SP and RLD workers threw stones at the police. Haryana government has no problem if Rahul Gandhi enters the state with a few people for his tractor rallies on Tuesday and Wednesday, but he will not be allowed to bring a big crowd to 'disturb' the atmosphere, State Home Minister Anil Vij has said. IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh and other leaders during a tractor rally, Kheti Bachao Yatra, in protest against the new farm bills 2020, in Punjab's Moga district, on Sunday. Photograph: PTI Photo Gandhi, who is holding tractor rallies in Punjab against the newly enacted farm laws, is set to reach Pehowa town in Kurukshetra district of Haryana with his supporters on Tuesday and address a gathering. He will also address public gatherings in Karnal, Congress leaders said. "If he wants to come alone or with just a few people, there is no problem. He can come a 100 times, we have no objection. "But if he comes with a big crowd from Punjab to disturb Haryana's atmosphere, then we will not permit. We are not going to allow that," Vij told PTI on Monday. "This issue concerns our law and order. Last month, two Congress-sponsored rallies were also stopped by us from entering our state. Congress is in power in Punjab and they want to use state machinery to spoil Haryana's peaceful atmosphere, which we will not allow, he added. He alleged that Congress is trying its best to instigate the farmers of Haryana but the state government will not allow them to 'succeed in their designs'. "Under no circumstances will we allow Congress's evil designs to spoil peace and tranquillity in Haryana, we won't permit (it) at any cost," he said. Vij, who is also the health minister of Haryana, had said on October 1 too that Gandhi's tractor rally won't be allowed to enter the state, prompting Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh to ask him if a 'jungle raj' was prevailing there. During his two-day visit to Haryana, Gandhi, according to party leaders, is scheduled to address a farmers' gathering in Pehowa. After a night halt in Kurukshetra, he will visit Pipli on Wednesday morning, where he will meet the farmers who were allegedly lathi-charged during a protest against the three pieces of farm legislation on September 10. The former Congress president will then proceed to Nilokheri and Karnal before returning to Delhi. Vij, who has been vocal against the rule of Nehru-Gandhi family, said no permission will be given to gather huge crowds at one place inside Haryana. "I am bound by law, how can I permit huge crowds," Vij said. On Amarinder Singh's 'jungle raj' comment, Vij said, 'actually, it is Punjab where there is no law and order'. "They talk about farmers, but they burn the tools they worship. First they (youth Congress workers) set fire to a tractor on Ambala border, later a tractor was set on fire by them in Delhi." "They are not concerned with farmers, they are only doing politics in their name. Rahul Gandhi, Amarinder Singh and (Punjab Congress chief) Sunil Jakhar ride a modified tractor during their tractor rally in Punjab, even during their so-called protest they do not want to part with luxury. They should see how hard a farmer toils in his fields," he said. Vij said the Congress was misleading farmers on farm laws, which are going to bring 'a big change for the better in the lives of peasants'. He also accused the Congress of politicising the Hathras gang-rape incident and while referring to alleged rape of two minor sisters in Baran district of Rajasthan, questioned why Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra did not visit Baran. A Statement By The Prominent Civil Rights Advocacy Group; Human Rights Writers Association Of Nigeria (HURIWA) On The Kano State Hisbah Police, How It Offends The Constitution Of The Federal Republic Of Nigeria And Calling For An End To The Talibanization Of Kano State While Accusing The Governor; Abdullahi Umar Ganduje Of Carrying Out The Blueprints Of The Organization Of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) THE ISSUE: Clearly, Section 214(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) makes policing and security in Nigeria, the exclusive preserve of the Federal Government. It provides thus: There shall be a police force for Nigeria, which shall be known as the Nigeria Police Force, and subject to the provisions of this section, no other police force shall be established for the Federation or any part thereof. Continuing, subsection 2 (a), (b) and (c) of the same section provides that: Subject to the provisions of this Constitution: (a) The Nigeria Police Force shall be organized and administered in accordance with such provisions as may be prescribed by an Act of the National Assembly; (b) The members of the Nigeria Police Force shall have such powers and duties as may be conferred upon them by law; (c) The National Assembly may make provisions for branches of the Nigeria Police Force forming part of the armed forces of the Federation or for the protection of harbours, waterways, railways and air fields. Explicitly, Section 4(2) of the Constitution empowers the National Assembly to make laws with regards to Exclusive Legislative List thus: The National Assembly shall have power to make laws for the peace, order and good government of the Federation or any part thereof with respect to any matter included in the Exclusive Legislative List set out in Part 1 of the Second Schedule to this Constitution. While Item 45 of the Exclusive Legislative List in Part 1 of the Second Schedule to the Constitution specifies Police and other government security services established by law, item 68 of the List includes Any matter incidental or supplementary to any matter mentioned elsewhere in this list. Consequently, the Police Act, among other laws was passed in recognition of the above wherein section 4 of the Act stipulates that: The Police shall be employed for the prevention and detection of crime, apprehension of offenders, the preservation of law and order, the protection of life and property and the due enforcement of all laws and regulation with which they are charged and shall perform such military duties within or outside Nigeria as may be required of them by, or under the authority of this or any other Act. By implication of the forgoing provisions, it is main duty of the National Assembly that has powers to make law as regards Policing and Security services in Nigeria. The State House of Assembly can as well make laws for the good governance of their states but certainly not to upgrade one RELIGION AS A STATE RELIGION IN FLAGRANT DISREGARD FOR THE UNAMBIGUOUS PROVISIOBS OF THE CONSTITUTION OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA ESPECIALLY SECTION 10 AND A PLETHORA OF OTHER FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS PROVISIONS WHICH RECOGNISES THE FREEDOM OF RELIGION AND THE FREEDOM OF THE CITIZENS TO CHANGE TGEIR RELIGIONS IF THEY SO WISH. However, contrary to these unambiguous provisions of the Constitution, in most States of northern Nigeria, there exists one form of RELIGIOUS security apparatus or the other under different names with uniformity of functions and operations of Hisbah. This is totally unacceptable. It's distinct from the formation of SECULAR VIGILANTES SUCHBAS AMOTEKUN WHICH IS NOT IN VIOLATION OF THE CONSTITUTION BECAUSE SUCH VIGILANTES ARE TO INSTIL A SENSE OF SECURITY AND STABILITY TO THOSE BUT DO NOT OPERATE AS RELIGIOUS POLICE LIKE THE ILLEGAL ISLAMIC POLICE IN KANO AMONGST OTHER FAR NORTHERN STATES. Hisbah Police in kano State backed by Kano State Hisbah Corps Law of 2003, which functions principally to enforce Islamic sharia by enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong on every Muslim, is reasoned as not an establishment of AN Act of the National Assembly as provided for by our constitution. WHY THE HISBAH POLICE OFFENDS OUR CONSTITUTION The Hisbah Police in Kano, which is backed by Kano State Hisbah Corps Law of 2003 and passed by the Kano the Kano State House of Assembly, contravenes the provisions of the Constitution of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) regulating policing and other security agencies as stated earlier. Hence there is the problem of legality. Though established by law, but passage of such laws on matters not within the legislative competence of the State Houses of Assembly makes the laws and by extension the outfits or organizations which they establish, illegal from the beginning. INFACT EVEN THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY CAN NOT CREATE RELIGIOUS POLICE UNDER ANY GUISE BECAUSE NIGERIA IS LEGALLY A SECULAR AND/OR A MULTI RELIGIOUS ENTITY. Also, there is the problem of mode of operation, which violates rights enshrined in the Constitution. According to the law setting them up, the Kano State Hisbah Police are not empowered to effect arrest, but reports have it that they often effect arrest. These they even sometimes do in the crudest fashion including disruption of social and economic activities. More worrisome is they often invade peoples privacies or premises without warrant or legal authority. They also carry out raids of vessels or vehicles or premises believed to be harbours of or used in delivery of alcohol, seize and destroy the products. Again these states that set up HISBAH ISLAMIC POLICE DO PARTAKE IN THE SHARING OF THE FEDERALLY GENERATED TAXES INCLUDING TAXES GENERATED BY THE FEDERAL INLAND REVENUE SERVICES FROM BREWERIES OPERATING IN OTHER PARTS OF NIGERIA. Again, despite the argument that the Hisbah Police do not bear arms, they have in actual fact been found with arms and have thereby become a threat to lives in some occasions especially to the non-indigenous residents of or visitors to the applicable communities and even to the natives of such states who are not Moslems. Furthermore, as much as it could be argued that the Kano State Hisbah Police is established in furtherance of peace and order, it is no doubt specifically to ensure compliance with Islamic injunction which is tantamount to enforcement of the religious standards. This religious inclination and linking in a mixed and plural civil society with the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion as guaranteed by the Constitution is a troubling characteristic. Section 10 of the Constitution prohibits the Government of the Federation or of a State from adopting any religion as State religion. Even though the Hisbah Police is not out rightly stated to be adoption of State religion, but since a State cannot adopt a religion as a State religion, it also cannot establish an outfit which primary function is the enforcement of religious standard at a governmental level. OUR POSITION AND DEMANDS The sections of the Constitution regulating policing and security services are clear and unambigious and the first rule of interpretation being the literal rule has to be applied to them. We have already established from such provisions that the National Assembly has powers to make law as regards Policing and security services in Nigeria and the STATE HOUSES OF ASSEMBLY CAN MAKE LAW FOR THE GOOD GOVERNANCE OF THEIR STATES BUT ARE NOT AUTHORISED TO CREATE RELIGIOUS POLICE. Therefore, Hisbah Police not being an establishment of an Act of the National Assembly and by virtue of its manner of operation in violation of legal rights guaranteed by the Constitution as well as enforcing a religious standard as an agent of the States authorizing it is an illegal outfit. So, we are by this statement urging the Nigerian government to disband the illegal HISBAH POLICE with immediate effect. Relatedly, HURIWA is perturbed on how Kano state under the incumbent Governor Abdullahi Ganduje is becoming a Taliban State, with sentences that offend constitutional freedoms. The sentencing to death by hanging of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu on August 10, 2020 found guilty of blasphemy against the Holy Prophet Muhammad by the Upper Sharia Court, and others are testaments of how Kano State has recently turned into a Taliban State. There seems to be no disparity between what Gov. Ganduje is doing in Kano State and what Boko Haram Terrrorists have been preaching. It is no news that Boko Haram, which was founded upon the principles of Salafism advocates strict adherence to Sharia and subsequently developed into a Jihadist group in 2009. As a foremost civil rights advocacy group, passionate about advancing just and equitable development in our country, we are calling for an end to the TALIBANIZATION OF KANO STATE. It is obvious that the governor is carrying out the blueprints of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and this does bot augur well for the well being of Nigeria as a constitutional democracy. COMRADE EMMANUEL ONWUBIKO: NATIONAL COORDINATOR. MISS. Zainab Yusuf: Director, National Media Affairs. HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA). October 5th 2020. SASKATOON, SK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - International Road Dynamics Inc. ("IRD" or the "Company"), a Quarterhill Inc. ("Quarterhill") company (TSX: QTRH) (OTCQX: QTRHF), announces that it has been awarded a contract for "Weigh-In-Motion (WIM) Systems Installation, Maintenance, and Data Services" with the United States (U.S.) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Office of Infrastructure Research and Development, which is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The contract is a task-order based, indefinite-delivery-indefinite-quantity, agreement covering a 66-month period and is valued at U.S. $1.2 million. Under this contract, IRD will be issued task orders to provide installation, maintenance, repairs, and verification that data collected from the WIM systems at Long-Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) test sites across the United States and Canada meet performance specifications for Type I WIM systems established by American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard E1318-09. The FHWA funds and manages the LTPP program with the goal of investigating specific pavement-related details that are critical to pavement performance. LTPP program studies are performed at more than 2,500 test sections on highways across North America. A key factor in understanding pavement performance is having accurate and reliable monitoring traffic data, specifically classification and weight data. The weigh-in-motion (WIM) equipment used to collect this data will be provided and installed by IRD and evaluated and maintained routinely. IRD will also provide the in-depth knowledge and expertise of the WIM equipment and the necessary industry technical resources that are not readily available in-house at FHWA. Mr. Rish Malhotra, IRD President and CEO, noted "IRD is proud to continue to supply, install and provide maintenance support for this important project operated by FHWA. IRD's WIM technology has been instrumental in ensuring the success of the LTPP program since 2004 and is the basis on which we have built a long and trusted relationship with the U.S. Department of Transportation." About IRD IRD is a dynamic technology company engaged in developing key components and advanced systems for the next generation of transportation networks. Together with subsidiaries PAT Traffic and ICOMS Detections, IRD supplies Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to private corporations, transportation agencies and highway authorities around the world. IRD's systems make highways safer, greener and more efficient. Known globally as a trusted partner providing sales, service and installation support on major ITS projects for over 40 years, IRD contributes to creating smarter cities by empowering engineering and urban planning professionals to access reliable traffic data. For more information: www.irdinc.com. About Quarterhill Quarterhill is a growth-oriented company in the Intellectual Property and Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) industries. Our goal is to pursue an investment strategy that capitalizes on attractive market trends in both ITS and its adjacent markets. Quarterhill is listed on the TSX under the symbol QTRH and on the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol QTRHF. For more information: www.quarterhill.com Forward-Looking Information This news release contains forward-looking statements regarding IRD, Quarterhill and their businesses. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by IRD and/or Quarterhill in light of their experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and the expected effects of new business strategies, as well as other factors that IRD and/or Quarterhill believe are appropriate in the circumstances. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed herein may not occur and could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting IRD and/or Quarterhill, including: potential risks and uncertainties relating to the ultimate geographic spread of the novel coronavirus ("COVID-19"); the severity of the disease; the duration of the COVID-19 outbreak; actions that may be taken by governmental authorities to contain the COVID-19 outbreak or to treat its impact; the potential negative impacts of COVID-19 on the global economy and financial markets and any resulting impact on IRD and/or Quarterhill and/or their businesses. Other factors include, without limitation, the risks described in Quarterhill's February 27, 2020 annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2019 (the "AIF"). Copies of the AIF may be obtained at www.sedar.com. IRD and Quarterhill recommend that readers review and consider all of these risk factors and notes that readers should not place undue reliance on any of IRD's forward-looking statements. IRD has no intention, and undertakes no 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. SOURCE International Road Dynamics Related Links www.quarterhill.com When we cancelled our trip to Britain this summer, my son took it on the chin. He pined for his British grandma, but travelling to the country with the highest coronavirus death rate in the world at the time would have jeopardised the hard-won gains of lockdown. Like most people, we heeded Dr Tony Holohan's warning that the reintroduction of foreign travel was a "major threat", increasing the risk of a second wave of Covid-19. With the front door of domestic lockdown largely secured, however, the back door of foreign travel was left wide open. Tourism into Dublin Port trebled from just 7,165 in May to 23,972 in August, unabated even after a resurgence of infections was attributed to foreign travel from countries including Britain. Read More While the EU banned flights from the worst coronavirus hotspots, including the US, travellers from those countries enjoy unfettered access to our beleaguered shores. Even as warnings grew of American tourists openly flouting quarantine, rather than tighten restrictions, our Government weakened them further. Cases increased, contact tracers became overwhelmed but, rather than stemming the flow of imported infections by closing external borders, our Government shut internal borders instead. On the day that three counties were put into lockdown, I spoke to a demoralised garda at a checkpoint: "I'm policing the movements of Irish citizens, while tourists can roam freely - no questions asked." The next day, my son counted 12 UK campervans on a short stretch of road and said: "How can you restrict your movements for 14 days with three kids and a dog in a campervan?" Bottom lip wobbling - missing grandma - he added: "It's not fair." Countries such as New Zealand, Taiwan and South Korea have pursued a zero-Covid approach by closing their borders, but opening up everything else, resuming normal lives, mitigating damage to their economies and preventing deaths. This is not only a legitimate step, but also a necessary biosecurity response to protect citizens against a deadly disease. For months, Leo Varadkar warned that mandatory quarantine might be illegal, despite the World Health Organisation's guidance stating: "Quarantine is included within the legal framework of the International Health Regulations (2005)." Having wasted two vital months, Health Minister Stephen Donnelly admitted that mandatory quarantine wasn't illegal after all, but declined to enforce it anyway. On August 9, when three counties were placed in lockdown, Donnelly asked our elderly to go back into quarantine essentially (some had never left). He promised that his department would prepare a plan to restrict non-essential travel from countries with high rates of coronavirus. Almost two months later, no plan has emerged. Our vulnerable remain in hiding. So why does our Government persist with this purgatorial cycle of political paralysis? Incompetence is the obvious frontrunner, but the elephant in the room is undoubtedly the aviation lobby. Ubiquitous in the media, irrespective of the question, respondents invariably deploy the old "2pc" decoy. On July 2, Stephen Donnelly announced that new cases from international travel had gone up from 2pc to 17pc in the previous week. On July 20 it went up to 21pc, yet ministers continue to claim that "only 2pc" of infections are related to foreign travel. The Government dashboard shows a flat-line trajectory, indicating that it hasn't been updated since April. As this data is so often invoked by the aviation lobby, I asked the HSE for a breakdown on how it was established. No explanation has been forthcoming. Given that resource-stricken contact tracers only go back two days, it's highly likely that foreign travel goes undetected, captured later under "community transmission", which basically means "unknown". The National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) has repeatedly warned that the importation of cases from people travelling to Ireland from other countries would cause a second wave. Dr Ronan Glynn advised that mandatory quarantine should be in place for all people travelling into Ireland from abroad - regardless of whether the country is on the Green List. If that's "unworkable", he said, Ireland should introduce a ban on all non-essential travel to countries where the virus is highly prevalent, such as the US. Instead, the deterrent of "non-essential" travel relating to the risible Green List was removed in September. Encouraging overseas holidays in the midst of a global pandemic smacks of State-sponsored hedonism, underwritten by our jaded health and essential workers. Coronavirus, unlike fawning governments, cannot be beaten into submission. As long as borders remain open, the rest of society faces a relentless, excruciating, futile cycle of persecutory lockdowns only to "open" again - at 50pc capacity. All the while looking over our shoulder as the virus circulates within our communities like a silent assassin. Last week, I sat with my sobbing son watching his beloved grandma's funeral streamed from Britain and I felt his agonising loss and his sacrifice, made all the harder for knowing that it was squandered. Unaware of secret proceedings in UK delaying Mallyas extradition: Centre tells SC India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 05: The Ministry of External Affairs has told the Supreme Court that the extradition of Vijay Mallya was ordered by the highest court in the United Kinggom. The MEA also said that some secret proceedings are happening. We have not been made aware of these proceedings. We are not a party and have not been served anything, the court was also informed. The Supreme Court then asked Mallya's counsel to inform it by November 2 the nature of the secret proceedings. The court also sought to know details of the likely date of completion and when Mallya would appear before the SC for quantification of the sentence to be awarded to be for contempt of court. He has already been found guilty for contempt. Court issues Letter of Request to US to aiding in CBI probe against Vijay Mallya JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News The Centre informed the SC that it is not aware of the secret ongoing proceedings in UK which is delaying former liquor baron Vijay Mallya to India. The Centre said it is neither aware of the nature of the proceedings nor is a party to it. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 14:26 [IST] American journalist who kept up fellow prisoners' morale James Foley, from Illinois, USA, was a journalist who first went missing in November 2012 James Foley, from Illinois, in the US, was a journalist who first went missing in November 2012. On his way to an internet cafe, while reporting for the GlobalPost, he had been taken hostage at gunpoint by militants from the group Jabhat al Nusra in Taftanaz, northern Syria. Jabhat al Nusra subsequently joined forces with ISIS - which did not exist in anything like its current form when Mr Foley was taken. Mr Foley joined other prisoners, who were European and British, in the ISIS prison and despite attempts to rescue him, he was eventually murdered by his captors. His fellow prisoners spoke kindly of Foley, who called people 'Bro' and never argued over shortages of food, despite meagre rations equating to cup of food-a-day, often sharing his portion and his blanket. Mr Foley often made efforts to maintain prisoners' morale, persuading them to play games and to give talks on their favourite subjects. He even organised a 'Secret Santa' during Christmas 2013, encouraging hostages to make gifts out of whatever they could find. ISIS posted his execution video, titled 'A Message to America' to social media as proof of his death. In scripted remarks before his killing, kneeling in an orange jump suit, he said: 'I wish I could have the hope of freedom and seeing my family once again. 'But that ship has sailed. I guess all in all I wish I wasn't American.' 'The guy lit up a room': US freelance journalist who was an avid rugby player Steven Sotloff, 31, from Miami, who freelanced for Time and Foreign Policy magazines, vanished in Syria in 2013 US journalist Steven Sotloff, 31, vanished in Syria in August 2013. Mr Sotloff was not seen again until he appeared in a video released online by ISIS on August 2014, that showed James Foley's beheading. In a second clip, published weeks later, entitled 'A Second Message to America,' Mr Sotloff appeared in a orange jumpsuit before he is beheaded by an Islamic State fighter. The grandson of Holocaust survivors, Mr Sotloff grew up Miami, before attending the Kimball Union Academy boarding school in New Hampshire before studying at the University of Central Florida. While at Kimball, Mr Sotloff was an avid rugby player and on moving to UFC began working for the student newspaper there, the Central Florida Future. He left this paper in 2005 and began to pursue his dreams of journalism full time. 'The guy lit up a room. He was always such a loyal, caring and good friend to us,' former roommate Josh Polsky told the New York Times. 'If you needed to rely on anybody for anything he would drop everything on a dime for you or for anyone else.' Sotloff travelled to the Middle East as a freelance journalist and wrote reports from Bahrain, Egypt, Libya, Turkey and Syria. He often had pieces in Time and Foreign Policy magazines. 'A million people could have told him what he was doing was foolish, as it seemed to us outsiders looking in, but to him it was what he loved to do and you weren't going to stop him,' his friend, Emerson Lotzia, said. 'Steve said it was scary over there. It was dangerous. It wasn't safe to be over there. He knew it. He kept going back.' British taxi driver who volunteered as an aid worker Alan Henning, a father-of-two, was kidnapped on Boxing Day 2013 as he delivered aid to Syrian refugees Alan Henning, a father-of-two, was kidnapped on Boxing Day 2013 as he delivered aid to Syrian refugees. The taxi-driver, from Manchester, was kept hostage until he was beheaded by Jihadi John on video in October 2014. Before he was killed, Mr Henning was forced to tell the camera that he was being murdered in retaliation for parliament's decision to attack ISIS. Originally from Salford, he had seen the suffering first hand during a life-changing visit to a refugee camp, which inspired him to help the innocents whose lives were being wrecked by the conflict. After volunteering with a Muslim charity, the 47-year-old agreed to drive 3,000 miles in a convoy of old ambulances to help the aid effort and take much-needed medical supplies to hospitals in the northern Syrian province of Idlib. Known as 'Gadget' to friends and family for his fondness for technology, Mr Henning had been washing cars in the UK to raise money for donations before setting off on his fourth visit to the country. He travelled with eight others from charity Al-Fathiha Global, who intended to deliver vital equipment, including NHS ambulances packed with baby milk, nappies, food and defibrillators, but was kidnapped by ISIS extremists on Boxing Day, shortly after making the 4,000-mile journey to the town of Al-Dana. A fan of Phil Collins, which he enjoyed playing as he drove, Mr Henning was incredibly popular and during one trip insisted on sleeping inside his ambulance instead of a hotel to save money so it could be donated to the refugees instead. Kasim Jameel, leader of the convoy on which Mr Henning was travelling when he was kidnapped, described his friend as a 'big softie.' Dr Shameela Islam-Zulfiqar, who was also in the convoy, said Mr Henning was 'remarkable.' 'He's such a compassionate and selfless human being,' she said. 'It just simply wasn't enough for Alan to sit back and just donate or raise awareness. He had to get up and do something about what he'd seen Every time the convoys went he had a yearning to go. That really motivated him, to see, practically, first-hand the difference he was making.' Scottish father-of-two who spent his career as an aid worker David Haines, who was beheaded a week after Steven Sotloff, was the first British victim of Jihadi John David Haines, who was beheaded a week after Steven Sotloff, was the first British victim of Jihadi John. The father-of-two, from Holderness, East Yorkshire, was taken hostage while working for relief agency ACTED in Syria in March this year. He was captured near the Atmeh refugee camp, just inside the Syrian border with Turkey. Mr Haines spent his career as an aid worker helping to protect innocent civilians in developing nations. For more than two decades, he travelled with aid agencies through Syria, Libya, the former Yugoslavia and South Sudan. He dedicated his life to promoting peace in places of violent conflict and oversaw projects to save civilians from land mines. The 44-year-old was described as a hero by his family, who were inspired by him to travel the world on further aid missions. He had a teenage daughter in Scotland from a previous marriage with his first wife, and a four-year-old daughter, Athea, in Croatia from his second wife. Mr Haines was brought up in Perth, Scotland, and studied at Perth Academy before joining the military aged 17. According to his online CV he spent 11 years in the military, holding 'various positions covering security and threat assessments in a number of different countries' between 1988 and 1999. It did not specify with which armed forces he served, although his ISIS execution video claimed he had been in the Royal Air Force. His brother Mike later confirmed this, saying he was an engineer. 26-year-old who was helping refugees while living in Beirut Peter Kassig, a 26-year-old from Indiana, was beheaded by ISIS executioner Jihadi John in November 2014 Peter Kassig, a 26-year-old from Indiana, started a non-profit organisation called Special Emergency Response and Assistance (SERA). The Iraq war veteran, who was living in Beirut to provide relief for refugees of the Syrian crisis, was beheaded by ISIS executioner Jihadi John, in November 2014. Writing on his profile page on fundraising website FundRazr, Mr Kassig said he had previously worked as a medic in a hospital in Tripoli, Lebanon. He said: 'When I first started this cause to help those in need, I was on my own but I saw first-hand the shortages in available resources and supplies for people who were suffering in Lebanon, Syria, and Turkey as a result of the violence. 'The amount of feedback and support from people all around the world motivated me to get organised and develop a platform through which people could send donations to support the continuation of my work.' Kassig joined the U.S. Army Rangers in 2006 and was deployed to Iraq in 2007. He was honourably discharged for medical reasons after a brief tour and returned to the United States to study political science. However, in 2010, he decided to take time off from his studies and began his certification as an emergency medical technician. He then decided to travel to Beirut to try and help those in need as a result of the Syria crisis. It was after a short time in the country that he started up his own aid group, SERA. Few details are publicly known about how Kassig was taken captive. The 26-year-old humanitarian who said there was always light in darkness Kayla Mueller, 26, was kept as a sex slave by ISIS leader Abu Bakr al Baghdadi American Kayla Mueller was a humanitarian aid worker who was kidnapped and taken hostage in August 2013 after leaving a Doctors Without Borders hospital in Aleppo, Syria. She was kept as a sex slave by ISIS leader Abu Bakr al Baghdadi, who raped her repeatedly during her captivity. The fanatics reportedly demanded 5 million euros from Mueller's family, telling them that that they would send a picture of her body if they were not given money. Kotey has admitted having contact with her, adding: I took an email from her myself. She was in a room by herself that no one would go in.' Her death was reported in February 2015 and her name was used as the codeword for the daring US raid that killed her once captor. Kaylas body has never been found and her parents live in hope her remains will be recovered. Mother Martha said: I want people to see the light in Kayla in such utter darkness, how she just said there is always light. "And I also want people to see that she even told people that as far as where she was, maybe she was supposed to be there, this is where she was supposed to be all along. She always wanted to help. U.S. President Donald Trump makes an announcement after he and First Lady Melania Trump tested positive for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in Washington, U.S., October 2, 2020, in this still image taken a video posted on Trump's twitter page. Donald Trump via Twitter | @realDonaldTrump President Donald Trump's path to reelection hinges largely on the trajectory of the coronavirus and its impact on the national economy, and he's gotten unsettling news about both lately. Comparatively lackluster job growth in September coupled with the coronavirus infection that hit the president and multiple others in his orbit set a troubling landscape with less than month to go before the showdown against former Vice President Joe Biden. With polls indicating Trump losing ground, he can hardly afford any additional negative signs. "You can make an increasingly good case that the economy is starting to level off, and the labor market shows that," said Greg Valliere, chief U.S. policy strategist at AGF Investments. "He's got both a softening economy and now a renewed focus on Covid, and both of those don't play to his strength right now." As both issues have played out over the past several days, the gap between Trump and Biden is growing. Biden now holds an 8.3 percentage point lead over Trump, according to the latest RealClearPolitics consensus. That split has widened somewhat over the past several days, as an NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll released Sunday showed Biden with a 14-point edge. There will be no further significant data points between now and the election for the president to showcase his job-creation skills. While he can tout the 11.4 million jobs that have been recaptured since the economic shutdown of March and April, the September nonfarm payrolls count was less than half the nearly 1.5 million added in August. The unemployment rate has fallen to 7.9%. from 14.7% in April, but that's still the highest for any sitting president at the time of reelection going back to at least 1948. Zoom In Icon Arrows pointing outwards At the same time, weekly jobless claims have been stuck above 800,000, and his Republican Party negotiators cannot find middle ground with congressional Democrats for another stimulus bill to bring back more jobs. Trying to change the subject Trump had been looking to galvanize his base with what likely will be a contentious but base-pleasing Supreme Court battle over the Amy Coney Barrett nomination, but the future of that looks less certain now. "He was desperately hoping to change the subject away from Covid to something else, and that something else was the Supreme Court," Valliere said. "Now it's going back to the one story that Trump does not want to spend much time on, and that's Covid." To be sure, the news isn't all bad on either the economy or disease front. Most other economic data points are fairly solid, and the third-quarter GDP growth could hit a 33% annualized rate, according to the most recent projection from Bank of America Global Research. Housing data has been strong, and recent ISM indicators on both services and manufacturing show resumed growth. However, most of what happened in the third quarter, outside of real estate, was catch-up from the precipitous second-quarter slide. With winter approaching and Q4 growth likely to show a marked slowdown, Trump's economic case could weaken. "There's a fairly long list that shows the recovery's under way. My concern is there's been some slowing," said Steve Friedman, senior macroeconomist at MacKay Shields. "At the end of the day, there's only so much the economy can improve while the virus is still a risk." The economy is now largely in the hands of the parties debating the next stimulus. Friedman said this round will need to focus on the basic elements of the CARES Act, such as forgivable loans to businesses and direct payments to displaced workers, as well as aid to cash-strapped state and local governments. Should a deal get done, Trump can use that to provide hope that the nascent recovery can keep going. "The longer this pandemic goes, the more halting fiscal policy is, the greater chance that there is more permanent damage to the economy," Friedman said. "My broad concern is that you really do have some scarring of the economy so that the run rate of growth in the medium term is going to be lower." Comparisons to 2016 Five people have been killed after an automobile crashed into a motorbike and plunged off a bridge in the north-central Vietnamese province of Nghe An. Preliminary information showed that the accident happened at around 8:00 pm on Sunday along a suspension bridge that connects Thanh Lien and Phong Thinh Communes in Thanh Chuong District. The car, whose driver has yet to be identified, was carrying three people when it collided with two people on a motorcycle crossing the bridge. The automobile then slammed into the fence of the bridge and dropped into the Giang River. One of the two people on the motorbike was also thrown into the water, while the other suffered critical injuries and was brought to the hospital for emergency treatment. Rescuers promptly arrived but they faced a lot of challenges as there was no electricity in the location. The bodies of the three victims in the car were found at 10:20 pm the same day. The remains of the man on the motorbike were brought ashore 20 minutes later. At 11:00 pm, the other victim on the motorcycle succumbed to their injuries. The car was salvaged at midnight. A suspension bridge is sealed off following an accident in Nghe An Province, Vietnam, October 4, 2020. Photo: Doan Hoa / Tuoi Tre All five people involved in the accident were killed. The three victims in the car were later identified as Nguyen The Tuan, 40, Le Dinh An, 37, and Le Dinh Quyet, 47, while the two motorcyclists were Dao Van Nam and Hoang Anh Tuan, both 28. The suspension bridge was sealed off for authorities to examine the crash site and investigate the cause of the accident. Built in 1985, the bridge is 120 meters long and nearly five meters wide. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! According to Instagram user Oscar V (wb.artist20), the modifications are actually on the light side of things: he decided to do just two quick edits. We wouldnt call a new body style as being something simple to achieve (save for the alternate reality of the Photoshop world), let alone think moving the engine from the front to a midship position is very easy.But, hey, when you do the modifications yourself and never have to fight an entire team of corporate bosses, its entirely up to you how to describe the work. Of course, no one really expects these projects to leave the virtual realm, so a few conventions can be disregarded for the purpose of general car entertainment.Ever since it was introduced, the Z Proto study has been hotly debated by the fan community and it quickly morphed into its possible 400Z series representation. It was also transformed into an entire family, with SUV and sedan derivatives so it was only a matter of time before the virtual artists entered the exotic world.This is the case today, when the Japanese sports car gets an upgrade to the shooting brake option and also moves the engine. That latter part was actually hard to spot if not for the description of the artist itself, which also decided to address the most controversial design element...Yes, of course, we are talking about the new rectangular radiator grille, which seems to have become the preferred point of debate for everyone surfing the web in search of what else is new about the Z Proto . It turns out the artist made a quick fix of the problem, by simply altering the perfect rectangular (and for many, hideous) shape. Nissan, what do you say now? The Supreme Court will face an month of unusual uncertainty when its new term begins Monday. (J. Scott Applewhite / Associated Press) The Supreme Court opens a new term on Monday and within weeks is set to hear cases on healthcare and religion that may give a preview of how the conservative majority will wield its power. But the eight justices also face a month of unusual uncertainty. They will wait to see if a new justice is confirmed, whether President Trump is reelected in early November, and whether they are called upon to decide any disputes that arise if the election is very close. The outcome of the election will surely shape the term ahead, even though many of the cases are already set. The justices will find themselves weighing cases on immigration, the census and healthcare from a triumphant conservative administration, or a series of last-gasp appeals from a defeated president. Either way, the term's initial cases will be heard by a court with a conservative majority 6-3 if Trump's choice, Amy Coney Barrett, has won confirmation or 5-3 if her nomination has stalled. The defining issue of the year seems likely to be how aggressively that conservative majority will move. An early test is set to come a week after the election when the justices take up the latest challenge to President Obama's Affordable Care Act. Despite his promises, Trump failed to "repeal and replace" the healthcare law when Republicans controlled Congress. Now, he and his lawyers are pressing the high court to strike it down amid the COVID-19 pandemic. They contend that when the tax penalty for not having insurance was reduced to zero in 2017, it had the effect of cutting out the pillar that propped up the far-reaching law. "The entire ACA thus must fall with the individual mandate," Trump's lawyers told the court. If the court's conservatives were to agree, it would cancel the insurance subsidies for nearly 30 million Americans as well as the insurance protections for more than 50 million others who could be denied coverage because they have a preexisting medical condition. The law also made healthcare screenings at no cost for children and adults a standard part of a medical checkup. Story continues The case is called California vs. Texas because California Atty. Gen. Xavier Becerra and a coalition of Democratic-led states stepped in to the defend the law after the administration joined with Texas and a group of Republican states that sued to kill it. "A pre-existing medical condition should never again disqualify you from receiving affordable healthcare, Becerra said in response to the administration's appeal. The oral argument is set for Nov. 10. The nation should know by then whether Trump has been reelected or defeated. Prior to the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, this latest challenge to the healthcare law looked headed for defeat. Five members of the court including Ginsburg and Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. rejected legal attacks on the law in 2012 and 2015. They did so in the face of fierce dissents from four conservatives who said the entire law should be voided. They were Justices Antonin Scalia, Anthony Kennedy, Clarence Thomas and Samuel A. Alito Jr. Thomas and Alito remain on the court, and they will be joined by Trump's appointees Justices Neil M. Gorsuch, Brett M. Kavanaugh and, quite likely, Barrett who see themselves as proteges of Scalia or Kennedy. Nonetheless, most legal experts, including critics of the law, see this latest challenge as a weak one and predict that even a more conservative court will reject it. There are two questions before the justices: Is the so-called individual mandate the requirement that people purchase health insurance unconstitutional now because there is no longer any penalty to enforce it? And if so, must the rest of the law be declared unconstitutional as well? Lawyers for Texas convinced a federal judge in Fort Worth that the mandate is now unconstitutional and that the entire law must be voided. The Supreme Court, however, has taken a much more cautious approach to striking down sweeping measures even if one provision is found to be invalid. Instead, they invoke what is called the "severability doctrine." In early July, Kavanaugh wrote an opinion for the court that is sure to be quoted in the healthcare case. By a 7-2 vote, the court upheld a 1991 federal law banning robocalls, despite finding one provision unconstitutional. Kavanaugh wrote that there is a "strong presumption" against voiding laws because of one defect. Instead, the flawed provision may be severed or removed, while the rest is preserved. "Constitutional litigation is not a game of gotcha against Congress, where litigants can ride a discrete constitutional flaw in a statute to take down the whole, otherwise constitutional statute," Kavanaugh said. Only two justices Thomas and Gorsuch disagreed. Another early opportunity for the conservatives will come the day after the election, when the justices will hear a claim from conservative Christians who say they have a religious right to be exempted from antidiscrimination laws that protect LGBTQ people. Two years ago, the court ruled in favor of a Colorado baker who refused to make a wedding cake for a same-sex couple, but it did so without setting a legal rule. Instead, the justices said only that a state civil rights commission had impermissibly displayed "hostility" toward the baker. In the new case, Catholic Social Services sued the city of Philadelphia after it lost its annual contract for caring for foster children and placing them with foster parents. The city acted after learning that, unlike more than two dozen other private foster agencies, the Catholic agency had said it would not place children with same-sex couples. Foster placements with same-sex couples would violate the church's teaching that marriage is limited to a man and a woman, its officials said. Lawyers for the agency say that excluding them violated the church's 1st Amendment right to the "free exercise" of religion and the freedom of speech. Philadelphia, by contrast, says its ordinances forbid contractors from discriminating based on race, religion, national origin or sexual orientation. A federal district judge and the 3rd Circuit Court ruled for the city. The appeals court said the "city's nondiscrimination policy is a neutral, generally applicable law, and the religious views of CSS do not entitle it to an exception from that policy." The lower courts cited a 1990 opinion written by Scalia. Back when Scalia wrote that decision, conservative justices were skeptical of courts giving religious claimants special exemptions from laws that apply to everyone. More recently, however, the court's conservatives have signaled a change of mind and suggested they may overrule Scalia's opinion. The new case Fulton vs. Philadelphia will come before a court with five conservative justices who were raised as Catholics six if Barrett is confirmed. One other Catholic justice, Sonia Sotomayor, is a member of the court's liberal minority. The justices are also due to act soon on an emergency appeal from the Trump administration regarding whether to make it easier or harder for pregnant women to obtain abortion pills during the pandemic. Current rules require women to travel in person to a clinic or hospital to pick up the medication rather than have it delivered through the mail. A federal judge in Maryland, agreeing with national medical groups, said this rule made little sense during the pandemic when a patient was interacting with her doctor through telemedicine rather than in person. The trip could also expose her to a risk of contracting the virus. The judge ordered the rule temporarily suspended. But in early September, Trump's lawyers asked the Supreme Court to intervene and restore the rule. They argued a judge had no authority to waive such a medical rule. Usually the justices act on such emergency appeals within a week or two, but this one has not been resolved. Justice Ginsburg's death on Sept. 18 may have stalled a decision. Now the eight justices must decide whether to make their first ruling since Ginsburg's death on an issue involving women and abortion. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The Walking Dead: World Beyond spin-off premiered Sunday on AMC giving fans of the zombie franchise a look at life 10 years after the apocalypse. Its heroines, sisters Iris and Hope Bennett (Aliyah Royale and Alexa Mansour), initially seemed to live a normal existence, attending school, throwing parties and staying far away from zombies, called 'empties,' whom they rarely encounter in daily life. Underneath the surface, however, it became clear that everything was ruled by the Civic Republic Military, a group fleetingly seen in the precursor show, which has come to rule the United States. Spin-off premiere: Aliyah Royale as main character Iris is shown in a still from The Walking Dead: World Beyond spin-off that premiered Sunday on AMC The CRM has forged an 'Alliance of Three,' which includes settlements in Portland, Oregon, and Omaha, Nebraska, where the girls' suburban school campus was designated a colony. Helping to lead CRM is the mysterious Lieutenant Colonel Elizabeth Kublek (Julia Ormond), who from the start seemed to possess a shadowy agenda. Before long, the girls have realized not all is what it seems, and flee their safe haven to find their father, a professor working for CRM in a 'science exchange' who appears to be in danger. To survive, Iris, a type-A former CRM acolyte, learns to fight zombies for the first time. Ten years: Alexa Mansour as Hope was trying to navigate life 10 years after the zombie apocalypse 'I'm finally living for me, in the now, searching for my own truth,' she said as she stabbed at her first empty. 'And do you know what? It feels good!' Iris had long believed in CRM's new world order, not knowing what else to do. Ten years before, on 'The Night the Sky Fell,' she and Hope fled through a chaotic scene of death and destruction brought on by the sudden onset of the zombie apocalypse. Sky fell: Ten years before, on 'The Night the Sky Fell,' Iris and Hope fled through a chaotic scene of death and destruction brought on by the sudden onset of the zombie apocalypse As they ran through explosions, grasping their parents' hands, a plane crashed in their midst, and the sisters were separated from each other. Over the next few minutes, Hope watched her mother die, horribly and senselessly. That loss played on Iris' mind as the CRM visited the colony for Monument Day, an upcoming event commemorating the start of the apocalypse and the memory of the dead. Special guest: Annet Mahendru as Huck, Nico Tortorella as Felix and Iris welcomed the CRM As Student Council president, Iris led her peers on a bus trip to welcome the incoming CRM. Hope, who hid in the bus' luggage compartment, amended their welcome banner to read, 'The Civil Republic Sucks A**,' which irritated Iris. At their destination, Hope visited a makeshift cemetery and left flowers on her mother's grave. Makeshift cemetery: At their destination, Hope visited a makeshift cemetery and left flowers on her mother's grave She spotted five CRM helicopters overhead, one of which landed with Elizabeth in it. 'I'm sure you're tired,' said Felix Carlucci (Nico Tortorella), a colony security officer. 'It was probably a long trip from wherever you're from.' 'It was,' Elizabeth returned, signaling her men to shoot some approaching zombies. In charge: Helping to lead CRM is the mysterious Lieutenant Colonel Elizabeth Kublek (Julia Ormond) Zombie sighting: A zombie appeared but was quickly dispatched by CRM security 'We fire disruption charges to scatter the sound,' she reassured Felix. 'We won't draw any more. We're quite good at this, wherever we're from. In the distance, Elizabeth saw Hope flip her the bird. The lieutenant colonel said there had been talk of having government officials join them, but the CRM 'wasn't comfortable sending civilians.' Secret passenger: Hope stowed away on the bus, but her sister was part of the delegation She then met with the students, whose updated sign read, 'The Civic Republic US.' At home, Iris chided Hope for changing the banner, reminding her that their father was working with the CRM to end the zombie plague. He kept a fax, pager and radio tuner hidden in his university office just to send them messages. Absent father: At home, Iris chided Hope for changing the banner, reminding her that their father was working with the CRM to end the zombie plague Iris prepared to give a speech for Monument Dayso named, she said, 'because we are all monuments to the past. We survived, and the rest didn't.' Iris barely remembered the world before apocalypse, but felt sure she could change the future. In her notebook, she drew a crashed plane, a DNA strand, an opening gate, and a map of the US, with question marks around everything that wasn't Portland, Omaha or CRM territory. Strong personalities: Iris barely remembered the world before apocalypse, but felt sure she could change the future, while Hope didn't trust authority and wanted more freedom The next day, Iris visited her dad's office and again found no pager messages from him. From her backpack, she took out 'The Lost Rocks,' a 2011 book which investigated what happened to the Lost Colony of Roanoke, Virginia. Her father had left messages in it, the last one apologizing for missing Monument Day, and offering, 'Sending these messages are a risk, but I need you both to know I'm okay.' Iris went off to class, where she learned that Hope was busted for making alcohol in her room. Illegal alcohol: Hope was busted for making alcohol in her room and was temporarily jailed Felix, who held Hope in a cell, was the sisters' temporary guardian, having also dated Will, the head of their father's security detail. Iris got Hope out and they ran into Elizabeth, who thanked them for allowing their father to help the CRM, praised Iris' studiousness, and complimented Hope's distillery. 'I don't need to listen to this crap,' Hope spat, telling her sister, 'She is part of the reason why we're never gonna see Dad again. And deep down inside, you know that.' In a visit to her psychologist, Dr. K (Beth Leavel), Iris confessed that she'd been having dreams she was 'stumbling around dead,' and her doctor urged her to speak to Hope about their loss. Death dreams: In a visit to her psychologist, Dr. K (Beth Leavel), Iris confessed that she'd been having dreams she was 'stumbling around dead,' and her doctor urged her to speak to Hope about their loss Iris remembered The Night the Sky Fell, and how she had been so afraid of zombies she broke free from her mother in the crowd and never saw her again. Dr. K worried that a traumatized Iris had been so focused on the future and helping others that she neglected herself. She urged her to remember how precious time was. 'It's your life,' Dr. K affirmed. 'Only you can figure out how to give it meaning.' Sage advice: Dr. K worried that a traumatized Iris had been so focused on the future and helping others that she neglected herself and urged her to remember how precious time was In the school gym, Hope was also thinking about her mother, and how they walked through the wreckage of the downed plane, with its pile of zombies and dead bodies. She had been learning from Huck how to fight the dead, and yearned to see the world outside. Heading to her dad's office, she found Iris in front of the fax machine, reading a message from him that said, 'My safety is not assured!' Horrible memory: In the school gym, Hope was also thinking about her mother, and how they walked through the wreckage of the downed plane, with its pile of zombies and dead bodies Classmates Elton Ortiz (Nicholas Cantu) and Silas Plaskett (Hal Cumpston) also spotted the fax, and vowed not to tell. Elton even revealed his own secret: He regularly snuck outside the school's borders. Hope grew frustrated with Iris' allegiance to the CRM, and told her she had seen five CRM helicopters flying around the day beforenot one, as Elizabeth had suggested. Offering support: Classmates Elton Ortiz (Nicholas Cantu) and Silas Plaskett (Hal Cumpston) also spotted the fax, and vowed not to tell After consulting with Felix, they reluctantly decided it would be best not to help their dad. Outside, Hope yelled at Iris, 'How can you not see this? They are bad people, Iris, and they have our dad!' Elizabeth strolled out of the dark. 'Are you talking about us? The Civic Republic? One of your Alliance partners? C'mon, tell me. How are we bad, exactly?' Surprise appearance: Elizabeth strolled out of the dark. 'Are you talking about us? The Civic Republic? One of your Alliance partners? C'mon, tell me. How are we bad, exactly?' Iris faced her. 'You don't let anyone in or out. You won't let people communicate with your people. Or vice-versa. You don't tell anyone where you are, and you have our dad.' Elizabeth told the girls she had a daughter who was a CRM soldier, and while she was often scared for her, she felt emboldened by the bravery she showed. She let them know that their father was teaching at the CR research facility in New York, and risked jail time by handing them a coded map with her own stamp and watermark. Risky map: She let the girls know their father was teaching at the CR research facility in New York, and risked jail time by handing them a coded map with her own stamp and watermark Elizabeth then conceded that she was drunk on champagne from Hope's own stash. 'You really are your father's daughter,' she told the girl. 'You both are.' The sisters retreated to their father's office for brandy, passing out and waking up to another message. Father's daughters: 'You really are your father's daughter,' Elizabeth told the girl. 'You both are.' 'It's all gone bad,' it said. 'Keeping my head down. I'll find help. Don't tell the Council. Don't tell Felix. I love you girls.' Iris went to see Dr. K, but found to her horror that the woman had turned into a zombie. Numb from the discovery, she scrapped her cheery Monument Day speech and improvised a new one about how Dr. K had taught her to seize control of her life. Zombie now: Iris went to see Dr. K, but found to her horror that the woman had turned into a zombie 'The Night the Sky Fell, I was just a little kid, and I just jumped to living for the future,' Iris said as Elizabeth sat nearby. 'I think a lot of us did. And what I figured out? I have to start with now. And I think ''now'' starts with the truth.' She turned to the CRM leader. 'The truth is I don't trust you. I don't know who you are. I don't know what you're doing.' Elizabeth said Iris would know 'someday,' but the aspiring scientist insisted that wasn't enough. The truth: 'The truth is I don't trust you. I don't know who you are. I don't know what you're doing,' Iris said during her speech 'Science is about finding the truth, not just deciding on it,' Iris noted, acknowledging it was hard to wait. 'But someone once told me that I'm brave. So I'm gonna keep working in the now to find it.' Iris took her sister aside and told her they needed to go save their dad. She apologized for letting her suffer through the loss of their mom alone. Big day: Elizabeth was the featured speaker for Monument Day 'I'm glad you didn't have to see it,' Hope said. Hope knew that on the night in question, her mother had tried to commandeer a truck to find her husband and daughter, but a pregnant lady who wanted the vehicle held a gun on them. When Hope rushed her, she discharged the gun, killing Hope's mom. Hope picked it up and aimed it at the woman just an explosion went off, and she fell dead. Gun violence: Hope witnessed her mother get shot and picked up the gun and aimed it at the woman who fired it Elton and Silas asked to join the sisters on their journey, offering to help them escape the gates. The girls left a note for Felix, who immediately set about looking for them with Huck. Outside, Silas stumbled across a strange object, a triceratops horn Elton had bought years before for his unborn sister. Heading out: Outside, Silas stumbled across a strange object, a triceratops horn Elton had bought years before for his unborn sister 'We weren't together,' Elton said of his mom, looking at a photo of the same pregnant woman Hope had shot. 'I never saw her again.' He strapped the horn to the barrel of his weapon, and Iris used it to kill her first zombie. In their absence, a massacre had occurred on campus. A tank drove through the gate, and students and zombies were stabbed by MRC soldiers. Monument Day banners were torched. Through it all, Elizabeth walked calmly, killing zombies at random. Calm killer: Elizabeth walked calmly killing zombies at random after a school massacre 'We've searched every building on campus and the surrounding areas,' a soldier told her. 'We can't find her.' 'Good,' Elizabeth replied. The Walking Dead: World Beyond will return next week on AMC. According to Ballinalee native and Ibec Chief Economist, Gerard Brady, next weeks Budget must see the Government 'continue to take the right decisions, by introducing targeted measures to protect those most impacted sectors and workers from the twin threats of COVID and Brexit'. Ibec, the group that represents Irish business, today published its new Quarterly Economic Outlook Q3 2020, which forecasts a fall in GDP of -2.6% in 2020. The group says that Ireland is experiencing a K-shaped recovery, with a growing gap between firms and households whose economic prospects have proven resilient during COVID and those which face significant falls in income and opportunity. This is borne out in recent data, which shows that domestic demand fell by one fifth in Q2, while conversely our exports proved more robust than anywhere else in the EU. Commenting on the report, Ibec Chief Economist, Gerard Brady, said: Q2 saw the collapse of domestic demand, with consumption and investment both falling dramatically amid some of the strictest lockdown measures seen in the EU. On the other hand, the strong performance of our exports gives cause for optimism. "In Q2 of this year exports in Ireland were flat, while in most European countries they fell by between 10% and 40%. As an open economy with access to one of the Worlds biggest markets, our export model will again provide the opportunity to grow our way out of a difficult economic position. But this strategy of export-led growth will only succeed, for all sectors and regions, if workers in growing sectors can spend their incomes in local economies. As it stands, a minority of sectors and workers are being asked to take a significant economic hit, and are bearing the brunt of the public health measures. "Constrained opportunities for spending in our economy meant that households saved 9.8 billion in the first seven months of 2020. They now hold 20 billion more in Irish banks than they owe in debt. This is a turnaround from a figure of minus 70 billion in 2008. These resources and our ongoing export and public investment strength are the key difference between this recession and the last. The key to Budget 2021 is not a challenge of a society with too little resources, it is a challenge of finding the right channels to get those resources moving, and people back to work. The Government has already made the right decisions by committing to make this the first crisis in modern history where we prioritise ongoing investment in key infrastructure. "Next weeks Budget must see the Government continue to take the right decisions, by introducing targeted measures to protect those most impacted sectors and workers from the twin threats of Covid-19 and Brexit. I want to share about my trip to Rammang-Rammang before Covid 19. Rammang-Rammang Karst very wonderful nature of South Sulawesi, about 40 km north of Makassar City. We never expected this area is really beautiful and refreshing. It was such a memorable trip. For you who loves anti mainstream trip, you will love it so much. It's very worth it for visit. Before we see the village surrounded by the karst wall, we have to ride local boats through the Pute River. The river is clean and along the route you will see tall karst walls from million years ago, grey limestone rocks of various sizes and shapes. We are very enjoy the fresh air, the karst and everything in between are just magnificent. Arriving at the village you can enjoy walking between rice paddy fields, Karst stones surround it, local farmer houses, beautiful scenery landscapes at Rammang-Rammang. I went there on early morning, but if you want to get there on afternoon onward, you can stay overnight on local houses. The local people, their very friendly. There are several stunning place you can visit when you arrive at Rammang-Rammang. If you want to go to Rammang-Rammang, you can have a lot of information at that website is very helpful. If you have any information about Rammang-Rammang please share here. Thank you. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has arrived in Qatar for a bilateral meeting with the leaders of the Gulf state but will not hold talks with Taliban representatives even as peace talks are under way in the country's capital city, Doha, according to officials. Negotiations between the Afghan government and the Taliban that started last month are aimed at the warring sides agreeing to a reduction of violence and a possible new power-sharing agreement. So far, there has been no progress as the two sides have become bogged down on processes and procedures, according to diplomatic sources. The intra-Afghan talks are part of a landmark deal signed between the United States and the Taliban in February. Under the deal, foreign forces will leave Afghanistan by May 2021 in exchange for counterterrorism guarantees from the Taliban, which agreed to negotiate a permanent cease-fire and a power-sharing formula with the Afghan government. Scores of Afghan soldiers and Taliban fighters have been killed in clashes and suicide attacks that have also left dozens of civilians dead in recent weeks across the war-torn country. Ghani and his team will be stopping first in Kuwait to attend the funeral of the late emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, before traveling to Qatar later on October 5, according to a close aide to Ghani. "Several meetings are planned to discuss efforts for deepening Afghanistan-Qatar ties and mutual cooperation in various areas," said the official, adding that Ghani will also meet the Afghan representatives who are holding talks with the Taliban. "But it is clear that Ghani will not meet the Taliban officials as there has been no reduction of violence and they continue to kill innocent civilians," said a senior Western diplomat overseeing the ongoing peace process. At least eight people were killed in a car-bomb explosion on October 5 targeting the governor of the eastern Laghman Province, Rahmatullah Yarmal, officials said. At least 30 others -- mostly civilians -- were also wounded in the attack, which took place in the provincial capital, Mehtarlam, the Afghan Interior Ministry said. Yarmal escaped unharmed, a provincial police spokesperson said. No group has claimed responsibility for the incident. Over the weekend, at least 15 people, mostly civilians, were killed and more than 40 others wounded in a truck-bomb attack that targeted a government building in eastern Afghanistan, officials said. No one has so far claimed responsibility for the attack. Both the Taliban and the Islamic State extremist group are active in the region. According to the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), at least 1,282 civilians were killed and at least 2,176 others were wounded in the first six months of the year. With reporting by Reuters, dpa, and AFP Foreign ministers from four Indo-Pacific nations known as the Quad group are gathering in Tokyo on Tuesday for talks that Japan hopes will increase their involvement in a regional initiative called Free and Open Indo-Pacific aimed at countering Chinas growing assertiveness. The meeting the first in-person talks among the foreign ministers since the coronavirus pandemic broke out brings together US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi. Japanese officials say they will discuss the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, as well as the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) initiative for greater security and economic cooperation that Japan and the US have been pushing to bring together like-minded countries that share concerns about Chinas growing assertiveness and influence. On his way to Tokyo, Pompeo told reporters that the four countries hope to have some significant achievements at the meeting, but did not elaborate. The talks come weeks ahead of the US presidential election and amid escalating tensions between the US and China over the virus, trade, technology, Hong Kong, Taiwan and human rights. Pompeo is attending the Quad meeting, though he canceled subsequent planned visits to South Korea and Mongolia after President Donald Trump was hospitalized with the coronavirus. The talks follow a recent flareup in tensions between China and India over their disputed Himalayan border. Relations between Australia and China have also deteriorated in recent months. Japan, meanwhile, is concerned about Chinas claim to the Japanese-controlled Senkaku Islands, called Diaoyu in China, in the East China Sea. Japan also considers Chinas growing military activity to be a security threat. Japans annual defense policy paper in July accused China of unilaterally changing the status quo in the South China Sea, where it has built and militarized manmade islands and is assertively pressing its claim to virtually all of the seas key fisheries and waterways. New Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga will make his in-person diplomatic debut when he attends part of the Quad meeting. He will also hold separate talks with Pompeo on deepening the Japan-US alliance and the FOIP. The world is possibly becoming even more unpredictable and uncontrollable due to heightening selfish nationalism and growing tension between the US and China, Suga said in an interview with Japanese media on Monday. He said he will pursue diplomacy that is based on the Japan-US alliance as a cornerstone and strategically promote the FOIP, while establishing stable relations with neighbors including China and Russia. He said he also plans to promote the FOIP during a planned visit to Southeast Asia later this month. Suga replaced Shinzo Abe, who resigned due to poor health, on Sept. 16, pledging to carry on Abes hawkish diplomacy and security policies. Abe has been a driving force behind FOIP. Japan sees it as crucial to have access to sea lanes all the way to Middle East, a key source of oil for the resource-poor island nation. Suga, a former chief Cabinet secretary, has little experience in diplomacy. Balancing between the US, Japans main security ally, and China, its top trading partner, will be tough, analysts say. The challenges of Japan-US relations are not in themselves, but in where Japan stands when US-China disputes intensify, said Yasushi Watanabe, an expert on US diplomacy at Japans Keio University. It would be best for Japan to take a pragmatic approach to China while maintaining the Japan-US alliance as a cornerstone, he said. And it is indispensable for Japan to strengthen cooperation with the EU, Britain, Australia and ASEAN. Japan hopes to regularize the Quad foreign ministers talks and broaden their cooperation with other countries. That would be a major challenge for the Quad, said Jeff Kingston, director of Asian studies at Temple University Japan. A shared threat perception of China does not mean shared views on what to do and if its possible to build the Quad into something along the lines of NATO, he said. The US and Australia would favor the idea, but Japan and India are ambivalent and so is ASEAN, he said. Transforming the Quad into a collective security organization targeting China forces governments to choose sides. Beijing has generated an arc of anxiety in Asia but there is a preference for dialogue and negotiations, not saber rattling. Dan Rather has seen a lot. After starting his journalistic career in the early 1950s with the Associated Press in his home state of Texas, he switched to what was rapidly becoming the most powerful medium of its day - television. Over the the decades he has witnessed a lot of history, and reported on many of his generations most seminal episodes - the assassination of John F Kennedy, the struggle for civil rights in the American South, the presidency of Richard Nixon, and the nations struggle to dominate the space race. For almost 25 years he was the anchor of the CBS Evening News, making him one of the most recognisable broadcasters on television, when the networks perhaps never had more influence. Yet at the age of 88 - he turns 89 on Halloween - Rather says he has never seen anything like the presidency of Donald Trump. He says the president has trampled over the usual rules observed by those who occupy the office and showed such disdain, Rather thinks the president himself has no respect for the office he holds. The Independent has launched a campaign to defend press freedoms in the United States Journalism Is Not A Crime in the run up to the election and afterwards. It did so after dozens of journalists including one of its own correspondents were arrested by police while covering protests for racial justice that took place this summer that were triggered by the killing by police in Minneapolis of George Floyd, an unarmed African American. The death of the 46-year-old, who was videoed saying he could not breathe as a white officer knelt on his neck for almost nine minutes, was just the latest in a succession of fatal encounters between the police and unarmed people of colour. In a telephone interview with The Independent, conducted barely a month before the election, and as Mr Trump prepared to fly to Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre after testing positive for Covid-19, Rather discussed many of the issues currently confronting the nation. He talked about the challenges for the media in covering the presidency, how the most dangerous night for the media may turn out to be election day, and how he views the campaign of Joe Biden. See below for the full interview: Dan Rather: Donald Trump is 'mean as a wolverine' Q: How do you judge the relationship of Donald Trump and the media compared to other presidents you have seen? A: There's no comparison. There's no comparison to be made. We as a country, as a people or society, have never been through anything like this. And the press has not been through anything like this. And certainly not in my lifetime. The closest would be the Nixon years. However, there are great differences between now and the Nixon time. This is unprecedented. And lets mark that you I are speaking early in October, before the election. And I think Election Day, election evening, in the days following election, may very well put a whole new stress on American institutions in general and the press. Q: What is the impact of Trump demonising the media? A: I think the impact has been devastating on so many levels. Its the damage done to American institutions. Fundamental institutions, the separation of powers, independence of the courts, press freedom. At almost every turn, it's been extremely damaging. There's no president in the history of that country that has [wrought] more havoc both in spirit and in substance, on this experiment of a constitutional republic based on the principles of freedom and democracy, which America has been all these years. There's nothing to compare to it. I want to always try to be careful not to overstate things, but I've come to believe that this has been one of our problems for those of us in the press. That were so worried about possibly overstating things, that we have understated for too long. The Independent employs reporters around the world to bring you truly independent journalism. To support us, please consider a contribution We keep looking for normalcy. What I mean by that is that, okay, now Trump won the election. He's the new president. And there was a high expectation, to say nothing of hope, that as president hed make some efforts to operate within the bounds of the law, but also operate within whats normal for a president. The president would at least make some effort to be president of all the people, not just the people who voted for him. That's just one example. So when I say that the press spent too long, and I include myself in this criticism, too long engaging in false equivalency, and so called both-sideism quote, unquote, and Donald Trump is taking advantage of that. Don't misunderstand me, I think that, particularly in the last year-and-a-half, I think the press has done a better job of saying to itself Look, we have to report on him and who he is, and what he's doing, not what we hoped that hed do and hoped that he would be. And one small example of that would be the so called White House press briefings. We have known for a long time that the so called White House press briefing is not a press briefing at all. It's a propaganda opportunity. And for months, even years, we went through this - the press gathers, the press secretary comes out for what was expected to be a briefing. It's not even designed to be a press briefing. You know, it's filled with outright lies I'm sorry to say, I always hate to use the word lie. But you know, you have to use it because that's what it is - lies, misinformation disinformation, mockery, insults. Q: What are the challenges facing the US media in covering Trump, when he's not just a politician, but also the head of state? How can the media say this person is being dishonest, or hes telling lies repeatedly, and not have readers or viewers which off? A: Well, first of all, I'm really glad you asked the question that way. And I'm smiling, I'm sorry you cant see my smile. Because I sometimes have difficulty getting my fellow Americans to fully understand that in the American president, we have, for better or for worse, combined the head of state with the head of government. An awful lot of Americans, I would say, maybe a majority of Americans, don't fully understand the implications of that. So it is a tradition in the press to try to strike that necessary balance. So when you rise to question the president, or ask a question of the president, youre not just asking for the head of government, as you would be, say, in the UK, and talking to the prime minister. The prime minister's head of government, he's not in state. And the Queen is the head of state, the sovereign is head of state. There is a clear demarcation. So thats the tradition of the American press, and I include myself in this. I was a White House correspondent for 10 years, and I never walked through the gates of the White House, and not think it was a privilege to do so. And you never met anybody who had more respect for the office of the president of the United States. But what this leads to, and I don't mean to talk your question to death, but obviously, this is a question that I really feel strongly about. That, when it comes to, for example, asking questions of the president, as an American journalist you want to have great respect for the office, great respect that hes this combination of head of state and head of government. But if you aren't careful, it can lapse over into something else. What I tried to remind myself, after I've been there a while, is Yes, he's president of the United States. He's head of government and head of state, but he is not the descendent of a Sun God. He's another person who's been given the highest honour that we can bestow on any person by making him president. Dan Rather covered the presidency of Richard Nixon (Getty) Now, that was the tradition, its long been the tradition of journalists dealing with the president. Along comes Donald Trump, unprecedented, in that he himself has no respect to the office. And by treating president Trump in a, quote, normal way, and stretching this respect to the office, overlapping with respect to the person, that helps him with his lies, and helps him with his this cheating, with all these difficult words weve already used. All of this has helped him and the press, including myself, has been far too slow to wake up to the fact and saying, you know, the president cannot and should not be treated [so.] The press should not turn itself into contortions, trying to be, quote, fair, unquote, to the president. And this is something you're going to have to continue struggling with. The American press may have its most severe test of the Trump presidency yet, and thats saying a lot, on election day, election night, in the days following. Because the president is making it really crystal clear that if he can make the vote appear fraudulent, and hes already laying the groundwork. And in some press quarters in America this is being pointed out, but I think not enough. Look, he's telling you. He's not even hiding it, through intimidation, manipulation He said that if the election shows that he is losing, he plans to discredit it. He's already discrediting it. This is really serious in a country such as ours, to have a leader do that. And we've never had anyone do it before. Q: In 2002 you said patriotism had run amok and was in danger of trampling the media in the aftermath of 9/11. And I think you're making this point now - that the media needs to stand back and be objective and tell the truth, call out lies. But isn't there a danger that if you do that, and you lose your readers, you lose your audience, we will become even more in our silos? So if you like the president, you'll watch Fox News. If you despise him, you'll watch MSNBC. If youre somewhere in the middle, well okay, good luck. Where is that sort of voice that you were, speaking to the nation, speaking to all Americans, in the 60s and 70s? We don't have that, right? A: Well, the danger is real. But for journalists, what we have to do, is fear not. Because this is a real peril for us to begin to think about [if] we're going to tailor our coverage to what we think the audience wants to hear. And were so afraid You cant be operating from a place based out of fear. But if you think that to speak the truth, to say what is the truth, if I find the facts, analyse the facts, connect the dots, and get as close to the truth as is humanly possible, which is our goal, if I do that, and speak the truth, then I'm going to lose viewers or readers or listeners, once you begin to follow that line of reasoning, to be afraid to do what you know you should do, then youve done something to yourself and youve done something to your fellow citizens. Frankly, I think that journalists who are going to think about it are going to say to themselves, I'm going to do the work, Im going to do it as well as I can, Im going to get as close to the truth as I can. And the chips will have to fall where they may. But I'm not suggesting that this is not something that journalists have to struggle with. It's all well and good for me. Let's face it, you know, I'll be 89 years old coming up here fairly soon. I'm on the backside now. So I recognise that is very easy for me to say these things. And if you're a reporter for, you know, a medium sized market newspaper or working in a local television station or radio station, it's a whole lot more difficult to hold to these principles. But with as much humility as I could muster, I say that. Fear not. Do the work. Do what's compatible with your professional standards and your conscience and hope for the best. That's pretty much where we are. Q: How do you think Mr Biden is doing in terms of challenging Mr Trump on these key issues - Covid, the economy, racial justice? A: Well, he's doing the best he can, and I'm pausing only because Ive known vice president Biden for a long time. I'm not a close friend of his, I'm not close to him. But I've covered him over the whole span of his career. His strength is that he is a decent person and a decently-intending person. And he has other strengths as as a political candidate. But he is not a strong orator. He is not that kind of politician who commands every landscape he occupies. In the face of a candidate such as Donald Trump, he has some disadvantages. But here we are, what, about a month from the election? And by any reasonable analysis youd have to say hes doing pretty well up to now. Q: Do you think he has a chance of winning? Do you think he's going to win? A: I learned a long time ago that he who lives by the crystal ball, tends to eat a lot of broken glass. And I have eaten more than my share, so I am not gong to make a projection. I will say this that Donald Trump can win. There is a path, the same path he used in 2016. Biden clearly leads at this point. But theres the double problem. One, can he, does he, get enough Democratic voters to the polls, because he, he being Biden, may have to win overwhelmingly in order to take office. Because if its close he may never get anything and never get into office. I'm sorry to say that, but there is the prospect. So I just want to caution. I think Biden leads at the moment, as best I can make out. But neither he nor any other Democrat or anybody else can kid themselves, that Donald Trump has a very solid, loyal base. And there is a path by which he can win. Q: What do you think that Mr Trump having coronavirus tells us about the way he conducts himself? A: Honestly, I don't know what to think about it. Certainly, first of all, there's a certain inevitability. When you insist on doing what he was doing, not wearing a mask and going into large crowds of people, theres a certain inevitability. Will it change the dynamic of the race? It could change the dynamic of the race if he has difficulty recovering. Can he or will he go into a second second so-called debate. I want to put debate in quotation marks, two more of these joint appearances, whatever you want to call them. It's almost a sacrilege to call them a debate. But to answer your question we don't know enough yet to know how serious this is, and if it is serious it has the potential to change the dynamic for him, [to] the advantage of Trump, by once again changing the conversation. He desperately needed to change the narrative of the race, in the wake of the disastrous joint appearance with him and Biden. And the narrative of the campaign was Trump had a very bad debate performance. Biden did pretty well. So this changes the subject. It's just too early. A lot depends on how seriously he's affected. But it does have the potential of changing the dynamic with the race. The Independent employs reporters around the world to bring you truly independent journalism. To support us, please consider a contribution Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 17:24:09|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close by Burak Akinci ANKARA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- After a troubled period marked by mutual distrust, the European Union and Turkey have a window of opportunity to put their relations back on track and move forward on a positive agenda, Turkish analysts said. Last Friday, European leaders agreed during a summit to tacitly warn Turkey of sanctions regarding longstanding disputes with NATO partner Greece over drilling rights in East Mediterranean which has caused serious regional tension in the last three months. But the leaders also announced the resumption of a "positive agenda," including enhanced trade ties under a modernized customs union, and further cooperation with Turkey on migration and refugee issues. An easing of visa restrictions for Turkish citizens in the EU, insistently requested by Ankara, has also been mentioned. Ankara criticized some wording of the text, especially on the threat of sanctions, but generally the mood is positive regarding a new chapter to be opened in ties between Turkey and the EU, analysts argued. "A much-anticipated EU summit on the recent escalation in the Eastern Mediterranean and ties with Turkey has actually opened a new window of opportunity between Turkey and the EU, and between Turkey and Greece," foreign policy analyst Serkan Demirtas told Xinhua. Demirtas, who is also the Ankara bureau chief of Hurriyet Daily News, said that the creation of a positive agenda in line with the proposals that the EU commission submits in the coming weeks "will be of vital importance as that will shed light on the quality of the Turkey-EU dialogue." Turkey has been knocking on the European bloc's door for over 40 years and is currently a candidate country. However, accession talks have been frozen for several years because of some member countries' opposition to a Turkish membership and the EU's claim that Turkey failed to adopt its key political criteria. "There is a new dialogue in process, and the success of this dialogue will be of crucial significance, as the last few years have shown that the lack of a concrete agenda and mutual projects has further eroded the two sides' relationship," Demirtas added. Tensions had escalated in recent months between Greece and Turkey, and between Cyprus and Turkey. A de-confliction mechanism is currently at work at NATO between Athens and Ankara as EU powerhouse Germany has led a diplomatic push for broader dialogue. A European diplomatic source in Ankara said on condition of anonymity that the union succeeded in a "balancing act confronting Turkey not only with rejection, but also with dialogue options." The source remarked that over 50 percent of Turkey's foreign direct investment comes from the EU, and both remain deeply intertwined economically and need each other. According to observers, Germany's rotating EU presidency has provided a strong basis for a better dialogue with Ankara, building trust between parties. Following the Brussels summit, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said that EU wants to have constructive dialogue and a positive agenda with Turkey. "EU summit is a 'window of opportunity' to closely cooperate with Turkey. Upcoming talks will focus on modernizing customs union and visa liberalization," Merkel said, adding that the visa liberalization issue will be discussed in December. "EU must keep in mind its long-term strategic interests to support Turkish-Greek dialogue. Portugal, which will take over the presidency in January, ought to follow Germany's footsteps and commit to repairing Europe's relationship with the Turks," Burhanettin Duran, general coordinator of the Political Economy and Social Research Foundation (SETA), said. The analyst added that diplomatic efforts not only de-escalated tensions between Ankara and Athens but also provided a right set of circumstances to mend Turkey-EU relations. Enditem Education Montgomery County Community College will present the spring installment of the interview/talk show program Issues and Insights April 20 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. in Science Center room 214, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The programs will be simulcast to the Colleges West Campus in South Hall room 216, 101 College Drive, Pottstown. Dr. Kolsky will offer a humorous presentation, Carrots, Sticks and Politics: A State of the Nation and the World Message. In this speech, he will provide his interpretation of domestic and international politics and then welcome questions from the audience for discussion. Issues and Insights, is free and open to the public. For information, contact Dr. Thomas Kolsky, professor of political science, at 215-641-6380 or tkolsky@mc3.edu. Montgomery County Community Colleges STEM Scholars Program will host a STEM Jam! open house April 25 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the Advanced Technology Center at the Colleges Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The drop-in event is designed for students interested in learning more about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Activities will include STEM program information and career advising, STEM speakers throughout the day from industry and academia, micro-helicopter and robotics competitive obstacle courses and demonstrations and static models of STEM student and faculty work. For more information about STEM Jam! or STEM programs at MCCC, contact William Brownlowe at wbrownlowe@mc3.edu or 215-641-6644, or Robin Zuhlke at 215-619-7440 or rzuhlke@mc3.edu. Temple Ambler, located at 580 Meetinghouse Road, presents the following events: International Club Global Bazaar April 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. The Ambler Campus International Club invites all students, faculty, staff and the community to celebrate a multitude of diverse cultures, which will be showcased at the organizations Global Bazaar. This family friendly event will highlight cultural traditions and celebrations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, South American, North America and Africa through music, entertainment, food and informative displays developed and presented by students at the Ambler Campus. Young visitors will be provided with passports, which they may get stamped at each country they visit. Prizes will be awarded to world travelers who talk to cultural representatives, answer questions about the countries theyve visited and take part in fun-filled activities designed to help them learn about the rich diversity of cultures found throughout the world. Refreshments will be served. The event is free. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail tuc36466@temple.edu. EarthFest 2011 April 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. More than 75 exhibitors, including the Philadelphia Zoo, The Franklin Institute, the Academy of Natural Sciences, the Elmwood Park Zoo and the Insectarium, will take part in EarthFest 2011. School students of all ages are invited to attend and develop displays of their own. EarthFest partner the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society also offers its Kids Grow Expo, featuring the Junior Flower Show, as part of the event. For more information, call 267-468-8108 or e-mail duffyj@temple.edu. Annual Spring Plant Sale May 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The plant sale an Ambler Campus tradition dating back to the early 1900s will feature woody plants and perennials in portable sizes, hardy trees, shrubs, and vines, native plants that are attractive to wildlife, herbs, and hanging baskets. There will also be numerous special plants for sale to highlight Amblers special anniversary year. Garden books and garden tools will also be available for sale. Students, staff, and volunteers from the Department of Landscape Architecture and Horticulture and the Ambler Arboretum Advisory Committee will be available to answer questions. All proceeds from the Spring Plant Sale will support the Ambler Arboretum Fund and the Pi Alpha Xi National Honor Society. Information: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary. June Homecoming/Louise Bush-Brown Garden Dedication June 5 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. (June Homecoming), Bright Hall Lounge; 2 p.m. (Garden Dedication), Ambler Campus Formal Perennial Gardens. Tickets June Homecoming: Participant $18 per person; Sustainer $25 per person; Benefactor $40 per person. The 2011 June Homecoming, sponsored by the School of Environmental Design Alumni Association, will include the Alumni Association annual meeting and luncheon. June Homecoming will be followed by the formal dedication of Temple University Amblers Formal Perennial Gardens as the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Gardens. During this 100th anniversary of the campus, Temple University Ambler and the Ambler Arboretum of the Temple University is honoring Louise Bush-Browns many contributions to the history of the campus by formally dedicating the gardens in her honor. During the program, campus Executive William Parshall will welcome guests, Ambler Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey will speak about the Bush-Browns and the history of the garden, and an official ribbon cutting will be held for the Louise Bush-Brown Formal Garden. Following the ribbon cutting, guests are invited to take a tour of the gardens, which will wend their way to the Campus Greenhouse for the School of Environmental Designs annual Plant Auction. Information (Garden Dedication): 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Information (June Homecoming): 215-482-0722. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary. Northview Garden Tour and Fundraiser for the Ambler Arboretum June 12 from noon to 5 p.m. Call for reservations. Tickets: $15 per person or $20 at the door. In addition to the gardens of the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University, Arboretum Director Jenny Rose Carey has a garden oasis all her own right in Ambler Northview. Visitors will have the opportunity to take self-guided tours throughout the many gardens, where garden experts will be available to answer questions about the various designs. The Ambler Keystone Chapter of the Womans National Farm and Garden Association will also provide tea and refreshments. All proceeds from the tours will support the Ambler Arboretum of Temple University. Information or to register: 267-468-8001 or judy.shatz@temple.edu. Learn more at www.ambler.temple.edu/anniversary. The Senior Adult Activities Center of Montgomery County, 536 George Street, Norristown, will hold the following events: SAAC Adult Day Care, an alternative to Nursing Home Care is available for information call 610-275-1960 Volunteers are needed for Meals on Wheels Program (call the number above) SAACs Fifth Avenue Boutique opens Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Exercise with Theresa will be held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 1 p.m. Dance class is held every Monday at 10 a.m. Tai Chi is held every Monday at 10 a.m. Yoga is held every Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Line Dancing is held every Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Dancing with Joan is held every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. Sculpture Class is held Wednesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Why Should I Learn Spanish? will be held Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. Generations On-Line computer classes for seniors will be held Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. 4 p.m. computers are available during those hours. Health Living will be held every Tuesday at 1 p.m. Boomer U will hold the following events. Boomer U is located at 45 Forest Avenue, Ambler. Registration & payment is required for all events: 215-619-8863. Pilates Class is held Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. First class is free; please bring a mat. For information call 610-291-5376. Blue Bell School of Dance, 921 Penllyn Blue Bell Pike, Blue Bell, hosts Argentine Tango Classes and a Milonga dance party every Friday evening. Lessons start at 8:30 p.m. followed by dancing at 9:30 p.m. Andrew Conway, master Argentine Tango dancer, instructor and performer and his partner Linda Chase will instruct. All levels welcome and no partner is needed. Refreshments will be served. Fee is $12 per person and includes lesson and dancing. Information: 215-634-1101 or www.amoretango.com. The Montgomery Hospital Medical Center will offer the following classes: Childbirth Education Class- all parents are invited to participate, including those who are delivering at other hospitals. For more information on maternity services or classes, call 610-270-2020. CPR and First Aid Courses are offered for beginners to experiences health care providers. Call 610-270-2313. The Ambler SAAC (Senior Adult Activities Center), located at 45 Forest Ave in Ambler will hold the following events: Tai Chi every Monday and Thursday at 11 a.m. Yoga is every Tuesday at 1 p.m. and Friday at 10:30 a.m. Strength and balance training every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Armchair Aerobics is held every Monday at 10 a.m. Gourmet Weight Wise every Thursday at 12:30. Fitness Center and Pool Room open daily 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The Diabetes Education Center will offer day and evening classes each month. Health insurance pays for diabetes education classes. Preregistration is required. Call 610-270-2301. For Kids & Families The Ambler Kiwanis Club will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt April 26 at 10 a.m. in Ambler Borough Park, located just off of the intersection of Hendricks Street and Valley Brook Road. Members of the Wissahickon Key Club will assist Kiwanians in hiding thousands of wrapped chocolate eggs in a designated area of the park. Also hidden will be plastic colored eggs, which are redeemed for prizes. Elementary school children are separated by age. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation will hold its 21st annual Storybook Egg-Stravaganza April 15 fom 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Upper Dublin Township Building. Toddlers and preschoolers love this annual event where photo opportunities with favorite friends abound! Treasures are collected from UDP&Rs assortment of lifesize cutouts of favorite cartoon characters from Disney, Sesame Street, Nickelodeon and other well-known animation. Children can have their picture taken with Bugsy OHare; bring your own camera. And dont forget a basket for goodies! $7 for UD residents; $12 for non-residents. Pre-register at 215-643-1600 ext. 3443. Splash Week is a free week-long program that teaches children and families basic swimming skills and water safety practices. All YMCA branches will host multiple classes each day from April 11 to 15. For more information, contact the Ambler Area YMCA at 215-628-9950. Healthy Kids Day is April 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The day is filled with fun, engaging and artistic activities that cultivate healthy living as part of the YMCAs larger efforts to help more kids and families become physically active. All activities are free and open to the community. For more information, contact the Ambler YMCA at 215-628-9950. No reservation is required. The Ambler Area YMCA has added several new programs for area youngsters. Classes are held late afternoons or evenings on various weekdays. For more information, visit philaymca.org or call 215-628-9950. Basic Beading: Ages: 10+. Wednesdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. This class will teach you the fundamentals of wiring and stringing along with how color can be used to create unique and vibrant beadwork design. You will create various jewelry including earrings, bracelets, charm pendants and much more! Supplies will be provided. Bringing your own jewelry pliers or tools would be a plus. Messin with the Masters: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 7 to 7:45 p.m. Learn about some of the worlds greatest artists. You will be inspired to create your own Starry Night with oil pastels and tempera paints, a tissue paper painted Monet garden, a Picasso head using scraps of paper, a Georgia OKeeffe clay flower bowl and a Rousseau jungle collage. Super Scientist: Ages: 5-7. Mondays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Well be concocting chemistry experiments such as making slime, mixing potions and having fun with magnet magic. Your budding little scientist will enhance his/her creative thinking and motor skills and to top it off will learn that science can be serious fun. Wacky Junk Art: Ages: 8-12. Thursdays 6 to 6:45 p.m. Why throw it away! Instead join us to make household junk into aliens from outer space, wacky specs, crazy hats, body masks or a recycled train. Globe Trotters: Ages: 4-6. Tuesdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Youre never too young to start thinking globally. Each week, we explore a new country through crafts, games, music, stories and even some taste-testing. A perfect introduction to our great big world! Crazy about Crafts: Ages: 5-7, Thursdays 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. Let your childs creative juices flow with our fun arts and crafts projects each week. Fine motor skills and creative thinking skills will be enhanced with this crafty class. Come out and join the Ambler Area YMCAs Teen and Junior Leaders Club. Participants are given the freedom to plan community service projects year round and truly make a difference in the lives of people in need. Those in Teen and Junior Leaders also attend leadership retreats all along the East Coast three times a year and meet other leaders who are doing the same great work in their respective areas. Dont miss out on this inspiring opportunity. Teen Leaders, ages 13-17, meet every Wednesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Junior Leaders, ages 10-12, will begin in the spring and will meet every Monday. For more information, contact Mike Miles, Teen Director, 215- 628-9950 x 1540 or mmiles@philaymca.org. Did you know that the new Ambler Area YMCA holds childrens birthday parties at its site for members and non members as well. The Ambler Y does all the work from start to finish and birthday parties include a personalized cake, ice cream, beverage and paper products. Parties are held on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and include two party hosts to lead activities, set-up, clean-up and assist with serving. You can have a Splash Party for children ages six to 12 in the new zero depth entry pool with water slide and spray fountains. Up to 25 children have exclusive use of the pool area with 30 minutes in the party room. Sports Parties are offered for kids ages four to 12 with age appropriate activities and games, and sports such as floor hockey, soccer, basketball or dodge ball. Children ages three to five years of age will enjoy parties in the Family Active Center with use of the Moon Bounce and organized activities, such as parachute play and songs. For information, 215-628-9950 ext. 1583. Community Events at the Ambler Y: -YAchievers YMCA Achievers is a developmentally based, extracurricular, educational and team mentoring program designed to help students in grades five through 12 prepare for fulfilled livelihoods in college and beyond. Participation is free and all students in this program receive a free YMCA membership. Registration for the 2009 program begins now. You do not need to be a YMCA member to utilize these special services. Call 215-628-9950 to register. Greater Norristown Art Leagues Childrens Weeklong Summer Art Camps will be held at 800 West Germantown Pike in East Norriton, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday throughout the summer. The cost per session is $125 per student for ages 6 and up. Jo Ann Cooksey Bono teaches an introduction to basic drawing skills and techniques from 10 a.m. until the lunch break each day. In the afternoon sessions, Mary Vogel Lozinak involves the students in hands on projects such as collage, papermaking, T-shirt printing, 3D design and sculpy clay. Fridays Graduation Day includes an art show, awards ceremony and reception for parents, siblings, grandparents and friends. All supplies are included. Students provide their own lunch. A refrigerator is available and the building is air-conditioned. This is the 15th year to run this successful program. Both instructors are professional artists with State Police and Child Abuse Clearances. To register, call Jo Ann at 610-279-1008, or register on-line at www.gnal.org. Health Dresher Physical Therapy is hosting an interactive seminar discussing its Golf Assessment Progam April 30 from 10 a.m. to noon at Dresher Physical Therapy, 1075 Virginia Drive, Suite 200, Fort Washington. Physical therapist Chris Miller, certified through the Titleist Performance Institute, will discuss why your body may be the most important piece of golf equipment you invest in and how this can drastically improve your game. $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Call 215-619-4545 to reserve your spot. The Chestnut Hill Center for Enrichment, Center on the Hill and Chestnut Hill Hospital will host a Senior Health and Resource Fair April 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chestnut Hill Presbyterian Church, 8855 Germantown Ave. The event is free. For more information, call 215-248-0180 or e-mail chseniors@cavtel.net. The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is hosting Help Yourself to Health, a new six-week workshop for older adults with ongoing health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, anxiety, heart disease and others. The free workshop will take place at the Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center, 45 Forest Ave. on six Thursdays, May 12 through June 16 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Although there is no charge to participate, registration is required. To register, call 215-619-8863. The Ambler Senior Adult Activities Center is sponsoring an eight-week program called A Matter of Balance: Managing Concerns About Falls. Presented by the Montgomery County Health Department, this workshop will be held on Tuesdays, May 3 to June 21 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ambler Center, 45 Forest Ave. If you pre-register by April 27, the fee is only $5! Registration at the first class is $10. (Checks should be payable to SAAC and will benefit our Meals on Wheels program that serves homebound seniors.) A workbook will be provided and refreshments will be served. Call 215-619-8863 to register or for more information. Fort Washington Wellness Center classes are ongoing. There are several offered during lunch or right after work, for your convenience: Boot Camp from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday; Zumba is MWF from 11 a.m. to noon and Friday at 4 p.m.; there are 25 cycling classes; Ashtanga and Vinyasana Yoga and Pilates; and a group Womens Strength Training class M-F from 10 to 11 a.m. Questions, call Cathy DeMarco at 215-641-1245. Following the success of other local area programs, Impact Sports and Upper Dublin Parks and Recreation are delighted to team up again to offer a spring program for the 2011 season! Upper Dublin area children ages 3-5 years old can attend a Sports Program featuring their favorite sports games; soccer, rugby, hockey, track and field, basketball, and more. The program will start on April 27 and run through June 1. Cost for the program is $85 for the six weeks. The classes will be running 12- 1 p.m.; 1- 2 p.m.; 2- 3 p.m. For more info or to register, call Upper Dublin Township on 215 643 1600 or visit their website a http://www.upperdublin.net. Spring Aquatic Programs UDHS Pool: -Summer is just around the corner Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool can help get you into shape! Programs begin in March; preregistration is required. Shallow Water Aerobics Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 8-8:45 p.m., $40R/$50NR. Adult Swim Instructions Two 5-week programs, Wednesday nights, 7-8 p.m., $50R/$60NR -Open Rec Swims are fun for the whole family! Come out on Fridays from 7-9 p.m. or Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. and enjoy use of the pool and diving area. Fridays are offered through June 17; Saturdays are offered March 12-May 21. -Join a growing group of adult lap swimmers and water walkers. Lanes are set aside evenings and weekends for use; lanes are shared. Monday Thursday from 7:30-9:30 p.m.; Fridays from 7-9 p.m. and Saturdays (March 12-May 21) from 1-4 p.m. -Private Swimming & Diving Lessons for ages 3-adult are offered at the UDHS Pool through a partnership with the Upper Dublin Aquatic Club (UDAC). Visit the UDAC website for more information, www.udac.us, and click the link to UDHS Private Lessons. -Looking for local programs for US Masters Swimming (adults) or Water Polo (all ages)? UDAC and UDSD are working together to develop programs that will be offered at the UDHS Pool. Add your name to Interest Lists by emailing slohoefer@upperdublin.net. emails will be sent about clinics and program start dates. Questions about Community Aquatic Programs at the UDHS Pool, group use of the pool or pool rental? Contact Susan Lohoefer, Facility & Community Affairs Manager at slohoefer@upperdublin.net or call 215-643-8800 x8994. SilverSneakers Fitness Program. The Healthyways SilverSneakers Fitness Program is a result-oriented program that enables older adults to take charge of their health. The program is an innovative blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and socially oriented programing. Members of the program are eligible for a free YMCA membership, with use of the pool and exercise equipment, along with customized classes designed for older adults who want to improve their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance. If you are a subscriber to Independence Blue Cross (Personal Choice 65 PPO) or Keystone 65 HMO, Bravo Health, or Health Options Programs (HOP), call the Ambler Area YMCA, 215-628-9950 or Hatboro Area YMCA, 215-674-4545. You can also visit www.silversneakers.com. Zumba Fitness offers Zumba dance/fitness classes at Academy of Dance and Music/BBAD Studio located at 1524 DeKalb Pike in Blue Bell (behind Sherwin Williams). Classes are offered three times a week: Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 8 a.m. For a free trial pass for your first class, email us at info@danceandmusic.biz or call 610-277-2557. For more info, visit our site at www.academyofdanceandmusic.org. Chestnut Hill Health Systems presents the following Health Education Programs: FITNESS CLASSES Golden Yoga: A Breathing, Stretching and Relaxation Class. Fridays, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Lea Auditorium, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. Registration for four classes at a time required. Golden Yoga is Classical Yoga, adapted by the SKY Foundation, to accommodate those who have difficulty getting up and down from the floor. The program includes postures, breathing, relaxation and meditation techniques, all performed while sitting in a chair and standing. Registration required. Call 215-247-3029. Cost: $20 for 4 classes per month. Tai Chi: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 8:30 9:30 a.m. Springfield Residence, 8601 Stenton Ave. Classes, for the novice or beginner/intermediate student, are designed to improve balance, power, posture, coordination, flexibility and mental focus. Slow, gentle movements are modified to most everyones abilities. For more information or to sign up for a free introductory class, call 215-882-2804. Cost: $8 per class/paid monthly. SUPPORT GROUPS Weight Loss Surgery Support Group: Fourth Wednesday of the month, 7-8 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. Join us for a monthly get-together where well share information for those interested in weight loss surgery, learn from guest speakers discussing current news on issues including lifestyle modification, nutrition and exercise and provide ongoing support for those who have completed surgery. Registration required. Call 215-753-2000. Breast Cancer Networking Group: Fourth Tuesday of the month 5:30 7 p.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia. A free, confidential support group for women living with a diagnosis of breast cancer designed to provide a forum for sharing information, feelings and concerns associated with breast cancer. Facilitated by Tish Wakefield, LCSW, Oncology Social Worker. Registration required. To register or for more information, call 215-248-8047. New Moms Support Groups Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. 12 p.m.; contact Jeanine ORourke, MSW or 2:30 4 p.m.; contact Susan Schack, Ph.D Volunteer Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. The Center for Postpartum Depression at Chestnut Hill Hospital is pleased to offer two new support groups to support new moms. Both groups will be run by experienced mental health professionals who really get it when it comes to new motherhood and juggling relationships, extended family, work/family balance and self-care. If you are experiencing new mom challenges that often heighten anxiety and involve hormonally driven depression, join us for an informative and supportive forum to connect with other moms. Infants are welcome. $30 per session (flexible based on need). Registration is required. Call Dr. Schack, 646-265-2484, or Ms. ORourke, 215-206-2931. Man to Man Prostate Cancer Support Group Third Thursday of the month 8-9 a.m. Williams Conference Room, Chestnut Hill Hospital, 8835 Germantown Ave. A networking group for men diagnosed with prostate cancer designed to provide education, support and encouragement. Spouses and partners welcome. Harry M. Baer, MD, Chief, Urology Division, will host Ask the Doctor. Registration required. Call 215-248-8325. Contact the Senior Center by phone 215-248-0180 or email (chseniors@cavtel.net) with your questions about these programs or any of our on-going activities and classes. Holy Redeemer HomeCare and Hospice seeks compassionate and emotionally mature volunteers to provide support to local hospice patients and their families in Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties. Volunteers may also assist with pet therapy and administrative work within the hospice department and are requested to have daytime availability. Hospice patient care volunteers visit with patients in their homes or nursing facilities once a week for two to three hours. They provide emotional support and companionship to patients and family members, assist with errands or provide respite for caregivers. Bereavement volunteers support the families of hospice patients following the loss of a loved one, while administrative volunteers assist with typing, mailings and/or filing. Hospice care workers provide a great service to families and loved ones of hospice patients. Many volunteers also report a great deal of personal satisfaction as a result of their services. Patient care and bereavement volunteers complete an application and attend an 18-hour volunteer training program that covers the medical, psychological and spiritual aspects of hospice volunteering. Day and evening training programs are offered. To sign up for volunteer opportunities in Pennsylvania, contact Holy Redeemer Volunteer Coordinator Jean Francis at 215-698-3737 or email jfrancis@holyredeemer.com. Librarytalk Upper Dublin Public Library, 805 Loch Alsh Avenue, Ft. Washington, 215-628-8744 www.upperdublinlibrary.org APRIL CHILDRENS PROGRAMS: Storytimes: Please register in the library. o Wee Ones: 0 to 23 months Thursdays and Fridays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. o Tiny Tots: age 2. Wednesdays 10:30 to 10:50 a.m. and Fridays 11 to 11:20 a.m. o Jr. Book Lovers: ages 3 to 6. Tuesdays 10:30 to 11 a.m. o Bedtime Storytimes: 7 to 7:30 p.m. April 20 and 27. Wear your jammies, bring your teddy & hear Miss Barbara read bedtime stories! For ages 3 to 6. APRIL TEEN PROGRAMS: North Hills Library Teens April 28 from 4 to 6 p.m. Movie Matinee APRIL UDPL ADULT PROGRAMS: NEW! ESL Conversation Group. Tuesdays from 7 to 8 p.m. Interested in practicing your English in a safe and caring environment? Come to our conversation group and improve your skills! Please register with Kay Klocko at 215-628-8744 or kklocko@mclinc.org. One-on-One Computer Mentoring. Get personalized assistance from experienced computer volunteers! Sign-up for a one-hour session. Limit one session per month. Please register contact info above. Book Groups Please register with Kay Klocko 215-628-8744. o Daytimers: April 21 at 1:30 p.m. Tired of book groups where you all read the same book? Read any fiction or non-fiction book on this months theme: Explorers. Please register. Meetings: Annual Meeting of the Friends of UDPL: April 14 at 1 p.m. Board of Directors: April 20 at 7 p.m. Blue Bell Library www.wvpl.org Upcoming Events: The Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 650 Skippack Pike (Route 73) in Blue Bell, is diagonally across from the Blue Bell Inn. Call 215-643-1320 or visit their website at www.wvpl.org. For children and teens at Blue Bell: * Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian. * Mondays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages. * Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages. * Fridays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages. * Family Movies, new releases, second Saturdays of the month at 1:30 p.m. * May 14 Despicable Me * June 11 Alpha and Omega * Special Events * April watch for date of spring/Easter events * April 14 at 4:30 p.m. Junior Lego Club for children ages 3 through 5. Parents and caregivers need to stay with children. * April 14 at 7 p.m. Jeopardy for ages 11 to 18. Test your book and library knowledge for prizes. Sign up to be a contestant. No sign up to be in the audience. Snacks provided. * April 16 at 1 p.m. Adult Mystery Book Group discussing The Beekeepers Apprentice by Laurie King. * April 16 at 1:30 p.m. Childrens event for One Book, Every Young Child celebration. Story and craft for book Whose Shoes? * April 19 at 7 p.m. and April 26 at 1:30 p.m.- Adult book group discusses The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester. Group led by Adam Button. * April 30 through May 3 Friends book sale with about 10,000 items for sale for children, teens and adults. * May sign up for Science in the Summer * June sign up for Enrichment Programs for Elementary-Age children * June sign up for Summer Reading, all ages For adults at Blue Bell: * Daytime Book Discussion Group fourth Tuesday, Jan April at 1:30 p.m. * April 26 The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester * Night-time Book Discussion Group third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. o April 19 The Professor and the Madman by Simon Winchester * Art Series with Dr. Sheldon Weintraub, docent at The Barnes and speaker at local colleges o April 27 at 2 p.m. The Art of Looking at Art-Is She Nude or Is She Naked? *Mystery Book Discussion Group, third Saturday of the month at 1 p.m.; new mystery theme each month; www.wvpl.org/programs * Yoga on Mondays at 1:30 p.m. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop-in class. * Tai Chi on Mondays at 3 p.m. with Dr. Kurt Findeisen. $20 for eight classes; $5 per drop in class. * Philadelphia Museum of Art presents class on their Marc Chagall exhibit, April 13 at 2 p.m. * Giant Book Sale, April 29 May 3 o Starts with almost 10,000 items for children and adults! o Held during library hours. o Preview for members of the Friends of the Library, April 28 at 7 p.m. o Join the Friends and attend the preview sale. Modest fee to join. * Blooms at Blue Bell Gardening Series o May 11 at 1 p.m. Summer Bulbs by PA Horticultural Society * Knitting group Mondays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Work on your project or observe and learn. The groups continue year-round in the community room. * Socrates Cafe discussion group every Monday at 7 p.m. You pick the topic to discuss each week. No sign-up, nothing to read. * Bridge every Friday at 12:30 p.m. New players welcome. * Mah Jong every Wednesday at 1 p.m. New players welcome. *Chess every Wednesday at 7p.m. for adults and teens 14 and older. * Movie Matinee showing recent releases every Thursday at 2 p.m. April 14: Maos Last Dancer; April 21: Welcome to the Rileys; April 28: Conviction; May 5: Inception; May 12: Inside Job; May 19 The Kings Speech; May 26 The Fighter; June 2 Rabbit Hole; June 9 Black Swan; June 16 127 Hours * Ongoing like-new, year-round book sale for adults & children during library hours * Library opening at 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday! Ambler Library, a branch of the Wissahickon Valley Public Library, 209 Race St., 215-646-1072. www.wvpl.org. All the following events occur at the Ambler Library. * Story times with guitar music by Miss Michelle, the singing librarian. * Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. for all ages. * Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. for all ages. * For adults: * Beading Group meets the first and third Monday of every month at 1 p.m. Work on your own projects or come to watch and learn. * Free Family History Lookup with Connie Briggs. Email Connie for an appointment at the Ambler Library. conniebriggs@comcast.net * Special Events: * April 14 at 1:30 p.m. Book Group discusses Skeletons at the Feast by Chris Bohjalian. * April 19 at 7 p.m. Travel to Paris with world traveler Harry Balin. Tea and scones at 6:30 p.m. * April 21 at 7 p.m. Art with Sara for children in fourth through seventh grades. *May 2 at 6:30 p.m. Discuss the movie Lone Star with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time. *May 10 Robert Capucci discusses Art into Fashion. Tea and scones served at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m. *May 12 at 1:30p.m. Book Group discusses The Imperfectionists by Tom Rachman. *May 17 Tour the gardens of Devon and Southwest England with Lois McMullen. Tea and Scones at 6:30 p.m. Program at 7 p.m. *June 13 at 6:30 p.m. Discuss the movie Blade Runner with Temple Professor Lisa Hawkins. Watch the movie ahead of time. Meetings and Lectures The Unisys Blue Bell Retiree Group will meet in the Church on the Mall in the Plymouth Meeting Mall April 14 at 1:30 p.m. Kathy Sacket Young, director/trainer with the North Penn YMCA, will speak on Keeping Fit in Retirement. For more information, contact Membership Committee Chairperson Jerry Feldscher at 610-275-3538 or President Al Rollin at 215-368-4833. The next FWBA meeting will be April 28 at the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m.; meeting from noon to 1 p.m. Leon Singletary, Principal, First Contact HR and FWBA Executive Board, will present: Social Media: How to Use It To Get More Business. Lunch is provided courtesy of the Hilton Garden Inn Fort Washington. Members are welcome to bring a guest. An RSVP is requested by return email or 215-628-0313. Big Brothers Big Sisters Southeastern PA is hosting a information sessions over the next few weeks on how to become a Big Brother. The information sessions will take place: April 16 at noon, April 19 at 8 a.m. and April 28 at 6 p.m. All sessions will be held at the groups Norristown Office,t 530 DeKalb St., Norristown. For more information, call 610-277-2200. The North Penn Chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) normally meets on the third Tuesday of each month from now until May. Meetings are held at the William Penn Inn on Route 202 and Sumneytown Pike, Upper Gwynedd, PA. Social hour starts at 5:30 p.m., dinner is served at 6:30 p.m., and the technical program begins at 7 p.m. Cost with reservation is $28 for members. Members without reservations and guests pay $30. Students with reservations pay $15. Reservations may be made by noon on the Monday preceding the meeting by phoning 215-371-1854 or emailing the reservation to northpennima@yahoo.com northpennima@yahoo.com. Information about the North Penn Chapter is available at http://northpenn.imanet.org/. LeTip, a professional organization of men and women who are dedicated to the highest standards of competence and service meets every Tuesday at Cedar Brook Country Club, 180 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell at 7 a.m. -meeting officially starts at 7:16 a.m. and ends at 8:31 a.m. Our purpose is the exchange of business tips, leads, and referrals. Each business category is represented by one member and conflicts of interest are disallowed. Guests are welcome to visit any of our breakfast meetings. Every third Thursday of month, Sunrise Assisted Living of Blue Bell (795 Penllyn Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422, 215-619-2777) serves as a satellite site to 148th Legislative district PA congressman Mike Gerber from 10 a.m. to noon. Stop by for help needed with things such as disability placards and license plates, vehicle registration, utilities issues, birth/death certificates,property tax/rent rebates, etc. Notary services arranged by appointment. The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is an action-oriented organization dedicated to promoting its members and the economic health of eastern Montgomery county. The Chamber is committed to serving as a catalyst by uniting business, community agencies, government and education to make our county a great place to live and work. For information, call 215-887-5122 or visit www.emccc.org. Do you have a fear of public speaking? Blue Bell Toastmasters Club can help. We meet from 7 to 9 p.m., on the second and fourth Tuesday at the Marriott Courtyard, located on Route 202, directly across from the Montgomeryville Mall. Learn how to improve communication and leadership skills in a friendly and supportive environment. Guests are welcome. Admission fee: $5. For more info, visit www.bbtoast.org. The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will hold the following meetings (for reservations to any of the following, email info@PennSuburban.org) -Breakfast News Network, 7:30-8:45 a.m. at Normandy Farm Hotel (1401 Morris Road, Blue Bell, PA 19422) $15 members, includes full buffet breakfast. Join us for a networking program at Normandy Farm Hotel every Thursday morning for breakfast, business news, informative speakers, and plenty of networking. The cost includes a full breakfast buffet. Copies of the business cards will be made available to those who would like them. The BNI, Fort Washington Chapter meets every Monday at The Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Pennsylvania Ave., Fort Washington for a networking meeting. Meetings are from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Visitors are welcome. The only cost to attend is the cost of your meal. For information or a reservation to attend, please call Luanne Cram at 215-947-7784, or visit our Internet site at: http://www.BNIDVR.Com and click on the menu item Find a Chapter. For the past seven years, people have enjoyed participating in WVWAs Adopt-a-Tree program. Individuals can support the Association in its reforestation efforts by purchasing native trees to be planted. Supporters can plant their adopted tree or have WVWA volunteers will plant it. Trees cost $30 each. If you would like to volunteer or purchase a tree(s), please contact: Bob Adams at Bob@wvwa.org or call: 215-646-8866 for more information. Check www.WVWA.org for directions and maps. Sustainable Upper Dublin, http://sustainableupperdublin.org, meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m., at the Upper Dublin Township Building, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington, PA 19034. Please send any questions to suec@sustainableupperdublin.org or call 610-996-6316. To learn more about Sustainable Upper Dublin, view or join the discussion at http://googlegroups.com/group/sustainableupperdublin. Special Events The Mattie N. Dixon Community Cupboard will hold its first nutrition class April 19 at 10 a.m. at the Community Cupboard, 150 N. Main St., Ambler. Lynne Sinclair, a nutritionist from Abington Memorial Hospital specializing in diabetic nutrition, will conduct the class. Topics will include healthy eating, beneficial foods, recipes, making meals with every day foods, and how to use unfamiliar produce. A healthy snack will be provided.The class is is open to all residents in Montgomery County. The Historical Society of Fort Washington presents The History of Conshohocken April 19 at 8 p.m. at the Clifton House, 473 Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington. Jack Coll will present an illustrated program on the history of the Borough of Conshohocken. Coll is a longtime resident of Conshohocken and a member of the Conshohocken Historical Society. He is co-author with his son, Brian, of the Arcadia Then and Now Series book Conshohocken. He has also done books Conshohocken and West Conshohocken Sports and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Italian Feast. He has taken many photos for the Conshohocken Record and the Norristown Times Herald. This program is free. Refreshments will be served. For additional information, call 215-646-6065. Taste of the White House Soiree featuring former White House Chef Walter Scheib will take place April 29 at 6 p.m. at Manufacturers Golf & Country Club in Fort Washington to celebrate HealthLinks 10th anniversary and honor its founders, the Eugene Jackson Family. The evening will heat up with a Chef Meet & Greet, followed by a specially selected presidential menu. Gala tickets are $150 per person. Proceeds benefit HealthLink, a free clinic providing compassionate, quality medical and dental care to uninsured, working adults in Bucks and Montgomery counties who fall in between the health care cracks. Go to http://tasteofthewhitehouse.charityhappenings.org to make reservations online or lend support through sponsorship. For event information, call 267-699-0124 or email jmarushak@healthlinkmedical.org. The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association will hold an open house at the Evans-Mumbower Mill April 17 from 1 to 4 p.m. The Mill is at the corner of Swedesford and Township Line Roads in Upper Gwynedd. The open house is free but donations are welcome. For more information, call 215-646-8866 o email info@wvwa.org. The Eastern Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce will host Breakfast With Your County Commissioners and State Representatives April 21 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Fort Washington, 432 W. Pennasylvania Ave. Commissioners: James R. Matthews (Chairman), Joseph M. Hoeffel (Vice Chair), State Representatives: Todd Stephens (District 151) and Josh Shapiro (District 153). Register onlineat www.emccc.org. $10 for EMCCC member; $20 for non-members. Upper Dublins Districtwide Allied Art Show will be held April 27 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. in the Upper Dublin High School Athletic Complex. The Rev. Alfred Muli, chaplain at Fort Washington Estates, will be the featured speaker at the Kiwanis sponsored breakfast observing the National Day of Prayer May 5 at 7 a.m. at the William Penn Inn. The breakfast is open to the public ($15). Reservations can be made by calling 215-646-4356 or by emailing georgesaurman@Juno.com. The Upper Dublin Shade Tree Commission invites people to participate in its spring bare root planting events, sponsored in part by Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Friends of Robbins Park. On April 9, zix trees will be planted at the Evelyn B. Wright Park & Community Pool, 401 Logan Ave., North Hills, at 9 a.m., followed by the planting of 10 trees at Sheeleigh Park, Loch Alsh Avenue and Douglas Street, Ambler, at 10:15 a.m. On April 29, students from Upper Dublin High School will join the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society to plant 16 trees in Robbins Park, Butler Pike and Meetinghouse Road, Ambler, to help launch the societys Million Trees campaign. This event will occur in conjunction with Temple Amblers EarthFest. Experienced tree-tenders are sought to assist the students. For more information,contact Ron Ayres at 215-653-0421 or 215-483-4348. The Friends of the Wissahickon and the Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association are teaming up once again to clean the Wissahickon Creek from top to bottom April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon. This spring marks the 41st anniversary of Wissahickon Valley Watershed Associations annual Creek Clean Up, and the second year that FOW has teamed up with WVWA. Volunteers of all ages will clean the creek, the surrounding trails and the many tributaries of the Wissahickon Creek. Armed with bags, volunteers will be assigned to sections of the creek. Following the clean up, all volunteers are invited to WVWAs Talkin Trash picnic in Fort Washington State Park, with food provided by Whole Foods Market of North Wales. The pavilion is located on Mill Road in Flourtown. To help out in Montgomery County, all volunteers must be pre-assigned a section of the Wissahickon Creek to clean. Please contact Bob Adams, WVWA director of stewardship, at 215-646-8866 ext. 14 or bob@wvwa.org. To work with the Friends of the Wissahickon in Philadelphia, meet at the pavilion along Forbidden Drive, a short distance south of the intersection of Forbidden Drive and Northwestern Avenue. Limited parking is available along Northwestern Avenue and other nearby streets. Volunteers are encouraged to bike or carpool to the event. To participate, register at www.fow.org. Contact Kevin Groves with questions at 215-247-0417 ext. 105 or groves@fow.org. Montgomery County Community Colleges International Club invites the community to the second annual International Festival April 20 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Central Campus, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The rain date is April 26. The International Club will transform the outside quad area into multicultural celebration with various performances by dancers, singers and musicians. Artists will share their artwork at various display tables. Activities include games, raffles, Easter egg decorating and henna tattoos. Students will have samples of international cuisine at tables representing different countries and will serve food from various local ethnic restaurants. Throughout the evening, volunteers will accept donations and will raffle gift baskets and prizes to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity. Donations of food, international clothes and prizes are needed. Volunteers, including artists and performers, are welcome. For more information or to sponsor an activity, contact Gillian Nel, International Club president, at gnel9277@students.mc3.edu or 267-974-0163. The Arts and Humanities Division at Montgomery County Community College is partnering with the Philadelphia Writers Conference to host Memoirs Matter: How Life Stories (Including Yours) Can Transform Your Relationship to Literature April 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. in Advanced Technology Center room 101, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell. The event is free and open to the public. In the first part of this two-hour seminar, professor and author Robert Waxler will explain how writing his two memoirs affected his life as well as his relationship to literature. In the second part, blogger and workshop leader Jerry Waxler will present a sequence of steps to help writers find their own story. For information, contact Dana Resente at dresente@mc3.edu. The Maple Glen Garden Club will hold its fourth annual Plant Sale on May 7 from 8 to 11 a.m. Perennials, shrubs, vegetables and native plants grown by the club members will be sold. The club uses the plant sale proceeds to fund community projects, a college scholarship and community plantings. The sale will be held in the 500 block of Coach Road, Horsham, as part of a neighborhood garage sale. Plants will be sold at bargain prices. For more information, email MapleGlenGardenClub@gmail.com. The Relay for Life Craft Show is looking for local crafters to participate in show, which will be May 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Wissahickon High School track, 521 Houston Road, Ambler. There is a $10 entry fee, and 20 percent of sales are donated to the American Cancer Society. Participants will receive a 6-foot table under a tent. For information, contact Joanne at joannescoles@comcast.net or Mindy at mcamsilver@comcast.net. Spring House Estates is hosting its annual book fair on April 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. and April 9 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Included will be hardback and paperback used books. Spring House Estates is located at 728 Norristown Road, Lower Gwynedd. The PennSuburban Chamber of Commerce will present the Penn Suburban/Hatfield Joint Business Card Exchange April 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Univest Bank Lansdale Area Financial Service Center, 120 Forty Foot Road, Hatfield. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. Join Univest National Bank and Trust Co. for a spring-inspired Business Card Exchange at its newest office in the Hatfield Pointe Shopping Center. Come out and meet members of Univests executive management team while enjoying fine food and beverages. 13th Annual Community Reading Day Kick-off Breakfast Get Together April 26 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the North Wales Area Library, 233 Swartley St., North Wales. The event is free. To make reservations, visit PennSuburban.org/Events. For more information, contact the chamber office at 215-362-9200 or info@pennsuburban.org. Join presenting sponsor Verizon, chamber staff and fellow members for the Community Reading Day volunteer get together. The Community Reading Day program allows volunteers to read a designated book to second-grade students throughout 38 area public and private schools and present the book as a gift to each class. Even if you are not a volunteer, you are cordially invited to stop by to network, enjoy coffee and pastries. Ambler Mennonite Church is hosting a Spring Craft Show and Flea Market May 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rain date will be May 28. The community is invited to shop the great craft booths, find some gifts and deals, as well as enjoy home baked goods and tasty lunch specials. Childrens activities are planned. All vendors are encouraged to contact the church at 215-643-4876 or AmblerMennonite@verizon.net. Advertising, signage, customer parking and a shuttle to auxiliary parking at nearby lots for vendors will be provided. 10 foot by 10 foot spaces can be rented for $5 each and tables for an additional $5 each. All proceeds from space and table rentals go toward school kits for children around the world. The church is located at the corner of East Mt. Pleasant Avenue and North Spring Garden Street, Ambler. The Wissahickon Valley Watershed Association presents The Life & Times of Aquatic Insects in the Wissahickon Creek April 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. Join WVWA for a hands-on program. RSVP required: www.wvwa.org or 215-646-8866. WVWA member fee: $5 per person / $15 per family. Non-WVWA member fee: $10 per person / $20 per family. The photography exhibition Natures Palette by photo-artist Judy Miller will run March 18 to May 19 at the Art in the Storefront gallery, 41 E. Butler Pike, Ambler. JPRN Networking For People in Transition & People Who Can Help Them Unemployment remains high. JPRN, the Jarrettown Professional Relationship Network can help. Are you trying to network your way to a new job? Do you have expertise or contacts that can help people in transition? Is your company or organization looking for people in the area? This is a free outreach program to support those seeking work, involve people with contacts and networking know how, and involve local companies. Meetings held monthly at Jarrettown United Methodist Church, Limekiln Pike. Pennsylvanias Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) grant program is now open for the 2010-11 heating season. Grants are based on income, family size, type of heating fuel and region. Additional information, such as specific income limits, and applications for LIHEAP grants are available online via the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services (COMPASS) website at www.compass.state.pa.us. Applications are available at most public officals district offices, county assistance offices, local utility companies and community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging or community action agencies. Begin your holiday shopping at Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation! Entertainment books for 2011, Philadelphia North, are now on sale at $30 each. Regal/United Artists movie tickets are on sale for just $7.50 each, and tickets to the Adventure Aquarium, Baltimore Aquarium, and the Philadelphia Zoo are also available. Discounted ski vouchers to area mountains will be arriving in December; call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. RSVP of Montgomery County and the Wissahickon Valley Public Library have partnered again to offer the public their popular free mock interview sessions. The mock interviews are conducted by RSVP volunteers who are retired professionals, some of whom were in hiring positions themselves. Packets of information which include a sample employment application and interviewing tips with mock interview questions are available at the library to pick up prior to a scheduled mock interview or will be sent via email once the interview is scheduled. To schedule your interview, please contact Janis Glusman at RSVP 610-834-1040, ext. 16. The library is also offering a free resume review service. Bring in your current resume and the professional reference staff will assist you with hints and tips on capturing your work history accurately. Registration for Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation summer playgrounds, Camp B.I.G. and Small Folks, X-Zone, and sports camps has began. Register online at www.upperdublin.net/store, or at the UDP&R office, 801 Loch Alsh Avenue, Fort Washington. Call 215-643-1600 x3443 for more information. Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation and Danielles Espresso Cafe presents Mornings at Mondaug Bark Park April 16 and May 21 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Meet fellow dog lovers. These events include complimentary coffee, treats for people and pups and raffles/giveaways. Upper Dublins Annual Spring Flea Market will be held June 4 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reserve a table, or come and shop. Tables are $15 for UD residents, $20 for non-residents. This successful event occurs rain or shine. Refreshments available. Call 215-643-1600 ext. 3443 to register for a table. Regal movie tickets available for purchase at Upper Dublin Township Parks & Recreation. Reduced rate: $7.50 per ticket. Some restrictions apply. Call 215-643-1600 x3443. Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation movie tickets $7.50 Regal Cinemas, United Artist & Edwards Cinemas on sale throughout the year Monday Friday from 9 a.m. 4 p.m. Whitpain Township Parks & Recreation Camp Sign-ups for Stony Creek Day Camp Stony Creek Tracers and Park n Tots. Register on-line at www.whitpaintownship.org OrCome to Township Building with check or Visa MasterCard Monday Friday from 9 a.m. 4 p.m. For additional information call 610.277-2400 ext. 374 Upper Dublin Parks & Recreation offers exciting new programs for the fall: -Returning favorites include UK Elite Petite Soccer, Tiny Dancers, Kiddie Tennis, Fun-nastics, Messy Playtime, Little Chefs, and more. Babysitters Training will be offered in November and December. Continuing Adult Fitness Classes include Cardio Circuit, Core & More, Yoga, Boxing, and Adult G.Y.M. For more information call 215-643-1600 x3443. Register for programs online at www.upperdublin.net/store. Music and Theater The community is invited to a Cantors Concert April 16 at 8 p.m. Congregation Beth Or, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen. Listen and hum-along to the Yiddish, pop tunes and classical music performed by Congregation Beth Ors own Cantor David Green and his special guest, Cantor Irvin Bell, from Temple Beth Israel in Deerfield Beach, Fla. The cantors will be accompanied by Mark Sobol and his Klezmer musicians. Tickets are $18 in advance and $25 at the door. RSVP with payment to Barb Murtha, 239 Welsh Road, Maple Glen, PA 19002, or call 215-646-5806 ext. 220. Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse will host the Jameson Sisters May 14. Doors open at 7:30 pm, performance at 8:00 pm. Gwynedd Friends Coffeehouse is located at the corner of Rte. 202 & Sumneytown Pike, Gwynedd. $5 suggested donation. Light refreshment available at a modest cost. For further information, call 215-393-9576 or visit gwyneddmeeting.org/coffeehouse.html. Celebrate patriotism through song with Gwynedd-Mercy Colleges choir, the Voices of Gwynedd, as it presents Hear America Singing April 15 at 8 p.m. The choir will perform song selections from all over the country, including Georgia on My Mind, New York State of Mind, and a medley including Philadelphia Freedom and Allentown. The performance will end with When the Saints Go Marching In to acknowledge the choirs upcoming tour in New Orleans. Hear America Singing will take place in the Julia Ball Auditorium, located in St. Bernard Hall. Parking is available in lots A, C and D. Admission is free. The Choristers will present Anton Dvoraks Stabat Mater April 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Upper Dublin Lutheran Church in Ambler. The choir will be accompanied by a 41-piece orchestra. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for senior citizens, $10 for students and children are free. Tickets will be sold in advance or at the door. For more information, call 215-542-7871 or visit TheChoristers.org Religious News The Staircase Gallery at Or Hadash: A Reconstructionist Congregation in Fort Washington will feature the work of Emily Ennuat-Lustine. The artist will be showing paintings and graphics inspired by her own personal spiritual journey and quest for meaning. Some of the works to be shown have been inspired by Biblical Psalms and writings. Her work has been shown at Abington Art Center, Cheltenham Arts Center and Old City Gallery of Jewish Art among others. The exhibition is open Friday evenings starting Feb. 18 after Shabbat services. Gallery hours are: Mondays through Thursdays 10-4:30, Fridays 10-3 and following Shabbat Services and Sundays 10-1. The synagogue is located at 190 Camp Hill Road in Fort Washington. For additional information contact the synagogue office at 215-283-0276. Reunions St. Matthews High School Conshohocken Class of 1961 is looking for classmates. For details, contact Greg Marincola at 215-646-2239, 215-740-1296 or gregcola@comcast.net. Olney High School Class of 1971 is Lloking for classmates for a 40th reunion Oct. 28. For details, contact Judy at ohsclassof71@yahoo.com or 215-870-7572. Abington High School Class of 1961 is seeking classmates for a 50-year reunion to be held Oct. 14-15, 2011.Visit the website, www.abington61.com, for details or call 215-947-1779. Overbrook High School class of January 1956 is having a 55 year reunion on May 22, 2011 at the Bala Golf Club in Philadelphia. For information please contact overbrookreunion56@comcast.net Germantown High School Class Of January 1961 is looking for classmates for 50th year reunion to take place in May of 2011. Please contact: 215-362-9148, 856-577-0659 or samdelcomo@comcast.net The June 1961 class of Germantown High School is holding their 50th reunion on May 15, which will be a brunch. For further details please contact Linda Dorfman Alten at lindaalten@yahoo.com or call 215-441-8411. Support New Life Presbyterian Church in Dresher, will host GriefShare, a special seminar and support group which will run on Monday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m., from March 7 through June 6. At each meeting there will be a DVD about the grief process, discussion and reference to a grief workbook. Preregistration is required to secure a place in the group and to purchase a GriefShare notebook (for a one-time fee of $15). The notebook goes along with the 13-week schedule covering such topics as: living with grief, the effects of grief, and stuck in grief. For more information or to register, call: Sandy Elder at 215-884-5149. PUPS (People Understanding Parkinsons) A self-help group for those adjusting to a new diagnosis or dealing with the early stages of Parkinsons Disease. Meets fourth Tuesday of the month from 1 to 2:30 p.m., at Abington Health Center, Schilling Campus, Willowood Building, 2510 Maryland Road, Suite 251, Willow Grove. For more information or to RSVP, contact Lorna at 215-542-2931. The North Penn Visiting Nurse Associations Meals on Wheels program is looking for volunteers to pack or deliver meals to the elderly and infirmed. Meals are packed and delivered mornings, Monday through Friday. You can volunteer for as many days per week or month as you would like. Packaging meals requires approximately 2-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves making sandwiches, packaging food into individual serving containers and packing coolers with the meals. Delivering meals requires approximately 1-1/2 hours of your time each day and involves loading coolers into your car and delivering a route of approximately 10 to 15 stops. The Meals on Wheels program is also in need of emergency, winter-weather volunteers to pack and deliver meals in bad weather. North Penn VNA is located at 51 Medical Campus Drive in Lansdale and delivers meals in the Lansdale, North Wales and Blue Bell areas. For more information or to volunteer, please call Bridget, North Penn VNA Meals on Wheels coordinator at 215-855-8296. Elkins Park Area CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) meets the first Tuesday of every month, 7- 8:30 p.m., at Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital in Elkins Park. For information on CHADD or ADHD, please see our website www.chadd.net/249 or call Claire Noyes at: 215-779-6656. Center for Loss and Bereavement, 3847 Skippack Pike, Skippack (610-222-4110) www.bereavementcenter.org Offers professional counseling for individuals, couples, children and families dealing with issues of loss and bereavement. Six-week adult support groups: Newly forming young adult grief support group every other Wednesday, 7 8:15 p.m. (free of charge); Monthly loss of child support second Mondays, 7-8:15 p.m.; Six-week young loss of spouse/partner Thursdays, 10-11:15 a.m.; Other groups scheduled as interest is shown for suicide loss support, adult loss of parent, motherless daughters, adult loss of sibling, coping with chronic illness and disability and mens loss of spouse. Nellos Corner Family Bereavement program offers peer grief support groups for ages 4 through teen and their caregivers Every other Tuesday or Wednesday (free of charge) Local chapter of Parents of Murdered Children also meets at the Center. Registration required. Call for further information. CHADD is a national organization for children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder, providing education, advocacy and support for individuals and their families with AD/HD. Einstein at Elkins Park Hospital, 60 Township Line Road, Elkins Park, PA 19027, will host children & adults with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder on the First Tuesday of each month 7 8:30 p.m. Free, no childcare provided. The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphias Kehillah of Old York Road is sponsoring a free Caregiver Support Group for individuals who care for an elderly person with cognitive and/or physical impairments. The group meets at SarahCare Adult Day Care Center, 101 Washington Lane, Suite G-6, Jenkintown, Pa., on the first Wednesday of each month. Patty Rich, WASHINGTON - Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden tested negative for the novel coronavirus on Sunday, according to his campaign, his third negative test since he shared a debate stage for more than 90 minutes with President Donald Trump, who has been hospitalized with covid-19, the disease it causes. "Vice President Biden underwent PCR testing for COVID-19 today and COVID-19 was not detected," according to a statement the campaign issued to reporters at 7:16 p.m. Biden's campaign has said he is regularly tested for the coronavirus, but his operation has not previously been providing details about how often he gets tested or what type of test is used. Campaign officials had said they would only release results if Biden tested positive. The campaign reversed Saturday evening and announced that it will release the results of every coronavirus test. Biden told reporters Saturday that he planned to take a test on Sunday morning. Biden is set to travel to Florida on Monday for an NBC town hall. Speaking to CNN on Sunday morning, senior campaign adviser Symone Sanders declined to say why Biden is not being tested daily. "We are being tested regularly," Sanders said. The former vice president took two coronavirus tests on Friday morning after news that Trump had a positive test for the virus, then he traveled to Michigan for a scheduled campaign trip. Biden stood about 13 feet from Trump during the debate, and neither of them wore a mask for the exchange. Biden's team has said that, after consulting with physicians, it does not believe that Biden was in close contact with Trump, which would prompt self-quarantine. "There certainly will be people who wonder if this was close contact or not," a medical expert advising the Biden campaign, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to speak frankly, told The Washington Post on Saturday. "Recognizing that no rules are right 100% of the time, and not everyone will always agree, in this case the vice president was really following the best of the public health guidance." Speaking to Michigan station WOOD-TV on Friday, Biden said his last test had been "three days earlier." "We did [one] this morning," he said Friday to the TV station. "I did to be sure, because I had just taken a test three days earlier or whatever it was and I tested positive - tested negative - in this test I took." He offered additional detail about the two tests he took Friday morning, saying one was performed by "a local hospital in Delaware." The other one, he said, was given to him by a former White House physician "who came up to give me the test," Biden said. "And thank God my wife and I are negative." Special voting for the 2020 election will be held on Tuesday, December 1, the Electoral Commission (EC) has announced. The EC in a statement said the special voting is reserved for voters who as a result of their duties on Election day (December 7) will be unable to vote at the polling stations where they registered on the day of the election. The special voting will cover only security personnel, media personnel and election officials. They are to submit their voter ID card details to the Commission, through the Director I.T. Projects at the Headquarters of the Commission on or before Thursday, October 15, 2020. The results of this special vote will however not be declared until after the general election. ELECTORAL COMMISSION GHANA REQUEST FOR LISTS OF QUALIFIED PERSONS The Electoral Commission wishes to announce for the information of the General Public that pursuant to the Public Elections Regulations, 2020 (C.I 127) Regulation 23, the Commission will compile Special Voting List ahead of Election 2020. The Special Voting will take place on Tuesday 1st December, 2020. Special Voting refers to Voters who as a result of their duties on Election Day are unable to vote at the Polling Stations where they registered on the day of election. The following categories of persons are therefore expected to submit their Voter ID card details to the Commission, through the Director IT Projects at the Headquarters of the Commission on or before Thursday, 15th October, 2020. This will enable the Commission to process their detail to enable them participate in the early voting. Security Personnel Media Personnel who will work outside their jurisdiction on Election Day Election Officials Lists received after 15th of October, 2020 will not be processed. Source: graphic.com.gh Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Chicago is known as the Second City, but when it comes to the size of single-family homes, the Windy City takes the top spot. Among the countrys 20 largest metropolitan areas, Chicago takes first place for having the biggest homes, according to data from a recent study. When it comes to apartment sizes though, the city falls toward the bottom of the list, with its average apartment growing smaller over time. San Marcos Unified School District Superintendent Kevin Holt has announced that he will retire in June, after 14 years with the district. I have had the distinct pleasure of working with many talented people in this district who have given birth to new ideas, faced down obstacles, persevered through challenges, and made San Marcos Unified one of the very best school districts in our state, he said in a statement released Friday. Holt, who took over the superintendents position in 2007, is one of the highest paid superintendents in the state, and the highest paid in San Diego County. In 2015, he earned $378,805 in total compensation, including a salary of $310,495, other compensation of $24,141 and benefits totaling $44,170. Information on his expected pension was not available Monday. Advertisement Before he was hired as superintendent, Holt worked as assistant superintendent of human resources for San Marcos Unified for three years. He previously worked as a teacher and administrator for Long Beach Unified, Norwalk/La Mirada Unified and Temecula school districts. In 2014, San Marcos schools earned high marks in a statewide report card on the education provided to Latino, black and poor students in Californias largest districts. That year the San Marcos Unified School District ranked seventh out of 149 districts and the best out of six in San Diego County to receive District Report Cards from The Education Trust-West, which ranks districts on academic and college readiness among poor and minority students. Holt said he was pleased to oversee the creation of Joli Ann Leichtag Elementary School and Double Peak K8 school, as well as the construction of new facilities for San Marcos High School and San Marcos Elementary. He co-chaired the San Diego County Office of Educations Achievement Gap Task Force and helped form the San Marcos Promise Foundation, which provides scholarships and college admission support to students in the district. deborah.brennan@sduniontribune.com Twitter@deborahsbrennan Members of the White House press pool have immediately reacted to the news of press secretary Kayleigh McEnany testing positive after she spoke to the media on Sunday without wearing a mask. Kayleigh McEnany has repeatedly spoken to reporters without a mask on. She has recklessly endangered lives, New York Magazines Olivia Nuzzi tweeted mere minutes after the news broke. CNNs Jim Acosta shared an image of Ms McEnany speaking to the press outdoors briefly on Sunday without a mask on. In a video of the press event, Ms McEnany was seen approaching reporters with a mask on. She then took off her mask once she reached the microphones to answer questions. It was reported by NBCs Peter Alexander that the press secretary also spoke to the press on Friday without wearing a mask. I wish you a speedy recovery. And I hope the White House will begin to take appropriate precautions on White House grounds, Jonathan Karl, ABC News chief White House correspondent said in response to Ms McEnanys statement. The press secretary testing positive for Covid-19 highlights the false sense of security a negative coronavirus test can give a person after they are exposed to the novel virus. It was announced on Thursday that President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump tested positive for Covid-19 after news broke of senior aide Hope Hicks testing positive. Since then, Ms McEnany and other members of Mr Trump's inner circle, like Vice President Mike Pence, have received negative coronavirus tests. But Ms McEnany said in a statement that her test on Monday morning showed she had the novel virus. The positive cases at the White House just keeps growing with White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany illustrating that people can test negative several times before a positive test, wrote PBS News Yamiche Alcindor. She like many others had multiple possible exposures. CDC guidelines recommend for people to isolate after exposure to someone with Covid-19. But Ms McEnany, Mr Pence, and other White House staff and aides have continued their work in public while receiving multiple negative test results. Ms McEnany first announced she tested positive with no symptoms in a statement on Monday after testing negative every day since Thursday. No reporters, producers, or members of the press are listed as close contacts by the White House Medical Unit, Ms McEnany said, adding she was unaware of Hope Hicks positive test results until after her press briefing on Thursday. Her status as an essential worker allowed her to keep working on-site instead of isolating herself. Ms McEnany was pulled off Marine One on Thursday before the president headed to Bedminster, New Jersey, for a fundraiser. She was unable to go to the fundraiser because of Ms Hicks positive test, whom Ms McEnany came in contact with that week. Then the press secretary continued to work around the White House on Friday and into the weekend without quarantining. The White House Correspondents Association wished a swift recovery to Ms McEnany and the president after it was revealed another member of the Trump administration contracted Covid-19. As of this moment we are not aware of additional cases among White House journalists, though we know some are awaiting test results, a statement read. We strongly encourage our members to continue to follow CDC guidelines on mask-wearing and distancing especially when at the White House and urge journalists to seek testing if they were potentially exposed. Other notable figures close to Trump administration whove tested positive for Covid-19 in recent days include Trump campaign boss Bill Stepien, the presidents body man" Nick Luna, former New Jersey Govenor Chris Christie, Republican National Committee chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, Trump longtime adviser Kellyanne Conway, Senator Mike Lee, and Senator Thom Tillis. A recent study conducted in the Atlanta area reveals that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) related sexual distancing together with clinical service interruption for sexually transmitted diseases can potentially impact the future incidence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The study is currently available on the medRxiv* preprint server. Since its emergence, the COVID-19 pandemic has put severe burdens on the healthcare system and economy of many countries worldwide. In addition, control measures that have been applied to contain the pandemic, such as social distancing, has indirectly impacted the spread of HIV and other STIs by reducing sexual activities. Another crucial impact of the pandemic is an interruption in clinical services for HIV/STIs. In the United States, sexual activity between male partners is the primary cause of HIV/STI transmission. However, because of the COVID-19 related restrictions, a reduction in the numbers of partners, as well as frequency of sexual activity, has been observed among men who have sex with men (MSM). Simultaneously, HIV/STI related clinical services, such as diagnostic screening, utilization of preexposure prophylaxis, and continuation of therapies, have been reduced among MSM in the US regions with high HIV/STI prevalence, such as Atlanta. In the current study, the scientists from Emory University, the University of North Carolina, and Harvard Medical School tried to determine the combined impact of sexual distancing-related reduction in transmission and service interruption-related induction in transmission on the overall incidence of HIV/STIs in the long run. Relationship between the duration of sexual distancing and service interruption on cumulative (5-year) incidence of HIV and STIs per 1000 susceptible MSM. Individual boxes display the distribution of 500 simulations across each scenario. Current study design In the study, a network-based model of co-circulating HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia was adopted for black, Hispanic, and white MSM population (age range: 15 65 years) who live in Atlanta. The scientists evaluated the impact of COVID-19 related alteration in sexual partnership behaviors (main, casual, and onetime relationships) on the overall incidence of HIV/STIs. Moreover, they investigated how COVID-19 related service interruption (HIV screening, HIV preexposure prophylaxis, HIV treatment, and STI treatment) may impact the HIV/STI trajectories over the next 5 years. Important observations The scientists observed that reduction in clinical service and partnership network by 50% for 18 months mostly counterbalanced the effects of each other for HIV; however, the same situation was found to have a positive impact on STI incidence. A reduction in clinical service for a prolonged period of time was found to be associated high higher incidence of HIV and STIs; whereas, a reduction in HIV/STI incidence was observed with long-term sexual distancing. Of various clinical services, interruption in antiretroviral therapy-related services for HIV patients was found to have the maximum impact on the estimated increase in HIV cases. Based on the study model situation of 3 months of sexual distancing together with 18 months of clinical service reduction, the scientists estimated that there would be an additional 900 and 57,000 cases of HIV and STI, respectively, among the MSM population over the next 5 years in Atlanta. This indicates that although practicing sexual distancing has a counterbalancing effect on service interruption, the timing of these changes is important in determining the incidence rate for HIV/STIs. A short-term change in sexual behavior, together with long-term service interruption, can actually increase the incidence rate. Overall, the study projections indicate that a reduction in the number of sexual partners, together with long-term sexual distancing, has a strong effect in reducing the incidence of both HIV and other STIs. In contrast, long-term interruption in clinical services in the absence of sexual distancing can significantly increase the incidence of these infections. However, these findings are restricted to the MSM population that has a higher baseline incidence of HIV and other STIs and lower baseline access to HIV/STI related clinical services. Thus, additional studies are required to extrapolate the data for other populations. Study significance The study findings signify the indirect impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevention and management of other infectious diseases. This demands improved government policies to ensure uninterrupted clinical services. A step should also be taken to create awareness about protective sexual behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. *Important Notice medRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. ANSONIA A Valley tradition for more than three decades, the senior health and wellness fair at Warsaw Park will happen again this year, but with big changes in the name of safety. While the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has forced the cancellation of numerous events, state Sen. George Logan, R-Ansonia, who currently holds the event for his 17th District, said the fair is too important for older residents to completely shut down. The free fair wont take place in the traditional way, inside the building at Warsaw Park, lined with dozens of vendors, but Logan instead will offer it as a drive-through event on Oct. 14. Our seniors are a vulnerable population and we dont want to shut them out of receiving the important resources they deserve, Logan said Friday. So many events had to be canceled this year, and we didnt want to cancel this one. Logan released a teaser video on YouTube this week, announcing the event. Mark your calendars, Logan said. We will have all kinds of health and wellness resources and information, and a raffle, too. Im looking forward to see you all there. The fair is set for 10 a.m. to noon Oct. 14 at Warsaw Park, 119 Pulaski Highway. Seniors residing in the 17th District, which includes Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Bethany, Derby, Hamden, Naugatuck and Woodbridge, are welcome to attend. While there will be no flu shots or other health screenings offered as in years past, Logan will have fun-filled goody bags for all stuffed with important information and vital resources to help seniors. Seniors who attend will need to wear masks and remain in their cars while they drive through the event to receive their goody bags, which will be placed in the back seat of their cars. Logan said the first 100 cars to attend will receive a box of food, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy items, courtesy of the USDA Farmers to Family Food Box program, which was created in response to the pandemic. Everyone who attends also will receive free face masks. The popular fair was started by former state Sen. Gary Hale more than 30 years ago as a way to keep Valley seniors and others residing in the 17th District armed with important information to keep them healthy. After Hale, longtime state Sen. Joe Crisco began running the show, and now, as Criscos successor, Logan has been carrying on the tradition because arming seniors with vital information from avoiding phone scams and becoming victims of identity theft to eye and oral health is beneficial to their well-being. Derby resident Roberta Getlein has been a fan of the fair since Crisco started it, and plans on attending again this year. I find it to be very informative about what is available for seniors in the community and sometimes you also get immediate answers to questions regarding issues, she said. Derby Senior Center Executive Director Christine Sonsini agreed the fair is a great resource. I think that the event is very important for seniors because it connects them with resources that they may not know are available to them and resources that they may need in the future, Sonsini said. For more information about the fair, contact Peggy Tibbals at 860-240-8884 or by email peggy.tibbals@cga.ct.gov. jean.sos@snet.net GREY-BRUCE Dr. Ian Arra, medical officer of health, provided an update for board of health members on the challenges the health unit has faced during the school reopening. One is absenteeism in both Grey Bruce Catholic District School Board and Bluewater District School Board schools. Arra said data is collected daily, and any school with an absentee rate of over 10 per cent is flagged. He told the board this has happened at a couple of schools, and the health unit contacted them before they called us. Currently, theres a high absentee rate, the MOH said, adding, We know not all are illnesses. He suggested some parents may hear rumours COVID is in a school and feel anxiety. Other challenges have included a shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) and hand sanitizer in a small number of schools. While most have what Arra called an optimal supply, some PPE and sanitizer may not have arrived at certain schools yet. He expects the situation will be resolved shortly. Bruce Power and Grey EMS are providing more PPE and sanitizer to schools if required. One major challenge has been testing capacity. He described a technique called pooling which expands capacity considerably samples are tested in groups (of four) and then, if theres a positive, tested individually. Most results are available in a day or two. A saliva test, while available elsewhere, isnt available for public use in Ontario. He noted that while it sounds simple, hes been told that trying to get a saliva sample from a young child can be as difficult as doing a nasal swab. Arra reiterated that only people with symptoms or who have been exposed should be tested. Its basic science, he said. However, during the summer people with concerns but no symptoms or exposure were being told to get tested. There is no evidence of added benefit, he said, and it may add harm. He added that asymptomatic testing in long-term care homes was an expensive way to manage a situation when there was no real risk. Now that schools are back, the areas assessment centres have seen a surge in people wanting tests. Some of it is due to heightened anxiety over higher numbers in the province, and some is due to the stringent application of the provincial screening tool (used to check if a student should be sent home and tested for COVID-19). Arra said theres no problem with the tool. Its the use of it thats at issue. The people applying it are not health professionals, he said. The province has put together a new electronic screening tool that seems to be working, and Arra said he anticipates the numbers at the assessment centres will level out. Right now, though, numbers are still high. Arra noted that so far, the tests have been negative. There has been no outbreak (as of press time) at a Grey-Bruce school. The areas favourable epidemiology (low numbers) mean Arra is confident in an easing of the protocols that originally called for not only a symptomatic student but asymptomatic siblings to be sent home and isolated until all have a negative COVID-19 test or have isolated for 14 days. New protocols call for only the symptomatic student to be sent home and tested or isolated. Other family members will self-monitor. The symptomatic student will remain home until they receive negative results and are asymptomatic for 24 hours. Arra noted that the childs family physician can be of help when it comes to a student who has had symptoms for months or even years. He noted health providers are not expected to certify someone is COVID-free, just that they have symptoms consistent with another condition. We will supply more help for schools, said Arra. He explained that where theres a grey area, there are public health nurses in the schools to advise. He said that while dealing with contagious diseases is nothing new to public health, it is new to others and this may lead to new partnerships, for example, a growing number of pharmacies allowed to administer COVID-19 tests (not in Grey-Bruce) to asymptomatic people. Arra also spoke of the importance of crisis communication, which comes in two forms keeping the public informed when theres a real risk, and outrage management reassuring the public in situations where theres low risk but high outrage. Thats what happened with the assessment centres, he said, adding that so far, the return to schools in this area has been safe. Its a modified normalcy, he said, a difficult time. He expects to hear additional information from the public health nurses in the schools about the high absenteeism. Board member Chris Peabody, mayor of Brockton, asked about the stringent testing by vice-principals and teachers and if the numbers of students being sent home will be reduced. Arra said they would. Schools are working with the nine public health nurses and the provincial screening tool. Peabody also spoke of the heavy burden of the situation falling on working women. Arra agreed. He said more assessment centres would be welcome, as would added hours and staff in the existing centres. He said theres an average of three people working in an assessment centre at any given time, and it would be easy to double the number of people being tested. He also said that testing could fall to others, especially on the peninsula where there are no assessment centres. However, its not practical to suggest sick people go to pharmacies to be tested. In response to a question about mixed messages about testing, with the Ontario premier telling people to go get tested if you want, and the health unit saying only symptomatic people should be tested, Arra said that this past summer, testing took on a life of its own. The narrative is changing. There was also discussion about the government reducing the number of people allowed at gatherings. Brian Milne, deputy mayor of Southgate, said, People are frustrated. Arra said that while this area did not need the reduction, areas like Ottawa, Toronto and Peel did. The problem was mainly due to younger people having house parties. The danger is if people from a high-risk area have a gathering in a lower-risk area. Consistency in response means thats less likely to happen. Milne said he saw it as another example of Toronto doing their own damn thing and were suffering for it. Peabody asked if anyone else had received calls from people forced to make last-minute changes in outdoor wedding plans after that Saturday morning announcement by the Ontario premier. Milne said hed had a crying bride on his doorstep. Arra noted the ceremonies should not be affected, and if the reception is in a hall (where health protocols are in place and monitored), they should not be affected, only backyard weddings and receptions. In later discussion, Arra addressed upcoming events including Thanksgiving, Halloween and Christmas. While the province has not provided any direction about Halloween, Arra expects that will happen shortly. His advice is to protect yourself and your community, and have the event if you can do so in a safe way. I hope people are wise in their decisions, Arra said. "This is a really important way forward to improve outcomes of particularly those children with the most difficult to treat cancers," he said. Of the first 250 children enrolled in the program, the testing helped identify at least one new treatment that could help in 67 per cent (134) of those cases. In the children where new treatments were identified, 43 have received that therapy. Rather than treating the cancer based on where it was in the body, genetic testing has allowed them to "lift the lid" on the cancer cells and find out not only what is driving the cancer, but also what might treat it best, he said. "Cancer is a disease of genes. They're the normal genes in a cell that have gone wrong; they've been mutated, or there's too many of them, or there's not enough of them," Associate Professor Ekert said. "Sometimes those molecular changes that are present in a cancer cell are really strongly indicative of a particular type of treatment that might work." Thomas' father John Ebney said the trial has saved his son's life. Credit:Penny Stephens Hope and options Thomas Edney was one of those children who had no standard therapy options left. First diagnosed with a rare brain cancer as a two-year-old, his parents John and Abigail discovered, after years of treatment, that the cancer had come back. Doctors could offer little treatment for their then-six-year-old son other than surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible, Mr Edney said. "We were really, at that point, at a bit of a loss as to what to do," Mr Edney said. "The thing you look for in those circumstances is hope, and options." Loading Thomas oncologist recommended the ZERO program. It proved to be Thomas' lifesaver. It led to a clinical trial for a drug called Afatinib, a drug which is more commonly used to treat lung cancer. It has shrunk Thomas tumour, but Mr Edney said he and his wife noticed changes in Thomas before they could see the effect of treatment on the brain scans. "Pretty quickly after taking the medication, he no longer had constant headaches, there was no longer vomiting, his energy picked up, he was starting to return to school participating in normal activities," he said. Thomas is now eight years old, and the medication is still showing positive results. Loading "It's life changing. Without it, he probably wouldn't be here," Mr Edney said. The future of childhood cancer treatment Associate Professor Ziegler said the focus of the ZERO program was showing it was possible to do the genetic testing and get results back quickly enough to be able to make a difference for each child. But they had not been able to see whether the children had been able to access the recommended drugs. Roberts said he thinks the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission should allow ACP to work with individual landowners to see how best to restore land that was disturbed for construction. This is reflected in a filing on the FERC docket Aug. 3 in response to ACPs request for a time extension on the project; the property owners association does not object to the request and wants ACP to have more time to fix land disturbed for the route. A statement posted to the ACPs website says in the wake of the projects cancellation, officials with the pipeline will work with landowners, FERC and other agencies to determine the best path forward for all agreements and assets related to the project. Since ACP was unable to complete more work in Nelson County before pulling the plug on the controversial project, Joyce Burton, with Nelson County-based environmental group Friends of Nelson, said the county dodged a bullet, adding she is encouraged to see the recovery currently taking place. Mother Nature is resilient, and she does the best that she can to fix things, Burton said. It is heartening to see stuff growing back; its a bit of a reminder of our shame that we cut this stuff down, and it was a waste to have done that. A significant minority in Indias policy circles questions what India has gained from its reconstruction activities in Afghanistan. India has earned (back) goodwill and traction with Afghans from all parts of the country. Before Taliban rule in Afghanistan, India had an exiguous presence in the minds of Afghans, who felt that India had turned away from them. They now know that India wants Afghans to stand on their own feet and make their own decisions. They know India is working for a sovereign, united, and peaceful Afghanistan. They believe in the commonalities between Indian and Afghan objectives, and that India will celebrate Afghan successes. Indias effort to rebuild Afghanistan goes beyond financial support or constructing the Afghan parliament, a dam on the Hari Rud River, transmission lines and a power station to bring electricity to Kabul, and Small Development Projects for education and health. India has contributed to building institutions, developing human resources, training Afghan public officials and providing the country with a new generation of educated and skilled workers. The Taliban gained ground in parts of Afghanistan not because they are smart and tough as Donald Trump believes, but because of American mismanagement, Afghan incapacity, and support to the Taliban from the Pakistan army. Afghanistans defence minister, Asadullah Khalid, told me several years ago, when he was Kandahars governor: It is not that the Taliban are strong, it is that we are weak. The Taliban profile is disproportionate to its gains on the ground. Many in Pakistan insinuate that India is sabotaging the Doha negotiations because India would not like Afghanistan and Pakistan to have good relations. Far from it. Unlike Pakistan, which fears harmonious ties between India and Afghanistan, India would be quite content with friendship between Pakistan and Afghanistan. After all, the same families, clans and tribes straddle the two sides of their long and porous frontiers. That said, India would be content if, irrespective of relations between Islamabad and Kabul, the Afghan people and government were free to decide the kind of relationships they should have with other countries, including India. Does India have reasons to worry about the peace deal concluded between the United States (US) and the Taliban and a future peace deal between the Taliban and the Afghan government? Not if all Afghans agree that the peace deal safeguards their interests. Not if they can preserve the gains made in Afghanistan since 2001. All parties, including the Taliban, should feel assured that they will have Indias support if they acted independently. India is, therefore, just right in lining up behind Afghanistan, with the external affairs minister participating in the September 12 inaugural of the Doha inter-Afghan negotiations. It is not to suggest that India has now warmed to the Taliban but to underline that India has no reservations in interacting with the Taliban if the Afghan government has none. With Doha, India has ended the erstwhile ambiguity in its policy. India is willing to engage with any party committed to peace and stability in Afghanistan. The invite to India was an acknowledgement that India has vital interests in Afghanistan. While Irans foreign minister, Jawad Zarif, did not participate because of the presence of the US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, a way must be found to involve Iran in the Afghan peace process, which will receive a blow should there be a flare-up between Iran and the US. Abdullah Abdullah, Chairman of Afghanistans High Council for National Reconciliation will be in Delhi from Tuesday to consult with Indias top leadership, seeking a reiteration of Indias support for the peace process. India has supported efforts to bring inclusive peace to Afghanistan by advising leaders of different ethnicities to work in cohesion with others for peace and nation-building. India favours the social and political reintegration of those who give up their physical and ideological association with terrorist groups and networks, resile from violence, and embrace pluralism and democracy. India opposes the political accommodation of individuals, groups or Islamist entities associated with the al-Qaeda, the Daesh, and their associates since this will subvert the nascent Afghan democracy, undermine human rights, and destroy emerging Afghan institutions. A subverted Afghanistan in the hands of terrorist networks will be a catastrophe for India, the region and the world. The restoration of status-quo-ante in Afghanistan could also lead to the unravelling of the state system in neighbouring Pakistan a matter of deep concern. For peace in Afghanistan, there should be an immediate ceasefire. Reduced violence that is being promoted as an interim measure will not be enough, as the Taliban has continued with its attempts at targeted assassinations and bombings. A ceasefire must be followed by the cessation of sanctuary, sustenance and support to the Haqqani Network, the military arm of the Taliban most closely linked to the Pakistan army, and other like-minded terrorist groups. Jayant Prasad is a retired diplomat who has served as Indias ambassador to Afghanistan The views expressed are personal File image Sahara Group on October 5 hit back at Netflix after it released controversial series Bad Boy Billionaires: India, calling the series an "ill-motivated, incorrect, misleading documentary depicted through some disgruntled people who hold personal grudges" against the company. The OTT platform released three episodes of the docuseries based on four Indian tycoons (including Sahara's Subrata Roy) facing allegations of fraud on October 5. "While expressing opinion with regard to interviews of a few investors, the documentary has conspicuously spelt half truth by concealing the fact that the Supreme Court had, vide its judgment dated 31.08.2012, clearly directed SEBI to make refund to the investors and though the SEBI is holding about Rs 22,000 crore of Sahara, it has only repaid about Rs 107 crore to the investors in last 8 years, and thus the allegations of non-payment to investors is only on account of blame to SEBI and cannot be fastened against Sahara," the group claimed in a statement. The Group said, "The documentary is technically misguided, when it uses words like Chit Fund, against legally founded businesses of Saharas, commenced within regulatory/ legal framework." Three episodes of the series based on the founder of defunct Kingfisher Airlines Vijay Mallya, fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi and Sahara group chief Subrata Roy, are available to stream on the OTT platform. Calling the series defamatory and maliciously made in the garb of journalistic freedom, the group said, "Netflix, being wholly owned subsidiary of foreign entities, in law, it has no protection of fundamental rights of free speech and expression. Sahara has already filed criminal cases against Netflix and their promoters, producers, directors and reporters etc." "The law will take its own course against such mis-adventurous exercises of Netflix," it concluded in the statement. The fourth episode of the series, based on former chairman and CEO of Satyam Computer Services B Ramalinga Raju, was not released as a Hyderabad civil court has restrained Netflix from releasing it. A civil court in Patna had earlier restrained Netflix from releasing the documentary series using Roy's name in an order dated August 28. The California-based platform subsequently moved the Supreme Court to seek a stay on the order. However, the top court on September 2 refused to entertain the appeal by Netflix. Days after the SC refused to entertain the appeal, the Patna High Court, too, dismissed the OTT platforms plea challenging the injunction order. The release was possible after a lower court in Bihar on October 3 vacated its own stay order , as per an Economic Times report. I arrived in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania yesterday. Here are the steps I went through upon arrival. First, NO coronovirus test is required for entry into Tanzania. I want to clear that up because there's lots of misinformation floating around on that subject. You will be required to fill out a health. They handed out the form onboard the airline. It has a list of questions about your health and whereabouts in the last 2-3 weeks before arrival in Tanzania. After deplaning you are greeted in a hallway where they take your form, and take your temperature. I flew Qatar airlines from LAX, where all passengers were required to wear masks and face shields. They collect those face shields at the temperature check booth and put them in a plastic bag. I just realized that this was for purposes of their no plastics law. Next there are several immigration officers checking passports and immigration requirements before you are allowed to reach the actual desk. They check passports and visas. I needed to renew my current visa, so I was directed to fill out a form. From their you go to a desk where you are given a slip to pay for the visa, depending on how long you are staying. I got a multi entry visa. It cost $100 USD. Next you take the slip to make payment. I was going to pay by credit card. But the guy told me that their card machine was down and asked if I had cash. I had cash, and have him $100. Then I was directed to the immigration officer who looked at my payment receipt. He stamped with my passport with the visa good for one year. I then proceeded to baggage claim. The entire process from deplaning to getting my bags took about 30-45 minutes. The aiport was very empty. Ross Gittins identifies the ideologically blinkered attitude of the Coalition government that offers income tax cuts to the wealthy, in pursuit of smaller government, while doing nothing about the failure of residential aged care ( Smaller government has failed, but lets cut taxes anyway , October 5). Apart from the obvious, that tax cuts to the wealthy will not stimulate the economy in a deep recession, there is a deeper problem: ageism. Traditionally, migrating children left their elderly parents in the old country. They became someone elses responsibility. In Australia, fractured extended families have unloaded their responsibility on to the state. The Coalition has surmised that we dont care enough to pay the higher taxes necessary to sustain a decent aged care system. - Geoff Black, Caves Beach There have been too many losers so far in Australias COVID-19 battle: casual workers, temporary visa holders, the university sector, the arts, to name a few ( No one left out in cash boost, Treasurer says , October 5). The government has introduced some fine initiatives, but given the speed of the crisis and the need to act quickly, mistakes are inevitable. But theres been time to plan the budget, time to identify those whove slipped through the cracks, so I eagerly turned to the story. The words no taxpayer stopped me in my tracks. The implication of such a statement is that unless youre working, youre worthless. - Jennifer Raines, Newtown Josh Frydenberg has an opportunity to remind us on budget night that things are always worse under Labor ( Five years of deficit in budget from hell , October 5). Im sure everyone understands the need for tax cuts for the top end of town so that the rest of us can experience the joys of trickle down economics. I can only imagine the pain of our soft-hearted PM in having to reduce support for those on Centrelink payments to provide the more necessary support for those struggling to maintain their high incomes. - Graham Lum, North Rocks The past two Saturday editions of the Herald have noted that Josh Frydenberg is concerned about the economic impact of the fall in our population growth because of COVID-19. There is an option: release all refugees held in our detention centres. Not only would this save the high expense of incarceration but it would also boost our tax base (and probably our birth rate) because most of the refugees are young and appear eager to work. - Patsy Asch, Armidale Thank you, Alison Lyssa (Letters, October 5) for pressing our government to introduce a living wage for all. If everyone were to be paid a taxable living wage, our economic woes would be sorted. We would all have food on the table and a roof over our heads. We would all be spending, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth without the need for a huge army of administrators managing aged pensions, unemployment benefits, sickness payments and more. Let the economists and politicians come together and get the country on track without relying on an expanding ever-consuming and polluting population. - Michael Leslie, Cooks Hill Our important ally is no longer exceptional Bill Wyman gives voice to the myth of American exceptionalism when he says the US is the worlds most advanced nation boasting the worlds most severe [coronavirus] outbreak (All hail the Tantrum in Chief, October 5). In fact, the US is neither the worlds most advanced nation nor does it have the most severe outbreak. The days when America led in nearly every aspect of technological development are long gone, while a nation such as Japan is further down the path of social and demographic modernity. As for the virus, America, a large and open country with relatively reliable figures, has the highest number of reported cases but not the most severe outbreak as measured by case fatality rate or deaths per capita. Unprecedented consumption of American media and the presidency of Donald Trump have exacerbated the tendency of Americans and non-Americans to see the US in superlative terms. A more realistic view is needed. The US will be the worlds most powerful country and Australias most important ally for a long time to come. But it is neither the best nor the worst at everything. - John Sexton, Petersham Visiting American friends are always delighted with our pristine country, kangaroos and cuddly koalas (which have the misfortune to live in Barilaro country). Their conversation usually includes but Australia is 10 years behind the US, meaning one day we would catch up and be as great as America. We are still behind the US, but Trump has provided us with 20/20 foresight, which should be a huge advantage in dodging the broadside that is the chaos of its pretend democracy and impending collapse. The US legacy will be: broken countries, hundreds of thousands of civilians killed, millions displaced, leftover cluster bombs and Agent Orange. Chinas Belt and Road policy will leave a legacy of infrastructure, schools, roads and ports. Trump has displayed in full how it will pan out, and if ever we needed a government that could steer Australia clear of this global catastrophe, it is in the immediate future. It is too late for the US, but we have time and the ability to create a harmonious society by narrowing the gaps between rich and poor, black and white. Ten years behind the US is not a bad position as long as we still have steering. - Steve Johnson, Elizabeth Beach Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas took an unprompted shot at marriage equality on Monday. At the start of its term Monday, the Supreme Court declined to hear a lawsuit from Kim Davis, the former Kentucky county clerk who refused to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples despite a federal court order. Thomas, joined by Justice Samuel Alito, agreed that Davis' case shouldn't be heard, but also issued a scathing attack on the Obergefell v. Hodges ruling that made same-sex marriage the law nationwide. Obergefell "read a right to same-sex marriage into the 14th amendment, even though that right is found nowhere in the text," Thomas argued in his Monday statement. In the process, it suggested those who opposed same-sex marriage for religious reasons "espoused a bigoted worldview," Thomas wrote, deeming Davis "one of the first victims of the court's cavalier treatment of religion." And until Obergefell is overturned, it will "continue to have ruinous consequences for religious liberty," Thomas finished. It's the first day of the new Supreme Court term and Justices Thomas and Alito have released a statement attacking marriage equality and implying that Obergefell needs to be overturned. They paint Kim Davis, the clerk who refused to authorize same-sex marriages, as a martyr. pic.twitter.com/rht0xnZqQF African American Policy Forum (@AAPolicyForum) October 5, 2020 Only four justices need to agree to hear a case, meaning Thomas and Alito's dissent alone wouldn't be enough to get it on the docket. But the possible induction of nominee Amy Coney Barrett, a conservative, could put another voice in favor of hearing a challenge to Obergefell. It's something Jim Obergefell himself is afraid of, telling The Daily Beast that "what I, and the many other marriage equality plaintiffs fought for, is at more risk than ever before" after Barrett's nomination. More stories from theweek.com President Superspreader Trump is finally doubling down on COVID skepticism 5 worrying red flags from Trump's doctor Pick fruit, find love and get likes on Instagram. That's the message Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack is using to appeal to young Australians, as he tries to fill the looming harvest labour shortage of around 26,000 workers by March. In itself, the message is a pretty cringeworthy attempt to lure young people across the country to ditch the dole in favour of 'fun on the farm' - even claiming that regional work could 'change the way you live'. Farm life: I ended up doing regional work in Bundaberg to get my 88 days done and dusted - and while an incredible experience, there's some things that are a physical nightmare. (Pictured third from left) But reluctantly, every word McCormack is saying rings true for me. As a backpacker, I did end up falling head-over-heels in love on a farm, have an abundance of friends I'll have for the rest of my life and carry so many ridiculous memories that I won't be forgetting in a hurry. He pretty much has it bang on. However, within his speech of positivity, McCormack didn't explore why working in the farm industry in Australia can be an absolute horror story for so many young people around the world. Extremely low pay, sleazy farmers and getting hit and screamed at by supervisors all appeared to be part and parcel of working in agriculture, and something we heard about all too much during our three months on a farm. As I hail from England, like every backpacker we're required to complete 88 days of regional work in order to apply for a second working holiday visa in Australia unless you're sponsored by an employer, or go on a partnership visa. Friends for life: We stayed with the same people in our working hostel during the pandemic. Pictured: Outside Federal Hostel, weeks before the entire building burned down in front of us Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack's solution to fruit picker shortages 'Have a go, come to regional Australia, bring your mobile and have that Instagram moment... up a ladder, picking fruit, blue sky in the background, wonderful country breeze, wonderful friends around. 'You'll find more friends. You might even find the love of your life out in regional Australia.' Advertisement Despite everyone telling me not to, I chose to do my farm work at Federal Hostel in Bundaberg, Queensland, which is a hotspot for international backpackers on the hunt for hourly work. For a whopping $236 a week - the same amount I was paying for a double bed in Coogee in Sydney - you're placed on a waiting list for a coveted hourly paid job, and share a room with eight other people all eager to get their days done and get back to city life. The rooms themselves were pretty run down, bonking was rampant on the bunk beds nearby so you never truly got a good night's sleep, and we were fined $500 if even a slither of alcohol was found in the hostel. At first glance, I figured I'd just be popping a couple of lemons into a basket and drinking goon for the rest of the time. But while the latter was completely true, the actual work resulted in countless breakdowns, people tearfully leaving their jobs and some of the most old-fashioned and backwards treatment of workers I've ever known. 'BACKPACKERS!' I heard being screamed to us on day one of my sweet potato farm job. 'NO TALKING!' Now, I'm not going to lie - I honestly haven't worked a day of manual labour in all of my 27 years, but I swear I gave it the best crack I possibly could. Hard life: Living in a working hostel, you often see many people who have never done a day of manual labour in their life - myself included (pictured) Best friends: McCormack was right about one thing - you definitely meet pals for life while working in the hellish conditions But as we reached the sixth hour of attempting to plant sweet potatoes in the ground, I felt my legs being lightly whipped with a vine by our supervisor as she tried to make me run faster down the field. 'You'll have to fire me as I'm literally gasping for breath, I can't keep up,' I said, wondering what on earth was happening. And she did. Day one. Fired. Mortifying. During my two weeks of unemployment - during which I still had to pay full rent - my friends would tell me countless horror stories of what had happened to them on their farms that day. The same supervisor who dashed my legs with a vine ended up smacking one of the boys on the arm. 'Everyone was shocked,' he said, adding that the woman in question was never allowed near him again after the incident. Our Irish roommate, Nuala, walked in one day and showed us her war wound. Her job had been to drag huge fallen macadamia trees into a giant chipper, which would grind them up into tiny pieces. But one of the trees got stuck. Her arm was dragged into said machine, and she physically had to bang her arm against the side to be set free. 'I almost got minced!' she said, with a look of sheer horror on her face. But she needed to get her days done, so she reluctantly returned to work the next morning to keep on ticking them off. Bonking: Our hostel (pictured) would cost $236 a week, and would regularly feature rampant couples spending the night together every night All the fun: The different hostels were filled with hundreds of backpackers all over the world, trying to get their second or third year Visas approved Horror stories: Every person on the farm had a different tale to tell - but it never appeared to be easy to get 88 days signed off Another of my friends, Ellie, had been working at a different hostel on 'piece rate' - where you're paid for what you pick, rather than an hourly wage. 'It was f**king grim,' she said. 'The lowest we got paid is about $23 for hours and hours of picking, and there was just nothing to pick. We couldn't afford rent, but of course they didn't care and we had to pay anyway.' Because a lot of the work is aimed at boys, some of the girls I met found that they even turned a blind eye when it came to sleazy farmers making advances towards them. 'I let him touch my bum, because I honestly needed to keep my job,' a friend of mine said to me. When another of my pals was out in the field, a radio went off in one of the vans - one which is connected to all the other farmers. 'I can't concentrate today,' the creepy farmer said on the other end of the line. 'She's got her short shorts on.' On a different farm, I was asked to fix water sprinklers in a field when one of the farmers came over to me. 'It looks like you've got a wet p***y there,' he said. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. And this is it; for so many, things that are normally so hideously outrageous become 'just another day' on the farm. If we don't do the days, we have to leave the country. It's as simple as that. Help: Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack is drastically trying to fill the looming harvest labour shortage of around 26,000 workers by March Bliss: For the most part, farm life was an unbelievable experience that not one of us will forget Following my dramatically awful stint on sweet potatoes, I worked on two other farms during my season. When COVID-19 was in full swing we were only able to socialise with those in our hostels and on our farms - getting daily temperature checks in the process - so we became a tight-knit family who spent every waking moment together. The macadamia farm I ended up on was incredible. Working with your best friends made a world of difference, and despite a few breakdowns it was probably the best experience it could be. And, as Mr McCormack predicted, I fell in love in the midst of farm work. I'll never know if it was the way he seductively drove a tractor, how he made planting macadamia trees look so easy or just how stunning he was to look at, but I knew I'd fallen for Josh within a matter of weeks. Within a couple of months I'd moved in with him, and now he's come over to Sydney so we can live together here. I've honestly never been happier. My experience was probably a little different to many others, because to top off a bizarre few months our hostel ended up burning to the ground the day before I was supposed to leave. On the day itself, me and the girls had been drinking bottles of Prosecco to celebrate the end of my 88 days in true Bundaberg style. But as midnight drew closer, the fire alarms went off and we were forced to evacuate the building. He was right! I ended up finding love on a macadamia farm (Pictured with Josh) Moving on: We've now moved away from Bundaberg and back into Sydney Horror: What started as a small fire in the pub next door, turned into a blazing inferno which engulfed our entire hostel - and we all just watched it from outside We dozily dragged our bodies through the corridor, still drunk, barefoot and wearing nothing but pyjamas as we waited outside in the hopes we'd return to our beds at any minute. But we never did. What started as a small fire in the pub next door, turned into a blazing inferno which engulfed our entire hostel. We stood and watched outside, helpless as everything we'd owned burned down in front of our eyes. Clothes, memories, laptops and suitcases - all completely gone within seconds. On the farm, we'd all been listening to the podcast about Childers Backpackers some 40 minutes away from us, which was burned down in an arson attack 20 years ago. The devastating tragedy saw 15 backpackers, doing their farm work just like us, lose their lives in an instant. We were so, so lucky that every single person in our hostel escaped unharmed that night. The management were incredible. The people of Bundaberg were incredible, donating anything and everything to make sure we were OK. And our best friends were incredible, raising a massive $16,000 for those who lost their belongings. It was this incident that encompassed everything about farm work for me; even as everything burned down in front of us, everyone cracked on and tried to make light of a horrific situation. And that's exactly what farm work is - an awful situation made incredible by the people you meet along the way. Devastated: Myself (left) and friends Nuala (centre) and Ro (right) watched as our home was demolished, with everything we owned inside I'm not going to lie - the outrageous parties, stories of bunk-bed hopping and never-ending supply of drinks is all true. The whole experience is absolutely unforgettable, and I have zero regrets about doing a minute of farm work - even with the hostel burning down. However, if Mr McCormack wants to incentivise more people to sign up to regional work, there should be more than just the hope of 'romance' and cute Instagram snaps on the cards. Piece rate should be regulated; no one should have to work hours on end in a scorching hot field for literal pennies. Farms should be more regulated. If someone smacked someone in London for not doing their job properly, they'd be locked up. Why it's any different for backpackers is unbelievable. We came out of this process having the utmost respect for those who work in the sector, and I know that so many do this worldwide without complaint. But if workers were treated with a little more respect, it wouldn't be such a battle to fill these positions. For me and my friends, Bundaberg was one hell of a ride - two of us even got the most horrific tattoos known to man to commemorate the whole experience. But would I do six months of fruit picking to get a third year in Australia? Never in a million years. The Prime Minister has been accused of a stunt after it was announced the feasibility of building a bridge or tunnel between Northern Ireland and Scotland will be examined in a new UK-wide review. Downing Street said the review, led by Network Rail chair Sir Peter Hendy, will explore the cost, practicality and demand for a fixed link, which has been mooted by Boris Johnson several times. Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said the PM should instead be listening to the voices of the regional governments. She said: In another stunt, the British Prime Minister has been out promoting his Union connectivity review. Instead of listening to the voices of the devolved administrations, the Prime Minister continues his flag-flying project, focusing on his vanity Boris bridge, instead of investing in life-improving, economy enhancing, all-island transformative projects. The Ulster Unionists, however, called for Ms Mallon to be an active participant in the review. Infrastructure spokesman Roy Beggs MLA said it was more important than ever UK connectivity was reviewed. Just because we may have differences in priorities doesnt mean that we shouldnt participate positively in those discussions, he said. We could start by ensuring there is no border in the Irish Sea, ending domestic air passenger duty, developing low or no emission ferries or improving the substandard A75 and A77 roads which serve Cairnryan Port. The NI Executive and Minister for Infrastructure should be active participants in these conversations. Ms Mallon said London-imposed Tory glamour projects should be avoided, which she said only serve the Prime Ministers manifesto pledges. Its still true: you cannot eat a flag, she added. If the British Government want to invest here, bring it on, but instead of plucking new manifesto plans out of the Tory handbook, they should start by paying for the pledges they already made in New Decade, New Approach. The review comes after Mr Johnson in July pledged a spend of 100m on road projects across the UK. He said: The UK is the greatest political partnership the world has ever seen and we need transport links between our nations that are as strong as our historic bonds. The review is expected to report in the summer. Police on Monday released the identity of a 20-year-old St. Louis man killed in a traffic crash on Friday. Vicente Marcello Oliva was driving northbound on Shepherd Road at the US-127 overpass when he collided with a southbound pickup truck driven by a 22-year-old man, also from St. Louis. Witnesses said Oliva was driving erratically and at high speeds prior to the crash, which happened just after 8:30 p.m., state police said in a press release. The vehicle caught fire as a result of the crash and was extinguished by responding police. The other driver sustained serious non-life-threatening injuries and was airlifted from the scene. Traffic was blocked on Shepherd Road both north and southbound for the duration of the incident. The crash is still under investigation. Troopers were assisted on scene by the Isabella County Sheriffs Department, the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Police Department, Central Michigan University Police Department, the Shepherd Township Fire Department, Flight Care and MMR EMS. Oil prices climbed more than 5% on Monday after US President Donald Trump said he will leave the hospital where he is being treated for Covid-19, while six Norwegian offshore oil and gas fields were shut as more workers joined a strike. Brent rose $2.02, or 5.1%, to settle at $41.29 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose $2.17, or 5.9%, to settle at $39.22 a barrel. "A lot of people thought last week's sell-off was overdone," said Phil Flynn, senior analyst at Price Futures Group in Chicago. "There were a lot of assumptions." On ... Chinese people are happiest with their government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic, according to a survey. US and Spanish academics quizzed nearly 13,500 people from 19 countries hit badly by Covid-19 to gauge public attitude about how the different nations reacted to the outbreak. People were asked to grade their government's handling of the crisis, including how well lockdown measures worked, how strong testing regimes were and if vulnerable people were protected during the first wave. Chinese people were most satisfied with how their government had responded, with China having the top score of 80.5 out of 100. The US ranked number nine (50.5) behind the likes of South Africa and India while Britain came in at number 13 (48.6), behind Russia. Higher Covid-19 infection and death rates directly correlated with a lower score for the country, the researchers found. China reacted quickly but harshly to the outbreak, locking down cities with armed guards and confining people to their homes by threatening them with jail. So, despite being the epicentre of the pandemic, it has recorded just 91,082 cases and around 5,000 deaths - although officials have been accused of fiddling with the figures to save face after failing to stop the outbreak racing around the world. Chinese people were most satisfied with how their government had responded, with China having the top score of 80.5 out of 100. The US ranked number nine - behind the likes of South Africa and India - while Britain came in at number 13, behind Russia How Covid has spread through the continents: The Americas have been hit hardest by the pandemic Average Score by Country China 80.48 South Korea 74.54 South Africa 64.62 India 63.88 Germany 61.32 Canada 61.00 Singapore 57.55 Italy 51.71 United States 50.57 France 49.20 Russia 48.85 United Kingdom 48.66 Mexico 46.48 Nigeria 46.32 Spain 44.68 Sweden 42.07 Poland 41.28 Brazil 36.35 Ecuador 35.76 Advertisement In the West, leaders have been more reluctant to strip away people's freedoms and often delayed going into lockdown. It is partly why the US has the worst death toll in the world, with 210,000 victims so far, and the UK is fifth, with 43,000 deaths. The average score for the United States, with 773 respondents answering an array of different questions, was 50.57. The country scored highest for its assistance with income, food, and shelter during the pandemic. The UK, on the other hand, had an average score of 48.66 and scored lowest in access to reliable testing. Asian countries are thought to have been better-equipped at dealing with epidemics, having lived through SARS and MERS outbreaks in recent years both diseases are different types of coronaviruses. There was already testing and contact tracing infrastructure in place to be able to quickly update it to deal with Covid-19. The study was carried out by researchers from the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) and the City University of New York. Their findings were published in the journal, PLOS ONE. The team surveyed more than 13,400 participants from 19 countries heavily affected by the pandemic The average score varied considerably between countries - from a total of 35.76 in Ecuador to 80.48 for China, the worst and best nations. South Korea (74.5), South Africa (64.6), India (63.8) and Germany (61.32) rounded out the top five best-rated countries. While Spain (44.6), Sweden (42), Poland (41.2) and Brazil (36.3) scored among the lowest of the 19 nations. The common theme in the findings, the researchers said, was that higher Covid-19 death and infection rates were directly correlated with a lower score for the country. On the whole, countries in Asia tended to have lower deaths and higher scores, while Latin-American and European countries were among those with high fatality counts and low scores, the researchers found. Asia performed best mainly because it was incredibly fast fast to lock down, fast to roll out mass testing, fast to close down public events, fast to identify a track and trace app, fast to order protective equipment, fast to stop visits to care homes, and fast to require people to wear face coverings. Some experts say it was easier for authoritarian regimes - like that in China - to lock down countries quickly than it is for liberal countries. Asia also has more experience than the rest of the world in dealing with infectious diseases just like coronavirus - having beat SARS and MERS in the last two decades. GOP and House Minority leader Kevin McCarthy has slammed Nancy Pelosi for her 'disgusting' response to President Trump's COVID-19 infection. Speaking to Fox News on Sunday, McCarthy (R-Calif) called the speaker of the House of Representatives' reaction to the news 'unbecoming' of her position after she called Trump's behavior a 'brazen invitation' to the diagnosis. 'It's rather disgusting, and we've watched the speaker Pelosi say this before, that we're enemies of the state,' he said. 'This is uncalled for, especially in this time and place. Other nations are watching America. This is the one time we could unite together '[Trump] is sitting here trying to work with this speaker to get a COVID relief package together and these are the comments that she makes? It's really unbecoming of that position.' GOP and House Minority leader Kevin McCarthy slammed comments made by speaker of the House of Representatives' Nancy Pelosi in response to President Trump's Covid-19 infection The GOP leader made the case that there should be more consideration for the well-being of the president and others affected following his coronavirus diagnosis. He was responding to comments made by Pelosi on Friday, when she said that Trump's COVID-19 infection was 'very sad. But it something ... going into crowds unmasked was a brazen invitation for this to happen.' She said that she hoped the news would 'hopefully be a transition to a saner approach,' to the pandemic, adding 'hopefully this is not serious for the president.' Pelosi has been one the most vocal critics of the Trump administration's response to the coronavirus pandemic. McCarthy also told Maria Bartiromo on Fox's Sunday Morning Futures that he had a conversation with Trump on Friday night, and said that the president was most worried about others who had also contracted the virus. He added that Trump was appreciated of the well-wishes but was still hard at work. 'The one thing I did hear more of - that how committed [sic] - he's even doubling-down to make sure he lowers prescription drug prices, that he protects pre-existing conditions. Speaking on Friday - the day after Trump announced testing positive for coronavirus - Pelosi (pictured) said: 'Going into crowds unmasked was a brazen invitation for this to happen' The president announced that he and First Lady Melania had tested positive for coronavirus on Thursday night - shortly after top aide Hope Hicks also tested positive after traveling with Trump multiple times over the last week. Trump went into the hospital on Friday evening, and is currently being treated for COVID-19 at the Walter Reed medical center. On Sunday he made a last-minute, surprise visit to his supporters outside, briefly leaving his hospital room to thank the cheering loyalists. The president was in a suit, but no protective equipment beyond his face mask. In the front passenger seat was a person wearing a gown, face mask and face shield. It was unclear whether the driver was similarly protected. On Sunday, Trump made a last minute visit to supporters outside the Walter Reed medical center, waving to them from his car. The visit was condemned by an attending doctor But Dr James Phillips, a Walter Reed attending doctor, condemned the president's afternoon drive, which violated Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines. He said it was dangerous and reckless, in comments which quickly went viral - gaining more than 100,000 'likes' and 40,000 retweets in the first hour. 'Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary Presidential "drive-by" just now has to be quarantined for 14 days,' he pointed out. 'They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity.' The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Monday said that terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) was involved in the Pampore attack in which two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawans martyred and three injured. Inspector-General of Police, Kashmir range, Vijay Kumar said that the terrorists were on a motorcycle and managed to escape from the spot. He added that they were carrying a weapon--an AK 47. Kumar confirmed that one of the terrorists is a Pakistani and has been identified as Saifullah. He also asserted that this is the third attack carried by the same terrorists. The IG stated that the national highway is a target because there are many civilian vehicles plying. Kumar said, "Lashkar was involved in the Pampore attack. Two Jawans of CRPF martyred, three injured. Militants were on a motorcycle and carried an AK 47s, they managed to escape from the spot. This is the third attack carried by the same militants. One of them is a Pakistani by the name Saifullah. We have identified them and soon will get them." "The national highway is a target because there are many civilian vehicles plying, we have to take care of that. We take preventive care," he added. Terrorists on Monday attacked and opened fire on the 110 Battalion CRPF, who along with Jammu and Kashmir Police were carrying out road opening duty at Kandijhal Bridge in Pampore in Pulwama district. Two CRPF jawans succumbed to their injuries while three others are undergoing medical treatment at a Srinagar-based Army Hospital. Live TV Earlier, a CRPF official said, "Terrorists attacked security forces on National Highway near Kandizaal area in Pampore in Pulwama district in which five soldiers were injured. The area was immediately cordoned off and a search operation was launched to nab the terrorists." The CRPF official said that terrorists carried out the attack on forces near Kandizal bridge area of Pampore. Local health departments across Michigan are evaluating whether to reinforce public health orders in light of a court ruling that will scrap hundreds of executive orders meant to mitigate the coronavirus pandemic. The Michigan Supreme Court, in a 4-3 split decision, ruled Gov. Gretchen Whitmer does not have the authority to extend a state of emergency without legislative approval. In a statement, Whitmer said the decision wont go into effect for three weeks, setting an Oct. 23 date for mask-wearing requirements and other orders to expire. It is unclear, however, if there is a lag time between the courts ruling and when Whitmers order expire. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services previously reinforced some of Whitmers orders, including those requiring mask use and limiting public gatherings, by issuing health orders under a different state statute. County health officials stressed to residents over the weekend that MDHHS orders remain in effect. At least two counties, Oakland and Ingham, quickly replaced the governors orders with their own mandates over the weekend. Health directors cited their authority under the state Public Health Code, which allows local health officers to take actions during an epidemic. I think (people) hear that ruling, then they see health officers step in and they say the governor cant do it, you couldnt do it either, but its two completely different laws, said Ingham County Health Officer Linda Vail. The law that was challenged, relative to her authority is not the Public Health Code. No one has challenged the authority of the Public Health Code." Several other health departments and county officials that spoke with MLive on Monday are waiting to see how the state acts before implementing any local orders of their own. Were hoping the state gets their act together and control this issue from a statewide perspective, said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel. We hope to not have to invoke any type of emergency orders or declarations on behalf of the county because this is something that should be handled in a statewide manner. Hackel announced Macomb County will not issue a local order requiring people to wear masks in public. The Macomb County Health Department is responsible for the health of 873,972 people in Michigans third-largest county. Neighboring Oakland County took the opposite approach. The Oakland County Health Department, which is responsible for the health of 1.2 million residents in Michigans second-largest county, issued an emergency order Saturday requiring residents to wear masks or face coverings in public. In a statement, Oakland County Executive David Coulter said health experts agree that facial coverings are critical to controlling the spread of the coronavirus. We have come too far to backslide now especially as we want to get kids back to school and our economy moving again, Coulter said in a statement. In Oakland County masks will continue to be mandatory by order of our health experts. Health officials in more rural parts of Michigan are more hesitant to make their own declarations. I really feel that if there are broad orders that are going to be issued, its much better for everyone if theyre issued statewide, said Lisa Peacock, health officer for the Health Department of Northwest Michigan, which covers Antrim, Charlevoix, Emmet, and Otsego counties. It just creates some consistency and some ease across the state." Peacock said local health officers have authority under the Public Health Code to replace Whitmers executive orders. Local health officials could fill in any gaps left by MDHHS and the Supreme Court ruling. Were in a public health emergency, and this virus has claimed over a million lives worldwide, Peacock said. Were in a public health emergency whether theres an official declaration or not. We have come so far together and we need people to continue staying the course and following these protective measures. Marcus Cheatham, health officer for the Mid-Michigan District Health Department, said hes waiting for the state to clear up uncertainties about which emergency orders remain in effect. Cheatham said he would issue local orders in lieu of state mandates. COVID is real, he said. Its in our community; its in our schools; its in our businesses, and we need to protect people." However, Cheatham said theres less consensus on what requirements should remain in rural counties. The Mid-Michigan District Health Department covers Clinton, Gratiot and Montcalm counties, which have a combined 1,230 confirmed cases. Cheatham said implementing strict emergency orders at the local level would be a pretty heavy lift politically." Thats why hes hoping the state provides more clarity soon. If you leave it up to locals youre definitely going to get really wildly varying sets of rules, which is not effective from a public health point of view, Cheatham said. If you have places where the disease is spreading, they will infect other places. To keep COVID under control, you have to have uniformity." Jeannine Taylor, public information officer for District Health Department 10, said local leaders are in consultation with state officials to determine the next steps for the 10 Northern Michigan counties under its jurisdiction. The department is responsible for residents in Crawford, Kalkaska, Lake, Manistee, Mason, Mecosta, Missaukee, Newaygo, Oceana and Wexford counties. Certainly theres concern that there would be an uptick (in cases) if people arent following any mitigation strategies to prevent further spread, Taylor said. Read more: Coronavirus executive orders remain in effect in Kalamazoo County, health officer warns Wayne County Executive Warren Evans said the governor, Legislature, and leaders of Michigans most populous counties should collaborate on a comprehensive, facts-based approach to control the spread of COVID-19. Evans said Whitmers orders have saved lives and slowed the spread of the virus, which hit Wayne County harder than anywhere else in the state. The Michigan Supreme Court may have struck down the states response to the pandemic, but it did not strike down COVID-19; it is still very much a threat in our communities until there is a vaccine, Evans said in a statement. It is time to set aside the political rancor and work collaboratively on a response that makes us as safe as possible. Evans said the Wayne County Public Health Division and his administration continue to review the state Supreme Courts ruling. Wayne County is home to 1.7 million residents and recorded 33,261 confirmed COVID-19 cases as of Saturday. The Kent County Health Department is urging residents to continue wearing masks and maintain social distance, but a spokesperson said its too early to know whether local health officials will issue its own mask mandate. Read more: Kent County urges residents to follow coronavirus safety measures amid statewide order confusion In a statement Monday, Kalamazoo County Health Officer Jim Rutherford said he is prepared to issue emergency orders under Public Health Code if necessary. The Ingham County Health Department, which is responsible for the health of 292,406 residents and Michigans capital, issued a series of emergency orders Sunday. Under the orders, mask-wearing in public is required, restaurants must operate at 50% capacity or a maximum of 125 customers, limits on public gatherings remain in place and businesses must screen employees for coronavirus symptoms. Violating the orders in either county constitutes a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment of up to 6 months, a fine of up to $200, or both. Vail said she issued orders in Ingham County, which is also home to Michigan State University, in light of the uncertainty surrounding Whitmers executive orders. Vail cited a recent surge in cases in a press release, saying "now is not the appropriate time to relax precautions. "Health and science experts agree that facial coverings, social distancing and health screenings are critical to controlling the virus, Vail said. We have made too much progress to regress. We are working hard to get our young people back to school, keep our businesses and government open, and make progress in our economic recovery. Businesses in Ingham County are required to deny service to customers who do not wear a face covering. Residents in Oakland and Ingham counties are required to wear masks while inside indoor public spaces and while outside when congregating around people if social distancing is not possible. The orders also applies to all K-12 students and student-athletes when they are unable to maintain 6-feet of social distance during practice and competition. The orders also applies to people using public transportation, while in a taxi or ride-sharing vehicle or school bus. Mask orders in Oakland and Ingham counties do not apply to the following situations: People who are younger than five years old People who can not medically tolerate a face covering While eating or drinking while seated at a food service establishment When attending a religious service at a house of worship When receiving a service for which temporary removal of a face-covering is necessary to perform the service When entering a business or are receiving a service and are asked to temporarily remove a face covering for identification purposes When communicating with someone who is hearing impaired or otherwise disabled and where the ability to see the mouth is essential to communication When actively engaged in a public safety role, including but not limited to law enforcement, firefighters, or emergency medical personnel, and where wearing a mask would seriously interfere in the performance of their public safety responsibilities When at a polling place for purposes of voting in an election When officiating at a religious service When giving a speech for broadcast or an audience COVID-19 PREVENTION TIPS In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus. Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible. Use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and carry hand sanitizer with you when you go into places like stores. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has also issued executive orders requiring people to wear face coverings over their mouth and nose while in public indoor and crowded outdoor spaces. See an explanation of what that means here. Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus. For more data on COVID-19 in Michigan, visit https://www.mlive.com/coronavirus/data/. Read more: Monday, Oct. 5: Latest developments on coronavirus in Michigan All over the place: Universities' COVID-19 data has no reporting standards Whitmer: Michigan Supreme Court undermined public health efforts amid COVID-19 pandemic Lawyer involved in Roscosmos embezzlement case to be tried in Moscow Region RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov 17:56 05/10/2020 MOSCOW, October 5 (RAPSI) A case against Chairman of Tretyakov & Partners law firm Igor Tretyakov charged with the 330-million-ruble (about $4.5 million) embezzlement from Roscosmos corporation will be considered by a court in Khimki, a town near Moscow, RAPSI was told in the courts press office. In late December, the case was returned to prosecutors, according to the lawyers attorney Stanislav Shostak. He is in detention now. Two other defendants, ex-CEO of the S.A. Lavochkin Scientific Union Sergey Lemeshevsky and chief of the Unions legal department Yekaterina Averyanova were also detained. Later, Averyanova admitted guilt and signed a deal with investigators in exchange for release from detention under house arrest. According to investigators, the defendants have stolen assets of Roscosmos by signing fraudulent contracts for provision of legal services with the law firm. All the works were allegedly performed by the corporations own specialists. The overall sum of payments to the firm reached 330 million rubles. Tretyakov pleads not guilty. UPPER THUMB Huron and Tuscola County Health Departments Public Health Officer Ann Hepfer said there is more direction needed before deciding what action to take regarding public health measures surrounding the coronavirus and fallout from the state's recent Supreme Court decision. The Michigan Supreme Court issued an opinion Oct. 2 stating that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer did not have the authority to issue executive orders under her emergency declarations past April 30. Whitmer issued a statement following the courts decision, stating that the order doesnt go into effect for 21 days. However, this matter has been debated in the legal community, and Whitmer has since issued a request to the court for clarification. Because of this order, there has been much talk in communities across the state regarding what orders remain in place, and what orders do not. Hepfer said the Tuscola and Huron County Health Departments are evaluating future actions to ensure the health and safety of the residents. Public health orders for isolation and quarantine are not affected by the supreme courts ruling, Hepfer said. These actions are authorized under the Michigan Public Health Code, a law that was enacted by the Michigan Legislature in 1978 and remains in effect. The public health code grants much ability to county public health officers, including the ability to issue directives such as those of the governor. As the health officer, I am granted the authority to issue such orders, she said. This is not something that is rushed into. It takes a lot of discussion with the board of health and the board of commissioners. However, Hepfer said there are a lot of discussions going on that will determine what happens next. This week there are many discussions and meetings being held in Lansing as to next steps, she said. I am not ready to say what will happen next. We need wait and see what comes out of Lansing before we rush to make this any more confusing than it already is. Hepfer said under the Public Health Code, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services director has executive directives that address mask usage, along with employee health and safety measures. Those actions were enacted outside the governors executive orders. Hepfer said she is currently recommending that the public continue to do what it has been doing, because it is working. Our schools are open, the prevalence rates of infection remain low, our businesses are open and factories are in production mode, and our unemployment rates are stable, she said. This leads me to believe that for the most part, most of us are wearing our masks, social distancing, screening our employees daily and sending those sick people home, adhering to hand-washing principles, avoiding large crowds, and getting tested when you are ill or put yourself at risk due to not adhering to the guidelines. Hepfer said before businesses decide to move forward outside the previous executive orders, they may want to speak to an attorney to make sure they are doing so legally. Before a business returns to its 'normal' business practices, I would advise them to speak to their attorney since there are still orders in place, she said. I believe that all businesses want to remain open and of course we want them open. If they return to their normal way of business and do not attend to the strict cleaning practices, do not encourage the social distancing or mask wearing, then we are going to see resurgence of infections that will lead to their closures. Closures will occur because they may not have enough well employees to work due to quarantines. This is not a threat. This is the reality of this infection. It remains highly contagious. Look at what happened in the White House. Last week, days after the first presidential debate, President Donald Trump announced that he and the first lady had been diagnosed with the coronavirus. Trump was later taken to Walter Reed Memorial Hospital for treatment. Over the weekend, several other White House staffers have been identified as being infected with the coronavirus. Hepfer said that the regions infection rates remain very low, but the work isnt over. I am waiting to see what the MDHHS takes as next steps, she said. Right now our rate of infection remains very low, our hospitals are not overrun with illness and our long term care agencies are no longer experiencing outbreaks. I have a very big concern that if let our guard down and go totally rogue then those rates of infection will surge and we will be forced to take further action. Hepfer said it is important that residents continue to stay the course by wearing masks, practicing social distancing, washing hands frequently and avoiding large events. Please protect your loved ones and those around you that would be most at risk for severe illness by adhering to these few basic mitigation measures, she said. When you are sick, even with a runny nose and cough, get tested and stay home from work, school, and anything else you have planned until you know you are not infected. This may mean you need to see a physician to rule out COVID-19. It might not be a serious illness for you, but could be life threatening for someone that you pass it onto. Mumbai, Oct 5 : Andhadhun, which released on this day two years ago, will always be special for actress Radhika Apte, who says she got a chance to work with likeminded people in the industry. "'Andhadhun' will always be close to my heart. It gave me yet another opportunity to collaborate with likeminded colleagues, who inspire me and help me grow my craft. Working with a director like Sriram Raghavan and co-actor Ayushmann Khurrana, was a great learning and experience," said Radhika. "Andhadhun" won Best Hindi Film award and Ayushmann received the Best Actor Award for his performance in the thriller, at the National Film Awards last year. "It feels lovely to have worked on a film which won itself a National award, went on to receive so much love from the audience and become a classic in itself," said Radhika. She was seen essaying the character of Sophie, a girl-next-door who falls in love with Ayushmann's character, a pianist who pretends to be blind. Meanwhile, the actress will be next seen in "A Call To Spy", as a real-life character of a spy, Noor Inayat Khan. MBABANE - Defiance! This best describe what happened at Mpolonjeni in Siteki a day after the Ludzidzini Council had issued a ruling in a long standing chieftaincy dispute. Instead of accepting the ruling, an aggrieved faction allegedly burnt down structures including ones at the areas umphakatsi (royal kraal). Information gathered was to the effect that the Ludzidzini Council ruled that one Mgumlane Gamedze, was the rightful inner council indvuna of the area after deliberations. It has been alleged that the faction had elevated a chief runner (umgijimi) to the position of inner councils indvuna. An indvuna plays a crucial role in a royal kraal as he heads the inner council and takes charge of all activities taking place. The activities include, among other things, allocating land. The name of the indvuna also features in graded tax documents. The verdict, which was issued last Tuesday, according to residents of the area, was necessitated by the fact that for some time, some residents did not want to accept Gamedze. Confirmed This was also confirmed by acting Ludzidzini Governor Chief Lusendvo Fakudze, when called yesterday. It is alleged that the aggrieved faction called the residents into a meeting held at one of the late Chief Macebo Dvubas sons homestead. The homestead in question is situated as few metres from the actual royal kraal. This was a day after they were informed of the ruling, which did not go down well with some of the areas residents. According to the residents, the purpose of the meeting was to inform them about the verdict issued by the council. I dont know how the faction relayed the message to the residents. The residents seemed to have been angered by what they were told by the faction. They proceeded to the royal kraal, where they burnt down the cattle byre and destroyed the fence at night, said one of the residents. Last Thursday, it is alleged that the residents proceeded to Majahencwala Magagulas homestead, where they petrol-bombed his house. Magagula confirmed the incident. He alleged that the assailants threw the petrol bomb through a window of the house he occupied. When the year 7 children of Preston High School return to class next Monday, their teachers' first priority will be helping them reconnect with each other. Other than a few weeks in term two, it will be the first time they have been in a room together since March, so the school is planning some group activities to help break the ice. Preston High School principal Sean Butler with year 7 students Nicola Butler and Quinn MacCartney. Credit:Eddie Jim "They came from different primary schools before they started here and didnt necessarily know each other very well in term one," principal Sean Butler said. "It does sort of feel like the beginning of school again, when you spend a lot of time helping kids get to know each other." On Monday, the first day of term four, the Andrews government gave year 7 students the all-clear to return to face-to-face learning on October 12 the same date as year 11 and 12 students with other senior levels to return on October 26. Hyundai Card headquarters in Seoul / Korea Times file By Park Jae-hyuk Hyundai Card's management has failed to resolve lingering conflicts with its union despite continuous negotiations which began in February when the latter was organized under the auspices of the Korean Finance & Service Workers' Union (KFSU). While the union has alleged the management is attempting to control union activities through stricter company regulations, the firm has denied the claim, saying the rules were not specifically aimed at union members. "All our employees are subject to the regulations," a Hyundai Card spokesman said. According to the Hyundai Card union, Monday, the internal rules allow the management to punish workers if they hold rallies, give speeches or wear ribbons, armbands or headbands without permission. Those who distribute "rebellious" leaflets can also face punishment. In addition, the company can cite "rebellious thoughts" and "bad conduct" as reasons to refuse to hire a particular jobseeker. If an employee files a civil lawsuit against the CEO, the company is able to suspend the plaintiff. "Those rules remind us of the military dictatorship in the 1980s," the union leader said. The union also complained of the company's code of ethics revised in August because it bans individual employees from responding to the press without following the PR department's guidelines. According to the union, Hyundai Motor Group's other financial subsidiaries Hyundai Capital and Hyundai Commercial are also facing similar restrictions as all of them are under the leadership of Vice Chairman Chung Tae-young. The Hyundai Capital union was organized in September last year. Hyundai Commercial workers formed their union around the same time as the Hyundai Card union was established in February. Back then, the KFSU cited forced resignations and unfair transfers as reasons to launch the unions. According to the umbrella union, Hyundai Card has dismissed over 500 workers home since late 2018 by carrying out reshuffles, closing seven marketing centers nationwide and urging several workers to resign. Given the card issuer is seeking to go public by the end of next year, the company is expected to face growing pressure from its investors who want to avoid possible risks caused by labor-management disputes. The card firm announced last year it would launch an initial public offering (IPO). According to industry officials, it hired NH Investment & Securities and Citigroup Global Markets Korea Securities as the lead underwriters. Its planned IPO has been regarded as a countermeasure to investors' possibly withdrawing their investments. In 2017, Affinity Equity Partners formed a consortium with GIC and AlpInvest Partners to acquire a 24 percent stake in Hyundai Card from General Electric for 370 billion won ($318 million). At that time, Hyundai Motor Group reportedly promised the consortium that it would list Hyundai Card by January 2020. Due to COVID-19, however, the IPO will likely be in 2021 at the earliest. If Hyundai Card successfully goes public, it will be the second card firm listed on the Korean stock market, following Samsung Card which was listed on the benchmark KOSPI in 2007. A 46-year-old woman has been released on bail after becoming the first person in Northern Ireland to appear in court accused of breaching coronavirus regulations. A 46-year-old woman has been released on bail after becoming the first person in Northern Ireland to appear in court accused of breaching coronavirus regulations. Sinead Corrigan of Dillon Court, Strabane is accused of holding three house parties despite the rules which forbid indoor gatherings of people from different households, and of breaching a prohibition notice. Enniskillen Magistrates Court, sitting in Omagh, heard she was handed the prohibition notice on Friday October 2 after police officers were called to the sheltered housing scheme where she lives. Ms Corrigan is also charged with breaching the prohibition order on Saturday October 3 when officers returned to discover another house party at her home. Appearing via videolink from Strand Road police station in Londonderry, Ms Corrigan indicated she understood the charges when they were put to her. A PSNI constable said he believed he could connect the accused to the charges. He told the court on Friday October 2 police were contacted by support staff at the sheltered housing scheme reporting that the accused had people in her flat. Police arrived and discovered an ongoing house party, they detected five persons present from four separate addresses, he said. A prohibition notice was authorised and served on the defendant. The following day, on Saturday October 3, in the interim period she had been served with two PNDs with regards the breaches, when police arrived and spoke to the defendant she said she didnt care about the regulations and would continue to party as soon as she could. There have been three parties in total. When police arrived (on Saturday), there were a total of eight persons present, one was hiding in the kitchen cupboards, one was sleeping in the bed. The defendant then was arrested at 1822 for contravening the prohibition notice, and she was charged later on that evening. The constable went on to tell the court that the accused has been causing a lot of annoyance to other residents in the area. The supported accommodation have been having massive issues with regards to the defendant they have said she is in constant breach of the coronavirus regulations, putting the residents and also the staff at risk with these ongoing house parties. She has shown she has no consideration to any conditions put on to her or any warnings that have been given to her in the past. She is happy to continue having parties. The staff have said they cant do anything more. The court heard the charges can only be dealt with by way of fines. A defence lawyer said Corrigans arrest had been a wake-up call for her. She has stated this has been the longest weekend of her life and is indeed a wake-up call for her, he said. She knows that she is treading on very thin ice and that any conditions that are imposed, she will adhere to them. District Judge Steven Keown said he has grave concerns over her comment to police around the coronavirus regulations. The fact she proposes to ignore the Covid regulations and intends to keep partying, well see if that is the case, if it is she will be in custody, he said. The judge released Corrigan on 500 bail with a number of conditions, including an approved address, a curfew of 11pm-7am and ban on drinking alcohol. She is set to appear again before the court on Thursday October 29. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian held a meeting with US Ambassador to Armenia Lynne Tracy, the Presidential Office told Armenpress. President Sarkissian introduced the current situation created as a result of the Azerbaijani military aggression against Artsakh and the borders of Armenia, specifically expressing concern over Turkeys open military-political support to Azerbaijan. The meeting sides highlighted the importance of the recent joint statement made by the leaders of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs countries (Russia, US and France). The Armenian President highlighted the need of unconditional stop of Turkeys participation to the ongoing operations, emphasizing the key role of the international community over the matter. Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan (Newser) A Florida man is in trouble after requesting a mail-in ballot for his dead wife, WFLA reports. Larry Wiggins was arrested Thursday in Manatee County and charged with requesting a mail-in ballot on behalf of another elector, a third-degree felony. His explanation? "I heard so much about ballots being sent in and people just having found them in different places," says the 62-year-old. "I feel like I haven't done anything wrong." Wiggins further claims he was just testing the system, didn't plan to use the ballot, and didn't try to replicate his late wife's signature on her application: "I said well, let me just send it in and see what's going to happen to see if they're actually going to send a ballot for her to vote," he says. story continues below Election officials caught the error when they checked the voter roll and noticed that Wiggins' wife died two years ago, per the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Then they noticed that the signature didn't match. "He wanted to test the system," says Manatee County Elections Supervisor Michael Bennett. "He did test the system, and guess what? It worked." Bennett, a Republican, says voter fraud is rare in Florida but he will prosecute such cases to the hilt. Wiggins, a registered Democrat, says he supports President Trump. He posted a $1,500 bond to get out of jail on Friday. (Read more mail-in voting stories.) Edinson Cavani is a "world star" who can handle the expectations that come with playing for Manchester United, according to club icon Ryan Giggs. United are expected to sign the 33-year-old, who has been without a club since leaving Paris Saint-Germain, after growing frustrated in their pursuit of Borussia Dortmund's Jadon Sancho. Cavani spent seven years at the Parc des Princes and departed as the club's all-time leading scorer with 200 goals. He was also prolific in his three seasons with Napoli in Serie A but some have questioned the deal due to the striker's age, as well as United's list of recent South American flops. However, Giggs - United's most decorated player - has backed the Uruguayan to succeed at Old Trafford, should a deal be completed. "It goes without saying that he's a world star," Wales boss Giggs said at a news conference. "My second game [as Wales manager] was against Uruguay and Cavani scored and I was really impressed with his work rate and quality. "It's about how quickly he beds in. We have seen South Americans who haven't really come and done it like [Radamel] Falcao, [Angel] Di Maria and [Alexis] Sanchez. "But Cavani, with his work rate, you expect him to make it." United have been in the market for a new player to supplement a frontline that already includes Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood. And in Cavani, Giggs believes his former side are signing the right type of player to spearhead their attack. United require more options in attack "I think United needed a centre-forward, needed that target man to score the goals and make that difference. Hopefully he can do that," Giggs said. "I think he will have no problem with the size of the club. He's got the experience to handle that. "But eyes will be on him straight away and if he does come, he'll have to hit the ground running because the pressure will be on." The participants of Korea Foundation's (KF) intensive learning program aimed at nurturing seasoned Korean language speakers pose in front of Jeju National University on Jeju Island, Sept. 22. The five-month program since Sept. 7 is to cope with President Moon Jae-in's New Northern and Southern policies, with 21 participants joining from Russia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and India. / Courtesy of KF By Yi Whan-woo Korea Foundation (KF) has introduced a new intensive learning program to train Korean language experts in the target countries of President Moon Jae-in's New Northern and Southern policies. Tasked with promoting Korea abroad under the wing of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the KF has been jointly running the program since Sept. 7 with Jeju National University and Jeju Free International City Development Center. The program will run through Feb. 24, with 21 students from Russia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and India taking relevant courses at the university. The students consist of Korean-language teachers, graduate and Ph.D. students and third- and fourth-year students at undergraduate schools, all at an intermediate Korean language level. The KF said it pushed ahead with the five-month program despite the COVID-19 pandemic, to help the Moon administration facilitate the New Northern and Southern policies. Introduced in 2017, the two policies are President Moon's signature diplomatic initiatives aimed at curbing its reliance on traditional security and economic partners like the United States and China and diversifying foreign affairs. The New Northern Policy is to engage more actively with countries situated north of the Korean Peninsula, while the New Southern Policy targets the countries situated south of the peninsula. The target countries such as Russia and ASEAN member states have seen increased demand for Korean-language classes and experts on Korea, according to the KF. "And this is how we came up with the idea of an intensive learning program, to tackle the insufficient number of Korean language instructors and to build a network of people," the foundation said. The students will spend a total of 400 hours to master speaking, writing and using Chinese characters used in Korean words. They will be given a seminar on teaching methods, too. To help the students better understand Korea, the program also includes classes on the country's history, politics, society, economy, culture and others. Visits to cultural sites on Jeju Island other parts of Korea will follow in the later part of the program. Headquartered on Jeju Island, the KF noted the program being offered on the country's resort island "is meaningful and significant," as most other international exchange programs have been offered in Seoul and the capital region. The program is especially noteworthy, according to the foundation, because it is taking place on the 15th anniversary of Jeju being designated as the "island of world peace" by the government. "The timing of the program is expected to help the island take a leap as a spot for global exchanges," it said. As the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers trick-or-treating a high-risk activity for contracting COVID-19, the City of Dearborn strongly discourages residents from participating this year, instead recommending that households find safer alternatives to celebrating the holiday in 2020. We understand that trick-or-treating is an important tradition for many families, said Mayor John B. OReilly, Jr. However, maintaining public health is vital and we need to avoid spreading this deadly disease as much as possible. Instead of trick-or-treating or trunk-or-treating, the City encourages residents to find fun, alternative ways to celebrate the holiday. This could include hosting a virtual costume party, participating in a socially-distanced scavenger hunt, carving pumpkins, and having a Halloween-themed movie night with those in your household. For those who feel they must carry out the tradition, the City would like to remind residents that there is no way to make it completely safe; however, there are some guidelines to make it less risky. While we feel residents should not trick-or-treat this year, there are several ways to mitigate risk, although there is no foolproof way to keep it entirely safe, said Mayor OReilly. For those who are going to continue the tradition, despite warnings, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services offers several guidelines for parents with trick-or-treaters and for homeowners passing out candy. For example, trick-or-treaters and those handing out candy should wear masks and stay six feet apart as much as possible. Tips for trick-or-treaters and parents: *Share with your children that this year may be different than last but let them know some of the new ways you plan to celebrate and still have lots of fun. *Talk with children about safety and social distancing guidelines and expectations. Keep a six-foot distance from others not in your group. *Participate in one-way trick-or-treating and guide children to stay to the right to ensure social distancing. *Trick or treat with people you live with. *Avoid congregating in groups around houses. *Wear a face mask covering both mouth and nose. *A costume mask (such as for Halloween) is not a substitute for a cloth mask. *Do not wear a costume mask over a protective cloth mask if wearing both causes difficulty breathing. Instead, consider using a Halloween-themed cloth mask. *Only go to houses with safety measures in place. *Check out halloween2020.org to find exciting activities and ways to celebrate Halloween this year based on levels of COVID risks in your area. Tips for homeowners: *Use duct tape to mark six-foot lines in front of home and leading to driveway/front door. *Position a distribution table between yourself and trick-or-treaters. *Distribute candy on a disinfected table to eliminate direct contact. *Consider handing out candy in an open space where distancing is possible, rather than from the front door. *Consider a neighborhood costume parade; it is an easy way to keep safe space between children. For the CDC guidelines surrounding Halloween and a full list of safer alternatives to trick-or-treating visit https://bit.ly/3cEdJaT. Source: City of Dearborn WASHINGTON President Donald Trumps long-hidden tax returns leaked out. His first debate performance ignited a firestorm over white supremacy. He was hospitalized for COVID-19 after months of playing down the threat of a pandemic that has killed more than 200,000 Americans. And that was just this past week. Trumps reelection team, battered on all sides, now enters the final month of the campaign grappling with deficits in the polls, a shortage of cash and a candidate who is at least temporarily sidelined. The crises, many of Trumps own making, have come so quickly that they are hard to keep straight. Recordings revealed that he acknowledged minimizing the dangers of the coronavirus earlier this year. A blockbuster story raised questions over whether he privately belittled members of the military. And even the first lady was captured on tape expressing disdain for having to decorate the White House for Christmas. Are the political gods simply saying, Your run is over? That four years of chaos has caught up to you? asked Michael Steele, former head of the Republican Party. He predicts the presidents coronavirus diagnosis will overwhelm all the other massive storylines. We are a caring, forgiving people, Steele said of the American public. But while they may show him empathy, they also wont forget that he didnt do all the things he needed to protect himself and the American people. The presidents team is launching what it calls Operation MAGA to propel his campaign forward, even as he was being treated Sunday at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Although Trumps medical team raised the possibility that he could be released as early as Monday, significant questions remained about the presidents health and schedule. The challenges facing the reelection team are enormous. Both heads of Trumps political apparatus campaign manager Bill Stepien and Republican National Committee head Ronna McDaniel tested positive for COVID-19 this week. Also infected: several outside advisers who had been involved in the presidents debate preparations last week, including former White House senior adviser Kellyanne Conway and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. And that comes just days after Brad Parscale, who was demoted from his campaign manager post over the summer but remained in a senior role, was hospitalized. Police were called to his Florida home after his wife said he had a firearm and was acting suicidal. Deputy campaign manager Justin Clark is temporarily overseeing the campaigns headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. Stepien organized a late Saturday staff call to project an optimistic tone, even as he acknowledged the loss of the campaigns best asset, the president. We built a team thats stronger than any one of us singularly, he said. With early voting already underway in many states, Trump has consistently trailed Democrat Joe Biden in national polling even as the margins in most battleground states have been closer. This race is going to be super close. This is officially October. Its officially game time, Stepien said. These are crazy times. These weeks feel like months with the amount of action and news packed into each week. Vice President Mike Pence outlined plans to launch a new effort to ramp up campaign appearances by Trump lieutenants who havent been infected. Pence himself will star in the new effort, in addition to Trumps children. Pence promised that he and the first family would begin fanning out across the country aggressively in person after Wednesdays vice presidential debate. Weve got a campaign to run, Pence said. I promise you, this president, as soon as his doctors say so, hes going to be back out there. But Pences business as usual approach faced questions. Although Pence tested negative for the virus on Sunday, COVID-19 can have a lengthy incubation period. Pence attended a Sept. 26 White House event where Trump announced his Supreme Court pick. Several attendees at that event have since tested positive. Pence also has interacted with key aides since then who have also been exposed. With Trump still not out of the woods, in the words of his doctors, Pence plans to travel to Arizona on Thursday, Indiana on Friday and Florida on Saturday for events rather than isolating himself after potential exposure and trying to protect himself from contracting the virus anywhere else. Were in a campaign. We have a month to go, senior campaign adviser Jason Miller said Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press. We see Joe Biden and Kamala Harris out there campaigning. The Trump campaign was already facing a significant cash deficit to Biden, and now the president has been sidelined from in-person fundraising as well as his signature rallies just as the campaign was about to ramp up his travel schedule. Plans for upcoming events in Florida, Wisconsin, Arizona and Nevada were all scrapped after his diagnosis, and it remained unclear when or if the president would be able to resume campaigning. Hes losing, and the debate was a disaster, and the campaign is imploding, said Republican strategist Steve Schmidt, a vocal Trump critic. The presidents hospitalization also underscores what has long been the Trump campaigns greatest challenge: its inability to shift the national discourse away from the virus. For months, even as the campaign has tried to frame the election as a choice between Trump and Biden, the race has been perceived largely as a referendum on the presidents handling of the pandemic. And Trumps tone on the virus has changed little despite his illness. In a video released late Saturday from the hospital, he expressed no contrition for his handling of the virus and still spoke of quickly moving beyond the pandemic. He is a struggling incumbent, and this all makes reelection much harder. More importantly, the more the nation is discussing the pandemic, the harder the debate gets for the president, said Julian Zelizer, a presidential historian at Princeton University. Still, Zelizer said it would be premature to count Trump out, with a full month to go until Election Day. He has three tools still at his disposal unyielding Republican loyalty, the Electoral College and the power of the presidency, Zelizer said. His ability to tie up voting and spread disinformation remains formidable. For some Democrats, burned by Trumps late surge to defeat Hillary Clinton in 2016, Nov. 3 cant come soon enough. Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville declared: Lets go to the polls tomorrow. ___ Peoples reported from New York. Associated Press writer Jill Colvin in Washington contributed to this report. LINCOLN Nebraska Lt. Gov. Mike Foley joined 20 GOP colleagues in signing a letter of support for Judge Amy Coney Barrett, who was nominated for the U.S. Supreme Court by President Donald Trump. The Republican Lieutenant Governors Association sent the letter to the U.S. Senate. In it, they urged the Senate to swiftly confirm her appointment. Our request is not founded on partisan affiliation, they said. Rather, we agree that Judge Barretts long record of upholding the Constitution and defending the rule of law make her an exceedingly qualified candidate to serve on our nations highest court. The letter went on to express hope that the nomination process could proceed without the vitriol of past confirmations and that a full nine-member court would be in place to consider any election challenges. Barrett was named to replace the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. A partisan divide greeted her nomination, as Democrats argued that the court vacancy should be filled by the next president while Republicans pushed for a rapid confirmation. A COVID-19 outbreak among the nations leaders has created uncertainty about how the confirmation process will be carried out. WASHINGTON: The U.S. Supreme Court returned to work on Monday for the first time since liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburgs death, opening its new term as Senate Republicans pursued quick confirmation of President Donald Trumps conservative nominee to replace her. With eight justices rather than the usual nine, the court was hearing arguments in two cases on Monday, starting a term due to run through next June that includes several major cases including one that will decide the fate of the Obamacare healthcare law. Its last term ended in July. At least at the outset of the term, the cases are being argued as they were at the end of the last term by teleconference because of the coronavirus pandemic. Before the first argument began, Chief Justice John Roberts paid tribute to Ginsburg, calling her a dear friend and treasured colleague" and sent our condolences to her children, extended family and countless admirers." Roberts said that a memorial service will at some point be held in the courtroom. Ginsburg died on Sept. 18 at age 87. Trump on Sept. 26 nominated federal appeals court judge Amy Coney Barrett to replace her, and asked the Republican-led Senate to confirm her by the Nov. 3 U.S. election. If confirmed, Barrett would give the court a 6-3 conservative majority. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell reiterated on Saturday that Barretts confirmation hearings, due to be held next week, will proceed as planned even though two Republicans on the Judiciary Committee had contracted the coronavirus. Trump himself remained hospitalized with COVID-19 on Monday. Trump has said he wants Barrett to be confirmed before Election Day so she could cast a decisive vote in any election-related dispute, potentially in his favor. He has said he expects the Supreme Court to decide the outcome of the election, though it has done so only once - the disputed 2000 contest ultimately awarded to Republican George W. Bush. The justices began hearing arguments in the new terms first case, which centered on a system used by the state of Delaware that requires some of its courts to be ideologically balanced. The justices were hearing the states appeal defending its law, which requires that no more than half of the judges on certain benches can be affiliated with one political party. The second case was a dispute between Texas and New Mexico over rights to the waters of the Pecos River that runs through both states. On Wednesday, the justices weigh a multibillion-dollar software copyright dispute between Alphabet Incs Google and Oracle Corp. The case involves Oracles accusation that Google infringed its software copyrights to build the Android operating system used in smartphones. Two big cases are scheduled for November. On Nov. 10, a week after Election Day, the court is due to hear arguments in a case in which a group of Democratic-led states including California and New York are striving to preserve the 2010 Affordable Care Act, better known as Obamacare. Republican-led states and Trumps administration are waging a court battle to strike down Obamacare. Obamacare has helped roughly 20 million Americans obtain medical insurance either through government programs or through policies from private insurers made available in Obamacare marketplaces. It also bars insurers from refusing to cover people with pre-existing medical conditions. Republican opponents have called the law an unwarranted intervention by government in health insurance markets. The Supreme Court previously upheld it 5-4 in a 2012 ruling in which conservative Chief Justice Roberts cast the crucial vote. It rejected another challenge 6-3 in 2015. Ginsburg was in the majority both times. Barrett has criticized both rulings. The court hears another major case on Nov. 4 concerning the scope of religious-rights exemptions to certain federal laws. The dispute arose from Philadelphias decision to bar a local Roman Catholic entity from participating in the Democratic-governed citys foster-care program because the organization prohibits same-sex couples from serving as foster parents. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor New Delhi: Calling for attention to cases of sexual violence against women and girls in India, the UN in India said the alleged rape and murder in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras and Balarampur are a reminder that those from disadvantaged social groups are at greater risk of gender-based violence. In a statement, the UN in India said it is essential that authorities ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice speedily and families are empowered to seek timely justice, social support, counselling, healthcare and rehabilitation. The recent cases of alleged rape and murder in Hathras and Balarampur are another reminder that despite the impressive progress made on a number of social indicators, women and girls from disadvantaged social groups face additional vulnerabilities and are at greater risk of gender-based violence, it said. The steps being taken by the Indian government to strengthen safety measures for women and girls are welcome and urgent, the United Nations said. We support the Prime Ministers call for strict action against the culprits. Entrenched social norms and behaviour of men and boys that lead to gender-based violence must be addressed, it said. The UN stands committed to providing continued support to the government and civil society to address violence against women. As we fight the challenge of COVID-19 with the determination to build back better India, building respectful relationships devoid of prejudices and gender biases is a top priority, it added. The recent case of violence and sexual assault of a Dalit woman in Hathras has led to nation-wide protests and agitations. Deputy Country Representative and Officer in Charge, UN Women, Nishtha Satyam said, We fully stand by and wholeheartedly support the statement given by our Resident Coordinator regarding the brutal rape and murder of two girls in Hathras and Balrampur. We unequivocally condemn the heinous act and demand that perpetrators be brought to book, that justice is fast-tracked and the safety of the victims family is ensured, she said. A 19-year-old woman was allegedly raped at a village in Hathras by four men on September 14. She was admitted to Aligarh Muslim Universitys Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College and Hospital and later shifted to a Delhi hospital on Monday in an extremely critical condition with spinal injuries, paralysis and cuts in her tongue. She breathed her last on Tuesday. Her body was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging that the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night. In Uttar Pradeshs Balrampur district, a 22-year-old Dalit woman died after allegedly being raped by two men. The victims mother has alleged that that the rapists broke the legs and back of her daughter, a charge denied by the police. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor Monese to migrate European and UK account holders onto Thought Machine's core banking platform Thought Machine's modern core banking technology combined with Monese's mobile-first approach will unlock new features and capabilities for millions of customers LONDON and SINGAPORE, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Monese, the popular pan-European banking service that provides instant and localised mobile money accounts in 31 countries, today announces it will adopt Thought Machine's cloud native core banking platform Vault. Monese, which provides accounts to both consumers and businesses, will migrate its existing customer base onto Thought Machine's cloud native platform, as it focuses on strengthening the company's core technology platform and its banking infrastructure. Vault's unique product building toolkit, known as Smart Contracts, empowers banks and fintech companies to build new products rapidly while radically improving the onboarding and ongoing customer experience. This is in stark contrast to banks who are constrained by inflexible legacy technology. Vault will provide Monese with the cloud technology foundation required to deliver pioneering customer experiences at speed, and enhanced resilience for millions of its customers. This partnership brings together two fintech companies with a shared vision for the future of financial services and a deep passion for engineering excellence in product development. Founded in 2014 by former Google engineer Paul Taylor, Thought Machine brings truly cloud native technology to core banking. Thought Machine names Lloyds Banking Group, Atom, SEB and Standard Chartered as clients and users of its platform, Vault. Monese was launched in 2015 by entrepreneur Norris Koppel after his first-hand experience of the hassle involved with opening a bank account in a new country. With its mobile money accounts, portability across 31 countries, and its availability in 14 languages, Monese is instant, on-demand and financially inclusive. Its UK and European accounts will be powered by Vault to enable faster product delivery, greater resilience and a more seamless banking experience for new and existing customers. Norris Koppel, CEO at Monese, comments: "At Monese, our goal is to provide truly modern portable banking services so customers have the freedom to thrive wherever they are in the world. By adopting Vault, we unlock new possibilities to deliver a seamless banking experience that will inevitably help us reach more customers." Paul Taylor, CEO at Thought Machine, adds: "The most ambitious, and most dominant technology companies, all run their systems entirely in the cloud. Monese has now joined an elite group of financial services companies which deliver innovation, security, and resilience to its customers, at scale. Vault's hyper flexible core banking platform enables its clients to build and deliver banking services exactly as they want. We are excited to see Monese deliver on its vision of financial freedom using our truly cloud native platform." About Thought Machine Thought Machine was founded in 2014 with a mission to enable banks to deploy modern systems and move away from the legacy IT platforms that plague the banking industry. We do this through our cloud native core banking platform, Vault. This next generation system has been written from scratch as an entirely cloud native platform. It does not contain a single line of code which is legacy, or pre-cloud. Founded by entrepreneur Paul Taylor, Thought Machine's customers include Lloyds Banking Group, SEB, Standard Chartered and Atom bank. We are currently a team of more than 350 people spread across offices in London and Singapore and have raised more than GBP110m in funding from Eurazeo Growth, Draper Esprit, SEB, British Patient Capital, IQ Capital, Playfair Capital, Lloyds Banking Group and Backed. For more information visit thoughtmachine.net or email [email protected] About Monese Monese is one of the most popular and trusted pan-European banking services that provides instant and portable mobile money accounts. Launched in 2015 by entrepreneur Norris Koppel, after his first-hand experience of the hassle involved with opening a bank account in a new country, Monese is working towards giving people the freedom to thrive anywhere. With its multi-currency accounts, its portability across 31 countries, and availability in 14 languages, Monese allows people and businesses to bank like a local across the UK and Europe. For more information on Monese, visit: http://www.monese.com, or email [email protected] Logo - https://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20201002/2936839-1LOGO SOURCE Thought Machine A publicly financed fiber network spanning Multnomah County would cost $1 billion, according to a new study, a price tag that could make it prohibitively expensive even if its technically possible. The county-sponsored study sought to quantify gaps in broadband service across the county and identify possible ways to close those divides. It concluded a countywide network could pay for itself if enough customers sign up, but warned of considerable financial risk if subscriber numbers dont meet targets. The $250,000 study found that smaller, more targeted networks would be far less expensive but would be less efficient and likely would require significant government subsidies. County leaders who floated the possibility of building the nations largest public internet service two years ago showed little enthusiasm for the project when discussing the new study Monday. It has delineated just how complicated just how complicated and expensive the idea would be, said county Commissioner Sharon Meieran. Commissioner Lori Stegmann suggested the county should look in other directions. There are less expensive options we could implement more quickly, she said. Residential internet systems are very expensive to build because they require running wires to each home. That means markets are typically dominated by one or two providers, and less competition often produces higher prices. That can leave poorer households with substandard service or none at all. The effects of that disparity are especially acute during the pandemic, when households across Oregon are dependent on fast internet service for work and school. Publicly owned networks provide a tantalizing alternative, but local governments may lack the technical expertise to build or oversee their own projects. And any finished network must win customers away from established providers, like Comcast, which may lock subscribers into long-term service contracts that prevent them from switching. Multnomah County commissioned its study last year, splitting the cost with Gresham, Portland, Wood Village, Troutdale and Fairview. Its findings were no surprise: Portland once contemplated a citywide fiber network but abandoned the notion when its own 2007 study pegged the total cost at $500 million. The new study issued Monday, from consultant CTC Technology & Energy, found internet service is nearly universal throughout Multnomah County. Ninety-six percent of homes have some form of home internet access. But low-income households are much less likely to have connections, and the costs represent a disproportionate burden on those families. There is a digital equity gap in Multnomah County, Meieran said. Internet service has proven indispensable during the pandemic, she said, so it behooves Multnomah County to find a viable path to expand access. One possibility: the countys consultants found Multnomah County could set up free public Wi-Fi connections in 600 public locations for about $3 million. However, there is some evidence that public networks can be viable in smaller communities that require lower capital outlays. Hillsboro is currently building Oregons largest municipal fiber network, wiring up schools and homes in hopes of creating an affordable alternative for residents. It plans to launch service in some areas next month. The city has committed $28 million its HiLight service. It has already wired local schools and plans to begin serving homes in the Shute Park neighborhood and the new South Hillsboro development in November. The city says there are 1,700 residential and commercial addresses within the initial service area, which will come online about 18 months behind Hillsboros initial schedule. The city has a 10-year buildout plan to serve every home in its jurisdiction. HiLight will charge $55 a month for superfast 1 gigabit service, a third less than what Comcast advertises for similar speeds. (Comcasts price is a short-term, promotional discount.) Hillsboro also plans to offer discounts to low-income households, at $10 a month for gigabit service. Thats the same as what Comcast charges for its low-income plan, but its speeds are limited to 25 megabits per second, 98% slower than Hillsboros corresponding plan. Correction: Hillsboro originally planned to launch its fiber network in the spring of 2019, so next months launch will be about 18 months behind schedule -- not two years, as this article previously indicated. -- Mike Rogoway | twitter: @rogoway | 503-294-7699 - Simon Agbeko, a popular Ghanaian Lance Corporal who went viral in the past for his humanitarian works, has been honoured - The police officer has been fixing street lights, cleaning chocked gutters, supporting disabled people and more around Accra - His good work was sighted by the Humanitarian Awards Ghana and Simon was so grateful PAY ATTENTION: Help us change more lives, join TUKO.co.kes Patreon programme- https://www.patreon.com/tuko Lance Corporal Simon Agbeko, the Ghanaian police officer renowned for his numerous charity work and service to the people of Ghana, has received a great honour. Ghanaian policeman who cleans gutters & helps disabled people gets humanitarian award Source: Pulse.com.gh Source: UGC According to a report sighted by TUKO.co.ke on Pulse.com.gh, Simon was awarded by the Humanitarian Awards Ghana for his incredible service to others. It is reported that the honour is indicative of one who has demonstrated leadership skills and made a difference in the community as the award is given to those who personify the highest standards of service and character. The Lance Corporal is an officer with the Accra Regional Police Command who has been changing the lives of the physically challenged on the street in Accra and shown that he's a true citizen and a true patriot in the country. PAY ATTENTION: Click 'See First' under 'Follow' Tab to see Tuko.co.ke news on your FB feed The junior police officer also filled some deadly potholes which threatened the lives of drivers and passengers in Accra for temporal usage, as TUKO.co.ke once reported. Speaking about his award, Simon mentioned that it meant a lot to him and he was very excited by it. "I am honoured and excited to have received this award. It really does mean a lot to get an award in honour of a man who was a visionary and had a dream," he said. TUKO.co.ke previously told how the policeman assisted over 15 physically challenged persons to receive free National Health Insurance Identity cards. The selfless officer donated a huge chunk of his salary to cater for the costs of the cards. He personally handed the government's health insurance cards to the beneficiaries as part of his effort to give back to society. Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly. Heroine ruined my life and put my children at risk - Whitney Wanjiku | Tuko TV Source: TUKO.co.ke An order that can save lives from COVID-19 By Robert Gordon, Director Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Today the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is issuing an epidemic order to sustain rules that have protected Michiganders lives for months: requiring masks, limiting gatherings, and safeguarding nursing homes. A divided Michigan Supreme Court struck down these requirements on Friday. Our order today flows from a legal authority not at issue in Fridays case. It is important we stay the course weve been on. When it comes to defeating COVID-19, were all in this together. The science is clear: wearing masks can reduce the chance of transmitting COVID by about 70%. Even with masks, transmission is likeliest when people are within 6 feet of each other for 15 minutes, especially indoors. The failure to take proper precautions can enable the disease to spreadwhether in an East Lansing bar or at the White House. When Michigan was hard hit by the virus in March, strong orders based on science played an integral part in our effective response. Michigan initially had the third most deaths per capita in the nation. Our response included firm requirements for individuals to stay home (March 23, strengthened April 9) and to wear masks (April 24). By June, cases had fallen dramatically, but they began to grow, partly due to outbreaks linked to bars. We responded by closing bars (July 1 and 29) and strengthening the requirements around masks (July 17). The curve flattened again. Today, Michigan has fallen to 10th for total fatalities. That ranking translates into thousands more Michiganders who are still alive. Further thousands are free from debilitating conditions that many COVID survivors face. Now risks around COVID are rising: students are back in school, colder weather is moving us indoors, and flu season is approaching. The number of cases has been creeping up, too. We are tired of the virus, but the virus isnt tired of us. As in the spring, orders are still critical to make clear the shared norms that each of us must follow so all of us can stay healthy. For those of us who sometimes waverand after seven months, thats most of usorders require us, as a matter of law and civic responsibility, to stay the course and protect each other. Scientific research has repeatedly linked mandates to reductions in COVIDs spread. Case studies do too. In the spring, Louisiana was hit as hard as Michigan. They waited until mid-July to require masks. If our total fatality rate by population for COVID were the same as Louisiana, then 4,800 more Michiganders would no longer be with us. Arizona and Mississippi saw little of the virus through April. They hoped for the best. Their cumulative death rates by population are higher than ours too. In May, in Wisconsin, another divided supreme court invalidated emergency orders much as ours did. Bars threw open their doors, and cases began a rapid rise. Now Wisconsin has some of the highest COVID rates in the country. What happened in Wisconsin can happen in Michigan. In fact, we are seeing signs of it already in the Upper Peninsula, where counties near the Wisconsin border have experienced sharp increases in COVID. On Friday, Governor Whitmer moved the Upper Peninsula back a stage in her reopening plan. Our state Supreme Courts ruling invalidated that decision. MDHHS order today largely reinstates it. That is important not just to protect the Upper Peninsula, but also to protect the rest of the state from a repeat of the springs tragedies. Todays order is lawful under the Michigan Supreme Courts recent decision. That decision rested on something called the nondelegation doctrinea legal notion never before used to invalidate a Michigan statute, and not used to invalidate a federal statute for 85 years. Two decades ago, when I was a law clerk, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a nondelegation challenge by an 8-1 vote in an opinion by Justice Antonin Scalia. Since then, the doctrine has become popular on the anti-government right, and a 4-3 Michigan majority has now used it to invalidate a 75-year old Michigan law. Even so, the legal authority under which I am acting is narrower, established specifically in response to the Spanish flu a century ago. Compared to the Governors orders, my actions are narrower too. Just as they stand up for human life, they stand up to legal scrutiny. We wont need these orders forever. I have asked for feedback on todays order, and I pledge to review the specific elements by October 30. The day cant come soon enough when a vaccine and therapeutic drugs make normal life safer again. For now, public action is critical to saving Michiganders lives. # # # Opinion Article 5 October 2020 Our industry is hurting. While we're optimists, totally convinced that we can beat the two-year recovery our financial protagonists are forecasting, the world of Wall Street may soon see things very differently. I'm not a betting man, but I've got a hunch that mergers are in the offing and may even be essential to keep our industry afloat. Advertisements Before we look at our near-future state of affairs, let's backtrack to the largest hospitality M&A deal in the century so far. When announced in the spring of 2016, Marriott's merger with Starwood was controversial. Would it be approved by the FTC and various regulatory bureaus or would it represent a clear case of antitrust law abuse? How would loyal users of a Starwood brand react to being part of a larger organization? What was the impact on the competition? Would the various brands cannibalize each other? The result thus far has been a stronger Marriott and the genesis of an extraordinary loyalty program - Bonvoy. Loyalty guests now have many more options to keep accumulating points while staying anywhere in the world and at any property tier, all within the company's family of brands. This was a win-win for Marriott and the customer. Importantly for today, the approval of this consolidation has also established a precedent for future large-scale mergers. If you look at the stats, the most influential hospitality provider in today's world is no longer Marriott but Airbnb. Data from Europe on the post-Covid recovery suggests that travelers are searching and returning in greater numbers to home sharing accommodations than to the traditional hotel segment. This should not be overly surprising, given the shock that our economy has experienced this past year and the lurking recession in our midst. For over a decade now, sharing economy lodgings have generally dodged paying the same level of commercial taxes as hotels, and they've been able to extend this cost advantage to travelers by offering lower average rates than traditional properties. As a result, platforms like Airbnb are now very often viewed as the cheaper way to go, earning the 'first look' of guests over hotels. This is why leveling the playing field has been such an urgent battle cry. Compounding this, with physical distancing now ingrained in our social fabric, many of the services and amenities offered by traditional properties no longer have much perceived value to many guests. For instance, why stay at a hotel if the restaurant and spa are permanently closed? Many guests likely now prefer the anonymity and touchless nature of alternate lodging providers because they infer less contact and thus less virus-related stress. It's worth reminding everyone at this point that hotel brands rarely own their own properties or even their management contracts. They are, in effect, franchisors. Typically, the franchisor holds most of the cards; the franchisee pays or potentially loses their flag. But what happens when every franchisee elects not to pay, not out of spite or protest but simply the lack of funds? Obvious to everyone, the first half of 2020 was disastrous. Few properties were even close to breakeven; many were closed. It would be fascinating to query the brands to see what percentage of franchisees were in arrears on payments. These sorts of ominous contractual disputes can get buried on a financial statement as they can be sandwiched within the accounts receivable column and not logged as lost income. Coupled with the renewed pressure from home sharing juggernauts like Airbnb for customers' wallets, this added financial stress on the brands' operating statements could prove to be more than enough to trigger the matchmaking process. Share prices are still a lot lower than they were in 2019 and many players may be barely staying above water. The timing may be ripe for big moves in order to maintain liquidity and competitiveness. The big six (Accor, Choice, Hilton, IHG, Marriott and Wyndam), each with thousands of hotels, have the corporate infrastructures in place to effectively double or triple the number of properties they can manage without collapsing in the chaos of such a reshuffling. From the modern guest's perspective, they don't really care about the underlying brand or franchisor, nor are most of them even aware of who manages what. All they want is easy access to rooms in their desired location and at the price point they can afford, and good loyalty perks certainly wouldn't hurt either. While this is but one potential scenario, it is worth ruminating on for your property - independent, flagged or tied into any other brand outside of these big six - because such mergers have sweeping implications for the average rates in any market as well as channel distribution strategies and overall asset values. Following the closing of the transaction which is subject to customary regulatory approvals and expected to be completed within the first half of 2021 ISPBM will be merged into REYL, creating a sizeable international private banking group headquartered in Geneva with close to 400 employees, AUM of over CHF 18 Bln and regulatory shareholders' equity of about CHF 250 Mln. In addition to Switzerland, the bank will be present in the EU, Latin America, the Middle East and the Far East. The partnership will enable Fideuram - ISP PB to strengthen its international private banking activities, especially in promising growth areas and to continue playing a leading role in the ongoing consolidation of the Swiss financial sector. It also confirms the choice of Switzerland as the headquarter of the international private banking activities of Fideuram - ISP PB and adds significant scale to its existing presence in the country. With its distinctive track record, leading domestic private banking footprint and overall financial strength, Fideuram - ISP PB offers REYL a strong cultural fit and multiple growth catalysts whilst safeguarding its entrepreneurial DNA and innovative business model. REYL will continue to drive its successful 360 organic growth strategy, centered on delivering innovative solutions to its clients transversally across its five business lines: Wealth Management, Entrepreneur & Family Office Services, Corporate Advisory & Structuring, Asset Services and Asset Management. Recent initiatives such as Asteria Investment Managers (Swiss regulated fund management specialized in impact investing) and Alpian (new Swiss digital bank for mass affluent clients), will be maintained and benefit greatly from the strategic partnership. Fideuram - ISP PB and REYL's management have jointly defined a long-term, commonly-agreed strategic plan, that will provide a robust foundation on which to build a leading business in the coming years. The transaction will bring benefits, including a reinforced institutional framework and balance sheet, cross-referrals across all business segments, seeding capital for new product initiatives, placement, syndication and co-advisory opportunities, as well a vastly expanded distribution network. REYL's partners Francois Reyl, Pasha Bakhtiar, Nicolas Duchene, Thomas Fontaine, Christian Fringhian and Lorenzo Rocco di Torrepadula will retain significant stakes in the Swiss-based bank and will remain committed to its development and strategy for the long term as well as its day-to-day management. "The strategic partnership with REYL," commented Tommaso Corcos, CEO of Fideuram Intesa Sanpaolo Private Banking, "confirms the Intesa Sanpaolo Group's strategy, which has long been focused on building a Wealth Management & Protection Company. It also fits within the broader process of strengthening and repositioning of our Private Banking Division's foreign activities, especially in Switzerland, the leading market for international activities. Following the acquisition of the Morval Group in 2018, this transaction allows us to focus more decisively on this growing sector, which is resilient to crises and subject to an ongoing consolidation process." "We are very excited," says Francois Reyl, CEO of REYL, "about this agreement, which marks a new chapter in REYL's corporate history. Fideuram ISP-PB is the ideal partner for REYL and we cannot be more pleased to have the opportunity to build together a leading new international private banking player, operating from Switzerland yet with global ambitions. We look forward to building lasting ties with our new colleagues and to tackling all future challenges and opportunities working as a fully integrated team. We found in Fideuram ISP PB not only a strong strategic fit, but also a partner with an acute understanding of the entrepreneurial world and highly compatible values that place human considerations at the heart of all corporate initiatives. The combination of nimbleness and scale driven by a shared entrepreneurial vision creates the perfect conditions to achieve success in the current environment." REYL were advised on this transaction by Deloitte SA and Schellenberg Wittmer Ltd. Fideuram was advised by Studio Pedersoli, PwC Strategy&, CFM. About Fideuram ISP PB and ISPBM Headquartered in Milan, Fideuram Intesa Sanpaolo Private Banking is the no.1 Italian domestic private banking player and a key affiliate of Intesa Sanpaolo Group, consolidating all of Group's private banking activities. As at 30 June 2020, Fideuram ISP PB had 3,171 employees, 5,801 private bankers, AUM of CHF 259 Bln and Net Inflows of more than CHF 6.0 Bln entrusted by more than 793,000 clients. Founded by the Zanon Valgiurata family, headquartered in Geneva with offices in Lugano, London, Monaco, Bahrain, the Cayman Islands, Buenos Aires and Montevideo, ISPBM traces its foundation back to 1974 and was incorporated into Fideuram in 2018. As at 31 December 2019, ISPBM managed assets of over CHF 5.1 Bln and employed 176 professionals. About REYL Founded in 1973, the REYL is an independent diversified banking group with offices in Switzerland (Geneva, Zurich, Lugano), Europe (London, Luxembourg, Malta) and the rest of the world (Singapore, Dubai). As at 30 June 2020, REYL managed assets in excess of CHF 13 billion and employed more than 220 professionals. Developing an innovative approach to banking, REYL serves a clientele of international entrepreneurs and institutional investors through its Wealth Management, Entrepreneur & Family Office Services, Corporate Advisory & Structuring, Asset Services and Asset Management business lines. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1307209/Fideuram_Tommaso_Corcos.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1307208/REYL_Francois_Reyl.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1307207/Fideuram_Logo.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1307210/REYL_Logo.jpg SOURCE Fideuram; REYL By ANI KOLKATA: A local BJP leader in West Bengal was shot dead on Sunday by two bike-borne assailants near Titagarh in North 24 Parganas district, police said. The duo opened fire at Manish Sukla, a local councillor, on B T Road in the evening, following which he was taken to a private hospital, where he was declared brought dead, they said. The BJP leadership blamed the Trinamool Congress for the incident, but the ruling party has rubbished the accusation. "It is shameful that the TMC has now started politics of annihilation of political opponents. We don't have any faith in local police as this happened in front of the police station. We want a CBI inquiry," BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said. BJP MP Arjun Singh also held the TMC responsible for Shukla's "killing" and claimed that shots were fired at him from a carbine. Shukla, who switched over to the saffron party last year, was considered to be close to Singh. Senior TMC leader Nirmal Ghosh said the incident was a result of infighting within the BJP and allegations against his party were baseless. A huge police contingent was rushed to the spot after Shukla was gunned down around 9.30 pm. "We have started an investigation and will look at all possible angles," a senior police officer said. The BJP has called a 12-hour bandh in Barrackpore area on Monday in protest against the incident. Meanwhile, Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed concern over the law and order situation in the state and summoned the Additional Chief Secretary, Home, and the DGP on Monday morning. "ACS Home @MamataOfficial and DGP @WBPolice have been summoned at 10 am tomorrow in the wake of worsening law and order situation leading to the dastardly killing of Manish Shukla, Councillor, Titagarh Municipality in political party office," Dhankhar said in a tweet. MARIB, Yemen (Reuters) - In Yemen's gas-rich region of Marib, fighters loyal to the Saudi-backed government recited Koranic verses before launching a hail of mortar and machine gun fire towards rocky mountains, in a desperate bid to push back Houthi forces. The commanding officer peered through his binoculars at the dust and plumes of black smoke thrown up by the firing, aimed at a group of elusive enemy Houthi snipers. A few dozen kilometres (miles) away, hundreds of displaced civilians in makeshift camps waited for water, food and medicine from humanitarian groups - a further sign that despite United Nations peace efforts, the near six-year-old war grinds on. "We have more than 1,500 families in this camp and they already moved three times ... because the fighting keeps following them," said Mohsen Mushalla, director of al-Sowaida camp some 15 km from Marib city. "They don't have water, electricity, a hospital and the nearest town is 10 km away. Just bringing water is enough hardship," Mushalla added. Fighting has raged for months in Marib, the last stronghold of the internationally recognised government. It was ousted from power in the capital, Sanaa, in late 2014 by the Iran-aligned Houthi movement, prompting a Saudi-led coalition to intervene. The war, which has caused the world's worst humanitarian crisis, has been in stalemate for years. The government of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi has also fought separatists in the south who seek independence. CEASEFIRE REMAINS ELUSIVE Some diplomats and experts say that a Houthi victory in Marib, which would hand the group complete control of the northern half of Yemen, could have "ripple effects" on the conflict across Yemen and scupper U.N. efforts to secure a nationwide ceasefire. Houthi forces have opened three frontlines in Marib region, advancing in recent months from the northern district of Madghal, the southern town of Rahabah and from the west in Sarwah. Story continues The group has seized six districts and large parts of Sarwah, which lies 80 km from Marib city - the last line of defence before Yemen's biggest gas and oil fields. But progress has slowed and victory is not guaranteed. "Marib is a military operation for both sides but it is a pressure tool for the Houthis on the negotiating table," said a diplomat involved in the talks. "Luckily, the fighting has slowed down over the last two weeks, thanks to the Houthi-Saudi indirect talks and because the battle has been exhausting for both sides." Saudi Arabia and the Houthis began back-channel talks last year. The Saudi-led coalition and Houthi officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the status of fighting in Marib or the broader conflict. SWEEPING DESERT LANDSCAPES The violence has escalated since U.N. Special Envoy to Yemen Martin Griffiths pressed both parties to agree on a ceasefire deal that would pave the way for broader negotiations to end the war that has killed more than 100,000 people. Earlier this month, Griffiths told the 15-member U.N. Security Council that he sent an advanced draft of the agreement to the parties, and warned the international community not to underestimate the political importance of Marib. The fighting in Marib has displaced nearly a million people, the U.N. said, and threatens around 750,000 refugees who have settled in the city since the war started in 2014. "We know that any intensification of the conflict will put them (displaced civilians) at extreme risk and we're very worried that many of the people who live in Marib city will themselves become displaced by the conflict," Lise Grande, U.N. Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen, told Reuters. In Marib city, giant billboards expressed support for President Hadi, while the red, white and black national colours flew in crowded streets. Vendors offered grilled corn on the cob. "I fled the fighting in Aden, this city hosts refugees from all over Yemen ... we call on the international community to stop missile strikes on the city as only refugees and children suffer from them," said Nermeen al-Hashidi, a Marib resident. In al-Sowaida camp, tents are set amid the towering hills of the desert, and children walk barefoot while others drink water directly from big white cisterns left in the fierce heat. "I have a wife and five children living inside this tent," said Mohamad Abdullah Qassim, a refugee. "The international organisations have provided us with it, but I'm not sure that they are very helpful. Other tents burned in a big fire next to us." (Additional reporting by Mohamed Ghobari in Aden and Jacob Greaves and Tarek Fahmy in Dubai; Writing by Aziz El Yaakoubi; Editing by Mike Collett-White) Kington, UK -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/05/2020 -- Known for its cutting edge data transfer and migration services, E-Tech has now made it easy for clients to transfer their data from Peachtree to any QuickBooks platform. As QuickBooks is taking over the world as a standard for financial management and bookkeeping softwares, many companies around the world want to transfer their financial records to QuickBooks. E-Tech has now made is easy for companies to do exactly that. Offering a seamless Peachtree to QuickBooks migration service, E-Tech ensures 100% accuracy in a quick turnaround. A company spokesperson added "Here at E-Tech our mission is to offer smooth and seamless data transfers with 100% data accuracy in all records. Not only that, our data technicians work around the clock to ensure that the transfers we offer are quick as well as reliable." More details about E-Tech and full service specifications for Peachtree to QuickBooks migration can be seen at https://e-tech.ca/Peachtree-to-Quickbooks.aspx About E-Tech E-Tech is the leading service provider of QuickBooks File Repair, Data Recovery, QuickBooks Conversion and QuickBooks SDK programming in the UK and Ireland. In their 20 years plus of experience with Intuit QuickBooks, they have assisted over 1000 satisfied customers with their requirements. E-Tech UK covers US, UK, Canadian, Australian versions which include Reckon Accounts, and New Zealand versions of QuickBooks through PC and Mac platforms. For media inquiries regarding E-Tech, individuals are encouraged to contact Media Relations Director, Melanie Ann via email at Melanie@e-tech.ca. To learn more about the company, visit: https://quickbooksrecovery.co.uk/ Melanie Ann Media Relations E-Tech 61 Bridge St. Kington HR5 3DJ Melanie@e-tech.ca www.quickbooksrecovery.co.uk An Australian family have spoken about their harrowing fight to save their son's life after he was killed in the Beirut blast. Isaac Oehlers was badly injured after being hit by shards of glass while sitting in his highchair when the blast rocked Lebanon's capital on August 4. Speaking about their ordeal his parents Sarah Copland and Craig Oehlers told of their struggle to save his life before the two-year-old passed away in hospital. Issac was the only Australian to die in the horrific explosion caused by the detonation of a stockpile of ammonium nitrate. The family's unit was only around 700 metres from the blast site and the toddler was hurt while sitting in his highchair. Sarah Copland and Craig Oehlers have spoken for the first time about their fight to save son Isaac (pictured) after the Beirut explosion Ms Copland was knocked to the ground by the deadly surge after all the windows of their fourth floor apartment were blown out, while Mr Oehlers was in the bathroom and rushed out to a horrific scene. 'There were bits of live wires dangling from the ceiling. It was total devastation and, of course, the first thing I thought of was, "Oh my God! Where's Isaac? Where's Sarah?" And I ran as fast as I could from the bathroom to the living room,' he told ABC's Four Corners. The young family retreated to the bathroom where they saw the extent of Isaac's injuries including a huge wound in his chest from a big piece of glass. They fled to the street to make their way to a hospital for treatment where they discovered the devastation caused by the blast. The explosion killed at least 200 people, injured thousands and reduced once bustling cosmopolitan streets to ruble. Ms Copland was forced to stand in the middle of the frantic street to stop a local man, who took the family to Rafic Hariri hospital. She recalled the man driving at full speed down the wrong side of the road in order to dodge traffic and get the family to medical help. The two-year-old is the only Australian victim of the horrific Beirut blast (pictured) on August 4 Sarah Copland and Craig Oehlers (pictured together) had been trying to leave Beirut for months before the blast, but were unable to due to the coronavirus pandemic On arrival at the hospital Ms Copland was taken for treatment on large glass shards in her head, leaving Mr Oehlers to head to the operating theatre with Isaac. He said it was a devastating experience that will stay with him for the rest of his life. 'I'll tell you what. No parent should ever have to be in the same room as his child, who's on an operating table, and see the heart monitor flat line and hear all the alarms go off,' Mr Oehlers said. The family had been trying to leave Beirut for months but had been trapped in the city amid the coronavirus pandemic. They had managed to book a flight home to Perth in late August, but sadly the whole family would not make the journey. 'They shut the airports. We couldn't leave to get home. So, we had made several attempts to get back this year and we were so close and just three weeks difference and our whole lives would be just be the way they were supposed to be,' Ms Copland said. The couple have since returned home, where Ms Copland is due to give birth to a baby boy within weeks. New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Monday asked the Centre to explain its stand with regard to the neighbourhood criteria to admit students in nursery in private schools in the national capital and other parts of the country. Justice Manmohan sought the response of the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) in the backdrop of the Delhi government's recent directive to private unaided schools to accept nursery admission forms based only on the neighbourhood or distance criteria. "See, your (Centre's) policy has to be implemented all over India. These are questions you will have to answer to me.How you are going to implement the neighbourhood criteria must be clear to me. This kind of a policy has an all India impact," the judge said to the counsel for the ministry. Advocate Amit Mahajan, appearing for MHRD, submitted that there is "no compulsion for the child's parents to seek admission only in a school in his/her neighbourhood". This prompted the judge to ask Mahajan if it is not so, then the parents in Delhi can also apply in schools of their choice. The court, however, asked the counsel to take instructions on this aspect and inform it on Tuesday. It, meanwhile, also directed the Delhi government to show it the copy of allotment letters to schools on the basis of which neighbourhood criteria was imposed. The court was hearing pleas by parents and two school groups challenging the Delhi government's December 19, 2016 and January 7 notifications that made 298 private schools, built on Delhi Development Authority land, to accept nursery admission forms based only on the neighbourhood criteria. The two school groups -- Action Committee of Unaided Recognised Private Schools and Forum for Promotion of Quality Education -- and parents have contended that these circulars are bad in law and have curtailed their fundamental rights. The court, however, by way of an interim order had allowed the parents to fill up the application forms for the various schools based on the criteria set by them as well as the Delhi government. Later, it had also stayed the government's notification asking private minority unaided schools to accept nursery admission forms using neighbourhood criteria. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Rob Portman and Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio on Friday both tested negative for the coronavirus after being exposed to President Donald Trump earlier this week, spokespeople for the Republican officeholders said. Trump announced Friday morning on Twitter that he and First Lady Melania Trump had tested positive for the potentially fatal virus, stating We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER! The pair got tested after an aide to Trump, Hope Hicks, came down with the virus. Trumps positive test result prompted Jordan to get his own test because he rode on Air Force One with Trump to Clevelands presidential debate on Tuesday night. On Friday afternoon, a spokesman for Jordan, of Champaign County, announced his test results were negative. Tonight, @FLOTUS and I tested positive for COVID-19. We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 2, 2020 Mr. Jordan has been advised by his physician that since he was not in close contact with any COVID-19 positive people during a risk time period, he does not have to quarantine, said a statement from Jordan spokesman Russell Dye. "Todays test was taken as a precaution and Mr. Jordan looks forward to continuing to work hard for the people of Ohios Fourth District. Portman decided to get tested because he attended a White House event with Trump on Monday to highlight the new electric pickup truck that Lordstown Motors is producing in Ohio. A spokesperson for Portman said the test was negative. Jane & I send our best wishes to President and Melania Trump for a speedy recovery, Portman said in a Twitter statement earlier on Friday. Im glad they immediately began to quarantine and I hope everyone will support their recovery by continuing to do their part to slow the spread by wearing a mask and practicing social distancing. Read more: Ohios Rep. Jim Jordan to get coronavirus test after traveling with President Trump on Air Force One; Sen. Rob Portman will also be tested Human trafficking remains a problem in Ohio, Cleveland FBI agent tells congressional task force Sen. Rob Portman urges President Donald Trump to condemn white supremacy unequivocally Ohio coal magnate Robert Murray has filed for black lung benefits, report says Trump shows off Lordstown Motors pickup truck at White House on the eve of Cleveland presidential debate Ohio Republicans pleased with President Donald Trumps Supreme Court nomination of Amy Coney Barrett, states Democrats are not Sen. Sherrod Brown expects Democrats will fight like hell against Trump Supreme Court nominee Sen. Rob Portman continues to defend his switch on Supreme Court Justice votes in an election year John Boehner memoir to hit bookstores in April U.S. House passes bill backed by Rep. Marcia Fudge to ban hairstyle discrimination Too many Hagans? Rep. Tim Ryan claims confusion between his opponent Christina Hagan and State Rep. Michele Lepore-Hagan Ohio GOP Rep. Jim Jordan urges swift Senate vote on successor for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Sen. Rob Portman says the Senate should consider President Donald Trumps Supreme Court nominee Ohio members of Congress react to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburgs death House of Representatives condemns coronavirus-related discrimination against Asians over objections from Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio Senate Committee approves three Ohio federal judge candidates after members voice concerns about Cuyahoga Countys J. Philip Calabrese A worker hangs a banner as preparations take place for the vice presidential debate outside Kingsbury Hall at the University of Utah, Monday, Oct. 5, 2020, in Salt Lake City. A plexiglass barrier will separate Vice President Mike Pence and Sen. Kamala Harris at their vice presidential debate Wednesday, the second such measure taken to reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission on the heels of President Donald Trump contracting Covid-19. A person familiar with the debate planning told NBC News that the California Democrat Harris' campaign asked for the plexiglass to be used at the showdown at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, and that the Commission on Presidential Debates approved the request. A fact sheet distributed by the commission said, "Plexiglass will be used as part of the CPD's overall approach to health and safety." The sheet also said that "everyone in the debate hall will be subject to a variety of health safety protocols, including COVID testing and mask use." "If anyone does not wear a mask, they will be escorted out," the sheet warned. At last week's first presidential debate at Cleveland Clinic between Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden, the Democratic nominee, members of Trump's family, including first lady Melania Trump and his adult children, and others in his entourage did not wear masks, despite masks being mandated by rules agreed to by both mens' campaign. Politico first reported that the plexiglass would be used at the vice presidential debate. The news outlet said that the Pence campaign opposed the precaution. Pence's spokeswoman, Katie Miller, told NBC News, as she told Politico, "If Sen. Harris wants to use a fortress around herself, have at it." Miller herself was diagnosed with the coronavirus in May. The debate commission said that the centers of the chairs for Pence and Harris would be positioned slightly more than 12 feet away from one another, as opposed to the original plan to have them seated 7 feet from each other for their first and only face-to-face showdown. Trump disclosed Friday that he and Melania Trump had tested positive for the coronavirus. Biden and Pence both jave tested negative for the virus since then. In addition to the Trumps, at least 16 other people in the White House or who have attended the Trump-Biden debate or Trump-related events have been diagnosed with the coronavirus, including the president's campaign manager, Bill Stepien, top Trump advisors Hope Hicks and Kellyanne Conway, White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany and Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel. Over the weekend, Jaime Harrison, the Democratic nominee for the Senate in South Carolina, brought his own plexiglass barrier for his debate with incumbent Republican Sen. Lindsay Graham. On Wednesday, tech giants Oracle and Google will square off before the Supreme Court to argue what some have called the copyright case of the centuryand in this time of COVID-19, the argument will be heard by telephone. Though the computer technologies involved in the case are far removed from century-old telephony, that ancient systems history shows precisely what is at stake before the Supreme Court: The wrong outcome could end up unexpectedly empowering Big Tech more than ever. Advertisement The Google v. Oracle lawsuit is a copyright case, the kind that often involves copying a novel or music lyrics. But the words Oracle accuses Google of copying are no ordinary words. This gets technical, but bear with me. In the 1990s as part of its Java system, Sun Microsystems developed software tools for encrypting data, reading databases, and compressing files. Sun also devised an application programming interface consisting of command names and syntaxes that programmers would use to communicate with the tools. In much the same way as one pushes a button marked Play to tell a VCR to start a tape, a programmer writes words like javax.crypto.KeyGenerator.getInstance to tell the Java software to start making encryption keys. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement When Google began developing its Android mobile platform around 2007, it created its own software tools and used command names mirroring Javas. That way, Java programmers could carry over their existing knowledge and code to the new platform, just as VCR users can start a newfangled DVD with a button also marked Play. Oracle acquired Sun in 2010 and almost immediately sued Google for almost $9 billion, claiming that reusing Suns command names is the illegal act of copying. The fact that Google chose to have a single set of commands work between Java and Android makes this case about interoperability: having a single means of communication to access multiple competing services. History is replete with examples of interoperability, but the telephone is perhaps the most widespread and storied. When the Supreme Court justices and attorneys convene Wednesday, they might be served by AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint, or anyone else, yet they will all reach one another. All of them, and all of us, can use a common means of communication to call any phone company, because telephone systems are interoperable. Advertisement Advertisement Today we take interconnection, the telephone industry term for interoperability, for granted, but it was not always this way. In the late 1800s, after Alexander Graham Bells patents on the telephone expired, numerous phone services sprang up across America in competition with the dominant American Bell Telephone Co. But these independent services were separate islands: A Bell telephone could not call an independent or vice versa. A person wanting to talk to both Bell and independent customers had to purchase two service contracts, two wires, and even two handsets. Advertisement Public frustration about dual service helped to make Bell, later AT&T, into the original big tech company because of what economists call a lock-in effect. Bell subscribers wanting to switch to a competitor faced enormous switching costsbuying new equipment and connecting to an independent with fewer subscribersand thus would be reluctant to support an upstart competitor. Being unable to reach Bells customers especially via the long-distance lines exclusively held by Bell, the independents largely dried up or were acquired, giving Bell near-complete control over the telephone market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Toward the latter half of the 20th century, government regulators began to look to break up that dominant position and introduce competition in the telephone market. Interoperability was key. If independents could interconnect with Bells network, Bell subscribers would avoid switching costs to reach independent customers and vice versa, allowing competition to grow. Interconnection prominently featured in the 1982 antitrust case against AT&T. Besides breaking the company into regional Baby Bells, the final court order required the newly formed entities to provide their competitors access equal in type, quality, and price to that provided to AT&T and its affiliates. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 further made interconnection a top priority, providing that every telecommunications carrier has the duty to interconnect directly or indirectly with the facilities and equipment of other telecommunications carriers. The law also contains a dialing parity rule strikingly like the interoperability Google hopes to achieve. Before 1996, calling a customer on a competing phone service sometimes required dialing a lengthy access code that depended on what services the calling parties used. Dialing parity eliminated the access codes, ensuring that one phone number would reach the same customer on whatever service that customer happened to use, just as one command name reaches the same software tool on Java and Android. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Telephone interconnection shows why the Oracle v. Google case, seemingly relevant to only the techiest of techies, could have widespread implications for societys relationship with dominant tech firms. Just as Bells monopoly derived from telephone subscriber lock-in, computer technology firms enjoy lock-in effects based on command names left and right: Oracles popular Java command names, internal codes in Microsofts ubiquitous DOCX document format, and Amazons leading cloud computing interface, for example. Android could have offered an encryption toolkit using all-new command names, but Java programmers might be reluctant to invest in switching; the Bell saga shows how noninteroperable dual service is the path to big tech monopolies. Interoperability to overcome lock-in has led competing word processors (including Oracle OpenOffice) to interoperate with Microsofts document format and led competing cloud services (including Oracle Cloud) to copy Amazons command names. If copyright law prohibits competitors from reusing command names to build interoperable products, then powerful companies will hold the keys to blocking competition and making our technological future dependent on them. Advertisement Advertisement While the reasons for interoperability are the same between computer commands and telephones, the means of achieving it are naturally different. Telephone interconnection involves a complex regulatory system, and Oracle would be the first to point out that competitors pay fees for the privilege. But those are the result of physical buildout needs: To enable interconnection, a telephone company must lay down wires, maintain switching equipment, and operate premises. By contrast, Google can make Android interoperable with Javas commands with no help from Oracle at all. Breaking down barriers to telephone interoperability required affirmative laws and rules, but the only barrier to interoperability in the Google v. Oracle case is a questionable reading of copyright law that the Supreme Court could eliminate with the flick of a pen. Advertisement Advertisement As connected technologies such as social media, the Internet of Things, and self-driving cars embed themselves further in society, interoperability will only become more important as a means of ensuring competition and avoiding big tech lock-in. But the magic of interoperability may also be its downfall: Interoperability, at is best, is invisible. I do not expect any of the attorneys to think for a moment about why their phone services can access the Supreme Courts line. As the justices debate the future of interoperability, they willalmost certainly without knowing itbe enjoying the fruits of a century of work toward interoperability just to have that debate. It remains to be seen whether their decision will keep things that way. Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society. The official visit will include talks with Boris Johnson. President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine is set to pay an official visit to the UK on October 7-8. That's according to the press service of the President's Office. Zelensky is scheduled to hold talks with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, following which a Ukrainian-British agreement on political cooperation, free trade, and strategic partnership will be signed. Read alsoZelensky wishes Trump, First Lady "fast and full recovery" from COVID-19The parties will also sign a number of other bilateral documents on cooperation in the field of defense and financial support for bilateral projects. During the visit, the president and First Lady Olena Zelensky will also meet the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. On the official visit's agenda there is also Zelensky's meeting with Lindsay Goyle, Speaker of the House of Commons of the British Parliament, as well as William Russell, Lord Mayor of the City of London. The president will pay a visit to the London Stock Exchange and meet with British investors. Ukraine-UK ties: Other stories Digital payments firm Paytm has launched a mini-app store to support Indian developers, in a direct challenge to Googles dominance in the space. The launch of the store follows the payment app being temporarily removed from Googles Play Store on September 18 for violating developer guidelines on real-money gaming. While the removal of the app may be a trigger, Paytms move is perhaps a direct fallout of Google mandating that developers listed on its Play Store use its billing service. Google levies a 30% commission on any transaction made for a digital product or service through its in-app billing system. Paytm said the mini-app store will help developers take their products to the masses and is providing listing and distribution of these mini-apps within its app. Rival PhonePe launched its in-app platform in June 2018 and rebranded it to PhonePe Switch in October 2019. More than 300 apps, including Decathlon, Ola, Rapido, Netmeds, 1MG, Dominos Pizza, FreshMenu, NoBroker, have joined the Paytm app store, the company said. Last week, startup founders such as Paytms Vijay Shekhar Sharma and Razorpays Harshil Mathur, along with 50 other founders, discussed the possibility of building an Indian app store to challenge Google. In a separate move, industry body Internet and Mobile Association of India (Iamai), which has many startups as members, sought a collective strategy to tackle the issue. In a note on September 29, Iamai said it is seeking a meeting with its founder members to understand their concerns and to resolve them. Just because Google owns the gate and the gateway to the digital ecosystem of this country, they should not act arbitrarily and enforce their rules and regulations that are contrary to our countrys laws, said Vishwas Patel, founder of CCAvenue and chairman of Payments Council of India and a member of Iamai. Googles stand in courts is that it does not need RBI authorisation as it is not a payment system operator and, here, it is mandating that Indian apps use only Googles proprietary billing and payment systems. Google should not exercise its dominant position, rather allow a level-playing field for everyone, he added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON For more than a year, an uncle in Canada has pressed Ottawa to repatriate the girl from the sprawling al-Hol camp, where some 65,000 civilians displaced by the fighting are being held in dire conditions. On Sunday morning, a Canadian official telephoned the uncles lawyer to say Amira had been removed from the camp in the care of a consular official and was on her way to Canada. Job Title: Project Coordinator Organization: Bridgeway Foundation Project Name: Strengthening Community-led Reintegration and Promoting an Achievable Defections Framework Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda About US: At Bridgeway Foundation, we are unified in our relentless pursuit to realize our vision: a world free of genocide. Genocide and crimes against humanity, along with the factors that give rise to such atrocities, are not only historical facts, but also contemporary realities. For over 20 years, we have endeavored to be a vital partner to some of the worlds leading development, human rights, and conflict resolution organizations. This work is made possible by Bridgeway Capital Management and its commitment to donating one-half of its profits to support our mission. The Foundation contributes resources annually to a targeted array of organizations, in order to fulfill our mission and tackle some of the worlds toughest issues in its toughest regions. Key Duties and Responsibilities: The Uganda Project Coordinator will have the following duties and responsibilities: Execute all Uganda project activities, maintain set timelines, and be responsible for meeting project outcomes Organize the convening of a cross-border Conference of Experts for key Ugandan and DRC leaders to share and learn from past efforts to promote defections in the region Facilitate intra-country convenings in Uganda and the creation of a working group that will meet monthly on issues of security, recruitment and defection trends, reintegration needs, and related challenges Organize and coordinate a Uganda-DRC Key Leaders workshop with the aim of creating a cross-border Defections Road Map Work with government, UN, and civil society representatives in the creation and refinement of new cross-border standard operating procedures (SOPs) for defectors Working with local partners, oversee community-led trainings, including the creation and dissemination of training materials, to help facilitate future defections at the local level Oversee the financial disbursement and track progress on four pilot projects in the region, working with designated CBOs to ensure project timelines and targets are met Oversee the work of the project accountant and ensure strict adherence to financial compliance, recordkeeping, and reporting Work with the project lead at ANCHOR to ensure the project is meeting all M&E deliverables Create and deliver monthly and quarterly project reports to relevant foundation personnel Degree of Expertise Qualifications, Skills and Experience: The applicant must hold a Bachelors degree or higher required, related to conflict resolution, program management, or related field A minimum of five years of extensive professional experience of project implementation and management, preferably with experience in areas of Eastern Uganda Existing relationships within the Ugandan government and civil society leaders in Uganda Good communication and excellent reporting skills in English Ability to work independently and travel to remote areas Personal flexibility and high motivation Highly organized, detail oriented, and ability to meet timelines Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel, Powerpoint, and Google docs Program experience in preventing/countering violent extremism (P/CVE) and reintegration preferred Experience managing government-funded projects desirable Legally able to live and work in Uganda Language Requirements: English required; Luganda, Lusoga, French, Swahili, Nande desirable How to Apply: All suitably qualified and interested candidates are requested to submit their CV, three professional references, and a cover letter explaining their suitability for the position to afinck@bridgewayfoundation.org Deadline: 5th October 2020 by 5:00pm EAT For more of the latest jobs, please visit https://www.theugandanjobline.com or find us on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/UgandanJobline Gold failed to go below 49,000 levels and is now back above 50,000. Support has come around $1,850 and now it is important for gold to move above $1,915. The recent correction is welcome in gold as it gives us opportunity to buy at lower level. Historically, we have seen that gold rarely sustains after 37 per cent rally so this correction was expected and we believe that the next catalyst for gold would be the US presidential election. In the short-term, USD movement is also crucial. Any strength in US dollar will keep pressure on gold prices and we dont expect any runaway rally ... Press Release 5 October 2020 The talk on the hospitality street is what Level 1 is going to do for the industry - how has lockdown affected the hotel landscape and its offering, will it recover, and what does the future hold? Local tourism is likely to drive this recovery until our international borders re-open, but what is this post-Covid guest looking for in terms of accommodation? Advertisements The upside is that the downtime has allowed for some re-thinking and re-invention from the hospitality sector - behind closed doors much has been deliberated and carefully considered and despite the odds the industry has rallied and risen from the ashes - they are ready to open their doors again and offer the excellent service and facilities that have become synonymous with the hospitality sector in South Africa. Enter WINK Aparthotels, an exciting new hospitality group launched by Flyt Property Investment, who have pooled their existing and ever-growing property portfolio into a hospitality offering that ticks all the boxes in terms of innovation, functionality, affordability and accessibility, perfectly positioned to offer short- and long-term accommodation solutions in Cape Town. Zane de Decker, MD of Flyt Property Investment, says that their offering aims to provide guests with the convenience of apartment living combined with the luxury and comfort of a hotel. "Pre-Covid we already saw a turn towards aparthotels, self-catering apartments and Airbnb type accommodation - more and more people are opting for aparthotels versus full-service hotels as they prefer that home-away-from-home atmosphere which allows them more flexibility, privacy and/or a fully-serviced option." WINK Foreshore and WINK Eaton Square in Diep River both feature fully-furnished, self-catering apartments and studios with kitchens and kitchenettes for short- and long-stay rentals. A meal delivery service is available to guests and tenants, as well as a daily or weekly cleaning service in line with National Health and Safety requirements. There is fast, stable Wi-FI connectivity and on-site facilities include a concierge and innovative common areas, along with the newly launched WINK Cafe that is open throughout the day for a healthy fix. Head of Hospitality, Lauren Barnard says that they have created a bespoke, contemporary accommodation solution that caters to domestic and international business and leisure travellers, digital nomads and migrant workers: "There is something for everyone." Plans are afoot to add another aparthotel in Stellenbosch to their portfolio within the year. Jaipur, Oct 5 : If sources are to be believed, cheetahs shall be coming to India soon. They will be air-lifted either from South Africa or from Namibia. This fastest running predator which became extinct in the country during the 1950s, are set to be relocated and may be put up either in Madhya Pradesh or in Rajasthan. Bihar too have showed interest to host the Cheetahs, officials informed. A video conferencing among officials and Ranjitsinh, a prince from Wankaner in Saurashtra, and a 1961 IAS batch officer, was held on September 30, 2020 to chart out a plan. Ranjitsinh has been raising his voice for cheetah's re-entry in the country since last many years, environmentalist Harsh Vardhan told IANS adding that he was nominated as the chairman of a three-member committee formed by the Supreme Court. Y.V. Jhala, Dean at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), has also been nominated to head the Cheetah-team for inspecting habitats where the predator can be rehabilitated, said Harsh adding that the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is appointed as the new Cheetah-Office in India via the Supreme Court Order. A sum of Rs 2.5 crore has been sanctioned to WII by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to facilitate this wild cat's entry into India. The Asiatic Cheetah survives in Iran only and as this country is disinterested to part with it to any country, the only option left is the African Cheetah and South Africa and Namibia are apparently willing to export to India, he informed. Lauri Marker, founder-head of Cheetah Conservation Foundation in Namibia, visited India last February and discussed diverse aspects of the project with some key players. Many questions, however, are left unanswered including if the forest officials have re-examined the impact of this fastest running animal in Indian conditions This animal basically needs open and scrub habitat promising a grass cover and abundant feed. However, India lacks such large tracts of habitats which does exist in its African homes. Hence, the feed quotient raises yet another question which is "Will village population face the brunt in the suggested areas," questions Harsh. "What will the villagers feel when the predator will pick up their sheep, goat, poultry, etc?" Harsh asks. Have the Indian foresters chalked out any plan in this perspective. Presently, there is tigers vs the villagers. Now will Cheetah add to worries or solve them, he asks. Cheetahs are endangered species, according to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (Cites). Around 7,100 cheetahs are left in the wild. The Asiatic cheetah, which once roamed in different parts of India, are now found in Iran. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text The Black Lives Matter movement is not a "force for good", senior Conservative MP Sajid Javid has said Speaking at an online event for Tory party conference the former chancellor described the organisers of anti-racism protests as "neo-Marxist" and characterised them as having extreme political views. Black Lives Matter is a decentralised political movement that was sparked by incidents of police violence and unaccountability in the United States. Similar protests against racial discrimination and historic injustices have spread to many countries under the same banner, including Britain. I think the movement of people whether through demonstrating or other ways of fighting for racial justice, of course, that is important, said Mr Javid, who in August took up a paid job at JPMorgan Chase on top of his work as an MP. Recommended Donald Trump launches blistering attack on the Black Lives Matter movement But he added: I distinguish between the Black Lives Matter movement and the fight for racial justice. Im not sympathetic to the actual organisation, Black Lives Matter. I think its a sort of neo-Marxist organisation that wants to overthrow capitalism and get rid of the police. I think the organisation itself is not a force for good. The intervention by Mr Javid follows an attack on the anti-racism movement by Home Secretary Priti Patel, who used her conference speech on Sunday to brand them a mob. Boris Johnson has also voiced some criticism of the protesters, telling Sky News in June that those calling for the removal of statues of slave traders or racists should focus less on the symbols of discrimination or whatever. He claimed people in the UK should be proud of its history. Cesar Alvarez recognized as a Florida Trend 500 Living Legend Matthew B. Gorson, senior chairman of global law firm Greenberg Traurig, P.A., and Jaret L. Davis, co-managing shareholder of the firms Miami office, have been named to the Florida Trend 2020 Florida 500 list of the most influential legal executives in the state. Cesar Alvarez, senior chairman of Greenberg Traurig, is recognized as one of the magazines original Florida 500 Living Legends from 2018-2019. The Florida 500 is the product of a year-long research initiative by the editors of Florida Trend resulting in a personal, engaging look at the states most influential business leaders across major industries, according to the publication. Executives are selected for inclusion based on extensive contacts in regional business circles, multiple interviews, and months of research, culminating in a highly selective biographical guide. As senior chairman of Greenberg Traurig, Gorson oversees the day-to-day operations of the firms Southeast and California offices and previously served as the firms president and chairman. He joined Greenberg Traurig in 1973 as the firms 14th lawyer and became one of the most prolific and in-demand real estate attorneys in South Florida. His work over the last three decades has played a key role in revitalizing the urban landscape and changing the skyline of Downtown Miami, Brickell Avenue, Miami Beach and Sunny Isles. As the former chair of the firm's national Real Estate Practice, Gorson was instrumental in developing Greenberg Traurigs reputation as a real estate powerhouse. Davis has co-led Greenberg Traurigs Miami office for over a decade and is a member of the firms global Executive Committee and a shareholder in the Corporate Practice. He oversees approximately 170 attorneys and 200 business staff based in the firms founding office and focuses his corporate and securities practice on domestic and cross-border mergers and acquisitions, capital markets transactions, and large financings. He has also served as one of several leaders leading Greenberg Traurig efforts globally to be a dominant player in the technology industry. Alvarez, currently senior chairman of Greenberg Traurig, previously served as the firm's executive chairman for more than three years and as its chief executive officer for 13 years. Under Alvarezs leadership, the firm was recognized as the fastest-growing law firm in the United States and became one of the Top 10 law firms in the United States. About Greenberg Traurig, LLP: Greenberg Traurig, LLP (GT) has approximately 2,200 attorneys in 40 locations in the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. GT has been recognized for its philanthropic giving, diversity, and innovation, and is consistently among the largest firms in the U.S. on the Law360 400 and among the Top 20 on the Am Law Global 100. Web: http://www.gtlaw.com Twitter: @GT_Law. The new office, located at 100 Crossing Blvd., covers 14,000 square feet and will have an estimated 50 full time employees. This location serves as the home office for American commercial operations including marketing, sales, and the executive team. "We are excited to join the Massachusetts life science community," says Dennis Barger, President of Eppendorf Americas. "We feel that Framingham's proximity to life science innovators will greatly contribute to our growth strategy by facilitating enhanced collaboration with our customers and greater access to the talent to needed grow our business." The office will be centered around innovation and collaboration. There is a show room featuring some of Eppendorf's most popular products and dedicated working areas for visiting colleagues. Eppendorf celebrates its 75th anniversary this year and the relocation will help the Americas Market Region continue its deep history supporting scientists. About Eppendorf Eppendorf is a leading life science company that develops and sells instruments, consumables, and services for liquid handling, sample handling, and cell handling in laboratories worldwide. Its product range includes pipettes and automated pipetting systems, dispensers, centrifuges, mixers, spectrometers, and DNA amplification equipment as well as ultra-low temperature freezers, fermentors, bioreactors, CO2 incubators, shakers, and cell manipulation systems. Consumables such as pipette tips, test tubes, microplates, and single-use bioreactor vessels complement the range of highest-quality premium products. Eppendorf products are most broadly used in academic and commercial research laboratories, e.g., in companies from the pharmaceutical and biotechnological as well as the chemical and food industries. They are also aimed at clinical and environmental analysis laboratories, forensics, and at industrial laboratories performing process analysis, production, and quality assurance. Eppendorf was founded in Hamburg, Germany in 1945 and has more than 3,600 employees worldwide. The company has subsidiaries in 26 countries and is represented in all other markets by distributors. Media Contact: Kelly Smith [email protected] Kelly Smith [email protected] SOURCE Eppendorf Related Links https://www.eppendorf.com/US-en/ Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 12:11 475 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4923245 4 City BMKG,Jakarta-flood,floods,weather,rainy-season,Rain-in-Jakarta,rain,South-Jakarta,East-Jakarta,West-Jakarta Free Moderate to heavy rain in Greater Jakarta on Sunday night has left at least 56 neighborhood units (RT) inundated and displaced hundreds of residents. The Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD)s data and information center head, Mohammad Insaf, said floodwaters reached 10 to 150 centimeters in most of the affected areas on Monday morning. There are 23 neighborhood units inundated in South Jakarta, while there are 31 RTs in East Jakarta and 2 RTs in West Jakarta, Insaf said in a statement on Monday, as quoted by kompas.com. Floodwaters reached a depth of up to 150 cm in parts of South Jakarta and East Jakarta and up to 30 cm in West Jakarta. Read also: Jakarta braces for flooding as rainy season approaches, La Nina looms As many as 257 South Jakarta residents took shelter at two locations when the floods struck their residential areas, namely at the Al-Mamuriah mushola (prayer room) in East Cilandak and the Al Mamur mosque in East Pejaten. Floods from heavy rain in the capital city and the upstream areas also struck parts of Jakarta last month. Governor Anies Baswedan has urged stakeholders to prepare for potentially hazardous flooding in the capital as the rainy season approaches. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned that several regions in the country have entered the rainy season. The La Nina weather phenomenon would also increase rainfall intensity in some parts of Indonesia as it tends to cause extreme weather in the Indonesian archipelago. (syk) Damon Parker Terrelle, 17, has been arrested in connection with the September 27 shooting of Douglas Albert Reese, a 29-year-old Detroit man, near Erebus haunted house in downtown Pontiac. According to the Oakland County Sheriffs Office, Terrelle was taken into custody Oct. 3 near the Michigan-Indiana border by the Oakland County Fugitive Apprehension Team and the United States Marshals Service. Hes now in the Oakland County Jail, denied bond. Terrelle is charged with first-degree murder, punishable by life in prison, possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony and carrying a concealed weapon. The sheriffs office said he has no prior criminal history. According to the sheriffs office, Reese was shot in the Erebus parking lot, located at 18 S. Perry Street, after he and Terrelle had a dispute while standing in line for the haunted house. The sheriffs office said a witness reported that just before the shooting, the two had exchanged words due to Terrelle, who was standing in front of Reese and his girlfriend, wouldnt move. Terrelle reportedly thought Reese had cut in line in front of him, the sheriffs office said. Terrelle and Reese then went separately to the parking lot and gunshots were heard, and a witness reported a blue sedan fled then fled the scene at a high rate of speed, the sheriffs office said. Reese was shot in the side, neck and chest and subsequently transferred by Star EMS to McLaren-Oakland Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Terrelles next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 13, when a probable cause conference will be held before Judge Ronda Fowlkes Gross of 50th District Court. ALSO SEE: Woman injured when sandbag tossed from overpass crashes through cars windshield Tips still sought 15 years after double homicide in Waterford Troy police debunk social media rumors of sexual assaults, robberies Police: Man left Kroger with backpack filled with stolen merchandise White House officials and members of Donald Trump's medical team indicated on Sunday the positive reports about the president's health were being given to keep his spirits up as he battled COVID at Walter Reed Medical Center. The confusion about the president's health condition came after White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows offered a contradictory statement on Saturday to what the doctors treated Trump said. Trump's personal physician Dr. Sean Conley said the president was doing 'very well' but Meadows told reporters after the briefing that Trump had a 'very concerning' situation on Friday and the next few days would be critical. White House communications director Alyssa Farah indicated Conley's positive comment about Trump doing well was directed to the president, who is known to watch the briefings, while Meadows wanted to give additional information in the name of being 'transparent.' 'When you're treating a patient, you want to project confidence, you want to lift their spirits and that was the intent. But of Chief of Staff Meadows came out to give you guys more information just to try to be as transparent as we can,' she told reporters at the White House on Sunday. There also have been reports that staff inside the White House haven't been given updates about the medical situation, there has been little contact regarding tracing, and one adviser was told by the president not to reveal their positive test result, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal. Additionally Farah said the White House would release the number of positive tests among the staff. But White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany contradicted that later Sunday. 'No, there are privacy concerns we take very seriously safeguarding the information of the personnel here in the White House. So thats basically where we stand right now,' she told reporters at the White House. The confusion compounded to concern when Trump's medical team offered additional details on the president's condition and treatment on Sunday, raising questions about the seriousness of his attack even as they said he may be able to return to the White House on Monday. Doctors said for the first time the president was given supplemental oxygen on Friday and was on an extensive drug treatment plan, many of which are given to patients in critical condition. It's unclear if Trump is receiving such treatment because his condition is serious or if because he's the president. His oxygen levels dropped twice since his diagnosis but never below 90 per cent, Dr. Conley said on Sunday. A normal oxygen reading is between 95 and 100 per cent. Conley also said the president received supplemental oxygen for about an hour on Friday at the White House and the drop - along with a 'high' fever - is part of what prompted the decision for Trump to go to Walter Reed. Conley, on Saturday, evaded questions on whether the president received extra oxygen. Additionally, Dr. Brian Garibaldi, a specialist in pulmonary critical care, said Trump received a second dose of the experimental drug remdesivir along with a first dose of dexamethasone, a steroid, on Saturday. Dexamethasone has been shown to help patients who are severely ill with COVID but it's not typically used in mild cases. In could be harmful early on as it could dampen the body's own immune response. On September 2, the World Health Organization recommended the steroid only be given to patients with 'severe and critical Covid-19.' Trump is in the high-risk category due to his age and weight. The White House now faces transparency problems as the conflicting information has given the administration and the medical team credibility problems as they brief the American people. President Donald Trump briefly left his hospital room at Walter Reed Medical Center on Sunday to thank supporters lined up outside the hospital White House communications director Alyssa Farah said on Sunday Dr. Conley was being publicly optimistic to keep President Trump's spirits up while Mark Meadows was trying to be 'transparent' in their conflicting statements on Saturday White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, seen sitting on the bench at a briefing on President Trump's health by the medical team at Walter Reed on Sunday, has come under fire for his handling of the situation White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany walks outside of the White House to do interviews The confusion began on Saturday, Meadows told reporters of the president: 'The president's vitals over the last 24 hours were very concerning and the next 48 hours will be critical in terms of his care. We're still not on a clear path to a full recovery.' But he originally asked to be identified a person familiar with the president's condition when the quote was sent to the media via a pool report. However, he was caught on camera talking to the small pool of reporters who follow the president on a daily basis outside of Walter Reed Medical Center, leading to him to be identified by name. Conley, earlier that day, standing in front of Walter Reed in his white coat with two rows of medical personnel behind him, painted a different picture. 'This morning, the president is doing very well. The team and I are extremely happy with the progress the president has made. He's been fever free for 24 hours and we are cautiously optimistic,' he said. He was asked about the differences when he briefed reporters on Sunday. 'I was trying to reflect the upbeat attitude of the team, that the president, that his course of illness has had,' he said. He also seemed indicate he was trying to keep the president's spirits up when he added that he 'didn't want to give any information that might steer the course of illness in another direction. And in doing so, came off like we're trying to hide something, which wasn't necessarily true.' McEnany, meanwhile, offered a different explanation of the contradictions to Fox News on Sunday. 'I think what was lost upon a lot of the media is that really Chief of Staff Mark Meadows and Dr. Conley were talking about two different, distinct moments in time. Dr. Conley was summing up the president and his condition at that moment and really over the last 24 hours whereas Mark Meadows was referring to an incident in the White House where there was some temporary concern about oxygen levels, but it was quickly revised and taken care of before he headed out to Walter Reed,' she said. Compounding the problem is Trump's reluctance to be seen as weak - on anything. 'Weakness,' Mary Trump wrote in her book 'Too Much and Never Enough' on the Trump family, 'was perhaps the greatest sin of all.' Whit House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows gave contradicting information on President Trump's health Saturday compared to what the medical team said; on Sunday, Meadows, above, did not make any public statements on Trump's health Dr. Sean Conley, physician to President Donald Trump, told reporters Sunday he is giving an 'upbeat' message on Trump's health to reflect the attitude of the president and medical team The White House has scrambled to show Trump in charge and running the country, despite the COVID diagnosis. Trump has posted two videos to Twitter since he checked into the hospital on Friday night. The White House also released two photos on Saturday of the president working in the presidential suite. And Trump on Sunday made a last-minute, surprise visit to his supporters outside Walter Reed Medical Center, briefing leaving his hospital room to thank the cheering loyalists. The president was in an SUV and was driven by the screaming, applauding crowds. He waved to them from inside car and was wearing a face mask. In the front passenger seat was a person wearing full personal protective gear, including a face shield. Secret Service agents were also in the car. The president went into the hospital Friday evening after testing positive for the coronavirus. His family and staff have posted positive message about the president to Twitter. 'Nothing can stop him from working for the American people. Relentless,' his daughter Ivanka wrote, adding a photo of the president working in the hospital. President Trump's positive COVID diagnosis upended the White House and left many of his staff shell-shocked. The White House had perpetuated an untouchable image when it to combating the virus, arguing their testing measures meant staff and president alike were protected from the disease that has infected more than 7 million Americans. Meanwhile, a senior Republican questioned Meadows' approach to situation, saying it was 'being handled badly.' 'Anyone taking medical/psychological advice from the chief of staff or his communications team should have their head examined,' the senior Republican told DailyMail.com. 'It is being handled badly,' the person continued, 'whether the president is fit as a fiddle or on his deathbed.' White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows has been sleeping at Walter Reed Medical Center, he accompanied President Trump to the hospital on Friday evening and is seen above watching the president exit Marine One upon their arrival The White House on Saturday released a photo of President Donald Trump working in Walter Reed Trump was furious at Meadows over the botched message, CNN reported, with concerns the chief of staff has undermined the credibility of the medical briefings. Meadows, who has been sleeping at Walter Reed hospital, was seen at Conley's briefing on Sunday seated to one side, his head in his hands. He went on Fox News Saturday night to deliver a different message. President Trump is known to be a regular viewer of the cable news network. 'He's probably one of the hardest-working men that I've ever had the privilege of knowing,' he said of the president. 'I can say this, that the doctor is exactly right. He is doing extremely well. In fact, I'm very, very optimistic, based on the current results.' Samir Arora, founder and manager of Singapore-based hedge fund Helios Capital, is not convinced about a recovery in the auto sector, which has been among the industries hit hard by the coronavirus disruptions. He is also not bullish on the "Unlock" trade on which many market participants are betting on as lockdown restrictions are eased. "I am very much influenced by what happens in the US and I feel that Indian market, not just because we are copy cats, but because that is how the trends happen and percolate down to emerging markets, and I feel that the auto industry, for example, will be completely disrupted in five-seven years in US," Arora said in an interview to CNBCTV18. "It may not happen in India for 20 years but then the (auto) stocks dont move if we can see things having being disrupted in the rest of the world, he said. Similarly, he is dismissive of the economic recovery-market linkage.In the past, we have seen that playing the economic recovery has not worked for many years," he said. Arora said the widely held view in the market was that share prices will move up as the economy recovers but it is unlikely because past trends are likely to hold. Arora said that 70 percent of the positions in his fund are long. He said his fund had more than a 20 percent weightage in technology stocks. Arora said he was bullish on the banking sector, as the prices have become attractive after having fallen sharply. Advertisement Coronavirus cases across the United States are continuing to rise with an average of 42,600 new infections per day - as nine states report record increases in the number of cases over the last week. The number of infections across the country have been rising steadily since mid-September. There were about 35,500 cases reported on Sunday, which is below average due to a lag in weekend data reporting. Deaths are still trending downwards nationally with an average of 700 Americans each day. Fatalities are a lagging indicator and can rise several weeks after cases increase. Nearly 210,000 Americans have now died from coronavirus and there have been 7.4 million confirmed infections nationwide. The number of COVID-19 infections across the country have been rising steadily since mid-September and are averaging around 42,600 per day Deaths are still trending downwards nationally with an average of 700 Americans each day. Fatalities are a lagging indicator and can rise several weeks after cases increase Nine states have reported record increases in COVID-19 cases in the last week - mostly in the Midwest and West where colder weather has already set in, according to a Reuters analysis. Kentucky, Minnesota, Montana and Wisconsin all saw record increases in new cases on Saturday alone. Kansas, Nebraska, New Hampshire, South Dakota and Wyoming also set new records for cases last week. Montana has reported record numbers of new cases for three out of the last four days and also has a record number of COVID-19 patients in its hospitals. Wisconsin has set records for new cases two out of the last three days and also reported record hospitalizations on Saturday. On average 22 percent of tests are coming back positive, one of the highest rates in the country. North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin have the highest new cases per capita in the country. Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson is one of several prominent Republicans who have tested positive for coronavirus since President Donald Trump announced last week that he had contracted the virus. Kentucky is the first southern state to report a record increase in cases in several weeks. Governor Andy Beshear said last week was the highest number of cases the state has seen since the pandemic started. State health experts have not pinpointed the reason for the rise but point to fatigue with COVID-19 precautions and students returning to schools and colleges. Over the last two weeks, Kentucky has reported nearly 11,000 new cases and has seen hospitalizations of COVID-19 patients rise by 20 percent. New York is one of only 18 states where cases have not risen greatly over the past two weeks. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, however, said on Sunday that he is moving to shut non-essential businesses and schools in nine neighborhoods starting on Wednesday due to a spike in positivity rates. The lockdown would require the governor's approval. While NYC's positivity rates remain low compared to other major cities across the country, de Blasio said the uptick was concerning. Prior to the recent uptick in NYC, the positivity rate - which is the proportion of positive results out of the total number of tests performed - had long hovered around one percent. The positivity rate in those hotspot neighborhoods, which are in Brooklyn and Queens, is as high as eight percent. The uptick in cases nationwide comes as President Trump continues to be treated in hospital for COVID-19. Over the weekend, Trump released several video addresses in which he promised he was in good health despite his diagnosis and the White House shared photographs of him working at the hospital. He claims to have been meeting some of the wounded veterans who are also being treated in the hospital. On Sunday night, he made a surprise appearance outside the hospital to thank fans who had turned out with signs, flags and banners wishing him a speedy recovery. Trump said he was touched by the outpouring of support and wanted to show his appreciation. But doctors - including one from Walter Reed - say it was irresponsible of him to get into the Presidential SUV with Secret Service agents and risk infecting them. Dr James Phillips, a Walter Reed attending doctor, condemned the president's Sunday afternoon drive, which violated Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines. He said it was dangerous and reckless, in comments which quickly went viral. New York is one of only 18 states where cases have not risen greatly over the past two weeks. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, however, said on Sunday that he is moving to shut non-essential businesses and schools in nine neighborhoods starting on Wednesday due to a spike in positivity rates Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ghina Ghaliya and Marchio Irfan Gorbiano (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 6 2020 The government and the House of Representatives passed on Monday the controversial omnibus bill on job creation into law, which is expected to bring a radical change in the countrys labor system and natural resources management. The final draft of the bill, a copy of which was obtained by The Jakarta Post, is 905 pages long and amends 79 prevailing laws, including the Labor Law, the Spatial Planning Law and Environmental Management Law. The Job Creation Law, which is one of President Joko Jokowi Widodos key priorities in his second and final term, is expected to improve bureaucratic efficiency and cut red tape, particularly in regard to business permits and investment. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login RTHK: Thailand seeks extradition of Red Bull heir Thai police said on Monday they would seek the extradition of the fugitive heir to the Red Bull energy drink fortune, after Interpol issued a global "red notice" seeking his arrest over a deadly hit-and-run. Vorayuth Yoovidhya, whose whereabouts are unknown, was accused of crashing his Ferrari into a policeman in 2012 and dragging his body at high speed before fleeing the scene. The case has generated big interest in Thailand, amid simmering outrage about perceived impunity for the wealthy and connected. Police spokesman Kissana Phathanacharoen said Interpol issued the notice last week after a Thai court in August approved an arrest warrant for reckless driving causing death and a new charge of drug use. He said Interpol's members would help establish his whereabouts, "so that he can be formally extradited back to us for further legal action". Vorayuth missed eight court summonses before authorities sought his arrest in 2017. He later disappeared and in July this year, anger erupted on social media when news broke that his case had been dropped, sparking calls for a boycott of Red Bull products. Vorayuth is a grandson of the late Chaleo Yoovidhya, who created the energy drink Krating Daeng, or Red Bull, and co-founded the international Red Bull GmbH brand with an Austrian partner. The new warrant followed a review of evidence previously not included in police reports, which suggested Vorayuth's car was travelling faster than previously thought, and that the suspect's blood test indicated cocaine use. Neither Vorayuth nor the immediate Yoovidhya family have commented on the charges. TCP Group, which owns the Thai Red Bull brand, said in July it is run by Vorayuth's uncle and not directly associated with Vorayuth, whose father has part ownership in the international brand. (Reuters) This story has been published on: 2020-10-05. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. OTTAWA - Former Green leader Elizabeth May slammed the New Democrats Monday for refusing to withdraw their candidate in a coming byelection, arguing doing so would allow the first Black woman elected to lead a federal party in Canada to win a seat. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. New Green party leader Annamie Paul celebrates after speaking at the leadership announcement in Ottawa, Saturday October 3, 2020. Paul succeeds Elizabeth May, who stepped down last fall after leading the party for 13 years. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld OTTAWA - Former Green leader Elizabeth May slammed the New Democrats Monday for refusing to withdraw their candidate in a coming byelection, arguing doing so would allow the first Black woman elected to lead a federal party in Canada to win a seat. Annamie Paul became the new leader of the Green party Saturday after winning on the eighth ballot. Uniting the party and pushing Green policies on the pandemic and climate change are high on her agenda, but her first order of business is the Toronto Centre byelection scheduled for Oct. 26. Paul was acclaimed as the Green candidate there before the leadership race ended but May says now that Paul is the leader, the other parties should stand down. May had particularly harsh words for NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, who won a 2019 byelection in the Burnaby South riding. May said Singh was not a "shoo-in" to win that byelection. She said the Greens were very strong there at the time but still offered not to run a candidate against him, and that Singh told her that was "a very classy" thing to do. "I'd like Jagmeet Singh to think about it," she said Monday. "I'd like New Democrats to reach out to him and say, 'How classy is it to try to block the entry to the House of Commons of the first Black woman leader of a federal political party?' Consider what Rosemary Brown would think." Brown was the first Black woman elected to a provincial legislature when she became an MLA in British Columbia in 1972. She also was the first Black woman to run for the leadership of a federal party, finishing second to Ed Broadbent in the NDP's race in 1975. Anne McGrath, national director of the NDP, said in a statement that Brian Chang, who is the party's candidate in Toronto Centre, was chosen by members democratically and that he will not withdraw. "Every Canadian deserves to vote for the party they believe in, and with Brian Chang, they can count on someone who will fight for them," she said. The NDP also pointed out that in 2019, the party did not ask for the Greens to avoid running a candidate against Singh. Toronto Centre is a Liberal stronghold, with that party winning the seat in every election since 1993. It is vacant after former finance minister Bill Morneau stepped down in August. The Liberals have nominated Marci Ien, who took a leave of absence as co-host of CTV's talk show The Social. Liberal party spokesman Braeden Caley confirmed Ien will remain on the ballot. "We congratulate Ms. Paul on her election as Green party leader and wish her well as her party's candidate in the riding," Caley said in an email. "Marci Iens campaign in Toronto Centre is looking forward to a positive contrast of ideas with all of the other parties." The Conservatives have nominated candidates in both Toronto Centre and in York Centre in northwestern Toronto, where a byelection is happening the same day. People's Party of Canada Leader Maxime Bernier is running for his party in York Centre. Green party spokeswoman Rosie Emery said the Greens have a candidate nominated for York Centre who is awaiting official confirmation by Elections Canada. Paul says she is not surprised none of the other parties will stand down in Toronto Centre but that she is used to overcoming obstacles. "I am a first, and as a first you're accustomed to fighting," she said. "You're accustomed to having to overcome every single barrier to get where you're trying to go to. If we have to do that yet again in Toronto Centre then we are prepared to do so." Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Paul ran and finished fourth in Toronto Centre in the 2019 general election, with seven per cent of the vote. Morneau won with 57 per cent, followed by the NDP in second with 22 per cent. Paul did nearly triple the Greens' vote in that election versus the one before. Paul, 47, says there is one obvious thing she brings to Parliament Hill as the Green leader, using her hands to mime a picture frame around her face. She said diversity in the party and on Parliament Hill are critical. She said policies that harm people of colour are not likely to be made when Black Canadians are at the table. "What I bring is hope, hope to all the people that have not seen themselves represented in politics to this point," she said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. YEREVAN, Armenia - Armenia accused Azerbaijan of firing missiles into the capital of the separatist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh on Monday, while Azerbaijan said several of its towns and its second-largest city were attacked. Iran, which borders both countries, said it was working on a peace plan for the decades-old conflict, which reignited last month and has killed scores of people on both sides. The region of Nagorno-Karabakh lies inside Azerbaijan but has been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia since the end of a separatist war in 1994. Armenian military officials reported missile strikes in the territorial capital of Stepanakert, which came under intense attacks all weekend. Residents told the Russian state RIA Novosti news agency that parts of the city were suffering shortages of electricity and gas after the strikes. The Azerbaijani Defence Ministry, in turn, accused Armenian forces of shelling the towns of Tartar, Barda and Beylagan. Ganja, the countrys second-largest city far outside the conflict zone, also was under fire, officials said. Hikmet Hajiyev, aide to Azeirbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, tweeted that Armenian forces attacked densely populated civilian areas in Ganja, Barda, Beylagan and other towns with missiles and rockets. Armenias Foreign Ministry dismissed allegations of attacks being launched from Armenias territory as a disinformation campaign by Azerbaijan. Nagorno-Karabakh officials didnt comment on the accusations, but warned on both Sunday and Monday that the territorys forces would target military facilities in Azerbaijani cities in response to strikes on Stepanakert. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the escalating violence and again urged an immediate halt to hostilities, stressing that there is no military solution to the conflict, his spokesman said. The U.N. chief is gravely concerned by reports of the extension of hostilities, including the targeting of populated areas, spokesman Stephane Dujarric said, He urges a return to negotiations led by Russia, France and the United States co-chairs of the so-called Minsk Group, which was set up by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in 1992 to resolve the conflict. The fighting erupted Sept. 27 and has killed dozens, marking the biggest escalation in the conflict. Both sides have accused each other of expanding the hostilities beyond Nagorno-Karabakh. According to Nagorno-Karabakh officials, about 220 servicemen on their side have died in the clashes since then. The state-run Armenian Unified Infocenter said that 21 civilians have been killed in the region and 82 others wounded. Azerbaijani authorities havent given details about military casualties, but said 25 civilians were killed and 127 wounded. Both sides have repeatedly accused each other of targeting civilians and have reported damage to nonmilitary infrastructure. Azerbaijani President Aliyev said his troops liberated several more villages in the Jabrayil region. A similar report about the town of Jabrayil and its surrounding villages on Sunday was denied by Nagorno-Karabakh officials. Nagorno-Karabakh was a designated autonomous region within Azerbaijan during the Soviet era. It claimed independence from Azerbaijan in 1991, about three months before the Soviet Unions collapse. A full-scale war that broke out in 1992 killed an estimated 30,000 people. By the time the war ended in 1994, Armenian forces not only held Nagorno-Karabakh itself but also substantial areas outside the territory borders, like the Jabrayil region where Azerbaijan claimed to have taken a town and several villages. Aliyev has repeatedly said Armenias withdrawal from Nagorno-Karabakh is the sole condition to end the fighting. Armenian officials allege Turkey is involved in the conflict on the side of Azerbaijan and is sending fighters from Syria to the region. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said a cease-fire can be established only if Turkey is removed from the South Caucasus. Turkey, a NATO member, has denied sending arms or foreign fighters, while publicly siding with Azerbaijan. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated that Turkey will stand with its ally Azerbaijan until it reaches victory. He also maintained that it was the international communitys silence in the face of what he called past Armenian aggression that encouraged it to attack Azerbaijani territory. After talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu in Ankara, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters that the military alliance is deeply concerned by the escalation of hostilities, and urged Turkey to use its considerable influence to calm tensions. Cavusoglu repeated calls for Armenia to withdraw from the region in line with international laws, U.N. Security Council resolutions and Azerbaijans territorial and border integrity. The Foreign Ministry of Iran, which has nearly 760 kilometres (470 miles) of border with Azerbaijan and a short border with Armenia, said it is working on a peace plan. Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh did not elaborate but said Iran is talking to all related parties. Iran has prepared a plan with a specific framework containing details after consultations with both sides of the dispute, Azerbaijan and Armenia, as well as regional states and neighbours, and will pursue this plan, he said. Khatibzadeh also warned both sides against expanding the hostilities into Iranian territory. Any aggression against the borders of the Islamic Republic, even inadvertently, is a very serious red line for the Islamic Republic that should not be crossed, he said. Since the beginning of the conflict, stray mortar shells have injured a child and damaged some buildings in rural areas in northern Iran, near the border with Azerbaijan. - Associated Press writers Aida Sultanova in Baku, Azerbaijan; Daria Litvinova in Moscow; Nasser Karimi in Tehran; Lorne Cook in Brussels; and Suzan Fraser in Ankara, Turkey, contributed. New Delhi: A historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed on Tuesday (October 6, 2020) between the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Center (ISLRTC) and National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to make educational materials accessible for deaf children in their preferred format of communication viz Indian Sign Language. As part of this MoU, educational print materials such as NCERT Textbooks, Teachers Handbook and other Supplementary materials and resources of Class I-XII of all subjects of both Hindi and English Medium will be converted into Indian Sign Language in Digital format. The signing of this MoU is a historic step as availability of NCERT textbooks in Indian Sign Language will ensure that deaf children can also now access educational resources in Indian Sign Language and it will be a useful and much-needed resource for dead students, teachers, parents and the deaf community. This will also ensure educational standardization of Indian Sign Language as mandated in the New Education Policy (NEP), 2020. This MoU will be signed in the virtual presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Union Minister for Education, Shakuntala Doley Gamlin, Secretary, DEPwD and Anita Karwal, Secretary (SE&L), Ministry of Education. On the occasion, I, along with Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment Shri @TCGEHLOT Ji, will be signing an MoU for creating teaching-learning material in Indian Sign Language. The MoU will be signed between @ncert, @EduMinOfIndia, @IslrtcOfficial, and @MSJEGOI. Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank (@DrRPNishank) October 5, 2020 Prabodh Seth, Joint Secretary, DEPwD and Director, ISLRTC and Hrushikesh Senapathy, Director, NCERT will sign the MoU from the respective institutes. Notably, the ISLRTC is an autonomous national institute of DEPwD, MSJE which is dedicated to the task of developing man-power for popularizing the use of Indian Sign Language, teaching and conducting research in Indian Sign Language. On the other hand, the NCERT is an autonomous organization under MHRD which is responsible for ensuring qualitative improvement in school education by undertaking and promoting research in areas related to school education. NCERT also prepares and publish model textbooks, supplementary material, newsletters, journals and develops educational kits, multimedia digital materials, etc. It develops and disseminates innovative educational techniques and practices, and act as a nodal agency for achieving the goals of Universalization of elementary education. A man named Rohit Srivastava, has become the first to donate towards the construction of the mosque in Ayodhya. Rohit, a Hindu by birth, is a law faculty employee of the Lucknow University. He donated an amount of Rs 21,000 on Saturday. The first contribution for building the mosque came from a Hindu brother and this exemplifies the Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb, or Indo-Islamic culture, Athar Hussain, mosque trust secretary told TOI. Also read: COVID-19 Puts An End To Fabled Ram Leela In Ayodhya This Year, Deepotsav To Go Virtual ANI The amount will be used by the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF) constituted by the Sunni Waqf Board to build the mosque, library, museum and community kitchen. Discussing as to why he donated the amount, he said that Indian Hindus and Muslims celebrate all festivals together. He also urged other Hindus to donate for the construction. I come from a generation which is rooted in syncretism, where religious barriers blur. I dont celebrate Holi or Diwali without my Muslim friends and they dont celebrate Eid without me. This is the story of crores of Hindus and Muslims in India. I appeal to members of the Hindu community to come forward and donate for the mosque to send out a message that Muslims are our brothers, he said. ANI The Dhannipur mosque that will come up in Ayodhya in lieu of the demolished Babri mosque, will be square-shaped like the Kaaba Sharif in Mecca. Earlier, Athar Hussain had said, "A mosque measuring 15,000 square feet will be built in Dhannipur village. It will be of the same size as that of the Babri mosque. The shape of the mosque may be completely different from that of the other mosques. It may be square-shaped like the Kaaba Sharif in Mecca, as hinted by architect SM Akhtar." Also read: Eminent Architect And Dean Of Architecture In Jamia, SM Akhtar To Design The Ayodhya Mosque AFP What a noble thing to do! India has recorded more than 66.2 lakh cases of the novel coronavirus and 1,02,685 deaths. Of these, more than 9.3 lakh are active cases while over 55.8 lakh have recovered. Across the country, 9,89,860 samples were tested for the novel coronavirus on October 4, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said. Maharashtra's COVID-19 tally remains the highest among Indian states and union territories, according to the Union Health Ministry's latest update. The health ministry updates its numbers a day after states release their data. Globally, more than 3.4 crore infections and over 10.3 lakh deaths have been reported due to the COVID-19 outbreak. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show Here are all the latest updates: >> Active COVID-19 cases in the country have remained under the 10-lakh mark for two consecutive weeks, Union Health Ministry said today. >> Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur has self-isolated himself for three days as a precautionary measure after he came in contact with a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA who has tested positive for COVID-19. >> The Union government will soon roll out a renewed campaign that aims to spread awareness about "appropriate COVID-19 behaviour" in view of the forthcoming festive season and further unlocking of public activities, officials said today. >> The head of emergencies at the World Health Organisation says its best estimates indicate that roughly one in 10 people worldwide may have been infected by the coronavirus. >> Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has declared that New Zealand "beat the virus again" and announced restrictions in the country's largest city would be eased , after a second COVID-19 wave was contained. The virus was believed to have been eradicated in late May after a strict national lockdown led to New Zealanders enjoying 102 days without community transmission. Days after a panel of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) looking into the autopsy report of Sushant Singh Rajput ruled out murder, Shiv Sena on Monday said that it was speechless if people still questioned the Central Bureau of Investigations (CBIs) probe into the case. Sena leader Sanjay Raut alleged that since the beginning there has been a conspiracy to malign the Maharashtra government and the Mumbai police, which were earlier investigating Rajputs death. It (AIIMS report) is as per the reports of Dr Sudhir Gupta, who is the head of AIIMS Forensic Medical Board in Sushant Singh Rajput death case. He doesnt have any political connection or any links with the Shiv Sena, Raut said over the AIIMS report saying that the 34-year-old actor died by suicide, according to news agency ANI. Since the very beginning, in this case, there has been a conspiracy to malign Maharashtra government and Mumbai Police. If now CBI inquiry is also not being trusted, then were speechless, he added. Rauts remarks came as Rajputs family plans to request CBI that a new forensic team be formed as they alleged the AIIMS teams report was inconclusive. Highly perturbed with AIIMS report. Going to request CBI Director to constitute a fresh Forensic team. How could AIIMS team give a conclusive report in the absence of the body, that too on such shoddy post mortem done by Cooper hospital wherein time of death also not mentioned, Vikas Singh, the lawyer of Rajputs father KK Singh, wrote on Twitter. The lawyer had previously claimed that a doctor who part of the AIIMS panel had told him long back that the actors photos indicated that it was death by strangulation and not suicide. Rajput was found dead in his Bandra apartment on June 14. It finally happened: they banned singing in schools, and along with it, our national anthem has undergone a radical revision. O Canada, our home and native land! has due to concerns about COVID become hmmm hmmmm hmm hmm, hmm hmm hmm hmm hmm hmm. The playing of the national anthem remains a very important part of the start of each day, noted John Shewchuk, spokesperson for the Waterloo Catholic District School Board. (But) as a safety measure, there is no singing of any kind happening in schools. Shewchuk dont shoot the messenger is echoing Ontario health policies that direct school boards to avoid activities that will increase the spread of respiratory droplets from students, such as singing or cheering. In a cinematic sense, its like the Kevin Bacon flick Footloose, where the town elders ban dancing in small town America because theyre convinced it will lead to juvenile delinquency. Now that public health is convinced singing will lead to COVID catastrophe, it too is banned, to be followed, Im guessing, by prohibitions on talking, whispering, exaggerated sighing and, possibly, breathing. Consider humming rather than singing while wearing masks, public health has advised. Singing, yelling and loud talking may generate more respiratory droplets and propel droplets further than normal speaking, thereby increasing the risk for those nearby. This is institutional robotspeak for If you kids dont shut your yaps, theres gonna be trouble COVID trouble! In this scenario, Public Health officials are like the Footloose church elders who want to ban fun, while school enforcers are the traffic cops who stop Kevin Bacon on the highway and tell him Watch that attitude, boy, or Im a gonna take you in! This isnt to say they arent totally justified. People can get sick and die from COVID, so cracking down on melodious exclamations of musical joy is, to be fair, the responsible thing to do. Im also relieved the debate about O Canadas controversial lyric in all thy sons command replaced in 2018 with the gender neutral in all of us command can finally be put to an end, with both versions now emitted as an atonal monosyllabic murmur. And yet, on some level come on, no singing? the whole thing seems ridiculous. Without choirs and glee clubs to facilitate positive engagement, restless students in overflowing classrooms with no social distancing will be forced to content themselves with coughing on each others lunches and using their face masks as slingshots. And consider the generational repercussions. What if COVID had hit while Gordon Lightfoot was attending elementary school in Orillia in the late 1940s, where his first public performance the Irish lullaby Too Ra Loo Ra Loo Ral was broadcast over the public address system on Parents' Day? Had the current restrictions been in place, young Gordie might have hummed the tune to no notice, forfeited his place in Orillia's St. Paul's United Church choir which he credits with teaching him to sing with emotion and become a bus driver. Where would Neil Young be today if warbling in the school hallway in 1950s Omemee, Ont. a teacher bellowed, Neil, if you dont shut your yap, youll spend the next three weeks in detention! Had Justin Bieber not been allowed to sing during his school years in Stratford, he might never have started busking on the steps of the Avon Theatre or signed a major record deal. Mind you, its not as if its impossible to record a hit song on a foundation of humming. The Crash Test Dummies Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm, Simon & Garfunkels America and Johnny Cashs I Walk The Line, all make generous use of low guttural rumbles set to instrumentation. Just as rap usurped rock and grunge trounced hair metal, humming may prove to be the musical innovation critics have been longing for for 30 years. If were lucky, it may even inspire a teenage musical patterned after Footloose that culminates in a sea of rebellious vocal chords bursting into gleeful song in a socially distanced school parking lot. Since it will be set in Canada, they will, of course, be wearing face masks. But as Android Auto users learned the hard way, YouTube Music doesnt seem to be fully prepared to take the place of Google Play Music in the car, especially because essential functionality is still missing. Including support for specific Google Assistant commands, something that the Mountain View-based search giant is working resolving as we speak.By the looks of things, Google Assistant will soon be able to play user-generated playlists on YouTube Music, a feature that should have been there from the very beginning, theres no doubt about it.While Google has remained completely tight-lipped on this feature, some users are silently getting this new capability if theyre running YouTube Music. Simply saying Hey Google, play [playlist name] playlist without even mentioning YouTube Music instructs Google Assistant to launch the app and start the playback automatically.This also shows that YouTube Music becomes the preferred music player on Android and Android Auto, and this makes total sense given that Google is trying to convince all users to give it a try.But as far as Android Auto users are concerned, YouTube Music is still far from providing the experience they expect behind the wheel. One major shortcoming of YouTube Music is its premium subscription model, which blocks users from listening to their own libraries unless they pay.This also happens for users making the switch from Google Play Music and who previously purchased music from the service, so technically, YouTube Music blocks customers from listening to the songs they already paid for. The good news is that Google has already promised to improve the experience with YouTube Music in the long term, and this new Google Assistant update is living proof that the company is committed to this approach. BRIDGEPORT The University of Bridgeport spent $8.3 million more than it made in the 2018-19 fiscal year and burned through $8.7 million of its modest endowment, according to a fiscal filing by the university recently made public. The federal Internal Revenue Service documents released late last month shows that UB ended the fiscal year in June 2019 with a $25.2 million endowment. Two years prior, its endowment was at $37 million, its highest level in decades. The 2018-19 fiscal year was the first and only full year of former UB President Laura Trombleys tenure. She left in April, having served 18 months. Just before her departure, Trombley sent an email to the university community on March 30 saying the university anticipated an operating deficit in the 2019-20 fiscal year of approximately $12.5 million. The filing for that year has not yet been released. If the expected losses held true, it likely would have cut the universitys $25 million endowment in half. At the time, Trombley said the loss came despite efforts to renegotiate vendor contracts, reduce the campus footprint and close buildings. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, UB laid off 33 employees and furloughed 93 others, according to Trombley. Other staff took pay cuts. Contributed Photo / Contributed Photo To accomplish our goal of a non-deficit budget by the end of the academic year 2021, we will continue to decrease costs and grow revenues, Trombley wrote in the March email. Three days later, Trombley was introduced as the new president of Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas. Acting UB President Stephen Healey, who was provost during Trombleys tenure, said Friday he was willing to speak about the IRS form, but then reneged to prepare for a Board of Trustees meeting, he said. On Monday, he said he, along with UBs chief financial officer Yuet Lee, would talk about the federal filing when he had more time. Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media Trombley did not respond to requests to comment on this story, nor did UB Board of Trustees Chairman Robert Berchem. In June, UB signed a memorandum of understanding with three other higher education institutions to essentially absorb the 97-year-old institutions programs and property. Those deals are still being negotiated, and on Monday, Sacred Heart University announced it was backing out of the planned partnership. Goodwin University President Mark Scheinberg, whose institution is expected to take control of the lions share of the seaside campus and its offerings, had told members of the Bridgeport City Council last week in a Zoom meeting that he expected the deal would happen by the end of this calendar year. On Friday, Scheinberg said there is little he is allowed to say about UB finances because of a signed non-disclosure agreement. What you are seeing (in 2018-19) is pretty much in line with the same story, Scheinberg said. They were deteriorating during that entire time. Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media In announcing the decision to withdraw from the deal, SHU President John Petillo cited UBs finances as one of the reasons. The enrollment projections, and the corresponding financial projections, provided to us by UBs principal lender and its consulting firm when the letter of intent was signed, did not materialize, Petillo said in a memo to the Sacred Heart community. The IRS filing UBs disclosed financial documents for 2018-19 show it took in $138.6 million in revenue, compared with $147.3 million in the last year of Neil Salonens presidency. Expenses were down too, but not nearly enough to make ends meet. When that fiscal year ended, UB had spent just over $147 million, some $6.7 million less than the year before. Investments also dropped nearly $9 million to $20.8 million, according to the financial documents. Cathy Zuraw / Hearst Connecticut Media Susan Williams, a vice president for finance at UB for nine years before leaving the university in August 2018, said UBs 2018-19 financial condition is not a surprise. I knew it was coming, Williams said. I warned people. Its hard to warn people about something you see in the future and they dont and it hasnt happened yet. Salonen had been in charge at UB for 18 years, slowly building up an institution that nearly went bankrupt in the early 1990s. It was bailed out with help from the controversial Unification Church, to which Salonen belonged. By the time Salonen retired in June 2018, he was widely hailed as a community ally and UB had weaned itself from church support. A year into Trombelys presidency, UBs Board of Trustees made an official pronouncement that the ties with the Unification Church as a benefactor had been severed. It did so when it was engaged with talks to absorb Marlboro College, a tiny Vermont liberal arts college with a $35 million endowment. That deal fell through. Salonen, in an interview on Friday, said UBs financial condition the year after he left does not surprise him. Maybe a little bit, he quickly conceded. Salonen said he knew the dip in international students, triggered by the Trump administrations January 2017 travel ban, would hurt UBs bottom line, but he also said it was a challenge that could have and should have been met. It is hard but you can do it, Salonen said, adding he would have developed a plan to balance the budget even if it meant cutting staff and programs. He said he did it several times during his tenure. What they inherited was something done very well, Salonen said. There was a tremor in the force with the international students. That was real but that was the challenge, not anything else. Under Trombley, the focus was on domestic students and on liberal arts, her strong suits. Linda Conner Lambeck / Trombley replaced staff and invested in things like a campus bowling alley. She moved commencement back to campus under a tent, instead of at the Webster Bank Arena at Harbor Yard. Moving commencement was supposed to save money, but instead cost more, according to multiple sources. When Trombley was hired, Berchem and others declined to say how much she would be paid. Her pay, according to the IRS filing, was $297,412 for the six months she was in office during the calendar year, since she started in July 2018. The average salary for college presidents at private doctoral institutions, as reported by the Chronicle of Higher Education that year, was about $290,000. Bishop John Yaw Adu 05.10.2020 LISTEN As the December 7 general elections gather momentum, many self-acclaimed men and women of God have been making predictions and prophecies that declares some political parties winners and losers. But in the view of the founder and leader of the New Jerusalem Chapel located in Kumasi Sokoban-Ampayoo in the Ashanti Region, Bishop John Yaw Adu, such pastors are "stomach prophets" who make predictions for fame and money. The Bishop told this reporter in an interview in Kumasi that as an experienced man of God with good track record, he always feel ashamed and disappointed when he comes across pastors who quickly abandon the gospel and resort to election predictions during election periods. "Where are their scriptural justification that it is only during election times that prophecies come to men of God? Many of these pastors in the country are nothing but lotto forecasters hiding behind the Bible to predict election results for fame and money," he stated. The clergy stressed that the aim of such pastors is to gain access or favour from politicians who ignorantly failed to think twice about these so-called prophecies and eventually ended up paying them huge sums of monies as prophecies fee just to shore up their political chances and fake hope for their party supporters. Describing such pastors as false prophets the Bible speaks about, Bishop Dr Adu also asked why these so called pastors failed to see the covid-19 pandemic coming and when it was going to hit Ghana for people to prepare ahead of time. He also wonders why these pastors prophecy only the bigger political parties and not small parties as well as the death of politicians, celebrities, chiefs, prominent people among others but not the poor. Bishop Dr Adu who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Days TV in Kumasi noted that many people who are parading themselves as pastors are disgracing the sanctity and dragging the image of the clergy work into the mud. He calls on government to as a matter of national interest establish a regulatory body with the full mandate to check the activities of the unscrupulous people who rising through fake and doomsday prophecies. Current Affairs H aitian National, Neltha Jean-Francois Hosse, was charged and taken before the Magistrate's Court in Providenciales to answer to the offence of harbouring illegal immigrants. Ms. Hosse pleaded guilty to two offences of harbouring illegal immigrants and was fined $1,000.00 for each offence. The court gave her seven days to pay the fine, failing which she would be imprisoned. The payment became due on March 21, 2020, and she paid. The court also recommended deportation at the end of the sentence. On September, 11th, 2020, Ms. Hosse was issued with the deportation order and subsequently deported to Haiti on Monday 28th September, 28th, 2020. A government press statement reminded the public that a person who is found to be in contravention of the Immigration Ordinance and commits an offence of harbouring is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $20,000 or to imprisonment for a term of four years, or to both. In addition, the Enforcement Unit within the Immigration Department also arrested and charged four Dominican nationals and one Columbian national, for remaining in the islands beyond the permitted time. These persons were taken before the Magistrates Court where they pleaded guilty for the mentioned offence. The court has recommended deportation for three of these individuals in addition to a fine, while the other two were given seven days to leave the islands, where their names will be added to the Stop List of the Turks and Caicos Islands. During the year 2019, a total of (103) cases were taken before the Courts by the Enforcement Unit compared with (77) cases the previous year. Hon. Vaden Delroy Williams, Minister with responsibility for the Ministry of Immigration, Citizenship and Employment Services, commenting on the matter stated; With our borders now re-opened, I take this opportunity to remind the General Public once again, that in accordance with Section 32 and 33 of the Immigration Ordinance of the 2018 Revised Laws of Turks and Caicos, permits are authorized by the Director of Immigrations, the Board or Commissioner of Labour, for persons to reside or engage in gainful occupations and these permits are issued with conditions or restrictions set out therein." Williams said that in accordance with Section 102 (d) of the Immigration Ordinance of the 2018 Revised Laws of Turks and Caicos, it is an offence to remain within the Islands beyond the time permitted by an Immigration Officer. A person commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $10,000.00 or to imprisonment for a term of two years, or to both; and if the offence is a continuing one, to a further fine not exceeding $100 for every day or part of a day on which the offence has continued, he said. He added that a person commits an offence in accordance with section 19 (1) (g) and (2) of the prescribed ordinance, which states that a person shall not engage in any gainful occupation in the islands unless in the possession of a valid permit issued under section 31,39 or 40, which a person shall not employ whether on his own behalf or on behalf of another person whether under a contract of employment or a contract for services who under subsection (1) is prohibited from engaging in any gainful occupation. "Employers are to note that if you terminate a work permit holder during the period of airport closure or any other time, you are still responsible for the individual until it is possible for that person or persons, to leave the country. Employers must also ensure that they are in full compliance with section 106 (2) of the Employment Ordinance, by ensuring that their employee/s are still in housing until they depart the Turks and Caicos Islands," said Williams. The immigration minister reminded self-employed, and employed persons of their obligation to adhere to the conditions of their work permits as imposed by the Immigration Board. "Anyone who fails to comply with the conditions contained within their Work Permits in accordance with Regulations 35 and 42 commits an offence and is subject to prosecution," Williams added. He said persons who fall within any of the following categories should leave the Turks and Caicos Islands as soon as possible or "face the consequences of your actions. These categories are: Persons whose work permit has expired and the current employer does not intend to renew; Persons whose work permit has been cancelled; Persons who are currently unemployed, and will be unemployed for several months after the curfew has been lifted; If your temporary work permit has expired; Persons whose visitors visa has expired and you remained in the country illegally; Hon. Williams reiterated that our borders and that of many other countries are opened to international air traffic, all persons residing and or working in the Turks and Caicos Islands illegally should make plans to return to their home country or to any other country, which would welcome them or face legal consequences for their actions. "The prime responsibility of the Enforcement Unit is to increase compliance with the Immigration Law of the Turks and Caicos Islands. Through its enforcement operations, the Unit is responsible for the investigation, detection and prosecution of Immigration offenders and breaches of the law," he said. "The Enforcement Unit continues to partner with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, Customs Department, Planning Department, Business Licence and the Department of Employment in joint operations to regulate migration in line with government policy. Such joint operations continue to yield valuable intelligence and have resulted in arrests for various offences." Experience Safe and Efficient Housing Transactions with Ohmyhome Adulting gets real when you're already serious about one of the basic needs of the family- shelter. Having a place to call your own gives you a sense of fulfillment. The place that you call home is where all your dreams will come true. It doesn't need to be your own at first since you are still starting but this is what your goal should be, which according to houseey.com "Staying in the same home provides a better financial and emotional investment in both your community and living space. I'm lucky because my parents already had invested in real property during my childhood days and we have a house to call our own when I was in elementary. That being said I wonder how it feels to move from one house to another, what are the hassles of renting and moving out or looking for a new house. We can't blame the families or individuals who are renting or leasing properties as of the moment, they have reasons for doing such but whatever it is, the process should not be a pain. Have you experienced disappointments, frustrations, or even nightmares in buying, renting, or leasing a property? I hope not but if you're experiencing headaches on everything house transactions, there's one promising app that you need to know- Ohmyhome! Know more about Singapores leading PropTech startup which is set to disrupt the local real estate industry by bringing innovation to the way people buy, sell, and rent their properties. Experience Safe and Efficient Housing Transactions with Ohmyhome Ohmyhome PropTech App Singapores first one-stop online property platform that was launched in 2016 was projected to make housing transactions simple, fast, and affordable for everyone as it addressed perennial inefficiencies in the island nations real estate industry. Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder Rhonda Wong identified these as the lack of transparency and relevant information, the high costs involved, and the lengthy time it took to complete transactions. Experience Safe and Efficient Housing Transactions with Ohmyhome Race and Rhonda Wong, the Alpha behind Ohmyhome We learned that the average time it took to buy or sell property in Singapore ranged from 3 to 7 months, a tedious transaction journey that caused tremendous stress for homeowners, Rhonda relates. We wanted to streamline the entire housing transaction by providing accurate information so that our customers can make informed decisions when buying, selling, or renting their homes. Why Ohmyhome? Ohmyhome has proven its reliability as a platform, anchored on three primary advantagesit is simple, it is fast, and it provides value for money. 1. Simple Clients can choose whether to do it themselves through the DIY option or engage an experienced in-house agent who can evaluate their needs. 2. Fast Consumers can search through unique listings and access services that can get the job done three times faster than market norms in Singapore and Malaysia. 3. Efficient and Reliable It gives the clients their moneys worth, with efficient and reliable housing services. Ohmyhome Do-It-Yourself (DIY) As in Singapore and Malaysia, Ohmyhome will provide a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) option that will give Philippine customers a chance to simplify their home transaction process. Browse genuine listings that are free of dummy or duplicate accounts, saving them time in searching for the right property. Enjoy savings because the DIY platform comes absolutely freefrom listing all the way to deal closing. Experience Safe and Efficient Housing Transactions with Ohmyhome Ohmyhome Full-time In-house Property Agents Cost-friendly price. The companys proprietary technology will handle approximately 90% of the agents work such as sourcing for new leads, matching of suitable buyers to sellers, scheduling, and advertising. This frees up the agents to focus on the most crucial element of the jobour customers. This arrangement has been proven effective in Singapore, where Ohmyhome agents perform at the rate of the top 0.1% of agents, a level of competence they intend to bring to the Philippine property market. Rhonda says of their third foray into the Southeast Asian region that they are committed to providing a seamless end-to-end housing transaction that will make everything easier for their Philippine customers. And, in the context of the global pandemic, safea critical factor amid the Philippine governments ongoing concern for health protocols. Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder Race Wong affirm this, saying that Ohmyhome takes off in the Philippine real estate industry at a most auspicious period. I agree that Proptech is perfect for todays challenging times, offering value for money as it empowers customers to work out the best possible deals in the Philippine property market. All you have to do is download the app, browse the listing if you are looking for a property to buy, rent, or lease, OR upload your own property that you want to sell or lease. I'm relieved that Ohmyhome is already here in the Philippines because it's very timely in the situation that we are all facing right now. This pandemic hits home, our rental business was greatly affected and our tenants decided to withdraw their businesses last month. What we have now is a vacant commercial property that we are planning to lease next year after my father's first year death anniversary and I'm glad that Ohmhome is here to help because we really don't know where to start. Ohmyhome couldnt have chosen a better time to strengthen its global strategy. Prospective Filipino homeowners and property sellers will be happy to know that whatever challenges come, Ohmyhome can provide an easy, quick, and efficient end-to-end solution for all. WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Space Vehicles Directorate (RV) awarded Alion Science and Technology a $71 million task order with a 48-month period of performance to support the ARL/RV by developing and transitioning high pay-off space, information, and Electromagnetic Spectrum (EMS) related technologies that support national security. "Alion has a deep understanding of national security space threats and the associated drivers for shaping future space architectures. Our expertise in conducting physics-based modeling, simulation, and assessments for multi-domain analytics for space superiority and space control capabilities, operations, and architecture assures national security space missions support the warfighters." said Todd Stirtzinger, Alion Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Advanced Technology Group. "These will be the drivers for shaping future architectures, to include multi-domain dependencies and executing the assessment models for AFRL/RV." Alion will provide research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E) to develop innovative technology solutions to advance space mission capabilities in a multi-domain, joint, and coalition conflict. This effort includes synthesizing in-depth knowledge of threats to the space enterprise, assessing current and future situational awareness capabilities, and analyzing indication and warning thresholds, timelines, protection and defense response options to mitigate those threats. This task order was awarded under the Department of Defense Information Analysis Center Multi-Award Contract Multiple Award Contract (DoD IAC MAC), issued by the 774 Enterprise Sourcing Squadron (774 ESS)/ Plans/Programs (PKP). This material is based upon work supported by the DoD IAC Program Management Office (PMO), sponsored by the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) under Contract No. FA807518D0002. ABOUT ALION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION Solving some of our nation's most complex national security challenges, Alion works side-by-side with our Defense and Intelligence communities as we design and deliver advanced engineering solutions to meet current and future demands. We go beyond the superficial and dive deep into the root of the engineering complexities and bring innovation to reality. With global industry expertise in Big Data, Analytics, and Cyber Security; Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning; Live, Virtual, and Constructive Training; Electronic Warfare and C5ISR; and Rapid Prototyping and Manufacturing, Alion delivers mission success where and when it matters most. To learn more, visit www.alionscience.com. ABOUT DOD IAC PROGRAM The DoD IAC program operates as a part of Defense Technical Information Center and provides technical data management and research support for DoD and federal government users. Established in the 1940s, the IAC program serves the DoD Science & Technology (S&T) and acquisition communities driving innovation and technological developments by enhancing collaboration through integrated scientific and technical information development and dissemination for the DoD and broader S&T community. Disclaimer. "This material is based upon work supported by the DoD Information Analysis Center Program Management Office (DoD IAC PMO), sponsored by the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC)under Contract No. FA807518D0002." Approved for Public Release, Distribution Unlimited. "Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Air Force Installation Contracting Command (AFICC)." SOURCE Alion Science and Technology Corporation Related Links http://www.alionscience.com Society is no longer judgmental of women who choose not to have children as long as they have thought about it and made an active decision. That's the preliminary finding of new research from Edith Cowan University examining the attitudes towards people who are childless or child-free. Kate Banister and her husband Ian decided more than five years ago to remain child-free and have no regrets. Credit:James Brickwood Bronwyn Harman, a senior lecturer at the university, said the findings were "very clear". Based on a national survey with a sample of nearly 500, women who decide not to have children are perceived just as positively as mothers. But women who have put off the decision about whether or not to have children or have never contemplated parenthood are judged more harshly. "They might not agree with the choice [not to have children] but they feel at least the person's made a choice and they can respect them for that," Dr Harman said. "Whereas they see the procrastinators and non-contemplators as fence-sitters." A drunken EDL thug who threw a bottle at police and told officers they had failed their country at a Black Lives Matter counter protest has been jailed for 12 months. Bricklayer Steven Pantony, 39, repeatedly kicked a barrier and yelled drunken abuse during the far-right riot in Parliament Square on June 13. BLM had cancelled their planned demo earlier in the day but counter protesters still gathered to 'protect' central London's statues. After seeing images of himself circulating online single father-of-two Pantony handed himself in to police. Pantony, from Rainham, Kent, claimed he had no recollection of the day because he was so drunk but admitted violent disorder at Southwark Crown Court. He was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment. He has 17 previous convictions for 22 offences including violent disorder, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and battery. Steven Pantony, 39, threw a bottle at police and told officers they had failed their country at a Black Lives Matter counter protest 'Statue defenders' stand near the Cenotaph on June 13, before later clashing with BLM protesters. Pantony was part of the group Nathan Rasiah, prosecuting, said: 'In short the defendant was part of a crowd that seemed to be shouting and acting aggressively towards police. 'He was seen to throw bottle in the direction police officers and kicked a barrier that was in place to control the demonstration and to throw a container of drink out of the crowd of people. 'His image was circulated and he presented himself at a police station. 'He said that he was very drunk at the time.' A police video of the 'protect our statues' protestors confronting officers was played to the court, with Pantony's image circled and highlighted. Judge David Tomlinson said: 'This was a very bad case of violent disorder. 'You were hostile to officers as a whole and the task and duty that the police had to undertake that day was one of exceptional difficulty.' The judge expressed concern that only four people have been arrested in relation to the disorder that day, all of whom await trial apart from Pantony. 'He handed himself in, I'm very close to saying that, but for that fact, he would not be here,' said Judge Tomlinson. 'The reality is that none of those people have been identified or charged and there isn't any likelihood that they will be. Pantony, from Rainham, Kent, claimed he had no recollection of the day because he was so drunk but admitted violent disorder at Southwark Crown Court A rowdy group of far-right protesters were seen yelling and shouting in Trafalgar Square during a BLM counter-protest in London on June 13 'There were a lot of troublemakers milling around after that incident in Minneapolis. I will say nothing about that. 'In the aftermath there was a lot of violent disorder in North America and here and it may well be that some people went to Parliament Square on the 13th of June because they had a serious concern that the monuments were not going to be protected by the police. 'Sadly then some people's behaviour was disgraceful, what we have just witnessed was violent behaviour. 'To qualify violent disorder you need a number of other participants, minimum three, to qualify as a riot you need a lot more. 'I said at the outset that one of the reasons why I had decided not to sentence was in expectation that other offenders would have identified and that appears not to have happened.' Judge Tomlinson said he would have to offer a discount to Pantony's sentence because 'other people will think ''Oh well I'll just let the old bill come and get me''. Dennie Rochelle, defending, said Pantony's alcohol issues had never been addressed by the courts before. 'It seems that drink has taken over every element of his life,' she said. She said Pantony had tried to take his own life while grieving his late father. Activists of Left-affiliated organisations and citizens burnt the effigy of Chief Minister at Jantar Mantar on Monday over the injustice towards to the family of the Dalit woman who died after allegedly being gang-raped in Hathras. They also demanded Adityanath's resignation over "mishandling" of the case. Protesters wearing masks gathered at Jantar Mantar holding placards that read "End rape culture," "Dalit lives matter", "Justice for Manisha," "Educate Organise Agitate" among others. The protesters from organisations like All India Students' Association, All India Progressive Woman's Association among others shouted slogans slamming the UP Police and demanding justice for the 19-year-old victim. Sucheta De from the Left-affiliated All India Students' Association said, "We will be holding the protests everyday till the government is there. He has to resign. The state machinery is being used to intimidate the family of the victim." A protester who did not want to be named said, "What's happened (in Hathras) is horrifying. It brings back memories of 2012. It took eight years for the family of Nirbhaya to get justice. What's happened in Unnao or in Hathras, it's injustice with the family. "That young girl was brutally gang-raped and it was extremely inhumane how the UP police cremated her post midnight? How long will this family have to wait to get justice. Justice delayed is justice denied." A working professional with her teenage son and daughter, who was also among the protesters, said it is sheer anger that has forced her to join the protest amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "When will all this stop? They say women are empowered. If so, is this how they treat women? I have a daughter too. This could happen with anyone. It's been eight years since Nirbhaya and woman are still unsafe in this country. "It took us eights years to given justice to Nirbhaya. Has anything changed at all? We need to take stand for all the women and daughters of this country. This is unacceptable and needs to stop," said a protestor who did not wished to be named. The Dalit woman was allegedly raped at a village in Hathras by four men on September 14. After her condition deteriorated, she was referred to the Delhi's Safdarjung hospital where she succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday. She was cremated in the early hours of Wednesday, with her family alleging the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of the night. Local police officers, however, had said the cremation was carried out "as per the wishes of the family". (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.) A court in Moscow has refused to extend the probation period for Yegor Zhukov, a prominent Russian blogger and activist known for his open criticism of the government. Zhukov's lawyer, Leonid Solovyov, said on October 5 that the Kuntsevo district court had rejected the Federal Penitentiary Service's (FSIN) motion to prolong the probation period. The FSIN directorate in Moscow last week filed the motion saying that Zhukov had failed to show up at a police station to report to a parole officer for one month, which is considered to be a violation of the probation period the blogger was given along with a three-year suspended sentence in December. The charges against the 22-year-old activist were related to four videos he posted on his YouTube channel in October and December 2017 that included clips of demonstrations and commentaries by the blogger on the protest movement and Russian politics. Zhukov was arrested in August last year amid protests in Moscow demanding free and fair municipal elections. Dozens of people have been fined or given jail sentences over the rallies. In his final court appearance on December 4 before his sentencing the next day, Zhukov made a statement harshly criticizing Russia's current political system for creating economic inequality for its citizens. Zhukov's statement resonated across the country. In late August, Zhukov was severely beaten by unknown assailants. He and his supporters say the attack was politically motivated. Based on reporting by TASS and Interfax (TNS) COVID funding is being used to get internet services to all of Schuylkill County, Pa., one of its commissioners said.The semi-annual Legislative Forum hosted by the Manufacturers and Employers Association Friday morning turned into a free-wheeling discussion about the many facets of the pandemic.With the state House of Representatives having canceled its voting session Thursday after a Franklin County representative tested positive for the coronavirus, the only legislator who attended the forum was Sen. David G. Argall, R-29, Rush Twp. But also in attendance were all three Schuylkill County commissioners George Halcovage, Barron Boots Heatherington and Gary Hess.Halcovage said one of the initiatives the commissioners are tackling with some of the countys COVID money is broadband.We are working together with the school districts, setting up some different microwaves, Halcovage said. Were getting out into underserved areas, like some places in the Tri-Valley School District, the Williams Valley, the Blue Mountain School District, or up in the North Schuylkill School District.Halcovage said getting internet service is not only crucial for education when students have to get their education at home, like during the pandemic but it is also crucial for retention of employees.The training the MAEA provides not only for our manufacturers, but for the schools with the YES program, is off the charts, Halcovage said, referring to the Your Employability Skills program, a one-credit program taught in high schools that teaches students soft skills like showing up to work on time and dressing properly.Halcovage also said the Luzerne/Schuylkill Workforce Investment Board does a phenomenal job getting employees into great programs.What we heard today is employee recruitment is so crucial, said the current MAEA chairwoman, Julie Masser Ballay, of Sterman-Masser. When we think about quality of life for our employees and what people look for to try and bring employees into this area, and get them to stay in this area, broadband is just one example that becomes so huge.Christine Jensen, site administrator for Pennsylvania CareerLink in Luzerne County and LSWIB, said there is funding available to retain employees.We had a very successful summer internship program, Jensen said. We were able to reimburse employers for hiring interns and creating a pipeline for your next employee by getting them to stay in Northeast Pennsylvania.In the last nine years, employers were reimbursed more than $1 million for on-the-job training, she said.LegislationArgall said there have been a number of bills put forward in the House regarding COVID-19 liability protection.There was some movement in the House this week, he said. There was a bill that was moving that had the support of some of the states legal community. There was another bill that was moving that had the support of manufacturers and chambers of industry. They tried to merge them together.Carl Marrara, vice president of government affairs for the Pennsylvania Manufacturers Association, said there are seven business organizations calling for safe labor protections.Theres some really good language that includes a safe harbor for businesses that are operating safely to be protected, but there is a really bad piece connected with this called a false claims act which is being sought by trial lawyers in the Philadelphia area, Marrara said.Argall said the courts have been heavily involved in COVID issues, including Thursdays appeals court ruling that allows Gov. Tom Wolfs indoor and outdoor crowd size restrictions can remain in effect for now. Argall has been critical of many of Wolfs actions in response to the pandemic.In the beginning, people were patient, he said. That is over.He predicts the crowd size battle is far from over.Ultimately, I think it is going to go to the United States Supreme Court, he said. SAGUACHE, Colo. Human remains were discovered by hikers near an abandoned mine in a remote location west of Pueblo, authorities said. Colorado Bureau of Investigation spokesperson Susan Medina said in a news release Saturday that agents from its Grand Junction regional office have been requested by the Saguache County Sheriffs Office to investigate. The remains were discovered Friday in a remote location in the western part of the county, Medina said. Based on the condition of the remains, authorities said it appears the body was there for quite some time. Medina says there is no evidence at this time that connects this case with the Suzanne Morphew investigation. A neighbor reported Morphew, from the Maysville area, missing after she failed to return from a bike ride on May 10. An autopsy on the remains has been scheduled with the Saguache County Coroner, Medina said. Muhammad Khan didnt want to just talk, he wanted to take action after the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police. So the Fort Bend ISD graduate and a former classmate created a group, Fort Bend County Policing Reform, in an effort to bring changes to law enforcement in the fast-growing, diverse county. This is a guy from our own city, Khan, 20, said of Floyd, a longtime Houston resident. So, what better way to represent him than doing the work that he wouldve wanted us to do? Floyds death also got Sameeha Rizvi and Chinelo Dike thinking about change. The 2019 graduates of Austin High School watched as students across the country began to speak out about racism in schools, spurring the pair to focus on racial inequities in their former district. They formed a group called FBISD Equity Coalition, put together a list of recommendations and held meetings with some school board trustees and Fort Bend ISD Superintendent Charles Dupre. The efforts illustrate how Floyds death and the protests it spawned are motivating younger people to advocate for reforms in Fort Bend, an increasingly diverse county of 831,000 residents. Its not about us. Its about other people, said Rizvi, 19. Do we want a generation of children to grow up again with this lack of sensitivity toward other ethnic groups and racial groups, toward other individuals that are different from them? Police reform Floyd, 46, an African American, died during an arrest in May when a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. The killing, captured on video by a bystander, led to mass protests against systemic racism in law enforcement. Students and alumni also began to speak out about racism in public schools and colleges. In Fort Bend, Khan, a graduate of Dulles High School, created a Facebook group to begin a discussion about law enforcement in his county. Within two weeks, the group had 600 members. Rahul Nagvekar , a classmate of Khans who also helped launch the group, grew up in Fort Bend but didnt start brainstorming about what kind of law enforcement reforms could take place locally until after Floyds death. Maybe, I kind of had the naivete or the ignorance to not really think about what were the issues that were happening here, said Nagvekar, 22. I wanted to first learn more about what were the problems and then try to see how I could contribute to solving them. To their surprise, the group started to hear from police officers in the community interested in participating. Why would someone work toward exposing the corruption within the system that they work for? Khan said. Democrat Eric Fagan, a retired Houston police officer running for sheriff, wanted to help the group. Nabil Shike, who is campaigning to be Fort Bend County Precinct 4 constable, also signed up. Since the group started, participants have come up with more than 120 reform ideas. They include better training for officers to deal with people who have a mental illness and to de-escalate tense situations. They hold weekly Zoom calls on Saturdays to talk over issues. The groups top priority is equipping all law enforcement officers in the county with body cameras, which they believe will improve transparency. The fatal shooting in May of Deputy Constable Caleb Rule by a deputy sheriff while both were responding to a call put more focus on the lack of body cameras in the county. Rule apparently was wearing a body camera, but the Fort Bend County deputy sheriffs who responded, including one who was subsequently fired and charged in the death, were not. Rule was white and the fired deputy is black. The group is urging the Commissioners Court to help fund body cameras for the county. Fort Bend County Precinct 4 Constable Trever Nehls, who is seeking to succeed his brother as county sheriff, said he would work to secure funding for body cameras if elected. Nehls, whose officers have body cameras already, said he has been in contact with the group and is aware of some of their reform ideas. It will be one of the top priorities to work with the Commissioners Court and others, public and private, to secure funding for body-worn cameras for sheriffs deputies that are in a patrol capacity, Nehls said. County Judge KP George agreed. Fort Bend County fully supports the use (of) body cameras as an important tool to protect law enforcement officers and the public, George said in a statement. Painful memories of school days Dike, the Austin High graduate, still remembers when a classmate called her the N-word during her junior year. Hey, whats up (N-word)? she recalled the classmate saying to her as she sat in a fine arts practice room. Dike was shocked and rebuked the student. I felt in that moment that I really couldnt report it because it wouldnt be taken seriously, because it wasnt an actual threat, said Dike, 18, who is Nigerian. Dike is not alone. More than 100 student, parent and alumni responses have been submitted to FBISD Equity through a Google form about discrimination and other issues within the school district. For example, a student at Austin High School said a teacher has constantly questioned them about wearing a hijab. She asked multiple times if I was ever hot or if I wanted to take it off, as well as why I wore it, the student wrote. Although I was fine answering these questions the first few times she asked, it became clear to me by the 6th time she asked that she was not looking for answer, but, instead, an opportunity to question my modesty. A student at Ridge Point High School recalled instances of Asian students being mocked. The student wrote they include comments such as, Do you feel bad for bringing (the coronavirus) to the states? and, Dont get too close! Youll give me the virus! The FBISD Equity Group wants a better definition of racism, discrimination and hate speech-related terms in both the student code of conduct and the student/parent handbook. This will provide more protections for students, staff and faculty. The group also wants faculty, staff and district leaders to undergo cultural competency and anti-racism training. It believes the school district should re-evaluate the roles of individuals in leadership who continue to use discriminatory language or actions, especially after warning or paid leave. The group supports the incorporation of African American history into the general history curriculum, not just as an elective for high school students. In a written statement, Fort Bend ISD said it has a commitment to honor our students and our community so that all feel included and have equitable learning experiences. School board trustees adopted a resolution in July backing a board committee, a district audit and an oversight committee all focused on equity. The district said student and alumni leaders of advocacy groups are expected to be included in the process of identifying areas of improvement and potential policy revisions. Hopeful for change The students pushing for change in Fort Bend are all now college students. Dike attends the University of Houston. Both Rizvi and Khan are students at the University of Texas at Austin. Nagvekar is now working on his Ph.D. at Stanford University. At first, Khan said, he doubted he could make a difference as a young person advocating for change in his home county. Then Khan thought about another movement started by young people those who pushed for gun reform after a 2018 mass shooting in Parkland, Fla., that left 17 dead. Instead of putting ourselves down, we use it as encouragement, Khan said. brooke.lewis@chron.com Vorayuth Yoovidhya allegedly smashed his Ferrari into a police motorbike The officer was flung from the bike and pronounced dead at the scene in 2012 Red Bull heir was later arrested at home where medical tests were conducted He avoided further legal action by consistently failing to meet with prosecutors Interpol have issued a 'red notice' to arrest the Thai heir to the Red Bull fortune involved in a 2012 hit and run that killed a police officer, police said today. Vorayuth Yoovidhya, 38, smashed his Ferrari into the back of a police officer's motorbike around dawn on a major Bangkok road in September 2012. ADVERTISEMENT The officer was flung from the bike and died at the scene. Police say the Red Bull heir drove home and was later arrested. Medical tests showed traces of alcohol and cocaine in his bloodstream, according to police. But Vorayuth avoided further legal action by consistently failing to meet with prosecutors, while continuing to live a jet-set life. Thai police spokesman Kissana Phathanacharoen today said Interpol issued the 'red notice' last Wednesday. In this April 5, 2017, file photo, Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya, whose grandfather co-founded energy drink company Red Bull, walks to get in a car as he leaves a house in London Click here to resize this module He said Thai police are requesting information about the whereabouts of the heir better known by the nickname 'Boss'. A red notice is a request to police forces around the world 'to locate and provisionally arrest an individual, pending extradition'. Some are made public but others are not in some circumstances. Interpol routinely declines to comment on individual cases on privacy grounds. Vorayuth avoided further legal action by consistently failing to meet with prosecutors, while continuing to live a jet-set life It comes after a panel appointed to review the case found Thai authorities conspired to protect Yoovidhya last month. Vicha Mahakhun, a former Supreme Court judge who chaired the Factual and Legal Inquiry Committee, said at a news conference Tuesday that the conspiracy involved government officials, lawyers and a prosecutor. A summary of their report went further, saying the deputy attorney general had acted illegally with the intention of protecting Yoovidhya. Prosecutors finally issued an arrest warrant for him in April 2017, but by then he had fled abroad, where he remains. The warrant was withdrawn this year after the last charge was dropped, but police issued a new one after the public furor caused them to reopen the case. The summary report also said the attorney general and the police commissioner could not deny responsibility as the heads of their organisations, and that the performance of the assistant police commissioner had been inadequate. ADVERTISEMENT 'We found that there was an organised effort to create a dishonest case,' said Vicha, who also has served with the National Anti-Corruption Commission. This frame grab from video footage taken on September 3, 2012 and received from Thai PBS via AFPTV on September 1, 2020 shows police inspecting the Ferrari car belonging to Red Bull heir 'Boss' Yoovidhya in Bangkok, after a hit-and-run case which resulted in the death of a police officer 'You can describe the coordinated effort as a conspiracy to damage the case from the start. We have a saying: "A toxic tree yields a toxic fruit." It is inedible.' Vicha said the effort included false evidence, delays and insincere attempts to determine Boss' whereabouts, adding that disciplinary and criminal actions should follow. The panel was one of several hurriedly set up after news leaked out that the last outstanding charge against Vorayuth had quietly been dropped in June by the deputy attorney general, Nate Naksuk. It ignited a storm of public outrage. Nate has since resigned. Jaruwat Vaisaya (left), Assistant Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police and vice chairperson of the police investigation committee of Vorayuth Yoovidhya, talks to media next to the deputy spokesman Kritsana Pattanacharoen (right) during a press conference about the progress of the case, at the Royal Thai Police headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand on September 2 The panel also recommended that the charges against Vorayuth be reinstated. In practical terms, that means just one charge - causing death by negligence - as all others have expired under the statute of limitations. However, police recently said they will add a drug charge that was not initially lodged against Vorayuth. As a result of the case, the panel has engaged in detailed deliberations about reforming the Thai justice system. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said on September 1that this step was crucial. 'We cannot live without law,' he said. Yoravurth (pictured second from right) has failed to answer numerous court summons and his current whereabouts are unknown 'There will be anarchy, not democracy, in our country. We can't live that way. This will damage the country. 'We will lose the confidence of foreign nations. The economy won't be stable. We'll lose investment. What do we gain from that?' ADVERTISEMENT The case has been taken up by anti-government protesters seeking to force the Prayuth administration from office as a prime example of the corruption bedeviling Thai society. The Yoovidhya family owns about half of the Red Bull empire, and is listed by Forbes magazine as the second richest in Thailand with an estimated wealth of $20.2 billion. Oil exploration in the Norwegian continental shelf has slumped by close to a third amid the oil price rout, according to oil and gas research firm Westwood. The news is not a surprise at a time when all oil and gas companies--even the supermajors--are cutting spending and delaying or canceling new exploration projects. For Norway, exploration is particularly important because most of its production comes from mature fields with only a few new discoveries ensuring the sustainability of the oil and gas industry. On top of these trends, some oil workers are unhappy with their employers again: After weeks of annual pay negotiations between oil workers unions and the Norwegian Oil and Gas Association, most of the unions have accepted what oil employers were offering, but one of the smaller unions, Lederne, has refused the new pay terms. Last week, 43 members of the Lederne union went on strike at the Johan Sverdrup fieldone of the new discoveriesand the union warned the industrial action could escalate this week. Such an escalation was last week expected to shut down four fields operated by Equinor and remove up to 8 percent of Norways oil output, or 330,000 bpd. The latest reports on the strike confirm the shutdown of the four Equinor fields. Two more, operated by Neptune Energy and Wintershall Dea, may follow, according to the Norwegian Oil and Gas Association, which said that There is no solution in sight for the compensation dispute. Production at Johan Sverdrup, which is Norways largest producing field, has not been affected. Norway has been pumping an average of 1.8 million bpd of crude oil, but this changed earlier this year when OPEC+ called on other producers to throw their weight behind its output-cut effort. Norway said it would cut its production by 250,000 bpd in June alone and then maintain a 134,000-bpd cut until the end of the year. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: President Donald Trump waves to supporters as he briefly rides by in the presidential motorcade in front of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he is being treated for COVID-19, in Bethesda, Md., on Oct. 4, 2020. (Cheriss May/Reuters) Decision Expected Later Monday on Trump Discharge From Walter Reed: Meadows Update: President Donald Trump is leaving Walter Reed at 6:30 p.m. on Monday. Original story below. Doctors will decide later Monday on whether to discharge President Donald Trump from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, chief of staff Mark Meadows said on Monday morning. That determination has not been made yet. Obviously, he continued to improve overnight and his health continues to improve, Meadows said on Fox & Friends from the center in Montgomery County, Maryland, just outside Washington. The doctors will actually have an evaluation sometime late morning and then the president, in consultation with the doctors, will make a decision on whether to discharge him later today. Were still optimistic that based on his unbelievable progress and how strong hes been in terms of his fight against this COVID-19 disease that he will be released, but that decision will not be made until later today. Trump earlier Monday wrote over a dozen times on Twitter urging people to vote as he highlighted what he sees as major accomplishments of his administration. Virginia Voters! Your Governor wants to obliterate your Second Amendment. I have stopped him. I am the only thing between you and your Second Amendment. Working hard in Virginia. Its IN PLAY. Better Vote for your favorite President, or wave goodbye to low taxes and gun rights! the Republican wrote. Trump then sent 15 more tweets, such as SAVE OUR SECOND AMENDMENT. VOTE! and PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH (BRING OUR SOLDIERS HOME). VOTE! The president said voting for him would also protect babies lives, bring about another tax cut, and support religious liberty. Trump tested positive for COVID-19 last week and was moved to Walter Reed on Friday. A doctor said Sunday that a discharge is possible as soon as Monday. Today, he feels well, hes been up and around. Our plan for today is to have him to eat and drink, be up out of bed as much as possible, to be mobile, Dr. Brian Garibaldi, who is helping care for Trump, told reporters at a press conference outside Walter Reed. If he continues to look and feel as well as he does today, our hope is that we can plan for a discharge as early as tomorrow to the White House where he can continue his treatment course. President Donald Trump participates in a phone call with Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley in his conference room at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., on Oct. 4, 2020. (Tia Dufour/The White House/Handout via Reuters) Supporters of President Donald Trump gather outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., Oct. 4, 2020. (Samuel Corum/Getty Images) Dr. Sean Conley, the White House physician, echoed the view. The fact of the matter is, is that hes doing really well. He is responding, Conley said. As the team said, if everything continues to go well, were going to start discharge planning back to the White House. Dr. Janette Nesheiwat, a family and emergency medicine doctor, said on Fox & Friends on Monday that she would prefer to see Trump remain in the hospital but noted the president is no longer receiving supplemental oxygen and seems to be reacting well to the antiviral remdesivir treatment course he is on. It might be okay for him to be discharged to the White House, but with continued post monitoring, meaning I want his oxygen level to be monitored, his heart rate, his blood pressure, his temperaturemake sure hes doing well, Nesheiwat, a Fox News contributor, added. Trump said in a video released via Twitter Sunday night: I learned a lot about COVID. I learned it by really going to school. This is the real school. This isnt the lets read the book school. And I get it. And I understand it. And its a very interesting thing. And Im going to be letting you know about it. But former White House chief of staff Mick Mulvaney said on CNBCs Squawk Box on Monday that the experience is not likely to change him. Youre never going to keep this president locked in his basement. That was never going to happen, Mulvaney said. Yes, you could have put him a bubble inside the West Wing, yes you could have restricted him to where no one would actually come into contact with him, but thats not this president. The integration of Rafale fighter jets gives the country an edge and the capability to strike first and deep, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Monday three days ahead of the Air Force Day parade on October 8. Integration of Rafales brings in a platform which is way ahead and would give us an edge and capability to strike first and deep, Bhadauria, the Indian Air Force (IAF) chief, was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. Bhadauria added that India has operationalised fighter jets Rafale, helicopters Chinooks and Apache and integrated them as per IAFs concept of operations in record time. In the next 3 years, well see Rafale and LCA Mark 1 squadrons operating with full strength, along with additional MiG-29 being ordered in addition to current fleets, he said. He also shared the vision to continue to scale up IAFs combat capability and credibility as a force to reckon through modernisation and operational training, and substantially increase indigenous equipment to achieve self-reliance and strategic autonomy. During the IAF day flypast, all eyes will be on the Rafale jets that are set to take part for the first time. A total of 56 aircraft, including 19 choppers and seven transport aircraft, will fly during the parade. Rafale is a 4.5 generation, twin-engine omnirole, air supremacy, interdiction, aerial reconnaissance, ground support, in-depth strike, anti-ship and nuclear deterrence fighter aircraft, equipped with a wide range of weapons, IAF had tweeted on Saturday. The newly-inducted Rafale fighter jets have been made operational in the Ladakh theatre where the military is on its highest state of alert amid the border standoff with neighbouring China. The IAF currently has a fleet of five Rafale fighters. India ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in a deal worth Rs 59,000 crore in September 2016. Jaguar, Sukhoi-30, Mig 29, Tejas, Mirage 2000, Mig 21 Bison will be part of the parade in addition to Mi 35 gunships, Apache attack choppers, C 17 heavy lifters, C130 J Special Ops planes. The Chinook multi-mission choppers will also make an appearance during the flypast. Huang Xiaowei, Secretary of the Leading Party Members' Group and Vice-President and First Member of the Secretariat of the All-China Women's Federation, makes an inspection tour in North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on September 25-26. [For Women of China] Huang Xiaowei, Secretary of the Leading Party Members' Group and Vice-President and First Member of the Secretariat of the All-China Women's Federation (ACWF), went on an inspection tour in North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on September 25-26, in a bid to implement the spirit of the important speeches delivered by General Secretary Xi Jinping, increase a sense of identity of the Chinese nation, and do the community and family work well. During the inspection tour, Huang learned about how impoverished women escaped poverty and lived happy life through making traditional Mongolian costumes after they participated in training sessions organized by the local women's federation. Huang visited Sanshundian Community in Hohhot, capital city of the autonomous region, and spoke with local women, social workers and women volunteers. Noting that community- and family-based work is foundation of the work of the women's federations, Huang called for efforts in channeling targeted services down to community level, giving full play to the advantages of contacting women, meeting the urgent needs of different groups of women, children and families, and contributing to the innovative development of social governance at the primary level. Huang Xiaowei, Secretary of the Leading Party Members' Group and Vice-President and First Member of the Secretariat of the All-China Women's Federation, attends a meeting during her inspection tour in North China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on September 25-26. [For Women of China] Huang visited the Hohhot Maternity and Child Health Hospital to learn about newborn disease screening. She also went to the People's Procuratorate of Xincheng District to discuss the handling of cases of minors with the prosecutors. Huang attended a meeting on September 25 with representatives of women delegates to the 12th Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region's Women's Congress. Huang promoted the spirit of the meeting held on September 8 to commend role models in the country's fight against the COVID-19 epidemic to the attendees, and exchanged ideas with them. (Source: China Women's News/Translated and edited by Women of China) All students around the world sit their final exams on the same date papers are double-marked externally and results sent back to the school before students receive a final score out of 45. This includes a mark out of seven for each of the six core subjects, added together for a possible 42 marks. The final three marks come from the additional components. In theory, every student could receive the highest mark of 45. The IB is marked against pre-determined criteria and every subject carries the same worth; there are no high or low scaling subjects. It's a departure from the HSC, where students' final marks are placed on a bell-curve and they are ultimately ranked against their peers. How does the final mark compare to the ATAR? The final IB score is still converted into an ATAR for the purpose of university admissions. This is where the diploma has courted controversy. While ATAR algorithms are calculated fresh each year and subject to scaling, IB conversion scores are available in advance. The Universities Admissions Centre has given each IB score an ATAR equivalent: 45 becomes 99.95, 44 becomes 99.75, and so on. Any score above 33 translates to an ATAR above 90, while the bottom IB score of 24 becomes a rank of 68.45. Critics say the system over-inflates IB scores and is unfair, because IB students can be awarded an unlimited number of high ATARs. According to UAC, about 2 per cent of IB students receive a perfect ATAR of 99.95, compared with just 0.1 per cent of HSC students. There are also 2000 different ranks available to differentiate students using the ATAR, compared to just 22 with the IB. Christyon Hayek, Isabel Binnekamp and Lindsay McNeil all received ATARs in the high 99s after studying the IB in 2019. Credit:Steven Siewert "The IB cohort is very small and select," a UAC spokesperson said. "The results we receive from the IB are very coarse which makes differentiating between students, which is what a rank is trying to do, very difficult." Changes to be introduced from 2022 attempt to remedy this by making the conversions more granular: students identified as having a high 45 will still receive 99.95, but weaker 45s will yield 99.90. From 42 down there will be three sub-divisions for each IB score. The new system will likely see 25 per cent of students increase their rank and 15 per cent receive a lower rank. Why do schools offer the IB? Antony Mayrhofer, who has worked with the IB for 30 years and co-ordinates its delivery at St Paul's Grammar School in western Sydney, believes the diploma's strong focus on critical and creative thinking, as well as conceptual understanding, are of greater value to students than content recall. "A lot of schools introduce [the IB] because of the pedagogy; it strongly develops critical thinking skills," he said. "Others are drawn to the philosophy, which is very idealistic. And sometimes it comes from experience principals move to a different school and want to introduce it." Loading Linda Emms, head of learning and teaching at MLC Sydney, said the IB was popular among students who wished to pursue overseas studies in the future, because it is recognised globally by universities. It also helps the school cater to international students who may have studied the IB overseas. But schools face operational challenges in running the IB, such as advanced timetabling required to run two programs at once as well as teacher training. Schools must be authorised by the global International Baccalaureate Organisation to offer the diploma. "Ensuring all of our staff are up to date on changes to the curriculum and training staff new to the IB program is a continuous cycle," Ms Emms said. Still, many private schools have chosen not to offer the IB. Jenny Allum, principal of SCEGGS Darlinghurst, said she thought the HSC was more comprehensive and courses were as high quality as the IB. PLC Sydney principal Paul Burgis said other international programs, such as Cambridge courses, allowed greater flexibility and could be tailored to student needs. "The IB expects schools to use its professional development program, and it is a unified, single system," he said. Which is the right fit for my student? Mr Mayrhofer said 96 per cent of Australian IB students go on to university, and that the diploma's emphasis on university preparation means it is not suitable for all students. He also thinks it comes down to whether students want a broad educational approach in their senior school studies, or if they would prefer to hone in on a topic or vocational area. "The IB Diploma is deliberately broad-based, whereas the HSC is much more flexible it can be broad or it can be narrow to suit a student who really wants to specialise," he says. Loading "The HSC also offers the chance to refine subject selection through adding extension subjects and being able to drop a subject you dont enjoy as much." Some students are attracted to IB subjects such as psychology and global politics, which are not available in the HSC. But deterrents include the requirement to study a foreign language. Others are driven by scaling. Students who are strong in the arts might prefer the IB because it treats those subjects the same as maths and science: a grade 7 in theatre or music is worth the same as a 7 in physics. The HSC, on the other hand, has historically tended to elevate students who perform well in extension mathematics, physics, chemistry and economics. The IB workload can also be a source of stress for students. Teachers say it requires a different pattern of study to the HSC; students need to be prepared to commit to being organised over a two-year campaign. Then there's the fail factor: whereas all students are awarded the HSC regardless of their marks, a student can fail to receive an IB diploma. Last year's pass rate was about 92 per cent. Students must score a minimum 24 points to receive the formal qualification and an ATAR equivalent. But they must also score at least grade 4 in each of their higher level subjects. They cannot score a single grade 1, nor the bottom mark in either the essay or theory of knowledge subject. If they fail to meet those requirements, students can sit the IB exams up to three times and still receive a record of their results. Will the IB become more widespread? The IB diploma was offered by 15 NSW private schools in 2015; now it's about 20. "We see new schools joining each year, or most years. The proportion of students taking it is growing as well," Mayrhofer says. St Paul's and MLC, which have offered the IB for decades, now have about half their cohort take the diploma. Loading But most IB schools are in affluent areas just two are west of Strathfield and two are south of Maroubra and it is still not available in NSW public schools. Part of that problem is the price tag, which was costed by the NSW Department of Education at about $300,000 per school each year. Mr Mayrhofer acknowledges there is a "feeling of exclusivity" around the course in NSW, although other Australian states are increasingly offering the IB in public schools. Queensland introduced the diploma to three selective and six comprehensive public schools in 2010. An internal NSW Department of Education paper from 2017 recommended offering the IB in government schools to give students equity of access with private schools. The Covid-19 crisis has caused job losses and many people are having to leave work that is their sole source of income. It has been estimated that around 147 million worldwide have been left unemployed due to the pandemic. A latest addition in the list of names of people who have lost their livelihood due to the coronavirus crisis is flight attendant Breaunna Ross, who was working with the American Airlines. Breaunnas video shot in the flight from Floridas Jacksonville to Dallas is going viral on Twitter. he video shared by Sam Sweeney from ABC News has received more than 38,000 likes on Twitter and over 12,000 retweets. The video posted on October 2 already has over two million views. Flight attendants across the country this week give tearful goodbyes on their final flights as more than 40,000 airline employees are furloughed today. pic.twitter.com/WQk7YwwpVA Sam Sweeney (@SweeneyABC) October 1, 2020 In the video, Breaunna can be seen sitting wearing a face mask and making her last announcement. While speaking, it is clear that Breaunna is getting teary and emotional. In the video, she explains how this was the last flight for her and another colleague. She shares the fact with her passengers that the airline business has been impacted due to the pandemic and thus lesser flights are operating. She can be heard saying that she loved her job with American Airlines and it gave her many opportunities. She thanked her employer, American Airlines for giving her the opportunity to see this world. Towards the end of the video, one can hear a round of applause from her listeners. Her passengers thanked Breaunna at the end of the flight. One person even made a contribution in her name to Make A Wish foundation, Breaunna told CNN. Reacting to her emotional speech, Twitter users are expressing their support and empathising with Breaunnas situation. Supporting the 26-year-old flight attendant, a user pointed out that the CEO of the American Airlines Doug Parker made USD 11 million last year while people like Breaunna have to worry about the next months rent. While people like this flight attendant worry about how they'll pay rent next month, American Airlines paid its CEO $11 million last year, all in stock, making it effectively tax free. If he cashes it in he'll only pay capital gains rates, instead of the higher rate workers pay pic.twitter.com/0xyjDoKFuf Carl Gibson (@crgibs) October 2, 2020 Lastly, she requested all the passengers to be kind and compassionate with each other. She added that people should take care of themselves and their health. Residents of Webb County who have not registered to vote ahead of the November election have only today left to do so. As of Friday, 137,105 people are registered in Webb County, according to the elections office. This marks an increase of over 2,000 new registrants since the March primary and over 6,000 since the November 2018 election. Webb County Republican Party Chair Bill Young wagers the party has registered over 1,000 people this year at their office and through various registration drives. Voter turnout in Laredo is consistently below most other cities in the state, which makes it harder for representatives in Austin and Washington, D.C. to want to pay attention to us, Young said. I want everybody in Laredo to vote everybody thats legal. It would help the city a whole lot if they did, he said. Young said he expects Webb to turn red this year, and noted the party headquarters looked like a 7-Eleven on Thursday with people coming to pick up signs. Although they have not conducted any polling, he notes. Ive just seen so much enthusiasm this year, more than ever, Young said. This would be a nearly impossible feat. Webb County has been a Democratic stronghold for decades, and every one of its partisan officeholders are currently Democrats. In the 2016 election Donald Trump won 22% of the vote in Webb County and Hilary Clinton won 73%. Sylvia Bruni, Webb County Democratic Party chair, said theyve been registering people to vote non-stop for the past several weeks. Shes been struck by the number of older Webb County residents who have never voted before and have decided to have their voice heard this year. Theyre the 53% who stayed home in years past. This time around theyre absolutely determined to cast a vote in this election, Bruni said. The Webb County Elections Office is holding extended office hours Monday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., to facilitate any last-minute registrants. The office is located on the first floor of the Billy Hall Administration Building, 1110 Washington St. To register to vote in Webb County you must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years old on or before election day and a resident of the county. Julia Wallace may be reached at 956-728-2543 or jwallace@lmtonline.com The Guatemalan government sent back almost 3,500 Hondurans migrants who were part of a caravan that was traveling to the United States to seek asylum. The decision to turn away the migrants and bus them back to Honduras came as officials in Guatemala feared they would spark a COVID-19 outbreak. In a televised message Sunday, President Alejandro Giammattei said Guatemalan security forces were able to 'contain' the caravan. 'We are experiencing a pandemic in Guatemala which has cost us to control with months of efforts,' said the president, adding it was an 'obligation' to reduce the risk of further contagion. According to the Guatemalan Migration Institute, the caravan entered eastern Guatemala on Thursday, pushing over a military cordon on the Corinto border before splitting into groups to reach Mexico, which has closed its borders. The Mexican government deployed the National Guard to the southern border town of Tapachula as a preventive measure. Honduran migrants, who had joined a caravan of about 3,500 people, board a truck Saturday before they were sent back to Honduras by the Guatemalan government following a failed attempt to cross into Mexico and reach the United States border to seek asylum Honduran migrants trying to reach the United States look at a Central America and Mexico map outside a migrant shelter Sunday in Tecun Uman, Guatemala. Under a order from Guatemalan president Alejandro Giammattei, close to 3,500 migrants were sent back to Honduras in buses on Saturday and Sunday amidst concerns of a possible COVID-19 outbreak A group of migrants from Honduras cross a bridge in Guatemala. Immigration officials in Guatemala said at least 3,500 migrants entered Guatemalan territory last week in hopes of crossing into Mexico and making their way toward the United States border to apply for asylum In recent years, thousands of Central American migrants traveling in large groups have crossed into Mexico, with the aim of reaching the United States border. The migrants have become a hot-button issue for political conservatives in the United States, including President Donald Trump's base. Trump, who is seeking a second term in the November 3 election, threatened Mexico with steep tariffs in June 2019 if it did not do more to stop a surge of undocumented migrants. According to the Guatemalan Migration Institute (IGM), the caravan entered eastern Guatemala on Thursday after traveling overnight from San Pedro Sula, Honduras Honduran migrants walk along a road in El Cinchado, Guatemala, on Friday. Their attempt to reach the United States was thwarted by Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei, who ordered the military and cops to block their path towards the border with Mexico amidst concerns that the migrants could spark a COVID-19 outbreak By Friday and Saturday, hundreds of Guatemalan police and military personnel set up roadblocks forcing migrants - including young children and people in wheelchairs - to turn back. Fifteen people from the caravan requested refuge in Guatemala, according to the IGM. 'We respect the right to migration as long as it is regulated and the requirements and protocols that have been established are complied with, and not as happened with this group of migrants who broke into our country with violence,' Giammattei said. Covid-19 has infected 93,963 people and killed 3,293 since March in Guatemala, a country of about 17 million inhabitants. The country began reopening in July after four months of restrictions to curb the pandemic. Honduran migrants, part of a United States-bound migrant caravan, pictured Saturday outside a migrant shelter in San Marcos, Guatemala CAMRIS combines research and technical assistance expertise of more than 250 employees with modern, evidence-based practices to develop innovative solutions to complex problems. With experience spanning all regions of the world, its primary focus is on military medical research and global health, benefitting partners and populations everywhere the team works. "As a trusted partner in military medicine, HJF continuously looks to improve our ability to deliver the best service possible to those conducting medical research benefitting our nation's warfighters and civilians alike," said HJF President and CEO, Dr. Joseph Caravalho. "This acquisition bolsters HJF's broader capabilities due to the CAMRIS team's success in delivering requirements-driven results on contracts worldwide." "CAMRIS has more than 60 years of experience providing agile and adaptable solutions to research partners around the globe," explained CAMRIS President and CEO, Dr. Laurence M. Day. "CAMRIS is excited to join HJF, a leader in advancing medical research worldwide. We have previously worked in partnership with HJF, and by deepening the strong alignment of the HJF and CAMRIS missions, this acquisition will produce many benefits for each organization, as well as our collective customers and partners." HJF retained the services of FedCap Advisory, LLC in connection with this transaction. HJF also retained Venable LLP as legal counsel and RSM International for auditing and accounting services. CAMRIS will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of HJF. The new CAMRIS Board of Directors will be comprised of representatives from both CAMRIS and HJF. About HJF The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc. (HJF) is a global nonprofit organization based in Bethesda, Maryland. For more than 35 years, HJF has partnered with military medical researchers and clinicians to advance military medicine. With a team of more than 3,000 professionals, HJF serves as a trusted and responsive partner by providing scientific, administrative and program operations services to investigators, clinicians, and global health professionals in the military, academic, and private sector. For more information, visit hjf.org. About CAMRIS CAMRIS International, LLC develops health research and development solutions through high-quality, cost-effective programs and research management services. With experience working in more than 100 countries, CAMRIS combines proven systems with modern, effective and innovative practices to improve the lives of people around the world. CAMRIS, an HJF company, is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc. For more information, visit www.camris.com. SOURCE Henry M Jackson Foundation For The Advancement Of Military Medicine Related Links www.hjf.org A single man who bought a massive roadside billboard asking for applicants to date him has revealed his new girlfriend after the campaign was a roaring success. Mark Rofe, 30, paid 425 for a 10-foot high and 20-foot wide billboard featuring a picture of himself lounging with the caption: 'Single? Date Mark. This could be the sign you've been waiting for'. And yesterday, Mr Rofe - who recently quit his job to sell Christmas trees online - revealed his new girlfriend, 28, to his supporters by sharing a side-by-side picture of his billboard with a snap of the pair together. Mr Rofe did not reveal the name of his mystery woman, but said she is a 'witty' writer with a 'good sense of humour'. He told MailOnline that he hopes his success 'gives hope to other average looking men out there too'. Mark Rofe, 30, who bought a massive roadside billboard asking for applicants to date him has revealed his new girlfriend (pictured together) after the campaign was a roaring success Mr Rofe, 30, paid 425 for a 10-foot high and 20-foot wide billboard (pictured) featuring a picture of himself lounging with the caption: 'Single? Date Mark. This could be the sign you've been waiting for' Mr Rofe, from Sheffield, said: 'She was one of the first to apply before the billboard and website had got any mainstream media attention, she was good looking and witty and I looked through her social media and could see she had a great sense of humour - I thought she could be someone I'd get on well with, and it turns out I was right!' Prior to dating her, Mr Rofe asked four women to go on dates with him and he ended up seeing three of them 'around the same time' earlier this year. He added: 'The one I didn't meet up with - turned out that a friend had applied on her behalf as a joke, which was slightly awkward and embarrassing for me! Mr Rofe did not reveal the name of his mystery woman (pictured together), but said she is a 'witty' writer with a 'good sense of humour' Yesterday, Mr Rofe - who recently quit his job to sell Christmas trees online - revealed his new girlfriend, 28, to his supporters by sharing a side-by-side picture of his billboard with a snap of the pair together 'When I tell people I only met three from the thousands that applied, I guess they are a little bit surprised, I expected to have to do more dating too but when I found someone I really liked I didn't really see the need to go and date more people.' He started dating his new girlfriend 'back in February' and said it was 'quite casual and relaxed'. He said: 'We went to a food market in the evening, followed by a few drinks, and then played some Mario kart in a bar (I won and she desperately wants a rematch), and we've been dating since, she doesn't hate me yet so I guess things are going well. 'During lockdown I thought it would be funny to send her a personalised jigsaw puzzle of my billboard to keep her entertained. Mr Rofe (pictured) did not reveal the name of his mystery woman, but said she is a 'witty' writer with a 'good sense of humour' 'It's always an interesting story when someone asks the question of 'how did you meet?' - I hope this gives hope to other average looking men out there too' 'When I put the billboard and DatingMark.co.uk website up I was ideally looking for someone who has a good sense of humour (read able to put up with my awful jokes), intelligent, and obviously there has to be a physical attraction, and I feel I lucked out because not only did I end up meeting someone like that, they happened to like me back too.' Mr Rofe - who had been single for over a year - launched the billboard campaign in January after all his friends were getting married as he struggled to get a date. He hoped the billboard would help him stand out from the crowd. He said at the time of his billboard's launch: 'I've been single for a little while now, and many of my friends are married or in long term relationships. The massive sign in Manchester features a photo of him lounging on his side (pictured) and says: 'Single? Date Mark. This could be the sign you've been waiting for' 'I've tried the dating apps, but they just weren't working for me, so I decided to try something a little bit different to try and stand out.' The billboard went up on Fairfield Street in the centre of Manchester on Wednesday, and will be seen by around 462,000 drivers a week. He said he placed it in Manchester because it is one of the largest cities in the UK, near where he lived and has the highest footfall in the region. He had launched a website - datingmark.co.uk (pictured) - where applicants get in touch and has launched a crowdfunding website for more billboards Mr Rofe had hoped to raise enough funds to purchase more in Dublin, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Sheffield, Portsmouth, Bristol, and London. Pictured is his website Mr Rofe, who jokes he has kissed 'over three' women, insisted his campaign is totally legitimate and described himself as 'extremely handsome and modest'. He launched a website - datingmark.co.uk - where applicants get in touch and has launched a crowdfunding website for more billboards. He hopes to raise enough funds to purchase more in Dublin, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Sheffield, Portsmouth, Bristol, and London. He added: 'If at first you don't succeed, buy more billboards?' In the reviews, which have been removed from the Yelp website, Nason was accused of sending shots of sake to customers, slipping them his number and trying to meet up with them later in the evening; readers were directed to codynason.com for more information, according to the petition. By Express News Service BENGALURU: The Central Bureau of Investigation on Monday morning conducted raids at 14 locations linked to the KPCC President DK Shivkumar and his brother DK Suresh and recovered around Rs 50 lakhs cash during searches. According to official sources, the CBI has registered a case against then Minister of Karnataka Government and others on the allegations of acquisition of Disproportionate Assets. The search operation may be expanded during the day, the officials said. The CBI has registered a fresh case against the Congress leader based on a source information from another agency. The information relates to assets amassed during Shivakumar's tenure as a minister in Karnataka, they said. Following the registration of FIR, CBI teams started searches on Monday morning at 14 locations -- nine in Karnataka, four in Delhi and one in Mumbai. "CBI has registered a case against the then minister of the Karnataka government and others on the allegations of acquisition of disproportionate assets. Searches are being conducted today at 14 locations including nine in Karnataka, four in Delhi, one in Mumbai," the CBI said in a statement. According to the KPCC spokesperson Suraj Urs, Shivkumar, Suresh along with party workers and election coordinators were about to about to hold a preparatory meeting for forthcoming Assembly by polls in Karnataka at Shivakumars house in Sadashivanagar in the city, when the CBI raided his residence. The CBI action has been strongly condemned by the State Congress leaders Siddaramaiah and Randeep Singh Surjewala. The latter in his tweet has mentioned CBI, ED and Income Tax as frontal agencies of the BJP government. The CBI raids come close on the forthcoming Assembly bypolls in Sira and RR Nagar on November 3. Meanwhile, youth Congress members protested in front of Shivakumar's residence condemning the raid. There was also a heated argument between the police and party workers. Karnataka Congress in-charge General Secretary, Randeep Singh Surjewala in his tweet said,"insidious game of intimidation and machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding D K Shivakumar wont deter us. CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt. But, Raid Raj is their only Machiavellian Move." "Let Modi and Yeddyurappa Governments and BJPs frontal organizations - CBI-ED-Income Tax know that Congress workers and leaders will not be cowed down nor bow down before such devious attempts. Our resolve to fight for people & expose BJPs maladministration only becomes stronger." He said further. Adding to this, Karnataka Leader of Opposition and former CM Siddaramiah said BJP has always tried to indulge in vindictive politics and mislead public attention. The latest CBI raid on Shivakumar's house is another attempt to derail our preparation for bypolls. "I strongly condemn this.'' he said. Senior Congress leader and former minister Dinesh Gundurao also condemned the incident and dubbed the raids as politically motivated ones on Shivakumar and his family. "With by elections in Sira and RR Nagara announced, the raids reveal the BJPs real intentions. The day theyll pay a heavy price for these vengeful actions is fast approaching," he said. Congress spokesperson A S Ponnanna, who is also a senior advocate in the High Court of Karnataka, claimed that the court had asked the CBI not to precipitate as Shivakumar had questioned the permission given by the Karnataka government to the CBI to probe the alleged corruption charges against him. "I'm surprised politics is down to this level. CBI has to function under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, under which if they have to come to a state and investigate, they have to get permission from the state government, the permission that was given has been questioned by Shivakumar," he said. "The court had said do not precipitate, what I have understood from this is- they (CBI) should have not have acted. They should have got it vacated from the court and acted, after permission from the court," Ponnanna, who served as an additional advocate general during the Congress government, said, adding that the investigation should be fair and lawful. Shivakumar was arrested on September 23 last year by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the money laundering case and was lodged in the Tihar jail under judicial custody. The Congress leader was released from the jail on October 23 after the Delhi High Court granted him bail. (With PTI Inputs) Panaji: Film actor Pooja Bedi on Monday said her e-commerce website registered in Goa had been hacked by some people who threatened to sell drugs on the site if she did not pay them ransom. In a series of tweets, Bedi said she had filed a complaint with Goa polices Cyber Crime Cell last week after an earlier hacking incident but the modus operandi was repeated late Sunday night. Dear @DGP_Goa my ecommerce website happysoul.in HACKED AGAIN last night and this time they state if I dont pay ransom they will sell DRUGS on my website. I have registered FIR in old goa police cyber cell last week but no action from cops. My company regd in Goa @goacm." Superintendent of Police (Crime) Shobhit Saxena said the hacking incident of last week was solved and a fresh probe had begun after Bedi filed a new complaint. Theres no question that this has been the start of an exceptionally difficult new school year. Not only are we in the middle of a global pandemic, but our communities have been dealing with challenging issues including systemic racism and online extremism. Were seeing the way that hateful ideas lead to real-world violence. The Jewish High Holidays are a time of renewal and celebration, but this years festivities were tainted by a number of antisemitic incidents that occurred across Ontario, including private homes sprayed with anti-Jewish graffiti, worshipers spat at and cursed, and a father and son verbally assaulted with the perpetrator attempting to reach into their vehicle. Anti-Indigenous racism was brought to light once again in a horrific incident just last week. Joyce Echaquan, an Atikamekw woman from Manawan, died tragically in a Quebec hospital, but not before recording vile, racially motivated verbal abuse directed at her by hospital staff. These incidents come on the heels of the stabbing death of Mohamed-Aslim Zafis, a 58-year-old volunteer caretaker at an Etobicoke mosque. While monitoring entry into his building, he was stabbed by a man who had links to Neo-Nazi activity online. These incidents and the motives behind them are troubling, but not surprising. Perpetrators of these acts seek to silence their targets and inspire fear. This hate is coming from both extremes of the political spectrum. Whatever the ideological root of the perpetrator, expressions of hatred against any group should be alarming to all Canadians. Holocaust survivor and post-war Nazi hunter Simon Wiesenthal once said, Freedom is not a gift from heaven. You must fight for it every day of your life. In making this statement, he recognized that our rights and freedoms are fragile and it is all of our responsibility to protect them. One of the ways that we can stand up for the freedoms of others is by listening to their experiences History has shown us that times of crisis often lead to an increase in public expressions of anger, fear, and intolerance. But these moments also create opportunities for positive change. One of the first steps we can take towards that change is by providing people who have been silenced by fear and intolerance a platform where they can be heard. This has been a cornerstone belief in the field of Holocaust education for the past 50 years. In the wake of the crimes of the Nazi regime, personal stories shared by survivors were a way of asserting the humanity of Jewish people, a way of bearing witness to the lives lost, and a way of preserving historic truth for future generations. As we move further away from the Holocaust and face a future where students will not be able to speak with survivors directly, we must find innovative ways to keep these stories alive. Education programs need to engage students in difficult conversations about extremism and systemic racism. The individual stories of people impacted by hatred, the negative impact of racism and other forms of prejudice, help students (and all of us) gain an important perspective on freedom and inclusion. Moments of crisis and uncertainty are the times when our freedoms are in most danger of slipping away, but they also create the potential for meaningful change. Educating young people about the importance of diversity and inclusion, and the cost of hate and intolerance, is the first step towards addressing systemic racism and other forms of intolerance head-on. FSWC is here to support teachers and remind students of the power for change that exists within each and every one of them. NEW YORK and LECCO, Italy, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The iconic Soriano brand of motorcycles, founded over 100 years ago by the known aristocrat Ricardo Soriano Scholtz von Hermensdorff, has designed and patented their new duo-flex soriano engine, a platform that is revolutionizing the mobility sector simply put. It facilitates the feeling of all sensations a true traditional motorist looks for in a motorcycle only that is electrically powered. The new Soriano duo-flex engine is composed of two engines perpendicular aligned, which shall offer higher performance and torque weather used in unison or separately. Combined these two engines reach 75 Kw of potency. At the same time, Soriano Motori introduces innovatively five gears to aid the engines further automatically, which in turn reserves energy for a higher autonomy. "Everyone dislikes changes, but one must adapt and embrace tech advances in engineering in these sectors. Our Mission Statement is underlined as so for all trends, patterns to be the disruptors in the market" says adamantly Marco Antonio Soriano, its founder. Our motorcycles reach 220km/h (approximately 140 mph); and a range of 180 km (120 miles) at optimal conditions. The premise to these creations was to present to the world a real EV motorcycle, which embraces the elements of innovation, elegance and execution completely made in Italy. Another easter-egg to these engineering is the sophisticated shock system, which reflects the true DNA of the original 1939 Soriano Tigre model. The three models can be preorder now at www.sorianomotori.com and they will be built in a limited edition capacity for its first 100 units for 2021 laser signed by the Founder himself. Soriano Model Potential Price (In Euros) V1-R 60 Kw 25500 V1-S 72 Kw 30500 V1-Gara 75 Kw 32500 All motorcycles will be built under an exclusive process of production in an Italian artisanal fashion in the Soriano Facilities at the shores of the Lake Como, while allowing its clients to customize their dream bike. Marco Soriano wants his bikes to have the innovative soul, by offering the 3 models with 3 sounds called Ieri, Oggi e Domani. Another feature that will be appreciated by their owners as EVs will have sounds and feeling. All made in fiber carbon. A true modern italian work of art. Enjoy the legacy of excellent design and engineering. SOURCE Soriano Motori Corp. Related Links http://www.sorianomotori.com Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Editorial Board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 08:20 475 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4917af6 1 Editorial financial-inclusion,fintech,financial-technology,OJK,#Editorial Free Fintechs role in public services has undoubtedly been on the rise during the pandemic. From providing digital payment solutions in channeling electricity subsidies and social safety nets for workforces, to becoming an investment platform for government debt securities, fintech firms assist governments and banks with COVID-19 public services. Fintech has emerged as a crucial part of Indonesias economic recovery, as more people turn to digital platforms for financial services. Banks traditionally take the more prudent, risk-averse stance in serving the public, especially as the risk of bad loans is on the rise during the pandemic-induced economic crisis. But fintech is not immune to the bad loan problem. The proportion of bad loans within Indonesian peer-to-peer lenders neared 8 percent in July, up from 4.22 percent in March and 2.62 percent in March of 2019, according to combined regulator and association data. In comparison, gross nonperforming loans at domestic banks stood at 3.22 percent in August. The soaring bad loans call for more prudential measures adopted by fintech firms and stern monitoring by regulators while maintaining essential services that adhere to prudential principles and could contribute to Indonesias economic recovery. Regulators Bank Indonesia which is in charge of fintech payments and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) overseeing other sectors, from lending to investment have pledged support for fintech innovation. Balancing out innovations and growth in the sector while maintaining prudential principles have been the agenda, if not struggle, of the regulators in overseeing the industry. Even with the existence of a regulatory sandbox to facilitate prudent fintech innovations and a lot of regulations surrounding the fintech sector, the rising threat of illegal fintech is clouding the sectors achievements. From 2018 to 2020, the OJK has stopped the operations of 2,591 fintech firms and is now freezing license issuances for peer-to-peer fintech lenders until further notice. The emergence of illegal fintech platforms calls for more broad-based, structural literacy programs to be carried out by regulators and industry players in the countrys fintech scene. The literacy programs need to be carried out across the archipelago for more inclusive and safe fintech operations in Indonesia. The fintech industry has so far helped boost financial inclusion in Indonesia by serving more people previously untouched by formal financial services. Since the rise of fintech, Indonesias financial inclusion rate has dramatically increased to levels unseen in history, reaching 76.1 percent in 2019, according to an OJK survey, from less than 50 percent in 2017. Fixing the countrys digital connectivity bottlenecks could turn more Indonesians to finance through fintech platforms. Indonesias digital competitiveness index ranks 56th this year, below neighbors Singapore (second), Malaysia (26th) and Thailand (39th), according to the Institute for Management Development. The Jakarta Post hosted a three-day Jakpost Fintech Fest webinar series last week to discuss issues surrounding fintech for a more inclusive and safer industry in Indonesia. At least three big action times are high on the agenda for regulators, fintech players and the society: boosting connectivity, literacy programs, as well as stern regulations against recklessness in fintech operations and illegal fintech platforms. Press Release October 5, 2020 Highlights of Sen. Pia Cayetano's Interpellation on the Aerocity Franchise Bill Sen. Pia: I just like to put on record... that I really have not had enough time to study this. And the only reason I would like to contribute is because I'd like to avoid questions on its constitutionality, inconsistencies with different provisions, or confusions. I think it would be better for all of us. I regret that there seems to be a need to pass this immediately and I apologize on behalf of the committee that I cannot perform my task as well as I have to because I do not have enough time to study this. Sen. Pia asked for the DOF's position on the bill. Sen. Poe said she did not have DOF's position Sen. Pia: I think it would be helpful now... I would have wanted to see their official statement on this... For such a big item, which includes tax incentives, I would've thought that we would go after their opinion on this... --- Sen. Pia: When we talk about mass transportation, wouldn't our incentives most likely be the same for various mass transportation projects around the country? Let's just assume Metro Manila and other surrounding areas, they would be the same, to the extent that this is now covered by a franchise and not covered by CREATE, then her honor is recognizing that there may be differences... There may possibly be different sets of incentives being given for exactly the same service? --- Sen. Pia: Noted that for transportation, there may be other agreements that may go in. So maybe I'll ask about a simpler service. You know how, when I look at mall developments, aside from the main mall made by top 3-4 developers, sometimes they have what you call big tenants that create their own building within the mall complex. Would those kinds of constructions be included in the incentives because it's part of the airport city? --- Sen. Pia: Let me paint the picture... I don't think it takes 10 years to build a mall area. I doubt. I don't think there's too many technicalities compared to an airport... I am assuming they really wanna build a whole network here, a whole community. Let's say the mall is operational in 5 years, how would the tax construction then be, you already move them to the after? So they may now have the airport itself and maybe the essential services separated from non-essentials? Kasi that doesn't seem to be very clearly defined either. --- Sen. Pia: I am just really tossing to the committee what I am observing as we go along... I also want to differentiate on whether what is operational or not are essentials or non-essentials. Because like I said, if there is an opportunity to make money, why not? Any businessman would... If there is one part of my business that can be operational, I'd rather start earning money then. So like I said, let's say the shopping center area... where there's people, there's shopping. So on that note, if the shopping complex can be completed earlier, that was one point. And then the other types of income, what taxes now would apply to these non-essential parts of the airport city? --- Sen. Pia: There is nothing there about shopping centers. And we know when there is an airport, there is shopping. And where there's hotels, there's usually shopping also. So I'd rather bring it up now than wait for it later on and for us to be confused as to what would apply. Again, I also want to distinguish between essential and non-essential. For example, and this is an issue with CREATE now... In some ecozones, even the businesses that did not have anything to do with exports or services, but were really there to just support the ecozone - fast foods, gas stations - they applied for incentives and were given. But that is something that CREATE seeks to address, that this does not happen, because those are not the essential businesses that we are promoting... --- Sen. Pia: So that's clear, madame sponsor... that it is not the intention to exempt these lessors or concessionaires, these establishment owners. So what is the difference if it is owned by the San Miguel Group of Companies or not? What if SMC buys the franchise of McDonald's? Would that extend to them or no, because it's not an essential part? How do you draw the line? --- Sen. Pia: I didn't know from the reading of the bill if it is the intention to include them or not... So in other words, it appears to me that what his honor is including in the airport city are services that are essential to an airport's operation? Then again, I would be a little bit uncomfortable because you can't really say a hotel is essential, although nowadays, I have seen hotels in all major airports... So it becomes convenient for an airport to be there... The construction of that hotel will be tax-free also... because they are part of the airport city? Is that her honor's intention? --- Sen. Pia: Would her honor know if DOTR has a master plan for airports? One reason why I support this is because when I travel to London, New York, I know that there are really options for airports. So I am familiar with that and I know we don't have these airports... But my question would be, is her honor prepared for the possibly unequal protection we would effectively be perpetuating because of an establishment of this magnitude... versus a smaller hotel that could just consider their other auxiliary services could maybe just be or ? So in other words, they might say, "If we can't get the same type of incentives, then we won't put up those other services." So would that not be a disincentive for other investors in the future to invest because we have set the standards quite high? I don't mean it in any judgmental way. I am just trying to foresee... My committee is SDGs, Innovation, and Futures Thinking, so I am just thinking fast forward, doesn't it sort of set a precedent...? I don't intend to belittle the contribution of this... but how do we differentiate? And that is why from where I come from as author and sponsor of CREATE, it would have been the job of the FIRB to try to rationalize. Now, we are trying to do that as we speak... We're trying to rationalize that and ensure it doesn't have any detrimental effect in the future. That's the only reason why I wanted to think it through. --- Sen. Pia: The other example I wanted to consider would be like special aircraft maintenance services, similar to Lufthansa... I believe they are located somewhere near NAIA... And I was asking them in connection with CREATE, would they like to put up another one near Clark. Because there would be a demand for their service there because there is also a Clark Airport. And they said, "Yeah sure we could consider that." Because that's more business for them because iba rin ang aircrafts na nandoon. My question would be... wouldn't it end up to be a disincentive, in the expansion of businesses related to airports, if one particular airport has extensive incentives, not in the airport only itself, but all those other related businesses, if first of all, the intention is also to grant...? Would that not backfire on us? I'm talking about related services. --- Sen. Pia: In the case of Lufthansa... they are one of those also asking for consideration in terms of incentives they receive. Basically, they are saying it's tight as it is. And so, I am conscious of the fact that it's a very competitive industry. There may not be that much room for... the margin for profit might not be high. And if there are incentives on location vs. another location, then in the long-term growth of services that would ideally be beneficial to any airport in the area, we would have then effectively made it more difficult for that industry to grow there because they can't compete... --- Sen. Pia: How does her honor foresee CREATE unfolding? Because I can set aside and not pursue CREATE anymore if what will happen is we will have individual incentives given anyway to corporations. Under the CREATE Bill, the President can carve out his own set of incentives and provide for a maximum of 40 years of incentives for an investment of $1 billion or 10,000 jobs. Clearly, this investment is much more than that... I'm sure, if we had passed CREATE yesterday, pasok ito. Baka ito na ang unang una sa desirable industries... --- Sen. Pia: At this point, I can tie it with the concern of Sen. Lacson... I understand that the intention of that provision Sen. Lacson pointed out in CREATE on repealing and amending certain provisions and all other similar ones was because... the idea was to centralize the incentives so we have an accountability system... What do we then intend to carve out and what do we intend to fall under CREATE? I am really confused and wondering if there is a purpose... --- Sen. Pia: Who would be the final arbiter...? That is precisely why CREATE includes the FIRB. Because they will review what the offerings will be and all that. So I simply mention these questions because these are also questions I am being asked during interpellations. And at least I have an answer there because I know it's FIRB to the extent that IPAs are already doing that, there's a big chance it would still continue to be delegated to the IPAs. But here, there is none... May I recommend to the committee that you look into who would be the final arbiter if her honor deems it better that there would be? Because these are tax issues and there would always tend to be questions on this... So I would pose it to the sponsor to consider if there would be. Because if there would not, then I guess it would be BIR? Am I correct? --- Sen. Pia: With the number of employees here, not just in the airport but auxiliary services that would fall under the airport city, anglaki din ng deductible kasi ng labor, at gustong gusto ni Sen. Joel Villanueva 'yun. Again, if I had more time to weigh in on it, there may be advantages in trying to see how they would have fit into the CREATE model. Kasi it's precisely aimed to benefit those who will be investing in this kind of matter... --- Sen. Pia: In connection with any possible environmental issue, whether it has to do with the flight of the birds or the mangrove areas, or even in the course of operating the business, there are sustainable and non-sustainable choices that can be made... If for whatever reason that became a law, then they would have to comply with these environmental laws... The only amendment that her honor can expect from me... The one I am prepared to make is basically an amendment that simply says they should operate in a sustainable manner. Something to that, subject to style... And I am pretty sure the proponents are on board. In fact, I can recall that the proponents, during the time of the pandemic, launched plant-based food. And I mentioned this because I support that, that is very research intensive. Because as they say, agriculture as we know it is already a thing of the past. So I know this company is very proactive when it comes to research and innovation. I just mentioned that to put on record, and I know that, and I am happy to see that. I am pretty sure they will choose sustainability over non-sustainability... They would choose to invest even if it takes longer to recoup their investment, knowing that is the way to operate their company. --- Sen. Pia: In terms of procedure, in the same way that my Committee on Ways and Means was secondarily referred... Would it not have been best to have the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources weigh in on it, just so we can get that clearance? The point I was trying to make was that, normally wouldn't the committee weigh in on it in the same way that the Ways and Means Committee would weigh in on the declaration of a land being alienable and disposable? --- Sen. Pia: I submit to the desire of the body that this be expedited. There is nothing more that I can do within this limited time that I have... I would have preferred to have more time to make suggestions and recommendations to improve it, especially since I have spent an inordinate amount of time on CREATE and I would have liked to be of service to our colleagues in improving this bill and ensuring cohesion with CREATE. I hate to put it this way, but I do have my reservations on whether we are able to capture any possible conflict with CREATE, if there are things left hanging, I am unable to respond to that in a responsible way because of the lack of time to study this properly. And I made that known on record. So I don't know what else I can do because I'm limited with the time. I am not able to research any further at this point. But there are hanging issues that I wish we could have been able to iron out clearly. I have my concerns on the implications in the future. I am very happy though that we will have an airport. I am happy that we have a responsible and forward-thinking company that is doing this. My worry is without having had sufficient time to look at the impact of CREATE on this and other franchises, we may create more problems for us. And I submit to the wisdom of my colleagues for future bills that will require exemption from the CREATE bill that we intend to pass. I do not know how anyone now intends for this to transpire. I am a bit lost on your directions for me because I do not understand the set of deadlines we are following to carve out others. But I do know and I have emphasized that this is a huge investment, a very important investment at that, and it would have, in all likelihood, gotten the highest amount of incentives under CREATE. That is my impression. But not falling under CREATE, I don't know what is the objective of the body if this will then serve as a precedent for other projects in the future. As the Indian Air Force is all set to celebrate its 88th anniversary on October 8, this is the first time that the newly-inducted Rafale fighter aircraft will be seen flying in the India skies during the Air Force day parade program. The Rafale fighter aircraft will fly in Vijay formation along with the Jaguars and then in the Transformer formation with the Su-30 MKI and LCA Tejas fighter aircraft during the Air Force Day parade this year, said the Indian Air Force. Sharing the details of the Rafale aircraft, the IAF said, ''Rafale is a 4.5 generation, twin-engine omnirole, air supremacy, interdiction, aerial reconnaissance, ground support, in-depth strike, anti-ship and nuclear deterrence fighter aircraft, equipped with a wide range of weapons.'' #AFDay2020: Rafale The Rafale is a 4.5 generation, twin-engine omnirole, air supremacy, interdiction, aerial reconnaissance, ground support, in-depth strike, anti-ship and nuclear deterrence fighter aircraft, equipped with a wide range of weapons.#KnowTheIAF#IndianAirForce pic.twitter.com/Zv6VXc17q9 Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) October 3, 2020 On the 88th anniversary of IAF, H-64E Apache, Mi-17 V5 helicopter, and IL-76 Gajraj will also soar into the sky. Live TV H-64E Apache is a twin-turbo shaft attack helicopter with a tandem cockpit for two crew & a tail wheel-type landing gear arrangement. The Mi-17 V5 is a medium-lift helicopter, equipped with state-of-art navigational equipment & modern avionics, designed to be deployed for troops & arms transport, fire support and search-and-rescue (SAR) missions. IL-76 Gajraj is a four-engine, multi-purpose, turbofan strategic airlifter and military-transport aircraft. The aircraft can deliver heavy machinery to remote areas, carry tanks, artillery & is utilised for HADR Operations. A day after walking out of the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar, Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) chief Chirag Paswan on Monday penned an open letter to people of the state, once again attacking incumbent Nitish Kumar governments seven resolves developmental programme, and the approach of the Janta Dal (United), or JD(U), towards its allies. On Sunday, the LJP had said that it would fight the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections separately and not as a part of the JD(U)-BJP alliance. The party, however, had reiterated that its differences were limited to the JD (U), and that it continues to support the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as an NDA ally at the Centre. In an emotionally charged letter, Chirag urged the people not to waste even a single vote by voting for a JD(U) candidate and went on to say that Bihar would have a BJP-LJP government after the polls next month. Every vote going to the JD(U) candidate will compel your children to migrate from the state. It is a do-or-die battle for 12-crore Bihar people, and we have nothing to lose. I know the way forward for the LJP is not going to be easy, but then it has not been easy for the people of Bihar for the last three decades either, he wrote. The LJP president also said that the decision to fight against the JD(U) was taken on the basis of suggestions received from the common people. And it (the decision to contest polls separately) is not to rule Bihar, but to feel proud of the state (Bihar par raaj karne ke liye nahin, balki Bihar par naaz karne ke liye), he added. He further wrote that some people might try to mislead the voters by attributing other motives to his decision. But let me tell you, the new government in the state will be BJP-led, comprising the LJP, and the elected MLAs of the party will strengthen the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he added. Also Read | JD(U) takes stock of situation as LJP exits NDA ahead of Bihar polls Bihar BJPs general secretary, Devesh Kumar, said that partys national president JP Nadda had already announced that NDAs CM candidate will be Nitish Kumar. We are fighting election under Nitish Kumars leadership, he added. Attacking the Nitish Kumar government on development and governance issues, he alleged that peoples grievances were neither redressed at the level of local officers nor at the CMs level in the state. This has resulted in the development of LJPs Bihar First, Bihari First vision document on the suggestions of four lakh people of Bihar, he wrote. Referring to his ailing father, founder of LJP and union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, Chirag wrote that he derived strength from him and his five-decade of social and political life. I am also worried about him. Seeing him in the hospital surrounded by all kinds of equipment is not easy. But with his blessings, I will go to the people with a promise to realise their dreams, he added. Chirag had on Sunday tweeted about a heart surgery his father had undergone at a Delhi hospital. My father always said that party interest is above personal interest and the national interest overrides everything. Today, my decision is in the interest of the country and Bihar. I know my father will also feel proud of me, though working in his company would have been even better, he wrote. Also Read | BJP and JDU agree to a 50-50 seat sharing for Bihar polls JD(U) spokesperson Rajiv Ranjan on Monday said Chirags political journey has so far been in the shadow of his father, and this election would be a big test for him. Being ambitious is not wrong, but being unrealistic certainly is. The benchmark of development set by Nitish Kumar is for all to see and feel. Nitish Kumar walks the talk, while some people talk and walk away. Nitish Kumar has already brought visible changes in the life of people, who will no more be swayed by empty promises, no matter which side they come from, he added. On Chirags claim of a potential BJP-LJP government ,Ranjan said it was a classic case of one-sided love. The pain of one-sided love will be borne by the LJP. BJP has announced that NDA will contest election under Nitish Kumars leadership and that explains everything, he added. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Arizona Student Journalist Sues University After Dismissal for Bringing up Jacob Blakes Sex Crime Charge An Arizona State University journalism student is suing the school after she was removed from her role at a student-run radio station for pointing out Jacob Blake had a warrant for his arrest over a sexual assault claim. RaeLee Klein, the 21-year-old former station manager of ASUs Blaze Radio, became the target of Black Lives Matter supporters when she posted on Twitter a New York Post story about the police shooting of Jacob Blake. The paper reported that officers responded to the scene where Blake was ultimately shot to arrest the Wisconsin man for violating a restraining order related to a sexual assault accusation. Always more to the story, folks, wrote Klein in an Aug. 29 Twitter post, with the New York Post article detailing the felony sexual assault warrant for Blake and how he had shown up at the home of his alleged victim before being shot after resisting arrest. Please read this article to get the background of Jacob Blakes warrant, she wrote. Youll be quite disgusted. Following social media outrage over Kleins comment, the Blaze Radios six-member board demanded Klein resign from her paid position. Klein refused to resign, saying she had done nothing wrong. She was then informed by the the dean of ASUs school of journalism that staying on as station manager is not an option for her. Klein was told she was in violation of the schools social media guidelines, which students are encouraged to abide by, according to the New York Post. Obviously as student journalists, its broken all the time as were learning to navigate social media, Klein said. At the time of the removal, I still did not know what I had done wrong. In a letter (pdf) to ASU, Kleins lawyer asked the university to either rehire Klein at Blaze Radio or provide damages of $1,000 for violating her First Amendment rights. The University must remain neutral on issues and matters such as this, the lawyer wrote, emphasizing that the ASU, as a public institution, is bounded by the First Amendment. Taking the decision to remove Ms. Klein is not remaining neutralit is picking a side. A complaint filed in July accused Blake, 29, of criminal trespass, third-degree sexual assault, and disorderly conduct. Blake has pleaded not guilty to all three charges. The criminal complaint, which was obtained by the New York Post, accused Blake of breaking into the home of a woman he knew and sexually assaulting her in May. The record states that the victim told police she was asleep when Blake broke into her home and sexually assaulted her. Foreign minister should apologize for husband's overseas trip Controversy has flared up over Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha's husband visiting the United States to purchase a yacht and take a holiday despite a "special travel advisory" recommending people to refrain from making unnecessary overseas trips to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The advisory stops short of a total travel ban but asks people to cancel or postpone nonessential tours to facilitate quarantine efforts. Lee Yill-byung, a professor emeritus at Yonsei University, wrote in his blog about his plan to buy a Kanter 51 Pilothouse and sail along the U.S. eastern coast to the Caribbean Sea. His act seems to be inappropriate in light of the fact that more than 7.3 million people, including President Donald Trump and his wife, have been infected with the COVID-19 in the United States. Lee already traveled to Vietnam in February despite the travel ban advisory. He purchased an air ticket to Greece in June, but later cancelled the flight. He was spotted at Incheon International Airport, Saturday, and said, "The coronavirus will not disappear in one or two days. I cannot stay at home every day. It is my life and I am not supposed to read others' mind only." In a sense, Lee's remark is understandable given the long-persisting pandemic forcing social distancing and self-isolation at home. A majority of people might want to enjoy their lives just as Lee did. But most people abide by the government's advisory because they put a priority on quarantine and security over their private lives. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued the special travel advisory March 23 and extended it until Sept. 18. There is a public consensus that overseas travel should be refrained from unless it is inevitable for official or business purposes. The ruling and opposition parties alike have heaped criticism on Lee by noting it is improper for a family member of the foreign minister who is in charge of issuing the overseas travel advisory to take a trip purely for his own purposes. Against this backdrop, the question may arise: How can the government ask the people to continue to refrain from making overseas trips? Even Rep. Kim Tae-nyeon, floor leader of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea, described Lee's behavior as "inappropriate." Top-ranking officials and their family members need to maintain a proper code of conduct equivalent to their status and role. Kang tried to get out of the controversy by expressing regret for the case during a meeting with ranking ministry officials. She should offer an official apology to the people for failing to prevent her husband from taking such an "extravagant trip" at a time when the people are refraining from engaging in outdoor activities. The Wisconsin Supreme Court late Friday agreed to weigh in on whether the Republican-controlled Legislature has standing to challenge a federal court ruling that extends the period that absentee ballots can be counted until Nov. 9, giving Republicans a slight win in the critical battleground state. The high courts decision is in response to a request from the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Friday, just four weeks before the election. The state Supreme Court ordered legal responses to be submitted Monday. The appeals court said it wants to have a final decision by no later than next week. The case is being closely watched in Wisconsin, which President Donald Trump won by fewer than 23,000 votes four years ago. More than 1.2 million absentee ballots have been requested and more than a third of them have already been returned. The appeals court earlier this week ruled that the Legislature, along with the Republican National Committee and Wisconsin Republican Party, did not have the standing in the case. It also rejected a request from the Legislature to put its decision on hold while the legal fight continues. A favorable ruling from the state Supreme Court would help Republicans in their appeal. When Republicans gathered at the White House on Sept. 26 to celebrate the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court, they placed themselves at the epicenter of a likely superspreader event. Several senators in attendancein addition to the president, the first lady, Chris Christie, and multiple GOP operativesreported COVID-19 infections in the following days. Trump remains hospitalized while key Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee are in quarantine. Yet on Friday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell insisted that he will move full steam ahead with confirmation hearings to install Barrett on the Supreme Court, even if that means endangering themselves and Senate staff. McConnell understands theyll have to act fast to make it happen. Advertisement Democrats, meanwhile, have been slow to catch up. At the first debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, Biden refused to say whether hed expand the Supreme Court if Republicans confirm Barrett, insisting that the issue is a distraction. Hes wrong. Broaching the conversation about systemic reform after the election will be too late. And the coming Supreme Court term, which begins Monday, reflects just some of whats at stake, this week, this month, and in the months ahead. The debate about structural changes to the court cant wait until a hypothetical future in which everything has settled down. That future has already vanished. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the docket just in the weeks to come, there is a blockbuster case that seeks to put a stake through the heart of the Affordable Care Act, in the midst of a pandemica challenge Barrett would seem to favor. Also on the docket is a case about a Philadelphia foster care agency that refuses to work with same-sex couples and claims that it constitutes religious discrimination if the city refuses to subsidize it with taxpayer dollars. In case that werent enough, the court may also hear a case that could strip same-sex couples of equal parenting rights. Moving from religion to guns, the court has been itching to expand the Second Amendment, and Barrett has made plain that she would go further than even most conservative judges to permit guns. The court will also hear a case that could kill off whats left of the Voting Rights Act. Plus, there are multiple reproductive freedom cases hurtling toward the court, many from states that have already overruled Roe v. Wade in practice: outright abortion bans, sham regulations designed to shutter clinics, medically unnecessary restrictions on medication abortions. All that, plus an election in which the court may pick the next president and further restrict voting rights. And did we mention a census case that could strip congressional representation from states with large immigrant populations? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If a 63 conservative majority decides all these cases, they would swiftly transform American life and put millions in danger. By the end of this term, SCOTUS could revoke more than 20 million Americans health insurance and legalize odious discrimination against same-sex couples. It could not just greenlight abortion bans but allow states to prosecute women who terminate their pregnancies. It could abolish dozens of states gun safety laws, further flooding our communities with weapons of war. And as the cherry on top, the court could throw the election to Trump, then rubber-stamp his plan to manipulate the census to further entrench Republican power in Congress. Advertisement Advertisement In the face of these impending calamities for democracy, Democrats have a binary choice. They can accept the legitimacy of a court whose membership has been yanked far to the right by Republicans anti-democratic schemes. Or they could add seats to the court and spare the country from the Sarlacc pit into which its poised to tumble. Advertisement Democrats are hesitant to talk about expanding the Supreme Court, preferring to focus on the fight against Amy Coney Barrett. But her confirmation now seems all but inevitable, and progressives are urging Democrats to start considering their counterattack. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has said that nothing is off the table next year if Republicans ram Barrett through the Senate, a vague gesture toward at least the possibility of court expansion. Sen. Joe Manchin, a moderate Democrat, has disavowed it altogether. Joe Biden has tried to split the difference: He generally refuses to talk about court expansion but has implied that he opposes itfor now. We need to deescalate, not escalate, Biden said on Sept. 20. Thats why I appeal to those few Senate Republicans, the handful who really will decide what happens. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Because court expansion remains relatively unpopular among the American public, a cautious approach makes sense in this political moment. But in the longer term, it is a recipe for disaster. Say Democrats decide against expanding the court after Barretts confirmation, instead choosing to pass their progressive agenda and then wait a few years to see whether the new 63 conservative majority strikes it down. Due to the slow pace of litigation, the Supreme Court might not consider the constitutionality of Democratic measures until Republicans have retaken the Senate. Consider the Affordable Care Act saga. The Supreme Court first ruled on the ACAs constitutionality 27 months after it was signed into law. It came one vote away from invalidating the entire law. And while the justices let most of the law survive, they kneecapped its most crucial component, Medicaid expansion, by making it optional, a compromise that has cost thousands of lives. More than 10 years after the laws passage, a dozen states still havent expanded Medicaid. Then, in 2016six years after the ACAs passagethe Supreme Court came two votes away from sending the law into a death spiral. Today, the court may yet again be on the brink of eradicating the entire act. Judicial time is glacial, yes, but it also means thatlike light from a faraway starwhat happens in the courts can take years to travel to Earth. But this isnt starlight, its a meteor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That means that even if Democrats win Congress and the White House, then pass ambitious laws, this cycle will play out over the next few years. Essentially all of their priorities are extremely vulnerable to invalidation at the hands of an ultra-conservative 63 court. The Democrats bill on ethics, voting rights, and redistricting reform would probably be strangled by this judiciary. Their attempt to grant statehood to the District of Columbia could founder on the shoals of a ridiculous constitutional theory. Any effort to expand the ACA would be suspect, as would efforts to limit carbon emissions. The leading plans to protect abortion rights if SCOTUS overturns Roe v. Wade would get eviscerated by the courts. After years of health care litigation, it is painfully clear that conservative justices will embrace frivolous legal arguments that the vast majority of lawyers find meritless to reach their preferred policy outcomes. This coming term, we will see the beginning of that, with a few strategic defections in a handful of cases, but a steady and marked trend toward clawing back Democrats efforts to protect the vote, protect the planet, and expand protections for workers and vulnerable communities. We will see a systematic effort to deregulate big businesses, constrain federal agencies, undo gun control, and loosen protections for womens health. That is coming and it is coming sooner than you may think. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If Democrats plan to expand the court, then, they have to do it quickly. They must strike before the conservative supermajority has a chance to undermine them. If they wait for sufficient provocation, give this a few years to play out in the judicial branch, they will simply see their agenda torn to shreds by the court two years later, after Republicans have wrestled back the Senate. Court expansion is not a hypothetical response to some future SCOTUS outrage. It is a proportional response to Republicans constitutional hardballand a necessary precursor to any meaningful Democratic reform. Advertisement Advertisement Is there a political cost to announcing that Democrats plan to play constitutional hardball, effective immediately, whether it be scaring off moderate voters or emboldening Mitch McConnell to implement these selfsame ideas if he still controls the Senate come January? Sure there is. But the cost of hanging around for a few years, hoping that statesmanship and comity rise like a phoenix from the ash heap of the Senate is far greater, the equivalent of bringing a sparkly pony to a knife fight. The court is already lost for a generation. Retaking the White House and the Senate in November will do nothing to solve that problem. Bold and big action on court reform on Day One of a new administration isnt a fanciful hope. It may be the only lifeline that remains. David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet | Henley Regal Picturehouse | Monday, September 28 AT 94, David Attenborough is perfectly positioned to sound the alarm on the environmental chaos that has been unleashed on the planet. Our elder statesman of the natural world has observed the slow decline of biodiversity over his long career spanning more than 60 years since his expedition to Sierra Leone for the BBC back in 1954. He charts these dramatic changes in his new film, A Life on Our Planet, which is showing at the Regal Picturehouse this week. We watch in the eerie opening scene as Attenborough treads through the broken glass of a deserted classroom in Pripyat, the city that was devastated by the 1986 explosion of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor. The disaster serves as a metaphor for the spiralling decline of our planets biodiversity, which Attenborough calls the true tragedy of our time. He explains: This isnt about saving our planet. Its about saving ourselves. With or without us, the natural world will rebuild. The film carries with it the familiar Attenborough trademarks we all know and love: the soothing, rich voice; the extraordinary cinematography showing the natural world in all its splendour; the rousing soundtrack. But this film is a radical departure from his previous work. Attenborough describes it as his witness statement a reference to the crimes the human race has inflicted upon the natural world. The film takes on an uncharacteristically alarming tone, and it is a deeply personal account, with moments where Attenborough looks almost broken with emotion. He warns us: Were facing nothing less than the collapse of the living world. The tone is bleak as Attenborough paints a picture of an increasingly chaotic world. The Amazon rainforest on track to become a dry savannah by 2030, wreaking havoc with the global water cycle. Coral reefs dying and fish populations crashing by the 2050s. Global food security crises and unpredictable weather patterns by the 2080s. Vast swathes of the world uninhabitable with millions homeless by 2100. But we are reassured when our narrator tells us that the solution is quite straightforward, adding: We must restore biodiversity. We must re-wild the world. We return to Pripyat at the end of the film, and witness how the forests have engulfed the abandoned city, now devoid of human life except for our visitor. I was mindful of Attenboroughs great age and wisdom, and how this is likely to be his final work. As we watch our national treasure disappear under the cover of the trees and the camera zooms out, he reminds us that a species can only thrive when everything else around it thrives too. If we take care of nature, nature will take care of us. Kate Oldridge YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. The parliament of Artsakh calls on the parliaments of all the countries to recognize the independence of Artsakh as the most effective way to put an end to the ongoing grave crimes against the peaceful population of Artsakh, and to protect their rights. As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the National Assembly of Artsakh, the statement runs as follows, Considering that the Azerbaijani armed forces, in a flagrant violation of the Charter of the United Nations, launched an armed attack against on the Republic of Artsakh along the entire border between the Republic of Artsakh and Azerbaijan; Emphasizing Turkeys direct involvement in the military aggression against the Republic of Artsakh, and its de facto command and control of the military operations; Expressing deep concern with regard to the involvement of fighters from the terrorist organization by Turkey and Azerbaijan in their aggression against the Republic of Artsakh; Whereas the aggression against on the Republic of Artsakh is ongoing with increasing intensity, and is accompanied by serious violations of the laws and customs applicable in armed conflicts, including use of indiscriminate weapons with great distractive power against towns and villages including the capital Stepanakert, as a result of which there are many civilian casualties; Welcoming the steps of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries the Russian Federation, the United States of America and French Republic, as well as of the international community aimed at the restoring peace in the region, and at the same time regretting that because of the destructive position of Turkey and Azerbaijan these steps have not led to practical results; Stressing that this latest aggression of Azerbaijan against the Republic of Artsakh should be viewed in the context of widespread and systematic attacks on the civilian population, undertaken by the Azerbaijani side both in time of war and peace from the very beginning of the National Liberation Movement of Artsakh in 1988, and to this day; Recognizing that continued violations of the fundamental rights of citizens of the Republic of Artsakh, and impeding the exercise of their inalienable rights constitute a crime against humanity; The National Assembly of the Republic of Artsakh strongly condemns the military aggression of Turkey and Azerbaijan in alliance with international terrorist organizations and calls on parliaments around the world to recognize the independence of the Republic of Artsakh as the most effective way to put an end to the ongoing grave crimes against the peaceful population of Artsakh, and to protect their rights. LATAM offers such a product but it sucks I did not find you a better link than that because you don't want to buy it. Not ever. There are some conditions not mentioned. - You have to buy this outside of South America via a travel agent. - You have to arrive on a OneWorld Airline. So for someone in Portsmouth that would be Iberia via Madrid or American Airlines via Dallas or Miami. No way is this "The most affordable and convenient way to travel to South America." as that link asserts. These vouchers have extra flexibility so the price is higher. Furthermore, LATAM does not have particularly good itineraries in Colombia. Airlines in South America tend to have either point of sale or residency requirements. So for example, in Peru, LATAM will charge you more for not being Peruvian, but in Chile and Colombia you only have to be buying the ticket in country (Or on the Colombian version of the website in this case.) It would be much cheaper and more flexible to just hop on the internet and book a ticket when you want one. Have a choice of all airlines and pay national rates. By Mahmoud Mourad CAIRO (Reuters) - In her village in Egypt's Nile Delta, 35-year-old Shaimaa Saleh has spent sleepless nights worrying how to raise almost $1,000 to save her unfinished three-storey home. Like hundreds of thousands of others, and many dependents, she faces a deadline at the end of October by which residents of buildings without permits - mostly in poor areas - must apply to regularise their property for a fee, or face demolition. Officials say that the law introduced last year is part of a crackdown on illegal buildings that violate safety standards, hinder traffic and development, and encroach on arable land. It's part of a drive by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to upgrade infrastructure and housing and deal with decades of haphazard construction that accelerated after a 2011 uprising. But for some residents the demolition threat is a fresh blow after years of economic austerity, rising prices and, most recently, the fallout from the coronavirus. "I have been struggling to make a living as a farm hand to feed my three children since my husband died in Kuwait last year," said Saleh, a resident of Defriya village in Kafr El-Sheikh province. "I make around 1,500 pounds ($95.48) (a month) from work and my late father's pension. But the government wants 15,000 pounds to regularise my house." Her husband, who was a construction worker, started building the red brick house in 2014 without a permit and later added two unfinished floors, a typical construction in Egypt where informal housing has long been the norm. Reuters spoke to a dozen residents in three provinces who said they had struggled to the pay a settlement fee of between 50 and 2,000 pounds per square meter. Egypt's state press centre did not respond to questions about their plight and the fees. SPORADIC CLASHES The government campaign has led to tensions in some communities. In Saryaqos, a village outside Cairo, bulldozers destroyed four informal buildings in late August, before the deadline expired, residents said. Story continues Angry residents threw stones at the bulldozers and workers who were accompanied by policemen, according to four residents and a video posted online. The housing and local development ministries declined to comment on complaints about demolitions before the deadline. Local authorities in Qalyubia province did not respond to questions about the incident, but a security official said 15 men had been arrested for rioting. Egyptian authorities have detained several hundred people in recent days, a rights group has said, amid reports of small, scattered demonstrations against Sisi. The president has complained that not enough people were coming forward to regularise their properties, and in televised remarks threatened to deploy the army in villages to demolish illegal houses if violations did not stop. Some residents in Saryaqos told Reuters that they rushed to regularise their property after the incident. Leilani Farha, who visited Egypt as U.N. Special Rapporteur on the Right to Housing in 2018 and now heads The Shift, a housing rights group, said the campaign risked indebting the poor. "Many of the people who are building are of course not wealthy and don't have the resources to pay a fine. You cannot squeeze water from a stone," she said. CONSTRUCTION BOOM The campaign has accompanied a military-led construction boom of highways, bridges, new cities and industrial zones that not even the coronavirus pandemic has slowed. Sisi, who recently ordered the government to build one million housing units, has said every Egyptian who wants a flat will get one. Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly said the fees, which can be paid over three years, would be invested in improving infrastructure. Officials say they are also battling to conserve limited arable land. Egypt's population hit 100 million this year, 97% of whom live on just 8% of the desert country's territory along the Nile. Entire settlements sprung up as builders exploited lax law enforcement in the turmoil that followed 2011. Egypt lost 90,000 feddans of farmland (37,800 hectares) as a result, Madbouly said. But some residents said they are being squeezed for cash after the state tolerated their housing for years, while others said landlords had sold them apartments claiming they had been built legally. Three small contractors and owners of high-rise buildings said they had to pay millions to settle their infringements and warned that this would undermine their businesses. One said he had four of his buildings demolished in March. The government softened its stance in recent weeks by extending the settlement deadline initially set for Sept. 30 by one month and lowering the fees. Authorities collected almost 7 billion pounds in fees by mid-September, a local development ministry statement said. Some 1.1 million applications for settlement have been received. (Additional reporting Ahmed Mohamed Hassan, Nadeen Ebrahim and Aidan Lewis; writing by Ulf Laessing; editing by Mike Collett-White) The state board that investigates allegations of misconduct among Louisiana lawyers has reprimanded the district attorney for the Felicianas after determining that a lawsuit he filed against the West Feliciana Parish Council and some of its members constituted a conflict of interest. The disciplinary action stems from a 2017 lawsuit Sam DAquilla filed against the West Feliciana Parish Council and four of its members, according to disciplinary records obtained through an open records request on Monday. D'Aquilla is the District Attorney for the 20th Judicial District, which covers East and West Feliciana Parish. DAquillas lawsuit alleged the council violated the parishs home rule charter and state open meetings laws when the members voted to remove people serving on various boards and commissions without publicly disclosing the matter on its meeting agenda. The Office of Disciplinary Counsel said that, because D'Aquilla had represented the parish council in the past, the lawsuit created a conflict of interest and violated his duty to a former client, according to the report. D'Aquilla said in an interview Monday that the three people removed from their positions couldnt afford lawyers to challenge the councils actions, which he maintained broke state and local rules. I was trying to do a good thing because some people cant really afford the justice system, he said. I feel like they were being discriminated against. DAquilla files suit against West Feliciana Parish Council ST. FRANCISVILLE District Attorney Sam DAquilla has filed a lawsuit against the West Feliciana Parish Council and four of its members on be Before the Disciplinary Board held hearings, DAquilla and the board reached an agreement requiring the longtime prosecutor to pay all costs and fees but that the infraction didn't rise to the level of suspension or revoking his ability to practice law. Instead, D'Aquilla received a public reprimand, which goes on his record but carries no additional penalties or suspensions. Details of attorney disciplinary cases are often open to the public, but little information was initially released about what led to the investigation or his reprimand. While some cases of attorney disciplinary proceedings include details of allegations, investigation findings and other materials, D'Aquila's was limited to a few brief sentences in a Supreme Court summary Sept. 29. Top stories in Baton Rouge in your inbox Twice daily we'll send you the day's biggest headlines. Sign up today. e-mail address * Sign Up Then, five justices voted to uphold the sanction and two voted against. One of the dissenters wanted a stiffer penalty. When the matter was before the disciplinary panel, five of seven board members approved the agreement, and one of the two members who rejected the agreement said the punishment was too lenient. In its order last week, the state Supreme Court said that, during the investigation, D'Aquilla "made a false statement of material fact to the ODC." DAquilla has served as District Attorney since 2003, and he was re-elected for a fourth term this spring after he was the only candidate to qualify for the office. He has no prior disciplinary history, according to the Supreme Court. The challenge D'Aquilla filed alleging a violation of the parish charter was eventually dismissed due to inaction, and a district judge also found the parish council did not violate the open meeting law. DAquilla said at the time he reluctantly agreed to file the lawsuit following a groundswell of complaints by the public who were concerned with how the council had been handling parish business. During the West Feliciana Parish Council meeting in early 2017, a woman who had served on the parishs tourism commission happened to be at the meeting but wasnt told the council planned to vote on her removal, according to D'Aquilla's lawsuit. It also stated two others who were removed from planning and tourism commissions were also voted out, but not by the required super-majority needed to remove members. The states open meetings laws require local governments to give notice and an outline of matters they plan to take up during public meetings. Its very unfortunate for the people who were victimized by the council, DAquilla said. They got thrown to the side. EDITOR'S NOTE: This story was updated Oct. 8, 2020, to reflect a district judge's ruling that found the West Feliciana Parish Council did not violate the state open meetings act. DALLAS, Oct. 5, 2020 -- Having a spouse in a hospital's intensive care unit (ICU) may make a person more likely to have a heart attack or cardiac-related hospitalization themselves within a few weeks of the ICU admission, according to new research published today in the American Heart Association's flagship journal Circulation. "Spouses of ICU patients should pay attention to their own physical health, especially in terms of cardiovascular disease," said the study's senior author Hiroyuki Ohbe, M.D., M.P.H., a Ph.D. student in the department of clinical epidemiology and health economics in the School of Public Health at The University of Tokyo in Japan. "The ICU can be a stressful environment with significant caregiving burdens, and spouses may face tough decisions about continuing or ending life-sustaining treatment." "A patient's admission to ICU puts acute psychological stress on family members, and that stress may increase the risk for cardiovascular disease particularly for the other spouse," Ohbe said. This study is the first to suggest ICU admission of a spouse may be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease events and hospitalization in the other spouse. According to previous research, about a quarter to one-half of family members of a critically ill patient experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress, anxiety and depression, known as "post-intensive care syndrome-family." Studies about bereavement have shown an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases particularly in the early weeks and months after a loved one has died, known as broken-heart syndrome (also called stress-induced cardiomyopathy or takutsobo cardiomyopathy). Researchers matched spouses of patients admitted to the ICU for more than two days with people randomly selected from the Japan Medical Data Center database of 6 million inpatient and outpatient health insurance claims between January 2005 and August 2018. Among 2.1 million people (just over one million married couples), more than 7,800 spouses of patients admitted to ICUs were matched with more than 31,000 people randomly selected from the database. The average age of the spouses was 54, and 35% were men. The two groups were matched for sex, age and medical insurance status. Researchers evaluated data for any visit for cardiovascular disease, hospitalization for cardiovascular diseases and severe cardiovascular events. Compared to people without a spouse in the ICU, those with a husband or wife in the ICU: had increased odds of having a cardiovascular event, such as chest pain, heart attack, stroke, irregular heart rhythm, heart failure or pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs) within a month; and were more likely to be hospitalized for cardiovascular diseases and hospitalized for severe cardiovascular events. Because the database includes only patients with employment health insurance, it may limit the ability to generalize the findings to other populations such as older adults or those without insurance. The findings should also be applicable to U.S. adults who have health insurance. Previous studies and the current American College of Critical Care Medicine guidelines on care for family members of ICU patients have focused mostly on mental health, researchers noted. No studies have examined the physical health risks for family members. More studies are needed to confirm the findings of this research and to explore if behavior adjustments during this stressful time, such as changes in social ties, living arrangements, eating habits, alcohol consumption and economic support, are factors. ### Co-authors are Tadahiro Goto, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D.; Yuki Miyamoto, M.D.; and Hideo Yasunaga, M.D., Ph.D. No disclosures were reported. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare; and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan funded the study. Additional Resources: Available multimedia is on right column of release link - https://newsroom.heart.org/news/spouses-of-icu-patients-may-be-at-increased-risk-for-cardiac-events-or-hospitalization?preview=bb594dff49c1cbedde80dae49c6740ca Statements and conclusions of studies published in the American Heart Association's scientific journals are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect the Association's policy or position. The Association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. The Association receives funding primarily from individuals; foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific Association programs and events. The Association has strict policies to prevent these relationships from influencing the science content. Revenues from pharmaceutical and biotech companies, device manufacturers and health insurance providers are available here, and the Association's overall financial information is available here. About the American Heart Association The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public's health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. For Media Inquiries and AHA/ASA Expert Perspective: 214-706-1173 Bridgette McNeill: bridgette.mcneill@heart.org For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721) heart.org and stroke.org The Syrian Arab Army has stormed the town of Kanaker, seizing weapons and explosives and submitting terms to militant groups in the area. The Syrian army resumed their military operation inside the town of Kanaker on Sunday, amid a new attempt by the government to crackdown on the militant sleeper cells that are wreaking havoc on the reconciled areas. On Friday, an agreement was reached between the government forces and the notables of Kanaker, providing for the entry of Assads forces to search for weapons in the region. The government, according to Alsouria Net, has not commented on the Kanaker event and left the story to appear on pro-government Sham FM radio, which confirmed the presence of Assads forces, on Thursday. Assads forces mobilized and besieged the town of Kanaker 14 days ago, and threatened to storm it, if the people of the area did not surrender their weapons. According to a field source in Damascus, the Syrian army continued to comb through Kanaker on Sunday morning, with their troops entering several buildings that were suspected of having a militant presence. The source said the Syrian army has already discovered warehouses filled with weapons, along with small labs used to make explosives inside Kanaker. They added that the Syrian army has offered the militants inside Kanaker terms of surrender, which includes their transfer to any part of northwestern Syria that they choose. As of now, the militants have not responded to the offer, but as the Syrian army continues its military operation in Kanaker, the armed assailants will likely have no choice but to agree to the terms. The army began their operation in Kanaker on Saturday, following a week-long military buildup around the town. This article was 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. Bull and bear statues outside Frankfurt's stock exchange. Photo: Alex Domanski/Reuters Deutsche Borse, Germanys stock exchange operator, is considering stringent new admission rules as part of reforms in the wake of the Wirecard accounting-fraud scandal. It is also proposing increasing the size of the blue-chip DAX index (^GDAXI) from 30 to 40 companies. It's no secret that I personally would welcome the expansion of the Dax 30 to a Dax 40, said Deutsche Borse chief executive Theodor Weimer on Monday. "I am looking forward to the result and am sure that the further development of the criteria will help the German capital market to achieve further quality. READ MORE: German lawmakers to launch parliamentary probe into Wirecard scandal Investors have until 4 November to submit their comments on the stricter new admission criteria, which include banning companies from the DAX if they dont submit their accounts on time. Members of all the German indices, which include the DAX, MDAX, TecDAX and SDAX, would also need to show proof of an audit committee on their supervisory board in future. The new proposals say that companies should be demonstrably profitable before they can move up into the leading DAX index. In addition, firms making more than 10% of their revenue from controversial weapons sales would be excluded from the indices, which include the DAX, MDAX, TecDAX and SDAX. As part of the proposals, the small-cap MDax would shrink by 10, to a total of 60 companies. The German financial world and the political establishment has been rocked by the enormous scandal at payments company Wirecard, after it emerged in June this year that billions were missing from its balancesheet. READ MORE: Germanys financial regulator chief rules out resigning over Wirecard scandal Wirecard declared bankruptcy in June, and was ejected from the DAX in August. The former German fintech darling had ousted Commerzbank from the blue-chip index when it joined in 2018. Insolvency administrators are currently in the process of selling off the companys assets to try and recoup some of the billions owed to its creditors. Watch: What is a V-shaped economic recovery? A son who sent death threats to politicians including former-Prime Minister Theresa May because he feared his mother would fail the UK immigration test is facing jail. Wajid Shah, 27, from Slough, believed the test was too difficult for his mother Noreen to pass as she spoke no English. Shah sent threats to Tory MP for Romsey and Southampton North Caroline Nokes, Labour MP for Slough Tan Dhesi and Mark Lancaster, Conservative MP for Milton Keynes North. He also targeted Lord David Blunkett and Baroness Ruth Lister - both Labour peers - along with then-Prime Minister Mrs May, in March and April last year. An email sent to Shahs local MP Mr Dhesi, sent on March 28, read: Youre a real b*****d Tan Dhesi you son of b***h motherf*****, Im going to kill you with a knife or a gun you b*****d c*** d***head p***k. I chop your f****** head off.' Wajid Shah, 27, (pictured outside court) sent death threats to politicians - including former-Prime Minister Theresa May - because he feared his mother would fail the UK immigration test Shah was convicted of six charges of sending electronic communications with intent to cause distress or anxiety by a jury at Southwark Crown Court. Judge Philip Bartle, QC, ordered reports and adjourned sentence until November 20. Shah sent the emails through the website WriteToThem.com, used for contacting politicians. He signed the messages off in either the name of his father - takeaway worker Azmat Shah - or Jobcentre Plus worker Jasmindar Badyal. Ms Badyal said Shah attended the Job Centre every day to use the computers on his job search, mostly by himself. Jurors heard the Shah family had split, with the eldest brother Wajid, his younger brother Abid and mother Noreen living, cooking and sleeping in one room while the father and other brother lived in other rooms. Shah sent threats to Labour Peer Lord David Blunkett (right) and then-Prime Minister Mrs May (left), in March and April last year Barry McElduff, prosecuting, said: It would seem that the relations between Azmat and Noreen had broken down and the children had taken sides in the fall out from that breakdown, reflected in one way by the sleeping arrangements. Wajid and Abid sharing the largest with their mother, it would seem that in addition to sleeping they used it as a de facto living room, and kitchen as well. It gives you an idea of how things were breaking down, sadly, in the family. It would seem the two other boys are very close to mother and would act as translators for Noreen Shah as she spoke little or no English. Wajid had considerable anxiety about her necessity, should it arise, to complete the UK citizenship test. An email sent to Shahs local MP Tan Dhesi (pictured), sent on March 28, read: Youre a real b*****d Tan Dhesi you son of b***h motherf*****, Im going to kill you with a knife or a gun you b*****d c*** d***head p***k. I chop your f****** head off' And the UK citizenship test sits alongside the allegations of this case for this reason. Many of the persons that received abusive emails in this case either had a direct link to the UK immigration test or a perceived link to the UK immigration test. Mr McElduff said one of the politicians who had received emails was Lord Blunkett as it 'was he who initiated the test'. Tory MP for Romsey and Southampton North Caroline Nokes received an email saying: Im going to kill you fucking b**** and Im going to kill you f****** bitch' Mr McElduff added: 'Caroline Nokes was an immigration minister in the government last year, someone it may have been felt by the defendant to have influence in this area. Ms Nokes received an email saying: Im going to kill you fucking b**** and Im going to kill you f****** bitch. The prosecutor said then-Prime Minister Mrs May received an email, threatening to kill her with a knife or a gun, purporting to be from Azmat. The abuse was similar in most of the emails, said Mr McElduff. Shah was later arrested over the threatening messages. The court was told Shah - who suffers from a learning disability - was deemed suitable to take part in Maximus, a work choice program tailored to help people get into work. Giving evidence, Ms Badyal described Shah as quiet, polite and compliant and said he avoided interacting with others. Shah pleaded not guilty but was convicted of six counts of sending electronic communication with intent to cause fear. He maintained that he never sent any of the threatening messages. Shah will return for sentencing on November 20. Monday, October 5, 2020 at 5:34AM If you want to save some money on your Netflix subscription and want to get the new Chromecast, this bundle is for you. Google is offering the Chromecast with Google TV with Netflix for $119.99. You will get six months of Netflix's standard streaming plan, which supports two screens. This is valued at $83.94. The Chromecast itself details for $69.99. If you get the bundle, you save around $34. As new COVID-19 cases have continued to surge in Ontario, so has the provinces backlog in testing a problem experts say is hindering our ability to assess the true spread of the virus. As of Monday, Ontarios testing backlog sat at about 68,000, down from more than 90,000 a few days ago. The province says it is aiming to be able to process 50,000 tests per day within the next few weeks. A backlog in the testing lab has the knock-on effect of delaying other virus indicators downstream: numbers become unreliable, people cant get their tests in a timely way and effective contact tracing cant be done, said Dr. Sumontra Chakrabarti, an infectious disease expert with Trillium Health Partners in Mississauga. You now no longer have a good sense of what is happening on the ground with COVID transmission, he said. When you cant see whats happening on the ground, you can no longer do precision interventions to keep small outbreaks in check, and you risk things getting out of control and having to do blanket closures of public places, like restaurants and gyms, again. Speaking to reporters Monday, Premier Doug Ford urged people to be considerate if they think they need a test but dont show any symptoms. If youre out there and youre concerned, get tested. But we always emphasize if you dont show any symptoms at all, please, dont get tested, he said. Let the people that are showing symptoms get in front of you. Let the emergency service folks get in front of you, the long-term care, the front-line health-care workers. But its not like testing surges werent predictable, Chakarabarti said, noting that todays backlog can be traced back to the summer when everyone who wanted a COVID-19 test was encouraged to go to an assessment centre and get one. Many of us in this field knew this was not a good idea. Many people were using this, for example, prior to going to a cottage to clear themselves. The test was not designed to answer this question, he said. Also, we anticipated that once the school surge started, we would rapidly overwhelm the centres, and then the lab. Ontarios testing backlog is just one indicator we look at in this weekly stock-taking of how our battle with COVID-19 is faring, which features analysis from three infectious disease experts. What are the implications of a testing backlog? There is a danger that comes with delayed test results, and that is individuals awaiting results may not fully isolate themselves, said Todd Coleman, an epidemiologist at Wilfrid Laurier University. The uncertainty around not having a timely test result could mean that some people could potentially take the attitude that no news is good news, he said. Weve seen examples of that happening and that could potentially lead to further spread, Coleman said. The false sense of security, in my opinion, stems more from the messaging thats been perpetuated about COVID-19, especially when it comes to individuals who end up with severe, mild, or asymptomatic manifestations. Asymptomatic spread is a real opportunity, and the long-term outcomes of COVID-19 are still not fully known. Testing delays are harming us a lot, said Colin Furness, an infection control epidemiologist and assistant professor at U of Ts faculty of information, echoing Colemans concerns that much of COVID transmission can occur because people are asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic. So a delay of a day is brutal. A delay of a few days is even worse, Furness said. Some people, if they think theyve been exposed, will go ahead and isolate themselves completely, but a lot of people wont. And so thats serious. Ontario and Quebec compared Together, Canadas two most populous provinces account for about 80 per cent of Canadas 168,024 COVID-19 cases to date. On Monday, Ontario reported 615 new infections marking the eighth straight day the province has recorded more than 500 new cases, while Quebec reported a record-high 1,191 new cases in the past 24 hours. To date, Ontario has recorded 58,814 cases since the start of the pandemic, while Quebec has recorded 79,650 cases. In Ontario, there are a number of factors driving the increase in cases, depending on where you live, said Chakrabarti, noting that while transmissions have been related to indoor dining and bars, those are not the main drivers. Rather, he said indoor gatherings in private dwellings, such as parties, weddings, card games, people getting together to watch sports, and even in-home religious services. The point is, its people gathering in groups indoors for a prolonged period of time, he said. I want to dispel the myth that its just parties. Next, Chakrabarti said many cases are travel-related that occur when people have found themselves trapped abroad only to contract the virus when they are finally able to re-enter Canada. There have also been cases of people contracting COVID-19 in the U.S. while travelling there for work and play, he added. Another source of infections is workplaces, particularly crowded settings like factories and restaurants. In these cases, he said, workers can bring the infection home, often to large households of as many as eight people. This household amplification was happening all over the GTA, including my own region of Peel, he said. What parts of the province are leading in cases? Locally, as of Monday, there were 289 new COVID-19 cases in Toronto, 88 in Peel and 81 in Ottawa. Fifty-eight per cent of the cases are in people under the age of 40. Toronto, Ottawa, Peel and York continue to lead the province in daily new cases. Why are more people getting infected? From a simple biological standpoint, theyre getting exposed to the virus more. Why are they getting exposed to the virus more? Theyre coming into contact with more people, said Coleman. You dont get this in isolation from sitting in your house. There are two scenarios that could play out in Ontario, said Furness. In one, the virus continues to spread through the provinces young people, but does not penetrate into other demographics, he said. In that case, while young adults continue to get sick, were going to see lower hospitalizations and lower deaths, he said, though the number of positive cases will look alarming. In a more likely and dire situation, COVID manages to leak away from the 20-something population to the other groups. And so then what we will see is a lot of outbreaks in long-term-care homes. Were going to see grandparents getting sick, people who live with the 20-somethings getting sick, Furness said. And then finally its going to make its way into families with young kids, and then itll make its way into schools. Women are leading in nationwide cases Across Canada, across all age brackets (Under 19, 20-29, 30-39, etc.), more women have tested positive for COVID-19 than men, with the exception of the 60-69 bracket. Both Coleman and Furness agreed that occupational risk could be an explanation as to why women become infected. Caring professionals such as nurses, teachers and personal support workers tend to be careers held by more women. In terms of health care if were talking about nurses in hospitals, we know that a significant chunk of the cases are actually people who are working in health care, Coleman explained. Since women tend to pay close attention to their health, theyre also more likely to get tested if theyre feeling ill, Furness said. Women are far more likely to get tested. Therefore, were detecting cases among women, he said, adding that women can have more positive health behaviours, along with better health outcomes than men. Kenyon Wallace is a Toronto-based investigative reporter for the Star. Follow him on Twitter: @KenyonWallace or reach him via email: kwallace@thestar.ca Jenna Moon is a breaking news reporter for the Star and is based in Toronto. Follow her on Twitter: @_jennamoon Read more about: Chandrajit Banerjee By India is projected to have the largest working population in the world between 2022 and 2034, with 10 million youth entering the workforce every year. Unleashing the true potential of such a strong workforce demands employment capacity of the industry. Therefore, rigidities and administrative burden in the labour regime were required to be addressed through substantive reforms. The passage of three labour codes in Parliament marked a milestone in this process and came after many years of consultations and discussions between the government, industry, trade unions and other stakeholders. In the last five years, India has seen several legislative reforms to boost employment generation such as the Shram Suvidha Portal, MUDRA (Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency), Startup India, Make in India, Skill India, digitisation of labour law compliances, etc. With the codes on wages, industrial relations, social security, and welfare and safety, a new environment for job creation is underway. Existing labour laws were found to be out of sync with the evolving business regulatory environment and Indias growth aspirations. Successful emerging economies on a development path have leveraged their labour supply for accelerating growth; however, Indias labour laws were applicable to around 80 million workers in the formal sector, leaving the rest of the 500 million-strong workforce out of these benefits. On the business side, due to procedural rigidities in workforce adjustment, firms are unable to respond to product market competition, resulting in high transaction costs that adversely impact productivity as well as employment. Also, multiplicity, overlap and unclear definitions of terms such as establishment, industry, wages and workers create unnecessary confusion and prolong litigations. The Labour Code on Wages was the first code passed by Parliament in 2019. The Code subsumes four major acts concerning wages and ensures the minimum and timely payment of wages to all workers in both the organised and unorganised sectors. Many unorganised workers such as agricultural workers, painters, etc., who were out of the ambit of the earlier Minimum Wages Act, were afforded legislative protection under it. The Code clarifies the definition of wages, as the presence of multiple definitions under different Acts has always led to litigation and added to the cost of compliance for industry. Companies will be benefited as the number of registers, returns, forms, etc., can not only be electronically filed and maintained, but also be provided in a single template. Many changes have been introduced in the inspection rules, including the web-based randomised computerised inspection scheme, jurisdiction-free inspections, calling of information electronically for inspection, compounding of offences, etc. These changes will enable the enforcement of the Code with transparency and accountability. The rationalisation of the method of fixing minimum wages will significantly reduce the number of minimum wage slabs and is certainly a step towards ease of doing business. The Code on Industrial Relations 2020 is the central Code that impacts the industrial ecosystem and labour relations in the country. The introduction of Fixed Term Employment and change in the threshold limit for retrenchment will boost generation of new employment, particularly for larger firms. The increase in the threshold for taking prior permission of the government for retrenchment from 100 to 300 workers will also enable smaller firms to grow. Further, the Code provides for speedier adjudication of disputes and appropriate rules for strikes and lockouts to be preceded by a mandatory 14-day prior notice. The Code on Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions applies to establishments employing at least 10 people, all workers in mines and docks, and hazardous operations employing even a single worker. The provision of a national helpline for interstate migrant workers and an annual travel allowance from the employer to visit their place of origin gives protection and relief to the former. The Code permits women to work in night shifts in all establishments for all types of work, which would help enhance female workforce participation. The Code on Social Security replaces nine laws dealing with the issue. The insurance benefits under ESI are extended to plantation workers, gig workers, platform workers and unorganised sector workers. It has also increased the coverage of the scheme to 740 districts from the present 566. Also, the option for becoming a member of ESIC is being given to establishments employing less than 10 workers as well. Focusing on ease of doing business, a number of states have relaxed rules on registrations, registers, returns, filings, inspections, working hours, shifts, etc., while retaining important safeguards pertaining to overtime pay, paid leave, health and safety protocols. The introduction of these labour reforms is welcomed by the industry. The momentum, which has been built over six years, has finally led to substantive reforms that will positively impact both workers and industry. The labour reforms will certainly boost entrepreneurship and investments, and are an important step for reviving Indias economy. Chandrajit Banerjee Director General, Confederation of Indian Industry (cb@cii.in) Over 80,000 fake accounts were created on various social media platforms on June 14 to discredit Mumbai police and Maharashtra government over the ongoing investigation into the death of 34-year-old Bollywood actor Sushant Singh Rajput. Mumbai police commissioner has asked the cyber cell to investigate and register cases under the Information Technology Act. Mumbai polices cyber unit has made a report where it has been found that posts were uploaded on social media platforms from different countries like Italy, Japan, Poland, Slovenia, Indonesia, Turkey, Thailand, Romania and France. We identified the posts in foreign languages because of the hashtags used like #justiceforsushant #sushantsinghrajput and #SSR. Were in the process of verifying more accounts, said a senior IPS officer. Also read: SSR death probe - What home ministry and AIIMS are saying The campaign was run against Mumbai police just to demoralise us at a time when 84 policemen had died due to the pandemic and over 6,000 men were infected with the virus. This was a motivated campaign with vested interest just to malign the image of Mumbai police and derail our line of investigation. Multiple fake accounts on social media were created to target Mumbai police with abusive tones. Our cyber cell is conducting a thorough investigation into this matter and all those found violating the law will be prosecuted under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act, said Param Bir Singh, Mumbai police commissioner. Reacting to reports of AIIMS having ruled out the possibility of murder, Singh said, We had investigated this case very professionally. The CBI had created a panel of AIIMS doctors who have justified our investigation and the findings of Cooper hospital and forensic laboratory. Except for a few people, nobody else was aware of our investigation still many have criticized the investigation. Days after Parliament passed the controversial agriculture bills, several state governments have begun crafting strategies to avoid its implementation. This is a predictable consequence of a process of law-making that undermines Indias federal consensus. Agriculture is a state subject. The passage of national laws, on a state subject, marks a rupture in Indias federal trajectory. There is no argument that Indias agriculture markets, mandis in particular, have been stuck in a low-level equilibrium and need reform. Greater accessibility, transparency and competition are necessary goals. But even the most ardent supporters of the new laws recognise that liberalising agriculture markets requires negotiating knotty implementation issues. The Constitution assigned jurisdiction over agriculture markets to states due to the very localised nature of farm production. The first sale between the farmer and the trader is linked with the production process. This is location specific and it is states who are best placed to determine the contours of production and sale including, taxation, credit, building farmer producer organisations and physical markets. The current laws upend this. They bypass states by drawing on the Centres constitutional powers to regulate inter-state and intra-state trade note that the Act dealing with Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) reform is titled The Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020. But they leave a critical institutional vacuum about how state-specific implementation investments, crucial for running efficient markets, will be negotiated and managed, when states are bypassed. Moreover, they create an artificial distinction between markets areas (regulated by the mandi system under state governments) and trade areas (now under the central Acts), thus risking a regulatory maze. Beyond implementation, the choice of bypassing states in the quest to reform raises questions fundamental to the federal bargain. Our national debates on agriculture, and indeed other factor markets, have been framed by a deep disenchantment with state governments. This is not unjustified. States have routinely failed to challenge political interests. Agriculture subsidies and minimum support price (MSP) systems are intertwined with vested interests in states. Punjab, for instance, has failed to challenge this regime despite significant fiscal and environmental damage. On markets, states have done more. Karnataka experimented with electronic market integration, Madhya Pradesh with private single-licence yards, Maharashtra built infrastructure for private markets. However, the pace was uneven. State failure raises an important federal conundrum. What is the Centres role when state political economy is the binding constraint for reform? As the economy becomes more complex, there is a sound economic rationale for pursuing the goal of a common national market across factor markets. This requires consensus-building, a task that rests squarely with the Centre. But when states allow political concerns to override, should the Centre bypass states by bulldozing reforms? Our disenchantment with states has legitimised the bulldozing approach. But this undermines reforms. For instance, the artificial distinction between markets areas and trade areas in these laws, has resulted in a new battleground as states are now expanding their market territory. Punjab has declared its intent to declare the entire state a market area. Haryana stopped trade from Uttar Pradesh. Further bulldozing breaks trust. There is much more to agriculture reforms than mandis. Several elements of the production process including subsidy reforms and the vexed MSP question need untangling. As agricultural economist, Sudha Narayan, has noted, the Punjab farmers concerns with MSP are different from those of the Bihar farmers. Arriving at an appropriate pathway of subsidy, price support and procurement reforms will require extensive consultations. By riding roughshod over state-specific concerns, there is a real risk of foreclosing the possibility of future reforms on these issues, which are necessary to achieve the goal of infusing competition and giving farmers genuine choices. There is a delicious irony here. Indias reform successes, where reform efforts have broken ground, are entirely about state-led innovation. It is thus, worth asking whether an alternative process that focused on building trust and creating a deliberative platform, such as the proposed national council for agriculture markets, aimed at persuading states to hasten reforms and synchronise legislation, may have been better. Indias federal project has often found itself in tension with the project of economic reforms. Policy narratives have been dominated by growing impatience with consensus-building and negotiating state politics. We look for reform champions and crises to push big ideas, thus legitimising, across political parties, central government encroachment on state subjects. The new agriculture laws are symptomatic of this larger federal conundrum. However, this governments use of its brute majority and suspension of parliamentary procedure to push these bills have taken away the only institutional check and balance against total centralisation of power parliamentary deliberation. What was needed to reform agriculture was political statesmanship and consensus-building for genuine cooperative federalism. Instead, we got political bulldozing and have ended up with a poorly-drafted law, a broken reform process, and a weakened federal compact. Yamini Aiyar is president and chief executive, Centre for Policy Research. Mekhala Krishnamurthy is a senior fellow and director of the State Capacity Initiative, CPR and associate professor, Ashoka University The views expressed are personal Vietnams Ministry of Science and Technology has introduced a project on compiling the countrys first-ever open encyclopedia. The encyclopedia project, which can be accessed at bktt.vn, is carried out by the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences (VASS) and FPT Technology Research Institute (FTRI) on an open source platform. The FTRI will mobilize community resources to build and operate the infrastructure and technology solutions, as well as encouraging people, especially the intellectual, to participate in the compilation of the open encyclopedia. The VASS will review and make suitable adjustments to the information provided by the community and decide whether the contributions will become the official content of the encyclopedia. The bktt.vn project will be the countrys first open encyclopedia that is compiled by the community. This is also the first time that Vietnam has built a platform that synthesizes, systematizes, stores, and disseminates knowledge of the country and world in a digital environment. The objective during the first phase of the project is to create 60,000 high-quality entries that are regularly updated by the official editorial board. After a printed version of the Vietnamese encyclopedia is published, its content will be posted online under the government's decision for people to look up. Aside from the open encyclopedia, the technology ministry also announced three other digital platforms, including iNhandao.vn, antoancovid.vn, and iGiaoduc.vn. With the message of 'connecting millions of hearts,' iNhandao.vn is a digital charity platform that allows benefactors to join hands to help others. antoancovid.vn is a digital map that includes features of the Vietnam Digital Map (vmap.vn) and is capable of showing real-time updates on COVID-19 prevention and control efforts at such crowded establishments as schools and medical facilities. iGiaoduc.vn is an education portal aimed at creating an online digital database that can collect and share content to support teaching, testing, and evaluation methods at local schools, while assisting online teaching. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! After a summer of protests and a decision by the City Council not to cut police spending, the debate over reforming the San Antonio Police Department is about to get more complicated. In the months ahead, Mayor Ron Nirenberg and council members will have to navigate pressure from activists, neighborhood groups and state lawmakers as they settle on potential changes to SAPD all while fighting to keep their seats in next Mays election. Further complicating matters are the citys upcoming contract negotiations with the San Antonio police officers union, a battle that could spill over into the election. City leaders soon will embark on a six-month process to re-examine SAPD and what residents want from the department. City Manager Erik Walsh plans to put a reform package in front of council members in April weeks before voters decide whether Nirenberg and council incumbents deserve another term. Activists who pushed the mayor and council to spend less on police and more on social services still are sore over the councils decision two weeks ago to increase the 2020-21 police budget by $8 million. They say a tepid reform package could fuel opposition to incumbents. Those people, youve already upset anyway, activist Pharaoh Clark said, referring to voters who oppose changes to the SAPD. Theyre not going to be voting for you. However, if you upset the other side, too, now you run the risk of having both sides of the bridge bail on you. Clark said of the mayor, I feel like hes trying to be pretty fair and balanced on both sides. But I also think in a time like this, that can be what costs you. Council members and neighborhood leaders have been quick to point out that, despite recent calls to defund police, residents tend to favor more police spending and more officers on the street. Former City Councilman Mike Gallagher president of the Northeast Neighborhood Alliance, which includes more than 80 neighborhood associations said many of the alliances members favor keeping police spending at current levels. He pointed to satisfaction with two of SAPDs community policing programs: the Fear Free Environment unit and Citizens on Patrol. The way that it was phrased to me over and over was, No defunding, Gallagher said. What I took away was that they believe we ought to have more police. Any reform efforts should take a balanced approach, he said. I think what we all need to do to get through this very difficult issue is to put ourselves in the position of both sides of it, Gallagher said. How would you feel if youre the one thats being tased by a policeman? Or how would you feel if youre the policeman panicked that youre going to be injured by someone? The picture grows more complex in the citys urban core. Cosima Colvin, who heads the Beacon Hill Neighborhood Association and is part of the Tier One Neighborhood Coalition, said fights have broken out in her associations Facebook group over Black Lives Matter and police issues. But overall, Colvin said, she would expect the neighborhood which includes a mix of established Mexican American and white families as well as young newcomers to skew in favor of changes in policing. I think we typically understand more that reform is not a scary or radical idea, Colvin said. Its just modifying, its just trying to improve on something. Thats what it is. Its not trying to destroy anything. Though residents tend to have favorable views of law enforcement, they have shown an appetite for greater accountability for officers, according to recent polling by the nonprofit, nonpartisan Bexar Facts. Respondents overwhelmingly rejected the notion of defunding police, with 76 percent saying SAPDs budget should stay as is, Bexar Facts found. But a slim majority 51 percent said money from SAPDs budget should be redirected to pay for mental health services, substance abuse treatment and similar programs. Fifty-five percent of respondents approve of the union, the San Antonio Police Officers Association, according to Bexar Facts. But 65 percent said the union has been a barrier to holding local police officers accountable for misconduct and that they would vote to take away its collective bargaining rights if given the chance. Come spring, union leaders could find themselves fighting on two fronts at the bargaining table and the ballot box. An organization called Fix SAPD is trying to gather enough signatures to put a pair of measures on the May ballot that would take away the unions ability to bargain for its contract and void a disciplinary process that advocates say goes too easy on wayward officers. Union president Mike Helle has framed the effort as a ruse to defund police an outcome that Fix SAPD leaders say isnt their intent. If the union and its allies can frame police reform efforts including the citys planned six-month study and the Fix SAPD initiative as a means to defund the police, they will win the day, said Christian Archer, a veteran political strategist who heads Bexar Facts. If all reforms are considered defunding and they win that message battle, it will be trouble for incumbents, Archer said. You will see them crawfish away from any true reforms that the public actually wants to see happen. City leaders still are figuring out how the process to re-examine SAPD will work. Walsh is expected to lay out a framework this week. The citys deliberate approach has puzzled some activists and onlookers. After all, city officials for years have tried to control public safety costs. Sheryl Sculley, city manager from 2005 to 2019, drew vehement opposition from the police and fire unions when she tried to rein in how much the city pays for uniformed employees health care. Police and firefighters wound up having to pay some of their own health care costs under new contracts but only after lengthy legal fights and bitter public battles between city officials and union leaders. Outside the business community, Sculley often lacked a vocal constituency to back her up on cutting public safety spending. Now that one has emerged in the Black Lives Matter movement, some onlookers wonder: Whats the holdup? The citys been asking for this for a long time, said Chris Dawkins of the Lakeside Neighborhood Association on the citys East Side. Now they get the opportunity, and now theyre backing up? District 6 Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda, who chairs the Public Safety Committee, shares that sense of frustration. The city has made some progress on policing issues, she said, but not necessarily (at) the pace I would like. SAPD has banned the use of no-knock warrants and limited the use of chokeholds. The department also made changes in how it handles mental health calls. Under the 2020-21 budget, the city will put all its violence prevention programs under one roof at the Metropolitan Health District and move 20 civilian employees who work with domestic violence victims from SAPD to Metro Health. It also will assign 25 officers to focus on domestic violence prevention. Havrda said she wanted to take more sweeping action but that the police contract stood in the way. More than three-quarters of the citys police spending about $387 million is mandated by the contract, which determines wages and benefits as well as spending on costs including uniforms, vehicles and ammunition. I would have really liked to have taken this budget, wiped the slate clean and just started from scratch and said, Lets start to figure something out, Havrda said. But Havrda noted that residents in her West Side district dont necessarily want to see less money spent on police, though they see a need for reform, specifically in how police respond to people suffering mental health crises. I think that what is indisputable is that we need to change, Havrda said. We need to address the community, what theyre saying to us. We cant turn our backs. We cant pretend that we dont hear it. Others on the council say the city doesnt have to wait on reforms until the six-month review has been completed in April. District 4 Councilwoman Adriana Rocha Garcia points to recommendations on training and discipline laid out in 2016 by then-Mayor Ivy Taylors Council on Police Community Relations. Weve waited four years, so we have some clear indication of what a good representation of the community wanted, Garcia said. Why not start there? Why not bring this up again and use that as a starting point instead of reinventing the wheel? Nagging at some activists is a fear that if council members take too long to hammer out reforms, frustration could boil over. We dont want that to happen here, Clark said. Were trying to make sure that this city stays and remains peaceful. Joshua Fechter is a staff writer covering San Antonio government and politics. To read more from Joshua, become a subscriber. jfechter@express-news.net | Twitter: @JFReports 1 An Overview of Networks Somewhere there might be a field of interest in which the order of presentation of topics is well agreed upon. Computer networking is not it. There are many interconnections in the field of networking, as in most technical fields, and it is difficult to find an order of presentation that does not involve endless forward references to future chapters; this is true even if as is done here a largely bottom-up ordering is followed. I have therefore taken here a different approach: this first chapter is a summary of the essentials LANs, IP and TCP across the board, and later chapters expand on the material here. Local Area Networks, or LANs, are the physical networks that provide the connection between machines within, say, a home, school or corporation. LANs are, as the name says, local; it is the IP, or Internet Protocol, layer that provides an abstraction for connecting multiple LANs into, well, the Internet. Finally, TCP deals with transport and connections and actually sending user data. This chapter also contains some important other material. The section on datagram forwarding, central to packet-based switching and routing, is essential. This chapter also discusses packets generally, congestion, and sliding windows, but those topics are revisited in later chapters. Firewalls and network address translation are also covered here and not elsewhere. 1.1 Layers These three topics LANs, IP and TCP are often called layers; they constitute the Link layer, the Internetwork layer, and the Transport layer respectively. Together with the Application layer (the software you use), these form the four-layer model for networks. A layer, in this context, corresponds strongly to the idea of a programming interface or library, with the understanding that a given layer communicates directly only with the two layers immediately above and below it. An application hands off a chunk of data to the TCP library, which in turn makes calls to the IP library, which in turn calls the LAN layer for actual delivery. An application does not interact directly with the IP and LAN layers at all. The LAN layer is in charge of actual delivery of packets, using LAN-layer-supplied addresses. It is often conceptually subdivided into the physical layer dealing with, eg, the analog electrical, optical or radio signaling mechanisms involved, and above that an abstracted logical LAN layer that describes all the digital that is, non-analog operations on packets; see 2.1.4 The LAN Layer. The physical layer is generally of direct concern only to those designing LAN hardware; the kernel software interface to the LAN corresponds to the logical LAN layer. This LAN physical/logical division gives us the Internet five-layer model. This is less a formal hierarchy than an ad hoc classification method. We will return to this below in 1.15 IETF and OSI, where we will also introduce two more rather obscure layers that complete the seven-layer model. 1.2 Data Rate, Throughput and Bandwidth Any one network connection eg at the LAN layer has a data rate: the rate at which bits are transmitted. In some LANs (eg Wi-Fi) the data rate can vary with time. Throughput refers to the overall effective transmission rate, taking into account things like transmission overhead, protocol inefficiencies and perhaps even competing traffic. It is generally measured at a higher network layer than the data rate. The term bandwidth can be used to refer to either of these, though we here use it mostly as a synonym for data rate. The term comes from radio transmission, where the width of the frequency band available is proportional, all else being equal, to the data rate that can be achieved. In discussions about TCP, the term goodput is sometimes used to refer to what might also be called application-layer throughput: the amount of usable data delivered to the receiving application. Specifically, retransmitted data is counted only once when calculating goodput but might be counted twice under some interpretations of throughput. Data rates are generally measured in kilobits per second (kbps) or megabits per second (Mbps); the use of the lower-case b here denotes bits. In the context of data rates, a kilobit is 103 bits (not 210) and a megabit is 106 bits. Somewhat inconsistently, we follow the tradition of using kB and MB to denote data volumes of 210 and 220 bytes respectively, with the upper-case B denoting bytes. The newer abbreviations KiB and MiB would be more precise, but the consequences of confusion are modest. 1.3 Packets Packets are modest-sized buffers of data, transmitted as a unit through some shared set of links. Of necessity, packets need to be prefixed with a header containing delivery information. In the common case known as datagram forwarding, the header contains a destination address; headers in networks using so-called virtual-circuit forwarding contain instead an identifier for the connection. Almost all networking today (and for the past 50 years) is packet-based, although we will later look briefly at some circuit-switched options for voice telephony. At the LAN layer, packets can be viewed as the imposition of a buffer (and addressing) structure on top of low-level serial lines; additional layers then impose additional structure. Informally, packets are often referred to as frames at the LAN layer, and as segments at the Transport layer. The maximum packet size supported by a given LAN (eg Ethernet, Token Ring or ATM) is an intrinsic attribute of that LAN. Ethernet allows a maximum of 1500 bytes of data. By comparison, TCP/IP packets originally often held only 512 bytes of data, while early Token Ring packets could contain up to 4 kB of data. While there are proponents of very large packet sizes, larger even than 64 kB, at the other extreme the ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) protocol uses 48 bytes of data per packet, and there are good reasons for believing in modest packet sizes. One potential issue is how to forward packets from a large-packet LAN to (or through) a small-packet LAN; in later chapters we will look at how the IP (or Internet Protocol) layer addresses this. Generally each layer adds its own header. Ethernet headers are typically 14 bytes, IP headers 20 bytes, and TCP headers 20 bytes. If a TCP connection sends 512 bytes of data per packet, then the headers amount to 10% of the total, a not-unreasonable overhead. For one common Voice-over-IP option, packets contain 160 bytes of data and 54 bytes of headers, making the header about 25% of the total. Compressing the 160 bytes of audio, however, may bring the data portion down to 20 bytes, meaning that the headers are now 73% of the total; see 25.11.4 RTP and VoIP. In datagram-forwarding networks the appropriate header will contain the address of the destination and perhaps other delivery information. Internal nodes of the network called routers or switches will then try to ensure that the packet is delivered to the requested destination. The concept of packets and packet switching was first introduced by Paul Baran in 1962 ([PB62]). Barans primary concern was with network survivability in the event of node failure; existing centrally switched protocols were vulnerable to central failure. In 1964, Donald Davies independently developed many of the same concepts; it was Davies who coined the term packet. It is perhaps worth noting that packets are buffers built of 8-bit bytes, and all hardware today agrees what a byte is (hardware agrees by convention on the order in which the bits of a byte are to be transmitted). 8-bit bytes are universal now, but it was not always so. Perhaps the last great non-byte-oriented hardware platform, which did indeed overlap with the Internet era broadly construed, was the DEC-10, which had a 36-bit word size; a word could hold five 7-bit ASCII characters. The early Internet specifications introduced the term octet (an 8-bit byte) and required that packets be sequences of octets; non-octet-oriented hosts had to be able to convert. Thus was chaos averted. Note that there are still byte-oriented data issues; as one example, binary integers can be represented as a sequence of bytes in either big-endian or little-endian byte order (16.1.5 Binary Data). RFC 1700 specifies that Internet protocols use big-endian byte order, therefore sometimes called network byte order. 1.4 Datagram Forwarding In the datagram-forwarding model of packet delivery, packet headers contain a destination address. It is up to the intervening switches or routers to look at this address and get the packet to the correct destination. In datagram forwarding this is achieved by providing each switch with a forwarding table of destination,next_hop pairs. When a packet arrives, the switch looks up the destination address (presumed globally unique) in its forwarding table and finds the next_hop information: the immediate-neighbor address to which or interface by which the packet should be forwarded in order to bring it one step closer to its final destination. The next_hop value in a forwarding table is a single entry; each switch is responsible for only one step in the packets path. However, if all is well, the network of switches will be able to deliver the packet, one hop at a time, to its ultimate destination. The destination entries in the forwarding table do not have to correspond exactly with the packet destination addresses, though in the examples here they do, and they do for Ethernet datagram forwarding. However, for IP routing, the table destination entries will correspond to prefixes of IP addresses; this leads to a huge savings in space. The fundamental requirement is that the switch can perform a lookup operation, using its forwarding table and the destination address in the arriving packet, to determine the next hop. Just how the forwarding table is built is a question for later; we will return to this for Ethernet switches in 2.4.1 Ethernet Learning Algorithm and for IP routers in 13 Routing-Update Algorithms. For now, the forwarding tables may be thought of as created through initial configuration. In the diagram below, switch S1 has interfaces 0, 1 and 2, and S2 has interfaces 0,1,2,3. If A is to send a packet to B, S1 must have a forwarding-table entry indicating that destination B is reached via its interface 2, and S2 must have an entry forwarding the packet out on interface 3. A complete forwarding table for S1, using interface numbers in the next_hop column, would be: S1 destination next_hop A 0 C 1 B 2 D 2 E 2 The table for S2 might be as follows, where we have consolidated destinations A and C for visual simplicity. S2 destination next_hop A,C 0 D 1 E 2 B 3 In the network diagrammed above, all links are point-to-point, and so each interface corresponds to the unique immediate neighbor reached by that interface. We can thus replace the interface entries in the next_hop column with the name of the corresponding neighbor. For human readers, using neighbors in the next_hop column is usually much more readable. S1s table can now be written as follows (with consolidation of the entries for B, D and E): S1 destination next_hop A A C C B,D,E S2 A central feature of datagram forwarding is that each packet is forwarded in isolation; the switches involved do not have any awareness of any higher-layer logical connections established between endpoints. This is also called stateless forwarding, in that the forwarding tables have no per-connection state. RFC 1122 put it this way (in the context of IP-layer datagram forwarding): To improve robustness of the communication system, gateways are designed to be stateless, forwarding each IP datagram independently of other datagrams. As a result, redundant paths can be exploited to provide robust service in spite of failures of intervening gateways and networks. The fundamental alternative to datagram forwarding is virtual circuits, 5.4 Virtual Circuits. In virtual-circuit networks, each router maintains state about each connection passing through it; different connections can be routed differently. If packet forwarding depends, for example, on per-connection information eg both TCP port numbers it is not datagram forwarding. (That said, it arguably still is datagram forwarding if web traffic to TCP port 80 is forwarded differently than all other traffic, because that rule does not depend on the specific connection.) Datagram forwarding is sometimes allowed to use other information beyond the destination address. In theory, IP routing can be done based on the destination address and some quality-of-service information, allowing, for example, different routing to the same destination for high-bandwidth bulk traffic and for low-latency real-time traffic. In practice, most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) ignore user-provided quality-of-service information in the IP header, except by prearranged agreement, and route only based on the destination. By convention, switching devices acting at the LAN layer and forwarding packets based on the LAN address are called switches (or, originally, bridges; some still prefer that term), while such devices acting at the IP layer and forwarding on the IP address are called routers. Datagram forwarding is used both by Ethernet switches and by IP routers, though the destinations in Ethernet forwarding tables are individual nodes while the destinations in IP routers are entire networks (that is, sets of nodes). In IP routers within end-user sites it is common for a forwarding table to include a catchall default entry, matching any IP address that is nonlocal and so needs to be routed out into the Internet at large. Unlike the consolidated entries for B, D and E in the table above for S1, which likely would have to be implemented as actual separate entries, a default entry is a single record representing where to forward the packet if no other destination match is found. Here is a forwarding table for S1, above, with a default entry replacing the last three entries: S1 destination next_hop A 0 C 1 default 2 Default entries make sense only when we can tell by looking at an address that it does not represent a nearby node. This is common in IP networks because an IP address encodes the destination network, and routers generally know all the local networks. It is however rare in Ethernets, because there is generally no correlation between Ethernet addresses and locality. If S1 above were an Ethernet switch, and it had some means of knowing that interfaces 0 and 1 connected directly to individual hosts, not switches and S1 knew the addresses of these hosts then making interface 2 a default route would make sense. In practice, however, Ethernet switches do not know what kind of device connects to a given interface. 1.5 Topology In the network diagrammed in the previous section, there are no loops; graph theorists might describe this by saying the network graph is acyclic, or is a tree. In a loop-free network there is a unique path between any pair of nodes. The forwarding-table algorithm has only to make sure that every destination appears in the forwarding tables; the issue of choosing between alternative paths does not arise. However, if there are no loops then there is no redundancy: any broken link will result in partitioning the network into two pieces that cannot communicate. All else being equal (which it is not, but never mind for now), redundancy is a good thing. However, once we start including redundancy, we have to make decisions among the multiple paths to a destination. Consider, for a moment, the following network: Should S1 list S2 or S3 as the next_hop to B? Both paths AS1S2S4B and AS1S3S4B get there. There is no right answer. Even if one path is faster than the other, taking the slower path is not exactly wrong (especially if the slower path is, say, less expensive). Some sort of protocol must exist to provide a mechanism by which S1 can make the choice (though this mechanism might be as simple as choosing to route via the first path discovered to the given destination). We also want protocols to make sure that, if S1 reaches B via S2 and the S2S4 link fails, then S1 will switch over to the still-working S1S3S4B route. As we shall see, many LANs (in particular Ethernet) prefer tree networks with no redundancy, while IP has complex protocols in support of redundancy (13 Routing-Update Algorithms). 1.5.1 Traffic Engineering In some cases the decision above between routes AS1S2S4B and AS1S3S4B might be of material significance perhaps the S2S4 link is slower than the others, or is more congested. We will use the term traffic engineering to refer to any intentional selection of one route over another, or any elevation of the priority of one class of traffic. The route selection can either be directly intentional, through configuration, or can be implicit in the selection or tuning of algorithms that then make these route-selection choices automatically. As an example of the latter, the algorithms of 13.1 Distance-Vector Routing-Update Algorithm build forwarding tables on their own, but those tables are greatly influenced by the administrative assignment of link costs. With pure datagram forwarding, used at either the LAN or the IP layer, the path taken by a packet is determined solely by its destination, and traffic engineering is limited to the choices made between alternative paths. We have already, however, suggested that datagram forwarding can be extended to take quality-of-service information into account; this may be used to have voice traffic with its relatively low bandwidth but intolerance for delay take an entirely different path than bulk file transfers. Alternatively, the network manager may simply assign voice traffic a higher priority, so it does not have to wait in queues behind file-transfer traffic. The quality-of-service information may be set by the end-user, in which case an ISP may wish to recognize it only for designated users, which in turn means that the ISP will implicitly use the traffic source when making routing decisions. Alternatively, the quality-of-service information may be set by the ISP itself, based on its best guess as to the application; this means that the ISP may be using packet size, port number (1.12 Transport) and other contents as part of the routing decision. For some explicit mechanisms supporting this kind of routing, see 13.6 Routing on Other Attributes. At the LAN layer, traffic-engineering mechanisms are historically limited, though see 3.4 Software-Defined Networking. At the IP layer, more strategies are available; see 25 Quality of Service. 1.6 Routing Loops A potential drawback to datagram forwarding is the possibility of a routing loop: a set of entries in the forwarding tables that cause some packets to circulate endlessly. For example, in the previous picture we would have a routing loop if, for (nonexistent) destination C, S1 forwarded to S2, S2 forwarded to S4, S4 forwarded to S3, and S3 forwarded to S1. A packet sent to C would not only not be delivered, but in circling endlessly it might easily consume a large majority of the bandwidth. Routing loops typically arise because the creation of the forwarding tables is often distributed, and there is no global authority to detect inconsistencies. Even when there is such an authority, temporary routing loops can be created due to notification delays. Routing loops can also occur in networks where the underlying link topology is loop-free; for example, in the previous diagram we could, again for destination C, have S1 forward to S2 and S2 forward back to S1. We will refer to such a case as a linear routing loop. All datagram-forwarding protocols need some way of detecting and avoiding routing loops. Ethernet, for example, avoids nonlinear routing loops by disallowing loops in the underlying network topology, and avoids linear routing loops by not having switches forward a packet back out the interface by which it arrived. IP provides for a one-byte Time to Live (TTL) field in the IP header; it is set by the sender and decremented by 1 at each router; a packet is discarded if its TTL reaches 0. This limits the number of times a wayward packet can be forwarded to the initial TTL value, typically 64. In datagram routing, a switch is responsible only for the next hop to the ultimate destination; if a switch has a complete path in mind, there is no guarantee that the next_hop switch or any other downstream switch will continue to forward along that path. Misunderstandings can potentially lead to routing loops. Consider this network: D might feel that the best path to B is DECB (perhaps because it believes the AD link is to be avoided). If E similarly decides the best path to B is EDAB, and if D and E both choose their next_hop for B based on these best paths, then a linear routing loop is formed: D routes to B via E and E routes to B via D. Although each of D and E have identified a usable path, that path is not in fact followed. Moral: successful datagram routing requires cooperation and a consistent view of the network. 1.7 Congestion Switches introduce the possibility of congestion: packets arriving faster than they can be sent out. This can happen with just two interfaces, if the inbound interface has a higher bandwidth than the outbound interface; another common source of congestion is traffic arriving on multiple inputs and all destined for the same output. Whatever the reason, if packets are arriving for a given outbound interface faster than they can be sent, a queue will form for that interface. Once that queue is full, packets will be dropped. The most common strategy (though not the only one) is to drop any packets that arrive when the queue is full. The term congestion may refer either to the point where the queue is just beginning to build up, or to the point where the queue is full and packets are lost. In their paper [CJ89], Chiu and Jain refer to the first point as the knee; this is where the slope of the load vs throughput graph flattens. They refer to the second point as the cliff; this is where packet losses may lead to a precipitous decline in throughput. Other authors use the term contention for knee-congestion. In the Internet, most packet losses are due to congestion. This is not because congestion is especially bad (though it can be, at times), but rather that other types of losses (eg due to packet corruption) are insignificant by comparison. When to Upgrade? Deciding when a network really does have insufficient bandwidth is not a technical issue but an economic one. The number of customers may increase, the cost of bandwidth may decrease or customers may simply be willing to pay more to have data transfers complete in less time; customers here can be external or in-house. Monitoring of links and routers for congestion can, however, help determine exactly what parts of the network would most benefit from upgrade. We emphasize that the presence of congestion does not mean that a network has a shortage of bandwidth. Bulk-traffic senders (though not real-time senders) attempt to send as fast as possible, and congestion is simply the networks feedback that the maximum transmission rate has been reached. For further discussion, including alternative definitions of longer-term congestion, see [BCL09]. Congestion is a sign of a problem in real-time networks, which we will consider in 25 Quality of Service. In these networks losses due to congestion must generally be kept to an absolute minimum; one way to achieve this is to limit the acceptance of new connections unless sufficient resources are available. 1.8 Packets Again Perhaps the core justification for packets, Barans concerns about node failure notwithstanding, is that the same link can carry, at different times, different packets representing traffic to different destinations and from different senders. Thus, packets are the key to supporting shared transmission lines; that is, they support the multiplexing of multiple communications channels over a single cable. The alternative of a separate physical line between every pair of machines grows prohibitively complex very quickly (though virtual circuits between every pair of machines in a datacenter are not uncommon; see 5.4 Virtual Circuits). From this shared-medium perspective, an important packet feature is the maximum packet size, as this represents the maximum time a sender can send before other senders get a chance. The alternative of unbounded packet sizes would lead to prolonged network unavailability for everyone else if someone downloaded a large file in a single 1 Gigabit packet. Another drawback to large packets is that, if the packet is corrupted, the entire packet must be retransmitted; see 7.3.1 Error Rates and Packet Size. When a router or switch receives a packet, it (generally) reads in the entire packet before looking at the header to decide to what next node to forward it. This is known as store-and-forward, and introduces a forwarding delay equal to the time needed to read in the entire packet. For individual packets this forwarding delay is hard to avoid (though some switches do implement cut-through switching to begin forwarding a packet before it has fully arrived), but if one is sending a long train of packets then by keeping multiple packets en route at the same time one can essentially eliminate the significance of the forwarding delay; see 7.3 Packet Size. Total packet delay from sender to receiver is the sum of the following: Bandwidth delay , ie sending 1000 Bytes at 20 Bytes/millisecond will take 50 ms. This is a per-link delay. , ie sending 1000 Bytes at 20 Bytes/millisecond will take 50 ms. This is a per-link delay. Propagation delay due to the speed of light. For example, if you start sending a packet right now on a 5000-km cable across the US with a propagation speed of 200 m/sec (= 200 km/ms, about 2/3 the speed of light in vacuum), the first bit will not arrive at the destination until 25 ms later. The bandwidth delay then determines how much after that the entire packet will take to arrive. due to the speed of light. For example, if you start sending a packet right now on a 5000-km cable across the US with a propagation speed of 200 m/sec (= 200 km/ms, about 2/3 the speed of light in vacuum), the first bit will not arrive at the destination until 25 ms later. The bandwidth delay then determines how much after that the entire packet will take to arrive. Store-and-forward delay , equal to the sum of the bandwidth delays out of each router along the path , equal to the sum of the bandwidth delays out of each router along the path Queuing delay, or waiting in line at busy routers. At bad moments this can exceed 1 sec, though that is rare. Generally it is less than 10 ms and often is less than 1 ms. Queuing delay is the only delay component amenable to reduction through careful engineering. See 7.1 Packet Delay for more details. 1.9 LANs and Ethernet A local-area network, or LAN, is a system consisting of physical links that are, ultimately, serial lines common interfacing hardware connecting the hosts to the links protocols to make everything work together We will explicitly assume that every LAN node is able to communicate with every other LAN node. Sometimes this will require the cooperation of intermediate nodes acting as switches. Far and away the most common type of (wired) LAN is Ethernet, originally described in a 1976 paper by Metcalfe and Boggs [MB76]. Ethernets popularity is due to low cost more than anything else, though the primary reason Ethernet cost is low is that high demand has led to manufacturing economies of scale. The original Ethernet had a bandwidth of 10 Mbps (megabits per second; we will use lower-case b for bits and upper-case B for bytes), though nowadays most Ethernet operates at 100 Mbps and gigabit (1000 Mbps) Ethernet (and faster) is widely used in server rooms. (By comparison, as of this writing (2015) the data transfer rate to a typical faster hard disk is about 1000 Mbps.) Wireless (Wi-Fi) LANs are gaining popularity, and in many settings have supplanted wired Ethernet to end-users. Many early Ethernet installations were unswitched; each host simply tapped in to one long primary cable that wound through the building (or floor). In principle, two stations could then transmit at the same time, rendering the data unintelligible; this was called a collision. Ethernet has several design features intended to minimize the bandwidth wasted on collisions: stations, before transmitting, check to be sure the line is idle, they monitor the line while transmitting to detect collisions during the transmission, and, if a collision is detected, they execute a random backoff strategy to avoid an immediate recollision. See 2.1.5 The Slot Time and Collisions. While Ethernet collisions definitely reduce throughput, in the larger view they should perhaps be thought of as a part of a remarkably inexpensive shared-access mediation protocol. In unswitched Ethernets every packet is received by every host and it is up to the network card in each host to determine if the arriving packet is addressed to that host. It is almost always possible to configure the card to forward all arriving packets to the attached host; this poses a security threat and password sniffers that surreptitiously collected passwords via such eavesdropping used to be common. Password Sniffing In the fall of 1994 at Loyola University I remotely changed the root password on several CS-department unix machines at the other end of campus, using telnet. I told no one. Within two hours, someone else logged into one of these machines, using the new password, from a host in Europe. Password sniffing was the likely culprit. Two months later was the so-called Christmas Day Attack (18.3.1 ISNs and spoofing). One of the hosts used to launch this attack was Loyolas hacked apollo.it.luc.edu. It is unclear the degree to which password sniffing played a role in that exploit. Due to both privacy and efficiency concerns, almost all Ethernets today are fully switched; this ensures that each packet is delivered only to the host to which it is addressed. One advantage of switching is that it effectively eliminates most Ethernet collisions; while in principle it replaces them with a queuing issue, in practice Ethernet switch queues so seldom fill up that they are almost invisible even to network managers (unlike IP router queues). Switching also prevents host-based eavesdropping, though arguably a better solution to this problem is encryption. Perhaps the more significant tradeoff with switches, historically, was that Once Upon A Time they were expensive and unreliable; tapping directly into a common cable was dirt cheap. Ethernet addresses are six bytes long. Each Ethernet card (or network interface) is assigned a (supposedly) unique address at the time of manufacture; this address is burned into the cards ROM and is called the cards physical address or hardware address or MAC (Media Access Control) address. The first three bytes of the physical address have been assigned to the manufacturer; the subsequent three bytes are a serial number assigned by that manufacturer. By comparison, IP addresses are assigned administratively by the local site. The basic advantage of having addresses in hardware is that hosts automatically know their own addresses on startup; no manual configuration or server query is necessary. It is not unusual for a site to have a large number of identically configured workstations, for which all network differences derive ultimately from each workstations unique Ethernet address. The network interface continually monitors all arriving packets; if it sees any packet containing a destination address that matches its own physical address, it grabs the packet and forwards it to the attached CPU (via a CPU interrupt). Ethernet also has a designated broadcast address. A host sending to the broadcast address has its packet received by every other host on the network; if a switch receives a broadcast packet on one port, it forwards the packet out every other port. This broadcast mechanism allows host A to contact host B when A does not yet know Bs physical address; typical broadcast queries have forms such as Will the designated server please answer or (from the ARP protocol) will the host with the given IP address please tell me your physical address. Traffic addressed to a particular host that is, not broadcast is said to be unicast. Because Ethernet addresses are assigned by the hardware, knowing an address does not provide any direct indication of where that address is located on the network. In switched Ethernet, the switches must thus have a forwarding-table record for each individual Ethernet address on the network; for extremely large networks this ultimately becomes unwieldy. Consider the analogous situation with postal addresses: Ethernet is somewhat like attempting to deliver mail using social-security numbers as addresses, where each postal worker is provided with a large catalog listing each persons SSN together with their physical location. Real postal mail is, of course, addressed hierarchically using ever-more-precise specifiers: state, city, zipcode, street address, and name / room#. Ethernet, in other words, does not scale well to large sizes. Switched Ethernet works quite well, however, for networks with up to 10,000-100,000 nodes. Forwarding tables with size in that range are straightforward to manage. To forward packets correctly, switches must know where all active destination addresses in the LAN are located; traditional Ethernet switches do this by a passive learning algorithm. (IP routers, by comparison, use active protocols, and some newer Ethernet switches take the approach of 3.4 Software-Defined Networking.) Typically a host physical address is entered into a switchs forwarding table when a packet from that host is first received; the switch notes the packets arrival interface and source address and assumes that the same interface is to be used to deliver packets back to that sender. If a given destination address has not yet been seen, and thus is not in the forwarding table, Ethernet switches still have the backup delivery option of flooding: forwarding the packet to everyone by treating the destination address like the broadcast address, and allowing the host Ethernet cards to sort it out. Since this broadcast-like process is not generally used for more than one packet (after that, the switches will have learned the correct forwarding-table entries), the risks of excessive traffic and of eavesdropping are minimal. The host,interface forwarding table is often easier to think of as host,next_hop, where the next_hop node is whatever switch or host is at the immediate other end of the link connecting to the given interface. In a fully switched network where each link connects only two interfaces, the two perspectives are equivalent. 1.10 IP - Internet Protocol To solve the scaling problem with Ethernet, and to allow support for other types of LANs and point-to-point links as well, the Internet Protocol was developed. Perhaps the central issue in the design of IP was to support universal connectivity (everyone can connect to everyone else) in such a way as to allow scaling to enormous size (in 2013 there appear to be around ~109 nodes, although IP should work to 1010 nodes or more), without resulting in unmanageably large forwarding tables (currently the largest tables have about 300,000 entries.) In the early days, IP networks were considered to be internetworks of basic networks (LANs); nowadays users generally ignore LANs and think of the Internet as one large (virtual) network. To support universal connectivity, IP provides a global mechanism for addressing and routing, so that packets can actually be delivered from any host to any other host. IP addresses (for the most-common version 4, which we denote IPv4) are 4 bytes (32 bits), and are part of the IP header that generally follows the Ethernet header. The Ethernet header only stays with a packet for one hop; the IP header stays with the packet for its entire journey across the Internet. An essential feature of IPv4 (and IPv6) addresses is that they can be divided into a network part (a prefix) and a host part (the remainder). The legacy mechanism for designating the IPv4 network and host address portions was to make the division according to the first few bits: first few bits first byte network bits host bits name application 0 0-127 8 24 class A a few very large networks 10 128-191 16 16 class B institution-sized networks 110 192-223 24 8 class C sized for smaller entities For example, the original IP address allocation for Loyola University Chicago was 147.126.0.0, a class B. In binary, 147 is 10010011. IP addresses, unlike Ethernet addresses, are administratively assigned. Once upon a time, you would get your Class B network prefix from the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority, or IANA (they now delegate this task), and then you would in turn assign the host portion in a way that was appropriate for your local site. As a result of this administrative assignment, an IP address usually serves not just as an endpoint identifier but also as a locator, containing embedded location information (at least in the sense of location within the IP-address-assignment hierarchy, which may not be geographical). Ethernet addresses, by comparison, are endpoint identifiers but not locators. The Class A/B/C definition above was spelled out in 1981 in RFC 791, which introduced IP. Class D was added in 1986 by RFC 988; class D addresses must begin with the bits 1110. These addresses are for multicast, that is, sending an IP packet to every member of a set of recipients (ideally without actually transmitting it more than once on any one link). Nowadays the division into the network and host bits is dynamic, and can be made at different positions in the address at different levels of the network. For example, a small organization might receive a /27 address block (1/8 the size of a class-C /24) from its ISP, eg 200.1.130.96/27. The ISP routes to the organization based on this /27 prefix. At some higher level, however, routing might be based on the prefix 200.1.128/18; this might, for example, represent an address block assigned to the ISP (note that the first 18 bits of 200.1.130.x match 200.1.128; the first two bits of 128 and 130, taken as 8-bit quantities, are 10). The network/host division point is not carried within the IP header; routers negotiate this division point when they negotiate the next_hop forwarding information. We will return to this in 9.5 The Classless IP Delivery Algorithm. The network portion of an IP address is sometimes called the network number or network address or network prefix. As we shall see below, most forwarding decisions are made using only the network prefix. The network prefix is commonly denoted by setting the host bits to zero and ending the resultant address with a slash followed by the number of network bits in the address: eg 12.0.0.0/8 or 147.126.0.0/16. Note that 12.0.0.0/8 and 12.0.0.0/9 represent different things; in the latter, the second byte of any host address extending the network address is constrained to begin with a 0-bit. An anonymous block of IP addresses might be referred to only by the slash and following digit, eg we need a /22 block to accommodate all our customers. All hosts with the same network address (same network bits) are said to be on the same IP network and must be located together on the same LAN; as we shall see below, if two hosts share the same network address then they will assume they can reach each other directly via the underlying LAN, and if they cannot then connectivity fails. A consequence of this rule is that outside of the site only the network bits need to be looked at to route a packet to the site. Usually, all hosts (or more precisely all network interfaces) on the same physical LAN share the same network prefix and thus are part of the same IP network. Occasionally, however, one LAN is divided into multiple IP networks. Each individual LAN technology has a maximum packet size it supports; for example, Ethernet has a maximum packet size of about 1500 bytes but the once-competing Token Ring had a maximum of 4 kB. Today the world has largely standardized on Ethernet and almost entirely standardized on Ethernet packet-size limits, but this was not the case when IP was introduced and there was real concern that two hosts on separate large-packet networks might try to exchange packets too large for some small-packet intermediate network to carry. Therefore, in addition to routing and addressing, the decision was made that IP must also support fragmentation: the division of large packets into multiple smaller ones (in other contexts this may also be called segmentation). The IP approach is not very efficient, and IP hosts go to considerable lengths to avoid fragmentation. IP does require that packets of up to 576 bytes be supported, and so a common legacy strategy was for a host to limit a packet to at most 512 user-data bytes whenever the packet was to be sent via a router; packets addressed to another host on the same LAN could of course use a larger packet size. Despite its limited use, however, fragmentation is essential conceptually, in order for IP to be able to support large packets without knowing anything about the intervening networks. IP is a best effort system; there are no IP-layer acknowledgments or retransmissions. We ship the packet off, and hope it gets there. Most of the time, it does. Architecturally, this best-effort model represents what is known as connectionless networking: the IP layer does not maintain information about endpoint-to-endpoint connections, and simply forwards packets like a giant LAN. Responsibility for creating and maintaining connections is left for the next layer up, the TCP layer. Connectionless networking is not the only way to do things: the alternative could have been some form connection-oriented internetworking, in which routers do maintain state information about individual connections. Later, in 5.4 Virtual Circuits, we will examine how virtual-circuit networking can be used to implement a connection-oriented approach; virtual-circuit switching is the primary alternative to datagram switching. Connectionless (IP-style) and connection-oriented networking each have advantages. Connectionless networking is conceptually more reliable: if routers do not hold connection state, then they cannot lose connection state. The path taken by the packets in some higher-level connection can easily be dynamically rerouted. Finally, connectionless networking makes it hard for providers to bill by the connection; once upon a time (in the era of dollar-a-minute phone calls) this was a source of mild astonishment to many new users. (This was not always a given; the paper [CK74] considers, among other things, the possibility of per-packet accounting.) The primary advantage of connection-oriented networking, on the other hand, is that the routers are then much better positioned to accept reservations and to make quality-of-service guarantees. This remains something of a sore point in the current Internet: if you want to use Voice-over-IP, or VoIP, telephones, or if you want to engage in video conferencing, your packets will be treated by the Internet core just the same as if they were low-priority file transfers. There is no priority service option. The most common form of IP packet loss is router queue overflows, representing network congestion. Packet losses due to packet corruption are rare (eg less than one in 104; perhaps much less). But in a connectionless world a large number of hosts can simultaneously attempt to send traffic through one router, in which case queue overflows are hard to avoid. Although we will often assume, for simplicity, that routers have a fixed input queue size, the reality is often a little more complicated. See 21.5 Active Queue Management and 23 Queuing and Scheduling. 1.10.1 IP Forwarding IP routers use datagram forwarding, described in 1.4 Datagram Forwarding above, to deliver packets, but the destination values listed in the forwarding tables are network prefixes representing entire LANs instead of individual hosts. The goal of IP forwarding, then, becomes delivery to the correct LAN; a separate process is used to deliver to the final host once the final LAN has been reached. The entire point, in fact, of having a network/host division within IP addresses is so that routers need to list only the network prefixes of the destination addresses in their IP forwarding tables. This strategy is the key to IP scalability: it saves large amounts of forwarding-table space, it saves time as smaller tables allow faster lookup, and it saves the bandwidth and overhead that would be needed for routers to keep track of individual addresses. To get an idea of the forwarding-table space savings, there are currently (2013) around a billion hosts on the Internet, but only 300,000 or so networks listed in top-level forwarding tables. With IPs use of network prefixes as forwarding-table destinations, matching an actual packet address to a forwarding-table entry is no longer a matter of simple equality comparison; routers must compare appropriate prefixes. IP forwarding tables are sometimes also referred to as routing tables; in this book, however, we make at least a token effort to use forwarding to refer to the packet forwarding process, and routing to refer to mechanisms by which the forwarding tables are maintained and updated. (If we were to be completely consistent here, we would use the term forwarding loop rather than routing loop.) Now let us look at an example of how IP forwarding (or routing) works. We will assume that all network nodes are either hosts user machines, with a single network connection or routers, which do packet-forwarding only. Routers are not directly visible to users, and always have at least two different network interfaces representing different networks that the router is connecting. (Machines can be both hosts and routers, but this introduces complications.) Suppose A is the sending host, sending a packet to a destination host D. The IP header of the packet will contain Ds IP address in the destination address field (it will also contain As own address as the source address). The first step is for A to determine whether D is on the same LAN as itself or not; that is, whether D is local. This is done by looking at the network part of the destination address, which we will denote by D net . If this net address is the same as As (that is, if it is equal numerically to A net ), then A figures D is on the same LAN as itself, and can use direct LAN delivery. It looks up the appropriate physical address for D (probably with the ARP protocol, 10.2 Address Resolution Protocol: ARP), attaches a LAN header to the packet in front of the IP header, and sends the packet straight to D via the LAN. If, however, A net and D net do not match D is non-local then A looks up a router to use. Most ordinary hosts use only one router for all non-local packet deliveries, making this choice very simple. A then forwards the packet to the router, again using direct delivery over the LAN. The IP destination address in the packet remains D in this case, although the LAN destination address will be that of the router. When the router receives the packet, it strips off the LAN header but leaves the IP header with the IP destination address. It extracts the destination D, and then looks at D net . The router first checks to see if any of its network interfaces are on the same LAN as D; recall that the router connects to at least one additional network besides the one for A. If the answer is yes, then the router uses direct LAN delivery to the destination, as above. If, on the other hand, D net is not a LAN to which the router is connected directly, then the router consults its internal forwarding table. This consists of a list of networks each with an associated next_hop address. These net,next_hop tables compare with switched-Ethernets host,next_hop tables; the former type will be smaller because there are many fewer nets than hosts. The next_hop addresses in the table are chosen so that the router can always reach them via direct LAN delivery via one of its interfaces; generally they are other routers. The router looks up D net in the table, finds the next_hop address, and uses direct LAN delivery to get the packet to that next_hop machine. The packets IP header remains essentially unchanged, although the router most likely attaches an entirely new LAN header. The packet continues being forwarded like this, from router to router, until it finally arrives at a router that is connected to D net ; it is then delivered by that final router directly to D, using the LAN. To make this concrete, consider the following diagram: With Ethernet-style forwarding, R2 would have to maintain entries for each of A,B,C,D,E,F. With IP forwarding, R2 has just two entries to maintain in its forwarding table: 200.0.0/24 and 200.0.1/24. If A sends to D, at 200.0.1.37, it puts this address into the IP header, notes that 200.0.0 = 200.0.1, and thus concludes D is not a local delivery. A therefore sends the packet to its router R1, using LAN delivery. R1 looks up the destination network 200.0.1 in its forwarding table and forwards the packet to R2, which in turn forwards it to R3. R3 now sees that it is connected directly to the destination network 200.0.1, and delivers the packet via the LAN to D, by looking up Ds physical address. In this diagram, IP addresses for the ends of the R1R2 and R2R3 links are not shown. They could be assigned global IP addresses, but they could also use private IP addresses. Assuming these links are point-to-point links, they might not actually need IP addresses at all; we return to this in 9.8 Unnumbered Interfaces. One can think of the network-prefix bits as analogous to the zip code on postal mail, and the host bits as analogous to the street address. The internal parts of the post office get a letter to the right zip code, and then an individual letter carrier (the LAN) gets it to the right address. Alternatively, one can think of the network bits as like the area code of a phone number, and the host bits as like the rest of the digits. Newer protocols that support different net/host division points at different places in the network sometimes called hierarchical routing allow support for addressing schemes that correspond to, say, zip/street/user, or areacode/exchange/subscriber. The Invertebrate Internet The backbone is not as essential as it once was. Once Upon A Time, all traffic between different providers passed through the backbone. The legacy backbone still exists, but today it is also common for traffic from large providers such as Google to take a backbone-free path; such providers connect (or peer) directly with large residential ISPs such as Comcast. Google refers to this as their Edge Network; see peering.google.com and also 15.7.1 MED values and traffic engineering. We will refer to the Internet backbone as those IP routers that specialize in large-scale routing on the commercial Internet, and which generally have forwarding-table entries covering all public IP addresses; note that this is essentially a business definition rather than a technical one. We can revise the table-size claim of the previous paragraph to state that, while there are many private IP networks, there are about 800,000 separate network prefixes (as of 2019) visible to the backbone. (In 2012, the year this book was started, there were about 400,000 prefixes.) A forwarding table of 800,000 entries is quite feasible; a table a hundred times larger is not, let alone a thousand times larger. For a graph of the growth in network prefixes / forwarding-table entries, see 15.5 BGP Table Size. IP routers at non-backbone sites generally know all locally assigned network prefixes, eg 200.0.0/24 and 200.0.1/24 above. If a destination does not match any locally assigned network prefix, the packet needs to be routed out into the Internet at large; for typical non-backbone sites this almost always this means the packet is sent to the ISP that provides Internet connectivity. Generally the local routers will contain a catchall default entry covering all nonlocal networks; this means that the router needs an explicit entry only for locally assigned networks. This greatly reduces the forwarding-table size. The Internet backbone can be approximately described, in fact, as those routers that do not have a default entry. For most purposes, the Internet can be seen as a combination of end-user LANs together with point-to-point links joining these LANs to the backbone, point-to-point links also tie the backbone together. Both LANs and point-to-point links appear in the diagram above. Just how routers build their destnet,next_hop forwarding tables is a major topic itself, which we cover in 13 Routing-Update Algorithms. Unlike Ethernet, IP routers do not have a flooding delivery mechanism as a fallback, so the tables must be constructed in advance. (There is a limited form of IP broadcast, but it is basically intended for reaching the local LAN only, and does not help at all with delivery in the event that the destination network is unknown.) Most forwarding-table-construction algorithms used on a set of routers under common management fall into either the distance-vector or the link-state category; these are described in 13 Routing-Update Algorithms. Routers not under common management that is, neighboring routers belonging to different organizations exchange information through the Border Gateway Protocol, BGP (14 Large-Scale IP Routing). BGP allows routing decisions to be based on a fusion of technical information (which sites are reachable at all, and through where) together with policy information representing legal or commercial agreements: which outside routers are preferred, whose traffic an ISP will carry even if it isnt to one of the ISPs customers, etc. Most common residential routers involve network address translation in addition to packet forwarding. See 9.7 Network Address Translation. 1.10.2 The Future of IPv4 As mentioned earlier, allocation of blocks of IP addresses is the responsibility of the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority. IANA long ago delegated the job of allocating network prefixes to individual sites; they limited themselves to handing out /8 blocks (class A blocks) to the five regional registries, which are ARIN North America RIPE Europe, the Middle East and parts of Asia APNIC East Asia and the Pacific AfriNIC most of Africa LACNIC Central and South America As of the end of January 2011, the IANA finally ran out of /8 blocks. There is a table at http://www.iana.org/assignments/ipv4-address-space/ipv4-address-space.xml of all IANA assignments of /8 blocks; examination of the table shows all have now been allocated. In September 2015, ARIN ran out of its pool of IPv4 addresses. Most of ARINs customers are ISPs, which can now obtain new IPv4 addresses only by buying unused address blocks from other organizations. A few months after the IANA pool ran out in 2011, Microsoft purchased 666,624 IP addresses (2604 Class-C blocks) in a Nortel bankruptcy auction for $7.5 million. Three years later, IP-address prices fell to half that, but, by 2019, had climbed to the $20-and-up range. In that year Amazon bought a 4-million-address block (44.0.0.0/10) for $108 million, or $27/address. It is possible that the market for IPv4 address blocks will continue to develop; alternatively, this turn of events may accelerate implementation of IPv6, which has plentiful 128-bit addresses. An IPv4 address price in the range of $20-30 is unlikely to have much impact in residential Internet access, where annual connection fees are often $600. Large organizations use NAT (9.7 Network Address Translation) extensively, leading to the need for only a small number of globally visible addresses. The IPv4 address shortage does not even seem to have affected wireless networking. It does, however, lead to inefficient routing tables, as sites that might once have had a single /17 address block and thus a single backbone forwarding-table entry might now be spread over more than a hundred /24 blocks and concomitant forwarding entries. 1.11 DNS IP addresses are hard to remember (nearly impossible in IPv6). The domain name system, or DNS (10.1 DNS), comes to the rescue by creating a way to convert hierarchical text names to IP addresses. Thus, for example, one can type www.luc.edu instead of 147.126.1.230. Virtually all Internet software uses the same basic library calls to convert DNS names to actual addresses. One thing DNS makes possible is changing a websites IP address while leaving the name alone. This allows moving a site to a new provider, for example, without requiring users to learn anything new. It is also possible to have several different DNS names resolve to the same IP address, and through some modest trickery have the http (web) server at that IP address handle the different DNS names as completely different websites. DNS is hierarchical and distributed. In looking up cs.luc.edu four different DNS servers may be queried: for the so-called DNS root zone, for edu , for luc.edu and for cs.luc.edu . Searching a hierarchy can be cumbersome, so DNS search results are normally cached locally. If a name is not found in the cache, the lookup may take a couple seconds. The DNS hierarchy need have nothing to do with the IP-address hierarchy. 1.12 Transport The IP layer gets packets from one node to another, but it is not well-suited to transport. First, IP routing is a best-effort mechanism, which means packets can and do get lost sometimes. Additionally, data that does arrive can arrive out of order. Finally, IP only supports sending to a specific host; normally, one wants to send to a given application running on that host. Email and web traffic, or two different web sessions, should not be commingled! The Transport layer is the layer above the IP layer that handles these sorts of issues, often by creating some sort of connection abstraction. Far and away the most popular mechanism in the Transport layer is the Transmission Control Protocol, or TCP. TCP extends IP with the following features: reliability : TCP numbers each packet, and keeps track of which are lost and retransmits them after a timeout. It holds early-arriving out-of-order packets for delivery at the correct time. Every arriving data packet is acknowledged by the receiver; timeout and retransmission occurs when an acknowledgment packet isnt received by the sender within a given time. : TCP numbers each packet, and keeps track of which are lost and retransmits them after a timeout. It holds early-arriving out-of-order packets for delivery at the correct time. Every arriving data packet is acknowledged by the receiver; timeout and retransmission occurs when an acknowledgment packet isnt received by the sender within a given time. connection-orientation : Once a TCP connection is made, an application sends data simply by writing to that connection. No further application-level addressing is needed. TCP connections are managed by the operating-system kernel, not by the application. : Once a TCP connection is made, an application sends data simply by writing to that connection. No further application-level addressing is needed. TCP connections are managed by the operating-system kernel, not by the application. stream-orientation : An application using TCP can write 1 byte at a time, or 100 kB at a time; TCP will buffer and/or divide up the data into appropriate sized packets. : An application using TCP can write 1 byte at a time, or 100 kB at a time; TCP will buffer and/or divide up the data into appropriate sized packets. port numbers : these provide a way to specify the receiving application for the data, and also to identify the sending application. : these provide a way to specify the receiving application for the data, and also to identify the sending application. throughput management: TCP attempts to maximize throughput, while at the same time not contributing unnecessarily to network congestion. TCP endpoints are of the form host,port; these pairs are known as socket addresses, or sometimes as just sockets though the latter refers more properly to the operating-system objects that receive the data sent to the socket addresses. Servers (or, more precisely, server applications) listen for connections to sockets they have opened; the client is then any endpoint that initiates a connection to a server. When you enter a host name in a web browser, it opens a TCP connection to the servers port 80 (the standard web-traffic port), that is, to the server socket with socket-address server,80. If you have several browser tabs open, each might connect to the same server socket, but the connections are distinguishable by virtue of using separate ports (and thus having separate socket addresses) on the client end (that is, your end). A busy server may have thousands of connections to its port 80 (the web port) and hundreds of connections to port 25 (the email port). Web and email traffic are kept separate by virtue of the different ports used. All those clients to the same port, though, are kept separate because each comes from a unique host,port pair. A TCP connection is determined by the host,port socket address at each end; traffic on different connections does not intermingle. That is, there may be multiple independent connections to www.luc.edu,80. This is somewhat analogous to certain business telephone numbers of the operators are standing by type, which support multiple callers at the same time to the same toll-free number. Each call to that number is answered by a different operator (corresponding to a different cpu process), and different calls do not overhear each other. TCP uses the sliding-windows algorithm, 8 Abstract Sliding Windows, to keep multiple packets en route at any one time. The window size represents the number of packets simultaneously in transit (TCP actually keeps track of the window size in bytes, but packets are easier to visualize). If the window size is 10 packets, for example, then at any one time 10 packets are in transit (perhaps 5 data packets and 5 returning acknowledgments). Assuming no packets are lost, then as each acknowledgment arrives the window slides forward by one packet. The data packet 10 packets ahead is then sent, to maintain a total of 10 packets on the wire. For example, consider the moment when the ten packets 20-29 are in transit. When ACK[20] is received, the number of packets outstanding drops to 9 (packets 21-29). To keep 10 packets in flight, Data[30] is sent. When ACK[21] is received, Data[31] is sent, and so on. Sliding windows minimizes the effect of store-and-forward delays, and propagation delays, as these then only count once for the entire windowful and not once per packet. Sliding windows also provides an automatic, if partial, brake on congestion: the queue at any switch or router along the way cannot exceed the window size. In this it compares favorably with constant-rate transmission, which, if the available bandwidth falls below the transmission rate, always leads to overflowing queues and to a significant percentage of dropped packets. Of course, if the window size is too large, a sliding-windows sender may also experience dropped packets. The ideal window size, at least from a throughput perspective, is such that it takes one round-trip time to send an entire window, so that the next ACK will always be arriving just as the sender has finished transmitting the window. Determining this ideal size, however, is difficult; for one thing, the ideal size varies with network load. As a result, TCP approximates the ideal size. The most common TCP strategy that of so-called TCP Reno is that the window size is slowly raised until packet loss occurs, which TCP takes as a sign that it has reached the limit of available network resources. At that point the window size is reduced to half its previous value, and the slow climb resumes. The effect is a sawtooth graph of window size with time, which oscillates (more or less) around the optimal window size. For an idealized sawtooth graph, see 19.1.1 The Somewhat-Steady State; for some real (simulation-created) sawtooth graphs see 31.4.1 Some TCP Reno cwnd graphs. While this window-size-optimization strategy has its roots in attempting to maximize the available bandwidth, it also has the effect of greatly limiting the number of packet-loss events. As a result, TCP has come to be the Internet protocol charged with reducing (or at least managing) congestion on the Internet, and relatedly with ensuring fairness of bandwidth allocations to competing connections. Core Internet routers at least in the classical case essentially have no role in enforcing congestion or fairness restrictions at all. The Internet, in other words, places responsibility for congestion avoidance cooperatively into the hands of end users. While cheating is possible, this cooperative approach has worked remarkably well. While TCP is ubiquitous, the real-time performance of TCP is not always consistent: if a packet is lost, the receiving TCP host will not turn over anything further to the receiving application until the lost packet has been retransmitted successfully; this is often called head-of-line blocking. This is a serious problem for sound and video applications, which can discretely handle modest losses but which have much more difficulty with sudden large delays. A few lost packets ideally should mean just a few brief voice dropouts (pretty common on cell phones) or flicker/snow on the video screen (or just reuse of the previous frame); both of these are better than pausing completely. The basic alternative to TCP is known as UDP, for User Datagram Protocol. UDP, like TCP, provides port numbers to support delivery to multiple endpoints within the receiving host, in effect to a specific process on the host. As with TCP, a UDP socket consists of a host,port pair. UDP also includes, like TCP, a checksum over the data. However, UDP omits the other TCP features: there is no connection setup, no lost-packet detection, no automatic timeout/retransmission, and the application must manage its own packetization. This simplicity should not be seen as all negative: the absence of connection setup means data transmission can get started faster, and the absence of lost-packet detection means there is no head-of-line blocking. See 16 UDP Transport. The Real-time Transport Protocol, or RTP, sits above UDP and adds some additional support for voice and video applications. 1.12.1 Transport Communications Patterns The two classic traffic patterns for Internet communication are these: Interactive or bursty communications such as via ssh or telnet, with long idle times between short bursts Bulk file transfers, such as downloading a web page TCP handles both of these well, although its congestion-management features apply only when a large amount of data is in transit at once. Web browsing is something of a hybrid; over time, there is usually considerable burstiness, but individual pages now often exceed 1 MB. To the above we might add request/reply operations, eg to query a database or to make DNS requests. TCP is widely used here as well, though most DNS traffic still uses UDP. There are periodic calls for a new protocol specifically addressing this pattern, though at this point the use of TCP is well established. If a sequence of request/reply operations is envisioned, a single TCP connection makes excellent sense, as the connection-setup overhead is minimal by comparison. See also 16.5 Remote Procedure Call (RPC) and 18.15.2 SCTP. This century has seen an explosion in streaming video (25.3.2 Streaming Video), in lengths from a few minutes to a few hours. Streaming radio stations might be left playing indefinitely. TCP generally works well here, assuming the receiver can get, say, a minute ahead, buffering the video that has been received but not yet viewed. That way, if there is a dip in throughput due to congestion, the receiver has time to recover. Buffering works a little less well for streaming radio, as the listener doesnt want to get too far behind, though ten seconds is reasonable. Fortunately, audio bandwidth is smaller. Another issue with streaming video is the bandwidth demand. Most streaming-video services attempt to estimate the available throughput, and then adapt to that throughput by changing the video resolution (25.3 Real-time Traffic). Typically, video streaming operates on a start/stop basis: the sender pauses when the receivers playback buffer is full, and resumes when the playback buffer drops below a certain threshold. If the video (or, for that matter, voice audio) is interactive, there is much less opportunity for stream buffering. If someone asks a simple question on an Internet telephone call, they generally want an answer more or less immediately; they do not expect to wait for the answer to make it through the other partys stream buffer. 200 ms of buffering is noticeable. Here we enter the realm of genuine real-time traffic (25.3 Real-time Traffic). UDP is often used to avoid head-of-line blocking. Lower bandwidth helps; voice-grade communications traditionally need only 8 kB/sec, less if compression is used. On the other hand, there may be constraints on the variation in delivery time (known as jitter; see 25.11.3 RTP Control Protocol for a specific numeric interpretation). Interactive video, with its much higher bandwidth requirements, is more difficult; fortunately, users seem to tolerate the common pauses and freezes. Within the Transport layer, essentially all network connections involve a client and a server. Often this pattern is repeated at the Application layer as well: the client contacts the server and initiates a login session, or browses some web pages, or watches a movie. Sometimes, however, Application-layer exchanges fit the peer-to-peer model better, in which the two endpoints are more-or-less co-equals. Some examples include Internet telephony: there is no benefit in designating the party who place the call as the client Message passing in a CPU cluster, often using 16.5 Remote Procedure Call (RPC) The routing-communication protocols of 13 Routing-Update Algorithms . When router A reports to router B we might call A the client, but over time, as A and B report to one another repeatedly, the peer-to-peer model makes more sense. . When router A reports to router B we might call A the client, but over time, as A and B report to one another repeatedly, the peer-to-peer model makes more sense. So-called peer-to-peer file-sharing, where individuals exchange files with other individuals (and as opposed to cloud-based file-sharing in which the cloud is the server). RFC 5694 contains additional discussion of peer-to-peer patterns. 1.12.2 Content-Distribution Networks Sites with an extremely large volume of content to distribute often turn to a specialized communication pattern called a content-distribution network or CDN. To reduce the amount of long-distance traffic, or to reduce the round-trip time, a site replicates its content at multiple datacenters (also called Points of Presence (PoPs), nodes, access points or edge servers). When a user makes a request (eg for a web page or a video), the request is routed to the nearest (or approximately nearest) datacenter, and the content is delivered from there. CDN Mapping For a geographical map of the servers in the NetFlix CDN as of 2016, see [BCTCU16]. The map was created solely through end-user measurements. Most of the servers are in North and South America and Europe. Large web pages typically contain both static content and also individualized dynamic content. On a typical Facebook page, for example, the videos and javascript might be considered static, while the individual wall posts might be considered dynamic. The CDN may cache all or most of the static content at each of its edge servers, leaving the dynamic content to come from a centralized server. Alternatively, the dynamic content may be replicated at each CDN edge node as well, though this introduces some real-time coordination issues. If dynamic content is not replicated, the CDN may include private high-speed links between its nodes, allowing for rapid low-congestion delivery to any node. Alternatively, CDN nodes may simply communicate using the public Internet. Finally, the CDN may (or may not) be configured to support fast interactive traffic between nodes, eg teleconferencing traffic, as is outlined in 25.6.1 A CDN Alternative to IntServ. Organizations can create their own CDNs, but often turn to specialized CDN providers, who often combine their CDN services with website-hosting services. In principle, all that is needed to create a CDN is a multiplicity of datacenters, each with its own connection to the Internet; private links between datacenters are also common. In practice, many CDN providers also try to build direct connections with the ISPs that serve their customers; the Google Edge Network above does this. This can improve performance and reduce traffic costs; we will return to this in 15.7.1 MED values and traffic engineering. Finding the edge server that is closest to a given user is a tricky issue. There are three techniques in common use. In the first, the edge servers are all given different IP addresses, and DNS is configured to have users receive the IP address of the closest edge server, 10.1 DNS. In the second, each edge server has the same IP address, and anycast routing is used to route traffic from the user to the closest edge server, 15.8 BGP and Anycast. Finally, for HTTP applications a centralized server can look up the approximate location of the user, and then redirect the web page to the closest edge server. 1.13 Firewalls One problem with having a program on your machine listening on an open TCP port is that someone may connect and then, using some flaw in the software on your end, do something malicious to your machine. Damage can range from the unintended downloading of personal data to compromise and takeover of your entire machine, making it a distributor of viruses and worms or a steppingstone in later break-ins of other machines. A strategy known as buffer overflow (28.2 Stack Buffer Overflow) has been the basis for a great many total-compromise attacks. The idea is to identify a point in a server program where it fills a memory buffer with network-supplied data without careful length checking; almost any call to the C library function gets(buf) will suffice. The attacker then crafts an oversized input string which, when read by the server and stored in memory, overflows the buffer and overwrites subsequent portions of memory, typically containing the stack-frame pointers. The usual goal is to arrange things so that when the server reaches the end of the currently executing function, control is returned not to the calling function but instead to the attackers own payload code located within the string. A firewall is a mechanism to block connections deemed potentially risky, eg those originating from outside the site. Generally ordinary workstations do not ever need to accept connections from the Internet; client machines instead initiate connections to (better-protected) servers. So blocking incoming connections works reasonably well; when necessary (eg for games) certain ports can be selectively unblocked. The original firewalls were built into routers. Incoming traffic to servers was often blocked unless it was sent to one of a modest number of open ports; for non-servers, typically all inbound connections were blocked. This allowed internal machines to operate reasonably safely, though being unable to accept incoming connections is sometimes inconvenient. Nowadays per-host firewalls in addition to router-based firewalls are common: you can configure your workstation not to accept inbound connections to most (or all) ports regardless of whether software on the workstation requests such a connection. Outbound connections can, in many cases, also be prevented. The typical home router implements something called network-address translation (9.7 Network Address Translation), which, in addition to conserving IPv4 addresses, also provides firewall protection. 1.14 Some Useful Utilities There exists a great variety of useful programs for probing and diagnosing networks. Here we list a few of the simpler, more common and available ones; some of these are addressed in more detail in subsequent chapters. Some of these, like ping , are generally present by default; others will have to be installed from somewhere. ping Ping is useful to determine if another machine is accessible, eg ping www . cs . luc . edu ping 147.126.1.230 See 10.4 Internet Control Message Protocol for how it works. Sometimes ping fails because the necessary packets are blocked by a firewall. ifconfig, ipconfig, ip To find your own IP address you can use ipconfig on Windows, ifconfig on Linux and Macintosh systems, or the newer ip addr list on Linux. The output generally lists all active interfaces but can be restricted to selected interfaces if desired. The ip command in particular can do many other things as well. The Windows command netsh interface ip show config also provides IP addresses. nslookup, dig and host This trio of programs, all developed by the Internet Systems Consortium, are all used for DNS lookups. They differ in convenience and options. The oldest is nslookup , the one with the most options (by a rather wide margin) is dig , and the newest and arguably most convenient for normal usage is host . nslookup intronetworks . cs . luc . edu Non - authoritative answer : Name : intronetworks . cs . luc . edu Address : 162.216.18.28 dig intronetworks . cs . luc . edu ... ;; ANSWER SECTION : intronetworks . cs . luc . edu . 86400 IN A 162.216.18.28 ... host intronetworks . cs . luc . edu intronetworks . cs . luc . edu has address 162.216.18.28 intronetworks . cs . luc . edu has IPv6 address 2600 : 3 c03 :: f03c : 91 ff : fe69 : f438 See 10.1.2 nslookup and dig. traceroute This lists the route from you to a remote host: traceroute intronetworks . cs . luc . edu 1 147.126.65.1 ( 147.126.65.1 ) 0.751 ms 0.753 ms 0.783 ms 2 147.126.95.54 ( 147.126.95.54 ) 1.319 ms 1.286 ms 1.253 ms 3 12.31.132.169 ( 12.31.132.169 ) 1.225 ms 1.231 ms 1.193 ms 4 cr83 . cgcil . ip . att . net ( 12.123.7.46 ) 4.983 ms cr84 . cgcil . ip . att . net ( 12.123.7.170 ) 4.825 ms 4.812 ms 5 cr83 . cgcil . ip . att . net ( 12.123.7.46 ) 4.926 ms 4.904 ms 4.888 ms 6 cr1 . cgcil . ip . att . net ( 12.122.99.33 ) 5.043 ms cr2 . cgcil . ip . att . net ( 12.122.132.109 ) 5.343 ms 5.317 ms 7 gar13 . cgcil . ip . att . net ( 12.122.132.121 ) 3.879 ms 18.347 ms ggr4 . cgcil . ip . att . net ( 12.122.133.33 ) 2.987 ms 8 chi - b21 - link . telia . net ( 213.248.87.253 ) 2.344 ms 2.305 ms 2.409 ms 9 nyk - bb2 - link . telia . net ( 80.91.248.197 ) 24.065 ms nyk - bb1 - link . telia . net ( 213.155.136.70 ) 24.986 ms nyk - bb2 - link . telia . net ( 62.115.137.58 ) 23.158 ms 10 nyk - b3 - link . telia . net ( 62.115.112.255 ) 23.557 ms 23.548 ms nyk - b3 - link . telia . net ( 80.91.248.178 ) 24.510 ms 11 netaccess - tic - 133837 - nyk - b3 . c . telia . net ( 213.248.99.90 ) 23.957 ms 24.382 ms 24.164 ms 12 0.e1 - 4. tbr1 . mmu . nac . net ( 209.123.10.101 ) 24.922 ms 24.737 ms 24.754 ms 13 207.99.53.42 ( 207.99.53.42 ) 24.024 ms 24.249 ms 23.924 ms The last router (and intronetworks.cs.luc.edu itself) dont respond to the traceroute packets, so the list is not quite complete. The Windows tracert utility is functionally equivalent. See 10.4.1 Traceroute and Time Exceeded for further information. Traceroute sends, by default, three probes for each router. Sometimes the responses do not all come back from the same router, as happened above at routers 4, 6, 7, 9 and 10. Router 9 sent back three distinct responses. On Linux systems the mtr command may be available as an alternative to traceroute; it repeats the traceroute at one-second intervals and generates cumulative statistics. route and netstat The commands route , route print (Windows), ip route show (Linux), and netstat -r (all systems) display the hosts local IP forwarding table. For workstations not acting as routers, this includes the route to the default router and, usually, not much else. The default route is sometimes listed as destination 0.0.0.0 with netmask 0.0.0.0 (equivalent to 0.0.0.0/0). The command netstat -a shows the existing TCP connections and open UDP sockets. netcat The netcat program, often called nc , allows the user to create TCP or UDP connections and send lines of text back and forth. It is seldom included by default. See 16.1.4 netcat and 17.6.2 netcat again. WireShark This is a convenient combination of packet capture and packet analysis, from wireshark.org. See 17.4 TCP and WireShark and 12.4 Using IPv6 and IPv4 Together for examples. WireShark was originally named Etherreal. An earlier command-line-only packet-capture program is tcpdump, though WireShark has greatly expanded support for packet-format decoding. Both WireShark and tcpdump support both live packet capture and reading from .pcap (packet capture) and .pcapng (next generation) files. WireShark is the only non-command-line program listed here. It is sometimes desired to monitor packets on a remote system. If X-windows is involved (eg on Linux), this can be done by logging in from ones local system using ssh -X , which enables X-windows forwarding, and then starting wireshark (or perhaps sudo wireshark ) from the command line. Other alternatives include tcpdump and tshark; the latter is part of the WireShark distribution and supports the same packet-decoding facilities as WireShark. Finally, there is termshark, a frontend for tshark that offers a terminal-based interface reasonably similar to WireSharks graphical interface. 1.15 IETF and OSI The Internet protocols discussed above are defined by the Internet Engineering Task Force, or IETF (under the aegis of the Internet Architecture Board, or IAB, in turn under the aegis of the Internet Society, ISOC). The IETF publishes Request For Comment or RFC documents that contain all the formal Internet standards; these are available at http://www.ietf.org/rfc.html (note that, by the time a document appears here, the actual comment-requesting period is generally long since closed). The five-layer model is closely associated with the IETF, though is not an official standard. RFC standards sometimes allow modest flexibility. With this in mind, RFC 2119 declares official understandings for the words MUST and SHOULD. A feature labeled with MUST is an absolute requirement for the specification, while the term SHOULD is used when there may exist valid reasons in particular circumstances to ignore a particular item, but the full implications must be understood and carefully weighed before choosing a different course. The original ARPANET network was developed by the US governments Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, or DARPA; it went online in 1969. The National Science Foundation began NSFNet in 1986; this largely replaced ARPANET. In 1991, operation of the NSFNet backbone was turned over to ANSNet, a private corporation. The ISOC was founded in 1992 as the NSF continued to retreat from the networking business. Hallmarks of the IETF design approach were David Clarks declaration We reject: kings, presidents and voting. We believe in: rough consensus and running code. and RFC Editor Jon Postels Robustness Principle, here stated in its RFC 761/RFC 793 form: TCP implementations should follow a general principle of robustness: be conservative in what you do, be liberal in what you accept from others. Postels aphorism is often shortened to be liberal in what you accept, and conservative in what you send. As such, it has come in for occasional criticism in recent years with regard to cryptographic protocols, for which lax enforcement can lead to security vulnerabilities. To be fair, however, Postel wrote this in an era when protocol specifications sometimes failed to fully spell out the rules for every possible situation, and too-strict implementations sometimes failed to interoperate. Just what should happen if a TCP packet arrives with the SYN bit set, for creating a new connection, and also the FIN bit, for terminating that connection? However, TCP specifications today are generally much more complete, and cryptographic protocols even moreso. One way to read Postels rule is that protocol implementations should be as strict as necessary, but no stricter. There is a persistent though false notion that the distributed-routing architecture of IP was due to a US Department of Defense mandate that the original ARPAnet be built to survive a nuclear attack. In fact, the developers of IP seemed unconcerned with this. However, Paul Baran did write, in his 1962 paper outlining the concept of packet switching, that If [the number of stations] is made sufficiently large, it can be shown that highly survivable system structures can be built even in the thermonuclear era. In 1977 the International Organization for Standardization, or ISO, founded the Open Systems Interconnection project, or OSI, a process for creation of new network standards. OSI represented an attempt at the creation of networking standards independent of any individual government. The OSI project is today perhaps best known for its seven-layer networking model: between Transport and Application were inserted the Session and Presentation layers. The Session layer was to handle sessions between applications (including the graceful closing of Transport-layer connections, something included in TCP, and the re-establishment of broken Transport-layer connections, which TCP could sorely use), and the Presentation layer was to handle things like defining universal data formats (eg for binary numeric data, or for non-ASCII character sets), and eventually came to include compression and encryption as well. Data presentation and session management are important concepts, but in many cases it has not proved necessary, or even particularly useful, to make them into true layers. The layer approach has been very helpful in organizing networking software into separate sections, but is hard to define precisely. One approach is to declare that a layer should communicate directly only with the layers immediately above and below it. The application passes its data to the Transport layer to receive the Transport header, which passes the data to the IP layer to receive the IP header, and on to the LAN layer. Each layer can be seen as an encapsulated software object, or module, by the layer above, and each layer in turn encapsulates the packet from its parent layer by adding a new header. This is mostly true for the Transport, IP and LAN layers, but there are irregularities: the transport-layer checksum, for example, needs information from the IP layer, and may in fact end up being calculated at the LAN layer (16.1.3.2 UDP and IP addresses and 17.5 TCP Offloading). Even allowing for these kinds of irregularities, however, it is hard to justify full-fledged layer status for the Session and Presentation actions. What often happens is that the Application layer manages its own Transport connections, and is responsible for reading and writing data directly from and to the Transport layer. The application then uses conventional libraries for Presentation actions such as encryption, compression and format translation, and for Session actions such as handling broken Transport connections and multiplexing streams of data over a single Transport connection. Version 2 of the HTTP protocol, for example, contains a subprotocol for managing multiple streams; this is generally regarded as part of the Application layer, if for no other reason than that it is not available to any other application. An opposing view is that it is possible to view the SSL/TLS transport-encryption service, 29.5.2 TLS, as an example of a true Presentation layer. Applications generally read and write data directly to the SSL/TLS endpoint, which in turn mostly encapsulates (as a software module) the underlying TCP connection. The encapsulation is incomplete, though, in that SSL/TLS applications generally are responsible for creating their own Transport-layer (TCP) connections; see 29.5.3 A TLS Programming Example and the note at the end of 29.5.3.2 TLSserver. In the end, while the seven-layer model is reasonably popular, from a software-architecture standpoint those two extra layers arent really in the same league as those of the five-layer model. OSI has its own version of IP and TCP. The IP equivalent is CLNP, the ConnectionLess Network Protocol, although OSI also defines a connection-oriented protocol CMNS. The TCP equivalent is TP4; OSI also defines TP0 through TP3 but those are for connection-oriented networks. It seems clear that the primary reasons the OSI protocols failed in the marketplace were their ponderous bureaucracy for protocol management, their principle that protocols be completed before implementation began, and their insistence on rigid adherence to the specifications to the point of non-interoperability; indeed, Postels aphorism above may have been intended as a response to this last point. In contrast, the IETF had (and still has) a two working implementations rule for a protocol to become a Draft Standard. From RFC 2026: A specification from which at least two independent and interoperable implementations from different code bases have been developed, and for which sufficient successful operational experience has been obtained, may be elevated to the Draft Standard level. [emphasis added] This rule has often facilitated the discovery of protocol design weaknesses early enough that the problems could be fixed. The OSI approach is a striking failure for the waterfall design model, when competing with the IETFs cyclic prototyping model. However, it is worth noting that the IETF has similarly been unable to keep up with rapid changes in html, particularly at the browser end; the OSI mistakes were mostly evident only in retrospect. Trying to fit protocols into specific layers is often both futile and irrelevant. By one perspective, the Real-Time Protocol RTP lives at the Transport layer, but just above the UDP layer; others have put RTP into the Application layer. Parts of the RTP protocol resemble the Session and Presentation layers. A key component of the IP protocol is the set of various router-update protocols; some of these freely use higher-level layers. Similarly, tunneling might be considered to be a Link-layer protocol, but tunnels are often created and maintained at the Application layer. A sometimes-more-successful approach to understanding layers is to view them instead as parts of a protocol graph. Thus, in the following diagram we have two protocol sublayers within the transport layer (UDP and RTP), and one protocol (ARP) not easily assigned to a layer. 1.16 Berkeley Unix Though not officially tied to the IETF, the Berkeley Unix releases became de facto reference implementations for most of the TCP/IP protocols. 4.1BSD (BSD for Berkeley Software Distribution) was released in 1981, 4.2BSD in 1983, 4.3BSD in 1986, 4.3BSD-Tahoe in 1988, 4.3BSD-Reno in 1990, and 4.4BSD in 1994. Descendants today include FreeBSD, OpenBSD and NetBSD. The TCP implementations TCP Tahoe and TCP Reno (19 TCP Reno and Congestion Management) took their names from the corresponding 4.3BSD releases. 1.17 Epilog This completes our tour of the basics. In the remaining chapters we will expand on the material here. UPDATED: 10.30pm Taoiseach Micheal Martin has addressed the nation following the Government decision to implement Level Three restrictions to curb the spread of Covid-19 until October 27th. Mr Martin said the Government had detailed discussions surrounding NPHET's recommendation to move the country immediately to Level Five restrictions, with the impact of this sudden move without the "potential of other levels of restrictions" first being realised considered. "The potential implications of such a move are severe and very different from those we faced earlier this year," Mr Martin said of a full lockdown, mentioning the potential loss of hundreds of thousands of jobs and the difficulty of dealing with non-Covid health concerns. If we all act now, we can stop the need to go forward in introducing further Level Four and Level Five restrictions. Advertisement It was still essential that steps be taken, and taken now, Mr Martin said. There had been a significant and serious rise in the number of cases of the virus, which remains deadly and one that can cause lasting harm even to those who survive it, he said. Due to this, the Taoiseach said that from tomorrow midnight, all parts of the country would move to Level Three of the Government's plan for living with the virus for a period of three weeks. Mr Martin said that the enforcement and implementation of measures would be more closely monitored as part of a two-prong approach to stepping up restrictions. "The road ahead will continue to have many turns," he said. "If we all act now, we can stop the need to go forward in introducing further Level Four and Level Five restrictions." Varadkar criticises NPHET Tanaiste Leo Varadkar has criticised Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohans proposal for a Level Five lockdown, saying it had not been thought through and was delivered with no prior consultation: It was landed on us on a Sunday night as a surprise and without consultation. Asked on RTEs Claire Byrne Live about where it leaves the relationship between the Government and NPHET, he said they have to get back on the same page and do the right thing. Advertisement Describing the Level Five lockdown plan as a circuit breaker strategy and experimental, Mr Varadkar said such a move requires proper thought, prior consultation and a Plan B if it doesnt work and weve not had any of that. "We cant say for certainty if the country can afford a second lockdown," Mr Varadkar said. Denying that the decision is being made between economy and public health, Mr Varadkar said it was about public interest always first. He said Government decisions cant be public health only. Poverty is one of the biggest killers as well. Donnelly defends decision Speaking following this evening's announcement, Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said the Government had made the difficult decision to balance public health advice with all other social and economic considerations. Mr Donnelly said he was "acutely aware that this move to Level Three will be extremely challenging and disappointing" for many businesses and people across Ireland. He said the decision was taken as a result of increasing cases in nursing homes with 31 current outbreaks, along with rising hospitalisations and admissions to intensive care. Asked why the Government had failed to issue comment on the restrictions set to implemented over the past 24 hours, Mr Donnelly said the Government had first needed to meet NPHET and go through the advice in detail. He said that following this, the Government quickly went to a Cabinet meeting and announced its decision shortly after. Advertisement Decision timeline: Sunday evening: NPHET recommends all counties be placed on Level Five restrictions to curb the spread of the virus. Monday morning: Coalition leaders meet with chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan concerning NPHET's recommendation. Monday afternoon: It emerges that a move to Level Five restrictions is unlikely and a move to Level Three is expected. Monday afternoon: Cabinet meets to agree move of all counties in Ireland to Level Three restrictions. Monday evening: Taoiseach Micheal Martin confirms nationwide restrictions in national address. Responsibility Asked if the Government was prepared to accept the potential consequences of its rejection of NPHET's advice to move the country to Level Five restrictions, Mr Donnelly said the Government had done its best to find a balance for all of society: "We believe the decision is the right one, we believe it is the right balance." Asked who would be held responsible if hospitalisations and deaths were to rise rapidly in the coming weeks following this evening's decision, Mr Donnelly said "the virus is responsible." He said it was not a question of who was right or wrong, and that the Government had to consider NPHET's advice in the context of the entire country: "The only enemy here is Covid-19. That's what we're fighting." What the Government hopes to see happen now is "what happened in Kildare, Laois and Offaly" with the suppression of the virus, Mr Donnelly added. National response Mr Donnelly said the decision had been taken to implement nationwide restrictions - which would also impact people living in areas of the country where rates of the virus were low - because of the virus' current "exponential" growth. The Health Minister stated that the virus was growing exponentially outside of Dublin, and that even counties where rates are very low were highly likely to see very rapid and exponential growth "should we not act." Advertisement "A national response at this time is warranted," he said. Mr Donnelly said NPHET would continue to monitor the situation across the country on a daily basis and the Government would continue to engage with its guidance. Speaking on the decision to reject NPHET's advice to move to Level Five, Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe said that the impact of such restrictions "at such speed, would not only mean the loss of thousands of jobs but also the likelihood that they would not come back. "It would have changed the prospects of small and medium sized employers across the country," he added. Level Three reaction The Governments rejection of the advice of public health experts on new restrictions to stop the spread of Covid-19 has been described as a seismic moment. Some industry groups have welcomed the news, with Retail Excellence saying that over 280,000 employees in the retail industry will breath a sigh of relief tonight as they remain in employment. However, the group warned that a move to Level Three would still have a profound impact on cafes forced to move to outdoor dining and takeaway only and on customer footfall in the run up to Christmas. Publicans have warned the move to Level Three restrictions will see 50,000 jobs lost in the pub sector. The chief executive of the Vintners Federation said: There now must be an immediate return to the original Pandemic Unemployment Payment for pub staff along with liquidity supports that will allow our members re-establish their businesses once restrictions are removed. Advertisement While Government say these restrictions will remain in place for three weeks, we have learnt from bitter experience that reopening dates can move at the last minute. The Restaurants Association of Ireland described a move to Level Three as a devastating blow for Irish hospitality, saying that 180,000 jobs would be lost across restaurants, cafes and other hospitality businesses in the coming week. The Governments communication of the new restrictions today has also been criticised as communications chaos by affected hoteliers from the Irish Hotels Federation. Recommendation On Sunday, the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) recommended all counties be moved to Level Five restrictions. Under the chairmanship of Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan for the first time since July, NPHET's recommendation is thought to have caught those in Government buildings completely by surprise. sZeqi NPHET has said every county should move to the most severe level of restrictions and return to essentially a full lockdown. Public health officials said Level Five is now needed for four weeks to deal with the increasing spread of the virus. What does Level Five mean? Stay within 5km of your home for exercise, except for essential journeys, such as food shopping and essential work that cannot be done from home No household visits No indoor or outdoor gatherings Very limited numbers permitted at funerals and wedding No sporting events, concerts, etc. Bars, cafes and restaurants only open for takeaway services In the Living with Covid framework published by Government, a move to Level Five would also signal the closure of schools and colleges, however NPHET's recommendation on Sunday was made with the goal of keeping schools open. The restrictions for Level Five on the Gov.ie website have been amended in relation to schools, creches and higher and adult education. They had previously been listed as "open with protective measures in place" but this has since been changed to "recommendations based on situation and evidence at time". Today's cases There were no new deaths and 518 new cases of Covid-19 confirmed in the Republic this evening, with 134 cases located in Dublin and substantial figures also recorded in Cork, Limerick, Donegal and Meath. Dr Tony Holohan, chief medical officer, described the new figures as part of a "significant and concerning deterioration" in the national situation. There were also a further 616 cases of the virus confirmed on the island today in Northern Ireland, where some 3,630 cases have been reported in the last seven days. At a meeting of the Stormont Executive today, ministers did not make any decisions on the introduction of further coronavirus restrictions in the region but are expected to revisit the issue on Thursday. Public reaction Long queues have formed outside a Smyths toy store in Dublin earlier today as consumers have started their Christmas shopping early with the threat of further restrictions looming. It is unclear under the current lockdown levels which types of stores will be regarded as essential, so while supermarkets will remain open, it is unknown if the same will apply to hardware stores or car dealers. Political reaction Anger and surprise greeted the news of NPHET's recommendation in Government circles, with former minister Barry Cowen calling it the nuclear option. Fianna Fail TD Jim OCallaghan has warned that the Government is not going to get people to change their behaviour through coercion. Laws, regulations and coercion are not going to defeat this virus, he said. The virus cannot be fought or defeated. People were being asked to do something that no previous generation had done, which was to take extraordinary measures, he said. If we go to Level Five now, what then? Mr OCallaghan was also critical of the leaking of the NPHET recommendation of moving to Level Five. We shouldnt be doing business this way. He pointed out that NPHET was an independent entity that advises the Government, but he queried why their approach had been 'inconsistent' and had escalated to the Level Five recommendation so quickly. If we go to Level Five now, what then? Mr OCallaghan pointed out that of the 1,810 people who had died from Covid, only 47 had died since August. He also said that there were 881 hospitalised with Covid in April with 155 in ICU beds, compared with the current figures of 134 hospitalisations and 21 in ICU. Bengaluru, Oct 5 : Invoking the National Disaster Management Act, Karnataka on Monday banned officials and healthcare warriors from going on strike amid a surge in Covid cases in the state. "Public servants, healthcare personnel, regular, contractual and outsourced employees of the state Health Department are prohibited from going on strike, non-cooperation and disobeying or refusing to work in view of the Covid-19 pandemic across the state," said Chief Secretary T.M. Vijay Bhaskar in an order. The order also warned the state government employees that disobeying or refusing work entrusted by their superiors on containing the pandemic would amount to violation of the provisions of the state Civil Services Act. About 5,000 state-run doctors struck work last month affecting Covid care, but resumed duty after Medical Education Minister K. Sudhakar intervened and assured their grievances, including for a pay hike, additional personnel to treat growing number of cases and adequate medical equipment like PPP kits to protect them, would be redressed. With 7,051 new cases till Sunday, the southern state's Covid tally rose to 6,47,712, including 1,15,477 active cases, while 5,22,846 were discharged and 9,370 succumbed to the infection so far. As the epicentre of the disease, Bengaluru accounted for 2,52,229 cases, including 5,412 active while 1,95,015 have been discharged till date and 3,101 died so far. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) Coronavirus does not appear to spread through surfaces such as door handles or light switches, research has suggested. Monica Gandhi, a professor of medicine at the University of California, said the surface issue has essentially gone away. She added that any virus left on surfaces was not usually strong enough to make people ill. A new study from the University of California suggests that the coronavirus doesn't spread through surfaces such as door handles This suggests that measures such as hand-washing and not touching your face are less important than social distancing and mask-wearing in preventing the spread of the virus. It also means that constantly spraying surfaces with antibacterial spray as many have taken to doing during the pandemic may be unnecessary. Professor Gandhi told the US science website Nautilus: Its not [spread] through surfaces. There was a lot of fear at the beginning of the pandemic about fomite transmission. This suggests that measures such as hand-washing and spraying surfaces are less important than social distancing and mask-wearing in preventing the spread of the virus 'We now know the root of the spread is not from touching surfaces and touching your eye. Its from being close to someone spewing virus from their nose and mouth, without in most cases knowing they are doing so. Separate research published in the Lancet has suggested that any coronavirus left lingering on surfaces carries only a very small risk of infection. People shout slogans as they protest against the alleged gang-rape and murder of a 19-year-old woman in Bool Garhi of Hathras district in Uttar Pradesh state, on Oct. 3, 2020. (Pawan Sharma/AFP via Getty Images) German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas and the European Union's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier address the media after talks in Berlin, Germany October 5, 2020. Photo: Tobias Schwarz/Reuters The European Unions chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier is meeting with chancellor Angela Merkel in Germany this morning, ahead of his trip to London on Wednesday for more intense talks with his British counterpart David Frost. Barnier met with German foreign minister Heiko Maas on Monday morning, who said that the coronavirus pandemic has made getting a Brexit trade deal more urgent than before. With todays health and economic challenges, people on both sides of the channel have enough to shoulder, so it would be totally irresponsible to burden them in this position with additional problems through a no-deal, Maas said after the meeting with Barnier. Merkel said in Brussels on Friday (2 September) that she remained hopeful that reaching a trade deal before the end of the year was still possible. I cant announce a breakthrough, Merkel said. As long as negotiations on Brexit are ongoing, Im optimistic. The deadline for reaching a completed trade deal was set for mid-October. However, on Saturday (3 October), UK prime minister Boris Johnson and European Commission head Ursula von der Leyen approved a one-month extension to the negotiations. They noted that the extension was justified in order to reach a deal on security and trade. A joint statement after their phone call said Johnson and von der Leyen agreed on the importance of finding an agreement, if at all possible, as a strong basis for a strategic EU-UK relationship in future. They endorsed the assessment of both chief negotiators that progress had been made in recent weeks but that significant gaps remained, notably but not only in the areas of fisheries, the level playing field and governance, the statement continued. They instructed their chief negotiators to work intensively in order to try to bridge those gaps. READ MORE: UK government pledges 238m for CV and work advice as unemployment grows Goldman Sachs said in a note to clients today that the UK and EU were likely to reach a post-Brexit trade deal by early November, but that a breakdown in negotiations cannot be ruled out. Our core view remains that a thin zero-tariff/zero-quota trade agreement will likely be struck by early November, and subsequently ratified by the end of December, Goldman analysts said in a note. Last week, the EU launched legal action against the UKs Internal Market Bill, saying that it goes against the British governments legal commitments under the Brexit divorce treaty. However, legal proceedings could take years. The ministry of external affairs on Monday informed the Supreme Court that the extradition order of liquor baron Vijay Mallya by the highest court in the United Kingdom has not come into effect yet. The central government told the apex court that it is not aware of the 'secret' ongoing proceedings of in the UK which are delaying Mallya's extradition , according to news agency ANI. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said that government is neither aware of the nature of the proceedings nor is a party to it in the UK Supreme Court which had cleared the extradition of Mallya to India, the news agency reported. Mallyas counsel was also unable to state by when legal, extradition proceedings will end in the UK. The Supreme Court asked Mallyas lawyer to provide clarity on the nature of current proceedings in the UK in the next hearing. The next hearing is scheduled on 2 November. The court had directed the ministry of external affairs to ensure his presence in the courtroom on that day. The Supreme Court earlier rejected Mallya's plea seeking review of 2017 verdict holding him guilty for contempt of court. Mallya had sought a review of its May 2017 order holding him guilty of contempt for transferring $40 million to his children in violation of the court's order. Liquor baron Mallya, promoter of the defunct Kingfisher Airlines has been charged with alleged fraud and money laundering charges amounting to estimated 9,000 crore. He is presently in the UK. Mallya's extradition: What UK officials say The United Kingdom government can not set a timeline for extradition of Vijay Mallya, the British High Commissioner Sir Philip Barton earlier told news agency PTI . "The extradition of Vijay Mallya is an ongoing legal case and I can't comment any further on it. I can't say anything at all about timescales," Barton said. Barton further added, "The UK government and the courts, which are independent of the government, are absolutely clear about their roles in preventing people avoid justice by moving to another country. We are all determined to play our part in any case, and to make sure that we are working together to ensure that criminals can't escape justice by crossing national borders." Citing the unresolved legal issues, the UK government earlier indicated that Mallya is unlikely to be extradited to India anytime soon. In May, Mallya lost his appeals in the UK Supreme Court against his extradition to India. In May, Mallya lost his appeals in the UK Supreme Court against his extradition to India. Mallya had sought asylum on humanitarian grounds, particularly under Article 3 of the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR). However, India has requested the UK government not to consider Mallyas asylum request, the Indian foreign ministry said earlier. We have requested the UK not to consider his asylum as requested by him because there appears to be no ground for his persecution in India," Indian foreign ministry spokesman Anurag Srivastava told earlier. Mallya was arrested by the UK authorities on April 20, 2017 on the request of the Indian investigative agencies. A spokesperson in the British High Commission said that there was a legal issue that needed to be resolved before Mallya's extradition can be arranged, according to a report in PTI. "Under United Kingdom law, extradition cannot take place until it is resolved. The issue is confidential and we cannot go into any detail. We cannot estimate how long this issue will take to resolve. We are seeking to deal with this as quickly as possible," the official had said. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 and observed every October 11, IDG is an annual day of recognition designed to raise awareness of the need for girls' rights. This year's IDG is more important than ever with the global pandemic adversely affecting girls in many ways. For example, millions of girls are currently out of school due to COVID-19, more exposed to violence and trafficking than ever. And with our lives moving online, girls are more at risk than ever of abuse online. Plan's Girl Unlocked initiative will shine a light on the work to be done and will provide ways for people to take action during this vital time through social and real-world integrations, Takeovers, web events and more. As part of its IDG activities, Plan International also released its annual 2020 State of the Worlds Girls Report focused on Freedom Online, addressing the harassment and abuse girls and young women face on social media in the U.S. and worldwide. "Girls and young women around the world face closed doors everywhere they turn, and each year, Plan honors International Day of the Girl by inspiring action to support and inspire girls around the world to unlock their power and potential," said Tessie San Martin, President and CEO of Plan International USA. "The pandemic has made girls even more vulnerable across the board, and it's important for us to raise awareness of the key issues, one of which is harassment and abuse online. This is a barrier to their freedom, to their learning, to their voices being heard, and their potential unlocked, and it is time for action." As part of its IDG initiatives this year, Plan will continue to empower youth in the U.S. to smash gender stereotypes by stepping into roles of leadership via Plan's signature Girl Takeovers. In 2019, more than 1,300 Takeovers were organized and run directly by Plan International offices in honor of IDG. This year, Takeovers are going virtual, allowing girl participants to engage even more through in-depth, hands-on mentorship activities. With the Takeovers, Plan matches girl participants with partner companies and their executives, unlocking doors for girls to take a leadership role in the company for the day and to explore various interests and careers. This year's takeover partners include one hosted by Plan International USA's CEO and companies like Creative Artists Agency and AllianceBernstein. "Takeovers have been an incredible way for me to take a deep-dive into the leadership and inner workings of an industry. My Takeover allowed me to not only have a seat at the table and learn from the experiences of top executives but also gave me a chance to offer my perspectives and insights on the company and its steps towards gender equity. As someone hoping to enter the consulting field, my Takeover was a dream come true," said Malika Dia, Plan International USA Youth Advisory Board Member. Girl Unlocked features a variety of IDG activities for people around the country to take part in: Decorate Front Doors on IDG and Share with Friends: Starting on October 5 , and in celebration of IDG, Plan will rally individuals, families and businesses across the country to decorate their front doors with equal signs and bold messages about gender equality. Participants will be encouraged to share a photo on social media along with their hopes for the next generation of girls with the hashtag #GirlUnlocked. This simple action is a pandemic- and family-friendly activity symbolizing the national movement of unlocking opportunity for girls in the U.S. and globally. Participants can find inspiration and downloadable decorations by visiting our Girl Unlocked hub and downloading a toolkit. Join Female-Led Online Workshops: Plan and The Female Quotient are partnering up to host a series of free interactive online sessions led by Plan youth advocates and female corporate executives to share insights on how they achieved personal and professional success, in an effort to inspire the next generation of girls to pursue their own passions and career goals. The events are a unique activity for parents to share with their children, especially daughters, while spending more time at home. Visit this link to register. Check Out Freedom Online Report and Sign Letter to Amplify Girls' Voices: Plan International's new report shines a light on the harassment and abuse of girls and young women on social media. The organization spoke to 1,165 girls and young women between the age of 15 and 24 in the U.S. and found 43% reported that they have experienced some form of online harassment on social media platforms. Plan published an open letter written by girls asking social media companies to address their standards. Learn about Key Girls' Rights Issues in Advance of Election Day: The Unlock the Vote hub serves as a critical resource to inform voters on what to look for in candidates who will be the strongest advocates for girls' rights and important factors for consideration on Election Day in November 2020 . Voters can also sign a petition that will be sent to the major party presidential campaigns asking them to focus on girls' rights and gender equality. As part of the Election Day initiative, Plan has joined forces with theSkimm to help drive voting and bring attention to girls' rights issues. In honor of IDG and supporting girls' rights, many organizations are joining the movement. The Female Quotient has partnered with Plan to donate 20 percent of sales from all FQ Collection orders now through June 1, 2021. Boscov's has also partnered with Plan to donate five percent of a customer's total purchase amount if "Plan International USA" is mentioned by name when making a purchase in-store or online October 14-15, as part of Boscov's annual Friends Helping Friends campaign. If shopping online, customers will need to select to shop through the Providence, RI location. Building on Plan's partnership with Kotex through its She Can Initiative, Plan will host an international panel with young women from around the world to discuss how period stigma is holding girls back and what we can do to unlock a world that uplifts girls and women around their menstrual health. Young women from Brazil, Nigeria, Vietnam and the United States will be featured in a virtual conversation with the Kotex brand. The discussion will start on 10am EST on October 12. To join, follow Kimberly-Clark's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/KimberlyClarkCorp. To learn more about how to get involved in PLAN's Girl Unlocked movement for IDG, visit http://www.planusa.org and follow on Facebook or Instagram. About Plan International USA Powered by supporters, Plan International USA partners with adolescent girls, young women and children around the world to overcome oppression and gender inequality, providing the support and resources that are unique to their needs and the needs of their communities, ensuring they achieve their full potential with dignity, opportunity and safety. Founded in 1937, Plan is an independent development and humanitarian organization that is active in more than 80 countries. SOURCE Plan USA Related Links http://www.planusa.org Just before the weekend, Google revealed a new initiative that helps pick up Android security flaws in non-Pixel devices. The Android Partner Vulnerability Initiative will manage security flaws it discovers, specific to third-party Android devices. Google didnt explicitly call out any company names in a blog post, but a bug tracker for the program mentioned several manufacturers. Huawei had issues with insecure device backups in 2019, for example. Oppo and Vivo phones had sideloading vulnerabilities. ZTE had weaknesses in its message service and browser autofill. Google notified all of the vendors before disclosing the flaws, and most if not all appear to have been fixed. The initiative is conveniently timed at a point when Google itself is trying to sell us on its new Pixel phone series which doesnt offer such vulnerabilities. Or maybe Im extra skeptical on a Monday morning. -Mat GEEP Canada was supposed to dismantle them, instead. Apple has filed a lawsuit against its former contractor, GEEP Canada, for allegedly reselling over 100,000 iPhones, iPads and Watches that were supposed to be disassembled and recycled. Apparently, at least 11,766 pounds of Apple devices left GEEPs premises without being destroyed. Apple discovered the resales after auditing more than 500,000 iPhones, Watches and iPads between 2015 and 2017. It discovered that 18 percent of those devices (103,845 in total) were still accessing the internet through cellular networks. That doesnt count WiFi-only devices, so the figure is likely much higher. GEEP hasnt denied the theft, but claims that three employees stole the devices to benefit themselves, not the company. Then again, those employees were, in fact, GEEPs senior executives. Continue reading. You'll have to get the Full Self-driving package. A vector-space birds eye parking view is coming to Teslas, but youll need to buy the Full Self-Driving (FSD) package. Its, well, a lot: an $8,000 upgrade if you buy FSD with a new car, and more than a little prohibitive if you arent keen on the bundles other features. Its unclear exactly how the birds eye view will behave, but it will clearly rely on the cameras present on many Teslas to generate a simulated look at your parking space. Musk didnt say when the feature might be ready. And yes, you might have seen similar-looking features like this on other cars already, like the Taycan, and well, my parents Toyota. Continue reading. Can Milla Jovovich work her Resident Evil magic again? After several years of development, finally, we get the first glimpse of the Monster Hunter movie in action. A teaser for Paul W.S. Andersons production offers a taste of the climactic battles youd expect from a MH movie. Monster Hunter has a passionate fanbase, but it might not be quite as iconic as the lucrative Resident Evil series and the subsequent movie juggernaut which was mostly helmed by Anderson and starred Jovovich. Continue reading. Sponsored by StackCommerce Keep your glasses free from fog with this spray StackCommerce Secrets! Some early hands-on sessions for Japanese media means people are finally getting to try Sonys console. The takeaways? Its apparently quite silent, so you might not have to worry about a noisy fan detracting from your immersive gaming experience. The DualSense controllers haptic feedback and adaptive triggers add tactile sensation and weight, 4gamer said, and the buttons arent as noisy as on the PS4s DualShock 4. None of the testers got to show the PS5s interface, however. Sony has promised a whole new visual language for the consoles UI, but that, for now, remains a secret.! Continue reading. But wait, theres more... Russian state hackers appear to have breached a federal agency Microsoft starts taking 'Flight Simulator' VR beta sign-ups Regal Cinemas may close US movie theaters again due to pandemic Facebook leak hints at its defense against a government-ordered breakup Zeiss' full-frame compact camera finally available to pre-order for $6,000 Reliable time travel might take a while THE HAGUE, Netherlands: The defense lawyer of an 87-year-old Rwandan genocide suspect arrested in France has appealed to an international court not to send him to Tanzania to face trial, but instead to transfer him to the Netherlands for health reasons, according to a written request filed Monday. Flicien Kabuga, one of the most wanted fugitives in Rwandas 1994 genocide, was arrested outside Paris in May after 25 years on the run. He is accused of genocide and crimes against humanity for equipping militias that killed more than 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus who tried to protect them. Kabuga has denied involvement in the massacre. A court Paris last week approved Kabugas extradition to a special international court in Arusha, Tanzania. Citing health grounds including fears he could contract COVID-19 in Tanzania, his French lawyer says Kabuga should instead be sent to The Hague, Netherlands. Lawyer Emmanuel Altit put his request in writing to the president of the U.N.s International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, which had sought Kabugas arrest since 2013. The mechanism deals with cases remaining from now-closed U.N. tribunals that prosecuted atrocities committed during the Balkan wars of the 1990s and the Rwandan genocide. The mechanism has branches in The Hague and Arusha. Altit said Kabugas health could be badly affected by a flight from Paris to Arusha and warned that he could also contract COVID-19 in Tanzania. He added that a transfer to Tanzania also would separate Kabuga from his family. Tanzanias president, John Magufuli, has claimed his country is free of the coronavirus because of the power of prayer but his government stopped publicly updating virus data at the end of April, with just 509 confirmed cases. Altit wrote that if Kabuga is sent to Tanzania and contracts COVID-19, he could not be adequately treated since the Tanzanian authorities deny the very presence of the virus on their soil. It wasnt immediately clear how long the mechanisms president would take to issue a ruling. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor Backyard on Broadway has announced that it will reopen Oct. 15 with a full kitchen and a new food program. It was forced to close June 26 when Gov. Greg Abbott shut down Texas bars for the second time. Backyard on Broadway will feature items created by chef Craig Brewer, such as brisket burgers, pizzas, cheesesteak sandwiches, chicken and waffles and traditional side options like loaded tater tots and fried artichokes. On weekends, barbecue will be added into the mix. Even without coronavirus lockdowns hindering travel, Lidia Thorpe doubts her family would have travelled to Canberra to see her "swearing allegiance to the coloniser". The newest Greens senator will formally join the Senate on Tuesday, cloaked in possum skins and carrying a message stick with a line burnt on it for each of the 441 people who have died in custody since the 1991 royal commission. New Greens senator Lidia Thorpe will bring a message that she intends to fight for families of those who have died in custody, represented by 441 burnt lines on a message stick, when she joins parliament. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer The Gunnai and Gunditjmara woman is the first Aboriginal senator for the Greens and to represent Victoria, just as she was the first Aboriginal woman in the Victorian parliament. She replaces the party's previous leader, Richard Di Natale, who left the Parliament in August. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be inaugurating a global virtual summit on Artificial Intelligence (AI) named RAISE 2020 on October 5 at 7 PM. RAISE 2020 is jointly being organised by the ministry of electronics and information technology and NITI Aayog. RAISE 2020 is a first of its kind, a global meeting of minds on Artificial Intelligence to drive the country's vision and roadmap for social transformation, inclusion and empowerment through responsible AI. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the keynote address at the summit while Minister of electronics and IT Ravi Shankar Prasad, NITI Aayogs chief executive officer (CEO) Amitabh Kant will also be addressing the attendees on the day one the summit. Speakers at the summit will be Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Industries Ltd, Arvind Krishna, CEO of IBM and Prof. Rad Reddy, a Turning Awardee, Padma Bhushan awardee and former Co-chair of the US Presidents Information Technology Advisory Committee. READ | Bihar Elections 2020: BJP's Devendra Fadnavis & Sushil Modi meet Nitish's JDU leaders Here's is all you need to know about the RAISE 2020 Summit: In keeping with the theme of Responsible AI for Social Empowerment, RAISE 2020 is set to hosts an exciting line-up of leaders, policy designers, innovators and other diverse stakeholders, who contribute to the discourse on the potential of artificial intelligence for promoting public good across domains, such as health, education, mobility, agriculture etc. The virtual summit will take place between October 5 and October 9. The summit will have industry leaders and AI experts share their views and on the use of AI for social benefit, the impact of AI in empowering communities as well as the importance of creating a reliable infrastructure. More than 38,700 stakeholders from the academia, the research industry as well as government representatives from 125 countries have registered to participate in RAISE 2020 virtual summit, according to official figures. RAISE 2020 will facilitate an exchange of ideas to create mass awareness about the need to ethically develop and practice AI and the summit will also feature start-ups working in AI-related fields. Start-ups chosen through the AI Solution Challenge will showcase their solutions in the AI Startup Pitch fest scheduled on October 6. This is part of the Indian government's continuing support to tech entrepreneurs and start-ups by providing exposure, recognition and guidance. Experts participating in the summit will be Professor Daniela Rus, Director of Computer Science and AI lab at MIT, USA, Dr Milind Tambe, Director, AI for Social Good at Google Research India, Sandip Patel, MD, IBM India and South Asia, Dr Jonathan Stuart Russel, Computer Scientist, UC Berkeley, and Arunima Sarkar, Lead, AI, World Economic Forum. READ | PM Modi pays tribute to freedom fighter Shyamji Krishna Varma on his birth anniversary About the expert talks to be held at RAISE 2020 Professor Rus will talk about the vision of 'Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence', which India joined as a founder member in June 2020, along with the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, Mexico, New Zealand, Japan, Korea and Singapore. She will be joined in this session by Dr Russel and Sarkar, along with Umakant Soni, Co-founder, AI Foundry, the ministry said. Dr Rohini Srivathsa, National Technology Officer, Microsoft, will address a session on building skills for an AI-ready workforce, where she will be joined by Laura Longcore, VP, Worldwide Learning Field and Ms Kirti Seth, Lead, Future Skills, NASSCOM. Dr Milind Tambe will address a session on the need for research into building responsible AI. Sandip Patel will headline a session on the challenges and opportunities of harnessing AI for Growth, where he will be joined by Ranjan Sharma, CIO, Supply Chain and E-Commerce, Bestseller India, Tarun Aggarwal, AVP, Maruti Suzuki India, Arvind Sivaramakrishnan, CIO, Apollo Hospitals, Lula Mohanty, GM, IBM Global Business Services, Anup Mahapatra, Deputy MD, State Bank of India, and Ms Shalini Warrier, ED, COO, and Business Head - Retail, Federal Bank. READ | Bihar polls: Sushil Modi attacks Mahagatbandhan over seat-sharing deal, takes a dig at VIP READ | PM Modi clear on Textile sector's Aatmanirbhar Bharat role; outlines immensity of scope A 1945 law repeatedly used by Gov. Gretcher Whitmer to respond to the coronavirus pandemic was declared unconstitutional Friday by the Michigan Supreme Court, a striking decision that puts months of restrictions in jeopardy while COVID-19 continues to flare up around the state. The opinion is an extraordinary development in a monthslong conflict between Whitmer, a Democrat, and Republicans who control the Legislature and have complained that they have been shut out of sweeping orders that have impacted education, the economy and health care. Coincidentally, the courts action emerged on the same day that Whitmers foes submitted more than 539,000 signatures in a bid to repeal the 45 law. The governor said the 4-3 decision, with Republican-nominated justices in the majority, was deeply disappointing. But Whitmer did not signal that she was giving up. She said her emergency declaration and related orders still can remain in place for 21 days, and then many of them will continue under alternative sources of law. Whitmer did not elaborate, but it is likely that her administration will act under public health statutes. The state health department, for instance, previously issued orders mirroring some of the governors restrictions. Every state and the federal government have some form of declared emergency, she said. With this decision, Michigan will become the sole outlier at a time when the Upper Peninsula is experiencing rates of COVID infection not seen in our state since April. For nearly seven months, Whitmer has imposed, and sometimes eased, restrictions on Michigans economy, K-12 school system, health care and even visits to state parks, all in an attempt to reduce the risk of the highly contagious virus, which has infected 126,000 residents and killed more than 6,700. Masks are required in enclosed public spaces and in crowded outdoor places. Restaurant capacity is limited to 50%. People must work remotely if they can, and indoor residential gatherings are capped at no more than 10 people. Republican officials said Whitmer can continue to use a 1976 law, which gives lawmakers a say in any emergency declarations after 28 days. The Supreme Court said the 45 public safety law cited by Whitmer granted Michigan governors unchecked authority. That act is an unlawful delegation of legislative power to the executive branch in violation of the Michigan Constitution, Justice Stephen Markman wrote. Accordingly, the executive orders issued by the governor in response to the COVID-19 pandemic now lack any basis under Michigan law. In a dissent, Chief Justice Bridget McCormack said she would have let the law stand, even if it gives a governor sole authority to exercise the whole of the states police power in some emergencies. Lawmakers could repeal the law or amend it, and frustrated residents could sue if they do not agree with specific orders, McCormack said. The majority needlessly inserts the court into what has become an emotionally charged political dispute, McCormack wrote, joined by fellow Democratic-nominated justices Richard Bernstein and Megan Cavanagh. Although the constitutionality of the 45 law produced a split ruling, the justices unanimously agreed that any orders past April 30 without input from the Legislature were not valid. The case reached the Supreme Court in an uncommon way. A federal judge overseeing a lawsuit that makes state and federal claims about Whitmers powers asked for an opinion on the constitutionality of the Michigan laws. Our Constitution matters, and this was a big win for our democratic process, said Republican House Speaker Lee Chatfield of Emmet County. In a footnote to his opinion, Markman offered an optimistic message. Our decision leaves open many avenues for the governor and Legislature to work together to address this challenge and we hope that this will take place, he said. Unlock Michigan, which collected petitions for an initiative to rescind the `45 law, said the law still needs to be repealed. If 340,000 of the conservative groups signatures are deemed valid, the Legislature could adopt the bill and Whitmer could not veto it. A different court, at a different time, could come to a different conclusion, said Unlock Michigan spokesman Fred Wszolek. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics COVID-19 Legislation Michigan Bengaluru, Oct 5 : Close on the heels of the announcement of dates for by-elections for two assembly seats in Karnataka, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) raided 14 locations associated with Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee president D.K. Shivakumar and his brother Bengaluru Rural Lok Sabha MP, D.K. Suresh on Monday. The CBI launched the raids at around 6 a.m. on Monday, and as the news spread, scores of supporters started gathering in front of his house. The Congress leaders launched scathing attacks on the union government, with party General Secretary Randeeep Singh Surjewala terming it "raid raj" and former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah terming it to be an effort by the BJP government at the Centre to derail the Congress party's preparations for the bypolls. Taking to Twitter, Surjewala charged that "the insidious game of intimidation and machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding @DKShivakumar won't deter them... The CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt". He further added "Let Modi and Yeddyurappa governments and BJP's frontal organisations i.e CBI-ED-Income Tax know that Congress workers and leaders will not be cowed down nor bow down before such devious attempts." "Our resolve to fight for people and expose BJP's maladministration only becomes stronger," Surejewala added. Last year in September, the Karnataka Congress chief was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate, based on a charge sheet filed by the Income Tax Department against him. He was accused of routing unaccounted money through hawala channels with the help of others. Under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), Shivakumar was charged with tax evasion and 'hawala' transactions worth crores of rupees. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text The Finance Ministry has served notice that government will not proceed with the Initial Public Offering (IPO) of the Agyapa Royalties deal until the Special Prosecutor concludes ongoing corruption risk assessment on it. In a letter signed by Deputy Finance Minister, Charles Adu Boahene and sighted by Citi News, the Ministry said the initial plan to launch the IPO in September is currently on hold. The Ministry of Finance assured that it was ready to cooperate with the anti-graft office. The Ministry does not intend to proceed with the IPO ahead of the results of the corruption risk assessment by your Office, the Ministry added in the statement. The Special Prosecutor, Martin Amidu, wrote to the Finance Ministry urging it to suspend the issuance of IPO pending the receipt of crucial documents to assist with the corruption risk assessment. The Ministry is in agreement that more transparency is necessary to bolster the integrity of the already controversial deal. The international investor community has been closely monitoring the outcome of the current state of the transaction, and, it would, therefore, be detrimental to proceed without receiving the necessary approvals and green light from your Office, it said. Additionally, we will be required to fully disclose in the prospectus to the transaction, the outcome of any investigation by your office prior to approval by the respective regulators of stock exchanges in Ghana and the United Kingdom. The Ministry added that it was on standby to provide any further information or clarification for the Special Prosecutors risk assessment. The Special Prosecutor has so far been given information concerning mainly the processes for and the appointment of the Transaction Advisors. But it also wants information and documents relating to the identification and recommendation by the transaction advisors. The Ministry in its latest letter said it had furnished the Prosecutor with relevant documents pertaining to the appointment of the Transaction Advisors and the opinion of the principal legal advisor to government, among others. The latest developments notwithstanding, some critics are not relenting on their corruption fears with the deal. The Alliance of Civil Society Organisations working in Extractive, Anti-Corruption and Good Governance says it will continue to kick against the deal despite the move by the Special Prosecutor to get the implementation process suspended. ---citinewsroom SHELTON A Shelton Intermediate School community member has tested positive for COVID-19, but the school will remain open, according to interim Superintendent Beth Smith. Smith said the district was notified Sunday of the positive test. The individual has not been at the school since Tuesday, Sept. 29, Smith said. The Naugatuck Valley Health Department is in the process of contact tracing and will notify any individuals who have had contact with the person who tested positive. It is not necessary to close the school at this time, Smith added. Smith said upon hearing of the positive test, district officials immediately began working with state and local health officials. She said that all procedures and protocol have been and will continue to be followed. The health and wellbeing of our students, staff, parents and the community remains our top priority, Smith said. This is the first such positive test since two Elizabeth Shelton School community members reportedly tested positive only days after the opening of school on Sept. 8. One day before that announcement, Smith informed staffers that three district employees one a Shelton High staffer are self-quarantining while awaiting test results. Guidance from the state Department of Education and the state Department of Public Health advises that individuals who may have been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 to self-quarantine for 14 days from last exposure to the infected person. brian.gioiele@hearstmediact.com Laurence Fox has labelled a fellow actor and social media users 'paedophiles' in a bizarre online spat. The actor is embroiled in a heated exchange with a number of Twitter users including Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp and deputy chair of Stonewall, Simon Blake, whom he called 'paedophiles' after they claimed he was 'racist'. This comes after Fox accused Sainsbury's of 'promoting racial segregation and discrimination' and promised to boycott the supermarket chain after it promoted Black History Month. As he faced a backlash for his views, he clapped back at people 'falsely accusing him of racism' by retaliating with unsubstantiated slurs calling them 'paedophiles'. He has since removed the posts, writing: 'I have deleted the tweets posted yesterday, in response to being repeatedly, continuously and falsely smeared as a racist.' Laurence Fox is embroiled in a heated exchange with a number of Twitter users The actor is embroiled in a heated exchange with a number of Twitter users including the deputy chair of the Stonewall charity, Simon Blake Fox found himself in a fiery debate with Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp Fox has since removed the posts, writing: 'I have deleted the tweets posted yesterday, in response to being repeatedly, continuously and falsely smeared as a racist.' At the weekend Fox found himself in a fiery debate with former Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp after she said Fox was 'unequivocally, publicly and undeniably a racist'. He hit back: 'Any company giving future employment to Nicola Thorpe or providing her with a platform does so with the complete knowledge that she is unequivocally, publicly and undeniably a paedophile.[sic]' Fox said last night: 'Language is powerful. To accuse someone of racism without any evidence whatsoever to back up that accusation is a deep slander. 'It carries the same stigma and reputation destroying harm as accusing someone of paedophilia. Here endeth the lesson.' The row comes after the actor, who recently announced he was launching his own political party to 'reclaim British values', denounced the supermarket on Twitter. He said: 'Dear Sainsbury's. I won't be shopping in your supermarket ever again whilst you promote racial segregation and discrimination. I sincerely hope others join me. RT' It came in the wake of Sainsbury's announcing they would be marking Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements of the black community, recognising the central role black people have played in history. The supermarket says its aim is to be 'the most inclusive retailer' where 'every single one of our colleagues feels safe and supported at work'. At the weekend Fox found himself in a fiery debate with former Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp (pictured) - after she said Fox was 'unequivocally, publicly and undeniably a racist' Sainsbury's said anyone who is not happy with 'an inclusive retailer' is welcome to shop elsewhere as it says it is proud to celebrate Black History Month with their communities Fox, who sparked controversy when he said suggestions of 'racism' over how the Duchess of Sussex was treated in some quarters was 'boring', says among his new party's aims are reforming the BBC, protecting free speech and celebrating Britain's contribution to the world The actor has received substantial sums from former Tory donors to launch his own political party provisionally called Reclaim and hopes to stand dozens of candidates across the UK, he says Laurence Fox and his past controversies January 16, 2020: Fox was involved in a heated debate with the academic and ethnicity lecturer Rachel Boyle after she called him 'a white privileged male' on BBC's Question Time. The 41-year-old accused Ms Boyle, an academic at Edge Hill University on Merseyside, of 'being racist' after she called him 'a white privileged male' for denying the Duchess of Sussex was hounded from Britain for being mixed-race. As the row continued the following day he quoted Martin Luther King's 1963 'I have a dream' speech about living in a nation where children 'will not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character'. He said: 'This is the position I took last night and I live by in life. If you can improve on it, I'm all ears. Or you can keep screeching ''Racist!'' at me and I can carry on having a jolly good giggle at your expense. The tide is turning'. January 17, 2020: The actor later went on to reveal that he does not date women under the age of 35 because they are 'too woke' and many of them are 'absolutely bonkers' during an interview with the Delingpod podcast. During the podcast , Fox said that he called off a relationship with a former partner because she praised a Gillette advert which highlighted 'toxic masculinity.' January 23, 2020: Fox apologised for his comments about the inclusion of a Sikh soldier in the First World War film 1917 by Sir Sam Mendes. The actor had initially referred to 'the oddness in the casting' of a Sikh soldier and was met by widespread criticism by historians who confirmed that Sikhs had served in the British Army. Fox later tweeted: 'Fellow humans who are Sikhs, I am as moved by the sacrifices your relatives made as I am by the loss of all those who die in war, whatever creed or colour. 'Please accept my apology for being clumsy in the way I expressed myself.' June 18, 2020: In a piece for the Spectator, Fox, questioned if Meghan Markle stepped down as a working royal because she did not get the 'limelight' In September 2020, Fox said that he had been 'cancelled' by fellow actor Rebecca Front because she had blocked him on Twitter over his use of the 'All Lives Matter' counter-slogan in response to the Black Lives Matter movement. Fox later apologised for revealing this through tweeting a private text conversation between the pair, in which Front had explained her reasons for blocking him. Advertisement The company said it is actively pushing for change for black people in the UK and want all their customers and colleagues to be themselves and feel celebrated when they shop at Sainsbury's. In a statement, Sainsbury's said: 'We are proud to celebrate Black History Month, together with our Black colleagues, customers and communities and we will not tolerate racism. 'We proudly represent and serve our diverse society and anyone who does not want to shop with an inclusive retailer is welcome to shop elsewhere.' Fox told his 239,000 Twitter followers that despite it being his closest supermarket, they would not be getting his custom until they 'address their regressive and segregationist policies'. His response sparked debate on Twitter with some backing his views while others said Sainsbury's tweet had had the desired effect. One wrote: 'Beautifully put! I cannot believe how wrong Sainsburys has got this. 'This idiocy has to have come down from Board level. Really feel for their staff - how the hell do they handle this?' Fox, who has been a fierce critic of the BBC, sparked controversy when he said suggestions of 'racism' over how the Duchess of Sussex was treated in some quarters was 'boring'. He also hit out at black and working class actors for complaining about the industry once they have 'five million quid in the bank'. A Westminster source said the new party is a version of UKIP for the culture wars and believes it could attract hundreds of thousands of unhappy Conservative voters. Sources close to Fox said the party does not see itself as strictly left or right wing but will be a broad church. Reclaim so far has three objectives, which include protecting free speech, reforming publicly funded institutions, and preserving and celebrating Britain's cultural history. Planning has been underway for the last two months and backers include former Tory donor Jeremy Hosking. Staff are already being recruited for the party after Fox was launched into the political arena after his performance on Question Time in January. Laurence Fox announced last month that he was launching a new political party called the Reclaim Party in a bid to 'reclaim British values'. The actor, 42, has received substantial sums from former Tory donors and hopes to stand dozens of candidates across the UK. The Lewis star says he wants to provide a movement for people who are 'tired of being told that we represent the very thing we have, in history, stood together against'. He hopes to launch the party next month and the name is subject to the Electoral Commission's approval. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 21:39:33|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close PRETORIA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) on Monday called on all workers to stay away from work on Wednesday in protest against deteriorating economy and corruption. Cosatu general secretary Bheki Ntshalintshali said the work stoppage targets the government, private sector employers and law enforcement agencies. "The workers need to unite in defending jobs, fighting corruption as well as shortcomings of our law enforcement agencies in fighting corruption and gender-based violence," he said. "We are making a louder call for decisive state intervention in strategic sectors of the economy, the use of a variety of macroeconomic and other levers at the state's disposal to deliberately drive industrialization, sustainable development, decent employment." Cosatu called on the government to urgently fix non-performing state-owned enterprises. It also wants the central bank to put in place measures to stop illegal capital flight. Social distancing will be observed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 during the strke, Ntshalitshali said. "We need to take a stand and push back against this flagrant theft of taxpayer funds," he said. "The only way to undo this corrupt system is through disruption and non-cooperation and obstruction." South Africa's state-owned enterprises have been making losses for years due to alleged corruption and mismanagement. According to the South African Reserve Bank, the central bank, the economy will fall by over 7 percent this year because of COVID-19 and other factors. Enditem Some of the key players in the Vietnamese ride-hailing market include Grab, Gojek (GoViet), bE, Vato, FastGo, and MyGo The report says that the increasing economic impact of the internet and the implementation of the new Decree No.10/2020 in the transportation industry in Vietnam are the two primary factors that are likely to propel the growth of the ride-hailing market. The entry of app-based motorbike taxi services have predominantly captured the market share of the traditional motorbike taxi, popularly called xe om in the country. Grab is the first company in Vietnam to launch GrabBike, an app-based motorbike taxi initially promoted in Ho Chi Minh City in November 2014, which spread throughout the country in 2015. Following the footprints of Grab, many other app-based motorbike services like Go-Jek, Aber, FastGo, VATO, MyGo, and be Group JSC had launched in the Vietnamese motorbike ride-hailing market during 2018-2019. FastGo began its FastBike Pro service in Hanoi in January 2019. It tested FastBike Pro since August 2018 with the difference being a greater focus on professional two-wheeler services, as drivers must undergo a rigorous recruitment process, assessing their ethics and attitudes, as well as ability to ride a high-end motorbike. FastGo also provides health insurance packages worth up to VND20 million ($870) and insurance related to theft or new vehicle purchases of VND 20 million ($870) to attract drivers, especially students. The other companies like bE Group JSC and Gojek entered the app-based motorbike service business in Vietnam in 2018. Gojek officially launched GoViet in Ho Chi Minh City in 2018. The GoViet app was offering services like GOoBike and GoSend on a trial period in some districts of Ho Chi Minh City in July 2018. After testing, GoViet expanded to Hanoi and other provinces of Vietnam. Traditional xe om drivers are still present, especially in tourist areas. However, the app-based motorbike services dominate with more than 60 per cent of the countrys motorbike taxi market. The increasing entry of both local and international companies into the app-based motorbike services with unique promotional programmes in the Vietnamese taxi market, is likely to propel demand for app-based motorcycle ride-hailing market during the forecast period. The ride-hailing market is a highly consolidated market with dominant players like Grab, be Group JSC, Gojek (GoViet), and FastGo in Vietnam. Grab captured more than 70 per cent of the ride-hailing market in the country during 2019. The biggest threat to Grab in the future may come from be, the latest local player in the Vietnamese ride-hailing market. The company asserted that it was able to drum up hundreds of millions of dollars in local investment. Be has another ace up its sleeve it is registered as a transportation service, not just as a tech company. This may make all the difference with the implementation of the new decree in the future. GoViet partnered up with local firms and focused on the two-wheel bike-hailing market which are the two factors that drove the company to gain around 20 per cent of the two-wheel ride-sharing market in centres like Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, the company is yet to foray into the four-wheel ride-sharing segment in Vietnam. Press Release October 5, 2020 Sen. Francis "Tol" Tolentino interpellation to Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) SFNT: Wala po ako masyadong tanong. I would like to commend my schoolmate, Sec. Meynard Guevarra for doing good job leading the DOJ family. May dalawang tanong lang po ako sa NBI, if NBI is present? - Yes they're here. Dir. Distor, I join Sen. Lapid in pushing for additional budget for NBI. Kakampi mo ko doon. But my attention was struck by this COA report regarding your property and plant equipment account which according to COA cannot be relied upon due to unreconciled differences between your physical inventory, etc. Have you addressed this? - (Dir. Distor) Sir on the inventory sir we are conducting reconciliation of the equipments and other office supplies. SO may ginagawa naman kayo dyan? Kasi ang daming tumutulong sa inyo. Even the City of Tagaytay, nagpatayo kami ng building sa inyo, brand new building, complete equipment pero mukhang ayaw niyo namang gamitin. - Sir the NBI would like to express its gratitude. I was informed sir that NBI just received the formal donation sir to NBI consisting more or less 500 sqm. lot with a 3-storey building sir. The documents now are being processed by our legal divisions for our formal acceptance. Within this week sir, order of the transfer will be deliberated to our staff and then we will submit our formal report to your office sir. Yes. Siguro do it fast. You cannot find an LGU willing to donate a prime piece of property and building structure for you. So sana madaliin niyo 'yan director. And that should be part of your COA report next year. Itong PPE niyo. Thank you Mr. Chair. I'll now go to the Office of Solicitor General. Is the Solicitor General around? - (Sen. Angara) We received a letter from the office of Sol Gen. Calida that his physician advised him for a 5-day rest that's why he is not here. He assigned his Asisstant Angeles to represent him. So the Assistant Solicitor General probably is authorized to answer questions. Kung hindi naman niya alam ay sabihin niya kasi nakakapagtaka kahit 'yong Supreme Court hindi umaattend si Chief Justice. So for the Office of the Solicitor General, some direct questions. Apparently and it appears not just from your statements, anecdotal reports, that the Solicitor General is the highest paid government official in our bureaucracy, is that correct? - I think the SolGen is included in the top 10 last year in the highest paid government employees. Not top 10, top 2. - I can't recall exactly Mr. Chair. Yes, and it came from some COA reports, the former Solicitor General specifically former Justice Francis H. Jardeleza, hindi nga nangalahati doon sa tinatanggap ni Solicitor General Calida. Bakit kaya nangyari ito? Ano 'yong napadagdag? Nag-increase 'yong budget? Or there are allowances that are being distributed by the Office of the Solicitors General pursuant to your mandate, e baka sa kan'ya lang napupunta? - I don't have exact figures of what SolGen receives specifically. Tama 'yong sagot mo Atty. Angeles but this is the peculiarity of this. There is an Executive Order 292. This is the Revised Administrative Code of 1987, allowing the distribution of honoraria and other allowances to the SolGen. But apparently, there is a COA circular, I can place this on the record, 85-25E which states that allowances should not exceed 50% of the annual salary and apparently there is a disconnect here. COA has been asking you not to raise that more than 50% and apparently the Solicitor General has defied the COA memorandum circular. Can you explain that, Atty. Angeles? Remember Mr. Angeles that COA is a constitutional office ha? Go ahead. - This COA findings started way back years before the administration and of SolGen Calida. So pending resolution by COA, you're still pursuing that questionable practice, is that correct? Because it might intend some reimbursements if COA finds otherwise. - Yes correct Mr. Chairman. I look at this Mr. Chair as an arbitrary distribution of funds by the Solicitor General but I don't question the distribution to our lawyers who should be receiving that likewise kaya lang 'yong pagpili. Sino 'yong tatanggap, gano'n kalaki? It largely remain within the discretion of the Solicitor General. Tama ba 'yon, Atty. Angeles kayo lang raw ang pumipili 'yong daw mga passports na paborito, 'yon lang ang bibigyan? - Under the law, SolGen can choose which lawyers can be assigned to specific task. I hope that can be done in a transparent manner because some of your OSG lawyers have complained. I won't be mentioning the names but pinipili lang daw 'yong nakakatanggap. Siguro hindi na yun yung topic na ipu-pursue ko kasi wala diyan si Solicitor General, siya po 'yong makakasagot niyan. Ito pong ginagawa niyo 'yong pag-visitation niyo sa mga level ng preliminary investigation, is this pursuant to the charter of OSG? Kasi ang alam ko the participation of OSG is limited to representing the government on the appellate level. Hindi naman sa simula pa lang. - That's correct po Mr. Chair. Is there a basis for this? - I agree. So if there is no basis of it, there should be no basis likewise for the expenditures, emanating from government funds because the government now is spending for your preliminary investigations, fact-finding activities which is outside the mandate of the Office of the Solicitor General and which should not be funded at all by the government because it is outside your mandate. Am I correct, Atty. Angeles? - I am not aware of the fact-finding activities. Can you submit a report in this committee relative to the existence of such fact-finding bodies which are against the mandate of the OSG? Padalhan mo lang kami dito sa committee, with the permission of the honourable chair. Another question Mr. Chairman, is the big jump in the 2021 budget proposal for travel expenses. Are you familiar with this, Atty. Angeles? - (Atty. Angeles confirmed the increase.) How much is the increase? - 5% No. I'm referring to the travel funds. Because apparently, you have an allocation of 21.499 million and 87.75% is for foreign travels. E kasagsagan pa po next year ng COVID-19, saan naman po tayo magfo-foreign travel? E kahit ngayong 2020, e hindi niyo siguro nagamit 'yong foreign travel fund. Ngayon Malaki pa 'yong hinihingi niyo. Hindi ko alam kung saan kayo magtatravel. Hindi naman siguro sa Boracay. - Each travel po, we are also requesting for a realignment of the allocation. Have you submitted that request to the line, to this committee? Kung wala pa, bakit natin dinedeliberate itong budget niyo. Iba pala 'yong aaprubahan namin. Iba pala 'yong pinadala niyo, iba rin 'yong intention ninyo. So when are you going to submit your documents Atty. Angeles? Kasi ang dami kong papel dito, papakita ko sa iyo. Iba pala 'tong hinahawakan ko kasi may proposal pa kayong iba. In fairness to my other colleagues, ito rin 'yong hawak nilang papel, iba naman pala 'yong proposals ninyo. - I've been informed we already sent the request to realign the funds. So you're referring to the travel fund allocation, Atty. Angeles, and others? - Opo Sana napadala niyo, nabigyan niyo kami bago man lang mag-hearing. Nagpuyat pa ko rito kagabi. So my other question with the permission of my other colleagues has something to do with what Sen. Marcos raised a while ago. It has something to do with the confidential funds. I don't know if you're in a position to answer all of these questions. Apparently, your confidential funds jumped from 5 million, to now, it is hovering the base line of 20 million for the next physical year. Sen. Marcos was asking for a detailed version of this and apparently your answer was this was going to be converted into capital outlay, am I correct? Again, Mr. Chair I think the Commission on Audit flagged again the OSG and the DBM because apparently and it is very clear here that your confidential funds is not pursuant to joint circular 2015-01 of the DBM and I'm referring to the guidelines on the entitlement released used reports in the audit of the confidential funds. And that joint circular specifically states that it should be for national security and peace and order only. Naintindihan mo ba 'yon, Atty. Angeles? And now you are referring to APEX? - Yes po Mr. Chairman. I understand last time we had a closed door meeting with the executive council relative to the utilization of similarly situated funds. And I'm not sure if the office of the Solicitor's General was part of that executive session. Kasama po ba kayo do'n Atty. Angeles? - I can't recall po Mr. Chair. So kung hindi mo na-recall malamang hindi kayo kasali. Kasi pinag-usapan do'n 'yong tungkol sa National Security, Peace and Order and that entire template which is being headed by Sec. Esperon. If you're not part of that structure, I don't see any program on how National Security and Peace and Order would fit in a Office of Solicitor General budget. So dito siguro nagkakaroon tayo ng disconnect. Now you're claiming it will now be utilised for capital expenditures and that probably would be your agency's indigenous answer to this persisting COA and DBM problem. Mas maganda po siguro Mr. Chair for the last three years, kung ma-submit ng Office of the Solicitor General. How this National Security, very confidential and Peace and Order template was utilised by the Office of the Solicitor General? Kung maibibigay po sa komite today, next week, ng Office of the Solicitor General as well as the proposed utilization of the travel funds. Hindi po kaya sagutin ni Atty. Angeles, Mr. Chair, I move for the deferral of the OSG budget hearing today until such time that they can submit the documents that would buttress their claim that this would be utilised for the appropriate purpose, Mr. Chairman. - (Sen. Angara) Any objection to the motion from the body? - (Sen. Pimentel) Can Sen. Tolentino restate the reason po? We need to be apprised by the concerned agency and due to the absence of the head of the agency in this committee budget hearing, we need to be apprised how this confidential funds allocation was utilized during the previous years and for this coming physical year because the representative is claiming a different reason that it will be converted into a capital outlay and the travel funds again will be converted into capital outlay. It appears Mr. Chairman and with the indulgence of Sen. Pimentel, we are dealing with a different budgetary proposal because time and again, the representative of the Office of the Solicitor General is claiming that a different set of the budgetary proposals will be sent to the plenary. That's my impression because what we have here in front of us is a different budgetary proposal because they still have to amend their budgetary proposal, Mr. Chair. Hindi po concrete 'yong sinubmit nila dito. Can you concretize this Atty. Angeles? When? - We have submitted po August 27th po. But I understand Mr. Angeles, with the permission of the Chairman, on a confidential matter relative to national security, please apprise this committee on a very confidential manner, how the Office of the Solicitor General participates in national security and peace and order concern. When you admitted a while ago that your mandate is dedicated to appellate participation in government cases. When you admitted a while ago that your mandate is dedicated to appellate participation in government cases. Bakit tayo napunta ngayon sa national security. So 'yon lang po Mr. Chair. Ipadala lang nila 'yon, maliwanagan lang. Addressed to the committee members, highly confidential.We don't want to have another executive session concerning this. Para maliwanag po ito, Mr. Chair. - (Sen. Pimentel) 2 reasons are not congruent to the budget being explained by Atty. Angeles. Mr. Chair, I join Sen. Pimentel in his proposal because these are the very same questions I asked last year. I asked the LRA last year relative to their encoding processes, their honor verification system, etc. and these are the same questions now being asked by Sen. Pimentel. So apparently, this has not been addressed. So I concur with Sen. Pimentel. I join the distinguished gentleman from Cagayan de Oro in seeking a deferral of the budget of the LRA. Thank you Mr. Chair. For the New World Order, a world government is just the beginning. Once in place they can engage their plan to exterminate 80% of the world's population, while enabling the "elites" to live forever with the aid of advanced technology. For the first time, crusading filmmaker ALEX JONES reveals their secret plan for humanity's extermination: Operation ENDGAME. Jones chronicles the history of the global elite's bloody rise to power and reveals how they have funded dictators and financed the bloodiest warscreating order out of chaos to pave the way for the first true world empire. Watch as Jones and his team track the elusive Bilderberg Group to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. to Ottawa and Istanbul to document their secret summits, allowing you to witness global kingpins setting the world's agenda and instigating World War III. Learn about the formation of the North America transportation control grid, which will end U.S. sovereignty forever. Discover how the practitioners of the pseudo-science eugenics have taken control of governments worldwide as a means to carry out depopulation. View the progress of the coming collapse of the United States and the formation of the North American Union. Never before has a documentary assembled all the pieces of the globalists' dark agenda. Endgame's compelling look at past atrocities committed by those attempting to steer the future delivers information that the controlling media has meticulously censored for over 60 years. It fully reveals the elite's program to dominate the earth and carry out the wicked plan in all of human history. Endgame is not conspiracy theory, it is documented fact in the elite's own words. Syracuse, N.Y. Syracuse schools opened to students today, following weeks of concerns about whether the district could keep teachers and students safe from the coronavirus. At Dr. Weeks Elementary School on the citys North Side, the halls are usually crowded with about 750 students in preK-fifth grade. Today, there were fewer than 200 students. Thats half of the students who are coming for in-person instruction. The other half come Thursday and Friday. Students who are learning English and students who have special needs are at school four days a week. Everyone is home on Wednesdays. Districtwide, about 65 percent of the 20,000 students will be coming for some in-person learning. The rest decided to stay home and learn online for the semester. All students had been learning at home since Sept. 14. To say were excited to have kids in person is an understatement, said Principal Diane Vitello said, wearing a T-shirt with a lemon and the phrase: When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. In Janet McCanns fifth-grade class, the students wore masks and sat behind desk shields as they discussed that days reading of Bud Not Buddy." A portable air filter hummed constantly from beside McCanns desk. Outside the door, the hallways are marked with one-way signs so no one bumps into anyone else. A kindergarten class waited to go get its lunches. Each masked child stood on a red tile, six feet from the other. They held cloth bags with handles to carry their lunches of fried chicken back to the classroom, instead of eating in the cafeteria. (Traditional lunch trays are no good for times like these; kids who have to walk up and down stairs would spill them, Vitello said.) Families of children who are remote and hybrid, but at home today, were also picking up lunches. In McCanns class, one student said he was happy to be back in school so he could do his work. Its so much harder at home, he said. But his classmate said he preferred home, where he could go at his own pace while he snacked. In a third-grade class, one boy told Superintendent Jaime Alicea that he had not done work on a computer at home because he didnt have one. The access to technology has been a constant discussion in the district of 20,000 students, many of whom live in poverty. Alicea said there is a computer for every child who needs one. The boy without a computer, and about two dozen others at Dr. Weeks who had not yet gotten computers, would be getting them today, Vitello said. As the district stares down a potential financial crisis because of cuts in state aid, pandemic school is costing millions. The district spent more than $5 million on computers and hotspots so students can work from home. The air filters, two for each classroom, cost $960,000. The 14,000 desk shields cost $350,000. The air filters were purchased just last week after the Syracuse Teachers Association, the union that represents more than 3,000 teachers in the district, said they didnt think it was safe to come back this week. Alicea said the district has done everything it can to ensure that the buildings are safe and that he wants students back. Theres no school without kids, he said. For Vitello and the teachers, it was a relief to see the kids they had been worrying about for months. Last year, McCann, the fifth-grade teacher, would talk to Levi Duffy, a chatty fourth-grader, as he walked out of the building. It had become routine. Shed hear about his day and what was coming next. All spring, summer and then fall, she worried about him and the others, she said. Today, he sat in the front row of her class, chatting up a storm. McCann teared up as she listened to him answer the superintendents questions. Are you a teacher or parent in the SCSD whose first in-person day of school was today? Id love to hear how it went. Reach me at email | Twitter| Facebook | cell 315-470-2246. Marnie Eisenstadt writes about people, public affairs and the Syracuse City School District. MORE STORIES ON EDUCATING CNY Applying for college in a pandemic: Theres still plenty of time to make things work 7 F-M staff members got coronavirus through meetings, social interactions at school, county says After long delays to schedule student coronavirus tests at NBT Stadium, Upstate adds online scheduling Syracuse schools to open Oct. 5 with 12,000 desk partitions, 14,000 face shields Complete education coverage on syracuse.com EBRD provides US$10 mln to Ukraines agro holding Astarta Application of modern agricultural technologies Specialised training for sector specialists The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is supporting operations of its long-standing client Astarta, one of the largest vertically integrated agro industrial holdings in Ukraine, during the coronavirus pandemic by extending the working capital facility approved in 2018. A 2-year US$10 million loan to the Ukrainian operator of over 230,000 hectares of arable farm land, sugar plants, a soybean processing factory and dairy farms will help it implement plans related to the introduction of the precision farming. Astarta is applying these modern agricultural technologies to improve crop yields and reduce the use of mineral fertilisers by 15 per cent. The company is offering a specialised training programme to high school graduates and students willing to work in the agribusiness sector in Ukraine as part of this project. The EBRD launched two Solidarity Packages in response to the Covid-19 crisis and now expects to dedicate its total business investment of up to 21 billion in 2020-21 to overcoming the economic impact of the crisis. The EBRD is the largest international financial investor in Ukraine. To date, the Bank has made a cumulative commitment of almost 15 billion through 466 projects in the country. CRPF personnel injured Srinagar: Two CRPF personnel were injured as militants attacked security forces party in Nowgam area of the city here on Monday, police said. Militants opened fire near Kandizal Bridge in Nowgam area of Srinagar this afternoon, a police official said. Advertisement CRPF personnel injured He said two CRPF personnel were injured in the firing. The injured have been shifted to the Army's 92 base hospital, the official said, adding that further details are awaited. Protesters rally Saturday outside the CNN building in Hollywood. (Associated Press) Protesters rallied over the weekend outside media offices in Hollywood and onto freeways in the latest demonstrations calling attention to violence in a contested area in the southern Caucasus that has become the subject of renewed fighting between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the past week. Dozens of civilians have been killed since Sept. 27, officials in both countries say, in the biggest escalation in the decades-old conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh which Armenians call by its historic name, Artsakh since the 1990s. The tiny mountainous enclave is recognized internationally as part of Azerbaijan, but its population of about 150,000 is majority ethnic Armenian, and it is financially backed by Armenia. The demonstrations Saturday and Sunday came together spontaneously on social media and drew about 500 participants to the CNN building, where they gathered outside and called for broadcast outlets to provide more accurate coverage of the conflict. Activists also marched onto the 101 and 170 freeways, blocking traffic, according to the California Highway Patrol. If theres a problem here, its the false equivalence international media has drawn toward Armenia and Azerbaijan, said Alex Galitsky, communications director for the Armenian National Committee of America, Western Region. Armenia is acting out of self-defense to preserve the existence of its people, and Azerbaijan is acting out of aggression. Armenians say the conflict was instigated by Azerbaijan with the backing of Turkey after months of planning. Many described it as a push to finish the Armenian genocide begun by Turkey's precursor, the Ottoman Empire, in 1915. They say Turkey has sent paid Islamic State mercenaries from Syria to fight in the region, a claim that has been backed by the leaders of France and Russia. And they characterize both Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenia as tiny Christian and Democratic strongholds that are being attacked by much richer and stronger Muslim and authoritarian nations in a display of brute force. Story continues Turkey has publicly sided with Azerbaijan but has denied sending fighters to the area. Mayor Eric Garcetti on Sunday said: "We stand with the people of Armenia. I urge our leaders in Washington to conduct the sustained and rigorous diplomacy necessary to bring peace to the Artsakh region. Turkey must disengage." The conflict has galvanized the Armenian community in Los Angeles, which is home to more Armenians than any city other than the capital of Armenia, Galitsky said. "Many of those in our community are descendants of Armenian genocide survivors," he said. "As a result, they see whats happening as very much a continuation of what was done 105 years ago." The majority of Armenians here know people who are fighting on the front lines of the conflict, and they've also seen tension spill over into the diaspora community, with armed Azerbaijani counterprotesters attending a pro-Armenian demonstration in July, he said. "Our community is so united around this issue and so united in their condemnation of Azerbaijan," Galitsky said, "but also in the belief that what Azerbaijan represents is an existential threat to Armenian people, and there is a need for our entire community internationally to rally around our nation and do whatever we can to support it." Shortly after 10 p.m. Saturday, some protesters spilled onto the 101 Freeway near Sunset Boulevard. They dispersed less than an hour later, said Chris Baldonado, public information officer with the California Highway Patrol. No arrests were made. A group of protesters camped outside the CNN building overnight, and some remained there Sunday afternoon. They said they planned to continue demonstrating until they saw fair news coverage. Another rally was held Sunday evening in Glendale. Protesters rally Saturday outside the CNN building in Hollywood. Some spilled out to the 101 Freeway. (Alex Galitsky) Were doing everything possible to fight the Azerbaijani propaganda war machine, which is basically spewing lies across different media outlets, said Raffi Kassabian, vice chair of the Armenian National Committee of America, Western Region. We want to make sure the world is aware of both Turkey and Azerbaijans neo-Ottomanism, which is an ethnic cleansing of Armenians to basically drive them off historical Armenian land. Protesters are also calling on the international community to clearly side with Armenia and to condemn Azerbaijan and Turkey for perpetrating human rights abuses, rather than simply calling for both sides to come to the table and negotiate. Though the conflict concerns an enclave thats only about 1 times the size of Yosemite National Park, it has far-reaching implications. Russia is friendly with both Armenia and Azerbaijan but has a defense alliance with Armenia, as well as a military base there. Still, Armenia is unlikely to call on Russia for help, as it has tried to distance itself from the superpower since Armenias Democratic revolution in 2018, said Tamara Voskanian, a Los Angeles Armenian-American ethics attorney and advocate. In turn, she said, the United States, Russia and other world powers have been hesitant to get involved because they dont want to be dragged into what could become an all-out war. They are also distracted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the fresh upheaval President Trumps illness has heaped on the upcoming U.S. election, she said. The timing is awful, she said. With the attention of the global community diverted elsewhere, Azerbaijan has staged displays of aggression that include shelling civilians in Stepanakert, the capital of Nagorno-Karabakh, Voskanian said. I truly do believe there are war crimes being committed, Voskanian said. Theyre not trying to hit military targets theyre trying to hit people. Azerbaijan has also accused Armenia of targeting civilians and claims that it instigated the conflict. Azerbaijan is defending itself, its civilian population, on its own soil and with its own armed forces, Nasimi Aghayev of the Consulate General of Azerbaijan in Los Angeles said late Saturday in a videotaped statement. He denied that religion has played a role in the conflict and described portrayals of it as such as propaganda advanced by Armenia and its allies. The racist and white supremacist propaganda promoted by Armenia and their allies, with which they intend to cash in on the already divisive environment and Islamophobic prejudices, must be condemned by everyone who believe that such dangerous bigotry and intolerance have no place in Europe, U.S. or anywhere else, Aghayev said. The conflict dates back decades. Nagorno-Karabakh gained autonomous status in the Soviet era, but its struggle to break away from Azerbaijan outright began even before the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union. Fighting from 1988 onward killed about 30,000 people and displaced 1 million. That battle ended with a 1994 cease-fire and de facto self-rule. Violent flare-ups have occurred periodically, including in 2016, when clashes left at least 200 people dead, as well as in July and August. For Armenians, the fight is one to maintain control of their ancestral homeland. If we lose Artsakh, we lose, really, the heart of present-day Armenia, Voskanian said. She noted that most Armenians around the world were displaced by ethnic cleansing, with roughly 10 million living outside their home country, compared with 3 million within it. For Azerbaijan, this is about a notch on a belt, a territory, bragging rights, pride and maintaining dictatorship, Voskanian said. For Armenians, its about way more than that. Its about keeping the tiny percentage of land that we have left, because without that, we dont know how were going to survive as a people around the world. Times staff writer Laura King contributed to this report. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Imperial Valley News Center Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband and Michigan U.S. Attorneys on Michigan Supreme Court Ruling Striking Down Governor Whitmers Pandemic-Related Orders Washington, DC - Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Eric Dreiband, U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider for the Eastern District of Michigan, and U.S. Attorney Andrew Birge for the Western District of Michigan issued the following statements: Todays decision by the Michigan Supreme Court is a victory for all Michiganders and the rule of law, said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. The United States Constitution guarantees a republican form of government to every state in our free country. The Constitution does not permit any public official unlawfully to restrict our liberty. All public officials must respect the right of the people to govern themselves at all times, especially during a crisis. On June 23, we wrote to Governor Whitmer and urged her to work cooperatively with the Michigan Legislature to reopen Michigan safely and address the multitude of concerns that Michiganders have had about the restrictions on their liberties, said United States Attorney Matthew Schneider. The best solutions for preserving our liberties and keeping us safe involve listening to the people of Michigan, and this decision by the Michigan Supreme Court upholding the rule of law now allows that to happen. While the Governor has had the publics health interests at heart, this decision underscores the importance of a legislature to the legitimacy of restrictions on liberty, said United States Attorney Andrew Birge. I urge the Governor and Michigan legislators to work together going forward in responding to this pandemic so that we stay safe and free. Background On June 23, 2020, Assistant Attorney General Dreiband, U.S. Attorney Schneider, and Birge wrote to Governor Whitmer to express their concerns about the Governors restrictions on the civil rights and liberties of the People of Michigan as part of her response to the COVID-19 pandemic: We write in the spirit of constructive cooperation to suggest greater cooperation with the Michigan legislature. Michiganders have raised numerous good-faith concerns about the orders you have issuedabout whether they are authorized under state law, infringe on constitutional rights, or draw arbitrary and irrational distinctions among authorized and unauthorized economic activities. Working with the state legislature to reopen Michigan safely will relieve the public of concerns about the EMA and ensure greater representation of the people in matters that have serious consequences for their liberty. Such cooperation may also help identify any potential constitutional concerns with existing and any future orders. Further, and perhaps most importantly, working with the state legislature will affirm that Michigan and its public officials remain committed to the Republican Form of Government mandated by the United States Constitution. U.S. Const., Art. IV, 4. On May 29, 2020, the Department of Justice filed a statement of interest in a Michigan federal court in support of a lawsuit filed by seven businesses challenging the restrictions imposed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. That statement of interest explained that the governors COVID-19 orders, however well-intentioned, raised constitutional concerns by imposing what appeared to be arbitrary and unreasonable limits on how and ultimately whether certain businesses could operate in Michigan relative to other similarly situated businesses. The statement of interest also explained that the federal Constitution provides for a cohesive national economy for all 50 states and all Americans and that the governors COVID-19 orders may be unduly interfering with interstate commerce. Matthew Schneider, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan, and Assistant Attorney General Dreiband, are overseeing the Justice Departments effort to monitor state and local policies relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. A proposed grant program that would provide 500,000 Pennsylvania K-12 students with $1,000 to spend on education expenses was vetted by the Pennsylvania Senate Education Committee on Monday. The program is viewed by supporters as a lifeline for students at risk of falling behind in their schooling due to schools COVID-19-related switch to remote learning. But others see it as a foot in the door that will lead to a full-fledged school voucher program. They argue there are better uses for that $500 million that it proposes to spend. Among their suggestions, using it to help school districts with their unanticipated pandemic-related costs and an estimated $1 billion in lost revenue due to the pandemic. Or they recommend putting the money toward extending internet service to rural and underserved communities or to provide resources to serve students and staffs physical and mental health needs arising from stresses caused by the coronavirus. Senate Bill 1230, sponsored by Sen. Judy Ward, R-Blair County, proposes to use about half of the unspent federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act funding Pennsylvania received to create what she calls the Back on Track education savings account program. It would initially target the grants placed in accounts at the state Treasury to children who qualify for free- and reduced-price lunches. Any money leftover would be made available to other families on a first-come, first-served basis. The money could be used for a restricted list of education-related items such as tutoring, services for students with disabilities, computers, counseling, and private school tuition. At Mondays Senate committee hearing, Ward said the bill is intended to provide parents with money to buy whatever their children need to avoid falling behind academically regardless of where they are educated. This would help students in public schools make up for lost schooling through tutoring online programs or other educational services. There are also kids who currently are in private school who will have trouble staying there due to reduced family incomes, Ward said. An additional $1,000 can be extremely helpful to a family struggling to meet tuition obligations. It is that latter use of the funds that raises real red flags for many of us, said Pennsylvania State Education Association President Rich Askey. He participated on a panel with officials from organizations representing school business officers, administrators and school boards, all of whom voiced opposition to Wards bill. Askey said calling them education savings accounts masks what they are really are: school voucher schemes that drive public funds to private education entities. He said that may not be Wards intent but thats the potential impact her bill has. The impact is one of harm, the harm of a statutory foothold for a broader expansion of school vouchers in Pennsylvania, Askey said. Further, Eric Eshbach, assistant executive director of the Pennsylvania Principals Association, said the way he sees it, this bill creates winners and losers in that it would only serve about a quarter of Pennsylvanias schoolchildren. He said his group thinks it would be best to invest that $500 million in a public works project to study and build a broadband network that would be free for students in rural and underserved areas. Other panelists maintained there is little in the way of accountability built into the bill to ensure the money is spent as intended. Further, they argued that it would be more beneficial to ensure school districts that educate the bulk of Pennsylvanias students have the resources they need to get students back on track. But Colleen Hroncich , senior policy analyst for the conservative Commonwealth Foundation, expressed disappointment at their arguments. Colleen Hroncich, senior policy analyst of the Harrisburg-based Commonwealth Foundation, said she finds it interesting that opponents of the education savings account proposal suggest it will lead to a mass exodus of students from public schools. Oct. 5, 2020 Screenshot from Pa. Senate website She said schools, day cares, hospitals, nursing homes, all already received some government-funded COVID-19 relief assistance. This bill seeks to create a program to help all families regardless of what school type their children are in to get the help they need. Thats what Back on Track is all about, said Hroncich, who participated on a panel with a mother of four, and representatives from parochial schools and school choice groups. As for those who raised concerns about it opening the door to school vouchers, Hroncich said, Lets be real. Back on Track grants are a one-time deposit of $1,000. Thats not going to drive a mass exodus from public schools . Its very interesting that they fear that it will. Ashley DeMauro Mullins, northeast regional legislative director for ExcelinEd, a school reform advocacy group, said in her view, what this bill does is direct help to families who may not have the financial resources to obtain the tools their children need. Pennsylvania isnt alone in proposing the use of federal CARES dollars to get these resources into the hands of families, DeMauro Mullins said. Oklahoma and Idaho, for example, are doing something similar to what Senate Bill 1230 seeks to do. She added: I hope that youll agree that putting the needs of students first, and using these dollars to minimize learning loss is a critical investment that we cant afford not to make right now. Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JanMurphy. After years of sustained growth, including six contract awards with the potential of hundreds of millions of dollars in new business, Rite-Solutions has appointed two new Vice Presidents. Susan Borden was promoted to VP of Human Resources. Dan Raposo is the new VP of Corporate Infrastructure & Standards. The new positions will help Rite-Solutions manage its continued growth and meet its customers' needs in the future. Ms. Borden was a Systems Analyst in 2004, before transitioning to Human Resources. Today she is responsible for the development and execution of the human resources strategy for Rite-Solutions. Ms. Bordens biggest priority is filling over 24 open positions ranging from senior accountants to systems engineers. It has been exciting to be part of the companys growth while nurturing our corporate culture, based on being One of F.E.W. which stands for Friends Enjoying Work, says Borden. I look forward to continuing to develop our employee family and our Human Resources infrastructure to ensure that Rite-Solutions will always be a place where people want to work. Mr. Raposo started with Rite-Solutions in 2001 as an application specialist. Before his promotion, he was responsible for managing the IT infrastructure while establishing policies and procedures to keep the companys infrastructure compliant with rigid DOD contractor standards. Developing my professional skills in a culture-rich environment allowed me to grow as an employee, co-worker, friend, and person, says Raposo. The promotion to VP allows me to share my experiences with a strong technical team to help Rite-Solutions remain an industry leader in the small to mid-sized business sector, especially in the fast-paced and challenging cybersecurity realm. "Given their time with the company, both Ms. Borden and Mr. Raposo have a deep understanding of the Rite-Solutions culture and customers," notes Dennis McLaughlin, Rite-Solutions President and CEO. "They represent the next generation of leadership for Rite-Solutions." Rite-Solutions, Inc. is an award-winning small business specializing in system engineering, software development, information technology (IT), and cyber security for government and commercial segments. Rite-Solutions has offices in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Washington D.C. For more information, please visit http://www.rite-solutions.com. By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 10/02/2020 ADVERTISEMENT FOLLOW REALITY TV WORLD ON THE ALL-NEW GOOGLE NEWS! Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source! ADVERTISEMENT Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade. star Jaclyn Schwartzberg and her fiance Dane have tied the knot!Jaclyn, who appeared on Season 6 of , shared photos and a video from her wedding on Instagram this week, and she couldn't seem happier."Awe what a week thanks y'all for the sweetest messages. I am really lucky to have this man, family and friends by my side. Never take my loves for granted," Jaclyn tweeted on Thursday.Along with her October 1 tweet, Jaclyn posted four photos from her wedding day.Jaclyn wore a strapless form-fitting gown with a lace sweetheart neckline. She gently pulled her hair back into a curled half-up, half-down style, and her groom looked handsome in a suit and bow tie.The couple appeared to have a simple outdoor ceremony with beams of wood set up for an altar and buckets of baby's breath at the beginning of each aisle with white rose petals spread along the aisle.Earlier this week, Jaclyn posted a photo from her wedding in which she and Dane were walking down the aisle with their arms raised in the air in celebration after being declared husband and wife."No words to express how thankful I am for all the amazing people in my life, I love you all so so much. And all of your sweet messages, so much love my heart can't handle it!#justmarried #ido #family," Jaclyn wrote alongside the image with three pink heart emojis.In addition to the picture in which Jaclyn was beaming ear to ear, she also uploaded a six-minute video from her ceremony in which she and Dane exchanged vows. She captioned it, "Wedding."In her vows, Jaclyn can faintly be heard saying that her husband accepts her for who she is and what she has done in the past. She promised to always make Dane feel loved, as he has done for her.The couple shared several kisses after saying "I do" and her bridesmaids apparently wore light pink or peach dresses.Many stars commented on Jaclyn's new married status on Instagram."CONGRATULATIONS!!" gushed MAFS expert Pastor Calvin Roberson. "Jaclyn, you deserve the best life has to offer. Tell your hubby he's a lucky man!"Former MAFS expert Dr. Jessica Griffin wrote, "Congratulations my dear. You look stunning and more importantly SO happy. Wish you all the happiness you deserve and I'm know he is as sweet to you as you are to everyone around you."Jessica, who is engaged to Season 6 participant Jonathan Francetic , had served as one of the matchmaking experts on Jaclyn's season.Season 1 MAFS star Jamie Otis commented, "CONGRATS JACLYN!"And Shawniece Jackson , who co-starred on Jaclyn's MAFS season, wrote, "Congrats," along with an emoji of two swirling hearts.Jaclyn announced her engagement to Dane in May 2019 after he proposed during an Italian getaway."Im more emotional in a good way these days. I have always just wanted to feel this loved by someone. You were worth the 30 now 31 ;) years to find it," Jaclyn wrote on Instagram at the time.Jaclyn first posted a photo with Dane on Instagram in November 2018, but she didn't announce whether they were actually dating -- although she dropped hints by writing how he's "adorable" and she's "lucky" to have him in her life.Jaclyn and Dane's romance was publicly confirmed in early January 2019 when Dane tagged along for Jaclyn's New Year's Eve outing with her fellow alums Mia Bally Molly Duff , and Amber Martorana in Scottsdale, AZ, where Jaclyn was apparently living at the time.Dane appeared to take most of the girls' photos from the evening that were posted on Instagram, and when a friend asked Mia about the man in the photos, Mia replied on her own account, "Jackies bf."Jaclyn's season of was filmed in Boston and wrapped in early 2018.Jaclyn was shown tying the knot with Boston firefighter Ryan Buckley , and the pair decided to stay married on "Decision Day."However, Reality TV World reported in May 2018 Jaclyn and Ryan had apparently split and were living separate lives , and then a source confirmed to People the following month they had filed for divorce in June Jaclyn and Ryan both appeared very committed to their marriage and the experiment when they starred on , but Ryan refused to give up time with his guy friends and nights of partying while Jaclyn hoped to travel and live a gypsy-type of life when Ryan desired putting down local roots.Jaclyn and Ryan's different lifestyles and long-term goals caused tension between them, and frequent time apart due to Ryan's career also contributed to the demise of their relationship.'s eleventh season is currently airing on Wednesday nights at 8PM ET/PT on Lifetime.Interested in more news? Join our Married at First Sight Facebook Group Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 17:05 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4933210 1 National Yahukimo,Papua,National-Police,Polri,police,murder,murder-case,killing,separatists,TPNPB,West-Papua,West-Papua-Liberation-Army Free The police have arrested a suspect allegedly linked to the killing of Muhammad Thoyib, 39, a worker at a furniture shop whose body was found with stab and arrow wounds in Dekai district, Yahukimo regency, Papua, on Aug. 20. We have arrested a suspect identified by the initials YM in the murder case, the National Polices public information bureau head, Brig. Gen. Awi Setiyono, said in a written statement on Monday as quoted by kompas.com. The case was part of a series of killings that took place in Yahukimo in August. Almost a week after Thoyibs death, brick delivery worker Yauzan aka Ocang, 34, was found dead at the Kali Buatan Bridge in Dekai district on Aug. 26. The police said that they suspected that the two cases were intended to divert their focus away from the killing of Yahukimo General Elections Commission staffer Hendry Jovinski on Aug. 11. Awi said the police were still hunting for the alleged mastermind behind the killings, Ananias Yalak alias Senat Soll, a former TNI member who was dishonorably discharged from the military for allegedly selling ammunition to an armed separatist group. Read also: Indonesia forms team to probe recent shootings in Papua, but state rights body excluded The polices Nemangkawi task force has also arrested members of an armed criminal group in three separate cases: one over the possession of a sharp weapon, one for allegedly burning a Bank Rakyat Indonesia ATM and two others over treason. Previously, Papua Police chief Insp. Gen. Paulus Waterpauw said Senat had joined the armed group and declared himself the leader of the West Papua National Liberation Armys (TPNPB) 3rd Regional Defense Command (Kodap). Paulus alleged that Senat was behind several criminal acts that took place in Dekai district with the help of several young men who had dropped out of school. Paulus added that the efforts to arrest the perpetrators had been hindered by the limited telecommunications network in Dekai district, making it difficult for the police to coordinate. (syk) By Laraib Fatima and Aafreen Khan, TwoCircles.net The internet is no stranger to trolls and abuse and is a powerful tool in the hands of online mobs. Recently, a smear campaign was run by OpIndia to vilify Hussain Haidry, a poet and lyricist. The online mob started a hashtag to boycott my film. Eventually, I had to delete my Twitter account because people were threatening the director as well as me, Haidry recounts. Support TwoCircles It becomes scary because the troll army consists of real mobs who threaten you. My notification bar exploded. People who were trolling me have many followers and countering them comes with the fear of being attacked, Haidry added. This notion is a prime example of call-out culture which usually constitutes a form of social boycott. It fosters the idea of publicly shaming and cancelling each other for possessing and articulating different beliefs. Social ostracization of targeted communities and people over the internet has become a trend. The online mob gravitates towards people who do not speak in line with their ideology. All you need is a keyboard and a few followers, but the consequences for those targeted are devastating. When I gave a speech during the anti-CAA protest and urged students not to build the protest on religious lines, the IT cell twisted my words, shared a doctored and hateful video of my speech, says Arfa Khanum, an Editor with The Wire. The online trolling has shown that people who disagree and take a stand against the ruling regime should be prepared for the ruthless harassment snowball that comes in their way. The trolling continues even if they express opinions or post a harmless picture of a kitten. Through some cruel incidents of hate, troll, and abuse, this article tries to comprehend the differences in the barrage of threats various people suffer. How being vocal engenders social ostracization and cancel culture Cancelling someone is an organized way of denouncing someones credibility. Even for making an argument or to criticize people, the online mob comes with planned propaganda across varied platforms and intensifies hate. This, in turn, deliberately excludes the person from social interaction and is a major part of cancelling culture. The online mob conveniently spread disinformation, spew hatred. When Arfa got trolled in a campaign initiated by Kapil Mishra on an anonymous website, he accused her of being friends with Tahir Hussain. The online mobs agenda was to malign her identity. There have been depressing incidents where being vocal for the status quo got people to confront familial estrangement and rejection from friends. I dont have any contact with my school friends, apparently Im being discriminated against for being too harsh, said Haidry. Social ostracization comes with silent rejection in both the virtual and real world. Nabiya Khan, a poet and activist says, My best friend thinks I am hateful because of my opinions and regular involvement in protests. Getting rape threats for being vocal on social media Recently, the case of comedian Agrima Joshua underlines the toxic patriarchal conditioning of our society. This is a very suitable example of jobless men casually intimidating women on social media. Ekabali Ghosh, an M.Phil research scholar and activist, collaborated in a campaign Kolkata for Kashmiris after the February 2019 Pulwama attack. I was trolled badly by the IT cell. I got blatant rape and death threats, Ghosh told TwoCircles.net. The spiral of silence theory states how people wish to express their beliefs is dictated by popular and unpopular opinions as those who hold a minority view are often scared of being isolated and threatened. The trolls were filled with rape and death threats. People even threatened me via emails and calls, says Arfa. Subsequently, she was trolled for three days on social media. Social media is an unpredictable place. One minute you share memes and the next, spew venom. There is not a single post or tweet where people dont abuse me. However, I received horrid abuses and threats on the day of the Ayodhya Bhoomi Poojan ceremony, says Nabiya. The violent mob mentality There are plenty of discourses on how rumours turn people into bloodthirsty mobs. The online mob is the extended version of the real-life mob we see around us. The presence of an online mob goes back to the time before social media, where the drawing-room conversations were communal, misogynist, and sexist. We have always been communal as a society. We now have a better way to show this venom and get away with it. Meghnad says, There are political connections to it. When in a rally a politician shouts Desh ke gaddaro ko goli maaro saalon ko he knows that he will get the validation he seeks for his viciousness. A powerful mechanism keeps fuelling the mob mentality because divisiveness and hate is the easiest thing to unite people over. Besides, a lot of individual trolls are working on the behest of various power mongers. Revati Laul, an independent journalist says, Recently when a book on Delhi riots, that seemed to be a PR job of the perpetrators was released, it created a furore. The book was withdrawn. So its not that there is zero reverse pressure. Meghnad added, If I am talking about the Delhi riots you cant come and ask me about where were you when the Kashmir genocide happened, I respond to them by saying I was one and a half year old. The online attacks have been intensified over the years. The trolls know that they will never be held accountable for the harm they do because of the vested political interest of the power mongers. Effect of trolls on mental health The devastating consequences of the trolling coerce a person to feel dissatisfaction and feelings of anger and irritation. I had sleepless nights. It comes with trauma and depression. In my case hardly two people called me to ask and this is disheartening, says Haidry. The results of trolling can be fatal and sometimes it drives vulnerable people to suicide also. Trolling lead to traumatic experiences and lowered self-esteem. Meghnad says, As a person on the receiving end it affected my mental health to an extent that I turned off my phone. I had an anxiety attack. I thought it to be very real to me and later I realized its not. The online trolls are driven by sinister motives and are part of a strategy where if one speaks against the regime is bullied. The phenomenon of trolling is a part of a strategy to undermine the politics that challenges majoritarianism. How different people react to it depends on them, says Revati. Coping mechanism Online trolls provide anonymity and leeway to be heinous and toxic. The coping mechanism in the matter of trolling and bullying is an interpersonal and cataclysmic process for people who experience it. I am getting used to this. Indeed constant threats do unsettle you, but then some friends are always there to inspire and keep me driving, says Nabiya. Trolling women is an extension of the misogynist and patriarchal society we live in. Women being harassed, abused and trolled is an attempt to silence their voices. I was depressed and got physically ill. When I had put this up on social media, people started laughing. Then, I stopped engaging online, Ekabali said. Coping from online trolls is isolating and exhausting. If you choose to speak against the regime or disagree about something, chances are high that you will get more brickbats. This kind of situation forces us to wonder, is this new kind of normal we have to accept or is there a way forward to better times? 'We have the perfect opportunity to reach a political settlement that serves all the political, security, economic and social aspects of the Libyan crisis' Egypt urged the international community on Monday to implement the conclusions of the Berlin Conference on Libya to push the Libyan parties to respect their commitments, Egypt's foreign minister Sameh Shoukry said during a teleconference with the UN and Germany as a follow-up meeting for the Berlin Conference. "We have the perfect opportunity to reach a political settlement that serves all the political, security, economic and social aspects of the Libyan crisis, taking into consideration the fair distribution of power and wealth, and to end foreign intervention and the threat of terrorists, mercenaries and foreign forces on Libyan territories," Shoukry said at the meeting. "I call on the international community to implement the Berlin conclusions through tangible measures to drive the Libyan parties to honour what everyone agreed on at the Berlin Conference and the UN Security Council, including a ceasefire, arms embargo, disbanding and disarming militias and combating terrorist organisations," he added. "We hope Egypt does not reach the point it has to protect its interests and national security in the way the president announced at Sidi Barani military base on 20 June. Egypt is continuing its efforts through communicating with the Libyans and coordinating with the UN and international community to restore security and stability in Libya," Shoukri said. On 20 June, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi stated Egypt will intervene in Libya militarily if Sirte and Jufra, which he had earlier described as a "red line", were crossed by Government of National Accord forces and allied militias. Nevertheless, Egypt has maintained that political reconciliation was the only way to end divisions in the war-torn neighbouring country. Last week, Egypt hosted a two-day round of talks under the auspices of the UN Support Mission in Libya in Hurghada concerning Libya's security and military affairs. The talks were attended by representatives from the Government of National Accord and the Libyan National Army. US Ambassador to Libya Richard Nolan praised the talks, saying they were successful. Shoukry said at the meeting on Monday the Cairo Declaration, issued on 6 June based on the conclusions of the Berlin Conference, was part of Egypt's diligent efforts to restore peace in Libya. Search Keywords: Short link: JEE Advanced 2020 | Around nine lakh examinees had registered for JEE (Mains) this year and out of them only 6.35 lakh appeared for the engineering entrance exam JEE Advanced 2020 | The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has declared the JEE (Advanced) 2020 result on its official website on Monday. Candidates who have appeared for the entrance exam will be able to check their results by visiting the official website of the exam at jeeadv.ac.in. Hindustan Times reported that about nine lakh examinees had registered for JEE (Mains) this year and out of them only 6.35 lakh appeared for the engineering entrance exam that was conducted between 1 and 6 September. The report cited a Ministry of Education statistic that said there was a significant dip in attendance in the exam session. While the attendance rate was 94.32 per cent in January, it went down to 74 per cent in the April/ September session exam. The April session exam was postponed twice due to the coronavirus pandemic. Candidates can check their results by following these steps: Step 1: Visit the official website Step 2: Click on the tab on the homepage that says: JEE (Advanced) 2020 Result Step 3: Enter your login details and click on the 'Submit' button Step 4: A new page will open carrying your result Step 5: View, download and take a print out of the scorecard for future use According to India Today, a total of 1,60,831 students registered for the JEE Advanced 2020 that was held on 27 September. This was after nearly 2.45 lakh candidates qualified to appear for the exam as per the JEE Mains 2020 results. Out of all the registered candidates, 96 per cent of them appeared for the JEE Advanced 2020, reported Zee News. As many as 1,51,311 candidates wrote Paper 1 while 1,50,900 candidates appeared for the Paper 2 of JEE Advanced 2020. Alysse Gafkjen/ABC It's an exciting day for country music fans: The Country Music Association has announced that Darius Rucker and Reba McEntire will host the 54th annual CMA Awards from Nashville on Wednesday, November 11, at 8 p.m. on ABC. The South Carolina native (Rucker) and Okie (McEntire) take the helm from Carrie Underwood who served as the host for the past 12 years. The show will take place from Music City Center in downtown Nashville. Im thrilled to be back hosting the CMA Awards and even more thrilled that I get to share the stage with Darius Rucker, said McEntire in a CMA press release. Were looking forward to a night of celebrating great Country Music and hope youll tune in and watch! I look forward to the CMA Awards every year because of the incredible performances and the opportunity to celebrate the year in Country Music, said Rucker in the same media statement. To be invited to host this years awards alongside Rebaare you kidding me?!it is an absolute honor. Even though this year will look a little different than normal, I know that were all eager for a night of musical celebration, and this years show definitely wont disappoint! During a trying year when we need country music perhaps more than ever, we're glad to see these two country stars at the helm. As a five-time host of the CMA Awards, McEntire jokes to her rookie co-host in their video announcement of the news, "Do you know what you're getting yourself into?" Watch the full video below. We are beyond thrilled to welcome Reba and Darius as this years CMA Awards hosts, said Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer in the press release. Their playful chemistry and genuine warmth are exactly what we know our viewers want to see this year. We look forward to bringing fans a night of celebration, live performances and a television experience unlike any other. We cannot wait to share more details about our show in the coming weeks. Story continues WATCH: Darius Rucker Thinks Nothing Beats a Sullivan's Island Sunset Darius Rucker Thinks Nothing Beats a Sullivan's Island Sunset Plus, his favorite Myrtle Beach memories and meal in the Palmetto State. We're already counting down the days to November 11. We can only hope it's the start of many more laughter-filled, joyous days ahead. Today is Monday, Oct. 5. Here's what Patch has been covering south of Boston and on the Cape and Islands today. Falmouth High School shifted to fully remote learning Monday after a group of students threw a party over the weekend, school officials said. Principal Mary Gans said the party was in Woods Hole, and students who attended didn't wear mask or practice social distancing. "I am profoundly disappointed that Falmouth High School students would put our school community at risk during a public health crisis, especially after all of the hard work and planning we have done to ensure that the school year would start off safe and healthy for all," Gans said in a statement." Read more here. Top Stories: South of Boston 3 People, 1 Dog Injured In Crash, Following Foxboro Police Chase Three people and a dog suffered serious injuries when a minivan being chased by Foxborough police crashed head on into another vehicle, police said. Police said the chase started around noon Sunday after a report of shoplifting at the CVS Pharmacy at Patriot Place. Officers were given a description of two suspects and were told the suspects were driving a blue Chrysler minivan. Shortly after the call, police saw the minivan pass them in the opposite direction on North Street. When the officer turned his cruiser around, police said the minivan took off speeding out of the officer's line of sight. Less than a half mile up the road, police said they found the suspects were involved in a two-car crash. The officer didn't see the crash, but the preliminary investigation revealed that the minivan crashed head on with a Honda Ridgeline. Foxborough Firefighters Battle Massive Fire At Old Mill via Foxborough fire Firefighters battled heavy flames and had to use thousands of feet of hose to extinguish a fire at a converted mill Sunday morning. At 6 a.m., firefighters initially thought they were being called to Morse Street for a burning utility pole. But on their way to the scene, fire officials said they found other poles and a ground transformer on fire, as well as a mobile home and the converted mill building. Story continues A second alarm was struck, and fire officials called crews from Mansfield, Norton, Wrentham, Norfolk, Walpole and Sharon to help battle the blaze. Fire officials said crews had to use over 2,000 feet of hose to get water from fire hydrants and extinguish the flames. Coronavirus Closes Milton School For 2 Weeks Pierce Middle School was forced to close for at least two weeks following three confirmed coronavirus cases amongst students and staff. Parents and staff were sent a latter Sunday telling them the school would close to allow those with COVID-19 and those that came in contact with them time to quarantine. Interim Superintendent James Jette said the school had to cancel classes because the cases forced too many teachers to quarantine. "With three positive cases of COVID-19 at the Pierce within the past five days and the subsequent quarantine requirements of close contacts, we do not have the necessary staffing to safely keep the building open and adequately educate students in the hybrid model," Jette wrote. Across Massachusetts Today Chemical Leak Prompts Evacuation At Boston College Police said a liter bottle of hydrogen-sulphide leaked into a lab vent. Regal Cinemas Are Closing Again, Shuttering All 10 MA Theaters The news comes shortly after another Hollywood blockbuster was delayed until next year. Ed Markey, Kevin O'Connor Ready For Lone U.S. Senate Debate Markey's race against a little-known Republican newcomer couldn't be more different from his primary victory against U.S. Rep. Joe Kennedy. This article originally appeared on the Falmouth Patch Kerala's Kumbalangi to be first synthetic pad-free village in India How Kerala Police CCSE under Cyberdome is fighting crimes against children Kerala actress assault case: Dileep gets interim relief, told to appear for interrogation Gold smuggling case: Swapna Suresh gets bail as chargesheet not filed in stipulated time India oi-Deepika S Kochi, Oct 05: Swapna Suresh, the prime accused in the gold smuggling case in Kerala, was on Monday granted bail by a court here in a case registered by the Customs as the agency did not file a charge sheet within the stipulated period of 60 days. Suresh, however, will continue to remain behind bars as she is an accused in the alleged terror link of the gold smuggling case probed by the National Investigation Agency. She is also an accused in a case registered by the Enforcement Directorate in connection with the money trail of the illegal trade. Kerala Gold Smuggling: Suspended IAS officer appears before customs The special court on Economic Offences granted statutory bail to Suresh as the Customs (Preventive) Commmissionerate did not file a charge sheet within the stipulated period of 60 days. Hathras Case: UP Police files 19 FIRs, ink thrown at AAP MP Sanjay Singh | Oneindia News According to the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), an accused is entitled to default bail if a charge sheet is not filed within 60-90 days as per the offence. Earlier, the other key accused in the case, including Rameez and Sandeep Nair, were also granted default bail in the case being investigated by the Customs. The smuggling came to the fore when Customs (Preventive) Commissionerate, Kochi, seized 30 kg of gold worth Rs 14.82 crore found camouflaged in diplomatic baggage from the UAE on July 5. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 18:56:29|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Photo taken on Oct. 4, 2020 shows a beach after a storm in Saint-Laurent-du-Var, near France's southern costal city of Nice. Flash floods that struck France's southeast region of Alpes-Maritimes over the weekend have so far left two people dead and 20 others missing, local authorities said on Monday. (Photo by Serge Haouzi/Xinhua) PARIS, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Flash floods that struck France's southeast region of Alpes-Maritimes over the weekend have so far left two people dead and 20 others missing, local authorities said on Monday. Speaking to France Info radio, Charles-Ange Ginesy, president of the departmental council of Alpes-Maritimes, expressed fears that human casualties would increase. "I fear, indeed, that the death toll will be heavier gradually as searches progress," he said. "We are constantly looking (for missing people), with all these collapsed houses." As the storm Alex hit the French Riviera's coasts, a rainfall of 500 mm fell on Friday in Saint-Martin-Vesubie and nearly 400 mm of rain hit several other towns -- the equivalent of more than three months of rain at this time of the year, causing water levels to rise at an unprecedented rate, Meteo France said. Some 1,000 rescuers and 12 helicopters have been deployed to carry out rescue operations in the affected areas. French President Emmanuel Macron will visit the stricken region this week, local media said. Enditem Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate a five-day global virtual summit on Artificial Intelligence (AI) at 7 pm on October 5. The Responsible AI for Social Empowerment (RAISE 2020) summit will be organized by the Government of India in partnership with Industry and Academia. Looking forward to address The Responsible AI for Social Empowerment (RAISE) 2020) Virtual Summit at 7 pm this evening. This Summit brings together tech leaders from across the world to discuss aspects relating to AI. Do watch! PM Modi tweeted on October 5. In June, India joined the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) as a founding member to support responsible and human-centric development and the use of AI. With this, India joined the league of leading nations and economies including the United States, the United Kingdom, EU, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, and Singapore for the launch of GPAI. Here are the key points about the RAISE 2020 summit: > RAISE 2020 is a virtual global summit on AI, which begins from October 5 and ends on October 9. Sessions will be conducted between 10.30 am to 9 pm each day. > Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the summit will be hosted online virtually, which can be accessed upon registration. > People, who want to attend the summit, can register on the official website of RAISE 2020 i.e. raise2020.indiaai.gov.in with a valid email address to receive the link for the event. All sessions of the event will be accessible free of cost. > The summit would be a global meeting of minds to exchange ideas and charter a course to use AI for social empowerment, inclusion, and transformation in key areas like Healthcare, Agriculture, Education and Smart Mobility amongst other sectors, according to the website. > The summit will witness participation from global industry leaders, key opinion makers, Government representatives, and academia. > The speakers of the five-day event include PM Modi, Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, CEO of NITI Aayog Amitabh Kant, chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries Limited Mukesh Ambani, CEO of IBM Arvind Krishna, president of FICCI and Joint Managing Director Apollo Hospitals Group Sangita Reddy and president of NASSCOM Debjani Ghosh among others. > The summit will feature some start-ups working in AI and related fields. : Reliance Industries Ltd. is the sole beneficiary of Independent Media Trust which controls Network18 Media & Investments Ltd Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Lisa Richwine (Reuters) Los Angeles, United States Mon, October 5, 2020 17:09 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4933610 2 News Disneyland,california,theme-park,coronavirus,COVID-19 Free California's health secretary on Friday agreed to hear more input from theme park operators before issuing reopening guidelines, a step that further delays Walt Disney Co's plans to welcome visitors back to Disneyland. Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger also resigned from a California task force on reopening businesses during the coronavirus pandemic, the Sacramento Bee newspaper reported late on Thursday. No reason was given and Disney did not respond to requests for comment. Earlier this week, Disney said the continued closure of Disneyland had exacerbated the financial strain on its parks division from the pandemic. The company, which is in the process of laying off 28,000 employees, has urged California to let Disneyland reopen. On Thursday, a trade group that represents Disneyland, Comcast Corp's Universal Studios and others, said it had reviewed California's draft guidelines and then asked the state to hear more recommendations from the industry. Read also: Disney appeal to California: 'It's time' to let Disneyland reopen On Friday, Dr. Mark Ghaly, California's health secretary, said he would continue talks with theme park operators. "Given the size and operational complexities of these unique sectors, we are seeking additional input from health, workforce and business stakeholders to finalize this important framework - all leading with science and safety," Ghaly said in a statement. Disneyland has been closed since March. The company had announced the resort would reopen on July 17 but later delayed the move indefinitely, saying it had to wait for the state's guidance. All other Disney theme parks, including Walt Disney World in Florida, have reopened with limited attendance, mask requirements and other safety measures. Today we are here to tell you something that most newspapers wont: Your vote doesnt really count. Oh, it counts in this years congressional elections, in the referendum on whether Virginia should adopt a constitutional amendment to ban partisan gerrymandering, in whatever local races are on the ballot (such as Roanoke mayor and city council). And, of course, it counts as part of a citizens fundamental rights in a democracy. So yes, everyone should vote. But your vote doesnt really count in the presidential race. The only people whose votes matter are those who live in the handful of states considered swing states. Your presidential vote in Virginia really doesnt matter, unless Virginia suddenly finds itself up for grabs. Republicans would like to think it is, but theres no real evidence to suggest that. The most compelling evidence of Virginias irrelevance is from the campaigns themselves. This isnt where either President Trump or Joe Biden are spending their time. In 2016, Donald Trump held at least six campaign events in Virginia between June and November. This year hes been here just once and his recent appearance in Newport News was partly aimed at being in a media market that reached eastern North Carolina, a state that does count this year. Hillary Clinton was here twice in 2016; Biden hasnt been here at all. This is a direct consequence of the Electoral College. Most Americans vote doesnt really count because they live in states whose outcome isnt in doubt. But your cousin in North Carolina or your aunt in Florida their votes are a lot more valuable than yours because those are states that could tip either way. Lets get one thing straight: The Electoral College isnt going to be abolished. That would require a constitutional amendment and its hard to see 38 states voting in favor of that. The Electoral College gives added weight to small states, which certainly arent going to give up that power. More to the point, its hard to see Republicans willing to give up that power since those small states tend to be Republican. It is, though, worth an academic discussion. For a long time, there really wasnt a difference between the popular vote and the electoral vote. Now, though, such splits are likely to become more common as the population grows in a handful of large, Democratic-voting states at a much faster rate than in smaller, Republican-voting states, some of which are actually shrinking. Is it good for American democracy if the popular vote winner routinely loses the electoral vote? This question becomes more uncomfortable when we consider that those large, Democratic-voting states are far more diverse than the small, overwhelmingly white states that get an extra bump in power through the Electoral College (which takes their House representation, which is based on population, and then adds two more votes). Why should white voters get a weighted advantage? For now, Republicans have a vested interest in defending the Electoral College. That wont be the case if and when Texas someday flips from red to blue (its been trending that direction). Granted, Newtons Third Law of Motion often applies to politics, too for every action there is an equal but opposite reaction. The difference is Democrats might pick up massive Texas (38 electoral votes and growing) while Republicans get Minnesota (10 electoral votes) instead not exactly an even trade. When that day comes, Republicans might conclude they are better off with the popular vote than the electoral vote. Its often argued that abolishing the electoral vote would render small states and rural voters meaningless. Thats not entirely true. Right now, theres really just one small state thats a battleground state New Hampshire. And rural voters now only matter depending on where they live rural voters in California and North Dakota are equally out of luck because those states votes are pre-ordained, while rural voters in North Carolina and other swing states matter a lot more. It is true, though, that the dynamics of a popular vote election would be very different than what we are accustomed to. Candidates from both parties would wind up campaigning in places they now dont bother to. Four years ago, Trumps best state in terms of actual number of votes received was Florida, where he polled 4,617,886 votes, enough to carry the state narrowly. Now, what was his second-best state? In terms of actual number of votes received, it was California. Trump won 4,483,810 votes there. Now keep in mind that Trump had no incentive four years ago to even try in California because he knew hed never carry the state. In a popular vote election, Trump or future Republicans would spend time in California, not to carry the state because that wouldnt matter but to squeeze out more votes from the states conservative voters. Likewise, theyd spend time in upstate New York. So far, that would seem to validate the argument that a popular vote system would give more attention to big states (just different big states than the ones that get attention now). However, Republicans would also want to spend time campaigning in parts of the South, the rural Midwest and the Rockies that are now foregone conclusions again, to drive more votes. Meanwhile, Democrats would have to go to places they dont now. Theyd certainly spend time in the South trying to motivate Black voters whose ballots now dont really make a difference in most Southern states. Theyd also want to harvest Democratic votes out of cities in states that are now reliably Republican for instance, St. Louis and Kansas City in Missouri. This would be a very different campaign than what were accustomed to every vote would matter, including yours. There are some hazards to a popular vote election that dont get much attention. Now, close calls are limited to individual states which means any recount would be limited to those states (think, Florida 2000). In a popular vote election, any recounts would have to be nationwide, with much more potential for controversy and mischief. How likely would a recount be? Lets apply Virginias rules which allow a recount if the margin is 1% or less. Out of 57 presidential elections, weve had six decided by margins that slim 10.5%. Those years were 1880, 1884, 1888, 1960, 1968 and 2000. Whats the greater risk to democracy a national recount, or a popular vote winner denied the presidency because their voters dont live in the right places? It was so disheartening to be extremely passionate about this work and to recognize and tell other people that voting is important and necessary to the health of our democracy, then to not be able to participate in it, the 21-year-old said, adding that when she called the county, officials told her they were not sure why her ballot never arrived. You have to think: If I was stopped from voting, who else was stopped from voting? Advertisement A charity boss is suing Laurence Fox after the actor labelled him and others 'paedophiles' during a bizarre online spat. Simon Blake, the deputy chair of LGBT charity Stonewall said in a Twitter statement on Monday that he was suing Fox for defamation. Earlier on Monday, Fox was embroiled in a heated exchange with a number of Twitter users which included Mr Blake and Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp. The Lewis star called them 'paedophiles' after they had claimed he was 'racist'. On Saturday, Fox had accused Sainsbury's of 'promoting racial segregation and discrimination' and promised to boycott the supermarket chain after it promoted Black History Month. As he faced a backlash for his views, he clapped back at people 'falsely accusing him of racism' by retaliating with unsubstantiated slurs calling them 'paedophiles'. Mr Blake then tweeted asking Fox to delete the 'untrue' slur but when Fox did not initially do so, he released a statement saying Fox had 'defamed' him and that he had instructed lawyers to pursue legal action. Simon Blake, the deputy chair of LGBT charity Stonewall, is suing Laurence Fox after the actor labelled him and others 'paedophiles' during a bizarre online spat Laurence Fox calls for a Twitter 'retract button' for people who say controversial things and then change their mind Laurence Fox suggested Twitter introduce a 'retract button' for people who say controversial things but then change their views today as he blasted a freedom of speech 'crisis'. The Lewis actor turned political activist attacked a 'totalitarian orthodoxy' which was marshalling people's views as he attended a Conservative Party Conference fringe event. He attacked Twitter because 'everything that everyone ever writes exists in perpetuity', and suggested it should have some changes to make it fairer and stop people being arrested for hate crimes. His attendance at a virtual fringe event on 'the free speech crisis' run by the IEA think tank, came the day after he labelled a fellow actor and social media users 'paedophiles' in a bizarre online spat. The actor is embroiled in a heated exchange with a number of Twitter users including Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp and deputy chair of Stonewall, Simon Blake, whom he called 'paedophiles' after they claimed he was 'racist'. He later deleted the tweets. Discussing the impact of social media on freedom of speech, Mr Fox, 42, said: 'I started mulling to myself this idea of whether Twitter should introduce a retract button where the tweet stays up but it just has a big stamp across the top saying this is retracted by the author. 'So you could watch the development of peoples thoughts, understand that their positions change and alter or something that they have made mistakes. 'And that may encourage us to be more free in our views rather than collectivising around any form of victimhood or any form of offence and then you agree we should motivate ourselves to collectivise around things that are really important like how we relate to each other, good manners, mutual respect He also blasted countries, including Israel, Germany and many others across Europe, which criminalise holocaust denial, saying it was important that the debunked conspiracy theory was openly challenged. He said: 'I personally think it is a dreadful idea that Holocaust denial is a crime in various places because how are you going to give someone an opportunity to air their ridiculous views without evidence, without giving someone else the opportunity to correct them?' While tweets can be deleted, they can easily be captured by other users as pictures, and often also can be found using Google. Mr Fox made headlines at the weekend when he accused Sainsbury's of 'promoting racial segregation and discrimination' and promised to boycott the supermarket chain after it promoted Black History Month. As he faced a backlash for his views, he clapped back at people 'falsely accusing him of racism' by retaliating with unsubstantiated slurs calling them 'paedophiles'. He has since removed the posts, writing: 'I have deleted the tweets posted yesterday, in response to being repeatedly, continuously and falsely smeared as a racist.' Advertisement He wrote: 'On Sunday afternoon I saw a tweet from Laurence Fox suggesting that he would stop shopping in Sainsbury's and calling on others to do the same. This was his reaction to Sainsbury's statement that they are an inclusive retailer. 'He suggested that Sainsbury's actively anti-racist stance is promoting racial segregation and discrimination. 'I disagreed strongly with his view and I expressed that in a tweet. Whilst I regret the unnecessary language I used, which is not in line with the way I like to conduct myself, I feel strongly about this issue. 'In response Mr Fox seriously defamed me and I have instructed Mark Lewis from Patron Law to sue for defamation. 'I want to make it absolutely clear that I will always stand against racism and will do my best to be a strong White ally. 'This is particularly important because we know the negative impact that racism and oppression has on the mental health and wellbeing of Black people and People of colour. Fox has since removed his posts, writing on Sunday: 'I have deleted the tweets posted yesterday, in response to being repeatedly, continuously and falsely smeared as a racist.' In response to Mr Blake's announcement of legal action, a spokesman for Fox's newly-formed political party, named Reclaim, told MailOnline: 'We note the stated intention and the judicious wording of the tweet. 'However, unless and until intent becomes reality, we have no further comment.' At the weekend Fox found himself in a fiery debate with former Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp after she said Fox was 'unequivocally, publicly and undeniably a racist'. He hit back: 'Any company giving future employment to Nicola Thorpe or providing her with a platform does so with the complete knowledge that she is unequivocally, publicly and undeniably a paedophile.[sic]' Fox said on Sunday: 'Language is powerful. To accuse someone of racism without any evidence whatsoever to back up that accusation is a deep slander. 'It carries the same stigma and reputation destroying harm as accusing someone of paedophilia. Here endeth the lesson.' The row comes after the actor, who recently announced he was launching his own political party to 'reclaim British values', denounced the supermarket on Twitter. He said: 'Dear Sainsbury's. I won't be shopping in your supermarket ever again whilst you promote racial segregation and discrimination. I sincerely hope others join me. RT' It came in the wake of Sainsbury's announcing they would be marking Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements of the black community, recognising the central role black people have played in history. The supermarket says its aim is to be 'the most inclusive retailer' where 'every single one of our colleagues feels safe and supported at work'. The company said it is actively pushing for change for black people in the UK and want all their customers and colleagues to be themselves and feel celebrated when they shop at Sainsbury's. In a statement, Sainsbury's said: 'We are proud to celebrate Black History Month, together with our Black colleagues, customers and communities and we will not tolerate racism. 'We proudly represent and serve our diverse society and anyone who does not want to shop with an inclusive retailer is welcome to shop elsewhere.' Mr Blake said Fox had defamed him and that he was pursuing legal action against him. He also said he regretted the language he used in his criticism of Fox's opposition to Sainsbury's Mr Blake earlier tweeted asking Fox to delete the 'untrue' slur. Fox had written, 'Pretty rich coming from a peadophile' Fox also found himself in a fiery debate with Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp Fox has since removed the posts, writing: 'I have deleted the tweets posted yesterday, in response to being repeatedly, continuously and falsely smeared as a racist.' Fox told his 239,000 Twitter followers that despite it being his closest supermarket, they would not be getting his custom until they 'address their regressive and segregationist policies'. His response sparked debate on Twitter with some backing his views while others said Sainsbury's tweet had had the desired effect. One wrote: 'Beautifully put! I cannot believe how wrong Sainsburys has got this. 'This idiocy has to have come down from Board level. Really feel for their staff - how the hell do they handle this?' Fox, who has been a fierce critic of the BBC, sparked controversy when he said suggestions of 'racism' over how the Duchess of Sussex was treated in some quarters was 'boring'. He also hit out at black and working class actors for complaining about the industry once they have 'five million quid in the bank'. A Westminster source said the new party is a version of UKIP for the culture wars and believes it could attract hundreds of thousands of unhappy Conservative voters. Sources close to Fox said the party does not see itself as strictly left or right wing but will be a broad church. At the weekend Fox found himself in a fiery debate with former Coronation Street actress Nicola Thorp (pictured) - after she said Fox was 'unequivocally, publicly and undeniably a racist' Sainsbury's said anyone who is not happy with 'an inclusive retailer' is welcome to shop elsewhere as it says it is proud to celebrate Black History Month with their communities Fox, who sparked controversy when he said suggestions of 'racism' over how the Duchess of Sussex was treated in some quarters was 'boring', says among his new party's aims are reforming the BBC, protecting free speech and celebrating Britain's contribution to the world The actor has received substantial sums from former Tory donors to launch his own political party provisionally called Reclaim and hopes to stand dozens of candidates across the UK, he says Reclaim so far has three objectives, which include protecting free speech, reforming publicly funded institutions, and preserving and celebrating Britain's cultural history. Planning has been underway for the last two months and backers include former Tory donor Jeremy Hosking. Staff are already being recruited for the party after Fox was launched into the political arena after his performance on Question Time in January. Laurence Fox announced last month that he was launching a new political party called the Reclaim Party in a bid to 'reclaim British values'. The actor, 42, has received substantial sums from former Tory donors and hopes to stand dozens of candidates across the UK. The Lewis star says he wants to provide a movement for people who are 'tired of being told that we represent the very thing we have, in history, stood together against'. He hopes to launch the party next month and the name is subject to the Electoral Commission's approval. Well, the ghouls are out early this sunny October, encircling President Trump as he recovers from COVID, openly slavering for his death. The first whiff of this new wave of wishful thinking came from a tweet noted by American Thinker contributor Taylor Day and retweeted by Twitter big James Woods: Piss boys of the liberal left media... #Ghouls https://t.co/5AmjYQzCxH James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) October 4, 2020 The obnoxious statement from some reporter in the White House press pool, attending a medical briefing, which contained good news about President Trump's response to medical treatment, was naked evidence that she liked only bad news for the health of President Trump. Exhibit A of the "wish he was dead" bunch. Then the big three print news organizations the Washington Post, the New York Times, and the Los Angeles Times each dispatched their top talent from the trenches to update President Trump's obituary, a job that's normally fobbed off to reporters as punishment duty. Gotta be ready for the big event, they reasoned. Hank Berrien at Daily Wire has that story: According to The New York Times' Ben Smith, top reporters at three of the major newspapers in the nation, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Los Angeles Times, have been assigned to update President Donald Trump's obituary. Those reporters include Peter Baker at The New York Times, Marc Fisher at The Washington Post and Mark Z. Barabak at The Los Angeles Times, Smith claimed people from the various papers confirmed to him. No reports so far of reporters complaining. Odds are good they might have asked for the assignment, too. After all, top editors don't like to make top reporters angry by dispatching them to obituary duty against their will. But in this case, things seem to be seen a bit differently. Trump, though, isn't anywhere near dying. Yes, he's in a high risk group. And COVID can be unpredictable. But it's also true that Trump has a robust constitution and is getting the best in medical care. The odds that he's going to die are very low, certainly lower than that of U.K. prime minister Boris Johnson, who nevertheless pulled through, though it was a close call. All the same, COVID death rates have plummeted in the U.S., with Trump's age group having about a 5% chance of hospitalization and an even lower chance of death. The obituary-writing thing, leaked to a columnist at the Times, who printed it, sounds like something the papers wanted to get out. They normally are more circumspect about who has what assignment. The idea was to wish political death on Trump by getting word out that Trump is a goner. Yet they were also slavering for his death. Rest assured: we know what they think of President Trump. The only question now is how many more incidents like these will be coming. Image credit: Pixabay public domain. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Editorial board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 6 2020 The 75th anniversary of the Indonesian Military (TNI) was celebrated in a solemn and quiet mood in a ceremony led by President Joko Jokowi Widodo from the Presidential Palace and broadcast to military units across the country on Monday. The ceremony was a far cry from past traditions of grandiose celebration with massive displays of both weaponry and troops. The reason is simple the whole nation is so preoccupied physically, mentally and financially in combating the COVID-19 pandemic that it was impossible to hold a massive, power-projecting TNI event as used to happen in the past. Such a modest anniversary celebration, however, is a blessing in disguise for the country as it can result in a reallocation from the budget for the TNI anniversary. The modest celebration apart, the event should give the TNI and national defense stakeholders a moment for introspection. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login A retired judge Monday moved the seeking an investigation into the role of police officials and registration of FIRs against them in connection with the Dalit woman who died a fortnight after being allegedly gang raped in Hathras district. The PIL filed by ex-judicial officer Chandra Bhan Singh alleged that "callousness and highhandedness" of the state administration and police officials in giving treatment to the victim led to her death and sought a probe by any agency other than affiliated to government. A 19-year-old Dalit woman was allegedly raped by four upper-caste men in Hathras on September 14. She died on September 29 at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital during treatment. The victim was cremated in the dead of the night near her home on September 30. Her family alleged they were forced by the local police to hurriedly conduct her last rites. Local police officers, however, said the cremation was carried out "as per the wishes of the family". The state government has already recommended a CBI probe in the matter and quoting FSL reports, it has denied the rape charge. The petition filed through advocate Smarhar Singh, contended that visuals surfaced in electronic media shows that bones of the victim still scattered in the open field and there is a complete embargo on the press, media, any civilian, or even law maker to enter inside the village. "The conduct of the involved officials of the government administration is a penal offence hence prosecution should be launched against the erring Government officials. Since the perpetrators are the Police officials and the administration of the state, therefore, nothing can be hoped from the state authority, therefore the petitioner is constrained to file this petition," the PIL said. The petition has also sought directions to get the statement of the mother, father and brother of the victim recorded before a Magistrate Under Section 164 CrPC. "Direct the investigating agency that in the event the allegation made by the family of the victim as reported widely in Print and Electronic media is found to be true then FIR be lodged against the erring respondents and all others whose involvement is found," the plea 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.) CHARLESTON, S.C., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- BridgeTower Media, ("BridgeTower"), the premier provider of business information and events across the U.S., today announced the launch of Carolinas Project Center, a searchable, trackable online database of public and private procurement opportunities. The unique proprietary database includes thousands of construction projects and other public and private leads to facilitate the growth of local business. The database is updated daily with new bids opportunities from more than 40 public agencies and dozens of private companies across South Carolina and North Carolina. Projects are updated from inception to bid award, and the database provides all the information necessary to bid on projects in addition to access to important project contacts, dates, and documents. Carolinas Project Center is backed and compiled by BridgeTower's local business news and information source, SC Biz News , the publishers of the Charleston Regional Business Journal, Columbia Regional Business Report, GSA Business Report, SCBIZ Magazine, and the Mecklenburg Times. SC Biz News is also the producer of premier business events including the South Carolina Manufacturing Conference and Expo. BridgeTower also maintains dozens of local databases serving business, construction, law practice, public notice, and political markets. "Our local team is in the field 24/7 identifying trends, updating databases and sourcing opportunities in the market, and Carolinas Project Center brings all those leads together in one place," said Adam Reinebach, President & CEO at BridgeTower. "Carolinas Project Center provides a detailed, continuous stream of opportunities, helping local companies and organizations find solutions and win contracts. It's another example of how we're leveraging our local and industry knowledge to build actionable data for customers." Annual membership for the Carolinas Project Center starts at $395 with an exclusive 30% charter member discount. The types of bid opportunities in the database include construction projects, design and engineering services, equipment and supplies, surplus goods for sale, and other professional services like legal, accounting, environmental, and IT, among others. The launch of the Carolinas Project Center follows similar successful construction-focused products in BridgeTower's Oregon, Wisconsin, and Louisiana markets. For a free tour of Carolinas Project Center or more information, please visit bit.ly/projectcentertour or contact Grady Johnson at [email protected] . About BridgeTower Media BridgeTower Media is the premier provider of business information, research, events and marketing solutions in more than 20 local, regional and industry B2B markets across the United States. In addition to providing subscribers with content relevant to their daily professional activities, BridgeTower has a research unit focused on employee satisfaction, lead generation services and live events centered on awards and education. For more, please visit: https://www.bridgetowermedia.com Media Contact: Joe LoBello LoBello Communications [email protected] SOURCE BridgeTower Media Washington, Oct 5 : Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the Democrats-led US House of Representatives, said that she was not being briefed on President Donald Trump's health, who is currently in hospital following his Covid-19 diagnosis. When asked during a CBS News interview on how frequently she was being briefed on Trump, Pelosi said: "Well, we're getting our information the way everyone else is, in the media. But in terms of the succession, that's an ongoing process. Sadly, at this time, it comes to the forefront. "our prayers are with the President and the First Lady and all those who surround him. Hopefully, the extent- the tracing, the contact tracing will give us an idea who needs to be treated so that the toll of this terrible virus isn't even worse than it is. "The President has the best of care. That's what we want for him and the family. I've always prayed for the family, for their safety throughout the presidency, as I have done for all presidents. "We pray for his good health, his speedy recovery. But I hope it will be a signal that we really have to do better in preventing the spread of this virus." Pelosi further said that she was not interested in how Trump testing positive for the virus would have an impact on the upcoming November 3 presidential election. "What I'm interested in is what impact will it be on coming to the table with us and doing what we have to crush the virus, listen to science, have the public-private role that needs to be done to crush the virus," the Speaker told CBS News. Regarding talks with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin in an effort to strike a deal on an additional Covid-19 aid package, Pelosi said "we are making progress" but the Republicans were objected. On October 1, the House passed a massive $2.2 trillion relief bill which features almost $500 billion for state and local governments; a renewal of $600 weekly payments for unemployment benefits; another round of $1,200 checks for individuals; $75 billion for coronavirus testing; and billions of dollars more for schools, the Postal Service, food stamps, rental assistance and election security. It also contains emergency bailout funds for two industries hit hardest by the pandemic: airlines and restaurants. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text MQB AWD This video from the German magazine auto motor und sport (AMS) is a technical analysis masquerading as a drag race. Even though the half-mile showdown is hidden right at the end, we watched the whole thing and learned a thing or two.AMS didn't want to believe the official manufacturer numbers, which suggested the RS Q3 was as light as your average CUV. When the 4x4 lifted itself onto the scales, it was found to be 58 kg heavier than claimed. That's 128 lbs, though this isn't a 100% accurate measurement. The Audi S8 was also overweight, but not by as much.Like we said at the beginning of the story, the cars are completely different. The RS Q3 is based on theplatform, like the VW Tiguan, so it has a longitudinally-mounted engine plus Haldex-style. That engine is a 2.5 TFSI, full of character, and producing 394 hp (400 PS) plus 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque.By contrast, the S8 uses a long-wheelbase version of the A8 sedan but powers itself with what the presenter describes as a "Porsche engine." Officially rated at 563 hp (571 PS), this 4.0-liter V8 has its turbos in the hot-V configuration. It's slightly down on power compared to the RS6 and RS7, which is said to be down to fuel economy targets.Unlike the RS Q3, the S8's quattro AWD is permanently engaged and you can see this in action during the drag race. It pulls away easily and stretches its lead over the whole half-mile race.If you liked this race, consider watching the showdown between the RS Q3 and RS Q8 or the S8 and Bentley Flying Spur. Astronomers using the international Gemini Observatory, a Program of NSF's NOIRLab, have captured the western wall of the Carina Nebula in unprecedented detail in a compelling image released today. The image reveals a number of unusual structures in the nebula. The exquisite detail revealed in the image is in part due to a technology known as adaptive optics, which resulted in a ten-fold improvement in the sharpness of the research team's observations. There is no better location to investigate the birth of stars than nebulae -- regions of gas and dust where stars coalesce, heat up and start to glow. The brilliant Carina Nebula, located in the southern hemisphere sky, is 500 times larger in actual area than the better-known Orion Nebula, making it an ideal candidate for investigating star formation. The team used adaptive optics on the 8.1-meter Gemini South telescope in Chile to significantly improve upon previous observations of the Carina Nebula's western wall, the well-defined edge of the nebula. Adaptive optics compensates for the effects of turbulence in the Earth's atmosphere to produce pin-sharp images, comparable to those from a space telescope. Indeed, this image is reminiscent of the famous Hubble Pillars of Creation in the Eagle Nebula. Star-forming regions are shrouded in dust but it is possible to see through the shroud of dust by observing in infrared light. The team, led by Patrick Hartigan of Rice University, utilized the Gemini South Adaptive Optics Imager (GSAOI), a near-infrared adaptive optics camera, to peer through the outer layers of dust to reveal a huge wall of dust and gas glowing with the intense ultraviolet light from nearby massive young stars. This region is a great example of such a wall and this image provides a very clear view of a star-forming region in the near-infrared [1]. With a resolution ten times higher than it would be without adaptive optics from the ground [2], the image reveals a wealth of detail never observed before. This mountainous section of the nebula reveals a number of unusual structures. There is a long series of parallel ridges that could be produced by a magnetic field, a remarkable almost perfectly smooth wave, and fragments that appear to be in the process of being sheared off the cloud by a strong wind. There is also evidence for a jet of material ejected from a newly-formed star. The image provides the sharpest view to date of how massive young stars affect their surroundings and influence how star and planet formation proceeds. "It is possible that the Sun formed in such an environment," said Hartigan. "If so, radiation and winds from any nearby massive stars would have affected the masses and atmospheres of the Solar System's outer planets." Astronomers are just beginning to model how such stars affect the evolution of planetary systems. This spectacular image is a wonderful demonstration of the effectiveness of adaptive optics. It is also the first time that this region has been observed using this technique, so every new detail is a fascinating first glimpse for astronomers and the general public alike, and gives a taste of what could be possible with the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope. ### Notes [1] The region was examined at the infrared wavelength of molecular hydrogen (2120 nm). Molecular hydrogen is the best way to trace the structures because they would otherwise be rendered invisible by dust blocking them at optical and ultraviolet wavelengths (where the Hubble Space Telescope operates). [2] The images are about twice as sharp as those from the Hubble Space Telescope at this wavelength. More information This research was presented in a paper published today in the Astrophysical Journal Letters. The team is composed of Patrick Hartigan (Rice University), Turlough Downes (Dublin City University), Andrea Isella (Rice University). NSF's NOIRLab (National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory), the US center for ground-based optical-infrared astronomy, operates the international Gemini Observatory (a facility of NSF, NRC-Canada, ANID-Chile, MCTIC-Brazil, MINCyT-Argentina, and KASI-Republic of Korea), Kitt Peak National Observatory (KPNO), Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory (CTIO), the Community Science and Data Center (CSDC), and Vera C. Rubin Observatory. It is managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) under a cooperative agreement with NSF and is headquartered in Tucson, Arizona. The astronomical community is honored to have the opportunity to conduct astronomical research on Iolkam Du'ag (Kitt Peak) in Arizona, on Maunakea in Hawai?i, and on Cerro Tololo and Cerro Pachon in Chile. We recognize and acknowledge the very significant cultural role and reverence that these sites have to the Tohono O'odham Nation, to the Native Hawaiian community, and to the local communities in Chile, respectively. Links Research paper Photos of Gemini South Rice University Release Contacts Amanda Kocz Press and Internal Communications Officer NSF's NOIRLab Cell: +1 626 524 5884 Email: amanda.kocz@noirlab.edu A volunteer fire brigade rescued a rat stuck in a hole in a manhole cover in Germany yesterday. The volunteer fire brigade arrived around 4.45pm in Steubenstrasse in Bad Kreuznach, Rhineland-Palatinate. The rodent bit into one of the rescuer's gloves when they reached out to help it, which hurt the rat's tooth and it began to bleed, Bild reported. A volunteer fire brigade had to rescue a rat which had become stuck in a manhole cover in Bad Kreuznach, Rhineland-Palatinate, around 4.45pm yesterday The rescuers lifted the manhole cover and, using a wooden wedge, pushed the rat from below. In a rescue which last just under an hour, the rat fell into an animal rescue box which had been placed under the cover. They took the animal to the vets, where it was given something to eat and some pain medication to calm it down. The Freiwillige Feuerwehr Bad Kreuznach volunteer fire brigade rescued the animal and shared the photo on their Facebook page afterwards. In February 2019, a fat rodent was spotted stuck in a drain in Bensheim, Germany. Help: A distressed rat was discovered in Bensheim, Germany, in February 2019 which had become stuck in a drain cover. It had to be rescued by nine firefighters The rat had managed to get stuck in a drain cover and had to be rescued by nine firefighters. When rescuers arrived they were greeted by the unfortunate flabby animal wriggling and squeaking in the manhole cover, trying to free itself from the tiny gap. A firefighter used an animal capture noose to grab hold of the rat as other rescuers lifted up the cover with crowbars. They managed to free the struggling the distressed creature by wedging the manhole cover open to push the rat through. Washington: The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention on Monday, local time, reported 7,396,730 cases of the new coronavirus, an increase of 36,778 from its previous count, and said that the number of deaths had risen by 378 to 209,199. The CDC reported its tally of cases of the respiratory illness known as COVID-19, caused by a new coronavirus, as of 4 pm ET, on October 4 versus its previous report a day earlier. The figures do not necessarily reflect cases reported by individual states. The coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Credit:AP The latest toll comes as US President Donald Trump announced plans to leave Walter Reed Medical Centre in Maryland, where he was being treated for coronavirus. In doing so, Trump urged Americans not to be afraid of COVID-19 or let it dominate their lives. The CDC also updated its guidance saying COVID-19 can sometimes be spread by airborne transmission. A 40-year effort to establish a nuclear waste dump in remote South Australia faces a rocky passage through Federal Parliament after Labor signalled it is prepared to block the Morrison government's attempts to resolve the long-running debate. The decision, rubber-stamped by the federal caucus in lengthy debate on Monday, has sparked further divisions within the opposition, with veteran senators Alex Gallacher and Kim Carr expressing fierce criticism of their party's position. Australia's nuclear waste is now stored at more than 100 sites around the country. Credit:Glenn Campbell There are also concerns within federal Labor that its stance could unwittingly hand Prime Minister Scott Morrison a double-dissolution trigger should the crossbench sink the laws. The government intends to introduce legislation to finally establish a low- and medium-level nuclear waste facility at Napandee, a farm on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula, having spent seven years and more than $60 million finding a suitable home. A team led by Sharareh (Sherri) Kermanshachi of The University of Texas at Arlington, as part of a partnership led by the City of Arlington, has received $606,457 to help launch a new public transportation pilot program in downtown Arlington and on UTAs campus that features autonomous vehicles. During the technology deployment phase, this new service will offer free rides for UT Arlington students. Kermanshachi, an assistant professor of civil engineering, is leading UT Arlingtons research efforts. Other investigators include Jay Rosenberger, professor in the Department of Industrial, Manufacturing and Systems Engineering and interim director of the Center for Transportation Equity, Decisions, and Dollars (CTEDD); Greg Hladik, director of UTA Parking and Transportation Services; and Amir Shahmoradi, an assistant professor in the Department of Physics. The project is part of a $1.7 million Federal Transportation Administration grant to the city of Arlington. Part of the funding will go toward 20,000 free rides for UT Arlington students on the autonomous vehicles. The goal of this project, titled Arlington RAPID (Rideshare, Automation, and Payment Integration Demonstration), is to provide a blueprint for combining autonomous vehicles and mobility-on-demand technologies to develop more effective, efficient, safe and accessible transit networks in low-density settings where traditional fixed-route transit is impractical. The city will work with UT Arlington, Via and May Mobility on the one-year pilot program, which starts in March 2021. Via is the on-demand rideshare program the city of Arlington began partnering with in 2017. The autonomous vehicles for the project will be provided and operated by May Mobility. So many students and Arlington citizens use Via because they do not have a personal vehicle, which makes this program extremely important to them, Kermanshachi said. Feedback is critical to the success of the transportation project. Accordingly, Kermanshachi and her team have conducted three focus groups, performed quantitative data analytics to collect input from people residing and/or working in Arlington, and investigated travelers behavioral patterns in the choice of transportation mode selection. We found out that there is a high interest in this program, Kermanshachi said. I believe we will have plenty of riders ready to participate early next year. Its a huge win for the students. We determined there is some interest even from students who have cars. Kermanshachi said the research group is gleaning existing ridership data now available through Via and UTA Parking and Transportation. She said that data can reveal potential gaps in service, hot spots, service hours, zone boundaries, consistency of Via wait times and infrastructure issues such as bus shelters and sidewalks. The team also will conduct additional geographic information system analysis to examine census data for variables like rider income, access to vehicles, location of student housing complexes and student apartments, social destinations, student job locations and demographic data with equity impacts. Ali Abolmaali, chair of the Civil Engineering Department, said Kermanshachis project could have a great impact on mobility in the city of Arlington. Getting around a huge city like Arlington is tough, especially for those without a vehicle, Abolmaali said. This pilot program aims to help that. According to the city, the pilot program will include a wheelchair-accessible autonomous vehicle and free autonomous vehicle rides for UT Arlington students. Ann Foss, principal planner with the City of Arlingtons Office of Strategic Initiatives, said UT Arlington students are a perfect test group for the pilot program. Were looking forward to providing students, as well as all residents and visitors in Arlington, with innovative mobility on their time schedules, Foss said. As part of the citys ongoing efforts to enhance regional mobility, Arlington has already managed two successful autonomous vehicle deployments. The Milo off-street pilot program with EasyMile was conducted from August 2017 to August 2018 and the on-street pilot program with drive.ai vehicles was conducted from October 2018 to May 2019. The Arlington RAPID project will integrate fully autonomous vehicles into Arlington's existing Via on-demand rideshare service. ### "In our communication to the City of Lockport, we've made it clear to the city our view that the officers should lose their jobs and be prosecuted," Grable said. Mrs. Hodge filed a wrongful death suit against the city and the four officers in June, near the first anniversary of the death. "The testimony, the recordings and all the rest of it demonstrate that it's a complete fairy tale," Cambria scoffed. "There is no basis at all, ever, to feel that there's any civil or criminal liability." On a 77-second cellphone video of the incident, taken from across the street, a voice is heard saying, "Mom, don't let them kill me. Don't let them kill me." Another voice says something that sounds like, "Drop the knife." The dark video doesn't show the struggle, which occurred about 11:30 p.m. Grable acknowledged Monday that a toxicology report shows Hodge was under the influence of controlled substances. Burton said in a letter to the city's attorney that Hodge had "acute levels of cocaine intoxication." Richmond Cultural Council Seeking Grant Applications RICHMOND, Mass. The Richmond Cultural Council is seeking grant proposals for community-oriented arts, humanities and science programs including exhibits, festivals, field trips, short-term artist residencies or performances in schools, workshops, and lectures. Application forms for organizations, schools, and individuals applying for grants that support cultural activities will be available online Oct. 1 and are due by Nov. 16. Grant Application forms and more information about the Local Cultural Council Program are available here Although the online application is strongly suggested, application forms can be downloaded and are also available at the Richmond Town Hall, the Richmond Library and the Richmond Consolidated School. Please be sure to complete and sign each application and answer all the questions on the RCC cover sheet. Previously funded projects include Scholarships to the Berkshire Children's Chorus, the 2015 Richmond/West Stockbridge Fine Art Show, the Fall Festival of Shakespeare, as well as various field trips and art programs at Richmond Consolidated School. For specific information on the Richmond Cultural Council, contact Cathy Gamberoni at ol4eyes@gmail.com The Richmond Cultural Council (RCC) is part of a network of 329 Local Cultural councils serving all 351 cities and towns in the Commonwealth. The LCC Program is the largest cultural funding network in the nation, supporting thousands of community-based projects in the arts, sciences, and humanities every year. The state legislature provides an annual appropriation to the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency, which then allocates funds to the community. Crowdcube founder and CEO Darren Westlake will serve as executive chairman of the merged business. Photo: Crowdcube The UKs two biggest crowdfunding platforms have announced plans to merge. Crowdcube and Seedrs said in a joint statement on Monday they had agreed the terms of a merger. The combined company will be worth 140m ($181.2m). Crowdcube will acquire Seedrs under the terms, with Crowdcubes shareholders owning 60% of the combined business. Seedrs investors will receive 40%, reflecting the differing valuations of the two companies. Crowdcube was last valued at 84m and Seedrs is worth 56m. The exact financial terms werent disclosed. Todays agreement is an incredibly exciting milestone that will benefit high growth businesses, their investors who believe in their vision and the wider entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports them, said Darren Westlake, Crowdcubes founder and chief executive. Together with Seedrs, we can accelerate plans to further expand in the UK and overseas, launch innovative new products and improve our customers experience. Westlake will serve as executive chairman of the combined business. Seedrs chief executive Jeff Kelisky will serve as CEO. We believe that you need to be a player of greater scale to serve companies and the investors who support them, Kelisky said in a statement. Now is the right time to bring our strengths together, in order to meet our common mission to deliver a step change in the accessibility and efficiency within private company investing. The merger is subject to approval by shareholders in both companies, the UKs Competition and Markets Authority, and the Financial Conduct Authority. The deal is expected to close either at the end of this year or early in 2021. Seedrs founder Jeff Lyn appears on stage at the 2014 TechCrunch Disrupt Europe/London, at The Old Billingsgate on October 21, 2014 in London, England. Photo: Anthony Harvey/Getty Images for TechCrunch The deal will bring together the UKs two main crowdfunding platforms. Both have long vied for the title of the UKs biggest and have long been seen as close competitors. Crowdcube was founded in 2011 in Exeter, claiming to be the worlds first equity crowdfunding platform. Startups can sell shares in their business directly to retail investors over Crowdcubes platform. It has been used by the likes of BrewDog, Revolut, Monzo, and Grind coffee. Story continues Seedrs was founded in London in 2012 and offers a similar model, although investments are structured differently. Startups like FreeAgent, Chapel Down winery, and Urban Massage have used Seedrs to raise money. Between them, both platforms have facilitated investment of over 2bn into businesses. Crowdcube employs 70 people and Seedrs has 80 staff. The two firms are among the highest profile companies to come out of the UKs fintech financial technology sector, which has boomed in the past decade. Crowdcube has raised over 30m from investors and Seedrs has raised a similar sum. Both businesses are loss making. Crowdcube lost 2.6m on revenues of 7.6m last year and Seedrs lost 3.9m on revenues of 3.1m in 2018, the most recent period covered by public accounts. Charles Delingpole, the founder of another leading UK financial technology company, ComplyAdvantage, said the deal was a fantastic outcome for all parties. The duplication from running two parallel exchanges is suboptimal, and having a single champion exchange will ensure that more can be invested in a great range of functionality and opportunities for all stakeholders, he told Yahoo Finance UK. Watch: What is a V-shaped recovery? The potato industry in Ireland, and all that are involved in it, are asleep at the wheel. The industry is in stasis, and has been for the last 20 years. Perhaps there are good reasons for that. Up to the mid 1990s, the industry was a beacon of technical innovation, adopting a stream of new technology on many fronts. In more recent years, though, the industry has been fighting a rearguard action in a basic struggle for survival. Its difficult to innovate when you are battling for your very existence. The effect of this lack of innovation is really beginning to bite and is currently most apparent as potato growers face battles on two fronts Brexit and loss of active ingredients. The loss of the active ingredient diquat as a crop desiccant will have a profound effect on the industry. We simply cant swap one active ingredient for another, there is nothing as quick and effective as diquat was, there is nothing in the immediate development pipeline to replace. Basic research is needed to develop alternative strategies. We need to know the full implications of mechanical pulverising of stalks and what this will mean for disease spread, on losses from crow damage and longterm storage characteristics of crops. We need to know the minimum level of nitrogen that allows a crop reach full yield potential before beginning to mature itself. And, most importantly, we need to start the process of developing other potato varieties more suited for the Irish climate. These varieties will need shorter growing cycles, be less prone to skin blemishes and require less refrigeration over a long storage season to maintain quality. Brexit The issue of Brexit is also exposing the weakness and lethargy of the industry. In 85 days, the UK, including Scotland, will be fully outside the EU. For plant health reasons, this means that in 85 days time we cannot bring in potatoes or seed potatoes from the UK, including Scotland. The majority of the seed potatoes we use come from Scotland. The seed potato industry have had since June 2016 to put some sort of plan in place for this eventuality. But it appears that the best plan they can come up with it is to change the source of seed from Scotland to the Netherlands.The Dutch are very good at many things, but unfortunately plant health is not one of them (when was the last time you saw an elm tree, and what caused their demise?). A longterm strategy based on importing seed potatoes from the home of Ring Rot and Brown Rot is hardly good enough for a country which prides itself on high plant health status. If you look at the structure of the Irish potato industry, for all intents and purposes its based on one variety, Rooster. This variety is protected, meaning that it can only be supplied by one company. So an industry based on one variety, supplied from one company, cant get its act together to multiply up seed to meet its own requirements. Note that the term potato seed is a misnomer. Potatoes are genetic clones and are multiplied asexually, so they dont need any particular environmental conditions to multiply, as for instance vegetable seeds do. So wherever you can grow potatoes, technically you can grow potato seed. The potato industry in Ireland is very small and we need everyone involved in it working together for the greater good of the sector. What will it take for the stakeholders in the potato sector to get together and implement a research programme, a marketing programme a product supply programme and an export programme for growers. Sooner or later the industry will have to wake up and take control of the wheel. WASHINGTON U.S. Sen. John Cornyn said Monday that President Donald Trump let his guard down on the coronavirus and that the presidents rhetoric has created confusion as the country has struggled to get the pandemic under control. I think he let his guard down, and I think in his desire to try to demonstrate that we are somehow coming out of this and that the danger is not still with us I think he got out over his skis and frankly, I think its a lesson to all of us that we need to exercise self discipline, Cornyn told the Houston Chronicle editorial board. The comment came as he was asked about Trump rarely wearing a mask, holding Make America Great Again rallies and hosting a Supreme Court nomination ceremony at the White House attended by at least eight people, including two senators, who have since tested positive for the virus. WHERE ARE THE ADULTS?: Secret Service agents, doctors aghast at Trumps drive outside hospital Cornyn also said the president shouldve known that comments he made to journalist Bob Woodward about downplaying the virus in his public statements would be published. He said that while he believes Trumps policy actions including shutting off travel to and from China and supporting stimulus packages worth trillions of dollars demonstrated the seriousness of the virus, the presidents rhetoric at times creates confusion. He tries to balance that with saying, Well you know, we got this. And clearly we dont have this, Cornyn said. I think the biggest mistake people make in public life is not telling the truth, particularly in something with as much public interest as here because you know the real story is going to come out. It was some of the veteran Texas senators strongest criticism of a president who he called his own worst enemy. Cornyn is running for a fourth term in office and has been among Trumps closest allies in the Senate. His opponent, former Air Force pilot MJ Hegar, has accused Cornyn of not taking the coronavirus seriously enough and doing little to push back on the president. Personally, Id like to see you and the president condemn white supremacists, Hegar tweeted last week. Will you ever hold the president accountable? On Monday, she tweeted: This isnt @JohnCornyn holding the president to account, Its @JohnCornyn terrified about reelection. Cornyn said Trumps policies have largely been good for the country. But he said it is not easy to try to get things done working with him or the White House, and he detailed some of the private disagreements he has had with Trump. DEMOCRATIC FOES WINDFALL: MJ Hegar raises $13.5M in bid to unseat Sen. John Cornyn Discord over Dreamers Cornyn said about a year ago he called Trump and told the president he no longer believed that protections for some immigrants brought to the country illegally as children should be used as leverage to try to get other things we want on immigration. Cornyn said he no longer felt comfortable tying an extension to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program to the other policies. I no longer believed it was moral, really, to use these young people who did nothing wrong, Cornyn said. He said he made the same appeals to Jared Kushner, the presidents son in law and adviser, but unfortunately my view did not prevail. In the past, those protections, which were put in place by the Obama administration and scrapped by Trump, have been lumped into broader immigration bills with funding for the presidents border wall and other Republican immigration priorities. Critics have questioned Cornyns commitment to passing legislation to protect so-called Dreamers, pointing out that he was a critic of the Obama administrations creation of the DACA program and said Trump was right to end it in 2017, saying at the time that Congress should act on the matter. Cornyn voted against standalone DACA bills in 2007 and 2010. In 2018 as Republican whip, responsible for rounding up votes for legislation Cornyn said any citizenship concessions would require cuts to family migration and the diversity visa lottery. The president would like to get a result here, but he also has demands, Cornyn said at the time. The idea that youre going to be able to get a clean DACA bill, or one that just tips their hat at these other two pillars of what the president insisted upon, I think is not a path forward. But on Monday, Cornyn whose campaign has run Spanish language ads saying he strongly supports the legalization of Dreamers said he believes a standalone DACA bill has enough support to pass, if the president would get behind it. I just dont see, in this political environment, getting an immigration reform bill of any kind unless the president gets in front of it, Cornyn said. I dont have the authority to put it on the floor. If the president would get behind it, it would provide political cover for a lot of people, Cornyn said. I think if it was on the floor, it would pass the Senate and it would pass the House and if the president would sign it, that would be a very important accomplishment. Frank Sharry, a longtime advocate for DACA with the immigrant rights group Americas Voice, said Cornyn calling Trump about DACA is literally unbelievable. He noted that a version of the Dream Act passed the Democratic-led House last year and Cornyn could push Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to bring it to the floor for a vote. He talks a good game about the need for a humane approach for young people, Sharry said. There is a canyon-size gap between what he says and what he does. TEXAS TAKE: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox Cornyn said such disagreements with the president have mostly been addressed directly to Trump and members of his administration, because he made a decision to not get in public fights with the president when I disagree with him. He pointed to former U.S. Sen. Bob Corker, a Tennessee Republican, who retired in 2018 after developing a public feud with the president that included Corker calling the White House an adult day care center and Trump labeling the senator Liddle Bob Corker. By getting involved in a public dispute with the president over what he says and how he says it, basically Bob was persona non grata and it completely defeated his effectiveness in getting things done, Cornyn said. I think the most important thing I can do is to get things done for Texas. I just have to deal with the personalities and some of the side show as a distraction from getting things done. Cornyn, however, made the case that Trumps policies, especially on the economy, have been good for the country and if youre asking me to choose between the policies of a Biden presidency with the pressure hell get from the left of his own party I would vote for the president and his policies. The American people elected him and thats the ultimate test, Cornyn said. And well see what happens on Nov. 3. ben.wermund@chron.com Ticket booths outside Disneyland and California Adventure in Anaheim are empty as the theme parks remain closed Sept. 30. (Los Angeles Times) To the editor: I thank Gov. Gavin Newsom for resisting pressure from Walt Disney Co. to allow Disneyland and other such attractions in California to reopen. Our society has far more important priorities than theme park rides. ("Disneyland's push to reopen sets up critical moment in California's coronavirus fight," Oct. 1) It is heartbreaking, though, that tens of thousands of livelihoods are at risk while the park remains closed. Here, corporate greed offers a solution. In 2018, then-Disney Chief Executive Bob Iger, now the company's executive chairman, earned $65 million. Surely he can spare a bit to support his out-of-work employees and their communities. Kristin Roberts, Pasadena .. To the editor: Would Disney rather have opened its parks in California and then learned from contact tracing that hundreds of deaths would have been traced back to its visitors? Also, does it really expect people to believe that it cannot afford to continue to furlough workers instead of laying them off? Maybe it should not point fingers at Sacramento and instead tighten the belts of its executives. Christi Engel, Topanga This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. GREY-BRUCE Ian Reich, public health manager, made a presentation to members of the Grey Bruce Board of Health at the Sept. 25 meeting on mitigation strategies for overdose prevention during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although COVID-19 has captured the publics interest, overdose deaths continue, both in Grey-Bruce and across the province. There were 18 deaths in 2019, the largest number to date, and 2020 is heading in the same direction. There were four deaths early in the year and 10 more since COVID. Part of the challenge, said Reich, is the conflicting messaging. While staying away from others is the key message for COVID-19, the message for drug users is, if youre using, use together. He told of an innovative program out of Hamilton that allows people using drugs alone to call a number, 1-888-853-8542. If theres a problem, 911 can be dispatched to the users location. Reich spoke of the expanded Naloxone program at Hanover and District Hospital, which allows naloxone kits to be dispensed to family and friends of drug users who end up in the emergency department. Theres a lot of community outreach going on, he said, including the needle exchange program in Wiarton. The health unit is working with New Directions in Hanover, as well as doing work in Lucknow and Owen Sound, partnering with Grey and Bruce Housing, and working with CMHC Hope Grey Bruce. There is a new, expanded naloxone program that involves Family Health Teams, police, and EMS, allowing them to dispense naloxone and provide training on how to use it.* The goal is to prevent deaths, Reich said. He asked the board to endorse an open letter to the Canadas Health Minister Patty Hajdu and the Government of Canada, and another to Ontarios Health Minister Christine Elliott and the Government of Ontario, from the Municipal Drug Strategy Coordinators Network of Ontario.** The letter calls for safer drug supply initiatives. Reich explained such initiatives provide pharmaceutical-grade drugs to users as a strategy to prevent deaths. He noted 73 per cent of the drug fatalities in Grey-Bruce have involved drugs laced with fentanyl (a powerful synthetic opiate 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine) or carfentanil (100 times more toxic than fentanyl and used by veterinarians for very large animals like elephants). The strategy does more than transition people from toxic, unregulated street drugs to safer, pharmaceutical-grade substances. It takes place in a health-care context and addresses substance use as a health issue rather than a criminal one. Participants have access to a wide range of health and social services. Such strategies have significant benefits not just reduced deaths, but improved community safety and well-being. As stated in the letter, COVID-19 has made the drug crisis across Canada worse. At a time when the supply of unregulated drug supply is becoming increasingly tainted and deadly, addiction services have either closed or cut hours of service. It is now more evident than ever that urgent action is needed to address the opioid poisoning crisis that is co-occurring with the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to giving a big shout-out to the team during a time of conflicting priorities, Reich also told board members about designing and implementing an Indigenous strategy. During the question period that followed the presentation, board chair Mitch Twolan said this is an issue that affects every one of our communities. Board member Anne Eadie, mayor of Kincardine, asked for more information about safe supply of drugs. Reich said the person not only has access to safer drugs that arent tainted with toxic substances (fentanyl and carfentenil), but counselling. Fatalities are reduced to non-existent, he said. And the person is helped on their journey to recovery. He noted substance abuse is often the end result of traumatic events experienced in childhood, and spoke of videos on the subject by Dr. Gabor Mate, author of the book In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts. Board member Selwyn Hicks, deputy mayor of Hanover, asked why more effort isnt focused on childhood mental health. Why wait until theyre adults? Reich agreed. There needs to be a huge shift in funding to address the issue. Dr. Ian Arra, medical officer of health, spoke of the health units Healthy Babies Healthy Children program and said attention needs to be shifted to the beginning rather than the end of the issue. The board voted to endorse both letters. For more information on drug addiction, see the news release dated July 31, 2020, entitled Opioid Overdoses Toxic Supply, posted on the Grey Bruce Public Health website. *Naloxone, also known as Narcan, is a drug that temporarily blocks or reverses the effects of opioid drugs such as heroin, morphine and oxycodone, and more powerful synthetic opiates. Opioid drugs depress the central nervous system to the point where breathing can stop. Naloxone can help restore breathing during an opioid overdose. Naloxone can be administered by an inhaler or by injection; kits are readily available in Grey-Bruce and are designed to be used as first aid measures by people with minimal training. **The Municipal Drug Strategy Coordinators Network of Ontario has 65-plus members who work in diverse health settings across the province, including public health units, community health centres and not-for-profit organizations. Members coordinate multi-sectoral initiatives that aim to prevent and/or reduce the harms of substance use through regionally tailored strategies incorporating prevention, harm reduction, treatment and enforcement-justice initiatives. Learn more at www.drugstrategy.ca. Former member of Parliament and national spokesperson for Congress Madhu Goud Yaskhi on Sunday tweeted a photo of his burns in his hands that he said was sustained from the indelible ink used for stamping international passengers on arrival at Delhis Indira Gandhi International airport. The batch of ink has now reportedly been discarded. On arrival at the Delhi airport from New York on Saturday, Yaskhi was stamped prior to boarding his connecting flight to Hyderabad. Tagging Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Yaskhi wrote on Twitter, Can you please look into the chemical being used at Delhi airport for stamping on passengers coming from abroad? Yesterday I was stamped at DelhiAirport and this is how my hands look now, and shared the photos of his swollen hands. Dear @HardeepSPuri Ji, can you please look into the chemical being used at Delhi airport for stamping on passengers coming from abroad? Yesterday I was stamped at @DelhiAirport and this is how my hands look now. pic.twitter.com/Gt1tZvGc8L Madhu Goud Yaskhi (@MYaskhi) October 4, 2020 The former MP received a prompt response from Puri. Thank you for drawing my attention to this. I have spoken to CMD AAI, the minister said. As international flight services resumed in India, all the passengers arriving at the Delhi airport who are approved for home quarantine are stamped by the officials of their respective states. The passengers who are to be quarantined in Delhi are stamped by state governments health department. The moment I was stamped I started feeling itchy. I thought it was normal. By 4.15pm when my flight took off, the irritation grew and I felt a burning sensation. Gradually, it turned black and it became intolerable, Yaskhi told Hindustan Times, adding that he contacted one of his dermatologist friends as soon as he landed at Hyderabad. My doctor told me that gradually my skin will peel off and that complete recovery may take more than a month, he said. Meanwhile, the Delhi airport operator, DIAL, responded to his tweet saying, We deeply regret the inconvenience caused. The ink used for stamping is a standard indelible ink. Weve reported the issue to the Delhi State Authorities. Currently, this batch of ink is being kept aside for testing by the supplier and further desired action. Thank you for highlighting this issue. The Delhi International Airport Limited officials said that the batch of ink has been set aside. Passengers whove been pre-approved for home quarantine through the Air Suvidha portal are being stamped at the airport. Yaskhi said that the sole purpose of his tweet was to draw the authorities attention so as to ensure that no other passenger goes through the same experience. A brawl broke out on board an Allegiant Air flight heading to Arizona this week after one man donned a face shield but refused to wear a mandated face mask underneath, witness said. Rylie Lansford was seated aboard Saturday's flight from Mesa, Arizona, to Provo, Utah, when 'all hell [broke] loose.' Lansford managed to film part of the fight and uploaded it to her Instagram page, BakedbyRylie, where it has amassed more than 20,300 views in one day. Footage of the incident begins mid-confrontation with one man, wearing a black t-shirt and face mask, shouting curses and pulling at an older man's hair. The older man reportedly wore a face shield, but it is not present in the video. A fight broke out on an Allegiant Air flight on Saturday after an older man (center) reportedly wore a face shield but refused to wear a mandated face mask underneath The masked man punches the older man's back as airline security attempts to break up the fight. The video clips ends with the two men still in a contentious confrontation while the remaining flight attendants and passengers watch in shock. 'It was absolutely insane to me because its all about a mask, and it didnt need to get that way,' Lansford told KSL-TV in an interview. In a separate Instagram video, Lansford explained that the fight sparked after the older passenger donned a face shield but refused to wear a mandated face mask. A second passenger (right), became upset with the older man (center) and confronted him before the flight took off from Mesa, Arizona, to Provo, Utah Per Allegiant Air's policies, all passengers are required to wear proper face masks and face shields cannot be used as a lone substitute. 'All passengers are required to wear a face covering that covers the nose and mouth at all times while traveling,' the policy states. 'Prohibited coverings include those with exhalation valves, holes (such as lace or mesh), neck gaiters, and bandanas. 'Face shields may be worn in addition to a face covering, but not as an alternative.' Lansford said she arrived to the flight just before scheduled take off and the incident began soon after. 'Almost immediately a flight attendant comes up to the guy sitting behind us and says, 'Sir, I need you to put a face mask on that covers your mouth and your nose,"' Lansford said. Rylie Lansford (left and right): 'It was absolutely insane to me because its all about a mask, and it didnt need to get that way' She claimed that older man would not comply with the flight attendant's request and maintained he did not have to. 'He has a face shield on, so he didn't want to wear an additional mask and he was like "I don't have to wear one,"' said Lansford. 'He was not having it.' Lansford added that the man wearing the face shield had acted 'really rude' and 'condescending' to the flight attendant when she approached him. Afterwards, the masked passenger sitting near Lansford turned around to confront the older man over his apparent refusal. Lansford: 'Then I just hear and see one swing of an arm, and I just bolt to the front of the plane with the flight attendants' 'At first, I thought it was banter between friends cause it was kind of weird, but then you quickly learned that the words that they were saying to each other were not friendly,' Lansford told KSL-TV. The second man demanded the older passenger put on a proper face mask, and Lansford said he was in a rush to get flight going. 'He kept saying, "My mom is in hospice. I need to get home,"' Lansford. When a second flight attendant determined the older man would be removed from the flight, Lansford said punches started to fly. 'Then I just hear and see one swing of an arm, and I just bolt to the front of the plane with the flight attendants,' she told KSL-TV. Per Allegiant Air's policies , all passengers are required to wear proper face masks and face shields cannot be used as a lone substitute Lansford said that the older man, and a woman who appeared to be with him, were eventually removed from the plane. The second man was allowed to stay and proceed with the flight. A flight attendant later told Lansford, 'Oh, you get a glimpse into what we deal with.' Major airlines from Spirit to American have enacted face mask policies after the COVID-19 pandemic plunged worldwide travel. Companies like Delta Airlines have implemented some of the strictest pandemic-era flight rules. In July, the company announced it would require medical screenings for passengers who can't wear a face mask due to health concerns. The airline has also committed to leaving the middle seat on planes empty to put distance between passengers and promote safe travel. Hathras case: Bengal's non-BJP leaders slam Uttar Pradesh MLA for his rape remark India oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P Kolkata, Oct 05: Several non-BJP parties in West Bengal slammed BJP's Ballia MP Surendra Singh, who recently said that 'sanskar' (values) should be instilled in girls to prevent incidents of rape, and sought to know why the saffron party was "maintaining silence" over the remark. Singh, while speaking in reference to the Hathras gang-rape and murder case, said if parents instil "sanskar" in their daughters while raising them, incidents of rape can be avoided. Hathras gang-rape case: Congress stages protest in Mumbai; Seeks justice for Hathras victim's kin "Even if the government flaunts sword before the rapists that won't help in stopping such crimes unless parents teach their daughters to dress properly," he had said. Describing Singh as a "pervert", TMC MP Mahua Moitra tweeted, "Is @BJP going to break their maunvrat over this sick pervert who is elected on their ticket?" Mitra, who attached a video clip of the UP MLA's remarks with her tweet. Samajwadi Party delegation meets family of Hathras woman, assures help Her senior party colleague and state minister Partha Chatterjee said, "This is what is expected from BJP MLAs like Singh who have no respect and regard for women, who have no proper education and are blighted by medieval ideas. Yet such people are fielded by the BJP, which goes on to show the true colour of the saffron party." Moitra and Chatterjee's political adversary, CPI(M) Legislature Party leader Sujan Chakraborty, too, condemned the statement and said Hindutva forces treat women as "second- class citizens". Hathras case: Caste-based meet held in support of rape accused JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News Alleging that cases of Dalit atrocities are continuing unabated in Uttar Pradesh and other BJP-ruled states, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had said on Sunday that the saffron party's ideology "enforces caste-based segregation". "Dalit-oppression by BJP ruled Govts is an open secret now. The party's Anti-Dalit ideology enforces caste-based segregation even in today's day & age. Their hardships will not let @BJP4India & its leaders rest peacefully!" the chief minister tweeted. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 15:33 [IST] The prize has been awarded jointly to Harvey J Alter, left on screen, Michael Houghton, centre, and Charles M Rice (Claudio Bresciani/TT via AP) Three scientists have won the Nobel Prize for medicine for discovering the liver-ravaging hepatitis C virus, a breakthrough that led to cures for the deadly disease and tests to keep it out of the blood supply. Americans Harvey J Alter and Charles M Rice and British-born scientist Michael Houghton were honoured for their work over several decades on an illness that still plagues more than 70 million worldwide and kills over 400,000 each year. For the first time in history, the disease can now be cured, raising hopes of eradicating hepatitis C virus from the world, the Nobel Committee said in announcing the prize in Stockholm. The challenge now is to make these still-expensive drugs more widely available and to stem the spread of the disease among drug users, whose sharing of needles has led to spikes in cases. What we need is the political will to eradicate it and to make the drugs affordable enough to do it, Mr Alter said. For the first time in history, the Hepatitis C virus can now be cured. The 2020 Medicine Laureates discoveries revealed the cause of the remaining cases of chronic hepatitis and made possible blood tests and new medicines that have saved millions of lives.#NobelPrize pic.twitter.com/hqJK1uWX3u The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 5, 2020 Scientists had long known of the hepatitis A and B viruses, spread largely through contaminated food or water, and blood, respectively, but were toiling in the wilderness to try to explain many other cases of liver disease until the blood-borne hepatitis C virus was identified in 1989, said Raymond Chung, liver disease chief at Massachusetts General Hospital. Now it is the only chronic viral infection that can be cured in almost all cases within a few months, using one of about half a dozen drugs, Dr Chung said. Without such treatment, the virus can lead to permanent scarring of the liver, cancer or the need for a transplant. In an interview with the Associated Press, Mr Rice said he is most proud that the groups work quickly led to a test to screen donors and make the blood supply safer. We take it for granted that if you get a transfusion, youre not going to get sick from that transfusion. That was not the case before but is certainly the case now, he said. Expand Close The prestigious award comes with a gold medal (Fernando Vergara/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The prestigious award comes with a gold medal (Fernando Vergara/AP) Jesse Goodman, a former blood safety expert at the US Food and Drug Administration, said that before testing was available, about one in 10 blood transfusions carried the risk of passing the virus. Now its one in a million, Dr Goodman said. Mr Rice, 68, worked on hepatitis at Washington University in St Louis and now is at Rockefeller University in New York. Mr Alter, 85, worked for decades at the US National Institutes of Health and remains active there. Mr Houghton, 69, was born in Britain and worked on hepatitis at Chiron in California before moving to the University of Alberta in Canada. Mr Alter first discovered that blood from patients who did not have hepatitis B could still cause liver inflammation and disease, but for years the cause was unknown. A breakthrough came in 1989 when Mr Houghton and others at Chiron cloned the virus, making its genetic identity known and allowing further research on it, said Nobel Committee member Gunilla Karlsson-Hedestam. Expand Close Charles M Rice, professor of virology at Rockefeller University (John Minchillo/AP) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Charles M Rice, professor of virology at Rockefeller University (John Minchillo/AP) Later, Mr Rice developed lab tools and methods that confirmed the hepatitis C virus could cause liver disease in chimpanzees and humans, directly contributing knowledge that led to tests and treatments. We have not seen any more cases since 1997 of hepatitis from a transfusion, Mr Alter said. Currently we can cure virtually anybody whos identified. With that, its possible to maybe even eradicate this disease over the next decade. Nobel Committee member Patrik Ernfors drew a parallel between this years prize and the rush by millions of scientists around the world to find a vaccine to combat the coronavirus pandemic. The first thing you need to do is to identify the causing virus, he said. And once that has been done, that is, in itself, the starting point for development of drugs to treat the disease and also to develop vaccines against the disorder. 2020 #NobelPrize laureates Harvey J. Alter, Michael Houghton and Charles M. Rice made seminal discoveries that led to the identification of a novel virus, Hepatitis C virus. pic.twitter.com/rBRYjX9fA4 The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 5, 2020 Mr Alter and Mr Rice are now working on coronavirus research, while Mr Houghton is trying to develop a hepatitis C vaccine. He said manufacturing delays have been a problem but he expects clinical trials to begin next year in many countries, including the US, Germany and Italy. To control an epidemic, you need to have a vaccine, he said. For diseases like gonorrhoea, syphilis, chlamydia, weve had cheap drugs available for decades, and yet we still have big epidemics of those diseases. Hepatitis C drugs were around 40,000 dollars when they first came out less than a decade ago. They have come down to roughly a quarter of that but are still out of reach for much of the world. India, eastern Europe, Egypt and parts of Asia, including Mongolia, remain the areas hardest hit. Howie Hawkins says he hears almost every day from well-known environmental advocates who plead with him not to spoil the 2020 presidential election. Im getting a lot of celebrity calls trying to persuade me to stand down in the swing states, said Hawkins, the Syracuse activist who has never been elected to public office in 24 previous attempts. But now that hes the Green Party candidate for president, some prominent supporters of the movement openly worry he will draw votes from Joe Biden and help President Donald Trump win a second term. Hawkins is on the ballot in 30 states, representing 73% of American voters and 381 electoral votes. Hes also on the ballot in at least three battleground states where polls show Biden and Trump in a dead heat: Florida, North Carolina and Ohio. Four years ago, some Democrats blamed Green presidential candidate Jill Stein for Hillary Clintons razor-thin losses to Trump in Wisconsin, Michigan and Pennsylvania. Stein won more votes in each of those states than the margin between Clinton and Trump. Many still blame consumer advocate Ralph Nader for tipping Floridas vote in 2000 to George W. Bush, enabling the Republican to beat Vice President Al Gore, the Democrat. Hawkins bristles at the suggestion that swing states could hinge on how effectively he campaigns this year. He said his mission is simply to advance the Green Partys agenda. He said most of his voters would sit out this race if the Greens didnt have a candidate. Hawkins, 67, said the landscape is much different for the Green Party this year than four years ago. Stein was on the ballot in 44 states in 2016. Hawkins is on 30. He blames legal challenges from Democrats (who succeeded in keeping him off the ballot in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania) and the difficulty of passing nominating petitions during the coronavirus pandemic. In his failed attempt to get on the Wisconsin ballot, Hawkins accepted help from a law firm with ties to Republicans. Hawkins said he couldnt find any Democratic lawyers willing to take the case. Despite accepting help from Republican-leaning attorneys, Hawkins says he does not expect to do political damage to the Democratic nominee. Im concerned about getting Trump out of there, but Im not a spoiler, Hawkins said. If anybody is a spoiler, its Biden and the Democrats. Hawkins said he blames Democrats for not advocating for election reforms after George W. Bush and Trump lost the popular vote in 2000 and 2016 but won the presidency in the Electoral College count. Instead of fighting for that, they fight to keep the Green Party off the ballot, Hawkins said of Democrats. The Green Party has pushed to replace the Electoral College system with ranked-choice voting since Nader ran as the Green candidate in 2000. Bush won the presidency by squeaking past Gore by 537 votes in Florida that year (Nader had almost 100,000 votes in the state). With a national popular vote by ranked-choice, each voter would be asked to mark their presidential choices on the ballot in order of preference. Voters in Maine will use that system in November. If no candidate wins the majority, the last-place candidate is eliminated and those who voted for that candidate have their second choice counted. Ranked voting would assure the winner won the popular voting, Hawkins said. Hawkins will be on the ballot in Florida, North Carolina and Ohio key swing states where polls show Trump and Biden in a dead heat. He will also be in the ballot in states like Iowa and Texas that are still close. Hawkins said he understands why some Green Party supporters in those states feel too much is at stake in this election to vote for him. He acknowledges he has no chance of winning any state. If your conscience tells you and your thinking tells you that you have to vote for Biden to stop Trump, I understand, Hawkins said. Im not going to hold it against you. Lets figure out how to advance our agenda after the election. But Hawkins rejects the idea that Greens, who tend to be progressive and identify more with Democrats, can tip any state in favor of Trump. He said polling has shown most Greens wouldnt otherwise vote if they didnt have a choice in the presidential election. In 2016, a CBS News national exit poll found 61% of Steins voters wouldnt have voted without a Green Party candidate on the ballot. About 25% of Stein voters said they would have chosen Clinton if they didnt have a Green Party choice; 14% said they would have voted for Trump. Studies have shown that third party and independent candidates take some votes from both major political parties in presidential elections, said Barry Burden, a political science professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison who studies third-party candidates. Its a much more balanced impact on the major parties than people assume, Burden said. People who are attracted to the alternative candidates tend not to be attracted to the two major parties, Burden said. They are unpredictable. They tend to float from one candidate to another. Typically, half of the people who vote for third-party candidates say they would not have otherwise voted, he said. We see this for all third-party candidates, Burden said. They seem to be effective at turning out new voters. I think that causes some observers to make incorrect conclusions about what would have happened if third-party candidates had not run. But every so often, as Nader did in Florida in 2000, a third-party candidate does help tip an election, Burden said. That could be the case in a state like North Carolina this year. A New York Times-Siena College poll in September found Biden (45%) and Trump (44%) in a dead heat in the state followed by Libertarian Jo Jorgensen (2%) and Hawkins (1%). Libertarian candidates tend to draw more support from Republicans than Democrats, which could cancel out any votes the Green Party takes away from Democrats in such close races, Burden said. Still, its too close for comfort for some on the left who worry about having Hawkins on the ballot in swing states. Prominent climate activist and author Bill McKibben advised Hawkins and the Green Party in an April 15 commentary in The New Yorker to stand down in six or seven battleground states. McKibben wrote that most climate activists I know just shake their heads at the thought of a third-party challenge this November. He said Hawkins and the party should instead campaign for ranked-choice voting. Hawkins rejected the idea and said nobody should blame the Green Party if Biden cant maintain his lead in swing states. If Trump wins in some swing state, Id be mad as hell at Biden, Hawkins said. Biden should win by a landslide in the Electoral College. At this point, I think the only way Trump can win is if he suppresses the mail-in ballots. Hawkins said hes not the threat that some Democrats fear. He has struggled to raise $300,000 for a bare-bones campaign. The few campaign ads that he can afford appear on Facebook. His campaign staff has hovered between eight and 12 people, who are paid stipends instead of salaries. Hawkins drives himself to campaign appearances (his 2014 Hyundai Elantra hit 100,000 miles on a trip last week from Syracuse to Ohio), buys his own gas and meals, and stays with supporters rather than in hotels. He said the partys goals are simple: Let voters know that Greens have a plan to address life-and-death issues facing voters climate change, stopping the proliferation of nuclear weapons, and confronting racism and inequality. Hawkins said his goal is to win enough votes to keep the Green Party ballot line in 21 states, including New York. And if things go really well, Hawkins said, hed like to receive more votes than Trump in the District of Columbia. The president received only 4% of the vote in the nations capital in 2016. I want to beat Trump in D.C., Hawkins said. That would be a nice victory. MORE ON THE 2020 ELECTION Biden holds lead over Trump in Central New York (Siena | Syracuse.com poll) Syracuses Howie Hawkins, shut out of presidential debate, protests in Cleveland John Katko, Dana Balter in dead heat in House race Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact Mark Weiner anytime by: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 571-970-3751 Ahead of Rahul Gandhi's tractor rally in against the new farm laws, the BJP-led government on Monday said the Congress leader can bring a few people in the state but it will not permit a big crowd from Punjab which can "disturb" the atmosphere. Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said Gandhi has the right to put forth his views but if he comes with a big procession from Punjab, we won't allow that. Khattar said nobody will be permitted to spoil the atmosphere or take law and order into one's hands. If he wants to have his programme by having some people from the state accompany him, there is no objection, the chief minister told reporters on the planned two-day protests by the opposition party from Tuesday. He was replying to queries on the statement of state Home Minister Anil Vij that the government will not allow Gandhi to enter the state with a big crowd from Punjab and that the Congress leader can come "alone or with just a few people. Gandhi, who is holding tractor rallies in Punjab against the newly enacted farm laws, is scheduled to reach Pehowa town in Kurukshetra district of with his supporters on Tuesday and address a gathering. He will also address public gatherings in Karnal on Wednesday during his two-day visit, Congress leaders said. Vij said the issue concerns our law and order and two Congress-sponsored rallies were also stopped last month by us from entering our state. "If he (Rahul Gandhi) wants to come alone or with just a few people, there is no problem. He can come 100 times, we have no objection. But if he comes with a big crowd from Punjab to disturb Haryana's atmosphere, then we will not permit. We are not going to allow that," Vij told PTI on Monday. He alleged that the Congress, which is in power in Punjab, wants to use the state machinery to spoil Haryana's peaceful atmosphere, which we will not allow. Vij also accused the Congress of trying to instigate farmers of and said the state government will not let them succeed in their designs. "Under no circumstances will we allow Congress's evil designs to spoil peace and tranquillity in Haryana. We won't permit it at any cost, he said. Vij, who is also the health minister of Haryana, had said on October 1 too that Gandhi's tractor rally won't be allowed to enter the state. Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh had hit back, asking if a "jungle raj" is prevailing in Haryana. Senior Congress leader from Haryana and former state Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Sharma dared Vij to stop Gandhi from entering the state. He should remain present at the inter-state border when Rahul ji comes, said Sharma and asked how could he stop a citizen from exercising the democratic right to express views in a peaceful manner. After a night halt in Kurukshetra, Gandhi will visit Pipli on Wednesday morning, where he will meet the farmers who were allegedly lathicharged during a protest against the three farm legislation on September 10, Congress leaders said. The former Congress president will then proceed to Nilokheri and Karnal before returning to Delhi. Vij, who is a known baiter of the Nehru-Gandhi family, said no permission will be given to gather huge crowds at one place inside Haryana. I am bound by law, how can I permit huge crowds, Vij said. Vij also took a swipe at the Congress leaders for their tractor rally in Punjab They are not concerned about farmers, they are only doing in their name. "Rahul Gandhi, Amarinder Singh and (Punjab Congress chief) Sunil Jakhar ride a modified tractor. Even during their so-called protests, they do not want to part with luxury. They should see how hard a farmer toils in his fields, he said. Vij said the Congress was "misleading" farmers on the new laws, which are going to bring a big change for the better in the lives of peasants. On Amarinder Singh's criticism, he retorted, Actually, it is Punjab where there is no law and order. They talk about farmers, but they burn the tools they worship. First they (youth Congress workers) set fire to a tractor on Ambala border, later a tractor was set on fire by them in Delhi. (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.) Biologists with Constanta-based Grigore Antipa National Institute for Marine Research and Development (INCDM) has launched a national programme to survey and assess the quality and quantity of Black Sea rapa whelk (Rapana venosa) stocks financed by General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) under the BlackSea4Fish European project, according to Agerpres. According to INCDM Director General Simion Nicolaev, the ongoing research programme, carried out by the six riparian states, marks the first step towards the rational management of the veined rapa whelk population, an invasive gastropod that has become an important economic resource for the region. Buttressing the assessment will be data collected during over 300 trawls. During the research expeditions on the territorial waters, data will be collected that will provide an estimate of the distribution, abundance, size and age structure of the rapa whelk population and stocks in the Black Sea. "Given the high variability of catches and population structure recorded in different areas of the Black Sea, Romania has supported the idea of deepening knowledge of stocks, population structure, distribution and ethology of the rapa whelk to be used as a ground for appropriate sustainable exploitation measures. Thus, based on the proposal of the Working Group for the Black Sea, GFCM adopted Recommendation GFCM/42/2018/9 on a regional research programme for rapa whelk fisheries in the Black Sea in which we participate today together with the other Black Sea partners. In Romania, the autumn expedition started early this October, conducted by INCDM research ship Steaua de Mare 1, with a network of 50 stations located on the entire Romanian Black Sea coast," Nicolaev told AGERPRES. According to specialists, in the Romanian territorial waters there are currently resources for the sustainable catch of about 10,000 tonnes of rapa whelks annually. For 2020, INCDM scientists have scheduled 12 scientific expeditions on the Black Sea for the assessment of stocks of pelagic and demersal fish, marine biodiversity, as well as management plans for protected shallow-water and deep-sea areas. New Delhi: A major fire which broke out on Monday afternoon in a clothes factory at Mundka in West Delhi was doused by more than 27 fire fighters which rushed to the spot. A call was received at 1 PM about a fire breaking out in the factory located in Gali No-2 of Mundka, said an official from Delhi Fire Services. Twenty-seven fire tenders were rushed to the spot as soon as the news poured in. However, reasons of the fire remained unknown. The 1973 Arab-Israeli War, known in Egypt as the 6 October War, was fought by a coalition of Arab states led by Egypt and Syria against Israel Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi laid a wreath at the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier in Cairos Nasr City district on Monday, one day before the 47th anniversary of the 1973 war against Israel. The 1973 Arab-Israeli War, known in Egypt as the 6 October War, was fought by a coalition of Arab states led by Egypt and Syria against Israel. The war eventually led to Israeli forces withdrawing from the Sinai Peninsula on 25 April 1982 after 15 years of occupation, based on a peace treaty signed between Egypt and Israel in 1979. Egypt's Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said earlier that 8 October will be a paid holiday for civil servants and public sector workers in commemoration of the October War, instead of Tuesday. This comes as part of the governments decision earlier this year allocating Thursdays as an alternative to national holidays that coincide with other work days of the week. The decision does not include the holiday of the three-day Muslim holiday of Eid El-Fitr, the four-day Eid El-Adha and Christmas. Search Keywords: Short link: Liquor baron Vijay Mallyas extradition from United Kingdom (UK) to India has been delayed again due to fresh secret proceedings which have commenced in the UK, the central government told the Supreme Court on Monday. The next hearing will be on November 2. The government told the Apex Court that though the extradition proceedings had been complete after the UKs highest court had rejected Mallyas appeal, fresh proceedings have started, the exact nature of which is unknown to the Government of India. After extradition proceedings were complete, another secret proceeding has commenced but we have not been notified and we are not a party to the proceedings. The extradition which was upheld by the highest court of the UK is not happening (due to the new proceedings), advocate Rajat Nair who is representing the Centre told a bench headed by justice UU Lalit. The court then asked Mallyas counsel, Ankur Saigal, about the nature of the fresh proceedings but Saigal said that he did not have any instructions from his client regarding the same. The bench which also comprises Justice Ashok Bhushan took objection to Saigals response. As his counsel, you must be completely aware. You cannot say you are not aware, the court remarked. The court has ordered Mallyas lawyer to give concrete response on November 2 about the nature of the fresh proceedings in UK, when those proceedings are likely to conclude and when Mallya will appear before the Supreme Court. WASHINGTON - President Donald Trumps long-hidden tax returns leaked out. His first debate performance ignited a firestorm over white supremacy. He was hospitalized for COVID-19 after months of playing down the threat of a pandemic that has killed more than 200,000 Americans. And that was just this past week. Trumps reelection team, battered on all sides, now enters the final month of the campaign grappling with deficits in the polls, a shortage of cash and a candidate who is at least temporarily sidelined. The crises, many of Trumps own making, have come so quickly that they are hard to keep straight. Recordings revealed that he acknowledged minimizing the dangers of the coronavirus earlier this year. A blockbuster story raised questions over whether he privately belittled members of the military. And even the first lady was captured on tape expressing disdain for having to decorate the White House for Christmas. Are the political gods simply saying, Your run is over? That four years of chaos has caught up to you? asked Michael Steele, former head of the Republican Party. He predicts the presidents coronavirus diagnosis will overwhelm all the other massive storylines. We are a caring, forgiving people, Steele said of the American public. But while they may show him empathy, they also wont forget that he didnt do all the things he needed to protect himself and the American people. The presidents team is launching what it calls Operation MAGA to propel his campaign forward, even as he was being treated Sunday at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Although Trumps medical team raised the possibility that he could be released as early as Monday, significant questions remained about the presidents health and schedule. The challenges facing the reelection team are enormous. Both heads of Trumps political apparatus campaign manager Bill Stepien and Republican National Committee head Ronna McDaniel tested positive for COVID-19 this week. Also infected: several outside advisers who had been involved in the presidents debate preparations last week, including former White House senior adviser Kellyanne Conway and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. And that comes just days after Brad Parscale, who was demoted from his campaign manager post over the summer but remained in a senior role, was hospitalized. Police were called to his Florida home after his wife said he had a firearm and was acting suicidal. Deputy campaign manager Justin Clark is temporarily overseeing the campaigns headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. Stepien organized a late Saturday staff call to project an optimistic tone, even as he acknowledged the loss of the campaigns best asset, the president. We built a team thats stronger than any one of us singularly, he said. With early voting already underway in many states, Trump has consistently trailed Democrat Joe Biden in national polling even as the margins in most battleground states have been closer. This race is going to be super close. This is officially October. Its officially game time, Stepien said. These are crazy times. These weeks feel like months with the amount of action and news packed into each week. Vice-President Mike Pence outlined plans to launch a new effort to ramp up campaign appearances by Trump lieutenants who havent been infected. Pence himself will star in the new effort, in addition to Trumps children. Pence promised that he and the first family would begin fanning out across the country aggressively in person after Wednesdays vice-presidential debate. Weve got a campaign to run, Pence said. I promise you, this president, as soon as his doctors say so, hes going to be back out there. But Pences business as usual approach faced questions. Although Pence tested negative for the virus on Sunday, COVID-19 can have a lengthy incubation period. Pence attended a Sept. 26 White House event where Trump announced his Supreme Court pick. Several attendees at that event have since tested positive. Pence also has interacted with key aides since then who have also been exposed. With Trump still not out of the woods, in the words of his doctors, Pence plans to travel to Arizona on Thursday, Indiana on Friday and Florida on Saturday for events rather than isolating himself after potential exposure and trying to protect himself from contracting the virus anywhere else. Were in a campaign. We have a month to go, senior campaign adviser Jason Miller said Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press. We see Joe Biden and Kamala Harris out there campaigning. The Trump campaign was already facing a significant cash deficit to Biden, and now the president has been sidelined from in-person fundraising as well as his signature rallies just as the campaign was about to ramp up his travel schedule. Plans for upcoming events in Florida, Wisconsin, Arizona and Nevada were all scrapped after his diagnosis, and it remained unclear when or if the president would be able to resume campaigning. Hes losing, and the debate was a disaster, and the campaign is imploding, said Republican strategist Steve Schmidt, a vocal Trump critic. The presidents hospitalization also underscores what has long been the Trump campaigns greatest challenge: its inability to shift the national discourse away from the virus. For months, even as the campaign has tried to frame the election as a choice between Trump and Biden, the race has been perceived largely as a referendum on the presidents handling of the pandemic. And Trumps tone on the virus has changed little despite his illness. In a video released late Saturday from the hospital, he expressed no contrition for his handling of the virus and still spoke of quickly moving beyond the pandemic. He is a struggling incumbent, and this all makes reelection much harder. More importantly, the more the nation is discussing the pandemic, the harder the debate gets for the president, said Julian Zelizer, a presidential historian at Princeton University. Still, Zelizer said it would be premature to count Trump out, with a full month to go until Election Day. He has three tools still at his disposal unyielding Republican loyalty, the Electoral College and the power of the presidency, Zelizer said. His ability to tie up voting and spread disinformation remains formidable. For some Democrats, burned by Trumps late surge to defeat Hillary Clinton in 2016, Nov. 3 cant come soon enough. Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville declared: Lets go to the polls tomorrow. ___ Peoples reported from New York. Associated Press writer Jill Colvin in Washington contributed to this report. Even teleprompter could not take so many lies: Rahul's dig at PM Modis Davos speech After Punjab, Rahul Gandhi to hold tractor rallies in Haryana India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, Oct 05: After Punjab, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will visit Haryana on Tuesday to hold a 2-day tractor rally against the recently enacted agriculture laws. Gandhi will hold the rallies in Kurukshetra and Karnal districts of the state, party leaders said. The Congress leader, who arrived in Punjab on Sunday for a three-day visit to lead a series of tractor rallies against the Centre''s farm laws, will on October 6 lead a tractor rally which will enter Haryana, they said. Navjot Sidhu attends Rahul Gandhi-led tractor rally in Punjab JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News Congress'' Haryana unit held a meeting of party MLAs and senior leaders in Delhi to take stock of the preparations in connection with Gandhi's visit to the state. Haryana Congress in-charge Vivek Bansal, state Congress president Kumari Selja, Leader of Opposition Bhupinder Singh Hooda, and senior leaders Kiran Choudhary and Ajay Singh Yadav were also present in the meeting. "His (Rahul Gandhi) visit will prove to be a milestone in the battle of farmers. On October 6 and 7, Rahul Gandhi will be on a two-day visit to Haryana. On the first day, his rally will enter Pehowa in Haryana from Punjab border. In Pehowa, he will address the people," Selja said. "After this, Rahul Gandhi will go to Kurukshetra and halt there for the night. His journey will start from Pipli Mandi next morning from where he will proceed to Nilokheri and after that he will go to Karnal, where the tractor rally will culminate," she said. Selja said Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders have been raising the issues of farmers, workers and common people. "Just as Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra went to Hathras on Saturday and shared the grief and pain of the Dalit family, in the same way, he will come to the state to share the pain of farmers because the government does not have time to understand and discuss their sufferings," she said. Hooda said the new farm laws were not in the interest of farmers. "Rahul Gandhi is coming to Haryana to protest against these black laws," the former chief minister said. Farm laws: On Day 2, Rahul Gandhi to continue his attack on Centre Meanwhile, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday said, "We have not received any intimation about his (Rahul''s) programme so far." The remarks come after Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij earlier said the Congress leader's tractor rally will not be given permission to enter the state. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event in Karnal, the CM hailed the three farm laws as a "game changer". "Farmers are going to benefit in a big way," he said. Accusing the Congress of misleading farmers on the laws, Khattar said paddy and other crop procurement at minimum support price (MSP) was being smoothly done across the state. "On the Citizenship Amendment Act and revoking of Article 370 and so many other issues, the Congress tired to mislead the people. But people soon realised that these steps were taken for their larger benefit keeping the country''s interests above all. Similarly, farmers have started realising that Congress is trying to use their shoulder to further their own interests," he said. Speaking in Sirsa, Haryana Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala said, "Rahul Gandhi does not understand the basics of agriculture and now he wants to hold protests on these three laws." "If journalists confront him and ask him about the three laws, he will not be able to tell about their benefits or losses. So, Congress is only doing politics over the issue and nothing else. "It was during the Congress-led UPA regime that a five-member committee of chief ministers gave a report on open market access. Now, they are opposing the reforms brought by the Centre," Chautala said. He added that the central and state governments have taken many "historic decisions" in the interest of farmers and the work to double the farmers'' income was being done earnestly. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 12:03 [IST] A leak of toxic rocket fuel is the likely cause of a pollution catastrophe at one of Russia's top surfing beaches, says a leading ecologist. Locals have reported debilitating medical problems including loss of sight, burning and swollen eyes, fever, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes and head and throat aches. People have been warned to stay away from black-sand Khalaktyrsky beach on the country's Pacific shoreline. The beach is now littered with hundreds of dead sea animals such as Giant Pacific octopuses, seals, sea urchins, star fish, crabs, and fish. Khalaktyrsky beach in Kamchatka, Russia, is littered with hundreds of dead sea animals such as Giant Pacific octopuses, seals, sea urchins, star fish, crabs, and fish The local sea life has piled up on the beaches after the pollution catastrophe. The Russian Pacific Fleet today strongly denied any recent military exercises could be responsible for the pollution A leak of toxic rocket fuel used to power missiles into the sea (pictured, having turned a yellowish colour) has been labelled the most likely cause of the loss of sight, burning and swollen eyes, fever, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes and head and throat aches experienced by locals Pictures and video shows the appalling pollution foaming yellow-tinged waves on the popular surfing beach close to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, capital of glacier-and-volcano Kamchatka region. Now it has emerged that a landfill site under an active 7,182ft Kozelsky volcano was used to bury rocket fuels as well as arsenic and mercury after the collapse of the USSR. A major effort is underway to analyse the pollution in the ocean and determine the cause, including the possibility that the poisoning is natural from seismic activity, a theory dismissed by experts today. Ecologist Dmitry Lisitsyn said: 'The burial of old rocket fuel at the Radygino test site is certainly the most likely cause of the disaster.' Satellite images from the beginning of September 2020 shows some yellow substance flow into the Pacific Ocean. Scientist Vladimir Burkanov, a former government official, said: 'If you look at the satellite map of this area, streams flow between Radygino and the ocean coast. 'They go out to the ocean just north of the surfers' beach' A dog smells a dead seal on the polluted Khakaktyrsky beach, Kamchatka Missile fuel stocks of deadly sarin and melange are both believed to have been stashed here. Scientist Vladimir Burkanov, a former government official, said: 'Containers could rust and fuel flow along with atmospheric precipitation. 'If you look at the satellite map of this area, streams flow between Radygino and the ocean coast. 'They go out to the ocean just north of the surfers' beach. The pollution continues to spread all around Kamchatka 'The current in the ocean in this place moves from north to south, that is, directly to the surfing place. 'There was a cyclone around 9 September. 'Most likely it brought the rocket fuel into the ocean along with the rainfall.' This coincides with the timing of the first burns experienced by surfers - but since then the crisis has worsened. The Russian Pacific Fleet today strongly denied any recent military exercises could be responsible for the pollution. Kamchatka governor Vladimir Solodov has urged residents to refrain from going to the beach. Satellite images show pollution in the ocean beginning in early September. A surfer nicknamed Yola_La said: 'We received satellite pictures from Greenpeace of the river that flows into the ocean - and which evidently killed everything. 'Upstream there is a military training ground. 'Knowing how the system works - and how these kinds of questions are hushed - we must do everything in our power to save the ocean and defend it from a catastrophe in the future.' The beach 'has changed colour and is no longer safe for people's health', said a Greenpeace Russia statement. 'Doctors have registered eye corneal burns. A landfill site under active 7,182ft Kozelsky volcano was used to bury rocket fuels as well as arsenic and mercury after the collapse of the USSR. Pictured: An octopus and marine animals on the shore of the Spaseniya Bay People have been warned to stay away from black-sand Khalaktyrsky beach on the country's Pacific shoreline. Pictured: Volcanoes and waves of Khalaktysky beach, Kamchatka, before the pollution 'Many people who have been in the water also show symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, weakness, high fever, which may indicate phenol poisoning.' The head of Greenpeace Climate Project in Russia, Vasily Yablokov, called for immediate action to contain, clean and prevent further pollution. 'Khalaktyrsky beach water pollution has already led to the death of sea animals and the poisoning of people,' he said. 'The unique nature of Kamchatka, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, is under threat. The head of Greenpeace Climate Project in Russia, Vasily Yablokov, called for immediate action to contain, clean and prevent further pollution. Pictured: Environmentalists sample water at the polluted Khakaktyrsky beach, Kamchatka 'One of the best surfing beaches in Russia, one of the main tourist attractions of the region is now life-threatening' Surfer Artyom Yumatov shared: 'Yesterday at the hospital I was diagnosed with 1st degree corneal burns.' Another surfer reported 'a white film' on his eyes. At night his eyelids stuck together. Local Kristy_Rozenberg wrote: 'Our beautiful underwater world is now colour grey and yellow. 'The fish look like they have been boiled. 'Even the strongest shells that could tear a diving suit fell off the rocks. 'The scariest of all is that we don't know what to do, how to help.' Head of Kamchatka's natural resources and ecology ministry, Alexey Kumarkov, said: 'The massive scale indicates that it is related to chemical pollution. We are determining its source.' Senior Russian scientist Ivan Kulakov said the two volcanoes in the area had been calm for the past six months, so it was unlikely the cause of the pollution was natural toxic substances. 'I am not aware of cases when the release of toxic substances during the hydrothermal activity of a volcano was so huge that it would be enough to pollute a large area of the ocean,' he said. Surfer Anton Morosov suffered chemical burns to his eyes and said the waters have changed colour He said: 'Just yesterday they gave an opinion to a girl who has not entered the water for two weeks, but lives on the shore. 'We also have complaints from people who just walk on the beach: it was after a storm, when it was clear from the shore that the water had turned yellow-green. 'Some people say that this poisonous algae is blooming, but this is the first time in my memory. 'This is definitely some kind of chemistry, so first of all you need to find out what it is and where it comes from. 'We need to understand what will happen to our health, to the health of animals.' (Newser) Life goes on in Portland, but not peacefully. Among the tales: A man was arrested Sunday morning for allegedly shattering the window of a police cruiser and pepper-spraying the officer inside, per KATU. The suspect, 41-year-old John Russell, was later arrested, with a slingshot, laser pointer, window punch tool, and other items found in his car, police say. "Attacks like this one remind us all that there is the potential for people to try to take direct violent action against police officers," said Portland Police Bureau Chief Chuck Lovell. "I applaud the officer for remaining calm and locating the involved subject and thank our investigators for furthering this investigation." Meanwhile, the Oregonian reports on video of a Portland cop driving his motorbike into a protester Friday night and pushing her a fair distance. story continues below Police say she jumped on the motorcycle after the officer pulled over vehicles that had been blocking traffic, but an independent photojournalist saw it differently: "No one 'jumped on the motorcycle,'" said Sean Bascom. "The protesters planted their feet in front of it and were driven into." Videos show police approaching the woman after she fell to offer medical attention if needed, but an argument broke out and one person was detained. The protests paused briefly last month due to poor air quality caused by wildfires, per KOIN, which notes six people were arrested by the end of Sunday night. (Read more Portland stories.) Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue offered a spirited pitch for voters to reelect President Donald Trump at an official USDA event with North Carolina food producers in August, sending the audience into a chant of Four more years! The pep talk landed Perdue in the crosshairs of ethics watchdogs, who filed a formal complaint alleging that the USDA chief was improperly using his appearance on the taxpayers dime to boost Trumps prospects in November. Democrats called Perdues remarks a blatant violation of federal law in a letter to the Agriculture Departments ethics office. Trump administration officials have often blurred the lines between public duties and political promotion. The Office of Special Counsel has issued warnings to a dozen of them for violating the Hatch Act, the federal law barring some political activity by executive branch employees, and is even now investigating Education Secretary Betsy DeVos for criticizing Trump's election opponent, former Vice President Joe Biden, on television. But even by those standards, Perdues use of the levers of government to help Trumps reelection stand out. On top of his overt appeal to reelect the president, Perdue has kept many farmers in Trumps corner by doling out unprecedented sums of taxpayer aid to offset the industrys losses after years of trade turmoil and painful biofuel policies. Democrats have questioned the practice, but have made almost no effort to attach any strings to the payments. Now, Perdue is facing a fresh round of criticism for requiring federal contractors to stuff promotional letters from Trump into millions of USDA food boxes distributed to needy families, over the objections of lawmakers and many food banks. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue The Agriculture Department says these activities arent political and rejects the allegation that the signed letters are a violation of the Hatch Act, the federal law preventing executive branch employees from engaging in some political activity. Story continues Perdue, who has visited all 50 states since he joined the administration in 2017, is a crucial tie to rural voters whom Trump is counting on to show up in force on Nov. 3. Running up huge rural margins in crucial battleground states like Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, as Trump did in 2016, will be trickier this time as many of those areas continue to feel the economic sting of his trade war with China, a lackluster pandemic response and ethanol blending waivers his administration handed out to oil refiners. Polling from Fox News in July found that 49 percent of rural voters supported Trump and 40 percent were backing Biden a much narrower gap than Trumps 25-point lead over Hillary Clinton in 2016, according to exit polls. The secretary has made dozens of trips around the country to meet with agricultural producers, rural businesses and local leaders. He frequently vouches for Trumps affinity for farmers crucial reassurance for those in the industry, considering the presidents background as a reality TV star and real estate developer in Manhattan, a world away from farming. Perdue has also spread the administrations message, for example, about the need to take on Chinese trade practices even if it means immediate pain for producers. Not all farmers and ranchers are enamored with Perdue, who has implemented regulatory policies that effectively boost large agribusinesses at the expense of small farmers. That trend is what convinced John Boyd, president of the National Black Farmers Association, to back Biden in November, POLITICO reported last month. But for the most part, the rapid increase of money flowing into farm country and the sustained rural outreach by Trump officials and surrogates appear to be delivering results. A poll from DTN and Zogby Analytics in September gave Trump an 18-point edge over Biden among farmers. Most critically, Perdue has designed a series of trade and pandemic relief programs that have funneled unprecedented sums of taxpayer dollars to the farm industry, offsetting most of the sectors financial losses since 2018. The government was already projected to pay farmers a record $37 billion this year not including another $14 billion in additional payments that USDA rolled out last month. Under the Obama administration, farm subsidies ranged from roughly $10 billion to $13 billion each year. The payouts are so large that World Trade Organization members recently confronted the U.S. for potentially running afoul of its commitments to limit trade-distorting farm subsidies to roughly $19 billion per year. Trump routinely points to the money at campaign rallies as his biggest gift to farmers and ranchers, who remain among his most loyal supporters. Any farmers in this group? Because youve got to love Trump, he said at a September rally in Mosinee, Wis. Did everybody get that money? The presidents use of the program as a political prop has angered Democrats to the point that they threatened to crack down on the USDA payments in a recent stopgap spending bill to avert a government shutdown. Democrats and watchdog groups also allege that the bailout programs designed by Perdues office have disproportionately benefited Southern states and larger farms. A report from the Government Accountability Office last month showed that under the 2019 trade aid program, the average payment to producers in Georgia, Perdues home state, was more than $42,500 the highest rate of any state and more than double the national average of $16,500. He certainly put together a program that favored the crops in his state, said Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow, top Democrat on the Senate Agriculture Committee, adding that the administration needs to stop playing favorites. USDA has repeatedly rejected suggestions of favoritism, noting that the tariff relief payments were linked to the trade-related losses in each commodity sector. The department also points out that while large operations represent just one in 10 farms, they account for more than half of all farmland and nearly 80 percent of total agricultural production value meaning their trade-related losses were greater than those of smaller farms. The North Carolina event in August with the president and Ivanka Trump, the presidents daughter and White House adviser, was held to showcase the $4 billion food box delivery program and gather feedback from participating packers and farmers. But in a lengthy endorsement afterward, Perdue praised Trump as a champion for forgotten people and a tireless worker with business speed, not government speed, among other plaudits. The nonpartisan Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington claims Perdue's remarks were a clear case of political activity in violation of the Hatch Act . Secretary Perdues behavior is beyond inappropriate for someone in his position, CREW Deputy Director Donald Sherman said at the time. Nick Schwellenbach, senior investigator at the Project on Government Oversight, called the incident a point blank Hatch Act violation. That overt mixture of his official government duties and expressing advocacy for a candidate in an upcoming election is totally prohibited, he said. Most recently, Perdue is under scrutiny for requiring signed letters from Trump to be placed in millions of food boxes for hungry families. The letters include promotional language about the administrations efforts to support Americas recovery every step of the way along with health recommendations like urging recipients to wash their hands and practice social distancing. Democrats arent buying the departments statement that politics have played zero role in the aid program. Using a federal relief program to distribute a self-promoting letter from the president to American families just three months before the presidential election is inappropriate and a violation of federal law, a group of House Democrats wrote to Perdue in August. We strongly urge you to end the practice immediately. But even if Perdues activities are deemed to be a violation of the ethics law, the consequences are likely to be minimal: The Office of Special Counsel has determined that at least 12 senior Trump officials have violated the Hatch Act over the course of the administration, but let most off with a warning letter. Trump declined to act on the one case that was sent to him for action, which involved former senior counselor Kellyanne Conway. Trumps White House so far really has not disciplined any political appointee who has been found in violation of the Hatch Act, Schwellenbach said. He added: Its not always clear when something is a violation of the Hatch Act versus something thats just a gross, potentially abusive use of the powers of incumbency. Amid gloom the body of a young soldier, who died under mysterious circumstances in Uri sector on Thursday, was cremated with full military honours at Jammus Shastri Nagar crematorium on Sunday. On Saturday his family members had placed his body at the busy Satwari Chowk in Jammu and disrupted traffic movement for over two hours. Rifleman Rakshit Choudhary (21), was the son of Kuldeep Singh of Barota Camp in Ramgarh sector of Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir. The family currently lives in Sanjay Nagar area of Jammu city. The family had alleged that something wrong was done to the soldier, who had a passion to join the army and was a C certificate holder. The Army had stated that the soldier had died by suicide. However, the soldiers mother had outrightly refuted the Armys claims saying, How could he kill himself? I talked to him that morning at 8 am and he sounded cheerful. He was a bachelor and had no problem back home. The mortal remains of the soldier were consigned to flames with full military honours, a Defence spokesman said. The family was outraged on Saturday morning when the body arrived in a private vehicle escorted by two soldiers in civilian clothes and who headed to their homes on leave. The Army has already ordered a court of inquiry into the incident. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Prime Minister is set to address the Responsible AI for Social Empowerment (RAISE 2020) summit scheduled to take place on Monday evening. "Looking forward to address The Responsible AI for Social Empowerment (RAISE 2020) Virtual Summit at 7 pm this evening. This summit brings together tech leaders from across the world to discuss aspects relating to AI," the Prime Minister tweeted. The Responsible AI for Social Empowerment (RAISE 2020) virtual summit will be a Global summit organised by the Government of India in partnership with industry and academia. The summit will be a global meeting of minds to exchange ideas and charter a course to use AI for social empowerment, inclusion, and transformation in key areas like Healthcare, Agriculture, Education and Smart Mobility amongst other sectors. (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.) If we want to find a stock that could multiply over the long term, what are the underlying trends we should look for? One common approach is to try and find a company with returns on capital employed (ROCE) that are increasing, in conjunction with a growing amount of capital employed. This shows us that it's a compounding machine, able to continually reinvest its earnings back into the business and generate higher returns. So, when we ran our eye over South Port New Zealand's (NZSE:SPN) trend of ROCE, we really liked what we saw. What is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)? For those who don't know, ROCE is a measure of a company's yearly pre-tax profit (its return), relative to the capital employed in the business. Analysts use this formula to calculate it for South Port New Zealand: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.27 = NZ$14m (NZ$59m - NZ$7.7m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2020). Therefore, South Port New Zealand has an ROCE of 27%. That's a fantastic return and not only that, it outpaces the average of 8.1% earned by companies in a similar industry. View our latest analysis for South Port New Zealand roce While the past is not representative of the future, it can be helpful to know how a company has performed historically, which is why we have this chart above. If you want to delve into the historical earnings, revenue and cash flow of South Port New Zealand, check out these free graphs here. So How Is South Port New Zealand's ROCE Trending? South Port New Zealand deserves to be commended in regards to it's returns. The company has employed 23% more capital in the last five years, and the returns on that capital have remained stable at 27%. Now considering ROCE is an attractive 27%, this combination is actually pretty appealing because it means the business can consistently put money to work and generate these high returns. If South Port New Zealand can keep this up, we'd be very optimistic about its future. Story continues Our Take On South Port New Zealand's ROCE In short, we'd argue South Port New Zealand has the makings of a multi-bagger since its been able to compound its capital at very profitable rates of return. And the stock has followed suit returning a meaningful 90% to shareholders over the last five years. So while investors seem to be recognizing these promising trends, we still believe the stock deserves further research. While South Port New Zealand looks impressive, no company is worth an infinite price. The intrinsic value infographic in our free research report helps visualize whether SPN is currently trading for a fair price. High returns are a key ingredient to strong performance, so check out our free list ofstocks earning high returns on equity with solid balance sheets. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com. EU member states have thrown their weight behind two women candidates to lead the World Trade Organization, one from Nigeria and the other from South Korea, diplomats said on Monday. European envoys gave their support to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Nigeria's former finance minister, and Yoo Myung-hee, South Korea's trade chief, at a meeting in Brussels. The long-expected endorsement was blocked until the last minute by Hungary, which had lent its support to Britain's former trade minister Liam Fox and Amina Mohamed of Kenya. The EU's backing gives the two candidates a big boost, coming a day before an initial pool of eight candidates to replace Roberto Azevedo, who stepped down as the WTO director-general last month, is whittled down to two. The choice of Okonjo-Iweala comes amid calls for an African to finally get a shot at running the organisation, which has counted three director-generals from Europe, and one each from Oceania, Asia and South America since its creation in 1995. The WTO aims to select a winner in November, but some have expressed concern that political bickering could draw out the process. The global trade body has faced relentless attacks from Washington, which has crippled the WTO dispute settlement appeal system and threatened to leave the organisation altogether. Crude palm oil (CPO) futures declined to Rs 752.40 per 10 kg on October 5 as participants increased their short position as seen by the open interest. Malaysian palm oil futures fell marginally by 0.07 percent to trade at 2,764 Ringgits on Bursa Malaysia Bhd. According to Solvent Extractors Association (SEA), CPO import fell by 10.08 percent on yearly basis in August 2020 to 7.34 lakh tons from 8.24 lakh tons in July 2020. Sunand Subramaniam, Senior Research Analyst at Choice Broking said, MCX CPO futures to be bearish as rupee is forecasted to find strength with respect to dollar which could reduce import costs to India. The strong rupee is projected to reduce the price disparity and ease the pain of imports of palm oil in India. The demand in the domestic market is likely to remain lower after the Government of India banned mixing of mustard oil with other edible oils such as crude palm oil, he said. In the futures market, CPO for October delivery touched an intraday high of Rs 758.90 and an intraday low of Rs 747.20 per 10 kg on MCX. So far in the current series, CPO has touched a low of Rs 710.40 and a high of Rs 818.50. CPO delivery for October slipped 5.40, or 0.71 percent at Rs 752.40 per 10 kg at 16:22 hours IST with a business turnover of 4,539 lots. CPO delivery for November eased Rs 6.70, or 0.89 percent at Rs 744.10 per 10 kg with a business volume of 2,125 lots. The value of October and November contracts traded so far is Rs 169.72 crore and Rs 27.90 crore, respectively. Subramaniam expects bearish trend for the month ahead and recommends selling in MCX CPO October futures at CMP Rs 750/kg for a target price of Rs 720/kg and maintaining a stop loss above Rs 765/kg on a closing basis. Drane faces a sentence of between six and 60 years in prison and will be sentenced on Jan. 8, 2021. In addition to a prison term, Drane will also have to register for life as a sexual offender. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Tue, October 6 2020 Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko has warned the Save Indonesia Action Coalition (KAMI) not to disrupt the nations political stability, alleging its members of having certain interests" in forming the group. "Don't even try to disrupt political stability. [...] Everything comes with a risk," Moeldoko said in a statement on Thursday as reported by kompas.com, implying that any actions by the group that disrupted national stability would have consequences. KAMI was founded when 150 prominent public figures came together on Aug. 18, 2020, the day after Independence Day. According to KAMI cofounder and former Muhammadiyah chairman Din Syamsudin, the group aimed to prevent any deviations from Indonesias founding principles. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login ST. LOUIS Missouris 2nd Congressional District, where Democratic state Sen. Jill Schupp seeks to unseat Republican U.S. Rep. Ann Wagner, is prime staging for a national fight over the countrys suburbs. The relatively affluent and educated, majority white district which takes in much of St. Louis County and parts of St. Charles and Jefferson counties has had Republican representation in Congress for all but two of the past 33 years. President Donald Trump won the district, which boasts higher turnout than its counterparts, by 10 percentage points in 2016. But suburban voters women in particular have soured on the GOP under Trump since, leading Democrats in 2018 to retake the House by flipping dozens of suburban districts. Wagner, who won three previous elections by 20 or more points, saw her lead shaved to 4 points against political newcomer Cort VanOstran, whose campaign focused on fighting GOP efforts to overturn the Affordable Care Act. Schupp, a four-term state legislator, seeks to unseat Wagner with the same focus. The incumbent supports GOP efforts to end the ACA, a move that Schupp contends would leave millions without health coverage and eliminate protections for people with preexisting conditions. She has absolutely voted against the interests of this district, said Schupp, 65, of Creve Coeur, who launched her bid in late 2019, and I just couldnt sit on the sidelines anymore. But Wagner said there are better, more cost-effective alternatives to the Affordable Care Act. Moreover, she says her constituents have benefited from policies advanced by Trump and the GOP. I line up dead ahead in terms of the policies that he has promoted, said Wagner, 58, of Ballwin, that I think have helped lead to some of the greatest economic growth, and safety and security in our world, and in our country, that weve ever seen. COVID a top issue The candidates have stark policy differences reflecting their parties centrist positions on issues including abortion access, immigration and gun ownership. But ahead of the Nov. 3 election, COVID-19 and its impact on the economy as well as health care is on the top of voters minds, both Wagner and Schupp said. Schupp has criticized what she said were delays by the GOP-controlled Missouri Legislature and Gov. Mike Parson to order social distancing and use federal aid to trace the virus spread. She said Wagners continued support for a lawsuit by Republican attorneys general to invalidate the ACA underscores a failed response to the virus by Trump and the GOP-controlled Senate. This party has not stepped up to help us as a nation get past COVID, and certainly Ann Wagner hasnt either, she said. How are we going to rebuild the economy with this virus still taking peoples lives? Wagner, who quarantined herself in March after potential exposure to COVID-19, said Democrats criticism of the Trump administrations response to the pandemic doesnt take into account that little was known initially about how the virus spreads and the best ways to fight it. I think thats just political posturing, she said of Schupps criticisms. Wagner paid for local radio advertisements encouraging people to wear masks and social distance, she said, and made legislation like stimulus checks and unemployment aid a focus for the Republican Suburban Caucus, a group she chairs of 32 GOP House members representing suburban districts. With the election looming, she has also publicly called on St. Louis County government to distribute federal coronavirus aid to the countys 88 municipalities, blasting county leadership before a House Financial Services committee meeting Sept. 10. Experience Wagner grew up in south St. Louis County and studied business administration at the University of Missouri-Columbia. She worked as a manager at Hallmark Cards in Kansas City and Ralston Purina in St. Louis before entering politics, becoming a prolific Republican fundraiser and top official in the Missouri and national GOP parties. In 2005, she was appointed by former President George W. Bush as ambassador to Luxembourg. She won election to the House in 2012, where she now serves on the House committees on foreign affairs and financial services. Wagner lists among her chief accomplishments the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, a 2015 law that criminalized the advertisement of trafficked children, and the Allow States and Victims to Fight Online Sex Trafficking, or FOSTA, Act, a 2018 law she pushed with then-Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Missouri, designed to curb sex trafficking and prostitution by reducing legal protections for online advertising platforms. She has also fought to keep federal funding for local production of military planes. Schupp, whose state senate district encompasses a politically mixed area with some of St. Louis Countys most affluent communities, is one of few Missouri Democrats to win a high-profile race in recent election cycles. In 2014, she narrowly defeated Republican Jay Ashcroft in the 24th Senate District; Ashcroft is now secretary of state. Schupp grew up in University City and graduated from the University of Missouri. She worked at public schools in California before becoming an elementary school teacher in Normandy, and later went to work at an advertising agency. She was elected in 2000 to the Ladue School Board, the Creve Coeur City Council in 2007, and the Missouri House in 2008. She has represented western St. Louis County suburbs in the Legislature as both a House member and senator. She has listed as her chief accomplishments Nathans Law, which aimed to increase safety at day care centers by restricting capacity, and the Justice for Survivors Act, creating a network of nurse practitioners to handle sexual assault cases. She has also pushed legislation to forbid surprise emergency-room bills and to require training for mental health professionals to help curtail youth suicide. Health care, crime The competitiveness of the race has seen both candidates launch a slew of advertisements that echo their counterparts ads in other House races: Democrats slam Republicans for votes to repeal the ACA; Republicans have touted police support while trying to tie Democrats to left-wing proposals like defunding police and universal health care. Schupp does not support defunding police nor universal health care, she said. She wants to strengthen the Affordable Care Act with more public options, while allowing people to remain with private insurance if they choose, Schupp said. What I support is a public option that allows people to get the care that they need, she said. She pointed to an Aug. 4 vote to expand Medicaid with federal funding from the ACA. The ballot issue won the support of 53% of Missouri voters. Schupp had unsuccessfully pushed for Medicaid expansion in the GOP-controlled Legislature. I wasnt able to get that done through the Legislature, Schupp said, but the people of Missouri clearly wanted it done. Wagner says she will protect preexisting conditions with a bill she introduced in 2019 that would write the protection into federal patients rights laws, and support health savings accounts and association health care plans, which allow people to buy coverage pooled through industry groups. Weve got to lift up the private insurance market and allow for association health care plans, making sure that we have catastrophic coverage that you can buy across state lines, she said. Wagner has campaigned on conservative values, including scaling back regulations, and a firm stance against abortions, except in cases of rape, incest or dangerous pregnancy. I believe my views on life are more in line with the district than Jill Schupps radical, extreme views on the issue, she said. And she has touted endorsements from the Missouri Farm Bureau, National Rifle Association, the St. Louis County Police Association, and the state police and firefighters unions. This is a law-and-order district, Wagner said. Wagner, in addition to advertisements trying to tie Schupp to left-wing movements, also accused Schupp of siding with dangerous criminals in an ad labeled mostly false by the nonpartisan Politifact. Schupp said the ads are a deflection, and accused Wagner of being absent from the district. People want access to who is representing them, Schupp said. Schupp has campaigned on supporting Obama-era immigration policies, reentering the Paris Agreement on climate, and strengthening labor unions, touting endorsements from the Missouri AFL-CIO and Sierra Club. She was endorsed by Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden and longtime Creve Coeur Mayor Harold Dielmann, a Republican. She supports abortion access and health care coverage providing women access to contraceptives. I trust women, she said, to make the right decision for themselves and their families. Fundraising Schupp, who has vowed not to accept campaign contributions from corporations, has outraised Wagner in recent months after launching her campaign in December. As of July, she raised just more than $2 million, according to the latest filings available from federal elections officials. Top donors include lawyers and lobbyists, educators and labor groups. Wagner, with national connections through the state and national GOP parties, has raised about $3.3 million this election cycle as of July, according to FEC reports. Her top donors include the insurance and finance industries and conservative political action committees. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Democratic presidential nominee and former vice president Joe Biden speaks at a campaign stop in Miami on Oct. 5, 2020. WASHINGTON Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden traveled to the heart of the Cuban-American diaspora on Monday, to the Little Havana neighborhood of Miami, to make his case to a community of voters who have traditionally supported Republicans for president. "Cuba is no closer to freedom and democracy than it was four years ago. In fact, there's more political prisoners, the secret police are as brutal as ever, and Russia is once again a major presence in Cuba," Biden said during a speech at the Jose Marti community gym before a small crowd of socially distanced supporters and journalists. "For my entire career, I stood for democracy and human rights, for freedom of the press, assembly and religion against dictators of the left and the right," he said. President Donald Trump has made his administration's hardline approach to Cuba a central piece of his foreign policy, reversing Obama-era policies that had allowed limited travel and trade with the island to resume after decades of embargoes. Biden also addressed the twin political and humanitarian crises in Venezuela, which is under the rule of autocratic socialist President Nicolas Maduro. Biden pledged that if he is elected in November, he will immediately grant Temporary Protected Status to Venezuelan immigrants and refugees in the United States. Trump has also made much of his opposition to Maduro, but he has not embraced TPS for Venezuelans already living in the United States. Less than a month from Election Day, polls show Biden faces an uphill climb in his effort to win over Cuban-Americans in this critical battleground state. According to a major poll released Friday by Florida International University, 59% of Cuban-Americans in South Florida plan to vote for Trump this year, while only 25% said they would vote for Biden. Another 16% were undecided or didn't plan to support either candidate. Nationwide, Biden leads Trump by an average of 8.5 points, and the former vice president leads in Florida by an average of 4 points. Biden also holds a significant advantage among Hispanic voters nationwide: A recent NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll showed the president trailing Biden by more than 35 points among Hispanic voters, with 26% support to Biden's 62%. Biden's deficit among Cuban-Americans is due in part to a massive effort by the Trump campaign and Republicans more generally to paint Biden as a socialist. It is a false allegation, but it is one that resonates with a community founded by tens of thousands of Cubans who fled Communism in the last century. Below is an ad by the Trump campaign in Spanish that directly ties progressivism to socialism using historical footage of Latin American autocrats. In addition to speaking directly about Cuba and Venezuela, Biden also appeared to soften his policy of not attacking Trump while the president was in the hospital being treated for Covid-19. Shortly before Biden spoke Monday, Trump announced that he would be discharged from the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center later that day. "I was glad to see the president speaking and recording videos over the weekend," Biden said. "And now that he's busy tweeting campaign messages, I would ask him to do this: Listen to the scientists. Support masks. Support a mask mandate nationwide. Require masks in every federal building and facility." Biden also noted that in the 72 hours since Trump checked into Walter Reed on Friday, "more than 100,000 people have been diagnosed with Covid." Criticism of the president's response to the coronavirus pandemic has been a central theme of Biden's campaign, and polls show that voters overwhelmingly believe that the Trump administration and Trump personally have failed to take the virus seriously or to mobilize sufficient resources and a strategy to fight it. Trump's own positive diagnosis last week effectively makes Biden's argument for him, as does the ongoing outbreak of coronavirus within the highest ranks of the White House and the Republican party. Following his Little Havana stop, Biden was scheduled to attend a live NBC town hall event in Miami moderated by "Nightly News" anchor Lester Holt. The town hall begins at 8 p.m. ET. Talking turkey and trick-or-treating will not be the same this year thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, a new poll suggests. The Campaign Research survey for the Star found most Ontarians favour small Thanksgiving gatherings this weekend and oppose the customary Halloween festivities on Oct. 31. One third of those polled 33 per cent said only the people residing in a single household should celebrate Thanksgiving together. Almost half 48 per cent said fewer than 10 people should gather for the traditional turkey dinner. Ten per cent said Ontarians should be allowed to do whatever they want on the annual holiday while six per cent said between 10 and 25 people should be permitted to get together under one roof and three per cent had no opinion. There is a lot of noise out there, but the research suggests people are accepting what they have to do and accepting their own personal responsibility, Campaign Research principal Nick Kouvalis said Sunday. Campaign Research polled 1,017 people across Ontario last Wednesday through Friday using Maru/Blues online panel. It is an opt-in poll, but for comparison purposes, a random sample of this size would have a margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points, 19 times out of 20. The firm found 60 per cent were opposed to letting children canvas for candy on Halloween due to the risks of COVID-19. Only 33 per cent favoured pandemic trick-or-treating and eight per cent had no opinion. While Premier Doug Ford recommended small gatherings for Thanksgiving and has warned a customary Halloween may not be possible, the Ontario government is not restricting the two October celebrations. Really, what it comes down to is ... use your best judgment. Ive got a lot of calls, Should I go see my 80-year-old mother for Thanksgiving? You have to use common sense, and that really comes down to your family members, Ford said Monday. Do we want you to tighten the circle? One hundred per cent we want you to tighten it. Do we want you to stick within the same group that youre always around, be it family members? Absolutely, he said. Health Minister Christine Elliott said with Thanksgiving coming up next weekend ... if you have any very vulnerable family members, people over the age of 70 or people that may have pre-existing conditions, you may not want to get together with them to protect their health and safety. At city hall, Dr. Eileen de Villa, Torontos medical officer of health, went further. Please do not hold a big Thanksgiving dinner. Please limit your Thanksgiving dinner to the people you live with. If you live alone, your safest option is to join with others virtually, said de Villa. Kouvalis pointed out that leaving aside government orders and recommendations from health officials, people are already telling us what theyre going to do. The research suggests the public doesnt need the government to tell it what to do, said the pollster, who has worked with Conservative and Liberal candidates across Canada and managed the winning Toronto mayoral campaigns of Rob Ford and John Tory. While there is a significant portion of the public that appears to want additional restrictions, they dont need to be told. Some two-thirds of respondents 67 per cent agreed with the provincial governments three-stage plan to reopen the economy with 30 per cent opposed and the rest unsure. But with COVID-19 infections again on the rise, 62 per cent said they favoured a return to a modified Stage 2 where indoor restaurants and bars would be closed but schools would remain open. About one-third 31 per cent opposed that and seven per cent had no opinion. When Campaign Research asked about returning to Stage 2 with schools also being closed, support dropped to 53 per cent. More than one-third 37 per cent opposed that and nine per cent werent sure. Kouvalis noted Ontarians appear to be wrestling with how things should proceed. Campaign Research bored down and asked what is closer to Ontarians view today, with 39 per cent saying the province should remain in Stage 3 and 42 per cent wanting a more restrictive Stage 2 with restaurants, bars, gyms, banquet halls and schools closed for all indoor activity. Thats four out of 10 wanting things as they are and four out of 10 wanting to go back, he said, adding 11 per cent wanted to go back to Stage 1 with government stay home orders and nine per cent werent sure. This is where the public is at. Theres a real split. Ontarians are also divided as to what the public health threshold should be for returning to Stage 2 as average new infections hover at around 600 a day. About a quarter 26 per cent said the bar should be 500 to 600 new cases daily for a week while nine per cent said it should be 600 to 700 new cases and nine per cent said it should be 700 to 800. Three per cent said 800 to 900, four per cent said 900 to 1,000, and four per cent said more than 1,000. But one third 33 per cent said the number of cases doesnt matter as long as there are hospital beds available for those who have severe symptoms and need medical attention. Twelve per cent werent sure. One issue that did not appear to be contentious was the wearing of masks to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Fully 87 per cent agreed with the current provincial edict making it mandatory to wear a mask indoors in public places, such as school and shops, and on transit. Only 11 per cent were opposed with two per cent unsure. Even outdoor mask-wearing was acceptable with 83 per cent favouring that while 15 per cent were opposed and two per cent had no opinion. With files from David Rider Read more about: After sparking massive outrage among Indian startup founders and developers, Google has pushed its timeline for implementation of the Play Store billing policy to March 31, 2022, from 2021. Industry sources pointed out that while the postponement might have provided more room for deliberations between startups and Google, it hasn't resolved the problem yet. What this has done is given scope for reconciliation between industry players and Google. Eventually, Google might give some leeway to apps to use their own arrangements with payment gateways but that is yet to be seen, said a top startup executive on the condition of anonymity. Sources also have indicated that large Indian tech companies have formed a group and have reached out to the government for intervention in this matter. But what is the issue here anyway? The issue revolves around Google extracting a hefty charge for its app store services and mandating all payments to be routed through Google billing. The objection that is being raised by founders is that Google being the dominant operating service provider in India, it is exploiting its situation by mandating something like this. Since Google claims it is an open system, it should encourage other payment services to work in this space too. Okay, so is this exploitation of market position? That's the big question. Is it exploitation of the market position at all or is it distribution fee charged by a platform? There is no clear answer yet. One school of thought believes that Google is offering a platform, where consumers are downloading apps because they trust Google. Now, if Google wants to charge apps for that, then it is within its rights to do so. After all, brands which open shops in a mall pay a charge to the mall owner as well. The other school of thought believes that Google which showcases Android as an open system where any one can participate, at the end of the day is behaving like an Apple which also has extremely restrictive policies on in-app payments, publishing of apps and others. Still a little confused? But what does Google billing cover anyway? In simple terms, the mandate covers digitally sourced and digitally consumed products and services. This would include fitness subscriptions, in-app payments for games, online education and similar services. It does not cover physical goods sold on Amazon or Flipkart or other e-commerce products. Google says any paid apps on the Store will have to use Google Billing and any subsequent purchases within the app will also have to be processed through Google Billing. So does this mean Netflix subscriptions, Gaana membership payments, everything will now be done through Google Pay? Yes, if the transactions are done within the app. Now if the transactions are done on the home website or through any other third-party app store or platform, Google does not make any restrictions in that regard. But this also creates a friction in the experience. For instance, if the subscription needs renewal, then the customer will have to jump to the website, log in separately and make a transaction. The entire experience becomes broken. So overall this move is bad for the ecosystem? It's difficult to say whether it is bad or good. There are multiple anti-trust cases underway worldwide around app store policies and the role an app store plays in the overall app ecosystem of the world. Given so much is happening digitally in India these discussions are assuming centre-stage now. Mandar Kagade, a fintech consultant, pointed out that what Google is asking for is a distribution fee, it is not a charge on payments. If any company does not want to pay the fees, they can easily migrate to other app stores or direct users to download the app from their own websites. Companies like Paytm and others can nudge the users to alternate distribution points where they would have integrated with their own PG of choice, he added. But yes, the problem remains. Given that India is 95% an Android market, Google Play Store continues to be the platform of choice for consumers looking to download an app. Got it! Then what is the entire thing around an Atmanirbhar app store? This is not directly related to the pricing issue, but is an extension of this debate. Indian startup founders have formed a group and they say that Google controls too many aspects of their business, from mandating payments to deciding gamification features. An American company has too much say on how the Indian startup ecosystem will function, they say. This group of startups led by Paytm, BharatMatrimony, Dream11 and few others are understood to have made a presentation to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology for the need for India to have its own app store and formulate its own rules. Something similar happens in China, where there is no Google Play Store. There are multiple app stores each with their own publishing and payment rules. Even large phone manufacturers like Xiaomi have their own app stores. Industry experts feel involving the government in what should ideally be business decisions might not be the right thing to do. Afterall in a free market, businesses should be able to decide pricing and other concerns through dialogue. Anunt de selectare a participantilor si participantelor la cel de-al doilea curs de instruire din cadrul Programului educational pentru dezvoltarea competentelor lucratorilor de tineret Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Russia on Monday recorded a rise in coronavirus cases close to the maximum level in May but it has stopped short of reimposing strict lockdown measures. With the fourth-highest number of cases in the global pandemic, Russia introduced harsh measures during the first outbreak of the virus including the closure of borders from March while Muscovites had to apply for electronic passes to travel round the city. On Monday, the government confirmed 10,888 new cases, approaching the May 11 highest recorded level of 11,656. Of these, 3,537 were in the capital, the worst-hit city by far, where Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said Sunday there are "many seriously ill". The second-largest city of Saint Petersburg, which has a population of around 5 million people, reported 407 new cases. On Monday afternoon, a number of ambulances were seen queueing outside a hospital in central Saint Petersburg, Russia's second worst-hit city, with an influx of patients. Deputy Prime Minister Tatiana Golikova said Friday that a sharp upturn in cases since late September was "serious" but added that "we expected this," the TASS state news agency reported. She cited people returning to workplaces and the rise in flu and pneumonia cases generally expected in autumn and winter. In Moscow, the mayor has introduced some measures to slow the infection rate, telling those over 65 to stay at home and requiring companies to have at least 30 percent of staff working from home from Monday. These measures fall far short of the tight lockdown that reached its height in Moscow in March. The capital saw its highest daily level of new cases in May, at 6,703, much higher than the current figure. "I imagine a full self-isolation regime won't be reintroduced in Russia," senator Valery Ryazansky told the RIA Novosti state news agency. However he warned that a full border closure was possible. "Of course we can close the Russia border. We are coming to this," he said. Fears over the impact of the virus, among other factors, have hit the ruble, which last month slumped to its lowest level against the euro since 2016. Russia has recorded 21,475 virus deaths. It approved a vaccine called Sputnik V in August, claiming a world first, although large-scale clinical trials are continuing. Another Russian vaccine is also undergoing trials. Explore further Follow the latest news on the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak 2020 AFP In fresh trouble for senior Congress leader DK Shivakumar, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday (October 5) raided the premises of Karnataka Congress chief in connection with the alleged corruption case against him. The searches are being conducted today at 14 locations including 9 in Karnataka, 4 in Delhi and one in Mumbai. Sources told Zee Media that the CBI raided multiple places in Karnataka, Mumbai and some other parts of the country in connection with this case. The CBI raids took place weeks after the BJP-led government in Karnataka allowed the CBI to probe the corruption charges against Shivakumar. Live TV Reacting to CBI's raids, senior Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala lashed out at the Karnataka government and called CBI a puppet. The insidious game of intimidation and machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding DK Shivakumar wont deter us, Surjewala said. The insidious game of intimidation & machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding @DKShivakumar wont deter us. CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt. But, Raid Raj is their only Machiavellian Move ! 1/2 Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) October 5, 2020 CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt. But, Raid Raj is their only Machiavellian Move, he added. Gardai in Donegal are investigating an assault on a man that occurred in County Donegal yesterday. A male, aged in his 30s, was assaulted by three males at a house in Convoy, County Donegal, at approximately 11.45am yesterday morning. The male was then forced into a Grey Mercedes Benz C Series (Registration plate: 09 MH 17020) which subsequently drove away from the scene. Garda units from Letterkenny then commenced a search of the North-Western Region for this vehicle. They were assisted by PSNI officers following reports the car may have crossed the border into the North. Gardai say that approximately 5.30pm, the assaulted male was located in Convoy, County Donegal, and taken to Letterkenny University Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The offending vehicle was located by the PSNI outside a residence in Castlederg, County Tyrone, and three males and two females were subsequently arrested yesterday evening. An incident room has been set up at Letterkenny Garda Station and Gardai say a full investigation into this incident is now underway. Gardai are appealing for any witnesses to the initial assault incident at Oak Park, Convoy, County Donegal, to come forward. They are also appealing for any persons that may have observed the grey Mercedes Benz C Series (09 MH 17020) to contact them. Anyone with any information on either of these incidents has been asked to contact Letterkenny Garda Station on 074 916 7100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station. Physical decline is likely to be a major feature of the next few years of American politics, at least. The current line of succession, after Trump and Vice President Mike Pence, features Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who is 80, and the Senate president pro tempore, Charles Grassley, 87, who also runs the Senate Finance Committee. Pelosis two most powerful deputies in the House, James Clyburn and Steny Hoyer, are both 80 or older. Over in the Senate, the chairman of the Armed Services Committee is 85 and coasting to reelection. The chairman of the Appropriations Committee is 86. Joe Biden, who turns 78 next month, is nearly a year younger than the Senate majority leader, Mitch McConnell, who is also seeking reelection in November. Ireland will face tighter restrictions in a bid to curb the spread of Covid-19. The country will move to level three of the Governments plan to live with Covid-19. The switch will last for three weeks. Taoiseach Micheal Martin said there will also be measures to increase compliance on the new restrictions which come into effect at midnight on Tuesday. The decision comes after the Government rejected advice from public health officials to introduce the highest level of measure. From midnight tomorrow, all parts of the country will move to #Level3 restrictions. Together, we can beat #COVID19. Read more here: https://t.co/AhYyKFIcUE pic.twitter.com/bdJ5mZDCIW Fine Gael (@FineGael) October 5, 2020 Speaking at Government Buildings in Dublin, Mr Martin defended the Governments decision not to implement recommendations from the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet). He said the potential implications of moving to a lockdown are severe and very different from those the country faced earlier this year. It could involve the loss of hundreds of thousands of jobs with these concentrated in families and communities, which are already experiencing difficulties, Mr Martin warned. This is not about public health and businesses competing against each other, its about protecting lives and livelihoods. We cant do one without the other. I believe that we all understand what we have to do and I have confidence that we can have the impact this requires and we need to do it now. If we all act now, we can stop the need to go further with introducing level four and five restrictions. I have no doubt that we can and will get through this. He said that while there is evidence people are following guidelines, there are others who are taking a more lax attitude. Whether it is about inviting others to our homes, or how we behave in public settings, the virus is spreading because people are allowing it to spread, Mr Martin continued. The government has been informed by NPHET that recent trends and most parts of the country are a major concern. It is vital that we do everything in our power now to arrest the current trajectory nationally and very substantially suppress the virus back down to a low level of transmission in advance of the winter months Dr Tony Holohan If we do not alter these trends there will be a serious impact, there is no doubt whatsoever about this. We must respond and the challenge is to be as effective and proportionate as possible. Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly said the Governments relationship with Nphet is absolutely fine. Given the times we live in it should be expected that there would be robust debate and disagreements, he told a press conference on Monday night. No country has got this perfectly right, no one has a monopoly on wisdom when it comes to this virus. I think it is normal and healthy that there will be different views around the table. Mr Donnelly said the Government would have wanted to see a bigger difference in the underlying data before moving to level five. However, Tanaiste Leo Varadkar criticised Nphets recommendation, saying it came out of the blue. Expand Close Leo Varadkar (Julien Behal/PA) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Leo Varadkar (Julien Behal/PA) He told RTEs Claire Byrne Live that the level five recommendation had not been thought through. The decision comes following a Cabinet meeting this evening to discuss the recommendations made by chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan and NPHET. Dr Holohan warned there has been a significant and concerning deterioration in the epidemiological situation nationally. He said on Monday: It is vital that we do everything in our power now to arrest the current trajectory nationally and very substantially suppress the virus back down to a low level of transmission in advance of the winter months. Dr Ronan Glynn, deputy chief medical officer, said: Our core priorities have to be protected. We must work together to keep our non-Covid health services open, keep our children in education and protect the lives of the most vulnerable to this disease. Solidarity is now more important than ever as we work to once again suppress this virus in our communities. Sinn Feins David Cullinane claimed the public has been left very confused by the Governments position. The Government has the responsibility to explain its decisions, as NPHET has an obligation to explain theirs, he added. If ICU capacity in our public hospitals is the problem then why isnt the State proposing to nationalise 3-4 of our private hospitals to bolster our ICU capacity? A real option to consider if we want to keep the economy going while increasing ICU space. pic.twitter.com/oNvz7VCv8W The Labour Party (@labour) October 5, 2020 On Monday an additional 518 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed by the Department of Health. There were no further deaths. The Government was urged to make a dramatic intervention by buying up private hospitals to increase intensive care capacity. Labour leader Alan Kelly said the move would pay for itself by avoiding the economic fallout of a nationwide shutdown of businesses. The latest figures show there are 150 people in Irish hospitals with coronavirus, with 21 confirmed cases in intensive care units. Under the restrictions of level three, only six visitors from one household would be allowed to visit another household. The stricter measures include a ban on indoor social gatherings, a requirement for pubs and restaurants to only serve food outdoors, and a limit on travel in and out of the county for only work, education and essential purposes. UP: Elections not won on exit polls basis, results will be surprising: Kamal Nath Hathras: UP Police files 19 cases including sedition, international conspiracy India oi-Deepika S Lucknow, Oct 05: The Uttar Pradesh police on Monday filed nineteen FIRs in the alleged gang rape in Hathras that lists sedition an "international conspiracy" and promoting religious hatred among other charges. As per the initial reports, the charges listed on the FIR are sedition, conspiracy, inciting caste divides, religious discrimination, doctoring electronic evidence, a conspiracy against the state and defamation. The development comes a day after Adityanath accused the Bharatiya Janata Party's political opponents of attempting to conspire against it by "trying to lay a foundation for caste and communal riots through international funding. The chief minister made the remarks after nationwide anger and protests to demand justice for the family of the Dalit woman who died on September 29 after brutal torture and gangrape by four upper-caste Thakur men in Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh. Hathras case: Bengal's non-BJP leaders slam Uttar Pradesh MLA for his rape remark "Our opponents are conspiring against us by trying to lay a foundation for caste and communal riots through international funding," Adityanath told ANI. "For last one week, Opposition parties were keen to see riots. We need to move forward amidst all these conspiracies." "Anti-social and anti-nation elements find it difficult to accept state's development as they always wanted a riot-stricken Uttar Pradesh. So they are hatching conspiracies now," he further said. Hathras Case: UP Police files 19 FIRs, ink thrown at AAP MP Sanjay Singh | Oneindia News Adityanath on Saturday announced that he is recommending a CBI probe into the Hathras case, amid a growing political storm over the death of the 19-year-old Dalit victim who was assaulted and allegedly gang-raped. He also said that his government was "determined to ensure the harshest punishment" for those guilty in the entire incident. The opposition parties have targeted the Adityanath government over the incident and the handling of the case. The victim, who was assaulted and allegedly gang-raped on September 14, died of her grievous injuries in the early hours of Tuesday in a Delhi hospital and was cremated in the dead of night near her home on Wednesday, with her family alleging that they were hurried into carrying out her last rites by local police. Command Chief Master Sergeant Maureen Dooley has built a sterling reputation for herself during 33 years of service in the Air Force and Air National Guard. But after over three decades and a plethora of life-changing experiences, the Rome, Georgia, resident is hanging up her uniform for the very last time. Command Chief Master Sgt. Maureen Dooley (DVIDSHUB) Dooley was honored at a formal retirement ceremony on Sept. 18 at the New York National Guard headquarters in Latham. At the ceremony, she was presented with the Legion of Merit, plus gifts from her appreciate colleagues for the forthcoming retirement. Dooley gave eight years of service to the active Air Force and 25 years to the 5,600-member-strong New York Air National Guard, according to a press release by Military and Naval Affairs News. For the retiring command chief, she leaves more than just a job behind her. Major General Dawn Deskins, deputy director of the Air National Guard (L), presents Dooley with her retirement certificate in Latham, New York, on Sept. 18, 2020 (William Albrecht/New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs) There is not a better profession than the profession of arms, and not a greater group of people I would like to face those challenges with, she shared at the Sept. 18 ceremony, according to Defence Visual Information and Distribution Service (DVIDS). When you are doing a job that you love so much and you are doing it with your heart and soul, it is not a job. Since February 2018, Dooley was the New York Air National Guards senior enlisted Airman, reporting directly to Air Force Major General Timothy LaBarge. She served as his advisor on numerous military issues. Dooley receives her retirement flag from Senior Master Sgt. Tom Whiteman on Sept. 18, 2020. (William Albrecht/New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs) Air Force Major General Dawn Deskins, the Guards deputy director, officiated at Dooleys retirement ceremony. She warmly praised her colleague for her energy and commitment to the mission, adding, If we did not have COVID, this room would be filled to the rafters with people who wanted to be here. Dooley, originally of Danielson, Connecticut, studied for a degree in Space Technology from the Community College of Air Force before joining the Force in 1979. She served as an aircraft maintenance specialist, working on F-4Es, F-15s, and T-33 training aircraft for eight years before leaving the active Air Force in 1987. After a break, she joined the Air National Guard in December 1995, according to a press release. Dooley fields questions during the 2019 NYANG First Sergeant Symposium at Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, New York, on May 21, 2019 (Master Sgt. Lee C. Guagenti/U.S. National Guard) Dooley became part of a subset of the North American Aerospace Defense Command, where her responsibilities included identifying and tracking aircraft flying over the United States and Canada with a focus upon national safety. Notably, Dooley played a crucial role during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on New York City. The now-retired command chief later served in weapons direction, air surveillance, mission crew control, and non-commissioned officer positions at the Eastern Air Defense Sector (EADS) before becoming the chief enlisted manager of the 224th Support Squadron in 2014. Air Force Command Chief Master Sgt. Richard King presents a plaque to Dooley as she leaves EADS to become the Command Chief Master Sgt. of the New York Air National Guard on Feb. 2, 2018. (Timothy Jones/DVIDSHUB) Dooleys most recent decoration, the Legion of Merit, is the cherry on the cake of a series of coveted accolades. Among others, Dooley has also received the Meritorious Service Medal, says DVIDS, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Combat Readiness Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. The New York Army National Guards Command Sergeant Major CSM David Piwowarski (L), Command Chief Master Sergeant CMSgt. Amy R. Giaquinto (Lcenter), and New York Adjutant General MG Anthony German (R) pose with Dooley at a Change of Responsibility ceremony held at the Division of Military and Naval Affairs on Feb. 26, 2018 (William Albrecht/DVIDSHUB) The retiring command chief will be succeeded by Command Chief Master Sergeant Denny L. Richardson, the former senior enlisted Airman in the 109th Airlift Wing at Stratton Air National Guard Base in Scotia, a press release states. We would love to hear your stories! You can share them with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.nyc President Trumps decision to drive by well-wishers outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Sunday was widely criticized by medical experts as irresponsible for unnecessarily exposing Secret Service agents inside the vehicle to the virus. By taking a joy ride outside Walter Reed the president is placing his Secret Service detail at grave risk, tweeted Dr. Jonathan Reiner, professor of medicine and surgery at George Washington University. This is the height of irresponsibility. Yet many far-right commenters called it something else: a miracle. They said it was evidence that the president was overcoming his illness from the coronavirus. The Gateway Pundit, a website notorious for regularly spreading misinformation and falsehoods, published an article calling Mr. Trumps drive-by to greet fans a miracle in Maryland. Italian teenager Jannik Sinner bludgeoned his way past sixth seed Alexander Zverev on Sunday to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final and a French Open rendez-vous with the 12-time champion Rafael Nadal. Sinner, 19, dispatched his Monte Carlo practice partner 6-3, 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 in just over three hours to advance. "It was tough playing against him as we know each other but I am pleased with my performance," he said. Sinner, the world number 75, beat the 11th seed David Goffin in the opening round in Paris in straight sets before disposing of Benjamin Bonzi and Frederico Coria in the same way in the second and third rounds respectively. Calm After losing his first set of the tournament on Sunday on Court Suzanne Lenglen, he showed remarkable sang froid to continue his strategy of blistering ground strokes that forced an equally powerful Zverev onto the back foot. "It's the best of five sets," said Sinner. "If you lose one set you just try and keep going. Even in the third set I knew I was still playing well. "I tried to be focused in the first service game in the fourth set, which I did, and then it went quite well." Indeed. After holding his opening service game, he claimed Zverev's to go 2-0 up. A game lasting 11 minutes pushed him 3-0 ahead and he kept his nose in front to become the first man since Nadal in 2005 to progress to the last eight in their first appearance at Roland Garros. Nadal reached the quarters for the 14th time with a 6-1, 6-1, 6-3 defeat of 20-year-old Sebastian Korda. "I'm very happy with a good match against a good player," said Nadal before predicting a bright future on the senior circuit for the American, who despite being the son of former world number one Petr Korda, admitted it was Nadal who inspired him to become a player. "It's an honour for me," said Nadal. "All of our generation of players try to be passionate and to try our best to inspire the young generation." Stacker has gathered information from the Federal Election Commission to provide a comprehensive list of the top 50 zip codes where President Trump has received the most campaign donations over the past two years. NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- American Jewish Committee (AJC) mourns the passing of Ambassador Richard Schifter. He was 97 years old. Schifter, an attorney-turned-diplomat appointed to senior positions in both Republican and Democratic administrations over a 20-year span, was an AJC leader from 1972 onward, serving on the organization's Board of Governors and, beginning in 2002, chairing AJC's International Relations Commission. He was also a longtime benefactor of AJC Project Interchange. "With his vast experience in international affairs and as an advisor to presidents, Ambassador Schifter gave a boost to AJC's diplomatic efforts, especially in matters related to the United Nations," said AJC CEO David Harris. "In the State Department, in the White House, and at the UN, Dick was a passionate advocate for American leadership, for the security and well-being of Israel, for Soviet Jews seeking freedom, and for the defense of human rights." Schifter fled Vienna to the United States at the age of 15, after the Nazis took over Austria. He later learned that his entire family was murdered by the Nazis. He joined the U.S. army in 1943, fought the Nazis, served in the occupation forces after the war, and, after his discharge in 1948, attended Yale Law School. "Richard Schifter's nearly century-long life is an amazing and remarkable story of resilience and perseverance in the face of tragedy and displacement," said Harris. "In some ways, it is a quintessential tale of a refugee who arrives in the United States, creates a new life from a humble start, and becomes a proud and accomplished American." Under Presidents Reagan and George H.W. Bush, Schifter served as Assistant Secretary of State for Human Rights and Humanitarian Affairs, U.S. Representative to the Geneva-based UN Human Rights Commission, and as Deputy U.S. Representative to the UN Security Council. Under President Clinton he served as Special Assistant to the President on the staff of the National Security Council and as Special Advisor to the Secretary of State. He received the Secretary of State's Distinguished Service Award, Austria's Golden Honor Insignia with Star, and the Order of Commander of Romania's Star. SOURCE American Jewish Committee Related Links http://www.ajc.org Here's a new job opening at the courthouse dedicated to reviewing community complaints and/or scanning social media for the latest local politically charged rant. Checkit: The Jackson County Prosecutor is creating a new position in her office to investigate police use of force.Monday morning, the county's Anti-Crime Committee approved a request for funding.Prosecutor Jean Peters-Baker says since her office launched a web page in June, inviting people to report police officer misconduct and excessive use BRIDGEPORT The collapse of the city police departments Youth Bureau and retirements within the force have caused a backlog in the investigation of sexual assault cases. Sources in the Bridgeport Police Department said as many as two dozen cases have languished in various stages of investigation for as long as five years. Bridgeport States Attorney Joseph Corradino recently appointed two prosecutors to work with the police department to get the cases ready for prosecution. However, sources said because of the time lapse, some of the cases are already beyond the statute of limitations. Capt. Brian Fitzgerald of the Detective Bureau has been working diligently to address the situation he inherited when the Youth Bureau was dissolved, Corradino said. Ive assigned two prosecutors and an inspector to provide whatever assistance he needs, given the existence of 17 vacancies in the Detective Bureau. I believe progress is being made on the open cases. The bureau has a current staff of 37. Police wont say how many cases are outstanding or for how long. We are working in conjunction with prosecutors and inspectors from the States Attorneys office in Bridgeport to streamline the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases, said Fitzgerald, who heads the Detective Bureau. This partnership will help Bridgeport Police with resources to investigate these crimes while we await the promotion of new detectives to fill vacancies in the Special Victims Unit. The Special Victims Unit was established in 2018 when then-Police Chief Armando Perez dissolved the Youth Bureau after allegations that case files were being stuffed in drawers and forgotten after detectives were transferred to other areas of the department. READ MORE: Bridgeport Police Youth Bureau delayed arrests in sex cases for years The Bridgeport Police Department has been undergoing restructuring and reorganization of divisions, Police Department Spokesman Scott Appleby told Hearst Connecticut Media earlier this year. At the time, some detectives in the former Youth Bureau were reassigned to other entities within the Detective Bureau, he said. As part of the reorganization, Appleby said the Special Victims Unit was designated to investigate all sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse allegations. He said officers in this division undergo special training. Detectives and supervisors of the Special Victims Unit uncovered several cases dating back to 2013 that were a part of the original Youth Bureau files, Appleby confirmed. These cases were reviewed, and when necessary re-investigated, and evidence was sent to the state laboratory when appropriate. If probable cause existed to charge, a warrant was applied for. Previously, Perez had appointed Sgt. Joseph Hernandez, who had no prior experience in investigating cases having come from a patrol position, to lead the Youth Bureau. Hernandez retired around the time the Youth Bureau was disbanded.The last straw for the Youth Bureau, according to law enforcement sources, was the two years it took to investigate the sexual assault of an 8-year-old girl. Police acknowledged that although they began the sexual assault investigation in April 2015, Youth Bureau detectives didnt send the rape kit to the state lab for DNA processing until April 2017 when the suspect, 31-year-old Derrick Siberon, was being investigated for the death of his 10-month-old son. The state police lab identified Siberons DNA in the rape kit taken from the girl. As part of a plea deal, Siberon was sentenced to two concurrent 15-year sentences followed by 20 years of probation. Police also acknowledged in court documents that a 2015 sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl was not fully investigated for two years because the original investigator was transferred out of the Youth Bureau and not replaced. But sources said while the Special Victims Unit looked good on paper, it failed to get off the ground. Because of retirements in the police department there are only two detectives assigned to handle sexual assault cases both new ones and the many old cases transferred from the Youth Bureau, the sources said. New York, Oct 5 : US President Donald Trump's spokesperson Kayleigh McEnany on Monday became the latest person in his inner circle to test positive for Covid-19. McEnany tweeted that she tested positive in the morning while showing no symptoms but had been negative in the earlier tests conducted since Thursday when Trump's Counsellor Hope Hicks had been diagnosed with coronavirus. Several people close to Trump have been diagnosed with Covid-19, including his campaign manager Bill Stepien, Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel, adviser Kellyanne Conway and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. Trump's wife Melania has also tested positive for the virus. Attorney General William Barr has announced that he is self-quarantining because of possible exposure to coronavirus despite test reports returning negative. Three Senators have also tested positive and they include two on the Senate Judiciary Committee which must move the process for nominating Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. Their infection may derail the confirmation before the elections, which Trump wants. The convening of the Senate has been postponed to October 19, leaving just 14 days before the elections. New Jersey State is conducting contact tracing for the people who attended a fundraiser that Trump attended in the state on Thursday before his infection was confirmed, Governor Phil Murphy said, calling Trump 'irresponsible'. McEnany said that she did not know about Hicks's infection when she held a briefing on Thursday and that no media people have been listed as close contacts by the White House Medical Unit. (Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in and followed on Twitter at @arulouis) Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) The call came at 9:32 this morning, and my cell phone showed the name Chris Christie. The former governor was calling from his bed at Morristown Medical Center, on Day 3 of his COVID-19 treatment. The mega-hit Game of Thrones might have come to an end, but for years to come, the expansive fantasy series will remain a talking point. David Benioff and DB Showrunners Through exposing the deceptive methods they used to persuade HBO to adapt the best-selling books, Weiss turned heads once again. George R.R. Martin's grand-scale fantasy series was brought to a contentious end last year by the eighth and final Game of Thrones season. Many viewers and analysts were frustrated with showrunners David Benioff and DB, despite years of build-up. In the later installments, Weiss' fast and clumsy attempts. The small screen could never be graced again by legendary characters, including Jon Snow (played by Kit Harington) and Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke). However, some surprising new knowledge from Benioff and Weiss has shown the heroes and villains of Game of Thrones' Westeros could never have the chance to have their live-action equivalents in the first place. It was never going to be an easy feat to adapt Martin's vast and still unfinished sequence of novels. Yet, Thrones' popularity revealed that TV audiences were hungry for an adult drama set in a fantasy world in the Lord of the Rings format. Lies? What are those? Unfortunately, Game of Thrones' bosses revealed that HBO required a lot of pressure from the US TV network to provide the go-ahead to what must have been a rather dangerous venture at the time. The writers acknowledged that they had to change the facts when describing Martin's daunting tomes' subject matter, outlining the selling phase in the latest book, Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon. "The lie we told was that the show was 'contained' and it was about the characters," David Benioff revealed. Although the machinations and interpersonal struggles of the numerous families of the Seven Kingdoms make up the majority of the show, Thrones soon became a massive undertaking as later seasons discussed the large-budget set pieces and the intimidating roster of diverse characters. Not to mention producers used state-of-the-art visual effects in the Game of Thrones to carry the famous places and amazing monsters of Westeros to existence. Fortunately, the cast and crew managed seamlessly to carry off the look of Martin's dream universe. Though, it's no wonder that HBO's execs have been intimidated by the series' 1000 page novels and too costly development demands. Besides, executives were also more nervous that the show will appear on Rome's coattails, an infamously costly and short-lived historical drama. They used some quick thinking to trick the network into assuming that adapting Game of Thrones would be both easy and profitable, Benioff and Weiss announced. Weiss continued: "We realized that most of the decision-makers were not going to read 4,000 pages [of Martin's books] to get to the [major battles] and the dragons getting bigger." When it was too late, we were betting on them not finding out. Shall we trust the producers? Since the TV series is a mega success, Martin's long series scared off even the most significant readers inside Thrones' fandom. Not only does each book run up to 700 words, but to this day, fans are also waiting for the imminent sixth novel, The Winds of Winter. The withdrawal of the showrunner from the books' expected storyline has been recognized as one of the key reasons leading to the more recent seasons' dissatisfaction. Martin's sequence's final episodes would probably carry the fantasy adventure to a more satisfactory end after last year's divisive finale. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kaduna State Chapter, has decried the rise in drug abuse and addiction among youths in the state. The State CAN Chairman, John Hayab, said on Monday during a victory praise and worship march in Kafanchan, Jemaa Local Government Area, that the menace of drug abuse was fast eating deep into the fabric of the society. Mr Hayab said that swift and decisive action must be taken to arrest the ugly trend. CAN in Kaduna State is saying no to drug addiction and thats why we came to Kafanchan. We are speaking to pastors, women and youths if theres anything they can do for us to overcome this because if you are in your senses, when an enemy strikes, you will know how to react. But when you are drunk and out of your mind, an enemy can even destroy you and you can do nothing; you will not be useful to the society neither can you help yourself, he added. According to him, people who take drugs in order to summon courage to fight their enemies often turn on their families and friends when such enemies are long gone. We must preach against drugs in our churches, in our community meetings and everywhere. That is why I am challenging all pastors today; If you dont speak against drugs, the problem will only get worse. If one gets angry and take drugs before fighting; once there is no enemy, the next thing the addicted person does is to turn against his family and friends, he noted. He said CAN is looking towards discouraging women from selling local alcoholic drink known as Burkutu, by training them on financial literacy and giving them seed capital to start viable small businesses. Even the sales of alcohol, we want to stop it, but we cannot just stop it without giving the sellers alternatives. So, we are willing to help women who sell local drinks to stop it and give them an alternative business and little capital to start the business. We want to see a better community. A community of peace, prosperity and good health because drug addiction disrupt these things entirely and that is why we want to fight it, he added. READ ALSO: He appealed to government at all levels to support agencies working to rehabilitate drug addicts. If there is anything we need to do now is to work together. Government must support agencies working to help rehabilitate drug addicts, Mr Hayab said. The CAN Chairman said the victory march was organized to give thanks to God for preserving the lives of the people of Southern Kaduna. He also expressed appreciation to God for the relative peace being enjoyed in the region following months of attacks. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the highlight of the event was the rendition of praise and worship songs and prayers for Southern Kaduna as well as a victory March. (NAN) CLEVELAND, Ohio The White House said Friday that President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump exhibited mild symptoms after testing positive for the coronavirus, forcing them to quarantine less than five weeks before Election Day. The White House did not specify the symptoms President Trump is exhibiting, but the New York Times said a source described them as coldlike. Some of the most common coronavirus symptoms include a fever and a dry cough, but the most severe cases can involve complications including blood clots or respiratory failure, said Dr. Claudia Hoyen, the director of pediatric infection control and pediatric innovation at University Hospitals' Rainbow Babies & Childrens Hospital. There really isnt any organ system that isnt affected by this, Hoyen said. There are a lot of things to watch for. While the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says four out of every five coronavirus infections are mild, the fact Trump is 74 years old puts him at greater risk for developing serious symptoms. Patients between the ages of 65 and 74 are five times more likely to develop severe symptoms than those between 18 and 29, according to the CDC. People over the age of 65 account for roughly three-quarters of the more than 205,000 coronavirus deaths in the U.S., according to CDC statistics. Its unclear why the disease affects older people more than younger people, Hoyen said. Some diseases, including the flu, tend to affect the oldest and youngest populations because their immune systems are not as strong as those in between. But the does not affect children the way it does the elderly. Theres just so much unknown right now, Hoyen said. Were going to learn from this disease, because it does so many things that are not typical. Underlying conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or chronic respiratory disease also put a person at a significantly higher risk for severe COVID-19 illness or death, experts say. The state of Trumps campaign is in flux, mainly because its difficult to predict how a coronavirus infection will progress. Heres a range of possible outcomes after someone tests positive for COVID-19: Asymptomatic The mildest coronavirus cases involve no symptoms at all. Its unclear what percentage of coronavirus infections are asymptomatic because someone might not get tested if theyre not displaying any signs of the disease. Research is mixed on how often asymptomatic carriers spread the virus. While the World Health Organization has said asymptomatic spread is rare, one study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found most transmission occurs in the earliest stages of the disease, sometimes before someone is experiencing symptoms. Another study out of South Korea, also published in the JAMA Internal Medicine, found asymptomatic carriers have just as much of a viral load in their throats, lungs and noses as those who have symptoms. Mild symptoms According to the CDC, roughly 81% of coronavirus infections involve mild or moderate symptoms, all the way up to mild pneumonia. Approximately 14% involve severe symptoms such as labored breathing, and 5% involve critical symptoms like respiratory failure. Its not insignificant in terms of the number of people who are affected, how many can end up in the hospital, Hoyen cautioned. Trump is currently exhibiting mild coronavirus symptoms, which often include a fever and a dry cough. But coronavirus patients also show a range of other symptoms including: Shortness of breath Fatigue Muscle or body aches Headache Loss of taste or smell Sore throat Congestion or runny nose Nausea or vomiting Diarrhea Symptoms may appear two to 14 days after someone is exposed to the virus, with a median onset of four or five days, according to the CDC. Experts advise quarantining at home if someone is experiencing only mild symptoms unless the disease worsens. Most patients with mild cases of COVID-19 should start to feel better within two weeks, according to doctors from Johns Hopkins Medicine. Severe symptoms Patients quarantining at home need to monitor their symptoms in case they need to seek emergency medical care. Those warning signs could include labored breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, an inability to stay awake, new confusion or blue lips, according to The Mayo Clinic. People should also seek medical care if theyre experiencing dehydration caused by vomiting or diarrhea, a persistent fever lasting more than three or four days or any symptoms of a stroke, Hoyen said. The disease typically progresses to severe symptoms like labored breathing five to eight days after the initial onset of symptoms, according to the CDC. Critical condition The most severe COVID-19 infections require treatment in an ICU. Many of those patients may require a ventilator to help them breathe. One of the most severe complications of COVID-19 is a condition called acute respiratory distress syndrome, or ARDS. The respiratory failure carries a high mortality rate: Studies estimate that roughly one-third of patients will die after developing ARDS. Coronavirus patients who develop ARDS typically do so eight to 12 days after they first experience symptoms, according to the CDC. There is no treatment for ARDS, so doctors typically manage the condition until it runs its course, doctors previously told cleveland.com. For 50-year-old fisherman Jason Gillespie, it was a rare first to have caught an albino all-white shark one day. He was deep-sea fishing near the Isle Of Wight on Tuesday along with some friends when he made the marvellous catch, claims reports. Any Jaws references will seem almost forced at this point but this is an incredible catch truly. The three-foot-long all-white tope shark is said to be leucistic which means its skin is devoid of any pigment. Gillespie family/SWNS via Daily Mail "I've been fishing for 30 years and I've never seen one like that. apparently it's a condition where the pigment dies out of the skin colour. It's similar to an albino, but they have red eyes generally," Gillespie, who hails from Waterlooville, Hampshire, told Daily Mail in an interview. "I caught it on Tuesday, off the Isle of Wight - what're the chances? I have no idea. It's the fish of a lifetime, one in a million. I've certainly never seen one, it's been on Facebook since Tuesday and no one else has come forward and said they have caught one," he went on to explain. Also read: An Albino Baby Kangaroo Is Missing From A Zoo In Germany, Authorities Feel It May Be Stolen Gillespie family/SWNS via Daily Mail Gillespie further added that such sharks often struggle to survive since they can't camouflage as effectively and are easily spotted by predators. Not to mention the fact that they're an endangered species, so what Gillespie did is appreciated. 'With tope, they are a protected species, so we unhook them in the water, but the minute we saw this one I shouted to my mate to grab the net and knew I needed to get some photos of it so we pulled her on board and took some pictures. We released her as quick as possible, she was only on the boat for less than a minute,' he said. "I was so intrigued by the shark its so unique and I just wanted to share the photographs." Also read: Extremely Rare, 'Pink' Albino Elephant Calf Discovered In South Africa Gillespie family/SWNS via Daily Mail Perhaps the only other such shark specimen talked about in recent literature is the "extremely rare" albino shark discovered in Auckland Museum. The rediscovery of the albino Lucifer's dogfish happened after certain specimens stored at the museum were studied again. It was in 2018 when Dr Brittany Finucci, a fisheries scientist at NIWA, was studying some specimens when this particular shark caught her eye because it didn't have any pigment, reports stuff.co.nz. Finucci went on to explain that while albinism is well documented in humans and other species, certain deep sea creatures like these sharks have not had that honour. Also read: Biologists Fear Rare Blue-Eyed, Ginger Fur Seal Pup May Have Been Shunned By Its Own, To Be Rescued Three more students at Martingrove Collegiate Insitute have tested positive for COVID-19, but the school remains open because Toronto Public Health has determined the infections were acquired outside the school setting. Martingrove has the most number of COVID-19 positive students in the Toronto District School Board with eight. There are cases affiliated with this school, however, our thorough investigation reveals that the infections were acquired outside the school setting. There is no evidence of transmission in the school at this time, and therefore an outbreak has not been declared, Dr. Vinita Dubey, the citys associate medical officer of health, told the Star in an email. The first five cases were linked to an event that took place in the community on Sept. 19, the school said in a letter to parents last week. Two other TDSB schools have three positive cases among students, and no other school have more than two students as of Sunday night. The news about Martingrove comes as the number of new COVID-19 cases in public schools across the province has jumped by 56 from the previous weekday, to a total of 449 in the last two weeks. In its latest data released Monday morning, the province reported 31 more students were infected for a total of 259 in the last two weeks; since school began there have been overall total of 293. The data shows there are eight more staff members for a total of 65 in the last two weeks and an overall total of 92. The latest report also shows 17 more individuals who werent identified for a total of 125 in that category and an overall total of 154. There is a lag between the daily provincial data at 10:30 a.m. and news reports about infections in schools. The provincial data on Monday is current as of 2 p.m. the previous work day so it doesnt reflect news from over the weekend. It also doesnt indicate where the place of transmission occurred. There are 335 schools with a reported case, which the province notes is almost seven per cent of the 4,828 public schools in Ontario. Three schools are currently closed, according to the Ministry of Health figures Mason Road Junior Public School in Toronto, Holy Cross Catholic School in Kemptville and Monsignor Paul Baxter in Ottawa. The latest information doesnt reflect the temporary closure of St. Charles Catholic School in North York, near Dufferin Street and Lawrence Avenue West. It closed Monday for a week after an itinerant teacher, who tested positive for COVID-19, had contact with three classes in the school of 250. That staff member had been assigned to four other schools St. Demetrius, St. Mark, St. Roch and St. Ursula. But only St. Charles is closed. Like many boards, the Toronto Catholic board has continued using travelling, or itinerant, teachers to instruct students in gym, music and French during the pandemic, a plan that was approved by the Ministry of Education. Its the first Toronto Catholic school to shut down because of COVID, and the second school in the city. Mason Road Junior P.S. which has been closed since Sept. 28 is scheduled to reopen Tuesday. More than 170 students and staff at the Scarborough elementary school were ordered to stay home and isolate last week while the school shut its doors after four positive cases of COVID-19 were confirmed by the school board, including one student and three staff. The TDSB updates its information on current COVID-19 cases throughout the day on its website. As of 9:30 p.m., Sunday, there were 90 TDSB schools with at least one active case 84 students and 31 staff. The Toronto Catholic District School Board also updates its information on its website. As of Sunday at 8 p.m., there were 31 schools with a COVID-19 case, with 35 students and nine staff infected. Epidemiologists have told the Star that the rising numbers in the schools arent a surprise, and that the cases will be proportionate to the amount of COVID that is in the community. Ontario reported 615 new cases overall on Monday 289 in Toronto, 88 in Peel and 81 in Ottawa. These rising numbers come after a significant overhaul of COVID screening guidelines in Ontario schools last week. Kids who recover quickly from a runny nose, headache or upset stomach will no longer need a COVID test to return to schools and daycares. Toronto adopted the controversial new provincial guidelines for daily screening after the citys medical officer of health Dr. Eileen de Villa said at a Friday press conference she wanted to review the local data first before committing to the policy. It added to the chaos and confusion for parents and teachers wondering whether to get kids tested for the sniffles. The agency worked very diligently before sending out updated guidance to schools that evening, Dubey told the Stars May Warren on Sunday. With files from Rhythm Sachdeva, May Warren, Patti Winsa and Cheyenne Bholla Fuel Your Pipeline. Close More Deals. Our full-service marketing programs deliver sales-ready leads. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee! Learn more Google on Tuesday took a step toward controlling spam voice calls on Android devices with a new addition to its phone app. The Verified Calls feature will display a callers name, logo, reason for calling and a verification symbol indicating a business has been verified by Google. Regular Call Experience (L) | Verified Call Experience (R) This is done in a secure way Google doesnt collect or store any personally identifiable information after verification, Google Product Manager Gal Vered explained in a company blog. Google Phone, which will feature Verified Calls, comes preloaded on many Android phones. For those that dont have the app out of the box, the company announced the software will be available later this week as a download from the Google Play store. The service will initially roll out in the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Spain and India, with more countries to follow. Addressing a Significant Problem Google is following a path that all carriers have to follow, said Liz Miller, vice president and a principal analyst Constellation Research. These robocalls, these scam calls have become a significant problem, not only because theyre an invasion of privacy, but because theyre working, she told TechNewsWorld. According to an FCC report, the median loss in 2019 for a consumer who fell for a phone scam was US$1,000. At the carrier level, at the app level and at the device level, everyone is trying to figure out a way to combat this, Miller continued. I think Googles answer through this app fits into the mold of being part of the solution to this problem. Bob ODonnell, founder and chief analyst with Technalysis Research, noted that Googles offering could be very useful. We all get spam calls from all kinds of places so more and more companies are trying to figure out ways to block them, he told TechNewsWorld. The one challenge is that the carriers are also trying to provide some of these services so theres a potential of overlap, but I think it makes more sense to provide it from the OS perspective, he continued. The carriers dont have nearly as much information as Google, he added. Efforts to Squash Spammers Theres been a renewed interest in preventing scams and robocalls, which have exploded in the past few years, said Ross Rubin, the principal analyst with Reticle Research. In March, for example, the FCC launched its STIR/SHAKEN initiative, which is supposed to be fully implemented in 2021. STIR/SHAKEN Secure Telephone Identity Revisited (STIR) and Signature-based Handling of Asserted Information Using toKENs (SHAKEN) takes aim at caller ID spoofing. Spoofing occurs when the caller ID number displayed on a phone isnt the one belonging to the caller. With STIR/SHAKEN, calls traveling through phone networks will have their caller ID signed as legitimate by originating carriers and validated by other carriers before reaching consumers. Google goes a step further than that by identifying the rationale for a call, Rubin told TechNewsWorld. On the carrier side, T-Mobile has launched ScamShield, which gives its users control over a suite of protections against unwanted calls. The T-Mobile approach is a classic filtering play, trying to block as many robocalls as possible, Rubin explained. Google is not only trying to validate the caller but the value of the call itself. Apple, too, has joined the anti-scam party with its Silence Unkown Callers feature in iOS 13. When the option is enabled, all calls from unknown numbers are sent to voice mail automatically. Privacy Concerns Although Google isnt storing any personally identifiable information with Verified Calls, that doesnt mean Google isnt collecting data from the process. A D V E R T I S E M E N T What Google is telling businesses is if you register with us and tell us who youre calling and what the call is about, well forward that to the caller, explained Jack E. Gold, founder and principal analyst with J.Gold Associates. The problem is calls have to be registered with Google to make that happen, he told TechNewsWorld. Do we trust Google to have that additional data about us? The data isnt personal, but they still have your phone number, he continued. Its the same thing with web browsing. They dont retain any personal data with web browsing either, but they know what ads to serve you, dont they? Google is saying its trying to help users of Android systems, which is probably true, he added. On the other hand, do I want Google to know that I have bank accounts with the Bank of America? This is a double-edged sword, and raises all kinds of privacy concerns, he said. Google doesnt do anything that doesnt benefit Google, Constellation Researchs Miller added. Theres certainly data thats being collected and stored, its just falling outside the realm of personal identifying information, she said. A Fee-Based Future? Information gathered by Google during the verification process could also be used to gain a competitive advantage over rivals. If Google can gain insights into the needs of the businesses doing these verifications, thats an opportunity to better tailor online advertising to those businesses, Rubin suggested. Facebook is a very important marketing channel for a lot of small businesses, he continued. Google wants to be able to compete there. If it has a better sense of the products and services of a business, it can better tailor its online advertising offerings to that business. Although Verified Calls is being launched as a free service, some experts believe it could be converted into a cash channel in the future. A year from now, Google could go to companies and say, We increased your call pickups by X percent. Its time to start paying for this service, Gold speculated. This is a great money-making opportunity for Google, Miller added. Its part of Google being part of the solution but also finding a nice revenue stream to help businesses get people to pick up the phone. Technalysis Researchs ODonnell, though, maintained that getting businesses and consumers to use Verified Calls will produce revenue for Google without charging for the service. Google wants to get people to use their services, he said. Using their services produces more data and information for them. More data and information can be turned into advertising revenue for them. Katharine Esty, an 86-year-old psychologist, admits she fell into "a funk" when she was about to turn 80 in 2014. "I was kind of a little depressed," Esty tells CNBC Make It. At the time, Esty, who in her 70s had no real health issues, was experiencing changes in her body. Suddenly, she was no longer able to do one of her favorite mountain hikes in Concord, Massachusetts, where she lives at a retirement community. "I couldn't make it to the top," says Esty, who is a widow, a mother of four and a grandmother of 10. But instead of just feeling down about entering a new decade, Esty, a practicing psychotherapist and social psychologist, decided to interview people in their 80s to find out what life was really like for them. She was surprised at what she discovered. "Most people don't know that the aging brain is kinder than a younger brain, so people in their 80s and above are happier than others," says Esty. In interviewing 128 octogenarians over three years, Esty found that most 80-year-olds are thriving. While "only a handful" of Esty's interviewees were unhappy (some of those living in nursing homes), most of them made peace even if they had pain and disease, she says. It's not all "doom and gloom" like people make it out to be, Esty says. London, Oct 5 : British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has warned it may be "bumpy through to Christmas" and beyond as the UK deals with coronavirus. Speaking at a BBC program, the PM said there was "hope" in beating Covid, but called on the public to "act fearlessly but with common sense". He said the government was taking a "balanced" approach between saving lives and protecting the economy. His comments come as the UK announced more than 10,000 new cases for the first time since mass testing began. There were 12,872 new cases announced on Saturday. However, the government said a technical issue meant some cases earlier in the week were not recorded at the time so had been included in Saturday's data. Government sources said that because of an IT error there had been a delay entering the details of positive cases into the NHS Test and Trace system in England, which slowed the process of finding their contacts. The problem was a "serious issue" but it has been "contained", sources said. The Prime Minister said: "The best thing we can do now for all those who have suffered in the course of this pandemic is bring it to an end in the speediest possible way." Labour's shadow health minister, Alex Norris, criticised the interview as a "wasted opportunity" to set out a "serious strategy to improve public confidence in the government's handling of this crisis". He said: "Instead [the PM] waffled and ducked every question. His serial incompetence is holding Britain back." Johnson said he believed over the "next few weeks and months" the "scientific equation will change whether that is vaccines or testing" and there will be "progress" in beating the virus. As a result, he said there was "hope" and "things can be significantly different by Christmas", as well as being "radically different" by spring. But, the PM warned there could be "a very tough winter for all of us", adding: "I tell you in all candour, it will continue to be bumpy through to Christmas and may even be bumpy beyond." Labour has been a long-standing critic of the performance of the Test and Trace system, with its leader, Keir Starmer, accusing the government of having "lost control" of the virus. Johnson said the system was "not perfect" and that he was "frustrated with it". But he defended its "massive increase in capacity", saying it had "made a huge difference" in tackling Covid-19. Johnson also stood by the Eat Out to Help Out restaurant discount introduced in August, which some critics have said added to the rise in coronavirus cases in September. "In so far as that scheme may have helped to spread the virus then obviously we need to counteract that and we need to counteract that with the discipline and the measures that we're proposing," he said. But he insisted it was "right to reopen the economy" as the government tries to "strike the right balance". Johnson said he took "full responsibility for everything that has happened since the pandemic began". Asked about how effective the latest local lockdowns were in tackling the growing number of cases, the prime minister said it was "too early to say". Johnson said he understood the "frustrations" of people living in the affected areas - as well as a number of his own backbench MPs - but defended the action, saying: "I'm a freedom-loving Tory. I don't want to have to impose measures like this, are you crazy? "This is the last thing we want to do. But I also have to save life. And that's our priority." "And I also think, by the way, that's the priority of the British people and I think they will want to see their government continue to work, continuing to fight the virus and that's what we're doing." Labour's shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth earlier called for the government to publish guidelines on what criteria they used to impose local lockdowns, and to involve local council leaders and health officials. He said there were questions as to why current areas have extra restrictions, while the constituencies of cabinet ministers with higher case numbers remained unchanged. "Because there are no clear guidelines as to why an area goes into restrictions, and how an area comes out of restrictions, then there is a suspicion that there is political interference," he said. "I hope there isn't. But until the government publish clear guidelines, that suspicion will always linger." Johnson was also asked about his health following his own experience of fighting coronavirus in March and April - and in light of US President Donald Trump testing positive. The PM said when he had the virus he was "too fat" and it was a "teachable moment for our great country" to get on top of the issue of obesity. But he claimed it was "balderdash" that he was still suffering from the effects of coronavirus, known as "long Covid". He said the claim was "drivel", adding: "It is balderdash and nonsense. I can tell you I'm fitter than several butchers' dogs." The Conservatives are currently holding their first virtual party conference due to coronavirus restrictions on mass gatherings. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Hikmet Hajiyev, aide to Azerbaijani president Ilkham Aliyev, said that Yerevan targeted large cities Ganja and Mingachevir with missile strikes Baku: The fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces continued over the separatist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, with Azerbaijan accusing Armenia of targeting the country's cities that are far beyond the conflict zone. Hikmet Hajiyev, aide to Azerbaijani President Ilkham Aliyev, said on Sunday that Armenia targeted large cities Ganja and Mingachevir with missile strikes. Ganja, home to several hundred thousand residents and the country's second-largest city, is located roughly 100 kilometres (about 60 miles) away from Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh's capital, and so is Mingachevir. The clashes erupted on 27 September and have killed dozens, marking the biggest escalation in the decades-old conflict over the region, which lies within Azerbaijan but is controlled by local ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia. Hajiyev on Sunday tweeted a video depicting damaged buildings, and called it the result of Armenia's massive missile attacks against dense residential areas in Ganja. It wasn't immediately possible to verify the authenticity of the video. Missile attacks by Armenia against Azerbaijani civilians and civil infrastructure: 1. Ganja:4+Smerch missiles with cluster ammunition. 2nd biggest city. 2. Khizi&Absheron region: Two 300 km mid range missile. 3. Mingachevir: 2 missiles. Water reservoir and Electricity plant pic.twitter.com/m4vFz5zrKw Hikmet Hajiyev (@HikmetHajiyev) October 4, 2020 Hajiyev said in another tweet on Sunday evening that Armenian forces also hit Mingachevir, which hosts a water reservoir and key electricity plant, with a missile strike. Armenia's Defense Ministry vehemently denied the claims. The ministry's spokeswoman Shushan Stepanian wrote on Facebook that no fire was opened from Armenia in the direction of Azerbaijan and called the accusations desperate convulsions of the Azerbaijani side. Nagorno-Karabakh's leader, Arayik Harutyunyan, said on Facebook that he ordered rocket attacks to neutralize military objects in Ganja, but later told his forces to stop firing to avoid civilian casualties. His spokesman Vahram Poghosyan told Armenian media on Sunday evening there was no reason for Nagorno-Karabakh forces to target Mingachevir. Azerbaijani officials denied that any military objects had been hit in Ganja, but said the attack caused damage to civilian infrastructure. One civilian has been killed, and 32 others sustained injuries, authorities said. Opening fire on the territory of Azerbaijan from the territory of Armenia is clearly provocative and expands the zone of hostilities, Azerbaijani Defence Minister Zakir Hasanov said in a statement on Sunday. According to Hajiyev, no serious damage was inflicted on the infrastructure in Mingachevir, but civilians (have been) wounded. As the fighting resumed Sunday morning, Armenian officials accused Azerbaijan of carrying out strikes on Stepanakert and targeting the civilian population there. Nagorno-Karabakh's leader Harutyunyan said that in response, his forces would target military facilities permanently located in major cities of Azerbaijan. In a statement issued later on Sunday, Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry rejected accusations of targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. Aliyev, the Azerbaijani president, tweeted Sunday that the country's troops liberated from occupation the city of Jabrayil and several surrounding villages. Nagorno-Karabakh's officials rejected the claim as untrue, saying the territory's army is controlling the situation in all directions. Nagorno-Karabakh officials have said nearly 200 servicemen on their side have died in the clashes so far. Eighteen civilians have been killed and more than 90 others wounded. Azerbaijani authorities haven't given details on their military casualties, but said 24 civilians were killed and 111 others were wounded on their side. Nagorno-Karabakh was a designated autonomous region within Azerbaijan during the Soviet era. It claimed independence from Azerbaijan in 1991, about three months before the Soviet Union's collapse. A full-scale war that broke out in 1992 killed an estimated 30,000 people. By the time the war ended in 1994, Armenian forces not only held Nagorno-Karabakh itself but substantial areas outside the territory's formal borders, including Jabrayil, the town Azerbaijan claimed to have taken on Sunday. This week's fighting has prompted calls for a cease-fire from around the world. On Thursday, leaders of Russia, France and the United States co-chairs of the so-called Minsk Group, which was set up by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in 1992 to resolve the conflict issued a joint statement calling for an immediate cease-fire and resuming substantive negotiations ... under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs. Azerbaijani President Aliyev repeatedly said that Armenia's withdrawal from Nagorno-Karabakh is the sole condition to end the fighting. Armenian officials allege that Turkey is involved in the conflict and is sending fighters from Syria to the region. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said earlier this week that a cease-fire can be established only if Turkey is removed from the South Caucasus. Spokesman of Nagorno-Karabakh's leader Vahram Poghosyan said on Facebook Sunday evening that since Azerbaijan has involved terrorist mercenaries" in the region, this means that the current situation gives us a legitimate right to move our operations to the entire territory of Azerbaijan to clear it of terrorist groups. Ankara has denied sending arms or foreign fighters, while publicly siding with Azerbaijan in the dispute. On Sunday, Turkey's Foreign Ministry condemned the attack on Ganja, saying it was proof of Armenia's disregard for the law. Ankara accused Armenia of attacking civilian residential areas and claimed that Armenia could commit crimes against humanity. Ottawa, Oct 5 : Amid a second Covid-19 wave, Canada has reported 1,679 new cases and 19 fatalities, which increased the overall infection tally and death toll to 165,986 and 9,481, respectively, according to health officials. A total of 140,243 patients or 84 per cent of all infections have recovered since the pandemic first hit the country earlier this year, while over 9.15 million tests have been administered, reports Global News Canada. In a series of tweets on Sunday, Canada's chief public health officer Theresa Tam, said: "This year's (Thanksgiving) celebrations need to include an abundance of personal protections and a set-up for virtual or safe distancing connections. "Gatherings indoors will be safest if small and select, especially in regions of the country where infection rates are highest. "Remember, too close is too close, even if you are outdoors. Don't share food or objects, 'Bring-Your-Own' is safer. Do share friendships, experiences and the great Canadian outdoors - together apart." In the past week, an average of 17,000 people have been tested on a daily basis, with 1.8 per cent resulting as positive, according to Tam. Despite pleas from public health officials, new cases were spiking as Canadians continued to gather with those outside their household and in restaurants and bars across the country. While addressing the nation on September 23, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that a second coronavirus wave was underway in the country and that "we're on the brink of a fall that could be much worse than the spring". The country witnessed a sudden spike in the number of coronavirus cases, from about 300 per day in August to a record high of 1,248 on September 22, Global News Canada reported citing health officials. Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19) -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Nearly 500 people have tested positive for coronavirus at the University of Sheffield in a mass outbreak of the disease likely to cause panic. According to an online tracker on the university's website, 474 students and five staff members have tested positive for Covid-19 since September 28. Sheffield University has around 8,000 staff members and usually hosts 29,000 students on its campus every academic year. A spokesman said those affected by coronavirus were following Government guidelines and that support is available. It is understood that no whole student accommodation blocks are in lockdown at the moment. It comes as more than 750 students at Northumbria University, in Newcastle, are confined to their dorms after nearly 800 people tested positive for coronavirus. The spokesman said: 'We recognise how difficult it is for students who are new to Sheffield and need to self-isolate because of Covid-19 cases. 'To make sure we are supporting students in the best way possible, we will contact all students who are self-isolating to check on their welfare and offer practical and emotional support.' The weekly coronavirus rate in Sheffield for the seven days to October 1 now stands at 233.1 new cases per 100,000 people. In other coronavirus developments today: Chancellor Rishi Sunak warned that he will 'balance the books' after the coronavirus crisis in a hint that taxes will rise and there will be spending cuts; Official figures updated with the missed cases show that, based on the date on which samples were taken rather than when the result was published, the UK's daily rate has not been below 6,000 since September 21; Ministers are putting the finishing touches to a traffic-light system which could pave the way for harsher restrictions like pub closures in certain areas; Next year's school exams would be delayed by three weeks as the crisis rolls on; Mr Sunak is 'frustrated' by the 10pm pubs curfew and has 'no regrets' about Eat Out to Help Out - despite Mr Johnson suggesting it fueled Covid cases; Trials of an air passenger testing regime are expected to begin within weeks in a victory for the Mail's Get Britain Flying campaign; Health minister Lord Bethell claimed Britain will look back at its Covid-19 response 'like the Olympics' and be 'extremely proud' Nearly 500 people have tested positive for coronavirus at the University of Sheffield in a mass outbreak of the disease likely to cause panic (pictured, Sheffield students enjoying Freshers') According to the university's online tracker, 474 students and five staff members have tested positive for Covid-19 since September 28 (pictured, Sheffield students enjoying Freshers') A Sheffield University spokesman said those affected by coronavirus were following Government guidelines and that support is available. It is understood that no whole student accommodation blocks are in lockdown at the moment Nearly 500 people have tested positive at the University of Sheffield. The weekly Covid rate in Sheffield for the seven days to October 1 now stands at 233.1 new cases per 100,000 people The weekly rate of new infections has soared in dozens of areas of England following the addition of nearly 16,000 that had previously been unreported nationwide The new data have now been added to the government's systems. Based on the date on which samples were collected, rather than when the result was published, the UK's daily rate has not been below 6,000 since September 21 Manchester has the highest rate in England, with 2,740 cases recorded in the seven days to October 1 the equivalent of 495.6 cases per 100,000 people, up from 223.2 the week before There have been new fears over tighter restrictions in Sheffield after nearly 300 Covid-19 cases were recorded in a single day. In Newcastle, 770 students have tested positive for coronavirus and are self-isolating for 14 days in line with Government guidance. Newcastle University confirmed it has had 94 students and seven staff test positive, though a spokeswoman said the 'overwhelming majority of cases' were from 'social and domestic settings'. Leaked document reveals possible pub closures and ban on ALL social contact outside your household under proposed red, amber, green 'traffic-light' system Ministers are planning tough new 'red alert' lockdowns, with a leaked document revealing that all social contact outside homes could be banned under the most extreme part of a proposed 'traffic-light-style' system, according to reports. The new three-tier system includes an Alert Level Three which will include tough new restrictions - which almost parallel the complete lockdown measures imposed in March. These include closing all hospitality and leisure business and banning contact with anyone outside a person's household in any setting. Non-professional sports will also be stopped - though places of worship will still be allowed to stay open - which was not the case during the original coronavirus lockdown. It comes as the UK recorded 23,000 new coronavirus infections on Sunday following a 'technical glitch' which meant thousands of cases were initially missed off the official data. The tough new red measures, outlined in a leaked document seen by The Guardian, will only be imposed either nationally or in a specific area if the virus cannot be controlled by measures in Alert Level Two or if an area sees a 'significant increase in transmission'. Measures for 'Alert Level Two', amber in the traffic light system, include limiting social gatherings to people within a household and support bubble, while travel will be limited to essential purposes. Alert Level Two will be triggered when there has been a rise in infections and local measures cannot control it. Meanwhile Alert Level One, green, will include the measures that are already in place, such as the 'rule of six', the 10pm Covid curfew on hospitality businesses and the wearing of face masks in public places such as supermarkets and public transport. According to the Guardian, A Whitehall source said the levels were intended to be 'minimum standards'. The source added that specific local circumstances in each area would also be taken into account. Advertisement University and College Union (UCU) said it warned Northumbria University that it was 'far too soon for a mass return to campus'. In a statement the UCU said: 'We told Northumbria University they had a civic duty to put the health of staff, students and the local community first and we take no pleasure in now seeing another preventable crisis play out. 'We warned last month that, given the current restrictions in the region, the direction of the infection rate and the problems with test and trace, it was clearly far too soon for a mass return to campus.' It comes as Manchester was branded the coronavirus capital of the UK after 'missed' new cases were added to its recent tally. The weekly rate of new infections has soared in dozens of areas of England following the addition of nearly 16,000 that had previously been unreported nationwide. Manchester has the highest rate in England, with 2,740 cases recorded in the seven days to October 1 the equivalent of 495.6 cases per 100,000 people, up from 223.2 in the previous week. Liverpool has the second highest rate, up from 287.1 to 456.4, with 2,273 new cases. Knowsley is in third place, up from 300.3 to 452.1, with 682 new cases. Other areas recording sharp increases include Newcastle upon Tyne (up from 256.6 to 399.6, with 1,210 new cases); Nottingham (up from 52.0 to 283.9, with 945 new cases); Leeds (up from 138.8 to 274.5, with 2,177 new cases); and Sheffield (up from 91.8 to 233.1, with 1,363 new cases). It comes after 16,000 coronavirus cases were missed due to a computer glitch - meaning thousands more potentially infected contacts were not traced. The extraordinary meltdown is believed to have been caused by an Excel spreadsheet containing lab results reaching its maxium size, and failing to update. Some 15,841 cases between September 25 and October 2 were not uploaded to the government dashboard. As well as underestimating the scale of the outbreak in the UK, critically the details were not passed to contact tracers, meaning people exposed to the virus were not tracked down. Work and Pensions Secretary Therese Coffey conceded this morning that more Britons 'may well' have been infected due to the blunder. Boris Johnson was unable even to say how many people were being contact traced in the wake of the bungle. But he scrambled to play down concerns that ministers have been making pivotal decisions on lockdown without accurate information, saying the outbreak was still in line with where its experts thought. The shambolic situation sparked an immediate backlash against PHE - which is already set to be abolished and replaced by the government - with claims 'everything it touches turns to sh**'. But the body hit back by pointing the finger at the Test & Trace operation, run by Baroness Dido Harding. 'We report the data when they send it. We didn't get it,' one official told Sky News. Meanwhile, Health Secretary Matt Hancock is expected to hold an emergency meeting with angry local mayors about the situation, before what promises to be a bruising appearance in the Commons this evening. The technical issue has now been resolved by splitting the Excel files into batches. PHE officials said the outstanding cases were transferred to NHS Test and Trace 'immediately' after the issue was resolved and thanked contact tracers for their 'additional efforts' over the weekend to clear the backlog. Tax rises ARE coming: Rishi Sunak warns he WILL need to balance the books after Covid crisis as he desperately tries to quell rumours of feud with 'special' Boris Johnson and vows to protect jobs in speech to Tory faithful Rishi Sunak warned of tax rises to come and lavished praise on 'special' Boris Johnson today as he tried to quell growing rumours of a feud over lockdown. The Chancellor hailed the PM as a 'close personal friend' and 'rare' communicator who had 'got the big calls right' as he delivered his keynote speech to Tory conference. He even noted that their families were 'joined' and his daughters loved Mr Johnson's dog Dilyn. Mr Sunak again conceded that he will not be able to save all jobs, but pointed to the huge government bailouts so far and said his sole priority would be to spread 'opportunity'. In a bizarre 'virtual' address beset with technical problems, and with Mr Sunak reading awkwardly off an autocue that appeared to be in the wrong place, he also delivered a stark warning that 'hard choices' on tax rises and spending cuts will be needed after the immediate crisis passes. Mr Sunak said 'over the medium term' the government will need to 'get our borrowing and debt back under control'. 'This Conservative government will always balance the books,' he said. The speech came after Mr Sunak risked fueling the speculation of tensions with Mr Johnson branded the 10pm pubs curfew 'frustrating' and insisted he had 'no regrets' about the Eat Out to Help Out scheme. By contrast the PM admitted yesterday that the dining subsidies might have contributed to the sharp rise in coronavirus cases. The two men were pictured together visiting an energy firm this morning in an apparent bid to smooth over the situation. Advertisement All cases were passed on to tracers by 1am on Saturday, meaning potential delays of more than a week in contacting thousands of people who were exposed to the virus and telling them to self-isolate. PHE said every single person who was tested initially had received their test result as normal, with all those testing positive told to self-isolate. The technical issue meant daily totals reported on the Government's coronavirus dashboard over the last week have been lower than the true number. For example, 4,786 cases which were due to be reported on October 2 were not included in the daily total on the dashboard that day, when the figure was given as 6,968. The Government's dashboard said that, as of 9am on Sunday, there had been a further 22,961 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK, taking the total number of cases in the UK to 502,978. A note on the dashboard said: 'The cases by publish date for 3 and 4 October include 15,841 additional cases with specimen dates between 25 September and 2 October they are therefore artificially high for England and the UK.' Michael Brodie, interim chief executive at PHE, said the 'technical issue' was identified overnight on Friday October 2 in the data load process that transfers Covid-19 positive lab results into reporting dashboards. The problem was caused by an Excel spreadsheet reaching its maximum file size, which stopped new names being added in an automated process. The files have now been split into smaller multiple files to prevent the issue happening again. Test and Trace and Public Health England joint medical adviser Susan Hopkins said: 'All outstanding cases were immediately transferred to the contact tracing system by 1am on 3 October and a thorough public health risk assessment was undertaken to ensure outstanding cases were prioritised for contact tracing effectively.' PHE said NHS Test and Trace have made sure that there are more than enough contact tracers working, and are working with local health protection teams to ensure they also have sufficient resources to be urgently able to contact all cases. The number of call attempts is being increased from 10 to 15 over 96 hours. However, in a round of interviews this morning, Ms Coffey admitted that people are likely to have been infected as a consequence of the failures. Asked if some could have become infected because of the error, she told Sky News: 'There may well be, and I've been made aware that probably the majority of that (contact tracing) has happened in the latest element of the week, in the last couple of days. 'So it's important that we act quickly, and PHE (Public Health England) is acting quickly, to see whether or not people are required to self-isolate. 'Because I do recognise that not quite everybody going through the regime will be identified by the Test and Trace regime to undertake that further self-isolation.' On a visit to an energy firm in London today, Boris Johnson - who refused to give a full explanation in an interview yesterday - said 'some of the data got truncated and it was lost'. Every London borough saw a spike in coronavirus cases last week except Camden, official figures reveal as mayor Sadiq Khan warns the city is at a 'tipping point' Coronavirus cases are soaring in every part of London except Camden, according to official data. The capital city so far seems to have been spared the worst of Britain's second wave of Covid-19, which has been concentrated in the north of England. But signs are emerging that the virus is rebounding in London, with some boroughs seeing the ratio of positive tests per person more than double in seven days. Public Health England has put every borough of the city on its watchlist as an area of 'concern', meaning it will be monitored closely in the coming days and weeks. The biggest surge was seen in the leafy suburb of Richmond upon Thames, where cases rose by 154 per cent between September 20 and 27. This happened despite the numbers of tests going down, suggesting it represents a genuine increase. Although, PHE statistics show not a single borough has a rate higher than England's average weekly infection rate of 59 cases per 100,000 people. Meanwhile, Camden was the only part of the city to see cases decline in the latter half of September, with the infection rate dropping by 70 per cent. This happened despite more tests being done the opposite situation to Richmond's. London, which was the beating heart of the first wave of the epidemic in spring, is believed to have a higher level of immunity to Covid-19 to the rest of the country at least one in seven people there are thought to have recovered from the disease already. Advertisement 'But what they have done now is not only contacted all the people who were identified as having the disease that was done in the first place but they are now working through all the contacts as well,' he said. 'The key thing, I would say, and it goes for everybody, is that if you are contacted by NHS Test and Trace then you must self-isolate, if you are told you have been in contact with somebody who has the virus. 'There is support of 500 for doing so and of course a 10,000 fine if you don't.' Mr Johnson played down concerns that ministers have been taking crucial lockdown decisions without accurate information. He said the updated figures meant that the prevalence of the virus was where experts had expected, insisting it will soon become clear if extra restrictions for some parts of the country were having the intended impact. 'The incidence that we are seeing in the cases corresponds to pretty much where we thought we were,' he said. 'And, to be frank, I think that the slightly lower numbers that we'd seen, you know, didn't really reflect where we thought the disease was likely to go, so I think these numbers are realistic. 'The crucial thing is that in the next few days, week, we'll see more clearly whether some of the restrictions that we put in the extra enforcement of the rule of six, the extra enforcement of self-isolation, the rules on masks and so on all the stuff that has come in, we'll see whether that starts to work in driving down the virus.' If people followed the guidance 'I have no doubt that we will be able to get on top of it, as indeed we did earlier this year'. Shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said: 'This is shambolic and people across the country will be understandably alarmed. 'Matt Hancock should come to the House of Commons on Monday to explain what on earth has happened, what impact it has had on our ability to contain this virus and what he plans to do to fix test and trace.' On Saturday, Professor Graham Medley, an attendee of the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies, tweeted: 'Reporting delays play havoc with data streams and make them very difficult to analyse in real time. 'If the delays change or vary by group then they can distort a lot. Wonder what these will do to the R estimates next week'. Professor Paul Hunter, an epidemiologist at the University of East Anglia, said last night: 'Clearly in the management of any epidemic you need good-quality data without that data it is very difficult to respond. It is a real problem.' Government adviser Professor Graham Medley, who sits on the Sage emergency panel, said: 'Reporting delays play havoc with data streams and make them very difficult to analyse in real time. If the delays change or vary by group then they can distort a lot. I wonder what these will do to the R estimates next week?' PM and Sunak put on united front after Chancellor swipes at 'frustrating' 10pm pubs curfew Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson put on a united front today after the Chancellor branded the 10pm pubs curfew 'frustrating' and insisted he had 'no regrets' about the Eat Out to Help Out scheme. The two politicians were pictured together visiting an energy firm after Mr Sunak mounted a staunch defence of his subsidies on dining out - despite the PM admitting they might have contributed to the sharp rise in coronavirus cases. In an interview ahead of his keynote speech to Tory conference, Mr Sunak said the scheme had propped up two million jobs. Cementing his status as the leading Cabinet 'hawk' on the need to get the economy running again, he told The Sun: 'I don't think it's wrong for people to want to strive for normality and I don't think it's wrong for the Government to want that for people.' The intervention came after Mr Johnson came under fierce questioning over his handling of the crisis, with criticism of chaotic local lockdowns and shambolic testing. He admitted yesterday that he had dropped his 'buoyant' style during the pandemic because it was 'inappropriate'. By contrast, Mr Sunak has been praised for his tone talking about the impact of the disease, and the speed with which complicated bailouts including furlough were implemented. Mr Johnson tried to bridge the apparent gap between their messages yesterday by saying that he wanted the public to be 'fearless but use common sense'. Advertisement Dr Duncan Robertson, an expert in modelling and policy analytics at Loughborough University, added: 'It is important to understand the reason for the delay. 'If this is a reporting delay, that is bad enough, but if there have been delays in putting these cases into the NHS Test and Trace database, that can have serious implications for spreading the disease.' Critics said if there was a real spike in cases in the coming days it could be missed, because it is impossible to tell which infections are new and which are simply the backlog filtering through. Mr Johnson and his scientific advisers have repeatedly pointed to rising case numbers to justify tighter regulations. Local restrictions are dependent on infection data. A swing of a dozen cases in a week in a small town or borough is enough to be the difference between lockdown being imposed or businesses and families being allowed to continue as normal. Public Health England interim chief executive Michael Brodie said last night: 'A technical issue was identified overnight on Friday, October 2, in the data load process that transfers Covid-19 positive lab results into reporting dashboards. 'After rapid investigation, we have identified that 15,841 cases between September 25 and October 2 were not included in the reported daily Covid-19 cases. 'Every one of these cases received their Covid-19 test result as normal and all those who tested positive were advised to self-isolate.' Earlier, in separate hospital data, 28 people were recorded as having died from coronavirus in Britain. The figure - ten more than last week - brings the UK's total death toll during the pandemic to 42,345. Scotland has reported 758 new cases and no new deaths. Wales has 432 further cases but its death toll remains the same as no new fatalities were reported. All 28 deaths were recorded in England, with 25 in hospitals in the North East, Yorkshire and the Midlands. Patients were all aged between 69 and 94 years old and had underlying health conditions. The figure comes after a 'failure in the counting system' was blamed for coronavirus cases nearly doubling yesterday - as Boris Johnson hinted contact tracing might have been delayed. Earlier, the PM dodged giving a fuller explanation as he was grilled on the extraordinary spike reported yesterday, with just under 13,000 new cases. T he total number of coronavirus cases in the UK has topped 500,000 after it emerged that nearly 16,000 cases were not included in the Government's daily reports. Public Health England said an investigation into a "technical issue" found that 15,841 cases between September 25 and October 2 were not included in the daily case reports. The majority of cases occurred in later days, PHE said. For example, 4,786 cases which were due to be reported on October 2 were not included in the daily total on the dashboard that day, when the figure was given as 6,968. The number of people who have tested positive for Covid-19 in the UK now stands at 502,978. According to updated Government figures, as of 9am on Sunday there had been a further 22,961 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK. Michael Brodie, the interim chief executive at PHE, said the technical issue was identified overnight on Friday in the data load process that transfers Covid-19 positive lab results into reporting dashboards. Every one of these cases received their Covid-19 test result as normal and all those who tested positive were advised to self-isolate," said Mr Brodie. Loading.... NHS Test and Trace and PHE have worked to quickly resolve the issue and transferred all outstanding cases immediately into the NHS Test and Trace contact tracing system and I would like to thank contact tracing and health protection colleagues for their additional efforts over the weekend. We fully understand the concern this may cause and further robust measures have been put in place as a result, he said. Senior officials insisted the outstanding cases were transferred to NHS Test and Trace immediately after the issue was resolved and thanked contact tracers for their additional efforts over the weekend to clear the backlog. But according to reports in the Telegraph, the "stalled" system meant that contacts of tens of thousands of people's close contacts are only now being reached by NHS Test and Trace. Therese Coffey says PHE are working quickly to rectify the IT error Test and Trace and PHE joint medical adviser, Susan Hopkins, said the issue had not prevented people receiving their test result or affected decision-making in local areas. She said: Of these, over 75 per cent (11,968) relate to cases that should have been reported between 30 September and 2 October. This issue did not affect people receiving their Covid-19 test results and all people who tested positive have received their Covid-19 test result in the normal way. It also does not impact the basis on which decisions about local action were taken last week. Coronavirus hits the UK - In pictures 1 /81 Coronavirus hits the UK - In pictures A deserted Westminster Bridge PA A man wearing a face mask or covering due to the COVID-19 pandemic, walks past customers sat outside a restaurant AFP via Getty Images Boris Johnson addresses the nation on the Coronavirus lockdown Andrew Parsons Runners pass cardboard cutouts of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince William during the London Marathon in London AP An empty escalator at Charing Coss London Underground tube station Jeremy Selwyn Electronic bilboards displays a message warning people to stay home in Sheffield PA A sign is displayed in the window of a student accommodation building following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Mancheste Reuters People take part in a 'We Do Not Consent' rally at Trafalgar Square, organised by Stop New Normal, to protest against coronavirus restrictions, in Londo AP People sing and dance in Leicester Square on the eve on the 10PM curfew Reuters Hearts painted by a team of artists from Upfest are seen in the grass at Queen Square, following the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Bristol Reuters Graffiti reads 'good luck and stay safe', as the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases grow around the world, under a bridge in London Reuters A sign is pictured in Soho, amid the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in London Reuters Prime Minister Boris Johnson gestures, during a coronavirus briefing in Downing Street, London AP A person runs past posters with a message of hope, as the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues in Manchester REUTERS Riot police face protesters who took part in a 'We Do Not Consent' rally at Trafalgar Square, organised by Stop New Normal, to protest against coronavirus restrictions in London AP An image of The Queen eith quotes from her broadcast to the UK and the Commonwealth in relation to the Coronavirus epidemic are displayed on lights in London's Piccadilly Circus PA Military vehicles cross Westminster Bridge after members of the 101 Logistic Brigade delivered a consignment of medical masks to St Thomas' hospital Getty Images Durdle Door in Dorset Reuters Captain Tom Moore via Reuters Mia, aged 8, and Jack, aged 5, take part in "PE with Joe" a daily live workout with Joe Wicks on Youtube to help kids stay fit who have to stay indoors due to the Coronavirus outbreak PA An NHS worker reacts at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital during the Clap for our Carers campaign in support of the NHS Reuters Goats which have taken over the deserted streets of Llandudno @AndrewStuart via PA Tobias Weller PA Novikov restaurant in London with its shutters pulled down while the restaurant is closed London Landscapes: Hyde Park and the Serpentine, central London. Matt Writtle A newspaper vendor in Manchester city centre giving away free toilet rolls with every paper bought as shops run low on supplies due to fears over the spread of the coronavirus PA Theo Clay looks out of his window next to his hand-drawn picture of a rainbow in Liverpool, as the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continue Reuters A young man cuts another man's hair on top of a closed hairdresser in Oxford Reuters General view of the new NHS Nightingale Hospital, built to fight against the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in London via Reuters Jason Baird is seen dressed as Spiderman during his daily exercise to cheer up local children in Stockport, as the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues Reuters A woman wearing a face mask walks past Buckingham Palace Getty Images A man holds mobile phone displaying a text message alert sent by the government warning that new rules are in force across the UK and people must stay at home PA Medical staff on the Covid-19 ward at the Neath Port Talbot Hospital, in Wales, as the health services continue their response to the coronavirus outbreak. PA Prime Minister Boris Johnson taking part in a virtual Cabinet meeting with his top team of ministers PA A shopper walks past empty shelves in a Lidl store on in Wallington. After spates of "panic buying" cleared supermarket shelves of items like toilet paper and cleaning products, stores across the UK have introduced limits on purchases during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some have also created special time slots for the elderly and other shoppers vulnerable to the new coronavirus. Getty Images People on a busy tube train in London at rush hour PA Mia, aged 8 and her brother Jack, aged 5 from Essex, continue their school work at home, after being sent home due to the coronavirus PA Children are painting 'Chase the rainbows' artwork and springing up in windows across the country Reuters Social distancing in Primrose Hill Jeremy Selwyn A general view of a locked gate at Anfield, Liverpool as The Premier League has been suspended PA Homeless people in London AFP via Getty Images A piece of art by the artist, known as the Rebel Bear has appeared on a wall on Bank Street in Glasgow. The new addition to Glasgow's street art is capturing the global Coronavirus crisis. The piece features a woman and a man pulling back to give each other a kiss PA The Queen leaves Buckingham Palace, London, for Windsor Castle to socially distance herself amid the coronavirus pandemic PA A general view on Grey street, Newcastle as coronavirus cases grow around the world Reuters Matt Raw, a British national who returned from the coronavirus-hit city of Wuhan in China, leaves quaratine at Arrowe Park Hospital on Merseyside PA Britain's Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty (L) and Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance look on as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson gestures as he speaks during a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) news conference inside 10 Downing Street Reuters The ticket-validation terminals at the tram stop on Edinburgh's Princes Street are cleaned following the coronavirus outbreak. PA Locked school gates at Rockcliffe First School in Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear PA A sign at a Sainsbury's supermarket informs customers that limits have been set on a small number of products as the number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases grow around the world Reuters Jawad Javed delivers coronavirus protection kits that he and his wife have put together to the vulnerable people of their community of Stenhousemuir, between Glasgow and Edinburgh AFP via Getty Images A sign advertising a book titled "How Will We Survive On Earth?" Getty Images A man who appears to be homeless sleeping wearing a mask today in Victoria Jeremy Selwyn A pedestrian walks past graffiti that reads "Diseases are in the City" in Edinburgh AFP via Getty Images Staff from The Lyric Theatre, London inform patrons, as it shuts its doors PA A quiet looking George IV Bridge in Edinburgh PA A quieter than usual British Museum Getty Images A racegoer attends Cheltenham in a fashionable face mask SplashNews.com A commuter wears a face mask at London Bridge Station Jeremy Selwyn A empty restaurant in the Bull Ring Shopping Centre Getty Images A deserted Trafalgar Square in London PA Passengers determined to avoid the coronavirus before leaving the UK arrive at Gatwick Airport Getty Images All outstanding cases were immediately transferred to the contact tracing system by 1am on 3 October and a thorough public health risk assessment was undertaken to ensure outstanding cases were prioritised for contact tracing effectively. PHE said NHS Test and Trace said there were more than enough contact tracers working, and they were coordinating with local Health Protection Teams to ensure they also have sufficient resources to be urgently able to contact all cases. The number of call attempts has been increased from 10 to 15 over 96 hours. The technical issue was caused by the fact that some data files reporting positive test results exceeded the maximum file size for loading into the centralised contact tracing and public dashboard systems. PHE said a rapid mitigation has been put in place that splits large files and a full end-to-end review of all systems has been instigated to mitigate the risk of this happening again. Additional reporting by PA Media. Dhaka, Oct 5 : Biman Bangladesh has suffered losses worth Tk 11 billion ($129 million) over two Boeing 777-200 aircraft leased from Egypt five years ago, according to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. This was revealed on Sunday in a meeting document of the Ministry's parliamentary committee, reports bdnews24. The meeting held last month heard that the revenue made from the two aircraft totalled Tk 22 billion against expenditures running up to Tk 33 billion. For these planes, the flag carrier had been giving subsidies of Tk 110 million per month before completing the payment in March. In the meeting, Md Mohibul Haque, senior secretary to the Ministry, said the airline was keen to put a halt on leasing jets and that three new aircraft were expected to arrive this year. Among them, two would be added to Biman's fleet this year and the other would join the fleet next year. Each of these aircraft cost $24 million, Mohibul added. The committee had previously expressed its reservations about leasing the two aircraft, which the Biman leased from Egypt Air on a five-year term, bdnews24 reported. One of the planes was put in Biman operations in March 2014 while the other was incorporated to the fleet two months later. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text Following the recommendation from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) that the country may need to enter Level 5 restrictions, INTO has called for an immediate public health review on the status of schools at this level. In addition, the union has this morning written to Minister for Education Norma Foley TD demanding an urgent meeting with the education stakeholders. In a letter to Minister for Education Norma Foley TD this morning, the INTO General Secretary John Boyle noted that the five-level plan for living with Covid-19 states that the safe continuation of education and childcare is a key priority and that it is government's intention that schools and creches will remain open in levels 1-4 with protective measures in place. Mr Boyle further noted that to date at stakeholder consultations we have received no clarification on what protective measures would apply in primary and special schools at these four different levels. In our view it is inconceivable that the same protections - hand sanitising, hand washing, enhanced cleaning, ventilation, pods and bubbles - would be deemed to be sufficient at all of these four levels. Commenting specifically on a possible escalation to Level 5, Mr Boyle said: It is very clear from the five-level plan that in all other situations and workplaces that there will be a marked difference in the approach taken at the different levels further commenting that should an area of the country move to level five, recommendations for schools and creches will be based on the precise situation and evidence at the time. The evidence to date is that by the end of the first month of the school year 187 schools had testing completed as a consequence of public health risk assessment and that there were 59 confirmed cases in primary and special schools. Mr Boyle demanded urgent clarity as to what additional measures government would take to protect everyone in primary and special schools at level four compared with what is currently in place for schools including those in Dublin and Donegal, where level three applies. Crucially we now also need clarity on the plans for primary and special schools in areas where level five would apply. In our view it is incomprehensible that our schools, which have the largest class sizes in Europe, would remain fully open at a time where infection levels were so high in the community that no indoor gatherings or events were permissible. Finally, Mr Boyle confirmed that while we share the ambition to have schools safely open, it is not acceptable that teachers appear to be placed at greater risk of infection compared with citizens and workers generally and compared with teachers in comparable countries. Government must immediately seek a comprehensive review of expert Irish public health advice relating to primary and special schools. If there is clear medical evidence and advice behind current policy on schools, we need to see and examine this as soon as possible. Accordingly, we request that your Department provides us with the clarifications we require early this week and for that purpose that a special meeting of key stakeholders be held at the earliest opportunity. As chairman of the U.S. Federal Election Commission, Ive read with growing concern the recent number of stories concerning vote-by-mail for this Novembers general election. Having practiced election law for almost two decades, served as the general counsel for the Texas secretary of state, been involved in statewide recounts in Florida, Michigan, and Texas, and litigated numerous election contests, including one before the Texas House of Representatives, I can unequivocally state that the best way to make sure your vote counts in this election is to vote in person. Make no mistake, if the 2020 election continues beyond Election Day into litigation to determine a winner, the primary focus of all the parties will initially be the elimination of mail-in ballots that do not meet the numerous statutory requirements to be counted. Mail-in ballots are the low-hanging fruit in an election contest and the easiest way to put the true outcome of an election in question and thereby allow the courts to determine the winner. This situation is easily remedied by Americans simply showing up at the polls and voting in person. Real-life examples from congressional primaries in the past few months forecast the many failings of mail-in voting. Note that mail-in voting is different from legitimate absentee and military/overseas voting, although recent reports show that even those votes are subject to mistreatment and potential loss. On the surface, vote-by-mail sounds like a quick and easy way for every registered voter to participate in our democracy. In reality, it opens the U.S. to fraudulent elections on a massive scale that will probably result in invalid results, contested elections, and delays lasting weeks, if not months. For example, New York States congressional primary was held on June 23. One congressional district did not have an official winner until August 4, and several competitive races took almost a month to finally settle. The delay in results is entirely the result of mail-in ballots. Similar problems have occurred this year in Wisconsin, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Maryland, and Georgia. Nationally, more than 500,000 mail ballots were rejected during this years primary season alone. Story continues In recent decades, legislatures and courts have made voting easy, particularly early voting. Now, there is an election season culminating in an Election Day. Mail-in balloting means that fewer results are verifiable. An all or mostly vote-by-mail election, as weve repeatedly witnessed, turns almost every Election Day into a lengthy and chaotic mess. For example, voting by mail without requiring a signature that matches the original registration card means there is no proof that the correct ballot was sent to the voter. Perhaps most troubling of all, Pennsylvanias secretary of the commonwealth, Kathy Boockvar (appointed by Governor Tom Wolf), has astonishingly prohibited county clerks from verifying future absentee-ballot signatures by matching them to their voter-registration card, thus creating an unverifiable election in a state that is critical to deciding the presidential election. Furthermore, if a voter has moved recently (10 percent of the population moves every year), he may be able to vote more than once at his old address and also the new one. That could result in as many as 14 million people who vote twice this November, with the expected turnout exceeding 140 million voters. In addition to real-time election fiascos that have occurred already this year, we have seen numerous examples of active voter fraud taking place in multiple states. A Philadelphia election judge and former U.S. congressman, for instance, has been charged for stuffing ballot boxes on behalf of three candidates. In New Jersey, four men have been charged with voter fraud and ballot theft by the states attorney general. Also, in New Jersey, 2,300 ballots were disqualified after it was revealed that the signatures on the ballots did not match the signatures on the registration cards. In West Virginia, a postal carrier pled guilty to changing the political affiliation on multiple ballots. A family in Atlanta received a voter-registration form addressed to their cat, which had died twelve years earlier. Just last week, nine mailed-in military ballots in Pennsylvania were found tossed into a garbage can because the voters did not have control of their own ballot from the time they filled it out to its delivery point. The latest scandal involves a police investigation in Minnesota into the question of whether Representative Ilhan Omars campaign is paying hundreds of dollars to individuals to illegally harvest mail-in ballots by fraudulently collecting more than the three ballots allowed per collector under Minnesota law. Once a mail-in ballot leaves the voters hands, the chance for fraud and criminal behavior increases. And, with pre-paid postage (meaning theres no date stamp on the envelope), who will prevent cheaters from printing and mailing ballots after Election Day? There is a simple way to encourage legal absentee-ballot voting, which is a model effectively used in Colorado and Oregon, and, in the case of the latter state, since the 2000 election. Simply require all absentee ballots to be turned in to their local registrar on or before Election Day. This eliminates the chance of ballot fraud by limiting the number of people who touch each ballot from the time the voter receives it to the time it is tabulated. Furthermore, it most certainly eliminates ballot counting that lasts for weeks and months, and it gives candidates and voters same-day certainty of the results. Currently, 19 states allow post-election ballot reception for this years general election. Election and ballot integrity should be the priority of every civil servant involved in monitoring and implementing free and fair elections. As chairman of the Federal Election Commission, I take this seriously, even though it falls outside the jurisdiction of the agency to enforce. Waiting weeks or months to learn the outcome of our elections is an embarrassment. Turning a blind eye to behaviors that knowingly lead to, and in some cases encourage, fraud is a dereliction of duty. Every citizen should resolve to mitigate this problem and commit to voting in person if possible. More from National Review Tana Mongeau's YouTube verification has been canceled, possibly due to her offering nude photos in exchange for voting for Joe Biden in the upcoming presidential election. The 22-year-old influencer has more than 5.5 million subscribers on her channel, and TMZ reported that some of her followers noted her verification checkmark - which has a major impact in her ability to rack up views and dollars - was missing. It was not immediately clear why the verification checkmark was absent from Mongeau's account or when it was removed. The latest: Tana Mongeau's YouTube verification has been canceled, possibly due to her offering nude photos in exchange for voting for Joe Biden in the upcoming presidential election. She was snapped last year in LA The controversy began on September 30 when she began an Onlyfans promotion named #bootyforbiden, promising a nude pic in exchange for proof of a vote for Democratic nominee Joe Biden in next month's presidential election. The Las Vegas-born beauty's promotion might have been a breach of federal election law, as it's prohibited to give anything in exchange for a vote. The YouTube star last week posted a shot that appeared to be a scantily clad selfie - with Biden's face photoshopped over her's - with a message on Instagram in regards to the move. She wrote: 'Update #bootyforbiden broke tana uncensored. [Love] to see so many [people] who want change as badly as [I] do.' The YouTube star last week posted a shot that appeared to be a scantily clad selfie - with Biden's face photoshopped over her's - with a message on Instagram in regards to the move Key element: A YouTube account's verification checkmark has a major impact in her ability to rack up views and dollars The social media star said that picking the former Vice President over current President Donald Trump was the best move for the U.S. You 'dont need my a** to know whats right for America so go VOTE! today was fun,' she wrote, adding an abbreviated 'I love you' with an emoji of the American flag. Biden's campaign said that the nominee had registered a negative COVID-19 test Sunday amid concerns after his Cleveland debate with President Donald Trump, after which the president revealed he'd tested positive for the virus, and was subsequently hospitalized. Biden tested negative twice this past Friday. Stating her case: The social media star, snapped last month in LA, said that picking the former Vice President over current President Donald Trump was the best move for the U.S. Significant developments have emerged in the investigation into the mysterious disappearance of Jon Jonsson, who vanished without a trace in Dublin in February last year while at a poker tournament. In a series of substantive advances in the case, police in Iceland have been informed that Mr Jonsson was killed "by accident" by a fellow countryman after a falling out over squandered gambling money. An imprisoned criminal in Iceland has played an "instrumental" role in communicating a dramatic version of events, now under investigation, which it is claimed culminated in the murder of the taxi driver. Gardai are being kept abreast of developments by police in Iceland and await further updates, security sources confirm. Mr Jonsson (41) arrived in the capital on Friday, February 8, and was booked into the Bonnington Hotel in Whitehall. He checked in alone. His fiancee, Jana Gudjonsdottir, couldn't travel until the following day. The couple had booked a 10-day stay in Dublin to include a three-day poker tournament. Gambling is illegal in Iceland but it was a keen interest of Mr Jonsson's and his fiancee. Police in Iceland have been informed that Mr Jonsson joined an illicit poker game on the Friday night, and lost more than 4,000 belonging to an Icelandic criminal. While Mr Jonsson was not involved in criminality, it has been reported to police that he came to Ireland with this large sum of cash belonging to the criminal. The money was earmarked for poker registration purposes for a number of players. But instead, it is claimed, Mr Jonsson got involved in a high-stakes game and lost the lot. It is also alleged that he tried to leave when he began to lose but was not allowed and was "given a few slaps" by other card players, also believed to be foreign nationals. The next morning, Ms Gudjonsdottir arrived at the hotel and found Mr Jonsson asleep in their room. The couple are believed to have had a tense conversation when he awoke and he left the hotel without his passport, wallet or phone. He did not tell her where he was going. Ms Gudjonsdottir declined to comment when contacted on the latest developments in Iceland. The missing man's sister, Anna Hildur, also declined to comment. The last images of Mr Jonsson show him leaving the hotel shortly after 11am. He is seen on CCTV turning right and walking north on the Swords Road. It is now thought he was on his way to meet the Icelandic man whose money he lost gambling the night before. In recent months, a criminal serving time in an Icelandic jail for theft is believed to have made contact with Mr Jonsson's family. This man is not thought to have been in Ireland when Mr Jonsson disappeared. Family The criminal managed to put the family in touch with a woman "close to him". It's understood the information conveyed contains allegations another Icelandic criminal killed the father-of-four "by accident" when he became angry about losing his money. This information is now under active investigation. Private investigator Liam Brady, who was hired by the family, and was involved in the latest developments, confirmed his probe into the disappearance is over "for now". Gardai at Ballymun continue to actively investigate the case. Turkey today condemned French President Emmanuel Macron's bid to rid France of 'Islamic separatism', saying his statements 'encourage Islamophobia'. Eighteen months before a French presidential election in which he is expected to face a challenge from the right, Macron described Islam as a religion 'in crisis' worldwide on Friday. Turkish President Erdogan's spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said Macron's 'dangerous and provocative' vision 'encourages Islamophobia and anti-Muslim populism'. The ruling AKP party's spokesman Omer Celik added Macron's 'talk about a "French Islam" is a dictatorial approach and utter ignorance'. French President Emmanuel Macron delivers a speech to present his strategy to fight separatism, in Les Mureaux, outside Paris, France, on October 2. Turkey today condemned his bid to 'rid France of Islamic separatism', saying his statements 'encourage Islamophobia' He said: 'Macron's point of view only provides ideological munitions to terror groups like the Islamic State.' On Sunday, the Turkish foreign ministry said Macron's initiative would have 'grave consequences rather than solve France's problems'. Macron's plan to 'liberate Islam in France from foreign influences' adds to a growing list of disputes between the French leader and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Turkish officials frequently attack Macron, who last year said NATO was showing signs of 'brain death' by failing to stand up to Turkey's unilateral military intervention in Syria. Macron and Erdogan are currently feuding over maritime rights in the eastern Mediterranean, Libya, Syria and, most recently, the escalating conflict in Azerbaijan's Armenian separatist region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Erdogan's (pictured right, with Libya's internationally recognized Prime Minister Fayez al-Sarraj in Istanbul, Turkey, yesterday) spokesman Ibrahim Kalin said in a tweet that Macron's 'dangerous and provocative' vision 'encourages Islamophobia and anti-Muslim populism' Emmanuel Macron described Islam as 'a religion that is in crisis all over the world' as he unveiled his proposal to battle Islamic radicalism, saying it had created a 'parallel society' living outside of French values. In a keynote speech lasting more than an hour, France's head of state said on Friday that Islam was in crisis due to 'an extreme hardening' of positions in recent years. He said the government would this year present a draft law aimed at strengthening secularism in France against what Macron described as 'Islamist separatism' in the country. Macron insisted 'no concessions' would be made in a new drive to push religion out of education and the public sector across the country. He coined the term 'separatism' to describe the underworld that thrives in some neighborhoods around France where Muslims with a radical vision of their religion take control of the local population to inculcate their beliefs. But members of the nation's six-million-strong Muslim community the largest in Western Europe immediately accused him of stirring up Islamophobic and racist feeling so as to appeal to far-Right voters ahead of the presidential elections. Emmanuel Macron (pictured earlier today) has described Islam as 'a religion that is in crisis all over the world' as he unveiled a proposal to battle Islamic radicalism which had created a 'parallel society' living outside of French values In a speech broadcast live from Les Mureaux, north of Paris, Mr Macron said 'we must tackle Islamist separatism' while not 'stigmatising all Muslims'. A new law will allow the dissolution of religious groups that 'attack the dignity of people, using psychological or physical pressure, and break the values of France'. There will also be an end to the system of 'seconded Imams' which allows extremist clerics and other preachers to be trained abroad before moving to France. 'We ourselves are going to train our Imams and Chanters in France, and therefore we must detach this link which is what is called consular Islam,' said Macron. He said all French Imams would have to be certified from now on and could be shut down at any time. The equivalent of more than 9.7million will be spent to work France's Islam Foundation a moderate organisation which promotes traditional Muslim study in culture, history and science. Macron said this would help to ensure the dominance of a religion 'respects the values of the Republic'. The head of state added that there would also be closer scrutiny of the curriculum at private schools and stricter limits on home-schooling for reasons other than a child's health problems. Some 1,700 private Muslim school and colleges currently teach around 85,000 children in France. Community associations that receive state subsidies will have to sign a contract avowing their commitment to secularism and the values of France. The new measures will also include a ban on the wearing of religious symbols for employees of subcontractors providing public services, such as transport operators. The rule already applies to public servants. Macron said there had been increased reports of abuses by sub-contracting staff, including bus drivers refusing women entry for wearing clothing considered too revealing. He emphasised that it was necessary to 'liberate Islam in France from foreign influences,' naming countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey. Macron stressed that the measures did not seek to stigmatise or alienate France's Muslims but to bolster 'our ability to live together'. Friday 's speech came as a trial continued in Paris over the deadly January 2015 attacks on satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo (above) and a kosher supermarket by French-born Islamic extremist He urged better understanding of Islam and said the problem of radicalisation was partly a product of the 'ghettoisation' of French cities and towns where 'we constructed our own separatism'. 'We have concentrated populations based on their origins, we have not sufficiently created diversity, or ensured economic and social mobility in segregated areas,' he said. Radical Islamists have swooped in, taking advantage of 'our withdrawal, our cowardice,' he added. But Macron was immediately criticised for stirring up Islamophobic and racist feeling to appeal to far-Right voters ahead of the presidential elections. Yassar Louati, a prominent civil liberties activist based in Paris, has said: 'The repression of Muslims has been a threat, now it is a promise. 'In a one-hour speech #Macron burried #laicite, emboldened the far right, anti-Muslim leftists and threatened the lives of Muslim students by calling for drastic limits on home schooling despite a global pandemic.' Rim-Sarah Alaoune, a French academic, also took to social media to say: 'President Macron described Islam as "a religion that is in crisis all over the world today". I don't even know what to say. 'This remark is so dumb (sorry it is) that it does not need any further analysis I won't hide that I am concerned. 'No mention of white supremacy even though we are the country that exported the racist and white supremacist theory of the "great replacement", used by the terrorist who committed the horrific massacre in #Christchurch.' Friday's speech came as a trial was underway in Paris over the deadly January 2015 attacks on satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo and a kosher supermarket by French-born Islamic extremists. Last week, a man from Pakistan stabbed two people near Charlie Hebdo's former offices in anger over its publication of caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad. Earlier this month, divisions were highlighted when MPs walked out when a university student entered parliament in a headscarf. And in January, a renewed debate about freedom of expression erupted when a teenager received death threats for attacking Islam in an expletive-laden Instagram rant. Macron's long-awaited address came 18 months before presidential elections where he is set to face a challenge from the right, as public concern grows over security in France. The proposed law is expected to go before parliament for debate in the first part of next year. Americans' plans to socialize outside in colder weather when COVID-19 will still be a threat to indoor gatherings are prompting an expensive and environmentally questionable rush on outdoor heaters. Why it matters: Heating outdoor patios is a big new cost for businesses, and the energy sources are almost always fossil fuels that contribute to climate change. Where it stands: Nearly 50% of full-service restaurants say theyre taking actions to extend outdoor dining seasons, including patio heaters, according to a survey by the National Restaurant Association. Other businesses, like ski lodges, are also buying more outdoor heaters. Jeremy Sasson, president of Michigan-based Heirloom Hospitality, which runs three restaurants in the Detroit area, said he has increased the numbers of heaters he uses from eight or 10 in previous years to 25 this year. The cost of fuel for heating which is just one of numerous wholly new categories of costs for restaurants in the pandemic is about the same as some of his rents, Sasson said, coming in at around $200 a day. Im willing to spend the money to stay open, said Sasson, who employs between 200 and 250 people. It stabilizes the jobs within the restaurants. How it works: Propane, a liquid gas that comes from crude oil and natural gas, is typically the most popular type of energy source because it is freestanding and can be moved around. Electric heaters are another option, but they are not mobile. Among fossil-fuel products, propane is the second cleanest behind natural gas, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Electric heaters may appear cleaner, but considering almost two-thirds of Americas electricity comes from natural gas and coal, theyre not cleaner and can actually be less efficient, according to experts. In any case, additional carbon emissions come with the use of outdoor heaters of any type unless renewable energy is powering an electric heater. By the numbers: It's hard to pin down either the total number of heaters being used or the amount of energy being used given the lack of publicly available data. Some experts have nonetheless tried to crunch the numbers. Paul Sankey, an independent oil analyst, estimated that restaurants in New York City using outdoor heaters may consume about 1,600 barrels of propane a day. Thats compared to the approximately 100,000 barrels of propane typically used for commercial uses throughout the entire U.S., per EIA data. Although this is a drop in the bucket, it's for just one (large) city. used for commercial uses throughout the entire U.S., per EIA data. Although this is a drop in the bucket, it's for just one (large) city. From an emissions perspective, the overall impact is likely small, but its still a whole new category of emissions being created when scientists are saying the world needs to cut emissions. Looking just at the fall season and estimating that maybe half of Americas roughly 1 million restaurants might use outdoor heaters, one environmentalist crunched numbers on behalf of Axios. This person, who doesnt want to be named given the unofficial nature of the analysis, concluded such heaters could create 1.5 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, which is 0.02% of todays emissions. The intrigue: New York City, which has one of the most aggressive climate-change plans of any city, is allowing more use of outdoor heaters, including propane, in the wake of the pandemic. That doesnt change our commitment to fighting climate change in New York City, Mitch Schwartz, a spokesperson for Mayor Bill de Blasio, said in an email to Axios. It only means were in unusual times, and were going to do what it takes to support the restaurants that make our city great. The move has prompted some local media to criticize the city and compare it to other leaders on climate change, namely France, which is banning outdoor heaters (however, only after this winter). What we're watching: The booming propane business. Paraco, a New York-based propane company, usually sells 100,000 fuel tanks per month this time of year to New York City and surrounding areas. Now, its up to a monthly 250,000 tanks. Its sales in this category are up 200%, and one big-box store told the company its patio heater sales are up 1,500%. Sankey describes it as the seemingly all-but COVID-proof propane market. Shortages are not expected for now, per Paraco officials and other propane experts. Editors note: This story has been corrected to say that two-thirds of U.S. electricity is generated by natural gas and coal (not natural gas and oil). RICHLAND, Wash. - Dust blowing onto high mountains in the western Himalayas is a bigger factor than previously thought in hastening the melting of snow there, researchers show in a study published Oct. 5 in Nature Climate Change. That's because dust - lots of it in the Himalayas - absorbs sunlight, heating the snow that surrounds it. "It turns out that dust blowing hundreds of miles from parts of Africa and Asia and landing at very high elevations has a broad impact on the snow cycle in a region that is home to one of the largest masses of snow and ice on Earth," said Yun Qian, atmospheric scientist at the U.S. Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Qian and Chandan Sarangi, formerly a postdoctoral associate at PNNL and now at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras in India, are corresponding authors of the study. More than 700 million people in southeast Asia, as well as parts of China and India, depend on melting snow in the Himalayas for much of their freshwater needs in summer and early fall, driving the urgency of scientists ferreting out the factors that influence earlier snowmelt in the region. In a study funded by NASA, scientists analyzed some of the most detailed satellite images ever taken of the Himalayas to measure aerosols, elevation, and surface characteristics such as the presence of dust or pollution on snow. Of dust, soot, sun and snow: The albedo effect Dark objects on or in snow absorb sunlight more effectively than pure white snow, whose reflectivity fends off sunlight so forcefully that snow can be blinding on a bright, sunny day. But snow near an object that absorbs sunlight - like snow on a dark-colored car where some of the roof is exposed - heats up and melts faster than pristine snow. Scientists use the word "albedo" to discuss how well a surface reflects sunlight. Dirty snow has a low albedo, while pure snow has a high albedo. Dust and soot lower snow's albedo, causing the snow to absorb more light, heating up and melting snow faster. The albedo effect at high elevations is crucial to life for millions of people who rely on snowmelt for their drinking water. Darker, dirtier snow melts faster than pure snow, changing the timing and amount of snowmelt and affecting agriculture and other aspects of life. The powerful effect of dirty snow The team found that dust plays a much larger role melting snow than soot and other forms of pollution, known as black carbon, at elevations above 4,500 meters. Below that, black carbon dominates. It's a surprise for scientists, who note that far more studies have explored the role of black carbon than dust in snowmelt. The dust blows into the western Himalayas from the west - from the Thar Desert in northwestern India, from Saudi Arabia and even from the Sahara in Africa. The dust comes in winds thousands of feet high, at what scientists call elevated aerosol layers. While desert dust is natural, the scientists say that its prevalence in the Himalayas is not without human influence. Increasing temperatures have changed atmospheric circulation, affecting the winds that can carry dust hundreds or thousands of miles. Changing land-use patterns and increasing development have reduced vegetation, liberating dust that otherwise would have been tied to the land. Qian was one of the first scientists to develop sophisticated modeling tools to analyze how impurities like dust and soot affect the rate at which snow melts. He did that early work more than a decade ago in the mountains of the U.S. West. "It's likely that these results translate to other high mountain chains, including the Rockies, Sierras and Cascades in North America and several mountain chains in Asia, such as the Caucuses and Urals," Qian said. Much of the data for the study comes from satellite images obtained by multiple NASA instruments, including NASA's Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO), OMI (Ozone Monitoring Instrument), and MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer). These instruments can detect dust and other aerosols in the atmosphere, and measure snow coverage and albedo, from hundreds of miles above Earth. Equipped with data from these and other sources, the PNNL team did extensive computer modeling of the processes at work. Dust with staying power Dust particles usually stay in snow longer than black carbon, the scientists noted. Dust is usually a little bit bigger; it's not as easily blown off the snow and it doesn't fall through snow as easily. There's also a lot more of it. "The snow in the western Himalayas is receding rapidly. We need to understand why this is happening, and we need to understand the implications," said Sarangi. "We've shown that dust can be a big contributor to the accelerated snowmelt. Hundreds of millions of people in the region rely on snow for their drinking water - we need to consider factors like dust seriously to understand what's happening." Qian notes that as the climate warms and snow lines move higher, scientists expect the role of dust to become even more pronounced in the Himalayas - a region that, aside from the Arctic and Antarctic regions, contains the biggest mass of snow and ice on the planet. ### Additional PNNL authors of the paper are Ruby Leung and Duli Chand. Other authors include Karl Rittger of the University of Colorado Boulder, Kat Bormann of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Thomas Painter of the University of California, Los Angeles. Painter has been studying the phenomenon for decades, since noticing the effect of dust on snowmelt while climbing a peak in Colorado. "This paper shows that dust, working together with increased black carbon and rising carbon dioxide levels, is a dominant driver of snowmelt in the Himalayas," Painter said. "If we realize that increasing dust is a huge problem and that it's driving much of the snow and glacier melt, we can take actions to reduce dust emissions and buy ourselves time to finally deal with carbon dioxide emissions." As farmers head from September to October, there are still decisions they can make on perennial forages. The most important question, and probably the most common, is do we cut or not cut anymore? But nested within that decision, is do we keep the stand or not keep the stand? said Scott Reuss when speaking of alfalfa hay. Grazing and fertilization are additional factors that farmers need to consider. Reuss, a University of Wisconsin-Extension agricultural agent based in Marinette County, strongly advises that farmers take the time to measure stand density and consistency. I realize that this is not going to be something every farm is going to want to do . . . but if we dont measure stand density as well as consistency, were basically only guessing, he continued in the webinar "Fall Management Decisions for Perennial Forages." Though counting plants works, counting the stems of alfalfa plants is an even better way to check health and gauge yield potential. In using stem density to evaluate alfalfa stands, Reuss suggests that density over 55 stems per a square foot is ideal. When were over 55, great . . . when we get under 40, okay, now we have some problems. Were definitely going to be limiting yield, he said. Farms also need to make decisions based on forage needs. The September 15 Hay Market report shows that dairy-quality hay is selling for $160 to $210 per ton for large square bales. At those prices, and thinking of typical on-farm harvest costs, we actually probably only need about half a ton of dry matter to warrant a harvest this time of year, he said. Cutting in late September or early October slightly raises the risk of winter hardiness issues. However, if the field had one good, long inter-harvest interval, the crowns still have a good opportunity to recharge. It really comes down to a farm-to-farm decision, he said. They have to think about, do they have the time to do this type of a harvest situation, do they have the storage capacity . . . there are multiple little single farm situations that are going to impact this decision, but it does come down to economics and winter risk as far as the two primary ones. The author and her family own and operate a sixth-generation farm near St Johns, Mich. (c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2020 October 1, 2020 Following weeks of protest, students of Ambedkar University of Delhi (AUD) on Monday said that the varsity administration had agreed to the demands put forward by the students demanding fee waiver and technological support for marginalized students. The varsity administration said that it would begin distribution of around 30-40 tablets to needy students this week. On Thursday, students had also staged a sit-in protest outside the vice chancellors office demanding restoration of the old reservation policy, allowing fee waiver, providing tablets to needy students, and increasing the internet reimbursements already being offered by the university to marginalized students. On Thursday, following a meeting with vice chancellor Anu Singh Later, registrar Nitin Malik, proctor Satyaketu Sankrit, dean of students Santosh Singh, and other administrative officials, the varsitys elected students body said they were largely satisfied with the outcome. Though we have not been able to secure a reduction of fees, the meeting was largely successful since the administration has done everything on their end. The university administration said they will help students in getting required SC/ST certificates to facilitate their admissions. The varsity has also assured of increasing the reimbursement being given for Internet packages and extending the facility to research scholars as well, said Shubhojeet Dey, treasurer, AUD students council. Students had also demanded a reduction in semester fee, extension of fee deadline, and removal of fee components like Extra Mural Fee for certain courses. Since we were not having offline classes, these components should not be charged, said Dey. The students body had alleged that the university had revised its reservation policy by tweaking the domicile criterion an allegation rejected by the university. Registrar Nitin Malik said, We explained to the students that the reservation policy being followed is as per the norms of the Delhi government. The registrar said that the tablets could only be distributed after the procurement procedure had concluded. We will start with the distribution of tablets this week, he said. The administration has also extended the deadline to submit the semester fee by one month till November 18. The late fee component has also been removed. Even those wishing for a fee waiver can apply to us and we will take the decision on a case to case basis. Once the reopening directives are in place, we can also open our computer labs for students who need to use it, while maintaining social distancing norms, said Malik. Postgraduate student Riti Choudhari, currently in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, said that attending the online classes has been difficult for her and it was affecting her education. Due to financial challenges, I havent been able to get a new laptop to work on. We have one working smartphone and that belongs to my father. I will only be able to either pay my fee or secure a device for my learning. This is why I was looking forward to getting some assistance from the university, she said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The U.S. flag flies at half-staff outside of the U.S. Supreme Court in memory of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, in Washington on Sept. 19, 2020. (Jose Luis Magana/AFP via Getty Images) Delaware Defends Partisan Judiciary Mandate Before Supreme Court Delaware told the Supreme Court that its law fixing the partisan makeup of that states courts should be upheld, on the first day of the courts new term, which traditionally begins the first Monday in October. Eight justices heard oral arguments telephonically in the case known as Carney v. Adams on Oct. 5. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died at 87 on Sept. 18, and President Donald Trump has nominated federal appeals court Judge Amy Coney Barrett to replace her. Gov. John C. Carney, a Democrat who has held the post since January 2017, seeks to continue the state-mandated partisan cartelization of judicial offices in the First State. The Supreme Court agreed to hear the case after Carney lost in the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals. In an interesting historical parallel, the respondent, James R. Adams, is a disappointed judicial office-seeker asking for redress, similar to William Marbury of the 1803 Supreme Court case of Marbury v. Madison. Adams claims he was unfairly prevented from applying for a judicial post in Delaware after he left the Democratic Party. In the 1803 case, Marbury sued after the incoming president, Thomas Jefferson, refused to allow Marbury to serve as justice of the peace, a commission given to Marbury by outgoing President John Adams as he was leaving office. The Supreme Court refused to order the delivery of the document and established judicial review, the power of federal courts to declare legislative and executive acts unconstitutional. David L. Finger, attorney for respondent James R. Adams, told the justices during oral arguments on Oct. 5 that Delawares constitution denies his client the opportunity to apply for a judgeship because he does not belong to a major political party. A party who suffers unequal treatment has standing to challenge a discriminatory exception that favors others, Finger said. As long as judicial seats are allocated exclusively to political parties, unaffiliated lawyers are categorically excluded, he said. If the court accepts the other sides premises, its the end of the idea of an independent judiciary. Judicial engineering to avoid extremism in judging is not an interest that overcomes the First Amendment, and theres no evidence that political discrimination has had any beneficial effect on the quality of justice in Delaware. Delawares lawyer, Michael W. McConnell, made the case for his client. A fundamental feature of our system of federalism is that the states have broad leeway setting qualifications for their high-ranking officials, including their judges, McConnell told the court. Delaware has used that freedom to create a system unique among the states of constitutionally mandated political balance for its judiciary, with the result that Delawares courts are widely regarded as the least partisan and most professional in the nation. The Delaware Constitution lays out partisan requirements. For example, that document states that three of the five Justices of the Supreme Court in office at the same time, shall be of one major political party, and two of said Justices shall be of the other major political party. This bipartisan representation mandate has existed since 1897 and is called the bare majority principle, in which the majority party holds one more seat on the bench than the minority party in cases of an odd number of seats, according to a Delaware Business Times summary. In 1951, the mandate was modified to require applicants for the top three courts to be members of the major and minority parties, therefore excluding third-party, independent, and unaffiliated voters. Justice Clarence Thomas asked McConnell how far his client could take this major-party principle. Could Delaware, for example, pass a law requiring all judges to be members of one or the other of the major parties? I dont think so, McConnell said. I cant see under any circumstances that that requirement would be reasonably appropriate. Carney said in court documents that the current system serves Delaware, a center of corporate governance used by Americans from across the nation, well and is well-regarded by the business and legal communities. The Delaware courts play a dominant role in Americanand indeed globalcorporate governance. Sixty percent of the Fortune 500 and more than half of the corporations listed on the New York Stock Exchange are incorporated in Delaware, in no small part due to the reputationand realityof the Delaware courts as objective, stable, and nonpartisan. For more than 120 years, the state constitution has mandated a politically balanced judiciary, he said. Justice Brett Kavanaugh asked how the division of judgeships among the major political parties helps promote a lack of partisanship. Why cant independents even better serve the goal of a balanced judiciary? he said. McConnell replied that the law was a check against the governors ability to pack the court and wasnt so much about the applicants for judgeships themselves. The major-party principle isnt an essential backstop, but it is a valuable one, the lawyer said. Vodafone Group announced on 1 September 2020 that it had agreed to proceed with the merger of Indus Towers (Indus Towers) and Bharti Infratel (Bharti Infratel). The agreement to proceed was conditional on consent for a security package for the benefit of the Combined Company (the Security Package) from Vodafone's existing lenders (for the 1.3 billion loan utilised to fund Vodafone's contribution to the Vodafone Idea Ltd rights issue in 2019). This consent has now been received. The parties will now approach the National Company Law Tribunal to make the merger scheme effective. The parties are working to complete the transaction expeditiously. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) Continuing the pressure on the NDA government over the three new agriculture-related laws, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday said that the Centre's "assault" on the farmers would lead to ruination of the country. He however warned the Centre that the agitating farmers would not be scared into submission on these "black laws". Rahul Gandhi was addressing a rally here on the second day of his three-day 'Kheti Bachao Yatra', before he led another 'tractor rally' in support of the farmers protesting against these laws. "The farmers will not be scared into submission. They will face Covid pandemic but fight for their rights on the streets of Punjab and the rest of the country," the Congress leader warned. Joined by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, who lashed out at the Union government for what he called "destroying the time-tested farmer-arhtiya relationship" to hand over the agriculture sector to big corporates like Adanis, Rahul made it clear that the Congress would not stop fighting for the cause of farmers. He said once these industrialists take control of food, every household would have to pay three-fold prices for the produce, leading to devastation and suffering for the entire nation. Not only would the farmers lose their land and livelihood, others associated with the mandis and the food procurement chain would also be rendered jobless, the Congress leader claimed. The Congress MP said that the need of the hour was to strengthen the existing system and to correct its flaws, rather than to destroy it, "which Prime Minister Narendra Modi seemed bent on doing". "Modi is only clearing the ground for his industrialist friends to take over," he charged. Rahul lashed out at the BJP-led NDA government for what he called trying to finish agriculture sector after failing to generate the promised employment. "It is not Adani who creates jobs but small businesses and MSMEs, which Modi has been ruining with his ill-conceived moves like demonetisation and GST etc," he added. Alleging out that for the past six years Modi had been attacking the poor with his policies, Rahul said that demonetisation diverted the common people's hard-earned money through banks to big industrialists, and he ruined the SMEs and small traders with the Goods and Services Tax regime. "Even the Covid crisis has been used by the Prime Minister to help out his capitalist friends, whose loans and taxes he has waived and reduced," he added. The Chief Minister told the people in the heartland of the Malwa region, which records the highest yield in wheat and paddy, that the Modi government had backtracked on every single promise, be it the constitutional promise of GST or employment or doubling of farmers' income. Farmers would allegedly be left by these new laws at the mercy of big industrialists, whom they would never be able to fight or go to for help. "Will you go to the Adanis when in need, as you do with arhtiyas at present?" the Chief Minister asked. "For seven months, Punjab had not got its share of GST money, leaving the state struggling to manage amid Covid pandemic," Amarinder Singh said. Asserting that the Congress, under Rahul Gandhi's leadership, would fight for the farmers till the ned, the Chief Minister appealed to him to ensure repeal of the 'black' laws once the party returned to power at the Centre. Rahul has come to hold the hand of the farmers, he said, terming the new farm L laws an act of total injustice with the farming community. The Modi government did not know how agriculture sector works in Punjab and the country, he said, adding that these legislations would pave the way for scrapping MSP and winding up of the Food Corpooration of India, as per the Shanta Kumar committee recommendations. Amarinder Singh asserted that his government would not let the Centre do this and would take all required steps, including calling a Vidhan Sabha session to makes state laws to neutralise the new central legislations and even move the Supreme Court. Machine Gun Kelly's got his first ever No. 1 on the Billboard 200. And there was no one more proud than his girlfriend Megan Fox. The 34-year-old actress was right next to her 30-year-old musician beau as he celebrated his milestone with friends in front of the iconic Whisky a Go Go in West Hollywood on Saturday. Scroll down for video Support system: Megan Fox supported Machine Gun Kelly as they joined some of his friends in front of the iconic Whisky a Go Go in West Hollywood on Saturday to celebrate his first ever No. 1 on the Billboard 200 The group happily posed in front of a billboard promoting MGK's latest album Tickets To My Downfall. In addition to Megan and MGK - real name Colson Baker - there was drum superstar Travis Barker, who worked on several tracks on the album, as well as Bella Thorne's ex Mod Sun. The Bloody Valentine hitmaker posed happily with his arm around Megan for the celebratory snap. Party people: In addition to Megan and MGK - real name Colson Baker - there was drum superstar Travis Barker, who worked on several tracks on the album, as well as Bella Thorne's ex Mod Sun As MGK has shifted music genres from hip-hop to pop punk, he made sure to show his edgy side by sharing a video of himself throwing a guitar-shaped cake into the window of a Hollywood tourist tour bus. He captioned the video: 'WE DID IT. #1 album. 126,000 units first week. to the fans + EST you really made it happen the way we talked about 10 years ago. today is a celebration. sorry random car [four winking while sticking tongue out emojis]' It was announced on Monday morning that Tickets To My Downfall had earned him his first No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. It is also the first rock album to hit No. 1 in over a year as the last one to do so was Tool's Fear Inoculum on September 14, 2019. Rocking out: As MGK has shifted music genres from hip-hop to pop punk, he made sure to show his edgy side by sharing a video of himself throwing a guitar-shaped cake into the window of a Hollywood tourist tour bus Sweet treat: He could be seen picking up the cake shaped like the pink guitar on the front of his album Smachdown: No doubt tourists were in the thrill of a lifetime as he tossed the cake on the windshield Vibes: He captioned the video: 'WE DID IT. #1 album. 126,000 units first week. to the fans + EST you really made it happen the way we talked about 10 years ago. today is a celebration. sorry random car [four winking while sticking tongue out emojis]' No doubt his relationship with Megan and their high-profile romance has a great deal to do with the album's success as she has been featured in two music videos for it so far. Megan and Kelly went public with their relationship in May after meeting on the set of the movie Midnight In The Switchgrass. Shortly before their romance began, Megan split from her husband of 10-years, Brian Austin Green, 47. Fast times: No doubt his relationship with Megan and their high-profile romance has a great deal to do with the album's success as she has been featured in two music videos for it so far including Drunkface which was released last week It's official! Megan and Kelly (pictured) went public with their relationship in May after meeting on the set of the movie Midnight In The Switchgrass The former couple began dating after meeting on the set of a TV sitcom in 2004 and following an on-off-on again engagement, they tied the knot in 2010. Megan and the Beverly Hills, 90210 star share three sons Noah, eight, Bodhi, six, and Journey, four. Meanwhile, Randall Emmett's directorial debut The Switchgrass was being filmed in Puerto Rico before production shut down in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.The crime thriller also stars Bruce Willis, Emile Hirsch, Lukas Haas, Sistine Stallone and Michael Beach. Those wondering whether Indigenous womens rights are still being violated need only look to the death of Joyce Echaquan for their answer, advocates said Sunday as they participated in an annual vigil for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. Echaquan, an Atikamekw woman, filmed hospital staff insulting her on Monday while she lay dying in her hospital bed in Joliette, Que., in what advocacy organizations said was yet another example of the sort of systemic racism that leaves the disappearances of Indigenous women and girls unsolved. Violence against them is still present, and last week we had yet another horrific example of this, the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador said in a news release that renewed a call for government action to implement a national inquirys recommendations on the issue. Montreal Mayor Valerie Plante, in tweets Sunday marking the day of remembrance, commended crowds of protesters who marched through her citys downtown on Saturday to demand justice for Echaquan, a 37-year-old mother of seven. Plante called for people to be allies of First Nations to end systemic racism and discrimination, and to commit to reconciliation. Echaquan died shortly after filming herself from her hospital bed about 70km north of Montreal, last Monday while she was in clear distress and pleading for help. Two nurses have since been fired, and the coroner will hold an inquest into the incident. Those participating in Sundays virtual Sisters in Spirit vigil lit candles to honour Indigenous women who have been murdered or gone missing. Perry Bellegarde, national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, shared a photo of a candle, noting the signficance of remembering lost women. I stand with the survivors, families, and all of our allies trying to push for better lives for First Nations Women, Bellegarde wrote on Twitter. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also shared a message for families and victims. For far too long, we have failed Indigenous women and girls, Trudeaus Twitter statement read. This ongoing national tragedy must end, and we wont stop working with you until it does. The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls delivered its final report in June 2019. It described the tragedy as genocide, and concluded that decades of systemic racism and human rights violations played a role in the deaths and disappearances of hundreds of Indigenous women and girls. This past June, the Liberal government delayed the intended release of its national action plan on the inquirys recommendations, saying the pandemic was slowing the process down. Lorraine Whitman, president of the Native Womens Association of Canada said while its disappointing that the government did not deliver the plan within one year of the national inquirys final report, its time to focus on what needs to be done to make Indigenous women safer. Whitman shared some of the recommended measures her association submitted to Ottawa as it develops the plan. They include a new investigative unit for cold cases and a database monitoring the cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women in Canada. The tabling of the first version of the national action plan will not stop the violence overnight but I am confident it will start us down the road to creating a country that is a safer place for Indigenous women, Whitman said. The Ontario Native Womens Association also published a report Sunday detailing its recommendations for ending the violence. Those recommendations include investment in local programs supporting mothers involved with the child welfare system, better data collection about human trafficking and development of culturally sensitive victims sevices. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 4, 2020. Beirut: Up to 25,000 Syrians mostly women and children are to be released from a detention camp for Islamic State affiliates and their families in a "general amnesty" aimed at relieving overcrowding and appeasing local Arab communities, a Kurdish official said on Monday. The sprawling and overpopulated al-Hawl camp in northern Syria is home to some 65,000 people and has been a burden to the Kurdish-led US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces and Kurdish police who are in charge of security at the facility. The wives and children of Islamic State fighters in the al-Hawl camp is northern Syria in 2019. Credit:Kate Geraghty Crime rates have been high inside the camp and some of the women have tried to escape. A decision will be taken to empty Syrians from the camp completely, said Ilham Ahmed, president of the executive committee of the Syrian Democratic Council, the self-administration body in north-east Syria in a video released on social media. He did not say when they would be released. Illinois topped 300,000 confirmed coronavirus infections since the pandemic hit the state about seven months ago, state health officials said over the weekend. The Illinois Department of Public Health has recorded 300,088 COVID-19 cases and 8,774 deaths across the state. The agency added 2,442 new infections and 31 deaths to its totals on Saturday. Health officials on Friday issued a list of 28 counties scattered across the state that were considered at a warning level for the coronavirus. Those counties were placed on the warning list after surpassing two or more risk measurements, such as the number of cases per 100,000 people and test positivity rates. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics COVID-19 Illinois Asia North Korea Accuses South of Intrusion in Search for National's Body -- SEOULNorth Korea on Sunday accused South Korea of intrusion into its territory as it searches for the body of a man killed by North Korean troops earlier this week. The Korean Central News Agency said several vessels crossed the border during search operations for the body of the South Korean man, who is currently missing at sea. It added that further intrusions could escalate tensions. Read more. You may also like these stories: Indonesia to Start Food Estate Project Despite Criticism Fujifilm May Seek Approval for COVID-19 Drug Next Month Chinese Media Say Western Groups Paying Myanmar NGOs to Oppose Investment Projects The Culture and Media Federation FAIR-MediaSind, in partnership with the Center for Independent Journalism (CJI), announce the launch of the first open source platform dedicated to culture and media whistleblowers, according to Agerpres. "The difficult situation of social dialogue in Romania, exacerbated by the current pandemic, compels us to find new ways to more effectively defend the rights of our members in the culture and media sectors. This platform is a very useful new tool that we make available to our members in order to be able to identify and address issues in the sector without exposing our whistleblowing members," said Leonard Paduret, FAIR-MediaSind president and head of the FAIR National Trade Union of Culture Workers. According to a release of the trade union organization, the whistleblowing platform is available at fairmediasind.disclosers.eu or can be accessed from the Mediasind website. FAIR-MediaSind, the only representative federation for media and culture workers, said that the platform will use GlobaLeaks; the software is provided by the Hermes Center for Transparency and Digital Human Rights and is promoted in Romania by the Center for Independent Journalism as part of the European project 'Expanding Anonymous Tipping' (EAT). FAIR-MediaSind executive president and president of the Romanian Journalists Union MediaSind, Cristi Godinac, said that the platform will allow culture and media employees and freelancers to report, under the protection of anonymity, various breaches in the institutions they work for. The reports will be handled by the specialized lawyers of the federation and will be solved in due time. "A few months ago we filed to Parliament, on behalf of our colleagues from the Romanian Public Television Broadcaster, a report of public interest. The employer has abusively adopted a code that allows the dismissal of an employee who criticizes their employer or has an opinion difference with the latter. Depending on how they dress or if they sue their employer, our colleagues may be fired because this is considered a serious disciplinary violation. In this context, employee anonymity is essential. We need abuses to be reported. From now on, we and our lawyers know what track to follow. GlobaLeaks makes our work easier," Godinac said. The FAIR-MediaSind leadership emphasizes that it has resorted to this solution so that all 8,000 members of the federation feel safe when they report breaches, without fearing reprisals. "The last few months have shown us how important it is to have whistleblowers who feel safe when they disclose breaches. In a society like ours, where whistleblowers are seen as 'traitors' or are threatened with criminal cases if they talk to the press, for instance, such a platform can ensure their anonymity, if that's what they want," says Cristina Lupu, CJI executive director. The EU Directive No. 1937/23 October 2019 on the protection of persons who report breaches of Union law introduces new requirements for the protection of whistleblowers, in particular the creation of a secure reporting channel, both for public sector organizations and the entities owned or controlled by them, as well as for private sector companies. GlobaLeaks is an open source platform used by over 300 entities across Europe, which serves as an internal secure whistleblowing channel and meets all the requirements of the new EU Whistleblower Protection Directive. Samsungs new flagship processor seems to be on the way. The name of that chip will be the Exynos 2100, it seems, and it is tipped to be way better than the Exynos 990. This information comes from a well-known tipster that goes by the name Mauri QHD on Twitter. He also added that the chip is coming really, really soon, as Samsung seems to be ready to announce it. The Samsung Exynos 2100 is coming soon, and it may be way better than the Exynos 990 The tipster says that the Exynos 2100 will be announced at any moment now. Based on that info, the company will announce it in the coming days, or perhaps weeks, but in any case, really soon. Advertisement If you find the Exynos 2100 name odd, well, youre not the only one. Many people have an issue with that naming, as there doesnt seem to be any logic in it. The Exynos 990 was supposed to be followed by the Exynos 1000. It is possible Samsung wanted to step away from that naming in order to differentiate this SoC. The last couple of iterations of the companys Exynos flagships were not well-received. They lagged behind their Snapdragon counterparts, even though they fueled the same phones. Samsung usually uses the Snapdragon flagship SoCs in the US and China, while Exynos chips end up in Europe and India. European Galaxy S20 and Note 20 devices are inferior to their counterparts from the US, at least according to benchmarks, and various usage reports. Advertisement Samsung is looking to change things up with this new chip, it seems. This new processor is expected to boost the companys Exynos lineup, and finally get much closer to Snapdragon SoCs. This will be a 5nm processor, same as the Snapdragon 875 That has been expected from Samsung for years now, so it remains to be seen if it will happen with the Exynos 2100. The Exynos 2100 will be a 5nm processor, by the way, and it will compete with the yet-unannounced Snapdragon 875. This processor will debut with the Galaxy S21 lineup, almost certainly. It will most likely be included only in some units though, depending on where you live. Weve explained this earlier. Advertisement We still dont have much information on the Exynos 2100, as Samsung did a good job hiding that info. It is reported that AMDs GPU wont be included, as some obscure rumors suggested. Future iterations of Exynos chips may, though. The Exynos 2100 will also ship inside the Galaxy Note 21 series next year, or at least thats whats expected to happen. It remains to be seen if third-party OEMs will utilize this chip in 2021. DANBURY Kindergarten through 12th-graders will return to school on a hybrid model beginning Monday, Oct. 26. Preschool students will return the following week. The return to in-person learning will follow nearly seven weeks of distance learning, prompted by a spike in coronavirus cases in the city in August. Numbers have stabilized since then, so the districts medical team has determined the community is under the moderate range for community spread of the virus, Superintendent Sal Pascarella said. Its been in the red, he said. Now its in the moderate, and being in the moderate, were in the hybrid model. The citys infection rate was about 5 percent last week, which is higher than the states but down from the spike. Mayor Mark Boughton said the trend line supports the hybrid model. Numbers-wise, were right there now, but it does take time to spin out the classrooms and get everyone in alignment, he said. Well have to watch it very carefully in terms of the infection rate, but we really want to get kids back into the (class)rooms. It also helps that a large chuck of the roughly 11,900 students opted to stay home regardless, Pascarella said. As of a few days ago about 3,100 students chose to stay with distance learning. That number is expected to change, however. If more families decide to return to school, that would increase class sizes. That might cause a real challenge, Pascarella said. Parents should have received an email confirming their childrens models and may revise their choice by contacting their childrens school by Wednesday. Under the hybrid model, students with last names beginning with A through L will go to school on Mondays and Tuesdays, while the rest are on distance learning. The cohorts switch on Thursdays and Fridays. Everyone is home on Wednesdays. Models across the state vary by district, with some completely in-person and others using different hybrid schedules. Gov. Ned Lamont has urged all districts to open schools for at least some in-person learning. Our kids from 4 to 14 are at a very low risk in terms of the infection rate, Pascarella said. They think if that stays that way, well be okay. Our only challenge is the flu. Employees, especially those over 50, must also be kept safe, Boughton said. Im very concerned about our staff as much as I am about our kids, he said. The goal is still to get the infection rate down to around 1 percent. I dont know if were going to get the numbers we were at in June and July, Boughton said. Even the state is spiking back up. Everyone is going to have to watch this closely and make changes. Preschool students return a week later because those children traditionally start a week later, Pascarella said. The early education center on Granville Avenue is slightly behind schedule due to delivery delays from the pandemic, he said. Elementary students may have a different teacher due to the number of families selecting full distance learning. We realize that this may be difficult for some, but we must balance safety and the health of staff and students as a first priority, Pascarella wrote in a letter to parents on Friday. Please be assured that all staff are working hard to ensure that any adjustments to your childs schedule will be done with the least amount of disruption possible. Special education or related services will be provided during both in-person and at-home days. Students learning from home can pick up meals outside their school from noon to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. In-person learners eat breakfast in the classroom, with elementary grades eating lunch on site and secondary grades taking a grab and go lunch home. Once schools reopen, the Extended Learning Program will operate Monday through Friday at all of the elementary and middle schools. Registrations are being taken at the ELP office at 49 Osborne St. or online. Pascarella said he expects the district would stay in the hybrid model until state and local health officials advise otherwise. The virus could affect the entire academic year, at minimum, said Dr. John Murphy, president and CEO of Nuvance Health, which includes Danbury Hospital. He said he likes the idea of the hybrid model. The most important thing we have to do is keep the kids safe and protect the health and wellbeing of our children, he said. The same is true for our teachers. Once we fully vaccinate the population, we can get back to a normal semblance of education. The district and medical team will continue to monitor the spread of the virus and revise the learning model if necessary, Pascarella said. We appreciate the partnership between our schools and families, as this has been a learning process for everyone just to get to this point, he wrote. While providing our students with the best education possible is our primary focus, we are also working to make sure that it is easily accessible for every student and that no one falls behind. We believe that we have achieved that through careful planning and consideration. Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra spent two weeks in hospital with coronavirus, a source said Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra tested positive for coronavirus and was treated in hospital last month but has since recovered, a source close to the exiled billionaire told AFP on Saturday. The 71-year-old lives in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates and spent a fortnight in hospital before being discharged in the middle of September, they said. "It's true he was infected several weeks ago, but now he has recovered. He joked that he was on trend," a source within Pheu Thai, a political party linked to Thaksin, told AFP, asking not to be named. It is believed he contracted the virus after visiting a food court. Thaksin was ousted from power in a 2006 military coup and fled the country in 2008. He was convicted in Thailand on corruption charges. His sister Yingluck became prime minister in 2011 before being removed in another coup three years later. Revelations of Thaksin's brush with coronavirus coincided with bombshell news US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania have tested positive. Trump has been given an experimental treatment in hospital and has been knocked off the campaign trail just a month ahead of election day. lpm/jah Mayor Balkar Sandhu, who had earlier been targeted by opposition leaders, is now facing criticism from leaders of his own party for not involving councillors of their respective constituencies in committees being formed for different development works. Congress MLA from Ludhiana east, Sanjay Talwar, and in-charge of Atam Nagar constituency, Kamaljit Singh Karwal, have raised objections over the non-inclusion of councillors from their respective constituencies from official tours being organised to study solid waste management and establishment of construction and demolition (C and D) waste plant. While a team of six councillors and MC officials is already on an official tour to Indore to study solid waste management, the mayor and few others councillors along with MC officials are expected to visit Jodhpur to study C and D waste plant on Tuesday. Karwal wrote a letter to the mayor on Monday seeking inclusion of councillors from Atam Nagar constituency in committees. We cannot work for the development of the city by ignoring an entire constituency. If some changes have to be made in the working or a project has to be implemented, the mayor should involve councillors from every constituency. Only then can councillors learn and implement new policies for the betterment of public, the letter stated. MLA Sanjay Talwar MLA Talwar said, There are 14 Congress councillors in the east constituency, but not a single one has been made a part of these committees. Efforts should be made to take up development in the entire city and all constituencies should be considered equally. The mayor represents the entire city and no constituency should be left behind in terms of development. Ludhiana mayor Balkar Sandhu Mayor Balkar Sandhu said that no constituency is being ignored and councillors from East and Atam Nagar constituencies will also be involved in the committees. He added that the list of councillors who will be visiting Jodhpur is not final yet and a councillor from Atam nagar constituency is also being included in the list. This is not the first time that MLA Talwar has raised objection on the working of the mayor. Earlier too, they had been at loggerheads over alleged discrimination while taking up developmental works. . NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Accern Corporation, a leading no-code, artificial intelligence (AI) FinTech company today, announced its recognition in Crain's 2020 Best Places to Work in New York. Following a survey of more than 20,000 employees, Accern was recognized for its commitment to promoting a fulfilling work environment with a great workplace culture, policies, benefits, and continuous growth opportunities. "Our employees and the continuous improvement of our culture at Accern are our top priority," said Kumesh Aroomoogan, Co-Founder and CEO of Accern. "Crain's recognition of Accern's work environment is a testament to our ongoing efforts in creating an exciting, innovative, and fulfilling work culture as we scale to become the enterprise software leader in artificial intelligence (AI). Accern offers generous compensation, home office resources, flexible paid time off, and health benefits that extend beyond legal requirements. The company also encourages programs focused on employees' professional development and team bonding, including a weekly educational series, learning sessions, and weekly company gatherings. Accern also embraces diversity and inclusion with a global team operating across the U.S., India, Morocco, and Canada. To get a glimpse of our offerings and meet the team, visit https://accern.com/careers. "We strive really hard to create an inclusive work culture that focuses on the individual growth of each team member," said Anshul Vikram Pandey, Co-Founder and CTO of Accern. "Great ideas come from team members who feel connected to the cause, so it's extremely important for us to reflect that belief in the way we work and take care of each other." The Best Places to Work in New York City award program identifies and recognizes the city's best employers. Crain's partnered with Best Companies Group, an independent research firm, to survey more than 20,000 employees across all five boroughs. Respondents filled out a form assessing work environment, leadership, company culture, and benefits. Best Companies Group is in charge of managing the entire process from distributing the surveys, analyzing the data, and determining the final rankings. The winners are then published by Crain's New York Business. To view the announcement of the official rankings live, join Crain's highly anticipated virtual event on December 3, 2020. The event will announce the best ranked companies in New York and will highlight the qualities that got them to the top. Register today at http://www.cvent.com/events/2020-best-places-to-work/event-summary-72cb3a9193de42dca1cc170462db3bbb.aspx About Accern: Accern enhances artificial intelligence (AI) workflows for financial service enterprises with a no-code AI platform. Researchers, business analysts, data science teams, and developers use Accern to build and deploy AI use cases powered by adaptive natural language processing (NLP) and forecasting features. The results are that companies cut costs, generate better risk and investment insights, and experience a 24x productivity gain with our industry-leading AI use cases. Allianz, IBM, and Jefferies are utilizing Accern to accelerate innovation. For more information on how we can accelerate AI adoption for your organization, visit accern.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. SOURCE Accern Related Links www.accern.com youtube A Maryland teen is being charged as an adult for the murder of his half-sister after being arrested about 500 miles from the scene of the crime. Stephen Jarrod Davis, 17, was arrested in Springfield, Ohio, around 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Anne Arundel County police said in a statement Sunday. Just hours before, police found Davis' 5-year-old half-sister Anaya Jannah Abdul dead of "apparent trauma" in Pasadena, Maryland. Police said that an autopsy completed on Sunday found Abdul's cause of death to be "multiple sharp force injuries," and her manner of death was ruled a homicide. "As a result of the investigative evidence, homicide detectives were able to obtain an arrest warrant charging Davis as an adult with first degree murder," police said in a statement. RELATED: Okla. Mom Described as Beautiful Soul Is Allegedly Beaten to Death by Husband with 3 Kids Home 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. Davis is currently awaiting extradition back to Maryland, police said, and will not face any additional charges in Ohio. Detectives are "still looking into a motive in this case," as the Anne Arundel County Police Crisis Intervention Team works with responding officers and the victim's family to "provide resources," police said. It was not immediately clear if Davis has legal representation or if has entered a plea at this time. A federal appeals court on Friday reinstated a 2017 jury verdict ordering Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. to pay GlaxoSmithKline Plc $235.5 million for selling a generic version of Glaxos heart drug Coreg. In a 2-1 decision, the U.S. Federal Circuit Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. found substantial evidence that Teva induced doctors to prescribe its generic tablets to treat medical conditions covered by a Glaxo patent. Teva said it was disappointed with the outcome, plans to appeal and introduce additional defenses and neither infringed nor induced doctors to infringe Glaxos patent. Glaxo said it was pleased with the decision. Glaxo had won U.S. approval to market Coreg, whose chemical name is carvedilol, to treat hypertension, left ventricular dysfunction after a heart attack and congestive heart failure. The case arose after Teva began selling a Coreg generic in 2007 with skinny labels indicating treatment for the first two conditions, and was required by the Food and Drug Administration to add congestive heart failure to the labels in 2011. Glaxo, whose patent expired in 2015, sued Teva, and a Delaware jury ordered the Israeli drugmaker to pay $234.1 million for lost profit plus $1.4 million in royalties. U.S. District Judge Leonard Stark overturned the verdict, saying other factors could have caused doctors to prescribe generic Coreg, including for congestive heart failure. But in Fridays decision, Circuit Judge Pauline Newman said promotional materials, press releases, product catalogs, the FDA labels and witness testimony supported the verdict for Tevas induced infringement of Glaxos patent. Chief Judge Sharon Prost dissented, citing Congress desire for efficient procedures to help low-cost generic drugs enter the marketplace. The majoritys holding undermines this purpose by creating infringement liability for any generic entering the market with a skinny label, and by permitting infringement liability for a broader label that itself did not actually cause any direct infringement, she wrote. The case is GlaxoSmithKline LLC et al v Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc, U.S. Federal Circuit Court of Appeals, Nos. 2018-1976, 2018-2023. (Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama, Matthew Lewis and Cynthia Osterman) Topics USA President Donald Trump's condition has continued to improve since being taken to the hospital Friday due to symptoms from a COVID-19 infection, White House physician Sean Conley told reporters on Sunday. Trump remains at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center but Conley said if he "continues to look and feel as well as he does today, our hope is that we can plan for a discharge as early as tomorrow to the White House where he can continue his treatment course." The White House late Sunday released photos that officials said show Trump on a phone call with Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley. It's the second time the White House has released photos in an effort to assure the nation that Trump is in good spirits and able to carry out his presidential work. The president announced early Friday that he and first lady Melania Trump had tested positive for the virus. More than a dozen White House staffers, senior Republican Party officials and members of Congress have also tested positive. The latest news you need to know: Trump left the hospital to drive by supporters gathered in the area. The White House has sent mixed signals about his condition and the timeline of events leading up to his transfer to the hospital. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie checked himself into the hospital Saturday with mild symptoms after testing positive for COVID-19. He did debate prep with Trump and said no one wore masks. "Operation MAGA": The Trump campaign announced Saturday that despite the president's illness, it plans to resume in-person events, leaning on Vice President Pence and Trump's children. Countdown: 30 days until Election Day, three days until the vice presidential debate, 108 days until Inauguration Day, 89 days left in 2020. Got questions about Trump and COVID? Ask us. You can use this form to submit your own. Story continues Voting: See USA TODAY's Voter Guide for information on registering to vote, when your state begins voting and what the candidates think about the issues. President Donald J. Trump participates in a phone call with Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, in his conference room at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. Not shown in the photo also in the room on the call is Chief of Staff Mark Meadows. (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour) Joe Biden tests negative Democratic presidential nominee Joe Bidens campaign announced Sunday night that the Democratic nominee had tested negative for COVID-19. "Vice President Biden underwent PCR testing for COVID-19 today and COVID-19 was not detected, his campaign stated. This is the third time Biden, 77, has tested negative for the coronavirus since he was potentially exposed at the presidential debate on Tuesday, his campaign said. Biden stood more than six feet from President Donald Trump during the debate, which was two days before Trump announced he had tested positive for COVID-19. Some research suggests that infected people may actually be most likely to spread COVID-19 to other individuals during the 48 hours before they start experiencing symptoms. Savannah Behrmann Proud Boys, QAnon supporters at Walter Reed; reports Gavin McInnes, founder of the Proud Boys, was among the Trump supporters gathered outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Saturday, according to CNN reporter D.J. Judd. NBC News reporter Josh Lederman reported at least one person holding a QAnon sign was among Trump's supporters at the facility on Sunday. Trump drew backlash during his presidential debate against Joe Biden for telling the Proud Boys, a known extremist group, to "stand back and stand by." QAnon is a growing, yet baseless, conspiracy theory that falsely alleges the existence of a satanic "deep state" apparatus that supports a child sex trafficking ring. Trump waved at supporters from the back of an SUV on Sunday before returning to the Walter Reed medical center. Jordan Culver Attorney general goes into quarantine Attorney General William Barr, who was last in the same room with President Donald Trump more than a week ago during a reception for Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett, has tested negative for the coronavirus four times since the positive test for Trump and first lady Melania Trump was disclosed early Friday, a Justice Department spokeswoman said. Barr is self-quarantining and is expected to return to the Justice Department by mid-week. Kevin Johnson Trump temporarily leaves hospital to wave at supporters Claiming progress in his personal fight against COVID-19, President Donald Trump ventured outside for a little bit on Sunday to greet supporters who gathered at the hospital before then returning to the facility. Trump, wearing a suit and a mask, waved to supporters from the back seat of an SUV as it passed by the demonstration at the Walter Reed medical center. "It's been a very interesting journey, I learned a lot about COVID," Trump said in a video recorded at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. "I learned it by really going to school. This is the real school. This isn't the let's-read-the-book school, and I get it, and I understand it." VP and second lady test negative again Vice President Mike Pence and second lady Karen Pence were again tested for COVID-19 on Sunday and received negative results, the White House said in a statement. The results are the third negative results the couple have received in the past week since President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump tested positive for coronavirus. Pence is expected to resume normal campaigning this week with no additional preventative measures meant to keep him from getting infected. Pence is also set to debate Democratic vice-presidential candidate Kamala Harris on Wednesday night in Salt Lake City. Biden heads to Miami Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden will travel Monday to Florida for a community meeting and a nationally televised town hall in one of the most critical battleground states. Biden and his wife Jill will visit the Little Haiti Cultural Center in Miami, the campaign announced Sunday. The Bidens will speak in Little Havana about the economy for the Hispanic community during the afternoon. That night, Biden will participate in an 8 p.m. town hall on NBC News from Miami. The visits mark a renewed interest in Florida. Biden and President Donald Trump are running neck-and-neck in the state, within the margin of error of an average of polling, according to the tracking site FiveThirtyEight.com. But Bidens polling among Hispanics in Florida has trailed that of 2016 nominee Hillary Clinton, who lost the state to President Donald Trump. The Obama administrations reopening diplomatic relations with Cuba, while Biden was vice president, was contentious among the population of Cuban emigrants in the state. Biden visited Tampa and Kissimmee three weeks ago. His running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris of California, campaigned in Miami a few days before his visit. Bart Jansen Nearly 3 in 4 say Trump didn't take virus seriously Almost three-quarters of Americans doubt that President Donald Trump took enough precautions against contracting COVID-19, or that he took seriously the threat the virus posed to his health, according to a new ABC News/Ipsos poll. In two separate questions, 72% said that Trump did not take the "risk of contracting the virus seriously enough," nor "the appropriate precautions when it came to his personal health." Forty-three percent of Republicans took a negative view of the presidents statements and preventative measures, compared to 95% of Democrats who thought poorly of his response. Matthew Brown Security adviser: Trump 'firmly in control' Robert OBrien, national security adviser, told CBS News "Face the Nation" that Trump is firmly in control of the government. OBrien refused to discuss a hypothetical about transferring power to Vice President Mike Pence, as happened with former Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush when they were anesthetized for colonoscopies. "Thats not something thats on the table at this point," OBrien said. "Were prepared, OBrien said. "We have a great vice president." OBrien said he would be providing a national security briefing to Trump later Sunday from the White House with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff. "The president is firmly in control," OBrien said. "Im not going to address hypothetical," OBrien said. "We have plans for everything." Bart Jansen VP debate expected to take place as planned Jason Miller, a senior adviser to the Trump campaign, told NBC News "Meet the Press" he had no concerns about Vice President Mike Pence and other surrogates continuing to campaign while the president is hospitalized. Miller said he did not expect a virtual debate when Pence squares off with Democratic vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris in Utah on Wednesday. No, we're in a campaign. We have a month to go. We see Joe Biden and Kamala Harris out there campaigning. Certainly, they're not asking for remote debate, Miller said. Kate Bedingfield, Bidens deputy campaign manager, said on ABC News' "This Week" she expected the vice presidential debate to happen as scheduled Wednesday, so long as the commission makes adjustments for distancing and a mask requirement. "We have every expectation that the debate commission takes all necessary precautions to ensure that everyone who attends the debate is safe," Bedingfield said. "We have every expectation they will do that." Asked about prospects for the Oct. 15 presidential debate, Bedingfield said it will depend on Trumps health, but that Biden is prepared to attend. Bart Jansen Pence's planned campaign appearances worry experts Many health and national security experts are wondering why Vice President Mike Pence is not under isolation to reduce his risk of exposure to the coronavirus while President Donald Trump remains in the hospital with COVID-19. Pence will be in Salt Lake City on Wednesday for the vice presidential debate against Sen. Kamala Harris. Thursday he will travel to Arizona for a rally, kicking off "Operation MAGA" the Trump campaign's return to in-person events after a pause due to the president's illness. Former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta told USA TODAY the administration need to be "prepared to deal with the possibility that an adversary will seek to take advantage" of the situation and that national security agencies must ensure the chain of command is secure. As for the potential risk of Pence spreading the coronavirus, a spokesman for the vice president said he will practice social distancing and noted that he has tested negative. Pence's office also released a statement from his physician saying he did not need to quarantine. But medical experts have said that COVID-19 can take up to 14 days to manifest, which is why they recommend quarantine for individuals who are in close contact with someone who has tested positive for the disease. Ginger Rough, Indianapolis Star Trump previously had stake in drug companies President Donald Trump previously reported that he earned capital gains from Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Gilead Sciences Inc., the manufacturers of two of the medicines he is taking as part of his COVID-19 treatment plan. According to a 2017 financial disclosure form filed with the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, Trump had a capital gain of $50,001 to $100,000 for Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and $100,001 to $1 million for Gilead Sciences Inc. The form notes the information being noted was as of April 15, 2017. Trumps subsequent disclosure forms including his 2020 form signed July 31 did not list Regeneron or Gilead. Trump received a single 8-gram dose of Regeneron's polyclonal antibody cocktail as a precautionary measure, according to his physician Sean Conley. The antibody cocktail is being studied in four late-stage clinical trials and its safety and efficacy have not been fully evaluated by any regulatory authority, the company said on its page. Trump also is taking Gileads Remdesivir. Kelly Tyko Keeping track of test results: What you need to know Who's positive, who's negative: Chris Christie, Kellyanne Conway and Hope Hicks and Bill Stepien are among more than a dozen positives linked to the White House. Ron Johnson, R-Wisc., is the third GOP senator to announce a positive COVID-19 test since Friday. Others were Sens. Mike Lee, R-Utah, and Thom Tillis, R-N.C. Along with Joe and Jill Biden, also testing negative are Mike Pence and wife Karen; Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett; House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Here's our running list. NOTE: A negative test means the person was not infected at the time of testing. The virus' incubation period can be up to 14 days, so a negative test earlier in that time frame does not mean a person was not infected. US records most daily COVID-19 infections in nearly 2 months It's not just the White House dealing with an onslaught of cases: Friday's nationwide case count was the highest daily total in nearly two months. There were 54,441 positive cases of the coronavirus reported on Friday, the highest single-day case count since Aug. 14, when the country recorded just over 64,000 cases, per Johns Hopkins University data. The country's daily cases peaked on July 16, when 77,362 positive tests were reported. Meanwhile, deaths have held relatively steady in recent weeks, as the weekly average is down a bit from a flare-up in late July and early August. On Friday, 906 US deaths from COVID-19 were recorded Friday. Jay Cannon This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump COVID-19 updates: Dr. Conley says president continues to improve Nagorno-Karabakh Public TV company ArtsakhTV released on Sunday (October 4) footage of what is said to be aftermath of heavy shelling going on in the capital of the breakaway region. Eighteen Nagorno-Karabakh civilians were killed by fire from Azeri forces and more than 90 were wounded in the past week, RIA Novosti news agency cited an official in the breakaway region as saying on Sunday. The developments marked a sharp escalation of the war in the South Caucasus. Armenia denied it had directed fire "of any kind" towards Azerbaijan. The leader of Nagorno-Karabakh said his forces had targeted a military airbase in Ganja but later stopped firing in order to avoid civilian casualties. As community members are still reeling from the slaying of Mohamed-Aslim Zafis outside a Rexdale mosque last month, more than two dozen human rights groups are calling for a national action plan to dismantle white supremacist and neo-Nazi groups. This attack did not happen in isolation, reads an open letter released Monday by the National Council of Canadian Muslims, addressed to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. This is attack is one in a long series of a chain of horrifying attacks on racialized communities in Canada. The letter is co-signed by 25 human rights and civil liberties groups, including Amnesty International, the World Sikh Organization, the Canadian Labour Congress and Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs. Zafis, a 58-year-old father and volunteer caretaker, was fatally stabbed outside Etobicokes International Muslim Organization mosque on Sept. 12. He was killed as he sat outside the doors, controlling entry to abide by COVID-19 health regulations. Guilherme William Von Neutegem, 34, was later arrested by Toronto police homicide investigators and charged with first-degree murder. Hours after his arrest, the Canadian Anti-Hate Network, an organization that monitors and reports on hate groups, says it linked the accuseds social media activity to neo-Nazi ideology. According to CAHN which is also a signatory to the letter the posts on multiple accounts with the same name and location as Von Neutegem demonstrate links to a neo-Nazi occult ideology that instructs believers to commit murders. Toronto police said last month that they have not ruled out investigating the homicide as hate-motivated. Von Neutegems arrest and reported ties to white supremacist accounts spurred messages of support from politicians including Trudeau, and has now prompted calls for a federal plan to stop neo-Nazi and white supremacist groups. Faith-based communities, as well as racialized communities, have faced attacks on our homes, our places of worship, our children and our congregants at the hands of white supremacist organizations, the coalition writes in the letter. In a statement last month, Mary-Liz Power, a spokesperson for Public Safety Minister Bill Blair, said white supremacist violence is a tragic reality in Canada and while we have taken significant action as a government to end violence in our communities we also know there is more to do. We are committed to doing that work, said Power. Power noted the Liberal government has worked toward this by listing specific groups as terrorist entities under Canadas Criminal Code. The move helps support possible criminal investigations and the prosecutions of those offences, she said, and financial institutions freeze its assets. Last year, two white supremacist groups were added to the Canadian list of terrorist entities. In the letter released Monday, the rights groups say they appreciate that action, but far more needs to be done. Reported by CAHN and confirmed by the Star, social media accounts linked to a man with the same name and location as Von Neutegem contain white supremacist and neo-Nazi content and rhetoric, including a chant on YouTube that the CAHN describes as a neo-Nazi death ideology and a Twitter account that follows a white supremacist media platform. Insp. Hank Idsinga, who heads the Toronto police homicide squad, said last month that determining hate as a motive is part of the investigative process. Barbara Perry, director of the Centre on Hate, Bias and Extremism based at Ontario Tech University, told the Star that within just the last few years, Canada has seen a dramatic increase in the numbers and activities associated with individuals and groups that are affiliated in some way with the extreme right. With Star files Wendy Gillis is a Toronto-based reporter covering crime and policing for the Star. Reach her by email at wgillis@thestar.ca or follow her on Twitter: @wendygillis First Lady, Mrs. Rebecca Akufo-Addo has paid a working visit to the Okaikoi South constituency in the Greater Accra Region to appeal for more support for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). During her visit, the first lady called on the traditional leaders at Gamantse palace and asked for their blessings to help the NPP retain power in the forthcoming general elections. She urged the electorates to invoke their confidence in President Akufo-Addo and the NPP by voting massively for them in the December polls. She then visited the Kaneshie Polyclinic where her foundation - Rebecca Foundation donated health equipment and consumables to the health officials and also interacted with some of the patients. Mrs. Rebecca Akufo-Addo also visited the Kaneshie market to interact with traders to vote overwhelmingly for the NPP as well as the parliamentary candidate for the constituency in the December polls. During the entire visit, the First Lady received a rousing welcome by the constituents where the four more for Nana mantra was on the lips of each and every one. Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan gave an interview to The New York Times over the ongoing Azerbaijani aggression unleashed against Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh). Armenpress presents the article about the interview: When Nikol Pashinyan, Armenias prime minister, spoke by telephone on Thursday with President Trumps national security adviser, he raised a delicate issue: Why is nothing being done to stop a longtime United States ally, Turkey, from using American-made F-16 jets against Armenians? Mr. Pashinyans call to the national security adviser, Robert OBrien, followed an eruption of heavy fighting in and around Nagorno Karabakh. But the current fighting, Mr. Pashinyan said in a telephone interview, has taken on a far more dangerous dimension because of Turkeys direct military intervention in support of Azerbaijan. The conflict has set off alarms about the risks of a wider war and put the United States, with its large and politically influential Armenian diaspora, in the uncomfortable position of watching Turkey, a NATO member, deploying F-16 jets in support of Armenias enemies. The United States, Mr. Pashinyan said in an interview, needs to explain whether it gave those F-16s to bomb peaceful villages and peaceful populations. He said that Mr. OBrien had heard and acknowledged his concerns. For Armenia, Mr. Pashinyan said, the current fighting, which began Sept. 27 after months of rising tensions, poses an existential threat because of the role of Turkey, whose precursor, the Ottoman Empire, killed an estimated 1.5 million Armenians at the end of World War I. The U.S. Congress and many countries have declared that slaughter a genocide, which Turkey still rejects. A vile man who slept with the dead body of woman who died from coronavirus has been jailed for three years. The man broke into a mortuary to carry out the horrific act. Police in Guyana, South America, arrested the man who then had to spend time in quarantine as he had come into contact with the virus. Leroy Chacon was sentenced to three years imprisonment. The 50-year-old man was charged with and found guilty of committing a s3xual offence on the body of a woman at the mortuary. Chacon, an unemployed resident of Trainline Port Kaituma, North West District appeared before Magistrate Dylon Bess, via zoom to answer to the charge. He pleaded guilty to the charge which stated that on September 26th, at Port Kaituma Hospital Mortuary, he was performing an indecent act on the dead body of a female who died from coronavirus. Follow Us on Facebook @LadunLiadi; Instagram @LadunLiadi; Twitter @LadunLiadi; Youtube @LadunLiadiTV for updates By Jason Lim Korea's young women are dying during the pandemic. Not from the disease but by their own hands. Suicides among young women were up an alarming 17.9 percent in April when Korea imposed strict social distancing measures. The overall suicide rate for people in their late teens and twenties in the first half of 2020 was up by 7 percent from last year. To note, the statistics only record successful suicides, with the consensus that women attempt far more suicides than men they just don't succeed as often. In short, it definitely looks like that there is a parallel pandemic of suicides among young women happening in Korea right now. The Institute for Society and Health's December 2019 report stated that the increase in the suicide rate among millennial women has outpaced that of their male peers by a large margin over the last 20 years. While the mental health diagnosis will likely say depression or anxiety is the cause for attempting suicide, there are structural issues at place that make women especially young women more vulnerable to such mental diseases. Jang Soong-nang, who co-authored the report, says: "Women are disproportionately represented in the low-paying, informal workforce. Women generally feel less safe in public spaces. Over two thirds of women say they have experienced some form of abuse in a relationship Women are more vulnerable to violence, discrimination and poverty." Such structural issues for women have only been worsened by the socioeconomic problems induced by the pandemic. In a way, Korea's statistics are in line with findings from other countries during the pandemic. In August, Japan experienced a whopping 40 percent increase in women committing suicide over the same period last year, prompting Japanese officials to reach out to their counterparts in Korea for pointers. There seems to be a consensus as to the underlying reasons. Women are disproportionately employed in jobs with little stability or employment protection while also bearing the majority of housework and child-rearing duties, as many families have been forced to juggle work and childcare while children have been largely studying from home during the pandemic. Combine this with the sudden loss of personal support systems due to the quarantine, it's not difficult to imagine that the situation could easily have been overwhelming for women who were already at the invisible margins of the socioeconomic strata of Korean society. To add global context, a recent survey done by McKinsey & Company and Lean In shows that more than a quarter of the 40,000 women they surveyed are considering "downshifting their careers or leaving the workforce entirely." Basically, even women who managed to enter into an actual "career track" rather a series of dead-end, temporary jobs are facing an inordinate amount of pressure to sacrifice their professions and go back to their traditional roles as housewife and primary caretaker. To make a bad story worse for Korea, according to the World Economic Forum's 2020 Gender Gap Report, Korean women's Economic Participation and Opportunity Index pegs Korea in the 127th place out of 155 countries surveyed with a score of 0.555, placing it just below Sri Lanka (0.558) and above Senegal (0.552). Put all these together, it basically says that women in Korea, who are worse off in both economic participation and opportunities compared to those in other countries, will likely leave the workplace in much bigger numbers due to the pandemic and be made to feel even more vulnerable than before. This even applies to college-educated women. Inevitably, this will lead to increasing mental illness that will feed into a growing trend of suicide in women and the rapid decrease of talented female workers in Korean society. In other words, this means that more young Korean women will continue to kill themselves for the foreseeable future unless macro trends change their trajectory. And no one knows when that may happen. Good governance is all about influencing the macro trends to optimize the wellbeing of the country's citizens. Facing the suicide pandemic, the only solution is a targeted intervention with a range of measures aimed at preventing the suicide of vulnerable young women. It needs to start with a discovery phase to understand the demographic landscape, followed by analysis specifically designed to address the underlying structural issues that affect the target populations. Basically, a research, response and recovery plan that are tailored to support young women, knowing that pandemics hit genders in different and discriminatory ways. But is the political will there? It's sadly ironic that this is happening against a backdrop of increasing male vs. female hostility among young people that's manifesting itself in public debate and politics. There's currently a huge backlash by Korea's young men against what they see as the unfair advantages that women enjoy in Korea that amount to discrimination against them. This might not seem related to the suicide issue, but politicians wishing to curry favor with the young male voting bloc might not be so keen to look as if they are catering specifically to women's needs, however warranted. Jason Lim (jasonlim@msn.com) is a Washington, D.C.-based expert on innovation, leadership and organizational culture. The new Webex Teams DataParser captures chats, formatting, files and meeting information. 17a-4, LLC has released Webex Teams DataParser in beta for client testing and feedback. DataParser is a leading compliance solution to bring third-party data into any archive. Webex Teams is Ciscos chat and collaboration platform keeping teams connected through messaging, file sharing, whiteboarding and calling. The beta version of Webex Teams DataParser is now available and clients will begin testing this week. The new Webex Teams DataParser captures chats, formatting, files and meeting information. The new module will be added to the already robust supported interface list joining Jabber, Slack, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, Yammer, Symphony, Eikon Messenger, Bloomberg and all other supported interfaces. As with all DataParser interfaces, Webex Teams data is formatted into EMLs with chats threaded into conversations and shared files attached. Weve designed DataParser to ensure full chain-of-custody. One of the largest money management firms was able to prove the integrity of their Bloomberg messages by using 17a-4's chain-of-custody methodology when challenged in court, said Charles Weeden, Managing Partner of 17a-4. DataParser has no impact on the collected data source networks or destination archives. Users chat and collaboration activities are not disrupted by the DataParsers processes and Compliance officers do not have to make changes to eDiscovery procedures. All ingested data sources are fully indexed and searchable via typical eDiscovery queries. All major archiving technologies are supported by DataParser allowing clients to leverage in house resources and keep compliance costs to a minimum. VMs are supported, including AWS and Azure. Message delivery options include the ability to send via SMTP into an archive, to a file location or a mailbox. The third-party data endpoint for clients using Office 365 for archiving is also supported. DataParser offers on-premise and hosted plans. For more information about the upcoming DataParser releases visit 17a-4.com. About 17a-4 LLC: 17a-4 is a compliance services and software company with a focus on solutions to meet regulatory and e-discovery needs of institutional clients. Clients leverage 17a-4s expertise to ensure information infrastructures comply with SEC (Rule 17a-4), FINRA and CFTC (Rule 1.31) regulations. 17a-4 services include Designated Third Party, Books & Records audits, Archive Reviews and assessments of compliant architectures. 17a-4s DataParser is the leading middleware solution for messaging compliance. 17a-4s architecture provides for a single-point in which all e-messaging content may be managed for retention, legal and regulatory holds and e-discovery productions. 17a-4 is based in New York. All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their registered owners. Dr. David Paul Deavel of the University of St. Thomas will present A Frame for Freedom: Submitting to Truth as Creatures of the Creator on Monday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m. through a livestreamed event hosted by the Markets & Morality student organization at Hope College. The public is invited. Admission is free, although advance registration is required. Registration information is available at the events listing at calendar.hope.edu. Out of an abundance of caution due to the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic, there will be no in-person audience. Deavel will frame his presentation in the context of the work of Nobel Prize-winning author Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn (1918-2008), who fought for the freedom of the Russian people during the Soviet regime. Noting that the regime ruled by a combination of lies and brutality, Deavel will argue that the biggest lie the Soviet rulers told themselves and the people was that the old limits of the natural law did not apply. He explains that they defined the good and the true as what was good for the state. The lecture will probe Solzhenitsyns understanding of why it is important for people to recognize their creatureliness. We are not God; we stand under justice and we are bound by truth, Deavel says. Only when we recognize our limits as people and as nations and live not by lies will we find the good society that communist utopias can never even approach. Deavel is editor of Logos: A Journal of Catholic Thought and Culture and a visiting professor at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. The 2013 winner of the Novak Prize, he is co-editor, with Jessica Hooten Wilson, of the book Solzhenitsyn and American Culture: The Russian Soul in the West, forthcoming later this fall. He is also a senior contributor at The Imaginative Conservative, and has written more than 300 articles and reviews in a wide variety of books and popular and scholarly journals, including America, First Things, Journal of Markets & Morality, Library of Law and Liberty, National Review, Nova et Vetera and the Wall Street Journal. His Ph.D. is in historical theology from Fordham University. The event is hosted by the colleges Markets & Morality student organization, and co-sponsored by the Department of Political Science, with additional support from the Acton Institute. Markets & Morality previously co-hosted a visit by Deavel to campus in February for the presentation Taking Advantage of Freedom: What to Do with Liberty When You Have It. The Markets & Morality student organization aims to support and celebrate freedom of expression in the context of the liberal arts by hosting speakers and films on topics spanning the economic, political and cultural aspects of human civilization, with a special concern for human flourishing as understood in Christian perspective. As part of India's contribution to help "friendly neighbour" Myanmar in its fight against COVID-19, Army chief Gen. M M Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Monday handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. Gen. Naravane and Shringla are here on a two-day visit from Sunday to Myanmar with an aim to further expand ties in a range of areas including connectivity, defence and security. The Indian Army chief and the Foreign Secretary along with Ambassador of India to Myanmar, Saurabh Kumar, called on Suu Kyi at Naypyitaw on Monday during which they discussed important bilateral issues, the Indian embassy tweeted. "As part of India's contribution to help a friendly neighbour Myanmar fight against COVID-19", General Naravane and Shringla handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to Suu Kyi, it said in another tweet. The intravenous antiviral drug, Remdesivir, is used to treat COVID-19. US President Donald Trump, who tested positive for COVID-19 last week, is also being administered Remdesivir. The visit by Gen. Naravane and Shringla to Myanmar assumes significance as it comes in the midst of the Indian Army's bitter border standoff with the Chinese military in eastern Ladakh as well restrictions on foreign visits due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is Gen. Naravane's first visit to any foreign country after he took charge as the Chief of Army Staff on December 31 last year. Myanmar is one of India's strategic neighbours and shares a 1,640-km-long border with a number of northeastern states including militancy-hit Nagaland and Manipur. The visit by Gen. Naravane and Shringla came four days after the two countries carried out a detailed review of their ties in a wide range of areas at a virtual meeting held under the framework of India-Myanmar foreign office consultations. In the meeting, Shringla said India and Myanmar are working towards operationalising the Sittwe Port by the first quarter of next year and that the tendering process for 69 bridges proposed under the ambitious India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway will begin soon. Sittwe Port is part of the Kaladan multi-modal transit transport project which is being viewed as India's gateway to Southeast Asia. The port will connect Indias landlocked northeastern region with the Bay of Bengal through Mizoram. In his remarks, Shringla also said that Myanmars handing over of 22 Indian insurgents has been deeply appreciated by India and sends a strong message of "deterrence to inimical elements on both sides." India has been concerned over some militant groups from the North-East region taking shelter in Myanmar. The country has been assuring India that it would not allow any insurgent group to use its territory against India. In June, 2015 the Indian Army had carried out an operation in areas near the Indo-Myanmar against the NSCN (K) militants, days after the ultras had killed 18 Army men in Manipur. The two countries have significantly ramped up defence and security cooperation in the last few years including in the maritime security sphere. India has been assisting Myanmar in developing border areas under an agreement inked in 2012 that provided for granting USD 5 million each year over a period of five years. This MoU has already been extended till 2022. India's development cooperation in Myanmar is estimated at USD 1.4 billion. The two countries are also expanding partnership in the area of energy cooperation. With investments of over USD 1.2 billion, Myanmar has the highest Indian investment in any country in South Asia, a source said. Recently, India approved an investment of over USD 120 million in the Shwe Oil and Gas project. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics Dear Editor: Being a member of the vibrant community of Kingston requires that we lift up each other, and work as a proverbial megaphone for one another. I plan on doing exactly that for Martha Pearson, who wrote the letter I care about all people (Oct. 3 2020). Amen, sister. Black lives matter, the succinct calling card and mission statement of those fighting for racial equity, might indeed be too exclusive. For instance, in highlighting the staggering imbalance of death by police for Black people (more than three times the likelihood of white people, according to a new Harvard study), just think of all the things that are not said. Did you ever realize when someone says Black lives matter, they almost never seem to simultaneously say babies are cute? Do BLM supporters hate babies? Im not sure. But the exclusivity of their mission statement certainly doesnt broach that topic. (A little too convenient, if you ask me). I care about all people, too, and its time we let people know it. Just the other day, when checking out at the store, I was asked if I wanted to donate money for breast cancer research. Appalled by the specificity of the charity, I declined. Do they simply turn a blind eye to colon cancer? Heart attacks? AIDS? By taking BLM in a myopic, purposefully unnuanced manner, it might seem that it makes the world way too small. Counterpoints: Your feigned outrage might be too big, and your heart and mind too small. Deborah McMahon Kingston, N.Y. U.S. President Donald Trump boards Air Force as he departs Washington on campaign travel to participate in the first presidential debate with Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden in Cleveland, Ohio at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, September 29, 2020. With under 30 days to go until Election Day, President Donald Trump's campaign is reshuffling its fundraising efforts while he remains in the hospital after being diagnosed with the coronavirus. Trump's campaign manager, Bill Stepien, who also tested positive for Covid-19, previously announced all of the events featuring the president himself have been either postponed or moved to a virtual setting. Since then, campaign aides have been scrambling to organize virtual and in-person gatherings for donors that paid, in some cases, six-figure checks to privately meet and take a picture with Trump himself, according to people familiar with the matter. These people declined to be named as the changes were still being made. As the president receives treatment at Walter Reed hospital, donors have been encouraged to keep giving and to attend what will likely be virtual events. They are sometimes reassured that they will get a photo with the president at a later date, some of the people noted. Those familiar with the campaign's fundraising efforts say that they have been seeing a surge in contributions, both before Trump was admitted to the hospital and afterward. One of the people explained that on Tuesday, the day of the debate, the campaign raised $16 million, although that total does not include the amount raised during the course of the fiery clash between Trump and Democratic nominee Joe Biden. The Biden campaign raised nearly $10 million during the debate. Another person, who raises money for Trump in the tri-state area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, said that despite the president being sidelined, donors are still flooding the campaign with cash. "I've been dealing with a lot of incoming from donors eager to show their monetary support," this person noted. The campaign has been pushing out fundraising texts and emails to supporters, including one sent out late Sunday which features a video of Trump in his hospital room. "President Trump is a fighter and he will come out of this stronger than before and even more fired up to win," the email reads. "Can we count on you to help secure another victory for President Trump?" The Trump campaign and the Republican National Committee didn't immediately return requests for comment. Trump and the RNC went into September with less cash on hand than Biden and the Democratic National Committee. The overall 2020 election is expected to cost $10.8 billion. Since early September, a study by the Wesleyan Media Project shows Biden's campaign has outspent Trump's both on TV and digital ads. Biden is ahead of Trump nationally by 14 points, according to an NBC News/ Wall Street Journal poll. It's still unclear how much both teams raised last month as disclosure reports are set to be released in the coming weeks. Before announcing early Friday that he had the virus, Trump was planning a West Coast fundraising swing, including in Orange County, California, a wealthy region of the state, the people noted. Now, the tentative plan is to still have the Orange County event, only it's likely to feature surrogates such as South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem and other campaign supporters, they said. Trump went to a fundraising event in Bedminster, New Jersey, last week, even after the White House learned that his longtime advisor Hope Hicks had contracted the virus. After donors found out that that Trump was sick, many panicked and started reaching out to campaign officials for guidance. At least 200 donors attended the event, with some coming from the across the country. Last week, after Trump was admitted to the hospital, the campaign said it would host virtual events until the vice presidential debate on Wednesday, when the in-person events will resume. Vice President Mike Pence is due to lead a rally Thursday in Arizona. Mark Meadows, the president's chief of staff, said the medical team will be deciding later on Monday whether he's discharged. Trump's press secretary, Kayleigh McEnany, announced on Monday that she, too, has the coronavirus. Even before he was diagnosed with the coronavirus, Trump himself has previously conducted very few virtual fundraising events, and has relied on his allies to be special guests as a draw for donors instead, including his economic advisor Larry Kudlow. His eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., has also been a key guest for donors in the past. Sudburys shortage of bus drivers is continuing to ease. On Friday, the Sudbury Student Services Consortium said 11 school bus routes will not be running during the fifth week of school, starting Monday. That compares to 25 for the first week of school. All affected parents were to receive an automated call before the end of the day on Oct. 2, and information about cancelled routes will be posted on the consortiums website at www.businfo.ca. (The bus routes) do not have drivers for the coming academic year. COVID-19 has greatly impacted one local school bus operator, as many of their drivers have decided not to return behind the wheel, the consortium said in a release. The consortium said it is working closely with school bus operators in finding solutions and ensures the public that recruitment efforts are ongoing. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause to parents, students, and schools. Anyone interested in becoming a school bus driver should contact Leuschen Transportation at 705-674-0708. Meanwhile, Public health officials are strongly encouraging Sudbury-area residents to limit Thanksgiving gatherings for the long weekend to members of your own household. This Thanksgiving, I am giving thanks to everyone for the efforts and sacrifices you are making to plan for a COVID-safe celebration and keep the virus at bay, said Dr. Penny Sutcliffe, Medical Officer of Health with Public Health Sudbury & Districts. This is not easy for any of us. Changing traditions is hard as we figure out how to lower risks by going virtual or doing things outdoors; by wearing masks and keeping distance; and by sticking to smaller numbers and just our own households. These are sacrifices for which we all will be thankful in the weeks and months ahead. The safest options are to avoid non-essential travel, limit indoor gatherings to your own household, be outdoors or go virtual, practice physical distancing, and of course, stay away if you have any symptoms, according to Public Health. Anyone who is planning to travel for Thanksgiving should be aware that COVID-19 is circulating at different levels around the province and country. Local cases have been linked to travel within the province and within Canada. The safest options are to stay in the community or region, consider non-travel related celebrations, and decide is the purpose of the trip is worth the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19, the health unit said. No one wants to be the person who gives COVID-19 to their family or friends. Anyone who does travel is reminded to follow all COVID-19 protocols including monitoring yourself for symptoms when you travel and when you return. If you travel internationally, you must self-isolate for 14 days upon return to Canada. Limiting contacts and in-person interactions reduces the risk of spreading COVID-19. Infectious diseases do not take holidays, Public Health said. If you choose to gather, you are strongly advised to stay within your own household for indoor activities such as hosting a dinner. Although private gatherings of up to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors are allowed under provincial legislation, non-essential gatherings of any size should be limited, and everyone is encouraged to limit close contact to household members only. Avoid crowded places where physical distancing is a challenge. Choose to watch sports, events, or movies at home. Choose COVID-safe activities such as preparing family recipes to share with others and delivering them in a way that doesnt involve contact with others. Connecting with friends and loved ones is important and I thank everyone for finding new and creative ways to do so safely, said Dr. Sutcliffe. With case numbers rising to create another wave, we cannot let our guard down. The choices we make today, and in the future, will help keep our schools, workplaces, and communities safe. The Sudbury area has recorded 108 cases of COVID-19, with two deaths. Ontario reported Friday that 732 more people have tested positive for COVID-19, the largest-ever one-day spike in new cases in the province Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced further restrictions targeting restaurants, bars, gyms and event spaces in Ottawa, Toronto and Peel, Ontarios COVID-19 hot spots, effective at midnight. Restaurants, bars and nightclubs in Ottawa and Peel region will have to limit their indoor capacity to 100 customers or fewer, with no more than six people per table. (Toronto has already limited capacity to 75 people.) Every customers name and contact information will have to be collected for contact tracing. At gyms and fitness centres, the facility can only allow up to 50 people inside at one time, and group fitness classes can include no more than 10 people. Meeting and event spaces will also have to limit tables to six people, and overall capacity to 50 people. Were in a second wave of COVID-19, and as premier, its my duty to protect the people, said Ford. He also announced that effective Saturday, mask-wearing will be mandatory in indoor, public settings across the whole province. Ontario is also ditching its social circle concept, for now, and instead is urging everyone to stay two metres away from those they dont live with unless you live alone, in which case the province says its OK to consider close contact with another household. The province is also getting ready to release guidance for seniors about how they can minimize their chances of contracting COVID-19, with particular consideration given to upcoming Thanksgiving and Remembrance Day holidays. with files from Canadian Press sud.editorial@sumedia.ca Twitter: @SudburyStar Phuket woman dies after eating young horseshoe crab PHUKET: A local marine life expert has warned people to not eat young horseshoe crabs still in their early stages of development as they may be poisonous, after a woman died from eating a horseshoe crab caught in the mangroves in the Soi King Kaew area in Rassada. animalsdeathnatural-resources By Eakkapop Thongtub Monday 5 October 2020, 07:06PM The horseshoe crab that Ms Wanthana caught and ate. Photo: Courtesy of Somjai Kingwongsa The horseshoe crab that Ms Wanthana caught and ate. Photo: Courtesy of Somjai Kingwongsa The horseshoe crab that Ms Wanthana caught and ate. Photo: Courtesy of Somjai Kingwongsa People should not eat young horseshoe crabs, even if they are cooked, as they might be still poisonous, Son Wongsala, a well known marine life expert in Phuket, told The Phuket News today. People should especially avoid eating horseshoe crabs caught in mangroves, as they have yet to fully develop. Young horseshoe crabs can be identified by their small size and that the tail still has hair, he added. Mr Sons warning follows 46-year-old Wanthana Phutcho, 46, dying yesterday after eating a horseshoe crab that she caught with a friend near Soi King Kaew. Ms Wanthanas mother, Somjai Kingwongsa, 64, explained to reporters today at Samanaksong King Kaew, in Moo 3 Rassada, where her daughters funeral is being held that she and her daughter went foraging for cockles in the mangroves yesterday morning (Oct 4). While collecting the small clams, they also caught three horseshoe crabs and brought them home. Ms Wanthana grilled one of the horseshoe crabs and ate it, Ms Somjai said. Soon after, her daughter started vomiting. She also developed a severe headache and dizziness. Ms Somjai took Ms Wanthana to the Phuket Provincial Hospital in Rassada, but the hospital told her to take her daughter to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where Ms Wanthana was registered to receive state medical treatment. Ms Somjai first took her daughter home, where Ms Wanthanas condition deteriorated quickly. She started turning green, prompting Ms Somjai to call the Narenthorn Emergency hotline 1669 for an ambulance. By the time the ambulance had arrived, Ms Wanthana had already lost consciousness. Attempts to revive her failed, Ms Somjain explained today. Her daughters body was then taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where doctors confirmed that Ms Wanthana had died of poisoning from eating horseshoe crab meat, Ms Somjai said. By PTI MUMBAI: Maharashtra BJP vice president Chitra Wagh on Sunday demanded that Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath take "strict action" against a policeman who held Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra by her clothes at the Delhi-UP border on her way to Hathras. Wagh's stand drew support from Congress leaders who claimed she had not forgotten her "sanskar" despite crossing over to the saffron fold last year. Priyanka Gandhi along with other Congress leaders including her brother Rahul Gandhi was on her way to Hathras on Saturday afternoon to meet the family of a woman who died after she was allegedly gang-raped when the incident occurred at the Delhi-UP border. There were scuffles involving Congress workers and the Gautam Buddh Nagar (Noida) police. In the melee, a helmet-wearing policeman had held the Congress general secretary by her kurta at the DND toll plaza while a crowd surrounded them. In a tweet in Hindi, Wagh said, "How dare a male police officer lay his hand on the clothes of a woman political leader!" Police should always be mindful of their limits, she said. "Yogi Adityanath ji, who believes in the Indian culture, should take strict action against such police officials," she said. Along with her tweet, Wagh also posted a picture of the official holding Priyanka Gandhi by her clothes. Maharashtra Youth Congress chief Satyajit Tambe lauded Wagh's stand. He said Wagh, who quit the NCP to join the BJP last year, had stuck to her "sanskar" despite changing her party. Earlier in the day, the Gautam Buddh Nagar police apologised to Priyanka Gandhi and said it has ordered an inquiry into the incident. Pictures and videos of the incident also surfaced on social media, drawing criticism for the state government and the police. Canadas long-standing open court tradition will be tested Tuesday at the Supreme Court of Canada in a case involving the last will and testament of murdered billionaires Barry and Honey Sherman. In Canada, proceedings and documents in court, including probate matters where wills and estates are dealt with, are typically open to the public. With no notice to the media, the Sherman estate trustees obtained a sealing order on Barry and Honeys estate files in 2018, six months after the murders of the high-profile philanthropists. On one side of the case to be heard in Ottawa Tuesday is the Toronto Star, which will argue that an important pillar of Canadian democracy is the open court system, which fosters public scrutiny of the workings of the court. As it was once phrased in a century-old British case, justice must not only be done, it must be seen to be done. In asking for the court files relating to their estates (the Star reporter) was engaged in a staple of newsgathering accessing Canadas open courts. This principle of openness, constitutionally protected, is foundational to our democracy and critical to the publics confidence in the administration of justice, reads the opening line of the Toronto Stars factum in the case, which will be argued by the newspapers lawyer Iris Fischer. (The reporter) and the Star, as members of the media, were exercising their public interest role as surrogates of the public. On the other side is the Sherman family and the three trustees representing their interests. According to the Sherman court filings in advance of the hearing, their lawyers will argue that the privacy and the safety of the family should trump the open court principle in this case. While the media and the public may be curious about the private testamentary affairs of the Shermans given their wealth and the circumstances of their death, they have no proper interest in the Sealed Materials, the Sherman familys lawyers write in their brief to the court. The general public interest in maintaining court openness cannot outweigh the serious invasion of privacy and grave physical safety risks that the (Sherman trustees and beneficiaries of the estate) will face if the sealed materials are publicly disclosed. The hearing will be streamed live Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. The Sherman lawyers (Chantelle Cseh and Tim Youdan) will argue their case for the first hour. Toronto Star lawyer Fischer will argue the newspapers case for another hour during the morning hearing. Justices of the nine-member court may ask questions of each speaker. Also during the hearing, in shorter segments, a series of intervenors will make arguments, including lawyers from the attorney general ministries in Ontario and British Columbia, the British Columbia and Canadian civil liberties associations, and numerous media groups including Postmedia, CTV, the Globe and Mail, Global News and Citytv, as well as two other groups, the Income Security Advocacy Centre and the HIV and AIDS Legal Clinic Ontario. Barry and Honey Sherman were found dead in their Toronto home on Dec. 15, 2017. The cause of death was ligature neck compression. Toronto homicide detectives have told the Star their probe is active and ongoing, and that they have a theory on the case and an idea of what happened. No charges have been laid. The Stars ongoing investigation has revealed numerous problems with the almost three-year long investigation, including the recent revelation that police did not access Barry Shermans office for four weeks after his death. Barry Sherman was the founder and majority owner of Apotex, the largest generic drug firm in Canada. Shermans net worth was described as $4.7 billion by the international financial press when he died. Insider sources at Apotex and Sherfam (the holding company that owns Apotex) have told the Star Shermans true net worth, including holdings around the world, is roughly $10 billion. As part of its ongoing investigation into the unsolved case, a Star reporter went to look at the Sherman estate files in Toronto in July 2018. (The computer terminal at the University Avenue courthouse indicated the Sherman estates were being probated meaning that the trustees would settle any debts, distribute the proceeds to people or organizations named in the will, and pay what is known as an estate administration tax.) The counter clerk told the Star there was a sealing order on the file, and the clerk said this was unusual. The order had been made by Justice Sean Dunphy of the Ontario Superior Court. The Star reporter brought a motion to unseal the Sherman files. Dunphy rejected the Stars position and sealed the files for two years. In his ruling in August 2018, Dunphy said: I am of the view that the interest of protecting the privacy and dignity of victims of crime and their loved ones is an important one. The degree of intrusion on that privacy and dignity has already been extreme and, I am sure, excruciating, Dunphy said in his written ruling. By the same token, the apprehensions regarding risk, while necessarily speculative in these circumstances, are nevertheless reasonable. Without greater clarity regarding the motive underlying the crimes, it is impossible to acquire confidence that the motive is spent and might not be transported to some other who administers or is the beneficiary of the assets of the deceased. The Star reporter appealed to the Ontario Court of Appeal and on May 8, 2019, a three-justice panel overturned the Dunphy seal, saying there was no basis for a sealing order, and that the Shermans, though stating that there was an apprehension of risk of harm to the beneficiaries, had not put forward any information from the police to corroborate it. In our view, (Justice Dunphys) analysis comes down to the proposition that because the Shermans were murdered by some unknown person or persons, for some unknown motive, individuals named as beneficiaries in their estates or as administrators of their estates are at risk of serious physical harm. With respect, the suggestion that the beneficiaries and trustees are somehow at risk because the Shermans were murdered is not an inference, but is speculation. It provides no basis for a sealing order, the court ruled. The Sherman trustees then sought leave to appeal that ruling at Canadas highest court. Leave was granted, leading to Tuesdays hearing. Due to COVID-19 and restrictions on gatherings, no members of the public will be allowed into the court, and only a few lawyers at a time, along with the justices on the bench. The Stars interest in the estate court files is also related to questions that have been raised about the existence and content of the wills. Friends and family of the Shermans first told the Star that Honey did not have a will, and Barrys was a simple will that left everything to the four children, Jonathon, Lauren, Alexandra and Kaelen, plus a proviso that grandchildren could, at the pleasure of the trustees, be given some money. (Recently, a Honey Sherman confidante told the Star that Honey said in the weeks before her death that she was making a change to her will.) Kevin Donovan is the Stars chief investigative reporter based in Toronto. He can be reached at 416-312-3503 or via email: kdonovan@thestar.ca Read more about: Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) speaks during a confirmation hearing before Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs at Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington, on May 5, 2020. (Alex Wong/Getty Images) Sen. Toomey Announces Retirement, Wont Seek Office in 2022 Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) said that hell retire from the U.S. Senate at the end of his current term, and wont seek any political office in 2022. I will not be running for reelection in 2022 and I will not be running for governor, Toomey said Oct. 5. I will serve out the remainder of my term. The Pennsylvania senator said, My plan is to go back to the private sector. During his announcement in a press conference in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Toomey highlighted his willingness to work with Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) Across Pennsylvania, Senator Casey and I have developed a great working relationship, he said. He and I together have outpaced every other divided delegation in the Senate in the category of filling vacancies on the federal bench. Weve done so with some wonderfully talented people across Pennsylvania. Toomey also says the Senate should move ahead with the confirmation of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court after her nomination by President Donald Trump. He highlighted the presidents obligation to nominate a justice. It has very, very long been the custom in the United States that when the two organs of government responsible for the Supreme Court, for populating the court, that is to say, the president who nominates and the Senate that confirms, when those two institutions are led by the same party, then nominees are confirmed whether it is a presidential year or not, he said. During his final two years in office, Toomey said he will work as hard as I possibly can, adding: I will have the luxury in a way of not having a campaign to manage at the same time. Toomey narrowly won reelection in 2016, the same year that Trump won Pennsylvania. The reasons why I have reached this decision are not political, theyre personal, Toomey added. Eighteen years is a long time, he said. And Ive spent little time as I can in Washington but it still ends up being a lot of time away from home. And Im looking forward to more time back at home. There was speculation that Toomey might run for governor of Pennsylvania in 2022, when current Gov. Tom Wolfs second and final term expires. Toomey noted that supporters suggested that he run for the states highest office. The Philadelphia Inquirer first reported on Toomeys decision not to run for reelection or for governor in 2022. Democratic Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, who ran for the Senate in 2016, told Politico that he might run for Toomeys seat, saying, 2022 is wide open. The current Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increasing interest in science, technology, engineering, and math, the so-called STEM subjects, according to Thomas Pietzonka, global head, biotherapeutic & analytical technologies, at pharma giant Novartis. I think in general what Covid has done is definitely sparked the interest in science in the general population again, he told the Irish Independent. There is now an opportunity for companies operating in the pharmaceutical industry to bring the value of what science and research can do to the general public, according to Mr Pietzonka. [If Covid-19] could trigger an interest in science within the larger population and also young people, encouraging them to attend universities to tackle medical, climate change problems, and so forth, that that would be a huge, huge positive outcome of this terrible crisis, he added. While Novartis is not involved in trying to develop a vaccine against Covid-19, as vaccines are no longer an area the company focuses on, it is helping in other ways. Covid-19 is not only a viral disease, it creates a lot of damage in the body in general, it's going into the immune system, which is affected and that's a more our [area of] strength, he said. The company is helping frontline staff with its state-of-the-art therapies in immunology, which it gives to hospitals and tests them in various trials. The aim is to determine if the therapies have any impact on the affect that Covid-19 has on the body. There we have some very interesting first results, which could maybe help in that direction, he said. With experts advising that any vaccine for Covid-19 would take between 12 18 months to develop, Mr Pietzonka says this would be unprecedently quick. Because normally it's about eight to 10 years, which is how long a proper vaccine normally takes to develop. The vaccine is one part and then also you want treatments if you get the disease, and thats where our focus is, he added. In Ireland, Novartis currently employs approximately 1,200 people across two locations in Cork and Dublin. Novartis manufacturing and development is based in Ringaskiddy, county Cork. In 2013 Novartis announced the establishment of a Global Business Services Center in Elm Park, Dublin. President Donald J. Trump works in his conference room at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after testing positive for COVID-19 on October 3, 2020 in Bethesda, Maryland. Joyce N. Boghosian | The White House | Getty Images President Donald Trump should not be discharged from the hospital too soon because Covid-19 can be "very stealthy" and infected patients can "suddenly crash," a medical expert said Monday. "It is a little bit confusing, but by and large, the president looks pretty good," said Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of medicine at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. "So far so good, and we have high hopes for his complete and rapid recovery." "But that said, he's still in a dangerous position. He is 74 years old, he is overweight, he is male. All of those things put him in a more severe category potentially," Schaffner told CNBC's "Street Signs Asia." The coronavirus can be debilitating and is sometimes fatal. The disease has so far infected more than 35 million people worldwide, killing more than 1 million, according to data compiled by the Johns Hopkins University. We know this infection can be very stealthy and kind of fake you out, because you can do well for several days and then suddenly crash. Dr. William Schaffner Professor of medicine Trump announced on Friday that he and first lady Melania Trump tested positive for the coronavirus. He was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center later that day and has been receiving treatment there. His physician, Dr. Sean Conley, said the president had a high fever late Friday morning, and his oxygen saturation level dropped below healthy levels twice on Friday and Saturday. He also said Trump has been administered dexamethasone, a steroid that has been used to treat severe cases of Covid-19, and added that the president could be discharged as early as Monday. 'Not a good idea' Schaffner said he hopes Trump stays in the hospital for a few more days "under the 24-hour-a-day, watchful attention of the staff." "We know this infection can be very stealthy and kind of fake you out, because you can do well for several days and then suddenly crash," he said. If things go sour when he is back in the White House or an emergency happens and they need to take him back to Walter Reed, it would not be good for Trump, he added. "That would not be a good idea. Let's be conservative and take it a day at a time." Infectious period BANGKOK Interpol has issued a new red notice for the fugitive heir to the Red Bull fortune who fled Thailand after his Ferrari struck and killed a police officer in 2012, the police in Thailand said. The notice by the global police agency, its highest-level alert, comes after the police in Thailand reopened the case. The authorities, widely criticized for dropping charges against Vorayuth Yoovidhaya, the grandson of the inventor of the energy drink, are seeking Interpols help in arresting him, a police spokesman said on Monday. We will do whatever it takes to bring him back, said Col. Kissana Phathanacharoen, deputy spokesman for the Royal Thai Police. We have been working around the clock to get him back to the country. OTTAWA - Former Green leader Elizabeth May slammed the New Democrats this morning for refusing stand down their candidate in a coming byelection so the first Black woman elected to lead a federal party in Canada can win a seat. Annamie Paul is the new leader of the Green party after winning on the eighth ballot of the contest Saturday. Paul says she is not surprised none of the other parties will offer whats sometimes called leaders courtesy in the upcoming byelection in Toronto Centre but that she is used to overcoming obstacles. But May says in 2019, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said it was classy for the Greens to stand down so he could win a byelection in suburban Vancouver when a victory for him was not a sure thing. May says Singh should think about that and asks other New Democrats to ask themselves how classy they think it is for their party to try and block Paul. NDP National Director Anne McGrath says the NDP candidate in Toronto Centre was chosen democratically by the party membership and will be on the ballot. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. Read more about: The Unforgotten Families (TUF), a resource of support to the community of families faced with the challenges of caring for a medically fragile child, is celebrating the launch of their website and social media platforms. The new site will be home to the real Unforgotten Families and provides a central, focused and virtual location for educating families on the solution and impact to the community that can be provided through the Family CNA Program. The Family CNA Program is revolutionizing home healthcare by providing medically fragile children with the care they deserve through allowing family members to become trained and certified to care for their loved ones. The Family CNA Program ushers in a new era of home care innovation by offering comprehensive training and support for this medically fragile population. Our Family CNA Program allows family members to be trained, certified caregivers for their loved ones at no cost to the state or family members, states Fred Johnson, President, and CFO of Team Select Home Care, the training company behind The Unforgotten Families. This in turn solves the staffing crisis that often has families receiving partial care or experiencing extended facility/NICU stays pending arrangement of home nursing. The launch of http://www.theunforgottenfamilies.com is vital in linking families to life-saving, life-affirming resources, especially in the time of COVID-19 where the importance of federally qualified healthcare workers is taking center stage. No one can bring the same level of passion and attention to caregiving as a parent can for their own child, stated Johnson. Parents not only provide the highest quality of support but also ensure an on-going continuity of care. For Team Select Home Care, this means humanizing the struggles that families of medically fragile children go through. The average American family spends $284,570 in basic care for a child, but for a family with a medically fragile child that number can almost triple. Common struggles experienced by families with medically fragile children can include financial instability from frequent hospital visits and medical bills, career instability due to parents needing to be on call for children in case their caregiver is unable to visit the home, and relationship strain due to the financial and emotional stress. The family profiles and communal rethinking that will come from the launch of the TUF website will frame, engage, and impact the state-by-state legislation to urgently adopt the program. Currently, the Family CNA program has only been implemented in Colorado where medically fragile children and their families have been participating for over 20 years. To learn more, visit http://www.theunforgottenfamilies.com About The Unforgotten Families (TUF) The Unforgotten Families (TUF) is an awareness campaign created to highlight the many challenges faced by medically fragile children and their families. The TUF campaign is powered by Team Select Home Care and their Family CNA Program which provides improved access to care, increased quality of care, and job creation through allowing family members to be trained, certified caregivers for their loved ones at no cost to the state or family members. No one can bring the same level of passion and attention to caregiving as a parent can for their own child. Parents not only provide the highest quality of support, but also ensure an on-going continuity of care. This solves the nurse staffing crisis, resulting in increased capacity to care for a larger number of medically fragile children. Please visit http://www.theunforgottenfamilies.com for more information. About Team Select Home Care Dedicated to improving the lives of patients through increased health and mobility, Team Select Home Care maintains offices in Arizona, Colorado, Missouri, California, Texas, Illinois, Indiana and New Jersey that provides home health care and other services to their local communities. The company was established in 2008 with the goal of bringing together the most experienced and ethical home health professionals in the industry. For additional information, please visit https://teamselecthh.com. In the central hall of a church, located in a middle-class neighbourhood in the east of the Venezuelan capital, priest Honegger Molina celebrates Mass in front of dozens of parishioners who are wearing face masks. Not even the quarantine in force since March has stopped Molina, of Jesuit formation, who in spite of the presidential order prohibiting gatherings in churches, has carried out Mass in his parish of La Anunciacion del Senor in La Boyera. Many of his colleagues have kept the churches closed for more than six months, a decision that has represented a hard blow to many parishioners in Venezuela, a mainly Catholic country. "That direct contact with God is important to me," said parishioner Luisa Llovera, who attended Mass at the parish of La Anunciacion del Senor. Molina, who also has a degree in journalism and teaches at the School of Social Communication of the Andres Bello Catholic University, took advantage of the pandemic to expand the reach of the Catholic Church through the internet. He used to Instagram, Twitter and Youtube to transmit daily the ecclesiastical ceremonies of his parish, attracting hundreds of followers, mostly people over the age of 40. While many Catholic faithful and other parishioners have had to resort to attending Mass services online, those in La Boyera can experience Mass in person. "We have to comply with these protocols because what is happening to us is something very big (the COVID-19 pandemic) and it is a great responsibility that we have to take care of ourselves and those around us as well," said parishioner Llovera. Molina said in an interview with The Associated Press that not those in Venezuela have joined the online Mass services in the midst of the pandemic, but also many Venezuelans living in other countries, including those who migrated in recent years to escape the brutal crisis in the country. Molina is a native of Canagua, in the western state of Merida, and began in the priesthood 20 years ago. His priesthood career has coincided with the convulsive years that Venezuela has experienced after the arrival of the late President Hugo Chavez (1999-2013) in which relations between the government and the Catholic Church have been very strained. Both Chavez and President Nicolas Maduro have accused the authorities of the Venezuelan Catholic Church of attacking the government with "lies," while the Venezuelan Episcopal Conference has accused Maduro of establishing a "totalitarian system" and seeking to remain in power "at the expense of the suffering of the people." Molina admitted that these two decades have been very complex because the governments of Chavez and Maduro "have given a lot of strength" to various religious cults and sects. While some critics of Molina consider him a priest with a dominant political discourse, one that is of the opposition, others are happy there's a place for them to attend. This story has not been edited by www.republicworld.com and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 23:23:53|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close NUR-SULTAN, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Several Chinese films are being aired on Kazakhstan's Astana TV station through October in honor of the 71st anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), Astana TV's program director Yerbol Begimbetov has said. "The Composer," a China-Kazakhstan co-produced film featuring the life story of late Chinese composer Xian Xinghai, was screened on Oct. 3. The film highlights the friendship between Xian and Kazakh composer Bakhitzhan Baykadamov, who took care of Xian when he was stranded in Alma Ata after the Soviet Union was invaded by Nazi Germany in 1941. Kazakh actress Aruzhan Jazilbekova, the film's heroine, congratulated the Chinese people on the 71st anniversary of the founding of the PRC last week on her Instagram account. She wished every Chinese person good health and new successes in building a modern and prosperous motherland. Begimbetov added that another three Chinese films, namely, "Go LALA Go!", "I Do" and "Driverless," which have been dubbed in the Kazakh language, will be screened this month. Enditem Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 5) Education Secretary Leonor Briones on Monday claimed government's win over the COVID-19 pandemic as over 22 million students from public schools return to school sans face-to-face classes despite the outcry of teachers and parents facing multiple challenges. The Department of Education officially opened academic year 2020-2021 for 47,000 public schools nationwide through blended learning after it rejected appeals for an academic freeze or postponement of school opening. Classes were supposed to open in early June but the start was pushed back twice to October 5 following appeals from teachers, students, parents, and several school officials. However, concerns persist on the safety and accessibility of the new modes of learning. Slow internet connection and lack of gadgets hamper the learning of some children. Because of those issues, some parents chose modular learning, but teachers are burdened with the distribution of printed material not to mention the dangers of COVID-19 infection when they go out to communities. "Today we celebrate a great victory, we declare our victory over COVID-19... We will not allow COVID-19 to destroy our children's education and their future," Briones said during DepEd's online event. She said education cannot be postponed despite the raging COVID-19 crisis. She urged critics to stop the debates on DepEd's decision. "Araw-araw may bagong krisis at bagong pagkukulang. Paghihintayin ba namin kayong magaaral?" she said. "Kahit mahirap, gagawin. Hindi tayo maghihintay. Kailangang ipagpatuloy ang pag-aaral, kailangan igapang natin maski maraming challenges." [Translation: There are crisis and constant challenges. Even if it's hard, we need to do it. We cannot wait any longer. We need to resume classes even if there are challenges.] In an interview with CNN Philippines on Monday, Education Undersecretary Tonisito Umali likewise lauded the opening of the school year. "Napakahusay ng unang araw ng pasukan," he told Newsroom Ngayon. [Translation: It was an excellent first day of classes.] Umali also recognized the challenges still existing for students, including the lack of stable internet connection and the late arrival of learnng modules. He said 207 TV channels and 162 radio stations nationwide have partnered with school division offices to air the modules. He also said the department has issued guidelines for teachers in the grading and assessment of students, as well as a guide for parents helping with their children's lessons. LOOK: DepEd releases calendar, grading guidelines for new school year President Rodrigo Duterte congratulated DepEd for finally opening the school year. He said this could be a start of a wider use of online learning even with the end of the pandemic. "This is a momentous occasion because it is pushing through despite global health crisis due to COVID-19. (It is) a challenging frontier not only for students and teachers, but also for guardians and parents," he said in a recorded message. Lack of Internet connection mar opening day For a teachers' union, the school opening was marred by problems for both teachers and students. Alliance of Concerned Teachers Secretary-General Raymond Basilio said internet connection problems made it hard for teachers to start their classes on time and the reason for the low student attendance on the first day of school. "The Internet connection is as slow as a turtle. Even if there are 24 million students enrolled in both public and private schools for this school year, there are only a few who are able to attend their online classes because of this problem," Basilio told CNN Philippines' Rico Hizon on Monday night. Basilio called out the government to increase the budget allocation of the education sector, as problems in the blended learning method for the new academic year begin to crop up, such as the delayed distribution of the printed modules. Classes will end on June 11, 2021. Expo 2020 will host a virtual event on October 5 and 6, bringing together some of the brightest stars in space travel and exploration to probe the benefits, solutions and challenges of exploring beyond our planets orbit. Open to the public, the virtual event during World Space Week will feature Sarah Al Amiri, UAE Minister of State for Advanced Technology, Chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency and science lead for the Emirates Mars Mission, James L. Green, Chief Scientist at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). It underlines Expos commitment to bring together the worlds most ambitious minds, across 10 thematic weeks, to address some of the greatest challenges facing the planet. Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai Bureau, said: Our theme weeks will draw on Expo 2020s central role in bringing together the worlds brightest, most inquisitive and innovative minds from more than 190 participating nations, to participate in the sharing of knowledge, new ideas and innovations that will stand the test of time. Space, as a resource shared by all humanity, is one of these crucial topics. With the technological advancement of space travel and exploration making the dream of space tourism closer to a reality than ever before, managing it peacefully and equitably requires the concerted international cooperation of all space-faring nations. The event will bring together numerous members of the Expo family, including Expo 2020s participating nations, Official Partners and the general public, who can find out more and get involved on Day 1 and Day 2. It will highlight the latest innovations in space research and travel, while also providing a platform to discuss focus areas including space exploration, governance and law, space data and remote sensing, and the UAEs space landscape. Sarah Al Amiri said: Since its inception some 50 years ago, the UAE has never rested on its past laurels guided instead by our wise leadership in striving to improve across every field. Expo 2020, the first World Expo ever hosted in the region, mirrors these efforts helping to inspire the change-makers and future leaders of tomorrow and bring the world together, in a changed world, to chart a course towards a brighter future for the UAE, the region and the world. Comprising Q&A sessions and panel discussions, the virtual event the first in a series offering a taste of the exciting content and conversations that will take place during Expo 2020 Dubai will also highlight the UAE as an ambitious pioneer in the field of space exploration. It takes place a year ahead of Space Week, one of 10 thematic weeks held during the six months of Expo that will explore collaborative solutions to key pressing issues, including Climate and Biodiversity; Health and Wellness; Urban and Rural Development; and Travel and Connectivity. Space Week during Expo 2020 will also feature space projections and shows that depict the UAEs incredible space journey, held at Al Wasl Plaza the beating heart of the Expo site that features one of the largest 360-degree projection surfaces in the world. The first World Expo to be held in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region, Expo 2020 will serve as a global event, with its expansive thematic programme offering something for everyone, while addressing some of the greatest challenges facing people and the planet. TradeArabia News Service The long-awaited intra-Afghan talks that began in Doha earlier this month have been lauded by observers and participants alike as a significant step toward ending a war that has claimed tens of thousands of Afghan lives and injured countless more. While the process to get to these negotiations has been fraught with difficulty, Afghans -- particularly the millions directly affected by decades of war -- are watching the negotiations closely in the hope they will bring an end to violence while preserving the hard-won progress made over the past two decades. The negotiations involve 41 people, representing both the Afghan government and the Taliban, who must consider the interests and voices of 37 million civilians. In a process where womens rights in particular are crucially on the line, only four of the negotiators are women. Since the U.S.-Taliban agreement was reached in February 2020, much lip service has been paid for an inclusive intra-Afghan process that accounts for the interests and voices of the countrys diverse population. While Afghans have welcomed and participated in nationwide polls and forums, to date there has been no structured pathway to bring their ideas and interests directly to the negotiating table. Only such a pathway can ensure the talks do not devolve into a pie-cutting exercise where the agenda is reduced to allocating positions of power to elite and armed actors, further incentivizing violence as a means for power. Holding the negotiators accountable to the 95 percent of Afghan citizens who are victims and not perpetrators of violence is the optimal route to addressing grievances and minimizing the marginalization that contributes to new dynamics and cycles of violence. In recent years, there has been a sweeping consensus acknowledging that processes designed to be inclusive of women, civil society, youth, cultural, business, and other excluded parties are critical for reaching a lasting and just peace -- a desire shared by the majority of the Afghan people. The evidence reveals that while peace agreements are fragile and imperfect, the processes that remain exclusive and elite-driven only lead to new forms of conflict and violence. Colombias hard-won peace agreement is a case in point. It took several years, with numerous stops and starts and the inclusion of thousands of Colombian citizens at different levels of the talks, to reach an agreement that would end armed conflict, begin to address injustices suffered by all sides, and create a political pathway to resolving their differences. Even if the Colombian agreement remains fragile, reaching it was a remarkable achievement that led to a successful phase of demobilization and disarmament. Afghan citizens are demanding the opportunity to shape the peace process. Since the announcement of the talks in February 2019, there has been a significant and countrywide mobilization by people from all walks of life who want to be heard despite increased levels of violence and targeted assassinations. Broadly, their simple demand is that they have a say in determining their future in a process that has so far taken place outside of their country and has been driven by geopolitical interests. As an example of a recent significant step toward ensuring its interests are represented at the table, Afghan civil society created the Afghanistan Mechanism for Inclusive Peace (AMIP), an open, independent, accessible platform that brings together existing and new initiatives, research, and data from across the country to ensure maximum access and reach in the negotiations. This mechanism is designed, run, and backed by dozens of civil society groups and actors across the country working as a coalition to bring the voices of urban and rural Afghans to the negotiating table. AMIP held a national summit on September 10 organized by its civil society partners representing diverse sectors and communities to mark the start of the intra-Afghan peace negotiations in Doha. The summit brought together over 500 participants from 34 provinces whose recommendations were enshrined in a petition and signed by all participants, stating: We, the representatives of civil society and media throughout Afghanistan, demand a permanent cease-fire, protection of the achievements of the past 19 years, access to justice, ensuring the rights of all people including minorities and victims of war, protection of access to information, freedom of expression, and media. The Afghan discourse about peace is also influenced and shaped by the countrys leaders, activities, a vibrant press, and competing interest groups. Since the announcement of the U.S.-Taliban talks in February 2019, civil society groups across the country have mobilized to have their voices heard. From the Afghan Womens Network to the Helmand Peace Marchers to organizations seeking to place victims of war at the heart of the negotiations, one thing is clear: The people of Afghanistan want to be heard. The long war in Afghanistan is multidimensional, and intra-Afghan talks will be complex, lengthy and difficult, with tough agenda items that must be considered. This is why we must ensure the inclusion of the desires and demands for this historic moment of the Afghan people, who have made it clear they want to live in peace. Let us not squander the chance by excluding the very people whose lives most depend on it. These views are the authors alone and do not represent those of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty. TDT | Manama Information and e-Government Authority has been restructured to do away with the position of Executive Vice President. The decision was announced during the weekly cabinet meeting chaired by HRH the Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa yesterday based on the recommendation of the Civil Service Council. The virtual meeting also recommended transferring three departments from the authority to the Ministry of Interior and one to the Communications regulatory authority. The URL has been copied to your clipboard The code has been copied to your clipboard. Russia's efforts to increase its military presence in Belarus have long run up against resistance from Minsk. Does Alyaksandr Lukashenka's vulnerability amid postelection unrest hand Moscow a chance to big up its boot print in a country bordering three NATO members? RFE/RL senior correspondent Tony Wesolowsky joins host Steve Gutterman to discuss. New Delhi: Amid the ongoing protests and outrage across India against the Hathras gangrape case, another shocking incident has taken place in Bihar's Katihar, where an eighth class student was brutally beaten when she resisted eve-teasing. As per reports, the victim sustained serious injuries and broken bones as the accused rolled the bike over the girl's body several times. The girl was admitted to a private hospital in Patna and was struggling for her life in the Intensive Care Unit for 10 days. She was discharged after over 20 days and is reportedly still critical. The incident took place on September 5 in Muffassil's Chauhan Tola. Zee News in an exclusive conversation with the victim and her family found out that the two of the three accused were her uncle's sons. "Both of them always had wrong intentions and whenever we used to go out together, they always tried to do something wrong with me," the victim told Zee News. She added, "While I was returning home from the market on Teachers' Day, both the accused (Durga Chauhan and Bhola Paswan) rolled their bike over me, and they tried to sexually assault me. I kept resisting." "The villagers then took me to a hospital where I underwent the treatment. Later, I was shifted to a medical college in Sirsa and then referred to Patna where the Patna Police recorded my statement." "There were three people and they are absconding. I've become weak ever since the incident took place. There's a steel rod in my leg, my bones and jaw have been broken." "Please do something Nitish 'Chacha'," said the victim. Zee News also talked to the victim's father who said that he has spent over Rs 8 lakh on her treatment. "Her statement was recorded in Patna where they said they will forward the complaint to Katihar Police Station within 72 hours, but nothing has happened to date," said the victim's father. Katihar's Deputy Superintendent of Police Amar Kant Jha confirmed the news and said that the victim's family didn't file a complaint at the police station immediately and had gone for the treatment. "We have received the statement from Patna and the investigation in the case is continuing on the basis of the complaint. One of the accused, Bhola, has a criminal record and has been apprehended a few days back in a robbery case," said SDPO Jha. "The other two will also be soon arrested," added Jha. Live TV The French government has declared Paris under maximum Covid-19 alert due to alarmingly high infection numbers, meaning bars and cafes may face a forced two-week shutdown from Tuesday. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo is to unveil the conditions on Monday. Restaurants look set to remain open under tightened sanitary protocols. Health Minister Olivier Veran announced on Thursday that only improved Covid-19 infection rates could prevent "total closures" of the city's trademark cafes and bars. France reported a 16,972 new coronavirus cases on Saturday alone, the highest daily number since the country began widespread testing. Figures from the regional health agency ARS show new coronavirus cases remaining above 250 per 100,000 people in Paris, a threshold triggering the maximum alert protocol which has already hit the southern cities Aix-en-Provence and Marseille and their surroundings, as well as the French overseas territory of Guadeloupe. "There is no justification for denial," said the ARS director for the Paris region, Aurelien Rousseau, on Sunday. "The numbers are what they are, and they are weighing heavily," he tweeted. 'Not a done deal' Interior minister Gerald Darmanin acknowledged that the closure of bars and cafes would be "tough" for everyone concerned. "We are French, we love to drink, to eat, to live, to smile and to kiss each other," he told broadcasters LCI and Europe 1 on Sunday. "But we're also doing this because the people want us to," he added. BFM television on Sunday published a poll saying that 61 percent of people living in Paris and its suburbs were in favour of a complete closure of bars, which are currently authorised to remain open until 10 pm. Mayor Hidalgo told reporters on Sunday that "it's not a done deal, there is still work being done, we're still talking". But she also conceded that the health situation was "very serious". Bars targeted The government has said it will target primarily establishments that "serve alcoholic drinks without food". Restaurants have suggested voluntary restrictions such as registering the home addresses of their guests and limiting the number of people at each table. Other large French cities including Lille, Lyon, Grenoble and Toulouse are also hovering near the maximum alert threshold and similar measures as in the capital could be in store for them, too. Employer organisation UMIH, which represents cafes, bars, hotels, restaurants, brasseries and discos, has warned that 15 percent of France's 220,000 establishments in the sector are threatened with bankruptcy because of virus restrictions, with up to 250,000 staff facing unemployment. The government has said it will take every precaution necessary to avoid a new state of emergency that would require a generalised lockdown like the one imposed at the height of the outbreak, from mid-March to mid-May. The country's total death toll from Covid-19 is 32,198 after recording 49 more fatalities on Saturday. (AFP) Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 18:10:59|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close JAKARTA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) has created new combat organizations including a number of joint commands, divisions and task forces within the past five years, Indonesian President Joko Widodo said. The new joint combat divisions include the Division III of the Army's Strategic Reserves Command, the Air Force's Operation Command III, the Navy's Armada III and the third Marine Force, the head of state said at the commemoration of the TNI's 75th anniversary at the State Palace on Monday. The president pointed out that the Indonesian Armed Forces has also set up new joint forces, namely three Joint Regional Defense Commands, three Air Force Drone Squadrons and a TNI's Cyber Force. "The establishment of the TNI's new organizations constitutes the government's commitment to keeping transforming the TNI in order to strongly play its role," Widodo said. The TNI's transformation should be supported by the latest technology and development of personnel who would deal with the technology, he said, adding that the military technology has been developing quickly, and this would influence war tactics and strategies in the future. "Those aspects are developed in anticipation of future combat characters which are believed to have high level distractions," the president added. Enditem On this weeks episode of Working, Isaac Butler spoke with screenwriter and director Phil Alden Robinson, whose movies include Field of Dreams, Sneakers, and The Sum of All Fears They focused on the nine years Robinson spent making Sneakersa film whose 20th anniversary Slate celebrated in 2012. This partial transcript of their conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity. Isaac Butler: Sneakers has an incredible cast, which includes Robert Redford, Sidney Poitier, Dan Aykroyd, River Phoenix, Mary McDonnell, David Strathairn, Ben Kingsley, Stephen Tobolowsky, and James Earl Jones. How did you get that particular group together? Advertisement Phil Alden Robinson: [Co-writers Lawrence Lasker, Walter Parkes, and I] always thought that Bishop was our age, so we had a list of movie stars who were in their early 40s at that time. Robert Redford, being in his mid-50s, wasnt on the list. I was at Kevin Costners Oscar party the night he won for Dances With Wolves, and one of the CAA agents came up to me and said, Hey, Im working really hard trying to get Bob in your movie. I said, Bob who? He said, Redford. I said, What movie? He said, Sneakers. I said, For what role? He said, The lead. I said: No, no, no, no. That character is my age. Its a lot younger. I said: Do me a favor, please dont send it to Bob, I dont want to insult him, because hes one of my idols. Hes an absolute icon, hes a great actor. Hes an important man in the history of Hollywood. Please dont send it to him. He said: Hes read it. He wants to do it. I said, Oh, shit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I went home that night and even though Id had a bunch to drink, I sat up and reread the script, picturing Redford in the role. It was the best version of the movie Id ever imagined. Everything got bigger, funnier, more serious, more poignant. I got up in the morning, and I thought, oh my God, what a great idea. I called Tom Pollock, who was chairman of Universal. I got him out of a meeting with Lew Wasserman and Sid Sheinberg. He was very unhappy to be pulled out of the meeting. I said, Sneakers, Redford. He said, What, you want to send it to him? I said, Hes read it, he wants to do it. He said, Wow. All right, Ill get into it. Advertisement He called [Michael] Ovitz that day, and they started working on a deal. Once we had Bob, it became a lot easier to get everybody else. I knew Sidney a little bit, so I called him up and said, Would you read something? He read it that day and called me back and said, Im in. I knew Danny [Aykroyd] a little bit, and we sent it to him. He said: This is great, I love this. I would be a great Cosmo. I said: No, no, no. I want you to play Mother. He said: No, no, no. Youve got to let me play Cosmo. He said, Ive been hanging out with Jerry Garcia, and Ive got this whole character down. I said, Weve got someone else for Cosmo. He said: I dont care who you have, Ive got to play Cosmo. I said, Were out to Ben Kingsley. He said, OK, Ill play Mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The cast represents a real mix of approaches to acting. Poitier famously studied the Method in New York City in the 50s. Aykroyd comes out of the comedy world. David Strathairn trained as a clown. Ben Kingsley, the RSC. How do you mold that group together into an ensemble? Advertisement Advertisement One of the tricky things that a director has to do is figure out, as quickly as possible, what each actor needs to do their best work, and youve got to adjust your technique to interlock with theirs. Everybody needs something different. Because it was about a group ethic, I wanted everybody, including the crew, to feel that they were part of a family. Almost every day, we would pick someone to sing Happy Birthday to, even though it wasnt their birthday. We did that almost every day. Wed surprise somebody. Advertisement How much rehearsal did you wind up having, and did you wish at the time that you had had more? I think we had a week of half-days. We just divided it up among what I felt would be the most important groups to bring together. It wasnt a lot of what theater people would call rehearsal. It was really get to know you, lets talk about this, and hope for the best. Advertisement Advertisement Lack of rehearsal time is one of the reasons screenplays are so important. Questions have to be answered in the screenplay. As a writer, Im constantly saying to myself: OK, youre on the set, and its not working. The actor turns to you and says, What am I doing here. I sometimes find I havent really answered that question. I dont know, so I have to come up with an answer and make sure its somewhere in the text, so that when youre on the set, you can say something simple like, all you want to do is convince him of this, or all you want to do is get out of the room. All you want to do is make them understand that you feel this way. Advertisement Advertisement Its shocking how often those things are not in the writing. When youre inventing things on the set that should have been in the script, you run the risk of introducing something that does not help you with a payoff or that skews where a character is going. There are unintended consequences that can run you aground. Do you have any idea how many drafts of the script you went through in the nine years you were working on Sneakers? I have thirtysomething on my computer. There were more. There was one point, late in the process, when Walter and Larry said, Lets just do a draft as an experiment. Length be damned. Lets put everything that weve ever written thats any good into one draft. We called that, Sneakers Greatest Hits. It was 180 pages long, but it was full of fantastic stuff, and it rekindled our excitement about certain things. Then Walter said: Now lets do the shortest possible draft. Take out everything that can possibly be taken out. Whats the bare minimum that we need to tell the story? We called that Sneakers Lite. It was 93 pages, moved like a bat out of hell, and it showed us we dont have to have A, B, C, and D, but, boy, we want to put F, G, and H back in. That was really the key to us whittling it down and getting it to that final draft. To listen to the full interview with Phil Alden Robinson, subscribe to Working on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or listen below. COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio counties will be allowed to offer extra options to collect completed absentee ballots, but still only at a single site per county, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose said Monday. LaRose said counties can set up additional drop boxes for completed ballots, as well as drive-through drop-off stations staffed by bipartisan teams of elections workers. But these additional options must be at or outside the county board of elections office, LaRose said in a directive to local elections officials on Monday. LaRoses extra guidance comes shortly before a 12 p.m. deadline set by a federal judge overseeing a federal lawsuit over ballot drop boxes. U.S. District Judge Dan Polster had given LaRose until then to explain why he wouldnt permit Cuyahoga County elections officials to move forward with a plan that sought to sidestep an Aug. 11 order from LaRose that set a limit of one ballot drop box per county. LaRose, a Republican, is the states top elections official. Its possible LaRoses order, issued as a directive to county elections offices on Monday, isnt the final word on the issue, since lawsuits over drop boxes are ongoing. Voting-rights activists, the lawsuit Polster is overseeing, are seeking to force LaRose to allow counties to set up additional secure drop boxes for completed absentee ballots at additional off-site locations. LaRose had signed off on allowing Cuyahoga County elections officials to set up another ballot drop box at a parking lot next to the county elections office in Cleveland. But, he hadnt given a green light to their plans to also set up the voting sites at six libraries throughout the county. Cleveland officials are worried about traffic and other issues as voters drop off whats expected to be a record number of ballots. LaRoses one ballot drop box per county order prompted voting-rights activists and the Ohio Democratic Party to sue in state and federal court, seeking to force LaRose to allow more than one box. Ballot drop boxes and other early-voting procedures have been the subject of lawsuits in states across the country as Republicans and Democrats have fought over whats expected to be a hotly contested Nov. 3 election. Democrats have pushed for more permissive deadlines and collections options for whats expected to be a record number of mail-in ballots, while Republicans have sought to restrict them. Trump has claimed that expanded mail-in voting will result in massive fraud, setting off concerns that hes laying the groundwork to declare the election results illegitimate if he loses. Early voting in Ohio begins on Tuesday, with the first wave of mailed ballots going out to more than 2 million voters who requested them. In-person, early voting at county boards of election in Ohio also will begin Tuesday. There has been a volley of filings and court rulings in recent days over ballot drop boxes in Ohio, both in federal and state courts. The Ohio Republican Party, the Republican National Committee and President Donald Trumps campaign meanwhile have taken LaRoses side, arguing that additional drop boxes would increase the risk of fraud. A panel of three Ohio appeals court judges ruled on Friday that under state law, its up to LaRose to decide whether to allow counties to offer more one ballot drop box. But, ruling on a lawsuit from the Ohio Democratic Party, the 10th District Court of Appeals also overturned a lower courts ruling that would have forced LaRose to allow them. LaRose has said he would support additional drop boxes at extra locations, but said it would require a law change. Two state lawyers representing LaRose in the federal drop box case wrote in a Monday court filing that nothing in Ohio law requires the Secretary to allow one Board to create out of whole cloth an entirely new offsite voting procedure for which there is no statutory basis. They also said Cuyahoga County elections officials arent a party to the drop box lawsuit, and argued that the case shouldnt be expanded to include whether or not their plan should be allowed. Tomorrow, absentee ballots will begin being mailed out to over 2 million Ohioans who requested them and voting starts at 88 early voting locations across the state in what will be the most accessible election in state history, LaRose said in a written statement. Despite predictable partisan politics that attempt to create phony crises, we have kept our eye on the ball and Ohios election officials are ready to administer a safe, secure, and accurate election. Ohio Democratic Party Chairman David Pepper said the ball is in LaRoses court when it comes to ballot drop boxes. He said the state party does not plan to appeal the 10th District Court of Appeals ruling, which means the ballot drop box lawsuit in state courts could be effectively over. LaRose pledged publicly that he would allow expanded drop boxes if he was allowed to under Ohio law, Pepper said. We proved our case, and he lost, showing that drop boxes are permitted in multiple locations in Ohio counties. Now hes going back on his word through this cynical ploy to still only allow drop boxes at a single location for each county -- when other states are rapidly adding them at multiple locations per county." Due to a misinterpretation of a LaRose news release, an earlier version incorrectly reported that LaRose had said counties can offer multiple voting locations. It has been corrected. ZANU PF was forced to abandon primary elections in Kwekwe yesterday after violence broke out at the party district offices, leading to several arrests.Machete-wielding youths stormed polling stations, with rival factions clashing while singing revolutionary songs, forcing the party to abandon the polls. Kandros Mugabe and Energy Ncube were supposed to battle it out for the ticket to represent the party in by-elections to replace the late Kwekwe Central legislator Masango Matambanadzo. Matambanadzo, who won the seat in the July 2018 general elections as a National Patriotic Front candidate, beating Mugabe, died in July. Zanu PF Midlands provincial chairperson Daniel Mackenzie-Ncube confirmed the skirmishes and blamed them on makorokoza. He said the makorokoza were allegedly brought by one of the candidates who now faces disqualification. They (primary elections) did not go well, Mackenzie-Ncube said. Some gold panners came in and overran the polling stations demanding to vote and in the end, we had to call the primary elections off. Most of the panners do not come from the constituency and are unregistered in that constituency while others came from outside the constituency but just wanted to vote. He said the panners demanded to vote, questioning why they were not being given the chance to exercise their right. Mackenzie-Ncube said a report would be prepared for responsible authorities to act, adding that there was the possibility of disqualification of the candidate who would be found guilty of sponsoring the panners. Those responsible will face the full wrath of the law. Quite a number have been arrested now and those responsible will be brought to book and the candidates who are encouraging this will also be brought to book or even disqualified, he added. Well-placed sources said there were gunshots at the party offices as police and soldiers dispersed the machete-welding and sloganeering supporters who were singing revolutionary songs. A Zanu PF branded double-cab vehicle was vandalised in the melee. Police in the city also mounted roadblocks and blocked residents from getting into town in the afternoon.Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Joel Goko said he was not aware of the skirmishes. Im not aware, I spent the whole day at home, he said curtly. The Kwekwe Central primary elections were held despite Health minister Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga on Friday, through Statutory Instrument 225A of 2020, Public Health COVID-19 Prevention, Containment and Treatment) (Amendment) Regulations, 2020 (No 4), suspending the holding of by-elections citing the COVID-19 pandemic. Several by-elections were supposed to be held by December 5, according to a notice by the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission, to replace, mainly, MDC Alliance MPs and councillors recalled by MDC-T leader Thokozani Khupe. The recalls were made after the March 30 Supreme Court ruling that declared her a temporary leader of the opposition party.Thirty-two MDC Alliance MPs have been recalled as well as 165 councillors. Kwekwe is host to thousands of gold panners from different cities and towns who are all in the mining town in search of the yellow metal.Most of them are, however, not registered in the constituency, but have strong links with key political figures. These allegedly include State Security minister Owen Ncube, among others. Yesterday, the party district offices were swamped by protesters chanting revolutionary slogans, with some claiming they were shocked that their names were missing from the voters roll. They alleged an underhand plot by perceived G40 elements to have one of their own as a candidate in the polls. They claimed that Mugabe, who lost to Matambanadzo in the 2018 elections, was a G40 plant, an allegation denied by his backers, who accused Ncubes supporters of making desperate excuses. It also emerged that a group of party supporters, armed with machetes, stormed a polling station in Fitchlea threatening violence on a rival camp, forcing the closure of the polling centre. There were also reports of violence in Chicago suburb, where party supporters also clashed , forcing the voting process to be abandoned. Both camps made accusations and counter-accusations in separate interviews with NewsDay, with the Mugabe camp also claiming a plot to manipulate the process in favour of Ncube. Newsday C inema chain Cineworld has confirmed plans to temporarily close its sites in both the UK and the US after big studios started to delay their major film releases to wait for better audiences. The decision will affect around 45,000 employees in the two countries Cineworlds two main markets. It will shut 127 Cineworld and Picturehouse theatres in the UK from this Thursday, and 536 Regal theatres in the US. Cineworld chief executive Mooky Greidinger said: This is not a decision we made lightly, and we did everything in our power to support safe and sustainable reopenings in all of our markets including meeting, and often exceeding, local health and safety guidelines in our theatres and working constructively with regulators and industry bodies to restore public confidence in our industry. We are especially grateful for and proud of the hard work our employees put in to adapt our theatres to the new protocols and cannot underscore enough how difficult this decision was. Cineworld will continue to monitor the situation closely and will communicate any future plans to resume operations in these markets at the appropriate time, when key markets have more concrete guidance on their reopening status and, in turn, studios are able to bring their pipeline of major releases back to the big screen. Members of staff and unions responded with frustration at the news after Cineworld announced over the weekend that it was considering the closure of all its UK cinemas. A Cineworld staff member, who did not want to be named, said they feel betrayed. Coronavirus hits the UK - In pictures 1 /81 Coronavirus hits the UK - In pictures A deserted Westminster Bridge PA A man wearing a face mask or covering due to the COVID-19 pandemic, walks past customers sat outside a restaurant AFP via Getty Images Boris Johnson addresses the nation on the Coronavirus lockdown Andrew Parsons Runners pass cardboard cutouts of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince William during the London Marathon in London AP An empty escalator at Charing Coss London Underground tube station Jeremy Selwyn Electronic bilboards displays a message warning people to stay home in Sheffield PA A sign is displayed in the window of a student accommodation building following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Mancheste Reuters People take part in a 'We Do Not Consent' rally at Trafalgar Square, organised by Stop New Normal, to protest against coronavirus restrictions, in Londo AP People sing and dance in Leicester Square on the eve on the 10PM curfew Reuters Hearts painted by a team of artists from Upfest are seen in the grass at Queen Square, following the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Bristol Reuters Graffiti reads 'good luck and stay safe', as the number of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases grow around the world, under a bridge in London Reuters A sign is pictured in Soho, amid the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in London Reuters Prime Minister Boris Johnson gestures, during a coronavirus briefing in Downing Street, London AP A person runs past posters with a message of hope, as the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues in Manchester REUTERS Riot police face protesters who took part in a 'We Do Not Consent' rally at Trafalgar Square, organised by Stop New Normal, to protest against coronavirus restrictions in London AP An image of The Queen eith quotes from her broadcast to the UK and the Commonwealth in relation to the Coronavirus epidemic are displayed on lights in London's Piccadilly Circus PA Military vehicles cross Westminster Bridge after members of the 101 Logistic Brigade delivered a consignment of medical masks to St Thomas' hospital Getty Images Durdle Door in Dorset Reuters Captain Tom Moore via Reuters Mia, aged 8, and Jack, aged 5, take part in "PE with Joe" a daily live workout with Joe Wicks on Youtube to help kids stay fit who have to stay indoors due to the Coronavirus outbreak PA An NHS worker reacts at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital during the Clap for our Carers campaign in support of the NHS Reuters Goats which have taken over the deserted streets of Llandudno @AndrewStuart via PA Tobias Weller PA Novikov restaurant in London with its shutters pulled down while the restaurant is closed London Landscapes: Hyde Park and the Serpentine, central London. Matt Writtle A newspaper vendor in Manchester city centre giving away free toilet rolls with every paper bought as shops run low on supplies due to fears over the spread of the coronavirus PA Theo Clay looks out of his window next to his hand-drawn picture of a rainbow in Liverpool, as the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continue Reuters A young man cuts another man's hair on top of a closed hairdresser in Oxford Reuters General view of the new NHS Nightingale Hospital, built to fight against the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in London via Reuters Jason Baird is seen dressed as Spiderman during his daily exercise to cheer up local children in Stockport, as the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues Reuters A woman wearing a face mask walks past Buckingham Palace Getty Images A man holds mobile phone displaying a text message alert sent by the government warning that new rules are in force across the UK and people must stay at home PA Medical staff on the Covid-19 ward at the Neath Port Talbot Hospital, in Wales, as the health services continue their response to the coronavirus outbreak. PA Prime Minister Boris Johnson taking part in a virtual Cabinet meeting with his top team of ministers PA A shopper walks past empty shelves in a Lidl store on in Wallington. After spates of "panic buying" cleared supermarket shelves of items like toilet paper and cleaning products, stores across the UK have introduced limits on purchases during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some have also created special time slots for the elderly and other shoppers vulnerable to the new coronavirus. Getty Images People on a busy tube train in London at rush hour PA Mia, aged 8 and her brother Jack, aged 5 from Essex, continue their school work at home, after being sent home due to the coronavirus PA Children are painting 'Chase the rainbows' artwork and springing up in windows across the country Reuters Social distancing in Primrose Hill Jeremy Selwyn A general view of a locked gate at Anfield, Liverpool as The Premier League has been suspended PA Homeless people in London AFP via Getty Images A piece of art by the artist, known as the Rebel Bear has appeared on a wall on Bank Street in Glasgow. The new addition to Glasgow's street art is capturing the global Coronavirus crisis. The piece features a woman and a man pulling back to give each other a kiss PA The Queen leaves Buckingham Palace, London, for Windsor Castle to socially distance herself amid the coronavirus pandemic PA A general view on Grey street, Newcastle as coronavirus cases grow around the world Reuters Matt Raw, a British national who returned from the coronavirus-hit city of Wuhan in China, leaves quaratine at Arrowe Park Hospital on Merseyside PA Britain's Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty (L) and Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance look on as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson gestures as he speaks during a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) news conference inside 10 Downing Street Reuters The ticket-validation terminals at the tram stop on Edinburgh's Princes Street are cleaned following the coronavirus outbreak. PA Locked school gates at Rockcliffe First School in Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear PA A sign at a Sainsbury's supermarket informs customers that limits have been set on a small number of products as the number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases grow around the world Reuters Jawad Javed delivers coronavirus protection kits that he and his wife have put together to the vulnerable people of their community of Stenhousemuir, between Glasgow and Edinburgh AFP via Getty Images A sign advertising a book titled "How Will We Survive On Earth?" Getty Images A man who appears to be homeless sleeping wearing a mask today in Victoria Jeremy Selwyn A pedestrian walks past graffiti that reads "Diseases are in the City" in Edinburgh AFP via Getty Images Staff from The Lyric Theatre, London inform patrons, as it shuts its doors PA A quiet looking George IV Bridge in Edinburgh PA A quieter than usual British Museum Getty Images A racegoer attends Cheltenham in a fashionable face mask SplashNews.com A commuter wears a face mask at London Bridge Station Jeremy Selwyn A empty restaurant in the Bull Ring Shopping Centre Getty Images A deserted Trafalgar Square in London PA Passengers determined to avoid the coronavirus before leaving the UK arrive at Gatwick Airport Getty Images They told the PA news agency: None of us have been told a single thing yet, so me and my work colleagues are sort of in panic mode right now, wondering whats going to happen to our jobs, especially this close to Christmas. It comes after the studio behind the forthcoming James Bond release No Time To Die, confirmed on Friday that the film would be pushed back again. Union Bectu, which represents staff in the cinema sector, urged filmmakers to think carefully about the impact delayed releases could have on the industry and said: The delay in the release of the Bond film, along with the other delayed releases, has plunged cinema into crisis. British Film Institute (BFI) chief executive Ben Roberts raised concerns about the prospects of the industry as a whole, but emphasised great reasons to visit your local cinema as distributors continue to offer new independent films to audiences. Jessica Swale: We have to encourage people back into cinemas His call to get customers back into seats was echoed by the Government, which promised a package of more than 1.5 billion to help the arts and culture industries recover from the pandemic in July. A spokesman for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said: The Government is supporting cinemas through the VAT cut on tickets and concessions, business rates holiday and bounce-back loans. Independent cinemas are also eligible for a share of 30 million from our unprecedented 1.5 billion culture recovery fund, and funding has started to be allocated already. Cinemas up and down the country are open for business and Covid secure. Loading.... We urge the British public to support their local cinema and save jobs by visiting and enjoying a film in accordance with the guidance. Additional reporting by PA Media. [Read our live updates on President Trumps coronavirus diagnosis.] WASHINGTON President Trump sought to dispel any perception of weakness on Sunday with a surprise and seemingly risky outing from his hospital bed to greet supporters even as his doctors once again rewrote the official narrative of his illness by acknowledging two alarming episodes they had previously not disclosed. The doctors said that Mr. Trumps blood oxygen level dropped twice in the two days after he was diagnosed with the coronavirus, requiring medical intervention, and that he had been put on steroids, suggesting his condition might be more serious than initially described. But they insisted that his situation had improved enough since then that he could be released from the hospital as early as Monday. The acknowledgment of the episodes raised new questions about the credibility of the information provided about the commander in chief of a superpower as he is hospitalized with a disease that has killed more than 209,000 people in the United States. With the president determined not to concede weakness and facing an election in just 30 days, officials acknowledged providing rosy assessments to satisfy their prickly patient. Determined to reassert himself on the political stage on his third day in the hospital, Mr. Trump made an unannounced exit from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in the early evening, climbing into his armored Chevrolet Suburban to ride past supporters holding Trump flags gathered outside the building. Wearing a suit jacket and face mask but no tie, Mr. Trump waved at the crowd through a closed window as his motorcade slowly cruised by before returning him to the hospital. ANN ARBOR, MI - In the first of two Michigan appearances on Monday, Sen. Bernie Sanders campaigned for Joe Biden in the Democratic stronghold of Ann Arbor. Sanders addressed a crowd of 25 people, as well as 50 to 60 standing outside a barrier to promote social distancing, on Oct. 5 outside the Kerrytown Market and Shops building. The event was also streamed live on Bidens campaign page on YouTube. Related: Bernie Sanders to visit Ann Arbor, Macomb County Monday The former Democratic presidential candidate against Biden spoke to about a dozen student political organization leaders from the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University. After wishing President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump a speedy recovery from COVID-19, he focused his speech on motivating students in Washtenaw County to vote and vote early. As wonderful and idealistic as our younger generation is, it has one major political shortcoming. It does not vote in large enough numbers, he said. The voter turnout among young people has improved in the last few years, but it still has a long way to go. Sanders lost Washtenaw County to Biden in the March primary. Among Democratic voters countywide, Biden netted 48,778 votes (47.6%) and Sanders had 46,067 (45%), according to unofficial results from the county clerks office. However, Ann Arbor saw a progressive swing in its local August primary elections, including a win by Eli Savit, whom Sanders endorsed, in the Washtenaw County Prosecutors race. Sanders told the crowd and online listeners that they should be motivated to turn out to oust Trump given the last decade-plus of financial hardships. So today I say to young people, if you are worried about the outrageous level of student debt that many of you have incurred or are incurring, if you are upset about the high cost of college, if you are concerned about low-paying jobs, climate change, sexism, racism, homophobia and religious bigotry, it is not good enough to complain and moan and groan, he said. That doesnt change anything. You have to do something about it, you have to fight back and the first step forward is to vote. Before he spoke, U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Dearborn, opened the event by saying she convinced Sanders to come to Ann Arbor because the rallying cry is Go Blue, a reference to the University of Michigan. She, as well as U-M student Preston Van Alstine, pointed out how Ann Arbor residents can register to vote early at the U-M Museum of Art, or UMMA. It will be open every weekday until 7 p.m., as well as the final two Saturdays of October, according to a Biden press release. Read more: 8 mistakes for Michigan residents to avoid when voting by absentee ballot Van Alstine, who is studying environmental policy, talked about the need for his age group to vote for Biden and then organize after to ensure he hears their concerns, including those about climate change. I came to this university with a promise that if I work hard and get good grades, then Ill have a bright future, he said. We know this is not the reality unless we fix climate change. Biden would be most progressive president since Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Sanders said, despite acknowledging disagreements in policy. Sanders pointed to Bidens policy proposals such as canceling student debt for those making less than $125,000, investing $2 trillion in alternative energy sources and raising minimum wage to $15 an hour. This progressive stance earned criticism from the Trump campaign. Biden differentiated his plan from the Green New Deal, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, during the first Presidential Debate last week, but did also say that the Green New Deal will pay for itself as we move forward. Joe Biden supports Bernie Sanders and the radical lefts Green New Deal that will ban fossil fuels and decimate Michigans auto industry, said Trump Victory spokesman Chris Gustafson. Meanwhile, President Trump is committed to preserving Americas energy independence while creating an economy that ensures a brighter future for the Great Lakes State. While talking about health care coverage, Sanders argued for a Medicare for All plan, but credited Biden for keeping a public option. He will make sure that everyone in America has access to a public option similar to Medicare," he said. "He will lower the eligibility age of Medicare from 65 to 60. He will expand Medicare to cover dental care, eyeglasses and hearing aids. And he will substantially increase funding for community health centers to make sure that millions of Americans get the primary healthcare and mental healthcare that they desperately need. After his Ann Arbor speech, Sanders is heading to Warren for a speech at Macomb Community College at 4:45 p.m. The stop in Macomb County is to try to flip an area that went to Trump in 2016 by nearly 50,000 votes. Read more on MLive: This cannot be a partisan moment, Joe Biden urges during Grand Rapids stop Joe Biden tests negative for coronavirus before events in Grand Rapids Trumps positive COVID-19 test upends final stretch of 2020 presidential race Republican chair Ronna McDaniel reportedly tests positive for coronavirus Joe Bidens Grand Rapids visit targets former Republican stronghold Michigan Senator Gary Peters says no to expanding Supreme Court Trump administration officials swarm Michigan ahead of 2020 election More than 1.6 million voters in Massachusetts applied to vote by mail in the Nov. 3 election, Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth Bill Galvin said Monday. At least 200,000 of those ballots have already gone out 29 days before the presidential election, he said. Local election clerks should expect to get the ballots by Monday so they can send them out to voters, though legally the state has until Friday to get them to the clerks. Voters can also vote in person, either through early voting or on Election Day. Galvin said his office is working with local clerks to move polling places to larger spaces to ensure people have enough room to cast their vote without being exposed to COVID-19. No voter should have to compromise their safety in this election, and I dont believe that anybody will, Galvin said during a news briefing at the Massachusetts State House. Galvin said hes confident any changes in polling places will not affect historically disenfranchised communities, including those who cannot easily get to a polling place farther away. He said he is also working on making sure clerks set up the larger polling places to make them accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Massachusetts drew a record-breaking 1.7 million votes for the states Sept. 1 primary, surpassing the previous record of 1.5 million in 1990. Many of those were believed to be mail-in ballots under the emergency law allowing mail-in ballots to go out to people for fear of contracting COVID-19. Cases are on the rise again in Massachusetts. Health officials reported 626 new positive cases on Sunday, after multiple days with more than 600 new cases per day. Deaths have remained steady with three new coronavirus-linked fatalities reported Sunday. Voters across the state complained that they did not receive their ballots in time and, if they were able to, ended up voting in person for the primary. Galvin said he hopes to see voters receive their mail-in ballots early and send them back early, adding that he has discussed mailing issues during the primary with local postal officials. We believe well have their full cooperation, Galvin said. When asked what they could change or how they can work through service reductions, Galvin said, our expectations are limited. I recognize the local postal officials cant control national policy and hopefully they arent controlled by it, but my experience, which predates the current postmaster general as well as the president, is that most local postal officials have worked with us carefully for many years. He also encouraged local clerks to connect with their local postal workers so they can coordinate mailings. Boston election officials have worked closely with postal service officials for years, Galvin said. Galvin said he expects the voter turnout to exceed the 2016 record of more than 3.3 million. Im looking to maximize the time we now have left, the 29 days, to make sure that everyone who wants to vote has the opportunity to vote in the way they want to vote, Galvin said, and thats the objective. Related Content: ATLANTA The film community is in mourning after actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd was shot and killed in southwest Atlanta, according to police. Byrd, who is well-known for starring in several films by director Spike Lee and also being a Tony Award-nominated stage actor, was found slain early Saturday morning, Atlanta police confirmed to AJC.com. The call came in from the 2200 block of Belvedere Avenue about 1:45 a.m., according to Atlanta police spokesman Officer Anthony Grant. When police arrived at the location, they found Byrd on the ground with multiple gunshot wounds in his back. He was pronounced dead by Grady emergency medical services. Lee lamented Byrds death in a post on Instagram Sunday afternoon. Im so sad to announce the tragic murder of our beloved brother Thomas Jefferson Byrd last night in Atlanta, Georgia, he wrote. Byrd, who was born in Griffin, received a bachelors degree in education at Morris Brown College before studying dance at the California Institute of the Arts. He has starred in numerous films directed by Lee, including Clockers, Bamboozled, Get on the Bus, He Got Game, Red Hook Summer and Sweet Blood of Jesus. In 2003, he was nominated for a Tony Award as best featured actor in the Whoopi Goldberg-Charles S. Dutton revival of Ma Raineys Black Bottom on Broadway. Investigators are not sure what led to the incident and are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the death, Grant said. May we all wish condolences and blessings to his family, Lee said. Priti Patel has been warned against the criminalisation of asylum seekers arriving in the UK by boat as it emerged people-smugglers were exploiting vulnerable migrants in northern France to facilitate Channel crossings. The National Crime Agency (NCA) confirmed it had received intelligence of asylum seekers being forced to work for people-smugglers in northern France. In an investigation funded by The Independents Supporter Programme, migrants said that traffickers had taken their money for the crossing, only to then demand they work for free in order to make the journey to the UK. But despite these concerns, the home secretary appears steadfast. Speaking at the Conservative Party conference on Sunday, she vowed to introduce firm and fair asylum process to stop the abuse of the broken system, and has recently praised the jailing of asylum seekers deemed to have steered boats, while the head of the taskforce tackling Channel crossings declared that anyone at the helm should expect to be arrested on arrival. Campaigners have warned of the risk of criminalising the persecuted with the arrests. Suspected victims of modern slavery should legally be passed to the National Referral Mechanism for support, rather than arrested. According to the NCA, there have been 87 arrests linked to Channel crossings, the majority of them relating to steering boats. Migrants are being identified by army-operated drones surveilling the Channel. Steve Dann, the Home Offices deputy clandestine Channel threat commander, told a press conference on Wednesday that people who steered boats made up the bulk of 87 arrests linked to Channel crossings. How to support truly independent investigations This article was funded by our supporters. If you would like to see more of this important work, please make a contribution There are a lot more of those cases coming through the courts, he added. This is not just about waiting until they arrive here and launching an investigation, we are using aerial assets to identify the pilots of these vessels. A Yemeni man, who did not want to be named for fear of reprisals, said he had been made to prepare boats for two weeks after paying a smuggler 3,000 for passage to the UK earlier this year. They took our money, they used us to work for free, they threatened us, he said. [The smuggler] told me, I can kill you here, no one will identify me and I will escape. He took videos of me and of my friends while we were preparing boats for other journeys. He said, I could now accuse you of being a smuggler, you could be in jail. He made me work for him for free to prepare the boat, to prepare the engine. It was the most dangerous two weeks in my life, I couldn't sleep, I was crying day and night. I couldnt complain to others because he had video and photos of me and others and my friends. Another asylum seeker, from Iran, described smugglers as like a mafia in the Dunkirk area. Among the people [migrants], they get people working for them, he told The Independent. Almost 7,000 asylum seekers are believed to have reached the UK on small boats so far this year and September was the busiest month yet, despite Priti Patel vowing to make crossings unviable. A spokesperson for the NCA which is accountable to the home secretary said the relationship between facilitator and migrant can be exploitative, adding: Migrants are sometimes coerced or controlled by criminal gangs, who treat them as a commodity to be profited from. Gangs will use tools like debt bondage and threats of violence to keep their customers under their control. Altaib Mobarak, a 43-year-old Sudanese man, was jailed for two years in August for facilitating illegal entry into the UK. Priti Patel in Dover as government faces criticism over migrant crossing crisis In September, Rebwar Ahmed, a 36-year-old Iraqi man, was jailed for two years and seven months for assisting unlawful immigration. Both men had been filmed by drones while steering a dinghy carrying fellow asylum seekers, and admitted the offence. Dan OMahoney, the clandestine Channel threat commander, said: These dangerous crossings are only possible if someone is willing to drive the boat. If you are prepared to take the helm, you can expect to be arrested when you arrive in the UK and prosecuted. The Detention Action campaign group said the cases damaged the UKs proud tradition of offering protection. Acting campaigns manager Izzie McIntosh added: We must guard against it becoming a shameful story of criminalising the persecuted. What are the safeguards for ensuring that people pursuing their legal right to claim asylum are not treated as people-smuggling criminals? Priti Patel has vowed to crack down on people-smugglers (AFP via Getty Images) If the Home Office is going to proudly advertise criminal convictions such as these, they must answer this question. This week it also emerged that the Home Office was considering plans including barriers to stop dinghies in the Channel and even wave machines to push back boats. The departments permanent secretary, Matthew Rycroft, told MPs this week that all options were on the table. Speaking about the convictions, Ms Patel said: These people are criminals and anyone people-smuggling should be in no doubt that we will ensure they face the consequences of their actions. The NCA said it was leading a taskforce targeting people-smugglers, which includes immigration enforcement, the Border Force and police. A Home Office spokesperson said the courts have already shown that individuals will be sentenced for facilitating a criminal trade, adding that a judge had dismissed a defence made on humanitarian grounds. This article was funded by our supporters. If you would like to help fund more investigations, please make a contribution India, Sri Lanka and Maldives: Southern Indian Ocean: Securing a common fisheries policy for India and the littoral states October 05,2020 | Source: Daily FT The Indian Ocean provides a dependency for its Island and coastal nations on their economic and commercial prosperity. Deep sea fishing policies in South Indian Ocean fisheries nations offer excellent scope with more than 20 million population of the Indian subcontinent neighbourhood like Sri Lanka and Maldives along with Indias coastal states. A strong ocean policy founded on common strategic partnerships will be a boon to the regions nations for their growth of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Therefore fisheries as an economic livelihood is particularly evident in the Southern Indian Ocean coastal nations. Fisheries governance is thus vital for the potential to boost economic growth for these neighbouring countries that share the vast expanses of sea spaces. Indias National Fisheries Policy The waters of the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal meet in Kanyakumari, a small coastal city in the southern tip of the country. Its geographic location provides access to squander sea assets in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay territory. In this way, on a more central level, Indian Blue Economy Vision of 2025 will bridle the interest for sea-food consumption in the years to come. These people-centric ocean policies will especially benefit Indias 14 coastal states Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, the islands of Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar, and the many other villages that depend on fisheries-related activities. At present it is an ideal opportunity to reflect and amend the National Fisheries Policy as it is a source of livelihood for more than 20 million fishermen and fish ranchers. This sector contributes Indian Rupees 1.75 trillion every year to the national GDP. Fisheries advancement in Sri Lanka In the course of recent decades Sri Lankas fisheries policy initiatives has fortified its emphasis on Ocean resources management. As a procedure for fisheries advancement in Sri Lankas Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), a Five-Year Fishery Development Plan was dispatched in 1979, pointed towards expanding fish production and raising the income of coastal fisherman. In Sri Lanka, over 2.7 million fishermen from 15 coastal regions rely upon fisheries for their livelihood. They add to a yearly assessed fish catch of 530,920 metric tons accounting for 1.3% of the countrys Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Total number of working fishing boats in year 2016 was accounted for over 60,000. There is ample scope of increasing production by wandering into more profound waters of the EEZ, which holds a capability of increasing of many folds in fisheries harnessing capacities. Sri Lanka needs to further undertake scientific research and studies of special oceanographic features of the Indian Ocean for the benefit of this sector. Fisheries advancement in the Maldives Historically Maldivian fisheries which contribute 11% to the GDP of the islands economy (FAO) is the second biggest industry in the island country. Statistics reveal that Maldives has an annual fish catch over 48,399 metric tons. The reasons for the increase in fish harvest are due to its geographical setting in the Indian Ocean and the mechanisation of the traditional sailing boats in the mid-70s. Hence the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) plays a vital part in the island nations fisheries improvements. Taking the Maldivian national fisheries plans forward the Maldives Industrial Fishing Corporation (MIFCO) standardised the export oriented fisheries products. Laws and regulations on the ocean The allowable framework administering uses of the sea by individual states was classified in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 1982 and UN Fish Stocks Agreement in 1999. The consolidated EEZ of the three neighbouring nations, India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives, could be roughly 3.887 million sq. km. Consequently, each costal states regional ocean limit is 200 nautical miles from its gauge known as the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Glancing back at probably the most remarkable treaties signed by the neighbouring nations, the 1974 and 1976 arrangements delineating the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) between Sri Lanka and India was one of the huge discretionary grinders that reshaped Indias sea strategy with its southern neighbours. Lately, a prominent fisheries agreement for India was the Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement (SIOFA) marked in mid-2006 and upheld in 2012. Fisheries: India and Southern Littoral States The Indian subcontinent neighbourhood like Sri Lanka and Maldives has the most heavily utilised and impacted coastal region in the South. The neighbouring Southern Indian Ocean littoral states along with the Indian coastal states must purse a strong ocean policy based on common strategic interests. This could be a step in shaping the direction for a fisheries governance framework in the Southern Indian Ocean. Hence binding this diplomacy between India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives thereby helps in securing a common fisheries policy for India and the littoral states. BBC (Translated by RAWA), September 30, 2020 Local officials of Faryab province in the north of Afghanistan, has confirmed that a pregnant women in Pashtun Kot district which is a Taliban- controlled area, was first taken out of car and then shot dead by unidentified gunmen in front of her two kids. Karim Yurash, the spokesperson of the Faryab provincial police command, told BBC that the woman was about 30 years old. he motive behind the murder is still unknown and Faryab police has announced the start of investigation.Zabihullah Jawad, head of Human Rights Commission in Faryab province also confirmed to BBC that the woman had been shot.As Mr. Jawad explained, the woman is resident of Balkh province and had come to Maimana a few days ago to visit her relatives. He also confirmed that women has been shot by masked gunmen.Mr. Jawad added that investigation by the Afghanistan Human Rights commission showed that she was pregnant. He also said that Jamilas husband is a soldier of Afghan National Army and this may be one of the reasons for her murder.No individual or group has yet accepted the responsibility for shooting this woman. But shooting women and the relatives of security forces is not unprecedented. Officials in Badakhshan provinces had previously said that Taliban had attacked two women with this indictment that their husbands are police officers. They killed one of the women and wounded the other. Officials of the Afghanistan Human Rights Commission in Faryab are deeply concerned of the increasing number of murders of women in this province. Zabihullah Jawad, head of the office said, in past eight months, 28 murders of women has registered in the office of Human Rights Commission and most of them has been shot. He expressed concern that the perpetrators of these murders have not been arrested. GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- Grand Rapids police officials hope to start transitioning all patrol officers into community policing specialists early next year. The move is part of a broader set of strategies to decrease crime, increase community-policing efforts and build community trust over the next three years. The tactics, as well as their associated, estimated timelines, were outlined in the Grand Rapids Police Departments recently finalized strategic plan. Working in partnership with the community, we have developed a plan that will change how policing is done in Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Payne said in a Sept. 28 statement about the plan. I feel strongly that our plan provides our personnel the necessary framework to nurture a culture of service, not only for today, but for generations to come. Related: Grand Rapids police release draft strategic plan aimed at community policing, crime reduction Payne unveiled a draft version of the plan on Aug. 11. Following revisions and a public comment period, the chief presented a finalized version Sept. 29. The plan drew high marks and praise from the citys elected leaders. Most of the revisions pertained to rewording the strategies and action steps or expanding on them. Some of the bigger additions include disaggregating data that is publicly reported online by race, geography, gender and more to the extent possible. Another was a pledge for an invitation to LINC UP, Urban Core Collective and the NAACP of Grand Rapids to meet with the chief on at least a quarterly basis. The three organizations at times have been critical of the departments relationship with the community. The majority of actions in the plan are accomplishable without further funding. About 14 of them require additional funding to the police department. The finalized plan, as well as full timeline, can be found here. The 18-page plan lays out potential actions to be taken over the next three years with regards to safety, innovation and engagement and how to track their outcomes. The finalized plan includes timelines targeted for implementing the actions. Because the timelines are broken down by fiscal year quarter and not specific month, the start dates used in this report reference the months of the quarter the department aims to start implementing an action. Many of the items include multiple outlined steps preceding the start date of specific initiatives. Not all are mentioned here. Here are a few highlights: Launch a pilot program where officers co-respond to incidents with mental and behavioral health workers. Specific incident types for this co-response include but arent limited to those pertaining to mental health issues and non-violent substance abuse. More funding is needed for the initiative. Planned start between July and September 2021. Evaluate the legality of using drones as first responders. If approved and funding is secured, initiate a pilot program between July and September 2021. Work with community groups to recruit officers that represent the citys demographics. Planned start date between October and December 2020. Launch a Community Assistance Team of non-sworn personnel to assist beat officers with neighborhood concerns that arent criminal. More funding is needed. Planned start between April and June 2021. Transition every patrol officer to being community policing specialists, focusing on crime prevention, quality of life improvements and community trust. Start between January and March 2021. Transition all parking enforcement from police to non-sworn city employees. Planned start date between October and December 2020. Use data and community input to target hot spots of criminal activity. Planned start between January and March 2021. Ensure a guardian culture and impartial policing philosophy in the department. More funding is needed for training. Planned start date between January and March 2021. Identify funding sources and personnel needed to operate Real Time Crime Center with access to public space video with active monitoring. Planned start between October and December 2021. Increase the amount of time for officers to engage with community. Planned start between January and March 2021. Read more: Kent County urges residents to follow coronavirus safety measures amid statewide order confusion Meijer looks to expand products from underrepresented business owners State regulators plan to fine manufacturer $115K for chemical fires, gas clouds Union Minister of Commerce and Industry & Railways Piyush Goyal virtually addressed the 74th annual session of Hindustan Chamber of Commerce. He said that together business & Government are working towards a better future for marginalised section of society or those who have been deprived of the benefits of 73 years of independence. The Minister said that this has been a period where the true resilience of Indian businesses has been put to test. The whole world recognises the phenomenal work India has taken in fight against the pandemic and in rapid recovery. India's abilities to become self-reliant, expand scale of operation, introduce good manufacturing practices & improve quality are all being recognised by world, he added. Talking about the economic revival, the Minister said that so many data points indicate that the worst is over. The merchandise exports in September this year are 5% more than the last year, GST collections are up by 4% over the corresponding period, and railway carried 15% more freight. Assuring that the Government is committed to ensuring the recovery of all our businesses, Goyal said that it is the collective effort of industry & the Govt that has helped us come back to the recovery phase. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) (Alliance News) - The following is a round-up of London-listed company director and manager changes announced on Monday and not separately reported by Alliance News: Carclo PLC - plastic parts manufacturer - Company, its bank and pension trustees, as part of tripartite agreement, re-evaluated management structure. Board decides that due to it only having two operating divisions, it no longer needs a chief executive officer. CEO Anthony Collins will step down with immediate effect. Nick Sanders to assume role of executive chair with immediate effect. Pebble Beach Systems Group PLC - Weybridge-based software firm - Names David Dewhurst as chief financial officer with immediate effect. He was formerly finance director of Next Fifteen Communications Group PLC. Morses Club PLC - financial service provider - Names Graeme Campbell as chief financial officer from October 12. Campbell was formerly CFO of BrightHouse, a provider of rent-to-own and cash lending services. Morses says Interim CFO Andy Thomson to remain at executive level to aid handover, before re-assuming non-executive role. Costain Group PLC - infrastructure construction firm - Chief financial officer Tony Bickerstaff to step down at end of November, rounding off 14 year stint at company. Golden Rock Global PLC - special purpose acquisition company eyeing buy in fintech sector - Says Sanjay Nath to leave board on November 5. Kerry Group PLC - Irish nutrition company - Names Emer Gilvarry as non-executive director, with effect November 1. Gilvarry is currently a non-executive at Greencoat Renewables PLC. By Eric Cunha; ericcunha@alliancenews.com Copyright 2020 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved. The overseas organisation in a letter to the consulate has said that a polarising figure like him should not find a safe haven in Europe Several organisations of Indians overseas, including in Europe, have called for the removal of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Tejasvi Surya from the panel of speakers at a start-up conference organised by the Indian consulate in Germanys Hamburg. As per TwoCircles.net, the groups, in a letter to the consulate, said a polarising figure like Surya "should not find a safe haven" in Europe. According to HuffPost, India Solidarity Germany, The Humanism Project, Solidarity Belgium, Indians Against CAA, NRC and NPR Finland, Bharath Democracy Watch, Indian Alliance Paris, and Foundation The London Story were among the signatories of the letter dated 2 October. The letter read, "Tejaswi Surya clearly has a divisive agenda against the communities that are not Hindu. This agenda is in contravention of the European ethos of equality, diversity, and inclusivity." The letter asked the consulate to instead invite speakers of "diverse backgrounds and experiences" and remain true to the European values of inclusiveness, diversity, and human rights for all. It also cites the conventions of the European Union and United Nations such an invitation would go against. The BJP MP is among 10 speakers lined up for the startup conference, which aims to bolster economic relations between India and Hamburg, reported TheWire. The signatories also expressed concern that Surya was invited to an event that appears to be inclusive for Indians of all faiths. They also dubbed Suryas views as polarising, abhorrent and dehumanising and questioned the consulates choice in inviting him as a speaker, as per HuffPost. [Tejasvi] Suryas highly controversial and communal views are publicly available. Does the consulate also endorse his following views where he openly plays communal-politics and calls for the government to favour a particular religion? The BJP MPs controversial and communal tweets along with the remarks made by him during the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act in Bengaluru were also cited in the letter. Does the consulate also endorse his following views where he openly plays communal-politics and calls for the government to favor a particular religion? the letter asked. The letter also pointed out that Surya believes that anyone opposed to the policies of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is anti-India. One wonders what then is democracy if the voices of Opposition and dissent are stifled, the letter stated. Such statements bring shame to the largest democracy on a global level. The letter asked the consulate to instead invite speakers of "diverse backgrounds and experiences" and remain true to the European values of inclusiveness, diversity, and human rights for all. It also cites the conventions of the European Union and United Nations such an invitation would go against. The signatories further went on to call Surya a bigoted person, and said giving him an official platform to speak in Germany would jeopardise the secular and democratic ethos of Europe. Another old derogatory tweet on Arab women, which had resurfaced on social media in April, was also highlighted by the groups. The tweet by the Bangalore South Lok Sabha MP, dated 23 March, 2015, read, "95% of Arab women have never had an orgasm in the last few hundred years! Every mother has produced kids as an act of sex and not love. Surya deleted the tweet after facing flak. Surya, recently appointed the BJP Yuva Morcha chief, recently drew fire for refusing to apologise for his Bengaluru terror epicentre comment which was slammed by the Opposition. The MP, who represents Bengaluru South in Lok Sabha, claimed that Bengaluru has become "an epicentre of terror activities" and said he has requested Union home minister Amit Shah to set up a permanent division of the National Investigation Agency in the city. With inputs from PTI Jeremy Clarkson suffered a cutlery blunder as he attempted to eat a fry-up while taking COVID-19 precautions on Monday. The presenter, 60, was filmed attempting to cut into a piece of bacon as he enjoyed a fry-up with co-host James May during a break from filming The Grand Tour in Scotland. The star said: 'I broke this fork on my thick piece of bacon, then I broke this one so it's the last fork available. Forking nightmare: Jeremy Clarkson suffered a cutlery blunder as he attempted to eat a fry-up while taking COVID-19 precautions on Monday Jeremy then cut into his bacon as an encouraging James said 'steady, you're gonna do it'. The fork then broke on cue as Jeremy burst into hysterical laughter in the cafe.. A giddy James said: 'You're going to have to eat it with your fingers now!' Oh dear: The presenter, 60, was filmed attempting to cut into a piece of bacon as he enjoyed a fry-up with co-host James May during a break from filming The Grand Tour in Scotland Oh no: The star said: 'I broke this fork on my thick piece of bacon, then I broke this one so it's the last fork available' The Grand Tour was created by Jeremy, James, Richard Hammond and Andy Wilman, conceived after the three hosts left Top Gear. In December, the former Top Gear stars appeared in the first of a series of specials called The Grand Tour Presents: Seamen. The feature-length episode saw the captivating trio head off on an adventure across the waters of Vietnam and Cambodia, where they captain three very different types of vessels. Forkward: The fork then broke on cue as Jeremy burst into hysterical laughter in the cafe Lol: A giddy James said: 'You're going to have to eat it with your fingers now!' as Jeremy cackled In the special, Jeremy, James and Richard headed out on a 800km journey through Vietnam and Cambodia that begins Tonle Sap Lake. During their trip, the trio had to weave their way through a series of challenges and unexpected mishaps as they make their way to the Mekong Delta. To go on this epic adventure, Jeremy headed out on a Vietnam-era PBR (Patrol Boat River), which most famously appeared in Apocalypse Now. And Richard channelled his inner Don Johnson by setting off on a Miami Vice style speedboat, while James headed out on a classic 1939 wooden river cruiser. Refusing to let a global pandemic hold them back, approximately 134 walkers from the Brandon area participated in the CIBC Run for the Cure over the weekend. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Advertisement Advertise With Us Refusing to let a global pandemic hold them back, approximately 134 walkers from the Brandon area participated in the CIBC Run for the Cure over the weekend. By Sunday afternoon, theyd raised approximately $28,270 and walked or ran a total of 616 kilometres. Although they were down approximately 100 participants from their annual average and shy of the $44,000 they usually raise, Brandon and area run co-director Ashley MacDonald said any amount raised is a step in the right direction. "Its definitely a significant amount of money," she said, adding she joins other organizers in being "thrilled" they were able to raise money toward breast cancer research, compassionate support, cancer information services and advocacy through the Canadian Cancer Society. The local effort was on par with what took place nationally, which as of Sunday afternoon raised approximately $8.5 million, which is down from the $17 million they raised last year. The main reason for this years drop in both the number of participants and money raised was the COVID-19 pandemic keeping everyone at home, MacDonald said. Rather than come together for a large community walk/run at the Assiniboine Community College campus on Victoria Avenue, this years participants took part in the event online. They walked or ran the one- or five-kilometre event on their own during the weekend wherever they chose to and tracked their process online. Recognizing the limited sense of unity that comes with people heading out on their own, the national organization hosted a live-streamed opening ceremony on Facebook and YouTube to help get people pumped up about participating. This years event was a learning experience, which MacDonald said she hopes to build upon with next years effort, which will mark its 20th year in Brandon. Although theres "no mistaking the power of an in-person event," she said they might be able to engage more people by offering both an in-person and virtual event next year. There are some people who might prefer the virtual setting due to things like health concerns. By expanding into the virtual realm, she said if theyre able to also host an in-person event, they will "have the ability to reach more people than we ever have before." The Brandon Run for the Cure has raised more than $1.5 million during its first 19 years. tclarke@brandonsun.com Twitter: @TylerClarkeMB Paytm chief executive Vijay Shekhar Sharma said that Google was acting like a government slapping a tax on app developers. Calling the tech giant's accusations of Paytm promoting gambling as "shameful", Sharma said that the American multinational "is a money-collecting, money-siphoning machine". The Paytm founder also claimed that the tech giant was not abiding by Indian laws and its actions are in violation of India's sovereignty. "Digitisation of the country is in jeopardy with Google in charge and Google is not even abiding by Indian laws," Sharma told CNBC-TV18 in an interview. Read: Paytm launches a mini-app store within its own app. During the interview, Sharma alleged that the American firm controls the destiny of Indian start-ups by asking for money to be taken offshore. He opined that if this money was retained within Indian borders, businesses would have grown further. Speaking on the issue of a Paytm store, Sharma said his new 'mini-app store' is not taking a percentage cut for allowing distribution networks. He also appealed to Indian start-ups to come together and stand against the "giant gorilla". Earlier on October 4, Paytm launched its own Android Mini App Store as a direct competitor to Google. Through this new addition, the Noida-based fintech company is claiming to support Indian app developers. As of now, more than 300 app-based service providers such as Decathlon, Ola, Park+, Rapido, Netmeds, 1MG and Domino's Pizza have joined in Paytm's mini-app store. Currently, it has been running in beta with select users. Prior to the launch of its Android Mini App Store, Paytm had been on a collision course with Google since September 18, when the tech giant removed Paytm from the Play Store for a few hours . The American firm had at that time claimed that Paytm's apps were removed as it violated Googles gambling and betting policies. When Tommy Sexton broke down and told his mother he had AIDS, his mother Sara couldnt wipe one thought out of her head. All I could think of was hes going to die, she recalled in 2006. I couldnt get past that. But she told her son not to worry, and supported him to the very end. Sara Sextons death in February of this year marked the passing of a painful legacy in Newfoundland and Labrador, one it shared with the rest of the world. Well into her 90s, Sara kept a candle burning for those struggling with the disease that took her son a well-loved actor and member of the comedy troupe CODCO from the world in 1993. Within a year of Tommys death, she had already envisioned a local facility for people with AIDS. That vision came to fruition in 2006 when the Tommy Sexton Centre was opened in St. Johns. Backed by government funding, donations and annual fundraisers, the centre offers temporary shelter, counselling, referral services and a needle exchange. When Tommy died at the age of 36, AIDS was not only looked at as a death sentence, but also carried the stigma of being a gay persons disease. The most tragic part is that if Tommy had contracted HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) only a few years later, his chances of survival would have been significantly higher. Gerard Yetman has seen the changing landscape of AIDS since the beginning. Executive director of the AIDS Committee of Newfoundland and Labrador, he remembers when life-saving medications first came on the scene. In the 1990s, most of our cases were young gay men returning home from Toronto and Vancouver to die at home, he told The Telegram Over the last 30 years, weve seen quite a lot of changes, particularly since about 1994-95. Thats when the treatments improved a lot, and mainly because they started the HAART therapy. HAART (Highly active antiretroviral therapy) means people living with HIV/AIDS today often only have to take one pill rather than the 15 or more that were prescribed 25 years ago. Yetman says that in the past five years, treatments for AIDS have become so effective that about 98 per cent of those affected die of other age-related conditions rather than complications from the infection. While there is a preventive daily drug high-risk people can take to decrease the chance of infection called PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis a vaccine for AIDS has so far been elusive. At this point in time, there doesnt seem to be a lot of hope in the area of a vaccine for HIV, Yetman said. Canadian researchers worked on it for eight years before funding dried up, but other labs around the globe are still trying. One of those is a team at Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston, one of a number of U.S.-based labs that paused its pursuit of an AIDS vaccine to work on one for COVID-19. They are now in the final Phase 3 trials under the banner of Moderna Inc. Weve had a lot of incremental improvements over the past several decades on what an HIV vaccine might have to do in order to protect people, but its been very slow and very incremental, Stephen Walsh told The Telegram in August. Walsh, a native of Mount Pearl, says the virus is hard to nail down. HIV is a particularly tough target, he said. We dont like to ascribe intelligence to viruses, but it helps with the language. The virus has a lot of strategies for invading the immune system, and thats really impeded vaccine development. Chief among those strategies is that there are a lot of different HIV strains around the world. That raises the question of whether researchers should try to come up with a regional vaccine which will only work in one part of the world or work on one that might work everywhere. There have been estimates that the viral diversity of HIV just within Boston is higher than the influenza virus diversity worldwide, he said. Nonetheless, the Brigham and Womens Hospital team was about to launch rare Phase 3 trials on a universal vaccine this spring until COVID-19 intervened. Despite a noticeable rise in Canadian AIDS numbers in recent years from 1,963 in 2015 to 2,561 in 2018, the last year statistics are available Yetman says the Newfoundland numbers have lingered below 15 annually. That may be partly due to stagnant testing numbers, something the committee tries to combat in its awareness campaigns. One of the things that were discovering through our education initiative is, particularly a lot of young people think that its already cured because were not seeing the death rate that we saw, so its not in the media, he said. And he criticized the fact Canada still prosecutes people who have sex without informing their partner in some cases. Criminalization of HIV is a bad public health measure. What ends up happening is that a lot of people dont even want to know their status because then theres a chance that they could end up in jail. New Delhi, Oct 5 : A 24-year-old man was stabbed to death in the national capital and another left wounded by robbers as the duo caught hold of a man who attempted to run after snatching a mobile. The victim Aman, and his friends were out on Sunday night when during a snatching bid a robber was caught red-handed. Aman had managed to pin him down as he snatched his mobile and tried to flee on G.B. road. "The injured, Aniruddh, stated that he along with his friends Aman, Hari Om and Raju came to G.B. Road at around 11.30 p.m. on Sunday. One person snatched mobile phone of Aman. Aman caught that person and started beating him. "In the meantime, another boy associate of snatcher came and stabbed Aman. He also injured Anirudh who came to help his friend. Aman succumbed to his injuries later," said a Senior police officer. Both were rushed to the RML hospital where Aman, a resident of New Ashok Nagar in East Delhi, was declared brought dead. The police have registered a case of murder and attempt to murder in Kamla Market police station. Several teams have been formed to arrest the robbers. (Newser) As President Trump continues to downplay his COVID-19 symptoms, medical experts say the treatment he is receiving raises some red flagsand that the POTUS may actually have a severe case of the coronavirus. "When I think about people needing dexamethasone, I think about people who are escalating their condition, who are heading closer to ICU level than to home," the chief of the division of infectious disease at Massachusetts General Hospital, who is also a professor at Harvard Medical School, tells the New York Times. She's one of multiple experts with similar credentials who are scratching their heads over the Sunday announcement that Trump is being given the steroidwhile his medical team insists he's doing so well he might be discharged Monday. Another such expert calls the drug's use "mystifying," since it's typically used in cases where a patient's condition is getting worse; a third said, of the latest details revealed about Trump's treatment, "it's much more than just an abundance of caution kind of thing" at this point. More on that and other news coming out about Trump's diagnosis: One possibility: "Suddenly, theyre throwing the kitchen sink at him," one of the experts says. "It raises the question: Is he sicker than were hearing, or are they being overly aggressive because he is the president, in a way that could be potentially harmful [due to drug interactions and other risks]?" He adds, "Youre giving remdesivir, youre giving dexamethasone, and youre giving monoclonal antibodies. No ones ever done that, not to mention famotidine and some zinc and a mix of cocktails, or whatever else hes on." story continues below It's not just the Times: Another expert spoke to NBC News about the steroid's use, and the media outlet notes that dexamethasone can actually be harmful when used in COVID patients who are only experiencing mild symptoms. Indeed, both the WHO and the NIH only recommend it for use in severe cases for that reason. Another expert spoke to NBC News about the steroid's use, and the media outlet notes that dexamethasone can actually be harmful when used in COVID patients who are only experiencing mild symptoms. Indeed, both the WHO and the NIH only recommend it for use in severe cases for that reason. And another: Yet another expert, who on Saturday had said if Trump started taking dexamethasone it would be a "very clear signal that he has a more severe disease," tells the Los Angeles Times, "I dont think hes out of the woods yet. He could get worse. And I think he needs very close monitoring." He adds, "This whole thing strikes me as very unusual. You would not have a normal person getting discharged at this moment." Yet another expert, who on Saturday had said if Trump started taking dexamethasone it would be a "very clear signal that he has a more severe disease," tells the Los Angeles Times, "I dont think hes out of the woods yet. He could get worse. And I think he needs very close monitoring." He adds, "This whole thing strikes me as very unusual. You would not have a normal person getting discharged at this moment." But on the other hand: Some of the experts who spoke to the Times noted that Trump has been able to speak in video updates without appearing short of breath, and has been seen walking with no apparent trouble, both of which are good signs. However, they also note that steroids can make a person appear to be doing better than they actually are. Time's take is that Trump is "on the cutting edge of coronavirus care." Another thing the experts agree on: Trump's medical team has not been very transparent about his condition, the severity of his symptoms, his treatment, or his prognosis, which makes it difficult for an outsider to gauge what exactly is going on. And Nancy Pelosi said senior Democratic lawmakers are just as in the dark as the public: "Were getting our information the way everyone else is, in the media." Trump's medical team has not been very transparent about his condition, the severity of his symptoms, his treatment, or his prognosis, which makes it difficult for an outsider to gauge what exactly is going on. And Nancy Pelosi said senior Democratic lawmakers are just as in the dark as the public: "Were getting our information the way everyone else is, in the media." Also drawing criticism: Is Trump's drive-by to wave to supporters outside the hospital. Some have pointed out that the president's bulletproof limousine is designed to be hermetically sealed to protect against a chemical attack, hypothetically concentrating virus particles inside. Even though Trump and the Secret Service agents in the car with him all wore masks, "Every single person in the vehicle ... now has to be quarantined for 14 days," an attending physician at Walter Reed (who is not involved in Trump's care) tweeted. "They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity." Is Trump's drive-by to wave to supporters outside the hospital. Some have pointed out that the president's bulletproof limousine is designed to be hermetically sealed to protect against a chemical attack, hypothetically concentrating virus particles inside. Even though Trump and the Secret Service agents in the car with him all wore masks, "Every single person in the vehicle ... now has to be quarantined for 14 days," an attending physician at Walter Reed (who is not involved in Trump's care) tweeted. "They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity." The AP's take: In a lengthy story largely focused on the "infected and contagious" Trump motorcade, the AP notes the president flouted the CDC's own guidelines, which state that "in general, transport and movement of a patient with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection outside of their room should be limited to medically essential purposes." In a lengthy story largely focused on the "infected and contagious" Trump motorcade, the AP notes the president flouted the CDC's own guidelines, which state that "in general, transport and movement of a patient with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection outside of their room should be limited to medically essential purposes." Inside the White House: The AP also notes that some Secret Service agents have previously expressed to the outlet concern over the White House's lax attitude toward masks and social distancing, and that since Trump's diagnosis, several White House officials have expressed frustration at the lack of transparency surrounding Trump's condition. Some have also expressed concern for their own health now that the White House itself is a virus "hot spot." Also? "It took until late Sunday for the White House to send a generic note to staffers suggesting they not come to the building if they do not feel well," the AP notes. New York Mag has a screenshot of the memo here. "It took until late Sunday for the White House to send a generic note to staffers suggesting they not come to the building if they do not feel well," the AP notes. New York Mag has a screenshot of the memo here. A note on Trump rallies: A senior adviser to the president's re-election campaign tells CNN the safety protocols for Trump's rallies (once they are able to recommence) will not change. Attendees are typically given face masks and hand sanitizer, and their temperatures are taken before entering. A senior adviser to the president's re-election campaign tells CNN the safety protocols for Trump's rallies (once they are able to recommence) will not change. Attendees are typically given face masks and hand sanitizer, and their temperatures are taken before entering. As for Joe Biden: He received another negative COVID test Sunday, CNN reports, and his campaign says it will release the results of every test he takes. Vice President Mike Pence and his wife also tested negative Sunday. He received another negative COVID test Sunday, CNN reports, and his campaign says it will release the results of every test he takes. Vice President Mike Pence and his wife also tested negative Sunday. Others at the White House? It's not clear who else at the White House has tested positive, and White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said Sunday she won't be revealing the number of positive tests due to privacy concerns. It's not clear who else at the White House has tested positive, and White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said Sunday she won't be revealing the number of positive tests due to privacy concerns. As for the current toll, Axios offers a "Trumpworld coronavirus tracker" here. One of the latest positive tests to be reported is that of Nick Luna, Trump's "body man," who traveled with him to the debate on Tuesday and to Minnesota on Wednesday, per Bloomberg. A senior administration official tells CNN it "seems highly likely this (outbreak) originated at the SCOTUS announcement last week. It may have come from the Hill. The next major concern will be securing Capitol Hill and protecting lawmakers." Axios offers a "Trumpworld coronavirus tracker" here. One of the latest positive tests to be reported is that of Nick Luna, Trump's "body man," who traveled with him to the debate on Tuesday and to Minnesota on Wednesday, per Bloomberg. A senior administration official tells CNN it "seems highly likely this (outbreak) originated at the SCOTUS announcement last week. It may have come from the Hill. The next major concern will be securing Capitol Hill and protecting lawmakers." Speaking of which: It's not clear how effectively the administration is carrying out contact tracing; one headline uses the word "inept" and multiple reports indicate the effort is severely lacking. It's not clear how effectively the administration is carrying out contact tracing; one headline uses the word "inept" and multiple reports indicate the effort is severely lacking. On another related note: Bill Barr has so far tested negative and is self-quarantining since he attended the Rose Garden event, but he expects to return to work this week; he had previously been criticized for refusing to quarantine, Newsweek reports. (Read more coronavirus stories.) Celebrations may be in order for Mortgage Advice Bureau (Holdings) plc (LON:MAB1) shareholders, with the analysts delivering a significant upgrade to their statutory estimates for the company. Consensus estimates suggest investors could expect greatly increased statutory revenues and earnings per share, with the analysts modelling a real improvement in business performance. Following the upgrade, the consensus from three analysts covering Mortgage Advice Bureau (Holdings) is for revenues of UK131m in 2020, implying an uncomfortable 10% decline in sales compared to the last 12 months. Statutory earnings per share are supposed to tumble 22% to UK0.21 in the same period. Previously, the analysts had been modelling revenues of UK114m and earnings per share (EPS) of UK0.18 in 2020. So we can see there's been a pretty clear increase in analyst sentiment in recent times, with both revenues and earnings per share receiving a decent lift in the latest estimates. View our latest analysis for Mortgage Advice Bureau (Holdings) It will come as no surprise to learn that the analysts have increased their price target for Mortgage Advice Bureau (Holdings) 27% to UK7.93 on the back of these upgrades. The consensus price target is just an average of individual analyst targets, so - it could be handy to see how wide the range of underlying estimates is. The most optimistic Mortgage Advice Bureau (Holdings) analyst has a price target of UK8.00 per share, while the most pessimistic values it at UK7.80. Even so, with a relatively close grouping of estimates, it looks like the analysts are quite confident in their valuations, suggesting Mortgage Advice Bureau (Holdings) is an easy business to forecast or the underlying assumptions are obvious. Of course, another way to look at these forecasts is to place them into context against the industry itself. These estimates imply that sales are expected to slow, with a forecast revenue decline of 10%, a significant reduction from annual growth of 15% over the last five years. Compare this with our data, which suggests that other companies in the same industry are, in aggregate, expected to see their revenue grow 10% next year. It's pretty clear that Mortgage Advice Bureau (Holdings)'s revenues are expected to perform substantially worse than the wider industry. Story continues The Bottom Line The biggest takeaway for us from these new estimates is that analysts upgraded their earnings per share estimates, with improved earnings power expected for this year. Fortunately, they also upgraded their revenue estimates, and are forecasting revenues to grow slower than the wider market. With a serious upgrade to expectations and a rising price target, it might be time to take another look at Mortgage Advice Bureau (Holdings). Even so, the longer term trajectory of the business is much more important for the value creation of shareholders. At Simply Wall St, we have a full range of analyst estimates for Mortgage Advice Bureau (Holdings) going out to 2022, and you can see them free on our platform here.. Of course, seeing company management invest large sums of money in a stock can be just as useful as knowing whether analysts are upgrading their estimates. So you may also wish to search this free list of stocks that insiders are buying. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com. Aljazeera, October 3, 2020 Civilians including one woman and four children were killed. Civilians including one woman and four children were killed. At least 15 people have been killed and more than 40 wounded in a suicide car bomb attack that targeted a government building in the eastern Afghan province of Nangarhar, officials said. There were fears that the death toll could rise after the explosion on Saturday at the entrance of an administrative building that also housed some military facilities in the Ghani Khel district. The car bomb detonated at the entrance of the district headquarters building. Several armed attackers tried to enter the building after the attack but were killed by security forces, the governors spokesman Attaullah Khogyani told AFP news agency on Saturday. As a result, 13 civilians including one woman and four children were killed. Two members of security forces were also killed, he said. Forty-two people, including four security forces members, were wounded, Khogyani added. Provincial police spokesman Farid Khan confirmed the details. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the blast. Armed groups such as ISIL (ISIS) and the Taliban have carried out attacks against the Afghan government, national security and defence personnel and civilians. The attack comes as representatives of the Afghan government and Taliban are engaged in negotiations in the Qatari capital, Doha, to end the countrys decades-long war. The intra-Afghan talks followed a United States-Taliban agreement signed in February in Doha. India, the second worst-hit country by the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in the world, recorded 74,442 new infections and 903 deaths in the last 24 hours, which has taken its tally to over 6.6 million, the Union health ministrys data showed on Monday. There are 6,623,815 cases of the coronavirus disease in the country now, including 934,427 active cases and 102,685 deaths, according to the health ministrys dashboard at 8am. The country as been posting high level of daily recoveries for the past few weeks and 76,737 recoveries were registered between Sunday and Monday morning. Now 5,586,703 people have been cured so far taking the national recovery rate to 84.34%. The new recoveries have exceeded the fresh cases of the coronavirus disease in the recent days. Indias total recoveries had crossed 55,09,966 on Sunday with 75.44% of the newly recovered cases recorded from 10 states and Union territories. Maharashtra, which has the highest number of active cases in the country, has also contributed the highest number to the newly-recovered cases followed by Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, according to the government on Sunday. Also read | Key challenges faced by Covid-19 tests The government also said that 10 states and Union territories account for 77.11% of the active cases in the country.The percent contribution of active cases to the positive caseload of the country reduced to 14.32% on Sunday, it added. Out of the total new cases, 78% were concentrated in 10 states and Union territories with Maharashtra contributing more than 14,000 to the new cases. Karnataka and Kerala reported 9,886 and 7834 new cases, respectively, according to government data. Also read | Covid-19 recovery rate in Maharashtra improving, says health minister Tope On Sunday, 80.53% of reported fatalities were from 10 states and Union territories with 29.57% of deaths reported were from Maharashtra with 278 fatalities followed by Karnataka with 100 deaths. Maharashtras contribution to death toll has been on a decline. India has posted high daily testing numbers over Thursday, Friday and Saturday with 10,97,947, 11,32,675 and 11,42,131 tests respectively despite the extended weekend, the government said. There has been an exponential rise in Indias daily testing capacities. More than 15 lakhs tests can be conducted every day. An average of 11.5 lakh tests were done on a daily basis during the past ten days, it added. Indias total tests have crossed 78.9 million so far from just one in January, when the first cases of the coronavirus disease were recorded in the country in Kerala. There has been a commensurate dip in the positivity rate or the number of people who test positive as compared to who get tested in a day. With progressively falling Positivity Rate, testing has worked as a highly effective tool to limit the spread of COVID-19 infection. Very high levels of testing lead to early identification, prompt isolation & effective treatment of COVID-19 cases. These have eventually resulted in a sustained low fatality rate, the health ministry has said. Moscow Dozens of people have reportedly been killed and hundreds more wounded since fighting erupted between Azerbaijan and Armenia just over a week ago. The two countries' military forces are clashing over the Azerbaijani breakaway territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, and with some major world powers backing opposing sides in the standoff and the U.S. notably absent there are concerns the conflict could escalate. International observers and analysts warn that, unlike during previous clashes along the two countries' shared border, it may be hard to negotiate peace this time, not least because NATO member Turkey has backed Azerbaijan and the United States appears uninterested in playing the vital role of arbiter. Officials on both sides claim to have inflicted serious losses on the other's. Both sides claim the other has killed civilians, including new reports Monday by officials in Azerbaijan that the city of Ganja, home to more than 330,000 people, was being shelled by Armenian forces. Shrapnel holes in a car as a building burns in the background after shelling by Azerbaijan's artillery during a military conflict in self-proclaimed Republic of Nagorno-Karabakh, Stepanakert, Azerbaijan, October 4, 2020. / Credit: Karo Sahakyan/ArmGov PAN Photo/AP Videos posted online from the battleground show an unprecedented use of heavy artillery, tanks, missiles, and even kamikaze drones as the fighting has escalated. Both countries accuse the other of refusing to agree to cease fire, and neither has shown any willingness yet to reengage in stalled peace talks. What is behind the dispute? Armenia and Azerbaijan both used to be part of the Soviet Union, but since that crumbled, the new borders in the Caucasus region have remained in dispute. The breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, recognized internationally as part of Azerbaijan, is seen in red. / Credit: Getty/iStockphoto When Soviet Communist rule was nearing its end in the late 1980s, the mountainous region of Nagorno-Karabakh's autonomous legislature voted to join Armenia. As the Soviet Union dissolved, Nagorno-Karabakh proclaimed its independence, which led to a war with tens of thousands of casualties. It has not been recognized by any other country as an independent state Internationally still recognized as part of Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh is predominantly populated by ethnic Armenians. Story continues The long-simmering conflict has been mediated by the "Minsk group," set up by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in 1994 and co-chaired by Russia, France and the United States. A woman cries at The hostilities that began at the end of September are said to be the worst since 1994, when the war ended with a ceasefire and Armenia taking control of the region. "One step away" from war Despite that ceasefire, skirmishes have continued along the so-called "line of contact" over the past three decades. The last serious flare-up was in 2016, when dozens of troops on both sides were killed. Then over this past summer tensions flared again, but this time, with a global pandemic distracting Europe and racial unrest and election year politics engulfing the U.S., there was no serious diplomatic effort made to deescalate the standoff. "All the signals were in place, everything was telling that escalation was coming. And there was diplomatic silence," Olesya Vartanyan, senior analyst for the South Caucasus region at the International Crisis Group, told CBS News. "We are definitely one step away from a large-scale war in the region," she said, noting that such a conflict could embroil Russia, Turkey, or both. #NATO SecGen Jens Stoltenberg on Nagorno-Karabakh: We are deeply concerned by the escalation of hostilities. All sides should immediately cease fighting & find a way forward towards a peaceful resolution. And I expect Turkey to use its considerable influence to calm tensions." pic.twitter.com/aAln8JkL9f Dylan P. White (@dylanpwhite) October 5, 2020 Russia has close ties with both Armenia and Azerbaijan, and it has sold military hardware to both countries. Armenia is Russia's military ally, however, and Moscow has a base in the country. Turkey, a member of NATO and also the Minsk group, has openly backed predominantly-Muslim Azerbaijan in the conflict, calling Armenia a threat to peace in the region. The Armenian Ministry of Defense said last week that one of its jets was shot down by a Turkish F-16. A spokeswoman with the ministry said the Turkish plane took off from the territory of Azerbaijan, flew into Armenia and shot down the Armenian SU-25 military aircraft. Azerbaijan and Turkey have dismissed the allegation. What is the international response? On Thursday, the U.S., France and Russia condemned the fighting in Nagorno-Karabakh in a joint statement. "We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities between the relevant military forces," the statement by the presidents of the three countries said. "We also call on the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan to commit without delay to resuming substantive negotiations" A firefighter extinguishes a fire in a house caused by shelling amid fighting over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh, in the town of Barda, Azerbaijan, October 5, 2020. / Credit: AZIZ KARIMOV/REUTERS Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said last week that he had called the foreign ministers of both Armenia and Azerbaijan to say Russia was willing to host talks. On Monday, Iran, which sits just to the south of both countries, also offered to help, with the regime saying it had "plan" ready to present to Armenia and Azerbaijan this week. Thus far, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Turkey have all dismissed the international community's calls for a ceasefire and offers to broker peace talks. Washington's role The Trump administration also issued a unilateral statement last week calling on the warring sides to show restraint, but it was the last major international actor to respond a possible sign of the extent to which the White House is focused on the upcoming election, at the expense of diplomacy. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan spoke on Thursday with President Trump's National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien. Pashinyan later told French TV and The New York Times that he had raised the alleged use of U.S.-supplied F-16 aircraft in the conflict by Turkey, purportedly in support of Azerbaijan. "The United States," Pashinyan told The New York Times, "needs to explain whether it gave those F-16s to bomb peaceful villages and peaceful populations." He said O'Brien "heard and acknowledged" his concerns, and promised to arrange a phone call between Armenia's leader and Mr. Trump. But that all transpired just as Mr. Trump was confirmed to have contracted the new coronavirus and was quickly admitted to Walter Reed hospital in Washington for treatment. Vartanyan, of the International Crisis Group, noted that President Trump's recent predecessors all made efforts to pacify previous flare-ups between Armenia and Azerbaijan. "Even before the fighting, many senior officials in the region told me they felt no U.S. interest in this conflict for more than three years," she said. Washington's atypical disengagement in this instance could leave room for a further escalation of the conflict, according to Thomas de Waal, a senior fellow with the Carnegie Europe think tank. "The flare-up can also be seen as a symptom of a world in which the U.S. is no longer acting to defuse regional conflicts," de Waal wrote in a commentary published by last week by Politico Europe. How Trump's COVID-19 diagnosis could impact his campaign and the 2020 election How Trump's COVID diagnosis affects the election Trump's doctors say he could be discharged as early as Monday GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- The Kent County Health Department is urging residents to continue wearing masks and being socially distant amid uncertainty about the validity of statewide orders directing those practices. As of Monday, Oct. 5, its too early to know if the county health department will mandate these measures as some of their counterparts in other counties did over the weekend, KCHD spokesperson Steve Kelso said. In the meantime, he said, Kent County health officials want residents to observe the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention best practices on preventing the spread of COVID-19. COVID-19 remains a threat regardless of what has happened, Kelso said. These hygiene practices include, but arent limited to, staying 6 feet away from those not in the same household, wearing masks when around others and regularly washing hands. COVID-19 is not going anywhere and we are seeing disturbing increases in test positivity rates and new cases," Adam London, director of the county health department, said in a statement Sunday evening. Since the outbreak began in March, Kent County has reported 9,664 cases and 166 deaths. Seven-day moving averages for the number of new cases have increased over the past two weeks. As of Friday, the seven-day daily average was 88 new cases. The previous weeks daily average was 68 new cases. Over the weekend, the Oakland County Health Department ordered residents to wear masks when they leave their homes, and the Ingham County Health Department mandated that residents wear masks, limit gathering sizes, reduce restaurant capacity and have employee health screenings, according to the Associated Press. The consideration of county-level health orders is in response to the Michigan Supreme Court on Friday, Oct. 2, invalidating Gov. Gretchen Whitmers unilateral use of the states emergency statues to continue her coronavirus state of emergency past April 30. Related: 5 big coronavirus orders from Gov. Whitmer thrown into question by recent court ruling Whitmer has said her nearly 200 executive orders made under those statutes, including mandatory mask use, social distancing and reduced restaurant capacities, will remain valid for 21 days following the ruling. State Attorney General Dana Nessel said her department will no longer enforce the executive orders. Some of Whitmers invalidated orders, including those pertaining to mask use, gathering limitations, social distancing and more, are backed up by Michigan Department of Health and Human Services public health orders made under a different state statute. London said he hopes Whitmer and legislators will work together to protect public health in a collaborative and expedited manner. The Michigan Supreme Courts split-decision has sparked widespread confusion about practices residents are legally required to follow. Health departments in Kent and Ottawa counties have said the Friday ruling does not impact orders for isolation and quarantine. Kelso said his department is still trying to parse out what statewide public health measures still are and arent in effect. Kent County Health Department leaders are working with their counterparts in surrounding counties, as well as the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, to determine their next steps, Kelso said. Read more: Monday, Oct. 5: Latest developments on coronavirus in Michigan All over the place: Universities' COVID-19 data has no reporting standards Whitmer: Michigan Supreme Court undermined public health efforts amid COVID-19 pandemic Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 01:09:49|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BERLIN, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Germany's leading DAX index could be expanded from 30 to 40 companies, stock exchange operator Deutsche Boerse announced on Monday. "It is no secret that I personally would welcome the expansion of the DAX 30 to a DAX 40," Theodor Weimer, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Deutsche Boerse, said in a statement. The proposed reform also included decreasing the number of companies listed in the second tier index MDAX from 60 to 50 while the tier three SDAX would continue to include 70 titles, according to Deutsche Boerse. In a market consultation on the reform that would be conducted over the next four weeks, participants could also give their opinion about extended quality criteria such as "demonstrable profitability" of the companies listed in the DAX index, according to Deutsche Boerse. "I am sure that the further development of the criteria will help the German capital market to achieve further quality," added Weimer. In a prominent case that attracted international attention, German payment provider Wirecard, which had been listed in the DAX just two years ago, filed for insolvency in June after its falsified balance sheet had been uncovered, leaving a 1.9 billion euro (2.2 billion U.S. dollars) gap in its books. However, due to DAX regulations, insolvent Wirecard remained in the German top index for weeks. In the wake of one of the largest accounting scandals in German history, Deutsche Boerse announced plans to reform the DAX membership rules. Timely submission of quarterly reports for the DAX index and an audited annual report for all selection indices with the possibility of sanctions, up to exclusion from the index in case of non-compliance, were also surveyed as extended criteria, according to Deutsche Boerse. The market consultation was launched with the aim of "introducing stricter criteria" for the selection of index constituents and their "alignment with international index standards," a Deutsche Boerse spokesperson told Xinhua on Monday and added that "transparency, predictability and objectivity" of the DAX indices were to be maintained. Enditem LITTLETON, Colo., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Denver Business Journal names Beacon Communications one of the Largest Denver-Area Tech Employers for 2020. Beacon Communications, a leader in critical communications, announced today that it received recognition from the Denver Business Journal, ranking it the 16th largest Denver-Area Tech Employer for 2020. The Denver Business Journal recognized Beacon Communications for a second consecutive year for its continuous growth. The Denver Business Journal recognized Beacon Communications for a second consecutive year for its continuous growth. "The creative and effective solutions we provide to our clients year after year have paved the way for our continued growth. All the credit for our success goes to our talented staff, our sound business partners, and the commitment from our remarkable clients we have the pleasure of serving," said Brad Walsh, President, Beacon Communications. The Denver Business Journal is a national brand publication read by top business leaders. The publication has a paid circulation of 17,219 subscribers and their online site receives 345,790 unique monthly visitors. Beacon Communications is a systems integration firm specializing in crucial communications, security, and audiovisual services of the healthcare, education, commercial, and government sectors. For over 20 years, Beacon has actively shaped the ever-growing industry of critical communications. We provide innovative and intuitive technology solutions for a wide range of industries and purposes, from audio/visual and security systems, to fully comprehensive IT and operational solutions. Media Contact: Meagan Baalman 303.750.6500 [email protected] SOURCE Beacon Communications Rishi Sunak has come under fire for an awkward party conference speech beset by technical problems this morning, with his eyes 'darting back and forth' as he tried to read the auto-cue. The Chancellor's speech cut out shortly after it began and he struggled to read off a teleprompter that appeared to have been put in the wrong place, with the camera angle changing several times. Baffled viewers also said he sounded like he was 'accepting an Oscar', hitting out at his 'victorious-sounding' speech despite dire warnings of tax raises and economic hardship to come. In the keynote address, Sunak also conceded that he will not be able to save all jobs as Britain tries to recover from the damage caused by the coronavirus pandemic. However, despite the warnings, the Chancellor used a large part of his speech to lavish praise on his family, Conservative supporters, predecessors and the Prime Minister, sharing his gratitude for their support. His wasn't the only speech to be hampered by tech problems, with Home Secretary Priti Patel also struggling to read from a teleprompter and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab facing away from the camera during his address. There are fears among senior Tories that the issues could affect Boris Johnson's address tomorrow. Allies of the Chancellor blamed the way Conservative HQ had set up the auto-cue and podium for the awkward imagery. 'It's not that hard to get the auto-cue just below camera eye level,' one said. 'Let's hope it's sorted for the PM tomorrow.' The gaffe is a rare misstep for Sunak, who has won plaudits for his slick, well put-together appearance during the pandemic, in contrast to the bumbling performances of some of his ministerial colleagues. It is also a surprising blunder for his highly-rated PR guru Allegra Stratton, the former BBC and ITV News journalist who is widely seen as being behind the Chancellor's positive approval ratings among the British public. Ms Stratton is the favourite to front the government's new White House-style daily press briefings set to begin later this month. She has been credited with helping to boost the Chancellor's public profile and increasing his popularity during the coronavirus crisis, having joined his team earlier this year. Boris Johnson was also said to be impressed by her impact and is thought to have sounded her out to front the new televised press briefings. She is now on the final shortlist following a day of interviews and screen tests at No 10 a few weeks ago. The Prime Minister is expected to interview Ms Stratton and the other candidate for the six-figure salaried position a 'left-field' BBC presenter, according to sources to test their personal 'chemistry'. Ms Stratton, a 39-year-old mother-of-two, quit ITV News to join Mr Sunak's increasingly powerful Treasury operation. Allegra Stratton: A former ITV and BBC news presenter who quit journalism to spin for Rishi Sunak Allegra Stratton is a former ITV journalist who has been Rishi Sunak's director of strategic communications at the Treasury since this April. The 39-year-old mother-of-two quit ITV News to enter politics after co-presenting Peston on Sunday with Robert Peston. She also served as ITV News' national editor, making her first appearance on the broadcaster's News at Ten programme in January 2016. Before that she worked at the BBC between 2012-2015 as political editor of Newsnight, replacing Michael Crick who left to become a correspondent for Channel 4. Previously she was the Guardian's political correspondent and presented the newspaper's Politics Weekly podcast with Tom Clark. Ms Stratton has also worked as a producer for the BBC, on the foreign desk at The Times and wrote for the Independent and the New Statesman. Before embarking on her journalism career, Ms Stratton attended Cambridge University. She is married to James Forsyth who is the political editor of The Spectator magazine. Advertisement The Cambridge University graduate, who is married to James Forsyth, the political editor of The Spectator, has been the favourite since No 10 said that it was introducing the afternoon TV briefings as part of a bid to communicate more directly with voters. Mr Johnson has declared himself to be 'impressed' by Ms Stratton, and recently invited her to join him at Chequers. Downing Street has struggled to attract a wide field of experienced broadcasters to apply for the job because of the lavish pay packets of the television industry and the risk they will become the public face of the Government's pratfalls. The new briefings will take place in a revamped No 9 Downing Street, which is currently being turned into a media centre. However, today's keynote address from the Chancellor is sure to raise eyebrows in Westminster. Baffled viewers took to social media to share their confusion at the tone of the speech. One said: 'It's not an Oscars acceptance speech #RishiSunak.' A second added: 'About to have breakfast until shiny happy clean Rishi Sunak has arrived on my news feed thanking his support network & predecessors by first names sounds like an award acceptance speech surprisingly not hungry anymore more ewwwwwwwwwww.' While a third said: 'Rishi Sunak, the sycophant rises. That was one of the most nausea creating speeches I have ever heard. The kind of speech made on behalf of despots and dictators.' The technical issues were also highlighted on social media. One person said: 'Rishi Sunak, another world beating tech failure. PS learn how to read from an autocue.' A second said: 'Another technical glitch. Fortunately, this time we only lost the video link to Rishi Sunak, not thousands of lives because people potentially infected with Covid-19 weren't contacted.' While a third joked: ' Who put the autocue so far to the side for Rishi's speech?' The speech was about 10 minutes long in total, with the first two minutes seeing the Chancellor thank a host of people. Allegra Stratton, a former presenter on ITV's Peston on Sunday programme, is widely seen as being behind the Chancellor's positive approval ratings among the British public The Chancellor suffered technical issues during the address, with his speech cutting out shortly after it began He said: 'Being appointed Chancellor in February this year was an immense honour. Even though my first conference speech as Chancellor isn't quite how I expected it to be, it remains a privilege to talk to you today. 'And I am here today because of so many different people. My family, whose love sustains me. 'My colleagues in Government and in Parliament, whose backing has never wavered. My association in Richmond, North Yorkshire, who placed their trust in me, and gave me their loyalty, support and this opportunity to serve. 'And my party, whose members, councillors and activists worked tirelessly to deliver a Conservative government in December last year.' The Chancellor went on to describe politics as a 'team sport' and paid tribute to his colleagues and predecessors, hailing them by their first names. He also described Boris Johnson of having a 'special and rare quality' and defended his handling of the coronavirus crisis. Sunak said: 'Politics is a team sport, and there is always a multitude of hardworking people behind any effort. So, I want to thank my ministerial team; Steve, Jessie, John, Kemi, Theo, Claire and James. 'I also want to thank my predecessors: George, Phillip and Sajid. It is only because of ten years of sound Conservative management of our economy that this government has been able to act with the pace and scale we have in responding to Coronavirus. 'And I want to thank the Prime Minister, for entrusting me with this job and whose friendship has been invaluable. 'I've seen up close the burden the Prime Minister carries. We all know he has an ability to connect with people in a way few politicians manage. It is a special and rare quality. 'But what the commentators don't see, the thing I see, is the concern and care he feels, every day, for the wellbeing of the people of our country. Yes, it's been difficult, challenges are part of the job, but on the big calls, in the big moments, Boris Johnson has got it right and we need that leadership.' Later, Sunak delivered a stark warning that tax rises and spending cuts might be needed after the immediate crisis passes. Rishi Sunak (pictured visiting Octopus energy with Boris Johnson this morning) mounted a staunch defence of his Eat Out subsidies after the PM admitted yesterday they might have contributed to the sharp rise in coronavirus cases He said 'over the medium term' the government will need to 'get our borrowing and debt back under control'. 'This Conservative government will always balance the books,' he said. The speech came after Sunak risked fueling the speculation of tensions with Mr Johnson branded the 10pm pubs curfew 'frustrating' and insisted he had 'no regrets' about the Eat Out to Help Out scheme. By contrast the PM admitted yesterday that the dining subsidies might have contributed to the sharp rise in coronavirus cases. The two men were pictured together visiting an energy firm this morning in an apparent bid to smooth over the situation. Sunak told the conference - being held virtually due to the pandemic - that he was ready to do whatever he could to protect the economy. But he also signalled that there will have to be a reckoning for the government's huge outlay. 'We will protect the public finances. Over the medium term getting our borrowing and debt back under control,' he said. 'We have a sacred responsibility to future generations to leave the public finances strong, and through careful management of our economy, this Conservative government will always balance the books. 'If instead we argue there is no limit on what we can spend, that we can simply borrow our way out of any hole, what is the point in us?' Sunak has been cementing his status as the leading Cabinet 'hawk' on the need to get the economy running again, winning plaudits from MPs who are furious with Mr Johnson for curbing civil liverties and trashing business. That has sparked claims of tensions between the two politicians. But Sunak tried to draw a line under the rumours today with a gushing tribute to the premier. One Nation and the NSW Greens will form an unlikely alliance to support a gambling card for poker machines, as the Berejiklian government braces for a stoush with clubs and pubs over the plan. The government wants to move to cashless poker machines and require players to register for a government-issued gambling card in the most sweeping gaming reforms in the state's history. The Greens and One Nation are supportive of plans to overhaul problem gambling in NSW. Credit:Brendan Esposito One Nation leader Mark Latham, who has previously revealed his father Don's gambling problem, has backed the proposal, warning problem gambling was a serious health issue crippling families. Mr Latham said he had been pushing for 20 years for cashless smart card technology to overcome "this dreadful, destructive problem in our society". Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will continue his attack on the Centre over the recently-passed farm laws when he will begin his second round of tractor rally in Punjab on Monday, a day after it saw massive participation from party leaders and farmers supporting the protest. On the second day of the partys Kheti Bachao Yatra, Gandhi will cover a distance of 20km, beginning with a reception at Barnala Chowk in the Sangrur district, from where the Congress leader and his team will travel by car to Bhawanigarh to address a public meeting. They will then head to Samana in Patiala district on tractors. Their receptions will be held at Fatehgarh Chhana and Bahmna, before ending the day with a public meeting at Grain Market, Samana. Also Read: Rahul Gandhi vows to scrap contentious farm laws once Congress returns to power at Centre Gandhi had expressed solidarity with the agrarian community on the first day of the tractor rally and called out the Centre asking if the farmers were happy why were they protesting against the legislation passed during Parliaments monsoon session. And if farmers are happy with these laws, then why are they agitating across the country? Why is every farmer of Punjab agitating? he asked. The Congress leader also released a kisan-mazdoor ekta (farmer-labourer unity) flag. He was joined by chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh, former minister Navjot Singh Sidhu, and a battery of senior Congress leaders. The chief minister urged Gandhi to bring the farmers from across India under one roof for an organised protest against the Centre. The Akalis sold off the farmers interests as part of the Central government, with Bathinda MP Harsimrat Badal being party to the decision as a minister. The Centre might pay MSP for a couple of crops, but eventually it would scrap the system completely, he added. The protest march in Punjab covered a distance of approximately 22km on the first day, starting from Badni Kalan in the states Moga district, then headed to Ludhianas Jagraon and moved ahead to Chakar, Lakha and Manoke before concluding in Raikot. The Congress teams 50km tractor rally will end in Punjab on Tuesday. They will start from Dudhan Sadhan in the Patiala district with a public meeting, then head for Pehowa border, which is at a distance of 10km. Gandhi will then enter Haryana for a two-day tractor rally and roadshows in the state against the three farm laws - The Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020, The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Service Act, 2020 and The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020. By PTI KOLKATA: In an unprecedented development, the state BJP leadership on Monday decided to take the body of slain party leader Manish Shukla to Raj Bhavan in protest against what it called "the murder of democracy". The police, however, said the saffron party was denied permission to take the body to the Governor House. "We have decided to take the body to Raj Bhavan in protest against the murder of democracy in the state. From there, it will be taken to Titagrah," a senior BJP leader said. Shukla, a councillor of Titagarh Municipality in North 24 Parganas district, was shot dead on Sunday by two bike- borne assailants. His body was handed over to the family member this evening after conducting post-mortem examination. BJP national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya has met Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar and complained about the killing of party workers in the state. Everything you need to know about skiing the Northeast this winter Whether you want to stay close to home or head north, here's everything you need to know about skiing or snowboarding in the Northeast and New York this season. Unlike my grandparents and great-grandparents, I have never been asked to serve my country. Until now. The adversary this time is COVID-19, and all Canadians are being asked to make the smallest of sacrifices to contribute to the effort to combat a virus for which there is no known cure and no vaccine. The virus has killed, it has made people sick, and it has devastated the economy, particularly in the service and travel industries, where people are being cast out of work and businesses are failing. The front line in this campaign is formed wherever people come together, particularly in large numbers and in confined spaces. Its guardians are those still working in the service industries, school teachers, medical personnel and first responders. The rest of us are simply being asked to stay home as much as possible, to forego those normal activities that bring us in contact with groups of people. This includes family gatherings like Thanksgiving dinner. Some among us, of course, see these measures as restricting their freedom, as if freedom is merely individual and absolute, and that it doesnt require collective struggle from time to time, as our ancestors who risked their lives in combat should have taught us. The irony is that it is those who refuse to wear masks, who dont social distance and who carry on as if there is no pandemic, they are the ones who have compelled governments to impose restrictions. We should, I think, see this trying moment as an opportunity to serve our communities, to demonstrate our respect for others, to contribute in a consequential way to halting COVIDs spread, and to reflect on how good we have it in normal times. The Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), a center supported by the "la Caixa" Foundation, in coordination with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy (CUNY SPH) and other international institutions, has developed an easy and reliable tool to evaluate the public perception of governmental response to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to an analysis of the first results obtained across 19 countries, the COVID-SCORE questionnaire can help public health officials and other decision makers identify and correct weaknesses in key aspects of a country's response, and track trends as the pandemic evolves. Government response to the COVID-19 pandemic has varied considerably between countries. Although most governments have implemented a series of common measures such as mobility restrictions, closure of businesses, places of worship and schools, or shelter-at-home orders, the timing and approach have differed. One key element that determines the course of a pandemic is a society's compliance with such measures, which in turn depends on several factors such as trust in government or the clarity of the information that government sources provide. "We need basic tools to help us assess the public perception of government responses in key aspects such as communication, or access to health services and social welfare," says Jeffrey V Lazarus, researcher at ISGlobal. Together with international colleagues, Lazarus coordinated the development of COVID-SCORE with 10 items related to key aspects of the government response, to be rated by the interviewees. The study Lazarus and his colleagues published in PLOS ONE validates the tool and presents the first results from a survey conducted in June 2020 with over 13,400 participants from 19 countries heavily affected by the pandemic. The average score varied considerably between countries - from 35.76 out of a maximum of 100 for Ecuador to 80.48 for China, the country whose response was rated most positively. Countries in Asia tended to have higher scores, while Latin-American and European countries were among those with lowest scores. As expected, the average score for a country was strongly associated with the level of trust in government, as reported in this survey and measured independently by the Wellcome Global Monitor. "We know that public compliance with preventive measures greatly depends on the trust in public health experts, health systems and science," says Ayman El-Mohandes, Dean of CUNY SPH. Higher COVID-19 mortality or a greater percentage of respondents directly affected by the disease correlated with a lower score for the country, the researchers found. The average score for the United States, with 773 respondents, was 50.57. Highest rated (3.16 out of 5) was the government's assistance with income, food, and shelter during the pandemic: this finding corresponds with the timing of the survey, which took place soon after initial emergency funds were distributed last spring. Notably, the US ranked seventeenth among the 19 countries surveyed with regard to government cooperation with other countries and international organisations such as the WHO (3.03 out of 5). Spain, with 748 respondents, obtained an average score of 44.68. The highest-rated item was relative to the government's cooperation with other countries and international organisations such as the WHO (3.46 on a 1 to 5 scale), while the lowest-rated item was access to free and reliable COVID-19 testing in case of symptoms (2.09). In all countries, questions about protection and assistance to vulnerable groups and help in meeting daily needs for income, food and shelter rated poorly, which underscores the need to give particular attention to the most vulnerable. Provision of mental health services was the lowest-rated item across all countries. "This tool is easy to implement and can guide researchers and authorities in designing measures to better control the pandemic," says El-Mohandes. In addition, it can be done at different moments to assess the response as the pandemic evolves. Average Score by Country China 80.48 South Korea 74.54 South Africa 64.62 India 63.88 Germany 61.32 Canada 61.00 Singapore 57.55 Italy 51.71 United States 50.57 France 49.20 Russia 48.85 United Kingdom 48.66 Mexico 46.48 Nigeria 46.32 Spain 44.68 Sweden 42.07 Poland 41.28 Brazil 36.35 Ecuador 35.76 ### Reference About ISGlobal Lazarus J, Ratzan S, Palayew A, Billari FC, Binagwaho A, Kimbali S, Larson HJ, Melegaro A, Rabin K, White TM, El-Mohandes A. COVID-SCORE: A global survey to assess public perceptions of government responses to COVID-19 (COVID-SCORE-10) . PLOS ONE. October 2020 https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0240011 The Barcelona Institute for Global Health, ISGlobal, is the fruit of an innovative alliance between the "la Caixa" Foundation and academic and government institutions to contribute to the efforts undertaken by the international community to address the challenges in global health. ISGlobal is a consolidated hub of excellence in research that has grown out of work first started in the world of health care by the Hospital Clinic and the Parc de Salut MAR and in the academic sphere by the University of Barcelona and Pompeu Fabra University. The pivotal mechanism of its work model is the transfer of knowledge generated by scientific research to practice, a task undertaken by the institute's Education and Policy and Global Development departments. ISGlobal has been named a Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence and is a member of the CERCA programme of the Generalitat de Catalunya. About the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy The CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy (CUNY SPH) is committed to teaching, research, and service that creates a healthier New York City and helps promote equitable, efficient, and evidence-based solutions to pressing health problems facing cities around the world. For more information, visit sph.cuny.edu. Follow us on Twitter: @CUNYSPH. ISGlobal Press Office Pau Rubio pau.rubio@isglobal.org 0034 696 91 28 41 Carol Pozo carolina.pozo@isglobal.org 0034 669 877 950 CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy Press Office Barbara Aaron barbara.aaron@sph.cuny.edu 914.673.9211 After nearly 250 students of Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Hyderabad (JNTU-H) gathered at the university gate on October 5 to protest the university's decision to conduct exams during the ongoing pandemic, the police had to take counter-action to disperse the crowd. According to student sources and videos being circulated, the action taken by the police was quite "brutal" and about 50 students have been detained. "Without bothering to see if the student is a boy or a girl, the police lathicharged us brutally," alleged D Ganesh, a member of the JNTU-H Students' Committee. The students had gathered at 11 am and the protest began to get loud and boisterous before the police broke them up. It is to be noted that the conduct of exams has been upheld by the Supreme Court based on recommendations by the UGC and the guidelines issued by the MHA. JNTU-H had initially agreed to pass all the students before rolling their decision back on the direction of the Supreme Court. Scene near JNTU-H | (Pic: Vinay Madapu) After boycotting online classes from the last week of September and conducting a digital candlelight protest on October 3, students of JNTU-H quickly realised that all their pleas are falling on deaf ears. They even started an online petition on change.org which has over 49,906 signatories. These protests have been the consequence of the varsity backtracking on its promote-all plan and deciding to conduct exams for previous semesters though they have commenced classes for the next leading to a whole lot of chaos. Members of National Students' Union of India (NSUI), Telangana State and Students' Federation of India (SFI) were also present. "We have written thousands of emails as well, but to no avail. The management refuses to even listen to our demands," says Ganesh. Students are demanding cancellation of all the end of semester exams that are to be conducted at the end of October. Though the students tried their best to maintain social distancing norms, the advent of the police and what happened (before and after) also made it tough for them, though almost all of them had a facemask on. Pregnancy is just a natural part of life. Unfortunately, some employers havent figured that out yet. A number of years ago, I was in management for a news organization when a reporter I had just hired announced she was pregnant. I congratulated her and passed word up the chain of command. I was stunned by the reaction of my boss. She deceived us, Scott. If she was going to get pregnant, she should have told us before we offered her a job. He wanted me to fire her. I refused, but I knew my intransigence on the matter could cost me my job. Instead, I spent months being harangued on a near-daily basis by the head of my organization about how I ought to fire the woman. Eventually, the person gave birth, took a short maternity leave and returned to the office to be a productive employee. She never knew the discussions taking place between those above her. That experience changed how I viewed pregnancy in the workplace. Before this experience, I couldnt imagine a business hassling an employee for being pregnant. And my default position on government regulation of business has always been that less is better. But you live and learn. I was naive. And I was wrong. That is why Im pleased to see the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. If the act becomes law, employers with more than 15 employees would have to make reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers. Also, pregnant workers could not be denied employment opportunities or retaliated against for requesting a reasonable accommodation. And in most circumstances, they could not be forced to take paid or unpaid leave. One of the bills co-sponsors is U.S. Rep. Cheri Bustos, D-Moline, who says she has personally felt the sting of discrimination. Like many women, I have seen the impact that it can have on a career when an employer refuses to consider accommodations for a pregnancy, she said. Years ago, when I was still early in my career, I was up for a promotion. At the time, I had two children at home. During my interview, I was asked if I had child care and if I planned to have more children. I replied that I had everything in my personal life in the right place. Despite having more experience, an excellent track record and having been with my employer longer, weeks later it was announced that I did not get the promotion. The person who did was single, with no children at home. Bustos asked that I not identify the employer. Thats understandable. No one wants to talk badly about a former employer. And thats why I, too, have held off on identifying the firm where I had my bad experience. But an interesting aspect of Bustos situation was that it was a female supervisor who questioned her about whether she planned another pregnancy. In my case, the pressure to fire a pregnant worker came from a man. Discrimination can come from all quarters. And that is why we need laws protecting pregnant workers. Scott Reeder is a veteran statehouse journalist and a freelance reporter. He can be reached at ScottReeder1965@gmail.com. Is something bugging Warren Buffett these days? Since the onset of the pandemic, the GOAT (greatest of all time) of investing didnt make purchases but did a lot of significant selling. Berkshire Hathaway dumped its entire holdings in airline companies. His next moves were uncharacteristic, if not cryptic. Ditching Canadian stock Restaurant Brands International (TSX:QSR)(NYSE: QSR) is perhaps the most puzzling call of all. If the fast-food chain operator isnt doing badly as airline stocks, the sale seems to suggest Buffett has reservations about the TSX. Should investors brace for a stock market crash in Canada? If the legendary investor were wary of Canadian stocks, he would have dropped Suncor Energy and not added more shares of the energy stock in Q2 2020. Likewise, Berkshire took a new position in Canadian mining stock Barrick Gold. Impressive comeback Rebalancing or de-risking a portfolio is understandable if the value of investments is diminishing. The airline industry is unlikely to rebound anytime soon, given the travel restrictions and weak demand. However, in particular, the food business or quick-service restaurants have better chances of recovering after the shutdowns. COVID-19 disrupted the restaurant industry on a grand scale, especially dine-in restaurants. Social distancing prevents customers from returning or reluctant for fear of contracting coronavirus. For Restaurant Brands, its drive-thru and delivery operations are in full harness. Digital channels are also driving sales to return to pre-coronavirus levels. In terms of stock performance, the stock is currently trading at $77.52 per share. Its a remarkable 94.33% rally from the COVID low of $39.89 on March 18, 2020. Restaurant Brands is down by only 3.55% year to date. Investors are delighting in the 3.64% dividend. Bright outlook Restaurant Brandss revenue fell 25.1% during the temporary shutdowns. The revenues in Burger King and Tim Hortons fell 13.4% and 29.3%. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen was the revelation after posting a 24.8% year-over-year growth. Its chicken sandwich is the hottest fare and is enjoying robust demand. Buffett might regret turning his back on the operator of the iconic global brands. Story continues The home markets are turning in stellar results. Restaurant Brandss digital sales soared 120% year over year. All brands reported triple-digit comps growth. At the close of Q2 2020, total sales 90% of prior year system-wide sales. Innovations are forthcoming, and the company will seize the moment. Its growth opportunity is the shift to the off-premise business model. In the contactless and budget-conscious environment, Restaurant Brandss digital investments should pay off. The company has a prototype restaurant with no indoor dining. It would be the future of fast-food chains. Negligible impact Warren Buffetts decision to drop his entire holdings in Restaurant Brands did not influence investor sentiment. For billionaire Bill Ackman, the quick-service restaurant stock is a compelling investment case. His investment firm Pershing Square Capital boosted its stock position in Q2 2020 and sold all its Berkshire shares. Im giving the GOAT of investing the benefit of the doubt. He can influence investors, because he has a good grasp of the stock market. However, analysts view Restaurant Brands as one of the best-valued restaurant stocks today. The business fundamentals are improving, which should strengthen its competitive position and deliver bounteous liquidity. The post Warren Buffett: Brace Yourself for a Canadian Market Crash appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada. More reading Fool contributor Christopher Liew has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Berkshire Hathaway (B shares). The Motley Fool recommends RESTAURANT BRANDS INTERNATIONAL INC and recommends the following options: long January 2021 $200 calls on Berkshire Hathaway (B shares) and short January 2021 $200 puts on Berkshire Hathaway (B shares). The Motley Fools purpose is to help the world invest, better. Click here now for your free subscription to Take Stock, The Motley Fool Canadas free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead. Motley Fool Canada 2020 Oil prices fell nearly 1% on Friday, extending losses into a second day as rising production of crude comes amid a worsening Covid-19 pandemic which threatens to bring more restrictions on movement and consumption that will likely hit demand for fuel. Brent crude was down 36 cents, or 0.9%, at $40.57 a barrel at 0055 GMT, after falling more than 3% on Thursday. US oil was also 36 cents, or 0.9%, lower at $38.36, having fallen nearly 4% in the previous session. US oil is heading for a drop of nearly 5% this week, while Brent is on track to fall more than 3%, in a second consecutive week of decline for both contracts. "The fundamentals of oil are not encouraging ... as supply rises and demand prospects look bleak," ANZ Research said in a client note. Rising crude supplies from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is weighing on the market as September production rose by 160,000 barrels per day (bpd) from a month earlier, a Reuters survey showed. The increase was mainly the result of more supplies from Libya and Iran, OPEC members that are exempt from an agreement to withhold production between OPEC and allies led by Russia - a group known as OPEC+. Libya's production has risen faster than analysts expected with the relaxation of a blockade by the Libyan National Army, which is trying to take control of the capital and is mainly based in the eastern part of the country, where many oil facilities are located. Output of crude from Libya has risen to 270,000 bpd as the country ramps up export activity, a Libyan oil source told Reuters on Thursday. New Covid-19 cases worldwide have rise to more than 34 million, nearly 2 million more than at the end of last week, based on Reuters tallies. This week marked the grim milestone of deaths exceeding 1 million and several countries are tightening restrictions and contemplating lockdowns as infections accelerate, prompting concerns about the impact on demand for fuel. Reports of increasing private gun ownership among radical Islamist Salafi groups have shed light on the risks of rising Salafism and individual armament in Turkey. Concern surrounding the armament of Salafi groups was set off when Muslim televangelist Ahmet Mahmut Unlu also known as the Cloaked Ahmet Hodja made headlines in early September when he warned Turkish authorities about the rising armament among Salafi associations. There are around 2,000 associations. These are taking up arms, Unlu said in a televised interview on Sept. 9, warning the groups were getting ready for a civil war. Unlu said he can name more than 200 of the associations. Unlus warning prompted Turkey's Interior Ministry to launch an investigation on the matter, with Turkish Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu saying Oct. 1 that Unlu would soon be invited to testify in front of officials about his claims. Although Unlus remarks have set off a broader public discussion on the subject, concerns over the Salafi presence in Turkey is not new. According to a 2015 intelligence report, Salafi ideology has around 20,000 supporters in Turkey. The warning also reflects a broader power struggle between Turkeys traditional religious communities and Salafi groups. For example, in 2019 a group of gun-wielding Salafists reportedly attacked members of an ultra-conservative religious order known as Ismailaga and wounded some of them in Turkeys Aegean coastal province of Izmir. According to theologian Cemil Kilic, the major reason behind this struggle is ideological differences. Kilic said Salafism, which constitutes the ideological basis of radical Islamist terrorist groups such as al-Qaeda, the Islamic State and Boko Haram, rejects Islamic orders. Salafism targets religious sects, believing that they undermine Islam. They are against Sufism, shrines, sheikhs and dervishes. They think Turkeys sects are not radical and that they are interest groups [pursuing their interests], Kilic told Al-Monitor. They also consider the AKP non-Islamic, he added. According to Kilic, Syrian, Afghan and Pakistan refugees with Salafi beliefs have played a role in Salafi ideology gaining ground in Turkey. Kilic said Salafism has especially grown stronger in Turkeys predominantly Kurdish southeast and eastern regions, with Salafi organizations reaching out to locals by opening teahouses, associations and foundations. Ayhan Akcan, a psychiatrist who sits on the board of the Umut Foundation, a leading campaigner against individual armament, said the real question is not who is taking up arms; rather, it is the extent of unregistered armament in Turkey. Akcan said some 26 million have access to firearms in Turkey, with only 4 million of those legally permitted. Ninety percent of private guns are unregistered. That means nine out 10, he told Al-Monitor. Given these figures, it would be naive to think it's only Salafi groups that are taking up arms. The government, meanwhile, failed to consider the rise as a threat until recently. The main oppositions proposal to launch a parliamentary inquiry on the matter was declined by ruling Justice and Development Party members in 2017. Furthermore, the government increased the maximum number of bullets allowed for each authorized weapon from 200 to 1,000 in 2018. The move has poured oil on the flames in a country where polarization is rife, according to retired Rear Adm. Turker Erturk. This means you can buy 3,000 bullets if you have three guns. This is a dangerous step, Erturk told Al-Monitor. He noted that the number of bullets retired army officers can obtain is still limited to 200. What does it mean? Are retired soldiers less trustworthy than civilians? Erturk asked. The government leniency on civilian armament began after the July 15 coup attempt. Ersin Kalaycioglu, political science professor at Istanbuls Sabanci University, noted that dozens of weapons distributed to civilians in the post-coup attempt period were never returned. Probably the government is now informed about how serious the situation has become and felt the need to take action, he told Al-Monitor. The governments recent efforts to curb private armament among radical groups are a step in the right direction, Kalaycioglu added: This is the first time the government is addressing this issue. Security expert Abdullah Agar said private armament among any organized group poses risks for internal security. Pointing out that all organized, outlawed groups such as Islamic State or the Kurdistan Workers Party have a tendency to increase their armaments, Agar told Al-Monitor, This constitutes a risk regardless of the number of armaments." He said all of these organizations are prone to manipulation through tactical actions, which in turn could lead to civil unrest, as happened in Iraq in 2006 when al-Qaeda attacked a Shiite mosque in Samarra. Agar also said arms smuggling to Turkey from Syria and Iraq has reached serious levels. Those smugglers are manipulating the people in the direction of their interests, he said. Whether the government investigation over private armament will be limited to Salafi organizations or not remains an open question. Police operations against Salafi groups might have alleviated the concerns of the religious orders in Turkey, but the presence of millions of unregistered firearms and rifles still continues to be a concern for the social peace and security in Turkey. President Barack Obama speaks as Vice President Joe Biden listens during a White House meeting in Washington on June 13, 2016. (Alex Wong/Getty Images) US Attorney Probing Obama-Era Unmasking Requests Resigns The U.S. attorney tasked with reviewing the litany of unmasking requests made by officials in the late stages of the Obama administration and the early days of the Trump administration announced his resignation on Monday. John Bash, U.S. attorney for the Western District of Texas, said he accepted an offer for a position in the private sector last month and informed Attorney General William Barr. Bash, 39, tendered a letter of resignation to both Barr and President Donald Trump on Oct. 5. Bash thanked Trump, Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and the attorneys and other staff members who worked under him. Through their tireless efforts, we have held accountable child abusers, drug-cartel leaders, gang members, bank robbers, embezzlers, fraudsters, scammers, and corrupt public officials. The exceptional public servants of our office have continued to perform at a high level during the national health crisis, he said in a statement. The worst day was Aug. 3, 2019, when a gunman opened fire at a Walmart in El Paso, Bash said. But there was nothing more soul-stirring than the way El Pasoans came together in the wake of that nightmare in a spirit of love and perseverance, he added. Barr said in a statement that he was grateful for Bashs service. Neither mentioned Barr directing Bash in May to review the unmasking requests. Presidential candidate Donald Trump approaches the podium to speak at a rally in Grand Junction, Colo., on Oct. 18, 2016. (George Frey/Getty Images) At the time, Department of Justice spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said Bash would review episodes both before and after the 2016 presidential election. The probe will shed light and give us a better understanding of what happened with respect to President Trump, his campaign, and, of course, what happened after he was elected as well, Kupec said. Unmasking refers to revealing the identity of a U.S. citizen in intelligence reports. The Department of Justice didnt respond to an inquiry about the probe, including whether it is complete or, if not, whether it will continue under another U.S. attorney. Unmasking data for the crucial time around the 2016 election was missing from transparency reports recently released by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Bash, appointed to the U.S. attorney position by Trump in December 2017, is being replaced by Gregg Sofer, a veteran Department of Justice attorney. Bash said Sofer was an inspired choice who built a reputation as a dogged and tremendously effective prosecutor. Barr said Sofer has served as an exceptional prosecutor for more than 29 years, devoting himself to the pursuit of justice and the protection of the citizens of this country. Sofer said in a statement that he was thrilled to serve the people of his home state as U.S. attorney. Breonna Taylor FamilyBy BILL HUTCHINSON, ABC News (LOUISVILLE, Ky.) -- Saying their fight for justice is not over, attorneys for Breonna Taylor's family asked the governor of Kentucky to appoint a new special prosecutor to reopen the case and slammed state Attorney General Daniel Cameron for "intentionally" not presenting homicide charges against three white officers who fatally shot the 26-year-old Black woman in her own apartment. The request was made in an open letter to Gov. Andy Beshear, and came a day after the public release of 15 hours of recordings of a three-day grand jury hearing which resulted in one officer being indicted on wanton endangerment charges, but not for Taylor's death. "Unfortunately, Cameron did not serve as an unbiased prosecutor in this case and intentionally did not present charges to the grand jury that would have pursued justice for Ms. Taylor," reads the letter addressed to Beshear and posted online by attorneys for Taylor's family. One of the attorneys, Benjamin Crump, posted a message on Twitter accompanying a link to the letter, saying, "This fight is NOT OVER! We DEMAND a new special prosecutor reopen #Breonna Taylor's case?" In the letter, the family asks for 10,000 signatures in support of the request, and as of Sunday afternoon, more than 7,800 people had signed. "It is past time for Louisville's and Kentucky's leaders to honor the value of her life by holding those responsible for her death accountable," reads the letter. Beshear, who appointed Cameron to be the special prosecutor in the case, has yet to respond to the letter. On Sept. 23, a Jefferson County grand jury indicted former Louisville police officer Brett Hankison on three counts of wanton endangerment in the first degree in a shooting that killed Breonna Taylor, but neither he nor the other two officers involved in the fatal encounter were charged in her death. The charges against Hankison were connected to bullets he fired that penetrated a wall of Taylor's apartment and went into the residence of a white family next door. Louisville Metro Police Department officers Myles Cosgrove, Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly and Hankison unleashed a barrage of 32 shots into Taylor's apartment while serving a warrant around 1 a.m. on March 13. Cameron said Cosgrove, who fired 16 times into Taylor's apartment, and Mattingly, who fired six times, were found justified in their use of deadly force because Taylor's boyfriend, Kenneth Walker, fired one shot at them first when they forced open the apartment door, hitting Mattingly in the upper thigh. At a news conference following the grand jury's announcement, Cameron said, "This justification bars us from pursuing chargers in Breonna Taylor's death." Cameron said last week that the only charge prosecutors recommended to the grand jury was wanton endangerment against Hankison, who was fired from the Louisville Metro Police Department in June for violating department policies during the shooting. Hankison pleaded not guilty to the chargers during his arraignment on Sept. 28. Jefferson County Circuit Court Judge Ann Bailey Smith ordered Cameron's office to release the recordings of the grand jury hearing as part of discovery in Hankison's case. On Friday, Cameron's office released 15 hours of more than 20 hours of recordings of what prosecutors presented to the grand jury. Cameron said he was "confident" that the recordings would show that his office presented a thorough case. "I'm confident that once the public listens to the recordings, they will see that our team presented a thorough case to the Jefferson County Grand Jury," Cameron said in a statement. "Our presentation followed the facts and the evidence, and the Grand Jury was given a complete picture of the events surrounding Ms. Taylor's death on March 13th." Much of the controversy in the high-profile case has centered on whether police officers knocked on Taylor's door and identified themselves as police before using a battering ram to force open Taylor's door. Walker claimed the officer neither knocked nor announced themselves before barging into the apartment. In a civil suit against the city and police department, Walker claimed he fired a warning shot with his licensed 9mm handgun because he thought the police officers were intruders. But Cameron said statements by the officers that they knocked and announced themselves were corroborated by one independent witness who was near Taylor's apartment when the warrant was being executed. Lawyers for Taylor's family say there are at least 11 other witnesses who never heard police knock on Taylor's door and make their presence known before entering the apartment. A judge approved a "no-knock" warrant based on a sworn affidavit from a detective that an ex-boyfriend of Taylor's was sending packages of drugs to her apartment through the U.S. Postal Service. No drugs were found in Taylor's apartment and lawyers for Taylor's family allege the warrant was secured with an affidavit that contained lies. During the grand jury hearing, detectives testified that although they obtained a "no-knock warrant," officers were told to knock and announce themselves because they were informed in a pre-raid briefing that Taylor's goddaughter might be in the apartment. The detectives also conceded that Taylor's ex-boyfriend, the target of the raid, was already in custody by the time officers arrived at Taylor's apartment. Hankison, Mattingly, Cosgrove and other officers involved in serving the search warrant all testified that they knocked on the door several times and announced they were police before entering the apartment. During his testimony before the grand jury, Mattingly said that when he entered the apartment he saw a man and a woman at the end of a hall and that the man was in a shooting stance. He testified that he heard a "boom" and "I can feel the heat in my leg." At that, he said, he returned fire. The grand jury also heard a recording of an interview police conducted with Cosgrove. In the interview, Cosgrove said he was standing in the threshold of Taylor's front door and was "immediately overwhelmed with bright flashes and darkness" and saw Mattingly fall to the ground. He said he opened fire upon noticing a "larger than normal human shadow" in the darkened apartment. Cameron said Taylor was hit six times by bullets fired by Mattingly and Cosgrove, and that an FBI ballistics analysis showed that the fatal shot that hit Taylor came from Cosgrove's gun. Prior to the grand jury's decision, the city of Louisville agreed to pay Taylor's family $12 million to settle a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Taylor's mother. The settlement also requires the city to institute a series of reforms in the police department in an attempt to ensure that a similar tragedy does not occur, including an overhaul of how officers obtain search warrants. Copyright 2020, ABC Audio. All rights reserved. Photograph: Michael Reynolds/EPA An increasingly desperate Donald Trump is aiming to win re-election not at the ballot box but through voter intimidation, courts and counting rooms, US activists have warned. Trailing rival Joe Biden in every opinion poll, there are fears that Trump, who has now in hospital after testing positive for the coronavirus, is betting on tens of thousands of volunteer poll watchers potentially including far-right militias and vigilantes as well as loyal Republican politicians in battleground states to save his presidency. Related: Panic and confusion permeate White House after Trump's Covid diagnosis Hes willing to do anything he can to fundamentally undermine democracy, any sense of integrity, any sense of decency, any sense of anything that any normal human being would think is acceptable in a real country, said LaTosha Brown, a civil rights activist and co-founder of Black Voters Matter. The threat prompted 12 Democratic state governors this week to issue an unprecedented joint statement defending American democracy and pledging that every valid ballot will be counted. During Tuesday nights first presidential debate, Trump told supporters to go into the polls and watch very carefully. He recycled false claims of widespread electoral fraud and added: I am urging my people I hope its going to be a fair election if its a fair election I am 100% on board. But if I see tens of thousands of ballots being manipulated I cant go along with it. White House handout photo shows Donald Trump working in his conference room at Walter Reed on 3 October. Photograph: Joyce N Boghosian/The White House/AFP/Getty Images The comments followed a recent video in which a puffy-eyed Donald Trump Jr warned darkly: The radical left are laying the groundwork to steal this election from my father, President Donald Trump We cannot let that happen. We need every able-bodied man, woman to join army for Trumps election security operation. To this end, the Trump campaign and Republican National Committee (RNC) are reportedly working to raise 50,000 volunteers. Yet most states have strict rules to prevent partisan election monitors interfering in the process. Story continues Brown said: This is another tactic to intimidate folks at the polls. Hes not interested in poll watchers; he wants poll intimidators. But its not going to work because the truth of the matter is there are more of us in this country that believe in democracy than there are of them. There have already been flashpoints. Last month Democrats accused Trump supporters of voter intimidation after they held a rally outside a voting centre in Fairfax county, Virginia. In Pennsylvania, a swing state, the Trump campaign is seeking to overturn a state law that requires partisan observers to be registered voters in the county. Maxine Waters, a Democratic congresswoman from California, told the MSNBC network on Thursday: Theyre subtly targeting minority communities, targeting low-income communities and making sure that they do everything possible to intimidate and frighten and keep people from voting. Weve got to see to it that the local police are there when his hoodlums drive up on their motorcycles with their guns. Trump fuelled such concerns at the debate when he failed to denounce white supremacists, telling the rightwing Proud Boys group to stand back and stand by. Katie Hill, a former Democratic congresswoman from California, said: I certainly worry that the purpose of this is to stir up trouble and to scare people away from the polls because of a very real fear of the white supremacists that are enabled and encouraged by Trump and his rhetoric. He just gave a call to action for the Proud Boys that are a known white supremacist group, that are known to carry weapons, that are known to be violent. If people are hearing that the Proud Boys are going to show up at the polls, some people are going to be afraid and thats exactly what they want to have happen. They want them to not vote. The RNC insists that its poll watchers will be trained and abide by state laws. But Democrats have hired voter protection directors in 19 states and plan to mobilise thousands of volunteers and lawyers on election day. Meanwhile demand for early and mail-in voting has risen sharply this year as people look for a way to cast their ballots without risk of infection by the coronavirus. Nearly 1.6 million Americans have already voted, according to the US Elections Project at the University of Florida. Early voters wait in line to cast their ballots in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on 2 October. Photograph: Dominick Sokotoff/REX/Shutterstock But Trump openly admitted to withholding funding from the postal service as a way to curb mail-in voting, citing baseless allegations of fraud. Republicans are also waging court battles to purge voters from registration rolls and, even when the votes are in, Trump has political and legal tools at his disposal. This week Republicans in Pennsylvanias state house of representatives drew up a bill that would create a committee with the power to investigate, review and make recommendations concerning the regulation and conduct of the 2020 election. The committee would be made up of five members, including three from the Republican majority in the House. Malcolm Kenyatta, a Democratic state congressman, warned a committee: This bill is a fraud. Democracies die slowly, and I think this bill would be a fatal blow to our democracy. In addition, the Atlantic magazine reported last month that the Trump campaign has been discussing contingency plans with Republicans who control state legislatures in battleground states to override inconvenient results by appointing loyal electors to the all-important electoral college. Such moves could run into challenges from lawyers and Democratic governors and prove a dramatic stress test for Americas system of checks and balances. Tara Setmayer, a political analyst and former Republican communications director on Capitol Hill, said: I think that there are still Republicans out there who are in positions like this that recognise the gravity of messing around with election integrity. In the states where we have to worry about that, Im confident that the Biden campaign and the Democrats have identified who those potential problem officials would be. They are stocking up on election lawyer experts to challenge if any shenanigans take place. They are fully prepared and thats where the courts, which are for the most part apolitical, and the judicial system come in, and may have to referee in places where shenanigans are pulled. Some analysts remain cautiously optimistic that the 2020 election will still be decided by the voters rather than by vigilantes, lawyers or state politicians. Myrna Perez, director of the Brennan Centers voting rights and elections programme, said: We need to take these threats very seriously but I also think we need to remember there are lots of protections and lots more Americans that want free, fair and accessible elections than want to intimidate and discriminate against voters. She added: We cant let those folks win. We cant let the intimidators and the discriminators deter the rest of us from exercising our fundamental right to vote. We need be prepared. We need to be ready. We need to do what we can to prevent it. We need to know what to do in case it happens. But the number one thing we need to do is make sure we still go out and vote. University of North Georgia (UNG) faculty members Dr. Eric Huddleston and Dr. Jim Konzelman had a simple idea. They created a laboratory experiment to teach students about polymer chemistry. Their simple idea gained the attention of students. A trio of them Ashley Allred, Joseph S. Holland and Avery G. Shupert collaborated with Konzelman and Huddleston to pen a paper about the lab experiment, which published in the American Chemical Society's Journal of Chemical Education in July 2020. It has been viewed 236 times. "I am happy for the students, because they were authors on this paper," said Konzelman, professor of chemistry at UNG. "It was my first publication in this journal as a faculty member at UNG." Konzelman and Huddleston paired up to create the experiment when they worked at UNG's Oconee Campus. Konzelman is based on the Oconee Campus while Huddleston is on the Dahlonega Campus. Huddleston, associate professor of chemistry, explained it started with nylon rope trick. "It's really cool to watch because it is like pulling rope out of a liquid," Huddleston said. Konzelman added a twist. He used another polymer to stick to the nylon and protect it from being stained. The pair then applied the experiment to real-life examples. "Carpet fibers are nylon and can get treated to repel stains," Huddleston said. "We treated one strand of nylon with polymer, which is a stain blocker, and one strand of nylon is not." The hands-on experiment gave students real-life experience with polymer chemistry. Konzelman said it reinforced the concept to students, which now has been shared with other chemistry faculty across the country through the paper's publication. In this article F An interior view of the Supreme Court shows the bench draped with black bunting in honor of the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in Washington, U.S., in this handout photo released to Reuters on September 20, 2020. Collection of the Supreme Court | Reuters Less than 45 days before the election, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed on, leaving her seat open to a contentious fight that could remake the Supreme Court for generations to come as well as Main Street. A case this week exemplifies the wonky, under-the-radar policy changes that could have major implications for small businesses, who are pinned against corporations that the conservative majority has all too frequently favored. Yet this case has an atypical showing of more than 40 state attorneys general lined up in support of small business, a unique yet critical alliance that is appropriately warning the court of the significant consequences an adverse ruling may have to the small business community, and what a consolidated pro-corporate majority could mean for the future. In 2015, Markkaya Jean Gullet's Ford Explorer rolled off the road as a result of a tire failure, landing on its roof and killing her in front of her husband and two young children. Earlier that same year, Adam Bandemer was in the passenger seat of a Ford Crown Victoria when its airbag failed to deploy, resulting in a traumatic brain injury from which he will never recover. It is clear that Ford Motor Co. should be held accountable for the irresponsible design, safety testing, and manufacturing which inflicted devastating harm. And yet, on Oct. 7, the company will tell the United States Supreme Court that victims of its defective vehicles should not be allowed to file lawsuits in their home states against the company, but instead be forced to go to an out-of-state court that is more convenient to Ford. The case does not hinge on Ford's guilt, but how difficult the corporation thinks it should be for someone to hold them accountable. As the conservative majority on the Supreme Court has continued to rule in favor of more corporate loopholes, or barriers for accountability, an under-appreciated but long term effect is an uneven playing field for small businesses. Small businesses take note: your health care, but also your bottom line is on the line with this next confirmation. Under the system that has prevailed for decades, a manufacturer that routinely markets its products in a certain state is subject to jurisdiction there. Large out-of-state manufacturers get all the benefits of operating within a certain jurisdiction, so they must also adhere to its laws. And states provide courts of justice for their injured citizens to prevent them from having to relocate because of a defendant's location. However, Ford is attempting to advance the argument that they can only be sued in the state where they are incorporated, have a headquarters or assembled the specific defective vehicle, regardless of where it was purchased, the residency of the driver or passengers, or where the accident occurred. More from Small Business Playbook Kevin O'Leary: How to know when to shut down a business How more million-dollar businesses can be created, even amid pandemic How to win a rent reduction argument with a landlord If that changes with this ruling, victims would no longer have access to their own courts, and a process that is already traumatic would become even more complicated and drawn out. If a court deems a victim's home location inappropriate, they would be forced to to either pursue accountability in the jurisdiction of the corporation's choosing, or more likely, target the local business they had been trying to support with their purchase, such as the local car dealership in this case or the local independent grocery store or boutique shop for faulty products. The added barrier to hold corporations accountable will ultimately mean small businesses are taking on the burden of corporate malfeasance. Currently, "innocent seller" or "seller's exception" laws protect small businesses, but a change in law would reverse that, transferring the burden of responsibility from manufacturers to individual retailers. Another burden for small business Small businesses would then bear the burden and expense of litigation not for their own accountability but as a proxy for a corporation, but unlike large corporations, they do not typically have access to litigation resources. If retailers have to start insuring themselves against product injury lawsuits, that cost will be passed on to consumers. Further, most small businesses do not retain the amount of capital needed to compensate victims and their families what they often deserve. The expense would be too much for them to survive. The only recourse for small businesses would be to sue the manufacturer, at their own expense, in the manufacturer's home state or country. No one would win except for the large, corporate manufacturer who created a dangerous product without any ramifications. In this case, despite the polarized nature of our courts, a bipartisan group of more than 40 state attorneys general have filed a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court against Ford in this case. They agree that corporations should not be allowed to invent new procedures to avoid lawsuits, and small businesses should not have to worry about being sued for a defective product they didn't create. With a potential conservative 6-3 majority with a new confirmation, we are looking at a Court that could exacerbate this trend toward corporate power for decades to come. Small businesses should be very vocal about being able to express their vote before a new confirmation is allowed. This type of case is exactly the sneaky, procedural pro-corporate rules that will be slipped in under an ultra-conservative Supreme Court in the future. Small businesses take note: your health care, but also your bottom line is on the line with this next confirmation. By Sarah Crozier, communications director at Main Street Alliance, a national network of over 30,000 small business owners. The group filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court in the Ford cases, which will be argued on October 7. NEW YORK (Reuters) - New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, to contain the spread of COVID-19 in what was once the U.S. epicenter of the pandemic, said on Sunday he is moving to shut non-essential businesses as well as schools in nine neighborhoods identified as coronavirus clusters, starting on Wednesday. Seeking state approval for the lockdown, de Blasio said it would affect nine ZIP codes where coronavirus positivity rates have spiked, sometimes as the result of failure to social distance and wear face masks. He said neighborhoods in another 11 ZIP codes were on a "watch list" because of their rising positivity rates. New York is one of only 18 states where cases have not risen over the past two weeks, according to a Reuters analysis. Nine states have reported record increases in COVID-19 cases over the last seven days, mostly in the upper Midwest and West where chilly weather is forcing more activities indoors. If New York Governor Andrew Cuomo approves the shutdown, neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Queens would be ordered to close all non-essential businesses, restaurants and public and private schools. About 100 public schools and 200 private schools would be closed for anywhere from two to four weeks, if state approval is secured, he said. De Blasio said those students in the nation's largest public school district who would be forced to participate in remote-only learning would be supplied with devices to enable them to continue classes, which previously had included in-person learning. De Blasio said the lockdown was aimed at alleviating worries that cold weather in coming months will force more people indoors and result in a second wave of deadly disease spread, reminiscent of the overwhelming number of COVID-19 cases that flooded New York City hospitals in the spring. "We need to contain the situation and absolutely we will avoid a second wave," de Blasio told a press conference on Sunday. He said schools were not the major source of virus spread. "Of two schools in one of these zip codes, only one test came back positive," de Blasio said. (Reporting by Barbara Goldberg; Editing by Lisa Shumaker) NEW YORK: Amid a new surge of COVID-19 in New Yorks Orthodox Jewish communities, many members are reviving health measures that some had abandoned over the summer social distancing, wearing masks. For many, theres also a return of anger: They feel the city is singling them out for criticism. The latest blow: an order Monday from Gov. Andrew Cuomo temporarily closing public and private schools in several areas with large Orthodox populations. It will take effect Tuesday. People are very turned off and very burned out, said Yosef Hershkop, a Hasidic Jew from Brooklyn who works for a chain of urgent-care centers. Its not like were the only people in New York getting COVID. Over the past few weeks, top government officials including Cuomo and New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio have sounded the alarm about localized upticks in COVID-19 after several months in which the state had one of the nations lowest infection rates. The officials say worst-hit zip codes overlap with large Orthodox Jewish communities in the citys boroughs of Brooklyn and Queens and in a couple of nearby counties. The goal is to head off a feared second wave of infections months after the city beat back an outbreak that killed more than 24,000 New Yorkers. Under the shutdown plan submitted to Cuomo by the mayor, 100 public schools and 200 private ones would be closed in nine areas that are home to close to 500,000 people. Those areas represent 7% of the citys population but have been responsible for more than 20% of all new infections over the past four weeks. De Blasio had proposed the shutdown on Sunday, the second day of Judaisms Sukkot holiday, when Orthodox Jews would not be using telephones or computers and thus wouldnt have heard the news until sundown. Announcing this in the middle of a Jewish holiday shows City Halls incompetence and lack of sensitivity towards the Jewish Community, tweeted Daniel Rosenthal, a state Assembly member from Queens. The emphasis on the Orthodox communities rankled many of their members, even as civic and religious leaders acknowledged the dangers posed by the new outbreak and urged compliance with guidelines. Many say they are already straining to balance rituals and traditions centered on communal gatherings with health rules. Rabbis and civic groups are trying to curtail the new outbreak. Last week, Agudath Israel of America, an Orthodox Jewish umbrella organization, worked with the Boro Park Jewish Community Council to distribute 400,000 masks. Fern Sidman, a journalist with the newspaper The Jewish Voice, said many families are canceling bar mitzvahs or planning to sharply reduce attendance. The Jewish Voice is urging compliance with health guidelines such as mask wearing and social distancing. However, its publisher, David Ben Hooren, said many Orthodox Jews in Brooklyn and Queens believe they have been unfairly targeted with stringent restrictions that arent being enforced elsewhere. The Jewish community feels theyre being singled out and theres some element of ant-Semitism, he said Monday. Not that I agree with it, but thats the sentiment in the street. Tensions are running high. Rabbi Avi Shafran, director of public affairs for Agudath Israel of America, said a majority of the Orthodox Jewish community is determined to do what is necessary to combat the coronavirus, and adherence to health guidelines has become much more common. He said his organization is discouraging family outings and gatherings this week as Sukkot continues. People must comply with any governmental directives that are aimed at curbing spread of the virus, he said. The latest developments have rekindled friction that surfaced in March and April, when some Orthodox neighborhoods in and around New York City were hit hard by the coronavirus. Hundreds of people died or were hospitalized, and lockdowns closed many Jewish schools and businesses. In April, de Blasio oversaw the dispersal of a big Hasidic funeral in Brooklyn and took heat over a tweet warning the Jewish community, and all communities against large gatherings. Some community members accused him of a double standard because of his support for gatherings linked to the Black Lives Matter movement. Why the upsurge? Some residents cited the return of Orthodox families from summer getaways at the shore or in the Catskill Mountains, and the recent reopening of some Jewish schools. Shafran said some community members, after the springtime outbreak subsided, lowered their guard with less wearing of masks and social distancing, and resumed exchanging of hugs with extended family. Many people, Shafran suggested, were lulled into the hope that the community had achieved herd immunity or that the threat had otherwise passed. Motti Seligson, media relations director for the Hasidic movement Chabad-Lubavitch, said friction between New Yorks Hasidic communities and the city Health Department had been simmering for years. One long-running dispute involved the citys efforts to restrict a specific circumcision procedure used by some Orthodox communities, claiming that it posed a health risk. In 2018 and 2019, measles cases spread in Orthodox communities in New York as well as other regions. As ripples of anti-Semitism surfaced, some Orthodox leaders felt the Health Department should have focused more on working with the affected communities and less on scolding them. Theres a lot of trust that has been eroded over a decade, Seligson said. You need much greater integration with these communities flood them with outreach, speak to every synagogue, every doctor. Asked about such criticisms, the Health Department issued a statement from Health Commissioner Dave Chokshi saying: Wherever we have gone, we have worked hand-in-hand with the community and we will always work to build trusted partnerships so that everyone knows how to protect themselves." Sarah Horowitz, a Hasidic resident of Brooklyns Midwood neighborhood, was angered by the possibility of new restrictions and what she felt was the heightened scrutiny of her community. Already, she said, she has been struggling to find the right balance of work and parenthood now that her 9-year-old daughters private school has been shut down because of the virus. Everyone is frustrated, she said after de Blasios announcement. We all feel targeted by the mayor. We just want our lives to get back to normal. Its like we are living under a black cloud. To an extent, the friction in New York mirrors developments in Israel, where the ultra Orthodox have been criticized for ignoring safety rules and crowding into synagogues even as the country battles a new COVID-19 outbreak. Israels coronavirus czar says the ultra Orthodox, who are about 10% of the population, account for around 40% of the new cases. ___ Fam reported from Winter Park, Florida. AP investigative researcher Randy Herschaft in New York contributed to this report. 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His comments came on a day when Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy left for New Delhi to participate in the Apex Council meeting on water issues on Tuesday and is also scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Jagan's meeting with Modi has led rising of political temperature in the state as speculation is rife that the YSR Congress may join the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), an assumption vehemently rejected by Srikanth Reddy. He said they were open for a discussion on joining the NDA if the Centre fulfilled all promises made in the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act and accords Special Category Status which were promised by during the bifurcation of the state in 2014 to carve out Telangana. Our joining the NDA is pure speculation. We have said (earlier) without fulfilling the long standing demands of Special Status, we cannot think about it (joining the NDA). "We are more concerned about the welfare of our state. If they consider all issues that are mentioned in the bifurcation (AP Reorganisation Act) act and announce special category status, then we will try to discuss that. We will start a dialogue, Srikanth Reddy told PTI. He, however, said there was neither any invitation from the NDA nor any proposal from YSRCP to join the alliance. Replying to a query, he said Jagan's meeting with the PM was purely for discussing development issues concerning the state and nothing to do with politics. The apex council, constituted as per the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, comprises the Chief Ministers of the two states as members and is headed by the Union Water Resources Minister. Differences have cropped up between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh in recent months over the construction of projects in both the states. One individual dies after a seaplane crashed into a pier in Queens on Sunday, which also resulted in two critical injuries, said fire officials. Devastating crash According to The New York Times, the aircraft was a small, single-engine Cessna and crashed around 3:00 p.m. west of the Throgs Neck Bridge located near Powells Cove Boulevard at 158th Street. Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro of the New York City Fire Department said that witnesses saw a plane flying relatively fast along the water's surface and skipped twice before hitting the concrete pier. The crash of the airplane left it broken in pieces. One witness who saw the incident unfold was a jet skier who was able to rescue two of the people that survived the initial crash. Several Fire Department personnel successfully rescued a third individual. Authorities said two others were injured, which include the jet skier, but were treated on the scene of the accident. Commissioner Nigro said that while the cause of the crash has not yet been determined, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) would soon arrive on the scene to investigate. The FAA's National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said that it would investigate the crash but noted its personnel would not be traveling to the area. Officials of the Fire Department refused to identify the victims, but Commissioner Nigro revealed that the pilot was a local resident in the area that was fairly popular in the neighborhood as someone who flew often. On Twitter, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio wrote about several details of the crash. He also called out to the people to send their regards to the victims and their families. Also Read: 11-Year-Old Commits Suicide to Comply with Perverted Online Challenge Survivors The pier where the aircraft crashed into was also near a children's play set, but authorities reported no injuries were discovered in the area, as reported by ABC7 New York. One of the witnesses, Laura Balviso, said she and her family were sitting in their home and heard a loud boom. They initially thought the sound came from a truck crashing, but her cousins quickly went outside and discovered it was an aircraft. The witnesses later observed several fire trucks rushing to the scene and saw officials dragging bodies out of the crash site. Balviso noted it was a frightening sight that she nor her family members had not seen their entire lives. She added they knew some of the victims and were hoping they were okay. Later, authorities identified the woman who died was 61-year-old Maggie O'Neill, and the pilot was confirmed to be 61-year-old Giuseppe Oppedisano, who is the owner of a Queens restaurant. The pilot and another passenger, who police only identified as a 66-year-old man, were already out of the aircraft when authorities arrived at the scene. According to a spokesperson for the New York City Fire Department, all three survivors were quickly rushed to the hospital to be treated. According to NBC New York, the jet skier who saved a passenger was identified as Jarrett Schupak, who said he immediately hopped over the fence and quickly ran over to the crash site, ripped the windshield off, and pulled out one of the people trapped inside. Schupak suffered minor injuries during the rescue. Related Article: 'Professional Shoplifter' Steals Millions Worth of Items and Sells Them Online @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 15:46:10|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close DHAKA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Bangladesh's export earning in the first quarter of the current 2020-21 fiscal year (July 2020-June 2021) grew 2.58 percent year on year to nearly 10 billion U.S. dollars, according to the official data released Monday. The Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) data posted on its website showed Bangladesh earned a total of 9,896.84 million dollars from exports in July-September, compared to 9,647.99 million U.S. dollars in the same period a year earlier. Of the total earnings, EPB data showed the country's income from ready-made garment items, including knitwear and woven, stood at 8.13 billion dollars during the July-September period of the current fiscal year. In the first quarter of the current 2020-21 year, the EPB data showed knitwear garment export growth increased 7.04 percent to 4.46 billion dollars while woven garments fell 5.78 percent to 3.66 billion dollars, comparing with the same period of last fiscal year. Bangladesh set its export target in 2020-21 fiscal year at 41 billion dollars, including 33.79 billion dollars from ready-made garment products. The country's export sector is limping back to normalcy after suffering serious blows in the last fiscal year owing to COVID-19 impacts. Due to the economic impacts of COVID-19 in Bangladesh and elsewhere in the world, Bangladesh export earnings in the past financial year 2019-20 sank about 17 percent to 33.67 billion dollars, the lowest since the 2014-15 fiscal year. Enditem Q: How are wildfires affecting the housing market? A: Monstrous wildfire seasons are becoming too tragically regular. This will impact how and where we live. Getting a Wine Country or Russian River retreat may look too risky if theres a frequent chance itll burn. Worse, if insurers refuse coverage for high-risk areas, many of the impacted areas will effectively become off-limits thus reducing the number of exodus destinations for people thinking about leaving the city. And while air conditioning was considered an unnecessary and rarely used luxury in the city, our new reality of having 30 spare-the-air days in a row is changing this. As more folks spend more time at home, many are wanting a/c at home because modern systems also filter the air a necessity as the number of spare-the-air days increase and you cant even open your windows when its sweltering outside. This dystopian vision will make us make relish clear days that much more, meaning that folks will want proximity to parks or seek out homes with green spaces of their own. Kevin K. Ho, Vanguard Properties, 415-297-7462, kho@vanguardsf.com; Jonathan B. McNarry, Vanguard Properties, 415-215-4393, jbm@vanguardsf.com. A: San Francisco quickly went from the escape room to the safe room. COVID-19 created a desire to leave San Francisco, while the wildfires have brought people back. Until recently, I found myself giving clients referrals to real estate agents in the wine country. Those same clients have since been evacuated and are hunkering back down in San Francisco. San Francisco has the lowest rate of COVID-19 for a major city and looks attractive again. I feel that buyers are now feeling better staying in big cities and have a better chance of preventing COVID-19 than dealing with wildfires. Wearing a mask and social distancing is easier to handle than frequent power shutdowns and evacuations. In the end, I feel that people are tired of the fires and evacuations. They are embracing urban areas again that have walkability, convenience and close proximity to schools, dining, and shopping even if its all six feet apart. Ron Abta, Polaris Realty, 415-595-7661, ron@polaris-re.com. A: With anxiety already high from the pandemic and the election, the fires became the final straw for some clients who now plan to leave the state, or at least the highest fire-risk areas. Others were only temporarily dissuaded from looking at properties during periods of extremely bad air quality. The specific impact of the fires of course depends on how close you are to them, both physically, and in time. For properties very near the fires there are new issues during transactions: Lenders are conducting drive-bys before funding to be sure the structure is still standing. Obtaining fire insurance now requires that the property be a certain distance from an active fire, and the fire must be largely contained before a policy will be issued. In the Berkeley/Oakland/Alameda area where I work, many buyers are actively avoiding the hills. This is not a new trend, just a more pronounced one. Insurance is a factor: In high fire zones it became substantially more expensive and more difficult to obtain after last years firesthat trend continues. Simultaneously there are buyers who purposely purchased in hill areas of Berkeley and Oakland, believing they are getting a better value by being contrarians. Arlene Baxter, Red Oak Realty, 510-717-1799, eastbay.bungalows@gmail.com. PANAMA CITY, Fla., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In the two years since Category 5 Hurricane Michael devastated the Florida Panhandle on October 10, 2018, the recovery and rebuilding programs driven by the City of Panama City and its citizens have achieved impressive results even as a wide range of funding from federal and state programs, along with private sector development, are poised to accelerate in 2020 and beyond. "From short-term disaster recovery assistance to the opportunity to fundamentally re-imagine our community for the next century, the challenges and opportunities of the last 24 months have been extraordinary," Mayor Greg Brudnicki said. "Without the unparalleled collaboration our community along with strong state and federal leaders, this progress and momentum simply would not have been possible." To implement its Long-Term Recovery Plan, Panama City is leveraging a myriad of federal and state recovery programs to deliver results, including: More than $100 million to reimburse the cost to remove 40 years of debris in the 18 months following the storm; initiate the repair and replacement of the city's water, sewer, and other key and vital infrastructure; and repair the city's parks and playgrounds. to reimburse the cost to remove in the 18 months following the storm; initiate the repair and replacement of the city's water, sewer, and other key and vital infrastructure; and repair the city's parks and playgrounds. Close to $40 million in state funding to establish the ReHouse Bay initiative to help Panama City and Bay County residents secure affordable housing. With direct financial assistance of up to $50,000 for down payments and closing costs , to repair and recovery aid, to help preventing foreclosure and short-term mortgage assistance, to short-term rental assistance, along with other options, these programs are key to the city's long-term growth and position as a desirable and affordable place to live. Launched in June 2020 , ReHouse Bay, has already provided help to more than 300 applicants with hundreds more in the pipeline. in state funding to establish the initiative to help and residents secure affordable housing. With direct financial assistance of up to , to repair and recovery aid, to help preventing foreclosure and short-term mortgage assistance, to short-term rental assistance, along with other options, these programs are key to the city's long-term growth and position as a desirable and affordable place to live. Launched in , ReHouse Bay, has already provided help to more than with hundreds more in the pipeline. More than 5,000 houses currently in development or under construction. Given the length of time required to apply for, and then receive these funds, the Panama City government has regularly had to invest in these efforts directly and then apply for substantial reimbursements, which continue to be received. In parallel, the City has seized the momentum to turn the massive rebuilding effort into a positive opportunity to reimagine Panama City for generations to come with a wide range of initiatives: In April 2019 , the City embarked on a citizen-driven effort through its ReBuildPC program to shape anew the City's historic downtown and waterfront that brought hundreds of members of the community together through in-person participants via open microphone sessions, bus tours, surveys, and hands-on work with maps to draft this critical blueprint (and even more got involved via social media). Over the summer in 2020, similar design charrettes were held in three more of the City's historical neighborhoods. , the City embarked on a citizen-driven effort through its program to shape anew the City's historic downtown and waterfront that brought hundreds of members of the community together through in-person participants via open microphone sessions, bus tours, surveys, and hands-on work with maps to draft this critical blueprint (and even more got involved via social media). Over the summer in 2020, similar design charrettes were held in three more of the City's historical neighborhoods. Proudly, there are 3,288 businesses operating in Panama City 171 more than there were before the hurricane, with 436 businesses opening in just the last two years. in 171 more than there were before the hurricane, with 436 businesses opening in just the last two years. From Suzuki Marina Technical Center ; to Clark and Son Inc. , a cabinet company located in Port Panama City's Intermodal Distribution Center; to Eastern Shipbuilding's expansion; businesses of all sizes are moving into Panama City . ; to , a cabinet company located in Intermodal Distribution Center; to expansion; businesses of all sizes are moving into . Inauguration by Verizon of its 5G service in Panama City , one of the first five cities in the U.S. to have this high speed connectivity. service in , one of the first five cities in the U.S. to have this high speed connectivity. In August 2020 , The St. Joe Company and Panama City announced a long-term land lease to bring a new hotel and restaurant to Panama City's downtown waterfront district. This agreement comes after nearly two years of planning, discussions and public meetings between St. Joe, the City and local residents. Under the terms of the lease, St. Joe will pay rent to the city based on the performance of the planned hotel and restaurant. St. Joe intends to fund the hotel and restaurant project without any City or public funding. , and announced a long-term land lease to bring a new hotel and restaurant to downtown waterfront district. This agreement comes after nearly two years of planning, discussions and public meetings between St. Joe, the City and local residents. Under the terms of the lease, St. Joe will pay rent to the city based on the performance of the planned hotel and restaurant. St. Joe intends to fund the hotel and restaurant project without any City or public funding. A planned $55 million investment in the Port of Panama City will expand the facility and, with dredging, make it a deeper water port. investment in the will expand the facility and, with dredging, make it a deeper water port. Addition of new municipal parks and playgrounds , including a skate park and Ninja Warrior -style equipment. , including a skate park and -style equipment. A new boat ramp at Carl Gray Park , with additional improvements on the way for 2021. , with additional improvements on the way for 2021. Launch of the City's ReTreePC initiative that, to date, has planted or given away 5,100 new trees and is on track to meet its 2023 goal of planting 100,00. "Along with my City Commission colleagues, our City Manager, and most important of all our residents and businesses, thank you for the incredible work you've done over the last two years," Mayor Brudnicki said. "And with the sturdy foundation of added financial resources, community engagement, growth across the business community, and expansion of housing opportunities, Panama City's ascendance as the premier city in the Florida Panhandle is assured." Contact: Caitlin Lawrence 850-872-3001 [email protected] Or Stephen Finan 410-841-4992 [email protected] SOURCE City of Panama City Related Links https://www.pcgov.org Kate Bingham told the Financial Times less than half of the UK population will get a coronavirus vaccine if one is produced Less than half of Britain will get vaccinated against Covid-19, according to the head of the country's vaccine task-force. Kate Bingham claimed ministers are hoping around 30million people will receive the potentially life-saving jab, out of a total of almost 67million. She said 'we just need to vaccinate everyone at risk', revealing that no-one under the age of 18 will receive a dose. Ms Bingham told the Financial Times that vaccinating everyone was 'not going to happen'. Care home residents and staff will be the first to get a Covid-19 vaccine when one is approved, government advice states. Everyone over the age of 80 and NHS staff will be second in line. Ms Bingham's comments come after Matt Hancock yesterday confirmed that the military would be involved in distributing a coronavirus vaccine. No 10 has already secured 340million doses of seven potential vaccines candidates produced by AstraZeneca and Oxford University; BioNTech and Pfizer; Valneva; Novavax; Johnson & Johnson; GlaxoSmithKline and Imperial College London. None of the jabs have yet been proven to work, and are currently in scientific trials. Experts say it is likely people will need two doses of each vaccine to be protected against the coronavirus. The head of the immunisation programme said 'we just need to vaccinate everyone at risk', meaning the most vulnerable, such as the elderly, will be prioritised (file photo) Ms Bingham, who was appointed chair of the UK's Vaccine Taskforce for Covid-19 in May this year, attempted to dispel claims that everyone in the British population would be vaccinated if a jab was proven effective against the coronavirus. It comes after months of ministers and other health officials claiming a jab could be rolled out by Christmas. The first promise was that it would be ready by September. Ms Bingham told the Financial Times: 'People keep talking about "time to vaccinate the whole population" but that is misguided. 'There is going to be no vaccination of people under 18. It's an adult-only vaccine for people over 50 focusing on health workers and care home workers and the vulnerable.' WHO IS PLANNED TO GET A COVID-19 VACCINE FIRST? Updated guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation states vaccines will be rolled out in the following order: older adults' resident in a care home and care home workers all those 80 years of age and over and health and social care workers all those 75 years of age and over all those 70 years of age and over all those 65 years of age and over high-risk adults under 65 years of age with underlying health woes moderate-risk adults under 65 years of age with underlying health woes all those 60 years of age and over all those 55 years of age and over all those 50 years of age and over rest of the population (priority to be determined) Advertisement Ms Bingham said vaccinations would be aimed at those 'most at risk'. She added that vaccinating healthy people, who are much less likely to have severe outcomes from Covid-19, 'could cause them some freak harm', the FT claims. It is not clear what she meant by this. But it comes after the Oxford's vaccine trials were paused earlier in September due to a serious side effect in a healthy, British woman aged 37. Experts, including No10's Chief Scientific Advisor Sir Patrick Vallance, and the chief executive of AstraZeneca, which owns the right to the vaccine, said the event was not unusual for a large scale experimental drug trial. It is hoped Oxford scientists will know if their jab prevents at least 50 per cent of infections, considered the threshold for success by the World Health Organization, by the end of this year. Ms Bingham said that if any vaccine was proven to be 95 per cent effective, which is thought to be unlikely given the short time frame scientists have been working in, it may be given to a larger number of people. Last month it was reported by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) that care home residents were among those who should be at the top of the list for a jab when one becomes available. Everyone over the age of 80 and NHS staff will be second in line, the updated government guidance stated. The body, which consists of 20 top scientists, advises ministers on all vaccines. It admitted its guidance for any UK Covid-19 vaccination scheme is likely to change in the future. Matt Hancock previously pledged that Britons with underlying conditions would be near the front of the queue for any jab. But millions living with heart disease or other ailments that raise their risk of dying of Covid-19 won't be vaccinated until everyone over the age of 65 is inoculated, according to the new guidance. The Health Secretary voiced his support for the prioritisation list at the virtual Conservative Party conference. He described prioritisation as 'important because we've got to get the vaccine to the people who are most likely to be badly affected by coronavirus first'. 'But it is also important because people can know in advance that there is a prioritisation and we will reach people when it is clinically right to do that. 'And then there's a huge logistical operation which we're planning, led by the NHS with the support of the armed services to make sure we have the logistics in place to get this rolled out as fast as it is feasibly possible.' Sir Patrick believes it is 'more likely' that a vaccine will be ready for the nation 'over the first half of next year'. He claimed in a televised address to the nation on September 21 that it is 'possible' one of the dozens of experimental jabs being trialed on humans could be ready by Christmas, insisting 'good progress' was being made. He said: 'It is possible that some vaccine could be available before the end of the year in small amounts for certain groups.' Meanwhile, it was reported over the weekend coronavirus vaccination in the UK could be just three months away and every adult could receive a dose as soon as Easter. The Times quoted Government sources involved in the vaccination process as saying they expect a full distribution programme to take six months or less after approval, but it could be even quicker. Last week a Royal Society report warned there would be significant challenges in distributing and producing the vaccine on such a mass scale. Nilay Shah, head of the department of chemical engineering at Imperial College London, and a co-author of the report, said: 'Even when the vaccine is available it doesn't mean within a month everybody is going to be vaccinated. 'We're talking about six months, nine months... a year. There's not a question of life suddenly returning to normal in March.' Matt Hancock told viewers of the virtual Conservative Party conference yesterday that the armed forces will be involved in the roll-out of the medicine in order to get it to as many people as possible. The Health Secretary told the virtual Tory conference that 'the plans are in train' to combine the NHS and the armed forces to make 'the roll-out happen'. Number 10 has already bought 340million doses of seven different experimental jabs, including the front-runner created by Oxford University researchers. The jab, being mass-manufactured by pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca, has yet to be proven to work but early studies have shown it is promising. Scientists working on the Oxford vaccine have suggested it could be approved by regulators before the start of next year. A Government spokesperson said: 'We want as many people as possible to access a Covid-19 vaccine and we are considering the advice of the independent Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation on which groups of people to prioritise. 'The committee's interim advice is the vaccine should first be given to care home residents and staff, followed by people over 80 and health and social care workers, then to the rest of the population in order of age and risk. 'An enormous amount of planning and preparation has taken place across Government to quickly roll out a safe and effective vaccine.' The pandemic is damaging to Trump because it has revealed his irresponsibility. He has been reckless with his own life and the lives of others. His approach to some public health matters has been determined not by deference to experts but by toxic masculinity, including a belief that masks are for sissies. His medical advice on Monday Dont be afraid of Covid will almost certainly leave some of his fellow citizens sick or dead. Trump embraced the early reopening of states with populist zeal but without any root in the science of pandemics. And the current burden of disease is generating shocking casualties among the vulnerable and elderly that the president seems to find acceptable, or at least unavoidable. Now it has come to him. An Offaly man is facing a lengthy prison sentence after he admitted to drug trafficking and money laundering and with conspiring to commit crime abroad involving 900,000 worth of Class A drugs. Thomas Maher, 39, originally from Clara but now living in Warrington, also pleaded guilty to conspiring with others unknown to import Class A drugs into Ireland between March 28 and April 6, 2020, when he appeared at Liverpool Crown Court last week. In addition, the father of three pleaded guilty to conspiring with others to the transfer of criminal property to Ireland between April 3 and May 11. One offence related to 300,000 and the other to 600,000. In a joint operation involving An Garda Siochana and the National Crime Agency, the accused was captured when encrypted phone messages were accessed by European law enforcement officers. He entered a not guilty plea to charges of conspiring to cause grievous bodily harm. He was described as a logistic man for organised crime groups who ran a haulage business in the north of England. Mr Maher will be sentenced on December 1. He was remanded in custody until that date. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu and reviewed initiatives by the two countries in a host of sectors, including agriculture, water and innovation. They also discussed their expanding cooperation against the COVID-19 pandemic, Modi said in a tweet. Spoke to my friend @IsraeliPM @netanyahu on phone. We discussed the expanding India-Israel cooperation against COVID-19. We also reviewed our initiatives in other areas like agriculture, water and innovation," he tweeted. The Prime Ministers Office added in a statement that the two leaders positively assessed the progress in bilateral cooperation in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the fields of research, field trials of diagnostic tools and vaccine development. They agreed on the importance of close cooperation in these important areas not only for the benefit of the people of the two countries but also for the greater good of humanity, it added. The leaders also agreed to continue holding regular consultations to share assessments on emerging regional and global challenges and opportunities and for providing guidance to advance the close and robust bilateral strategic partnership. During their telephonic conversation, Modi conveyed warm greetings to Netanyahu and the people of Israel on the Jewish New Year and the Jewish festival of Sukkot. Crowds gathering at beaches to enjoy the warm weather have stoked fears they could spread the virus, but evidence suggests they are among the safest places to be as long as everyone is social-distancing. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews warned police could close beaches after crowds gathered at St Kilda beach on Friday, many not wearing masks or observing social distancing. Dont risk everything, Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton wrote online. But there is strong evidence being outdoors is far safer than being indoors, as the virus simply does not transmit as well outside. There is also a correlation with warmer weather and a reduction in cases. And super-spreading occurs almost exclusively indoors. The ministry now plans to open a broad public discussion. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled The Finance Ministry has published the long-awaited plan of reforms, for which it is expected to receive 7.5 million from the Next Generation EU recovery fund. The goal is to help the country escape the middle-income trap and achieve 92 percent of the EU 27 average in the GDP per capita by 2030. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement These reforms can catapult us to a higher quality of life, Finance Minister Eduard Heger (OLaNO) told the October 5 press conference. Eight areas Titled Modern and Successful Slovakia, the reform plan focuses on eight areas: fiscal reforms; green economy; labour market and social sustainability; education; science, research and innovations; health; public institutions and regulations; digitalisation. Related article Related article Slovakia has a draft plan for spending billions from the EU recovery fund Read more The main objective of the fiscal reforms is to secure the long-term sustainability of the public finances and the anti-cyclicity of fiscal politics, and to increase tax discipline. The plan zeros in on the reform of the pension system, which should focus on the sustainability of the first pillar and the performance of the second pillar, as well as the public's awareness of pension claims, the SITA newswire reported. It is also important to introduce bounding expenditure caps and to change investment management. From the point of long-term economic growth, it is necessary to implement a tax reform that should result in a pro-growth tax mix, meaning that the property and environmental taxes should be increased, while taxes slowing down economic growth should be reduced. The reduction in greenhouse gases, the increase in energy effectiveness and the share of renewable resources, as well as the transition to a circular economy and sustainable transport are crucial for the green economy. In the employment and social sustainability sphere, the ministry proposes focusing on measures to reduce long-term unemployment (meaning that a person is without a job for more than 12 months) and increase the inclusion of disadvantaged groups, according to SITA. As for education, the quality of the teaching process, its availability and inclusion are prioritised. The reforms in science, research and innovations should help kick off the knowledge-based economy. The Finance Ministry also stressed the importance of health care for the quality of life, which is why the reforms should focus on the whole sector, not just some partial fields. Related article Related article All eyes are on Matovic. He is facing a major task Read more To improve economic growth, it is necessary to have a transparent, corruption-free and efficiently regulated environment. To achieve this, both public and private investments are necessary, as well as the development of human potential and economic stability. Changes to digitalisation of public services and the completion of the digital network are also vital to kick off the economy, SITA wrote. Public discussion to start The key factors in all these fields are Slovakias pledge to progress towards the developed economies, the ministry stressed. The document, prepared by analysts and public sector experts, was commented on by about 100 experts from non-governmental and business sectors. Related article Related article A struggle for billions from the EU starts in the coalition Read more By publishing this vision, a broad public discussion necessary for supporting societys demand for reforms and correctly-set investments starts, the ministry wrote. This means that people should decide which reforms should be carried out, Heger said during the press conference. The final document needs to be submitted to the European Commission by April 30, 2021, but no sooner than the respective legislation is approved on the European level. This may happen in January 2021, SITA reported. WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today released the results of a nationwide survey of Muslim voters on the upcoming presidential election indicating 89 percent of registered Muslim voters intend to vote in the November 3rd General Election and that 71 percent of Muslim voters say they would vote for former Vice President Joe Biden as President of the United States. Eighteen percent say they would vote to re-elect President Donald Trump. [NOTE: The independent live telephone survey of 846 Muslim voters was conducted the night after the first presidential debate (September 30). CAIR's survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.3 percent.] VIDEO: Watch CAIR's News Conference to Release Poll Results https://www.facebook.com/CAIRNational/videos/381730346327184 READ CAIR's Post Presidential Debate Survey of Muslim Voters https://www.cair.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/CAIRMuslimVoterPoll.pdf Highlights of CAIR's survey results, announced at a news conference this morning, include: Eighty-nine percent of registered Muslim voters intend to vote in the 2020 Presidential General Election, while only five percent are still undecided if they will vote. The percentage of registered Muslim voters who most closely identify with the Democratic Party decreased from CAIR's previous poll in 2018, from 78 percent to 66 percent. Conversely, Muslim support for the Republican Party increased to 19 percent compared to 17 percent in a similar CAIR poll from 2018. Seventy-one percent of registered Muslim voters said they would vote for former Vice President Joe Biden , while 18 percent said they would vote for Donald Trump . , while 18 percent said they would vote for . Fifty-nine percent of Muslim voters believe that Joe Biden won the September 29th presidential debate, while 14 percent think that Donald Trump won it. Twenty-one percent were unsure who won the debate, most likely due to its chaotic nature. won the presidential debate, while 14 percent think that won it. Twenty-one percent were unsure who won the debate, most likely due to its chaotic nature. Forty-two percent of registered Muslims voters consider themselves liberal leaning on social issues, while 34 percent consider themselves to be conservative. However, 42 percent consider themselves to be fiscally conservative, while 37 percent who consider themselves to be fiscally liberal. Sixty-five percent of Muslim voters believe that Democrats are most concerned with protecting religious freedoms, while 19 percent believe that Republicans are the most concerned. Sixty-seven percent of Muslim voters believe that Democrats are most concerned with addressing racial inequality, while 16 percent believe that Republicans are the most concerned. Seventy-two percent of Muslim voters believe that Democrats are the most concerned with providing accessible healthcare, while 15 percent believe that Republicans are the most concerned. Seventy-two percent of Muslim voters believe that Democrats are the most concerned with treating all immigrants equally, while 15 percent believe that Republicans are the most concerned. Of the registered Muslim voters that participated in CAIR's survey, 45 percent feel that the Democratic Party is generally friendly toward Muslims, followed by 44 percent who feel that it is neutral toward Muslims, and 14 percent who feel that it is unfriendly toward Muslims. Sixty-one percent of registered Muslim voters feel that the Republican Party is unfriendly toward Muslims, 24 percent feel that the Republican Party is neutral toward Muslims, and 16 percent feel that the Republican Party is friendly toward Muslims. Sixty-seven percent of registered Muslim voters think Islamophobia and anti-Muslim sentiment in the U.S. has increased in the past four years, while 15 percent of registered Muslim voters think Islamophobia and anti-Muslim sentiment in the U.S. has decreased. Eighteen percent of registered Muslim voters preferred not to answer the question. "Our survey clearly shows that more registered Muslim voters intend to vote in this presidential election than in 2016, and that the majority of those voters favor former Vice President Joe Biden in comparison to re-electing President Donald Trump," said CAIR Director of Government Affairs Robert S. McCaw. "That said, Muslim voters are equally social liberals and fiscal conservatives, indicating that both major political parties should be doing more to reach out to and engage Muslims in this and every election." CAIR's survey is just one part of an ongoing effort by the Washington-based civil rights organization to mobilize American Muslim voters. CAIR recently launched a new section of the 2020 election and voter mobilization website for "Early Voting" and updated its "Vote-by-Mail Guide" to mark National Voter Registration Day for 2020. SEE: Muslims.Vote If you believe your voting rights have been violated while voting, please contact the Council on American-Islamic Relations at (202) 488-8787 or [email protected] NOTE: As a nonpartisan tax-exempt organization, CAIR encourages American Muslims to participate in national and state elections. CAIR does not support one candidate or political party over another. CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims. La mision de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprension del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos. END CONTACT: CAIR Government Affairs Department Director Robert S. McCaw, 202-742-6448, [email protected]; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, [email protected]; CAIR Communications Coordinator Ayan Ajeen, [email protected] SOURCE Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Related Links http://www.cair.com House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said there had been "progress" on economic stimulus deal but also blamed Republicans for ongoing delays. On Saturday, President Donald Trump pushed for the stimulus deal through a tweet. "OUR GREAT USA WANTS & NEEDS STIMULUS. WORK TOGETHER AND GET IT DONE," he wrote. In an interview with CBS News' Face the Nation, Pelosi was asked if the tweet meant a stimulus deal had been reached. But she said that wasn't the case. She said there was progress and they were closer to a deal, but there were delays. For her, those delays were being caused by Republicans holding up further stimulus. "It just depends on if they understand what we have to do to crush the virus," Pelosi said. Newsweek reached out to White House negotiators for comment, but they did not respond as of their time of publication. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell suggested on Saturday that he's spoken with Trump about the stimulus during a phone conversation. Trump is currently hospitalized at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after being diagnosed with COVID-19. In a tweet, he said the president "sounds well and says he's feeling good." He added that they talked business on the phone. Some of their topics included fighting the pandemic, confirming Judge Amy Coney Barrett and the economy. The "Progress" of Stimulus Deal Talks Stimulus deal talks have been around since summer. It seeks to address the economic fallout of the pandemic, but it has been riddled with arguments since. While lawmakers were quick to agree on passing a $2 trillion CARES Act in March, talks on the second round of the stimulus was filled with disagreement. In May, the Democrat-controlled House passed a $3 trillion HEROES Act. But this was rejected by the GOP-controlled Senate. Negotiations remained on a standstill until late July. During that time, McConnell revealed the HEALS Act. It was a $1 trillion plan that failed to even garner Republican support to pass in the Senate. Similarly, Republicans also tried to pass a much smaller package, which was also unsuccessful. The Cause of Delays, Disagreements The stimulus deal is riddled with many disagreements but with the same bottom line: the price of the stimulus deal. Many members of the GOP are concerned that the price tag of stimulus packages is very high. Disagreements also remain over what should be funded and by how much. Both sides of the aisle want a fresh round of $1,200 direct stimulus checks to most Americans. Both sides also want unemployment benefit for jobless workers, but prices vary from one proposal to the next. Come Thursday evening; the House passed a $2.2 trillion package amid unsuccessful negotiations. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Pelosi, who are leading stimulus talks, have failed to reach an agreement. Mnuchin tried to put forward a $1.62 trillion proposal as a compromise, but Pelosi won't budge. Disagreements still loom on the stimulus talks. Before the House voted on their $2.2 trillion proposals, Mnuchin said Trump had already asked for a higher price tag from them. That is why they put the trillion-dollar offer on the table. Pelosi remains hopeful that talks will continue regarding the stimulus. She added that, with Trump's COVID-19 diagnosis, Republicans might "see the reality" of the pandemic. She is hoping there will be changes in the shape of stimulus talks as Trump himself faces the "vicious virus." Check these out! Pelosi Says Trump COVID-19 Diagnosis Adds Urgency to Stimulus Talks Trump Could End Hospital Stay as Early as Monday, Doctors Say Election: What Happens if Trump Becomes Too Sick to Lead the US? Insurance carriers could increasingly target insurtechs for acquisition and partnerships in the coming months due to pandemic-related economic uncertainty, according to a report. As insurers move toward late 2020 and into 2021, we believe there may be an increase in insurance carriers acquiring and partnering with insurtechs, consultants at Deloitte said in a 2020 Insurance M&A Midyear Update. The reasons: Carriers are attempting to respond quickly to pandemic-driven digital demands, and insurtechs are displaying flexibility about their futures during uncertain times. Insurtechs may have a greater willingness to partner or be acquired due to the uncertain economic outlook, and carriers seeking to quickly respond to a rapidly changing world (such as an increased need for virtual or touchless claims) may find insurtech investment a more appealing allocation of capital than investing in the current low-interest-rate environment, the Deloitte report concluded. Triple Threat: Carrier-Insurtech-Agency Partnerships Can Transform Commercial Lines The pandemic has raised the stakes. Carriers and agents need to be able to do much, if not all, of the following: market, sell, bind and service commercial lines insurance online. For insurtechs, being acquired isnt the only M&A option. Some insurtech have themselves already acquired small carriers. Hippo, a property/casualty insurance personal lines broker, bought the carrier Spinnaker in June for an undisclosed price. Another example is the workers compensation insurtech Pie Insurance, which raised $127 million in May and then earmarked most of the money to buy a licensed insurance company or start a new one. Deloitte said both companies show insurtechs could pursue acquisitions in the months ahead, but its unclear whether the trend will mushroom. Industry insiders have speculated for months that the pandemic may accelerate insurtechs willingness to be acquired after forming collaborations and partnerships with carriers. The trend was already in play, but the coronavirus pandemic has accelerated it considerably, Martha Notaras, a managing partner at insurtech investor Brewer Lane Ventures, said during an interview that was part of Carrier Managements InsurTech Virtual Summit in early May. Some of the strategic relationships that have forged over time may result in actual insurers acquiring [companies from] some of the close relationships that theyve had, Notaras said. She also noted the pandemic-related fundraising challenges for some insurtech startups could also spur merger activity. I dont think everyone will get funded, Notaras said. I think some of those people will have to make tough decisions as to whether they are going to close down or whether they are able to find a home. Deloittes report said that insurers in general are now pausing from M&A activity due to pandemic uncertainties, but longer-term disruption could increase M&A pressures. Source: Deloitte Topics Mergers Carriers COVID-19 InsurTech Tech The entire country is on the brink of the toughest Covid-19 controls after experts recommended Level 5 restrictions for the next four weeks. Under Level 5, people will be asked to stay at home, except to exercise within a 5km radius. No visitors to homes will be allowed, although schools and creches will remain open with protective measures in place. Restaurants and pubs will only be allowed to open for takeaways or deliveries and only essential retail outlets will be allowed to remain open. Unlike the first nationwide lockdown, over-70s will be expected to manage their own movements and will not be instructed to stay indoors. Controls Expand Close Members of the Civil Defence at a test centre in Dublin yesterday / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Members of the Civil Defence at a test centre in Dublin yesterday The National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) is recommending the Level 5 controls for the next four weeks, however, the seeking of maximum lockdown nationwide has shocked the Government. The three Coalition leaders will meet Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan today. The Level 5 restrictions advice comes in a letter from Nphet, after a weekend that saw almost 1,000 new infections. Dr Holohan returned to chair an unusual Sunday conference of the team, a sign that the situation is regarded as serious. He had been expected back at his desk today, resuming the helm from Dr Ronan Glynn, his deputy, after taking leave for family reasons in July. There are now 134 people in hospital with Covid-19, the highest number since June. The upward creep in infections effectively now pits the Government against the CMO in a possible crisis for the Cabinet in its consideration of public health advice. "It is very difficult and tough on people. But as a Government we have to stand ready," Public Expenditure Minister Michael McGrath said yesterday. "Further recommendations from Nphet will be examined swiftly." Sources last night initially suggested that the Government would not defy any recommendation from Dr Holohan. But when Level 5 was recommended, there was a stunned reaction from Government with one source saying: "This has surprised Government, given its societal and economic indications." The request for additional restrictions will go to an oversight committee headed by the country's top civil servant, Martin Fraser, which would consider wider societal and economic impacts. The Cabinet subcommittee on Covid could then meet today. An incorporeal Cabinet meeting could then rubber-stamp any proposals. Mr McGrath had said he sincerely hoped further restrictions would not be necessary at lunchtime. "But I think we have to be straight with people. The numbers are deeply concerning and the current trend that we are witnessing is not sustainable," he said. "I know that people are weary. We are all weary. Everyone has paid a price in terms of their own personal liberty. Many have paid a very significant economic price because of the restrictions that we have had to impose, and the overall economic impact of Covid-19. "But we need to get on top of this and we need to do more. We all need to ask ourselves what more can we do to adhere to the public health advice, which we all know at this stage." A total of 364 new confirmed cases of the virus were reported last night. Including Saturday's figure of 613, the weekend total comes to 977. No new deaths were recorded, with the national toll standing at 1,810 fatalities. There have now been 38,032 confirmed cases of Covid-19, with cases now rising at 4-5pc per day and the R-number moving to between 1.2 and 1.4, showing the virus has not been contained. Of the cases reported yesterday: 100 were in Dublin, 55 in Cork, 31 in Donegal, 24 in Limerick, 23 in Galway, 17 in Clare, 14 in Sligo, 13 in Roscommon, 10 in Kerry, eight in Tipperary, eight in Wicklow, seven in Kildare, six each in Kilkenny and Offaly, five each in Cavan, Mayo and Meath, with the remaining 27 cases occurring in nine counties. Infectious disease specialist, Professor Sam McConkey, told the Herald that what is required is really rapid contact tracing and massive investment in public health, "so when we get down to small numbers again from social distancing, we are able to catch the source of every case, and when you find one case, you can find all of the linked cases. Cross "This is like putting out a wildfire in a forest. There is no point in putting out the main fire if you haven't found every little fire and put all the little fires around it out as well. "We need to focus on prevention. By using social distancing over a number of weeks, we can get the number under control again." Separately, over 300 people gathered in a supermarket car park in Tullamore at the weekend for a 'car meet' which took gardai two hours to disperse. Footage released by gardai showed around 300 vehicles parked in the car park Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 12:52:27|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- China's catering sector warms up as the country celebrates the first extended holiday since the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic, data showed. According to data from Meituan, a major e-commerce platform for services, online restaurant reservations for the national holiday, an eight-day holiday that began on Oct. 1, surged by 37 percent year on year, and hotpot, barbecue and Western food were among the most popular choices. In the fortnight before the holiday, dine-in orders nationwide already saw an over 40-percent year-on-year increase, data from the platform showed. Meituan estimated that reservations for family dinners will rise 129 percent year on year during the holiday, as this year's National Day coincides with Mid-Autumn Festival, the latter being an important traditional Chinese festival for family reunions. Sales of food delivery platforms in the city also reported marked expansion, and businesses in the sector introduced new dishes and services to cater to consumers' demand. Enditem New Delhi, Oct 5 : The narrative over the last one week has been of an ally unhappy with the seat sharing pact offered to it when the LJP and BJP leaders including Amit Shah met to 'sort things out'. However, when the LJP's Chirag Paswan decided on a solo show in the Bihar Assembly elections, promising a contest against the JD-U candidates while stressing no differences with the BJP, the logical question to ask is whether the LJP is being used to keep Nitish Kumar in check? Also, whether the 'ideological difference' cited by the LJP resolution is part of a larger scheme of things? Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, once the 'Susashan Babu' of Bihar known for constructing roads in a state sliding into lawlessness after Lalu Prasad Yadav's reign, has now come to be known for numerous potholes and mishandling of the migrant crisis in Bihar in 2020. The strong wind of anti-incumbency in Bihar against the JD-U was brought out as recently as late September in an IANS-C Voter opinion poll. According to the survey, about 56.7 percent voters are 'unhappy' with the government and they want change, while 29.8 percent are 'angry' with the government but do not want to change it. An anti-Nitish front by the LJP led by a 37-year-old talking about jobs and 'Bihari first' is likely to resonate among the young and restless. Another core vote bank for Nitish apart from the Kurmis, have been the women. With the Muzaffarpur shelter home case of sexual assault on girls very much fresh in the state's psyche, much of that vote bank is likely to desert the JD-U this time. In such a scenario, 'Modi se koi bair nahi, Nitish ki khair nahi' seems to be the overwhelming essence of the LJP's political posturing of anti JD-U, pro-BJP politics. The LJP Parliamentary Board-passed resolution also took a direct confrontational mode with Nitish Kumar when it read, "In many seats, there may be ideological fights with the JD-U where the public can decide which representative will keep Bihar's good in mind." However, the LJP shied away from fronting any candidates against the BJP. "We have fought elections against the BJP in Manipur, Jharkhand and even in Jammu and Kashmir earlier but in a friendly atmosphere. We have taken a conscious decision not to field any candidate against any BJP candidate in Bihar," Sanjay Saraf, LJP Spokesman, told IANS. However, when pressed on whether the LJP is part of a larger plan of the BJP to edge out the JD-U after the election, Saraf avoided answering directly. "Media has the freedom to draw the conclusions they wish to," he said. But the language of the resolution is more assertive than Saraf's statement. It promised a post poll alliance with the BJP to "uphold the developmental agenda of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi." It promises all winners will support the BJP to form a "BJP-LJP government". However, there is no mention of the JD-U there, quite predictably. The LJP goes the extra mile to clear itself. "There are no hard feelings between the LJP and the BJP". "For us, NDA means the JD-U and the BJP. The LJP has never been our poll ally. If they indulge in rumour-mongering, we can't help it," the JD-U's KC Tyagi told IANS. So, what is Bihar's political scenario today? Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Samata Party (RLSP) withdrew from the opposition Mahagathbandhan and allied with Mayawati's Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). So has Mukesh Mallah's Vikassheel Insan Party (VIP), a small party whose leader stormed out of the press conference of the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance). If that were not enough to worry the JD-U that it will spoil its votes, the LJP's emphatic and separate entry should ring alarm bells. In an open letter to fellow Biharis, Paswan junior wrote on Monday, "This is a decisive moment for the state of Bihar. It is a matter of life and death for crores of Biharis as we don't have any time to lose. Every vote cast in favour of a JD-U candidate will force your children to flee (Bihar) tomorrow." It is likely to resonate with non-BJP voters who are disillusioned and looking for a fresh alternative. Though the BJP has been consistent in its statements that its alliance with the JD-U is rock solid, the party leadership is not happy with Nitish Kumar negotiating so hard for seats even when Bihar's mood is against him. Also the JD-U staking claim to nearly a dozen seats where the BJP won in 2015 has only aggravated the situation. Come November 10, when the EVMs will be opened, if the LJP scores well, a LJP-BJP government sans the JD-U as the LJP's resolution states, may not be an improbability. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 21:38:52|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close LAGOS, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Two gunmen have been killed in an encounter with Nigerian troops in the northern state of Kaduna, a military official said on Monday. John Enenche, the country's military spokesperson, said in a statement the troops eliminated the two notorious bandits and wounded many others who had been operating on Abuja-Kaduna highway on Sunday. He said the encounter was in continuation of an aggressive operation to stamp out banditry and other crimes in the country. He added that the troops deployed in the Rijana area of Kaduna while acting on credible intelligence on the movement of some suspected bandits toward Abuja-Kaduna expressway swiftly mobilized to the scene and laid ambush along the route. According to him, troops overwhelmed the bandits with superior firepower and killed two while others escaped with gunshot wounds. Enditem US President -elect Joe Biden (Source: Reuters) While Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden is unlikely to prioritize a financial industry crackdown if he wins on November 3, he is expected to take a much tougher line than Trump and his former boss President Barack Obama. Banks and investors were preparing for a Biden victory over the weekend after Trump tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, in a blow for his campaign. Here are some of the key areas his administration and agency picks would likely focus on. THE COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT ACT The pandemic has shone a harsh spotlight on America's racial and wealth inequalities, galvanizing Democrats to use a range of policy levers to address the problems. Those include the 1977 Community Reinvestment Act, a fair lending law which gives banks regulatory points for lending to low-income communities. Biden has pledged in campaign materials to expand the rules to other sectors, including mortgage and insurance companies. HOUSING FINANCE Addressing the country's affordable housing crisis is a priority for Democrats and Biden. A Biden administration would likely halt the Trump administration's plan to release housing finance giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac from government control, a move Democrats worry would increase the cost of mortgages for middle and lower-income Americans. Biden has also pledged to review rules by Trump's housing regulator, which are meant to guard against lending behaviors which disproportionately adversely impact racial minorities or other protected groups. CONSUMER PROTECTIONS, CREDIT REPORTING Biden has called for a robust Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which was created following the 2009 financial crisis but has been less aggressive under Trump. Biden has endorsed stricter oversight of consumer lending and called for a crackdown on discriminatory lending practices. Among his most eye-catching policies is the creation of a public credit reporting agency to compete against the likes of Equifax and TransUnion. According to Biden's campaign materials, the new agency would aim to "minimize racial disparities" in credit reporting after some studies found the current system disadvantages and excludes minorities. CLIMATE CHANGE RISKS Influential Democratic lawmakers and policy experts are pushing hard for public corporations to be required to disclose climate change risks to their businesses and for such risks to be incorporated into the financial regulatory system. Biden has called for swift action to address climate change and policy experts believe his agency picks will pursue these ideas. BANKRUPTCY REFORM In a policy about-face, Biden has adopted a bankruptcy reform plan pushed by consumer advocate Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren which he previously opposed as a Senator. The proposal would make it easier for Americans to pursue bankruptcy and shield assets like houses and cars from debtors during the process. Such a plan, though, would require legislation which would require a Democratic majority in the Senate. POSTAL BANKING Biden has expressed support for a long-held progressive policy to get the US Postal Service to provide basic banking services. Progressives say the plan would reduce economic inequality by allowing "unbanked" Americans to access reasonably priced banking services and credit, allowing them to shun predatory lenders and expensive check cashing services. The banking industry, though, is opposed to the creation of a taxpayer funded competitor and would fight the plan. Chicago Armenians, Greeks and Assyrians Take to the Streets for Armenia It is often said that Armenians always come together in hard times. In this current state of crisis, we are once again showing that this is true. When our brothers and sisters in Armenia woke up to a war on September 27, the diaspora was with them. So many of us have friends and family in Armenia and Artsakh, and we know the grave danger that our homeland was in. Seeing the brave resilience of the soldiers and civilians in Armenia, we sprang into action. With the wounds of the Genocide still open in our hearts, we know that this war is an attempt to finish the job. And, as Nareen Melkonian Touloumdjian said in her poem "Futile," "My grandchildren will NOT chant '2020 never again!'" After a week of organizing, the Chicago Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) "Ararat" Chapter and Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) "Christapor" Gomideh organized a protest against Azeri aggression and showing support for Artsakh. ARF and AYF members were joined by members of Homenetmen, Hamazkayin, local church congregations, the AGBU, University of Chicago students and other community members and organizations. We were also joined by representatives of Chicago's Greek and Assyrian communities, who have likewise been the victims of Turkish genocide and aggression, and stand in solidarity with Armenia. The demonstration was over 150 people strong, exemplifying unity and strength to fight for peace in the face of enormous adversity. The protest began at the NBC Tower, where Chicago's Turkish Consulate is located. After about an hour moved, the demonstration moved down to the Pioneer Court Plaza on Michigan Avenue, a heavily trafficked area in the heart of downtown Chicago. The event featured three speakers: Hellenic American Leadership Council executive director Endy Zemenides, AYF representative Areni Artinian and ARF representative Hagop Soulakian. They spoke about the current conflict, including educating the public and sharing our fears, our pleas and our strength. Members also handed out flyers and spoke with pedestrians, educating them about the situation and the threat of a second Armenian Genocide. We received support from passing people and cars and will continue to raise our voices to garner support in our Armenian and non-Armenian communities alike. The protest was an emotional event, a much-needed physical gathering, where we were able to march side by side and see the faces of the Armenians who are grieving, anxiously checking the news reports and fighting with us every day. "It's my duty as an Armenian, regardless of where I'm living, to come out and demonstrate my support for Armenia and Artsakh. Today I'm fighting for our soldiers in Artsakh and Armenia who are putting down their lives in the name of their homeland," said Shant Armenian, AYF novice and University of Chicago student. We will continue to stand with our brothers and sisters who are fighting on the border, organizing in Armenia, closing the streets in Los Angeles, and getting on flights to defend the homeland. We will continue organizing our communities, raising awareness, raising funds, taking political action and doing everything in our power to defend our right to live in peace. Representative image Dalit organisations will protest across Karnataka on October 5 against the alleged gangrape and murder of a 19-year-old woman in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras. The protests will be organised across 23 districts in the state for the dismissal of the Uttar Pradesh government, state convener of Karnataka Rajya Dalitha Rajya Sangharshana Samithi Laxminarayana Nagawar told The New Indian Express. The state organisation is also planning to join the national-level committee and go for an agitation strike across the country if no action is taken, said the report. The 19-year-old woman was allegedly raped by four men on September 14. After her condition deteriorated, she was referred to Delhi's Safdarjung hospital where she breathed her last on September 29. She was cremated in the early hours of September 30, with her family alleging that the local police forced them to conduct the last rites in the dead of night. The Congress will also stage a 'satyagraha' in the district headquarters of states across the country on the day to demand justice for the family of the Hathras victim. Also Read | Rapes can only be prevented with sanskaar not shasan: UP BJP MLA "The Pradesh Congress Committees will be organising silent Satyagraha sit-in, at Mahatma Gandhi/Ambedkar statues and any other place of significance, against the brutal and arbitrary actions of the UP Government, demanding justice for the victim and her family," AICC general secretary, Organisation, KC Venugopal said in a statement. Congress senior leaders, MPs, MLAs, office bearers, party functionaries and ordinary workers will participate in full strength in the protest, said Venugopal. The Rajasthan Congress Committee will hold a two-hour 'maun satyagraha' (silent protest) at the district headquarters level from 10 am to 12 am on the day in protest against the incident of Hathras. On October 4, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra visited Hathras and met the family of the Hathras victim. Dr. Anthony Fauci said he is not involved with Donald Trump's medical care amid questions about the president's treatment and the level of severity of his COVID. 'I think it's obvious that I have not been involved,' Fauci told CNN on Monday morning. The president checked into Walter Reed Medical Center on Friday evening after testing positive for the coronavirus. The White House has offered mix messages about his treatment and state of his health. Fauci defended Trump's medical team, led by Dr. Sean Conley, a Navy commander. 'My colleagues that I know, including Sean Conley, are very good physicians and they're very qualified so I am really confident that the president of the United States is it getting the optimal care that you can get with the team over at Walter Reed,' he said. Dr. Anthony Fauci: "My colleagues that I know, including Sean Conley, are very good physicians and they're very qualified so I am really confident that the President of the United States is it getting the optimal care that you can get with the team over at Walter Reed" pic.twitter.com/zacuT8OWCx CNN Politics (@CNNPolitics) October 5, 2020 Dr. Anthony Fauci said he is not involved with Donald Trump's medical care Fauci defended White House physician Sean Conley and said President Trump was getting 'optimal care' Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, is a member of the White House Coronavirus Task Force and was a constant presence at briefings in the early days of the pandemic. But as President Trump pushed the country to reopen, Fauci did viewer and viewer public and media appearance. Trump, meanwhile, has stayed front and center even from his hospital suite. He's released photos and videos of himself at work and, on Sunday, he made a heavily criticized appearance outside the hospital, riding in an SUV to wave to his supporters. 'I don't want to really go there and comment on that,' Fauci said when asked about Trump's appearance. He did not that medical guidelines say a person is safe to go out around 10 days from the onset of symptoms. Trump is believed to have first had symptoms Wednesday or Thursday. 'The general guidelines are when is it safe for a person to go out from the time they get symptoms is probably around 10 days from the onset of symptoms,' Fauci said. Trump made the last-minute, surprise visit to his supporters outside Walter Reed Medical Center, driving by the screaming, applauding crowds in his presidential SUV. He waved to them from inside car and was wearing a face mask. In the front passenger seat was a person wearing full personal protective gear, including a face shield. Secret Service agents were also in the car. The president went into the hospital Friday evening after testing positive for the coronavirus. The White House said the president made a short trip and then returned to the presidential suite inside the hospital. 'President Trump took a short, last-minute motorcade ride to wave to his supporters outside and has now returned to the Presidential Suite inside Walter Reed,' White House deputy press secretary Judd Deere said in a statement. 'Appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the President and all those supporting it, including PPE. The movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do.' Medical experts criticized the president's decision, arguing he put his Secret Service detail, who ride in the car with him, at risk. Dr James Phillips, a Walter Reed attending doctor, condemned the president's Sunday afternoon drive, which violated Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines. He said it was dangerous and reckless, in comments which quickly went viral - gaining more than 100,000 'likes' and 40,000 retweets in the first hour. Trump was driven by his supporters where he waved at them from the SUV and he wore a face mask during the short trip President Trump briefly left his hospital room at Walter Reed Medical Center to thank supporters lined up outside the hospital Trump supporters waved American flags and Make America Great Again campaign signs outside of Walter Reed hospital Dr James Phillips, a Walter Reed doctor, was angered by Trump's Sunday drive-by to wave at his supporters Phillips, chief of disaster medicine at George Washington University's Emergency Medicine division, and a COVID-19 consultant specializing on how to reopen safely, said that the design of the presidential vehicle, specifically modified to protect the passengers from attacks, made the drive even more dangerous. 'That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack,' he continued. 'The risk of COVID19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. 'The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play. 'Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary Presidential 'drive-by' just now has to be quarantined for 14 days,' Phillips pointed out. 'They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity.' The CDC website explicitly states that COVID patients should stay at home except to get medical care. In their section advising healthcare workers, the CDC states: 'In general, transport and movement of a patient with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection outside of their room should be limited to medically essential purposes.' Other doctors took issue with Trump's medical team's rosy picture of his health. Doctors said the president's treatment with dexamethasone - a steroid used for patients who require extra oxygen - is the clearest sign yet that Trump may have a severe case of Covid-19. Several expressed surprise at the suggestion that he could be discharged from Walter Reed on Monday and return to the White House. Dr James Phillips, a Walter Reed doctor, reacted with anger to the president's jaunt on Sunday night 'People can be doing OK, but it can get rocky very quickly,' said Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Health Security. The experts told the Washington Post that Trump's medical team has withheld key information about his condition, and that he was on a 'kitchen sink' regimen of monoclonal antibodies, the anti-viral remdesivir, and steroids. 'For someone sick enough to have required remdesivir and dexamethasone, I can't think of a situation in which a patient would be OK to leave on day three, even with the White House's medical capacity,' Robert Wachter, chairman of the University of California at San Francisco's department of medicine, told the paper. The confusion about the state of Trump's health compounded to concern when Trump's medical team offered additional details on the president's treatment on Sunday, raising questions about the seriousness of his attack. Doctors said for the first time the president was given supplemental oxygen on Friday and was on an extensive drug treatment plan, many of which are given to patients in critical condition. It's unclear if Trump is receiving such treatment because his condition is serious or if because he's the president. His oxygen levels dropped twice since his diagnosis but never below 90 per cent, Dr. Conley said on Sunday. A normal oxygen reading is between 95 and 100 per cent. Conley also said the president received supplemental oxygen for about an hour on Friday at the White House and the drop - along with a 'high' fever - is part of what prompted the decision for Trump to go to Walter Reed. Conley, on Saturday, evaded questions on whether the president received extra oxygen. Additionally, Dr. Brian Garibaldi, a specialist in pulmonary critical care, said Trump received a second dose of the experimental drug remdesivir along with a first dose of dexamethasone, a steroid, on Saturday. Dexamethasone has been shown to help patients who are severely ill with COVID but it's not typically used in mild cases. In could be harmful early on as it could dampen the body's own immune response. On September 2, the World Health Organization recommended the steroid only be given to patients with 'severe and critical Covid-19.' Trump is in the high-risk category due to his age and weight. The White House now faces transparency problems as the conflicting information has given the administration and the medical team credibility problems as they brief the American people. COVID0-19: Iran reports record high new cases; Tehran shuts down cultural centers again 07/22/20 Source: Mehr News Agency The daily count of COVID-19 infections in Iran reached 3,902 on Monday, bringing the total cases to 475,674, according to the Health Ministry. Health Ministry Spokeswoman Sima Lari said that the respiratory illness claimed the lives of 235 people in the country in the course of the past 24 hours, increasing the death tally to 27,192. A total of 392,293 infected patients have recovered from the deadly virus and 4,167 are hospitalized in intensive care units. Iran has administered over 4.1 million tests to identify infections in individuals. So far, over 35.43 million worldwide have tested positive for COVID-19 and over 1.04 million have lost their lives. Tehran shuts down cultural centers again as coronavirus outbreak grows TEHRAN (Tehran Times) - The Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance has shut down all art and cultural centers across Tehran again for one week following an increase in the number of people infected with COVID-19. The lockdown includes all the public and gathering places such as the movie theaters, libraries, and art and music institutes, the Coronavirus Combat and Prevention Headquarters in Tehran announced on Sunday. The theater halls will also be closed for one week, the Dramatic Arts Center has announced. The closure will be observed for one week but might be extended if the incidence of new cases does not slow down. In August, the Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance Seyyed Abbas Salehi said that the coronavirus outbreak in Iran has caused an estimated loss of over 10,000 billion rials (about $45.5 million, based on the free-market rate) in the art and culture sectors by April 19, the end of the first month of the Iranian calendar year. "For example, the Tehran International Book Fair had an estimated sale of 1200 to 1300 billion rials (about $5.5 to $6 million) last year. In the film industry, the sale was about 3 trillion rials (over $13.6 million)," He said. However, the book fair was canceled this year, and Iranian movie theaters have mostly been closed over the past six months due to the pandemic. Salehi said, "We have also experienced a big loss in visual arts, music and theater, that is, about 120 theater halls have been closed just in Tehran. The same has been true in other cities." He added that insurance for the members of the Art Credit Fund, which was 350 billion rials (about $1.6 million), has been paid, and, based on an enactment approved by the Coronavirus Combat and Prevention Headquarters, those interested applicants can register for a facility. The culture minister further noted that a sum of 120 billion rials (about $5.5 million) will be paid to members of the Art Credit Fund as livelihood assistance, while 2000 billion rials (over $9 million) will also be paid as loans to the artists and owners of cultural venues. The ministry canceled all art, cultural and cinematic events across the country in February in an attempt to stem the spread of the coronavirus. The Association of Iranian Theater Owners asked President Hassan Rouhani to lift the coronavirus restriction on cinemas, calling for reopening of the theaters across the country based on the health protocols during the pandemic on May 20. Later, the Cinema Organization of Iran announced that the movie theaters in the so-called "white areas" or regions with no coronavirus hospitalizations in the past two weeks would be allowed to reopen, while the protocols issued by the Coronavirus Control Operations Headquarters for the theaters must be observed. The cinemagoers were asked to observe social distancing, while the employees were asked to wear face masks and plastic gloves. In late June, all movie theaters resumed activities after a four-month-long closure, but were forced to close once again due to a sharp rise in the number of coronavirus infections and deaths. "In exercising one's responsibilities, it is necessary to know how to distinguish good from evil. In fact, even in the field of economics and finance, the right intention, transparency and the search for good results are compatible and must never be separated. Vatican City (AsiaNews) Pope Francis on Monday met with representatives of a top Italian investment bank, the Cassa Depositi e Prestiti, which is controlled by the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance. In his address, the pontiff said that "Christian thought is not opposed in principle to the prospect of profit; however, it is opposed to profit at any cost, the profit that forgets people, enslaves them, reduce them to a thing among things, part of a process they cannot control in any way nor cannot oppose in any way. Francis reminded the managers and staff of the investment bank, which is celebrating 170 years since its foundation, that the social doctrine of the Church proposes a vision that, whilst acknowledging the just remuneration of resources, urges investors to also fund initiatives that favour social and collective advancement. In light of the coronavirus emergency, the Pope is aware that it is necessary to set out certain lines of development. Let us are think about the challenges produced in the social and economic field by the serious pandemic still in progress, trends with significant repercussions, such as the decline of some forms of production, requiring a renewal or radical transformation. Let us think about the changes that have occurred in the way goods are bought and sold, with the risk of concentrating exchanges and businesses in the hands of a few global entities. Faced with such risks, it is necessary not to give in to corruption but to maintain a fair and clear conduct in the management of business. It is a question, noted the Pope, of identifying and courageously pursuing lines of intervention that are respectful, indeed supportive of the human person and society. "In exercising one's responsibilities, it is necessary to know how to distinguish good from evil. In fact, even in the field of economics and finance, the right intention, transparency and the search for good results are compatible and must never be separated. Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria on Monday said that India is prepared for any conflict, including a two-front war. We have deployed strongly in Eastern Ladakh. We are ready to take on the Chinese threat in Eastern Ladakh," he said. Addressing a press conference ahead of Air Force Day on October 8, Bhadauria asserted that the Air Force was transforming at a rapid pace. Matrix of threat facing country is complex, he said, while adding that emerging threats mandate us to have robust capabilities of the IAF. He said that while India has not come close to an airstrike against China, it is still prepared for it. The induction of Rafale jets has given us an operational edge, he added. His comments assume significance as India and China are engaged in a five-month-long standoff at the LAC in eastern Ladakh. Despite several levels of dialogue, there has been no breakthrough and the deadlock continues. A lot of what happens in Eastern Ladakh depends on talks. The progress is slow, but there is a clear intent on both sides," he said. However, the threat of a two-front war has intensified as ceasefire violations made by Pakistani troops at the LoC reached a record 17-year high. News18 had reported last month that a report tabled in the Parliament on the first day of the Monsoon Session found 3,186 ceasefire violations by the Pakistan Army this year along the Indo-Pak border from January 1 and September 7. Besides this, 242 incidents of cross-border firing took place at the international border during the said period. The record ceasefire violations by the Pakistan Army coupled with recent aggressions by Chinese troops deepened the threat of a two-front war for India. The border stand-off with China since clashes with the PLA army resulted in the deaths of 20 soldiers in Galwan Valley in June. The Chinese soldiers used stones, nail-studded sticks, iron rods and clubs in carrying out brutal attacks on Indian soldiers after they protested the erection of a surveillance post by China around patrolling point 14 in Galwan Valley. China in September said its five soldiers were killed in the clash during military and diplomatic talks with India at Moldo, said government sources. A top government source in South Block aware of the talks had told News18 at the time the actual Chinese toll would be much higher. Last month, both countries reached a five-point consensus to resolve the four-month-long military standoff in eastern Ladakh, agreeing to quickly disengage" troops, avoid any action that could escalate tensions and take steps to restore peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). In a meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Moscow, the Indian side clearly conveyed that it expected full adherence to all agreements on the management of border areas and would not countenance any attempt to change the status quo unilaterally, as per sources. The development of a stretchable display that can be bent, stretched, and attached to the skin as a free-standing film appeared in science fiction films is expected to be one step closer. The research team led by Prof. Tae-Woo Lee from Seoul National University announced on the 29th that they have successfully achieved a stretchable color conversion layer (SCCL) using perovskite nanocrystals (PeNCs) and applied it to stretchable displays. This study has made it possible to accelerate the development of next-generation stretchable light-emitting devices. (Advanced Materials,2020, 202001989). Recent advances in soft materials and cost-effective solution processing techniques have enabled the fast development of wearable electronics for visualizing signals from varies sensors attached onto human body. The stretchable display, as one of the key components in the body-net wearable system, is the most convenient media for real-time monitoring sensor signals. The materials that are commonly used for stretchable displays such as light-emitting polymers and quantum dots are unstable and prone to degrade when exposed to moisture and oxygen. The intrinsic properties of materials such as photoluminescence intensity and quantum efficiency will severely deteriorate after the exposure in air, leading to the formation of dark spots in the display. Hence, stretchable light emitting devices require an excellent stretchable encapsulation film to avoid deterioration in the air especially during stretching. New breakthrough through the development of stretchable encapsulation material is in an urgent need. Figure. Conceptual applications of stretchable displays for visualizing signals from wearable sensors, and 3D schematic of stretchable display that uses a stretchable color conversion layer (SCCL) integrated with a stretchable electroluminescent device (SELD). To solve the above problem, a team of scientists from Seoul National University, led by Prof. Tae-Woo Lee have developed an air-stable color conversion layer using PeNCs for stretchable light-emitting devices. PeNCs, when compared with other light-emitting organic materials and quantum dots, are cost-effective but highly efficient for light-emission. To prevent the degradation of PeNCs, the team used the SEBS (styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene) as a polymer matrix to improve both stability and stretchability of the film, making it possible to be used as the stretchable color conversion layer. PeNCs are effectively encapsulated by the SEBS elastomer matrix that can be stretched upto 100% and recovered when released. Remarkably, the photoluminescence intensity of SCCL increased to 225% after 70 days during the stability test in water; this is the first observation of moisture-assisted surface passivation of PeNCs. The team proposed an air-stable intrinsically stretchable light-emitting device which consists of an intrinsically stretchable electroluminescent device (SELD) integrated with the above-mentioned free-standing SCCL on top without using an encapsulation layer. This progressive research is published in the prominent journal 'Advanced Materials' (IF: 27.398). The authors explain further: "This work will expand the field of PeNCs that can be applied for stretchable applications and stimulate considerable research on fundamental aspects of PeNCs and furthermore into the practical applications in academia and industries." ### EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Lifetouch, a national school photography provider, celebrates National Yearbook Week with the unveiling of the first ever America's Yearbook, a digital display of more than 5,300 user-submitted school pictures from the past nine decades that transports viewers to eras past and shows us all how much we [still] have in common. The yearbook brings together people from across the country, united in the shared nostalgia of academic glory daysthe years that shaped who we are and helped us create memories that fill our hearts to this day. Nothing conjures up those all-too-fleeting years quite like school pictures. Thumb through the digital pages of America's Yearbook and you'll notice something interesting: We're more similar and together in our shared experiences of picture day than you might remember. We all wore the same perfectly-normal-for-the-time but in retrospect perfectly hilarious outfits, showcasing our personalities. Looking at generations of students taking part in an annual rite of passage, all in that same, ready-for-our-close-up pose, it really puts a smile on people's faces. "Lifetouch is all about memorializing and cataloguing these formative years in students' lives there is no better time capsule than a school picture," said Stephanie Schmid, Vice President of Marketing and Merchandising at Lifetouch. "We hope that looking at this compilation of throwback outfits, iconic hairstyles and facial expressions teaming with unbridled personality will put a smile on people's faces, especially during this particularly unique time for us all." To further celebrate National Yearbook Week, Lifetouch congratulates the five Grand Prize winners of the America's Yearbook sweepstakes. The five winners will receive free school pictures and supplies for the schools of their choosing. They include: Lisa Darretta , benefiting Meeting Hill House School in New Fairfield, CT , benefiting Meeting Hill House School in Jonah Kopriva , benefiting Sherwood High School in Creighton, MO , benefiting in Alix Forte , benefiting Double Churches Elementary School in Columbus, GA , benefiting Double Churches Elementary School in Sebastian Singlar , benefiting Brecknock Elementary School in Mohnton, PA , benefiting Brecknock Elementary School in Amy Reith , benefiting Normandale Hills Elementary in Bloomington, MN In addition to capturing memories that tell life's story, school photography is also an essential service for schools. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lifetouch is working closely with schools to schedule picture days following established safety protocols, CDC guidelines and with the help of Lifetouch's proprietary dashboard found here . As an industry leader, Lifetouch's dashboard has been an invaluable tool for the company in addressing the needs of individual schools and helping to safely schedule picture days for nearly 25 million students across the country. More information on the company's safety protocols including face coverings, enhanced cleaning and sanitization, social distancing, health check-ins, and comprehensive safety training can be found here . About Lifetouch: For more than 80 years, Lifetouch has been the professional photography company of choice for schools and families. Headquartered in Eden Prairie, MN., the company is organized around four primary business lines operating in local communities across North America. Built on the tradition of "Picture Day", Lifetouch captures smiling faces from preschool through high school graduation, as well as sports, special events, seniors and yearbooks; and also serves families in JCPenney Portraits and Church communities. Lifetouch is also proud to be a part of the Shutterfly family of brands. Media Contact Lauren Beene [email protected] 212.537.8733 SOURCE Lifetouch MANZINI - The elder generation taught a 25-year-old graduate, Maxwell Mamba that kutala kutelula (you get children to take care of you in your old age), but his mother is languishing in poverty. Mamba, who graduated in 2017 from the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) with a Degree in Environmental Management, specialising in Occupational Safety and Health, said he was hurting because his mother was not enjoying the fruits of having him as a child. Investment With her (mother) investment in my education after we (me and my siblings) lost our father when I was only seven years old doing Grade II, she is not getting anything because I am unemployed, he said. Mamba is among the hundreds of unemployed youth in the country who hold certificates, diplomas and degrees, which they obtained from accredited institutions of higher learning in the kingdom. On top of that, some of them were sponsored by government after it approved their courses while others managed to graduate because their parents had to dig deep into their pockets with the hope that they were investing. The 25-year-old graduate said he married this course in 2013 only to realise four years later, just after he knelt before Their Majesties during his graduation day, that his bride was sending him straight to the statistics of unemployed emaSwati particularly young people. He said having spent about three years at home, with his degree, he came to a conclusion that government had been promising job opportunities for its citizens, just to score political points. Besides the alleged political points scoring, the unemployed graduate said the countrys system of education channelled young people straight to seeking employment, instead of being self-employed. He said everyone was programmed to go to school, get good grades and live a great life. What a fallacy in Eswatini. he said. Again, he said one then wondered if education was still the ticket out of poverty. Secondly, is Eswatini working for emaSwati? Finally, have we failed as a nation to create opportunities for our people? he wondered. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) holds her weekly press briefing on Capitol Hill in Washington on Oct. 1, 2020. (Nicholas Kamm/AFP via Getty Images) Pelosi Says She Only Hears Updates on Trumps Health From Media House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said Sunday that she has not been receiving formal updates from the White House on President Donald Trumps health following his COVID-19 diagnosis late last week. Pelosi, who tested negative for the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus on Friday, told CBSs Face the Nation that she has not been kept in the loop regarding the presidents well-being, despite her position as second in the line of succession behind Vice President Mike Pence. Were getting our information the way everyone else isin the media, she said, when asked whether she was happy with the level of communication from the White House on Trumps health. But in terms of the succession, thats an ongoing process. Sadly at this time, it comes to the forefront. The president was diagnosed with COVID-19, the disease caused by the CCP virus, late last week, and is on several medications, including dexamethasone, remdesivir, and Regeneron, according to his team of doctors. Pelosi, who is ahead of Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) in the line of succession, said that she is praying for the president and first lady Melania Trump following their positive diagnoses. We must crush this coronavirus and protect the Affordable Care Act to ensure Americans have access to the health care they need now more than ever. #FamiliesFirst @FaceTheNation pic.twitter.com/MZxYhJC2v4 Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) October 4, 2020 Doctors said the president had a high fever on Friday morning but had not run a fever since Friday. On Sunday, White House physician Dr. Sean P. Conley said Trumps condition has continued to improve, and another medical specialist said he could return to the White House as early as tomorrow. Conley appeared upbeat on the presidents prognosis, saying Trump is up and around. He previously confirmed that the president briefly received supplemental oxygen after his blood oxygen level dropped down to 93 percent on Saturday. It rose to 98 percent on Sunday. We pray for his good health, his speedy recovery, Pelosi said. We wouldnt pray if we didnt believe there was a chance that there could be an answer. And so I pray that in addition to his health, that the presidents heart will be open to the millions of people who have been affected, the hundreds of thousands of families that have suffered a death, and also to recognize that a preponderance of the impact of the virus in communities of color that maybe dont have the kind of access to care that the president or the rest of us have, she added. Separately on Sunday, White House national security adviser Robert OBrien said that the White House is not considering a transfer of power from Trump to Pence, saying that it is not something thats on the table at this point. He assured that the president is in great shape and that he and the government are doing well. The last time presidential powers were handed over was in 2002 and 2007, from George W. Bush to then-Vice President Dick Cheney when Bush was anesthetized for a colonoscopy. The Constitution was amended in 1963 following John F. Kennedys assassination to clarify the lines of succession. Pelosi also told Face the Nation that she is concerned the information Trumps team of doctors is relaying to the public has to be approved by the president. Thats not very scientific. Jack Phillips contributed to this report. NetJets will open new service hub and operations centers to service large-scale hangars NetJets hangar in Denver, CO (APA) NetJets hangar in Denver, CO (APA) NetJets hangar in San Jose, CA (SJC) NetJets hangar in San Jose, CA (SJC) Columbus, OH, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NetJets, the worldwide leader in private aviation, announced today their investment into two large-scale flagship West Coast hangars at Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport in California (SJC) and Centennial Airport (APA) in the Denver-Aurora metropolitan area. In addition to housing the NetJets fleets, these hangars will also offer premiere services to NetJets Owners and to customers of NetJets Inc. subsidiary, Executive Jet Management (EJM), a leader in aircraft management and private jet charter programs. NetJets is proud to share that these hangars include service hubs and operations centers, to continue our growth across the important West Coast market, said Patrick Gallagher, President of NetJets Sales, Marketing & Service. This is an exciting opportunity to further establish San Jose and Denver as leading business aviation gateways and to expand our ability to service our West Coast Owners. We look to these two markets to open the doors on the West Coast as our expansion in additional cities is imminent. At the northwest end of Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport in California (SJC) NetJets will occupy approximately 35,000 square feet of the existing hangar that includes a 60-foot door built for aircraft as large as the Boeing 767s, with capacity to hold up to seven Latitudes, six Longitudes or four Global 6000s at any given time. NetJets highest share of market in terms of flight activity and growth is in the Bay area. The new hangar will provide convenience to NetJets Owners and will also be the largest operations center on the West Coast for whole aircraft management provided by Executive Jet Management. This operations center will be home to aviation professionals dedicated to Owner Services, Flight Operations, Fleet Maintenance, Aircraft Management, and Charter Sales. Story continues Additionally, Centennial Airport (APA) in the Denver-Aurora metropolitan area will provide 15,000 square feet of hangar space to welcome the NetJets fleet. This location will also host nearly 7,000 square feet of office space in the main FBO for the NetJets and EJM teams to assist with operations and guest services directly from the site. These flagship West Coast hangars are slated to open and be fully operational by Fall 2020. Additional announcements in other locations of strategic importance to NetJets and EJM are forthcoming. For more information about the worlds most reliable and trusted aviation company, visit netjets.com. About NetJets NetJets Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway company, is the worldwide leader in private aviation. More than 55 years ago, they launched the worlds first private jet charter and management company. NetJets went on to pioneer shared aircraft ownershipoffering the advantages of owning a private jet without the responsibilities. Today, they continue to innovate from cockpit and cabin to safety and accessibility. As the owner and operator of the worlds largest and most diverse private jet fleet, NetJets hires only the most experienced and accomplished pilots, and safety remains their first and highest priority. NetJets full range of aviation options help individuals and businesses do more and miss less via the NetJets, Executive Jet Management, and Marquis Jet Card service brands in North America and Europe. For more information about the worlds most reliable and trusted aviation company, visit netjets.com. #### Attachments CONTACT: NetJets PR Team NetJets pressnetjets@hlgrp.com Harvard University has sent home three freshmen living in Mather House after they hosted a party with several other guests in September, according to the Harvard Crimson, the colleges student newspaper. Harvards Community Council dismissed the students for violating the Community Compact," which states that students will abide by social distancing and other health regulations during the coronavirus pandemic, the Crimson reports. The students can continue their coursework remotely during the fully virtual semester, the Crimson reports. The college will only charge the students room and board for the part of the semester they lived on campus. As of Monday, there have only been nine Harvard undergraduates whove tested positive for COVID-19 since June 1, according to the colleges testing dashboard. Across all students, faculty and staff, the college reports a total of 55 cases. Related Content: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has labeled his staff 'rogue employees with false allegations' after they accused him of helping a campaign donor whose offices were raided by the FBI. Paxton - who is leading the attorneys general antitrust probe into Google - is said to have given legal favors to Austin based businessman Nate Paul who donated $25,000 to his 2018 re-election bid. In a single-page letter several of the Republican's top deputies, including Paxton's first assistant Jeff Mateer, wrote that they reported him to 'the appropriate law enforcement authority' for potentially breaking the law 'in his official capacity as the current Attorney General of Texas'. Paxton said Sunday: 'The Texas attorney generals office was referred a case from Travis County regarding allegations of crimes relating to the FBI, other government agencies and individuals. My obligation as attorney general is to conduct an investigation upon such referral. 'Because employees from my office impeded the investigation and because I knew Nate Paul, I ultimately decided to hire an outside independent prosecutor to make his own independent determination. Despite the effort by rogue employees and their false allegations, the AGs office will continue to seek justice in Texas.' Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, left, has been accused of helping real estate investor and campaign donor Nate Paul after his offices were last year raided by the FBI. The letter was signed by the deputy attorneys general for policy, administration, civil litigation, criminal investigations and legal counsel, as well as Paxton's first assistant, Jeff Mateer, right, and Mateer's deputy Text messages obtained by The Houston Chronicle show Paxton's first assistant, Jeff Mateer, had texted Paxton accusing him of 'violations concerning his relationship with Paul' Text messages obtained by The Houston Chronicle show Mateer had texted Paxton accusing him of 'violations concerning his relationship with Paul'. He wrote: 'Each of the individuals in this text chain made a good faith report of violations by you to an appropriate law enforcement authority concerning your relationship and activities with Nate Paul.' Paxton replied he was out of office and asked them to email their concerns. Their Thursday letter had stated: 'We have a good faith belief that the attorney general is violating federal and/or state law including prohibitions related to improper influence, abuse of office, bribery and other potential criminal offenses.' It was first reported jointly by the Austin American-Statesman and KVUE-TV and subsequently obtained by The Associated Press. The letter does not offer specifics but it has since emerged that the Houston lawyer Paxton appointed over the Paul investigation last week issued grand jury subpoenas targeting 'adversaries' of the real estate mogul, according to reports. Paul has not commented on the claims. Several top deputies of Texas attorney general have reported to law enforcement that their boss engaged in crimes including bribery and abuse of office, according to this internal letter Paxton - who is leading the attorneys general antitrust probe into Google - is said to have given legal favors to Nate Paul, pictured, who donated $25,000 to his 2018 re election bid For over a year, the Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission have pursued sweeping antitrust investigations of big tech companies, looking at whether Google, Facebook, Amazon and Apple have hurt competition, stifled innovation or otherwise harmed consumers. A bipartisan coalition of 50 U.S. states and territories, led by Paxton, announced a year ago on the steps of the Supreme Court that they were investigating Google's business practices. They cited 'potential monopolistic behavior.' The group is expected to launch an antitrust lawsuit against the internet search engine as soon as this week, Politico reported Friday. Donald Trump waves alongside Attorney General of Texas Ken Paxton in Dallas on June 11 The letter could deepen legal trouble for Paxton, who has spent nearly his entire five years in office under felony indictment for securities fraud, although the case has stalled for years over legal challenges. Paxton pleaded not guilty in that case, and it is not clear whether the new accusations are related. Philip Hilder, the attorney general's defense lawyer, declined to comment Sunday. 'We're going to look into these allegations,' Brian Wice, one of the special prosecutor on the securities case, said of the new claims of wrongdoing by Paxton. He declined to elaborate. In a statement to the American-Statesman Paxton's office said: 'The complaint filed against Attorney General Paxton was done to impede an ongoing investigation into criminal wrongdoing by public officials including employees of this office. Making false claims is a very serious matter and we plan to investigate this to the fullest extent of the law.' 'These allegations raise serious concerns,' Gov. Greg Abbott, also a Republican, said in a Sunday statement. He declined to comment further 'until the results of any investigation are complete.' 'Indicted Texas Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton is the top law enforcement official in the state,' Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa said in a statement. 'Yet, he has proven for years that he cannot follow the law himself.' The letter was signed by the deputy attorneys general for policy, administration, civil litigation, criminal investigations and legal counsel, as well as Paxton's first assistant, Jeff Mateer, and Mateer's deputy. None of them responded to messages seeking comment Saturday or Sunday. Mateer resigned from Paxton's office Friday to rejoin a prominent conservative nonprofit law firm in the Dallas-area, according to the Dallas Morning News. The First Liberty Institute did not immediately respond to an inquiry about him Sunday. State Attorney General Ken Paxton, pictured in June. Several top deputies of Texas' attorney general have accused him of crimes including bribery and abuse of office in an internal letter saying they've reported the actions to law enforcement Paxton, who is in his second term, has raised his national profile as a conservative crusader under President Donald Trump including leading Lawyers for Trump, a group supporting the president's reelection. He also spearheaded a lawsuit against the Affordable Care Act that goes before the U.S. Supreme Court this fall and was previously chairman of the Republican Attorneys General Association. A spokeswoman for the association declined to comment. Michelle Lee, a spokeswoman for the FBI's San Antonio office, said it's agency policy not to comment on whether it has received allegations of crimes or is investigating. A spokesman for the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Texas declined to comment. Bill Miller, a veteran Texas political consultant who's worked for Republicans and Democrats, said he couldn't think of any precedent for a current elected leader's staff accusing them of crimes. 'It's like, wow,' he said. Senator Ron Johnson said Monday that he has no symptoms after testing positive for the coronavirus over the weekend and announced that he plans to vote in person on the Supreme Court nomination even if it means he has to wear a moon suit. I feel perfectly normal, I have not had any symptoms, Johnson said Monday during a radio interview on the Ross Kaminsky Show. Johnsons office announced Saturday that the Wisconsin Republican tested positive for Covid-19 on Saturday and was not experiencing any symptoms after he was exposed to an individual who also tested positive. The senator is currently quarantining for his third time since the U.S. outbreak began. His diagnosis came a day after President Trump announced that he and First Lady Melania Trump tested positive for the coronavirus. Republican senators Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Mike Lee of Utah, both of whom serve on the Judiciary Committee, also announced last week that they had tested positive for the coronavirus. With the confirmation hearings of President Trumps Supreme Court nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett scheduled to begin on October 12, some Senate Democrats including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Dianne Feinstein, the ranking Democrat on the Judiciary Committee, have called for the upcoming hearings to be postponed to allow Barrett and senators who were potentially exposed to the virus to be tested and isolate. Johnson argued that Barretts confirmation can proceed as long as the Senate takes the proper health and safety precautions. Theres no reason we cant confirm Judge Barrett, Johnson said, cautioning that the confirmation hearings could be held electronically, but voting remotely is probably not possible since the rules of the Senate would have to be changed. But If we have to go in and vote, Ive already told leadership Ill go in a moon suit, Johnson said. Where there is a will, theres a way, Johnson said. We can do these things. More from National Review Wildfires in California have burned a record 4 million acres since the start of 2020, charring more land in the past nine months than during the previous three years combined. The results are devastating. The more than 8,200 blazes since January have killed 31 people and destroyed more than 8,400 homes and buildings, the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection said Sunday. The number of acres burned is more than double the previous record, set in 2018. The fires have been stoked by searing-hot weather, tinder-dry brush left after years of drought, powerful winds and other conditions that state officials say have been made worse by climate change. In August, a record-breaking heat wave triggered the states first rotating power outages since the 2001 energy crisis. Smoke from the blazes has drifted as far as Europe. On Monday, firefighters continue to battle an inferno in Northern Californias wine country. The Glass Fire has charred more than 64,000 acres and destroyed more than 1,200 homes and buildings. Four people have now been killed in a separate blaze, the Zogg Fire, burning further north in Shasta County, authorities said Thursday. Its charred more than 56,000 acres. In addition to devastating huge swaths of land, the blazes have fouled the states air. Thick bands of smoke have been drifting over cities for weeks, darkening the sun and forcing people to stay indoors to avoid breathing unhealthy air. Firefighters will get a bit of a break from the weather on Monday as light winds replace the gusts that fanned flames in Northern California last week. Air quality remains poor across much of the state, as smoke and haze from wildfires linger. Californias peak wildfire season traditionally runs from September through November. It has grown longer and less predictable in recent years, with blazes coming as late as December. Five of the six largest fires in Californias history have occurred this year, including the August Complex in Tehama County, which is the biggest ever. The Glass Fire began Sept. 27 as strong, dry winds raked the hills above Napa Valley, near the town of Calistoga, whose residents were ordered to evacuate. But in recent days, calmer and cooler weather helped slow the fires growth. By Sunday night, firefighters had contained 26% of the blaze. The blaze is raging northeast of Santa Rosa, an area devastated by the 2017 Tubbs Fire that was among the most destructive in California history. Properties damaged in the famed vineyard region included the Chateau Boswell estate, the Meadowood resort and the Castello di Amorosa winery. About the photo: Smoke rises behind Sterling Vineyards during the Glass Fire in Napa County, on Sept. 28. Copyright 2022 Bloomberg. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted disease and the primary cause of several cancers. Recent estimates indicate that 70-90 percent of HPV-related cancers may be prevented through vaccination. Despite widespread scientific agreement on benefits, misleading information about the HPV vaccine and concerns about safety are prevalent on social media. A new study led by VCU Massey Cancer Center researcher Jeanine Guidry, Ph.D., a member of the Cancer Prevention and Control research program, compared how HPV vaccination was portrayed on Pinterest before and after the social media platform began moderating vaccine-related content. Findings may help public health officials utilize social media to tackle potentially harmful rhetoric and disseminate trustworthy health information. "Vaccine misinformation is immensely prevalent online and particularly on social media," said Guidry, who is also an assistant professor in the Richard T. Robertson School of Media and Culture in the College of Humanities and Sciences and director of the Media+Health Lab at VCU. "Although the specific influence of social media on medical decision-making remains understudied, research supports an association between online health information searches and medical decisions." Guidry and her collaborators selected Pinterest for their analysis because the platform has a predominantly female audience and research shows that women tend to make the most health care decisions in families. Additionally, Pinterest joined the fight against vaccine misinformation in 2019 by instituting a policy that only allows public health organizations to generate vaccine-related content. Guidry's study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, examined the information environment prior to Pinterest's policy decisions and analyzed whether the implementations improved sources and content. For the study, a quantitative analysis of two samples of 500 HPV vaccine-related Pinterest posts was conducted. The first sample was collected prior to Pinterest's actions to moderate vaccine-related search results; the second was collected following the policy changes. Both were collected via a form of manual systematic random sampling. Researchers also applied the Health Belief Model to their analyses. In the context of HPV vaccination, the theory posits a person's belief in a personal threat of HPV together with a belief in the effectiveness of the vaccine will predict the likelihood the person will actually receive the vaccine. The investigation showed that the majority of search results prior to policy changes leaned toward vaccine skepticism, specifically focused on perceived vaccine barriers. These posts were associated with higher levels of engagement and mainly published by unverified individuals. Very little content was generated from official public health or medical accounts. Post-policy search results showed a significant shift to HPV vaccination benefits and increase in the presence of government or medical accounts. However, the proportion of HPV content of any type in search results was significantly lower. "It was not surprising that earlier posts were largely anti-vaccine," said Guidry. "What surprised us was that many of the posts were not related to the HPV vaccine or HPV at all, but rather MMR or flu vaccine. The quality of the visuals was also problematic in many cases." While Pinterest's efforts to moderate vaccination discussions were largely successful, limiting HPV vaccination search results overall may contribute to confusion or an information vacuum. Guidry acknowledges that more strategic efforts to promote vaccine awareness and uptake on Pinterest are needed. "Pinterest's curation actions are to be commended but the process needs to be improved, and this study can help inform efforts to that end - for the HPV vaccine, but also for other vaccines, including the future COVID-19 vaccine," said Guidry. This is the first study to examine how the HPV vaccine is portrayed on Pinterest and the first to compare vaccine search results before and after platform policy changes. The research builds on Guidry's analysis of vaccine-focused Pinterest posts that she conducted during her doctoral program at VCU. The findings, published in Vaccine in 2015, were a driving force behind Pinterest's policy change to block vaccine misinformation and provide curated public health information. "We are in the middle of planning for studies related to the future COVID-19 vaccine," said Guidry. "We also just started a follow-up study analyzing content related to multiple other vaccines on Pinterest after the curation actions." Guidry's research findings provide formative insights and a foundation for other researchers to build upon, as well as important implications for the development of future social media promotions aimed at reducing cancer risk and promoting survivorship. ### Guidry collaborated on this research with Carrie A. Miller, Ph.D., M.P.H., Hannah M. Ming, M.P.H., Bernard F. Fuemmeler, Ph.D., M.P.H., and Kellie E. Carlyle, Ph.D., M.P.H., of the Department of Health Behavior and Policy at the VCU School of Medicine; Emily K. Vraga, Ph.D., of the University of Minnesota; Linnea I. Laestadius, Ph.D., M.P.P., of the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee; Aurora Occa, Ph.D., of the University of Kentucky; Xiaoli Nan, Ph.D., and Yan Qin of the University of Maryland. This study was supported by award 2T32CA093423 from the National Cancer Institute and, in part, by VCU Massey Cancer Center's Cancer Center Support Grant P30 CA016059. A 45-year-old Chinese man reportedly suffered a heart attack after getting extremely upset while helping his son with his math homework. The man, surnamed Liu, had been helping his Year 3 son with homework since school started last month, but over the past two weeks he had started experiencing a mild pain in his chest whenever he got frustrated with the boy. Things got really bad on Sunday, when Liu became really upset after repeating the same math question to his son three times, who was struggling to find the answer. At one point he started experiencing sharp chest pain and shortness of breath, and eventually passed out. Liu later woke up and thought medical attention at the Shenzhen Third Peoples Hospital, where he learned that he had suffered a heart attack. Photo: Annie Spratt/Unsplash Right after arriving at the hospital, the 45-year-old man collapsed once again and started convulsing and frothing at the mouth. He was quickly stabilized and scheduled for various tests to determine the cause of his symptoms. It was revealed that a part of Mr Lius main coronary artery was clogged, and this blockage was cutting the supply of blood to the heart. Doctors concluded that being a smoker for many years had also contributed to the patients condition, but that the heart attack itself had been by intense stress and anger while helping his son with his sons homework. They added that Liu was wise to come to the hospital when he did, otherwise his heart problem could have been fatal. Mr. Liu underwent an emergency operation and is now in stable condition while slowly recovering at the Shenzen hospital. Interestingly, this is the second such case weve covered in little over a year. Last November we wrote about a Chinese mother who also suffered a heart attack while helping her son with a math problem. The U.S. Supreme Court returned to work on Monday for the first time since liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's death, opening its new term as Senate Republicans pursued quick confirmation of President Donald Trump's conservative nominee to replace her. With eight justices rather than the usual nine, the court was hearing arguments in two cases on Monday, starting a term due to run through next June that includes several major cases including one that will decide the fate of the Obamacare healthcare law. Its last term ended in July. At least at the outset of the term, the cases are being argued as they were at the end of the last term by teleconference because of the coronavirus pandemic. Before the first argument began, Chief Justice John Roberts paid tribute to Ginsburg, calling her a "dear friend and treasured colleague" and sent "our condolences to her children, extended family and countless admirers." Roberts said that a memorial service will at some point be held in the courtroom. Ginsburg died on Sept. 18 at age 87. Trump on Sept. 26 nominated federal appeals court judge Amy Coney Barrett to replace her, and asked the Republican-led Senate to confirm her by the Nov. 3 U.S. election. If confirmed, Barrett would give the court a 6-3 conservative majority. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell reiterated on Saturday that Barrett's confirmation hearings, due to be held next week, will proceed as planned even though two Republicans on the Judiciary Committee had contracted the coronavirus. Trump himself remained hospitalized with COVID-19 on Monday. Trump has said he wants Barrett to be confirmed before Election Day so she could cast a decisive vote in any election-related dispute, potentially in his favor. He has said he expects the Supreme Court to decide the outcome of the election, though it has done so only once - the disputed 2000 contest ultimately awarded to Republican George W. Bush. The justices began hearing arguments in the new term's first case, which centered on a system used by the state of Delaware that requires some of its courts to be ideologically balanced. The justices were hearing the state's appeal defending its law, which requires that no more than half of the judges on certain benches can be affiliated with one political party. The second case was a dispute between Texas and New Mexico over rights to the waters of the Pecos River that runs through both states. On Wednesday, the justices weigh a multibillion-dollar software copyright dispute between Alphabet Inc's Google and Oracle Corp. The case involves Oracle's accusation that Google infringed its software copyrights to build the Android operating system used in smartphones. Two big cases are scheduled for November. On Nov. 10, a week after Election Day, the court is due to hear arguments in a case in which a group of Democratic-led states including California and New York are striving to preserve the 2010 Affordable Care Act, better known as Obamacare. Republican-led states and Trump's administration are waging a court battle to strike down Obamacare. Obamacare has helped roughly 20 million Americans obtain medical insurance either through government programs or through policies from private insurers made available in Obamacare marketplaces. It also bars insurers from refusing to cover people with pre-existing medical conditions. Republican opponents have called the law an unwarranted intervention by government in health insurance markets. The Supreme Court previously upheld it 5-4 in a 2012 ruling in which conservative Chief Justice Roberts cast the crucial vote. It rejected another challenge 6-3 in 2015. Ginsburg was in the majority both times. Barrett has criticized both rulings. The court hears another major case on Nov. 4 concerning the scope of religious-rights exemptions to certain federal laws. The dispute arose from Philadelphia's decision to bar a local Roman Catholic entity from participating in the Democratic-governed city's foster-care program because the organization prohibits same-sex couples from serving as foster parents. Search Keywords: Short link: While the coronavirus outbreak brought with it some unprecedented difficulties, the federal government almost immediately stepped in with multiple financial support programs. This included more than $60 billion in emergency income support, Bloomberg reported. The measures paid off, with the national labour market seeing its fourth consecutive month of gains in August and the unemployment rate dropping to 10.2%. Approximately 245,800 jobs have been added during that month, and the government estimated that the economy has now recovered around 1.9 million of the 3 million jobs lost due to the pandemic. Among the most impactful forms of aid were widespread payment deferrals from lenders: Around $1 billion in mortgage payments have been deferred every month during the pandemic, while the average monthly mortgage payment was at $1,333 this year, according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Incomes have been reasonably well-sustained, consumption has slowed, and so savings overall in the economy have gone up. That's helpful in reducing vulnerabilities, said Tiff Macklem, Bank of Canada Governor. Having said that, weve been very clear at the Bank of Canada, weve underlined the vulnerabilities caused by household indebtedness and too much reliance on the housing sector. Those have not entirely gone away, but when you look at our policy response, the best predictor of whether somebody is going to repay their mortgage is whether they have a job. SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images(WASHINGTON, D.C.) -- President Donald Trump continues to battle COVID-19 at Walter Reed Medical Center and, on Sunday, surprised supporters by waving to them while driving by in a motorcade. The president tweeted a video shortly before his drive-by appearance, calling it "a little surprise visit." President Trump also stated on Sunday that his experience with COVID-19 has opened his eyes, saying his battle was like "really going to school" and that he "gets it" and "understands it." Administration member Judd Deere stated on Sunday, "President Trump took a short, last-minute motorcade ride to wave to his supporters outside and has now returned to the Presidential Suite inside Walter Reed." Added Deere, "Appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the President and all those supporting it, including PPE. The movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do." President Trump returned to Walter Reed right after, where his condition remains unknown. Reports say he may be released as early as Monday. However, some health officials are calling President Trump's drive-by a stunt while critics expressed concern that the president -- who was wearing a mask inside the car -- could have possibly passed his infection onto the driver and any other Secret Service members in the vehicle. Doctor James Phillips, Chief of Disaster Medicine at George Washington who attends at Walter Reed, lambasted the president on Twitter, saying President Trump outright defied guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary Presidential drive-by just now has to be quarantined for 14 days. They might get sick. They may die," tweeted Phillips on Sunday. "This is insanity." Phillips added, "That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of COVID19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures" and called the drive-by irresponsible. A Secret Service spokesperson, when asked to comment on the health and safety of their agents, said to ABC News that they "do not comment on presidential protection." The CDC recommends that transporting a patient "outside of their room should be limited to medically essential purposes. If being transported outside of the room, such as to radiology, healthcare personnel (HCP) in the receiving area should be notified in advance of transporting the patient." The second victim, who didnt know Raymond, had a brief exchange with him before Raymond pulled a handgun and wounded the victim in the upper left abdomen, authorities said. Both Raymond and the victim fled the scene on a southbound train and exited at the 69th Street stop, prosecutors said. Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation today announced that it has acquired Oylo, a privately-held industrial cybersecurity services provider based in Barcelona, Spain. Oylo is dedicated to providing a broad range of industrial control system (ICS) cybersecurity services and solutions including assessments, turnkey implementations, managed services and incident response. As connected smart devices are introduced into the plant floor, having a comprehensive cyber security strategy that spans across industrial operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) is more critical now than ever before. We are dedicated to the success of our customers in their Connected Enterprise journey, and the deep domain expertise that Oylo brings to Rockwell Automation will further accelerate our ability to provide this expertise globally, said Frank Kulaszewicz, senior vice president, Lifecycle Services at Rockwell Automation. The acquisition of Oylo demonstrates Rockwell Automations commitment to providing best-in-class cybersecurity services and solutions. Oylos OT cybersecurity expertise complements the IT cybersecurity expertise gained through the recent acquisition of Avnet Data Security. The addition of Oylo further accelerates our global delivery capability in this rapidly developing market and expands the offering of cybersecurity services available to the industrial market. We look forward to continuing to serve our loyal customers and partners while expanding our services to organizations around the globe, said Eduardo Di Monte, founder and CEO of Oylo. Oylo will be reported as part of the Lifecycle Services operating segment. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. About Rockwell Automation Rockwell Automation Inc. (NYSE: ROK) is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. We connect the imaginations of people with the potential of technology to expand what is humanly possible, making the world more productive and more sustainable. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rockwell Automation employs approximately 23,000 problem solvers dedicated to our customers in more than 100 countries. To learn more about how we are bringing The Connected Enterprise to life across industrial enterprises, visit www.rockwellautomation.com. About Oylo Oylo is an OT cybersecurity service company completely focused on protecting critical processes and automated Industrial Control Systems (ICS). Oylo was founded in 2017 and is based in Barcelona, Spain. For more information, visit www.trustoylo.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201002005136/en/ Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5 2020 After being hit hard by the economic crisis in the first three months of the COVID-19 pandemic, batik crafters in many parts of Indonesia have begun to find their feet making and selling batik cloth masks. Haryati Suroso, owner of Batikque Batik in Sleman, Yogyakarta, told Kompas daily newspaper on Friday that her business had been shaken when the pandemic forced most tourism destinations and hotels in the province to temporarily shut down. During the early stages of the pandemic, she said, her business relied on the Upakarti Sleman Gallery to sell its products. to Read Full Story SUBSCRIBE NOW Starting from IDR 55,000/month Unlimited access to our web and app content e-Post daily digital newspaper No advertisements, no interruptions Privileged access to our events and programs Subscription to our newsletters We accept Register to read 3 premium articles for free Already subscribed? login A woman accused of the 'random and unprovoked' murder of a seven-year-old girl who was stabbed to death in front her family on Mother's Day has appeared in court. Eltiona Skana, 30, has been charged with the murder of Emily Jones, who was stabbed in front of her parents in Bolton, Greater Manchester as she played on her scooter during a day out at the park. An inquest heard that Emily was stabbed in the neck by a woman who was sat on a wooden bench as the girl rode past her. Skana, an Albanian national, has also been charged with possession of a bladed weapon in connection with Emily's death on March 22 this year. Little Emily Jones, pictured, was knifed to death in front of her horrified father as the family enjoyed a day out in a park in Bolton Flowers were left at the scene following the horrific attack in Queen's Park, Bolton on Mother's Day this year She appeared via video link at Manchester Crown Court today for a plea and trial preparation hearing. Her barrister Simon Czoka QC requested that the defendant not be asked to enter a plea at the hearing. Skana, with her hair in a bun and wearing a white sweater and gilet, did not speak during the brief hearing. Skana was arrested on suspicion of Emily's murder and detained under the Mental Health Act after the shocking attack. Emergency services rushed to the scene at Queen's Park in Bolton at around 2.35pm on Sunday, March 22. Emily was rushed to nearby Salford Royal Hospital, but was tragically pronounced dead at 3.56pm despite the best efforts of medics who fought to save her life. Police pictured in a cordoned-off area at Queen's Park in Bolton, Greater Manchester, on March 23, where the seven-year-old died At the time of her death, her heartbroken parents said little Emily was the 'light' of their lives. They said: 'Emily was seven-years-old, our only child and the light of our lives. 'She was always full of joy, love and laughter. 'Emily had such a cheeky smile and was beautiful inside and out. She had a heart as big as her smile.' Emily's father Mark Jones was present in court for the hearing. A further hearing was scheduled for November 6. Pranab Mondal By Express News Service KOLKATA: BJPs plan to highlight pollbound West Bengals deteriorating law and order issue in its campaign ahead of 2021 Assembly elections has received a jolt in the wake of the Hathras incident, said party sources. The ruling Trinamool Congress already sharpened attack on the BJP over the law and order situation and womens safety in the saffron party-ruled Uttar Pradesh. The partys new initiative titled Uma to portray the crime against women scenario in Bengal has also been hit after the alleged gangrape and murder of a Dalit woman in UP and the way local administration allegedly set the body ablaze without her familys consent. In the meeting with the national leadership on October 1 in Delhi, party president JP Nadda directed us to highlight the issues related to states affairs, instead of talking much about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens. We have been asked to portray issues like corruption among the ruling party functionaries, Bengals deteriorating law and order situation and barring central of schemes for the poor, said a senior BJP leader. However, the UP incident has become the talk of the nation. Before attacking Mamata Banerjees government on law and order issue, we will have to wait till the peoples sentiment calms down, he added. "We dont know how much damage the Hathras incident will cause to our Dalit vote bank. It will be clear only after the polls, said another BJP leader. Playing the Dalit card to woo the backward class electorates in the state who are the deciding factor in 84 out of 294 assembly seats in Bengal, TMC chief Mamata Banerjee took out a march in Kolkata on Saturday protesting the Hathras incident. She also announced her party would continue staging protests for the next week across the state. TMC campaign to target BJP over rapes The Trinamool Congress has launched a massive digital campaign to highlight atrocities against under the rule of Adityanath-led UP government as well as the Centre. Using #BJPHataoBetiBachao, the TMC will be targeting the BJP governments over their apathy and disregard in terms of rising crimes against women including four cases of rape recorded in UP in 24 hours. Germany: leading the recovery ICR Research By Published 05 October 2020 The German cement sector has fared better than most during the pandemic. Cement demand is forecast to remain stable this year, with a more cautious outlook for 2021. Meanwhile, producers are embracing the latest technology for a leaner, greener manufacturing base. Germanys economic growth slowed to 0.6 per cent in 2019 from 1.5 per cent the previous year, according to Destatis, the countrys federal statistics office, marking a sharp slump in growth and the weakest expansion since 2013. Following a slight economic contraction in the 4Q19, the coronavirus pandemic officially pushed Germany into recession in the 1Q20, as GDP declined by 1.8 per cent on the same quarter of the preceding year. A steeper contraction of 11.3 per cent YoY was registered in the 2Q20, representing a much sharper fall in activity than during the financial crisis in 2008-09. The ongoing pandemic and related restrictions have resulted in a massive drop in domestic and foreign demand compared to the 1Q20. To continue reading this story and get access to all News, Articles and Video sections of the CemNet.com website, please Register for a subscription to International Cement Review or Login TEARS were shed in Meelick-Parteen church but it wasnt a funeral. It was both a celebration of Fr Tom Carrolls time in the parish and a farewell to the priest from Effin. After 14 years in Meelick-Parteen, Fr Tom, as he is known to one and all, has been appointed co-parish priest of Pastoral Unit 10 - Ballingarry/Granagh, Rathkeale, Knockaderry/Cloncagh. It follows the retirement of Fr Dan Lane, who will now assist in Pastoral Unit 14 - Abbeyfeale, Athea, Templeglantine, Tournafulla, Mountcollins. Fr Eamon Purcell will now be co-parish priest of Pastoral Unit 4 - Parteen/Meelick, St Munchins/St Lelias and Corpus Christi. Read also: Bishop of Limerick thanks retiring priests as clerical changes are announced Fr Tom started in his new role in west Limerick ten days ago. But he was left in no doubt about the esteem he was held in by the parishioners of Meelick-Parteen at the special Mass. Reflecting on his time there, Fr Tom joked, They didnt throw me out anyway. I am sad to be leaving. I made a lot of friends. I was very happy here. I had a good time here and I enjoyed it. I knew a lot of people in Meelick from my time in Caherdavin. I used to go out around Meelick walking so I was very familiar with the territory, continued the proud Effin man. Fr Toms great friend - Canon Donal McNamara - said the Mass and gave a beautiful homily. He presented Fr Tom with a special commissioned painting. It is a recreation of a fabulous photograph taken by Brian Arthur in 2013. The then Press 22 photographer captured Fr Tom on his knees beseeching the Lord to help Limerick defeat Clare in the All-Ireland semi-final. His prayers werent answered then but they were in 2018. Veronica Garvey, of Meelick-Parteen Pastoral Council, said the craic was mighty between the priest and his flock whenever Limerick and Clare played. On a serious note, Ms Garvey said she, like everybody in the parish, was very sad to see Fr Tom go. People were very sad. A lot of older and younger people couldnt believe it. He was certainly very good to people who had difficulties, those who had bereavements and was very good at visiting the sick in the hospital and the hospice, said Ms Garvey, who added that Fr Tom is as popular with parishioners as he is with his fellow priests. The size of a cheque from a very special collection from locals reflected how highly thought of Fr Tom was. Meelick-Parteens loss is west Limericks gain. SWARTZ CREEK, MI -- Swartz Creek schools will not require K-5th-graders to wear masks in class. Last week, the Michigan Supreme Court decided Gov. Gretchen Whitmer does not have authority to extend emergency orders issued under two emergency acts. One order that was supposed to be implemented as of Monday, Oct. 5, was a mask requirement for all K-4th-grade students. While this decision provides clarity on the governors scope of authority, it has caused some confusion with the strategies that have been implemented to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in the Swartz Creek school district, Superintendent Ben Mainka wrote in a Monday, Oct. 5 letter. Related: Gov. has no authority to continue state of emergency, Michigan Supreme Court rules The district will continue using its Extended Continuity of Learning (ECOL) Plan, which does not include the requirement that K-5 children wear masks, Manka wrote. While it is encouraged and recommended, it was not a requirement in our plan for a variety of reasons, based on research on young learners," Mainka said. "With that being said, we will look at the data, transmission rates, and many other factors to inform reasonable and thoughtful decisions to ensure our students continue to have a safe and appropriate learning environment. We will stay in close communication with you if the district determines to add requirements to our current ECOL Plan. The district has seen success in providing instruction while also engaging in safety and prevention of the transmission of COVID-19, he said. The district and its board review the districts Extended Continuity of Learning (ECOL) Plan monthly looking at the most recent data, the advisories from the local health department and guidance information from the legislative bodies. The plan was approved by the Swartz Creek Community Schools Board of Education, and has been following all fall since starting this school year. We have had a fantastic start to the school year in a very challenging time," Mainka wrote. "Our transmission rates are almost non-existent and we want to keep giving us the best chance to maintain all of our learning modalities, including face-to-face instruction. Swartz Creek Community Schools officials could not be immediately reached for further comment. In Genesee County, Davison Community Schools has also said it will not require young elementary students to wear masks in class. Two days after the Michigan Supreme Court decision, state Attorney General Dana Nessel announced on Sunday, Oct. 4, that her office would no longer enforce the governors emergency orders with criminal prosecution. But the statement clarified that decision is not binding for state departments with independent enforcement authority. Nessel went on to express a fervent hope that people would continue to abide by measures put in place by the governor, including the use of face masks, social distancing guidelines and staying home when sick. Read more: No mask requirement in Davison K-4 classrooms, district says, after court ruling Michigan AG will no longer enforce governors executive orders after court ruling Whitmer: Michigan Supreme Court undermined public health efforts amid COVID-19 pandemic "We would purchase the consistency that's needed across the square. So the camera, the install and the license agreement for, could be up to five years, would be fully funded by the city, giving to a business owner who wants to have a camera installed for their outdoor viewing. That way, the city is not in control of that data." Uran said the end goal for the project is "to have a tool in place for our law enforcement in case there is a situation where there's an emergency," such as a missing child or an accident. Assistant Crown Point Police Chief Jim Janda said the cameras would be a helpful tool for the department to assist in investigations. "Anytime that we have anything from accidents, serious accidents, any type of crime it's one of the first things the detective bureau or the officers look for is getting video," Janda said. "It's not something that somebody would be actively looking at or watching it would be something to assist us in any type of further investigation in identifying people." Janda said oftentimes the department relies on video from local businesses, which isn't always pointed in the right direction or the video can't be downloaded. New Covid measures have come into force in Derry City and Strabane. Credit: Lorcan Doherty/PressEye First Minister Arlene Foster has said there will be "no return to total lockdown" in Northern Ireland, despite spiraling Covid-19 cases. Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster's Evening Extra programme the DUP leader said there would be no return to the situation seen in March and April. Asked if a lockdown was inevitable Mrs Foster replied: "I hope not". "We will not be going back to a situation where our schools are closed again and we're in a situation of total lockdown, so when people throw about the phrase lockdown I think it means different things to different people," Mrs Foster said. She said another lockdown in Northern Ireland is avoidable if people follow the Covid-19 regulations. "I think the important thing to do is to work with us and comply with the guidance and regulations that are already out there, that will mean there will be less need to move into tighter restrictions," the DUP leader said. "I think that's very important because we know the impact that these restrictions have on people's way of life, on the economic wellbeing of society, on people's mental health, on their family interaction." It comes after a further 616 people in Northern Ireland have tested positive for Covid-19 in the last 24 hours, the Department of Health announced. This brings the total number of confirmed cases in the region since the start of the pandemic to 14,690. Some 3,630 cases have been reported in the last seven days alone. In the Derry City and Strabane council area, where new restrictions come into force today, there have been 804 cases in the last seven days, second only to Belfast with 832 cases over the same period. No further deaths have been reported. The death toll remains at 584. There are currently 64 Covid patients in hospitals across Northern Ireland, with 12 patients in intensive care. A total of 29 care homes are dealing with outbreaks of the virus. Read More The GAA has also suspended all club games after breaches of social distancing at games. It comes after large crowds gathered at a GAA match in Bellaghy on Sunday in breach of Covid regulations. Hundreds of fans where pictured at the game between Slaughtneil and Magherafelt, not following social distancing rules. Police have confirmed they will investigate potential breaches of the Covid-19 restrictions at the game. Read More Here's how Monday unfolded: Medics in Northern Ireland may be faced with the grim reality of rationing intensive care treatment in the coming weeks, it has been warned. Dr Tom Black, chair of the British Medical Association Northern Ireland council, said clinicians are bracing themselves for an influx of seriously ill patients after 3,289 people tested positive with Covid-19 over the last seven days. However, he said he believes the situation can be brought under control by Christmas - but only if the public adheres to the growing list of restrictions aimed at slowing the spread of the virus. He also warned that a third wave of the virus is likely to occur in Northern Ireland in March and April next year. "We're essentially back where we were in March of this year and it's going to take an awful lot of hard work and effort to get things under control again," he said. Dr Black was speaking after a massive spike in positive cases in recent days - with almost 1,000 new cases on Friday, 726 on Saturday and a further 462 announced on Sunday. "GPs could have predicted this three weeks ago because of the activity they were seeing in surgery and also in the Covid centres," he continued. "There's a lag between people presenting with symptoms and needing hospital treatment, we're now starting to see that happen and a proportion of those people will require an intensive care bed. "At the moment, the majority of people who are testing positive are in the younger age group, so hopefully there won't be the same pressure on intensive care beds. "There's always the risk doctors will have to ration intensive care treatment but hopefully we will be able to cope. "I think the numbers of people who test positive are going to be higher this time around, but I hope that by protecting the elderly there won't be the same number of people needing to go to hospital. "I think October and November are going to be very difficult but if everyone works hard, hopefully we can get things back in six to eight weeks. "However, I do worry that a third wave will happen next year because we will get through this and people will start to relax, it's human nature, but we have to just work very hard not to let that happen." While the number of people testing positive with Covid-19 dropped over the weekend compared to Friday's spike, figures at the weekend tend to be lower as fewer tests are carried out. As a result, health officials will be waiting anxiously for the number of positive cases confirmed in the coming days to gauge the effects of the restrictions already in place. However, it is understood that local lockdowns and a return to shielding have not been ruled out as potential measures. A so-called circuit breaker may also be implemented, with schools preparing for an extended break over the Halloween holidays although the step may have to be put in place sooner if cases continue to rise. On Sunday night, Health Minister Robin Swann said decisive action will continue to be taken to combat the spread of Covid-19 here. "The data on additional positive cases in Northern Ireland continues to be deeply disturbing," he said. "Sadly, it was announced on Sunday that another person has passed away. I really hope that by now everyone is fully aware of the scale of the crisis we are facing. Our hospitals are already under growing pressure and this will inevitably intensify in the coming weeks given the extent of the new cases. "Concrete action has been taken by Executive on a number of fronts and I will not hesitate to recommend further restrictions. Saving lives and protecting our health service must come first. "Household contacts have been severely curtailed across Northern Ireland and more intensive restrictions have been introduced for Derry and Strabane local government district, in light of the data for that council area. "Additional planned interventions are under active consideration. I continue to be very mindful of the adverse consequences of this pandemic on society and the economy. I do not want a return to a long-term or indefinite lockdown." Health officials are believed to be growing increasingly concerned about the number of cases being diagnosed in the Newry, Mourne and Down area, which has the second highest cases per 100,000 of the population in Northern Ireland. According to official figures released on Sunday afternoon, it has now crept ahead of Belfast with 521 people diagnosed with Covid-19 in the last seven days. New Delhi: The security of the family of the Hathras woman, who died a fortnight after being allegedly gang-raped, has been tightened and her brother has been provided with two gunners. "Security has been tightened around the victim's house in Hathras and her family members have also been provided security," Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Awanish Kumar Awasthi told PTI. According to Hathras police, 12-15 PAC personnel have been deployed for "24-hour security" of the family, adding that two security men have been deployed for the brother. Elaborate security has been ensured to prevent any tension in the area. Three SHOs, a deputy SP-rank officer along constables have been deployed in the village, besides women cops for around-the-clock security, said the police, adding that the magistrates are also there to keep an eye on the situation. Live TV Meanwhile, the Hathras Police today lodged an FIR against "unknown" persons for alleged attempt to trigger caste-based conflict and invoked serious charges, including sedition. The first information report (FIR) was lodged at the Chandpa police station on Sunday afternoon and names "unknown" as accused, police officials told PTI. The FIR mentions 19 charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The IPC sections include 124A (sedition), 505 (intending to cause public alarm and inducing someone to commit offence against the state or public tranquility), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups). Section 67 (transmitting obscene material in electronic form) of the IT Act have also been invoked, according to the FIR. The Hathras police reportedly registered around a dozen complaints under the IT Act related to the Dalit girl's case and they are being probed by the Cyber Cell. The 19-year-old woman was allegedly raped in Hathras on September 14, and she died on September 29 at Delhi's Safdarjung Hospital during treatment. The victim was cremated in the dead of the night near her home on September 30. Her family alleged they were forced by the local police to hurriedly conduct her last rites. Local police officers, however, said the cremation was carried out "as per the wishes of the family". Notably, the state government has already recommended a CBI probe in the matter. The parents of three Britons stuck in coronavirus quarantine in Italy have told of their fears for the boys' mental health after two months in isolation. Quinn Paczesny, 20, Will Castle, 22, and Rhys James, 23, had been teaching English in northern Italy and planned on going travelling before they tested positive for coronavirus in Florence on August 17. The trio were taken to a converted hotel for coronavirus patients, placed in separate rooms, and told they could not leave until they twice tested negative for the virus. They have been there ever since, as the results keep coming back positive. Quinn Paczesny, 20 (left), Will Castle, 22 (centre), and Rhys James, 23 (right), have been in coronavirus quarantine in Italy since August 17 - and say they are now 'really struggling' Mark Paczesny (right), Quinn's father, said he is now concerned for the boys' mental health, saying that 'the cracks are starting to show' Speaking to Good Morning Britain, father Mark Paczesny said: 'It's very frustrating. Week after week the results are always the same. 'We are finding it hard to deal with and I'm beginning to worry about the mental health issues for the lads. 'I think you can see the cracks appearing now and that they're struggling. They need to stay strong. It's all about them now. I don't know what to say about it any more.' Son Quinn added: 'As my dad said the cracks are definitely starting to show with our mental health. We're all struggling a lot. 'We all try to put on this brave face, especially to the media, but it's getting to the point where it's difficult to put on that facade now.' Medics have told Rhys, from Pembrokeshire, Quinn, from Sheffield and Will, from Brighton, that they are unlikely to be infectious and the tests are probably detecting dead coronavirus cells that are left in their systems. Will's mum Nicky Castle (left) said the boys are still stuck in limbo more than eight weeks after their diagnosis, with no end to their ordeal in sight The boys are being kept inside a hotel in Florence that has been converted for use as a coronaivurs ward, and are in separate rooms meaning they have no social contact The trio (pictured during an earlier test when they were allowed to be in the same room) were planning to travel Europe together, but are now stuck in isolation The WHO has advised against requiring two negative coronavirus tests for a person to leave quarantine, warning that it could lead to 'long periods of isolationaffecting individual well-being'. The UN health body instead says that patients should be released after 10 days of self-isolation, and once they have stopped showing symptoms. All three boys say they have not had any virus symptoms since two days after their diagnosis, but none-the-less, Italian authorities have refused to budge. Sharon Jones, Rhys's mother, admitted the situation is 'difficult' and that she wants her son to come home Will's mum Nicky Castle added: 'I think you have to put on your professional face but inside your heart is weeping. 'For the boys, it must be 20 times worse because they're stuck and they don't know when they're going to get out. 'That's the worst thing - there don't seem to be any solutions and we're stuck in limbo. They're stuck where they are in inadequate conditions.' The trio have previously complained of conditions at the hotel, where they are kept in their rooms 24 hours a day. They have their meals brought to them by staff in hazmat suits, but otherwise have no contact with people and are not allowed out into the hallway. Will previously said that one of the boys suffers from coeliac disease, and had been forced to eat a meal containing gluten. The boys say daily phone calls with each-other have kept them going, and that they have taken up yoga to pass the time. Will's dad Jim added that all three sets of parents have been in touch with their locals MPs, and are trying to pressure Italian officials into changing the law to allow their sons to return home. Doctors have privately admitted to the boys (pictured during their diagnosis) that the tests are likely showing dead cells and they are not contagious, but officials have refused to budge But, for the time being, they will remain stuck until all traces of the virus have left their system, with no indication of when that will be. Will said: 'We're still totally reliant on the tests. We did have some positive news yesterday when we had our health check and it was a more thorough check where we had things like our blood pressure taken and we were told this was being sent to an infectious disease specialist. 'The embassy has requested this for a second opinion. So hopefully that means something extra is going on.' Rhys added: 'We really do respect the Italian rules and authorities but we've been told by top health care professionals from the UK, by GPs around the world, by the doctors that visit our room here that we're no longer contagious and that it is probably dead cells. 'Even the doctors here say they don't agree with it but the rules say we need two negative tests to leave so we just have to follow that for now.' "This is not a decision we made lightly, and we did everything in our power to support a safe and sustainable reopening in the U.S. from putting in place robust health and safety measures at our theatres to joining our industry in making a collective commitment to the CinemaSafe protocols to reaching out to state and local officials to educate them on these initiatives. We are especially grateful for and proud of the hard work our employees put in to adapt our theatres to the new protocols and cannot underscore enough how difficult this decision was," said Mooky Greidinger, CEO of Cineworld. As major U.S. markets, mainly New York, remained closed and without guidance on reopening timing, studios have been reluctant to release its pipeline of new films. In turn, without these new releases, Cineworld cannot provide customers in both the U.S. and U.K. the company's primary markets with the breadth of strong commercial films necessary for them to consider coming back to theaters against the backdrop of COVID-19. These closures will impact approximately 40,000 employees across the U.S. Greidinger added, "Despite our work, positive feedback from our customers and the fact that there has been no evidence to date linking any COVID cases with cinemas, we have not been given a route to reopen in New York, although other indoor activities like indoor dining, bowling and casinos were already allowed. The prolonged closures have had a detrimental impact on the release slate for the rest of the year, and, in turn, our ability to supply our customers with the lineup of blockbusters they've come to expect from us. As such, it is simply impossible to continue operations in our primary markets." Regal will continue to monitor the situation closely and will communicate any future plans to resume operations at the appropriate time, when key markets have more concrete guidance on their reopening status and, in turn, studios are able to bring their pipeline of major releases back to the big screen. About Regal: Regal, a subsidiary of the Cineworld Group, operates one of the largest and most geographically diverse theatre circuits in the United States, consisting of 7,076 screens in 536 theatres in 42 states along with the District of Columbia and Guam as of September 30, 2020. We believe that the size, reach and quality of the company's theatre circuit provides its patrons with a convenient and enjoyable moviegoing experience. We are committed to being "The Best Place to Watch a Movie!" Additional information is available on Regal's website: REGmovies.com. Media Contact: Richard M. Grover Regal, Vice President of Communications (865) 925-9539 SOURCE Regal He said faculty were initially led to believe that no tenured professors would lose their jobs as a result of the review, pointing to minutes from an October 2019 stating Nugent has made it clear to the faculty and to the Board that we will not be firing any tenured faculty members, according to a copy provided to the Tribune. By Express News Service LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh Police on Monday claimed to have busted an international conspiracy to foment caste conflagration in the state to defame the Yogi Adityanath government over the Hathras gang-rape and murder case. Police have registered 19 FIRs across the state in connection with spreading rumours and trying to vitiate the atmosphere. At least six persons, including two in Lucknow, have been arrested in connection with the alleged conspiracy. The police sources claimed that intelligence agencies have indicated alleged involvement of the organisations such as Amnesty International, PFI, and SDPI along with workers and leaders of a number of mainstream political parties in the conspiracy to tarnish the state governments image in the garb of seeking justice for Hathras victim. Moreover, the evidence of international funding has also come to the fore in this regard. Interacting with media persons, UP Additional Director General of Police (Law & order) Prashant Kumar claimed on Monday that conspiracy was hatched to push the state into caste conflagration and turmoil which was unearthed by the cops. ALSO READ | Hathras gang rape: Left-affiliated bodies, citizens burn UP CM's effigy, demand his resignation "Some specific groups used social media platforms to spread hatred and incite people for creating conflict on caste lines by organising unlawful gatherings in times of Covid-19 pandemic," said the officer. He added that the police department was in possession of proof and the audio and video clips suggesting that some of these groups even offered Rs 50 lakh to the victim's family to speak against the state government. The officer confirmed that police had lodged 19 FIRs regarding the matter and it will be too early to reveal names or more details without proper investigations. A website -- justiceforhathrasvictim.carrd.co -- which had information on how to protest safely by avoiding the police, has been linked to the conspiracy. The site has now been taken down and is currently unavailable. It also listed dos and donts on how to stay safe during riots and in situations when police fire tear gas. The ADG further said that police teams were checking the veracity of those messages and the website. Action will be taken against if anything comes up in our investigation," he added. Police claimed that six FIRs in connection with Hathras cases were lodged in Bijnor, Bulandshahr, Lucknow, Prayagaraj, Mathura, Shamli, and Saharanpur for unlawful protest, breaching Section 144 of CrPC and inciting hatred on social media. ALSO READ | Hathras case: No sexual intercourse with victim, says hospital in final opinion In one of the FIRs lodged at Chandpa Police station of Hathras, unidentified groups were booked under IPC sections pertaining to sedition, inciting caste violence, promoting enmity between different groups on ground of religion, imputations, and assertions prejudicial to national integration, forgery, forgery for purpose of cheating, forgery for purpose of harming reputation, along with other sections of IPC and IT Act were also invoked against 400-500 unidentified people. Even Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad, Samajwadi Party, and RLD (Rashtriya Lok Dal) workers, who created a ruckus at Boolgarhi village on Sunday, were mentioned in different FIRs lodged in Hathras. In Lucknow, six FIRs were lodged against people who posted fake messages or morphed images of CM Yogi Adityanath on social media platforms in connection with the Hathras incident to incite caste violence. At a town hall in September with undecided voters, President Trump defended his record on racial income inequality by asking the audience to look back to 2019. Before the plague, we were doing very well, he said. Were we? Guess Trumps record on different topics by dragging the circles on the charts below. 1. How did the share of Americans who are uninsured change under Mr. Trump? Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2. How did the amount of student loan debt change under Mr. Trump? Note: As of the second quarter of each year. Source: Federal Reserve 3. How did the number of drug overdose deaths change under Mr. Trump? Note: Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 4. How did the unemployment rate change under Mr. Trump? Note: Values are for the second quarter of each year, seasonally adjusted. Source: Federal Reserve 5. How did the national debt as a share of the gross domestic product change under Mr. Trump? Note: The value for 2020 is a projection. Source: Congressional Budget Office 6. How did the trade deficit with China change under Mr. Trump? Note: Deficit includes goods and services. Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis 7. How did net greenhouse gas emissions change under Mr. Trump? Note: In million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. The value for 2020 is a projection. Source: Rhodium Group Some of the positive trends that began under Mr. Obama continued under the Trump administration. But in other areas, progress slowed or even reversed. Racial income inequality, which Mr. Trump was asked about during the town hall, has gotten worse. The gap between the median income of Black and white households grew by about $3,000 between 2016 and 2019. Granted, the president is not solely responsible for the backsliding and stagnation of the past four years. But he has done little to break the deadlock that has prevented Congress, Americans other major lever of change, from passing laws that would move the country forward. Bharatiya Janata Party legislator from Uttar Pradesh Surendra Singh hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday, alleging that he is a man of "dual character" and "foreign mentality" and he should learn nationalism and the country's culture from "nationalists". Singh was reacting to Gandhi's tweet on his controversial statement on Saturday that "rapes can only be stopped if parents teach sanskar (values) to their daughters". Gandhi reacted to Singh's remark, saying on Sunday, "This is the filthy RSS male chauvinist mentality at work. Men do the raping but women need to be taught good values." He had also tagged a newspaper report on Singh's statement in his tweet. On Monday, the BJP legislator from Bairia constituency, in Ballia district, responded to Gandhi and said the former Congress president "is totally ignorant" about the Indian culture. "Rahul is a person of dual character and foreign mentality. He is totally ignorant about Indian culture," Singh told reporters at his residence. "He will understand the definition of nationalism if he takes tuition from nationalists. He could not understand the crux of the country's culture." "The dual characters of Rahul and Priyanka (Gandhi Vadra) became obvious during their journey to meet the victim's family in Hathras. While they were laughing during their journey, they shed tears at their homes," Singh claimed. The Congress leaders met the family on Saturday evening, after an earlier attempt by them was scuttled by Uttar Pradesh authorities, who briefly detained them and other Congress workers in Greater Noida outside Delhi. They have declared that they will fight for justice to the Dalit woman who died a fortnight after being allegedly gang raped on September 14. Speaking on the incidents of rape, the BJP legislator said, "Immoral works cannot be stopped till the head of the family - the father or the mother - don't monitor the activities of the daughter or the son." For a "cultured society", government and family support are necessary, Singh said, adding that he stands by his statement given earlier. Singh in his earlier statement had said, "It's the duty of all mothers and fathers to imbibe good values in their daughters and bring them up in a cultured environment. I am a teacher and MLA. Such incidents (like rape) can be stopped only with 'sanskar' not with governance or or might." AYLESFORD, NS, Oct. 5, 2020 /CNW/ - The governments of Canada and Nova Scotia recognize the different ways that the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted smaller and rural communities across the province. Both governments are making strategic investments in infrastructure to meet the specific needs of rural Nova Scotian municipalities and help them strengthen their local economies. That is why the governments have been taking decisive action together to support families, businesses and communities, and continue to look ahead to see what more can be done. Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities and Member of Parliament for Halifax, on behalf of the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development, the Honourable Leo Glavine, Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage, and Anne McGuire, the Board Chair of Brigadoon Village, today announced funding to upgrade, expand and improve the Brigadoon Village. Important infrastructure upgrades to Brigadoon will allow an additional 254 campers to be onsite and provide all campers with better access to safer facilities, staff, and support programs and activities. These improvements will allow more children to engage safely with fellow campers and enjoy summertime recreation in an educational setting. The Government of Canada is investing $3 million in this project through the Rural and Northern Communities Infrastructure Stream (RNIS) of the Investing in Canada program. The Government of Nova Scotia is contributing $3 million while Brigadoon Village will raise the balance of the funding. Quotes "Rural and smaller communities like Kings and Aylesford are such an important part of the fabric of this country. COVID-19 has impacted communities like these in a variety of unique ways. The upgrades to the Brigadoon Village camp will foster a sense of inclusion and empowerment for children living with chronic illnesses who deserve an extraordinary summer camp experience. The federal government is and will continue to invest in projects that improve the quality of life for all Nova Scotians." Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities and Member of Parliament for Halifax, on behalf of the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development "The construction of these new buildings here at Brigadoon Village will ensure more kids get to enjoy the camp experience. By working together, we've accomplished something truly wonderful for campers old and new. The addition of Dave's Place will provide a venue for campers to explore their artistic abilities through arts, crafts, music and theatre ensuring Brigadoon continues to be an extraordinary place for extraordinary kids." The Honourable Leo Glavine, Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage "Today's announced funding from our federal and provincial governments will allow Brigadoon to expand the programs that have transformed the lives of Atlantic Canadian children living with health conditions and other life challenges. Brigadoon will be able to create a brighter future for so many more children and a brighter future for our region as we give more extraordinary children the opportunity to experience all that Brigadoon will be able to offer." Anne McGuire, Board Chair, Brigadoon Village Quick facts Through the Investing in Canada plan, the Government of Canada is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada's rural and northern communities. plan, the Government of is investing more than over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and rural and northern communities. $2 billion of this funding is supporting infrastructure projects that meet the unique needs of rural and northern communities to grow local economies, improve social inclusiveness, better safeguard the health and environment of rural and northern communities, and enhance broadband connectivity. In addition, $400 million is being delivered through the Arctic Energy Fund to advance energy security in the territories. is being delivered through the Arctic Energy Fund to advance energy security in the territories. The Government of Canada has invested more than $803 million in 191 infrastructure projects across Nova Scotia under the Investing in Canada plan. has invested more than in 191 infrastructure projects across under the plan. To support Canadians and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, a new stream has been added to the over $33-billion Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program to help fund pandemic-resilient infrastructure. Existing program streams have also been adapted to include more eligible project categories. Investing in Infrastructure Program to help fund pandemic-resilient infrastructure. Existing program streams have also been adapted to include more eligible project categories. The COVID-19 Resilience Stream will help other orders of governments whose finances have been significantly impacted by the pandemic by increasing the federal cost share for public infrastructure projects. The Canada Healthy Communities Initiative will provide up to $31 million in existing federal funding to support communities as they deploy innovative new ways to adapt spaces and services to respond to immediate and ongoing needs arising from COVID-19 over the next two years. Associated links Investing in COVID-19 Community Resilience: https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/covid-19-resilience-eng.html Canada Healthy Communities Initiative: https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/chci-iccs/index-eng.html Investing in Canada Plan Project Map: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/map Federal infrastructure investments on Nova Scotia: https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/about-invest-apropos-eng.html Investing in Canada: Canada's Long-Term Infrastructure Plan: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/icp-publication-pic-eng.html Rural Opportunity, National Prosperity: An Economic Development Strategy for Rural Canada: https://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/rural/strat-eng.html Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram Web: Infrastructure Canada SOURCE Infrastructure Canada For further information: Marie-Pier Baril, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development, 613-295-8123, [email protected]; Krista Higdon, Communications Advisor, Province of Nova Scotia, 902-220-6619, [email protected]; Media Relations, Infrastructure Canada, 613-960-9251, Toll free: 1-877-250-7154, Email: [email protected] Related Links www.infrastructure.gc.ca As the number of unrestricted international travel options for British holidaymakers shrinks towards zero, the government has indicated it may finally allow testing to reduce the length of quarantine for arrivals to the UK. Ministers have repeatedly said that a Covid-19 test on arrival would identify only 7 per cent of people with the virus, though that figure based on a theoretical paper written in June has been widely disputed. Dozens of countries are using testing either as an alternative to quarantine or as a means to reduce the time travellers spend in self-isolation. With pressure growing from the aviation industry, the transport secretary, Grant Shapps, and the health secretary, Matt Hancock, are expected in the next few days to outline a test-and-quarantine programme. On Saturday, Stephen Barclay, the chief secretary to the treasury, told the Conservative Party conference the government is looking at what testing can we have at airports, and how does that interact with the quarantine rules?. The minister said that Germany, where passengers from high-risk countries are required to quarantine until a negative test result is processed, is being studied as a possible model. Heathrow has been calling for testing at airports for four months. A spokesperson for the UKs biggest gateway said: We look forward to seeing the detail in the coming days. Heathrow already has testing infrastructure in place and a green light to use it would be a welcome boost to UK exporters and businesses across the country that rely on foreign trade and visitors. Mr Shapps said in early July that some form of testing was being considered, and last month said the concept was under active review. One senior airline source told The Independent: By the time anything actually gets done there may not be anything left of the UK aviation industry to save. As coronavirus case rates in the UK surged way above most other nations, Germany placed the majority of the country in its high-risk category. Only travellers from the parts of England roughly south of the Humber and Mersey are exempt from quarantine. From the weekend, passengers arriving in the UK from Turkey and Poland must self-isolate for two weeks. Turkey was placed on the no-go list because of concerns about the reliability of its infection figures. Poland was added because it crossed the governments threshold of case rates, even though new infections in the UK are about three times higher. Gatwick airports chief executive, Stewart Wingate, has joined the calls for urgent action to allow families to meet at Christmas. Writing for Business Travel News, he criticised the governments approach to quarantine, saying: The unpredictable and sudden nature of these announcements has a dramatic impact on consumer confidence and traffic levels. It also forces us to take difficult, but necessary decisions about resizing our businesses and cutting jobs. The travel restrictions inflicting so much pain on the aviation industry are likely to continue for the foreseeable future. Quarantine could be lifted for passengers travelling between high-risk countries within Europe if they receive negative test results up to 72 hours before departure. A coordinated, risk-based approach could help save thousands of aviation jobs and we should do everything possible to have it in place in time for people to visit friends and family at Christmas. He said it may take four or five years for passenger numbers at Gatwick previously the busiest single-runway airport in the world to recover. The Civil Aviation Authority has revealed that one in five holders of Air Transport Organisers Licences (Atols) that expired at the end of September have not been renewed. Of the the 1,261 licences that expired on 30 September, 995 have been renewed and an additional 90 are still in process. Former minor opposition Justice Party Chairwoman Rep. Sim Sang-jung, fifth from left, Rep. Jang Hye-young, sixth from left, from the same party, and National Human Rights Commission of Korea Chairwoman Choi Young-ae, fourth from right, pose with ambassadors and other embassy officials from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, New Zealand and the United Kingdom during the Human Rights Conference on Anti-Discrimination Law in Seoul, Sept. 22. / Courtesy of Justice Party By Yi Whan-woo Australia, Canada, France, Germany, New Zealand and the United Kingdom, as minor Justice Party lawmaker Jang Hye-young put it, have a "deeply-rooted" history when it comes to anti-discrimination laws. This is why the Justice Party, in cooperation with the National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK), the National Assembly's forum on women's and children's rights and Amnesty International Korea, invited ambassadors and other embassy officials from the six countries to a conference on equality and anti-discrimination legislation last month. The Human Rights Conference on Anti-Discrimination Law took place on Sept. 22, on the occasion of Jang's proposal of a bill in July to ban all kinds of discrimination. This is the seventh bill of its kind, with Jang making the latest attempt. Previous attempts for such a law failed because of lack of public consensus on certain issues, such as homosexuality. A series of COVID-19-related discriminatory acts and stigma was another factor to consider in hosting the event. Rep. Jang Hye-young of the minor opposition Justice Party talks about her proposal of a bill in July to ban discrimination during a meeting of the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee, Sept. 21. / Yonhap Canadian Ambassador to Korea Michael Danagher noted that Canadian jurist John Humphrey played a significant role in writing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Adopted by the U.N. General Assembly in December 1948, the declaration is the world's most translated document, available in more than 500 languages and dialects. "This milestone document proclaimed that everyone is born free and equal in dignity and rights, no matter their identity, beliefs or circumstances," Danagher said, adding that it helped shape the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms of 1982. He said he was happy to see the National Assembly continue its efforts to legislate a comprehensive anti-discrimination law "with all the challenges it has faced, and will continue to face." French Ambassador to Korea Philippe Lefort noted that his country has sought to adapt and specify principles of equality since the French Revolution. He also noted "the road to this solid legislation was long" because many related issues were unsolved even after France became the first country to criminalize racial defamation and provocation by adopting an anti-discrimination law in 1972. "This is how French law has been able to evolve over time, without breaking with the spirit of its origins, to take into account the specific needs adapted to the evolution of society," Lefort said. German Ambassador-designate to Korea Michael Reiffenstuel noted that equality of all people before the law is anchored in Article 3 of German Basic Law. He highlighted the article's third paragraph that states that "no person shall be favored or disfavored because of their sex, parentage, race, language, homeland and origin, their faith or religious or political opinions or their disability." The legal framework for uniform protection against discrimination was created by the General Act on Equal Treatment, which took effect in 2006. "The laws to ensure equal rights and to prevent discrimination in Germany were developed on the basis of these rights of equality," he said. Coming from the first Asia-Pacific country to legalize same-sex marriage, New Zealand Ambassador to Korea Philip Turner said his country "has a strong history of protecting and promoting human rights both at home and internationally." He explained New Zealand's International Human Rights Action Plan focused on strengthening the rights of people with disabilities, the rights of women and girls, LGBTQI-related issues and abolishing the death penalty. "Protecting and promoting human rights lies at the core of our identity and they are central to our efforts to build strong, inclusive societies," he said. U.K. Deputy Ambassador Nik Mehta said growing demand for a change to U.K. laws for the better protection of his country's citizens led to the Equality Act in 2010. The U.K fully engaged in the U.N. Universal Periodic Review (UPR) on human rights issues as well, he said. "We strive to protect our citizens from discrimination, harassment and victimization, but we also recognize that everyone has a role to play in a secure and stable society," Metha said. "Our efforts toward fair and equal treatment for all our citizens remain a work in progress." Second Secretary Jason Deacon at the Australian Embassy in Korea attended the conference on behalf of Ambassador James Choi. In a written message, Choi pointed out that almost half of all Australians were either born overseas or had a parent born overseas. He noted this made Australia a "diverse, multicultural society that has welcomed people of all nationalities, religions and cultures over many decades." Ghostinis with Bloody Murder Sundried Tomato Tapenade Easy Preheat the oven to 200C. Trim the hard crusts from both ends of the loaf of bread. Slice the remaining loaf into 1/2- to 3/4-inch slices; you will have between 14 and 16 slices. Using the cookie cutter, cut 1 to 2 ghosts from each slice of brea A Niagara winery wants to turn empty wine bottles into meals for needy people. From Oct. 12 to 19, Flat Rock Cellars in Jordan Station wants people to drop off their empty wine bottles, with all the money generated from the returns going toward Feed Ontario, formerly the Ontario Association of Food Banks. Over the years, Flat Rock has donated more than $40,000 to that agency, which it said is the equivalent of 120,000 meals. For the eighth year, it is releasing Good Kharma Chardonnay with a portion of the sales revenue to be directed to Feed Ontario. Flat Rock proprietor Ed Madronich said its important to back groups like that, noting the added pressure of the pandemic makes it crucial to not only continue but to increase our support. Thats why, he said, Flat Rock partners with Feed Ontario during harvest and Thanksgiving. Good Kharma Chardonnay sells for $16.95 and is available at LCBO outlets as well as at the winery on Seventh Avenue. Auditor general earns Brocks honours Brock University Goodman School of Business has named its 2020 distinguished leader. The auditor general for Ontario, Bonnie Lysyk, will be honoured Oct. 19 during a virtual presentation and fireside chat with Goodman dean Andrew Gaudes, starting at 2:30 p.m. Its open to everyone, but pre-registration is required. Lysyk, who also serves on the Goodman schools advisory council, has been Ontarios auditor general since 2013. She previously served the same role for Saskatchewan, and as chief operating officer for the province of Manitoba and chief audit executive for the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission. Goodmans distinguished leader series honours Canadian business leaders each year, connecting them with the community and with Brock students. Niagara Health wins gold, silver for communications Niagara Health communications staff received high honours recently in the Canadian Public Relations Societys annual awards of excellence program. It received gold awards both for Canadian health-care campaign of the year, and employee engagement and internal communications campaign of the year. It was awarded silver for new product or service launch. The gold honours recognized Niagara Healths nine-month communications campaign to support its Accreditation 2019 for which it earned accreditation with exemplary standing, the highest rating. The silver recognition was for its communications strategy to support patient and family engagement. The COVID-19 pandemic has really reinforced the importance of strong, strategic communications and Ill be ever grateful to the communications team for the many ways they go above and beyond to product impactful work, said Niagara Health communications director Caroline Bourque Wiley, in a release. Digital service squads ready to help small businesses do better online The City of St. Catharines Digital Service Squad is back on the street, after the municipality received a $72,659 grant from FedDev Ontario through the Digital Main Street program. The digital service squads were launched locally in 2019 as part of a provincewide plan to support business improvement areas in municipalities across Niagara by helping them improve their online presence to become more resilient. They are composed of trained specialists who meet with small business operators at no cost to help them build their business online, using social media and website-building training. Some businesses might also qualify for a $2,500 digital transformation grant. Small businesses are facing overwhelming challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and have had to adapt quickly, said Brian York, the citys director of economic development and government relations, in a release. The Digital Service Squad program is part of a concerted effort to provide targeted support to small businesses and help shorten the learning curve that comes with getting their business online. This new program will focus on various parts of St. Catharines Facer Street, Queenston Street, Port Dalhousie and the downtown. India reports 3,33,533 new COVID cases in last 24 hours, recovery rate at 93.18 per cent Centre issues guidelines for reopening of schools from Oct 15; check details here India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Oct 05: Ministry of Education on Monday released guidelines for reopening of schools from 15th October in a graded manner. The guidelines have been issued in accordance with the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL). It also asked the states and Union territories to frame their own standard operating procedures (SOPs) for health and safety precautions, based on their local requirements. Coronavirus: Nagaland govt issues COVID-19 guidelines for Durga Puja celebrations The guidelines for reopening of schools are comprised of two parts one is SOP for health, hygiene, and safety and another is for learning with physical and social distancing. "Schools must arrange and implement for thorough cleaning and disinfecting of all areas, furniture, equipment, stationery, storage places, water tanks, kitchens, canteens, washrooms, laboratories, libraries on school campuses and ensure air flow in an indoor space," the ministry said in a set of guidelines for a gradual reopening of schools from October 15. Hathras Case: UP Police files 19 FIRs, ink thrown at AAP MP Sanjay Singh | Oneindia News "Schools may be encouraged to make their own SOPs based on the guidelines issued by states and UTs, keeping in view the safety and physical or social-distancing norms, and ensuring that the notices, posters, messages, communication to parents in this regard are prominently displayed and disseminated," it said. The ministry recommended that schools adopt flexible attendance and sick leave policies. "Flexible attendance and sick leave policies may be developed and implemented to encourage students and staff to stay at home when sick. Students may attend schools only with the written consent of parents. Students may opt for online classes rather than physically attend school. "There shall be no assessment up to 2-3 weeks of school reopening and use of ICT and online learning shall continue to be encouraged," it said. What the guidelines for reopening of schools from October 15? Students may attend schools only with the written consent of parents. There will be flexibility in attendance norms. Students may opt for online classes rather than physically attend school. Precautions to be taken for preparing and serving Midday Meal in schools. The alternative academic calendar of @ncert may be followed. No assessment till up to 2-3 weeks of school reopening. Use of ICT & online learning shall continue to be encouraged. The SOP also provides for guidelines on ensuring emotion well being of students and teachers with a reference drawn to Manodarpan initiative. Checklist for a safe school environment, as adopted from @UNICEFIndia guideline is provided for schools parents and students to contain the spread of COVID19. Universities and schools across the country were ordered shut on March 16 to contain the spread of the coronavirus. The amount of oil production increased in the Permian Basin and statewide during the month of July, according to preliminary totals released by the Railroad Commission. Midland County accounted for 14.9 million barrels, according to the RRC. That was more than 2 million barrels higher than in May. Midland and Martin counties combined for 24.544 million barrels, which was 3 million barrels more than May. And the eight Permian Basin counties that made the top-10 counties across the state accounted for 56.898 million more than 12 million more than May. Workers ran up 73,479 on wine, and BBC also paid 33,836 in beer and cider The BBC splashed out 125,000 on alcohol including 74,000 on wine and 34,000 on beer and cider in the last four years, according to figures. Data obtained through a freedom of information request gives insight into the broadcaster's lavish drinking culture, with the corporation spending 125,687 on alcohol between 2015-2019. Workers ran up a 73,479 bar tab on wine over this period and the BBC also paid for 33,836 in beer and cider through a single supplier, Majestic. The company's employees popped 14,606 worth of sparkling wine between 2016 and 2019, with 21,904 spent on booze in the last year alone. BBC workers ran up a 73,479 bar tab on wine between 2015-2019 at events such as press launches, award ceremonies and celebrating the successful completion of a series (file photo) A total of 1,328 was spent on spirits in 2018, decreasing to 220 the following year. Much of these costs would have been footed by the taxpayer through the licence fee, which costs 157.50 a year per household. The BBC said it serves the alcoholic refreshments at events where there is 'an appropriate business purpose' such as press launches, award ceremonies or to celebrate the successful completion of a series. Its expenses policy does not allow the purchase of champagne. The news has sparked further fury over BBC expenditure, after accounts published last month revealed staff pay spiked by 3.5 per cent to 1.5billion this year. Top earners Gary Lineker and Zoe Ball earn 1,350,000 and 1,364,999, respectively. Harry Fone, grassroots campaign manager of the TaxPayers' Alliance, said: 'It's disgraceful that BBC staff are popping corks at the expense of hard-pressed taxpayers. 'The licence fee lost its fizz decades ago and wasteful spending like this shows why it is no longer fit for purpose. 'The Beeb should call time on their boozing, axe the hated TV tax and stop forcing Brits to pay for something they don't want.' The BBC stripped most over 75s of their free licence fees in August after the government stopped paying for the service. Workers claimed the resources at New Broadcasting House in west London were substandard, with internet and phone connections often breaking down (file photo) The news follows accounts published last month revealing staff pay spiked by 3.5 per cent to 1.5billion this year with Zoe Ball, pictured in January 2019, earning 1,364,999 Director of Silver Voices campaign group Dennis Read added: 'Silver Voices is very concerned about this further evidence of skewed priorities from the BBC. 'How can the BBC justify huge presenter salaries and expenses like this, when thousands of hard-pressed senior citizens are being chased to spend the equivalent of one week's state pension on the licence fee? '23,000 would buy 146 free licences for the over 75s. We would say cheers to that!' A BBC spokesperson said: 'The BBC has strict rules around the purchase of alcohol meaning costs have been significantly cut in recent years and last year fell again by over 10 per cent.' It follows the broadcaster announcing sweeping changes to regional TV news and local radio in England in July, which will lead to 450 job cuts. (@ChaudhryMAli88) ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 30th Sep, 2020 ) :Ambassador Aftab Ahmed Khokher, presented his credentials to the Federal President of the Republic of Austria, Dr Alexander Van der Bellen, during an official ceremony held at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna Wednesday. Presenting his credentials, Ambassador Khokher conveyed to the Federal President the warm greetings of President Dr. Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan. He pledged to further strengthen and expand the bilateral relations between Pakistan and Austria, a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here said. President Van der Bellen noted that there was immense potential for cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the field of renewable energy, green economy and higher education. He praised Prime Minister Imran Khan's commitment to combating climate change and recalled his recent virtual address at the Austrian World Summit. He also appreciated Pakistan's COVID-19 related policies and measures. Ambassador Khokher, whose last assignment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad was Additional Secretary (Americas) has previously served as Pakistan's ambassador to Lebanon. He has also served at Pakistan's Permanent Mission to the United Nations in Geneva and as Pakistan's Consul General in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Ambassador Khokher will also be Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the Vienna-based international organizations which include the International Atomic Energy Agency, UN Industrial Development Organization, UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the UN Commission on International Trade Law. \932 The Turkish drill ship Yavuz has left the area where it was operating southwest of Cyprus and reached the Turkish coast, Refinitiv Eikon shipping data showed on Monday, in a move that may help ease tensions in the eastern Mediterranean. Cyprus' internationally recognised Greek Cypriot government has long been at odds with Turkey, which began drilling for oil and gas near Cyprus last year. The Yavuz vessel first began operations east of Cyprus in July 2019. Its latest operations to the southwest of the island, were most recently extended until Oct. 12 in a move which Greece described as provocative. The ship tracking data showed Yavuz as being near the port of Tasucu in Turkey's Mersin province on Monday morning, having departed on Sunday from an area southwest of Cyprus. On Friday, EU leaders assured Cyprus the bloc would punish Turkey if it continues drilling in disputed Mediterranean areas, after resisting Cypriot calls to impose sanctions on Ankara. Regional tensions have simmered since Turkish and Greek frigates collided at sea in August near a Turkish exploration vessel, but cooled after Turkey and Greece agreed to resume "exploratory talks" that ended in 2016. NATO announced on Thursday that the two countries, both alliance members, had set up a "military de-confliction mechanism" to avoid accidental clashes at sea. Turkish seismic research vessel Barbaros Hayrettin Pasa remains off southeastern Cyprus and its operations there have been extended to Oct. 18. The island of Cyprus was split after a 1974 Turkish invasion spurred by a brief coup engineered by the military then ruling Greece. Turkey does not recognise Cyprus' Greek government, and is the only country to recognise the breakaway Turkish Cypriot state in the north. Search Keywords: Short link: The Ontario government is trying to address a shortage of French teachers across the province. A Ministry of Education news release said the province is taking part in various initiatives, including career fairs and professional development working groups, to address the problem. Our government is committed to protecting and promoting French language, Education Minister Stephen Lecce said in the release issued last week. Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff, parliamentary assistant to the minister, spoke to the importance of the French language in schools. We are very proud of our thriving French-language education systems and FSL programs in Ontario, he said. The French language is one of our countrys official languages and an essential part of our countrys identity. We look forward to continued work with our valued stakeholders to make sure that all students in Ontario have access to quality education in French. The provinces plan includes partnering with Laurentian University to create a model to entice students and give them more options on how to complete their education, through online modules and concurrent education courses. The province is also supporting career fairs and partnering with two working groups to focus on professional development for French teachers and raise awareness of employment opportunities. The rising enrolment and increased popularity of our French-language and French as a second language programs, coupled with a long-standing national shortage of educators, underscores the need for action which is why we are ensuring schools have access to more qualified French-language educators, said Lecce. The 2020-21 academic year has more than 111,000 students enrolled in French-language schools. Also, there are more than one million students enrolled in a French as a second language program in the English-language school system, including 250,000 students enrolled in the French immersion program. The Ontario Public School Boards Association is pleased with the governments announcement. We look forward to continuing our collaborative work with the government in this area, said president Cathy Abraham. Said Melanie Joly, minister of official languages, Education is an essential pillar of the vitality of official languages and communities. Bilingualism is at the heart of Canadian identity and culture, and a major asset in the labour market. This type of investment supports francophone minority communities in addition to supporting the learning of French in immersion programs. Syria: Kurds release 20,000 civilians from ISIS camp (ANSAmed) - BEIRUT, 05 OTT - Kurdish-Syrian authorities intend to release over 20,000 Syrian civilians who are related to former ISIS jihadists or who come from areas that have long been dominated by ISIS, said Elham al Ahmad, a member of the Syrian Democratic Council which governs the semi-autonomous Kurdish-Syrian region. The institution manages refugee and detention camps in north-western and eastern Syria. The civilians over the past two years have been held in a refugee camp at the border with Iraq, al Ahmad said. The Al Hol camp has been hosting since 2019 tens of thousands of civilians, including Syrians and other nationalities, who have been displaced from areas of the Euphrates valley that ISIS had controlled from 2013 until 2018. According to UN estimates, some 25,000 Syrians, 30,000 Iraqis and 10,000 people of other nationalities remain at the camp. They are mostly women and children, the wives and children of former jihadists who were killed in action or imprisoned by the Coalition. With difficult hygienic and sanitary conditions and in a context of strong social tension, the Al Hol camp has been described by many as a ''hotbed of radicalization'' and as the ''last stronghold of ISIS'' in Syria. ISIS was defeated by the US-led international Coalition which includes Kurdish-Syrian fighters. The Kurdish-Syrian political administration, which dominates eastern and northwestern Syria, has long asked the international community to take charge of the expenses to run the Al Hol camp. ''The Syrian democratic council and the (Kurdish-Syrian) autonomous administration have decided to completely empty the camp of Syrians, only leaving foreigners'', al Ahmad was quoted as saying by media reports on Monday. Previously, small groups of Syrians were released after a series of agreements between the Kurdish administration and Arab tribal clans of northeastern and eastern Syria, from which hail the great majority of Syrians held since 2019 in Al Hol. (ANSAmed). Israel's Ministry of Defense has delivered the first of two "Iron Dome" indirect-fire protection systems to the U.S. Army, but it's still uncertain whether the technology will fit into the service's modernization vision. Rafael Advanced Defense System Limited's Iron Dome features the Tamir interceptor missile, produced by Raytheon, which is capable of engaging incoming threats launched from up to 40 miles away. Rafael announce the systems delivery to the Army Sept. 30. Read Next: The Army Thinks These Mixed-Reality 'Doggles' Can Make SpecOps Canines Better in Battle "The Iron Dome system, as a part of [Israel's] multi-layered missile defense system, reflects the strength of the Israeli defense establishment," Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz said in a Rafael news release. "As a result of the effectiveness of this system, many deaths were prevented on the home front of southern Israel. ... I am proud that this advanced system will also protect U.S. Army troops." The Army announced its plans to purchase Iron Dome in February 2019 to comply with the fiscal 2019 National Defense Authorization Act, which required the service to equip ground forces with two Iron Dome Batteries by 2020. The U.S. signed the formal deal with Israel in August 2019, according to the release. Rafael officials said that Iron Dome has participated in multiple Army tests at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. "To date, we have conducted three demonstrations and intercepted targets chosen by the U.S. Army for the Iron Dome system," Pini Yungman, Rafael executive vice president and head of its Air and Missile Defense Division, said in the release. But it's unclear whether Iron Dome will meet the Army's need for an interim indirect-fire protection capability, which modernization officials say will have to demonstrate its ability to plug into the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System, or IBCS, that the service has chosen to manage all of its air defense sensors and interceptor systems. The Army expects to receive the second Iron Dome battery by February and plans to spend next spring trying to ensure that the systems can work effectively with IBCS, according to service modernization officials. The Iron Dome systems will then compete in an Army shoot-off event in fall 2021; the event is open to all defense firms that can demonstrate that their systems can plug into IBCS. Next year, Iron Dome will complete 10 years of operational activity with more than 2,400 target interceptions, according to the Rafael release. "It is a great privilege for the State of Israel to deliver the first out of two Iron Dome batteries to the U.S. Army," Moshe Patel Rafael, the head of the Israel Missile Defense Organization, said in the release. "The very fact that we are handing over the first battery, a year after the agreement was signed, is an achievement in itself." -- Matthew Cox can be reached at matthew.cox@military.com. Related: Army Shoot-Off Will Pit Israel's Iron Dome Against Foreign Competitors File image US President Donald Trump's blood oxygen level dropped twice in recent days and he was given supplemental oxygen, the White House physician said on Sunday, asserting that his "condition has improved" since then and he could be discharged from the hospital as early as Monday. Trump, 74, and his wife First Lady Melania Trump, 50, tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday, a development that upended the Republican leader's election campaign just weeks before the presidential polls on November 3. Trump was flown to Walter Reed Military Medical Centre in Bethesda, a Maryland suburb of Washington DC, on Friday. "Late Friday morning, when I returned to the bedside, the president had a high fever and his oxygen saturation was transiently dipping below 94 per cent," White House physician Dr Sean Conley told reporters outside the hospital on Sunday. After this the president was given supplemental oxygen for about an hour on Friday. He also experienced a drop in oxygen level on Saturday, but the doctors said he wasn't sure whether Trump was given supplemental oxygen a second time. COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show "I'd have to check with the nursing staff. I don't think that - if he did, it was very, very limitedAnd the only oxygen that I ordered, or that we provided, was that Friday morning, initially," he said. Conley said that there has been improvement and the president has no fever since Friday. He could be discharged from the hospital as early as Monday, he added. He said the president was given dexamethasone, a steroid, after his blood oxygen level dipped on Saturday. In a video posted late Saturday, Trump said he has started to "feel much better" and thanked the American people and global leaders for their support. "I came here. Wasn't feeling so well. I feel much better now. We're working hard to get me all the way back. I have to be back because we still have to Make America Great Again, Trump said in the video message from the military hospital in a suburb of Washington on Saturday. President Trump is feeling very well, but will stay hospitalised, White House national security adviser Robert O'Brien said. on Sunday. Conley earlier said the president is "not yet out of the woods". "While not yet out of the woods, the team remains cautiously optimistic, he said, adding that the plan for Sunday is to continue observation in between doses of Remdesivir, closely monitoring his clinical status while fully supporting his conduct of presidential duties. Conley, in a memorandum issued late Saturday night, said the president had received Regeron's antibody cocktail on October 2. "President Trump continues to do well, having made substantial progress since diagnosis," Conley said, adding that the president completed his second dose of Remdesivir without complications. Conley said the president remains fever free and off supplemental oxygen with a saturation level between 96 and 98 per cent all day. The president, he said, spent most of the afternoon conducting business, and has been up and moving about the medical suit without difficulty. In the video message, that lasted for a little over four minutes and was posted by Trump on Twitter, the president asserted that he has to come back to win the election and complete the job. "We still have steps to go and we have to finish that job. And I'll be back. I think I'll be back soon. I look forward to finishing up the campaign the way it was started and the way we've been doing," he said. The president said he is fighting the virus and expressed hope to beat it. We've been so proud of it. But this was something that happened and it's happened to millions of people all over the world and I'm fighting for them. Not just in the US, I'm fighting for them all over the world. We're going to beat this coronavirus or whatever you want to call it. And we're going to beat it soundly, Trump said. Trump said the therapeutics which he is taking are nothing less than miracles. "People criticize me when I say that, but we have things happening that look like they're miracles coming down from God. So, I just want to tell you that I'm starting to feel good, he said. However, he said the next few days are going to be the real test. So, we'll be seeing what happens over those next couple of days. I just want to be so thankful for all of the support I've seen, whether it's on television or reading about it. I, most of all appreciate, what's been said by the American people, by almost a bipartisan consensus of American people. It's a beautiful thing to see. I very much appreciate it. And I won't forget it promise you that, he said. The president also thanked the leaders of the world for their well-wishes. They know what we're going through. They know what as your leader, what I have to go through. But I had no choice because I just didn't want to stay in the White House, he said. Trump also said he was given the alternative to be under lockdown in the White House, staying in his bedroom and not to go even to the Oval Office. Asserting that he can't do that, Trump said he had to be out front. "This is America. This is the United States. This is the greatest country in the world. This is the most powerful country in the world. I can't be locked up in a room upstairs and totally safe and just say, Hey, whatever happens happens. I can't do that. We have to confront problems as a leader, you have to confront problems, he said. Trump further said the First Lady, who had also tested positive for coronavirus is doing well at the White House. Adorable footage of a little girl taking a nap while snuggling up to her two furry friends has melted the hearts of millions in China. The three-year-old is seen holding her pet cat, 'Motor', in her arms while being spooned by her golden retriever, Dabao, as the trio enjoyed an afternoon snooze together. Other heart-warming clips shared by the girl's mother show her two pets acting as animal babysitters as they cuddled and played with her daughter. Adorable footage of a little girl from Heilongjiang taking a nap while snuggling up to her two furry friends has melted the hearts of millions on Douyin, the Chinese equivalent of TikTok The three-year-old little girl is seen holding her pet cat, 'Motor', in her arms while being spooned by her golden retriever, Dabao, as the trio enjoyed an afternoon snooze together The parent, who lives in northeast China's Heilongjiang province, has been documenting the daily life of her little girl and two pets on social media since 2018. In one video, Dabao and Motor are seen taking a nap when their little owner decided to join them as she lied down between her two furry friends and snuggled up to them. Another clip shows the girl playing dress-up with her 'babysitters' as the little doctor examined and treated her two animal patients with toy band-aids and IV-drip. The mother wrote in her post: 'Ever since I had the child, our dog stopped destroying furniture and our cat stopped scratching walls. It's amazing!' The Chinese monther, who lives in northeast China's Heilongjiang province, has been documenting the daily life of her little girl and two pets on social media since 2018 Heart-warming clips shared by the little Chinese girl's mother show her two pets, Dabao and Motor, acting as two animal babysitters as they cuddled and played with her daughter Her account on Chinese TikTok-like Douyin has attracted 3.5million followers who are touched by the beautiful relationship between the child and her pets, seven-year-old Dabao and six-year-old Motor. One commenter wrote: 'You have a dog, a cat and a baby. You are a winner of life! I'm so jealous.' Another one said: 'What a lucky little girl! The cat and dog love her so much that they let her do whatever she likes.' The parent, who lives in northeast China's Heilongjiang province, has been documenting the daily life of her little girl and two pets on social media with 3.5million followers on Douyin A third netizen commented: 'This is so heart-warming! The cat is always protecting the girl, it follows her wherever she goes.' The viral footage comes as another pet owner in China has captured the adorable friendship between his golden retriever and cat. The dog, nicknamed Duo Duo, is seen in a video lovingly licking his best friend cat 'Snowball' as the pair cuddled up together at their home in Guangzhou. The Chinese owner, known by his surname An, told reporters that his two pets shared a strong bond after growing up together. 09:42 Trump, 74, was admitted to the Walter Reed Medical Centre on Friday after he and First Lady Melania Trump, 50, were tested positive for COVID-19. While the president was taken to the military hospital, the First Lady stayed back at the White House. Trump on Monday was discharged from the hospital after doctors treating him found him fit enough to go back home. The president said he was feeling much better two days ago. "I could have left (Walter Reed) two days ago. Two days ago, I felt great like better than I have in a long time I said just recently, better than 20 years ago. Don't let it (COVID-19) dominate. Don't let it take over your life," he said in the recorded video. Asserting that US is the greatest country in the world, Trump said, "We are going back to work. We're going to be out front. As your leader I had to do that. I knew there's danger to it. But I had to do it. I stood out front. I lead." Trump said he knows that there is a risk, there is a danger, "but that's okay". "Now I'm better. And maybe I'm immune? I don't know. But, don't let it dominate your lives. Get out there. Be careful. We have the best medicines in the world. And they're all happened very shortly. They are all getting approved. The vaccines are coming momentarily," he said. US President Donald Trump has asked Americans not to be "afraid" of COVID-19 as he returned to the White House after spending three nights at a military hospital where he was treated for the deadly viral infection. "You are gonna beat it," Trump said on Monday in a video posted on Twitter. "I learned so much about coronavirus. One thing that's for certain, don't let it dominate you. Don't be afraid of it. You're gonna beat it. We have the best medical equipment. We have the best medicines. All developed recently," he said. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 23:51:25|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close Portraits of the 2020 Nobel laureates in Physiology or Medicine are seen at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, on Oct. 5, 2020. (Photo by Wei Xuechao/Xinhua) This year's Nobel Prize is awarded to three scientists who have made a decisive contribution to the fight against blood-borne hepatitis, a major global health problem that causes cirrhosis and liver cancer in people around the world. STOCKHOLM, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Three scientists share the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, the Nobel committee announced here on Monday. The Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet has today decided to award the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine jointly to Harvey J. Alter, Michael Houghton and Charles M. Rice "for the discovery of Hepatitis C virus." "For the first time in history, the Hepatitis C virus can now be cured. The 2020 Medicine Laureates' discoveries revealed the cause of the remaining cases of chronic hepatitis and made possible blood tests and new medicines that have saved millions of lives," the committee said. Achievements of the 2020 Nobel laureates in Physiology or Medicine are explained at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, on Oct. 5, 2020. (Photo by Wei Xuechao/Xinhua) Thomas Perlmann, secretary-general of the Nobel Committee and the Nobel Assembly, told a press conference that he was able to reach two of the three laureates, and when they were informed of the news, they were "extremely surprised, happy, and almost speechless." This year's Nobel Prize is awarded to three scientists who have made a decisive contribution to the fight against blood-borne hepatitis, a major global health problem that causes cirrhosis and liver cancer in people around the world. Harvey J. Alter, Michael Houghton and Charles M. Rice made seminal discoveries that led to the identification of a novel virus, Hepatitis C virus. Prior to their work, the discovery of the Hepatitis A and B viruses had been critical steps forward, but the majority of blood-borne hepatitis cases remained unexplained. The discovery of Hepatitis C virus revealed the cause of the remaining cases of chronic hepatitis and made possible blood tests and new medicines that have saved millions of lives, according a statement released by the committee. Thomas Perlmann, secretary-general of the Nobel Committee and the Nobel Assembly, speaks during a press conference in Stockholm, Sweden, Oct. 5, 2020. (Photo by Wei Xuechao/Xinhua) Harvey J. Alter, born in 1935 in the U.S., received his medical degree at the University of Rochester Medical School, and worked at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Michael Houghton, born in the UK, received his PhD degree from King's College London, and is currently a Canada Excellence Research Chair in Virology. Charles M. Rice, born in 1952 in the U.S., received his PhD degree from the California Institute of Technology, is working at the Rockefeller University, New York, according to a statement from the Nobel Assembly at Karolinska Institutet. According to the Nobel Foundation earlier, this year's prize is 10 million Swedish krona (about 1.12 million U.S. dollars), which will be equally shared among the three laureates. A: I want to see this community thrive and provide the youth of this city the tools to become responsible, contributing adults who see a bright future for themselves and future generations here in York. Q: The city has just passed a balanced budget with more than $2 million in reserves for the fiscal year of 2020-21. Do you think there are any specific projects that should be budgeted for and undertaken in the fiscal year of 2021-22? A: Street repair and upgrades have been pushed back to make room for other uses of funds. These projects are important to Yorks infrastructure and will become more and more costly as they are put off. It should be a priority to address these issues in with a cost effective multi-year strategy. I would also like to work with the Library and Community Center to ensure their funding is adequate to expand on youth programs and activities. Young people are the future of York. Providing tools for learning and promoting healthy habits are great ways to ensure long-term success for them and the community as a whole. Q: What are the most positive aspects about living and working in the York community? 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As per new instructions, a Booth Level Officer (BLO) will visit the houses of the concerned electors in the polling station area and deliver 12-D form. The elector may or may not opt for postal ballot in the acknowledgement attached with the form 12-D. In case the elector goes for postal ballot, then the BLO will collect the filled-in form 12-D from the elector within five days of the notification and deposit it with the Returning Officer (RO). Thereafter, the Returning Officer will deploy polling team, who will deliver and collect the postal ballot on a pre-informed date and deposit it with the RO. Under the new system, those willing to use the facility have to fill up a form and officials then carry the ballot to the residence of such voters and videograph the voting to ensure transparency. These instructions have been issued based on the feedback the poll panel received from civil society and media during the visit of the EC team to poll-bound Bihar last week. The EC said these fresh instructions would be applicable to all elections and by-elections, including the bypolls announced last week to 56 assembly and one Lok Sabha seat. Meanwhile, the ECI has appointed two former Indian Revenue Service officers -- Madhu Mahajan of 1982 batch and B.R. Balakrishnan of 1983 batch -- as special expenditure observers for the Bihar polls to oversee efforts by the enforcement machinery to check attempts to induce voters with cash, liquor and freebies. The LJP on Sunday decided to put up its candidates against the JD(U) citing 'ideological differences' and asserted it will not accept Kumar's leadership of the National Democratic Alliance New Delhi: A day after walking out of the NDA in Bihar targeting Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) president Chirag Paswan appealed to people not to vote for Kumar's JD(U) and claimed that an alliance of his party and the BJP will come to power in the state after the Assembly polls. In an open letter, Paswan told the voters of Bihar that a vote for the Janata Dal (United) will force the migration of their children tomorrow as he sought their support for his party candidates in the three-phase poll starting 28 October. The LJP on Sunday decided to put up its candidates against the JD(U) citing "ideological differences" with the party to assert that it will not accept Kumar's leadership of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is the principal member of the NDA and it has already announced Kumar as the leader of the bloc in the state. "This is the most decisive moment in the history of the state of Bihar. It is a question of life and death of the 12 crore people of the state and we have no time to lose.... The road ahead is not easy for the LJP but we will fight and win too," Paswan said. All LJP MLAs will work under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he added. The 37-year-old leader also made a reference to his ailing father, Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, who has undergone a heart surgery at a private hospital in Delhi and is expected to remain hospitalised for some time. He spoke of his "Bihar first, Bihari first" vision document and said his father would be proud that his son has stuck to the issue he had raised through it. Citing his party's differences with the JD(U), Paswan said be it the growing bureaucracy in Bihar, the ruling party's treatment of its allies or its agenda, people's grievances are not being addresses either by the officials or the chief minister. A young mother has died at the age of 38 after contracting an aggressive form of cancer doctors had for months mistaken for fatigue. Active Cairns mother-of-two and yoga instructor Jody Vallely lost her close to four-year battle with lung cancer on September 23. Ms Vallely was first diagnosed with the illness in December 2016 and was told she may only live for another three months. But the US-born mother to Will, five, and Olivia, three, fought to be there for her children during their early years - only succumbing to the cancer after it spread to her brain and other parts of her body. Jody Vallely pictured with her husband Dan and children Olivia, three, and Will, five. The mother-of-two lost her close to four-year battle with lung cancer on September 23 Ms Vallely - who moved to Australia to be with her husband Dan - (pictured together) was first diagnosed with the illness in December 2016 Ms Vallely went to her doctor in July 2016 complaining of lumps she found in her neck, but the fit and healthy mum was told they were caused by the daily grind of raising young children. After marrying her husband Dan Vallely in September of that year, the former ballet dancer went to a chiropractor with back pain - and it was only then the mass on her lungs was detected by an X-ray. Sister-in-law Kristy Vallely said her relative soldiered on valiantly through her honeymoon in Europe and to be around for her children. 'Her whole focus was her children and her husband I reckon that's what made her fight so hard to be here,' the sister-in-law told Daily Mail Australia. Ms Vallely soldiered on valiantly through her honeymoon in Europe and to be around for her children 'She was an inspiration because she really missed her family in the US but she followed her dream of marrying her husband and having children and starting a new life. 'She never gave up, and fought to the end to stay with her loved ones.' Ms Vallely met her future husband in Palm Beach, Florida while he was working as a travelling engineer on luxury yachts and moved to Australia in 2012. 'From 2012 she made a huge network of friends and people who followed her through her work as a yoga teacher,' the relative said. Ms Vallely pictured with her husband. 'Her whole focus was her children and her husband I reckon that's what made her fight so hard to be here,' the sister-in-law said 'She was very health conscious and a huge advocate for healthy living. 'Ballet dancers have quite a high threshold for pain so I wonder if that may have been the reason why the cancer wasn't picked up earlier.' She said if doctors had picked up the cancer earlier, Ms Vallely may still be alive today. Well-wishers - joined by family and friends watching on live-stream from the US due to COVID-19 - will farewell the young mother at a funeral service on Wednesday. It's officially pumpkin season and Kylie Jenner is loving every minute. The reality star was in the mood for some fall fun on Monday as she took her two-year-old daughter Stormi to a pumpkin patch at a farm in Moorpark, California. Sharing snippets to social media the 23-year-old documented a tractor ride and strolls with Stormi's dad Travis Scott through a field of flowers. Family time: Kylie Jenner shared snaps from her day out with Stormi on Monday as they visited a pumpkin patch in Moorpark, California Taking to Instagram stories, the makeup mogul - who co-parents her only child with the Franchise rapper - posted a clip of her little girl sitting on the back of a tractor trailer driving through a field of sunflowers. The doting mom also shared snaps of the tot wearing a white Balenciaga T-shirt and grey leggings as she looked at flowers and got a hug from the hip hop star. Kylie also gave a peek at what produce was for sale at the farm which is located about 30 minutes north of her $12 million Hidden Hills home. Sweet moment: Stormi, two, got a hug from dad Travis Scott as they strolled through a field of flowers On the move: Stormi enjoyed a tractor ride on the day out and wore a Balenciaga T-shirt with grey pants Fall vibes: The TV star also shared a glimpse at some of the produce on sale at Underwood Family Farms Later on Monday the mother-of-one shared some cute snaps of her cuddling up to Stormi as they baked Halloween cookies. The mother-daughter duo wore matching Peanuts pajamas as they posed in the kitchen with their sugary creations. 'back with my favorite girl baking halloween cookies' Kylie captioned the collection of images while encouraging her followers to check out the Youtube video of the baking fun. Mom and daughter time: Later on Monday Kylie shared photos from her cookie-baking session with her little girl Too cute! Kylie and Stormi wore matching Peanuts pajamas as they enjoyed baking fun 'back with my favorite girl baking halloween cookies' Kylie captioned the collection of images Bonding time: In the accompanying Youtube video the duo show the cookie making process It comes days after Kylie was criticized for giving Stormi a $12,000 Hermes backpack for her first day of school. Real Housewives of New York alum Bethenny Frankel was one of those most outspoken critics as she wrote on Instagram: 'I never say anything about this stuff but this is the most transparent humble brag I've seen yet. It's everything wrong with everything.' However, after receiving some backlash, Bethenny defended her comment on an Us Weekly Instagram post, adding: 'I'm no stranger to an @Hermes_Paris bag & have a daughter & luxury cars, but flaunting (under the guise of a back to school post) during a pandemic & the greatest unemployment crisis in our lifetime is a choice.' Tradition: The baking session comes after Kylie made Christmas cookies with her little girl last year Fun with mom: The toddler appeared to love every minute of it The Skinnygirl founder was not alone in her feelings on the matter either, as her comment received almost 3,000 likes, as other users quickly chimed in. 'We are in the middle of a pandemic. Some kids can't even do distance learning because they are homeless with no computer no WiFi no home! This is disgusting,' one person wrote. Another female fan wrote: 'Sad day when people are struggling with homeschooling their children being out of work or working from home and you are showing off a garage full of expensive cars and an expensive backpack for a child!!!!' Enjoying the outdoors: Kylie is pictured here enjoying a hike near her Hidden Hills mansion on Friday NBU chief's two deputies see no-confidence vote by Council 22:30, 05.10.20 1410 The Council of the National Bank is responsible for the development of the Basic Principles of Monetary Policy, overseeing the implementation of monetary policy. Sensyne Health is at an important inflexion point not fully understood by the market, according to the company's broker, Liberum, which has provided updated analysis of the med-tech firm's prospects. 'Looking ahead, the group is well placed to accelerate its commercialisation plans through the three partnerships it struck within its discovery science division and the launch of its innovative app portfolio in the US from its software products division,' investors were told. Headed by former science minister and serial entrepreneur, Lord Drayson, Sensyne specialises in the ethical application of clinical artificial intelligence (AI). ADVERTISEMENT Practically, this means it develops software that connects clinicians with patients, while it also works with NHS trusts to garner insights from data using technology developed in partnership with Oxford University. New insights The NHS holds cradle-to-grave health data that is now largely digitised and focused on medical outcomes. By applying AI, Sensyne is aiming to unearth crucial new information that could improve clinical trial success rates, reduce approval times, or even help researchers find new drug targets. Sensyne aims to operate in a 'transparent, fair and effective' way with patients and clinicians and the healthcare providers and life science companies that use NHS records. This means there is a case-by-case approval process in place for each new contract or project. This is not is about wholesale data mining. Third-party validation of Sensyne's model came in the form of its first major pharmaceutical collaboration a 5million deal with German giant Bayer. It is also working with Switzerland's Roche to apply AI to trial design and it has an agreement with Alexion, the Boston-based biopharma group. Key developments include the launch of SENSE, a clinical algorithm engine created in partnership with Microsoft. Working with Chelsea & Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, the technology will help provide personalised care for coronavirus sufferers. Most recently Sensyne headed north of the border to expand its cache of anonymised health data by signing an agreement with the Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS Trust. Sensyne Health shares (currently trading at 54p each) have endured collateral damage from the closure of investor Neil Woodford's positions App success Sensyne's prelims, meanwhile, revealed that apps such as its lead product GDm-Health, which is a prescribed digital therapeutic for remote management of diabetes in pregnancy, have seen significant adoption by doctors during the coronavirus outbreak. ADVERTISEMENT Building on this success, Sensyne has launched BPm-Health for the management of blood pressure in pregnancy in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as creating DBm-Health for people with or at risk of diabetes. It is working with AI specialist Agorai in the US and has also teamed up with Cognizant, one of the world's leading IT services businesses, to launch products in the States. On the Cognizant tie-up, Liberum points out: 'It already has a product called Trizetto Tranzform that allows physicians to access real-time data and hence has the capabilities and distribution channels to commercialise Sensyne's portfolio.' Closer to home, it has teamed up with Oxford University to provide the data analysis for a phase II clinical study of a blockbuster arthritis drug that is being re-purposed to tackle the potentially fatal symptoms of Covid-19. The trial is funded by a group led by the Wellcome Trust and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which provides significant third-party validation for technology. Significant top-line growth predicted Sensyne reported 2million of revenues in the year to April 30, 2020. It sank 11.4million into research and development and made a loss from operations of 16.5million. More importantly, it has the cash required to achieve its commercial goals with 31.7million on the balance sheet as of April 30, 2020. 'Based on our forecasts we believe this leaves the company funded well into 2022 which allows for its potentially highly lucrative app partnership with Cognzant to ramp-up,' said Liberum in its results round-up. ADVERTISEMENT It is predicting the group will achieve sales of 9.6million in the current financial year, rising to almost 22million in 12 months' time. Liberum values the stock at 260p. Reiterating its 'buy' advice, Liberum's 260p price target comes from some fairly conservative assumptions for the app business, contract outsourcing and the drug discovery activities. Senysne's shares performance since its flotation in 2018 The shares (currently trading at 54p each) have endured collateral damage from the closure of investor Neil Woodford's positions, compounded by what Liberum describes as 'corporate governance issues'. It says both problems should now be considered historic. Chief executive Drayson in his results commentary said the wider adoption of clinical artificial intelligence and remote patient monitoring during the pandemic 'underlined the growth potential' of Senysne's model and what it can deliver. Liberum concurs with this view: 'We believe that Sensyne has made significant progress since listing and particularly since the Covid-19 outbreak. 'However, this has been overshadowed by the closing down of the Woodford investment fund and corporate governance issues. ADVERTISEMENT 'We think that both issues are behind the business whereas investors can look forward to an accelerating revenue profile, a US launch of its app portfolio and more strategic deals.' CHICOPEE When Jim Robinson opened his vape store five years ago, his goal was to expand into a retail cannabis store once marijuana was legalized. After slogging through the state application process and facing multiple setbacks over the past two years, Robinson is now taking his last steps to opening by seeking a special permit from the city for JimBuddys Rec Shop on Memorial Drive. Robinson appeared before the City Councils zoning committee Wednesday. But the board postponed the vote and recommended he withdraw his application temporarily, until a traffic study is completed and his landlord resolves violations on the propertys parking lot. It would behoove the property owner to fix this issue to allow a possible tenant to move forward with permitting for their store, City Planner Lee Pouliot said. The property otherwise meets local requirements for a recreational marijuana license. Because the parking lot is small, Robinson said, he has leased 25 parking spaces from the neighboring Masses Seafood for staff and overflow customers. Robinson said he also has gone above and beyond all security requirements including agreeing to hire off-duty police Thursday through Sunday. If everything goes smoothly over the next few months and Robinson can receive a special use permit and final license from the state, he said he hopes to be able to sell his first cannabis products in early 2021. Provided the permits are granted, the store will be the third recreational marijuana facility in the city. The other two are Mass Alternative Care on East Main Street and Theory Wellness on Fuller Road, according to state records. It will be a small boutique shop, Robinson said. We will use our experience to teach customers how it affects the body, about the potency levels, and we will educate you on different uses. Robinson said he plans to sell all the standard products, edibles, topical creams, and cannabis flower, which is about 60% of all sales in recreational shops. We plan to be on top of the newest and best products. Since he will not cultivate marijuana, Robinson said he has been researching and visiting growers across the state to find the products he feels will be the best for his customers. Robinson, who said he has been using cannabis as medication for years, is the first social equity applicant in the city. He qualifies because he has two prior convictions for marijuana possession. The equity program is designed to help those impacted by marijuana probation and the war on drugs. He has been researching the industry since it was first legalized in the United States in Colorado, and has visited other states including Washington, Oregon, Nevada and Arizona to see how they rolled out the legalization of cannabis. Marijuana has been part of my life for years, he said. We used vaping as a stepping stone to lead me into the cannabis industry. In 2015 he and his wife, Lisa Robinson, opened JimBuddys Vape Shop (inspired by a childhood nickname) at 1271 Memorial Drive, selling a variety of products including e-cigarettes and different types of vape liquids. He also sells pipes and other products used to smoke medical marijuana, which had been legalized. The business turned out to be successful on its own. As vaping grew more and more popular, JimBuddys developed a loyal customer base and more than 100 customers walked through the door daily. I think it was because of our customer service. We are willing to spend the time to educate people on different products and ways to use them, said Kristie Robinson, who has been working in the family store for a few years. Vaping, like marijuana, is often thought of as an insider activity and many people arent interested in teaching people who dont know much about it but Robinson said he is exactly what he wants to do. Along with his years of using marijuana when it was not legal, Robinson said he was also a licensed medical marijuana caregiver for two years, providing it to people with prescriptions. About a year after JimBuddys opened, voters cast ballots to legalize recreational marijuana. Robinson waited as the state wrote regulations to license businesses. The first two stores opened in the state in November 2018. Around that time the store next to JimBuddys became vacant, and he quickly rented it in anticipation of applying for a license to open his own recreational business. He and his wife applied for the license themselves instead of hiring a lawyer, so it took time to research all the regulations and processes. They submitted the state application in January 2019 and he signed a host agreement with then-Mayor Richard J. Kos in February. As they started working through the state process of answering questions and providing additional information, a crisis hit Robinsons main business when people started falling ill to a lung disease tied to vaping. In September 2019 Gov. Charlie Baker declared an emergency ban on all vape products sold in the state while officials tried to track the cause of the disease. The ban was lifted in December, but the legislature passed a law ending the sale of flavored vape liquid, which was the bulk of Robinsons business. He said his focus was then trying to save the business he had built in the past five years. By then there were multiple cannabis stores opened in the region so he changed the stores focus from being a vape shop with some products used for smoking cannabis to mainly a head shop that sold some vape products. The store will remain if Robinson is able to open his cannabis store, he said. Still, Kristie Robinson said at least four times a week someone comes in thinking they sell cannabis. She said she always tells people they hope to soon. In December Robinson received word from the state that his application was complete, but he still needed a special permit from the city. So, he and his wife resumed their focus on opening the new cannabis business. Then the COVID-19 pandemic hit and anything that didnt completely shut down in March slowed to a crawl. For example, Robinson said he is just now able to find an engineer to do a traffic study, something that he had been trying to do for months but could not because of the pandemic. If the special permit is approved, Robinson said he will return to the state for a provisional license. Renovations to the store next door have begun and he will complete them following state specifications laid out in the provisional license. Once they are finished he will receive his final license. Even as he is working to open his store soon, Robinson is already thinking of the next step. He would like to open a cannabis delivery business to go with the retail establishment and later he may consider a cultivation business as well. He is also preparing to open a vape store in Enfield where restrictions are not as strict. Related Content: OAKLAND COUNTY, MI - The suspect in the fatal shooting outside a Pontiac haunted house was captured near the Indiana border Saturday, police said. Damon Parker Terrelle, a 17-year-old Detroit man, was taken into custody by the Oakland County Fugitive Apprehension Team and the United States Marshals Service on Oct. 3, said the Oakland County Sheriffs Office in a release. Terrelle is suspected of shooting and killing 29-year-old Douglas Reese outside the popular Erebus Haunted House, 18 S. Perry St. in Pontiac, police said. Read more: Man killed during argument at haunted house identified as welder from Detroit Terrelle, who had no previous criminal history, was transported to the Oakland County Jail, police said. He was arraigned on Saturday on one charge of first-degree murder, one for felony possession of a firearm and one for illegally carrying a concealed weapon. The maximum punishment for murder is life in prison. Terrelles bond was denied. His next court date is in the 50th District Court in Pontiac at a yet-to-be-determined date. Police were looking for the suspect since the Sunday, Sep. 27, shooting of Reese. Read more: Police seek help finding suspect in homicide outside Michigan haunted house Deputies with the Oakland County Sheriffs Office and STAT EMS responded shortly after 12:30 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 27, to the haunted house. The caller said Reese was laying on the ground in a nearby parking lot, per a statement issued by the sheriffs office. Witnesses had heard gunfire. Reese was shot in the side, neck and chest. Reese and his girlfriend were waiting in line to enter the haunted house when a man ahead of them allegedly would not move, police said. Reese and the suspect exchanged words; the suspect thought Reese had cut in line ahead of him. Reese told his girlfriend he was going to his vehicle, police said. The suspect and the victim then went separately to the parking lot. Thats when witnesses heard shots fired. Reese was transported to McLaren Oakland hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Read more: Man killed in house explosion north of Ann Arbor, police say Man killed, FBI agent wounded in Madison Heights shooting After 6-year-old killed execution-style, Michigan police may ask feds to seek death penalty Michigan man charged by AG with numerous sex offenses in two counties Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain The Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), a center supported by the "la Caixa" Foundation, in coordination with the City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy (CUNY SPH) and other international institutions, has developed an easy and reliable tool to evaluate the public perception of governmental response to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to an analysis of the first results obtained across 19 countries, the COVID-SCORE questionnaire can help public health officials and other decision makers identify and correct weaknesses in key aspects of a country's response, and track trends as the pandemic evolves. Government response to the COVID-19 pandemic has varied considerably between countries. Although most governments have implemented a series of common measures such as mobility restrictions, closure of businesses, places of worship and schools, or shelter-at-home orders, the timing and approach have differed. One key element that determines the course of a pandemic is a society's compliance with such measures, which in turn depends on several factors such as trust in government or the clarity of the information that government sources provide. "We need basic tools to help us assess the public perception of government responses in key aspects such as communication, or access to health services and social welfare," says Jeffrey V Lazarus, researcher at ISGlobal. Together with international colleagues, Lazarus coordinated the development of COVID-SCORE with 10 items related to key aspects of the government response, to be rated by the interviewees. The study Lazarus and his colleagues published in PLOS ONE validates the tool and presents the first results from a survey conducted in June 2020 with over 13,400 participants from 19 countries heavily affected by the pandemic. The average score varied considerably between countriesfrom 35.76 out of a maximum of 100 for Ecuador to 80.48 for China, the country whose response was rated most positively. Countries in Asia tended to have higher scores, while Latin-American and European countries were among those with lowest scores. As expected, the average score for a country was strongly associated with the level of trust in government, as reported in this survey and measured independently by the Wellcome Global Monitor. "We know that public compliance with preventive measures greatly depends on the trust in public health experts, health systems and science," says Ayman El-Mohandes, Dean of CUNY SPH. Higher COVID-19 mortality or a greater percentage of respondents directly affected by the disease correlated with a lower score for the country, the researchers found. The average score for the United States, with 773 respondents, was 50.57. Highest rated (3.16 out of 5) was the government's assistance with income, food, and shelter during the pandemic: this finding corresponds with the timing of the survey, which took place soon after initial emergency funds were distributed last spring. Notably, the US ranked seventeenth among the 19 countries surveyed with regard to government cooperation with other countries and international organisations such as the WHO (3.03 out of 5). Spain, with 748 respondents, obtained an average score of 44.68. The highest-rated item was relative to the government's cooperation with other countries and international organisations such as the WHO (3.46 on a 1 to 5 scale), while the lowest-rated item was access to free and reliable COVID-19 testing in case of symptoms (2.09). In all countries, questions about protection and assistance to vulnerable groups and help in meeting daily needs for income, food and shelter rated poorly, which underscores the need to give particular attention to the most vulnerable. Provision of mental health services was the lowest-rated item across all countries. "This tool is easy to implement and can guide researchers and authorities in designing measures to better control the pandemic," says El-Mohandes. In addition, it can be done at different moments to assess the response as the pandemic evolves. Average Score by Country China 80.48 South Korea 74.54 South Africa 64.62 India 63.88 Germany 61.32 Canada 61.00 Singapore 57.55 Italy 51.71 United States 50.57 France 49.20 Russia 48.85 United Kingdom 48.66 Mexico 46.48 Nigeria 46.32 Spain 44.68 Sweden 42.07 Poland 41.28 Brazil 36.35 Ecuador 35.76 More information: Lazarus J, Ratzan S, Palayew A, Billari FC, Binagwaho A, Kimbali S, Larson HJ, Melegaro A, Rabin K, White TM, El-Mohandes A. COVID-SCORE: A global survey to assess public perceptions of government responses to COVID-19 (COVID-SCORE-10) . PLOS ONE. October 2020 Journal information: PLoS ONE Lazarus J, Ratzan S, Palayew A, Billari FC, Binagwaho A, Kimbali S, Larson HJ, Melegaro A, Rabin K, White TM, El-Mohandes A. COVID-SCORE: A global survey to assess public perceptions of government responses to COVID-19 (COVID-SCORE-10) .. October 2020 journals.plos.org/plosone/arti journal.pone.0240011 Provided by CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy DENTON, Texas: A Texas man who was seen on video punching another man as they argued over President Donald Trump has turned himself in after police obtained a warrant for assault, authorities said. Jason Lata, 44, was booked in the Denton City Jail late Saturday and released a few hours later after posting bond, the Denton Record-Chronicle reported. The scuffle earlier Saturday outside of a convenience store was captured on video, which showed a man in a hat yelling profanities at another man and screaming Turn it off! as an anti-Trump rap song by YG appeared to be playing in the background. The suspect, identified by police as Lata, was standing with other men who were wearing Trump T-shirts. Hes seen on video punching the victim in the face. Police said the victim suffered a cut below the eyebrow and a broken tooth. It wasnt clear whether Lata had an attorney who could speak on his behalf. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor - Bawumia has expressed a lot of hope in Ghana being a destination for most countries looking forward to purchase affordable vehicles - He said it would his would help boost the Ghanaian economy - Ghanaians have shared their thoughts and sentiments on the statements made by Dr. Bawumia Trending topics on the go: How we write news at YEN.com.gh The Vice president, Dr Mahamadu Bawumia has expressed a lot of hope in Ghana being a destination for most countries looking forward to purchase affordable vehicles. According to him, this would help boost the Ghanaian economy due to the circulation of cash in the system. He further reiterated that the government will under no circumstance legalise the operation of commercial motorbike also known as okada. He made this known when he paid a courtesy call on the Regent of Ashiaman, Nii Annan Ajor at his palace on Thursday, October 1, 2020. VW and BlackIvy signed an MoU to embark on the production of affordable homes and affordable cars for the Ghanaian people, he said Ghana would soon become the Dubai of West Africa. In a native post created by YEN.com.gh, Ghanaians have shared their thoughts and sentiments on the statements made by Dr. Bawumia. Evans said he doesn't know Ghana. Torgbui said he is not ashamed. Okrah believes Bawumia needs deliverance. Kofi said Bawumia needs to be reminded that Dubai. In other news, former president John Mahama, also the leader and flagbearer of the NDC, has promised to eradicate the existing double-track system of the free SHS policy. He said he will do this in a year of Ghanaians vote him and the NDC in the coming December elections. Mahama said he will also include private senior high schools in the policy for them also to benefit. He was said to be addressing a durbar of chiefs and farmers in the Asunafo North district of the Ahafo Region, where he had embarked on a tour. Mahama also promised the people that he has always stood for free quality senior high school education, therefore, claims by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) that he would abolish it when elected is not true. Ghanaian multi-instrumentalist Dela Jackson has charged the youth in Africa to wake up | #Yencomgh YEN is building a platform where Ghanaians can share local news and own experiences with each other. Witnessing an incident? Want to tell about a local problem? Know someone who is extremely talented and needs recognition? Your stories and photos are always welcome. Send us a message via Instagram or on YENs official Facebook page. Source: YEN.com.gh Your household may have grown during the coronavirus pandemic as adult children who lost their jobs returned home. At the same time, your wallet may have become thinner during the economic fallout caused by the global health crisis. Combine those factors and its easy to see that a study by the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) found that people want to improve their kitchen, especially with germ-avoiding, touchless technology, while adhering to a tight budget. An overwhelming 99% of manufacturing, construction, design and retail businesses surveyed by the trade association said more consumers are requesting assistance with small-scale, DIY kitchen projects. To reduce the risk of getting COVID-19, the survey found, people want contact-less products with automatic sensors and antimicrobial surfaces as well as outdoor kitchens, where they can safely entertain while social distancing. The pandemic also made people aware of the need to prepare for an emergency and store provisions. Improved water and air filtration systems are also part of the plan to hunker down safely at home. Were breathing this air all day now and were wondering, Whats in it? says Barbara Miller, design director for the Neil Kelly design and remodeling company. Smarter storage In any size home, people are placing even more value on storage space and pantries to keep surplus food and water. Its not easy to add cabinets, let alone counters, a sink and electrical outlets, to whats considered the busiest and most complex room in any house. Experts are available to advise you at all levels. A design consultation is free at Home Depot, either in the store or virtually. If you havent thought about upgrading a kitchen in a while, this is an easy way to be introduced to new materials and approaches. The National Kitchen & Bath Association maintains a directory of 14,000 of its members. You can ask for the policy on a complimentary meeting to discuss a potential project. Home design and product experts with Neil Kelly will offer ideas and advice during a kitchen design and remodeling webinar starting online at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 10. Register for the free event at neilkelly.com/events. For small jobs, TaskRabbit can connect you to people skilled to help with cleaning, furniture assembly and home repairs. 3 MasterBrand Cabinets storage solutions Stephanie Pierce, director of design and trends at MasterBrand Cabinets, offers these five tips to not overspend in the kitchen: Before starting a remodel, take stock of your current space. Capture before pictures and think about the objective of your project. Create a checklist with your priorities including storage and organization, appearance and layout. Avoid unexpected expenses by setting a budget for individual items rather than just the total project. Allocate an amount to spend on the big items like cabinets, countertops and labor, but dont forget about the hardware, lighting and a percentage held for miscellaneous expenses. Finally, before beginning, its important to talk to a design expert, whether at a showroom or virtually. Discussing plans and designs with an experienced professional is crucial to ensure that no important details are left out of the process. A kitchen banquette designed by Samantha Gluck Interiors and Salt Coastal Interiors is part of a remodel of a 1980s tract home into one thats modern, casual and family-friendly. (Alison Bernier/Courtesy of California Art Advisory)Alison Bernier A special place to gather Everyone ends up in the kitchen. Instead of hovering around an island, people are installing built-in seating to settle in long after dishes have been cleared. A kitchen banquette designed by Samantha Gluck Interiors and Salt Coastal Interiors is part of a remodel of a 1980s tract home into one thats modern, casual and family-friendly. Here are the decor sources for the corner banquette: Lippa 47-inch square, white dining table from LexMod.com ($558.75, regularly $1,239 plus free shipping). Midcentury modern molded chair at Overstock.com (various colors and prices). Swing arm black sconce (15 inches high by 39 inches long by 10 inches wide) at France & Son ($215, regularly $340, receive 10% your first order). Vitrine art from Davis & Cline Gallery in Ashland (now closed). 27-inch-long teak trough ($37.61) from Uma Enterprises available from Houzz. Woven wool and leather pillows: Overstock has hundreds of types of pillows on sale with an extra 10% off. Small kitchen upgrades A small change can make a big impact in a kitchen. But before you bring something home, consider its purpose: One-function items like a crab and lobster tool set or a smoking cloche for a steamy reveal may be trendy and tempting, but they take up space and are typically forgotten if they are only useful once a year. Here are practical ideas to add everyday ease and style to a kitchen: Bed, Bath & Beyond is having a sale on cabinet organizers, cookware, knives and dining sets. Receive 20% off by signing up for emails. Bloomingdales Home has Nespresso products, All-Clad stainless steel cookware and Le Creuset pots on sale. Use the code FRIENDS to take up to 25% off select items. Build with Ferguson lets you save up to 30% on select kitchen products like faucets, sinks, appliances, water filtration, cabinet hardware, lighting, range hoods and storage through Oct. 31. Receive 5% off your second order. Cost Plus World Market, which offers artisan goods and handicrafts, has kitchen islands, tables, towels, carts, rugs and chairs in a variety of colors and styles. Food52, a shop for kitchen, cooking and home products, has Five Twos everyday soft cotton napkins ($30-$45 for six) and other hard-to-find items. Frontgate, which offers free phone time with salespeople with design experience, is having a sale up to 20% off tabletop and entertaining items plus free shipping on dining tables and chairs. Bar and counter stools are on clearance. Hammacher Schlemmer has a unique, 4-inch-wide pullout pantry for a tight space ($129.95). Save $10 on your next purchase over $99 when you sign up for emails. Houzz, an online source with 20 million interior design photos as well as home decor and decorating ideas and links to home professionals, also sells kitchen fixtures like sinks, faucets, pot fillers, hot water dispensers, water filtration systems and garbage disposals. Lowes maintains an online list of appliance rebates (there are up to $4,456 in rebates available now for GE appliances). Visit energytrust.org for no-cost and low-cost energy-saving tips plus more information on available cash incentives. Some Oregon cities offer debates on energy-efficient improvements, from windows to cooling. MasterBrand has a Decora Power Pod, a freestanding tower with three electrical sockets and two USB ports. The company also makes secure drawers with a self-locking mechanism by the Master Lock Company and a handy, under-cabinet tablet holder. Simple Human, which designs and manufactures kitchen, bath and beauty tools, is best known for hands-free trash cans that open with the tap of a foot. A 46-liter can with trash and recycle compartments is $150. Sur La Table has an anniversary sale with cookware, bakeware, kitchen tools, knives, coffee and teal, and dining items up to 40% off. Take $15 off your first order. Uncommongoods offers unique kitchen gifts like personalized family mugs (starting at $30), a swivel cheese and tapas board ($80) and a gourmet oil dipping spice kit ($39). Janet Eastman | 503-294-4072 jeastman@oregonian.com | @janeteastman General Secretary of the largest opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) is making a wild allegation about governments plot to turn the Volta region into a war zone ahead of the December 7 polls. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, who was speaking on NEAT FMs morning show 'Ghana Montie', Monday, October 5, 2020, said he has first-hand information about governments plot to terrorize Voltarians. He told host, Mac Jerry Osei-Agyemang that he has concrete evidence of distribution of weapons by government to some vigilante groups. General Mosquito, as affectionately called in politics, also hinted of a government plot to clad some vigilante groups in military uniform as a disguise to ease their operations on election day. They [NPP] will clad some vigilante groups with military uniforms to terrify Voltarians on the elections day. I have the list of all guns with registered numbers given to groups, he made a wild allegation. According to him, the brouhaha about the secessionist group is a plot by the NPP. They should know we are aware, if we dont speak against it, NPP will destroy this country like the way they killed Yaa-Naa, that is their game plan, he said. Watch Video Below Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The fall harvest has begun, and that means more slow-moving tractors are rolling around on Niagaras roadways. Both drivers and farm machinery operators have a role in making this years harvest a safe one. Lee Alderson of the Ministry of Transportation pointed out that most tractors and combines marked with an orange and red triangle emblem on the rear have a maximum speed of 40 km/h, but travel slower when towing. Drivers can pass farm machinery where legally allowed and safe to do so, but should exercise patience. When passing, drivers should leave plenty of space and make eye contact with the machinery operator. Farm machinery moves quite slowly compared to other road users and they often turn directly into fields rather than roads or lanes, or move from lane to lane. Much like large trucks or buses, farm vehicles often require a large amount of room to make right or left turns. If one of these vehicles moves to the right or left, they may be preparing to make a turn rather than allowing space for you to pass, Alderson noted. According to a Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) Toolbox Talk publication, The left-turn collision is the most common type of farm machinery collisions on public roads. It happens when the farm vehicle is about to make a left turn; meanwhile, the motorist behind the farm vehicle decides to pass. Recommendations for machine operators are: stay visible with working lights, frequently shoulder-check and make eye contact with drivers, signal intentions to move positions, occupy the full lane (dont straddle the shoulder), use pilot vehicles when transporting large equipment and change travel times or routes to avoid peak traffic. As farm machine operators often harvest late into the night in the race against weather, rushing and fatigue can also be a contributing factors to injuries, said Robert Gobeil, a CASA agricultural health and safety specialist, in an email. He advised planning ahead to manage fatigue and to have an emergency plan in place in the event of an incident. Of the 843 agriculture-related deaths in Canada between 2003 and 2012, incidents between farm machinery and vehicle traffic accounted for 59 deaths, making the incidents one of the top five causes of agriculture-related death in Canada, according to a 2016 report from the Canadian Agricultural Injury Reporting project of CASA. Using data from coroner reports, only fatalities are tracked, not injuries. The same report revealed that over that 23-year period, collisions between vehicles and farm machinery actually increased by an average of 2.8 per cent. The Ontario Road Safety Annual Report from the provinces Ministry of Transportation (MTO) provides information for farm-vehicle road incidents from 2013 to 2017. During those years, farm vehicles were involved in an average of four fatal, 54 injury, and 180 property damage-only collisions per year, Alderson said. Chris Ryder and his wife Genny at the launch of his book The Fateful Split Tributes have been paid to former Belfast Telegraph journalist and author Chris Ryder, who has died aged 73. It's understood he had been ill for some time, and was being cared for in the Northern Ireland Hospice. In a long and distinguished career, Mr Ryder had also worked for national UK titles, including the Sunday Times and the Daily Telegraph. His wife Genny broke the news on social media. Posting on her husband's Twitter account, she wrote: "I'm sad to tell you Chris died last night, peacefully and pain free after a short illness. "He was looked after with exemplary care at the NI Hospice. Cremation will be private." Mr Ryder lived in Carryduff and was the author of books on the RUC, the UDR and the NI Prison Service. Senior journalists paid tribute to their former colleague. Former Press Association Ireland Editor Deric Henderson told the Belfast Telegraph: "Chris was a great journalist. "He was here from the start of the Troubles. "He was very diligent, very well-regarded - a good old-fashioned hack, always on the lookout for a story. "Chris was old school - a Fleet Street man to his fingertips." Belfast Telegraph Editor-at-Large Gail Walker paid tribute, saying: "Northern Ireland has lost one of its finest journalists. "Even when ill, Chris wrote important, courageous and sparkling copy for the Belfast Telegraph." Columnist Malachi O'Doherty said he had been saddened by news of Mr Ryder's death. "I worked alongside Chris in 1972, first when he would bring a barrel of beer from the Ulster Brewery to our staff party at the Sunday News, and later when he was freelancing," Mr O'Doherty recalled. UTV political editor Ken Reid described Mr Ryder as a "major figure in Irish journalism" while Nicholas Watt, political editor of BBC Newsnight, said: "Chris Ryder was one of Northern Ireland's most remarkable journalists with an exceptional understanding of politics and security. "Chris was very generous with his time when I pitched up at the age of 26 towards the end of the Troubles." Victims campaigner Ann Travers said: "Chris was an absolute gent, and so wise. "He showed kindness to me at a time when I found life very tough." The late newsman, who served as a member of the Police Authority between 1994 and 1996, wrote several books on the history of the security forces in Northern Ireland, including The RUC 1922-2000: A Force Under Fire, as well as The Fateful Split: Catholics and the Royal Ulster Constabulary. Mr Ryder also penned The Ulster Defence Regiment: An Instrument of Peace, and - with another former Belfast Telegraph journalist, Vincent Kearney - wrote Drumcree: the Orange Order's Last Stand. Mr Kearney said Chris Ryder was "fantastic company" and "would be very sadly missed". BETHLEHEM, Pa. Republican U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey will not seek re-election in 2022 and plans to leave public service, he confirmed, a surprise move for the fiercely anti-tax and anti-regulation lawmaker who had been seen as the favorite to be the partys nominee for governor in two years. Toomeys decision will force Pennsylvania Republicans to look elsewhere for candidates for both seats in a politically divided state where both parties have shown they can win statewide races. At a news conference near his home in suburban Allentown, Toomey said he will serve out the final two years of his second term, and after that my plan is to go back to the private sector. I always thought that Id probably serve just two terms and often mentioned that along the way, Toomey said at the news conference at the studios of WVLT-TV, standing with his wife and three children, the youngest of whom is 10. Toomey called his reasons personal, not political, and that 18 years in public office including six years in the U.S. House from 1999 through 2004 is a long time and had demanded sacrifices from his family. Toomey had long expressed an interest in running for governor, and he drew calls on a daily basis from people who he said wanted to help him run for governor or for re-election to the Senate. Once his mind was made up, he said, he felt he should be candid about it. Im looking forward to more time back at home, he said. Toomey is a stalwart proponent of free markets and smaller government who was staunchly supported in the past by the billionaire industrialists Charles and David Koch and the Club for Growth, the take-no-prisoners free-markets advocacy group Toomey once led. Toomey said he still hopes to become chairman of the Senate Banking Committee. But Toomey had often expressed frustration with how the Senate operates and had never promised to run for a third term. Still, the news of his plans that broke Sunday has reshuffled the deck for Republicans looking ahead to the two major statewide races in two years. As Pennsylvanias only statewide elected Republican official outside of the courts, Toomey had been widely considered the favorite to be the gubernatorial nominee if he wanted it in 2022, when Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf is term-limited. With both offices open in 2022, Democrats have a bench of prospects who have won statewide races Lt. Gov. John Fetterman, state Attorney General Josh Shapiro and state Treasurer Joe Torsella and a statewide voter registration advantage over Republicans. Republicans, meanwhile, are left without any natural heir or obvious front-runner for either governor or U.S. Senate. They have nine members of the U.S. House as do Democrats and they have a couple of big-city U.S. attorneys, Scott Brady and William McSwain, who are believed to be politically ambitious. Two of the last three Republican governors Dick Thornburgh and Tom Corbett served as the U.S. attorney in Pittsburgh before they won a governors race. Among those Republicans expressing interest in running for governor, either privately or publicly, is freshman U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, who also served as revenue secretary under former Gov. Tom Corbett. Its something thats of sincere interest, said Meuser, who hails from northeastern Pennsylvanias Luzerne County and, with a portion of his district viewed as swing territory in the presidential election, is a regular at appearances by President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence. The last time anything similar happened was in 2010, when then-Gov. Ed Rendell was term-limited and then-U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter switched parties to become a Democrat in his re-election bid. He was beaten in the primary. The advantage is likely to go to the party that loses Novembers presidential elections. In midterm elections, the party of the president tends to lose seats in Congress. Pat Toomey and Scott Perry U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey, left, and Congressman Scott Perry said they expect another pandemic-related relief package from Congress. They spoke at Sen. Pat Toomey Sen. Pat Toomey talks during a visit to The Sentinel office in March 2019. Toomey Roundtable U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., speaks to local business leaders Tuesday during a roundtable discussion about economic development at Desperate T Toomey Roundtable Local business leaders listen to U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., speak Tuesday during a roundtable discussion at Desperate Times Brewery in Carlisle. Love 1 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 Leading North America pallet systems provider to be acquired by global investment firm focused on essential infrastructure and UK's largest private pension fund PECO Pallet, Inc., one of North America's largest providers of pooled rental pallets and services to the food service, grocery and consumer products industries, announced that a definitive agreement has been reached for PECO to be acquired by U.S.-based Alinda Capital Partners and USS, a leading pension fund for the Higher Education sector in the United Kingdom. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201005005784/en/ The transaction is expected to be concluded within the next two weeks. Details of the transaction were not disclosed. Alinda is a global independent investment firm focused on mid-market infrastructure assets that provide essential services. Alinda has holdings in infrastructure businesses in 38 of the 50 United States, as well as in Canada, the United Kingdom and continental Europe. Alinda-owned businesses serve over 100 million customers annually. USS is the largest private pension fund in the United Kingdom with 75 billion under management (as of August 2020). It has over 400,000 individual members working at more than 340 higher education institutions. It also invests extensively in infrastructure such as ports, utilities, and green energy. "Alinda and USS are among the world's most successful investors in infrastructure businesses which provide the foundation for economic growth," said Joe Dagnese, president and chief executive officer of privately-held PECO Pallet. "They support our strategy of growing with customers that value the quality and service PECO delivers." "We are pleased to be associated with PECO," said Alinda Chairman Chris Beale. "We believe that PECO is a robust business led by an exceptional management team." "PECO is an excellent fit with USS's investment philosophy of acquiring resilient businesses with a track record of sustainable growth and cashflow generation to help USS deliver a secure financial future for our members. We look forward to working with the management team and continuing our successful partnership with Alinda," said Michael Powell, Head of Private Markets Group for USS. Dagnese noted that PECO's current management and operations team will continue to lead the organization under its new ownership. He added that the acquisition will benefit PECO's employees, suppliers, partners, distributors, and customers through access to Alinda's and USS's resources and their proven strategies of helping essential infrastructure businesses grow profitably in their markets. Alinda and USS have significant experience in transportation and logistics, including infrastructure to handle and store freight and supply chain operations. PECO currently operates a North American pallet pool network encompassing more than 80 facilities and 21 million pallets. The company builds, services, delivers, and manages distribution of its red, high-quality block pallets for America's top consumer products, grocery, and other food-related enterprises to ship goods. About PECO Pallet, Inc. -Irvington, NY-based PECO Pallet is the North American leader in pallet rental services and provides millions of its red block pallets to major grocery and consumer goods manufacturers in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. PECO Pallet's tremendous growth over the last decade reflects the company's commitment to quality and service. Customers using PECO's superior pallets experience less product damage, greater efficiency, improved safety, and significant cost savings. PECO is headquartered in Irvington, New York. For more information about PECO Pallet, please visit www.pecopallet.com. About Alinda Capital Partners Alinda Capital Partners is a global investment firm that makes long-term investments in infrastructure assets that provide essential services. Alinda's investment partners are predominantly pension funds serving public sector and private sector workers and seeking steady investments over the long term to match their pension liabilities. They include some of the largest institutional investors in the world. Alinda has offices in Greenwich (Connecticut), Miami and London. See www.alinda.com. About Universities Superannuation Scheme - Universities Superannuation Scheme was established in 1975 as the principal pension scheme for universities and other higher education institutions in the U.K. The scheme's trustee is Universities Superannuation Scheme Limited, a corporate trustee which provides scheme management and trusteeship from its offices based in Liverpool and London in the U.K. The trustee company delegates implementation of its investment strategy to a wholly-owned investment management subsidiary company USS Investment Management Limited which provides in-house investment management and advisory services. For more information on Universities Superannuation Scheme, please go to www.uss.co.uk. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201005005784/en/ Contacts: Gary Frantz (925) 594-1434 gary@gnfcomms.com Hathras/Lucknow: Ink was thrown at Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh in Hathras on Monday when he was returning after meeting the family of a Dalit woman who died recently after allegedly being gangraped. Singh was speaking to reporters when a man threw ink on his white kurta and shouted "PFI dalal wapas jao". The incident was captured by the electronic media. The footage showed that the man continued to shout slogans, despite being overpowered by AAP workers and police, who were deployed in strength near the residence of the 19-year-old alleged gangrape victim. Singh left the spot in his vehicle immediately after the incident. The Popular Front of India (PFI), an alleged radical group, has been accused of funding certain protests against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) that took place across the country earlier this year. The Uttar Pradesh police had earlier sought a ban on the organisation. Live TV Talking to PTI over the phone, Singh alleged that a man named Dipak Sharma threw ink at him in the presence of police personnel and described it as "the most cowardly act". He added that AAP MLAs and office-bearers were there with him at the time of the incident. In a tweet, the MP tagged a photo in which Sharma is seen standing with ADG, Law and Order Prashant Kumar and said, "Is there anything else to understand? This is the accused who attacked. Along with him is ADG, Law and Order Prashant Kumar. We were in police security. Yogiji, do not hide your deeds behind the black ink. Fire from the front." He said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath can get cases lodged against him, send him to jail, get him beaten up or even killed, but this fight for justice for the "Hathras ki beti" will continue. Singh is among the several political leaders who have visited Hathras to meet the family members of the 19-year-old Dalit woman, who died in a Delhi hospital on September 29 after allegedly being raped by four upper-caste men. Reacting to Monday's incident, Delhi Chief Minister and AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal said in a tweet in Hindi: "Sanjay ji, you have been speaking fearlessly against the injustice and atrocities of the Uttar Pradesh government. They lodged 14 FIRs against you, sealed your office, but did not dare to arrest you, so they got you attacked today. This shows the defeat and disgrace of those in the Uttar Pradesh government. It means you are on the right track." The accused was held soon after the incident, the Hathras police said. In a statement, the police said Singh had come to meet the Dalit woman's family in Bool Garhi village. Later, during a press conference, a young man threw ink at him. The accused was immediately taken into custody and legal proceedings are underway, they added. The final fuel tanker in a series of Iranian ships has reached Venezuela. The safe arrival of the fuel is a success for Iran and its South American ally amid continued pressure from the United States. The Iran-flagged tanker Faxon docked in Venezuelas Puerto La Cruz port on Sunday, according to data from the Marine Traffic website. Earlier last week, two other Iranian fuel tankers reached Venezuela. Together, the three tankers brought more than 800,000 barrels of fuel to the country. Venezuela is suffering from gasoline shortages. Though it has a wealth of oil reserves and is a member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, Venezuelas oil refining industry, which turns oil into usable materials such as gasoline, has fallen into disarray, in part due to underinvestment and lack of maintenance. Harsh US sanctions prevent Venezuela, which has a socialist government that Washington opposes, from importing fuel from many countries. Iran must also contend with US pressure and sanctions when selling its fuel internationally. As a result, the Islamic Republic has stepped up to meet Venezuelas energy needs and the two have developed a strong political and economic relationship. The tankers delivery shows Iran is still able to conclude fuel deals with Venezuela. In August, the United States seized a group ships for allegedly bringing Iranian fuel to the country. The owners of the tankers challenged the move in court but did not complete their shipment. Faxon and the other two tankers arrived without US interference this time. BELLEVILLE More than $87,000 will be shared by 88 Illinois fire departments through Illinois American Waters 2020 Firefighter Grant Program. Since the program was created in 2010, over 680 grants totaling over $668,000 have been awarded to fire and emergency organizations across Illinois. We know how important water is in protecting homes and businesses. We also understand the impact of the pandemic on our first responders. This is why we approved every grant we received in full this year, supporting our local heroes in a meaningful way, said Justin Ladner, Illinois American Water President. Some of the departments will use the grant funds for pandemic-related needs, while others will allocate the funds for communication tools, extraction equipment, training resources, and more. Ed Honowitz/Getty By Amy Dacey, The Conversation With the U.S. presidential election rapidly approaching at a time of extraordinary political and social disruption, the possibility of an unclear or contested result is coming under scrutiny. Unlike many other countries, where the president or prime minister is chosen by direct popular vote, in the U.S., a candidate may win the popular vote and still not be elected to the nations highest office. The U.S. also differs from most other democracies in that it has no independent electoral commission to certify the final vote count. So who actually confirms the winner? Step #1: Before Election Day American democracy has many elected officialsstate, local and nationaland many processes for getting into office. I have been working on election campaigns since I was 8 years old, when my dad ran for school board and I went door to door asking people to vote for him. Ive also worked on local, congressional, senate and presidential races and now direct an academic research center on politics. Whats striking is that every race is different, from deadlines and filing process to certification. Here, Ill focus here on the presidential race. The unusual and complicated presidential election certification process in the U.S. entwines all 50 states and the District of Columbia, the Senate, House of Representatives, the National Archives and the Office of the Federal Register. It also involves the Electoral Collegea uniquely American institution that convenes in 51 separate locations once every four years to pick the president. This four-month process was custom designed as a compromise by the Founding Fathers, who did not believe the American people should directly choose the president and vice president but did not want to give Congress the power of selection, either. What if Trump Wont Leave the White House? The Constitution declares that American presidential elections occur on the first Tuesday in November, every four years. But the federal election process actually begins in October, when the Archivist of the United Statesa presidential appointee responsible for maintaining the governments most important official documentssends a letter to the governor of each state. Story continues The document outlines their responsibilities regarding the Electoral College, which is not a place but a process by which electorspeople who are chosen by their partyvote for their partys presidential candidate. The machinery of the Electoral College is complicated, but in short Americans vote for electors and the electors vote for the president. Then, the winner is Step #2: After Election Day Not quite. Once a final tally of voters in-person, mail-in and provisional ballots has been concluded, all 50 governors prepare their states Certificate of Ascertainment, a document listing their electors for the competing candidates. Each state completes that process at its own rate. This year, because of the pandemic, finalizing the electoral vote count will likely take a lot longer. Once completed, copies of the Certificate of Ascertainment are then submitted to the U.S. Archivist. After the governor submits names to the Archivist, each states Electoral College electors meet in the state capitalD.C.s meet in D.C. to formally cast their votes for president and vice president on the first Monday after the second Wednesday in December. This year, thats Dec. 14, 2020. In ways that vary state by state, each states electors then prepares six Certificates of Vote, which are sent by registered mail to the President of the U.S. Senate and the Archivist of the United States. The remaining four certificates are sent to state officials. That fulfills the Electoral Colleges duties until the next presidential election. Step #3: Congress meets On Jan. 6, Congress convenes to count the electoral votes and certify the winner of the election. Because the sitting vice president also serves as president of the Senate, Mike Pence will preside over this count in 2021, just as Vice President Joe Biden did in January 2017 when Donald Trump officially became president-elect. Each state, called upon in alphabetical order, files its votes. This process is in some respects ceremonial, because by January the media has declared a winner and usually a concession speech has been given. But, officially, it is the moment of truth. The Time Has Come: Reform the Electoral College Now At the end of the Senates electoral vote count, the vice president announces the results and asks if there are any objections. In 2001 Democratic House representatives tried for 20 minutes to block Floridas highly contested electoral votes for George W. Bush. That effort failed, because objections must be signed by both a member of the House and the Senate before being voted on by both chambers of Congress. It fell to Vice President Al Gore, as president of the Senate, to declare Bushhis Republican opponentthe winner of the 2000 election. After the Senate certifies the election results, all the Certificates of Ascertainment and Certificates of Vote then become available for public review at the Office of the Federal Registrar for one year, then transferred to the National Archives for the permanent record. Those who question the outcome of a U.S. election, in other words, can actually double-check the tabulations themselves. In the extraordinary event that no candidate wins in the Electoral College, the House of Representatives meets to elect the next president. This is how John Quincy Adams became president in 1824. Established almost 250 years ago, this complex process is a foundation of American democracy. Many have questioned whether this antiquated system truly represents the will of the people in modern America. But for 2020, it remains the process that will decide the presidential race. Amy Dacey is executive director of the Sine Institute of Policy and Politics, American University Read more at The Daily Beast. Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now! Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 01:07:16|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BISHKEK, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- A protest against the results of the parliamentary elections on Monday in Kyrgyzstan's capital brought to clashes between security officials and protesters, with at least 16 injured. The protest began on the central square of Bishkek on Monday at about 12 a.m. local time (0600 GMT). The participants of the action - the leaders of the losing parties - called on the authorities to annul the voting results in the parliamentary elections. Toward evening, some protesters moved to the Parliament building, which is near the square, and tried to break through the fence. And then police officers began to disperse the crowd by using tear gas, stun grenades, rubber bullets and water cannon. According to the Ministry of Health of the country, at the moment 16 people had various injures, including two police officers and parliament member Zhanar Akayev. Security forces have cleared the area and are driving the protesters out of the city center. The parliamentary elections in Kyrgyzstan was held on Sunday, with 1,957 candidates from 16 political parties competing for 120 parliamentary seats. According to preliminary results from the Central Election Commission (CEC), four parties have surpassed the 7 percent threshold to receive seats in the country's parliament. Enditem Srinagar, Oct 5 : Two CRPF men were killed and three others injured on Monday in a terror attack at Kandizal near Pampore in south Kashmir's Pulwama district which, a senior police officer said, was carried out by Lashkar-e-Taiba. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Vijay Kumar said two motorcycle-borne terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on a CRPF Road Opening Party (ROP), leading to casualties. "The LeT ultras fired indiscriminately at the Central Reserve Police Force ROP with an AK-47 rifle. Though the security personnel retaliated, the terrorists managed to escape." He said one of the two attackers was identified as Saifullah, a Pakistani national, whereas the other is a local person. "Earlier Saifullah was responsible for a terror attack at Chadoora in which one Assistant Sub-Inspector (was killed," he said. Hunt is on to neutralise the terrorists. He said that the National Highway was vulnerable to terrorist attacks but security forces were maintaining restraint to avoid civilian casualties. A missile attack is being carried out on Stepanakert [the capital of Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh)]; Smerch, Polonez, Turkish Kasirga, similar long-range means are used. Artsrun Hovhannisyan, a representative of the Ministry of Defense of Armenia, told this to a briefing Monday morning. Asked whether it was possible to silence those firing points by the example of Ganja airport, Hovhannisyan noted that they were silenced as much as possible, but we must take into account that the adversary's means and forces are quite large, and sometimes several times more than the Armenian side. As for the fact that the Minister of Defense of Azerbaijan Zakir Hasanov seems to have gone underground, Hovhannisyan said: "I do not think that Zakir Hasanov has much to boast about so that he would not remain underground." The representative of Armenias MOD added that a fierce and intense war was in progress. On September 27, the Azerbaijani armed forces launched a large-scale attack against Artsakh, targeting its civilian population, too. As of October 4, the Artsakh Defense Army has destroyed the adversarys 14 combat helicopters, 17 warplanes, 124 drones, 368 units of armored vehiclesmainly tanks, 82 vehicles, and 10 armored personnel carriersone TOS-1A heavy artillery system, 4 Smerch and 1 Uragan rocket launcher systems. The adversary has over 3,145 casualties, more than 5,270 wounded. From the Armenian side, according to preliminary data, there are 209 casualties and more than 200 wounded. The Azerbaijani army also targeted the military and civilian infrastructure of Artsakh and Armenia, as a result of which 2 civilians were killed in Gegharkunik Province of Armenia and 14in Artsakh. A female farmer has been sexually assaulted and strangled to death while another rural worker has been tortured and murdered in the latest attacks on South Africa's white farmers. Divorcee Chantel Kershaw, 44, was ambushed by two armed black men while working her land in Delmas east of Johannesburg on Wednesday. Kershaw's underwear was ripped off and stuffed into her mouth and she was strangled to death inside her garage. In a separate incident, 21-year-old farm manager Brendin Horner was brutally tortured on Friday and discovered dead the next day, covered in blood and tied to a post in Paul Roux, Free State province. Divorcee Chantel Kershaw, 44, (left and right) was ambushed by two armed black men while working her land in Delmas east of Johannesburg on Wednesday In a separate incident, 21-year-old farm manager Brendin Horner (pictured) was brutally tortured on Friday and discovered the next day covered in blood and tied to a post in Paul Roux, Free State province The two horrific attacks were 180 miles apart on remote farmland THIS YEAR'S BRUTAL MURDERS OF WHITE PEOPLE IN S. AFRICA WOMAN AND HER ELDERLY PARENTS ARE KIDNAPPED AND MURDERED Daniel Brand, 82, his wife Hybrecht, 73, and their daughter Elizabeth, 53, were kidnapped and driven away in their own cars from their rural home near Hartswater in the Northern Province on July 26. Their bodies were found two days later. The home was ransacked, with some cash and jewellery stolen. BRITISH FALKLANDS HERO SHOT DEAD WHILE PROTECTING PARTNER British Falklands War hero was shot dead while protecting his partner during an armed raid on their farm near Lanseria. Former Royal Navy sailor Julian Stobbs, 59, was shot in the head and chest after four robbers broke into his home as he slept on July 3. RESTAURANT OWNER HACKED TO PIECES WITH MACHETE Eduard Neumeister, 67, who was born in Austria, was hit with 'dozens of blows' from a bush knife at his property in Balgowan, 70 miles outside Durban in June. The frenzied attack happened as Eduard - known locally as Edi - went to feed his dogs and prepare for breakfast at the Bratwurst Sausage Restaurant and B&B that he ran with partner Margit Riebler, 62. Advertisement The two horrific attacks were 180 miles apart and carried out by ruthless killers where the nation's white farmers live in constant fear of rape and murder on their remote homesteads. Kershaw was attacked while helping to a load a lawnmower onto a truck. The men stripped her and then held her down on the floor of the garage at her farm as they strangled her. Her distraught mother Greta Spiers, 65, was bludgeoned over the head with a pistol and she, along with a maid, was restrained as the farm was looted. The two men fled in the family's white Chevrolet station wagon but were chased down by neighbourhood watch farmers who forced the stolen vehicle off the road in a high speed chase. The neighbourhood watch were alerted by Kershaw's mother and captured the suspects who were handed over to police. A farm hand who was stripped and tied up by the raiders was later arrested after the cell phone numbers of the two suspects were found in his phone. The three men appeared before Delmas Magistrates Court charged with armed robbery, theft and murder and were refused bail and have been remanded in custody. Police spokesman Brigadier Leonard Hiathi said: 'Chantel asked an employee to help her load a lawnmower into a truck when she suddenly saw two armed men inside her yard. 'They told the employee to take his clothes off and tied him up and then attacked the woman who was screaming for help and strangled her and then went into the house. 'The victim's mother was assaulted with a firearm and the house was robbed. 'A high speed chase ensued between the suspects and the neighbourhood watch group which resulted in the suspects overturning their vehicles and crawling out to escape. 'But they were caught and handed over to the police who opened a case or robbery and murder and a firearm was recovered and ammunition and a bloodstained jacket'. One of the Kershaw murder suspects is escorted away by police The two attackers fled Kershaw's home in the family's white Chevrolet station wagon but were chased down by neighbourhood watch farmers who forced the stolen vehicle off the road in a high speed chase In the separate incident, Horner was brutally tortured before being stabbed three times and then strangled after being strung up from a pole. The horrific attack happened at the De Rots Farm in Paul Roux in Free State province 180 miles away from the earlier murder and he was said to have gone through an horrific ordeal. Police spokesman Brigadier Montansi Makheli said Brendin failed to arrive home after finishing work and his girlfriend Lenize Taljaard raised the alarm. His body was found by his father Robbie and a colleague Jaco Kleingeld at 6am on Saturday. His blood soaked body had been slashed multiple times and a knife was found near to the pole he was strung up against. Two men have been arrested and charged with murder and are due in court tomorrow. Gilly Scheepers who owns the farm where Horner was murdered told TimesLive: 'He was so excited that day, that he was working a year for us, and on that special day he died. His family is taking his death extremely hard.' Agricultural strategist Dr Jaco De Villiers has described the latest murder as part of a 'war against food production' in the country and said that his murder was 'slaughter'. He told the paper: 'How do you murder someone and hang him on a pole for everyone to see? This was a clear message to all farmers. Farm killings have to stop right now'. Brendin Horner's girlfriend Lenize Taljaard raised the alarm on Friday night after Horner failed to return home Horner in a recent social media photo Dr Jane Buys, safety and risk analyst of Free State Agriculture, told TimesLIVE:'The senseless killings cannot be allowed with the brutality in which they are executed. 'It is not clear what the motive for this murder is. There cannot be any justification for killing a person who provides food security. Something has to be done to stop it'. Pressure group Agri SA said that on average a farm where a farmer is violently attacked will be abandoned for up to five years until someone takes it on and restarts production. They said that means dozens of workers and dependants losing their livelihoods. AfriForum spokesman Marius Muller who speaks for the civil rights group protecting minority groups in South Africa said that the farmers need better police protection. He said: 'This is yet another dark day in the history of South Africa for farmers and those with small holdings and the murder of these two farmers was totally unnecessary. 'These were both premeditated and horrific attacks on innocent farmers who look after and care for their workers and whose jobs may now be put in jeopardy by these murders'. Each day in South Africa an average of 60 people are murdered but although the number of farmers killed averages 75 a year their deaths are horrific and brutal. Their killers often use hot irons, power tools and boiling water to torture their victims and rape the female members in the house before finally murdering their victims. Majority Leader and Member of Parliament for Suame constituency, Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu has called on supporters of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to vote massively for the ruling NPP to retire former President John Dramani Mahama from active politics. He said they can help champion this by ensuring that Ghanaians vote massively against Mr. Mahama, who is also the flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress, in the upcoming polls. Speaking at the launch of the NPPs Bono East Youth Wing campaign in Techiman on Sunday, October 4, 2020, the legislator urged NPP members to ensure that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo gets overwhelming votes on the election day. I told my constituents in the Ashanti Region that, the 2020 elections are double-track elections. Akufo-Addo beat Mahama in the previous elections with a margin of about a million votes. If the margin of victory reduces in this coming election, he [John Mahama] will feel he can come and run again. Let's vote massively and win by two million votes so that even the NDC would have no option but to retire him. That is what we must do. This is why I am saying the election is a double track one. We are voting to win and also to retire John Mahama, he said. The legislator further called on the party supporters to work hard towards the 2020 elections, and maintain a united front. He also urged the NPP members to vote for all NPP parliamentary candidates to ensure NPP maintains a majority in Parliament. If Akufo-Addo wants to do something, it has to be backed by law. If he doesn't have the majority of his people in Parliament, and the NDC boycotts sittings as we have been seeing, it will be very difficult to pass any law. This is why we have to unite and get the majority of our people in Parliament. This will ensure that whatever he [President Akufo-Addo] wants to do for you will be easily achieved. We can do this by being united, Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu added. Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu chaired the NPP Bono East Youth Wing campaign launch which was under the theme Transforming Bono East into our strongholds: The focus of the youth. Henry Nana Boakye, the NPP National Youth Organizer, NPP parliamentary candidates for Atebubu-Amantin, Techiman North, Nkoranza South, among other party executives were also present at the launch. ---citinewsroom Lavrov announced that he and his French and U.S. counterparts are set to issue a joint statement calling for an immediate halt to the continuing hostilities along the Armenian-Azerbaijani line of contact around Karabakh. But we should think not only about statements but also concrete steps that could be taken to stop the bloodshed and put the situation back on the path of negotiations, Russian news agencies quoted him as saying. Lavrov did not say what those steps could be. He said he discussed the issue with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian in a phone call earlier in the day. The U.S., France and Russia co-head the OSCE Minsk Group that has long been trying to broker a peaceful settlement of the Karabakh conflict. In a joint statement issued last week, the presidents of the three mediating countries called for an immediate cessation of hostilities in a joint statement. They also urged Armenia and Azerbaijan to commit without delay to resuming substantive negotiations. Yerevan welcomed the statement, saying it is willing to engage in peace talks mediated by the Minsk Group co-chairs. By contrast, Azerbaijan effectively rejected the mediators appeal. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev was reported to say on Monday that the mediators must give Baku guarantees on the withdrawal of Armenian troops from Azerbaijans occupied territories. Lavrov has repeatedly spoken with his Armenian and Azerbaijani counterparts over the past week. Also, Russian President Vladimir Putin has had three phone conversations with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian since September 27. But he has still not spoken with Azerbaijani Aliyev or Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday that Putin does not yet have clear-cut plans to contact Aliyev or Erdogan. But we are talking about a war, and, of course, the situation in Karabakh is developing rapidly, Peskov told reporters in Moscow. So its hard to make forecasts on this. GBP/USD Exchange Rate Steady as UK Services Sector Shows Steady Improvement despite Covid-19 The Pound to US Dollar (GBP/USD) exchange rate held steady today, with the pairing currently trading around $1.295. The Pound (GBP) is treading water today following a video conference between British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, over the week. However, with a stalemate between the UK and the EU preventing developments toward a post-Brexit trade deal, GBP investors have remained cautious. Mr Johnson also appeared unfazed by the possibility of a hard Brexit, saying that the UK could live with the outcome. He said: We can more than live with it. In UK economic news, today saw the release of the UK Services PMI for September, which beat forecasts and rose to 56.1. Duncan Brock, the Group Director at the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply, commented: Though unable to maintain the highs from the previous month, September saw another steady improvement in trading conditions as reduced pandemic restrictions fuelled an expansion in services activity. There is little expectation that these disruptions will come to an end soon, so many businesses are planning to tick-over until year-end as months of toil and trouble lie ahead. US Dollar (USD) Steadies on News of Trumps Return to Health The US Dollar (USD) shed some of its safe-haven appeal today after reports revealed that US President Donald Trumps health had improved following his Covid-19 diagnosis last week. Jacob Greber, a US correspondent for the Australian Financial Review, commented: Trump may well sail through this without any negative health consequences, which would just prove to his supporters what a resilient 74-year-old he is. But he also may not, tipping America into an unprecedented leadership and constitutional crisis, kicking an already unhinged year into a bottomless [pit]. In US economic data, today will see the release of Septembers US ISM Services PMI. Any improvement in the American services sector could further weigh on safe-haven demand for the Greenback. GBP/USD Outlook: Could Brexit Uncertainty Drag Sterling Down This Week? US Dollar (USD) investors will be awaiting tomorrows speech from the Federal Reserves Chairman Jerome Powell. Any dovishness about Americas economy could further bolster demand for the safe-haven USD. Pound (GBP) traders will be awaiting tomorrows release of the latest UK Construction PMI for September. If this shows any deterioration in the UKs construction sector, then we would see Sterling fall. The GBP/USD exchange rate could fall this week, however, if uncertainty over the UK-EU Brexit situation persists. Any further signs of Downing Street maintaining a relatively neutral stance on a no-deal Brexit would also prove GBP-negative. Reacting to AIIMS Forensic report on Monday, Shiv Sena in its mouthpiece Saamna on Monday sought an apology from politicians and media for maligning the image of Mumbai Police and Maharashtra. A day after the All India Institute of Medical Sciences Forensic Medical Board confirmed that actor Sushant Singh Rajput died by suicide, ruling out the murder angle, the Shiv Sena, in its mouthpiece Saamana, on Monday, sought an apology from the politicians and media, who bark like dogs, for maligning the image of Mumbai Police and Maharashtra. It claimed that the BJP-led Centre and its NDA partner in Bihar, JD(U), used the actors death as a poll plank ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in the eastern state. Truth can never be hidden. This truth has finally come out in the Sushant Singh case those who maligned Maharashtra have been disrobed During this time, the Mumbai Police was defamed, they (opposition and some media houses) raised questions on the investigation. The politicians and media channels who bark like dogs should apologise to Maharashtra, said Shiv Sena in its mouthpiece. Accusing the central government of using the late actors family for political gain in view of the upcoming Bihar Assembly polls, the ruling party in Maharashtra said that within 24 hours of transfer of Sushant Singh Rajputs death probe to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), it was revealed that he consumed drugs. Also Read: Fans cheer with joy as Salman Khan returns on sets of Radhe, see reactions Also Read: Most soothing and comforting place is a film set: Kangana Ranaut on resuming shooting for Thalaivi The central government used Sushants Patna connection for its selfish and lustful politics and transferred the investigation to the CBI with the speed that bypassed the speed of a bullet train. The covert manner, in which the Mumbai Police investigated the case, was only to ensure that no spectacle was created after the death. But when the CBI came to Mumbai and started the investigation, Sushants ganja and charas episode came to light in the first 24 hours. The CBI investigation revealed that Sushant was a characterless and playful artist, it said. The Shiv Sena added that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar raised the issue of the late actors death because they didnt have any other issue to fight the election on, and for that, the states Director General of Police, Gupteshwar Pandey, was used to stage a scene. Nitish Kumar and other leaders there (Bihar) raised the issue because there was no other topic for campaigning in the Bihar elections. For this, Gupteshwar, the Director-General of Police in the state, was made to stage a performance in his uniform, and later he joined Nitish Kumars party, forgoing the same uniform, said the Shiv Sena. The Shiv Sena also questioned actor Kangana Ranaut over her silence on Hathras case. The actress, who used Sushants death, termed Mumbai Pakistan and Babar, in which hole is she hiding now? A young woman was raped and killed in Hathras. The police there insulted the womans dead body and burnt the corpse in the night. On this, the actress did not even shed two tears, not even fake ones. Those who raped that girl, are they brothers and sisters of that actress? Are the policemen, who burnt the girl, domestic servants of the actress, it added. It is to be noted that the vocal actor had called for shooting the rapists publicly on Twitter on the very day the 19-year-old Hathras woman succumbed to her brutal assault injuries in Delhis Safdarjung hospital on September 29. Shoot these rapists publicly, what is the solution to these gang rapes that are growing in numbers every year? What a sad and shameful day for this country. Shame on us we failed our daughters, Kangana, who is busy shooting for an upcoming film down south, had tweeted. Also Read: Kareena Kapoor wishes Soha Ali Khan happy birthday in new Instagram post New Delhi, Oct 5 : The O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) in collaboration with the Education Promotion Society of India (EPSI), NHRD network, Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH) and Manav Rachna Vidyanatariksha organised a leadership colloquium in memory of Padma Shri awardee, late Pritam Singh, former Director of IIM, Lucknow and MDI, Gurgaon. Remembering the life and legacy of Singh, JGU's Founding Vice-Chancellor, C. Raj Kumar, said, "Pritam Singh was not only an erudite academician, but also a great leader and institutional builder. Over the past several years, he has guided the efforts and initiatives of several universities and institutions to achieve academic excellence. His demise has been a huge loss to our nation and to the higher education landscape of India." In relation to the Leadership Colloquium, Professor Kumar said, "Dr. Pritam Singh's life is a celebration of social impact created, particularly through education. He was a true karmayogi who contributed to various aspects of higher education, institution building and nation building. He played an instrumental role in shaping the minds of the leadership of organizations and enabling policies that had a positive impact on our society. Therefore, this colloquium was our humble attempt to pay respect to his legacy by discussing the very importance of social impact through social responsibility of businesses." The colloquium had some very invigorating and intellectual deliberations to envision the future of social responsibility of businesses, and integration of this vision with the contributions and learnings from Pritam Singh's life. Commemorating the life of Pritam Singh, Jyoti Gupta, Emeritus Professor of Finance, ESCP Business School, said that he appreciated Pritam Singh's belief to be able to draw from Indian philosophy, and how it should be integrated within the management schools for creating socially responsible leaders. He said, "When you see his movement, his Directorship at MDI and IIM Lucknow, you see that he has brought in Indian philosophy in the management education." He mentioned that Dr. Singh believed that 'a leader should not be a value extractor, but a value creator'. The evolution of social responsibility, the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the impact of social quotient of an organization on consumers were some important issues addressed during their colloquium. The speakers engaged in multiple facets of social responsibility such as Corporate Social Performance (CSP), Socially Responsible Investment Funds (SRIs), and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Reporting. While discussing about the larger role of social responsibility of business, Shyam Sunder, James Frank Professor of Accounting, Yale School of Management, said, "It must enable all its participants to live with dignity, preserve their health -- that is the large part of environmental externalities, promote their wealth -- material welfare, consider the future not just the present -- that is the idea of sustainability, and consider these factors both individually as well as collectively." Highlighting the importance of ingraining social responsibility in the very ethos and culture of an organization, Suresh Tripathi, Vice president - Human Resource Management Tata Steel Ltd., India said, "If you have it somewhere in the vision itself, and it percolates down, it becomes the DNA of the organization, the thinking is influenced. Everything that you do in terms of business has the impact of this philosophy behind it. Whether you are making a product or doing a service, you'd like to ensure that there is a societal value in it." The colloquium also addressed the vision of organizations for balancing their legal, economic, social and environmental responsibilities, and reimagining the social responsibility of business to extend beyond monetary contributions. Shubhalakshmi Panse, Former Chairperson & Managing Director, Allahabad Bank, India, highlighted some examples of social initiatives and said, "CSR initiative is just not limited to what we are going to spend as far as those two per cent is concerned, but we are also looking at it from a long-term perspective on what is the sea change we are bringing about in the entire community, in the environment, in the mother nature." Prasanta Mazumdar By Express News Service GUWAHATI: Insurgent group National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM) has sought the resumption of Naga peace talks at the Prime Minister level without any pre-condition and in a third country. The outfit expressed its desire for the talks in a letter which its general secretary and key negotiator Thuingaleng Muivah had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seven months ago. The NSCN-IM said it had released the letter to the media on Monday as the outfit, being accountable to the Nagas, wanted to inform them of the delay and the lack of response from the Prime Ministers Office to our people. On the official invitation of the GoI (Government of India), we first arrived in India in 2002 and after our subsequent visits, we have since 2010 patiently stayed in India to conclude an acceptable and honourable political settlement. As mentioned, several rounds of talks with the Prime Ministers of India and the representatives of the Gol have already been completed and the unique outcome was the signing of the Framework Agreement (FA) on August 3, 2015... However, in the given circumstances and in order to save the political dialogue, the talks should resume at the PM level without pre-condition and outside India in a third country. And if our stay in India is no more welcome, all necessary arrangements must be made for us to leave India and the political talks be resumed in a third country, Muivah, who is the outfits Ato Kilonser (Prime Minister), had written to Modi. Stating that most of the important issues, except for the Naga flag and Naga constitution, have been already resolved, Muivah brought to Modis notice some matters of serious concern regarding the activities of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), National Investigation Agency and Assam Rifles. ALSO READ | Naga tribal bodies term statement of NSCN-IM as intimidation As you are well aware, 22 years of political negotiation had started at the PMs level without pre-condition and outside India. We had come to India on the invitation of the Gol. However, we are totally shocked and surprised that even after more than two decades of political negotiation, the MHA and its agencies have become obnoxious, Muivah wrote. He said it was shocking and surprising that the Centre started branding and accusing the NSCN-IM members as terrorists and with impunity, its agencies were arresting them. The activities of the MHA are deliberate and calculated policies of the Gol to downgrade the political negotiation to India's internal law and order issue. The Nagas are observing a repeat of the militarization and a consciously carried out state terrorism in the Naga areas and against the Naga people through a show of force, arrest and allegation against NSCN members...The design and intent of the MHA and its agencies are unjustifiable and a serious provocation that goes against the principle and spirit of the political negotiation and the FA, Muivah wrote. He said the activities of the representative of the PMO RN Ravi had become a matter of great concern after the latter was appointed as the Governor of Nagaland. The NSCN-IM leader said Ravi was consciously functioning within the law and order purview of the Constitution of India which was a deliberate deviation from his appointment as the Centres interlocutor in Naga talks. The NSCN-IM had signed a ceasefire agreement with the Centre in 1997. At the initial stage, several rounds of peace talks were held abroad. CAMBRIDGE, Md., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) announced his endorsement of Mia Mason to represent Maryland's 1st District in Congress. Senator Van Hollen has represented the state of Maryland in the U.S. Senate since January 2017 and previously served in the House of Representatives for Maryland's 8th congressional district. From his bold record in the Maryland legislature to his effective leadership in the U.S. Congress, Chris Van Hollen has focused on waging and winning tough fights on behalf of hardworking Maryland families. Throughout his time in public service, Senator Van Hollen has been a leader in fighting for equal rights, equal justice, and equal opportunity for all. "Mia Mason is no stranger to public service. She's served our country for over twenty years in the military -- in the Army, in the Navy, and in the National Guard. And she will bring that same sense of duty, service, and dedication to Congress to represent the people of Maryland's 1st District. Mia will fight for what's fair -- health care as a human right, equal rights, and economic opportunity for all. I'm proud to endorse Mia and look forward to working with her in Congress," said Senator Van Hollen. Mia Mason talked of her excitement over the endorsement: "Senator Van Hollen has been at the forefront of the push for civil rights and equality legislation that not only protects our communities from discrimination but provides them a way to breakthrough socioeconomic barriers so they can succeed. I am thankful for his endorsement and I look forward to working with him to continue the fight for equity and equality for all in the future." With Senator Van Hollen's endorsement, Mia Mason has succeeded in building support from even more of Maryland's leaders including fellow Congressional representatives John Sarbanes, Anthony Brown, Jamie Raskin, and House Majority Leader, Steny Hoyer. Mia has also received endorsements from Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates Adrienne A. Jones and Harford County Councilman Andre Johnson. Groups like Vote Vets, the Lower Shore Progressive Caucus and Our Revolution Maryland have also thrown their support behind Ms. Mason. Media Contact: Dennis Parker [email protected] 410-227-6454 To Learn More about Mia Mason, visit www.miadmason.us SOURCE Friends of Mia Mason Related Links https://www.miadmason.us PHOENIX A Maricopa County Sheriffs deputy has been arrested on suspicion of two counts of unlawful sexual conduct, department officials announced Sunday. They said Gary Kaplan was placed on administrative leave following his arrest, pending an internal investigation. Officials didnt provide any details of what led to the charges and the arrest or how long the 46-year-old Kaplan has been employed by MCSO. It also was unclear Sunday if Kaplan has a lawyer yet who can speak on his behalf. Sheriff Paul Penzone said in a statement that he is intolerant of violations of public trust and/or abuse of the law and his office owes it to the community to be transparent and accountable. Biden campaign ads tout his Catholic faith: It 'motivates everything' Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The campaign of Democratic presidential hopeful and former Vice President Joe Biden has touted his religious beliefs in a series of new advertisements released last week that will target religious television and radio outlets, in the hopes of appealing to religious voters. The first two video commercials, both posted on YouTube on Sept. 28 and titled Principles and Morning, discuss his Catholic Christian background and beliefs. In the Principles video, which has as of Monday morning over 153,000 views on the platform, Biden talks about his Catholic background, which includes believing that everyone is entitled the dignity. My father would say the cardinal sin of all sins is the abuse of power, whether its a man raising his hand to a woman, whether it is the government abusing its power, Biden says in the ad. You have an obligation to reach out and be inclusive. For the Morning ad, which has as of Monday morning around 120,000 views, a narrator explains that Joe Bidens faith has carried him through dark times. The loss of his wife and daughter. The death of his eldest son, Beau, said the voiceover. But hes never lost hope, because Joe knows what it means to find purpose in service to others, to be your brothers keeper. And right now, thats exactly what we need. The ad included a soundbite from Biden speaking at a church, quoting Psalm 30:5, weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. A third ad, released Sept. 30 and titled A Man Guided by Faith, featured a woman named Bernadette, a parishioner of the Wilmington, Delaware parish St. Josephs on the Brandywine, talking about Bidens faith practices. Joe Biden has been part of our parish for more than 40 years, she explained. Even now, when Joes back home, we see him at Mass on Sunday. You can tell how important Joes faith is to him. Its what motivates everything: Joes beliefs, his values, the kind of president Joe would be. According to The Washington Post, the advertisements are slated to run in 14 battleground states ahead of the November election. Conservatives have been critical of Bidens overall faith outreach, given that the practicing Catholic strongly distances himself from the Catholic Churchs teaching on issues like abortion and homosexuality by embracing left-leaning positions on those topics. In a statement emailed to The Christian Post, CatholicVote President Brian Burch called the new Biden ads deceptive, adding that religious voters arent fooled by them. Biden has pledged to gut religious schools, strip away fundamental religious freedoms, and for the first time in American history, force taxpayers to directly pay for abortion, stated Burch, referring to Bidens support the repeal a federal measure that bans federal tax dollars from being used to fund abortions. Look no further than the unprecedented assault on the Little Sisters of the Poor that Joe Biden has pledged to restart if elected, Burch added, noting the order of Catholic nuns that sued the Obama administration over the Obamacare birth control mandate. Josh Dickson, national faith engagement director for the Biden campaign, told CP in an earlier interview about the campaign outreach to faith communities. We have evangelical leaders who will be supporting the vice president publicly. We are doing listening sessions with evangelical leaders to hear from them, said Dickson to CP back in August. We're hearing from people; we're engaging people, we're developing relationships. We are going to be including evangelical voices in our 'Believers for Biden' events, and we are also going to be launching 'Evangelicals for Biden. Last Friday, evangelical leaders launched the group Pro-Life Evangelicals for Biden, who describe themselves as evangelicals who disagree with Biden and the Democratic Party Platforms stance on abortion but feel that Joe Bidens policies are more consistent with the biblically shaped ethic of life than those of Donald Trump. The signatories include Richard Mouw, president emeritus of Fuller Seminary in California; Ronald Sider, a Trump critic and president emeritus of Evangelicals for Social Action; civil rights leader, author and pastor John M. Perkins; as well as retired Florida megachurch pastor Joel C. Hunter, who said he voted for President Donald Trump in 2016. Red dresses draped on trees and red ribbons tied to handrails and bridges stood in stark contrast to blustery grey skies Sunday signs of respect for Indigenous women who have gone missing or been slain in Manitoba. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 4/10/2020 (475 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Red dresses draped on trees and red ribbons tied to handrails and bridges stood in stark contrast to blustery grey skies Sunday signs of respect for Indigenous women who have gone missing or been slain in Manitoba. The province's third annual day of honouring and awareness for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG) was marked with fewer public displays, leaving families to search for contactless outlets for their grief amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Manitoba's government is still reviewing the calls to action from last year's final report of the national inquiry into murdered and missing Indigenous women in Canada. click to read more Manitoba's government is still reviewing the calls to action from last year's final report of the national inquiry into murdered and missing Indigenous women in Canada. On the province's third annual day of awareness for murdered and missing Indigenous women and girls Sunday, Indigenous and Northern Relations Minister Eileen Clarke issued a statement saying the provincial government's cabinet committee on gender-based violence continues to "conduct a detailed review and cross-department analysis of the Calls for Justice" included in the June 2019 report. The cabinet committee, which started in 2018, is also working with Indigenous-led organizations and is expected to make its own recommendations and issue a future report on how to make Indigenous women and girls safer in Manitoba, Clarke stated. The provincial MMIWG Honouring and Awareness Day, which has been in place since 2017, coincides with the National Day of Action for Indigenous Women and Girls every Oct. 4. Close A scaled-down outdoor vigil surrounding the MMIWG monument at The Forks Sunday afternoon saw roughly 30 people intermittently stop by in memory of relatives and friends they've lost, passing bundles of tobacco in honour of those lost souls. It was organized by NDP MLA Nahanni Fontaine who introduced the bill in 2017 that led to Manitoba officially recognizing Oct. 4, which is also a national day of action in honour of MMIWG and by Gerri Pangman, whose sister Jennifer McPherson was murdered in 2013. Even during a pandemic, Pangman said, women are still going missing or being taken. JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS A red dress placed to honour Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) on Red Dress Day at the Forks on Sunday. The province's third annual day of awareness for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG) was marked with fewer public displays, leaving families to search for contactless outlets for their grief amid the COVID-19 pandemic. (John Woods / Winnipeg Free Press) "It's important never to stop," she said, urging families to continue to speak out about injustice now, a year after a national MMIWG inquiry culminated in a final report and calls to action some of which are still awaiting implementation in Manitoba. Her mother, Betty Rourke, said it's important to her to have a day dedicated to this kind of remembrance although the grief never stops. She's been checking in with other MMIWG support-group members by phone or text since pandemic restrictions prohibit their usual weekly meetings. "That was so much healing for me, just to sit there with other family members and I knew what (they were) going through in their hearts, in their minds," Rourke said. "I really miss some of the family members, because I've gotten close to so many of them. I really miss seeing them." JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Painted stones were placed on the monument for Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) on Red Dress Day at the Forks on Sunday. (John Woods / Winnipeg Free Press) Rourke's sister Jennifer Glenna Johnston was murdered on Aug. 17, 1980 less than 40 years before her namesake niece was also killed. That's part of the reason Rourke decided to participate in a virtual awareness campaign this year she said she doesn't want any other grieving families to feel alone. "I lived through that loneliness by myself, when my sister was murdered; there was nobody to reach out to. So I guess I'm dealing with this COVID OK, but still I miss my extended family members," Rourke said. She was photographed as part of a social-media campaign happening this week via Manitoba Moon Voices. Every day until Oct. 10, the non-profit organization is posting portraits of six Manitoba families who've lost loved ones. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. Sonya Ballantyne of Moon Voices said the campaign was born out of pandemic-related restrictions on public gatherings, but after seeing its early success Sunday with the ability to reach thousands of social media users, it may be expanded in the future. "When it was evident that we weren't going to be able to have a vigil in person, we decided that we would do this photo series as a way of honouring the families who have dealt with this sort of trauma, and (it's) just a way to let people know we're still out here, thinking about them," Ballantyne said. "When we hear 'murdered and missing Indigenous women and girls,' that often doesn't include the people that are left behind, and I think the photo series helps remember the families who are left behind and how they're impacted." katie.may@freepress.mb.ca Twitter: @thatkatiemay The National Youth Organiser of the National Democratic Congress(NDC) has described the deputy Bono East Youth Organizer who lost his life in an accident as a pillar of the party in the Bono region. Grief-stricken George Opare Addo in an interview with NEAT FMs morning show 'Ghana Montie' said Mr. Isaac Kojo Nsiah is irreplaceable after commending his hard works in the region before his untimely death. Mr. Nsiah died in a road accident involving an NDC branded double cabin pick-up vehicle he was on board with some other three regional executives of the party clash with an Articulator truck vehicle loaded with fertilizer around the Tuobodom toll booth on the Techiman- Kintampo highway. According to reports they were returning from Apesika after attending the funeral of the Kintampo South Deputy Youth Organizer of the NDC, Mr. Gbagbins late mother when the two vehicles collided head-on leading him to dying on the spot. Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Fewer than 10 percent of Americans have had coronavirus and developed antibodies that might protect them from reinfection, the first nationally-representative study of its kind found. Somewhere between 8.2 and 9.4 percent of Americans have antibodies to coronavirus, according to new data on dialysis patients analyzed by Stanford University researchers. That puts the US far afield of public health experts estimates for the herd immunity threshold - at which point enough people would have some protection against infection that the virus's spread would be very limited - of around 60-70 percent. The new figures align with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) director Dr Robert Redfield's estimate that 90 percent of Americans are still vulnerable to infection. They also underscore the possibility of a dangerous second wave of coronavirus cases and deaths this winter. A vaccine could stem the devastation of another wave, but worry is mounting that President Trump will push through the approval before the November 3 election - whether or not it has been sufficiently vetted and proven safe. The proportion of people with coronavirus antibodies was lowest in states in the West (light green), while about a quarter of Northeasterners have already had COVID-19 (dark green) The Stanford University analysis included data on more than 28,000 Americans undergoing dialysis for kidney failure across the US. The scientists chose dialysis patients as their sample population because they routinely go to health clinics, and have their blood regularly drawn any any way. The researchers figured that their demographics and risk factors were fairly representative of the US on the whole. Nationwide, the prevalence of antibodies came out to an average of 9.3 percent of the US population. But the proportion of already-infected residents varied widely from state-to-state, region-to-region and among different demographic groups. Only about five percent of people in the Western US had antibodies, while 25 percent of people tested in the Northeast had the immune proteins to coronavirus. Coronavirus is a highly contagious pathogen, and it thrives in areas where it can quickly jump from host to host. And that pattern showed in the Stanford study. The most densely-populated parts of the US, such as New York City, San Francisco and Boston, had antibody-positive rates 10-fold higher than the rates compared to less populous areas. People living in poorer areas of the US were about twice as likely to have already been infected by this summer - when most of the study's samples were collected - compared to those in wealthier neighborhoods. Antibody rates divided along racial lines, too. According to the CDC, the rate of coronavirus infections among black Americans is 2.6 times higher than the case rate for white people. For Hispanic or Latinx people, the rate is 2.8 times higher. The Stanford findings were similar. Between 11.3 percent and 16.3 percent of people living in predominantly Black or Hispanic neighborhoods had antibodies,far higher than the 4.8 percent of residents of largely white neighborhoods who had antibodies. Black and Latinx people in the US make up an outsized share of 'essential workers' - nurses, grocery store and service employees, mail carriers - and have suffered far higher rates of infections in the first wave of coronavirus infections. It remains unclear how much protection these people will have from re-infection, but the study is a worrying harbinger of how many are still vulnerable if the US experiences the anticipated surge of coronavirus this winter, even though over seven million people have already been infected. 'This research clearly confirms that despite high rates of COVID-19 in the United States, the number of people with antibodies is still low and we havent come close to achieving herd immunity,' said study co-author Dr Julie Parsonnet of Stanford. 'Until an effective vaccine is approved, we need to make sure our more vulnerable populations are reached with prevention measures.' Trump is hell-bent on having a vaccine approved by November 3. But even if it is, top infectious disease expert Dr Anthony Fauci said that 'a large proportion' of Americans will likely not get the vaccine this year, meaning it could be a long, dismal winter. When scientists come up with a vaccine for the global threat posed by COVID-19, they will have one the planets oldest, strangest-looking and least understood and decidedly blue-blooded residents to thank. The 450-million-year-old horseshoe crab, the closest living relative to the prehistoric trilobite and a denizen of Earths oceans since nearly 200 million years before dinosaurs showed up is at the center of the race to make a safe and effective vaccine available to the planets 7.8 billion people. You might know tank-like horseshoe crabs, commonly found in Long Island Sound and along its beaches, primarily as the heavily armored, exceedingly leggy creatures you sometimes find on Connecticut beaches in Old Saybrook, Guilford, West Haven, Milford, Stratford, Fairfield, Norwalk and Greenwich, among other places. Jennifer Mattei / Contributed Perhaps you even once flipped one rightside-up to help it survive after its long, pointed tail failed to do the job. But without horseshoe crabs deep blue blood, which is a crucial part of the biomedical research process to make sure new breakthroughs are safe, a whole bunch of medical miracles just wouldnt happen. Maritime Aquarium / Contributed Its actually important for the tests of anything that goes into the human body at all, including vaccines and other injectible pharmaceuticals, heart valves and other breakthroughs, said Dave Hudson, a research scientist at the The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, which recently opened its new Horseshoe Crab Culture Lab, with a window that lets the public watch as staff work and young horseshoe crabs molt their exoskeletons to grow. One purpose of the Norwalk lab is to try to breed and grow horseshoe crabs to bolster their numbers in the Sound. Maritime Center / Contributed / The Atlantic horseshoe crab, aka Limulus polyphemus, is found along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of both the United States and Mexico, from Maine to the Yucatan. More closely related to spiders and scorpions than actual crabs, the misunderstood critters are one of four species of horseshoe crab in the world. Maritime Aquarium / Contributed The other three species all are found in Southeast Asia: Tachypleus tridentatus, T. gigas, and Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda, which occupy coastal waters of Asia from India to Japan, including waters around the Dutch East Indies and the Philippine Islands. Horseshoe crabs, which also are important sources of food for migratory birds, do better in some places than others Delaware Bay seems to be the center of horseshoe crab life here in the United States. The Connecticut and New York populations are considered to be vulnerable, or of concern, which is one step better than being threatened, according to researchers and a 2019 report by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission. Maritime Center / Contributed / In addition to being used for biomedical research, horseshoe crabs are heavily fished as bait for the whelk (scungilli) and American eel fisheries, which many researchers consider to be a greater threat than any increased demand from the biomedical industry. Biomedical companies bleed horseshoe crabs and then return them to the ocean, although about 15 percent of the horseshoe crabs taken to be bled dont survive the process, researchers say. I have a contacts highly placed within the industry, who I respect, who basically said theyre talking about a couple of days production for all of the Limulus amebocyte lysate, or LAL, that would be needed for production of enough vaccines to inoculate the worlds population, said Mark Botton, professor of biology and co-director of the Environmental Sciences Program at Fordham University. The worlds human population currently is estimated at about 7.8 billion. I would think that this is not going to push (horseshoe crabs) over the edge, said Botton, co-chairman of the International Union for Conservation of Nature Horseshoe Crab Specialist Group and has been doing research on horseshoe crabs for many years. Even if they required double the number of crabs, its still a relatively small number compared to the amount of horseshoe crabs that are taken for the bait-fishing industry. LAL produced by horseshoe crabs is used for the detection of bacterial endotoxins in medical applications. Immune proteins in horseshoe crab blood clot when exposed to bacteria, Botton said. There currently are six companies along the Atlantic coast that extract horseshoe crab blood to produce LAL. They are located in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Maryland and Virginia, according to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Connecticut crabs Jennifer Mattei, professor of biology at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield and the longtime leader of Project Limulus, a study and census of horseshoe crabs in Long Island Sound, said that while there are companies as near as Massachusetts that bleed horseshoe crabs to create LAL, Long Island Sound crabs are not harvested or bled for that product. Maritime Center / Contributed / But on the other hand, our population is in decline and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commissions Horseshoe Crabs Advisory Commission cited New York and Connecticut as having a poor management plan right now because the population is in decline. Horseshoe crab populations have been in decline in Long Island Sound for at least 15 years. Theyre supposed to change the management rules and the harvest rules this year, said Mattei, who has studied horseshoe crabs in the Sound for 22 years. So were waiting to see what theyre going to do. Justin Davis, assistant director of the DEEPs Marine Fisheries Division, said that while Connecticut horseshoe crabs currently are not used for biomedical purposes, the available science suggests that their status ... is not great at this point. Davis, who is one of three Connecticut representatives on the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commissions Horseshoe Crabs Advisory Commission, and also a member of the commissioners Horseshoe Crab Management Board, said the most recent stock assessment suggests that the Connecticut stock is in kind of a depressed state. Jennifer Mattei / Contributed A 2019 ASMFC assessment found that the New York fishery, which includes New York, Connecticut and northern New Jersey, was the only one of four geographical horseshoe crab fisheries rated poor. The Northeast (Maine, Massachusetts and Rhode Island) fishery and the Delaware Bay fishery both were found to be neutral and the Southeast fishery was rated good. Unfortunately, with this species we dont have the good scientific models that we have for some of the other species, said Davis. Its one of those species where we know that its threatened, but we dont really know ... why its threatened. Since 2001, Connecticuts annual fishing quota for horseshoe crabs has been set at 48,689 crabs, while the actual annual harvest has varied between 15,000 and 30,000. In 2018, more than 99 percent of Connecticuts harvest was taken by just 12 license holders, according to DEEP figures. Over the last 18 years, the number of horseshoe crabs harvested in Connecticut has ranged from 12,175 in 2001 to a high of 32,535 in 2008. From 2013 through 2018 the number was about 20,000 per year. Maritime Aquarium / Contributed Fishing generally takes place on land when the animals come up on beaches to spawn, Davis said. Our annual quota is much smaller than New Yorks and we dont harvest the entire quota, he said. The horseshoe crab fishing season in Connecticut runs from May 22 to July 7, although horseshoe crab fishing is banned in Milford, Stratford, West Haven and Westbrook. The Connecticut Audubon Society in February urged state officials to ban the harvest of horseshoe crabs and increase law enforcement efforts to curtail illegal horseshoe crab harvesting. Shorebirds, in particular the Red Knot, time their migration to their northern breeding grounds to coincide with the horseshoe crabs egg-laying. The drop in the number of horseshoe crabs in Long Island Sound, as well as in Delaware Bay and other locations along the coast, is believed to have led to a decline in the population of Red Knots, which recently were listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act. One of the purposes of Matteis research is to try to understand the critters movement patterns in the Sound, including whether or not we share the population with New York or whether we have a separate population in Connecticut. Over the years, they have tagged more than 90,000 crabs and we have a huge database now that shows that they move all around, Mattei said. Crabs may be on our beach, and then two years later theyll be on the North Shore of Long Island, she said. Fifty percent to 60 percent of the horseshoe crabs appear to be home bodies that dont travel much, but the rest appear to move mostly from east to west, and sometimes cross the Sound, Mattei said. So theres one population, one genetic population, in the Sound, she said. It takes a horseshoe crab about 10-12 years to mature, which is when the females start laying eggs, and they live for probably another 10-12 years beyond that, Mattei said. The oldest can be 20-25 years old. The problem is, particularly in the Sound, that not many make it to adulthood, she said. While each female horseshoe crab may produce up to 88,000 mature eggs, only a fraction of the eggs laid make it to adulthood, Mattei said. Decades of research, harvests Horseshoe crabs value for medical research was originally discovered in the late 1960s or early 1970s at Woods Hole Marine Biological Laboratory on Cape Cod, Mattei said. They spilled some blood on a countertop and it immediately coagulated. Prior to that, researchers used rabbits to assay the purity of new medical breakthroughs, she said. This sped up the process. Thats why everybodys talking about it ... they can do an immediate test with the horseshoe crabs. Horseshoe crab spawn during the late spring on coastal beaches along the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts. They lay their eggs in nests buried in the sand, generally in areas within bays and coves that are protected from the surf. New Jersey has banned the harvesting of horseshoe crabs and in Delaware Bay, which is bordered by New Jersey on the north and Delaware on the south, only males may be taken, said Mattei. Mattei said that the three Asian species of horseshoe, which are not protected the way Atlantic horseshoe crabs are, all are in decline, in part because of heavy fishing by China both for medical purpose and for food. In China, they eat the eggs, she said. Botton said horseshoe crab eggs also are eaten as food in parts of Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, as well as Southern China. Down in Delaware Bay, however, its the shorebirds that are eating the eggs. Thats one reason why its not enough just for horseshoe crabs to not be threatened. Its one of the species that needs to be abundant, Mattei said. In Delaware Bay ... shorebirds eat the eggs. ... It helps fuel their flight to the northern areas where they lay their eggs. The population in the Sound is not big enough for that ... and thats one of the reasons why theres not a lot of shorebirds, Mattei said. Its not going to go extinct, but they are not functioning well in Long Island Sound. Protection John Dubczak, executive director of reagent development and pilot program operations for Charles River Laboratories, one of the companies using horseshoe crab blood for the LAL test, said the biomedical industrys need for horseshoe crabs and their blood does not constitute a threat. In fact, it has driven the development of laws to protect the animal, Dubczak said The animals best security is the biomedical industrys continued reliance on horseshoe crab blood for LAL. Without the need for LAL, the legal protection for the horseshoe crab is not guaranteed, and they would again fall prey to overfishing and used as bait for eel and whelk. Jennifer Mattei / Contributed For this reason, it is critical that we serve as advocates for the humane treatment of these animals and strive to achieve balance between our need for this valuable material, and the livelihood of the animal that provides it, he said. In South Carolina, for example, we have driven the development of laws to protect the horseshoe crab against commercial bait fishing, Dubczak said. The bleeding process involves draining up to 30 percent of the animals blood, where the LAL is extracted, and then returning the crab to its environment, Dubczak said. In South Carolina, the regulatory statutes require that horseshoe crabs be returned alive to coastal waters of comparable salinity. Dubczak also said the additional demand because of the search for a COVID-19 vaccine poses no threat to the animals. If 5 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccine are needed, then that results in 50,000 batches of COVID-19 vaccine being produced to meet that need (the typical batch size is 100,000 doses,) he said in an email. Three vials of the batch are tested for endotoxin (representing the beginning, middle and end of the run) ... resulting in 150,000 samples that require testing. Each sample is tested in duplicate along with duplicate positive controls. A total of 600,000 tests will be performed and the amount of LAL needed for 600,000 tests amounts to less than a single, normal days production for the three LAL manufacturers in the United States, Dubczak said. This places no undue burden on the LAL supply chain or horseshoe crab populations. mark.zaretsky@hearstmediact.com Sick leave. Personal days. Vacation time. How about paid time off for fighting wildfires? In Napa Valley, where many volunteer firefighters work in wineries or vineyards, that ends up becoming an unexpected but necessary employee benefit. Its no small sacrifice for the people who choose to volunteer, but it also asks a lot of the employer. These volunteers are on call year-round, not only during fire season, responding daily or weekly to incidents like traffic collisions or fire alarms. Theyre frequently deployed on strike-team duty in other parts of California. Sometimes, the volunteers can be gone for 10 days at a time or more, meaning that their work whether theyre lawyers for a famous winery or tractor drivers for a family vineyard gets delayed. Yet for all those disruptions, Napa wineries also have a unique understanding of the importance of releasing their employees for firefighting efforts. After already weathering one major fire the Hennessey Fire in August the valleys wine industry is now watching as the catastrophic Glass Fire, which began Sept. 27, burns through structures on at least 15 winery properties. Already, its clear that 2020 is the most destructive year in the California wine industrys history. The choice is simple. Next time, after all, it could be their property that needs saving. Granting time off to fight a fire that could potentially be endangering a company and its employees theres a sense that thats important in Napa, said Leah Kelly, who works in e-commerce at Hall Winery in St. Helena and volunteers with Napa County Fire Station 15 in Rutherford. Mike Carlson Napa has a high proportion of volunteer firefighters 12 of the countys 18 fire stations are staffed by volunteers, or about 150 volunteers total, according to Napa County Fire Chief Geoff Belyea. (The county fire efforts are under the jurisdiction of Cal Fire, while the cities of Calistoga, St. Helena, Napa and American Canyon have their own fire departments.) The volunteers largely serve stations in the rural, less densely populated areas of the county. Two of those volunteer stations, including Station 15, are in Rutherford, a postage stamp-size town with a population of 164. Mike Carlson joined Station 15 five years ago when he started working for Caymus Vineyards as vice president and general counsel. Hed previously been a volunteer firefighter in Marin County, having enlisted partly to live out my childhood dream of becoming a firefighter, he said, but also out of a sense that the need for help was going to become dire. We knew these mega fires were going to come someday, Carlson said. So I figured it would be great to not sit around helpless. In Napa, were the first line of defense and well get dispatched alongside the full-time guys, he said. Its like a full-time second job. His boss at Caymus, owner Chuck Wagner, said it isnt easy when Carlson takes off for weeks at a time. Mikes a high-end employee, and its a small company so he extends beyond the reach of general counsel, Wagner said. When hes gone he is sorely missed. But its worth it, Wagner added: Fire is on everyones minds right now, and it has to be a group effort. Carlson said he always brings his laptop with him, and even if hes on a weeks-long strike-team assignment in Yosemite or Shasta, he tries to answer emails during breaks. Station 15 receives about 300 calls a year, said chief Davie Pina, who has volunteered with the station for the last 36 years while running his own vineyard management business. Two of his employees are also volunteers. You can have no calls in a week, then six in a day, he said. Becoming a volunteer firefighter is no small feat. New recruits must complete a 5-monthlong academy, plus two ongoing development classes per month. Honestly theres not a huge difference in the training requirements between a career and a volunteer, said Belyea, who started as a volunteer in Napa before joining Cal Fire full time. While combating an active fire, their shifts are often 24 hours on, then 24 hours off. Vintner Steve Burgess became a volunteer with Napas Station 21, in Deer Park, in 2017. The Tubbs Fire was his initiation. Its almost like being a firefighter is a vacation from the wine industry, he said, explaining that in firefighting everyone is on the same team, working toward a common goal, practicing open communication. Burgess family sold their eponymous winery to the owner of Heitz Cellar in September, mere weeks before two of the winerys structures burned in the Glass Fire. Kelly of Hall Winery learned the rigor of the job firsthand in the early months of this years fire season. A lifelong athlete, she had always been interested in working as a first responder, and the catastrophic 2017 Wine Country Fires inspired her to apply to be a volunteer. She graduated from the Napa County Volunteer Fire Academy in June 2019. When she joined Station 15, she became the first woman firefighter in the stations 100-year history. She was working from home around 2:30 p.m. on Aug. 17 when she got the call to respond to the Hennessey Fire in eastern Napa County. It was to become her first major wildland fire. Thats when everything became a bit more real, she said. It felt like it was right in my backyard. It felt like, this is why I signed up to do this. Mike Carlson Other Station 15 volunteers had been at the scene since early that morning, including Chris Morisoli, who works for his familys vineyard business in Rutherford and has volunteered with Station 15 since graduating from high school in 2002. With all that lightning going off, we all knew it could be bad, said Morisoli, who is also a helicopter pilot with the National Guard. The Station 15 crew would spend the next week battling the Hennessey Fire, which burned more than 317,000 acres as part of the LNU Lightning Complex, one of the largest in state history. Some of the volunteers worked 48 hours straight as resources remained thin, the result of the dozens of other fires simultaneously burning in California. Ultimately, the Hennessey Fire destroyed more than 250 homes, but Carlson said hes proud of the many homes and wineries that his team was able to save, including Volker Eisele Family Estate. Residents and winery owners in these rural outskirts of the county helped in the effort, in some cases bulldozing their own fire lines to stop the flames in their tracks. I wasnt scared, said Kelly of her first big assignment. I think your adrenaline kicks in. As much as you feel tired at the end of a shift, you just keep going. I think that being there for a purpose is a big motivator and drives you to continue. Food Guide Top 25 Restaurants Where to eat in the Bay Area. Find spots near you, create a dining wishlist, and more. The crew scarcely had time to rest. After the Hennessey Fire passed, many members of Station 15 were dispatched to the Slater Fire near the Oregon border. And then another, more destructive blaze came to their own backyard: the Glass Fire. The Glass Fire is one of the worst fires I have been on, Carlson said. There are areas of Napa that are just gone, such as Deer Park. Station 15 was part of the battle in the fires first 48 hours that saved the St. Helena Hospital, though the blaze ultimately claimed a number of houses and an elementary school. It was very discouraging and a bit depressing, Carlson said of the Glass Fire, but we did not give up. Mike Carlson Burgess said that firefighting has taught him how to be a better land steward, revealing the importance of having animals who can graze on overgrown grasses, for example. By the same token, there are certain advantages to having a volunteer force comprised of winery and vineyard employees. They may be more likely to understand where to find water sources or how to treat grapevines as fire breaks. A lot of farming is problem solving, said Morisoli, and really its just a lot of fixing and moving heavy equipment. Once, Morisoli recalled, a big trailer was blocking an entrance to a house that the squad needed to reach in order to extinguish a fire. Luckily, Davie has every hitch known to man, he said, and was able to drag the trailer away. Even more important, maybe, is the deep familiarity that these volunteers have with Wine Country itself not just as locals, but as professionals whose wine knowledge is inextricable from an understanding of the regions intricate geography. Theyre taking time off from their day jobs to do it, but protecting the land is in many ways an extension of their work. Thats the biggest thing we bring to the table, Morisoli said, just knowing the roads and gates and people. That knowledge is also what drives these volunteers to endure those long shifts and perilous proximity to death. Theyre not just saving any community theyre saving their community. During the 2017 Tubbs Fire, Carlson was fighting back the flames in the Fountaingrove neighborhood of Santa Rosa, his hometown. The air was thick with smoke. Ash rained from the sky. A piece of paper blew past him: a scorched page from his 1987 Santa Rosa High School yearbook. It had burned edges, but a couple of my friends were on the page, Carlson said. That hit home. Esther Mobley is The San Francisco Chronicles wine critic. Email: emobley@sfchronicle.com By Nicholas J. Sacco If I were to tell you that two people convicted in the following crimes received the same sentence, what would you think? In the first scenario, a sheriffs officer makes a terrible lapse in judgment and steals $70 from a crime scene and is later caught. In the second, an NJ TRANSIT supervisor hatches an elaborate scheme to steal $2.1 million in taxpayer funds using a web of fake companies over several years, before his fraud is finally discovered. Both are convicted. The officer gets 3 years in prison; the transit supervisor is sentenced to 5 years. Is that equitable, or is it evidence of a fundamentally flawed and broken system? I believe strongly that it is the latter, which is why I support removing mandatory minimum sentences for official misconduct offenses and giving sentencing discretion to judges based on the severity of each individual case. This issue is currently being debated in the state legislature, where a majority in the state Senate agreed with my position and voted for a criminal justice reform package that removed mandatory minimum sentences from official misconduct as well as several other crimes. Now, that bill is awaiting consideration in the state Assembly, and if it passes there it would go to the desk of Gov. Phil Murphy. Many have asked why this amendment was inserted into the legislation now, and the reasons are simple. When the New Jersey Criminal Sentencing & Disposition Commission issued its guidelines on offenses that should no longer have mandatory minimums, I and several other members of the state Senate had reservations about supporting the bill because it could reduce the punishment for criminals convicted of armed robbery and serious drug offenses. After speaking to advocates our concerns were somewhat addressed, but there was still doubt about the bill. But when it became clear that we had an opportunity to address the inequities in the official misconduct charge and add that to the bill -- an issue that has long generated concern among senators -- we were able to amass a majority of the Senate caucus to support the legislation and move it forward. Some have painted this amendment as a way to protect corrupt politicians, however, this is not the case at all. On the contrary, the outcry it has generated is an example of the news media buying into a false narrative that says that our state is uniquely corrupt. This agenda has been pushed by those who have misused the justice system to push their political ambitions, eliminate rivals and gain favor with voters. That is what led to the official misconduct charge being made a mandatory minimum offense in 2007, which made New Jersey one of only two states in the nation that carry a mandatory minimum for this crime. Forty-eight states realize how unfair and inequitable mandatory minimums are and how they can be abused by those with political aspirations. Former U.S. Attorney Paul Fishman famously pushed back on this Culture of Corruption narrative, saying that this was not true in New Jerseys case and that it was demoralizing and insulting to the residents of our state. He was correct. Perhaps this is why some of the leading criminal justice advocates in the state raised much less of an issue with removing the mandatory minimum sentence for official misconduct than those in the news media have. Deborah Poritz, the highly respected former chief justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court and chair of the commission, has said that the commission is currently considering whether to recommend removing all mandatory minimum sentences, which would include those for official misconduct. Another member of the commission, Public Defender Joe Krakora, called the amendment a minor change and said that it should not derail the bill package from moving forward. This is a public policy issue worthy of a robust, public debate but thus far it has instead been demonized by media outlets more interested in sensational headlines than in policy. I would urge the members of the state Assembly and the governor and his team to pay little attention to the media narrative and instead focus on the facts -- that this amendment makes the entire bill package stronger and that supporting it will correct many serious deficiencies in our criminal justice system. State Sen. Nicholas J. Sacco represents the 32nd Legislative District, which includes parts of Bergen and Hudson counties. He is also the mayor of North Bergen. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Heres how to submit an op-ed or Letter to the Editor. Bookmark NJ.com/Opinion. Follow us on Twitter @NJ_Opinion and on Facebook at NJ.com Opinion. Get the latest news updates right in your inbox. Subscribe to NJ.coms newsletters. TUSCOLA COUNTY After meeting in closed session for about an hour Thursday on the resurrected cremation permit fee issue, Tuscola County commissioners had little to say about the matter when they came back into open session. After receiving an opinion from their legal counsel last month, commissioners thought the cremation permit fee had been laid to rest, but the matter was resurrected by their corporate counsel saying he needed to meet with them in closed session. For the last five months, the county and the Michigan Institute of Forensic Science and Medicine have been at odds over the cremation permit fee. The area of contention is MIFSM unilaterally raising the cremation fee from $10 to $63 without notice to the commissioners or to funeral homes in the county. County Attorney Eric Morris with Braun Kendrick previously sent a letter to Doctor David Stockman, who is the CEO of MIFSM. That letter advised MIFSM that commissioners have the exclusive authority over the fee charged for cremation permits, that they immediately cease directly charging the $63 fee, that any cremation permit fee collected be sent to the county, and then be disbursed by the county back to MIFSM. Commissioners believed the letter from their attorney was the final word on the issue, so they were surprised when they received notice from their attorney that he wanted to meet with them in closed session again on the matter. In closed session, we reviewed correspondence from our attorney related to MIFSM," said commission Chairman Thom Bardwell. "If the board wants, they can comment on this or we can take some time to consider our options. Michigans Open Meetings Act provides 11 circumstances where a meeting may be closed to the public. One of those is for an attorney consultation. After Bardwell gave fellow commissioners an opportunity to talk, there was a brief pause before Commissioner Dan Grimshaw responded. Mr. Chair, I would concur with your conclusion this is a matter of hold fast to where we are, Grimshaw stated. And, it would be helpful to have our legal counsel communicate that with Mr. Ransford, to also let him know we are standing pat. The issue of the arbitrary fee change was brought to the commissioners attention by Mark Ransford, of Ransford-Collon Funeral Homes in Caro, who has been the spokesperson for Tuscolas funeral homes on the cremation fee issue. Ransford pointed out several times over the last few months that the county abdicated its responsibility to a private sector entity. In doing that, he said, it combined two different philosophies of free-market and government, which gave a private enterprise the ability to choose the best of both. There will be more discussion on this in the future; but for today, we are going to move forward with our other business, Bardwell said. After that, commissioners continued on, addressing other items on the agenda. However, Tuscola County isnt the only one that has an issue with MIFSM changing the cremation permit fee after the contract was signed. Some funeral home directors in Huron County also have an issue with MIFSM changing the fee. According to James Childs, who owns Champagne Funeral Chapel in Pigeon, funeral home owners in Huron County are also planning to challenge MIFSM on the cremation fee. Huron Countys charge for a cremation permit had been $35 at the time commissioners contracted with MIFSM, but the MIFSM also increased the cremation permit fee for Huron County to $63 without notice or justification. According to Childs, Huron funeral home directors are closely watching Tuscola County and its stance with MIFSM. Besides Tuscola and Huron counties, MIFSM also has contracts with eight other counties in the area. Because of the consolidation of services from 10 counties into one entity MIFSM there are now 23 investigators, two pathologists, four medical examiners, and in-house toxicology lab in Saginaw. WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Red Cross today announced a $7.5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., in support of the organization's disaster relief efforts underway throughout the United States. Western wildfires, powerful Atlantic hurricanes and multiple tropical storms have left tens of thousands in need of shelter, food and support as they begin the long task of recovery from these catastrophic events. Since August, Red Cross volunteers have been working around the clock in disaster-impacted states to provide more than 720,000 overnight stays in emergency lodgings and serve more than 2 million meals and snacks. The grant from Lilly Endowment will support immediate Red Cross disaster relief activities, including sheltering, feeding, distribution of emergency supplies, and provision of individual financial assistance as well as comfort to those impacted by these disasters. "Every day, the American Red Cross relies on the generosity of our donors, partners and volunteers to fulfill our lifesaving mission," said American Red Cross President and CEO Gail McGovern. "We are truly fortunate to have the support of Lilly Endowment, and are incredibly grateful for this remarkable contribution that will help us deliver care and hope for tomorrow to people facing such great need." "The American Red Cross is playing an essential role in helping people whose lives have been upended this year by significant natural disasters, ranging from wildfires to hurricanes. In 2020, the impact of these disasters has been compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic," said Ronni Kloth, Lilly Endowment's vice president for community development. "We are pleased to support the American Red Cross' vast network of staff and volunteers who are helping people rebuild their lives and communities under extraordinary circumstances." Each year, the Red Cross responds to more than 60,000 disasters across the country, including home fires, hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes and wildfires. Red Cross services are provided to people in need of assistance at no cost through the generosity of Red Cross donors. About Lilly Endowment Inc. Lilly Endowment Inc. is a private philanthropic foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly Sr. and sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. Although the gifts of stock remain a financial bedrock of the Endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders' wishes, it supports the causes of community development, education and religion. It funds significant programs throughout the United States, especially in the field of religion, though it maintains a special commitment to its founders' hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana. About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross. SOURCE American Red Cross Related Links www.redcross.org Standardbred and Thoroughbred racehorse owner Edward 'Ed' Boden, 72, of Westbury, N.Y., passed away on Saturday, October 3, 2020. Boden, while best known as the founder and managing partner of the Drawing Away Stable, billed as a 'no-expenses' Thoroughbred partnership, also owned Standardbreds from the 1970s through the 2000s. As evidenced by nearly every Drawing Away Stable winners circle photo and there were hundreds Boden often stood in the back or at the far end, preferring to let others enjoy the experience and the moment. Some of his greatest joy came from watching others enjoy their Drawing Away Stable experience, as he created Drawing Away Stable with the intention of allowing the average person an opportunity to enjoy the fun and excitement of horse ownership in a tangible and affordable way. Services will be private. Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Ed Boden. (USTA) Portland police spent $7.9 million responding to demonstrations and violent riots in just the first two-and-a-half months of unrest in the city, according to a National Review analysis of protest costs. The vast majority of the spending, or $5.3 million, was for officer overtime pay, according to recently released Portland Police Bureau data of spending from June 1 to August 13. The agency also spent over $1 million for regular officer pay and $341,000 in premium pay. The data documents nearly 1,500 expenditures for things like office supplies, gasoline, and equipment rentals. Food was the biggest police expenditure after officer pay, with the bureau spending almost $300,000 for things like water, coffee, pizza and sandwiches, according to the data. Expenditure details show that police spent at least $17,644 at Baja Fresh, $10,144 at Red Robin, and $9,764 at Jersey Mikes sub shop. The data doesnt include any spending since mid-August. The protests in Portland initially began in late May in response to the in-custody death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. But while demonstrations related to Floyds death have ended in most other American cities, theyve continued in Portland for more than 120 days, even as the countrys attention has turned to other national dramas, including last weeks presidential debate and President Donald Trumps COVID-19 diagnosis. Portland police made 906 protest-related arrests through Sunday, according to a timeline on the bureaus website. Many of the protesters have been arrested on charges including rioting, assault, arson and disorderly conduct. Officers are regularly attacked with rocks, eggs, soup cans, and even firebombs, mortars and fireworks, according to police accounts of the demonstrations. On September 28, a Portland police sergeant was hospitalized after he was punched in the face by a protester, and five officers were sprayed with a chemical irritant, police reported. Police arrested John B. Russell, 41, of Portland, on Sunday, after they say he smashed in the back window of an officers car and pepper-sprayed the interior while the officer was doing paperwork, the agency reported. Russell faces charges of assaulting a public safety officer, aggravated harassment, and criminal mischief. Story continues Attacks like this one remind us all that there is the potential for people to try to take direct, violent action against police officers, Portland Police Chief Chuck Lovell said in a prepared statement. Since the demonstrations began, police have declared 27 riots, according to the timeline. August was the busiest month for police, with 291 arrests and 15 riots, the agency reported. Even on days when police havent officially declared the demonstrations to be riots, theyve often classified them instead as unlawful assemblies and civil disturbances. In addition to attacking police officers, the demonstrators have regularly vandalized and burglarized buildings, blocked roads and set arson fires. On September 24, demonstrators spray painted the Portland Police Associations office building, set fire to the plywood covering the offices front door, and attempted to light the buildings awnings on fire. More from National Review A 31-year-old Cavan Monaghan Township man is facing charges after an altercation with a Ministry of Natural Resources conservation officer on Saturday afternoon. A vehicle driven by a man and an MNR vehicle driven by the conservation officer collided on County Road 10 in Cavan Monaghan at about 3 p.m., city police said. The man became irate while the conservation officer called in to report the collision to police, police said. The man reached into the MNR vehicle, causing damage to an MNR communication device, police said, while advancing at the officer and shouting toward the officer. Other motorists jumped in to assist the conservation officer, who then attempted to arrest the man, resulting in what police called a struggle. City police arrived and continued the arrest, police said, but during the arrest the man made threats toward the city police officers. Douglas Robertson, 31, of Cavan Monaghan Township was charged with assaulting a peace officer, assault with intent to resist arrest, uttering threats and mischief under $5,000. He was held in custody and appeared in weekend court on Sunday. Its Friday, September 18 in Tunis. On Kasbah Square, seat of the Tunisian government and favourite spot for social and political demonstrations since the 2011 revolution, the Awfiya (Faithful) association is holding a protest sit-in. Squeezed between the entrance to the Aziza Othmana Hospital and the road separating them from the governments fenced-off compound, some 50 people have been gathered since 9 AM. Led by lawyer Lamia Farhani, sister of the martyr Anis Farhani who was shot and killed at age 20 by a police officer on January 13, 2011, Awfiya has come to defend the rights of the heroes of the revolution and their families. Through an old loudspeaker that carries her voice badly, the Awfiya president evokes the continuing grief, expectations and frustrations of the demonstrators around her. Elderly men and women, mostly from the regions, carry the portraits of their missing. The slogans and placards they carry call for publication of the final list of the wounded and martyrs of the revolution, which ten years after the events of winter 2011 is still being passed around authorities and commissions. The cries and protests of the dictatorships victims have been resounding in Tunisia for the past decade, but their anxiety this morning is at its height. An issue forgotten by the new government Until the beginning of July, significant progress had been made by the previous government of Elyes Fakhfakh: publication in the Official Journal on June 24 of the Truth and Dignity Commission (IVD) report; establishment of a commission to design the governments plan for implementing the IVD reports recommendations; creation on July 7 of a commission to manage the Dignity Fund for reparation and rehabilitation of victims; and the start of consultation on a final list of the wounded and martyrs. But since the installation on 1 September of the Samir Mechichi government to replace Fakhfakhs administration, which resigned following a conflict of interest case, no action has been taken on transitional justice nor on the victims of the revolution issue. In his inaugural address to parliament on 31 August, the new head of the executive, a technocrat, made no mention of transitional justice. Magistrate Thouraya Jeribi, the new minister in charge of relations with constitutional bodies and civil society, could have inherited the transitional justice post in this ministry, replacing transitional justice proponent Ayachi Hammami. But this did not happen. The two commissions created by the previous government one to implement the IVD recommendations and the other to activate the victims fund have come to a standstill for lack of competent officials. Victims feel abandoned once again. And for the past two weeks, various associations of survivors of serious human rights violations have been protesting in the Kasbah. No reconciliation without judgments, they insisted during their sit-in. Anti-transitional justice populism On Saturday September 19 in front of the government palace, at least 400 people came to listen to Abir Moussi, president of the Parti destourien libre (PDL), a political party grouping some of former President Ben Alis political staff and supporters and founded in 2013 by his former Prime Minister, Hamed Karoui. Moussi is a lawyer, she is in her 40s like Lamia Farhani. But everything separates these two women in black dresses. Passionaria of the Ben Ali system, populist and denialist of the revolution according to her detractors, Moussi was elected to the Assembly of Peoples Representatives (ARP Tunisian parliament) in autumn 2019. Since then, her popularity due to her talents as an orator, her ability to capitalize on party disappointments and her declared hatred of Islamists has continued to win votes and support in the polls. Before that, Moussi had already distinguished herself by her ruthless criticism of the IVD, its work, its president and the very idea of reparation for victims. With a security detail that would make the most reputed leaders of historical parties jealous, Moussi addresses a public that is already convinced: bourgeois and modern-looking couples over 40 with masks and Tunisian flags; many women in jeans and sunglasses. Her security agents are vigilant: Mrs. Abir does not want her supporters photographed, we are told. The audience seems to love the succession of revelations about what she says this government is hiding on laundering of terrorism, its financiers and ideologues. One of the banners reads: The People want police rule back. Less than a week later, on Friday September 25, Moussi submitted to the ARP a draft amendment to the law on transitional justice to, as the partys communique stated, put an end to the political manipulation of this issue and the exclusion of relevant expertise, in addition to double standards. This proposal clearly seeks to limit or do away with transitional justice. Moussi is counting on the new political landscape to see through this project, which she had already announced in March 2017. At the time, she had no seat in parliament. Today, political groups and personalities are courting her to talk about reconciliation such as the Kalb Tounes (Heart of Tunisia) party of Nabil Karoui or amnesty for the Ben Ali family, a proposal from the Islamist Lotfi Zeitoun in a Facebook post on 19 September, date of the first anniversary of the dictators death. Former Ben Ali advisers But this project is also part of a burning issue that opposes the two heads of the executive, President of the Republic Kais Saied and Mechichi. On September 20, the new head of government wanted to appoint two economic advisors who were among Ben Alis former close collaborators, Taoufik Baccar and Mongi Safra. Baccar was Minister of Finance in the 1990s, before heading the Central Bank until the revolution. Safra served for many years as economic advisor to the deposed president. He is considered the architect of financial arrangements for the Ben Ali clan. He is implicated in a case revealed by the National Commission of Investigation into Corruption and Embezzlement set up in 2011. Between 2008 and 2009, to satisfy Ben Alis desire to buy a new plane, Safra organized a sale of shares held by the airline Tunis Air to relatives of the president. The deal burdened the company with financial difficulties, as reported by news site Inkyfada. But Safra has seen this case amnestied under the law on reconciliation adopted by parliament in September 2017. It is still the case, says Khayem Chamli of NGO Lawyers Without Borders, that Mr. Safra is on the list of defendants in case No. 31 of the specialized chamber in Tunis, where he has appeared twice. We have the reports of the case. He is being prosecuted for embezzlement of public funds. We should remember that even though hes one of the beneficiaries of the reconciliation law, transitional justice trials, according to Article 148 of the Constitution, do not allow any form of amnesty. According to the schedule of hearings, Safra will be recalled to the bar of the Tunis chamber in mid-December. Baccars name is also mentioned in the indictment sent by the IVD to the specialized chamber in Tunis in case No. 31 on corruption involving Ben Ali, part of his family and several of his associates. Ending the exclusion of former regime expertise The two economic advisers appointment immediately provoked the ire of the President. Receiving Mechichi at the presidential palace on September 23rd, he expressed his hostility to this choice loud and clear in a video broadcast on the official page of the presidency: There is no question of these people coming back while their cases are still before the courts, the angry president thundered at a stunned head of government. The next day the Prime Minister confided to private television channel Ettassia through one of his staff that the appointment was not yet confirmed. It was in reaction to this position of President Saied that Abir Moussi brought her legislative initiative to end the exclusion of expertise from the former regime and the harassment and psychological torture of those involved in legal proceedings in the specialized chambers, according to a party press release. The PDL president knows that she is currently unable to get her bill adopted given Islamist deputies of Ennahdha who have a majority in Parliament. She also knows that President Saied, known to be favourable to transitional justice, would not ratify it either. However, the lawyer is betting on the long term. All the polls say that she will win hands down in the next legislative elections, and she wants to make a mark for the future. Already, on social media thousands of fans are talking about her initiative, praising her strength of character, clear-sightedness and perspicacity. The Canadian team will be led by a former deputy director of operations at the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and will have members from several federal departments. Foreign Affairs Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne says Canada will have its own forensics team examine the evidence on the crash of Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752. Iran admits an air-defence battery shot the airliner down near Tehran in January, blaming human error, Globe and Mail wrote. Mr. Champagne says the Canadian team will be led by a former deputy director of operations at the Canadian Security Intelligence Service and will have members from several federal departments. Read alsoIran ready to pay compensation in Ukrainian plane case mediaCanadian experts have been present as observers in the probe of the crash being carried out under international air travel rules, but can play only a very limited role. Fifty-five Canadians and 30 permanent residents were among the 176 people killed in the crash, with many more of the passengers bound for Canada as well. The route from Tehran to Kyiv was a popular first leg of the voyage from Iran to Canada. PS752 downing in Iran: background Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 18:49:30|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CAPE TOWN, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Monday that members of the public will be able to apply to lease 700,000 hectares of under-utilized or vacant state-owned land in seven of the nine provinces in the country. Ramaphosa hailed this as a major milestone in the agrarian reform process, which gives effect to the promise of the Freedom Charter that the land shall be shared among those who work it. Given South Africa's history, broadening access to agricultural land for commercial production and subsistence farming is a national priority, Ramaphosa said in his weekly presidential newsletter. As agricultural land is the mainstay of the natural resource base, the availability and sustainable use of farmland to grow crops and for animal husbandry is key to the nation's survival, he said. South Africa has vast tracts of land suitable for agricultural production, with 37.9 percent of its total land area currently being used for commercial agriculture. Although the post-apartheid land reform process has resulted in more land being restored and restituted to black South Africans, the pernicious effects of the 1913 Natives Land Act continues to be in patterns of farmland ownership. That act went far beyond dispossessing millions of people of their ancestral land, depriving the indigenous people of their right to own and work the land on which they depended for sustenance and livelihood, Ramaphosa said. This great injustice of the act effectively "engineered the poverty of black South Africans," he said. "Its aim was to destroy our people's prospects for self-reliance, independence and economic prosperity. At the most fundamental of levels, it destroyed our ability to feed ourselves," the president said. Like many other countries, South Africa's arable land is under threat from land degradation, water scarcity and urban encroachment. Prime agricultural land is also being lost through land-use changes. Transforming patterns of agricultural land ownership is vital not just to address the historical injustices of the past, but is necessary to safeguard the nation's food security, Ramaphosa said. The 2019 report of the Presidential Advisory Panel on Land Reform and Agriculture noted that while the country does exports food, 41 percent of people in rural areas and 59.4 percent in urban areas have severely inadequate access to food. Agrarian reform has been a priority of successive administrations since democracy, said the president, noting that between 1994 and 2018 the state delivered 8.4 million hectares of land to previously disadvantaged individuals under the land reform program. This progress amounts to less than 10 percent of all commercial farmland. In his State of the Nation Address early this year, Ramaphosa committed that state-owned agricultural land would soon be released for farming. This redistributive vision aims to strike a balance between social justice and redress, and to enhance agricultural output by bringing more black farmers into the mainstream of the economy, Ramaphosa said on Monday. "Land is a productive asset that generates profit and can be used for collateral to secure other assets," he noted. South Africa must ensure that land acquired for farming purposes is productively used, the president said. To safeguard the allocated state land for farming purposes, the lease is not transferrable, and beneficiaries will sign a lease agreement with the state and pay a rental fee consistent with the land value, according to Ramaphosa. He said farmers must be supported along the road to sustainability and profitability. As part of this program, beneficiaries will be trained in financial management and enterprise development, Ramaphosa said. Experience has shown that emerging and small-scale farmers often lack the financial skills to exploit market opportunities and to integrate with value chains, he said. Women, youth and persons with disabilities are being prioritized as beneficiaries, Ramaphosa said. Broadening access to land and opportunities for farming will support job creation and enterprise development, and improve the market for food, agricultural goods and services, he said. The ultimate goal of releasing these land parcels is to transform the agricultural landscape by growing a new generation of farmers, Ramaphosa said. Enditem The two candidates running to represent the 36th Senate District have differing ideas and proposals about economic growth, taxes and policing. State Sen. Alex Kasser, a Democrat, won the seat in the traditionally Republican district two years ago. Her Republican challenger this year, Ryan Fazio, a newcomer to the state political stage, is blasting her vote to approve the police reform bill that was passed in Hartford in July. The 36th Senate District covers Greenwich and parts of Norther Stamford and New Canaan. During the campaign, Kasser has pointed to her legislative accomplishments in the area of infrastructure spending and student debt. The student loan bill was signed into law. The infrastructure measure has passed in the state Senate, but not advanced to the House of Representatives. Kasser designed legislation for the creation of an infrastructure bank, which she called an innovative way of financing transportation projects. It would allow public-private partnerships for transportation improvements, a measure used in numerous other states. It would allow private funders to invest in transportation projects they would not own the project. ... Its not privatization, said Kasser, a Greenwich resident. There are billions of dollars of private capital that want to invest in secure, long-term investments. The one-term state senator said she was also pleased to have developed the law aimed at lowering student loan debts. It would give tax credits to companies that help college graduates from Connecticut in their workforce pay down their student debts, lowering the student loan burden that can be a real obstacle for young people seeking to maximize their potential, she said. Kasser also wants to expand a public-healthcare option allowing the state healthcare plan to take in small businesses. The senator worked previously as a corporate lawyer, and she earned her law degree at the University of Chicago. She studied at Wesleyan as an undergraduate and pursued graduate studies at Yale in environmental law. Also a Greenwich resident, her opponent Fazio worked in the renewable energy field before running for public office. He said his goals as a lawmaker are to reduce taxes and grow the economy. Fazio, who studied economics at Northwestern University, is looking to cut the state income tax rate and to eliminate certain deductions and tax credits to make up the lost revenue. He said reforming the tax structure os a priority: That would create more simplification, and it would reward work and job creation and I think it would raise income for middle class families, said Fazio, who serves on the Representative Town Meeting. The Republican challenger said he wants to curtail what he called burdensome unfunded mandates on schools, giving more control to local school boards and principals. They have to spend hours upon hours on paperwork and other regulatory compliance that comes from Hartford, he said. We dont even know how many unfunded mandates there are, from the state government on local school districts, as far as I know they dont exist in one place. But a sharp point of disagreement between the candidates centers on the recent police reform law. The new legislation created a number of new initiatives, such as impaneling an inspector general to investigate cases involving excess police force, limiting circumstances in which deadly use of force can be justified and requiring officers to report excessive use of force by their colleagues. Among the more controversial sections is one limiting government immunity protections and allowing lawsuits against officers if malicious, wanton or willful behavior is involved. This bill created a baseline legal standard, said Kasser, who voted for the law, adding that it closed gaps in the law to make bad behavior accountable. It sets standards and requires the best training and technology for all police departments, so they can deescalate situations and prevent violence, she said. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. But Fazio said he would work to scrap the law. It takes away proactive policing measures, that are valuable, like consent searches, he said, and officers are now prohibited from asking motorists if they can search a vehicle with the drivers consent. It imposes too much liability on our local police, Fazio continued. The candidate was also critical of the process behind the laws passage, saying it was conducted without a lot of public consideration or debate in what he called a hurried manner. The race has also seen some political sparring over an apparently fake Twitter account in August. The @FazioPAC account was using inflammatory rhetoric and wording, such as infestation, which Kasser condemned. Fazio said he had nothing to do with the account. It was disappointing that my opponent would use a totally unsubstantiated claim against me and my character, on the basis of a Twitter account which I tried to have removed, which was created to make me look bad. Kasser responded, I never attributed any Tweet to my opponent. It was an account identifying itself as a supporter, and thats exactly what I said. I believe its incumbent on all of us to call out racism and hate whenever we see it immediately, thats all I did. rmarchant@greenwichtime.com A warning alert went out to Penn State students in State College about 3 separate sexual assaults reported in dorms this weekend. As WJAC-TV reports, Penn State campus police are investigating three separate sexual assaults that occurred early Saturday morning including an alleged attack in a womens restroom. Details from WJAC: Police say the first assault occurred sometime between midnight and 1 a.m., at the Nittany Apartments Residence Complex. Authorities say this was reported just before 2 a.m. and that it is believed that the victim knew the offender. The second assault reportedly occurred in the first-floor womens restroom of Johnston Commons, located inside the East Halls Dormitory, between 12:45 a.m. and 1:15 a.m. This assault was reported by an anonymous, third-party source, around 4 a.m., and that it is believed that the victim did not know the offender. The third assault also occurred at the East Halls Residence Complex, between 2 a.m. and 4:45 a.m., by an offender known to the victim. Police say the assault was reported around 5:30 a.m. Anyone with information is asked to contact campus police at (814) 863-1111. BREAKING NOW: 2 Pa. university students plunge from 4-story roof while taking selfies at party Worker at Pa. used car dealership killed after being run over on car lot Undercover child sex trafficking sting snares 3 Pa. men now facing federal charges and life in prison Man accused of pulling woman from car, shoving her down after fender bender in Pa. bar parking lot Dont overthink it advised one of my sources regarding the effect of the weather on the factory trade. It was a fair comment because despite a cold and showery outlook for the week, the bottom base being offered for bullocks continues to be 3.60/kg, with heifers 3.65/kg. I use the phrase bottom base because stories keep emerging of an extra 5-10c/kg being offered by agents to secure either numbers or select better quality according to individual factory requirements. Are the traditional big autumn numbers not there? As September progressed and as the weather remained largely dry, the spike in the kill that occurred at the end of August when heavy rain and poor ground conditions pushed out 36,260 was not maintained. Department figures show that 33,753 cattle went through the gates of the countrys exporting plants for the week ending September 27, up just 225 on the previous week. September is now behind us, however, and the forecast isnt encouraging for those with cattle on grass. Yet if farmers continue to manage the numbers, the autumn trade may not see any serious spike in supplies. And remember while Brexit has is a concern going forward, when was the last time you heard factories complaining that moving product was difficult? Of course, theres never any guarantees about how the trade will develop. However, I dont think it is as unpredictable as Sundays Premier League results. Returning to prices, cull cows are also stable, with R-grades 3.20-3.30/kg, O-grades 3.00-3.05/kg and your better P+ continuing at 2.80-3.00/kg. Its a similar story on the bull side, although at the top end Im told that while the general run of Us are getting 3.60-3.65/kg, 3.70/kg is available to some once carcasses are tidy and not too heavy. In relation to Brexit, my request for information from the Department of Foreign Affairs on the state of Irelands readiness to collect Brexit tariffs brought a detailed reply, includingextract. The need for customs declarations will apply to trade with the UK from January 1. In the event that no agreement has been reached on a zero tariff FTA, then the EU tariffs will be applied to all imports from the UK from January 1. As tariffs are already collected on imports from other third countries, Revenues IT systems are ready to collect tariffs on imports from the UK once required, consequently, there will be no delay to the implementation of tariffs to imports from the UK at the end of the transition period. Do we assume that Her Majestys Revenue and Customs system is at a similar state of readiness when it comes to dealing with imports? We have to. Eleven years after Australian Idol went off the air, former judge Mark Holden is gearing up to reveal some behind-the-scenes secrets. The 66-year-old entertainer is set to host a new podcast with his daughter Katie, called The Idol Archives, and each week, they'll speak to a former contestant. The first contestant to appear is former runner-up Anthony Callea, who reveals he was on the receiving end of a death threat during his stint on the show in 2004. Blast from the past: Eleven years after Australian Idol went off the air, former judge Mark Holden is gearing up to reveal some behind-the-scenes secrets. Pictured with contestant Cosima De Vito in Melbourne in November 2004 'It was hand-delivered to the house and it was essentially, if Anthony won the grand final he will be killed,' the 37-year-old recounted. 'They brought the police to the house and they flew my parents up from Melbourne with a security guard, they put them in a hotel just to be safe 'Leading up to the grand final, everywhere I went I had to have a bodyguard.' Terrifying: The first contestant to appear is former runner-up Anthony Callea, who revealed he was on the receiving end of a death threat during his stint on the show in 2004 'It was hand-delivered to the house and it was essentially, if Anthony won the grand final he will be killed,' the 37-year-old recounted. Pictured performing during the Australian Idol grand final in Sydney in November 2004 In a terrifying twist, Anthony said an audience member jumped from a balcony onto the stage during the grand final, but was quickly tackled by security. He said the moment never made it to air, with the TV cameras quickly zeroing in on the show's hosts instead. Meanwhile, 2006 winner Damien Leith said he hardly received any money from his debut album, after being forced to sign a waiver during his audition for the show. Ripped off: Meanwhile, 2006 winner Damien Leith said he hardly received any money from his debut album, after being forced to sign a waiver during his audition for the show. Pictured performing in Melbourne in February 2007 The 44-year-old claimed he was 'tricked' into handing over his earnings, meaning he hardly profited from his Idol win. In another episode of the podcast, which is set to stream on Spotify from October 9, Axle Whitehead confessed he had no recollection of exposing himself onstage during the 2006 ARIAs. The 39-year-old admitted he'd been high on 'hallucinogens' when he took to the stage to present an award with his penis out. All a blur: In another episode of the podcast, which is set to stream on Spotify from October 9, Axle Whitehead confessed he had no recollection of exposing himself onstage during the 2006 ARIAs Revealing all: The 39-year-old admitted he'd been high on 'hallucinogens' when he took to the stage to present an award with his penis out 'I've had a good run with hallucinogens, so I knew how to handle myself, and then the phone starts calling at eight in the morning and it was the publicist going, "Ah, you are in a lot of trouble, where are you?"' he recounted. Elsewhere in the podcast, season one finalist Cosima De Vito revealed it took her 'a good year' to recover from her failed stint on the show. The 43-year-old was forced to drop out of the competition after being diagnosed with nodules on her vocal cords, and said she developed a subsequent fear of performing. National Institutes of Health intramural researcher Harvey J. Alter, M.D., has won the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his contributions to the discovery of the hepatitis C virus. Dr. Alter is a Senior Scholar at the NIH Clinical Center's Department of Transfusion Medicine and shares the award with Michael Houghton, Ph.D., University of Alberta, Canada, and Charles M. Rice, Ph.D., Rockefeller University, New York City. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said, "Prior to their work, the discovery of the Hepatitis A and B viruses had been critical steps forward, but the majority of blood-borne hepatitis cases remained unexplained. The discovery of Hepatitis C virus revealed the cause of the remaining cases of chronic hepatitis and made possible blood tests and new medicines that have saved millions of lives." "I am overwhelmed at the moment, but so pleased that this originally obscure virus has proven to have such a large global impact," said Dr. Alter. "There are so many persons at NIH who advanced my research, but for now I can only thank NIH, itself, for creating the permissive and collaborative environment that supported these studies over the course of decades. I don't believe my contributions could have occurred anywhere else." Dr. Alter's career at NIH has spanned more than 50 years where he focused his research on the occurrence of hepatitis in patients who had received blood transfusions. In the 1970s, despite the discovery of hepatitis B, Dr. Alter saw a significant number of patients receiving blood transfusions still developed chronic hepatitis due to an unknown infectious agent. Dr. Alter and his colleagues showed that blood from these hepatitis patients could transmit the disease to chimpanzees, the only susceptible host besides humans. Subsequent studies also demonstrated that the unknown infectious agent had the characteristics of a virus. Alter's methodical investigations defined a new, distinct form of chronic viral hepatitis, which became known as "non-A, non-B" hepatitis. His work was instrumental in leading to the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic agents and providing the scientific basis for instituting blood donor screening programs that have decreased the incidence of transfusion-transmitted hepatitis to near zero. "Harvey Alter is a scientist's scientist - smart, creative, dedicated, persistent, self-effacing, intensely dedicated to saving lives," said NIH Director Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph.D. "His work to identify the nature of the hepatitis C virus has led to dramatic advances in protecting the blood supply from this very serious illness, and ultimately to the development of highly successful therapy." Dr. Alter had focused on viral hepatitis even before his work on hepatitis C. In the 1960s, he co-discovered the Australia antigen, a key to detecting hepatitis B virus. Later, he spearheaded a project at the NIH Clinical Center that created a storehouse of blood samples used to uncover the causes and reduce the risk of transfusion-associated hepatitis. In 2000, Alter was awarded the prestigious Clinical Lasker Award. In 2002, he became the first NIH Clinical Center scientist elected to the National Academy of Sciences, and in that same year he was elected to the Institute of Medicine. In 2013, Dr. Alter was honored with the distinguished Canada Gairdner International Award. "Harvey is known for a very sharp sense of humor, a tireless, work ethic, and for treating everyone well," said James K. Gilman, M.D., chief executive officer of the NIH Clinical Center. "As a long-time military physician, I am grateful to what Harvey and his co-winners have done to make it possible to provide a safe blood supply to the men and women who serve the country in uniform." Dr. Alter's co-recipient Dr. Rice has received continuous NIH funding totaling more than $67 million since 1987, primarily from NIH's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. For more on Drs. Alter, Houghton and Rice's contributions to the discovery of the hepatitis C virus, visit the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences site: https://www.nobelprize.org/prizes/medicine/2020/press-release/. ### About the NIH Clinical Center: The NIH Clinical Center is the world's largest hospital entirely devoted to clinical research. It is a national resource that makes it possible to rapidly translate scientific observations and laboratory discoveries into new approaches for diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. Over 1,600 clinical research studies are conducted at the NIH Clinical Center, including those focused on cancer, infectious diseases, blood disorders, heart disease, lung disease, alcoholism and drug abuse. For more information about the Clinical Center, visit https://clinicalcenter.nih.gov/index.html. About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation's medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit http://www.nih.gov. Who is Jackson Pollock, and why is one of his less famous works of art and its upcoming sale at an auction so significant? The Everson Museum of Art will be auctioning off a painting by the famed abstract expressionist this week through Christies Auctions. Red Composition, 1946, is expected to sell for millions. The Syracuse museum leadership said it plans to use the money to diversify its collection by acquiring works created by artists of color, women artists and other underrepresented creators. michael barbaro From The New York Times, Im Michael Barbaro. This is The Daily. [music] In his final days as president, Donald Trump is promising to withdraw as many American troops as possible from Afghanistan, all but guaranteeing a major place for the Taliban in the countrys future. Today, as that new chapter begins in Afghanistan, my colleague Mujib Mashal on what hes learned from living with and reporting on the Taliban for the past 25 years. Its Wednesday, November 18. Mujib, tell me about some of your earliest memories of growing up in Afghanistan. mujib mashal I think some of my earliest memories is my grandpa visiting our home in Kabul often. He lived in a different part of the city. And he had a cane. He was a tall man, and he loved walking. Every time he would visit our home, and he would knock on the door with his cane, it would be a moment of joy for us. We would run to the door. But this was a period where the daily reality of this city was just the sound and the destruction of rockets. And in the house we lived in, we had a small garden where my dad would grow vegetables when he would come back for work. One of those rockets landed as he was watering the flowers and vegetables in the backyard. michael barbaro Wow. mujib mashal And we had this apple tree right in the middle of the backyard. And we were lucky because the rocket cut through that apple tree. And it landed, and it went through the soft dirt, and it didnt explode. But I remember very clearly for years after that, my dad would pour water into that spot where the shell had gone in, thinking it would rust up the shell, and it wont explode. So it almost became part of his backyard garden. michael barbaro And what was going on in the country that explained these terrifying experiences that are happening in your backyard? Who was behind this? mujib mashal So this was the early 1990s. Theres a power vacuum. The Soviet Union that had invaded Afghanistan has just pulled out, and all these guerrilla factions that were funded by the C.I.A. as part of this larger Cold War rivalry to fight the Soviets, are now fighting each other over the power vacuum. So Kabul, the capital city, is divided into little fiefdoms by these guerrilla factions, and theyre firing rockets on each other. But as a kid, we didnt know of these bigger dynamics. What I was experiencing was largely just the sound and the horror of the rockets. And the little excitement that we had during the day was a couple hours in the evening wed get electricity. Power would come up, and then people would switch on their television. And when youd switch on the television, there would be a recitation of the Koran. And there would be the national anthem. And then they would go into a childrens program. Most days than not, it was a show about I think it was a rabbit. And the rabbit was chasing a carrot. And I dont really remember the plot of the story. But I just remember in the daily routine, in all the chaos, this was a moment of laughter, and color, and normalcy, right? michael barbaro Mm-hmm. mujib mashal But that didnt last long. I think I was seven or eight when it ended. michael barbaro And why was that? What had happened? mujib mashal It was 1996, and one of the guerrilla groups, the Taliban, moved into the capital. They were a force that did not believe in televisions, and music, and in any visuals. And quickly any idea of television and things like that was gone. michael barbaro They literally turned it off. mujib mashal They turned it off. michael barbaro And who were the Taliban to you? What did you understand about them in this moment? mujib mashal So we felt the changes immediately. [music] One thing I remember was, there was a constant fear of being raided if you had a television or there was music heard from your home. So you either destroyed the television that you had, burned the photo albums, or you found ways to bury them or to hide them. And my dad, I remember, he had a collection of cassettes. He had favorite singers that he would listen to. And he took his cassettes, he took the television, he took the photo albums up the stairs to this little attic we had, and he put it all there. And then at the end of the stairs, he sealed the attic with a wall. And it was so obvious. It wasnt a great disguise, really. But that is the best he could think of. And then in school I remember the subjects all of a sudden changed. Certain subjects were completely dropped. Like geography was dropped. There was multiple religious subjects that was added. And some of the teachers for those religious subjects were clearly officials of the Taliban government, because they would arrive in cars. Cars were very rare back then. And then around noon, everybody would be filed into this auditorium, where the noon prayer would happen. And one young-ish teacher, he would lead the prayers. And the prayer is supposed to be something focused, where youre not looking at anyone. But as you would bend over, as you do in a Muslim prayer, I remember we would all be focused on his gun. His gun would be strapped to his side. The other thing was my sister suddenly not being able to go to school. I have one sister, and she was older than me. And I think she was in sixth grade. And she was top of her class all the six years. So she continued studying at home, initially thinking this was a temporary thing, right? What system, what government in their right mind would completely stop girls from going to school? But quickly the sense dawned on her that she may never get a chance to go back to school. michael barbaro And how do you remember people talking about these changes? People like your parents, your aunts or uncles the adults in your life? mujib mashal Immediately if we go back to that context of a capital city in anarchy, the daily reality being rockets, being looting, where there are multiple forces inside the city, in that context, initially the Taliban was this force that brought an end to the anarchy, an end to the rockets, that people didnt fear losing their lives any moment. Then all of a sudden, at night you could leave your gates open, and nobody dared come into your home to steal anything, that all of a sudden you felt like there was order in the city. But they brought all of that at a enormous cost through terror and fear. On the streets, you would see the Taliban around prayer time, where they would forcibly lash people to the mosques. If somebody was caught stealing, their hand was chopped in front of a packed stadium at the halftime of a soccer game. You were at their mercy. They set the tone for how you lived your life. michael barbaro So how long does this period of profound trade-offs that you just walked us through, how long does that last? mujib mashal At the time, the feeling was, this was permanent. They had 95% of the country under their control. But the end of it came really unexpectedly. Osama bin Laden, who had orchestrated the attacks of September 11, 2001, was living in Afghanistan. He was a guest of the Taliban. michael barbaro Right. mujib mashal And once Bin Laden and al-Qaeda carried out those attacks in New York, the U.S. invaded, and the bombing of the city started it again. michael barbaro And what was that time like for you, the time when the United States arrives in Afghanistan and begins this enormous invasion? [music] mujib mashal I remember when the air strikes started, school still continued. And as a kid even, I knew very well that from the sky above, the planes will not be able to tell a gathering of the Taliban and a gathering of students wearing turbans. So I just distinctly remember the turban was part of the school uniform, but I would have it tucked under my arm until that last minute of entering the classroom where I really had to wear it. And then in the evenings, I remember in the darkness of the city, we could get on the roof to try to sort of estimate what part of the city was hit, because you could see the fire, to know whether we knew a relative or a family member that lived close to that area, whether we should worry or not. michael barbaro Wow. mujib mashal In school, I remember theres nervousness in the same teachers and principals were seeing. All of a sudden, those meetings at the auditorium, therell be chants of death to America. And then there was talk of how with faith and with Islam, were going to defeat this global military might. But the resistance didnt last long. It only took a couple of weeks for the Taliban to realize that this air force in particular was nothing like they had seen before. They started running pretty quickly. Then one morning we woke up, and they were gone. They just packed up and left the city. I remember for a couple of days my dad didnt really believe it. So he didnt tear down the wall to bring out his cassettes, to bring out the Television but then we finally convinced him. I just remember it was us kids begging him. Its gone, its done. We should bring out that television. And our idea was that once you bring out the television, you plug it into electricity, and you turn it on, youll go back to the same shows. [CHUCKLING] michael barbaro So just as quickly as the Taliban arrives and is a total fact of life, it is suddenly just gone? mujib mashal Yes. It was established pretty quickly on the streets when the music came back, and when the barber shops were flooded, just people getting shaves, and the beards being gone. All of a sudden, the worlds attention focuses on this deprived war-torn country. Dozens of nations come in. They open up their Embassies they open up their purses. Government is inclusive. Minorities come into the government. Women are ministers schools open up. It was a period of opportunities. And for me personally in 2003, I got a scholarship to go study in Massachusetts, in a high school. And when I was leaving, the energy on the ground at that time was, this is the new beginning for Afghanistan. This is a country on the road for democratic, fair, just governance and prosperity. And the Taliban. they dont have a place in that future. michael barbaro Well be right back. Mujib, we know that, of course, the Taliban does not go away. It starts to reemerge. And I wonder how you experienced that during your time in the United States. mujib mashal The years I was a student the United States, I would go back home to my family over the summers. And in the first few years, the Taliban occasionally would come up in the news. They would launch a small attack somewhere in a faraway district. It wasnt really part of the central conversation. But as the years passed, I felt that the group was growing stronger. They went to safe havens across the border in Pakistan. They regrouped, and they came back. So by 2012, when I returned as a reporter to Kabul, it was very, very clear that they were challenging the existence of this new, democratic system that the Americans were bankrolling. As a reporter on the ground, we felt them in the frequency of the suicide attacks we covered. A couple times a week, more than that, there will be bombings across the city, really brutal bombings. And they would just grow in size and in carnage. One time, they packed a sewage truck with explosives, and they detonated it pretty close to our office. I was driving to work that morning. And when I arrived, the desk where I work at had been flung, and the windows were smashed. And it just kept growing closer and closer to home, where the feeling as a resident of the city, as a reporter, was that if I would be stuck in a traffic knot and there would be a truck in front of me, the fear my heartbeat would go up, because anything, any moment could explode in front of your eyes. And there was nothing you could do about it. If you came out of your home, you were on the front line. [music] michael barbaro So at this point, how are you, adult reporter, thinking about the Taliban? Are they enemies of Afghanistan? Are they in some sense rulers thrown from power, trying to claw their way back, as all powers do try to do? Are they terrorists to you? How are you categorizing them in your head? mujib mashal Im seeing them as all those things. Because as a reporter, I know there is a back story to the carnage. There is an ideology to it. There is a story to it, right? The trouble is that their leaders are hiding in safe havens in Pakistan. Theyre avoiding interviews. And their fighters, the only time we see them usually is their dead bodies. So we dont have as much access to their thinking, but that started changing in 2018. michael barbaro And why is that? Remind us what happens in 2018? mujib mashal So by 2018, the Taliban have grown into a force to be reckoned with. They have presence in large parts of the country, and the loss of daily life is creating this sense of hopelessness and despair, and the war is a bloody stalemate. And the U.S. comes to a realization that despite growing an Afghan security force, despite supporting them with airstrikes, it cant really defeat the Taliban militarily. The Taliban are just stubborn. So the U.S. decides to open direct talks with the Taliban in Doha. And thats an opening for me to travel to Doha and to start meeting some of these shadowy figures that had been impossible for us to access for so long, to get a sense of how they feel about this conflict. michael barbaro Mujib, as you covered these negotiations, I wonder what was going through your head. Because these are people who took a lot from you and everyone around you. And so I know as a journalist, youre there to cover them in their official capacity, but I wonder what was going through your heart as youre sitting across from them, talking to them. Is there a temptation to confront them? mujib mashal Of course. Theres two things. One is, yes, here I am for the first time, sitting across from people in whose name a lot of carnage happened, that these big bombings happened, that have actually killed friends, colleagues that I know. So, yes, the anger is there. But as a reporter covering a war with multiple, brutal sides, Ive learned to try to keep some of those emotions in check. And what also helped was that these were characters whose names I knew. And I remember one afternoon in Doha, I was walking around the hotel where the negotiations were happening, and this one middle-aged talib wearing his turban was just standing at the edge of the shoreline, looking at the water in Doha. And I walked up to him and struck a conversation. And as he was telling me about how the negotiations were going, he paused. And then he said, well, I wont be in trouble, because you probably dont know who I am, anyways. And I was like, actually, sir, I think I know your name. And he said, who am I? And when I mentioned what ministry he led, he just started laughing, and he just smacked my knee. And he said, oh, youre a clever one. And then he said, how do you know? I was like, well, when I was a kid, I lived under your government. And on the national independence day, we would march in the stadium, and you would be in the V.I.P. area watching our parade. But this was 20 years later now. And as curious as I was about how theyre fighting this war, he starts asking me questions. Hes just bombarding me with a lot of questions about how Afghanistan has changed. And then he started asking me some questions about Taliban fighters around Kabul. And some of the ways he was asking me questions made me wonder how well he knew those fighters who were fighting in his name. And I realized really quickly that hes disconnected from a reality that has developed over the 20 years when he was hiding in safe havens in Pakistan. And to me, that was very, very telling. Because the Taliban leaders who were sitting in Doha, who were negotiating a peace deal, were actually elderly graybeards, who had been out of the battlefield for 20 years or so. They were people who had experienced the chaos after the Soviet withdrawal. And they came with a bit of pragmatism, realizing that there was a huge burden of responsibility on their shoulders to avoid Afghanistan falling into another power vacuum again. But the main leverage they have is the fighting force on the ground. So this doubt that I had of how well he knows, how well he is aware of the evolution of that force made it clearly important to me that I need to meet face-to-face with this younger generation of Taliban fighters, and understand the fighters, and the views, and the expectations of the fighter, who are the real muscle. At the end of the day, it is the fighters on the ground that matter in terms of whether this war ends peacefully or whether this country breaks into another civil war. michael barbaro So how do you actually go about meeting these fighters? mujib mashal So in February, the U.S. and the Taliban finally signed their deal. And that began the American troop withdrawal, and it mostly stopped the American airstrikes. And the Taliban reduced its attacks to open direct negotiations with the Afghan government over power-sharing, over a future government. And that was an opportunity for me to convince one of the Taliban commanders in the East to take us in and let us spend some time with his fighters. mujib mashal So were driving towards Alingar, where were supposed to meet these Taliban fighters. The process has been a little difficult. We waited for several weeks, actually months to get access. mujib mashal So just photographer, Jim Holbrook, and I mujib mashal If there ever was a window to do this, Jim, now is it. jim holbrook I know. mujib mashal Because of the airstrikes. mujib mashal And our reporter in the East, Zabihullah, we get in the car, and we drive to Laghman Province, where were meeting these fighters. mujib mashal There is a last checkpost right before a bridge where we cross into a Taliban area. mujib mashal And as the government control ends mujib mashal How beautiful are the mountains in the background, man? jim holbrook Yeah. mujib mashal Wow. mujib mashal as we drive deeper into the Taliban territory mujib mashal In their turbans, their weapons out in the open. mujib mashal were met in the middle of a road by their red unit, which is their most elite force. And they arrive on the back of motorcycles. Their faces are covered. Theyre all young fighters. And they stop us in the road. We know theyve come to welcome us. And we get out of the car to say hello. And Im nervous. Im super nervous. Its one thing to sit down in a posh hotel across from the graybearded political leaders. Its something else to sit down with their killers, with the most ruthless of their fighters. And whats going through my mind is, how do I make small talk, to break the ice? I can sense myself that Im talking fast and Im nervous. And I say hello to all of them. And as soon as they see Jim, that hes a foreigner [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] And that he speaks a little bit of the local language, [LAUGHTER] they start cracking up, and they start opening up. They lead us to their commander that were meeting, this guy named Moli Ghais, and we meet him in the middle of the bazaar. He comes out of this flour mill, and he dusts his clothes. Then he apologizes, and he says, Im sorry. I was busy milling some flour. And he tells us thats his day job. They bring some oranges and some apples, and we sit under this shade of a mulberry tree for what is a really friendly, normal conversation. michael barbaro And what does he tell you? What did you learn from him? [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] mujib mashal I ask this commander, and I said, well, the Americans are leaving. Youve justified your violence by saying, were fighting the foreign invaders. How do you justify killing fellow Afghan fighters who pray to the same God, who read the same Koran? [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] He was an eloquent man, and he said, let me tell you clearly our fight is not against the flesh and bones of the foreigners, or the flesh and bones of the Afghans. [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] He said, our fight is about the system. [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] And he said, yes, the Americans might be leaving, but how can we stop fighting if those in government are insisting on keeping the same corrupt government? [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] They see their fight as restoring their Islamic way of government. michael barbaro These fighters on the ground want to resume the life of your childhood, that level of severe Taliban government. mujib mashal Exactly. They want a strict interpretation of Taliban government that they were too young to have experienced. They werent old enough to have memories of what that government based on a rigid interpretation of Islam looked like. They didnt know that the Taliban government in the 90s, it was poverty and starvation, and people felt Suffocated So the disconnect here was that the younger fighters are excited about a victory to form a kind of government that in their mind hasnt been tried before. But in fact, it was tried, as the graybearded leaders of them who are more pragmatic at the top of the Taliban, they know that that was difficult to sustain. One of our last stops during this trip was, we went to the cemetery where mujib mashal All the white ones you know, Jim. mujib mashal It was dotted with these graves of Taliban fighters with white flags on top of them. And I was staring at this vast cemetery. [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] And the commander, Ghais, was telling me that every unit operating in that province had lost half of its men. michael barbaro Wow. mujib mashal So theres a sense of, weve paid a big price also for ideology, and for wanting the return of the Taliban rule, so we deserve it. Were entitled to it. As we were saying goodbye to leave the province, again, there was this little bit of really innocent curiosity on the part of the commander. [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] And he cornered me and he said, well, youve come from Doha. You were covering the negotiations. [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] What do you think? Is their hope for this process? And the tone in which he was asking was a suggestion of how this fight has drained them also. So it was an interesting mix of resolve, entitlement, victory, and also pure exhaustion, not only in these visuals of the cemetery around them packed with people who are his comrades killed, but also in how he asked me that question, whether this process to seek a peaceful end to this war was going to lead to anything. [NON-ENGLISH SPEECH] michael barbaro So after visiting these negotiations, after talking to the Taliban leadership and then meeting with these fighters on the front lines, I wonder what youre thinking might happen now to Afghanistan in this moment. Do you have hope for a peaceful resolution, for a compromise? mujib mashal On the one hand, you see elements that could help a peaceful resolution. But what complicates that hope is the fact that over the past several months since the negotiations started, the high rate of bloodshed has continued. And thats largely because the Taliban are refusing a ceasefire. They are initiating the attacks. And what that indicates is that perhaps the Taliban leaders at the top are walking such a fine line with their battlefield fighters, that theyre struggling to sell a compromise, and that perhaps the foot soldiers feel that they have sacrificed and lost so much in 19 years, and theyre so close to what they want, that they dont want to just allow their political leaders to make that decision for them at the table, that they want to continue their military pressure and influence till the very last minute. But the reality that creates is, it continues the despair, it continues the hopelessness for the Afghan people. Because despite a start to peace talks, lives are being lost on a daily basis. michael barbaro Mujib, it must be a strange time for you to be leaving Kabul as you are. I know your time as a reporter in Afghanistan is coming to an end. And I mean strange not just because of a delicate moment were in, in these discussions about the role of the Taliban, but because this is where you grew up. mujib mashal Yes, emotionally I will not be able to disconnect from this place. This is where my family lives. This is the place that shaped me. I will always feel what happens here. Kabul, from those days of rockets and explosions that I described, has transformed into a massive, crowded city of 6 to 7 million. There is music. There is free media. There is just the color of a happening urban center. And this generation, my generation, has grown in this new reality over the past 20 years. My worry is whether this new foundation thats been built for a vibrant reality will sustain, will grow. But what I fear is that we may slip back to those dark nightmares of factional fighting in the 90s. So it is a turning moment. Its an inflection point. And it does feel like if its not grabbed right now, this conflict could go on for another generation. And the fear is that in that space of war, things only get more extreme. The violence only gets more extreme. The brutality gets more extreme. That if this slips into another generational conflict, what weve seen over the past 40 years in terms of the brutality will probably pale in comparison to what will come. michael barbaro Well, lets hope that doesnt happen. mujib mashal Lets hope so. michael barbaro Well, thank you, Mujib. We wish you the best of luck in your next assignment. mujib mashal Thank you. michael barbaro The teenager police believe killed journalist Lyra McKee jostled with them during a violent dissident republican protest outside Maghaberry Prison. The New IRA gunman cannot be identified for legal reasons, however Sunday Life can reveal he is firmly back in the gang's fold, having spent time away from his native Derry after the murder. Images seen by this newspaper show him clashing with police and also arm in arm with convicted lunchbox bomber Christy O'Kane, who is close to Thomas Mellon, the terror group's leader in the north west. Both were present, alongside Lyra's killer, at last weekend's demonstration at the entrance to Maghaberry Prison. Expand Close Killer Photopress / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Killer Around 200 hardline republicans gathered to cheer dissident prisoners undergoing a two-week hunger strike in support of Palestinian Dr Issam Bassalat, who is being held there on a terrorism charge. Also present at the demonstration, which turned violent, was the young New IRA member filmed handing Lyra's killer the Hammerli pistol which she was shot with while watching a riot in the Creggan district of Derry in April 2019. Both were witnessed shouting at cops called to prevent the dissident crowd reaching the gates of the high-security jail. A police officer was injured during the disturbances last Saturday. Expand Close The gun used in Lyra McKee's murder / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The gun used in Lyra McKee's murder A republican source told Sunday Life: "The young fella who murdered Lyra McKee is completely brainwashed, and the sad thing is he is revelling in his reputation as the man who killed her. That's because the likes of Mellon and O'Kane are in his ear telling him how he is a great republican. "What he doesn't realise is that sooner or later he will be hung out to dry by the New IRA, just like the rest of its members who are in jail doing long sentences." The young gunman came back to Derry earlier this year to celebrate the birth of his first child after spending time in Co Donegal. Expand Close Lyra Mckee PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Lyra Mckee He fled across the border having been easily identified as Lyra's killer by the distinctive 'Team9' tracksuit bottoms he was wearing on the night of the April 2019 shooting. Since returning the gunman has been seen regularly in the company of senior New IRA figures, with last weekend's Maghaberry jail protest being the latest instance. Expand Close Christy O'Kane / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Christy O'Kane The PSNI's recovery in June of the pistol used to gun down Lyra, and the charges brought against Niall Sheerin (27) of possessing it, has not dented his confidence. Nor has prominent dissident Paul McIntyre (52) being charged with the writer's murder via joint-enterprise. Last Monday four republicans appeared in court charged with taking part in the clashes outside Maghaberry Prison. Jude McCrory (23), the Derry chairman of the New IRA's political wing Saoradh, is accused of disorderly behaviour. Three others, Emmet McSheffrey (21) and 20-year-olds Caoimhin Murphy and Jordan Devine, are charged with rioting. Expand Close Thomas Ashe Mellon / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Thomas Ashe Mellon All four were freed on their own bail of 500 with conditions that they live in addresses approved of by police, report to police three times a week and are "not to be within 100 metres of a notified or unnotified protest." The cases were all adjourned to October 26. Saoradh later complained about the treatment of the men in prison prior to them being freed on bail. The party claimed that McCrory and McSheffrey were arrested leaving Maghaberry Prison, and when a crowd went to their assistance Murphy and Devine were taken into custody. Saoradh added: "Have no doubt this was an intentional stunt by crown forces in an attempt to intimidate the protesters." Prince William, 38, tells how becoming a father changed his outlook on the world Explains how it spurred him into taking action to save endangered rhinos Duke of Cambridge's documentary A Planet For Us All airs on ITV at 9pm tonight Prince William will tell how becoming a father 'changed his outlook' on saving endangered species in an ITV conservation documentary airing tonight. The Duke of Cambridge, 38, was followed by cameras for two years as he embarked on a global mission to mobilise action for the natural world. The resulting programme, Prince William: A Planet For Us All, will be broadcast at 9pm. ADVERTISEMENT During one visit to Tanzania's Mkomazi National Park, Prince William explains how having children Prince George, seven, Princess Charlotte, five, and Prince Louis, two, spurred him into taking action to help save the rhinos. Prince William (pictured) admitted that Prince George and Princess Charlotte were both 'very cheeky' and 'as cheeky as each other' after being quizzed by children at All Saints Catholic Primary School in Liverpool, about his youngsters Prince William (pictured with his three children in June) also revealed how becoming a father 'changed his outlook' on saving endangered species in the programme He says: 'Now I've got George, Charlotte, and now Louis. Your outlook does change and that's why I had to do something because I really felt like by the time my children were 20, at the rate poaching was at, there may not have been another rhino in the world.' The prince was filmed observing rhinos in their natural habitat and fed a carrot to one female named Deborah. 'I like Deborah a lot,' he says. 'I've never known a rhino to be called Deborah before.' Click here to resize this module He continues: 'They are a prehistoric, odd-looking creature but when you get to see their characters and you get to see the family bond they have with their mum, it does make you feel like you're watching a close family unit. 'The fact that they're under so much threat is really quite sad. People might think of them as a big tank, a big hulk of an animal with a big horn but they are incredibly vulnerable. The prince was filmed observing rhinos in their natural habitat and fed a carrot to one female named Deborah, pictured During one visit to Tanzania's Mkomazi National Park, Prince William (pictured) explained how having children spurred him into taking action to help save the rhinos Elsewhere, in stirring scenes filmed at a heavily guarded ivory facility in Tanzania in 2018, where 43,000 tusks with a street value of 50million have been impounded, the father-of-three becomes visibly upset over fears for the future of elephants and rhinos 'They don't have brilliant eyesight and people will take advantage of that. And they want this horn, which is effectively nail. That's all it is, it's fingernail.' Getting close to one rhino, he adds: 'This is where the horn belongs, on a live rhino, and that's where it should stay.' Elsewhere, in stirring scenes filmed at a heavily guarded ivory facility in Tanzania in 2018, where 43,000 tusks with a street value of 50million have been impounded, the father-of-three becomes visibly upset over fears for the future of elephants and rhinos. ADVERTISEMENT The royal says: 'It's a mind-blowing number of tusks, it really is. You can't get your head around it.' He also shows anguish over the rhino, which is facing extinction after being hunted for their horns which are used in some cultures for medicine. In other scenes, the Duke says he feels it is his 'duty' to leave the planet in a stronger position for future generations. In Pakistan's Hindu Kush mountains, the duke and his wife saw first hand the effects of climate change on glaciers which are melting at record speeds William says he wants to follow in the footsteps of Prince Charles and the Duke of Edinburgh who he said were 'ahead of their time' so he didn't let his children down. The duke also says the coronavirus crisis had given everyone a greater appreciation of the natural world. He adds: 'If there's any ray of light from this, it is that it allows us to take stock and to refocus our priorities.' The duke calls on humanity to 'speed the pace up' and tackle the growing environmental threat to the planet. Speaking in the new documentary, William suggests he expects to be criticised for his views, saying: 'Someone has to put their head above the parapet and say, I care about this.' And he highlights how the younger generation - who are typified by the teenage climate change activist Greta Thunberg - are pushing for change and action on the issue. Later William is visibly moved as he visits a heavily guarded secure ivory store in Tanzania where 43,000 tusks with a street value of 50 million have been impounded The future king says in the film, which will be screened next Monday: 'People might see them and think it's a big tank, a big hulk of an animal, with a big horn, but they are incredibly vulnerable' The ITV documentary followed the father-of-three (pictured) around the world as he embarked on a mission to help stop climate change William has been filmed over the past two years in the UK and countries such as Pakistan and Tanzania for the ITV documentary Prince William: A Planet For Us All, which charts his journey from passionate conservationist to wanting to play a greater global leadership role on the environment. ADVERTISEMENT In Pakistan's Hindu Kush mountains, the duke and his wife saw first hand the effects of climate change on glaciers which are melting at record speeds. During the official tour last October, William told the documentary: 'It's a huge environmental and humanitarian disaster. 'And yet, we still don't seem to be picking up the pace and understanding it quick enough. And I think the young are really getting it. The documentary charted Prince William's (pictured) journey from passionate conservationist to wanting to play a greater global leadership role on the environment 'And the younger generation are really wanting more and more people to do stuff and want more action. 'And we've got to speed the pace up. We've got to get on top of it and we need to be more vocal and more educational about what's going on.' In the film, the duke pays tribute to his grandfather the Duke of Edinburgh and father the Prince of Wales for their work supporting the natural world. He says: 'My grandfather, my father have been in environmental work for many years. 'My grandfather's well ahead of his time. My father, ahead of his time. And I really want to make sure that, in 20 years, George doesn't turn round and say, 'are you ahead of your time?' Because if he does, we're too late.' ADVERTISEMENT Prince William: A Planet for Us All, tonight ITV, 9pm AMHERST, Va., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Voters in four states announced today the filing of federal lawsuits as part of a growing campaign to block cities and counties from the alleged misuse of $250 million donated by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, issued in "grants" from the Center for Technology and Civic Life (CTCL) to influence the outcome of the election on November 3. The new lawsuits allege that local governments, with the support of Zuckerberg and CTCL, are usurping the role of state governments in deciding the funding priorities for election spending, and demonstrate that private funds cannot be used to gain an undue advantage in these cities and counties in presidential battleground states and selectively targeted U.S. Senate and House races. "Privatizing the management of elections undermines the integrity of our elections because private donors may dictate where and how hundreds of millions of dollars will be managed in these states," said Phill Kline, Director of the Amistad Project of the Thomas More Society, which is supporting the litigation by the plaintiffs. "Private interests do not have to operate with the same transparency and political accountability as government and this lack of transparency allows secret and selective deals to emphasize voter turnout that benefits a select party or candidate while making it harder for others to vote. The purchasing of local election offices by billionaires, if allowed, will open an 'arms race' between other vested and partisan interests to pour monies into select government coffers to direct government activity. Government must not be involved in favoring any private interest or any partisan objective in the management of elections," Kline continued. Election management is a core function of government and the influx of private money undermines local government integrity. CTCL is determining the priorities for where the money is going and it appears that they are selecting key Democratic areas in critical elections. "The person who holds the purse is the person who holds the power," Kline added. Kline went on to say that, "It's like having private interests stuffing money into the pockets of the umpire before he calls the first ball or strike. If Mr. Zuckerberg wants to help government, he should give the monies to state legislatures as lawmakers are charged by the United States Constitution, federal law, and state law with the management of elections and the allocation of resources." The plaintiffs in the four states include the Georgia Voters Alliance, the Iowa Voters Alliance, the South Carolina Voters Alliance, and True the Vote along with individual voters in the State of Texas. These lawsuits follow the filing of similar complaints last week in the states of Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. In Dallas, Texas alone, CTCL is spending $15,000,000, a Democratic-heavy city where Hillary Clinton won 60% of the vote. In Atlanta, Georgia, where Clinton won over 68% of the vote, CTCL is spending $6,000,000. In Iowa, CTCL is targeting two of the six counties where Clinton won, and in Charleston, South Carolina, CTCL is targeting areas to boost only Democratic turnout in competitive U.S. House and Senate races. Government spending private monies to turn out a target voter demographic is the opposite side of the same coin as government targeting a demographic to suppress the vote. Moreover, the private provision of millions of dollars to local governments to assist in voter turnout in Democratic strongholds is occurring at the same time that many governors are reducing in-person voting opportunities claiming the threat of COVID-19 in areas traditionally carried by Republican candidates. In the 17 cities and counties that have received the largest "grants" from CTCL, totaling more than $51,000,000 combined, Clinton won by an average of over 60% of the vote in 2016 and only one grant, of just under $300,000 was given to the only GOP-carried county in the top 17. CTCL is a left-leaning election activist group pushing major government voting initiatives in Democratic strongholds, which raises alarms about the integrity of the November election and demonstrates a present danger in allowing private groups to influence elections. The group boasts that its major funding sources include Google and Facebook, and the group just recently received a contribution of $250 million from billionaire Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg and his wife. For more information on this and related issues, go to: got-freedom.org. County CTCL Grant Clinton Trump D Dallas County, TX $15,130,433 60.22% 30.44% D Philadelphia, PA $10,000,000 84.30% 15.32% D Fulton, GA $6,000,000 68.89% 27.40% D Cobb, GA $5,600,000 48.89% 46.69% D Wayne County, MI $3,512,000 96.83% 2.18% D Delaware, PA $2,200,000 65% 35% D Bexar, TX $1,900,000 54.19% 40.76% D Cameroon, TX $1,800,000 64.60% 32.10% D Hinds, MS $1,500,000 71.39% 26.69% D Centre, PA $863,828 48.71% 46.32% D Richland, SC $730,000 64.01% 31.10% D Charleston, SC $695,000 50.64% 42.78% D Lucas, OH $544,624 56.10% 38.32% D Hays, TX $289,000 49.50% 50.40% R Onondaga, NY $286,960 53.89% 40.13% D Scott, IA $286,870 47.50% 46% D Blackhawk, IA $267,500 50.60% 43.30% D Total: $51,606,215 60.90% 34.99% SOURCE Amistad Project A negligee-wearing transvestite has been found guilty of murdering his 86-year-old mother by stabbing her in the heart with a sword and then decapitating her. Philip Tarver, 47, from Woking in Surrey, has been found guilty at the Old Bailey of the murder of his mother Angela Tarver. He was also found guilty of making threats to kill his father Colin Tarver, 84. The killer, who had never moved out of the family home and was still being given pocket money, decapitated his mother, then cut off her finger and put it in the kettle on December 19. When police arrived, he emerged from the detached 600,000 family home waving a small Union Jack flag and announced: 'I surrender.' He added: 'I am sorry for killing her. F*****g hell, I must repent for my sins.' Philip Tarver, 47, has been found guilty of murdering his 86-year-old mother, Angela (pictured), by stabbing her in the heart with a sword and then decapitating her Despite his confession, Tarver tried to blame his father who listened to his son's allegations at the back of the court with his head in his hands. Tarver had a history of cocaine and cannabis use, but psychiatric tests revealed he was responsible for his actions. He denied murder but he was unanimously convicted of murder by the jury after 12 hours and 43 minutes deliberation. Tarver shook his head after the jury's verdict was read out and was later seen weeping in the dock. He is due to be sentenced on October 8. He was also found guilty of making threats to kill his father Colin Tarver, 84. Pictured: Police at the scene Tarver claimed he was qualified as a watch repairer and clock maker and also worked as a delivery driver but recently had concentrated on song writing without success. He drank a bottle of vodka and six beers the night before the killing and the following morning he came down the stairs wearing a women's nightdress and began to 'spring clean'. He pulled the television wires from the wall, annoying his father because Mr and Mrs Tarver wanted to watch Bargain Hunt. After he plugged the TV back in, Mr Tarver heard a scream from the kitchen where his wife had been drinking a cup of tea. 'He heard a short, sharp scream, and ran from where he was into the dining room,' said prosecutor Alexandra Healy. 'He could see that the chair that Angela was sitting on was knocked over. He could see his wife's feet were resting on that knocked over chair and they were not moving. 'He could tell she was laying on her back. Suddenly, the defendant appeared in front of him holding an ornamental sword that he had owned for sometime. 'He was holding the sword out in front of him, pointing it towards Colin Tarver. 'He said something to the effect of: "I am going to kill you" or "I have to kill you". Tarver had previously told police he was putting his frail mother 'out of her misery' when he stabbed her. Pictured: A forensic officer at the scene 'He had a demented look in his eyes which he said were bulging.' The father told the court: 'Once I was in the dining room I could see the chair Angela was sitting on had gone over and all I could see were her legs resting on the chair. 'They weren't moving. Motionless. She was on her back. Philip was standing in the hall. 'I noticed he was holding a sword and it was covered in blood.' He added: 'I thought he was going to kill me. When he said he had to kill me. I said why? Tarver had previously told police he was putting his frail mother 'out of her misery' when he stabbed her. He then put her head in the freezer because he 'couldn't bear to look at her,' the Old Bailey heard. Tarver, who was wearing a see-through negligee at the time of the murder, sliced off the finger on which his mother wore her wedding and maternity rings and put it in the kettle, prosecutors claim. The court heard he then turned on his father Colin Tarver with a 'demented look' in his eyes and threatened to kill him during the rampage in their family home. But the pensioner managed to wrestle the weapon away from his son and call the police, the Old Bailey was told. Tarver, who was wearing a see-through negligee at the time of the murder, sliced off the finger on which his mother wore her wedding and maternity rings and put it in the kettle, prosecutors claim. Pictured: Police cordon off an area near to the house Mrs Tarver had a stroke in 1991 which left her struggling to speak and using a Zimmer frame to help with her mobility. Tarver later told police he wanted to 'put her out of her misery' after he came downstairs and thought she looked 'half-dead' as she sat at the kitchen table, the court heard. The killer said to officers after his arrest that he had struggled with his sexuality since he was five and dressed in women's clothing, the court heard. Tarver said he greeted his father wearing the see-through negligee earlier in the morning to which Mr Tarver responded: 'Oh no, you're dressed like that again,' jurors were told. Grey-haired and bespectacled Colin Tarver appeared in the witness box on Thursday wearing a black suit as his son sat in the dock. Giving evidence the widower said his late wife had mainly used written notes to communicate with people after suffering a 'severe' stroke when she was in her 50s. Tarver shock his head after the jury's verdict was read out and was later seen weeping in the dock. He is due to be sentenced on October 8. Pictured: Old Bailey Ms Healy asked: 'Had he always lived with you?' 'Yes most of the time he lived with us. Sometimes he worked away from home and didn't live in the house,' Mr Tarver said. 'When Philip was 18 did Mrs Tarver suffer a severe stroke?' Ms Healy asked. 'Yes,' the widower said. 'Did that affect her ability to speak?' the prosecutor asked. 'Yes, she couldn't really speak at all. She tried to answer things but it was difficult to communicate. 'She would write notes and eventually you would understand what she was getting at,' Mr Tarver said. 'So she could understand you but had huge difficulty communicating orally to people?' the QC said. 'That's right, yes,' the father replied. The prosecutor told jurors they would consider evidence about an acute psychotic episode allegedly experienced by Tarver during the attack. Ms Healy said the question was whether it had been triggered by his own use of cannabis, or was an 'independent psychotic episode which coincidentally developed against a background of cannabis and cocaine use.' Tarver allegedly made a series of 'significant' comments and ranted about needing to 'make sure' his mother was dead while he was in police custody. Ms Healy said: 'He said: "She's in the freezer, she's in bits." He's blinking repeatedly with his eyes and he says "put a patch over my left eye, the f***ers been possessed. I need a drink. Holy water of course. Whiskey, just Irish whiskey." 'He said: "I had a moment of madness." 'He described struggling with his sexuality since the age of five and he dressed in women's clothes but his father didn't mind. 'He described his mother sitting at the kitchen table and looking half dead so he said he put her out of her misery. 'He said he stabbed her in the heart and he had to make sure she was dead. He said it was all a blur and hazy and he was trying to process what had happened. 'He said his dad said: "Oh no you're dressed like that again." He said his dad was used to seeing him dressed in women's clothing. 'He saw his mum still in the kitchen staring blankly at a wall not looking at it. She didn't acknowledge him - he got a knife, he pushed her onto the floor and stabbed her in the heart. He then said he cut her head off with a knife to make sure she was dead. 'He said he was very confused at the time and still doesn't know what happened. 'He was described as shaking with his head in his hand and sobbing saying: "What have I done?" Asked why he put her head in the freezer, Tarver allegedly replied: 'I couldn't bear to look at her so I had to get the head away from me.' Ms Healy added: 'A scabbard was present on the floor of the dining room. Two rings had been identified in the washing up bowl in the kitchen. 'The stab wound to the left chest wall, this was the fatal injury.' Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 15:39:10|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close MEHTARLAM, Afghanistan, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- At least eight people were killed and 28 others wounded after a car bomb blast rattled Mehtarlam city, capital of Afghanistan's eastern Laghman province on Monday, local police confirmed. "The explosion occurred roughly at 10:00 a.m. local time. The blast targeted the convoy of provincial governor driving along a road. The governor escaped the attack, but pedestrians and policemen guarding the convoy were affected," said a police officer who requested anonymity. Shafi Afghanyar, a provincial police spokesman, told Xinhua that six pedestrians were killed and 26 civilians were wounded. "Casualties were shifted by ambulances, police and private vehicles to a provincial hospital. Some of the wounded were in critical condition." "Two policemen of the convoy were killed and two others wounded," he said. Security forces have cordoned off the area for precautionary measures. The blast sent a column of thick smoke into the sky and triggered panic, the police officer said, adding that the blast also caused destruction in the city, 90 km east of the country's capital, Kabul. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack yet. Enditem Storm Alex ravages northern Italy and south of France. The body of a woman has washed up in Italy's north-western region of Liguria on the morning of 5 October, reports Italian news agency ANSA. The discovery, off the coast of Borgo Prino near Imperia, comes after the bodies of five men were washed up between Ventimiglia and S. Stefano al Mare near the French border, following a powerful storm that devastated north Italy and southern France. There are no people listed as missing in the Liguria region, reports ANSA, meaning the bodies discovered are likely to be among those declared missing in France. Rescue operations continue in the areas of Italy and France affected by Storm Alex, after rivers burst their banks and swept away bridges and roads, with villages cut off by landslides and severe flooding. The president of the Liguria region, Giovanni Toti, has requested a state of disaster, while in the neighbouring Piemonte region the bell-tower of a 16th-century church in Alessandrino collapsed in the torrential rain. The area had been cordoned off in advance and there were no injuries reported. Photo AFP Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2021. NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In recognition of International Day of the Girl, VOW To End Child Marriage (VOW) the global initiative that gives couples, companies and the wedding industry the power to end child marriage is launching "Take the #VowForGirls." This inspirational new campaign unites young female activists from around the world to stand up for the rights of girls and to call for an end to child marriage, especially amid the global pandemic. "COVID-19 disproportionally affects the most vulnerable among us, keeping girls out of school and increasing poverty," said Mabel van Oranje, founder and board chair of VOW. "As a consequence, child marriage is on the rise, eroding progress that has been made. Innocent girls are deprived of a healthy and happy future. We must act urgently girls around the world can't wait." "Take the #VowForGirls" brings together thirteen leading activists across multiple issues from racial justice and immigration to youth rights to help raise funds for programs providing critical resources to girls at risk of child marriage. Campaign participants include: Aranya Johar , the youngest member of the G7's Gender Equality Advisory Council , the youngest member of the G7's Gender Equality Advisory Council Brittany Packnett Cunningham , award-winning activist, 2020 Fellow at Harvard's Institute of Politics and member of President Obama's 21st Century Policing Task Force , award-winning activist, 2020 Fellow at Institute of Politics and member of President Obama's 21st Century Policing Task Force Sara Mora , co-president of Women's March Youth Empower and founder of Who Is Our 2020 (A full list of the activists supporting "Take the #VowForGirls" can be found here .) The campaign video a nod to a traditional wedding vow encourages viewers to raise their hand and "Take the #VowForGirls." From October 5-11, for every post, like, comment and share using #VowForGirls, VOW brand partners Crate and Barrel and Sundance Now will donate $1 to VOW, up to $85,000. All of the money raised by VOW is invested in grassroots efforts to end child marriage through the Girls First Fund. These grants support programs that work directly with girls and their communities. Ninety percent of the grants awarded through the Girls First Fund are to young women and women-led organizations. To date, grants have supported 150 community-based organizations. "If you care about justice, you should care about girls. And if you care about girls, you should care about the work of VOW to end child marriage and elevate it as a fundamental issue," said Darren Walker, president of the Ford Foundation and co-founder of VOW. "We want girls to grow up in a world that values them, where they are free from the injustice and harm caused by early marriage." Now entering its third year, VOW continues to deliver on its mission of mobilizing brands and the wedding industry to join the movement to end child marriage. New partners Aisle Planner, Justin Alexander, Miriam de Ungria, Saint Mae and Sundance Now join VOW's family of over a dozen brands including Crate and Barrel, The Knot and The Peninsula Hotels. VOW brand partners generously commit to donating a portion of profits from products, services, experiences and gift registries to help end child marriage. New VOW products include: The Le Creuset Fig Signature collection from Crate and Barrel, from which 2% of every item sold after October 1 will be donated to VOW will be donated to VOW The "Empower" candle from Crate and Barrel, from which $10 from every candle sold will be donated to VOW from every candle sold will be donated to VOW The "I Don't" ring from Miriam de Ungria, where 100% of proceeds from each ring is donated to VOW 10% of the first month of every new Aisle Planner subscription starting in October through December 2020 goes to VOW goes to VOW The "Feel-Good Collection" from Sundance Now, where $2 from every subscription using the code VOW through 2020 is donated to VOW from every subscription using the code VOW through 2020 is donated to VOW The entire collection from Saint Mae, where 3% of the purchase price for every online sale is donated to VOW $10 donation and up to $10 donation match for every guest of the Justin Alexander Luxury Group Pre-Show Event at New York Bridal Fashion Week (A complete list of VOW partners and products can be found here .) "With child marriage affecting more than 12 million girls each year and growing as a result of COVID-19, our diverse array of partners and advocates are critical to ensure that every girl is able to choose if, when and whom she marries," said VOW CEO Clay Dunn. "I'm proud to see our partners from youth activists and major brands to celebrities, wedding professionals and couples who have aligned their wedding registries with VOW joining together to take the vow to end child marriage." Please visit www.VOWtoEndChildMarriage.org and follow along at #VowForGirls to learn more about VOW. About VOW To End Child Marriage VOW gives couples, companies and the public the power to help end child marriage. We believe every girl has the right to a safe and healthy future including the right to choose if, when and whom to marry. 100% of the funds raised support grassroots efforts around the globe working to ensure girls can create their own futures. QUOTES FROM VOW BRAND PARTNERS "As a female-founded business centered in the wedding industry, Aisle Planner believes that marriage is a person's intimate and exclusive expression of their love for another, and that expression can only be made by choice. We're honored to partner with VOW to raise awareness of the needs and challenges girls face around the world, and work together to ensure that every girl has the right to say "I do!" when, and only when, she wants." Trevor Wessman-Lavelle, president, Aisle Planner "As we're just starting to see the many ways the pandemic has set back gender equality worldwide, this year it's more important than ever to lift up girls and women. We're proud to partner with VOW to support their work." Caitlin Kawaguchi, director, Bird + Stone "We're proud to be partnering once again with VOW. At Justin Alexander, we believe in empowering and celebrating women and girls around the world and supporting their right to choose if, when and whom to marry. In time for both International Day of the Girl and New York Bridal Fashion Week, we are encouraging our bridal community to join us in making a difference." Justin Warshaw, CEO, Justin Alexander "Girls all over the world should marry the person they love, but unfortunately not all girls are free to make their own decisions. I'm excited to partner with VOW on International Day of the Girl to introduce the 'I Don't' ring to help end child marriage." Miriam de Ungria, founder, MdeU Design "When one girl is for sale, all girls suffer. Society suffers. Prinkshop supports VOW for the lifesaving work they do to END the long, wrong history of selling our girls." Pamela Bell, founder, prinkshop "At Saint Mae, our mission is to not only provide you with the raddest jewels out there, but to give back to the charities we stand behind, making the world a better place one purchase at a time. We're so excited to have partnered with VOW." Carli Gerard, founder, Saint Mae "As a company that thrives on celebrating couples who find love, we're also committed to doing our part to support girls who have been deprived of that choice. VOW helps shine a light on this travesty and allows us to contribute to a cause that is near and dear to us." Ari and Corina Madilian, founders, Single Stone "Sundance Now is honored to be an official VOW partner for their International Day of the Girl campaign and help spotlight these incredible voices advocating for change. We strongly believe in VOW's mission and are continually working to amplify all voices through our programming." Nada Arnot, general manager, Sundance Now "We believe your wedding day should be one of the happiest days of your life, and who you marry and how you marry is a personal choice. Child marriage is not a decision a girl gets to make. As the leading wedding planning brand, The Knot has the largest platform, and with that, the right opportunity to spread awareness and make real change to end child marriage." Dhanusha Sivajee, CMO, The Knot Worldwide "We're excited to enter the second year of our charity collaboration with VOW, in which we have united our like-minded mission for women's rights, girls' rights and gender equality. On International Day of the Girl, and every day, we're celebrating the achievements made for equality while also recognizing the advancements left to be made." Hannah Skvarla, CEO + co-founder, The Little Market "At The Peninsula, we take pride in helping our guests celebrate each day and make every moment special. The Peninsula Hotels in New York, Chicago and Beverly Hills are proud to partner with VOW to end child marriage. We're committed to helping girls exercise their rights so they too can celebrate each day and make each moment a special one." Maria Zec, regional vice president and general manager, The Peninsula Chicago Media Contacts: Stef Goodsell Glover Park Group [email protected] 646.495.2705 James Porter VOW To End Child Marriage [email protected] SOURCE VOW Related Links http://www.VOWtoEndChildMarriage.org Among the losses caused by from the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic this summer were internships students had secured in the hopes of building their resumes, gaining experience in their fields of study and earning a little bit of money. The Alma College Career and Personal Development team in the Center for Student Opportunity (CSO) moved quickly to create some new opportunities for students whose internships had been canceled by launching a micro-internship initiative. A micro-internship is a short term, professional project that is completed remotely. The PlaidWorks Micro-internship Initiative provides grants to students to complete 20 to 40-hour remote service projects for non-profit and civic organizations. Students completing a PlaidWorks micro-internship gain work experience and explore career paths, while nonprofit host organizations benefit from skilled assistance with projects that support their mission. The micro-internship initiative has successfully matched students with time and talent to share with nonprofit organizations who can put their skills to work to complete meaningful professional projects, said Carla Jensen, the director of career and personal development at the CSO. Both the students and the host organizations have been really positive about the impact of this program. As part of the micro-internship program, students were given grants of either $250 or $500, by Alma College, to work with nonprofits for a total of either 20 or 40 hours over the summer. Students dont receive college credit for the program, but they earn a new line on their resume and the opportunity to make connections with employers that otherwise wouldnt have happened. The United Way of Gratiot and Isabella Counties is one host organization. The United Way hosted two Alma College students for micro-internships this summer; one did a research project on the ways nonprofits can raise money in virtual settings and the second student explored how volunteers could spend their time in virtual settings. Eli Hall, the organizations director of development, said the two student interns, Sierra Douglas, of Wyandotte, and Jordan Jackson, of Redford, were bright, hard-working and really creative, and that the micro-internship program fit well with United Ways structure. My primary job is fundraising, which means Im often going around the community giving presentations. I dont necessarily have the ability to supervise a student intern, which really limits what we can offer them, Hall said. The design of this program allows students to work without direct supervision, and they came up with some brilliant ideas that we are going to try to implement in the future. We would love to do something like this again. Micro-internships have been growing in popularity in recent years, but have really taken off in recent months in response to pandemic-related restrictions, Jensen said. The college reached out to alumni and nonprofit organizations in the community in order to find the right host organizations to provide meaningful work and service experiences to student micro-interns. They found one such organization in the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) Office of Educator Excellence where Krista Ried 94, president of the Alma College Alumni Board, works as the supervisor of professional educator certification. Ried said while her office doesnt have the capacity to take on a full-time student intern, she was intrigued to hear about the micro-internship program. We havent had an intern in a long time, and there a lot of projects where we could use help. Ried said. The micro-internship really struck a chord with me because I knew there were talented students at Alma who could work remotely and help us out quite a bit. Rieds office hosted Asia Patterson 21, a double major in Spanish and new media studies, for work during the summer. A native of Ludington, Patterson said there arent many internship opportunities in her hometown that are relevant to her courses of study at Alma. But at the MDE, Patterson was able to complete a project that involved helping K-12 teachers learn how to update their necessary certifications online through video tutorials posted on YouTube. Patterson felt it was preparation for what awaits her after college. It was a good opportunity to learn about what the professional world is really like and weigh it against my expectations, she said. I found out how people at the MDE balance out productivity with creativity and I feel like thats important to know as I learn about workplace behavior. Its good to feel comfortable at work. Ried said Patterson and other students from Alma would be welcome to come to the MDE again in the future. We had a great experience, she said. Asia was great about following up and keeping track of things. I definitely hope the micro-internship program continues. A tangerine has become the latest unintended prop to pop in a news broadcast (John Stillwell/PA) A reporter who was peeling a tangerine for a child as she appeared on a TV news broadcast says it is a sign that being a working parent is becoming more accepted. Anna Holligan featured on a segment on BBC World News comparing the Covid-19 situation in different locations around Europe. Speaking from the Hague, Ms Holligan updated viewers about the rising infection rate in the Netherlands while attending to a youngster in a cargo bike. Ok, didnt realise I was actually in vision while peeling a Covid19 has normalized working parenthood. Live TV request clashed with school run. In the past I might have said no, this time I tried to juggle #workingmum #WFH https://t.co/Zqja2ts8WB anna holligan (@annaholligan) October 5, 2020 After the clip was put online, foreign correspondent Ms Holligan said it was not something she would have felt as comfortable doing before lockdown. She tweeted: Ok, didnt realise I was actually in vision while peeling a (tangerine). Covid19 has normalized working parenthood. Live TV request clashed with school run. In the past I might have said no, this time I tried to juggle #workingmum #WFH. The sight of news contributors home and professional lives colliding has become increasingly common since lockdown as many are required to juggle the competing demands of parenthood and working life. Last month, Tory MP Tom Tugendhat was interrupted twice by his children during an interview with Sky News, with his son Adam hoping to play with face paints. And in July, Dr Clare Wenhams daughter Scarlett got advice from BBC presenter Christian Fraser about where a picture of a unicorn should go as her mum tried to talk about the effects of local lockdowns. Mumbai: After remaining shut for nearly six months, hotels, food courts, restaurants, and bars in Maharashtra resumed their services on Monday (October 5). However, the services are resuming with fifty per cent capacity from as per the state government's instruction. A separate Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was issued by the tourism department for precautions to be taken while operating these establishments, an official release said. The Maharashtra state government guidelines stated the following: 1) Thermal screening of the customers to be done at the entry point for coronavirus symptoms such as high temperature, cough, and cold. Only asymptomatic customers will be allowed inside. 2) Putting on face masks will be mandatory, except while eating. 3) Social distancing must be followed while waiting for service. 4) Consent should be obtained from visitors for sharing their details with administrative and health authorities for contact-tracing related activities, the guidelines said. 5) Hand sanitizers must be made available, and payment through digital mode should be encouraged while precautions should be taken during cash transactions. 6) Washrooms and hand-wash areas must be cleaned regularly. Plexiglass screens or similar barriers must be erected at counters where interactions with customers occur frequently, the guidelines said. 8) CCTV cameras on the premises must be fully functional and only cooked food should be included in the menu and raw or cold food like salads should be avoided. 9) Furniture should be disinfected at a regular interval. Notably, Maharashtra is the worst-hit state due to coronavirus in India. The total cases of coronavirus stand at 14,43,409 as per the Ministry of Health data on Monday. Meanwhile, the coronavirus case hold in India crossed the 66-lakh mark on Monday (October 5, 2020) with 74,442 new cases reported in the last 24 hours. The total coronavirus cases in India stand at 66,23,816 including 9,34,427 active cases, 55,86,704 cured/discharged/migrated cases as per the Ministry of Health and family welfare. Despite the headlines painting them as environmental terrorists, dairy farmers shouldnt despair. Offering words of comfort to our most profitable farmers might sound a bit rich, given the dire unviability of huge swathes of the rest of the sector. But the milk business has a major PR problem. The dirty dairy tag invented by disgruntled New Zealand beef farmers has travelled halfway around the world to settle in over its Irish equivalent like a dark, wet cloud. Dairying is the final bastion of viable agricultural activity available to thousands of farmers across all regions, so this issue poses a serious threat to our rural economy. Rather than wringing hands over how they can spin a better story, dairy farmers should be focusing on how to fix the problem. Because dairy farms are in almost every parish, they are an unavoidably huge interface with the natural environment. When the contractor arrives to spread fertiliser, it has an impact on flora and fauna above and below the soil. When a cow calves, that triggers a chain of events that will also leave their mark on the environment. Whether wonky septic tanks or bankrupt town councils or negligent beef farmers are also contributing to the rising pollution in our water and air is beside the point. So heres five things that dairy farmers shouldnt lose sight of over the weeks, months and years ahead if they want to retain public support and financial viability. There is lots of help out there to minimise nutrient loss from your farm. It might have an awful name, but the Agricultural Sustainability Support and Advisory Programme (ASSAP) is a perfect example, with confidential visits by trained experts proving that an outside pair of eyes can more easily see the pollution flash points on a farm. The fixes dont cost the earth. The ASSAP data shows that it is still the basic stuff that is causing problems. Fencing cattle off from being able to drink in streams and rivers, rigidly adhering to the required buffer strips when spreading fertiliser and slurry, ensuring that dirty laneways dont drain straight into the nearest ditch are all obvious, but still all-too-common examples of what needs to be standard on farms. Better utilisation of nutrients is a win-win. While lecturing contractors about where the drains are and spending hours calculating nutrient management plans is a pain, the flip side is that figuring out ways to waste less nutrients is also a way to waste less money. The average nitrogen utilisation on Irish farms is about 25pc. That figure is closer to 37pc on Teagasc research farms, proving that there is massive scope in this regard. The average nitrogen utilisation on Irish farms is about 25pc. That figure is closer to 37pc on Teagasc research farms, proving that there is massive scope in this regard. Sustainable intensification is possible. This phrase gets slagged off by environmentalists, who scoff at the notion that more can be done with less, but the graphic attached here shows how Teagasc succeeded in increasing output per hectare by about 10pc while decreasing fertiliser usage by 25pc. This had a direct impact on groundwater, halving the levels of nitrogen. Expand Close Graph 1 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Graph 1 Dairy profits allow farmers to aim high. Earning up to 1,000 per acre is great, but the most intensive operators are perhaps belatedly realising that theres no free lunches in this world. Serious reinvestment in bomb-proof slurry storage facilities that can cope with the worst of wet winters, paying the few euro extra for the protected urea, and making time to stay up-to-date and on the ball regarding best practice all cost money. The choice is there: invest in a sustainable future for dairying, or milk it dry now and wreck the business and the planet in the process. The fundamentals are still in Irelands favour. We still have a natural advantage over most of the rest of the planet for producing milk, courtesy of our climates ability to feed stock outdoors for most of the year. The holy grail is to combine this competitive advantage with a system that doesnt add to pollution of our waterways or air. It can be done, but it wont happen by accident. Darragh McCullough runs a mixed farm enterprise in Meath www.elmgrovefarm.ie The aggression of Azerbaijan against Artsakh [(Nagorno-Karabakh)] with the support of Turkey and the involvement of the foreign terrorist fighters has been accompanied by the campaign of fake news and disinformation which goes beyond the limits of common sense. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia has noted this in a statement it released Monday morning Having failed to achieve any success in the battlefield, the Azerbaijani side on one hand speaks about its imaginary gains, and on the other hand spreads fake news on the shelling of the Azerbaijani settlements by Armenia. The recent disinformation about the alleged strikes from the territory of Armenia to the Azerbaijani settlements is case in point. The aim of this disinformation campaign is to cover up the massive shelling of the large settlements of Nagorno-Karabakh by Azerbaijan since the first day of the war, which resulted in many losses among the civil population, while serious damage was inflicted upon the essential civilian infrastructure. With the spread of such fake news Azerbaijan also prepares grounds for the continuation of its criminal policy and for the extension of the geography of the war. Each provocation by the Azerbaijani side will receive an adequate response from the Republic of Armenia, the Armenian MFA statement also reads. CARLINVILLE Shawn Davis, President & CEO of CNB Bank & Trust, , N.A, headquartered in Carlinville, has been elected chairman of the Community Bankers Association of Illinois (CBAI) during the associations annual business meeting held virtually Sept. 25. As chairman, Davis serves on the CBAI board of directors, handles the overall affairs of the association in conjunction with the first and second vice chairman, and serves on its strategic planning and finance committees. He also serves on the Community BancService Corporation board. Church elder, family suffer daily harassment by officials in China Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment The communist government of China is harassing and keeping an eye on Li Yingqiang, an elder of the persecuted Early Rain Covenant Church in Sichuan province, since he returned with his family last month to experience the hardship and grace together with his fellow brothers and sisters. Li, a leader of ERCC, one of Chinas largest unregistered churches, had to leave Sichuan last August due to threats, but he decided to return to a newly rented apartment last month. Soon after their arrival, the local police came to verify their legal residence and six public security officers visited and repeatedly told him he was not welcome in Chengdu city, according to the U.S.-based persecution watchdog International Christian Concern. Li was told he and his family would now face heightened surveillance and harassment and they may be deprived of the custody of their children. Last Monday, the sub-district office set up a station in his community to keep an eye on his family and no one was allowed to visit their residence. When he brought his young children to a nearby park, they were closely followed, ICC reported. Two days later, Li waved down a taxi for an outing with his family but the taxi driver was sent away by the person surveilling him. Li had to cancel the outing. The 5,000-member Early Rain Covenant Church was first raided during a Sunday evening service in December 2018 after authorities claimed it violated religious regulations because it was not registered with the government. Authorities broke down the doors of church members and leaders homes, arresting more than 100 people, including Pastor Wang Yi and his wife, Jiang Rong. They ransacked and sealed the churchs properties, including offices, a kindergarten, a seminary, and a Bible college, and searched the homes of many of its members. Police also forced church members to sign a pledge not to attend the church again, and around half of the church's original membership remain under close surveillance by police. Last December, Wang was sentenced to nine years in prison on charges of subversion of power and illegal business operations. The New York Times noted earlier that Wang had become known for taking high-profile positions on politically sensitive issues, including forced abortions and the massacre that crushed the Tiananmen Square democracy movement in 1989. In April, several members of the church were arrested by the Public Security Bureau for participating in an online Easter worship service on Zoom and ordered to cease all religious activity. In May, police brought in ERCC members in charge of church activities and online services and demanded that they stop all activities, according to China Aid. Chinas Communist Party requires that Protestants worship only in churches recognized and regulated by the officially sanctioned Three-Self Patriotic Movement. Open Doors USAs World Watch List ranks China as one of the worst countries in the world when it comes to the persecution of Christians. The organization notes that all churches are perceived as a threat if they become too large, too political or invite foreign guests. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, right, and Michel Barnier, chief negotiator of the European Union for the Brexit, hold a press conference after a meeting at the Federal Foreign Office in Berlin, Germany, Monday. AP-Yonhap Germany is calling on the United Kingdom to make a big final push to agree on a trade deal with the European Union in the wake of Brexit especially since fallout from the coronavirus pandemic is already hitting the economies on both sides of the English Channel very hard. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said Monday that COVID-19 has "made an agreement even more urgent" for both sides, even though the chances to get even a basic trade deal by the end of the year are declining by the day. Britain's prime minister and the head of the EU told their chief negotiators over the weekend to get back together and push "intensively" to strike a post-Brexit trade deal before time runs out in a matter of weeks. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has set a deadline of Oct. 15, when EU leaders meet again in Brussels, while the 27-nation bloc itself said it would be feasible to negotiate until the end of the month. After Britain left the EU on Jan 31, it remains in a transition period until the end of the year to make sure trade keeps flowing. If there is no trade deal by then, many fear a cliff-edge departure would hurt the economies on both sides and put hundreds of thousands of jobs at risk due to economic uncertainty, tariffs and red tape. Germany, France, the Netherlands and Belgium stand to take a big blow if there is no deal, however rudimentary. The EU has insisted that any economic setback would be even bigger in Britain. Still Johnson has repeatedly said that Britain will thrive even if it ends the transition period without a deal. But economists disagree, saying a no-deal exit would be a heavy blow, introducing tariffs and other barriers to trade with the EU, which accounts for almost half of the U.K.'s trade. "Our door remains open for a close and ambitious partnership with Great Britain. That is and will remain our goal," said Maas. Talks have been soured by Britain's decision last month to introduce a bill that breaches the legally binding divorce agreement it struck with the bloc less than a year ago. Maas and German Chancellor Angela Merkel met with EU chief Brexit negotiator MIchel Barnier on Monday. (AP) NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Across New York City, in neighborhoods most devastated by the coronavirus, hunger is emerging as the primary concern. As the pandemic exacerbates food insecurity across these communities, the New York City Department of Probation and Neighborhood Opportunity Network (NeON) Nutrition Kitchens will partner with the Food Bank for New York City and the NYC Young Men's Initiative to distribute free family food boxes to those in need at the South Bronx and Harlem NeON Kitchen locations. Supervising Probation Officer Moika Thadal, Officers and Staff Distributes Free Food to Community Residents "Since COVID-19 was declared a pandemic in early March and with increased unemployment due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have quadrupled our capacity and are now providing food to 12,000 people each week to help meet community demands. Our staff has worked around the clock to ensure that our neighbors do not go hungry. Safety protocols have been heightened to protect staff and volunteers. I want to thank our partners at the Food Bank for NYC and Young Men's Initiative for their unyielding support; the food boxes will help an incredible number of New Yorkers," Ana M. Bermudez Esq., Commissioner. Each free family food box will include fresh produce, milk, canned, and packaged food goods. The distribution of food boxes will begin this week and continue through October 28, 2020. During this time, the NeON Nutrition Kitchens continue to provide one week of free pre-packaged groceries to New Yorkers in need in all five boroughs. "The Young Men's Initiative is proud to support the NeON Nutrition Kitchens, now more than ever, our communities need access to free, healthy food, and that's exactly what this initiative provides." Jordan Stockdale, Executive Director, Young Men's Initiative. Free family food boxes are available at the following locations: 9:00 a.m. to Noon Tuesday's - South Bronx NeON, 198 East 161 Street , South Bronx, NY 1:00 p.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday's - Harlem NeON Nutrition Kitchen (New location), Redemption Youth Opportunity Hub, 302 West 124 Street, NY, NY Living More information can be found on the NeON Nutrition Kitchens by clicking here , Food Bank for NYC by clicking here , and NYC Young Men's Initiative by clicking here . About the New York City Department of Probation The New York City Department of Probation (DOP) helps build stronger and safer communities by working with and supervising people on probation, fostering positive change in their decision-making and behavior. DOP expands opportunities for them to move out of the criminal and juvenile justice systems through meaningful education, employment, health services, family engagement, and civic participation. About the Neighborhood Opportunity Network (NeON) At the heart of the NeON is a network of partners individuals and organizations, public and private working together to improve public safety and promote people's success on probation by working with them in community-based settings. NeON staff supervises and works with those on probation and their families to promote pro-social life choices, educational achievement, career advancement, civic engagement, and more. The NeON involves communities working collaboratively to remove barriers to advancement, reduce the stigma of justice-involvement, and create solutions to local challenges. Programming available through the NeON includes NeON Arts, NeON Nutrition Kitchens, NeON Sports, NeON Summer NYC, NeON Photography, "Made in NY" Animation Project, Clothing Closets, and high-school equivalency classes. CONTACT: Candace Sandy 212.510.3720 [email protected] SOURCE New York City Department of Probation Agency has registered a fresh case based on a source information relating to assets amassed during Shivakumar's tenure as a minister in Karnataka The CBI has till now recovered Rs 50 lakh from multiple premises it has searched in a corruption case related to Congress leader DK Shivakumar, officials told PTI said on Monday. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is carrying out searches at 14 locations in Karnataka, Delhi and Maharashtra in the case that pertains to amassing of disproportionate assets, they said. The search operation may be expanded during the day, the officials said. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a fresh case against the Congress leader based on a source information from another agency. The information relates to assets amassed during Shivakumar's tenure as a minister in Karnataka, they said. Following the registration of FIR, CBI teams started searches on Monday morning at 14 locations - nine in Karnataka, four in Delhi and one in Mumbai. Sources told PTI that places that are being searched include properties of Shivakumar's brother and MP from Bengaluru Rural DK Suresh. CBI sleuths reached their residence in Bengaluru and also at Doddalahalli in Kanakapura, early this morning. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed it "raid raj" and a "Machiavellian move" by the BJP government. "The insidious game of intimidation & machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding @DKShivakumar won't deter us. CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt. But, 'Raid Raj' is their only 'Machiavellian Move'!," Surjewala said on Twitter. 2/2 Let Modi & Yeddyurappa Govts & BJPs frontal organizations i.e CBI-ED-Income Tax know that Congress workers & leaders will not be cowed down nor bow down before such devious attempts. Our resolve to fight for people & expose BJPs maladministration only becomes stronger. https://t.co/AfoJgxOsGl Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) October 5, 2020 Congress leaders have hit out at the BJP governments at the Centre and the state for the CBI searches, questioning its timing ahead of November 3 bypolls to Sira and R R Nagar Assembly segments. Earlier, Shivakumar was arrested on September 23 last year by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the money laundering case and was lodged in Tihar jail under judicial custody. He was released from the Jail on October 23 after the Delhi High Court order granted him bail. With inputs from PTI Panaji, Oct 5 : Two Russians were arrested for cultivating an indoor cannabis 'nursery' in the beach village of Mandrem in North Goa, police said on Monday. Cannabis plants weighing 2.5 kgs and Rs. 25,000 were also seized during the raid conducted by officials of the Pernem police station, police inspector Jivba Dalvi also said. The value of the plants seized has been estimated at Rs. 3.5 lakh. "The raid busted a cannabis nursery in Mandrem village in North Goa district. Two Russians have been arrested and the owner of the apartment booked," Dalvi told IANS. "During the raid, it was found that the Russian nationals had started a cannabis nursery in their flat and a suitable environment was created using tubelights, exhaust fans and other equipment, in order to facilitate proper growth of the cannabis plants," the official said. The arrested Russian nationals have been identified as Aleksei Perevalov (31) Aleksei Rebriev (41), who have been booked under the relevant sections of the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances act. Significantly, Trump has been given dexamethasone, a steroid. Doctors prescribe that drug for COVID-19 patients to combat lung damage caused by inflammation, which is one of the major ways the disease can kill patients. Experts had said previously that a decision to put Trump on the drug would be a major development. It was the second straight day of confusion and obfuscation from a White House already suffering from a credibility crisis. And it raised more doubts about whether the doctors treating the President were sharing accurate, timely information with the American public about the severity of his condition. Trump waves as he drives past supporters. Credit:AP Pressed about conflicting information he and the White House released on Saturday, Navy Commander Dr Sean Conley acknowledged that he had tried to present a rosy description of the President's condition. "I was trying to reflect the upbeat attitude that the team, the President, that his course of illness has had. Didn't want to give any information that might steer the course of illness in another direction," Conley said. "And in doing so, you know, it came off that we were trying to hide something, which wasn't necessarily true. The fact of the matter is that he's doing really well." Medical experts said Conley's revelations were hard to square with the doctor's upbeat assessment and talk of a discharge. Loading "There's a little bit of a disconnect," said Dr Steven Shapiro, chief medical and scientific officer at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre. At the same time, Trump's drive-by greeting was reminiscent of the moment in 2016 when he emerged from Trump Tower in the midst of the Access Hollywood tape scandal to greet his supporters on the street below. But this move potentially exposed several people in his security detail to COVID-19. According to CDC guidelines, "In general, transport and movement of a patient with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection outside of their room should be limited to medically essential purposes." Some Secret Service agents have expressed concern about the lackadaisical attitude towards masks and social distancing inside the White House, but there isn't much they can do, according to agents and officials who spoke to the AP. This close to the election, thousands of agents are engaged on protective duty so they can be subbed out quickly should someone test positive. Loading Concern over the drive capped a day that was focused squarely on the President's health. Asked about Conley's lack of transparency, White House aide Alyssa Farah suggested the doctors were speaking as much to the President as to the American public, saying, "When you're treating a patient, you want to project confidence, you want to lift their spirits and that was the intent." Trump's Democratic challenger, Joe Biden, pulled his attack ads off the air during Trump's hospitalisation and, on Sunday, dispatched senior aides to deliver a largely friendly message. "We are sincerely hoping that the President makes a very quick recovery, and we can see him back out on the campaign trail very soon," Biden adviser Symone Sanders said on CNN's State of the Union. Loading She added, "This is a glaring reminder that the virus is real." Biden was at home in Wilmington, Delaware, with no plans for in-person campaigning or other public appearances. He has tested negative for the virus for a third time since he was potentially exposed at last week's presidential debate and his campaign has pledged to disclose all other future test results for the 77-year-old candidate. Trump's medical team indicated that his hospital stay could end soon. "Our plan for today is to have him eat and drink, to be up out of bed as much as possible, to be mobile," Dr Brian Garibaldi said. "And if he continues to look and feel as well as he does today, our hope is that we can plan for a discharge as early as tomorrow to the White House where he can continue his treatment course." Loading More than 209,000 Americans have been killed by the virus, by far the highest number of confirmed fatalities in the world. In all, nearly 7.4 million people have been infected in the United States, and few have access to the kind of around-the-clock attention and experimental treatments as Trump. First lady Melania Trump has remained at the White House as she recovers from her own bout with the virus. Several White House officials this weekend expressed frustration with the level of transparency and public disclosure since the President announced his diagnosis early on Friday. They were particularly upset by the whiplash between Conley's rosy assessment on Saturday and Meadows' more concerned outlook. They privately acknowledge that the administration has little credibility on COVID-19 and that they have unnecessarily squandered what remains of it with the lack of clear, accurate updates on Trump's condition. Many in the White House are also shaken and scared nervous that they have been exposed to the virus and confronting the reality that what seemed like a bubble of safety has become a COVID-19 hotspot. There has been no mass directive sent to staff on how they should respond. With Trump fighting the virus, his ever-loyal No. 2 is expected to play an increasingly prominent role in the weeks ahead. He will take a leading role in campaigning around the country in the final stretch before the November 3 election, aiming to defend the President and keep his supporters energised. By Online Desk NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force is very "well positioned" to deal with any threat and very strong deployments have been made in all relevant areas considering the security scenario, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Monday, referring to the border standoff with China in eastern Ladakh. Addressing a press conference ahead of Air Force Day on October 8, Bhadauria said Chinese air power can't get the better of India's capabilities but at the same time added that there is no question of underestimating the adversary. He also said that the IAF is prepared to deal with a two-front war along the northern and western borders if such a scenario arises. "We are prepared for any conflict including for a two front war. Be rest assured that we are deployed strongly to deal with any contingency.Our position as a credible combat-ready force is vital, given the role Air Force will play towards ensuring victory in any future conflict," the IAF Chief said on the threat from China in Ladakh. The Air Chief Marshal said the IAF is "very well positioned" to deal with any action along the northern border. "Our capabilities have surprised our adversary. Induction of Rafale has given us operational edge. Emerging threats mandate us to have robust capabilities of IAF. Matrix of threat facing country is complex. Indian Air Force is transforming at a rapid pace," Bhaduria said at a virtual press conference ahead of the IAF day. "Current progress of talks is slowNot correct to say we were surprised but we never expected that Chinese would approach LAC. We (Army & Air Force) mobilised swiftly. Air Force met all the requirements of rapid mobilisation of equipment and troops," he said on the Ladakh situation. ALSO READ | LAC standoff: Next Corps Commanders meeting on October 12, to discuss on early disengagement "We are very well positioned. The next three months in Eastern Ladakh will largely depend on how the talks will progress. We hope they progress well. Currently it is slow. We see an effort to dig in (by Chinese). We have made deployment in all relevant areas; Ladakh is a small part. There is no question of underestimating adversary," Bhadauria replied on whether IAF is ready to deal with any Chinese challenge. "We've operationalised Rafales, Chinooks, Apache and integrated them with our concept of operations in record time. In next 3 yrs we'll see Rafale & LCA Mark 1 squadrons operating with full strength, along with additional MiG-29 being ordered in addition to current fleets. AMCA will be our mainstay in a decade or so. Processes have been set for sixth Generation technologies like Directed Energy, Swarm drone, Hypersonic weapons.....etc. Targetted timeline for Indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft has been set to be 2027," The IAF chief remarked while mapping out the way ahead for his forces. "Our vision is to continue to scale up our combat capability and credibility as a force to reckon through modernisation and operational training and substantially increase indigenous equipment to achieve self-reliance and strategic autonomy," he said. "We've placed our trust in Light Combat Aircraft and in next 5 years we'll commence induction of 83 LCA Mark 1As. We're supportive of DRDO and HAL's effort in their indigenous production & you'll soon see the contracts for HTT-40 and Light Combat Helicopter in this area," he added further. India and China are locked in a five-month-long bitter border standoff in eastern Ladakh that has significantly strained their ties. Both sides have held a series of diplomatic and military talks to resolve the row. However, no breakthrough has been achieved to end the standoff. The armies of the two countries are scheduled to hold a fresh round of talks on October 12 with a specific agenda of firming up a roadmap for disengagement of troops from the friction points. India has already deployed thousands of troops and heavy weaponry in the high-altitude region to deal with any eventualities. The IAF has already deployed almost all its frontline fighter jets like Sukhoi 30 MKI, Jaguar and Mirage 2000 aircraft in the key frontier air bases in eastern Ladakh and elsewhere along the Line of Actual Control. ALSO READ | Necessary to ensure stability on ground: MEA on Sino-India border standoff in eastern Ladakh The newly inducted fleet of five Rafale jets has also been carrying out sorties in eastern Ladakh. The IAF has also been carrying out night time combat air patrols over the eastern Ladakh region in an apparent message to China that it was ready to deal with any eventuality in the mountainous region. Following the last round of military talks on September 21, the two armies announced a slew of decisions including not to send more troops to the frontline, refrain from unilaterally changing the situation on the ground and avoid taking any action that may further complicate matters. The military talks were held with a specific agenda of exploring ways to implement a five-point agreement reached between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi at a meeting in Moscow on September 10 on the sidelines of a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) conclave. The pact included measures like quick disengagement of troops, avoiding action that could escalate tensions, adherence to all agreements and protocols on border management and steps to restore peace along the LAC. (With Inputs From ENS and Agencies) The majority of hospitalized coronavirus patients suffer neurological symptoms, a new study suggests. Researchers found more than 80 percent experience headaches, dizziness, muscle pain, encephalopathy also known as altered mental function. What's more, the average hospital stay for patients with these symptoms was three times longer and the risk of death rate was seven times higher. The team, from Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, says its study is the first of its kind in the US and could help identify and treat people hospitalized with COVID-19 before experiencing such symptoms. It comes as a White House doctor insisted President Donald Trump has no mental fogginess from his battle with the virus. A new study from Northwestern Medicine found that nearly one-third of hospitalized COVID-19 patients experienced encephalopathy, which is an altered mental state leaving them confused. Pictured: A nurse cares for a coronavirus patient in the ICU at Regional Medical Center in San Jose, California, May 21 For the study, published in in the Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology, the team looked at data of more than 500 patients with COVID-19 at 10 hospitals in the Northwestern Medicine health system. Data showed that 42 percent had neurological symptoms when their symptoms began and 63 percent suffered them while in the hospital. However, an astounding 82 percent said they experienced at least one symptom during the course of their illness. The most common symptoms were muscle pain, suffered by about 45 percent of patients, and headaches, which were reported by about 38 percent. Approximately one-third of patients each reported dizziness and encephalopathy, which occurs when a patients experiences an altered mental state leaving them confused. Around 16 percent had taste disorders and 11 percent reported smell disorders. Less than two percent of patients experienced severe complications such as seizures, strokes or movement disorders. After being discharged, more than two-thirds of patients with encephalopathy were unable to care for themselves at home. In comparison, the nearly 90 patients who did not develop the condition were able to take care for themselves following their discharge. Additionally, the death rate was higher among encephalopathy patients. About 22 percent with the condition die compared to three percent without it. 'We are now looking to characterize the long-term neurologic effects of COVID-19 and the cognitive outcomes in patients with COVID-19-associated encephalopathy,' said Dr Igor Koralnik, chief of neuro-infectious diseases and global neurology at Northwestern Medicine. 'We're studying this in patients who are discharged from the hospital, as well as in COVID-19 'long-haulers,' who have never been hospitalized but also suffer from a similar range of neurological problems, including brain fog. Currently, President Trump is hospitalized with coronavirus at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. However, Dr Sean Conley, Trump's physician since 2018, says Trump has not displayed any neurological side effects either from the virus or medications 'I think you've seen the videos, and now the tweets, and you'll see him shortly. You know he's back,' Conley said at a press conference on Monday. Premier Daniel Andrews has fended off concerns about human rights abuses linked to a Chinese company building a fleet of trains for Victoria, stressing the importance of local jobs from the $2.3 billion contract. Mr Andrews said that, although he did not "agree with everything that is done in every country", the government accepted assurances from train builder CRRC that it was not benefiting from exploited workers from the country's Uighur minority. Daniel Andrews unveiled the new CRRC trains at Downer's Newport facility in 2018. Credit:Justin McManus The state-owned rolling stock manufacturer was recently blacklisted by the US government due to the security risks posed by its ties to the Chinese government. It was also identified by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute in March as a beneficiary of potentially exploited Uighur labour through one of its Chinese suppliers. Mr Andrews said on Monday the government had sought assurances from a subsidiary of CRRC, CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles, that Uighurs were not part of its supply chain. The project to build Victoria's train fleet is 18 months behind schedule. Korean carmakers' vehicle sales rose 3.4 percent last month from a year earlier as robust domestic demand offset weak overseas sales amid the new coronavirus outbreak, industry data showed Monday. The five carmakers in Korea Hyundai Motor, Kia Motors, GM Korea, Renault Samsung Motors and SsangYong Motor sold a combined 678,549 vehicles in September, up from 655,968 units a year ago, according to data from the companies. Strong sales of Hyundai and Kia's recreational vehicles drove up the carmakers' overall monthly sales results, though the COVID-19 pandemic continued to weigh on consumer sentiment, the data showed. The five carmakers' domestic sales jumped 25 percent to 138,530 units in September from 110,654 a year ago. Their overseas sales fell 1 percent to 540,019 units from 545,314 during the same period as Hyundai and Kia fared better than their rivals in the world's most important U.S. automobile market last month. In September, Hyundai's sales fell 5.3 percent to 360,762 autos from 380,910, while Kia's rose 10 percent to 260,023 from 235,810 during the same period. Hyundai and Kia said they will continue to make efforts to minimize the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vehicle sales in global markets while focusing on boosting sales of sport-utility vehicles. GM Korea performed better than SsangYong Motor and Renault Samsung. Its sales jumped 90 percent on-year to 40,544 units last month from 21,393 a year ago helped by increased shipments of its SUV models. SsangYong Motor saw its sales fall 4.4 percent to 9,834 units in September due to weak exports. Its domestic sales climbed 13 percent on-year to 8,208 units last month but exports plunged 47 percent to 1,626. Renault Samsung was the worst performer last month. Its sales fell 51 percent to 7,386 units last month from 15,208 a year earlier. Its domestic sales declined 24 percent to 5,934 and exports plummeted 80 percent to 1,452 during the cited period. From January to September, the five carmakers sold a total of 4,903,445 autos, down 16 percent from 5,813,658 in the same period of last year due to the virus impact on vehicle production and sales. Hyundai and Kia, which together form the world's fifth-biggest carmaker by sales, suspended operations of their major overseas plants until late May, and overseas parent firms of the three other carmakers reduced production to control inventories amid the pandemic. Production at the five carmakers' plants has fallen short of the levels before the coronavirus hit the automobile industry early this year. (Yonhap) She referred to an aircraft investigation report that points out that while the two agencies work together at crash sites, it is the NTSB that takes the lead for investigating all fatal plane crashes and determining probable cause. An NTSB spokesman did not respond to requests for comment Sunday following release of the letter from the two congressmen. Sheriff Sheron said it could take up to a year for the NTSB to make a final determination regarding the cause of Friday's crash. He also said the on-site recovery teams expect to continue their work for another day or two as they finish excavating the plane at the main crater where impact was made. All other debris around the impact site has already been collected. Neighbors, meanwhile, were comparing notes about what they saw and heard when the crash occurred Friday afternoon. Pembroke man heard 'whining noise,' then 'big boom' as Barnes' plane crashed NTSB staff won't travel to the crash scene in part due to Covid-19. Staff travel "is being curtailed or canceled until it can be completed safely, or conducted by another means," a spokesman said. "It sounded like a bomb went off," said Amy Metz, who lives near the site with her husband and daughter. Metz said she and her daughter were home when the crash occurred. Shortly before it happened, they heard the sound of a plane flying very low, with an engine that sounded like it was cutting in and out. WARSAW, Poland (AP) Bart Staszewski felt angry and hopeless when local governments in Poland started passing resolutions last year declaring themselves to be free of "LGBT ideology. The activist and filmmaker objected to the way conservative officials were using the word ideology to describe what he considers a natural desire for people who love each other to be together. At least 100 municipalities or regions, mostly in conservative southeastern Poland, have passed declarations that vowed to keep out LGBT ideology or adopted family charters that backed heterosexual unions. I am just a normal Pole who just wants a good life with my partner and to be able to marry him one day, the 30-year-old said. Where is the ideology?" In response, he settled on a protest around the communities that are now widely referred to as LGBT-free zones," a move that has enraged Poland's conservative, nationalist government as his posts have gone viral. With Poland under mounting international criticism for its treatment of its lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki accused Staszewski of carrying out a hoax that has led some to believe that Poland has a human rights problem. Staszewski travels to the the areas involved, where he briefly attaches a yellow sign saying LGBT-FREE ZONE" next to the town sign. He posts the photos on social media, sometimes including a lesbian or gay man from the town. The signs, in four languages, have the look of military warnings. Staszewski calls it "performance art aimed at making it possible to visualize the literalness and meaning of the harmful documents. Almost 32% of Polands 38 million people live in such areas, according to Atlas of Hate, an LGBT group tracking the issue. Morawiecki singled out the activist for rebuke after 50 ambassadors to Poland and foreign representatives published an open letter of solidarity with LGBT people in Poland. Story continues He completely falsified reality," Morawiecki said. "To call it fake news would not do it justice. It was a deep fake. The term LGBT-free is sensitive because it carries an association of language used by Nazi Germany to describe areas free of Jews Judenrein or Judenfrei after they had been forced out or killed during the Holocaust. The term, however, was already being used before Staszewski began posting. A pro-government newspaper, Gazeta Polska, printed stickers last summer saying LGBT-Free Zone with a rainbow flag crossed out. The European Parliament used it in a December resolution denouncing the Polish municipalities. Representatives of Poland's conservative ruling party, Law and Justice, which have sponsored the resolutions, argue they are trying to protect families and their Christian traditions, and say they are not discriminatory because they do not ban anyone from living in the areas. To the dear ambassadors, I can only say that tolerance belongs to Polish DNA, Morawiecki said. But Staszewski and other activists say the resolutions stigmatize a minority that is already suffering from bullying, depression and homophobic violence, including attacks on pride parades. He recites the names of Polish teenagers who have died by suicide after facing homophobia. He fears Poland could follow Russia, where regional resolutions banning gay propaganda preceded a 2013 national law that Human Rights Watch calls a tool for discrimination and harassment. Poland's culture clash has been simmering for years but intensified as LGBT activists became more visible, holding more Equality Parades and demanding same-sex unions and marriage. A tolerance declaration signed by Warsaw Mayor Rafal Trzaskowski in 2019 itself mostly symbolic was a key trigger for the backlash. Another was his gay deputy, Pawel Rabiej, saying that same-sex civil unions should be introduced to pave the way for marriage rights and adoption. President Andrzej Duda made the protection of traditional families a key campaign theme during his successful re-election this summer against Trzaskowski, vowing a constitutional ban on same-sex adoptions. He called the LGBT rights movement a neo-Bolshevism group pushing an aggressive sexualization in schools. Two towns are now suing Staszewski, while a right-wing magazine has denounced him as a "professional liar." In Warsaw where he lives, he has faced angry insults by strangers in public and death treats online, but also many expressions of support. Staszewski accused Morawiecki of hypocrisy for blaming him for Polands image problem. He is using his power to spread fake news," Staszewski said. The problem is not the activists. It's the homophobic acts introduced by local governments. Two days after Morawiecki lashed out at Staszewski, he appointed a new minister of education and science, Przemyslaw Czarnek, who has said that LGBT people are not equal to normal people. Czarnek was also sued by Staszewski for accusing the 2018 Equality Parade in Lublin, which Staszewski was co-organizing, of promoting depravity. Czarnek lost and was forced to apologize then repeated his claim. Protests were held in Warsaw and Wroclaw Sunday expressing outrage that a man with his views was tapped to oversee the nations schools and universities. In recent weeks, international pressure on Poland has intensified. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared LGBT-free zones are humanity-free zones that have no place in the 27-member bloc. The Polish towns have begun losing funding from the EU and Norway, a non-EU member which contributes millions of euros in development aid for access to the bloc's common market. Two towns have reversed their resolutions. While U.S. President Donald Trump sees an ideological friend in Poland's government on issues like migration, his ambassador has issued a strong rebuke on this issue. Human rights are not an ideology, Ambassador Georgette Mosbacher tweeted, posting the letter calling for tolerance that she signed with dozens of other ambassadors. She later said Polands government is on the wrong side of history" on LGBT rights. Mosbacher said Trump and Democratic challenger Joe Biden were united on this matter, and that U.S. companies and Congress would consider Polands treatment of sexual minorities when making investment and military decisions. That was a strong warning to the ally on NATOs eastern flank that relies heavily on the U.S. for protection. Mosbacher was summoned Thursday to the Foreign Ministry, where a deputy minister told her that Poland has never persecuted sexual minorities and it "has always been on the right side of history. (Natural News) On Thursday, July 23, Sen. Tom Cotton introduced a bill banning the use of federal funds for teaching the New York Timess 1619 Project, a concept that pushes the idea that the United States was founded on slavery. Called the Saving American History Act of 2020, the bill asserts that the U.S. was founded on July 4, 1776, with the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The New York Timess 1619 Project is a racially divisive, revisionist account of history that denies the noble principles of freedom and equality on which our nation was founded, said the Senator in a press statement. Not a single cent of federal funding should go to indoctrinate young Americans with this left-wing garbage. A project with an egregious claim The Pulitzer Prize-winning 1619 Project is an ongoing project started by The New York Times Magazine in 2019 with the goal of re-examining the legacy of slavery in America. The project was timed to coincide with the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in the Virginia colony. Originally conceived by the magazine as a special issue for August 2019, the 1619 Project soon turned into a full-fledged project. It includes contributions from the newspapers writers, including essays on the history of different aspects of American life that the authors have stated are rooted in slavery and its aftermath. Currently, the project has its own broadsheet section in the newspaper as well as live events and a multiple-episode podcast series. Fact-checkers have already voiced concerns Even before Cotton introduced his bill, concerns had already been raised about the content contained within the 1619 Project. The New York Times claims that the writers contributions were deeply researched and their arguments verified by a team of fact-checkers. However, a number of historians have criticized the project, asking for corrections for inaccurate claims. Leslie M. Harris was one such historian. Harris, who actually worked as a fact-checker on the project, claimed that the authors ignored her corrections. Despite my advice, the Times published the incorrect statement about the American Revolution anyway, in Hannah-Jones introductory essay, stated Harris about the argument made by the projects principal author Nikole Hannah-Jones that the American Revolution was fought in part, to preserve slavery in North America. (Related: Report: The Ochs-Sulzberger family that owns the New York Times were slave owners.) Hannah-Jones claim has since become a lightning rod for critics, one that Harris warned would be used to discredit the work. I was concerned that critics would use the overstated claim to discredit the entire undertaking, she said in an opinion piece in Politico. So far, thats exactly what has happened. Since then, Hannah-Jones has admitted that she overstated her argument about slavery and the American Revolution in her essay. She stated that she plans to amend this argument for the book version of the project. Project already being taught in schools Despite admissions from the projects own lead author that some of its arguments were overstated, a number of schools, including those in Buffalo, N.Y.; Chicago; Newark, N.J.; and Washington D.C., have already incorporated it into their curricula. It was in part, due to this that Cotton penned his bill. According to the Republican from Arkansas who is widely seen as a presidential candidate for 2024 the entire premise of the 1619 Project is factually, historically flawed. Should his bill be passed, it would prohibit K-12 schools and school districts from using federal funds to teach the 1619 Project. America is a great and noble country founded on the proposition that all mankind is created equal, he said in an interview with the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. We have always struggled to live up to that promise, but no country has ever done more to achieve it. Despite his bill, Cotton agreed that the study of slavery and its role and impact on the development of our country was important, as it was necessary to understand America. While he admits that the practice remained legal when the country was founded the union was built in a way, as Lincoln said, to put slavery on the course to its ultimate extinction. Sources include: Breitbart.com PulitzerCenter.org NYTimes.com 1 Politico.com NYTimes.com 2 TheAtlantic.com ArkansasOnline.com DigitalHistory.UH.edu BERLIN: Germany is calling on the United Kingdom to make a big final push to agree on a trade deal with the European Union in the wake of Brexit especially since fallout from the coronavirus pandemic is already hitting the economies on both sides of the English Channel very hard. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said Monday that COVID-19 has made an agreement even more urgent for both sides, even though the chances to get even a basic trade deal by the end of the year are declining by the day. Britains prime minister and the head of the EU told their chief negotiators over the weekend to get back together and push intensively to strike a post-Brexit trade deal before time runs out in a matter of weeks. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has set a deadline of Oct. 15, when EU leaders meet again in Brussels, while the 27-nation bloc itself said it would be feasible to negotiate until the end of the month. After Britain left the EU on Jan 31, it remains in a transition period until the end of the year to make sure trade keeps flowing. If there is no trade deal by then, many fear a cliff-edge departure would hurt the economies on both sides and put hundreds of thousands of jobs at risk due to economic uncertainty, tariffs and red tape. Germany, France, the Netherlands and Belgium stand to take a big blow if there is no deal, however rudimentary. The EU has insisted that any economic setback would be even bigger in Britain. Still Johnson has repeatedly said that Britain will thrive even if it ends the transition period without a deal. But economists disagree, saying a no-deal exit would be a heavy blow, introducing tariffs and other barriers to trade with the EU, which accounts for almost half of the U.K.s trade. Our door remains open for a close and ambitious partnership with Great Britain. That is and will remain our goal," said Maas. Talks have been soured by Britains decision last month to introduce a bill that breaches the legally binding divorce agreement it struck with the bloc less than a year ago. Maas and German Chancellor Angela Merkel met with EU chief Brexit negotiator MIchel Barnier on Monday. ___ Follow all AP stories on the Brexit trade talks at https://apnews.com/Brexit. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor Its no secret that a large portion of the San Antonio areas population is active military or veterans. After all, its why were nicknamed Military City USA. If you are one of these many men and women who serve in the military, then you also know the unique needs that often come with buying or selling a home such as tighter timelines or a need to be close to the base. The good news is there are professionals ready to help. Heres our guide for military personnel when it comes to navigating the homebuying process. Work with a REALTOR Typically, a person in the military knows they will PCS six months in advance but you may not get your orders until 30-60 days out. This means you have to move quickly to find housing. You may also take a long weekend to visit your new town and search for a home so it is important that you establish a relationship with your REALTOR prior to your visit, either online or by phone. A REALTOR will make the most of the visit and help familiarize you with the city and discuss what housing options and location might make the most sense for you depending on your priorities. When searching for a REALTOR with experience working with military buyers and sellers, look for those with the MRP designation which stands for Military Relocation Professional. REALTORS with the MRP designation have taken the coursework to better understand the unique needs of active and retired military personnel and made a commitment to serving this community. To find a San Antonio area REALTOR with the MRP designation, visit www.sabor.com and search by specialty. If you're always curious about which Korean drama you should watch, then probably this article is perfect for you because you will discover what Korean drama will suit you best based on your Zodiac sign. With a bunch of Korean dramas to available to watch, it's so hard to determine the one that you would probably enjoy. So, we did further research and discovered which Korean drama would suit you according to your zodiac sign. If you're currently struggling with what show to binge on, no worries. We got you covered! So without further ado, check out our list of Korean dramas that are recommended for you to watch according to your zodiac sign. Aries - Was It Love? Aries people belong to the Fire element of the zodiac (along with Sagittarius and Leo). These folks are headstrong, courageous and determined. This personality can be compared to Noh Ae Jeong (Song Ji Hyo) of Was It Love? She is a single mother with a strong survival instinct. Taurus - Vagabond Taurus folks are known to be devoted and responsible. Like the main character of the action drama Vagabond, Ch Dal-gun is like a Taurus who never gives up on his goals whatever struggles he faces. Gemini - Extracurricular Gemini people as we know get bored easily. So we bet a show like Extracurricular would be interesting for them since the show is packed with mystery, crimes, and a lot of twists and turns. Cancer - Hospital Playlist Cancer people are very emotional and sensitive people, they also care deeply. Hospital Playlist drama is recommended to them since the show is about five doctors who have been friends for two decades. The heartwarming personality of each character will suit their taste. Leo - It's Okay, Not To Be Okay For Leo's sure they can be able to relate and connect to the characters in the hit drama It's Okay, Not To Be Okay, most especially the leads. The character of Moon Young (Seo Ye Ji) loves the attention and the finer things in life, but she is also strong-headed. Moon Gang Tae (Kim Soo Hyun) on the other hand, is all about putting others first and setting his life aside for his brother. Leo folks enjoy the attention but are also kind people who love helping others. Virgo - Romance Is A Bonus Book A Virgo's traits are loyal, kind and hardworking, that is exactly the personality of the Romance Is A Bonus Book, lead character Kang Dan-i. Surely he has to be a virgo, the hard-working and determined girl. She also doesn't open up about herself swiftly, just like a Virgo who is generally very shy. Libra - Memories Of The Alhambra Memories of The Alhambra is the perfect drama for Libra people, mixed with a little romance, adventure, mystery, and fantasy, then surely Libra folks would love watching this drama. Memories of The Alhambra tells the story of a successful CEO who meets a hostel owner in Spain, and there the two of them get intertwined in mysterious incidents, most of which are connected to a real game. Scorpio - Mystic Pop Up Bar Those who are in this zodiac sign are known as people with passion. They very passionate at what they do and with the people around them that is why Scorpios can relate to the characters of Mystic Pop Up Bar. The story of this show is about a mysterious bar, managed by a short-tempered lady, an innocent part-timer, and an afterlife detective. Sagittarius - Crash Landing on You Crash Landing on You is one of the most loved Korean dramas of all time, it caters the genre of adventure and romance. Sagittarians are those people who are outgoing and natural explorers so this show is perfect for them to watch since the story starts with a South Korean heiress who inadvertently "crash lands" in North Korea after encountering a unexpected tornado. Capricorn - Itaewon Class Capricorn traits are Responsible, disciplined, with self-control, just like Park Sae Ro Yi's (Park Seo Joon) personality in Itaewon Class. He opened up a restaurant which he turns into a huge franchise. The same as Park Sae Ro Yi, Capricorn people, are also about pursuing their dreams without losing their ground. Aquarius - Love Alarm As they say, Aquarians are unique people, so surely Love Alarm will be the perfect show for people under the Aquarius zodiac because of its uniqueness. The story of this drama is about an app that enables its users to discover love. Pisces - My First First Love Pisces folks are always smart, creative, and deeply intuitive, they feel things deeply and have incredibly strong gut reactions. These types of people like to live in their dreamy world and they would probably keep their feelings a secret rather than openly expressing themselves, the same as JiSoo's character Yun Tae in the drama My First First Love who doesn't express his feeling and keeps it locked inside. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 23:55:32|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close by Frank Kanyesigye KIGALI, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Muyanza Dam built by China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC) in Rulindo district, central Rwanda, has played a "great" role in bringing in high-value crops, as it recently attracted reputable Rwandan agribusiness companies to grow them in the area. With 26 meters in height, it is the second highest dam and the highest and largest earth-fill dam in Rwanda. It is part of the Rwandan government's Rural Sector Support Project funded by the World Bank and was built by experienced the CGC. The dam, completed in 2018, recently attracted a number of reputable Rwandan agribusiness companies to grow high-value crops such as chili pepper and ginger in the area, due to irrigation water it supplies, Rulindo vice mayor Prosper Mulindwa told Xinhua in an interview on Monday. Among them, two companies are cultivating 255 and 30 hectares of chili pepper respectively, while another one is cultivating ginger on 20-hectare land. "Muyanza dam has played a great role in attracting the cultivation of high-value crops like chili pepper, ginger, turmeric, garlic, french beans, chia seeds and summer flowers, because of the permanent availability of water in the whole command area under irrigation," said Mulindwa, who is in charge of economic development in the district. Before the construction of the dam, there were no agri-business investors engaged in cultivating high-value crops in Rulindo, and farmers only grew food for home consumption, which produced low yield, especially during the dry season, according to the vice mayor. The dam has significantly led to agriculture transformation in Rulindo, which is a major step towards improved agricultural productivity and household income in the area, he said, adding that it is also contributing to the growth of agriculture exports in Rwanda. "CGC did an excellent job in a professional way. There were no complaints from the people and workers. We appreciate the engineering work done by CGC," he said. "The construction of Muyanza dam and the irrigation system has helped me to shift to commercial farming by cultivating high-value horticultural crops because these crops require water to survive, most especially during the dry season," Gaspard Nsengiyumva, a local farmer, told Xinhua on Monday. Before the dam was constructed, he could not grow vegetables and other crops during the dry season due to lack of water. "I'm expecting huge investment returns from harvest," said another farmer Viateur Bagwaneza who has cultivated chili pepper on 1.5 hectares land. Enditem Nearly 35 Gujarat Congress workers and two-party MLAs were detained here on Monday after they held a protest without permission over the alleged gang- rape and death of a Dalit woman from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh, police said. A similar protest was held in Surat where around 20 Congress workers were detained, they said. Congress held protests in all major cities of Gujarat as part of the party's call for 'satyagraha' by its leaders and workers at district headquarters of states across the country against the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh to seek justice for the victim and her family. In Ahmedabad, the protest was organised outside the collectorate and was led by city Congress president Shashikant Patel and MLAs Gyasuddin Shaikh and Imran Khedawala. For latest updates on Hathras rape case, click here Apart from seeking justice for the victim, the opposition party condemned the alleged manhandling of senior Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra by Uttar Pradesh police. "The BJP government in Uttar Pradesh is trying to shield the culprits. And when our leaders went to Hathras to meet the victim's kin, they were manhandled by the police," Patel alleged before his detention. "As a responsible opposition party, we will not sit quietly against such lawlessness," he added. The city police said the Congressmen held the protest without permission. "We have detained around 35 Congress workers. We will release them afterwards," Ahmedabad's Deputy Commissioner of Police Vijay Patel said. A similar protest was held outside Surat district collector's office where around 20 Congress workers, including women, were detained, another police official said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday recommended a CBI probe into the alleged gang-rape and death of the 19-year-old Dalit woman that triggered a nationwide outrage. Some refused to abide by park rules, such as staying out of the pool when it was closed at night, and reacted aggressively when asked to stop. Others demanded discounts, as if bartering in Bali. Mr Beven said the only way he could deal with some groups was to threaten to call the police. Then some people left bad online reviews in revenge. The owners of accommodation on pristine northern WA beaches say visitors have been demanding refunds for ridiculous reasons. Credit:Facebook "You have just got to be careful because then they go to TripAdvisor and put nasty things on about you," Mr Beven said. Giralia Station Stay owner Denver Blake said it was lovely having more people around, but many did not realise they were coming to the outback. His homestead is located "where the outback meets the coast" about 100 kilometres from Coral Bay. "I think a lot of people havent been past Wanneroo, and they come up here where we think we have a fantastic backyard and people who come here usually love it and appreciate it, but theyre leaving rubbish and being rude," he said. "I think a lot of people are used to going to Bali and sitting in a 5 or 4-star hotel and being waited on." Mr Blake said he found it sad that so many West Australians were treating people running tourism businesses poorly, when interstate and international travellers came to WA to appreciate the great outdoors and did not act the same way. Giralia Bay, in Western Australia's north west, has been attracting a different sort of clientelle post COVID-19. Credit:Giralia Station Stay He called many of his recent visitors "slobs". "They like to sit in a hotel; theyre not adventurers. Theyre the sort of people who would never come up here." Mr Blake recently had to ask a group of 16 people to leave because they were abusing others. "Their language was unacceptable," he said. "It was alcohol-related. I don't think I've ever had to ask anyone to leave our campsite since we opened." The owners of Quobba Station at Red Bluff, at the far southern end of Ningaloo Reef, raised similar issues on social media. They offer accommodation on the pristine beaches, ranging from basic camp sites to luxury eco safari tents that run on solar power and rainwater tanks. The post listed ridiculous reasons why visitors had complained about their stay and demanded refunds, and warned: "Make sure you have complete respect before you even consider coming out, and this includes the amount of rubbish and attitude you bring with you." "Please note: we do not offer refunds for early departure, even if there is too many flies, the surf is too flat or too big or too noisey [sic] for you to sleep, if its too windy or too hot or not enough trees, or not flat enough or too much dirt," they wrote. "People you are coming to a desert, a very fragile part of the planet, that we love and respect right down to each blade of grass." The post also called out people who drove too fast on their farm and treated others with disrespect. WA Tourism Council boss Evan Hall said travellers needed to realise regional WA was remote, which was what made the sparsely populated areas so special. But it also meant visitors were not going to get 'major destination' experiences. "You are not going to get your choice of 15 different places to eat in town, with teams of staff ready to bring a cocktail to your door," he said. A bungalow at Quobba station. Credit:Facebook Mr Hall said less-developed countries with "appalling low wages" could provide cheap hospitality to western tourists, but this was not the case in WA. COVID-19 Not Detected in Test That Biden Took: Campaign The results for Democratic presidential nominee Joe Bidens latest COVID-19 test came back Sunday night, his campaign said. Vice President Biden underwent PCR testing for COVID-19 today and COVID-19 was not detected, the campaign said in a statement. No further information was given and the campaign didnt respond to a query about whether he was tested once or twice, and about the last time he received a COVID-19 test result. COVID-19 is the disease caused by CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus. Biden, 77, debated with President Donald Trump, 74, in person in Cleveland, Ohio, on Sept. 29two days before Trump tested positive for the disease. A growing number of people in Trumps orbit, including First Lady Melania Trump, 50, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, 58, and Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), 49, have tested positive, with at least eight in attendance when Trump announced at the White House on Sept. 27 that he was nominating Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. Barrett, 48, and numerous othersincluding Vice President Mike Pence, 61who came into contact with Trump, have tested negative in recent days. Biden said on Twitter Friday that hed tested negative for COVID-19 and his doctor said both the nominee and his wife, Jill Biden, 69, underwent PCR testing for COVID-19 today and COVID-19 was not detected. Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), 55, Bidens running mate, also tested negative. Bidens campaign said Saturday that it would release the results of every test Biden takes. We have adhered to strict and extensive safety practices recommended by public health experts and doctors in all of our campaigningincluding social distancing, mask wearing, and additional safeguards, campaign spokesman Andrew Bates said in a statement to news outlets. Vice President Biden is being tested regularly, and we will be releasing the results of each test. Democratic Presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden arrives to speak at a campaign event at United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 951 in Grand Rapids, Mich., on Oct. 2, 2020. (Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images) A car with President Donald Trump drives past supporters in a motorcade outside of Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, M., on Oct. 4, 2020. (Alex Edelman/AFP via Getty Images) COVID-19 kills a small percentage of patients but the vast majority recover, many after experiencing no or only mild symptoms. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chills, and the loss of taste and smell. The CCP virus is believed to spread through close contact, primarily when an infected person releases droplets through coughing, sneezing, or talking and the droplets land in the nose, eyes, or mouth of another person, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Biden didnt appear in public on Sunday with his campaign calling yet another lid just after 9 a.m. Biden spoke at a virtual event on Saturday. Biden and his wife are scheduled to fly to Florida on Monday. Biden has a town hall in Miami on Monday night. Trump is still being cared for at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, about 15 miles northwest of the White House. Trump and his doctors say hes getting better after receiving supplemental oxygen and a bevy of treatments, including doses of the antiviral remdesivir and famotidine, a heartburn prevention and relief medicine. Trump was driven for a quick trip outside the hospital on Sunday to wave to a crowd of supporters who had gathered there. TWO15 HPC The HPC is the DH race bike of the TWO15 brothers and goes for this with a 29" wheel only setup. The main frame and rocker link are made from carbon fiber composite. Not a first all together for Cube, but it's first composite DH frame for the company. The chain stay and seat stay of the frame use 6061-T6 aluminum. Overall frame weight is 3.3kg for a size M. Carrying on from their previous frame, the shock is flipped, with the piggy back end of the shock mounted to the main frame and was done in an attempt to keep the unsprung mass as low as possible. TWO15 HPC 29 At A Glance Wheel Size: 29" Carbon fiber composite mainframe & rocker link, aluminum chainstay and seatstay 201mm travel 63.8 head angle 463mm reach (size L) 445mm chain stay Weight: 34.83 lb / 15.8 kg (claimed HPC SLT version, size M) Price: SLT 5,999, SL 4,699 cube.eu Wheel Size: 29" Carbon fiber composite mainframe & rocker link, aluminum chainstay and seatstay 201mm travel 63.8 head angle 463mm reach (size L) 445mm chain stay Weight: 34.83 lb / 15.8 kg (claimed HPC SLT version, size M) Price: SLT 5,999, SL 4,699 Geometry, Sizing & Adjustability Suspension Leverage ratio left and anti-squat right. Blue is the new bike and green is the old bike. Anti-rise left and pedal kickback right. Blue is the new bike and green is the old bike. TWO15 HPC SLT TWO15 HPC SL Options, Price & Availability TWO15 HPA The HPA carries over a lot of the engineering and design found in the HPC version and actually uses the same composite rocker link. The rest of the frame is made from aluminum and frame weight is claimed to be 3.8kg. With not everyone wanting every run they do on a DH bike to be a full on race run, Cube sought to cater to the crowd looking to get their fun from a slightly different motivation, as well as riders looking for a less expensive, 27.5" wheeled option. TWO15 HPA 27.5 At A Glance Wheel Size: 27.5" Aluminum main frame, chain stay & seat stay, carbon fiber composite rocker link 200mm travel 63 head angle 455mm reach (size L) 430mm chainstay Weight: 37.26 lb / 16.9 kg (Race version) Price: Race 2,999, Pro 2,499 cube.eu Wheel Size: 27.5" Aluminum main frame, chain stay & seat stay, carbon fiber composite rocker link 200mm travel 63 head angle 455mm reach (size L) 430mm chainstay Weight: 37.26 lb / 16.9 kg (Race version) Price: Race 2,999, Pro 2,499 Geometry, Sizing, Adjustability & Suspension TWO15 HPA Race TWO15 HPA Pro Options, Price & Availability A note on Euro pricing: Prices in Euros stated are for the German market, which is currently having a reduced tax period and might not be representative of other Euro using country prices. So, check in with your local markets to have the accurate price for where you are in the world. Despite DH races being a bit thin on the ground, we've seen a few new DH bikes pop up this year, and just around the corner we have the biggest race of the year, the World Championships in Leogang.Ready for that event, but not all that much of a secret if you're an eagle eyed DH fan, is the launch of the new Cube TWO15. There are two separate version for 2021, giving Cube the potential to focus each bike in more closely on its specific job.The HPC version is squarely aimed at DH racing and was informed quite heavily from the racers' feedback on the old bike. It's also Cube's first foray into a composite DH bike. The HPA version on the other hand caters to the park rats and bike park crew, perhaps more content with squaring off turns and avoiding the pressure police than chasing tenths of a second.Cube sought to keep the maintenance of the bike a little easier and skipped the hidden hardware that can be found on some of their other bikes. All cable routing is internal and the fork bumpers on the main frame double up as the cable entry.There's a 203mm post mount for the brake and an array of stuck on protection from the down tube to chainstay and heel rub areas to keep the bike quiet and more resistant to wear from riding.As is the case with both versions of the new TWO15, it's available in sizes M to XL. For the HPC version that sees slightly longer reaches ranging from 443mm to 490mm. That's then paired to a 445mm chain stay on all sizes and a -27.5mm BB drop, giving a BB height of around 343mm.The stock head angle is 63.8, but can be adjusted by 0.5 by the use of some adjustable headset cups. German brand Across was drafted in to do the cups which are made from plastic and don't actually press into the frame, the idea being that you can loosen the fork crowns and turn the cups 180 fairly easily. The cups include some small tabs to apparently stop them rotating during use.Cube stated that they preferred to have just a head angle adjustment over the common flip chip somewhere in the suspension system to avoid changing the whole bike geometry in one go. The change in head angle also gives a smidge of BB height change too at 1.5mm.The new TWO15 retains the Horst pivot rocker link layout of the previous bike and also retains the imperial length shock.The HPC is built around a 241mm x 76mm stroke shock, or 9.5" x 3" to be imperially correct. This allowed Cube to pack a tiny bit more stroke into a shorter eye to eye than the metric shock version, drop the standover of the frame and package a shorter shock in the frame without the need for a side loading trunnion mount.Cube was given the green light from Fox that the shocks would be available for the foreseeable future and it's the company's DHX2 that the whole bike is designed around. Having said that, the Float X2 will also fit. So too with other brands shocks as long as you can get an imperial version. That shock compatibility is he biggest downside of going with an imperial length.The new bike's kinematics see a drastically upped progression to 43%, with a much higher starting leverage ratio of 3.6 dropping all the way to 2.05.Anti-squat also sees an increase, with around 140% anti-squat at sag with a 34/18T gear combination and overall higher percentages throughout travel. The bike's anti-rise sits at around 60% throughout the whole travel and is also an increase over the old bike.Cube knew the up in anti-squat would also bring an increase in pedal kickback degrees, but also knew the topic is deeper than just a graph and the number of times it actually affects the rider is different to what most people think or believe.Lastly, the axle path was wiggled to give a slight bit more rearward trajectory, only 2mm, but mainly to overall be a bit closer to vertical around sag.The HPC version of the TWO15 is split into two models, the SLT and SL, both available now.The SLT version is a replica of the team bikes and uses a Fox 40 Factory fork and DHX2 Factory shock, SRAM X01 DH drivetrain with Race Face Sixc cranks, Magura MT7 brakes, Race Face Atlas wheels with Schwalbe Magic Mary and Big Betty combo with a Super Gravity casing. Price is 5,999 and the claimed weight is 15.8kg or 34.86lbs.The SL version uses a Fox 40 Performance fork and DHX2 Performance shock, SRAM GX DH drivetrain with Race Face Atlas cranks, Magura MT5 brakes, Answer ATAC DH wheels with Shwalbe Magic Mary Big Betty combo with a Super Gravity casing. Price is 3,699 and claimed weight is 16.6kg or 36.6lbs.The HPA is designed around 27.5" wheels only and sees some geometry changes to also help with the more bike park focus on fun and games.M, L and XL sizes are available with slightly shorter reaches compared to the HPC race bike. Reach spans 435mm to 475mm and is paired with a shorter 430mm chainstay length.The HPA also uses a metric 250 x 75mm shock to enable Cube to use other shock manufacturers and hit the necessary price points while also opening up the bike to fitting shocks from all brands.It uses the same plastic adjustable headset cups with a stock head angle of 63 that can be adjusted down to 62.5.The smaller wheels also drive a smaller BB drop of -8mm giving a BB height of around 346mm, which is altered by 1.5mm with the head angle change.The HPA version is also split into two models, the Race and Pro, available very shortly.The Race version uses a Marzocchi Bomber 58 fork and Bomber CR shock, SRAM GX DH drivetrain with Race Face Atlas cranks, Magura MT5 brakes, Answer ATAC wheels with Schwalbe Magic Mary and Big Betty combo but in a Super Trail casing. Price is 2,999 and the claimed weight is 16.9kg or 37.26lbs.The Pro version uses an X-Fusion RV1 HLR fork and H3C shock, SRAM GX DH drivetrain with Race Face Chester cranks, Magura MT Thirty brakes, Answer ATAC DH wheels with Shcwalbe Magic Mary Big Betty combo but in a Super Trail casing. Price is 2,499 and claimed weight is 17.7kg or 39.02lbs. Four men are due to go on trial in Britain on Monday in connection with the deaths of 39 Vietnamese migrants whose bodies were found in a lorry in southeast England. The grim discovery of 31 men and eight women inside the container truck on an industrial estate east of London last year threw fresh light on the plight of migrants desperate to reach Britain. A post-mortem examination found the victims 10 of them teenagers, including two 15-year-old boys died from lack of oxygen and overheating in the refrigerated lorry. Seven people were jailed in Vietnam last month for their role in the tragedy. The four men on trial at the Old Bailey court in central London from Monday face a range of charges, from manslaughter to conspiracy to commit unlawful immigration. They do not include the 25-year-old driver of the lorry, Maurice Robinson of Northern Ireland. He drove the truck onto a ferry from the Belgian port of Zeebrugge in the early hours of October 23, 2019. Robinson admitted 39 counts of manslaughter and one of conspiracy to commit unlawful immigration at an April hearing. Meanwhile another man, 40-year-old Ronan Hughes, also from Northern Ireland, pleaded guilty to the same charges at a hearing on August 28. At an extradition hearing in Dublin on May 15, he was described as the "ringleader" of a human trafficking operation. Both men will be sentenced at a later date. 'I'm dying because I can't breathe' More than two dozen other suspects were arrested in May in connection with people trafficking in France, Belgium and Germany as a result of the investigation into the case. An alleged key figure in the ring of smugglers, a 29-year-old man nicknamed "The Bald Duke" according to AFP sources, was caught in Germany's Upper Rhine region. Thirteen of the suspects arrested by French police have been charged there with people trafficking, while six of the group mainly Vietnamese and French nationals also face manslaughter charges. Story continues The investigation found the migrants who died were loaded into the truck in northern France, and that the network continued to operate even after the tragedy, charging up to 20,000 euros to cross from France to Britain. The family of one victim, 26-year-old Pham Thi Tra My, said they had received a text message from her in the hours before she is believed to have perished. "I'm sorry Mom. My path to abroad doesn't succeed. Mom, I love you so much! I'm dying because I can't breathe," she said in the message confirmed by her brother Pham Manh Cuong. The victims came from impoverished and remote corners of central Vietnam, a hotspot for people willing to embark on dangerous journeys in the hope of striking it rich abroad. Many are smuggled illegally through Russia or China, carrying falsified documents, often owing tens of thousands of dollars to their traffickers. They end up working off the books on cannabis farms or in nail salons. (AFP) Days after seven of Attorney General Ken Paxtons top aides accused him of bribery and corruption, the states top law enforcement officer says he will not resign. Despite the effort by rogue employees and their false allegations, I will continue to seek justice in Texas, Paxton said. His comments came after news broke over the weekend that the senior staff members reported Paxton to law enforcement authorities, accusing him of using his office to benefit one of his campaign donors, Nate Paul, a high-profile Austin real estate investor. Paul had given Paxton a $25,000 donation for his 2018 re-election campaign. Paxton, who has been out of jail on bail on felony securities fraud charges during virtually all of his tenure leading the attorney generals office, shrugged off the new allegations and fired back. Kin Man Hui, Staff / San Antonio Express-News He said the whistleblowers are trying to impede an ongoing investigation into criminal wrongdoing by public officials including employees of this office, without substantiating those claims or answering questions about them. Court records related to the legal clash around Pauls case have been sealed while the matter is under investigation. BACKGROUND: Austin investor Nate Paul at center of allegations against Texas AG Ken Paxton Even as requests for Paxtons resignation grew louder Monday his former chief deputy, U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, was the first prominent Texas Republican to call publicly for his ouster it was seemingly business as usual for Paxton. He announced that civil litigator and criminal defense attorney Brent Webster will replace first assistant attorney general Jeff Mateer, who resigned Friday after signing the whistleblower letter. Webster has been a criminal prosecutor in Texas for 10 years and previously served as the first assistant district attorney in Williamson County. Texas political analyst Mark Jones of Rice University, who has studied the felony case that has been hanging over Paxton for five years now, said these allegations are different. This isnt an accusation that comes completely out of left field regarding a public servant who has an unblemished track record, Jones said. This is someone, from when he arrived in the state House, moved to the state Senate, moved to the office of the attorney general, has had a trail of questionable ethical behavior. TEXAS TAKE: Get political headlines from across the state sent directly to your inbox Jones added: Were talking about the chief law enforcement official in the second-largest state in the country. Most state Republicans, watching as Paxton has weathered such allegations in the past, have backed him or stayed silent over the years. This time likely will be different, Jones said. Questions remain Hearst Newspapers reported Sunday that Houston lawyer Brandon Cammack, whom Paxton hired as a special prosecutor, issued grand jury subpoenas last week targeting adversaries of Paul, according to a senior attorney generals office official. There were 37 subpoenas that targeted actions of federal authorities in an August 2019 raid of Pauls home and offices, the Austin American-Statesman reported Monday. One of the signatories on the letter accusing Paxton, deputy attorney general for criminal justice J. Mark Penley, filed a motion in state District Court in Austin to halt the subpoenas. The motion to quash them was granted Friday, records show. Many questions remain about the nature of the alleged bribery and how Cammack came to work for the office in a move that has been opposed by half of Paxtons executive staff. Paxton has not responded to questions about any contract the office had with Cammack, when he was hired, how much he is being paid or any other details. Hearst Newspapers has filed open records requests for records of payments to Cammack as well as any agreement the office had with him. Roy, whose district stretches from San Antonio to Austin, said in his statement Monday that the allegations are more than troubling on the merits, adding that even if Paxton is innocent, he has handled the situation poorly. Any grace for him to resolve differences and demonstrate if the allegations are false was eliminated by his choice instead to attack the very people entrusted, by him, to lead the office some of whom I know well and whose characters are beyond reproach, Roy said. The attorney general deserves his day in court, but the people of Texas deserve a fully functioning AGs office. Roys statement was all the more significant because of his relationship to Paxton from 2014 to 2016, Roy served as Paxtons first assistant attorney general. Other Republicans, including Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, have not gone as far as calling for Paxton to step down, instead saying they had concerns but would wait to see the results of the law enforcement investigation into the matter. State Rep. Sarah Davis, a moderate Republican from Houston, landed somewhere in the middle, saying Sunday that Paxton needs to quickly address these allegations or resign. The closest some Republicans came to speaking out against Paxton was rejecting donations to their campaigns from Paul. Patrick told the Statesman that he would give a $10,000 contribution to charity. Roy said on Twitter that hed donated a $2,700 contribution from Paul to charity. Crossed the line again If more Texas Republicans, especially those within the most conservative corner of the party, like Roy, come out against Paxton, that pressure could become weighty enough to change his mind about stepping down, Jones said. Since hes a very staunch conservative with strong tea party support, it just makes it all the more difficult to say anything other than what it appears to be, Jones said. That is, someone with a troubled ethical and legal history crossed the line again. Jones said he expects Paxton to play the process out, retaining his position as leverage in any case against him. If Paxton were to step down, Abbott would appoint an acting attorney general, who would hold office until the Legislature reconvenes in January, as state law provides. That person then would have to be approved by a two-thirds majority of the Texas Senate. Abbott would have 10 days after the session starts to choose a nominee; if he does not, the acting attorney general would be considered his nominee. If the Senate were to reject his nominee, Abbott would have to select someone else. Jones said Patrick likely wouldnt bring a nomination to the floor, however, unless he knew he had the votes. If he declined to bring it to a vote for that reason, the acting attorney generals term would end at the close of the legislative session, and Abbott would choose a new nominee to serve until a new attorney general is elected in 2022. Oct. 6: There are strong indications that Clevinger will get the Game 1 nod, Robert Murray reports. Hs thrown a pair of flat-ground sessions and a bullpen session recently. Oct. 5, 8:54 pm: The Padres are deciding between Clevinger and Chris Paddack to start tomorrows game one against the Dodgers, per Kevin Acee of the San Diego Tribune. Both threw bullpen sessions on Sunday, and if they deem Clevinger healthy enough, hell get the ball. Starting Clevinger in game one would be an interesting call, because it could also set him up to start a potential game five on short rest. The Padres might be hesitant to do so given the injury concern. Perhaps more to the point, starting Clevinger tomorrow would mean Paddack would not be able to go in a potential series-deciding game five. 9:33 am: The Padres are optimistic right-hander Mike Clevinger will be able to return for their National League Division Series against the Dodgers, hears Bob Nightengale of USA Today (Twitter link). However, fellow starter Dinelson Lamet likely wont be ready for this round, Nightengale adds. Both pitchers missed the playoffs opening set, but San Diego leaned heavily on their bullpen to advance past the Cardinals in three games. Clevinger has generally seemed the more likely of the duo to work his way back to the mound this week. Sidelined since September 23 due to an elbow strain, the 29-year-old threw a high-intensity bullpen session yesterday, reports Jon Morosi of MLB Network (via Twitter). The highest-profile of San Diegos myriad deadline season acquisitions, Clevinger has a 3.02 ERA/4.15 FIP in 41.2 innings between the Indians and Padres this season. Lamet emerged as an NL Cy Young contender this year, pitching to a 2.09 ERA/2.48 FIP across 69 innings. Unfortunately, he exited his final start of the regular season with biceps tightness. The Padres have until tomorrow to formally set their NLDS roster. File image Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray is holding discussions with various religious organisations and he will soon take a decision on reopening places of worship in the state, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said on Monday. Raut said this when some reporters pointed out that restaurants have been allowed to operate again with their capacity not exceeding 50 per cent or as prescribed by local authorities, but temples have not been reopened in the state. "The chief minister has maintained from the beginning that things will be unlocked in a phased manner...you can impose 50 per cent restrictions on restaurants while reopening them, but it is not possible in the case of temples," he said. "The states chief minister is speaking to organisations representing all religions. Soon, the chief minister will take a decision on it," Raut said. The Rajya Sabha member also said the decision on the number of seats to be contested by the Shiv Sena in the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections is expected to be taken in a day or two. "Discussion is on about contesting the Bihar polls. Our people in Bihar want us to fight 50 seats. But, we are saying that we should contest 30 to 40 seats. A decision on it will be taken today or tomorrow," he said. Asked if the Shiv Sena will field a candidate against former Bihar director general of police Gupteshwar Pandey (if he contests), Raut cryptically said, "Keep watching." "I will go to Bihar. Will answer this when I will go there, he added. Pandey, while heading the Bihar Police force, had pitched for a CBI probe into actor Sushant Singh Rajputs death case. He took voluntary retirement from service last month and joined the Nitish Kumar-led JD(U). The Bihar Assembly polls will be held in three phases on October 28, November 3 and November 7, and the counting of votes will take place on November 10. For the second consecutive day on Monday, chief minister Yogi Adityanath accused the opposition parties of attempting to trigger caste and communal violence in Uttar Pradesh amid a nationwide outrage over the alleged rape-murder of 19-year-old Dalit girl from Uttar Pradeshs Hathras. Over the last week, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi were able to meet the family of the Hathras victim on their second attempt. Citing imposition of Section 144, the police made Congress leaders return to Delhi on their first attempt. Yesterday, Bhim army chief Chandrashekhar Azad met the Hathras family and demanded Y category security for them. Continuing his attack on the opposition, the CM lashed out at the Samajwadi Party rule, alleging it was synonymous with lawlessness. He also said that the Bahujan Samaj Party was synonymous with corruption and dismissed the Congress as a party without any political space or standing in the state. That is why its clear that the BJP is up against none and would register an emphatic win in all the seven bypoll seats in the state, he said. CM Adityanath was addressing cadres through a virtual connect campaign in Tundla, one of the seven assembly segments where bypolls will be held on November 3. UP BJP chief Swatantra Dev Singh also addressed the cadre. There are forces that are not happy with development and progress the country and the state are making and are constantly engaged in whipping up caste and communal riots. In fact, in some recent incidents, conspiracies hatched by them have been detected and unravelled. We will have to respond to this through positive, development-oriented work, the chief minister said. On Sunday, while virtually launching the BJPs by-poll campaign from Naugawan Sadat assembly segment in Amroha, CM Adityanath had accused the opposition parties of attempting to whip up caste and communal riots/violence in the state and urged the cadres to be wary of their designs. The chief minister said due to Covid-19, there wont be any big political meetings during the bypolls. He urged the cadres to focus on a door-to-door contact campaign. Take up the door-to-door campaign while moving around in small groups and following all necessary precautions, he told the cadre. The BJP is expected to declare its candidates for the bypolls soon. The state BJP chief also cautioned the cadres against what he called, nefarious designs of the opposition to whip up trouble in the state. With Alberta schools closed Jillian Reid, 9, and her siblings have started home schooling in Cremona, Alta., Monday, March 23, 2020, amid a worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. (The Canadian Press/Jeff McIntosh) Edmonton Catholic Schools Require Students Choose In-Person or Online Learning Parents with children in the Edmonton Catholic School Division will have to choose between in-person or online classes for their children for the rest of the year by Oct. 15. Albertas education minister, Adriana LaGrange, mandated all schools in the province return to in-class learning this fall. Edmonton Catholic Schools offered the additional choice of online learning. They also divided the school year into quarters and allowed parents and students to choose each quarter whether they would attend a classroom or online. Initially, the school division permitted families four different times within the academic year when they could revisit their decision regarding in-person or online learning. Students could move between the two learning options every quarter. Now, no more changes can be made for the rest of the school year after deciding by Oct. 15. Rather than have students move each quarter, at the end of this quarter, students will make their only move this year to either online or to in-person and will be required to remain learning that way for the remainder of the year. The idea of reconfiguring staffing and scheduling three more times this academic year places a tremendous strain on available resources, said Tim Cusack the Deputy Superintendent of the Edmonton Catholic School Division (ECSD) in a video to parents. It may have an impact on the quality of learning for the students. One problem that became apparent as the school district prepared for a quarterly change was the disruption to the continuity of education. Students could have a different teacher each quarter, Cusack explained. Our goal therefore is to be as minimally disruptive as possible to the continuity of teaching and learning for both students and staff Robert Martin, the Chief Superintendent of ECSD said in the same video to parents. There would be significant additional planning required, regarding timetables and assigning staff as needed, in order to adjust for a number of students changing between online or in-person each and every quarter. It has become evident that human resources would be stretched to their limits, the ECSD website explained. To accommodate the demand for online learning our division hired over 95 additional teachers to ensure all students has supports in place for their learning, Cusack said. The school board is also having difficulties hiring qualified Catholic teachers since many school jurisdictions across the province have been hiring more teachers this year to deal with changes required by the pandemic. Enhanced health and safety guidelines also add to the responsibilities of parents and school staff during the second wave of the pandemic. Teachers, staff, and students across Alberta must review a self-screening questionnaire daily before entering a school building. Visitor must also use the questionnaire to determine if they should enter the school. The screening questionnaire asks for a self-assessment of the attendee regarding any new or worsening symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath or sore throat. The questionnaire also asks attendees if they have travelled outside of Canada, or had contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19, within the last 14 days. Staff, students and parents who have symptoms, who travelled outside the country or have been in contact with a positive case within the last 14 days are asked to not enter the school and should stay at home and use the Alberta Health Services COVID-19 Self Assessment Tool to determine whether testing is needed. Karachi: An Afghan diplomat was shot dead by his country's security guard at Karachi on Monday. The gaurd attacked the diplomat with a sub-machine gun after an altercation occured between the two inside the Afghan Consulate in Karachi. Private security guard Hayatullah Khan opened fire on the third secretary, Zaki Adu, in the lobby of the Consulate inthe high-security Clifton area after a personal disagreement between the two, according to the Deputy Inspector General(DIG) South Azad Khan. "There is no terrorism element in this sad incident," DIG Khan told PTI. "This is not a premeditated act neither a terrorist act. The guard opened fire on the spur of the moment after he lost his temper following an argument with the deceased over timings," the police official said. Also Read: Afghan diplomat's house attacked in Peshawar "We have checked the CCTV cameras and recorded eyewitness statements," he said. The Afghan Consulate is located in the heavily secured and posh area of Clifton and the provincial government has deputed security outside the building. There are a number of other foreign consulates in the areaand also the Bhutto family's residence is situated in thelocality. Khan said Hayatullah has been taken into custody and investigations have begun. The guard was an Afghan national employed by the Consulate. Police cleared the Consulate building for resumption of work after a thorough search. Security of the area has been increased after the incident, a Sindh government official said. Afghan ambassador to Pakistan Omar Zakhilwal was quoted by The Express Tribune as saying that it was not an act of terrorism. "It seems to be a personal dispute related criminal act," Zakhilwal said. The Afghan envoy said the firing inside the Afghan Consulate in Karachi at around 12:30 PM was carried out by an Afghan guard inside the compound resulting in the fatality of one of the diplomats. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi: A photo of actor Sanjay Dutt, who is currently undergoing cancer treatment, has left fans worried about his health. The picture has been widely shared on social media and appears to be taken at a hospital. It features him casually dressed while posing with a fan. Sanjay Dutt, however, looks visibly weaker and that has raised concerns over his health. Here's the viral photo: "He is a fighter, will be back soon," "Baba looks so weak. Hope he recovers soon" and "Gell well soon, Sanju Baba" are some of the several comments shared on social media. Sanjay Dutt was diagnosed with lung cancer in August. He was expected to fly abroad. However, due to the coronavirus pandemic, he received his initial treatment in Mumbai. He was first hospitalised on August 10 due to breathing problems. The actor stayed in the hospital for two days and later, he revealed that he is taking a sabbatical from work for medical treatment. However, Sanjay Dutt didn't reveal about his ailment. Ahead of his initial treatment, Maanayata issued a statement to update about the actor's health, but refrained from speaking about the cancer diagnosis. A few weeks ago, the couple flew to Dubai to be with their children Shahraan and Iqra. Ballia (UP): BJP legislator from UP Surendra Singh hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday, alleging that he is a man of dual character" and foreign mentality" and he should learn nationalism and the countrys culture from nationalists". Singh was reacting to Gandhis tweet on his controversial statement on Saturday that rapes can only be stopped if parents teach sanskar (values) to their daughters". Gandhi reacted to Singhs remark, saying on Sunday, This is the filthy RSS male chauvinist mentality at work. Men do the raping but women need to be taught good values." He had also tagged a newspaper report on Singhs statement in his tweet. On Monday, the BJP legislator from Bairia constituency, in Ballia district, responded to Gandhi and said the former Congress president is totally ignorant" about the Indian culture. Rahul is a person of dual character and foreign mentality. He is totally ignorant about Indian culture," Singh told reporters at his residence. He will understand the definition of nationalism if he takes tuition from nationalists. He could not understand the crux of the countrys culture." The dual characters of Rahul and Priyanka (Gandhi Vadra) became obvious during their journey to meet the victims family in Hathras. While they were laughing during their journey, they shed tears at their homes," Singh claimed. The Congress leaders met the family on Saturday evening, after an earlier attempt by them was scuttled by Uttar Pradesh authorities, who briefly detained them and other Congress workers in Greater Noida outside Delhi. They have declared that they will fight for justice to the Dalit woman who died a fortnight after being allegedly gang raped on September 14. Speaking on the incidents of rape, the BJP legislator said, Immoral works cannot be stopped till the head of the family - the father or the mother - dont monitor the activities of the daughter or the son." For a cultured society", government and family support are necessary, Singh said, adding that he stands by his statement given earlier. Singh in his earlier statement had said, Its the duty of all mothers and fathers to imbibe good values in their daughters and bring them up in a cultured environment. I am a teacher and MLA. Such incidents (like rape) can be stopped only with sanskar not with governance or or might." . Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor People who used to be 'ugly ducklings' have been sharing their incredible before-and-after photographs - with some youngsters appearing completely unrecognisable. Social media users from around the world have taken to the Ugly Reddit subreddit in order to share their fantastic transformations from awkward teenagers into budding young adults. And now BoredPanda has compiled an online gallery of some of the most impressive makeovers. While some appear to simply involve trimming badly shaped beards, carefully cutting hair and losing a little weight, others look like totally different people. Social media users from around the world have taken to the Ugly Reddit subreddit in order to share their fantastic transformations from awkward teenagers into budding young adults (pictured left, one man pictured aged 16, and right, aged 20) One woman, believed to be from the UK, said even her family find it hard to recognise her as she shared a photograph as a 12-year-old and one aged 24 One man revealed how learning to shave and 'escape the neck beard' had helped him transform as a teenager (pictured left, at 16, and right, at 19) 10 years difference: One woman shared a snap of herself aged 13 wearing glasses and braces, while a decade on she is unrecognisable (left, aged 13, and right, 23) Another woman, believed to be from the US, shared a beaming no-makeup selfie to create a 'better comparison' with her teenage self (pictured left, aged 15, and right, aged 23) 'Still feel a lot like the kid on the left': One American man posted a shot as he enjoyed Scouts club as a twelve year old, as well as a photograph now (right, aged 26) One woman, from the US, documented her makeover from 11-years-old to 20, saying she 'owed a lot' to contacts, braces, and filled in her eyebrows 'I learned how to smile!' One woman, whose location is unknown, posted two selfies next to one another and taken 17 years apart (left, aged 11, and right, aged 28) Six years difference! One man revealed how losing weight had transformed his appearance from teenage life into adulthood What a glow up! Another woman, believed to be from the US, was barely recognisable after changing her look completely from the age of 13 (left) to age 34 (right) One man, from Florida, said puberty 'really hit him hard' at the age of 13 and he ended up 'shooting up to 6ft 8in (pictured left, before at 13, and right, after at 21) What a difference a decade makes! One person, believed to be from the UK, was unrecognisable from his teenage photograph (pictured left, aged 13, and right, aged 25) One man, 24, whose location is unknown, said he had been 'bullied a lot growing up' as he shared a side-by-side aged 17 and now (pictured left, as a teenager and right, now) What a transformation! Another man revealed the difference several years and a different hair cut could make to your appearance (pictured left, aged 16, and right, at 20) And it's not just the kids doing it! One woman, from the US, shared a snap from her twenties as she insisted 'life begins at 40' with her updated photograph (pictured left, aged 25, and right, aged 40) Over the past few months, coronavirus-induced lockdown has completely changed the lives of many. Several people from different walks of life are struggling to survive since March, when the lockdown was imposed, to meet their basic needs. Even though the government has announced some relaxations in lockdown restrictions, but returning back to normalcy continues to be a challenge for many. Several teachers of top educational institutions in Telangana have been forced into other trades and jobs to eke out a living, even after the ease of lockdown in graded manner. There are endless stories about how a physical education teacher becomes a chai-wallah (tea seller), high school teacher has started stitching clothes, and another teacher who now works in a water bottling plant. On September 5, a 35-year-old Papa Rao, a state-level Kabaddi player and a physical education teacher at a private school in Hyderabad, decided to sell his wifes gold chain to set up a tea stall. He has been working in a private school, but hadnt received any salary since March. From tea stall, now he earns Rs 4,000 a month. When I ran out of my savings, I even worked as daily wage labour to feed my family and support my daughters education who is a bright student. I reached out to the school management multiple times but all my pleas have fallen on deaf ears. Never in my dreams had I imagined to see myself struggling like this", Rao said, as he scrolled through photos of him with his students, who have been his biggest support during this dark period. With Covid-19 striking at their revenues, most private schools in Hyderabad have recalled only 15 per cent of its staff on an as-needed basis. The remaining teachers have been put on standby without any salary or incentive for over seven months now. Some of the private schools that News18 reached out, claim that there has been a steep decline in their income as they are charging only tuition fees from students as mandated by the Telangana government. We are aware of the crisis that private teachers are going through but allied expenses like building rent, electricity and high maintenance costs aggravated by Covid-19 has forced us to scale down our operations, a principal of a top private school in Hyderabad said. Similarly, 32-year-old Mahadev, a physical education teacher, who now works at a water treatment plant, earning less than half the salary he used to make as a teacher. Private teachers have lost their value, my source of income has halved, I am doing random jobs to support my family, I have no choice, it is very difficult to keep myself motivated," he said. High school teacher Subhalakshmi too has remained unpaid for six months. She finally received half a months salary in August, but constantly lives in the fear of losing her job. I wont call it salary; we are being paid wages and treated like slaves," she told News18. After 17 years of service, Subhalakshmi has now turned to tailoring to support her family. While cash-strapped private schools are going overboard with their austerity measures, Mahadev and other teachers have hit the streets seeking the state governments intervention into the matter. According to the Telangana Private Teachers Forum, there are nearly 12,000 old government-recognised private schools that have not paid salaries to nearly two lakh teachers for over seven months now. At least 5 teachers have died by suicide since April. The state government must provide unemployment allowance to private teachers who have been laid off. We also demand a government-regulated body for private teachers to address their grievances. The state government has only been making tall promises, but no action, said TPTF president Shabbir Ali. Raines International, one of the countrys leading talent consulting and executive search firms, announced today that Ms. Kathryn Bardi and Ms. Melissa Oszustowicz have joined as Senior Vice Presidents, reinforcing the companys leadership position in the industry. In the third quarter, Raines grew its business by more than 125%, expanded its team by 25%, and launched a Security Officers practice. Mr. Dan Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Raines, said: We have seen tremendous growth in our business, distinctly showing that the industries and companies most in-demand now are seeking exceptional talent that we can develop and deliver. We are committed to identifying and advising difference makers in the world, and we are extremely proud and excited to welcome Kathryn and Melissa to Raines. They are extraordinary leaders in their respective areas of expertise, and they will deliver an exceptional level of service to our clients. Ms. Bardi has joined as Senior Vice President in the Leadership & Organizational Transformation Practice and will be based in Chicago. Ms. Bardi joins Raines from Bain & Company, where she was Senior Manager People and Organization, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, advising clients and teams on talent strategy within technology, finance, healthcare, and oil & gas. She led the firms global efforts on unconscious bias mitigation, inclusive culture, and employee engagement. Prior to Bain, Ms. Bardi was a Senior Research & Solutions Consultant at the NeuroLeadership Institute, where she designed human capital initiatives for Fortune 500 companies, operationalizing neuroscience research to inform leadership development, business transformation, and diversity & inclusion. A graduate of Columbia University in New York, Ms. Bardis background is in neuroscience, specifically affective neuroscience with a research focus on the anti-correlated function between the default mode network and executive prefrontal functionality. Kathryns thought leadership places her at the forefront in educating global clients on the most in-demand subject matter of our time, said Dr. Scott Thomas, Managing Director at Raines and Head of the Leadership & Organizational Transformation practice. Her knowledge and passion will make an immediate difference and strengthen our teams ability to advise clients and candidates with impact. Ms. Melissa Oszustowicz has joined as Senior Vice President and Head of the Agribusiness Practice, based in Minneapolis. She joins Raines from Heidrick & Struggles, where she was a Principal in the Industrial Practice, leading agribusiness and food for North America. Prior to that, she was the C.E.O. of an agricultural risk management company serving the United States Department of Agriculture, and other private and public clients in the United States and Pacific Rim. She also served as legal counsel for a large cacao and chocolate company and led the work for the development of a genetic repository located in Hawaii. She began her career in Torts Litigation with General Electric and as an Attorney with Arnold & Porter in Washington, D.C. Over the course of her career, Ms. Oszustowicz has focused on how technology impacts agribusiness on a local and global scale, and her network extends across government to educational institutions and the private sector. Ms. Oszustowicz holds a J.D. Degree from Syracuse University College of Law, a Masters Degree from the S.I. Newhouse School of Communications at Syracuse University, and a Bachelors Degree in environmental science and government from Bowdoin College. Mr. Patrick Gray, Managing Director and Head of the firms Industrial, Aerospace and Defense Practice, said Ms. Oszustowicz will play a critical role in the teams expansion. Melissa is a dynamic executive with tremendous talent, credentials, and ambition. She is a transformational leader and advisor whose sector expertise serves one of our key target growth sectors globally. Change is going to happen in the agribusiness sector, and those who embrace it take the Raines. About Raines International: Raines International is an advisory firm committed to making a difference with executive search, organizational consulting, and talent management solutions. Raines is headquartered in New York City with eight offices across the Americas. Raines specializes in senior-level leadership placements across industries and functions. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of Canada Francois-Philippe Champagne has announced about the suspension of arms supplies to Turkey, particularly devices used for UAVs, ARMENPRESS was informed from the Ministers twitter page. The Minister added that there have been several allegations about Canadian technologies being used in Nagorno Karabakh conflict. Upon learning these allegations, I immediately directed the Global Affairs Canada to investigate these claims, he said, adding that I have suspended the relevant export permits to Turkey so as to allow time to further assess the situation. On October 3 Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau announced that Canada has to clarify how the military equipment supplied to Turkey have appeared in Azerbaijan. Experts had examined the footage of the Azerbaijani air force and come to the conclusion that the UAVs used by Azerbaijan were equipped with targeting and recording systems produced by L3Harris Technologies companys Canadian branch. The Globe and Mail periodicals informed that the mentioned company had received a permit earlier this year to provide Turkish Baykar company specialized in UAV production with 7 of those systems. According to the Canadian law, sales of arms is prohibited if it can be used for violating international humanitarian laws of human rights. Turkey-backed Azerbaijan unleashed war against Artsakh on September 27. Mercenaries and jihadists have been deployed by Turkey in Azerbaijan to fight against Armenians. The Azerbaijani armed forces target civilians and civilian infrastructures, killing dozens and causing great damage to the property. Azerbaijan targets also civilians in the Republic of Armenia. A civilian died as a result of a drone strike, and a bus was exploded (no one was inside). Another civilian was killed in the Republic of Armenia as a result of Azerbaijani shelling in Mets Masrik village. A Turkish F-16 fighter jet downed an Armenian SU-25 jet in the Armenian air space on September 29. The pilot could not survive. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan The regional government of Castilla y Leon decided on Monday to confine the cities of Leon and Palencia given the rising number of coronavirus infections detected there over at least the last 14 days. The measure, which will come into force tomorrow, was confirmed via Twitter this morning by the regional premier, Alfonso Fernandez Manueco, as well as by the regional health chief, Veronica Casado. The decision to confine Leon and Palencia will not come as a surprise to residents of the cities. Palencia had already been subject to capacity restrictions in public places given the high infection rates there. Leon was also on the radar of the regional government, known as the Junta, and the mayor of the city, Jose Antonio Diez, had been calling for restrictions on social meetings in recent days. A health worker performs a PCR test in Leon at the beginning of September. J. Casares (EFE) Both cities currently exceed the limits that were introduced last week by the central government for restrictions to be applied: the cumulative incidence of coronavirus infections over the last two weeks exceeds 500 cases per 100,000 inhabitants: the positivity rate of PCR tests exceeds 10%; and intensive care units (ICUs) in the region have an average occupation rate above 35%. The cumulative incidence of coronavirus infections has risen to 536.71 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in Palencia, and 510.45 cases in Leon. The regional average is 374.3 cases. Leon, with 124,000 inhabitants, and Palencia, with 78,000, will be subject to a perimetral confinement, with the same measures that have been implemented in Madrid. These include closing times for establishments at 11pm with the last customer permitted to enter an hour earlier, and capacity in bars and restaurants limited to 50% indoors and 60% outside. The regional government decided to apply the restrictions which will be in place for 14 days to Palencia, even though the city has fewer than 100,000 inhabitants, which is one of the criteria of the Health Ministrys new rules. The premier of Castilla y Leon, Alfonso Fernandez Manueco, of the conservative Popular Party (PP), said the measures were aimed at protecting the health of the people in the two cities, while the mayor of Leon, Antonio Diez of the Socialist Party (PSOE), called on residents to act responsibly and limit social gatherings. On Saturday, the regional government also renewed restrictions in Iscar and Pedrajas de San Esteban, which have been confined for the past two weeks after community transmission was detected in the two municipalities. Both areas exceeded the incidence threshold in August following an outbreak linked to a poultry processing plant. According to figures released on Monday by the Castilla y Leon health department, the region recorded 406 new coronavirus cases, 44 of which were diagnosed in the last 24 hours, and six new deaths. The regional premier of Castilla-La Mancha, meanwhile, is opting to wait 10 days before implementing similar restrictions to see whether the confinements that went into force in 10 Madrid cities on Friday including the Spanish capital have the desired effect of lowering infection rates. Madrid has a problem and its greater than the rest, Emiliano Garcia-Page said during an interview with Spanish TV channel Antena 3. But the problem is national, he added, in reference to the effect that high infection rates in the Madrid region have had on neighboring regions such as his. Restrictions in Aragon The regional government of Aragon decided on Monday to introduce new restrictions in the cities of Zaragoza and Huesca from October 8 to 15 in a bid to reduce crowds over the Virgen del Pilar long weekend, which coincides with Spains National Day on October 12. The municipality of La Almunia in Zaragoza province will be confined from Tuesday due to the rising number of coronavirus cases detected there. While the average cumulative incidence of the coronavirus in Zaragoza has remained stable at between 200 and 300 cases per 100,000 inhabitants over the past few weeks, in La Almunia, the rate is more than 1,000 cases. Capacity at shows and cultural events will remain at 75% where preassigned seating options are available. Normality in the Madrid region In Madrid, residents of 10 cities woke up on Monday to their first working day under the new restrictions imposed by the central government last week, and implemented on Friday night by the regional authorities. Traffic on the A-1 highway near Sanchinarro in the Madrid region. SANTI BURGOS (EL PAIS) Under the measures, residents of the areas that have been subjected to a perimetral confinement the Spanish capital and the surrounding cities of Alcala, Alcobendas, Alcorcon, Fuenlabrada, Getafe, Leganes, Mostoles, Parla and Torrejon are still permitted to travel for work reasons, among other exceptions. As such, traffic at rush hour was similar to the usual, while demand for public transportation was also at levels seen in recent weeks. There were few police checkpoints, and anyone who is found to be breaching the rules will not, for now, be fined. Penalties are due to be enforced once the Madrid High Court rules on whether the new measures are legal. The regional government has also filed an appeal against the central governments plans at the Audiencia Nacional, the Spanish High Court, on the basis that they encroach on their competencies. By Monday lunchtime, the High Court had rejected the urgent suspension of the measures as requested by a private individual. The court will now consider the regional governments request for them to be suspended, albeit not urgently. According to Madrids education chief, Enrique Ossorio, 1,740 classes have been suspended across the region, with 13,856 students placed under quarantine. Only three childrens schools have been closed in the capital, he said. With reporting by Juan Navarro, Idoia Ugarte and Victoria Torres Benayas. English version by Simon Hunter. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 13:27:34|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The development of fintech, green finance and new business forms will help boost the business transformation of the banking sector, a report released by the Bank of China said. Beefing up green finance will help the sector further optimize its asset structure and achieve diverse development, said the report. In addition, the banking sector should tap into the general trend of the digital economy, leverage new leading technologies such as blockchains, big data and cloud computing as well as promote online payments to satisfy new consumer demands. The running of the banking industry is expected to be more prudent on the back of the steady economic recovery, the report noted. Enditem Jon Gingerich Admit it: this probably wasnt the October surprise you envisioned. Theres an appreciable irony in the news that President Trump and First Lady Melaniaas well as Kellyanne Conway, Hope Hicks, Chris Christie and a veritable clown car of Trump notableshad tested positive for COVID-19. But I cant help but feel this might also be the development that shuts down the circus for good. Call it karma, call it poetic justice. One things for sure: Its impossible to quantify at present how this unforeseen turn of events will affect Trumps re-election (youre wrong if you think Donnys diagnosis automatically seals the deal for Joe Biden). On the other hand, its not controversial to surmise that, with only a month out until Election Day, this turn of events has dumped cold water on Trumps campaign, given in-person rallies and debates have been put on hold during the final stretch of a race for which poll after poll indicates hes losing. Worse, Trump is now personally responsible for seeing the national conversation return to a crisis he pretended wasnt real (How exactly do you contract a hoax that affects virtually nobody and will be gone by Easter anyway?). Its cringeworthy enough to get the China Virus days after ridiculing Biden for wearing a mask; falling victim to a pandemic he downplayed for months undercuts critical elements of his reelection message: it exposes his mishandling of the virus, confirms the country remains in uncertain territory and reinforces the notion that hes failed to address a disaster thats killed more than 200,000 Americans. Four more years, anyone? Trump re-wrote the election playbook. He galvanized a populist movement by addressing the grievances of a sizable portion of the electorate who hadnt been represented in election cycles for decades. He proved that emotions matter more than metrics in politics, that you need to go where the energy issomething Biden still needs to figure outessentially running on a promise to return America to halcyon days that never really existed. And until COVID happened, when the economy was booming and unemployment was under four percent, it was beyond clear that hed clobber Biden in a general election and waltz into a second term. Politics always distorts reality to a degree, but Trumps supporters live in a special kind of fantasy world. Again, this speaks to his persuasiveness. Trumps a con man whos arguably the least capable and most incompetent American president in history, but Ill be damned if he doesnt know how to hook an audience, develop a product and sell it to the hilt. And for four years, the rest of us have been waiting for the spell to break, for the Trump cargo cult to arrive at a nadir, some moral bottom that doesnt exist. Virtually every month since he announced his candidacy five years ago, theres been another bridge too far, another he really did it this time moment. And yet nothing seemed to give. The lies, the bullying, the name calling, the conspiracy theories, the idiotic tweets. It didnt matter that he cheated on his taxes or cheated on his wives or cheated his way out of Vietnam. It didnt matter that he courted white supremacists or kept migrant kids in cages or cozied up to dictators or referred to soldiers as losers and suckers. The most fascinating thing about the Trump era is that it has put into focus a phenomenon that essentially amounts to a willful denial of reality when you finally get what you want after being on the losing side of the culture wars for three decades. It isnt unlike the psychology of abusive relationships: make me feel wanted, and Ill excuse any behavior you throw at me. Trumps recklessness, boorishness and callousness are recast as instances of craft. Years of consecutive financial losses are somehow the makings of a shrewd businessman. Anytime he makes an absurd statementlike advocating injecting disinfectant to kill the coronavirushes somehow both making a medically-sound claim and telling a joke at the same time. The us versus them mindset in our political discourse has reached such dizzying heights that we now reside in a sort of quasi-parodic Black Mirror episode where everyone gets their own personalized confabulation of reality. His supporters endorse the tortuous logic that something is true only when you want to believe it. Whats wrong for everyone else is fine when our camp does it. The loudest voice in the room wins. And now, after nearly four years of incompetency, philistinism and science denial, this comedy of errors has arrived at an inevitablealbeit unexpectedconclusion: Trump has contracted a disease many of his followers didnt even believe existed. Its a stunning development, not only due to the fact that Trumps own diagnosis lays bare his mishandling of the pandemic, but because for the first time, he and his supporters have finally been forced to contend with reality. Trump has become a victim of his own failures. Hes now been placed in the unenviable position of showing by example what happens when you know the risks but ignore the science and refuse to take the proper precautions. The illusion has failed, or as Trump said himself: it is what it is. Imperial Valley News Center Department of Justice Files Statement of Interest Supporting Capitol Hill Baptist Church's Efforts to Practice its Faith During COVID-19 Washington, DC - The Justice Department Friday filed a statement of interest in federal district court in Washington, D.C., arguing the Constitution and federal law require the District of Columbia to accommodate Capitol Hill Baptist Churchs effort to hold worship services outdoors, at least to the same extent the District of Columbia allows other forms of outdoor First Amendment activity, such as peaceful protests. The statement of interest was filed in Capitol Hill Baptist Church v. Bowser, a case challenging the District of Columbias refusal to allow outdoor worship because of the citys COVID-19 restrictions. The suit challenges the permit denial under the Free Speech and Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment, and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). The suit alleges that while places of worship are limited to 100 people at outdoor worship services, these limits do not apply to, among other things, outdoor protests and rallies accommodating thousands. The right to free exercise of religion and the right to protest are both enshrined in the First Amendment of the Constitution, said Eric Dreiband, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. We are a nation dedicated to freedom of conscience and freedom of expression. The District of Columbia has, unfortunately, neglected these rights. The Justice Department is committed to defending both of these fundamental freedoms and in supporting all Americans rights to worship as they choose. One of the most foundational rights protected by the Bill of Rights is the free exercise of religion, said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Sherwin for the District of Columbia. The Justice Department is committed to upholding all the civil rights protected under the first amendment, be it peaceable assembly in protest or practicing faith. Capitol Hill Baptist Church is a church of more than 850 members with a strong religious conviction that it should meet in person as a complete body for worship each Sunday. It therefore sought a permit to hold worship outdoors in excess of the 100-person limit, which the city denied. The United States brief explains there is no constitutional or statutory basis for allowing protests and rallies attended by thousands of people, while at the same time silencing religious worship. The brief also explains the city bears a high burden of proof to justify its actions under the First Amendment and RFRA because its actions impose a substantial burden on religious exercise, as the church has shown here. The statement of interest is part of Attorney General William P. Barr's initiative, announced April 27, directing Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, Eric Dreiband, and the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan, Matthew Schneider, to review governmental policies around the country to ensure that civil liberties are protected during the COVID-19 pandemic. He's now the longest person to be battling coronavirus in the UK. And Kate Garraway, 53, has revealed that her children haven't seen their father Derek Draper, also 53, in six months as he continues to battle the disease in hospital. Derek has been in intensive care and was in a coma for months after the virus made him seriously ill and Kate herself, has only been permitted to visit a handful of times. 'It would benefit him': Kate Garraway revealed her two children havent seen their father Derek Draper in six months as he continues to battle coronavirus (stock photo) Kate and Derek, who married in September 2005, are parents to Darcey, 14, and William, 11 and the GMB host believes that a visit from his children would aid Derek's recovery. She said on the show on Monday: 'Derek still hasn't been allowed... his children can't visit, his mum and dad haven't seen him. 'I personally believe actually believe him having contact in that room could possibly be of great benefit to have a physical presence. Kate said on GMB on Monday: 'I personally believe actually believe him having contact in that room could possibly be of great benefit to have a physical presence' 'There are children that have died with their mums and dads not allowed to see them.' During the show, Kate criticised Donald Trump after he took part in an impromptu 'drive-by' to surprise his supporters outside the Walter Reed hospital. He was diagnosed with coronavirus last week. Painful: Derek remains seriously ill in hospital and has been there since March after contracting the virus (pictured in December 2019) She said: 'When you look at that footage of him doing that by the hospital, obviously his message is "I'm doing, I'm fighting the virus great, I'm here to win the election", but that plays into the idea if you get the coronavirus and survive then you're a hero; you're not. You're very lucky. 'The heroes are the people treating you and helping you to survive and he;s not just putting the people in the car at risk he's putting the people treating him at risk.' Meanwhile, Kate also revealed that actor Dominic West 'personally apologised' to her after he said he 'jumped for joy' over Donald Trump's COVID diagnosis. The presenter said he 'wasn't aware' that Derek was still unwell when he said on Friday's show, that he had 'jumped for joy' upon learning Trump has coronavirus. Apologies: On Monday, Kate revealed that actor Dominic West 'personally apologised' to her after he said he 'jumped for joy' over Donald Trump's COVID diagnosis Discussing his comments, Kate said: 'I was surprised because I don't think Dominic meant, well he's been in touch directly with me, to apologise personally to me. 'He wasn't aware that Derek had coronavirus and was still sick and was worried that I had been upset by it. I wasn't upset for those reasons, I was surprised because I went on to say afterwards, I'm sure you join us in wishing him [Trump] the very best. 'Personally, whatever your views may be. I don't think he meant that, I think he's not a Trump supporter. 'I think it's a symptom of Donald Trump's behaviour throughout this pandemic he's appeared to thumb his nose in it and he was jumping for joy at the idea he might now feel the effects of it. A reality check.' Apology: The presenter, 53, said Dominic West had apologised and 'wasn't aware' her husband Derek, 53, was 'still sick' with coronavirus Coronavirus: On Friday's show, Dominic was heavily criticised for explaining how he 'jumped for joy' upon learning President Trump has coronavirus She added: 'I don't believe Dominic West would wish someone ill.' Discussing Donald Trump's messages throughout his treatment, Kate continued: 'That plays into the idea... you get coronavirus, you survive, you're a hero. You're not, you're very lucky, the heroes are the people treating you and helping you to survive.' Giving an update about Derek, who has been in hospital battling coronavirus since March, she said: 'Derek, who has no longer tested positive for coronavirus, children aren't allowed to see him, his mum and dad haven't seen him.' Also discussing Dominic's comments on Friday's show, co-host Piers Morgan called them 'unacceptable'. Speaking out: Discussing his comments on Monday's show, Kate said: 'I was surprised because I don't think Dominic meant, well he's been in touch directly with me, to apologise personally to me.' He said: 'You can have whatever view you like of Donald Trump, I've had very positive views of him and this year very negative views of him. A lot of people love him, a lot of people hate it. 'It doesn't matter though, if a human being gets coronavirus, which we know has killed one million people, if a human being is in his 70s, has underlying weight issues and so on, therefore quite a lot of risk. 'Forget Trump's behaviour, forget everything for the moment, as a human being, to say you jump for joy when someone gets coronavirus. 'To say it frankly, when you have a presenter on this show whose husband is still in a coma. I found that unacceptable.' She added: 'He wasn't aware that Derek had coronavirus and was still sick and was worried that I had been upset by it. I wasn't upset for those reasons, I was surprised because I went on to say afterwards, I'm sure you join us in wishing him [Trump] the very best.' 'How vile and evil to get joy from the suffering of others:' GMB viewers slammed Dominic on Friday for telling Kate he 'jumped for joy' over Trump's Covid diagnosis It comes after Dominic was heavily criticised for explaining how he 'jumped for joy' upon learning President Trump has coronavirus. The Wire actor, 50, didn't hold back when asked for his views on Trump's positive result on Friday after the President, 74, had minimised the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic for months. Appearing on video link from his Wiltshire home, Dominic was branded 'evil' and 'disgusting' after saying: 'Well I did slightly leap in the air with joy. 'I think the phrase is "what goes around comes around". I just hope it doesn't interfere with him being elected out of office that's all.' Slammed: Viewers took to Twitter to slam Dominic for revelling in another person's ill health He was far from the only left-wing social media user to take delight in the President's diagnosis with many advancing theories that his illness would harm his chances in the presidential election on November 3. Kate questioned if Dominic was suggesting he wished Trump well on a personal level, but perhaps felt this was karmic given that Trump had previously downplayed the virus. The actor's words were somewhat tone deaf, given that Kate's husband Derek, 53, has become the longest patient battling coronavirus in hospital in the UK as he enters his seventh month in hospital. Dominic said: 'Well there's an element of schadenfreude I suppose. 'I'm not a fan of his, as you can probably tell, and I just hope Biden stays healthy and gets the presidency as quickly as possible. I think Trump is a catastrophe for America and the world.' Mixed bag: Other viewers agreed that Dominic was right to mock Trump given how much he has downplayed the virus It's fair to say that lots of people on social media had called it 'karma' that Trump had been diagnosed following his recent downplaying of the virus. Dominic also added that he hoped the diagnosis would make Trump supporters take the virus more seriously than they had in the past. While the US President is certainly a divisive figure, some viewers felt as though Dominic shouldn't have rejoiced over someone getting a potentially fatal virus. They took to Twitter in their droves to write: 'I have never heard of Dominic West before. I wonder when the Karma bus will be trundling toward his family? What a vile, evil person he is to obtain joy from the suffering of others.' Reaction: Fawlty Towers star John Cleese also reacted on Twitter to Trump's announcement Lord Sugar posted: 'Will he [Trump] finally wake up and realise this is a dangerous pandemic' David Bowie's son wrote: 'How do germophobic sociopaths tend to react to getting sick?' 'Disgusted with @GMB interview with @DominicWest taking delight in @POTUS positive COVID test. No matter your politics, evil to wish ill on others. '@kategarraway how did you accept this and smile given your husbands COVID history?' 'Disgusted with @GMB interview with @DominicWest taking delight in @POTUS positive COVID test. No matter your politics, evil to wish ill on others.' Yet others agreed with him. They wrote: 'Brilliant Dominic West doesnt give a toss. When asked about Donald Trump, he was smiling it is what it is. Karma.' 'Hahahahahahaha love Dominic West. Saying it exactly as it is.' In quarantine: Trump announced that he and Melania were in quarantine after testing positive for COVID-19 'Dominic West was ace in the Wire. He's just topped that.' President Donald Trump said on Friday that he and his wife Melania had tested positive for COVID-19 and were going into quarantine, upending the race for the White House. He tweeted: 'We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER!' It comes after it was reported on Monday that Trump is getting 'bored' in the Walter Reed hospital and 'tiring' of watching TV coverage of his Covid-19 infection, his advisors say. The president has told aides he wants to return to the White House as early as today after doctors floated the possibility of a Monday discharge. But according to the Washington Post, some advisors see the possible return to the White House as a 'political decision' just weeks before the election. Trump's aides are also worried that an early release could backfire if his symptoms relapse and he is forced to return to Walter Reed, it is claimed. Two people close to Trump told the New York Times that the president had been 'hankering' to be discharged. The president has been 'exasperated' by TV coverage of his illness and speculation about him transferring powers to Vice President Mike Pence, aides said. Trump, 74, said in a Sunday video that he had 'learned a lot about Covid' by 'really going to school' as he battled the virus. The president then caused further controversy by briefly leaving the hospital and waving to supporters from a bulletproof car. More than 200,000 people have died from COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, in the United States alone, with the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions especially hard hit. The two-front war is not a talking point but a likelihood, especially given the all-weather, strategic nature of relations between China and Pakistan, says professor Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan. Professor Rajeswari Pillai Rajagopalan wears many hats. She is the author of four books (co-author/editor of five more) including one on Chinese military strategy, her research articles appear in edited volumes and peer-reviewed journals, she has words in publications such as Wall Street Journal, Times of India, Hindustan Times etc., and she is the senior Asia defence writer for The Diplomat where she tackles, among other things, Asian military and strategic issues. Rajagopalan is a Distinguished Fellow and Head of the Nuclear and Space Policy Initiative at ORF. Rajagopalan, who also had a five-year stint at the National Security Council Secretariat as assistant director, took some questions from Firstpost on the Sino-Indian border dispute, the current impasse and the road ahead. In a recent podcast, Ashley Tellis linked Indias decision of reading down Article 370 to Chinas aggression at the border, arguing that Beijings action may have been caused by a misreading of the policy. Do you see a connection between Chinese aggression and Indias Kashmir policy? Indias Kashmir policy, especially the organisation of Ladakh as a Union Territory directly under the control of New Delhi, could have contributed to Chinas aggression in Ladakh but so far it seems to be more of an excuse. China will have to tell us why this is important enough for them to risk war with India. But the Galwan clash is not just about Indias decision on Ladakh. In fact, even though the Doklam conflict in 2017 was resolved, many security analysts, including me, had predicted that this is only the beginning and that there would be many more crises similar to Doklam waiting to happen. There are two fundamental issues that need to be borne in mind. One is Chinas unwillingness to see another peer power that may be rising in its neighbourhood, which is how they appear to see India. So, the key question is if China is willing to see a rising India or a more normal Japan in the Indo-Pacific region. But Chinas efforts at balancing India is not new; it is part of the Chinese policy since the 1950s. As Indias role and prominence increase even marginally, Beijing seems to find it unacceptable. China would like to see a subservient and pliable India. A second critical factor is the growing power imbalance between both countries. It is so large that Beijing feels that it can bully India and that New Delhi will not respond. They have done this with others in the region too, so this is becoming a pattern. A third possible factor is a difference in approach to regional security architecture. China, for instance, has an exclusive approach to the emerging Asian strategic framework whereas India and to a large extent even Japan has an inclusive approach where New Delhi and Tokyo are willing to see the simultaneous rise of other powers. Even as both nations carry on with the consultative mechanism, India wants to restore status quo ante along the LAC as a precondition for normalcy in ties, while China is focused on restoring status quo ante in the bilateral relationship. How do you think this circle can be squared? It is somewhat strange that Indian statements after Sino-Indian defence and foreign ministers meetings do not refer to returning to the status quo ante. It appears as though India is merely seeking some pullback by the PLA but not a return to the status quo that prevailed in April. It is unclear why this is. Hopefully, the Indian government will be firm on this demand but so far, the signs are not good. It could be that the government of India thinks status quo ante cant be restored entirely. But a return to the status quo ante in the bilateral relationship is some distance away. Even if the PLA moved away and restoration of the status quo ante were to happen, which is doubtful, a return to normalcy in India-China bilateral relations may be difficult. The fact that China broke several of the commitments contained in the border agreements and CBMs starting from the 1993 agreement will have a serious impact in rebuilding the ties, as also the domestic political criticism of the governments handling of this issue. Given the fact that China has shown no further interest in disengagement, how do you see India respond if forced to accept this status quo both bilaterally and domestically? For all practical purposes, the Chinese military has crossed over into Indian territory and altered the status quo. With Beijing possibly thinking that it has the overall military balance in its favour, it is in no mood to disengage and return to positions prior to the Galwan clash. Bilaterally, this is possibly the worst scenario, of course, short of war. While India does not appear to be looking to return to Wuhan summitry bilaterally, New Delhi has shown some inclination to establish some semblance of normalcy in the relationship. However, this would still require Beijing to meet India at least halfway. Domestically, it is different if one were to look at the broad narrative that the Indian establishment has tried to create. The responses to questions at the Parliament suggests that there has been no deterioration in the relations between India and China, though this answer possibly was thoughtless rather than a deliberate statement of the governments view on China. But the defence ministers statement in Parliament also gives the impression that China only made the attempts at occupying Indian territory and they were effectively foiled by the Indian armed forces. If the PLA is not on Indian soil, it remains unclear why such serious diplomatic and military discussions are going on between India and China. Clearly, the Narendra Modi government has tried to create an alternate reality that all is well on the India-China front but the situation on the ground is very different. For a government that has batted so much on national security, the Galwan clash and the response are very disappointing. Is two-front war a possibility, or at least heightened opportunism from Pakistan? The two-front war is not a talking point but a likelihood, especially given the all-weather, strategic nature of relations between China and Pakistan. For more than a decade, officials such as former National Security Adviser Brajesh Mishra and others have talked about the need for India to be prepared for a two-front war. Of all the countries in South Asia, Chinas strategic interests converge with those of Pakistan the most, and they both continue to have grievances against India. This is not something that arose in the past decade because of closer US-India relations, but this has been part of the strategic thinking in both Beijing and Islamabad at least since the early 1960s. To keep India off-balance and embroiled in conflicts internally and externally has remained a guiding strategic objective for both countries. Past agreements and protocols to manage the differences over LAC need urgent revision, a point evident in the 5-point consensus reached between both sides in Moscow. Do you view the renewed friction an inevitable trajectory of history given the near-simultaneous rise of both nations, or was this avoidable from two rational actors? If one were to look at history, India, China and Japan have held hegemonic positions at different points of time, but the situation today is different. The simultaneous rise of all three powers in Asia is a perfect recipe for competition and rivalry. The fact that there are unresolved border and territorial issues among these countries complicates the dynamics in Asia. The baggage of history, with these countries having gone into war with each other, also weigh quite heavily in determining the shape and trajectory of their relationships. But recognising these realities, leaders from both India and China had developed certain border defence agreements to maintain peace and tranquility on the LAC. China was willing to play by those agreements so long as they were weak. But today, with a modern military and state-of-the-art infrastructure all along the border and in Tibet Autonomous Region, China does not feel the need to abide by these agreements and protocols. It almost lives by the age-old dictum that rules and regulations are for the weak, and once you are powerful, you dont need them. Two, the border agreements of 1993 and 1996 are some of the best confidence-building measures and protocols, but there have been significant flaws as well. For instance, though the LAC is being referred to in these agreements, it remains unclarified. Therefore, for all the good intentions, many of the important clauses have not implemented. Until recently, the chances of the two forces encountering each other during regular patrolling was minimal because of the lack of adequate infrastructure. With improved infrastructure and more regular patrolling, the chances of encounters have also gone up. Nevertheless, one must acknowledge that the Galwan clash was premeditated. In order to avoid suspicion from major troop build-up, they used one of the PLA exercises in the adjoining areas as a cover and then diverted them to the border areas in a short time. My final point here is that more CBMs and border agreements are not going to resolve the bilateral border issues between India and China, nor will it reduce the tensions because there are already some agreements in place to maintain peace and tranquility on the border. So, yes, the simultaneous rise is part of the problem. Do you see greater institutionalisation of the relationship between powers who feel threatened by China, or will issue-based coalitions replace security alliances? There will be both greater institutionalisation as well as a flurry of mini-laterals that will emerge in the Indo-Pacific driven by shared concerns about Chinas aggressive behaviour. Chinas continuing harassments and naval as well as land border intrusions have seen a particular increase in 2020. This has prompted several new partnerships such as Australia-India-France trilateral. Some of the older partnerships are getting a fresh lease of life, determined to collaborate on specific issues. The Japan-India-Australia supply chain resilience initiative is a case in point. The region will see a spurt of issue-based coalitions as well as broader security groupings in the coming years. Mumbai: Maharashtra State Transport Authority (STA) has decided to bring down the plying age limit of autorickshaws to 15 years, a transport department official said on Monday. As per the decision, autorickshaws older than 15 years wont be able to ply on roads from August 1, 2021 in the Mumbai Metropolitan region (MMR), while the deadline for the same in the rest of the state has been set as August 1, 2024. In MMR, the current age limit of autorickshaws is 16 years, while the same is 20 years in the rest of the state. The STA chaired by state transport secretary approved the decision in its meeting held on September 24, the official told PTI. As per the STA, the decision will be implemented in four stages between August 1, 2021 and August 1, 2024 in the rest of the state. The STA, a quasi-judicial body, took the decision to cap the age of autorickshaws on the basis of a recommendation to this effect made by a panel headed by former IAS officer BC Khatua. The Khatua committee had submitted its report to the state government in October 2017, which accepted majority of its suggestions including fixing the age of autorickshaws. In its report, Khatua panel had recommended to reduce the age cap of autos to 15 years in four stages between August 1, 2018 and August 1, 2021 excluding MMR. Maharashtra has over 10 lakh autorickshaws. Earlier, a decision to cap the plying age of autos to 16 years in MMR and 20 years in rest of the state was taken by the STA on August 1, 2013 on the basis of recommendations made by Hakim Panel, the official said, adding that the age limit of taxis was fixed at 20 years. Before 2013, autos had no age limit, though the STA had set 25 years as the age limit for taxis in 2010. Maharashtra Transport Commissioner Avinash Dhakane said the STA had taken the decision based on a recommendation made by the Khatua panel. The state government had already accepted the recommendation of Khatua panel about fixing the age limit for autos. Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, STA has revised the deadlines," he said. Mumbai Autorickshaws Union leader Shashank Rao said the decision was illogical. I dont understand the logic behind reducing the age of auto-rickshaws by one year from 16 years to 15 years (in MMR)," he told reporters. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor The Lok Janshakti Party(LJP) on Sunday announced, after a meeting here in New Delhi its decision to go solo in the ensuing assembly election in Bihar. Let me enjoy the moment, said Chirag Paswan, the national president of the party responding to a question on whether the LJP has tied up with the BJP. Flashing a victory sign after a meeting of the partys central parliamentary board at his residence here, he said: I will not speak more but we will win the battle. Lok Janshakti Party will not contest the upcoming Bihar elections in alliance with Janata Dal (United) due to ideological differences, Abdul Khaliq, national general secretary, LJP said. Also Read: Lok Janshakti Party to contest Bihar assembly polls alone But the LJP clarified that their differences are with the JDU and not the BJP. At the national level and in Lok Sabha elections, Lok Janshakti Party shares a strong alliance with BJP and our candidate will fight the election against JDU on some seats, Khaliq said. The LJP will put up candidates against Nitish Kumars JDU, however, the party will not field its candidates against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Todays meeting was earlier scheduled to be held on Saturday but was postponed after Chirag Paswans father Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, was hospitalised and later underwent heart surgery at a hospital in Delhi. Also Read| Bihar Assembly Election 2020: Congress set to finalise first list of candidates today Chirag had meanwhile yesterday shared his Bihar first Bihari first a vision document of the LJP on Twitter. He said that the document has been inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and sought that the people of the state will bless him to make Bihar first and restore its pride so that all my candidates could strengthen the hands of the prime minister. The Bihar assembly polls will be held in three phases on October 28, November 3, and November 7, and the counting of votes will take place on November 10. Its no longer a mystery that Toyota is planning to deliver a road-going hypercar soon. It was showcased as a concept car back in 2018 and as a prototype during the 2020 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. The hypercar will be based on Toyotas new race car built for the Le Mans Hypercar class. As a homologation special, it will have to see a production run of at least 20 units. The hypercar is rumored to arrive with up to 1,400 horsepower, but we still dont know how its going to be called. The original concept was called the GR Super Sport , but a new trademark filing suggests it may have an alphanumeric name. Toyotas first hypercar could be called the GR 010 The Japanese company has yet to announce a name for its upcoming hypercar, but it recently submitted a trademark for the name GR 010. Filed with the European Union Intellectual Property Office on September 23, the trademark will be used on "automobiles and structural parts thereof." This doesnt necessarily mean that the road-legal supercar will feature this badge, but its a naming convention that Toyota has been using on race cars since the 1990s. A similar name was used for the first time in 1992 when Toyotas racing prototype for Group C was called the TS010. In 1998 and 1999, the companys race car for the GT1 and LMGTP categories was called the TS020. Starting 2012, Toyota raced LMP1 prototypes under the names TS030, TS040, and TS050. The latter brought Toyotas first overall win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and followed up with similar performance in 2019 and 2020. Will the new-generation race car be called the TS060? We dont know. But a GR 010 badge for a road-going model, where GR stands for Gazoo Racing, Toyotas motorsport division, makes a lot of sense. The GR 010 wont be Toyotas first supercar based on a racing prototype The upcoming GR 010 wont be Toyotas first road-legal supercar. The Japanese company built one back in 1998 when it was forced to do so by FIA rules to homologate the TS020, also known as the GT-One. The TS020 was developed as a competitor for the Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR and Porsche 911 GT1, when regulations required for the race cars to be based on road-going models and feature a trunk. But because Toyota joined the series a bit later, it was no longer required to build 25 road-going cars, like Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. Only one road car was required, and Toyota eventually built two. Both of them are displayed in museums, so the TS-One wasnt actually a production model, with none sold to the public. So while the GR 010 wont be the first of its kind, it will be the first to become available to customers since Toyota needs to make 20 to homologate the race car. Toyota GR 010 - what we know so far The original concept car featured a twin-turbo, 2.4-liter V-6 engine rated at 986 horsepower, but it seems that the production model will be much more powerful than that. Word has it Toyota is still going to use the gasoline V-6, but it will add three electric motors and a battery. Total output is said to hit the 1,400-horsepower mark, which will enable the GR 010 to hit 62 mph in just 2.5 seconds. The road-legal model will look very similar to the race car, so expect it to boast an aggressive exterior design with advanced aero features, a pointy nose, and a canopy-style cockpit with gullwing doors or even a removable top. Toyota will reveal a more advanced concept version in November 2020, and we should find out more about it then. Source: EUIPO Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden boards his campaign plane in Michigan on Friday, Oct. 2, 2020. Read more Joe Biden Town Hall in Miami Date: Monday, Oct. 5 Time: 8 p.m. Eastern Location: Perez Art Museum Miami TV: NBC, MSNBC, CNBC Less than an hour after President Donald Trump still being treated for COVID-19 returned to the White House, former Vice President Joe Biden will take the stage for a town hall that will air live on NBC Monday night. Biden appeared on stage with Trump during last weeks presidential debate, and its possible the president had already been infected with coronavirus prior to the event. The former vice president has since tested negative for COVID-19 multiple times most recently Sunday night, according to his campaign. Mondays town hall will be held outdoors at Perez Art Museum Miami in downtown Miami, featuring a socially distanced audience of about 60 people, NBC said. Attendees will be required to wear face masks, and everyone will have their temperature checked prior to entering, according to a spokesperson. It will air live on NBC, MSNBC, and CNBC. The NBC town hall could be a preview of the second presidential debate, which is scheduled to take place Oct. 15 in Miami. If Trump is not healthy enough to attend or is held back out of fear of spreading the virus, Bidens campaign said the former vice president would participate in the second debate a town hall format that will be moderated by C-SPAN political editor Steve Scully by himself. We are hoping President Trump can participate. Were hoping that hes medically able to participate, and that is up to his doctors to clear him," Symone Sanders, a senior Biden campaign adviser, said during an interview on CNN Sunday. "But Joe Biden will be at that debate. Heres everything you need to know to watch and stream Monday nights town hall on NBC: How can I watch and stream Bidens Miami town hall? The town hall, which will air live on NBC, MSNBC, and CNBC, is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Eastern and last about an hour. You can stream the town hall on the NBC News app and on NBCNews.com. The networks are also available on several so-called skinny bundles, including fuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and AT&T Now. You can also stream it here, courtesy of NBC News: Who will be moderating Bidens town hall? Moderating the town hall will be Lester Holt, the anchor of NBC Nightly News. Holt has been with NBC News since 2003, and has hosted NBC Nightly News since 2015, replacing Brian Williams, who falsely claimed his helicopter had been hit by enemy fire while covering the Iraq War. Holt moderated the first presidential debate between Trump and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in 2016. Prior to the debate, Trump famously complained that Lester is a Democrat," despite Holt being a registered Republican at the time. In 2018, Holt officially removed his party affiliation and registered as an independent. Holt is probably best known in political circles for getting Trump to admit he had fired former FBI Director James Comey due to his investigation into Russian interference during the 2016 election. Biden sat for an interview with Holt in January, but the pre-coronavirus conversation feels like a lifetime ago, with topics centered around the assassination of Iranian General Qassem Suleimani and the then-undecided Democratic primary. But Trumps tax returns, which have returned to the news recently thanks to a New York Times investigation, did come up. Stop talking about corruption, Mr. President, unless you release your tax returns, Biden said. Hush up. Step up. Recent stories about the 2020 election 2020 presidential debate schedule The Trump and Biden campaigns have agreed to three debates during the 2020 election. The first debate was held last week in Ohio, and the remaining two are in doubt after Trump contracted coronavirus. Oct. 15: Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami, moderated by C-SPAN Political Editor Steve Scully Oct. 22: Belmont University in Nashville, Tenn., moderated by NBC News White House correspondent (and Philadelphia native) Kristen Welker A debate between Harris and Vice President Mike Pence is scheduled for Wednesday at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. USA Today Washington bureau chief Susan Page will be the moderator, and the Commission on Presidential Debates agreed to increase the distance between Harris and Pence to 12 feet apart. Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain The new contract tracing software from Apple and Google is up and running now, but their use is not widespread. They only work in conjunction with official state apps, and most states aren't yet participating. U.S. TODAY found just 14 states with contract tracing apps in the Apple and Google app stores: New Jersey, New York, Arizona, North Carolina, Florida, Delaware, Virginia, Nevada, South and North Dakota, Wyoming, Alabama. Rhode Island and Pennsylvania. The New York and New Jersey apps just launched. Some states are testing the software now, before deciding whether to go forward. Arizona and California, for instance, are testing it now. "The purpose of the pilot is for the state, along with local health entities and academic partners, to study the efficacy of the app," said Dr. Erica Pan, California's Interim State Public Health Officer. Colorado, Connecticut, Maryland, Oregon, Washington and Washington, D.C., have announced plans to launch their apps, according to Google. Meanwhile, several countries have grabbed hold of the Apple/Google software to create their own contact tracing apps as well, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore and Saudi Arabia. The idea is that the Bluetooth signal from the phones send signals to others who have the apps. If you get diagnosed positive with COVID and you inform the app, messages are then sent to everyone you came in contact with. "If you have been exposed, your app will notify you and give you further instructions," says Google. The New York app, for instance, says it lets you "contribute to the health and safety of your community by alerting others if you yourself test positive, without revealing your identity to anyone." The ability to use the Apple and Google software is built in the iOS and Google mobile operating systems, it's by opt-in and you have to search for it. (Instructions on how to find them below.) As Google notes, "you choose to use the system," which sends randomly changing IDs that get alerted every 10 minutes to and from phones, anonymously. "If you've been exposed, your public health authority can notify you," notes Apple. Here's how to opt-in. On iOS: In the latest iOS 14 update, go to Settings: Look for Exposure Notifications, which is in-between Emergency SOS and Battery, and click "Turn on Exposure Notifications." Once clicked, Apple says, "your Public Health Authority can notify you of possible exposure to COVID-19." You then select your country and state. But if the state isn't participating, you won't get very far. "Exposure notifications have not been turned for your region," Apple tells people in states that aren't working with the system. For Google Android Open Settings: Tap Google and look for "COVID-19 Exposure Notifications." Turn it on. Look for a state app to add, from the App Store, searching for "Exposure Notifications," and a badge that looks like a red mini coronavirus. Google says "location," needs to be turned on and approved for all Android apps, which is the tool it uses to allow Google to follow you, even if the Google app isn't running, through drives, walks and searches. However, Google insists that the government agencies cannot "infer" your location while using the apps. 2020 USA Today Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Indian and Chinese military commanders are set to meet in Ladakh on October 12 for their seventh round of talks to reduce friction in the sector, but the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) is showing no signs of disengagement, deploying solar- and gas- heated troop containers and pitching snow tents on the ridgelines to defend its positions on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) . According to government officials with knowledge of the situation, the PLA has dug in for the winter, with each container accommodating some four to six soldiers, and with new hospital facilities coming up in the depth areas to cater to those suffering from altitude sickness or high-altitude pulmonary edema. While the Indian side believes that comprehensive disengagement and de-escalation will require multiple rounds of military and diplomatic dialogue, PLA commanders have complicated the drawdown by insisting that the Indian Army first disengage from the southern bank of Pangong Tso and the Rezang La-Rechin La ridgeline before the Chinese Army goes back from the Finger Four spur on the north bank of the salt water lake. Also Read | Modern PLA barracks, heavy artillery at LAC: China media While the PLA has transgressed into the Indian perception of LAC on the north bank, the Indian Army is holding ground on its perception of the LAC on the southern bank of the Pangong Tso. The Chinese, from their standpoint, believe that India has transgressed into their perception of LAC south of Pangong Tso. Also Watch | No question of China getting the better of us: IAF Chief on LAC standoff Indian military commanders say the PLA should withdraw first from the Finger Four spur on the north bank and restore status quo ante by going back to Finger Eight, as was the case in April 2020. According to them, since the Chinese first unilaterally changed the status on the north bank, they should withdraw first and establish trust. Given that the PLA have a road right up to their posts on the LAC, they will occupy positions on the Rezang La -Rechin La ridgeline the moment Indian troops withdraw from their current positions on the south bank. The Indian Army occupied these positions on the south bank through military manoeuvres on August 29-30 by pre-empting planned PLA aggression. With disengagement on both the north and south banks locked in a stalemate, it has also come to a halt in the Gogra-Hot Springs area, north of the lake, and the PLA is continuing its efforts to block patrols in the Depsang Bulge area. This has alerted the Indian army to possible Chinese move to transgress into the Indian side of the LAC before snowfall begins after October 15. Also Read | Modi, Xi to come face-to-face at virtual Brics Summit next month Even though the PLA Air Force activity is reduced in the area, its troops are deployed in full strength in occupied Aksai Chin and depth areas all the way up to Lhasa and Chengdu. The Indian Army and Air Force remain on high alert with similar troop strength and support systems. If China is looking for incentive from India to disengage from Ladakh, then it will have to wait for another time. The LAC status was unilaterally changed at the directions of PLA Commander-in-Chief Xi Jinping. It is he who has to restore status quo ante, said a senior South Block official who didnt want to be named. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany holds a press briefing at he White House on Sept. 22, 2020. (Saul Poeb/AFP via Getty Images) White House Press Secretary McEnany Tests Positive for COVID-19 White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said she tested positive for COVID-19, although she isnt exhibiting any symptoms. In an Oct. 5 announcement on Twitter, McEnany wrote that no reporters, producers, or members of the press are listed as close contacts by the White House Medical Unit. McEnany last took questions from reporters outside the White House on Oct. 4. Moreover, I definitely had no knowledge of [White House adviser] Hope Hicks diagnosis prior to holding a White House press briefing on Thursday [Oct. 1], she said, adding that as an essential worker, I have worked diligently to provide needed information to the American people at this time. With my recent positive test, she added, I will begin my quarantine process and will continue working on behalf of the American people remotely. Her diagnosis came after President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and three Republican senators confirmed positive COVID-19 tests in recent days. Trump, 74, was taken to the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Montgomery County, Maryland, over the weekend, while the first lady wrote on Oct. 5 that she is feeling good and will continue to rest at home. Late on Oct. 4, Trump made a surprise trip outside Walter Reed, greeting supporters while inside an SUV and wearing a face mask. I really appreciate all of the fans and supporters outside of the hospital. The fact is, they really love our Country and are seeing how we are MAKING IT GREATER THAN EVER BEFORE! he wrote on Twitter. In a video before the event, the president said that I learned a lot about COVID and I get it, and I understand it. This the real school this isnt the lets read the book school, he said, adding: In the meantime, we love the U.S.A., and we love whats happening. Meanwhile, the president sounded particularly optimistic on Oct. 5 in a Twitter post announcing his impending release. I will be leaving the great Walter Reed Medical Center today at 6:30 P.M., he wrote. Feeling really good! Dont be afraid of Covid. Dont let it dominate your life. We have developed, under the Trump Administration, some really great drugs & knowledge. I feel better than I did 20 years ago! KALAMAZOO COUNTY, MI -- Schools across Kalamazoo County will continue with safety protocols to prevent the spread of coronavirus after a court decision last week that invalidates emergency orders mandating certain precautions. Despite the Michigan Supreme Courts ruling that the governor doesnt have the authority to continue the state of emergency, many districts in Kalamazoo will not be changing their plans to keep students safe from COVID-19. Related: Gov. has no authority to continue state of emergency, Michigan Supreme Court rules The executive orders affected by the courts ruling include a mask mandate for elementary students being taught inside classrooms. AFter learning of the decision on Friday, some school districts have already announced decisions to waive mask requirements for some students going forward. Kalamazoo Public Schools spokesperson Susan Coney said there is no need for changes to the districts plan right now because the plan didnt require masks for young students when in the classroom. Our plan stated all students in grades K-5 must wear facial coverings unless students remain with their classes throughout the school day and do not come in close contact with students in another class," Coney said. Unless we receive further guidance, we will be proceeding with the COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan adopted by our Board of Education. Portage Public Schools is also awaiting further guidance from attorneys, spokesperson Michelle Karpinski said. The districts elementary students are currently learning in-person while other students are virtual. Portage students learning in-person, including K-5, are required to wear a mask under the districts plan. In Mattawan, Superintendent Randy Fleenor said the district will continue with safety measures, including facial coverings. Though we are aware of this legal ruling, MCS District will maintain our current health and safety measures, including facial coverings, as they are a proven method of limiting the spread of the virus, and will allow us to continue providing a safe environment for staff and students as we move forward toward a full return to in-person learning, Fleenor said in a statement issued to the district. The district is using a hybrid model of in-person and remote learning, the superintendent said. Masks are required for all students K-12 when in school buildings, he said. The district is seeking legal counsel and feedback from the Van Buren Intermediate School District, but is currently leaving all required safety procedures in place, Fleenor said. Comstock Public Schools will also be following the original plan approved by their board, Superintendent Jeff Thoenes said. The district began the school year fully virtual but Monday, Oct. 5, was the first day of in-person school for K-5 students, the superintendent said. The districts plan approved by the board requires masks for young students in the classroom, and Thoenes has no plans of changing that, he said. Any changes would require board action, he said. The science behind airborne viruses is really clear, Thoenes said. Were trying to do what we can to keep students and staff safe. Vicksburg Community Schools will also continue with masks for all students, a highly recommended protocol, Superintendent Keevin ONeill said. The districts youngest students are learning in-person five days per week and older students are learning part-time in the school buildings, he said. K-5 students were required to wear masks in the classroom even prior to the governors latest executive order, ONeill said. We are staying the course in terms of protocols, ONeill said. We know the masks are a tool that all of us can use to keep us all safe. The district is waiting for further guidance and clarification and the superintendent is meeting the Kalamazoo County Health Department Monday afternoon, he said. We want to make sure we keep everyone safe, ONeill said. Also on MLive: All over the place: Universities' COVID-19 data has no reporting standards Parent opinion sought on return to in-person learning at Kalamazoo schools Are snow days a thing of the past for Michigan schools? STAMFORD Police say a 37-year-old Stamford man was stabbed to death on Stillwater Avenue on Sunday night. At 9:20 p.m. a patrol officer was flagged down by a concerned resident who found the man down on the sidewalk on Stillwater Avenue, just up the hill from Pelliccis Restaurant. The man had multiple stab wounds. Stamford fire and medics responded and administered aid to the man, however he was pronounced dead before being brought to the hospital, according to a release from Lt. Tom Scanlon. The mans identity is not being made public, pending notification of his next of kin. When asked where exactly the incident occured, Scanlon declined to answer futher questions. This is the citys fourth homicide of the year and comes just two weeks after Shernetta Dunmore, 35, was killed while celebrating the end of summer in an East Side parking lot. On Sept. 20, Dunmore joined a group of city residents celebrating the end of summer at Cummings Park. When the park closed, people moved to a parking lot of the Ursula Place Housing Complex just off Cove Road. Just after midnight, gunfire erupted at the party. Dunmore was shot numerous times. She was rushed to Stamford Hospital, but died from her injuries. Police are still investigating that incident, as well as Sundays stabbing. On the latest homicide, Scanlon said, There are a number of investigators looking into this and it is a very active investigation. The mans death is being investigated by the departments Major Crimes Unit. Anyone with information is asked to call 203-977-4417. jnickerson@stamfordadvocate.com Pregnant women who underwent immediate surgery to treat a ruptured or abscessed appendix and their fetuses had significantly better outcomes than those whose condition was managed without an operation. Results from a nationwide study presented at the virtual American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress 2020 form the basis for the potential development of a consensus on optimal management of complicated appendicitis in pregnancy. Currently, the management of appendicitis in the general population is somewhat controversial and is especially true for complicated appendicitis. Increasing numbers of surgeons prefer a trial of nonsurgical management; others recommend an immediate operation," explained Kazuhide Matsushima, MD, FACS, an assistant professor of clinical surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles. This study is a great first step toward a consensus regarding the optimal management of complicated appendicitis in pregnant patients. Randomized clinical trials are necessary to provide that consensus." Kazuhide Matsushima, MD, FACS, Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California "Based on the current evidence we have, which includes this study, our recommendation would be for surgeons to pursue immediate operation for pregnant patients with complicated appendicitis. Every day of delay to surgery means worse clinical outcomes for the patients as well as the fetus," said Vincent Cheng, MD, a general surgery resident and lead author of the study at USC. Since the 19th Century, surgery has been the most widely accepted treatment for appendicitis; more than 300,000 appendectomies are performed annually in the US. Laparoscopic appendectomy is the most common surgical treatment. Despite this history, the management of acute appendicitis is still open to debate in terms of such questions as the timing of appendectomy, the safety of in-hospital delay, and the indications for performing appendectomy following a course of antibiotics. Moreover, increasing numbers of patients in the U.S. are being treated for appendicitis non-operatively. The number has doubled in the last 20 years, according to results of a study presented at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress 2017. Appendicitis during pregnancy is relatively uncommon. While the raw number and incidence of appendicitis during pregnancy is low, it is actually the most common non-obstetric emergency during pregnancy. It is also the most common non-obstetric reason for surgery during pregnancy, Dr. Cheng said. About 0.1 percent of pregnant women have appendicitis; in one study, 25 percent of 713 pregnant patients with appendicitis had a perforated appendix. Nonetheless, the condition carries a high risk of serious complications, including loss of the fetus.9 Perforation of the appendix increases the risk of death of the mother. Because of the low incidence of complicated appendicitis in pregnancy, there are no specific recommendations or guidelines on management. A team of surgeons from USC therefore set out to evaluate current treatment of complicated appendicitis in pregnancy by comparing maternal and fetal complications after operative and non-operative management. The researchers reviewed the National Inpatient Sample dataset from 2003-2015 to identify 8,087 cases of complicated appendicitis in pregnancy. Most (55 percent) had immediate non-invasive surgery. Forty-five percent began a course of non-operative management, which involved a course of antibiotics with or without percutaneous drainage of the inflamed organ. Of the 45 percent of patients who began non-operative management, 74 percent failed and later required an operation (either a laparoscopic procedure or an open appendectomy). Preterm labor, delivery, and pregnancy termination were more common in the group of women who had non-operative management or delayed surgery than in those who had immediate surgery; the odds of developing these complications were one to three times higher for the non-operative group. Sepsis also was two to four times more common in these groups of patients. The rate of any complication was lowest among patients who had immediate surgery (30 percent) and overall length of stay was two days shorter for these patients. While further study is needed to eventually arrive at a consensus for treating complicated appendicitis in pregnancy, findings from the study may help guide surgeons and patients. Dr. Matsushima stressed the importance of telling patients that the management of this condition is controversial and explaining the treatment options and risks. Dr. Cheng pointed out that "every situation is different and every patient is different so the discussion about how to manage this disease process should be a joint process between the patient and the surgeon that presents the pros and cons of the treatment options." The Delaware case raised intriguing questions, but the courts first order of business was whether Adams had the legal standing to raise them. A former Democrat who became an independent because he identifies more with Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adams did not actually apply for a judicial opening. He said there was no point in doing so because of the Republican or Democrat requirement. The Bachelor may be over for the year, but the rivalry between winner Irena Srbinovska and runners-up Bella Varelis and Bec Cvilikas is still going strong. The latest chapter of their feud concerns Bella and Bec, both 25, getting the 'blue tick' on Instagram, while 31-year-old nurse Irena remains unverified. When approached for comment on Monday, Irena took a subtle swipe at her former co-stars, who are both planning to launch careers as influencers. Keeping it real: The Bachelor winner Irena Srbinovska (pictured) says she has no interest in becoming an influencer, telling Daily Mail Australia that spruiking discount codes is the last thing on her mind 'I'm not about being an influencer, just about being real,' she said pointedly. Irena also clarified that she hadn't received a blue tick yet for one simple reason. 'I haven't even applied for it,' she said. 'I don't really care about it.' It comes just days after eagle-eyed fans noticed that Bella and Bec, who placed second and third respectively on The Bachelor, were verified on Instagram. Some thought it was unusual that the aspiring 'Insta models' would get the blue tick before Irena, who actually won Locky Gilbert's heart on the show. Taking the high road: As her co-stars rush to get verified on social media, Irena said: 'I'm not about being an influencer, just about being real.' Pictured: Bella Varelis (left) and Bec Cvilikas (right), who placed second and third respectively on The Bachelor and who were both recently verified on Instagram Missing tick: It comes after eagle-eyed fans noticed that Bella (left) and Bec were verified on Instagram, but that Irena (right) wasn't - despite having won Locky Gilbert's heart on the show Blue tick verification shows that Instagram has confirmed the account is 'the authentic presence of the public figure, celebrity or global brand it represents'. While any individual or organisation can request to become verified, Instagram doesn't guarantee that it will happen. In order to become verified, the account must represent a 'well-known, highly searched for person, brand or entity' - and is therefore prized by influencers. Significance: Blue tick verification shows that Instagram has confirmed the account is 'the authentic presence of the public figure, celebrity or global brand it represents' Rules: In order to become verified, the account must represent a 'well-known, highly searched for person, brand or entity' and is therefore prized by influencers. Pictured: Bec Cvilikas But the lack of verification doesn't seem to be bothering Irena, who was all smiles as she enjoyed a camping trip in rural NSW with Locky on Sunday. Locky, 31, revealed on Instagram they had 'randomly' ended up back at the same swimming hole in Wollombi where they'd shared a single date on The Bachelor. The former Australian Survivor star said it was 'good to be back' and 'finally be able to go for a swim' with his girlfriend without the cameras around. - Ellen Tawesa sued her ex-husband, Chimwemwe Tawesa, who sought a divorce upon completion of his higher education - Ellen and Chimwemwe had stayed together for 20 years, a period within which her husband attained his degree and diploma - Ellen sought the judge's determination on whether or not academic degrees could be considered part of matrimonial property - She also asked the court to determine whether the academic qualifications her husband attained during their marriage could be distributed on a 50/50 basis - The held that the petitioner, Ellen, contributed financially or in kind to her husband's pursuance of tertiary education hence deserved a share of his academic benefits PAY ATTENTION: Help us change more lives, join TUKO.co.kes Patreon programme - https://www.patreon.com/tuko A High in Malawi has delivered a landmark ruling compelling a husband who attains high academic qualifications during marriage to compensate his wife for her contribution to the achievement. Court hammer. Photo: Cosmos.com. Source: UGC The highly emotive matter was brought before the Malawian High Court for determination by a disgruntled housewife who parted ways with her husband upon his completion of tertiary education. Before taking the matter to the High Court, Ellen Tewesa, who sued her ex-husband Chimwemwe Twesa, had been awarded a compensation of KSh 43,366 payable in 10 equal instalments by a lower court. PAY ATTENTION: Click 'See First' under 'Follow' Tab to see Tuko.co.ke news on your FB The court had further ordered her ex-husband to build her a house or remit KSh 21, 683 in default. Ellen was dissatisfied by the meagre compensation and decided to seek the intervention of the High Court. Before her husband asked for a divorce, the two had stayed together for 20 years, a period within which her better half acquired his two degrees and move from being a primary school teacher to a lecturer. The court noted the wife played a key role in helping his husband pursue his degree. Photo: UOE. Source: UGC Degrees as matrimonial property In the High Court, Ellen sought the judge's determination on whether or not academic degrees could be considered part of matrimonial property and whether there was marital property in the educational qualifications of his husband. She specifically wanted the court to determine whether the Bachelors degree and diploma her husband attained during their marriage could be distributed on a 50/50 basis. In his ruling, Justice SA Kalembera held that the petitioner, Ellen, contributed financially or in kind to her husband's pursuance of his tertiary education. The court noted as a wife, the petitioner cooked for her husband, took care of four children, and did some businesses to top up the family budget as the respondent continued with his education. As such, Justice Kalembera noted it would be unfair for the respondent to enjoy the benefit of his academic achievements alone when it was clear the petitioner had played a role. Court's ruling The court ruled the respondent's earnings arising from the acquisition of qualifications were part of marital property, thus subject to joint property division at divorce, as reported by Daily Maverick. "In the matter at hand, the Petitioner was a housewife and the Defendant was the bread winner for the family. The Petitioner contributed to the well-being of the family as a whole by among other things, cooking for the husband, the four children they were staying with, doing some businesses just to top up the family budget and so forth... The husband upon completion of his tertiary education approached the court for a dissolution of his marriage to the Petitioner. Though this conduct of the Respondent might be considered unfortunate and ungrateful, it is not unusual," the court observed. Couple shows off wedding rings after signing a marriage certificate. Photo: My wedding. Source: UGC As a result, the court determined that the petitioner had a beneficial interest or equitable claim in her former husbands educational qualifications as long as the marriage subsisted. "Therefore, this court orders that the Respondent do compensates the Petitioner with a sum to be assessed by the Registrar within 30 days, for the latters contribution to the formers educational qualifications," ruled Justice SA Kalembera. The judge noted since the marriage had been terminated, Ellen would only be compensated for the loss she incurred in helping her husband to achieve his academic qualifications and she would not be entitled to any other benefit from the respondent's academic achievements upon receiving the compensation. Impractical and impossible However, on the question of whether the academic certificates in question could be shared equitably between the wife and husband, the court ruled that it was impractical to physically determine the value of the certificates and further transfer part of knowledge acquired by the respondent to the petitioner. "It would be diametrically impractical to demand the respondent to also impart the knowledge he acquired while at college to the petitioner, but also that the names in the certificates could be interchanged from Chimwemwe S. Tewesa to Ellen Tewesa, ruled the court. Sharing matrimonial property 50/50 In 2018, TUKO.co.ke reported on a landmark ruling by the High Court in Nairobi which dismissed a petition pushing for equal sharing of matrimonial property after divorce. Justice John Mativo ruled matrimonial property could only be shared on the basis of individual contributions as stipulated in the law. The judge argued it would not be reasonable for an individual to enter into a marriage empty-handed, contribute nothing and then walk out of the marriage with half of the family's wealth. The petition was filed by the International Federation of Female Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya). Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly. My mother abandoned me with two holes in my heart | Tuko TV Source: TUKO.co.ke Washington, DC - Chief of Staff in White House Mark Meadows shared that the Trump administration is "optimistic" that the United States President will have his return to the White House on Monday after spending a number of days recovering at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for COVID-19. According to Fox News, the White House Chief of Staff also mentioned that the health of the US president improved in just overnight and said that Trump is ready to get back to his normal working schedule. Meadows also stated that the president will be meeting his doctors and nurses in order to check the assessments and the progress that he is exhibiting. He also shared that he was able to talk to the president and Trump stated that he will be back soon in his normal working schedule. In his conclusion, Meadows also mentioned that they are optimistic that the US president will be returning to the White House later that day after it will be determined by his attending medical professionals. Read also: Pres. Donald Trump's Condition Raises Concerns After COVID-19 Diagnosis, Dropping Blood Oxygen Levels The comments of meadows came after the president trying to project a strong image in his stay at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center fighting against coronavirus. Over the last few days, Trump has faced health scares while battling against COVID-19, wherein during his stay at the medical facility he experienced a sudden drop in his Blood oxygen level. As a response to the sudden change in Trump's Blood oxygen level, attending doctors of the president treats him with a dose of the steroid dexamethasone. According to the White House physician, Dr. Sean Conley, who also served as the personal physician of trump, a normal blood oxygen reading is only between 95 and 100 but on Friday Trump experienced a high fever while his blood oxygen level is below 94% and exhibited another episode on Saturday, Yahoo! News reported. Despite the previous results showed by Trump, members of the medical team of Trump shared that they have been encouraged by the recent energy and progress that the president displayed, which can also be a signal that he is ready to be discharged from the medical facility on Monday. On Sunday, the US president took a short trip outside the medical facility in order to greet his supporters who gathered outside the hospital. But despite the good intention of the president, his short motorcade visit was criticized as some are saying that it could jeopardize the health of the member of the United States Secret Service because of the photo-op. In response to the criticisms received by the administration regarding the brief motorcade, Judd Deere, the White House Deputy Press Secretary shared in a statement that appropriate precautions were taken during the execution of this movement in order to protect not only the President but also all of those who supported it, including PPE. Deere also mentioned that movement was cleared and considered as safe by Trump's medical team. The US president has received doses of Remdesivir, as part of his medication, which is an antiviral drug that has been approved by the US FDA in order to treat COVID-19. Related news: Trump Urges Congress to Pass a Coronavirus Relief Bill, Tells Them to 'GET IT DONE' @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 00:23:32|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close JUBA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan in collaboration with the UN children agency (UNICEF) on Monday launched a campaign aimed at ending rampant child marriages in the east African young country. The campaign which was launched under the slogan "some things are not fit for children, marriage is one of them", will see UNICEF highlight how child marriage can be damaging to girls' education, development and ultimately their futures. Ayaa Benjamin Warille, minister of gender, child and social welfare, said child marriage is a harmful social norm that needs to be addressed by all actors. "This campaign, therefore, comes at just the right time when we need to protect the girls as never before. I call upon everyone in South Sudan in joining hands in ending child marriage in our country," Warille said in a statement issued in Juba. According to UNICEF, 52 percent of all girls in South Sudan are married before 18 years of age, cultural practice fueled by debilitating poverty. South Sudan is one of the countries with deeply entrenched cultural practices and social norms linked to gender. "We are sending a clear message that marriage is not for children. It harms children, especially girls, and it must end now," Mohamed Ag Ayoya, UNICEF for South Sudan said. Ayoya said low levels of education and lack of knowledge about the harm caused by early marriage further exacerbates the situation. UNICEF said it is working with the government to implement the National Strategic Action Plan (2017-2030) to end child marriage by 2030. About one out of three of all girls in South Sudan become pregnant before turning 15 years of age. Enditem The Road to 270 is a weekly column leading up to the presidential election. Each installment is dedicated to understanding one states political landscape and how that might influence which party will win its electoral votes in 2020. Well do these roughly in order of expected competitiveness, moving toward the most intensely contested battlegrounds as election day nears. The Road to 270 will be published every Monday. The column is written by Drew Savicki, a 270toWin elections and politics contributor. Contact Drew via email or on Twitter @DrewSav. Buoyed by a shift among college educated whites and a growing Hispanic population, the Grand Canyon State finds itself at the center of attention this year. The fast growing suburbs of Phoenix have not just attracted retirees but young professionals as well. 2018 put Arizona Democrats back on the map: they won a U.S Senate contest there for the first time in 30 years, flipped three other statewide offices, one U.S. House seat, and a multitude of seats in both chambers of the legislature. With millions of dollars being spent on ads dominating the airwaves, Arizonans are learning for the first time what it's like to live in a swing state. Crucial Maricopa Usually, Arizona elections are won and lost in Maricopa County. Home to 60% of the state's population, Maricopa is a sprawling county home to almost four million people. Since 2010, just one candidate has won statewide while losing Maricopa County. It is is the largest county in the nation that voted for Donald Trump in 2016. What makes it interesting is not just its size in terms of population but also its size in terms of area -- by land area, its larger than four states. As one of the nation's largest suburban counties, Maricopa has traditionally been Republican but there are signs the party's dominance is coming to an end. In 2016, controversial Sheriff Joe Arpaio (R) lost reelection to former Phoenix police sergeant Paul Penzone (D). An outspoken opponent of illegal immigration, Arpaio was the state's most controversial figure over the years. His office had repeatedly been accused of police misconduct, he used police resources to "investigate" then-President Obama's birth certificate, engaged in racial profiling, and erected what was called a "tent city" at the county jail. In office, Penzone has worked to restore public confidence in the Sheriff's office and has spent of much his term undoing his predecessor's decades long legacy. Arpaio attempted a comeback this year but lost in the primary to his former deputy. It seems unlikely Penzone is in much trouble but could have faced a tough race had Republicans nominated someone not connected to Arpaio. Aside from the sheriffs race, Democrats won the contest for County Recorder in 2016. Recorder Adrian Fontes handles elections -- though his office faced some criticism in 2018, Fontes won praise for overseeing a smooth primary election this year. Congressional politics Perhaps none define the spirit of Arizona more than the Grand Canyon's state's two most legendary Senators: Barry Goldwater and John McCain. Goldwater, the party's 1964 nominee for President, kickstarted the modern conservative movement, although his brand of libertarian conservatism has long since fallen out of favor with the party. A critic of the growing influence of the religious right in the GOP, Goldwater by the end of his career saw his star fade and was eclipsed by more mainline conservatives like Ronald Reagan. In addition, Goldwater's stance on abortion rights made him increasingly an outlier in a party that was becoming more and more defined by social conservatism. His support for gay rights and medical marijuana put him at odds with social conservatives, who vehemently opposed both. Goldwater got to the Senate after defeating Majority Leader Ernest McFarland (D) in 1952, and in 1964 gave up that seat to run for president. But he came back in 1968 to win the states other Senate seat. He retired in 1986, paving the way for then-Rep. John McCain to ascend to the Senate. A Captain in the U.S. Navy who served his country honorably in Vietnam and became a prisoner of war, John McCain first ran for office in 1982, at the urging of his friend - Delaware Senator Joe Biden. McCain and Biden met a few years prior when McCain served as the U.S. Navy's liaison to the Senate and that experience working with Senators influenced his decision to run for Congress. McCain represented Arizona's 1st District in southeastern Maricopa for two terms before running for the Senate in 1986. During his time in the Senate, McCain was known as a moderate conservative. Although generally a reliable vote for his party, McCain did sometimes break with his party and his willingness to criticize his party earned him a reputation as a 'maverick'. One of McCains signature achievements was the McCain-Feingold act, which regulated campaign finance. Another later achievement of his was the Veterans Choice Act, which President Trump has repeatedly taken credit for, even though it became law before he ran for President. Known for his straight talk, McCain ran for President twice, first in 2000 and then again in 2008. McCain's 2000 campaign is still fondly remembered as one of the most media accessible campaigns. McCain was quite popular with reporters but among the GOP faithful he fell flat. In a pre-9/11 world, his focus on defense issues just simply did not resonate with voters. One of the more noteworthy events of the 2000 campaign was a push poll ahead of the South Carolina primary that made a racist insinuation about his adopted daughter. McCain long struggled with his right flank and that was again a problem for him in 2008. Still, McCain easily carried his some state that year and although he weighed retiring, ultimately ran for reelection in 2010. McCain's final election was 2016 where he faced his closest race from Ann Kirkpatrick (D), then the representative of the state's first district. During his last few years in the Senate, McCain had a fractious relationship with Donald Trump. McCain made no secret of his distaste for the Presidents disruptive political style and Trump made no secret of his dislike of the legendary senator. In a moment that would define his career, John McCain voted down his partys attempt at repealing the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) in the summer of 2017. McCain -- a traditionalist, was frustrated by the unusual and rushed process in which the repeal was considered. Elected in 2018, Arizonas senior Senator - is Democrat Kyrsten Sinema. The first Democrat elected to the Senate from Arizona since 1988, Sinema is one of two openly LGBT members of the Senate and the only religiously unaffiliated member of the body. A moderate Democrat, Sinema is known for her bipartisanship and often polls as the states most popular politician. In the Senate she has made a concerted effort to win the support of people who did not vote for her. Sinema has a long history in Arizona politics. She was first elected to the state legislature in 2004 as a progressive Democrat. Before she ran for office, she was a Green Party activist and even volunteered for the Nader campaign in 2000. In 2012, Sinema ran for the newly created 9th Congressional District, which was anchored in southeast Phoenix and its suburbs. Originally drawn as a swing district, Sinema quickly locked down the district and her margins grew with each passing cycle. McCain's death, in 2018, came too late for a special election to be held that year. Gov. Doug Ducey appointed former Sen. Jon Kyl to the seat. Kyl had previously been a colleague of McCain's, serving alongside him from 1995 to 2013. Kyl served in a caretaker role, resigning at the end of 2018. Ducey then appointed Rep. Martha McSally, who had just lost the other Senate race to Sinema. McSally is now trying to win a 2020 special election to complete the final two years of McCain's term. As an Air Force veteran, she has an impressive story, but has struggled in polls. In the House, McSally was known as a moderate Republican but she tacked sharply to the right when she ran for the Senate. Since her appointment, she has been a reliable supporter of the Presidents agenda. She is facing a strong challenge from former astronaut and Navy veteran Mark Kelly. The husband of former Rep. Gabby Giffords, who used to represent Arizonas 2nd District, Kelly is one of the Democratic Partys strongest first-time Senate candidates this year. Kelly has outraised McSally in every fundraising quarter and led her in all public polls this year. Both Sabatos Crystal Ball and the Cook Political Report rate the race as Leans Democratic, and its not out of the question that Kelly could win even if Trump carries the state again. Sinema recently weighed into the race -- she endorsed Kelly and blasted McSally. Although the state has seen considerable action this year at the Presidential and Senate levels, there has been comparatively little attention to paid to the states House seats. The Crystal Ball and Cook list two and three districts as competitive, respectively. Lets take a look at those seats. Encompassing Flagstaff, the Navajo Nation, and Casa Grande, the 1st District is roughly the size of Georgia. This sprawling northern Arizona district was drawn to be a fair-fight district but Democrats have held it since 2012, as Republicans have fielded a number of poor candidates over the years. A racially diverse and polarized district, it is currently represented by Democrat Tom OHalleran. A retired police officer and former Republican, OHalleran ranks among the most moderate Democrats in the House. He was won two terms by about 7-8 percentage points both times. This district has a strong liberal base in Flagstaff but a strong conservative base in places like ancestrally Democratic Greenlee County. This district leans slightly right of center in presidential elections but the growth in Flagstaff and the impact of COVID on the Navajo Nation suggests it could vote for Joe Biden. Democrats are spending minor amounts here to shore up OHalleran but Republicans dont seem terribly interested. Forecasters disagree on how to rate this district. Both the Crystal Ball and Inside Elections rate it as Likely Democratic but Cook has it at Leans Democratic. OHalleran faced a surprisingly close primary challenge this year from former Flagstaff City Councilor Eva Putzova. OHalleran struggled in Flagstaff but dominated in the more rural parts of his district, especially so in the Navajo Nation. He has made Native outreach a priority during his time in office and it paid off in spots. Nestled in the southeastern corner of Arizona, AZ-2 is home to much of Tucson and its suburbs. After she lost her bid for the Senate against McCain in 2016, Ann Kirkpatrick moved to Tucson and ran for the open 2nd District -- it being vacated by Rep. Martha McSally, who was running for the open Senate seat. McSally was generally popular in this district, as she easily won reelection in 2016 while Hillary Clinton carried the district. Kirkpatrick won the open seat by almost 10 points in 2018. In the Senate race that year, McSally lost it by 7% to Sinema. The Crystal Ball still rates this as Likely Democratic but Cook has it as Solid Democratic. The most educated district in the state is AZ-6 -- it is entirely within Maricopa County and includes Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, and part of Phoenix. It was once a Republican bastion but there are signs thats changing. Rep. Dave Schweikert (R) has been stung by a long-simmering ethics probe into his campaign finance practices and the suburban revolt against President Trump has pushed this district into the Toss-up category. After spending a considerable amount on legal fees, Schweikerts campaign account is nearly empty. Democrats have an ideal candidate in Dr. Hiral Tipirneni, who has considerably outraised Schweikert. Tipirneni unsuccessfully ran for the neighboring 8th District in the 2018 special election and then again in the regular November election. Given her competitive performance in that redder district, she seems like a strong candidate. This is a district to watch, not just at the House but at the presidential and Senate levels too. State level politics 2018 saw a breakthrough for Democrats at the state level. The party picked up three state executive offices. Although Democrats largely ignored the gubernatorial race, those wins give them a solid bench for 2022. This year, Arizonans will be voting again on recreational marijuana in a referendum. A similar measure failed to pass in 2016 -- it looked on track to pass this year, but more recent polling suggests the result could be close. Though he was easily reelected in 2018, Gov. Doug Ducey has seen his approval ratings fall as his state dealt with a large COVID-19 outbreak. Although the state is long past its peak, Duceys approval ratings have not risen. He is often mentioned as a potential 2022 candidate against Mark Kelly, should he win. However, given Duceys underwater approval ratings, his political future seems less clear. Democrats are seeking to flip both chambers of the legislature this year and as of right now, they are slight favorites in both. Democrats need to pick up two just seats in the House and three in the Senate in order to win control. Arizona is set to gain another congressional district following the Census. Unlike many other states, Arizona uses a bipartisan commission with an independent tiebreaker. In the 2001 redistricting, the commission emphasized protecting incumbents and in 2011, the commission emphasized drawing competitive districts. It seems likely that the redistricting process next year will use both criteria to some extent. Presidential politics Arizona Polls >> Arizona last voted Democratic for President in 1996 but it is one of Joe Bidens top pickup opportunities in the nation. So how could the home of Barry Goldwater become a swing state? Well first lets look at its history. Arizona was settled first settled by prospectors in search of gold and the Mormons led by Brigham Young, as they ventured out west. As a heavily industrial state, Arizona was reliably Democratic from statehood until the rise of suburbia in the 1950s. The advancements in air conditioning technology and the creation of age-restricted communities brought flocks of older Republican voters from the East Coast. The Grand Canyon state would vote Republican for President from 1952-1992. By 1996, President Clinton was enjoying a rise in popularity and the economy was booming. A member of the Baby Boomer generation himself, President Clinton had something of a kinship with those voters, and Arizona had many of them. Arizona reverted Republican in 2000, and has remained there since. But bolstered by a changing electorate and Trumps unpopularity among suburban voters, Hillary Clinton lost the state by just 3.5%. Although Joe Biden is lagging slightly behind Clinton with Hispanic voters, his strength with older voters and college educated whites bodes well for him in Arizona. All is not lost for Trump, though -- Arizona does have a rather large non-college educated population, including one demographic that has been reliably Democratic in the state, Native Americans. Perhaps Biden's greatest asset in the state is his endorsement from John McCain's widow, Cindy. President Trump, for his part lashed out at her endorsement, a decision that is unlikely to help him with the suburban women whose votes he needs. Senator McSally responded very differently, though McCain has said she will sit out the Senate race. Compared to previous Republican nominees, Trump has made great gains with non-college educated voters across racial lines. Particularly worrisome for Arizona Democrats is Apache County. Though solidly Democratic and 75% Native American, it has very low levels of college attainment and those voters are essential part of the Democratic coalition in the state. Mobilizing the Native vote is a key priority for the Biden campaign to put the state in their column on November 3. Next Week: Florida Remaining Schedule: Iowa (10/19), Georgia (10/26), North Carolina (11/2). Dates subject to change. We use the model powering the 2020 presidential election simulator to determine the following week's state. Specifically, we will look at the 'Battleground 270' results of 25,000 simulations run late Sunday afternoon. Of the states remaining, the next to be covered will be that with the highest likelihood of a Trump or Biden win as of that date. View the current state-by-state probabilities in the table at the bottom of the Battleground 270 page. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 00:22:41|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close JUBA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Sudan's final peace deal that was signed by government and opposition groups on Saturday will boost economic recovery efforts in neighboring South Sudan, experts said on Monday. James Okuk, a Juba based political analyst said that cessation of conflict in Sudan's Darfur, Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile regions, will be a boon to South Sudan's economy and long-term stability. "It will help both countries to focus on peace and economic development with maximum freedoms given to their citizens," Okuk said. Sudan's transitional Sovereign Council and the armed opposition groups in Darfur, Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile regions on Saturday signed a final peace deal in the South Sudanese capital of Juba to end decades of civil strife. Okuk said the peace deal could unleash inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the landlocked South Sudan whose main source of revenue is oil. He said that optimism demonstrated by Khartoum will encourage the region and the international community to rally behind speedy implementation of the peace deal. "Khartoum seems serious as it has demonstrated in taking the lead in finalizing the agreement with a political willingness to implement it without delays while calling for the two holdout groups of Abdulaziz Al-Hilu and Abdel Wahid to join the process," said Okuk. Michael Koma, editor-in-chief of the Witness Newspaper, said Sudan's peace accord will open a new chapter of robust diplomatic ties with Juba. "A peace agreement in Sudan will have a positive impact on its relations with its neighbors, and more importantly with South Sudan which uses Sudan to export its oil to the world market," Koma said. Sudan's peace deal ended 17 years of civil strife in Darfur and Southern parts of Sudan that saw hundreds of thousands of people dead and curtailed development in the Southern and western regions. Hamdan Kambo, a Sudanese trader based in Juba said the peace agreement will ensure that citizens co-exist peacefully and contribute to economic development of their respective countries. "With peace, the border between South Sudan and Sudan will now open and operate with ease as travelers and goods will be transported from Khartoum to Juba," said Kambo. For the last 13 months, South Sudan has been mediating talks between Sudan government and the opposition coalition to end recurrent conflicts. Enditem Mali has freed more than 100 suspected or convicted jihadists as part of negotiations for the release of a prominent Malian politician and a kidnapped French charity worker, sources close to the talks said Monday. "As part of the negotiations to obtain the release of Soumaila Cisse and Sophie Petronin, more than one hundred jihadist prisoners were released this weekend," one of those in charge of the negotiations, who asked not to be named, told AFP. An official at the security services confirmed the information. The prisoners were released in the central region of Niono and in Tessalit in the north after arriving by plane, the official said. A lawmaker in Tessalit, who also requested anonymity, confirmed to AFP that "large numbers of jihadist prisoners" arrived there on Sunday. Sophie Petronin, a French charity worker, was abducted by gunmen on December 24, 2016, in the northern city of Gao. The last video in which she appeared was received in June 2018. She appeared tired and emaciated, and appealed to French President Emmanuel Macron. In another video, in November 2018, in which she did not appear, her kidnappers said her health had deteriorated. Soumaila Cisse is a former opposition leader and three-time presidential candidate. He was seized on March 25 while campaigning in his home region of Niafounke ahead of legislative elections. Mali, supported by France and UN peacekeepers, is struggling with an eight-year-old Islamist insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives. A military junta overthrew president Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in August, before taking over leadership of the West African nation. Search Keywords: Short link: OKLAHOMA CITY - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved a request from Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitts administration to allow the state, not tribal nations, to regulate environmental issues in Indian Country, even those lands that may be inside historical tribal reservation boundaries. Stitt, a Republican, requested the authority in July, shortly after the U.S. Supreme Court determined that a large swath of eastern Oklahoma remains a Muscogee (Creek) Nation Indian reservation. In the July 22 letter to EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler, Stitt requested state authority to administer all EPA programs in areas of the state that are in Indian Country, with a few exceptions. Wheeler approved the states request in an Oct. 1 response. It applies to more than two dozen federal environmental programs overseen by several state agencies, including the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality, Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, Water Resources Board and the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. The federal law allowing states to seek environmental oversight in Indian Country was authored in 2005 by Oklahomas Republican U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe, a staunch ally of the oil and gas industry. Stitt said in a statement Monday that he was pleased with the EPAs decision, saying it would help better protect the states public health and environment by ensuring certainty and one consistent set of regulations for all citizens of Oklahoma, including tribal citizens. As Administrator Wheelers letter correctly points out, the State of Oklahoma did not seek to expand or increase its regulation over new areas of the state, but rather to continue to regulate those areas where the state has consistently implemented these environmental programs under the steady oversight of the U.S. EPA, Stitt said. The decision drew a swift rebuke from some tribal leaders. Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said he was disappointed that the EPA ignored his tribes request to consult individually with the agency about the change. Unfortunately, the governors decision to invoke a 2005 federal law ignores the longstanding relationships between state agencies and the Cherokee Nation, Hoskin said in a statement. All Oklahomans benefit when the Tribes and state work together in the spirit of mutual respect and this knee-jerk reaction to curtail tribal jurisdiction is not productive. Stitt, himself a Cherokee Nation citizen, has had a strained relationship with many of the tribal nations in Oklahoma over his attempt to seek a greater share of tribal casino revenue. The EPA decision was particularly welcomed by the states oil and gas industry, which was concerned that the Supreme Court ruling in McGirt v. Oklahoma could ultimately lead to a patchwork of various tribal environmental regulations across the state, said Brook Simmons, president of the Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma, an oil and gas industry trade group. This decision grants the state no more or no less authority than it had prior to the McGirt decision, Simmons said. Since 1947, the state of Oklahoma has had primacy to regulate oil and gas operations in Indian Country. This does not have any new effect on that precedent. The DU admission process got delayed by three months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, the first cut-off list was announced on 28 June Delhi University (DU) is planning to announce the first cut-offs for different undergraduate courses on 10 October. The university had, in the admission schedule for the 2020-21 academic session released last month, stated that the admission under the first cut-off would be conducted from 12 October and the first cut-off announced on 11 October. However, a Hindustan Times report said that the announcement will come two days ahead of the commencement of the admission process on 12 October. The DU admission process got delayed by three months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year, the first cut-off list was announced on 28 June. The admission process for DU is being done online for the first time. The final day to submit fee is 16 October, while the new academic session will commence on 18 November, according to a Times Now report. Shobha Bagai, Dean (Admissions), University of Delhi said that varsity would be holding a webinar for applicants soon. She went on to add that the webinar will advise students on how to calculate their cut-offs as well as choose courses and colleges on the dashboard. "We will also be holding a meeting with college conveners. There is a need to sensitise anybody - from colleagues in colleges to candidates, who tend to get anxious," she added. Bagai also advised students to read the notices uploaded on the website - du.ac.in. Advertisement She has jetted off to Turkey for a relaxing break with her husband. And Rhian Sugden and Oliver Mellor looked happier than ever as they packed on the PDA during a paddleboarding session recently. The glamour model, 34, and her actor love, 39, were the epitome of true love as they kissed and embraced while enjoying a day at the beach, with Rhian sizzling in a busty black swimsuit. PDA: Rhian Sugden and Oliver Mellor looked happier than ever as they packed on the PDA during a paddleboarding session recently The blonde beauty exhibited her famous cleavage and tiny waist in the scanty black swimsuit as she enjoyed a refreshing dip in the sea. The swimsuit rose high on her honed legs and teased a glimpse of her peachy posterior. Her blonde tresses were styled sleek and straight while a radiant palette of make-up enhanced her pretty features. Baywatch moment: The blonde beauty, 34, exhibited her famous cleavage and tiny waist in a scanty black swimsuit as she enjoyed a refreshing dip in the sea Wow: Rhian showed off her toned swimsuit body as she larked about at sea with Oliver Cute: The glamour model and her actor love, 39, were the epitome of true love as they kissed and embraced while enjoying a day at the beach Cheeky: Rhian showed off her pert posterior in the high-cut swimsuit as she relaxed at sea Beach babe: Rhian displayed her toned curves in the tight black swimsuit as she showed off her technique Oliver showed off his hunky frame in a pair of black swimming trunks. The couple, who wed in 2018, couldn't keep their hands off one another as they larked about during the day, with Oliver having a cheeky grab of his wife's derriere. The couple revealed earlier this year they had endured gruelling IVF for 18 months. In a recent Instagram post of her snuggled up to her puppy Rhian penned: 'So in love. Feeling very content with my little family right now. Steamy: The couple enjoyed a smooch before taking in the scenic views in Turkey Go for it: The couple looked in good spirits as they larked around on the water 'So many people told me that getting a puppy after failed IVF is a godsend and a good distraction. After two failed rounds I tell you what, I've not been this happy in months. My heart could burst.' Announcing the news of his arrival last month when he was just eight weeks old she said on Instagram: 'My family has grown by four little feet.' After discovering that she wouldn't be able to conceive naturally, she and her actor husband went through two rounds of IVF. They were given the devastating news just before Christmas that their second round of treatment in November had failed. Bombshell: Rhian showed off her ample assets in the revealing black swimsuit as she paddled Smile: Oliver and Rhian looked happy to be back in their wedding destination as they relaxed Curves: Rhian showed off her toned curves as she slipped into the scanty swimsuit Making a splash: The couple fell off the paddleboard into the water as they larked around at sea Laugh out loud; Rhian looked sensational as she valiantly attempted to keep her balance onboard the board Back in June she revealed she was waiting to start her third round of the process when she responded to a fan's question on one of her Instagram posts of her enjoying a glass of wine. In the comments, one fan wrote: 'Did you give an IVF update? Any good news?', to which Rhian replied: 'No news... still waiting to start round 3 x'. Earlier this year she created a natural tanning range after medics told her to avoid cosmetics with nasty chemicals to give herself the best chance of falling pregnant. Go for it: The couple were ringing in their second wedding anniversary as they splashed about Off he goes: Oliver displayed his muscular frame as he fell off the paddleboard Lol: The couple looked in good spirits as they splashed around on their day of relaxation In sync: The couple did their best to work together to ensure they would not topple over Rhian even hired an alternative therapies specialist and became much more conscious of her product choices. She ditched her go-to brands in favour of more natural alternatives. She said: 'Clarity is a no-nonsense self tan for product conscious people. 'Oliver and I have spent the past 18 months having IVF treatment and learnt so much about how the body works. 'I want to give myself the best possible chance of having a baby, so I took a long, hard look at all of the cosmetic products I was using and decided to cut out all of the nonsense.' Muscles: Oliver showed off his hunky frame in a pair of black swimming trunks Fun in the sun: The couple couldn't contain their laughter as they larked around on the paddleboard Animated: Rhian looked in good spirits as she fell into the water after another valiant effort Glimpse: Oliver had a quick glance at his wife's derriere as they relaxed at sea BERN, Switzerland, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Immunophotonics, Inc., a biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of proprietary immune-activating carbohydrate polymers for the treatment of solid and metastatic cancers, has bolstered its expertise through the appointment of Jonathan Knowles, Ph.D. to its Board of Directors. Dr. Knowles has made instrumental contributions in developing and commercializing multiple drugs in several therapeutic areas. His insights will be invaluable in advancing IP-001 through clinical development and commercialization, stated Dr. Bobby W. Sandage, Jr., Immunophotonics Chairman of the Board. IP-001 is the companys lead asset in clinical development. Lu Alleruzzo, CEO of Immunophotonics, is honored to welcome the new Board member and commented I truly look forward to working closely with Dr. Knowles to advance our programs, leveraging his strategic, operational and scientific know-how as we continue to validate the science behind IP-001s immune-modulating properties. Dr. Knowles has reached the pinnacle of achievement academically and implemented his learnings in the pharmaceutical industry with a proven track record of advancing scientific innovation through clinical development and global adoption. In his opinion, Immunophotonics has a unique and innovative approach to treating serious cancers through immune stimulation. The early data look very interesting and the drug has the potential to help many patients with metastatic cancer who are eligible for ablation or radiation therapy. I look forward to interacting more closely with the excellent scientists in the company going forward. About Prof. Dr. Jonathan Knowles, Ph.D. Dr. Jonathan Knowles has held faculty positions at numerous first-class institutions, including the University of Oxford, the Swiss EPFL, the University of Basel, and the University of Helsinki. His innate curiosity and determination to apply cutting-edge science to develop effective medicines propelled him into leading positions in the pharmaceutical industry, including President of Group Research and Member of the Executive Committee of the Roche Group, Member of the Board of Directors of Genentech and Chugai Pharmaceuticals, and Chairman of the Research Directors' Group of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industry Associations (EFPIA). Most recently, he has served as Chairman of the Board for Immunocore Ltd. and Adaptimmune Ltd., two major UK biotech companies. Dr. Knowles is a visionary who dares to address the limitations of existing therapeutics and dedicates his talents to develop innovative diagnostics and medicines with curative potential. About Immunophotonics Immunophotonics is a privately owned clinical-stage biotech pioneering the field of Interventional Immuno-OncologyTM. IP-001, the first asset from the companys intellectual property platform, has the potential to transform a routine tumor ablation into a systemically active cancer immunotherapy in multiple solid tumor indications. The company is based in St. Louis, Missouri, USA with subsidiaries in Bern, Switzerland and Tianjin, China. Contact: Dr. Theresa Visarius Vice President Business Development, Immunophotonics, Inc. Managing Director, IPS Biopharma AG IR@immunophotonics.com www.immunophotonics.com This press release contains forward-looking statements that may involve inherent uncertainties and actual results may differ materially. Immunophotonics, Inc. undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law. The Council of the National Bank of Ukraine (NBU) during a meeting on October 2 reprimanded and expressed distrust in First Deputy Governor of the NBU Kateryna Rozhkova and Deputy Governor Dmytro Sologub, according to the regulator's website. "The Council also considered a number of organizational and personnel issues, in particular, for violation of the NBU regulations, the NBU Employee Ethics Code, internal regulations for NBU employees, violation of the requirements of the Labor Code of Ukraine ... decided to reprimand Rozhkova ... and Sologub. Express distrust in Rozhkova and Sologub," the regulator said. - The 2018 film explores the dating scene in Nairobi including two friends who are in a dilemma about their relationship - Most of the stars went on social media to celebrate the movie going international - Disconnect is set to premiere on Netflix on October, Friday 16 PAY ATTENTION: Help us change more lives, join TUKO.co.kes Patreon programme- https://www.patreon.com/tuko Kenyan actors are proving that talent is definitely in abundance in the country and should be invested on to see many joining the likes of Lupita and Gathegi in the Hollywood scene. Some of the actresses from the movie at a red carpet event Photo: Kiss 100 Source: UGC This is after another Kenyan movie, Disconnect, was chosen to air on renowned streaming site Netflix. The 2018 romantic, comedy film explores the dating scene in Nairobi including two friends who are in a dilemma about the status of their relationship. The movie stars famous actors such as Kate Actress, Brenda Wairimu, Nick Mutuma, Pascal Tokodi, Patricia Kihoro among others. Most of the stars went on social media to celebrate, with Mutuma noting that after three years, the movie had gotten its deserved position and congratulated the crew for an amazing job. PAY ATTENTION: Click 'See First' under 'Follow' Tab to see Tuko.co.ke news on your FB feed Kate was elated saying she was finally joining Netflix while Brenda was just proud to see a Kenyan film going international. The movie is set to premiere on the site on October, Friday 16. A few weeks ago, TUKO.co.ke reported about a related story in which a Kenyan movie, Poacher, got to air on the platform. News about Poacher's new milestone was made public by the Kenya Film Commission through Twitter. The movie addressed issues of illegal ivory trade by highlighting the story of a farmer who runs into trouble after stealing a stash of blood ivory from a gang of international terrorists. The film is a collaboration between Kenya and Britain and was directed by revered director Tom Whitworth. Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly. Heroine ruined my life and put my children at risk - Whitney Wanjiku | Tuko TV Source: TUKO.co.ke The Ghana Education Service (GES) has directed all form two students of Junior and Senior High Schools to return to their various schools starting from Monday, October 5 2020. This is to enable them complete the third and second term of the current academic year respectively. This was contained in a press statement dated October 2, 2020 and signed by Cassandra Twum Ampofo, Head of the Public Relations Unit of the GES. "Management wishes to assure students, parents, teachers, and the general public that the necessary measures have been put in place to ensure their safety while in school," the statement read. Per the statement, all schools had already been fumigated and disinfected and also Personal Protective Equipment (PPE's) have also been distributed to all schools. According to GES, all school authorities, staff and students are to acknowledge that COVID-19 still exists and must therefore strictly abide by all guidelines issued. Source: GNA 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 HOUSTON - Three workers were killed Monday when a stairwell collapsed inside a high-rise building under construction in Houston, according to fire department officials. The fire department said one injured worker was taken to a hospital and was listed in stable condition. Firefighters were waiting for engineers to confirm the building was stable enough for them to go in and recover the bodies of the workers, said Assistant Fire Chief Ruy Lozano. It could be several days before their bodies are recovered, he said. Authorities were not concerned that the building itself was in danger of collapsing but were worried about sections of that same stairwell that collapsed the first time, Lozano told reporters during a news conference. The stairwell was undergoing construction when it collapsed somewhere around the 13th or 14th floor at about 1:30 p.m. on Monday, Lozano said. The debris pile collapsed all the way down to the ground floor, Lozano said. The 15-story office building, located near Interstate 10 on the citys westside, is set to be the new headquarters of Houston-based Marathon Oil. Employees were set to move into the building in the second half of 2021. Marathon Oil did not immediately return an email seeking comment. The building is located across the street from a series of multi-story apartment complexes and is also north of a popular shopping district that has retail stores and restaurants. Authorities said 240 workers were at the construction site and all have been accounted for, Lozano said. It was not immediately known what caused the partial building collapse. Houston police were investigating the cause of the collapse. The names of the workers who were killed and injured were not being released until their families had been notified, Lozano said. Coco Ono, left, Kitty, Danielle and Reagan in front of Jumbo's Clown Room. With the club closed during the pandemic, the women have moved their dancing online. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times) It was in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic when a group of dancers from the East Hollywood hipster strip club Jumbos Clown Room realized no one was coming to save them. After the club closed in March, they were waiting on a call, for someone to swoop in and take the reins and tell us what to do, said the performer who goes by Reagan (real name Megan Rippey). Then we realized that we were those people. In early May, one Jumbos dancer named Gabrielle reached out to a few of her coworkers to create a virtual strip show. And within 24 hours they launched Cyber Clown Girls, which has now become a twice-weekly three-hour show featuring current dancers and alumni from Jumbos, and other performers from exotic dance communities. (Tickets to the Zoom show are sold through Eventbrite.) Co-founded by Gabrielle, Reagan, Coco Ono (real name Kayla Tange) and Kitty, the Stripperina (real name Kelly Vittetoe), the show has given the strippers a new sense of agency and empowerment in an industry that is notorious for taking advantage of women. Although they emphasized that Jumbos is a supportive environment run by women, other strip clubs can be exploitative. Weve all heard the horror stories of pay cuts being really unfair, favoritism, having to do certain favors for them that made a lot of performers feel uncomfortable, Coco Ono said. All these things we no longer have to deal with, which is pretty great. A behind-the-scenes photo of Cyber Clown Girls co-founder Kayla Tange, who performs as Coco Ono, during an online show Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (Kevin Kane) The co-founders take turns hosting and performing in the virtual show. Each follows a theme "Star Wars," disco and funk, "A Midsummer Nights Dream" and features a different lineup of dancers who perform two short pieces in their homes. Some dancers use portable poles, and others make creative use of bathtubs, windowsills, cars or apartment corners transformed by a makeshift set. Like an in-person strip club, viewers (about 100 for each show) are encouraged throughout the night to tip the dancers using payment platforms like Venmo or Cash App. The tips are eventually pooled and split evenly among all the performers. Story continues The show is, of course, sexy. Dancers strip down to pasties and G-strings, or to their birthday suit, with some strategic covering. But mixed in with the stripping is a level of zaniness, edge and political commentary. In one show, Kitty performed a pole number in a cow costume complete with sparkler-enhanced udders and accidentally set part of her living room on fire. Another act by the dancer who performs as Susan B. Sketchy was a take-down of gender-reveal party culture. Dancer Coco Ono (Kayla Tange) poses for a portrait in front of Jumbo's Clown Room on Monday, Sept. 21, 2020, in Los Angeles. (Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times) Coco Ono is a performance, burlesque and installation artist who has performed at the nonprofit arts space Human Resources Los Angeles, REDCAT and Art Basel Miami Beach. Her work often explores societal taboos, food fetish and her Korean heritage. Strippers in general are often insanely creative people, said Reagan, who has an MFA from CalArts. With online shows, we are our own creative directors, were our own art directors, were our own cinematographers, lighting designers, set designers. And with nightlife still on pause, all these creative outlets that we used to have dont exist anymore, she continued. So this is necessary, its for our mental health. The show has also provided an outlet to be vocal about social justice. Over four months and 40 shows, the Cyber Clown Girls have donated more than $12,000 to organizations including the Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood and the Marsha P. Johnson Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting Black transgender people. The group would not divulge how much they receive in tips, but admission to each show is $5 to $20. After author J.K. Rowling was criticized for transphobic tweets, the strippers donated a portion of proceedings from their already-planned Harry Potter-themed show to the Trevor Project, an organization dedicated to suicide prevention for LGBTQ youth. When we performed live, we didn't have hosts to really explain some of the dancers backgrounds and things that we were fighting for, Coco Ono said. We were just bodies. In the loud club setting, the dancers didn't get the chance to speak about their experiences and the issues that mattered. Online, in between sets, they can directly engage with their audience about how they're feeling and why the group chose to donate to a particular organization. "I think people are really inspired and maybe in a little bit of awe that strippers care so much," Reagan said, laughing. Dancer Kitty (Kelly Vittetoe) and dancer Reagan (Megan Rippey) pose in front of their advertising campaign featured on public benches in Los Angeles. (Chad Goei) They work in an industry that attempts to control their weight, their look, their music choices. But online, theres a new kind of freedom and independence. "We dont tell anybody what to do, Coco Ono said. We embrace all sizes, shapes, looks, styles, and thats just so liberating to not have to worry about any of those things anymore. Cyber Clown Girls is part of a wave of inclusive, stripper-run virtual shows including a Native-owned strip and variety show, Cyber Sinferno, and a trans-owned and trans-inclusive show, Jolene. Coco Ono recently launched Sacred Wounds, a show centering Asian performers, and Reagan has also launched a solo online show, Janky Glamour. Performing to a camera has its perks. The dancers, to the best of their knowledge, can command their audience's full attention. It's easier to deal with harassment. There's no need for a muscled security guard; an audience members who is disrespectful can get kicked out of a show with a simple click. And learning new technologies has given strippers more avenues to control their livelihoods. But working entirely online comes with its challenges. Stringent censorship standards on Facebook and Instagram can make it difficult to promote virtual shows. And the group is struggling to find sponsors, including categories that would seem to be obvious fits, such as alcohol brands. A lot of them dont want to be associated with strippers. They dont want their name on our brand, Kitty said. Dancer Reagan (Megan Rippey) poses for a portrait in front of Jumbo's Clown Room on Monday, Sept. 21, 2020, in Los Angeles. (Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times) Every sexy woman, definitely every stripper, is facing these crazy, impossible standards of the internet where your account could be shut down, Reagan said. You could immediately lose in two seconds your entire following and your entire means of income. She cited SESTA/FOSTA the 2018 federal law aimed at online sex trafficking that adult entertainers and sex workers say has criminalized their work as particularly detrimental. Gabrielle, who makes a living through several online platforms, said a bikini picture was flagged and deleted by Instagram. My appeal has been sitting there for months, she said. I wasnt nude and my stuff was taken down for being nude. Its frustrating, the group said, especially seeing celebrities turn to sex worker culture and the stripper aesthetic to enhance their image. Dancer Danielle (Danielle Henderson) poses for a portrait in front of Jumbo's Clown Room on Monday, Sept. 21, 2020, in Los Angeles. (Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times) Actress Bella Thorne recently apologized to sex workers after joining the subscription platform OnlyFans. Performers who used the platform said she took business from people who needed the site to make a living. Other celebrities, including FKA twigs and Jennifer Lopez, have faced criticism for incorporating pole dance into their artistry without having to experience the stigma strippers face. They dont have to deal with any of the actual backlash of actually living this life on a daily basis, Coco Ono said. They never get deleted for posting dancing at the Super Bowl. The pandemic has forced many strippers to be more open about their work. Before the pandemic, Kitty, who has also performed with the dance company Luminario Ballet of Los Angeles, would upload posts about her work at Jumbo's that were sexy, but in a subtle way. Now, her Instagram is more overt. Dancer Kitty (Kelly Vittetoe) poses for a portrait in front of Jumbo's Clown Room on Monday, Sept. 21, 2020, in Los Angeles. (Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times) I put the pole up in my living room and I had all these videos up, and then I started losing followers. She had to make a choice continue being open about the way she makes a living or appease the people who are less open to that part of her life. Theres a reclaiming of what it means to be a stripper even the word "stripper" the collective said, adding they plan to continue their virtual show indefinitely. I feel like I cant even go all the way back, having this kind of control over the audience and not having to work for somebody, Reagan said. Taking the power back in an industry that often takes power away from women and dancers. Cyber Clown Girls co-founder Coco Ono during an online show. With pasties, lingerie and technology, the women have been able to move their performances to the virtual world, with some surprising results. (Kevin Kane) This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Jacob Hancher was killed during a shootout with a domestic violence suspect in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, on Saturday night A police officer was killed in South Carolina during an exchange of gunfire after responding to a domestic call, authorities said Sunday. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division said in a statement that a second officer was injured during the shootout in Myrtle Beach. A suspect was later found dead. The second officer was taken to a hospital with injuries not considered life-threatening. Witnesses told The Sun News they heard several shots around 10 p.m. Saturday. Police had said on social media that an officer-involved shooting had occurred around that time. Myrtle Beach Police Chief Amy Prock identified the fallen officer as Jacob Hancher. Hancher was a community service officer for four years and had been a patrol officer for less than a year, Prock said. He was the first Myrtle Beach officer killed while on duty since 2002. 'He was a dedicated public servant who upheld his oath to protect this community and made the ultimate sacrifice,' Prock said. Dozens of emergency vehicles responded as crowds gathered on streets and nearby hotel balconies to watch. Dozens of emergency vehicles responded as crowds gathered on streets and nearby hotel balconies to watch Hancher was a community service officer for four years and had been a patrol officer for less than a year. He was the first Myrtle Beach officer killed while on duty since 2002 Daisey Stockbauer and Jody Bowles also live near the shooting and went outside when they heard the gunfire. The two said when they went outside, they saw some police helping another officer limp away. The injured man sat near a fire hydrant and seconds later an ambulance picked him up. 'I wanted to go over and help him,' Stockbauer said. Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune asked on social media for prayers for the police department. 'They need our community to show them love, support and strength,' Bethune said. Police officers help their colleagues near the scene after Hancher was shot and killed Some community members gathered for a prayer vigil outside police headquarters Sunday afternoon, local news outlets reported, while others left tokens at the site of the shooting. Among the many who expressed condolences were Republican U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham and his November challenger, Democrat Jaime Harrison. A nonprofit group raising money for Hancher's family said he was survived by his mother, father, stepmother, sister and step-siblings. Hancher was a also a volunteer firefighter. Police vehicles are seen near the site of a shooting in Myrtle Beach on Saturday Tropical Storm Beta was drizzling on Houston when Denise Lanza noticed she was having regular contractions. This scenario had been in the back of her mind. Denise, a biological scientist, is married to Matt Lanza, a meteorologist who writes for Space City Weather, a go-to source for the region, especially during storms. The couple learned in January that they would be having a second child due in September. Matt felt excited hearing the news, then realized: Oh, of course, were going to have a baby due right at the peak of hurricane season. And what a hurricane season it had been. Hurricane Hanna hit Padre Island in July. Hurricane Laura barely missed Houston in August. Planning to name their son Theodore, Matt never imagined Hurricane Teddy would form by September. Yet already, the National Hurricane Center had identified so many storms that, for the first time since 2005, it was using the Greek alphabet to name them. Annie Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Contributor During Laura, the Lanzas stayed with Denises parents west of Houston, just in case. But Denise, 36, was trying to downplay Beta. She went for a morning walk, which she thought caused the contractions she now felt. She was scheduled for a cesarean section in three days. This is not labor, she thought. Im fine. Matt, 38, who works by day as an energy industry meteorologist, was posting frequent storm updates for Space City Weather. He shared the workload with Eric Berger, senior space editor at Ars Technica, who started the Space City Weather site after leaving the Houston Chronicle. Initially, the blog for Matt was a side gig. Then their straightforward, levelheaded updates during Hurricane Harvey drew some 4 million site visits. Houstonians counted on them during crises a responsibility Matt and Berger felt. Harvey changed Matts personal perspective, too. Awe of weathers power inspired him to become a meteorologist, but Harvey made him dread the impacts storms could have on peoples lives. He grew to hate them, and now another was coming. Denise, as her contractions continued, tried to stay calm. While Matt could envision every sort of disaster, Denise aimed to be a sounding board, advising him to focus on how to help with the skills he had. They ate dinner together even if he worked 18 hours. The pair, from New Jersey, met during college through a mutual friend. They shared in their nerdiness, Denise says. He was a self-proclaimed weather weenie. She got a Ph.D. in biomedical science. While they dated, she learned to spot storms for the National Weather Service. Annie Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Contributor Their wedding day brought chamber of commerce weather, as Matt calls it weather so good one wishes out-of-town folks would visit. They arrived in Houston in 2012, and Tropical Storm Bill hit while they moved homes in 2015. But no storm threatened their first sons birth in July 2018. As Sunday wore on, Denise began timing her contractions. Matt, who had another update to write, found her frazzled after the pain of one. She called the doctors office while he worked a bit more. Finally, she told him: Weve got to go. Suddenly, the storm wasnt the most pressing thing. Matt called Berger to ask if he could finish the 9 p.m. update. Berger, 47, felt excited for his colleague, though he had thought storm season would be winding down by the babys birth. He knew Matt loved being a dad. Matt typed out an end note: Im about to become a father for the second time. Berger, a dad too, prepared for what would be long days as his own home was pounded by rain. For now, rain fell lightly as Matt drove Deniseto the hospital. He wondered which would come first: Betas landfall or the baby. At 10:53 p.m., Theodore Kelvin Lanza was born, easily beating Beta. Matt took him to a waiting room with no idea what the weather was like; the room had no windows. All was well. Despite all the chaos around us, he said later, the important stuff worked out just fine. Its a story they will tell their son when hes older, Denise said: Yeah, you were born during a tropical storm. emily.foxhall@chron.com Siemens is a global technology powerhouse that has stood for engineering excellence, innovation, quality, reliability and internationality for more than 170 years. Morf3D will be collaborating with the Siemens Digital Industries Software business unit, whose AM solutions within its Xcelerator portfolio helps optimize products and qualify them for AM industrial-scale production. "The goal of this agreement is to facilitate the advancement of an end-to-end digital solution and develop new strategies for advanced engineering and design," said Morf3D CEO Ivan Madera. "By partnering we can leverage our unique integrated system of work to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing for development and production of new applications in a variety of industries. Siemens and Morf3D make a good team to accomplish this goal. Siemens has the end-to-end software to drive applications from design through 3D printing, and Morf3D has the expertise in AM operations to leverage that software so we can qualify and deliver those applications with optimal efficiency." Said Aaron Frankel, Vice President of the AM Program for Siemens Digital Industries Software, "Additive manufacturing is a viable technology for innovation in all industries. But, to achieve truly industrialized AM production takes more than technical capability. The industry needs partnerships like our collaboration with Morf3D, where ideas, know-how, AM technology, software and most importantly, people, come together to advance the art of the possible by rolling up their sleeves and fully delivering on new and inspiring applications." According to Madera, Morf3D is taking the challenge to accelerate the advancement of AM applications a step further. The company plans to launch an industry-wide challenge called "Project Afterburner," which will give one company, selected based on the value and originality of their AM application idea, an opportunity to bring a project to life from design all the way through 3D printing and post-processing at no cost. Madera estimated that the financial value to the winning company could be up to $100,000. "We're launching Project Afterburner for two reasons," Madera said. "The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the importance of additive manufacturing as a technology for rapid-response innovation. However, the financial uncertainties brought on by the pandemic have made it more difficult for companies to invest in AM operations and application development. We want to help those companies by giving them the resources and know-how they need to realize their dreams for additive manufacturing." The other reason that Madera has launched Project Afterburner has to do with the origins of Morf3D. "This will be the fifth-year anniversary of the founding of our company," Madera said. "We started Morf3D with the spirit of collaboration and revolutionizing manufacturing. It's only fitting that we celebrate our progress by enabling a company to advance their industry through additive manufacturing." Companies interested in Project Afterburner should go to www.morf3D.com. Morf3D is accepting submissions from now October 5th, 2020. Companies must satisfy a number of application requirements related to business case, design optimization needs, metal material usage, build volume size, and project timeframe in order to qualify. Candidates must also agree to allow Morf3D to publicize the progress on their part, the final results, and the benefits of the application. Morf3D is a privately held corporation headquartered in El Segundo, California. The company specializes in additive engineering and manufacturing with metals and provides advisory services in additive manufacturing strategy and technology adoption road-mapping. Morf3D's mission is enabling client proficiency in fully exploiting the benefits of additive engineering and manufacturing, and delivering innovative solutions that solve complex design and manufacturing challenges. Note: A list of relevant Siemens trademarks can be found here. Contact: [email protected], 310.607.0188 SOURCE Morf3D Inc. Related Links http://morf3d.com A French expert was confirmed as the latest COVID-19 patient in Vietnam on Monday, having been quarantined upon entry into the country last month, according to the Ministry of Health. She arrived at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi on board flight EK394 on September 19. The 57-year-old French expert was quarantined at Binh An 3 Hotel in Minh Phu Commune, Soc Son District, Hanoi upon landing. Her COVID-19 test at the Hanoi Center for Disease Control returned positive on Monday. She is currently isolated for treatment at the Dong Anh District branch of the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases in the capital city. Vietnam has recorded 1,097 COVID-19 patients as of Monday evening, with 1,022 recoveries and 35 virus-related deaths, the health ministry said. It has gone over one month without any infection in the community. A new wave of infections hammered the country on July 25, when touristy Da Nang logged the first community transmission after 99 days of zero domestic cases nationwide. A total of 551 local cases were then recorded across Vietnam in the following weeks, the majority linked to Da Nang. The nation spent more than a month aggressively tracing contacts and managing to suppress the outbreak afterward. Vietnam has resumed commercial flights to certain destinations, including Thailand, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and mainland China. Entrants from these places are now required to present certificates proving they tested negative for the novel coronavirus within three days of their boarding flights. Vietnam began denying entry to foreign nationals on March 22 but the government allows foreign experts, skilled workers, investors, and diplomats to enter the country on a case-by-case basis, subject to mandatory 14-day quarantine. The nation now charges international arrivals for quarantine. It provided the quarantine service for free in the past. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! TORONTO, Oct. 5, 2020 /CNW/ - The Company's results for the 2020 third quarter will be issued by press release on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 after the close of business at 5:00 p.m. ET. An Investor Conference Call will be hosted by Martin L. Juravsky, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and John G. Reid, President and Chief Executive Officer on Thursday, November 5, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. ET to review the results. The dial-in telephone numbers for the call are 416-764-8688 (Toronto and International callers) and 1-888-390-0546 (U.S. and Canada). Please dial in 10 minutes prior to the call to ensure that you get a line. A replay of the call will be available at 416-764-8677 (Toronto and International callers) and 1-888-390-0541 (U.S. and Canada) until midnight, Thursday, November 19, 2020. You will be required to enter pass code 699176# in order to access the call. If you would like to unsubscribe from receiving notices of our Investor Quarterly Conference Calls, you may do so by emailing [email protected]; or by calling our Investor Relations Line: 905-816-5178. If you have any additional questions, please contact our Investor Relations Department at [email protected] or 905-816-5178. Website: www.russelmetals.com SOURCE Russel Metals Inc. For further information: Sherri McKelvey, Assistant Secretary, Russel Metals Inc., (905) 819-7419, E-mail: [email protected] Related Links http://www.russelmetals.com By PTI JAIPUR: The Rajasthan ruling Congress on Monday compared Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adiyanath with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un over the gang-rape-cum-murder of a 19-year-old girl in UP's Hathras district and her hurried cremation. The ruling Congress made the comparison after staging a two-hour-long silent demonstration in protest against the Hathras incident even as the opposition BJP staged a 'halla bol' (raising cries) protest to highlight the worsening law and order in Rajasthan. After observing the silent protest at Shahid Smarkar here, the government's chief whip in Rajasthan assembly, Mahesh Joshi, compared Adityanath with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. "UP CM Yogi Adityanath is acting like North Korea's dictator Kim Jong. The victim's family is being suppressed and such things have never happened in the country's history," Joshi told reporters after the protest. "We have no hopes from the UP police. The way they are working cannot be trusted," he said. Joshi said the BJP has no moral right to raise questions. "They should demonstrate to get justice for the Hathras victim and against the Yogi Government instead. I pray God to create circumstances for the accused in the Hathras case to get the harshest possible punishment. Industry Minister Parsadi Lal Meena said probably no government in the history committed such a crime. The body was not given to the family. Which Indian culture is this, where the body is cremated late at night? What compulsion the government had to do such a thing? The way UP police misbehaved with media and Congress leaders is condemnable," Meena said. On the other hand, opposition BJP took out a protest march and held a demonstration near Civil Lines railway crossing. "The state government has been sleeping for 20 months and we had to do this 'Halla Bol' protest to wake up the government. The crime rate is increasing in the state and the law and order situation has deteriorated," Poonia said. He said Rajasthan has become the Crime capital of the country. BJP MLA Kalicharan Saraf said Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, who holds the Home Ministry's portfolio, has failed to keep crime under control. An important milestone in a missing baby cold case wherein NOBODY believes the official explanations. Read more: KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Sunday marks the anniversary of Baby Lisa's disappearance, and nine years later, police still don't know what happened to the little girl. Lisa Irwin was just 10 months old when she vanished from her Northland home on North Lister Avenue on Oct. 4, 2011. First lady Melania Trump called Stormy Daniels a 'porn hooker' on a new tape released by her ex-best friend Stephanie Winston Wolkoff. Wolkoff appeared on the latest episode of President Donald Trump's former lawyer Michael Cohen's podcast, 'Mea Culpa.' In one of the two clips Wolkoff debuted, the first lady can be heard telling her ex-aide about Daniels getting a photo shoot in Vogue by acclaimed photographer Annie Leibovitz. First lady Melania Trump (left) can be heard calling Stormy Daniels a 'porn hooker' in a new audio recording released by her ex-best friend Stephanie Winston Wolkoff First lady Melania Trump's ex-best friend and former aide Stephanie Winston Wolkoff released new audio clips when she appeared on Michael Cohen's podcast 'Mea Culpa' 'If you Google, go Google and read it Annie Leibovitz shot the porn hooker, as she will be in one of the issues, September or October,' Melania Trump can be heard saying in the tape. Wolkoff then asks the first lady, 'What do you mean, she shot the "porn hooker?"' 'Stormy,' the first lady replies. Wolkoff, who was a senior adviser to FLOTUS and then wrote the tell-all, 'Melania and Me,' can be heard replying, 'Shut the f*** up.' 'Oh you didn't read it. . It was yesterday it came out. For Vogue. She will be in Vogue. Annie Leibowitz shot her,' the first lady says. In a second clip Wolkoff shared with Cohen, the first lady discusses the president's popularity outside the bubble of the media elite. 'How does he have the energy?' Wolkoff asks the first lady. Melania Trump explains that it comes from the president's supporters. 'He goes there and you see those people. He has such a base. He, you know, when he travels,' the first lady says. 'Of course - he's the most popular Republican president ever.' 'The media, it's only liberal, so it's not out there but when you go to the middle of the country everybody's like ... even when I travel and I go places everybody's like amazing, right?' she continues. She's also heard talking about the 'great economy' and how people 'have jobs,' in the undated clip. Wolkoff left the White House in February 2018. Daniels and her then-lawyer Michael Avenatti were featured in Vogue in August 2018. That clip is also undated, though Wolkoff suggests she started taping her conversations with the first lady when they were already in the outs. 'I only started pressing record once I had already been severed and accused of criminal activity,' the author told Cohen. 'I really didn't plan on ever playing these tapes or ever releasing them because they were for my protection.' DENVER Alamosa School District is so short on educators that all it might take is the quarantine of a single class to leave many kids without a teacher. Thats largely because the southern Colorado district of 2,178 students is battling a significant K-12 substitute teacher shortage. Coronavirus fears have chased a large percentage of the sub pool away, Interim Superintendent Marsha Cody said. We actually need more subs than ever before, when we have less, Cody said. Its a problem other Colorado districts can sympathize with as the state faces a substitute teacher shortage that also reflects a burgeoning teacher shortage. The pandemic is only making it worse. In Denver Public Schools, the largest district in Colorado, a little more than half of the teachers active in the substitute pool said they were willing to take in-person assignments this fall. Now, districts are scrambling to figure out how to cover teacher absences and where to find more subs. And theyre being forced to get creative. In one district, parents are raising their hands to sub to help prevent a shortage. Other districts, including Alamosa, are looking within, at their own teacher and paraprofessional workforce, offering a financial incentive to those staff members who step up and fill in when needed. And in some districts, administrators who still hold a teaching license are adding the role of substitute to their many responsibilities. The states substitute teacher shortage isnt far off from a crisis, said Kallie Leyba, president of both the American Federation of Teachers Colorado and the Douglas County Federation. Were not there yet, but I think its right around the corner, Leyba said. Its not clear exactly how many subs Colorados 178 school districts need this school year. The Colorado Department of Education does not collect any substitute placement information, spokesman Jeremy Meyer said. All subs are locally hired and assigned by districts, Boards of Cooperative Educational Services and charter schools. But the shortage of subs has been an issue for several years in Colorado. Leyba last taught during the 2012-13 school year and recalls the shortage impacting classrooms then. Its growing this fall as the pandemic sidelines many older substitutes. A good portion of our substitute teachers are retired teachers, and so they are also the people who are at a higher risk for complications from COVID just because of their age, Leyba said. So many of them are not able to take that risk by going into a school building with a bunch of kids and exposing themselves. The risk is only enhanced by substitutes not operating within a schools cohorting system. Many Colorado schools are using cohorting this fall to contain groups of students: Smaller groups of students stick together and avoid interacting with other groups to lessen the chances of exposure. Because their jobs require them to move from classroom to classroom, substitutes are breaking those cohorts just left and right, Leyba said. Other factors are compounding the substitute shortage, creating a complicated scenario in which districts have an increased need for subs at the same time theyre up against a decreased supply, she said. One of those factors: new requirements that teachers take sick days for symptoms that in the past wouldnt demand that they stay home. For example, if a teacher has a cold or bad allergies, they must err on the side of caution and avoid coming to school this year, just in case they have the coronavirus. They cant return to the classroom until theyve taken a COVID-19 test and received a negative result. Additionally, under guidelines from the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment, teachers who were exposed to the virus in their school or community must take time off to quarantine, even if theyre technically healthy, Leyba said. The union president worries that some Colorado schools will have to close to in-person learning when teacher positions cant be covered by substitutes. I think well hit the tipping point where we cant stay open, she said. All hands on deck Alamosas substitute teacher shortage isnt a new problem, but the numbers this year are particularly troublesome. The sub pool has been sliced in half to 25, Cody said. Before the pandemic, the shortage of subs was influenced, in part, by the low pay. The Alamosa district pays subs who are retired teachers $110 per day. Subs who have a bachelors degree and are licensed teachers or have a substitute teaching license receive $100 per day, and subs who have a high school diploma and their substitute teaching license are paid $90 per day. The time and effort it takes to get a substitute teaching license is also a barrier, Cody said. Similar deterrents contributed to Denver Public Schools having vacancies in its classrooms before the pandemic. Working as a substitute teacher is a tough job, said Katie Clymer, executive director of talent for the district. Its especially challenging, she said, for a sub to come into a classroom and build community with students they dont know. As DPS, with about 92,000 students and 160 district-run schools, transitioned to remote learning in the spring as a result of the pandemic, the district removed about 450 inactive subs from its roster. That left about 750 substitutes, Clymer said. From that pool, about 400 are willing to work in person this fall, according to a survey conducted over the summer. The most successful schools bring their subs DPS calls them guest teachers into their community and essentially treat them like any teacher. DPS allows individual schools to hire and retain additional staff who are used as guest teachers, which a few have done. Working consistently in the same building helps provide job stability for subs and, because theyre familiar and readily available, creates the opportunity to earn more. Guest subs can even qualify for health insurance through the district if they work at least 20 hours a week. DPS guest teachers who are new to the district earn $118 per day. The pay increases to $150 per day after 50 days. Retired teachers earn $128 per day, which rises to $164 per day after working 50 days. There are other hurdles to building up a full force of DPS guest teachers. Some subs want to work near their homes or in schools where they previously taught. Some are willing to teach only specific grade levels, Clymer said. DPS also often needs guest teachers who can teach in Spanish for English language learners. Even with subs available, its not as simple as placing any guest teacher into any school. Because of health guardrails provided by Denver Public Health and guidelines the district has adopted around cohorting and the number of adults who can interact with a group, guest teachers will only be allowed to work at one school, Clymer said. Schools are going to have to be thoughtful about how they use each guest teacher so that they can still adhere to all the cohorting guidelines. Additional guidelines allow only four adults to be assigned to a cohort of students at any given time. DPS is recommending that schools include a guest teacher as one of those four people, Clymer said. The district has assigned at least one guest teacher to every school, and two to some schools, she said, and it continues to hire more guest teachers. As the pool increases, DPS is prioritizing placing them in early childhood education schools since they opened to students first. Elementary schools are another focus since theyre also opening to kids sooner, followed by attention to larger schools where higher numbers of staff could potentially be out for absences related to being quarantined, or not related to COVID-19 at all. Before the pandemic, DPS was typically able to fill about 90% of the classrooms that needed subs on any given day. The district doesnt have a firm target number of guest teacher positions its now looking to fill, Clymer said. We could easily take another 300-400 if not even more. In Alamosa, where retired teachers overwhelmingly decided not to return to the substitute corps this year, the district will pay teachers an additional $25 to forgo their planning period and sub in a classroom where needed, said Cody, the interim superintendent. Its not an ideal solution, she said, as teachers rely on that time to plan their own lessons. This fall, the district also introduced a stipend for experienced paraprofessionals willing to step in as subs. Alamosa will pay any paraprofessional who has been hired in the district and worked for 90 days $100 to cover the cost of getting a substitute license. Its another way to tackle the severe sub shortage, Cody said, but its also not a perfect approach as the district would like to see them supporting students in their cohort, including students learning English or those needing extra help. There are no great answers right now, Cody said. To try to help subs willing to teach this fall feel ready for classes, Alamosa offered a paid half-day training for subs to brief them on how to navigate the technology the district is using and on all the health precautions the districts schools have in place, including one-way hallways, masks and cohorting. Cody is particularly worried about the ripple effect of quarantining a class that has elective teachers, such as those teaching music, art or computer science, attached to it. All of those teachers would need to quarantine, too. That can create a big shortage very, very quickly, Cody said. She added that if multiple cohorts were to shut down, the district would need many subs immediately. Alamosa has already had to quarantine cohorts twice this year. During the first quarantine, which happened during the first week of school, part of a cohort had to quarantine. Luckily, many students were learning remotely at that time, Cody said, and the district had enough subs to cover while some teachers also taught through Zoom. During the second quarantine, one cohort had to be shut down and the district didnt have enough subs to cover. The cohort was released from quarantine after two-and-a-half school days, she said, but during that time staff members came forward to help. Some elective teachers who were quarantined connected to classrooms for instruction over Zoom. Those few days of quarantine brought the districts substitute shortage into full view. Other districts have taken a similar approach to making do without enough subs. Gunnison Watershed School District RE1J lost some of its subs this year because of COVID-19, said Lisa Danos, co-president of Gunnison County Education Association. To help prevent a district shortage, many parents who would normally never sub have stepped up. The parents want to make sure that students education isnt interrupted because of the virus, Danos said. With the potential of needing many more subs this year than in the past, the district could face a shortage, she said. The district has advertised for subs more this year than it normally does and may give a small pay increase to attract and retain them. Liz Mick, co-president of the union, said the district has also streamlined the application process to make it simpler for people who might be interested in subbing. When the pandemic hit last spring, Gunnison provided a bonus to its regular subs as a way to show appreciation for the work of teachers who suddenly lost income. Mick described it as a kind gesture of our district for subs, who are terribly underpaid. Douglas County School District is also boosting pay for subs through December, and high-level administrators who still hold an active teaching license have volunteered to fill subbing gaps if needed, said Leyba, of AFT Colorado and the Douglas County Federation. Its essentially an all-hands-on-deck situation where everyone knows that they may need to step into the classroom and we have to put the needs of the classroom first above everything else in the district right now, she said. Ready to return The Colorado Department of Education also is working to bring more subs into the system by developing a substitute recruitment page that gives instructions on how to apply for a substitute credential and links to districts that are looking, department spokesperson Meyer said. Additionally, CDE is collaborating with the states educator preparation programs to spread the message that in some cases, student teachers can serve as substitutes. Not all retirees who have subbed in Colorado have opted out of teaching in the classroom this year. Catherine Salazar, a retired DPS teacher who taught for the district for 35 years, has been subbing for about 10 years, covering classes in five schools including Thomas Jefferson High School, where she taught design and sculpture for most of her career. She hasnt been back to a DPS classroom since March 13, when the pandemic changed the districts plans. But she plans to return to the classroom in mid-October, when all students are scheduled to be back to in-person learning, if shes needed. I just think the kids need to be there, Salazar said. The kids need to be with their teachers, their school, their friends. Shes remained cautious throughout the pandemic, consistently wearing a mask and washing her hands repetitively, and she isnt worried about stepping inside a school. Salazar said she has found a sense of belonging with kids and teachers who know her as a familiar face. You feel like youre part of the faculty, kind of, when youre at the same school all the time, she said. Dennis McCormick shares Salazars enthusiasm to return to students. McCormick, who is retired after working in energy, is heading into his seventh year as a substitute teacher for DPS. Many members of McCormicks family taught school, including his mother, father and two sisters along with some of his aunts, uncles and nieces. That family background, along with McCormicks own interest in education, compelled him to begin subbing. Hes taught at 70 or 80 DPS schools. Like Salazar, McCormick subbed up until the pandemic shutdown. Hes not hesitant about being back in a classroom this year. Perhaps, he joked, I havent thought it through enough. Lenovo has announced new laptops in their premium ThinkPad series and ThinkBook series of laptops. In the ThinkPad series, the newly announced ThinkPad X1 Nano is their thinnest laptop ever, weighing in at less than a kg, and is powered by Intels latest 11th gen Core CPUs. The ThinkBook series has been expanded with three new laptops ThinkBook 13 Gen 2 i, ThinkBook 15 Gen 2 i and the ThinkBook 14s Yoga i. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano can be configured with up to 11th Generation Intel Core i7 processors with Intel Iris Xe graphics, and it is the first ThinkPad laptops to meet the Intel Evo Platform specifications. The laptop features Thunderbolt 4, a 13-inch 16:10 Dolby Vision 2K display with options for touch screens, 5G connectivity and the Match on Chip Fingerprint Reader. The Lenovo ThinkBook 13 Gen 2i also meets the Intel Evo Platform requirements, which includes quick device responsiveness, instant wake, great battery life and fast charge. It can be configured with WQXGA display and has a microphone setup where users can choose between private, shared and environmental sound modes. The ThinkBook 15 Gen 2i will offer Intels 11th Gen Core processors with the powerful Intel Iris Xe graphics. It also features Thunderbolt 4, long battery life, and an optional integrated wireless earbuds that can be stored within a slot in the laptop. The earbuds have dual mics with support for environmental noise cancellation and touch controls. The ThinkBook 14s Yoga i is the first 2-in-1 laptop in the ThinkBook Series, powered by Intel 11th Gen Core processors. Lenovo has made integrations with the Smart Pen and Windows Ink to ensure a seamless experience when note-taking or drawing. The ThinkPad X1 Nano is expected to be available in Q4 2020 and will priced starting from $1,399 (Approx. Rs. 1,02,405). The ThinkBook 13 Gen 2 i is expected to start sales from October 2020, for a starting price of $829 (Approx. Rs. 60,690), the ThinkBook 15 Gen 2 i is expected to also begin sales from October 2020 for a starting price of $569 (Approx. Rs. 41,655) and finally, ThinkBook 14s Yoga i is expected to launch in November for a starting price of $879 (Approx. Rs. 64,342). UNITED NATIONS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 02nd October, 2020) The offer made by Russian President Vladimir Putin at the UN General Assembly high-level week to provide free coronavirus vaccines to all UN staff was positively accepted by the Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzia told reporters on Thursday. "That idea was positively accepted by the Secretariat, I spoke to the Secretary-General on that issue," Nebenzia said when asked about the United Nations' response to the proposal. "The Secretary-General will appoint a focal point here at the United Nations to discuss the whole range of issues around it, because it's not that simple: there are various things around it - legal, procedural medical logistical, etcetera - that has to be discussed." JavaScript is disabled. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. You should upgrade or use an You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.You should upgrade or use an alternative browser The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council's 42nd meeting will take place on Monday. The meeting is expected to be a stormy affair as the opposition-ruled states plan to counter both offers presented by the Centre. To bring in consensus among states, the government has reportedly brought some changes in its 'borrowing plan', promising to enhance the borrowing limit from Rs 97,000 crore to Rs 1 lakh crore. The Centre has also agreed to lower the GST forecast from 10 per cent to 7 per cent proposed earlier. Despite these changes, the opposition states are expected to oppose both the borrowing options put forth by the Centre to meet the GST compensation shortfall due to COVID-19. These states are expected to come up with a third alternative option, which will be based on two "non-negotiable" principles, reported Business Standard. But, the NDA ruled states may ask the Centre to fasttrack the borrowing process to tide over the financial losses incurred by them due to COVID-19. Considering a huge revenue shortfall being faced by states, the government has also assured to extend the deadline to pay compensation cess beyond June 2022. The compensation cess is levied on luxury, demerit and sin goods. In the current fiscal, the states are staring at a staggering Rs 2.35 lakh crore GST revenue shortfall. Of this, about Rs 97,000 crore is on account of GST implementation and rest Rs 1.38 lakh crore is the impact of COVID-19 on states' revenues. Also read: 'Committed to compensate entire GST shortfall to states': FinMin sources The Centre in August gave two options to the states -- either borrow Rs 97,000 crore from a special window facilitated by the RBI or Rs 2.35 lakh crore from market. The non-BJP ruled states are at loggerheads with the Centre over the issue of funding the shortfall. Chief Ministers of six non-BJP ruled states - West Bengal, Kerala, Delhi, Telangana, Chhattisgarh and Tamil Nadu - had written to the Centre opposing the options, which require states to borrow to meet shortfall. While these states want the Centre to borrow to meet the shortfall, the Centre has argued that the revenue accruing from GST compensation cess goes to the states and the Centre cannot borrow on the security of the tax it does not own. Attorney General of India K K Venugopal had also given his legal view on the compensation cess issue where he has opined that there is no obligation on the Centre under the GST laws to compensate for the loss of revenue. The payment of GST compensation to states became an issue after revenues from the imposition of cess started dwindling since August 2019. The Centre had to dive into the excess cess amount collected during 2017-18 and 2018-19. The Centre had released over Rs 1.65 lakh crore in 2019-20 as GST compensation. However, the amount of cess collected during 2019-20 was Rs 95,444 crore. The compensation payout amount was Rs 69,275 crore in 2018-19 and Rs 41,146 crore in 2017-18. During April-July of the current fiscal, the total compensation due to states stand at over Rs 1.51 lakh crore. Also read: GST Council set for stormy meet on Monday as non-BJP states oppose borrowing option With PTI inputs To the Editor: Re Trump Shows Mild Symptoms After Positive Test, White House Says (nytimes.com, Oct. 2): We are all saddened at the news of President Trumps positive coronavirus test. But for the past eight months Mr. Trump has flagrantly disavowed the strong recommendations of the nations leading medical experts regarding distancing and masks. Now all those in recent contact with him are concerned for their personal health, as well they should be. We can only hope that Mr. Trump will now develop some empathy for those Americans who have lost family members, friends, jobs and businesses, all because of his dishonesty and his politicizing of what he knew early on was an approaching pandemic. Joel Schatzberg Lynbrook, N.Y. To the Editor: In discussing President Trumps positive coronavirus test, The Times states that the positive test could prove devastating to his political fortunes. However, it is entirely possible that it could give him a boost right when he needs it. If Mr. Trump and the first lady have relatively mild illnesses, he and his base could view that as evidence that he has been right all along, that this virus is no worse than the flu, and that a crisis was created by the media and the Democrats to make him look bad. Hathras gang-rape case: Congress stages protest in Mumbai; Seeks justice for Hathras victim's kin India oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P Mumbai, Oct 05: The Maharashtra Congress on Monday staged a protest in Mumbai over the alleged gang-rape and death of a 19-year-old woman from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh, and sought justice for the family of the deceased. Speaking during the protest, state Congress chief Balasaheb Thorat said the incident was unfortunate and a "blot on humanity" and alleged that the Uttar Pradesh governments role in the episode has been suspicious. Karnataka CBI raids: BJP terms Congress' protests as 'ridiculous, meaningless' Thorat, who is Maharashtra's revenue minister, and other Congress leaders, including Mumbai unit president Eknath Gaikwad, staged the satyagrah (insistence on truth) protest near Mahatma Gandhis statue close to the secretariat. The protest was in line with the partys call for 'satyagraha' by its leaders and workers at district headquarters of various states across the country on Monday to demand justice for the family. 'Raid Raj' is BJPs only machiavellian move: Congress on DK Shivakumar raids "The Hathras incident was unfortunate and a blot on humanity. The Uttar Pradesh governments behaviour in this case has been suspicious," Thorat said. "This (behaviour) will not give justice to the woman and her family. We are seeking justice for her," he added. The minister said the 19-year-old woman was not given proper medical treatment required after the alleged atrocity was committed against her. JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News Samajwadi Party delegation meets family of Hathras woman, assures help He alleged that the womans body was cremated in the dead of the night and her family members were not allowed to attend her funeral. "We all think it is suspicious. Hence, Priyankaji (Congress general secretary) has raised some questions and we need answers from the Uttar Pradesh government," he said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday recommended a CBI probe into the alleged gang-rape and death of the 19-year-old Dalit woman that triggered a nationwide outrage. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 14:16 [IST] (CNN) If you get sick with COVID-19, don't expect to get the same treatment as US President Donald Trump. It may seem obvious the country's leader would receive extra attention and the best care possible. But some of the treatment he's getting isn't even available to the general public. That fact may have been lost on Trump when he told millions of followers "Don't be afraid of Covid." "I feel better than I did 20 years ago!" he tweeted Monday -- not mentioning that other Americans with the deadly disease don't have access to the drugs and treatment he received. Before he was hospitalized Friday, Trump received Regeneron's experimental antibody therapy which may reduce levels of coronavirus and has shown promising results in a trial involving 275 patients. But the treatment has not yet received emergency use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration. Biotech company Regeneron said it provided the drug after receiving a "compassionate use" request from Trump's doctors. For most people, "getting access to not-yet-approved drugs through a compassionate use request can be a long and challenging process," the Mayo Clinic said, listing a series of requirements that most patients would need to meet. But Trump received the therapeutic Friday, just one day after he tested positive for Covid-19, according to the White House press secretary and Trump's doctor. "Of course, this is the President of the USA. He is going to get the kitchen sink thrown at him medically, offered all there is -- whether it's authorized under emergency use or not, in the case of the antibody treatment," epidemiologist Dr. Seema Yasmin said. "But then there are (almost) 210,000 Americans who have died over the past few months because the pandemic response has been so bad. And they certainly didn't get access to this kind of treatment." That's not the only advantage Trump has compared to the hundreds of thousands of other Americans who have been hospitalized with coronavirus. Trump may be 'the only patient on the planet' to get these 3 drugs In addition to the experimental antibody therapy, Trump was also given remdesivir and dexamethasone. "The President might be the only patient on the planet ever to receive this particular combination of medicines," said Dr. Jonathan Reiner, a professor of medicine at George Washington University. Remdesivir has not received FDA approval for the treatment of Covid-19, but it's gotten an emergency use authorization from the agency. Clinical trials have shown that a five-day course of remdesivir can speed recovery times in some patients. But the antiviral can also cause side effects such as anemia, liver toxicity and kidney toxicity. Remdesivir is administered by IV, so patients are typically hospitalized when getting the five-day course. But Trump's doctors let him go home early Monday evening to finish the treatment. Unlike other Americans' homes, Trump has an in-house White House Medical Unit, "where he'll be surrounded by world-class medical care," his physician Dr. Sean Conley said. Trump has also received dexamethasone, a cheap and widely available corticosteroid that can reduce inflammation. But it also suppresses the immune system, so it's generally not recommended for Covid-19 patients unless the situation is severe. Some patients who have benefited from dexamethasone still die less than a month later, Reiner said. "We know that dexamethasone does reduce the risk of mortality. That comes from data from a trial called the Recovery trial," Reiner said. "But to show you what the stakes are, the patients in that trial who received dexamethasone and derived a benefit still had a 23% 28-day mortality rate. So almost a quarter of the patients treated with dexamethasone were dead by a month out," Reiner said. "So the only conclusion one can make from this triple therapy is that the President's physicians feel that he's in grave danger." Conley said his patient seemed well enough to leave Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Monday evening. But he acknowledged he's concerned about a possible reversal in Trump's condition. "That's why we all remain cautiously optimistic and on guard, because we're in a bit of uncharted territory when it comes to a patient that received the therapies he has so early in the course," Conley said. Abundant access to testing While many Americans have struggled to get Covid-19 tests or test results without massive delays, Trump has been "the most tested man in America," White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said. "He's tested more than anyone -- multiple times a day," McEnany said in July. (Later that same day, Trump contradicted his press secretary, saying, "I do take, probably on average, a test every two days, three days. And I don't know of any time I've taken two tests in one day. But I could see that happening.") Trump's abundance of testing is in stark contrast to the availability for most Americans. While testing nationwide has ramped up in recent months, the White House just last week announced its plan to distribute 150 million rapid tests that was initially touted in August. The White House has cited Trump's frequent testing as a reason why he didn't need to wear a mask in public. But health experts have said that's flawed logic. Unlike face masks, testing provides zero protection against getting infected. And even if everyone around you got tested, some test results are actually false negatives. Still, there are advantages to having easy access to frequent testing. After Trump's top aide Hope Hicks fell ill and tested positive last week, Trump was able to quickly get tested. And that could have allowed him to quickly isolate himself and protect others as soon as possible. But Dr. Conley has given conflicting reports about when Trump first tested positive. Conley first reported Saturday that Trump was "just 72 hours into the diagnosis now" -- meaning Trump would have had Covid-19 on Wednesday, the day before he traveled to New Jersey for a campaign fundraiser. Another physician, Dr. Brian Garibaldi, said Trump was treated with an experimental antibody therapy "about 48 hours ago," which would have been midday Thursday. After widespread concerns about that timeline and Trump's fundraising trip, Conley released a statement saying he meant to say Trump was on his third day of illness Saturday, not that he was diagnosed on Wednesday. McEnany insisted Trump first tested positive after returning from New Jersey on Thursday. It's important to note Covid-19 patients who get symptoms are often more contagious before they start showing symptoms. McEnany refused to answer questions Sunday about whether Trump was tested Tuesday before his debate with Joe Biden. She also refused to say whether Trump was tested Thursday before his fundraising trip to New Jersey. Conley also refused to say when Trump's last negative test result was. Emergency medicine physician Dr. Leana Wen said it's critical to know Trump's recent testing history and when he started to be contagious -- especially because other people's health is at stake, too. "It's important for us to know for his condition, and also for the purposes of contact tracing, to safeguard the health of others around him ... not only his senior staff, but also the wait staff, the Secret Service agents, the people who attended his rallies," Wen said. "Those people matter, too." The lack of details about Trump's recent testing also means "we don't actually know what is the course of the President's illness because we don't know when he last tested negative," Wen said. "If he were actually getting daily tests -- let's say he got a negative test on Wednesday and a positive test on Thursday -- then we should be alarmed by how quickly the President is progressing, how quickly his symptoms are developing," she said. "But if in fact he had a negative test much earlier, and perhaps a positive test even earlier, too, then that course of the illness actually makes more sense." Despite his advantages, Trump's Covid-19 battle could be lengthy Just because Trump was discharged from the hospital Monday evening doesn't mean his fight with Covid-19 is over. Some patients "seem to be doing OK initially. In fact, many of these patients may get discharged from the hospitals when they first come in," Wen said. "But then they go home, and they return because they worsen over time. Actually the median time, from when somebody first starts getting symptoms to when they may need ICU care -- if they end up in the intensive care unit -- is 10 to 12 days," she said. "So we should be relieved that the President is doing well for now, if that's indeed the case. But we should not be breathing a sigh of relief quite yet because there's still some time to come." Donald Trumps COVID-19 infection and subsequent hospital stay have elicited sudden and urgent interest in the 25th Amendment, a provision that outlines procedures for succession should the president become incapacitated or otherwise unable to fulfill the duties of the office. The amendment, added to the U.S. Constitution in 1967 after John F. Kennedys assassination, spells out a few different ways that authority can move from the president to the vice president in times of crisis. Section 3 stipulates procedures for a president to voluntarily transfer their powers to the vice president and then reclaim them at a later date. This has typically occurred when a president is undergoing a medical procedure; for example, George W. Bush handed power over to Dick Cheney in 2002 and 2007 before going under anesthesia for a colonoscopy. Section 4, which has never been invoked, spells out how the vice president and a Cabinet majority can initiate a power transfer without the presidents consent if they attain a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers of Congress. Such a step may be necessary if a president suddenly becomes unconscious or faces some other debilitating health emergency. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Subscribe to the Slatest newsletter A daily email update of the stories you need to read right now. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time. In 2017, Maryland Rep. Jamie Raskin introduced a bill that would supplement the 25th Amendment by creating a congressionally appointed commission consisting of physicians and senior leaders that could assess a presidents mental and physical condition and also work with the vice president to initiate a power transfer. Section 4 dictates that the vice president seek to assume power either with the support of the Cabinet or with such other body as Congress may by law provide. Congress had never moved to establish such a body, but Raskin, a Democrat, believes its past due. He expects to release an updated version of the bill this week. I spoke with the congressman on Saturday to get his thoughts on the 25th Amendment and Trumps condition. The transcript of our conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity. Advertisement Advertisement Aaron Mak: What do you think the 25th Amendment says about how we should be thinking about the presidents illness right now? Rep. Jamie Raskin: The 25th Amendment places a premium on political stability and continuity. It mightve been wiser for the president to make the decision when he first got the diagnosis to temporarily transfer powers over to the vice president. Thats accomplished by letter, and then the president can revoke it by letter whenever he wants as well. At least as of now he has not decided to do that. That does create the possibility that if the president takes a dramatic turn for the worse, God forbid, then the vice president and a Cabinet majority, or vice president and a congressional body appointed for these purposes, would have to act. The standard is whether the president can execute the powers and duties of office or not. Someone who has mild symptoms can execute the powers and duties of office, but someone who is on a ventilator obviously cannot. Judgment calls need to be made all along the spectrum. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Have you thought about what it might mean to be incapacitated when it comes to COVID-19? At what stage in the illness do Pence and the Cabinet really need to considering invoking Section 4? The 25th Amendment defines presidential inability as the president being unable to successfully execute the powers and duties of the office. Now, the presidency depends upon massive delegation of responsibility. But ultimately the president has to be of sufficiently sound mind and body that he can make important judgments relating to the execution of the laws. Again, were on a continuum. A president who has the equivalent of a cold or a light flu can still make executive decisions. At the other end of the spectrum, a president who is unconscious, intubated, or on a ventilator is going to find it impossible to make the judgements necessary for effective executive branch decision-making. Then there might be closer-call judgments all along the way. Thats why you need something like an independent body that would have the authority to send in the doctors to make various judgments about the physical, mental, and cognitive state of the president. Advertisement Advertisement Are there any ambiguities in the 25th Amendment that could leave us unprepared to deal with a president who has COVID-19? Advertisement Advertisement Because these judgments are so fine-grained and complex, the 25th Amendment depends on an exacting legal architecture. No president can be removed against his or her will without the consent of the vice president and then two-thirds of Congress essentially to determine that theres incapacity. Thats a pretty tough procedural check. Its always difficult to determine what dusk is, but we know the difference between day and night. Youve proposed creating a commission that could work with the vice president to invoke Section 4. What could such a commission have been doing this weekend while Trump was in hospital? Advertisement Advertisement A reason to have such a body is that there would be medical authorities and wise government officials caucusing to make those decisions. You go back and look at H.R. 1987, which was the version that I drafted in the last Congress, and youll find that the body would have the authority to conduct an exam of the president. The body could request a complete physical checkup, for example. Why cant the Cabinet just take care of this COVID-19 situation, instead of the commission? The authors of the 25th Amendment wanted to make sure that all of the decision-making did not rest exclusively in the executive branch. We can see from the Trump presidency the wisdom of creating a congressional body as well as having an executive body to consider the situation. The president exercises a powerful hold over his Cabinet and over the vice president. That is not necessarily conducive to the best decision-making. It might not be a problem, but it could be. Having an independent, bipartisan, congressionally arranged body would allow for effective action or at the very least a second opinion about the situation. The vice president himself might be reluctant to initiate a temporary transfer of power to himself, but an outside body might be less reluctant to say it is clearly indicated. Advertisement Advertisement Has the coronavirus affected how you think about this bill as youre in the process of tweaking it? And how are you making sure that the bill isnt just reacting to the pandemic but also equipped to handle other sorts of crises that might occur in the future? I was besieged by calls by colleagues [Friday] saying, We need to bring your bill back. The main thing you want is to create sufficient flexibilities for the commission to act effectively while you also have the background constitutional and statutory checks to make sure that its not being exploited for political reasons. The Constitution kind of takes care of it by simply saying you need a two-thirds vote in the House and the Senate to remove a president who is protesting his own capacity to act. Its well-designed from that perspective because its a more difficult standard than impeachment. Theres no way that you would ever get a political drive to do this because you would need two-thirds in the House rather than just a majority vote, which is the impeachment standard. I think theres wisdom in the way the procedural safeguards have been built into it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is an exceedingly modest measure that is totally contemplated by the Constitution. Its just a shame that it wasnt done decades ago by another Congress. In politics, we so often react to an immediate crisis, and its very hard to get people to think institutionally outside of the context of a crisis. But then when the crisis comes, people are thinking its all political. We have to try to show a little bit of the vision and the humanity of the founders of the original constitution and of the 25th Amendment, which contains a lot of wisdom. Dallas, Texas, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Thin Film Material Market By Type (CdTe, CIGS, a-Si, Others), End-User [Photovoltaic Solar Cells, MEMS, Semiconductors and Electrical (Circuit Boards), Optical Coating, Others], Deposition Process (Chemical deposition process, Physical deposition process) and Region (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific), and Global Forecast, 2018 to 2028 study provides an elaborative view of historic, present and forecasted market estimates. Request a pdf sample at https://www.adroitmarketresearch.com/contacts/request-sample/1635 The global thin film material market is anticipated to reach nearly USD 30.7 billion by the year 2028. Also, the market is forecasted to gather a CAGR of above 12% over the forecast period of 2018 to 2028. Rapid industrialization around the globe is projected to boost the demand along with the growing need for advanced products from the consumers. Moreover, the growing advantages of thin-film material are anticipated to raise sales over the coming years. The rapid growth of the commercial sector across the emerging economies, including India, China, South Korea, and Indonesia is expected to fuel demand for thin film materials in the industry. The report also outlines the various characteristics of the global thin film material industry by assessing the market from value chain analysis. Moreover, the thin film material market report comprises various qualitative parts of the thin film material industry in market restraints, essential industry drivers, and opportunities. Furthermore, the report provides a complete assessment of the market through company profiling and the competitiveness of the local as well as global vendors. Browse the full report with Table of Contents and List of Figures at https://www.adroitmarketresearch.com/industry-reports/thin-film-material-market The thin film material market has huge competition amongst the already well-known and new market players. Also, the thin film material industry players are pursuing potential markets to seize a competitive lead among the other industry players by forming mergers & acquisitions, agreements, acquiring other companies & new startups, establishing collaboration & partnerships, and growing their business existence. It is anticipated that technical advances in semi-conductor packaging would have a positive effect on business development. Favorable government policies in countries like Japan, Germany, and China promotes the use of thin film material in solar photovoltaics and is projected to increase the market growth in the coming years. The growing demand for solar photovoltaic cells would boost the demand for thin film materials in the coming years. Are you looking for a DISCOUNT? If yes, then get in touch with us at https://www.adroitmarketresearch.com/contacts/discount/1635 The Asia-Pacific region is projected to accumulate the highest growth during the forecast years. The Asia Pacific market for thin film materials is expected to contribute significant market revenue shares, which can be attributed to increased adoption of new technologies and growing manufacturing activities in the industrial sector. The Asia Pacific is expected to experience rapid growth over the forecast period due to rising electronics and photovoltaic manufacturing industries, especially in India and China's emerging economies. Technological growth and changing economic conditions in APAC remain a growing and lucrative sector for thin film products in the industry. The growing adoption of the new technology has increased the North American demand for thin film materials and is expected to experience substantial growth over the forecast period. North America has a major share in the industry and is projected to expand at a substantial pace over the coming years due to growing photovoltaic installations. Direct purchase the report at https://www.adroitmarketresearch.com/researchreport/purchase/1635 The major players of the global thin film material market are Ascent Solar, First Solar, Avancis GmbH & Co., Anwell Solar, Cicor Group, Hanergy. Moreover, the market comprises several other prominent players in the thin film material market as Moser Baer, Trony Solar Holdings Co. Ltd., Suntech Power Co. Ltd., Masdar PV, Kaneka, Solar Frontier. The thin film material market comprises well established local as well as global players. In addition to this, the previously recognized market players are coming up with new and advanced strategic solutions and services to stay competitive in the global market. Major Points from Table of Contents: Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Research Methodology Chapter 3 Market Outlook Chapter 4 Market Outlook Chapter 5 Thin Film Material Market by Deposition Process Chapter 6 Thin Film Material Market by Application Chapter 7 Thin Film Material Market by Type Chapter 8 Thin Film Material Market By Region Chapter 9 Competitive Landscape Chapter 10 Company Profiles Access research repository of Upcoming Reports @ https://adroitmarketresearch.com/upcoming.html About Us: Adroit Market Research is a global business analytics and consulting company incorporated in 2018. Our target audience is a wide range of corporations, manufacturing companies, product/technology development institutions and industry associations that require understanding of a markets size, key trends, participants and future outlook of an industry. We intend to become our clients knowledge partner and provide them with valuable market insights to help create opportunities that increase their revenues. We follow a code Explore, Learn and Transform. At our core, we are curious people who love to identify and understand industry patterns, create an insightful study around our findings and churn out money-making roadmaps. A United Kingdom (UK) based Ghanaian-owned charitable organization, Project Ghana has donated hospital equipment to the Kumasi Kwadaso Seventh Day Adventist Hospital in the Ashanti Region. The donation is aimed at ensuring the smooth running of the outfit. The items include hand gloves, aprons, theatre equipment for surgical procedures, wounds care items, acupuncture for bannulatory, Sema, flama, clutches, scale machines, nurses uniforms and surgical guns. Presenting the items, the Project Manager of Project Ghana, Mr. Kwadwo Densi Amankwaah disclosed that Project Ghana was established in the United Kingdom in 1998 as a charitable organization by a group of Ghanaians mostly health professionals to support local health facilities in Ghana. He said, on their agenda, Kwadaso SDA hospital was included as one of its beneficiaries to benefit from its annual grants schemes in various forms including material supply. Mr. Amankwaah underscored that the NGO came to Ghana about two years ago to make donation whiles undertaking some staff members of the hospital through some health training workshops as part of meeting their social obligations. He added that his organization as usual planned for another donation in April this year but was constrained by the emergence of the Covid -19 pandemic, even though the equipment meant for the donation had already been shipped to Ghana. He indicated that the headquarters of the Project Ghana in the United Kingdom dispatched him to Kumasi to make the donation to avoid waste as covid-19 pandemic cases go low. He expressed his outfits readiness to support the hospitals at all times and assured that the NGO will come back to Ghana next year to make another gesture and fraternise themselves with the staff. According to him, the organisation will undertake some of the staff through various health seminars to become abreast with their issues in the health sector and how to put the equipment to good use to benefit the society. Receiving the items, Dr. Randolph Baah Adu, Medical Superintendent of the hospital thanked Project Ghana for the offer and like Oliver Twist asked for more. The doctor indicated that the hospital is facing lot of challenges in some departments like the Female Labour Wards that need equipment to enhance easy delivery, CCTV monitors among others. He added that the ongoing construction of the new ultra-modern building edifice also need a push to complete early. He passionately made an appeal that as an NGO with health experience, Project Ghana should put on their agenda to organize short courses for some of his hospital staff in the United Kingdom to refresh and upgrade their skills to enhance their professions in the health delivery system in Ghana. On his part the Board Chairman/President of the Central Ghana Conference of the Kwadaso branch of the Seventh Day Adventist, Pastor Asamoah Kwarteng was grateful to the Project Ghana. He stressed that about two years ago the NGO made an impressive offer to the hospital, hoping that the good Lord will open the doors for them to ensure the rapid growth of the outfit. Pastor Kwarteng asking for more assured that the expensive equipment would be used in line with the mission purposes to benefit the society. Chouhan was scheduled to meet Central BJP leaders to finalise the candidates for the November 3 assembly by-polls Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan pays tributes to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary, in Bhopal. PTI photo Madhya Pradesh chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Sunday left for Delhi to finalise candidates for the 28 assembly constituencies which are going to by-polls on November 3. Mr Chouhan was scheduled to meet Central BJP leaders to finalise the candidates for the November 3 assembly by-polls in the state which may prove crucial for survival of his government. BJP has earlier in principle decided to re-nominate the 25 ex-Congress MLAs who have resigned from the house and the grand old party leading to collapse of Kamal Nath government in March this year, from their respective assembly seats in the ensuing by-elections. However, the party was yet to finalise candidates for three other assembly constituencies, Joura, Agar and Byabra, leading to the delay in the release of the candidates list. By-elections in these 3 assembly seats were necessitated following the death of sitting MLAs. State election committee of the party has recommended 2 names each for the three assembly seats to the Central election committee of party for finalization of candidates for these constituencies, a senior BJP leader here said. Filing of nomination for the assembly by-elections would commence from October nine. Congress has already announced its candidates for 24 assembly seats. Similarly, BSP has come out with a list of its candidates for 18 seats. Both the parties are expected to declare candidates in the rest poll-bound assembly constituencies in a day or two. While BJP has strength of 107 in the 230-member MP assembly, Congress has 88 MLAs. Top business leaders said on Monday the global economy was facing its worst crisis in a hundred years due to the ongoing coronavirus, and downside risks remained elevated unless urgent reforms were enacted during the G-20 summit which will be hosted by Saudi Arabia in November. The global economy is in its worst state in a century, warned Yousef Al-Benyan, chairman of the Business Twenty (B20), a group made up of high-level CEOs from around the world, according to CNBC. The challenging opportunity is to build back better, with real urgency required from ... Dear Reader, Business Standard has always strived hard to provide up-to-date information and commentary on developments that are of interest to you and have wider political and economic implications for the country and the world. Your encouragement and constant feedback on how to improve our offering have only made our resolve and commitment to these ideals stronger. Even during these difficult times arising out of Covid-19, we continue to remain committed to keeping you informed and updated with credible news, authoritative views and incisive commentary on topical issues of relevance. We, however, have a request. As we battle the economic impact of the pandemic, we need your support even more, so that we can continue to offer you more quality content. Our subscription model has seen an encouraging response from many of you, who have subscribed to our online content. More subscription to our online content can only help us achieve the goals of offering you even better and more relevant content. We believe in free, fair and credible journalism. Your support through more subscriptions can help us practise the journalism to which we are committed. Support quality journalism and subscribe to Business Standard. Digital Editor BELDING, MI -- State regulators will likely fine a manufacturer that caused multiple toxic chlorine gas releases in a residential area $115,000 and forbid the company from using the chemical which caused the releases. Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy officials announced Monday morning, Oct. 5, the proposed measures against Kassouni Manufacturing Inc. as part of a settlement order. The settlement order, as proposed, will remain in effect for at least two years. EGLE is accepting public comments on the proposed order through Nov. 4. Barring significant public comment on the settlement, the order fining the company and forbidding it from using the gas-releasing chemical will go into effect following the public comment period. The proposed order relates to multiple fires and minor chlorine gas releases in summer 2019. No one was injured during the fires and gas releases, but nearby residents reported the stench of chlorine in the air and a burning feeling on their skin as a thick fog blanketed the area. State regulators at the time said KMI repeatedly mishandled the chemical, called trichloroisocyanuric acid, responsible for the fire and gas releases. KMI used the chemical to produce pool-chlorinating tablets. KMI, located next to a residential area of Belding at 815 S Front St., also manufactures other products not related to the chemical, like its ice melt for roofs. Trichloroisocyanuric acid catches fire and releases chlorine gas when exposed to small amounts of water. Rainwater entered the building through holes in the roofs. City officials previously said the company put tarps under the holes to direct rainwater into containers. Related: Belding manufacturer scrutinized for chemical fires loses supplier, purchaser Following the June and July 2019 fires, KMI was ordered by the court to temporarily not use or store the chemical at its facility following a petition from the Ionia County Health Department. In March of this year, KMI and Belding entered into a consent judgment forbidding the company from using, storing or processing products with the chemical at its facility, according to EGLE. Although the toxic chlorine gas releases were relatively minor, some residents and city officials were on edge after a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency hypothetical incident modeling report showed between 136 and 470 Belding residents could die in worst-case chlorine gas release scenarios. EPA officials at the time cautioned a release of that magnitude as highly unlikely. Related: Facilitys chlorine gas release, EPA report concerning for residents, city officials The order, as well as the terms forbidding use of trichloroisocyanuric acid, can be terminated after this two-year period at the request of KMI but only if EGLE finds KMI has maintained its obligations under the order. Public comments on the order can be sent to Jeff Rathbun at RathbunJ1@Michigan.gov, or by mail to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; Air Quality Division, P.O. Box 30260, Lansing, MI, 48909. Read more: What pending changes to expungement laws mean for setting aside criminal records in Michigan Are Michiganders still living under coronavirus orders? Gov. Whitmer asks Supreme Court to clarify Kent County urges residents to follow coronavirus safety measures amid statewide order confusion The Black Sea is part of an "arc of instability" that is "often fuelled" by opponents of a European and Euro-Atlantic path, Romania's Foreign Minister Bogdan Aurescu said on Monday, according to Agerpres. "If we look today at the eastern flank of NATO, which in its southern part includes the Black Sea region, the geopolitical and geoeconomic interconnection with the Eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East, the South Caucasus, all of that makes the Black Sea part of an arc of instability that after all concerns and must concern to the utmost degree both NATO and the European Union. That arc of instability is often fuelled, instrumentalised by opponents of Romania's European and Euro-Atlantic path, which also creates difficulties for our partners in the region, our close partners who are trying to achieve a better, more prosperous and more European future through efforts that are often less known to the general public," said the head of the Romanian diplomacy. He participated, at the headquarters of the Romanian Academy, in the launch of "The Geopolitical Black Sea Encyclopaedia," edited in Romania and printed by the Cambridge Scholars Publishing. Aurescu said the book will bring "better understanding of the Black Sea region, because the developments in this region have always been a priority for Romania's actions, and the Black Sea theme remains by nature a defining, timeless dimension of Romania's strategic profile" "From Minsk to Damascus, we can see a number of persistent challenges to the stability and security of the affected regions. There is a political crisis in Belarus, frozen and re-ignited conflicts, depending on the context, often with the same self-proclaimed saviours, with goals that are not at in line with what we want, sharpening differences in the Eastern Mediterranean, all of which have implications for the Black Sea," he said. He added that "democratic stability in the region, the fundamental rights of the citizens, the territorial integrity of the states, their security, are all threatened by approaches that violate basic rules and principles." "In the year that marks the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, we cannot but see how at this point of intersection of various geopolitical plates, but also against a background complicated by the current pandemic crisis, the risks arising from undermining international law, a global rule-based order, principled and effective multilateralism, sometimes by design, are increasing." In his turn, British ambassador to Romania Andrew Noble spoke about the importance of understanding this region. He said the traditional distinction between domestic and external problems is becoming increasingly irrelevant as misinformation is attacking our rules, as witnessed in the case of the coronavirus crisis. Several actors in the Black Sea region, he added, are using a range of tools and have shown that they are open to confrontation on our soil and also abroad. The Salisbury and Navalny cases are important examples of that, and works like this encyclopaedia will help us better understand and respond to such complex challenges. At the same time, he mentioned closeness between the UK and Romania in terms of the analysis of these situations. Director of the Institute of Political Science and International Affairs of the Romanian Academy Dan Dungaciu, the editor, said the book is a first of Black Sea geopolitics assessment for the world market. "It is a good thing that it has been written by researchers from Romania," he said. At the same time, Dungaciu said the region is under-represented in research. "We also tried to present a perspective from Romania, relatively localised, a perspective that tries to put on the map of Western concerns the way in which Romania sees the Black Sea at a time when the Black Sea, to be very realistic, is not necessarily a main concern. Unfortunately, the Black Sea is the least written about, the least talked about area, it has the least, so to speak, academic aggregations (...) we have compared it with the Baltic Sea: books, conferences on the Baltic Sea appear annually," said Dungaciu. *** "The Geopolitical Black Sea Encyclopaedia" assesses the region from various political, historiographical, sociological, economic, military, culturological, geographical perspectives, while emphasising the geopolitical developments inside the complicated space. The book is a compilation of the analyses of 19 authors - researchers of the Ion I. C. Bratianu Institute of Political Science and International Affairs of the Romanian Academy and contributing experts - of the edifying role that the Black Sea has taken up amidst European geopolitics and the climate generating Eastern, Balkan, Eurasian partnerships. According to Dungaciu, thanks to a generous summary (154 encyclopaedia entries), the book provides fundamental geopolitical information and multilateral perspectives related to the management of political, diplomatic, military, economic efforts of the states in the contact and impact areas of the Black Sea (Russia, the European Union, NATO, the Balkan Peninsula and Turkey) in mitigating the conflict effects specific to the "disruptive lobby" of Eurasia. SIOUX CITY -- The set-up in the satellite voting center in Sioux City on the first day of early voting in Iowa not only had a pile of I voted early stickers, but also plastic barriers between workers and voters, hand sanitizer and face masks for people who dont bring them as required. Those latter items were added out of the realities of voting happening Monday in the middle of the novel coronavirus pandemic. The day marked the beginning of early voting not only in Iowa but also neighboring Nebraska. Woodbury County Auditor Pat Gill set up one satellite polling place in the Long Lines Family Rec Center, which will be open weekdays through the end of October. As the doors opened at 8 a.m., 20 people were waiting, and 70 had voted by 10 a.m., county deputy commissioner of elections Steve Hofmeyer said. "There were people lined up and ready to go," Hofmeyer said. Within a half hour more, a few dozen people filed in to vote, taking the number to 100 well before noon. Several Sioux City residents said they liked getting their voting done early. "We just decided it would be easier, for convenience reasons. I have the day off," Barb Jerome said. Jerome said this was the first time she's voted early in person, and one factor that moved her to take that step was the coronavirus and the desire to avoid any potentially long voting lines in four weeks on Election Day. "We don't want to wait in line on Nov. 3," she said. Last week, Gill said at least 30 schools and community centers will be places where Woodbury County voters can cast in-person ballots on Election Day. Hieu Nguyen, 25, of Sioux City, said he was voting early for the second time, after doing that in 2018 as well. "Early voting is a lot better, so we don't feel rushed," Nguyen said, especially since he is among so many people who already know who they plan to vote for. Todd Tripp, of Sioux City, said he "wanted to make sure my vote counted, so I wanted to get it in there." Gill said he anticipates the majority of votes, perhaps up to 24,000, will be cast by mail in this election. Tripp said it has been problematic that President Donald Trump has alleged the possibility of fraud in mail voting, saying those comments are designed by Trump to drive down voting and increase his chances of defeating Joe Biden. "There is nothing wrong with mail-in voting," Tripp said. Love 0 Funny 0 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 NORTHAMPTON The DRI-Voyage, as travel agent Martha S. Borawski describes it, is the travel option for people who normally like a cruise but are not getting on a plane much less a cruise ship anytime in the foreseeable future due to the risk of coronavirus. Its a three-night hotel stay package you can drive to in your own car and Ive got great deals lined up with hotels and resorts in the northeast, says Borawski, president of Pioneer Valley Travel in Northampton, of the mini-vacation concept she originated in the midst of the pandemic. Shes been working at the family-owned business for 50 years. The DRI-Voyage is one option for travelers concerned about venturing out amid the pandemic, focused on destinations within two- to three-hour drives from Western Massachusetts. So, too, are deals shes worked out with RV rental companies for driving tours in the United States and, once travel restrictions are lifted, in Europe. I have a great rate for a river cruise on the Columbia and Snake rivers for May of 2021. We are encouraging people to travel to Alaska in 2021 which I truly believe will be a hot destination and there are so many wonderful deals out there, Borawski adds. She says shes also talking with groups about trips to Portugal and customers are inquiring about Alaska, saying they want something exotic without leaving the United States. Borawski adds that customers keep telling her they have postponed, not canceled their trips into 2021. I think it is going to come back gangbusters, she predicts of the travel business. But is anyone taking the deals? The trade group the U.S. Travel Association said recently that travel spending is running about 45% below last years numbers. And the airline industry is pressing Congress hard for another bailout to avoid layoffs. Whats going on with the industry is not very good, Borawski acknowledges. Shes traveled herself in recent weeks, taking one of those three-day dry-cruises to an inn in Vermont, where it was a relief to check out a bustling little village and see some new scenery for change. People want to get away, she says, but they want to do it safely. Showing people that proper precautions are being taken will build confidence. There are lots of things changing in the travel industry, including at Borawskis business. In response, shes now partnered with two other travel industry veterans. Barbara Burati, whose father started Carroll Travel in Springfield many years ago before selling it, has brought her agency, Burati Travel, with offices in Avon, Connecticut, and East Longmeadow, into the fold. Debbie Wilcox, of Cruise and Travel, in Turners Falls, who has been in the travel business for more than 36 years, is also part of the partnership. The arrangement allows the three travel agencies to combine back-office operations like computer systems, while also allowing all three businesses to keep their individual identities, Borawski explains. Hopefully this will be a really good fit, Borawski says. We all feel the same way about travel and a passion for travel. As time passes, she adds, if any of the partners decide to retire, then they can transfer clients to the other partners. COVID-19 and its disruptions have also pointed out the utility in having a travel agent, Borawski adds. People who booked online either directly or through third-party websites had trouble getting refunds this spring when coronavirus restrictions canceled trips. Some of those would-be travelers came to the travel agents in search of help. (When you book online), there is nobody you can talk to, Borawski says. Were here. Were local. Related Content: This is Naked Capitalism fundraising week. 1562 donors have already invested in our efforts to combat corruption and predatory conduct, particularly in the financial realm. Please join us and participate via our donation page, which shows how to give via check, credit card, debit card, or PayPal. Read about why were doing this fundraiser, what weve accomplished in the last year, and our current goal, more original reporting. Yves here. By e-mail, Michael added: One thing the article doesnt specifically call out, and maybe should, is that the evangelical movement in the days of abolitionism was solidly, almost radically anti-slavery and anti-racism. Those are the same people whose ideological descendants are wearing red hats. Oh, how times change, huh? By Michael Olenick, a research fellow at INSEAD whose recent articles can be read at at innowiki.org Economics and long-simmering racial issues were pounded together like the fuel of a nuclear weapon to revive serious problems in the US related to race and economics. Commentators have noted that credit and racial issues are tied together but few realize how deep those ties are. Interestingly, credit and racial justice in the US were strongly influenced by one man, Lewis Tappan. Born just before the invention of the cotton gin, Tappan lived through an enormous uptick in slavery, worked as a fervent abolitionist then innovated the modern credit bureau which continues to have an enormous impact against poor people and, especially African Americans. To say that Tappan reviled slavery is an understatement. He was a fierce, fearless, and tireless opponent of the peculiar institution as slavery proponents referred to it. Good and decent people in modern times hope they wouldve acted against slavery like Tappan did in his time. Born 1788, Tappan saw enormous change during his lifetime that left an imprint on history that ripples today. When Tappan was a baby, fellow northerner Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin. That vastly increased the profitability, size, and scope of slavery in the then-new United States. Tappan spent the first of his life as an entrepreneur, operating stores in Philadelphia and Boston. They initially thrived, building to a staggering book value of $800,000[1], then ultimately failed due to bad investments. Bankrupt at almost 40 years old, Lewis went to work at a store hed funded[2] for his brother, Arthur, trading silk in New York City in 1827. The Tappans were extremely religious Christians. Their position as merchants allowed them to meet people through all walks of life. During his early years in New York City, Lewis recruited a network of morality spies.[3] People anonymously reported brothels, gambling halls, and other places of ill repute to Tappan who would then coordinate to raid and shutter the dens of iniquity. His network had tentacles throughout New York City.[4] Influenced by a Unitarian minister, the Tappans eventually focused on slavery as the ultimate sin. Lewis and Arthur turned their full attention towards abolition. Initially, they worked with a group called the American Colonization Society to return free African Americans, including escaped slaves, to Africa. The group soon realized the vast majority of American black people were Americans who wanted to live as free people in the US rather than as African colonialists. Lewis, the more radical of the two, pivoted to advocating interracial marriage on the theory that, eventually, racially blended children would make racism irrelevant. However, that was a long-term strategy and in the short-term, the barbarous conditions of slavery required a more immediate solution. Lewis and Arthur eventually helped form the American Anti-Slavery Society and, after losing control, the American and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society. Their business was boycotted, their houses firebombed, and they were continually harassed. The brothers actively circulated anti-slavery pamphlets throughout the South and funded and supported the Underground Railroad. A great number (of people) then proceeded to the house of Lewis Tappan, his wife and children being at the time with him at Harlem. They broke open the door, smashed the blinds and windows, the looking-glasses, crockeryware, and threw the furniture into the street. The mob next lighted a fire and fed it with the beds and bedding taken from the house, read one account at the time.[5] The Tappans funded the Amistad case, where a group of kidnapped Africans forcefully took control of their slave ship after kidnapping Africans for slavery was outlawed by international treaty. While freeing themselves and taking over the ship, the Africans killed several people. With the Tappans help, the slaves prevailed in the US judicial system and were acquitted under self-defense theories. Due to their political work, the Tappans store suffered boycotts from pro-slavery merchants and their supporters. To lure customers, the brothers were forced to extend credit despite their personal distaste for debt on religious grounds. A few words with regard to the credit system that so generally prevails among men of business, Tappan wrote. The supposed gains, under this system, are very fallacious, while the net gains in the long run, under the cash system, would be much more lucrative to the individual and more beneficial to the community. Besides, it is not easy to determine what ones income or actual gain really is, when the credit system so generally prevail.[6] After an economic downturn, many customers were unable to pay their bills and Arthur, unable to pay its own creditors, found his store effectively bankrupt in 1837.[7] As Arthur rebuilt, Lewis Tappan realized some customers were more likely to repay their bills than others. That is, some were lower credit risks. However, there was no reliable way to sort customers by risk since many of the attributes Tappan deemed likely to be creditworthy involved private behavior. The current system of relying on letters from other merchants, lawyers, or ministers was prone to gamesmanship and fraud. Lewis soon realized his network of morality spies could serve a dual purpose, reporting not only on vice but also the perceived virtue of repayment ability and likelihood. Tappans morality network, which he branded reporters, would record various traits potential borrowers engaged in that might lead to a mindset where they would or wouldnt, could or couldnt, repay their debts. He quickly realized these credit reports were useful to other businesses and, in June 1841, at 53 years old, created a business selling the information, The Mercantile Agency.[8] Coming under attack from both privacy and slavery advocates, the credit reporting business initially sputtered but eventually caught on.[9] In prosperous times they will feel able to pay for the information and in bad times they feel they must have it, wrote Tappan.[10] Tappan grew his reporting business along with his abolitionist work by expanding, professionalizing and paying the network of morality spies many who were abolitionists. My business leads me to keep up an extensive correspondence throughout the free States & Territories, and especially with eminent lawyers, and the sentiments they frequently express on the subject of slavery, in an incidental way, satisfies me that anti-slavery principles are rapidly pervading the country, Tappan wrote in an 1844 letter to English abolitionist Thomas Clarkson. Soon enough, his credit reporters extended beyond New York City to all northern states. One of Tappans reporters was a young attorney in Illinois, Abraham Lincoln. Later, Presidents Grant, Cleveland, and McKinley would also work as reporters. In 1849, Tappan retired and sold the business to Benjamin Douglass, his chief clerk. In 1858, Douglass transferred it to his brother-in-law, Graham Dun, who renamed it after himself. Years later, in 1933, the firm merged with a competing firm run by John Bradstreet. Tappans firm, born in the fire of abolition, was renamed Dun & Bradstreet and remains one of the dominant credit reporting agencies to this day. A New Type of Control American slavery was enormously complex but had two defining attributes, 1) white supremacy including human chattel and 2) the economic benefit of free labor without constraints related to worker rights. Economists start every theory with all things being equal. For capitalism to work correctly the invisible hand of the market must be unbound and people allowed to freely make choices. Slavery obviously perverts these ideals: with slavery, things couldnt be more unequal. However, the consumer successor of Tappans reporting system combined with ongoing racial discrimination often has a negative impact on minorities to this day. Consider: Predominantly white cities have median credit scores about a hundred points higher than predominantly black cites. Urban Institute Internally in cities, predominantly non-white areas are far more likely to have median subprime credit scores. Urban Institute Whites are 30% more likely to own their homes than rent, a difference experts attribute largely to systemic racism inherent in credit. CNBC Whites are twice as likely to have credit-cards than African Americans. CreditCards.com & Federal Reserve Allowing credit scores in the hiring decision process substantively reduces the recommended starting salary of African Americans. OBrien, Kiviat, 2018 The credit scores of black Americans are systematically damaged. Washington Post Black people are 80% more likely than whites to live paycheck-to-paycheck and 50% more likely to say they have too much debt right now. CNMC Study Good credit scores are being proposed as a precondition towards permanent residency and US citizenship by the Trump Administration. Market Watch Quoting The Guardian, Credit reports and scores are not race-neutral. Rather, they embed existing racial inequities in our credit system and economy to the point that a persons credit information serves as a proxy for race. Poor people cannot borrow from their families. They are often uneducated about personal finance. Theyre far more likely to be lured into a debt trap of student loans, subprime loans, payday loans, and other predatory loans than children born to wealthier parents. Children of wealthy parents aim for the same colleges and universities their parents went to, or something similar, and avoid sketchy for-profit schools. Theyre taught how to make the system work for them. Family wealth leads to more financial options which lead to better education and subsequently better financial choices over a lifetime. By the time a young person understands any of this, especially a poor person doing their best to advance, theyre often saddled with tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in student loan debt that will follow them for life. Student loan debt cannot be discharged in bankruptcy. Eighteen-year-olds are considered years too young to buy liquor are old enough to take on a mountain of complex non-dischargeable loans. The economic fate of too many people especially but not solely minorities is too often determined before entering the birth canal, much like it was in Europe for the peasants the founders of the US fled from. And the misuse of the credit reporting system that Tappan created bears much of the blame. Lewis Tappan and his abolitionist reporting network would likely be upset but not surprised at the current state of affairs. He would likely be livid that the credit reporting system he invented is being used to trap and control, especially African Americans. Tappan realized later in life that fighting to free the slaves was the very least, the absolute minimum, whites could do to begin repenting for the historic catastrophe. When will the poor negro have his rights? Not, I believe, until he has a musket in one hand and a ballot in the other, he wrote after the Civil War. What he didnt realize, and surely would never approve of, is the credit bureau, an idea he created, would be one of the primary drivers of ongoing oppression, a tool to enforce a new type of post-Civil War economic slavery. Reforms Credit certainly isnt the only cause for the economic subjugation of African Americans in the US but its a prime contributor. Poor credit leads to lower homeownership, higher rent, far higher loan and insurance costs, unavailability of startup capital, systematic but legal hiring discrimination, and a myriad of other ills. The system Tappan created to fund the elimination of systematic American racism has instead become one of the bedrock enablers. The system also affects poor whites and those who lack financial education. Credit agencies argue their systems are a vital part of modern life. Without modern credit reporting, they say, there would be no availability of credit or the cost would be far higher. However, France has no private credit bureaus and no credit scoring system yet home loans, auto loans, and personal lines of credit are available at the same or lower rates as in countries that rely on credit bureaus. Credit systems are designed to control not only financial but social behavior. The government-run Chinese credit bureau lowers scores for trivial crimes like jaywalking and increases scores watching propaganda videos from the Chinese Community Party. Westerners argue those factors are frivolous to finance while simultaneously enabling the use of bill repayment history to set auto insurance rates rather than, say, driving history. Of course, some people are more likely to pay their bills than others. The problem is the credit system exerts control well beyond repayment likelihood. Credit bureaus enjoy the status quo where they have virtually no liability or responsibility for accuracy or even fairness. However, the political winds are shifting and the bureaus are unlikely to find their friends in DC empowered indefinitely. Itd be better for them to make needed reforms, now, rather than wait for more stringent reforms to be mandated, later. Credit reporting should be limited solely to money lending decisions and banned for use in employment decisions, insurance rates, or anything not directly related to repayment risk. Errors should be easy to adjust. Credit scoring algorithms should be open-sourced so the public can search for bias. Any type of redlining, whether geographical or behavioral, should be criminalized with mandatory minimum prison sentences, not just fines. Nobody benefits from inaccurate, misleading, or the misuse of credit reports. Employers and insurers using credit miss the opportunity to find high-quality customers and employees by failing to look at more meaningful data. Their reliance on credit points to a personnel problem in underwriting and their own human resources offices, not with applicants. US credit reporting came from Tappans morality police and, to a large extent, remains that way. However, the system that stemmed from abolition has been pivoted towards a modern electronic chain to bind people, especially black people, into doing the bidding of some often-unseen force. The invisible hand of the market, including credit scoring, needs direction. However, the successor businesses to Tappans credit reporting too often tilt the scale in favor of the already wealthy who happen to be overwhelmingly white. _________ [1] https://books.google.fr/books?id=d9QxAQAAMAAJ [2] https://books.google.fr/books?id=d9QxAQAAMAAJ [3] Who Made America [4] https://www.moaf.org/publications-collections/financial-history-magazine/120/_res/id=Attachments/index=0/Eds%20Perspective.pdf [5] https://books.google.fr/books?id=d9QxAQAAMAAJ [6] https://books.google.fr/books?id=d9QxAQAAMAAJ. Quoting pamphlet by Lewis Tappan Is it Right to be Rich? [7] https://www.amistadresearchcenter.org/post/2019/03/05/the-mercantile-agency-a-curious-relationship-of-credit-reporting-and-abolitionism [8] Tappan had an early business relationship with Edward E. Dunbar of Boston but after three years the partnership broke up and fell into arbitration with the arbitrators awarding the entire business to Tappan. https://books.google.fr/books?id=iY0vAAAAYAAJ [9] https://www.jstor.org/stable/3112122 [10] https://www.jstor.org/stable/3112122 Chinas crude oil imports averaged 11.52 million barrels per day (bpd) in September, up by 3.1 percent from August, but slowly returning to historical levels and starting to ease the congestion at Chinese ports, according to data from energy analytics services provider OilX. Compared to September last year, Chinese crude oil imports jumped by 24.4 percent, or by 2.26 million bpd, OilXs data showed. After growing for five consecutive months, floating storage in China fell for the first time, indicating that port congestion has started to ease, oil analysts Juan Carlos Rodriguez and Valantis Markogiannakis wrote in a report on Monday. Chinas oil imports continue to grow compared with previous years, but they are easing off the record-highs seen earlier this summer when Chinese refiners imported cheap barrels they had snapped up in April at the lowest prices in decades. In fact, the number of loadings heading to China has reached a 6- month low and is now back in line with historical levels, OilXs analysts wrote. This moderation in the pace of imports should continue to alleviate the congestion seen in North China, they added. Chinas floating storage fell for the first time in five months and is expected to continue to diminish as ports process the current backlog, according to OilX. Utilization rate at refineries is stable at some 70 percent, but independent refiners could lower crude processing throughput in the medium term due to lower refining margins and stricter mechanisms for tax collection, the analysts said. China imported record volumes of crude oil in May and June, as the oil-hungry nation attempted to benefit from the low oil prices in April. The bargain-hunting for dirt cheap oil resulted in queues at Chinese ports with tankers waiting for weeks to discharge crude that has likely been loaded three to four months ago. Yet, Chinas feast on low oil prices may now be over. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Seoul and Tokyo remain at loggerheads over historic issues, but a recent change of Japanese prime minister seems to have rung in a period of cautious rapprochement. Korea and Japan have agreed to ease entry restrictions for travelers from each other's country later this month. The two governments in recent talks agreed to ease entry restrictions for business travelers and are in the process of fine-tuning the agreement. Both sides are expected to allow a set number of business visitors and gradually increase their number. They will be exempt from a mandatory 14-day quarantine on arrival if they present a clean bill of health prior to departure. Entry restrictions for tourists will remain in place. The decision announced yesterday at evening mass. The bishop, not recognized by the government, will only accept to exercise the sacrament of reconciliation. A step to try to save the unity of the diocese, turned upside down for the implementation of the Sino-Vatican Agreement. Mindong (AsiaNews) - Msgr Vincenzo Guo Xijin, auxiliary bishop of Mindong (but not recognized by the government), has decided "to abandon all offices in the diocese and retire toa life in prayer, reports a priest of the diocese to AsiaNews. Mindong diocese is currently led by the ordinary bishop Zhan Silu (left in the photo), formerly excommunicated and reconciled by Pope Francis after the signing of the Sino-Vatican Agreement on the appointment of bishops. Msgr. Guos decision (right in the photo) was communicated to the faithful after yesterday's evening mass and with an official letter in which he defines himself as a "fool" and a "lout", unable to keep up with the times and with the style "of the Church in China and directly in our diocese. From the content of the letter it is clear that the bishop's retreat to a life of prayer is an attempt to save the unity of diocesan church under Bishop Zhan Silu. It states that Msgr Guo will celebrate mass in private not in public, so without the participation of the faithful, instead he will celebrate the sacrament of reconciliation. Increasingly it would seem that Msgr. Guo is a victim of the Sino-Vatican agreement. The Mindong diocese was to be a kind of "pilot project" for the agreements implementation. At Pope Francis request, Msgr. Guo, agreed to be demoted to auxiliary bishop to leave the seat of ordinary to Msgr. Zhan Silu, official bishop, whose excommunication was lifted by the pope again as part of the agreement. But Msgr. Guo, not having signed up to join the independent Church, was never recognized by the government. In recent months he also risked being homeless, as the government wanted to evict him from his bishopric. Although Pope Francis has urged all Catholics to reconcile, in the diocese of Mindong there are tensions between priests who swear obedience to Msgr. Zhan Silu and the Communist Party (and the "independent Church") and those who do not accept submission to the Party. In his letter, Msgr. Guo states that "the sacraments celebrated by those who sign and those who do not sign are legitimate". It is likely that his decision to withdraw from public life is born of a wish not to foster tensions between those who refer to priests who have not signed up to join the "independent Church" and those who have instead signed. Some priests are greatly pained by this decision: The bishop [Guo] exhorts all the faithful to remain steadfast in the faith. He is a true shepherd and priest: out of fidelity to Christ, he has often been imprisoned. Even the government authorities respect him. Msgr.Zhan Silu, with a license in theology from Hong Kong, was illegitimately ordained bishop in 2000, and then was installed in the official diocese of Ningde (and Mindong) in 2006, followed by very few priests. In 2018 Pope Francis lifted his excommunication and installed him as ordinary bishop of the diocese. Msgr. Zhan is the most interviewed personality in the government media. Laurence Fox has said he will be boycotting Sainsburys after it promoted Black History Month. Last week, the supermarket chain announced it would be marking Black History Month, an annual observance of black history and culture celebrated around the world, which began on 1 October. In a tweet shared with its 570,000 followers, Sainsburys said: We are proud to celebrate Black History Month together with our Black colleagues, customers and communities and we will not tolerate racism. We proudly represent and serve our diverse society and anyone who does not want to shop with an inclusive retailer is welcome to shop elsewhere. On Sunday, the actor responded to the supermarkets tweet and accused it of promoting racial segregation and discrimination. Dear @sainsburys. I wont be shopping in your supermarket ever again whilst you promote racial segregation and discrimination, Fox wrote. I sincerely hope others join me. RT. #BoycottSainsburys. Sainsburys later responded to Foxs tweet with a comment, writing: The safe spaces we created in response to the Black Lives Matter movement were online support groups that helped our black colleagues come together, share their experiences and support one another. Foxs tweet sparked a debate on Twitter with some supporting his stance while others accused him of attention seeking. I agree with loads of what you say, so this is not a criticism but I can't understand why this is promoting racial segregation, one person commented. Are companies not allowed to celebrate sections of their workforce? I may be missing something here.. someone enlighten me! Another added: They aren't promoting racial segregation though, they are telling the racists to not bother shopping there if it's a problem. But you're just attention seeking and know that already. A third person wrote: How do you get to the conclusion that Sainsbury's promoting racial segregation and discrimination? That's literally the opposite of what their statement says! Hitting back at the criticism, Fox later shared another tweet, writing: Dear blue ticker leftists. You can screech racist c*** gammon c*** massive c*** and all the c***s you like at me, but wouldnt it be better to discuss and find some common ground? Also people arent buying it anymore. Im proud of our country and all those in it. In response to the criticism, a spokesperson for the Reclaim Party - a new political party launched by Fox, told The Independent: Laurence Fox merely accepted Sainsburys Twitter invitation for those who disagree with their interpretation of racial equality, to shop elsewhere. Which he will do. "His views on why Sainsburys in common with similar corporate gesturing is wrong, divisive and on occasion hypocritical, have been clearly spelt out but it does seem a departure for big retail to be laying down moral strictures to its customers. Go woke. Go broke. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Sainsburys added: At Sainsburys we strive to be an inclusive retailer where people love to work and shop. Earlier in the year we created online support groups for black colleagues across the business. These safe spaces helped our black colleagues come together, share their experiences and support one another. We represent and serve our diverse society and are proud to be celebrating Black History Month with our colleagues and customers. A Russian bride has been beaten to death by her husband in a 'jealous rage' at their wedding party after she believed she could 'tame' the convicted murderer groom. Stepan Dolgikh, 33, has been detained on suspicion of beating wife Oksana Poludentseva, 36, to death on their wedding day in the Siberian village of Prokudskoye. The bride got to know Dolgikh while he was in prison and believed that she help to reform him, police said. Witnesses said the beating began when the groom became 'jealous' of another guest at their alcohol-fuelled wedding party in a private house. Stepan Dolgikh, 33, has been detained in Russia on suspicion of beating wife Oksana Poludentseva, 36, to death on their wedding day (the couple pictured together) Stepan Dolgikh, 33, appears in court in the Novosibirsk region of Siberia He accused his new wife of 'behaving incorrectly', it was alleged. Chief investigator Kirill Petrushin told NGS news agency: 'He began to punch and kick her outside the house.' 'He continued to attack her inside the house. 'He grabbed her by the hair, hit her, pushed her out into the street, where he also continued to strike her body and head.' When she appeared lifeless 'he dumped her into a nearby ravine'. Other guests were reportedly too scared to intervene but they called law enforcement. Dolgikh has previous convictions for murder and robbery Bride Oksana Poludentseva, 36, (left) and with groom Stepan Dolgikh, 33, (right) The groom was detained at the scene by the Russian National Guard. Dolgikh confessed to the killing, said Petrushin, senior regional detective of the Russian Investigative Committee. The suspect has been remanded in custody for two months as the murder investigation continues. 'He beat her for a long time, in front of witnesses, and struck her vital organs - in the torso and head,' he told journalists. 'He fully admitted guilt during the investigation. 'As for repentance.... I cannot comment. I personally do not believe he repented.' He said: 'In a state of alcoholic intoxication, due to jealousy, he developed a hostile attitude towards his wife. 'He was jealous of one of the guests. It seemed to her husband that she behaved incorrectly, which caused a scandal.' The man had previous convictions for murder and robbery, but Poludentseva believed she could help him mend his ways. 'The deceased woman knew about his criminal record,' said Petrushin. 'They met while he was serving a sentence in prison for previous crimes.' He added: 'She did not think that while drinking alcohol or just in a fit of anger, a person like this may go over the limit and commit a serious crime.' Karnataka has offered Bengaluru as the destination for Teslas Indian Gigafactory, and the company has already held preliminary discussions for a research and innovation unit in the city. We have offered Tesla all support to set up a research and development (R&D) centre and the manufacturing unit. Bengaluru has a favourable ecosystem for electric vehicles (EVs) and Tesla can leverage on that, Gaurav Gupta, principal secretary of Karnatakas commerce and industries department, told The Economic Times. The potential Gigafactory will manufacture Teslas electric vehicles and batteries, but talks are preliminary and is likely to be long drawn, Gupta added. We are at it and we will keep the sustained dialogue going. We have briefed them about how Bengaluru is home to promising EV startups and also component makers and the advantages we offer, he said. Bengaluru is likely a shoo-in for Tesla as its Indian unit acquired from Toyota in July, is based in the city. Besides, other EV makers such as Ather Energy, Bosch, Daimler, Mahindra Electric and Ola Mobility are also based in the area, which would guarantee required infrastructure. Tesla did not respond to questions, as per the report. Next year for sure Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 2, 2020 The news follows CEO Elon Musks tweet on October 1 where he said Teslas entry to India would be in 2021. He was responding to the self-titled 'Tesla Club India' account on Twitter, an unofficial India fan club of the manufacturer. Analysts expect Teslas India entry to be muted given that public response to EVs in the market has been lukewarm, high cost of the vehicles putting it in the very premium segment and a lack of infrastructure for users in the country. CMIC Group has rebranded as Integris Group and reorganized into a mutual insurance holding company, after having received approval by the Connecticut Insurance Department on September 17, 2020, as well as from the CMIC Group board and its membership. In conjunction with its reorganization, the company has also launched a new name, brand and website. Later this fall, the company will also be rolling out new portals for its policyholders and producer partners. These were created to provide an enhanced user experience with additional tools, resources and functionality, according to a company press release. Originally a Connecticut-based and focused company, over the last 35 years, the company has expanded throughout New England and the mid-Atlantic, providing professional liability coverage and customer services to healthcare providers and facilities within its growing footprint. Integris Group is based out of its Glastonbury, Conn., headquarters, where it has resided since the 1980s. Integris Group includes Integris Financial Services and Integris Insurance Company. A mutual holding company, Integris Group develops insurance programs, services and solutions for physicians, doctors, healthcare providers, hospitals and facilities dating back to the origins of the company in 1984, then known as CMIC Group. Source: Integris Group A desperate search has been launched after young parents and an infant vanished two weeks ago. Coree Stewart, 26, Patricia Taylor, 28, and 16-week-old baby Isaac were last seen in the northern Perth suburb of Balcatta on September 22. Police have asked for public assistance to help find the young family. Coree Stewart, 26, Patricia Taylor, 28, and 16-week-old baby Isaac were last seen in Perth's Balcatta on September 22 Mr Stewart has been described as 179cms tall with a slim to medium build, short brown hair and hazel eyes. Ms Taylor has long brown hair, is about 165cm tall and is of slim build. There is concern for the familys welfare. Police have urged anyone who sees the family to get in touch as soon as possible. WA police 131 444. According to a press release published by the British Royal Navy on October 5, 2020, the Britsh Royal Navys new Carrier Strike Group is fully operational and assembled for the first time. HMS Queen Elizabeth and her Strike Group are currently exercising alongside allied nations in the North Sea, as part of NATOs largest annual exercise, Joint Warrior. According to a press release published by the British Royal Navy on October 5, 2020, the Britsh Royal Navys new Carrier Strike Group is fully operational and assembled for the first time. HMS Queen Elizabeth and her Strike Group are currently exercising alongside allied nations in the North Sea, as part of NATOs largest annual exercise, Joint Warrior. Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link British Royal Navy HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier and her Carrier Strike Group (Picture source British Royal Navy) Nine ships, 15 fighter jets, 11 helicopters and 3,000 personnel from the UK, US and the Netherlands are now carrying out exercises in the North Sea. Under current plans, a British Royal Navy carrier strike group will typically comprise a Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier, two surface escorts, a submarine and a fleet tanker, however, the composition varies depending on the operational tasking. The strike group is the largest and most powerful European-led maritime force in almost 20 years. The Carrier Strike Group includes NATOs most sophisticated destroyers the Royal Navys Type 45s HMS Diamond and HMS Defender air-defence destroyers and US Navy Arleigh Burke-class USS The Sullivans guided missile destroyer as well as frigates HMS Northumberland and HMS Kent from the UK and the Dutch Navys frigate HNLMS Evertsen. They will not only protect the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers from enemy ships, submarines, aircraft and missiles, but are also capable of conducting a range of supporting missions, from maritime security to disaster relief. Meanwhile, two British Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships, RFA Tideforce and RFA Fort Victoria, will supply fuel, food, spares and ammunition, to enabled sustained operations from the sea without host nation support. Mr Pence will take a leading role in campaigning around the country in the final stretch before the November 3 election, aiming to keep the presidents supporters energised and deflecting criticism of his handling of a virus that has killed over 205,000 Americans. The presidents positive diagnosis on Friday has intensified scrutiny of the administrations cavalier approach to the pandemic. The spotlight on Mr Pence will be especially bright on Wednesday when he will participate in the vice presidential debate with California Senator Kamala Harris. Mr Pence will almost certainly be pressed to explain shifting accounts of the presidents health over the weekend and justify Mr Trumps decision to hold large in-person campaign rallies during a pandemic, events that often flouted public health guidelines by congregating thousands of mostly mask-less supporters. Advertisement Normally, the vice presidential debate is inconsequential. That is not the case in 2020, said Alex Conant, a Republican strategist who worked on Florida Senator Marco Rubios 2016 presidential bid. The public has so many questions about how we got here and its an opportunity for Pence to answer some of those. Mr Pence has often been called upon to smooth over fallout from Mr Trumps messy decision making and divisive policies. Since the 2016 campaign, he has served as a bridge of sorts between a brash, thrice-married former reality television star who long bragged about womanising and the more traditional branch of the Republican Party, particularly conservative evangelicals. The smooth diction and humble demeanour Mr Pence brings to the role was honed in the 1990s when he was a conservative talk-radio host in Indiana, when he referred to himself as Rush Limbaugh on decaf. His approach has not always been successful. As Indianas governor from 2013 to 2017, he was so relentlessly on-message that he sometimes struggled to contain fallout from fast-moving crises. WH Task Force met today. Working around the clock to expand Testing, PPE, Therapeutics & expect to have a Vaccine by end of 2020. Grateful for the prayers for President @realDonaldTrump, @FLOTUS & EVERY American family dealing with COVID-19. We Will Get Through This Together! Advertisement Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) October 3, 2020 That includes his handling of backlash over a 2015 law he signed that allowed business owners to deny service to gay people for religious reasons, which was later amended as a result of the uproar. The debate with Ms Harris, Joe Bidens running mate, will be a major test. The former California prosecutors political rise was fuelled by searing exchanges with political rivals during major congressional hearings. And she is certain to press the issue of the virus and Mr Trumps diagnoses when the two meet in Salt Lake City. One major uncertainty is what sort of condition Mr Trump will be in during the weeks ahead. His administration has offered rosy assessments of his health and said he could be released from Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre as early as Monday. But Mr Trumps blood oxygen level abruptly dropped twice in recent days and he was given supplemental oxygen before he was taken to hospital. His doctors continued to evade basic questions about his health on Sunday. After the debate, Mr Pence says, it is back to business as usual and the campaign has appearances planned for him, as well as Mr Trumps children and other top surrogates in an effort billed as Operation Maga (Make America Great Again). Mr Pence is scheduled to visit Arizona and Florida and will return to Indiana on Friday to vote early. Weve got a campaign to run, Mr Pence said on Saturday on a call with staff. I promise you, this president, as soon as his doctors say so, hes going to be back out there. President @realDonaldTrump doing very well at @WRBethesda and @FLOTUS doing great convalescing at home. Grateful to God and the incredible medical team caring for our friends. Keep those prayers coming America! Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) October 3, 2020 Mr Pence often evokes faith when describing his approach to public office, citing the biblical concept of servant leadership. He has been a faithful servant to Mr Trump since he was plucked from a difficult bid for reelection as governor to join the presidential ticket in 2016. An infection control nurse looks out from a Covid-19 recovery ward at Craigavon Area Hospital in Co Armagh (Niall Carson/PA) The grieving daughter of one of Northern Ireland's latest Covid-19 victims has hit out at people downplaying the effects of the deadly virus. John Gracey, an accommodation and community support worker at Simon Community, passed away on Saturday after falling ill with Covid-19. His daughter, Susie, who had previously described her dad as her hero, took to Facebook just hours after he passed away to warn others of the danger of the virus. She said: "At 4.06pm, my Dad John Gracey lost his life to coronavirus. "He fought so hard but it won in the end. Covid is real and it has robbed us of the best father, husband and granda (his favourite title). "He did everything he was supposed to but this cruel virus still took him. We are heartbroken. "He was just such a great man. A fountain of knowledge, artistic, talented, funny, intelligent and just a gentleman. "I don't know what we will do as a family without him. He was just so hands on with everything. "To anyone still doubting Covid? Please don't talk to me! I don't want to hear how it's ruining your weekends as you can't get out for a drink and a dance! It's ruined our lives!" Read More Ms Gracey's comments followed an earlier post on Thursday when she spoke of her pride in her father for his strength in fighting the virus. Admitting that prior to his illness, she had not realised how dangerous the virus is, she appealed to everyone to take the threat it poses seriously. "I'm begging you to please, please, please start believing," she said. "Covid is real and I'm utterly terrified it's going to take my dad, leave my mum a widow and my son without his best friend. "What started off as a positive result, jokes about being unclean, turned to lack of breath and unsteady on his feet. "Four weeks in hospital and only seeing him once behind glass. "Today we're told he is on life support and chances of him surviving are slim. "Please if there's any prayer you can say then please say it. If you know me, you will know that my dad is my hero. "No-one has ever a bad word to say about him and is always wanting to help others. He's given so much of his time to helping other people that now we are hoping for a miracle he pulls through. "We are not allowed to see him and if the worst happens we never will be allowed as these cruel Covid restrictions won't allow it! We need to be able to see him again." Read More Health officials have faced an increasing challenge in encouraging the public to adhere to public health guidance. Last month, health minister Robin Swann issued a stark warning to anti-vaccination and anti-mask campaigners to "put their tin foil hats back in the drawer". Robin Swann was responding to a growing number of people taking issue with the handling of the pandemic, with some claiming the death toll is inaccurate. Mr Swann said: "During this pandemic, I have repeatedly warned people not to get distracted by noise or conspiracy theories on social media or elsewhere. Keyboard warriors can sit safely at home and promote distorted agendas against vaccines and masks. I would ask them to put their tin foil hats back in the drawer, but I doubt they would listen." After a journey of self-discovery and inner peace, fate has brought both Chef Rafael Ruiz and his Finch Hutton restaurant back to Southeast Texas, this time in Beaumont. Finch Hutton kicked off its reunion last weekend with a series of sold-out preview dinners that featured 10 courses of chef-inspired dishes like porcini mushroom braised short ribs and an experimental twist on deviled eggs. The chance to eat dishes remembered fondly from Finch Huttons days on Boston Avenue in Nederland seemed to be an attractive offer; as the dinners for Thursday, Friday and Saturday sold out by the beginning of the week. But while guests may have been treated to the cuisine theyve come to know and love, Ruiz said he has come back as a very different chef and person. Cooking wasnt just a passion for the chef, Ruiz said, but an obsession to reach perfection fueled by nonstop work and long days in the kitchen week after week. That drive to keep working past the exhaustion and build his restaurant into his ideal establishment kept diners coming back to Finch Hutton, but the chef said it made him difficult to work with. I had a reputation as one of those guys that would yell and scream, he said. I was focused and determined on one thing, and that was cooking. I was obsessed to the point where it was becoming unhealthy. Ruiz saw friends and mentors in the culinary profession self-medicate to handle the stress and wear on their bodies. Through the years, he said he also saw some of those people die, either from overdoses or the strain of an incredibly unhealthy lifestyle. When his doctor finally told him in 2015 that he was headed for a similar path if he didnt quickly act, Ruiz didnt just make a career change, he went on a journey of personal discovery. Ruiz spent the next five years practicing and learning Buddhism, mostly at the A Di Da Meditation Temple in Houston. He eventually became a monk and began teaching, even occasionally hosting a class at a temple in Port Arthur. It was during this time that Ruiz said he began to face the parts of his personality that had turned his gift into an obsession, and ultimately became a stronger person by letting go of those feelings. He said he truly enjoyed his life as a monk and probably would have continued if it werent for a phone call earlier this year. I got a call from a guy in the spring who said he wanted me to create another restaurant in Beaumont, he said. I told him the only way I would do that is if it could be at The Grill, and I thought that was the end of that. But, just a few months later, he was informed that the Arfeens and their partners would be closing the doors of the Calder Avenue restaurant and the building could be available. I liked my life, but I contemplated it and eventually said why not? he said. I wanted to resurrect the Finch Hutton and make it this amazing place for people. Bubba Ainsworth, a long-time patron and friend of Ruiz, said patrons at the restaurant will feel like theyre back at the Finch Hutton they know, but there is a more relaxed air to the restaurant now. Ainsworth got to watch his friend back in his element during the preview dinner, preparing course after course with his staff and celebrating the night. He said he believes the break was a much needed reset for Ruiz and it helped him grow as a chef. Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts. The two met at a dinner for local business people Ruiz hosted at Finch Hutton in Nederland, where the chef dined with his guests and the group started to reflect on the scene in Beaumont. Later, at a Thanksgiving dinner Ruiz and Ainsworth were cooking for, Ainsworth discovered that Ruiz had trained at San Antonio restaurant La Louisiane, which used to be a restaurant Ainsworths uncle formerly owned. Since then, Ainsworth has watched his friend come full circle from chef to monk to restaurateur once again. As Ruiz continues to establish the new iteration of Finch Hutton and cements a fine dining scene for Beaumont, Ainsworth said he has great expectations for the future. Rest assured the growth of Finch Hutton will come back to benefit the patrons, he said. Ruiz still is making adjustments to the menu, but Finch Hutton will have a soft opening this weekend. After that, it will be open for regular hours from 5-10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The pace rarely slows in a busy restaurant, but Ruiz said his kitchen now has another mission besides perfection. The goal now is to teach others and turn Finch Hutton into the kind of place where young people can get their start. jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com twitter.com/jd_journalism Lawyer: French-Iranian Researcher Fariba Adelkhah Released With Ankle Bracelet 07/22/20 Source: RFE/RL Iran has temporarily released French-Iranian academic Fariba Adelkhah, who has been in jail for more than a year over security breaches, her lawyer said on October 3. "Fariba Adelkhah has come out [of prison] on leave with an electronic ankle bracelet," Said Dehghan said in a tweet, without providing other details. French-Iranian academic Fariba Adelkhah (source: Fariba Adelkhah Support Committee) Adelkhah is now with her family in Tehran, Dehghan told AFP, adding that "we hope that this temporary release will become final." Adelkhah, a prominent anthropologist and specialist in Shi'ite Islam who often traveled to Iran for research, was arrested in June 2019. She is a citizen of Iran and France, but Tehran does not recognize dual nationality. Adelkhah was sentenced on May 16 to five years in prison for "gathering and conspiring against national security." French President Emmanuel Macron said in June that Adelkhah had been "arbitrarily arrested in Iran" and called her detainment "unacceptable." Iran had rejected previous calls to release Adelkhah, saying the demands amounted to interference in Tehran's internal affairs. Adelkhah's French colleague and partner Roland Marchal, who was detained with her, was released in March in a prisoner exchange between Iran and France. Marchal was swapped for engineer Jalal Ruhollahnejad, but there had been little indication that Adelkhah would be released in a similar manner. Based on reporting by AFP and Reuters Head of the President's Office of Ukraine Andriy Yermak has said that the decision on a possible new member of the Ukrainian delegation to the Trilateral Contact Group (TCG) on resolving the situation in Donbas instead of Vitold Fokin will be made by head of the Ukrainian delegation to the TCG Leonid Kravchuk. "This decision will be made by Leonid Makarovych Kravchuk, if he deems it necessary for someone to appear in this place. But he will make this decision by himself. In any case, this issue is not on the agenda so far," he said on the air of Ukraine 24 TV channel on Saturday. Answering the question whether a parliamentarian, deputy head of the Servant of the People faction Mykola Tyshchenko can become a member of the delegation to the TCG, Yermak said: "Well, if treating this as an anecdote ... In fact, this issue was not even considered. Let's just say there are people whose image presupposes a large amount of conversations and information. I think that the photo of Mykola with Leonid Makarovych during the meeting of the TCG representatives with a group of deputies prompted this kind of conversation." Copyright 2020 Albuquerque Journal Dr. Douglas Ziedonis, a psychiatrist with a masters degree in public health, is the new leader of the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, marking just the third change in leadership at the HSC in more than 20 years. UNM President Garnett Stokes chose Ziedonis as executive vice president for the HSC and CEO of the UNM Health System after a 10-month national search for a replacement for Dr. Paul Roth, who retired over the summer after nearly 15 years as the top executive. Ziedonis will start Dec. 1. Dr. Ziedonis appointment reflects our institutional dedication to finding a leader who will deliver on UNMs c ommitment to offering excellence across all aspects of education, research and clinical care, and the HSCs mission to improve health outcomes for all New Mexicans, Stokes said in a statement. He comes to UNM with a keen appreciation for the complexities of running the states only academic medical center, including the current stressors derived from the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. Ziedonis is currently the associate vice chancellor for health sciences at the University of California San Diego. He earned his medical degree from Pennsylvania State University Medical School and his masters from Yale University. Besides his experience at UCSD, his career has included stints at UCLA, Penn State, Rutgers University and the University of Massachusetts. He has also been on Yales faculty, according to a UNM news release. Ziedonis has focused the clinical side of his career on treating addiction. He is board-certified in addiction psychiatry, as well as general psychiatry, by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is currently licensed in California and Massachusetts. He will be taking over the UNM post as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic. He said it will be important for him, as a hospital leader, to communicate with the public about the disease and the proper response to the virus. Communication is so vital, especially around all those public health measures. Creating trusting partnerships is vital. The more we can protect in one way (like wearing a mask), the more freedoms well have with minor restrictions, he said. People are going to have questions, when new medicines come out and the vaccine comes out, if we are going to have clinical trials and vaccine trials. You cant under-communicate, and you have to build trust so people could understand why it might be important to be part of a clinical trial related to a vaccine or a medicine. Ziedonis is the son of east European immigrants who lived through World War II before settling in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a blue-collar, steel mill town. His father was a minister, and Ziedonis said he became interested in medicine after watching his dad visit hospitalized patients. He was also guided by his next-door neighbor, a family doctor who gave a younger Ziedonis old medical journals and arranged for Ziedonis to observe him working as a physician. One of his plans for UNM is to expand mentorship programs. I got to see them both in action in different ways. It impressed upon me there is a biology to all of us, theres a psychology, theres a social and a spiritual side. All those dimensions, he said in an interview. At UNM, I will make sure people who are pre-med have opportunities to see what it would be like to work in these fields. Those opportunities are important for pipeline programs, that you learn about the different fields and know them more so you can be inspired. Ziedonis will oversee a $2.2 billion budget and more than 10,000 employees. Hell receive direct reports from the deans of the medical school and other health programs, the CEOs of UNM hospitals, and the leaders of UNM clinics, HSC research and the cancer center. He has signed a five-year contract with a base salary of $650,000 per year plus $85,000 in incentive pay and a car allowance, said Cinnamon Blair, a university spokeswoman. The search for the top doctor at the UNM health system was led by Provost James Holloway. Ziedonis and three other finalists interviewed for the position and attended several forums with different university groups. Change at the top level of the HSC has been a rarity. Roth had filled the role from 2005 until his retirement. Before Roth, Dr. Phil Eaton was the top doctor and Jane Heaney was the original executive vice president, a position that was established in 1994, Blair said. Stokes, who took over as UNM president in March 2018, has brought in people from outside the state to fill many key leadership positions at the university, such as provost, senior vice president for finance and administration, the vice president for enrollment management and now the executive vice president for the HSC. Dr Sean P Conley, a Pennsylvania native who received his medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2006, is a decorated navy commander who served in Afghanistan Bethesda, Maryland: When Dr Sean P Conley confessed that he had misled the public Saturday about President Donald Trumps treatment for COVID-19 to reflect the upbeat attitude of the White House, he lost credibility with many colleagues in the medical world. The briefing was a spin doctor, not a medical doctor, Dr Carlos del Rio, an infectious disease expert at Emory University in Atlanta, said in an interview on Sunday. Over a busy weekend of medical briefings, the public has been looking to Conley a navy commander and doctor of osteopathy who has been the White House physician since 2018 for reassurance about Trumps condition. Instead, experts say, Conley has delivered confusion and obfuscation. On Saturday, he ducked questions about whether Trump had been on oxygen, then revealed Sunday that indeed, the president had been on oxygen an indicator that Trumps illness may be classified as severe. On Sunday, he was similarly evasive, sidestepping questions about whether the presidents X-rays revealed any lung damage or pneumonia. Im not going to get into specifics of his care, he said. Caring for any president presents a unique set of challenges. Like all doctors, Conley is bound by the Hippocratic oath to respect his patients wishes for privacy and to keep secret that which ought not to be spoken of outside. He is also a navy officer caring for the commander-in-chief, whose orders he is obliged to follow. But all of that must be balanced against the publics right to have information about the health of the leader of the free world. And this particular leader, Trump, is well-known for not wanting to look weak. I wouldnt want to be in that position, said Dr Stephen Thomas, a retired Army doctor who is now the chief of infectious diseases at SUNY Upstate Medical University and a columnist for Forbes. I have sympathy for the guy. Think of it. He may have to tell one of the most powerful people in the world, No, youre not doing that, or Thats not a good idea. Conley is supervising a team of medical experts at Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre, including Dr Sean Dooley, a pulmonologist, as well as an outside expert, Dr Brian Garibaldi, the director of the biocontainment unit at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. To the surprise of many in medicine, one doctor not being consulted is Dr Anthony S Fauci, one of the worlds leading experts on infectious diseases. (Fauci is on the White House coronavirus task force, but he was sidelined when his statements of fact about the virus irritated the president.) I tried to put myself in his place, and I would have had a ground rule with all of the people who surround the president, said Dr William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert at Vanderbilt University. I would have said: We have a statement that we are going to put out and then I am going to be asked questions, and Im going to answer the questions straight. If you are uncomfortable with that please have your press office to the briefing. This is not Conleys first brush with controversy. In May, after the president announced that he was taking hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malaria drug that Trump was promoting without evidence as a way to prevent coronavirus infection, Conley released a letter in which he said he had concluded the potential benefit from treatment outweighed the relative risks. He later said the president had completed the treatment safely and without side effects. And in November, Conley found himself in the awkward position of explaining a highly unusual unannounced visit the president made to Walter Reed. Without disclosing details, he denied speculation that the president had chest pain or some other acute problem, adding that Trump did not undergo any specialised cardiac or neurologic evaluations. Conley, a Pennsylvania native who received his medical degree from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2006, is a decorated navy commander who served in Afghanistan. He was named the acting White House physician in March 2018 after Dr Ronny L Jackson was nominated to be the secretary of the veterans affairs. (Jackson, who withdrew from consideration amid allegations of inappropriate workplace behaviour, is now running for a House seat in Texas.) In May 2018, Trump appointed him to be the White House physician, a position created by Congress in 1928, although the White House has employed doctors at least since the late 1800s. The job involves caring for the president, the vice president and their families, and supervising the White House medical unit a group of health professionals who travel with the president and are on duty at all times to provide for his care. It is ordinarily a low-profile job. One exception was in 1981, when then-president Ronald Reagan was shot and taken to George Washington University Hospital. Dr Daniel Ruge, the White House physician at the time, drew praise for insisting that Reagan be treated by the hospitals trauma team, rather than taking charge himself. On Sunday, Conley obfuscated. When asked about the presidents X-rays and lung function, he said the tests showed some expected findings, but nothing of any major clinical concern. It was not a lie, experts said, but it was not exactly truthful either, especially given that the doctor said Trump was taking dexamethasone, a steroid that can have harmful effects on the immune system and is recommended only for coronavirus patients who are seriously ill. He didnt say the chest X-ray was normal, said Dr Ezekiel Emanuel, a bioethicist at the University of Pennsylvania. He said what is expected, and mostly we expect serious damage in the lungs from COVID. And I assume thats what they saw, since they started the dexamethasone. Dr Rajesh Gandhi, an infectious disease physician at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School who is also a member of the National Institutes of Healths COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines Panel, said that, both as a medical doctor and as a citizen, he would have liked to know what Trumps X-rays or lung imaging showed. I think the more information that can be provided the better because that helps us not speculate, he said. Among experts, there is a debate about what, precisely, Conley is obligated to tell the public. Many say that Conleys duty to protect Trumps privacy is paramount, and supersedes his responsibility to the public. Del Rio who based on Conleys statements believes Trump can be classified as having severe COVID-19 disagrees. This is the President of the United States. This is a public figure. I think the American people have a right to know, he said. Theres no patient confidentiality here. You need to say what needs to be said, but we know that the president doesnt like to look weak. Im sure the president doesnt like the name Trump next to severe disease. No matter what Conley says or does not say, his colleagues in medicine agree on one thing: If he is going to put himself in the position of answering questions about the presidents care, he has to answer truthfully and to the fullest extent possible. You cant both wear the white coat and lie, evade, obfuscate the situation, Emanuel said, because you are using the white coat to give yourself credibility. Sheryl Gay Stolberg c.2020 The New York Times Company On the downside, Rio Rancho Public Schools needs more money from the state for COVID-safety practices, but on the bright side, the graduation rates of minority students have increased in the last five years, board members learned last week. The district has been meeting the myriad changes specified by the state Public Education Department and the state Department of Health, along with a few others, said Superintendent Sue Cleveland at the two-hour virtual meeting of the RRPS Board of Education on Sept. 28. Saying she had participated in six meetings the previous week, Cleveland said, (Theres been) very little change on our part. The major conversations have been about things that need to be done all districts need financial assistance (from the state). RRPS, she said, has seen increased costs for technology and food services. Another problem facing the district with online education has been tracking attendance: There are some issues that are needed at the state level, she said. Quality air in the schools is turning out to be a challenge, with the state Public Education Department recommending MERV 13 filters, but only a few RRPS buildings having HVAC systems that can handle those filters. Most buildings are going with a minimum MERV rating of 9, OKd by PED. In light of that, MERV an acronym for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, which indicates how efficient the filtration media is ratings should be higher at the schools. The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the particles the filter captures. In a previous board meeting, Chief Operations Officer Mike Baker explained that the ventilation systems are being turned on three hours before school days and for three hours after students exit the buildings. Those introductions of fresh air, Baker said, will cost the district an additional $250,000. That amount will probably be higher, Facilities Executive Director Melanie Archibeque said on Sept. 28. We will go as high (in MERV) as we can possibly go, Cleveland said. We dont want to burn out the systems. Archibeque said when new HVAC systems are installed on six schools, probably next summer, the MERV rating will be 9 or higher. In Clevelands other opening remarks, she told the board enrollment is down by some 800 students, most at the elementary level. Despite having fewer students to transport daily, the costs remain the same she said, and, RRPS is probably short about a million dollars, which is money provided by the state for that necessity. Also, she said, another survey for the entire district will soon be released, and about the only bad news she had to report was staffers not responding to the surveillance COVID-19 testing, in which 5 percent of the districts employees are to be randomly tested each week. Also, she noted, the contact tracing has been hard to handle because the district doesnt have enough help to seek out close contacts of a student or district employee who tests positive for COVID-19. Cleveland has also urged for the state to allow high-risk students within RRPS not special education students, she said, but others having trouble working online, such as English language learners to return to classrooms for small-group study sessions. Cleveland said Los Alamos Public Schools is working on a similar resolution for at-risk students. Later in the meeting, the diversity of the district was revealed: 57.2 percent of the enrollment is Hispanic; 31.8 percent is Caucasian; 5.4 percent is Native American; 3.2 percent is Black; 1.7 percent is Asian-American; and 0.4 percent is Pacific Islander. Also noted was the fact that in RRPS community, more than 24 languages are spoken in students homes. The board had the first reading of Policy 407, which seeks to allow students to take more than two dual-enrollment courses, when they are part of a career pathway or those that lead to college or workplace readiness, pre-approved by counselors, as well as clearing up wording for transferring high school credits, late enrollment and withdrawals. Also explained to the board was the formation and work of the districts equity council, consisting of 14 members, aimed at making the district the best district it can be, said LaJuana Coleman, executive director of secondary curriculum and instruction. The council includes an RRPS student and two teachers. The equity council strives for just and fair inclusion, Coleman said, with the intentional process of acknowledging and removing obstacles (and) with access to resources, so that all may reach their potential. The next virtual board meeting is Oct. 12 at 5:30 p.m. The assertion by Donald Trump's doctors that he could be discharged from the hospital as early as Monday astonished outside infectious-disease experts, who said he remains in a dangerous period of vulnerability when some Covid-19 patients decline precipitously and require urgent intervention. During a Sunday briefing on the president's medical condition and treatment, White House physician Sean Conley and his team twice referred to planning to release Mr Trump as early as the next day "if he continues to look and feel as well as he does today". The talk of the president's release from Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre came as Mr Conley and two other physicians treating Mr Trump gave an upbeat but incomplete characterisation of his condition. Outside doctors said they were mystified by what they said was an inconsistent portrayal of the president's illness as relatively mild despite the aggressive mix of treatments he is getting. The president's medical team was at times cryptic - asked whether CT scans showed any signs of pneumonia or lung damage, Mr Conley replied: "Yeah, so we're tracking all of that. There's some expected findings, but nothing of any major clinical concern." He declined to elaborate. At another point, Sean Dooley, a pulmonary critical care doctor, said the president's "cardiac, liver and kidney function demonstrates continued normal findings, or improving findings". He did not disclose which of those had been subpar. "My impression is they are telling us everything that is of good news and limiting everything that is not perfect," said Rochelle Walensky, chief of infectious diseases at Massachusetts General Hospital. Robert Wachter, chairman of the University of California at San Francisco's department of medicine, said any patient of his with Mr Trump's symptoms and treatment who wanted to be discharged from the hospital three days after their admission would need to sign out against doctors' orders because it would be so ill-advised. "For someone sick enough to have required remdesivir and dexamethasone, I can't think of a situation in which a patient would be OK to leave on Day 3, even with the White House's medical capacity," Mr Wachter said. "Absolutely not," William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University's medical school, said of the idea of sending Mr Trump back to the White House on Monday. "I will bet dollars to doughnuts it's the president and his political aides who are talking about discharge, not his doctors," Mr Schaffner added. Medical consensus has emerged that Covid-19 patients are especially vulnerable for a period of a week to 10 days after their first symptoms. Some patients who seem relatively healthy suddenly deteriorate, either because of the virus itself or an excessive immune response that can cause damage to several organs - including the heart. A multitude of possible cardiac complications have also been associated with Covid-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus - the most prominent involves a hardening of the walls of the heart that makes it difficult to pump blood and can lead to heart failure. "People can be doing OK, but it can get a rocky very quickly," said Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins University Centre for Health Security and an infectious-disease specialist at the University of Pittsburgh. Underscoring the concerns is the fact that Mr Trump may be the first patient - he is certainly among the first - to receive an unusual combination of three strong treatments, with a handful of supplements and an over-the-counter drug sprinkled in. Young supporters hold up signs wishing Trump good health outside the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre after the president was admitted for coronavirus treatment (Getty) "He's gotten kitchen-sink therapy," said Ms Walensky, of Massachusetts General. She noted that when dexamethasone was tested in clinical trials this year, none of the patients were also given the experimental antibody cocktail Mr Trump is receiving. Several doctors expressed worry that there is no data indicating how these treatments might react with one another, especially in an overweight 74-year-old man with a mild heart condition who is in the high-risk group for severe coronavirus disease. The list of treatments the president is receiving includes a five-day regimen of the antiviral remdesivir; monoclonal antibodies, an experimental treatment still in clinical trials; and dexamethasone, a steroid found to help patients with advanced respiratory distress. Mr Trump is also taking two unproven supplements (vitamin D and zinc) and an over-the-counter drug (famotidine, the active ingredient in heart burn medication Pepcid). The president has personally touted the benefits of zinc - in combination with hydroxychloroquine - for the coronavirus, and his administration funded trials of famotidine despite allegations of conflicts of interest. "All of these are data-free zones. We just don't know," Ms Walensky said. She noted the mix of treatments - especially the use of a steroid usually reserved for coronavirus patients whose immune systems are over-functioning - is inconsistent with the characterisation by Mr Trump's physicians that he is getting better. Lewis Kaplan, a critical care doctor at the University of Pennsylvania and the Veteran's Administration, said this type of untested combination therapy is typically only applied as a desperate measure - when a patient is seriously ill and probably in the intensive care unit. On the other hand, he said, giving this cocktail to a sitting head of state as a preventive measure as a way to reduce the risk of a more severe course could be construed as "reasonable". "And we just don't know which one reflects reality," Mr Kaplan said. The use of monoclonal antibodies is extremely limited since the treatment is still in late-stage trials so patients would not typically take it in combination with remdesivir. Remdesivir, the Gilead Sciences drug authorised for emergency use in May, is more widely available, but many hospitals reserve it only for the sickest patients. Joshua Barocas, an infectious-disease specialist at the Boston University school of medicine, said the science makes sense, though he does not know of a case in which a patient received both those treatments at the same time. "The monoclonal antibodies neutralise the virus and the remdesivir stops the viral replication," he explained. Dexamethasone is recommended only in patients who are extremely ill, according to many guidelines, but a number of hospitals routinely give the drug to any patient who requires supplemental oxygen, if only for a few hours. A recent study found it tends to reduce deaths from the virus, but nearly a quarter of infected patients getting it with supplemental oxygen - as Mr Trump has - still died. Steroids in high doses and over long periods of time also can lead to serious changes in mental status that include delirium, hallucinations and confusion. Mr Barocas said that at the dose typically used for the coronavirus, this is unlikely to be an issue and White House physicians are probably monitoring the president closely. "It's not outside the range of possibilities that he could have that adverse event," Mr Barocas said. Related video: Trump supporters gather outside Walter Reed hospital in support of president Another drug the president is taking, famotidine, remains controversial. The Trump administration earlier this year granted a $21m (16.2m) emergency contract to researchers to try famotidine on ill patients despite a whistleblower complaint that it was rushed through by the Department of Health and Human Services without the necessary scientific oversight. According to an investigation by The Associated Press, internal emails show that a top Food and Drug Administration official expressed concerns that the daily injections, which are experimental, pushed safety "to the limits". "There's no evidence at this point to suggest vitamin D or zinc do anything for or against covid. And I haven't seen any good evidence about famotidine," Mr Barocas said. "I really don't want these other medications to become the next hydroxychloroquine," he added, referring to Mr Trump's touting of the anti-malarial drug without evidence of its effectiveness. The drug was subsequently found to offer no benefits to Covid-19 patients. Hydroxychloroquine is not on the list of medications his doctors said Mr Trump is taking at Walter Reed. Another treatment missing from Mr Trump's regimen is a blood thinner given as a standard practice these days to any hospitalised patient with Covid-19 to reduce the risk of clots. In the spring, many doctors were surprised to find that microclots that appear in the lungs and heart appeared to be killing some patients. Doctors speculated that the president may have declined the treatment after what happened to his younger brother, Robert, who died in August due to brain bleeds. He had been taking blood thinners. Experts acknowledged that discharge from the hospital for a sitting president would be different than for a normal person and would not necessarily indicate the same level of stability in his illness. Hospitals, they noted, typically do not discharge patients who are on IV medications, and Mr Trump is in the middle of a five-day course of remdesivir that is given intravenously. But a team of specialists could continue to monitor him at the White House and would probably have access to heart monitors, oxygen tanks and even a "crash cart", which contains materials to resuscitate a patient should he need that. The president would also have his regular fleet of helicopters and other transportation at his disposal to get him to the hospital quickly if needed. But Mr Barocas said the decision whether to discharge the president should not just be about his condition but also about the White House staff, including cooks, butlers, housekeepers and other personnel, who work in the buildings. When it comes to infectious diseases such as Covid-19, he said, "we want to make sure we have a place for someone that is not only safe for them - but safe for them to isolate so they won't infect other people." "My concern is," he said. "What are the protections for the people who will have to care for this elderly man who probably won't isolate and won't wear a mask?" The Washington Post It's the end of an era. According to multiple sources , andmagazines are being shut down by their parent company, American Media Inc.Even though I make my living via the internet, I'll forever have a soft spot for print media there's something about holding a magazine in your hands and actually turning the pages that makes it seem more real, more significant and less ephemeral than online content.I purchased my first issue ofin 1995 from a Stop & Shop grocery store, and I was instantly enamored by the irreverent attitude, the stunning imagery, and the articles that weren't just about racing. It opened my eyes to a whole new world, and it's safe to say that it altered the path of my life. It's where I first saw photos of Gunnison, Colorado - the accompanying article described a riding scene and pace of life that further cemented my decision to leave the East Coast and begin my westward migration.was also one of the first publications to showcase the birth of the freeride movement on Vancouver's North Shore, and Sterling Lorence's unforgettable images of those early days were the inspiration for multiple roadtrips to the promised land, a place of fog, wet roots, ladder bridges, and rock rolls scattered throughout the dense forest.The list of world-class photographers whose images were published in Bike is vast, as is the list of talented writers whose names were on the masthead over the years. It's sad to see such a storied publication cease to exist so suddenly best of luck to all the employees who have been furloughed, and to all of the remaining print publications still making quality analog content in a digital world. The Directorate-General for Security and Safety of the European Parliament (DG SAFE) are assisting MEP Luke Ming Flanagan with a police investigation into the unauthorised use of his Twitter account which took place from a location in Belgium. MEP Flanagan outlined that a parliamentary assistant of his, along with an appointed investigator from DG SAFE.met with the Belgian Police on Wednesday morning. The Roscommon native said, "I have now established that my Twitter account had been logged into on a third party app called Tweetcaster. This app allowed an individual to tweet from my account using an old password. "This app was used twice to access my Twitter account from Belgium on September 28. The same day that an unauthorised tweet was posted and then deleted from my account. "At the time the tweet was posted and then deleted I was in Ireland and have been since March of this year due to Covid 19 restrictions. "The police have been provided with the Belgian IP address associated with the use of my account on the Tweetcaster app on that day. "They are now working with me to establish the exact location and identity of the individual who has carried out this malicious act of vandalism on my good name." TDP President and former Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu strongly objected to the way the AP Police handled the minor girl molestation case in Rajahmundry that eventually led to the suicide attempt by her father. Terming it an yet another instance of deteriorating law and order in Andhra Pradesh, Mr Naidu said that there were continuous attacks on Dalits, tribal people, people belonging to Backward Classes (BCs), Muslims, women and journalists among others across the State. Unfortunately, the police, who are supposed to uphold rule of law, are either conniving with the ruling party or turning a blind eye to injustices occurring across the State. In a letter to DGP Gautam Sawang here, the TDP chief said that Shaik Sattar consumed poison in front of the office of the Superintendent of Police, Rajamahendravaram, as he faced threats from the accused. Sattars minor daughter was allegedly molested by someone who apparently belongs to the ruling YSRCP. The Sattar family lodged a case against the accused vide FIR No. 578/2020 registered under sections 354, 506 r/w 34 IPC, 11 r/w 12 POCSO Act, 2012. Mr. Naidu said that since the accused seems to be from the YSRCP, the police allegedly pressurised Sattar to withdraw the case. Unable to bear the torture, Shaik Sattar tried to take his own life on October 1, ironically in front of an office housing those responsible for protecting it. Sattar is currently battling for life at the Government Hospital in Kakinada. As such, Andhra Pradesh is witnessing deteriorating law and order and violations of the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution of India which are guaranteed to all citizens. The TDP chief said that there has been a consistent attack on the freedom of speech and expression as guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a). As the Leader of the Opposition, its my duty to bring such undemocratic acts to your notice for appropriate action. Today, even an iota of dissent expressed against the anti-people policies of the Government readily is leading to witch-hunts, midnight arrests, violent attacks, damages to property and threats. They are unleashing upon the dissenter a vilified character-assassination campaign. CBN Lr to DGP_05.10 Also Read: Hathras politics: Congress, DMK to hold protests across country, Yogi Adityanath writes to centre recommending CBI probe Also Read: Kheti Bachao Yatra: Wont let them destroy farmers, says Rahul Gandhi Mr. Naidu deplored that the current functioning of the police in the State is unprecedented in the history of any State. The Andhra Pradesh Police has now earned a dubious distinction of topping the country in the number of cases registered against its own personnel. It is as per the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). Out of 4,068 cases registered against police personnel across India, 1,681 cases (41%) were registered in Andhra Pradesh alone. These numbers speak for themselves and reflect the functioning of the police in todays Andhra Pradesh. Mr. Naidu said that in another incident, the car of Kommareddy Pattabhi, an Official Spokesperson of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) was attacked and damaged on the night of October 3. Even though there is a police picket close by, the culprits are still at large. The act of damaging Pattabhis car is a clear attempt at intimidating him and stopping him from raising his voice against the anti-people policies of YSRCP-led Government. This is not the only case and there has been a series of attacks against TDP leaders who have raised their voice against the anti-people policies of the YSRCP-led Government. The TDP chief termed it as sad that the acts of head tonsuring to humiliate fellow human beings are continuing unabated in the State. Simultaneously, there are attacks on places of worship with seemingly a sinister design. In this backdrop, the YSRCP-led Government, instead of protecting the people, is busy demolishing buildings belonging to dissenters in the dark hours. These incidents have eroded peoples faith in the police. Therefore, the DGP should take steps to restore the law and order situation in the State by allowing the police to discharge their duties impartially and fearlessly. It is crucial to arrest the soaring rate of crimes and to safeguard the fundamental rights of the people. The people of Andhra Pradesh must be assured of an environment free of violence and fear. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here The fiancee of the late Emmanuel Apraku, popularly known as Ray Styles, Felicia Omari, has earned massive applause on social media for being a loyal lover from the time they met till his death. Our manifesto: This is what YEN.com.gh believes in Install our latest app for Android and read the best news about Ghana The death of Pencil Celebrities artist, Ray Styles, sent shocks to the whole of Ghana. Ray died in India, at the Apollo Hospital in New Delhi, where he has been flown to for a liver and kidney surgery. Throughout his plight, the fiancee Felicia Omari, stood by him till he died. Many people have admired her loyalty to the man whom death snatched away from her. YEN.com.gh brings you five beautiful photos of the loyal girlfriend whose traits everyone should have. A collage of Felicia Omari and the late Ray Styles of Pencil Celebrities. Photo credit: Felicia Omari. Source: Facebook 1. Felicia smiles brightly in this photo displaying her beautiful set of teeth: 2. It appears Felicia, like her name means happiness, really loves to smile: 3. She looks beautiful here too with her black and orange attire: 4. Once again she smiled brightly: 5. The way she looked at Ray in this photo shows the love was truly deep: Meanwhile, Felicia is wellness as she serves as the Sales and Marketing Manager at Rima TheraTouch Ghana with branches in Accra and Kumasi. She also attended the University of Ghana, according to her profile on her Facebook page. Felicia had broken the hearts of Ghanaians when she spoke on her boyfriends death detailing the pain and suffering he had to endure before finally yielding to death. In her message, Felicia indicated that she looked forward to a much happier times with Ray, little did she know that death would not make that possible. Even in death, she promised that Ray Styles is going to remain in her heart forever till they meet again. YEN.com.gh also published a video highlighting the good and bad times the young lovers shared together. The video included when they happily went swimming together, when they went shopping, when they attended events together, and also when they cried together over Rays ailment. The video plainly shows how much Felicia loved Ray Styles and was with him through thick and thin. In yet another report, we published Ray Styles' final words before his last breath, proving that he was desperate to overcome his health condition and live again. However, death did not make this happen. We also published the last video he shared with Ghanaians in which Ray Style struggled to speak and ran out of breath. "Life has been better for me since I exited the Shatta Movement Camp" Addi Self | #Yencomgh Have national and human interest issues to discuss? Know someone who is extremely talented and needs recognition? Your stories and photos are always welcome. Get interactive via our Facebook page. Source: YEN.com.gh The social circle is gone, just in time for Thanksgiving. With another 615 cases of COVID-19, Ontarios rapid pace of infections has spelled an end to the concept in which residents were allowed to have a group of 10 people including members of their own household for close contact including hugs and without precautions. Right now weve got a wave to flatten, chief medical officer Dr. David Williams told a news conference Monday, where he urged people not to have company for a turkey dinner this weekend. Given the current picture, were saying stick to your household, added associate chief medical officer Dr. Barbara Yaffe. The social circle at this point is not relevant. The new guidance drew swift criticism on social media, with Ontarians questioning why the province says its safe to sit at a restaurant table with six other people but not safe to have a few guests for dinner. The medical officers and Premier Doug Ford had been signalling the change for over a week, asking people to limit their close contacts, wear masks or physically distance with others, and imposing new restrictions such as shorter hours for bars and restaurants. Social circles were allowed in mid-June amid warnings that cheating on them was a no-no. Positive cases of COVID-19 are now yielding dozens and in some cases, hundreds of close contacts when the number shouldnt be bigger than 10, Williams said, a clear violation of the social circle spirit that has fuelled the surge in cases since the end of August amid the return to school. People became fairly liberal on their application of the social circle and having many circles, Williams noted. The 615 new cases reported Monday marked the eighth straight day with more than 500 new infections and a level that is consistently higher than the first wave peak of the virus in late April. It was an 8.7 per cent increase from the 566 cases revealed by the Ministry of Health the previous day as labs across the province continued to process a backlog of nasal swab samples, providing results on another 38,196 and leaving more than 46,000 people awaiting results. Assessment centres were closed to walk-ins on Sunday. They will resume full operations Tuesday on an appointments-only basis, to allow labs to work away at the thousands of tests that piled up. The snags left Fords government under fire again Monday after Toronto Public Health said the city has been so swamped with new cases that it is suspending contact tracing except for outbreaks, leaving individuals who test positive for COVID-19 to alert their own contacts about the need to self-isolate or get tested. They simply dont have the resources to keep up, NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said in the legislatures question period, accusing the Progressive Conservatives of scrambling to catch up instead of getting out ahead. There will now be thousands more people awaiting tests because of the two-day pause in testing, she added, calling the situation chaos. Websites for bookings show appointments were filling up rapidly at some centres. Health Minister Christine Elliott said the province is providing an extra 200 contact tracing staff for Toronto and maintained we are ready for surges. She promised labs would have the capacity to process 50,000 tests daily in the next few weeks, but amended that estimate minutes later to the next week or so. In September, she had predicted that level would be reached in early October. Toronto had 289 new cases, almost half the daily total, and the city now has 2,271 active cases who tested positive in the last 14 days. Peel Region had 88, Ottawa had 81 and York Region had 47 as the virus remained centred in the GTA and the nations capital. Elliotts ministry reported five new COVID-19 deaths, bringing the total across the province to 2,980 since last winter. There were 176 Ontarians in hospital for the virus, up from 58 on Sept. 5, with 43 requiring intensive care almost triple the level of a month ago and 26 on ventilators. But these numbers came with an asterisk from the ministry because 35 hospitals across the province did not provide their most recent patient counts over the weekend. On the weekend, the Ontario Hospital Association warned hospitals in Toronto and Peel Region are already operating above 90 per cent capacity, with gridlock in some emergency departments. Association president Anthony Dale called for more stringent restrictions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in addition to new limits on crowds and hours of service for bars and restaurants. Ford said he cant bring in more widespread restrictions without data. I have to see the evidence before I take someones livelihood away from them, he told reporters, adding the Ministry of Labour has been asked to ramp up inspections of restaurants and bars that may be in violation. There were 56 new cases of COVID-19 in schools, raising the total to 449 in the last 14 days. Since Friday, another 17 schools have reported cases, bringing that tally to 334 or just under seven per cent of all schools in the province. Three schools remain closed. Alyssa Milano said she's brokenhearted Sunday after her best friends uncle died of coronavirus, then criticized President Donald Trump for subjecting Secret Service agents to potential infection amid a ride around the medical facility he's staying at. 'My best friends uncle just passed away from covid 19,' the actress-activist, 47, tweeted, receiving a number of sympathetic replies amid the bad news. Media personality Dr. Dena Grayson wrote, 'OMG....this is so sad. Much love to your best friend and family,' while Cheri Jacobus wrote, 'So sad. We don't know how many more...' The latest: Alyssa Milano, 47, said she's brokenhearted Sunday after her best friends uncle died of coronavirus, then criticized President Donald Trump for subjecting Secret Service agents to potential infection amid a ride around the medical facility he's staying at Nancy Sinatra wrote, 'I'm so sorry' to the alum of shows including Who's the Boss?, Melrose Place and Charmed. Milano, who has recovered from a previous bout of COVID-19, had fierce criticism of Trump (who is currently battling the virus) after he took a ride around Walter Reed Hospital in a black SUV to greet to his supporters Sunday. Milano quoted a tweet from Walter Reed attending physician Dr. James P. Phillips, MD, illustrating the medical risks for Secret Service agents sharing close quarters with the president while he is trying to stave off the virus. 'That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack,' the doctor said. 'The risk of COVID19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play.' Milano, who has recovered from a previous bout of COVID-19, had fierce criticism of Trump (who is currently battling the virus) after he took a ride around Walter Reed Hospital in a black SUV to greet to his supporters The actress-activist was upset about Trump's actions on the autumn day Milano made clear she was astounded by president's willingness to put the health of others in jeopardy for the ride. 'I havent said an ill word about him since I heard about his diagnosis. But what the f*** is he doing?' she wrote. 'Is he trying to kill people? Hes locked in a sealed SUV with members of secret service. No one told him this was a dangerous idea? A bad idea? A selfish idea?' Phillips, who also serves as Chief of Disaster Medicine at George Washington University Emergency Medicine, said that all occupants of the SUV will need to sequester for at least two weeks after riding in the vehicle with the president, (who revealed he and First Lady Melania Trump had been diagnosed last Thursday). Phillips said that 'every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary Presidential drive-by just now has to be quarantined for 14 days. 'They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity.' Controversy: Trump was criticized for his drive around the hospital he's being treated in Using her platform: Milano took to Instagram with a number of posts promoting voting and the Joe Biden-Kamala Harris ticket opposing Trump Judd Deere, a spokesman for the White House, said to USA TODAY that 'appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the President and all those supporting it, including PPE;' and that 'the movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do.' Trump earlier Sunday said in a video clip on Twitter that he has a new insight into the coronavirus after his diagnosis. 'It's been a very interesting journey, I learned a lot about COVID,' he said. 'I learned it by really going to school. This is the real school. This isn't the let's-read-the-book school, and I get it, and I understand it.' Milano, who battled COVID-19 beginning in March, said last month that she continues to suffer from symptoms, including hair loss, shortness of breath and heart palpitations. 'It doesn't feel like you're only physically sick,' she told Yahoo. It feels like there's hallucinations because of fevers, there's weird dreams. I think it's because the brain is affected. That's why people lose their sense of smell.' She called coronavirus 'a really rough, rough illness.' Simon G. Caffyn has been the CEO of Caffyns plc (LON:CFYN) since 1998, and this article will examine the executive's compensation with respect to the overall performance of the company. This analysis will also evaluate the appropriateness of CEO compensation when taking into account the earnings and shareholder returns of the company. Check out our latest analysis for Caffyns Comparing Caffyns plc's CEO Compensation With the industry At the time of writing, our data shows that Caffyns plc has a market capitalization of UK7.3m, and reported total annual CEO compensation of UK319k for the year to March 2020. Notably, that's a decrease of 12% over the year before. In particular, the salary of UK290.0k, makes up a huge portion of the total compensation being paid to the CEO. On comparing similar-sized companies in the industry with market capitalizations below UK155m, we found that the median total CEO compensation was UK368k. So it looks like Caffyns compensates Simon G. Caffyn in line with the median for the industry. Moreover, Simon G. Caffyn also holds UK208k worth of Caffyns stock directly under their own name. Component 2020 2019 Proportion (2020) Salary UK290k UK284k 91% Other UK29k UK80k 9% Total Compensation UK319k UK364k 100% On an industry level, around 70% of total compensation represents salary and 30% is other remuneration. Caffyns pays out 91% of remuneration in the form of a salary, significantly higher than the industry average. If salary is the major component in total compensation, it suggests that the CEO receives a higher fixed proportion of the total compensation, regardless of performance. A Look at Caffyns plc's Growth Numbers Over the last three years, Caffyns plc has shrunk its earnings per share by 93% per year. In the last year, its revenue is down 5.4%. Few shareholders would be pleased to read that EPS have declined. And the fact that revenue is down year on year arguably paints an ugly picture. It's hard to argue the company is firing on all cylinders, so shareholders might be averse to high CEO remuneration. While we don't have analyst forecasts for the company, shareholders might want to examine this detailed historical graph of earnings, revenue and cash flow. Story continues Has Caffyns plc Been A Good Investment? Since shareholders would have lost about 33% over three years, some Caffyns plc investors would surely be feeling negative emotions. So shareholders would probably want the company to be lessto generous with CEO compensation. To Conclude... As we touched on above, Caffyns plc is currently paying a compensation that's close to the median pay for CEOs of companies belonging to the same industry and with similar market capitalizations. On the other hand, EPS growth and total shareholder return have been negative for the last three years. It's tough to call out the compensation as inappropriate, but shareholders might not favor a raise before company performance improves. CEO compensation can have a massive impact on performance, but it's just one element. That's why we did some digging and identified 3 warning signs for Caffyns that investors should think about before committing capital to this stock. Important note: Caffyns is an exciting stock, but we understand investors may be looking for an unencumbered balance sheet and blockbuster returns. You might find something better in this list of interesting companies with high ROE and low debt. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com. The Keyport man whose phone number authorities said was found in the pocket of the man who committed a mass shooting in Jersey City last year is set to plead guilty to a crime unrelated to the deadly attack, according to court documents. Ahmed A-Hadys attorney, David Jay Glassman, wrote in a court filing last week that his client is set to plead guilty to one count of being in possession of a weapon by a convicted felon on Oct. 7. A spokesman for the U.S. Attorneys Office confirmed a plea hearing is scheduled for Wednesday. Federal authorities charged A-Hady shortly after they found his phone number and the address to a Keyport pawn shop were written on a note in the pocket of David Anderson, who along with his partner, Francine Graham, killed a Jersey City police detective and three people inside a kosher grocery store in last December. Authorities subsequently searched the pawn shop and the apartment above the store where A-Hady lived and recovered 12 firearms, including three AR-15 style firearms. Three of the weapons were registered to A-Hady, who cannot possess them as a convicted felon. A-Hady was convicted for attempting to obtain a controlled dangerous substance or analog by fraud in New Jersey in 2012. Besides the note in Andersons pocket, prosecutors did not produce evidence at multiple bail detention hearings that in any way linked A-Hady to the mass shooting in Jersey City, or that he had even communicated with the two shooters. After initially being denied bail, U.S. District Judge Esther Salas released A-Hady on a $300,000 secured bond a number of strict bail conditions in January, which he has abided by and have been loosened in recent months, according to court documents. The charge of possession of a weapon by a convicted felon carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. A sentencing date has not been scheduled. Glassman, A-Hadys attorney, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday. The attorney asked a federal judge in the court filing last week to modify A-Hadys bail conditions after his planned guilty plea on Wednesday. The attorney requested his client be taken off home confinement and placed on a curfew, be able to work out once a day at a local gym, return to work at one of the familys pawn shops in South Amboy and allow him to access the internet for purposes of interacting with his attorneys and courts. The letter says the U.S. Attorneys Office opposes any modifications to the present conditions. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Joe Atmonavage may be reached at jatmonavage@njadvancemedia.com. Brad Parscale has reunited with his wife just a week after she told cops the former Trump campaign chief had beaten her and threatened to shoot himself in a booze-fueled meltdown, DailyMail.com can exclusively reveal. A judge slapped Parscale with a risk protection order taking away his 11 guns after Candice Parscale told officers her hard-drinking hubby had caused cuts and bruises to her face and arms prior to the September 27 siege at their Fort Lauderdale, Florida home. But the troubled couple, who have been married for the past eight years, put on a united front this weekend as they emerged from hiding to run errands together and visit friends. The pair appeared downcast and tense in photos taken exclusively by DailyMail.com, barely talking or looking at one another as Parscale, who was Trumps 2020 reelection chief until his abrupt July demotion, remained glued to his cell phone. But a source revealed: They have agreed an uneasy truce for the time being. Candice was badly shaken up by the whole incident but she feels a lot safer without the guns in the house. She has told Brad he has to curb his drinking and get professional help for his problems. Their issues are far from resolved but she is standing by her man, at least for now. Brad Parscale has reunited with his wife Candice just a week after she told cops the former Trump campaign chief had beaten her and threatened to shoot himself in a booze-fueled meltdown, DailyMail.com can exclusively reveal The pair appeared downcast and tense in photos taken exclusively by DailyMail.com, barely talking or looking at one another as Parscale, who was Trumps 2020 reelection chief until his abrupt July demotion, remained glued to his cell phone A judge slapped Parscale with a risk protection order taking away his 11 guns after Candice Parscale told officers her hard-drinking hubby had caused cuts and bruises to her face and arms prior to the September 27 siege at their Fort Lauderdale, Florida home The Parscales had spent much of the past week holed up at their $2.4million home, guarded by hired security and having all their meals dropped off at the front door. The plush waterfront property was the scene of an armed police siege seven days earlier after curvaceous Candice, 41, ran screaming into the street in just a skimpy bikini. She told a passerby she heard a loud boom after her 44-year-old husband began ranting and raving and cocked a revolver. Parscale emerged unharmed two hours later, shirtless and swigging a beer, and was tacked to the floor by a SWAT officer before being committed to a mental health unit under Floridas Baker Act, where he remained until Wednesday. In coordinated statements issued later that day Parscale said he was stepping away from his digital strategist role with the Trump campaign due to overwhelming stress. Candice denied that her 6ft 7in partner was a domestic abuser, despite telling officers days earlier that he had struck her during a previous fight. The statements I made on Sunday have been misconstrued, let it be clear my husband was not violent towards me that day or any day prior, she told Politico. Candices about-turn has not deterred officers from the Fort Lauderdale Investigations Bureau, however, who are continuing to probe the circumstances around Parscales meltdown. Agents visited the Parscales property last Thursday and said Candice was fully cooperating with their inquiry, however they have not revealed exactly what is being investigated, nor the extent of her cooperation. What is available to release and most important is, Mr. Parscale is being fully cooperative with the Fort Lauderdale Police Department, said a spokeswoman. The bureau investigates everything from domestic abuse to economic crime. Candice denied that her 6ft 7in partner was a domestic abuser, despite telling officers days earlier that he had struck her during a previous fight In coordinated statements issued later that day Parscale said he was stepping away from his digital strategist role with the Trump campaign due to overwhelming stress The troubled couple, who have been married for the past eight years, put on a united front this weekend as they emerged from hiding to run errands together and visit friends The report referenced several of the allegations Candice tried to play down, stating: While Officer [Timothy] Skaggs was speaking with Mrs. Parscale he observed several bruises on both her arms' But a source revealed: They have agreed an uneasy truce for the time being. Candice was badly shaken up by the whole incident but she feels a lot safer without the guns in the house' The insider added: 'She has told Brad he has to curb his drinking and get professional help for his problems. Their issues are far from resolved but she is standing by her man, at least for now' It was widely reported in July that Parscale was demoted because a much-trumpeted rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma drew a dismal crowd and left the President fuming. However DailyMail.com revealed that Parscale was also subject to an internal audit investigating claims that as much as $40 million went missing from Trumps 2020 re-election campaign. The Presidents deputy press secretary Ken Farnaso denied the story, saying: There is no investigation, no audit, and there never was. But Business Insider reported similarly that Parscales spending at the campaign was subject to an internal audit into an estimated $10 million worth of wasted spending. The outlet further reported that Parscale told fellow 2020 staffers and friends that he was under Federal investigation, though it remains unclear whether any such inquiry exists as officials at several law enforcement agencies declined comment. Parscale is yet to face any charges over the siege however a Broward County judge gave police permission to seize his cache of 11 weapons, including seven handguns, two rifles and two shotguns. Bradley James Parscale poses a significant danger of causing personal injury to himself or others by having a firearm or any ammunition in his custody, the filing warned. The president announced in July he was replacing Parscale with longtime political aide Bill Stepien. Well-placed sources told DailyMail.com Parscale is under investigation for the theft of campaign funds Parscale had overseen the disastrous rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma (pictured), which started with a claim a million wanted to attend. But despite his bragging, the turn-out was much lower than expected It also referenced several of the allegations Candice tried to play down, stating: While Officer [Timothy] Skaggs was speaking with Mrs. Parscale he observed several bruises on both her arms. Mrs. Parscale explained that she obtained the bruises during a physical altercation with Mr. Parscale a few days earlier, which was not reported to the police. It should also be noted that Detective Steven Smith also observed on Mrs. Parscale large sized contusions on her arms, cheek and forehead. 'Detective Smith asked Mrs. Parscale how she received the injuries. Mrs. Parscale stated that Mr. Parscale strikes her. Parscale was a web designer with no interest in politics when he first received an email from the Trump Organization in 2011 asking him to pitch a design for a website hawking a real estate scheme. More projects followed and in 2015 Parscale received another email telling him Trump was thinking about running for president and needed a campaign website in two days. 'So I wrote back and said, Yeah, I'll do it for $1,500,'' Parscale told 60 Minutes in 2017. By the end of the election season, Parscale had seen more than $94 million in campaign contributions flow through one of his companies that engineered Trump's controversial online election marketing. By then, Parscale, considered particularly close to the Presidents son-in-law Jared Kushner, was one of a handful of people allowed to tweet on Trump's behalf. Candices about-turn has not deterred officers from the Fort Lauderdale Investigations Bureau, however, who are continuing to probe the circumstances around Parscales meltdown The Parscales had spent much of the past week holed up at their $2.4million home, guarded by hired security and having all their meals dropped off at the front door Parscale and his wife own three swish Fort Lauderdale condos, worth a combined $5 million, and have at least $300,000 worth of cars, including a 2017 Ferrari, a Range Rover and a BMW X6 Campaign records show Parscale was making $15,000 a month as Trump's electioneering guru. In January 2019, the day of his 43rd birthday, Parscale bought this $2.4 million canal-front mansion in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Broward County real estate records show In the wake of the 2016 election, Parscale, a father-of-one, sold Giles-Parscale, his original digital web company, to CloudCommerce for $10 million, including $9million in stocks. CNN reported last August that another company owned by Parscale, Red State Data and Digital, received more than $900,000 from America First Action, the President's flagship political action committee. Despite rules barring Super PACs from coordinating with the campaign he insisted it was a perfectly legal and appropriate arrangement with zero chance for coordination. Parscale and his wife own three swish Fort Lauderdale condos, worth a combined $5 million, and have at least $300,000 worth of cars, including a 2017 Ferrari, a Range Rover and a BMW X6. Public records suggest flash Parscale has owned as many as eight boats. Speaking to DailyMail.com in August 2019, he said he was not in the slightest bit apologetic about his wealth. 'I make no secret about the fact that working for the Trump family made me a wealthy man well before I ever became President Trump's campaign manager,' Parscale said. 'The President is an excellent businessman and being associated with him for years has been extremely beneficial to my family.' US policy toward Iran could take a turn for the worse from the perspective of Israel's government and Washingtons Gulf allies if Joe Biden is elected president in November, US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman said on Sunday, in the latest example of a sitting Trump administration official vouching for the current presidents policies ahead of his reelection bid. Joe Biden was part of the Obama administration, which negotiated and implemented the Iran deal, something that President [Donald] Trump and I share his view thinks was the worst international deal the United States has ever entered into, Friedman said in an interview with the United Arab Emirates al-Ain news site. It created a pathway for Iran to gain a nuclear weapon. It did nothing to restrain Iran from its malign activity, whether supporting terrorists throughout Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, Friedman said. It did nothing to restrain their building of ballistic missiles. Friedman went on, If we continue on this path, we think Iran will ultimately have no choice but to end its malign activity. Id hate to think that a new administration would undermine that, but regrettably, if Biden wins, I think they might. Why it matters: Friedman who previously advised the 2016 Trump campaign and legally represented Trump in his bankruptcy battles over his Atlantic City casinos is the latest administration official treading on longstanding norms by promoting the presidents policies ahead of the November election. Last week, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke to a conservative pro-life organization in the key swing state of Florida, touting the administrations record on immigration, North Korea, the Islamic State and assassinating Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani as examples of the administration respecting life. During a visit to Israel last month, Pompeo addressed the Republican National Convention back in the United States moves that raised concerns about potential violations of the 1939 Hatch Act, which bars officials in the executive branch from engaging in certain political activities. Whats next: The Biden campaign has said it could renegotiate the 2015 deal with Iran, with additional provisions to inhibit Tehran's ballistic missile program. The position has raised concerns in Israel that a Biden administration may not be tough enough on Irans ambitions in the region. Biden has called the Trump administrations Iran policy a failure, pointing out its inability to rally even the United States' closest allies to reimpose the UN arms embargo on Iran, despite evidence of Tehrans exportation of ballistic missile and drone technology to conflict zones in the region. Earlier this year, Iran successfully launched a satellite into space. US officials say Irans space program could be a front for long-range ballistic missile research. Last month, an anonymous senior US official said Iran could obtain enough fissile material to build a nuclear weapon by the end of the year and that Irans government was working with North Korea on long-range weapons. Know more: Ben Caspit lays out Israeli officials concerns and hopes ahead of the election as speculation grows that Iran may be waiting out the election to reapproach the negotiation table. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 22:31:10|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close ANKARA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Turkish security forces killed three members of the Syrian Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) in northern Syria, the Turkish defense ministry said on Monday. "Three YPG/PKK terrorists, who opened harassing fire in the Operation Olive Branch zone to disrupt peace and safety, have been neutralized by our heroic commandos," the ministry said in a statement. Turkish authorities often use the term "neutralized" in their statements to imply the "terrorists" in question surrendered or were killed or captured. Turkey sees the YPG group as the Syrian branch of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). The Turkish army launched Operation Euphrates Shield in 2016, Operation Olive Branch in 2018, Operation Peace Spring in 2019, and Operation Spring Shield in 2020 in northern Syria in order to create a YPG-free zone along its border within the neighboring country. The PKK, listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the EU, has been rebelling against the Turkish government for over 30 years, which has claimed the lives of more than 40,000 people. Enditem (Newser) Hundreds of movie theaters are closing across the US and UK after the next James Bond movie release was postponed, USA Today reports. The movie chain Cineworld said Monday that it's closing 536 Regal Cinemas in the US and 127 Cineworld and Picturehouse theaters in Britain as of Thursday, affecting 45,000 employees. It was "not a decision we made lightly," said Cineworld CEO Mooky Greidinger, who added that they did "everything in our power to support a safe and sustainable reopening in the US." But with the movie business limping along, and the tentpole Bond film No Time to Die delayed until April, the financial prognosis was grim. story continues below Marvel's Black Widow and Steven Spielberg's West Side Story were also moved to 2021, leaving theaters to rely on the animated comedy Soul (Nov. 20), sci-fi flick Dune (Dec 18), and action-hero Wonder Woman 1984 (Dec. 25). Meanwhile, Cineworld was already reporting low numbers and an $8.2 billion debt in June as it urged governments not to strengthen social-gathering restrictions that would hurt its bottom linewhile of course making people safer, per Deadline. But it's not just about Cineworld: A-listers including Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, Sofia Coppola, and Jordan Peele last week urged Congress to fund failing movie theaters. "Absent a solution designed for their circumstances, theaters may not survive the impact of the pandemic," they wrote. (Read more movie theaters stories.) For the last few days, Americans have been shocked and concerned about the presidents hospitalization due to COVID-19. The reactions have been varied, and many have been decidedly theological. As Kate Shellnutt reported recently for CT, Several pastors and ministry leaders encouraged Americans that this was a time to pray for the president and the country regardless of their political stances. For some leaders, that invitation might come easily. But for others of us, prayerful action comes in the context of a more conflicted view of the current administration. How exactly do we respond to news of the presidents illness? Seen from one angle, the answer is straight forward. We pray. In my Anglican church, we intercede for our leaders every Sunday with some version of the following: We pray that you will lead the nations of this world in the way of righteousness; and so guide and direct our leaders, especially the President of the United States, Donald Trump, that your people may enjoy the blessings of freedom and peace. Grant that your leaders may impartially administer justice, uphold integrity and truth, restrain wickedness and vice, and protect true religion and virtue. At the center of this prayer is the idea that all governments have a solemn responsibility to work on the side of truth, justice, and integrity. They are supposed to inspire virtue and limit the damage of vice. The prayer pertains not only to them as persons but to their powerful influence over the lives of so many. This year, especially, church leaders have had much to say about the culture and ethos of this country and how its shaped by governors, local officials, and especially the president. Christian intercession, then, is not about blind allegiance. It is a recognition that the wellbeing of many often rides on the decisions of a few. The scope of that influence is precisely why I have prayed for Trump, often daily, throughout the entirety of his presidency. I have disagreed strongly with some of his policies and actions . But when I disagree, I do not pray less; I pray more. As David French writes, Christians of all political persuasions should humbly (and with full knowledge of our own frailty) seek true repentance from men and women in power. Their transformation benefits us all. For me, then, the presidents bout of sickness will add further content to my prayers, but it will not change my fundamental practices. While Christians should be united in praying for our leaders, our Christian responsibility to the state extends further. The same Bible that calls upon us to pray for our leaders also calls upon them to rule justly. The Hebrew Scriptures contain an important story about the prophet Daniel and Nebuchadnezzar, the Babylonian king. In this story, Daniel warns Nebuchadnezzar that he will lose his kingdom for a time. But Daniel believes there is still an opportunity, if the king humbles himself and shows concern for the poor: Therefore, Your Majesty, be pleased to accept my advice: Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed. It may be that then your prosperity will continue. (Dan. 4:27) Although Daniel and the king had different religious views, the prophet still expected this foreign ruler to care for the oppressed. Alongside Daniel, leaders of the early church also called out injustice. It follows, then, that all politicians, regardless of their religious views, have the same moral obligations: to care for the oppressed and maintain the kind of order that allows for human flourishing. It also follows that our Christian responsibility as citizens is not only to pray for leaders when theyre sick. It includes standing against injustice and for peace and stability. Those two callings are not in competition. Article continues below Furthermore, we believe that all life is sacredfrom the president in the hospital to the baby growing in the womb to the person facing police arrest for unjust reasons. In the other words: The same faith that demands we respect the sanctity of black life lost to unjust violence requires us to respect the sanctity of the life of the president, even when we have sharp disagreements. Of course, some will call the presidents illness a form of divine retribution. But that remains very dangerous territory for the Christian. We cannot always draw a straight line from a particular form of suffering to its cause. Nonetheless, we do believe that suffering often has the ability to teach us something about ourselves, God, and the world. The focus on Trumps illness gives us a chance to gain further empathy for the hundreds of thousands who have suffered and died from this disease. Hopefully, the next few weeks will help us recommit to the most basic form of neighborly lovenamely, attending to the health of the most vulnerable. We show this love by engaging in the monotonous and often thankless work of vigilance. We heed the advice of medical and scientific experts in order to hinder the spread of the virus. We love in word and in deed. And we pray for those at risk. We pray especially for those we love and like. But were doubly called to pray for our enemies (Matt. 5:44) and those with whom we disagree. That Christlike love forms the very foundation of our faith. Esau McCaulley is an assistant professor of New Testament at Wheaton College and the author of Reading While Black: African American Biblical Interpretation as an Exercise in Hope. Speaking Out is Christianity Todays guest opinion column and (unlike an editorial) does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publication. [ This article is also available in espanol. ] To the editor: I support Brad Blasy for the Midland Public Schools school board. I have known Brad since we were students in the Midland Public Schools; I have done business with Brad for years, and I trust Brad completely to make the kinds of difficult decisions a board member has to make especially in these trying times. Brad is a business owner of the highest intelligence and integrity and as a lifelong member of our community he understands, better than most, what our students truly need. Ive watched him since I first voted for him in 2016, and could not be happier. Brad is one of the only members of the school board who actually asks questions of the administration. Its refreshingly and patently clear that hes thinking of the teachers and students and not himself while fulfilling his board duties. Please join me in proudly voting for Brad Blasy for School Board. Japan's NEC Corp said on Monday it will buy Swiss financial software company Avaloq Group AG for 2.05 billion Swiss francs ($2.2 billion), a move that will spearhead its entry globally into finance software. NEC will acquire unlisted Avaloq, Europe's top provider of financial asset management software, from Avaloq's founder and employees and private equity firm Warburg Pincus, which has a 45% stake and engineered the sale. Avaloq, whose customers include Deutsche Bank and HSBC, reported sales of 610 million Swiss francs ($664 million) last year, 70% of which came from Europe. The deal will allow NEC to offer cloud services acquired through the merger combined with its own biometrics and data analysis products to financial institutions and governments as digitalization gathers pace. It has spent the last decade restructuring unprofitable units that lost business to price-competitive Asian rivals, selling its semiconductor, personal computer and smartphone units. NEC said it will target Japan, where financial institutions have been slow to move online and new Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has pledged to modernize outdated government systems. "Japan is lagging in financial digitalization and this will be a big trend," Chief Executive Takashi Niino told a news briefing. The deal follows NEC's 2018 acquisition of British IT services company Northgate Public Services, whose customers include London's Metropolitan Police, and 2019 purchase of Danish e-government services firm KMD for more than $1 billion. NEC "share my ambition for Avaloq to continue to shape the future of the financial industry by continuing to invest heavily in R&D," Avaloq founder Francisco Fernandez said in a statement. Warburg Pincus had been targeting a 2020 sale or listing of Avaloq, Reuters reported last year. NEC recently received a 64.5 billion yen ($560 million) investment from Japanese telecoms company Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT) to beef up its efforts to develop fifth-generation (5G) wireless technologies. NEC held around 400 billion yen ($3.8 billion) in cash and cash equivalents at the end of June. The deal is expected to be completed by April 2021 after necessary approvals. A Northern California mother fought off an attacker outside her apartment in Elk Grove, near Sacramentoan act police say likely saved not only her own life but also that of her 3-year-old daughter. When Kim Santos was walking through the parking lot outside her apartment complex around 9 p.m. with her daughter, she says a man in a mask ran toward them and grabbed hold of her. Once he started running towards us I was like, Whats happening? in my head, she recounted to KTLA5, with a shaking voice and tears streaming down her face. Santos struggled with her attacker, pushing her daughter aside as she attempted to fend the man off. Intersection of Center Parkway and Bruceville Rd. (Screenshot/Google Maps) I have bruises and cuts on my [thigh], she said, because he came to us full force. But when the attacker snatched up her 3-year-old daughter, Santos says her motherly instinct kicked in with a vengeance. Too panicked to scream at first, she began kicking and punching with all her might. When he had grabbed both her and me thats when I kicked and kicked and I started punching, she told KTLA5. In the struggle, Santos fought for both her own life and her daughters, saying she knew she couldnt let the man drag them away. In my mind, I was like, No, this is not happening, she said. Amid the sounds of screaming and crying from Santos and her daughter, the attacker eventually gave up and retreated, leaving them shaken but alive. As he fled the scene, neighbors came out of the apartment complex in response to the sounds. Elk Grove police say that Santoss decision to fight probably saved their lives. She did everything she could in that moment, said Hannah Gray, spokeswoman for Elk Grove Police Department. We would encourage everyone to do the same. In a tearful Facebook Live video, posted the same night as the attack, Santos begged of parents, Always be prepared, no matter what. Because you never know. Santos described her attacker as approximately 30 years old, with a medium build, Hispanic-like complexion, and black poofy hair. He was wearing a face mask and black-framed glasses. Police are still tracking down the suspect. I hope we get to find this guy, because I dont want this happening to anyone else, Santos said. This is a really scary thing. After interviewing with KTLA5, Santos can be heard consoling her daughter, saying: You did good, honey. Mommy will always protect you, all right? We would love to hear your stories! You can share them with us at emg.inspired@epochtimes.nyc Press Release October 5, 2020 Responses of Senate Ways and Means Chair Pia S. Cayetano to the questions of Sen. Joel Villanueva On the CREATE bill Sen. Joel asked about the enhanced deductions under CREATE Sen. Pia: As I already pointed out in last week's interpellation, CREATE already recommends a 150% deduction for labor. So if registered enterprises choose the enhanced deductions, they would get 150% compared to the 100% that is allowed by regular corporations that do not have deductions. So may I clarify that what his honor is now asking is that, even non-registered companies would be able to avail of enhanced deductions? Sen. Joel asked if Sen. Pia would be open to expanding enhanced deductions Sen. Pia: We have existing laws that also provide for deductions: RA 7686, which is the Dual Training System Act, it provides for a 50% additional deduction for agriculture, industrial, and business establishments that will participate in training systems; and RA 6971, the Productivity Incentive Act of 1993, which grants business enterprises manpower, training, and special studies to rank and file employees. Pursuant to a particular program, they would also be entitled to an additional 50%. So, these already exist for companies that are not registered. --- Sen. Pia: I actually only mentioned two laws that offer enhanced labor deduction. There are more than two, including the Philippine Green Job, which is very consistent with our sustainable development goals. I'd like to throw back the question to his honor, because when his honor says that companies have not availed, I would like to point out that the solution is not to just repeat it in another law. There are laws already governing that, that grant these incentives. I don't see how including it here would change that. So maybe we can challenge DOLE to increase their campaign for this, maybe it's also a campaign on the awareness of the various sectors that training is vital for survival in the 21st century. But I do not see the advantage of repeating that when there are already existing laws that provide for those additional incentives, exactly what his honor is referring to. --- Sen. Pia: On the first point his honor mentioned, that they would be enticed by putting it in CREATE, if there is no difference in the offer, then I don't understand how they would be enticed. If what his honor is proposing is an amendment of those laws that would be included in CREATE, because it would change the provisions... I can understand the logic there. Because you are changing the requirements. However, I do not know if the right place to do this is CREATE, because I am trying to be consistent with the requirement on one subject, one bill. And as it is, we have the income tax and then the incentives that are given through the FIRB, for registered corporations. To start amending the other existing laws not to be governed by the FIRB, I am not sure if I am able to do that without violating the Constitution. So that would be my restriction, not in contradiction to his honor's proposal per se. --- Sen. Pia: Always open. Just a caveat that the amendments that obviously would be easier for me to accept would be amendments that would be aligned with the job opportunities. Since we are trying to develop the areas of science and technology, syempre mas aligned ho doon ang ating deductions. Another point I would like to respond to, when his honor said na hindi maka-avail ang MSMEs sa incentives because they cannot comply with the capital requirement, there is no capital requirement. The MSMEs are welcome to apply. And again, maybe this can be a campaign that DOLE, SEC, DTI, should really embark on so the MSMEs know that they are welcome to register and avail of these incentives because it is misinformation when they think they cannot avail of the incentives because of the high capital requirement. Otherwise, they would no longer be an "MS" kung large na sila. And the objective really is to also include them. --- Sen. Pia: As to a specific amount of a capital, there is no specific amount, there is no amount specified. And technology is only one of the criteria looked at to qualify for incentives. As I mentioned, we have Tier 1, 2, 3. And basically, in Tier 1, if you are addressing sustainable development goals, basic agriculture, pasok naman po yun. It's only in Tier 3 that advanced use of technology is required. --- Sen. Pia: We need to distinguish between regular companies that are allowed 100% deduction for labor. So we are only making it more enticing when the business objective is aligned with our SIPP. And whether that's technology, or agriculture, construction... Hindi naman mahirap mag-qualify talaga sa Tier 1. And they would get enhanced deduction... --- Sen. Pia: In other countries, I have actually studied apprenticeship programs in Europe. In Italy, they have a very strong apprenticeship program, so as in Germany, and definitely, I understand that that actually takes the place of further education because they are very specific with the training they receive. And so, I am very open to that. As to how it would be applied, I don't know. I would be happy to work on this with his honor to check with the DOF and others on how this would apply... In principle, I support. I just don't know if there are limitations as far as DOF is [concerned]. Because I know, in general, their concern there is maraming nag-aabuso ng provisions na ito. So that I think is the main concern they have. --- Sen. Pia: I just wanted to respond that although the position taken by DOF is that the enhanced deduction would only apply to employees, and apprentices are not considered employees, personally, I would be open to this for so long as there is a validated apprenticeship program. I think that's very important because hindi naman pwedeng basta kahit sino lang, tinatanggap. I think that will strengthen our common advocacy on the strong linkages between the academe and the companies... As a very quick example, I was able to facilitate such an arrangement between Taguig City's youth and IBM I think four years ago... They needed a high school program that went beyond two years. So the senior high of grades 11 and 12 was not enough. That's why it really entailed that we had close coordination because we had to start a year or two before that on this very specialized training program for the youth. It was included in the curriculum that was provided for by IBM. So I am very interested. I just want to provide the necessary support to ensure that it is not abused... On the MSMEs registering for incentives, I must emphasize that this is something that we will require DTI and the other agencies to really highly promote because in fact, under CREATE, the processing time for MSMEs is just 3 days, as opposed to the lengthier time for non-MSMEs. --- Sen. Pia: This is actually the reason for an FIRB under CREATE because we really need this kind of data to help us monitor and hold these companies accountable for what they do... Mamaya diyan, nagre-retrench? sila, nagva-violate sila, and I share his honor's concern for the labor sector. The requirement for the continued registration would obviously be in compliance with the labor laws. And that is supposed to be monitored by the IPAs. But do we really know if it's being monitored? I don't believe we have information that shows us how many IPAs have "disciplined" the registered businesses for violations. I don't even know if we have that. And we should be able to compare that through the IPAs so that ma-ensure natin na, ito pala magaling, maraming citation na binigay tapos na-check niya. Wala tayong ganun as far as I know. --- Sen. Pia: I am with you on the desire to create stability for the jobs. But I also am mindful that there may be different conditions that would be in place, circumstances wherein we need to give these companies flexibility if they need to fire. That's a basic right naman of an employer, diba? So as long as ganun naman ang tenor nun, I don't think it is correct to interfere with that basic power that they have to hire and to fire. So a general provision on retrenchment, I am not so sure how that will work. I would imagine they are availing of incentives and know what kind of technology they are putting in, so para mag-retrench sila because of redundancy or something like that in the first few years, parang hindi naman ata mangyayari yun because they know what they are bringing in. So it may just require a little bit more communication and we are happy to do it off the floor to see what we can do to strengthen it, but limit lang naman... Because baka naman matakot din pumasok dito sa atin ang mga companies. I want to hold them by their duty to respect and uphold the rights of laborers, at the same time, not create this environment where pinagbabawalan naman natin sila... And may due process naman sila. --- Sen. Pia: Just to be clear, when you approve their application, nakalagay naman doon that they are bound to comply with labor laws of the Philippines. And we can improve on that and be very specific. Because of course, we expect them to do that, but wala akong problema na i-highlight pa lalo yan. The kind of businesses that may enter, the number of employees are also conditions that are also looked at by the approving authority. So obviously, kung ang "come on" nila is, "We're hiring this many," then agad-agad sila nagtanggal, malabo naman yun... Kung factor talaga yan kung bakit ka binigyan, nakatali ka talaga doon. --- Sen. Pia: There could possibly be businesses coming in with small staffing, but let's say they are highly specialized in the sciences. So let's say, they only have a team of 10 scientists, and are open to tying up with UP, UST, for a few other scientists. So they may not be labor intensive, but they are directly addressing our goal in Tier 3 on research, improvement in science and technology. --- Sen. Pia: It is not always just about job generation. That's why I gave that kind of example, that it may be specific to a certain area of business, and in this case, it is science and research, na hindi labor per se ang pakay. There may be other businesses though that are focused on labor/job generation, and therefore perhaps the requirement on no retrenchment would come in there... We have to have that degree of flexibility. So the answer would be, no they are not always. It's a major consideration because we have a labor problem still to the extent that we need jobs, but it is not the only kind of businesses that we are trying to attract. --- Sen. Pia: It should be as diverse and as detailed as we need it to be. Because we can talk about rank and file, but I would still want to know what kind of training, skills are they doing. They're still rank and file, but they may be doing different skills in different companies. Which ones are receiving a lot of training? What kind of training? So I don't think there is any need to confine ourselves to a certain kind of monitoring... I highly encourage his honor to give them his recommendations to improve the kind of monitoring and feedback we need to attract the kind of jobs we want and create the labor force that we want. --- Sen. Pia: They will be doing that for the assessment of the application because they will have to determine kung Tier 1, 2, or 3, and the impact on the location... in that particular area. --- So definitely, they will already be considering the cost-benefit analysis. But I think the impact of this provision is to really require that the IPAs shall submit the data that will enable FIRB to do that. The problem that DOF has encountered, and [inaudible] as well, and I think to a certain extent, they cannot get the data from the IPAs. So that is the reason for this provision. So that is the reason for that provision, but it doesn't mean that that is the only time that they will be applying that cost-benefit analysis.. Sen. Pia: His honor and I are very much aligned in requiring that these companies are accountable, especially an industry like that. But for that matter, other industries, maybe on the surface... ang wastewater pala nila hindi nati-treat... Spread out throughout the bill are requirements for the sustainability of their enterprise. What we can explore is if there is still a further need for an amendment that would ensure that the cost-benefit analysis includes that. I've spread the accountability in terms of sustainability throughout the bill. I am happy to improve it to ensure that really happens. --- Sen. Pia: By mandating under the CREATE law that these data [cost-benefit analysis] be available, then once we have that template... it's a tool that will benefit us. With the data, this will really empower us... I am proud of our work in including the sustainability of their ventures in there. Because not all are as visibly destructive as mining [which] consumes our natural resources. And other companies may not show that on the surface, but it can have detrimental effects also. That is why CBAs would really be required under our CREATE bill. --- Sen. Pia: If based on the technology they are using, that itself is destructive without question, I guess that would have a final effect on their application. But if it is just a minor component, it's not even the main business... I think madali naman nilang mapa-amend yun na, "No, we are already using higher level of [technology]." But if it's the main business, then that may affect the whole application itself. --- Thank you very much, Sen. Joel Villanueva. I really appreciate your comments and concerns. I am happy that you spread it into the records. Because that will help guide the implementing agencies on our intention here in the Senate. Thank you. Market Buzz Easy ways to check share allotment status The IPO of Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders was well-received and the allotment status should be finalised soon. The company is expected to finalise the basis of allotment around October 7. Here is how you can check the allotment status once it is done. Dhaka, Oct 5 : A brutal gang rape of a house wife that took place in Bangladesh's Noakhali district last month, has come to light now after a video of the incident went viral on social media. After the video went viral on Sunday night, at least four people have been arrested. While two of the accused were arrested by the police on Sunday night, two others were taken in by a team of the elite Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on Monday morning. According to the victim's statement and the confessions of the detainees, at least five people were involved in the gang rape took place on September 2 at the Joykrishnapur village is Begumganj upazila. She said in the statement that the accused had been making advances towards her and when she refused they entered her house at night and raped her. Locals have alleged that notorious drug trader Delwar, the chief of 'Delwar Bahini', and six of his followers were involved in the crime. It was also learned that other cases, including murder, were filed against some of them previously. Moazzem Hossain from Noakhali's Eklashpur upazila, said: "The woman got married 3 years ago. She moved to her father's house after her husband remarried. Recently, her husband started to meet her again, the local boys used bad languages to her for this. "Some youths objected to the matter and raped the woman that day. The woman was with her husband on the day of the incident. The perpetrators also detained her husband. Later, the woman's brother rescued her with 1,500 tk." The police said that the accused had filmed the incident with the intent of spreading it on Facebook. During the crime, one of the perpetrator was heard saying, "this will go on Facebook", while another said "no, let's go live". Between January and August this year, a total of 889 rapes incidents were reported in Bangladesh. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text China has expressed displeasure over recent policy guidance issued by the Trump administration regarding inadmissibility based on affiliation with the Chinese Communist Party. Taking to Twitter on Sunday, October 4, Hu Xijin, the editor-in-chief of the Chinese mouthpiece Global Times, said that the latest update by the US Department of Homeland Security (USCIS) keeps more talents in China as many outstanding professionals are associated with the CCP. In the indirect dig, he also said that non-CPC members now have less interest in immigrating to America. Many outstanding talents in China are Communist Party members. The decision by the US helps keep more talents in China since it takes out their illusion. Not bad. Whats more, non-CPC members now have much less interest in immigrating to the US. pic.twitter.com/v7DtSZ2Hma Hu Xijin (@HuXijin_GT) October 4, 2020 Read - US State Dept Report Accuses China Of Threatening Global Economy With Environmental Abuse Xinjins tweet comes as the USCIS issued guidance on its policy manual on Friday, October 2 to reject immigration based on membership with CCP or any other totalitarian party. In the official release, USCIS had said that association to such parties is "inconsistent and incompatible" with the 'Naturalisation Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America', which includes pledging to "support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States". Read - Quad Nation Foreign Ministers To Discuss Thwarting China's Aggression In Indo-Pacific Read - US Slams Hong Kong Authorities For Arresting Over 80 People In China National Day Protest US accuses China of threatening global economy Earlier, the United States accused China of threatening the global economy by exploiting natural resources through its One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative. In a report titled Chinas Environmental Abuses Fact Sheet, the US State Department said that even though the Chinese Communist Party claims of a zero-tolerance policy towards a range of activities, Beijing is the largest emitter of the greenhouse gases. US State Department said, Beijing is the worlds largest emitter of greenhouse gases; the largest source of marine debris; the worst perpetrators of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing; and the worlds largest consumer of trafficked wildlife and timber products." "While the Chinese people have suffered the worst environmental impacts of its actions, Beijing also threatens the global economy and global health by unsustainably exploiting natural resources and exporting its willful disregard for the environment through its One Belt One Road initiative, the report added. Read - A Non-existent LAC And Chinas Cartographic Fancy: Laid Bare In Maps; Foreseen By Patel Read - Angela Merkel Asks China To Provide Greater Reciprocity To EU Businesses It would not be outrageous to think that humanity is already more than halfway to hell in a handcart with broken brakes. That we are hurtling towards a destruction of our own making, governed by psychopaths, and conditioned to think only of our own immediate consumer needs. This would not be an unreasonable assumption, given how we are permanently caught up in a 24-hour news loop of doom and locked into social media algorithms designed to keep us online (and thereby view more adverts) by 'awfulising' - this strategy is explained in the recent Netflix documentary The Social Dilemma. No wonder we are in an almost continual state of fear, stress, anger and pessimism - even when Covid-19 was still just a twinkle in Wuhan's eye. It need not be like this, says Ruby Wax (67), who urges us to take charge of our thinking, our actions, and ultimately our lives. In her latest book, And Now For The Good News: To The Future With Love, the entertainer and mental health advocate explores five aspects of humanity - community, business, education, technology and food - on her mission "to tantalise you out of the negativity zone" by highlighting where the "green shoots of hope are peeping through the soil of civilisation." In other words, she is sharing the good news, rather than the bad. The book, involving much travel and talking with leaders, scientists and techies, had not envisaged a global pandemic adding to Wax's original target list when she began in 2018: "climate change, greedy bankers, exam results, crap politicians, mental health." It was her own severe depression which led Wax to complete a Master's degree in mindfulness at Oxford, and switch her focus towards mental health advocacy, in turn leading her towards ideas of forgiveness, compassion and hope, and - in this latest book - action. She advocates becoming more involved with local projects that help others, in turn bolstering our own sense of self, and reclaiming our collective humanity. "Turn off the news," she says. "Connect with people, even if it means knocking on their window to say hi. The antidote to anger and fear is to work within communities, to connect. Nobody's going to do it for you. If something is making you sick, then back off - community and compassion are what makes us well." She adds, "There is nothing as high-making as helping someone." She urges us to step away from our screens, get out there and get involved in our communities, and re-empower ourselves not just with knowledge, but with active participation. COMMUNITY Ruby Wax says that the biggest cause of emotional pain in the West is loneliness and isolation - before Covid ever hit. The brain's response to loneliness is activated in the same area as physical injury - it hurts. And isolation shortens lifespan. "We are the first species in two million years to disband its own tribes," she writes. The feeling of being seen by our fellow humans - not online, but in real life - is the antidote. Her response to feeling isolated and unable to stomach superficial chit chat at 'normal' social gatherings spurred her to start a community initiative called the Frazzled Cafe, meeting places where "It's OK not to be OK". She describes these meet-ups as safe places where small groups of people can meet and speak honestly to each other "without fear of appearing weak." They're a place, she says, "where we can cut the cocktail [party] crap and talk straight from the heart" - not unlike 12 Steps meetings, except without the addiction requirement. Since Covid, they've gone online. The good news is that anyone can start one - check out how at frazzledcafe.org. EDUCATION "Why are so many children burning out from the pressures at school?" asks Wax. Why doesn't school prepare young people for the actual world, rather than embedding them with a sense of failure? Why do we place such emphasis on regurgitating memorised information in an artificially pressurised environment, instead of actual creative thinking? And why all the homework? "Today's educational system is based on Victorian manufacturing factory systems... kids are put on a learning conveyor belt, then sorted, packaged and labelled according to how their intelligence is measured," she writes. Teachers are overworked and underpaid, and socially undervalued. "League tables are sh*t," she says. Wax compares the Chinese education model (high test results, high suicide rates in early teens, students so exhausted they stand up during class so as not to fall asleep) with the Finnish model (formal education begins aged seven, school days are from 9am to 2pm, and there's almost no homework). Finnish children are encouraged to learn how to think, rather than how to memorise. Teachers in Finland are well paid, and teaching is considered a highly prestigious and desirable profession. But unless you can afford to send your child to a school closer to the Finnish model, such as Steiner Waldorf, or home educate them yourself (the number of home-educated children in Ireland doubled between 2006 and 2017), you may not have too many other options. The good news is that tech is on hand to democratise opportunity and provide remote access for students of all ages, from age three to university level. Hello Genius is "a platform for outlier kids" aged three to nine; Udemy offers 100,000 video courses for older students; Coursera is low cost, but with professors from Princeton, Stanford and John Hopkins; Futurelearn offers totally free courses in law, business, arts, science, and digital. Online learning, accelerated by the pandemic, is on the rise for everyone, and with it coms long-overdue new models of how we educate. TECH We all know the evils of Big Tech - device addiction, self-esteem based on likes and shares - but Wax points out that when tech is good, it's very good indeed. Sustainable innovations in medicine, biofabrication, 3D printing, video games as a vehicle for positive emotional development , interactive robots to help people with their mental health, apps that encourage random acts of kindness, virtual reality for empathy training - the list continues to grow. Yet for many of us, we may feel that tech is using us, rather than the other way around - we are its slaves, entrapped by the smart harnessing of our own narcissism. Wax offers mindful strategies to counteract phone addiction (envisage in slow motion throwing it out the window), urge surfing (investigate what it feels like when you have the urge to pick up your phone, then let that feeling pass through) and being present with your computer (breathing exercises so that you enter a flow state while working at your computer, rather than being stymied by distraction). FOOD There's not much Ruby can tell us about bad diet that is not common knowledge, so instead she urges us to follow the advice of Michael Pollan - eat food, not too much, mostly plants - and to wake up to the importance of the gut biome, where the link between diverse gut flora and better physical and mental health is becoming increasingly more evident. So more probiotics, fermented foods, whole foods etc. But this is all me-centric, more Gwyneth than Ruby. So she also highlights our growing awareness around food waste, food poverty, growing your own, and generally being more conscious of where your dinner comes from and how it got on your plate. She even posits that thanks to tech and better management and co-operation, world hunger could be eradicated this century. Now that would be good news. A group of about 75 mostly Catholic supporters of President Donald Trumps gathered Sunday in South Philadelphia for an anti-abortion rally, the Trump campaigns first event in the city since the president contracted the coronavirus and was hospitalized. Randall Terry, an anti-abortion activist who has been leading a Stop Biden Express bus tour, asked the crowd to implore their Catholic friends not to vote for the Democratic nominee because of his support for abortion rights. Our mission from this day to Nov. 3 is very simple: to suppress the Joe Biden Catholic vote. Our mission is to suppress the Joe Biden Catholic vote, Terry said at Marconi Plaza. So whether they vote for Trump or not is a separate issue. And the way we do that is we say to them, What you do to the least of Jesus brothers and sisters, you do to Jesus.' A lifelong Catholic, Biden has said he is personally opposed to abortion, but believes that women have a legal right to have one. He was denied the sacrament of eucharist by a priest last year while attending Mass in South Carolina due to his stance on the issue. If elected, Biden would be the second Catholic president, following John F. Kennedy. Trump, who identifies as Presbyterian but is seen by most Americans as not religious, according to surveys, has been a staunch supporter of anti-abortion policies and judges during his term. The Trump campaign has made energizing religious conservatives a major focus, especially after his nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. READ MORE: The election in Pa. is rocked by the uncertainty of a president stricken by coronavirus Sundays event did not attract a counter-protest by Trump opponents, as some others have. And although it took place in Marconi Plaza, home of the Christopher Columbus statue that the city has already covered and is planning to remove following clashing demonstrations this past summer, that imbroglio was not mentioned by any of the speakers. Sister Dede Byrne, a Catholic nun and U.S. military veteran who spoke at the Republican National Convention, was the featured speaker at Sundays event. Byrne said she believed Trump would survive and benefit from his coronavirus infection. So many are praying for him. Hes going to be fine. Hes going to get through this COVID thing, Byrne said. I guess God wanted everyone to know Trump is a tough guy. Hes going to get this, hes been protected, and hes going to get stronger. About one-fifth of Americans are Catholic. After being a solidly Democratic voting bloc until the middle of the 20th century, the faith is now split almost evenly between Republicans and Democrats, according to the Pew Research Center. A majority of white Catholics voters are Republicans, while about two-thirds of Hispanic Catholics are Democrats. Despite Trump having been infected by the coronavirus following his frequent refusal to wear a face mask, at least 35 attendees did not wear face coverings at the outdoor event. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing a face mask in public settings to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and the city of Philadelphia has required it since June. Debra Mazda, 66, said she wears masks indoors and sometimes outdoors, but forgot to bring one to the rally. Mazda, who hugged several people at the event, said she prefers not to wear one if she isnt in a situation where she is required to, such as at work. Im one of the people who believe most of it was a scam anyway said Mazda, who lives in New Jersey but is from South Philadelphia. Mazdas friend Marie Ciarrocchi, who attended the rally wearing a mask, cut in. Just like Trump he didnt wear the mask, and now hes got the virus, Ciarrocchi said. Ive done a lot of research on it, and I really believe the numbers are skewed," Mazda responded. More than 209,000 Americans have died in the pandemic, including more than 8,200 in Pennsylvania and 1,800 in Philadelphia. Jaguar Land Rover retail sales for the three-month period to 30 September 2020 were significantly improved from sales in the preceding quarter but continue to be impacted by Covid-19. Almost all of Jaguar Land Rover's retailers worldwide are now open or partially open and the company's plants have resumed production with robust protocol and guidelines to ensure that effective social distancing, hygiene and health monitoring measures are in place and all sites are Covid-19 secure. The vehicle manufacturing plants at Solihull (UK), Halewood (UK) and Nitra (Slovakia), as well as the Engine Manufacturing Centre (UK), have now increased to a two-shift pattern to meet increasing demand. Retail sales for the quarter ending 30 September 2020 were 113,569 vehicles, up over 50% from sales of 74,067 in the prior quarter, while down 11.9% from pre-Covid levels a year ago. China sales were particularly encouraging, up 14.6% on the prior quarter and 3.7% year-on-year. The month of September also saw sales up 28.5% year-on-year in China. Retail sales for other regions also significantly improved from the prior quarter, including the UK (+231.6%), Europe (+78.8%), North America (+21.3%) and Overseas (+35.1%). However, sales in these regions have not yet recovered to pre-Covid levels a year ago: UK (-2.9%), North America (- 15.8%), Europe (-19.8%) and Overseas markets (-30.3%). The launch of the exciting new Land Rover Defender continued and sales gained pace in the quarter, rising to 4,508 units in the month of September. Despite the pandemic, the company continues to launch planned new products and announced the new model year Jaguar F-PACE and Range Rover Velar, both now with mild-hybrid (MHEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants. This brings the number of models offering PHEVs and MHEVs to seven each, with one more PHEV and four further MHEVs to be announced this year. Jaguar Land Rover will be releasing its financial results for the quarter to 30 September 2020 later this month. The company ended September with about 3 billion of cash and short-term deposits, up 0.3 billion, primarily reflecting positive free cash flow as expected in the quarter. Total liquidity was about 5 billion, including the company's 1.9 billion revolving credit facility, which remains undrawn. Powered by Capital Market - Live News (This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Police Departments directive, issued Friday in memos and a video, came after elected officials repeatedly called out the police for flouting the mask mandate they are supposed to enforce. About 400 officers have been assigned to nine neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Queens where there has been an uptick in coronavirus cases and where the city plans to close nonessential businesses and schools this week. Electromagnetic Geoservices ASA (the Company or EMGS) releases information on vessel activity and multi-client sales during the quarter 4-5 working days after the close of each quarter. At the end of the third quarter 2020 the Company had one vessel on charter, the Atlantic Guardian. The Atlantic Guardian was cold stacked in Norway for the entire quarter. Multi-client revenues in the third quarter The Company expects to record approximately USD 0.1 million in multi-client revenues for the third quarter 2020. EMGS will publish its third quarter 2020 financial results on Thursday 5 November 2020 at 07:30 local time (Norway). A recorded presentation will be broadcasted over the Internet, available from 10:00 local time (Norway). To access the presentation, please go to the Companys homepage (www.emgs.com) and follow the link. Contact Anders Eimstad, Chief Financial Officer, +47 948 25 836 About EMGS EMGS, the marine EM market leader, uses its proprietary electromagnetic (EM) technology to support oil and gas companies in their search for offshore hydrocarbons. EMGS supports each stage in the workflow, from survey design and data acquisition to processing and interpretation. The Company's services enable the integration of EM data with seismic and other geophysical and geological information to give exploration experts a clearer and more complete understanding of the subsurface. This improves exploration efficiency and reduces risks and the finding costs per barrel. For more information, visit www.emgs.com This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act NEW DELHI: The results of Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced 2020 was declared at 10 am on October 5, 2020 on IIT JEE Official website. Candidates who appeared for the IIT-JEE exam 2020 can now check their score by visiting the official website jeeadv.ac.in. Candidates can check their JEE Advanced 2020 results by entering their required credentials on the official website of JEE Advanced. Following the declaration of the result, the seat allocation process, or JoSSA counselling registration process, will begin on October 6 and continue till November 9. JEE Advanced 2020 results declared, Chirag Falor bags AIR- 1 with 352 marks: Pune boy Chirag Falor has bagged the top rank in the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE)-Advanced, results of which was announced on Monday, according to officials. The second and third rank have been bagged by Gangula Bhuvan Reddy and Vaibhav Raj respectively. "Kanishka Mittal is the national topper among females," said an official of IIT-Delhi. Over 43,000 candidates qualify JEE Advanced 2020 exam: Of total 1,50,838 candidates who appeared for the JEE Advanced exam, at least 43,204 candidates qualified the paper. Among the total qualified candidates, 6,707 are female candidates. JEE Advanced 2020 was held successfully across the nation on September 27 by IIT Delhi. Nearly, one lakh candidates appeared for the JEE Advanced 2020 exam amid the COVID-19 pandemic. IIT Delhi has also released the All India Rankings (AIR) along with the scorecards. Out of the total registered candidates for JEE Advanced exam, 96 per cent of them appeared for the JEE Advanced exam 2020. The JEE Advanced exams were held in 222 cities and 1001 JEE exam centers all over the country. A total of 1,51,311 candidates wrote Paper 1 and 1,50,900 candidates appeared in Paper 2 of JEE Advanced 2020 exam. JEE Advanced 2020: Know here steps to check results online: Step 1: Go on the official website at jeeadv.nic.in Step 2: On the homepage, click on the link which says JEE Advanced Result 2020 Step 3: A new page will now open Step 4: Enter all the details asked Step 5: Click on submit Step 6: Your JEE Advanced 2020 result will now be displayed on the screen Step 7: Download and take a printout for a future reference. The JEE (Advanced) 2020 qualified candidates must register with Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) 2020 and fill in course choices in order to be eligible for admission in IITs. The students who will clear Advanced can seek admissions to IITs, including institutes- Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore (IISc), Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs), Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology (RGIPT), Indian Institute of Petroleum & Energy, Visakhapatnam. Leftist politics: Psychological projection and other derangements By Greg Strange As human beings we are all aware of the fact that different people live in different realities and believe in different truths. Like the political right and left, for instance. Their respective realities and truths exist in such stark opposition to each other that it is literally impossible for both of them to be simultaneously true. When life was more primitive and basic, though, this wasnt much of a problem for humanity because when the main focus in life was physical survival, ridiculous flights of fancy were a luxury most could not afford. But now, in our current postmodern world, life is infinitely more complex. And given that most peoples basic needs are met, they are free to indulge in phantasmagorical belief systems to their hearts content, unencumbered by any of the practical considerations that most people throughout history could only ignore at their peril. And thus, you have the radical, postmodern Democrat Party, whose beliefs and wish list would have been rejected by the author of 1984 as too absurd even for a work of dystopian fiction. And marching along in lockstep with that party is the postmodern mainstream media, whose job it seems is to try and present all the Democrat cray-cray as normal and good. In addition to sheer lunacy, the left trades heavily in a psychological condition known as projection. Thats basically when you project onto others what you yourself are thinking or doing. The single best example in the universe is Antifa, which claims, without embarrassment or irony, to be . . . um . . . antifascist, even as they go about the nasty business of rioting, burning, looting, dismantling, toppling, in addition to intimidating and assaulting anyone who openly disagrees with them. If the name Antifa were a punch line, it would land with a violent thud! and theyd be heckled right out of the joint and into permanent obscurity. Nonetheless, projection is a core tactic, or characteristic, of the left, depending on whether or not it is done consciously or unconsciously. And since the mainstream media is hopelessly biased towards the left, they are prominent practitioners of projection. Case in point: Recently, New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman appeared on CNNs Anderson Cooper 360 to talk about how terrified he is that Trump is going to refuse to leave office when/if hes defeated in the election and that will lead to a civil war: I think its DEFCON 5. The president of the United States has told us either I win the election or I delegitimize the election. Now that is some serious projection right there! That is projection on steroids, eyes bugging out and spewing spittle in every direction. These guys like Friedman, Anderson Cooper and the like, are supposed to be well-versed in whats going on in the news, right? But they must have somehow missed the nationally televised message from Hillary Clinton when she said, and I quote, Joe Biden should not concede under any circumstances! Hello? Wouldnt any circumstances include a Trump landslide? But still, Uncle Joe should not concede. And there you have it, straight from the mouth of the Hildebeast. But Friedman thinks its Trump that will bring about a civil war. Thats his truth or his projection. Where has this guy been for the last five and a half years? Can the bubble he lives in be so all encompassing that it shields him from even a whiff of reality? Is he totally unaware of the coup attempt against Trump that began five seconds after the escalator ride and hasnt relented for a single second since? And now Hillary is recommending another one, should he be reelected! Can an astute journalist fail to notice these kinds of things? In addition to Hillarys brazen and unapologetic declaration of the possible need for yet another coup attempt, we have much else, none of it a secret. Lets see . . . The Democrats are going to foment electoral chaos through mail-in voting, which is endlessly susceptible to cheating. That, in turn, will lead to an avalanche of legal challenges (another Hillary quote: Weve got to have a massive legal operation.). Their Big Tech accomplices will go all in with information manipulation and censorship of anything that might give Trump a leg up. And, of course, there will be endless intimidation from the ever present threat of violence in the streets if the Marxist zombie mob doesnt get its way. And guess what? The leftist media will be right there to pour fuel on all the many fires the Dems will start. But Friedmans overarching concern is that Trump wont meekly step down after the very first claim of a Biden victory. Phew! Does projection ever cross over into a clinical state of psychosis? What does Friedman expect Trump to say when asked by the mainstream media if he will step down when/if Biden is elected? Well, sure, mainstream media, even though Ive been under a never-ending coup attempt since I stepped into the political arena, and even though whats been going on in this country for months is nothing less than a Marxist attempt at insurrection, Ill just concede as soon as your fake results are in. You just let me know when! Nope, thats not Trump because hes not just another pushover, milquetoast RINO. And thats why he is so despised. And thats why he is so projected upon by leftists. And thats why the very space-time continuum has been ripped by his political existence, at least in the fever swamp of the collective leftist mind. And thats why, despite all his very obvious flaws, at this moment he is the only thing standing in the way of America being completely undermined and eventually ruined. The Democrat Party and its depraved media allies are totally unmoored from the Founding Principles, Judeo-Christianity and traditional American values. They are animated by power, not by morality, and virtually everything they want is destructive to the American experiment and to the larger Western civilization. And all the while, they are projecting onto normal people with normal values their own malevolence. The only good news is that according to some recent surveys, the overwhelming majority of Americans dont trust the mainstream media. But people like Friedman are so self-assured of their own intellectual superiority that such surveys wont even faze them. So dont expect the injection of objectivity or impartiality into what passes for journalism these days. And dont expect the blatant projection to stop, either. Its Trump, not them, thats egging on the tearing apart of the social fabric. They are utterly unselfaware of whats wrong with them and thats not likely to change anytime soon. Theyre sort of like the tyrannical Captain Bligh of Mutiny on the Bounty fame, who allegedly said to his hapless sailors, The beatings will continue until morale improves! That strategys not going to work, but Captain Bligh just couldnt see it. Greg Strange can be reached at gpstrange30341@yahoo.com. (c) 2020 Greg Strange. Home Advertisement Trump demanded to leave hospital on Sunday and is worried it makes him look 'weak', anonymous sources cited by CNN claimed on Monday after the President fired off 19 early morning tweets reminding America to vote for him and brushed off criticism over his SUV outing. One source cited by CNN said: 'He is done with the hospital' and is concerned about the toll his ongoing treatment for COVID-19 might have on his election chances. Trump thinks being in the hospital makes him look 'weak', the source said. It comes amid claims that the President knew he had tested positive with the virus on Thursday night but kept it secret during an interview on Fox. Other sources cited by The Washington Post said he is s bored of staying at Walter Reed and is tired of watching round-the-clock news coverage of his condition. He is desperate to get back to work in the White House but aides are concerned if he leaves too early, it may be more detrimental to his health. White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows on Monday insisted to Fox News that Trump was in good health and made 'good progress'. Meadows said he was 'optimistic' that the President would be discharged from the hospital on Monday. Meadows said that a decision would be made this afternoon on whether or not Trump will be discharged but that more consultations were needed. He also defended Trump's outing on Sunday, as have other allies including former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski and Rudy Giuliani. CDC Director Dr. Fauci - who has butted heads with Trump on his handling of the virus - also confirmed on Monday morning that he is not involved in the President's care. Meadows said: 'He is ready to get back to a normal working schedule. He will meet with his doctors and nurses this morning to make further assessments of his progress.' In a flurry of tweets starting at 6.30am on Monday, Trump boasted about the stock markets, promised to deliver more tax cuts and listed 'pro life', 'space force', 'religious liberty' and 'law and order' as among reasons why he should win again. Over the weekend, Trump released several video addresses where he promised to be in good health despite his diagnosis, and the White House shared photographs of him working at the hospital. He claims to have been meeting some of the wounded veterans who are also being treated in the hospital. On Sunday night, he made a surprise appearance outside the hospital to thank fans who had turned out with signs, flags and banners wishing him a speedy recovery. Trump said he was touched by the outpouring of support and wanted to show his appreciation. But doctors - including one from Walter Reed - say it was irresponsible of him to get into the Presidential SUV with Secret Service agents and risk infecting them. Dr James Phillips, a Walter Reed attending doctor, condemned the president's Sunday afternoon drive, which violated Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines. It came as; White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany tested positive for COVID-19, becoming the latest in the president's circle to contract the virus Trump was criticized for going on a joy ride with Secret Service agents on Sunday, putting them at risk of exposure His inner circle said the agents volunteered; anonymous former agents said they'd have never been able to say no and that it was 'reckless' Trump was driven by his supporters where he waved at them from the SUV and he wore a face mask during the short trip A sign of supporter outside Walter Reed Medical Center on Monday morning. Fans have been there since Trump was admitted on Friday night Trump supporters outside Walter Reed on Monday morning. There has been a strong presence outside the hospital since Trump was admitted on Friday night The fans outside Walter Reed on Monday morning. Some held their hands on their hearts as they prayed for Trump's recovery TRUMP'S INNER CIRCLE WHO HAVE TESTED POSITIVE FOR COVID WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 1 Ronna McDaniel, 47. Chair of the Republican National Convention McDaniel is thought to have been the first positive case. It was not made public until after Trump's diagnosis. She was last in contact with Trump on September 25. McDaniel began isolating on September 26 when a member of her family tested positive. She got her results several days later. THURSDAY OCTOBER 2 Hope Hicks, 31, Counselor to the President Hicks was the first case reported and was tied to the President's positive test. She flew with him through the week before he was diagnosed and started feeling unwell on her way back from a rally in Minnesota on Wednesday night. She quarantined on Air Force One to stay away from him. President Donald Trump, 74 Confirmed positive diagnosis on Friday October 2 at 1am. Was taken to Walter Reed on Friday night, where he remained on Monday afternoon. Reported symptoms included trouble breathing, lethargy and a fever. He was given an antibody cocktail on Friday and other treatments. First Lady Melania Trump, 50 Confirmed positive diagnosis on Friday October 2 at 1am. She has been quarantining in the White House. She suffered mild symptoms including a cough and a headache but has said repeatedly that she feels 'good'. FRIDAY OCTOBER 2 Fr. John Jenkins, 66, President of the University of Notre Dame Jenkins attended the announcement of Amy Coney Barrett as Trump's Supreme Court Nomination without a mask on Saturday September 25. The event in the White House Rose Garden is now widely believed to be the source of many of the infections. He is not thought to have severe symptoms. Mike Lee, 49, Republican Utah Senator Lee also attended the event in the Rose Garden and he was seen hugging other attendees without a mask on. He is not thought to have severe symptoms either. Bill Stepien, 42, Trump's Campaign Manager Stepien tested positive after Trump. He had mild, flu-like symptoms and planned to continue working from home. He attended Tuesday night's rally in Cleveland, having flown with Trump and Hicks on Air Force One to and from the event. Michael Shear, 52, New York Times White House correspondent, and two other unnamed journalists The journalists' positive diagnoses were revealed on Friday. Two attended the SCOTUS event, where they said they were forced into pen like enclosures at the back, with little space between them. Hardly any of the guests at the event wore masks, they said. SATURDAY OCTOBER 3 Thom Tillis, 60, Republican North Carolina Senator Tillis announced that he'd tested positive after routinely testing negative. He said he was asymptomatic. 'Over the last few months, Ive been routinely tested for COVID-19, including testing negative last Saturday, but tonight my rapid antigen test came back positive,' he said in a statement. Chris Christie, 58, Former New Jersey Governor Christie has been at the White House frequently in recent weeks and was at the SCOTUS event. He tested positive on Saturday and checked himself into hospital, he said, out of an abundance of caution because of his health conditions including asthma. Nicholas Luna, 29, Chief of Oval Office Operations and 'body man' Luna's job requirements involve following Trump around at all times. He tested positive on Saturday night, more than 24 hours after President Trump did Ron Johnson, 65, Republican Wisconsin Senator Johnson still attended an Oktoberfest event on Friday night while awaiting the results of a COVID-19 test, despite knowing he had come into contact with others who had tested positive. He defended it, saying he was asymptomatic SUNDAY OCTOBER 4 Kellyanne Conway, 53, Former White House Counselor to the President Conway and her daughter have both tested positive. The daughter, Claudia, revealed on Tik Tok that her mom had been coughing all over their home MONDAY OCTOBER 5 Kayleigh McEnany, 32, White House Press Secretary McEnany had tested negative last week after Trump's diagnosis and she continued giving press conferences without a mask on until Sunday Chad Gilmartin. Assistant Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Assistant Press Secretary Two unnamed staff members who work in the White House residence. They were told to use 'discretion' when discussing it, according to The New York Times Advertisement Meadows slapped down the criticism on Monday morning in an interview with Fox. 'The President expressed appreciation to some of the people outside Walter Reed yesterday. Even that was getting criticism. 'How do we think that he got here? We came in Marine One. The agent who's been with him... we took additional precautions with PPE. 'A number of folks are just trying to make a big deal of that when indeed, I know that myself and some of the Secret Service detail are right there with him trying to make sure he's protected each and every day and that he returns to the White House as expeditiously as possible.' Corey Lewandowski, his former campaign manager, also defended the outing. He told Today that the agents involved volunteered to drive him and came under no duress. 'The President wanted to thank all the supporters. The detail leader and the driver both volunteered for that assignment.' 'They were not required to do that. They volunteered. There was a piece of plexiglass between the two agents and the Preisdent. 'The President wanted to show his supporters how much he appreciated them and show that you can still continue to function with COVID-19. He's a leader. He wants to lead. This was the President out thanking his supporters for supporting him.' In an interview with Good Morning America on Monday morning, Dr. Phillips doubled down on his claims that it was irresponsible. 'I don't know what the benefits of this political stunt were, but I do know what the risks were. 'My concern is that perhaps the Secret Service agents were inside don't know the full risk of what they were up against. 'So far as the military and Johns Hopkins physicians who are taking care of this patient, they're excellent. But they are also under undue pressure and a lot of influence outside of that normal physician-patient relationship. 'Influence weighs heavy and when we're dealing with a highly unusual environment like what we're in right now, the question is - and I'd love to hear the answer from some military physician folks - where does that line between that physician patient relationship come into contact with the commanding officer and subordinate relationship?' Doctors said the president's treatment with dexamethasone - a steroid used for patients who require extra oxygen - is the clearest sign yet that Trump may have a severe case of Covid-19. Phillips, chief of disaster medicine at George Washington University's Emergency Medicine division, and a COVID-19 consultant specializing on how to reopen safely, said that the design of the presidential vehicle, specifically modified to protect the passengers from attacks, made the drive even more dangerous. 'That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack,' he continued. 'The risk of COVID19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play. 'Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary Presidential 'drive-by' just now has to be quarantined for 14 days,' Phillips pointed out. 'They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity.' The CDC website explicitly states that COVID patients should stay at home except to get medical care. In their section advising healthcare workers, the CDC states: 'In general, transport and movement of a patient with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection outside of their room should be limited to medically essential purposes.' Other doctors took issue with Trump's medical team's rosy picture of his health. In particular, they were surprised at the suggestion that he could be discharged from Walter Reed on Monday and return to the White House. 'People can be doing OK, but it can get rocky very quickly,' said Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Health Security. The experts told the Washington Post that Trump's medical team has withheld key information about his condition, and that he was on a 'kitchen sink' regimen of monoclonal antibodies, the anti-viral remdesivir, and steroids. 'For someone sick enough to have required remdesivir and dexamethasone, I can't think of a situation in which a patient would be OK to leave on day three, even with the White House's medical capacity,' Robert Wachter, chairman of the University of California at San Francisco's department of medicine, told the paper. President Donald Trump on Sunday made a last-minute, surprise visit to his supporters outside Walter Reed Medical Center, briefing leaving his hospital room to thank the cheering loyalists. The president was in a suit, but no protective equipment beyond his face mask. In the front passenger seat was a person wearing a gown, face mask and face shield. It was unclear whether the driver was similarly protected. The president went into the hospital Friday evening after testing positive for the coronavirus. A second doctor, Jonathan Reiner, professor of medicine and surgery at George Washington University, echoed Dr Phillips' condemnation. 'By taking a joy ride outside Walter Reed the president is placing his Secret Service detail at grave risk,' he said. 'In the hospital when we go into close contact with a COVID patient we dress in full PPE: Gown, gloves, N95, eye protection, hat. This is the height of irresponsibility.' And Dr Craig Spencer, an ER doctor who survived Ebola and is currently director of global health in emergency medicine at Columbia University, was shocked at the president's 'joyride'. 'Moments after stating 'I learned a lot about COVID', the President takes a joyride in an enclosed space with presumably #COVID19 negative people, all while on experimental medications,' he said. NBC News' Peter Alexander said on Sunday night that he had asked why Melania Trump was not visiting her husband, and was told it was because she did not want anyone else to become infected. 'Reminder: A White House official, on Saturday, told me the First Lady would not be visiting Trump at Walter Reed because 'she has COVID and that would expose the agents who would drive her there,'' he tweeted. The White House said the president made a short trip and then returned to the presidential suite inside the hospital. 'President Trump took a short, last-minute motorcade ride to wave to his supporters outside and has now returned to the Presidential Suite inside Walter Reed,' White House deputy press secretary Judd Deere said in a statement. 'Appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the President and all those supporting it, including PPE. The movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do.' The White House press corps issued a statement, condemning the Trump administration for not keeping them informed of his whereabouts. They had not been warned that the president was about to leave the hospital, breaking the usual protocol of keeping the pool reporters informed. 'It is outrageous for the president to have left the hospital even briefly amid a health crisis without a protective pool present to ensure that the American people know where their president is and how he is doing,' the White House Correspondents' Association said in a statement. 'Now more than ever, the American public deserves independent coverage of the president so they can be reliably informed about his health.' A crowd Trump's supporters gathered outside the Bethesda, Maryland, hospital - and many were not wearing face masks. People wore 'Make America Great Again' paraphernalia, waved campaign signs and hoisted Americans flags. One woman waved a 'we [heart] u Mr. Trump sign' while another man waved a 'We [heart] Trump' sign. The president posted a video to his Twitter account shortly before his visit outside, indicating he was about to make the trip. He also said he's been visiting soldiers at the military hospital and has learned a lot about COVID, which has infected more than seven million Americans. He started his short remarks by thanking the medical personnel taking care of him and added he has 'gotten to meet some of the soldiers.' The president did not say what precautions were taken for his meetings. Trump supporters waved American flags and Make America Great Again campaign signs outside of Walter Reed hospital One supporter waved a 'we [heart] Trump' sign The crowds have gathered outside the hospital to cheer and shout their support to Trump While Trump is in hospital, empty chairs were put on display near the White House to represent the 200,000 people who have died of coronavirus in the United States, by far the highest tally in the world The White House released a photo of Trump on Sunday night taking part in a phone call with his Chief of Staff, Vice President Mike Pence and the Joint Chiefs from his conference room at Walter Reed 'I also think we're going to pay a little surprise to some of the great patriots,' he said, hinting to his outside visit. 'They've got Trump flags and they love our country so I'm not telling anybody but you but I'm about to make a little surprise visit so perhaps I'll get there before you get to see me.' He said he had learned a lot about the coronavirus since he was flown by helicopter to hospital on Friday. 'It's been a very interesting journey. I learned a lot about COVID. I learned by really going to school. This is the real school,' he said. 'In the meantime, we love the USA and we love what's happening. Thank you.' The president's doctors said Sunday that he could be discharged from Walter Reed as early as Monday. Trump's top physician said he was given a steroid and put on oxygen, as a treatment for COVID-19. 'Our plan for today is to have him to eat and drink, be up out of bed as much as possible, to be mobile,' Dr. Brian Garibaldi, one of the doctor's on Trump's team, said. 'And if he continues to look and feel as well as he does today, our hope is that we can plan for a discharge as early as tomorrow to the White House where he can continue his treatment course.' He also revealed that Trump would continue taking doses of Remdesivir, a broad-spectrum antiviral medication, and dexamethasone, a steroid, whether he remains at Walter Reed or is transferred to the White House. Pressed about the conflicting information he and the White House released the previous day, the president's top doctor, Navy Commander Sean Conley, acknowledged that he had tried to present a rosy description of of the president's condition. Physician to the President Dr. Sean Conley, a Navy Commander, was forced to explain during the briefing Sunday that there was some confusion over Trump's condition because Chief of Staff Mark Meadow's comments were 'misconstrued' WHAT IS DEXAMETHASONE? Oxford University researchers in June announced steroid drug dexamethasone which costs just over $3 for a course of treatment cut the risk of death by up to 35 per cent for infected patients on ventilators and by a fifth for anyone needing oxygen at any point. Following the news World Health Organization (WHO) bosses said they will update its Covid-19 treatment guidance to include dexamethasone. The WHO wrote: 'It was tested in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 in the United Kingdoms national clinical trial RECOVERY and was found to have benefits for critically ill patients. 'According to preliminary findings shared with WHO (and now available as a preprint), for patients on ventilators, the treatment was shown to reduce mortality by about one third, and for patients requiring only oxygen, mortality was cut by about one fifth.' It did not appear to help less ill patients. Researchers estimated that the drug would prevent one death for every eight patients treated while on breathing machines and one for every 25 patients on extra oxygen alone. The steroid drug is a type of anti-inflammatory medicine used to treat a wide-range of conditions. It is given via an injection or once-a-day tablet and is sold under the brand names Ozurdex and Baycadron. In coronavirus patients, the steroid reduces inflammation in the lungs triggered by an overreaction by the immune system. One in 10 symptomatic Covid-19 patients are thought to suffer from the nasty symptom, known as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS causes the immune system to become overactive and attack healthy cells in the lungs. This makes breathing difficult and the body eventually struggles to get enough oxygen to vital organs. Dexamethasone was first made in 1957 and was approved for medical use in 1961. The steroid is also used to treat conditions that cause inflammation, conditions related to immune system activity, and hormone deficiency. These include: allergic reactions rheumatoid arthritis psoriasis lupus eczema flare-ups of intestinal disease, such as ulcerative colitis multiple sclerosis pre-treatment for chemotherapy to reduce inflammation and side effects from cancer medications adrenal insufficiency (a condition where the adrenal glands dont produce enough hormones) Dexamethasone is known to cause a number of mild to moderate side effects, including vomiting, heartburn, anxiety, high blood pressure, muscle weakness and insomnia. Advertisement 'I was trying to reflect the upbeat attitude of the team, that the president, that his course of illness has had. Didn't want to give any information that might steer the course of illness in another direction,' Conley said. 'And in doing so, came off like we're trying to hide something, which wasn't necessarily true. The fact of the matter is that he's doing really well.' Yet medical experts on Sunday evening took issue with Conley and his team's rosy update - in particular with the suggestion that Trump could be discharged on Monday. Conley, a Navy Commander and physician to the president, revealed during the briefing on Sunday that Trump was treated with the steroid dexamethasone after a drop in oxygen levels on Saturday. Dexamethasone is recommended only in patients who are extremely ill, according to many guidelines, but a number of hospitals routinely give the drug to any patient who requires supplemental oxygen, if only for a few hours. It has not been shown to benefit those with milder forms of the disease. A recent study found it tends to reduce deaths from the virus among those with severe cases, but nearly a quarter of infected patients getting it with supplemental oxygen as Trump has still died. Steroids in high doses and over long periods of time also can lead to serious changes in mental status that include delirium, hallucinations and confusion. 'Over the course of his illness, the president has experienced two episodes of transient drops in his oxygen saturation. We debated the reasons for this and whether we'd even intervene,' he said. 'As a determination of the team, based predominantly on the timeline for the diagnosis, that we initiate dexamethasone.' Doctors told the New York Times they were puzzled by the drug's use. 'The dexamethasone is the most mystifying of the drugs we're seeing him being given at this point,' said Dr Thomas McGinn, physician-in-chief at Northwell Health, the largest health care provider in New York State. The drug is normally not used unless the patient's condition seems to be deteriorating, he added. 'Suddenly, they're throwing the kitchen sink at him,' Dr McGinn said. 'It raises the question: Is he sicker than we're hearing, or are they being overly aggressive because he is the president, in a way that could be potentially harmful?' Dr Esther Choo, a professor of emergency medicine at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, said of the doctors' statements on Sunday: 'This is no longer aspirationally positive. And it's much more than just an 'abundance of caution' kind of thing.' Some thought that the president may be directing his own care, and demanding intense treatment despite risks he may not fully understand - something which is termed V.I.P. syndrome. 'You think you're helping,' said Dr Celine Gounder, a clinical assistant professor of medicine and infectious diseases at the N.Y.U. Grossman School of Medicine. 'But this is really a data-free zone, and you just don't know that.' Asked whether CT scans showed any signs of pneumonia or lung damage, Conley replied: 'Yeah, so we're tracking all of that. There's some expected findings, but nothing of any major clinical concern.' He declined to elaborate. At another point, Sean Dooley, a pulmonary critical care doctor, said the president's 'cardiac, liver and kidney function demonstrates continued normal findings, or improving findings.' He did not disclose which of those had been subpar. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University's medical school, was asked by the Washington Post about the idea of sending Trump back to the White House on Monday. 'Absolutely not,' he said. 'I will bet dollars to doughnuts it's the president and his political aides who are talking about discharge, not his doctors.' All pointed out that the president was being given an unusual combination of three strong treatments, with a handful of supplements and an over-the-counter drug sprinkled in. That made his quick release even more improbable, they said. Several doctors expressed worry there is no data indicating how these treatments might react with each other, especially in an overweight 74-year-old man with a mild heart condition who is in the high risk group for severe coronavirus disease. Lewis Kaplan, a critical care doctor at the University of Pennsylvania and the Veteran's Administration, said this type of untested combination therapy is typically only applied as a desperate measure when a patient is seriously ill and probably in the intensive care unit. On the other hand, he told the Post, giving this cocktail to a sitting head of state as a preventive measure as a way to reduce the risk of a more severe course could be construed as 'reasonable.' 'And we just don't know which one reflects reality,' Kaplan said. How Mark Meadows infuriated Trump by telling reporters that his 'vitals are very concerning' in off-the-record health update Chief of Staff Mark Meadows' revelation to reporters that Donald Trump's 'vitals are very concerning' reportedly angered the president and prompted him to post an upbeat video update on his condition Saturday. The New York Times claimed that people close to the situation said that Trump was infuriated by the comments and acted to counteract the perception that he was very sick. The president uploaded the four-minute video to his Twitter page on Saturday night in which he said he was 'much better' and fighting coronavirus, as his physician gave a optimistic update on his symptoms. Yet earlier in the day, Meadows was caught asking to go off the record with White House reporters as an 'anonymous' source revealed the true extent of the president's condition. 'The president's vitals over the last 24 hours were very concerning and the next 48 hours will be critical in terms of his care. We're still not on a clear path to a full recovery,' Meadows told reporters on the initial condition that he not be identified. He was later named as the source of the quote. Meadows' comments came just after a White House team of doctors said that Trump's condition was improving and that he was already talking about returning to the White House. One doctor said Trump told them: 'I feel like I could walk out of here today.' Meadows did not clarify the discrepancy in his comments. A Trump adviser who spoke on condition of anonymity said the president was not happy to learn of Meadows' initial remarks, according to Reuters. Hours later, the president posted a video from the hospital where he is battling Covid-19, saying he was improving and would be 'back soon' - but acknowledging the crucial coming days would be 'the real test. Trump attempted to reassure the public that he was not suffering severe coronavirus symptoms and called his treatment 'miracles from God' as he worked to counteract Meadows' comments. 'I came here, wasn't feeling so well. I feel much better now,' he said from his business suite at Walter Reed military medical center. 'We're working hard to get me all the way back... I think I'll be back soon and I look forward to finishing up the campaign the way it was started.' Appearing relaxed in an open-collar blue suit and jacket, Trump acknowledged that there was uncertainty about the course of the disease, which can hit recovering patients hard with no warning. 'I'm starting to feel good. You don't know over the next period of a few days, I guess that's the real test, so we'll be seeing what happens over those next couple of days.' Several hours later, Deputy White House Press Secretary Judd Deere posted a picture showing Trump working into the night from the hospital. The video came after Meadows' earlier comments spread and led to concern about how ill the president is, despite the optimistic updates from his personal physician. Meadows quickly tried to step back his words as the news spread, telling Reuters shortly afterward that Trump was doing 'very well' and that doctors were in fact pleased with his vital signs. 'The president is doing very well. He is up and about and asking for documents to review. The doctors are very pleased with his vital signs. I have met with him on multiple occasions today on a variety of issues,' Meadows said. He made a third comment on the president's condition to Fox News on Saturday night in which the Chief of Staff confirmed that there had been a cause for concern when the president was hospitalized on Friday evening. The White House had said that Trump was traveling to Walter Reed Military Medical Center out of an 'abundance of caution' and would continue to work from they for a 'few days' as he underwent tests. 'Yesterday morning he was real concerned with that. He had a fever and his blood oxygen level had dropped rapidly,' Meadows said to Fox's Judge Jeanie. Yet, he added that Trump's condition had improved. 'He is doing extremely well. I am very, very optimistic based on the current result,' Meadows added. 'He's made unbelievable improvement from yesterday' Meadows continued after again saying the doctors were 'very concerned'. 'We are still not on a clear path to a full recovery,' he added. Advertisement Hydroxychloroquine - an anti-malaria drug which Trump promoted in his press conferences as warding off COVID-19, and then said he was taking - is not on the list of medications his doctors said Trump is taking at Walter Reed. Another treatment missing from Trump's regimen arsenal is a blood thinner which is given as a standard practice these days to any hospitalized patient with COVID-19 to reduce the risk of clots. In the spring, many doctors were surprised to find that microclots that appear in the lungs and heart appeared to be killing some patients.Doctors speculated the president may have declined the treatment after what happened to his younger brother, Robert, who died in August due to brain bleeds. He had been taking blood thinners. Conley on Sunday detailed the timeline of Trump's treatment and the decision Friday to move him to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center just hours after the president announced that he and first lady Melania Trump tested positive for coronavirus. 'Thursday night into Friday morning when I left the bedside, the president was doing well with only mild symptoms and his oxygen was in the high 90's. 'Late Friday morning when I returned to the bedside, president had a high fever and his oxygen level was transiently dipping below 94 per cent,' Conley said. 'Given these two developments, I was concerned for possible rapid progression of the illness,' he continued. 'I recommended the president try some supplemental oxygen.' Conley said Trump was 'very adamant that he didn't need it. Was not short of breath. He was tired, had the fever, and that was about it.' He said after a minute of oxygen, Trump's levels were back up above 95 per cent but said that he kept the president's on the measure for about an hour. Conley explained that the president's oxygen level did not dip into the 80's and reiterated that he was up and about shortly after the 'transient' episode. Meadows received backlash Saturday after it appeared his comments on Trump's condition contradicted others' assessments, including the president's. 'The president's vitals over the last 24 hours were very concerning and the next 48 hours will be critical in terms of his care. 'We're still not on a clear path to a full recovery,' Meadows told reporters anonymously and it was later revealed he was the source of the remarks. Meadows' comments came just after a White House team of doctors said that Trump's condition was improving and that he was already talking about returning to the White House. One doctor said Trump told them, 'I feel like I could walk out of here today.' In an update on Saturday, Conley wrote: 'This evening he completed his second dose of Remdesivir without complication. 'He remains fever-free and off supplemental oxygen with a saturation level between 96% and 98% all day. 'He spent most of the afternoon conducting business, and has been up and moving about the medical suite without difficulty. 'While not yet out of the woods, the team remains cautiously optimistic. 'The plan for tomorrow is to continue observation in between doses of remdesivir, closely monitoring his clinical status while fully supporting his conduct of Presidential duties.' Several hours later, Deputy White House Press Secretary Judd Deere posted a picture showing Trump working into the night from the hospital. The new comments from the president's medical team on Sunday comes as Trump's campaign advisers Stephen Miller and Steve Cortes claimed Sunday the president is eager to get back to campaigning even after Conley said Saturday he is not yet 'out of the woods.' Miller, the campaign's senior adviser, said he spoke to Trump recently and said the president told him 'he's going to defeat this virus and our campaign is going to defeat this virus.' 'Once he gets out of the hospital, he's ready to get back to the campaign trail,' Miller told NBC's Chuck Todd during an interview on 'Meet the Press' Sunday morning. 'He sounded pretty energetic.' 'But he said something else that I thought that was important too,' Miller said, 'and that was to be careful, and that was to remind folks to wash their hands, use hand sanitizer, make sure that if you can't socially distance, distance to wear a mask. And I thought that was a pretty important message to send and a reminder to the rest of the country.' Cortes, another senior campaign adviser, reiterated the president's fitness during an interview with Chris Wallace on 'Fox News Sunday.' 'He's doing well,' Cortes attested. 'We spoke to the president yesterday, we meaning senior campaign staff,' Cortes said. 'He was as upbeat and assertive as he's ever been.' He added: 'This president is going to recover, we are highly confident of that.' Oppo has just revealed the A73 in Tunisia, listing it on its website without much in terms of a formal announcement. The Oppo A73 is a rebranded variant of the Oppo F17, which went on sale in India in September. But if you dig a bit in our database you'll find an Oppo A73 from 2017, which was a localized variant of the Oppo F5 Youth, both of which have no bearing on the Oppo A73 from today. The Oppo A73 for Tunisia packs a 6.44-inch Super AMOLED of 1080x2400px resolution, with an embedded optical fingerprint scanner and a teardrop notch for the 16MP selfie camera. There's a Snapdragon 662 chipset with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of expandable built-in storage. The 4,015mAh battery supports 30W VOOC 4.0 fast charging. The phone comes in a choice of Navy Blue and Classic Silver. On the rear the Oppo A73 has four sensors - a 16MP f/2.2 main camera, 8MP f/2.2 ultrawide unit and two 2MP depth sensors. Oppo Tunisia hasn't yet disclosed the price and availability details of the A73, but it should occupy a similar segment as the Oppo F17 in India - INR 17,990 or $245/205, converted. Source | Via Baltimore courts held the first jury trial Monday during the coronavirus pandemic, even as one city judge was in quarantine after testing positive for the virus. A judge of the Baltimore Circuit Court received positive tests results Monday morning, according to an email sent to courthouse staff from the chambers of Judge Audrey Carrion, chief of the Baltimore Circuit Court. Carrion notified staff the sick judge has been in quarantine since last Tuesday, and cleaning crews were sanitizing the judges courtroom, chambers and elevator in the Elijah E. Cummings Courthouse. Its just the latest coronavirus case to surface in Baltimore Circuit Court. Late last month, a clerk and attorney who attended a pretrial conference came down with the virus. In early September, an employee of the sheriffs office who works at the courthouse contracted the virus. Maryland judges have been working for months to develop protocols to resume jury trials during the pandemic. Monday brought the first jury trial in six months: a 37-year-old Baltimore man charged with drugs and illegal guns. The big, ceremonial courtroom on the 4th floor of the Clarence M. Mitchell Jr. Courthouse had been outfitted with clear, plastic dividers to separate each seat of the jury box. Also, the judge, clerks and attorneys sat surrounded by the dividers. When entering, jurors were screened with questions and a device that scanned for body temperate. Were going to see how this all works, Circuit Judge Philip Jackson told the attorneys. Were trying to protect everybodys health as best we can. Jackson acknowledged that it might be difficult to hear him through his mask and the dividers. He urged the attorneys to speak up if they had any trouble. The case began with a different process to select the jury. Usually, a jury pool with 50 or more people fill the courtroom. Each man or woman steps up to answer questions while huddled at the bench with the judge and attorneys. Story continues On Monday, Jackson called prospective jurors into the courtroom one by one. Each man or woman spoke at a podium stationed in the middle of the room. Cleaning crews waited in the hallway. Between each juror, they ducked in and sanitized the podium. The process moved much more slowly. Further, the jurors faced new questions. Each was asked if he or she had any underlying medical condition, or if they had strong feelings about serving on a jury during a pandemic. Judges have said this questioning process, known as voir dire, might now consume many days. Baltimore Circuit Court scheduled three civil jury trials to begin Tuesday. The next two criminal trial are scheduled for October 13 and 26. Judges also plan to seat jurors at the War Memorial downtown as they ramp up trials. They want to try three to four criminal cases a month, far less than the average of 39 a month last year. 2020 The Baltimore Sun Visit The Baltimore Sun at www.baltimoresun.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Ahead of a planned opposition rally, Pakistan government on Monday registered a sedition case against former premier Nawaz Sharif, daughter Maryam and Pakistan occupied Kashmir premier Raja Mohammad Farooq Ahmed Khan. Separately, a court in Islamabad charged former president Asif Ali Zardari in two corruption cases. The Lahore police filed a first information report (FIR) against Sharif, Maryam and former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi for conspiring against the state and its institutions a day after Sharifs son-in-law Capt (retd) Muhammad Safdar was booked under sedition charges for provoking the people against the state and its institutions. The FIR also named three retired generals of the Pakistan Army. Journalist Hamid Mir tweeted on Monday that Prime Minister Imran Khan always claimed to be an ambassador of Kashmiris but look at this FIR registered by Punjab police, they booked elected PM of AJK @farooq_pm under treason charges along with @NawazSharifMNS and three retired Lt Generals of Pak Army Face. The FIR alleged that Sharif had conspired against Pakistans prestigious institutions by making provocative speeches from London, on a complaint registered by a citizen, Badar Rasheed. It alleged that in the speeches made on September 20 and October 1, the former premier supported the policies of India so that Pakistan would continue to remain on the Financial Action Task Forces (FATF) grey list over lack of compliance on money laundering and terror financing. The complainant said that the main purpose of Sharifs speeches was to isolate Pakistan in front of the international community and to declare it a rogue state. He added that Sharif is trying to turn the people against the democratically elected government of Imran Khan. The aim of the speeches was also to divert attention from human rights violations in Kashmir to benefit Sharifs friend Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the complainant alleged. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Michael Nienaber (Reuters) Berlin, Germany Mon, October 5, 2020 11:11 475 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c492136a 2 Business World-Bank,debt,crisis,cancellation,poor-country,poverty,COVID-19 Free The COVID-19 pandemic could trigger a debt crisis in some countries, so investors must be ready for granting some form of relief that could also include debt cancellation, World Bank President David Malpass was quoted as saying on Sunday. It is evident that some countries are unable to repay the debt they have taken on. We must therefore also reduce the debt level. This can be called debt relief or cancellation, Malpass told Handelsblatt business daily in an interview. It is important that the amount of debt is reduced by restructuring, Malpass added. He pointed to similar steps in previous financial crises such as in Latin America and the so-called HIPC initiative for highly indebted countries in the 1990s. Rich countries last month backed an extension of the G20s Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI), approved in April to help developing nations survive the coronavirus pandemic, which has seen 43 of a potential 73 eligible countries defer US$5 billion in official sector debt payments. Amid warnings the pandemic could push 100 million people into extreme poverty, Malpass renewed his call for private banks and investment funds to get involved too. These investors are not doing enough and I am disappointed with them. Also, some of the major Chinese lenders did not get enough involved. The effect of the aid measures is therefore less than it could be, the World Bank head said. Malpass warned that the pandemic could trigger another debt crisis as some developing countries had already entered a downward spiral of weaker growth and financial trouble. The enormous budget deficits and debt payments are overwhelming these economies. In addition, the banks there are getting into difficulties due to bad loans, Malpass added. Far-right activists, Neo-Nazis and anti-vaccine conspiracy theorists were among the thousands who joined a protest against coronavirus restrictions in Germany over the weekend. The demonstration at Lake Constance in the south of the country, close to the Austrian border, also attracted thousands of counter-protesters, although police said the there had not been any violence. Organisers of the rally, who opposed social distancing measures imposed to try and restrict the spread of Covid-19, had hoped to gather as many as 200,000 demonstrators to form a human chain around the lake. But the police said they had counted only about 11,000 people among the two protests. The counter-protesters also formed a peace chain around part of the lake. Germanys far-right has been leading some of the backlash to coronavirus lockdown measures for months, which has prompted local authorities in the area to ban the imperial-era Reichsflagge. The old flag used by the German Empire until 1919 has been co-opted as a symbol by Neo-Nazis, as the swastika flag has long already been proscribed. It was brandished during an earlier anti-lockdown protest outside the German parliament in Berlin in August and several of the Lake Constance demonstrators were also waving the red, white and black standard. Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty Show all 10 1 /10 Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty A man wearing a face mask crosses a road in Wuhan, the epicentre of the novel coronavirus outbreak. Reuters Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty A view of the empty entrance to the UniversitA Cattolica (Catholic University) in Milan, northern Italy, on 24 February, 2020. EPA Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty Empty streets in Daegu, South Korea, on 23 February, 2020. EPA Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty Empty streets in Daegu, South Korea, on 23 February 2020. EPA Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty A lone sanitation worker sits near the closed Hankou Railway Station in Wuhan, Hubei province, China, on February 24, 2020. Reuters Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty A view of a deserted street in Codogno, northern Italy, on February 23, 2020. EPA Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty Italian police officers set a road block in Codogno, Northern Italy, on Monday, Feb. 24, 2020. AP Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty A supermarket closed in Codogno, one the northern Italian towns placed under lockdown, on February 23, 2020. EPA Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty A lone cyclist wearing sanitary masks pedals in the center of Codogno, Northern Italy. LaPresse via AP Coronavirus: Streets around world left empty An empty road at the entrance of the small Italian town of Codogno on February 23, 2020. AFP via Getty Others held signs declared Masks are child abuse and Freedom!, while many of the counter-protesters waved rainbow and peace flags. In comparison to most countries in Europe, Germany has so far weathered the pandemic well: about 9,500 of its citizens have died from the virus, compared with 42,000 in Britain. Under the countrys current lockdown restrictions, people must wear masks in shops and on public transport or face a 50 fine, private gatherings are capped at 25 people and public ones at 50. Regions which are seeing cases rise fastest are also imposing stricter rules. The Cabinet will meet today to discuss the shocking recommendations of NPHET to send the country back to full lockdown in response to rising Covid-19 cases. NPHET with Tony Holohan back at the helm as Chief Medical Officer recommended Ireland return to Level 5 lockdown in a letter to the government on Sunday. On Thursday, a letter from NPHET said there was no need to move to Level 3. However, they are now recommending the country move from Level 2 (Level 3 in the cases of Dublin and Donegal) to Level 5 of restrictions in the Living With Covid-19 plan. EXPLAINER: What are the LEVEL 5 restrictions in Ireland's new 'Living with Covid-19' plan? This would impose extremely strict restrictions on people, similar to those imposed in March. Cabinet will meet with Tony Holohan today to discuss the latest recommendations. Level 5 would mean most non-essential businesses closing and people restricted to travelling within 5km of their homes, except for essential work and care reasons. Schools and creches would remain open, according to the pre-agreed government plan for such a move. The Department of Health was notified of 364 more cases of Covid-19 and no new deaths on Sunday after more than 600 cases on Saturday. 3,000 cases were diagnosed in the Republic of Ireland this week. There has now been a total of 38,032 confirmed cases in Ireland and 1,810 deaths. It is understood there is considerable resistance in the Dail to a move to Level 5 with fears over the impact it would have on business and the wider economy. The pandemic has thus far cost the government over 9 billion in supports and measures to stem the impact and reduce employment deficits. Serological antibody immunoassays are one of the essential tools to combat severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. In a new study, Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies are detected in a large cohort, lasting up to 140 days. The researchers propose an alternative to reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) positive status as a standard for assessing SARS-CoV-2 antibody assays and show robust performance metrics for the AbC-19 rapid test. Image Credit: Abingdon Health The COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019), caused by SARS-COV-2 the virus, has caused over 1 million deaths from over 35 million confirmed cases of infection globally over a short period (10 months). While the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has necessitated rapid translation of knowledge from lab to clinic, an unprecedented interest has gained in serological immunoassays to detect antibodies to this novel virus. The dynamics of the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 is not yet clearly understood. It is essential to detect SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies accurately. This is essential for building biobanks of convalescent sera for treatment, monitoring immune response to infection, and assessing responses to vaccination programs. In their recent medRxiv* paper, Louise J Robertson et al. report the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG up to 140 days (20 weeks) post-infection, across three antibody immunoassays and propose a standard for assessing SARS-CoV-2 antibody assays. The authors use a pseudo gold standard cohort (n=348 positive, n=510 negative) to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the three commercial immunoassays (EuroImmun; Sens. 98.9% [97.7-99.7%]; Spec. 99.2% [98.4-99.8%]; Roche; Sens. 99.4% [98.6-100%]; Spec. (96.7% [95.1-98.2%]; Abbott; Sens. 86.8% [83.1-90.2%]; Spec. (99.2% [98.4-99.8%]). The UK-RTC AbC-19 lateral flow immunoassay shows a sensitivity of 97.70% (95.72%-99.34%) and specificity of 100% (100.00-100.00%). The study cohort included 880 people in Northern Ireland. There is no clear gold standard for reference to assess SARS-CoV-2 immunoassays. RT-PCR is used as a reference standard; however, it is limited by a short temporal window for a positive diagnosis and exhibits potential for false-negative results. With lockdown measures and flattening the curve strategies, many cases were largely unconfirmed or undetected. The commercial serology immunoassays are laboratory-based and measure IgG antibody levels in plasma or serum. Alternatively, lateral flow immunoassays (LFIAs), requiring a finger-prick blood sample, can be used at home or POC (point-of-care). Currently, in the UK, a limited number of laboratory-based chemiluminescence immunoassays are approved, including the Roche Elecsys AntiSARS-CoV-2 IgG/IgA/IgM against the SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid antigenic region (Roche Diagnostics, Basel, Switzerland) and the Abbott SARS-CoV-2 IgG assay against the same antigenic region (Abbott Diagnostics, Abbott Park, IL, USA). The authors use these tests to detect antibodies generated against the S1 domain of the spike antigenic protein of SARS-CoV-2, to characterize a large number (880) of pre-pandemic and pandemic COVID-19 blood samples from within Northern Ireland. IgG antibodies to both the spike protein and nucleocapsid protein are persistent even after 140 days after RT PCR positive status; the authors report a statistically significant decline over time, but the levels remain detectable at 140 days. The authors call for further studies on large cohorts with sequential antibody immunoassays performed on symptomatic and non-symptomatic individuals as well as those with mild and severe COVID-19. To assess sensitivity and specificity, they developed a pseudo-gold-standard against which to analyze assays, which does not rely on a single test as reference. They report performance metrics for the UK-RTC AbC-19 rapid lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) against a characterized panel of 304 positives established using the pseudo gold standard system and 350 negative samples. Their results show a strong correlation between all three immunoassays, with shortcomings in the Abbott system, suggesting an overestimated positive cut-off. Furthermore, they also present results of independent validation of the UK-RTC AbC-19 POC LFIA against a cohort of 304 known positives according to this pseudo-gold-standard system and 350 known negative samples for IgG to SARS-CoV-2. It is crucial to consider the prevalence when interpreting an assays sensitivity and specificity in a low prevalence scenario. Even slightly lowered performance metrics can result in large numbers of false-negative and false-positive results. The authors observe the high sensitivity of the AbC-19 LFIA - in which case, false-positives are unlikely, though false negatives may occur. This will underestimate true prevalence in a study. For individuals, it may cause anxiety. However, a positive antibody test will help arrest infection spread. In conclusion, the researchers report the longevity of antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the plasma of a large cohort of individuals - lasting up to 140 days; and they have developed a pseudo gold standard reference cohort against which to assess immunoassay performance. How to use the AbC-19 COVID-19 rapid antibody test. Now in boxes of 25 Play *Important Notice medRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information. Joe Biden will be at the next debate, his campaign said on Sunday - and hopes Donald Trump is too. On Sunday morning Biden's deputy campaign manager said he will participate in the next presidential debate on October 15 provided the 'necessary' safety precautions are in place. Kate Bedingfield told ABC News's This Week that Biden will 'be there' as long as Trump is well enough to participate, and the Commission on Presidential Debates implements safety measures. 'We hope that they're going to put in place every adjustment necessary to ensure that it's fully safe,' she said. Biden's campaign manager said on Sunday that Biden will 'be there' at the next debate Biden, pictured on Saturday leaving Mass in Wilmington, Delaware, tested negative Sunday 'And, obviously, we send President Trump our best. 'We hope that he is well and able to debate. If he is, Joe Biden will certainly be there.' Bedingfield said that Biden would participate in the debate 'assuming that the commission puts in place the necessary requirements to ensure that everybody is safe, which is first and foremost the most important thing.' 'Joe Biden certainly looks forward to the opportunity to debate Donald Trump, and we hope that he will be well and able to do that,' she said. The 77-year-old again tested negative for COVID-19 on Sunday. He was tested twice on Friday - the day Trump's COVID diagnosis was confirmed - and again on Sunday. Sunday's test was a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, his campaign said, according to a press pool report. 'Vice President Biden underwent PCR testing for COVID-19 today and COVID-19 was not detected,' the campaign said. Biden speaks during a campaign event at United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 951 in Grand Rapids, Michigan on Friday, after Trump's infection was confirmed Biden shared a debate stage with Trump last Tuesday in Cleveland, leading to fears that he too could have become infected. At least 11 people involved in the setting up and planning of the first presidential debate have since tested positive for the virus. Dr Eric Feigl-Ding, an epidemiologist and health economist, said: 'Good. Now keep testing couple more days to be sure.' He attached a timeline for infection to show in tests, showing that Biden was not entirely clear yet, but was moving in the right direction. On Saturday night, after two days of refusing to provide details about Mr. Biden's testing procedures, the campaign committed to releasing the results of all of his tests. Image: Armenian Defense Ministry release via AP The fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces continued on Sunday over the separatist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, with Azerbaijan's second-largest city coming under attack. Azerbaijani officials said Sunday that Armenian forces attacked Ganja, the country's second largest city. Hikmet Hajiyev, an aide to the Azerbaijani president, tweeted a video depicting damaged buildings, and called it the result of Armenia's massive missile attacks against dense residential areas" in Ganja. It wasn't immediately possible to verify the authenticity of the video. Hajiyev said in another tweet that attacks on Ganja and other areas in Azerbaijan were launched from territory of Armenia. Armenia's Defense Ministry said that no fire of any kind is being opened from the territory of Armenia in Azerbaijan's direction. But Nagorno-Karabakh's leader, Arayik Harutyunyan, confirmed on Facebook he ordered rocket attacks to neutralize military objects in Ganja. His spokesman, Vahram Poghosyan, said the territory's army destroyed a military airport in Ganja, a claim Azerbaijani officials denied. The attack on the city killed one civilian and left four others wounded, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry tweeted. Harutyunyan said he ordered his forces to stop the attacks on Ganja to avoid civilian casualties. Nagorno-Karabakh's leader added that proportionate and crushing strikes targeting the opponent's forces would continue, if Azerbaijan fails to draw appropriate lessons. The fighting, which broke out on Septembr 27 and has continued for eight straight days, is the biggest escalation in years in the decades-long dispute over Nagorno-Karabakh. The region lies within Azerbaijan, but is controlled by local ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia. Both sides said the hostilities have spread beyond the breakaway territory and accused each other of attacking areas outside Nagorno-Karabakh. Ganja, with a population of more than 330,000, is located roughly 100 kilometers (about 60 miles) north of Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh's capital. Opening fire on the territory of Azerbaijan from the territory of Armenia is clearly provocative and expands the zone of hostilities, Azerbaijani Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov said in a statement Sunday. As the fighting resumed Sunday morning, Armenian officials accused Azerbaijan of carrying out strikes on Stepanakert and targeting the civilian population there. Nagorno-Karabakh's leader Harutyunyan said that in response, his forces would target military facilities permanently located in major cities of Azerbaijan. In a statement issued later on Sunday, Azerbaijan's Defense Ministry rejected accusations of targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. Nagorno-Karabakh officials have said nearly 200 servicemen on their side have died so far. Azerbaijani authorities haven't given details on their military casualties, but said 22 civilians were killed and 74 others were wounded. Nagorno-Karabakh was a designated autonomous region within Azerbaijan during the Soviet era. It claimed independence from Azerbaijan in 1991, about three months before the Soviet Union's collapse. A full-scale war that broke out in 1992 killed an estimated 30,000 people. By the time the war ended in 1994, Armenian forces not only held Nagorno-Karabakh itself but substantial areas outside the territory's formal borders, including Madagiz, the village Azerbaijan claimed to have taken on Saturday along with several others. This week's fighting has prompted calls for a cease-fire from around the world. On Thursday, leaders of Russia, France and the United States co-chairs of the so-called Minsk Group, which was set up by the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe in 1992 to resolve the conflict issued a joint statement calling for an immediate cease-fire and resuming substantive negotiations ... under the auspices of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs. Azerbaijani President Ilkham Aliyev said that Armenia's withdrawal from Nagorno-Karabakh is the sole condition to end the fighting. Armenian officials allege that Turkey is involved in the conflict and is sending fighters from Syria to the region. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said earlier this week that a cease-fire can be established only if Turkey is removed from the South Caucasus. Ankara has denied sending arms or foreign fighters, while publicly siding with Azerbaijan in the dispute. On Sunday, Turkey's Foreign Ministry condemned the attack on Ganja, saying it was proof of Armenia's disregard for the law. Ankara accused Armenia of attacking civilian residential areas, and claimed that Armenia could commit crimes against humanity. Armenia is the biggest barrier to peace and stability in the region, the ministry said. HALIFAX - A second candidate has jumped into the race to succeed Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil as provincial Liberal leader and premier, ensuring a contest ahead of the partys deadline for entrants. Iain Rankin, who represents the Halifax-area riding of Timberlea-Prospect, officially launched his campaign on Monday after resigning as minister of lands and forestry. The 37-year-old joins Labi Kousoulis, the former minister of labour and advanced education, who became the first candidate to declare last week. In a news release, Rankin said he wants to renew his party and lead the provinces economic recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Leadership is about listening, said Rankin. Its about learning from past successes and mistakes. It is about having the courage to lead when the future is uncertain. Rankin, who also formerly served as minister of environment, was first elected to the legislature in 2013 and was re-elected in 2017. He said his campaign platform would focus on six priorities: a strong economic recovery from COVID-19, modernized health care, bold climate action, empowerment through education, smart investments in infrastructure, and social and racial justice. I look forward to talking to Nova Scotians across the province to hear about what matters most to them, because its not always about what you know, its about how much you are willing to learn, Rankin said. Candidates have until Friday to enter the race, with a new leader set to be chosen Feb. 6. McNeil announced his resignation suddenly in August, saying it was time for him to leave politics. Under campaign rules, candidates must pay a $60,000 fee to enter the race, of which $10,000 is potentially refundable. The refundable portion is a compliance fee to ensure all candidates follow the rules. They also wont be allowed to incur campaign expenses totalling more than $350,000. The party will use a preferential ballot system to elect its next leader. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020 Read more about: John McAfee was arrested in Spain on Monday after federal prosecutors unsealed an indictment against the creator of the eponymous anti-virus software over charges that he evaded taxes and willfully failed to file tax returns. The US Justice Department announced the charges shortly after the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) revealed it had brought civil charges against McAfee, 75, alleging that he made over $23.1million in undisclosed compensation from recommending seven cryptocurrency offerings on Twitter that were materially false and misleading. The indictment, filed under seal in June, was unsealed following his arrest in Spain where the United States is seeking to extradite him. John McAfee was arrested in Spain on Monday after federal prosecutors unsealed an indictment against the creator of the eponymous anti-virus software over charges that he evaded taxes and willfully failed to file tax returns The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) revealed it had brought civil charges against McAfee, alleging that he made over $23.1million in undisclosed compensation from recommending seven cryptocurrency offerings on Twitter that were false and misleading Despite this income, the Justice Department said he failed to file any tax returns from 2014 to 2018 He is alleged to have earned millions in income from promoting cryptocurrencies, as well as through consulting work, speaking engagements, and selling the rights to his life story for a documentary. Despite this income, the Justice Department said he failed to file any tax returns from 2014 to 2018. According to the court papers, McAfee allegedly registered a number of purchases under someone elses name, including a yacht, car and property that he bought, in a bid to avoid paying taxes. The SEC has alleged that from at least November 2017 through February 2018, McAfee recommended cryptocurrencies he was paid to promote, while falsely denying such payments. 'McAfee leveraged his fame to make more than $23.1million in undisclosed compensation' by recommending at least seven initial coin offerings or ICOs to his Twitter followers, the SEC said. McAfee's recommendations were 'materially false and misleading,' in that he tried to sell 'virtually worthless' cryptocurrency tokens by encouraging investors to buy the securities without disclosing his own holdings, the SEC alleged. According to the court papers, McAfee allegedly registered a number of purchases under someone elses name, including a yacht (pictured), car and property that he bought, in a bid to avoid paying taxes The SEC has alleged that from at least November 2017 through February 2018, McAfee recommended cryptocurrencies he was paid to promote, while falsely denying such payments. McAfee is seen enjoying a pool day at a property The SEC is seeking to impose on McAfee (pictured) a civil penalty as well as disgorgement of ill-gotten gains, with interest The SEC is seeking to impose on McAfee a civil penalty as well as disgorgement of ill-gotten gains, with interest. The agency also wants to ban him permanently from serving as an officer or director of any listed company or any company that files reports to the agency. The SEC is also pursuing charges against Jimmy Gale Watson Jr, a bodyguard to McAfee, on charges he aided and abetted the sale of the digital currencies, among other allegations. 'Potential investors in digital asset securities are entitled to know if promoters were compensated by the issuers of those securities,' said Kristina Littman, the SEC's cyber unit chief. 'McAfee, assisted by Watson, allegedly leveraged his fame to deceptively tout numerous digital asset securities to his followers without informing investors of his role as a paid promoter.' If convicted of all charges, McAfee could face up to 30 years in prison. McAfee was released from detention in the Dominican Republic in July 2019 after he and five others were suspected of traveling on a yacht carrying high-caliber weapons, ammunition and military-style gear, officials in the Caribbean Island said at the time. Kilimanjaro Tanzanite Safaris DMC is a reputable local Tour Operator in Tanzania and has best TripAdvisor Reviews. Now, offers Kilimanjaro climbing discount tour offers (TRAVPR.COM) ARUSHA - October 5th, 2020 - Mount Kilimanjaro climbing discount tour offers are new promotional adventures provided due to the lockdown of coronavirus economic circumstances. Many traveler's abilities to pay for vacation travel are reduced due to the corona Pandemic Lockdown. That is the reason why Kilimanjaro Tanzanite Safaris DMC comes with a solution for affordable adventures like budget Kilimanjaro travel deals. Most important is that, this offer is provided by trustworthy company with Best travel reviews at TripAdvisor. Kilimanjaro trekking adventures with discount promotional offers are on the Machame route 6 days and Machame 7 days. Machame route is the best choice among other Kilimanjaro trails because it has scenic beauty. Climbing the Mount Kilimanjaro trip through Machame route is the door to see many varied plants, wildlife (black & white colobus monkeys, Bushbaby, birds, etc), volcanic, and snow features. The advantages of choosing a Kilimanjaro trek through the Machame route are that has the best chance for acclimatization and has high success rates to the summit. Accommodation is on tented camps on each day/night. Never, the less. Machame route is most affordable than Lemosho, which is the number one best Kilimanjaro route. Trekking Kilimanjaro with an extra day to acclimatize is the guarantee to add more success rate summit. Most people who chose 7 days Machame did climb comfortably and arrived at the Uhuru summit on Kibo peak very well. Between Barranco and Karanga there is hiking up and down, a great section to acclimatize. It is the best-suited trip for first-time climbers/beginner hikers ### A group of climbers including a Bahrain prince has reportedly completed the first summit of a Nepal Himalayan peak amid a ban on tourists due to coronavirus pandemic. According to a climbing company Seven Summit Treks, the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) was in dialogue with Nepal to discuss guiding a team of Royal Guard soldiers to the summit of the highest mountain in the world. The team, which includes members of Bahrain Royal Guard, has reportedly climbed the 6,119-metre Lobuche East, one of the two additional climbs to prepare themselves for the Mount Everest expedition. The team arrived in mid-September and was quarantined in Kathmandu for a week, under the COVID-19 prevention guidelines. The identity of the royal climber has not been disclosed yet. According to Seven Summit Treks, the initial climb will give the team the climbing skills required to progress on to the higher peaks in Nepal. The team will now prepare to climb Mount Manaslu which stands at 8,156 metres above sea level. They will develop further skills by climbing above 8,000 metres, commonly known as the death zone which requires the use of a supplemental oxygen system. The team of @BahrainEverest successful climbed Mt. Lobuche 6119m this morning 8:50AM. This is the first ascent of 2020 in Nepal, due to COVID -19, no mountaineering activities has been made. @NBH_MO @nepalmountains @kpsharmaoli @PradeepgyawaliK @MofaNepal @yogesbhattarai pic.twitter.com/JzVJHYIcG3 Seven Summit Treks (@sst8848) October 3, 2020 Read: India's Light Utility Helicopter Completes Hot And High Altitude Trials In Himalayas Read: China Cannot Threaten Countries And Bully Them In The Himalayas: US Government Mount Everest attempt next year After the successful climbing of the first two mountains, the team will then make its bid to climb Mount Everest in April / May 2021. The trekking company had said in a statement that the team was put through a rigorous assessment of physical fitness as well as mental robustness. The assessment was reportedly designed to ensure that each team member is capable of withstanding the extreme conditions that they will be exposed to in the Himalayas. It is an immense pleasure to learn that...the Royal Guard team is donating edibles to the Sherpas through Seven Summit Treks. I believe this humane gesture of friendship and kindness bestowed upon the needy ones during such difficult and unprecedented time will be long cherished by the recipients, the Nepalese Embassy had said in a statement. Read: Himalayan States Offer Unexplored Potential For Post-COVID Resurgence: Jitendra Singh Read: India, Bahrain Discuss Deepening Bilateral Cooperation In Financial, Business Domains Dr. Sean Conley, physician to President Donald Trump (C), and other doctors, walk out to talk with reporters at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, in Bethesda, Md., on Oct. 5, 2020. (Evan Vucci/AP Photo) White House Doctor Says Trumps Health Improving: Hes Back White House physician Dr. Sean P. Conley said that President Donald Trumps health has continued to improve over the past 24 hours, days after he was first diagnosed with COVID-19. He said its been 72 hours since his last fever, his oxygen levels and breathing are all normal, and he had a recent temperature of 98.1 degrees F. Hes back, Conley said, pointing to Trumps activity in recent days and hours. The president has been a phenomenal patient since he has been here, Conley said. He has never pushed us beyond safe and reasonable practice, Conley said. As a result, doctors said that he will be given another dose of Remdesivir and is cleared to go home to the White House. Conley said his condition supports a safe return home, where hell be surrounded by world-class medical care. About 30 minutes before the update, Trump wrote that he is leaving Walter Reed hospital, located in Maryland, and is returning to the White House later on Monday. Every day a patient stays in the hospital is a risk to themselves, Conley said, adding that doctors try to get a patient out of the hospital as soon as possible. President Donald Trump leaves the White House for Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington on Oct. 2, 2020. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images) Doctors said that he is still on the medication dexamethasone, which is a steroid that is sometimes used to treat patients with more serious cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus. The president has been surrounded by medical and security staff wearing full levels of PPE for several days, Conley said, responding to a question from a reporter about why Trump was allowed to travel in an SUV and wave at supporters while wearing a mask. Its in line with everything weve been doing upstairs for the last several days, Conley said. On Twitter, the president made the announcement that he will head back to the White House later in the day. I will be leaving the great Walter Reed Medical Center today at 6:30 P.M. Feeling really good! the president said in a statement. Dont be afraid of Covid. Dont let it dominate your life. We have developed, under the Trump Administration, some really great drugs & knowledge. I feel better than I did 20 years ago! On Sunday, Trump told viewers in a video that he learned a lot about COVID and learned it by really going to school, without elaborating. It is unclear how long Trump will remain in isolation at the White House. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those with mild to moderate symptoms can be contagious and should isolate for at least 10 days. The Associated Press contributed to this report. NEW DELHI: The Congress is expected to finalise the first list of its candidates for the Bihar Assembly election 2020 on Monday (October 5) at the virtual meeting of the party's central election committee. The central election committee (CEC) headed by party chief Sonia Gandhi is likely to meet on Monday to finalise some of the candidates that the screening panel will recommend. The Congress Screening Committee on Bihar met in the national capital on Sunday and is learnt to have discussed the names of probable candidates for the upcoming elections in the state. The meeting of the screening panel, headed by Avinash Pande, was attended by Congress in-charge for Bihar affairs Shakti Sinh Gohil, Bihar Congress chief Madan Mohan Jha and CLP leader Sadanand Singh among others. On Saturday, Congress sealed the seat-sharing deal with the RJD for the upcoming assembly polls under which the grand-old party will contest on 70 of the total 243 seats. RJD, on the other hand, will fight on 144 seats; and the left parties as part of the opposition mahagathbandhan or grand alliance will contest 29 seats. In the 2010 Bihar Assembly Election, Congress had contested on all 243 seats but managed to capture only 4. In 2015 election, Congress, who was part of the Bihar Grand Alliance, contested on 41 seats out of which it won 27. The Bihar Assembly election 2020 will be held in three phases on October 28, November 3 and November 7, and the counting of votes will take place on November 10. The nomination process for the first phase, under which 71 of the total 243 seats will go to polls, began from October 1 and will end on October 8. Live TV In one of the biggest land deals in the country this year, Mapletree Investments of Singapore has bought a 7-acre land parcel in the Vikhroli area of Mumbai for Rs 525 crore, said people in the know. The Kanakia group, from which Mapletree did the purchase, had bought the plot from India Tube Mills and Metal (ITM) Industries for Rs 363 crore in 2018. The price paid by Mapletree is fair, given that land prices in Vikhroli hover in the region Rs 50-55 crore an acre, consultants said. Though the acquisition price comes to around Rs 75 crore per acre, the value is fully ... LOUISVILLE, Ky. - They'd already spent a full night - from dusk until dawn - defending a Shell gas station, standing behind concrete barriers at each street entrance with fatigues on and AR-15s at the ready. But when the action finally arrived after a grand jury declined to indict the police officers involved in Breonna Taylor's death, the armed men were caught largely unprepared, still strapping into body armor in a hotel parking lot. More than 100 protesters - some wearing all black and carrying pistols - marched up to the approximately 20 people who had gathered Thursday evening awaiting instructions from the Oath Keepers, a heavily armed civilian group that has guarded private businesses during racial justice demonstrations this year. The man leading the protesters, Chris Will, 34, criticized the people in fatigues for showing up to defend property but not the life of the 26-year-old Black woman who was killed by Louisville police in her apartment in March. "Why didn't every single one of you motherf---ers put this s--- on to come help Breonna Taylor when they killed her?" Will asked the armed men, pointing at their body armor. Oath Keepers leaders urged members not to respond; escalating tensions with demonstrators would only feed public perception that they were the problem, not the solution. Oath Keepers is one of numerous vigilante groups that have flocked to cities where police killings and protests have sometimes been followed by property damage and violence. Its members travel from across the country equipped with long guns and protective gear to stand in plain view of demonstrators or loom over them from the edges of rooftops, unauthorized - and frequently unquestioned - by law enforcement. Founder Stewart Rhodes refuses to say how many members he has accrued since the group was founded in 2009, but experts say it is among the largest of the armed civilian groups that have grown in popularity with the proliferation of social justice demonstrations. The presence of armed civilian groups, many organized on Facebook, has brought street brawls and deadly shootings to a handful of protest scenes. Most notably, in August, a 17-year-old traveled to Kenosha, Wis., to guard businesses during unrest there and shot three men, two fatally. He has been charged with homicide. The Oath Keepers' Twitter account lauded the teen as "a Hero, a Patriot." Meanwhile, Rhodes has called Black Lives Matter protesters "well-funded Marxist and racist agitators" and regularly warns of a coming civil war. Both Rhodes's and the organization's Twitter accounts were suspended in September after predicting "open warfare" with protesters on election night. The Southern Poverty Law Center describes Oath Keepers as a far-right extremist group with a radical anti-government ideology rooted in dangerous conspiracy theories. Social media accounts associated with the group traffic in debunked ideas related to QAnon, covid-19 and vaccines. But Rhodes, a former paratrooper, has rejected those labels. The group's website describes itself as a nonpartisan collection of former military and law enforcement officers who have pledged to "defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic." "We feel a duty to protect people's rights," Rhodes, 55, said. "We respect the rights of the protesters, but they don't have a right to terrorize other people, assault them or burn their property to the ground." Rhodes, who wears a black eye patch over his left eye - the result of a bullet wound he says was an accident but declined to detail - issued a "call to action" in Louisville last month, appealing for volunteers with backgrounds in emergency medical services, firefighting, combat and other skills. Dozens of followers from around the United States showed up. Some said they were not concerned with Rhodes's political stances, and some appeared unfamiliar with his history of extreme remarks. Instead, they talked about finding a sense of purpose and fellowship in a group whose stated mission reflects the one that guided their military service. Former Army sergeant Kenny Harrelson, who traveled from Florida to answer Rhodes's call, joined the Oath Keepers in 2017. He spent five years in the service but wasn't deployed after injuring his back and shoulder in training accidents. "You do spend the rest of your life looking for that camaraderie," Harrelson said of his military experience. "When I found Oath Keepers, I fell headfirst in it, helping train the civilians in the group. Makes me feel like I'm back in it." John Temple, a West Virginia University professor who studies the so-called "patriot" movement, called Oath Keepers the "most PR-savvy" of the groups that have surged in popularity after President Barack Obama's election in 2008. In the 1990s, self-styled militias that touted overtly racist messaging pivoted to anti-government stances, he said. They rallied around notions that the federal government was going to confiscate citizens' guns and abandon rural families, a fear that proliferated under Obama. But under President Donald Trump, those concerns have waned, and the groups have pivoted again. "They've turned toward other political motivations, and a lot of it has to do with race, if you just look at what they're showing up at," Temple said, referring to social justice protests. "But they know if they have an overtly racist message, that's not going to help the cause." Oath Keepers has become one of the largest of such groups, experts say, in part by actively rejecting labels like "militia," "far-right" and "racist," and crafting a message that resonates with highly trained and mission-oriented people. "There's a sense of purpose there," Temple said. "I've encountered guys who serve with distinction in combat and get home and never figure things out as civilians. And then they find these groups and it becomes their new mission, and there's this feeling they're serving a greater purpose." Beneath the bulletproof helmets surrounding the gas station last week was a hodgepodge of ideas about what Oath Keepers is and isn't. The group was Trump-leaning, to be sure, with a handful of exceptions. Members are largely White. Some believe the people protesting police brutality have a legitimate concern but see the small business owners victimized by rioting and looting as innocent bystanders more deserving of their support. Others echo false conspiracy theories that the Black Lives Matter movement is a farce, the protesters paid and George Soros is pulling the strings. Several declined interviews with The Washington Post. One 29-year-old member joined after a three-year stint in the Army ended in 2013, leading him to move back into his parents' home. He used the G.I. Bill to attend Sullivan University's College of Technology and Design in Louisville but hasn't discovered his calling. After working odd jobs for a while, he hasn't landed on a career. "Honestly, I've been kind of struggling," said Andrew, who declined to share his last name for fear of being doxed, or having his personal information shared online, by left-wing activists. "The Army gave me a sense of purpose, like I was doing something good. What's worth doing now? . . . That's kind of what brought me here. I finally feel like guarding this Shell station is something I can do to help. Preserving our way of life is worthwhile." After the confrontation with protesters in the hotel parking lot, Rhodes asked one of Oath Keepers' few Black members, an Army veteran and former Indianapolis police officer named Mike, to speak to the news media. Mike, who goes by "Whip" but refused to give his last name for fear that his private security employer would reprimand him, joined the group several years ago and was leading the field operation in Louisville. A reporter asked him if he believed there was racism in America. "I said, 'Yeah, there's racism in America,'" Mike, 36, later recounted with a chuckle. "There's racism wherever there are Black people, all over the world." But the Oath Keepers get a bad rap, he said, insisting the racists who were once in its ranks have been kicked out. "When I first ran into some Oath Keepers, they were good ol' boys, the definition of prejudiced people. And I thought they were a racist group, so I didn't really mess with them," Mike said. But he said he's since been attracted to the group's food drives, disaster relief missions and efforts to protect businesses and people. "Reputation is everything in this new, sensitive America, and a lot of times perception is reality," he said. "The reputation of militias is a bunch of racist White guys. Some of them are but not all of them." Oath Keepers works with a variety of groups. In Louisville, members connected with the Kentucky Mountain Rangers, another armed group in the mold of the Oath Keepers, who helped guard the gas station. David Dohn, 57, recently joined the Kentucky group after retiring in 1998 from a 19-year career in the Special Forces. Both he and his teenage son carried AR-15s and wore desert camo tactical gear as they patrolled the Shell. "In the Army, you can't be racist or ignorant. Everybody's green. I don't judge anybody. I don't care what color you are - purple, White, Black," Dohn said. "I made it perfectly clear I will not associate, train with racists. I ain't got time for that. I'm not bringing my children around that." Dohn explained that he owned a commercial paint company in Kentucky and one of his longtime employees, who joined the Mountain Rangers alongside him, had two Palestinian parents. "I always joke with him, I probably killed some of your cousins," Dohn said before introducing his employee using an ethnic slur. "I call him a 'camel jockey' to mess with him a little bit but whatever. I don't care about his race: We're family." The man, Jack Shunnarah, of Hodgenville, Ky., laughed awkwardly as other men resting against the wall of the gas station repeated the pejorative. "Somebody needs to make a stand," Shunnarah said of his motivation to join the group. "We need to take Louisville back. We're not here to start no s---. But if we see somebody getting hurt, we're going to protect them. All this 'Black Lives Matter' mess . . . it's all lives matter." The Oath Keepers are selective about who they associate with, Mike said. He turned down an offer for assistance from the Proud Boys - the extreme-right group Trump referenced in last week's debate, telling them to "stand down, stand by" - expressing contempt for a group that has gained a reputation for virulent racism and violent confrontations with demonstrators in numerous American cities. Unbeknown to Mike, a former Proud Boys member stood nearby with an AR-15 as they protected the gas station. The 40-year-old White man - who would only give his nickname, Stitch, out of fear of being doxed- said he had attended more than a dozen protests with the Proud Boys before recently leaving the organization for reasons he declined to share. He described the Oath Keepers' encounter with protesters in the parking lot as evidence that the "civil discourse is completely and utterly broken down in this country." "This," the man said, lifting his rifle, "is the only thing keeping these people from taking us over completely and having the CCP [the Chinese Communist Party] right here in America." Rhodes said the Oath Keepers were given written consent from businessowners to protect a handful of buildings in Louisville throughout the week, including two pawnshops, a day care, the gas station and a private residence. The gas station had been the subject of vandalism in recent weeks and Rhodes said the owner believed demonstrators targeted her store because a White employee had shot a Black man with a rifle there last month after the man threw items at him. The store owner declined an interview with The Post. In the following days, Rhodes said, the owner was made aware of threats against the store, and someone tagged the entrance with graffiti. The Oath Keepers, making rounds of vandalized properties near downtown, offered assistance and she accepted, he said. As Rhodes and Mike made their rounds in an SUV one evening last week, the pair received two urgent messages back to back; first, a vehicle carrying two Black men pulled up to the gas station screaming insults, and men from another armed group from Kentucky verbally sparred with them. That's a "no-go!" Rhodes yelled into his cellphone, discouraging any form of escalation with members of the public. A moment later, Mike said he received a message from one of his sources on the ground that two officers had been shot during protests downtown, a fact that wouldn't be publicly confirmed by Louisville police for another 10 minutes. "They're going to be trigger-f---ing-happy," Rhodes said of the Louisville police. "We've got to tell our guys to have their hands clear and their weapons in sight when the cops are around." Mike said he has relationships within Louisville's law enforcement, and Rhodes maintains that members of Oath Keepers are vetted, their credentials verified and their ability and competence highly scrutinized. But the Thursday evening confrontation in the parking lot showed cracks in the screening process. Protesters lambasted a young man holding an AR-15 rifle who was visibly trembling during the interaction. Another man with Oath Keepers had his finger on the trigger of his rifle, violating a key gun safety principle and earning a lecture from fellow group members. Concerns about vetting will follow the Oath Keepers as they attempt to involve themselves in other social justice conflicts that make national news. In 2016, Rhodes promised to "hunt down" voter fraud and voter intimidation, particularly "by leftists." In Tuesday night's debate, Trump called on his supporters to do much the same this November. Rhodes believes the risk this time around is greater, fearing the "Marxists" are planning violence. He hasn't specified Oath Keepers' plans for poll-watching, but he said the group will be involved on Election Day. "We'll be ready," he said. Engineering giant Weir has become the latest British company to catch the eye of overseas suitors. The FTSE 250 firm is selling its struggling oil and gas division to US machinery titan Caterpillar, famed for its yellow diggers and bulldozers. The 314m deal is the final step in Weir's four-year shake-up, which began when Jon Stanton was appointed as chief executive in 2016. The sale to Caterpillar comes as a host of British companies, including security firm G4S and bookmaker William Hill, attract interest from foreign buyers. Stanton, 53, launched a drive to slim down the sprawling Scottish engineering firm, and now it will serve only the mining industry. He said: 'We're focusing now on copper, gold, iron ore and lithium. Demand for these metals is going to grow because of general demographic trends an expanding population, the rising middle class and demand for copper will grow even more because of the increasing trend towards electrification. 'Take electric cars: there is four times more copper used in an electric vehicle than in a standard combustion engine.' Lithium, meanwhile, is used in the batteries which are increasingly popular for storing renewable energy. Weir's oil and gas arm, best known for its valves and pumps, has been struggling as demand for crude slumped during the pandemic. In the first six months of this year, Weir profits fell by 27 per cent to 108m. Offloading the unit is an attempt by Weir to prepare it for the future, as demand for fossil fuels wanes, with companies trying to cut their carbon emissions. Weir, which was founded in 1871 by Scottish brothers George and James Weir, initially served Glasgow's shipbuilders. Stanton said: 'It's our 150th anniversary next year. We started out in the shipbuilding industry, but we have lasted because we've kept changing and reinventing.' The cash will help to pay down Weir's debt pile, while for Caterpillar the deal is a bet on the oil and gas sector surviving for several more years. Harry Philips, an analyst at Peel Hunt, said that Weir had 'pulled a rabbit out the hat' with the deal. He added: 'The management deserves much credit for getting the asset away in the current environment and it will enable Weir to participate in mergers and acquisitions.' Stanton confirmed that Weir would be on the hunt for companies to buy to boost its mining equipment business. The shares shot up 15.9 per cent, or 203.5p, to 1483.5p their highest level since January. Rather than participating in mining itself, Weir creates the equipment that miners need to do their job safely. Now the company is more focused, Stanton plans to develop technology which will help miners meet their goals of becoming more environmentally friendly. Already Weir has shaken up the way miners crush the rocks they dig from the ground, by creating 'high-pressure grinding rolls' which use much less energy and water than traditional methods. It has also developed a system which dries out the tailings sludge left over from mining processes and allows it to be formed into harmless hills rather than stored behind a dam. Previous incidents where these dams have burst have resulted in disastrous consequences for local communities affected. Source: Xinhua| 2020-09-25 23:33:03|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, Sept. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said Friday that the Chinese side is willing to keep offering assistance to Angola to the best of its ability, and will send an anti-epidemic medical expert group to the country in the near future. During his phone conversation with Angolan President Joao Lourenco, Xi also said China is willing to give priority to sharing with African countries after its vaccine research and development is successful and put into use. Xi said that in the face of the COVID-19 outbreak, the Chinese and Angolan governments have taken resolute and decisive measures, and have effectively contained the epidemic based on the principle of putting people first and putting life first, adding that the two sides have supported and helped each other, and the expatriates of the two countries in each other's countries have been well taken care of. He also said that Angola is China's important partner in Africa, and that China and Angola are good brothers and partners of sincerity, real results, affinity and good faith, adding that China supports Angola in independently exploring a development path suited to its national conditions and stands ready to work with Angola to steer the direction of bilateral relations and take the China-Angola strategic partnership to a higher level. Noting the economies of China and Angola are highly complementary, Xi said China is willing to promote cooperation on the resumption of work and production with Angola on the basis of sound epidemic prevention and control, encourage competent Chinese enterprises to undertake investment cooperation in Angola, promote new development in practical cooperation between the two countries, and boost Angola's economic and social development. China is ready to closely coordinate with Angola on multilateral occasions and in international affairs to jointly safeguard international fairness and justice, and to defend multilateralism and the common interests of developing countries, he added. Enditem Advertisement If your wanderlust has fizzled out it's not really surprising, given the circumstances. But if you scroll down and take a peek at these stunning travel photographs the chances are it'll be reignited. They are presented here courtesy of Cewe, a photo book and online retailer, which runs one of the largest annual open photo competitions in the world. The 15 images below are just some of the entries submitted so far in the travel and culture category in the 2021 edition of the contest. They include an incredible shot of an avenue of beech trees in Northern Ireland - which will be instantly recognisable to Game of Thrones fans - a beautiful image of the French city of Strasbourg and an epic photo of the Acropolis in Athens captured at sunset. Clare Moreton, a photo expert at Cewe UK, said: 'It might be a few months more before we can travel in a more familiar way, but that doesn't mean we can't enjoy planning where we might go on our next trip, or looking back at the great memories made whilst travelling abroad.' An avenue of ancient beech trees, known as the Dark Hedges, in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, catches the morning sunlight in this stunning photo by Steve Allen. Game of Thrones fans might also know the location as Kingsroad Photographer Ivan Banovic shot this jaw-dropping aerial image of Omis - a town in Croatia that is also known as the 'town of pirates' A picture-postcard scene captured by photographer Thierry Den Hartog of the river in Strasbourg, France. Strasbourg is the capital of the north-eastern Grand Est region Colours collide in this summery shot by Kay Ludwig of Varadero Beach in Cuba. Tripadvisor named the beach as the ninth-best stretch of sand in the world in its ranking of the best beaches of 2020 The ancient citadel of the Acropolis in the Greek capital Athens is captured at sunset in this magical shot by Marius Godoi This serene scene was snapped at the Sheikh Sayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi by Christina Theuerkauf. It is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates A horse and its rider in Monument Valley, Arizona, conjure up a scene from a Wild West movie in this photo by Meike Heidemann Photographer Nicola Montfort snapped this candid shot of a gondolier in Venice stopping to taking a call on his phone Daniel Mirisch is the photographer behind this stunning image, which shows a rainbow of colours lighting up the side of the Pont Valentre bridge in Cahors - a town in the south of France Photographer Matej Kotula waited for the perfect moment to capture this snap, which shows the sun rising above the Slovakian capital of Bratislava On the left is a beautiful scene captured by photographer Lorraine Yip. It shows the pagoda of Seigantoji, which stands next to Nachi no Taki, one of the tallest single-tiered waterfalls in Japan at 436ft (133 metres). On the right is a stunning image by Andreja Ravnak, which was shot during the famous Venice carnival. The carnival is best known for its show of elaborate masks This charming image by Artur Pardo shows children gathering near a fish market in Manila, the capital of the Philippines Photographer Jonathan Gatzer is behind this mesmerising shot showing the sun setting in Zambia Boats rest on the beach of Praia do Sono in the east of Brazil on a canvas of sea spray and tropical vegetation, in an amazing photo snapped by Nico Barner Chandigarh, Oct 5 : Reiterating his and his government's full support to the agitating farmers in their fight against the Centre's 'black' farm laws, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday appealed to them to relax their ongoing 'Rail Roko' protest to allow goods trains to pass through in the interest of the state and its people. In an appeal to the protesting farmers, he urged them to ease their rail blockade in order to ensure that the state is able to meet its critical needs and ensure that the citizens, including the farming community, are not put to any serious inconvenience in the coming days. The Chief Minister pointed out that due to the prolonged blockade of goods trains, the situation at Punjab's coal plants is critical and they are left with only five-six days of coal. Once the supplies run out, the government will be forced to shut down these plants, which will severely impact the state's electricity supply and cause immense hardship to the citizens, he noted. Further, said Amarinder Singh, with not a single fertiliser rake entering Punjab for the past one week, there could be severe shortage of fertiliser for use by farmers for sowing of the wheat crop. There is, therefore, urgent need to allow inflow of fertiliser rakes into the state to ensure that there are sufficient stocks for the rabi season, he said. The Chief Minister also pointed to the need to create space for storage of rice and wheat, to be harvested by Punjab's farmers in the coming seasons. For this, the existing stocks of these foodgrains would have to be lifted and dispatched by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) to other parts of the country, he stressed. The pilot has been identified as Giuseppe Oppedisano, 61, the owner of a Queens restaurant A single-engine seaplane crashed on top of a concrete pier in Queens, killing a female passenger and sending the pilot and another passenger to the hospital with serious injuries, New York authorities said. During a news conference, New York City Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro said the plane skipped twice on the water of Long Island Sound as it attempted to land around 3pm on Sunday. The plane broke in pieces after crashing on a pier at Riverside Drive and 158th Street. Authorities identified the woman, who died at the scene, as 61-year-old Maggie O'Neill, according to NBC. The pilot was identified as Giuseppe Oppedisano, 61, the owner of a Queens restaurant Il Bacco. The other passenger has only been identified as a 66-year-old man. Both men remained in critical condition as of Sunday night. Witnesses said the plane was traveling fast when it skipped on the water and hit the pier, Nigro said. 'Why it happened, we have no idea,' he said. A single-engine seaplane crashed (pictured) on top of a concrete pier in Queens, killing 61-year-old Maggie O'Neill During a news conference, New York City Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro said the plane skipped twice on the water of Long Island Sound as it attempted to land around 3pm on Sunday Someone riding a personal watercraft saw the crash and removed two men from the wreckage, Nigro said. 'I just hopped the fence, I ran over, I ripped the windshield out and pulled one of the guys out,' said Jarrett Schupak, who was treated for minor injuries after rushing to help. Firefighters removed O'Neill from the wreckage. First responders at the scene after the plane crashed Sunday afternoon in Queens The plane broke in pieces after crashing on a pier at Riverside Drive and 158th Street. The Federal Aviation Administration said the plane is a single-engine Cessna 182 The FAA will release aircraft registration information after investigators confirm it at the scene. The National Transportation Safety Board said it is investigating but will not travel to the crash site Schupak and two other bystanders were treated for minor injuries at the scene but refused further medical attention, Nigro said. The pilot is a local resident who flies often from a hangar on the water behind his home, Nigro said. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said the plane is a single-engine Cessna 182. The FAA will release aircraft registration information after investigators confirm it at the scene. The National Transportation Safety Board said it is investigating but will not travel to the crash site. A day after walking out of the NDA in Bihar targeting Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) president Chirag Paswan appealed to people against voting for Kumar's JD(U) and claimed that an alliance of his party and the BJP will come to power in the state after the Assembly polls. In an open letter, Paswan told the voters of Bihar that a vote for the Janata Dal (United) will force the migration of their children tomorrow as he sought their support for his party candidates in the three-phase poll starting October 28. The LJP on Sunday decided to put up its candidates against the JD(U) citing "ideological differences" with the party to assert that it will not accept Kumar's leadership of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is the principal member of the NDA and it has already announced Kumar as the leader of the bloc in the state. "This is the most decisive moment in the history of the state of Bihar. It is a question of life and death of the 12 crore people of the state and we have no time to lose. The road ahead is not easy for the LJP but we will fight and win too," Paswan said. All LJP MLAs will work under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he added. The 37-year-old leader also made a reference to his ailing father, Union minister Ram Vilas Paswan, who has undergone a heart surgery at a private hospital in Delhi and is expected to remain hospitalised for some time. He spoke of his "Bihar first, Bihari first" vision document and said his father would be proud that his son has stuck to the issue he had raised through it. Citing his party's differences with the JD(U), Paswan said be it the growing bureaucracy in Bihar, the ruling party's treatment of its allies or its agenda, people's grievances are not being addresses either by the officials or the chief minister. Paswan said Kumars long rule has delivered nothing" and Bihar will get an actual double-engine" government, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi has often spoken about, when a BJP-led dispensation comes to power after the assembly polls. In an interview to PTI, Paswan also refuted suggestions about his own chief ministerial ambitions and asserted that his party wants the BJP to lead the government after the polls, which are scheduled to start from October 28. He heaped praise on the prime minister and noted that he had in 2013 an option of choosing between him and Kumar, who had then quit the NDA against Modis projection as its prime ministerial candidate, and he had chosen the BJP leader over the chief minister. I have been consistent in my support, belief and admiration for the prime minister since I fought my first election in 2014. It is Nitish Kumar who has been fluctuating in his stand. He joined hands with Lalu Prasad and then joined the NDA in 2017. He keeps thinking as how he can continue to be chief minister rather than working for the states development," he said. Paswan said he never had any belief in Kumars leadership. Kumar has been at the helm all these years because of a lack of alternative, Paswan said and noted that people of the state now have many options to choose from as there are several smaller alliance in the fray. Let the people of Bihar decide. One thing they have decided that they do not want to see todays chief minister again at the helm after the polls," he said. Asked how he reconciles his support to the BJP with the saffron partys backing of Kumar, he said every party is free to decide their agenda and he is fine with that. The LJP, he added, had done its best in the February 2005 assembly polls when it had polled more than 12 per cent votes by fighting independently. His party is now organisationally stronger and has a clearer vision for the state, he said, expressing confidence that people will back it in the seats where it contests. The LJP will not put up candidates against the BJP. Kem Waterfall has long been a major draw for tourists visiting Nghe An, pulling tens of thousands of visitors to the north-central Vietnamese province each year. When it comes to tourist attractions in Nghe An Province, Cua Lo Beach in Cua Lo District and Kem Waterfall in nearby Con Cuong District top pretty much every list. While Cua Lo Beach features golden sands and pristine waters, Kem Waterfall stands tall in the province's mountainous area. The 500-meter-tall cascade of silky white waters cascading down its rocks captivate visitors and the turquoise pool at its base offers a refreshing swim. The waterfall is located inside Pu Mat National Park in Con Cuong District, about 20 kilometers from the districts township. According to the indigenous Thai people, the cascade is also called by the name of Bo Bo, meaning 'white strip of silk' in their ethnic language. The white water is a stark contrast to the robust tropical forest which surrounds the area. Visitors enjoy Kem Waterfall in Nghe An Province, Vietnam. Photo: Dao Tho As part of the efforts to attract tourists, the administration of Pu Mat National Park has banned fishing beneath the waterfall, creating the perfect environment for schools of beautifully colored fish to enjoy its water. Tourists can dip their legs in the water and enjoy a tingling 'massage' from these fish as they swirl around their feet. The pool of water at the base of the waterfall welcomes thousands of swimmers each year, but those who would rather stay dry can rest and picnic on the flat boulders surrounding the small lake. The people of Nghe An not only depend on the waterfall for tourism but for the air conditioning effect it has on Con Cuong, dubbed 'the fiery wok of Indochina' thanks to summertime temperatures that consistently hover around 40 degrees Celsius. The area near the waterfall, however, sits at a comfortable 20 degrees thanks to the chilly vapor rising up from the falls. Visitors sit on boulders near Kem Waterfall in Nghe An Province, Vietnam. Photo: Dao Tho As impressive as the landscape is, it is not the only reason to visit Kem. Visitors are also able to sample delicacies from the mountainous forests of north-central Vietnam. The food is prepared by the skillful hands of the local Thai people. The main staples are 'xoi tim' (purple sticky rice), 'com lam' (rice in bamboo tubes), roasted chicken, and 'mooc reu' (steamed moss meatballs), all of which captivate the tastebuds of visitors to the area. There is a Nghe An folk tune that says, Come to Pu Mat with me to visit the Kem cascade as high as the sky. Those who have visited Kem Waterwall can attest to those claims, with many awed by its infinite mightiness. Visitors swim at the base of Kem Waterfall in Nghe An Province, Vietnam. Photo: Dao Tho Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! He was a special person whose personality filled up the whole room when he entered you knew he was there, she said. He fought his way through this very racist and difficult Hollywood system and was able to maintain a career through it all. PARIS - Giambattista Vallis 1960s-infused collection was the highlight on the second-last day of Paris Fashion Week, which concludes Tuesday with Chanel and Louis Vuitton runway shows. Like Milan before it, Paris is undertaking an unusual fashion season for Spring-Summer 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic. The nine-day calendar is flitting between 16 ready-to-wear runway collections with masked guests in seated rows, 20 in-person presentations and several dozen completely digital shows streamed online with promotional videos. Here are some highlights from Monday. GIAMBATTISTA VALLI A retro 1960s esthetic, in a mainly monochrome palette with flashes of his signature floral motifs and bows. That was the recipe for Italian designer Giambattista Vallis light and springy spring-summer collection, that was held as a presentation, instead of a runway show, owing to concerns over the virus spread in France. In Paris new measures were announced, including the closure of cafes and bars. Guests in masks waited outside the venue in the overcast autumnal weather, and like during other Paris Fashion Week presentations were greeted with sanitizer gel and extra masks. The collections best looks were the simplest: A mini skirt-suit in Chinese white with two rough-edged panels forming the skirt. A shirt in Chinese silver hung down with loose proportions -- unstructured, simple and clean -- and had big gold buttons adorning four statement pockets. (Big gold buttons have been a theme this season in Paris). Looks were given a twist with a large black bow tied at the top of the models heads. Other standout pieces included a white floral patterned mini dress with trendy mini Juliette sleeves. The shoulders were lopped off, giving the silhouette an interesting T-shape. ANTON BELINSKIY GETS NOSTALGIC, POLITICAL The Ukrainian designer credited with steering a rebirth in fashion in Kyiv, Anton Belinskiy, presented his spring-summer collection Monday that channeled retro nostalgia in his simple, but conceptually-rich way. The fashion scene in the Ukrainian capital began to thrive in the embers of a fading cultural revival that followed the 2014 Revolution. A hip, fashion-forward vibe followed the collection that was full of loose silhouettes. A stiff, bronze fold over fabric suit jacket had an intentionally retro vibe. A powerful and somehow sad print of a lone boy staring wistfully at his dog. Amid the nostalgia there was an image highlighting contradictions in gay rights for Ukraine: Two models, with one holding a child in her arms. Adoption is illegal for same-sex couples in Ukraine, while lesbians are given access to IVF and assisted insemination treatments. Read more about: The brewing trade fight with Vietnam is breaking across familiar lines in the U.S., with importers aghast and textile interests applauding. Late last week, with President Trump suffering from COVID-19, his administration moved ahead with an investigation into Vietnams practices in the timber industry and whether or not the Asian nation undervalues its currency, giving domestic producers an advantage. President Trump is firmly committed to combating unfair trade practices that harm Americas workers, businesses, farmers, and ranchers, said Robert Lighthizer, United States Trade Representative. The stakes are high for fashion. Vietnam accounts for 15.8 percent of apparel imports to the U.S., making it the second-largest producer behind China, which has a 37.3 percent share of the market. And Vietnam has been something of a port in the storm for apparel producers contending with Trumps long-running trade war with China, which has calmed but still simmers below the surface. Vietnam is an important trading partner for the U.S. apparel, footwear, and travel goods industry, and has become even more important as U.S. companies have implemented diversification strategies away from China, said Steve Lamar, president and chief executive officer of the American Apparel & Footwear Association. As brands did their best to restructure their sourcing models to protect American consumers and American global value chain workers from increased costs caused by the administrations tariffs, and follow the administrations edict to diversify from China, many turned to their trusted partners in Vietnam. Lamar also argued that new costs on U.S. supply chains would come just as the industry is recovering from the coronavirus slowdown. But the National Council of Textile Organizations welcomed the move. NCTO strongly opposes foreign governments undervaluing their currencies, which puts U.S. manufacturers at a disadvantage by inflating the cost of U.S. exports and deflating the cost of U.S. imports, said Kim Glas, president and ceo of the textile group. The U.S.-Vietnam trading relationship suffers from many of the same problems that we have experienced with China, Glas said. There are strong indications of a purposefully undervalued currency that warrants a full investigation. Further, the industries in the two countries are inextricably linked, as Vietnam sources much of its textile inputs from China. Sign up for WWD's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. An anti-corruption court on Monday charged former Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari in two graft cases, a week after he was indicted in a major money laundering case.Zardari, 63, the co-chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and husband of the country's first woman prime minister Benazir Bhutto, was present in the Islamabad-based court and pleaded not guilty. During the hearing, the accountability court indicted 19 others accused in the Park Lane case and 15 others in the Thatta water supply case.The court charged Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur in a mega money laundering case on September 28. In the Park Lane case, Zardari and his son Bilawal Ali Zardari are accused of purchasing 307 acres of prime property in Islamabad at very low rates using frontmen.In the Thatta water supply case, a private contractor was illegally awarded project contracts. In the money laundering case, it is alleged fake accounts were used by the former president and the other accused to park and launder ill-gotten wealth.The court has rejected Zardari's plea seeking acquittal in all three cases. He was arrested last year by the National Accountability Bureau and probed for months before being released in December on medical grounds. Zardari has maintained the allegations against him are a vilification campaign by Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Commenting on the accountability cases filed against him, Zardari said that he had previously suffered under the same circumstances when cases were filed slapped on him. When we are in Opposition, such cases are filed against us, he said. We have been going through these cases [in the past as well],added Zardari. (This story has not been edited by www.republicworld.com and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.) The Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum, on Monday inaugurated two committees to ensure the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to other liberated local government areas of the state. The government had since last month commenced the relocation of the IDPs from the state capital and other local government headquarters to their respective ancestral homes. The ongoing insurgency in North-east Nigeria has so far displaced 2.7 million people, a UNHCR report indicates. Of this number, about 80 per cent of them are from Borno State, which is the epicentre of the decade-old crisis. Borno has 32 official IDP camps with an unknown number of unofficial camps hosting a larger number of the IDPs. Two weeks ago, Mr Zulum flagged off the official return of IDPs to Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area of the state. His convoy came under attack twice. At least 15 security personnel died in the ambush. But the governor has said that he would not be deterred in his resolve to return the IDPs to their ancestral communities. Committees Inaugurating the two new committees, Governor Zulum said despite the attacks on his convoy, he would not abandon the other IDPs. We are aware of the security situation in these areas, but if nothing is done to return the IDPs homes, Boko Haram will one day come to Maiduguri to displace us all, he said. One of the tactics of Boko Haram is to ensure there are no human activities in these areas. The presence of human beings in their areas is a threat to Boko Haram, the governor added. The governor also said the ongoing resettlement of IDPs was being organised in collaboration with the Nigerian military and other security agencies and in line with Kampala declaration on voluntary and safe returns of IDPs or refugees. The committees are expected to commence work as soon as possible. POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- MonitorMe has been named the winner of the Bronze Stevie Award in both the Best New Product/Service of The Year - Business Product and Most Valuable Corporate Response [to COVID-19] categories in the 17th annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business. The Stevie Awards for Women in Business honor women executives, entrepreneurs, employees, and the companies they run worldwide. The Stevie Awards have been hailed as the world's premier business awards. More than 1,500 entries were submitted this year for consideration in more than 100 categories, including Executive of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Company of the Year, Startup of the Year, Women Helping Women, and Women Run Workplace of the Year. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the need for a complex care management program to help treat COVID positive patients quarantined in their homes. MonitorMe bridged the gap in care by meeting the rapidly growing demand for telemedicine and remote patient monitoring with their proprietary technology and Monitoring Intervention Center. Rachel McIntosh, Chief Operating Officer of MonitorMe said "We thank the Stevie Awards for not only recognizing the dynamic product and service we offer, but also the impact of the care we provided to those who are most vulnerable in a unprecedented time of need. We're proud to support our community by keeping more individuals safe and healthy at home." Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners were determined by the average scores of more than 180 business professionals around the world, working on seven juries. Maggie Gallagher, president of the Stevie Awards, said, "In a year like no other in our lifetimes, we've produced a cohort of amazing, Stevie-winning women, organizations, and achievements like no other. At all times, our winners show themselves to be fearless and indomitable, but their leadership and example are especially valued this year. We congratulate all our Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie winners. We look forward to celebrating them during our December 9 virtual ceremony, and to hearing from some of them during our Women|Future Conference on November 12-13." About MonitorMe MonitorMe is a telehealth company that specializes in complex care management. Powered by proprietary technology, patients can instantly communicate with a nurse or physician 24/7/365. Unlike traditional telemedicine services that just use mobile devices, MonitorMe provides patients with technology that streams their hemodynamic health information in real-time to a Monitoring Intervention Center (MIC), where MonitorMe clinicians can immediately evaluate and manage patients' while coordinating care with primary care providers. For more information, visit www.monitor-me.com. About the Stevie Awards Stevie Awards are conferred in eight programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevie's recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com. Media Contact: Rachel McIntosh [email protected] SOURCE MonitorMe A Wembly Place Apartments resident is recovering in hospital from burns and smoke inhalation as a result of a fire Sunday night. St. Catharines Deputy Fire Chief Dave Upper said the fire began just past 9:30 p.m. in a third-floor apartment of the 63-unit apartment building at 5 Wembly Dr., and quickly spread into the attic. When crews arrived, they had a pretty significant well-involved structure fire. He said the injured man was taken to St. Catharines hospital suffering second-degree burns and smoke inhalation. There were several occupants of units on balconies, and we just had them shelter in place in the initial stages until we could get the fire under control and get the smoke cleared out for them, he said, adding residents were then able to safely leave the building using stairways. Representatives of the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal on Monday were expected to visit the site, just north of Glendale Avenue in Merritton, along with fire prevention officers, to investigate the blaze and determine its origin and cause. Firefighters remained on scene throughout the night searching the building for anyone who might have remained inside. Upper said the apartment where the fire began was completely gutted. Between the fire and smoke damage, there will be nothing salvageable out of that unit, he said. The fire caused about $500,000 in damage, he said. He said the design of the building that included a wood truss roof added to the challenge of fighting the fire. Its pretty rare to get a fire that well involved in a large building like that In this particular building, having a wood truss roof thats a big deal, he said, adding once the fire gets up into the attic of the building it can spread quickly. The residents of six apartments were displaced by the fire, and there is currently no estimate on how soon the tenants will be able to return to their homes. Upper said the Red Cross emergency response team was brought in to provide temporary housing to residents of two apartments. Upper said three St. Catharines Fire and Emergency Services pumpers and the aerial truck responded to the fire, as well as a command and rescue unit. Fire Chief Jeff McCormick called it an important reminder to keep home fire safety at the front of mind, as firefighters mark fire prevention week. Resident safety is always the first priority, and a big part of that is educating our residents, not only on how to prevent fires, but how to respond should a fire start in their home, he said in a statement. McCormick reminded residents to develop a fire escape plan, never leaving cooking unattended and keep combustible materials away from stove tops and to ensure the stove is turned off when not in use. If a fire occurs, the fire department advises people to cover the flames with a lid. A few additional tips the fire department provided include properly disposing of cigarettes and smoking materials in large deep ashtrays and not in potted plants, and ensuring smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly. Health Minister uses daily briefing to address common questions over pandemic strategy This article is old - Published: Monday, Oct 5th, 2020 Wales health minister today moved to address a range of common questions surrounding the Welsh Government pandemic response. At todays Welsh Government briefing Health Minister Vaughan Gething gave more detail to common questions on the decision to impose local lockdown restrictions across parts of north and south Wales and why such action is necessary at this time. He also challenged those who suggest that coronavirus is not serious and that the threat has been blown out of proportion. Mr Gething said: Some people still ask about why are we making such a fuss about coronavirus. Coronavirus is a new disease, 35 million people have been infected worldwide and more than one million people have died. There are currently no drugs licensed to treat or prevent coronavirus anywhere in the world and there is no known cure. We do not have a vaccine, but research continues. Many people who have recovered from coronavirus have ongoing health problems although they have never been in a hospital whats known as long covid. Many people who ask the first question also say that more people die from the flu every year than coronavirus. Every year we have a flu season, which sadly results in people dying, something that we call excess winter deaths. Thats why we encourage people who are at risk of the flu and our NHS and care staff to get vaccinated every winter. Last year about 1900 people died from flu and pneumonia in Wales. Sadly, there have already been more than 2500 deaths involving coronavirus. People continue to die from coronavirus in Wales. The next question is relatively similar and thats the one about the number of people in hospital dying are tiny and the threat has been blown up out of proportion. Over the last month weve seen a rapid increase in cases across Wales. The virus returned as people came home from holiday abroad and has been spread also as people have socialised without social distancing crucially, and most often in peoples homes. The majority have had a mild illness so far, but an increase in cases is followed within two to three weeks by the start of higher hospital admissions, higher critical care admissions and more deaths. Last week an average of 73 people a day were admitted to hospital with coronavirus. The number of people in hospital with coronavirus has almost doubled in the last fortnight. Sadly, the number of people who are dying is increasing week on week. Its easy to forget what things were like just six months ago, when around 150 people were admitted to hospital each day with coronavirus. Our intensive care units, including the additional capacity of the NHS created, were very close to being overrun. If we cant control the spread of the virus locally, we will see this happening again. And next question is why other countries like Sweden, which is commonly mentioned, which didnt introduce lockdowns have lower cases than us. I understand what tempting to look at other countries which didnt go through the difficult months of a nationwide lockdown. But its just not as simple as comparing the experience in Wales or indeed the UK with other countries which didnt lockdown. If we look at Sweden, its home to just 10 million people and its almost twice the size of the UK. There have been more than 5000 coronavirus deaths in Sweden, compared to hundreds in its Scandinavian neighbours which introduced stricter measures. Mr Gething also moved to address questions about why people in local lockdown areas are unable to see family and friends outside of their household, but are able to sit near strangers in pubs and restaurants. Similar arguments have been made about schools being kept open. He added: I do know, from my own experience, that its very difficult for families who have been separated by the pandemic. But if youre going to a pub you cannot sit with a stranger. You can only go to a pub with someone you live with or in the same exclusive bubble with. Gathering with friends sitting on another table is not an exception to that rule. The law is very clear about what the owner and manager of a business must do to keep everyone who uses it safe. We do not and would not put similar laws in place to regulate peoples private homes in Twitch has updated its community guidelines to clarify its ban on terrorist and extremist content. It said that its doing so to reinforce the fact that this type of content has no place on Twitch. Weve clarified our policy prohibiting terrorist and extremist content. View the Violence and Threats section of the Community Guidelines for further details: https://t.co/E2LKDBPnBv pic.twitter.com/OFe0NOwOUC Twitch (@Twitch) October 5, 2020 Last year, a shooter broadcast their attack on a German synagogue live on Twitch. Other terrorist attacks have been livestreamed on other platforms in recent years. Tackling extremist and terrorist content is a difficult problem for platforms such as Twitch and Facebook. An outright ban on such material probably isnt enough to prevent attackers from livestreaming their assaults or bad actors from encouraging other users to commit heinous acts. Still, platforms need to use every tool at their disposal to clamp down on such actions. Though Twitch has long had a zero-tolerance approach to hateful content, spelling out what is and isnt allowed as explicitly as possible cant hurt. Heres the language Twitch added to its guidelines: STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Police have released additional photos of a man sought for questioning in connection with a fatal shooting three weeks ago in Mariners Harbor. Prince Edmonds, 21, of New Brighton, and a 22-year-old man were sitting inside a car when the gunman approached them at about 1 p.m. Sept. 15 in the vicinity of Richmond Terrace and Lockman Avenue, according to a statement by the NYPDs Deputy Commissioner of Public Information. The NYPD released photos of a man and a Honda Civic that officers are seeking to locate in connection with the fatal shooting of Prince Edmonds, 21, in Mariners Harbor. (Courtesy of NYPD) An unidentified individual fired several shots into the drivers side of the car, the police statement said. After the shooting, the individual sought for questioning ran westbound on Richmond Terrace and entered a gray, four-door Honda Civic that was driven by a second unknown individual, the police statement said. The gray sedan fled westbound on Richmond Terrace. Edmonds suffered multiple gunshot wounds to his torso, while the 22-year-old man was struck once in the left shoulder. EMS removed Edmonds to Richmond University Medical Center in West Brighton where he was pronounced dead. The 22-year-old male traveled by private means to the same hospital, according to a previous police statement. In one of the new photos released by police, an individuals face can be seen in the front passenger seat of the Honda Civic. A second image shows a logo on the back of a dark-colored hooded sweater worn by the individual sought for questioning. Police previously released photos and a dramatic video of the individual and the car sought for questioning in connection with the shooting. Police describe the individual as a Black male wearing a dark-colored hooded sweater with a red or orange graphic on the front, blue jeans and white sneakers. The NYPD released photos of a man and a Honda Civic that officers are seeking to locate in connection with the fatal shooting of Prince Edmonds, 21, in Mariners Harbor. (Courtesy of NYPD) The Civic had a temporary tire on the front-passenger side of the car, according to police. People with information are urged to contact the NYPDs Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-8477 (TIPS) or 1-888-577-4782 (PISTA) for Spanish. The public also may submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential. By Express News Service SRINAGAR: Two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed and three others injured in a militant attack in Pampore area of South Kashmirs Pulwama district on Monday afternoon. A CRPF official said militants fired from their automatic weapons towards a Road Opening Party (ROP) of the CRPF at Kandzal area of Pampore in Pulwama district in the afternoon. Five jawans who were part of the ROP were injured in the militant attack. The injured were evacuated to hospital, where two of the injured jawans were declared brought dead. Sources said the militants managed to escape from the area after attacking the CRPF ROP. Immediately after the militant attack, police, CRPF and Army men rushed to the area and launched a search operation in the area and its adjoining localities to track down the militants responsible for the attack. Traffic movement in the area has come to a halt as search operations were going on. Sheep producers are encouraging industries to make wool their choice of fibre as a campaign gets underway to highlight its natural qualities. The sheep sector is celebrating the start of Wool Week (5 October - 18) today, and farmers are calling on politicians and green activists to back British wool. The annual event aims to put a spotlight on wools natural performance qualities and ecological benefits. The sector is keen to highlight the fact that fabrics such as polyester, nylon and acrylic are all forms of plastic and make up about 60% of the material that makes up clothes worldwide. The Farmers Union of Wales (FUW) is encouraging UK industries to embrace British wool, and, in turn, become more sustainable. Deputy president Ian Rickman said: Every year our sheep will produce a new fleece and they will do so as long as there is grass for them to graze on, making wool an excellent renewable fibre source. "That is especially true if compared to synthetic fibres, which require oil and refineries and are a non-renewable resource for fibre production. Mr Rickman added that sheep farmers were constantly working to safeguard the environment and improve efficiency in livestock production. The pull on natural resources and reductions required in the use of fossil fuels, he said, meant that consumers would have to look at their longer-term choices. We feed the nation with sustainable and well cared for lamb and take our responsibility to look after the environment seriously," Mr Rickman explained. The tiny plastic particles shed from our clothes take a very long time to degrade in the soil and are ingested by fish and other animals. "We, therefore, need to make choices on an individual level in terms of what we consume - be it food or clothes. He added that whilst it was encouraging that the Welsh government had pledged to consider more British wool for insulation in public buildings. It comes as the Covid-19 pandemic has had disastrous consequences for the wool industry, particularly the export market. Mr Rickman added: "We believe that if there is a will and full commitment by Governments to do the right thing, the benefits will be felt by our entire environment as well as sheep farmers. Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. Over the decades, there has been a notable increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer all over the world. This is strengthening the focus of pharmaceutical manufacturers all over the world to develop more effective medicine and treatment methods for the same. Increasing demand for biotechnological and biopharmaceuticals products using various cell culture lines is gaining importance. This increasing demand for cell culture will boost the growth of the cell culture media market over the coming years. Get Sample Copy of Report @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/31338 Company Profiles Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. Merck KGaA GE Healthcare Loin Corning Incorporated Irvine Scientific STEMCELL Technologies Inc. PAN Biotech MP Biomedicals, LLC PromoCell GmbH Becton, Dickinson and Company Hi-Media Laboratories As such, the global cell culture media market was valued at US$ 2.4 Bn in 2018, and is expected to witness a healthy CAGR of 7% over the forecast period (20192029). Key Takeaways of Cell Culture Media Market Study Serum-free media contributed maximum share to the cell culture media market in 2018 , due to high product availability and increasing adoption of the same. , due to high product availability and increasing adoption of the same. Cancer research accounted for a prominent share in the global cell culture media market in 2018 , attributable to the rising prevalence of cancer and increased cancer research funding. , attributable to the rising prevalence of cancer and increased cancer research funding. The biopharmaceutical companies segment is the most lucrative segment, due to increased usage of cell culture media in biopharmaceutical production. Increase in the number of pharmaceutical manufacturers has contributed to the dominance of North America in the global cell culture media market. Attributed to growing awareness regarding various diseases such as cancer and its rising prevalence, East Asia is expected to offer notable growth opportunities for the cell culture media market through 2029. Get To Know Methodology of Report @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/methodology/31338 Cell culture media not only helps in drug development but also collects extensive data that is valuable for future research. Rising demand for serum-free culture media will offer significant growth opportunities for the cell culture media market in the coming years, says a PMR analyst. Trends in Cell Culture Media Technologies There are many research and pipeline products that have the ability to treat chronic diseases. This is attributed to the current state of technology and more funding by government toward research & development activities. Also, rising awareness about cell culture-based vaccines and increasing demand for biopharmaceutical products will boost the growth of the cell culture media market. Increasing collaborations between contract manufacturing organizations and key players will surge market growth further. Serum-free cell culture media, among other cell culture media, has the potential to grow at a relatively faster rate over the forecast period. Access Full Report @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/31338 More Valuable Insights on Cell culture media Market Persistence Market Research offers a unique perspective and actionable insights on the cell culture media market in its latest study, presenting historical demand assessment of 20142018 and projections for 20192029 , on the basis of product (serum containing media, serum-free media , protein-free media, and chemically defined media), application (cancer research, biopharmaceuticals, regenerative medicine & tissue engineering, stem cell technologies, and others), and end user (biopharmaceutical companies, clinical research organizations, and academic research centers), across six regions. The RSPCA has warned that there may be a looming dog welfare crisis as new figures reveal a 650 per cent surge in the number of searchers for puppies to buy. The UK animal welfare charity is urging those thinking of welcoming a dog into their home to 'adopt, not shop' and fully consider the responsibility they are taking on. Google searches for 'puppies near me' were up from around 2,000 in January 2020 to 15,000 in the height of lockdown in July five times higher than in July 2019. Government figures also show a doubling of the licences issued for commercial dog imports from 5,964 in JuneAugust 2019 to 12,733 in June-August 2020. The rising demand appears to be fuelling an increase in the import of puppies bred overseas where conditions are harder to be sure are humane, the charity said. The RSPCA has warned that there may be a looming dog welfare crisis as new figures reveal a 650 per cent surge in the number of searchers for puppies, pictured, to buy (stock image) 'Its wonderful to see that so many people want to welcome dogs into their families and weve loved waving so many of our own dogs off into their forever homes,' said RSPCA dog welfare expert Dr Samantha Gaines. 'However, we are concerned that some families may not be considering the long-term commitment of taking on a dog and how theyll care for their new pet post-lockdown,' she continued. 'Were also worried that more families will hand their dogs into rescue due to behaviour problems that have emerged due to changes in routines and set-ups caused by lockdown.' 'During the past few months weve seen more visits to our website from people seeking advice on their dogs behaviour.' In fact, she said, there has been a 105 per cent increase on last year in visits to the RSPCA's 'Understanding dogs' behaviour' webpages, as well as a 27 per cent increase in visits to the Find a behaviourist section of the site. 'Dogs can be sensitive to changes to their routine and wed urge anyone who is concerned about their pets behaviour to speak to their vet or to a clinical animal behaviourist for help,' Dr Gaines added. The RSPCA has responded to more than 94,000 incidents across England and Wales this year with more than 45,000 relating to dogs. The charity also rehomed 7,480 dogs last year the equivalent of one around every hour-and-a-half and 39,178 animals in total. Those interested in adopting a pet through the welfare group can visit the 'Find a Pet' section of the RSPCA website, which includes current information on the organisation's coronavirus protocols for rehoming animals The UK animal welfare charity is urging those thinking of welcoming a dog into their home to 'adopt, not shop' and fully consider the responsibility. Pictured, a shelter dog (stock image) 'We have seen a rise in people searching for dogs to adopt during lockdown, which is fantastic, but at the same time, there appears to be a rise in people looking to buy puppies,' said RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood. 'We know that there are not enough puppies bred in the UK to meet the demands of those who want to buy them and, worryingly, there appears to be a surge in puppies coming in from outside the UK.' 'The problem with this is that, although breeders from countries like Romania are licensed, we have no way of checking the conditions those animals are being kept in and we fear that sales like these could be fuelling cruel puppy farms.' 'Were urging people to thoroughly do their research before committing to getting any dog and to make sure they dont get caught out by people acting illegally or irresponsibly. We have lots of dogs waiting for their forever homes so please do consider getting a rescue dog. 'If families would still prefer to buy a dog, were encouraging them to use The Puppy Contract. This is a free online tool that will help find responsible breeders and a happy, healthy dog.' Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 11:55:32|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BEIJING, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- With more Chinese heeding a national call, curbing food waste and promoting thrift have increasingly become a common practice among restaurants and diners. It is also apparent during the ongoing eight-day National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday. Chinese catering firms have been urged to introduce measures to put an end to food waste while improving the quality of products and providing better service, according to an action plan co-issued by the food safety authority under the State Council. The plan calls for measures to be integrated into the entire process from material purchase, storage, processing, to serving food and takeaway. Many companies that took steps keeping in mind the anticipated rise in customer numbers during the holiday -- usually a busy period in China for family gatherings, travel and eating out -- saw efforts proving effective. In a buffet restaurant along Qingnian Road of Chaoyang District in Beijing, the Chinese capital, ready-to-eat seafood is now shelved in smaller dishes. Eaters who finish all they have fetched will receive a fruit as a gift before leaving the restaurant, according to the manager, Zhang Weidong. Wang Yajing, deputy manager of the Beijing Hepingmen branch of Quanjude, one of China's best known roast duck chain restaurants, said the branch has recently seen a 40 percent decrease in leftovers because of efforts to curb food waste, which also made garbage storage and sorting easier. The food chain has trained staff to help customers order the right amount of food. It also provides free packaging services so that diners can take away leftovers, and gifts them badges with the words "role models of practicing thrift." Similar changes are also taking place in Shanghai. At a recent wedding banquet in the Minhang District of the city, fewer dishes were seen on the tables and many guests took away the leftovers. Xu Jie, the groom, said the quantity of dishes was decided taking into account the number of guests. Boxes and bags were provided to guests to take away the leftovers. In the past, local people enjoyed wedding feasts with excess food and huge plates, in a show of pomp that often led to a huge amount of food being wasted, recalled He Haiying, a local resident. In Shenzhen, south China, six KFC outlets recently unveiled a pilot charity program called "Food Bank," where unsold food is given free to people in need. The food is stored in freezers and put into small bags on which information including product name, storage date, and processing guidelines are mentioned. At the same time, "Clear Your Plate," a national campaign against wasting food, continues to gain steam online in the country. Social media users, especially the young, have been invited to share photos or videos of empty plates on Weibo after finishing their food. Weibo is a popular social media platform on which fighting food wastage is among the most viral topics. Media outlets, government agencies, social organizations and internet celebrities have joined the online stream of messages against wasting food, which has been welcomed by netizens. "When eating a mouthful of congee or rice, one should bear in mind that its production is not easy," wrote Tong Dawei, a young Chinese actor, quoting a proverb, in a Weibo post with photos of empty food plates. As of Sunday evening, the "Clear Your Plate" campaign, with the hashtag #GuangPanXingDong, had generated over 1 million posts and 800 million views on the platform. The China Consumers Association has reminded consumers to be reasonable in ordering meals and do so keeping in mind the number of diners, urging them to avoid eating extravagantly. In a related development, the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission exposed officials in six cases of violating frugality rules in a statement on Sept. 28. The country's top graft watchdog released the names of seven officials involved in the misuse of public funds for banquets and tours, accepting gifts, and awarding unauthorized allowances or bonuses, among other violations. It warned officials against inappropriate behavior during the holiday, which usually sees a rise in gifting, banquets, and related activities in China. To reduce undesirable work practices, the CPC had released its eight-point rules on austerity in late 2012. Enditem Actress Lindsay Lohan was once the most sought after celebrity in the early and mid-2000s, but after her controversial drug use, multiple DUIs and alleged bad on-set behavior, the actress fell from grace. Now a new report from a tabloid suggests that Lohan is financially struggling and is asking for help from her friends. Is Lindsay Lohan broke? According to the tabloid the Globe, the actress has pulled a "vanishing act" and is now begging her friends for "much needed" cash. Using words like "lost girl" and "loopy" to describe Lohan, the paper states that the actress is like a ghost and very few people know how to get a hold of her or even where she is. The tabloid claims that the actress is living out of a suitcase for years, but that she "can't hide forever." However, the site Gossip Cop can confirm that this report is not true at all. Also Read: Brooklyn Beckham Slammed by Domestic Violence Charity After Holding Fiancee Nicola Peltz's Throat in a Picture Gossip Cop pointed out that Lohan currently resides in Dubai, so the idea that she is hard to find is sketchy. However, the tabloid notes how the actress is currently entangled in a lawsuit with a high-profile book publisher over an unfinished book. The Globe discloses that because of this, the actress is "soliciting funds" from her "hidey-hole." The Insider says that Lohan is hitting up all the big contacts that she can and that the word on the street is that she is "running on empty." A representative for the actress dismissed the claims and stated that Lohan is not in debt. While it is true that the actress and her company, Crossheart, are being sued by Harper Collins for an incomplete book, but that does not mean the actress is having money issues. Lohan's rumors This is not the first time that tabloids made inaccurate claims about the actress since it was done before. Earlier this year, tabloids were busted for alleging that the actress was seeking revenge against certain celebrities. The Globe reported that Lohan wanted to blacklist a few famous people, such as Emma Stone, Ashton Kutcher and her former boyfriend, Wilmer Valderrama. The representative for Lohan denied the story. Years back, Gossip Cop corrected a report from Radar Online that alleged that the actress was writing a tell-all book. Gossip Cop ran the story by a representative for Lohan who confirmed that the article was not true at all. RadarOnline claimed that Lohan told her friends that she's writing "the mother of tell-alls." An alleged source said that if Lohan gets the green light, she is going to obliterate all her former friends and ex-boyfriends. The alleged list of stars that Lohan plans to target include Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, Ashton Kutcher and Britney Spears. However, it was a bogus report as Lohan has no intentions of revisiting past feuds or settling old scores through a book. In a New York Times profile, Lohan said that she is a "normal and nice person" and that she does not have any bad intentions. Lohan made it clear that she wants her past to stay in the past and that the best revenge for her is silence and success. She is not planning to open up about her past or take aim at others. Related Article: Is Jimmy Kimmel About to Lose His Show? Tabloid Says He Still Faces Backlash Due to Past Controversy @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Yahoo News Singapore file photo) SINGAPORE The punishment framework for employers who illegally deploy their foreign domestic workers will be reviewed, said Minister of State for Manpower Gan Siow Huang in Parliament on Monday (5 October). In light of the particular vulnerability of foreign domestic workers, we will review our punishment framework and action will be taken against employers in similar illegal deployment cases, regardless of whether they are aware of the illegal deployment, she said. This is to remind the employers that they are ultimately accountable for their foreign domestic workers and should take steps to ensure that their households deployment of the foreign domestic workers do not contravene the law. Gan was referring to questions raise by fellow Members of Parliament regarding the case of Parti Liyani, an Indonesian foreign domestic worker who was recently acquitted by the High Court after she was previously convicted of theft and possession of stolen items belonging to her employer, Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong. Parti, now 46, had filed a complaint with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in 2016 for being made to work outside of Liews home specifically at the home of Liews son Karl and at Karls office. The Liews subsequently filed a police report accusing her of stealing more than $50,000 of items from their household. Gan noted that in May 2018, following the conclusion of MOMs investigations into the complaint, the ministry in consultation with the Attorney-Generals Chambers decided to not take any further actions against Liew, while a caution was issued to his wife and an advisory notice was served upon Karl. She noted that these actions were in line with the actions taken by the ministry against similar cases in the past. There is a review ongoing for this particular case regarding Parti Liyanis illegal deployment arising from the High Court's observations. MOM will give an update when the review is completed in due course, said Gan. Story continues She also reiterated MOMs findings that, between 2017 and 2019, there had been an average of 550 complaints per year regarding the illegal deployment of foreign domestic workers by their employers or household members. Nee Soon GRC MP Louis Ng asked if MOM could require the documented consent of foreign domestic workers to be obtained if they are to be deployed outside of their employment address. Gan said in reply that employers are currently required to inform MOM if they intend to deploy a foreign domestic worker to an address different from what is stated in their work permit. We are considering ways to enable employers to be able to notify MOM more effectively so that we can track and approve such cases, more consistently, she added. Stay in the know on-the-go: Join Yahoo Singapore's Telegram channel at http://t.me/YahooSingapore Related stories: MOM: about 550 complaints a year of illegal deployment of foreign domestic workers Government to deal with 'what went wrong' in prosecution of CAG chairman Liew Mun Leong's maid: K Shanmugam CAG chair Liew Mun Leong's maid given discharge amounting to acquittal over final charge Changi Airport Group chairman Liew Mun Leong's maid acquitted of theft: High Court NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Advisors of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation names Gabriel Plotkin as its newest member. The mission of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation is to provide college scholarships and educational counseling to military children who lost a parent in the line of duty. As a member of the board, Plotkin will foster outreach for the foundation. Plotkin founded Melvin Capital Management LP in 2014 and serves as the firm's Chief Investment Officer. Melvin Capital is a New York City-based investment management firm that invests primarily in tech and consumer stocks. Prior to starting Melvin Capital, Plotkin was a prominent trader at SAC Capital. Gabe received his bachelor's degree in economics from Northwestern University. "I could not be more honored than to be named to the Board of Advisors of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation. This extraordinary organization has been delivering on a vital mission for nearly two decades. I look forward to having a role in ensuring that children who have lost a parent in the line of duty have the opportunity to receive the education they deserve," shared Gabe Plotkin. "We are honored to welcome Gabe as the latest member of our board. Gabe's business acumen and abiding commitment to helping military children achieve their college dreams will no doubt greatly advance our mission. We are delighted to welcome Gabe and his wife Yaara to the Fallen Patriots family!" said David Kim, Co-Founder and CEO of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation. To learn more and support the mission of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation, visit fallenpatriots.org. About Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation honors the sacrifices of our fallen military heroes by ensuring the success of their children through college education. Since 2002, Fallen Patriots has provided over $41 million in total assistance, including college scholarships and educational counseling to over 1,850 military children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. More than 20,000 children from across the United States have lost a parent in the line of duty. Help today by visiting www.fallenpatriots.org. SOURCE Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation Related Links fallenpatriots.org Connecticuts coronavirus infections continue to increase slightly, but not enough for Gov. Ned Lamont to delay Thursdays Phase 3 reopening of more indoor dining and private gatherings. However in a candid admission, Lamont said Monday its still too early for him to consider going inside at a restaurant. Look, Ill get there. I think so, Lamont told reporters. Ive been pretty impressed with the restaurateurs. Ive seen how careful they are. I see how careful they are about distancing. Ill probably look in. If I see some of those plastic partitions, that would probably give me a little bit of confidence. The Department of Public Health on Monday reported an increase of four fatalities over the weekend, bringing the states pandemic total to 4,517. There was a net increase of 19 hospitalizations, for a total of 129. In the seven-day total released on Monday, the total of 2,438 infections out of 169,305 tests is a 1.44 percent rate. If you go back to last week we had some catch-up data from some of the university test results that dated back beyond the prior week, Josh Geballe, Lamonts chief operating officer who has led the governors response to the virus said, noting that national website have not recorded them. In the region, Connecticuts 1.6 percent rate compares to 1.5 percent in New Hampshire, 1.3 percent in New York, 1.0 percent in Massachusetts, and eight tenths of a percent in Vermont and Maine. Lamont, who at 66 is in an age group that is susceptible to COVID, said he has eaten inside on a single occasion in the pandemic. I have, yep, once, next to a really big window, Lamont said in his daily news briefing from the State Capitol. If I can be outside, I am going to be outside as long as I can. Being outdoors for the last few months has been a big plus for our state and a big plus for our region, and I think that as we move from an outdoor culture to an indoor culture thats going to be the variable that we have to watch like a hawk. Lamont said that in discussing the pandemic with fellow governors throughout the nation, its clear that restaurants do not represent the kind of threat to accelerate the spread of COVID-19 of bars, which were ordered closed in March and have not been allowed to reopen. Certainly compared to bars, restaurants have managed themselves pretty well, Lamont said, noting that outdoor dining started on May 20 and partial-capacity indoor eating a month later. I think our restaurants here in Connecticut have managed that very professionally. The 1.6 percent infection rate over the last week will not preclude the new 50 percent openings of indoor performing arts venues, the increase to three-quarters capacity in restaurants and 100-person gatherings at indoor events such as catered weddings. We think the event planners, just like the restaurants, are going to be much more careful about making sure the protocols are followed because they want to be able to keep their event venue open, Lamont said. If we see a big change were not afraid to change strategies, Lamont said. The Department of Public Health on Monday reported an increase of four fatalities over the weekend, bringing the states pandemic total to 4,517. There was a net increase of 19 hospitalizations, for a total of 129. In the seven-day total released on Monday, the total of 2,438 infections out of 169,305 tests is a 1.44 percent rate. Geballe said the states rapid-response team focused on southeastern Connecticut last weekend, including New London, Norwich and Groton, where about 3,000 tests were performed. The positive rate was about 3.3 percent. Theres still a ways to go before we are out of the woods, Geballe said. In the region, Connecticuts 1.6 percent rate compares to 1.5 percent in New Hampshire, 1.3 percent in New York, 1.0 percent in Massachusetts, and eight tenths of a percent in Vermont and Maine. kdixon@ctpost.com Twitter: @KenDixonCT Mumbai: Actor Tamannaah Bhatia on Monday said she was being discharged from a Hyderabad hospital after testing positive for coronavirus and will now self quarantine. The Baahubali star was shooting for a project when she developed mild fever and eventually underwent a COVID-19 test last week. In a statement, Bhatia, 30, said she feels relatively well now. Although my team and I have been very disciplined on set, I unfortunately succumbed to a mild fever last week. After undertaking the mandatory tests, I was diagnosed as COVID-19 positive. I admitted myself into a private hospital in Hyderabad to mitigate adverse health outcomes and after being under the care of expert medical professionals I am now being discharged, the actor said. Bhatia said it has been a strenuous week but she is optimistic she would recover fully from this health peril which is distressing so many people around the world. For the present, I will be self isolating as advised. A big virtual hug to everyone for their love, concern and positivity. Stay safe, stay healthy, stay well, she further said in the statement. In August, Bhatias parents had tested positive for COVID-19. The actor will be next seen in Bole Chudiyan, also featuring Nawazuddin Siddiqui. She is also set to reprise Tabus role in the Telugu remake of the Sriram Raghavan directorial Andhadhun, scheduled to go on floors in November. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Friday that President Donald Trump's COVID-19 diagnosis might change the shape of stimulus talks. Pelosi said she believes that with Trump's COVID-19 diagnosis, Republicans will "see the reality" of what the country is facing. She is also hopeful that the other side of stimulus talks can finally see what Democrats have been "saying all along." Noting she'll pray for President Trump amid his COVID-19 diagnosis, she added that the coronavirus is a "vicious virus." Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Pelosi are still $700 billion apart during stimulus talks. But Pelosi is hopeful that the talks will continue, as House Democrats passed Thursday a $2.2 trillion stimulus bill. On Friday, the House took its last votes of the week before their planned October recess, noted CNBC. They aren't expected to return until after elections. According to Majority Leader Steny Hoyer's office, they will return to Washington to pass the aid bill and get 24 hours notice before a vote. Pelosi Remains Hopeful Pelosi also believed the diagnosis of the president might "speed up" the agreement. Despite the billions of dollars difference on the stimulus price tag, she is still "optimistic" that there will be a deal. In a letter to House Democrats, she said: "Our negotiations with the Administration continue, and I am hopeful that we can reach an agreement." She also outlined some sticking points in the talks, as reported by USA Today. Some sticking points include unemployment insurance, funding for schools, states, and local government and child tax credits. The negotiations also touched on testing and tracing funds and appropriations for Democratic priorities like transit funding. Areas of Friction White House economic adviser Stephen Moore told Business Insider that the White House and Democrats appear to becoming close to a compromise. But Moore added that Trump's diagnosis changed little on the bill. He said both sides of the debate were closing in on differences on state aid and federal unemployment benefits. These two areas of the stimulus were major areas of friction. "I think you could get a deal soon, even sooner than ten days," Moore said. He believed there was now a 65% chance there will be a deal in the next two weeks. Moore said he advised Trump against a stimulus package two weeks ago. He argued that the benefits of it would only materialize by early next year. But he also said Trump might look for a way in the next month to boost his reelection case. Moore said Trump is in need of "victory" through the deal. "He thinks it'll help the country but also help him politically," Moore said. In recent months, Republicans have looked for more COVID-19 relief, but a deal was proving itself hard to come by as Democrats' offer was expensive and held unreasonable demands. While at Walter Reed National Medical Center on Saturday, Trump pushed for a deal while being treated for COVID-19. "OUR GREAT USA WANTS & NEEDS STIMULUS. WORK TOGETHER AND GET IT DONE. Thank you!" he tweeted. Check these out! White House Increases Stimulus Offer to $1.6 Trillion Trump, First Lady in Quarantine After Senior Aide Gets COVID-19 Second Stimulus: McConnell Says Negotiators are 'Very, Very Far Apart' A 22-year-old Nepalese woman travelled all the way from Lucknow to file a rape case here in Maharashtra against a man, police said on Monday. Since the man warned her against approaching police in connection with the alleged offence that took place in the Uttar Pradesh capital, the woman fled from there and somehow managed to reach Nagpur, located over 800 km from Lucknow. She came to a friend here who helped her in lodging a zero FIR, they said. A zero First information Report (FIR) can be filed in any police station and it can be later transferred to the appropriate police station having competent jurisdiction. As per the womans complaint, she came to India from Nepal in 2018 for a job. Since March this year, she was staying with a woman friend in the latters rented flat on Faizabad Road in Lucknow, senior police inspector Wazeer Sheikh, from Nagpurs Koradi police station, told PTI. The friend introduced the victim to the accused, Pravin Rajpal Yadav, a Lucknow native who worked as software engineer in Dubai, on a video call. According to the victim, she had kept Rs 1.5 lakh with her friend and when she asked for it, the latter did not return the money and started beating and harassing her. The victim complained about this to Yadav, who then booked a room for the victim at a hotel in Lucknow and asked her to shift there, the official said. After a couple of days, the accused also came to Lucknow from Dubai. He met the victim at the hotel, where he allegedly drugged her and raped her, the official said. The accused also shot some objectionable photographs and videos of the victim. He also took her to a friends place in Lucknow where he allegedly again gave her drugs and raped her, the official said. The accused later uploaded the victims photos on her social media accounts and threatened to make them viral if she did not listen to him or approached police, the official said. The woman somehow managed to escape from Lucknow and came to a Nepalese friend in Nagpur on September 30. They went to Koradi police station here and lodged a complaint against Yadav and the victims woman friend from Lucknow, the official said. Based on the complaint, the police on Saturday lodged a zero FIR against the accused under Indian Penal Code Sections 376 (rape), 354 (molestation), 392 (robbery), 342 (wrongful confinement), 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating), he said. The victim along with a police team, the case papers and a cover letter of the Nagpur DCP left for Lucknow on Sunday night for registration of the case with Chinhat police in Lucknow, the official said. CARLINVILLE Macoupin County will continue to have a powerful economic development tool as the result of a decision by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Macoupin County is one of seven areas in the state to have its enterprise zone application approved by the state. The approved application, which is an expansion of Macoupin Countys existing Enterprise Zone, becomes effective on Jan. 1. The approved enterprise zone includes the new communities of Staunton, Bunker Hill and Royal Lakes, as well as additional unincorporated areas of the county. The current participating communities of Carlinville and Gillespie are also in the new zone. Illinois remains open for business, and we are committed to supporting our economically depressed communities with tools proven to attract investment to all corners of our state, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Director Erin Guthrie said. With the renewal of these seven enterprise zones, we look forward to continuing our work with local officials to support new investments and economic growth across our downstate communities. All seven applications submitted as part of the 2020 review process were approved and represent renewals or modifications of previously authorized enterprise zones. The applications were evaluated based on statutory criteria ranging from anticipated investment and job creation/retention to the communities commitment to diversity and inclusion, according to the departments announcement. Warren Ribley of Chicago-based WCR Enterprises was hired by Macoupin County governmental entities to prepare the application on their behalf. Ribley, who was the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity director under Gov. Pat Quinn, said Macoupin Countys application scored the second highest of the seven submitted. The communities worked very well together. We had great support from the elected officials and the business community, Ribley said. It was a good collective effort. They took it seriously and worked hard to make sure they set up the county for investment to the best extent they can. Ribley said it took six months to prepare and submit Macoupin Countys application. The process involved meeting the 11 different criteria under which the application is evaluated. A public hearing was held, each of the communities had to pass an ordinance and inter-governmental agreement for their participation in the zone, Ribley said. You have to describe your infrastructure plans, demonstrate how investment will have an impact on equalized assessed valuation, show that there have been plant layoffs, and show that there are workforce preparedness tools available to prepare people for the jobs that are hopefully going to be generated. The locally administered enterprise zones act as a stimulus to attract investment by private companies for job creation. That stimulus is driven by incentives that are available to those companies that locate or expand in the zone. Any building materials that are used in the expansion, new project or renovation are exempt from Illinois and local sales taxes. Theres an investment tax credit that the company qualifies for which is an offset against its Illinois corporate income tax. Under the ordinances that the local units of government pass theres also a local property tax abatement for up to 10 years. We included territory that is out around the interstate coming off of Illinois 16 and down around the Staunton area, those are both seen as high growth potential areas, Ribley said. Each of the communities had designated territory that they have targeted for investment. There was some rationale why some areas were put in, it was based on where they saw the best potential for either new development or the expansion of existing companies. Carlinville Mayor Deanna Demuzio said the city has used its enterprise zone designation in the past and looks forward to continuing that use with the new zone. The city of Carlinville is excited about the economic development opportunities offered by the new enterprise zone. Its an effective local tool that we can use to attract new business, assist our existing businesses and add new jobs, Demuzio said. Carlinvilles proximity between the Metro East and Springfield offers an accessible community with a great quality of life sought by employers and employees. The Macoupin County enterprise zone was expanded in 2006 to include areas adjacent to the Interstate 55 corridor. The boundary expansion that year also extended the zones original 2011 termination date by 10 years, to 2021. The other six enterprise zone approvals announced this week by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity were for Altamont/Effingham County, Clark County, Lincoln and the 394 Corridor, Saline County, Taylorville/Christian County, and Williamson County. Under a law passed a few years ago, every enterprise zone has a sunset date. Communities that desire to have a new zone designation have to come in with a new application, although there is no guarantee that any former designation will be renewed. Other existing area enterprise zones include Beardstown, Jacksonville/Morgan Countyand Jersey-Greene Intermodal. According to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, an estimated 4,570 jobs were created and nearly 38,000 jobs were retained as a result of more than $657 million in investment attributable to the enterprise zone program in 2019. Founder and CEO of CLEANLIFE, Justin Miller, reminds us that "a lot of attention was placed on frontline workers at the beginning of the pandemic. However, the need for PPE for protection is still there. The number of cases continues to grow and with the fall coming, the numbers are likely to increase. We wanted to help make sure that we could do our share as a community partner." "Corporate supporters like CLEANLIFE have been very generous during this unprecedented time. Corporate Supporters help to increase moral of our staff and build strong relationships while having a meaningful impact on UH patients," explained Ryan Sowers, Development Officer for Corporate Relations at UH. Earlier this summer, CLEANLIFE made donations to the Norma Herr Women's Shelter and the Zelma George Family Center located in Cleveland. Both locations serve those trying to get back into productive roles in society. In addition, the company donated hand sanitizer and 3-ply masks to FARE-Cle, an organization that provides transportation to individuals with developmental disabilities. CLEANLIFE got involved with PPE when the pandemic first hit in China. Miller was able to procure N95 and surgical masks when his LED lighting colleagues and contacts overseas advised this virus was going to be a problem. The company then registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to become authorized to sell these products and has begun kitting these products for distribution in vending machines, convenience stores, airports and other travel-centered locations. For more information or to purchase PPE products or kits, check out the company's website at www.cleanlife.com , email [email protected] or call 1-800-316-2532. CLEANLIFE LLC is an FDA registered importer and distributor of PPE (FDA Registration #3014404166). CLEANLIFE LED is a supplier of energy efficient LED lighting for commercial and residential applications. SOURCE CLEANLIFE LLC Related Links https://cleanlife.com/ On behalf of the entire Harper College community, I want to extend my sincerest condolences to her family and friends, Avis Proctor, president of Harper College, said in a statement. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time. The head of Saudi Arabia's Chambers of Commerce has called for a boycott of Turkish products amid merchants' reports that animosity between Ankara and Riyadh is hindering the flow of goods between the two regional powers. Saudi Arabia and Turkey have been at odds for some years over foreign policy and attitudes towards Islamist political groups. The murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Saudi's Istanbul consulate in 2018 escalated tensions sharply. This year the two countries blocked some of each other's news websites. "A boycott of everything Turkish, be it imports, investment or tourism, is the responsibility of every Saudi 'trader and consumer', in response to the continued hostility of the Turkish government against our leadership, country and citizens," businessman Ajlan al-Ajlan said on Twitter on Saturday. The Saudi Chambers of Commerce is a non-government group of private sector business officials. In response to a query from Reuters, Saudi Arabia's government media office said the Gulf Arab state was committed to international trade and investment pacts and free trade. "The official authorities in the Kingdom have not placed any restrictions on Turkish goods," it said. For more than a year, some Saudi and Turkish traders have speculated that Saudi Arabia was enforcing an informal boycott of imports from Turkey. A Saudi importer told Reuters on condition of anonymity that containers he imported this year from Turkey lay with customs for three months before being released. He said customs officials informally advised him not to import directly from Turkey again. Last week, Turkish opposition lawmaker Mehmet Gazelmansur said goods, particularly perishable fruit and vegetables, exported from his region of Hatay were held at the Saudi border for longer than necessary on arrival. Recommended Jamal Khashoggi killers avoid execution as widely criticised Saudi Arabia trial wraps up In comments reported in Turkish media and on his Twitter page, he said he was concerned that what he described as the partial, informal embargo by Saudi Arabia would be widened. On Thursday, Turkish president Tayyip Erdogan took a swipe at the Gulf states in a speech to parliament. "It should not be forgotten that the countries in question did not exist yesterday, and probably will not exist tomorrow," Mr Erdogan said. "But we will continue to fly our flag in this geography forever, with the permission of Allah." Neither Turkish nor Saudi trade data shows an unusually large drop in two-way trade this year, factoring in the strains on global commerce from the coronavirus pandemic. In the second quarter, Turkey was Saudi Arabia's 12th trade partner by total import value. The latest data shows Saudi imports from Turkey were worth about $185m (142.8m) in July, up from roughly $180m (139m) in June. Reuters The Buffalo Bills defense came up big when it had to Sunday, as the Bills defeated the Las Vegas Raiders 30-23. Bills beat writer Matt Parrino and Ryan Talbot discuss the win. Game Summary Score: Bills 30, Raiders 23 Total net yards Bills: 336 Total net yards Raiders: 383 Team rushing Bills: 62 yards Team rushing Raiders: 86 yards Team passing Bills: 289 yards Team passing Raiders: 312 yards Penalties: Bills 5 for 81 yards | Raiders 7 for 66 yards Box Score Up next: Buffalo Bills (4-0) at Tennessee Titans (3-0), 1 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 11, CBS Read more Josh Allens 3 touchdowns lead Bills to 30-23 road win vs. Raiders (Instant observations) Bills: Bon Jovi jabs Buffalo over stadium naming rights cost Cuomo eager to get Buffalo Bills fans back at games: Were working on it Nikes new Buffalo Bills sneaker Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 37 is here | How to buy it Toronto police are looking for a male suspect after a woman was sexually assaulted in a vehicle on Sept. 3, 2018. A man and 21-year-old woman were at a bar in the area of Wellington Street and Bathurst Street, and the woman was offered a ride home by a man in a newer white or silver Hyundai car. Police say that between 3:15 a.m. and 4 a.m., the vehicle was parked in a lot near Dee Avenue and Weston Road, and the woman was allegedly assaulted in the vehicle. The suspect is described as black, between 30 and 35 years old, six feet tall with short black hair and facial hair. Police released a photo of the suspect on Monday. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7474. RS Rhythm Sachdeva is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: rsachdeva@thestar.ca (UPDATE: Charges filed against man shot by Michigan State Police trooper) FLINT, MI -- An investigation is underway after a Michigan State Police trooper shot a 28-year-old Burton man in the city of Flint. The incident began at approximately 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4, after police were dispatched to the 500 block of East Gillespie Avenue on the citys north side for a domestic disturbance involving a man and a woman. The female caller reported to police the man had fired a gun into the air outside of the residence prior to leaving and walking down Esther Street, according to a Michigan State Police news release. The man was reported to have the firearm in his possession, police said. A trooper from the Michigan State Police Flint post observed a man fitting the description headed west on East Pasadena Avenue. The trooper ordered the man to get down on the ground. The trooper discharged a department-issued firearm during a brief exchange with the man, police said. The trooper rendered first aid on the man, who was transported to a local hospital where he was listed in stable condition. A four-year veteran of the Michigan State Police, the trooper has been placed on paid administrative leave -- department protocol while the investigation is underway. Detectives from outside of the district are conducting the investigation. Read more: Genesee County voters to elect new sheriff for first time in two decades More than 60 firefighters, 400K gallons of water used fighting fire at Mr. Chips near Pinconning Pair of fatal shootings in Burton calculated acts, police chief says Michigan AG will no longer enforce governors executive orders after court ruling Bret: With Trump, the relevant movie references have to be either really dark or really absurd. When his administration isnt the Russian roulette scene in The Deer Hunter, its the Stonehenge scene in This Is Spinal Tap. Gail: By the way, Im so sorry theres not going to be a regular Halloween this year. I love the costumes. In my neighborhood Ill bet wed have seen at least one little Ruth Bader Ginsburg wearing a halo. Bret: If some kid knocks on my door dressed as Swearing Melania, shell get all the candy. Gail: Speaking of the Supreme Court, any predictions on the Amy Coney Barrett nomination? I presume Mitch McConnell will hold a vote even if he has to wheel in his members in oxygen tents. Bret: Since McConnell has broken all his own rules when it comes to this nomination, I assume hes not above breaking Senate rules as well. I can picture coronavirus-positive Republican senators like Utahs Mike Lee and North Carolinas Thom Tillis arriving for the Judiciary Committee hearings in hazmat suits. What Im less sure of is whether Democrats can use the quorum-call rule, which requires that at least 50 Senators have to be present for the chamber to conduct its business, to block a final vote. Those Republicans would have to be so physically incapacitated that it couldnt happen. Then again, you probably remember the time when Pete Wilson, then a senator representing California, arrived in the chamber from a hospital bed, in bathrobe and pajamas, to vote aye on Reagans 1986 budget. Gail: When Congress voted for womens suffrage 100 years ago, one congressman, Henry Barnhart of Indiana, had himself carried in on a stretcher to vote yes. Just wanted to add a more progressive cause to the list of things that can get a politician out of a sickbed. Sorry, back to Mitch McConnell and the Supreme Court Bret: I still think Barretts going to get a vote and get on the court. Meantime theres no use not asking the question what do you think might happen if the president moves toward, um, a separate plane of existence? Gail: Well, if the moving happened real soon, Mike Pence would just become president. Bret: OK, now I am rooting extra hard for the president to pull through this, Gail. India's third Covid wave likely to peak on Jan 23, daily cases to stay below 4 lakh: IIT Kanpur scientist India logs over 3.17 lakh new Covid cases in last 24 hours; daily positivity rate up at 16.41 per cent India-US to sign BECA for geo-spatial cooperation India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 05: India and the United States will sign the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) for geo-spatial cooperation during the India-US plus two dialogue which is expected to take place on October 26-27. BECA is important for India to acquire armed drones such as the MQ-9B from the US. The UAV uses spatial data for precise strikes on enemy targets. BECA is significant as it would allow India to use global geo-spatial maps of the US for accuracy of cruise and ballistic missiles. The two nations have already activated all three foundational agreements with both using each others facilities for replenishment and refuelling. India-Bangladesh navies hold joint drill The US ministers during the meeting will meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval. The agreement would also allow both India and US to to share military information about threats on land and Indo-Pacific. JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News During the meet, the Afghanistan issue too will be discussed. Further the meeting would also take up the Pakistan issue. India would address concerns about terror groups such as the Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Tayiba which continue to undertake acts of terror in Jammu and Kashmir. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 8:23 [IST] Egyptian Karim Farrag displays a picture of his brother Mohamed who went missing in Libya while trying to get to Europe Thousands of desperate migrants bound for Europe have perished in the Mediterranean Sea. In one impoverished Egyptian town, families fear that 15 of their sons are among the dead. The Nile delta cotton-growing town of Dahmasha already feels like a ghost town. Hundreds of its young men have embarked on the dangerous journey via war-torn Libya. Now a group of tearful, black-clad mothers and wives fear the worst after hearing reports, so far unconfirmed by authorities, that a rickety boat carrying their loved ones sank last month. Crammed minibuses arranged by human traffickers had left the town northeast of Cairo for lawless Libya in mid-August, carrying 37 young men who had each paid 70,000 Egyptian pounds ($3,775). About a month later, the International Organization for Migration reported that at least 20 migrants, mainly from Egypt and Morocco, had drowned when a boat capsized off Libya on September 14. Two of the dead have since been returned to Dahmasha, and a short, undated video surfaced online over the weekend apparently showing 20 survivors. But there has been no word from the remaining 15. "I just want a one percent fighting chance... to hear something that will quench my thirst for knowing where my son is," one mother, Horreya Farrag, told AFP. She said she last heard from her 24-year-old son, Mohamed Farrag, hours before he boarded the boat on September 12 from the Libyan port of Zawiya, headed for the Italian island of Lampedusa. - 'Dead before you get there' - Farrag, a house painter and the eldest of three siblings, left behind a young wife and a two-month-old son in Dahmasha, a town of 18,000 people some 50 kilometres (30 miles) northeast of Cairo. "He was the kindest of all of them," said his widowed mother. "I raised the three of them to be as close as a fist." The missing man's 23-year-old brother Karim said: "He had approached me about joining, but I told him: 'I'm not going. You're dead even before you get there. You're holding your own funeral shroud in your hands'." Fadilaa Ali and Zenab Abdelmoulaa mourn over their relatives who went missing in Libya while trying to get to Europe The families say they have received no information from Egyptian authorities. AFP also received no reply after reaching out to Egypt's emigration ministry. Egyptian MP Sahar Atman said she had enquired about the missing men with the Egyptian cabinet and foreign ministry. Last week, she said on Facebook that 20 of the men had survived and preparations were under way to return them to Egypt. In a video that circulated on Facebook on Saturday, which Dahmasha's residents shared widely, tired and haggard young men from the village listed the names of relatives who had perished on the trip. Some family members confirmed their identities but could not verify the claims as the apparent survivors still had not been in touch with them directly. - 'Feel our pain' - The journey the men took became a terrifying ordeal long before they reached the shores of the Mediterranean, said the villagers. Rawya Abdalla, 38, recounted how her brother-in-law Ahmed frantically rang her from Libya, pleading for his family to send ransom money to traffickers who were holding him. "One day he called me, completely panicked, begging me to send him money so we can free him. He said they weren't feeding them or giving them water," Abdalla told AFP. "He was held hostage in a storage warehouse for 25 days and they also whipped them for what they deemed to be the smallest mistake, for talking to each other." After selling the family car, they gave 20,000 pounds to the local smuggler who said he would pay the ransom. The claims echo a report by rights group Amnesty International last month that described how migrants in Libya were being "abducted by militias, armed groups and traffickers" and being "tortured or raped until their families pay ransoms". Egyptian Rawya Abdalla shows a picture of her relatives, among 17 Egyptians that went missing in Libya Tens of thousands of migrants have made the perilous sea journey toward Europe in 2020 alone, according to the IOM, though Egyptians make up a relatively small contingent of those from Africa. Abdalla said locals are still desperate for information from President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's government, and for help in addressing the hardship faced by them and many of the country's over 100 million people. "We're asking the president to feel our pain," she said in the small town, where many fields are parched because irrigation channels have run dry. "What should our youths do? Kill or steal to survive? They are migrating to bring back some money legitimately. "We've lost our sons and our money," she said. "We've lost everything. We have nothing. We want their corpses so we can bury them here." Advertisement These images show Britain's HMS Queen Elizabeth leading the largest and most powerful task force assembled by a European Navy in almost 20 years. The 3billion aircraft carrier - the joint largest in the Royal Navy's history - was the crown jewel in a flotilla of nine ships which form the UK's new Carrier Strike Group. Yesterday it assembled at sea for the first time off the north east coast of Scotland as part of Joint Warrior - NATO's largest annual exercise. The 930ft long aircraft carrier led the flotilla of destroyers and frigates from the UK, US and the Netherlands, together with two Royal Fleet Auxiliaries. In total, 3,000 personnel from the UK, US and Netherlands were involved. These images show Britain's HMS Queen Elizabeth (pictured centre) leading the most powerful task force assembled by an European Navy in almost 20 years The 3billion aircraft carrier (pictured centre), which, along with its sister ship HMS Prince of Wales, is the largest in the Royal Navy's history, was the crown jewel in a flotilla of nine ships which make up a new carrier strike group Today the task force, including HMS Queen Elizabeth (pictured) assembled at sea for the first time off the north east coast of Scotland as part of Joint Warrior - NATO's largest annual exercise What was the Royal Navy's new Carrier Strike Group made up of? HMS Queen Elizabeth - Royal Navy Aircraft carrier - Weighs: 65,000 tonnes, Length: 930 feet, Speed: 25+ knots, Use: Carries 65 aircraft at surge capacity HMS Diamond - Royal Navy Type 45 Destroyer - Weighs: 8,000 tonnes, Length: 500 feet, Speed: 30+ knots, Weapons: Fleet of helicopters, anti-air and anti-ship missiles HMS Defender - Royal Navy Type 45 Destroyer - Weighs: 8,000 tonnes, Length: 500 feet, Speed: 30+ knots, Weapons: Fleet of helicopters, anti-air and anti-ship missiles USS The Sullivans - US Navy Destroyer - Weighs: 6,900 tonnes, Length: 505 feet, Speed: 30 knots, Weapons: Guided missiles, with guns, torpedoes and two helicopters HMS Northumberland - Royal Navy Frigate - Weighs: 4,900 tonnes, Length: 435 feet, Speed: 28+ knots, Weapons: Torpedoes and missiles HMS Kent - Royal Navy Frigate - Weighs: 4,900 tonnes, Length: 435 feet, Speed: 28+ knots, Weapons: Torpedoes and missiles HNLMS Eversten - Royal Netherlands Navy Frigate - Weighs: 6,000 tonnes, Length: 470 metres, Speed: 28+ knots, Weapons: Guns, missiles and helicopters RFA Tideforce - Royal Fleet Auxiliary Ships - Weighs: 37,000 tonnes, Length: 201 metres, Speed: 27+ knots, Weapons: Cannons, Primary Use: Replenishment tanker RFA Fort Victoria - Royal Fleet Auxiliary Ships - Weighs: 37,000 tonnes, Length: 201 metres, Speed: 27+ knots, Weapons: Cannons, Primary Use: Replenishment tanker The group also includes 15 fighter jets, 11 helicopters and 3,000 personnel from the UK, US and the Netherlands Advertisement Meanwhile, HMS Queen Elizabeth embarked two squadrons of F-35B stealth jets, the UK's 617 Squadron and US Marine Corps fighter attack squadron 211. Alongside eight Merlin helicopters of 820 and 846 Naval Air Squadrons, it is the largest air group to operate from a Royal Navy carrier in more than thirty years, and the largest air group of fifth generation fighters at sea anywhere in the world, say the Royal Navy. The task force meanwhile is the largest assembled by an European Navy in almost 20 years. Commodore Steve Moorhouse, Commander UK Carrier Strike Group, said: 'The new UK Carrier Strike Group is the embodiment of British maritime power, and sits at the heart of a modernised and emboldened Royal Navy. 'Protected by a ring of advanced destroyers, frigates, helicopters and submarines, and equipped with fifth generation fighters, HMS Queen Elizabeth is able to strike from the sea at a time and place of our choosing; and with our Nato allies at our side, we will be ready to fight and win in the most demanding circumstances. 'Carrier Strike offers Britain choice and flexibility on the global stage. It reassures our friends and allies and presents a powerful deterrent to would-be adversaries.' The Carrier Strike Group includes NATO's most sophisticated destroyers the Royal Navy's Type 45s HMS Diamond and HMS Defender and US Navy Arleigh Burke-class USS The Sullivans. It also contains frigates HMS Northumberland and HMS Kent from the UK and the Dutch Navy's HNLMS Evertsen. They will not only protect the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers from enemy ships, submarines, aircraft and missiles, but are also capable of conducting a range of supporting missions, from maritime security to disaster relief. Meanwhile, two Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships, RFA Tideforce and RFA Fort Victoria, will supply fuel, food, spares and ammunition, to enabled sustained operations from the sea without host nation support. Commander Vince Owen, Commanding Officer of HMS Defender, said: 'Providing air and missile defence to a Carrier Strike Group is exactly the task HMS Defender and the Type 45 has been designed to do. 'Having previously supported the French aircraft carrier FGS Charles de Gaulle in the fight against ISIL in 2015 and more recently been part of the USS Abraham Lincoln task group as she transited through the Strait of Hormuz last year, it is exciting to be integrating HMS Defender into the UK-led Carrier Strike Group for the first time. The Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier led the flotilla of destroyers and frigates from the UK, US and the Netherlands, together with two Royal Fleet Auxiliaries HMS Queen Elizabeth embarked two squadrons of F-35B stealth jets, the UK's 617 Squadron and US Marine Corps fighter attack squadron 211 Commodore Steve Moorhouse (pictured), Commander UK Carrier Strike Group, said: 'The new UK Carrier Strike Group is the embodiment of British maritime power, and sits at the heart of a modernised and emboldened Royal Navy Big Lizzie: The 930ft-long 3billion aircraft carrier which is the joint largest in Royal Navy history HMS Queen Elizabeth - named after 16th century monarch Elizabeth I - is the lead ship of the Queen Elizabeth-Class of aircraft carriers. Its sister ship is HMS Prince of Wales. The ships, which together cost more than 6billion, are the largest in the history of the Royal Navy. At 72,000 tons and 932 feet long, the HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier is taller than Nelsons Column and considerably wider than the M25 at its widest point. She generates enough energy to power Swindon, she can produce 500 tons of fresh water a day and travel 500 miles a day, too. Last month, it was reported that flagship aircraft carrier will set out on its first operational mission with more US than British warplanes on board, under plans being examined by defence chiefs. HMS Queen Elizabeth could deploy with as many as 20 US F-35 jets and just 16 UK F-35s under one scenario, defence sources told the Daily Mail. The Ministry of Defence is expected to rely on US jets to fill a gap in numbers because it has been too slow to buy its own F-35s. The aircraft carrier is expected to set sail on its first deployment in May next year. Advertisement 'Having just successfully completed a period of Basic Operational Sea Training over the summer, the men and women that make up my ship's company are motivated and ready to take part in the next stage of our training in preparation for deploying with the Carrier Strike Group next year.' Cdr Rick Ongering, Commanding Officer of HNLMS Evertsen, added: 'The Royal Netherlands Navy and the Royal Navy have been very close maritime partners for decades. 'Our marines have been working together through the UK-Netherlands Amphibious Force for almost fifty years and our ships regularly undertake Fleet Operational Sea Training in the UK. 'However, the opportunity to accompany HMS Queen Elizabeth is a new experience and HNLMS Evertsen is excited to be working with the UK Carrier Strike Group during Exercise Joint Warrior this October.' HMS Queen Elizabeth - named after 16th century monarch Elizabeth I - is the lead ship of the Queen Elizabeth-Class of aircraft carriers. Its sister ship is HMS Prince of Wales. The ships, which together cost more than 6billion, are the largest in the history of the Royal Navy. At 72,000 tons and 932 feet long, the HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier is taller than Nelsons Column and considerably wider than the M25 at its widest point. She generates enough energy to power Swindon, she can produce 500 tons of fresh water a day and travel 500 miles a day, too. Last month, it was reported that flagship aircraft carrier will set out on its first operational mission with more US than British warplanes on board, under plans being examined by defence chiefs. HMS Queen Elizabeth could deploy with as many as 20 US F-35 jets and just 16 UK F-35s under one scenario, defence sources told the Daily Mail. The Ministry of Defence is expected to rely on US jets to fill a gap in numbers because it has been too slow to buy its own F-35s. The aircraft carrier is expected to set sail on its first deployment in May next year. Last month, the departure of the ship from Portsmouth on training exercises was delayed for a second day in a row after sailors tested positive for Covid-19. A MoD spokesman said 'fewer than ten' of the 1,000-strong crew had tested positive and had gone ashore. Those who had contact with them will isolate on board. In April the ship had to delay sailing after two sailors tested positive. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 22:39:23|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close DAR ES SALAAM, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Tanzanian authorities said on Monday the number of foreign tourists visiting the east African nation has started to rise after the country re-opened its skies for international flights on May 18 in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hamisi Kigwangalla, the Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, said statistics registered from June showed that the number of foreign tourists has increased compared with April and May. In July, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area received 1,972 tourists compared with 202 tourists received in April, he told a news conference in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam. Kigwangalla added that the Tanzania National Parks Authority received a total of 3,666 tourists in July compared with 517 tourists received in April. "Tanzania welcomes all visitors while observing our guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19," said the official. In 2019, Tanzania received 1,527,230 tourists and generated 2.6 billion U.S. dollars in revenue. The tourism sector supports about 1.6 million direct and indirect jobs, according to Kigwangalla. Enditem The University of Connecticut is not alone in asking the state for help in making ends meet during this year of COVID. The Connecticut State College and University system, representing 17 public colleges and universities, needs $69 million in the current fiscal year to avoid dipping into reserves, system officials said on Monday. In a letter to Gov. Ned Lamont, Board of Regents President Mark E. Ojakian said the system is in a dire financial situation because of enrollment declines, fewer residential students and unforeseen expenses, most related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Without additional state and federal funding, serious cuts threatening student-facing services and the long term viability of our institutions will have to be considered, Ojakian said in his two-page letter. The request comes a week after the University of Connecticut asked for a $104 million bailout to help stay afloat. On Monday, Max Reiss, a Lamont spokesman, called the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic real and significant. Governor Lamont is taking seriously the economic fallout, presenting a deficit mitigation plan for state operations last week, Reiss said. The administration will continue to engage with all state agencies and institutions regarding their financial situations as a result of this pandemic. Later in his afternoon news briefing, Lamont said the CSCU system joins UConn and a whole other lot of entities in coming to the state looking for more support in a trying economic year. The money we got from the federal government from the CARES Act ... is specific to COVID expenses so it is not like I can just hand out federal money for broader purposes like backing up our universities. Lamont said. That said, he promised to do what he could to offer support. The Board of Regents finance committee will meet on Wednesday, but the board was forewarned of the fiscal red ink last month. In the fall of 2019, the system had a total head count of 79,098 students. This fall, preliminary, that number has dropped to 68,852, Enrollment at the states four regional universities is said to be down 5.5 percent and dorms are barely at 50 percent at capacity; that has caused a $52.5 million shortfall, according to Ben Barnes, chief financial officer for the system. At the states 12 community colleges, enrollment was down 15 percent, leading to a $16.5 million shortfall, he said. On the other hand, the systems Charter Oak State College, an online program, saw a 4 percent increase in students. Ojakian said the system is not blindly asking for a bailout. He blamed much of the shortfall on the pandemic, which shut campuses in the spring and forced the system to make room and board refunds. Ojakian said the system spent $45 million since March on COVID. A federal CARES Act relief payout only covered $33 million in relief funds. This year, some students have returned to campuses but class and residence hall occupancy has been kept low. Many classes have been kept online or in some sort of hybrid fashion. There is a whole list of efforts being made internally, Ojakian said. A hiring freeze has been instituted. There was a 2 percent reduction in non-salary budgets. Overtime expenses have been reduced and a cut was made in adjunct faculty. The system, however, is prohibited by a 2017 labor agreement from laying off unionized staff or preventing $20 million in raises to go through. Ojakian said furloughs are being considered but cannot be implemented without union concessions. Last month, Barnes wrote to union leaders asking for help. In response, Patricia ONeill, president of the CSU-AAUP chapter and a professor at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury recommended the system should halt the Students First initiative that seeks to combine the states 12 community colleges into one. The union went on to suggest nearly a dozen other ways the system should either increase revenue or cut costs. Ojakian said the response did not seriously address the shortfall and said the merger of the community colleges, still under review by the accrediting body, will not be halted. Without state help, the system will have to tap its $174 million cash reserves. By achieving a balanced budget that way, Barnes said, university reserves could be cut by 40 percent and the community college reserve could be cut in half. Even though reserves are kept for emergencies and the pandemic is an emergency, Barnes said they would be brought to a thin margin he described as not responsible. Financial viability is something accreditors look at seriously, Barnes said, adding, and no one knows how Fiscal Year 2022 will go. In addition to help with its deficit, the system is also asking the governor and legislature to fund PACT, a free college tuition program approved by the legislature but not funded. The Board of Regents started the program this fall using $3.3 million in reserve funds. The Board of Regents was told last month that 3,147 students are taking advantage of the program which covers the gap between the federal and state grants and the cost of attending community college full time. To continue into the spring, Ojakian said the state will have to pick up the cost. lclambeck@ctpost.com; twitter/lclambeck Dr Sudhir Gupta, who headed the AIIMS panel tasked with re-evaluating Sushant Singh Rajputs post-mortem report, has responded to news stories circulating about his alleged change of heart. An old interview of Dr Gupta, in which he says that protocol wasnt followed by officials who conducted Sushants post-mortem, resurfaced on Monday, days after he said that the actor died by suicide. The doctor confirmed that with the knowledge that he has now, and didnt a few months ago, there can be no doubt that Sushant died by suicide. He also responded to a viral video that claimed that he earlier thought Sushant Singh Rajput was murdered. Yes, everyone doubted when CBI started its investigation. We investigated all doubts and then came with this opinion. Now, there should be no doubts. It was a seven member team of doctors who came to this conclusion that SSR died by suicide, he told India Today. Dr Gupta said that when he had made his previous statement, crime scene pictures hadnt been made available to the forensics team. On Saturday, while speaking to media, Dr Gupta ruled out the murder theory. There were no injuries on the body other than of hanging. There were no marks of struggle/scuffle on the body and clothes of the deceased, Dr Gupta told ANI, adding, The presence of any sedative material was not detected by Bombay FSL and AIIMS toxicology lab. The complete examination of ligature mark over the neck was consistent with hanging. Many, including Sushants sister and Vikas Singh, the lawyer representing the family, have expressed dissatisfaction with the AIIMS report. Shweta in a social media post said that all eyes are on the CBI, as the family awaits official word on the case. This kind of U-turn must be investigated, Shweta had demanded in an Instagram post, reacting to Dr Guptas resurfaced interview. Also read: Sushant Singh Rajputs sister demands probe into AIIMS Dr Sudhir Gupta, cites flip-flop as he rules out murder Vikas Singh had tweeted, Highly perturbed with AIIMS report. Going to request CBI Director to constitute a fresh Forensic team . How could AIIMS team give a conclusive report in the absence of the body,that too on such shoddy post mortem done by Cooper hospital wherein time of death also not mentioned. Sushant died on June 14. The investigation into his death is being conducted by the CBI. The Narcotics Control Bureau and the Enforcement Directorate are probing separate angles in the case. If you need support or know someone who does, please reach out to your nearest mental health specialist. Helplines: Aasra: 022 2754 6669; Sneha India Foundation: +914424640050 and Sanjivini: 011-24311918 Follow @htshowbiz for more SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Vologda Region resident fined for going on work trip when being COVID-19 positive RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov 15:55 05/10/2020 MOSCOW, October 5 (RAPSI) A court in Russias Vologda Region has fined a local man 20,000 rubles for going on a business trip when being infected with coronavirus despite a medical ban, RAPSI has learnt from the press service of the regional courts. In June, the man tested positive for COVID-19 and was ordered to self-isolation until recovery. A few days later it was revealed that he was not at home and therefore violated legislative requirements and sanitary provisions, the statement reads. The administrative defendant objected to the court decision insisting that he failed to infect any other person and claiming that doctors muddled up the analysis. Ebiquity Promotes Nair for Asia Pacific Growth UK-based marketing and media consultancy Ebiquity has promoted Leela Nair to the role of Managing Director, Asia Pacific. Founded in 1997 as Thomson Intermedia, Ebiquity comprises an Analytics division, offering media buying measurement and benchmarking, and performance measurement; and a 'Platform' division which provides media monitoring products. Nair (pictured) joined in Singapore in 2015 as MD Southeast Asia, having previously held management positions at Mindshare, GroupM, Universal McCann, Zenith and OMD in both Singapore and Australia, including time as Managing Director of OMD International Asia Pacific. Commenting on the promotion, CEO Nick Waters said: 'I am looking forward to working with Leela to further develop our business in Asia Pacific. The region is highly dynamic, fast moving, and home to two thirds of the world's population, and represents a strong growth opportunity for our company. I can think of no-one better to lead our growth in the region'. Web site: www.ebiquity.com . YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. The Aurora Humanitarian Initiative founders, Noubar Afeyan, Vartan Gregorian and Ruben Vardanyan, today announced a commitment of $2 million in assistance to cover immediate needs in Armenia and Artsakh and to secure funding to provide educational and other support for the young generation of the two Armenian republics affected by the war, the IDeA Foundation told Armenpress. The Afeyan, Gregorian and Vardanyan families are donating $1 million to Hayastan All Armenian Fund to join forces with citizens of Armenia and Artsakh, members of the global Armenian community and friends of Armenians. In addition, the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative and UWC Dilijan School, both international Armenia-based organizations, announced the establishment of a $1 million special fund and the launch of international fundraising campaigns to secure further funding which will be used for initiatives focused on education and well-being of Armenian children affected by the war. We are deeply alarmed and saddened by the large-scale military action unleashed against Artsakh and the outburst of armed conflict in the region. These violent attacks carried out by Azerbaijan with the support of Turkey constitute a gross violation of international law. We condemn in the strongest terms the escalation of violence by targeting civilians with large caliber weapons and attacks on the civilian infrastructure, stated the co-founders of the Aurora Humanitarian Initiative. In 2015, on the centennial commemoration of the Armenian Genocide perpetrated by Ottoman Turks, we launched our international prize and humanitarian initiative to honor the memory of those who saved Armenians. We never imagined that Armenians would need support to survive aggressions in modern times, as we do today. We thank all those who are lending a hand at this time of extreme need. To continue, please log in, or sign up for a new account. We offer one free story view per month. If you register for an account, you will get two additional story views. After those three total views, we ask that you support us with a subscription. A subscription to our digital content is so much more than just access to our valuable content. It means youre helping to support a local community institution that has, from its very start, supported the betterment of our society. Thank you very much! An expert panel constituted by the Nepal government to gather historical evidences for backing the country's claim over three strategically-important Indian areas of Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura has submitted its report to Minister for Foreign Affairs Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, according to official sources here. Nepal in May released the revised political and administrative map of the country laying claim over the three strategically important areas in Uttarakhand, more than six months after India published a new map in November 2019. India has already termed as untenable the "artificial enlargement" of the territorial claims by Nepal after its Parliament unanimously approved the new political map of the country featuring Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura areas which India maintains belongs to it. New Delhi has also said that Kathmandu's action violated an understanding reached between the two countries to resolve the boundary issues through talks. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in May said that the revised map of Nepal included parts of the Indian territory and asked Kathmandu to respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. "This unilateral act is not based on historical facts and evidence. It is contrary to the bilateral understanding to resolve the outstanding boundary issues through diplomatic dialogue. Such artificial enlargement of territorial claims will not be accepted by India," it had said, adding that Nepal is well aware of India's consistent position on the matter. "We urge the government of Nepal to refrain from such unjustified cartographic assertion and respect India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. We hope that the Nepalese leadership will create a positive atmosphere for diplomatic dialogue to resolve the outstanding boundary issues," the MEA had said. Foreign Minister Gyawali told reporters that as per the expert committee report, the Treaty of Sugauli signed in 1816 between Nepal and the East India Company has been considered the main basis for the demarcation of Nepal's boundary with India. The objective of the committee was to prepare Nepal's position paper in boundary negotiations and they have done this job well, the minister told Republica daily. The committee has gathered a number of evidences to prove Nepal's long-held position that the land east of the Kali river, which originates in Limpiyadhura, falls within the Nepalese territories. Gyawali said that the Nepal government is ready to hold talks with the Indian side anytime. In the course of its study, the panel interviewed eminent personalities from various fields including historians, former government officials, diplomats, heads of security agencies, bureaucrats, politicians and journalists. The India-Nepal bilateral ties came under strain after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated an 80-km-long strategically crucial road connecting the Lipulekh pass with Dharchula in Uttarakhand on May 8. Nepal reacted sharply to the inauguration of the road claiming that it passed through Nepalese territory. India rejected the claim asserting that the road lies completely within its territory. Of all the images of Julian Assange made public over the years, three are indelibly haunting, even if, as we look at them, their import comes to us subliminally. These pictures date to the spring and autumn of 2019, when the WikiLeaks founder was arrested and imprisoned in London as a British court considered an American extradition request. In all three, he is photographed behind a pane of glass, a little as if he were a sea creature in an aquarium near, yet beyond our reach. In all three, he is confined in a security van about to take him away from crowds of press people, supporters and, we have to assume, some stray passersby. These are pictures of departures, then. When we look at them we find ourselves among those gathered at the scene and left behind. On the other side of the glass, with its strange reflections and refracted light, Assange is framed for us. He is remote within the frame, as figures in portrait paintings are remote. Even as he leaves us, Assange is already gone. There is a Reuters photograph taken on 11 April 2019, the day Assange was arrested. Plainclothes police officers have carried him, corpse-like, down the steps of the Ecuadorian embassy in Knightsbridge. His hair is long and brushed back severely, and he wears an unruly beard. From the police vans window he offers a resolute stare. Handcuffed, he raises both forearms to manage a thumbs-up gesture. The band of a London cops cap is visible behind him. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 5) - The Senate has approved on second reading the bill granting franchise to San Miguel Corporation (SMC) to establish and operate an international airport in Bulacan. Under House Bill No. 7507, the franchise will be in effect for 50 years, inclusive of the 10-year maximum period for the design, planning, and construction of the New Manila International Airport and the adjacent Airport City in the town of Bulakan. Further, the proposed measure seeks to grant SMC an exemption from any direct or indirect taxes and fees of any kind, related to the construction and development of the 2,500-hectare airport. After the construction period and the remaining 40 years in the franchise, SMC shall be exempted from income taxes and property taxes until it has fully recovered the investment cost on the P735-billion project. The bill also provides a revenue-sharing agreement with government, requiring SMC to remit to the government any amount in excess of the 12% internal rate of return of the Airport City. Senator Grace Poe, who sponsored the franchise bill on the floor, said that the soon-to-rise airport is expected to generate jobs for many, including nearby residents and returning overseas Filipino workers. One million jobs are estimated to benefit from this. Not only the immediate employees, but the downstream industries there, she said. These residents, let's say if they relocate to areas close to the airport, they will be considered for immediately. Not only them, even our returning OFWs, who have the expertise but cannot return abroad now because of the pandemic, Poe added. She noted that the construction alone could provide 400,000 jobs. The New Manila International Airport is seen to decongest the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Its construction is expected to start this month. The bill was also recently approved at the House of Representatives on third and final reading. Viewers were left dumbfounded as "Teen Mom" star Jenelle Evans' husband David Eason cuddled a pair of cats notwithstanding his tendency to kill animals. The sacked reality star, 28, shared a video on Instagram Stories of Eason sitting on a chair outdoors and tickling a kitten under its chin. Did Jenelle Evans Leave Husband David Eason? Jenelle Evans is clapping back at people surmising that she left husband David Eason following the death of the family's pet goat at the hands of him. The Teen Mom 2 alum's fans believed she might have asked to separate from living with Eason. She recently posted perplexing messages on his Facebook page last week, asking what would he do with the cat and telling him, "Well, your things are ready to go [and] will be here when you get back," reported Pop Culture. Fluctuating Relationship Showbiz Cheat Sheet noted that it is confusing whether Jenelle Evans and David Eason are on stable good terms. At times, the situation between the couple seems stable expressing their love on each other's social media handles. At other times, they are alleging of abuse towards each other, reported Showbiz Cheat Sheet. On the 25th of September, the "Teen Mom 2" alum posted many wedding day throwback photographs on Instagram. Simultaneously, the reality show star cleared up the air on the status with her man. According to Jenelle Evans mentioning her husband David Eason in her caption, their day was perfect and that she is happy to have soldiered through the difficult times with her family. She called Eason her best friend through thick and thin, reported E! Online. Also Read: Jenelle Evans Husband David Eason May Return to Jail As New Evidence for Assault Charges Gathered YouTube Video Addressing Concerns After Evans' vlog intro, Eason defended himself for killing their dog, a French Bulldog named Nugget, in May last year. This was after the family dog bit their three-year-old daughter, Ensley. He explained that the dog was a loving dog to him but did not have the same behavior towards his children. Eason had an Instagram video up on the 13th of September displaying him eating the family's goat. He said the goat was named Elvis. Cradling Kittens Eason cradled two kittens in his arms as Evans could be heard describing it that they are just chilling. He carried the kittens as he messaged on his mobile phone. Evans stated that she and Eason remain to be in a relationship after him killing their pet goat. Eason rocked three days before that, displaying the goat's head in the garbage can and gloating about the meat's taste. In 2019, Jenelle Evans' husband David Eason shot her pet dog, causing Evans to momentarily lose custody of their three kids. According to Eason, it was an incident where his daughter's health and safety was in jeopardy and that the dog was aggressive. Related Article: Did Simon Cowell Return on 'America's Got Talent' Finale? @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Indian Army chief General MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla discussed important bilateral issues with Myanmars state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi on October 5 in NayPyiTaw. Shringla and General Naravane handed over 3000 vials of Remdesivir, an antiviral medication, to Suu Kyi as a part of Indias contribution to help Myanmar fight against COVID-19. India Myanmar Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane and @harshvshringla, Foreign Secretary along with @AmbSaurabhKumar called on State Counsellor H.E. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi @MyanmarSC at @MOFAMyanmar NayPyiTaw on October 5, 2020. They discussed important bilateral issues. pic.twitter.com/3xnUMFCVsZ India in Myanmar (@IndiainMyanmar) October 5, 2020 Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that India-Myanmar relations are historic, multifaceted and marked by mutual trust and respect. It stressed that India attaches high priority to its relationship with Myanmar in accordance with its Neighborhood First and Act East policies. There have been few direct exchanges between the two sides due to the pandemic situation. In the recent times, both sides have strengthened their cooperation in several areas, including connectivity and trade, development projects, energy, capacity building, defence and security and culture and people to people links, MEA said. The ministry further added that the visit will provide an opportunity to take stock of the existing bilateral ties and strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The two-day visit by Naravane and Shringla comes weeks before Myanmar elections, five years after the last general elections which was marred with allegations of voter fraud and misuse of social media platforms. Read: Army Chief Naravane And Foreign Secretary Shringla To Travel To Myanmar On Sunday Read: India, Myanmar Hold Foreign Office Consultations To Discuss Range Of Issues Elections and human rights abuse Facebook Inc has said that it is preparing for Myanmars 2020 election by improving its ability to remove hate speech and content that incites violence from its platform. Facebook announced that it is working to reduce the spread of harmful misinformation and removal of inauthentic networks in Myanmar that seek to manipulate public opinion. Suu Kyi has also been facing criticism over the handling of Rohingya crisis as serious human rights violations, acknowledged by a government-appointed panel, forced lakhs of Rohingya Muslims to take refuge in camps in Bangladesh. The Independent Commission of Enquiry (ICOE), in a 461-page final report, acknowledged that war crimes, serious human rights violations, and violations of domestic law took place during the security operations between August 25 - September 5, 2017. Read: Rohingya Crisis Created By Myanmar; Must Be Solved By Them: Bangladesh PM Seeks UN Focus Read: US Lawmakers Seek Transparent, Fair Election In Myanmar: Introduce Resolution (Image: Twitter / IndiainMyanmar) BOSTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Creatio (formerly bpm'online), a global software company that provides a leading low-code platform for process management and CRM, today announced that its CEO and Managing Partner, Katherine Kostereva, has been named the winner of a Gold Stevie Award in the Female Entrepreneur of the Year category in the 17th annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business. The Stevie Awards for Women in Business honor women executives, entrepreneurs, employees, and the companies they run worldwide. The Stevie Awards have been hailed as the world's premier business awards. More than 1,500 entries were submitted this year for consideration in more than 100 categories, including Executive of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Company of the Year, Startup of the Year, Women Helping Women, and Women Run Workplace of the Year. Kostereva won in the Female Entrepreneur of the Year category (Business Products 11 to 2,500 Employees). "We help our customers create low-code companies to transform faster and easier, and this year showed that our mission has become even more critical than ever. I believe this was recognized by the Stevie Award panel of judges, and I'm humbled and proud to be acknowledged alongside outstanding leaders that are driving businesses forward," said Katherine Kostereva, CEO and Managing Partner at Creatio. Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners were determined by the average scores of more than 180 business professionals around the world, working on seven juries. Maggie Gallagher, president of the Stevie Awards, said, "In a year like no other in our lifetimes, we've produced a cohort of amazing, Stevie-winning women, organizations, and achievements like no other. At all times our winners show themselves to be fearless and indomitable, but their leadership and example are especially valued this year. We congratulate all of our Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie winners. We look forward to celebrating them during our December 9 virtual ceremony, and to hearing from some of them during our Women|Future Conference on November 12-13." About Creatio Creatio (formerly bpm'online) is a global software company providing a leading low-code platform for process management and CRM. The company has been highly recognized as a market leader by key industry analysts. Its intelligent products accelerate sales, marketing, service and operations for mid-size and large enterprises. Together with hundreds of partners Creatio operates in 110 countries worldwide. For more information, please visit www.creatio.com About the Stevie Awards Stevie Awards are conferred in eight programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com. Media Contact: Vera Mayuk [email protected] 617-765-7997 SOURCE Creatio Related Links http://www.creatio.com The counselling process for B.A. LL.B (Hons.) will start from 7 October, while the counselling for LL.M students will begin from 9 October The results of All India Law Entrance Test 2020 have been declared by the National Law University (NLU) Delhi on its official website nludelhi.ac.in. The entrance examination for admission to B.A. LL.B (Hons.) and LL.M programmes were held in a computer-based mode on 26 September at various across the country. Along with the results, the University has also released overall merit list. According to a report by The Times of India, the counselling process for B.A. LL.B (Hons.) will start from 7 October, while the counselling for LL.M students will begin from 9 October. The NLU Delhi and the examination conduction body, National Testing Agency (NTA), will not be sending any separate communication to the qualified candidates about the counselling process. They have been advised to check the official website for updates related to AILET 2020. As per the official notification, the result is based on the merit of AILET 2020. Steps to check AILET 2020 results and merit list: Step 1: Log on to NLU, Delhi official website - nludelhi.ac.in. Step 2: Under the Announcement tab, click on the link that reads, "Announcement of AILET 2020 Result." Step 3: A PDF document will open where the links to check the result and merit list are mentioned. Step 4: Click on the link and enter log in credentials. Step 5: Your AILET 2020 scorecard will appear on the page. Save and take a printout of the result. Candidates who have qualified the entrance exam will be eligible for admission to B.A. LL.B (Hons.), LLM and PhD programmes offered by NLU Delhi. There are a total of 73 seats available of which 52 will be open for students from the general category, 11 seats for the Scheduled Castes category, five for Scheduled Tribes category, two for Persons with Disabilities and three for Kashmiri migrants. There are 10 additional seats for foreign nationals. For LLM programme, there are 20 seats available annually. MBABANE - Should abortion be legalised in the country? This is a question that begs for an answer after utterances made by Judge Qinisile Mabuza. Mabuza heard a case involving a 26-year-old woman, who was accused of causing the death of her four-year-old son, by drowning him in a river. It was reported that the childs father had denied paternity, leaving the woman to raise the child alone. This prompted the judge to question what provisions were available for women, who found themselves in similar situations. The Constitution of the country provides that abortion might be allowed on medical or therapeutic grounds, including where a doctor certifies that continued pregnancy will endanger the life or constitute a serious threat to the physical health of the woman. Abortion The supreme law of the land also allows abortion in situations where continued pregnancy will constitute a serious threat to the mental health of the woman; there is serious risk that the child will suffer from physical or mental defect of such a nature that the child will be irreparably seriously handicapped. When members of the public were engaged, most males were against abortion being legalised while females were for the idea. It should be noted that some of the reasons previously bought forth, by accused persons for committing illegal abortions or killing minors included that their fathers were either not supporting the children or they denied paternity of the child. Sinenkhosi Mathonsi said she was of the view that abortion needed to be legalised to eliminate, among other things, unwanted children. She quoted a recent incident of a woman, who allegedly killed her child after the father denied paternity. It would eliminate a lot of things, especially in an far as the development of the country is concerned, she said. Mathonsi said the money meant to pay for orphaned and vulnerable children (OVCs) among others, would be redirected to other important projects. Sizwe Thwala also supported the view that abortion should be legalised. He said he strongly believed the reason many elderly people were stuck with abandoned grandchildren was because the parents did not want the children, but had no choice since there were no provisions for voluntary abortion in the country. Not for release, publication or distribution in the USA, the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Australia or Member States of the European Economic Area ("EEA"). MEDIA RELEASE Kuros announces all agenda items were approved at its Extraordinary General Meeting today and launches a discounted rights offering expected to raise up to CHF 15.2 million of gross proceeds Schlieren (Zurich), Switzerland, October 5, 2020 - Kuros Biosciences (SIX: KURN) (the Company or Kuros) announces that it received approval at today's Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) for the proposed increase in the ordinary share capital of up to CHF 9.0 million through the issuance of up to an additional 9,000,000 registered shares with a nominal value of CHF 1.00 each. The EGM took place at the Company's headquarters in Schlieren. Due to restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the EGM was held without an audience and voting was exercised entirely through the independent proxy. 11,094,252 shares or 49.4% of the total of 22,469,946 shares, were represented. Based on the results, the Company's Board of Directors proposes that up to 8,426,229 new registered shares will be offered to existing shareholders of Kuros at an offer price of CHF 1.80 per share. The capital increase shall be implemented through a discounted rights offering, in which existing shareholders will receive 1 right to pre-emptively subscribe for new registered shares ("Rights") for each registered share they hold on October 7, 2020 (after market close). 8 Rights will entitle the holder of such Rights to subscribe for 3 newly registered shares subject to certain restrictions under applicable local laws. As from October 8, 2020, registered shares of Kuros will trade "ex Rights". The Rights will not be admitted to trading on SIX Swiss Exchange. The Rights are expected to be exercisable from October 8 until October 19, 2020 12:00 noon CEST. Shares for which Rights have not been validly exercised during this period may be sold in a subsequent offering to eligible investors. The listing and the first day of trading of the new registered shares on SIX Swiss Exchange and the delivery of the new registered shares against payment of the offer price, are expected to take place on October 23, 2020. The offering and listing prospectus in connection with the rights offering will be published tomorrow October 6, 2020. Kuros expects to raise a total amount of up to CHF 15.2 million of gross proceeds through the rights offering, which is in line with its announcement of an up to around CHF 15 million capital increase on September 11, 2020. The Company intends to use the net proceeds to accelerate the commercial roll-out of MagnetOs which, based on current performance, is expected to become cash flow positive by the end of 2022. The net proceeds shall also allow for advancing the clinical development of Fibrin-PTH, which targets a substantial clinical need in orthopedics and neurosurgery and represents a significant potential commercial opportunity. This includes completion of the STRUCTURE clinical Phase 2 study, with the first data expected to be available by early 2022, comparing Fibrin-PTH versus local autograft in spine fusion, as well as preparations for Phase 3 clinical development. Large existing shareholders as well as potential new investors have indicated their interest in participating in the equity financing. The final number of newly registered shares issued, and the gross proceeds raised via the capital increase will depend on, inter alia, the number of shares subscribed for by existing and new equity investors. If the gross proceeds of the Offering were significantly below CHF 15 million, the Company would have to delay the preparation of the Pivotal Phase 3 study for Fibrin-PTH (KUR-113) until the required funds are available. Octavian is acting as Placement Agent, Helvetische Bank is acting as Settlement Agent and Ondra LLP is acting as Financial Advisor to the Company. Expected timetable for the rights offering October 6, 2020: Publication of prospectus October 7, 2020: After close of trading on SIX Swiss Exchange: cut-off date for determination of existing shareholders for the entitlement of Rights October 8, 2020: Start of rights exercise period October 19, 2020: 12 noon CEST: End of rights exercise period After close of trading: Announcement of number of shares for which Rights have been exercised and number of shares offered in the share placement October 23, 2020: Listing and first trading day of offered shares Payment of offer price against delivery of offered shares For further information, please contact: Kuros Biosciences AG Media & Investors Michael Grau Mary-Ann Chang Chief Financial Officer LifeSci Advisors +41 44 733 47 47 +44 7483 284 853 michael.grau@kurosbio.com mchang@lifesciadvisors.com About Kuros Biosciences AG Kuros Biosciences is a leader in next generation synthetic bone graft technologies for targeted and controlled bone healing. Kuros's bone graft substitute, MagnetOs, is commercialized in the US and UK for use in posterolateral spinal fusions. Kuros's lead product in development, Fibrin PTH, a drug-biologic combination for spinal interbody fusion, is entering a phase 2 clinical trial in the U.S. Kuros is located in Schlieren (Zurich), Switzerland, Bilthoven, The Netherlands and Burlington (MA), U.S.A. The Company is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the symbol KURN. Visitwww.kurosbio.comfor additional information on Kuros, its people, science and product pipeline. About Fibrin-PTH (KUR-113) Fibrin-PTH (KUR-113) consists of a natural fibrin-based healing matrix with an immobilized targeted bone growth factor (truncated human parathyroid hormone (PTH) analog). Fibrin-PTH (KUR-113) is designed to be applied directly into and around an intervertebral body fusion device as a gel, where it polymerizes in situ. Fibrin-PTH (KUR-113) functions via the well-established mechanism of action of parathyroid hormone; has been demonstrated in animal models of spinal fusion to be comparable to rhBMP-2; and has been shown in preclinical studies to be easy to use and ideal for open or minimally invasive techniques. The safety & efficacy of Fibrin PTH (KUR-113) has not yet been evaluated for spinal fusion in humans. About MagnetOs US indications statement MagnetOs is an implant intended to fill bony voids or gaps of the skeletal system, i.e., posterolateral spine. MagnetOs must be used with autograft as a bone graft extender in the posterolateral spine. These osseous defects may be surgically created or the result of traumatic injury to the bone and are not intrinsic to the stability of the bony structure. EU indications statement MagnetOs is intended for use as bone void filler for voids and gaps that are not intrinsic to the stability of the bony structure. MagnetOs is indicated for use in the treatment of surgically created osseous defects or osseous defects resulting from traumatic injury to the bone. MagnetOs is intended to be packed into bony voids or gaps of the skeletal system (i.e. extremities, spine, cranial, mandible, maxilla and pelvis) and may be combined with autogenous bone. MagnetOs should not be used to treat large defects that in the surgeon's opinion would fail to heal spontaneously. In load bearing situations, MagnetOs is to be used in conjunction with internal or external fixation devices. The purpose of this publication is to inform shareholders of Kuros Biosciences AG and the public. This press release does neither constitute an offer to buy or to subscribe to rights or shares of Kuros Biosciences AG nor a prospectus within the meaning of the applicable Swiss law. Investors should make their decision to exercise rights or buy or to subscribe to new shares solely based on the offering and listing prospectus available free of charge at Kuros Biosciences AG, Wagistrasse 25, 8952 Schlieren. Investors are furthermore advised to consult their bank or financial adviser. This publication may contain specific forward-looking statements, e.g. statements including terms like "believe", assume", "expect", "forecast", "project", "may", "could", "might", "will" or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may result in a substantial divergence between the actual results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and those explicitly or implicitly presumed in these statements. Against the background of these uncertainties, readers should not rely on forward-looking statements. Kuros Biosciences AG assumes no responsibility to update forward-looking statements or to adapt them to future events or developments. The securities described herein are offered publicly without restrictions in Switzerland only. THIS PRESS RELEASE IS NOT BEING ISSUED IN THE USA, IN THE UNITED KINGDOM, IN AUSTRALIA, CANADA OR JAPAN AND SHOULD NOT BE DISTRIBUTED TO U.S. PERSONS OR PUBLICATIONS WITH A GENERAL CIRCULATION IN THE UNITED STATES, THE UNITED KINGDOM, AUSTRALIA, CANADA OR JAPAN AND MUST NOT BE DISTRIBUTED OR DISSEMINATED TO ONE OF THESE COUNTRIES BY PUBLICATIONS WITH A GENERAL CIRCULATION. THIS DOCUMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OR INVITATION TO SUBSCRIBE FOR OR PURCHASE ANY SECURITIES. THE SECURITIES OF KUROS BIOSCIENCES AG HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 AS AMENDED AND ARE NOT BEING OFFERED IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO U.S. PERSONS. In relation to the United Kingdom, the communication of this publication is not being made, and this publication has not been approved, by an authorized person for the purposes of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. Accordingly, this publication is not being distributed to, and must not be passed on to, the general public in the United Kingdom. Rather, the communication of this publication is being made to, and is directed only at persons outside the United Kingdom. This publication is only available to such persons and the transaction contemplated herein will be available only to, or engaged in only with persons outside the United Kingdom, and this publication must not be acted on or relied upon by any other person. This publication and the information contained herein does not constitute an "offer of securities to the public" within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, as amended (the "Prospectus Regulation") of the securities referred to herein in any member state of the European Economic Area (the "EEA") and the United Kingdom ("U.K."). Any offers of the securities referred to in this information to persons in the EEA or the U.K. will be made pursuant to an exemption under the Prospectus Regulation from the requirement to produce a prospectus for offers of the Securities. This information is only addressed to and is only directed at qualified investors in that Member State within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation and the U.K., i.e., only to investors who can receive the offer without an approved prospectus in such EEA Member State or the U.K. ("Qualified Investors"). The offer referred to in this press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, in any jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation would be unlawful prior to registration, exemption from registration or qualification under the securities laws of any jurisdiction. Residents shelter from continuing rocket attack in the basement bunker of damaged apartment blocks - JULIAN SIMMONDS Named in honour of those who helped Nagorno Karabakh win independence from Azerbaijan 30 years ago, Freedom Fighter Street no longer has homes fit for heroes. A plaza of Soviet-style housing in the breakaway republic's capital, Stepanakert, the street's crumbling flats have barely had a facelift since Communist times. Now, though, the four-storey blocs are in need of more than just a lick of paint after a missile crashed into them during a round of shelling on Friday night. The missile - one of scores that have hit Stepanakert since war resumed again with Azerbaijan a week ago - killed an elderly woman living on the third floor and wounded dozens more. Yet the casualty count would probably have been far higher had most of the residents not already been sheltering in the flats' basements, which double as makeshift bomb bunkers. David Sargissian, the mayor of Stepanakert, surveys the damage - JULIAN SIMMONDS The residents have had plenty of practice in emergency drills: although the conflict with Azerbaijan officially "froze" after a ceasefire in 1994, it has simmered ever since, leaving Stepanakert's 50,000 people in a state of constant readiness for war. Nearly every building with a cellar or basement doubles as a bomb shelter, and the city has a system of graded air raid warnings. A long unbroken siren means an enemy plane has crossed the border, which can then reach Stepanakert in just three minutes. An intermittent noise can refer to a drone, which flies more slowly. But no warning is available at all for the missiles that are now landing in the city, many of which have hit civilian areas. "The missile has half-destroyed this block," said Nelson Adamyan, 65, a retired electrician, as he showed The Telegraph round the wreckage of his bottom floor flat on Saturday morning. Nelson Adamyan, 74, a retired electrician, cleans up his apartment after a missile attack - JULIAN SIMMONDS "Why are they shelling civilian areas and killing old women? Real warriors fight against each other in the fields, not in villages full of civilians." As he spoke, two more loud explosions rang out, forcing him to sprint again for cover in the block's basement, which is equipped with mattresses, tables and a dining area. Story continues "We don't even know if this place is safe, it's just a basement rather than a proper bunker," said Tamara Hayrapetyan, 60. "But there would have been even more casualties if we hadnt been down here when the missile hit." The shelling became even heavier on Sunday, with missiles crashing into several downtown streets and sending up large plumes of smoke. Azerbaijan also claimed on Sunday that Armenian forces had fired rockets at its second city of Ganja, killing one civilian and wounding four. But while the war is showing every sign of escalating, older residents like Mrs Hayrapetyan take the bombardments in their stride. They endured far worse in the war for independence in the early 90s, when Nagorno Karabakh's Armenian Christians fought to secede from ethnically Turkic Azerbaijan. Back then, Azerbaijani forces in the nearby hilltop town of Shushi rained stockpiles of Soviet-era ordnance down onto Stepanakert, at one point firing 150 shells per day. As such, the residents of Freedom Fighter Street feel no great need right now to summon up much Blitz-style spirit. In the bunker at night, there is no Vera Lynn-style singing of patriotic songs, and no soothing the nerves with vodka, despite Mr Nelson having three different home-made strains in what is left of his kitchen. Firefighters extinguish fires around central Stepanakert - JULIAN SIMMONDS "We're fine, no need for songs, no need for vodka," he said. "That is why Nagorno Karabakh, with just 150,000 people, can survive against millions of Azerbaijanis and their Turkish allies." Down at another basement bunker near the town centre, where the Harutyunyan family and their neighbours were staying, a few more creature comforts were on offer. A makeshift mini-bar had been set up with Heineken, Martini and brandy, along with supplies of fresh walnuts, chewing gum and paracetamol. "We've been sleeping here every night for the last six days since the fighting started," said Hayk Harutyunyan, 18. "There's a dozen of us here in this one room, but we Armenians are very close as family so we get on well together." Hayk Hanityunyan, 18 holds his phone showing a photo he took of a missile attack in the city - JULIAN SIMMONDS The mood was again defiantly upbeat, although his neighbour Marine Manukyan , 57, wished for a time when sirens and bunkers were no longer part of normal life. She has already lost one son to illness five years ago, and has another now serving on the frontlines. "This is the third generation of our people who are seeing war," she said. "When you wake up at seven in the morning and hear explosions, at first you want to believe that it's our own forces just doing test firing. But then you realise that you're just lying to yourself, and that it's war once again." By Express News Service LUCKNOW: In an immediate impact of Hathras rape and murder case, a woman of Nepali origin, 22, managed to flee from the clutches of her boyfriend turned-tormentor in Lucknow and travelled to Nagpur in Maharashtra covering 900 km in a taxi and registered an FIR against him with the help of her friend settled there. As per the sources, having come to India to earn livelihood two years back, the woman came in contact with a software engineer Praveen Yadav through a common Nepali friend Sufi Vishwakarma early this year. Yadav, who was initially based in Dubai, came down to Lucknow just before the COVID-19 driven lockdown and then started a trail of sexual harassment and torture. He befriended with her while being in Dubai and lured her by promising her financial stability but on coming back to Lucknow, his reality came to the fore when he started exploiting her during the lockdown. He would even allegedly threaten her with dire consequences if she opened her mouth as he claimed to have a high connection in the police department. The sources claimed that Yadav used to rape and film the woman during the act and would post the videos on her social media account so that it reached her relatives in Kathmandu, Nepal, said the sources. In fact, the victim was brought to Lucknow by Vishwakarma who she had met in Surat. In Lucknow, the victim shared accommodation with Vishwakarma. After a few days, Vhsiwakarma started thrashing the woman and picking up fights. He had allegedly duped her of Rs 1.50 lakh. During this, the victim had been talking to Praveen Yadav, who arranged a hotel room for the victim asking her to shift there. After a couple of days, Yadav flew down to Lucknow from Dubai and met the victim at her hotel room. He started frequenting her and exploiting her initially in the hotel room and then at his friend's room. As Yadav used to film her and upload her pictures on her social media account, she decided to escape and contacted her Nepali friend who was settled in Nagpur along with her husband. As the victim narrated her tale of woes to a friend, she and her husband asked her to come to Nagpur. They even arranged a cab for her, said the sources. The victim allegedly left Lucknow by convincing Yadav that she was going to Ahmedabad to meet a friend. After filing an FIR against Yadav and a case of criminal breach of trust and robbery against Vishwakarma, the Nagapur police transferred the case to Chinhat police station in Lucknow, said the sources, adding that the woman was also being brought under police protection back to Lucknow. NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Fractal , (fractal.ai), a global leader in artificial intelligence and analytics, powering decisions in Fortune 500 companies, today announced that one of its subsidiaries, Theremin.ai, has raised funds from OLMO Capital. The funds will be used for building its algorithmic investment product and for expanding its talent. Founded in early 2019, Theremin.ai uses deep reinforcement learning to drive quantitative investment strategies for the Indian and Asian capital markets. Theremin's cutting-edge technology platform identifies unique alpha investment opportunities in financial markets incorporating both conventional and alternate data sources. "Theremin.ai's focus is to generate high-value alpha investment strategies and hence there is a need for large datasets, exhaustive research, and specialized talent. This round of financing will help us to continue investing in these areas," said Hemant Kothavade, Founder & CEO, Theremin.ai. "We set up Theremin.ai to test whether our algorithms could find signals in a nearly perfect capital markets context and we are encouraged by the results," said Srikanth Velamakanni, Co-founder, Group Chief Executive & Vice Chairman at Fractal. "We are excited about two of our AI product businesses (Qure.ai and Theremin.ai) raising external equity financing during this extraordinary year. It validates our approach of finding great entrepreneurs within and outside Fractal and building AI businesses with them while staying consistent with our mission of powering human decisions with AI." "We are very excited to partner with Theremin.ai, who are transforming the way investment decisions are being made today. We believe not much innovation has happened in this regard in the Indian and Asian capital markets, and there is a tremendous potential to use AI to make better informed and high-performance Investment strategies," said Gulu Mirchandani Chairman, OLMO Capital. "Theremin.ai has the right team and capabilities to capitalize on the situation, and we are glad to partner with them to help accelerate their work in this space," added Gulu Mirchandani. "Fractal's Ideas2Business initiative is focused on fostering cutting-edge ideas and innovation that help in creating new and market-ready AI-based digital products, platforms and solutions. Our spin-outs of Theremin.ai and Qure.ai are testaments to the success of this program," said Satish Raman, Chief Strategy Officer, Fractal. He added, "Cuddle.ai and Eugenie.ai are two other AI products that we believe will soon take the same route, even while we have many others in the early stages, which we will bring to the market." Fractal's Ideas2Business program currently includes over eight software solution platforms and four AI companies. The AI companies include 1) Qure.ai , which uses AI & deep learning techniques to provide an automated interpretation of radiology scans like X-rays, CTs, and MRI scans. Recently, Qure.ai received FDA approval for one of its products and raised $16 million from Sequoia Capital and Mass Mutual Ventures. 2) Theremin.ai which deploys deep reinforcement learning algorithms to identify unique alpha investment opportunities in financial markets. 3) Cuddle.ai , an AI-powered decision co-pilot that helps surface insights from data through nudges and predictive inputs, and helps business leaders make better and quicker decisions every day, and 4) Eugenie.ai , which has two products that enable businesses to spot, explore and exploit anomalies and patterns that have bottom-line impact. About Fractal Fractal is one of the most prominent players in the Artificial Intelligence space. Fractal's mission is to power every human decision in the enterprise and brings AI, engineering, and design to help the world's most admired Fortune 500 companies. Fractal's products include Qure.ai to assist radiologists in making better diagnostic decisions, Cuddle.ai to assists CEOs, and senior executives make better tactical and strategic decisions, Theremin.ai to improve investment decisions, and Eugenie.ai to find anomalies in high-velocity data. Fractal has more than 1,700 employees across 16 global locations, including the United States, UK, Ukraine, India, and Australia. Fractal has consistently been rated as India's best companies to work for, by The Great Place to Work Institute, featured as a leader in the Specialized Insights Service Providers Wave 2020, Customer Analytics Service Providers Wave 2019 by Forrester Research, and recognized as an "Honorable Vendor" in 2020 magic quadrant for data & analytics by Gartner. For more information visit fractal.ai SOURCE Fractal Analytics By Bahk Eun-ji Nurses are at greater risk of contracting coronavirus than doctors because they come into contact with patients more often, according to data submitted to Rep. Choi Youn-suk of the People's Party by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, Monday. Nurses in full protective suits line up to enter the treatment ward for novel coronavirus patients at Keimyung University Dongsan Hospital in Daegu, March 23. Yonhap (Natural News) Without question, retired Army Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, who served a truncated term as President Donald Trumps first national security adviser thanks to the treachery and, some say outright sedition, of the Obama-Biden administration, has become the most wrongly persecuted government official in the history of our republic. The family of Flynn is blasting the former leaders for their massive corruption after new revelations from an FBI insider linked to the Robert Mueller witch hunt of the former three-star general and head of the Defense Intelligence Agency. After U.S. District Judge Emmet Sullivan has, for months, repeatedly refused to dismiss the perjury case against Flynn as the Justice Department requested in the spring, a trove of once-classified documents has steadily been released by various government and congressional entities showing that at least one FBI agent on Muellers team believed the case was politically motivated and a dead end. Meanwhile, according to newly unearthed emails, others associated with the investigation purchased liability insurance because they were afraid of being financially exposed if their scheme to lie about Flynn and entrap President Trump were to ever get out as it has. Judge Sullivan and the DC Court of Appeals are turning out to be the unintentional heroes of the Flynn saga. In their unseemly quest to destroy Flynn, they refused to let DOJ drop case, and now were getting some of the most explosive documents about Special Counsel probe yet, The Federalists senior editor Mollie Hemingway wrote Sept. 25 on Twitter. Judge Sullivan and the DC Court of Appeals are turning out to be the unintentional heroes of the Flynn saga. In their unseemly quest to destroy Flynn, they refused to let DOJ drop case, and now we're getting some of the most explosive documents about Special Counsel probe yet. Mollie (@MZHemingway) September 25, 2020 FBI agent William J. Barnett said during a Sept. 17 interview he believed that Muellers team had a get Trump attitude and that he personally did not want to pursue the alleged Trump-Russia collusion probe because it was not there and nothing but a dead end. Fox News reported: FBI agent William J. Barnett made the comments during an interview on Sept. 17 at the Justice Department, before Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri Jeffrey Jensen, who was tapped by Attorney General Bill Barr to review the case against Flynn. Jensen has joined U.S. Attorney John Durhams team in his review of the origins of the Trump-Russia probe. Those comments have surfaced in new government documents. Barnett told investigators that he thought the FBIs Trump-Russia probe was opaque and with little detail concerning specific evidence of criminal events. Barnett thought the case theory was supposition on supposition, according to Barnetts FBI 302, which was filed in Sullivans court last week by the government. It added that the predication of the Flynn probe was not great, and that it was not clear what the persons opening the case wanted to look for or at. (Related: VP Biden helped son Hunter become fabulously wealthy by shaking down international governments and corporations.) In other words, as Trump has said all along, Muellers BS probe was a complete witch hunt; he was essentially given a mandate to go out and find a crime something, anything the president or his people did wrong. The Flynn family is livid over what the government he served for more than three decades put him through. Abusive, intentional lawless actions committed against the Republic, the President of the United States Donald J. Trump and his NSA Director and our brother, General Mike Flynn, by a vile cabal of thugs in the FBI, DOJ and Special Counsels office threatened the national security of our country and all Americans, the family statement notes. Evidence of massive corruption by the Obama-Biden administration pour from the pages of documents just released, it continued. The criminal conduct and malfeasance of those entrusted with the power to enforce our laws trampled the rights and lives of Gen. Flynn, our entire family, and all Americans who cherish our Constitution. And just think: If Obama/Biden/Comey, et. al., can get away with doing something like this to a retired three-star general and former DIA director, just how much difficulty would there be in destroying the life of an ordinary citizen who lacks the resources to mount a reasonable defense? This is sedition at its core, and it must be treated (and punished) as such. Sources include: FoxNews.com ZeroHedge.com NewsTarget.com In an essay Goshorn wrote in 2018, she stated: My intention is to present historical and contemporary issues that continue to be relevant to Indian people today to a world that still relies on Hollywood as a reliable informant about Indian life. Goshorn created her first basket in 2008. Her second basket, titled Sealed Fate, took her more than a year to work out, as it was created using a double-weave technique, a method so difficult that only a handful of Cherokee artists can do it. Goshorn wove the basket from strips on archival watercolor paper on which had been printed the text of the Treaty of New Echota, which led to the forcible removal of the Cherokee people from their southeastern homelands to what is now Oklahoma. The interior of the basket uses papers printed with the signatures of Cherokee who protested the legality of the treaty. This basket is part of Gilcrease Museums permanent collection and is one of the first objects encountered in the Weaving History into Art exhibit. We begin with one of the first baskets Shan did, and the exhibit concludes with the last basket she made just before her death, Dolph said. A former major league pitcher was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after he was identified by the authorities as a suspect in the killing of his former girlfriend in Arizona, the authorities said. The police found the body of the retired pitcher, Charles Haeger, about 4 p.m. local time on Saturday along a trail at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in Northern Arizona, Sgt. Ben Hoster of the Scottsdale Police Department said in a statement. Mr. Haegers unoccupied minivan had been found that morning near Flagstaff, Sergeant Hoster said. The police had been looking for Mr. Haeger, 37, since Friday in connection with the fatal shooting of his former girlfriend, whom the authorities identified as Danielle Breed, 34. On Friday afternoon, Ms. Breeds roommate had returned to their residence in Scottsdale, just east of Phoenix, when he heard multiple gunshots coming from her room, Sergeant Hoster said. Security checkpoints and customs bases in Northern Ireland after Brexit will become targets and a 'recruiting badge' for dissident republican groups, MPs have warned. It came after MI5 carried out an investigation into the terrorism threat linked to 'installations or infrastructure at the border' with the Irish Republic. The intelligence agency said it feared the New IRA could become a more dangerous threat in the future. Security checkpoints and customs bases in Northern Ireland after Brexit will become targets and a 'recruiting badge' for dissident republican groups, MPs have warned MI5 carried out an investigation into the terrorism threat linked to 'installations or infrastructure at the border' with the Irish Republic MPs on the Commons intelligence and security committee released a report into Northern Ireland terrorism concluding that security and customs bases would 'increase the risk of political violence in border areas'. They also warned that dissident republican groups, including the New IRA, were recruiting 'significant numbers of young people'. The report stated: 'Any infrastructure erected at the Irish border to handle customs or security checks would immediately become a target for DR [dissident republican] attacks.' It said infrastructure 'will be both a target and a recruiting badge for dissident republican groups'. It also warned the changes may 'reignite the threat from loyalist groups that have previously held a ceasefire'. The intelligence agency said it feared the New IRA could become a more dangerous threat in the future Germany: We MUST avoid No Deal Allowing Brexit trade talks to break down without a deal would be 'totally irresponsible', Germany warned last night. In comments that will pile pressure on Brussels to soften its hardline stance, German foreign minister Heiko Maas said both the EU and the UK should do everything possible to avoid the disruption of No Deal. Speaking after a meeting in Berlin between German chancellor Angela Merkel and the EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, Mr Maas said the pandemic had 'made an agreement even more urgent' for both sides. He added: 'With today's health and economic challenges, people on both sides of the Channel have enough to shoulder, so it would be totally irresponsible to burden them in this position with additional problems through a No Deal.' Mrs Merkel recently said she remained 'optimistic' about the prospects for a deal and insisted the EU would approach the final weeks of negotiations in 'a constructive mood'. Last night, cautious hopes were raised in Whitehall that Germany, which currently holds the EU presidency, might finally be gearing up to push for a deal. Ministers hope Mrs Merkel will lean on French president Emmanuel Macron to give ground over fishing, which threatens to scupper the talks. Advertisement The report pointed to a study in February last year that warned that a return to violence in Northern Ireland would be 'inevitable' if there was a hard border. The study also said marginalised nationalist youths would be susceptible to 'being groomed into violent activity by dissident republicans'. Labour's Kevan Jones and the SNP's Stewart Hosie, who sit on the committee, said in a joint statement: 'Dissident republican groups appear to be continuing to recruit new members including significant numbers of young people. 'Unless wider issues are addressed, dissident republican groups will continue to offer an appealing 'brand' for new generations and the threat will remain.' The report said the number of attacks last year demonstrated that the main dissident republican groups were 'resilient and retain both the intent and capability to cause serious damage'. It referred to evidence from MI5, which warned MPs: 'It is at the forefront of our minds that the New IRA could become a still more dangerous threat'. MPs also said the New IRA which was responsible for shooting journalist Lyra McKee dead during riots in Londonderry last year is the most widespread of the four main dissident republican groups. But there were signs of closer co-operation between the groups than before. MPs said that while there was an initial public backlash against the New IRA in the aftermath of the murder of Miss McKee, MI5 warned that the group had 'rallied almost immediately'. There were three other attacks by DR groups last year, including a car bomb detonated outside a courthouse in Londonderry. A postal bomb was sent to Heathrow Airport and police were called to a hoax device where a hidden bomb exploded in County Fermanagh. No one was injured in the attacks. MPs insisted that taking terrorists off the streets through criminal prosecutions must be a priority for MI5. 'When you sow a small plant, then you keep watch on it so that wild cattle should not eat that sapling.' IMAGE: A protest in New Delhi after the Hathras victim's death. Photograph: Adnan Abidi/Reuters Over the past few days, the Hathras horror where a Dalit girl was brutalised leading to her death has evoked nationwide outrage and anger. Yet, amidst all the outpouring of shock and grief, in a bizarre statement, a Bharatiya Janata Party MLA from Uttar Pradesh on Saturday said that incidents like the alleged gangrape and murder of the young Dalit woman in Hathras can be stopped 'if parents inculcated good values in their daughters'. Emphasising on instilling values in women, the BJP MLA from Ballia, Surendra Singh, said neither governance nor use of weapons can prevent such crimes. 'Incidents like these can be stopped with the help of good values, na shashan se, na talwar se. All parents should teach their daughters good values. It's only the combination of government and good values that can make country beautiful,' he was quoted as saying (see video here). Syed Firdaus Ashraf/Rediff.com speaks to Surendra Singh and decodes his thinking on rapes and the society we live in. Your statement on family values has created a political storm amid the Hathras rape case outrage. I said a very simple fact, that only the Constitution or law and order cannot stop crimes. Family has to be involved in stopping crimes, and then the government can come in too. If these two institutions don't come together, then crimes are not going to stop. Governments may come and go and so will chief ministers and prime ministers, but to stop such crimes, these two institutions have to come together to make a better society. You keep your jewellery worth Rs 10,000 in a locker, but your own daughter, who is a jewel of your family, or be it your son, who is the pride of your family, if they roam half-naked on the streets, then no society or no country is going to benefit from that. And how does one bring these values you espouse? Our ancestors have said that till your child attains the age of 5 love him as much as you can. And between 5 and 15 years you give him/her our culture which will be with him/her for life. We need to track our children in that age -- where they are going? Who they are meeting? What they are seeing on the mobile? And this applies to both -- boys and girls. If we keep monitoring them at this age, then we can bring our society in order. And do you think we lack this in our society and therefore crimes take place? Yes, this lacks in our society. I am just suggesting that till the age of 15, no boy or girl should get a mobile phone. And before marriage, boys and girls must be dressed properly. After marriage they can do what they want. At a student's age they have to have civil (decent) dress code. How will such a dress code help? Desire comes from two things. Food and clothes. You will experience this in life. Come to Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh schools and you will understand what I mean by dress code. Don't you think you are taking away people's freedom to choose what to wear, eat etc? When you sow a small plant, then you keep watch on it so that wild cattle should not eat that sapling. You keep watch till the time it has grown into a huge tree. And once it is a huge tree you don't need to protect it. The same way a child has to be kept under watch till the age of 15 so that they get a better future. Whether this will happen or not, I don't know at this moment but this is what I believe is my dharma to tell people. Do you feel if mobile phones are not given to children below 15 years old, then rapes will stop? Yes, it will come in control and I firmly believe this. But your statement sounds as though you are telling girls what to do and not boys. I made my statement to both girls and boys. I am saying about girls more because naari (women), right from society to family, lives in maryaada (limits). On the other hand, man has been gifted more from nature. Gifted? As, you mean added advantage? Yes, there is no doubt about it. This has been given by nature to men. We make our daughters like rani not naukrani (servants). She can live like a doctor or professor, but till the time she achieves that she must live within maryaada (in limits). But when it is the man who is the aggressor, why are you blaming women? Let me place a counter-question. Why do you think Muslim women are raped less compared to Hindu women? You tell me the answer. I don't have these numbers, so how can I give you an answer? You find out the answer. This happens because Muslim women live within their boundaries. And therefore, rapes occur less in their society across the country because they live in their boundary limit. Is there something wrong with Uttar Pradesh politicians? During the Nirbhaya case, Mulayam Singh Yadav defended boys by stating, 'ladke hain galti ho jaati hai'. Why do you defend men and want society to forgive them for rapes? No, it is not like that. There is the Constitution of India which has provisions to punish them. In Uttar Pradesh, there is politics in everything. Be it culture or family life. Tomorrow if you tell me that you want to eat your lunch while you are jogging, is that the right way of eating? No. Food has to be eaten when you are seated comfortably. But what about the Hathras rape case? There was no rape in Hathras. The family is saying there is no rape and doctors are saying no rape. It is only because of vote bank politics the Congress party is saying there has been rape. The girl, before dying, had stated on video that she was raped and also named the accused. I believe the doctor's report. These media people... Bollywood drug addicts were being supported by the media and they hoodwinked the entire nation. A new campaign wants 350 million to be allocated to these counties from the 1.2 billion pot of European Cohesion Funds. The move has been backed by Chambers of commerce, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and regional leaders, with the money due to come on stream from 2021 to 2027. Northern and Western Regional Assembly chief executive, David Minton says it would help boost struggling local economies. "The region has been reclassified by the European Commission from a developed category to a region in transition. The reason behind that is because there has been poor economy performance over the last 15 years. "The campaign is requesting a sustained focus on the western part of Ireland and the border region, focusing in on our key urban areas, like Galway, Letterkenny, Sligo and Athlone, and our key towns and villages across the region." By Stephanie Keith and Andrew Hay CEDAR RIDGE, Ariz. (Reuters) - Two decades into a severe drought on the Navajo reservation, the open range around Maybelle Sloans sheep farm stretches out in a brown expanse of earth and sagebrush. A dry wind blows dust across the high-desert plateau, smoke from wildfires in Arizona and California shrouding the nearby rim of the Grand Canyon. The summer monsoon rains have failed again, and stock ponds meant to collect rainwater for the hot summer months are dry. With no ground water for her animals, Sloan, 59, fills an animal trough with water from a 1,200-gallon white plastic tank. She and her husband, Leonard, have to pay up to $300 to have the tank filled as her pickup truck has broken down. When it's working, she hauls water herself every two days, spending $80 a week on fuel. The cost of hauling water has made their ranch unprofitable. The Navajo Nation covering a 27,000 square mile area straddling the U.S. states of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah -- competes with growing cities including Phoenix and Los Angeles for its water supply. And as climate change dries out the U.S. West, that supply is becoming increasingly precarious. In decades past, we got rain every year around June, July, August, said Leonard Sloan. The 64-year-old rancher pointed toward the dry ponds in the ground near a local butte named Missing Tooth Rock. When we had that storm, there would be water and they would be full. And now due to global warming, we dont get no rain, just a little." To keep their ranch alive the Sloans have to get water, which is free, from the sole livestock well in the area some 15 miles to the east. They spend between $3,000 and $4,000 a year on hay to supplement their animals feed as the open range no longer produces enough grass to sustain them. Maybelle has cut her sheep herd down to 24 head, and Leonard tells her to get rid of them and her 18 goats to focus on their 42 cattle, which bring more money at market. Story continues But Maybelle bristles at the thought of giving up sheep herding learned from her mother, and grandmother before her. Maybelles mother, father and sister all died in April from coronavirus. "Im doing it for my parents," Maybelle said, wiping tears away as she sat on the metal railing of a corral while her cattle licked salt blocks and drank water. GRADUAL DISASTER The Sloans remember grass growing as high as the belly of a horse as recently as the 1980s. But drought conditions on the reservation have become largely relentless since the mid-1990s. Annual average temperatures rose by 1.4 degrees Fahrenheit in the reservation's Navajo County area over the 100 years to 2019, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration data. The months of June to August this year were the driest on record in the area for the three-month period, according to drought monitoring data studied by climate scientist David Simeral of the Desert Research Institute in Nevada. Three of the five driest July-August rainy seasons in the area have occurred since the late 1990s. The warming trend has prompted desertification, with sand dunes now covering about a third of the reservation, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). All but one of the reservations rivers have stopped running year-round, said Margaret Redsteer, a scientist at the University of Washington in Bothell. Thats the really tricky thing about droughts, and climate change is like that too, Redsteer said. Its a gradual disaster. DETERMINED PEOPLE On paper, the Navajo Nation has extensive water rights based on the federal reserved rights doctrine which holds that Native American nations have rights to land and resources in treaties they signed with the United States. In practice, the Navajos and other tribes were left out of many 20th century negotiations divvying up the Wests water. There are signs some of the next generation are keeping up ranching traditions. Some youths simply help their grandparents haul water each day from the sole well for livestock in the Bodaway-Gap area. Still others, including Maybelles children, send money from their work off the reservation to help fund their families ranches. Us Indians, we dont give up really easy, Maybelle said. Were really determined people. (Reporting by Stephanie Keith and Andrew Hay; Editing by Lisa Shumaker) Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 15:12:57|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close HANGZHOU, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- As the 16th China International Cartoon and Animation Festival (CICAF) concluded in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province, on Sunday, the six-day event had attracted 10.86 million visitors online and offline. The major cartoon and animation event, originally planned to be held from April 30 to May 5, was postponed due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic. With one main venue and 11 sub-venues, the CICAF saw 45 activities ranging from exhibitions, forums, trade talks to competitions. A total of 739,200 people took part in on-site activities, and 10.12 million people registered for the event's online interaction. Despite the impact of the novel coronavirus, 5,886 industry insiders and 2,680 Chinese and foreign enterprises and institutions from 65 countries and regions joined in the event. During the festival, a total of 1,543 letters of intent for cooperation were reached through online and offline means, and more than 100 new global animation films appeared. Contractual investment signed during the festival exceeded 250 million yuan (about 36.8 million U.S. dollars). A total of 31 animation works were shortlisted for the "Golden Monkey Award" competition during the festival, which is known as the highest honor in the Chinese animation industry. Enditem Baldwinsville, NY - The Baldwinsville school board is refusing to discuss the unusual announcement that the districts superintendent is looking for a job just days after the board approved a three-year contract extension and a salary boost. Superintendent Matthew J. McDonald also has refused to discuss or answer questions about his decision to seek a new job days after signing the contract extension. McDonald got a $15,860 pay raise under the new contract. His salary rose from $175,500 in the last contract to $191,360, a 9 percent increase, according to the district and the contract extension. The extension also gave McDonald a retroactive pay increase for the year ending June 30, 2020, raising his salary to $185,606. His salary originally was $175,500 for the year ending June 30, 2020, district officials said. Here are some of the questions Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard asked the board: The announcement that a super is looking for work after getting a three-year extension is highly unusual. Why did the board make the announcement he is looking for work? When you extended his contract for three years on Sept 21, did you know at that time he was looking for a new job? If you knew, why did you vote to extend his contract? How did you find out he was looking for a new job? When did you find out he was looking for work? Is the extension part of any agreement with McDonald that he must leave his job as superintendent? Have you negotiated a severance agreement with McDonald? Baldwinsville Board of Education President Christina Pavetto Bond would not answer or discuss any of the questions. In an email she said: Our Board takes the duty to our Baldwinsville community very seriously and we are trying to discharge that duty to the very best of our ability by communicating what we can. However, we are unable to discuss the details regarding the employment of any individual employee of the district. On Sept 29, the board and McDonald announced on the districts web site that the superintendent is exploring other career opportunities. The announcement said there was no definite timeline. The board met in executive session the night before the announcement. On Sept. 21, the school board unanimously voted to extend McDonalds contract with the district for three years. His contract now runs through June 30, 2023. Nicole M. Donvosky, an Ohio lawyer who represents school districts and specializes in contract negotiations, grievances, arbitrations, evaluation, nonrenewal and termination, said getting a contract extension followed by such a rapid job search announcement isnt typical. "That sequence isnt normal,'' she said. Making a public announcement that a superintendent is looking for a new job is a bit unusual, she said. Generally a superintendent wont announce he or she is looking for other work unless others might know about it, she said. At that point, a decision might be made to tell the community, she said. The contract extension says the contract can be terminated by agreement of the board and superintendent, or by the superintendent providing 90 days notice. Hes required to help with the process of choosing a successor, if asked to do so, under the contract. The board has scheduled an executive session at 5 p.m. today to discuss the the employment of a particular person and the appointment of a particular corporation. Asked if the meeting is related to the announcement that the superintendent is looking for work, the board president said in an email: I cannot discuss the particulars of Executive Session topics, however I can tell you the subject of our 5 pm Executive Session is not the announcement we made to the school community last week," she wrote. Following the executive session, there is a regular board meeting at 7 p.m. today to be live-streamed on the district website. The district said anyone who wants to speak is asked to email jdebarbieri@bville.org by 6:30 pm. today. Elizabeth Doran covers education, suburban government and development, breaking news and more. Got a tip, comment or story idea? Contact her anytime at 315-470-3012 or email edoran@syracuse.com New Delhi/Naypyitaw, Oct 5 : Indian Army chief General M.M. Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla on Monday finalised India's coastal shipping agreement with Myanmar in a meeting with its State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. It will further strengthen security ties between the two countries amid the Chinese aggression. India and China continue to remain locked in a military face-off along the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh. On Monday, the Indian embassy in Myanmar said that Naravane and the Foreign Secretary along with Ambassador Saurabh Kumar called on the State Counsellor at Naypyitaw to discuss important bilateral issues. Sources said the meeting ahead of the Myanmar general elections, was to finalise the coastal shipping agreement for the launch of the Kaladan multi-modal project and discuss measures to strengthen security ties against China-backed insurgent groups. Myanmar will go to polls on November 8. The coastal shipping agreement will allow Indian ships to reach Mizoram via Sittwe Port on the Bay of Bengal and through the Kaladan river multi-modal link. The project, envisioned by the Vajpayee government, had been pending for the past 20 years, sources said. The two sides, sources said, also discussed security related issues and initiatives to block the India-Myanmar border to China-backed Indian insurgents and drug traffickers in Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh. The Paresh Baruah headed ULFA is based in Yunnan province of China. Sources said the top officials also discussed the return and rehabilitation of the Rohingyas refugees in Bangladesh and Myanmar. As part of India's contribution to help a friendly neighbour, Myanmar's fight against Covid-19, Shringla and Naravane handed over 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to Aung San Suu Kyi, Ambassador Saurabh Kumar's office in Naypyitaw said. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text With its top party leaders Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav facing murder charges, the RJD on Monday accused Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi of engaging in a criminal conspiracy against Tejashwi Yadav. Rashtriya Janata Dal's Rajya Sabha member Manoj Jha cited a phone number which was allegedly used to demand money from aspiring party candidates for allotment of ticket in the coming Assembly elections but was not registered with anyone as per the state-run telecom company. "The phone number 0612-2217222 belongs to Patna circle of BSNL, and was used by unknown persons for random calls to aspiring candidates of the RJD. Interestingly, when you call back on it, the name of Tejashwi Yadav emerge on Truecaller," he told media persons here. Jha said that this phone number was registered in the name of former Chief Minister Rabri Devi but it was disconnected on November 21, 2016. After this, it was allotted to the Forest Department office in Patna, but they also gave it up on March 18, 2019 and as per enquiries with BSNL, it has not been registered with anyone since then. "On September 19, a missed call from this number went to a RJD aspirant in Sitamarhi. Since, Tejashwi Yadav's name emerged on Truecaller, when he called back on that number, he was instructed to come to Patna with Rs 25 lakh via Lalganj town to get ticket. Another candidate of Muzaffarpur was also approached in a similar fashion. I have a long list of calls which were made from it to demand money from candidates," he said, waving a bunch of documents. "If that phone number is not registered with any person, then who is misusing it in the name of Tejashwi Yadav? I firmly believes that a conspiracy of such magnitude cannot be possible without the connivance of the ruling party. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi and their close ministers are involved in a conspiracy against Tejashwi Yadav to win this election," he added. Jha also hit out at BSNL for allowing this conspiracy to take place, saying that it has put a question mark on reputation of the institution. Noting Tejashwi Yadav has raised questions on unemployment, migrant labour, flood situation, law and order, crime against women and the '10 lakh jobs' promise, he alleged that the ruling party leaders have no answer to those points. "Hence, CM Nitish Kumar, Sushil Kumar Modi and other leaders of NDA are taken the politics of Bihar to such a low standard. They are using the conspiracy method to win this election," Jha said, demanding a fair investigation into the matter. Taking a dig at the Bihar Police, he said that its former DGP "used the government post to build his own political career". "It is enough to understand how Bihar Police is working under Nitish Kumar," he said. "Does the ruling party have any answer on whether the decisions taken by ex-DGP Gupteshwar Pandey during his tenure were fair?" he asked. Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav are embroiled in controversy after RJD's Dalit leader Shakti Malik was murdered by three unidentified men in the state's Purnea district on Sunday. Malik's wife has alleged that Tejashwi Yadav demanded Rs 50 lakh for ticket, and when her husband was unable to give money, Tejashwi abused him. She also levelled murder charges on him and Tej Pratap Yadav. By PTI MUMBAI: With the AIIMS' report ruling out murder in actor Sushant Singh Rajputs death, the Shiv Sena on Monday said politicians and news channels which "defamed" Mumbai Police in connection with the case should apologise to Maharashtra. In an editorial of its mouthpiece Saamana, the Shiv Sena said truth finally prevailed in the actor's death case, and alleged that it was a conspiracy to malign Maharashtras image using the episode. It also said the Maharashtra government should file a defamation case against those who were part of the conspiracy. The medical board of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) last week ruled out murder in Rajput's death, and termed it "a case of hanging and death by suicide". Referring to it, the Sena publication said, "Are the blind devotees going to reject the report of AIIMS in connection with Sushants death? It has been 110 days since Sushants unfortunate death." "The politicians and news channels which bark like dogs, who defamed the Mumbai Police and questioned its probe, must apologise to Maharashtra now," the editorial said. Without naming anyone or any party, it said those who remained tight-lipped in connection with the alleged gang-rape incident in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras should not test the manliness of Maharashtra. The Mumbai Police observed ethics and maintained secrecy during its probe to see one is not defamed after Rajput's death, but the CBI dug out the actors drugs episode within 24 hours of its investigation, it said. It also accused Nitish Kumar and other Bihar politicians of raising the issue since they allegedly lacked campaign issues for the upcoming Assembly polls there. Those who had pitched for probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into Rajput's death case have not questioned the central agency what it has been doing over the past 40 to 50 days, the Marathi publication said. It also asked where the actress who made capital out of Rajputs death and likened Mumbai to Pakistan is hiding now -- an apparent reference to film star Kangana Ranaut. "The actress did not shed two tears even using glycerine after a young woman was allegedly raped and killed in Hathras and her body was cremated in the dead of the night by police there," the editorial said. COVID was the best event that could have happened for Biden. He could coop himself up in his basement for days without a peep. When he got his script completed by his staff, he would read from a teleprompter. For months, he was missing in action. Now, one month before the election, he finally comes out of hiding and all he can talk about is COVID and Trumps supposed shortcomings. He is not telling us about open borders, socialized health care, tax increase, his shady connections with China and Russia, etc. Trump has gotten more done in four years than any other president. If Trump got COVID, it was because he was working for you and me. Thai restaurant Farmhouse Kitchen has found a new home in Menlo Park. On Wednesday, chef-owner Kasem Pop Saengsawang and co-owner Ling Chatterjee launched their soft opening, where they have begun to offer indoor and patio dining in addition to takeout and delivery. An imaginative interior has been set up inside the space at 1165 Merrill St. where golden chandeliers hang over a long dining table and colorful flowers adorn the walls. ALSO: We shadowed a restaurant server for a full shift. This is their new normal. Regulars of the Oakland and San Francisco locations know that the attention to detail inside the restaurant transfers over to the food itself. The Menlo Park location will have a similar menu to the Oakland and S.F. locations; you can find its vibrant blue rice served with the popular Hat Yai fried chicken. The Farmhouse Kitchen in Menlo Park will be the fifth restaurant for Saengsawang and Chatterjee. They also have a location in Portland and a Farmhouse Kitchen Express in San Leandro. According to Palo Alto Online, owner Saengsawang plans to be present at the Menlo Park location after recently moving to the area. ALSO: After selling $6 sandwiches for 21 years, this Lower Haight deli needs help The opening also comes about a week after San Mateo County moved into Tier 2 of Californias four-tired color system. Indoor dining has been reintroduced to the county after banning it earlier this summer. Restaurants can now accommodate diners indoors at 25% capacity. Farmhouse Kitchen will be open Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for lunch. Dinner service begins Monday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Weekend hours are Saturday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 16:00:18|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close SEOUL, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Two more U.S. soldiers and one of their family members in South Korea have tested positive for COVID-19 amid the lingering worry about the virus spread here, the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) said Monday. The USFK said in a statement that the three USFK affiliated individuals were confirmed to be infected with the coronavirus pandemic after arriving in South Korea between Sept. 27 and 29. Of them, the two service members arrived at Osan Air Base on U.S. government-chartered flights from the United States on Sept. 27 and 29. The Osan Air Base is located in Pyeongtaek, 70 km south of Seoul. The other individual, a dependent of a U.S. army service member, arrived at Incheon International Airport, west of Seoul, on a commercial flight from the United States on Sept. 29. The confirmed patients have been transferred to designated isolation facilities at Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek and at Kunsan Air Base in North Jeolla province. The total number of infections among the USFK-affiliated personnel has risen to 201, according to the Yonhap news agency. Worries remained here over the virus spread. In the latest tally, South Korea reported 73 more confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, raising its total number of infections to 24,164. "Despite the recent confirmed cases, USFK remains at a high level of readiness with less than 1 percent of its active-duty service members currently confirmed positive with COVID-19," the USFK said. Enditem Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 20:20:55|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close by Bosun Awoniyi LAGOS, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Nigeria will overhaul its crime-fighting machinery and cut misconduct in law enforcement by some police units, Police Inspector General Mohammed Adamu has said a statement. The police chief has banned personnel of special squads, including the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (FSARS), the Special Tactical Squad (STS), Intelligence Response Team (IRT), and other tactical squads, from routine patrols across the country. In a statement issued on Sunday, Adamu said the affected squads, with no charge of routine patrols, will also not be allowed for other conventional low-risk duties, such as stop-and-search, checkpoints, mounting of roadblocks and traffic checks. According to the statement, the banning "came against the backdrop of findings by the leadership of the Force that a few personnel of the tactical squads" hide under mufti to "perpetrate all forms of illegality." Recent months have seen a series of reports on police misconduct like torture, ill-treatment and extrajudicial execution, which caused outrage among the public. In late July, the Nigerian police said a statement it had arrested three police officers and one alleged civilian accomplice for the "dehumanizing treatment" and harassment of a woman in the southwest city of Ibadan. According to local media on Monday, a young man was allegedly shot by men suspected to members of the FSARS in front of a hotel in the southern state of Delta. A video of the incident going viral on social media shows the young man, held by a sympathizer, appeared unconscious with blood dripping from the sides of his head. A woman was seen lying on the floor close to a shattered windscreen of a silver saloon car, while youths were seen chasing the police vehicle and a white SUV, allegedly being driven by one of the officers. The incidents have triggered widespread condemnation, including that from Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. According to local daily, The Nation, on Monday, Osinbajo told reporters that he backs the decision of Adamu to ban routine patrol by the FSARS and other tactical squads. Osinbajo said he is concerned and angry that young men and women are in some cases maimed or killed by members of the police. He said "a few bad eggs" in the police are causing the problems, urging the police to stick to their mandates. According to the latest police statement, members of the special squads are to concentrate on and respond only to cases of armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes when the need arises. Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege also expressed dismay over the alleged atrocious activities of the police in Delta. He expressed concern over alleged cases of extrajudicial killings and harassment of defenseless citizens by a few police personnel, including the alleged shooting of a man by FSARS operatives in his constituency in Ughelli for refusing to allow the operatives to search his phone. Omo-Agege urged comprehensive reforms and overhaul of security units in the country, fishing out the culprits for prosecution to serve as a deterrent to others. Enditem Atlanta, Oct 5 : Actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd, who had featured in many films by director Spike Lee, died of gunshot wounds here this weekend. He was 70. Byrd died on Saturday "from multiple gunshot wounds to the back", a spokesperson for the Atlanta Police Department said in a statement to eonline.com. Officers responded to a "person injured call" around 1.45 am on Saturday and, upon arrival, the authorities said they found "a male lying unresponsive at the location". Byrd's death is currently under investigation, the police said. Spike Lee took to Instagram to pay tribute to the late actor, who appeared in his projects such as "Chi-Raq", "Clockers", "Red Hook Summer" and "He Got Game". "I'm So Sad To Announce The Tragic Murder Of Our Beloved Brother Thomas Jefferson Byrd Last Night In Atlanta, Georgia," Lee wrote on Instagram. The director noted the films he worked with the late actor on, and concluded by saying: "May We All Wish Condolences And Blessings To His Family. Rest In Peace Brother Byrd." Actress Viola Davis also expressed her grief and said: "Oh no!!! 2020! Whaaattt!!! Loved working with you Byrd. What a fine actor you were. So sorry your life ended this way. Praying for your family. So very sorry." Turkish drilling vessel Yavuz sets sail in Izmit Bay, on its way to the Mediterranean Sea, off the port of Dilovasi, Turkey, on June 20, 2019. (Sezer/Reuters) EU Welcomes Turkish Ships Return to Port From Near Cyprus ISTANBULA Turkish drill ship has left the area where it was operating southwest of Cyprus and reached Turkeys coast for maintenance in a move the European Union said would help ease tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. Refinitiv tracking data showed the Yavuz vessel reached shore and the Energy Ministry said it would now prepare for work in a new location. EU member Cyprus internationally recognized Greek Cypriot government has long been at loggerheads with Turkey over the demarcation of maritime waters and other issues. Turkish vessels began drilling for oil and gas near Cyprus last year. EU leaders last Friday assured Cyprus the bloc would punish Turkey if it continues drilling in disputed Mediterranean areas, after resisting Cypriot calls to impose sanctions on Ankara. The Yavuz was to be operating southwest of Cyprus until Oct. 12. Greece, a close ally of Cyprus, had called the work provocative. The ship finished work at the Selcuklu-1 well on April 24 and returned to Tasucu Port, the energy ministry said. Following preparatory work at the port, Yavus will continue drilling operations in a new location, it said. A spokesman for the EU executive, the European Commission, said: The departure constitutes another welcome step towards de-escalation and we hope for similar and further moves in this direction. Its an important signal, he told a regular briefing. Turkish seismic research vessel Barbaros Hayrettin Pasa remains off southeastern Cyprus and its operations there have been extended to Oct. 18. Regional tensions simmered after Turkish and Greek frigates collided at sea in August near a Turkish exploration vessel, but calmed after Turkey and Greece agreed to resume bilateral exploratory talks that ended in 2016. NATO announced last Thursday that Greece and Turkey, both alliance members, had set up a military de-confliction mechanism to avoid accidental clashes at sea. The island of Cyprus was split after a 1974 Turkish invasion spurred by a brief coup engineered by the military then ruling Greece. Turkey has no diplomatic relations with Cyprus and instead recognizes a breakaway Turkish Cypriot state in the north of the island. Monday, October 5, 2020 Youve got an incredible story inside of you and regardless of where you are in the process, it comes time to talk aboutYOU! Is your bio effective and memorable? Does it convey who you are as a person, author, creative, dreamer, and leader? Your bio and the photo that goes along with it are your first introduction between you and your readerit is so important that your bio reflects who you are accurately, impressively, and succinctly. This weeks guest is Nancy Juetten, the bio writing expert. Tune in and listen to Christine and Nancy discuss: What makes up a brilliant bio that really gets at who you are, even if it includes huge life changes The biggest mistakes youre probably making in your bio and how you can fix them Suggestions to make sure your bio is warm and authentic. Tips on your bio picture! And so much more! Plus Get Your FREE Ticket to Christine 1-day Virtual Transformational Author Experience About Nancy: Bye-Bye Boring Bio author and Get Known to Get Paid Success Mentor Nancy Juetten is fiercely committed to helping successful women business owners and emerging experts everywhere quickly get up-to-speed on the best ways to use the power of storytelling and free publicity to share their messages to get seen, heard, celebrated and COMPEN$ATED for their expert status. Clients rave about the big picture ideas, implementation tips, and messaging magic she provides. Guiding others to achieve authentic visibility that translates into winning results they can feel in their balance sheets is her passion and commitment. An award-winning copywriter with 20 years of success running her own profitable business, Nancy has been interviewed in connection with her storytelling and publicity expertise by CNN Radio, National Public Radio, the ABC Radio Network and by engaging and talented radio talk show hosts and information gurus from across America and the world. She and her publicity tips/expertise have also been featured in print stories issued by the Associated Press, RainToday, USA Today, Forbes.com, FoxBusiness.com, WomenEntreprenuer.com, and beyond. Working one-on-one with clients as their Get Known to Get Paid Mentor is among the best ways that clients welcome results they can celebrate in their balance sheets and beyond. Nancy is someone who inspires business owners to take control of their storytelling and media opportunities through consistent, winning actions every day. Connect with Nancy Juetten: Website: www.getknowngetpaid.com Nancys Book: Bye-Bye Boring Bio FREE Copy of Nancys Book: www.byebyebiringbio.com Facebook: Nancy Juetten | Raise Your Voice Make Your Impact Instagram: Nancy Juetten Twitter: @nancyjuetten LinkedIn: @nancy-juetten Connect with Christine Kloser: Transformational Author Experience: Register Here! Award-Winning Course: ? Get Your Book Done Website: ChristineKloser.com Facebook: Transformational Author Community Publishing: CapuciaPublishing.com Email: support@christinekloser.com More than 500 new cases of Covid-19 have been confirmed on the day the Government rejected a Level 5 lockdown. The National Public Health Emergency Team (NEPHT) has today, Monday, October 5 confirmed a further 518 new cases in Ireland. It brings the number of cases in Ireland since February to 38,549*. The latest figures as of midnight, Sunday, October 4 also show no new deaths reported to the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HSPC). There has now been a total of 1,810 COVID-19 related deaths in Ireland. Laois does not feature in the list of counties spotlighted by NPHET on Monday but a further four cases were notified on Saturday according to the latest county by county breakdown. Of the cases notified today: 134 in Dublin, 53 in Cork, 49 in Limerick, 34 in Donegal, 32 in Meath and the remaining 216 cases are spread across 20 counties. 252 are men / 266 are women 68% are under 45 years of age 30% are confirmed to be associated with outbreaks or are close contacts of a confirmed case 78 cases have been identified as community transmission Dr Tony Holohan, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said the deteriorating situation can be reversed. We have seen in recent days a significant and concerning deterioration in the epidemiological situation nationally. It is vital that we do everything in our power now to arrest the current trajectory nationally and very substantially suppress the virus back down to a low level of transmission in advance of the winter months. Do not become distracted from the core public health messages; wash hands regularly, keep your distance, wear face coverings where appropriate, avoid crowded environments, cut your social contacts down to minimum levels, know the symptoms and isolate yourself and contact your GP immediately if you experience them, he said. Dr Ronan Glynn, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Department of Health, said core priorities have to be protected. "We must work together to keep our non-covid health services open, keep our children in education and protect the lives of the most vulnerable to this disease. Solidarity is now more important than ever as we work to once again suppress this virus in our communities, he said. The latest county total figures for Laois and neighbouring counties refer to Saturday evening, October 2. Laois and all of its neighbouring counties experienced increases. Laois 497 - up four from the previous day. Offaly 754 - up 6. Kildare 2,663 - up 6. Carlow 300 - up 1. Kilkenny 483 - up 6. Tipperary 823 - up 8. Dublin 17,821. - up 101 . Read also: INFECTION RATE JUMPS RAPIDLY IN LAOIS The HSE is working to identify any contacts the patients may have had to provide them with information and advice to prevent further spread. The COVID-19 Dashboard provides up-to-date information on the key indicators of COVID-19 in the community. The revised figure for Laois is contained in the Covid-19 section of the Government's website. *Validation of data at the HPSC has resulted in the denotification of 1 confirmed case. The figure of 38,549 confirmed cases reflects this. New Delhi, Oct 5 : China can never get the better of us in any conflict scenario, Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal R.K.S. Bhadauria said on Monday. He also said that the force is fully prepared to take on any adversary. "We have deployed strongly in Eastern Ladakh. Under no circumstances can the Chinese get the better of us," he said during the annual press conference in Delhi. The IAF Chief also said that there was never a moment in the last five months when the force came close to an air strike against China. He said the force was fully prepared. Bhadauria also pointed out that so far there is no indication of any collusive threat from China and Pakistan. In response to American deployment in South China Sea, Bhadauria said: "We will have to fight our own wars. No one else will fight it for us." -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text That means a planned trilateral summit in Seoul between the leaders of Korea, Japan and China in December is unlikely to go ahead. Since the seizure was ordered by an independent Korean court after Nippon Steel refused to comply with an order to compensate the victims, there is no hope of the executive overturning it. New Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has told the Korean government he will not pay an official visit unless a court order here authorizing the seizure of Japanese firms' assets to compensate forced labor victims is resolved. On Oct. 30, 2018, the Supreme Court ordered Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal to pay W100 million each to four Koreans who were forced to labor for it during World War II (US$1=W1,169). When the Japanese steelmaker refused to pay up, the plaintiffs sought a court order to seize the stocks of a Korean joint venture between Nippon and POSCO. In January last year, the Daegu District Court authorized the seizure of 81,075 shares in POSCO-Nippon Steel RFH (PNR) worth about W400 million at W5,000 per share. The plaintiffs applied in May the same year to have the shares sold off. A diplomatic source in Tokyo said, "Prime Minister Suga is afraid of the backlash among his support base if Japanese corporate assets are sold in the early stage of his tenure. As long as the Korean government refuses to give its word, he will not visit Seoul even if the trilateral summit takes place there." Japan's Foreign Ministry has already informed the Korean government. Suga spent the last eight years as faithful servant to Abe in his capacity as chief cabinet secretary and seems determined to stick to the line that all claims for compensation were settled by lump sum reparations in 1965. The Supreme Court here ruled in 2018 that a treaty between government's cannot override the claims of individual victims. Kyodo News quoted a Japanese Foreign Ministry official as saying late last month that it "makes no sense" for the leader of Japan to visit Korea when the prospect of selling the Nippon Steel shares remains a strong possibility. Suga is also more generally sticking to his predecessor's line of denial of wartime guilt. Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, who started a Europe trip last week, has asked the German government to remove a statue commemorating Korean women forced into sexual slavery by Japanese forces during World War II. The statue was set up in a public square in Berlin at the initiative of a local Korean civic group last month. In a conference call on Sept. 30 with his German counterpart Heiko Maas, who was in self-isolation, Motegi said that the statue "goes against the position of the Japanese government" and requested its removal. Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato also said the statue is "not compatible" with the Japanese government's position and vowed to continue to call for its removal. Dhaka, Oct 5 : The Dhaka Metropolitan Police's Anti-Terrorism Unit (ATU) has arrested a member of the banned Neo-Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) militant outfit in Gazipur district. The 25-year-old Abdullah Al Noman Khan "was arrested on Sunday at around 4.35 a.m. in a raid at the greatwall Bazar Bridge area under Gazipur police station", Aslam Khan, Police Super of Media and Awareness of the ATU, told IANS. According to Aslam Khan, Noman was an accomplice and planner in the bomb attack on a traffic police box in Chittagong on February 26. During the raid, manuals on making explosives, extremist literature, two mobile phones and a training manual were also recovered. "Noman communicated via social media and other online networking apps. He planned to recruit members and carry out killings and other subversive activities to strengthen the militant organisation," Aslam Khan told IANS. Prior to his arrest, Noman was scheduled to meet his accomplice Morshedul Alam and seven or eight other unidentified persons in Gazipur. All the participants were newly-recruited members of Neo-JMB. Regal Cinemas announced Monday that it will temporarily shutter all of its 536 theaters nationwide on Thursday in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The second largest movie theater chain in the country operates 10 theaters in Massachusetts ranging from the Regal MGM Springfield to the Regal Fenway. Two months ago, Regal Cinemas had begun reopening the theaters it closed on March 16 in the wake of the pandemic. But Hollywood has been cautious about releasing new films and audiences have not returned to cinemas in large numbers. This is not a decision we made lightly, and we did everything in our power to support a safe and sustainable reopening in the U.S., said Mooky Greidinger, CEO of Cineworld, parent company of Regal Cinemas, in a statement. Despite our work, positive feedback from our customers and the fact that there has been no evidence to date linking any COVID cases with cinemas, we have not been given a route to reopen in New York, although other indoor activities like indoor dining, bowling and casinos were already allowed. The prolonged closures have had a detrimental impact on the release slate for the rest of the year, and, in turn, our ability to supply our customers with the lineup of blockbusters theyve come to expect from us. As such, it is simply impossible to continue operations in our primary markets. Cineworld reported a loss of a $1.6 billion in the first half of 2020, according to The Wrap. Britains Sunday Times and Variety first reported of Cineworlds plans to close theaters over the weekend. A tweet from Cineworld Cinemas late Sunday morning confirmed the company was considering temporary closure, but stated a final decision has not yet been reached. The decision came hours later and will impact 4,000 workers across the country. Regal Cinemas said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and will communicate any future plans to resume operations at the appropriate time, when key markets have more concrete guidance on their reopening status and, in turn, studios are able to bring their pipeline of major releases back to the big screen. In addition to the MGM Springfield and Fenway theaters, the chain includes the Regal Bellingham in Bellingham, Regal Cape Cod in Hyannis, Regal Berkshire Mall in Lanesboro, Regal Solomon Pond in Marlborough, Regal Mashpee Commons in Mashpee, Regal Independence Mall in Kingston, Regal Swansea in Swansea, and Regal Silver City Galleria in Taunton. Related content: The U.S. has urged the transitional government in Mali to honour its commitments to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Spokesperson for the department, Morgan Ortagus, made the call in a statement made available on the African Regional Media Hub. The commitment includes holding a democratic election within 18 months. Ms Ortagus said that the U.S. viewed the Republic of Malis establishment of a transitional government as an initial step towards a return to constitutional order. It will be important for the transitional government to fulfill its pledges to the Malian people. To strengthen governance , combat corruption, reform electoral processes and implement the 2015 Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in Mali. The U.S. called on the government to respect human fights and take concrete steps to prevent the violation of such rights by state security forces. The department also said that when violations occur, investigations should be carried out and those responsible, held to account. Ms Ortagus said that as a partner of Mali for over 60 years, the U.S. would work with all who are committed to the goals for a better country. We firmly believe that a democratic, prosperous and secure Mali is essential to the future of the Sahel. NAN reports that among the declarations adopted by the summit is that the transition government in Mali must be led by civilians, and that the return to constitutional order should be concluded within 12 months. Malian military was also encouraged to focus on securing the country faced with severe security threats from its northern part, instead of an incursion into governance. (NAN) JACKSON COUNTY, MI -- The loving bond between a boy and his new puppy was instant. But it was a photo of that moment that cemented their friendship for everyone else to see. A Jackson-area family was surprised to see their pet adoption story go viral in September. Photos of 2-year-old Bentley Boyers holding a 3-month-old puppy with a cleft lip, just like his, circulated on Facebook and on American TV talk shows and news channels. And as soon as he saw her, he instantly just fell in love and said, Thats my puppy," Bentleys mother Ashley Boyers said. "When he realized she had a boo-boo like he did, he pointed it out, and since then they have just bonded, Bentleys father had gone to the Jackson County Animal Shelter in early September without the intention of adopting a dog. But when he saw the mixed-breed puppy with a cleft lip, he knew his son would have to meet her. The day Bentley and the puppy met was unlike any other, Lydia Sattler, animal shelter director, said. The puppy, later named Lacey, was one of the last of two-dozen flown to the Jackson shelter from Mississippi to be adopted. You could see the love and the joy in his face in that picture," Sattler said. "They say a pictures worth a thousand words. You could really see in the picture, you know, just the pure joy and love his face and it was just such a cute match. Its so hard to put into words how meaningful this adoption is to all of us so we are going to let the pictures speak... Posted by Jackson County Animal Shelter - Michigan on Thursday, September 3, 2020 The story traveling over the internet has created an opportunity to show Bentley love and educate others about his cleft lip, Ashley Boyers said. When he was first born I had people ask me, did I drop him on his face. I said, No, he was born with a cleft lip,'" Boyers said. "Theres just rude people in the world. I want to spread positivity and thats what I really like because, not only does it help me, but it helps Bentley. About one in every 2,800 babies in the United States is born with cleft lip, a condition where a fetuss facial tissue does not completely join during pregnancy, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Bentley has had two surgeries to address his lip. Cleft lips or palates occur the same way in dogs as humans and theyre more often found in purebred breeds with short snouts. Though its unclear how often cleft lips or palates appear in mixed-breed dogs, veterinary journals say cleft lips can most often be addressed through cosmetic surgery if desired. Shelter officials say Lacey is expected to live a normal life with her birth defect. The attention from their viral story has left the family speechless, Ashley Boyers said. Theyve received letters thanking them for the story and donations in support of Bentley and Lacey. Their story was on Good Morning America, NBC Nightly News, the Hallmark Channel and in the Washington Post. Were the most shy people ever. But once you get us on camera, we tried our best not to be in our awkward phases, Boyers said. Its been somewhat overwhelming but the story has shown a lot of people that theres love even when dogs are different, and it makes us happy to see some good in this world right now with all the craziness going on in it." MORE ON MLIVE: 1 union, 2 factories, 54 employees on strike in Jackson area Michigan AG will no longer enforce governors executive orders after court ruling Jackson-based Rair opens new $1.5 million marijuana store in Bay City A day in the life of a Michigan family living the remote learning reality Narrowly approved two years ago by a controversial vote, the conditional-use permit for Greenwood Next Eras solar plant in Culpeper County expired Friday. The company wants to build its 1,000-acre project on farmland in the Stevensburg area. Virginia lawyer Thomas C. Kleine, representing Greenwood, last month asked the Culpeper County Board of Supervisors to approve a one-year extension for the power plant. The supervisors original permitgranted by a 3-2 vote with two abstentions on Oct. 2, 2018required that construction would have started by now. The Greenwood site plan still awaits approval by various state agencies, according to Kleine, in his correspondence with the county requesting the permit extension. Most notable among those approvals is the state Department of Environmental Qualitys approval of the plants stormwater management plan. Greenwoods plan must ensure rainwater runoff is kept on the site, which is less than five miles from the Rapidan River. Last month, the county Planning Commission delayed its vote on the project, citing the developers incomplete site plan. Kleine asked that Greenwoods request for a permit extension be put on the agenda of the Board of Supervisors Oct. 6 meeting. But the item is not on the agenda for Tuesdays meeting. Instead, it is slated for consideration at the boards Nov. 4 meeting. The Planning Commissions consideration of the site plan is suspended until the elected board hears the extension request, County Planning & Zoning Director Sam McLearen said. Meanwhile, in Richmond, the Virginia General Assembly did not approve a bill proposing, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a two-year extension of all localities land-use approvals. On Aug. 28, the state Senate approved the bill, which would extend until July, 1, 2022, approval of local conditional-use permits, special-use permits, rezonings and other land-use allowances that were valid as of July 1, 2020. Senate Bill 5106 passed by a 32-4 vote. Among those voting against it was Sen. Jill Vogel, D-Upperville. She represents District 27, which includes a small part of Culpeper Countyincluding Stevensburg, site of the Greenwood solar project. Vogel did not immediately respond to a request asking about her vote. State Sen. Bryce Reeves, R-Spotsylvania, who also represents Culpeper County, did not vote on the measure. Culpepers third senator, Emmett Hanger, R-Mount Solon, voted for the bill. On Friday, the Virginia House of Delegates declined to act on the bill. Del. Nick Freitas, R-Culpeper, has been working with Culpeper resident Susan Ralston, president of Citizens for Responsible Solar, to oppose the legislation. It is not so much a question of granting extensions as much as who should grant the extension, Freitas said in an email Friday. This should be a decision of the locality, not Richmond, and represents a dangerous precedent. The Virginia legislature should respect the authority of local counties to govern their own affairs, Ralston, president of Citizens for Responsible Solar, said Friday. Solar developers and others intended to use the bill to circumvent local authority and, this time, it didnt work, she said. Two years of residents opposition to the Greenwood plant, the Planning Commissions concerns about the developers revised site plan and the Board of Supervisors delayed consideration of Greenwoods extension request should send a clear message to Greenwood and other solar developers that Culpeper County has concerns over the siting of industrial-scale solar projects on historic rural land, Ralston added. Culpeper residents organized Ralstons nonprofit group two years ago to fight industrial-scale solar plants being proposed in the Northern Piedmont. The Piedmont Environmental Council also opposes the land-use permit bill. The regional conservation group said homebuilders and commercial developers are pushing the legislation to take advantage of the pandemic for a blanket two-year state extension of building projects. This state override of local authority ignores the fact there is already a process for requesting extensions at the local level, PEC spokesman Marco Sanchez said in an Aug. 28 social-media post. Furthermore, we know of no local government that has failed to meet an appropriate request for an extension due to the pandemic, Sanchez added. These decisions are best made at the local level on a case-by-case basis, allowing a locality to reasonably reassess whether that rezoning and development proposal still makes sense for the community. The Warrenton-based group was founded in 1972 to promote and protect the Piedmonts rural economy, natural resources, history and beauty. On Thursday, Culpeper Board Chairman Gary Deal joined Supervisor Paul Bates and County Administrator John Egertson on a tour, closed to the press, of the Belcher solar plant that Dominion Energy is building on some 1,000 acres along State Route 22 in Louisa County. Louisa supervisors approved the plant in 2017. Egertson said they viewed a mostly complete section of the project, but were not permitted to leave the vehicle or take photographs. It was an educational visit, he said, with ample opportunity to ask questions. Deal, the only current supervisor who voted for Greenwood two years ago, said Friday evening that the Louisa property he visited appeared to be an ideal site for solar. He said it was nestled back surrounded by woods with natural screening. Deal said the tour was beneficial because the group viewed solar panel and infrastructure blocks, erosion and stormwater runoff prevention measures and on-site material stockpiling. Dominion representatives were very good at explaining the details, he said. Last month, the Louisa County Board of Supervisors rejected a request to allow two more Dominion solar projects on either side of the Belcher site, The Central Virginian newspaper reported. The plant sites neighbors expressed concern about loss of rural character, truck traffic and runoff into area waterways, as have neighbors of pending solar projects in Culpeper County. In Culpeper, preservation of Civil War sites is also a consideration among critics of the large, sun-driven power plants that, as in Louisa, would feed a Dominion power line to Northern Virginia and help meet state mandates for clean energy. Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield has asked supervisors and planning commissioners to delay consideration of such projects until the Culpeper nonprofit group completes a federally funded study of the Rapidan Front, a nearby array of nationally significant Civil War sites. In addition, neighbors sued to stop Greenwood, claiming it will destroy their views, generate excessive glare, decrease property values and create excessive noise and traffic during construction. Courts dismissed their lawsuit, which delayed the project. Some Stevensburg farmerson whose land Greenwoods 350,000 solar panels will be placedsay the renewable energy plant will allow them to keep their farms and be good for the planet. Given that its permit has expired, the projects fate is uncertain. It is also unclear if the General Assembly will pass legislation extending the term of land-use permits. Culpeper Supervisor Jack Frazier is the only current board member who voted against Greenwood two years ago. Three new members were elected to the board last year. Stevensburg Supervisors Bill Chase and Brad Rosenberger abstained from that vote. Chase, the countys longest-serving supervisor and a former coal miner, supports development of renewable energy sources in Culpeper. He did not vote on the Greenwood project because the plant would include part of his farm. Rosenberger did not vote because he has a potential business-related conflict of interest with the project. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Mukesh Khanna has always been vocal about her opinions. The actor had earlier lashed out at TikTok users. Now, the Shaktimaan actor has slammed Kapil Sharma's show. It has to be recalled that recently, Mahabharat team was seen on The Kapil Sharma Show, but Mukesh, who played the role of Bhishma Pitamah wasn't present. The actor revealed that he refused join Mahabharat cast reunion on the comedy show as he found the show vulgar and cheap. Mukesh wrote in Hindi, "This question has become viral, why Bhishma Pitamah was not there in the Mahabharata show? Some say he had not been invited. Somebody says he refused it himself. It is true that Mahabharata is incomplete without Bhishma. It is true that there is no question of not inviting. It is also true that I was the one to reject the invitation." He further wrote, "Now it is also true that people will ask me how can anyone refuse a big show like Kapil Sharma. The biggest actors go there. They might go but Mukesh Khanna will not go! Gufi (Paintal) asked me the same question that those people are going to invite us after the Ramayana. I said, all of you go, I will not go. I was the one to refuse." Revealing the reason behind his refusal, Mukesh said that he finds the show cheap and vulgar. He wrote, "The reason is that even though the Kapil Show is popular all over the country, I do not think there is a worse show than this. This show is full of fuhadpana, full of double meaning words, taking a turn towards vulgarity with every moment. In which the men wear women's clothes, do cheap things and people laugh, holding their stomachs." He even took a jibe at Navjot Singh Sidhu and Archana Puran Singh, who appeared as special guests on the show. He said their job is to laugh even if the laughter is not genuine, it gives them money! Mukesh Khanna recalled a joke that was cracked by Kapil when Ramayan cast (actor Arun Govil) was present on the show. He wrote, "I will give an example. You will understand how poor the level of comedy is in this show. All of you must have seen the Ramayan show before this one. Kapil asks Arun Govil: 'You are taking a bath at the beach and someone from the crowd screams, 'Hey look, Ram ji also wears VIP underwear! What will you say?'" He added that he saw the promo in which Arun Govil, who walks around with the image of Sri Ram ji, just smiled! The actor asked as to how can someone ask such a lousy question to the person whom the world see as Lord Ram! Mukesh further added that if he was in Arun's place, he would have shut up Kapil and that's the reason he didn't go to the show. Also Read: Mukesh Khanna Calls Jaya Bachchan's 'Thaali' Remark 'Ridiculous', 'The Industry Needs Sanitization' I never expected my video to get so much attention at first I thought that maybe this was just the product of a really strong storm, Strelchenko said. But I had just felt awful seeing all of those dead octopi on the beach. It wasnt just one or two; there must have been 20. More than 10,000 patients with serious medical conditions are losing out on access to 11 new medicines which are "stuck in a backlog for over a year" because of a failure of government to fund them, it emerged yesterday. The new treatments are for cancer, colitis, migraine, short bowel syndrome and Parkinson's disease. Two of the medicines for treating melanoma and Parkinson's disease are manufactured in Ireland and most of the medicines are widely available across the EU, according to the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) which represents the main drug companies. It is calling on the Government to release funding for the drugs in next week's Budget. An IPHA spokesman said a government decision last July to stop funding new medicines for the rest of that year had caused a backlog of unfunded treatments. "The then-Minister for Public Expenditure wrote to the then-Minister for Health, saying 'no new dugs should be introduced for the remainder of 2019'," said the spokesman. He added: "That policy decision remains in place, with the exception of funding for a small number of medicines for Covid-19-related conditions. "Next year, the industry expects to bring forward 56 new medicines to treat a range of serious medical conditions - but unless there is funding for them, they will not benefit patients." Oliver O'Connor, chief executive of the IPHA, said next week's Budget is an opportunity for the Government to signal that it backs the adoption of innovation by providing funding for new medicines. He said: "Joint funding is our proposal. The State and the industry would come together to fund new medicines. It is the fairest way to ensure that patients in Ireland have access to the latest breakthrough treatments, just like many of their peers in western Europe. "That we are excellent at making medicines but poor at adopting them in the health services amounts to an innovation paradox. Clinically and reputationally, this is not good for Ireland. The Government should move to clear the backlog - and, in the Budget, provide new funding for new medicines in the pipeline. That would enable the industry to substantially contribute to the cost of new medicines, too." The IPHA has proposed joint industry-State funding for new innovative medicines in an agreement to succeed the extended one that expires at the end of January. Covid-19 has delayed the start of formal discussions on a new agreement. The proposed joint funding model recognises that both industry and the State share a responsibility to give patients the best treatment options. A recent survey by analysts shows that Irish patients are waiting 521 days before their doctors can prescribe the latest reimbursed treatments for medical conditions that are often serious. It examined 172 medicines licensed for prescription to patients by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) between January 2015 and December 2018. Ireland ranks 19th out of 34 European countries for speed of access to some new medicines, according to the survey. Germany and Denmark were top of the league. Srinagar, Oct 5 : Two CRPF men were killed and three others injured after terrorists attacked a road opening party of the police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in South Kashmir's Pulwama district on Monday, officials said. The attack took place in the Kandzal area of Pampore. Sources said the road opening party (ROP) of the CRPF and Jammu and Kashmir Police was fired upon by the terrorists. Five CRPF personnel sustained injuries and were evacuated to the district hospital, where two succumbed to their injuries. Additional security forces have reached the spot. The area has been cordoned off and a search operation is underway. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text (TNS) - Firefighters held the line or made progress on wildfires around the state this weekend, even as warm, dry and windy conditions in some areas presented challenges.Low humidity helped the Beachie Creek fire in Marion County flare up in areas inside the perimeter Saturday afternoon, according to fire officials. Helicopters quickly dropped water on those spots, with a total of 100,000 gallons dropped Saturday.Substantial numbers of people have been violating closures around the states largest wildfire, the Lionshead, which prompted fire officials to remind people on Sunday that it is dangerous to enter the area and they could be fined up to $5,000 and sentenced to up to six months in jail.Illegally entering the fire closure area puts motorists at risk of accidents or injuries from falling trees or fire burning across a roadway, in addition to accidents involving engines, equipment or other fire-related vehicles, fire officials said in a news release. If firefighters have to tend to people who become injured, it takes them away from ongoing firefighting work.A majority of people violating the closure have done so along Oregon 46 between Detroit and Breitenbush Hot Springs, where trees have fallen on the highway and more are at risk of falling, and on Forest Roads 2231, 2233 and 4693 where officials say the fire is still active.Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Peter Gaynor also traveled to Oregon over the weekend to visit areas damaged by the wildfires and meet with the states congressional delegation, governor and other state officials, according to the governors office.Heres what we know Sunday:Lionshead fire:Oregons largest wildfire has burned 204,385 acres as of Sunday morning and is 45% contained. Weather in the fire area is expected to be warm and windy today: a high of 70 degrees with wind gusts up to 23 mph, which is much higher than in recent days, according to fire officials. A Level 3 evacuation is still in place for Breitenbush Hot Springs and lower level orders to be ready to leave remain in place for areas including Detroit and Idanha.Beachie Creek fire:The second largest fire in the state stood at 193,282 acres and was 59% contained. There were181 personnel working on it as of Sunday. Some areas on the east side of the fire remain under orders to be prepared to evacuate.Holiday Farm fire:The fire east of Springfield has burned 173,094 acres and is 75% contained, according to a report on the interagency wildfire site InciWeb. Parts of the fire grew more active over the weekend, which was expected given the forecast for warm, dry weather. There are no evacuation orders.Riverside fire:Oregons fourth largest wildfire has burned 138,085 acres in Clackamas County and is 54% contained. There are 445 personnel working on the fire, according to fire officials. There are no evacuations in effect on this Clackamas County wildfire.Archie Creek fire:This fire east of Roseburg has burned 131,542 acres and is 86% contained, according to a news release from multiple agencies and the incident management team working on it. There are currently 605 personnel assigned to the fire and residents in an area along Oregon 138 are still on notice that fire danger remains and they should be ready to evacuate.Thielsen fire:This fire, located five miles north of Crater Lake near Diamond Lake Resort, has burned 9,975 acres and is 71% contained. There are 192 people currently assigned to work on the fire and there is an order in place for people to be ready to evacuate in case conditions change.-- Hillary Borrud: hborrud@oregonian.com; @hborrudSubscribe to Oregonian/OregonLive newsletters and podcasts for the latest news and top stories.2020 The Oregonian (Portland, Ore.)Visit The Oregonian (Portland, Ore.) at www.oregonian.comDistributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. TDT| Manama Goods imported by Bahrain Defence Force and Internal security forces are exempted from paying taxes. The move is as per a decision announced by the weekly Cabinet meeting chaired by HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander, and First Deputy Prime Minister. The decision also followed a memorandum submitted to the council by the Minister of Interior. PULLMAN, Wash. - Earth is not necessarily the best planet in the universe. Researchers have identified two dozen planets outside our solar system that may have conditions more suitable for life than our own. Some of these orbit stars that may be better than even our sun. A study led by Washington State University scientist Dirk Schulze-Makuch recently published in the journal Astrobiology details characteristics of potential "superhabitable" planets, that include those that are older, a little larger, slightly warmer and possibly wetter than Earth. Life could also more easily thrive on planets that circle more slowly changing stars with longer lifespans than our sun. The 24 top contenders for superhabitable planets are all more than 100 light years away, but Schulze-Makuch said the study could help focus future observation efforts, such as from NASA's James Web Space Telescope, the LUVIOR space observatory and the European Space Agency's PLATO space telescope. "With the next space telescopes coming up, we will get more information, so it is important to select some targets," said Schulze-Makuch, a professor with WSU and the Technical University in Berlin. "We have to focus on certain planets that have the most promising conditions for complex life. However, we have to be careful to not get stuck looking for a second Earth because there could be planets that might be more suitable for life than ours." For the study, Schulze-Makuch, a geobiologist with expertise in planetary habitability teamed up with astronomers Rene Heller of the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research and Edward Guinan of Villanova University to identify superhabitability criteria and search among the 4,500 known exoplanets beyond our solar system for good candidates. Habitability does not mean these planets definitely have life, merely the conditions that would be conducive to life. The researchers selected planet-star systems with probable terrestrial planets orbiting within the host star's liquid water habitable zone from the Kepler Object of Interest Exoplanet Archive of transiting exoplanets. While the sun is the center of our solar system, it has a relatively short lifespan of less than 10 billion years. Since it took nearly 4 billion years before any form of complex life appeared on Earth, many similar stars to our sun, called G stars, might run out of fuel before complex life can develop. In addition to looking at systems with cooler G stars, the researchers also looked at systems with K dwarf stars, which are somewhat cooler, less massive and less luminous than our sun. K stars have the advantage of long lifespans of 20 billion to 70 billion years. This would allow orbiting planets to be older as well as giving life more time to advance to the complexity currently found on Earth. However, to be habitable, planets should not be so old that they have exhausted their geothermal heat and lack protective geomagnetic fields. Earth is around 4.5 billion years old, but the researchers argue that the sweet spot for life is a planet that is between 5 billion to 8 billion years old. Size and mass also matter. A planet that is 10% larger than the Earth should have more habitable land. One that is about 1.5 times Earth's mass would be expected to retain its interior heating through radioactive decay longer and would also have a stronger gravity to retain an atmosphere over a longer time period. Water is key to life and the authors argue that a little more of it would help, especially in the form of moisture, clouds and humidity. A slightly overall warmer temperature, a mean surface temperature of about 5 degrees Celsius (or about 8 degrees Fahrenheit) greater than Earth, together with the additional moisture, would be also better for life. This warmth and moisture preference is seen on Earth with the greater biodiversity in tropical rain forests than in colder, drier areas. Among the 24 top planet candidates none of them meet all the criteria for superhabitable planets, but one has four of the critical characteristics, making it possibly much more comfortable for life than our home planet. "It's sometimes difficult to convey this principle of superhabitable planets because we think we have the best planet," said Schulze-Makuch. "We have a great number of complex and diverse lifeforms, and many that can survive in extreme environments. It is good to have adaptable life, but that doesn't mean that we have the best of everything." ### The first biobank in Australia aiming to improve research and treatments into rare genetic diseases caused by changes to genes on chromosome 15, including Prader-Willi Syndrome and Angelman Syndrome, will be established at the Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI). Prader-Willi Research Foundation Australia (PWRFA) founder and CEO Kath Jones announced the chromosome 15 disorders biobank project today, in collaboration with MCRI's Associate Professor David Godler and Professor David Amor and the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics (FAST) Chairperson Meagan Cross. "For the first time Australia will have a purpose-built biobank of different biological samples from people with genetic diseases cause by changes to genes on chromosome 15," Ms Jones said. "This is the gold standard for biomedical sample collection. It meets a glaring need in Australia, laying the foundation for new lines of research to potentially help thousands of families around the world." Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) and Angelman Syndrome (AS) are considered to be rare diseases found 1 in 15,000 in the general population. PWS is a leading cause of life-threatening obesity, while AS is associated with severe seizures that can be lethal. Individuals affected with either AS or PWS encounter significant intellectual and behavioural challenges and require targeted treatments that are not yet available. MCRI researchers and their national collaborators will recruit 100 people over three years with PWS and AS and collect biological samples from different tissues such as blood and skin cells, which will be linked to family/clinical histories, and perform detailed clinical and psychological assessments. Associate Professor Godler said this resource would help to better understand the links between the genetic changes that cause PWS and AS and the physical, intellectual and behavioural challenges faced by these individuals. He said a particular focus was on the mental health problems experienced by people with PWS and AS and how these might be treated more effectively. Data generated by the biobank will be analysed using advanced artificial intelligence software to identify biological pathways that are disrupted in these disorders, with the aim of developing new treatments. Data and biological specimens from the biobank will also be made available to other researchers and industry, maximising the impact of sample collection for people and their families affected with these rare and complex genetic diseases. The biobank initiative has been made possible by over $150,000 in funding. This included a $65,000 Perpetual 2020 IMPACT Philanthropy grant funded by the Laurence G & Jean E Brown Charitable Trust, $25,000 from donors to the PWRFA granted to co-investigators Associate Professor Godler and Professor Amor, $25,000 in-kind contribution from Professor Godler's lab, as well as, $45,000 for a two year fellowship awarded by FAST to MCRI Dr Emma Baker. Associate Professor Godler said the facility would help better diagnose and treat newborns, children and adolescents affected by genetic diseases caused by faulty regions of chromosome 15. "The clinical data will identify targets for support most relevant to the Australian setting that may lead to more effective models of treatment in the first year or to improve long-term outcomes," he said. "Increasing awareness of the early markers may help us diagnose these syndromes earlier, while tracking the critical developmental period from birth to the first birthday." Professor Amor said there was a great need to establish national and international infrastructure that would enable sharing of bio-specimens such as blood and tissue samples that could be linked to already established registries and cohorts. ### Available for interview: Associate Professor Godler, MCRI Group Leader Diagnosis and Development Professor David Amor, MCRI Group Leader Neurodisability and Rehabilitation HOUSTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Talos Energy Inc. ("Talos" or the "Company") (NYSE: TALO) intends to release third quarter 2020 results for the period ended September 30, 2020 on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 after the U.S. financial market closes. In addition to this release, Talos Energy will host a conference call, which will be broadcast live over the internet, on Thursday, November 5, 2020 at 10:00 AM Eastern Time (9:00 AM Central Time). Listeners can access the conference call live over the Internet through a webcast link on the Company's website at: https://www.talosenergy.com/investors. Alternatively, the conference call can be accessed by dialing (888) 348-8927 (U.S. toll-free), (855) 669-9657 (Canada toll-free) or (412) 902-4263 (international). Please dial in approximately 15 minutes before the teleconference is scheduled to begin and ask to be joined into the Talos Energy call. A replay of the call will be available one hour after the conclusion of the conference through November 12, 2020 and can be accessed by dialing (877) 344-7529 and using access code 10148673. ABOUT TALOS ENERGY Talos Energy (NYSE: TALO) is a technically driven independent exploration and production company focused on safely and efficiently maximizing cash-flows and long-term value through our operations, currently in the United States Gulf of Mexico and offshore Mexico. As one of the US Gulf's largest public independent producers, we leverage decades of geology, geophysics and offshore operations expertise towards the acquisition, exploration, exploitation and development of assets in key geological trends that are present in many offshore basins around the world. Our activities in offshore Mexico provide high impact exploration opportunities in an oil rich emerging basin. For more information, visit www.talosenergy.com. INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT Sergio Maiworm +1.713.328.3008 [email protected] SOURCE Talos Energy Related Links http://www.talosenergy.com As fervent crusaders for mental health, both Prince William and Prince Harry have testified movingly about their own psychological pain, talking graphically and publicly of the mental health problems theyve suffered in the past. But the pain they describe is always related to the early death of their mother. Nothing before that. It is as if Dianas death in 1997 provides them with an alibi and a cut-off point. According to the princes, thats when all their youthful heartache and subsequent problems started. But what about their parents disastrous marriage and the impact it had upon their feelings and emotional stability? Or the sad story of how their closeness to each other was damaged by the consequent royal and public expectations in their teens and early 20s? The fact is that William and Harrys psychological problems started long before their mother was killed in a crash in a Paris underpass. After the birth of Prince William, Diana hired 42-year-old Barbara Barnes as his nanny. Shed been recommended on the basis of 14 years loyal service to Princess Margarets lady-in-waiting, Anne Glenconner, whose five children Barnes had nursed with intelligence and care. In her only brief contact with the Press, Barnes said she saw no special problems in bringing up a royal baby I treat all children as individuals . . . Im here to help the princess, not take over. That turned out not to be the case, since Barnes rapidly discovered that she had to serve as nanny to her 21-year-old employer as much as to her offspring. Suffering from bulimia and the accompanying self-harm, Diana had reached the stage of slashing her arms and wrists. Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, with their sons Prince William and Prince Harry in the wild flower meadow at Highgrove The nanny soon found herself bandaging the princesss bloodied limbs, and stepped in firmly to assert control. Barbara guarded the nursery floor like the Vatican, recalled one member of the Kensington Palace staff. Trays would be grabbed and doors would be shut. It was her kingdom. The brothers tended to wake with the dawn, so Baba, as they called her, would bring them into her bed most mornings to play together, before giving them their breakfast and passing them on to their parents when they awoke. Diana would then take over if she didnt have work to do. But the princesss time was more and more occupied by the charities and humanitarian causes for which she would become famous. She also had an increasingly active social life, meeting girlfriends (boyfriends came later) to discuss the deteriorating state of her marriage, and she also continued to accompany Charles on his major foreign tours. All this meant that Baba spent more and more time with the boys, and became something of a surrogate mother, particularly to William whod been her solitary charge for two years before the appearance of Harry. She taught both boys to walk, talk and read. She comforted them when they awoke crying in the night. In the absence of their parents, Baba even took her charges away on their own family holiday without parents to Scotland and the Isles of Scilly where she set the agenda every day as any mother would. But less admiring observers felt that Barnes was getting too possessive with her boys and the princess came to share that suspicion. Matters came to a head at the end of 1986, when Barnes took a holiday to attend the birthday party of her former employer, the ever-flamboyant Lord Glenconner, on his Caribbean island of Mustique. There, the nanny was photographed alongside celebrities such as Raquel Welch and Princess Margaret to the intense irritation of Diana. Baba had got above herself, Diana decided, and she made that clear when the nanny returned to work. During the Sandringham Christmas break of 19867, Barnes resumed her daily routine with the boys as usual. But Diana cold-shouldered the nanny, sharing scarcely a word with her and sending her to Coventry until the family got back to Highgrove, where Diana brusquely informed her that it would be better, as she put it, if Barnes departed. One weekend, she just wasnt there any more, recalled Highgrove housekeeper Wendy Berry. Diana had given instructions that the nannys bags should be packed and all trace of her removed. No one saw her again. But less admiring observers felt that Barnes (pictured with Prince William) was getting too possessive with her boys and the princess came to share that suspicion Surrogate mother to Prince William for over four years and to Prince Harry for more than two, Baba Barnes had not been allowed to say the slightest word of farewell to her charges. She was forbidden even to send them a postcard. So far as the boys were concerned, she just vanished into thin air. Following the death of Diana in 1997, people remarked on how well the two young princes reacted to the unjust and unexpected removal of a mother figure from their lives surprised, bewildered and distraught though they were. In fact, ten years earlier, theyd had a little practice. From the ages of four and two, William and Harry grew up with two parents who werent sharing the same bed, who were more inclined to talk to the Press than to each other, and who were engaging in patterns of systematic adultery and deceit. They were also engaged in bitter warfare. Charles and Diana had never hidden from William that he would one day be king. And as the rows between his parents intensified, he came to find consolation in the knowledge of his weird and formidable destiny. Many little boys fantasise about brandishing the unimaginable powers of a wizard or a pirate chief. Well, William really was going to be a king, and he could see from the deference already accorded him how, when that day came, hed be able to exercise the authority that he could already observe his grandmother and father enjoying. This seems to have given the challenged youngster the strength he needed to endure the pain and confusion that any child would feel with their family crumbling bled around them. By the autumn of 1988, when William was six, people noticed a new cautiousness and sense of purpose about the young prince. The year before as Prince Charles later publicly admitted his parents marriage had irretrievably broken down, and Charles had resumed his full-scale intimacy with Camilla. As for Diana, in 1988 shed started her five-year love affair with the Life Guards officer Major James Hewitt. Williams response to all this was to become more reflective. The trauma of his parents marriage had matured him early, forcing him to abandon the egotism of infancy, to look beyond himself and to develop a precocious sense of duty. United States President Donald Trump made a surprise drive-past to greet his supporters outside a military hospital where he has been admitted since Friday for the treatment of the deadly coronavirus, drawing criticism from Democrats and a leading medical expert. IMAGE: US President Donald Trump gives two thumbs up to supporters as he rides in the presidential SUV with two Secret Service agents wearing medical protective masks, goggles and protective gowns in the front seat as they drive past the front of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he is being treated for coronavirus disease in Bethesda, Maryland. Photograph: Cheriss May/Reuters The brief drive through Rockville Pike in Bethesda, a Maryland suburb of Washington DC, that separates the National Institute of Health and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, brought cheers to his supporters who have been praying for the 74-year-old president's health ahead of the presidential election next month. "I really appreciate all of the fans and supporters outside of the hospital. The fact is, they really love our Country and are seeing how we are MAKING IT GREATER THAN EVER BEFORE!" Trump said in a tweet soon after his unannounced drive-past. Trump, a Republican is seeking another term in the White House. He is being challenged by former Vice President Joe Biden of the Democratic Party in the November 3 election. Trump and the First Lady Melania tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday night. Trump was shifted to the military hospital on Friday, which his doctors and White House said was taken out of abundance of caution. On Sunday, before going out to wave at his supporters, Trump in a video posted on his Twitter handle said he will give "a little surprise to some of the great patriots, who have been on the streets, and they have been out there for a long time". "They love our country. I am not telling anybody but you, I am about to make a little surprise visit," Trump said. 05.10.2020 LISTEN A former Municipal Chief Executive for Akuapem North Dennis Aboagye says traditional leaders must be free to contribute to political discourse. Some chiefs including the Okyehene and the Dormaahene have been criticized by a section of the public for endorsing the NPP and the NDC respectively. Article 276 of the 1992 constitution bars traditional leaders from engaging in active partisan politics. The ruling NPP maintains endorsements from chiefs cannot be classified as engaging in active party politics. Mr Aboagye noted on the Morning Starr Monday that the chiefs are simply playing their part in nation-building. He said the chiefs should be allowed to contribute to the discourse. If I listen to what Okyenhene, Dormaahene, and Otumfuo said, I dont see any partisan about it. I think the chiefs are playing their part. I am yet to see a chief who is wearing a party T-Shirt and involved in active party politics. But a member of the NDC communications team Benjamin Essuman says his reading of the Okyenhenes endorsement is that he is a direct beneficiary so hes defending his turf. Meanwhile, former United Nations Advisor on Governance Prof. Baffour Agyeman-Duah says the constitutional provision that bans chiefs from active politics is not enforceable. According to him, the law failed to consider the cultural disposition of traditional leaders as political leaders of their subjects. Speaking to Francis Abban on the Morning Starr Monday, Prof. Baffour said chiefs must be given the leeway to do politics if they cannot respect the constitution. I think it is in the best interest of chiefs themselves to stay out of politics. If the chiefs are not respecting it, then lets give them the leeway so they take the consequences after engaging in politics. The law does not appear to be working, they themselves do not respect the law banning them from active politics. ---starrfm London: The explosion that happened in August in the Port of Beirut was one of the most powerful non-nuclear blasts in history - releasing enough energy in a matter of milliseconds to power over 100 homes for a year - according to a new assessment of the disaster in the Lebanese capital by researchers. The researchers from the University of Sheffield in the UK hope that the new assessment can be used to provide policymakers and the public with more accurate information on the blast, as well as help first responders prepare for future disasters and save lives. The August 4 explosion killed more than 190 people, injured around 6,500 and damaged thousands of buildings in Beirut. After analysing videos of the explosion posted on social media, the team was able to estimate the power of the blast by tracking how the explosions shockwave spread through the city. The assessment, published in the journal Shock Waves, found that the size of the explosion was the equivalent of between 500-1100 tonnes of TNT - around 1/20th of the size of the atomic bomb that was used on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. The explosion also released - in a matter of milliseconds - the equivalent of around 1GWh of energy, equal to the hourly energy generated by three million solar panels or 400 wind turbines, the researchers said. They hope that by releasing a more accurate assessment of the blast, including an insight into how the shockwave travelled, it could be used to help with future disaster response planning. The data could be used by first responders to help predict the likely injuries and structural damage at various distances from a blast in future emergency situations. The disaster that hit Beirut this summer was devastating and we hope that nothing like that ever happens again," said Sam Rigby, Senior Lecturer at the University of Sheffield. This was an unprecedented event because never before has such a large explosion been so well documented," Rigby said. After seeing the events unfold, the researchers wanted to use their expertise in blast engineering to help understand what had happened in Beirut and provide data that could be used to help prepare for, and save lives in such events should they ever happen again. about the power of large scale accidental explosions like the one that occurred in Beirut, we can develop more accurate predictions of how different buildings will be affected, and the types of injuries there are likely to be at different distances from the blast," Rigby added. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor Massachusetts collected less tax revenue last month than it did in September 2019, but state tax receipts are still running about one percent ahead of last years pace a quarter of the way into a budget year that is drenched in uncertainty. The Department of Revenue reported taking in $3.144 billion in tax revenue in September, which was $46 million or 1.4 percent less than September 2019. Year-to-date tax collections total roughly $7.27 billion through three full months of fiscal year 2021, which is $69 million or 1 percent more than was collected during in the same time period of fiscal 2020. Before the pandemic, state officials had estimated that tax revenues this year would grow 2.8 percent over fiscal 2020. State officials may revise that estimate this month ahead of deliberations on a spending bill. Commissioner Geoffrey Snyder attributed the decline in September revenues mostly to drops in the withholding, non-withheld income tax, meals tax, and all other tax categories. Those decreases were partly offset by increases in regular sales tax, motor vehicle sales tax, and corporate and business taxes, Snyder said. Individual estimated payments declined slightly, and corporate estimated payments showed a small increase in September, and we note that estimated payment revenues tend to fluctuate over time and within each fiscal year. DOR will continue to monitor these revenue categories closely. DOR said September is a significant month for revenue collection because the third installments of both individual and corporate estimated payments are due and that the month generally produces about 10 percent of the states annual revenue, making it the third- or fourth-largest revenue month of the year. In its mid-month report, DOR said that it expected this September to be different and that the revenue report would also reflect the impact of the filing and payment due date extensions for regular sales, meals and room occupancy taxes. Sales, meals and room occupancy taxes for qualifying businesses for March 2020 through April 2021 will not be due to the state until May 2021. Through July and August, state tax collections were running $124 million or more than 3 percent ahead of the pace set in 2019. Despite that promising news, House Ways and Means Committee chairman Rep. Aaron Michlewitz said last week that it was too early to draw any conclusions. Its certainly good news, in particular because weve had such bad news over the previous couple months. So any glimmer of hope, I think we are running with and being hopeful with. But I think its still early to be definitive in saying that this is a trend of positive things to come, he told the News Service. Theres still a little bit more time that needs to be played out. And like I said, September will be another stepping stone towards understanding where we are and in a more accurate way. A hearing slated for Wednesday at which Michlewitz, Senate counterpart Sen. Michael Rodrigues and Secretary of Administration and Finance Michael Heffernan will hear updated projections from economic experts will also help paint a more complete picture of the states finances and how tax collections might play out for the next several months. Michlewitz said last week that the hearing may also reboot the budget process. Im hopeful that October 7 will provide us a little more substantial depiction or forecast in terms of where were going to go. And at that point in time then the governor has, by statute, he has to reassess the revenue number by October 15, Michlewitz said in an interview featured on an episode of the State House Takeout podcast. And so I think thatll be a good framework of really kickstarting the budget process and getting it moving.Massachusetts is operating through this month on a temporary $16.5 billion budget. The budget outlook for fiscal 2021, which started July 1, has been unclear for months and the subject of much speculation. Estimates of the revenue drop this fiscal year have ranged from $2 billion to $8 billion and House Speaker Robert DeLeo recently said he expects the shortfall will be probably more in the four to six billion dollar range. Gov. Charlie Baker has proposed plugging the $693 million shortfall in fiscal year 2020 without tapping into a reserve account or relying on borrowing. That would leave the Bay States $3.5 billion stabilization fund intact to be used to address issues in fiscal year 2021. Ukraine will invite the Russian Federation to the events of the International Crimean Platform for the de-occupation of the peninsula, but there is a doubt that Moscow will accept this invitation. First Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine Emine Dzheppar said this at an online briefing on Monday, October 5, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. We made a decision that the Russian Federation will be invited to participate in the events of the Crimean platform; however, given the uncivilized behavior of the Russian Federation, we do not expect it to accept our invitation, Dzheppar noted. She also informed that within the framework of the Crimean platform, the Crimean summit should be a key event. At the moment, several dates for its holding are being discussed, including February 26, 2021 - the Day of Crimea's Resistance to Russian Aggression. However, the first deputy minister stressed that it is difficult to plan something due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Dzheppar recalled that the Crimean platform should cover several dimensions: the highest political level, which consists of the leaders of the countries, top public officials; the level of foreign and defense ministers; parliamentary level; and expert level. The key task of the Crimean platform is to advocate for the Crimean issue at the highest international level. At the same time, this cannot be done without the participation of the Mejlis of the Crimean Tatar people and the leaders of this people. On September 23, President Volodymyr Zelensky presented the concept of the International Crimean Platform to the UN and invited international partners to join the initiative for de-occupation of the peninsula. As reported, the Ukrainian side announced the initiative to create the International Crimean Platform in June this year. The main attention was paid to the protection of human rights in the occupied Crimea, the release of persons illegally detained by the Russian Federation, as well as the creation of a format for international negotiations on the "inevitable de-occupation" of the Ukrainian peninsula. ish In the end, it turned out to be better than the wedding we had originally planned. Perhaps because our lockdown experience, like so many others, had involved death, loss and financial strain. When the day came around, what wed initially thought might end up feeling like a sombre, legal officiation was actually a jubilant moment of escapism. When our first wedding - the one that had taken a year to plan - was cancelled by our venue in March a week before the nationwide lockdown, we, like many couples, assumed wed still be able to have our big day in 2020. So, my fiance and I planned how we might need to adapt things. Either way, wed decided this year was when we were getting married, Covid be damned. On daily walks around the local common, as daffodils began to border the park bringing colour to Londons ashen patina and Wisteria stirred from a year-long slumber; discussing the logistics of our imagined nuptials brought positive purpose to a time defined by monotony and days spent talking to colleagues over buffering Zoom calls from the living room. We pondered how we might drive to Gretna Green without being able to stop at hotels along the way; we checked in with our original wedding venue; we even investigated our virtual options a brief investigation, as it happens, since Zoom ceremonies are not permitted in the UK. When our original wedding date came around, we got dressed up and celebrated at home with a family video chat, then walked down to our venue to say our vows. After a Spring that saw the mercury tip above 35, the 6 June saw torrential rain and thunderstorms. Serendipity, perhaps. We watched apprehensively as the government changed the rules to permit 30-person receptions, then banned them again when Covid cases rose. We brutally chopped our guestlist by two thirds. Even still, we soon discovered that, despite what it said on paper, a 30-person ceremony isnt really possible in most register offices anyway, since it relies upon the venue being able to accommodate social distancing. Eventually we bit the bullet and booked a date, deciding wed see what happened. We pinged off a non-committal email to our closest friends and immediate family saying wed be getting married on the first Monday in September and they may or may not be invited depending on government restrictions, but could they please cancel all their plans anyway, just in case? Recommended Bridal outfit inspiration for an intimate civil ceremony wedding Planning a wedding is stressful at the best of times but planning one in under a month during a global pandemic came with its additional challenges. Venues who were treading the precarious waters of re-opening cancelled on us, holidays saw us lose guests to quarantine and our new date falling on the first day back at school meant our teacher friends were out. The register office told us readings and music were not likely to be permitted, that we werent allowed to walk down the aisle and that wed have to sanitise our hands before the exchange of rings. It sounded every bit as dystopian as the Contagion life we were living. Still, we were determined to make the most of it. I ordered 30 bespoke face masks and 30 miniature bottles of hand sanitiser. Luckily, both our outfits had been hanging in the wardrobe for some time, so that was one thing sorted; we ordered flowers from our original florist and checked that our photographer was available to capture the strangest of wedding days. We were lucky to have snuck in there just days before government mandated wedding guest numbers were once again halved. Even if we hadnt been, wed still have gone ahead; there was only space for 18 guests to join us in the register office. And yet, it turned out to be exactly what we wanted. (Getty Images/iStockphoto) The I do or not to I do wedding-in-a-pandemic dilemma that many betrothed couples have been faced with in 2020 has changed our collective perception of what the perfect wedding should look like. After all, it happens to the best of us. We believe ourselves to be reasonable, measured humans who check the price per kilogram of groceries and tick the box agreeing to contribute to our works voluntary pension scheme then, suddenly, 10 months into being engaged, something inside of us switches. We no longer bat an eyelid when quoted an extortionate amount for flower arrangements or when someone suggests we simply must shell for out for a PA system. The day suddenly becomes less about the commitment youre making to your partner, and more about the one youre making to your bank to pay them back. The wedding industry, for all its confetti and love hearts, is pretty good at fleecing people. In a country in which the average full-time salary is 35,423, the average wedding costs 31,974. So, when forced to strip things back and venues and suppliers had to accommodate smaller numbers, the feeling we were being strongarmed into something we didnt want evaporated. Nobody wants social distancing at their wedding, of course, or to not be able to have a first dance, but removing the guestlist guilt, overinflated price tags and enforced traditions actually resulted in a day that felt more authentic to us. We didnt treat it like a getting the legal bit done day this was our wedding; there will be no do-over in 2021 (though I look forward to jetting off on our original honeymoon when Bali opens again to tourists). That mindset meant we threw ourselves into every part of the day and so did our guests. We booked the cheesy vintage route master Id always wanted, held our reception on a rooftop to ensure everyone felt safe and kept all our planned speeches. Because we all appreciated what we previously thought nothing of but that had come to feel like an utter privilege: being around the people we love. Though wedding receptions are now limited to 15 people, for anyone feeling unsure about whether or not to go ahead, Id say that while it may not be the wedding you had envisaged, it might just be better. For all the fun of dancing into the early hours with all your friends, its the getting married bit that ultimately matters. And the bill will be far easier to pay off. Six ways to make a small wedding feel special 1. Do more with less After months of planning and excitement build-up, drastically cutting down your guest list is initially going to seem like a disaster for most couples, says Helen Pye, Deputy Editor of Hitched. But it doesnt have to be. It can be a real opportunity to create a romantic, intimate and unforgettable day, she explains. Pye suggests taking financial advantage of your smaller wedding by splashing out on a few things that you might not have been able to with a bigger guest list. Glasgow-based wedding planner Fin Flukra agrees. Use having a smaller wedding to your advantage, she says. Perhaps you were having to compromise on your budget due to having more guests, but by having a more intimate celebration you can treat yourself to the things you couldnt before. And dont forget the honeymoon. It might not be the best time to go abroad, but there are plenty of beautiful hotels in the UK. If ever there was time to treat yourself to a luxury staycation, it is now. 2. Lean into the times The latest government guidelines decree that all wedding guests though not the bride and groom must wear a face covering. So why not make them extra special? After all, nobody wants Uncle Bernards Arsenal mask ruining the vibe Masks are actually a nice opportunity to create and provide small wedding favours, says Robin Weil, CEO of WeddingPlanner.co.uk Why not create masks that fit in with your theme and can act as great mementos from the day? But wedding planner and founder of bespoke event planning company La Fete, Charlotte Ricard-Quesada, advises to resist the temptation to personalise wedding face masks, as guests may be disinclined to wear them after the big day. Instead, she suggests, make them in lovely cotton fabrics that match your colour scheme. And why stop at masks? Mini antibacterial gel bottles, and any other Covid-19 related gadgets are also welcome right now, she adds. 3. Keep your photographer While a micro wedding might not be what you originally had planned, its still going to be one of the most important days of your life and tying the knot during such a historic time is something youll want evidence of. It may seem like the right time to cut back on some suppliers and that is something you and your partner will need to discuss. However, your photographer is not one that you should be looking to cut, says Weil. It's now more important than ever to capture those moments that many of your original guest list will be unable to witness. Most wedding photographers will be able to adapt their usual packages to allow for the brevity of a shorter day, whether you just go to the register office or have a reception afterwards. Reach out to your original photographer and see what they can do. The wedding industry is one of the hardest hit by the pandemic, so its also a positive gesture to stand by your suppliers. Most suppliers are up and running again and so will be excited to work with you, explains Ricard-Quesada. 4. Return to your Pinterest board Just because your original wedding isnt going ahead as planned, doesnt mean you cant have the colour scheme or decorations you spent months creating dedicated Pinterest boards for. Whether its a ceiling of flowers, a staircase of balloons, an entrance full of props of whatever your imagination has floating around do it!, says Ricard-Quesada. Do not downsize your wedding to the point where it no longer is your wedding just think of that gorgeous flower arch at Princess Beatrices Lockdown wedding! 5. Make the most of technology With the latest regulations around weddings permitting only small celebrations of 15 people, this means cutting your guestlist down to just 13 people, and perhaps even 12 if you plan to have a photographer. Its going to be tough but most people will understand and your original guestlist can still be a part of your special day. Why not embrace the digital age and livestream the whole ceremony? suggests Weil. That way, more people can be part of your day and you will be able to watch the ceremony back time and time again. If youre planning to go down this route, Ricard-Quesada recommends you assign a member of the bridal party to manage that bit for you. You want it done properly and tested so there are no glitches on the day, she says. 6. Have a proper reception Whether its a seated dinner at your favourite pub or a private space at a rooftop bar, make sure you book a reception and still ask your important people to give speeches. Dont treat the day like it is just getting the legal bit done. This is the day you get married. Make the most of it however many people you are able to invite. The key to making a small wedding feel special, explains Pye, is atmosphere. Pye suggests choosing a venue that suits a smaller number so the space feels cosy and intimate. Personalisation can also make a small reception feel more special. You want every detail to feel personal to you as a couple, Pye says. You might not be able to have the guest list you wanted, but you do have control over almost every other aspect of the day. Other liberal groups, emboldened and expanded after the election of President Trump in 2016, have long lobbied for similar policy changes. The 2018 elections produced a further leftward shift in the General Assembly, which represents an electorate where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans 2 to 1. The legislature passed a far-reaching, $4 billion annual plan to revamp schools earlier this year, but Gov. Larry Hogan (R) vetoed it because of the cost. Since the first positive coronavirus case hit the West Piedmont Health District on March 20, a detective of sorts has been on the case, assigned to trace every element of how the virus came to find that individual and how it might be spreading in the area. Sharon Ortiz-Garcia is by training epidemiologist, an expert is contagions, but more effectively you can consider her the leading investigator of the spread of COVID-19 in Martinsville and Henry, Patrick, and Franklin counties, which comprise the West Piedmont Health District. This has become no small task. In a typical day, she receives reports of all new COVID-positive patients in the district, and her job is to follow up with every one of them, offering instructions for quarantine, managing the illness and -- perhaps most importantly -- obtaining the names and contact information for anyone who has been in close contact with the infected person. It has been non-stop seven days a week, she said. As many experts today are trying to trace the outbreak of the virus that has infected President Trump, his wife, Melania, and various others in government, they are turning to experts such as Ortiz-Garcia. The sobering reality for many survivors is that the love they have for their pets is used against them by abusers. In fact, 70 percent of women in domestic violence shelters report their abuser threatened, injured or killed a pet as a means of control. But because as few as 10 percent of U.S. domestic violence shelters allow pets, nearly half of victims will delay leaving their abuser in an effort to protect their pet from the inherent danger of being left behind. "The bond we share with our pets is unbreakable, but for women and men suffering from domestic violence, abusers will often use pets to threaten and manipulate their victims," said Nina Leigh Krueger, president of Purina. "That's why it's critical to pave a way for survivors to leave abuse with their pets in tow, to protect the bond they share and begin the healing process together." CLOSE TO HOME Sadly, domestic abuse impacts the lives of many Americans, with 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men suffering abuse in their lifetimes. For journalist and talk show host Tamron Hall, whose sister was tragically killed by her abuser, domestic violence had a life-changing impact on her family. Hall, a lifelong pet lover, has been a longstanding and outspoken champion for survivors who passionately uses her platform to advocate for change. "The thought of survivors of domestic violence forced to leave pets behind because shelters are not equipped to take them in is a heartbreaking reality not talked about enough," said Hall. "I'm proud to be partnering with the Purple Leash Project and lending my voice to increase awareness and help eradicate this issue. Together, we can help ease one of the many burdens that victims have to shoulder." Actress Lucy Hale also is joining the effort. An outspoken advocate for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, Hale has been on a mission to give a voice to the voiceless having experienced assault firsthand. For Hale, the reality that pets are also impacted by domestic violence was eye-opening. "I can't imagine having to face the dilemma of staying in a dangerous situation or leaving my dog Elvis in harm's way. This is a heartbreaking situation for someone to be in, on top of the abuse they have already endured," said Hale. "When I learned Purina and RedRover were creating safe havens to keep victims and their pets together, I knew it was a cause I wanted to help champion." Throughout October, Purina and RedRover are inviting others to champion the Purple Leash Project cause in two ways: Empower in purple On Purple Thursday, October 22 , take the lead in raising awareness by wearing purple and snapping a picture while walking your pet. Share it on Facebook or Instagram tagging @Purina and @RedRoverOrg using hashtag #PurpleLeashProject and share why you support this cause. On Purple , take the lead in raising awareness by wearing purple and snapping a picture while walking your pet. Share it on Facebook or Instagram tagging @Purina and @RedRoverOrg using hashtag #PurpleLeashProject and share why you support this cause. Donate Consider donating to RedRover to support the Purple Leash Project. Funds will continue to help transform domestic violence shelters into pet-friendly spaces so pets and people can heal together. For donations of $60 or more (including a $5 reoccurring monthly donation), RedRover will send a limited-edition Purple Leash Project leash featuring the "Walk. Heal. Together." motto. Since founding the Purple Leash Project in 2019, Purina is nearing a $1 million commitment to increase the number of pet-friendly shelters in the United States and fund other efforts to support survivors with pets. Purina behaviorists and designers, along with hundreds of volunteers from Purina and RedRover, have dedicated more than 1,500 hours to renovating shelters nationwide. Purina also continues to advocate for federal resources and funding to support the creation of pet-friendly shelters as a founding member of the PAWS Act Coalition. To learn more about the Purple Leash Project, make a donation or sign up for ongoing updates, visit PurpleLeashProject.com. About RedRover Since 1987, RedRover has focused on bringing animals out of crisis and strengthening the human-animal bond through emergency sheltering, disaster relief services, financial assistance and education. For the fifth consecutive year, RedRover has earned a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America's largest independent charity evaluator. To learn how RedRover is creating a more compassionate world, visit RedRover.org. About Nestle Purina PetCare Nestle Purina PetCare creates richer lives for pets and the people who love them. Founded in 1894, Purina has helped dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives by offering scientifically based nutritional innovations. Purina manufactures some of the world's most trusted and popular pet care products, including Purina ONE, Pro Plan, Fancy Feast and Tidy Cats. Our more than 8,000 U.S. associates take pride in our trusted pet food, treat and litter brands that feed 49 million dogs and 66 million cats every year. More than 500 Purina scientists, veterinarians, and pet care experts ensure our commitment to unsurpassed quality and nutrition. Purina promotes responsible pet care through our scientific research, our products and our support for pet-related organizations. Over the past five years, Purina has contributed more than $150 million towards organizations that bring, and keep, people and pets together, as well as those that help our communities and environment thrive. Purina is part of Nestle, a global leader in Nutrition, Health and Wellness. For more information, visit purina.com or subscribe here to get the latest Purina news. Media Contacts: Cassandra Pacifico On Behalf of Purina 412.394.6699 [email protected] Sheri Madsen RedRover 916.600.8157 [email protected] SIDEBAR: Since the Purple Leash Project was introduced last year, 15 Purina + RedRover Purple Leash Project grants have been awarded to domestic violence shelters across the U.S. totaling more than $230,000 in support to create pet-friendly housing for survivors with pets. Refuge House in Leon County, FL - $30,000 in - Family Violence Prevention Service in Bexar County, TX - $20,000 in - Hope Haven of Cass County in Cass County , MO - $7,270 in , MO - Lydia's House in St. Louis County, MO - $17,120 in - Safe Voices in Androscoggin County, ME - $20,000 in - Northeast Georgia Council on Domestic Violence, Inc. in Hart County, GA - $20,000 in - OhioGuidestone - Personal and Family Counseling Services in Cuyahoga County, OH - $20,000 in - Victor Valley Domestic Violence, Inc. in San Bernardino County, CA - $6,065 in - Survivor Resource Network in Kay County, OK - $8,700 in - YWCA Charleston's Resolve Family Abuse Program in Kanawha County, WV - $20,000 in - New Life Center in Maricopa County, AZ - $20,000 in - Raphael House of Portland in Multnomah County, OR - $6,000 in - Safe Nest in Clark County, NV - $20,000 in - Community Beyond Violence in Nevada County, CA - $5,322 in - Avalon Center Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Agency in Cumberland County, TN - $12,200 To learn more about Purple Leash Project grants and how to apply, visit: https://www.purina.com/about-purina/purple-leash-project/resources SOURCE Purina Related Links http://www.purina.com/ Kenyan telecoms giant Safaricom is seeking to transform itself into a technology company, offering new financial solutions to anyone from small businesses to farmers, new CEO Peter Ndegwa told AFP. Listed on the Nairobi stock market, Safaricom is one of the biggest companies in East Africa, its success fuelled by its mobile money service Mpesa, which was launched in 2007 and has become indispensable in Kenya. Ndegwa, who was named the group's new CEO following the death of Bob Collymore, said the future of Safaricom would come from "combining technology and innovation." "We want to move away from being a telecom business into a purpose-led technology company," he said. "That will mean that we will use technology to create change in other ecosystems in the same way that we have done with Mpesa in the financial services area, in areas such as agriculture, health, education." As an example, he cites the product Digifarm, a mobile platform which allows farmers to access loans, insurance, as well as markets where they can sell their products. It also gives farmers information and advice on managing their livestock or crops. Safaricom is 35 percent owned by the Kenyan government, 40 percent by South Africa's Vodacom, while the remaining shares are listed. The company also wants to extend more services to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), a major driver of Kenya's economy. Currently with Mpesa, users can send money directly to each other, pay their bills and buy goods at shops and supermarkets, all from their cellphones. "We are working to enable SMEs being in control of their business and to grow their business," said Ndegwa. A new product for SMEs will allow them to pay salaries or suppliers via a special application. On the international level, the company is trying to forge partnerships with Visa and Paypal which would allow its clients to make money transfers across the globe. Story continues "In addition to that, we are looking at expanding Mpesa ... We have already expressed interest to enter Ethiopia, and we are going through that process." Mpesa has 25 million users in Kenya, and another 15 million elsewhere in the continent, such as Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Ethiopia is busy opening up its telecoms sector, ending a government monopoly under Ethio Telecom, which could allow foreign companies a foothold in a country of 110 million people. In May, Addis Ababa opened bids for two new licences. Safaricom announced a 13.3 percent revenue growth in its results for the year ending March 2020. md/fal/fb/np/cdw You might notice something different here. As we continue our evolution, our data and market news is now available through the Fastmarkets platform and a trial of this website is no longer available. Our new delivery solution allows you to access the prices and news that matters most to you in a way that delivers value, quality and a unique, fully customizable view for you. We are working hard to develop an experience that allows you to test drive building your view of our data and news on the new platform. In the meantime, learn more about us through any of the options below. Just like everywhere else in Saskatchewan, students of MacLeod Elementary School in Moosomin returned to classes in the first week of September. However, unlike previous years, a few extra precautions were put in place to accommodate the new health and safety protocols. One half of our students came on September 8 and the other half began on September 9, said Erin Skulmoski, Library Technician at MacLeod Elementary School. Another system put in place to help keep the children safe is the meet spot. This is where students meet their teacher at the beginning of the day. All MacLeod Elementary School teachers stood on the inside of the track in the childs classroom meet spot. This meet spot will be used throughout the day as a consistent place for students to line up during recesses and will promote students staying together as a class and social distancing. Each teacher walks their classroom out to this same spot at the end of the day, said Skulmoski. At the end of the day the meet spot is also used by parents. Parents will wait on the track at end of day when they are picking up their child or children in order to keep all of our students safe, said Skulmoski. There is also only one door where students enter the school. Students only enter the school through the doors at the back of the school and will need to meet on the track daily. We ask the parents to not drop students off at the front of the school. We have six Safe Drop Zones that we ask parents and students to use. Every time students enter or exit the school they will wash their hands or use hand sanitizer, said Skulmoski. Even lunch and play will look different this year as the school tries to make sure that social distancing is adhered to as much as possible. Students will remain in their classrooms throughout the day. One half of our students go out at one time to play in their play zone and then the next half will go out once the other classes are back inside. We have a staggered lunch hour, said Skulmoski. The only area where some students will have to wear mandatory masks are on the school busses. Students in grade four and five will need masks only if they are riding the bus but they will not need to be worn throughout the school day. The school will not be open to the public. Parents and guests must call first. Derry has a new police commander. The PSNI today said it has made a number of new appointments following a recent promotion process resulting in a new District Commander for Derry City and Strabane. Chief Superintendent Darrin Jones takes up his new role today. He said he is looking forward to getting to know his colleagues and the local community. Having served in frontline policing for the majority of my 28 year long career, my roles have included Area Commander for Lisburn and Castlereagh, Chief Inspector in East Belfast, and most recently Commander for Mid and East Antrim, explains Chief Superintendent Jones. I welcome the opportunities and challenges this new post will bring and look forward to developing our partnership approach to a community focused policing service. "I am fortunate to be working alongside a senior command team with considerable experience policing in the North West and look forward to getting to know our partners and the wider community. Chief Superintendent Emma Bond, the previous District Commander in Derry, has taken up a new post in Operational Support and Superintendent Gordon McCalmont has moved to Community Safety. BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - German stocks advanced on Monday as signs that Donald Trump's health was improving helped ease some concerns surrounding the 2020 U.S. presidential election. Trump's doctors said he's doing well and could be discharged later today. Investors are also pinning hopes on the last economic stimulus boost to the economy before the U.S. election, with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi telling CBS in an interview that progress was being made on coronavirus relief legislation to respond to the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. Separately, Politico reported that Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Pelosi consulted Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell about their stimulus plan talks. The benchmark DAX rose 78 points, or 0.6 percent, to 12,765 in early trade after declining 0.3 percent on Friday. Industrials led the surge, with steelmaker ThyseenKrupp surging as much as 6 percent. Banks were moving higher, with Commerzbank rising 1.2 percent and Deutsche Bank rallying 2.4 percent. In economic releases, the euro area private sector expanded only marginally in September as the service sector slipped back into contraction, while manufacturing output grew the most in over two-and-a-half years, final survey data from IHS Markit showed. The composite output index fell to a three-month low of 50.4 in September from 51.9 in the previous month amid rising coronavirus cases. The flash score was 50.1. Germany recorded a marked rate of growth, with its performance far outstripping the rest of the region. However, the service sector recovery lost further momentum with the activity rising at the slowest pace for three months. The services PMI dropped to 50.6 from 52.5 a month ago. The flash score was 49.1. Meanwhile, the composite PMI advanced to 54.7 from 54.4 in August. This was also above the flash reading of 53.7. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de With more than 68% of the worlds population set to live in cities by 2050, G20 member states need to ensure that national governments must crucially invest directly in cities as the engines of the recovery, the U20s 27-point Communique emphasised. A record 39 mayors and city leaders endorsed the official 27-point Urban 20 (U20) Communique which was officially handed over to the G20 the final day of the U20 Mayors Summit, held virtually from Riyadh. The Communique also includes an impassioned call for the G20 to commit and respond immediately to the climate emergency by substantially reducing greenhouse gas emissions to deliver the 50 per cent global reduction required by 2030 and reach carbon neutrality no later than 2050. Endorsing cities included Barcelona, Berlin, Buenos Aires, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Montreal, Osaka, Paris, Rome, Seoul and Tokyo. As cities seek to recover from the disruption of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic in a sustainable, inclusive way, the commitments, asks and policy recommendations presented to the worlds leaders in the Communique will play a central role in the revitalisation and reimagining of urban spaces. Further, the Communique calls on heads of state and governments of the G20 to work together in four main areas: *Partner by Investing in a Green and Just Post Covid-19 Recovery; *U20 cities call on the G20 to design green stimulus funding, corporate support, and other recovery funds to support the development of climate-resilient and inclusive societies and ensure this funding reaches the territorial levels and is reflected in International Financial Institutions (IFIs) lending; *Investments should be made in cities social infrastructure, in particular health, education and public transport systems alongside sustainability priorities, specifically by investing in shovel-ready carbon-neutral projects to generate green jobs and increase equitable participation in the labour force; and *U20 cities further ask national leaders to cooperate with us towards guaranteeing access to vaccines for the Covid-19 virus without discrimination of any kind and that technology and innovation equitably serve people during and following the Covid-19 recovery. U20 cities asked G20 leaders to work together with cities to respond immediately to the climate emergency by substantially reducing GHG emissions with the aim to collectively deliver the 50% global reduction required by 2030 and reaching carbon neutrality no later than 2050 - in line with the objectives of the Paris Agreement and taking into account the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Changes Special Report on 1.5 Degree of Global Warming. U20 cities also called on the G20 leaders to mainstream and strengthen the role and active participation of cities in the local implementation of international biodiversity, climate and sustainability goals - such as by investing in nature-based solutions and including cities in the post 2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). CIRCULAR, CARBON-NEUTRAL ECONOMY U20 cities advised G20 to develop enabling environments to foster the circular economy and the implementation of the 4Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle, and recover), enhance the financial capacity of local governments in adopting circular economy initiatives as well as promote research and capacity building on resource use, and, with a specific focus on mobility, invest in carbon neutral, quality mobility systems to support sustainable and affordable zero-emission mass transit. U20 cities further urged G20 leaders to increase investment in renewables and adopt a universal right of access to urban sanitation and waste management and promote zero waste societies. U20 cities asked G20 leaders to address equitable urban social safety nets and protection, growth of systems to ensure affordable and accessible housing, equal and quality education and employment opportunities for all, protection of all women from inequality and violence, and elimination of socioeconomic disparities between different ethnic groups. The Communique is the culmination of more than 1,000 pages of seminal research, drafted by three U20 taskforces over more than nine months of research and collaboration. The 27 policy recommendations made to the G20 form the engine of a drive to achieve equitable, carbon-neutral, inclusive and healthy cities in the immediate future. Commenting on the official presentation of the U20s Communique to the G20, U20 Chair Fahd Al-Rasheed said: Though we discussed and debated whether cities are as relevant today as they were prior to Covid-19, the answer, from all sides is a resounding yes. Handing over the Communique to the G20 and reflecting on what weve achieved in the past year, I feel a great sense of hope and anticipation that the work weve put can make a real difference in the days ahead. He added: It is a testament to this diverse and inclusive global group of U20 leaders that through the crisis we came together, through adversity we rose to the challenge and together we committed to improving the state of the world around us, to create a brighter future for all of our citizens, for the benefit of all humankind. Addressing participants, UN Habitat Executive Director Maimunah Sharif stated: I would like to thank Saudi Arabia and our generous host, the Royal Commission for Riyadh City for the huge efforts made to organise the U20 as part of the Chairmanship of Saudi Arabia to the G20 in 2020. Houston Sherpa Christopher Olsen said: The amazing work of Riyadh has built on what was achieved in Tokyo and Buenos Aires and has carried it forward. Its the cities of the world that face the biggest challenges such as climate change, human rights, and sustainable development. But the cities are also coming up with the solutions. That is where the opportunities lies. Demonstrating agility and responsiveness, the Special Working Group on Covid-19 brought together 13 cities from nine G20 countries who collated 32 case studies on how their cities have dealt with the pandemic. A survey of cities representing more than 75 million residents was then conducted. The findings of these activities have resulted in a set of policy recommendations, which were announced by the co-chairing cities of Rome and Buenos Aires. Al-Rasheed called on the mayors and city representatives in virtual attendance, to help people find a way to thrive despite the circumstances. He added: We must prepare them for a future being shaped by climate, contagion and connectivity. Finding the answers to these topics is why we are here. It is the reason the U20 comes together to form solutions for the urban world. The solutions we discuss, examine, explore and take forward will be the legacy we leave. Its our chance to determine the role that cities play in the next phase of our storied civilisation. Governor Yoriko Koike of Tokyo added: We all must work together to win this harsh battle against Covid-19, and achieve equitable, sustainable, inclusive and healthy societies. While continuing to take up the challenge of forging the future Tokyo, we wish to move forward in partnership with the cities of the world for a sustainable recovery, namely the shared goal of realising a resilient and sustainable society. Mayor Horacio Rodriguez Larreta of Buenos Aires noted: "The Covid-19 pandemic has made clear the vital role cities play in protecting both our people and our planet. Buenos Aires, as the first ever chair of the U20, is convinced that dialogue with the G20 is crucial and that the cooperation needed to foster a sustainable transformation must include cities. Only then we will be able to safeguard the prosperity of our communities and reach the targets set forth in the 2030 Agenda and Paris Agreement." -- Tradearabia News Service A technical glitch has resulted in 15,841 positive cases of not being counted in the official daily of COVID-19 log in the past week, England's health authority has admitted. Public Health England (PHE) said the issue had been identified overnight on Friday, and a rapid investigation calculated the list of cases that had gone unreported between September 25 and October 2. However, its chief sought to reassure the British public on Sunday that each of those who had tested received their COVID-19 result as normal and were advised to quarantine as per the current rules. A technical issue was identified overnight on Friday 2 October in the data load process that transfers COVID-19 positive lab results into reporting dashboards. After rapid investigation, we have identified that 15,841 cases between 25 September and 2 October were not included in the reported daily COVID-19 cases, said Michael Brodie, Interim Chief Executive of the PHE. Every one of these cases received their COVID-19 test result as normal and all those who tested positive were advised to self-isolate, he said. Amid mounting criticism, the health authorities stressed that the National Health Service (NHS)-run Test and Trace system for had worked to quickly resolve the issue and that the processes have been made further robust. We fully understand the concern this may cause and further robust measures have been put in place as a result, Brodie said. NHS Test and Trace, and PHE Joint Medical Advisor Susan Hopkins said the majority of the missing cases occurred in recent days, between September 30 and October 2, and that the glitch did not impact the basis on which decisions about localised lockdown action were taken last week. All outstanding cases were immediately transferred to the contact tracing system by 1 AM on 3 October and a thorough public health risk assessment was undertaken to ensure outstanding cases were prioritised for contact tracing effectively, said Hopkins. The advice remains the same. If you have tested positive you must self-isolate immediately for at least 10 days from when your symptoms began and we urge everyone who is contacted by NHS Test and Trace to provide details of their recent contacts, she said. The Opposition Labour Party demanded an explanation from Health Secretary Matt Hancock over the error. "This is shambolic and people across the country will be understandably alarmed," said Jonathan Ashworth, Labour's shadow health secretary. Hancock is expected to make a statement in the House of Commons to provide a update later on Monday. Speaking over the weekend, Prime Minister Boris Johnson admitted that there had been a "failure in the counting system" but insisted the issue was not ongoing. "All the people who had a positive test have now been notified and I think the data that we have is realistic, and again it's very useful in helping us to identify you know where the incidence is and what we need to do to tackle it," he told the BBC. It comes as a further 22,961 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus were recorded in the UK, bringing the total number of infections to 502,978. Another 33 people were reported to have died within 28 days of testing positive for COVID-19 as of Sunday, taking the death toll to 42,350. (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.) Trenton Village is an aged care facility in the US who are going viral online at the moment! The workers are cheering their residents up by creating a temporary tattoo parlour for them to use. "We like to think outside of the box and do activities that are fun and engaging." a spokesperson from Trenton Village told Metro. "The residents had a blast picking out their designs and showing *their tattoos* off!" Check out some photos of the tattoo parlour below... Kannada star Kiccha Sudeep met megastar Pawan Kalyan on Monday October 5 in Hyderabad. Kiccha, who is currently shooting for his upcoming film in the city, dropped in at Kalyans office. In the collage of photos that Kiccha has shared online, one can see him gift saplings to Kalyan. Captioning the post he said, Met a simple grounded human @PawanKalyan i must admit. Wonderful interacting with you sir (sic). Met a simple grounded human @PawanKalyan i must admit. Wonderful interacting with you sir. pic.twitter.com/Da50XnKaUC Kichcha Sudeepa (@KicchaSudeep) October 5, 2020 In the snap, one can see Kiccha clad in a grey round-neck full sleeves t-shirt while Kalyan is sporting a traditional outfit that includes a white coloured kurta with veshti. As per a report published in the Times Of India, both the actors in their meeting discussed everything ranging from movies to other varied topics. A source close to the actors told the daily, As most films in the country have resumed shooting, Sundeep discussed films with Pawan. He also shared his experience of shooting in the new normal with limited crew. As he knew the Telugu star is a nature lover, he gifted him a few saplings. He spoke about everything from his upcoming films to his views on social issues. Meanwhile, Sudeep was last seen in the Chiranjeevi starrer Sye Raa Narasimha Reddy. Presently he is shooting for Phantom which is scheduled to be dubbed in various other languages. He had also shared a set of photographs from the first day of shooting in Hyderabad that started from July 16. He wrote, #PhantomStartsRolling at hyd. Every minute precautions have been taken care of by the production and its nicer to see great spirits and enthusiasm on set. Each available person is taking every necessary step to remain safe. Hoping for everything to sail through smoothly. Best wshs (sic)." #PhantomStartsRolling at hyd.Every minute precautionsve been taken care of by the production n its nicer to see great spirits and enthusiasm on set. Each available person is taking every necessary step to remain safe. Hoping for everything to sail through smoothly.Best wshs. pic.twitter.com/1IWKVXYVXw Kichcha Sudeepa (@KicchaSudeep) July 16, 2020 Phantom releases in the coming time. Mathura: Home Minister Rajnath Singh has claimed that there has been not a single corruption charge against the Modi government and targeted Rahul Gandhi, saying the Congress leader is trying to ride a punctured cycle. Compared to the SP and Congress governments, not even a single charge of corruption has come to light since the Narendra Modi government came to power, he said on Monday while addressing a public meeting. The BJP leader was speaking in Tarauli village of Chhatta Assembly constituency in favour BJP candidate Laxmi Narain Chaudhary. Read More| UP polls: Political mud created by SP, BSP will help lotus to bloom, says Rajnath Singh Taking a dig at Congress-Samajwadi Party alliance, he said the cycle Rahul is using is already punctured and mocked the Congress Vice Presidents Khat Sabha during the campaign quipping, Chunav se pahle hi Rahul ne pakari khat (Rahul has taken ill before the elections could even start). He said the loan of small farmers would be waived and interest on crop loan would also not be charged if BJP would comes to power in Uttar Pradesh. He termed demonetisation as a decision taken in the interest of country and said the Prime Minister has tried to bridge the gap between rich and poor. The backbone of terrorists and Naxalists has been broken through the note ban, he said. He also claimed that Pakistan has been given a befitting reply to its proxy war in the form of?terrorist activities by the surgical strike in September last year. Accusing SP and BSP of doublespeak, Singh said, More than 4,000 incidents of loot and 7,600 incidents of communal riots belie Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadavs claim about better law and order situation in the state. Singh also said the sugar mill in Chhatta would be made functional if BJP comes to power. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Find all of the most important pandemic education news on Educating N.J., a special resource guide created for parents, students and educators. New Jersey is raising the income limits so more families are eligible for a new state program designed to dramatically cut childcare costs for school-age kids who are remote learning during the coronavirus pandemic. The annual income cap for the New Jersey School-Age Tuition Assistance Program has increased from $75,000 to $150,000, Gov. Phil Murphy announced Monday at his latest coronavirus briefing in Trenton. The state program provides up to $634 a month to cover childcare costs for students between ages 5 and 13 attending schools that are remote learning due to the coronavirus pandemic. This will allow more families to receive the support they need to afford childcare, Murphy said. The money from the $150 million program can be used to pay for daycare centers, YMCAs, camps or other licensed childcare providers offering programs to looks after students who cant go to class because their schools are remote learning every day or several days a week. The state began taking applications for the program last month. Those who were rejected because their family income was more than $75,000 should reapply under the new $150,000 income limit, state officials said. Under the program: Families can apply online at ChildCareNJ.gov. Applicants will be asked to provide a copy of their schools remote learning schedule and proof of their gross household income, such as pay stubs and tax forms. The money is available for students between ages 5 and 13 whose schools are remote learning either every day, part time or a few days a week. Children in licensed childcare centers could be eligible for up to $634 a month for full-time care or $317 a month for part-time care. Children being looked after by a registered family care provider could be eligible for up to $527 a month for full-time care or $263 a month for part-time care. The money is only available for students being cared for by a licensed child care center or registered family child care provider, not relatives or friends. The money will be paid directly to the child care provider for services between Sept. 1 and Dec. 30. There is no guarantee the state will cover the entire childcare bill. If the amount that we pay is less than the child care providers rate, the provider may require you to pay the difference, the application says. The program will be available through the end of December or until the $150 million in funding runs out, state officials said. Statewide, nearly 700 New Jersey school districts started the school year with students spending either every day or part of the week learning at home, state education officials said. It is unclear how many of those students are home with their parents, being looked after by relatives or spending their days with a paid childcare provider while their parents work. Some childcare centers, YMCAs, Jewish Community Centers and other providers have expanded their offerings to care for students who are remote learning during the school day. Parents can check with their countys child care resource and referral agencies for help finding childcare, state officials said. The state childcare tuition-assistance program is part of a $250 million plan Murphy announced last month to increase access to childcare during the pandemic so more parents can return to work. The plan also includes grant programs for New Jersey child care providers to help keep them open and pay for increased costs and personal protective equipment during the pandemic. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Kelly Heyboer may be reached at kheyboer@njadvancemedia.com. New Delhi, Oct 5 : The BJP-ruled MCDs have violated the court's order and did not pay the required salaries to 'dengue-malaria warriors' of Delhi, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party alleged on Monday. AAP MCD in-charge Durgesh Pathak alleged that the BJP-ruled MCDs did not pay Rs 32,000 salary to dengue-malaria warriors of Delhi as ordered by the court. "The fight against dengue and malaria cannot happen without the people who spray anti-dengue and malaria medicines across the capital. These people are also known as dengue-malaria warriors. They check the breeding of the larva, go door to door and spray the medicine. There are around 3,500 such people who work as dengue-malaria warriors," he stressed. Pathak also observed that the MCDs should clear their arrears and bonus from 2012. He said that the court also issued a timeline which was of March 31, 2020, to finish these works. He also informed that AAP moved Delhi High Court over the suspension of AAP councillors. Calling it "step-motherly attitude", Pathak alleged, "The BJP does not listen to the opposition or the media and now it is clear that they do not even listen to the courts. Today when we decided to expose the BJP, then the BJP leaders threatened these workers with suspension from work." AAP demanded that MCDs must release the funds for these warriors and follow the court orders. Pathak informed, "Some days back when the AAP raised the issue of salary the councillors were suspended for 15 days. The North MCD called the House twice in these 15 days. The AAP moved Delhi High Court against the suspension order. Today the High Court has rejected these two sessions and also served notice to the MCDs over the suspension orders." Jaipur, Oct 5: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Monday said the recently launched mass movement against coronavirus has received a good response from the people of the state. He said the impact of the mass movement, which was launched on October 2 in 11 districts of Rajasthan, and the No Mask, No Entry campaign is visible in the state as people are wearing masks and also contributing in the distribution of masks. Chairing a review meeting on the coronavirus situation and the mass movement, Gehlot asked the officials to ensure that only good quality masks are distributed so that the objective of the movement is fulfilled. Officers informed the chief minister that the feedback on the movement from cities has been positive and several organisations have joined it. Health Minister Raghu Sharma, Chief Secretary Rajeeva Swarup, DGP Bhupendra Singh, Principal Secretary (home) Abhay Kumar and other officers attended the meeting. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor The brains of dogs are not hardwired to spot human faces, according to a new study, but pet pooches have learnt to use sound and scent to recognise their owners. While humans use faces as a visual communication, they do not have a special status in the dog brain, according to a team from Eotvos Lorand University, Hungary. Using an MRI scanner, the team monitored brain activity in both humans and dogs as they watched two-second videos show human faces and backs of heads. The results from the animals showed that no part of their brains responded specifically to faces, but in humans the visual cortex lights up when it sees a face. Researchers note that the reason dogs pay attention to human faces is because they evolved to depend on their owners and developed techniques to recognise them. Scroll down for video Researchers found that our furry friends brains are not hardwired to focus on human faces, but respond with more excitement when an animal of the same species is in view. Researchers say that while humans uses faces as a visual communication, they do not have a special status in the dog brain Using an MRI scanner, the team monitored brain activity in both humans and dogs as they watched two-second videos show human faces and backs of heads The study was conducted by a team of Hungary- and Mexico-based researchers, who worked to compare how dog and human brains process visual information. Previous studies have shown that dogs can recognise their owners - they use a combination of smell, voice and a limited ability to tell the contour of the face. Attila Andics, who led the study at Eotvos Lorand university in Budapest, told AFP the study suggests that faces may be crucial to primates, but not so for other mammals. The two species differ in their visual communication and this is reflected in their brains,' Andics explained. She told MailOnline that humans don't have a region of the brain for recognising keys, a phone or our car - but we can still recognise them. This is likely similar for dogs when they are looking for their owners. Andics told CNBC that the dogs went through months of extensive training on how to not move while inside the functional MRI scanner. However, she also said that the animals were not forced or restrained in anyway, adding that they could 'leave the scanner any time if they want'. The study was conducted by a team of Hungary- and Mexico-based researchers, who worked together to compare how dog and human brains process visual information Attila Andics, who led the study, said that the dogs went through months of extensive training on how to not move while inside the MRI scanner. However, he also said that the animals were not forced or restrained in anyway. They can leave the scanner any time if they want, Andics continued The team recruited 30 humans and 20 dogs for the study, with the volunteers watching short videos of a dock and human face, and the backs of their heads. This research, according to the scientists, is the first directly comparative, noninvasive visual neuroimaging study of a non-primate and a primate species. After brain response data was collected from the human subjects and dogs the team found that both responded to videos depending on whether it was showing an individual from their own species. Earlier, our research group already showed a similar correspondence between dog and human brains for voice processing, said Andics. We now see that species-sensitivity is an important organizing principle in the mammalian brain for processing social stimuli, in both the auditory and the visual modality. Regarding differences, the study found no brain areas in dogs that encode whether the viewed image is a face or a back-of-the-head -whereas in humans this is a crucial distinction. 'Our new brain imaging study does not suggest dogs would not be able to recognize their owners' faces,' Andics told MailOnline. 'What it shows is that dogs, unlike humans, do not have specialized brain regions to process faces.' While there may not be a dedicated region of the dog brain for human faces, that doesn't mean their brain isn't involved in recognising their owner. ''We recognize our own car or phone, while we most probably do not have a highly specialized brain region to process cars or phones,' Andics told MailOnline. 'This is probably similar with dogs, who learnt that humans and also human faces are important, and so they pay attention, learn about faces and with experience they get better.' After brain response data was collected from the human subjects and dogs the team found that both responded to videos depending on whether it was showing an individual from their own species Researchers also identified dog and human brain regions that showed a similar activity pattern in response to the videos. Raul Hernandez-Perez, the other first author of the study and coordinator of the data collection in Mexico, said: This so-called representational similarity analysis can directly compare brain activity patterns across species. 'Interestingly, similarities between dog and human activity patterns were stronger for what we named functional matching (comparing activity for dog face in the dog brain to activity for human face in the human brain), than for physical matching (comparing activity for dog face in the dog brain to activity for dog face in the human brain).' 'This shows that here we may have tapped into high-level categorical processing of social information rather than low-level visual processing, in dogs as well as in humans. NEW YORK, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Sourcing Group, LLC, a Manhattan-headquartered provider of technology, print and branded merchandise solutions, today announced that it has partnered with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to market the Sunflower Program across North America. The Sunflower Program seeks to create awareness in organizations, businesses, and other individuals for people with hidden disabilities. Wearing an item with the Sunflower such as a lanyard or PPE allows a person to discreetly convey to others that they have a hidden disability and may need additional help, support or patience. Hidden, or invisible, disabilities include those that may not immediately be obvious to others, such as autism, dementia, Parkinsons Disease or chronic pain. The sunflower was chosen as a symbol for its association with happiness, positivity, and strength, as well as growth and confidence. Hidden Disabilities Sunflower began in the UK in 2016 and has gained much traction over the past few years, with the symbol now widely recognized across the region. While the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is already acknowledged by a handful of major airports within the United States, the partnership between The Sourcing Group and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower will be the first organized initiative to introduce the Sunflower to North America at large. Paul White, Managing Director of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme Limited, says I am delighted to welcome The Sourcing Group as the North America partner for the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. I am positive that this will be a hugely successful partnership that will help to raise awareness of and support people with hidden disabilities across the US and beyond. More than 32 million individuals in the United States have a hidden disability, and it can be a painful, exhausting and isolating experience. The simple visual cue of the Sunflower allows others to better identify and acknowledge the daily challenges faced by people living with a hidden disability. The Sourcing Group and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower will be working directly with companies and organizations across North America to implement the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower in their workspaces, and will make Sunflower lanyards and other apparel available for sale to individuals as well as via an online retail site. The Sourcing Group is excited to see this initiative spread, and we are proud to play a part in making a difference in the lives of people throughout the US, said Lynn Smith, CMO, The Sourcing Group. As we have already seen in the UK, this will make a direct, positive impact on the health, well-being, and daily experience of so many people, allowing their invisible disabilities to be visible when they need to be. To learn more or to order products, visit the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower website at https://hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/us/. Companies who would like to participate in the program please contact Join.USA@hiddendisabilitiesstore.com. About The Sourcing Group The Sourcing Group was founded in 2005 by Dennis Clemente and Billy Caan with a simple commitment, that we would do whatever it takes to service our most valuable assets...our customers. We are dedicated to helping customers simplify the management of their branded materials by offering innovative technology, industry expertise, and unparalleled service. We believe strongly in our people, our company culture, and our customer advocate mentality. All of us at TSG are engaged in the process and fully empowered to make decisions that help our customers make the best use of their time, their resources, and their money. (www.thesourcinggroup.com) Rich Fury/Getty Images for Def Jam RecordingsTaraji P. Henson is taking her commitment to spread awareness about mental health to the next level. On Monday, Facebook Watch announced they had greenlit Henson's new show, tentatively called Peace of Mind with Taraji, that will spotlight the challenging mental health issues that we face -- particularly those within the Black community. Co-hosted by her longtime best friend Tracie Jade Jenkins, the new show will consist of personal interviews with celebrities, experts and everyday people. The show's goal is to provide support, bring awareness and help eliminate the stigmas of mental health issues. According to Facebook, each episode will focus on a different mental health topic. Ive long been a mental health advocate for the Black community and created the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation in 2018 that has provided resources to thousands of people who are struggling, said Henson in a statement. Im looking forward to bringing this new talk series to Facebook Watch, where I can continue to create conversation around an issue that is near and dear to my heart. Hensons Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation is named in honor of her father, who suffered with mental health challenges as a result of his tour of duty in the Vietnam War. The actress joins the the growing list of talent partnering with Facebook Watch for original shows, including Red Table Talk with Jada Pinkett Smith, and STEVE on Watch with Steve Harvey. Peace of Mind with Taraji is expected to begin production later this year. By Candice Williams Copyright 2020, ABC Audio. All rights reserved. The speed at which Barnes' plane was descending caused concern for the air traffic controllers, based on their communications, Cox said. The characteristics of this crash indicate there was a loss of control during flight, he said, adding finding out the "why" is what investigators will be trying to do. What's often key to a crash investigation is looking at the interaction between what the plane does and how the pilot interacts with the aircraft, said Daniel Rose, an attorney who represents the Glazers' estate in a lawsuit against the plane's manufacturer, Daher-Socata. Rose's firm, the New York City-based Kreindler & Kreindler, has represented several families in cases involving planes made by Daher-Socata. "If the plane does something wrong, it really pushes a pilot's abilities to the limits, if not beyond," said Rose, who added that "by all accounts" Barnes was a "very capable pilot." While there are some similarities between the crash that killed the Glazers in 2014 and Friday's crash, there are also some differences with what happened in Pembroke, Rose said. By PTI MUMBAI: The Bombay High Court on Monday closed all arguments and reserved its verdict on the petition filed by actor Kangana Ranaut against the demolition of a part of her bungalow in Mumbai by the city civic body. A bench of Justices S J Kathawalla and R I Chagla conducted hearings on the plea last week before closing it for orders on Monday. Ranaut approached the high court on September 9 after the demolition of a part of her bungalow in Pali Hill area here by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). She had sought that the demolition is declared illegal and the court direct BMC to pay her Rs 2 crore as damages. Ranaut, through her counsel Dr. Birendra Saraf, had alleged that the BMC carried out the demolition out of malice following a comment she made against the Mumbai Police that irked the Shiv Sena-led government in Maharashtra. She also cited an alleged threat given to her by Shiv Sena's chief spokesperson Sanjay Raut in an interview. Saraf told the HC during previous hearings that the demolition was carried out on September 9, the same day as the interview. The BMC's counsels, Anil Sakhre, Joel Carlos, and Aspi Chinoy, had, however, denied the actor's allegations. ALSO READ | Did you act in other cases with the same speed, HC asks BMC on Kangana Ranaut bungalow demolition They said the BMC had simply been performing its statutory duty in demolishing such portions of the bungalow that Ranaut had altered illegally. In an affidavit filed through Carlos, the civic body alleged that despite making illegal structural changes, Ranaut had approached the court for relief. This was an abuse of the process of law, the BMC said, and urged the HC to dismiss her plea and impose a cost on her. Raut also told the court through his counsel Pradeep Thorat that the BMC's action had nothing to do with his interview or any other comments made on Ranaut. During the previous hearings, the bench questioned the BMC's swiftness in demolishing Ranaut's property. It also stayed the demolition through an interim order and noted that had the BMC shown similar swiftness in all cases of illegal construction, Mumbai would have been a very different city. The court had also asked Raut if it befitted a parliamentarian to use ungraceful language against a citizen? "Don't you have any grace?" the HC asked after viewing a clip of the interview where Raut asked "what is law," responding to a question on if he would take legal action against Ranaut for having compared Mumbai to PoK in a tweet. The HC on Monday also accepted written submissions from Dr. Saraf and the BMC summing up their arguments before closing the matter for orders. Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Dr Blade Nzimande has published a directive outlining funding and tuition guidelines for the 2020 academic year for public higher education institutions. This also provides additional information on the return-to-campus plans outlined by Nzimande last week. The directive gazetted on 5 October 2020 includes background on the national, co-ordinated plan for the completion of the 2020 academic year as well as the allocation of funds from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). It notes that the lockdown has resulted in a number of changes to the 2020 academic year, with the majority of higher education students returning home under the level 5 lockdown in March 2020, which saw the initial closure of universities and other institutions. The approach has been to ensure that all considerations are based on saving lives and saving the academic year, while giving all students a fair opportunity to succeed academically and complete the 2020 academic year, the directive states. While the majority of students have not been living in their on- or off-campus-based accommodation for parts of the 2020 academic year, remote multi-modal teaching and learning has continued for students and will continue for those who have not returned under the current temporary lockdown regulations. The directive outlined the following considerations regarding the 2020 academic year: The 2020 academic year will be extended and is likely to only be completed in the first part of the 2021 calendar year. All public higher education institutions have committed to complete the 2020 academic year. The exact dates will differ for institutions but will include periods of remote teaching and learning and face to face /contact teaching when allowed, to ensure that all students are given a fair opportunity to complete the academic year. NSFAS has continued to disburse allowances to all NSFAS beneficiaries while the 2020 academic year is underway. The cost for tuition should remain at the same level for the 2020 academic year regardless of the time frame for a student to complete and the mode of delivery for completion. The cost for university-owned accommodation remains at the same level for the academic year, regardless of its length, capped to the end of March 2021. NSFAS allowances have continued to be paid to students during the lockdown period and therefore NSFAS students are expected to continue to pay private accommodation providers in terms of the original lease agreements. The extension of the academic year has resulted in multiple universities adopting their own approaches to ensure its completion in line with the national strategy. Students to return under level 1 Speaking last week, Nzimande said that universities are now able to allow local and international students back to campus. However, he added that this would be subject to each universitys own risk assessment and strategy for ensuring the completion of the 2020 academic year. All universities are implementing their plans to return all students and staff from 1 October subject to any restrictions linked to their own risk assessment due to their local context and conditions, he said. Returning international students, who remain outside the country, need to meet the requirements of the COGTA regulations, which include having a test not older than 72 hours, showing that they are negative for the virus on arrival in South Africa. If not, they will need to go into quarantine at their own expense for at least 10 days before proceeding to their respective institutions, Nzimande said. Nzimande said at the time that 10 universities aim to complete the academic year before the end of the 2020 calendar year, while four plan to end in January 2021, seven in February 2021, and five plan to complete in March 2021. With the announcement of the National Senior Certificate examination results expected late in February next year, Nzimande said the new academic year for first-year students would be staggered between 8 March 2021 and 12 April 2021. Saf-Gard Safety Shoe Company, a leading supplier of safety footwear was recently named as one of the Triads Fast 50. Along with forty-nine additional companies, Saf-Gard proved to be one of the fastest-growing companies in the area. Saf-Gard has been in the safety shoe industry since 1980, when the company first opened its doors with founders Bob and Ann Kubis, and one additional employee filling all roles. Since then, Saf-Gard has grown and expanded from a three-person operation to having 75 employees within the state of North Carolina, and over 300 nationally. Corporate Director of Marketing, Sheri Fording offered the following statement: We are thrilled to once again be a part of this prestigious list. In a year of unprecedented challenges, we are so very proud of our hard-working employees and grateful for our loyal customers that have continued to come back and utilize our services and products. We congratulate all of the honorees and look forward to sharing this honor on October 22nd. In order to be eligible for this award, companies must be a private, for-profit business with headquarters in the Triad. In addition, they also need to have completed three complete fiscal years, with a minimum of $2 million in revenue in 2019. All fifty companies will be ranked and announced during a virtual event that will be held on Thursday, October 22nd, in addition to a special Triad Business Journal Publication. About Saf-Gard Safety Shoe Company and SR Max: Saf-Gard Safety Shoe Company provides high-quality safety footwear and products to both B2B and B2C customers. Saf-Gard offers corporate programs that can be tailored to any company, large or small. Saf-Gard offers a multi-channel approach to service with websites, shoemobiles (a store on wheels), and retail locations. Saf-Gard proudly carries safety and slip-resistant shoes from top brands including Wolverine, HYTEST, Timberland PRO, KEEN Utility, SR Max (its personal brand), and more! To serve the restaurant, healthcare, grocery, hospitality, and manufacturing industries, Saf-Gards sister company, SR Max, manufactures its own line of slip-resistant shoes, all of which feature the patented MaxTrax outsole. In addition to the SR Max exclusive styles, we also carry several brands and styles that feature our incredible outsole technology or a highly rated slip-resistant outsole such as Timberland PRO, SKECHERS Work, Rockport Works, Dr. Martens, and more! D onald Trump has been mocked for apparently signing a blank piece of paper in an attempt to show him working while battling coronavirus in hospital. The White House released photos of the US president on Saturday night, appearing hard at work in his suite at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre. After a "very concerning" period on Friday, Mr Trump could be discharged from hospital on Monday as his condition continues to improve, doctors said on Sunday. Sharing the photos of him at the hospital, the president's daughter, Ivanka Trump, said on Twitter: "Nothing can stop him from working for the American people. RELENTLESS!" But eagled-eyed commentators have accused Mr Trump of staging the photos. The president appears to be signing a blank piece of paper (via REUTERS) / via Reuters White House reporter Andrew Feinberg took a closer look at the photos and found that Mr Trump "appears to be signing his name to a blank sheet of paper". "The White House has released these photos which purport to show @realDonaldTrump 'at work' at Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre," he wrote on Twitter. "ZOOM: @realDonaldTrump appears to be signing his name to a blank sheet of paper in this photo." Meanwhile, Jon Ostrower, editor-in-chief of The Air Current, looked at the data from the photos, and revealed they were taken 10 minutes apart but showed Mr Trump working in two different places. "The photos released by the WH tonight of the president working at Walter Reed were taken 10 minutes apart at 5:25:39 pm and 5:35:40 pm ET Saturday, according to the EXIF data embedded in both AP wire postings that were shared by the White House this evening, he said on Twitter. Historian Alex von Tunzelmann added: Not a huge surprise that these photos are staged - and Im amused by those pointing out that if you zoom in hes just signing a blank sheet of paper - but its genuinely appalling that he still wont wear a mask. "I hope his vanity hasnt caused the photographer to be infected. Others on social media branded the president a "reality TV star". "As far as hes concerned, he just had to shoot a couple of promos for the look presidential bit he performs," they said. Another wrote: "Thats the only kind of work he knows how to do. "And in his mind, as long as he makes it look like hes working and his base believes it, thats every bit as good, if not better, than actually doing something." Speaking outside the hospital on Sunday, the president's medical team said his condition had "continued to improve". Dr Brian Garibaldi, a specialist in pulmonary critical care, said Mr Trump received a second dose of remdesivir on Saturday, along with a dose of dexamethasone following a drop in oxygen levels. Donald Trump has 'learned a lot' about Covid-19 Dr Garibaldi said Mr Trump was given dexamethasone in response to "transient low oxygen levels". "He received his first dose of that yesterday and our plan is to continue that for the time being," he said. Dr Conley confirmed the president had a "high fever" and a blood oxygen level below 94 per cent on Friday. The president greeted supporters from his car on Sunday (REUTERS) / Reuters Dr Conley said the president's oxygen level had also dropped to 93 per cent on Saturday, but he was not experiencing breathing difficulties. His oxygen level currently stands at 98 per cent, the president's medical team said. Mr Trump released a four-minute video on Saturday in which he said the "real test" of his condition will come over the next few days. "Over the next period of a few days, I guess that's the real test, so we'll be seeing what happens over those next couple of days," Mr Trump said into the camera, looking tired and wearing a jacket and open-necked shirt. On Saturday, Mr Meadows told reporters outside the hospital: "We're still not on a clear path yet to a full recovery." Mr Trump's chief doctor had also expressed cautious optimism, but added that the president was "not yet out of the woods". Anyone who says tofu is bland or boring hasnt eaten mapo tofu, the intoxicatingly spicy, fragrant dish from the Sichuan Province of China. Unlike the gentle Vietnamese tofu dishes I grew up with in Southern California, mapo, as some casually refer to it, first captured my attention as a teenager in the early 1980s, when my dad and his buddy whom we always reverently called Mr. Lee let me tag along for lunch at a Chinese restaurant. As the adults talked, I ate as much of the tender tofu cubes and piquant meat sauce as I could without seeming piggish. More than smitten, I became fascinated with the slithery brow-wiper, going on to research it in library books as a youth, traveling to Chengdu (the capital of Sichuan Province and the dishs birthplace) to understand its origins, and later experimenting with it in my own kitchen. Mapo tofu is sometimes translated as pockmarked old womans bean curd. (In Chinese, ma refers to pockmarks, and po can refer to an older woman.) The name is an inelegant nod to the smallpox-scarred skin of Mrs. Chen, who is said to have invented the dish in the late 1800s at her familys restaurant in northern Chengdu. There's been no talk from the Government at all about opening to tourists. The Airline/resort owners like FLC regularly tout the idea of allowing in 'package' tourists. Fly in together, stay together, fly out together as being a low risk sensible first step. It does make some sense as a first step, but there's no sign of that happening any time soon. They recently restarted once weekly regional flights for /some/ business people And returning nationals. Not tourists. They started discussing restarting those flights back in June, 'starting in July', then 'end of July', then 'August'. 1st flight actually landed on 25th September. In the absence of a widely available and effective vaccine, I can't see it taking any less to negotiate how to allow tourists in. Especially as tourists wouldn't want to be quarantined on arrival. (The resort owners propose they just stay within their resort.) But Tet is problematical. Millions on the move, jammed into buses, trains, planes. I can't see them taking any risk before then. Even one case in the community could be reseeded all over the country. So, my opinion? In the absence of a workable vaccine: Nothing before Tet. Possibly package tourists confined to resorts will be the first step after that. Independent travellers: not at all without a vaccine. Vietnam is losing a lot through the absence of foreign tourists. Local tourism has taken up some of the slack. Plenty of tourist businesses are hurting. Some are adapting. But Vietnam is still on course for about 3% growth in GDP this year. Their Covid-19 strategy has worked pretty well so far. They don't *need* tourists so much that they'll take any risks. Plan all you like, but I wouldn't be paying anyone for anything yet, even if it is refundable. Plenty of folks waiting months for refunds for cancelled flights etc. PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- More than one dozen survivors who were sexually assaulted as minors sued the Devereux Foundation and several of its affiliated corporations as they begin a journey to justice, attorneys for the group of 12 women and one man announced after the complaint was filed today in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. The lawyers, from Saltz Mongeluzzi & Bendesky, PC, and Helm Law Group, said the lawsuit (Jane Doe C.B. vs. Devereux Foundation, Inc., et al. Case No. 201000090 replaces earlier filing number) is believed to be the largest single survivor-group complaint filed against the Pennsylvania-based provider of a wide range of services to society's most vulnerable citizens. Attorneys Robert J. Mongeluzzi, Andrew R. Duffy, Kristen Gibbons Feden, Daniel Ceisler (of SMB), and James D. Helm (Helm Law Group), said following the filing, which includes negligence, sexual assault, and child abuse claims - and does not name the plaintiffs to protect their privacy - that their abuse, severe and permanent injuries, are irrefutable and will be detailed at trial. The Pennsylvania-based firms jointly represent the plaintiffs, 12 of whom reside in Pennsylvania; the other is a Delaware resident. "These courageous plaintiffs put their trust, faith and confidence in Devereux and its employees to care for them, to help them rehabilitate, and instead they were horrifically brutalized sexually, physically and emotionally. They are taking positive action to hold those who utterly failed to protect and care for them accountable and to prevent other vulnerable, innocent individuals from being victimized," stated Robert J. Mongeluzzi, of SMB. The ten-count complaint, seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, names as defendants the Philadelphia Main Line-based Devereux Foundation, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, and 17 other affiliated businesses, along with one individual defendant, Everol David Brackett. He is a former Devereux residential group home supervisor, imprisoned after his conviction in Chester County for sexual assault of a Devereux facility resident. (It was incorrectly stated in an earlier version that his conviction was related to assaulting a plaintiff in this lawsuit. He has not been charged as of this date for his alleged sexual abuse of plaintiff Jane Doe L. T.). Andrew R. Duffy, of SMB, said, "As asserted in the complaint, every one of these shocking, life-altering assaults would never have occurred if the defendants had made the safety of the children in their care their absolute highest priority. We intend to determine once and for all why this multi-state conglomerate with nearly $500 million in in annual revenue failed to properly monitor its employees to ensure that they did not often repeatedly and without consequences - molest or sexually abuse minors. One incident is intolerable, but what we see over decades is a pattern of systemic abuse and it must finally end." Attorney Feden, who heads SMB's sexual assault practice and was among the lead prosecutors who convicted Bill Cosby at his retrial in Montgomery County, said, "Ghastly crimes against children one was eight-years-young were committed on Devereux properties, by its employees, who in some instances injected their victims with sedatives before violating them. These children and their families, many from communities of color, were first betrayed and then abused. Meanwhile, Devereux pocketed its compensation from the referring agency or government despite knowing that they were not placing these children in caring and enriching environments." Attorney Helm said, "Our extensive pre-filing investigation concluded that The Inquirer's August expose HOPE.HELP.HARM. on Devereux abuses was consistent with our fact-finding in portraying what amounted to a "predatory hunting ground" for pedophiles. Instead of admitting their failures and taking swift and meaningful corrective measures, the defendants vilified the newspaper that exposed their wrongdoing rather than focusing solely on the heinous crimes against children committed by their employees. We believe the only way to abolish the sexual assault including rape culture at Devereux is by having a jury hold Devereux accountable for these unspeakable violations." NOTE: Members of the legal team will be available to discuss the complaint filing. There will be no interviews with anyone else associated in any way with the plaintiffs. Numerous resources are available to assist sexual assault survivors. These include the National Sexual Assault Hotline operated by RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network. To speak confidentially to a trained staff member from a local sexual assault service provider call 800.656.HOPE or visit https://hotline.rainn.org/online SOURCE Saltz Mongeluzzi & Bendesky, PC The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday rejected an appeal from Kim Davis, the former Kentucky county clerk who gained national attention five years ago when she cited her religious beliefs in refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Although the court was apparently unanimous in refusing to hear her appeal, two of the conservative justices said the 2015 ruling making same-sex marriage the law of the land amounted to a "cavalier treatment of religion." Davis "may have been one of the first victims" of the decision, "but she will not be the last," wrote Clarence Thomas for himself and Samuel Alito. After the marriage ruling, gay couples sued Davis for refusing to issue them marriage licenses, and she was briefly jailed for contempt when she continued to refuse after a court ordered her to grant them. Kentucky later changed state law so that marriage licenses were no longer issued in the name of the county clerk. In defending herself in court, Davis argued that as a government employee, she was immune from lawsuits involving her official duties. The couples failed to claim any constitutional right to receive a marriage license from any particular official, she said. Her lawyers told the Supreme Court that the case was about "whether the law forces an all-or-nothing choice between same-sex marriage on the one hand and religious liberty on the other." But lawyers for the gay couples said the issue was much more narrow whether government officials have immunity when they act in a way that they know violates the law. "No reasonable officer would have assumed that state law allowed her to grant herself an exemption from her duty to issue marriage licenses," they argued. Thomas and Alito, who dissented from the court's 5-4 marriage ruling, said it "enables courts and governments to brand religious adherents who believe that marriage is between one man and one woman as bigots, making their religious liberty concerns that much easier to dismiss." Story continues The marriage ruling gave a privilege to a "novel constitutional right over the religious liberty interests protected by the First Amendment," they said. "The court has created a problem that only it can fix." Next month, the Supreme Court will hear a case from Philadelphia that presents the tension between religious liberty and anti-discrimination laws. A Catholic charity is challenging the city's decision barring it from participating in a program that places children in foster care because the charity said it will not place them with same-sex couples. The American Civil Liberties Union condemned the comments by Thomas and Alito. It is appalling that five years after the historic [gay marriage ruling], two justices still consider same-sex couples less worthy of marriage than other couples," said James Esseks, director of the groups LGBT and HIV Project. "When you do a job on behalf of the government as an employee or a contractor there is no license to discriminate or turn people away because they do not meet religious criteria. Our government could not function if everyone doing the government's business got to pick their own rules. Esseks said the same issue is at stake in the Philadelphia case: We will fight against any attempts to open the door to legalized discrimination against LGBTQ people. The University of North Georgia's (UNG) computer science bachelor's degree program has earned ABET accreditation. ABET is a nonprofit, nongovernmental agency that accredits programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering and engineering technology. About 4,144 programs at 812 colleges and universities in 32 countries have received ABET accreditation. "Achieving ABET accreditation for our computer science program at UNG is an important milestone," said Dr. Mary Gowan, dean of UNG's Mike Cottrell College of Business. "This accreditation demonstrates to external stakeholders that our computer science program in the Mike Cottrell College of Business meets the highest standards for the discipline and is among the best programs in the world." Dr. Ash Mady, head of UNG's Department of Computer Science and Information Systems, said it took two years to prepare for the accreditation. All faculty members played an important role in the collaboration. "This is a statement for our process, the quality we have and the program we've built. It's wonderful to show the community we are offering what we promise," Mady said. "This is a clear public indication of who we are. We are able to supply our region's businesses with future leaders who are equipped and prepared." Dr. Yong Wei, professor of computer science, said the ABET committee's in-person evaluation of the computer science program affirmed the quality UNG is providing. "They were very impressed by the preparation and standards of our computer science program," said Wei, who chaired UNG's ABET accreditation committee. He and Mady noted the accreditation is not a one-time accomplishment. In addition to renewal every five years, the recognition requires a continuous improvement plan, which features three elements: Course evaluations by students. A comprehensive field test as a measurement to gauge the education quality the program gives students. Formation of an industry board of employers and potential employers of students to provide feedback on the program's educational offerings. Wei is excited about the industry board and the way it can evaluate how UNG prepares students for the best jobs in the field. "We're going to use that feedback to improve our courses," Wei said. UNG's computer science program prepares graduates for innovative careers in software engineering, system administration, management, programming, and research. Students learn the skills to program in multiple languages, develop databases and infrastructure, and think critically. Wei said the connection with ABET will ensure UNG stays on the cutting edge with its elective offerings. Wei said the accreditation is also another motivator for UNG's faculty to continue their innovative research and include undergraduate students in those efforts. "That's extremely important," Wei said. "Hands-on research is the best way to solidify students' learning." Mady takes pride in having a program that already has great community support, the trust of business partners and visibility. "We still felt compelled to show our commitment in every way possible," Mady said. "It wasn't required, but as a UNG faculty professional who also graduated from UNG, we will expend every effort to reflect the best way possible the quality of our programs and our university." The Uttar Pradesh government ordered a probe on Monday into an alleged international conspiracy hatched by groups and individuals in foreign countries to defame the state government and foment caste violence in the backdrop of the murder and gang-rape of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras district. The state police filed 19 first information reports (FIR) in seven districts on Sunday in connection with allegations that some political groups and other organisations were trying to incite caste-related violence. Besides, chief minister Yogi Adityanath blamed Opposition parties and anti-national elements with foreign funding for trying to destabilise the state. Also read: Unwarranted comments - India rejects UN criticism of violence against women The main FIR, filed at the Chandpa police station in Hathras, invoked charges of sedition, promoting enmity, inciting caste-based violence and other sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) against unknown persons and groups. Additional chief secretary, home, Awanish Kumar Awasthi, said the state government has ordered a probe into the conspiracy to instigate the caste clashes by launching a website and that strict action will be taken against the culprits. The probe, conducted by the state home department, will focus on people and groups behind justiceforhathrasvictim.carrd.co that hosted information about date, time and location of protests that have swept India over the past week, as well as resources on how to avoid detention, mobilise demonstration and trending hashtags. Our preliminary probe indicates that along with local people, organisations and people based in some foreign countries launched the website to incite caste riots in UP on the lines of race-related clashes in the United States, said a senior state government official. Also read: CM Yogi Adityanath again accuses opposition of stoking caste violence The website was taken down but the police have archived materials from the platform, the official added. Earlier in the day, CM Adityanath told party workers that anti-national and anti-social elements were conspiring to trigger riots in Uttar Pradesh. Our opponents are conspiring against us by trying to lay a foundation for caste and communal riots through international funding. For the last one week, Opposition parties were keen to see riots. We need to move forward amidst all these conspiracies, he said. On Sunday, too, he had said those who do not like development wanted to incite ethnic and communal riots in the state. A senior police officer said on condition of anonymity that the website was created overnight and posted morphed photos, collected funds, targeted police and administrative officials and peddled hate speech. Misleading and objectionable information about the Hathras incident was also posted on the website to create caste tension, the officer said. Additional director general of police (ADG), law and order, Prashant Kumar, refused to elaborate on the allegations of international conspiracy but in a press conference earlier in the day, said efforts were on to vitiate the atmosphere through social media posts and posters. He also said some groups offered Rs 50 lakh to the victims family to speak in their favour. These groups used social media platforms to spread hatred, inciting people for caste-based conflict and unlawful gathering in times of the Covid-19 pandemic. The police has lodged several FIRs regarding the matter and it will be too early to reveal the names or more details without a proper investigation, he added. The officer did not present any evidence to support his claim. Police teams are checking the veracity of these messages. Action will be taken against those involved if anything comes up in our investigation, Kumar said. Six FIRs were lodged in Hathras district while others were filed in Bijnor, Bulandshahr, Lucknow, Prayagaraj and other places, he added. In the FIR lodged at Chandpa police station, unidentified groups were booked under 20 sections, including sedition (124A of Indian Penal Code) and for inciting caste-based violence. Besides sedition, the accused have been booked under Sections 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on ground of religion), 153 B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration), 465 (forgery), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating), 469 (forgery for purpose of harming reputation) along with other sections of the IPC and Information Technology Act. Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad, members of the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) were mentioned in three separate FIRs lodged in Hathras. In other districts like Lucknow, FIRs were lodged against people who posted messages or allegedly morphed images on social media platforms in connection with the Hathras incident. At least six people, including two in Lucknow, have been arrested in connection with these FIRs. In Hathras, the police filed three separate FIRs against the Bhim Army chief, RLD and SP workers for violating section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, barring the public assembly of four or more people, and provisions of the Epidemic Act during their visits on Sunday, officials said. On September 14, the victim was raped by four members of a dominant caste in Hathras district when she had gone to the fields to collect cattle fodder. She was partially paralysed in the attack. As her condition deteriorated, she was moved to Delhis Safdarjung hospital on September 28 and died in the early hours of September 29. At 2.30 am the next day, the police forcibly cremated the body without the familys consent in a field near the village. Since then, Opposition leaders have made a beeline to the village even as the police and the Hathras district administration have denied that she was raped, citing the forensic report. Five police officials have also been suspended in line with preliminary recommendations of a special investigation team (SIT). WASHINGTON : Scientists have identified 24 planets outside our solar system that they say may have conditions more suitable for life than the Earth. The study, published in the journal Astrobiology, details characteristics of potential "superhabitable" planets, that include those that are older, a little larger, slightly warmer and possibly wetter than Earth. The researchers from the Washington State University (WSU) in the US noted life could more easily thrive on planets that circle more slowly changing stars with longer lifespans than our Sun. The 24 top contenders for superhabitable planets are all more than 100 light years away, but the study could help focus future observation efforts, such as from NASA's James Web Space Telescope, they said. "With the next space telescopes coming up, we will get more information, so it is important to select some targets," said Dirk Schulze-Makuch, a professor at WSU and the Technical University in Berlin. "We have to focus on certain planets that have the most promising conditions for complex life. However, we have to be careful to not get stuck looking for a second Earth because there could be planets that might be more suitable for life than ours," Schulze-Makuch said. The researchers identified superhabitability criteria and searched among the 4,500 known exoplanets beyond our solar system for good candidates. Habitability does not mean these planets definitely have life, merely the conditions that would be conducive to life, they noted. The researchers selected planet-star systems with probable terrestrial planets orbiting within the host star's liquid water habitable zone from the Kepler Object of Interest Exoplanet Archive of transiting exoplanets. While the Sun is the centre of our solar system, it has a relatively short lifespan of less than 10 billion years, they said. Since it took nearly 4 billion years before any form of complex life appeared on Earth, many similar stars to our sun, called G stars, might run out of fuel before complex life can develop, according to the researchers. In addition to looking at systems with cooler G stars, they also looked at systems with K dwarf stars, which are somewhat cooler, less massive and less luminous than the Sun. The researchers said K stars have the advantage of long lifespans of 20 billion to 70 billion years. This would allow orbiting planets to be older as well as giving life more time to advance to the complexity currently found on Earth, they said. However, to be habitable, planets should not be so old that they have exhausted their geothermal heat and lack protective geomagnetic fields. Earth is around 4.5 billion years old, but the researchers argue that the sweet spot for life is a planet that is between 5 billion to 8 billion years old. Size and mass also matter. A planet that is 10% larger than the Earth should have more habitable land, the researchers said. One that is about 1.5 times Earth's mass would be expected to retain its interior heating through radioactive decay longer and would also have a stronger gravity to retain an atmosphere over a longer time period, they said. Water is key to life and the researchers argue that a little more of it would help, especially in the form of moisture, clouds and humidity. They noted that a slightly overall warmer temperature, a mean surface temperature of about 5 degrees Celsius greater than Earth, together with the additional moisture, would be also better for life. Among the 24 top planet candidates none of them meet all the criteria for superhabitable planets, but one has four of the critical characteristics, making it possibly much more comfortable for life than our home planet, the researchers added. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. JERUSALEM Fractured by internal political conflicts, confusing instructions and a lack of public trust in the government, Israel seems to be fraying further under a second national lockdown as the country struggles to cope with a surge in coronavirus cases and deaths that, relative to the size of the population, are among the worst in the world. With new daily cases of the coronavirus reaching up to 9,000 recently, here are some of the main factors contributing to the sense of chaos and loss of control. Curbs on anti-Netanyahu protests have backfired. For months, tens of thousands of demonstrators have been calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is standing trial on corruption charges and has been the focus of blame for many Israelis over the countrys handling of the pandemic. Mr. Netanyahu, a polarizing conservative, has portrayed the protesters as left-wing anarchists and has accused them, without evidence, of spreading the virus in mass gatherings outside his Jerusalem residence. After coronavirus regulations were tightened late last month, the government approved temporary restrictions on the demonstrations, confining protests to groups of up to 20 people wearing masks, standing two meters apart, and gathering no farther than a kilometer, or just over half a mile, from their homes. EU chemicals trade has shrunk this year, as the coronavirus pandemic has spread and lockdowns have restricted industrial activity and consumer goods demand. Trade is vitally important for the sector which has enjoyed a strong trade balance over the years. Chemicals has benefited hugely from globalisation and from broad-based tariff reductions. A key question is how the pandemic will impact trade over the longer term. Through lockdowns, local production for local supply was of vital importance. Producers worked hard to supply and work with customers as best they could, but long trade routes came under particular pressure. An underlying trend may be towards more local supply for local demand, although how that might be achieved in such an asset and investment heavy industry as chemicals remains to be seen. For years, large companies have sought to produce from bigger, more efficient hubs, strategically placed to serve increasingly globalised markets. EU producers, large and small, have captured growth not just from developed world markets such as the US, but from emerging economies. Emerging countries key Pre-pandemic, future demand growth was very much tied to the health of the still developing economies, with Africa seen as ripe for growth. While the EU continues tense trade negotiations with China, it is easy for focus to be drawn to the changing fortunes of, and the 27- country blocs relationships with, the worlds economic giants. Thinking of fast-developing markets, however, the EU finalised this year a landmark trade agreement with Vietnam which has been enthusiastically supported by the chemicals industry. The EU calls it the most comprehensive trade agreement the EU has concluded with a developing country. It gives Vietnam a 10-year period to eliminate duties on EU imports, although chemicals and pharmaceuticals are among the products that are already imported into Vietnam duty free. The EU says that there is a strong commitment on both sides to environmental and social rights a potential flash point in current talks between the bloc and China. A great job has been done in Vietnam containing the coronavirus outbreak, but the countrys economy has suffered terribly. World Bank data shows its economy still growing at 0.4% in the second quarter, a rate described by the Bank as exceptional during the pandemic. But this was still the worst performance over the past 35 years. Vulnerable to new waves of coronavirus outbreak, Vietnam could be caught in a coronavirus economic trap. What that trap might look like is as yet unclear, but it is likely to mean that demand for chemicals and the products made from them or the products that Vietnamese companies might make from them - will be impacted, possibly severely. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, in its Global Goals report published on Monday, looks at the health and welfare aspects of the coronavirus crisis. In terms of vaccine coverage, said to be a good proxy for how health systems are functioning, it suggests weve been set back about 25 years in 25 weeks. One of the most important questions the world now faces is how quickly low-income countries can catch back up to where they were and start making progress again, the report said. The hardest-hit will need support to make sure that what should be temporary reversals dont become permanent. The point is that the health crisis has created an extraordinarily deep economic crisis which the poorer countries in the world not simply the poorest will struggle with for many years. The projections are deeply concerning. Many millions have been pushed into extreme poverty by the crisis. Healthcare systems in the poorer economies are under extreme pressure. Most countries in sub-Saharan Africa, the lowest income part of the world, but one in which countries had been growing the fastest, cannot borrow the money needed to minimise the damage wrought by the pandemic. And, as the report says, there is a cap on how much money governments can spend on the safety net. IHME [the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington] estimates that extreme poverty has gone up by 7% in just a few months because of Covid-19, ending a 20-year streak of progress, the report added. Already in 2020, the pandemic has pushed almost 37m people below the $1.90 a day extreme poverty line. The poverty line for lower- middle-income countries is $3.20 a day, and 68m people have fallen below that one since last year. Re-evaluating chemicals The loss of progress and the slump in living standards dramatically shifts the ability to consume now, as well as the consumption landscape over time. It demands a re-evaluation of how chemical companies can best serve consumer demand, an assessment of just where that demand might be and for what. Clearly, chemicals demand growth is severely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Economic stimulus by the rich nations will limit some of the impact, but innovation will be needed to help developing economies recover from the pandemics impact. As far as EU chemicals trade is concerned, exports from the bloc were down $2.7 billion in the first five months of 2020, at 72.4 billion, with petrochemicals exports to the US up 2.3 billion (or 8.8%) but a significant drop in exports of speciality and consumer chemicals. EU chemical exports to China, of 6.3 billion, were 1.2% higher than in the similar period last year. All in all, data on April and May showed two consecutive declines in extra EU27 chemical exports, European chemicals industry group Cefic said. No clear sign of recovery is observed on the exports side. About the author Nigel Davis is Insights Editor at ICIS, a global market intelligence provider. Spodumene mined from hard rock in Western Australia is a feedstock material used in the production of lithium chemicals that go into batteries for electric vehicles (EVs). Most of the spodumene mined in Western Australia is shipped in China where it is converted in lithium chemicals. Prices weakness Oversupply of... So-called 'Long Covid' - which causes victims to suffer symptoms months after falling ill with the virus - could be a bigger public health problem than excess deaths, an academic has warned. It comes as a new report by King's College London revealed that around 10 per cent of coronavirus patients who took part in its survey showed Long Covid symptoms such as breathlessness and chronic fatigue for a month after infection. As many as two per cent were still experiencing such symptoms after three months. In a report from Tony Blair Institute of Global Change, Tim Spector, Professor of Genetic Epidemiology at King's College London, warns Long Covid could become a bigger public health issue than excess deaths due to Covid-19. The professor has pointed the statistics showing that Long Covid is most prevelant in women in their 40s, while deaths due to coronavirus are most among the elderly. The report calls on the government to raise awareness of the issue. The authors of the paper, titled Long Covid: Reviewing the Science and Assessing the Risk, say they believe awareness campaigns 'would help drive compliance with containment measures such as the use of masks'. So-called 'Long Covid' - which causes victims to suffer symptoms months after falling ill with the virus - could be a bigger public health problem than excess deaths, an academic has warned. Pictured: Library image of a woman wearing a mask In the report's foreword, Professor Spector said that in the first few months of the pandemic, little attention was paid to the infected population who were not sick enough to go to hospital, who made up 99 per cent of cases. He said it turned out that Covid-19 was not just a bad flu, but in many people it behaved more like an autoimmune disease, affecting multiple systems in the body. Prof Spector said the app launched in March by his group at King's College London and the health-science company ZOE to capture the wider range of symptoms people were experiencing received data from more than 4 million people. Tim Spector, Professor of Genetic Epidemiology at King's College London, says around 10 per cent of coronavirus patients who took part in a college survey showed Long Covid symptoms Researchers learned that 'a great many people didn't get better after two weeks as expected', Prof Spector said, adding: 'We kept following them and found out that a significant number still had problems after months. 'This is the other side of Covid: the long-haulers that could turn out to be a bigger public-health problem than excess deaths from Covid-19, which mainly affect the susceptible elderly.' The report said the King's College study indicates around 10 per cent of those taking part in the survey had symptoms of long Covid for a month, with between 1.5 per cent and 2 per cent still experiencing such symptoms after three months. The authors said these appear to be the most reliable statistics on which to base a rough estimate of the scale of long Covid in the population, adding that while there is no clear evidence about prevalence in asymptomatic cases, it is likely to be lower than these percentages. The report said long Covid seems rare in those under 18 and over 65, with higher prevalence among those of working age. The median age of those affected is 45 and it affects women more than men. 'As Professor Spector says, long Covid is likely a bigger issue than excess deaths as a result of Covid, but, crucially, the risk must be considered alongside the economic impact and other health impacts linked to Covid restrictions,' the paper concluded. Among their recommendations, the authors suggest further studies, awareness campaigns and mass testing to help with diagnosis. Daniel Sleat, co-author of the report, said: 'While long Covid poses a significant risk, it must be assessed alongside the wider impacts of Covid restrictions, both in economic and health terms, as governments determine their next steps on containment measures to avoid a full lockdown.' It has become apparent Manitobas provincial government is in need of a quick lesson in Canadian history. Specifically, it needs a refresher course on the ill-starred rural community of Walkerton, Ont., and the most serious case of water contamination ever seen in this country. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Editorial It has become apparent Manitobas provincial government is in need of a quick lesson in Canadian history. Specifically, it needs a refresher course on the ill-starred rural community of Walkerton, Ont., and the most serious case of water contamination ever seen in this country. Twenty years ago, in May 2000, heavy rains washed cow manure from a nearby pasture into Walkertons water system through a cracked well. The deadly E. coli bacteria slipped quietly through a maze of pipes and into the homes of about 5,000 residents, who drank the polluted water and bathed in bacteria-ridden tubs. Not long after, residents began experiencing bloody diarrhea and throbbing cramps that left many writhing in agony, overwhelming the towns lone hospital and leaving public-health authorities frantically searching for the culprit. In the end, seven people were dead and more than 2,300 fell ill. Today, some residents continue to suffer from long-term effects such as kidney damage. In a scathing inquiry report in 2002, Justice Dennis OConnor exposed an alarmingly unstable waterworks system made fragile by provincial cutbacks, inept and dishonest public-utilities managers and poor government oversight. Two waterworks employees were convicted of crimes one getting a year in jail, the other nine months of house arrest but what became clear about the systemic problems that were revealed was that the Walkerton disaster could have happened almost anywhere. In response to the worst E. coli outbreak in Canadian history, Ontario instituted some of the strictest laws in Canada to ensure the safety of its water supply. One of Judge OConnors key recommendations was this: "All water should be continuously monitored, with alarms and automatic shut-off systems if something goes wrong." Twenty years later, it seems unimaginable the hard-earned lessons of the Walkerton water tragedy could be forgotten, but an alarming report released last Monday by Manitobas auditor general makes that an open question. The Provincial Oversight of Drinking Water Safety: Independent Audit Report warned 20 per cent of known Manitoba water systems dont have an operating licence, and about half dont have a certified operator. The report revealed the number of licensed water systems in the province nearly doubled over the last five years, but the number of staff to monitor these systems decreased. Want to get a head start on your day? Get the days breaking stories, weather forecast, and more sent straight to your inbox every weekday morning. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. In addition to gaps in licensing, the audit found the province had weak strategic planning and performance measurement processes for overseeing drinking water safety in Manitoba. "Bottom line on the report is that the Department of Conservation and Climate needs to do more to ensure the safety of drinking water in Manitoba," said Tyson Shtykalo, Manitobas auditor general. It goes without saying that any discussion of safe drinking water must include pointed reference to the numerous Manitoba First Nations that remain under boil-water advisories despite Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus 2015 campaign pledge to eliminate them by 2021. The province welcomed the oversight report and said many of its 18 recommendations have already been implemented. That is welcome news, but it remains unconscionable that the sort of deterioration outlined in the report by Manitobas auditor general was allowed to develop in the first place. If anything was learned from the horrific and avoidable tragedy in Walkerton, it is that oversight can save lives. Two decades later, the events that devastated a quaint Ontario town are likely a distant memory for most Canadians. The warnings they inspired, however, regarding the need to safeguard our most precious resource are no less urgent today than they were in 2000. India and China will hold 7th round of Corps Commanders level talks on October 12 to discuss measures to disengage their armies at the line of actual control (LAC) in the Eastern Ladakh where both countries are engaged in 150 days military stand-off. The talks are being held when some high peaks at Ladakh have already seen some initial snowfall and winter has started to set in. Both sides are prepared to keep their armies at these high altitude mountains during winters when temperatures dip away below zero degrees and bone-chilling wind make survival extremely difficult. This will be last meeting under 14 Corps Commander Lt Gen Harinder Singh who is all set to take charge as Commandant of the Indian Military Academy (IMA) later this month after completing his one year tenure. Lt Gen PGK Menon who will be the new 14 Corps Commander will also take part in the meeting on October 12. The representative from the ministry of external affairs joint secretary (East Asia) Naveen Srivastava too is expected attend the Corps Commanders meeting. In the last Corps Commanders meeting both had sides agreed to stop sending more troops to the frontline, refrain from unilaterally changing the situation on the ground, and avoid taking any actions that may complicate the situation. Since the 6th Corps Commanders meeting some type of uneasy peace has been maintained at LAC in Ladakh which had witnessed a number of firing incidents for the first time in over four decades. However, there is also a concern that if Chinese troops dont move out soon or are not pushed out from places where they have transgressed they may permanently change the alignment of the LAC. During the last meeting India asked for complete disengagement from all points in Eastern Ladakh where China has transgressed into Indian Territory including Pangong Tso and Gogra Post-Hot Springs. Chinese army has also been preventing Indian patrols in the Depsang sector. India had made it clear that since it was China which had first transgressed, it will have to make the first move towards disengagement. India wants restoration of status quo ante of April 2020 at Eastern Ladakh. Chinese army wants India to vacate the strategic heights it occupied on the Kailash range which overlook entry points of the Spanggur gap in the Chushul sector during the pre-emptive action on August 29-31. Australia's response to future pandemics would be co-ordinated by a new specialised government organisation under a plan announced by Labor on Monday. The Centre for Disease Control described by Labor's treasury spokesman Jim Chalmers would run drills on future threats, manage a stockpile of equipment and liaise with manufacturers and state governments on pandemic policy. Labor's treasury spokesman Jim Chalmers believes Australia needs a new agency to handle future pandemics. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer Dr Chalmers said Australia was the only nation in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation, a group of international peer states, that did not have such an organisation and vowed Labor would create one if elected. "This time around we didn't have enough equipment, we were over-reliant on global supply chains, we hadn't run a drill for something like 12 years and so we need to learn from that," Dr Chalmers said on the ABC's Q+A program on Monday night. BINYAMINA, Israel, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- OncoHost, a global leader in host response profiling for improved personalized cancer therapy, announced today that Professor Yuval Shaked, co-founder and Chief Scientific Advisor at OncoHost, and Professor of Cell Biology and Cancer Science at the Technion Israel Institute of Technology, will deliver a presentation titled A Proteomics-Based Platform for Predicting Response to Immunotherapy and Personalizing Treatment Plans at the MAP 2020 Virtual Congress - ESMO this Friday, October 9th at 17:20 PM CEST. The presentation will show how through the analysis of host response profiles (i.e. the patient's reaction), oncologists may be able to harness this information to better predict clinical outcomes and suggest the ideal combination treatment with immunotherapy. "Despite major clinical success, immunotherapy treatments have demonstrated efficacy in only a small proportion of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)," said Prof. Yuval Shaked. "OncoHost's studies have indicated that individual host response to anti-cancer treatment can generate pro-tumorigenic activities and support tumor re-growth and spread. It is therefore vital to analyze and earlier predict host response to treatment in order to improve outcomes and reduce unnecessary side effects experienced by so many patients." Using machine learning (ML)-based analysis and algorithms to identify highly predictive cohort-based proteomic signatures in patients, personalized response prediction can be used to improve precision medicine in oncology. Personalized treatment plans can then be created through information based on cohort-based statistical analysis, personalized adaption and finally, translation to clinically relevant targets. Prof. Shaked's presentation will include a real-life case study on whom a Host Response profile analysis was performed, and will be followed by a live Q&A. MAP is the leading congress in precision medicine in oncology in Europe, established by key opinion leaders in the field. The name of the Congress was recently changed into Molecular Analysis for Precision Oncology to better reflect its aims of focusing on science, translational research, education and collaboration. This year's event will be held virtually on October 9-10. About OncoHost OncoHost combines life-science research and advanced machine learning technology to develop personalized strategies to maximize the success of cancer therapy. Utilizing proprietary proteomic analysis, the company aims to understand patients' unique response to therapy and overcome one of the major obstacles in clinical oncology today resistance to therapy. OncoHost's Host Response Profiling platform (PROphet) analyzes proteomic changes in blood samples to monitor the dynamics of biological processes induced by the patient (i.e., the host) in response to a given cancer therapy. This proteomic profile is highly predictive of individual patient outcome, thus enabling personalized treatment planning. PROphet also identifies potential drug targets, advancing the development of novel therapeutic strategies as well as rationally based combination therapies. For more information, visit http://www.oncohost.com Follow OncoHost on LinkedIn OncoHost Media Contact: Ellie Hanson Finn Partners [email protected] +1 929-222-8006 SOURCE OncoHost Related Links https://oncohost.com/ SALT LAKE CITY, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Intermountain Healthcare's historic plan to build the nation's model health system for children has received more than $100 million in gifts from community leaders so far, accelerating efforts to expand the clinical expertise of Intermountain Primary Children's Hospital to address the critical needs of kids throughout the Intermountain West. Sarah and Nellie Mainor with Gail Miller at Intermountain Primary Children's Hospital "We are entering a new era in pediatric health that will shape the next century of care for children served by Intermountain and Primary Children's Hospital. These generous gifts from the community are helping us embrace this challenge, forge ahead, and achieve our vision to build the nation's model health system for children without delay," said Katy Welkie, RN, MBA, CEO of Primary Children's Hospital and vice president of Intermountain Children's Health. In January, Intermountain Healthcare announced a $500 million promise half of which would come from philanthropy to create a national model for children's health. The promise comes at a critical time of urgent need: the number of children served by Intermountain Healthcare is growing, and through a variety of factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, their health needs continue to change and become more complex. The new model system for children's health will address these unique challenges, and position Utah as the home for the nation's healthiest kids. This vision has inspired community leaders to commit more than $100 million to Intermountain Foundation, including a $50 million gift from Utah businesswoman, civic leader, and philanthropist Gail Miller and the Miller family, which was announced in January. "We are grateful to these community leaders who took immediate action to fuel Intermountain Healthcare's vision and by doing so, ignited an active groundswell of support," said David Flood, Intermountain Healthcare senior vice president and chief development officer. "Together, we feel the urgency to help children in our communities who are facing great challenges right now. Children have not been spared from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it has become even more important to address their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs in new and innovative ways." Additional philanthropic efforts to support the model system will be led by three civic and community business leaders: Miller, owner and board chair of Larry H. Miller Group of Companies and chair of the Intermountain Healthcare Board of Trustees; business leader Steve Lund, co-founder and executive board chair of Nu Skin Enterprises; and business and civic leader Crystal Maggelet, chair and CEO of FJ Management Inc. "We are fortunate and grateful for this dream team of campaign chairs, who are supported by a growing cabinet of Utah's most prominent business leaders and philanthropists," said Marc Harrison, MD, president and CEO of Intermountain Healthcare, who is also a pediatric critical care physician. "Their leadership and example of generosity is inspiring, and will help Intermountain leap forward even further in achieving the best care for children anywhere." The new model health system for children will feature a blend of program, research and capital expansion, and bring together specialized pediatric caregivers from multiple Intermountain facilities and Primary Children's pediatric partners at University of Utah Health, ultimately serving children in a 400,000 square mile area encompassing Utah, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Nevada, and Alaska. The model contains three areas of focus: 1. Strengthen Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City with: Fetal surgery to repair birth defects in utero Groundbreaking genetic research to provide customized treatments for each child An expanded, modernized Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) An expanded cancer treatment center to provide children with revolutionary treatments in an ideal healing environment. 2. Address children's emerging health needs by: Enhancing services for young people suffering from depression, traumatic experiences, and other mental health conditions Attending to environmental factors that negatively affect children's lifelong health (racism, poverty, housing and food instability) while promoting stable, nurturing relationships, Ensuring kids with severe chronic health conditions have an opportunity to thrive as they become adults. 3. Extend care excellence across the Intermountain West by: Building a fully integrated Pediatric Care Network that enhances Outreach clinics and TeleHealth, establishes an Emergency and Trauma Network, and standardizes best practices and protocols across the Intermountain Healthcare system Bringing the power of Primary Children's Hospital to Utah County with a second Primary Children's Hospital campus in Lehi, Utah . with a second Primary Children's Hospital campus in . These ambitious goals will require an estimated $500 million investment, shared equally by Intermountain Healthcare and the generous philanthropic support from the communities that Intermountain serves. The investment represents the largest commitment to the care and health of children throughout the Intermountain West since Primary Children's was envisioned in the early 1900s. Images and b roll can be downloaded at this link: https://securedrop.intermountain.net/securedrop/public.php?service=files&t=d2bc554e25f7a9844af212fb81e8a7e0 Primary Children's Hospital is part of Intermountain Healthcare, a not-for-profit system of 24 hospitals, 215 clinics, a Medical Group with 2,500 employed physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a health insurance company called SelectHealth, and other health services in Idaho, Utah, and Nevada. For more than 95 years, Primary's have served over 1 million children living in a 400,000 square-mile service area including Utah, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Wyoming, and Alaska. Intermountain is widely recognized as a leader in transforming healthcare by using evidence-based best practices to consistently deliver high-quality outcomes and sustainable costs. SOURCE Intermountain Healthcare Related Links intermountainhealthcare.org At the outset of COVID-19, SmartLinx made it a priority to support our customers...We made it our mission to do everything we could from providing PPE to developing the tools they need to meet changing CDC guidelines and federal regulations." - SmartLinx CEO Marina Aslanyan Marina Aslanyan, CEO of SmartLinx Solutions a leading provider of workforce management solutions has been named the winner of a Stevie Award in the 17th annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business. Dedicated to helping post-acute care and senior living organizations successfully navigate todays workforce challenges, SmartLinx is on the front lines of the COVID-19 crisis. Marina has been honored in the Female Executive of the Year Business Services category, for her compassionate and pragmatic approach to leadership, supporting SmartLinx customers and employees alike as the world adapted to the new normal caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout her role as CEO, Marina has spearheaded SmartLinxs mission to transform the long-term care industry by empowering providers and their teams with the technology they need to deliver exceptional care. Marina has successfully led SmartLinxs growth and advanced several company milestones despite pandemic-related challenges. Her recent accomplishments range from major product announcements that reduce the spread of infection in skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, to the creation of a comprehensive customer support plan. SmartLinx has experienced 6x revenue growth under Marina's leadership. Today, the company represents more than one in five of all assisted living facilities and is the only workforce management platform focused solely on long-term care. At the outset of COVID-19, SmartLinx made it a priority to support our customers many of which care for senior residents who are particularly vulnerable to contagious diseases, like COVID-19. We made it our mission to do everything we could from providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to developing the tools they need to meet changing CDC guidelines and federal regulations, said SmartLinx CEO Marina Aslanyan. Were proud to continue supporting and partnering with our clients during these difficult times and beyond. The Stevie Awards for Women in Business honor women executives, entrepreneurs, employees, and the companies they run worldwide. The Stevie Awards have been hailed as the worlds premier business awards. More than 1,500 entries were submitted this year for consideration in more than 100 categories, including Executive of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, Company of the Year, Startup of the Year, Women Helping Women, and Women Run Workplace of the Year. SmartLinx won in the Female Executive of the Year category for Business Services. Details about the Stevie Awards for Women in Business and the list of Gold, Silver, and Bronze winners in all categories are available at http://www.StevieAwards.com/Women. Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award winners were determined by the average scores of more than 180 business professionals around the world, working on seven juries. Maggie Gallagher, president of the Stevie Awards, said, In a year like no other in our lifetimes, weve produced a cohort of amazing, Stevie-winning women, organizations, and achievements like no other. At all times our winners show themselves to be fearless and indomitable, but their leadership and example are especially valued this year. We congratulate all of our Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie winners. We look forward to celebrating them during our December 9 virtual ceremony, and to hearing from some of them during our Women|Future Conference on November 12-13. About SmartLinx Founded in 2000, SmartLinx cares for those who care. Used in thousands of leading organizations, SmartLinxs workforce management solution suite helps skilled nursing and senior care providers manage people and processes by harnessing the power of real-time data. Its solutions suite includes talent acquisition and onboarding, human resources, benefits and payroll, time & attendance, scheduling, compliance, and business analytics. The company is headquartered in Iselin, New Jersey. For more information, please visit http://www.smartlinxsolutions.com. or call 877-501-1310. About the Stevie Awards Stevie Awards are conferred in eight programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards The American Business Awards, The International Business Awards, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com. On September 22, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced to the world that China, responsible for 28 percent of the worlds greenhouse gas emissions, would phase out any conventional use of coal, oil, and gas to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality, i.e., zero additional carbon emissions into the atmosphere, by 2060. Under the Paris climate deal reached in 2015, China had pledged that its emissions would peak around 2030, Xi addressing the United Nations General Assembly on September 22, said that he was moving up that timetable to before 2030. If China is able to deliver on the climate neutrality pledge by mid-century, it will lower global warming projections by around 0.2 to 0.3 degrees Celsius, the single-biggest reduction measured since countries signed the Paris Agreement in 2015, according to an analysis by the Climate Action Tracker, which measures government commitments on climate against the Paris Agreement goals. Carbon neutrality refers to the elimination of carbon dioxide emissions by stopping emissions altogether or by balancing carbon dioxide emissions with some form of carbon removal. It is important to note that carbon neutrality differs from climate neutrality because it does not consider other greenhouse gases. More than 60 other countries have pledged carbon neutrality by 2050, a consensus deadline that scientists believe must be met to have a reasonable chance of averting the worst climate catastrophe. Those countries are small compared to China. Chinas total emissions are about as much as those produced by the United States, European Union, and India combined. Sceptics have been quick to point out that Xis announcement means China will have to stop burning coal, a tall order in a country that is home to half of the worlds coal power capacity and another 210GW to be added soon. Others have expressed concerns about China exporting emissions, as it is financing a quarter of coal plants under development in other countries through its Belt and Road Initiative, with 102GW capacity. Then there is the timing of the announcement, before the US presidential elections, which could mean China is trying to get out in front of any US pressure in case Biden is sworn in, or maybe even yielding to bilateral pressure from European Union that has been threatening carbon taxes on imports from China if Beijing did not raise its ambition. Yet there are reasons to believe that Beijing may have acted unconditionally, given that China outperformed its 2020 carbon emission target, reaching the goal three years ahead of schedule. There are strong indications that China could meet its 2030 carbon intensity peaking targets by 2025. China rarely makes announcements unless it is confident that it will move towards achieving them, the new pledge indicates that the government could be moving towards a commitment to phasing out the fossil fuel. said Bill Hare, CEO of Climate Analytics. According to Harjeet Singh, global climate lead at Action Aid, The fact is that even as it appears to cling to coal, China has also emerged as a leader in clean energy technologies, including solar panels and wind turbines. It is the worlds largest manufacturer of electric cars and buses... It is important to note that Chinas efforts to cut emissions so far have been more about pragmatism than climate leadership. Pollution and other environmental threats are increasingly seen as threats to the communist partys standing. Humankind can no longer afford to ignore the repeated warnings of nature, Xi told the General Assembly. That was evident in this summers devastating floods on the Yangtze River and its tributaries in central China. Xi has already pledged to increase government support for new technologies while fighting pollution, protecting natural resources, and expanding the countrys national park networks. However, if Xi is serious, then the ambitious target of climate neutrality must find space in the Chinese governments soon-to-be released 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), with detailing of the structural changes in energy production and consumption and long-term decarbonisation road maps that are economically and technically viable. Whether Xi will save the world from runaway climate change or not remains to be seen, but the pressure is now on India, Chinas partner-in-chief at the UNFCCC in resisting calls from the West for firm commitments to decarbonisation, to make a similarly bold climate announcement. We're sorry, but we're unable to locate the page you requested. The page may have been removed, renamed, or deleted. You can try searching for the topic using the search button in the right hand corner above. Though the name Virginia Hall might not be familiar to most, during World War II, the American from Baltimore, who was living in Europe before war broke out, ended up becoming one of the most powerful and revered spies working for the Allied forces. The new IFC film A Call to Spy (out now on Demand) stars Sarah Megan Thomas as Hall (who also wrote and produced the film), Stana Katic as fellow spy Vera Atkins, and Radhika Apte as a spy and wireless operator Noor Inayat Khan. In real life, the three women were part of Winston Churchill's Special Operations Executive, which helped undermine the Nazi regime in France. Hall's story is particularly fascinating. Though she was born into a rich family in Baltimore and studied at Radcliffe, Columbia, and George Washington University, she craved more adventure, eventually traveling to Europe to finish her schooling, and later trying to get a job as a diplomat in France. However, her wooden legwhich she gained after shooting herself in the foot while hunting birdsprohibited her from joining the U.S. Department of State. courtesy of Catlings Virginia Hall In 1941, a chance meeting with a British intelligence officer led to a role with the Special Operations Executive or the SOE, where women were being hired as spies by Churchill. She was soon stationed in Paris where she posed as a reporter for the New York Post. She quickly became adept at organizing resistance operations, where she supplied agents with money and weapons in Lyons, France. Hall eventually befriended a brothel owner who conscripted prostitutes working there to get information from German soldiers and pass it on to her and her team. RELATED: Queen Elizabeth Recalls Going Incognito 75 Years Ago Today to Mark End of WWII A master of disguise, Hall was eventually declared "the most dangerous spy of all time" by the Axis Powers, and the Gestapo had her on its most-wanted list. It's rumored that notorious Nazi Gestapo chief Klaus Barbie, known as "The Butcher of Lyon" for his torture of Jews and French resistance fighters, once said of Hall, "I would give anything to get my hands on that limping Canadian bitch." Story continues courtesy of Catlings A portrait of Virginia Hall Undeterred, Hall continued working in France to support the Allied Powers' efforts against the Nazis via the resistance groups until the collapse of the regime. After the war, she joined the CIA, becoming one of the first women hired by the intelligence agency where she supported undercover activities to prevent the spread of communism. At the age of 60, Hall retired to a farm in Maryland, where she lived until her death in 1982. In 2019, a book about her life, A Woman of No Importance: The Untold Story of WWIIs Most Dangerous Spy, Virginia Hall, by Sonia Purnell, was released. A Call to Spy is the first film to focus solely on Hall's workand highlight the true importance of women's role in wartime spying. The film is now available on Video on Demand. Navy responds to medical evacuation request at Isla Mujeres Isla Mujeres, Q.R. The Secretary of the Navy of Mexico reports on Sunday, personnel carried out the medical evacuation of a crew member of the sailboat in the Makax Lagoon of Isla Mujeres. This action was carried out after receiving an emergency call at the Naval Search, Rescue and Maritime Surveillance Station requesting the medical evacuation of a person from vessel Kiwi, who suffered an injury to his right hand while carrying out onboard maneuvers. A vessel from the Naval Search, Rescue and Maritime Surveillance Station of Isla Mujeres arrived at Kiwi and proceeded with the medical evacuation of a 56-year-old male from Poland. The injured man was transferred to the marina dock in Isla Mujeres where he was received by Naval Health personnel to be taken to a local hospital in order to receive the corresponding medical attention. The same report claimed that Volkswagen is also considering selling Lamborghini and Ducati. Now, Volkswagen confirmed that at least three brands are under review and a decision about their future will be taken in a management board meeting in November. The group is currently discussing the future of Bugatti, Lamborghini, and Ducati. Earlier this month we heard rumors that the Volkswagen Group wants to transfer the Bugatti brand to Croatian company Rimac Automibili. The transaction would turn Bugatti into an EV company, but it would also give Porsche access to Rimacs high-performance electric drivetrain. Is there a future for small brands within the Volkswagen Group? The Volkswagen Group, which owns car companies like Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Seat, Skoda, Bentley, Lamborghini, Bugatti, and Audi, is currently looking at whether is has the resources to integrate its smaller brands into its electrified future. The giant is shifting to mass-producing electric cars under mainstream brands like Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, Audi, and Porsche, but Bugatti, Lamborghini, and Bentley are barely hitting the hybrid realm. The issue here is that developing electric platforms for smaller brands might be too expensive at a time when the Volkswagen Group is already spending billions of dollars to electrify its mainstream brands. On top of that, it also needs to free up cash to develop autonomous and connected vehicle technology, as well as new forms of mobility services in order to keep up with the competition. While Bentley could get away with sharing underpinnings with Porsche models, Bugatti and Lamborghini need bespoke platforms for electric models, which is a problem given that these two brands are barely moving 4,500 units per year. We are constantly looking at our brand portfolio, this is particularly true during the phase of fundamental change in our industry. In view of the market disruption, we must focus and ask ourselves what the transformation means for the individual parts of the group, Volkswagen chief executive Herbert Diess told Reuters. Brands must be measured against new requirements. By electrification, by reach, by digitalisation and connectivity of the vehicle. There is a new room for maneuver and every brand must find its new place, he added. Although Diess declined to comment on the future of Lamborghini and Bugatti under the Volkswagen umbrella, its safe to say that the group no longer wants to financially support these brands as long as they produce gas-guzzling cars. While Bugatti may indeed move under Rimac ownership, Lamborghinis fate remains unknown. Given that there are no signs of the Huracan and the Aventador being replaced by gas-powered successors, the company may switch to hybrid and all-electric vehicles soon. But it remains to be seen whether it will happen under Volkswagen Group ownership. Ducati is also under review. The Italian motorcycle company sold just over 53,000 units in 2019 and is currently producing eight different nameplates. The current engine lineup includes four units available in a total of nine specifications. The Volkswagen Group purchased Ducati through Lamborghini back in 2012. The problem with electrifying Bugatti and Lamborghini Besides needing to spend large sums of money to create bespoke electric drivetrains for Bugatti and Lamborghini, Volkswagen may also have problems selling them. While technology has evolved to the point where big carmakers can develop electric supercars with as much as 2,000 horsepower, they might not be as appealing as their noisy, high-octane predecessors. Gas-guzzling supercars are still in high demand, as Ferrari, McLaren, and even Lamborghini are setting new sales records each year, but this will change once the big V-8, V-12, and W-16 engines are gone. Granted, future Lamborghinis may be altered to adopt high-performance electric drivetrains from Porsche, but things would be a lot more complicated with Bugatti. The brand is still struggling to make a profit with the Chiron, so a bespoke platform would either make them much more expensive than they already are or force Volkswagen to sell them at a loss. Which isnt an option right now. One thing is certain though, Bugatti and Lamborghini wont be shut down. They will continue making cars and potentially move into the electric market, but it remains to be seen under which ownership. Source: Reuters - Some 22 people were confirmed to have coronavirus from a sample size of 595 tested in the last 24 hours bringing to 39,449 the number of confirmed positive cases in the country since March 13 - All the new cases were Kenyans except one and included 15 males and seven females; the youngest being an 18-year-old while the eldest is 65 - Nairobi continues to lead the top 10 counties with the number of reported confirmed positive cases out of the 47 Counties, with 20,971 cases, followed by Mombasa with 2,969 cases - The US donated 200 ventilators and has urged the Ministry of Health to put them into use immediately and transparently PAY ATTENTION: Click 'See First' under 'Follow' Tab to see Tuko.co.ke news on your FB Feed The Ministry of Health has announced 22 new cases of COVID-19 recorded in the country over the past 24 hours. Health Chief Administrative Secretary Rashid Aman. Photo: MoH. Source: UGC Health CAS Rashid Aman said the new patients were drawn from 595 samples that were tested between Sunday and Monday, October 5. They raised Kenya's count of the news disease to 39,449. The new cases are the lowest the ministry has recorded within one day in over four months. The ministry also examined the least number of samples within 24 hours in over four months. The 22 cases were distributed in Nairobi (18), Meru (two) while Kiambu and Nakuru registered a single case each. Some 376 recoveries, Aman said, had been recorded over the past 24 hours, pushing the tally of recoveries to 27,035 from 26,659 recorded on Sunday, October 4. Out of the recoveries, 360 were from the Home-Based Care Program while 16 were from various hospitals. The death toll increased to 735 following the demise of four patients. Observe containment measures In his speech, CAS Aman cautioned Kenyans against throwing caution to the wind especially after President Uhuru Kenyatta eased containment measures on Monday, September 28. According to Aman, a section of Kenyans has abandoned handwashing, social distancing and wearing of masks believing that the disease was no longer a threat. "We have seen this behaviour increase and again, we want to appeal to Kenyans that if we continue with the behaviours then we are certainly going to see a second spike in our trajectory something that we do not wish to see because it will mean that there will be more restrictions that will be placed on us. In the meantime, we continue to make a passionate appeal to our people to follow the containment measures particularly to avoid all forms of gatherings be it social or political," urged Aman. US donates 200 ventilators During the event, Aman received a donation of 200 ventilators from the US government which will be used in the treatment of critically ill COVID-19 patients. US Ambassador to Kenya Kyle McCarter urged the Ministry of Health to put the medical equipment in good use adding that Washington DC will keenly monitor their use. "The United States goal is for the ventilators to be put in use immediately and effectively to assist the patients battling COVID-19. Work is still ongoing to select health facilities where the ventilators will be delivered. USAID will be working closely with the county governments to ensure accountability in the use of the ventilators," McCarter. Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly. My mother abandoned me with two holes in my heart | Tuko TV. Help us change more lives, join TUKO.co.kes Patreon programme. Source: TUKO.co.ke Young Australians could lose $5,000 to their starting salaries next year, sparking warnings they may become a 'lost generation' who may never recover. School leavers and university graduates are warned they could be the victims of scarring after the global health crisis led to Australia's first recession in almost 30 years. Scarring, which in economics refers to the medium to long term damage following a financial downfall, is more likely to impact young people who are attempting to get their foot in the door. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg told news.com.au: 'For young people, it's the Treasury's estimate that young people will be earning on average about eight per cent less in their first year in the job market as a result of COVID. 'And even in five years' time they will be earning about 3.5 per cent less.' Young Australians starting their first job out of university could see $5,000 less in their salaries as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic (pictured young woman in Sydney working at the Royal Randwick Racecourse) The average starting salary for university graduates is around $65,000 according to Graduates Australia - meaning an eight per cent loss would equal to around $5,000. The tax cuts can give young workers $1,080 back, but this will still leave them with around $4,000 less than normal on their salaries. 'This is what we are in. So what we are really focused on is getting people back to work to avoid what economists call the scarring effect,' the treasurer said. Shadow Treasurer Jim Chalmers warned Tuesday's Budget needed to ensure young people didn't become a 'lost generation' due to the impacts of recession. 'This is an incredibly important budget. Its framed in the teeth of the deepest, most damaging recession weve seen in Australia for almost 100 years,' he said. 'We confront a full-blown jobs crisis in this country... At risk here is a lost generation of Australian workers sacrificed to the first recession in this country in three decades. 'The test for this budget is what it means for unemployment. If unemployment is too high for too long, then this budget and this Government would have failed its central task.' Unemployment - which is now up to 6.8 per cent - and people competing for jobs is another reason why wages would be much lower than in previous years. My Frydenberg noted that while young people and women were some of those suffering the most financially from the pandemic, these groups were 'recovering faster' and returning to work. Due to higher numbers working in retail and hospitality, women made up 54 per cent of the jobs that were lost. However, out of Australians who have already returned to work, women make up 60 per cent. Young people made up 38 per cent of those unemployed as a result of lockdowns, but 39 per cent of them have already got their jobs back. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg estimated young people going into their first full time jobs could see an eight per cent reduction on their salary compared to other years Meanwhile, income tax cuts originally earmarked for July 2022 are set to be backdated to July 2020. The stage-two cuts will benefit middle-to-high income earners, giving those earning $100,000 an extra $1,665 each year and those earning $120,000 an extra $2,565. They build on stage-one cuts already introduced which give those earning $50,000 to $80,000 an extra $1,080. Backdating the stage-two cuts, which raise the threshold for the 37 per cent tax bracket from $90,000 to $120,000, means they will kick in as soon as they are passed by parliament. Those who benefit will have to pay less tax each month and the government hopes this will help drive spending and boost the economy after it was hammered by coronavirus. Another stage of tax cuts, which helps high earners and is due to take effect in 2024, is likely to be brought forward. This is how much you will get back after stage two tax cuts compared with the 2017-18 financial year. Most of these changes are already in place after stage one tax cuts. The difference this time is that Aussies earning more than $100,000 will get $1,665 back and those on more than $120,000 will get $2,565 back. Under current tax rules those on $120,000 only get back $315 The third stage of the federal government's tax cuts was designed to give generous relief to those on six-figure salaries from July 2024. This could be accelerated in Tuesday's budget. This table shows how much you will get back after stage three compared with 2017-18 The third stage of tax cuts abolishes the 37 per cent tax bracket and creates a 30 per cent tax bracket for those earning $45,001 and $200,000. The slashing of tax brackets, from five to four for the first time since 1984, will see those at the top end on $200,000 receive a tax cut of $11,640 compared with the 2017-18 financial year. Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the tax cuts would give Australians more freedom with their money. 'What we want to do is make sure more Australians have more of the money that they earn,' he told reporters on Monday. 'It's their money and we want to be able to give them the opportunity and the choice to spend it. 'Yes, if they want to save it, that's a good thing too.' Mr Frydenberg will announce his budget in a speech to parliament at 7.30pm on Tuesday. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has described it as the 'most important budget since the Second World War.' On an annual basis the economy took a 6.3 per cent hit, the worst figure since the depths of the Great Depression when it shrank by about 10 per cent, and a greater contraction than after the Second World War in 1945 when growth tumbled by 5.1 per cent as troops returned home. Not only is the government dealing with a fragile economy, but also a rapidly growing mountain of public debt after spending billions of dollars on coronavirus policies. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 20:25:31|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close HANOI, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Vietnam reported a new case of COVID-19 infection on Monday, bringing its total confirmed cases to 1,097 with 35 deaths from the disease so far, according to its Ministry of Health. The latest case is a 57-year-old French woman who has recently entered Vietnam from Dubai and was quarantined upon arrival, according to the ministry. The ministry also announced that two more COVID-19 patients, who are experts from China's Taiwan region, have been given all-clear, raising the total cured cases in the country to 1,022 as of Monday. Meanwhile, nearly 16,400 people are being quarantined and monitored in the country, the ministry said. Vietnam has gone through 33 straight days without any COVID-19 cases in the community, according to the ministry. Enditem BENGALURU: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has till now recovered Rs 50 lakh from multiple premises it searched in a corruption case related to Karnataka Congress leader DK Shivakumar, officials said on Monday (October 5). The CBI is carrying out searches at 14 locations in Karnataka, Delhi and Maharashtra in the case that pertains to amassing of disproportionate assets, they said. The search operation may be expanded during the day, the officials said. The CBI raids were carried out at 14 locations, including nine in Karnataka, four in Delhi and one in Mumbai. The raids started at around 6 am on Monday, and as the news spread, scores of supporters started gathering in front of his house. The CBI registered a fresh case against the Congress leader based on a source information from another agency. The information relates to assets amassed during Shivakumar's tenure as a minister in Karnataka, they said. Following the registration of FIR, CBI teams started searches on Monday morning at 14 locations -- nine in Karnataka, four in Delhi and one in Mumbai. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed it "raid raj" and a "Machiavellian move" by the BJP government. "The insidious game of intimidation & machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding @DKShivakumar won't deter us. CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt. But, 'Raid Raj' is their only 'Machiavellian Move'!," Surjewala said on Twitter. "Let Modi & Yeddyurappa Govts & BJP's frontal organizations i.E CBI-ED-Income Tax know that Congress workers & leaders will not be cowed down nor bow down before such devious attempts.Our resolve to fight for people & expose BJP's maladministration only becomes stronger," he tweeted. Live TV Vermont News and Media LLC was founded in 2021 by Paul Belogour to acquire the Brattleboro Reformer, Bennington Banner, Manchester Journal, and UpCountry Magazine. Vermont News and Media is an independently owned and operated news organization that severs the greater Southern Vermont region and surrounding areas including New Hampshire, New York, and Massachusetts. Our company mission is to create hyper-local news about the communities we serve and attract both local and out-of-town readers. Vermont News and Media is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty in our region and showcasing all it has to offer through intellectual journalism. Frequent flyer points should be saved for when travel returns to normal instead of being spent on reward programs to get the best value for money. Australians are being tempted into spending their valuable points on gift cards and other material items, but experts say this diminishes the profit of your points. Redeeming your points for flights over material items can give buyers up to ten times the value per point. Steve Hui, the CEO of iFLYflat, believes hanging onto your points while travel is restricted is the way to go. Experts say hanging onto your frequent flyer points will give you the best value for money instead of spending your points on material items in reward programs during travel restrictions from COVID-19. Pictured: a woman watches over Noosa National Park in Queensland 'You might be tempted because you have heaps of points, but if you hold back you will be rewarded with flights in the future,' he told News Corp. Despite travel restrictions, Australians are still earning loads of frequent flyer points amid the online shopping boom of the pandemic. But a large quantity of points does not mean you should spend them, as redeeming frequent flyer points outside of airline travel reduces their worth. Mr Hui said when points are spent on gift cards they are only worth 0.5cents, while an economy flight is worth 1.2cents and business flights jump to as much as 5c per point. Redeeming points for flights over material items gives buyers up to ten times the value. Pictured: a woman wearing a face mask checks in for a flight at Sydney Airport in September Many Australians are stockpiling frequent flyer points amid the online shopping boom of COVID-19 Stockpiling points can be risky if airlines inflate airfare prices and alter reward programs into the future, but Mr Hui said the benefits will be paramount at the return of international travel. 'You know travel will resume and when it does you will be glad you have got the points to pay for it,' he said. Mr Hui's sentiment was backed by thechampagnemile.com.au founder Adele Eliseo. 'As an example, Qantas Frequent Flyer members can extract a value of 0.58c per point when redeeming for vouchers from David Jones and Myer,' she said. Islamabad: Pakistan's Anti-Corruption Court has convicted former President Asif Ali Zardari in the Park Lane and Thata water supply case. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) co-chairman Zardari was present in the court in Islamabad during the verdict. The court also convicted 19 other accused in the Park Lane case and 15 others in the Thata water supply case. The court last week convicted Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur in the mega-money laundering case. In the Park Lane case, Zardari and his son Bilawal Bhutto are accused of buying 2,460 acres of land in a posh area of Islamabad at very low prices. Along with this, there is a charge of giving the contract of the project to a contractor by following the rules in the Thata water supply case. The court has rejected Zardari's plea for acquittal in all three cases. Asif Ali Zardari, the husband of the country's first woman PM Benazir Bhutto, was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) last year and examined for several days before being released on medical grounds in December. In Pakistan last month, the court accused former President Asif Ali Zardari and his sister Faryal Talpur in the money laundering case. As per the case, Zardari deposited the wrongly earned money in fake bank accounts and then sent it abroad. CPI(M) unit of Tripura has sought DGP's involvement; know the matter Rahul Gandhi is of double standard, he needs to get tuition from nationalists: BJP MLA Surendra Singh Social Media users trolled Rahul Gandhi, termed him as Indian Mr Bean The Miami chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) presented Tayana Dix and Camille Devincenti, two University of Miami students, with scholarships at their 33rd Annual Ev Clay/PRSA Miami Endowment Fund awards. Dix and Devincenti, both School of Communication students, were presented with the scholarships on Oct. 2 in a virtual ceremony hosted by Louis Aguirre, WPLG Local 10 news anchor. They will each receive $3,400. Established in 1985 in memory of Miami public relations pioneer Everett A. Clay, the scholarships are presented to students who are contributing to the field and need financial assistance for their studies. Eight South Florida students were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments in the field of public relations and given scholarships. The achievements of South Florida communications professionals were also highlighted at the Facebook Live event. This year's Communicator to Watch honoree was Elizabeth Nickerson, director of marketing and communications for the American Heart Association. Bernadette Morris was the 2020 Bill Adams Lifetime Achievement honoree. Morris is the president and CEO of Sonshine Communications. Lastly, Lee Brian Schrager, senior vice president of communications and corporate social responsibility at Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits and the creator of the Food Network and Cooking Channel South Beach and New York City Wine & Food Festivals was recognized as the Royal Palm Award honoree. Dix, a senior from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, said this award couldnt have come at a better time. Following a year of unfortunate events, receiving this scholarship has renewed her emotionally and lifted financial stress from her parents during the pandemic. There's so much uncertainty, and it's easy to feel alone, said Dix. And still, in spite of all that, they still put together a fund for students to make sure that they can pursue their dreams. In the beginning stages of figuring out her post-graduate plans, Dix said that this award will help launch her onto a path of success. Winning this award made me feel so overwhelmingly supported, said Dix. It came out of left field and is a huge reminder that I have people rooting for me. Devincenti, a junior who recently changed her major to international studies because she hopes to one day work for an international organization, was excited to learn she was among this years cohort of winners. Through this experience, I have also met other women in PR, she said. Before the awards, we met virtually to make a fun video for social media. I think this is such an amazing scholarship, and Im grateful to be a part of this organization. Growing up in Washington, D.C., Devincenti said she was exposed to the media worldpolitics especiallyfrom a young age. Interested in fusing her creativity and politics, she hopes this scholarship will open up new doors for her as she enters her final year at the University. Both students thanked Heidi Carr, associate professor in the School of Communication, for her dedication to students and aspiring them to work in the public relations field one day. Shes always encouraging us and making sure that we are getting as much information as possible, said Devincenti. She has helped facilitate experiences and has been awesome to all of her students. As Aguirre wrapped up the virtual event, he wished the students good fortune. Congratulations to all of the scholarship recipients, he said. We wish you all success! The growing capabilities of sensing, computing and communication devices are leading to an explosion of Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructures. Advances in such technologies as autonomous systems and artificial intelligence also promise enormous economic and societal benefits. Naturally, it is desirable to deploy these technologies in IoT infrastructures. However, such deployments present daunting changes for increasingly scaled-up IoT infrastructures in mission-critical applications, such as medical, energy, transportation, and industrial-automation systems. To help improve IoT infrastructure, Fanxin Kong, assistant professor of electrical engineering and computer science, was awarded a grant by the National Science Foundation (NSF) for research on "Internet of Things Design and Deployment of Scalable, Secure, and Smart Mission Critical IoT System." "This project aims to develop a cross-layer and full hardware/software stack solution, referred to as the S3-IoT framework, for the design and deployment of scalable, secure, and smart mission-critical IoT systems," says Kong. This project will be collaboratively performed by professors from six universities, including the University of Florida, University of Notre Dame, University of Connecticut, Syracuse University, Villanova University and Kansas State University. This project is a planning grant awarded under the NSF program named Principles and Practice of Scalable Systems (PPoSS), which serves as the basis for the future proposal of a five-year large grant. ### Suburban 'White Privilege' Democrats By Mark Alexander Today's socialist Democrat Party is headed by the most strident group of leftists in a century a committed cabal of true believers. They're headed by Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, whose campaign against President Donald Trump and campaign manifesto against American Liberty is aided and abetted by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY). In 2018, President Donald Trump set Democrat heads ablaze when he declared, correctly, that the party's Leftmedia propagandists were the "enemy of the people." According to Trump: "There is great anger in our country caused in part by inaccurate, and even fraudulent, reporting of the news. The Fake News Media, the true Enemy of the People, must stop the open and obvious hostility and report the news accurately and fairly. That will do much to put out the flames of Anger and Outrage and we will then be able to bring all sides together in Peace and Harmony. Fake News Must End!" Today, however, Democrats and their MSM publicists are stirring up much more than mere anger and outrage; they're fomenting great danger for our Republic and for all Americans. Pelosi and Schumer spent the last three years trying to take down Trump with their deep-state-fabricated Russia-collusion coup, and when that failed, they shifted to a contrived "quid pro quo" impeachment charade to convict Trump of a phony offense that Joe Biden actually admitted on camera to perpetrating against Ukraine. Fortunately, that effort failed. But in this election year, Democrats were quick to politicize the enormous social and economic strain of the COVID-19 pandemic, because they cynically calculated that the loss of 40 million American jobs and the estimated death of 200,000 Americans would bolster their election prospects. Topping that obscene calculus, only the enemies of our Republic would then fan the fires of civil unrest in their own Demo-controlled urban centers. But that's precisely what they did, using the fallacious claim of "systemic racism" as justification. Since then, Democrats and their sycophants have effectively denied that the tinder for those flames is the direct result of decades of their own failed socialist policies. Instead, they've blamed those who wear a badge those in law enforcement while taking a congressional knee for career criminals and street thugs. But Democrats would be powerless to promote their "dark" vision of America without the funding of their wealthy white suburban legions. I'm not referring to the elites in their socialist billionaire Archenemies of Liberty Club those whose names you immediately recognize: George Soros, Michael Bloomberg, Jeff Bezos, and Tom Steyer. No, those leftist billionaires don't dwell among the masses of white suburbanites supporting Democrats and, by extension, supporting policies that continue to create nightmares for poor urban Americans. That white suburbanite support constitutes the ultimate hypocritical manifestation of "white privilege," and it's exercised by those who will never experience the social degradation and devastation of the very policies they support. The protagonists of white suburban leftism are primarily inheritance welfare liberals, the effluent of generational wealth and privilege. While there are plenty of them in urban centers, most choose to live in the safety and comfort of suburbia. You know who they and their likeminded leftists are, because most of them advertise it in their yards. Until the plastic Biden/Harris signs became available, they did most of their virtue signaling with "Hate Has No Home Here" yard signs, expressing their disdain for "We, the [Deplorable] People." They fear grassroots Americans because they have no intersection with us, and they hate us as much as they do President Trump. Despite their facade, they're an insecure lot who drink the Black Lives Matter Kool-Aid by the case, because they think it will ingratiate them with those they fear. But the sad truth is that black lives don't matter to leftist hate hustlers. They never have. As for the Biden/Harris yard signs sprouting up, they project much more than a political preference. The signs adorn the homes of white-privileged Democrats that cadre of leftists who believe they're entitled to be the arbiters of what's in the best interest of everyone else. The signs advertise that a white emotionally incontinent voter lives there. They advertise almost universally that the person in that house has never lifted a finger "to support and defend" American Liberty. In our suburban east Tennessee community, generally speaking, conservatives don't put political yard signs out front during contentious political seasons, primarily to maintain comity an atmosphere of harmony, mutual civility, and respect among neighbors. Though President Trump will carry our community and state, most of the yard signs we see are Biden/Harris because, demonstrably, neighborhood harmony, civility, and respect are not Democrat attributes. That being said, I should note that ahead of the 2016 election, a "friend" put about 10 Hillary Clinton signs in our yard. He was repaid with interest! Finally, regarding the latest iteration of white privilege virtue signaling, a friend offered a paraphrase of Proverbs 17:28: "Tis better to remain silent and be thought a fool ... than to put a Biden sign in your yard and remove all doubt." Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post. The recovery of the hotel industry has already begun in some countries, including Vietnam The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had a lasting impact on the global society and economy and the hotel industry is among the hardest hit with many hotels unable to maintain profitable operations and have closed their doors. But behind every challenge are new opportunities. However, it may take years for tourism to recover to the pre-pandemic level, but it certainly will. By then, investors with the most in-depth understanding of the market will be well-equipped to take advantage of the new competitive landscape, according to Grant Thorton's Hotel Survey 2020. The report says that Vietnam's hotel industry in 2019 saw little change in terms of trends and patterns in comparison to 2018. Average room rate for upscale hotels in Vietnam increased by 1.9 per cent while occupancy rate and revenue per available room decreased by 4.3 and 3.4 per cent. It is worth noting that Asia continue to be the biggest market while the number of domestic guests grew slowly. South Korea is replacing China as Vietnams biggest source of guests. However, the proportion of domestic guests visiting upscale hotels has been increasing over the years, reaching 22.2 per cent in 2019. Furthermore, while the proportion of free independent travellers and leisure travelers were similar across both star rankings, 4-star hotels served a much higher percentage of tour guests in 2019, at 30.5 per cent compared to 18.3 per cent of 5-stars properties. 5-star hotels, on the other hand, served more business and conference guests. Normally, 5-star hotels would have a higher portion of free independent travellers than 4-stars. However, as fewer 5-star hotels have joined the survey this year, many of which are city hotels, so data did not reflect this characteristic. The survey also pointed out that in 2019, hoteliers remain wary about some of Vietnams issues regarding hotel and tourism development. Poor infrastructure, increasing competition and hotels operating costs are the top concerns by hotels. While partcipants are less worried about the impact of environmental problems, 21.9 per cent of them consider it to be highly impactful. While the slow down in the growth of arrivals is seen as less risky, this suvey was carried out during June 2020 when the pandemic situation was more positive. LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 5, 2020 / Compare-autoinsurance.org (https://compare-autoinsurance.org) has launched a new blog post that presents several factors that affect the premiums and how to keep costs under control. For more info and free car insurance quotes, visit https://compare-autoinsurance.org/why-do-you-pay-so-much-on-car-insurance-premiums Car insurance rates have a tendency to rise over time. 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CONTACT: Company Name: Internet Marketing Company Person for contact: Daniel C Phone Number: (818) 359-3898 Email: cgurgu@internetmarketingcompany.biz Website: https://compare-autoinsurance.org SOURCE: Internet Marketing Company View source version on accesswire.com: https://www.accesswire.com/609076/Top-Factors-That-Increase-Car-Insurance-Costs AMARAVATI: TDP National President and former Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Monday (October 5, 2020) strongly objected to the way the AP Police handled the minor girl molestation case in Rajahmundry that eventually led to the suicide attempt of her father. Terming it an yet another instance of deteriorating law and order in Andhra Pradesh, Naidu said that there were continuous attacks on Dalits, tribal people, people belonging to Backward Classes (BCs), Muslims, women and journalists among others across the State. He added, ''Unfortunately, the police, who are supposed to uphold rule of law, are either conniving with the ruling party or turning a blind eye to injustices occurring across the State.'' In a letter to DGP Gautam Sawang here, the TDP chief said that Shaik Sattar consumed poison in front of the office of the Superintendent of Police, Rajamahendravaram, as he faced threats from the accused. ''Sattars minor daughter was allegedly molested by someone who apparently belongs to the ruling YSRCP. The Sattar family lodged a case against the accused vide FIR No. 578/2020 registered under sections 354, 506 r/w 34 IPC, 11 r/w 12 POCSO Act, 2012,'' read his letter. Naidu said that since the accused seems to be from the YSRCP, the police allegedly pressurised Sattar to withdraw the case. Unable to bear the torture, Shaik Sattar tried to take his own life on October 1, ironically in front of an office housing those responsible for protecting it. Sattar is currently battling for life at the Government Hospital in Kakinada. As such, Andhra Pradesh is witnessing deteriorating law and order and violations of the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution of India which are guaranteed to all citizens. Live TV The TDP chief said that there has been a consistent attack on the freedom of speech and expression as guaranteed by Article 19(1)(a). "As the Leader of the Opposition, it's my duty to bring such undemocratic acts to your notice for appropriate action. Today, even an iota of dissent expressed against the anti-people policies of the Government readily is leading to witch-hunts, midnight arrests, violent attacks, damages to property and threats. They are unleashing upon the dissenter a vilified character-assassination campaign." Naidu deplored that the current functioning of the police in the State is unprecedented in the history of any State. The Andhra Pradesh Police has now earned a dubious distinction of topping the country in the number of cases registered against its own personnel. It is as per the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). Out of 4,068 cases registered against police personnel across India, 1,681 cases (41%) were registered in Andhra Pradesh alone. These numbers speak for themselves and reflect the functioning of the police in todays Andhra Pradesh. Naidu said that in another incident, the car of Kommareddy Pattabhi, an Official Spokesperson of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) was attacked and damaged on the night of October 3. Even though there is a police picket close by, the culprits are still at large. He said, ''The act of damaging Pattabhis car is a clear attempt at intimidating him and stopping him from raising his voice against the anti-people policies of YSRCP-led Government. This is not the only case and there has been a series of attacks against TDP leaders who have raised their voice against the anti-people policies of the YSRCP-led Government.'' The TDP chief termed it as sad that the acts of head tonsuring to humiliate fellow human beings are continuing unabated in the State. He said, ''there are attacks on places of worship with seemingly a sinister design. In this backdrop, the YSRCP-led Government, instead of protecting the people, is busy demolishing buildings belonging to dissenters in the dark hours. These incidents have eroded peoples faith in the police. Therefore, the DGP should take steps to restore the law and order situation in the State by allowing the police to discharge their duties impartially and fearlessly. It is crucial to arrest the soaring rate of crimes and to safeguard the fundamental rights of the people. The people of Andhra Pradesh must be assured of an environment free of violence and fear.'' Meanwhile, denying all the claims of Chandrababu Naidu, Rajahmahendravaram Urban SP Shemushi Bajpayee told Zee Media, ''``It's a false propaganda. Before levelling allegations, those who are doing so ( without naming Chandrababu Naidu ) should do some ground work and check facts. In this molestation case of the minor girl, not only the three accused were arrested and remanded to judicial custody, the chargesheet was also filed and the case is coming up for trial in Special Posco Court. Kakinada, on October 21'' With regards to molestation victim's father suicide attempt case, ``we have already arrested one person and we will be catching hold of another person named in the complaint soon, and also we have filed case under section 306 r/w 116 IPC,'' Ravi Kumar, DSP, Rajahmahendravaram East informed Zee Media. ``Infact, the molestation victim's mother publicly praised our local Sub-Inspector and Circle Inspector for taking quick action,'' the DSP added. An incident of rape was reported on July 26, 2020 in Rajahmahendravam town in Andhra Pradesh. On October 1, the victim's father consumed poison in front of the police station stating he was ``being pressured to withdraw the case.'' Presently, the molestation victim is fine and is with her mother while her father's condition is stable. "Saturday Night Live" fans saddened by Kamala Harris dropping out of the race for Democratic nominee for president got a consolation prize: Her return to the show as Joe Biden's vice presidential pick. "SNL" favorite Maya Rudolph was back Saturday to reprise her role as the California Senator, interrupting the presidential debate to attempt to bring order to the chaos. Kejriwal launches anti-air pollution campaign, says polluted air can be life threatening in view CO India oi-Madhuri Adnal New Delhi, Oct 05: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday launched a mega anti-air pollution campaign, saying polluted air can be life threatening in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the campaign "Yudh Pradushan ke Virudh", separate plans have been prepared for each of the 13 pollution hotspots in the city, Kejriwal said during a digital press conference. "Polluted air can be life threatening in view of the COVID-19 pandemic. Both affect lungs," he said. Kejriwal said a "war room" is being set up to monitor all anti-pollution measures being taken by his government. Hathras protest: Kejriwal joins protest, demands strictest punishment for accused The government is also preparing a "Green Delhi" mobile application, he said. "Using it, people can bring pollution causing activities, such as garbage burning or industrial pollution, to our notice. There will be a deadline to address complaints. I will get a daily report about resolved and pending grievances," the chief minister said. Kejriwal has also issued directions to departments concerned to fill potholes to reduce dust emissions, which, he said, is a major contributor to air pollution in the city. "Teams have been inspecting construction sites to check dust pollution," he said. JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News The chief minister said one of the major reasons for high levels of pollution in Delhi and nearby areas is stubble burning. "Scientists at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute here have found an economical way to deal with the problem. They have prepared a solution which can turn stubble into manure," he said. "We are going to prepare this solution at a large scale from Tuesday under the supervision of experts from the institute. This solution will be used in Delhi this year. Next year, we will urge other states to use it," Kejriwal said. He also said that 11 thermal power plants within 300 km of Delhi have missed the December 2019 deadline to meet new emission norms. "We shut down our two thermal power plants. These 11 plants need to reduce their emissions," Kejriwal said. The chief minister said that action is also needed against a large number of brick kilns using outdated technology in nearby areas. We are planning a trip in July 2021 pending COVID restrictions. Im seeking feedback and suggestions on destinations, how long in each destination is recommended, and Peru Hop as a means of transport. We have from 21 to 30 days approximately for this trip. We are in our early sixties and in good health and active. My spouse does have problems with his knees and would not want any long hikes or anything to strenuous. We love outdoor activities, but prefer to do them at our own pace. We dont care much for the party seen, but love good beer and wine with a view. We love nature and beautiful scenery and also love history and culture. Our Spanish is very minimal, but we have made several trips into Mexico and Central and South America without incident. Our budget is low to moderate. We will be trying to stretch the budget to accommodate the length of the trip without sacrificing comfy beds and showers. Below is a list of places that interest us and suggestion and feedback is welcome. We are open to adding and taking away from the list. We also need advice on how long to allow for each destination. Arequipa Colca Canyon Lake Titicaca (no floating islands, prefer overnight on one of the islands from Cocacabana or Puno) La Paz with added salt flat tour. Cusco with MP and surrounding area We are also kind of leaning towards using Peru Hop and Bolivia Hop. Although we have used buses and taxis on trips before, it is somewhat stressful with our limited Spanish. I know it is a little more costly, but it checks boxes for ease of getting around. What I dont care for is the limited schedule and overnight on buses. Also the trip from Lima includes several stops that dont really interest us and includes an overnight arriving in Aeriqepa at 5:30 in the morning. If we use them, we will most likely fly from Lima to aeriquipa and start the trip at that point into Bolivia and back to Cusco from there. This would passing through Cocacabana and Puno twice but I think we can make the best of it. Considering all this, I may decide to use a combination of domestic flight and typical buses if the final trip destinations make it simple enough. Thanks for all the help. Actor Bobby Deol on Monday expressed his gratitude and penned an emotional and overwhelming message as he celebrated 25 years in the industry. Alongside the note, the 'Soldier' star shared a picture of himself that was made by colliding the poster of his films. Marking the silver jubilee anniversary in the show business, actor Bobby Deol on Monday expressed his gratitude in the form of a heartfelt post. The Yamla Pagla Deewana star took to Twitter and penned an emotional and overwhelming message as he celebrated a landmark in the industry. Its been 25 years at the movies for me A journey that started in October of 1995..The one thing these 25 years have taught me is, to never give up; always bounce back and keep moving ahead! tweeted Bobby. Alongside the note, the Soldier star shared a picture of himself that was made by colliding the poster of his films. The picture read, 25 Years of Lights Camera Action. Humbled and grateful. Elaborating further, he added, Looking forward to another 25 years with my colleagues at the movies with a promise to be worthy of all your love and support and to entertain you till my end credits dont roll out!. Actor Bobby Deol is all set to make his digital debut with Prakash Jhas upcoming MX Player-based series Aashram. Deol shared the first look of the series on Instagram with a motion poster of the show featuring him in a fierce role. It's been 25 years at the movies for me.. A journey that started in October of 1995.. an overwhelming and emotional one. I proudly say, Ive seen the highs and the lows. The one thing these 25 years have taught me is, to never give up; always bounce back and keep moving ahead! pic.twitter.com/eiX3k1I4VU Bobby Deol (@thedeol) October 5, 2020 Also Read: CBI revealed Sushant was a characterless and playful artist: Shiv Sena on AIIMS report Here is the first look of Aashram, I am looking forward to seeing it together with you all on August 28, 2020, only on MX Player, he wrote in the caption. According to film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the show also stars actors Chandan Roy Sanyal, Aaditi Pohankar, Darshan Kumaar and Adhyayan Suman. Looking forward to another 25 years with my colleagues at the movies with a promise to be worthy of all your love and support and to entertain you till my end credits roll out! Bobby Deol (@thedeol) October 5, 2020 Also Read: Bell Bottom teaser: Akshay Kumar takes you back to the 80s A view of tanks which Azeri army officials said were seized during the ongoing fighting with Armenia over the breakaway Nagorno-Karabakh region, in the town of Beylagan on October 5, 2020. (AFP) Yerevan: The fighting between Armenian and Azerbaijani forces over the separatist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh resumed Monday morning, with both sides accusing each other of launching attacks. Armenian military officials on Monday reported missile strikes hitting Stepanakert, the capital of Nagorno-Karabakh. The region lies in Azerbaijan but has been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia since the end of a separatist war in 1994. Firefights of varying intensity continue to rage in the conflict zone, Armenian Defense Ministry spokeswoman Shushan Stepanian said on Facebook. The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry, in turn, accused Armenian forces of shelling the towns of Tartar, Barda and Beylagan. Ganja, Azerbaijans second-largest city far outside of the conflict zone, is also under fire, officials said. Armenias Foreign Ministry in a statement dismissed allegations of the attacks being launched from the Armenias territory as a disinformation campaign waged by Azerbaijan. Vahram Poghosyan, spokesman for Nagorno-Karabakhs leader, on Monday warned in a Facebook post that the territorys forces would target military facilities in Azerbaijani cities in response to strikes on Stepanakert and Shushi, a town in Nagorno-Karabakh. The fighting erupted Sept. 27 and has killed dozens, marking the biggest escalation in the decades-old conflict over the region. Both sides have accused each other of expanding the hostilities beyond the conflict zone in Nagorno-Karabakh. Nagorno-Karabakh officials have said nearly 200 servicemen on their side have died in the clashes so far. Eighteen civilians have been killed and more than 90 others wounded. Azerbaijani authorities havent given details about their military casualties, but said 24 civilians were killed and 121 others were wounded. Nagorno-Karabakh was a designated autonomous region within Azerbaijan during the Soviet era. It claimed independence from Azerbaijan in 1991, about three months before the Soviet Unions collapse. A full-scale war that broke out in 1992 killed an estimated 30,000 people. By the time the war ended in 1994, Armenian forces not only held Nagorno-Karabakh itself but substantial areas outside the territorys formal borders. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has repeatedly said that Armenias withdrawal from Nagorno-Karabakh is the sole condition to end the fighting. Armenian officials allege that Turkey is involved in the conflict on the side of Azerbaijan and is sending fighters from Syria to the region. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said that a cease-fire can be established only if Turkey is removed from the South Caucasus. Turkeys government has denied sending arms or foreign fighters, while publicly siding with Azerbaijan in the dispute. Ireland's government faced political and business resistance on Monday to a surprise recommendation by health chiefs for Europe's first major second wave national lockdown to prevent hospitals from being overwhelmed as coronavirus cases rise. The National Public Health Emergency Team called for a leap to the highest level of COVID-19 restrictions, Level 5, late on Sunday, just three days after telling government the current Level 2 status for most of the country was appropriate. While Ireland reported the highest number of daily cases since late April on Saturday, its 14-day cumulative case total of 104.6 per 100,000 people is only the 14th-highest infection rate out of 31 European countries monitored by the European Centre for Disease Control. The leaders of the three governing coalition partners will meet Ireland's chief medical officer on Monday before cabinet considers the advice. "If we're brutally honest, as a people we could better adhere to existing restrictions. Let's collectively put that right rather than going nuclear just yet," Barry Cowen said on Twitter. One of the health officials that provided the advice said Ireland could run out of intensive care beds by the start of November if the current trajectory of COVID-19 cases continued. "It's more than fear, it's the reality. If we keep going the way were are, if you or I had a bad road traffic accident in November or needed emergency cardiac surgery, there may not be an intensive care bed," Mary Favier, a general practitioner and member of the emergency team, told national broadcaster RTE. One minister said a decision needed to be made on Monday. "Doubt many of us got a night's sleep. So many worries and questions on people's minds. Today needs to bring clarity," said Higher Education Minister Simon Harris, the health minister during one of Europe's strictest lockdowns earlier this year. Under Level 5, people would be asked to stay at home, except to exercise within 5 km, with only essential retailers allowed to stay open. Ireland re-opened its economy at a slower pace than most of Europe from May and while its large multinational sector has shielded it from the worst of the economic hit, the unemployment rate is stuck just below 15% even as the government props up wages in many parts of the economy. "This is crazy. It is just going to cause decimation if we shut down at this time," Duncan Graham, head of Retail Excellence, the sector's main lobby group, told RTE. (Reuters) Source: www.businessworld.ie President Emmerson Mnangagwa has condemned acts of violence and growing cases of ritual killings of minors in the country. He was speaking during the burial of National Hero Brigadier General Ruphus Chigudu at the National Heroes Acre this Monday. Isu tasara, ngatirambei takabatana, in defence of our hard won independence. Violence, destruction of property and making Zimbabwe ungovernable can never be democratic and that is not what we fought for. The Government is worried about the growing cases of ritual killings of minors. Equally worrisome are the growing cases of armed and violent crimes. I have ordered our security arms to deal with such misdeeds severely, said President Mnangagwa. Turning to the late National Hero the President described him as a peace loving cadre whose behaviour should be emulated by the security forces and Zimbabweans at large Cde Chigudu knew the value of peace. We pay tribute to him by keeping peace. I applaud the people of Zimbabwe as well as the security forces for keeping peace and harmony especially as we fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Hence I would like to urge you to continue paying attention to the Covid-19 rules. Voting and democracy are enjoyed by the living not the sick, he said. The President also said that the fact that Brigadier General Chigudu has been buried in October is quite significant because it is the month SADC stands with the country to fight the illegally imposed sanctions on the country. Brigadier General Chigudu, whose Chimurenga name was Promise Chombo, died on the 24th of September at Parirenyatwa General Hospital in Harare at the age of 64. He is survived by his wife Vimbai Chigudu (nee Goboza) and three children. ZBC Arizona News Phoenix, Arizona - Governor Doug Ducey declared October 2020 Arizona Manufacturing Month to highlight manufacturers throughout the state and recognize the industrys impact on Arizonas economic growth. Data shows there are nearly 177,600 manufacturing jobs in Arizona. In Fiscal Year 2018, manufacturing across the state produced a total gross state product of $47.3 billion and total exports reached $24.5 billion. Manufacturers across Arizona contribute to our economy and employ hundreds of thousands of Arizonans, said Governor Ducey. "At the same time, they are building the products we use, powering our technology, and putting food on our tables. We have nearly 177,600 manufacturing jobs in Arizona, and growing with exciting new opportunities like TSMC and Mark Anthony Brewing. With our friendly business climate, strategic location and relationship with Mexico, and talented workforce, we will continue to welcome manufacturers to the state. Arizona last year experienced its strongest manufacturing growth in 30 years. Manufacturers that chose to relocate or expand operations in Arizona this year included: Haryana government has no problem if enters the state with a few people for his tractor rallies on Tuesday and Wednesday, but he will not be allowed to bring a big crowd to "disturb" the atmosphere, Home Minister has said. Gandhi, who is holding tractor rallies in Punjab against the newly enacted farm laws, is set to reach Pehowa town in Kurukshetra district of Haryana with his supporters Tuesday and address a gathering. He will also address public gatherings in Karnal, Congress leaders said. "If he wants to come alone or with just a few people, there is no problem. He can come 100 times, we have no objection. But if he comes with a big crowd from Punjab to disturb Haryana's atmosphere, then we will not permit. We are not going to allow that," Vij told PTI on Monday. "This issue concerns our law and order. Last month, two Congress-sponsored rallies were also stopped by us from entering our state. Congress is in power in Punjab and they want to use state machinery to spoil Haryana's peaceful atmosphere, which we will not allow, he added. He alleged that Congress is trying its best to instigate the farmers of Haryana but the state government will not allow them to succeed in their designs. "Under no circumstances will we allow Congress's evil designs to spoil peace and tranquillity in Haryana, we won't permit (it) at any cost, he said. Vij, who is also the health minister of Haryana, had said on October 1 too that Gandhi's tractor rally won't be allowed to enter the state, prompting Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh to ask him if a "jungle raj" was prevailing there. During his two-day visit to Haryana, Gandhi, according to party leaders, is scheduled to address a farmers' gathering in Pehowa. After a night halt in Kurukshetra, he will visit Pipli on Wednesday morning, where he will meet the farmers who were allegedly lathicharged during a protest against the three pieces of farm legislation on September 10. The former Congress president will then proceed to Nilokheri and Karnal before returning to Delhi. Vij, who has been vocal against the rule of Nehru-Gandhi family, said no permission will be given to gather huge crowds at one place inside Haryana. I am bound by law, how can I permit huge crowds, Vij said. On Amarinder Singh's jungle raj comment, Vij said, actually, it is Punjab where there is no law and order. They talk about farmers, but they burn the tools they worship. First they (youth Congress workers) set fire to a tractor on Ambala border, later a tractor was set on fire by them in Delhi. They are not concerned with farmers, they are only doing in their name. Rahul Gandhi, Amarinder Singh and (Punjab Congress chief) Sunil Jakhar ride a modified tractor during their tractor rally in Punjab, even during their so-called protest they do not want to part with luxury. They should see how hard a farmer toils in his fields, he said. Vij said the Congress was misleading farmers on farm laws, which are going to bring a big change for the better in the lives of peasants. He also accused the Congress of politicising the Hathras gang-rape incident and while referring to alleged rape of two minor sisters in Baran district of Rajasthan, questioned why Congress leaders and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra did not visit Baran. (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.) My number one priority is keeping our kids safe and protecting the health of the people of Michigan. These words from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer have been the foundation of every decision she has made during this COVID-19 pandemic, especially when issuing executive orders. Her decisive action to mitigate the spread of coronavirus in our state saved thousands of lives, including here in Oakland County. There is a group, however, that wants Michigan voters to rescind her ability to respond to public health and other emergencies, a responsibility that was mandated to the governors office by the Michigan Legislature. That viewpoint is at odds with the facts which indicate Gov. Whitmer made her decisions with care and deliberation. Science and data, not a political agenda, informed her executive orders. Oakland County had some of the first confirmed coronavirus cases in Michigan and was among the counties most impacted by the pandemic. From the time we learned of our initial cases on March 10 to when Gov. Whitmer issued her Stay Home, Stay Safe order on March 23, Oakland County was just shy of 500 cases. Our seven-day average for cases per day peaked at 296 only two weeks after the governor issued her executive order. Two weeks thats one incubation period for coronavirus. Her bold leadership quickly curtailed the spread of the illness, ahead of many other states. The seven-day average for COVID-19 deaths in Oakland County peaked about a week later at 27 deaths per day. From mid-April to the beginning of June, we began a slow but steady decline in the number of cases and deaths per day until the curve flattened. It was at that time Gov. Whitmer lifted her Stay Home, Stay Safe order a decision made by data not by politics. Our outstanding public health leadership and experts at the Oakland County Health Division completely agreed with and supported the governors executive orders to protect our residents from the disease. In some instances, they went a step further because of local circumstances. Finally, none of Gov. Whitmers orders would have been effective at slowing the pandemic without your sacrifices. Your cooperation and willingness to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your neighbors made all the difference. I am so proud of the businesses and other organizations that stepped up to help us through these extraordinary times. This speaks volumes about the publics support for stopping COVID-19. Gov. Whitmer said, People want leaders they can look up to, who can solve problems and actually deliver results for our people. Thats exactly what shes achieved throughout this pandemic. David Coulter is Oakland County Executive. This is the only surviving traditional village in Singapore. Known as the Kampong Lorong Buangkok, the village sits hidden between the skyscrapers in the crowded city-state. The 26 single-story wooden houses here were once ubiquitous across the island. And now... it's seeing a boom in tourists after the borders were shut. Kyanta Yap, a local guide said their weekend visits have been nearly fully booked since September. "In fact, because we travel agencies, we try to reinvent ourselves, so most of the industry, we try to come out with domestic tourism packages, and so because of that, more and more people start to come out, because they couldn't go travel anywhere, so they try to book something to do in Singapore." For local tourists, like Jenn Lee, it is a chance to share nostalgia with her son. "Singapore, right here, we have (it), so it's better to come to see and experience it before it goes extinct." But during the country's rush to urbanize, these villages slowly disappeared. Now, tourists get a chance to wander around the last one standing, learning the traditional way of life from villagers like 52-year-old Nassim. "Oh, initially we had, we were very uncomfortable, because tourists would start to come and look at us. They thought that we are part of the model of their excursion that they come and visit. But so we took the initiative by going out and talk to them. 'Look, this is what we are, this is our residence, this is like the house that you people are staying'." The village also boasts some of the lowest rents in usually pricey Singapore. A landlord said some individual kampong rooms cost as little as under $5 American dollars per month. RESTON, Va., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Leidos Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: LDOS) ("Leidos"), a FORTUNE 500 science and technology leader, today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Leidos, Inc. (the "Issuer"), intends to commence, subject to market and customary conditions, a private offering of senior unsecured notes (the "Notes") pursuant to Rule 144A and Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). The Notes will be the senior unsecured obligations of the Issuer and will be fully and unconditionally guaranteed on a senior basis by Leidos. The Notes and the related guarantee will be structurally subordinated to the liabilities of Leidos' and the Issuer's existing and future subsidiaries. The Issuer intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for general corporate purposes, including, among other things, to pay the outstanding balance on its 364-day term loan facility and a portion of the outstanding balance on its five-year term loan facility. The Notes and the related guarantee will be offered in the United States to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act, and outside the United States to non-United States persons in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. The Notes and the related guarantee have not been registered under the Securities Act and may not be offered or sold in the United States without registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. 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, any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration, qualification or exemption under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. About Leidos Leidos is a Fortune 500 information technology, engineering, and science solutions and services leader working to solve the world's toughest challenges in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, civil, and health markets. The company's 38,000 employees support vital missions for government and commercial customers. 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Media: Melissa Lee Duenas (571) 526-6850 [email protected] Investors: Peter Berl (571) 526-7582 [email protected] SOURCE Leidos Related Links http://www.leidos.com Police say a one-year-old boy was killed and his mother was injured after a suspect attempting to steal the woman's car outside a Texas hospital backed into her while she was holding her son in her arms. Officers responded to the Texas Health Huguley Hospital in the 11800 block of South Freeway in South Fort Worth just before 9pm on Sunday after getting reports of a vehicular accident. According to investigators, a mother and father had met in the hospital parking lot to exchange custody of their one-year-old son, identified this afternoon as Zayden McLean, when a suspect, 30-year-old Nico Delafuenete, attempted to steal the woman's car. Scroll down for video Zayden McLean, one, was identified by police in Texas as the child who was killed during a carjacking on Sunday NBC 5 reported that Zayden's father jumped inside the car to try and stop the thief from driving away and a struggle ensued. Nico Delafuente, 30, has been charged with capital murder and aggravated robbery for allegedly killing Zayden Police said Delafuene put the car in reverse and backed into the mother while she was holding her son in her arms, reported The Dallas Morning News. The woman and child fell to the ground, and Delafuente allegedly ran them over again as he sped away from the scene, according to investigators. Zayden was rushed to Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth, where he died later from his injuries. He would have turned two next month. The mother was also hospitalized but was expected to recover. A GoFundMe campaign description identified Zayden's parents as Bailey Bingham, of Cleburne, and Shea McLean. 'He was a child of love and spirit,' the organizer of the campaign wrote of Zayden. 'Everyone who knew him loved him, and that love will continue to carry.' A mother and father had met in the parking lot of the Texas Health Huguley Hospital in Forth Worth, Texas, on Sunday night to exchange custody of their one-year-old son Police say as the family were standing outside, Delafuente got into the woman's car and tried to speed away A friend of Bingham's wrote in the description of a second fundraiser that the mom-of-one was in the ICU with brain damage and bleeding around her brain. Delafuente drove away but crashed into a tree not far from the hospital. He then tried to escape on foot, but collapsed from the injuries he suffered in the wreck. A hospital security guard took him into custody until police arrived on the scene and arrested him, reported CBS DFW. The boy's father jumped in the car to stop the thief, who then back the vehicle into Bailey Bingham and Zayden, killing the boy, who would have turned 2 next month Bailey Bingham, Zayden's mother, is said to be in the hospital. A friend wrote online she has bleeding around the brain After being treated for his injuries at the hospital, Delafuente was booked into the Tarrant County Jail on charges of capital murder and aggravated robbery. He is being held without a bond. Records indicate that he has a prior criminal record that included a 2012 arrest on a DWI charge. Google will delay enforcement in India of a new billing policy that will force some developers to pay a 30 percent commission on in-app purchases, the company announced (via TechCrunch). The new rules are set to go in effect globally by September 2021, but after facing pushback from an alliance of app developers, Google will postpone them in India until April 2022. Google started facing pushback over the policy after it temporarily pulled an app called Paytm for promoting gambling. The app was running a fantasy sports-type feature for the popular IPL cricket tournament, which allowed users to win money or points redeemable for physical goods. Paytm subsequently launched its own mini-app store (below) that allows other developers to sell subscriptions without any commission. So far, 300 large players like ride-hailing company Ola, Booking.com and McDonalds have signed up. Paytm Google pointed out that its payment system only applies to three percent of developers, and among those, most already use it. It said that its billing system provides a simple, safe way for consumers to transact, and includes reminders about free trials, clear price disclosures and information about cancellations and refunds. It added that its willing to speak with developers to resolve any concerns. We are setting up listening sessions with leading Indian startups to understand their concerns more deeply, the company wrote. And were also extending the time for developers in India to integrate with the Play billing system, to ensure they have enough time to implement the UPI for subscription payment option that will be made available on Google Play. Still, the policy delay is another front in a rebellion thats happening against Google and Apples app store policies and commissions. Over the past few weeks, Apple has reacted by opening up the iOS store to game streaming (albeit in a rather limited way), while Google has made it easier for Android users to download apps via third-party stores. More changes may be in store (sorry) once a European Commission probe into Apple Pay and the App Store gets rolling. The Hathras Police have lodged an FIR against "unknown" persons for alleged attempt to trigger caste-based conflict and invoked serious charges, including sedition, officials said on Monday. The development comes amid an undying controversy over the death of a 19-year-old Dalit woman after she was allegedly gangraped, and continuous protests and visits to her village by political leaders and activists. The first information report (FIR) was lodged at the Chandpa police station on Sunday afternoon and names unknown as accused, according to police officials. The FIR mentions 19 charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The IPC sections include 124A (sedition), 505 (intending to cause public alarm and inducing someone to commit offence against state or public tranquility), 153A (promoting enmity between different groups). The police have also invoked section 67 (transmitting obscene material in electronic form) of the IT Act, according to the FIR. The UP government's statements and facts related to the Hathras incident are being forged, manipulated and circulated through social media. Misleading content is being shared with forged logos of media houses, a police officer told PTI. Some accused are circulating material that could trigger caste-based conflict and these are serious offences considering the current situation in the region, the officer said, adding the investigation is underway. According to local officials, the Hathras police have so far registered around a dozen complaints under the IT Act related to the Dalit girl's case and they are being probed by the Cyber Cell. The Dalit teen had died of grievous injuries in a Delhi hospital on September 29, a fortnight after she was allegedly raped at her village by four upper caste men. She wascrematedin the early hours of September 30. While the family claimed the cremation was carried out against their wishes, the police said the last rights in the dead of the night were held "as per the wishes of the family". The incidents have triggered massive outrage across the country, bringing severe flak for the government of UP which has now recommended a CBI probe into the whole episode. (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.) President Donald J. Trump participates in a phone call with Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley in his conference room at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. on Oct. 4, 2020, Not shown in the photo also in the room on the call is Chief of Staff Mark Meadows. (Official White House Photo by Tia Dufour) Trump Working on Declassification of Intelligence From Hospital, Chief of Staff Says White House chief of staff Mark Meadows told Fox News on Monday that President Donald Trump is working on declassifying documents related to the Russia investigation while he is working from Walter Reed hospital after being diagnosed with COVID-19. This morning weve already had a couple of discussions on items that he wants to get done, Meadows said in the interview. Candidly, hes already tasked me with getting declassification rolling in a follow-up to some of the requests that Devin Nunes and others have made, he said, referring to Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.), the ranking member of the House Intelligence Committee. Meadows didnt disclose what documents Trump was working on declassifying. House Republicans over the weekend said they will combat efforts from U.S. intelligence agencies to disclose classified information surrounding investigations into Russias interference in the 2016 election. Nunes told Fox News that an overhaul of the U.S. intelligence community might be warranted if more information isnt declassified. We want every damn bit of evidence that every intelligence agency has, or its maybe time to shut those agencies down, the California Republican said. Because, at the end of the day our liberties are more important than anything else we have in this country. And they have been stampeded over by these dirty cops. He called for the release of memos from interviews that the FBI carried out with Christopher Steele, who authored the controversial and discredited Steele dossier about Trump. Steele, a former British intelligence officer, was ultimately paid by Hillary Clintons campaign to investigate alleged links between Trump and Russia. House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and Nunes both told Fox News that they saw evidence from Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe saying in July 2016, intelligence agencies obtained information about Russian intelligence analysis alleging that Hillary Clinton approved a plan to stir up a scandal against President Trump that would tie him to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Every member of Congress should read the underlying information behind this, McCarthy said. This is really a bombshell of what we have wasted so much time on, that it was created by Hillary Clinton. Ratcliffes letter, which was made public by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), alleged that handwritten notes by former CIA Director John Brennan show that he briefed former President Barack Obama and other top national security officials on the Russian intelligence analysis. Top intelligence officials also forwarded a referral to former FBI Director James Comey and then-Deputy Assistant Director of Counterintelligence Peter Strzok. Democrats accused Ratcliffe and Republicans of releasing Russian disinformation. Ratcliffe, however, said in a statement that their allegations are untrue. To be clear, this is not Russian disinformation and has not been assessed as such by the intelligence community. Ill be briefing Congress on the sensitive sources and methods by which it was obtained in the coming days, he said to Fox News. New Delhi: The Congress on Monday (October 5, 2020) has finalised the names of the 25 candidates that are going to fight in the first phase of the Bihar Assembly election 2020. The list that was prepared during the Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting is likely to be released soon. The CEC will reportedly decide the candidates for the second and third phase of elections on October 7. Congress won 27 in 2015 assembly polls, out of the 41 seats they contested, and all the candidates who won, are likely to get tickets in this election as well. The national party had reportedly got the 6.66% of the total votes. Notably, the Congress has been allotted 70 seats in the 243-seat assembly this time in the grand alliance with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Also read | BJP holds CEC meet for upcoming Bihar Assembly election 2020 as suspense over seat sharing continues Earlier on Sunday, the Congress Screening Committee for Bihar assembly polls had met in the national capital and is learnt to have discussed the names of probable candidates for the upcoming elections in the state. The meeting of the screening panel, headed by Avinash Pande, was attended by Congress in-charge for Bihar affairs Shaktisinh Gohil, Bihar Congress chief Madan Mohan Jha and CLP leader Sadanand Singh among others. Meanwhile, the sources said that the RJD has also decided its first list of candidates and has allotted symbols to the candidates at Rabri Devi's residence. The event was reportedly attended by the party's senior leaders including Manoj Jha. The RJD has named 15 candidates and following the dynastic principle, it has given tickets to second-generation leaders such as Rahul Tiwari (son of party veteran Shivanand Tiwari), and Sudhakar Singh (son of RJD state president Jagadanand Singh). They will most probably fight the election from Shahpur and Ramgarh, respectively. The list of some other RJD candidates includes - Anita Devi from Nokha, W Singh from Navi Nagar, Surendra Yadav from Bela, Siddri Devi from Chakai, Sudha Yadav from Jehanabad. Bihar's ex-deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav-led party has also fielded Ramvishun Singh Lohia from Jagdishpur, Subedar Das from Makhdumpur, Ramdev Yadav from Belhar and Rajendra Yadav from Jhajha. Also read | Bihar Assembly election 2020: LJP chief Chirag Paswan asks voters 'don't vote for JD(U)' The schedule for holding the General Election to the State Legislative Assembly of Bihar 2020 was announced on September 25, 2020, and the poll is scheduled to be held in three phases in the state on October 28, November 3 and November 7. The votes will be counted on November 10. The last date of making a nomination for Phase-I (71 seats) is October 8, for Phase-II (94 seats) is October 16, and for Phase-III (78 seats) is October 20. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. The Defense Army of Artsakh targets only military objects, ARMENPRESS reports representative of the Defense Ministry of Armenia Artsrun Hovhannisyan said. The Azerbaijani armed forces started a massive bombardment of Artsakhs settlements. The Defense Army of Artsakh retaliates adequately, targeting exclusively military objects. In this context, all the accusations addressed to the Armenian side are disinformation, he said. Hovhannisyan added that during todays clashes the Azerbaijani troops have been repelled, suffering serious losses. Turkey-backed Azerbaijan unleashed war against Artsakh on September 27. Mercenaries and jihadists have been deployed by Turkey in Azerbaijan to fight against Armenians. The Azerbaijani armed forces target civilians and civilian infrastructures, killing dozens and causing great damage to the property. Azerbaijan targets also civilians in the Republic of Armenia. A civilian died as a result of a drone strike, and a bus was exploded (no one was inside). Another civilian was killed in the Republic of Armenia as a result of Azerbaijani shelling in Mets Masrik village. A Turkish F-16 fighter jet downed an Armenian SU-25 jet in the Armenian air space on September 29. The pilot could not survive. On October 5 the Defense Army of Artsakh in one of the most difficult sections of the frontline carried out tactical moves, particularly, made an illusion of withdrawal among Azerbaijani units. The adversary attempted to quickly occupy the positions left by Armenian forces, but appeared in a trap. Afterwards, a powerful artillery strike destroyed most of the unit. Leaving over 200 killed soldiers in the battlefield, the adversary fled in an unorganized way. Edited and translated by Tigran Sirekanyan A conscientious employee trying to stop a shoplifter from fleeing her Bayonne store with unpaid goods was assaulted Sunday morning, police said. The incident occurred at the C-Town supermarket on Broadway at 10:38 a.m., Capt. Eric Amato said. The victim was punched in the face several times, but she did need medical attention, Amato said. President Donald Trumps relationship to risk has often come down to an abiding self-belief: It will all probably work out for him because it generally has. Whatever happens, happens, he said in 1991, declaring himself a great fatalist as his business fortunes wobbled. Well see what happens, he said of North Korean nuclear diplomacy two years ago, blithely predicting that all would be fine. Risk plays a part in everything we do, he advised in one of his pre-presidential how-to books. I could get hit by a bus while I am crossing the street. Things happen. Yet the things that have happened this time a president who has consistently played down the dangers of a deadly virus joining the ranks of hospitalized patients in his high-risk demographic are nothing like the circumstances of Trumps past feats of political, financial and reputational survival. He is, instead, facing something almost entirely unfamiliar to him: genuine uncertainty and peril, a moment when the comforts of his office and surname can only take him so far. If anything, the toll of the virus, on Trump and his nation, has reinforced how little his life of chance-taking had prepared him for the cold math of infectious disease. In business, he has transcended consistent misfires with the risk-cushioning assistance of tax-avoidance schemes, bankruptcy court, his fathers riches and a manicured vision of televised success on The Apprentice. In politics, he has survived gambits that might have ended any modern presidency before his urging a foreign government to investigate a rival, questioning the valor of war heroes, equivocating on white supremacy because Republican allies have wagered that he is worth the trouble. But the pandemic could be neither browbeaten nor charmed. It is not impressed with his Nielsen ratings. It is not afraid of attack ads in a congressional primary. It does not comport with Trumps long-standing principle that to modulate, to adjust in the face of distressing information, is to acknowledge weakness. In a video released Saturday, Trump cast his departure from the White House as a kind of noble gamble not the upshot of health hazards but the mark of a leader fluent in cost-benefit analyses and willing to absorb the consequences. I cant be locked up in a room upstairs and totally safe and just say, Hey, whatever happens, happens, Trump said. I cant do that. The message was a functional extension of what supporters see as his swashbuckling political brand: a perpetual appeal to Americas inner dice-roller What do you have to lose? he has long asked his audiences requesting another four-year turn at the tables. In another video Sunday, Trump said he had learned a lot about COVID through his first-person experience. His next move seemed to undercut his claim: Moments after posting this clip to Twitter, Trump was seen waving to well-wishers from the back of an SUV outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, raising immediate questions about the wisdom of the stunt and the specter of exposure for those who helped him carry it out. As Trump continues his hospital stay and doctors weigh the risks of sending him home, possibly as soon as Monday, the prospective downsides of the presidents standard impulses are impossible to ignore: The most protected man in America appears to have squandered his personal safety advantages, at once a testament to his administrations failure to corral the virus and an encapsulation of Trumpian risk tolerance across the decades. Those who know Trump say that a lifetime of burden-shifting has hampered his capacity to assess legitimate threats. Worrying was for the unpaid contractors, the people without draft deferments. Worrying was for those who didnt know how to win. He believes that he is such a winner that there just isnt any way this could have felled him, Gwenda Blair, a biographer of the Trump family, said of the presidents maskless nonchalance in recent months. He wasnt, in his mind, running a risk because hes pushed all the risk off onto other people and the blame, if anything goes wrong. This instinct has informed his pandemic leadership from the start. He was eager to fault the Chinese, the Democratic governors, the news media. He insisted he had a plan but at times offered little more than suggestions for dubious medical treatments and casual assurances that everything would work out. January: Its going to be just fine. February: Its like a miracle it will disappear. March: Its something we have tremendous control of. The true course of the pandemic in the months that followed wholly contradicted Trump but rarely seemed to humble him. He hungered for the balm of adoring crowds at his rallies, so he brought them back against the advice of public health experts, accusing opponents of trying to COVID-shame us. He did not care for masks, so he did not usually wear masks, saying in May that he was very far away from everyone, so he would probably be OK. As recently as Tuesday, at the debate against Joe Biden, Trump taunted the Democratic nominee for being gratuitously careful, in his estimation. Every time you see him, hes got a mask, the president said. He could be speaking 200 feet away from me, and he shows up with the biggest mask Ive ever seen. Even Thursday, after the public revelation that a top aide, Hope Hicks, had tested positive for the virus, Trump took care not to betray too much concern, reverting to a favored phrase before his own results were announced: Well see what happens. More often than not, at least before the pandemic, the lesson for Trump seemed to have been that nothing particularly terrible would happen if he followed his gut. For as long as he has been a politician, it has felt, to supporters and opponents, as if he were getting away with something saying what you shouldnt say, doing what you shouldnt do and defying the template for political risk management. Some Republicans describe Trump as a kind of executive stuntman, trying motorcycle flips that he should probably avoid and hoping they land. For a lot of people, that causes admiration, said Carlos Curbelo, a Republican former congressman from Florida who clashed at times with Trump and did not support him four years ago, the way people would watch a daredevil. When harnessed appropriately, this approach can come off as distinctly American, projecting a sort of frontiersman attitude embedded in the idealized version of national swagger. This is America, Trump said in his video over the weekend, never quite completing his point. This is the United States. In his national stewardship during the pandemic, Trumps defenders have sensed not a reckless disregard for science but a cleareyed appraisal of pros and cons. They note that even those closely following medical guidelines can contract the virus. Robert Jeffress, the pastor of First Baptist Dallas and a prominent evangelical Trump supporter, said his church had followed the presidents example, reasoning that a full shutdown would be both 100% safe and devastating to the entire enterprise. We have to balance risk and reward, he said, adding that masks and distancing were encouraged at the church. I dont think people who are drawn to the president have a death wish. It is far from clear that Trumps own view of pandemic-era risks and rewards will change now that he is among the afflicted, especially given his drive-by outing Sunday. Earlier in the year, the ferocity of the virus appeared to resonate most with the president when events connected to him directly: his friend, Stanley Chera, falling ill and dying; his home borough of Queens suffering through scenes he had never seen before. But any tempering effect from these snapshots seemed brief. Even before his illness, the presidents unruly debate performance struck some viewers as the anxious tell of a flailing man whose sundry safety nets of power and providence might be falling away. I think weve been trending toward that point anyway, Mary Trump, his niece and a slashing critic, said in an interview. He knows theres things he cant control anymore. She added that Trump had long viewed sickness and other physical struggles as manifestations of weakness. An acute case of the virus, she suggested shortly before his hospitalization Friday, could expose him to a kind of pain hes never experienced before. This alone might prompt a reckoning for him, or at least a recollection. In a 2016 interview with The New York Times, Trump remembered the bleak final months of his mentor Roy Cohn, the infamous lawyer who died of AIDS in 1986. As the end neared, Trump maintained a cool distance and moved his cases elsewhere without telling Cohn why, rationalizing that there was no need to hurt the feelings of someone so weak by then. But at least one episode still ate at Trump three decades later: Cohns disbarment shortly before his death. They only got him because he was so sick, the future president said ruefully. They wouldnt have gotten him otherwise. Matt Flegenheimer c.2020 The New York Times Company (Natural News) As cities are burned to the ground by diversity mobs nationwide, federal officials have assured us that the real terror threat isnt the Black Lives Matter uprising that is unleashing an orgy of destruction. The real threat, according to our vaunted intelligence community, is evil white supremacists. (Article by Shane Trejo republished from BigLeaguePolitics.com) FBI Director Chris Wray has propagandized against white people for months, doing everything he can to make sure whites are demonized by the federal government. Within that racially-motivated violent extremism bucket, people ascribing to some kind of white supremacist-type ideology is certainly the biggest chunk of that, Wray told Democrats last week. We look at Antifa as more of an ideology or a movement than an organization, Wray added doing public relations for the violent left-wing terrorist group. Acting DHS Secretary Chad Wolf has echoed similar statements while addressing the Senate as well. White supremacist extremists, from a lethality standpoint over the last two years, particularly when you look at 2018 and 2019, are certainly the most persistent and lethal threat when we talk about domestic violent extremists, Wolf said. However, a close examination of the facts show that these deep state hacks are lying. They are relying on propaganda from left-wing thought control groups like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) instead of using the actual data to make their determinations. According to the Justice Department data from 2017 (long before the ongoing BLM anti-white riots started), black Americans are over-represented by 50 percent in the number of overall hate crimes committed. Meanwhile, whites are underrepresented by 24 percent. The results are consistent for other years as well, showing that it is blacks who are committing a disproportionate amount of hate crimes. Blacks also commit hate crimes at a rate that is three times higher than whites per 100,000 Americans, according to FBI crime data in 2016-2017. The SPLCs own data even shows that blacks are more than twice as likely to join a hate group. When it comes to domestic extremist terrorism, it is the same story. Blacks are once again far more likely to commit terrorist attacks than their white counterparts. According to homeland security data, blacks are yet again over-represented by 19.4 percent when committing domestic extremist attacks. Meanwhile, whites are underrepresented yet again by 32 percent. Despite making up just 13 percent of the population, blacks accounted for over 32 percent of domestic extremist attacks that occurred between 2015 and 2019. Over the same time period, whites only accounted for 29 percent of the domestic extremist attacks even though they made up 62 percent of the total population. The facts are clear: whites are statistically far less likely to commit domestic terrorism or engage in other violent racist activity than blacks. However, the feds still focus their efforts on white people while giving a pass to blacks who burn, loot and murder at epidemic rates in cities across the country. The reason why the feds refuse to focus their efforts on the actual threat is because of a successful lobbying campaign by the Radical Left. Monolithic bureaucracies like the FBI and DHS are tied at the hip to special interest groups like the ADL. The ADL is a seditious anti-white organization that hates the Bill of Rights and Constitution while lobbying for Big Brother censorship against Trump supporters. Big League Politics has reported on how lives are being destroyed because of the ADLs paranoid and neurotic campaigns to thwart internet memes: Days after the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) listed the OK hand gesture as a hate symbol in their database, an actor at Universal Studios Orlando was fired after it was discovered he had used the symbol in a group photo back in March. Tiffiney and Richard Zinger, after apparently reading the ADLs report, discovered that the symbol was used in their familys group photo at Universal. The biracial couple promptly rushed to the media, ginned up a controversy, and got the man fired as a result. Its more than the OK sign, Richard Zinger told USA Today. A lot of people dont understand what that sign means. We just wanted to take them to see the minions, Tiffiney Zinger said. Do something special for our family and this person ruined that special warm feeling. What they failed to mention to the press is that one of their children is also doing the innocuous symbol in the photograph. But that didnt stop them from initiating a witch hunt and getting the man fired anyway, while exploiting their undeserved limelight to virtue-signal about their righteousness. Ive been emotionally distraught about it. Im still pretty upset that someone felt they needed to do this to children, Tiffiney Zinger said. It can cause emotional stress on my child and her development. I just want somebody to take responsibility for it because nobody is taking responsibility for anything, Richard Zinger said. I want to cause change, Tiffiney Zinger said. I hope this doesnt happen to another family again, and I pray that this doesnt happen to another kid. Universal Studios Orlando, of course, jumped into action following these hysterics as America slumps further into idiocracy and madness. Groups like the ADL and SPLC should be barred from providing any more faulty intelligence to federal officials and weakening our national security. After that happens, they should lose their non-profit status and be booted from the country entirely for undermining American safety. Read more at: BigLeaguePolitics.com New Delhi, Oct 5 : Its an ocean as vast as the sub-continent whose name it bears, encompassing Asia to the north, Australia to the east and Africa to the west. With 20 per cent of the water on the Earths surface, the sea routes of the Indian Ocean carry 80 per cent of the worlds shipping trade in oil, connecting East Asia, the Middle East and Africa to Europe and the Americas -- and without New Delhi intending it so, could be the theatre of a new geopolitical rivalry between India and China. But then, as internationally acclaimed economist and urban theorist Sanjeev Sanyal puts it, "those who remember history will know that the Indian Ocean has seen the likes of Rajendra Chola and Zheng He before. They will also know to expect the unexpected", Sanyal writes in "The Incredible History Of The Indian Ocean" (Puffin), an adaptation for young readers of his seminal work, "The Ocean of Churn". "After all, no one who saw Zheng He's magnificent Treasure Fleet" of over 300 ships with almost 28,000 crewmen, "would have believed that, a few decades later, a small country in the Iberian Peninsula" (where Venetian trader Marco Polo had carried tales of Chinese magnificence) "would open the Indian Ocean to centuries of European domination", writes Sanyal, currently the Indian government's Principal Economic Advisor. The long history of the Indian Ocean, he writes, "is one where the unfolding of events is the result of complex interactions between myriad factors - the monsoon winds, geography, human migrations, technology, religion, culture, the deeds of individuals and, perhaps occasionally the whims of the gods. It followed no predetermined path or grand plan, but is the story of long cycles, dead ends and unintended consequences, of human triumphs and extraordinary bravery but also of treachery and inexplicable human cruelty. There are many shades of gray along the way". These shades of grey exist to this day. For instance, Djibouti on the Horn of Africa is the gateway to the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea --the entry and exit to the Suez Canal - and is home to major US and Chinese military bases, as also of France, Italy and Japan. It also overlooks Somalia, the hub of sea piracy in the region. How do these contradictions exist, is a question that strategic analysts often ask. "The complex adaptive nature of history is a warning that a linear narrative based on a unidimensional framework is necessarily misleading. A corollary is that the path of history flows neither from or to Utopia. Indeed, the attempts to 'civilise' others and impose utopias have been the source of much human misery and are almost always based on some unidimensional interpretation of history," Sanyal writes. It is also remarkable, the book says, "how continuities have remained through all these centuries of change. The monsoon winds may no longer dictate where ships can sail, but they are still important to the economic lives of hundreds of millions who depend on them for the annual rains. Some continuities run so deep that we hardly notice them. For instance, certain ancient cultural ideas continue to impact us to this day despite layers of later influences", it says. Detailing how matrilineal customs were an important aspect of history in the eastern but not in the western Indian Ocean rim, the book notes: "Perhaps this explains why we have seen so many females in Eastern Indian Ocean countries, including Corazon Aquino, Megawati Sukarnoputri, Aung San Suu Kyi, Indira Gandhi, Sheikh Hasina, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, to name a few." "If there is one lesson from this history, it is this: Time devours the greatest of men and the mightiest of empires," Sanyal concludes. It is this philosophy that resulted in the creation of the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the vision for which originated during a visit by late South African President Nelson Mandela to India in 1995, when he said that "the natural urge of the facts of history and geography should broaden itself to include the concept of an Indian Ocean rim for socio-economic cooperation..." that has within its ambit 22 Member States and 10 Dialogue Partners. Supplementing this is the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue informal strategic forum comprising India, the US, Australia and Japan, whose senior officials at their most recent virtual meeting on September 25, exchanged "views on ongoing and proposed practical cooperation in the areas of connectivity and infrastructure development, and security matters, including counter-terrorism, cyber and maritime security, with the objective of promoting peace, security, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region", India's External Affairs Ministry said. This is Sanyal's second adaptation for young readers after "The Incredible History of India's Geography" based on his bestselling "Land of the Seven Rivers". With illustrations by Nikhil Gulati superbly complementing the text, the book, through its 11 chapters, weaves its way from "The Birth of the Indian Ocean" through "Dynasties, Invasions and Shipwrecks", "Treasure on the Other Side of the World", "In Search of Spices", and "This Land Is Our Land", et al, to "From Dusk to a New Dawn" to unfold a canvas that is breathtaking in its scope. It's definitely a must-read. (Vishnu Makhijani can be reached at vishnu.makhijani@ians.in) Thomas Jefferson Byrd, a Tony-nominated actor also known for roles in various Spike Lee films, was found shot to death on an Atlanta street, authorities said Sunday. Byrd, 70, was found unresponsive by Atlanta police officers, who responded to a call about an injured person at 1:45 a.m. Saturday, said Anthony Grant, a spokesperson for the police. Byrd was pronounced dead of multiple gunshot wounds to the back, Grant said. Craig Wyckoff, Byrds friend and former representative, said Sunday that he had spoken with a circle of friends who said that Byrd had gotten into an argument with someone at a store and that that person must have followed him home. The police said the case was under investigation and declined to confirm that account. In a series of posts to Instagram, Lee said he was So Sad to Announce The Tragic Murder Of Our Beloved Brother and highlighted Byrds roles in films like Clockers (1995), Chi-Raq (2015) and Bamboozled (2000). Rest In Peace Brother Byrd, Lee wrote. Byrd also appeared in the 1996 film Set It Off and was nominated for a 2003 Tony Award for his role in a Broadway revival of Ma Raineys Black Bottom, by August Wilson. (A television adaptation is coming to Netflix, starring Viola Davis and Chadwick Boseman, who died in August.) Loved working with you Byrd, Davis wrote in a tweet Sunday. What a fine actor you were. So sorry your life ended this way. A review of Ma Raineys Black Bottom in Variety in 2003 hailed Byrd as a singular pleasure in the role of Toledo, the verbally fastidious piano player who dispenses nuggets of African history and homegrown philosophy. The prim set of Byrds mouth and the expressive gymnastics of his eyebrows gently accent Toledos more pompous asides, the reviewer, Charles Isherwood, wrote, but he brings the right measure of natural gravity to Toledos more painfully authentic ruminations. Wyckoff said that in recent years, Byrd had started teaching acting as he tried to get his personal life together after a set of personal struggles. Nasser Metcalfe, an actor and a friend of Byrds, said he had been struck by his humility. At a showing of Clockers at a theatre in Atlanta before the two met, both actors were in the audience. It wasnt a screening, Metcalfe said, just the 8 oclock showing at the local multiplex. When the film ended, some of the people who had been sitting near Byrd stood up and applauded him. Byrd very humbly accepted their praise but did not want the spotlight on himself. He appreciated the love, but he didnt necessarily want to be the centre of attention, Metcalfe said in a phone call Sunday. In an upcoming film, Freedoms Path, about the Underground Railroad, Byrd plays the role of Abner, a father figure to a group of former slaves. Information about Byrds survivors was not immediately available. He was born in Florida and raised in Georgia, Metcalfe said. Byrd graduated from Morris Brown College, a historically Black liberal arts college in Atlanta, with a degree in education. He then attained a master of fine arts in dance from the California Institute of the Arts. Although Byrd often performed as characters who were rough around the edges Lee highlighted his role as The Frightening Character Errol Barnes In CLOCKERS he was the opposite of how he looked, Wyckoff said, and the opposite of what he played. Later in his life, Byrd became more introspective, Metcalfe said. He was on a path of spiritual self discovery, so to speak, more so than trying to book the next job, he said. But, Metcalfe said, whenever Spike called, he was there. When the two first met at an Atlanta restaurant where Metcalfe was working, Byrd advised him to just focus on your craft. In the early 2000s, when Byrd moved to New York for his role on Broadway, the actors lived two blocks from each other in Harlem. They would read through scripts together, he said. There was no limit to his generosity, Metcalfe said. Thats who the man was. SANTA ROSA, Calif., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- CannaCraft, announced today the relaunch of its popular wellness brand, Care By Design, with more cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Available in tinctures, soft gels, gummy bites, vape cartridges and pain cream, the enhanced formulations offer the widest array of ratios and the highest cannabinoid content on the market, including a new 40:1 Ratio of CBD to THC for those seeking strong CBD relief and the benefits of full-spectrum cannabis without the intoxicating effects. "We reformulated Care By Design to offer a more robust product at the same price to provide customers extra relief during these stressful times," said Jim Hourigan, CannaCraft Chief Executive. Adding "the additional ingredients harness the full power of the plant and aid cannabis' entourage effect at no additional cost to our customers." The refreshed Care By Design line starts with full-spectrum winterized cannabis oil as the base and is enhanced with minor cannabinoids, cannabis terpenes, and flavonoids. The company recently introduced a dual-processing method to capture more components, most notably CBDA and THCA, two non-intoxicating minor cannabinoids with promising potential. "Improving the existing formulations presented some unique challenges," explains Dr. Matthew Elmes, Care By Design's Director of New Product Development. "In order to capture more delicate plant elements, we have to take extra care during extraction and post processing so that we are able to preserve a wider array of compounds that would otherwise be destroyed or decarboxylated during the process." Efforts to increase CBD content also required an overhaul of the formulations to maintain the line's signature ratios. The original formulations featured a simple ratio of CBD:THC, whereas the new Care By Design's ratios consist of (CBD+CBDA):(THC+THCA). The inclusion of cannabinoid acids THCa and CBDa is based on preliminary research showing potentially additive or synergistic effects of these minor cannabinoids when combined with neutral cannabinoids like THC and CBD. The reformulated tinctures are available in a new 30ml value size, and the entire line of 36 products across six ratios and five product forms can be found at hundreds of licensed dispensaries around California. Care By Design, a wholly-owned CannaCraft brand, triple-tests all products for purity, consistency, and potency. About Care By Design Care By Design is a wellness company with deep roots. Founded in 2014, Care By Design earned its success through operating with the highest integrity and making innovative products with unparalleled efficacy. Intent on harnessing the full power of cannabis, Care By Design pioneered CBD to THC ratios that deliver powerful relief, cultivated by science. Their hemp products are available nationwide while their cannabis products are available in licensed dispensaries throughout California and Colorado. Backed by a team of expert cultivators, in-house scientists and caregivers, Care By Design exists to radically improve the lives of individuals and raise the wellbeing of our communities. Learn more at www.CBD.org . Additional Information Kial Long, VP Corporate Communications | CannaCraft, Inc. [email protected] Jim Walsh | Coppertop Media Relations [email protected] SOURCE CannaCraft Related Links https://cannacraft.com MBABANE Following a judgment to repay a man his lobola for marrying a non-virgin woman, social media has been abuzz over the topic. Judge Mumcy Dlamini issued a court ruling last week where she ordered a woman and her mother to return a herd of nine cattle to a man she (woman) was married to. The man took the duo to court as he wanted cattle he had paid as lobola to be returned after he discovered that the woman he had married lied that she was a virgin. Members of the public had mixed feelings on the matter as some were strongly of the view that the man was right while others questioned what it was the man was paying lobola for exactly. Some were of the view that paying bride price was for kwakha buhlobo (building strong bonds) and not the state a woman was in at that point. Expenses One social media user was of the view that the money or cattle paid as lobola was then used to pay for some of the expenses including those of gifts shared on the second day of the wedding (umhlambiso). He stated that it was for that reason that the lobola was for strengthening bonds. Others were arguing whether it was discussed before as they alleged that other couples didnt discuss important issues, including that of children until they were already married. It depends if they engaged each other on the topic or not, but it is important to disclose before even being asked about it so that its clear, said one user. Other social media users were of a different view as they felt the man was right. They argued that other women were dishonest. One of them even made an example of makeup, which they alleged sometimes made it difficult to identify the true being of a woman. When going for marriage counselling, such topics are discussed and the counsellor asks couples if they want to go for testing, wrote another user. Two elderly people from Shiselweni and Hhohho regions were also engaged on the topic to get their views. Mkhulu Gayiza Dlamini, who is 87 years old from Mbilaneni in Nhlangano, stated that the lobola was meant to pay for intfombi (a young girl) to be a wife to someone. A British man has been sentenced to four years of jail after piercing holes in condoms and breaching privacy" of his partner. 47-year-old Andrew Lewis was caught by his partner after she found a pin alongside condoms in her drawer. To be more sure about it, she even checked her dustbin only to find out that the used condom was pierced too. Following a complaint, Lewis told the prosecutor that he had hoped that a pierced condom will split and improve the intimacy" during the sexual intercourse, as reported by New York Post. Although he admitted to have done the stupidest thing ever", he assured that he had no intention of impregnating his partner. According to The Sun, the incident took place in March 2018 and Lewis has been charged with rape in a July hearing, and has been put behind the bars. His partner described the act, pure evil". Although it was a consensual act, however, the women claimed the consent was based on the terms of protected sexual intercourse. Lewis hoped that his partner would change her mind given he wore protection. Few days back, the police in Vietnam confiscated an estimated 345,000 used condoms which had been cleaned and resold as new. Footage broadcast by state-owned Vietnam Television (VTV) this week showed dozens of large bags containing the used contraceptives scattered across the floor of a warehouse in the southern province of Binh Duong. Police said the bags weighed over 360 kilograms (794 lbs), equivalent to 345,000 condoms, according to VTV. The owner of the warehouse said they had received a monthly input of used condoms from an unknown person". A woman detained during the bust told police that the used prophylactics were first boiled in water then dried and reshaped on a wooden phallus before being repackaged and resold. It is still unclear how many such reused condoms have been resold in the market. A security officer stands outside a building of Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC) during its grand opening in Shanghai, China, on Nov. 22, 2001. (Reuters) SMIC Shares Fall as Chinese Chipmaker Warns About US Restrictions Chinas biggest contract chipmaker SMIC saw its shares plunge by more than 4.5 percent on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKSE) on Oct. 5, one day after the company acknowledged that it was now facing U.S. export restrictions. Shares of Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp. took a nosedive immediately after the HKSE opened on Monday, dropping more than 6 percent to reach HK$16.88 ($2.18) about an hour after trading started. The shares eventually clawed back to close at HK$17.28 ($2.23) at the end of trading day. The Shanghai Stock Exchange, where SMICs shares are also traded, was closed on Monday due to Chinas eight-day-long National Day holiday. On Sunday evening, SMIC issued a statement saying that it has had preliminary exchanges with the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) about export restrictions the company now faces, and will also actively communicate with relevant U.S. government departments. SMIC explained that it learned it was being blacklisted after holding talks with its U.S. suppliers. The Chinese chipmaker added it was evaluating the impact of the export restrictions, adding that they could have adverse effects on its future production and operations. The BIS, which is under the U.S. Department of Commerce, issued a letter dated Sept. 25 to U.S. companies, alerting them that exports to SMIC pose unacceptable risk of being diverted to military end-use, and companies must obtain a U.S. government license before they can export to the Chinese chipmaker again. At the time, SMIC said it had not received any official notice of export restrictions. The commerce department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on current discussions with SMIC. In 2017, Beijing established a government agency called the Central Commission for the Development of Military-Civil Fusion to oversee cooperation between the military and private industry to advance technology innovations. Chinas efforts to leverage this cooperation has been targeted by the Trump administration. The CCP is implementing this strategy, not just through its own research and development efforts, but also by acquiring and diverting the worlds cutting-edge technologiesincluding through theftin order to achieve military dominance, the U.S. State Department describes on its website. Chinas hawkish state-run media Global Times, in an article published after SMICs statement, estimated that SMIC had enough inventory to sustain its production for six months, citing a local technology expert named Xiang Ligang. Xiang said that SMICs client, Chinese tech giant Huawei, could also be affected by the export restrictions, as Huawei is SMICs biggest client. Citing unnamed analysts, the Global Times accused the Trump administration of using the sanctions against SMIC as a desperate move to score political points ahead of the November election. The U.S. export restrictions perhaps did not come as a surprise to the Chinese chipmaker. On Sept. 30, Japanese media Nikkei Asian Review reported that the Chinese chipmaker had been stocking up on production equipment and crucial replacement parts to head off any potential U.S. export restrictions, citing unnamed sources. An unnamed U.S. chip equipment maker told Nikkei that it shipped some machines to SMIC this year, and that the firm ordered more machines than it needed for its current expansion plans. Implications The U.S. export restrictions potentially have far-reaching consequences for SMIC, its suppliers, and its clients. Given SMICs leadership position in the Chinese foundry industry, the latest sanction, which poses a significant risk of cutting off SMICs upstream supply chain of semiconductor equipment and raw materials, will likely cause considerable damage to the foundrys R&D of advanced process technologies and Chinas efforts at semiconductor independence, analyzed Taiwan-based market research firm TrendForce in a statement issued on Monday. Beijing announced through its industrial policy of Made in China 2025 that it seeks to domestically produce 70 percent of its semiconductor needs by 2025. However, China is currently heavily dependent on foreign semiconductor chips, which are used in everything from computers and cellphones to missiles and fighter jets. TrendForce predicted that the U.S. sanctions could force SMIC to slow down its production expansion plans for its mature chipmaking technologies (28 nanometers and above), and research and development for advanced chipmaking technologies (14 nanometers and below). As chips reduce in size on the nanometer scale, they become more powerful and advanced. For example, Apple announced in mid-September that its new iPad Air tablets will be equipped with an A14 Bionic chip, which is made with advanced 5-nm process technology. Apples previous-generation chip, A13 Bionic, is made with 7-nm process technology. According to Taiwanese media, Taiwan-based TSMC, the worlds largest contract chipmaker, produces the powerful A14 chip. In May, TSMC announced plans to invest $12 billion to build a factory with its 5-nm processing technology in Arizona. TrendForce also predicted that U.S.-based suppliers of chipmaking equipment, such as Applied Materials, Lam Research, and KLA, would bear the brunt of the impactas the machines contain U.S.-originated components and thus, would be subject to the sanctions. Meanwhile, SMIC would not be able to find Chinese alternatives. Within the next five to ten years, semiconductor equipment suppliers in China are highly unlikely to be able to provide semiconductor equipment covering all aspects of the manufacturing process, TrendForce stated. There are also other imminent troubles for SMIC. TrendForce said that SMICs non-Chinese clientssuch as South Korea-based Samsung and Taiwan-based UMC, Vanguard, and TSMCmight move their orders elsewhere, anticipating that SMIC would not be able to obtain the necessary equipment or materials to produce, and thus be unable to fulfill their orders. TrendForce said that Apple, which has been sourcing memory chips from Chinese memory designer GigaDevice for its wireless headphones AirPods, might need to direct its memory orders to Taiwan-based companies such as Winbond and Macronix, since GigaDevice has relied on SMIC to make the chips. The export restrictions would have less of an impact for SMIC in terms of obtaining silicon wafers, which are the base that chips are built on, and other raw chemicals for semiconductors, said TrendForce based on its analysis, since these items are mostly supplied by Japanese and European companies. Also on Monday, Taiwans government-run Central News Agency reported that many Chinese IC (integrated circuit) designers could also be affected by the U.S. restrictions, citing an investment report. The report noted that Shanghai-based Will Semiconductor could potentially transfer some of its orders for making CMOS Image Sensor (CIS) chips from SMIC to TSMC. CIS chips are used in digital cameras to convert light into a digital image. One person was killed and five others injured after an argument between two women escalated into a shooting at a convenience store in Atlanta. A 19-year-old man died in the shooting at Star Discount Food while the wounded victims included two juveniles, one of whom was said to be in a critical condition. According to Fox5 Atlanta, the dispute broke out in the store before an 'exchange of gunfire across the street' when two people fled across the road. No arrests have been made, while all the injured people are being treated by hospital medics. Police on the scene of a shooting in Atlanta on Sunday in which one person was killed and five others injured, including two juveniles The gunfire broke out after a 'dispute' between two women at a convenience store escalated into shooting, according to police 'There was a dispute that broke out at the store between two females,' Atlanta Police Lt. Pete Malecki told reporters last night. 'Approximately ten minutes later a red Dodge pulled up. At least three occupants existed that vehicle and went inside the store armed with firearms. 'Those males did begin shooting inside the store... at some point, we know citizens inside the store did return fire.' Police were called at around 4pm on Sunday to reports of gunfire both inside and outside the building. Four of the injured people were found at the store, while the other two were discovered in nearby streets, according to AJC. The dispute broke out in the store before an 'exchange of gunfire across the street' when two people fled across the road Police were called at around 4pm on Sunday to reports of gunfire both inside and outside the building While all the wounded victims were breathing at the time they were found, one of them later died from his injuries, police said. The red car was later recovered by police before investigators combed the scene for evidence and surveillance footage inside and outside the store. Police say they have two witnesses, adding that some of the injured people may be suspects in the case. One woman was briefly detained but then released without charge, with a $2,000 reward available for tipsters. Boohoo's biggest shareholders have been urged to oust the fashion giant's billionaire chairman after a report found sweatshop conditions across its Leicester supply chain. In a letter to Jupiter, Invesco and Baillie Gifford, shadow health minister Liz Kendall said investors must remove Mahmud Kamani and chief executive John Lyttle for 'allowing these appalling failures to take place'. The plea came after investigators led by Alison Levitt QC revealed 'excessive' hours, life-threatening conditions and illegally low pay across much of the supply chain. In the firing line: Shadow health minister Liz Kendall said investors must remove Mahmud Kamani (pictured) and John Lyttle Boohoo knew how bad the situation was in December 2019, the report found, but months later Kamani dismissed concerns as 'another lot of b******s'. The board did not report possible criminal activity to police, and Lyttle was accused of seeking to frustrate Levitt's inquiry. Kendall, Labour MP for Leicester West, said: 'I am calling on you and Boohoo's other shareholders to demand a new chair and chief executive to lead the changes the company and the people of Leicester desperately need. 'It would make a mockery of any claims to support responsible investing if the same executives who allowed these appalling failures to take place, despite repeated warnings over many years, were kept in place.' Her comments follow those from other Leicestershire MPs Claudia Webbe, Jonathan Ashworth and Conservative Andrew Bridgen calling for a shake-up. Kamani and co-founder Carol Kane could each net a 50m bonus if Boohoo's market capitalisation hits 7.5billion by June 2023. Last night shares closed at 355.3p, valuing it at 4.4billion. The row over sweatshop conditions erupted in July after reports alleged Boohoo's factories were failing to follow social distancing and paying staff as little as 3.50 an hour. To halt its collapsing share price, Boohoo ordered the independent investigation be undertaken. It is suspected Kamani 'covertly owns or controls many of the factories [in Leicester]', the report said, though the chain denies this. Peter Williams, chairman between 2014 and 2019, said that buyers felt they had to 'almost screw these people to the floor' to please Kamani. Boohoo accepted all of the recommendations in the report, which accepted that Boohoo did not deliberately allow poor conditions within its supply chain. Phuket officials silent on impending arrival of Chinese tourists PHUKET: Phuket officials today (Oct 5) would neither confirm or deny whether the first tourists to enter the country would land at Phuket International Airport this Thursday (Oct 8), as announced by Minister of Tourism and Sports Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn just last week. COVID-19Coronavirustourismeconomics By The Phuket News Monday 5 October 2020, 06:13PM Tourism and Sports Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn speaking to the press in Bangkok last Thursday (Oct 1). Photo: NNT Speaking to the press in Bangkok last Thursday (Oct 1), Minister Phiphat confirmed that a group of 150 Chinese nationals, all entering the country on the new Special Tourist Visa (STV), will be the first foreign tourists allowed into Thailand on a chartered flight under the conditional entry scheme for selected groups of foreigners, endorsed by the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA). Mr Phipat explained the group will fly directly to Phuket on a chartered Air Asia flight, adding that another, smaller, group of seven Chinese businessmen will arrive at Suvarnabhumi International Airport on a private jet on the same day, reported state news agency NNT, operated by the Public Relations Department of Thailand. However, a report by the respected Thai-language business journal Thansettakij posted yesterday (Oct 4) explained that the first tourists to arrive in Phuket would most likely arrive before Oct 20 as the tourists entry to the country had been delayed by many points in the process. The report did not give a source for its new deadline for the arrival of the Chinese tourists, but did note that the arrivals would actually be business travellers entering the country under tours organised by Thailand Longstay Company, a commercial enterprise established in 2001 with the endorsement of the Thai Royal Government to support long stay tourism, with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) as a major shareholder of the company. The Thansettakij report also noted that the chartered flight to bring the tourists was being organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew was unavailable to receive calls from The Phuket News today, and Bussaya Chaipeum, Chief of the Phuket Public Relations Office, declined to provide any comment on the alleged delay in tourists arriving in Phuket. Please wait until Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew talks about it, Ms Bussaya said. Phuket Public Health Office (PPHO) Chief Dr Thanit Sermkaew, who sits on the Phuket Provincial Communicable Disease Committee, the top administrative authority instituting all regulations regarding COVID-19 preventative measures since the lockdown began six months ago, also declined to comment. Jaroon Kaewmukdakul, Director of the Phuket office of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, also declined to comment. I do not have any information about it, he said. Phuket Governor Narong, PPHO Chief Dr Thanit and Phuket International Airport General Manager Thanee Chuangchoo were all present for a demonstration test of the laboratory and tourist-arrival procedures at the airport last Wednesday (Sept 30). The approval of the test laboratory at the airport is considered the last hurdle before Phuket can be finally cleared by the Center for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) in Bangkok to welcome international tourists once again. At that event, Governor Narong made it clear that he had yet to be officially informed that the first tourists to arrive on the island since the COVID-19 lockdown began would be 120 tourists arriving on a flight from Guangzhou, China, touching down at Phuket International Airport this Thursday (Oct 8). I have not received any official information from the CCSA yet, but I have already seen the news in the media, he said. The Phuket Government will follow the orders of the CCSA strictly, as they were approved by many officials before, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Interior, Governor Narong assured. Stocks to watch today: Here is a list of top stocks that are likely to be in focus in Monday's trading session based on latest developments. Investors are also awaiting April-June quarter earnings that are scheduled to be released today. Share Market News Live: Sensex rises 250 points, Nifty at 11,490; TCS, HCL Tech, Maruti top performers Angel Broking: Shares of Angel Broking which recently concluded its Rs 600-crore initial public offer will list on the bourses on Monday. Reliance Industries: Company announced that Mubadala Investment, the Abu Dhabi-based sovereign investor company will invest Rs 6,247.5 crore into its subsidiary Reliance Retail Ventures. TCS: The company will consider share buyback on October 7 along with Q2 earnings. NMDC: The September production came in at 1.83 MT v/s 1.64 MT, while sales were at 2.11 MT v/s 1.91 MT. Federal Bank: The lender's deposits rose 12.3% YoY to Rs 1,56,747 crore in September. Laurus Labs: The pharma company announced the merger of two foreign subsidiaries of the company. Panacea Biotec: The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) has issued a warning letter to Panacea Biotec for violating current good manufacturing practice norms at its Baddi plant in Himachal Pradesh. Dr Reddy's Labs: The pharma company announced the launch of a generic version of Sapropterin Dihydrochloride Tablets for oral use in the US market. Cadila Healthcare: Drug firm Zydus Healthcare on Sunday said it has launched generic anti-diabetic Dapagliflozin tablets across the country under the brand name 'Dapaglyn' Havells: The company has decided to shift its switchgears production capacity from Guwahati location to its existing facilities at Baddi location. PNC Infratech: The company has received a Letter of Award (LoA) for the project 'Construction of Haraulipur for 10 years' for a value of Rs 289.83 crore. Future Enterprises: CARE downgraded rating on NCD issue to 'D' on account of default in payment of NCD interest. Route Mobile: The company completed the acquisition of primarily intellectual property (software) and associated identified customer contracts (business) of TeleDNA Communications. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Padraic Halpin (Reuters) Dublin Mon, October 5, 2020 09:00 475 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c491c03a 2 World COVID-19,Dublin,Irish-community,Lockdown-Town,coronavirus-effect,Europe Free Ireland's health chiefs recommended to the government on Sunday that the country enter a second nationwide lockdown for four weeks in a surprise move that cabinet will discuss on Monday, two government sources said. Ireland's National Public Health Emergency Team recommended a leap to the highest level of COVID-19 restrictions, Level 5, from current Level 2 controls in 24 of Ireland's 26 counties and stricter Level 3 measures in Dublin and Donegal. The government has almost entirely adopted their health chiefs' advice throughout the pandemic, but one of the sources said a return to lockdown would have a serious economic and societal impact. Prime Minister Micheal Martin and the leaders of his two coalition partners will meet the country's chief medical officer on Monday ahead of a cabinet meeting to discuss the recommendations. Under level 5, people are asked to stay at home, except to exercise within 5 kilometers, with only essential retailers allowed to stay open. Unlike the first lockdown, schools and creches would not have to close. A spokesperson for the health department was not immediately available for comment on the advice. Like most of Europe, Ireland has seen a steady increase in infections since the end of July after emerging slowly from one of Europe's most severe shutdowns. It reported the highest number of daily cases since late April on Saturday. However Ireland's 14-day cumulative case total of 104.6 per 100,000 people represents only the 14th-highest infection rate out of 31 European countries monitored by the European Center for Disease Control. Europe's worst infection hotspot Spain has an infection rate three-times higher than Ireland and while it severely tightened confinement measures in hard-hit Madrid on Friday, restaurants, gyms and shops can still open at limited capacity. Ireland has a relatively low hospital bed capacity compared to other European countries. The number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients has risen steadily to 132, but peaked at 881 in April during the first lockdown. Ireland's main business lobby, Ibec, reacted with dismay, calling for the evidence underpinning the advice to be published. "It is intolerable that after six months we are still receiving both vague and changing criteria to advance such serious restrictions," Ibec chief executive Danny McCoy said in a statement. CHICAGO, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- CTEK Sweden AB, a leading global brand in battery management solutions, today urges motorists to give love to the humble battery this 'Charge Your Car Day'. Since the COVID-19 pandemic was first announced, roads around the world have experienced ever-changing traffic conditions, and fluctuating driving habits are bringing car battery health to the fore. As many people around the world have been home-bound under COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, various cities have experienced surges in dead car battery cases. This is because car batteries become far more likely to die the less frequently the car is driven or charged. Conversely, for those locations where self-isolation restrictions have been eased, and consumers are more regularly leaving home, many are choosing to travel in their private vehicles, as opposed to public transport, due to personal safety concerns. Those taking regular short road journeys, particularly in urban areas, are at heightened risk of experiencing a dead battery, because these trips can often involve frequent stopping and starting of the engine, putting immense pressure on the vehicle battery and requiring it to work harder. To help educate motorists on the important role the car battery plays and simple steps for ensuring it won't let you down, CTEK is today celebrating 'Charge Your Car Day', a global celebration every October 5th of the humble-but-hardworking car battery. Whether your vehicle is fuel-powered, hybrid or electric, the battery is the beating heart of your car, and as such requires love to keep it working to the best of its ability. Bobbie DuMelle, EVP, CTEK North America, said" "It's easy to overlook the humble car battery, which has worked hard for us for the past 100 years. For decades, a car battery's only responsibility was to start the car moving. Advances in technology mean that's all changed. Today, in addition to getting the car moving, the battery powers all of the technology within the vehicle - from keyless entry adjustable seats to navigation, braking systems, and air conditioning. And that's just on fuel-powered vehicles! The battery in an electric vehicle is critical for every facet of the car's functioning. "We rely so much on our car battery, but it's easy to forget just how much hard work it does. 'Charge Your Car Day' is a great opportunity to remind us of the importance of caring for our car battery. Making sure your battery is charged and giving it extra care can extend its life, which saves drivers valuable time and money," explained DuMelle. Caring for your battery is simple and can be easily integrated into your regular routine. To help us make sure our batteries are always in peak condition, CTEK has developed some top tips for car owners amid current driving trends around the world: Money saver: Battery failure is often reported as the number one cause for breakdowns around the world, and with a growing amount of sensitive electronic equipment added to today's modern cars, this issue is on the rise. Utilizing battery chargers can help you save time, battery costs, towing costs, repair costs, and the environment through regular battery maintenance. Battery failure is often reported as the number one cause for breakdowns around the world, and with a growing amount of sensitive electronic equipment added to today's modern cars, this issue is on the rise. Utilizing battery chargers can help you save time, battery costs, towing costs, repair costs, and the environment through regular battery maintenance. Regular charging: At least once a month while your car is parked in the garage, reach for your battery charger, connect it up and leave it do its work quickly, safely and efficiently. If you have an electric vehicle, it's recommended you follow the ABC rule Always Be Charging. At least once a month while your car is parked in the garage, reach for your battery charger, connect it up and leave it do its work quickly, safely and efficiently. If you have an electric vehicle, it's recommended you follow the ABC rule Always Be Charging. TLC: Caring for your battery after it's charged is just as important as charging it in the first place. Today's modern chargers will almost certainly have built-in maintenance and troubleshooting programs most of them automatic that will make sure your car battery has a healthy heart. Caring for your battery after it's charged is just as important as charging it in the first place. Today's modern chargers will almost certainly have built-in maintenance and troubleshooting programs most of them automatic that will make sure your car battery has a healthy heart. Temperature aware: Battery performance can be reduced by as much as 35 per cent when temperatures hit freezing, and by as much as half when the temperatures go even lower. Conversely, heat is also the number one killer of car batteries. Motorists should be extra cautious in extreme temperatures, being sensitive to any vehicle changes such as the way your car starts, or the operation of the electrical system in general. Any changes can indicate a weak battery or problems in the electrical system. DuMelle added: "Proper charging extends battery life significantly because our car batteries performs best when they're in peak condition. Regular charging is a simple, quick process for car owners, and by reducing your possibility of breakdowns due to battery failure, you're saving money." For further information on 'Charge Your Car Day' and advice for drivers, please visit www.chargeyourcarday.com Click here to find out more about CTEK Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1294898/CTEK_Logo.jpg PRESS ENQUIRIES Katharine Parker PR & Communication Manager Tel: +44 (0)7974 141266 E-mail: [email protected] SOURCE CTEK Related Links https://www.ctek.com/uk/charge-your-car-day The number of COVID-19 infections across the country have been rising steadily since mid-September and are now averaging around 42,600 per day Deaths are still trending downwards nationally with an average of 700 Americans each day Nine states have reported record increases in COVID-19 cases in the last week Kentucky, Minnesota, Montana and Wisconsin all saw record increases in new cases on Saturday alone Kansas, Nebraska, New Hampshire, South Dakota and Wyoming also set new records for cases last week New York is one of only 18 states where cases have not risen greatly over the past two weeks New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, however, is shutting down non-essential businesses in nine neighborhoods due to a spike in cases Coronavirus cases across the United States are continuing to rise with an average of 42,600 new infections per day - as nine states report record increases in the number of cases over the last week. The number of infections across the country have been rising steadily since mid-September. ADVERTISEMENT There were about 35,500 cases reported on Sunday, which is below average due to a lag in weekend data reporting. Deaths are still trending downwards nationally with an average of 700 Americans each day. Fatalities are a lagging indicator and can rise several weeks after cases increase. Nearly 210,000 Americans have now died from coronavirus and there have been 7.4 million confirmed infections nationwide. The number of COVID-19 infections across the country have been rising steadily since mid-September and are averaging around 42,600 per day Deaths are still trending downwards nationally with an average of 700 Americans each day. Fatalities are a lagging indicator and can rise several weeks after cases increase Nine states have reported record increases in COVID-19 cases in the last week - mostly in the Midwest and West where colder weather has already set in, according to a Reuters analysis. Kentucky, Minnesota, Montana and Wisconsin all saw record increases in new cases on Saturday alone. Kansas, Nebraska, New Hampshire, South Dakota and Wyoming also set new records for cases last week. Montana has reported record numbers of new cases for three out of the last four days and also has a record number of COVID-19 patients in its hospitals. Wisconsin has set records for new cases two out of the last three days and also reported record hospitalizations on Saturday. On average 22 percent of tests are coming back positive, one of the highest rates in the country. North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin have the highest new cases per capita in the country. Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson is one of several prominent Republicans who have tested positive for coronavirus since President Donald Trump announced last week that he had contracted the virus. Kentucky is the first southern state to report a record increase in cases in several weeks. ADVERTISEMENT Governor Andy Beshear said last week was the highest number of cases the state has seen since the pandemic started. State health experts have not pinpointed the reason for the rise but point to fatigue with COVID-19 precautions and students returning to schools and colleges. Over the last two weeks, Kentucky has reported nearly 11,000 new cases and has seen hospitalizations of COVID-19 patients rise by 20 percent. New York is one of only 18 states where cases have not risen greatly over the past two weeks. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, however, said on Sunday that he is moving to shut non-essential businesses and schools in nine neighborhoods starting on Wednesday due to a spike in positivity rates. The lockdown would require the governor's approval. While NYC's positivity rates remain low compared to other major cities across the country, de Blasio said the uptick was concerning. Prior to the recent uptick in NYC, the positivity rate - which is the proportion of positive results out of the total number of tests performed - had long hovered around one percent. The positivity rate in those hotspot neighborhoods, which are in Brooklyn and Queens, is as high as eight percent. The uptick in cases nationwide comes as President Trump continues to be treated in hospital for COVID-19. Over the weekend, Trump released several video addresses in which he promised he was in good health despite his diagnosis and the White House shared photographs of him working at the hospital. ADVERTISEMENT He claims to have been meeting some of the wounded veterans who are also being treated in the hospital. Click here to resize this module On Sunday night, he made a surprise appearance outside the hospital to thank fans who had turned out with signs, flags and banners wishing him a speedy recovery. Trump said he was touched by the outpouring of support and wanted to show his appreciation. But doctors - including one from Walter Reed - say it was irresponsible of him to get into the Presidential SUV with Secret Service agents and risk infecting them. Dr James Phillips, a Walter Reed attending doctor, condemned the president's Sunday afternoon drive, which violated Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines. He said it was dangerous and reckless, in comments which quickly went viral. New York is one of only 18 states where cases have not risen greatly over the past two weeks. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, however, said on Sunday that he is moving to shut non-essential businesses and schools in nine neighborhoods starting on Wednesday due to a spike in positivity rates PARIS The worlds largest travel-retail and e-commerce operators, Dufry Group and Alibaba Group, have agreed to join forces to form a strategic joint venture in China. Simultaneously, Alibaba plans to make up to a 9.99 percent investment in Dufry. We highly value this partnership with Alibaba Group to for a strategic joint venture to explore growth opportunities and develop the travel-retail business in China, Julian Diaz, Dufry Group chief executive officer, said in a statement on Monday. We expect this collaboration to drive growth in Asia and with the Chinese customers worldwide with the support of new digital technologies. More from WWD Travel retail has been the channel hardest hit by the coronavirus pandemic, as people were confined to their homes, flights were grounded and airports closed for months. What had been a channel posting double-digit gains in many parts of the world, driven by the Chinese consumer, it is now expected to register sales declines of 60 to 70 percent this year versus 2019 levels, according to estimates from Generation Research. Today, domestic travel in China is the only bright spot on the map for travel-retail operators and luxury brands, so all sights are trained on that market and how to grow business there. Alibaba Group has more than 800 million customers in China, while Dufry counts more than 2,500 shops in 65 countries. By fostering existing and new business models in offline and online travel retail, we are convinced the joint venture will capitalize on growth opportunities and will support Dufry to become the leading digital travel-retail company worldwide, Diaz said. Alibaba and Dufry have agreed to collaborate to jointly explore and invest in opportunities in China to develop the travel-retail business and enhance Dufrys digital development. The two groups are to incorporate a joint venture owned 51 percent by Alibaba, with the remainder held by Dufry. Story continues Dufry will propose at its extraordinary general meeting on Oct. 6 the issuance of up to 25 million shares, which could result in an issue size of about 700 million Swiss francs, or $764 million. On Sept. 10, Basel, Switzerland-based Dufry secured a commitment from funds managed by Advent International Corp. to purchase shares at 28.50 francs per share up to a maximum investment of 415 million francs. That is to be automatically increased by 20 percent of any amount by which the gross proceeds from the offer exceed 500 million francs, to a maximum investment of 455 million francs. The proceeds of 700 million francs would be used to finance the remaining interest in Hudson Ltd. and for general corporate purposes, Dufry said. Alibaba plans to invest at the same share price as Advent up to a maximum of 9.99 percent in Dufry, but no more than 250 million francs. Dufry entered China in 2008 and operates duty-paid shops in the Shanghai and Chengdu airports. Its also present in Hong Kong and Macau. In June, Dufry announced a global restructuring program to help allay the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program aimed to reduce personnel expenses by 20 percent to 25 percent between June and October, taking into account the different possibilities of full-year sales declines, which could run from 40 percent to 70 percent, as announced on May 12. That day, Dufry said its sales in April, in reported terms, declined 94.1 percent due to widespread travel restrictions. Lori Patterson admits she has shed a few tears since a special stroller belonging to her grandson was stolen off the front porch of her St. Catharines home more than a week ago. But theyve been happy tears, she said Monday, adding she has been overwhelmed by support shown by the community after her story was reported in this paper. Xavier, 8, has autism. For him, the stroller was a safe place, she said, where he could retreat when they went out and the world around him overloaded his senses. Sometimes when there was too much for him to handle, she said, she would place a blanket over the stroller to give him solitude. When it was stolen early on Sept. 25, after being forgotten outside the night before, he went into total meltdown, she said. Since then, Xavier has been worried, hasnt slept well and they have been largely grounded at home. A new stroller like the one he needs can cost up to $3,500, and she set up a GoFundMe account hoping to raise that amount. After her story appeared, pledges came in rapidly. On Monday morning St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik visited, accompanied by an anonymous donor who offered several hundred dollars to reach the $3,500 goal. Patterson said none of the strollers are available in Canada, but she has spoken with a U.S. manufacturer who can deliver one in two or three weeks. In the meantime, another donor offered Xavier use of a used stroller until the new one arrives. I dont even have words to describe it and thats something for me, because I am never speechless, Patterson said with a laugh. I am absolutely in awe over how much the community has gotten together to help him. He had a really rough time. Until the police officer came here, he hardly slept at all. He said, Im so worried, Im so worried. RELATED STORIES Niagara Region Niagara boy with autism heartbroken after special stroller stolen from his home On Monday, He slept in a little bit, and when I went to wake him up his first words were, Nana, can you please help me get a new stroller? And I said, Yes, honey, we are, were almost there. In an interview, another donor who was also prepared to provide enough money to reach the fundraising goal said Xaviers story touched her heart because Im a grandma, too. Just for Xavier to have his stroller stolen, it doesnt sit right with me Ive been in situations before where Ive needed help, years ago when my daughter was small, so I give back. Niagara Regional Police issued an arrest warrant last week for Kristian Adam Smith, 44, of no fixed address, to face a charge of theft under $5,000. As of Monday, police said, he has not been located. Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia Sunday resumed his Greater Accra tour with a visit to the Odododiodio constituency and urged the electorate to reject the National Democratic Congress in the December polls. He said anytime the NDC was in power, the economy collapsed and there was widespread unemployment. However, the NPP government epitomises progress and buoyant economy, creation of jobs and innovative ideas to transform lives. Vice President Bawumia addressed enthusiastic NPP supporters and sympathizers at Korle Wokon, amid shouts of "Four more for Nana to do more." The Vice President also paid a courtesy call on Sarki Kabiru Kadri English at Fa-adar Sarkin Hawasana Ankara at Zongo Lane. Dr Bawumia said the Akufo-Addo-led government had constructed 12 Astro Turfs as against two by the previous government while 29 of them were ongoing across the country, of which two were in the Odododiodio constituency. He urged the electorate to vote for Nii Lante Bannerman, the NPP parliamentary candidate in the December polls to snatch the seat from the NDC's candidate Nii Lantey Vanderpuye. Dr Bawumia said Ghanaians were witnessing much better governance and leadership under President Akufo-Addo's government with many flagship initiatives, including One-District, One-Factory, One Constituency, One-Ambulance, Free Senior High School, Nation Builders Corps, and Planting for Food and Jobs. The Vice President indicated that because of the fulfilment of about 80 per cent of the NPP 2016 electioneering campaign promises with more ongoing projects, Ghanaians could trust the NPP government with four more years to deliver more developmental projects. Dr Bawumia outlined some policies and programmes the Akufo-Addo-led government intended to implement when given the nod in the December 7 elections. They include the National Transport Recapitalization Scheme, Leasing programme to enable commercial drivers to own new vehicles, Tertiary Students Loan Scheme for university students to receive loans and pay it after completion of school and National Rent Allowance Scheme for workers to rent decent accommodation and later be deducted from their salaries and expand the Free Senior High School policy. Nii Lante Bannerman, the NPP candidate, on his part, said when given the nod, he would refurbish the Jamestown Abbatoir. He appealed to the electorate to vote for him since he had personally funded many developmental projects with his own money and promised to do more. Source: GNA 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 White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows has said hes optimistic Donald Trump will leave Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre on Monday after receiving coronavirus treatment over the weekend. Spoke to the president this morning, Mr Meadows said in a statement to Fox News. He continued to improve overnight and is ready to get back to a normal working schedule. He added the president will meet with his doctors and nurses this morning to make further assessments of his progress." We are still optimistic that he will be able to return to the White House later today, with his medical professionals making that determination later today," the statement concluded. Mr Meadows told Fox & Friends on Monday morning that the White House would know as early as Monday afternoon if the president could be released. [Mr Trump is] really, not only understanding what millions of Americans have had to face as theyve come in contact with this disease, but more importantly the fact that we need to continue to work on therapeutics, he added. "His treatment has been remarkable," Mr Meadows said. "His strength has been incredible." Mr Trump tested positive for the coronavirus on Thursday and was then taken to the hospital on Friday so doctors could monitor the president after he displayed mild symptoms. Since being admitted into the hospital, the president has experienced health scares from the novel virus, including sudden drops in his oxygen levels twice. Doctors treated the president with a dose of the steroid dexamethasone following the drops in oxygen. Dr Sean Conley, the White House physician who has served as the presidents personal physician, said in a press briefing the presidents oxygen dropped to 94 per cent on Friday and he had another episode on Saturday. Normal oxygen readings land between 95 to 100 per cent. Mr Trump also had a high fever on Friday, the physician said. The White House has attempted to show Mr Trump remains strong while fighting the infection by sharing multiple videos of the president over the weekend. Mr Trump even took a drive with Secret Service agents outside the medical centre on Sunday so he could wave at supporters. This drive sparked concerns among health experts that the president was exposing his staff to the virus, which has killed more than 209,000 Americans since the start of the pandemic. Appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the president and all those supporting it, including PPE," a White House spokesperson said in response to the criticism. The movement was cleared by the medical team as safe to do," he added. Mr Meadows also pushed back on the criticism by reminding the public how the president traveled to the hospital on Friday. "We came here on Marine One, the US Secret Service agent that is with him has been with him, and yet we took additional precautions with PPE and others to make sure they were protected," Mr Meadows said. "A number of folks are trying to make a big deal about that when I know myself and Secret Service details are with him everyday and want him to return to the White House as expeditiously as possible." On average, a person is infected with coronavirus for about five days before they develop symptoms. This pre-symptomatic period helps spread the novel virus, as the person has no symptom indicators that theyre infected with Covid-19. A person can then remain a carrier for the novel virus for days following displaying symptoms. Mr Trump returning to the White House has sparked concerns he could still spread the novel virus to other members of his staff. On Sunday, press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said the White House would not release the names of staffers who test positive for Covid-19, backtracking a previous comment from another spokesperson. She said this decision was made to protect the privacy of the White House employees. The White House has not detailed if the president would remain isolated if he were to leave the hospital on Monday. First Lady Melania Trump, who also tested positive for Covid-19 on Thursday, has remained at the White House. Will the government wait for a new law or start counting the invisible workforce now? Somesh Jha reports. Labour and Employment Minister Santosh Kumar Gangwar caused quite a stir on social media recently when he stated, on the first day of Parliaments monsoon session, the Centre does not have any data on the death of migrant workers during the lockdown. As is the practice, when MPs raise questions in Parliament, the response of the minister is routed through the bureaucracy. The responses are often carefully-crafted to avoid any Parliamentary breach. After pressure from Opposition parties, the labour minister told Parliament that the government is collecting data on suicides by migrant workers from the state governments. A senior labour ministry official said its estimated that 900-1,000 migrant workers died across the country during the lockdown. But since the data is based on empirical evidence, it wasnt feasible to provide such an estimate in Parliament. The implementation of labour laws is up to state governments, which may have collected these figures, the official contended. Its not as if the data hasn't been collected in one or the other form. There are researchers who have tried to map such a dataset. A website created by researchers and students, actively sourcing data points from various news portals, mentions more than 200 deaths happened because of accidents during migration, 96 deaths in Shramik Special trains (Railway Minister Piyush Goyal informed the Rajya Sabha about 97 deaths), 49 at quarantine centres, and so on. It is worth noting that this data may be severely under-reported. The central government did tell Parliament that there were 10.4 million workers who returned to their home states during the lockdown, based on information provided by state governments. On its part, the Union labour and employment ministry did try to create a database on migrant workers known as the National Portal for Covid-19 Affected Unorganised Migrant Workers. This was supposed to gather details of all the unorganised sector workers who were stranded in relief camps, residential and industrial clusters during the lockdown. But the project was shelved mid-way as the government opened up transportation lines to allow migrants to return home in May. In reality, India does not have reliable data on the migrant worker population. The standard response given by the government in Parliament whenever such a question is raised by lawmakers is that there are an estimated 100 million migrant workers in the country. The source of this dataset is the Economic Survey of 2016-17 which stated the share of migrants in the workforce is estimated at 17-19 per cent. If the share of migrants in the workforce is estimated to be even 20 per cent, the size of the migrant workforce can be estimated to be over 100 million in 2016 in absolute terms, it stated. The survey did create a Cohort-based Migration Metric to show about 9 million people migrated annually for work from 2011 to 2016, against 6 million on an average from 2001 to 2011. In a recent response to a Right to Information application filed by activist Anjali Bhardwaj, the Union labour and employment ministry stated there were only about 84,875 migrant workers working in 372 establishments between 2010-11 and 2019-20, according to its records. In fact, there were no migrant workers registered in Delhi, Patna, Dehradun, and Jabalpur in 2019-20. This is largely because the Centre goes by the Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act of 1979 to recognise migrant workers in legal parlance. There is no identification of migrants as such. The 1979 law states that only in cases where a licensed contractor takes a worker from one state to another, they will be recognised as inter-state migrants'. Those who migrate on their own for work to another state are never captured in their home states either, said Bhartruhari Mahtab, standing committee on labour chairman. He has written to Gangwar recently asking him to ensure that states collect data on migrants. Centre for Policy Research fellow Mukta Naik was willing to give a benefit of the doubt to the government as it was involved in managing and controlling coronavirus and states lacked the bandwidth to collect such information in the middle of a pandemic. It is theoretically possible to do a triangulation and map the migration trend through various sources, such as the railway data or through telecom operators, but we havent seen any efforts by the authorities thus far," she said. She said there was no uniformity among states in terms of collecting a dataset of migrants during the ongoing pandemic and differences in lockdown regulations made it all the more difficult. "The best way forward is to register unorganised workers and allow them to change their current location whenever they move, said Naik, who has done extensive research on internal migration. The Centre is planning to remove the anomaly in the law to recognise all workers who travel to another state, either on their own or through a contractor, as migrant workers. Additionally, such workers, but only those who earn up to Rs 18,000 a month, will be registered on a common portal, according to a proposed law known as the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code. There will be no mandatory registration of such workers and only those who want to avail social security benefits will be captured in the new dataset. The government has also proposed collecting statistics related to migrant workers, along with giving them an option for self-registration on a portal. A separate identification number will also be given to migrant workers. If we make registration process mandatory before allowing any migration to take place, it will prove to be counter-intuitive as it will act as deterrence towards job creation, a labour ministry official said. But law takes its own course. The Code on Wages, which seeks to provide minimum wages to the entire workforce for the first time, became law in August 2019. But so far, the law hasnt been implemented as the rules remain to be notified. The important question to ask is: Will the government wait for a new law or start counting the invisible workforce now? TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Truli for Health (Truli), an affiliate of Florida Blue and an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, is a new health maintenance organization (HMO) expanding in select Florida markets to give small and medium-size employers a new option for funding health care coverage. Through a collaboration with two leading health care organizations in Tampa Bay, area employers can begin enrolling in the plan October 1. As Floridians begin to recover from COVID-19, one of the most significantly impacted segments is the small business market, where business owners often cannot afford to offer health care coverage to their staff. Under development for the last two years, Truli provides a unique solution to this challenge by supplying easy-to-understand plans, affordable costs for the employers, plus convenient physical and virtual access to top local providers for consumers. For the Tampa Bay launch, Truli is working closely with two well respected health systems, Tampa General Hospital and HCA Healthcare West Florida. These progressive and nationally recognized health systems will work with Truli and other local providers that support this collaborative financing and delivery model. This includes the primary, specialty and urgent care facilities across the Tampa Bay area which are affiliated with Florida Blue including Sanitas Medical Centers, Diagnostic Clinic Medical Group, and GuideWell Emergency Doctors. This new, fully insured HMO is a first-of-its-kind value-based model for the employer group segment to meet the needs of price sensitive buyers by offering sustainably affordable premiums and a healthier, more productive workplace. "Florida Blue has long-standing relationships with both Tampa General and HCA Healthcare West Florida, and we are extremely pleased to be working with them and our other provider partners in this new product that was built from the ground up to leverage value-based care," said Andy Marino, president of Truli for Health. "We appreciate both organization's commitment to our vision for serving local employers in an innovative new way. We look forward to our continued collaboration as we strive to create a holistic health care experience that meets the health care needs of more Floridians." "Tampa General Hospital is excited and proud to be collaborating with Florida Blue on the new Truli for Health HMO," said John Couris, president and CEO, Tampa General Hospital. "Truli's unique model leverages provider and payor collaboration to deliver world class care at an affordable price for employers and consumers of healthcare." "HCA Healthcare is also excited to participant in this innovative approach to providing small and medium businesses with an affordable option to keep their employees and their families healthy," said Ravi Chari, M.D., President, HCA Healthcare West Florida. "The Tampa Bay area has benefitted greatly from healthcare collaborations during this pandemic, and we look forward to expanding these efforts to create community healthcare access solutions." When faced with rare and complex conditions, Truli members will have multiple options to access care through their local health system or via participating providers in other Truli markets - all done in coordination with their local physician. Media Contact: Ellen Fiss Sr. Public Relations Strategist (813) 844-6397 (direct) (813) 924-2634 (cell) [email protected] SOURCE Florida Health Sciences Center, Inc. d/b/a Tampa General Hospital Related Links http://www.tgh.org Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has defended his government's procurement of trains from a Chinese company linked to Uighur labour, saying NSW has been doing it for years. The Andrews government came under fire on Monday after revelations its high-capacity metro trains were being made by CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles, a subsidiary of Chinese state-owned CRRC. NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance inspects a new Waratah train in Sydney last month. Credit:Nick Moir The company, which was recently blacklisted in the United States due to the security risks posed by its ties to the Chinese government, has also been identified as a beneficiary of Uighur labour. Mr Andrews said that, although he did not "agree with everything that is done in every country", the government accepted assurances from China that train builder CRRC was not exploiting workers from the country's Uighur minority. Schools have been trying to prevent students from using foul language, and have even released regulations, but with little success. Tuan Anh, a teacher at Colette Secondary School in HCM City, noted that profanity is quite common among students nowadays. Illustrative photo When I hear students swearing, I warn them to not do this. I tell them that when they use foul language, people will negatively judge them and their parents and teachers, he said. The students listen to me, but they don't change theur manners, he said. The teacher noted that many students swear, no matter whether they are from well-off or poor families, or have parents who are manual workers or university educated. Curses are heard in all schools, the schools with students from wealthy families, and the schools where the majority of students are from poor families, he said. When talking to each other, gossiping or chatting via internet, they often swear. The words they use sometimes are terrible, said Nguyen Le Minh, a teacher at a private school in Tan Phu district in HCM City. The teacher hears students swearing when he goes to the tea shop next to the school. Bad language is used more commonly when students gather for meals or parties. Nguyet Viet Dang Du, a teacher at Le Quy Don High School in HCM City, noted that students restrict their swearing in class, but they do it regularly in school and on social networks. The students attending the workshop titled Students in cities and school behaviors in HCM City s recently admitted the use of bad language in classes and schools. Many students use uncultured words in communication, a student said. They cannot control their words. They speak profanity all the time. Seven out of every 10 sentences they speak contain foul words, the student said. In fact, correcting students behaviors and giving warnings against using foul language is a focus of schools. The handbooks delivered to students at the Nguyen Duc Canh High School in Thai Binh in the 2015-2016 academic year comprised school regulations. The No 1 regulation says students must not talk nonsense and swear, including swearing in abbreviated form. Dong Son 2 High School in Thanh Hoa also set the same regulation. Luong The Vinh High School in Hanoi released the things that they must not do on Facebook. Of the 10 articles at the Nam Viet Secondary and High School in HCM City, Article No 7 prohibits students from talking nonsense, swearing, smoking, drinking beer and using stimulants. However, as a teacher said, students still swear and curse. Thuy Nga Parents worried about fifth graders use of foul language Thu Trang, a parent in Ba Dinh district in Hanoi, yesterday evening scolded her son after discovering that he had used foul language when talking with his friends. Knowing trick-or-treating may not be the same this year, Meekaela Zimmer decided to create and sell interactive Halloween-themed smash boxes as another way to celebrate the spooky season. "Halloween isn't the same this year because of COVID-19 and social distancing," the 20-year-old San Antonio College student told mySA.com. "It's not really safe to go out to haunted houses or trick-or-treating, so I wanted to create something interactive and fun." The foreign ministers of Israel and the UAE will hold meetings in Berlin on Tuesday, two weeks after they signed a normalization agreement at the White House. Why it matters: This will be the first-ever publicly announced meeting between the Israeli and Emirati foreign ministers after many secret meetings in the past. They'll continue work on a series of bilateral agreements. The backstory: The Berlin meeting is the initiative of German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas. It comes after Israel-UAE meetings that were to be held in Israel last week took place instead over Zoom due to Israel's coronavirus lockdown. This is an opportunity for the Germans to get involved in the normalization process, something they'd been interested in doing, Israeli officials say. What to expect: In addition to the bilateral talks, there will be a trilateral meeting with Maas over dinner. Maas and his Israeli and Emirati counterparts will also visit the Holocaust Museum in Berlin and lay a wreath at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. What they're saying: The courageous peace agreement between Israel and the United Arab Emirates is the first good news in the Middle East for a long time and at the same time an opportunity for new movement in the dialogue between Israelis and Palestinians," Maas said in a statement. EDITORS NOTE: NJ Cannabis Insider produces exclusive weekly content and monthly events geared toward those interested in the marijuana and hemp industries. To subscribe, visit njcannabisinsider.biz. New Jersey voters will decide whether or not the state will allow the sale of marijuana to those over the age of 21 by voting on a ballot question Nov. 3. OTSEGO COUNTY, MI Police are searching for a missing, 34-year-old man in Northern Michigan. Gary Miles Pickvet Jr. of Gaylord was last seen at approximately 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3 when he and an acquaintance were traveling on Alba Highway east of Alba. According to the eyewitness, Pickvet requested to exit the vehicle and ran off into the woods. A family member reported Pickvet missing on Sunday, Oct. 4, Troopers from the Michigan State Police Gaylord Post are leading the search. Pickvet is 511, 160 lbs., maintains a very short beard, and has multiple tattoos on his arm and neck. He was last seen wearing a three-quarter length white sweater and jeans. Anyone with information is asked to call Gaylord Area Regional Dispatch at 989-732-5141. O53 Surface Map O53 Surface Map O53 Surface Map MONTREAL, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Osisko Metals Incorporated (the "Company" or "Osisko Metals") ( TSX-V: OM ; OTCQX: OMZNF ; FRANKFURT: 0B51 ) is pleased to provide initial results from the current drill program at its 100% owned Pine Point Project, NWT. Assay results have been received from four holes in the area of the O53 deposit (Central Zone) that were drilled to better define vertical extent of prismatic mineralization in the core of the deposit. Highlights include 17.50 metres grading 11.53% Zn and 2.52% Pb in drill hole O53-20-PP-001 and 28.80 metres grading 23.90% Zn and 6.24% Pb in drill hole O53-20-PP-012. The latter hole extends the high-grade prismatic mineralization approximately 10 metres below the currently modelled pit boundary in the immediate area of the hole. The O53 deposit has a strike length of 313 metres, an average width of 50 metres and maximum depth of 63 metres. Table 1: Drill Composites Hole Name From To Drilled Width (m) Pb (%) Zn (%) PB+ZN (%) O53-20-PP-001 21.25 23.50 2.25 1.45 9.07 10.52 O53-20-PP-001 28.50 46.00 17.50 2.52 11.53 14.05 O53-20-PP-001 50.00 55.50 5.50 1.07 4.43 5.50 O53-20-PP-003 53.50 56.50 3.00 0.61 8.45 9.06 O53-20-PP-003 60.00 62.00 2.00 0.05 2.24 2.29 O53-20-PP-011 47.00 51.00 4.00 0.18 1.02 1.20 O53-20-PP-012 22.10 50.90 28.80 6.24 23.90 30.14 O53-20-PP-012 59.10 64.10 5.00 1.47 5.54 7.01 *True widths are estimated to be 95-100% of reported drilled widths. Drill hole O53-20-PP-003 also indicates the presence of tabular mineralization 135 metres to the west of the O53 deposit, well outside the boundaries of the current pit-constrained resource model (see O53 surface map), indicating potential for a new tabular deposit extending westward at shallow depths. DDH O53-20-PP-011 intersected narrow mineralization in a collapse structure on the southern fringe of O53. Jeff Hussey, President and COO, commented: We are particularly excited to announce todays initial drill results, including impressive high-grade intersections from the O53 prismatic deposit as well as extension of mineralization, indicating new high-grade tabular mineralization, in drill hole O53-20-PP-003. We await further assays from other holes around O53. Visual estimates in the holes with pending assays confirms that mineralization remains open in the area. Regionally we have numerous targets defined around ten more deposits in the resource model that are open as well as stranded historical mineralized holes and geophysical targets. There is ample potential for new discoveries and continued expansion of resources across the entire Pine Point project. Story continues All other holes drilled in the area of O53 (see O53 surface map) are fringe holes located around the outer boundaries of the modelled mineralized zone based on assay composites in previously drilled holes (Cominco and PPML). Pending assays are noted in Table 2 and on the O53 surface map. Using visual estimates in drill core of sphalerite and galena mineralization, all drill holes intercepted disseminated to semi-massive mineralization over varying lengths. Drill hole O53-20-PP-008 intersected disseminated to patchy semi-massive sulphides over 17 metres. Drill holes O53-20-PP-004, -006, -007, -009 and -010 intersected disseminated to patchy semi-massive sulphides over drilled widths of between 2 and 5 metres. The remaining holes, O53-20-PP-002, -005, -013 and -014 intersected disseminated to patchy semi-massive sulphide mineralization over drilled widths of between 0.3 and 2 metres. Pending assays will be disclosed as soon as they are available. Drilling has been underway since August 30th and is following strict COVID-19 protocols. Drilling is currently focused on expanding high-grade mineralization in areas of both prismatic and tabular deposit potential in the Central and East Mill zones. In addition, IP geophysical surveying has commenced, targeting areas of promising exploration potential for added mineralization, based on data compiled from modelling of gravity gradiometry, LiDAR, structural analyses and historical drilling. Table 2: Drill Hole Collar Locations (NAD83 (CSRS) Zone 11). Hole Name Easting Northing Elevation (m) Azimuth Dip Depth (m) Results O53-20-PP-001 633947.98 6745690.76 225 0 -90 78 Reported O53-20-PP-002 634038 6745631 225 0 -90 75 Assays pending O53-20-PP-003 633782.85 6745669.49 225 0 -90 100 Reported O53-20-PP-004 633919 6745696 225 0 -90 81 Assays pending O53-20-PP-005 634102 6745640 225 0 -90 72 Assays pending O53-20-PP-006 634197.7 6745648 225 0 -90 79.5 Assays pending O53-20-PP-007 634105 6745620 225 0 -90 72 Assays pending O53-20-PP-008 634070 6745745 225 0 -90 111 Assays pending O53-20-PP-009 633867 6745667 225 0 -90 81 Assays pending O53-20-PP-010 633826 6745666 225 0 -90 76.5 Assays pending O53-20-PP-011 633969 6745642 225 0 -90 80 Reported O53-20-PP-012 633950.06 6745698.04 225 0 -90 81 Reported O53-20-PP-013 633996.22 6745660.61 225 305 -80 130.5 Assays pending O53-20-PP-014 634048.52 6745761.42 225 0 -90 85.5 Assays pending Note regarding mineral resources and Qualified Persons Mr. Robin Adair is the Qualified Person and the Vice President Exploration for Osisko Metals Incorporated. He is responsible for the technical data reported in this news release and a Professional Geologist registered in the North West Territories. Quality Assurance / Quality Control Osisko Metals adheres to a strict Quality Assurance and Quality Control program with regard to core handling, sampling, transportation of samples and lab analyses. Drill core samples from the Pine Point project area were securely transported to its core facility at the Pine Point project site, Northwest Territories where they were logged and sampled. Samples selected for assay were shipped via secure transportation to the ALS Canada Ltd.s preparation facility in Yellowknife. Pulps were analyzed at the ALS Canada Ltd. facility in North Vancouver, British Columbia. All samples are analyzed by four acid digestion followed by both ICP-AES and ICP-MS for ultra-trace level detection for a multi-element suite with a 1% upper detection limit for base metals. Samples reporting over 1% for Zn and 1% for Pb are analyzed by assay grade four acid digestion and ICPAES analysis with an upper detection limit of 30% and 20% respectively. Samples reporting Zn >30% and or Pb >20% are analyzed by traditional titration. About Osisko Metals Osisko Metals Incorporated is a Canadian exploration and development company creating value in the base metal space with a focus on zinc mineral assets. The Company controls two of Canadas premier past-producing zinc mining camps: 1) the Pine Point Project is located in the Northwest Territories, for which the recently filed PEA has indicated an after-tax NPV of $500M and IRR of 29.6%. Under the PEA, the Pine Point Project is host to current mineral resources amenable to open pit and shallow underground development consisting of Indicated Mineral Resources of 12.9Mt grading 6.29% ZnEq and 37.6Mt of Inferred Mineral Resources grading 6.80% ZnEq. Please refer to the technical report entitled Preliminary Economic Assessment, Pine Point Project, Hay River, North West Territories, Canada dated July 30, 2020 (with an effective date of June 11, 2020) which has been filed on SEDAR. The Pine Point Project is located on the south shore of Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories, near infrastructure and paved highway access and with 100 kilometres of viable haulage roads already in place; 2) The Bathurst Mining Camp properties, located in northern New Brunswick, are comprised of 23 claims covering approximately 59,738 hectares (2734 units) has Indicated Mineral Resources of 1.96 Mt grading 5.77% zinc, 2.38% lead, 0.22% copper and 68.9g/t silver (9.00% ZnEq) and Inferred Mineral Resources of 3.85 Mt grading 5.34% zinc, 1.49% lead, 0.32% copper and 47.7 g/t silver (7.96% ZnEq) in the Key Anacon and Gilmour South deposits. Please refer to the technical report entitled NI 43-101 Maiden Resource Estimate for the Bathurst Mining Camp, New Brunswick, Canada dated April 4, 2019 (with an effective date of February 20, 2019) which has been filed on SEDAR. The current mineral resources mentioned in this press release conform to NI43-101 standards and were prepared by independent qualified persons, as defined by NI43-101 guidelines. The abovementioned mineral resources are not mineral reserves as they do not have demonstrated economic viability. The quantity and grade of the reported Inferred Mineral Resources are conceptual in nature and are estimated based on limited geological evidence and sampling. Geological evidence is sufficient to imply but not verify geological grade and/or quality of continuity. Zinc equivalency percentages are calculated using metal prices, forecasted metal recoveries, concentrate grades, transport costs, smelter payable metals and charges (see respective technical reports for details). A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/be415186-6a24-45f7-ba5f-0c5990de1343 For further information on this press release, visit www.osiskometals.com or contact: Killian Charles VP Corporate Development Osisko Metals Incorporated (514) 861-4441 Email: info@osiskometals.com www.osiskometals.com Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves predictions, expectations, interpretations, beliefs, plans projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often, but not always, using phrases such as expects, or does not expect, is expected, interpreted, managements view, anticipates or does not anticipate, plans, budget, scheduled, forecasts, estimates, potential, feasibility, 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, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information and are intended to identify forward-looking information. This news release contains forward-looking information pertaining to, among other things: the Pine Point Project having world-class potential, including the potential to be one of the top ten zinc mines; the results of the PEA, including, but not limited to, the IRR, NPV and estimated costs, production, production rate and mine life; the expectation that the Pine Point Project will be an robust operation and profitable at a variety of prices and assumptions; the expected high quality of the Pine Point concentrates; the potential impact of the Pine Point Project in the Northwest Territories, including but not limited to the potential generation of tax revenue and contribution of jobs; and the Pine Point Project having the potential for mineral resource expansion and new discoveries. Forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and is 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, including, without limitation, assumptions about: favourable equity and debt capital markets; the ability to raise any necessary additional capital on reasonable terms to advance the development of its projects and pursue planned exploration; future prices of zinc and lead; the timing and results of exploration and drilling programs; the accuracy of mineral resource estimates; production costs; operating conditions being favourable; political and regulatory stability; the receipt of governmental and third party approvals; licences and permits being received on favourable terms; sustained labour stability; stability in financial and capital markets; availability of equipment; and positive relations with local groups. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, risks relating to the ability of exploration activities (including drill results) to accurately predict mineralization; errors in managements geological modelling; capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates; the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results; delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals; Osisko Metals history of losses and negative cash flow; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; changes in equity markets; inflation; the global economic climate; fluctuations in commodity prices; the ability of Osisko Metals to complete further exploration activities, including drilling; delays in the development of projects; environmental risks; community and non-governmental actions; other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry; the ability of Osisko Metals to retain its key management employees and skilled and experienced personnel; and those risks set out in the Companys public documents filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 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. 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. Global uncertainty following news that President Donald Trump has been hospitalised with Covid-19 underscores the downside of an administration that has built its foreign relations around the presidents personality, rather than well-crafted policy, and undercut the good will of allies amassed over decades, say analysts. Allies will be thinking, If the US cant get a handle on the pandemic to the point where it gets into the Oval Office, what does it say if we need the support of the marines? said James Green, a fellow at Georgetown University and former state department official. This underscores the unreliability of the US. I dont think anyone is going to be smug about it, that it serves you right, but it points to the chaotic part of this administration, added Green, who also served as a trade negotiator with the US embassy in Beijing. Get the latest insights and analysis from our Global Impact newsletter on the big stories originating in China. Throughout his presidency, Trump has often eschewed predictability, protocol, alliances, diplomatic niceties and the advice of experts, frequently relying instead on instinct. Experience taught me a few things, he wrote in his book The Art of the Deal. One is to listen to your gut, no matter how good something sounds on paper. The White House has insisted that Trump is able to work from the hospital. If his condition worsens, however, analysts say that decision-making could grind to a halt in the absence of a president who has been loathe to delegate or craft detailed policies. On Friday, global stock markets and oil prices slid while gold rallied as the news spread amid a lack of clarity over exactly when the president got sick and how serious was his condition. Questions around the health and well-being of a US leader spur global concern even with a more conventional president, as seen with John F Kennedys assassination in 1963 and Ronald Reagans slipping mental acuity. Reagan was diagnosed with Alzheimers disease after leaving office in 1989. Story continues But this is made worse by the nature of the potential threat facing the president amid concerns that the entire upper echelons of US power could be vulnerable to infection as well as Trumps poor record on transparency and unique approach to policy, analysts said. On Friday, the state department sought to reassure allies and domestic constituents that US foreign policy would remain consistent. However on Saturday, the state department said Secretary of State Mike Pompeo would depart for Japan on Sunday but would not go to Mongolia and South Korea as originally planned. A memorandum from White House doctor Sean Conley provides an update on President Donald Trumps condition on Friday morning, before he was moved to a hospital. Photo: Handout In a briefing on Friday, assistant secretary of state David Stilwell said that Congress, US allies and administration officials remained in basic agreement on policies despite the uncertainties, with discussions in Tokyo and Seoul expected over shared economic and security concerns and Chinas expanded footprint in the South China Sea. We are all pretty much on the same piece of paper with respect to the main issues in the region, Stilwell said. What we want to get back to, what we had before the corona broke out, is an economy that benefits the everybody the people. Trumps highly irregular approach to the presidency has been on prominent display since he took office nearly four years ago in his administrations approach to China and North Korea as well as US allies in Europe, Asia and North America. Since 2017, US-China relations involving trade, espionage, health, education and visas, among others, have been on a roller coaster. Trump started his administration with an unprecedented call with Taiwans president that set Beijing back on its heels. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its sovereign territory, to be reunited by force if necessary. Since then, Trump has launched a massive trade war that has roiled markets and held much of the global economy hostage, as the worlds two largest economies imposed tens of billions of dollars worth of sanctions on each other. This was interspersed with adulation of Chinese President Xi Jinpings strongman approach, the signing of a controversial trade deal Trump touted as the biggest deal there is anywhere in the world and praise for the Chinese leaders handling of the pandemic. Trump then switched gears again, accusing Beijing of causing a pandemic he has been criticised for badly mismanaging. In the process, he has created collateral damage for Asian-Americans with his repeated references to the China virus and kung flu. Relations with China also have been shaped by another feature of Trumps tenure, analysts said, that could play out during the current health crisis. Trumps lack of interest or focus in some policy areas has seen competing lieutenants push their own agendas and craft their own policy. Yet they are also wary of taking steps that Trump might notice and unceremoniously reverse, say analysts. Many key elements of the Trump administrations China policy have not been driven by the president himself but by his appointees, said Rush Doshi, director of Brookings Institutions China Initiative and a former policy adviser to Hillary Clintons 2016 presidential campaign. And the president has sometimes undermined his administrations efforts on China, pushing a softer line on Huawei and Xinjiang in hopes of securing a better trade deal, he said. An additional question should Trump be sidelined for any length of time is whether decreased presidential involvement would help or hurt. Trump was moved to Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre on Friday after his doctor issued a statement saying he was well at this time and expected to continue carrying out his duties during isolation. In the event that the president is sidelined with illness even for a brief period of time, we can expect different factions in the White House and various agencies to vie for power, while moving ahead with their own policy decisions, said Wendy Cutler, managing director of the Asia Society Policy Institute and a former senior trade official. Others said a less active schedule could lead to greater policy coherence that Trump would be otherwise inclined to undermine. Former US officials who lived in China said they anticipate two opposing reactions to Trumps illness among top Chinese party and government officials. One group of elites will see this as an added level of uncertainty, an added layer of chaos from an administration thats already quite chaotic, Green said. But the other will see it as a reaffirmation of their style of government, something that will further distract the US, and that China benefits from that. Green said he expected that nationalistic Chinese wolf warrior diplomats would be in the latter group. But analysts said Trumps lack of predictability also had its merits, putting Beijing on stark notice backed by Congress and public opinion polls that the US-China relationship needed fundamental restructuring no matter who was in the White House. US President Donald Trump shakes hands with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Hanoi last year. Photo: AFP This comes amid growing global concern as Xis government tightens its grip over Xinjiang, Tibet, Hong Kong and Inner Mongolia; squabbles with India, Japan and Southeast Asian neighbours over territory; and raises hackles in Europe over 5G security, large trade surpluses and its Covid-19 diplomacy. Trumps unique foreign policy has also been on display with North Korea. Early in his administration, the president got into a fiery war of words with its leader, Kim Jong-un, calling him Little Rocket Man and bragging about US military might, sparking fears of a nuclear war. Trump then proceeded to exchange self-described love letters with the dictator, touting his deal-making skills and ability to accomplish on denuclearisation what decades of experts could not. Since then, Trump appears to have largely lost interest as negotiations have foundered. Kim wished Trump a speedy recovery on Friday, North Korean state media reported. Trumps unique leadership style has also seen him rankle many US allies by insulting their leaders, accusing their governments of short-changing the US and ripping up existing trade agreements. Adding to the uncertainty is Trumps past lack of transparency on health issues including a sudden trip to the hospital last November that the White House has never explained and ambiguous statements he has made on whether he would leave office peacefully if he loses next months election. More from South China Morning Post: This article Unreliable personality-driven US foreign policy risks chaos due to Donald Trumps coronavirus diagnosis first appeared on South China Morning Post For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2020. New productivity expectations for Department of Veterans Affairs mental health counselors requiring them to see more patients could be detrimental to the quality of care they deliver, a Government Accountability Office report warns. The Veterans Health Administration's Readjustment Counseling Service provides care through 300 Vet Centers. In 2017, the agency changed how counselor productivity is assessed, setting expectations for the percentage of time spent with clients and the number of patient visits. For example, counselors are expected to achieve an average of 1.5 visits for each hour they provide direct services. Read Next: Marine General Under Investigation for Allegations He Used a Racial Slur However, Readjustment Counseling Service officials told the GAO in the report that they have no plans to evaluate the overall impact of the productivity goals, even though doing so is required by federal standards. Such an evaluation would monitor the effects of the new productivity expectations and correct any problems, according to the GAO. Established by Congress in 1979, the Vet Centers help eligible veterans who experience challenges from military-related trauma readjust to civilian life through counseling and other services. "The vet counselors are employed directly by the VA, and many of them are veterans themselves," said Debra Draper, director of GAO's Health Care team and author of the report. Readjustment Counseling Service officials said in the report the individual expectations are incorporated into counselors' annual performance reviews, but claimed they are not used punitively. A Vet Center director may choose to create a written plan to help a counselor meet productivity expectations within a specified time period, they added. But several of the counselors interviewed by the GAO said there is no effective mechanism for reporting concerns about the productivity goals. Although most counselors met the requirements in fiscal 2019, some told the GAO they had to change their work practices in ways that could hurt veterans' care. The counselors said they had to reduce the length or frequency of appointments and to hold more group counseling sessions to meet productivity requirements -- something they said may be disruptive to veterans' care. For example, counselors at one Vet Center told the GAO that, to meet productivity expectations, they spend less time with each client to fit more patients into their schedules. The counselors also expressed concern that they might be forced to hold more group counseling sessions to help meet productivity goals. But some clients, such as younger veterans from recent conflicts, may not be clinically ready for group counseling sessions or may not have time due to busy schedules. Without an evaluation of its productivity expectations, the Readjustment Counseling Service cannot be sure it is identifying any unintended or potentially negative effects of the expectations on counselor practices and client care, the GAO reported. According to the VA, from fiscal 2006 to 2019 there was a 90% increase in the number of veterans receiving mental health care from the Veterans Health Administration -- more than three times the rate of increase for all VA health care services. Draper said the increased need for mental health services is not surprising. "It's been well documented that there has been an increased rate of suicides," she said. "And then there also has been a lot of conflicts during that period of time." Related: House Approves Bill Ordering VA to Change Gender-Exclusive Motto If youre a small business owner and youre not offering a health savings account (HSA) option to your employees, you may be missing out on a popular and relatively inexpensive benefit that you can provide. The popularity of HSAs has been skyrocketing. According to an annual report published in September by Devenir, a provider of investment solutions for HSAs, more than $73 billion in assets are being held in more than 29 million HSA accounts, with investments in these accounts growing a third over the previous year. U.S. workers contributed almost $24 billion to their accounts in the first half of 2020, up 7% in a year. The typical account has $15,000 in it. An HSA is pretty simple. You, the employer, set up the plan with your health benefits provider (a great place to do your research is here). Employees then elect to contribute pre-tax amounts directly into their own accounts. Because the accounts are set up with pre-tax funds, any contributions an employee makes will lower federal taxable income, and you, the employer, also get a deduction for your contribution if you choose to make one. Amounts are then invested and the earnings from those investments are tax-free for federal purposes (some states, such as New Jersey, do not allow these amounts to reduce income for state taxes). Employees can use their savings for co-pays and other qualified medical expenses such as flu shots, X-ray fees, physical therapy, and, potentially, braces, teeth cleaning, and contact lenses depending on your companys health plan. But they cant pay their insurance premiums with their HSA savings. A full list of qualified expenses can be found on the IRS' website. Employees should be warned that using HSA funds for anything not on the list could subject them to a 20% penalty if the expense disqualified. If planned properly, the amounts put away in an HSA account, because they arent taxed, are essentially reducing health-care costs for employees similar to the taxes they would have paid. However, there are limitations. HSAs are allowed only if you have an existing high deductible health-care plan. These come with lower premiums but more amounts that will need to be paid out of pocket before coverage kicks in. The IRS defines a high-deductible health plan as any plan with a deductible of at least $1,350 for an individual or $2,700 for a family. According to the IRS, both employer and employee contributions are restricted to $3,550 ($7,100 for a family) in 2020, although employees older than 55 can contribute an additional $1,000. The Devenir report found that 32% of all HSA dollars contributed in the first half of 2020 came from an employer, with the average employer contribution amounting to $673. Employees so far have contributed $1,168, on average. Self-employed entrepreneurs and even people working in companies that dont have an HSA plan can still open up their own plans as long as they have a qualified high-deductible health insurance plan. Many self-employed or higher-paid individuals take advantage of the HSA almost exclusively for the tax benefits of an untaxed savings account, said Edward MacConnell who owns Total Benefit Solutions Inc., an employee benefits consulting firm in Feasterville. Because high-deductible plans can be more expensive in the long run for some, MacConnell says, these plans are best for people that are healthy and remain so over a number of years. A big attraction to these plans is the rollover rules. Employees can generally choose how theyd like their money invested among options that your administrator offers. Different from flexible savings accounts which have more limitations if not all the money is used in a year, the balance will roll over to the next year. If people leave your company, the amounts in their accounts can be transferred to another account, including individual accounts. So in a way its like a retirement plan for their health-care expenses. Despite their growth, HSAs may not be for everyone, MacConnell warns. Employers have limited control over HSAs, and many may not qualify because of their existing plans, MacConnell said. MacConnell says that employers should consider other options that can be used along with HSAs such as health reimbursement accounts (a type of employer-funded health benefit plan that reimburses employees for out-of-pocket medical expenses and, in limited cases, to pay for health insurance plan premiums). HRA plans can be totally customized by the employer and can be used to address the most pressing concerns of a benefit plan while also getting a better handle on costs, he said. Because of its flexibility, an HRA plan can potentially give an employer a competitive advantage over other employers when attracting or retaining high-quality employees. Joseph Vogt, who owns Greystone Benefits, a benefits firm based in Berwyn, agrees. HRA plans can allow a company to provide an enhanced level of benefits due to potentially reduced premiums, he said. Both employers and their workers can share the saved premium claims expenditure across the company. The good news is that there are more health-care options for small employers and the best approach is pass these options down to your employees. Offer multiple plans regardless of your group size, Vogt said. And, at the very least, if you can, include an HSA plan in the mix. News Release Basel, 5 October, 2020 Dufry and Alibaba Group have agreed to form a strategic Joint Venture in China and Alibaba Group plans an equity investment in Dufry with a target ownership of up to 9.99% of the post-offering share capital Dufry has agreed to form a Joint Venture with Alibaba Group to partner in the Chinese travel retail markets Partnership brings together Alibaba Group's leadership in Chinese consumer retail and digital transformation with Dufry's global travel retail expertise Alibaba Group plans an equity investment in Dufry with a target ownership of up to 9.99% post capital increase Based on Alibaba Group's commitment, Dufry proposes to the upcoming Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) on 6 October 2020 to issue up to 25 million shares, resulting in a potential issue size of approximately CHF 700 million Extension of deadline to vote at the EGM to 5 October 2020, 6pm CEST Julian Diaz, Dufry Group CEO, commented: "We highly value this partnership with Alibaba Group to form a strategic Joint Venture to explore growth opportunities and develop the travel retail business in China. We expect this collaboration to drive growth in Asia and with Chinese customers worldwide with the support of new digital technologies. Alibaba Group is a leader in digital commerce with an ecosystem of more than 800 million consumers in China. Dufry holds a leading position in travel retail globally and brings in its strong operational expertise in 65 countries and over 2,500 shops. By fostering existing and new business models in offline and online travel retail, we are convinced the Joint Venture will capitalize on growth opportunities and will support Dufry to become the leading digital travel retail company worldwide. We aim to better serve our customers and provide them anywhere with global products, services and personalized offers across all platforms and devices." Alibaba Group and Dufry AG (Dufry) have agreed to enter into a collaboration to jointly explore and invest in opportunities in China to develop the travel retail business and to enhance Dufry's digital transformation. The parties will incorporate a Joint Venture (JV) owned 51% by Alibaba Group and 49% by Dufry. Alibaba will bring in its established network in China and its digital capabilities. Dufry will contribute to the JV its existing travel retail business in China, and will support the JV with its supply chain and strong operational skills. In connection with this collaboration, Alibaba Group will invest in Dufry up to a maximum of 9.99% of the post-offering share capital and will participate in its ordinary capital increase, which is subject to approval of Dufry's shareholders at its upcoming EGM on 6 October 2020. As previously announced on 10 September 2020, Dufry has already secured a commitment from funds managed by Advent International Corporation or its affiliates ("Advent International") to purchase shares at CHF 28.50 per share up to a maximum investment amount of CHF 415 million (to be automatically increased by an amount equal to 20% of any amount by which the gross proceeds from the offering exceed CHF 500 million, up to a maximum investment amount of CHF 455 million). With the additional commitment by Alibaba Group, Dufry proposes to the EGM the issuance of up to 25 million fully paid-in registered shares, which would result in potential gross proceeds of approximately CHF 700 million. The envisaged proceeds are planned to be used to finance the previously announced acquisition of all remaining equity interest in Hudson Ltd. and for general corporate purposes, which may include the setup and operations of the above-mentioned JV with Alibaba Group to pursue growth opportunities in China and to accelerate Dufry's digital transformation. The shares to be newly issued and offered in the approximately CHF 700 million rights offering (the "Offered Shares") will in first priority be made available to existing shareholders, subject to certain legal limitations based on residency. The rights will not be tradable, but are transferable. Offered Shares not taken up by existing shareholders (the "Rump Shares") will in first priority be offered to Advent International up to its committed investment amount and in second priority to Alibaba Group. Alibaba Group plans to invest, at the same price per share as Advent International, up to a maximum of 9.99% of the post-offering share capital in Dufry, but no more than CHF 250 million (or such higher amount as agreed by Alibaba Group). Alibaba's commitment is subject to an allocation of at least 8.5% of Dufry's post-offering share capital and other customary conditions. Any Rump Shares not purchased by Advent International or Alibaba Group will be offered to the market by way of a public offering in Switzerland and private placements in certain jurisdictions outside Switzerland in compliance with applicable securities laws (the "International Offering"). The partnership with Alibaba Group is in line with Dufry's growth strategy focusing on the Asian markets and builds on the company's existing and long-dated footprint in China. Dufry first started to operate travel retail businesses in China in 2008. Today, Dufry manages duty-paid shops in the Shanghai and Chengdu Airports, and its presence extends to Hong Kong and Macau. Dufry is also seeking to expand its digital offerings including store and staff digitalization, pre- and post-travel online services, digital customer engagement and online presence inside and outside of the airport as well as data analytics and digitalization of operations. Dufry is extending the deadline to give voting instructions to the independent proxy for the EGM to 5 October 2020, 6pm CEST, through www.netvote.ch; investors voting through instructions to their banks must submit instructions by 12 noon CEST. Please see voting instructions here. For further information, please contact: Dr. Kristin Kohler Renzo Radice Global Head Investor Relations Global Head Corporate Communications & Public Affairs Phone: +41 61 266 44 22 Phone: +41 61 266 44 19 Mobile: +41 79 563 18 09 Mobile: +41 79 461 23 34 kristin.koehler@dufry.com renzo.radice@dufry.com Dufry Group - A leading global travel retailer Dufry AG (SIX: DUFN) is the leading global travel retailer operating over 2,400 duty-free and duty-paid shops in airports, cruise lines, seaports, railway stations and downtown tourist areas, in more than 420 locations in 65 countries across all six continents. The Company, founded in 1865 and headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, is offering customers a first-class shopping experience, global brands a unique market access and landlords a reliable, value-enhancing partnership. To learn more about Dufry, please visit www.dufry.com Social Responsibility Dufry cares for children and supports social projects from SOS Kinderdorf in Brazil, Cambodia, Mexico, Morocco and Ivory Coast. SOS Children's Villages is an independent, non-political and non-demonstrational organization established for orphaned and destitute children all over the world. Legal disclaimer This news release is for information purposes only and is not intended to constitute or form a part of any offer or solicitation to purchase or subscribe for securities in the United States of America, Australia, Canada, Japan, or any other jurisdiction. The securities mentioned herein have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 ("Securities Act") and may not be offered or sold within the United States of America except pursuant to an applicable exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act. There will be no public offering of any of Dufry's securities in the United States of America or in any other jurisdiction. The offers referred to herein, when made in member states of the European Economic Area ("EEA") and the United Kingdom, is only addressed to and directed to "qualified investors" within the meaning of Article 2(e) the Prospectus Regulation ("Qualified Investors"). For these purposes, the expression "Prospectus Regulation" means Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017 on the prospectus to be published when securities are offered to the public or admitted to trading on a regulated market, and repealing Directive 2003/71/EC, and includes any relevant delegated regulations. If located in a relevant state, each person who initially acquires any securities, and to the extent applicable any funds on behalf of which such person acquires such securities that are located in a relevant state, or to whom any offer of securities may be made will be deemed to have represented, acknowledged and agreed that it is a Qualified Investor as defined above. For readers in the United Kingdom, this announcement is only being distributed to and is only directed at Qualified Investors who are (i) outside the United Kingdom or (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) ("Investment professionals") of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the "Order") or (iii) certain high value persons and entities who fall within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) ("High net worth companies, unincorporated associations etc.") of the Order; or (iv) any other person to whom it may lawfully be communicated (all such persons in (i) to (iv) together being referred to as "relevant persons"). This document is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of offers to purchase or subscribe for shares. This document is (i) not a prospectus within the meaning of article 652a of the Swiss Code of Obligations, (ii) not a listing prospectus as defined in articles 27 et seqq. of the listing rules of the SIX Swiss Exchange AG or of any other stock exchange or regulated trading venue in Switzerland, (iii) not a prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act and (iv) not a prospectus under any other applicable laws. This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements relating to Dufry and its business. Such statements involve certain risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of Dufry 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. Dufry disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Prepared for any conflict, including two front war, IAF chief says amidst tensions with China India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 05: The chief of the Indian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said that India ready to deal with any challenge from China. We are deployed strongly to deal with any contingency, the IAF chief also said. We have made deployment in all relevant areas and Ladakh is a small part. Bhaduria also said that India is prepared for any conflict, including a two front war. Our capabilities have surprised the adversary, he also said. Rafale fighter aircraft to feature in 88th Air Force day parade on October 8 The newly inducted Rafale jets will be part of the Indian Air Force Day parade on October 8. The Rafale will lead the Vijay formation of the two Jaguars and Mirage 2000 multi role fighter jets. Integration of Rafales brings in a platform which is way ahead and would give us an edge and capability to strike first and deep he also said. The IAF chief also said that the Indian Air Force is transforming at a rapid pace. The IAF chief also said that the matrix of the threat facing the country is complex. JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News In September five French-made multirole Rafale fighter jets were inducted into the Indian Air Force in a glittering ceremony at the Ambala air force base, in a major boost to India's air power capability at a time the country is engaged in an escalating border dispute with China in eastern Ladakh. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 12:58 [IST] Several advertisements depict an individual wearing a white coat giving advice to parents/ lay consumers on the efficacy of a product. Some even go as far as showing a stethoscope around the person endorsing a product, leading the consumer to believe that such endorsements are made by a doctor. This article by Advocate Aazmeen Kasad is part of a series of articles on Misleading Advertising. Part 10 covers the aspect of portraying doctors through artists in white coats in advertisements and whether this falls foul of the law. From time immemorial, it is known that a doctor or a person from the medical profession garners more trust than any other professional. To many, a doctor is perceived to be next only to God and is looked at with utmost faith to cure issues related to the health of individuals. In the past century, never would this be more true than during the COVID-19 pandemic which has spread across the world, resulting in the creation of a widespread fear and anxiety amongst people of their contracting it. The advisory by the World Health Organisation and several notable health organisations and Ministries globally have recommended taking preventive health measures. This has manifested in a consequent need amongst the public at large to use products which can be trusted, especially if a doctor endorses it. We are witnessing a spate of advertisers using either medical practitioners who are registered outside India or individuals wearing white coats/ with or without a stethoscope endorsing a certain brand and exhorting its efficacy in advertisements, leading consumers to believe that such endorsements are made by Doctors. The Lifebuoy TVC portrays a doctor advising the mothers of two children to use Lifebuoy soap to ensure protection from 10 external skin ailments or internal bodily infections. Historically, Colgates advertisements have always shown a dentist recommending the toothpaste and also carry the endorsement by the Indian Dentists Association (IDA) of being the No.1 toothpaste recommended by the IDA. This led to Pepsodent resorting to a comparative advertising campaign against Colgates claim, with their advertisement making a claim that using Pepsodent toothpaste assures 130% more germ attack power over those who use Colgate Strong Teeth Toothpaste. This brings up the element of Comparative Advertising. Marketing ones brand by comparing it with anothers brand is referred to as Comparative Advertising. The objectives are to demonstrate superiority to your rivals product/ service, inform consumers, promote market transparency, ensure price competitiveness and create product improvisation. Is comparative advertising legally permissible? There is no law which bars it, simply because, if done honestly, it actually aids consumers. Consumer Rights per the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 (the Act) includes the right to be informed about the quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard and price of goods, products or services, as the case may be, so as to protect the consumer against unfair trade practices. It also includes the right to be assured an access to a variety of goods, products or services at competitive prices, wherever possible. Comparative advertising does just that. Having said that, advertisers should be cautious when resorting to comparative advertising to avoid being sued for unfair and dishonest/ misleading advertising. How does one ensure honest comparisons? There are several checks and measures that advertisers should ensure adherence to. The foremost is by comparing apples to apples. Advertisers should ensure that while comparing its product with that of its competition, all significant attributes of comparison are provided. Selective attributes comparison is held to be unfair, even if it is of the same product category. Similarly, not disclosing important information is also misleading a consumers trust. Another important way of ensuring that an advertiser does not run into a legal issue while promoting its brand through comparative advertising is by having substantiation in the form of research reports or laboratory studies, etc., backing up its claims of superiority. The trend continued with Pepsodent, too, using a character portraying a dentist, who advises patients to switch to Pepsodent to control gum bleeding. The Medical Council of India bars advertising by Doctors. Regulation 6.1.1 of Chapter 6 of the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002 provides that soliciting of patients directly or indirectly, by a physician, by a group of physicians or by institutions or organisations is unethical. A physician must not make use of him/ her (or his/ her name) as subject of any form or manner of advertising or publicity through any mode either alone or in conjunction with others, which is of such a character as to invite attention to him or to his professional position, skill, qualification, achievements, attainments, specialities, appointments, associations, affiliations or honours and/or of such character as would ordinarily result in his self-aggrandizement. A physician is barred from giving to any person, whether for compensation or otherwise, any approval, recommendation, endorsement, certificate, report or statement with respect of any drug, medicine, nostrum remedy, surgical, or therapeutic article, apparatus or appliance or any commercial product or article with respect of any property, quality or use thereof or any test, demonstration or trial thereof, for use in connection with his name, signature, or photograph in any form or manner of advertising through any mode nor shall he boast of cases, operations, cures or remedies or permit the publication of report thereof through any mode. Despite the law by which doctors registered with the Medical Council of India (MCI) are bound, select doctors have been advertising and endorsing products. Such violations have been dealt with strictly by the MCI. Where a hospital in Kerala published advertisements in newspapers featuring doctors who are practicing in the hospital along with their photographs and qualifications among others, the said doctors were issued a warning in the first instance. Complaints on advertisements by the Nova Orthopaedics & Spine Hospital, Nehru Enclave, New Delhi and the Saket City Hospital, New Delhi having advertising by doctors were strictly dealt with and the advertisements were withdrawn with an apology being tendered by the hospitals. The Madhya Pradesh Medical Council (MPMC) has issued warning notices to the states nearly 50 prominent doctors for advertising and promoting their skills. The action was taken on the complaints lodged with the Council against the doctors. (Source: https://brandequity.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/advertising/medical-council-warns-top-docs-to-stay-away-from-advertisement-blitz/52450490) Any subsequent violation would lead to strict disciplinary action, including their licences being suspended and their names being struck off from the register of the MCI. The Travancore Cochin Medical Council (TCMC) has suspended the registration of an Ayurveda practitioner, who was under the scanner for publishing advertisements which claimed miracle and unscientific cures for various illnesses.This suspension was done on orders of the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC), which had directed the TCMC and state drugs controller to take strict action against the practitioner. (Source: https://medicaldialogues.in/medical-council-suspends-registration-of-ayurveda-practitioner-for-publishing-miracle-cure-advertisements?infinitescroll=1 ) Six doctors were suspended and 10 penalised after the Tamil Nadu Medical Council registered at least 50 cases in 2019 against doctors for advertising on online platforms, said officials. (Source: https://www.dtnext.in/News/TamilNadu/2019/11/16025844/1197941/Online-advertisements-Medical-Council-suspends-six-.vpf ) The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have stated that the MCI receives complaints with regard to advertisement of medical professionals, which are considered by the Ethics Committee of the MCI and are followed with strict action. This has led to doctors now exercising caution against violation of the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002. Given that doctors are now declining to endorse products in advertisements, more recently, the trend has emerged of using celebrities to portray the role of a doctor in advertisements by advertisers. The recent advertisement of Policy Bazaar.com, features celebrity actor Akshay Kumar endorsing the insurance aggregator. In another recent case, celebrity actor Neena Gupta is seen donning a white coat and endorsing GSKs 3-in-1 vaccine, explaining to expectant mothers how the vaccine will protect the child from Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis all at once. https://www.facebook.com/GSKPharmaceuticalsIndia/videos/818163872017650/ While the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 (the Act) is silent on the use of the term Celebrity; it has defined the term "endorsement" in relation to an advertisement to mean (i) any message, verbal statement, demonstration; or (ii) depiction of the name, signature, likeness or other identifiable personal characteristics of an individual; or (iii) depiction of the name or seal of any institution or organisation, which makes the consumer believe that it reflects the opinion, finding or experience of the person making such endorsement. Thus, the Act includes endorsements by (i) individuals; and (ii) institutions/ organisations. The critical element of an endorsement is the fact that it leads the consumer to believe that it is the opinion or the finding or the experience of the person/ institution/ organisation making the endorsement. However, today, there are no rules, regulations or guidelines laid down with regard to the basis on which endorsements are made by institutions/ organisations, be it noted medical associations of the country or doctors or otherwise. Per Section 2(1) of the Act, an advertisement means any audio or visual publicity, representation, endorsement or pronouncement made by means of light, sound, smoke, gas, print, electronic media, internet or website and includes any notice, circular, label, wrapper, invoice or such other documents. Therefore, this includes advertisements not only on the traditional media such as print, radio or television advertisements but also includes packaging, point of sale material, etc. Advertisements on the Internet, including social media such as ads posted on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. also fall within the purview of the Act, as do advertisements on websites, which includes the advertisers own website(s). As per the Act, a misleading advertisement in relation to any product or service, means an advertisement, which (i) falsely describes such product or service; or (ii) gives a false guarantee to, or is likely to mislead the consumers as to the nature, substance, quantity or quality of such product or service; or (iii) conveys an express or implied representation which, if made by the manufacturer or seller or service provider thereof, would constitute an unfair trade practice; or (iv) deliberately conceals important information. Per section 2(47) of the Act, an unfair trade practice means a trade practice which, for the purpose of promoting the sale, use or supply of any goods or for the provision of any service, adopts any unfair method or unfair or deceptive practice including any of the following practices, namely (i) making any statement, whether orally or in writing or by visible representation including by means of electronic record, which (a) falsely represents that the goods are of a particular standard, quality, quantity, grade, composition, style or model; (d) represents that the goods have sponsorship, approval, performance, characteristics, accessories, uses or benefits which such goods do not have; (f) makes a false or misleading representation concerning the need for, or the usefulness of, any goods. As Doctors themselves are barred from advertising, resorting to usage of characters portraying the role of doctors, misleads the unsuspecting consumer by implication. Such advertisements, especially in the absence of genuine endorsements by any reputed Doctor or registered Medical Council of India, misleads consumers to believe that the products are genuinely endorsed by the medical fraternity. The very fact that advertisers are portraying celebrities in white coats with/ without stethoscopes knowing that it would lead the common man to believe that the character is one of a doctor and therefore trust the endorsement by the actor portraying the role, smacks of mischief and may be construed as an Unfair Trade Practice. In light of the newly introduced provisions under the Act, which came into force from July 20, 2020, it is advisable for not only the advertisers and the endorsers, but also the publishers of the advertisements to exercise caution on the claims that form part of the advertisement of the goods/ services. Under the Act, any advertiser, trader, publisher and endorser found to be guilty of a false or misleading advertisement, may receive an order from the Central Consumer Protection Authority, with directions to the concerned trader or manufacturer or endorser or advertiser or publisher, as the case may be, to discontinue such advertisement or to modify the same in such manner and within such time as may be specified in that order. If the Central Authority is of the opinion that it is necessary to impose a penalty in respect of such false or misleading advertisement, by a manufacturer or an endorser, it may, by order, impose on manufacturer or celebrity endorser a penalty which may extend to Rs 10 lakh in the first instance and for every subsequent contravention by a manufacturer or endorser, a penalty, which may extend to Rs 50 lakh may be imposed. Additionally, where the Central Authority deems it necessary, it may, by order, prohibit the celebrity endorser of a false or misleading advertisement from making endorsement of any product or service for a period which may extend to one year in the first instance which may extend to three years for every subsequent contravention. Any person found to publish, or is a party to the publication of a misleading advertisement, except in the ordinary course of his business, may be penalisedwith a fine which may extend to Rs 10 lakh. The defence that the false or misleading advertisement was published in the ordinary course of business shall not be available to such person if he had previous knowledge of the order passed by the Central Authority for withdrawal or modification of such advertisement. Honest advertising can empower consumers into making better buying decisions; while for advertisers, it can garner goodwill, trust, brand loyalty, higher sales which translates intohigher revenues and profits. On the other hand, deceptive or misleading advertising can hurt the brand, expose the advertiser to legal risks and fines and also loss of consumer trust and in the long run, consumers.The ensuing Parts of the series will pertain to various other aspects of what constitutes Misleading Advertising and key judicial precedents on the same. Advocate Aazmeen Kasad is a practicing corporate advocate with over 20 years of experience, with a focus on the Media, Technology and Telecom industries. She is also a professor of law since 13 years. She is a member of the Consumer Complaints Council of the Advertising Standards Council of India. She is a speaker at several forums. GENEVA, Ill., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- During the month of October, Merlin Complete Auto Care in Glendale Heights, IL, and more than 200 Independent Auto Repair Shops across the US are raising funds for a breast cancer vaccine as part of the Brakes for Breasts fundraiser. As part of the fundraiser, these auto repair facilities are giving away FREE (quality) brake pads or shoes. The customer simply pays the labor and any other ancillary parts necessary to complete the brake job and the shops then donate 10% of the brake job directly to Dr. Vincent Tuohy & the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Research Fund. 100% of what we donate goes directly to research! Celebrating our 10th year and $1,000,000.00! 2020 marks the tenth year for the Brakes For Breasts fundraiser. 2011 Our 1st year - 5 shops in Ohio raised $10,000 2012 Our 2nd year - 27 shops in 17 states raised $32,848 2013 Our 3rd year - 66 independent auto repair shops in 27 states raised $66,499 2014 Our 4th year 143 independent auto repair shops in 29 states raised $115,236.53 2015 Our 5th year 174 independent auto repair shops in 32 states raised $141,868 2016 Our 6th year - 131 independent auto repair shops in 35 states (most ever!) $125,867.37 2017 Our 7th year - 114 independent auto repair shops in 34 states raised $114,389.20 2018 Our 8th year 138 independent auto repair shops in 34 states and 2 countries raised $141,061.80 2019 Our 9th year 141 independent auto repair shops in 38 states and 2 countries raised $194,160.04 To date donation total is $940,931.74! This Brakes For Breasts fundraiser is different from any other breast cancer fundraising campaigns: Dr. Tuohy at the Cleveland Clinic has actually created a vaccine that has proved effective in laboratory animals in actually preventing breast cancer. Think about polio, eradicated because of a vaccine, a distant memory for most generations. This is the same principle! Dr. Tuohy and his team are rounding the corner and are hoping to start Phase 1 trials in 2020. 100% of the proceeds from the 'Brakes for Breasts' fundraiser goes directly to the Cleveland Clinic for research on the Breast Cancer Vaccine. These are just "mom & pop" shops across the country, independent business owners that have joined hands for a great cause. For more information about the breast cancer vaccine, Dr. Tuohy and a list of participating shops, go to www.brakesforbreasts.com, download our "Brakes for Breasts" app to your smart phone and like us on Facebook! About Merlin Complete Auto Care: With over 3500 centers in North America Merlin Complete Auto Care is part of the Driven Brands family of companies. Locally-owned and operated in Glendale Heights, Illinois, franchise owner Muffadal Simba and his team are dedicated to premier service, customer education, and community service. More information visit: Merlins.com Contact: Valerie Zabriskie Merlin Marketing Director 773-423-8857 x 1003 [email protected] www.brakesforbreasts.com SOURCE Merlin Complete Auto Care Related Links http://www.brakesforbreasts.com Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 20:04:49|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BANGKOK, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Thai Rice Exporters Association said said on Monday that Thailand's rice export this year is expected to drop from 7.5 million tons estimated at 130 billion baht (4.138 billion U.S. dollars) last year to 5 million tons estimated at 115 billion baht (3.66 billion U.S. dollars). The association's president Chookiat Ophaswongse, attributed the drop to the strengthening of the Thai baht and low rice production. The price of Thai white rice is currently around 490 U.S. dollars per ton, compared to Vietnamese white rice at 460 U.S. dollars per ton, Indian at 370 U.S. dollars per ton and Myanmar at 420 U.S. dollars per ton, Chookiat said. "For example, Malaysia only bought 40,000 tons of Thai white rice this year, compared to its usual 400,000 tons per year," said Chookiat, adding "Malaysia had switched to rice from Vietnam, India and Myanmar instead." The association president said that the Philippines had imported 1.8 million tons of rice this year, of which 1.7 million tons came from Vietnam and only around 60,000 tons came from Thailand. He said that the Philippines used to import around 500,000 tons of rice from Thailand. Separately, Thailand has exported 4 million tons of rice in the first nine months of this year, averaging at between 300,000 and 400,000 tons monthly. "So if Thailand wants to achieve the goal of exporting 6.5 million tons this year, then it will have to sell at least 500,000 tons monthly, which is very unlikely," Chookiat said. Enditem Personal injury protection can help drivers that got injured in a car accident to receive the treatment they need and obtain help to do the house chores if they got a serious injury., said Russell Rabichev, Marketing Director of Internet Marketing Company. Personal Injury Protection insurance (PIP) is one of the least understood types of insurance. Many policyholders dont know that much about this coverage. This insurance will cover bodily injury after a car accident. This coverage was created because it took to long to decide who caused the accident and had to pay all the medical bills. PIP insurance will cover the policyholder and the immediate family members while occupying a car, or if they are struck by a vehicle while walking on the sidewalk. Also, PIP will cover any person inside the policyholders vehicle. PIP insurance can cover the following expenses: Medical bills. PIP offers coverage for all sorts of medical expenses. However, this insurance has some caps on coverage depending on the states minimum requirements and by the coverage plan. Drivers that need more protection can choose higher coverage limits. Lost wages. Several types of PIP insurance can provide coverage for lost income. The amount the policyholder can claim will be limited and the insurance will be more expensive. Drivers that have insurance that covers lost wages should think twice before buying PIP insurance. Funeral expenses. This optional feature will cover the cost of a funeral in case someone dies in a car accident. Policyholders should carefully analyze this option and see if the covered amount is enough to pay for all the expenses of a funeral. Also, this option can be useless for policyholders that have life insurance. Death benefit. In case of a death in a no-fault accident, some PIP plans will offer a death benefit. In most cases, the surviving family members will get the unused premium. Important services. PIP coverage will help policyholders that have major medical issues that stop them from fulfilling their daily and weekly house chores. Cooking, mowing the lawn, doing the laundry, and other chores can be nearly impossible to accomplish by someone that has serious injuries. This insurance will reimburse the costs of hiring people that will help the policyholder do everyday chores. Compare-autoinsurance.org is an online provider of life, home, health, and auto insurance quotes. This website is unique because it does not simply stick to one kind of insurance provider, but brings the clients the best deals from many different online insurance carriers. In this way, clients have access to offers from multiple carriers all in one place: this website. On this site, customers have access to quotes for insurance plans from various agencies, such as local or nationwide agencies, brand names insurance companies, etc. For more information, please visit https://compare-autoinsurance.org The bridge creates a new viewing platform and civic space with an inventive, accessible pathway. The project is the first pedestrian and utility bridge designed by the Firm in partnership with KPFF Consulting Engineers, and it is a composition of concrete and steel, design and functionality, nature and digital design technology. Aerial view of the new Grand Avenue Park Bridge in Everett, Washington. Photo: Adam Hunter/LMN Architects. Aerial view of the new Grand Avenue Park Bridge in Everett, Washington. Photo: Adam Hunter/LMN Architects. Detail view of the aluminum panels, the truss, and the structure of the Grand Avenue Park Bridge. Photo: Adam Hunter/LMN Architects. Detail view of the aluminum panels, the truss, and the structure of the Grand Avenue Park Bridge. Photo: Adam Hunter/LMN Architects. Seattle, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LMN Architects celebrates the completion of the Grand Avenue Park Bridge in Everett, Washington. The 257-foot-long asymmetrical weathering steel truss spans from the hillside to a vertical concrete tower, creating a sequence of new civic spaces and connecting Grand Avenue Park with Everetts growing waterfront district. Elevating utilitarian infrastructure to a thoughtfully designed community asset, the Grand Avenue Park Bridge highlights the value of rethinking public realm design. The bridge transforms the Everett waterfront, establishing a new connection between the historical Grand Avenue Park and the citys developing waterfront district. At the bridges recent opening, Mayor Cassie Franklin commented, It is a beautiful bridge, it is a utility project, and it is going to be part of our city for generations to come. It is a gorgeous new asset. The new bridge solves a complicated sequence of grade-changes and utility needs in an unlikely new form that weaves pedestrian ramps and stairs above, around, and inside a sloping truss, presenting an inviting new crossing from Grand Avenue Park to the waterfront district. Across its 257-foot span, the bridge carries major utilities while navigating a network of existing electrical lines, a five-lane highway, and the BNSF train tracks at the base of an 80-foot-tall steep slope, all while preserving views from the park above. In part, the amazing views are preserved by having a unique entrance onto the top of the bridge such that most of the bridge structure is below Grand Avenue Park. Story continues As designers, we found these circumstances the perfect opportunity to create a place where the accessible features would define the experience, says LMN Partner Stephen Van Dyck, AIA. In its design, the Grand Avenue Park Bridge is also a destination. The bridges paths, stairs and spaces create a variety of views beyond and within that make it a place of discovery. The design is pragmatic and economical. The truss form responds directly to its programmatic needs while recalling the form and character of traditional railroad trusses found across the Pacific Northwest. The structural elements are constructed of weathering steel, a raw form of steel, which uses rust to form a protective layer, providing corrosion resistance and enhancing the bridges maintainability over time. Wrapping around and running through the truss, a shining, lacey guardrail also serves as the bridges de-facto wayfinding system, contrasting with the raw character of the rusted truss with its silvery aluminum panels. The guardrail features a bespoke perforation that is inspired by the forms of the surrounding natural environment. The varied density of perforations was designed to enhance reflectivity of the artificial lighting, improving the performance of the integrated linear lights at the top of the rail while minimizing glare and light pollution. Each aluminum panel is unique, responding to the geometry of the bridge, views beyond, and varying guardrail requirements. Geometry for the 400 aluminum panels was generated through a computer script, automating the layout, numbering and cut file production. A separate file for each panel was provided to a fabricator for use with their computer numerically controlled (CNC) Waterjet. LMN Principal Scott Crawford says, LMNs experimentation with our own CNC machine to fabricate full-scale mockups was essential for refining the scale of the pattern, adjusting the amount of area for the light reflection, and testing the digital cut files. This close collaboration allowed for a solution that is finely tuned to its context. The overlay of large-scale truss elements and small-scale perforations creates a dynamic experience of view, light and shadow along the walking path. A tall concrete elevator and utility core serve as the western abutment, its concrete walls blasted with the same perforation pattern and wrapped in a staircase that leads to the pedestrian-level waterfront promenade. The bridges iconic presence is rooted in the unexpected formal juxtaposition of muscular and delicate, rustic and refined, symmetrical and asymmetrical, inside and out. Since its completion in late August, the Grand Avenue Park Bridge has become a popular destination, enhancing the pedestrian life of the Northwest neighborhood and the growing mixed-use waterfront district. By embracing a creative pragmatic approach, the design addresses both functional and aesthetic demands, weaving urban infrastructure into the life of the city and becoming a catalyst for continued community revitalization. LMN Architects is recipient of the 2016 AIA National Architecture Firm Award and is widely recognized for its design of projects that support smart, sustainable, cities. The firm has successfully completed more than 700 projects across North America, including the double LEED Platinum Vancouver Convention Centre West in Vancouver, Canada; Cleveland Convention Center & Civic Core in Cleveland, Ohio; Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio, Texas; and the Voxman Music Building at the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa. The firms ongoing dedication to communities at all scales is underscored by its design approach, creating environments that elevate the social experience. About LMN Architects Since its founding in 1979, LMN Architects has dedicated its practice to the health and vitality of communities of all scales. Internationally recognized for the planning and design of environments that elevate the social experience, the firm works across a diversity of project typologies, including higher education facilities, science and technology, civic and cultural projects, conference and convention centers, urban mixed-use and transportation. LMN has successfully completed over 700 projects across North America, including the Voxman Music Building at the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa; Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio, Texas; Vancouver Convention Centre West in Vancouver, Canada; Sound Transit University of Washington Station in Seattle, Washington; and the new Seattle Asian Art Museum. Based in Seattle, Washington, LMN Architects is led by partners John Chau, Sam Miller, Walt Niehoff, Wendy Pautz, Mark Reddington, George Shaw, Stephen Van Dyck, and Rafael Vinoly-Menendez. The firm employs 165 talented professionals practicing architecture, interior design, and urban design, and the quality of the work has been recognized with nearly 300 national and international design awards, including the prestigious 2016 National Architecture Firm Award from the American Institute of Architects (AIA). For more information on the work of LMN Architects, please visit lmnarchitects.com Attachments CONTACT: Edgar Almaguer, Communications & Media Strategist LMN Architects 2066823460 ealmaguer@lmnarchitects.com Indian tech firms join to fight Google's app store monopoly: report Indian start-ups and tech firms are reported to be forming an alliance to fight Googles app store monopoly by launching a parallel app store that would be more inclusive, according to a report in technology magazine TechCrunch. Google, the most widely used internet platform, also has 99 per cent of the nations smart phone market. According to the report, more than 150 start-ups and other tech firms in India, including Paytm co-founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Deep Kalra of travel ticketing firm MakeMyTrip; and executives from PolicyBazaar, RazorPay and ShareChat are among the alliance partners planning to launch an app store to limit their reliance on Google. The move comes as Google uses the reach of the Android platform to tighten its stranglehold on Indian technology firms and start-ups with its widely alleged monopolistic practices. Google has demanded that starting next year developers with an app on Google Play Store must give the company a cut of as much as 30 per cent of several app-related payments. Top tech firms have already dumped Googles demands calling it unfeasible and untenable. There is a growing list of aggrieved firms and entrepreneurs who complain about unfair and inconsistent enforcement of Play Stores guidelines in the country. With the start-up ecosystem in India growing, Google is playing Big Daddy by its diktats to smaller tech firms, they say. Another small group of firms that include Epic Games, Spotify, Basecamp, Match Group and ProtonMail, have already formed a coalition to pressure Apple and Google to make changes to their marketplace rules, says the report. The conversations in India, which began in recent weeks, escalated on Tuesday after Google said that starting next year developers with an app on Google Play Store must give the company a cut of as much as 30% of several app-related payments. Several major startups in the country have expressed disappointment over the unhelpful nature of industry bodies, which they say have failed in nurturing the ecosystem. They also cite instances like Google decision to temporarily pull Paytms marquee app from the Play Store, which has caused the tech company immense loss both in business facilitation and reputation. This is the problem of Indias app ecosystem. So many founders have reached out to us if we believe this country can build digital business, we must know that it is at somebody elses hand to bless that business and not this countrys rules and regulations, Paytms Sharma said in a TV interview criticising Googles Play Store policies. The report also cited Google sending notices to several firms in India, including Hotstar, and warnings to food delivery startups Swiggy and Zomato. Some of the participating members are also hopeful that the government, which has urged the citizens in India to become self-reliant to revive the declining economy, would help their movement. As of Thursday afternoon (local time), they had yet to reach out to the government. Google, which has backed a handful of startups in India and is a member of several Indian industry bodies, also leads the mobile payments market in India. Besides, it has invested $4.5 billion this year in Mukesh Ambanis Jio Platforms to extend its reach to telecom and retail. Ambanis Jio Platforms has attracted more than $20 billion in investment from Google, Facebook and 11 other high-profile investors this year. Andrew Marr unleashed! He quit his show because he was fed up with never being allowed to say what he thought... Now, he lets rip on the royals, the PM - and the licence fee Back in the early spring, as outbreaks of the coronavirus began to devastate communities, government's technology community was called upon to pivot and innovate . It did so with unprecedented speed and great skill, standing up in a matter of days systems that might have been expected to take months or years. Who would have thought then that states and localities would still be grappling with COVID-19 as we move into the fall, or that relief from the disruption of this deadly public health crisis would not be likely until at least mid-year 2021?But here we are. Government IT will be called on to build on the work that has already been done, finding new ways to support and enable vital services ranging from health care to education to public safety. In the near term, one of the greatest challenges will be seeing that the technology that underlies November's elections runs smoothly and securely . Never has the need for chief information officers and other IT leaders to have a seat at the table where top-level decisions are made been clearer.The response in the pandemic's early days illustrated the public-sector tech community's untapped capabilities. Government offices were forced to move suddenly to remote work while ensuring that citizens continued to receive the services they needed. As public schools closed their doors, education was transformed by distance learning. Meanwhile, IT leadership and staff protected against cyber-attackers who would prey on the vulnerabilities of a newly remote workforce. IT leadership was thrust into the forefront, and they got it done.But there is still so much to do. The current situation has taught us two important lessons: One is that top leaders governors, mayors, county executives and other policymakers will need to continue to provide public employees and citizens with, and improve on, the technology that was rapidly deployed in response to the crisis. The second lesson is that in the pandemic technology has fundamentally changed the way government functions. It has transformed not only where millions of government employees work but also what citizens need and expect from government. There is no going back.That's why it is particularly important now to bring technology leaders into every strategy discussion. There have been longstanding debates as to the role a CIO should play in moving government forward. The discussion is rich with anecdotal success stories from around the country, stories about CIOs going above and beyond to make their governments successful. We recently held two very successful digital summits where this conversation flourished. Government CIOs from the state and local level opened up about their roles and gave a glimpse into their futures.We would love to be able to report that every CIO is seated at the "big table," playing a strategic, vital role in getting things done. We wish we could say that all of government's top elected and career leaders get it when it comes to valuing the work of technology leadership and staff. But we cannot fool ourselves into thinking that all leaders believe that technology is essential to their success. Those who are true believers will go further than they ever expected. For those who do not believe, we need to talk.Our message to all the public officials out there working hard to serve the citizens is this: Technology leaders are incredibly valuable to your team. They have a broad knowledge of government operations in the most detailed ways. They work hard to build relationships with their peers to grow an understanding of how things get done. And they have a unique way of breaking down problems into manageable chunks to provide the tools that benefit the organization.Just about everything in government today has a technology component to make it work. Why wouldn't you want the technology leader at the big table when the big decisions get made? The CIO should be in the same discussions that require the CEO, the CFO and the rest of the C-Suite.Meeting the challenges of the pandemic has shown as never before that technology is a vital component in ensuring that government services can be provided efficiently and effectively in a remote work environment. Funding sources are becoming available to get more stuff done, and the CIO is in a unique strategic position that brings together all of the parts: people, process and technology. No one can predict how things will play out in a pandemic and post-pandemic world, but government's top leaders should always keep in mind the wise advice of the management philosopher Peter Drucker: "The best way to predict the future is to create it." European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen says she has placed herself in isolation after being in contact with a person infected with coronavirus. The head of the EU's executive arm took part in a meeting in Portugal last Tuesday that was attended by Portuguese state councillor Antonio Lobo Xavier 'who yesterday tested positive'. She said she tested negative for the virus on Thursday and that she will undergo another test later today. Ms Von der Leyen, who attended a two-day summit of EU leaders in Brussels on Thursday and Friday last week, said she will be in quarantine until Tuesday morning. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen says she has placed herself in isolation after being in contact with a person infected with coronavirus last Tuesday in Cascais, Portugal Her isolation will keep her close to work, however. She has a small living quarters next to her office in the EU headquarters in Brussels. Ms Von der Leyen said: 'Ive been informed that I participated in a meeting last Tuesday attended by a person who yesterday tested positive for COVID-19. 'In accordance with regulations in force, Im therefore self-isolating until tomorrow morning. Ive tested negative on Thursday and am tested again today.' Two weeks ago, EU Council president Charles Michel was forced to postpone a summit of EU leaders because he was quarantining. The summit went ahead on Thursday and Friday last week and was attended by Ms Von der Leyen. Ms Von der Leyen took part last Tuesday in a special meeting of Portugal's state council in the coastal town of Cascais, on the outskirts of Lisbon. State councillor Antonio Lobo Xavier tested positive for the virus on Sunday. The meeting was attended physically by 15 of the 19 members of the president's advisory body. Two weeks ago, EU Council president Charles Michel (pictured) was forced to postpone a summit of EU leaders because he was quarantining Portugal's president, prime minister and the parliamentary president and five state councillors were tested on Sunday and were negative, media reported. It is up to individual commissioners to decide what travel and which in-person meetings are essential, according to Commission protocol. Von der Leyen's team has said her Lisbon trip was essential and justified deviating from the Commission's rule banning most business trips. More tests are taking place today. Boris Johnson has set an October 15 deadline for deciding whether a post-Brexit trade deal is possible as the UK and EU agreed to 'intensify' talks. Boris Johnson (pictured last week) and Ursula Von Der Leyen 'took stock' of progress in the fraught negotiations in a call on Saturday night The PM told Ms Von der Leyen that 'time is running out' to break the deadlock over fishing rights and state aid rules. Amid fears that Brussels will try to run down the clock to secure concessions, Mr Johnson made clear in a phone call on Saturday night that Britain is ready to trade on 'Australian' terms - without any framework in place. Unless the structure of a deal has emerged by the time of a summit of EU leaders on October 15, the UK has threatened to walk away and focus on preparing for that outcome. Wrangling and rhetoric has escalated in recent weeks as the crunch moment in the trade discussions looms. The 'standstill' transition period is set to end on January 1 whether or not there is an agreement. New Delhi, Oct 5 : The Akhil Bhartiya Vidhyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Delhi, and the students of Indian Agriculture Research Institute (IARI) on Monday urged Union Minister of State (MoS) for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Kailash Choudary, to extend the fellowship for the fourth year students in view of the Covid-19 pandemic. The student's body, along with few scholars from the IARI, met Choudhary and submitted a memorandum requesting the minister to approve an extension of the fellowship provided to the students of IARI. The Indian Agricultural Research Institute, commonly known as Pusa Institute, is the country's premier institute for agricultural research and education. It has the status of a 'deemed-to-be-university' under the UGC Act of 1956, and awards M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees in various agricultural disciplines. The ABVP said that the lockdown and the prevailing Covid-19 situation had created barriers to research and lab works, hindering the completion of research projects. "Many students may need a year to complete their research projects as they missed the cropping season due to the lockdown," Siddharth Yadav, state secretary, ABVP-Delhi, said. "As a consequence of the prevailing Covid-19 pandemic situation, the students of IARI are unable to complete their committed research work within the stipulated time period. Most of the students have faced problems such as loss of cropping season, spoilage of microbial culture/samples, outsourcing problems such as non-availability of chemicals, technical assistance etc. "Many students may have to restart their work from scratch and hence need at least one more year to complete the research work that they have undertaken," Yadav explained. Meanwhile, the students' body informed that the minister assured them that he will discuss the matter with the DG, IARI. "The research work in the field of agriculture depends on the availability of labs and hence has suffered due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It is thus the responsibility of the government to ensure that these problems are addressed, and students are given necessary respite at the earliest. The discussion with the MoS was fruitful and we received a positive response. We look forward to quick redressal of the problems brought to the ministry's notice by ABVP," Yadav added. In nine out of the 10 most competitive Senate races, Democrats have outspent Republicans on advertising. Axios reported Monday that Democrats have spent $327 million for advertising on those Senate races, versus the $259 million spent by Republicans. In North Carolina that, alone, amounted to $38 million. The report looked at spending from January to October 2020 in Alaska, Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, Montana and North Carolina. North Carolina Democratic Senate candidate Cal Cunningham (left) had $38 million more at his disposal for political advertising than his GOP rival, Sen. Thom Tillis, while Iowa Democrat Theresa Greenfield (right) had $21 million more than GOP Sen. Joni Ernst Democrats spent more than $60 million to help Arizona Senate hopeful Mark Kelly (left) and Montana Senate candidate Steve Bullock (right), who's the state's former governor and briefly ran for president in the 2020 cycle In those 10 states, Democrats are only defending incumbents in two of them: Sen. Doug Jones in Alabama and Sen. Gary Peters on Michigan. The other eight races represent potential Democratic pick-ups. Ad spending in North Carolina represents the most money. Democrats have spent $116 million to elect Cal Cunningham - who had been waylaid by a sexting scandal before Republican incumbent Sen. Thom Tillis tested positive for the coronavirus Friday. Tillis had already received flack for his handling of the virus - including posing for a picture with a mask on at President Donald Trump's Republican National Convention speech on the White House's South Lawn, only to be captured seated in the audience bare-faced. Republicans have spent $78 million in advertising trying to defend Tillis' seat. After North Carolina, Democrats have spent $87 million trying to take away Repubican Sen. Joni Ernst's Senate seat in Iowa, backing challenger Theresa Greenfield. Republicans have spent $66 million on the race. Democratic advertising in Arizona and Montana also topped $60 million. In Arizona, astronaut Mark Kelly - the husband of former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords - is challenging Republican Sen. Martha McSally. In Montana, the state's former governor who briefly ran for the Democratic nomination in 2020, Steve Bullock, is taking on Republican Sen. Steve Daines. In both cases, Republicans were outspent by around $20 million. Paul Edwards is just a year away from introducing Fall Creek area children and parents to the brand new Elementary School No. 30. The new principal is helping the district prepare the school for an Aug. 2021 opening. CORONAVIRUS: Crosby High School temporarily closes after 10 students diagnosed with COVID-19 Elementary 30s design calls for a student capacity of 950 students and features several areas for play-based learning in addition to flexible seating in classrooms that provide a better environment. It will support a growing area and reduce the impact of population growth in the Lake Houston area on Fall Creek and Ridge Creek elementary schools. The $30 million-plus education facility was funded through the $575 million 2018 Bond Referendum. Ive come to recognize as an educator that the schools in our community have become kind of the centerpiece and the focus of the community, Edwards said. Im really envisioning our school really embracing that kind of mindset, meaning our community members feel welcome there, they feel like they can contribute to the school and be present. They just feel like theyre a part of our family. Edwards, who has 16 years of experience in education, is returning to Humble ISD after working as a principal at Emerson Elementary School in Everett, Washington. Before that, he was a Summer Creek High School associate principal from 2011 to 2013 and was the Coordinator of Secondary Science and Health from 2008 to 2011. He has also served as the lead pastor of missions and administration for United City Church in Humble. This is not the first time Edwards has left and returned to Humble ISD he attended Woodland Hills Elementary and Kingwood Middle School before moving north to Richardson, where he attended Berkner STEM Academy. By going to Washington state, Edwards was able to see different ways to approach the education system. In his elementary school, 27 languages were spoken and a third of their students were English learners. The Edwards file Family: Elementary School No. 30 Principal Paul Edwards and his wife Amanda have five sons - Elijah, Isaiah, Josiah, Samuel, and Zachary - who are all Humble ISD students at Woodcreek Middle School or Summer Creek High School. Past position: Edwards was principal at Emerson Elementary School in Everett, Washington. Humble ISD ties: Before heading to Washington State, Edwards was a Summer Creek High School associate principal from 2011 to 2013 and was the Coordinator of Secondary Science and Health from 2008 to 2011. He also attended Woodland Hills Elementary and Kingwood Middle School as a child. College: Edwards has a bachelor's degree from Texas Tech and masters degrees from Lamar and the University of Houston. See More Collapse Im excited about kids from different backgrounds and different places being all together under one umbrella, Edwards said. ... I want our school to find ways to serve our community and be a good neighbor as well. EDUCATION: Validated by scathing report, HISD special ed advocates question whether state can deliver change Edwards is focused on making Elementary 30 a place where students go home excited, talking about everything they learned that day. I learned this mantra from one of my mentors a few years back, and Ive just kind of adopted it. I just see us doing everything we can to make school the best part of a students day, Edwards said. That means were going to have a fun environment, were going to have a welcoming environment. My goal is that kids are just super excited to go to school every single day. Academically, Edwards said they are looking at STEM based programming because he wants to embed a problem solving mindset in their students. There are robotics and programming technologies available for students to use interactive tools to learn valuable lessons and gain interest in the STEM fields. He said students get really excited about programming basic robots and when the time is over for that activity they get a little sad because they want to spend their whole day on that learning opportunity. And believe it or not, the little folks can grasp that stuff pretty quickly too, and they have a lot of fun with it, Edwards said. You just have to begin at a very simple level with the programming, but as you move up through the grade levels we get more and more complex. Renew Houston: Get the latest wellness news delivered to your inbox As previously reported, the attendance zone at Elementary 30 voted on during the Sept. 8 board meeting is not rigid and will offer the option of a flex zone, covering planning units 3F and 3G, just to the west of the new campus. Neighborhoods in this zone include Stonegrove Fall Creek, Woods Edge, Forest Glade, Water Crest, Deer Creek and Hunters Crossing. In this case, if a parent or guardian in the flex zone area chooses for their child to attend Fall Creek Elementary School, the transfer is automatically accepted but they are responsible for transportation, according to Deputy Superintendent Roger Brown. Now that they have official boundary lines, Edwards has been working on his plans for outreach for about three months and is excited to be able to start implementing it. Edwards is scheduling times at both Fall Creek and Ridge Creek Elementary once a month for a coffee with the principal event. He will give a short presentation on the school, will show some At these events, Edwards is giving parents and guardians a chance to sign up for a one-on-one 45-minute time slot with him where he will ask about the families to get some insight into how they think, what they need from the school and what they need from him in which he hopes to grow strong relationships in the community. Im excited about the boundaries, Im happy that weve got them, Edwards said. Our house is not very far from where the new school is so I feel like Im kind of on a mission right here in my own community which is really, really cool. I get to invest right here, its not like I live somewhere very far away, I get to invest in kids and families right here. So I think that probably excites me the most about all of this and our school I think is coming at exactly the right time. For more information about Elementary 30, visit www.humbleisd.net/es30. savannah.mehrtens@chron.com AMG DCT Enough time has passed since the reveal for us all to want an update on the car, anddelivered on Monday, October 5, with the release of a new set of images of the Black Series proudly sporting an orange overall while on the track.Looking even meaner than any other GT of AMG-make, the Black Series sets itself apart through one important distinction: its engine. Still a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo, the powerplant went through so many changes it required a new internal designation.M178 LS2 is how the carmaker calls it, and the main difference from what came before it is the fact that it no longer uses a cross-plane configuration, but a flat-plane one. This change should bring a host of performance highlights, including instant throttle response.Controlled through a seven-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT7G dual-clutch transmission, the engine sends all its 730 hp to the rear wheels for some impressive figures: naught to 62 mph is achieved in 3.2 seconds, while the 124 mph mark is passed in under nine seconds. The cherry on the cake, the top speed of the AMG-machine is 202 mph (325 kph).For now, Mercedes did not reveal any official information about the U.S. pricing for the model, but expectations are the tag will read something in the vicinity of $400,000 - in Europe, the value is 335,240 euros. Thats double the price of most other German GTs out there.Until we get confirmation of that though, make sure to check out the gallery above: not only does it contain the new images of the car as released by the Germans, but also the ones from the July reveal. A 16-year-old passenger has died after a vehicle rolled several times west of Brisbane. Police said the vehicle left Dalby Cecil Plains Road and rolled about 10.30pm on Monday at Cecil Plains. The teen died at the scene. The other occupants of the vehicle, an 18-year-old female driver and a 16-year-old female passenger, survived the crash and were taken to Dalby Hospital with neck, back and abdominal injuries. A 19-year-old male passenger, who also survived, was assessed at the scene but declined ambulance transport to hospital. Google says it will delay the mandatory use of its own payment gateway for in-app purchases for India. Google's new policy mandates all in-app purchases be processed through its own payment gateway. Google has today announced that they will delay the enforcement of the app-store policy regarding in-app purchases for India. The enforcement, which comes into effect in September 2021, has been delayed to April 2022 for India only. The announcement comes hot on the heels of a protest by Indian startups who are opposed to Google forcing all app developers to use Googles payment method to process in-app payments. Interestingly, this has been the policy for a while, but Google never really enforced it, until now, when it has come under the scanner for anti-competitive practices when it comes to the Play Store. Google announced that it would delay enforcing its payment policy after serious opposition raised by Indian startups such as PayTM, Razorpay, IndiaMART etc. The startups claim that Google has been unfair in the way it creates and implements policies on the Play Store. The latest spat began with Google delisting the PayTM app from the Play Store for violating policies regarding gambling. PayTM and other Indian app developers cried foul, stating that Google waited till the very last minute, just days before the IPL season kicked off. Further, Google recently announced that it will be forcing all app developers to use Googles own payment methods for In-App purchases, effectively cutting into 30 percent of the app developers revenue. This means that apps like PayTM and similar ones will no longer be able to use their own payment framework, and will instead have to use Googles and hence give a 30 percent cut to the Mountain View giant. In response, Shekhar Vijay Sharma of PayTM has announced that PayTM will now push its own Mini App-store, which already houses a number of popular apps. PayTM says that it will not charge developers any commission for using its payment system or the UPI payment gateway but will levy a 2% charge on other instruments such as credit cards. It is intriguing to see Google double down on forcing everyone to use the companys payment system for in-app purchases, when it is exactly this behaviour that sparked Epic Games to take both Apple and Google to court. While Google does say that they will make it easier for users to install third-party app stores on their Android devices in Android 12, their behaviour so far has been contrary to the open-source tenet of Android. While Android allows you to side load apps, Google actively discourages users to do so, warning them of potential malware and other such attacks. Google does this irrespective of the source from which the app is downloaded, which is what eventually forced Epic to release Fortnite on Android. Following the Michigan Supreme Courts ruling on the governors emergency powers, St. Clair County health officials are encouraging residents to stay the course with COVID-19 prevention measures. Michigans Supreme Court ruled Oct. 2 that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer did not have the authority to extend or declare states of emergency beyond April 30 in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. The St. Clair County Health Department has been encouraged by the control of viral transmission in our community and urges everyone to continue to support wearing masks/face coverings and practicing social distancing within their establishment and when in public, Dr. Annette Mercatante, medical health officer at the St. Clair County Health Department, said in a news release. St. Clair County or the community cannot risk losing control of viral transmission at this critical time and have only these few basic tools to manage this risk. The health department will continue to monitor the data and make data-driven decisions as we move forward. County officials added that private businesses and the public sector have the authority, rights and responsibility to require masks and other policies to assure the safety and health of their staff and clients. Health department officials encouraged and recommended that people continue the same practices and policies established under the executive orders. Our job has not changed, Mercatante said. We are appealing to peoples desire to do the right thing and use the preventive measures we know work. St. Clair County has seen relatively stable COVID activity for the past 10 weeks, so we know that the actions and policies applied so far have been effective. We are working hard to keep our students in school, keep our businesses and government open and make progress in our economic recovery. St. Clair County does not want to see our success unravel and see cases and deaths increase. If this happens, we all suffer. The health department will continue to keep the community informed. For more information, call the St. Clair County COVID-19 informational hotline at 810-966-4163 , email covid19@stclaircounty.org or visit scchealth.co. MediaNews Group staff The Draconids in 2018 over Vladivostok (Photo by Yuri Smityuk\TASS via Getty Images) The Draconid meteor shower could see shooting stars light up the evening skies over Britain this week. The annual Draconid meteor shower will go on until the 16th October, but the peak is expected this week on October 8. Stargazers are advised that the best time to see the meteor shower is in the evening (unlike most meteor showers, which peak in the early hours), according to Royal Museums Greenwich. The Draconid meteors are caused when Earth collides with bits of debris shed by the comet 21P/Giacobini-Zinner. Watch: What is a Meteor shower? Read more: What are fast radio bursts, and why do they look like aliens? Theyre called Draconids, as the meteors appear to travel from a point near the head of Draco the Dragon, a constellation (which is visible all year for most people with a view of the northern sky). Space experts say that the Draconids can be a little unpredictable, and dont always deliver a big display. Bruce McClure of Earthsky writes, The Draconid shower is usually a sleeper, rarely offering more than five meteors per hour. But watch out if the Dragon awakes! The Draconid meteor shower produced awesome meteor displays in 1933 and 1946, with thousands of meteors per hour seen in those years. European observers saw over 600 meteors per hour in 2011. Were not expecting any outburst this year, in 2020. But, then, no one really knows for sure. For people who enjoy meteor showers, thats part of the fun! As a wise person once said, meteor showers are like fishing. You go, and sometimes you catch something. The comet orbits the sun once every 6.6 years, leaving tendrils of dust in its wake. Usually the Draconid meteor shower delivers no more than 10 to 20 meteors per hour at its peak. Read more: Astronomers find closest black hole to Earth Royal Museums Greenwich advise, "Meteor showers are best seen with a good, clear view of the stars on a night with no clouds. "Try to find somewhere with dark skies, an unobstructed horizon and very little light pollution Story continues Make sure there are no direct sources of light in your eyes, so that you can fully adapt to the local conditions and ensure that fainter meteors become visible. Theres no advantage to using binoculars or a telescope; just look up with your own eyes to take in the widest possible view of the sky. WATCH: Fireball streaks across sky over Pennsylvania Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 17:42 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4936858 1 Entertainment Education-and-Culture-Ministry,TVRI,telkom,Sejauh-Kumelangkah,Ucu-Agustin,copyright-infringement,copyright,copyright-issues Free Indonesian filmmaker Ucu Agustin has sent legal notices to the Education and Culture Ministry, state-owned telecommunications giant PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia (PT Telkom) and national broadcaster TVRI over alleged copyright infringement of her documentary film, Sejauh Kumelangkah (How Far Ill Go). On June 25, the film was aired at 9:30 a.m. Western Indonesia Time on TVRIs Belajar dari Rumah (BDR; Study from Home) educational program, a collaboration between TVRI and the ministry that supports students studying at home in keeping with the COVID-19 policies. Sejauh Kumelangkah was also aired on PT Telkoms online streaming platform, USeeTV. Ucu said that she had not given permission for either broadcast. Furthermore, the film had been cut from a runtime of 34 minutes and 26 seconds to 22 minutes and 58 seconds, which Ucu claimed had resulted in the loss of valuable messages from the film. She also reported numerous translation and subtitle errors. Sejauh Kumelangkah centers on the friendship between two visually impaired teenagers in the United States and Indonesia. It also touches on the issue of disability access to education and other public services. The film won an award at IF/Then Southeast Asia 2018, held by the New York-based Tribeca Film Institute and Indonesias In-Docs nonprofit institute, and also won Best Short Documentary at the 2019 Indonesian Film Festival (FFI). Meanwhile, Ucu had signed an exclusive rebroadcasting contract with Al-Jazeera International that carried a six-month holdback period. According to a statement received by The Jakarta Post, the issue began on April 25, when a staffer from the education ministry asked for recommendations on Indonesian movies and documentaries from In-Docs for airing on its BDR program. The ministry then selected Ucus Sejauh Kumelangkah and requested a high-resolution file of the film for submitting to the Film Censorship Institute (LSF). In-Docs refused the request, as it did not own the rights to Sejauh Kumelangkah, and because the ministry had not sent a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) to Al-Jazeera as required. After Sejauh Kumelangkah was broadcast on TVRI on June 25, In-Docs received Rp 1.5 million (US$ 101.13) transferred from an individual account on the same date. The ministry, TVRI and Telkom are alleged of violating articles 5, 9 and 113 of Law No. 28/2014 on intellectual property, as well as articles 7 and 52 of Law No. 14/2008 on the disclosure of public information. Ucu and her legal team from Amar Law Firm have demanded the ministry, TVRI and Telkom to issue a public apology. They also demanded that the ministry publicly disclose the budget for BDR, make the program more inclusive and hold a public awareness campaign on intellectual property rights. They have also demanded that TVRI and Telkom produce and air educational segments on intellectual property rights for 30 days at a runtime of 30 seconds for each segment. As compensation for breaching the documentarys rights, Ucu has asked that the ministry, TVRI and Telkom pay $80,000 to cover indebted production costs and potential losses to Al Jazeera International if the broadcaster were to report Ucu for breach of contract. Separately, a ministry representative told the Post that it had tried to find a solution, including mediation and facilitation in August of the demands from Ucu and her legal team. The ministry representative also expressed the hope that the matter would proceed in a manner that would not hinder its efforts to offer educational and cultural programs to the public amid the coronavirus emergency. On July 6, the ministry sent an apology and assisted USeeTV in removing Sejauh Kumelangkah from the streaming platform. On Aug. 10 and 18, the ministry attended a mediation with Ucus legal team. The ministrys culture director general, Hilmar Farid, said in a statement that the BDR program aired on TVRI was not commercialized and that the ministry did not make any profits whatsoever from the program. "With BDR, we were helping to find solutions for the education sector amid the pandemic by collaborating with filmmakers. We respect the law, and hope the matter will be resolved soon," he said. Then on Oct. 6, the ministry issued a clarification on the matter, saying that since the beginning of its collaboration with TVRI, it had prohibited the BDR program from airing cultural programs and Indonesian films with exclusive rights due to broadcasting and copyright restrictions. The ministry also claimed that it had not been informed about the exclusive rebroadcasting contract between Al-Jazeera and Ucu. Ucu and her legal team rejected the ministry's clarification the following day on Oct. 7, on the grounds that the ministry had been informed by In-Docs about the exclusive contract for Sejauh Kumelangkah that Ucu held with Al-Jazeera International when it requested the high-resolution file of the film. In addition, Ucu stated that the ministry had not issued a public apology. The July 6 apology was sent as a private email correspondence from the ministry's director of film, music and new media to In-Docs, and was not addressed to Ucu as the director and rights holder of the documentary. Furthermore, even though BDR was not a commercial program and the ministry did not profit whatsoever from rebroadcasting the film, Ucu asserted that Telkoms USeeTV platform was a video-on-demand streaming service that charged a fee. Ucu also reiterated her regret that the ministry had broadcast, cut and modified her documentary for the BDR program without permission. In response to the ministry and Telkoms claims that the pair had stopped offering Sejauh Kumelangkah on June 30, Ucu said that she was still able to access it on USeeTV on July 3. Referring to the ministry's statement about the mediation on Aug. 10 and 18, Ucu stated that the mediation took place over three days on Aug. 10, 18 and 28. The ministry did not attend the third day of the mediation and the process was regarded as unsuccessful, as the ministry, TVRI and Telkom were unwilling to issue a public apology and be transparent about their collaboration. In the latest developments, the ministry posted on Oct. 9 an apology on the Instagram account of the Culture Directorate General, expressing regret for rebroadcasting Ucu's Sejauh Kumelangkah without the filmmakers permission. It also claimed that it was committed to resolving the matter. On Oct. 12, however, Ucu and her legal team released a statement that the ministrys Instagram apology had not addressed the main issue. The apology had only mentioned "broadcasting the documentary" as the manner by which it had infringed the films copyright, and did not say that it had also cut, modified and redistributed the film without permission. Ucu added that the ministry had failed to meet her other demands, including publicly disclosing the BDR budget and paying $80,000 in compensation. The filmmaker also said that TVRI seemed reluctant to respond to her legal notice and appeared to have passed on its responsibility to the ministry. Furthermore, neither institution had revealed who had obtained and provided a copy of Sejauh Kumelangkah to USeeTV. Finally, Ucu said that her legal action was intended to protect intellectual property and disability rights, as well as uphold the law on public information disclosure. While the ministry had contacted her and requested another meeting, and although Ucu and her legal team were open to another meeting and settling the matter amicably, they remained steadfast in their demands and would take any necessary legal measures against the ministry, TVRI and Telkom. (wir/wng) ------------------- Editor's note: This article has been updated to include statements from the Education and Culture Ministry and Ucu Agustin. The Queen has highlighted the invaluable role played by news organisations in times of crisis and said the coronavirus pandemic has exposed the need for trusted reliable media sources. Her message was sent to the News Media Association, in conjunction with the industry bodys new Journalism Matters campaign, which launched on Monday. The Queen wrote: The Covid-19 pandemic has once again demonstrated what an important public service the established news media provides, both nationally and regionally. As our world has changed dramatically, having trusted, reliable sources of information, particularly at a time when there are so many sources competing for our attention, is vital. The efforts of the news media to support communities throughout the United Kingdom during the pandemic have been invaluable - whether through fundraising, encouraging volunteering, or providing a lifeline for the elderly and vulnerable to the outside world, she added. The News Media Association, which represents all major national and local newspaper publishers, launched its Journalism Matters campaign, calling for public and government support for established news outlets. The chairman, Henry Faure Walker, said in an article accompanying the Queens statement that the industry needed more support during one of the most disruptive and uncertain years in living memory. In the news media industry, part of our job has been to help our readers make sense of these unprecedented events, he said. We have reported on every twist and turn of the local and national lockdowns and kept you up to date with vital public health information. We have held power to account and robustly challenged the decision-makers on your behalf. Sometimes, our role has been to seek clarity amid confusion from the authorities, and toxic misinformation about coronavirus spread by bad actors on social media. Mr Faure Walker added that research shows the public place great value on news and trusted sources of information, as audiences have soared during the crisis. But our role goes much further than that, he said, pointing towards the organisations various campaigns and initiatives to help people stay informed and in touch with one another throughout the national and local lockdowns," he said. But he warned that the journalism industry has not been immune to challenges posed by the pandemic, particularly as many outlets have taken hits to advertising revenue over the course of the crisis, leaving them in a perilous position. We now urgently need Government to intervene with a series of targeted initiatives to help sustain local independent journalism in this country. And the relationship between the news media and the tech giants needs to be properly reset, he added. For too long, Google and Facebook have had a free pass at bring our journalism on their platforms, making huge profits, while contributing comparatively nothing back into the industry. This problem must be tackled urgently in order for journalism to have a bright future. 3 1 of 3 Jill Karnicki /Staff photographer Show More Show Less 2 of 3 JONAH M. KESSEL /NYT Show More Show Less 3 of 3 Of all the candidates we have met with over Zoom this election season, Chrysta Castaneda is one of the brightest stars in the political sky. The Democrat running for Texas Railroad Commissioner has the expertise in the oil and gas industry this position demands and deserves, along with the communication skills to explain complex issues in relatable and digestible ways. She would serve the public as an excellent industry watchdog, but also as an industry explainer. The Railroad Commission of Texas, which has nothing to do with railroads and would benefit from a name change, greatly needs such a dynamic presence. Saudi Arabias finance ministry seems to think that oil prices will stay around $50 a barrel for at least the next three years. Thats according to Goldman Sachs Group Inc.s analysis of the kingdoms pre-budget statement released last week. Using our own estimates for the breakdown of government revenues, we calculate that the numbers presented in the budget statement are based on an average oil price of around $50 a barrel between 2020 and 2023," said Farouk Soussa, an analyst at Goldman. Brent crude fell 6.3% to $39.27 a barrel last week as more countries tightened restrictions to counter the coronavirus pandemic and US President Donald Trump got infected, causing traders to fret about the outlook for energy demand. While oil at $50 would represent a 25% rise from current prices, it would still be far below the pre-pandemic level of around $65 and less than Saudi Arabia needs to balance its budget. Goldmans calculations are roughly in line with those of Cairo-based investment bank EFG Hermes, which said Saudi Arabia is basing next years budget on an oil price of $50 to $55. Goldman is itself more bullish, forecasting that Brent will climb to $65 by 2021-end. Saudi officials expect the countrys fiscal deficit to narrow to 5.1% of gross domestic product in 2021 from 12% this year as they cut spending, according to the statement. The kingdom tends to take a relatively conservative view of crude prices in drawing up its budget and doesnt divulge its assumptions, leaving analysts to estimate them from other projections. The finance ministry didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Saudi Arabia would need oil to trade at $66 to balance its budget in 2021, according to estimates from the International Monetary Fund. Saudi Arabias caution on prices comes as oil giants including BP Plc and Total SE predict the era of growing global demand for energy is over or coming to an end barely a decade from now. Thats especially a concern for countries such as Saudi Arabia, where oil accounted for nearly two-thirds of government revenue in 2019. In the second quarter, Saudi earnings from crude exports dropped to the lowest on a quarterly basis since at least 2016. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics MILWAUKEE, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Affiliates of Phoenix Investors ("Phoenix"), a national private commercial real estate firm headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, announced its acquisition of three industrial properties from Frog Properties totaling approximately 1,600,000 square feet. The acquisitions are located in Dresden, TN; Kingsport, TN; and Church Hill, TN. With the addition of these properties, Phoenix's growing portfolio spans 21 states and includes commercial properties in excess of 32 million square feet. The subject properties range in size from approximately 130,000 to 850,000 square feet and will allow for the expansion of Phoenix's affiliated logistics business, Phoenix Logistics, to support growing demand in that area of the United States for its services. Upon completion of renovation and modernization of the facilities, Phoenix plans to expand existing in-place tenants, and accommodate new businesses for occupancy. The 611,556 square-foot Dresden facility, anchored by Champion Homes, was originally occupied by Quebecor/World Color, and is located at 2073 Evergreen Street. Amenities at this location include an ample area for parking, 30 truck doors, flooring 8-12" thick to support heavy loads, 20-35' ceiling heights, and rail access with a 1500-foot rail platform. The Kingsport facility is located at 2497 Sherwood Road is improved with approximately 130,751 square feet of quality industrial space on 5.8 acres. Ceiling Heights are up to 20' clear, with ample column spacing and 8-12" thick reinforced concrete floors. In Church Hill, the facility is the former Quebecor World facility located at 121 Kingsport Press Road. The location is comprised of three industrial buildings totaling approximately 857,056 square feet. An interior 300-foot rail spur supports access to the Norfolk Southern Rail. Heavy power, ample docks for both truck and rail, and a diversified rent roll highlights the advantages of the in-place infrastructure at this location. "We are pleased to acquire three well-constructed industrial properties that are poised for a value-add repositioning and expand our growing presence in Tennessee," said David Marks, Phoenix's President and CEO. "We have been pleased by the pro-business attitude of Tennessee, and the support for our business model," said Frank P. Crivello, Phoenix's Chairman and Founder. "We look forward to applying our proven renovation and modernization methods to these buildings in an effort to provide attractive buildings at an affordable rental rate to our tenants." "Newmark Knight Frank was delighted to work with both the seller and buyer on this three-building transaction," said Michael Reid, Senior Managing Director at Newmark Knight Frank. "I credit Phoenix for their perseverance and significant time and resources invested to finalize the transaction. We look forward to working with Phoenix on multiple deals in the future." About Phoenix Investors Founded by Frank P. Crivello in 1994, Phoenix Investors and its affiliates (collectively "Phoenix") are a leader in the acquisition, development, renovation, and repositioning of industrial facilities throughout the United States. Utilizing a disciplined investment approach and successful partnerships with institutional capital sources, corporations, and public stakeholders, Phoenix has developed a proven track record of generating superior risk-adjusted returns, while providing cost-efficient lease rates for its growing portfolio of national tenants. Its efforts inspire and drive the transformation and reinvigoration of the economic engines in the communities it serves, currently encompassing over 32 million square feet. Phoenix continues to be defined by thoughtful relationships, sophisticated investment tools, cost-efficient solutions, and a reputation for success. For more information, please visit https://phoenixinvestors.com. SOURCE Phoenix Investors Related Links http://www.phoenixinvestors.com The most awaited press conference of the RJD-led opposition camp was being held in Patna on Saturday night. RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav was seated along with leaders of all the other parties of the RJD-Congress-Left parties grand alliance as the seat sharing arrangement between the parties was being announced. Not even 15 minutes after Tejashwi announced the seat sharing formula, according to which, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and Vikassheel Insan Party (VIP) were to be allotted seats from RJDs quota, an incident caught everyone by surprise. As soon as the microphone was handed to Mukesh Sahani the founder of VIP whom minutes ago Tejashwi had called his elder brother created a sensation by claiming to have been backstabbed by the RLD leader and stormed out of the press conference, and the alliance, with his supporters. Sahani has kept his options of joining NDA+ or Pappu Yadav-led JAP+ or fighting it out alone open for now. Sahani, who claimed to have been promised 25 seats and the position of a deputy Chief Minister, is unlikely to be wooed back by the RJD. In fact, smaller parties such as RLSP and VIP are finding it tough to find space in either JD(U)-BJP or RJD-Congress camps for the simple reason that these parties centered around strong personalities have not been able to transfer votes to larger parties, as RJD and Congress leaders found out in 2019 Lok Sabha polls when they led a rainbow coalition of VIP, RLSP and Hindustan Awam Morcha, Secular (HAMS). There is also the fact that since 2005, the electorate of Bihar has given very clear mandates to larger parties, leaving little room for smaller political outfits to grow. In the last assembly elections, HAMS fought on 21 seats and was successful on only one. Upendra Khushwaha-led RLSP fought on 23 seats but won only two. In the last Lok Sabha polls, all three parties put together fought on 11 seats but could not win even one. Even the three leaders drew a blank in the seats where they contested. Sahani himself lost by over 2.5 lakh votes to his rival from the LJP. The two other contestants from VIP lost by over four lakh votes. Jitan Ram Manjhi-led HAMS has been the only exception, in that after falling out with the grand alliance last month, Manjhi was accommodated by Nitish Kumar through JD(U)s quota of seats. But this may have happened due to other reasons, such as Nitish wanting a strong Dalit face on his side after his partys fallout with the LJP. Of all these three parties, Sahani-led VIP was the latest active entrant into Bihars active politics. In fact, this is only the second election that VIP has fought, but Sahani has already seen his fair share of ups and downs in Bihar politics. Sahanis political project in Bihar began around 2013 when he, on the back of a social movement he was running for the fishermen community called Nishad Vikas Sangh, started appearing in BJP-led events in the run up to 2014 general elections. Sahani was only 19 when he had fled his hometown in Bihars Khagaria to work in Mumbai as a salesperson. He went on to become a big-ticket set designer for films like Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Devdas and Salman Khan-starrer Bajrangi Bhaijaan. Though he still did not have his own political party then, Sahani started appearing with Amit Shah on stage during the last assembly election in 2015. He was seen in photographs of many closed door meetings attended by senior party leaders. But after BJPs loss in Bihar, Sahani was left in political wilderness for some time. He tried to rally his party cadre by attacking Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for allegedly not doing enough for the fishermen community and by demanding inclusion of fishermen, or Nishads, in the state list of Scheduled Tribes (STs). Known more popularly by the sobriquet Son of Mallah, Sahani finally founded his VIP in November 2018 and within six months of it was given three seats by the RJD in the last Lok Sabha polls. Several reports indicate that Sahani has come to New Delhi to discuss possibilities with senior BJP leaders to try and crack a last minute seat-sharing arrangement, although there has been no official confirmation of it. If it works out, Sahanis brief but eventful political career will come back to a full circle, and he would go back to rallying for the party which he first supported and then campaigned against. Scranton, PA (18503) Today Cloudy with snow showers developing during the afternoon. High 28F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 50%.. Tonight Snow showers before midnight. Becoming partly cloudy later. Low 6F. Winds light and variable. Chance of snow 50%. Armenias MFA considers that Azerbaijan is preparing the ground for the escalation of the war through a campaign of misinformation and falsifications. The aim of the disinformation campaign launched by Azerbaijan is to cover up the massive shelling of large settlements in Artsakh by the Azerbaijani Armed Forces from the very first days of the war,- states Armenias MFA spokesperson Anna Naghdalyan. The aggression of Azerbaijan against Artsakh with the support of Turkey and the involvement of the foreign terrorist fighters has been accompanied by the campaign of fake news and disinformation which goes beyond the limits of common sense. Having failed to achieve any success in the battlefield, the Azerbaijani side on one hand speaks about its imaginary gains, and on the other hand spreads fake news on the shelling of the Azerbaijani settlements by Armenia. The recent disinformation about the alleged strikes from the territory of Armenia to the Azerbaijani settlements is case in point. The aim of this disinformation campaign is to cover up the massive shelling of the large settlements of Nagorno-Karabakh by Azerbaijan since the first day of the war, which resulted in many losses among the civil population, while serious damage was inflicted upon the essential civilian infrastructure. With the spread of such fake news Azerbaijan also prepares grounds for the continuation of its criminal policy and for the extension of the geography of the war. India on Monday conducted a successful flight test of the Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) from Wheeler Island off the coast of Odisha. All mission objectives, including missile flight upto the range and altitude, separation of the nose cone, the release of Torpedo and deployment of Velocity Reduction Mechanism (VRM), were met perfectly in the flight test, the Press Information Bureau, the governments nodal agency, noted in a release. The tracking stations (Radars, Electro Optical Systems) along the coast and telemetry stations including down range ships monitored all the events, the release further noted. Watch: Anti-submarine weapon system SMART successfully test-fired Congratulating the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), defence minister Rajnath Singh tweeted, The DRDO has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART. This will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare. I congratulate DRDO and other stakeholders for this significant achievement. The @DRDO_India has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART. This will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare. I congratulate DRDO and other stakeholders for this significant achievement. Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) October 5, 2020 . SMART is a missile assisted release of lightweight Anti-Submarine Torpedo System for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations for far beyond torpedo range. This launch and demonstration are significant in establishing ASW capabilities. Dr G Satheesh Reddy, chairman, DRDO, described SMART as a game-changer technology demonstration in anti-submarine warfare. Mondays test comes after the DRDO successfully tested Laser-Guided Anti Tank Guided Missile on September 23 in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra. (With agency inputs) ALBANY Jamaica Miles started a new activist organization in February before all hell broke loose. The longtime Capital Region activist had a vision to organize her hometown of Schenectady. All of Us, her new organization, was her solution, focusing on issues and changes needed in Schenectady. But then Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor were killed, and the organization quickly pivoted to rally for Black lives. The killing of George Floyd, however, was what changed everything. Thousands of people in the Capital Region flooded the streets crying Floyds name, and more activist organizations began popping up. While the most prevalent activist organizations in the Capital Region used to be Albany's Citizen Action of New York and Troy 4 Black Lives, that number has multiplied this past summer to nearly 10 groups most of which were founded in the wake of Floyds killing. It was this volcanic eruption of feelings and frustration that needed a space to go to, Miles said. There is no one organization that can hold all issues and all people. People look for spaces to be in and it looks different for different people. Others created their own. Some with their own experience and some with none. One of those groups is E.L.E.V.A.T.E. 518. Founded in June by a group of Black women in their late teens and early 20s, E.L.E.V.A.T.E. 518s main goal is to create a space for Black women to express themselves and become a leading voice in community conversations. As members of the group attended the numerous protests taking place across the region, they quickly realized not many women were leading those protests despite the fact that many were in the crowd. So they made space for themselves. It's just a sisterhood that is based off of amplifying these Black and brown womens voices, said Destini Harris, a co-founder of the group. Its something that often gets shut out or people dont see or hear about it, so they think its just not existent. At their debut march Aug. 1, well over 100 people turned out, but only Black women held the megaphone and its been the same at every event since. The August event was focused on amplifying the experiences of Black women, and the names of Black women who died many of which the crowd did not recognize. It's all part of one of the most energized activist moments in Capital Region history. Its a perfect storm, Miles said. Were not just in the middle of all of this racial injustice but we are also in the middle of a global pandemic where there were groups of people who previously were not impacted by the systems and structures to the degree marginalized folks were, and they woke up one morning and realizing, Oh my God, this injustice really does exist and now its impacting me, too. Special Investigation 147 NY dams are 'unsound,' potentially dangerous Thousands of dams have not been inspected in over 20 years. As that energy picked up and more groups were created, it quickly became a clear to the activist community that a coalition needed to be built across groups. Many of the same activists show up to protests in Albany, Troy, Schenectady and Saratoga uniting together in their common goal. Protests have happened in front of Bumpy's Ice Cream in Schenectady, where the operator was accused of sending racist texts, to the streets of Saratoga Springs, where the city council this past week just set up more stringent guidelines after protesters were alongside outdoor diners on Phila Street. The beast that were fighting, it has many heads, many legs, many arms. There are many ways in which we have to attack it, said Shawn Young, co-founder of All of Us. I think its important that as each organization joins the fight, we support one another and understand that theres not just one way to do this. Many of E.L.E.V.A.T.E. 518s events and social media posts, for example, are focused on pushing people to fill out their census, mobilizing people to register to vote and raising awareness about education budget cuts this year. Youth Political Alliance is another grassroots organization that was founded two months ago to dismantle political systems they believe harm communities of color by spreading awareness and mobilizing young voters. While at the moment the organization is focused on voter turnout in November, they have longer-term plans to support progressive candidates who run for office. I experienced a forced reckoning with how really corrupted and broken the system that governance and control are, Aden Suchak, co-founder of Youth Political Alliance, said. The main thing for me is the structure of the way that things are done, and the relationships between different organizations of government that we have. We need to recycle leadership. A 14-year-old girl allegedly gang-raped by four men in Spain was forced to have sex with a man after the attack in return for a lift home, according to a report. The suspects, who have not been named, were remanded in custody by a judge in Ontinyent, in the Valencia region, on Saturday. A man who had taken her to the party is alleged to have demanded sex from her to drive her home afterwards, according to newspaper El Levante El Mercantil Valenciano. It is unclear if that individual took part in the gang rape or if he was the fifth man to attack the teenager that night. The suspects, who have not been named, were remanded in custody by a judge in Ontinyent, in the Valencia region, on Saturday (pictured: one of the men is led to a police car in handcuffs) A suspect is taken into custody by police Police officers make arrests in the town of Ontinyent in the Valencia region It was also revealed that another person alleged to have participated in the sexual assault was underage, and therefore, is not being kept in preventive custody while his case is being investigated. All four of the others were sent to a prison in the Spanish municipality of Picassent despite their defence claims that the sexual relations were consensual. There have been no reports on the ages or identities of the suspects. The rape allegedly occurred at a birthday party of one of the victim's friends in the Valencian town of Xativa on the night of September 26. Around 20 people are believed to have attended the alcohol-fuelled party, most of them were young adults aged 18 to 25, but some minors were also there. Authorities were first alerted by the victim's mother after the 14-year-old told a friend, which somehow then made it back to her mother. Supporters of the victim protest outside the court in Ontinyent Police lead one of the suspects to their car Police officers at the scene last week Police conducted six detentions in the following two days. One of the suspects was let go the same day as he is underaged. Another was released because he did not actively participate in the alleged gang rape but has been charged with failure in the duty to assist. The suspect who is a minor gave a statement to the Spanish Civil Guard and is set to do the same with the District Attorney's Office for Minors which will decide if he is allowed to remain free until his trial. It is unclear if they have been given a trial date. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 20:20:34|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close JAKARTA, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Indonesia's anti-terror police have arrested four suspected terrorists with alleged ties to the Al-Qaeda-affiliated militant network Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), the national police said. National Police spokesperson Argo Yuwono said in a statement on Monday that the suspects were arrested separately in the West Java province, in places including the Bekasi city located on the eastern border of the capital Jakarta. The police's anti-terror squad has also seized books about jihadism and improvised firearms and sharp weapons in arresting the four suspects. The Indonesia-based extremist Jemaah Islamiyah group was behind the 2002 Bali bombings which killed more than 200 people on the Indonesian holiday island. It was declared an illegal organization in 2018. Enditem Actor Sushant Singh Rajputs sister Shweta Singh Kirti has demanded an investigation into an alleged U-turn by Dr Sudhir Gupta, who was heading an AIIMS panel re-evaluating the actors post-mortem report. Shweta shared a report by a news channel that alleged Dr Gupta had earlier pointed out lapses in the Mumbai Polices investigation into Sushants death but has now said that the actor died by suicide. On Saturday, while speaking to media, Dr Gupta said that Sushant died by suicide and was not murdered. There were no injuries on the body other than of hanging. There were no marks of struggle/scuffle on the body and clothes of the deceased, Dr Gupta told ANI, adding, The presence of any seductive material was not detected by Bombay FSL and AIIMS toxicology lab. The complete examination of ligature mark over the neck was consistent with hanging. He had called their report conclusive. The Central Bureau of Investigation, which is probing the death, is yet to comment on the AIIMS report. Republic TV has now released an earlier interview with the doctor, in which he raised questions about how the Cooper Hospital and the Mumbai Police had conducted their investigations into Sushants death. In the August interview, he is seen mentioning that the crime scene has not been kept intact and how there was contamination of evidence. In a WhatsApp conversation, he also said, The panel of five doctors of Cooper conducted autopsy...only one is junior level forensic doctor...rest 4 are just medical officer. The panel must be of forensic specialist as per norms. Who constituted the medical board? What was justification for the medical board...by the police? Sharing a screenshot of the report, Shweta wrote, This kind of U-Turn must be explained!! #SushantConspiracyExposed #SushantAIIMSTape. In another tweet, she asked, Why? Reacting to the reports, Sushants family lawyer Vikas Singh had tweeted, Highly perturbed with AIIMS report. Going to request CBI Director to constitute a fresh Forensic team . How could AIIMS team give a conclusive report in the absence of the body,that too on such shoddy post mortem done by Cooper hospital wherein time of death also not mentioned. Shweta also retweeted Ishkaran Singh Bhandari, a lawyer fighting for justice for Sushant Singh Rajput. The tweet reads, Not Surprised at what Repuplic showed. Dr Sudhir Gupta had talked to me also & had many suspicions on Mumbai autopsy. Why did he change & did opposite, needs investigation. Sushant died on June 14. The case, which was being investigated by the Mumbai Police, is now being probed by the CBI. The actors father, KK Singh, has filed abetment of suicide case against his girlfriend Rhea Chakraborty. Parallel investigations are also being carried out by the Enforcement Directorate and the Narcotics Control Bureau. Rhea was arrested by the NCB on a drugs-related charge on September 9. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON New applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in health care settings have shown early success in improving survival and outcomes in traffic accident victims transported by ambulance and in predicting survival after liver transplantation, according to two research studies presented at the virtual American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress 2020. Both studies evaluated how AI can crunch massive amounts of data to support decision-making by surgeons and other care providers at the point of care. In one study, researchers at the University of Minnesota applied a previously published AI approach known as natural language processing (NLP)1 to categorize treatment needs and medical interventions for 22,529 motor vehicle crash patients that emergency medical service (EMS) personnel transported to ACS-verified Level I trauma centers in Minnesota. According to a 2016 study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 20 percent of medical injury deaths are potentially preventable2 representing a quality gap the researchers sought to address. Reviewing the performance of EMS teams to profile potentially preventable deaths can enable quality improvement efforts to reduce these deaths. Currently this process for performance review is manual, time-consuming, and expensive. AI allows possible automation of this process." Christopher James Tignanelli, MD, Study Senior Author, FACS NLP is an AI protocol that extracts key data from spoken or written text that providers--EMS personnel in this study--enter into the electronic record as a key component of their report. Dr. Tignanelli is an assistant professor of surgery, division of acute care surgery, at the University of Minnesota Medical School, and affiliate faculty at the Institute for Health Informatics at the University of Minnesota. In this study, two trauma surgeons independently and manually reviewed a random selection of 1 percent of patient records and determined treatment needs and medical interventions. To evaluate the accuracy of the AI system, the manual determinations were compared with the NLP determinations. "Overall the algorithm performed with very high accuracy," Dr. Tignanelli said. Typically after EMS personnel enter their notes into the electronic health record, oversight personnel cull through them and determine whether the patient received appropriate care, usually a week or so afterward. "That's quite a labor-intensive process," said presenting author Jacob Swann, MD, a burn and trauma fellow at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minn. "The goal of this project and what it validated was to automate a lot of those notes." The NLP approach ran those notes through an algorithm to separate the notes of consequential medical interventions from less consequential ones. "That can streamline the manual review process," Dr. Swann said. "It's not performed at the accuracy level that would allow you to take the physician out of it and say that AI can determine with complete accuracy if the standard of care was given or not, but it does perform well." The AI pipeline Dr. Swann and colleagues studied determined that only about one quarter (242 of 936) patients who needed an airway intervention actually got one before they arrived at the hospital, and that about two-thirds (110 of 170) of those who did not have adequate intravenous access and needed access into the bone, known as intraosseous (IO) access, during advance cardiac life support did receive IO access. "Being able to identify systemic errors allows you to improve the entire health system," Dr. Swann said. "Having the ability to look at large aggregate data and go through 330,000 charts over several minutes with an AI-reading algorithm, to identify specific areas for potential improvement--whether it's getting intravenous access in our patients or having problems with splinting long bone fractures--allows you separate the signal from the noise and then figure out where the problem lies." The "holy grail," noted Dr. Swann, is to have an AI system that can listen and observe EMS personnel during en route care and assist with complex decision making by recommending care options in real time. For the second AI study, researchers at Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, tested four different machine-learning models for predicting survival after liver transplantation. The two models that showed high accuracy for predicting survival are known as the Random Forest and AdaBoost models. Lead author Rowland Pettit, MD-PhD candidate at Baylor, explained that Random Forest (RF) is an ensemble learning method that combines the outputs of multiple decision trees and predicts an outcome by a "majority wins" approach. The models took into account a total of 324 disease characteristics to determine survivability. The strongest factors were acuity of illness and the recipient's disease course, Mr. Pettit said. The study selected all 109,742 adult patients who had one liver transplant from the United Network of Organ Sharing database since its inception in 1984. The RF model showed an accuracy, reported as area under the curve, of 80 percent for predicting survival at one month, 79 percent at three months, 75 percent at one year, and 73 percent at three and five years. None of the other models showed predictability exceeding 70 percent. "The most readily accessible application of these models would be for regulation, providing immediate feedback to clinicians about their outcomes for the past year and how they and their centers performed compared to others," Mr. Pettit said. "Being able to accurately predict whether a patient should have survived or not is crucial to then accurately providing feedback." This type of AI model also has the potential to integrate with electronic medical record systems and physician workflows to provide benchmarks, he added. "It would be very easy with an integrated model to run predictions for every patient on a liver transplant waiting list in real time and determine the probability of each patient living at one, three or five years," he said. "This step is not to make the decision for the clinician, but to add a further clinician-assistance decision-making tool to give them quantitative data for use in organ allocation decisions." Senior author of the Baylor AI study is Abbas A. Rana, MD, FACS, assistant professor of surgery, division of abdominal transplantation, Baylor College of Medicine. Study coauthors are Stuart Corr, PhD; and Jim Havelka, MBA, of Baylor College of Medicine. Coauthors of the Minnesota AI study on traffic accident victims are Greg M. Silvermann; Elizabeth A. Lindemann; Lori Boland, MPH; Jon C. Gibson, MD; Charles J. Lick, MD; Benjamin C. Knoll; Serguei Pakhomov, PhD; and Genevieve B. Melton, MD, PhD, all of the University of Minnesota. Mr. Pettit and Drs. Rana and Swann have no disclosures related to this research. Dr. Tignanelli disclosed having a patent pending for an AI model. His coauthors have no disclosures related to this research. Ahead of the October 10 governorship election in Ondo State which is about five days from now, 10 out of the participating 17 political ha... Ahead of the October 10 governorship election in Ondo State which is about five days from now, 10 out of the participating 17 political have withdrawn from the governorship race. The 10 political parties which disclosed this on Monday resolved to support Eyitayo Jegede who is the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. The parties are Accord Party, Action Alliance, Action Democratic Party, APGA, and AAC. Others include, APM, APP, NNPP, NRM, and SDP Speaking on behalf of the political parties at the PDP secretariat in Akure, the Ondo State capital, the Chairman of Social Democratic Party, Prince Oladele Ogunbameru said the decision was made at a meeting held on October 4, 2020 with the party leaders and chieftains of the PDP. According to the SDP Chairman, the move was borne out of their commitment to good governance in the state, which they believe can only be offered by the PDP. Reacting to the development, the State chairman of the PDP, Fatai Adams said the support from the 10 political parties indicated acceptability of Jegede which shows that the party will emerge victorious at the poll. (Natural News) A motorist was attacked in his car by a mob blocking a road in Louisville. (Article republished from GunFreeZone.net) One of the members of the mob, a convicted felon pulled a gun on the driver, and the driver drew a gun on the mob. After a protester was arrested Friday for pointing a gun at a motorist during a march in east Louisville, some in the crowd want to know why the driver wasnt taken into custody as well. Both the protester and the motorist pointed guns, according to Kentucky Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression co-chair Tyra Walker, who witnessed the encounter after a protest at Attorney General Daniel Camerons office. Louisville Metro Police spokesman Lamont Washington said in an emailed statement that the driver was not arrested because he was the victim in the incident and no charges against him are expected. Robin Ash, 34, was arrested without incident, according to LMPDs Facebook post. Metro Corrections records show she faces felony charges of wanton endangerment, criminal mischief and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon. The incident took place Friday afternoon, as demonstrators walked down Hurstbourne Parkway near Shelbyville Road. A silent aerial video released on the LMPDs Facebook page Saturday shows a car stop in the street by the protesters, and several people walk up to the vehicle. After several seconds, a woman runs toward the car and points what appears to be a handgun three times at the vehicle. Members of the crowd usher her away, and several seconds later she appears to hand the object to someone else walking on the street. Another person in the crowd is seen kicking the rear of the car as others try to create distance between the driver and the people in the street. Ash claims that she acted in self defense against the driver who was the aggressor, despite video evidence to the contrary. This is the Gaigr Grosskreutz defense, where the armed criminal who attacked first claims self defense against the person he/she attacked. The police posted video to Facebook. A protester captured video which was posted online. They claim he was trying to run protesters over be it seems like he swerved around one who was in the turning lane. If he was trying to hit protesters, he did a bad job of it. Now the mob is trying to doxx him. https://twitter.com/TravisAllen02/status/1307801884481253378 They block the road, they attack his car, they threaten him with a gun, now they want to ruin his life because he defended himself and didnt let the mob beat him up. The mob wants you at its mercy, afraid and unable to stop them. By the way, this man was fired by his employer for this and the Lincoln Project is taking part in the attempt to cancel this man because thats conserving conservatism. This is why DeSantis legislative push is so important, and I hope Trump does the same for interstates under DOT jurisdiction. The people who block roads and threaten drivers with guns dont get to claim victim status from those people who choose to defend themselves. Read more at: GunFreeZone.net A group of parents at one of New York's toniest private schools -- where tuition runs $54,180 a year -- is unhappy about the quality of their children's education during the pandemic. The Dalton School -- whose alumni include actress Claire Danes and journalist Anderson Cooper -- broke with many of the city's private schools this fall in going with all-digital instruction until at least mid-year. Now, after weeks of watching students stream in and out of other private school buildings, and the city's public schools resuming in-person learning, some Dalton parents are calling for kids to get off their computers and back in the classroom. "We are, in short, frustrated and confused and better hope to understand the school's thought processes behind the virtual model it has adopted," a group of about a dozen parents describing themselves as physicians wrote in a letter to the head of school last week, a copy of which was seen by Bloomberg. "Please tell us what are the criteria for re-opening fully in person. Covid-19 is not going away and waiting for that to happen is misguided." Many schools around the country have been reluctant to return to in-person education over concerns about teachers and students getting sick. Still, remote education also poses risks of children falling behind, both academically and socially. And writing big tuition checks for what is essentially home instruction only adds to parents' frustration -- as well as their determination. A petition signed by more than 70 lower-school parents asking for the return of on-campus classes also began circulating over the weekend. "Zoom-school is not Dalton," they wrote. In both cases, the fact that other private schools are open for classroom learning -- either full-time or on a hybrid model -- is a sore point. "From our understanding, several of our peer schools are not just surviving but thriving," the physician letter states. "Our children are sad, confused and isolated, questioning why everyone around them gets to go to school when they do not," the lower-school parents wrote in their petition. Jim Best, the head of school, told the physicians he wants to work with them on a reopening plan for Dalton's 1,300 students and 250 teachers, according to one of the parents, who asked not to be identified. "We welcome and appreciate the perspective of these parents, as well as every parent and member of our community," a spokesperson for the Upper East Side school said Monday in a statement. Spence, an all-girls K-12 school also on the Upper East Side, last week reversed its all-remote learning policy following complaints from parents. On Wednesday, Head of School Bodie Brizendine wrote to parents that in-person instruction would resume on Oct. 14 for the lower school, and Oct. 26 for the middle and upper schools on a hybrid schedule. Spence plans to outfit its "lovely, but small" classrooms with new furniture and technology to accommodate social distancing, Brizendine said in the letter, a copy of which was obtained by Bloomberg. A spokesperson for Spence didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. Efforts to resume in-school learning may be too late as colder weather arrives. On Sunday, New York reported its sixth-consecutive day of 1,000 infections or more and Mayor Bill de Blasio said he'd close schools in Brooklyn and Queens neighborhoods where the virus is surging for two weeks starting Wednesday. Governor Andrew Cuomo on Monday moved the closings up by one day. Horace Mann, a private school in the Bronx that opened in person in early September, had its first employee test positive for Covid over the weekend, Head of School Thomas Kelly said in an email. School will be closed Monday and reopen Tuesday, with one student and two other teachers in quarantine. The employee caught the virus at a family event off campus, Kelly said in an email. After the Thanksgiving recess, the school plans on moving to remote learning through the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, Kelly said. Syria speaks out on the recent clashes between Armenia and Azerbaijan, coronavirus cases on the rise across Syria and Iran calls on US to withdraw. Catch up on everything that happened over the weekend. 1. Syria has expressed its regret over the clashes between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and called on the two neighboring countries to put an end to the current escalation and find a peaceful settlement, SANA reported. The Syrian Arab Republic deeply regrets the clashes between Armenia and Azerbaijan that resulted in victims on both sides and offers condolences to the families of the victims and wishes for a speedy recovery for the wounded, an official source at Foreign and Expatriates Ministry said in a statement Saturday. Syria called on the two neighboring countries to put an end to the current escalation and find a solution to their dispute by peaceful means. 2. The Health Ministry announced on Saturday that 40 new coronavirus cases were registered in Syria and that 13 infections have recovered, while one has passed away. In a statement to SANA, the ministry indicated that the number of coronavirus infections in the country has reached 4,329, of which 1,143 have recovered while 204 have passed away. 3. North Press reported that the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria announced 80 new coronavirus infections and one death in its areas on Saturday. The number of infections has risen to 1,791, of which 68 died and 476 recovered. 4. The Iranian Foreign Ministers Senior Assistant in Special Political Affairs, Ali Asghar Khaji, issued a statement that demanded the US leave Syrian territory. The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reported this week that Khaji condemned the illegal US presence and control of Syrias oil fields. Khaji stressed the need for Washington to withdraw from Syrian territory. This article was 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. JACKSON, MI A former teacher at a Catholic school in Jackson has been arraigned on multiple charges of sexual assault against minors. Joseph Comperchio, 67, is charged with six felony counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct in two different cases in Jackson County District Court. Former Jackson Catholic school teacher arrested for sexual assault of minors He was not granted bond during his arraignment before Jackson County Magistrate Frederick Bishop on Oct. 2, records show. He was arrested Sept. 14 in Fort Myers, Florida. Two people were reportedly abused by Comperchio, who taught drama and music at St. John Catholic School between 1974 and 1977, a news release from the Michigan Attorneys General Office said. Comperchio is scheduled for a probable cause conference at 1 p.m., Oct. 9, before Judge Joseph Filip. Second-degree criminal sexual conduct carries a maximum of 15 years in prison for each charge. Read more from MLive: North Mechanic Street closed in downtown Jackson for bridge construction A puppy with a cleft lip needed a home. She found one with a Jackson toddler with a cleft lip, too. 1 union, 2 factories, 54 employees on strike in Jackson area Another $25K raised for new downtown Jackson YMCA Virtual SIM cards pose a new headache for security agencies fighting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir as their use in the valley has seen an increase among terror groups to connect with their handlers in Pakistan, officials said here. The penetration of this new technology was found in 2019 when a request was sent to the United States to seek details from a service provider of "virtual SIMs" used by suicide bomber of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group involved in the Pulwama attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead. However, a detailed investigation done by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other security agencies indicated that over 40 virtual SIM cards were used in the Pulwama attack alone, and there are probably more of them floating in the cyberspace of the valley, the officials said. It is a fairly new modus operandi wherein terrorists across the border are using "virtual SIM" cards, generated by a service provider from a foreign country. In this technology, the computer generates a telephone number and the user downloads an application of the service provider on their smartphone. The number is linked to social networking sites like WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram or Twitter. The verification code for activating the service is generated by these networking sites and received on the smartphone. The officials said the numbers used were pre-fixed with a country code or Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number (MSISDN) number. They said that, besides telecom companies in the US, Canada, the UK, Israel, numbers of Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island being controlled by the US, are doing the rounds in the market. Every mobile phone instrument is sent for a detailed forensic analysis to have a thorough check to look for any telltale signs of use of virtual SIM cards, the officials said. Technology has its pros and cons, and while fighting terrorism, the security agencies have to not only keep up the pace but also move a step ahead of those planning to misuse it, says an official. The risk of forging identities during purchase of virtual SIM cards also runs high. During investigation of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, it was found that an amount of USD 229 was wired to Callphonex, via Western Union Money Transfer receipt number 8364307716-0, for activating the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) used during the strikes. The money was received from 'Madina Trading' located in Brescia in Italy and sender was claimed to be Javed Iqbal, a resident of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). However, after Italian police arrested two Pakistani nationals in 2009, it was alleged that the firm had made nearly 300 transfers in the name of Iqbal, who probably had never set his foot in Italy. The Italian police, while concluding the probe, had said the Brescia-based company made several transfers using the identity of innocent, unsuspecting persons, whose identity cards or passports might have been stolen. This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Topics The on Monday successfully tested a system of supersonic missile-assisted release of lightweight anti-submarine torpedo called SMART from the Wheeler island in Odisha, said the In a statement, the ministry said SMART is for anti-submarine warfare operations "far beyond the torpedo range". "Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) has been successfully flight tested today Oct 5, 2020 at 1145 hrs from Wheeler Island off the coast of Odisha," the ministry noted. The test was conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). All the mission objectives, including missile flight upto the range and altitude, separation of the nose cone, release of torpedo and deployment of velocity reduction mechanism (VRM) were met perfectly during the test, it mentioned. "The tracking stations (Radars, Electro Optical Systems) along the coast and the telemetry stations, including down range ships monitored all the events," it stated. This launch and demonstration of SMART is significant in establishing anti-submarine warfare capabilities, it said. SMART is a missile assisted release of a lightweight anti-submarine torpedo system, it stated. "The @DRDO_India has successfully flight tested the Supersonic Missile assisted release of Torpedo, SMART. This will be a major technology breakthrough for stand-off capability in anti-submarine warfare," said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Twitter. "I congratulate and other stakeholders for this significant achievement," he stated. (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.) TIRANA, Albania - Albanias parliament on Monday approved electoral law changes designed to prevent vote manipulation, which is a key condition for the country to start negotiations to join the European Union. Lawmakers present in the 140-seat house voted 97-15 in favour of the amendments and five abstained. They also selected new officials at the countrys top electoral commission. Changes include a 1% threshold for political parties to enter parliament. The new electoral code will apply from next years scheduled April 25 parliamentary election. Post-communist Albanias elections have always been contested and marred by irregularities, including alleged vote-buying and manipulation of ballot counts. The electoral reform followed recommendations from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, which has monitored the countrys elections. Albanias parliament is now dominated by the left-wing Socialist Party. The main centre-right opposition, which boycotted parliament last year, criticized the new electoral code. Earlier this year, the EU gave the green light for Albania and North Macedonia to start full membership negotiations, but the bloc has yet to set a date for the talks. Both U.S. and EU, which were directly involved in a June 5 political agreement on constitutional amendments related to the electoral code, deplored that the ruling Socialists passed the laws without continuing the consultation with the out-of-parliament opposition. The statement of the EU Delegation to Albania considered the laws unrelated to the implementation of the OSCE/ODIHR recommendations on electoral reform as referred to in the March Council Conclusions. It is regrettable that the majority failed to honour its own stated commitment to seek common ground, a U.S. Embassy statement said, adding that as a NATO member, aspirant to the EU and OSCEs Chairman-in-Office, Albanias leaders (need) to hold themselves to a higher standard and to ensure the freedom and fairness of the upcoming elections. - The already dire situation in Zimbabwe appears to be escalating dramatically - The ruling ZANU PF party is now seeking to outlaw any 'prominent criticism of the government' - This change to the neighbouring country's law is embodied in the Patriot Act Trending topics on the go: How we write news at YEN.com.gh Sources within the ZANU PF party has confirmed that Zimbabwe is seeking to make any 'prominent criticism of the government' illegal. This law will be introduced through the Patriot Act, a sign that the worst is yet to come in the embattled nation. The nation is facing severe economic and financial issues with the government, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has harshly dealt with any criticism. Reports of journalists being kidnapped and assaulted for raising their concerns have been abundant. The Zimbabwean government is considering a law banning any criticism of the state. Image: Flickr/ Rwandan Government Source: UGC This new law will see Zimbabwean citizens facing criminal charges if they engage with foreign governments without the government's permission. Any conduct deemed to be undermining the country will also be totally forbidden with Zimbabwe's justice, legal and parliamentary affairs secretary Virginia Mabhiza commenting that it is in the country's best interests: Conduct such as private correspondence with foreign governments or any officer or agent thereof will be prohibited, including false statements influencing foreign governments, or any other such conduct aimed at undermining the country, The South African reports that the detention of political prisoners recently sparked an international outcry and prompted the ANC to send a delegation to Harare. Earlier, it was reported that the delegation itself had viewed the mission to reach out successful but noted with concern that the government seemed to reject any mention of the immense difficulties in the country. The ANC delegation itself had sparked outrage when it emerged that top members of the ruling party had made use of a South African National Defence Force jet to travel to the country. In response to the incident, the SANDF had denied any wrong-doing, pointing out that the Defence Minister had travelled with the delegation to Zimbabwe. This incident had seen the ANC accused of abusing its power with the Democratic Alliance demanding a probe into the matter with the lodging of a complaint at the office of the Public Protector. The ANC later acknowledged that it had made a mistake and committed to covering the costs of the journey out of its own pocket. This failed to impress the DA, who was adamant this concession was an admission of guilt. Enjoy reading our stories? Download YEN's news app on Google Play now and stay up-to-date with major Ghana news! Ghanaian multi-instrumentalist Dela Jackson has charged the youth in Africa to wake up | #Yencomgh Share your stories and news by getting interactive on our Facebook page! Source: YEN.com.gh This summer, Brittney Woodrum climbed all 58 of Colorado's 14,000-foot peaks, an experience that left her feeling "a lot of astonishment, joy, and lots and lots of gratitude." Woodrum, 27, is a graduate student at the University of Denver, studying humanitarian assistance. The Kentucky native loves the outdoors and being of service to others, and in July launched a fundraising effort called the Fourteeners Project. Her goal was to raise $1,400 for each trek up one of Colorado's fourteeners, with the money going to ShelterBox, an international relief charity. With a large ShelterBox aid container strapped to her back, Woodrum climbed her first summit on July 10 and made it to the final peak, Crestone Needle in the Sangre de Cristo Range, on Sept. 26. Over the summer, she saw meteor showers and skies tinted orange due to wildfires, which was "almost surreal," Woodrum told The Aspen Times. During tough hikes, she learned it was "more of a mental than a physical game," and it was "just about embracing the trudge." By the time her adventure was over, Woodrum had raised about $85,000 for ShelterBox, and she is already planning on doing something similar next summer. More stories from theweek.com 4 plausible election scenarios after Trump's coronavirus diagnosis The pandemic wake-up call America needs Trump is sick. So is the GOP. This article is part of the On Tech newsletter. You can sign up here to receive it weekdays. A woman died from treatment delays after a hospital in Germany hit by a cyberattack was forced to turn away emergency patients. Hackers released private information, including Social Security numbers, from a Las Vegas school district. A coronavirus vaccine trial was bogged down in recent weeks when researchers were locked out of their data. This is a small sample of the toll from ransomware attacks, in which hackers break into computer networks and freeze the digital information until the targeted organization or city pays for its release. Victims have two bad choices: Give in to extortion and hope the criminals didnt do too much damage, or refuse and risk the hackers releasing or deleting essential information. It might also cost more than the ransom to rebuild computer systems. I spoke to Charles Carmakal, an executive with the cybersecurity response company FireEye Mandiant, about the root causes and fixes for ransomware attacks. What are the root causes of ransomware? According to Carmakal, criminal organizations that typically stole bank account or credit card information found a quicker payday from extorting organizations by locking up their essential data. When victims paid, it encouraged the criminals. By Express News Service SpiceJet will launch non-stop flights connecting Delhi and Mumbai with Londons Heathrow airport starting December 4, 2020, the airline said on Monday. With this, Spicejet has become India's first low-cost airline to operate flights to the UK. These flights will operate under the air bubble agreement with the UK. The airline will operate thrice-a-week to London including twice from Delhi and once-a-week from Mumbai. SpiceJet will use an Airbus A330-900 Neo aircraft for these flights. The 371-seater twin-aisle A330 has a configuration of 353 economy and 18 business class seats. Ajay Singh, Chairman & Managing Director, SpiceJet said, This is a huge milestone for us and I am proud of the fact that SpiceJet will be the first Indian low-cost airline to operate non-stop long-haul flights to the UK. London is one of the busiest long-haul destinations from India and our convenient flight timings should suit the convenience of our passengers perfectly. He added, While the last few months has been the worst-ever period for the global aviation industry battling the Covid pandemic, I am proud of the determination and resolve shown by Team SpiceJet." ALSO READ | Global air passenger traffic to dip by 66 per cent this year: Airlines' body Designated as an Indian scheduled carrier to operate to the United Kingdom and the United States of America, SpiceJet had initially secured slots at the London Heathrow Airport from September 1 to October 23, 2020. Heathrow Airport had later extended the slots allotted to SpiceJet for the entire winter schedule. The airline is offering all-inclusive introductory return promotional fare starting at INR 53,555/- on both Delhi-London-Delhi and Mumbai-London-Mumbai routes. The equivalent return fare in Pound Sterling is GBP 565. The one-way starting fare will be INR 25,555/- (GBP 270) on DelhiLondon and Mumbai-London routes and INR 29,555/- (GBP 312) on London-Delhi and London-Mumbai routes. The A330-900 Neo can easily fly non-stop from India to major destinations across the world like New York, San Francisco, Toronto, Paris, London, Tokyo, Sydney, Melbourne, Johannesburg, Sao Paulo amongst others. SpiceJet will connect Delhi with London twice-a-week and Mumbai with London once-a-week. From Delhi, the SpiceJet flight will depart at 1 pm (Local Time) on every Friday and Sunday and reach London at 5.30 pm (Local Time) on the same day. From Mumbai, the flight will depart every Monday at 12.45 pm (Local Time) and will arrive in London at 5.30 pm (Local Time) on the same day. Flights from London to Delhi will depart every Monday and Friday at 7.30 pm (Local Time) and arrive in Delhi at 7.55 am (Local Time) the next day. Flights from London to Mumbai will depart on every Sunday at 7.30 pm (Local Time) and arrive in Mumbai at 8.45 am (Local Time) the following day. Muslim professor killed fellow academic in city of Peshawar, Pakistan on Monday Professor Khattak, who belongs to the Ahmadi faith, was shot driving to college Shooting happened day after they had a heated discussion over religious matter A Pakistani Muslim professor shot and killed another professor from the Ahmadi minority in the northwestern city of Peshawar, Pakistan on Monday. Police said the shooting happened a day after the two allegedly had a heated discussion over a religious matter. ADVERTISEMENT The attacker, identified as Professor Farooq Maad, and another gunman opened fire on the car of Professor Naeem Khattak as he was driving to his college, according to police official Siraj Ahmad. A Muslim professor shot and killed a fellow professor from the minority Ahmadi faith in the northwestern city of Peshawar, Pakistan (pictured) on Monday - the day after the two had a verbal brawl over religious issues Professor Khattak belonged to the minority Ahmadi faith, which was established in the Indian subcontinent in the 19th century by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, whose followers believe was a prophet. Police said Khattak was killed by a fellow professor and another man a day after they had a verbal brawl over religious issues. The victim and the attacker worked at different colleges. Saleem Uddin, a spokesman for Pakistan's Ahmadi community, said Khattak had completed his doctorate in Zoology and was facing problems because of his faith. In a statement, he said Khattak had received threats and he demanded protection for people belonging to their community. 'The government has failed in providing protection to Ahmadis,' he said. Without directly naming the military, he urged state institutions to ensure the protection of Ahmadis. Click here to resize this module Pakistan's Parliament declared Ahmadis non-Muslims in 1974, and they have repeatedly been targeted by Islamic extremists. Pictured: Khyber Gate, a monument west of Peshawar Pakistan's Parliament declared Ahmadis non-Muslims in 1974, and they have repeatedly been targeted by Islamic extremists, drawing condemnation from domestic and international human right groups. Homes and places of worship of Ahmadis have been attacked by Sunni militants who consider them heretics. Peshawar is the provincial capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province bordering Afghanistan and it has a strong presence of majority Sunni Muslims and extremists. ADVERTISEMENT Attacks on the country's minorities, including Christians and Hindus, have increased since 2018, when the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan came into power, although Khan has repeatedly promised to safeguard their basic rights. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-06 00:53:31|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- The top UN envoy for Haiti warned on Monday that acute political polarization and weak state institutions will continue to catalyze violence in Haiti. "Haiti is once again struggling to avert the precipice of instability. Apprehension about the future has been increasingly palpable," Helen La Lime, the UN secretary-general's special representative for Haiti, told the Security Council in a briefing. In the past months, unrest -- sometimes in the form of violent protests -- has become increasingly prevalent, and perceptions of insecurity have grown ever more acute. Gangs continue to challenge the authority of the state, especially in the more populous neighborhoods of Port-au-Prince, and a fringe group of disaffected police officers has, along with its followers, brought disorder to the capital on several occasions, she said. The continued lack of trust between political forces is impeding all but the slightest progress on priorities that had previously garnered a wide consensus across the political spectrum, such as the necessity to undertake constitutional reform to better reflect current Haitian realities and address key shortcomings of the 1987 Constitution before holding new elections, she said. As the country prepares to enter a new electoral cycle, it is paramount that key aspects of the electoral process, such as the electoral framework and calendar, be addressed in order to reduce the risk of contested elections and further violence, she said. It is the ability of Haiti's political and economic classes to compromise and resolve their differences without resorting to violence, as well as the capacity of the country's fledgling institutions to take the necessary steps that will determine whether free, fair and inclusive elections will be held in a conducive climate, whether attempts to restart the economy and put the country back on a positive development trajectory will succeed, and whether the perennial issue of impunity will finally be addressed, she said. Enditem Mass rallies undesirable but so is stringent ban Concern over mass rallies during the long weekend of the Chuseok holiday, especially on National Foundation Day Saturday, was largely quashed as the authorities worked hard to prevent another major outbreak of the coronavirus. Fearful that a large number of new COVID-19 infections could occur if mass rallies were held by conservative civic groups, the police set up 90 traffic checkpoints to control cars heading downtown. They even conducted random questioning of passersby. It's extraordinary times under the pandemic, in particular in the wake of the Aug. 15 National Liberation Day rally at which more than 600 participants were infected with the coronavirus. Yet, the traffic checkpoints and police questioning have eerie evocations of the authoritarian days of Korean politics in the past. The fact that the court turned down more than 100 conservative groups' applications for mass gatherings while allowing only nine cars to engage in "drive-thru" rallies may be comforting from the perspective of combating COVID-19. However, to line up some 300 buses tightly from headlight to taillight along the main thoroughfare of Sejong-daero cannot help but beg the question of whether the authorities took extreme measures. For several hours Saturday, subway trains skipped stations near Gwanghwamun Square to prevent a crowd from forming. These so-called "bus walls" appeared in previous administrations, but have never been quite free from controversy about their relevance. As we fight this unprecedented pandemic, civic cooperation is vital. Health officials have warned that they will be on the watch for where infection clusters will emerge in the next week or so, after many people traveled around the country during the Chuseok holiday. Experts have already warned that people may face the double risk of the flu and the coronavirus. However, there should be respect for civic freedom, and restrictions on peoples' right to gather and protest should be kept to a minimum. Regrettably, the ruling and opposition parties are sharply divided along party lines over the strict ban on rallies. This division should not be a trigger for civic groups to come out in full force to rally on the upcoming Hangeul Day on Friday. The Seoul city government's ban on protests involving 10 people or more still stands through Oct. 11. Several civic groups are warning that they will gather in downtown Seoul, Friday. But in-person rallies are not the only option to demonstrate their "civic voices" nor are police bus walls and checkpoints the answer. Indore: The Rashtriya Kisan Mazdoor Mahasangh (RKMM) on Monday joined the chorus demanding scrapping of three contentious farm laws passed by the Central government. RKMM president Shiv Kumar Sharma told reporters here in Madhya Pradesh that the laws are death warrants" for farmers as they would benefit only corporates and big traders. These laws should have a provision that if any trader purchases agriculture produce from farmers below the MSP (Minimum Support Price) then the difference between the MSP and the actual rate should be paid by that trader as a fine.Additionally, license of such trader should be cancelled," said Sharma alias Kakkaji. The RKMM has launched a campaign to make farmers and labourers aware about the ill-effects" of the farm laws. Meanwhile, Sharma denied that the campaign would benefit opposition Congress in the upcoming bypolls to Assembly seats. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor SHENZHEN, China, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Nam Tai Property Inc. ("Nam Tai" or the "Company") (NYSE Symbol: NTP) today announced that it has completed a private placement of its common shares (a "private investment in public equity," or "PIPE") with investors Kaisa Group Holdings Ltd. ("Kaisa") and a large-scale integrated financial group based in Hong Kong. Nam Tai will receive gross proceeds of approximately $170 million, which it expects to use to pay down debt that is at risk for cancellation or early repayment demands and increase its financial flexibility. Recently, Nam Tai's lending banks have notified Nam Tai that substantial uncertainties may be cast upon the Company's operations and management control in light of recent actions taken by IsZo Capital Management LP ("IsZo"). In fact, it is difficult for small real estate companies such as Nam Tai to obtain bank financing in China. If Nam Tai's Board of Directors were to lose its relationship with Kaisa, which would be the case if IsZo's majority slate of nominees were elected to the Board, the Company would run the risk of loans being canceled, consequently leading to significant liquidity issues with its operating and construction works. Furthermore, the requisition notice and further actions related to a potential change in control pursued by IsZo could trigger an early repayment of outstanding loans demanded by the banks under relevant loan covenants. "After thoughtful deliberation by the Board working with management and the Board's external financial advisor, we are pleased to announce this investment by two strategic, well capitalized and long-term shareholders who recognize the value creation potential of Nam Tai," said Dr. Lai Ling Tam, Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors. "As we navigate the current economic environment, the proceeds from this transaction will significantly enhance our financial flexibility and mitigate meaningful risks to our financial stability." Dr. Tam added, "Over the past several quarters, the Board and management team have made significant strides on our strategy to build Nam Tai into a leading operator of industrial ecosystems in China. IsZo's campaign has disrupted our progress, and its statements against the Company and meeting requisition have triggered this significant new risk to our financial stability. Once the Company resolves its on-going matters with IsZo, it anticipates utilizing a portion of the proceeds from this transaction to advance its property development strategy, including the expansion of its portfolio of assets and strategic development opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and deliver value to all shareholders." Kaisa is a large, diversified investment group in China that is listed on the main board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (the "HKEX") with a market cap exceeding $3.1 billion and a long track record of success. Kaisa has competitive advantages in real estate development and urban renewal, among others. In the field of urban renewal, Kaisa is constantly regarded as one of the national leaders, with 167 urban renewal projects as of June 30, 2020 covering a site area of nearly 42 million square meters, the majority of which are in Guangzhou and Shenzhen. Notably, Kaisa is one of the top developers in Shenzhen, the key market for Nam Tai, and in 2019, contracted sales attributable to Kaisa reached approximately $12.9 billion. As large and long-term oriented shareholders, Kaisa's and the other investor's interests are aligned with all Nam Tai shareholders. As part of the private placement, Kaisa and the other investor received 16,051,219 and 2,603,366 of Nam Tai common shares, respectively, for $9.15 per share. Houlihan Lokey served as financial advisor, and Latham & Watkins LLP and Walkers served as legal advisors to the Company. Forward-looking Statement and Factors that Could Cause our Share Price to Decline Certain statements included in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "might", "can", "could", "will", "would", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "intend", "plan", "seek", or "timetable". These forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, may include projections of our future financial performance based on our growth strategies and anticipated trends in our business and the industry in which we operate. These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations about future events. There are several factors, many beyond our control, which could cause results to differ materially from our expectation. These risk factors are described in our Annual Report on Form 20-F and in our Current Reports filed on Form 6-K from time to time and are incorporated herein by reference. Any of these factors could, by itself, or together with one or more other factors, adversely affect our business, results of operations or financial condition. There may also be other factors currently unknown to us, or have not been described by us, that could cause our results to differ from our expectations. Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements. You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. These forward-looking statements apply only as of the date of this announcement; as such, they should not be unduly relied upon as circumstances change. Except as required by law, we are not obligated, and we undertake no obligation, to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that might reflect events or circumstance occurring after the date of this press release or those that might reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. ABOUT NAM TAI PROPERTY INC. We are a real estate developer and operator, mainly conducting business in Mainland China. Our main land resources are located in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area ("Greater Bay Area") and Wuxi, China, of which the three plots in Shenzhen will be developed into Nam Tai Inno Park, Nam Tai Technology Center and Nam Tai Inno Valley. We plan to build these technology parks into landmark parks in the region and provide high-quality industrial offices, industrial service spaces and supporting dormitories to the tenants. Based on the experience of developing and operating technology parks and an industrial relationship network accumulated over the past 40 years, we have also exported the operation model of technology parks to other industrial properties. Through an asset-light model, we have leased industrial properties for repositioning and business invitation. We will also expand the commercial and residential property business in China as an auxiliary development strategy of the Company. As the growth prospects of China maintain, we shall seize development opportunities in the Greater Bay Area and other first- and second-tier cities in China, and continue to strengthen and expand the business of industrial real estate, and commercial and residential properties. Nam Tai Property Inc. is a corporation registered in the British Virgin Islands and listed on the New York Stock Exchange (Symbol: "NTP"). Please refer to our corporate website (www.namtai.com) or the SEC website (www.sec.gov) for our press releases and financial statements. SOURCE Nam Tai Property Inc. Related Links http://www.namtai.com Scottish growers have been reminded not to miss out on capital funding for flotation tyres that promote better soil. The Sustainable Agriculture Capital Grant Scheme provides grant funding for farmers to help them reduce the impact of farm machinery on soil. The Scottish government scheme closes for applications on Sunday 11 October. One of the largest threats to soil structure is the compaction by farm machinery, according to Zach Reilly of SAC Consulting, part of Scotlands Rural College (SRUC). However, he said the correct tyres can reduce pressure by up to 40%: Compaction is inevitable with heavy machinery and the number of passes needed in agriculture, but one way that the soil structure can be protected is through the use of flexion tyres. "The carcase of these tyres flex, creating a larger contact area for the machinery with the soil, reducing ground pressure." Very High Flexion tyres, or VF tyres, can reduce ground pressure by up to 40% compared to standard tyres, Mr Reilly added. The government has recognised the environmental value of good, working soil to the future of agriculture and several types of tyres are available as retro-fit options under the Sustainable Agriculture Capital Grant Scheme. "If you are thinking seriously about looking after your soil, you should be seriously considering applying for funding to help fit these specialist tyres. James Hopkinson at Cloud Farming has been exploring the most effective methods of soil regeneration both independently and as part of the Soil Regenerative Agriculture Group, a discussion forum with five progressive farmers in the East of Scotland. He has been using VF tyres for a number of years: When sowing a field, up to 85% of the field will be driven on depending on implement width and tyre size," he said. "When you consider the whole crop production cycle, from primary cultivation to spraying to harvest many parts of the field can be driven on several times. "Using flexible tyres alongside our reduced tillage regime has improved water and root movement within the soil and the pore space is much better within the soil profile. Alongside the benefits observed at Cloud Farming, improved soil structure can also have an environmental benefit. Soil microbes can cause nitrous oxide emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, when they are exposed to anaerobic environments. Mr Reilly said the process of denitrification was a complex one with several stages: "When soil microbes respire without oxygen several gases can be emitted, and soil compaction can cause this. "Soils with a high water filled pore space can emit N2, which is not harmful, however soils with between 40% to 100% water filled pore space can emit N20, a greenhouse gas with a global warming potential approximately 300 times that of carbon dioxide. The Sustainable Agriculture Capital Grant Scheme is a pilot grant scheme introduced to support farm businesses to meet climate change targets and to promote sustainable farming. Applications close on 11 October. A notification Sunday on the Clarendon Hills website stated that two of three men had been arrested; however, only Mayers had been charged, as of Monday afternoon. There was no information available Monday about whether the third suspect had been apprehended, as the investigation continued. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Elly Burhaini Faizal (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 09:30 475 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c491d1ed 1 Opinion workplace,workplace-safety,mental-health,burnout,#commentary,health,migraine,stress,workers Free The coronavirus pandemic has threatened our physical health and has become one of the possible causes of poor mental health. The pandemic spreads fear and its psychological impacts can lead to serious health problems. Measures to curb the COVID-19 contagion, such as physical distancing, quarantine and selfisolation, as well as stay-at-home orders, have created emotional gaps in families, friends and work colleagues. They can no longer communicate freely and show each other support like before. The restricted freedoms are seen as heavy burdens, which can adversely affect their mental health if they are left uncontrolled. Months of social isolation and grim pictures of the toll of the deadly pandemic have further sparked uncertainty about jobs, finances and the overall future of many. Surveys reveal a rise in anxiety disorders, stress (intense emotions) and depression because of the changing conditions the pandemic has brought. In some cases, they come with certain medical conditions, like migraines. Migraines and other headache disorders, including tension-type headaches and medication-overuse headaches, are major public health concerns because they are leading causes of disability and ill-health, the World Health Organization says in its 2016 headache disorders report. Unfortunately, few healthcare providers manage to diagnose appropriately people with headache disorders. People tend to underestimate headache, leaving it undertreated. It often happens that people with migraine rely more on nonprescription medicines than professional health treatment to relieve their pain. In a recent Asia-wide virtual roundtable titled Reimagining Healthier Workplaces in Asia, leaders in human resources, businesses and the health industry could not agree more on doubling their effort to promoting healthier workplaces and employee behaviors in the region. The Sept. 9 roundtable was held by the Progressive Alliance Toward Healthy Workplaces (PATHw) in support of Migraine Awareness Week. The rise in the prevalence and burden of migraines was highlighted in the event as one of multiple issues that now affect the workplace, while a healthier and more resilient workforce needs to be built because the pandemic has put employment and livelihoods at risk. Studies presented during the roundtable shows the significant impacts of migraine on the Singaporean and Malaysian economy. A study titled Economic Burden of Migraines in Singapore, which was published by Cephalgia Reports in 2020, shows that migraines imposes a substantial economic burden on society in Singapore. A majority of the costs result from missed workdays [absenteeism] and lost work productivity [presenteeism], the study reveals. Meanwhile, a study titled Impact of Migraines on Workplace Productivity and Monetary Loss: A Study of Employees in the Banking Sector in Malaysia by Wong et al. (2020) highlights the unmet needs in migraine management among employees at workplace. Conducted through an internet-based survey among employees of two Malaysian banks between April and July 2019, the study, which was published in The Journal of Headache and Pain this year, found a high burden of migraines among bank employees who responded to the survey. There was also evidence of a considerable proportion of migraineurs with high disability and headache frequency who were underdiagnosed and hence undertreated. According to the survey, a vast majority of migraine sufferers did not seek medical care for pain relief and only resorted to over-the-counter pain medicines. Furthermore, nearly two-thirds of migraine sufferers with low disability did not obtain medical care. Given the devastating impacts of untreated migraines, the study recommends that patients be made more aware of the importance of treatment-seeking behavior during the mild migraine phase. Patients should also be more informed about the importance of correct diagnosis and treatment, as well as the potential harmful consequences of inappropriate use of over-the-counter medications. The Malaysian study further calls for the elimination of the negative perception of migrainerelated absences and the creation of a work culture that encourages taking medical leave for migraines or time off for migrainerelated medical appointments. Participants of the roundtable also responded to the challenges imposed by pandemic lockdowns on access to care of patients who need neurological care. The major difficulty faced by migraine patients in developing countries is the lack of an existing structure for telemedicine and even electronic prescriptions, said Philippine Neurological Association president Rosalina Picar. Access to neurological care relied heavily on the creative responsiveness of professional societies, with the support of the private sector and acquiescence of government. The pandemic has forced us to think out-of-the-box to provide quick but safe solutions to ensure continuous access to proper neurologic care, Picar said. During the roundtable, health professionals called on employers to be more sensitive about the burden of pain and disability in employees. Employers should be able to identify the triggering factors of pain and disability so they can help employees manage their impacts and start building healthier workplaces. The pandemic has accelerated action by employers to kick start or strengthen their well-being programs, both to care for their employees and also to control health spend with a focus on preventive health, said Marla Arnall, senior principal of Asia consulting firm Mercer. Unsurprisingly, one of the biggest shifts in wellness plan design hinges on digital access to care; 43 percent of employers in Asia have already looked or are looking to expand their digital well-being offerings, Arnall said. The roundtable was the first virtual regional event conducted by PATHw. Last year, the pan-Asia coalitions roundtable was held in Makati, the Philippines, on Nov. 22, with a focus on addressing migraines and their impact on productivity and the economy. As the global economy is plunging into the deepest recession since World War II, it is not an exaggeration to say the pandemic should serve as a wake-up call for company owners and business leaders to start understanding the positive impacts of healthy and efficient employees on workplaces. It is time for business entities, including in Indonesia, to initiate more workplace wellness programs to solve any health problems that can lead to productivity loss. With the global economy continuing to deteriorate, employees should now be seen as a companys greatest asset. *** The author is a staff writer at The Jakarta Post PHOENIX The head of an Arizona police department announced that he is stepping down to pursue a different career. Scottsdale Police Chief Alan Rodbell said he would resign on Dec. 1 after being with the department since 2003. He is the departments sixth police chief and has had the second-longest tenure in the offices history. Rodbell said he is leaving the department for a job in the private sector, KTVK-TV reported. It is an opportunity that comes at a time when I feel confident that the Scottsdale community is in great hands, Rodbell said in a statement. I leave feeling good about the City and our Police Department. This opportunity allows me to move away from Law Enforcement and still work and stay busy. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 16:25:00|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close BISHKEK, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Kyrgyzstan reported 207 new COVID-19 cases on Monday, taking the national tally to 47,635, the Republican Headquarters for Combating COVID-19 said. Meanwhile, 103 patients have recovered from the virus in the past 24 hours, bringing the country's total recoveries to 43,521. There are 1,123 COVID-19 patients being treated in hospitals at present, while 1,470 patients are receiving treatment at home. So far, 1,066 people have died from the disease in the country, with no new deaths reported over the last day, the headquarters said. A total of 8,804 laboratory tests were conducted from Sept. 29 to Oct. 5, according to the headquarters. Prime Minister Kubatbek Boronov told reporters on Sunday that the epidemiological situation has really worsened over the past 10 days. "We will try not to introduce quarantine, but if the situation with the COVID-19 begins to deteriorate, then the question of strengthening quarantine standards will arise," he said. Kyrgyzstan recorded its first COVID-19 case on March 18 and the first death from the virus on April 2. Enditem Rafale to S-400 air defence systems all set to add more firepower to Indian Air Force Rafales to lead Vijay formation on Indian Airforce Day India oi-Vicky Nanjappa New Delhi, Oct 05: The newly inducted Rafale jets will be part of the Indian Air Force Day parade on October 8. The Rafale will lead the Vijay formation of the two Jaguars and Mirage 2000 multi role fighter jets. Integration of Rafales brings in a platform which is way ahead and would give us an edge and capability to strike first and deep, IAF chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said. The IAF chief also said that the Indian Air Force is transforming at a rapid pace. The IAF chief also said that the matrix of the threat facing the country is complex. Rafale fighter aircraft to feature in 88th Air Force day parade on October 8 In September five French-made multirole Rafale fighter jets were inducted into the Indian Air Force in a glittering ceremony at the Ambala air force base, in a major boost to India's air power capability at a time the country is engaged in an escalating border dispute with China in eastern Ladakh Using the occasion to send a strong message to China over the border row, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said induction of the jets was crucial considering the atmosphere being created along the frontier and that it is a "big and stern" message to those eyeing India's sovereignty Besides Singh, the nearly two-hour ceremony was attended by French Defence Minister Florence Parly, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria and several top executives of major French defence firms involved in the Rafale deal A traditional 'sarva dharma puja', a ceremonial 'water cannon salute' to the Rafale jets and an aerial drill featuring various breathtaking manoeuvres by the aircraft marked their induction into the IAF's 'Golden Arrows' squadron at the Ambala Air Force station "The induction of Rafale jets is a big and stern message for the entire world, especially to those eyeing our sovereignty. This kind of induction is very important for the kind of atmosphere that has been created on our borders," Singh said "We understand very well that with changing times, we also have to prepare ourselves. I feel proud to say that our national security has been a big priority of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Singh said Speaking on the occasion, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said induction of Rafale jets could not have happened at a more opportune time considering the security scenario In her brief address, Parly said France is fully committed to integrate the Indian defence industry with France's global military supply chain, while calling the induction of the Rafale jets into the IAF a new chapter in bilateral defence ties Ahead of inducting Rafale jets to Indian Air Force, France describes India as strategic partner At the ceremony, a fleet of indigenously-developed combat jets Tejas, and Sarang helicopter aerobatic team too displayed a range of aerial manoeuvres In a tweet, the IAF welcomed the "new bird" into its arsenal The multirole Rafale jets, built by French aerospace major Dassault Aviation, are known for air-superiority and precision strikes The first batch of five Rafale jets arrived in India on July 29, nearly four years after India signed an inter-governmental agreement with France to procure 36 of the aircraft at a cost of Rs 59,000 crore Ten Rafale jets have been delivered to India so far and five of them stayed back in France for imparting training to IAF pilots. The delivery of all 36 aircraft is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2021 A second batch of four to five Rafale jets are likely to arrive in India by November The Rafale jets are India's first major acquisition of fighter planes in 23 year after the Sukhoi jets were imported from Russia The Rafale jets are capable of carrying a range of potent weapons. European missile maker MBDA's Meteor beyond visual range air-to-air missile and Scalp cruise missile will be the mainstay of the weapons package of the Rafale jets {quiz_386} Meteor is a next generation beyond visual range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) designed to revolutionise air-to-air combat. The weapon has been developed by MBDA to combat common threats facing the UK, Germany, Italy, France, Spain and Sweden Out of 36 Rafale jets, 30 will be fighter jets and six will be trainers. The trainer jets will be twin-seater and they will have almost all the features of the fighter jets While the first squadron of the Rafale jets will be stationed at Ambala air base, the second one will be based at the Hasimara base in West Bengal The 17 Squadron of the IAF was resurrected on September 10 last year JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News The squadron was originally raised at Air Force Station, Ambala on Oct 1 1951. The 17 Squadron has many firsts to its credit; in 1955 it was equipped with the first jet fighter, the legendary De Havilland Vampire. One of four young people said to have died in drugs-related deaths in North East England over the weekend was today named as an 18-year-old first-year student. Jeni Larmour, from Newtownhamilton in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, had just begun studying architecture and urban planning at Newcastle University. An 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of supplying a Class B drug and bailed over the death of the teenager, who had only moved to Newcastle in August. Miss Larmour is thought to have taken ketamine. Police investigating the four deaths in the city have now made ten arrests and carried out searches with drugs dogs. Paramedics had rushed to Richardson Road in the city, where the Park View student village halls are located, early on Saturday morning. But Miss Larmour was found unconscious and pronounced dead at the scene, prompting a police investigation. Her mother Sandra wrote online: 'My beautiful princess, my best friend', while a friend said she did not believe she would have taken drugs of her own accord. Officers are now probing the deaths of Miss Larmour, another 18-year-old female student from the same halls at Newcastle, a 21-year-old male student at Northumbria University, and an 18-year-old man, who was not a student, in nearby Washington. Drugs are believed to have played a part in all four deaths. Today, police continued interviewing students in the Pont block and a patrol car was parked outside. Detectives were today carrying out 'consent-based' room searches at student halls with drugs dogs, in collaboration with student wellbeing teams at the university. Students said drugs were readily available through Snapchat and WhatsApp - and there were rumours of a rogue batch of pills being offered around the campus. Jeni Larmour was a former Deputy Head Girl at the Royal School in Armagh, Northern Ireland Jeni Larmour, 18, from Newtownhamilton in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, had just begun studying architecture and urban planning at Newcastle University Newcastle University student Miss Larmour (pictured) is thought to have taken ketamine A police specialist search team arrives at the student accommodation on the Richardson Road area of Newcastle this afternoon after an 18-year-old woman was pronounced dead Miss Larmour's friend Piper Hebditch, 18, a part-time student and football coach from Peterborough, who had known her for two years, was left 'heartbroken'. She said: 'I was shocked and heartbroken, she's so outgoing and I don't believe she willingly would have taken any drugs. How four young people died in 'drugs-related deaths' over the weekend in Newcastle Saturday, 6.05am: Police received reports of an unresponsive woman at an address on Richardson Road in Newcastle. Jeni Larmour, 18, who was a student at Newcastle University, is believed to have taken a quantity of ketamine and was pronounced dead at the scene. An 18-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of supplying a Class B drug and has since been released on police bail. Saturday, 3.50pm: Police are called to a report of a cardiac arrest at a property on Coach Road Estate in Washington, where an 18-year-old had allegedly taken a quantity of MDMA and fallen ill. Officers and emergency services attended but the man, who is not a university student, was pronounced dead a short time after. Seven people were arrested in connection with this incident and have been released under investigation. Sunday, 8.13am: Police were alerted to a report that a 21-year-old student from Northumbria University had taken ill at an address on Melbourne Street, Newcastle. It is suspected he had taken a quantity of MDMA. He was transported to hospital, but died a short time later. A 20-year-old male arrested on suspicion of supplying Class A drugs has since been released on police bail. Sunday, 1.10pm: Police received a further call to the same building on Richardson Road, where the first woman was found. Another 18-year-old student had died, and it is believed ketamine had been present at the address. An 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of supplying a controlled drug and has been bailed. Advertisement 'It shocked me that people are putting these dangerous things into circulation it's horrible. I honestly have no clue (what happened). It was a start of a new chapter for her so I guess we won't know unless someone knows something. 'I knew she partied a lot but never heard of her and drugs.' Miss Hebditch and Miss Larmour met on an Army Cadets Round Britain sailing challenge in August 2018 and became friends straight away. Miss Hebditch said: 'When we first arrived it was a bit awkward with the others getting to know each other, but Jeni was super bubbly and amazing she instantly came an said hi and got to know everyone. 'I loved how open and confident she was, she was such an inspiration to a lot of us but to me especially. She was so enthusiastic even when we were up at 4am in 2C weather in the middle of the Irish Sea. The look of amazement on her face when we saw the seals of dolphins could warm even the coldest of hearts. 'She was utterly amazing and will by truly missed by us all. I've spoken to her mum, they are heartbroken but are coping, they have so many kind words it helps I'd assume. 'I'm gutted someone could be taken this soon and in such a cruel and unfair manner. Let her fly high with the angels.' Royal Navy veteran, Nick Cohen, 42, also met Miss Larmour on the cadets trip in 2018, and has been shocked after hearing the terrible news. Mr Cohen, a gardener from Suffolk, said: 'I've been made aware that it might have been drug-related and it does surprise me. She just doesn't seem the type. 'Maybe it was her first time and they were strong but I wouldn't want to speculate. Drugs these days are cut with such powerful substances like fentanyl. It's criminal. 'The lockdown in the North East was one of the things that crossed my mind. They're stuck in halls of residence, bored out of their mind, potentially struggling with mental health problems, missing family and they're a million miles away from home.' Since the Army Cadets trip in August 2018, Miss Larmour and Mr Cohen had stayed in touch, and he said the teenager had a strong impact on his life. Jeni's mother Sandra wrote online in a Facebook tribute: 'My beautiful princess, my best friend' Sandra described how her daughter had a 'fantastic experience' at university before her tragic death Suspected drug related deaths took place in Newcastle and Tyne and Wear over the weekend He said: 'She was a beautiful girl inside and out. She was lovely - always smiling and could melt any frown and brought the best out in everybody. 'She was hardworking, intelligent and an absolute pleasure to be around and she was very excited about going to uni. 'I've been in touch with her family and obviously they are struggling. They're going down to ID her body today and clear out her room at the university. 'Jeni's brother has been really supportive. He's there with her mum and dad is going over today. What a waste. She had a bright future and she made everyone smile, It's really sad.' Henry Robson, 18, from Alnwick, Northumberland, lives in the next block to where the two student deaths happened. He said: 'It's really sad to start university life this way, for two people to have died. 'When I arrived there were ambulance lined up outside and word got around about what had happened. 'Everyone is having to socialise with people on their floor in the halls and everywhere closes at 10pm. It's a strange start to university life.' Other students say they have heard parties going on in and around the universities - including one on the night where one of the youngsters died. Holly Conlin, 19, who is studying English Literature and Language, said: 'There was a massive party. There must have been about 20 people in the flat, it was horrific. 'The party lasted until around 3.30am in the morning. We were going to call the police. No one is listening to the rules. It's really worrying, it's awful.' Newcastle University midwifery student, Emltem Ozen, 21, added: 'I was shocked when I heard but I just think it's because people are having a lot of house parties because they can't go out. 'It's been really bad with parties in the flats. Maybe if people see it in the news they will start being more sensible. I asked someone to turn the music down the other day and they refused.' Another student, an 18-year-old psychology student from York, believed the local lockdown may have played a part in the tragedy. She said: 'People want the freshers experience but they can't have it because everything is shutting down at 10pm. 'Even the local shop closes at 10pm so you can't get alcohol. I think people might be trying drugs who wouldn't do otherwise because there's nothing to do except go back to your flat at the halls. 'I feel so sorry for these girls and their families, it's an awful thing to have happened.' Other friends have been paying tributes to her on social media, describing her as a 'a beautiful young girl' and 'an angel'. One wrote on Facebook: 'Jeni Larmour, taken too soon with such a bright future ahead. Sending love to all the family.' Police at student accommodation on the Richardson Road area of Newcastle this morning, two days after paramedics rushed to the halls on Saturday morning Another added: 'You'll be missed greatly Jeni Larmour, it was a pleasure to know you.' And one message read: 'Rest in peace gorgeous, taken too soon.' A further friend said: 'Heaven's gained another angel. Sleep tight. Jeni Larmour.' Meanwhile one student said the deaths had been his mother's 'worst fear' as he headed off to Newcastle University last Friday. The 18-year-old man said: 'When the news began reporting the death at the halls my mum was straight on the phone very upset. I didn't know the girl involved but she could only have been here a matter of days, I only arrived on Friday. 'I left with warnings from my mum and dad about this exact situation. This was my mum's worst fear, and there's been a real feeling of shock around the halls ever since, the atmosphere is very subdued.' An 18-year-old female student from a neighbouring block said: 'I've seen a video of the guy being arrested outside Block Three after the girl was found unresponsive in the flat she shared. 'Block Three was immediately locked down by the police and no one was allowed in or out. He was quickly brought out by the police and driven away. Police teams on site in Newcastle this afternoon as detectives investigate the four deaths 'The word around the student village is that a bad batch of pills has been offered around and some people have got hold of them. Lockdown hasn't helped the situation. 'The pubs close at 10pm and people have been going back to their flat in halls to continue the party, which is what I heard happened here. 'At least one of the others who died are also students. We're not having what would be a normal freshers' experience and some people are compensating for that. 'It's so sad and I feel really bad for her parents. I haven't sought out or been offered drugs but I know they'd be easy to come by, I've heard people are buying them through Snapchat and WhatsApp. 'This is everything you are warned about, you don't know who you're buying from or what you're buying.' Northumbria Police chief Inspector Steve Wykes said: 'This weekend we have seen the tragic loss of four young lives and our thoughts continue to be with the family and friends of those who have sadly died. A sign saying 'KET' at student halls on the Richardson Road area of Newcastle this morning 'Although our investigations are at an early stage and we continue to establish the circumstances around these tragedies, we want to reiterate our warning to people against taking drugs for recreational use. The consequences could cost you your life. 'We will continue to work with both universities and will be increasing our patrols in the areas where these tragedies have occurred.' He added: 'We would urge anyone with any information in relation to these tragedies to come forward even the smallest piece of information could help us. 'If anyone has any information about who has supplied the drugs in question then we would also encourage them to contact us at the earliest opportunity.' A Newcastle University spokesman said: 'We are shocked and saddened to learn of the death of one of our students and our welfare teams are offering support to those affected. 'This is not Covid-related and as this is an active police investigation, we are unable to provide further comment at this time.' Yesterday morning a 21-year-old man was taken ill at an address on Melbourne Street in Newcastle, and later died in hospital. Another sign saying 'SOS' at the student halls in Newcastle is pictured this morning A Northumbria Police spokesman said: 'At 8.13am (yesterday) police were informed by the ambulance service that a man had taken ill at an address in Melbourne Street in Newcastle. 'Emergency services attended but sadly the man aged 21 was later pronounced dead at hospital. Enquiries into the circumstances around his death are ongoing. 'His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers at this time. The investigation is at an early stage but this is not believed to be Covid-19 related death.' Newcastle University vice-chancellor Chris Day issued an email warning to students, saying: 'I know how different the start of this term has been and that it is exciting to be back at university with your friends after the last six months. But your safety is in your hands. 'If you drink, then make sure you do so sensibly and that you look after each other. Remember, it is against the law to take and supply drugs and it is also extremely dangerous. 'Batches of drugs can vary in purity and strength and are potentially lethal, and mixing drugs with alcohol further increases this risk.' Anyone who has information about the drugs should still contact Northumbria Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 Amazon came under fire after they posted a "hugely distasteful" coronavirus Halloween masks from its UK website. According to a police chief, trick-or-treating and bonfire night during Halloween will be cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic. Coronavirus masks The latex masks resemble an illustration of the COVID-19 virus, but with haunting eyes and a mouth of jagged teeth. The masks are being listed on Amazon by a number of sellers based in China and are said to be "suitable for adults and teenagers." The masks are now branded as distasteful by a parenting group, while Amazon has vowed to remove the listings from its UK website. One of the listings is from a Chinese seller in Guangdong, China. It is listed as being made of safe and non-toxic material with a "terrible corona design." Also Read: Best Halloween Movies Perfect for Children The masks were criticized by Rachel Power, Chief Executive of the Patients Association. She told The Sun that the masks show a terrible lapse of judgement by the manufacturers and sellers and she hopes that they will be removed from sale fast. A spokesperson for Amazon told MailOnline that all sellers must follow their selling guidelines and those who do not will be subjected to action, including potential removal of their account. Cancellation of Halloween The sale of masks online came after police urged Halloween trick-or-treaters to skip Halloween this year to avoid the spread of the virus. They also want Bonfire Night celebrations cancelled. Martin Hewitt, the head of the National Police Chief's Council, said that there would be a lot of messaging going out in relation to Halloween. He said that forces are planning operations around normal Halloween weekends in any event because of all the things that are happening. Police forces usually plan operations around Halloween when levels of crimes, such as anti-social behavior, burglaries and muggings, can rise. However, this year, many areas will be in local lockdowns and forces will be seeking to prevent people from mixing with others and risk spreading the virus between households by going out trick-or-treating. Aside from the masks, it was revealed that plague doctors costumes are selling out at fancy dress stores as they are tipped to be one of the most popular Halloween costumes this year due to the pandemic. Medieval plague doctor outfits include long black robes, black top hats, gloves and the beak masks, which are already sold out on some online stores. The outfit was worn by doctors treating patients during the bubonic plague that swept across western Europe. Plague doctors usually wore a head-to-toe leather or wax coat and a beak mask, which were stuffed with herbs, dried flowers or a vinegar sponge to ward off the disease. The costumes were worn by doctors treating patients during the epidemics of bubonic plague that swept across western Europe. Amazon is also selling the medieval plague doctor outfit, complete with mask, black top hat, black hooded cape, black gloves and a cane. There are also versions for children. Many people have taken to Twitter to reveal that they will be wearing the plague doctor costumes for Halloween this year. Related Article: Amazon's Own Products "Explode, Melt and Burst into Flames," Customers Complain @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. With millions around the world stuck at home due to the pandemic, "plane cafes" in Thailand are offering customers the chance to pretend they are in the sky -- and the idea seems to have taken off. Onboard a retired commercial aeroplane in the coastal city of Pattaya, coffee drinkers make themselves comfy on first-class-style seats and pose for photos by the overhead lockers. Boarding passes in hand, some "passengers" even opt for a tour of the cockpit. CORONAVIRUS SPECIAL COVERAGE ONLY ON DH "With this cafe, I can sit in first class and also mess around in the cockpit pretending to be the captain of the plane," 26-year-old Thipsuda Faksaithong told AFP. "It's a lot of fun." Chalisa Chuensranoi, 25, said her visit was as good as any trip she had taken before the pandemic, which shuttered Thailand's borders in March. "Sitting right here in the first-class section... really gives me the feeling of actually being on a plane, cruising through the air," she said. In another cafe at the headquarters of national carrier Thai Airways in Bangkok, hungry diners appear even to have missed plane food as they gobble up spaghetti carbonara and Thai-style beef served on plastic trays by cabin crew. But for Intrawut Simapichet, 38, who came to the cafe with his wife and baby, the experience is about more than a meal. "Normally I'm a person who travels very often, and when we are forced to stay at home... it's kind of depressing," he said as fellow passengers posed with luggage by a fake aeroplane door. "(The cafe) relieves what's missing." Thailand was the first country outside China to detect a coronavirus case, but it has since registered a low toll, with about 3,400 infections and 58 deaths. For latest updates and live news on coronavirus, click here Travel restrictions have nevertheless eviscerated the tourism-reliant economy, while Thais have founded themselves stuck due to quarantine requirements in other countries. The government is currently mulling travel bubbles with select countries that also have low tolls. BRADY ANDERSON, Chariho, Wrestling, Sophomore; Anderson finished first in the 152-pound weight class at the Griswold Midseason Invitational tournament. Anderson went 3-0 in the tournament, pinning all of his opponents in the first period. Anderson is 10-4. LYDIA LASKEY, Stonington, Gymnastics, Senior; Laskey finished first in all four events in meets against NFA and Westerly. Laskey had an all-around score of 33.75 against NFA and 34.60 against Westerly. RILEY PELOQUIN, Westerly, Girls Basketball, Sophomore; Peloquin scored 22 points and had 19 rebounds in two games. Peloquin is averaging 7.6 points and 7.5 rebounds a game for the Bulldogs. DEONDRE BRANSFORD, Wheeler, Boys Basketball, Sophomore; Bransford scored 25 points and had 28 rebounds in a pair of Wheeler victories. Bransford is averaging 10.6 points and 12.1 rebounds per contest for the Lions. Vote View Results A restricted driver who admitted doing almost twice his permitted speed claimed he was in a rush to assist with a cow giving birth A restricted driver who admitted doing almost twice his permitted speed claimed he was in a rush to assist with a cow giving birth. Jay Rowan (18), of Carnlough Road, Broughshane, is restricted to 45mph but was detected in a Seat Leon doing 83mph on the northbound section of the M2 in Co Antrim. He pleaded guilty at Ballymena Magistrates Court to speeding on May 19 this year. A prosecution lawyer said police stopped the defendant and he made no reply after caution. At court, defence barrister Stephen Law said: "He had received a call - he helps out on the family smallholding - and a cow had prematurely started to calve, and had got into difficulties." Mr Law said his client was making his way to the smallholding "to see if he could assist". The lawyer said the defendant accepted he was "going far beyond what he should have been". Mr Law said the defendant works as a driver with an engineering firm and added: "He is needed - his father needs him on the smallholding, but also he needs his licence for his engineering position." Rowan was handed four penalty points and a 200 fine. New Delhi: Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has suspended the licence of budget carrier IndiGos aviation security training facility for alleged lapses in the examination system conducted by it. The orders issued by the apex aviation security agency BCAS last week bar the Gurgaon-based airline from conducting security training programme for its employees any further, sources said. The training academy is run by IndiGos parent company, InterGlobe Aviation. BCAS has suspended the licence of IndiGos aviation security training centre on Friday after several lapses were detected in the examination procedure that it was following. This is a serious issue, the sources said. Following the suspension of licence, IndiGo would have to outsource the training programme, which would result in additional cost for the carrier, they said. When contacted, an IndiGo spokesperson said the airline was in discussions with BCAS to resolve the issue. Any lapse on the security front can have major ramifications for the countrys aviation sector. At sensitive airports like Srinagar, a secondary ladder point check of passengers is carried by airline security staff, sources said. This major responsibility is entrusted on the airline security staff on the premise and assurance that they would execute this duty in a responsible manner, the sources said. If security training is being compromised, it raises serious questions, they added. The move comes at a time when the airline is already facing frequent glitches in its aircraft, resulting in delay in its flights and inconvenience to the passengers. Regulations make it mandatory for all scheduled airlines to impart aviation security training to its security staff, cockpit and cabin crew either through their own BCAS approved facility or any other similar authorised centre. Besides, BCAS also conducts such training programmes for airlines and other stakeholders at all its regional offices. While cockpit and cabin crew are imparted a one week training in various aspects of airline and airport security, for those deployed in other jobs it runs for more than a week. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Students at the University of Missouri-St. Louis touch the Wayne Goode statue on campus to bring them good luck. Campus tradition also calls for fitting the statue with various T-shirts promoting the Tritons. Since its installation in 2006, the smiling statue has become the meeting place at the university that Goode helped create during a long career in public service. The former state legislator and member of the University of Missouri Board of Curators died Saturday of leukemia at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. He was 83. P. Wayne Goode grew up and attended public schools in Normandy. He went on to represent north St. Louis County for 42 years as a Democrat in the Missouri House (1963 to 1984) and Senate (1984 to 2005). Goodes passion for education policy gave him a reputation as the states leading (and perhaps only) expert in the state funding formula for schools, which he helped write. His other legislative priorities included the environment, health care and consumer protections. He sponsored bills that led to the states first hazardous waste disposal law and campaign finance reform, among others. When not serving in Jefferson City, Goode worked for his fathers Be-Mac regional trucking company. He also ran his own Peterbilt truck dealership for nearly 20 years before selling it in 1991. In the 1970s, Goode was a supporter of the small but growing number of women legislators, according to Betty Van Uum, the first woman elected to the St. Louis County Council. To me, Wayne was both a friend and a hero, Van Uum said. Ive known him for virtually all my life and he was a person of great intelligence and integrity. Goode graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1960 and won his first election to state office three years later. One of his first pieces of legislation allowed the University of Missouri to acquire the old Bellerive golf course in Normandy to establish UMSL. After his retirement from the Legislature, Goode served on the University of Missouris Board of Curators from 2009 to 2014. What happens to St. Louis, whether we have an educated workforce and are able to maintain a good quality of life really depends on UMSL as the primary supplier of that workforce, Van Uum said. Wayne never lost sight of that. Goode also served on boards including the Missouri Historical Society, Great Rivers Environmental Law Center, the L-A-D Foundation, Trailnet and the Missouri Foundation for Health. He received the Thomas Jefferson Award from the historical society in 2019. Goode is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jane; two sisters, Linda Wilson of Town and Country and Nora Casey of Chesterfield; a son, Peter W. Goode III of Webster Groves; a daughter, Jennie Goode of Seattle; and two grandchildren. The family suggests donations to the Great Rivers Environmental Law Center and the Missouri Historical Society in lieu of flowers. A private burial service will be held at Bellefontaine Cemetery, at a gravesite Goode chose for its proximity to the explorer William Clark. A public memorial celebration is planned for 2021. Stay up to date on life and culture in St. Louis. Sign up! * I understand and agree that registration on or use of this site constitutes agreement to its user agreement and privacy policy. Even 22 days after the opening ceremony of the intra-Afghan dialogue in Doha, the negotiating teams of the Afghan government and Taliban are yet to begin direct talks to restore peace in the war-torn nation. According to Tolo News, the negotiating teams of both sides of the peace negotiations have held seven contact group meetings, but could not agree on two disputed points. The contact groups have not held any meetings for the last six days. According to the report, the Taliban demand recognition of the US-Taliban agreement as to the mother deal underlying the Afghan peace negotiations and Hanafi jurisprudence as the sole religious legal guidelines for the talks. However, the Afghan government has suggested alternatives to the Talibans demands. The government has proposed that if a religious issue arises it can be solved based on Hanafi jurisprudence by default, however, the Shia Personal Status Law must be respected, and the choice of religious jurisprudence should be given to other minority groups as well. The peace talks between the Afghanistan government and the Taliban began on September 12 in Qatars capital Doha to end decades of war in which tens of thousands have been killed. Amid the delay in the talks, the US and other countries have started diplomatic efforts American special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad was in Doha last week and met with negotiating teams of the two sides. Meanwhile, NATOs Senior Civilian Representative, Stefano Pontecorvo, also held talks with chief negotiator Masoom Stanekzai and discussed the peace process. A desperate search is underway for a Florida mother-of-three who vanished into thin air nearly two weeks ago as police offer a $5,000 reward for any information that helps to locate her. Stephanie Chitwood Hollingsworth, 50, was last seen by family members leaving her home on Monet Avenue, in Belle Isle, at around noon on September 25. The mother then took off in her 2000 silver Chevrolet Tahoe, taking her purse with her but leaving behind her cellphone. A surveillance camera captured her withdrawing $20 from a nearby Bank of America on Hoffner Avenue and Goldenrod Road at 2pm. Hollingsworth has not been heard from or seen since. Investigators say theyre concerned for her well-being as she suffers from unspecified mental health conditions and requires care. Stephanie Chitwood Hollingsworth, 50, was last seen by family members leaving her home on Monet Avenue, in Belle Isle, at around noon on September 25 Her husband Scott Hollingsworth said it was unlike his wife, the mother of his three sons (above), to take off without her phone, a change of clothes, or word of where she was heading. He said shed never abandon her children Police said that their search for Hollingsworth has so-far proved fruitless, with Nothing. No leads at all, in her disappearance, now 10 days on. Whats odd about this case is that theres only been one sighting or one transaction at the Bank of America Friday. Outside of that, weve taken just about every avenue that we can to locate her or the vehicle, said Sergeant Detective Jeremy Millis to Click Orlando. There has been absolutely no sightings of the vehicle since the Bank of America transaction. Belle Isle Chief of Police Laura Houston said her department is not ruling out the fact Hollingsworth couldve simply left on her own volition; but they arent ruling out foul play either. Crimeline is now offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information on Hollingsworths whereabouts. Her husband, Scott Hollingsworth, is also appealing to the public for help. Scott Hollingsworth said it was unlike his wife, the mother of his three sons, to take off without her phone, a change of clothes, or word of where she was heading. He said shed never abandon her children. The fact that she just vanished in thin air just doesnt make sense. We can say with a certain degree of certainty that she is endangered at this point, Scott said. He added the family has to suspect the worst at this stage, but he vowed never to stop looking for Stephanie until the circumstances around her vanishing are made clear. Im asking for everybodys help to do everything they can to find her, said Scott. Understand that this woman... Stephanie, my wife of 25 years is in trouble and we need to get her back to her family, her children. Stephanie... we are looking for you, your family loves you more than ever. We dont know whats going on but were going to find you.... just know that, he continued. She was last seen driving a silver Chevrolet Tahoe with the Florida license plate: Y50XUR (above) Investigators say theyre concerned for her well-being as she suffers from unspecified mental health conditions and requires care On Friday, Scott held a vigil to raise awareness of his wifes disappearance that was attended by dozens in the local community, a testament to how loved his wife was, Scott said. Shes an amazing person, an amazing mother. Shes a beautiful soul and just gave everything she had to everyone in her life, he told the Orlando Sentinel. A lot of people loved her, and anyone could always count on her. The key to the search, Scott said, is finding the SUV Hollingsworth was driving when she went missing. What were asking for is people to check all their immediate surroundings parking lots, apartment complexes, remote areas, Scott Hollingsworth said. Anywhere a truck like that can be parked and unnoticed for a long time. It cant just disappear. Since Thursday, an RV has been parked outside of a Walmart on South Goldenrod Road as a command post where the family have coordinated searches for her. Friends and neighbors of the 50-year-old have also been volunteering to search wherever they can while the Belle Isle Police Department carries out its own investigation. Taped to the sides of the RV are missing person posters bearing Hollingworths face, in addition to printouts of maps of the Orlando area, highlighting landmarks and neighborhoods that have already been searched. Weve had so many people searching all week, Scott told the Sentinel. What this allows us to do is to do it in an organized fashion so we can not backtrack and cover a bigger area. Since Thursday, an RV has been parked outside of a Walmart on South Goldenrod Road as a command post where the family of Stephanie Hollingsworth have coordinated searches for her Taped to the sides of the RV are missing person posters bearing Hollingworths face, in addition to printouts of maps of the Orlando area, highlighting landmarks and neighborhoods that have already been searched He added the family has to suspect the worst at this stage, but he vowed never to stop looking for Stephanie until the circumstances around her vanishing are made clear Her brother, Chad Chitwood, drove up from Boca Raton to help in the emotional search. Shes got three boys. Everyone says what a loving person she is, Chad said. My sisters lived in this community for over 10 years. All her friends are here for her. Volunteer searches continued throughout the area across the weekend from 8am to 8pm but yielded no new discoveries. Right now, its all about finding her, Scott Hollingsworth said. Hollingsworth is described as five-feet, four-inches tall, has brown hair and eyes. She last seen wearing a black shirt and black pants, and driving a silver Chevrolet Tahoe with the Florida license plate: Y50XUR. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to call the Belle Isle Police Department via the Orange County Sheriffs Office Dispatch line at 407-836-4357 or call 911. You can report any tips to Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS anonymously. Any information leading to the whereabouts of Stephanie Hollingsworth can get up to a $5,000 reward. The Belle Isle Police Department has not yet returned a DailyMail.com request for comment. In the upcoming round of privatisation, unviable airports are likely to be clubbed with six main airports and a prospective bidder may be restricted to bid for two airports. Facing criticism that the policy of privatising profit-making airports is saddling the Airports Authority of India (AAI) with economically unviable airports and fostering monopoly in the sector, the Centre is planning to rewrite how airports have been privatised in the country. In the upcoming round of privatisation, unviable airports are likely to be clubbed with six main airports and a prospective bidder may be restricted to bid for two airports. The government is in the final stages of framing rules of privatising airports at Amritsar, Varanasi, Bhubaneswar, Indore, Raipur, and Tiruchirappalli. An Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS), chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, has proposed that six unviable airports in a similar geography are to be sold as a package to the winning bidder. According to the plan, Varanasi will be clubbed with Kushinagar airport, Bhubaneswar will be attached with Jharsuguda, and Indore, Amritsar, and Tiruchirappalli airports will be clubbed with Jabalpur, Barmer, and Salem airports, respectively. The EGoS has directed AAI to analyse the attractiveness and constraints of such a process before finalising the units for sale. It is simultaneously holding feedback discussions with state governments as many of these remote airports are under the ownership of states. There were concerns that if all lucrative airports are given to private players, they may create resource constraints for AAI, which is responsible for developing and operating many unviable airports as part of a public service intent, said a senior government official aware of the development. After the previous round of privatisation under which Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Mangalore, Trivandrum, and Guwahati airports were sold to Adani Enterprises, the Airports Authority Employees Union, an independent union of AAI, had alleged that the current privatisation policy is giving room to the private partner to earn windfall profit at the expense of AAI. The union noted that AAI is given the task of building and managing loss-making smaller and non-metro airports. It was concerned that with the privatisation of profit-making airports, AAI will be saddled with only economically unviable airports. One more reason to club loss-making remote airports is that the Covid-19 pandemic is straining the finances of AAI and may push it into losses in 2020-21 (FY21) - the first time since its formation in 1995. But, despite a fall in revenue, AAI will not reduce its capital expenditure (capex) plan since all public sector enterprises have been asked by the finance ministry to continue with the proposal to revive the economy. AAI has earmarked around Rs 20,000 crore to be spent in the next five years, Rs 5,026 crore of it in FY21 alone. It has spent Rs 4,950 crore in 2019-20 as capex. A private player can develop the remote airport in close proximity to a major airport as the hub of maintenance and repair units or for parking aircraft. "There have been some apprehensions that such a model may drive down value. "A final decision will be taken after considering all aspects, said the official. The government is also planning to restrict the number of airports a private player can bid for. According to the plan, the six airports are to be bid out only two at a time. Once a company wins two airports, it will be restricted to bid in the next round. The review of the rules comes after Adani Enterprises, the company controlled by billionaire Gautam Adani, snapped up all six contracts for upgrading airports in 2019, despite having no experience in running them. This, the government believes, had made it vulnerable to accusations by Opposition parties of favouring a particular company. With the demise of GVK Group, there is only the GMR and Adani Group present in the sector. "We dont want a duopoly to develop. Hence, the plan, said the official. After acquiring 74 per cent stake in Mumbai International Airport, Adani Group now controls seven airports in India. This makes it the biggest private operator in this space in terms of the number of airports. Photograph: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters Half its lifetime ago, in 2013, Victorian Opera was singing the blues. Its production of the modern minimalist masterpiece Nixon in China was about to open and barely half the seats had been sold. This was going to be a financial nightmare. "It was not (an) inexpensive (production), through the international licensing and the amount of people on stage," recalls CEO Elizabeth Hill-Cooper, who at the time had just joined the company as artistic administrator. "We were sitting on a knife-edge going 'oh God'." Barry Ryan as the former US president Richard Nixon in the Victorian Opera production of Nixon in China. Credit:Tim Young "Then 42 per cent of ticket sales went in the 10 days before closing. It shot through the roof." It was hailed by critics The Age called it "nothing short of a triumph" and marked a milestone for the young company, which formed out of the void left after Opera Australia absorbed the state opera company. Artistic director Richard Mills (known internally as Richard the Second, having replaced the much-loved Richard Gill), picks this production as the highlight of the company's life so far for its "overall quality" and spectacle. Hence, Pence will now undertake a round of electioneering under the 'Operation MAGA' initiative launched by Trump's re-election campaign which is a series of in-person and virtual events to be held throughout this month the November 3 election. New York: Although doctors have said that Trump may be discharged from the hospital on Monday, he will not be able to attend campaign rallies in person. He will have "a very full aggressive schedule", Jason Miller, a senior campaign adviser, told NBC News. On Monday, the Vice President will travel to Utah. On Thursday, he will participate in a 'Make America Great Agian' rally in Arizona, a big event for Pence who has addressed only relatively smaller groups in low-key electioneering. While speaking to NBC News, Miller said that Pence will be backed by the Trump family with sons Donald Jr. and Eric, and daughter Ivanka campaigning intensively. Eric Trump had addressed a meeting of Indian supporters of the President in Atlanta last month. The most important challenge for Pence will come on Wednesday when he will face Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden's running mate Kamala Harris in the first Vice Presidential debate, where questions about the Trump administration's responses to the Covid-19 crisis will be highlighted. This debate will be a switch around from the presidential one, where Trump was tough and Biden was mild in comparison. A former prosecutor, Harris is a formidable debater while Pence's softer personality is the opposite of Trump's. If Trump doesn't make it to the next two debates with Biden slated for October 15 and 22, Wednesday's will be the last clash of the two campaigns. The state of Trump's health has raised concerns because according to his doctor Sean Conley, he had two temporary setbacks. The 74-year-old overweight president "experienced two episodes of transient drops in his oxygen saturation" along with high fever in one instance was given oxygen at least once, Conley said. Meanwhile, Trump has been trying to project an upbeat posture. His doctors said that he was walking around in the presidential suite at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre in Washington and attending to businesses. On Sunday evening, he also briefly stepped out to greet his supporters gathered outside the hospital. Before stepping out, he tweeted a video of him standing up and saying: "I learned a lot about Covid-19. I learned it by really going to school. This is the real school. This isn't the 'Let's read the book school', and I get it, and I understand that. And it's a very interesting thing I'm going to be letting you know about it." His supporters and critics will however, have to wait to hear about his lessons as Trump has been criticised for not taking the global pandemic seriously and playing down health precautions. In an attempt to show that he was working, the White House released a picture of a gaunt-looking Trump at a conference table with a phone, saying that he participated in a call with Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley. If Trump is incapacitated, Pence will take over. And if after succeeding Trump should he become too ill to function, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi would be in line to become the Acting President One tweet is worth 1,000 words. Cincinnati Reds right-hander Trevor Bauer dropped a possible hint as to his next MLB home when he tagged the Boston Red Sox in a tweet on Sunday. The 29-year-old Bauer will be a free agent following the World Series, making him one of the best arms on open market. Bauer went 5-4 with a 1.73 ERA in 11 starts this season for the Reds. The Cleveland Indians traded Bauer to the Reds before the non-waiver deadline in 2019. He had been an American League All-Star in 2018 and finished sixth in Cy Young Award voting that season. Introducing Yankees Insider: Get exclusive news, behind-the-scenes observations and the ability to text message directly with beat writers As for the Red Sox, they are coming off a last-place finish in 2020, and have nowhere to go but up next season. If the Red Sox sign Bauer, and thats a big if, it would give Boston a rotation which could potentially match up with the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays. Buy Gerrit Cole Yankees gear: Fanatics.com, MLBShop.com, Lids The Red Sox expect left-handers Chris Sale (Tommy John surgery) and Eduardo Rodriguez (coronavirus-related heart condition) to return in 2021. Plus Boston will bring back 2018 World Series hero Nathan Eovaldi and rookie phenom Tanner Houck, who went 3-0 with a 0.53 ERA in a late-season run with the Red Sox in 2020. Get Yankees text messages: Cut through the clutter of social media and text during games with beat writers and columnists. Plus, exclusive news and analysis every day. Sign up now. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription. Mike Rosenstein may be reached at mrosenstein@njadvancemedia.com. Tell us your coronavirus story or send a tip here. Last week, Spains Supreme Court upheld an 18-month ban from public office and a 30,000 fine imposed on right-wing Catalan regional premier Quim Torra after the Catalan High Court convicted him of disobedience charges last December. The decision was widely anticipated. According to the 133-page ruling, Torra disobeyed the Central Electoral Body (CEB) in an intractable and stubborn manner, by putting up a banner on a Catalan government building that read Free political prisoners. He then refused to take it down after being requested to do so by the CEB. For the second time in three years, an elected Catalan premier has been ousted on bogus grounds by concerted efforts of the Spanish political establishment, the courts and the police. In October 2017, the right-wing Popular Party (PP) government of Mariano Rajoy had removed Carles Puigdemont and the entire Catalan government from office, with the support of the Socialist Party (PSOE) and Podemos. It used article 155 of the Constitution, claiming Puigdemont had violated the law by holding a Catalan independence referendum. Regardless of who holds power in Madridwhether the PP or, as now, the PSOE and the left populist Podemos partythe ruling class pursues the same agenda. It uses the Catalan national question to shift politics to the right, build a police state, and promote far-right forces. In this, it must be said, the bankruptcy and reactionary role of Catalan nationalism only helps Madrid in this campaign. The Supreme Court dismissed an appeal by Torras lawyer, based on the argument that a person can only be deprived of public office and political participation after committing a serious crime. It also ruled that it is itself an impartial court, even when many of the Supreme Court judges sitting in the case had sat on the Catalan referendum leaders trial. In this trial, it sentenced nine Catalan political leaders to between nine and 13 years in prison for charges of sedition and misuse of public funds. Torras banner, free the political prisoners, tried to appeal to widespread anger in Catalonia over the dictatorial policies of the Spanish central government, backed by the European Union (EU). The main architects of this repression have been the PSOE and Podemos. The PSOE, its ministers and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez have supported the Supreme Courts decision, demanding Torra call for new elections in the region. They described his removal from office as opening a new period for Catalonia. Podemos has virtually remained silent, except for the Podemos spokesperson in parliament, Jaume Asens. He absolved Podemos, claiming this was part of a right-wing operation, calling the decision absurd and that the resulting unjust sentence is but one of many more unjust sentences of a judiciary kidnapped by the right. Podemos position was exposed in the Basque regional parliament, however, when the Basque nationalist parties PNV and Bildu attempted to get the left populists to back a joint statement defending Torra. The document called on the Spanish state to stop criminalizing legitimate political demands and respect the exercise of fundamental rights and basic freedoms. However, Podemos refused to sign. In fact, Podemos participated in the anti-Catalan campaign from the beginning. It supported the show trial of Catalan secessionist leaders and then called on the Spanish people to accept their sentencing to lengthy prison terms for organising peaceful protests. They supported the brutal police crackdown on mass protests against the show trial last year, which left hundreds injured. Last year, Podemos leader and current Deputy Prime Minister Pablo Iglesias pledged full loyalty to the PSOE on all state questions, including state repression in Catalonia. Once the Catalan leaders were handed their draconian sentences, and as the streets of major cities in Catalonia filled with tens of thousands of demonstrators, Iglesias said: Everyone must abide by the law and accept the verdict. Torra pointedly noted the role of the PSOE-Podemos government after his removal from office, asking: Where are the airs of democracy and justice that were supposed to come from the most progressive left-wing government in history? The International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) is unequivocally hostile to Catalan nationalism and the Catalan regional government. This institution was inserted into the Spanish political system during the Transition to parliamentary democracy following the death of fascist dictator general Francisco Franco in 1975. It was part of the sordid deal done between the Francoites and the Stalinists, social democrats and Catalan nationalists to block a socialist revolution by the working class. The pro-capitalist, bourgeois-separatist agenda of the Catalan nationalists aims to divide workers across Spain on national lines. Their support for NATO, the European Union and the implementation of austerity underlines their hostility to the working class. Indeed, Torra, while he worked as a right-wing journalist before becoming premier, wrote pieces in defence of Catalan nationalist death squads which killed militant workers in the 1930s. The removal of elected figures like Torra must nonetheless be opposed. This brazen violation of democratic principles is part of a broader anti-Catalan campaign that strengthens a police apparatus aimed above all at the working class. This is the manifestation in Spain of a drive by capitalist governments internationally towards police-state rule against an upsurge of the class struggle, and that has only intensified after the outbreak of the pandemic. The Catalan nationalists cannot and will not oppose this repression, as they fear the working class more than they do a police state in Madrid. Torras own Together for Catalonia (JxCat) and the Catalan Republican Left (ERC), the party of the new caretaker regional premier, Pere Aragones, have de facto accepted the ruling agaist Torra. They will call elections for February 2021. Torra will also try to appeal to the EU, which has already backed Madrids anti-Catalan campaign. Protests broke out last week, gathering around 1,000 people in Barcelona, far from the hundreds of thousands in the past years. A few bins were burnt and pigs heads thrown at the police. The Catalan nationalists decided not to call mass protests. The pseudo-left Candidatures of Popular Unity (CUP) have been key to this demobilisation. A CUP lawmaker in parliament appealed for a new strategic agreement with the main Catalan bourgeois parties, offering them a national and political agreement to build a new unity of secessionist forces to force the state to accept a democratic resolution. In fact, they fear anything tapping into social anger that could erupt outside of their controllike Podemos itself, which recently cancelled demonstrations it had called amid mounting protests against the right-wing Madrid regional governments herd immunity policy. The CUP itself advances a completely demoralized line. One former CUP lawmaker, Benet Salellas, told El Confidencial it is hard to assess the situation in this context of COVID-19, but I think we are facing a change in the cycle due to the perception that the mobilisations are having very little impact on the state. Health Canada needs a comprehensive strategy focused on evaluating and ramping up rapid testing as cases rise across the country, infectious disease experts say. Compared to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)s emergency approval process in the United States, Health Canada has been slower to give approval to COVID-19 tests, they say. The Canadian agency currently has almost a hundred COVID-19 tests under evaluation, from all over the globe. These range from rapid tests to be administered by a health professional, to lab-based tests that require samples to be evaluated elsewhere, to antibody tests. Ten Canadian companies have tests on Health Canadas waiting list, including Biocan Diagnostics Inc. of Coquitlam, B.C. Its antibody test already has emergency FDA approval. London, Ontarios Diagnostics Biochem Canada Inc. has four different tests awaiting approval. The company is on the National Research Council Canadas website as a spotlighted company. Andrew Morris, an infectious disease specialist at Sinai Health and University Health Network, said the FDA has been approving COVID-19 tests more aggressively than Health Canada. Of course, rapid approval has a downside, too: the FDA has been burnt by at least one product, he said. Nonetheless, I think theres no question that we could improve how were going about getting test approval, he said. Health Canada should be taking a strategic approach at evaluating tests, said Morris, putting more focus on rapid tests and less focus on serologic tests, or antibody tests. Health Canada is inundated with serologic technologies, but serologic technologies dont tremendously help us, he said, because they dont test for current cases of COVID-19. What we really need to do is figure out ways to increase our overall throughput and capacity (of COVID-19 testing), he said. Morris said while Health Canada is and should be evaluating tests for their reliability, it could approve less reliable rapid tests for use in certain settings. For example, at schools; if a child is tested daily, the margin of error for the test shrinks. There are a lot of lab-based tests under evaluation in Canada, said Morris, adding he hopes Health Canada will focus on evaluating more home-based and point-of-care rapid tests. They may be doing that. But its certainly not transparent, he said. Biocans vice-president of sales, Bhavjit Jauhar, said in an email that the company has received no communication from Health Canada despite having excellent evaluation results. Jauhar said Health Canada should be taking into consideration tests already approved by the FDA, at least for short-term, emergency approval. He believes Canada is not placing enough importance on antibody tests. Health Canada spokesperson Geoffroy Legault-Thivierge said in an email that the agency has taken numerous steps to expedite the availability of medical devices in support of COVID-19 response efforts. In particular, two interim orders signed in March provided expedited authorization pathways for medical devices and facilitated access to alternate supplies of health products, he said. He added Health Canada is expediting the evaluation and issuance of Medical Device Establishment Licences (MDEL) for companies applying to manufacture Class I medical devices, or import or distribute Class I-IV medical devices in support of COVID-19 response efforts. Canada recently approved its first rapid test, called ID Now, by U.S.-based Abbott. A similar test, also by Abbott, was approved by the FDA in August. Zain Chagla, an infectious disease specialist with McMaster University, generally favours Health Canadas more careful approach over the FDAs. However, he agreed that the agency should be focusing on rapid testing, especially platform-less tests that can be administered easily outside a health care setting. The Abbott ID Now is not platform-less, he said, but Abbott has other tests that meet this criteria. This kind of rapid test could be used to screen children with runny noses before they go to school, for example as long as the public is aware of the limitations, he said. There certainly is a need to prioritize something like that coming to the market, he said. Chagla agreed that its time for a widespread strategy of implementation for these tests, so that when they are approved they can be rolled out quickly. David Juncker, a professor of biomedical engineering at McGill University, said rapid tests will be key to Canadas pre-vaccine strategy, and the more rapid testing is available, the more Canadians will be able to continue doing things like sending their children to school and eating in restaurants. Juncker thinks its time Canada developed a national strategy for the ramping-up of rapid testing, one that goes beyond Health Canada and includes industry, scientists and more. The ability to test frequently, I think, is going to be very critical, he said. Overall, Canada hasnt been proactive or strategic enough, Juncker said. The next several months of the pandemic will require strategy, planning and risk-taking. The technology to make these tests is already available, he added. Its just a matter of putting resources into mass production. The technology for this test is very well established from the 80s its patent-free, so we could just commission someone (to start making them), he said. It is appalling that five years after the historic decision in Obergefell, two justices still consider same-sex couples less worthy of marriage than other couples, said James Esseks, director of the ACLUs LGBT & HIV Project. When you do a job on behalf of the government as an employee or a contractor there is no license to discriminate or turn people away because they do not meet religious criteria. Our government could not function if everyone doing the governments business got to pick their own rules. It is a pet project of Saudi Arabias de facto ruler: a vast new $500bn (385bn) hi-tech city that is supposed to attract foreign investment and jumpstart the kingdoms non-oil economy. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans Neom city-state will include an enormous artificial moon, glow-in-the-dark beaches, robot maids and flying taxis, according to leaked documents. But one thing stands in the way: one of Saudi Arabias oldest tribes, the Huwaitat, who have been toiling as farmers and shepherds in the same locale for centuries. Pushing ahead with the massive project, Saudi authorities in recent months have allegedly arrested, harassed, hounded and even killed members of the tribe for questioning their plans and refusing to sell their ancestral land to the state. When they started Neom in the beginning of 2016, Mohammed bin Salman promised them to be part of it and share in the development and improvement of the area, says Alya Alhwaiti, a London-based activist who is a spokesperson for the tribe. But in 2020, they are forced to leave their land without places to stay. And the minute you open your mouth or say something on social media, you disappear from the face of the earth. Two years after Saudi goons loyal to the crown prince kidnapped, tortured, murdered and dismembered journalist Jamal Khashoggi, repression in the kingdom is as severe as ever. The Huwaitat, a tribe that includes branches in Jordan, Egypt and Palestine as well as Saudi Arabia, are among the most brutalised. Last Thursday, two members of the tribe were detained, one plucked from university, in an attempt to silence and intimidate their outspoken families, says Alhwaiti. Members of the tribe have called upon the United Nations to investigate their plight, arguing that what the Saudi kingdom is doing amounts to destruction of an indigenous people. Contrary to promotional videos released by the marketing team for Neom, claiming that it is being built on virgin land, the Huwaitat tribe have been living on various tracts of that land for hundreds of years, a press release said. Even though construction of the project has slowed because of the global economic meltdown, Saudi authorities continue to evict the Huwaitat tribe from their land, which includes 13 villages along the Red Sea. Last April, one member of the tribe, Abdul Rahim al-Huwaiti, was killed in an encounter with Saudi authorities after he refused to be relocated. Alhwaiti, who originally spent seven years as a professional equestrian employed by Saudi tycoon Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal, says she has received repeated death threats for speaking out for her tribe. She was once warned that she could suffer the same fate that happened to Jamal Khashoggi, and also received messages from people threatening to kidnap her, to gouge her eyes out and to douse her in acid. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (Saudi Royal Palace/AFP via Getty) Originally, she says, the tribe was promised that it would be handsomely compensated for the project, with jobs and benefits. At some point, however, the authorities changed their mind and opted instead to hound the Huwaitat out. The crown prince is forcing people to move, and terrifying and scaring them to move. Neom is built on our bones and our blood, she says. Families have been offered pittances of $3,000 to relocate, and perhaps one out of every 30 families have accepted. Schools have been closed. Electricity has been cut. Mysterious fires are set. They say you have to accept the deal, and if you dont were going to kick you out and you wont get a penny, she says. The atmosphere in general is so terrifying and so scary. The Saudi authorities have said little about the alleged evictions, but the security forces said that Abdul Rahim Al-Huwaiti was killed after he opened fire on security forces, forcing them to retaliate. They say you have to accept the deal and if you dont were going to kick you out and you wont get a penny Alya Alhwaiti Members of Neoms advisory board tell The Independent that no one has been hounded or violently removed from their lands. Saudi Arabia has a history of taking land from everybody to build the state, says Ali Shihabi, a Saudi political analyst and board member. The government has always compensated people above market; in this case, there is nothing unique. They are offering people new housing anywhere they want in Saudi Arabia, he adds, highlighting alleged other benefits including 1,000 overseas scholarships. But London attorney Rodney Dixon, who is representing the tribe, describes systematic attacks on the Huwaitat that amount to potential crimes against humanity and merit international attention. He says he doubts that there is any paper trail showing an effort to destroy the tribe, but points to video evidence showing brutality. People are being forced to leave and not being allowed to return to their indigenous lands, he says. People are being intimidated. Theyve been threatened. It is gratuitous, and needless threats are being used in order to build this big city. To identify the top trends, Cacique teamed up with leading experts in Mexican cuisine including award-winning chef and TV personality Aaron Sanchez of Johnny Sanchez in New Orleans, Chef Bricia Lopez of Guelaguetza in Los Angeles and Chef Santiago Gomez of Cantina La Veinte and Tacology in Miami as well as surveyed home cooks across America to learn which ones they are most excited to try for themselves in the coming year. With more than half of all Americans planning to travel and eat out less in 2021 and about two thirds looking to get more adventurous in the kitchen, it's no surprise 62% are interested in cooking Mexican food at home. According the survey, Mexican food is one of the top cuisines being made in kitchens across America, and a majority of consumers report a growing interest in cooking with authentic ingredients.* The top Mexican food trends for 2021* include: Move over sourdough starter, homemade tortillas are rolling out in 2021! The bread baking craze of 2020 will reach corn and flour tortillas with 55% of Americans reaching for masa harina, flour and tortilla presses to make their own are rolling out in 2021! The bread baking craze of 2020 will reach corn and flour tortillas with 55% of Americans reaching for masa harina, flour and tortilla presses to make their own Americans have a thirst for dehydrated chiles with varieties ranging from pasillas to anchos set to become more popular in American kitchens with varieties ranging from pasillas to anchos set to become more popular in American kitchens 63% of Americans want to go autentico and incorporate more traditional ingredients of Mexican cuisine , so dried chiles, beans and cheeses such as queso fresco will find their way into more American kitchens as people adopt a "from scratch" approach and back to basics techniques , so dried chiles, beans and cheeses such as queso fresco will find their way into more American kitchens as people adopt a approach and Coziness, meet Cozumel as Mexican comfort foods reign supreme and people gravitate toward nostalgic "homemade" style favorites like enchiladas; Restaurants will also get creative adding more of these crowd pleasers to their menus as reign supreme and people gravitate toward nostalgic "homemade" style favorites like enchiladas; Restaurants will also get creative adding more of these crowd pleasers to their menus Get ready to dive into deep, rich sauces , including mole, which will continue to grow in popularity , including mole, which will continue to grow in popularity Salsa macha will share the spotlight thanks to greater exploration of the immense breadth of salsa varieties that exist within Mexican cuisine varieties that exist within Mexican cuisine Food Exploration will satisfy Americans' wanderlust as 55% both plan to travel less in 2021and look to learn the stories behind famous Mexican recipes whether moles from Oaxaca or the countless types of tacos across America "For our third annual What's Next in Mexican Cuisine trend forecast, we wanted to include not just the leading voices in the culinary world, but also Mexican food enthusiasts cooking for their families, knowing that Americans have been doing so more than ever this year," said Gil de Cardenas, Chief Executive Officer, Cacique, Inc. "We're proud to include the perspectives of a new kind of trendsetter that emerged in 2020 those who are embracing authenticity and pushing the envelope while experimenting in their home kitchens." Offering all Mexican food enthusiasts the opportunity to try these trends themselves, the Cacique chef panel designed recipes inspired by the top trends they are predicting for the coming year: Memelas de Chorizo by Chef Bricia Lopez, Tacos Filled with Carne Asada, Pork Chorizo and Chicharron Cooked in a Chile Pasilla Sauce by Chef Santiago Gomez and Chorizo Ragu with Cheesy Toasts by Chef Aaron Sanchez. For more than 45 years, Cacique has remained a family-owned company dedicated to producing the highest-quality authentic products, including Mexican cheeses, creams, chorizos and yogurts. To learn more about Cacique, visit www.caciqueinc.com and find Cacique on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. About Cacique Inc. Family-owned and founded in 1973 on the principles of Family, Quality, Integrity and Authenticity, Cacique is now one of the country's top Hispanic food brands the #1 producer of Hispanic cheeses, creams, yogurts, chorizos and salsas in the United States. Headquartered in Monrovia, California, Cacique remains dedicated to producing authentic, fresh and high quality Hispanic products. For more information about Cacique's line of products, please visit caciqueinc.com or call (800) 521-6987 or (626) 937-3505. *A quantitative, proprietary custom survey was fielded online on September 22, 2020 using a demographically representative sample and insight from market research agency OnePoll, with the following criteria: N=1000 and age 18-73. SOURCE Cacique, Inc. Related Links http://caciqueinc.com DENVER, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Cimarex Energy Co. (NYSE: XEC) today announced it plans to report third quarter 2020 financial results on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, after market close. The company will host its quarterly conference call at 11:00 AM ET on Thursday, November 5, 2020. The call will be webcast and is accessible via the Cimarex website at www.cimarex.com. To join the live, interactive call, please dial 866-367-3053 ten minutes before the scheduled start time (callers in Canada dial 855-669-9657 and international callers dial 412-902-4216). A replay will be available on the company's website. About Cimarex Energy Denver-based Cimarex Energy Co. is an independent oil and gas exploration and production company with principal operations in the Anadarko and Permian Basins of the U.S. SOURCE Cimarex Energy Co. Related Links www.cimarex.com Rotunda Rumblings Drop box decision: Its up to Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose to decide whether to allow multiple ballot drop boxes in each county, Andrew Tobias reports. In a ruling late Friday, a trio of judges on the Ohio 10th District Court of Appeals disagreed somewhat on the particulars but a majority said it was within LaRoses discretion to allow multiple drop boxes. So will he? LaRoses spokeswoman said hes reviewing the decision. Meanwhile: LaRose has been ordered to explain by noon today why he refused to allow collection sites for absentee ballots at libraries in Cuyahoga County. Thats the latest development in a separate federal lawsuit over the drop box issue. John Caniglia has the details. Dont forget! Today is the last day to register to vote for the November election. Donate away: A judge has ruled FirstEnergy Corp., Energy Harbor and ex-House Speaker Larry Householder can still make campaign donations to state lawmakers while the legislature deliberates over what to do about a $1.3 billion nuclear plant bailout and other parts of House Bill 6. As Jeremy Pelzer reports, Attorney General Dave Yost sought the ban as part of his ongoing civil lawsuit against the main figures in the HB6 scandal. Abortion report: Ohio abortions decreased between 2018 and 2019 by 2%. Laura Hancock has the breakdown of the percent of abortions performed by surgery and various kinds of medication. Deterring the vote: Cleveland was among the cities where a controversial Republican-aligned firm identified Black voters and others who could be dissuaded from voting in the 2016 presidential election by targeting them with social-media ads, according to a British TV station. The station provided Tobias with additional Cleveland-specific data from the voter file it obtained. Reminder: The deadline to get a new federally compliant drivers license that will be needed to get through airport security is now one year away, Tobias writes. The REALID deadline was to have been last week, but its now Oct. 1, 2021, after the Trump administration delayed it earlier this year due to the coronavirus. The new ID requires additional forms of proof of identity to get one. Unmasked: Despite the Cleveland Clinics rules requiring face masks for guests at last weeks presidential debate in Cleveland, members of President Donald Trumps family were allowed to go without masks. After Trump tested positive for COVID-19, Seth Richardson took a look back at the rules, which also allowed the campaigns to handle the testing of the candidates and those traveling with them. Negative stories: A number of Ohio politicians who got coronavirus tests because they were near Trump recently all came back with negative results late Friday: U.S. Sen. Rob Portman, U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan, Gov. Mike DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted. Debate details: Husted, who attended the debate, described the health screening process to get in, Hancock reports. And DeWine said that Trumps infection proves that no one is immune to COVID-19. Concerning numbers: The state reported nearly 1,500 new coronavirus cases on Friday, which DeWine called a concern. DeWine also pointed to hospitalization numbers, which appear to be on the rise, though they tend to be revised over time, when the Ohio Hospital Association gets more precise figures, Hancock reports. Saturday saw 1,157 new cases, and 941 were reported on Sunday. Another lawmaker has COVID: State Rep. Joe Miller of Amherst announced he tested positive for the coronavirus on Friday evening, Hancock reports. Medicaid mystery: Just days after DeWine announced that managed care companies need to rebid and compete with other insurers across the nation to win contracts in Ohios $19-billion-a-year Ohio Medicaid program, a new Twitter profile was created called Medicaid Lives Matter. Hat tip to John Corlett of the Center for Community Solutionsfor pointing out the account, which he notes appropriates language from Black Lives Matter. Its unclear who is behind the account, which said it aims to ensure Medicaid lives are the primary consideration when it comes to market changes or questions. Corlett notes some of the first followers were companies that currently have contracts. Not a good sign: In the New York Times' Poll Watch column, Giovanni Russonello took a look at the importance of Ohio in the presidential election and how recent polls look worrisome for Trump. Buckeye battleground: Joe Bidens campaign is making Ohio a battleground again, begins a Politico story by Marc Caputo and Natasha Korecki, which also looks at recent polls and the Biden campaigns recent focus on the Buckeye State. Full Disclosure Five things we learned from the disclosure form of state Sen. Stephanie Kunze, a Republican in the Columbus suburbs who is trying to defend her seat in a competitive challenge by Democrat Crystal Lett. 1. Kunze didnt report any other work outside the legislature. 2. Kunze or a member of her family have a business called Local Level LLC. 3. She has retirement funds with the Ohio School Employees Retirement System, the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System and McDonald Hopkins. 4. She owed at least $1,000 last year to Honda, Chase Bank, Nationwide Bank, Navient, Sallie Mae and Third Federal Savings and Loan. 5. Kunze traveled to a work conference, paid for by Groundwork Ohio, in which her airfare cost $834 and the meals associated with the conference cost $281. Birthdays State Rep. Kyle Koehler; RJ Mancini, legislative aide for state Rep. Shane Wilkin; John Boccieri, former congressman and state representative Straight from the Source That... could not have been an easy thing for him to do. Im sure he didnt want to go the hospital. He made the right decision. -Gov. Mike DeWine, talking about President Donald Trump Sunday on CNNs State of the Union. Shahid Kapoor is currently flying high as his last release Kabir Singh went on to be one of the highest grossers of last year. While the film faced flack from certain sections of the audience, the box-office numbers proved that the film was loved by the audience.The actor is all set to feature in another south remake titled Jersey. However, like several Bollywood projects, the shooting for this film to came to a sudden halt due to the coronavirus pandemic. Keeping the current conditions in mind, the actor has decided to take a pay cut worth a whopping Rs. 8 crore. A source close to the film revealed to a leading news portal, Shahid had previously signed Jersey on two conditions - a remuneration of Rs 33 crore and a percentage in the profit share. The makers had mutually agreed on the same demands and the film shoot was on when the Covid outbreak caused a temporary pause in the film's schedule. In the last few months, the whole perspective of making a film and its budget has changed considerably. So the producers requested their lead star to take a pay cut, to keep the project on floors. They felt the film will otherwise go over-budget. Shahid has slashed his fees by a whopping Rs 8 crore and is now charging them Rs 25 crore. But he is also very confident of the film's success given the way they are shooting it. So the producers have not changed his profit-sharing clause at all.Now that is indeed a class act! security forces Sunday arrested two militants of the Islamic state group (ISIS) who have taken part in several attacks against the armed forces and civilians, reports say. The interior ministry in a statement said one of the militants was responsible for the groups intelligence unit in the western city of Fallujah. The Iraqi army is still facing off sporadic attacks of the terror group declared defeated in 2017. ISIS established itself in the Middle East country in 2014 taking advantage of lawlessness created after the invasion of the country by the U.S in 2003. Amid facing criticism and embarrassment at the global level for violating human rights, sponsoring terrorism and consistently persecuting its ethnic and religious minorities, 'Naya' Pakistan's PM Imran Khan has now turned to recommend books to the youth of the nation. For the month of October, Khan recommended Elif Shafak's "The Forty Rules of Love" for the youth of Pakistan in an attempt to "bring them close" to Islam. 'I read it a few years back...' In an Instagram post on Saturday, the Prime Minister said that the book had deeply inspired him as it was about divine love. "This October I suggest our youth to read 'The Forty Rules of Love' by Elif Shafak," he said. "An inspirational book about divine love, Sufism, Rumi and his Murshid Shams Tabriz. I read it a few years back and was deeply inspired," added Khan. In May, amid the COVID-19 lockdown, Imran Khan had recommended that the youth read the famous book Lost Islamic History. A great read for our youth during lockdown days. An excellent brief history of the driving force that made Islamic civilisation the greatest of its time and then the factors behind its decline. pic.twitter.com/XdTSLFmIjj Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) May 1, 2020 India responds to Pak's Gilgit-Baltistan election bogey According to ANI, the United Nations Human Rights Office, last Tuesday, expressed its concern over the increasing instances of threats of violence against journalists and human rights activists in Pakistan. "We have followed with increasing concern numerous instances of incitement to violence - online and offline - against journalists and human rights defenders in Pakistan, in particular against women and minorities. Especially worrying are accusations of blasphemy - which can put accused individuals at imminent risk of violence," said a spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Rupert Colville in a briefing. READ | Pakistan PM's special advisor inaugurates 'U-turn', after Imran Khan re-inaugurates tunnel Meanwhile, India came down heavily on Pakistan for its decision to hold general elections in Gilgit-Baltistan and said any action to alter the status of the militarily-occupied region has no legal basis. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said the Government of India has conveyed its strong protest to the Government of Pakistan and reiterated that the entire Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, including the areas of so-called Gilgit and Baltistan are an integral part of India by virtue of its accession in 1947. READ | Video of Imran Khan exposing Pakistan Army surfaces; netizens say 'narrating his biopic' "The Government of Pakistan has no locus standi on territories illegally and forcibly occupied by it," the statement reads. The Government of India has also completely rejected the recent actions such as the so-called "Gilgit-Baltistan (Elections and Caretaker Government) Amendment Order 2020 and continued attempts by the Pakistan establishment to bring material changes in areas under its illegal and forcible occupation. Pakistan has announced that elections for the legislative assembly of Gilgit-Baltistan will be held on November 15. READ | Pakistan PM Imran Khan asks party leaders for legal strategy to bring back Sharif from UK READ | Pak PM Imran Khan asks party leaders for legal strategy to bring back Sharif from UK A proposal was brought forward to the Municipality of McDougall at its Sept. 2 meeting that council consider one meeting per month. During the Sept. 21 meeting, Lori West, clerk, read out the options for the 2021 council meeting session from the agenda package. Option one maintained the current meeting schedule being the first and third Wednesday of each month except for January, July and August. The second option explored a hybrid model: One meeting for the month of January, February (however, a special budget meeting would be included), March, July, August and December. Finally, the third option was the proposed one meeting per month with an option to call a special meeting as needed. The discussion as followed began with Coun. Joe Ryman supporting the hybrid model of option two. I think its important that we still maintain months where there are two meetings as we well know there are months where there is a lot to cover and it could require two meetings, said Ryman. Coun. Lewis Malott and Lynne Gregory both agreed with Ryman with Gregory adding, I just dont think once a month is enough. Keeping in the vein of support for the hybrid model, Deputy Mayor Joel Constable said he also thought the second option was the best. I think there could be a negative perception as well in moving to once a month, he said. McDougalls Mayor Dale Robinson brought the consensus to five out of five in agreement and mentioned that the only change was eliminating one meeting in March and one meeting in December. We used to think wed see a lot of activity in the summer from our seasonal residents who were up, but (over) the last few years, I havent noticed anything additional, said Robinson. They just want to come up and enjoy their properties like most people in the summertime. Having just the one meeting in July and in August doesnt seem to have been any problem for staff, council or residents, he said. The adaptation of the new council meeting schedule is set to come forward as a resolution at the Oct. 6 council meeting. WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trumps long-hidden tax returns leaked out. His first debate performance ignited a firestorm over white supremacy. He was hospitalized for COVID-19 after months of playing down the threat of a pandemic that has killed more than 200,000 Americans. And that was just this past week. Trumps reelection team, battered on all sides, now enters the final month of the campaign grappling with deficits in the polls, a shortage of cash and a candidate who is at least temporarily sidelined. In this image released by the White House, President Donald Trump works in the Presidential Suite at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, after testing positive for COVID-19. (Joyce N. Boghosian/The White House via AP)AP The crises, many of Trumps own making, have come so quickly that they are hard to keep straight. Recordings revealed that he acknowledged minimizing the dangers of the coronavirus earlier this year. A blockbuster story raised questions over whether he privately belittled members of the military. And even the first lady was captured on tape expressing disdain for having to decorate the White House for Christmas. Are the political gods simply saying, Your run is over? That four years of chaos has caught up to you? asked Michael Steele, former head of the Republican Party. He predicts the presidents coronavirus diagnosis will overwhelm all the other massive storylines. We are a caring, forgiving people, Steele said of the American public. But while they may show him empathy, they also wont forget that he didnt do all the things he needed to protect himself and the American people. The presidents team is launching what it calls Operation MAGA to propel his campaign forward, even as he was being treated Sunday at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Although Trumps medical team raised the possibility that he could be released as early as Monday, significant questions remained about the presidents health and schedule. The challenges facing the reelection team are enormous. Both heads of Trumps political apparatus campaign manager Bill Stepien and Republican National Committee head Ronna McDaniel tested positive for COVID-19 this week. Also infected: several outside advisers who had been involved in the presidents debate preparations last week, including former White House senior adviser Kellyanne Conway and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. And that comes just days after Brad Parscale, who was demoted from his campaign manager post over the summer but remained in a senior role, was hospitalized. Police were called to his Florida home after his wife said he had a firearm and was acting suicidal. Deputy campaign manager Justin Clark is temporarily overseeing the campaigns headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. Stepien organized a late Saturday staff call to project an optimistic tone, even as he acknowledged the loss of the campaigns best asset, the president. We built a team thats stronger than any one of us singularly, he said. With early voting already underway in many states, Trump has consistently trailed Democrat Joe Biden in national polling even as the margins in most battleground states have been closer. This race is going to be super close. This is officially October. Its officially game time, Stepien said. These are crazy times. These weeks feel like months with the amount of action and news packed into each week. Vice President Mike Pence outlined plans to launch a new effort to ramp up campaign appearances by Trump lieutenants who havent been infected. Pence himself will star in the new effort, in addition to Trumps children. Pence promised that he and the first family would begin fanning out across the country aggressively in person after Wednesdays vice presidential debate. Weve got a campaign to run, Pence said. I promise you, this president, as soon as his doctors say so, hes going to be back out there. But Pences business as usual approach faced questions. Although Pence tested negative for the virus on Sunday, COVID-19 can have a lengthy incubation period. Pence attended a Sept. 26 White House event where Trump announced his Supreme Court pick. Several attendees at that event have since tested positive. Pence also has interacted with key aides since then who have also been exposed. With Trump still not out of the woods, in the words of his doctors, Pence plans to travel to Arizona on Thursday, Indiana on Friday and Florida on Saturday for events rather than isolating himself after potential exposure and trying to protect himself from contracting the virus anywhere else. Were in a campaign. We have a month to go, senior campaign adviser Jason Miller said Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press. We see Joe Biden and Kamala Harris out there campaigning. The Trump campaign was already facing a significant cash deficit to Biden, and now the president has been sidelined from in-person fundraising as well as his signature rallies just as the campaign was about to ramp up his travel schedule. Plans for upcoming events in Florida, Wisconsin, Arizona and Nevada were all scrapped after his diagnosis, and it remained unclear when or if the president would be able to resume campaigning. Hes losing, and the debate was a disaster, and the campaign is imploding, said Republican strategist Steve Schmidt, a vocal Trump critic. The presidents hospitalization also underscores what has long been the Trump campaigns greatest challenge: its inability to shift the national discourse away from the virus. For months, even as the campaign has tried to frame the election as a choice between Trump and Biden, the race has been perceived largely as a referendum on the presidents handling of the pandemic. And Trumps tone on the virus has changed little despite his illness. In a video released late Saturday from the hospital, he expressed no contrition for his handling of the virus and still spoke of quickly moving beyond the pandemic. He is a struggling incumbent, and this all makes reelection much harder. More importantly, the more the nation is discussing the pandemic, the harder the debate gets for the president, said Julian Zelizer, a presidential historian at Princeton University. Still, Zelizer said it would be premature to count Trump out, with a full month to go until Election Day. He has three tools still at his disposal unyielding Republican loyalty, the Electoral College and the power of the presidency, Zelizer said. His ability to tie up voting and spread disinformation remains formidable. For some Democrats, burned by Trumps late surge to defeat Hillary Clinton in 2016, Nov. 3 cant come soon enough. Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville declared: Lets go to the polls tomorrow. ___ Peoples reported from New York. Associated Press writer Jill Colvin in Washington contributed to this report. At least 16 people were injured Monday after a protest in Kyrgyzstan dissolved into clashes with police in the capital Bishkek following a disputed parliamentary election, the health ministry said. The injured were receiving treatment in Bishkek hospitals, said the ministry, while an opposition leader, Janar Akayev, was injured in the clashes, his party Ata-Meken told One-in-four people living in Western Australia say they want the state to break away from the rest of the country for good. WA slammed its borders shut in April as the coronavirus pandemic took hold and has remained closed off ever since. In a recent poll carried out by market research group, Utting Research, 28 per cent of 3,500 Western Australians surveyed said they'd like to see WA become its own country. Some 55 per cent wanted the state to remain in the Federation and 17 per cent didn't know. One-in-four people living in Western Australia say they want the state break away from the rest of the country for good Perth Labor MP, Patrick Gorman, said the results were 'deeply concerning'. 'This poll shows those in the eastern States need to understand the secessionist undertones which have always existed in WA,' he told The West Australian. 'The tyranny of distance between Perth and Canberra often leaves West Australians feeling isolated and ignored by our east coast allies, fuelling the discussion.' Those who voted in the poll were from five different state electorates. About 35 per cent of men and 21 per cent of women wanted WA to secede Australia. Those most supportive of WAxit were aged between 40 and 59 and were not voters of any of the major political parties. Men and those aged between 40-59 were more in favour for a possible WAxit (pictured Perth's skyline) Norman Moore, a former politician in WA who has often spoken out about his secessionist views, said he wasn't shocked by the results. But he said that while he thought the state would thrive on its own, Western Australians felt they were a part of the country more than ever. 'I don't think people see themselves so much as Western Australians anymore, as opposed to being Australians. As the world's got smaller I think a lot of Western Australians now think, "We're now part of Australia",' he said. WA Premier Mark McGowan said reopening the borders to states with few cases would provide no economic benefit Premier Mark McGowan last week remained adamant he would not open his state's borders anytime soon despite coronavirus infection levels reaching a negligible level outside Victoria The state has not recorded a case of coronavirus in the community for 180 days, but still refuses to open up - even to other safe states 'There is no benefit,' Mr McGowan said on Thursday. 'All we'll do is lose jobs were we to open to those [jurisdictions]. 'The other states want us to open the border so that West Australian tourists will flood east, not so that people from the east will come here. 'They're only saying all this for very self-interested reasons because we have higher incomes, we have people that are more used to travelling and therefore we'll have more tourists go from Western Australia to the east.' Mr McGowan said the borders won't come down until the eastern states go 28 days with no community transmissions. TDT | Manama The First High Criminal Court jailed a bootlegger and another person involved for assaulting a cop, resisting arrest and selling alcohol during Ramadan in Salmabad. The first defendant was sentenced to three years in jail, while his two accomplices received jail terms of six-month each. Court files say the trio was caught in an ambush while illegally selling alcoholic beverages in Salmabad industrial area. Case files show police were acting on a tip-off received about one of the suspects illegal activities in the area. Amy Coney Barrett and the zealots By Selwyn Duke Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett is in the grip of dogmas. So goes a criticism made by, ironically, the most dogmatic of people. In fact, the gripe reflects a certain dogma-born prejudice. Oh, I dont speak of the anti-Catholic, anti-religious, anti-pro-life and anti-conservative varieties, though theyre also present. Nor do I refer to how a Muslim nominee would never be subjected to such scorn. Rather, the prejudice here is seldom recognized and something even good people may exhibit. The dogma lives loudly in you, Senator Diane Feinstein (D-Calif.) told Barrett in 2017 during the latters nomination hearing for the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. My answer to the senator would have begun with a simple but sage statement: In truth, there are only two kinds of people; those who accept dogma and know it, and those who accept dogma and dont know it. This was written by potentate of profundity G.K. Chesterton in 1923, and he was, of course, correct (and still is). One of Feinsteins apparent dogmas, for instance, is a common one: that only religious people have dogmas. The Merriam-Webster dictionary lists dogmas very first definition as a: something held as an established opinion, and, boy, the Lefts minions arent short on established opinions. They take as self-evident, for example, that racism, sexism, homophobia and transphobia are wrong. Moreover, the Lefts latest dogmatic model labeled wokeness with typical Idiocracy-level sophistication upholds many additional dogmas: white privilege, Critical Race Theory dictates, that police unfairly target blacks, abortion is civil right, etc. The Left also dogmatically punishes heretics with a societal enforcement mechanism called cancel culture. Some may respond that, unlike religious dogmas, the aforementioned have not been officialized. But this is a false argument. First, many leftists dogmas are part of the Democratic Partys and other liberal organizations platforms/guiding principles. More significantly, however, a beliefs correctness or incorrectness isnt altered by its organizational adoption. Its nature is what it is, and, in fact, beliefs are always embraced informally (at least by some) before theyre ever declared official organization positions. Why, Catholic beliefs, some of which so trouble the left-wing dogmatists, were themselves held as true by many faithful Catholics long before being declared dogma (e.g., the Trinity, not established as official Church doctrine until the Council of Nicea in 325). Furthermore, it is personal, passionately held dogma thats far more relevant to an individuals job performance than dogma officially declared by an organization with which he may have some association. Consider Catholic Justice Sonya Sotomayor. Since her judicial opinions certainly arent constrained by constitutional dictates, ask yourself what appears to most inform them. Catholic teachingor what we currently call leftism? Because something does. The point is that everyone has a world view a philosophical foundation that shapes his positions on everything else. For example, if you believe man is divinely created and infused with a soul upon conception, youll almost assuredly be pro-life. But if youre an atheist, declared or de facto, and consider man just a soulless organic robot comprising some pounds of chemicals and water, you may subscribe to the baby-as-unviable-tissue-mass thesis. Both these positions reflect dogmas. But the dogmas are only recognized as such with respect to the pro-life position because they happen to be dogmas the culture-shaping pseudo-elites, ever blind to their own dogmas, dont like. Either way, though, youll vote to overturn Roe v. Wade if youre true to the Constitution because it does not guarantee a right to abortion. This is where it gets interesting, however. Its clear that so-called religious justices such as Clarence Thomas and the late Antonin Scalia who certainly believe theres a higher law than the Constitution and are supposedly enslaved by dogma, are nonetheless far more likely to adhere to our founding document than their more secular colleagues. This isnt merely because, as Ive explained, the Constitution is by its nature a conservative document. Its not even just that religious justices apparently take oaths more seriously, especially those concluding with So help me God. Its also, first, that since they recognize ours as an ordered universe of moral absolutes, theyre oriented toward absolutes and are more likely to accept legal absolutes as just that like them or not. Second, having the humility born of worshipping God and accepting that theyre not Him, theyre less apt to deify themselves and play God. This constitutional adherence, by the way, is precisely what leftists dont want despite their claims to the contrary. They instead want likeminded justices who view the Constitution as, to quote Thomas Jefferson, a mere thing of waxwhich they may twist and shape in to any form they please. Speaking of which, it is these liberal/secular judges who upon nomination to a higher court should be grilled mercilessly. They should be asked: With what dogma do you justify, wholly contrary to the framers intent, treating the Constitution as a living document? The most fundamental answer is one they wouldnt offer even if they were introspective enough to grasp it. To wit: They reject Truth (absolute by definition) and thus are relativists and, ultimately, such people too often make everything relative to themselves (My will be done!). Hence the judicial thing-of-wax rationalization called pragmatism. Speaking of illusions, theres another common prejudice here, one related to that concerning dogmas. Its the idea, implicit in Feinsteins Barrett criticism, that authentic religiosity should be a disqualifying factor. Its also reflected in our separation of church and state (which is not in the Constitution) dogma, which places religion on the back of the bus. But consider: If the ideas in question really are handed down by God, the Creator of the Universe and Author of All, dont we have an obligation to infuse our public square and schools with them? To this the secularists will say, Well, thats your belief in sky fairies. But these ideas are just man-made. Yet if so, why discriminate against them? Why say that ideas we happen to call secular may be in the public square but those we happen to call religious may not be? If theyre all man-made, wherein lies the relevant difference? The truth hiding in plain sight is that in the most important sense, the religious/secular distinction is a false distinction. Note here that the current predominant usage of secular dates back only to the mid-19th century. In fact, once upon a time in the West the religious vs. secular dichotomy would have made no sense to people at all. Our remote ancestors viewed the relevant distinction as being, most simply put, the true vs. the untrue. Now, you may take issue with, lets say, medieval mans conception of Truth, but the logic is airtight. Consider: If Marxism is essentially false, whats most significant: that we call it secular or that its untrue? If God is real, whats most significant: that belief in Him is labeled religious or that it is true? Oh, and for those assuming theres some greater correlation between so-called secularism and whats true, the birth of Nazism, fascism, Marxism and other sordid and sundry isms says otherwise. There is only the true and the untrue anything obscuring this reality is dark unreality. And the truth about Amy Coney Barrett is, quite possibly, not that the Democrats are afraid shell impose Catholicism. Theyre perhaps afraid that because she honors God, shell also honor her oath and impose constitutionalism. Contact Selwyn Duke, follow him on Gab or Parler (preferably) or Twitter, or log on to SelwynDuke.com. Home Shweta Singh Kriti, sister of Sushant Singh Rajput, has urged extended family to have faith in God and focus on the findings of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the actor's death case. Actress Ankita Lokhande has lent support to her as always. This comes a day after sources said on Saturday that the forensic department of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in its report to the CBI has "ruled out murder" and termed it "a case of hanging and death by suicide". Shweta posted on Instagram: "The test of faith is when you can stay strong and unshaken during the testing time....I urge my extended family to have faith in God and pray from all your heart....Pray that the truth comes out. #AllEyesOnCBI." Ankita commented: "di" with a heart emoji, and also shared the post on her Insta Stories. His fans are with Sushant's family. One wrote: "Di if nothing happens, we will come on roads." Another wrote: "CBI please be fair. We want the truth." Sushant was found dead here in June. Non- parties in West Bengal have slammed BJP's Ballia MP Surendra Singh, who recently said that 'sanskar' (values) should be instilled in girls to prevent incidents of rape, and sought to know why the saffron party was "maintaining silence" over the remark. Singh, while speaking in reference to the Hathras gang- and murder case, said if parents instil 'sanskar' in their daughters while raising them, incidents of can be avoided. "Even if the government flaunts sword before the rapists that won't help in stopping such crimes unless parents teach their daughters to dress properly," he had said. Describing Singh as a "pervert", TMC MP Mahua Moitra tweeted, "Is @ going to break their maunvrat over this sick pervert who is elected on their ticket?" Mitra, who attached a video clip of the UP MLA's remarks with her tweet, further said on Sunday, "Each of these saffron sickos take India back into the dark ages each time they open their mouths."Her senior party colleague and state minister Partha Chatterjee said, "This is what is expected from MLAs like Singh who have no respect and regard for women, who have no proper education and are blighted by medieval ideas. Yet such people are fielded by the BJP, which goes on to show the true colour of the saffron party."Moitra and Chatterjee's political adversary, CPI(M) Legislature Party leader Sujan Chakraborty, too, condemned the statement and said Hindutva forces treat women as "second- class citizens". "This is a distasteful comment. They don't ever consider women equal to men. At certain moments such mindset comes to the fore when their leaders open their mouths." Chakraborty said Singh's "crass comments" have hurt the sentiments of people. Leader of the Congress in Lok Sabha Adhir Choudhury said such remarks by a BJP lawmaker after the "brutal and murder of a Dalit woman will only encourage rapists". "Is he trying to justify their act! Such statement is most unfortunate and not in sync with the vision of a modern India," Choudhury stated. Alleging that cases of Dalit atrocities are continuing unabated in UP and other BJP-ruled states, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had said on Sunday that the saffron party's ideology "enforces caste-based segregation". "Dalit-oppression by BJP ruled Govts is an open secret now. The party's Anti-Dalit ideology enforces caste-based segregation even in today's day & age. Their hardships will not let @BJP4India & its leaders rest peacefully!" the chief minister tweeted. State BJP leader Sayantan Basu, however, said that "the party doesn't approve of the Ballia MLA's statement. "We hope those involved in the Hathras incident are punished soon. But what about the comments of our chief minister after Park Street (rape) incident? She had described it as a minor incident and even cast aspersions on the character of the rape victim," Basu added. (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.) New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio does a social distancing elbow bump as he welcomes students returning to school in Queens - AFP New York is reporting concerning signs of a coronavirus resurgence, which would dash hopes that its high rate of immunity would spare it from a second wave. The city, which had been the epicentre of the USs Covid-19 outbreak before it was hailed as a model of containment, was one of the few success stories in a country struggling to get the pandemic under control. However, it is now seeing the most dramatic uptick in daily cases since June. While numbers in southern and western states have been steadily rising, New Yorks positive test rate had for months been holding at around one per cent. But as one of Americas longest and strictest lockdowns eases, the infection rate in New York has soared to an average of more than 3 per cent and 6 per cent in the "hotspots." Bill de Blasio, the citys mayor, announced on Sunday that he intended to rewind the reopening in nine neighborhoods that have had a testing positivity rate of more than 3 percent over the last seven days. Workers wearing a protective masks prepare to open in the outdoor dining area at the Crown Shy restaurant in New York, US. - Bloomberg In those neighbourhoods, the city will curtail indoor dining and close down schools - both of which only restarted last week, as well all other non-essential businesses. Today, unfortunately, is not a day for celebration, Mr de Blasio said. "It will be difficult for people who have done so much to fight back in this crisis. If approved by Governor Andrew Cuomo, the plan would go into effect on Wednesday. Mr Cuomo has been widely praised for his handling of the outbreak, despite recording 23,800 deaths - 7,000 more than the next nearest state, neighbouring New Jersey. His book American Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the Covid-19 Pandemic, which is due for release next week, has been described as a powerful testament to true leadership in times of extreme crisis by the publisher. Some of the neighbourhoods in Brooklyn and Queens that were hit hardest in March and April are now seeing some of the highest rates of infection, defying some predictions. Story continues Trump supporters gather at a "Triumph Rally" on Staten Island in New York City - Reuters Professor William Hanage, an epidemiologist at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, had said last month that pockets of Brooklyn and Queens, which had recorded the worlds highest rate of antibodies, could have achieved substantial immunity. There are places where there should be less community transmission in the Fall (Autumn) than there would have been, he told The Telegraph. However, he said the question of what localised immunity meant for the wider population as a whole is much more fraught. Even though its true the more immunity you have in a population the more bang you get for your buck when it comes to pharmaceutical intervention, if it isn't distributed theres only so far it matters. New York City has recorded some of the highest rates of immunity in the world. City-wide, more than 27 per cent of those tested have positive antibody results. The borough with the highest rate is the Bronx, at 33 per cent, while Corona in the borough of Queens recorded a nearly 52 per cent positivity rate. Over the past two weeks, the case numbers in just nine postcodes have accounted for more than a quarter the citys cases, despite the fact that the population in those areas make up only seven per cent of the population, according to New York Health Department figures. According to authorities, the most pronounced jumps have been in neighbourhoods of Brooklyn with significant Orthodox Jewish communities, and have coincided with gatherings for the recent holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Men, some not wearing masks, shop for for supplies for the festival of Sukkot in the Hasidic Jewish neighborhood of Boro Park in Brooklyn, New York - Shutterstock New York has mandated the wearing of face masks in public places, however compliance has been found to be lowest in these areas, including Midwood, where the positivity rate is now approaching six per cent, and Williamsburg, whose numbers are three times the citywide rate. Health officials were heckled during a recent outreach effort in Midwood. "Brooklyn is not a Jewish community, we are part of the community," said Steve Zuker speaking in front of the Landaus Shul synagogue. Mr Zucker, 52, said some people believe they have antibodies and are safe from further infection, using that idea as an excuse not to exercise social distancing. "You try to provide and do the right thing, and the rest, we believe in God -- hopefully he is going to do the right thing," he said. The city has looked to address the increase by making automated calls in both English and Yiddish. Mr de Blasio is also sending in police and health workers to the worst-affected areas to promote distancing and mask-wearing, and to issue fines and summons if necessary to anyone refusing to comply. We should be concerned any time there is a spike, Dr Angela Rasmussen, associate research scientist at the Center of Infection and Immunity at the Columbia University School of Public Health, told The Telegraph. New York has done a pretty good job with testing and messaging about risk reduction, but they should rethink opening bars, restaurants, schools in particular. She said one explanation could be that New Yorkers had become complacent, believing they would not see a second wave after such a brutal first one. Its definitely a possibility, she said. Based on seroprevalence data, people should take notice that positivity is going up in NYC and that's something we should all be wary of. Mr Hanage also warned that winter - when the virus thrives - could be a dangerous time for America's most populated city as people crowd together on the underground and indoors in restaurants. "We cannot go back to normal just yet," he said. The View The new faces of racism: Why reconceptualizing bias is essential to our lives By TOLULOPE ODUNSI We must understand that the power in being able to identify covert racism is the power to disrupt it. Swastikas, white hoods, burning crosses, lynchings and racial epithets. In contemporary America, these overt acts and symbols of racism are generally deemed unacceptable. However, systemic racism (systems and institutions that subtly, or not so subtly, disadvantage people of color) persists. Why? Despite recent shifts toward understanding that racism is systemic, many still fail to identify the covert ways racism is embedded in our society. I am the assistant dean for diversity, equity and inclusion at the School of Law. From my lens, one of the biggest tasks of anti-racism work is getting people to reconceptualize what racism looks like. It is making sure that our students, faculty and staff understand that racism is not always packaged in racial slurs or overtly racist acts. The inability to identify and call out covertly racist systems has brought our country to where we now stand: There are two harmful groups in America. One places a presumption of criminality on people of color, particularly Black people. The other accepts blissful ignorance of the reasons why social and economic disparities exist between people of color and their white counterparts. Both represent a large part of Americas population, and they are why we as a nation cant identify and call out racist systems. I thought about this last month while doing something as mundane as purchasing liquor at my local liquor store. I opted to purchase Hennessy, a cognac that gained popularity among Black Americans because it was one of the first mainstream liquor brands to advertise in Black media. What struck me, as I purchased my alcohol of choice, was that I was not allowed to simply collect the Hennessy from the shelf. Instead, I was required to have a store clerk retrieve the bottle for me. When I asked the clerk why, she offered that this was protocol for their more expensive liquors. The problem was that I saw other liquors that were much more expensive than Hennessy available on the shelves. The only conclusion I could draw was that this store presumed that the kind of person who would purchase Hennessy, a drink well known to be popular among Black Americans, might steal it. Unfortunately, this presumption of criminality has caused me to find myself in several situations where I have feared for my safety and for those around me. One incident took place in 2016, shortly after I was sworn in as an attorney. As a newly minted lawyer I, of course, felt as though I had a clear understanding of the rights granted to me under the Constitution. That view was shattered one evening when I was hanging out with some friends in a Buffalo apartment. During the evening, my friends neighbors called the police on us because they felt that we were too loud. When the police arrived, they asked that everyone show their IDs. When my friend questioned why this was necessary, one of the responding officers placed my friend under arrest. In response, I calmly told the officer I was that persons attorney and asked why my friend was being arrested. He pulled his gun from his holster and pointed it at me after I challenged him. Because I want to and I will arrest you, too, little Miss Attorney, he retorted. In that moment, I knew my priority was ensuring the safety of myself and my friend rather than defending our right to be free of unreasonable searches and seizures. I made this intellectual and emotional calculation while confronted with the officers gun. Even while practicing law, the very thing I had just been given permission to do, my behavior was deemed to be criminal. This is the same presumption of criminality that was given to George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Amadou Diallo and countless others who died at the hands of law enforcement officers. This same association between Blackness and criminality impacts Black people in all aspects of criminal justice from higher rates of childhood suspension, expulsion and arrest at school to higher rates of probation and parole revocation. The publics inability to address covert racism such as bias, micro-aggressions, and coded racist language and policies (such as my local liquor store) is why an officer felt emboldened to kneel on George Floyds neck for 8:46, responding to an accusation that Floyd had proffered a counterfeit $20 bill. It is why studies tell us that Black women with natural hairstyles are less likely to be called back for job interviews and that Black newborn babies are three times more likely to die when looked after by white doctors. If racism has no place at the University at Buffalo School of Law or in our society, the question becomes, how do we disrupt racism where it may exist? For me, building an anti-racist culture requires first looking inward and critically examining our own individual impact on people of color. Do we believe them when they share their experiences of racism, or do we deflect and deny that race is an issue? Do we acknowledge the trauma they may feel due to the unprecedented level of national attention on the racial injustice in the U.S., or do we just go on with our day as if nothing is happening? At a systemic level, this work includes swift action to examine and dismantle policies and practices that have a disparately negative impact on people of color. Attorneys and law students are positioned to leverage their legal analysis, research, writing and advocacy skills to do just this. As the late Charles Hamilton Houston once told his Howard University law students, a lawyer is either a social engineer or a parasite on society. As lawyers, even though we might not directly contribute to systemic racism, our silence and failure to act allows it to thrive. Finally, we must understand that the power in being able to identify covert racism is the power to disrupt it. Your browser does not support the audio element. Many temporary markets have appeared around some parks and lakes in Hanoi recently to serve customers who do exercise in the morning. Vendors bring all kinds of commodities, such as vegetables, food, shoes and T-shirts, to their 'stalls' along the entrance to a park or around a lake, where many locals gather to do exercise. Such temporary markets just operate at dawn and will close shortly when residents return home to prepare for a new day. Comfortable and convenient Nguyen Thanh Loan, who is exercising in her casual wear, carries many kinds of food by both hands, such as vegetables, fruits, meat, and some kinds of cakes. "The food is enough for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for my family," said Loan. "I dont have to go to a traditional market anymore. Tomorrow morning, Ill shop again to buy fresh food." In Hanoi, residents enjoy working out at Den Lu Lake in Hoang Mai District. They often finish exercising at around 6:30 am every day and it is time to take a look at small trays piled up with all kinds of vegetables and food. Despite a temporary market, it offers various categories of goods, mainly vegetables, fruits, meat, and fish. Besides, there are clothes, blankets, pillows and footwear. They are mostly affordable. Customers are offered some second-hand stuff such as watches, radios and glasses, and some specialties around the country like shrimp paste, rose apples, and chestnuts. The markets have various kinds of goods but in a small quantity. For their convenience, some vendors even put their stuff such as meat, bananas, and cakes on vehicles as the markets open for only one hour and a half. "For the last three years, people have exercised more in the morning, so small markets like this have mushroomed," Xuyen, a middle-aged woman, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper. "It is convenient to do morning exercise and buy food for families at the same time." There is a wholesale market at the end of a nearby street, but Xuyen only goes there when she needs to buy many commodities. For daily food, this small market is quite enough, she said. Small markets have also opened around large lakes such as the one at Thong Nhat Park and West Lake as vendors often choose crowed places to run their business. Two female buyers stand next to a seller whose goods are put on a motorbike. Photo: Tam Le / Tuoi Tre When shoppers are men Normally, shopping is both the duty and favorite job of women in Vietnam. However, makeshift markets have attracted a lot of male shoppers. Many gentlemen even become good at selecting goods and bargaining after shopping at the markets for several times. Nguyen Xuan Hai, a local resident, carries a big bunch of water morning glory and some bags of meat, onions, chili peppers, lemons on one hand and a bag of bitter melons on the other. I've rarely gone shopping before, but now I buy food almost every day, Hai said with a laugh. Hai goes with an elder man who is carrying a bunch of vegetables, some lemons, and a bag of yellow chrysalises. At a stall selling fish, shellfish, and freshwater crabs, a man chooses some big frogs and asks the seller to make it ready for cooking. Then, he gives them to a woman standing next to him, maybe his wife. In reality, more men do exercise in the morning than women, so many husbands have become 'housewives' at these small markets. Many elderly people find it easier to buy something at temporary markets. They can buy all kinds of stuff without the need to ride a vehicle. Do Thi Hien, 83, is sitting on public steps to take a rest before going home, next to some food she has just bought like bread, some bunches of 'rau ngot' (katuk), and green tea. "This is enough for an old woman. It's safer than buying canned vegetarian food as I am afraid of food poisoning," said Hien. In fact, some buyers are not morning exercisers. They ride a bicycle there to buy food because of convenience, affordable prices, and fresh food. As vendors offer different kinds of goods every day, shoppers are happy because they have various choices. Lam Xuan Truong, a veteran, sits next to a bucket containing some bottles of shrimp paste, one of his hometown's specialities. Photo: Tam Le / Tuoi Tre The poor's livelihood While shoppers are local residents, vendors are mostly migrants who take their goods from everywhere, maybe a wholesale market, some small alleys, or outlying areas. Goods sold at a makshift market are cheap ones and arranged on small trays. Here, a thin woman is selling guavas and there, an old man who has only one arm is selling some bottles of shrimp paste. Among the 'most expensive' goods are freshwater crabs and fish sold by Nguyen Thi Xinh at Den Lu Lake. Despite being considered specialties, Xinh's fish fetch only VND50,000 ($2.16) per kilogram. "As today is Sunday, customers want something new. So, there are a few kilograms of fish left. Fish sell very quickly on normal days," said the fishmonger. Xinh comes to the market at around 5:30 am every day to sell for about one hour. Sometimes, she has to put unsold goods on her bicycle and continue seeking buyers. With this business, Xinh is the breadwinner of a family of four. The man selling shrimp paste whose name is Lam Xuan Truong turns out to be a former serviceman, who lost an arm in wartime. "I have sold my hometown's shrimp paste here for about three months. It tastes really good. I sold five bottles to a customer one time. Some even told others to come to buy my specialty," Truong said proudly. The man sets aside money earned from this business to support his grandson, who is a junior student of the Hanoi University of Science and Technology. He has to study for five years, so I'll try my best to help him, said the man. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- IntSights , the threat intelligence company focused on enabling enterprises to Defend Forward, announced today the launch of the company's newest integrated product and services offering, PCI DSS Threat Intelligence Analyzer, ahead of PCI DSS 4.0 in 2021. This new offering will enable businesses that are required to comply with the PCI DSS a prioritized advanced view of their PCI in-scope systems, data, and assets on the clear, deep, and dark web, before they become a threat and increase risk to their data protection policy. As the only threat intelligence company with a dedicated compliance and data privacy practice, the new IntSights solution empowers our PCI DSS intelligence assessment consultations, which are led by Chris Strand, Chief Compliance Officer at IntSights, and the founder and former leader of the compliance practice at Carbon Black. With threat intelligence emerging as a necessity for PCI DSS covered entities and a critical part of a risk-based approach to cybersecurity, IntSights is enabling continuous compliance with PCI and other regulations, like GDPR, while assisting with audits and improving overall security. IntSights supports PCI DSS by providing customers with the intelligence to prioritize security vulnerabilities and protect systems that process, transmit, and store credit card data. In addition, IntSights helps to validate the secure transmission of cardholder data, providing proactive validation of data encryption technologies, as well as uncovering cardholder data exposure and leakage. IntSights reinforces payment systems tests and processes that help maintain the overall data security policy. "As a long-standing supporter and advocate of the PCI SSC, I am looking forward to the next version of the regulation and collaboration with IntSights' global customer base to infuse the new requirements into compliance strategies," said Chris Strand, Chief Compliance Officer, IntSights. "IntSights is focused on ensuring that global enterprises have visibility into any exposure or risk on the clear, deep, and dark web that would threaten security controls for PCI DSS compliance and other data protection regulations. With this commitment, customers can rest assured that they have an extra set of automated eyes looking out for them." The IntSights approach to PCI DSS gives customers a baseline framework from which they can diminish risk associated with the payments ecosystem. IntSights supports this framework, through: Gap Analysis: IntSights provides native support for the PCI DSS Gap Analysis, identifying gaps to customer security posture through the pre-compliance data gathering process, as well as helping to identify control problems in advance of an audit. IntSights provides native support for the PCI DSS Gap Analysis, identifying gaps to customer security posture through the pre-compliance data gathering process, as well as helping to identify control problems in advance of an audit. Digital Footprinting: IntSights provides targeted digital footprinting to disclose and map an organization's exposure across the clear, deep, and dark web. For PCI DSS, this enables the ability to get full visibility of any cardholder data that may be exposed or stolen. IntSights provides targeted digital footprinting to disclose and map an organization's exposure across the clear, deep, and dark web. For PCI DSS, this enables the ability to get full visibility of any cardholder data that may be exposed or stolen. Risk Assessment: IntSights provides context to the proactive collection of threat intelligence by enriching the PCI annual risk assessment and accelerating the prioritization of vulnerabilities, risks, and threats to cardholder data. Chris Strand, Chief Compliance Officer, IntSights, will be speaking at the 2020 PCI SSC Europe Community Meeting event on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 , in a session titled "How Modern Cyber Threat Intelligence Can Be Used to Accelerate PCI DSS Compliance." To learn more about how IntSights supports PCI, please connect with Chris Strand at the global PCI conferences (US, EMEA, etc.), and read his blog here . About IntSights IntSights is revolutionizing cybersecurity operations with the industry's only all-in-one external threat protection platform designed to neutralize cyberattacks outside the wire. Our unique cyber reconnaissance capabilities enable continuous monitoring of an enterprise's external digital profile across the clear, deep, and dark web to identify emerging threats and orchestrate proactive response. Tailored threat intelligence that seamlessly integrates with security infrastructure for dynamic defense has made IntSights one of the fastest-growing cybersecurity companies in the world. IntSights has offices in Amsterdam, Boston, Dallas, New York, Singapore, Tel Aviv, and Tokyo. To learn more, visit: intsights.com or connect with us on LinkedIn , Twitter , and Facebook . Media Contact: Jonathan Beaton IntSights +1-727-902-8412 [email protected] SOURCE IntSights Related Links https://intsights.com An image of the President of United States Donald Trump singing an empty sheet of paper while getting treatment for coronavirus has been going viral on the internet. But for all the wrong reasons. After testing positive for COVID-19, Trump had to be hospitalized at the Walter Reed Medical Center last week. But his actions since seem to repeatedly be getting him trolled. Trump first faced flak after he stepped out of the hospital for a brief car ride to wave at his supporters. And now, critics are flaying him for a fake photoshoot from inside the hospital. The image, which shows the President hard at work inside the hospital was first shared by daughter and Advisor to President Ivanka Trump. The image was captioned, Nothing can stop him from working for the American people. RELENTLESS!" In another post, she shared a video of Trump sitting at an official work-table and addressing fellow citizens while signing some papers. Nothing can stop him from working for the American people. RELENTLESS! pic.twitter.com/2ZSat782qe Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) October 4, 2020 Spoke to my father again and he is as optimistic, thankful and strong as he looks and sounds in this message to America !!! https://t.co/PJwWksV6vQ Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) October 4, 2020 The posts went viral with many of Trumps fans and supporters harking on his dedication to America. That was until some eagle-eyed naysayers pointed out that the papers Trump was signing were blank. Hahahaha Nobody believes you! Your team is out of lie credits! We cant wait to #VoteBidenHarris2020 abd win this November. https://t.co/jXNBUQKmRJ TruGDem (@TruG4Dem) October 5, 2020 Spare me! Wasting blank paper. https://t.co/KIsj6K5TUF Christy the Infuriated (@clwhite58) October 4, 2020 Youre absolutely right. Working to drive us into the ground. https://t.co/x3PSDcEG1j daniel (@calidan92) October 4, 2020 hold on let me scribble on some blank paper too and get somebody to photograph it https://t.co/z8buAyTwzz kelsey (@misskelslay) October 4, 2020 Nothing is more indicative of @realDonaldTrump presidency than signing blank pieces of paper https://t.co/kykVtt4D4a Brian J. Karem (@BrianKarem) October 4, 2020 This is not the first time that Trump was mocked since his COVID-19 diagnosis. Following the diagnosis, social media platforms were filled with mean comments and even death wishes. So much so that microblogging platform Twitter had to put forth a statement warning trolls of suspension from Twitter if they tweet death wishes for the POTUS. His car trip to greet his fans despite being hospitalized, however, has earned his much trolling with many claiming that President was continuing to disregard basic precautions to contain the virus that has killed more than 209,000 Americans. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and her LNP rival, Deb Frecklington, have ruled out making deals with fringe parties to stitch together a minority government in the event of a hung Parliament. The official election campaign will start on Tuesday, when the government goes into caretaker mode before the October 31 state election. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk during question time on the last sitting day of Parliament in 2020 before the October election. Credit:Matt Dennien Opposition Leader Ms Frecklington said the LNP would put Labor last on every single one of its how-to-vote cards, which show voters how a party wants them to preference their ballot. Make no mistake, this decision does not mean that there have been any deals. There will be no deals and it does not mean anything to do with those minor parties, Ms Frecklington said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Tri Indah Oktavianti (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 16:51 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4932bc4 1 National Jokowi,Joko-Widodo,TNI,Indonesian-Military,TNI-AD,TNI-AU,TNI-AL,defense Free President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo has called on the Indonesian Military (TNI) to become more modern and professional, urging the armed forces to adapt to new potential threats and technological advances. During a ceremony to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the TNI on Monday, Jokowi said the military transformation should be directed toward enabling the armed forces to respond to nonconventional and transnational threats, while keeping the pace with state-of-the-art armament. Following the Reform Era, the TNI has embarked on various organizational transformations to ensure it is able to deliver apt support for the needs of democratic consolidation and to adapt to potential threats during the post-Cold War era," Jokowi said during a ceremony at the State Palace. "Such transformations should be backed by technological advancement as well as transformations of the personnel that control [armament]," he went on to say. Vice President Ma'ruf Amin, TNI commander Air Chief Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto and a few high-ranking officials attended the ceremony on Monday, which was held with limited attendance and with health protocol enforced due to the pandemic. During the event, the President also had a virtual engagement with military personnel stationed in various locations, including those deployed at the COVID-19 hospital on Galang Island of Riau, those on guard at the outer border of North Natuna waters and those in the peacekeeping forces in the Republic of the Congo in Central Africa. In his speech, Jokowi further asserted that advanced military technology was needed to equip the armed forces with strategies and tactics to anticipate wars that may erupt at any time in the future. Read also: Indonesian Military deployed for coronavirus fight "We have to be ready in anticipating new kinds of war in the future that may bring a higher level of destruction, occur within a shorter period and that may use hybrid warfare with a combination of various tactics," Jokowi said. "We have to make every effort to change our policy from defense spending to defense investment, which is a long-term policy developed systematically and being implemented in a consistent and sustainable manner," he added. Jokowi went on to say that technological transformation in armament had to be supported by personnel transformation, adding that TNI personnel had to be able to build synergy with various elements, including with the National Police. The military and the police have long been caught in rivalry manifested through a series of conflicts between the two institutions. One of the latest was an attack on the Ciracas Police station in East Jakarta by TNI personnel in late August. During the event, Jokowi also thanked TNI personnel who joined humanitarian missions, including in handling disasters and forest fires, and those who were involved in supporting the government's efforts to manage the coronavirus pandemic in the country. In an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19, the government has increased the deployment of police and military personnel to improve public compliance with health protocols through Presidential Instruction No. 6/2020 issued in August. Jokowi also appointed Army chief of staff Gen. Andika Perkasa and National Police deputy chief Comr. Gen. Gatot Eddy Pramono as deputy heads of the COVID-19 handling and national economic recovery committee. TOKYO - U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Tuesday that Chinas increasingly assertive actions across the region make it more critical than ever for four Indo-Pacific nations known as the Quad to co-operate to protect their partners and their people from Chinese exploitation, corruption and coercion. Pompeo made the remark at a meeting in Tokyo with the foreign ministers of Japan, India and Australia, who together make up the Quad. The talks were the groups first in-person meeting since the coronavirus pandemic began. Pompeo accused China of covering up the pandemic and worsening it, while threatening freedom, democracy and diversity in the region with its increasingly assertive actions. It is more critical now than ever that we collaborate to protect our people and partners from the Chinese Communist Partys exploitation, corruption and coercion, Pompeo said. We see in the East and South China Seas. The Mekong, the Himalayas, the Taiwan Strait. These are just a few examples. The talks came weeks before the U.S. presidential election and amid tensions between Washington and Beijing over the coronavirus, trade, technology, Hong Kong, Taiwan and human rights. They follow a recent flareup in tensions between China and India over their disputed Himalayan border, while relations between Australia and China have also deteriorated in recent months. Japan, meanwhile, is concerned about Chinas claim to the Japanese-controlled Senkaku Islands, called Diaoyu in China, in the East China Sea. Japan also considers Chinas growing military activity to be a security threat. Japans annual defence policy paper in July accused China of unilaterally changing the status quo in the South China Sea, where it has built and militarized manmade islands and is assertively pressing its claim to virtually all of the seas key fisheries and waterways. China has denied allegations of covering up the pandemic, saying it acted quickly to provide information to the World Health Organization and the world. It says the U.S. is the biggest aggressor in the South China Sea. Beijing also denies human right violations in its handling of Hong Kong and minority Muslims in Xinjiang, and accuses Western nations of meddling in its internal affairs. Earlier Tuesday, new Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said in a meeting with the Quad diplomats that their Free and Open Indo-Pacific security and economic initiative is more important than ever amid challenges from the coronavirus pandemic. The international community faces multiple challenges as it tries to resolve the pandemic, and this is exactly why right now it is time that we should further deepen co-ordination with as many countries as possible that share our vision, Suga said, without directly criticizing China. Suga took office on Sept. 16, vowing to carry on predecessor Shinzo Abes hawkish security and diplomatic stance. Abe was a key driving force behind promoting the FOIP initiative, which Suga called a vision of peace and prosperity of this region and pledged to pursue. Japan and the U.S. have been pushing the FOIP as a way to bring together like-minded countries that share concerns about Chinas growing assertiveness and influence. Pompeo, as well as Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne, Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, and their Japanese counterpart, Toshimitsu Motegi, held talks after meeting Suga together. Pompeo earlier met one on one with his three counterparts, meetings in which according to the State Department reaffirmed the importance of co-operating among them to advance peace, prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific. Pompeo in his talks with Payne shared concerns about Chinas malign activity in the region, while agreeing on the importance of the Quad discussions for the promotion of peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, according to the State Department. Motegi held a working lunch with Pompeo in which the Japanese minister said he expressed hope that Japan and the U.S. will lead the international community to achieve the FOIP. Pompeo attended the Quad meeting, but cancelled subsequent planned visits to South Korea and Mongolia after President Donald Trump was hospitalized with COVID-19. The president was released Monday and returned to the White House. Pompeo was the only one who explicitly criticized China in opening remarks at the Quad meeting. Others used more nuanced language to describe the significance of promoting the concept of the FOIP as an inclusive, rule-based, democratic order that respects territorial sovereignty and peaceful resolution of disputes, rather than making allegations against China. Motegi said after the talks that the Quad members agreed to meet regularly and co-operate in infrastructure building, maritime security, cybersecurity and other areas, and exchange views on the situation in regional seas. Motegi said he proposed to other ministers that the Quad should broaden its co-operation with other countries. But each Quad member has its own political stance toward China and it would be difficult to agree on concrete steps even though they share a perception of China as a common threat, analysts say. Suga, who had been chief Cabinet secretary under Abe, told Japanese media Monday that he will pursue diplomacy based on the Japan-U.S. alliance as a cornerstone and strategically promote the FOIP, while establishing stable relations with neighbours including China and Russia. He said he also plans to promote the FOIP during a planned visit to Southeast Asia later this month. Japan sees the FOIP as crucial for assuring access to sea lanes all the way to Middle East, a key source of oil for the resource-poor island nation. Suga has little experience in diplomacy. Balancing between the U.S., Japans main security ally, and China, its top trading partner, will be tough, analysts say. ___ Associated Press writer Huizhong Wu in Taipei, Taiwan, contributed to this report. ___ Follow Mari Yamaguchi on Twitter at https://www.twitter.com/mariyamaguchi Read more about: CCP Members in Chinas Luoyang City Under Heightened Scrutiny: Leaked Document The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has tightened its grip over its members online speech, as suggested by an urgent notice obtained by The Epoch Times. The official notice was dated Jan. 28, 2020 and jointly issued by the publicity and organization departments under the CCP committee of Luoyang city in Henan Province and the local cyberspace administration. The notice states that it is strictly forbidden to take photos of and record confidential documents, sensitive meetings or events, and to upload them to the internet through WeChat, QQ and other Chinese instant messaging tools. In particular, information on the pandemic must be kept strictly confidential. A user with a China account (L) attempts to send a politically sensitive image in a WeChat group Chat from Citizen Lab testing conducted in January 2017. (Courtesy of Citizen Lab) In fact, a similar document was released on May 27, 2017, to channel the online behavior of CCP members and cadres to ensure they toe the Party line. The leaked documents show all local CCP members, including school teachers, had to sign a letter which guaranteed that they would abide by the rules of proper online behavior. One document shows that teachers in No. 43 Middle School in Luoyang all signed their names on the letter on Oct. 11, 2018. Other local Party members in at least 48 institutions signed the same letter, which involved the Party school of Luoyang city, the local judicial bureau, legal affairs office, Luoyang Daily, and Luoyang Community College. China commentator Li Linyi notes that the reissued internal document in Luoyang suggests that the local authorities themselves know local Party members just do superficial work and merely follow orders. Documenting Negative Behavior Among Party Members On July 26, 2018, Luoyang authorities prepared a document that listed negative behavior that Party members should avoid on social media platforms or on the internet. They included making inappropriate comments about the top CCP leadership; organizing or attending anti-Party activities; attending religious activities; attending protests and rallies; and divulging state secrets or sensitive information. Additional documents show that more than 40 work units reported their performance to the local cyberspace administration, including the local United Front Work Department. For example, Luoyang TV Station stated on Aug. 10, 2018 that it registered 400 employees instant messaging tools and social media accounts, and kept more than 20 WeChat public accounts on file, which were created for various frequencies, channels and shows. Party Organizations Set up in Local Internet Companies With private enterprises growing, the CCP is working to place internet firms under its control and introducing them into the Partys leadership. On Aug. 14, 2017, a survey conducted by Luoyang Cyberspace Administration on Party-building among local internet companies revealed that seven among nine internet companies formed Party branches. Luoyang authorities also established a Party committee in the local internet sector, which is located at the cyberspace administration, and receives guidance from the provincial publicity department and the administration. Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the worlds largest aluminium smelter ex-China, has been honoured with two prestigious awards - Leading Corporate for Investor Relations in Bahrain and Best Investor Relations Professional (Bahrain) - at the 2020 Middle East Investor Relations Association (MEIRA) Annual Conference and Awards Ceremony held virtually last month. The MEIRA Annual Conference and Awards is the largest Investor Relations (IR) event in Mena region which recognises the efforts of regionally listed companies and IR professionals for their critical role in shaping the IR landscape. It is also a platform for locally listed firms, international corporates, investors, research analysts, advisors, and Regulatory bodies to share best practices and discuss the market challenges. Commenting on the win, Albas CEO Ali Al Baqali said: "We never know what kind of market set-up will have for us, but we have this one opportunity to make a first impression with investors and financial community." "We are pleased that our IR discipline and our commitment to stakeholders have been again recognised at the 2020 MEIRA Annual Conference and Awards," he stated. He also commended Albas Director of IR, Insurance and Corporate Secretary Eline Hilal and the IR team for its savviness to advance the IR role of Alba in the region and deliver shareholder value.-TradeArabia News Service IRCC has released dates for the 2020 PGP intake after coronavirus delayed opening in the spring. Canada to re-open parents and grandparents immigration program October 13 IRCC has released dates for the 2020 PGP intake after coronavirus delayed opening in the spring. Canada to re-open parents and grandparents immigration program October 13 IRCC has released dates for the 2020 PGP intake after coronavirus delayed opening in the spring. Canada to re-open parents and grandparents immigration program October 13 IRCC has released dates for the 2020 PGP intake after coronavirus delayed opening in the spring. Shelby Thevenot Kareem El-Assal Aa Accessibility Font Style Serif Sans Font Size A A Canadian citizens and permanent residents will soon be able to apply to sponsor their parents and grandparents to immigrate to Canada. Canadas immigration department says that it will accept interest to sponsor forms for the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) between 12:00 p.m. EDT on October 13 and 12:00 p.m. EST on November 3. These are not applications for the PGP itself, but rather, are an opportunity for people to express their interest in sponsoring their family members for Canadian immigration. Are you eligible for PGP 2020? Complete our free eligibility tool! Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will then randomly select potential sponsors and send them an invitation to submit an application. Selected applicants will have up to 60 days to submit their completed sponsorship application. Read our PGP 2020 FAQ IRCC will accept a maximum of 10,000 applications in 2020. It will open a new intake of interest to sponsor process in 2021 to accept a total of 30,000 new applications. IRCC is also introducing a temporary public policy that will reduce the income requirement for the 2020 tax year to the minimum necessary income, rather than the minimum necessary income plus 30 per cent. This is to accommodate those who have been negatively affected financially by the coronavirus pandemic. Now, more than ever, family reunification is an important component of Canadas immigration system. It plays a key role in attracting, retaining and integrating the best and the brightest from around the world. Marco Mendicino (@marcomendicino) October 5, 2020 Registration opening was supposed to take place earlier this year, but was delayed due to the coronavirus outbreak. IRCC aimed to welcome 21,000 new immigrants through the parents and grandparents program this year, as per the departments immigration levels targets. The targets were announced just days before Canada imposed coronavirus travel restrictions in March. Since then, Canadas immigration levels have fallen significantly. Are you eligible for PGP 2020? Complete our free eligibility tool! How will the 2020 PGP intake process work? Step 1: Potential sponsors indicate their interest IRCC will post the interest to sponsor form on its website for 3 weeks between October 13 on 12 PM EDT and November 3 2020 until 12 PM EST. Individuals with disabilities can also submit a paper copy, Braille, and large print interest to sponsor form to IRCC upon request. They can contact IRCC at 1-888-242-2100 or email the following address until November 3rd: IRCC.PGP.CORRECTION-CORRECTION.PGP.IRCC@cic.gc.ca A random selection process will then be used to ensure the process is fair and all interested sponsors have an equal opportunity to submit an interest to sponsor form and a chance of being invited to apply. Read our PGP 2020 FAQ Step 2: Invitations to apply will be sent to potential sponsors IRCC will review all submissions, remove duplicate entries, and randomize the forms. It will have one round of invitations to apply in 2020, with a maximum of 10,000 applications accepted for processing. Invitations issued by IRCC are non-transferable. Step 3: Applications are submitted Potential sponsors who receive an invitation to apply will have 60 days to submit their completed application. Are you eligible for PGP 2020? Complete our free eligibility tool! Who is eligible to sponsor family through PGP? Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and registered First Nations are able to sponsor their own parents or grandparents, according to the governments webpage. Sponsors must be at least 18 years old, living in Canada, and they must have enough money to support the people who they want to sponsor. Eligibility criteria differs for sponsors living in the province of Quebec. People in the rest of Canada need to have enough financial means to support sponsored family members for 20 years starting when they become permanent residents. In Quebec, it is 10 years and the province also assesses sponsor income. In either case, sponsors must sign an undertaking with the government meaning that theyll provide for the basic needs of the sponsored family member, and that the sponsored person will make every effort to support themselves. The undertaking period is 20 years across Canada but 10 years for sponsors in Quebec. There are also certain cases where people will not be eligible to sponsor their parent or grandparent such as: people who are in jail; who did not pay back immigration loans, performance bonds, or court-order family support payments; or who declared bankruptcy and are not discharged among other circumstances. How much money do you need to sponsor your parents or grandparents to move to Canada? The following is the amount of income you need to demonstrate to go ahead with your sponsorship application for the 2020 PGP: IRCC states that it will assess sponsor incomes for the 2020, 2019, and 2018 tax years, however it will allow sponsors to submit their 2020 tax returns to IRCC after they have submitted their sponsorship applications in early 2021. Sponsors in Quebec need to meet the following financial capacity requirements: Who can be sponsored? The biological or adopted parents and grandparents of eligible Canadians are eligible for sponsorship, as well as step parents in cases of divorce or separation. Brothers, sisters, and half siblings are only eligible to be sponsored if they are dependent children under age 22. If applicants want to sponsor more than one person or couple, they must meet all the income requirements for everyone on the application and their dependants. Sponsored family members will need to provide all the required documents for the application and any additional information such as medical exams, police certificates, and biometrics. The PGP is not for Canadians to sponsor their in-laws, their spouses parents and grandparents, though they may be a co-signer on their in-laws application. Parents and grandparents who are inadmissible to Canada are also ineligible for sponsorship. Are you eligible for PGP 2020? Complete our free eligibility tool! 2020 CIC News All Rights Reserved California wildfires set a grim new record on Sunday after officials announced that it had scorched a record-breaking four million acres this year. The more troubling part is that wildfires continue to burn across California as the fire season is far from over. Burning down four million acres this early into the year is an unexpected figure for California. This area is already bigger than the state of Connecticut. It is also more than double the previous record for the most land burned in a single year in the state. "The 4 million mark is unfathomable. It boggles the mind, and it takes your breath away," said Cal Fire spokesman Scott McLean, adding that the number will still grow. Historic Fire Season This year's fire season has proven itself a historical one. More than 8,200 California wildfires sparked, killing 31 people and burning down 6,250 miles of land as of Sunday. The blazes also took down more than 8,400 buildings, said an Associated Press report. Cal Fire noted that all recording figures on large fires since 1933 have stayed well below the four million acre mark until now. The previous record was set at 1.67 million acres from two years ago, reported CBS News. There are about 17,000 firefighters still fending off the flames throughout the state. Despite reaching this milestone, this weekend is still no time to be optimistic. "Please be cautious outdoors," the agency reminded. It was also during this year when the largest, most destructive blazes occurred since mid-August. Lightning strikes and hot weather added to the scorching daily life of people in California and stoked the fires. In Northern California, the largest wildfire in state history happened with the nearly one million-acre August Complex fire. This fire complex is burning across six counties. So far, the August Complex fire has been 51 percent contained, the NBC News reported. Wildfires Take Toll on Californians A large amount of fires also meant many health and security issues for those living near the flames. They experienced a degree of misery with unhealthy air quality as the smoke grew so dense. The skies across California were blurred for days and even blocked the sun at times. Last month, California experienced a severe heatwave that fueled some fires and caused much more air pollution that it seeped indoors. The event prompted a sellout of air purifiers in stores all over the state. However, there were signs for optimism despite Sunday's grim milestone. Powerful winds that were expected to drive flames recently did not materialize. A layer of fog rolled into the state, and warnings of extreme fire danger died out Saturday morning. The clear skies allowed large air tankers to drop retardant on the fires, helping conditions in the past few days. "In certain areas, we were able to get quite a bit of aircraft in," said Mclean. The fire crews took advantage of the situation and pounded different areas from the skies. "If the weather does what is predicted, we're on that glide path I hope," said Mclean, adding that there is still much more work to be done. Cal Fire meteorologist Tom Bird believed that the change in weather will likely happen in three or four days, and only then can a difference be felt in the weather. Check these out! What We Know About Trump's Doctor Sean Conley Firefighter Who Died Battling El Dorado Fire Identified as Respected Squad Leader Pelosi Praises 'Progress' on Stimulus Deal But Blames Republicans for Delays Christy DeGallerie noticed a startling trend in her online group for coronavirus survivors: White patients got medications shed never heard of, were offered X-rays and their doctors listened to their concerns. That wasnt her experience. When the 29-year-old Black woman sought a COVID-19 test at a New York emergency room, a nurse said she didnt have a fever. DeGallerie appealed to a doctor of color, who told the nurse to check again. It registered 101 degrees. We know our pain is questioned and our pain is not real to them, said DeGallerie, who later started a group for Black COVID-19 survivors. Getting medical help shouldnt be discouraging for anyone. It is a discouraging place for Black people. Addressing experiences like DeGalleries has become a priority for a growing number of local governments, many responding to a pandemic thats amplified racial disparities and the call for racial justice after the police killing of George Floyd and other Black Americans. Since last year, about 70 cities, roughly three dozen counties and three states have declared racism a public health crisis, according to the American Public Health Association. Local leaders say formally acknowledging the role racism plays not just in health care but in housing, the environment, policing and food access is a bold step, especially when it wasnt always a common notion among public health experts. But what the declarations do to address systemic inequalities vary widely, with skeptics saying they are merely symbolic. Kansas City, Missouri, and Indianapolis used their declarations to calculate how to dispense public funding. The mayor of Holyoke, Massachusetts, a mostly white community of roughly 40,000, used a declaration to make Juneteenth a paid city employee holiday. The Minnesota House passed a resolution vowing to actively participate in the dismantling of racism. Wisconsins governor made a verbal commitment, while governors in Nevada and Michigan signed public documents. It is only after we have fully defined the injustice that we can begin to take steps to replace it with a greater system of justice that enables all Michiganders to pursue their fullest dreams and potential, Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II said in a statement. Wisconsins Milwaukee County takes credit for being the first with its May 2019 order. It acted because of sobering health disparities in Wisconsins most populous county, where nearly 70% of the states Black residents live. Its the only county with a significantly higher poverty rate than the state average, 17.5% compared with 10.8% statewide, according to a University of Wisconsin-Madison report. County officials developed a racial equity budget tool, requiring departments to explain plans to hire and retain a diverse workforce and how budgets affect disadvantaged communities. The framing helped accelerate the conversation, not only stakeholders could actually grasp and understand, said Jeff Roman, head of the countys Office on African American Affairs. Kansas City was another early adopter in August 2019. Councilwoman Melissa Robinson called it a new decision-making lens. For instance, when the city approved a $2 million pandemic relief plan, more money went to areas with more Black residents, who have been hit disproportionately hard by the virus, instead of being divided equally among ZIP codes. Lets look at where our communities are hurting the most to lift them up, she said. Officials in Indianapolis approved a resolution in June, and departments proposing budgets now must answer questions like: How does compensation and level of authority compare between white and minority employees? We needed to say it and put it out there so all the decisions we make in this realm are not made in a vacuum, said Vop Osili, president of the Indianapolis City-County Council. To some, the efforts fall short. Some clergy called the Indianapolis resolution meaningless. The head of the Chicago Hispanic Health Coalition said Cook Countys 2019 resolution does nothing to help those lacking health insurance, often because of low-paying jobs. Nearly 20% of Hispanic people under 65 are uninsured, compared with 11% of Black people and 8% of white people, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. We cannot take advantage of people to pay low wages and pay no attention to their health care, coalition director Esther Sciammarella said. Efuru Flowers, co-founder of Black Women Rally for Action, called Los Angeles 2019 declaration problematic. The city offers guidelines, including equality training for city employees. While it notes disparities, like Black residents making up 8% of Los Angeles County but 42% of the homeless population, the solutions dont specifically mention Black people. It does not promote the urgency of eliminating racism in all its forms, said Flowers, who started her Los Angeles County organization after a 2019 health report card revealed poor outcomes for Black women. It doesnt promote or enlist citizens to join the effort. Some are trying to change that. A coalition of hospitals and community clinics took up the cause in Chicago, where a city study showed chronic disease and gun violence are top causes for the almost nine-year gap in life expectancy between Black and white residents. The group published an open letter in June calling racism a real threat to the health of our patients, families and communities. Their goals include increasing access to care, even as one of Chicagos oldest hospitals that serves predominantly Black, Hispanic, elderly and low-income patients is set to close. The group aims to have specific commitments by years end. The reality is that we helped create some of these structural barriers, said Brenda Battle, vice president of the University of Chicago Medicines Urban Health Initiative. We are the ones who have the ability to influence access to health care services. We have not effectively ensured that everybody has access. DeGallerie is encouraged by such efforts but says shes never felt racial disparities so strongly. In her Black COVID-19 survivors group, not being taken seriously by medical professionals is a common theme, as is getting substandard care. Shes skeptical of when shell see change. I would only believe it when it comes from the mouths of patients who are Black, she said. Those are the only people who would be able to tell you that something has changed. Albany, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/05/2020 -- The demand within the global offshore decommissioning market is expected to apex to new heights in the years to follow. Advancements in the marine industry are responsible for the growth of this market. Furthermore, the use of offshore decommissioning to maintain sustained and manageable marine traffic has also aided market growth. Ships and vessels become defunct beyond repair after a point in time, and it becomes necessary to replace them with new vessels. Hence, the domain of offshore decommissioning has emerged as a key area of growth within the marine industry. Furthermore, the seriousness shown by port operators to decommission defunct ships has also driven market demand. Read report Overview- https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/offshore-decommissioning-market.html Digitalisation of the marine industry has made it easier to understand the workability of ships and vessels. Hence, vessel operators are quick to decide on the need for offshore decommissioning. The total volume of revenues within the offshore decommissioning market is projected to increase alongside improvements in marine services. Companies such as Deloitte offer digital services to convert ports into smart docks. Request PDF Brochure https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=B&rep_id=28364 Ships and vessels that start consuming increased amount of fuels need to be reconsidered for sailing. Hence, the need for offshore decommissioning has become an important component of the decision-making process in the marine industry. Several experts have extended their opinions on the ratio of decommissioning that should ideally be followed by vessel operators. Environmental concerns related to the use of excessive number of vessels has also driven market demand. Vessel operators are required to decommission functional ships when the number of ships exceeds the permitted figure. Therefore, the global offshore decommissioning market holds bright prospects for growth and investment in the years to follow. Regions with well-established ports are the largest consumers within the offshore decommissioning market. REQUEST FOR COVID19 IMPACT ANALYSIS https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=covid19&rep_id=28364 Decommissioning is the last phase of any offshore oil and gas project. The process of decommissioning involves safe plugging of the wellbore in the earth's surface and disposal of equipment used in offshore oil and gas production. In the Gulf of Mexico, decommissioning of offshore oil and gas platform has become mandatory for oil and gas operator companies. Decommissioning operation helps maintain safety and sanity of the offshore environment. An offshore decommissioning operation requires 10 steps to be followed for successful completion of the project. These 10 steps are project management; engineering; and planning; permitting and regulatory compliance; platform preparation; well plugging and abandonment; conductor removal; mobilization and demobilization of derrick barges; platform removal; pipeline and power cable decommissioning; materials disposal; and site clearance. Companies operating in the decommissioning market either specialize in one of the aspects or may provide complete services mentioned above. More Trending Reports by Transparency Market Research https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ferrous-sulfate-market-to-reach-valuation-of-us-4-bn-by-2027-growing-prevalence-of-anemia-to-propel-significant-growth-tmr-301066857.html The offshore decommissioning market can be segmented into two broader areas: decommissioning services or activities; and application in shallow water, deep water, and ultra-deep water. The major driver for decommissioning market is strengthen & mandatory legal guidelines for offshore oil and gas operations setup by the regulatory bodies of respective nations. Presence of the aging oil reserves and abandoned wells in matured offshore oil fields across the world is another factor driving the decommissioning market. Major potential risk of oil spill or leakage through these abandoned oil and gas wells may cause ocean water pollution, thereby threatening the marine ecosystem. This poses difficulty in cleaning and recovery of oil spill and then decommissioning the well after any such incident. The cost involved in decommissioning of such disturbed oil wells or platforms is high. Technically, this poses various challenges. Discovery and development of new oil reserves in offshore (mostly deep water) areas around the world is another factor boosting the global offshore decommissioning market. New discoveries of offshore oil deposits such as Liza field in Guyana, Offshore Kutch basin in India, and Tupi offshore oil field in Brazil indicate the future oil production opportunity in these offshore fields, which are likely to require decommissioning services after their abandonment. Recent downturn in prices of oil is expected to be a key restraint to not only exploration and development activities of oil and gas but also decommissioning operations. Decrease in oil prices has caused a continued decline in cash inflow and rise or hike in debt levels could challenge the future of oil and gas industry. The global offshore decommissioning market is expected to expand in the near future. North America is anticipated to be a major region of this market, owing to the presence of the Gulf of Mexico offshore oil reserves in the region. Europe is also estimated to contribute significantly to the offshore decommissioning market, as its North Sea offshore oilfields are & aging. Latin America has significant undeveloped offshore oil reserves in countries such as Venezuela, Brazil, and Guyana. Thus, the region is likely to be an attractive market for offshore decommissioning in the near future. Middle East & Africa has large fossil fuel wealth; thus, the region is expected to be a major contributor to the decommissioning market. The decommissioning market in Asia Pacific is anticipated to expand at a steady pace during the forecast period. Key players operating in the decommissioning market are Petrofac Limited, Aker Solutions, TechnipFMC plc., Ramboll Group, Deepocean Group Holding B.V., Amec Foster Wheeler, PLC., AF Gruppen, Claxton Engineering Services, Ltd., DNV GL AS, and Allseas. When Really should You Employ An SEO Services Company? Posted by Publisher Internet The benefits one can reap the benefits of by hiring the services of an SEO company are undisputed. By optimizing your site for search engines, you\-\-ll be able to definitely achieve greater placements in search engines which, in turn, suggests that your site will take pleasure in far more organic traffic and hence better conversions and enhanced earnings. SEO implementation is not specifically rocket science, so using a bit of work, know-how and dedication you\-\-ll be able to endeavor to do it yourself. On the other hand, in many cases it is actually far more sensible to leave the task to professionals. One error here on your part can expense your site dearly. As a sensible business individual it makes sense to evaluate the several pros and cons of either performing SEO oneself or of hiring professional SEO consultant services before making the choice. Should you determine to accomplish the SEO of your site oneself, you may have the opportunity of learning a lot about operating a website. You also have full control more than all you need to do in your site. On the other hand, the downside of it truly is that it requires many time and work to discover to implement SEO correctly on a website. So, in case you are short of time or have other business affairs to look soon after, you could not be able to study how you can implement SEO efficiently. In such scenarios it does make sense to discover the option of having the aid of an SEO services company. Obviously, you have got to part with money when hiring SEO consultant services, but it does have some obvious benefits. Hiring such services relieves you in the task of undertaking SEO oneself and therefore you could focus on the other vital elements of the business. The SEO services company you choose will have knowledgeable SEO specialists who know their job inside out; they\-\-re going to possess the ideal knowledge and resources and therefore will likely be better in a position to improve the SERPs of one\-\-s site. In reality, the money spent around the correct SEO services is not actually a expense but an investment, which can give fantastic returns inside the extended run. If you think about all these things you\-\-ll be able to choose for yourself in the event you have adequate know-how in SEO matters and when you possess the time for you to carry out the SEO tasks. If not, then it makes sense to employ an expert SEO company to perform the job for you. When hiring an SEO company, always make sure that you decide on one that has an excellent reputation and has some industry presence. You can post queries on well-liked SEO forums and verify out suggestions of companies which have used the services of a specific SEO firm. Expense is an additional significant issue to think about. It doesn\-\-t mean that you just have to go with all the least expensive one. Rather you ought to choose one that fits your price range as well as has experience of working with businesses like yours. Hiring qualified SEO services is probably one with the most effective choices that you can take for the business; the only point is the fact that you ought to employ one only right after thorough study and following evaluating their benefits and drawbacks. Chris Hemsworth and his wife Elsa Pataky have helped release eleven Tasmanian devils into a New South Wales wildlife sanctuary. The Thor star, 37, explained in a Channel Seven news report on Monday that they had 'laid some traps to catch the devils and then were going to release them out into the wild'. The devils, which were free to roam at a 400-hectare wildlife sanctuary in Barrington Tops, were some of the first to be introduced to mainland Australia in roughly 3,000 years. Scroll down for video Conservationist: Chris Hemsworth, 37, and his wife Elsa Pataky have helped release eleven Tasmanian devils into a New South Wales wildlife sanctuary Chris and Elsa proved every inch the animal lovers as they lent their star power to introduce the group of devils to their new wild environment. The heartthrob and passionate conservationist was seen lifting a massive trap containing a devil from the car before he and his wife looked on in delight as they released the animal. On Twitter, the news report was captioned: 'As a superhero, he is more used to saving the world, but for now, @ChrisHemsworth is using his powers to bring an iconic Aussie species back to life. Animal lover: The Thor star explained in a Channel Seven news report on Monday that they had 'laid some traps to catch the devils and then were going to release them out into the wild' Good cause: The devils, which were free to roam at a 400-hectare wildlife sanctuary in Barrington Tops, were some of the first to be introduced to mainland Australia in roughly 3000 years 'The Hollywood superstar and wife @ElsaPataky have helped to make history on the mainland'. Aussie Ark President Tim Faulkner said in a statement: 'In 100 years, we are going to be looking back at this day as the day that set in motion the ecological restoration of an entire country.' 'Not only is this the reintroduction of one of Australias beloved animals, but of an animal that will engineer the entire environment around it, restoring and rebalancing our forest ecology after centuries of devastation from introduced foxes and cats and other invasive predators.' The news report was captioned: 'As a superhero, he is more used to saving the world, but for now, @ChrisHemsworth is using his powers to bring an iconic Aussie species back to life. The Hollywood superstar and wife @ElsaPataky have helped to make history on the mainland' Despite seeing massive stardom in the States, Chris is a proud Australian and relocated from Los Angeles to Byron Bay in 2014. He and his family live close to the town in a newly renovated 'mega-mansion' worth an estimated $20million. He shares three children with Spanish actress Elsa: twin sons Tristan and Sasha, six, and daughter India Rose, seven. Here are todays top news, analysis and opinion. Know all about the latest news and other news updates from Hindustan Times. Were speechless if CBI probe isnt trusted: Sena after AIIMS report on Sushant Days after a panel of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) looking into the autopsy report of Sushant Singh Rajput ruled out murder, Shiv Sena on Monday said that it was speechless if people still questioned the Central Bureau of Investigations (CBIs) probe into the case. Read more GST Council meeting starts, spotlight on compensation to states The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council meeting, chaired by Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, got underway on Monday in Delhi. Apart from Nirmala Sitharaman, Union minister of state (MoS) for finance Anurag Thakur and finance ministers of states and Union territories (UTs) are also attending the virtual meeting. Read more Indian foreign secretary, army chief meet Aung San Suu Kyi Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane met Myanmars state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi for talks on taking forward bilateral relations in a wide range of areas. Read more IPL 2020, CSK vs SRH: Shane Watson and Faf du Plessis etch their name in elite IPL list with 181-run stand Shane Watson and Faf du Plessis ensured that Chennai Super Kings scrapped their losing streak in the 13th season of the Indian Premier League on Sunday. CSK had lost their last 3 matches and were heading on a downward slope. But Watson and du Plessis rose to the occasion against Kings XI Punjab and secured a 10-wicket victory for CSK. Read more Bobby Deol says he was supposed to play Akshay Kumars role in Ajnabee: This industry is ruthless calling the film industry ruthless, has said that projects he set up were taken away from him in the past. The actor in recent years has been making a steady comeback into the mainstream, and has spoken frankly about dropping out of the limelight for several years. Read more Never knew you made out while watching Shah Rukh Khans films: Ekta Kapoor on reviewing Tahira Kashyaps book The 12 Commandments of Being a Woman Putting fans rising anticipation to rest, Juggernaut Books is all set to drop Tahira Kashyap Khurranas fourth book, The 12 Commandments Of Being A Woman and television producer-director Ekta Kapoor cannot stop gushing over it. Read more Tweeple were asked to name a dish they couldnt understand why others liked. Here are the answers When it comes to food, everyone has their own preferences. Some like a specific dish prepared in a certain way. Others may have their choices in terms of what dish goes best with which other item. However, there are some dishes that are enjoyed by many and there will still be those who dont like them at all. Read more Indias active Covid cases hit first-ever plateau; Mecca reopens after curbs Hindustan Times National Political Editor, Sunetra Choudhury brings you the top stories you need to know. Sunetra talks about the number of Covid-19 cases in India so far; Indias Covid active cases hit first-ever plateau; govt targeting 400-500 million vaccine doses by July 21; Mecca reopens after curbs over Covid-19. Watch the full video for more. Watch Struggling Regal Cinemas plans to temporarily close all of its U.S. movie theaters that reopened, according to multiple reports. British parent-company Cineworld will shutter 543 U.S theaters indefinitely as well as its locations in the United Kingdom and Ireland after losing $1.64 billion in the first half of the year due in large part to the coronavirus pandemic, Variety.com and Reuters reported. The tipping point, according to Reuters, was the delayed release of the new James Bond film "No Time To Die, from November to April 2021. Indoor movie theaters have remained closed since March in New York state due to the coronavirus pandemic, but were allowed to reopen in other states. Regals 11 locations in New Jersey reopened at 25% capacity last month. Crowds have been light at theaters across the U.S. since they reopened, Reuters reported. Regal is the second-largest theater chain in the U.S behind AMC. Regal Cinemas has 44 locations in New York state, including at Destiny USA, Great Northern and Shoppingtown malls in the Syracuse area. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JGoldmanNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Rape case Nagpur: A 22-year-old Nepalese woman travelled all the way from Lucknow to file a rape case here in Maharashtra against a man, police said on Monday. Since the man warned her against approaching police in connection with the alleged offence that took place in the Uttar Pradesh capital, the woman fled from there and somehow managed to reach Nagpur, located over 800 km from Lucknow. Advertisement Rape She came to one of her friend here who helped in lodging a zero FIR, they said. A zero First information Report (FIR) can be filed in any police station and it can be later transferred to the appropriate police station having competent jurisdiction. Advertisement As per the woman's complaint, she came to India from Nepal in 2018 for a job. Since March this year, she was staying with a woman friend in the latter's rented flat on Faizabad Road in Lucknow, senior police inspector Wazeer Sheikh said. FIRThe friend introduced the victim to the accused, Pravin Rajpal Yadav, a Lucknow native who worked as software engineer in Dubai, on a video call. Advertisement According to the victim, she had kept Rs 1.5 lakh with her friend and when she asked for it, the latter did not return the money and started beating and harassing her. The victim complained about this to Yadav, who then booked a room for the victim at a hotel in Lucknow and asked her to shift there, the official said. After a couple of days, the accused also came to Lucknow from Dubai. He met the victim at the hotel, where he allegedly drugged her and raped her, the official said. Advertisement The accused also shot some objectionable photographs and videos of the victim. He also took her to a friend's place in Lucknow where he allegedly again gave her drugs and raped her, the official said. RapeThe accused later uploaded the victim's photos on her social media accounts and threatened to make them viral if she did not listen to him or approached police, the official said. The woman somehow managed to escape from Lucknow and came to Nepalese friend in Nagpur on September 30. They went to Koradi police station here and lodged a complaint against Yadav and the victim's woman friend from Lucknow, the official said. Based on the complaint, the police on Saturday lodged a zero FIR against the accused under Indian Penal Code Sections 376 (rape), 354 (molestation), 392 (robbery), 342 (wrongful confinement), 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating), he said. The Homeland Study Group Foundation has denied involvement in the violent incidents in the Volta Region attributed to separatist groups. The leader of the group, Charles Kudzordzi, popularly known as Papavi, said his group has always been nonviolent in its push for part of the Volta Region to be made autonomous country known as Western Togoland. The Homeland Study Group Foundation is a peaceful group; a peace-loving group, a peace-generating group, a peacemaking group, he said in an address from Ho. Attacks on police stations and roadblocks in the region on September 25, as well as the raid and torching of buses at the Ho State Transport Corporation yard have been attributed to the Foundation. Security personnel also said they foiled a plan by the group to burn down the Ho Central Market and other key installations. But Mr. Kudjordjie said he has always favoured dialogue in dealings with state authorities. I have made myself available to the police and to the security agencies on several occasions. Anytime they wanted me, I went there, we had a discussion and then I came home. He further said he had initiated attempts for dialogue with the government but to no avail. I have on two occasions written to the government of Ghana and the President to have us sit down and have this matter discussed at a round table conference. No attention has been paid to the letter. He urged the state to finish its thorough investigations into the incidents before coming to any conclusions. Ghana should intensify its level of investigations against people who do things and not just suspect and arrest people. Speaking subsequently on Eyewitness News, George Nyakpo, the groups spokesperson, criticised the state for using excessive force in its dealings with the group. He feels its members have cooperated with police since the arrest of some of its members on November 19. Some of the groups members were arrested and slapped with treason felony charges but those charges were eventually dropped pending further investigations We have reported to the police, Interpol, for over seven months so why is it that for someone who is reporting to you continuously you now send military men to break his door? Mr. Nyakpo also refuted claims the group was involved in the violent incidents which started on October 25. I don't know why this case is being stretched this way because our founder is very clear. We are not a militia group and we are also not training anybody. ---citinewsroom The adversary has resumed offensive operations in the southern direction of the Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) front. Shushan Stepanyan, spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense of Armenia, wrote about this on Facebook Monday morning. "There are fierce battles. The [Artsakh] Defense Army units are striking a deserving counterblow to the enemy forces," she added. On September 27, the Azerbaijani armed forces launched a large-scale attack against Artsakh, targeting its civilian population, too. As of October 4, the Artsakh Defense Army has destroyed the adversarys 14 combat helicopters, 17 warplanes, 124 drones, 368 units of armored vehiclesmainly tanks, 82 vehicles, and 10 armored personnel carriersone TOS-1A heavy artillery system, 4 Smerch and 1 Uragan rocket launcher systems. The adversary has over 3,145 casualties, more than 5,270 wounded. From the Armenian side, according to preliminary data, there are 209 casualties and more than 200 wounded. The Azerbaijani army also targeted the military and civilian infrastructure of Artsakh and Armenia, as a result of which 2 civilians were killed in Gegharkunik Province of Armenia and 14in Artsakh. Former Australian Idol judge Mark Holden famously dressed up as a character he called Bobo The Clown while appearing on Dancing With The Stars in 2014. The performance, alongside dance partner Jessica Prince, was described as 'creepy' and 'menacing' at the time, and now it's been wiped from YouTube, Mark, 66, claimed on Monday. 'It's been taken off, you just can't find Bobo dancing,' he told Adelaide Now of his bizarre dance on the Channel Seven show. Gone! Former Australian Idol judge Mark Holden (pictured) famously dressed up as a character he called Bobo The Clown while appearing on Dancing With The Stars in 2014. The performance has been wiped from YouTube, Mark, 66, claimed on Monday 'It had had a million hits, people from America were looking for Bindi Irwin on Dancing With the Stars and tripping over Bobo. 'It didn't look good for the Dancing With the Stars brand. If I'd known they were going to do that I would have captured some of the footage myself,' he added. Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Channel Seven for comment. In 2015, Mark told Daily Mail Australia that he had no regrets about the abysmal performance that scored four out of 40, even though he says it ruined his television career. Gone? 'It's been taken off, you just can't find Bobo dancing,' he told Adelaide Now of his bizarre dance on the Channel Seven show. Pictured with dance partner Jessica Prince Not good? 'It didn't look good for the Dancing With the Stars brand. If I'd known they were going to do that I would have captured some of the footage myself,' he added No regrets! In 2015, Mark told Daily Mail Australia that he had no regrets about the abysmal performance that scored four out of 40, even though he says it ruined his television career 'The circus act was the exclamation point to the end of my careers. It properly finished me off, let's face it,' he said. Mark went on: 'I pushed it with the clown act, but had I known then that would have been my last chance on the screen I'd have pushed it further and been more fearless. 'I received so much negative reaction at the time, it was overwhelming and it made me pull back.' Busy man: The former TV personality has turned his hand to working on documentaries - including one on Idol rapper Joel Turner - and is writing a fiction novel He concluded: 'Still, I have no regrets, I loved it, even though it spelled the end for me'. Mark echoed similar statements to Adelaide Now on Monday, saying he wished he'd gone method with the character, like comedian Sacha Baron Cohen does with his Borat character. The former TV personality has turned his hand to working on documentaries - including one on Idol rapper Joel Turner - and is writing a fiction novel. Kangana Ranaut in her plea had sought that the demolition be declared illegal and the court direct BMC to pay her Rs 2 crores as damages. The Bombay High Court on Monday closed all arguments and reserved its verdict on the petition filed by actor Kangana Ranaut against the demolition of a part of her bungalow in Mumbai by the city civic body. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation in a written submission to the court on Monday denied allegations of malice and personal vendetta, and said Ranaut's claim of 2crore as damages from the BMC for partial demolition of her bungalow cannot be "entertained". It said after being served a stop-work notice, Ranaut submitted a "false and evasive reply" denying that any illegal construction work was going on at the site. A bench of Justices SJ Kathawalla and RI Chagla conducted hearings on the plea last week. On Monday, the court accepted written submissions from counsels of Ranaut and the BMC summing up their arguments before closing the matter for orders. Ranaut approached the high court 9 September after the demolition of a part of her bungalow in Pali Hill area here by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). She had sought that the demolition be declared illegal and the court direct BMC to pay her 2 crores as damages. Bombay HC closes arguments, reserves verdict on petition by #KanganaRanaut against demolition of part of her bungalow in Mumbai by civic body Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 5, 2020 In its written submission to the HC, the BMC said it was disputing the actor's claims of several movable property and articles having been damaged during such demolition. There was no proof that any movable property or articles were damaged during the demolition carried out at Ranaut's bungalow. Therefore, paying any compensation for the same was not warranted, it said. "The petitioner's claim for Rs 2 crore compensation for movables/ articles allegedly damaged or destroyed during the demolition cannot be adjudicated in the present proceedings," the BMC said. "The fact that such movables were in fact destroyed during the demolition has been denied and is disputed. The alleged value of such movables is also disputed," it said. "It is respectfully submitted that in the absence of proper proof, such allegations and claims for compensation for loss allegedly caused cannot be entertained," the BMC said in the submission filed through its counsels Joel Carlos, Anil Sakhre and Aspi Chinoy. It reiterated that Ranaut had "brazenly and unlawfully" carried out extensive alterations and additions to the bungalow in breach of its approved building plan. The BMC said after being served a stop-work notice under section 354 (A) of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, Ranaut submitted a "false and evasive reply" denying that any illegal construction work was ongoing at the site. It is because of such false reply that the BMC had to take the next step of issuing a demolition notice and carrying out the demolition work, the civic body said. Both the BMC and its H-ward officer Bhagyawant Late, who is also a party in the case, submitted that the civic body and its officials had been performing their statutory duty in carrying out the demolition work. They denied all allegations of malice and personal vendetta that Ranaut had made in her plea. Ranaut, through her counsel Dr Birendra Saraf, had alleged that the BMC carried out the demolition out of malice following a comment she made against the Mumbai Police that irked the Shiv Sena-led government in Maharashtra. She had also cited an alleged threat given to her by Shiv Sena's chief spokesperson Sanjay Raut in an interview. Saraf told the HC during previous hearings that the demolition was carried out on 9 September, the same day as the interview. The BMC's counsels, had, however, denied the actor's allegations. They said the BMC had simply been performing its statutory duty in demolishing such portions of the bungalow that Ranaut had altered illegally. In an affidavit filed through Carlos, the civic body alleged that despite making illegal structural changes, Ranaut had approached the court for relief. This was an abuse of the process of law, the BMC said and urged the HC to dismiss her plea and impose a cost on her. Raut also told the court through his counsel Pradeep Thorat that the BMC's action had nothing to do with his interview or any other comments made on Ranaut. During the previous hearings, the bench questioned the BMC's swiftness in demolishing Ranaut's property. It also stayed the demolition through an interim order and noted that had the BMC shown similar swiftness in all cases of illegal construction, Mumbai would have been a very different city. The court had also asked Raut if it befitted a parliamentarian to use ungraceful language against a citizen? "Don't you have any grace?" the HC asked after viewing a clip of the interview where Raut asked "what is the law," responding to a question on if he would take legal action against Ranaut for having compared Mumbai to PoK in a tweet. Jacinda Ardern's Labour party has committed to banning gay conversion therapy if re-elected in New Zealand's October 17 election. In an interview with Express magazine, the 40-year-old Labour leader said she was moved to oppose the practice after watching a Joseph Gordon-Levitt movie. 'I still remember watching the film Latter Days at the film festival in Wellington some years ago. That film never left me,' she said. 'It's one of the reasons I feel quite strongly about this policy.' Jacinda Ardern (pictured) plans to ban gay conversion therapy if re-elected on October 17 The 2003 movie depicts a secret relationship between a closeted Mormon and an openly gay friend. Ms Ardern was raised a Mormon but left the church in her 20s in solidarity with gay friends. Conversion therapy is the medically illegitimate practice of attempting to change someone's sexual orientation or gender. It has been banned in the Queensland and ACT, with Victoria also seeking to change its laws to outlaw the practice. In New Zealand, Ms Ardern has been criticised for not implementing a ban in her first term, given both her Labour party and coalition partner the Greens support it. A parliamentary report last year recommended against banning the practice, suggesting it could be a breach on religious freedom, as the therapy is most often pushed by conservative religious groups. Ms Ardern said she was moved to ban gay conversion therapy after watching the film Latter Days starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt (pictured) Kiwis are overwhelmingly for a ban; a TVNZ poll found 72 per cent in favour of outlawing the practice. 'We need numbers in the house to pass legislation,' Ms Ardern said. 'So what I'm committing to is ... our numbers to delivering this and I hope there will other parties in parliament who will support it.' Opposition leader Judith Collins has also signalled her opposition to conversion therapy. 'I'm a parent and I have said to my son, and I hope other parents would also say this, "just be who you are",' she said. 'That's the best thing any parent can do. Not trying to convert your child to anything else.' If given a second term, Labour will also seek laws to make it easier for transgender Kiwis to change their gender on their birth certificate. Ms Ardern's government failed to do so during their first term. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 17:44:04|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close WUHAN, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Central China's Hubei Province reported four imported asymptomatic COVID-19 cases and no increase in domestically transmitted cases Sunday, the provincial health commission said Monday. The four asymptomatic patients were put under quarantine upon arriving at Wuhan Tianhe International Airport from Jakarta, Indonesia, on Oct. 2. They were diagnosed as asymptomatic cases on Sunday. A total of 126 close contacts on the flight have been put under quarantine. Hubei had reported a total of 68,139 confirmed COVID-19 cases, and 63,627 cases had been discharged from hospitals after recovery. The disease has claimed 4,512 lives in the province. Enditem Tropical Storm Delta formed Monday morning and is expected to make landfall in Louisiana, forecasters said. UPDATE: Tropical Storm Delta strengthening: See latest track The current track from the National Hurricane Center has Delta making landfall Friday as a Category 2 hurricane in southeast Louisiana, but the track has an average error of 160 to 200 miles this far out. Heavy rain, dangerous storm surge and gusty winds are all possible, depending on the track and intensity of the system, along the coast from Louisiana to the western Florida panhandle, forecasters said. Now is the time for residents to make plans and prepare. Forecasters also are watching Tropical Storm Gamma, which is weakening in the Gulf of Mexico. It is near the Yucatan peninsula and is not expected to reach the U.S. Gulf Coast. Here's what to know about the tropics as of Monday morning. Tropical Storm Delta forms in the Caribbean As of 7 a.m., Tropical Storm Delta was about 130 miles south of Negril, Jamaica, and about 270 miles southeast of Grand Cayman. The storm is heading northwest at 9 mph. It's expected to pick up speed Tuesday and Wednesday. On the forecast track, the center of the storm is expected to move away from Jamaica later in the day, move near or over the Cayman Islands Monday night and approach the Isle of Youth and western Cuba Tuesday afternoon or evening. Forecasters said the long-term track becomes complex because they are unsure how Tropical Storm Delta will interact with the remnant of Tropical Storm Gamma. The interaction "could result in a sharp westward jog, after which a sharp turn back toward the northwest could occur," according to Stacy R. Stewart, a senior hurricane specialist with the National Hurricane Center. The latest track from the National Hurricane Center has the system moving into the southeastern Gulf of Mexico Tuesday night or early Wednesday. "At some point, the system is expected to turn more northward, and depending on when and where that occurs the expected impacts could still change significantly," according to Phil Grigsby, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Slidell. The long-term track, which often changes, has the storm making landfall Friday near Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes and then turning east toward New Orleans and then heading into Mississippi. Delta's winds could reach Louisiana as early as Thursday morning, forecasters said, but the most likely timing is Thursday night. Will it strengthen? Tropical Storm Delta has sustained winds of 40 mph. Additional strengthening is expected during the next few days, and the tropical storm is expected to be a hurricane when it moves near or over western Cuba. It is expected to have peak winds of 105 mph in the Gulf, the National Hurricane Center. At landfall, 100 mph winds are expected. Tropical-storm-force winds extend up to 45 miles from the center. Storm categories On the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, the wind categories are: Get hurricane updates in your inbox Sign up for updates on storm forecasts, tracks and more. e-mail address * Sign Up Tropical storm: 39 to 73 mph Category 1 hurricane: 74 to 95 mph Category 2 hurricane: 96 to 110 mph Category 3 hurricane (major hurricane): 111 to 129 mph Category 4 hurricane: 130-156 mph Category 5 hurricane: 157 mph and higher Watches and warnings in effect A hurricane watch is in effect for: Cuban provinces of Pinar del Rio and Artemisa Isle of Youth A tropical storm warning is in effect for: Cayman Islands including Little Cayman and Cayman Brac A tropical storm watch is in effect for: Cuba province of La Habana Read the full 7 a.m. advisory. The next one is due at 10 a.m. Tropical Storm Gamma weakens in the Gulf of Mexico Tropical Storm Gamma weakened overnight in the Gulf of Mexico, the National Hurricane Center said. As of 7 a.m., the center of the storm was about 165 miles northeast of Progreso, Mexico, and about 150 miles northwest of Cozumel, Mexico. It's moving southwest at 2 mph. Gamma is forecast stay near the Yucatan for the next day or two, the National Hurricane Center said. Gamma could possibly move inland along the northwest coast of the Yucatan peninsula Tuesday night and Wednesday. Gamma's winds have weakened to 45 mph, and gradual weakening is expected during the next few days. Tropical storm watches and warnings are in effect for parts of Mexico. Read the full 7 a.m. advisory for Gamma. The next one comes out at 10 a.m. What else to know? Systems are named once they strengthen into a tropical storm. The next available name is Epsilon. Forecasters moved to the Greek alphabet in September after using all the available names for the 2020 Atlantic season. No other tropical cyclones are expected to form in the next five days in the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The Atlantic hurricane season ends Nov. 30, but storms can form any time. Don't miss a storm update this hurricane season. Sign up for breaking newsletters. Follow our Hurricane Center Facebook page. Subscriber content preview TUKWILA An industrial property at 15665 Nelson Place in Tukwila has sold for $3 million, according to King County records. The seller was Doremus Family Holdings LLC, which acquired the property in 2006 for a little over $1.3 million. . . . Questo comunicato e stato pubblicato piu di 1 anno fa. Le informazioni su questa pagina potrebbero non essere attendibili. According to a new research published by Polaris Market Research the worldwide smart fleet market is anticipated to reach around USD 629.5 billion by 2026. In 2017, the automotive segment dominated the global market, in terms of revenue. In 2017, North America accounted for the majority share in the global Smart Fleet market. The increasing need to track and monitor fleets to increase operational efficiency, and reduce costs drives the Smart Fleet Market growth. Organizations are increasingly adopting smart fleet systems to increase efficiency, and manage high volume of fleets. The growing need for high speed networks further accelerates the adoption of smart fleet systems. Other factors driving the market growth include growing need to reduce operational costs, increase profitability, and avoid road congestions and accidents. New emerging markets, increasing need to monitor driver behavior, and growing safety concerns are factors expected to influence the market in the coming years. Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/smart-fleet-management-market/request-for-sample North America is expected to lead the global Smart Fleet market during the forecast period. Significant investment by organizations to improve the fleet operations coupled with favorable regulations regarding transportation safety drive the growth of smart fleet in this region. Technological advancement and introduction of advanced smart fleet systems by the market players has increased the acceptance of smart fleet systems in the region. Asia-Pacific Smart Fleet Market is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This is due to economic growth in countries such as China and India, and increasing investments in increasing fleet efficiency. Expansion of global players into these countries to tap market potential boosts the market growth. The various mode of transportation covered in the report include automotive, rolling stock, and marine. Use of smart fleet solutions in automotive sector offers remote monitoring, fuel management, remote diagnostics, and route optimization among other functionalities. Increasing safety concerns, and government regulations regarding vehicular emissions support the growth of this segment. Complete Summary with TOC Available @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/smart-fleet-management-market The well-known companies profiled in the report include Cisco Systems, Inc., Robert Bosch GmbH, Denso Corporation, Sierra Wireless, Inc., Orbcomm, Inc., Siemens AG, Zonar Systems, Inc., IBM Corporation, Continental AG, OTTO Marine Limited, Harman International Industries, Inc., Globecomm Systems, Inc., and Globecomm Systems, Inc. These companies launch new products and collaborate with other market leaders to innovate and launch new products to meet the increasing needs and requirements of consumers. elf Healing Materials Market Size and Forecast by Material Type Coatings Concrete Asphalt Polymers Ceramic Others Self Healing Materials Market Size and Forecast by Technology Type Microencapsulation Reversible Polymers Biological Material Systems Others Self Healing Materials Market Size and Forecast by End-Use Type Automotive Aerospace Electronics Building & Construction Others Self Healing Materials Market Size and Forecast by Regions North America U.S. Canada Europe Germany UK France Asia Pacific China India Japan Latin America Brazil Mexico Middle East & Africa Avail discount on this report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/smart-fleet-management-market/request-for-discount-pricing About Polaris Market Research Polaris Market Research is a global market research and consulting company. We provide unmatched quality of offerings to our clients present globally. The company specializes in providing exceptional market intelligence and in-depth business research services for our clientele spread across different enterprises. We at Polaris are obliged to serve our diverse customer base present across the industries of healthcare, technology, semi-conductors and chemicals among various other industries present around the world. Contact us- Polaris Market Research Phone: 1-646-568-9980 Email: sales@polarismarketresearch.com Web: www.polarismarketresearch.com A thorough investigation and analysis of cases of criminal encroachments committed by the Azerbaijani armed forces against the civilian population of Artsakh was carried out for September 27, 2020 - October 4, 2020, as part of the fact-finding mission organized in the office of the Artsakh Human Rights Defender. The results are presented below: As of October 4, a total of 19 civilians were killed, including 1 young girl, 7 women, and 11 men. A child, five women, and four men were killed in the courtyard of their house, and the rest were killed in public places in different settlements - central square, district. Fatal cases were recorded in the cities of Stepanakert (7 people), Martuni (6 people), Hadrut (1 person) and Martakert (3 people), in the village of Alashan (1 person), and near the village of Mets Shen (1 person) in Martakert region. A total of about 80 people were injured. Of these, 60 were seriously injured - 48 men and 12 women. A total of 24 victims were injured by a shell explosion in or near their home (in 8 cases the shells exploded in the backyard of an apartment building), and 6 people were injured when a shell hit a vehicle while moving to a relatively safe place. Seven people were injured as a result of shelling of the building of the State Emergency Service, which performs humanitarian functions, and 23 - as a result of shelling of other public places. Twenty-two people were seriously injured in Stepanakert or adjacent areas. Since September 27, Azerbaijani armed forces have struck over 60 civilian settlements in the Republic of Artsakh, destroying or damaging numerous infrastructure and private property. In particular, more than 2,100 private real estate objects (houses, shops, etc.), more than 240 cars, about 350 infrastructure, and industrial facilities were seriously damaged. Azerbaijan opened fire on Sunday and Monday at the civil infrastructure and residential buildings of the capital of the Republic of Artsakh - Stepanakert - with heavy rockets. The indicated data are not final, the employees of the Artsakh Ombudsman's office continue the mission of finding the facts, the results will be clarified. The human rights defender emphasizes that victims and wounded were recorded as a result of the use of prohibited types of weapons and prohibited methods, and in recent days, Azerbaijan has begun to widely use against the civilian population also heavy missile and aircraft weapons of a wide range, some of which are of cluster type. Moreover, over the past two days in Stepanakert and a number of other settlements, the Azerbaijani Armed Forces have deliberately and precisely targeted vital infrastructures, which constitutes a serious war crime aggravating the humanitarian crisis in Artsakh. Data of persons who died before October 4 inclusive: 1. Lesmonia Stepanyan, born 1941, city of Hadrut 2.Victoria Gevorkyan, born in 2011, the city of Martuni 3. Ellada Balayan, born in 1961, the city of Martuni 4. Eric Grigoryan, born 1996, Stepanakert 5. Luba Mamunts, born 1957, Martakert 6. Larisa Mamunts, born in 1959, Martakert 7. Grant Khachatryan, born 1955, Martakert 8. Grisha Narinyan, born 1992, Martuni 9. Armen Hovsepyan, born in 1985, Martuni 10. Valerik Dadayan, born 1956, Martuni 11. Data not available, Martuni 12. Data not available, p. Alashan 13. Ruzanna Hovhannisyan, Stepanakert, age to be confirmed 14. Hovik Aghajanyan, Stepanakert, age to be confirmed. 15. Data not available, Stepanakert 16. Suren Mirzoyan, born in 1962, Stepanakert 17. The identities of three more people are being checked India reports 3,33,533 new COVID cases in last 24 hours, recovery rate at 93.18 per cent Cong leader says Covid stamp at airport caused skin burns; Puri responds India oi-Briti Roy Barman New Delhi, Oct 05: Former Member of Parliament and national spokesperson for Congress Madhu Goud Yaskhi on Sunday said he has sustained skin burns and infection from the indelible ink used for stamping international passengers, who have to undergo compulsory home quarantine, on arrival at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International airport. Yaskhi, a former MP from Nizamabad constituency in Telangana, was stamped when he arrived at the airport from New York, on Saturday, to catch a connecting flight to Hyderabad. Before he headed for his flight, he was stamped on his left arm and was to undergo home quarantine in Hyderabad. Maharashtra to stamp people in home quarantine The Congress leader complained that he had an allergic reaction to the ink. Mr. Yakshi took to Twitter, posting images of a badly swollen forearm where he had been stamped. "The moment I was stamped I started feeling itchy. I thought it was normal. By 4.15 pm when my flight took off, the irritation grew and I felt a burning sensation. Gradually, it turned black and it became intolerable," he said. Dear @HardeepSPuri Ji, can you please look into the chemical being used at Delhi airport for stamping on passengers coming from abroad? Yesterday I was stamped at @DelhiAirport and this is how my hands look now. pic.twitter.com/Gt1tZvGc8L Madhu Goud Yaskhi (@MYaskhi) October 4, 2020 Yaskhi tweeted on a picture of his hand on Sunday, tagging Union civil aviation minister Hardeep Puri and asking him to look into the matter. "Dear @ Ji, can you please look into the chemical being used at Delhi airport for stamping on passengers coming from abroad? Yesterday I was stamped at @DelhiAirport and this is how my hands look now," the National Secretary and Spokesperson of the Congress Party wrote. In response to his tweet, Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said, "Thank you for drawing my attention to this. A have spoken to CMD AAI". DIAL, the Delhi airport operator, responded to Yakshi's tweet. "We deeply regret the inconvenience caused. The ink used for stamping is a standard indelible ink. We've reported the issue to the Delhi State Authorities. Currently, this batch of ink is being kept aside for testing by the supplier and further desired action. Thank you for highlighting this issue." JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News At present, all international passengers arriving Delhi need to undergo mandatory institutional quarantine. However, passengers can apply for an exemption from institutional quarantine by uploading their recent Covid-19 negative report on Delhi airports portal Air Suvidha ahead of their flight. Once approved, the passengers will only require home quarantine. Passengers can also get themselves tested for Covid-19 upon their arrival at the Delhi airport and if found negative may head straight for home quarantine. China cant get the better of India in any conflict and the air force, with its capability and intent serving as a deterrent for the adversary, is ready to handle any contingency, Indian Air Force chief RKS Bhadauria said on Monday, even as he acknowledged the strengths of the Chinese air force and gave a broad overview of how the IAF would counter it. Asked if the IAF was ready to take on China in the Ladakh theatre, Air Chief Marshal Bhadauria said, Of course, we are. There is no question of not taking on the threat there. We are very well positioned there and China cant get the better of us in any conflict scenario there. He said India was fully prepared for a two-front war with China and Pakistan. The air force chief was responding to questions from reporters during his annual press conference ahead of the IAF Day on October 8. The IAF chief said there was no question of underestimating the capabilities of the Peoples Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) as it had made huge investments in technology, systems and numbers. He also spoke about the IAFs assessment of the Chinese J-20 fifth-generation fighter aircraft, calling it work in progress. Their strength lies in the number of surface-to-air systems they have deployed in that area and air-launched long-distance weapons. All that we cater to in our matrix and ensure we are in a position to not only take on their strong points but also deploy our offensive action accordingly, Bhadauria said, responding to a question from Hindustan Times. What we do is we integrate our systems and we train to handle such threats based on our assessment. Its all a combination of training, systems and integration and then the area that we are going to get deployed in, he said. He added that the PLAAFs J-20 was a fifth-generation fighter, with advanced sensors and latest technologies but its engine technology was still not fifth-generation. The IAF chief --- short of giving operational details --- has explicitly stated that the IAF is well deployed to meet any threat, said Air Vice Marshal Manmohan Bahadur (retd), additional director general, Centre for Air Power Studies. That no adversary can be taken lightly was also acknowledged by him and that indicates a professional approach to a serious challenge that can come our way, Bahadur added. Asked if the IAF had come close to launching airstrikes against Chinese targets after the June 15 Galwan Valley skirmish in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed, Bhadauria said, No. But we were prepared for it. The IAF chief said how things unfold in the Ladakh sector would depend on the outcome of the ongoing talks that were currently progressing slowly. What we see is an increase in effort to dig in for the winter in terms of forces on ground, and the deployment of air assets. We hope that the talks will progress in the right direction, he said. Responding to a question on the DBO airstrip in eastern Ladakh, the IAF chief said it was a big threat to the Chinese as India had the capability to operate aircraft so close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC). On China using air bases in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Skardu, and the possibility of a two-front war, the IAF chief said, Whether China will use Skardu is an open-ended question. But if China needs Pakistans help to confront us, I have nothing to say. If Skardu gets used by China and we are in conflict with China, then its a collusive threat. And we will deal with it accordingly, Bhadauria said. He said the IAF was prepared for any kind of conventional conflict, including a two-front war. We have full capability for a two-front war, he said. Earlier in his opening address, the IAF chief said the integration of Rafale fighter jets brought in a platform armed with advanced weapons, sensors and technologies that gave the IAF an operational and technological edge. Combined with upgraded operational capabilities of our current fighter fleet, it gives us the ability to shoot first and strike deep and hard, even in contested airspace, the IAF chief said. India ordered 36 Rafale jets from France in a deal worth 59,000 crore in September 2016, of which five jets have arrived. The IAF is operating its Rafale fighter jets in the Ladakh theatre where the military is on high alert. Our immediate offensive deployment of combat-ready units in response to the stand-off along the LAC in the north is indicative of our operational state. We are determined to handle any contingency --- undoubtedly our capability and intent would deter. Our airlift capability was also brought into focus as we supported the Indian Army in rapid mobilisation of troops and equipment to operational areas at a pace which our adversary didnt expect, Bhadauria said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The U.S. is one of the worst affected countries with over 200,000 coronavirus deaths compared to just over 400 in Korea. Kang herself was at the forefront of calls for Koreans to refrain from overseas travel and her ministry issues regular travel advisories warning of dire consequences if they are ignored. Lee Yill-byung, a former professor at Yonsei University, flew to the U.S. on Saturday after his wife's government pleaded with Koreans to forgo their annual Chuseok trips to their ancestral hometown. Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha is being accused of flagrant hypocrisy after her husband jetted off to the U.S. to buy a yacht in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic. Kang is on record as saying people's "private lives are not an absolute right" in defending the government's draconian restrictions. The Chosun Ilbo has learned that Lee planned to visit Greece in June to buy a yacht. At the time, coronavirus infections were raging through Europe, and Kang's ministry urged Koreans to cancel their travel plans. Yet Lee bought a plane ticket to Europe and wrote on his blog at the time, "Since I'm here, I think I'll tour some neighboring countries. If I don't find a yacht I like, there's a chance I'll travel to Denmark, France, Canada or the U.S." In February, Lee visited Vietnam for a week with high school friends. After returning from Vietnam, Lee flew off to the French territory of Martinique in the Caribbean. Confronted by a KBS reporter on his departure to the U.S. on Oct. 3, Lee said, "The coronavirus epidemic is not going to disappear any time soon. I can't sit at home all the time. I can't keep worrying about other people's lives as I live my own." Kang told reporters on Sunday that she was "sorry." But when asked if she intended to ask her husband to return, she said, "He planned the trip for such a long time and postponed it several times, so it's difficult for me to tell him" to come home. Both ruling and opposition party lawmakers criticized Kang. Minjoo Party leader Lee Nak-yon said Lee's actions were "inappropriate in the eyes of the public." Main opposition People Power Party spokesperson Kim Eun-hye said, "Small businesses are suffering from the epidemic, but the family member of a high-ranking government official is traveling and buying a yacht." The ministry is also facing a barrage of criticism for its ambivalence about quarantine guidelines. People Power Party lawmaker Yun Hee-suk said, "The rules set by the government must be unilaterally applied to all citizens. If there are rules that don't have to be adhered to strictly, then the entire public should be informed, not just a handful of well-connected individuals." Foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and Indian Army chief Gen MM Naravane met Myanmars state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi for talks on taking forward bilateral relations in a wide range of areas. As part of Indias efforts to help Myanmar fight the Covid-19 pandemic, Shringla and Naravane handed over a consignment of 3,000 vials of the drug Remdesivir to Suu Kyi, officials said. The foreign secretary and the army chief began two-day visit to Myanmar on Sunday, the first time an Indian delegation to the neighbouring country has included both officials. Their meetings with Myanmars top civil and military leadership are meant to take forward ties in areas ranging from security to connectivity. Shringla and Naravane discussed important bilateral issues during their meeting with Suu Kyi at the foreign ministry in Naypyitaw, the Indian embassy said in a tweet without giving details. India Myanmar Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane and @harshvshringla, Foreign Secretary along with @AmbSaurabhKumar called on State Counsellor H.E. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi @MyanmarSC at @MOFAMyanmar NayPyiTaw on October 5, 2020. They discussed important bilateral issues. pic.twitter.com/3xnUMFCVsZ India in Myanmar (@IndiainMyanmar) October 5, 2020 The operationalisation of Myanmars Sittwe port as part of the Kaladan transit transport project to boost connectivity with Indias northeastern states and enhanced security cooperation to counter activities of militant groups, especially along the borders in Manipur and Nagaland are among the key issues on the agenda of the Indian delegation, people familiar with developments said on condition of anonymity. Also Read: Army chief, foreign secretary to seal shipping agreement and security ties with Myanmar In August, India provided Myanmar $5 million as the annual contribution under a border area development programme that was started in 2012. The programme was initially meant to last five years, and it was later extended till 2022. It has led to the implementation of around 140 projects in Myanmars Chin state and Naga Self-Administered Zone. The safe return of Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh to Myanmar is also expected to figure during the visit. Dhaka has been pressing New Delhi to use its good relations with Naypyitaw to push forward the process, the people said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Lincoln Public Schools elementary school students spend less time in school than their peers in several other Nebraska districts minutes that add up to three to four fewer weeks of school in some cases. That was one of the findings of a district committee that did a four-month study and among other things recommended LPS elementary schools lengthen their days by 37 minutes. Thats not as easy as it sounds: Such a change would require negotiating with the teachers union to change the contract, school board approval, and paying for it in the face of the tightest budget in recent years not to mention trying to leverage such a change in the middle of a pandemic. Now, in a pandemic, probably isnt the time to make formal recommendations to lengthen the school day, said Cindy Schwaninger, one of the directors of elementary education who helped lead the study. We need to get through the pandemic and allow teachers to get through the school day with what theyve got right now. A social enterprise has invited people around the globe to canvas major fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies to join the fight against extreme poverty. Photo: Thankyou. Source: UGC So what does it take to close the gap between 736 million people living in extreme poverty around the world and the USD 36 trillion spent on consumer products each year? No Small Plan A bold initiative, aptly named No Small Plan is calling on two of the worlds largest fast-moving consumer goods companies to step up to a unique challenge set by Australia-based social enterprise, Thankyou. Like the FMCG giants they are challenging, Thankyou produces consumer products such as hand wash, sanitisers and baby lotions. Beyond the cost of running the business, all other money the company makes goes towards ending extreme poverty globally. In Kenya, grants totalling KSh 140 million have so far been given to initiatives such as Lwala Community Alliance, Nuru International and Water & Sanitation for the Urban Poor, who all do important work towards poverty eradication. According to the World Bank definition, extreme poverty refers to those living on less than KSh 190 a day. The already high number of people living below the so-called bread line has only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thankyous No Small Plan campaign is as ambitious in scope as the enormity of the issue they hope to address with the cooperation of people and strategic partnerships. Their logic is simple: the more people who buy their products, the more money can be donated to end extreme poverty. This theory led to the audacity of asking P&G and Unilever to manufacture and distribute their products. By drawing on the power of the collective and leveraging the voices of influential citizens like influencers like Patricia Kihoro, Adelle Onyango and Shiko Nguru, Thankyou is rallying people around the world to join them in asking P&G and Unilever to join a partnership to end poverty. Every social media post takes the movement one step closer to effecting social change and improving the lives of countless people in a tangible way. People can jump on social media, post Im in, are you? and tag @proctergamble and @unilever, using the hashtag #thankyoutotheworld to increase awareness of this brilliant cause. They can also download the thankyou kit and get their friends and family talking about this important issue. Virtual meetings have been set up with both P&G and Unilever and, at the end of the campaign, Thankyou will announce which of these multinationals have agreed to the partnership on one of the largest digital billboards in the world, in New York Citys Times Square. But this leaves an obvious question: what if it doesnt work? What if P&G and Unilever dont heed this collective call? Daniel Flynn, Co-Founder of Thankyou, has a simple answer: What if it does work? {Sponsored} Source: TUKO.co.ke Japan's two biggest automakers, Toyota and Nissan, will ask Britain to reimburse them for additional custom charges incurred if the UK government fails to reach a Brexit trade deal with the European Union, according to reports. The companies - which have car plants in Burnaston and Sunderland respectively - want payments to cover the additional 10 per cent tax on exported vehicles to Europe should Britain crash out of the EU without a trade agreement, says business publication Nikkei. Officials for the car makers declined to comment on the report, though Nissan expressed concern about the potential impact of a no-deal Brexit on its business. Car makers call for compensation: Toyota and Nissan, which produce vehicles in Burnaston and Sunderland respectively, will ask Britain to reimburse them for additional custom charges incurred if the UK fails to reach a Brexit trade deal with the EU, according to a report in Japan 'We urge UK and EU negotiators to work collaboratively towards an orderly, balanced Brexit that will continue to encourage mutually beneficial trade,' Nissan said. Boris Johnson said on Sunday that he did not particularly want the Brexit transition period, which elapses on 31 December, to run out without a trade deal in place, but that Britain could live with such an outcome. The Nikkei report, however, underscores how a failure to agree a new trading relationship could prompt foreign companies operating in Britain to reconsider the viability of operations in the face of extra tariffs that erode profitability, and customs checks and regulations that slowed operations. New cars imported from the EU to the UK would also incur the same 10 per cent tariff, which will be imposed as part of World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules if a trade deal can't be struck. Many car makers have warned that they are unlikely to absorb these additional charges and instead hike the price of their new models so customers have to pay the difference. According to the latest reports, this will see the price of an average family car increase by 1,800. You can find out which brands are set to increase model prices next year in our full report. Toyota's Burnaston site is the the home for production of the Corolla family car sold across Europe In June, the Japanese firm announced it had produced is 4.5 millionth UK car since the Burnaston factory opened in 1992 Toyota operates a plant in Derbyshire, central England, and produced roughly 8 per cent of the 1.52 million cars made in Britain in 2018. In June, the Japanese firm announced it had produced is 4.5 millionth UK car since the Burnaston factory opened in 1992. It also produces engines at a factory in Wales. Nissan has the UK's largest single manufacturing plant in Sunderland, north-eastern England, which employs 7,000 staff. Only Jaguar Land Rover produced more cars in Britain than Nissan last year. The Sunderland factory - where the Qashqai and Juke compact SUVs are built, along with the Leag electric car - would be 'unsustainable' if Britain leaves the EU without a trade deal, Nissan said in June Nissan has the UK's largest single manufacturing plant in Sunderland, north-eastern England, which employs 7,000 staff. Only Jaguar Land Rover produced more cars in Britain than Nissan last year Last summer, Nissan confirmed it had built its 10 millionth vehicle at the Sunderland plant The Sunderland factory - where the Qashqai and Juke compact SUVs are built, along with the Leag electric car - would be 'unsustainable' if Britain leaves the EU without a trade deal, Nissan said in June. The Japanese brand confirmed in March that it was pushing ahead with plans to build its new Qashqai in Sunderland. When it first announced the 52million investment in 2016, the car maker said it had won reassurances from the British government that Brexit would not affect its competitiveness. WATERLOO A fight outside Conestoga Mall led to a man being shot in the face and torso with a BB gun, say Waterloo Regional Police. The shooting happened on Sunday around 3:20 p.m. Police say it started as a verbal fight between two men that escalated to punches being thrown and then progressed to one man shooting the other several times with a BB gun. Police say it was a targeted incident and are still looking for the suspect. The victim was taken to hospital with minor injuries. Anyone with information is asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers. Its all systems go today as schools reopen all over the Philippines, with the Department of Education saying that more than 90% of learning modules have been distributed to teachers in the country. Based on our monitoring, we have distributed more than 90%. Based on our commitment [to the schools], all of this has been given away, Education Undersecretary Diosdado San Antonio said today in English and Filipino in an interview with ABS-CBNs Teleradyo. San Antonio said that learning modules are more appropriate for distance learning than conventional books. Read: Just Play: Duterte wants classes postponed until COVID-19 vax becomes available In different parts of the world, they use modules for distance learningYou can still use books, but what we want are learning resources appropriate for distance learning, which are modules. But in case not everyone receives them, they can use books, he said. [But] if they use books, theres more effort involved [when using it for] distance learning, and we are in the middle of a pandemic. We want to give the children the most appropriate learning resource available, San Antonio added. President Rodrigo Duterte has said that he wants face-to-face classes postponed until a COVID-19 vaccine becomes available. The Department of Education implemented blended learning as an alternative, but the method posed almost insurmountable challenges for both teachers and students. For this reason, the government was forced to postpone the resumption of classes from August to this month. Meanwhile, San Antonio said today that local governments are responsible for suspending classes in cases of inclement weather. Mayors and governors are responsible for announcing class suspensions. We suggest that on the day when there is a typhoon, no one will have to study, the government official said. This article, At least 90% of learning modules distributed to Filipino teachers as schools reopen, originally appeared on Coconuts, Asia's leading alternative media company. Los Angeles: Hollywood star Josh Brolin says he had more fun in playing villainous Thanos in the last two Avengers films while his role of Cable in Deadpool 2 felt harder despite being funny. During an interview with James and Roger Deakins on this weeks episode of the Team Deakins podcast, Brolin said acting in Deadpool 2 felt like more of a business transaction as he had to tailor his performance to suit the specific comedic tone of the franchise. Thanos, with his obsession for balance in the universe, on the other hand, gave him more room to experiment. I mentioned Brando in Apocalypse Now, this guy who is very elusive and insane but what he is saying makes sense and is poetical, Brolin said. I started seeing the parallel which I liked for me. I loved being able to resort to a film like Apocalypse Now when I was doing something like Avengers. Though Brolins Thanos was created with the help of the motion capture technology, to the actor it felt like he was tapping into someone who felt like a real guy. This is not a big purple guy this is a guy with insides and cells and feelings. Then it became fun. To me, it was like going to do 1970s black box theater in New York. You totally resort to your imagination. It is absolutely behavioral, if not more than other movies, the actor said. Deadpool was hard. Even though it was funny, it was harder. That was more of a business transaction, it was more, We need to make this like this, which I didnt feel that way with Avengers. With those directors, they would constantly go back and reference Scarface or Dog Day Afternoon. Whether or not it was a manipulation, they knew what to throw out there to bring it back into something inspired. Brolins Thanos was killed off at the end of Avengers: Endgame but the actor has expressed in the past that he would love to revive Cable in a third Deadpool movie if it is made. Ryan Reynolds plays the titular foul-mouthed superhero in the movie franchise at the Fox Studios, which is now owned by Disney. MONTREAL - Charmaine Nelson wagers that if you asked people in cities across Canada what they know about the history of slavery in this country, most would be surprised to hear that the practice even took place. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 5/10/2020 (474 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. MONTREAL - Charmaine Nelson wagers that if you asked people in cities across Canada what they know about the history of slavery in this country, most would be surprised to hear that the practice even took place. "There's a 200-year history of slavery in this nation that has yet to be even in any surface way taken on or tackled by academics, or the lay public or the media," said Nelson, Canada Research Chair in Transatlantic Black Diasporic Art and Community Engagement. Charmaine Nelson is shown in a handout photo. Nelson says that if you asked people in cities across Canada what they know about the history of slavery in this country, most would be surprised to hear that the practice even took place here. THE CANADIAN PRSS/HO-Charles Michael*MANDATORY CREDIT* But that is something Nelson, a former art history professor at McGill University, is hoping to change as she spearheads the launch of the first research institute in the country dedicated to the study of Canadian slavery. Canadian slavery, she explained, took place in a 200-year window before 1833. That's the year the Slavery Abolition Act was passed in the United Kingdom, officially ordering the end of slavery in most British colonies, including what became Canada. The Institute for the Study of Canadian Slavery will be established at the Nova Scotia School of Art and Design (NSCAD) in Halifax, where Nelson said scholars, artists, filmmakers and others will be encouraged to explore slavery through different media. The infrastructure for the institute is being funded through the Canadian Foundation for Innovation and the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage. "The impact of Dr. Nelson's work to uncover, preserve, and share the difficult history of Transatlantic slavery will start here in Halifax a city that continues to confront systemic racism built on generations of discrimination and it will ripple across the country and around the world," Andy Fillmore, the Liberal MP for Halifax, said in a statement when the project was first announced. Slavery in Canada has been explored before in films and books, such as Lawrence Hill's "The Book of Negroes" and Afua Cooper's "The Hanging of Angelique," which details the death of Marie-Joseph Angelique, an enslaved Black woman in Montreal in the 1730s. In 2008, Ontario designated Aug. 1 as Emancipation Day to commemorate the 1833 Abolition Act, and Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard of Nova Scotia is pushing to have Emancipation Day recognized across Canada. But the issue remains contentious and political leaders, among others, still dispute the idea that systemic racism, which scholars say can be traced back to the history of slavery and all the consequences that derived from it, exists in Canada. In June, as mass protests against racism and police brutality broke out in the United States and Canada after the death of George Floyd in Minnesota, Quebec Premier Francois Legault asserted that, unlike the U.S., Quebec had "not experienced slavery." However, one of the province's most prominent historical figures, James McGill, who founded the university bearing his name, owned enslaved people. The university said last week that it plans to install a plaque next to a James McGill statue on its campus outlining his "involvement with the Transatlantic slave trade and his ownership of enslaved peoples." Nelson, speaking in an interview before McGill's announcement, said the university needs to go much further to acknowledge how it benefited from slavery and enact concrete policies to tackle anti-Black racism. "On whose backs did he make his money?" Nelson asked. A similar debate is happening in Ontario, and in Nova Scotia, the descendants of African-Americans who came to Canada as British loyalists during the American Revolution some of whom were enslaved are still fighting to have their land rights recognized. Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil apologized to Black and Indigenous people on Sept. 29 for systemic racism in the justice system and said his government was committed to reforms. Rachel Zellars, a lawyer and assistant professor in the department of social justice and community studies at Saint Mary's University in Halifax, said it is impossible to understand the current movements challenging anti-Black racism around the world without first understanding the history of slavery. Having the institute in the Maritimes is also critical, Zellars said in an interview, because the region's place in the Transatlantic slave routes is "powerfully traceable" notably as it pertains to trade with the West Indies. She said she hopes people will learn about the enslaved Black women who were brought to Canada from the U.S. and were re-enslaved here, such as Elizabeth Watson, who came to Halifax from Boston and fought for her freedom in court. She also hopes the connection between specific goods and Canada's place in the slave trade will be better known. Zellars explained that salt cod was sent from Atlantic Canada to the West Indies to feed enslaved peoples working on sugar plantations, from which refined sugar was sent back to Canada and used in rum distilleries. Stay informed The latest updates on the novel coronavirus and COVID-19 delivered to your inbox every weeknight. Sign Up I agree to the Terms and Conditions, Cookie and Privacy Policies, and CASL agreement. "I want people to make that association when they have that sip of rum," she said. "These trade connections are vitally important, and they are often overlooked when we think about slavery." Nelson said she is now working to find a physical space for the institute by the new year, she hopes and to secure more funding to draw top scholars to Halifax. She said she is keen to see work that digs into under-studied topics, including what enslaved people in Canada wore, how enslaved Africans and enslaved Indigenous peoples interacted in New France (modern-day Quebec), how Canada's climate affected the lives of enslaved people and how "African-born, African-American (and) African-Caribbean people all become what we call African-Canadian." Nelson said the centuries of slavery in Canada deserve serious intellectual and social contemplation. "Transatlantic slavery as it transpired in Canada . . . went on for 200 years, so it's absolutely not and never to be dismissed," she said. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2020. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 23:15:19|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close by Xinhua writer Sun Xiaoling LONDON, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- China is the first major economy to spring back to its feet with its exports currently being higher than ever, according to a research released Monday. "World trade rebounded to 94 percent of its 2019 average in July but not everybody is sharing in this recovery equally," said the British think tank Oxford Economics. Tamara Basic Vasiljev, senior economist in Oxford Economics, who compiled the study, said China has beaten its previous record in exports value. According to figures issued on Sept. 30 by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) of China, the sub-index measuring new export orders gained 1.7 points in September from the previous month to 50.8, above the boom-bust line of 50 for the first time this year. With the implementation of policies on stabilizing foreign trade, the export and import of the manufacturing sector saw further improvements, said NBS senior statistician Zhao Qinghe. Vasiljev said at the begining of the pandemic outbreak, most expected that the advanced countries with larger services share would be more resilient to lockdowns blow, but "this hasn't played out so far." "Tourism losses have certainly played a role, putting countries like France, Spain and Italy in precarious positions," Vasiljev added. By comparison, China's tourism witnessed a robust recovery in particular during the country's first National Day holidays starting Oct. 1 since the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic. China saw 425 million domestic tourist visits in the first four days of an eight-day national holiday, with total tourism revenue hitting 312 billion yuan (about 45.8 billion U.S. dollars), according to a report issued Sunday by China's Meituan Research Institute, a social science research agency under major e-commerce platform Meituan. Consumption at tourist attractions nationwide during the holiday is expected to rebound to around 90 percent of that in the same period last year, added the Meituan. Given renewed lockdown measures across Europe and fears of a second pandemic wave more widely, "there is little in global trade trends to suggest that the AEs (advanced economies) recovery will be swift or pervasive," noted Vasiljev. "With tourism income gone and services trade wobbling, AEs are bracing for more scarring on global markets this winter," added Vasiljev. The study came as countries, such as Britain, China, Russia and the United States, are racing against time to develop coronavirus vaccines. According to a recent report from the World Bank, China's economy is expected to grow by 2 percent in 2020, up from the 1-percentage growth projection released in June. Enditem New 6041 Transit Road, Depew, NY, Location! Business plans have to adapt to seismic changes in the market, Andol began. The decision to reduce our presence in shopping malls was entirely premised on changes in consumer spending... Centrally located in Buffalo Niagara, new freestanding site responds to communitys demand for quality 100% American Made Products With a ribbon cutting at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, October 7, 2020, Mark Andol founder and CEO of Made in America Store and General Welding & Fabricating of Elma, NY is writing a new chapter in the All-American story about the largest retailer of its kind in the U.S. Andol marked the flagship stores 10th anniversary earlier this year. Business plans have to adapt to seismic changes in the market, Andol began. The decision to reduce our presence in shopping malls was entirely premised on changes in consumer spending, Andol began. Made in America Store now has two freestanding brick & mortar locations, as well as one seasonal location in Niagara Falls, and one mall location McKinley Mall. The stores One Niagara location (2nd floor) flourished once businesses re-opened early summer. Niagara Falls boom in domestic visitors helped curtail the loss of international visitation due to border closures. This year, so many New Yorkers traveled within the state for staycations, re-discovering places closer to home and sharing them with their families, Andol continued. We have found hospitality venues such as restaurants and hotels, and attractions like ours, doing everything in their power to create a safe visitors experience in this challenging time of COVID-19." COVID-19 prompted an even greater consumer shift to on-line shopping. Our e-commerce site, http://www.madeinamericastore.com, continues to do well in this challenging environment, Andol added. But many consumers prefer to see and touch an item of clothing or product before buying. It is for these shoppers initially local shoppers but gradually including tourists from other states when tour buses return that we will maintain brick & mortar sites in Western New York." Andol noted that another byproduct of the COVID crisis is wider public recognition of how much corporate outsourcing of manufacturing overseas especially to China has short-changed Americans. People could not believe how many medical products were imported, and how competitive and costly it was to secure the lifesaving pharmaceuticals, diagnostic and treatment equipment needed to combat COVID, Andol stated. We need to bring healthcare manufacturing back to the United States. Located at 6041 Transit Road, the Depew stores hours will be Mon. Sat., 10 a.m. 8 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. 5 p.m. The new store is located just five minutes from Buffalo Airport and 30 minutes from Niagara Falls. Shoppers will enjoy a 10% discount at the Depew Store during Grand Opening Week or on-line at http://www.madeinamericastore.com with coupon code Depew2020, from Sun. Oct. 4 Sun. Oct. 11 at midnight. Overwhelmed with cadavers in a year of record violence, the Baja California Medical Examiners Office in Tijuana has been threatened with closure after environmental inspectors found a series of violations, including the improper storage of blood and other body fluids in an outdoor parking area. Mexicos environmental watchdog agency, PROFEPA, has given the office until Thursday to correct the irregularities at its two-story facility rising near downtown Tijuana on Fundadores Boulevard. Directors of the medical examiners office, an agency known as SEMEFO, said Wednesday they are expanding their facility, and have addressed the concerns of the inspectors. This includes paperwork violations, but also the improper storage of hazardous and infectious biological waste. Among the findings was that blood and body fluids resulting from autopsies were kept in a 1,300-gallon water storage tank. The tank is located on a concrete floor outside the facilities, without refrigeration, and collected only once every two or three months, when it should be a shorter period, according to a PROFEPA statement. Advertisement Inspectors found that hazardous biological infectious waste, including sharp objects such as scalpels, is not properly contained, without covers, and in containers that are at maximum capacity, the statement said. They are disposed of after several months, when it should be at least every seven days. The inspection has come as the facilitys 26-member staff, which includes 12 medical examiners, has struggled to examine some 3,000 bodies since January 1. Though more than half of the autopsies are conducted on homicide victims, medical examiners also must certify the causes of death of involuntary manslaughter victims. We have been overwhelmed by the workload, said Dr. Raul Gonzalez Vaca, who oversees medical examiners offices in all five of Baja Californias municipalities. The office in Tijuana has been especially under pressure in recent months, given the citys record homicide numbers. As of Wednesday, the Baja California Attorney Generals Office reported 1,647 homicides in the citywith 47 of those this month. This far exceeds last years record-breaking year of 910 homicides. Authorities say the majority of victims are typically involved in the street drug trade, and killed by rival dealers. Most crimes go unsolved, as many bodies go unclaimed and frightened family members are often loath to cooperate with investigations. None of us were prepared for this number of dead, Jose Maria Gonzalez, Baja Californias deputy attorney general for special investigations, said in an interview last weekend with Tijuana reporters. Conducted on Dec. 8, the environmental inspection has publicly exposed a series of deficiencies at the Tijuana morgue, a facility that has been understaffed and without proper infrastructure for the current demand. The SEMEFO has the capacity to store up to 120 corpses in refrigerated compartments, which have reportedly been failing. Gonzalez Vaca denied reports that bodies are simply set on the floor, but said that in some cases they are placed on autopsy tables or other provisional spaces. One of the challenges has been disposing of the homicide victims bodies after autopsies are completed. Some have tended to linger as detectives investigate the crimes. Gonzalez, the deputy attorney general, said that his office has worked to speed up the release of corpses, allowing them to be buried in a common grave after a 15-day period rather than the previous 45 days. Gonzalez Vaca, SEMEFOs state director, said that close to 830 bodies so far this year have gone unidentified or unclaimed, and end up in the common grave. Earlier this year, SEMEFO hired two more administrators and two additional doctors for its Tijuana office, Gonzalez Vaca said. It is expanding its storage capacity to accomodate up to 170 corpses. The state government has come up with $26,000 to address urgent needs, so that the refrigerators are operating at optimum levels, he said. Gonzalez Vaca said many of the concerns of the PROFEPA inspection involved the timeliness of the disposal of waste, a job that has been contracted out to a certified private company. From now on, the waste will be removed more often, he said. In addition, there are plans to install a sanitary apparatus to reduce odors at the facility by about 70 percent, he said. Gonzalez Vaca said that SEMEFO has met immediate demands made by the environmental inspectors, and expects to remain open. We contemplate that in February or March, we will meet all necessities, he said. Exterior of refrigeration unit at morgue (Sandra Dibble/San Diego Union Tribune ) sandra.dibble@sduniontribune.com @sandradibble President Donald Trump is reportedly fuming that his chief of staff, Mark Meadows, had issued statements to reporters that contradicted the reports issued by his team of doctors on Saturday, October 3. Trump is upset that Meadows gave the reporters an on-background message on his COVID-19 infection, which contradicted what Navy Cmdr. Dr. Sean Conley told reporters during a press conference at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center also on Saturday. The comments were at first attributed to an official who is familiar with President Trump's condition. However, it was revealed by an online video that it was Meadows who had talked to pool reporters following Dr. Conley's briefing. Meadows was also confirmed as the official by The Associated Press and The New York Times. While Dr. Conley and the rest of Trump's team of doctors painted a rosy picture of the president doing well and being in exceptionally high spirits, Meadows had said that Trump's vitals were very concerning over the last 24 hours. The next 48 hours will be very critical for his treatment. Meadows had added that they are not on a clear path to a full recovery yet. This led many to question the veracity of the update given by Trump's team of doctors, which added to the confusion on the president's real health condition. Trump is reportedly furious because Meadows' comments had put in question the credibility of the medical briefings. Afterward, President Trump tweeted that he was feeling well. He also posted a four-minute video that showed him sitting at a conference table while saying that he was not feeling well but that he was better now. He also signaled that he might be returning to the White House soon. He also said that the next few days would be the real test. Trump, however, made no mention of Meadows. The chief of staff attempted to soothe over the situation, telling Reuters that President Trump was doing well. During an interview with Fox News, he also acknowledged that the president's blood oxygen level had dropped rapidly but said that he had unbelievable courage and had an incredible improvement. It was also from Meadows that it was revealed that before Trump was transferred from the White House to the military hospital, he had a fever on the morning of Friday and that his oxygen level had rapidly dropped. In another press conference on Sunday, October 5, Dr. Conley, for his part, defended Meadows, saying his comments were just misconstrued and that they work side by side. According to Dr. Conley, what the chief of staff referred to when he mentioned the president having a high fever and a drop-in situation was that 24 hours ago, when they were checking on the president, it prompted them to decide on the transfer. Conley also explained why he did not answer questions about Trump being on oxygen on Saturday; he said it was because he wanted to reflect the team's upbeat attitude. Check these out: Trump Goes on Motorcade to Greet Supporters Outside Hospital Trump's Doctors Hold Press Conference To Give A Brief On President's COVID-19 Fight Trump's Health, Stimulus Package Are Main Focus of Markets In Coming Week A house keeping a fragile balance on a hill while a rive floods Saturday Oct.3. 2020 near La Vesubie, southern France. - SDIS 06 At least six bodies have washed up on the coast of northwestern Italy, with the authorities saying they believe they are French victims of fierce storms that hit southern France over the weekend. The six victims found in Italy - five men and a woman - are thought to have died in southern France during storms and floods, their bodies then washed out to sea and carried by currents across the border to the Italian Riviera. In France, local authorities say that four people have been confirmed dead, eight others swept away by floods are missing and a further 12 presumed missing. I fear that the death toll will unfortunately climb as we investigate on the ground, warned Charles-Ange Ginesy, head of the Alpes-Maritimes departmental council. Italian officials said the six bodies found on their shores had not yet been identified because they had been stripped of their clothing and badly mangled by the force of the floodwater and by the time they had spent at sea. The collapsed Squarciafichi walkway (Rear) is pictured by the Roya river in Ventimiglia on October 3, 2020 - FEDERICO SCOPPA/AFP They were found on beaches at Ventimiglia, an Italian border town, at Sanremo, famous for its annual music festival, and on other Riviera beaches. The bodies were found amid mountains of debris washed up on the beaches, from tree trunks to plastic and even car parts. Italian authorities are taking fingerprints from the corpses in an effort to identify them. The bodies were spotted by passersby from the coast and recovered from police, firemen and emergency workers from the Civil Protection agency. Storm Alex brought flash floods and torrential rain to parts of France and the Italian regions of Piedmont, Liguria and Val d'Aosta. In the most severely affected areas, around 2ft of rain fell within 24 hours. In France, almost 1,000 firefighters were this weekend drafted into the Alpes-Maritimes region to search for the missing and re-establish communications. Up to 500mm of rain fell in less than 10 hours, a volume not seen since records began, according to French prime minister Jean Castex, who inspected the damage by helicopter on Saturday. Story continues President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit the area later this week. Eric Ciotti, head of the Provence-Alpes-Cote dAzur region, said the floods had inflicted damage on local homes and infrastructure that will cost an estimated billion euros to repair. Ten trucks of food aid are being dispatched to the area from Nice, whose deputy mayor Philippe Pradal said: Theres nothing left. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is unlikely to get a 'warm welcome' from the White House if Joe Biden wins the presidential election because of lingering resentment over his remarks about Barack Obama, according to Britain's former ambassador to Washington. Lord Darroch said there was still some 'resentment and unhappiness' over comments Mr Johnson made while mayor of London and in newspaper columns about the former US president. He also said Mr Johnson would find it easier to secure a trade deal with Donald Trump in the White House than Mr Biden. Lord Darroch, 66, who was speaking at an event at the Cheltenham Literature Festival, was asked who the Prime Minister would prefer to win the presidential election next month. 'I think they are rather torn,' he replied. 'I hesitate to say this, but there will be some Obama people in a Biden administration and they remember some of the things that the current Prime Minister said about Obama whether as a newspaper columnist or whether it was mayor of London,' Lord Darroch said. Lord Kim Darroch (pictured), Britain's former ambassador to Washington, said PM Boris Johnson would struggle to strike a trade deal with Joe Biden if he is elected President Boris Johnson (pictured left) will reportedly struggle to strike a trade deal with the US if Joe Birden (pictured right) is elected, as the Presidential hopeful remembers comments made by the PM in a 2016 newspaper column 'I promise you there is still some resentment and unhappiness over that. 'I'm not sure there will be, you know, quite the warm, welcoming embrace from Biden for Boris Johnson Prime Minister, as it would be from Donald Trump for Boris Johnson Prime Minister. 'I think there is some question marks if Biden wins.' In 2016 while mayor of London, Mr Johnson wrote a newspaper column in which he said the removal of a bust of Churchill from Mr Obama's office was seen by some as a sign of an 'ancestral dislike of the British Empire' and his 'part-Kenyan' ancestry. Lord Darroch said he believed a Biden administration would not prioritise a free trade deal with the UK. 'If Biden wins then life becomes to an extent more normal and Nato gets a boost from having a more congenial president of the White House and just international relations become calmer and much more predictable,' he said. Lord Darroch's leaked memos scandal Lord Darroch was appointed Britain's ambassador to Washington in 2016. But he resigned from his role three years later after emails were leaked in which he made disparaging remarks about the President Donald Trump. In secret cables and briefing notes, he called the Trump administration 'clumsy and inept', and described the President as insecure and incompetent. He warned that the White House was uniquely dysfunctional and that the Presidents career could end in disgrace. The series of explosive memos by Lord Darroch, then Sir Kim Darroch, was revealed in July last year by the Mail on Sunday. The barbed comments triggering President Trump to retort that he was a 'pompous fool'. After the leak, Mr Johnson, then running for the Conservative leadership, repeatedly refused to say that he would keep him in post during a TV debate. It was a stance that drew criticism from Foreign Office minister Alan Duncan and others and Lord Darroch said contributed to his post becoming untenable. He quit in July 2019 saying 'speculation' over his future made it 'impossible for him to continue'. Advertisement 'But I don't think that for Joe Biden's administration a free trade deal with the UK is going to be the top priority. 'I think maybe re-joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership or maybe an EU-US deal might be priorities. 'I think the free trade deal is a lot more deliverable a lot more quickly, though with some big and painful concessions by us if Trump wins.' Lord Darroch was appointed ambassador in 2016 and resigned from his role in 2019 after emails were leaked in which he called the Trump administration 'clumsy and inept'. This week he speculated that Trump's admission to hospital with coronavirus could cost him re-election as it will remind American voters of how badly he has managed the pandemic. Mr Trump, 74, announced that he and first lady Melania had tested positive for Covid overnight on Thursday and was moved to Walter Reed Military Medical Centre on Friday. He said: 'I think it's probably just in sort of cold calculating terms of the election, it's probably a very bad thing for the president. 'One because it keeps the virus - because he's caught it - on the front pages and the lead story for at least another couple of weeks and maybe longer if that's how long it takes to recover. 'He doesn't want the narrative to be about coronavirus because the polls will tell you most Americans think he has not handled it well.' Lord Darroch added that Mr Trump has recovered politically from other previous setbacks, including the Access Hollywood scandal in which a tape was published weeks before the 2016 election of him talking about assaulting women. 'If he springs from his hospital bed like Superman in about five or six days' time and is back on the campaign trail that will remind people of his terminator-like indestructibility and that could play for him but I'd be very surprised if that's actually what happens,' he said. 'I think it's more likely that you will not see any more debates and you wouldn't see very much of President Trump before election day.' Lord Darroch's comments came when he was speaking at the Cheltenham Literature Festival to promote his new book Collateral Damage: Britain, America, And Europe In The Age of Trump. It is amazing how India's high economic growth in the past few decades has brought in a far higher unemployment rate (it touched 45-year-high in 2017-18), disappearance of good old full-time (permanent) decent jobs. Their place has been taken over by casual, contract and gig jobs which are low paying and without adequate protections. India's high growth is also marked by a sharp rise in inequality of income and wealth in which those at the bottom of economic pyramid rapidly lost their share in the economy. (For more read " Unravelling GDP growth I: More growth is producing more inequality and misery " and " Coronavirus Lockdown XII: Why the wealthy should be taxed more "). The economic lockdown has added to their precarity as millions lost their jobs and other sources of livelihood. After the new labour reforms were notified recently, some experts from the India Inc. wryly commented that the social benefits to workers were "deceptive" and these reforms would eventually create "a permanent cadre of insecure and temporary employees". The labour reforms expand social security marginally while providing more flexibility to hire on contract and also fire. Such flexibility has in the past worked to the advantage of private businesses at the cost of workers, as several economic studies have found. (For more read " Rebooting Economy 31: Will new labour codes protect more workers or less? " & " Rebooting Economy 32: Wage code leaves millions of workers out in cold ") Instead of addressing the precarity of workers, the central government is adding to it by re-hiring more and more retired employees on contract. Centre's re-hiring spree of retired employees on contract The Centre is not only promoting contract employment (temporary) in private sector through new labour reforms, which have expanded the scope of its use and added Fixed Term Employment, but is doing so in its own domain. On August 13, 2020, the finance ministry issued an office memorandum (OM) to fix remunerations for contract appointments of retired central government employees as consultants (highly skilled and domain experts) beyond the age of superannuation (60 years). Such hiring would be through "nomination" or "on open market basis". In the case of nomination, the re-employment "shall ordinarily be for an initial period not exceeding one year" but in case of open market basis, "shall not ordinarily go beyond 5 years". For the nominated re-employment, it proposed a "fixed monthly amount" as salary after deducting the basic pension but without scope for increment or Dearness Allowance (DA). For open market-based re-employment, there would be no such restrictions. The OM reveals that though such re-employment was allowed by an order of 1986, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) had disallowed it beyond the age of superannuation (60 years) in 2002, which it seeks to overturn. Now the retired government employees can be hired for up to 5 years beyond the age of superannuation. In 2017, the DoPT issued a similar OM for re-employment of retired government officials who had retired before 55 years of age and included Defence Force personnel/officers. Such practices are disquietening for at least two reasons. First, the central government has kept a large number of vacancies unfilled as a matter of routine even in the face of high unemployment earlier and now when the lockdown has rendered millions jobless. Also Read: Rebooting Economy XXX: Rural India in far deeper crisis than what govt data claims 6.84 lakh vacancies in central government when millions are jobless On March 5, 2020, the central government told Rajya Sabha that it had 6.84 lakh central government jobs/posts (regular civilian posts) vacant as on March 1, 2018. That was 18% of the total sanctioned posts of 38 lakh. About 84% of the vacancies were in Group C: 19,896 in Group A, 29,333 in Group B (Gazetted), 60,305 in Group (Non-Gazetted) and 5.74 lakh in Group C. The numbers were the same as the Rajya Sabha was told on November 21, 2019. The overwhelmingly high percentage of vacancies in Group C (84% of total) indicates the government's apathy towards those at the bottom of the economic pyramid. The Rajya Sabha has been repeatedly told that the UPSC, SSC and Railway Recruitment Board had made "recommendations" to recruit 1.35 lakh (19.7% of vacancies) during 2019-20. There is no sign of actual hiring until now. The monsoon session of Parliament (September 2020) revealed information on vacancies in central universities and government schools: 42 central universities had 6,210 vacancies in teaching and 12,437 in non-teaching posts as on September 1, 2020; vacancies of teachers in government schools stood at 1.06 million or 17% of the total sanctioned strength (6.18 million) during the 2020-21 academic sessions. Not filling vacancies is not new The 7thcentral Pay Commission report of 2015 had revealed that the vacancies in central government posts (regular civilian) stood at 5.51 lakh in 2006, 6.61 lakh in 2010 and 7.47 lakh in 2014. It also said that the central government's sanctioned posts were on a decline since 1994 (post-liberalisation era): From 41.76 lakh in 1994 to 40.49 lakh in 2014. The Rajya Sabha response on March 5, 2020, revealed that these had fallen further to 38 lakh in 2018. In the meantime, a new finance ministry circular of September 4, 2020, caused further disquiet by asking all central government ministries and departments to shed posts of consultants, cut costs, and also put "a ban on new posts, except with the approval of the Department of Expenditure". Later the ministry clarified that this didn't amount to a ban on filling vacant posts. Also Read: Economy XXIX: Exposing farmers to unregulated market is more likely to harm them Assurances regarding recruitments make little sense or difference when millions don't have jobs, either because the lockdown forced millions out of it or the earlier years of high growth which didn't produce proportionate jobs. While the UPA era (2004-14) was marked by job-less growth, the NDA II era (since 2014) has been marked by job-loss growth - first the economic misadventures like the demonetisation and GST which caused a massive job loss and then the sudden, untimely and unplanned economic lockdown when virus count was too low (about 650). In the meanwhile, the central government has admitted to gross apathy and abdication of its duty by telling the Parliament (during the monsoon session of September 2020) that it had no data on migrants' job loss or their deaths while walking home during the lockdown or how many MSMEs and start-ups shut shop due to its unwarranted lockdown on March 25. Private business information portal CMIE reported on September 7, 2020, that 21 million "salaried" (regular and formal sector) jobs were lost due to the lockdown. The regular wage/salaried group of workers are the most privileged ones in terms of job and social security but constituted 23.8% of the total workforce during 2018-19, as per the PLFS of 2018-19. The second disquietening aspect of the central government's re-hiring of retired officials on contract is the rapid growth of temporary (contract and casual) workers in the government sector. Also Read: Rebooting Economy XXVIII: Is India poised for agriculture-led economic turnaround? 43% government jobs were temporary (casual and contract jobs) in 2013 The central government has stopped publishing data on organised sector workers after 2012, reflecting a general apathy to the state of employment. As a result, successive Economic Surveys, right up to the 2017-18 one released in 2019 carries the same old set of data on organised sector employment data up to 2012. The Economic Survey of 2019-20, released in January 2020, discontinued publishing even that. Those data never revealed how many in the organised sector (government or private) were temporary - casual or on contract. There is no such data with the government. Here is a private assessment, by the Indian Staffing Federation (ISF), the apex body representing the staffing industry, published in 2014. It traces temporary workers in central government, state governments, PSUs, and local bodies. Since no direct data is available, the ISF collected data from government functionaries and secondary government databases like various surveys (ASI and NSSO) and various government reports to estimate the size of temporary workers, which it defined as casual and short-term contract workers (less than 3 years) with or without written contracts. It counted all contracts of 3 years or more as "permanent". It found that the overall hiring in the government sector is on a decline and "temporisation" is increasing. Also Read: Rebooting Economy XXVII: Fiscal mismanagement threatens India's economic recovery Some of its revelations were shocking. 43% or 12.3 million government sector workers were temporary by the end of 2013. 2/3rd of the incremental formal workforce was temporary with 80% of them in casual jobs. Professionals and high-skilled workers form a substantial chunk of casual and short-term contract employment (showed in the extract reproduced below). At least 6.9 million (56%) workers worked in government programmes like ICDS, NRHM, NRLM ("honorary" workers like Anganwadi Workers, Anganwadi Helpers and ASHA workers who receive "honorarium", not salary or wage.) The following extract from this report shows distribution of casual and fixed short term contract (FSTCs) of less than 3 years. As the extract shows, high-skilled professionals and teachers constitute a significant part of the temporary appointments in government - casual and short-term contract. Architects, engineers, teachers in schools and higher education institutions are some of them. Also Read: Rebooting Economy XXVIII: Is India poised for agriculture-led economic turnaround? In a country with more than 50% population or 659 million people living below the World Bank poverty line for a low-middle income country ($3.2 of per capita per day living expense) even before the pandemic struck and millions more joining them after losing their jobs to the lockdown, the central government's approach to employment is shocking to say the least. Part II of the article will look at more data on the subject and academic studies showing how growth in temporary/informal employment hurts both workers and economy. Also Read: Rebooting Economy XXVI: Derailment of economy is not 'Act of God', it is 'Art of Misdirection' Philadelphia Police look for evidence as they investigate a double shooting that occurred at 22nd and Jackson streets shortly before 7 pm on Sunday. Read more Update, Oct. 4: Philadelphia Police said another person, a 19-year-old man, was fatally shot in Kingsessing shortly after midnight Tuesday, bringing the number of people killed overnight to six. Commissioner Danielle Outlaw addressed the violence at a news conference Tuesday morning. Five people were killed in shootings in Philadelphia on Monday, police said, bringing the citys annual total of homicides to its highest level since 2007. Two people were shot and killed in West Oak Lane around 6:30 p.m. Monday. A man in his early 20s was shot in the back of the head and transported to Einstein, where he was pronounced dead at 7:04 p.m. A 21-year-old man was killed in a Lowes parking lot at a South Philadelphia shopping center on Monday afternoon after being shot nine times, before being pronounced dead at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital at 1:20 p.m. And a 22-year-old man was killed in a shooting in the citys Castor section just after 5 p.m. on the 1300 block of Fanshawe Street. The West Oak Lane victims, a 48-year-old woman and a 29-year-old man, were pronounced dead at the scene. The woman was shot once in the head and the man was shot multiple times in the body. The weapon was recovered in the basement, and no arrest was made. As of Sunday, 355 people have been killed by gun violence in Philadelphia, up 38% when compared to last years numbers. As of late September, 1,569 people had been shot in the city this year, more than the annual total for any year since 2007, when the city recorded 1,597 victims. Police Commissioner Danielle Outlaw decried the violence. Today, our city reached a grim milestone she said. With almost three months remaining in the year and the insidious gun violence we continue to witness, today has exceeded the number of murders our City faced during the entirety of 2019. Just one murder is too many, and we must continue to work together within the community and with our City, State and Federal partners in order for lasting progress to be made. Outlaw plans to hold a news conference Tuesday morning to address the increase in gun violence. Mayor Jim Kenney said he was heartbroken by the gun violence in Philadelphia this year. He said the administration is scaling up efforts to address the issue, using evidence-based strategies that support the Philadelphia Roadmap to Safer Communities, the citys comprehensive plan to reduce gun violence rates. Hundreds of lives have been cut tragically short, families torn apart, and communities traumatized, Kenney said. We continue to battle the long-running public health crisis of gun violence, which we are fighting on top of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic crisis. The combination makes for a challenging and unprecedented time in our city. The double homicide in West Oak Lane was the latest in a spate of violence. Over the weekend, there were 12 shootings, two of them fatal. Omar Wade, 15, was killed Sunday in a double shooting in the Girard Park area of South Philadelphia near 22nd and Jackson Streets. He was shot in the head and the left thigh, police said. The other person who was shot, an 18-year-old man, is hospitalized in critical condition as of Monday morning at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center. Police said they had not made any arrests or identified a motive or possible offender and are investigating the shooting as a homicide. As homicides and shootings rise, more and more children are becoming victims of the violence. As of August, people under the age of 18 have accounted for nearly 1 in 10 of Philadelphias shooting victims this year, more than any other year since at least 2015. Staff photographer Elizabeth Robertson contributed to this article. Kharagpur (WB), Oct 5: West Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh on Monday alleged that the law and order situation in the state is worsening and gradually it is becoming a Mafia-ruled state like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. In reply, the Trinamool Congress said it is good that he accepted that Mafia-raj existed in those two states where the BJP is in power. West Bengal is slipping into a Mafia-raj like situation like in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The way a councillor was shot dead in front of a police station by using a stengun is shameful," Ghosh said while talking to the media on the killing of BJP leader Manish Shukla at Titagarg in North 24 Parganas district. Shukla, a councillor of Titagarh Municipality, was shot dead on Sunday by two bike-borne assailants. The law and order situation of Bengal is worsening with each passing day. The police are hand in glove in the conspiracy to kill a mass leader like Shukla," Ghosh claimed. Ghosh wondered whether free and fair polls would be possible in the state if such an anarchic situation continues. Assembly election in the state is due next year. More than 120 BJP workers have been killed in the state in the last few years," he said. The TMC leadership mocked Ghosh for his comments. It is good that he has accepted that Mafia raj exists in BJP-ruled UP and Bihar. We are happy that at least for once, he has spoken the truth," senior TMC leader and minister Firhad Hakim said. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor 03.10.2020 LISTEN Enterprising Ghanaian Gospel musician, Monica Addai has entreated Gospel musicians in the country to seek spiritual guidance from God when composing songs. She pointed out the need for Gospel musicians to strive to invite the Holy Spirit in their lives and daily activities. Speaking in an interview with www.newshuntermag.com , the Sunyani-based Gospel musician indicated that the Holy Spirit is the guide and counsellor for all Christians, so it is imperative for those singing about the Gospel to ask the Holy Spirit to take over them. Monica admitted that the majority of songs being released by Gospel musicians currently are not spiritually filled by the Holy Spirit. She observed some of these Gospel musicians are not relying on God, they have failed to seek counsel from Godand do whatever they like because of fame. According to her, these musicians refuse to pray and wait upon the Almighty God to guide them. Monica Addai reiterated that they rely on their own strengthsthinking that they are singing for God, but they lack spiritual backingwhich makes it difficult for them to achieve the ultimate goal of winning souls for God. In the interim, Monica Addai is gearing up towards the release of her new song titled Hu Me Mmobo (Have Mercy). Connect with her on social media through Monica Addai Ministry. D onald Trumps drive-by parade for supporters gathered outside the hospital where he is being treated for coronavirus has been rebuked as insanity by a top doctor. The US president staged the photo-op outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland on Saturday, moments after promising crowds a surprise on Twitter. Wearing a mask and surrounded by an extensive security detail - believed to be Secret Service agents - he waved to cheering fans from an armoured SUV motorcade - despite his doctor revealing he was on steroids for fluctuating oxygen levels. It came as confusion reigned over the presidents condition, with public-facing White House doctors conflicting with sources by suggesting he could be discharged on Monday. A Walter Reed physician and the chief of disaster medicine at George Washington University, led a flood of criticism, with the president just three days into his Covid-19 infection. Crowds of supporters cheered as the armoured motorcade staged a drive-by (REUTERS) / Reuters "That presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack," Dr James Phillips said. "The risk of COVID-19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play. "Every single person in the vehicle during that completely unnecessary presidential 'drive-by' just now has to be quarantined for 14 days. They might get sick. They may die. For political theater. Commanded by Trump to put their lives at risk for theater. This is insanity." Jonathan Reiner, professor of medicine and surgery at George Washington University, tweeted: "By taking a joy ride outside Walter Reed the president is placing his Secret Service detail at grave risk. "In the hospital when we go into close contact with a Covid patient we dress in full PPE: Gown, gloves, N95, eye protection, hat. This is the height of irresponsibility. "His doctors should have said no. They need to stand up for what is right. This is wrong." Piers Morgan also weighed in, branding the drive-by "reprehensible" and "reckless". The Good Morning Britain host raged: "Whats your reaction now you've had it yourself and learnt just how serious it is? You go out and you put your Secret Service lives at risk. "People who risk their lives for you every minute of every day. You decide to get into a car with a bloke who's got a mask on who actually has to do that because the president told him." He added: "He thinks it's a reality show. The recklessness of this. Its utterly ridiculous." White House spokesman Judd Deere said the drive had been cleared by the medical team as safe and that appropriate precautions were taken including PPE. In his third video update since being diagnosed, Mr Trump said battling Covid19 has been a very interesting journey. Donald Trump has been working from a hospital suite / Tia Dufour / White House via CNP / SplashNews.com He said: I learned a lot about Covid. I learned it by really going to school. This is the real school. This isnt the lets read the books school. And I get it, and I understand it. And its a very interesting thing. Dr Sean Conley, the presidents physician, said Mr Trump had been on supplemental oxygen on Friday after his blood oxygen level plummeted twice. The doctor added a new layer of confusion by suggesting he could be discharged and allowed to continue treatment at the White House on Monday, adding the president has continued to improve. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who claimed she has been kept in the dark on the presidents condition, demanded honesty. "We need to have trust that what they're telling us about the president's condition is real, the Democrat told CBS. Mrs Pelosi said the information doctors are giving the public has to be approved by the president", adding: "That's not very scientific". After the drive-by, reporters claimed a White House official told them First Lady Melania Trump would not leave her residence to visit her husband because: That would expose the agents who would drive her there and the medical staff who would walk her up to him. The US election campaign was thrown into turmoil by the presidents diagnosis, with less than four weeks to go until polling day. The Red Sox experienced the largest ratings drop in MLB during 2020. Overall, the league saw a 11% decline in ratings compared with a 4.2% increase in viewership. The biggest ratings drop was by the Boston Red Sox on NESN (a 58% decline2.14, compared with 5.15 in 2019), Maury Brown of Forbes.com reported. Brown also reported Red Sox viewership dropped 54%. The Red Sox decided to slash payroll in 2020 to reset their luxury tax penalties. And so they traded superstar Mookie Betts and starting pitcher David Price to the Dodgers on Feb. 10. That trade slashed $43 million off their payroll and dropped them approximately $18 million below the Competitive Balance Tax base threshold. Both ace Chris Sale (Tommy John surgery) and No. 2 starter Eduardo Rodriguez (myocarditis, resulting from COVID-19) missed the entire 2020 season. Boston put an uncompetitive product on the field during the shortened 60-game season. The Red Sox finished in last place in the AL East, 16 games behind the first-place Tampa Bay Rays. Bostons .400 winning percentage (24-36) was their 12th worst winning percentage in franchise history dating back to 1901. The Red Sox also changed start times to 7:30 p.m. to maximize viewership and listenership at home" but that clearly didnt work. Start times will return to normal in 2021. Team president Sam Kennedy recently said COVID-19 had a devastating impact on Red Soxs revenues in 2020. In May, the Red Sox cut the salaries of all team employees earning $50,000 or more. Team president Sam Kennedy said June 24 that pay cuts will remain in effect through the end of the 2020 calendar year despite MLB restarting its season and playing a 60-game schedule. In mid-September, the team cut roughly 10% of full-time staffers, leaving more than 40 employees without jobs. The Red Sox also laid off nine employees from scouting and player development staffs in August. Will it (COVID-19) have an impact on our budget? Yes, of course it will because of the devastating impact it has had on our revenues this year, Kennedy said last last Tuesday. Obviously, next year is uncertain. That said, I dont know what the outlook for 2021 is yet with respect to the virus. As that becomes clear, well be able to act in real time and make decisions. Related Content Boston Red Sox payroll 2021: Chaim Bloom will enter MLB free agency a projected $36M below $210M base threshold Boston Red Sox will be aggressive in search for pitching this winter, Chaim Bloom says: I dont think Im breaking news by saying that Will Boston Red Sox host fans and increase ticket prices at Fenway Park in 2021? Club had September plan for about 7K capacity Will COVID impact Boston Red Sox budget for 2021? Of course it will, says team president Sam Kennedy Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. AUSTIN, Texas Top aides of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton have asked federal law enforcement authorities to investigate allegations of improper influence, abuse of office, bribery and other potential crimes against the states top lawyer. In a one-page letter to the state agencys director of human resources, obtained Saturday by the Austin American-Statesman, part of the USA TODAY Network, and KVUE-TV, seven executives in the upper tiers of the office said they are seeking the investigation into Paxton in his official capacity as the current Attorney General of Texas. The Thursday letter said that each has knowledge of facts relevant to these potential offenses and has provided statements concerning those facts to the appropriate law enforcement. Paxton, a 57-year-old Republican, was elected in 2014. His office said in a statement Saturday evening: The complaint filed against Attorney General Paxton was done to impede an ongoing investigation into criminal wrongdoing by public officials including employees of this office. Making false claims is a very serious matter and we plan to investigate this to the fullest extent of the law. The statement did not elaborate. The letter to human resources was signed by Paxtons first assistant, Jeff Mateer, who resigned Friday, as well as Mateers deputy and deputy attorneys general overseeing divisions that include criminal investigations, civil litigation, administration and policy. We have a good faith belief that the attorney general is violating federal and/or state law including prohibitions related to improper influence, abuse of office, bribery and other potential criminal offenses, the letter states. Related: Texas officer named in fatal shooting has resigned Was Trump ever on oxygen? Health, security experts say America needs 'total honesty' on president's condition Their decision to report possible illegal activity involving their employer represents a stunning development in an agency that prizes loyalty, particularly from within Paxtons inner circle. It places a renewed spotlight on Paxton, who is already under indictment for alleged securities fraud. Story continues The complaint concluded by saying that they notified Paxton in a text message Thursday that they had reported the alleged violations to law enforcement. The whistleblowers, who notified human resources to protect their jobs, offered no other details about the allegations and do not describe what they believe Paxton did that was illegal. Efforts to reach them were unsuccessful Saturday. Mateers inclusion in the complaint letter, and his departure as Paxtons second in command, was particularly significant, coming from a political ally who shared a conservative Christian perspective on many social and legal issues. Chris Christie: Former New Jersey governor checks into hospital after testing positive for COVID-19 Paxton has past indictments of which he claims innocence When President Donald Trump tapped Mateer to become a federal judge in 2017, Paxton lauded him as a principled leader a man of character who has done an outstanding job for the State of Texas. Mateers nomination was later withdrawn after revelations of anti-LGBT remarks, including calling transgender children part of Satans plan. Mateer has told colleagues that he is leaving the government to rejoin a Plano-based conservative nonprofit law firm helping to nominate judges to federal courts, the Dallas Morning News reported Friday. Mateer worked for the First Liberty Institute prior to joining Paxtons office. Paxton has been operating under a separate legal cloud since the summer of 2015, when he was indicted on three felony counts related to private business deals in 2011 and 2012. Seven months after being sworn in for his first four-year term as attorney general, Paxton was arrested, booked into Collin County Jail and quickly released on a no-money bond. He has steadfastly proclaimed his innocence and dismissed the charges as a political attack from those who oppose his strong conservative principles. Dont believe the attacks on me, Paxton said in a 2016 video released by his campaign. They arent true, and I am going to fight them. The most serious charge, two counts of securities fraud, was related to Paxtons efforts to solicit investors in Servergy Inc. without revealing that the McKinney tech company was paying him for the work. The first-degree felonies carry a maximum of 99 years in prison. He also was charged with failing to register with state securities regulators while conducting other investment business, a third-degree felony with a maximum 10-year sentence. Paxton has aggressively fought the charges, and the criminal case has been delayed by numerous appeals and legal wrangling from defense lawyers and prosecutors. There still is no trial date set. Paxton also was accused of fraud related to the Servergy venture in a civil complaint by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in 2016. A federal judge, however, dismissed the complaint, ruling that federal securities law didnt require Paxton to tell potential investors about his deal with Servergy. Still, the SEC filing provided most of the public details about Paxtons involvement with Servergy. According to the SEC, Servergy paid Paxton with 100,000 shares of the companys stock, worth $1 a share, for his work in lining up $840,000 in investments a sum that represented 32% of all Servergy investments in 2011. Two of those investors were mentioned in the Collin County indictments state Rep. Byron Cook, R-Corsicana, who has since left office, and Florida businessman Joel Hochberg, both of whom belonged to an investment club that included Paxton. Responding to the criminal charges resulting from his Servergy involvement, Paxton has argued that his actions were not illegal, and he has accused prosecutors of stretching the definition of fraud beyond its legal meaning. Paxton also blamed his legal trouble on political opponents, particularly moderate Republicans in Collin County and the Legislature. Running for reelection in 2018 against a Democratic opponent who made the indictments a centerpiece of the campaign, Paxton was given a second term with 50.6% of the vote. But even as Republicans swept, yet again, every statewide office, Paxtons 3.6-point victory over Democrat Justin Nelson was the closest statewide race on the ballot. Follow reporters Tony Plohetski (@tplohetski) and Chuck Lindell (@chucklindell) on Twitter. 'Starting to feel good': Trump releases new video from Walter Reed amid COVID battle We're paying a lot of attention to Trump's case: But the US just recorded the most daily COVID-19 infections in nearly 2 months This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Ken Paxton: Texas AG named in federal investigation request Syracuse, N.Y. Onondaga County Republicans today elected a new leader for the first time in a decade. Benedicte Doran, 51, of Jamesville, takes over as chair of the county GOP committee from Tom Dadey, who had held the post since 2010. Doran, who ran unopposed, was elected during the county committees meeting today in Syracuse. The change of leaders comes just one month before a critical election. Doran, a longtime behind-the-scenes political operative, said her election as party chair wont make a big change in how she spends her days between now and Election Day. "Im always helping (candidates), so I dont think it is going to be a big change for me personally. It will be a title change,'' Doran said. Doran plans to continue working as a political director for John Katkos congressional campaign and as a paid fund-raiser for Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahons political committee. And she will continue her unpaid work for Republican candidates in state and local races. "I dont think Im going to be doing anything different with my day on Monday or Tuesday or any day between now and the election. Its stuff that I would already be doing,'' she said. Doran said she will not draw a salary as GOP chair, as Dadey did. Instead, she plans to hire a paid executive director. Doran said she plans to hire Onondaga County Legislator Deb Cody, R-Salina, as the Republican committees executive director. Doran and Cody worked together in the office of former state Sen. John DeFrancisco, where Doran was communications director from 2008 to 2013. Doran said she plans to bring Cody on as director early in 2021 but has yet to work out the details. "We work well together,'' Doran said. Elected chairman in 2010, Dadey announced in June that he would step down and make way for new leadership. "Ten years is long enough,'' he said. Dadey was paid about $48,000 by the party for the year ending July 2020, according to financial disclosures filed by the county GOPs housekeeping account. Doran takes over during a high-stakes election year in which some Republicans, including former U.S. Rep. James Walsh, have crossed party lines to endorse Democrat Joe Biden over President Trump, the Republican. Doran said she, like Dadey before her, supports Trump. "I support everything that (Trump) is doing,'' Doran said. He may not have the greatest personality, but he gets things done. And I like what hes getting done. News tips? Contact reporter Tim Knauss of syracuse.com/The Post-Standard: email | Twitter | | 315-470-3023 Roberts, now known as Giuffre, lives in an area of Australia which officially celebrates the Queen's birthday (April 21) on the first Monday of October Giuffre shared photo of her 17-year-old self with Andrew and Ghislaine Maxwell She also shared link to Andrew's Newsnight interview in her 'gift' to Her Majesty Andrew denies Giuffre's claims they had sex in Maxwell's London house in 2001 Virginia Roberts has wished the Queen a 'Happy Birthday' by sharing the infamous photo of Prince Andrew with his arm around her waist. Roberts, now known as Giuffre, lives in an area of Australia which officially celebrates Her Majesty's birthday on either the last week of September or the first week of October. ADVERTISEMENT Jeffrey Epstein's alleged madam Ghislaine Maxwell stands behind Prince Andrew and the 17-year-old Giuffre in the photo taken at the British socialite's London townhouse. Giuffre tweeted: 'Happy Birthday Queen Elizabeth Here's my gift to you- just a memorable moment of your son,' linking to Prince Andrew's Newsnight interview during which he vehemently denied Giuffre's claims that he had sex with her. Virginia Roberts, then 17, with Prince Andrew and Ghislaine Maxwell at the British socialite's London townhouse in 2001 Roberts, now known as Giuffre, lives in an area of Australia which officially celebrates Her Majesty's birthday on either the last week of September or the first week of October In an interview with the BBC's Emily Maitlis last year, Prince Andrew denied Giuffre's claims that they had sex in Maxwell's London townhouse in 2001 Giuffre's lawyers are involved in the case against Maxwell, who is awaiting trial on charges of helping Epstein to recruit and abuse underage girls. The lawyers have been arguing for the release of Maxwell's deposition in a lawsuit against Giuffre in 2016. Maxwell's lawyers argue that her deposition contained 'intimate, sensitive, and personal information' and that its release would wreck her chances of a fair trial. The British socialite, who denies the claims against her, in August pleaded with judges not to 'let the cat out of the bag' by unsealing the documents. Giuffre's lawyers responded by saying that other high-profile suspects such as al-Qaeda terrorists and cult leader Charles Manson had been given fair trials. Quoting from a ruling in the Manson case which ended with the killer being sentenced to life in prison in 1972, Giuffre's lawyers said that massive pre-trial publicity 'does not automatically translate into prejudice'. Epstein and his ex-girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell, who denies federal charges of helping him to recruit and abuse underage girls Click here to resize this module Maxwell's trial is scheduled for next July. She was arrested in New Hampshire on July 2 and is being held in a Brooklyn jail after a judge deemed she was a flight risk. A grand jury returned a sealed, six-count indictment against Maxwell on June 29, almost a year after Epstein was charged. ADVERTISEMENT It alleges that Maxwell groomed three unnamed girls, all under the age of 18, in London, New York, Florida and New Mexico between 1994 and 1997. She is accused of having befriended them by taking them to the movies or on shopping sprees and 'normalised' abusive behaviour by getting undressed in front of them. Maxwell's lawyers have tried to distance their client from Epstein, saying she'd had no contact with him for more than a decade. Ghislaine Maxwell (pictured in a court sketch during a July 14 hearing) is battling to block the release of documents from her 2016 lawsuit against Virginia Roberts Giuffre Epstein killed himself at age 66 in August 2019 at a federal jail in Manhattan while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. He had previously pleaded guilty in 2008 to a Florida state prostitution charge, and completed a 13-month jail sentence now widely considered too lenient. Before Epstein's conviction, he and Maxwell had a network of powerful friends including Prince Andrew, Donald Trump and Bill Clinton. Shares of IT companies were in the spotlight today after TCS said it would consider buying back shares later this week. TCS shares surged over 5.5% to a new high of 2,666 while Infosys shares rose 4% to 1,054, also a new high. TCS board will meet on October 7 to consider a proposal for buyback of equity shares of the company. No other details of the buyback plan were disclosed. The board is also slated to consider its financial results for the September quarter and declaration of a second interim dividend to the equity shareholders at that meeting. In 2018, the Mumbai-based company had undertaken a share buyback programme worth up to 16,000 crore. The buyback, at 2,100 per equity share, had entailed up to 7.61 crore shares. Many analysts remain positive on IT stocks. "Q2FY21 will mark the beginning of robust QoQ revenue growth of 3-6% (in USD) for large caps aided by 135-185bps cross currency tailwinds. TCS, Infosys, HCL Tech, Wipro and Tech Mahindra are estimated to report 5.0%, 5.4%, 6.3%, 3.0% and 3.7% growth, respectively QoQ; we estimate EBIT margin expansion of 200bps, 20bps, 80bps, 40bps and 250bps, respectively, QoQ," domestic brokerage Edelweiss said in a note. "We expect robust commentaries, record deal wins and guidance upgrades by all companies. Revenue growth will be led by strong spurt across all industries, verticals and geographies. We believe this is the beginning of guidance upgrades by companies and will be followed by consensus upgrades for several quarters to come," it said. Edelweiss likes Infosys, HCL Tech, TCS, Tech Mahindra, Mindtree, LTI, LTTS, Eclerx, Persistent and Cyient in this space. Last month, IT services major HCL Tech said that it expects Q2 revenue and operating margin to be meaningfully better" than the previous forecast. The Noida-based company expects its revenue growth in constant currency terms to exceed 3.5% quarter-on-quarter (q-o-q) for the July-September 2020 period. In July, the company had forecasted its revenue to increase q-o-q by an average of 1.5-2.5% in constant currency for the next three quarters. We have seen strong execution during the quarter to date, and continue to execute to the plan this month," HCL Technologies said. Subscribe to Mint Newsletters * Enter a valid email * Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. Never miss a story! Stay connected and informed with Mint. Download our App Now!! Fifteen years ago, New Orleans faced catastrophe. Hurricane Katrina barreled into the city. More than a thousand people died, and the city, sitting in ruins, faced $150 billion in damage. Today, we are staring down a different crisis in COVID-19, but some of the lessonsespecially for schoolsare the same. Katrina shut down school buildings in the city for monthsin other cases, years. Most students received no schooling at all for some weeks. Children were forced to leave their friends and teachers for new school settings. Older students faced an uncertain future with few jobs. Many families lost their homes to the ensuing economic calamity. Most people in the city knew someone who died. Katrina was traumatic. The storm also forced New Orleans schools to change. State and local leaders had to persuade federal officials to provide financial support, attract people back to the city, and successfully serve those who came so they would stay. One of the essential steps was allowing families to choose any school they wished, of those that reopened. Leaders had to give parents choices because so few buildings could be easily made functional in the storms aftermath, and families returned in unpredictable patterns. There was no practical way, at first, to go back to neighborhood-assigned schools. This part of the story is important because a policy requiring school choice had long been a possibility. The policy just didnt have enough public support to be enacted. But once the choice system was forced into place, the idea became popular. Katrina created a new status quo. Crises force us into changes we might not have made otherwiseand some of this can be beneficial." Other aspects of the school system changed, not because those changes were necessary for practical purposes, but because of powerful social and political forces. In New Orleans, traditional public schools were widely seen prior to the storm as corrupt, dysfunctional, and failing. The district was the second-lowest-performing in the state. Some local leaders saw the storms aftermath as an opportunity to change all that. In addition to ending attendance zones, the state government took over the traditional public schools and converted them into nonprofit, privately operated charter schools. They also eliminated teacher tenure and ended the union contract. No city had ever done any one of those things. New Orleans did them all at once. The latest results , recently released, were similarly unusual. The citys reforms increased everything from test scores and high school graduation to college-going and parental satisfaction. It is rare for any program or reform to have positive effects across such a wide range of measures for an entire district. Will COVID-19 create unprecedented changes in the nations schools as Katrina did in the schools of New Orleans? Perhaps. The situation certainly feels familiar. With COVID-19, our children have been, once again, forced to leave their school buildings, friends, and teachers and to experience different kinds of schooling. Once again, we face this in the shadow of economic calamity and lost lives. Once again, there is trauma. COVID-19 is also similar to Katrina because we are being forced to make changes in schooling. Students are doing more schoolwork from home, relying more on online tools, and learning under more flexible schedules and increased parental guidance. While we didnt really choose this new status quo, students, parents, and teachers will want to maintain some of those changes. For example, parent pods and micro schools are likely to expand. Online learning tools, some of which are very good, will be much more widely used. We cannot and should not replace the relationships between students and teachers, though. We can, of course, improve those relationships and the curriculum and instruction that are at their core. Some leaders, such as U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, want to go further and reimagine schools. But there are dangers to this. DeVos main goal seems to be turning schooling over to private organizations through vouchers, a strategy that has mostly failed based on available metrics when tried statewide. This is not a surprise given the fact that the provision of schooling is significantly different from the provision of other kinds of services. But its a lesson worth remembering. Now, you might wonder, why am I skeptical of reimagining? After all, the New Orleans reforms were unprecedented and generated comparatively large improvements in student outcomes. But New Orleans accomplished this in a very different way from the ideas now being discussed. State leaders rejected vouchers and gradually ramped up and revamped the role for government as they learned from their mistakes. They used some market-oriented features, such as parental choice and school autonomy, but maintained an active role for government, such as holding schools accountable and trying to ensure that all students had access to a quality school. They reimagined the system, but this was not an ideological end in itselfthey focused on getting the basics right in the classroom. New Orleans reformers also got some things wrong, however. The reforms were foisted on the citys mostly Black citizenry by a small number of white leaders. Three-quarters of teachers were Black and all of them were fired. As the national school reform leader Howard Fuller has put it, the New Orleans reforms were done to us, not with us, and that led to some poor decisions and lingering resentments that have undermined the long-term prospects of the reforms. Its not hard to see the problem with this top-down approach, especially as we reckon with systemic racism. One lesson of the New Orleans experience, then, is that crises force us into changes we might not have made otherwiseand some of this can be beneficial. The second lesson is that how we go about this reimagining matters a great deal. State and federal governments have key roles to play in creating the conditions for improvement (such as funding, accountability, and oversight), while other important decisions about the quality and character of schools should be left to students, parents, teachers, and communities. They can find out what works for themselves as they wade through this new educational reality. Fifteen years ago, we had a great tragedy in New Orleans, and we can now carefully consider what we did with our schools in its wake. Fifteen years from now, well be looking back on how we responded to COVID-19. We owe it to students, who are suffering mightily, to make the best of this difficult situation. Life Tuesday, BBC1 Rating: Honour Monday & Tuesday, ITV Rating: Life is the latest drama from Mike Doctor Foster Bartlett and it had, excitingly, been billed as a Doctor Foster spin-off, as one of the characters is familiar. Its Anna, your favourite frenemy and mine. Anna, Dr Gemma Fosters neighbour, who was always looming with a balloon wine glass in hand. Anna, who was married to Oily Neil. Anna, who was Victoria Hamilton in a terrible wig. What did happen to her after she ditched Oily Neil and left Parminster? Is she still ballooningly looming? But the trouble with Life, as quickly became apparent, is there isnt much life to it. Gail (Alison Steadman, above with Geoffrey Streatfeild) is approaching her 70th birthday celebrations when a run-in with an old school friend alerts her to how her husband controls her I kept wanting to thrash it with a broom Come to life, come to life! but it would not. It just stayed stubbornly bland. This series follows the residents of a large Manchester house divided into four flats, and whose lives intersect at various points, so it isnt that dissimilar to Jimmy McGoverns The Street. Or at all dissimilar, you could say. Anna still played by Hamilton, but with pixie cut rather than terrible wig has changed her name to Belle and is still at the wine, but not in a balloon glass, disappointingly, and is desperately lonely with a disruptive, troubled teenage niece who has come to stay. As of yet theres nothing to connect her to Doctor Foster, so she could be an entirely new character, which does make you wonder what the point is. Meanwhile, the other inhabitants include university teacher David (Adrian Lester), who is moping around for reasons we come to understand; pregnant Hannah (Melissa Johns), who has a boyfriend whos not the father of the baby but then the father of the baby with whom shed had a one-night stand does turn up; and Gail (Alison Steadman). Gail is approaching her 70th birthday celebrations when a run-in with an old school friend alerts her to what was astoundingly obvious anyhow: her husband Henry (Peter Davison) is patronising and belittling and controlling, and possibly the most annoying man ever. Quite why shes never seen this when you can see it from miles off is anyones guess. Its all very workmanlike, right down to Gail opening a window to release a trapped bee. (A metaphor! For freedom!) And its not just Gails storyline that feels familiar. They all do. Will Anna/Belle bond with her niece? Will she, will she? Will Hannah ditch her boring boyfriend for the dishy, cheeky one-night stand? Perhaps some great twists are on the way I did read that Oily Neil makes an appearance but for the moment this is dramatically turgid, and its lazy on the detail front. Would social services simply dump the niece on Anna/Belles doorstep? Ive awarded it two stars rather than fewer, solely for Hamilton and Steadman, who are watchable whatever, and there was that terrific moment when Anna/Belle confronted David about money owed for the painting of the hall. Ill give it that. There are still five episodes to go and I will watch but, frankly, only because Im paid to. And times are hard. The drama Honour was based on the real-life case of Banaz Mahmod, the 20-year-old from South London who, in 2006, was beaten, raped and murdered on the orders of her own family. She was from the Iraqi-Kurdish community, and her crime? Divorcing the violently abusive husband who had been chosen for when she was 17 and falling in love with someone else. The wonderful Keeley Hawes played real-life DCI Caroline Goode, who came on board when Banaz was reported missing, and whose dogged persistence and determination eventually revealed the horrific truth. The wonderful Keeley Hawes (above) played real-life DCI Caroline Goode, who came on board when Banaz was reported missing Also, it was revealed that Banaz had sought help from the police on five separate occasions and was never taken seriously, not even by a policewoman. Five times shes come to us and five times weve failed her, and I cant even blame it on the f****** men, is how Goode put it. Phone records, a car-tracker and the suspect who thankfully, perhaps, kept making calls despite the fact that his lawyer told him not to, finally led them to that derelict house in Birmingham. And what was buried there. It was all harrowing but riveting, with just a few moments of light relief, often in the form of Keilly, the police analyst who kept jumping to conclusions (Keilly facts). Such moments werent necessary but they were welcome. It was, I think, sensitively handled. For instance, the reaction of the Iraqi interpreter made it clear that not all males from the community are blinded by such misogyny. Still, its been criticised for being a white saviour narrative. That is, for putting the white person centre stage rather than offering a well-rounded account of the victim, and there is some truth to this. We learned little about Banaz. What was she like at school? What where her hobbies and aspirations? But on the other hand, if it touches one police officer who will act differently in future, or one young woman who realises she does not have to live in terror of her father, her uncle, her cousins, it has to be worth it. Doesnt it? David Oyedepo, the founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide a.k.a Winners Chapel has said that he considers it a demotion if invited to become Nigerias president. Recouting how God asked him if he was interested in going top in 1984, Oyedepo stated that though it is a great honour for anyone to be President, it is however not where he belongs. He said on Sunday October 4; Then whatever I tell you to do, do it. Dont run around: whatever I tell you to do, do it. Dont muse about: whatever I tell you to do. Dont do what they do: do what I tell you to do. 1984! Do you know thats what led me to say, I will consider it a demotion and Im saying it again, some are very upset about it, thats their problem. I will consider it a demotion if I were invited to be the President of this great country. Its a great country, its a great honour for anyone to be President but thats not where I belong. I belong to above all nations. Angry or happy, there are more than 100 nations now hooked on to this service; and we all belong there together. Thats where we belong. Some can see it, others cant see it: They say I dont believe it, I just need food, water and eat, drink and die. I dont need above all nations. Ive said it before the highest concentration of giants in this generation will emerge from this platform. If you are one of them, let me hear your loudest Amen. The same way, this Church did not need any human help to get to where we are, you wont bow to any devil to scale any height in your life. I will consider it a demotion if I were invited to be the President of this great country. Its a great country, its a great honour for anyone to be President but thats not where I belong. I belong to above all nations, he said. According to Oyedepo, Angry or happy, there are more than 100 nations now hooked on to this service; and we all belong there together. Thats where we belong. Some can see it, others cant see it: They say, I dont believe it, I just need food, water and eat, drink and die. I dont need above all nations. Ive said it before, the highest concentration of giants in this generation will emerge from this platform. If you are one of them, let me hear your loudest Amen. The same way, this Church did not need any human help to get to where we are, you wont bow to any devil to scale any height in your life." 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 Rebecca Judd has revealed that her mother once asked her if she 'liked girls' during her awkward teenage years. The footy WAG, 37, made the revelation while discussing her high school experience in a resurfaced interview with Show and Tell. Rebecca, who modelled extensively throughout Asia after her graduation, described herself as a 'tall and gangly' teen who had trouble with boys. Awkward! Rebecca Judd (pictured) has revealed that her mother once asked her if she 'liked girls' during her teenage years 'I was quite tall and gangly, braces by then, no boobs. I wasn't really the girl the guys would ever go for,' the entrepreneur explained. Rebecca said she was the late bloomer of her family, and that her sister, Kate Twigley, was the one with the 'blonde hair, 10DDs [and] little waist'. 'Everyone went for my sister and boys would call her all the time,' she added. Sister act: Rebecca said she was the late bloomer of her family, and that her sister, Kate Twigley (left), was the one with the 'blonde hair, 10DDs [and] little waist' Because mobile phones weren't yet widely used by teenagers, Rebecca and Kate's mother, Kerry Brown, would field the phone calls to their home landline. Rebecca said that the stream of calls from boys asking for Kate made her mother suspect that her other daughter preferred the company of women. The JAGGAD founder recalled her mother saying: 'Why don't boys ever call you? Boys always call Kate. Do you not like boys? Because that's okay if you like girls.' Questioning: Because mobile phones weren't yet widely used by teenagers, Rebecca's mother, Kerry Brown (left), would field the phone calls to their home landline. Rebecca said that the stream of calls from boys asking for Kate made her mother suspect that her other daughter preferred the company of women Rebecca told her mother that she did like boys, just not the ones at her school. 'And none of the boys like me either. That's just how it was,' she added. Elsewhere in the Show and Tell interview, Bec said she 'never' had a boyfriend in high school and that her husband, retired AFL star Chris Judd, was her first real love. Late bloomer: The footy WAG, 37, who modelled extensively throughout Asia after graduating from high school, described herself as a 'tall and gangly' teen who had trouble with boys 'Chris is my first proper boyfriend,' she said. 'My one true love.' The Judds have been married for 10 years and share four children: son Oscar, eight, daughter Billie, six, and twin boys Tom and Darcy, four. Rebecca recently said on KIIS FM's 3pm Pick-up that she and Chris had split early in their relationship, before getting back together. Happily ever after: Bec also said she 'never' had a boyfriend in high school and that her husband, retired AFL star Chris Judd (left), was her first real love. The couple are pictured with their children, son Oscar, eight, daughter Billie, six, and twin boys Tom and Darcy, four 'When Juddy and I were first hooking up when we were, I think about 19. We had only been hooking up for a little bit,' she said. 'He had this event to go to and I wasn't really expecting to be invited to that event because we'd only just got together. But I wasn't expecting him to invite his ex-girlfriend instead of me!' Rebecca was so 'heartbroken' by this that she almost broke up with Chris. 'It totally set us back I reckon another five or six months. So him and I were on-and-off for 18 months because none of us could actually tell each other what we were really thinking, even though we were mad for each other,' she said. I chatted to the international jury presidents ahead of the upcoming Loeries Creative Week. Next in the series is this year's design jury president Katherina Tudball, creative director at Superunion London. Katherina Tudball View this post on Instagram Hello @d_and_ad awards ceremony 2020 A post shared by Katherina Tudball (@tudballistic) on Sep 10, 2020 at 11:08am PDT Its always an honour to be asked to judge international work, especially as an international jury president for the Loeries. How did you celebrate the news and what does this mean to you, personally? Perhaps you can speak to this years theme, #CreateChange! while commenting on the impact of Covid-19 on the industry and the Loeries judging more specifically, the format for this year and so on. Globally we're all going through a year of great change that is out of our personal control. So, the idea of actively creating positive change wherever we can is a great sentiment for these times. Its inspiring to see all the ways that creative people have adapted to the difficulties in 2020, how we live and work has fundamentally changed for so many. But by thinking creatively around the current limitations we can create unexpected moments of connection and delight. What are you most looking forward to from Loeries Creative Week 2020? Whats the biggest trend in advertising that you expect to see from this years entries? With so much advertising noise out there, it takes a lot to stand out from the crowd. What will you be looking for in this years entries? The jury presidents also speak at the seminar, which is being broadcast Monday, 16 to Friday, 20 November. What can we expect from your session? Tudball has 15 years experience creating brands for some of the worlds most prominent organisations. With a passion for design that delivers a positive social impact, she has worked on many projects in the arts, culture, education and non-profit sectors. She began her career at Johnson Banks, later joined The Partners, and now leads a creative team at Superunion London.She is a regular design judge and speaker, and has been widely recognised and awarded by numerous international organisations. Her recent work for Shakespeares Globe received two Silver Cannes Lions. In 2018/19 she worked in collaboration with BBC Creative and a host of animation talent to create television channel BBC Twos first rebrand for over 20 years. The project picked up a silver Cannes Lion as well as a D&AD Yellow Pencil.Tudballs passionate advocacy for diversity in creativity has been recognised by D&AD's members, who elected her to the Board of Trustees in 2016. A graduate of Central Saint Martins, she has a keen interest in design education, leading Superunions partnership with D&AD New Blood Academy that promotes emerging creative talent. She is a regular visiting lecturer and has served as an external examiner and advisory board member for UK arts universities.This makes her the perfect person for the Loeries 2020 design jury president. I chatted to her about her judging expectations, what we can expect from her talk and moreJudging creativity is an honour for me, and to be president for the design jury is an extra special role. I was very happy to be invited, and although its certainly a shame that I wont be able to visit South Africa in person, Im thrilled. Ive judged previously in London, Cannes, Amsterdam and Mumbai so I hope those experiences will prepare me well for the responsibility.Im excited about the opportunity to see work that I might not be so familiar with, and design that comes from a different perspective to my own. As an international judge, its very important for me to understand as much as I can about context and relevance by listening to everyones views so I am looking forward to meeting the other judges and having some great debates.For awards judging and events in general I think this year opens up new opportunities for creative people all around the globe to connect and share ideas without the need for travel. And although arranging virtual judging this year must have been a challenge for the Loeries team, Im hopeful that we will have a great experience and may even end up with more focused debate and individual engagement as we review and discuss the work in a new way.Everything. Ive never attended before so Im really interested to see what happens. And, again, to see how the challenge of taking physical events online could provide a fresh experience for everyone involved.For some time weve seen a shift towards creativity with a social conscience. Id expect to see more of that this year, reflecting a greater interest and awareness of global issues and a reaction to division. Im really interested to see how the experiences of this year are reflected in the creative work thats being made right now, but I think well have to wait until 2021 to really see that come through.Im always looking for the same things. Really great ideas first and foremost. The standout work happens when those ideas are beautifully and appropriately crafted to function and make sense within their cultural context.My session will be quite a personal take on the theme of creating change, in terms of my journey and the themes that appear in my work. Im thinking both about how I have changed and how creativity has the power to affect us on a human level and change how we feel.Judging takes place from September to November with the results announced daily during Loeries Creative Week from 16 to 20 November. Tickets sales opened Monday, 21 September 2020. Book and pay for your early bird ticket from Loeries.com President Donald Trump fired off a barrage of early morning tweets from hospital on Monday, after being criticised for taking part in a drive-by despite needing to quarantine. Mr Trump, 74, listed a series of issues he has been campaigning on throughout the election, including abortion rights, the military and space projects. In what appeared to be a voter call to action, Mr Trump claimed that voting for him meant "tax cuts", "religious liberty" and "law and order". The president has been at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre in Bethesda, Maryland since Friday. He was moved there having fallen ill after testing positive for coronavirus, which has claimed some 210,000 US lives and crippled the economy. Speculation continues to surround how serious the president's condition is after his medical team denied he had received oxygen at a press conference on Saturday. In a separate update on Sunday, the president's doctors said he had been treated with dexamethasone. Dexamethasone is a type of steroid that is usually only used on the most sick coronavirus patients. Researchers announced in June that dexamethasone reduced the risk of death among ventilated Covid-19 patients by around 33 per cent. A team of scientists working on the Recovery Trial at Oxford University found that it was also successful in treating patients receiving oxygen, reducing deaths by up to 20 per cent. Despite this, the president's medical team on Sunday suggested that he could released as soon as Monday. Later in the day, Mr Trump issued a video on social media in which he continued to insist that he was well and in good spirits. In the clip, he also promised to greet supporters who had been waiting outside the hospital and was later spotted outside in his motorcade. Dr James P Phillips, a CNN media contributor and an attending physician at the Maryland hospital, attacked the president's political theatre as "insanity". "That presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of Covid-19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures," Dr Phillips said in a tweet. "The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play." NIZHNY NOVGOROD, Russia -- The governor of the Nizhny Novgorod region, Gleb Nikitin, says he will do everything he can to ensure a thorough investigation of the death of the chief editor of the Koza Press news website, Irina Slavina, who died after staging an act of self-immolation following a police search of her apartment last week. Nikitin said he "sincerely mourns" Slavina's passing and he posted a photo on Instagram on October 4 that had been taken at a ceremony where he presented her with an award for journalism, writing that he personally knew Slavina, with whom he said he had a "constructive" working relationship. I "will do everything to have the investigation of the circumstances that led to the tragedy under control on the highest level possible," he wrote. Slavina died after setting herself on fire in front of the police headquarters in the city of Nizhny Novgorod on October 2. Before staging the self-immolation, she posted a statement on Facebook, saying "Blame the Russian Federation for my death." She did so a day after police searched her apartment looking for evidence linking her with the opposition Open Russia group. Andrei Pivovarov, the executive director of Open Russia, told the radio station Ekho Moskvy on October 2 that Slavina had nothing to do with his group. The Commission on Freedom of Speech and the Protection of Journalists and the Commission on Civil Rights at the presidential Council on Human Rights have called on the Investigative Committee to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding Slavina's self-immolation. "Slavina's act looks like an extreme, but in a way logical, form of protest against those who are supposed to protect the law, but premeditatedly violate it when dealing with journalists," a statement from the two commissions said. On October 3, the Investigative Committee's branch in Nizhny Novgorod stated that Slavina's suicide had nothing to do with the searches of her apartment, during which her computers and mobile phones were confiscated. "The presidential Council on Human Rights called the statement "an expression of the utmost cynicism," describing it as "bankrupt" on both a human and professional level. "Slavina was systematically targeted and persecuted by local law enforcement. Huge fines that brought her family to the edge of poverty and, at last, the outrageous search and confiscation of all of the tools of her professional activities... affected her psychological state," the council said in a separate statement. Slavina was fined several times for her articles and for participating in unsanctioned pickets in the past. SARATOGA SPRINGS - State Senator Daphne Jordan did not respond to the League of Women Voters' request to participate in a forum with her opponent in this year's election. Charlotte Druschel, co-chair of the Leagues Voter Services Committee who organizes the forums, said she did everything she could to schedule the Halfmoon Republican, who represents the 43rd district, to debate her Democratic opponent, Patrick Nelson. I started trying in August, she wrote to the Times Union in an email. I emailed (the same email used by Vote411 to which she responded), left several messages on the campaign phone and also tried to message through the campaign Facebook page. She never responded. Jordan and Saratoga County Republican Chairman Carl Zeilman also did not respond to the Times Union to ask about why Jordan was apparently ignoring the debate request. Now her opponent is using it in his campaign against the incumbent. She is not willing to defend her record, Nelson said. She is the least productive senator in the history of the district. She has the least amount of (lead sponsorships) on bills passes. Her website indicates that in her first and only term she has successfully sponsored two bills: extending the bed tax in Hudson and authorizing Mechanicville to hire an attorney who resides outside of the city limits. The job went to Saratoga County attorney and Halfmoon town attorney Lyn Murphy. Jordan, a member of the senate's Republican minority, has sponsored other bills, but they are stuck in committees. Prior to being elected to the Senate, Jordan worked for former state Senator Kathy Marchione, also from Halfmoon. Nominate your favorite people and places now Its the 25th anniversary of our Best of the Capital Region readers survey. Nominate your favorite people, places and businesses between Jan. 21 and Feb. 4. Nelson, who is a Stillwater village trustee and a campaign consultant on state and national races including that of Bernie Sandes, said that he wants to talk to constituents about pressing issues facing the district including agriculture, jobs, schools and reopening during the pandemic. He said Jordan's disregard for the league's forums means she's not doing her job as a representative. Its part of the process, its part of the job she signed up to do," Nelson said. "Its also disrespectful to the voters. Druschel said the forums that are moderated by the league are vital to helping voters understand where the candidates stand on the issues. We want to provide a forum for the voters to hear from the candidates themselves what their positions are on issues and their approach to solving problems, Druschel said. We want the forums to focus on this and not personal attacks, so voters will have information to assist them in their choice. Reuters ROMEThe strange case of a top Vatican cardinal who Pope Francis dismissed in September has just taken a Machiavellian turn that would make Dan Brown proud. Giovanni Angelo Becciu, the Vaticans former secretary of state and, until recently, head of the Holy Sees saint-making wing, has been accused of funneling some $800,000 of the popes charity money to Australia to buy false testimony against his archrival, Cardinal George Pell, while he was on trial for sexually abusing choir boys in Australia more than 30 years ago. Disgraced Cardinal George Pell Slithers Back to Rome and Targets His Vatican Bank Enemies Becciu adamantly denies all wrongdoing, issuing a statement Monday in which he said, I categorically deny interfering in any way in the trial of Cardinal Pell. Pell, who mysteriously returned to Rome last week despite a ban on Australians traveling abroad, was first convicted in 2018, and then acquitted of historical clerical sex abuse in April, after what was known as the cathedral trial because the alleged crimes happened in Melbournes main basilica. The trial in which he was acquitted came after a hung jury on the same case. A subsequent trial that involved accusations of Pell grabbing young boys genitals in a public swimming club, known as the swimmers trial, was dropped when Pell was convicted. Pell left Rome in 2017 while serving as the popes top financial czar as head of the Secretariat of the Economy. The pope never removed him from that post, even after his conviction, but the term expired in 2019 and Pells mandate was not renewed. The role has not been filled since. It was during that time as the Vaticans No. 3 that he first accused Becciuwho was then the Vaticans secretary of state and thus the churchs No. 2of financial improprieties tied to dodgy loans, a property in Londons Sloane Square, and mysterious transfers of cash from the papal charity known as Peters Pence to his brother in Sardinia. Story continues At the time, Pell ordered an audit into the Holy Sees financial discrepancies, which was halted by Becciu, who was Pells superior. It is unclear what Pope Francis said at the time Becciu pulled rank to stop the audit. Over the weekend, Italian newspapers were slipped leaked summaries of what is being reported as the Vaticans internal investigation into Beccius alleged crimes. Those leaks imply that Becciu is being investigated for funneling around $800,000 to conservative groups in Australia meant to buy hostile testimony against Pell in his pedophile trial. Pell was unanimously convicted in February 2019 for assaulting two former choir boys in a cathedral while he was archbishop of Melbourne in the 1990s. His conviction was overturned in April after an appellate court found that the testimony was lacking. The Italian leaks also refer to a 39-year-old woman named as Cecilia Morogna, who is described as Beccius niece and reported to be involved in some of the transfers. But the investigation leaks imply that Morogna is no relative of Beccius at all and is in fact part of a Freemasonry Roosevelt Movement. Grainy photos run in the papers imply that she has been seen in the cardinals company several times in Rome. On Monday in Melbourne, a lawyer representing the primary witness in the trial against Pell adamantly denied receiving money for his testimony. Viv Waller represents the alleged victim, whose name has not been made public because of privacy issues related to child sex-abuse allegations. She said her clients testimony was genuine. My client denies any knowledge or receipt of any payments, she told reporters in Melbourne. He wont be commenting further in response to these allegations. Pells Australian lawyer, Robert Richter, has instead insisted that these claims of paid-for testimony be investigated. They are concerning allegations and require thorough investigation of the money trail, wherever that may be, he said Monday. The Vatican has not issued comment on the latest allegations beyond confirming that its investigation into Becciu and at least six others continues in secrecy. Read more at The Daily Beast. Get our top stories in your inbox every day. Sign up now! Daily Beast Membership: Beast Inside goes deeper on the stories that matter to you. Learn more. The Biden camp says theyve adhered to CDC guidelines since the onset of COVID-19, which Trump now has. Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden again tested negative for COVID-19 on Sunday. Biden took two tests on Friday; both were negative. The former vice president has been tested out of an abundance of caution after being exposed to coronavirus when he shared the stage with President Donald Trump during the first presidential debate last Tuesday. Wearing a face mask to reduce the risk posed by COVID-19, Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden departs his live video campaign event Saturday in Wilmington, Delaware. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) Reporter Yamiche Alcindor tweeted Sunday afternoon that the Biden campaign is reporting that he had been tested using PCR testing, which is the more accurate nasal swab test, and that COVID-19 was not detected. President Trump confirmed that he had tested positive for the virus on Friday. Read More: Cotton says infected GOP senators would break quarantine to confirm SCOTUS Biden is scheduled to campaign in Florida today, where his campaign has said that it will observe public health guidelines on masks, social distancing and crowd sizes. The Democratic candidates testing regimen has not been made public. Campaign officials have said only that the vice president and his running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris, are tested regularly. Read More: Barr changes stance, will now quarantine amid virus outbreak Much like I wouldnt discuss our security plans here on national television, Im not going to talk about our inner workings of our health plans, Symone D. Sanders, a senior adviser for the Biden campaign, said on CNNs State of the Union Sunday when asked what the campaign would do if Biden tested positive. Sanders said the Biden campaign has adhered to guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic earlier this year. Read More: White House claims appropriate precautions taken for Trumps motorcade ride We are adhering to CDC guidance, we are listening to the public health experts, and we are taking every single precaution. Our staff are wearing masks and are social distancing everywhere on planes, in cars, inside events, outside events, Sanders said. Were wearing the masks that are keeping us safe. Story continues Trump campaign senior adviser Jason Miller said on ABC News Sunday that Biden often uses a mask as a prop. In response to Millers comment, Biden deputy campaign manager Kate Bedingfield maintained, I think that tells you a lot of what you need to know about how the Trump campaign has treated this from the outset. Have you subscribed to theGrios Dear Culture podcast? Download our newest episodes now! TheGrio is now on Apple TV, Amazon Fire and Roku. Download theGrio.today! The post Biden again tests negative for virus amid Washington outbreak appeared first on TheGrio. (Natural News) Have you wondered why Biden kept looking down most of the debate, even though he had no notes? He was concentrating on what his advisors were telling him, over the wire. Make no mistake, while Trump was talking and arguing with Wallace, Biden was being told exactly what to say next, word for word. This must be called out at the very beginning of the next debate, and Trump may even demand jackets be opened, sleeves rolled up, and ear holes examined. This is how Biden prevented most off his own gaffs, even though he told lie after lie, knowing fake news would back him up on all of it, but then this happened. There is video and photographic proof Joe Biden wore a special communication device with an inductive loop (hidden wire) during the entire first Presidential debate. In fact, you can see the inductive loop protruding from his sport jacket near the lapel on his right side, and you can see the communication device extend at his inner wrist of his left hand, when he was told to turn and fake one cough if you can hear us okay. The Biden debate cheat team was out in full force, and theyll do it again next debate, unless they get called out by Trump, live. Bidens debate cheat team tells him the secret device wire is showing so he tucks it back in casually The swamp monsters are sinking fast in their own quicksand. They are living in ultimate desperation, knowing so many at the top are going to federal prison for some long stints if Trump is reelected next month. Heres the moment of revelation, when Biden screws up for just a split second, live in front of the world, and reveals the wire to his cheating teams advice. Watch closely. Yes, a photo is worth a thousand words, but a live video feed thats recorded is the tell-tale proof of all. For all the lies the Democrats tell and scrub from the internet later, so their base will never know, this one got busted, got out and got out fast. Knowing Biden cannot debate, think straight or speak without tossing word salads, racist gaffs and statistical lies around, there is a 100 percent chance he will be wired to cheat again at the next debate. That is why Trump needs to open the debate like this: Sleepy Joe, I would like to thank you and your whole team, whos speaking into your ear and out of your mouth, for being so slick at the last debate. Tonight, I ask that you open your jacket, roll up your sleeves, and show the camera your ears, to prove that youre not wearing a special communication device kit, like you did last time. We know, because we have you on video. And just as Sleezy Joe, Chris Wallace and the insane Left demanded Trump denounce white supremacy, now its time for Alzheimer Joe to show the world hes a cheater. The gig is up force Sleepy, Sleazy, Sneaky Joe to open his jacket before the debate begins to reveal his debate cheat device Biden has already been busted wearing earpieces so his team can feed him lines during town hall meetings, virtual meetings, basically everywhere he goes. He often asks his cheat team to turn up the volume, while he fiddles with his ears waiting for words that actually make sense to Americans. Dont forget, the Biden camp REFUSED any type of third-party inspection for communication devices just days before the debate. Remember? This is why. If its just a baseless conspiracy theory, then it can be easily debunked live at the beginning of the next debate. Simple as that. It will only take 10 seconds for Biden and Trump to open their jackets, roll up their sleeves, and let the cameras zoom in on their ears from the side. Just as people are checked by metal detectors and pat downs for weapons at the door, lets check for weapons of mass destruction (Biden cheating his way into the White House) at the debates. The Left is dying to install Communism in America, and destroy the middle class, gun rights, freedom of press, freedom of religion and freedom to criticize the government, just like in China right now. This is a covert operation to steal the election. The Left needs covert spying, listening and communication devices. Heres one brand of the device the Biden team used if youd like to know more about the Democrats cheating schemes. Using a clarity, interference-free microphone system, complete with neck loop and discrete wireless earpieces, Bidens advisors (who arent senile like him) were able to review every statement with him before he spoke, tell him what NOT to say, tell him when to smile and laugh things off, and prepare him so he sounded, at the least, functional. The cheat kit includes a wireless receiver module and a disguised wireless car key fob for use with the wireless earpieces. This high tech innovation provides interference-free communication thats encrypted. It comes with volume control and is compatible with all the top PTT applications. Heres how the whole debate cheat kit is set up for Biden backstage: Place the loop around your neck. Attach the loop to your covert carrying solution or tape the loop to your body to avoid shifting during operation. Insert the connector into your mobile communication device. Place the communication device into your pocket or covert carrying solution. Place the earpiece into your ear. Tune your internet dial to Trump.news for updates on the Bidens sneaky, sleezy camp, cheating while they all sink in quicksand in their own swamp. Sources for this article include: Trump.news HappeningDaily.com RadioTrans.com Breitbart.com NaturalNews.com Press Trust of India Scientists have developed a new method of testing for COVID-19 that doesn't make use of key reagents but still delivers an accurate result, an advance that may lead to an inexpensive diagnosis technique in developing countries where chemical supplies are in short supply. The method, described in the journal PLOS Biology, omits the step in the widely used reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test where the scarce reagents are needed, but has an accuracy of 92 percent, missing only the lowest viral loads. The researchers, including those from the University of Washington in the US, tested the new method using 215 COVID-19 samples that RT-PCR tests had shown were positive, with a range of viral loads, and 30 that were negative. They said it correctly identified 92 percent of the positive samples and 100 percent of the negatives. While the positive samples the new test failed to catch had very low levels of the virus, the scientists said ultra-sensitive tests that identify individuals with even the smallest viral loads may not be needed to slow the spread of the disease. "It was a very positive result," said Jason Botten senior author of the study from the University of Vermont in the US. "You can go for the perfect test, or you can use the one that''s going to pick up the great majority of people and stop transmission," Botten said. While standard PCR tests have three steps, the version developed by the researchers has only two, the study noted. "In step 1 of the RT-PCR test, you take the swab with the nasal sample, clip the end and place it in a vial of liquid, or medium. Any virus on the swab will transfer from the swab into the medium," Botten said. "In step 2, you take a small sample of the virus-containing medium and use chemical reagents, the ones that are often in short supply, to extract the viral RNA. In step 3, you use other chemicals to greatly amplify any viral genetic material that might be there. If virus was present, you''ll get a positive signal," he explained. In the new method, Botten said, a sample of the medium that held the nasal swab is taken directly to the third, amplification step, removing the need for scarce RNA extraction reagents as well as significantly reducing the time, labour and costs required to extract viral RNA from the medium in step 2. According to the researchers, the test is ideally suited to screening programs, in both developed and developing countries, since it is "inexpensive, takes much less processing time, and reliably identifies those who are likely to spread the disease." Its low cost and efficiency could extend testing capacity to groups not currently being tested, including the asymptomatic, nursing home residents, essential workers and school children, Botten added. He said the standard RT-PCR test could be reserved for groups, like health care workers, where close to 100 percent accuracy is essential. Wearing a face mask, washing your hands and social distancing are the strategies aimed at combatting the spread of the coronavirus. They also work pretty well as a safeguard against the flu. Now, theres evidence suggesting that masks may remain a familiar sight in flu season, even in the hopefully not too distant future where the coronavirus in under control. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) is calling on the Trump Administration through the U.S. Department of the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) to enforce crippling sanctions against Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Turkish President Recep Erdogan, and their senior military leaders for wars crimes committed against civilians in both Armenia and the Republic of Artsakh (Nagorno Karabakh), ANCA reports. President Trump with the bipartisan support of Congress must immediately direct U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to enforce sanctions against Ilham Aliyev and Recep Erdogan both demonstrably guilty of directing a premeditated surprise attack and sustained assault on civilians in Armenia and Artsakh, said ANCA Chairman Raffi Hamparian. We look to the Treasury Department to move with dispatch to enforce these sanctions against Recep Erdogan and Ilham Aliyev. Both are war criminals, and should be treated as such by the U.S. Government. Should the U.S. Department of Treasury enact sanctions called for by the ANCA, all of Erdogans and Aliyevs property and interests in the United States or in the possession or control of U.S. persons would be blocked or frozen and reported to OFAC. Starting on September 27th the Azerbaijani military, after considerable planning and deliberation, launched missiles, artillery shells, and suicide drones against civilian populations in Artsakhs capital Stepanakert as well as other civilian populations in and around Artsakh, as well as against certain areas of the Republic of Armenias town of Vardenis, causing death and injury to dozens of civilians. This deliberate targeting of civilians constitutes a vicious and cold-blooded violation of international humanitarian law and basic human rights. Turkey has also recruited foreign jihadist terrorists to fight alongside Azerbaijan in this anti-Armenian campaign, ANCA said. 18+ FOR.kg search news service (news aggregator, media aggregator) Read first Agreement on the use of the FOR.kg search site When using materials from the FOR.kg - reference to the source is required For all questions please contact customer support N ew York's mayor is seeking to reimpose shutdowns in nine Covid-19 hotspot districts in a bid to prevent the whole city being hit by a second wave. The measures would see about 300 schools close across nine postcode areas in Brooklyn and Queens from Wednesday, while indoor dining would be suspended just days after it resumed. Mayor Bill de Blasio said he was taking the action, which has to be approved by state politicians, in an attempt to prevent a repeat of the first wave that killed more than 24,000 New Yorkers in the spring. Weve learned over and over from this disease that it is important to act aggressively, and when the data tells us its time for even the toughest and most rigorous actions, we follow the data, we follow the science, he said. Nearly 1,100 people have tested positive in Brooklyn in the last four days. New Yorks restaurants were allowed to resume indoor dining from September 30, albeit at only 25 per cent of their seating capacity. In France, the bars of Paris will have to shut for at least two weeks from tomorrow as the capital is placed on maximum Covid-19 alert. It had been feared that restaurants would also have to shut but they will be allowed to stay open provided they put in place new safety protocols. France yesterday reported 12,565 new cases, while 893 patients have been admitted into intensive care over the past week. U.S.-Russian relations have long been strained but an exception to that has always been mutually beneficial joint efforts in space. Or so it seemed. New internal emails from NASA, shared with McClatchy and the Miami Herald, suggest the space relationship too has been increasingly strained. The reason: The secrecy surrounding the COVID-19 death of a Russian space official whose pre-launch close contact with a U.S. astronaut potentially exposed the American to the virus. The emails center on the shocking mid-April news that one of the top officials in the Russian program, Evgeniy Mikrin, near the top of the Russian space program, had contracted the coronavirus. He died soon after the launch of a U.S. astronaut on a Russian spacecraft for six months on the International Space Station orbiting Earth. Expedition 63 crew members Chris Cassidy of NASA, seated left, and Anatoly Ivanishin and Ivan Vagner of Roscosmos, seated right, pose for a photo with backup crew members Steve Bowen of NASA, standing left, and Sergey Ryzhikov and Andrei Babkin of Roscosmos, standing right, after the crew had its Sokol suits pressure checked prior to launch on a Soyuz rocket, Thursday, April 9, 2020. Photos from the time show Mikrin and other top Russian space officials standing next to astronaut Chris Cassidy and two Russian cosmonauts shortly before they boarded their spacecraft in Baikonur, Kazakhstan, to slingshot skyward. Mikrins COVID-19 diagnosis was news in Russia. And the emails show, unfortunately, that it was news too to NASA. They show that a science reporter from Great Britains Sun newspaper, Harry Pettit, reached out to NASA on April 17 with a link to a story in another British paper, the Guardian, citing unconfirmed rumors that people involved in the space launch were infected with the coronavirus. Does Nasa have a comment in regards to this rumour? Pettit asked of Kathryn Hambleton, a NASA media specialist. Pettit ran a story on the same day, carried in the New York Post, that did not include any comment from NASA. The agency had no comment for this story despite multiple calls and emails. Private contractors from Boeing who were on the private NASA email chains also did not respond to requests for comment. The emails show that Hambletons boss, Stephanie Schierholz, was concerned enough to fire off an internal notice across NASAs Russia program asking if anyone else had been contacted or heard the rumor. Story continues Hi everyone, we heard about this yesterday. Ive attached what I know from our team on the ground in Moscow. Hope this helps, thanks! wrote back Andy Parks, a Washington, D.C.-based international program specialist, now eight days after the launch. This screenshot from the website of the Russian space company RSC Energia shows Evgeniy Mikrin, a top space official who died of COVID-19 shortly after attending a space launch that included an American astronaut last April. Some inside NASA had heard the news, it turned out. But theyd heard unofficially, and only a day earlier via the Russian media. Per the media reports this morning ... Yevgeny Mikrin got infected with coronavirus and is isolated at home. MIkrin has no clinical symptoms of being sick, wrote Elena V. Maroko, a Russian translator for NASA, using an alternate English spelling of the Russians name in an April 16 internal email Mikrin was tested twice and both tests were COVID positive, said the source. Currently, he is one of 30 people officially claimed infected inside Roscosmos. NASA wasnt hearing this from counterparts at Roscosmos, the Russian equivalent of NASA, whose leader is close with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Instead, the news was filtering out in tiny bits through Russian media. And the concerns were focused on the Russian leaders, not American astronaut Chris Cassidy, who was a week into orbit, floating in his high-tech tin can along with two Russian cosmonauts far above the world. The NASA email chain was obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request filed in May by a user of MuckRock, an online site dedicated to helping ordinary citizens file and track public records requests. MuckRock shared the results recently with McClatchy and the Miami Herald. Translator Marokos original email added that Russian space officials told local media it did not comment on personnel and medical issues. A few hours later she followed up with another, passing along a link to an article from Russias Interfax news agency about the first reported case at Star City, the site in Russia where its cosmonauts train. Keeping fingers crossed it does not affect anything critical, she wrote, prompting a response from Patrick Finley, a deputy division director for NASA involved in international matters, that it was alarming news. Mikrin, 64, was a lion in Russias space program. He was a member of Russias prestigious Academy of Sciences and the chief designer of RSC Energia, which services Roscosmos. Mikrin had flown to the launch site on a three-hour flight with Roscosmos chief Dmitry Rogozin, and photos showed Rogozin breaking social distancing guidelines, appearing next to the astronauts without a mask shortly before their April 9 launch. If Mikrin had infected Rogozin, the coronavirus could have easily passed to the three men who were later cloistered inside the International Space Station. Shortly before launch, the three described to reporters the rigid COVID protocols theyd followed. And these were widely publicized by NASA, too. Steps had been taken to minimize any chance of coming down with the virus while in space, where nothing could be done to help. But now, a week into the flight, NASA faced that very possibility. Frustration that Russian counterparts werent being forthcoming boiled over. That was apparent in an email sent on April 20 by Tricia K. Mack, who heads the human space flight programs Russia office for NASA. Weve read the news articles, but have not been contacted by any of our Russian colleagues to confirm the story. The news articles say he was on the plane with Rogozin down to Baikonur, Mack wrote of Mikrins positive test results. Weve read the news articles but have not been contacted by any of our Russian colleagues to confirm the story. There were also unconfirmed rumors that Pavel Vinogradov, another top designer and a former cosmonaut, had also been infected with COVID-19, and Mack was seeking to confirm it. Lets see what we get on Wednesday and then we can formulate a plan whether to follow up with a formal letter, she wrote. Expedition 63 crew member Chris Cassidy of NASA walks to board the Soyuz rocket with NASAs director for Human Space Flight Programs, Russia, Tricia Mack, on right, ahead of the launch in April 2020. Macks email suggested that behind the scenes the U.S.-Russian space relationship was also a strained one. This [program] was something discreet that functioned rather well. This is revealing a side that most of us who look at the broader details wouldnt have known about, said Angela Stent, a scholar at Georgetown University and a former State Department and National Intelligence Council expert on U.S.-Russian relations. Eight days into the mission, Ven Feng, NASAs deputy program manager of the Commercial Crew Program at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, also sent around photos. They showed Mikrin and Rogozin posing alongside cosmonauts, and accompanying Cassidy to the rocket launch site. Expedition 63 crew members Chris Cassidy of NASA, left, and Anatoly Ivanishin and Ivan Vagner of Roscosmos report to Roscosmos Director General Dmitry Rogozin, right, as they depart building 254 for the launch pad, Thursday, April 9, 2020 at the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The email trail picked up again on April 22, when Mack sent around word that theyd heard from Alexey Strelnikov, a Russian Space Station manager, who relayed what he heard from TsENKII, the Russian operational center for space programs. I spoke with Strelnikov to follow up on Mikrin testing positive. He said he couldnt get a hold of Evgeny, but there is a TsENKII document from Space Center Yushnii [Baikonur] that says Mikrin tested positive. Strelnikov didnt know the date he did or anything about a contact trace, though he did say that people in close contact with Mikrin were tested and mentioned Krikalev, Mack wrote. Sergei Krikalev, referenced in Macks email, is another RSC Energia leader. He carries a unique historical footnote. Krikalev was on the Soviet space station Mir in 1989 when the Soviet Union broke apart. The monumental events forced him to stay in space 311 days, double his mission, as his homeland collapsed. No other NASA emails covering the following weeks were made public. The next came on May 7, when a State Department official, whose name was redacted by NASA, sent another Interfax article to NASA officials about Mikrins planned burial. It was to be held the following day at Moscows Federal Military Memorial Cemetery. There would be a memorial later when the COVID-19 quarantines would be lifted. Rogozin had actually announced Mikrins death two days earlier. President Putin sent condolences to the family, citing Mikrins invaluable contribution to space flight. On May 8, Russian officials told local media that Mikrin was not infected when he flew with Rogozin to the space launch the prior month and that no one else had tested positive. Russia isnt exactly known for transparency, leading some to doubt that statement. How the incident will affect relations going forward is an open question, one that will have an answer on Oct. 14. Thats when U.S. astronaut Kathleen Rubins is scheduled to board a Soyuz spacecraft in Baikonur with two cosmonauts for a trip to the space station. Publicly, Roscosmos leadership has papered over the April infection threat. We managed to do this, and no infection got into orbit, which is very important Rogozin told Interfax on July 1, confident there will be no problems later this month. NASA has depended on the Russians since scrapping the Space Shuttle in July 2011 and preparing for a next phase in space involving greater private-sector participation. Redacted emails by Casey Frank on Scribd Elon Musks SpaceX began sending cargo to the space station in 2012 and this past May successfully launched two American astronauts into space and docked them with the International Space Station. It marked the first manned launch from U.S. facilities since 2011. That Americans depended on them in space was a source of pride for many Russians. Rogozin reportedly mocked the United States in private for its dependency on Russias space program. I think the astronauts and cosmonauts have a good workable relationship. There has always been an element of competition, said Stent, who has followed bilateral relations up close for decades. The fact that this has happened now, it calls into question how they are treating their own cosmonauts. Its a serious prestige question. If you really want to honour him, implement his inclusive ideology: SC Bose's grandnephew At DMs meets, PM calls for direct, emotional connect between administration and public for good governance PM Modi, Chinese President Jinping to attend BRICS Summit virtually on Nov 17 India oi-Deepika S New Delhi, Oct 05: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend the BRICS Summit virtually on November 17. This will be their first face-to-face meeting since the standoff started in June. According to a statement issued by Russia, the five participating nations - Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa - have been able to maintain 'close strategic partnership' on peace, security, economy, finance, cultural and people-to-people exchanges amid Covid crisis. Kim Jong Un pays tribute to Ho Chi Minh on Vietnam visit "The main purpose of the Russian BRICS Chairmanship in 2020, as it is for multifaceted cooperation between the BRICS countries, is to contribute to raising living standards and quality of life our peoples," according to a statement issued by the BRICS Presidency. Hathras Case: UP Police files 19 FIRs, ink thrown at AAP MP Sanjay Singh | Oneindia News "Despite the current global situation due to the spread of the coronavirus infection, the activities under the Russian BRICS Chairmanship in 2020 are carried out in a consistent manner. Since January 2020 more than 60 events have been organized, including via videoconferencing," the statement added. Russia is the host country of the 12th BRICS Summit. Lucknow, Oct 5 : The employees in the power department of the Uttar Pradesh government began an indefinite complete work boycott from Monday in response to a call given by the UP Vidyut Karmachari Sanyukt Sangharsh Samiti to protest against the proposed privatisation of the Varanasi discom. The government said it has made all the preparations to deal with the agitation. The UP Power Corporation Ltd (UPPCL) management had held talks with the Sangharsh Samiti leaders to persuade them to withdraw the work boycott call, but talks failed after the management rejected their proposal for effecting reforms in the energy sector without privatising it. "After the UPPCL management turned down our reform proposal, we have asked all the power personnel to begin the full day work boycott from Monday as per the pre-declared plan," said Shailendra Dubey, chairman of the All-India Power Engineers Federation (AIPEF). He accused the management of misleading the government and appealed to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to intervene into the matter to stem the growing unrest in the power sector. UP Power Officers Association president, K.B. Ram and acting president, Avadhesh Kumar Verma on Monday met state BJP president Swatantra Dev Singh, state Congress president Ajay Kumar Lallu and BSP leader Satish Chandra Mishra and submitted memorandum to them seeking their support to stop privatisation. "Essential services like hospitals have been exempted from the work boycott of the staff," Verma said. On the other hand, the state government has hardened its stand on the issue and has warned of strict action against protestors if they tried to disrupt the power supply. Chief secretary Rajendra Kumar Tiwari held a video conference with divisional commissioners, district magistrates as well as senior police officers and issued directions to deal with the situation that may arise from the power staff's proposed work boycott from Monday. He asked them to ensure that the power supply was not disrupted in the state. A government spokesman said all preparations were in place to deal with the protestors. "The government has identified critical power stations for beefing up security around them and also chalked out an action plan to hand over power transmission and distribution system to alternative staff if needed. On January 20th, 2020 the US and South Korea both discovered their first cases of COVID-19, the films synopsis reads. However, nine months later, the novel Coronavirus has claimed the lives of over 200,000 Americans and caused staggering economic damage, while in South Korea, there were no significant lockdowns and, in an urbanized population of 51 million, only 344 lives have been lost. Where did we go wrong? A man a Muslim sits peacefully outside a mosque in Rexdale. Another man approaches. In a flash, the Muslim is dead. Mohamed-Aslim Zafis was killed in cold blood for no reason other than his faith. In moments of tragedy, people will sometimes say: It could have been anyone. But in this case, it could only have been a Muslim. The motivation was clear. The prejudice was clear. The hatred was clear. We live in a worrying and increasingly dangerous time. The intolerant among us have become more open about their prejudice. Their hateful voices have become louder. Some feel emboldened by the President of the United States, who in front of tens of millions of people this week refused to condemn white supremacy. We must not allow ourselves to become silent witnesses to hate. It is important to speak out. But it is not enough to speak out. Our leaders must also take action to protect innocent citizens and defend the Canadian values of fairness, inclusion and justice. What can they do? First, they can use existing sections of the Criminal Code to ban white supremacist militias (like the Three Percenters) from operating in Canada. Our prime minister has already outlawed some of these groups. But there are hundreds more across the country spewing hatred. We need to make it more difficult for them to organize and recruit. Second, our leaders can move forward with legislation that monitors and punishes online hate. Social media and online communities are important and permanent parts of our daily lives. People should be free to exchange views and ideas. But genuine instances of hate speech and threatening language need to be rooted out and the perpetrators need to face real-world consequences. The dark corners of the internet are a breeding ground of intolerance and menace. Finally, our leaders need to ensure that Canadas national security agencies do more to take seriously the threat of white supremacist violence. That means devoting more resources to investigators. It means bringing meaningful charges where warranted. And it means understanding that racist groups pose a genuine and growing security risk to a segment of the Canadian family. On the night of the first presidential debate, as Donald Trump was urging a fascist fringe group to stand by, Canadas elected representatives stayed up well into the morning hours to debate and approve new relief benefits for those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a welcome contrast Canadas politicians working together to help people while the so-called leader of the free world gave comfort to the intolerant. But we cannot let ourselves be lulled into complacency. Hate exists here in Canada, too. The violently intolerant are growing more open about it, more confident, more strident and unpredictable. Many in my community are afraid. Our leaders must do their part and so must we all. We must fight back as Canadians. We must shout down those who seek to divide based on race and religion. We must defend the values that Canada was built on. We must show those who hate that they will never win. Hate must never win. Kolkata, Oct 5 : A day after the murder of BJP leader Manish Shukla near Titagarh in North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday claimed that law and order had alarmingly deteriorated in the state even as two top state officials summoned by him did not meet him. "Alarming nosediving law and order scenario... I have conveyed my concern of the present alarming scenario to the new Chief Secretary of the state," the Governor tweeted while tagging the official Twitter handle of Mamata Banerjee. He alleged that "targeted political killings" had taken place across Bengal in spite of an alert by the constitutional head. "Am sure Chief Minister would be indicated all these critical aspects that run down democratic governance and lawlessness," he added. Earlier, Dhankhar had called the state Additional Chief Secretary (Home) and the Director General of Police (DGP) to meet him in his office at 10 am on Monday, in the wake of Titagarh councillor Shukla's murder on Sunday. Sources said that none came to meet the Governor on Monday. "Neither ACS Home nor the DGP responded... political violence and targeted killings must stop," the Governor said. However, newly-appointed Chief Secretary Alapan Bandopadhyay met the Governor at Raj Bhavan this morning. Dhankhar also evinced interest to speak to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on the issue. "I would like to speak to you urgently... only silence that speaks volumes," he added. Meanwhile, a dawn-to-dusk shutdown called by the BJP's West Bengal unit was observed in Barrackpore area on Monday in protest against Shukla's killing. A popular public figure in Barrackpore, Shukla had defected from the Trinamool Congress two years ago. He was known to be close to Barrackpore BJP MP Arjun Singh. -- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text TANAISTE Leo Varadkar has said the Government decided to go against public health advice to put the country in Level 5 lock-down because it wasn't "thought through properly". The Coalition this evening said the whole country will be going into Level 3, despite a recommendation from the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) that it should enter the highest level of restrictions. He said representatives of Nphet were unable to provide answers to a string of questions posed by ministers. Read More Mr Varadkar said they had been proposing a so-called "circuit break" which is something being discussed in the UK but has "never been tried anywhere in Europe including in countries that have a much higher instance of the virus than us." He told RTE's Claire Byrne Live that this would have involved a "short sharp strict lockdown for three or four weeks in the hope that it will reduce the transmission of the virus suddenly to allow us to reopen again. " He said: "The problem that we had with the proposal that was put to us today was that we didn't feel it had been thought through properly. Mr Varadkar added: "For example we asked for some comfort that that four weeks might be enough given that it hasn't been enough in Melbourne [and doesn't appear to have been enough in Israel. "They weren't able to give us that comfort." He said representatives of Nphet were also asked what would happen after the four weeks if it didn't work and if the strategy would be abandoned or continue regardless but "they said they hadn't contemplated that. "We asked is it credible to keep the schools open during that four weeks during a strict lockdown. "They thought it was, we weren't so sure." He said: "We asked what them what do we say to the 400,000 people who lose their jobs tomorrow and all those businesses." He said Government would have had to play for what to do with the Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP). "They thought that was a political matter for us." Mr Varadkar added: "That was not the right way to do this, to spring something like that on us on a Sunday night." He said: "What happened in the last couple of days wasn't good for anyone. It wasn't good for Nphet, it isn't good for Government and it really wasn't good for the Irish people many of whom were worried sick today wondering whether they had a job tomorrow, wondering whether they were shuttering their businesses for the last time." He said the Nphet representatives met by Government today weren't able to "to answer very basic questions like the kind of ones that I have just outlined there." He said Ireland already has very strict rules in comparison to other European countries "We're right to have those rules but to go to something experimental like a circuit break lock-down requires proper thought, prior consultation and a plan B if it doesn't work." Mr Varadkar said the Government didn't accept the Nphet advice for three reasons. The first was the wider societal impact of what was being proposed including the job losses, business closures and impact on mental health. The second was the recommendation was not in line with the "stepwise" Living with Covid-19 plan and the triggers for Level 5 "were not met in our view". Thirdly he said Nphet's assessment that hospitals were immediately facing the possibility of being overwhelmed in terms of Intensive Care Units and beds was not shared by the HSE chief executive and the HSE board had not been consulted. Read More Mr Varadkar said there was consultation with Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe and added: "We can't say with certainty that the country can afford a second lock-down." He said the country can borrow cheaply while the deficit and Covid-19 policy was in line with the rest of Europe but this could be at risk if "we went off on a solo run". Asked where this all left the relationship between the Government and Nphet he said they have to "get back on the same page" adding: "We all want to save lives... we all want to do the right thing." He suggested a different approach should have been taken as Nphet considered recommending Level 5 last night and there perhaps should have been contact with the Taoiseach or meetings with Government first. He said Nphet's chairman, Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan, accepted that adding: "think you won't see a repeat of this kind of thing". Mr Varadkar said he "absolutely" has full confidence in Mr Holohan. He said he has confidence in Nphet to dispense public health advice. But he said Government would make the decisions. He said the members of Nphet are "very good people" but they all come from a medical, scientific or civil service background. "None of those people for example would have faced being on the [PUP] yesterday. "None of them would have to tell somebody that they are losing their job and none of them would have had to shutter their business for the last time." He said he wasn't talking about the economy but rather "half a million human beings" that would have been impacted. Mr Varadkar said politicians are the ones that can "see the bigger picture". He added that the country can push the virus back. "It's not inevitable that we're facing into a second lockdown. "But we do have to follow that basic public health advice that we all do agree on." Hanoi has attracted around 25 billion USD in foreign direct investment (FDI) over the last five years. (Photo: kinhtevn.com.vn) Hanoi has attracted around 25 billion USD in foreign direct investment (FDI) over the last five years, with priority given to quality and sustainable development, figures show. The capital city took the lead nationwide in FDI attraction during the 2018 - 2019 period. Notably, it received some 3.28 billion USD in the first nine months of this year, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. It currently has 6,278 FDI projects worth over 47.7 billion USD, of which 28.5 billion USD has been disbursed. According to Director of the municipal Department of Planning and Investment Nguyen Manh Quyen, FDI accounts for 12.8 percent of the citys total investment capital and 10.4 percent of the local budget. Kyle Kelhofer, Country Manager for Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), pointed to Hanois advantages that favour high-tech projects, especially infrastructure and high-quality human resources. Forty-one percent of Japanese firms, meanwhile, have considered expanding their operations in Vietnam over the next three years, according to Takeo Nakajima, Chief Representative of the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) in Hanoi. Hanoi should therefore bring into full play its position as one of the top 10 localities nationwide in the provincial competitiveness index (PCI), he suggested, in order to attract even more Japanese investment. Experts, however, have said the city must address issues such as the slow development of industrial zones and clusters, high land rentals, and small-scale support industry, to attract high-quality FDI projects. According to the municipal Department of Planning and Investment, Hanoi expects to attract 30-40 billion USD in FDI during the 2011-2025 period, of which 20 billion USD - 30 billion USD will be disbursed. The number of businesses using cutting-edge technologies and modern management and environmental protection methods is expected to increase by 50 percent by 2025 compared to 2018, while the rate of locally-made content is to reach 30 percent. To that end, Director of the Department of Planning and Investment Nguyen Manh Quyen said Hanoi will continue to target quality projects, especially with partners such as Japan, the United States and Europe, to step up technology transfer. Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung said that developing digital technology, precision mechanics, automation, and semi-conductor technology will push ahead with Hanois industrialisation and modernisation. He suggested the capital city develop a number of urban economic models, saying it is likely to become the countrys creative centre. It is working to improve its business environment, devise a plan for the support industry by 2025, and complete industrial parks and clusters and transport infrastructure, while building e-government to make business registration and tax declarations and payments easier for enterprises. Phan Duc Hieu, deputy head of the Central Institute for Economic Management at the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI), said Hanoi should employ mechanisms that help promote links between domestic and foreign firms, encourage multi-national groups to invest in the city, and develop creative and innovation centres. Local authorities have regularly held dialogue with investors and helped them seek development opportunities by removing difficulties. The Hanoi: Investment and Development Cooperation conference, which is held annually with the participation of a large number of investors, confirms the city is a safe and attractive investment destination. Secretary of the municipal Party Committee Vuong Dinh Hue pledged at a recent meeting with representatives from the Ministry of Planning and Investment that Hanoi will further create optimal conditions for investors by working with them and sharing their difficulties. Attracting FDI will raise the citys competitiveness and materialise its target of rapid, sustainable, and modern development, he emphasised. LONDON Mulberry Group posted an underlying, pre-tax loss of 14.2 million pounds due to the impact of COVID-19 in fiscal 2020, although trading in the current year has begun to perk up. The underlying figure compares with a profit last year of 1 million pounds. Due to a series of new accounting measures, Mulberry reported an actual pre-tax loss of 47.9 million pounds in 2020, compared with 5 million pounds in the corresponding period last year. More from WWD Revenue in the 52 weeks to March 28 fell 10.2 percent to 149.3 million pounds. The company added that it was already wrestling with a challenging U.K. market even before COVID-19 hit, with local sales down 6 percent before the pandemic struck. During the 12-month period, international retail sales were up 4 percent, while in Asia-Pacific they rose 30 percent. Mulberry said the increase in reported losses in the period were due in large part to the expected impact of COVID-19 on future trading at its Bond Street store. As reported, the company, like so many others in Britain, was forced to lay off staff due to the impact of the virus on demand. In the current fiscal year, it also shut down some manufacturing, and terminated its license for footwear and apparel as part of an overarching restructuring plan. Thierry Andretta, Mulberrys chief executive officer, said the company had faced the most challenging market conditions in its history, but has still managed to make some strategic and operational progress. Prior to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, we were performing well and on-track to record a pre-tax profit in the second half of the year. This was due to progressing our four-pillar growth strategy: Our omni-channel distribution, international development in Asia, a drive for constant innovation, and sustainability. He said that the group had reacted swiftly to the impact of COVID-19, managing capital and reducing costs to ensure it was able to maintain a robust liquidity position. The company also made PPE for NHS hospitals. Story continues At the end of fiscal 2020, the group had net cash of 7.2 million pounds, compared with the previous years 11.1 million pounds, reflecting the increased operating loss, offset by lower working capital and capital expenditure. It has decided not to pay a full-year dividend in order to maintain its liquidity. The company said that since the new fiscal year began six months ago, and with the easing of lockdowns in the U.K. and elsewhere, initial sales are ahead of its early expectations. Group revenue was down 29 percent for the 26 weeks from 29 March to 26 September 2020, compared to the same period last year, with an improving trend since stores have re-opened. However, we cannot escape the reality that British luxury and U.K. cities face a very uncertain future, hampered by necessary, but dramatic, social distancing measures and alarmingly low levels of footfall, as well as the pressures of high rents and business (taxes) and the upcoming changes to tax free shopping, said Andretta. As reported, the British government plans to do away with tax-free shopping altogether, a decision that has rocked high-end British retailers reliant on sales to tourists from around the world. We cannot control external events, but we have a clear strategy and remain confident in the strength of the Mulberry brand, Andretta added. Only 5 percent of foreign invested projects in the last 30 years have used high technology. This is a lesson for Vietnam during the new FDI (foreign direct investment) wave. Vietnam has emerged as an appealing FDI destination. A lot of large multinationals have poured billions dollars worth of capital into Vietnam, while others are considering setting up factories here. However, according to the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI), because of the Covid-19 pandemic, foreign capital flow will see big changes in the time to come. There are five big changes. First, M&A activities have slowed down. Second, the global value chain has been disrupted. Third, investment restructuring has been accelerated. Investors are making investment in accordance with the China + 1 formula. Fourth, investments are redirected into manufacturing and smart technology product supply chains. Fifth, developing countries have become places attracting FDI capital flow. To attract investment, they have to compete with developed countries such as the US, Japan and South Korea, because the governments of the countries are encouraging multinationals to return home. Vietnam will have to compete with many other countries in luring foreign investors in the context of the decline of FDI in the world caused by Covid-19. According to MPI, the 20 biggest foreign investors in Vietnam, which make up 96 percent of total registered FDI, are from some of the countries suffering most from the pandemic. While demand for foreign investment increases as countries need to develop their economies, supply is on the decrease. This could pave the way for low-quality FDI projects to enter Vietnam. According to MPI, the 20 biggest foreign investors in Vietnam, which make up 96 percent of total registered FDI, are from some of the countries suffering most from the pandemic. Chair of the Vietnam Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises (VAFIEs) Nguyen Van Toan noted that foreign investment in the world has actually been decreasing for the last three years. Previously, foreign investment in the US had decreased by $300 billion a year, but now the figure is higher and the decline is expected to continue. The foreign capital has been shifting. But will the capital flow to Vietnam? Toan said. I think the new FDI wave really exists. But there are many obstacles that may prevent it from coming to Vietnam, he said. Wary of old technology Even if the foreign capital flow heads for Vietnam, the country needs to be cautious in receiving it, because low-quality capital risk exists. MPI also warned of the problem. In 2018 and first half of 2019, the number of Chinese registered projects increased sharply, but most of the projects had small scale (91 percent of them had registered capital of less than $10 million) and they were mostly in textile, phone component and steel manufacturing. The figures show the high possibility of Chinese enterprises making investments in Vietnam just to avoid taxes. In a statement to the government for approval of the foreign investment attraction strategy dated August 31, MPI showed that the proportion of foreign invested projects using modern technologies remains modest. Only 5 percent of FIEs utilize high technologies, 80 percent medium technologies and 14 percent low technologies. According to MPI, in the context of the US-China trade disputes, China has had to take landmark steps in applying modern technologies to improve productivity and the competitiveness of the economy. Therefore, ineffective projects using outdated technologies will be weeded out of China and will go to developing countries in the region. In its made in China 2025, China plans to eliminate production lines using outdated technologies. The trade dispute is a reason for China to speed up implementation of the plan. Vietnam needs to become choosier in receiving FDI to avoid possible consequences to the national economy. MPI warns of disguised investments, M&As According to MPI, Covid-19 has turned out to be an opportunity for foreign investors to take over Vietnams enterprises, which have been seriously hurt, at low prices. This may affect national economic security, if Vietnamese enterprises to be taken over by foreign investors operate in key business fields. MPI has found five types of underground investment First, foreign investors, under the name of Vietnamese individuals, establish real estate firms in which they contribute 49 percent of charter capital or less. Second, foreign investors, through Vietnamese individuals and organizations, or use of foreign legal entities, invest in land plots on locations with national security importance, and then buy back the capital contribution from the Vietnamese side. Third, they lend money to Vietnamese individuals to set up businesses, and therefore, determine the operations of the businesses. Fourth, they marry Vietnamese individuals and set up businesses under the names of Vietnamese wives/husbands. However, all activities of the businesses are undertaken by the foreign investors. Fifth, foreign investors come to Vietnam with tourism passports and then they 'stand behind' Vietnamese people to rent workshops in Vietnam and collect farm produce. Luong Bang Vietnam urged to improve infrastructure to attract more FDI Vietnam needed to improve its infrastructure in order to attract more FDI, a webinar heard on Monday. Nvidia has said the launch of its RTX 3070 graphics cards will be delayed by two weeks until 29 October. It said that it is doing this to ensure there is enough stock when the graphics cards are made available to customers. We know this may be disappointing to those eager to purchase a GeForce RTX 3070 as soon as possible, Nvidia said in a press release. However this shift will help our global partners get more graphics cards into the hands of gamers on launch day. The GeForce RTX 3070 is designed to offer a balance between performance and price, and it is the most affordable of the new RTX graphics cards. It offers 8GB of GDDR6 VRAM and 5,888 CUDA cores, and it is priced from R15,499 at Evetech. Expensive in South Africa The new RTX graphics cards including the RTX 3070 are priced significantly more expensively in South Africa when compared to their given US pricing. The recommended US pricing for the RTX 3070 is $499 which translates to R8,200 as of 5 October. This means that the R15,499 South African price is nearly double the US pricing. South African computer store Titan-Ice told MyBroadband that the prices on its website are based on wholesale prices given to them by the local agents of ASUS and MSI. It added that these prices are a starting point only. MSI business development manager for Sub-Saharan Africa Niel Campbell explained that the provided Nvidia prices are based on the RTX series reference designs, while Add-In Boards (AIBs) like MSI add custom features such as cooling solutions and circuit boards. Nvidias reference cards are limited in terms of their features and are only available for purchase directly from Nvidias website. It is extremely difficult for AIBs to get close to those prices. It has been an issue before so Nvidia decided to add starting from to the price tag, said Campbell. Burma Ta'ang Rebels Shell Myanmars Troops in Northern Shan State Tatmadaw personnel providing security in Kutkai in 2019. / Zaw Zaw / The Irrawaddy Naypyitaw A battalion belonging to Myanmars military and a peoples militia office in Shan State was shelled by the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) on Saturday, but no one was injured, military spokesman Major General Zaw Min Tun told The Irrawaddy. The battalion was hit twice and the peoples militia office was attacked with an RPG, said the Tatmadaw (military) spokesman. It has been long since they attacked the battalion and outposts. But they are carrying out attacks these days. We confirm that the attacks were carried out by the TNLA, he said. The TNLA shelled a military battalion from near Namkhaing village around 2km west of Kutkai at 4pm on Saturday. Around 11pm the TNLA and Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) jointly hit the peoples militia office in Tarmoenye with an RPG. No one was injured in the attack, said Maj-Gen Zaw Min Tun. TNLA spokesman Captain Mai Aik Kyaw said the armed group carried out the attacks in retaliation for Tatmadaw attacks on them in the Manbon mountains from Oct. 2-4. They attacked our outposts for three days. There have been around eight clashes this month. It is because they carried out assaults, we have to return fire at the Tarmoenye outpost and Kutkai Battalion 45 with heavy guns. It was done as a warning for military purposes, said Capt. Mai Aik Kyaw. According to the TNLA, Myanmars military attacked the armed group in the Manbon mountains in Kutkai Township and its outpost in Howeik village in Mogoke Township. And there were four separate clashes near Manbon village. There were five clashes in September. In October, after the military declared a [unilateral] ceasefire, there have been clashes for two consecutive days around that area, said Capt. Mai Aik Kyaw. Pastor Sai Tu, who is helping internally displaced people (IDPs) from Kutkai, said he heard gunfire in Kutkai on Saturday and the military returned fire at around 3.30pm the same day. IDPs have not been able to return to their homes in this area. There are two IDP camps opened by the Kachin Baptist Convention in Kutkai. IPDs have been there since 2012, he said. The TNLA, MNDAA and Arakan Army are in the so-called Brotherhood Alliance which has organized several attacks on government troops. In August last year, they attacked the Defense Services Technological Academy and three other locations in Mandalay Regions Pyin Oo Lwin Township, including a tollgate installed with an X-ray machine to prevent drug trafficking. They also blew up a bridge on the main highway carrying goods to the Chinese border. China has so far unsuccessfully attempted to mediate between Myanmars military and the Brotherhood Alliance. The TNLA has demanded that Myanmars military stop operations and war crimes in Rakhine, Kokang and Palaung ethnic areas before it joins peace talks. Translated from Burmese by Thet Ko Ko You may also like these stories: Rakhine State IDPs Exceed 36,000 Since August: Myanmar NGO Myanmars Military Blames Karen National Union for Soldier Deaths Bangladesh Deploys Troops on Myanmars Border Financial caregiving burden on women is particularly high, causing current and future loss of income, retirement savings MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ - With an estimated 5.8 million Americans living with Alzheimer's, dementia or other memory disorders, a figure that is expected to double by 2040 with the aging population, new research from RBC Wealth Management U.S. and Aon uncovers just how financially devastating cognitive decline can be on both individuals and families even those with higher net worth. The survey of 1,000 mass affluent and high-net-worth cognitive decline caregivers in the United States revealed that the overall lifetime cost of care for dementia can be financially devastating, often exceeding $750,000 in direct and indirect expenses. The price tag on the disease is further escalated by the propensity of individuals with dementia to make poor financial decisions that can further impair their finances. In fact, 80% of survey respondents reported some level of financial mismanagement by the individual they care for. The study also found that most of the caregiving responsibility falls on female shoulders, and women tend to make financial sacrifices earlier than men, such as reducing work hours or leaving the workforce entirely, which can have a lasting impact on their own wealth. "Mismanaging daily finances is often the first place you see signs of cognitive decline, which is just the beginning of the financial journey with this progressive disease," said Angie O'Leary, Head of Wealth Planning for RBC Wealth Management. "One of the key reasons we commissioned this research was to identify additional ways financial advisors can support clients and caregivers who are confronting cognitive decline. We're all good at planning for things like college and vacations, but most investors aren't planning for something like a dementia diagnosis. Advisors and clients need to understand the total impact." Key findings from the research are outlined in a new RBC Wealth Insight report and in a new content series on cognitive decline, available here. Additional insights from the report include: Expenses accumulate, and increase with time Depending on when someone with cognitive decline is diagnosed, caring for that person can last from five to 15 years, on average, and can cumulatively cost families hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to the study. There are also progressive expenses for caregivers. According to RBC and Aon's research, caregivers make a financial contribution of nearly $750 per month, on average, to support daily expenses or other needs. By the time someone reaches a severe decline, monthly expenses are estimated at $1,200 per month. "A dementia diagnosis can be financially devastating, as Medicare and traditional insurance do not cover daily care costs," O'Leary said. "And most families don't realize you need to completely drawdown your personal wealth before there is any government aid." Financial mismanagement a top risk Another key risk and concern for a majority of caregiver respondents is financial mismanagement. According to the research, 80% of people affected by dementia have at some point experienced financial mismanagement. Unpaid bills, unusual spending, unopened statements, and repeat calls to advisors over the same concern can all be early warning signs and even signs of financial fraud or abuse. "Advisors play an important role in helping to identify those early warning signs of dementia," said Tara Ambrose, Manager of Senior & Vulnerable Client Initiatives at RBC Wealth Management. "They can work with families to take early steps to protect finances and help prevent fraud and financial abuse." Caregiving and financial burden primarily impacts women The study also found that the responsibility of caregiving tends to fall on women, who are more likely to feel the impact of caregiving on their work at an earlier point than men. Female caregivers typically begin caregiving at an earlier stage in the diagnosis than men and spend more time on average caring for someone suffering cognitive decline. The sacrifices female caregivers make to care for loved ones suffering cognitive decline often impact career trajectories more than their male counterparts, with 44% adjusting their work patterns, including withdrawing from the labor force or by taking early retirement. And for one in eight female caregivers, the time commitment is 160 hours a month or more, which is equivalent to a full-time job, unpaid. These reduced hours and job leaves are costing women caregivers approximately $35,000 in annual income. "A big obstacle for women to continue in the workforce is this balance on the home front," O'Leary added. "Often women are 'sandwiched' between child and elder care and have to take a gap in their career. Not only is there a financial loss, but the sacrifice is also keeping them from reaching parity in the workplace." That loss of income has a multiplier effect, O'Leary said. Reducing hours or leaving the workforce to care for a loved one doesn't only impact a caregiver's current income, but it can also reduce future Social Security benefits, 401(k) contributions and employer retirement fund matches. Financial guidance biggest need for caregivers With the rising costs, reduction in earnings, pressures of caregiving and risks for financial mismanagement, access to a financial advisor ranked as a top resource among those surveyed especially for those in the "sandwich" generation. "There are clear opportunities to better support these caregivers, not just through more comprehensive financial guidance but also by facilitating access to tools and resources that reduce the financial risks to family wealth," O'Leary added. "This research will help fortify the importance of having planning conversations between our advisors and clients that will help families better navigate this terrible disease one with incredible financial impact and risk." More information on the research and a full report is available here. Click here for additional information on the financial impact of cognitive decline. About the research Commissioned by RBC Wealth Management U.S. and managed by Aon, the study was conducted between November and December 2019 via online survey and focused on 1,000 mass affluent and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in the United States. It included current and former caregivers of family members and non-family members experiencing cognitive decline or dementia, but excluded professional caregivers. The study also included qualitative in-depth interviews with financial advisors and executives who have clients and/or family members who have dealt with, or are currently dealing with, cognitive decline or dementia. About RBC Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 86,000+ employees who bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada's biggest bank, and one of the largest in the world based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our 17 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 34 other countries. Learn more at rbc.com . We are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-social-impact . About RBC Wealth Management U.S. In the United States, RBC Wealth Management operates as a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC. Founded in 1909, RBC Capital Markets, LLC. is a member of the New York Stock Exchange, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the Securities Investor Protection Corporation, and other major securities exchanges. RBC Wealth Management has $414 billion in total client assets with more than 2,000 financial advisors operating in 179 locations in 42 states. SOURCE RBC Wealth Management - U.S. Related Links http://www.rbc.com Advertisement Britain today recorded another 12,594 Covid-19 cases as official statistics show the number of daily infections has more than tripled in a week. Department of Health bosses also posted 19 more coronavirus deaths across the UK but none were recorded in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. For comparison, just 4,044 infections and 13 laboratory-confirmed fatalities were added to the government's toll last Monday. But the number of new daily cases and deaths is still nowhere near the levels seen during the darkest days of the pandemic in the spring. Top scientists estimate at least 100,000 Brits were catching the illness each day in March but No10's lacklustre testing programme meant millions of cases were never spotted. And more than 1,000 deaths were announced on at least nine occasions in April. Hospital admissions are continuing to rise and are now at the highest levels since June. Some 386 newly-infected patients in England required NHS care on October 3 but the figure was in the region of 3,000 at the end of March and beginning of April. It comes after the UK yesterday recorded 22,000 positive tests because of an Excel bungle that led to thousands of cases diagnosed over the last week being lost in government systems. Shame-faced Matt Hancock today faced the wrath of MPs as he admitted the contact tracing of 16,000 confirmed coronavirus cases was delayed for days because of the blunder. The Health Secretary told the House of Commons that the extraordinary episode 'should never have happened' and an investigation was being carried out into how thousands of cases dropped out of the system. But he did not offer an apology, and tried to soothe the situation by insisting the error had not warped judgements on local lockdowns or the government's overall assessment of Britain's outbreak. In other developments today: Manchester now has the highest seven-day case rate in England recording almost 500 cases per 100,000 people last week, according to an updated analysis of government figures; Ministers are putting the finishing touches to a new traffic-light system which could pave the way for harsher restrictions such as the closure of all pubs in a certain area; The head of a teaching union warned that A-Level and GCSE exams would have to be simplified next summer because it was unfair to test pupils on subjects they had missed while schools were closed by coronavirus; Rishi Sunak revealed he is 'frustrated' by the 10pm pubs curfew and has 'no regrets' about Eat Out to Help Out despite Boris Johnson admitting it might have fueled Covid cases; Trials of an air passenger testing regime are expected to begin within weeks in a victory for the Mail's Get Britain Flying campaign; Health minister Lord Bethell claimed Britain will look back at its Covid-19 response 'like the Olympics' and be 'extremely proud'. Counted by the date specimens were collected, rather than the date the government published them, the UK had 11,404 cases on September 30, almost as many as were reported in the next two days combined What Covid-19 numbers SHOULD have said An Excel bungle that led to thousands of cases being lost in government systems masked daily cases in the UK hitting 11,000. A clearer picture of the country's outbreak has emerged after some 16,000 confirmed infections had to be added to the daily totals running back more than a week. Counted by the date specimens were collected, rather than the date the government published them, the UK had 11,404 cases on September 30. And the daily number has not been below 6,000 since September 21. The extraordinary meltdown was caused by an Excel spreadsheet containing lab results reaching its maxium size, and failing to update. Some 15,841 cases between September 25 and October 2 were not uploaded to the government dashboard. As well as underestimating the scale of the outbreak in the UK, critically the details were not passed to contact tracers, meaning people exposed to the virus were not tracked down. Boris Johnson was unable even to say how many people were being contact traced in the wake of the bungle - although based on the previous average number of contacts reported by each infected person, it will be over 50,000. But he scrambled to play down concerns that ministers have been making pivotal decisions on lockdown without accurate information, saying the outbreak was still in line with where its experts thought. The shambolic situation sparked an immediate backlash against PHE - which is already set to be abolished and replaced by the government - with claims 'everything it touches turns to sh**'. But the body hit back by pointing the finger at the Test & Trace operation, run by Baroness Dido Harding. 'We report the data when they send it. We didn't get it,' one official told Sky News. Meanwhile, Health Secretary Matt Hancock is expected to hold an emergency meeting with angry local mayors about the situation, before what promises to be a bruising appearance in the Commons this evening. The technical issue has now been resolved by splitting the Excel files into batches. Advertisement Deaths can vary day-by-day and are normally lower on Sundays and Mondays because of a recording lag at the weekend just 33 were announced yesterday compared to the rolling seven-day average of 52. When taking into account the rolling-average, the trend has risen upwards consistently for the past few weeks. It stood at 30 last Sunday, 21 on September 20 and 11 on September 13. The most up-to-date government coronavirus death toll stands at 42,350. It takes into account victims who have died within 28 days of testing positive for the life-threatening infection. The deaths data does not represent how many Covid-19 patients died within the last 24 hours. It is only how many fatalities have been reported and registered with the authorities. And the figure does not always match updates provided by the home nations. Department of Health officials work off a different time cut-off, meaning daily updates from Scotland and Northern Ireland are out of sync. The toll announced by NHS England every day, which only takes into account fatalities in hospitals, doesn't always match up with the DH figures because they work off a different recording system. For instance, some deaths announced by NHS England bosses will have already been counted by the Department of Health, which records fatalities 'as soon as they are available'. The government's official toll is different to the figures compiled by the Office for National Statistics, which includes suspected fatalities where coronavirus was mentioned on a death certificate and not just lab-confirmed ones. The ONS, and the statistical bodies of Scotland and Northern Ireland, estimate around 57,000 people across the UK have died of suspected or confirmed Covid-19 this year. And despite the number of deaths being announced each day has risen, Covid-19 fatalities declared each day by the Department of Health are still nowhere near where they were at the start of the pandemic. They have tumbled since the peak in April when more than 1,000 people died on some days and hospitals were focusing their attention on treating thousands of Covid-19 patients. Currently the seven-day rolling average of new hospital admissions in England is 310. The figure has been steadily rising since late August, but is still a far cry from the 2,700 or so admitted each day in the first week of April. Confirmed Covid-19 cases are also nowhere near levels witnessed during the darkest weeks of the pandemic in March and April, when at least 100,000 Britons were estimated to be catching the virus every day. Every London borough saw a spike in coronavirus cases last week except Camden Public Health England data shows how the weekly infection rate the amount of Covid-19 cases diagnosed per 100,000 people in a week is rising quickest in Richmond upon Thames, rising by 153.6 per cent in a week. It has dropped in Camden by around 70 per cent Coronavirus cases are soaring in every part of London except Camden, according to official data. The capital city so far seems to have been spared the worst of Britain's second wave of Covid-19, which has been concentrated in the north of England. But signs are emerging that the virus is rebounding in London, with some boroughs seeing the ratio of positive tests per person more than double in seven days. Public Health England has put every borough of the city on its watchlist as an area of 'concern', meaning it will be monitored closely in the coming days and weeks. The biggest surge was seen in the leafy suburb of Richmond upon Thames, where cases rose by 154 per cent between September 20 and 27. This happened despite the numbers of tests going down, suggesting it represents a genuine increase. Although, PHE statistics show not a single borough has a rate higher than England's average weekly infection rate of 59 cases per 100,000 people. London's infection rate stands at 33.6, on average a figure which has risen 28 per cent in a week. Meanwhile, Camden was the only part of the city to see cases decline in the latter half of September, with the infection rate dropping by 70 per cent. This happened despite more tests being done the opposite situation to Richmond's. Concerns about Covid-19 spreading out of control in the capital again are likely to be discussed at a meeting later this week, as health bosses will consider how a city-wide lockdown could work if one is needed. Council leaders will meet tomorrow to decide whether to ask the Government for more help in the city. London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, warns the city is at a dangerous 'tipping point' with the virus and warned tighter social distancing rules could be on the way. The city home to more than nine million people currently abides only by national restrictions. Advertisement MANCHESTER IS ENGLAND'S COVID-19 HOTSPOT Public Health England's most recently weekly update on Friday shows only nine local authorities of 149 in England saw their infection rates drop last week. But PHE's computer error means infection rates may be higher in reality Manchester is now England's Covid-19 capital with an infection rate higher than any other authority in England, according to official data. A total of 2,740 positive coronavirus tests were recorded across the city in the week to October 1 the equivalent of 495.6 cases per 100,000 people, or one for every 200 people. For comparison, its infection rate stood at 223.2 the week before, according to a Press Association analysis of updated figures. Manchester, Newcastle and Liverpool have also seen their infection rates soar overnight after the addition of 16,000 nationwide cases to the UK's dashboard, which were missed due to a 'technical glitch'. The updated figures were put together by PA and are drastically higher than those given by Public Health England in its 'Situation Report' published last Friday, which used data up to September 27. The most up-to-date PHE report revealed Newcastle upon Tyne had the highest infection rate in the country, at 250 cases per 100,000. Second was Knowsley (246.7), followed by Liverpool (239.3) and Manchester (200) considerably lower than that reported by PA today, which uses data in the week up to October 1. PHE's report shows only nine local authorities of 149 in England saw their infection rates drop last week. But the computer error means infection rates may be higher in reality. Advertisement Number 10's lacklustre testing policy meant millions of cases were never counted, but researchers tracking the outbreak have only ever been able to make an estimate based on back-tracking all the available data on deaths, cases and hospital admissions. Predictions now say that between 8,400 and 20,000 people are being infected each day. The former figure is from ONS and the latter comes from academics at King's College London. Data released last week suggested Britain's outbreak is no longer spiralling into another crisis, despite warnings from Sir Patrick Vallance and Professor Chris Whitty that the UK was hurtling towards 50,000 new infections a day by mid-October. Promising statistics from the government-funded REACT-1 study, carried out by Imperial College London academics at the end of September suggested the R rate plunged back down to 1.1 from 1.7. The report, based on tens of thousands of random swab tests, also claimed cases are rising less steeply than they were a few weeks ago. Separate estimates from King's College London's Covid Symptom Study suggested that the rise in daily new cases was only 23 per cent higher than last week, after it more than doubled in the week before. But efforts to remain on top of the coronavirus outbreak in Britain may have been seriously hampered this week, after a computer glitch saw thousands of cases left off the tally. Some 22,961 cases of coronavirus were reported on Sunday and 12,872 reported on Saturday. This compares with around 7,000 cases reported in the four previous days. Officials said the data published on October 3 and 4 are 'artificially high' because they include confirmed cases from as far back as September 25, but mostly in the past few days. For example, 4,786 cases which were due to be reported on October 2 were not included in the daily total on the dashboard that day, when the figure was given as 6,968. Public Health England last night admitted nearly 16,000 cases had been missed off its dashboard system in the space of a week, taking the total number of cases in the UK to 502,978. Officials said the outstanding cases were transferred to NHS Test and Trace 'immediately' after the issue was resolved and thanked contact tracers for their extra efforts over the weekend to clear the backlog. The problems are believed to have arisen when labs sent in their results using CSV files, which have no limits on size. But PHE then imported the results into Excel, where documents have a limit of just over a million lines. The agency said in a statement that all those missing cases had been informed that they had the virus, as normal. But tens of thousands of Britons have been 'put at risk' because of the delay in cases being passed on to NHS Track and Trace. Boris Johnson was unable even to say how many people were being contact traced in the wake of the bungle - although based on the previous average number of contacts reported by each infected person, it will be over 50,000. But he scrambled to play down concerns that ministers have been making pivotal decisions on lockdown without accurate information, saying the outbreak was still in line with where its experts thought. Dr Duncan Robertson, lecturer in management sciences and analytics at Loughborough University and fellow of St Catherine's College, Oxford, said the error was 'an absolute scandal'. He tweeted: 'These individuals will not have had their contacts identified and those contacts may have become infectious and may have been spreading the virus.' Paul Hunter, professor of health protection at the University of East Anglia, said 'there will be occasional glitches' in a system this size, but added: 'I think the thing that surprised me was the size of it almost 16,000 results going missing over the course of a week is quite alarming, I think.' Professor Hunter told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'If you're going to do your contact tracing, there is a very short timeframe in which you can do it effectively. 'And the reason is that we know now that this infection is most infectious at around the time people develop symptoms so very early on in the illness and if you're going to therefore identify contacts it really needs to be done within a matter of a day or so if you're going to actually have any effect.' Rowland Kao, professor of veterinary epidemiology and data science at the University of Edinburgh, said the contacts of those affected will 'have already contributed extra infections which we shall see over the coming week or so'. Shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth said the error was 'shambolic', adding that 'people across the country will be understandably alarmed.' According to data published on Sunday night, the weekly rate of new Covid-19 cases has soared in dozens of areas of England, following the addition of nearly 16,000 cases that had previously been unreported nationwide. Manchester now has the highest rate in England, with 2,740 cases recorded in the seven days to October 1. It's the equivalent of 495.6 cases per 100,000 people, more than double the 223.2 in the previous week. Liverpool has the second highest rate, up from 287.1 to 456.4, with 2,273 new cases. Knowsley is in third place, up from 300.3 to 452.1, with 682 new cases. Other areas recording sharp increases include Newcastle upon Tyne (up from 256.6 to 399.6, with 1,210 new cases); Nottingham (up from 52.0 to 283.9, with 945 new cases); Leeds (up from 138.8 to 274.5, with 2,177 new cases); and Sheffield (up from 91.8 to 233.1, with 1,363 new cases). It is not clear if the latest increase in cases will trigger further government intervention. Mr Johnson said the updated figures meant that the prevalence of the virus was where experts had expected it to be and it would soon be apparent if extra restrictions were having the intended impact. 'The incidence that we are seeing in the cases corresponds to pretty much where we thought we were,' he said. 'And, to be frank, I think that the slightly lower numbers that we'd seen, you know, didn't really reflect where we thought the disease was likely to go, so I think these numbers are realistic.' - Maina Kageni was working at Nation FM at the time and he got a call for a meeting to join Kiss FM - The radio presenter said he lied about being paid KSh 180k by Nation and was offered a deal worth KSh 380k which he could not refuse - Maina disclosed that he never stepped into college and had worked in the UK driving trucks before coming back home PAY ATTENTION: Help us change more lives, join TUKO.co.kes Patreon programme- https://www.patreon.com/tuko Renowned media personality Maina Kageni has disclosed that his first salary at Radio Africa owned Kiss 100 FM was a cool KSh 380,000. Maina Kageni has disclosed stories about his life that are not known to many Photo: mainawakageni Source: Instagram In an Interview with Churchill Dambuki on the latest episode of The Journey series, the Classic FM presenter got candid revealing details about his life that were alien to many. Maina revealed that after high school he went to study in the UK but never got into a classroom even after registering for college. He then got a truck driving job and started making good money which helped him to join the car export business by buying and selling cars to Kenyans. After a certain period, he got tired of being in the UK because of the cold and came back home. He then applied for a voice-over job which suddenly led to his role as a radio presenter. Maina started off at Capital then went on to be a swing presenter at Nation FM which was starting out. "Nation FM was starting, I moved to Nation FM. I used to be very mechanical and I was told 'be Kenyan.' one day there was a riot, and I had brought a new car. When the University of Nairobi students rioted they used to come to Nation and they smashed my car. That is the day I flipped and my boss said 'that is what I need on radio,'" he said. PAY ATTENTION: Click 'See First' under 'Follow' Tab to see Tuko.co.ke news on your FB feed After a while, Maina got a call from Patrick Kwako who asked to meet him at a Nairobi restaurant and offered Maina the big switch. "He asked me how much are you being paid, I told him the guys were paying me KSh 180k. I was being paid KSh 60,000. He then told me he was going to start me off at KSh 380,000. You know you pretended not to look desperate, so I told him to give me time to think," he added. Maina said he walked diligently but when he got outside he ran to Nation FM and told them the money he had been offered and they humbly gave him their blessings. He then went on to become one of the best voices in Kenya and says he loved his time at Kiss but felt a challenge because everyone said his success was because of Kiss 100. That is when he decided to move to sister radio station Classic which he noted was the greatest experience ever watching it grow into the giant it is today. Maina definitely loves his job and said he would do the same thing again if he got a chance. The radio presenter recently showed his love for music while dancing to Diamond's latest hit Che, featuring Zuchu. Diamond shared the video on his Instagram page as he showed his excitement at watching a Kenyan celeb appreciate his craft. Maina was definitely enjoying the song while dancing from his seat and shaking his head - with a huge smile on his face like a dad celebrating at a wedding after his son-in-law cleared the dowry. His antics could only mean that he had found his new 'love' and would be rocking 24/7 on his huge BMW X6. Diamond captioned the video: "Aaaki Maina! My brother from another mother." With laugh emoticons to show his delight. Do you have a groundbreaking story you would like us to publish? Please reach us through news@tuko.co.ke or WhatsApp: 0732482690. Contact Tuko.co.ke instantly. Heroine ruined my life and put my children at risk - Whitney Wanjiku | Tuko TV Source: TUKO.co.ke Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 5) A lawmaker downplayed fears on the growing militarization of China over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), claiming that the Philippines will eventually get its "day of reckoning" when it enforces its territorial claims. During the plenary deliberation on the buget of the Office of the President on Monday, Rep. Eric Yap, chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, said there is nothing to worry about the structures being built by China over the disputed territory. "Kung ang isang malaking puwersa merong military na pinalibutan sa ating lupa, nagtayo sila ng structure sa lupa kung saan tayo ay may claim. Definitely po, pag tayo ay nanalo sa korte, yung kanilang itinayo mapupunta po sa atin iyon dahil atin ang lupa," said Yap, a staunch ally of President Rodrigo Duterte. [Translation: If a huge force allows its military to encroach in our land, and they build structures on that land that we claim, definitely, when we win in court, what they built will definitely go to us because that land is ours.] He added: "Wag po tayong matakot pag nagtayo sila ng structure, dahil bandang huli, kapag na-enforce na natin ang ating karapatan, dumating na ang ating day of reckoning, yung mga structure na iyon ay mapupunta rin sa atin iyon." [Translation: Let us not be afraid when they build a structure because in the end, when we enforce our rights and our day of reckoning comes, those structures will eventually go to us.] Yap was addressing the queries of Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas on possible concrete actions taken by Duterte's office following his speech before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) last month. She also asked whether the administration took effort in looking into the United States-blacklisted Chinese companies which have been involved in the militarization of the West Philippine Sea. In the committee level a few weeks back, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea already reasoned that there's no reason for the Philippines to be involved in the issue due to certain economic implications. However, he admitted that the agency is not aware of such companies despite its hefty intelligence funds over the past years. Public officials and foreign relations experts earlier urged Duterte to turn his UNGA speech into reality, after asserting the Philippines' legal victory over the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling. Retired Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio previously warned that China's opportunism and increased presence in the disputed waters need a strong pushback before it is too late. "If we do not do that, we can see more Chinese warships, service ships moving towards Reed Bank or even Malampaya," Carpio said. "This is really an escalation and we should take this very seriously." The tribunal ruled that there was no legal basis for China to claim historic rights over most of the South China Sea using its "nine-dash line" assertion. It also recognized Philippine sovereign rights in marine features within its exclusive economic zone and said Beijing violated those rights by interfering with fishing and petroleum exploration as well as constructing artificial islands. China, however, has repeatedly refused to recognize the ruling. Mega food park in Kerala takes number of food parks nationwide to 20 The centre on Thursday announced the setting up of Kerala's first and the nation's twentieth mega food park in Palakkad district of Kerala, as the government sees food processing as one of the major sectors of AatmaNirbhar Bharat initiative. Union minister for food processing industries, agriculture and farmers welfare, rural development and panchayati raj Narendra Singh Tomar and Kerala chief minister Pinarai Vijayan inaugurated Keralas first food park in a virtual ceremony on Thursday. The project will prove to be a milestone in the development of the food processing sector in Kerala and give impetus to industrialisation in the state, Tomar said. It will leverage an additional investment of about Rs250 crore in 25-30 food processing units in the park and would eventually lead to a turnover of about Rs450-500 crore annually. The park will also provide direct and indirect employment to 5,000 persons and benefit about 25,000 farmers in the CPC and PPC catchment areas, Tomar said. The government has made food processing a major-thrust area of Atma Nirbhar Bharat. Twenty mega food parks in the country have been opened in collaboration with the centre, seventeen other projects have also been approved, including a park in the Alleppey district of Kerala. Tomar said that we are proud of the farmers of our country and, due to their hard work, the country has sufficient stock of food grains, the needs of the countrymen are being fulfilled, food grains are in surplus. He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is continuously working to fill the gaps in the agriculture sector. He said an Agri Infra Fund of Rs one lakh crore has been announced, while Kisan Rail has been started as per the budget announcement. Tomar said there is more potential in the export of value-added goods, which will not only earn foreign exchange but will also create employment opportunities in the domestic market. Further, as part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign, the centre has launched a new scheme - PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME). Minister of state for food processing industries Teli said the facilities created in the park will not only reduce wastage of agricultural produce but will also ensure value addition. With this, farmers will get better prices of their agriproducts and their income will also increase. He added that this will provide processing opportunities to farmers, self-help groups, and micro-entrepreneurs and create more employment opportunities in the surrounding areas. US President Donald Trump on Sunday left Walter Reed National Military Medical Center where he is being treated for COVID-19 briefly. He waved at his supporters who had gathered outside the hospital to pray and wish for his swift recovery. United States President Donald Trump on Sunday left the hospital briefly to greet his supporters who were gathered outside the hospital where he was being treated for Covid-19. He waved at his supporters from inside his bulletproof SUV. President Donald Trump waved at his supporters from his car outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center where he is being treated for COVID-19. Donald Trump and the First Lady of the United States Melania Trump, both are being treated here for contracting Covid-19. A prayer vigil was held on Sunday evening for President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump by the Indian American community to wish them a speedy recovery. His supporters not only gathered outside the hospital but also showed support virtually from cities across the United States. Also read: Imran Khan turns to recommend books while Pakistan bears brunt of increasing human rights violations #WATCH | US: President Donald Trump waves at supporters from his car outside Walter Reed National Military Medical Center where he is being treated for COVID-19. pic.twitter.com/p5Fp48C9RB ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2020 Also read: US worried over Cambodian naval base hosting Chinese military assets amid Beijing-backed expansion Nisha Sharma, Congressional candidate from California District 11 said that she would like to thank the people of her community who were there at the Walter Reed hospital, praying for President Trump and the First Lady. She added that despite being diagnosed with COVID-19, President and his supporters have done more than what Biden had done in 47 years. Al Mason, co-chair of Trump Victory Indian-American Finance Committee said to ANI that President Trump was the best Commander-in-Chief who cares for all Americans All their good wishes and prayers would help Potus and the first lady recover swiftly from this China virus, no virus or anyone can knock POTUS down. The community members chanted mantras and echoed the sound of the conch shell or Shankha for the speedy recovery of President Trump and the First Lady. Sentinels of Dharma, a Hindu American organization hosted the event. During the prayer meeting, Indian Americans also endorsed President Trump in his re-election bid and reached out to other community members all over the country to campaign in his favour. President Trump could be released from the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center as soon as Monday, his medical team said in an update on Sunday to members of the White House press pool, as the president continues his treatment on dexamethasone and Remdesivir to fight coronavirus. Dr. Sean Conley said Trump has experienced two episodes of transient drops in oxygen levels. From Thursday into Friday morning, Conley said Trump was doing well with mild symptoms and oxygen levels in the high 90s. By later Friday morning, the president had a high fever and his oxygen levels began dipping below 94 per cent. President Trump was admitted to Walter Reed on Friday after he announced that he and the First Lady had tested positive for the coronavirus. Dozens of people stood outside the hospital waving Trump 2020 flags and holding signs since President Trump was admitted. American flags and flowers were piling up on the sign outside the hospital facility. Trump thanked his supporters Sunday morning on Twitter. Also read: US President Donald Trump says, will be back soon, next few days will be real test The battle against Covid-19 continues in Ireland and around the world, and our industry is mindful of the work of the Government and others to help tackle the virus, while protecting the economy. Ahead of Budget 2021, we are calling for serious consideration to be given to measures that can support the drinks industry, and the wider hospitality sector, which has been hit and hit hard. As an industry, we are extremely concerned at the current approach of disproportionately targeting the hospitality sector, particularly pubs, in the fight against Covid-19. The re-closure of hospitality venues is emerging as a primary strategy to address the spread of the virus. This is out of sync and way more restrictive than other EU countries. The lesson of other countries is that a different approach is possible and should be considered an approach that protects our health but also enables the hospitality and experience economy to operate. Ireland If the sector continues to be targeted, it will have dire consequences for jobs and the economy. The hospitality and broader experience sector are a key element of our economic and social life in. The sector contributes 4.5bn in wages, salaries, and employment taxes every year. More than 330,000 people are either employed directly or supported directly by demand from the sector. It is important to note that it is an industry that reaches well beyond those who are directly employed, and touches every city, town, village, and rural community, with a far-reaching supply chain. It encompasses everything from the rich provenance of our food in our restaurants, sophisticated hotels that operate to the highest international standards, world-class events, our pubs which are known and loved by national and international visitors alike, to unique experiences such as whiskey tasting in distilleries. From the point of view of the drinks industry, suppliers are of course heavily reliant on a vibrant and active hospitality sector. The closure has been made worse by the stop and start approach being taken, which gives the hospitality venues and its suppliers very little notice ahead of having to shut down, or ordered not to reopen, which has happened time and time again. Greater engagement with the sector and sufficient advance notice must be given in the future for any further closures Drinks suppliers have invested heavily in production ahead of each planned reopening, brewing beer and cider, delivering kegs, and cleaning lines. Each time these venues are closed, suppliers have been bearing the full expense, in collecting and disposing of unused kegs, as beer and cider, in particular, do not keep. Of course, the impact of unused stock extends beyond just drink suppliers. Considering the wider food supply chain, it also includes fish, meat, fresh fruit and vegetables, and much more. Over 60m worth of stock has been written off by drinks and hospitality businesses, as a result of the Governments stop-start approach to reopening the sector so far. Patricia Callan, Drinks Ireland director, says the sector can play a vital role in the economic recovery that will follow this pandemic. Greater engagement with the sector and sufficient advance notice must be given in the future for any further closures. As this has happened on multiple occasions, targeted financial supports for the hospitality/supply sector to specifically compensate for the losses associated with perishable products are also required. Looking at the budget, in particular, a safe and sustainable reopening will not be enough. Recovery of the drinks and hospitality industry will be a long process, and the Government needs to think long term, with a support strategy and package of practical measures. The Government must look at the current constraints that exist within the sector, including the excessively high tax rates that are imposed on the industry. A 15% reduction in Irelands excise tax rate on alcohol, which is currently the second-highest in the EU, will support recovery in the wider drinks and hospitality sector. It will redirect money back to over 20,000 business owners in the sector, where it can be reinvested to support the trade as they operate in the Covid-19 environment with reduced capacity, reduced demand, and additional restrictions on how they operate. The hospitality and experience sectors are regulated environments and have proven to be responsible players throughout the crisis. The sector, which is vital to the Irish economy, can play a crucial role in the economic recovery which will follow this pandemic, as it did during the recovery of the last economic crisis when it accounted for one in every seven jobs created. But it needs to be supported by the Government now. - Patricia Callan is director of industry representative group Drinks Ireland Read More Drinks industry calls for VAT rate to be temporarily cut QUINCY, Mass., Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Retail Business Services, the services company of Ahold Delhaize USA, named start-up Evergreens Farms winner of its supply chain innovation pitch competition. Evergreens and four other start-ups participated in the Supply Chain Seed start-up immersion program hosted by Retail Business Services and Venture Cafe. Over 10 weeks, start-ups worked with mentors to increase their retail industry IQ and built critical relationships with Ahold Delhaize USA companies. The program culminated in a pitch competition, where Evergreens emerged as the start-up with the most viable technology, according to a panel of retail and venture capital experts. New ideas and innovations are important to the supply chain industry now more than ever in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, said Chris Lewis, EVP of Supply Chain at Retail Business Services, who provided the keynote address at the pitch event. We were inspired by each of these companies that presented compelling technologies for the future of supply chain, and we congratulate Evergreens Farms on this recognition. Evergreens Farms, led by Ahmad Zameli, pitched a solution to provide vertical farming technology to produce anywhere, regardless of climate and deliver consistently high-quality product year-round. The supply chain seed program was incredibly helpful in accelerating our business forward in our path to commercialization, said Zameli. The relationships we have forged with the different Ahold Delhaize USA companies and the conversations we had helped us refine our targeting and deployment strategy, as well as forge key relationships with leaders in the industry. The progress we made over the past 10 weeks fast-tracked our path to bringing safe, fresh, locally produced fruits and vegetables to the New England grocery market and beyond! We thoroughly enjoyed working with the start-ups this year, added Dan Covert, director of Supply Chain Innovation for Retail Business Services. Were looking forward to continuing the program next year and exploring more innovative ideas for the supply chain we support and the grocery retail brands it serves. The other finalists in the Supply Chain Seed Program were: End2End Solutions, led by Robert Steward, which provides a set of Internet of Things solutions and services designed to improve supply chain visibility by addressing quality, compliance, security, logistics and performance management. GoWheels!, led by William Bateman, is developing a radically redesigned wheel with a replaceable tire for carts used in distribution and transportation centers. NanoThings, led by Tim Williams, is focusing on a cold-chain traceability solution by utilizing Internet of Things technology from source to store. Produce Pics, led by Sridhar Iyer, is providing a computer vision-based application for reducing food waste in supply chain. About Retail Business Services Retail Business Services, LLC, is the services company of Ahold Delhaize USA, currently providing services to five East Coast grocery brands, including Food Lion, The GIANT Company, Giant Food, Hannaford and Stop & Shop. Retail Business Services leverages the scale of the local brands to drive synergies and provides industry-leading expertise, insights and analytics to local brands to support their strategies with services including Information Technology, Merchandising, Marketing & Sourcing Services, Private Brand Products, Pharmacy Services, Not for Resale, Store Services, Financial Services, Legal Services, Communications, Supply Chain and People Systems and Services. For more information, visit www.retailbusinessservices.com . MEDIA CONTACTS: Christy Phillips-Brown 704-310-2221 Erin DeWaters 704-310-3884 During the first phase of the Bihar elections, polls will be conducted in 16 districts. The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) released its first list of candidates for the Bihar assembly elections on October 5. The list is for the seats that are going to polls in the first phase of the Bihar elections on October 28. Though the party has not given ticket to two sitting MLAs who are accused of rape, it has nominated their wives, reported India Today. Vibha Devi, who will contest the elections from the Nawada assembly seat, is the wife of RJD leader Raj Ballabh Yadav, who is currently in jail for raping a minor. Kiran Devi, the wife of absconding rape accused Arun Yadav, will contest elections from the Sandesh Assembly seat. Among the other candidates named by the RJD in the first list are Shivanand Tiwaris son Rahul Tiwari , Jagadanand Singhs son Sudhakar Singh, and Jamui MLA Vijay Prakash, reported Zee News. Meanwhile, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav has been unanimously named the Chief Ministerial candidate. During the first phase of the Bihar elections, polls will be conducted in 16 districts. Chinas largest chipmaker Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC) is in preliminary exchanges about export restrictions with the US. As reported by Reuters, this could see SMICs access to its US supply chain restricted. U.S. export restrictions have hit a number of Chinese and other overseas companies over recent weeks and months. SMIC was hit with restrictions at the end of September following U.S. claims the company has Chinese military ties. Prior to this SMIC had to gain permission from the U.S. to supply Huawei with semiconductor chips. This formed a part of Trumps attempt to cripple the Chinese smartphone maker. Advertisement This means as it stands SMIC is not an option for Huawei to use in order to obtain semiconductor chips. Now it looks like the US has informed SMICs American suppliers of new export restrictions to abide by. as reported by Phone Arena. SMIC could be facing new export restrictions Speculation began at the end of September that the U.S. would restrict the export of certain materials to SMIC. To do this companies would require a license to operate. This is because the Trump administration fears that SMICs chips may have links to Chinese military goods. Now it seems that the U.S. has begun discussions with SMIC on this topic. Advertisement This came out because it was disclosed in a filing made by the foundry today to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The document states that SMIC is conducting assessments on the relevant impact of such export restrictions on the companys production and operation activities. Other reports suggest that it may be too little too late for SMIC and the U.S. has already begun moving on export restrictions. Any restrictions isolating SMIC from its U.S. supplies would be a massive problem for the company. They rely on materials sourced from the states or from Americas allies to manufacture chips for customers. Therefore, this could majorly impact the company. Advertisement If restrictions did come into force this would make SMIC the latest tech company in China to have its business controlled by the United States. Alongside all the issues surrounding TikTok and WeChat, Chinas relationship with the U.S. gets tenser by the day. The American government fears that these companies use their footholds in the country to gain data from U.S. consumers and corporations for the use of the Chinese government. As of yet no proof of this has surfaced. However, this has not stopped the Trump administration from taking some drastic action. How long these tensions and sanctions continue is anybodys guess but they do not appear to be going away any time soon. The ZEV products ranged from a class 5 on a SEA Electric SEA-Drive 120a on a Hino M5 chassis, up to a Hino XL Series class 8 tractor powered by Toyota's Fuel Cell system (see Toyota/Hino joint press release for more detail). Additionally, Hino featured a battery electric class 7 tractor with Hexagon Purus' full electric drive system, and a Hino XL Series class 8 box truck powered by Xos Trucks' X-Pack battery and electric drive system. For the battery electric vehicles, Hino will look at both central drive motors and e-axles. "Our holistic approach to working with technology leaders like Toyota, Hexagon Purus and Xos will result in a sustainable, low cost product line up that will meet the needs of our customers as our industry moves forward to zero emission vehicles. For customers ready to move in that direction now, the SEA Electric SEA-Drive 120a paired with a Hino M Series chassis is commercially available today," said Glenn Ellis Senior Vice President of Customer Experience. Hino Trucks Project Z advances Hino's environmental leadership position, first established in 1991 with the global sale of its hybrid buses, and will consist of demonstration vehicles the first half of 2021, customer demonstrations in 2022, and production prior to 2024. The project does not end here. Over the coming months Hino Trucks will unveil more granular details about the cutting edge technologies and vehicles to come out of Project Z. To monitor the progress of Project Z, visit www.hino.com. To see today's full live event, please visit www.youtube.com/HINOTRUCKSUSA. About Hino Trucks: Hino Trucks, a Toyota Group Company, manufactures, sells, and services a lineup of Class 4-8 commercial trucks in the United States. Hino Trucks is the premier heavy & medium duty nameplate in the United States with a product lineup that offers fully connected vehicles with low total cost of ownership, superior fuel economy, unmatched reliability and maneuverability and the most comprehensive bundle of standard features in the market. Headquartered in Novi, Michigan, Hino has a network of over 240 dealers nationwide committed to achieving excellence in the ultimate ownership experience. Learn more about Hino Trucks at http://www.hino.com or follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter and YouTube. SOURCE Hino Trucks Related Links http://www.hino.com Georgias governor extended his emergency rules regarding COVID-19 again Wednesday as the state surpassed 7,000 deaths from the respiratory illness. Gov. Brian Kemp extended the underlying state of emergency that allows him to issue other orders, which had been set to expire Oct. 10, until Nov. 9. The Republican pushed back the expiration of a series of rules and guidelines related to the pandemic from Oct. 1 until Oct. 15. Georgia has recorded more than 318,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus overall. The states seven-day average of new cases has fallen below 1,200 a day, a level equal to where it was in late June but still above the lowest point in late May. Georgia has ranked 24th in the country for new cases per capita in the past two weeks, down from a point during the summer when it was worst nationwide for that measure. One complicating factor is the increasing usage of rapid antigen tests, which arent yet recorded in state figures. Department of Public Health spokesperson Nancy Nydam said the state has recorded more than 28,000 positives from those tests, but they are not yet routinely published. Discussions are ongoing about when they will be included on the website, Nydam wrote in an email to The Associated Press. The share of positives on nasal swab PCR tests has fallen to a rolling seven-day average of 6.4%, getting close to the 5% level that experts say indicates a state is doing enough testing to catch outbreaks. The number of people hospitalized also continues to creep down, now at the same level as in late June. Fewer new deaths are being recorded, even as the states total rose to 7,021 Wednesday. But with three months left in the year, if Georgia averages 33 deaths a day, it will surpass 10,000 deaths for the year. The state has averaged 35 deaths a day over the past week. Kemp changed his orders to allow restaurant and bar workers diagnosed with COVID-19 to return to work once theyve been symptom free, without medication, for 24 hours, down from a previous three days. Spokesman Cody Hall said that was in accord with new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The governor also acted to allow the state to grant college aid to certain students who havent been able to take the SAT or ACT college tests. Scheduled dates to take those tests have been repeatedly canceled in some locations because of the pandemic. The Georgia Student Finance Commission can grant Zell Miller Scholarships to otherwise eligible 2020 high school graduates as long as they file a qualifying test score by June 30, 2021. The commission can also give the less-lucrative Hope Scholarship to students who havent graduated from eligible high schools as long as they file a qualifying score by that date. Most high school graduates can qualify for the HOPE Scholarship based on high school grades alone. Kemp on Tuesday told reporters that he would keep the limit on public gatherings without social distancing at 50 people, despite some suggestions that he lower the limit to 20. He told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that he and Public Health Commissioner Kathleen Toomey dont want to make rules people arent going to follow Its a great idea, but people are over that. One of the things that Dr. Toomey and I have tried to do is to make sure that were putting things out there that people can buy into, he said. And to go backwards on that, I just dont think people are going to comply with it. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics COVID-19 Georgia Education RBI extends hike in banks' MSF loan facility, WMA limit to states to boost liquidity Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has given a boost to liquidity ahead of its monetary policy meeting by extending the tenure of enhanced lending facility for banks to six months to meet the cash crunch. The move comes amid the Corona virus epidemic and the current economic crisis caused by lockdown. RBI said the temporary step is intended to increase the liquidity in banks. Under this, the loan limit under the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) for scheduled banks was increased from 2 per cent to 3 per cent of their net demand and time liability (NDTL) from 27 March 2020. The facility was initially meant for 30 June 2020 but in view of the Kovid-19 crisis, it was later extended to 30 September 2020. The RBI said in a statement, providing banks with a satisfactory position in terms of liquidity and extending the exemption given under MSF to meet their cash coverage ratio (LCR) requirements for six months, ie, till 31 March 2021 RBI said this measure will provide banks with access to additional funds of up to Rs49 lakh crore. Under MSF, banks can avail loans from the Reserve Bank for one day on government securities held under statutory liquidity ratio. The rate of interest on marginal standing facility is currently 4.25 per cent. RBI has also decided to extend the relaxation in WMA limits and overdraft regulations to states/ union territories announced on 17 April 2020 and 7 April 2020, respectively, for a further period of 6 months till 31 March 2021. RBI had earlier announced an increase in WMA limit of the states/UTs by 60 per cent over and above the level as on 31 March 2020, vide its press release dated 17 April 2020, with a view to provide greater comfort to state governments in undertaking Covid-19 containment and mitigation measures, and to enable them to plan their market borrowings. Further, in order to provide flexibility to state governments to tide over their cash flow mismatches, the overdraft (OD) regulations were relaxed, with effect from 7 April 2020 wherein it was decided to increase the number of days for which a state/ UT can be in overdraft continuously to 21 working days from 14 working days; and the number of days for which a state/ UT can be in overdraft in a quarter to 50 working days from 36 working days. Carl Keany, 29, was regularly drinking seven pints of cider a day, Derby Crown Court heard A drunk man has been jailed for two years and eight months for hurling a toddler, two, from a 20-foot-high window. The child was caught by a passerby before he hit the ground after he was thrown from a first-floor window in Newbold, Derbyshire. Carl Keany, 29, was regularly drinking seven pints of cider a day and had just returned from the pub, a judge at Derby Crown Court was told. Judge Egbuna called the crime 'immoral' and 'horrific' before revealing the sentence. Even Keany's defence lawyer, Joe Harvey, branded the act 'monstrous' before adding the defendent 'can never forgive himself for what he has done'. Keany was openly weeping when he appeared via a video link from HMP Nottingham. Sarah Slater, prosecuting, outlined the case in court as it happened on August 14 this year. Keany had been drinking heavily at a nearby pub before he went to a house at around 6.40pm. That house contained a two-year-old child. A short time after, he could be heard inside the house shouting and screaming at the child victim. He then became enraged and dangled the child from the window on the first floor of that house. Keany was openly weeping when he appeared at Derby Crown Court (pictured) via a video link from HMP Nottingham There were two people outside the house on the ground, who both pleaded for him to stop as he was endangering the child. Miss Slater said: 'They were shouting at him to take the child back inside, but he shouted: "Here, f****** have him". 'He then flings him out of the window.' Luckily, the people nearby were fast enough to catch the child before he hit the ground. Police arrived at 6.55pm and tried to get into the house, but he had locked all windows and both the front and back doors. Eventually, officers managed to arrest Keany and take him to the police station. Joe Harvey, defending, said: 'When I picked up this case and read it, it struck me that this is one of those cases which do not materialise in our line of work very often, fortunately. 'It is monstrous behaviour. That is a word which I used with him in conference this morning and a word that he recognises as being apt. 'He says he can never forgive himself for what he has done. This is an incident which was entirely out of character for him.' Judge Robert Egbuna sentenced Keany, of Lucas Road, Newbold, to two years and eight months in prison, saying: 'Your acts towards the child were immoral, horrific and something that any right-thinking person would view as totally reprehensible. 'You were under the influence of a significant amount of alcohol. But you have shown remorse and it is clear that you are ashamed of your actions.' Judge Egbuna also made a restraining order for Keany never to come into contact with the child again until that order is lifted. CHICAGO, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Zing Health, a physician-led Medicare Advantage HMO plan launched last year, announced it will expand its services to 12 new counties, tripling its geographic coverage. Zing's expansion remains true to its mission to provide diverse seniors in the Midwest affordable, personalized health care built around community and member outcomes. "We are moving beyond Cook County, where we've already made a tremendous difference, to six additional counties in Illinois, three in Indiana and three in Michigan," said Zing Health CEO Eric E. Whitaker, MD. "We were in stealth mode when we came out of the gate last fall, but there's been a great deal of support for our Medicare Advantage plan from the community. So we decided the time was right to expand and continue making a difference for diverse populations with our community-based, personalized healthcare options." This expansion comes just in time for the Annual Enrollment Period, which runs from Oct. 15-Dec. 7. Included counties are Will, Kane, Winnebago, McHenry, Ogle and Boone in Illinois; Allen, Lake and Marion in Indiana; and Wayne, Oakland and Genesee in Michigan. In 2021, Zing Health will expand its Medicare Advantage plan offerings beyond its one traditional HMO offering in 2020 with a Point of Service HMO (POS-HMO) and a Chronic Special Needs HMO plan (C-SNP). Also, Zing is licensed to provide Employer Group Waiver Plan (EGWP) options in 2021 to select retiree groups. Supporting Affordable, Efficient and Superior Health Care Unlike a health insurance system that is often complicated to navigate and access, especially for underserved populations living in compromised socioeconomic conditions, Zing Health's care model is designed to make it easy for members to access the services they need. Medicare Advantage offers a suite of comprehensive services that provides members additional value and access to holistic care. These include dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs and morebenefits that people with original Medicare must pay for out-of-pocket unless they have a supplemental plan. This can create health disparities and inequalities in healthcare among minority members. "We are physician-founded and have done this in partnership with Health 2047the innovation subsidiary of the American Medical Association," Whitaker said. "We understand the pain points that healthcare providers face when dealing with traditional health insurers. In Zing Health, doctors who are normally subject to health insurers have found a plan that puts the member and the physician back into the center of the healthcare equation." Focusing on the Social Determinants of Health Zing Health is targeting diverse populations, which proved very successful in Cook County during its first year of business. Of the approximate 5.1 million residents in Illinois' most populous county, 41.9% are African American and 24% are Hispanic. A focus on the social determinants of health inform Zing Health's tech-enabled community-based approach to care. Its impact teams go out into the community to help its members maintain and improve their health, while Spanish-speaking call center staff and internal sales agents make signing up seamless. Zing Health's Medicare Advantage plan has been well-received by its Cook County constituentsespecially underserved members who have been guided through the entire process. "We've tried to mitigate the barriers and access to care in Zing Health's plan, and provide members with a zero-cost share up to the maximum amount the benefit offers," said Saadia Selvie, Zing Health's vice president of sales and marketing. "We've received a tremendous positive response from the providers and community leaders in Illinois. They've been impressed with our leadership team and the understanding we possess of the communities we serve." "Zing Health understands how social determinants impact health, especially in diverse neighborhoods," said Mike Pykosz, CEO of Oak Street Health, a network of primary care providers with centers in nine states. "They talked with our patients to understand their pain pointssuch as rising costs for insulinand then took those issues into consideration, and helped make those pain points less intrusive when dealing with a Medicare Advantage plan." Zing Health understands that to make a difference in this world, it needs to consider all the economic and social conditions that influence individual and group differences in health status. "We build systems that hold us accountable, speed up claim payment and reimbursement, provide fast and accurate responses to questions and offer speedy reevaluation of denied claims to drive better patient outcomes economically," Whitaker said. "Whereas a lot of insurance companies run away from diverse populations, we're running towards them. We want to give our experience, expertise and care to vulnerable populations." About Zing Health: Zing Health Holdings, Inc. is a groundbreaking insurance company making Medicare Advantage the best it can be for those 65 and over or with long-term disability. It's easy to get lost in the mix at big insurance companies. Zing Health's community-based approach uses the social determinants of health to keep individuals and communities healthy, and returns the physician and the member to the center of the healthcare equation. This gives each member personalized care and service tailored to their singular needs. Members also receive individualized assistance to make their transition to Zing Health as easy as possible, and have the ability to personalize their plans, access to facilities designed to help them better meet their healthcare needs and a dedicated care team. For more information on Zing Health, visit www.myzinghealth.com. Eric E. Whitaker, MD available for interviews by reaching out to Media Contact Media Contact: Sydney Watkins Purpose Brand [email protected] 773-484-3257 SOURCE Zing Health Related Links http://www.myzinghealth.com Vilnius, Oct 5 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 6th Oct, 2020 ) :Lithuania is recalling its ambassador to Belarus for consultations, the Baltic state's foreign ministry said on Monday, amid escalating tensions with Minsk over its disputed presidential election. The move comes three days after Minsk recalled its ambassadors to Vilnius and Warsaw in the wake of EU sanctions against Belarusian officials accused of election fraud and human rights abuses. Lithuania and Poland have angered Belarus's leader Alexander Lukashenko by supporting protests that have rocked the country demanding he resign in the wake of the disputed August 9 presidential election. Vilnius has drawn particular ire by giving shelter to Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya who claims to have won the ballot. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius said that, despite the recall, his country wanted to keep ambassadorial ties with neighbouring Belarus. Belarus has urged Lithuania and Poland, both EU and NATO member states, to reduce the number of their diplomats stationed in the country. Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 19:06:14|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close TEHRAN, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Iran does not care who will take the office in Washington in the upcoming U.S. presidential election in November, Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh said on Monday. What matters is "Washington should reverse its hostile policies against Tehran," Khatibzadeh told Tasnim news agency. "The UN Security Council Resolution 2231 and the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (the JCPOA)", should be honored by the United States, Khatibzadeh was quoted as saying. Besides, Washington should admit its mistakes of policies vis-a-vis Iran, stop the "economic war and terrorism" against Iran, return to its JCPOA commitments, and make up for the damage caused by its withdrawal from the Iranian 2015 nuclear deal, he stressed. Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif also said that "it is not important for us who will win the upcoming election in the United States, but it is important for us to see Washington rectify its approach towards Tehran." Enditem BAFTA-award winning actor Tom Hollander contributed to the Sunday Times' article, 'A life in the day' and his hilarious words have gone viral. While legions of celebrities have written for the weekly feature and kept things fairly tame, Tom, 53, was lauded by fans for discussing peeing in the dark, sleeping pills and masturbation. He wrote: 'I wake up generally at 3 or 4am. Not because Im like Margaret Thatcher, but because I need to pee. 'It's an antidote to the tedious bull***t from healthy living warriors': Tom Hollander's 'life in the day' article has gone viral as he discussed peeing in the dark, sleeping pills and masturbation 'I pee in the darkness using my phone screen to illuminate the target, then often take half a sleeping pill (antihistamine), turn on the World Service very quietly and try to go to sleep.' After discussing holding his girlfriend in different positions, or the pillow if she is absent, he examined his bald patch, weighs himself and pulls his stomach in. And if that wasn't enough of an insight, he pens: 'If it's sunny I might go for a cycle ride down the canal, if it's raining I might masturbate or doze.' Mr Popular: People took to Twitter in their droves after reading the article, to proclaim what a funny man the Night Manager actor is People took to Twitter in their droves after reading the article, to proclaim what a funny man the Night Manager actor is. They wrote: 'I urge you to read this excellent day in the life of Tom Hollander as an antidote to the tedious bull***t from healthy living warriors.' 'I love Tom Hollander even more after reading this. If that's at all possible.' 'Life In The Day. Sunday Times Magazine. Usually such self-aggrandizing puff pieces, the truth and honesty (and wit) of this shines through. 'Brilliant writing. Great actor. And I want to give him a hug.' 'We must wrap Tom Hollander in wool and keep him safe through 2020 as a national treasure.' Meanwhile, things are looking up for the romance between Tom and interior designer Fran Hickman. Tom, star of spy film The King's Man and Fran, 36, who broke off their engagement in 2010, spent the entire lockdown together at Tom's home. Friends say the couple are planning on making things official again. A source told Daily Mail: 'They really love each other. Tom isn't getting any younger. We're all waiting on him to propose again.' By Online Desk MUMBAI: While the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) ruled out murder in the death case of Sushant Singh Rajput, his sister Shweta Singh Kirti, on Monday posed questions on the new twist in the case. Shweta took to Twitter to ask how this "U-Turn" happened and that it must be explained. The All India Institute of Medical Sciences' (AIIMS) Forensic Medical Board, which was formed to look into Sushant Singh Rajput's death case had ruled out the murder of the late actor in its report. "We have concluded our conclusive report. It is a case of hanging and death by suicide," Dr Sudhir Gupta, AIIMS Forensic Head told ANI on Saturday. Meanwhile, the actor's family lawyer Vikas Singh said on Sunday that he was highly perturbed by the AIIMS' medico-legal opinion submitted to the CBI and that they would request the probe agency's chief to constitute a fresh forensic team in the case. Sushant was found dead in his Bandra apartment on June 14 in Mumbai. While Mumbai Police initially concluded the actor had committed suicide, the case was subsequently taken up by CBI, Enforcement Directorate and Narcotics Control Bureau. (If you are having suicidal thoughts, or are worried about a friend or need emotional support, someone is always there to listen. Call AASRA's 24x7 Helpline: +91-9820466726 for assistance) (With inputs from ANI) Gov. Phil Murphy will return to the Trenton War Memorial on Monday for another update on the the states recovery from the coronavirus pandemic as the rate of transmission continues to rise, indicating the outbreak is expanding. The briefing starts at 1 p.m. and will be streamed live from the George Washington Ballroom on the governors YouTube.com channel. Murphy will be joined by state Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli, state epidemiologist Dr. Christina Tan and State Police Superintendent Colonel Pat Callahan. State health officials reported one additional death and 637 more COVID-19 cases on Sunday. The rate of transmission increased from 1.24 to 1.26, marking the seventh straight day it has climbed. Any number above the key benchmark of 1 indicates the outbreak is expanding. Murphy has expressed concern in recent days over the sharp increases in cases in Ocean County and Lakewood, in particular. In the past five days, 546 new cases have been reported in Lakewood Ocean Countys most populous municipality. The townships totals have increased by about 35% since Sept. 14 from 3,089 to 4,720. Since March, New Jersey has reported 16,136 deaths attributed to the virus 14,349 lab-confirmed and 1,787 considered probable. The states death toll is fourth highest in the U.S., after New York, Texas and California. recently surpassed New Jersey. On Monday morning, Murphy made appearances on CNN, CBS, and MSNBC. NJ Advance Media staff writer Brent Johnson contributed to this report. Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JGoldmanNJ. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Wildfires in California have burned more than 4 million acres (1.6 million hectares) in 2020, over twice the previous record for any year and an area larger than Connecticut, the states fire agency reported on Sunday. The most-populous U.S. state has suffered five of its six largest wildfires in history this year as heat waves and dry-lightning sieges coincided with drier conditions that climate scientists blame on global warming. At least 31 people have died in this years fires and over 8,454 homes and other structures have been destroyed, Cal Fire said in a statement. 4 million acres or 1.6 million hectares, which roughly translates to 16187.42569 square feet, is a vast area. In fact, to put it into perspective, thats more than the entire area of Indian states like states like Tripura, Sikkim, Goa and Delhi combined. It is also almost the entire area of the state of Nagaland (16,579). Californias previous record burn area was nearly 2 million acres in 2018 when the state had its most deadly and destructive wildfire that killed at least 85 civilians and destroyed nearly 19,000 structures in and around the mountain town of Paradise. Theres no words to describe what is taking place and what continues to take place, said Cal Fire spokesman Scott McLean. It goes to show how dry the state is and how volatile the vegetation is. California suffered a prolonged drought from around 2010 to 2017, causing diseases and insect infestations that killed millions of trees. That followed a century of fire suppression that also built up brush and dead trees, turning some forests into tinderboxes. City real-estate prices and second-home construction have seen the growth of communities in peripheral, wildland areas that have naturally burned for millennia. In the world-famous wine country of Napa County, the so-called Glass Fire has damaged over a dozen wineries. Vineyards worked through the night on Saturday to pick grape varieties that can resist smoke damage. Some crops heavily exposed to smoke may be a write-off. Firefighters were expected to get a break from cooler temperatures in Northern California this week, with a chance of rain, Cal Fire said. (With inputs from Reuters.) Toomey, who served in the House from 1999 to 2005, focused on fiscal issues and reining in government spending to fuel his bid for the Senate seat that he won in 2010. He served as the president of the anti-tax Club for Growth between his congressional terms. Maple Gold Appoints Egizio Bianchini As Strategic Advisor Posted by Publisher Internet Maple Gold Mines Ltd. (TSXV: MGM) (OTCQB: MGMLF) (FSE: M3G)?(\Maple Gold\ or the \Company\ https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/maple-gold-mines-ltd/) is very pleased to announce the appointment of Egizio Bianchini as a strategic advisor to provide guidance and insight on strategic corporate matters.? Mr. Bianchini was formerly Executive Vice Chairman of Ivanhoe Mines and previously held a distinguished 29-year career at BMO Capital Markets where he held the title of Vice Chairman and Co-Head of the Global Metals & Mining Group from 2011 to 2018.? ?Egizio is one of the most well-connected figures in the global mining industry and we are delighted to have his depth of experience as we forge ahead with the Douay Gold Project in Quebec,? stated Matthew Hornor, President and CEO of Maple Gold. ?His appointment completes our roster of highly accomplished strategic advisors that also includes Timo Jauristo and Matthew Lechtzier.? Their combined involvement signifies a major evolution in how we are approaching our business and the considerable opportunities that lay ahead.? Egizio Bianchini Mr. Bianchini was formerly Executive Vice Chairman of Ivanhoe Mines and previously held a 29-year career at BMO Capital Markets, a member of Canada-based BMO Financial Group, where he served as Vice Chairman and Co-Head of the Global Metals & Mining Group from April 2011 to March 2018. With more than 30 years? experience in the metals and mining financial services sector, Mr. Bianchini has an extensive track record in advising a wide range of metals and mining companies around the world and in structuring and executing initial public offerings and other capital raises. Stock Option Grant In conjunction with the new appointment, along with the appointments of Timo Jauristo and Matthew Lechtzier as announced on September 14, 2020, the Company has granted a total of 750,000 incentive stock options at a price of $0.20. The Company\-\-s Stock Option Plan governs these incentive options, as well as the terms and conditions of their exercise, which is in accordance with policies of the TSX Venture Exchange. About Maple Gold Maple Gold Mines Ltd. controls the 357-square-kilometre Douay Gold Project located within the prolific Abitibi Greenstone Belt in northern Quebec, Canada. The Project has an established National Instrument 43-101 gold resource of 422,000 ounces in the Indicated category (8.6Mt grading 1.52 g/t Au) and 2.35 million ounces in the Inferred category (71.2Mt grading 1.03 g/t Au) with significant potential for resource expansion and new discoveries. The Project benefits from exceptional infrastructure access and the Company is currently focused on carrying out aggressive exploration programs to expand and update the known resource.? For more information, please visit www.maplegoldmines.com. For more information please visit www.maplegoldmines.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. Forward Looking Statements: This news release contains ?forward-looking information\ and ?forward-looking statements? (collectively referred to as ?forward-looking statements?) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation in Canada, including statements about the completion of the private placement financing and use of proceeds of the financing. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, uncertainties and management?s best estimate of future events. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company?s expectations and projections. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. 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 Maple Gold Mines Ltd.?s filings with Canadian securities regulators available on www.sedar.com or the Company?s website at www.maplegoldmines.com. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. BETHESDA, Md. Stepping gingerly, President Donald Trump walked out the military hospital Monday night where he has been receiving an unprecedented level of care for COVID-19, immediately igniting a new controversy by declaring that despite his illness the nation should not fear the virus that has killed more than 210,000 Americans. Wearing a mask, Trump left Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for a waiting SUV that carried him to Marine One for the short helicopter flight back to the White House. Trumps doctor, Navy Cdr. Sean Conley, said the president would not be fully out of the woods for another week but that Trump had met or exceeded standards for discharge from the hospital. Trump is expected to continue his recovery at the White House, where the reach of the outbreak that has infected the highest levels of the U.S. government is still being uncovered. Still Trump, who remains contagious, indicated he wont be kept from campaigning for long, tweeting before leaving the hospital, Will be back on the Campaign Trail soon!!! Trump made a point of sounding confident earlier. He tweeted, I will be leaving the great Walter Reed Medical Center today at 6:30 P.M. Feeling really good! Dont be afraid of Covid. Dont let it dominate your life. I feel better than I did 20 years ago! However, that message alarmed infectious disease experts and suggested the presidents own illness had not caused him to rethink his often-cavalier attitude toward the disease, which has also infected the first lady and several White House aides, including new cases revealed on Monday. We have to be realistic in this: COVID is a complete threat to the American population, said Dr. David Nace of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, an expert on infections in older adults. Most of the people arent so lucky as the president, with an in-house medical unit and access to experimental treatments, Nace added. Its an unconscionable message, agreed Dr. Sadiya Khan of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. I would go so far as to say that it may precipitate or worsen spread. There was political pushback to Trumps attitude toward the virus, as well. Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas told the Houston Chronicle editorial board that Trump had let his guard down in his effort to show that the country was moving beyond the virus and had created confusion about how to stay safe. Conley said that because of Trumps unusual level of treatment so early after discovery of his illness he was in uncharted territory. But the doctor also was upbeat at an afternoon briefing and said the president could resume his normal schedule once there is no evidence of live virus still present. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those with mild to moderate symptoms of COVID-19 can be contagious for as many and should isolate for at least 10 days. Trumps expected discharge raised new questions about how the administration was going to protect other officials from a disease that remains rampant in the presidents body. Press secretary Kayleigh McEnany announced she had tested positive for the virus Monday morning and was entering quarantine. Both Nace and Khan expressed fear Trump wont properly stay isolated at the White House -- and that he hasnt learned his lesson about wearing a mask. We know he hates the mask, we know he hates to be restricted, we know hes unpredictable, Nace said. The rest of the American people are held accountable to a 10-day isolation period. There were also lingering questions about potential long term effects to the president and even when he first came down with the virus Conley repeatedly declined to share results of medical scans of Trumps lungs, saying he was not at liberty to discuss the information because Trump did not waive doctor-patient confidentiality on the subject. COVID-19 has been known to cause significant damage to the lungs of some patients. Conley also declined to share the date of Trumps most recent negative test for the virus a critical point for contact tracing and understanding where Trump was in the course of the disease. Trumps nonchalant message about not fearing the virus comes as his own administration has encouraged Americans to be very careful and take precautions to avoid contracting and spreading the disease as cases continue to spike across the country. For more than eight months, Trumps efforts to play down the threat of the virus in hopes of propping up the economy ahead of the election have drawn bipartisan criticism. Only a day earlier, Trump suggested he had finally grasped the true nature of the virus, saying in a video, I get it. But then on Sunday afternoon, Trump briefly ventured out of the hospital while contagious to salute cheering supporters by motorcade an outing that disregarded precautions meant to contain the virus. White House officials said Trump was anxious to be released after three nights at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where doctors revealed that his blood oxygen level had dropped suddenly twice in recent days and that they gave him a steroid typically only recommended for the very sick. Trumps experience with the disease has been dramatically different from most Americans, who do not have access to the same kind of monitoring and care. While most must cope with their symptoms and fear of whether theyll take a turn for the worse at home and alone, Trump has been staying in the presidential suite of one of the nations best hospitals and has been given experimental drugs not readily available to the public. He returns to the White House where there is a team of doctors on call with 24-hour monitoring. Trump was leaving the hospital after receiving a fourth dose of the antiviral drug remdesivir Monday evening, Conley said. He will receive the fifth and final dose Tuesday at the White House. Less than one month before Election Day, Trump was eager to project strength despite his illness and to press his campaign effort across the country. Vice President Mike Pence returned to the campaign trail moments after Trump announced he would soon leave the hospital. The vice president boarded Air Force Two to fly to Salt Lake City, where he is to face off against Democratic vice presidential nominee Sen. Kamala Harris on Wednesday. Joe Bidens campaign, meanwhile, said the Democratic presidential nominee again tested negative for coronavirus Sunday. The results came five days after Biden spent more than 90 minutes on the debate stage with Trump. McEnany, who announced Monday that she had contracted the virus, spoke briefly with reporters on Sunday evening without wearing a mask, but said that no members of the White House press corps spent enough time around her to be considered close contacts. Even before Trumps motorcade outing on Sunday, some Secret Service agents had expressed concern about the lackadaisical attitude toward masks and social distancing inside the White House, but there isnt much they can do, according to agents and officials who spoke to The Associated Press. This close to the election, thousands of agents are engaged on protective duty so they can be subbed out quickly should someone test positive. Trumps aggressive course of treatment included the steroid dexamethasone and the single dose he was given Friday of an experimental drug from Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. that supplies antibodies to help the immune system fight the virus. Trump on Friday also began a five-day course of remdesivir, a Gilead Sciences drug currently used for moderately and severely ill patients. The drugs work in different ways the antibodies help the immune system rid the body of virus, and remdesivir curbs the virus' ability to multiply. ___ Zeke Miller, Jill Colvin and Aamer Madhani of The Associated Press wrote this story. Miller and Colvin reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Lauran Neergaard and Jonathan Lemire in Washington, and Bill Barrow in Wilmington, Delaware, contributed to this report. The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you, we are excited to offer 4 weeks FREE Digital & Print access to all subscribers new and returning alike. We are dedicated to continuing providing reliable, high quality journalism. This is possible with the trust and support of our subscribers in the community we are proud to serve. The hot-button amendment question on the Illinois ballot this year would change the states tax structure if approved. The question would amend the states 1970 constitution to allow Illinois to impose increasingly higher income tax rates on higher income earners in what is known as a graduated tax system. The amendment would remove a portion of the constitution that is often referred to as a flat tax that requires all taxes to be the same at all income level. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has spent millions of dollars on a campaign promoting the amendment. Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton has warned residents that the amendments failure in the voting booth could lead to an across-the-board 20% income tax hike in order to address the states budget crisis. A graduated tax, also called as a progressive tax, is in place in some form in 32 states and Washington D.C. Illinois is one of eight states with a flat tax structure. Advocates say that the new system will raise necessary revenue for the state and public services while making the tax burden easier on lower and middle-income earning residents by cutting their taxes and raising the taxes on top earners. Opponents say that a graduated tax could be a slippery slope to more tax hikes and could push out residents and businesses. Lissa Druss of the Coalition to Stop the Proposed Tax Hike Amendment a group opposing the amendment said that the proponents are asking Illinois residents to leave taxation at the hand of Illinois politicians. Druss said these politicians have already significantly raised taxes. The proponents of the tax hike amendment are asking us to trust the politicians in Springfield with our tax dollars, but theyve already passed two major tax hikes in the last 10 years, Druss said, Now the Springfield politicians are back asking us to trust them with new unyielding power to raise our taxes and create as many brackets whenever they want in the midst of a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic. Lara Sisselman of Vote Yes for Fairness a group supporting the amendment said that the current tax system favors the wealthy and a graduated tax would lead to a tax cut to over 90% of Illinois residents. Sisselman said the tax rates in a graduated tax are marginal meaning that higher rates of taxes will only be paid for extra revenue made after crossing the $250,000 threshold. Our current tax system in Illinois is fundamentally broken and unfair, Sisselman said, Millionaires and billionaires in Illinois are paying the same tax rates as our essential workers like nurses and grocery store clerks. Sisselman said that legislators already have taxing authority opponents bring up in opposition to the amendment, but they can now select different rates for different brackets instead of a flat raise across the board. The anti-graduated tax coalition also argues that an increase in taxes would push out both large and small businesses and encourage the states out-migration trend. Opponents of the amendment argue that comparing Illinois to other states with a graduated tax is inaccurate because Illinois implemented several new taxes in July of 2019, such as a motor fuel tax increase an an increase in vehicle registration fees. On the pro-amendment side, Sisselman said the tax will raise billions in additional revenue each year to address the states budget crisis and funding the states education system which Sisselman said would lower the property tax burden on families on the municipal level to fund schools. Most small business owners who do not fall in the higher income bracket will receive a tax cut and the graduated tax would create a better environment for these businesses, Sisselman said. Another debated subject is whether retirement income is off the table. The Coalition to Stop the Proposed Tax Hike Amendment points to a quote from state Treasurer Michael Frerichs where he said that the amendment would allow for graduated taxation rates on retirement income for high earners. Frerichs said he believed the current system did not differentiate from retirees with a six-figure income and retirees who can barely get by on their savings or pension. Sisselman denied that the graduated tax would tax retirement incomes and will not give the state the power to do so. Miami: As President Donald Trump left a military hospital on Monday after three days of COVID-19 treatment, challenger Joe Biden attacked the President for downplaying the seriousness of the disease even after contracting it. "Now that he's busy tweeting campaign messages, I would ask him to do this: listen to the scientists," Biden said during a campaign speech in Miami's Little Havana neighbourhood. "Support masks." Democratic presidential candidate former vice-president Joe Biden has implored Trump to listen to the science on coronavirus. Credit:AP Biden, the Democratic former vice-president, also spoke in the city's Little Haiti neighbourhood and planned to appear at a NBC News town hall in the evening from Miami. Florida is seen as a must-win for Trump's re-election campaign, which has almost no path to victory if he fails to collect the state's crucial 29 electoral college votes. This Morning viewers have gone wild over the show's guest chef Joseph Denison Carey, teasing that they could 'watch him cooking all day.' Joseph Denison Carey, from East London, appeared on the show once again today to teach presenters Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield how to make some chicken noodle soup - perfect for the cold autumn weather. But it seems viewers were more focused on the dishy chef rather than the food itself, with several hailing him 'gorgeous' - and one joking she barely noticed the soup during the segment. Joseph Denison Carey (pictured), from East London, appeared This Morning once again today to teach presenters Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield how to make some chicken noodle soup Joseph (pictured) is a founder of The Bread and Butter Supper Club - an event which serves a variety of Michelin quality food in East London Taking to twitter to swoon over the chef, one commented: 'I don't care about the soup,' while a second enthused: 'Goodness me, Joseph is rather fit.' A third agreed: 'I don't care about the soup'. Joseph is a founder of The Bread and Butter Supper Club - an event which serves a variety of Michelin quality food in East London. He founded the project along with his pals Noah and Henry, who he first met at the King Alfred School in 2009. it seems viewers were more focused on the dishy chef rather than the food, with several hailing him 'gorgeous' and one joking she'd barely even noticed the soup during the segment Joseph, who grew up in North London, went on to qualify from ALMA - scuola internazionale di cucina italiana in Parma, Italy. He has also worked in restaurants and supper clubs in London, including as the sous chef at Gabriel Waterhouses The Water House Project in Bethnal Green, and as a Chef De Partie at Pidgin in Hackney. In June, Joseph appeared on the show for the first time to show off his chicken sandwich recipe and host Holly, 39, revealed she's known the chef since he was a child. Introducing him to viewers, Phillip said: 'Joseph is going to join us now live from East London, this is right up my street Joseph, I cannot tell you, fried chicken sandwich. Joseph, who grew up in North London, went on to qualify from ALMA - scuola internazionale di cucina italiana in Parma, Italy In June, Joseph appeared on the show for the first time to show off his chicken sandwich recipe and host Holly, 39, revealed she's known the chef since he was a child 'Are you going to declare an interest?' he asked Holly, to which she replied: 'Good morning! Yes I am, Joseph I have known since he was teeny teeny tiny, so it's really weird for me to sit here now and see you all grown up on the telly!' After teasing Holly, Phil went on: 'Your pedigree is amazing, you were running Bread and Butter Supper Club in Hackney before lockdown, with your mates. 'But you've lived in Italy, worked under Michelin-starred chefs, this is a hell of a pedigree!' Joseph responded: 'Yes, thank you! I moved to Italy just after school, it was terrifying but amazing, I learned some wicked skills over there that I will never forget.' A federal judge in Florida late last month denied an insurers petition to dismiss a COVID-19 business-interruption lawsuit, while a federal magistrate judge in California threw out a similar claim. Both lawsuits were filed by plaintiffs whose policies excluded coverage for any damage caused by virus. The California judge said arguments that the exclusion didnt apply were nonsense, while the Florida judge found similar arguments plausible. The disparate opinions continue a split among state and federal judges across the nation as to whether business income lost because of COVID-19 closure orders is recoverable through all risk commercial property insurance policies. Federal courts in New York, Washington D.C., Texas and Michigan and a state court in Michigan have dismissed COVID-19 business-interruption lawsuits. A federal court in Kansas City, Mo., has allowed three such lawsuits to proceed, as has a state court judge in New Jersey. The latest decision comes from a lawsuit filed by Urogynecology Specialist of Florida against Sentinel Insurance Co. for breach of contract after the carrier denied the medical clinics claim for lost income during a statewide closure order. Sentinel said the policy that excluded coverage for damage caused directly or indirectly by the presence, growth, proliferation, spread, or any activity of fungi, wet rot, dry rot, bacteria or virus. U.S. District Judge Anne C. Conway, with the Middle District of Florida in Orlando, found two problems with the insurers argument. She said in an order issued last month that the section of the policy that referenced the virus exclusion stated that it modified certain coverage forms, but those forms werent provided to the court. More importantly perhaps, Conway said the insurer did not prove that the virus exclusion was not unambiguous. Denying coverage for losses stemming from COVID-19 does not logically align with the grouping of the virus exclusion with other pollutants such that the policy necessarily anticipated and intended to deny coverage for these kinds of business losses, her order states. Federal Magistrate Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley, on the other hand, found no ambiguity in the insurance policy that the Hartford Financial Services Group had issued to the Franklin European Wax Center in Fresno, Calif. The policy excluded any damage caused by virus. The wax center argued that it lost income because of the government closure orders, not because of the virus. Corleys order summed up her opinion about that in one word: Nonsense. The magistrate judge noted that the plaintiffs complaint states, the coronavirus is proliferating onto virtually every surface and object in, on, and around commercial premises such as that belonging to EWC Fresno, and thereby causing direct physical damage. Curiously, in another Northern California District case, a federal judge suggested that a pleading that claimed the novel coronavirus was physically on a property may have a better chance of getting a hearing. U.S. District Court Judge Jon S. Tigar on Sept. 14 granted a motion by Travelers Casualty Insurance Co. of America to dismiss a business-interruption lawsuit filed by Mudpie, a childrens store in San Francisco. But Tigar dismissed the case without prejudice, meaning Mudpie can file again after amending its pleading. Tigar wrote in his order that he was demising the lawsuit because Mudpie did not allege that any physical force had caused it to close the store and suffer a loss of income. Tigar said it is doubtful that Mudpie will be able to establish a direct physical loss of property, but granted the plaintiff leave to amend its complaint anyway. The court also recognizes, however, that the law concerning business interruption coverage linked to the COVID-19 pandemic is very much in development, the order states. Instead of amending its complaint, Mudpie on filed an appeal with the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in late September. Michael Levine, a policyholders attorney for Hunton Andrews Kurth in Washington D.C., said the state of play so far shows suggests that judges are looking for allegations that some tangible, physical change caused the business-income loss. The one commonality that weve seen so far, the courts are looking for some physical manifestation, he said. They are saying the closure orders alone arent enough and they are saying they want to see some allegation that COVID-19 has at least affected the property. Levine said those early dismissal orders, however, may be overturned on appeal. Topics Lawsuits California COVID-19 Florida USA Profit Loss The prestigious Women's Prize for Fiction has extended its eligibility for submissions to include anyone who is a 'cis woman, a transgender woman or anyone who is legally defined as a woman or of the female sex'. The Prize was founded 25 years ago to 'honour, celebrate and champion women's voices, and to shine a spotlight on phenomenal fiction written by women', a statement claimed. It has now decided that it will receive for submission full-length novels 'by all women' including 'cis' (heterosexual) women, transgender women and 'anyone who is legally defined as a woman'. Joanna Prior's statement added that the Trustees of the Prize, who include Anita Anand and Kate Mosse, are 'firmly opposed to any form of discrimination or prejudice on the basis of race, sexuality or gender identity'. Joanna Prior, chair of trustees on the Women's Prize for fiction, said they were 'firmly opposed to any form of discrimination or prejudice' The decision comes amid a row between the Prize and Akwaeke Emezi, who became the first transgender author to be nominated for the Women's Prize in 2019. Judges last year said they had not been aware of Emezi's gender when reading submissions and described their longlisting as a 'historic moment'. But today, Emezi said their publisher, Faber, had asked them if they wanted their second novel, The Death of Vivek Oji, to be submitted for the prize this year. Akwaeke Emezi became the first transgender author to be nominated for the prize last year Emezi said that when Faber got in touch with the Women's Prize about submitting The Death of Vivek Oji, they were allegedly informed: 'The information we would require from you regards Akwaeke Emezi's sex as defined by law.' According to The Guardian, the prize organisers then said that their terms and conditions for entry equated the word 'woman' with 'a cis woman, a transgender woman or anyone who is legally defined as a woman or of the female sex'. Ms Prior, chair of trustees, said: 'The Women's Prize for Fiction was founded 25 years ago to honour, celebrate and champion women's voices, and to shine a spotlight on phenomenal fiction written by women. The Women's Prize for Fiction has extended its eligibility for submissions to include anyone who is a 'cis woman, a transgender woman or anyone who is legally defined as a woman' 'Over the past quarter of a century, the prize has publicly championed and amplified a diverse breadth of women's voices, and holds the principle of freedom of expression among its core values. 'As a prize which celebrates the voices of women and the experience of being a woman in all its varied forms, we are proud to include as eligible for submission full-length novels written in English by all women. 'In our terms and conditions, the word 'woman' equates to a cis woman, a transgender woman or anyone who is legally defined as a woman or of the female sex. 'The Trustees of the Women's Prize Trust would like to reassert that we are firmly opposed to any form of discrimination or prejudice on the basis of race, sexuality or gender identity.' It appears the row was sparked by the Government's rejection of proposals to allow transgender people to 'self-ID' without a medical diagnosis. Women and Equalities Minister Liz Truss had said that instead of changing the legislation, the process and experience of applying for a gender recognition certificate would be made 'kinder and more straightforward'. In a long-delayed response to a two-year public consultation on the Gender Recognition Act, Ms Truss wrote: 'We want transgender people to be free to live and to prosper in a modern Britain.' Ms Truss announced plans to cut waiting lists at clinics, build three new NHS gender clinics, make it cheaper to get a gender recognition certificate and put the application process online. She said gender recognition reform is 'not the top priority for transgender people' and that their 'most important concern is the state of trans healthcare'. The Government believes the current Act strikes the right balance in providing 'proper checks and balances' and 'support for people who want to change their legal sex', she said. The minister agreed that the system needs to be 'kinder and more straightforward' and said the changes were made based on responses from the 'largest survey ever of British LGBT people' taken in 2017. Twitter users have raised eyebrows at the decision, with TalkRadio presenter Julia Hartley-Brewer leading claims that it opens up the Women's Prize to men To help people who felt the process was 'too bureaucratic' the procedure will be put online and the fee will be reduced from 140 to a 'nominal amount', Ms Truss said. The three new gender clinics are expected to cut waiting lists down by 1,600 patients in two years. The Women's Prize was founded in 1996 to recognise the literary achievement of female writers. The winner of the prize receives 30,000, along with a bronze sculpture called the Bessie created by artist Grizel Niven, the sister of actor and writer David Niven. Typically, a longlist of nominees is announced around March each year, followed by a shortlist in June; within days the winner is announced. The winner is selected by a board of 'five leading women' each year. Twitter users have raised eyebrows at the decision, with TalkRadio presenter Julia Hartley-Brewer leading claims that it opens up the Women's Prize to men. 'The Women's Prize For Fiction is now open to trans women as well as actual women writers. So it's now the Women's And Men's Prize For Fiction,' she tweeted. 'So really it's just the Prize For Fiction now, isn't it?' Left-wing journalist and campaigner against sexual violent Julie Bindel commented: 'Women's Prize for Fiction is now open to men. Progress, eh?' One social media user said: Women's Prize for Fiction seems to have missed the memo that a week ago the government rejected self-ID legal reforms. 'There is zero legal compulsion to open this prize to males. Women can reasonably expect not to compete against males for this prize at least.' Another posted: 'You are 'firmly opposed to any form of discrimination or prejudice on the basis of race, sexuality or gender identity'? 'But not sex? The Women's Prize for Fiction isn't opposed to discrimination on the basis of sex?' 'Oh great! So, it's not longer Women's Prize for Fiction then?! Give it a rest!' said another. One commented: 'A man can now win a 'Women's Prize for Fiction'. Go home 2020, you're drunk.' Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 21:01 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c493cb79 1 National RUU-cipta-kerja,job-creation,omnibus-bill-on-job-creation,omnibus-law,omnibus,labor-union,labor,house-of-representatives Free Police in Greater Jakarta have reportedly thwarted an attempt by workers to conduct a rally in front of the House of Representatives complex in Senayan, Jakarta, to protest the passing of the controversial omnibus bill on job creation into law on Monday. Hundreds of workers grouped under the Banten chapter of the Indonesian Metal Workers Federation (FSPMI) said they were stranded on roads as the police blocked their access to the capital, citing the large-scale social restrictions (PSBB) enacted to curb COVID-19 transmission in the city as a reason. If the government and the House didnt force through the omnibus bill in the middle of a pandemic, then of course laborers wouldnt insist on holding a rally, FSPMI protest coordinator Mubarok said on Monday as quoted by kompas.com. Scores of other workers from Bekasi, West Java, were also prevented from entering Jakarta by police and military personnel. Those who managed to reach the compound were ordered to disperse. Read also: Police telegram urges control over protests against controversial jobs bill Mubarok, who received direct reports from protesters in Jakarta, said that some of the rally participants were even forced to leave the compound by the police personnel who transported them to a nearby railway station to return back home, as reported by kompas.com. At least 5 million workers planned a national strike from Tuesday to Thursday this week, when the House was previously expected to hold plenary sessions to pass the bill into law. But the House decided to fast-track the final stage of the bills deliberation by moving the vote to Monday, concurrently with the House speakers closing speech for the first session of the 2020-2021 term. The lawmakers and government had been holding meetings, even on weekends, to expedite the deliberation process. In response, some labor unions decided to start the demonstrations earlier. Suparno, the chairman of the Bekasi chapter of the FSPMI, previously said around 5,000 workers from the region would join the demonstration on Monday. Jakarta Police spokesperson Sr. Comr. Yusri Yunus said the police did not grant the protesters permission to conduct protests due to the PSBB. Jakarta is in a health emergency. Do not add new clusters of COVID-19 transmission, he said in a statement on Monday. (vny) Local investors are preparing for a volatile start to the week after US President Donald Trumps COVID-19 diagnosis added an extra layer of complexity to the risks already facing markets. The local sharemarket plunged in the last hours of trading on Friday to finish down 1.4 per cent for the session. In the US the S&P500 fell 1 per cent and the tech-heavy Nasdaq index dropped 2.2 per cent after news of the positive test broke on Friday. The added uncertainty adds to fears over the US election and evidence that the global recovery is stalling with a recent batch of weak economic data, including US Non-Farm Payrolls, showing the global economy is losing steam. US President Donald Trump's COVID news has added to market uncertainty Credit:Twitter/@realDonaldTrump The US VIX, known as the 'fear' index, rose last week and has priced in even greater uncertainty around the US election period. Scientists affiliated with leading research institutions across the U.S. state in a letter published Monday in the journal Science that researchers across disciplines must converge to deliver clear public health guidance about how SARS-CoV-2 is spread in the air. The researchers write in the open letter that the scientific community must clarify the terminology used related to aerosols and droplets, and employ a more modern size threshold, rather than the existing one based on 1930s-era work. Authors include experts from the University of California San Diego, University of Maryland, Virginia Tech, and others. Public health officials should make a clear distinction between droplets ejected by coughing or sneezing - which have inspired the social distancing mantra of six feet of separation between people - and aerosols that can carry the virus for much greater distances. Viruses in aerosols smaller than 100 microns can remain airborne in a confined space for prolonged periods of time, and accumulate in poorly ventilated air, leading to transmission. "The balance of attention must be shifted to protecting against airborne transmission," said the group, led by Kimberly Prather, Director of the National Science Foundation-funded Center for Aerosol Impacts on Chemistry of the Environment based at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego. "Viruses in aerosols can remain suspended in air for many seconds to hours, like smoke, and be inhaled," according to the letter. "They are highly concentrated near an infected person, so they can infect people most easily in close proximity. But aerosols containing infectious virus can also travel more than [two meters] and accumulate in poorly ventilated indoor air, leading to superspreading events." In addition to mask wearing, social distancing and hygiene efforts, the researchers urge for public health officials to articulate the importance of moving activities outdoors, improving indoor air using ventilation and filtration, and improving protection for high risk workers. "The goal of this letter is to make it clear that the SARS-Cov-2 virus travels in the air and people can become infected via inhalation," said Prather, a distinguished professor who holds a joint appointment between UC San Diego's Scripps Institution of Oceanography and its Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. "It is important to acknowledge this pathway so efforts can focus on cleaning the air and providing guidance on how to avoid risky indoor settings." Co-author Linsey Marr, the Charles P. Lunsford Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Virginia Tech and an expert on airborne transmission of viruses, added, It is important for people to wear masks at all times in public buildings and confined spaces, not only when we cant maintain social distance. This isnt just an academic question, but a point that will help reduce transmission if public health officials offer clear and forceful guidance about this. ### Along with Prather and Marr, letter authors include physicians Robert Schooley of UC San Diego School of Medicine, Melissa McDiarmid and Donald Milton of the University of Maryland, and Mary Wilson of the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The letter's authors will hold a virtual press conference at 2:30 p.m. ET/ 11:30 a.m. PT on Monday, October 5. Reply via this form to RSVP for the virtual press conference. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the virtual press conference If you are not able to attend the virtual press conference but would like a copy of the recording after the conclusion of the press conference, please email mediarelations-g@vt.edu for link. Two Virginia Tech professors are part of a team focused on developing new technology for the virtual world: a full-body experience in a fully electronic environment. The project is funded by a $1.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation. Virginia Tech contributors are Professor Alex Leonessa from the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Associate Professor Divya Srinivasan from the Grado Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. They are joining forces with Eric Jing Du, a professor from University of Florida, and industry partner HaptX. Virtual reality has been a technological pie-in-the-sky development for decades. Movies and television shows have fueled imagination and inspired commercial developments, but the expectation created by fantasy has yet to find its full realization. While science fiction often presents the idea as fully immersive, casting ideas, such as Star Trek's holodeck and the world of the Matrix, VR has been a heavily visual experience. The addition of gloves allowed users to interact within virtual environments in ways that expanded the virtual reality world, adapted for video games in developments such as the Nintendo Power Glove and the cyber glove. NASA adapted this approach as well, building its Virtual Interface Environment Workstation in 1990 for an operator to physically move objects from a remote location. In each of these experiences, a user would watch their virtual hands perform virtual tasks in a virtual environment. The feedback to a user remained visual. In recent years, such developments as HaptX Gloves have added an additional dimension to the experience: a virtual environment that returns a touch response to a user's hand. Programmed microfluidic pockets within gloves respond based on the actions in a virtual environment, creating a tactile response in addition to a visual one. A user would not just experience the virtual world visually, they would also feel weight, shape, and texture across their hand and fingertips. The next step Being able to move around a virtual environment presents its own set of challenges. Video games normally accomplish this by using joysticks or keypads, meaning that a user is essentially pushing buttons with their fingers to achieve virtual reality walking. Other input devices, such as pads and devices that fit like shoes, require some form of walking in place to input the motion. Virginia Tech is working with University of Florida and HaptX to bring together motion, touch response, visual interaction, and more. The hopeful result is a full-body virtual reality rig that allows users to see the environment through a headset, achieve touch via the HaptX gloves, and both walk and interact by using an exoskeleton. The project is called ForceBot, drawing on the term "force feedback," the general classification of controls that impact objects in the virtual environment. Responsive robotics working with a user's feet would allow walking, simulate changes in terrain, and move a user through the electronic world. Additional robotics in a hand and arm rig would provide resistance for pushing and pulling simulated solid objects, while the HaptX gloves complete the experience with touch response. The visual headset would allow a user to see the electronic environment unfold before them. "We are excited to have the opportunity to develop a fully immersive virtual reality experience, providing realistic full-body interactions," said Leonessa. "Virtual reality is a familiar technology, but the untapped potential it holds is vast." ### In the weeks since, the Buffalo man filed a handwritten motion asking that Cotter be replaced as his attorney. Cotter wrote his own motion asking to be removed from the case because his relationship with his client "is beyond repair." Flynn, who has declined to comment on the federal court documents, isn't happy news about the suspects has emerged. Its no criticism of the feds. But, obviously, Im not pleased that its out there that the feds have two people in custody who are suspects, Flynn told reporters on Aug. 25. I dont want that out there in any case. So Im not happy about that. But its no fault on (the U.S. Attorney's Office) at all. They do what they have to do to protect their own case and keep the people in jail. The Buffalo man and the North Tonawanda man have been arrested together previously, including in a murder and robbery case that did not lead to a conviction. The North Tonawanda man was taken into custody on Sept. 11 after police put his Center Avenue home under surveillance as part of their investigation into an August 2019 homicide in Tonawanda that sources say is a reference to the Cretacci slaying. The buzz around Paytm competing against Google's Play Store isn't an apple to apple comparison. Mostly because Google's Play Store is a platform of thousands of apps, and comes preinstalled on all Android smartphones, giving users an option to download the ones they want. Whereas, on Paytm platform, these are primarily custom-built mobile website that gives users app-like experience without having to download them. To start with, Paytm has a few hundred developers onboard. "This is a mini-app store and not an app store. Essentially, without investing a lot of technology bandwidth developers can create their mini web applications, which gives end-user an app-like experience, and can be integrated with Paytm. Any developer needs two things - distribution and payment - and we are offering both, including the entire distribution of Paytm at zero per cent fee along with payments for free," says Narendra Yadav, Vice President, Paytm. ALSO READ: Paytm takes on Google Play Store, launches its own mini-app store Unlike the Google Play Store where apps are available for download on Android smartphones, the core implementation of Paytm's Mini App Store is a web-based service within the Paytm app. As soon as a user clicks on the respective app icon, the new window pop-us within the Paytm app. One can use the app service, and continue to pay using the Paytm wallet, Paytm Payments Bank account and UPI at zero charges, and other instruments like credit cards (2 per cent charge would be levied). "Paytm is not only trying to create an App Store alternative but entering into a territory of creating the "Super App" platform. We have seen the success of WeChat in China, Gojek in the South East Asia market, where users of one platform can have access to all other mini-app to avail other services," says Pavel Naiya, Senior Analyst, Devices and Ecosystem, Counterpoint Research. Paytm has created this digital infrastructure to enable small developers and businesses to set up HTML and JavaScript based low-cost, quick-to-build mini apps. Paytm's Mini App Store is similar to the Spot platform powered by Google Pay, that allows developers to set up a digital storefront, brand and host however they choose to. And even this is built using HTML and JavaScript. The idea behind adopting HTML and JavaScript is to minimise developer expenses as the existing investments into mobile websites or PWAs can be easily transformed into by adding a few lines of JavaScript. This facilitates a scalable solution while keeping the digital experience consistent. ALSO READ: Paytm, other Indian start-ups vow to fight 'big daddy' Google's clout "By leveraging modern web capabilities, the Paytm Mini App Store essentially provides a collection of custom mobile websites that deliver app-like user experiences for dedicated Paytm users through its app," says Prabhu Ram, Head-Industry Intelligence Group (IIG), CMR. Also, mini apps work best for non-essential app categories where users often installed them for non-frequent use. Web app interface will remove hurdles for users to install these apps and also reduce the churn rate for non-frequent users. "Looking at the long-term perspective, as the number of connected devices and digital services is increasing, it is therefore not possible to have a separate app for each service. Eventually, users will only install some small numbers of essential apps for regular use and all other services will be web-based. It, therefore, makes perfect business sense to use Paytm's existing user base as a platform to offer new over-the-top services," adds Naiya. Clarifying on the security concerns and data breach issue that may arise in the future, "as soon as the user hits the mini app storefront, they are directed to the developer's site, server. All user data remains with the respective app developer and not with Paytm," clarified Yadav. With this new initiative, Paytm aims to drive the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission while keeping the digital consumer spends within India. ALSO READ: Revised promotion helps Paytm relaunch Cricket League cashback offer Villagers gathered outside as the Congress leaders entered the family's home. Some were seen on the rooftops nearby, waiting to catch a glimpse of the Congress leaders. (Image: Twitter/@INCIndia) In a state where its influence has been relegated to the margins, Congress is now trying to maintain a sustained momentum to the protests against the alleged rape and murder of a 19-year-old Dalit woman in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, with some party leaders of the opinion that the party's stance could revive its fortunes in the state, Hindustan Times has reported. Senior Congress leaders, including Kerala chief minister Oommen Chandy, compared the visit by Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to Hathras to former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's visit to Belchi in Bihar in 1977. Indira Gandhi had reached Belchi, where 10 Dalits had been massacred, by train, jeep, tractor and elephant. The Belchi visit, according to reports, helped Congress storm to power three years later in the 1980 Assembly elections. Similar to that, the Gandhi siblings, while on their way to Hathras, had been detained and reportedly manhandled, for which the UP Police had to apologise. The challenge, however, for the Grand Old Party now is to maintain the momentum it has managed to leverage until the Assembly elections in 2022. Party leaders have said that the incident has to be highlighted aggressively, particularly in the forthcoming elections in Bihar and other states, where by-polls are scheduled. "The Hathras incident has shocked India. It has highlighted the state of affairs in UP. Such incidents take place almost every day in the state and law and order has completely collapsed. The BJP government wants to brazen it out but this will not be allowed," said senior Congress leader Jitin Prasada. "Politics is one thing and the other is actually feeling for the aggrieved. We will be doing what an opposition party has to do but this incident is heart-breaking. We will not allow the BJP government to go unchecked in UP," he added. While Congress and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have traded charges, the two main regional parties of the state-- Samajwadi Party (SP) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)-- have not been as active, reports suggest. This, experts have said, might give a chance to Congress to bounce back. Red Bull is no longer ruling out replacing Alex Albon. Until very recently, the energy drink-owned marque has been strongly backing the British-born Thai driver amid calls for him to be replaced. But now, top drivers Sergio Perez and Nico Hulkenberg are on the market, just as Albon's recent improvement hit a snag with a poor outing at Sochi. "If Alex Albon performs well, he stays," Dr Helmut Marko, the architect of Red Bull's notorious driver program, told Speed Week. "If not, there will be a deliberation," he added when asked about Perez and Hulkenberg's candidatures. "We would then see which good drivers are on the market. But that's not an issue at the moment," said Marko. Also possible is that, in light of Honda's shock decision to quit Formula 1, Red Bull might also be needing to fill Max Verstappen's cockpit. However, former F1 driver Christijan Albers doubts that. "As long as Hamilton continues to drive for Mercedes, I see no opportunity for Verstappen to go there," he told De Telegraaf. "Not because Max doesn't want it, because he wouldn't care, but because Lewis Hamilton would never allow it." (GMM) Pune, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The increasing demand for clean energy to reduce carbon emissions is driving the global reverse flame steam boiler market says Fortune Business Insights in a report, titled Reverse Flame Steam Boiler Market Size, Share And Global Trend By Capacity (Up to 100kW, 100-1000 kW, Above 1000 kW), By End-Use (Food Industry, Chemical Industry, Refineries, Metal Industry, Power Plant), And Geography Forecast Till 2026.Higher operating efficiency and greater heat transfer area with the use of flame steam boiler is a factor enabling the growth of the global reverse flame steam boiler market. An Overview of the Impact of COVID-19 on this Market: The emergence of COVID-19 has brought the world to a standstill. We understand that this health crisis has brought an unprecedented impact on businesses across industries. However, this too shall pass. Rising support from governments and several companies can help in the fight against this highly contagious disease. There are some industries that are struggling and some are thriving. Overall, almost every sector is anticipated to be impacted by the pandemic. We are taking continuous efforts to help your business sustain and grow during COVID-19 pandemics. Based on our experience and expertise, we will offer you an impact analysis of coronavirus outbreak across industries to help you prepare for the future. Click here to get the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this market. Please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/reverse-flame-steam-boiler-market-100563 Top Players Overview: Some of the leading players operating in the global Reverse Flame Steam Boiler market include: Atlantic Boilers ATTSU BoilerTech Bosch Industriekessel Byworth Boilers ICI Caldaie Spirax-Sacro Engineering Viessmann Werke Gmbh Co Kg Zhengzhou Boiler Sazboilers Balkrishna Hurstboiler CFB Boilers Unical Babcock Wanson SA Request a Sample Copy for more detailed Reverse Flame Steam Boiler Market Overview - https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/reverse-flame-steam-boiler-market-100563 Installation of Advanced Biomass Boiler by Trelleborg Will Facilitate Growth Trelleborg AB, a global engineering group focused on polymer technology, based in Trelleborg, Sweden, announced the re-engineering of the steam production process at its Sri Lanka plant and introduction of an advanced biomass boiler. The introduction of the new boiler is likely to boost the global reverse flame steam boiler growth owing to the boiler ability to reduce carbon emissions by over 90%. Further, the launch of the gas-fired combined-cycle power plant is also likely to contribute to the global reverse flame steam boiler revenue. For instance, Longview Power President and CEO Jeff Keffer announced about their companys plans to start a gas-fired combined cycle power plant near its existing coal plant. As the company is not into coal business this coal plant would be the last of its kind and from here the gas power plant would be further developed and used by the company for power generation. Furthermore, the increasing demand for clean energy to reduce the harmful effects on the environment and also reduce carbon emission is a factor driving the global reverse flame steam boiler market. Reverse flame steam boilers have higher efficiency as compared to traditional boilers due to the high heat transfer area and reduced fuel consumption. This factor is likely to fuel demand which in turn will enable growth of the global reverse flame steam boiler market. However, the high initial cost of installation of the reverse flame steam boiler and the high maintenance cost are factors restricting the flow of reverse flame steam boiler revenue. Moreover, the efficiency of these boilers gradually reduces with time which prompts the need for replacement, this aspect can repel the investors from investing in these boilers thus acting as a growth restraint of the global reverse flame steam boiler market. Ask for Customization: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/customization/reverse-flame-steam-boiler-market-100563 Increasing Utilization of Biomass as Fuel Will Enable Growth in Europe Geographically, the global reverse flame steam boiler market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. Europe is predicted to dominate the global reverse flame steam boiler market owing to the increasing use of natural gas and biomass as a fuel for boilers. Further, the adoption from traditional steam boilers to refined and energy-saving biomass-fired reverse flame steam boilers in countries such as Italy is driving the market in the region. Asia Pacific is expected to grow at a significant rate owing to the adoption of clean energy in countries such as China and India. The drift towards the clean source of energy in the USA and investment in gas-fired plants is likely to aid expansion of reverse flame steam boiler market in North America. Key Segmental Overview: By Capacity By End-Use By Geography The information used is derived from various primary and secondary sources. It also throws light on some of the major players operating in the market. The report studies profiles of these leading companies and their share in the market. It provides insights on some of the strategies adopted by these companies to survive the competition and maintain their stronghold. Regional Analysis: North America (The USA and Canada) Europe (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia and Rest of Europe) Asia Pacific (China, India, Australia, Southeast Asia and Rest of Asia Pacific) Latin America (Brazil, Mexico and Rest of Latin America) Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC and Rest of the Middle East & Africa) Pre Book Reverse Flame Steam Boiler Market Report @ https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/100563 Have a Look at Related Research Insights: Power Rental Market Size, Share and Industry Analysis By Rating (Below 75 KVA, 75 375 KVA, 375 750 KVA, Above 750 KVA), By Fuel Type (Diesel, Natural Gas and LPG, Others), By Application (Continuous, Stand By, Peak Load), By End-Use (Mining, Construction, Utility, Events, Manufacturing, Oil and Gas, Others) and Geography Forecast, 2019 - 2026 Offshore Wind Power Market Size, Share and Industry Analysis By Installation (Fixed Structure, Floating Structure), By Water Depth (Up to 30m, Above 30m), By Capacity (Up to 3MW, 3MW to 5MW, Above 5MW) and Regional Forecast, 2019-2026 High Voltage Cables Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Installation (Overhead, Underground, Submarine), By Voltage (100 kV 250 kV, 251 kV 400 kV, Above 400 kV), By End-User (Industrial, Utility) and Regional Forecast, 2019-2026 Zero Liquid Discharge Market Size, Share and Industry Analysis, By Technology (Thermal Based, Membrane Based), By Application (Energy & Power, Food & Beverages, Chemical & Petrochemical, Textiles, Pharmaceutical, Others), and Regional Forecast, 2019 to 2026 About Us: Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in. Our reports contain a unique mix of tangible insights and qualitative analysis to help companies achieve sustainable growth. Our team of experienced analysts and consultants use industry-leading research tools and techniques to compile comprehensive market studies, interspersed with relevant data. At Fortune Business Insights, we aim at highlighting the most lucrative growth opportunities for our clients. We therefore offer recommendations, making it easier for them to navigate through technological and market-related changes. Our consulting services are designed to help organizations identify hidden opportunities and understand prevailing competitive challenges. 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Similar demonstrations were staged at many places in the US including the states of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Michigan, demanding justice for Hathras gang-rape victim. A group of non-resident Indian (NRI) Ambedkarites came together under the banner of Ambedkar International Mission (AIM) to protest the atrocity. Nearly 50 people took to the streets at Times Square and in front of the United Nations Headquarters in New York city with placards and slogans saying "Dalit Lives Matter", reported The Wire In a press release, AIM said, This barbaric incident of Hathras, further compounded with unabashed complicity from police and the government, has enraged and shaken the NRI Dalit community. The immediate and long-term consequences of this savagery, namely, institutionalising a dystopian callousness towards the safety and survival of the Dalits in India, compelled us to come out and express our outrage and apprehensions." "Through this protest, we also appeal to the international community and the United Nations Human Rights Council for their support in the struggle against rampant atrocities on Dalits in India. the statement said In Canada's Toronto, a similar peaceful protest was staged by the South Asian Dalit Adivasi Network. Victorian Liberal MP Tim Smith denies he is inciting followers to violence with his latest onslaught on the Andrews government, in which he imitates an American military campaign tactic used against Iraqs Saddam Hussein. During the invasion of Iraq in 2003, the American military handed out decks of playing cards bearing the pictures and names of the most wanted members of Saddam's murderous regime. Tim Smith's latest social media attack on Premier Daniel Andrews has been labelled "tasteless". Credit:Paul Jeffers Almost all of the 55 people pictured on the cards were eventually captured or killed, leading to the colloquial use of the term catch and kill cards. Now Mr Smith has chosen to publish his own version of a most wanted deck, replacing Saddam and his cronies with Premier Daniel Andrews and leading ministers and civil servants. An air tanker prepares to drop retardant while battling the August Complex Fire in the Mendocino National Forest last month. (Noah Berger / Associated Press) In an already unprecedented fire year, another record has been shattered: The August Complex fire has burned 1 million acres, the first wildfire in California history to have destroyed such a vast swath of land. The Northern California blaze, which began as a series of smaller lightning-sparked fires in the Mendocino National Forest, quickly morphed into a mega-fire burning across portions of Mendocino, Humboldt, Trinity, Tehama, Glenn, Lake and Colusa counties. As of Monday morning, it was 54% contained. The priority for the week will remain on the northeastern area of the blaze, which is still displaying active fire behavior, according to Christine McMorrow, a spokeswoman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The northwest zone, which is close to communities, is also an area of grave concern. #AugustComplex, burning across five counties in northern Coast Ranges, has become California's first modern "#megafire." This complex of individual fires, which have burned together into contiguous burn area, now spans 1 million acres--larger than state of Rhode Island. #CAfire pic.twitter.com/M1LzyqMR3I Daniel Swain (@Weather_West) October 5, 2020 At least 3,900 personnel have been assigned to the August Complex, including aerial and ground crews from Cal Fire and the U.S. Forest Service, as well as 138 National Guard personnel and crews from as far as Montana, Texas, Washington and New Jersey. Everybodys ready for a break, but everybodys doing what they have to do," McMorrow said of the beleaguered fire crews. "I think everybody across the state is ready for a break in the pattern that weve had for almost two months now." Story continues The August Complexs million-acre milestone arrives as California shatters yet another wildfire record of 4 million acres burned statewide more than double the previous record. At least 31 people have died in the fires and 8,200 structures have been destroyed. Tens of thousands of people have been displaced as evacuation orders remain in effect in several counties. "Our top priority is firefighter and public safety," U.S. Forest Service spokeswoman Kate White said Monday. "Its been hard for the communities who have had to go through this. We want to make sure we're doing what we can and providing the support we can." A dome of smoke, haze and ash from the wildfires is lingering over much of the state. Winemakers in Sonoma and Napa Valley, where the Glass fire has burned through 65,000 acres, have said the effects are so bad that many vineyards wont be producing a 2020 vintage. "All of them are tainted," one vintner said of his grapes. "You can taste it on the finish." In Southern California, the Bobcat fire is also producing a substantial amount of smoke. Officials with the U.S. Forest Service said the haze is coming from an active fire around Mt. Wilson but noted that it is under control and burning within containment lines. The public has been really understanding, but they are rightfully concerned when they see a plume like that, U.S. Forest Service spokesman Jim Innes said Monday. "Just hang in there for a couple more days." The Bobcat fire ignited Sept. 6 inside the Angeles National Forest and has burned through more than 115,000 acres. As of Monday, it was 88% contained, but smoke from the blaze is still contributing to poor air quality in the region. The South Coast Air Quality Management District said air quality could be unhealthy for sensitive groups Monday. Record hot, dry conditions have contributed to conflagrations throughout the state. In Northern California, more seasonal temperatures and increased chances of rain are expected to arrive later in the week, which officials said could bring some relief. "We're hoping that the weather in is in our favor and helps put a damper on some of the areas that are seeing active fire behavior," McMorrow said. But weather is only a part of the battle, as rocky terrain in several of the burn zones has also slowed firefighting efforts. "A lot of these fires are burning in pretty rough and rugged terrain, so we actually can't get a [containment] line around them," McMorrow said. "Some of these fires are going to be at 95% containment until it rains." Control over the Bobcat fire has allowed the Forest Service to release personnel from that blaze and reassign them to fires farther north. The relief can't come soon enough, McMorrow said, as the estimated containment date for the August Complex which is currently listed at Wednesday is almost certain to change. "We are in the peak of a historic fire season, so we still have a lot left to go," she said. "Just based on what I'm seeing, I would expect that full containment is going to be pushed out." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. The Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, on Sunday shed light on the roles his wife and son, Betty and Babajide, play in his government. He said none of them are employees of the state government and so do not draw remunerations from the government. Mr Akeredolu was responding to a question during the Ondo Election Debate held at the International Event Centre in Akure on Sunday. He had been accused of running a government of father, son and wife, with the implication of paying huge sums to his son as consultancy fees. Mrs Akeredolu has constantly been accused of cornering juicy contracts and controlling government agencies. The deputy governor, Agboola Ajayi, had alleged that Mr Akereolus son, Babajide, made a whopping sum of N433 million from a N4.3billion allegedly stashed in a secret account of the state government. The controversial N4.3 billion was kept in a secret account for over 10 years, generating interest until it was uncovered in May 2020 during an auditing of the state accounts. Mrs Akeredolu is known for her Breast Cancer initiative, a platform she has used to assist women suffering from breast cancer through enlightenment and financial and medical assistance. The Sunday debate was attended by Mr Akeredolu, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Eyitayo Jegede, and Oyeleye Fasua of the Social Democratic Party. Mr Akeredolu said he ran a government of the people, for the people and by the people, and dismissed the allegation of his son being paid huge sums as incorrect. He said he was, however, proud that he had a son who was assisting him in what he was doing in government. I pray that you all should have children who can be of help to you. I am happy I have a son who is helping me, that is what parents are desiring from their children, he said. My wife brought Brecan before I became governor. She has her office here and she has been helping women and touching lives even before I became governor of the state. Let anyone who has any evidence that my son collected consultancy fees produce the evidence. Let anybody come out with the evidence that my son is a consultant, instead of making baseless allegations. The governor vowed to sue those making the allegations if they fail to substantiate them. Mr Jegede was asked a personal question of his role in influencing his relatives to positions in government during the Olusegun Mimiko administration, where he served as Attorney-General for nearly eight years. In response, he said his brothers were career civil servants who rose to the pinnacle of their careers before he got into government. He, however, used the opportunity to criticise Mr Akeredolus alleged style of using his family to run the government, saying it was wrong and against the oath of office to allow his children and wife to be involved in the administration of the state. According to Mr Jegede, his wife would not be involved in the running of his government nor would he allow his children to be consultants. Mr Fasua on his part stunned the audience when he responded that he would certainly involve his wife and children in the running of government if elected governor. He argued that there would be no success if he did not get the backing of his wife and family in whatever he does. Mr Fasua said his wife remained the backbone of his businesses and she is the registrar of his college of education, which he said had produced 40,000 graduates. The debate was hosted by a consortium of media organisations, labour unions, civil societies and religious bodies. Advertisements But the deputy governor, Agboola Ajayi, who is the candidate of the Zenith Labour Party, did not attend even though he was invited by the organisers. We invited the candidates of the APC, the PDP, ZLP and the SDP for this debate and none of the candidates showed any sign that he will not attend as of one hour to the programme, Akinwunmi Abodunde, the anchor of the debate, said. Mr Ajayi had defected from the APC to the PDP to seek the governorship ticket, but failed and later secured the ticket of the ZLP. We dont have confidence in the organisers and they are not likely to be fair to our candidate, Tope Okeowo, an aide to the deputy governor, said. He said most of the media organisations and those who ran the show had sympathies for the governor. According to him, Mr Abodunde, the anchor of the debate, and members of the team are employees of the state government, noting that Mr Abodunde works for the state-owned Orange FM 104.5. If the deputy governor attended there would be trouble because the organisers are those earning money from the state government, Mr Okeowo said. You can see how the moderator favoured the governor in the distribution of the questions. The PDP candidate, Eyitayo Jegede, arrived late to the debate, citing engagements with the security chiefs in the state over the violent attacks against his supporters. A panel of federal judges has decided against consolidation of hundreds of lawsuits seeking coverage for coronavirus-related business interruption claims against major national insurers Travelers, The Hartford, Cincinnati Insurance and Lloyds. The insurers had opposed consolidation; some plaintiffs sought the merger of claims while others opposed it. The judges on the U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation did, however, approve consolidation for cases against a regional insurer, Society Insurance, into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) case. The ruling follows one in August in which the judges denied consolidation of all coronavirus-related business interruption claims industrywide, concluding that the differences among the many insurers would overwhelm any common factual questions and hinder efficient management of the litigation. However, at that time the panel left open the possibility of grouping cases not industrywide but by insurer as several parties had proposed. The judges decided they needed a better understanding of the factual commonalities and differences among these actions, as well as the efficiencies that may or may not be gained through centralization before creating insurer-specific MDLs. The MDL panel directed that four insurer groups Certain Underwriters at Lloyds of London; Cincinnati Insurance Co.; multiple Hartford insurers (including Hartford Fire, Sentinel and Twin City); and Society Insurance be given an opportunity to show cause why the actions against them should not be centralized. The judges heard arguments last month and in this final ruling have now sided with insurers in rejecting the insurer-specific MDLs idea, except in the case of one insurer. The MDL panel, chaired by Justice Karen K. Caldwell, concluded that centralization would not serve the convenience of the parties and witnesses or further the just and efficient conduct of this litigation. While centralization of these actions presents a close question ultimately the judges decided that [e]fficiency here is best obtained outside the MDL context. Rather than have one judge attempt to organize and resolve the policy interpretation issues, the judges decided that allowing the various courts where the lawsuits have been filed to decide these questions will result in quicker and more efficient resolution of this litigation. A number of judges have ruled that tangible alteration of a property is required to trigger coverage. Also how an MDL differs from a class action. There is no appeal of an MDL transfer ruling. The insurance industry welcomed the ruling. This is the correct result. There are no efficiencies to be gained by combining different insurers who write different policies for different policyholders who are in different industries and made claims under different factual scenarios, said Michael Menapace, a Connecticut insurance attorney who is a non-resident scholar at the insurer-backed Insurance Information Institute, in an emailed comment. The lawsuits involve insurance claims for coverage for business interruption losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the related government orders suspending, or severely curtailing, operations of non-essential businesses. The plaintiffs in the cases allege that their policies provide coverage for business interruption losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the related government orders suspending, or severely curtailing, operations of non-essential businesses. Insurers have mostly denied such claims largely on the basis that there is no physical damages as required under policies and that many policies specifically exclude viruses. Insurers have succeeded in having the COVID-19 lawsuits dismissed in a majority of cases thus far. In acting on the original motions in August, the panel noted it had received notice of 263 related actions. Collectively, those actions were pending in 48 districts and name more than a hundred insurers. In addition to the four major defendant insurers, others being sued in various districts include Admiral, Aspen, Auto-Owners, Oregon Mutual and Topa. The judges considered that hundreds of lawsuits were at issue in its final ruling: 143 against The Hartford; 66 against Cincinnati; 44 against Travelers, 24 against Certain Underwriters at Lloyds, and 34 against Society Insurance. Regarding Society Insurance, the judges were persuaded that because it is a regional carrier and the laws of only six states (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Tennessee and Wisconsin) are involved, this set of lawsuits makes a good candidate for an MDL. The MDL will be handled out of the Northern District of Illinois by Judge Edmond E. Chang. Motions to Centralize DALLAS A Republican congressman from Texas became the most prominent member of his party to call for the resignation of the states Republican attorney general, Ken Paxton, after Paxtons top deputies reported him to law enforcement for alleged crimes including bribery and abuse of office. Rep. Chip Roy, who was previously Paxtons second in command in the attorney generals office, said in statement Monday that his former boss must step down for the good of the people of Texas. The call for Paxtons resignation came days after seven senior lawyers in his office sent the head of human resources a letter saying they reported the attorney general to the appropriate law enforcement authority for potentially breaking the law in his official capacity. Paxton said Monday that he would not resign and he cast blame on rogue employees and their false allegations. Roys statement nonetheless signals mounting political, and possibly legal, challenges for an attorney general who has already spent most of his tenure in office maintaining his innocence in the face of a felony indictment. The letter from Paxtons top deputies did not include specifics of alleged crimes. But the claims appear to stem from a legal tangle involving a federal investigation of one of the attorney generals campaign donors and a counter-investigation by Paxtons office into the donors allegations of wrongdoing by the federal investigators. Paxton acknowledged Monday that his employees complaint arose from him appointing an outside lawyer to lead the investigation of Austin developer Nate Pauls claims that the FBI improperly searched his home and business last year. Paxton said local prosecutors referred the case to his office. Paxtons deputies reported him to law enforcement last week after becoming concerned about his relationship with Paul and how it might be affecting the investigation, according to documents obtained by Hearst Newspapers and the Austin American-Statesman. Paxton asked a Houston lawyer to act as special prosecutor in the investigation of Pauls claims, the newspapers reported. One of Paxtons deputies reportedly described the appointment as inappropriate and the Houston lawyers actions as possibly illegal. Paul gave Paxton $25,000 during his hard-fought 2018 reelection bid, campaign finance records show. Lawyers for the developer and his companies did not respond to Monday requests for comment from The Associated Press. A lawyer for Paul declined to comment to the American-Statesman. Because employees from my office impeded the investigation and because I knew Nate Paul I ultimately decided to hire an outside independent prosecutor to make his own independent determination, Paxton said in a news release. Despite the effort by rogue employees and their false allegations I will continue to seek justice in Texas and will not be resigning. The FBI declined to comment Monday. There are no public criminal charges against Paul. Roy, however, sided with the prosecutors accusing Paxton, saying that he knows several of them and their character is beyond reproach. The allegations of bribery, abuse of office, and other charges levied against him by at least 7 senior leaders of the Office of the Attorney General are more than troubling on the merits, Roy said in a news release. But, any grace for (Paxton) to resolve differences and demonstrate if the allegations are false was eliminated by his choice instead to attack the very people entrusted, by him, to lead the office. Other top Texas Republicans, including the governor and lieutenant governor, have said the allegations against Paxton are troubling but have not called for him to resign, saying an investigation should proceed. The remarkable accusation of criminal wrongdoing against Texas top law enforcement official by his own staff, including some longtime supporters of his conservative Christian politics, could deepen Paxtons legal troubles. He has spent most of his five years in office under indictment for securities fraud. Paxton pleaded not guilty and the case has stalled for years over legal challenges. One of the special prosecutors in the securities case against Paxton said Sunday evening that they would look into the new allegations against him. Paxtons defense attorney, Philip Hilder, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Paxton has managed to evade accountability for three felony-fraud indictments for six years, said said Craig McDonald, director of Texans for Public Justice, the anti-corruption nonprofit behind the 2014 complaint that led to the attorney generals indictment. Perhaps now the chickens are coming home to roost. Although Paxtons term lasts until 2022, Democrats have seized on his troubles in their effort to retake the Texas House of Representatives in the November election. Rooting out corruption is on the ballot, Manny Garcia, the Texas Democratic Partys deputy executive director, said in a statement. The double-door entrance to the Board of Commissioners room has been turned into a pair of service windows. Tables protected by transparent screens are in place for election staff to hand out applications and ballots. Voters will receive their ballot in a sleeve, sign the county register and take their ballot to the dropbox. People will be able to get their I Voted sticker, Overstreet said. For a lot of people, its really important that they get that sticker. Hall County already has sent out 8,500 applications for mail-in ballots. This exceeds the 6,000 early voters total, including early voting and mail-ins, seen in the 2016 general election during the one month early voting period. By Friday, the county already had received nearly 200 ballots. Im interested to see what kind of volume were going to have for the walk-in voters, said Overstreet, who indicated she is confident in the U.S. Postal Services ability to process the increase in mail-in applications and ballots. Subscribing to our services is a three step process. First you have to create an account and then you have to pick if you want to subscribe to digital and or print. Some people only want to be a digital subscriber to get access online and others want to also receive the print edition. If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create. Youre on mute might be the Zoom quote of the year, but on Slack at least around lunchtime it seems to be: Grabbing a quick bite. That was the daily refrain I heard from colleagues at Rice Universitys Jones Graduate School of Business, where I edit the schools alumni magazine, after we started working remotely in March. And while we were all very busy doing very important jobs, its not like we were developing a coronavirus vaccine. Was our work really so urgent that we couldnt afford to take more than a few minutes for the mid-day meal? And why were we all grabbing our lunches? Were we afraid that if we loosened our grip, someone might snatch them out of our hands? This is how downtime feels in general these days: snatched away. While working from home has given us the freedom to work in our pajamas, its also blurred the lines between work and life and deprived us of the ability to leave the office behind, physically and mentally. A May survey by the career website Monster found that half of remote workers were experiencing burnout, but roughly the same number werent planning to take time off to decompress. Thats a mistake, says Charlotte Fritz, a professor of industrial and organizational psychology at Portland State University. Even when were not in the middle of a deadly pandemic, Fritz says, its crucial to our well-being to attain what she and other researchers call psychological detachment from work meaning that we mentally let it go. Detaching requires us to take breaks, whether theyre vacations or moments of relaxation during the day. But the health crisis itself is making it harder to take the downtime we need to deal with the stress its causing. Fewer of us are planning vacations because we dont feel safe traveling. And the economic uncertainties of the pandemic are adding to a sense of pressure to be a perfect employee: highly productive and always on. Remote workers tend to take fewer breaks in general, in or out of a pandemic, in part because we cant demonstrate our work ethic in the same ways from home that we could in an office, explains Minjae Kim, an organizational behavior professor at Rices school of business. Because our interactions are so limited, we have fewer opportunities to prove our commitment and our value, Kim says. One way to do that is to show that were working overtime, or by staying on Zoom all the time. The problem is that changes to our work culture including the always on mentality many of us are feeling have a tendency to become ingrained even after the crisis that provoked them has passed. That could mean that if we let our lunch breaks slip from our grasp now, well never be able to grab hold of them again. In fact, lunchtime plays a key role in maintaining our mental stamina, says John P. Trougakos, an organizational behavior professor at the University of Toronto Scarborough. In Lunch Breaks Unpacked, Trougakos and his colleagues found that being able to disconnect from work at lunch was linked to a reduction of fatigue at the end of the workday and improved employee performance and well-being. We have a fixed amount of mental energy, just like we do physical energy, he says. When you dont have a break, you become less and less efficient, and it becomes more stressful. That stress accumulates throughout the day, and its emotionally exhausting. If it accumulates day after day, week after week, thats how you get burnout. Luckily, there are ways to make remote work more workable, Trougakos says. If remote workers structure their day well, they can find extra time for breaks. They have, in theory, more flexibility to plan out their best productivity windows. That could mean if youre a night owl, you might schedule a block of work in the evening. But that doesnt mean work your full workday and work the night shift. For their part, managers can encourage employees to take more downtime just by assuring them that they are valued and that their jobs are not in jeopardy, Kim says. Without the pressure to prove themselves, workers not only breathe easier but also perform better. And over time, as the workforce becomes increasingly remote, expectations will adjust and well likely come up with new ways to demonstrate our commitment to our work while still finding time for a leisurely lunch. Latson is an editor at Rice Business and the author of The Boy Who Loved Too Much , a nonfiction book about a genetic disorder that is sometimes called the opposite of autism. Farm laws: On Day 2, Rahul Gandhi to continue his attack on Centre India oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P New Delhi, Oct 05: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is all set to continue his attack on the Centre over the farm laws as he will begin his second round of tractor rally in Punjab today, a day after it saw massive participation from party leaders and farmers supporting the protest. On the second day of the party's 'Kheti Bachao Yatra', the Congress leader will cover a distance of 20km, beginning with a reception at Barnala Chowk in the Sangrur district, from where the Congress leader and his team will travel by car to Bhawanigarh to address a public meeting. CBI raids Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar's residence The Congress leaders will then head to Samana in Patiala district on tractors. Their receptions will be held at Fatehgarh Chhana and Bahmna, before ending the day with a public meeting at Grain Market, Samana. JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News Earlier, the Congress leader had expressed solidarity with the agrarian community on the first day of the tractor rally and called out the Centre asking if the farmers were happy why were they protesting against the legislation passed during Parliament's monsoon session. Bihar Assembly Elections 2020: Congress set to finalise list of candidates today "And if farmers are happy with these laws, then why are they agitating across the country? Why is every farmer of Punjab agitating?" he asked. He was joined by chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh, former minister Navjot Singh Sidhu, and a battery of senior Congress leaders. The chief minister urged Gandhi to bring the farmers from across India under one roof for an organised protest against the Centre. "The Akalis sold off the farmers' interests as part of the Central government, with Bathinda MP Harsimrat Badal being party to the decision as a minister. The Centre might pay MSP for a couple of crops, but eventually it would scrap the system completely," he added. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 11:05 [IST] Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Helene Dauschy with Pierre-Henry Deshayes in Oslo (Agence France-Presse) Stockholm, Sweden Mon, October 5, 2020 18:32 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c4938da6 2 Art & Culture Nobel,Nobel-Prize,Women,gender Free Marie Curie, Mother Teresa and Malala are among the just five percent of women Nobel laureates. But women are also heavily underrepresented in the institutions that select the prizewinners each year. The Nobels for medicine, physics, chemistry, literature and economics are all awarded in Sweden by separate committees, while the peace prize laureate is selected by a committee in Norway. Both Scandinavian countries pride themselves on their reputations as champions of gender equality -- yet on the Nobel committees, women make up only a quarter of members. With the exception of the peace prize committee, all are also currently headed by men. Would more women on the committees make a difference in the number of women laureates? For Olav Njolstad, secretary of the peace committee in Oslo, the answer is: probably. Since 2001, 24 women have won Nobel prizes, compared to 11 in the two decades leading up to 2000. "It is not illogical to think that there is a connection between the increasing feminization of the committees and the growing number of female laureates," he told AFP. While progress has been made in recent years, the economics prize committee has just two women out of 11 members, chemistry has three out of 10, medicine has four out of 18, and physics has only one out of seven. Even the literature committee, with two out of seven, is still far from gender parity. Eva Olsson, the lone woman on the physics committee, says "role models are important in order to inspire more young female students to study physics." But she insists that discrimination is not the issue, and says her committee's work is not affected by gender ratios. "Considering the fact that the proportion of women is low in the discipline of physics, I am not surprised that the proportion of women is lower than men," Olsson told AFP. Read also: US-British trio win Nobel Medicine Prize for Hepatitis C discovery Feminization in progress The committees vet potential candidates and propose worthy winners to the various academies entrusted with awarding the prizes. The Swedish Academy awards the literature prize, the Nobel Assembly at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm decides on medicine, and the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences is in charge of the physics, chemistry and economics prizes. The number of women in the latter's ranks is growing and "gradually improving, although slowly," Goran Hansson, secretary general of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, told AFP. For the peace prize, the five-member Norwegian Nobel Committee appointed by Norway's parliament both vets candidates and crowns the winners. It is the exception when it comes to gender parity: in recent decades women have dominated, sometimes claiming four of the five spots, even leading to jokes about the need for male quotas. This year there are however only two women, although one is the chair. In Njolstad's view, there is a simple explanation for the contrast with the science prize committees. "The scientific committees carry with them the tradition of having had more highly qualified male scientific professors until today." Appointments to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences are also for life so moving the needle is a slow process, unlike the Norwegian committee where members are elected for six-year terms. Only 15 percent of Royal Swedish Academy of Science members are currently women, but Eva Mork, the first woman to sit on the economics prize committee in 2011, noted it is "getting more and more women." As for literature, which might be considered a less male-dominated field, the Swedish Academy counts only five women among 18 members, though two seats are currently vacant due to recent deaths. Author Kristina Lugn, who passed away in May, was to have sat on this year's Nobel committee. Of the seven on the Academy's Nobel committee this year, two are women. "Our aim is gender balance... In putting together the committee a number of aspects have to be considered, and a perfect equilibrium has not been possible," the Swedish Academy's permanent secretary, Mats Malm, told AFP. The Swedish Academy's first woman permanent secretary, Sara Danius, stepped down in 2018 amid a scandal that tore the institution apart. BAGHDAD, Oct. 1, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Qi Card, the leading electronic payment solution and default national debit/credit card of Iraq, today announced a skyrocketing uptick in demand for additional points of sale (POS) kiosk systems throughout the region. The combination of new POS locations and the stark increase in usage of Qi Card's digital money transferring services are just two indicators of Qi Cards rapid growth in the region. The increase in available POS kiosks comes at a crucial time, as citizens around the world practice social distancing measures. Today, Iraqi citizens now have nearly twice as many kiosks to visit, enabling not only easier access, but the ability to avoid crowding. The record-breaking POS installations tie directly to a higher usage of Qi Card, which is by far the leading card and digital payment method for Iraqis as the country embarks on an economic digital transformation, moving away from cash and into a fintech-based model built for improving convenience and safety. Qi Card is the first fintech provider to shift the Iraqi economy away from cash. An exponentially increasing number of businesses and consumers now utilize electronic payment methods due to enhanced security and ease of use. Qi Card's solutions offer consumers flexibility and stability to perform online, in-person and person-to-person transactions. Qi Card features the latest advanced fintech, biometric identification and electronic payment system technology. Iraq is embarking on a financial revolution a revolution of inclusion and access and Qi Card is proud to be at the forefront of this movement. To learn more about the Mastercard Qi Card, visit www.qi.iq About Qi Card Qi Card is the leading electronic payment services solution in Iraq, which employs biometric identity as the cardholder verification method. Qi Card is operated and managed by International Smart Card "ISC," the most successful partnership in the history of Iraq. With its State Bank partners, Al-Rafidain and Al-Rashed, it has completed domiciliation of more than 7M citizens with its multi-biometric payment scheme. In just over 18 months, ISC was able to disburse 3T IQD in loans to over 800,000 Iraqi citizens. To date, ISC has an ecosystem of 17,000 POS and more than 6,000 merchants using the Qi scheme to provide easy merchant funded installment and other commercial activities. ISC issues and acquires payment cards on behalf of fourteen affiliated banks in Iraq. Through its principal membership in Mastercard, ISC has now issued more than 1.8M Mastercard and is now the largest Mastercard provider in Iraq. SOURCE Qi Card Related Links http://www.qi.iq The Central Bureau of Investigation has registered a case against Karnataka Congress chief D K Shivakumar for allegedly amassing disproportionate assets worth Rs 74.93 crore and carried out searches at 14 locations on Monday during which the agency claimed to have recovered Rs 57 lakh cash, officials said. IMAGE: KPCC president D K Shivakumar along with his brother D K Suresh addresses a press conference after a CBI raid at his residence in Bengaluru, on Monday. Photograph: Shailendra Bhojak/PTI Photo The case was registered after a seven-month-long preliminary enquiry looking into disproportionate assets of Shivakumar amassed in his and his family members' name during his tenure as a minister in the Karnataka government, the CBI alleged. The input about the disproportionate assets was provided by the Enforcement Directorate to the Karnataka government which handed over the probe to the CBI, the CBI first information report said. The CBI has calculated assets held and acquired, and expenditure incurred by Shivakumar and his family members between April 1, 2013 and April 30, 2018 called as check period. According to the CBI FIR, Shivakumar and his family members held assets to the tune of Rs 33.92 crore, as per election affidavit, at the beginning of the check period which swelled to Rs 162.53 crore at the end. The agency has alleged that after taking into account expenditure and income during the period, Shivakumar and family members have assets worth Rs 74.93 crore, about 44.93 per cent of total income during the period, which are disproportionate to known sources of income. This is the first case by the CBI against Shivakumar, Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President and an MLA, who was earlier arrested by the Enforcement Directorate in a case of alleged money laundering, they said. The Congress hit out at the BJP-led central government, accusing it of 'witch-hunt', and linked the CBI action to the November 3 by-election in two assembly seats in Karnataka. The BJP rejected the charges and said Shivakumar should answer the agencies on the source of his assets. After registering the case provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act, the CBI teams searched at 14 locations spread across Karnataka, Maharashtra and Delhi. Nine locations in Karnataka, four in Delhi and one in Mumbai were searched by the CBI which also included the residence of Shivakumar at Safdarjung Enclave and that of his brother D K Suresh, a member of parliament, in Kaveri Apartments in the national capital and their residences in Bengaluru, they said. 'Searches were conducted today at 14 locations including Karnataka, Delhi, Mumbai at the premises of said MLA (Shivakumar) and others which led to the recovery of cash of Rs 57 lakh(approx) and several incriminating documents including property documents, bank related information, computer hard disk, etc. Investigation is continuing,' CBI spokesperson R K Gaur said in a statement. Shivakumar, who was appointed chief of the Congress' Karnataka state unit in March this year, had been a minister in the Siddaramaiah Government of the Congress as well as the Janata Dal (Secualr)-Congress Government led by H D Kumaraswamy. The CBI action drew flak from Congress leaders who questioned its timing as the by-election to Sira and R R Nagar assembly segments in Karnataka is to be held on November 3. Party workers protested against the CBI in front of Shivakumar's residence in Bengaluru and various places in the state. Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala termed it 'raid raj' and a 'Machiavellian move' by the Bharatiya Janata Party government. 'The insidious game of intimidation & machinations of Modi-Yeddyurappa duo being executed by a puppet CBI by raiding @DKShivakumar won't deter us. 'CBI should be unearthing the layers of corruption in Yeddyurappa Govt. But, 'Raid Raj' is their only 'Machiavellian Move'!,' Surjewala said on Twitter. 'Let Modi & Yeddyurappa Govts & BJP's frontal organizations i.e CBI-ED-Income Tax know that Congress workers & leaders will not be cowed down nor bow down before such devious attempts. Our resolve to fight for people & expose BJP's maladministration only becomes stronger,' he tweeted. Congress Legislature Party leader Siddaramaiah alleged that the BJP has always tried to indulge in vindictive politics and mislead public attention. 'The latest CBI raid on @KPCCPresident @DKShivakumar's house is another attempt to derail our preparation for bypolls. I strongly condemn this,' he tweeted. Congress spokesperson A S Ponnanna, who is also a senior advocate of the Karnataka high court, questioned the searches, claiming that it was against the direction of the court. "I'm surprised politics is down to this level... CBI has to function under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, under which if they have to come to a state and investigate, they have to get permission from the state government, the permission that was given has been questioned by Shivakumar," he said. "The court had said do not precipitate, what I have understood from this is- they (CBI) should have not have acted. "They should have got it vacated from the court and acted, after permission from the court," Ponnanna, who served as an additional advocate general during the Congress government, said, adding that the investigation should be fair and lawful. Countering the allegations, BJP national general Secretary C T Ravi said Shivakumar should cooperate with the CBI in its investigation. Ravi, a former Karnataka minister, said, "The CBI is doing its work. If the Congress leader is clean, he should cooperate and tell the truth." He also sought to know if Shivakumar's economic growth was natural as his assets grew 'from Rs 75 crore in 2008 to Rs 250 crore in 2013 and Rs 840 crore in 2018'. "You can respond to political issues standing in the street, but about the illegal acquisition of money or illegal transfer of money, one has to respond to CBI or ED," the BJP leader said. "There is no problem in making assets, but one needs to reveal the source of the money. If crores of rupees are kept in the name of his daughter who is still studying, he ought to respond to the CBI," Ravi added. Earlier, the ED had arrested Shivakumar in September last year on charges of money laundering. He was released from jail on October 23 after the Delhi high court granted him bail The PMLA case against him and others was slapped on the basis of a charge sheet (prosecution complaint) filed by the Income Tax Department in 2018 before a special court in Bengaluru on charges of alleged tax evasion and hawala transactions worth crores. The I-T department has accused Shivakumar and his alleged associates of transporting a huge amount of unaccounted cash regularly through 'hawala' channels with the help of three other accused. The former Karnataka cabinet minister played an instrumental role in ensuring the safe stay of Gujarat Congress MLAs in a Karnataka resort during the Rajya Sabha polls in 2017 amid allegations that the BJP was trying to poach them. Congress president Sonia Gandhi's political secretary Ahmed Patel had fought the Rajya Sabha election from Gujarat in 2017 and Shivakumar had hosted 44 Gujarat Congress MLAs at the resort to keep the flock together. The ED had questioned his daughter Aishwarya too in this case after she was summoned to appear in Delhi. DUBLIN, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Power Tool Accessories - Global Outlook and Forecast 2020-2025" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The power tools accessories market by revenue is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 6% during the period 2019-2025. The global power tool accessories market is expected to witness growth after the post-2020. Rapid industrialization and increasing applications in households and commercial sectors are primarily driving the power tool accessories set. These sets are primarily used in industries such as automobile, aerospace, construction, electronics, and shipbuilding. The growth in the use and demand for Li-ion batteries along with the rise in infrastructural developments have surged the demand for cordless power tools and batteries. The industrial sector is the largest end-user followed by commercial and residential segments. The spread of the COVID-19 pandemic across the globe in early 2020 has deeply plummeted the demand from end-user industries, especially from construction, automotive, and electronics. All new and running projects have come to a standstill. While a few industry experts are optimistic, the market is expected to grow from Q3 2020. Power Tool Accessories Market Segmentation The global power tool accessories market research report includes a detailed segmentation by accessory type, end-user, and geography. The drill bits segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 5% during the period 2019-2025. The application of corded and battery-operated drill accessories has penetrated in DIY enthusiasts. Circular saw blades constituted the second dominant segment as they are mostly used for wooden and metal works that need precision cutting. They are used in DIY activities as most vendors offer user-friendly cutting tools for home improvement and wood-crafting activities. The screwdriver bits segment is expected to pose an absolute growth of 36% during the forecast period. Screwdriver bits are finding their application in drilling. They are one of the best-selling accessories in the residential segment. Jigsaw blades, which are extensively used for renovation and retrofit activities in construction sites, are expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.03%. North America is the leading country owing to infrastructural development activities in countries such as the US and Canada. Bandsaw blades, which are finding adoption among woodworkers, generated over $1 billion in 2019. The segment is projected to witness steady growth as the culture of DIY is spreading in APAC and Latin America. Reciprocating saw blades are likely to observe incremental revenue of $565 million by 2025. North America is projected to continue its dominance during the forecast period owing to the rise in end-user applications, especially in shipbuilding, manufacturing, and automotive end-users. The construction segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 6% during the period 2019-2025. The global construction industry is likely to grow by 85% in 2030, with China, the US, and India expecting to lead the market. Along with new public and residential construction activities, renovation and retrofit activities will add further demand for power tools over the next five years. The automotive industry segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of over 6% in the APAC region. This is due to the extensive use of drillers and fastening tools with bits and batteries for assembly activities. The industry also makes an extensive use of heat guns, glue guns, cutting tools, which further widen the utilization of accessories. The increased application of precision parts and the rising global consumer traffic are expected to drive the demand for power tool accessories in the aerospace industry. Battery driven wireless precision power tools are projected to drive the pneumatic mold tools market. The commercial end-user segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 6% during the period 2019-2025. The rise in hotel and shopping malls construction is expected to drive the market growth. North America was the largest revenue generator in the segment. The growing volume of renovation retrofit activities in the commercial sector is driving the growth of the segment. INSIGHTS BY VENDORS The global power tool accessories market is characterized by low market concentration, with high competition among players. The present scenario is driving vendors to alter and refine their unique value propositions to achieve a strong market presence. Currently, the power tool accessories market is highly fragmented and is dominated by vendors such as Stanley Black & Decker, Bosch, and TTI alongside numerous domestic tool manufacturers that produce accessories in several shapes and designs. Major vendors have a global presence in three major regions - North America, APAC, and Europe. The market confronts the threat of infiltration with low-quality products, thereby increasing the level of proliferation in the industry. Major vendors also continually compete for the leading position in the market, with occasional spurts of competition coming from local vendors. Market Dynamics Covid-19 Impact Market Opportunities & Trends Growing Prominence Of Asian Manufacturing Industry 4.0 & Smart Precision Manufacturing Growth In Construction Industry Market Growth Enablers Development In Li-Ion Batteries Rising Home Improvement & DIY Activities Rising Application Of Fastening Tools Market Restraints Availability Of Hand Tools & Low-Cost Labor Fluctuations In Raw Material Prices End-User Variability Prominent Vendors Black & Decker Robert Bosch Techtronic Industries Company (TTI) Makita Hilti Other Prominent Vendors Apex Tool Group Snap-on Koki Holdings Fortive Positec Chervon Fein FERM AIMCO Festool CS Unitec Dynabrade Husqvarna Stihl Blount KYOCERA INTERSKOL Panasonic URYU SEISAKU Atlas Copco Ingersoll Rand Emerson For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/y6ivlj Research and Markets also offers Custom Research services providing focused, comprehensive and tailored research. Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior Manager [email protected] For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470 For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 SOURCE Research and Markets Related Links http://www.researchandmarkets.com (AI) has massive potential to generate and India is well-poised to tap into the opportunity with its large pool of skilled professionals, IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said on Monday. Speaking at the 'RAISE 2020 Summit', Prasad also said the proposed data protection legislation will give a big fillip to the country's data economy. Prasad further said AI would become "meaningful" only when it brings in a "palpable improvement" in the quality of life of ordinary Indians. "Technology keeps on evolving... we welcome AI because it has enormous potential to generate and also bring in further equity and delivery...We also want AI to further promote that inclusive character of development," he said. Stating that Indian IT companies are globally competitive, Prasad exuded confidence that the country's large pool of skilled professionals would help manage not only India's AI ecosystem but also that of the world. The minister cited the examples of Ayushman Bharat, GST and direct benefit transfer (DBT) to highlight how the government has used technology to deliver public services. "In the direct benefit transfer, we have transferred close to USD 172 billion into more than 370 million bank accounts of poor for various welfare measures and we have saved close to USD 23 billion, which used to be pocketed by middlemen... About 10.6 million farmers (are) using e-market to sell their farm produce," he said. Prasad said the government is crafting the data protection law after a wide consultation process. He added that the bill -- expected to be passed by Parliament soon -- is an amalgamation of efforts to ensure data privacy, safety, security as well as data innovation. "And most importantly, it will give a big fillip to the data economy, which India is poised to offer...India's application of AI will become a beacon for the world," he emphasised. Speaking at the summit, Raj Reddy, former co-chair, US President's Information Technology Advisory Committee, said the government, industry and academia should work together to create the necessary Indian language datasets, translation systems and dialogue apps. (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.) WILMINGTON, Del. Lauren Witzke, a dabbler in QAnon, a self-proclaimed flat earther and the Republican Partys nominee in Delaware for the Senate, was exhorting her supporters last month to Go get em America First, as they squared off against a handful of Black Lives Matter protesters. Gathered with her in the parking lot of the Republican Party headquarters here was a self-appointed security guard with a gun on his hip, a political adviser whose losing clients include candidates accused of racism and anti-Semitism, and a smattering of Proud Boys, the far-right brawlers whom President Trump told to stand back and stand by. Ms. Witzkes ascent in Joseph R. Biden Jr.s home state may be the nadir of the Delaware Republican Partys rapid swerve from patrician moderation to the far-right fringe. And its plunge from power to irrelevance is an object lesson for other states like Colorado, Oregon and California, where Republicans running statewide are facing a choice: Appeal to the vocal extreme or find some way to assemble a more centrist coalition that could actually elect them. Ten years ago, Michael Castle, a former Republican governor, was supposed to be a shoo-in for the Senate seat that Mr. Biden gave up to become vice president. Then he was blindsided in the Republican primary by Christine ODonnell, a Tea Party candidate with a sideline in witchcraft who was crushed in the general election by Chris Coons, a relatively unknown Democratic county executive, by a vote of 57 percent to 40 percent. Farmers and landowners negotiating with telecoms firms over the siting of phone masts and equipment on their property have been strengthened by a new legal ruling. In EE Ltd/Hutchison 3G Ltd v Duncan & Others 2020 the Scottish Lands Tribunal dismissed an application by phone operators to replace an existing lease with a new agreement under the Electronic Communications Code. Instead of continuing with the existing agreement on tacit relocation a Scots law principle in which leases continue from year to year on the same conditions as previously they served a Notice under Paragraph 33 of the Code, requesting a completely new lease. Concluding that the operators had not put forward a relevant case as to why they should be granted a new Code lease at renewal, the Tribunal dismissed their application. The Tribunal noted the Code gave it discretion to determine certain rights, such as to modify an agreement instead of replacing it. However, as the application was for a completely new lease, the Tribunal concluded it must either approve or reject the application. The Tribunal also confirmed there is nothing wrong with an operator who can't justify the replacement of an old Code agreement remaining bound by that agreement. Property consultancy Galbraith said the case concluded that the operators needed to provide a justifiable reason for requiring a new lease at renewal rather than continuing with the terms of the existing lease. "They cant just have one just because the new code is more advantageous to them," said Mike Reid, head of energy at Galbraith. According to Mr Reid, some landowners will have already signed up to new leases on renewal as a result of an approach from a Code operator threatening Tribunal action if they dont agree to the terms proposed. He said those owners will probably now be receiving substantially less rent and have poorer lease terms than their previous lease as a result. Although this decision shows that, in many cases, these owners probably did not need to agree to the operators proposals, Mr Reid added. He said: Landowners approached about a lease renewal should ask operators to justify why the existing lease, which may have been operating successfully for 20 years, needs to be changed." Mr Reid explained that in my cases a change to a new code lease may be difficult to justify. The operators may appeal the decision and there is still a pending case on whether an operator already in occupation can obtain Code rights under Paragraph 20, which if successful would give the operators an alternative option for obtaining a new lease at lease renewal. However, that would reverse the Court of Appeal decision in CTIL v Compton Beauchamp Estates Ltd so success is not guaranteed. Mr Reid sounded a note of caution: Although the operators application was dismissed as a completely new lease was proposed without adequate justification, in some circumstances there is likely to be a justifiable case for an operator requesting appropriate changes to bring an agreement into line with the new Code. New Delhi, Oct 5 : The first half of financial year 2021, April-September, has turned out to be the best first half for Nifty in the last decade, aided by low base post the correction in March. Motilal Oswal Institutional Equities said in a report that the market rally is more broad-based as the Nifty has given best 6-month return since October 2009. The 12 month price performance differential between the Nifty 50 v/s the Nifty's Equal weight index indicates that the market rally has been more broad-based over the past six months. 1HFY21 has turned out to be the best 1H for the Nifty in a decade with the Nifty delivering 31 per cent returns, the report said. The broad-basing of markets after almost three years of polarization augurs well as the recovery in underlying economy takes shape, it added. Mid and Small-Cap indices have once again outperformed Nifty in September. In the BSE-200, BFSI dominates list of laggards in calendar year 2020 year to date. 53 per cent of BSE-200 companies yielded negative returns in September while in year to date, 59 per cent of BSE-200 constituents declined and financials were the major laggards. In the BSE-200 index, 21 stocks up more than 10 per cent in September, 63 stocks up more than 10 per cent year to date. 94 out of BSE-200 constituents gained in September with 21 stocks posting more than 10 per cent gains. In the year, 82 BSE-200 constituents gave positive returns with 34 stocks returning more than 30 per cent, 20 of these 34 stocks are either tech or pharma. In the Nifty, year to date top three performers are pharma majors. In CY20 YTD, 20 Nifty stocks have delivered positive returns with Reddy's and Divi's gaining 80 per cent and 65 per cent, respectively. The report says 22 per cent of Small-cap companies have doubled since March lows. 11 per cent of Large-cap companies and 14 per cent of Mid-cap companies have more than doubled since March. Covid has resulted in Bank Nifty's relative outperformance versus Nifty to collapse. Bank Nifty had outperformed the Nifty over March 2016 to December 2019. However, the entire outperformance has been wiped out over the last six months as the BFSI segment is facing the maximum brunt of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Nifty-50's market cap is at an all-time high now. However, the Nifty Mid-cap 100's market cap is still down 24 per cent from its peak, although it is above December 2019 level. NEW HAVEN American Airlines, which announced Aug. 20 that it will suspend service to Tweed New Haven Regional Airport, plans to resume flights between Tweed and Charlotte, N.C. Nov. 5, assuming Congress approves assistance to U.S. airlines, Tweed Executive Director Sean Scanlon said Monday. They told us back in September that they were going to suspend us in October. But they always said they were going to try to restore our service in November, contingent on the industry getting some support from the federal government, Scanlon said. That has now been confirmed in Americans schedule, which added New Haven flights back beginning with one flight a day each way on Nov. 5, he said. While it was expected, Its a good sign for us, though, Scanlon said. The CARES Act required airlines to maintain a minimum level of service in the communities they patronized before the pandemic through Sept. 30. The other 14 cities losing American Airlines service included Williamsport, Pa.; Springfield, Ill.; Kalamazoo, Mich.; Greenville, N.C.; Florence, S.C.; Dubuque and Sioux City, Iowa; Joplin, Mo.; Huntington, W.Va.; Lake Charles, La.; Roswell, N.M.; Del Rio, Texas; and Stillwater, Okla. American previously announced plans to fly two daily flights to Charlotte from Tweed beginning Sept. 9 and end service to Philadelphia. Prior to that, American had been flying one weekly Saturday flight each way between Tweed and Charlotte since December 2018. Philadelphia had been Tweeds primary, and sometimes only, initial destination for decades, dating back to when US Airways Express operated the service. Tweed, which has long pushed for a longer runway, is in the midst of doing its periodic airport master plan update, an 18-month process that includes community and technical advisory input and is scheduled to be done in March 2021. City and airport officials have said they need to extend the 5,600-foot main runway to at least 6,000 feet to attract additional commercial airlines. Tweed straddles the New Haven-East Haven border, and while it is owned by New Haven, is located in both municipalities. That effort received a boost when the U.S. Supreme Court announced March 23 it wont hear the states request to review a federal appeals courts ruling in favor of Tweed in the airports effort to extend its runway by paving portions of grassy runway safety areas at either end. The decision clears the way for Tweed to ultimately lengthen its main runway, which Tweed officials and New Haven leaders have said is essential to the airports future and its efforts to attract additional air service. The airport is owned by the city. mark.zaretsky@hearstmediact.com US president Trump waves from the back of a car in a motorcade outside of Walter Reed Medical Centre in Bethesda, Maryland on 4 October 2020 ((AFP via Getty Images)) Several US Secret Service agents have criticised president Donald Trump for potentially putting his protective detail in danger, during his brief drive outside the Walter Reed Medical Centre on Sunday. But his former campaign manager, Corey Lewandowski, later claimed the two Secret Service agents volunteered to drive Mr Trump, adding that they were separated from him by plexiglass. Mr Trump was hospitalised on Friday evening as a precaution after he showed symptoms for coronavirus, following a positive Covid-19 test result a few hours earlier. After nearly two days in the facility, president Trump was driven around outside the medical centre by his protective detail on Sunday evening, as he waved to his supporters who had waited for him since his admission to the hospital. Pictured in the vehicle with Mr Trump were two members of his protective detail wearing face masks and eye protection, while the president was also seen with a face covering in the backseat of the car. Although Mr Trumps aides claimed the drive was cleared by staff at the medical centre, the two agents are now going to have to quarantine for 14 days after coming into close contact with the president, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. Several Secret Service agents speaking under anonymity have criticised president Trump for the short trip, and one official told the Washington Post: Hes not even pretending to care now. In recent months, agents have reportedly become increasingly concerned with the presidents approach to social distancing, and another official told CNN about the drive: That should never have happened. The agent added: The frustration with how we're treated when it comes to decisions on this illness goes back before this though. We're not disposable. In an interview with NBC's Today on Monday, Mr Lewandowski said: The detail leader of the Secret Service and the driver both volunteered for that assignment. They have very difficult jobs but they were not required to do that, they both volunteered. Story continues According to The Post, Mr Trump went for the short drive because he was bored in the medical facility, and another Secret Service agent asked: Where are the adults? However, an agent told CNN that Mr Trump had not acted dangerously or endangered the protective detail in the SUV by taking the short trip on Sunday evening. I've watched some of the news today and it's ridiculous to say the president is trying to kill off his detail, they told CNN. He's unconventional, but we get the job done. The presidents brief trip was also criticised by health experts, who claimed that the precautions taken were not enough to guarantee that the agents would be safe from contracting the virus from Mr Trump. James Phillips, doctor of emergency medicine at George Washington University and an attending physician at the medical centre, tweeted: That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of COVID19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play. That Presidential SUV is not only bulletproof, but hermetically sealed against chemical attack. The risk of COVID19 transmission inside is as high as it gets outside of medical procedures. The irresponsibility is astounding. My thoughts are with the Secret Service forced to play. Dr. James P. Phillips, MD (@DrPhillipsMD) October 4, 2020 Jonathan Reiner, professor of medicine and surgery at George Washington University school of medicine and health services, added: By taking a joy ride outside Walter Reed the president is placing his Secret Service detail at grave risk. In the hospital when we go into close contact with a Covid patient we dress in full PPE: Gown, gloves, N95, eye protection, hat. This is the height of irresponsibility. By taking a joy ride outside Walter Reed the president is placing his Secret Service detail at grave risk. In the hospital when we go into close contact with a COVID patient we dress in full PPE: Gown, gloves, N95, eye protection, hat. This is the height of irresponsibility. Jonathan Reiner (@JReinerMD) October 4, 2020 NBC also reported that US first lady Melania Trump would not visit the president in hospital, because it would expose the agents who would drive her there and the medical staff who would walk her up to him. Speaking to reporters following Mr Trumps drive, White House spokesman Judd Deere defended the trip, and said: Appropriate precautions were taken in the execution of this movement to protect the president and all those supporting it. He declined to elaborate on what precautions were taken, but added that the drive was cleared by the medical team as safe to do. According to Johns Hopkins University some 7.4m people have now tested positive for coronavirus in the US and the death toll has reached 209,737. Read more Trump tweets in all caps from hospital about abortion, space and tax Since 1968 Ive known and worked with every Montana governor, lieutenant governor, senator and congressperson, Republicans and Democrats alike, from Forrest Anderson to Jon Tester (except Steve Daines). I feel comfortable evaluating candidates for governor, Mike Cooney and Greg Gianforte. Not an intimate of either, Ive known and worked with both 40 years with Cooney, about 20 years with Gianforte. Im philosophically progressive, but Ive made every effort to be objective in my review. My conclusion is a vote for Mike Cooney for Governor. I looked at several policy areas: public education, public land and stream access, taxation, and non-discrimination; as well as money in politics and media access. Mike Cooney believes that our limited state tax dollars for education should go to public education and not be diverted to private schools, a stark contrast with Gianfortes strong advocacy for public money going to private schools. Both are firm and open advocates for their positions, but mark this one for Cooney. Cooney has been a consistent advocate for public lands and stream access, a critical issue to all Montanans. While Gianforte talks the talk, his history finds him walking a different walk. In 2009, when I was with Governor Schweitzer, Gianforte filed a lawsuit against the state to end an easement for public access to the East Gallatin River that crossed his property. Though ultimately resolved, that lawsuit spoke volumes to Schweitzer and many others that Gianfortes words about public access rang hollow. Combine that with support for sale of public lands that is consistently advanced by Montana Republican Party leaders, and my choice on this important issue is clearly with Cooney. Both candidates say they oppose a general sales tax. I have had dozens of tax discussions with Mike Cooney over 40 years; in every discussion hes adamantly opposed a sales tax. My history on this with Gianforte is different. In 2002 or 2003, I moderated a Montana Ambassadors public policy panel discussion where Greg Gianforte was a panelist. On taxes, Gianforte spent virtually all of his time strongly calling for a state sales tax. He now says his support for the sales tax was only hypothetical. But his strong, adamant sales tax advocacy on that panel was certainly not hypothetical. So, on the sales tax, Im more comfortable with Cooney. On whether Montana should have a state law and/or local ordinances against discrimination, Gianfortes public record is terrible. He has consistently opposed non-discrimination ordinances (NDOs). I personally appeared before the Bozeman City Commission in support of the very NDO of which Gianforte was the most visible opponent. Gianforte also provided over a million dollars to organizations that oppose NDOs, essentially supporting discrimination. Mike Cooney 100% supports non-discrimination, which is where I believe Montanas governor ought to be. In 2012, 75% of Montana voters at the ballot box adopted by initiative a state policy that money did not equal free speech and corporations were not people. Cooney, like Governor Bullock, has been a strong proponent of that state policy opposing big-money politics. The governors record is probably the best in the nation and Mikes mirrors that. Gianforte supports the big money politics of Citizens United in opposition to what the people of Montana have adopted. In addition, between 2016 and this year, Gianforte is approaching $10 million of personal money hes spending in pursuit of your governorship. I expect him to pass $10 million in the final weeks. Should he win, Gianforte will have spent more to get elected than any other candidate except for the nefarious Copper King W.A. Clark, who over a century ago bribed his way to the U.S. Senate. Can a person who puts $10 million of his own money to buy an election be expected to relate to and represent us regular Joes and Janes? Finally, theres the question about openness in dealing with members of the press in their role under the First Amendment to the US Constitution. I just cant shake the memory of candidate Gianforte body-slamming a reporter for asking a question about healthcare, leading to Gianforte's conviction of misdemeanor assault. Just cant shake it. Adding it all up, I come down for casting a comfortable vote for Mike Cooney for governor. Evan Barrett lives in historic Uptown Butte after retiring following 47 years at the top level of Montana economic development, government, politics and education. He is an award-winning producer of Montana history videos who continues to write columns and commentaries and occasionally teaches Montana history. Love 10 Funny 1 Wow 0 Sad 0 Angry 0 As a kindergarten teacher, Michelle McKay used to revel in the lively, open classrooms that are the hallmark of early childhood education. But that ended abruptly for her and countless other teachers in March when schools shut down amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, with schools open again, and in a new role as a support worker for students with autism spectrum disorder, McKay typically visits two schools a day in Mississauga, where, instead of the lively squeals of youngsters, her workday begins with a series of safety protocols that just a few months ago she could not have imagined. After donning her personal protective gear usually a face mask and shield she is screened at the door for COVID-19 symptoms. Once inside, she follows arrows on the floor and sanitizes her hands on the way. When she finally reaches the classroom, she focuses on maintaining a careful distance between herself and the students in a bid to keep everyone safe. Like most of her colleagues, McKays job these days is a big departure from what it once was. But even with a new school year and a new role, her level of exhaustion is at an all-time high. Were feeling June tired, McKay said. We dont normally feel like this at this time of year. Many of Ontarios 160,000 teachers say burnout is running rampant. Theyre overwhelmed with a barrage of new responsibilities outside of teaching, including rigorous cleaning of classrooms, navigating technological issues for online classes and trying to maintain physical distancing between younger children. All this, while being responsible for the education of Ontarios two million students a process thats become increasingly complicated as more parents opt for online education at the eleventh hour. About 7,500 students recently switched from in-person to virtual school at the Toronto District School Board, while 3,000 opted to switch back from virtual to in-person classes. Despite more students learning online, physical class sizes have remained the same, teachers and their unions say, because of a shortage of teaching staff that has prompted a call for retired educators to return to work. The stress is also evident in numbers. A survey by Mental Health Research Canada, a national non-profit organization, found the number of teachers with high levels of anxiety increased, from five per cent reporting anxiety before COVID to 25 per cent amid the pandemic. Those teachers were surveyed in the last week of August, prior to Ontario schools reopening for the fall. Teachers also stated through the survey that they are pessimistic about their levels of anxiety for the next two months The pandemic is showing no signs of slowing down, and public health officials forecast up to 1,000 cases per day in Ontario by mid-October 40 times the average of around 25 daily cases when schools were shut down in March. More than 480 coronavirus cases have been reported in Ontario schools, with one elementary school in Scarborough closing temporarily on Sept. 28 due to an outbreak. McKay said she fears the anxiety will force more teachers to go on unpaid leave or long-term stress leave in the coming months. It might be working right now, she said. But long-term, Im not sure how the current plan is sustainable. Gail Bannister-Clarke, president of the local union representing Peel District School Boards 7,000 teachers, said the number of teachers on extended leave is now 94, much higher than usual. We know at this point of the year, people usually arent off, Bannister-Clarke said. People usually come back from the summer refreshed. Ryan Reyes, a spokesperson for the Peel District School Board, confirmed there is a higher than usual number of staff on leave. Their reasons include looking after their kids or immunocompromised family members and personal health issues. Bannister-Clarke said teachers are fed up with what she describes as a chaotic situation, fuelled by inadequate support from the province, a constant cycle of unknowns and safety guidelines that are changing rapidly. Some are forced to juggle multiple roles, or teach subjects theyre qualified for but havent taught in years. Even for the most seasoned educators, teaching while maintaining physical distancing and with the threat of the virus always looming means reimagining their profession, said Peel District School Board teacher librarian and kindergarten instructor Klara Redford. Redfords students are assigned a space or desk. They cant share materials and supplies. It is starkly different from the collaborative learning environment early childhood educators have often relied on and cherished, she added. Its been really, really difficult, and its stressful for teachers who, especially in the early years, are rooted in that philosophy of inquiry and play, she said. They cant do that anymore. Redford said its still a challenge to get younger children to distance themselves, especially during activities like story time. To maintain a two-metre distance in a kindergarten class is actually impossible, she said. This is compounded by the added pressure on teachers to keep their classrooms clean. Armed with a spray bottle, Redford endeavours to wipe down every surface touched, all while trying to teach her young students. Even with rigorous cleaning, COVID-19 cases are still being reported in schools. Bannister-Clarke estimated she receives about three alerts per day from Peel Public Health notifying her of a COVID-19 case in a Peel school. This information is sent to teachers as well, she said, further fuelling their anxiety. Once you hear that someone in your building has COVID-19, you think, Am I really safe? Research shows the impact of COVID-19 on children is less severe than adults. Statistics from the Public Health Agency of Canada reveal only 1.4 per cent of infected kids and teens end up in hospital with the disease, compared to 13.5 per cent of cases involving all ages. Worldwide, COVID-related deaths in children are rare. But even without the threat of the virus, Bannister-Clarke said online teaching comes with its own challenges. Teachers like Dayna Platt, who instructs a Grade 1 class virtually in a Mississauga school, work around the clock. The amount of planning that goes into an online day is intense, and we have no support right now, Platt said. Typically a homeroom teacher, Platt now spends all day teaching every subject: language arts, math, science, social studies, visual arts, drama and dance. She added her classroom of 21 has no support for special education or English as a second language (ESL) students. She estimated 18 of her students need ESL help, or about 85 per cent of her classroom. Platts day begins at 7 a.m. and she said she often doesnt log off until 11 p.m. I am exhausted, Platt said. Its draining. It takes a toll on everything. It takes a toll on relationships. Its hard. Theres no relief anymore. Her anxiety is further heightened by technology issues. Once, Platt said she tried to share her screen with students and the whole program shut down, leaving her six-year-olds confused as to what happened to their teacher. Things that used to offer respite for teachers, like planning time or an open staff room where they can share their grievances, are no longer there, both Redford and Platt said. Many teachers who couldnt afford to take unpaid leave have also sacrificed seeing their elderly parents in the process, like Redford, who has limited her contact with most of her family since returning to the classroom. I go home and my stress relief is just hanging out with my dog, she said. Or getting some fresh air. School boards like Peel do offer some mental health resources for teachers. Reyes said teachers had access to virtual group support sessions to share challenges due to the pandemic and how theyve coped with them. They also have continued access to a Well-being Toolkit, which includes resources and support for anxiety and recommended self-care activities. Their union offers a benefits plan that covers $1,500 in fees for psychologists, social workers, clinical counsellors and psychoanalysts. Teachers also receive 11 days of medical leave with 100 per cent pay, or a short-term medical leave of 120 days with 90 per cent pay, Bannister-Clarke said. But Cathryn Raman, a special education itinerant at the Peel board, said teachers have a hard time reaching out for help even when resources are there. We dont like to be the ones to have to admit and ask for help, Raman said. We problem solve and we work through, and were the ones facilitating and helping as a general rule. Thats what we do. To be the ones now feeling that sense of Hey, Im having a difficult time is hard. As she looks ahead, McKay said she sees no respite. The extended deadline for parents to opt out of physical learning and place their children in an online class has been set for mid-October. And while COVID-19 cases continue to rise, McKay said she anticipates more parents will end up making that decision, sending the system further into disarray unless more teachers are hired. Teachers who spoke to the Star said they believe a reduction in class sizes and the hiring of more staff are key to offering educators the mental and emotional relief they seek as they head into the winter months. No plans have yet been released by the government to directly address the ongoing issue of class sizes. Teachers unions have recently argued the provinces back-to-school plan so far is unsafe, but Education Minister Stephen Lecces office maintains the plan in place is a good one. We must allow an opportunity for our students to return to school, combined with layers of prevention to maximize health and safety, Caitlin Clark, a spokesperson for Lecce, said in an email. We have done exactly that. Clark said $200 million of provincial and federal money has been given to school boards to hire more teachers, in addition to reserve money boards have access to. Peels board has used that money to reduce elementary class size averages at physical locations to be below ministry targets, Reyes said. But the mental and emotional toll of teaching under an unprecedented global pandemic remains. Part of the exhaustion, teachers like Platt said, is being unable to do the job they love to the best of their ability. You feel like a crummy teacher when things fail or when you cant support your students when you know you could if circumstances are different, Platt said. I cant be the best teacher that I can be. Nadine Yousif is a Toronto-based reporter for the Star covering mental health. Her reporting is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative. Follow her on Twitter: @nadineyousif_ Mr. Meadows called into Fox News on Saturday night, knowing the president was most likely watching, and praised his unbelievable courage and unbelievable improvement. But he also confirmed that Mr. Trumps condition on Friday was worse than originally described. Yesterday morning we were real concerned with that, Mr. Meadows said. He had a fever and his blood oxygen level had dropped rapidly. The mixed messages only exacerbated the confusion and uncertainties surrounding the presidents situation. During their briefing on Saturday, the doctors refused to provide important details and gave timelines that conflicted with earlier White House accounts and left the impression that the president was sick and began treatment earlier than officially reported. Two people close to the White House said in separate interviews with The New York Times that the president had trouble breathing on Friday and that his oxygen level dropped, prompting his doctors to give him supplemental oxygen while at the White House and transfer him to Walter Reed where he could be monitored with better equipment and treated more rapidly in case of trouble. During the televised briefing, Dr. Conley said the president was not currently receiving supplemental oxygen on Saturday but repeatedly declined to say definitively whether he had ever been on oxygen. None at this moment and yesterday with the team, while we were all here, he was not on oxygen, he said, seeming to suggest that there was a period on Friday at the White House when he was. Dr. Conley likewise appeared to indicate that the president was first diagnosed with the virus on Wednesday rather than Thursday night, before Mr. Trump disclosed the test on Twitter early Friday morning. While describing what he said was the presidents progress, he said Mr. Trump was just 72 hours into the diagnosis now, which would mean midday on Wednesday. Just two hours later, the White House issued a statement it said was written by Dr. Conley trying to clarify. This morning while summarizing the presidents health, I incorrectly used the term 72 hours instead of Day 3, it said. Dr. Conley also said that on Thursday afternoon we repeated testing and, given clinical indications, had a little bit more concern. Late that night, he said, we got the P.C.R. confirmation that he was positive. Mr. Trump attended campaign events on both Wednesday night and Thursday without wearing a mask and gathering hundreds of supporters who likewise were not taking precautions against the virus. YEREVAN/BAKU: Azerbaijan and Armenia accused each other on Monday of attacking civilian areas and said the death toll was rising from the deadliest fighting in the South Caucasus region for more than 25 years. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg added his voice to calls for an immediate end to the clashes over Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountain enclave that belongs to Azerbaijan under international law but is populated and governed by ethnic Armenians. But prospects for a ceasefire appeared remote after fighting intensified at the weekend, with hundreds killed in clashes involving artillery, tanks and fighter planes since Sept. 27. Azerbaijan said Azeri cities outside Nagorno-Karabakh had been struck, taking the fighting closer to territory from which pipelines carry Azeri gas and oil to Europe. In an interview shown on Monday by Turkey`s state broadcaster, Azeri President Ilham Aliyev said Armenia must withdraw its troops from Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding Azeri territories for military action to stop. "We don`t have eyes on any other country`s lands, but what is ours should be ours," he said, echoing comments he made in an address to the nation on Sunday. Aliyev has ignored a ceasefire appeal by the United States, Russia and France, who have led mediation efforts in the intermittent conflict since the 1990s, and said in Monday`s interview that any peacemaking must involve Turkey. "Turkey must definitely be in any upcoming peace process. A peace process will surely be started. Clashes cannot go on forever, so the sooner the better," he said. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan showed no sign of backing down. In comments on Facebook on Monday, he called on servicemen demobilised last year to volunteer to fight. "I want to invite those people and tell them they are ... going to fight a war of survival for their fatherland," he said. "NO MILITARY SOLUTION" The fighting has increased international concern that other regional powers could be dragged into the conflict - Turkey has expressed solidarity with Azerbaijan while Armenia has a defence pact with Russia. "There is no military solution," NATO`s Stoltenberg said during a visit to Turkey, calling for a ceasefire. The European Union appealed for a ceasefire last week and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday he had asked his foreign minister to travel to Europe to meet with allies to discuss developments in Nagorno-Karabakh. U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun spoke separately to the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia. He urged the sides to agree to a ceasefire immediately and resume negotiations, the State Department said in a statement. The United States, Russia and France jointly chair a group under the auspices of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to mediate in the crisis. The three powers condemned the escalation of violence in and around Nagorno-Karabakh and called for a ceasefire, the OSCE said. On Monday, Nagorno-Karabakh said Azeri forces carried out rocket strikes on Stepanakert, which the enclave`s Armenian administration considers its capital. Azerbaijan said Armenia fired missiles at several towns outside the breakaway enclave. Officials in Nagorno-Karabakh said 21 more servicemen had been killed, bringing its total military death toll to 223 since the fighting began. It also said 19 civilians had been killed. "Stubborn battles are going on along the contact line between Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan," Artsrun Hovhannisyan, an Armenian defence ministry official. The Azeri prosecutor`s office said 25 civilians and been killed and 127 wounded since fighting began. Azerbaijan has not provided details of military casualties. Azerbaijan says its forces have made gains and President Aliyev has said that his army has "liberated" several villages and heights in the Jabrail region in Nagorno-Karabakh. A spokesman for Nagorno-Karabakh said the enclave`s forces had retreated for tactical reasons to limit losses and inflict more damage on Azeri forces. Hovhannisyan said Azeri advances has been halted. The clashes are the worst since the 1990s, when some 30,000 people were killed, and are spreading beyond the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave itself. "The fighting has essentially put to bed the prospect of any near-term resolution to the dispute over Nagorno-Karabakh," said analysts Alexander Stronell and Yohann Michel of the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) in London. Tornabuoni Art Around the corner from the Royal Academy, the Tornabuoni Art gallery (which specializes in modern Italian art) is putting on a curated show of 1960s and 70s kinetic and Op Art, the kind that shifts and swerves as you look at it, and can sometimes make you dizzy. Kinetic art was the focus of the Museum of Modern Arts landmark 1965 show Responsive Eye. Tornabuoni is exhibiting several of the artists in that show, including Josef Albers and Victor Vasarely, but also Enrico Castellani and Michelangelo Pistoletto. Tate Modern At the contemporary end of things, there is also plenty to see and the stars of the moment seem to come from the United States. Tate Modern is paying tribute to Bruce Nauman, who has been described as one of the most influential American artists of his generation, and whose career started five decades ago. The Tate show, his biggest in London in a couple of decades, will consist of more than 40 works: immersive installations but also sculpture, sound, film, video and neon. In July this year, a 34-year-old woman in Surrey, United Kingdom, died from the toxic fumes that she inhaled while cleaning her bathroom. Unaware of the danger of mixing two cleaning products, Celia Seymour had used a bleach and a toilet cleaner together, with disastrous consequences. In November last year, 32-year-old Ryan Baldera suffered a similar fate in Burlington, Massachusetts, USA. He tried to remove a floor-cleaning agent spilt on the floor with another cleaner, without realising that in the process, he was mixing sodium hypochlorite, the active ingredient in one cleaner, with some acids present in the other, leading to the release of chlorine gas. Inhalation of the poisonous gas proved fatal. Last week, a friend from Bengaluru forwarded a WhatsApp message from someone who had a narrow escape. To clean her bathroom surface, the consumer first used a toilet cleaner and on finding the quantity to be insufficient, had poured out a bathroom cleaner two different products of the same brand, meant for the washroom. As she scrubbed, she inhaled strong chlorine fumes emanating from the mixture, without realising its toxicity. Fortunately, she recovered from a serious bout of coughing and acute breathlessness that she suffered for hours. Unfortunately, as with many such forwards, the name of the person who wrote it was missing, so also the date of the first send. Yet, the message is highly relevant. In fact a Google search shows several people from different parts of the country sharing such experiences. One of them, who used a bleach and a toilet cleaner, thinking that it would be effective in cleaning the tough stains on the bathroom tiles, suffered such deleterious effects from the poisonous gas released that he had to be put on a ventilator for several hours. When a cleaning product containing sodium hypochlorite (or chlorine bleach), for example, gets mixed with a solution containing one of two acids as an active ingredient, it releases toxic chlorine gas. Depending on the concentration of the gas and the length of exposure, inhalation of the gas could be life-threatening. The symptoms range from eye, nose and throat irritation, incessant coughing, breathlessness, chest pain, wheezing to acute lung damage or acute respiratory distress syndrome. Similarly, when sodium hypochlorite is mixed with ammonia, chloramines are produced . Exposure to these vapours also produce similar symptoms. When you mix rubbing alcohol or a hand sanitiser that contains ethanol or isopropyl alcohol with sodium hypochlorite, the resultant gas is chloroform, a powerful anaesthetic. So whether you are unclogging your drains or cleaning your kitchen surfaces, sanitising your bathrooms or disinfecting your living room floors, remember these are all chemicals and they should never be mixed -even if they are products of the same company. If you see the containers of cleaning solutions, besides a general caution against mixing with other cleaners or household chemicals, they all specifically tell you not to mix with bleach or acids, depending on their active ingredient. Some of them also tell you that such mixing could release chlorine. But that is not adequate. The warning should be far more prominent and on the front of the pack, so that it catches the attention of the consumer. And it should be in English as well as the local language. Manufacturers also need to take up consumer awareness campaigns on the risk of mixing cleaning or disinfecting agents. In fact the apex consumer court has held in several cases that failure to issue adequate warning about the usage of a product constitutes negligence. But more important, the new consumer protection law, the Consumer Protection Act , 2019, has a separate chapter on product liability and under that, the manufacturer will be held liable for any harm caused to the consumer , if the product fails to contain adequate instructions of correct usage to prevent any harm or any warning regarding improper or incorrect usage. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 16:31:28|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CAIRO, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Egypt confirmed late on Sunday 108 new COVID-19 infections, raising the total cases registered in the country since the outbreak of the pandemic to 103,683, said the Egyptian Health Ministry. Meanwhile, 11 patients died from the novel coronavirus in the past 24 hours, bringing the death toll to 5,981, while 81 others completely recovered, increasing the total recoveries to 97,355, the ministry's spokesman Khaled Megahed said in a statement. Total COVID-19 recoveries in Egypt have currently approached 94 percent of the total cases registered in the most populous Arab country. Egypt announced its first confirmed COVID-19 case on Feb. 14 and the first death from the viral disease on March 8. Around mid-June, Egypt saw a peak of COVID-19 daily infections and deaths, with a record 97 deaths on June 15 and 1,774 infections on June 19, before they started to gradually decline in the first week of July. Amid declining daily COVID-19 infections and fatalities, Egypt has been easing relevant restrictions over the past three months as part of a coexistence plan to maintain anti-coronavirus precautionary measures while resuming economic activities. Egypt and China have been cooperating closely in fighting the pandemic through exchanging medical aid and expertise. In early February, Egypt sent a batch of medical supplies to China to help with its fight against COVID-19 and China later sent three batches of medical aid to the North African country. Enditem Afi Antonio Foundation in partnership with Feminine Star Africa put together a women empowerment program in Anloga. Empowering women to be key change agents is an essential element to achieving the end of hunger and poverty. The theme for the program was... The Empowered Woman "Empowering Women And Girls For a Better Tomorrow" The purpose for the training was... To Equity Women with income generating skills that will help them realize their financial goals and overcome persistent gender based barriers. The program was held at the Anloga district assembly hall on the 21st September, 2020. With the support of the department of social welfare in Anloga, they registered 60 women/girls consisting of widows, single mothers, disabled women, and female school dropouts. They were trained in bead making, soap making, makeup, marketing strategies, how to start their own business, and using social media as a tool to benefit their businesses when they start. Afi Antonio Foundation decided to have this training in the Volta Region this time because the founder madam Afi Antonio thinks it's about time she gives back to her people in her hometown. All participants received certificates after the training. The DCE of Anloga Honorable Seth Yormewu attended the program to encourage participants. Afi Antonio said although they were hoping to receive some support from the sitting MP Honorable Kofi Humado, he showed no interest when contacted. The foundation had some individuals who sponsored about 40 participants by paying a registration fee of 40ghc which covered their food, drinks, and certificate. The training was however free. Afi Antonio also added that they will be following up with the participants as some need capital to start their business. They hope to secure sponsorship to enable them to support some of these women/girls to be self-sufficient. The foundation is calling on corporate bodies and individuals who will like to support some of these women/girls to start their own business. Afi Antonio ended by saying, the program wouldn't have been successful without the support of Jubilee Radio, Keta, the District Assembly, Anloga, The White House Hotel, Anloga, facilitators, and volunteers. A leaked September 29 Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) intelligence report prepared by the Dallas, Texas, field office warns that leading up to the November election, boogaloo adherents and militia violent extremists are increasing violent and criminal activity in the Dallas area. The assessment was made the same day President Donald Trump, in the first presidential debate with his Democratic opponent, Joe Biden, refused to condemn white supremacists and militia groups, instead instructing the fascistic street gang the Proud Boys to stand back and stand by. Somebodys got to do something about Antifa and the left because this is not a right-wing problem... this is a leftwing problem, Trump added. Virginia 2nd Amendment Rally (2020 Jan) The intelligence document, leaked to the Nation s national security reporter Ken Klippenstein, confirms that the federal government continues to downplay the threat violent far-right groups pose to the general population. It also demonstrates that homicidal terrorist violence overwhelmingly emanates not from amorphous Antifa or insurrectionary anarchist groups, as the New York Times recently argued, but from far-right anti-communist and racist groups. These include the Proud Boys, Boogaloo and back the blue militia groups such as the Oath Keepers and the Three Percenters (III). A database published in July of this year by researchers at the Washington, DC think tank the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) found that in the last 25 years there have been zero people killed in anti-fascist attacks. Conversely, the researchers linked 329 victims to right-wing violence since 1994. Sourcing for the FBI report was based on social media activity, news reports, government surveillance of text communications and information provided by two well-placed FBI human sources. One of these, it appears, has been working with the agency for three years. The unclassified report states: Two human sources were critical to the key analytical judgments in the product. One of the sources has reported various threats since 2017, and some of the information reported has been corroborated. It continues: Another human source with direct access provided context on the anti-government or anti-authority threat due to historically providing corroborated anti-government or anti-authority extremists reporting in the FBI Dallas AOR [Area of Responsibility]. The report noted that in June 2020, one of the FBI sources had direct access to self-identified boogaloo adherents who had been seen in downtown Dallas at multiple protests. One of these adherents told the source they would hunt anti-fascist anarchists and kill any Dallas looters. Approximately four months later, days before he was assassinated by US Marshals and local police, Michael Reinoehl expressed his fear that right-wing groups and the police were hunting me. Theres nightly posts of the hunt and where theyre going to be hunting, he told an interviewer. They made a post saying the deer are going to feel lucky this year because its open season on Michael right now. The level of police infiltration of far-right militia groups must not be underestimated or dismissed. Just over a month ago, two Boogaloo bois, Michael Solomon, 30, of New Brighton, Minnesota, and Benjamin Teeter, 22, of Hampstead, North Carolina, were indicted on federal charges of attempting to provide weapons to Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist fundamentalist group, in exchange for funding for their local boojahideen. The Hamas contact was, in fact, a confidential informant, who arranged a hotel meeting on June 28 with Teeter, Solomon and an undercover FBI agent posing as a more senior member of Hamas. At the meeting, the pair agreed to supply silencers as well as unregistered gun parts to the informant/agent in exchange for money. In an affidavit, the US government alleges the four shared their anti-US views and Teeter and Solomon expressed their desire to become mercenaries for Hamas. In subsequent meetings over the summer, Teeter and Solomon are alleged to have discussed targeting a county courthouse for destruction, as it was a symbol of the unjust laws that America upholds. On July 30, the pair allegedly delivered five suppressors to the undercover agent for $1,800. Both are facing federal charges for conspiring and attempting to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization. They face 12-14 years in prison. Fellow Boogaloo boi Air Force Staff Sergeant Steven Carrillo, 32, remains in custody awaiting to see if he will face the death penalty for his alleged role in the killing of Federal Protective Security Officer David Patrick Underwood, 53, on May 29, as well as Santa Cruz County Sheriff Sergeant Damon Gutzwiller on June 6. The day after Underwood was killed, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Acting Secretary Chad Wolf called the shooting an outright assault on our law-enforcement community, while his deputy secretary, Ken Cuccinelli, called it an act of domestic terrorism. At the press conference, Wolf did not name any groups potentially responsible, except one. The investigation is very early on, he said. We have seen reports out there that a number of different groups are involved in these, whether its Antifa or its others. The Boogaloo movement, whose followers refer to themselves as Boogaloo bois, boojahideen or simply boog, began as a meme that was shared across internet forums, including 4chan and the largest Nazi board in the world, Iron March, in 2013. Members are overwhelmingly ex-military, racist and share an apocalyptic worldview that understands their antisocial actions as the catalyst to a second American revolution that will culminate in a race war ending in the establishment of an anarcho-capitalist fascist state. In a New York Times interview from mid-August, 39-year-old Kris Hunter of Waco, Texas, a self-proclaimed Boogaloo boi and member of the United States Boogalier Corps, estimates that 80 percent of the members of his group are military veterans. Unlike other right-wing militias in the US, such as the Oath Keepers, Boogaloo ideology is virulently anti-police, leading to more ex-military followers as opposed to former cops. Despite the Boogaloo movement possessing a clear anti-government, violent ideology that calls on adherents to use the cover of anti-police protests to carry out terrorist attacks against property and state agents, and its decentralized cell-based organizational structure, the report warns only of the increased threat of violent lone actors. While a relatively new formation, the Boogaloo movement shares many characteristics of previous right-wing anti-government militias, drawing inspiration from the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing and Anders Breivik, the Norwegian fascist who carried out the mass murder of Labor Party youth in July 2011. The proliferation of flowery pastel Hawaiian shirts among members, generally worn under body armor, first began to appear at far-right anti-lockdown rallies this past spring in Lansing, Michigan; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Denver, Colorado and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The intelligence report notes that on April 30, two armed individuals who both identified themselves as Duncan Lemp... patrolled a Dallas parking lot near [a business] to protest the business being cited for reopening in violation of local and state stay-at-home orders. Duncan Lemp, 21, was fatally shot by members of the Montgomery County Police Departments SWAT team on March 12, 2020 during a no-knock 4:30 a.m. raid on his apartment. Lemp, a software developer, lent his expertise to far-right groups, including the Three Percenters, helping to design and maintain websites. He has become a symbol for the group and a way for members to feign solidarity with anti-police protesters. Boogaloo bois have been spotted at demonstrations carrying signs with the names of Duncan Lemp as well as Breonna Taylor and Eric Garner. A vigil honouring the memory of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls was held at Hamilton City Hall Sunday. Members of Spirit Sisters performed at a vigil for which was part of National Day of Awareness (NDA) for Missing and Murdered Native Women and Girls in Canada. Each year, family members, Indigenous members of the community and concerned citizens gather for a vigil on Oct. 4, to honour the memory of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. Vigils take place in many communities across Canada as well as internationally. VANCOUVER, BC and TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 5, 2020 / Auryn Resources Inc. (TSX:AUG)(NYSE American:AUG) ("Auryn") and Eastmain Resources Inc. (TSX:ER) ("Eastmain") are pleased to jointly announce that securityholders of both companies voted today at special meetings to approve their respective plans of arrangement pursuant to which Auryn will spin out its Peruvian assets and immediately thereafter acquire Eastmain (the "Transaction"). Voting support for the Transaction was in excess of 99% of the securities voted for each Company. Shareholder participation was 63.97% for Auryn and 40.03% for Eastmain. The remaining principal condition to the completion of the Transaction is obtaining the final orders of the British Columbia Supreme Court and Ontario Superior Court of Justice at hearings which are scheduled for October 7, 2020. Pursuant to the Transaction, Auryn will acquire Eastmain after spinning out its Peruvian assets into two new companies and distributing the shares of those new companies to Auryn's shareholders. The Transaction will also create Fury Gold Mines Limited ("Fury Gold"), a leading developer of Canadian gold projects. A Message from Ivan Bebek, Executive Chairman & Director of Auryn: "On behalf of the board and team at Auryn, I would like to thank all our securityholders for support of our plan to create three significant opportunities to unlock considerable value across our portfolio of high-quality projects. The three companies will offer premier growth and exploration opportunities in gold, copper and silver as we head into a robust commodity market." A Message from Blair Schultz, Interim President & CEO of Eastmain: "The Eastmain management and board would like to thank our shareholders for their support. We are excited to create Fury Gold Mines and eager for this future developer to establish itself as a premier Canadian focused mining company." Auryn Annual and Special Meeting Results The detailed voting results from the Auryn meeting are as follows: Special Resolutions Relating to Transaction Votes For Votes For (%) Votes Against Votes Against (%) Reorganization Arrangement (by holders of Auryn common shares) 52,959,236 99.57% 228,963 0.43% Reorganization Arrangement (by holders of Auryn common shares, options and warrants) 58,867,361 99.61% 228,963 0.39% Eastmain Acquisition 53,003,525 99.65% 184,675 0.35% Equity Financing* 52,944,903 99.54% 243,297 0.46% *Shareholders holding 3,557,500 shares were excluded from this vote on account of having an interest in the financing shares. Number of Directors Votes For Votes For (%) Votes Against Votes Against (%) Set the number of directors of the Company at eight (8) 52,933,312 99.52% 254,888 0.48% Election of Directors The voting results for the election of directors are as follows: Name of Nominee Votes For Votes For (%) Votes Withheld/ Abstain Votes Withheld/ Abstain (%) Shawn Wallace1 53,043,933 99.73% 144,207 0.27% Ivan James Bebek 53,028,898 99.70% 159,302 0.30% Gordon J. Fretwell1 53,036,054 99.71% 152,146 0.29% Steve Cook 53,035,076 99.71% 153,124 0.29% Jeffrey R. Mason 53,029,320 99.70% 158,880 0.30% Antonio Arribas1 53,030,612 99.70% 157,588 0.30% Alison Sagateh Williams 53,027,162 99.70% 161,038 0.30% Mike Timmins 53,018,050 99.68% 170,150 0.32% 1 Following the final approvals and completion of the Reorganization Arrangement and the Eastmain Acquisition, these Directors will retire to allow the new appointments of Michael Hoffman and Blair Schultz to the Board of Fury Gold Mines. There were 16,044,485 non-votes recorded (but not voted) for each resolution, other than the appointment of auditors. Non-votes are discretionary votes given to a broker by a US beneficial holder, but such votes are not allowed under Canadian Securities Regulations. Additional Resolutions Votes For Votes For (%) Votes Against Votes Against (%) Renewal of Rolling Share Option Plan 52,325,718 98.38% 862,481 1.62% Adoption of New Corporate Articles 52,274,691 98.28% 913,508 1.72% Eastmain Special Meeting Results The details voting results from the Eastmain meeting are as follows: Votes For Votes For (%) Votes Against Votes Against (%) Arrangement Resolution (by holders of Eastmain common shares) 115,319,317 99.14% 1,003,100 0.86% Arrangement Resolution (by holders of Eastmain common shares, options and warrants) 131,240,486 99.24% 1,003,100 0.76% Arrangement Resolution (majority of the minority) 109,888,572 99.10% 1,003,100 0.90% Detailed voting results on the matters submitted to Auryn's and Eastmain's securityholders at the respective meetings have also been reported on each of Auryn's and Eastmain's profiles at www.sedar.com. Further details regarding the Transaction, including its principal completion conditions can be found in each of Auryn's and Eastmain's management information circulars dated September 3, 2020 and filed under each of their profiles at www.sedar.com. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF AURYN RESOURCES INC. Ivan Bebek Executive Chairman and Director ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF EASTMAIN RESOURCES INC. Blair Schultz Interim President and CEO For further information please contact: Auryn Resources Natasha Frakes, Manager of Corporate Communications 778-729-0600 info@aurynresources.com Eastmain Resources Blair Schultz, Interim President and CEO 647-347-3735 bschultz@eastmain.com About Auryn Auryn Resources Inc. is a technically-driven, well-financed junior exploration company focused on finding and advancing globally significant precious and base metal deposits. Auryn built a portfolio of six projects in Canada and Peru containing gold, silver and copper resources and exploration targets. On July 29, 2020, Auryn announced its intention to spin out its Peruvian assets into two new companies and acquire Eastmain, creating a Canadian gold-focused exploration and development company to be renamed as Fury Gold Mines Limited. Auryn's two flagship Canadian properties are the Committee Bay gold project in Nunavut and Homestake gold project in British Columbia for which an amended preliminary economic assessment was filed effective June 24, 2020. Upon closing of the Transaction, Fury Gold's three core assets will comprise of Eau Claire in Quebec, Committee Bay and Homestake Ridge. Auryn shareholders, invested prior to the completion of the Transaction, will become shareholders of Fury Gold and will also receive shares in the two new Canadian spin out companies, one holding the Sombrero copper-gold project, and the other holding both the Curibaya silver-gold project and Huilacollo gold project. Auryn's technical and management teams have an impressive track-record of successfully monetizing assets for all stakeholders and local communities in which it operates. Auryn conducts itself to the highest standards of corporate governance and sustainability. For more information on Auryn and the Transaction, please visit www.aurynresources.com. About Eastmain Eastmain is a Canadian exploration company operating in the Eeyou Istchee emerging James Bay gold camp in Quebec. Eastmain holds a 100%-interest in the Clearwater Property, host of the Eau Claire Project, for which it issued a Preliminary Economic Assessment in May 2018, and the Percival Discovery made in November 2018. Eastmain is also the operator of the Eleonore South Joint Venture, located immediately south of Newmont's Eleonore Mine, which hosts the Moni/Contact Trend Discovery (2017). Forward Looking Information and Additional Cautionary Language This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". Forward looking information is information that includes implied future performance and/or forecast information including information relating to or associated with the Transaction, including the completion of the Transaction. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different (either positively or negatively) from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers should refer to the risks discussed in Auryn's Annual Information Form and MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2019 and subsequent continuous disclosure filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators available at www.sedar.com and Auryn's registration statement on Form 40-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and available at www.sec.gov and in Eastmain's Annual Information Form and MD&A for the year ended October 31, 2019 and continuous disclosure filings available at www.sedar.com. The Toronto Stock Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: Auryn Resources Inc. View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/609186/Auryn-and-Eastmain-Securityholders-Overwhelmingly-Approve-the-Auryn-Reorganization-and-Eastmain-Acquisition It is hard to get excited after looking at Cromwell Property Group's (ASX:CMW) recent performance, when its stock has declined 6.0% over the past week. To decide if this trend could continue, we decided to look at its weak fundamentals as they shape the long-term market trends. Particularly, we will be paying attention to Cromwell Property Group's ROE today. Return on equity or ROE is an important factor to be considered by a shareholder because it tells them how effectively their capital is being reinvested. In other words, it is a profitability ratio which measures the rate of return on the capital provided by the company's shareholders. See our latest analysis for Cromwell Property Group How Do You Calculate Return On Equity? ROE can be calculated by using the formula: Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations) Shareholders' Equity So, based on the above formula, the ROE for Cromwell Property Group is: 7.0% = AU$181m AU$2.6b (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2020). The 'return' is the amount earned after tax over the last twelve months. Another way to think of that is that for every A$1 worth of equity, the company was able to earn A$0.07 in profit. What Is The Relationship Between ROE And Earnings Growth? Thus far, we have learned that ROE measures how efficiently a company is generating its profits. We now need to evaluate how much profit the company reinvests or "retains" for future growth which then gives us an idea about the growth potential of the company. Assuming all else is equal, companies that have both a higher return on equity and higher profit retention are usually the ones that have a higher growth rate when compared to companies that don't have the same features. A Side By Side comparison of Cromwell Property Group's Earnings Growth And 7.0% ROE On the face of it, Cromwell Property Group's ROE is not much to talk about. However, its ROE is similar to the industry average of 6.6%, so we won't completely dismiss the company. Having said that, Cromwell Property Group's five year net income decline rate was 4.1%. Bear in mind, the company does have a slightly low ROE. Therefore, the decline in earnings could also be the result of this. Story continues So, as a next step, we compared Cromwell Property Group's performance against the industry and were disappointed to discover that while the company has been shrinking its earnings, the industry has been growing its earnings at a rate of 8.5% in the same period. Earnings growth is a huge factor in stock valuation. What investors need to determine next is if the expected earnings growth, or the lack of it, is already built into the share price. Doing so will help them establish if the stock's future looks promising or ominous. What is CMW worth today? The intrinsic value infographic in our free research report helps visualize whether CMW is currently mispriced by the market. Is Cromwell Property Group Making Efficient Use Of Its Profits? Cromwell Property Group's very high LTM (or last twelve month) payout ratio of 108% over the last three years suggests that the company is paying its shareholders more than what it is earning and this explains the company's shrinking earnings. Paying a dividend beyond their means is usually not viable over the long term. Our risks dashboard should have the 2 risks we have identified for Cromwell Property Group. In addition, Cromwell Property Group has been paying dividends over a period of at least ten years suggesting that keeping up dividend payments is way more important to the management even if it comes at the cost of business growth. Upon studying the latest analysts' consensus data, we found that the company is expected to keep paying out approximately 101% of its profits over the next three years. Therefore, the company's future ROE is also not expected to change by much with analysts predicting an ROE of 7.0%. Summary On the whole, Cromwell Property Group's performance is quite a big let-down. Specifically, it has shown quite an unsatisfactory performance as far as earnings growth is concerned, and a poor ROE and an equally poor rate of reinvestment seem to be the reason behind this inadequate performance. Having said that, looking at current analyst estimates, we found that the company's earnings growth rate is expected to see a huge improvement. To know more about the latest analysts predictions for the company, check out this visualization of analyst forecasts for the company. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com. The Brainerd Community Food Pantry, at Brainerd United Methodist Church - 4315 Brainerd Road, will open on Wednesday, Oct. 14. The days and times of distribution will be the second Wednesday of the month from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and the fourth Wednesday of the month, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The Chattanooga Area Food Bank serves roughly 18 zip codes through their voucher and emergency food box programs; approximately 10 percent of the requests are coming from the Brainerd zip code, 37411. The Brainerd Community has seen a significant increase in the need for food from its most vulnerable residents," said Chairman of the Advisory Board, Bess Steverson. "The time to act and come together to care for our neighbors is now. The hope is that the voucher organizations in the Brainerd area will give their voucher donations to this pantry and allow those in need to have a convenient pantry near their homes. The pantry will be modeled after the Red Bank Community Pantry, enlisting volunteers and support from the broader Brainerd community. Currently, the Red Bank Pantry serves approximately 175 families twice a month, roughly 800 individuals. Due to the size of the Brainerd community and the diversity of the population, the Advisory Board anticipates a larger number of families and individuals will be served. Volunteers and donations are needed. Please visit www.brainerdfoodpantry.com to make a donation and sign up to be a volunteer. To mail a check, please make it payable to the Brainerd Community Food Pantry and send to Brainerd UMC at 4315 Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37414., and include an email address. Please email brainerdfoodpantry@gmail.com for any questions. Press Release 5 October 2020 The Republic of Indonesia has become the first signatory of the Framework Convention on Tourism Ethics, the landmark instrument created to ensure global tourism is fair, inclusive, more transparent, and works for everyone. Advertisements The ceremony, hosted by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in Madrid, is a significant step towards the ratification of the Convention, which was adopted during the 23rd meeting of the UNWTO General Assembly in September 2019. With the sector currently facing up to the biggest crisis in its history, today's signing was a clear sign that Member States are looking to UNWTO for firm leadership and remain committed to its mission to use this pause as an opportunity to realign tourism. The Convention was hailed as a "big step forward" towards introducing a universal, legally binding ethical code for tourism, one of the world's most important socio-economic sectors. In a special ceremony attended by the country's Ambassador to Spain Bapak Hermono and hosted at the UNWTO headquarters, Indonesia became the first country to sign, signalling its strong commitment to uphold the highest ethical principles as it expands its tourism sector. Indonesia played an important role in the drafting of the Convention as part of the Committee that converted the Global Code of Ethics in Tourism into an international legally binding instrument. A Member State since 1975, it is currently working with UNWTO to restart tourism in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, in September 2020, UNWTO conducted a virtual meeting with the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy and the Regional Government of Bali to explore solutions for the safe reopening of Bali to international visitors. In this regard, technical assistance from UNWTO will be provided in due course. Over US$317 mln in low-interest loans issued to Ukrainian SMEs PM Shmyhal 13:15, 05.10.20 1083 Almost 4,000 companies have benefited from the program. Dozens of animals who are 'regularly in contact with people' worldwide 'may be susceptible to the coronavirus', research suggests. (Getty Images) Dozens of animal species worldwide may be susceptible to the coronavirus, research suggests. The previously unknown infection is thought to have started in bats, before jumping into humans, possibly via pangolins. Concerns were raised early in the outbreak when a dog in Hong Kong tested weak positive for the coronavirus, however, experts stressed there was no evidence pet animals can be a source of infection. A tiger in a New York zoo also hit the headlines when it caught the virus, even developing a tell-tale dry cough. Read more: Long COVID patient 'not the same person she was' When it comes to animals catching the coronavirus, experts have previously warned against mass hysteria. Scientists from University College London (UCL) have since reported, however, 26 creatures that are regularly in contact with people may be susceptible to the infection. Scientists from University College London identified sheep as being at-risk of infection. (Stock, Getty Images) The coronavirus enters cells when its so-called spike protein interacts with a receptor called ACE2. Based on existing evidence, the UCL team believe it is unlikely the virus could infect a species without binding to ACE2. The scientists therefore investigated ACE2 mutations across 215 animals. These mutations mean the receptor differs from the human version, reducing the stability of the binding complex between the virus spike protein and the hosts receptor. Results, published in the journal Scientific Reports, suggest that in animals like sheep and great apes chimpanzees, gorillas, orangutans and bonobos the virus spike protein and the species ACE2 receptor would be able to bind together just as strongly as they do when the virus infects people. Read more: How to swab a baby, toddler or child for coronavirus at home The scientists stressed, however, that for some species this is just a hypothesis. Sheep, for example, have not been studied for infection risk specifically, just spike protein and ACE2 binding. We wanted to look beyond just the animals that had been studied experimentally, to see which animals might be at risk of infection, and would warrant further investigation and possible monitoring, said lead author Professor Christine Orengo. Story continues The animals we identified may be at risk of outbreaks that could threaten endangered species or harm the livelihoods of farmers. The animals might also act as reservoirs of the virus, with the potential to re-infect humans later on, as has been documented on mink farms. These minks are thought to have been infected by farm workers. In a few cases, the minks have transmitted the virus to other people, in the first reported cases of animal-to-human transmission. Watch: The Bronx zoo tiger that tested positive for coronavirus When looking at the risk among different types of animals, the scientists predicted most birds, fish and reptiles do not appear capable of catching the coronavirus. Among mammals, however, most of the species they analysed could theoretically test positive, the results suggest. The team stressed further research is required. The details of host infection and severity of response are more complex than just the interactions of the spike protein with ACE2, so our research is continuing to explore interactions involving other host virus proteins, said Professor Orengo. Read more: One in 10 critically ill COVID patients has a cardiac arrest Co-author Professor Joanne Santini added: To protect animals, as well as to protect ourselves from the risk of one day catching COVID-19 [the disease caused by the coronavirus] from an infected animal, we need large-scale surveillance of animals, particularly pets and farm animals, to catch cases or clusters early on while theyre still manageable. It may also be important to employ hygiene measures when dealing with animals, similar to the behaviours weve all been learning this year to reduce transmission, and for infected people to isolate from animals as well as from other people. Are pets a risk amid coronavirus outbreak? According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the coronavirus spreads between humans. This mainly occurs when infected droplets are expelled in a cough or sneeze. There is also evidence the virus can survive on surfaces or be transmitted via faeces. Dogs and cats, both big and domestic, have tested positive for the infection. In experimental conditions, both cats and ferrets were able to transmit infection to other animals of the same species, according to the WHO. However, there is no evidence these animals can transmit the disease to humans and spread COVID-19. When news of the weak positive Hong Kong dog broke, Professor Jonathan Ball from the University of Nottingham stressed we have to differentiate between real infection and just detecting the presence of the virus. The fact the test result was weakly positive would suggest this is environmental contamination or simply the presence of coronavirus shed from human contact that has ended up in the dogs samples, he said. Professor Glenn Browning from the University of Melbourne agreed animal owners should not panic, adding: People appear to pose more risk to their pets than they do to us. The WHO stresses, however, anyone with confirmed or susceptible coronavirus should limit contact with companion and other animals. When handling and caring for animals, basic hygiene measures should always be implemented, it added. This includes hand washing after handling animals, their food or supplies, as well as avoiding kissing, licking or sharing food. Watch: UK coronavirus cases high but deaths low - why? The global pandemic has impacted the creative industries in Saudi Arabia: but the positive effects have outweighed the negative ones LONDON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- In Saudi Arabia, the cultural and arts scene is a strong one. But the creative industries are also forward looking with a focus on digital technology, industrial product design, and telecommunications. The Saudi government deliberately encourages the creative industries as it continues its diversification away from oil-based revenues. The creative industries are also seen as a medium of cultural exchange, a way of normalising Saudi culture in the eyes of other countries and developing relations with the rest of the world. As a result, considerable investment is going into the creative industries. One of the largest investments is Saudi Aramco's gift to the Kingdom of Ithra, an iconic building housing cultural exhibitions and workspaces. The organisation's aim is simple: "to enrich culture, art, and society". Until the start of 2020, the creative industries were growing rapidly. But then COVID-19 struck, and Saudi Arabia was affected as badly as anywhere. Some types of artistic endeavour such as film making and dance became impossible. And theatres and galleries shut, obliterating traditional revenue routes for many artists. But there were benefits too. The difficulties caused by the pandemic forced the arts and culture community to become more innovative about how they created and shared their artefacts. The inevitable move online has democratised art and culture, making it available to millions who previously would have found it difficult to visit galleries, museums and other cultural venues. Despite the pandemic, culture and creative industries remain strong. The government of Saudi Arabia has shown a strong determination to support arts and culture in the kingdom. As the world evolves, Saudi Arabia is transforming at an even greater pace. Culture is central to that change. To learn more about arts and culture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, read the full article. Notes for editors This press release has been provided by Business Reporter. Business Reporter is an award-winning supplement published in the Sunday and Daily Telegraph, City AM and online, delivering news and analysis on issues affecting businesses to a global audience. It also hosts conferences, debates, breakfast meetings and exclusive summits. About Saudi Aramco and Ithra SOURCE Business Reporter Berhampore/Kolkata: West Bengal minister of state (independent charge), mass education extension and library services, Siddiqullah Chowdhury, on Thursday called the ten persons who were arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) recently from West Bengal and Kerala for their alleged link to a terror module of Al-Qaeda "innocent." Clearly defending them, he also demanded their release and blamed the NIA and the Narendra Modi government of defaming the Muslim community in the name of terrorism. Chowdhury, who is also the state president of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, is the first member of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's Cabinet to react against the central agency's crackdown. At Berhampore district library office in Murshidabad, he claimed, "As far as my knowledge goes, all those who were arrested on the allegations of being terrorists of Al-Qaeda from Domkal and other places are totally innocent. Some of them had only read religious preacher Zakir Naik's books and pamphlets which is not a sin at all." The family members of the ten accused were present with Chowdhury at the press meet. Expressing his solidarity with them, he alleged that the BJP government at the Centre and the NIA have been trying hard to tarnish the image of Muslims by linking them to terrorism. "It is a dangerous ploy of central government," he added. Chowdhury even demanded that all those, who were arrested by the NIA, be freed because local clerics at the mosques have given them their certificate of innocence. By PTI NEW DELHI: A fresh batch of ink is being used in the COVID-19 quarantine stamp for international passengers at the Delhi international airport after a Congress leader complained about pain and itchiness due to the chemical used in it, said senior government officials on Monday. "After the complaint, the Delhi state authorities have started using a fresh batch of ink to stamp incoming international passengers," said one of the officials. As per rules, all international passengers have to undergo seven days of institutional quarantine followed by seven days of home quarantine post arriving in Delhi. However, certain categories of passengers like those with COVID-negative certificates from a test done 96 hours prior to the journey are exempted from institutional quarantine. Passengers who have to undergo quarantine at home are stamped "home quarantine" on their hands by the Delhi state authorities when they are leaving the Delhi airport. Madhu Goud Yaskhi, National Secretary and Spokesperson, Congress asked Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Twitter on Sunday if he can "please look into the chemical being used at Delhi airport for stamping on passengers coming from abroad". He said he was stamped when he came from abroad to Delhi on Saturday and it has been "continuously painful and itchy". Puri replied: "Thank you for drawing my attention to this. A have spoken to CMD AAI (Airports Authority of India)." However, since Delhi airport is managed by GMR-group led DIAL, it replied to Yaskhi on Twitter that "this batch of ink is being kept aside for testing by the supplier and further desired action". "We deeply regret the inconvenience caused. The ink used for stamping is a standard indelible ink. We've reported the issue to the Delhi state authorities," the DIAL added. Senior government officials said on Monday that the Delhi state authorities at the airport have started using a fresh batch of ink to stamp the incoming international passengers. Officials said that domestic passengers arriving in Delhi also have to undergo seven-day home quarantine as per the rules but they are not stamped on their hands. Scheduled international passenger services continue to remain suspended in India since March 23 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Special international flights have been operating under Vande Bharat Mission since May and under bilateral air bubble arrangements with other countries since July. Irelands top court says it knows what bread is, and the stuff Subway uses for its sandwiches isnt it. The amount of sugar used in the dough supplied by Subway and used in heated sandwiches exceeds the maximum level of sugar content for bread under Irish law, Supreme Court of Ireland Justice Donal ODonnell said in a judgment Tuesday, part of a tax case involving one of the chains franchisees. To be considered bread under the Value Added Tax Act, which dates to 1972, sugar can make up no more than two per cent of the weight of the flour used to make dough for bread, according to the ruling. Bread that meets the definition isnt taxed under the law. Sugar makes up 10 per cent of the weight of Subways flour in dough for the heated sandwiches, the judgment says. If one ingredient exceeds the limitation, the resulting product falls outside the definition of bread for the purposes of the act, Justice ODonnell wrote. He said his interpretation was consistent with common sense. Subway, run by Milford, Conn.-based Doctors Associates Inc., took issue with the decision. The company stated that its bread is, of course, bread. We have been baking fresh bread in our stores for more than three decades and our guests return each day for sandwiches made on bread that smells as good as it tastes, according to a statement provided by the company. News of the judgment ricocheted around the world, forcing sandwich aficionados to think through their understanding of bread and parse out the definition between the sandwich carbohydrate and dessert. Sugary bread is not statutory bread. Only statutory bread can get the favourable tax treatment, Emer Hunt, a lecturer in tax law at University College Dublins Sutherland School of Law, said in an email. But Phil Hamilton, who lives near St. Louis, said it is clear what is on offer when customers get asked if they want wheat or white bread at Subway locations. In colloquial form, everyone in the world considers those two forms bread, he said Oonagh Monahan, a food scientist and author in Ireland, said she worried the ruling could confuse consumers, noting that most breads dont have any added sugars. What the legislation says and what people think it is might not be the same thing, she said. The ruling Thursday is tied to a tax dispute that began in 2006, when a franchisee that operated a Subway location in Galway sought a refund for certain taxes it paid during the previous two years. Chris Talbot, who said he previously owned the Galway store involved in the case, said, Were exploring our options with the verdict. The Phnom Penh Municipal Court convicted online journalist Sovann Rithy on Monday morning and handed him an 18-month suspended sentence, nearly six months after he was arrested for reporting comments made by Prime Minister Hun Sen. Court spokesperson Kuch Kimlong confirmed that Sovann Rithy, who runs Facebook news outlet FB TV, had been convicted for incitement and sentenced under Article 494 and 495 of the Cambodian Criminal Code. Kuch Kimlong confirmed that the 18 months prison sentence had been suspended and that Sovann Rithy would be released from detention. The presiding judge of the Phnom Penh court decided to sentence him to 18 months in prison for incitement, but the remaining prison term has been suspended as of todays verdict, Kuch Kimlong said. VOA Khmer could not reach Sovann Rithy or his family for comment. The online journalist was arrested in early April and charged with incitement after he reported comments made by Hun Sen at a press conference. The prime minister had said that informal workers, including motorcycle taxi drivers, should sell their vehicles to buy rice because the government could not help them during the COVID-19 economic downturn. Shortly after, Sovann Rithy posted a photo of a motorcycle driver on Facebook, with the accompanying text: If the moto-taxi driver is bankrupt, they can sell their moto because the government is unable to help. At the April 7 press conference, Hun Sen had said, As you asked me about moto drivers complaining whether the state can support them, [they] can sell the motors and buy rice to eat first. The state doesnt have money to support. Local police officers justified the arrest by saying Hun Sen was speaking in jest and the quote should not have been taken seriously. Additionally, the Ministry of Information revoked his online publications license on April 9. Ith Sothoeuth, media director at the Cambodian Center for Independent Media, said Sovann Rithy should not have been convicted for relaying the prime ministers own words. Advertisement Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, also witnessed around 50 per cent fall in the cases related to Typhoid. However, the same situation was not reported in the cases of Influenza."There has been a surge in flu (Influenza) cases recently, but again, the surge is expected during this season so not much variation from the routine," said Parul Kakkar, consultant, internal medicine, at the hospital.BLK Hospital in Rajendra Place, which also saw a notable decrease in Typhoid and Influenza cases, said that cases of Typhoid and Influenza decrease with the end of monsoon. However, they did not reach their peak this year."During the monsoon season, normally the typhoid cases increase every year, which usually decreases by the end of this season. However, this was not the case this year," Rajinder Kumar Singal, senior director & head of the department of internal medicine at BLK.The doctors attributed two scenarios behind the fall in the cases of Typhoid and influenza. One is a newfound change in the lifestyle enforced by the COVID-19 pandemic where eating home-cooked food and maintaining an optimum level of hygiene have become an integral part of life."During the current pandemic, everything around us is undergoing a change, including our lifestyle, eating habits and socializing etiquettes. Thankfully not every change is for the worse! The number of typhoid and hepatitis cases this year has decreased, and the full credit goes to our renewed respect and regard for the home-cooked "safe and healthy food "."People are avoiding outside food and have not been going to eateries. Also, school and colleges are closed too. Elderly people are avoiding the parks and outdoor activities," reasoned Pankaj Solanki who runs Dharmaveer Solanki Multi-Speciality Hospital in Rohini.Another reason behind the recorded fall in Typhoid and influenza cases is the less reporting due to fear induced by the COVID-19 outbreak. Doctors said people wish to avoid coming to hospitals. Also they relate the symptoms of the two seasonal illnesses with the COVID-19 disease."They are worried that they will have to follow isolation or hospital admission if they are confirmed with the Covid-19. This fear is making them not report the cases of Typhoid and Influenza," said Singh.Solanki also said that people tend not to report the case as they relate the symptoms of the two viral illnesses, especially Influenza with the COVID-19 disease."Most of the people who had symptoms did not come forward due to the fear of COVID-19 testing and mandatory isolation that follows. People are not reporting it as they are afraid of coming to the hospital as they assume the fever and other symptoms of Typhoid and Influenza are due to the COVID-19. So they are treating themselves at home," he added.The symptoms of COVID-19 are almost similar to the Typhoid and Influenza, particularly. In the Typhoid, people usually have a sustained fever (one that doesn't come and go) that can be as high as 103-104 degrees fahrenheit (39-40 degrees Celsius). Some people with typhoid fever or paratyphoid fever develop rash or rose-coloured spots. Cough and sore throat are also symptoms.Just like the SARS-CoV-2, which causes the COVID-19, Influenza also attacks the respiratory system -- nose, throat and lungs. Its symptoms include fever, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, aching muscles and shortness of breath.Source: IANS Qiao Jie, academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, Executive Deputy Director of Peking University Health Science Center, and President of Peking University Third Hospital, wins the title of the National March 8th Red-banner Holder on September 29. [China Women's News] A total of 800 individuals and 200 collectives received the titles of the National March 8th Red-banner Holder and the National March 8th Red-banner Collective respectively at a commendation ceremony held in Beijing on September 29. "The greatest spiritual strength lies in the sense of mission and responsibility of medical workers," said Qiao Jie, one of the recipients of the title of the National March 8th Red-banner Holder. Qiao, 56, academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, Executive Deputy Director of Peking University Health Science Center and President of Peking University Third Hospital, has been engaged in clinical and basic research related to obstetrics and reproductive health over the years. After the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, as the team leader of the Peking University's medical team to aid Central China's Hubei Province, Qiao rushed to Wuhan, capital city of Hubei Province, to treat critically ill patients. She served on the front line in the hardest-hit city in China for 66 days. Qiao and her team put the safety of patients' lives first. She said that the medical team was composed of doctors and nurses from different departments, and they worked in shifts 24 hours a day. In the face of challenges, they did their best to increase cure rate and lower the mortality rate, she added. Zhang Nan, a supervising nurse at the Orthopedics Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of the Air Force Medical University [China Women's News] Zhang Nan, a supervising nurse at the Orthopedics Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of the Air Force Medical University, was one of the first group of women medical workers from the university to assist Hubei Province. She pitched in to help in the fight against SARS in 2003, working in Beijing's Xiaotangshan Hospital for more than 50 consecutive days. Five years later, she participated in the relief work after Wenchuan earthquake. After the outbreak of COVID-19, she took the initiative to support Hubei, saving more than 80 critically ill patients. According to Zhang, the pursuit of medical workers is to protect patients' lives with kindness and love. "As a 'white angel,' I will carry forward the great anti-epidemic spirit, stay true to the original aspirations, work hard and be loyal to the Party, the people and the mission," she vowed. Wang Yaling, secretary of Bairuijing Community and president of the Women's Federation of Bairuijing Community, in Wuchang District, Wuhan City, Central China's Hubei Province [China Women's News] Wang Yaling, secretary of Bairuijing Community and president of the Women's Federation of Bairuijing Community, in Wuchang District, Wuhan City, led her colleagues in fighting the virus for more than 120 days on the front line. Bairuijing is home to more than 8,400 households and 21,300 individuals, making it the community with the largest number of residents in Wuchang District. However, it only has 23 community workers, 80 percent of whom are women, serving nearly 1,000 residents per capita. Thanks to Wang's strong leadership and scientific arrangements in terms of epidemic containment and community assistance, more than 400 community residents were mobilized to offer voluntary services in just 20 days. Anti-epidemic knowledge was promoted through a WeChat mini program, community's official WeChat account, QQ groups and electronic screens in the community. Wang also organized community workers to conduct disinfection in public places and help transfer 107 confirmed or suspected cases and more than 200 fever patients to hospitals and clinics. Liu Xian, owner of a boxed-meal restaurant chain in Chengdu, capital city of Southwest China's Sichuan Province. She provided food for frontline medics in Wuhan City during the COVID-19 outbreak. [China Women's News] Liu Xian, 24, owner of a boxed-meal restaurant chain in Chengdu, capital city of Southwest China's Sichuan Province, shared her experience and feelings in Wuhan City amid the COVID-19 outbreak at the event. Liu and her team rushed to Wuhan, then hardest-hit place of China from 1,200 kilometers away and cooked 20,000 meals for frontline medical workers for free in over 40 days from early February to March. Liu got the nickname "raincoat girl" among residents in Wuhan as she wore raincoat when cooking and delivering food because the protective suits were not enough at that time. Liu never stopped her work in public welfare undertaking. When she returned to Chengdu, she established a medical equipment company to help local Hubei people find employment. Sometimes, she hosts livestreaming shows to help promote agricultural products. Viya, one of China's most popular livestreaming hosts on e-commerce platform Taobao [China Women's News] "I felt honored to receive this award that signifies affirmation from the country and society," said Viya, one of China's most popular livestreaming hosts on e-commerce platform Taobao, adding that she would make continuous efforts to do something new and meaningful. During the epidemic outbreak, Viya and her team supported Hubei to resume production by donating materials worth over four million yuan (US$588,000) and holding livestreaming promotional activities. Also, she cooperated with other companies to donate books valued at two million yuan (US $293,815) to 20 primary schools in poverty-stricken areas in Hubei. Digitalization has brought convenience to women in both life and work, where people can get a job or obtain knowledge online, said Viya, adding that she hoped more and more women could improve themselves in the new era. (Source: China Women's News/Translated and edited by Women of China) ITHACA, N.Y. - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture has awarded a $779,000 grant to Cornell AgriTech researchers to combat fire blight, one of the most devastating bacterial diseases for the apple and pear industries. This fall, Awais Khan and Kerik Cox, associate professors of plant pathology and plant-microbe biology, will start working with collaborators from across the U.S. on a four-year project to develop a comprehensive fire blight management strategy for American fruit growers. Cox's goal is to better understand the first stage of the disease, called blossom blight. "The most critical time period is the blossom phase because the blossom is the pathogen's first means of entry into the tree," he said. "Even just a few infected blossoms can lead to complete orchard devastation in a matter of weeks." Cox will assess the genetic response that occurs in apple trees following treatment with a variety of natural and synthetic defense inducers during the blossom phase in order to improve application timing and efficacy under changing environmental conditions and newer cultivars. Defense inducers turn on plants' natural defenses, allowing them to effectively wage biochemical warfare against invading pathogens like fire blight. Because the plant defenses attack numerous bacterial processes, the practice is considered sustainable because bacteria are unable to evolve mutation to overcome them all simultaneously. Additionally, Cox plants to test plant growth regulators, which are hormones that can be used to promote or delay ripening, and enhance or retard vegetative growth. Cox will use these regulators to slow shoot growth when trees are at high risk for infection. The approach causes apple trees to be less suitable for infection and colonization by the fire blight bacterium, which dies without a host. Khan's research focus will be two-pronged: to identify new genetic sources of fire blight resistance; and to develop pre-breeding lines that are high quality, and fire blight resistant through a sped-up process known as rapid cycle breeding. Pre-breeding lines are combinations of desirable genes from different cultivated and wild apples that breeders like Susan Brown, the Herman M. Cohn Professor of Agriculture and Life science, can use to produce new cultivars for apple growers. "Most of the newer apples released in the U.S. are highly susceptible to the disease even though they are what consumers are looking for in terms of taste," said Khan. "Pre-breeding lines help breeders develop varieties that have both the taste consumers want and the resistance growers need." To produce the lines, Khan will take fire blight resistant genes, found in wild apples, and make crosses with high-quality apples. Additional crosses will then be made until Khan has achieved maximum quality and resistance. Rapid cycle breeding involves the use of an early flowering gene found in birch trees, which Khan will cross with fire blight resistant wild apples. The resulting plant will flower in just one year; normal cross breeding would take five years. "We're hoping to give growers more ammunition against one of the biggest threats they face in orchards today," Cox said. "The most rewarding element of this project is that our work will not only benefit New York growers, but the entire U.S. apple industry." ### The $779,000 award is part of a $5.2 million overall grant, awarded to several academic institutions. Collaborators on the grant include researchers from Michigan State University, the University of Illinois, the University of California, Washington State University, North Carolina State University, Oregon State University and the University of New Hampshire. A limited number of citizens and residents of Saudi Arabia can now perform umrah at the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, seven months after the pilgrimage that draws millions to the kingdom each year was put on hold due to the coronavirus. Some 6,000 people performed the ritual on Sunday while adhering to strict social distancing measures. The Interior Ministry announced last month that authorities would gradually increase the number of pilgrims allowed in Meccas Grand Mosque. By Nov. 1, Saudi officials plan to welcome up to 20,000 pilgrims and 60,000 for prayer daily from a list of countries considered safe for travel. Visitors must observe health protocols, including wearing face masks and avoiding physical contact, and are required to reserve a time and date on an app developed by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. In March, the kingdom suspended umrah pilgrimages, which attract some 19 million people to the holy cities annually, as part of measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus. The bigger summer pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, known as the hajj, was limited to just a few thousand socially distanced citizens and residents this July. Religious tourism revenues have plunged in recent months. Before the pandemic, the oil-dependent kingdom set a target of hosting 6 million people for the hajj and 30 million for umrah by 2030. Saudi Arabia has the highest case count among the Gulf Arab states, but health officials in Saudi Arabia have observed a declining number of coronavirus cases in recent days. The Health Ministry confirmed another 379 infections on Monday, bringing the total since early March to 336,766. With 23 more deaths from the virus, the death toll now stands at 4,898. Of the new infections, 82 cases were recorded in the holy city of Medina. [Follow our daily updates on the latest presidential election polls.] ERIE, Pa. The cool breezes arrived a few weeks ago, coming in after a long summer of protest, illness and economic devastation. They brought a chilling reminder: Nov. 3 is almost here. Brenton Davis has stocked up on guns and ammo. Kathy Fatica is considering leaving the country, mulling the options for dual citizenship. The morning that the United States learned the president had tested positive for a dangerous virus, Eric Hawes had the same sentiment about what lies ahead that he has had for weeks: Its going to be hell no matter what. Since 2016, when Erie County gave a slim majority of its votes to Donald J. Trump after years as a Democratic bastion, this slice of northwestern Pennsylvania has been seen as an especially precise gauge of the national political mood. The United States is separated into two mutually distrustful political camps, but in Erie, the camps sit side by side friends, neighbors and family members who live and work together yet cannot fathom why the others believe the way they do. These days, Erie is carpeted with campaign banners and signs, one yard often facing off against the next, a battle posture borne out by national surveys finding the highest share of Americans in decades more than four in five who believe the outcome of the election really matters. Mount Pleasant saw coronavirus cases soar for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began when Central Michigan University students returned to campus in August for the fall semester, as the virus quickly spread through parties and off-campus student gatherings. University administrators didnt take the surge in cases lightly, soon responding with threats of suspension for students who attended parties and a halt on in-person Greek Life activities. The response paid off as new cases have since steadied at CMU. YEREVAN, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. A number of prominent Israeli scholars are calling on the Israeli government to immediately suspend sales of arms to Azerbaijan amid the latters attacks on Artsakh. In an open letter regarding the ongoing fighting in Artsakh, they called for a ceasefire and stressed that independent accounts and analysis show that the ongoing hostilities are due solely to aggression of the Republic of Azerbaijan, supported by Turkey and backed up by fighters from elsewhere in the region". The scholars called on their countrymen to raise their voice about this issue. Michael Stone from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, a signatory of the letter, published it on his social media account: An Open Letter regarding the Fighting in Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh) The following represents the personal views of a group of Israeli scholars of Caucasian and associated studies, and does not reflect the positions of the Hebrew University nor its Armenian Studies Program. We the undersigned write to express our deep concern with the fighting that has flared up in the region of Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh). From a reading of independent accounts and analysis we have concluded that this outbreak of violence in the last few days is due solely to aggression of the Republic of Azerbaijan, supported by Turkey and backed up by fighters from elsewhere in the region. This belligerence has been directed towards military and civilian targets in the Republic of Artsakh and its mainly Armenian population, and deserves to be condemned in no uncertain terms. The response of the Republic of Artsakh and the Republic of Armenia is clearly one of defense of population, property and territory, and should enjoy the support of those who cherish the principle of self-determination of peoples. We call for an end to this aggression, and a cessation of the fighting. The long-term answer to tension in the region is on-going negotiations that will aim to resolve the claims of various ethnic groups, leading to a mutually agreed upon political arrangement. Clearly, violence of any type will not resolve ethnic and other tensions. It is with dismay that we address the matter of Israeli arms sales to Azerbaijan in recent years, this being one component in the massive armament process in that country. We call upon the Israeli government to cease immediately the sales of arms to Azerbaijan, pending a review of the issue by the government and Knesset. Matters of would-be Realpolitik, as reflected here in arm sales, are not the only basis for foreign policy. Certainly, one needs to question Israels role in an armament effort aimed mainly against a people that like the Jewish people suffered genocidal attacks in the twentieth century. We call upon other Israelis to raise their voice on this important issue. (in alphabetical order) Prof. Reuven Amitai Prof. Yair Auron Prof. Israel Charny Ms. Moran Deitch Prof. Benjamin Z. Kedar Mr. Yoav Loeff Prof. Benny Morris Prof. Eli Richter Prof. Donna Shalev Mr. Marc Sherman Prof. Michael Stone Dr. Yana Tcheknanovets Prof. Dror Zeevi, reads the letter. Earlier the Armenian intelligence agency had also disclosed evidence of Turkish military involvement in the Azeri attacks on Artsakh. The Azeri forces are using many Israeli-made munitions in the attacks, including on civilian settlements, notably the LORA missile and UAVs. Numerous reports have been made about Turkey having recruited Syrian jihadists and having sent them to Azerbaijan for the attacks. This has already been confirmed by France and the USA. Editing by Stepan Kocharyan Wales is 'actively considering' imposing travel quarantine restrictions on visitors from coronavirus hotspots elsewhere in the UK. Welsh Health Minister Vaughan Gething today said the devolved administration is looking at rolling out quarantine on inward travel from certain areas in a bid to crackdown on the spread of the disease. First Minister Mark Drakeford has previously called on Boris Johnson to introduce travel restrictions for people in areas of England which are under local lockdown. In Wales, people must not enter or leave an area subjected to such restrictions without a reasonable excuse which does not include travelling for a holiday. Welsh Health Minister Vaughan Gething today said the Welsh Government is 'actively considering' imposing quarantine on visitors from coronavirus hotspots elsewhere in the UK Requiring visitors from hotspot areas in the UK to self-isolate for 14 days is likely to cause controversy because it would effectively amount to a travel ban for some people planning short trips to Wales. But Mr Gething confirmed at a press conference that the move is being considered. He said: 'We're actively considering what we should do and I've discussed it this morning with the First Minister. 'We have quarantine regulations for international travel. 'So for some of the hotspot areas in the north of England, the North East and North West, and the West Midlands, if they were other countries or territories, we would have quarantine regulations for them to return to the UK.' Mr Gething said any potential quarantine restrictions would apply to people from 'high incidence areas across the UK'. 'We're having to consider how we use our power to protect lower-prevalence areas of Wales but at the same time, we don't want to take a whole-nation approach,' Mr Gething said. 'There's no good reason to prevent someone from Devon, at this point in time, coming to visit a pre-booked holiday or trip to Pembrokeshire. 'So we are thinking about how we use something that is proportionate and deals with the reality of the threat that we face.' Mr Gething said the Welsh Government is consulting its scientific and public health experts and will then decide 'whether this is the right course of action'. 'Because the measures we've introduced in Wales are about isolating areas with a higher prevalence of coronavirus and protecting lower prevalence areas too,' he said. 'It's consistent with the approach that all four UK nations have taken to international travel and quarantine restrictions, where we recognise that higher prevalence areas in other parts of the world represent a risk to coronavirus being re-imported or having an opportunity to spread further within the UK.' Mr Gething said it was 'disappointing' that Mr Johnson had not responded to a letter from Mr Drakeford asking for travel restrictions to apply to areas of England under local lockdown. In an interview with BBC Wales, Mr Johnson had said he did not want to impose such restrictions within the UK. - The association aims to offer short courses to skill, re-skill and up-skill both individuals and the organisations through the FutureSkills platform of NASSCOM NEW DELHI, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- NASSCOM FutureSkills and DeakinCo., the corporate division of Deakin University, Australia, announced their partnership to offer free courses in communication for skilling, reskilling and upskilling programs in India, to help individuals and organizations prepare for now and future work trends in IT-BPM sector. The virtual launch was conducted in the presence of His Excellency, Shri A Gitesh Sharma, Indian High Commissioner to Australia and His Excellency, Barry O'Farrell AO, Australian High Commissioner to India, Mr S Ramadorai, Former Vice Chairman, TCS alongside other senior representatives from Deakin University and NASSCOM. The strategic association between DeakinCo. and NASSCOM FutureSkills presents new possibilities and aims to facilitate a Skill Development and Continuous Learning Framework by making available DeakinCo. short courses that focus on content, high quality delivery and industry connections, to enable the skilling/re-skilling and up-skilling imperative for the IT-BPM industry and related stakeholders in India. Under the collaboration, DeakinCo. will develop the short courses with a focus on the essential skills mandated by emerging technologies coupled with COVID-19 induced lockdown, which have transformed the future of work. Responding to industry needs, DeakinCo. has specifically curated two short courses focused on communication skills, initially at the foundation level (early careerists) and proficient level (team leaders), for the IT-BPM sector. Delivered completely online and based on a self-paced format, the programs will be available on the FutureSkills platform. Further, as an indication of DeakinCo.'s commitment to this new association with NASSCOM FutureSkills, the courses will be available free of cost for the first six months. Thereafter, DeakinCo. will expand its upskilling product offering both additional workforce levels and skill areas. Speaking on the collaboration, Amit Aggarwal, Co-Architect NASSCOM FutureSkills & CEO, IT-ITES Sector Skill Council, NASSCOM said, "As industries are getting disrupted by new technologies, the skills needed for new jobs are going to be different. NASSCOM FutureSkills is committed to enable employees of India's IT-ITES sector to get started with their journey to build these new skills. We are also expanding our focus to include talent in other industries and university/college students who will soon join the work-force. There is an enormous shortage of talent on new-age skills. We are pleased to have DeakinCo. join us as a partner in our journey to build India as a global hub for Digital Talent." Speaking on the initiative, Professor Iain Martin, President and Vice-Chancellor, Deakin University said, "The strengthening of Australia-India bilateral ties through skill development and education is an important priority for both nations. While the IT industry has always promoted continuous improvement in skills, we are extremely pleased that NASSCOM FutureSkills has chosen to partner with DeakinCo. to increase the scope of their mission. DeakinCo.'s training programs blend the academic rigour of Deakin University with extensive industry and practitioner insights. As such, DeakinCo. is well positioned to support NASSCOM FutureSkills' commitment to the creation of a highly skilled workforce that can benefit and sustain India's economic rise." The High Commissioners' elaborated that education and skilling are the two most important pillars of the future for any economy and that for India and Australia to realise joint ambitions, such skilling and training partnerships like the one between DeakinCo. and NASSCOM FutureSkills, will be extremely beneficial to equipping a workforce to take advantage of emerging needs and opportunities. "We are delighted to associate with NASSCOM in addressing the skilling needs of the workforce of the future. DeakinCo.'s focus is on developing workforce capabilities essential for organisations and individuals to adapt to a changing work landscape, with this year's pandemic yet the latest dynamic impacting on global workplaces. Our programs are developed with extensive input from industry practitioners to ensure they address real-world needs of modern work environments," said, Glenn Campbell, CEO, DeakinCo. As a way forward, the partners also aim to facilitate research initiatives in the areas of skilling, reskilling and upskilling and make it available in the public domain. About: DeakinCo. is the corporate division of Australia's most progressive international education provider, Deakin University. DeakinCo. is a pioneer of workplace transformation for the future of work. DeakinCo.'s mission is to help organisations and individuals build the emerging and in-demand skills required to succeed in the workplace today and tomorrow. DeakinCo. creates real-world workplace learning and skill assessment experiences that have an immediate impact on learners. Our solutions offer a blended learning journey that is immersive, practical, sustainable and empowering, resulting in long-term business impact and improved performance outcomes. For more information, please visit www.deakinco.com or write to [email protected] National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM) is an association for IT/ITeS Companies, IT-ITeS Sector Skills Council NASSCOM (SSC NASSCOM) being an integral part of NASSCOM is the education & skill development initiative of NASSCOM. It works with its industry members and select academic and skill development institutions to help improve the quality and quantity of the employable workforce available to this industry. NASSCOM FutureSkills is a first-of-its-kind industry initiative to get India started/accelerated on the journey to building skills and becoming the global hub for talent in the emerging technologies, with an intention to create a skilling/ up-skilling/re-skilling ecosystem to facilitate continuous learning as well as knowledge enhancement of all applicants in line with their aspirations and aptitude in a digital skill environment. SOURCE DeakinCo. New Delhi: India has assured Myanmar on giving the country priority on COVID-19 vaccine and speeding up infrastructure projects in the country during Indian Army Chief General MM Naravane and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's two-day visit. A release by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, "It was also agreed to deepen cooperation to overcome the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Foreign Secretary indicated Indias willingness to prioritize Myanmar in sharing vaccines as and when these become available." Earlier on Monday, Army Chief and Foreign Secretary presented 3,000 vials of Remdesivir to Myanmar's State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi as a "symbol" of Indias commitment to assist Myanmar in its fight against the pandemic. The Myanmar Foreign Ministry mentioned about both countries discussing "the possibility of joint production of COVID-19 vaccine". On the infrastructure front, operationalization of the Sittwe Port in the early part of 2021 was a key point of discussion. It is to be noted that this was discussed during last week's virtual India-Myanmar Foreign Office Consultations also. An MEA release on the outcome of the visit explained, "Both sides also discussed progress in the ongoing Indian-assisted infrastructure projects such as the Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project." Sittwe is part of India built mega Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, which will improve connectivity with Myanmar, by creating transport corridor for shipment of cargo from the eastern ports of India to Myanmar. The release added, both sides "exchanged views on early initiation of work on fresh initiatives such as the up-gradation of Yamethin Women's Police Academy, Basic Technical Training School and measures to provide long term sustainability to projects such as the Myanmar Institute of Information Technology." Live TV India has also announced a grant of USD two million for the construction of the border haat bridge at Byanyu/Sarsichauk in Myanmar's Chin State which will provide increased economic connectivity between Mizoram and Myanmar. A quota of 1.5 lakh tonnes of Urad for import from Myanmar till March 31, 2021, was also announced. During the meet, Army Chief and Shringla called on State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and the Commander in Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing. Army Chief also met Vice Senior General Soe Win, Deputy Commander-in-Chief, Myanmar Armed Services and FS met U Soe Han, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar. Japan - How will you cope with the death of your mother or spouse? Their death may disturb your concentration, causing accidents or lowering your productivity. Some bereaved cannot sleep, and others cannot get out of bed. Some lose all appetite, while others binge eat constantly. Some grow alcoholic, and some suicidal. Our responses may depend on our family, culture, community, or belief-systems, but we all struggle to accept our loved ones' deaths. The cost of grief is not confined to personal mental anguish. It reduces productivity, causes dependency on medicine and social services, and increases mortality risks for survivors. While this is well documented in Europe, we have little data for Japan, the world's most elderly country. To fill this gap, a research team led by Kyoto University is conducting a nationwide survey of bereavement. "Japan's society is rapidly aging. By 2030, nearly everyone in Japan will suffer the death of a parent, elder relative, spouse, or close friend," explains lead author Carl Becker of the Center for the Promotion of Interdisciplinary Education and Research, who garnered the 2020 Educator Award from the international Association for Death Education and Counseling. "Recent UK studies suggest that about 10% of bereaved individuals show significant decline in health, resulting in prolonged use of resources. If Japan faces the same percent, the impact will be catastrophic." The team decided to conduct similar surveys throughout Japan with additional questions focusing on economic and lifestyle changes. Their pilot report -- published in the journal OMEGA -- shows that deeper grief correlates with an overarching decline in quality of life, seen in physical ailments, more down time, and higher rates of medical reliance. Interestingly, lower income families lost more productivity and pharmaceutical expenses, while lower satisfaction with funerals was linked to higher medical costs. Results show that bereaved Japanese are similar to Europeans in their losses of everything from time, productivity, health, and medical expenses. Factors like the circumstances of death, the loss of income, lack of family or social support, and satisfaction with funeral proceedings can help predict who may need the most help in the future. "By identifying key problems, we can begin to see what solutions are required to mitigate severe bereavement," states Tohoku University's Yozo Taniyama, second author of the study. "For example, better testing, medical care, and psychological treatment can help people handle unexpected death. More robust financial and social aid can help with the loss of income." Tradition and rituals appear to facilitate better responses as well. Funeral services offer friends and relations a chance to reconnect and support the bereaved, reducing their loneliness and isolation. Moreover, rituals help the bereaved to come to terms with death. The research team predicted that people with low or declining incomes would find funeral costs more burdensome. Although that group did lose more time and spend more on pharmaceuticals, they displayed little dissatisfaction with funeral costs. In fact, the people who expressed greater dissatisfaction were those who abbreviated funerals, who later tended to show higher rates of physical as well as psychological problems. Becker concludes, "Japan has a tradition of ceremonies that bring people together to help the bereaved process their trauma. Much of the world is learning from Japan's traditions that value spiritual bonds with departed loved ones. It is healthier to revere our dead than to try to forget them." ### The paper "How Grief, Funerals, and Poverty Affect Bereaved Health, Productivity, and Medical Dependence in Japan" appeared on 25 August 2020 in OMEGA, with doi: 10.1177/0030222820947573 About Kyoto University Kyoto University is one of Japan and Asia's premier research institutions, founded in 1897 and responsible for producing numerous Nobel laureates and winners of other prestigious international prizes. A broad curriculum across the arts and sciences at both undergraduate and graduate levels is complemented by numerous research centers, as well as facilities and offices around Japan and the world. For more information please see: http://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/en STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 5, ARMENPRESS. President of Artsakh Arayik Harutyunyan addressed words of gratitude and appraisal on the occasion of the Teachers Day. Dear compatriots, Dear teachers, Today is your professional day. Traditionally, every year we are addressing words of congratulation and appreciation to you. But today I want to express my gratitude to you for our heroic generation, for those courageous Armenians, who, after learning your lesson of patriotism in a brilliant manner, today are giving a lesson of bravery and heroism in the battlefield, creating one of the most crucial pages of the history of the Armenian people. The nation, who has such dedicated teachers and generation, is celebrating and will celebrate only victories. Peace to you, our people and the Homeland, the Artsakh President said on Facebook. Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan Tammy Hembrow went public with new boyfriend Matt Poole last month. And the pair appear as smitten as ever, sharing a rather intimate moment to Instagram Stories on Monday. In the video, posted by Tammy, 26, Matt massages her feet while she giggles beside him. Smitten: Tammy Hembrow (left) and new boyfriend Matt Poole (right) appear as smitten as ever, sharing an intimate moment to Instagram Stories on Monday Matt, 32, looks lost in thought while he gives the model's foot, which is decorated with white nail polish, a good kneading. The pair appear to be cuddled up together in bed at home, having a relaxing night watching TV. The couple's romantic display comes after Matt made his debut on Tammy's YouTube channel last month and answered a series of questions from her fans. Cute: In the video, posted by Tammy, 26, Matt, massaged her feet while she giggled beside him. The pair appeared to be cuddled up together in bed at home Loved up: Tammy went public with Matt last month and the pair are big on PDAs The genetically blessed couple revealed who was the 'most dominant' in their relationship, and also who'd been the first to say 'I love you'. 'I think you're the dominant one,' Matt said. 'I go along and I go along, and then when you push me too far, I snap, and you go, "Oh, too far."' 'Yeah, I would agree,' Tammy responded. 'I just think I'm quite a dominant person.' In the hot seat: The couple's affectionate display comes after Matt made his debut on Tammy's YouTube channel last month and answered a series of questions from her fans Loved up: The pair, who met at an event in Bali last year, revealed who'd said 'I love you' first The pair, who met at an event in Bali last year, also revealed who'd said 'I love you' first. 'I did. I am obsessed,' Matt admitted, before Tammy explained how Matt had confessed his feelings after they'd 'had a little fight' on holiday in the Whitsundays in September. 'We had a little fight over nothing, and then when he was trying to make up with me and apologise, he told me he loved me,' the fitness mogul said with a smile. HARRISBURG Republican governors and lawmakers in many states have followed President Donald Trumps lead on their response to the coronavirus, declining to impose mask mandates and pushing to lift restrictions on businesses and social gatherings as swiftly as possible. Revelations that the president and first lady are now among those who have tested positive for the disease appeared to do little to change their thinking. In the hours after the nation learned that Trump had tested positive for the virus, Republican-controlled courts, conservative groups and Republican lawmakers continued to move against mask mandates and other coronavirus restrictions. In Michigan on Friday, the state Supreme Court, which has a Republican majority, struck down a law that has underpinned months of orders by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, including a mask mandate, that were aimed at preventing the spread of the coronavirus. That 1945 law is unconstitutional, it said. It was an extraordinary development in a nasty fight between Whitmer, a Democrat, and Republicans who control the Legislature. At one point in the spring, protesters and an armed militia filled the statehouse to demand an end to the restrictions some labeled tyranny. Right before Fridays ruling, a conservative group, with support from Republican lawmakers, turned in 539,000 signatures to put legislation before lawmakers to repeal the 75-year-old law. Also Friday, Republicans who control the Louisiana House of Representatives supported a package of measures aimed at unraveling the states coronavirus restrictions imposed by Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat. I dont think that the president having COVID is any more important than every Louisianian thats had COVID, so it doesnt really change my perspective on it, said Rep. Julie Emerson, a Republican from suburban south-central Louisiana. Rep. Tanner Magee, the chambers No. 2 Republican from a seafood and oil industry hub in southeastern Louisiana, said its a false narrative that Republicans are not concerned about public health. We are. Were just concerned about both public health and the state of our economy and seeing how we can move forward in a way that addresses both issues, Magee said. In Wisconsin, where rising case counts have made the state third in the nation in new cases per capita, according to the COVID Tracking Project, Republicans who control the Legislature filed a court motion Friday in support of a lawsuit seeking to repeal a mask mandate under Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat. That prompted a Twitter response from Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, a Democrat: Republican legislators have officially joined Covid-19 in the fight against Wisconsinites. The president of the conservative organization that is suing Evers over the mask mandate said he would press forward with the lawsuit, regardless of Trumps diagnosis. There is no pandemic exception to the rule of law or our Constitution, said Rick Esenberg of the Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty. Similar power struggles have played out ever since the beginning of the virus outbreak in numerous states, mostly where the governor is a Democrat and Republicans control the legislature. Kansas has had one of the longest running feuds, since Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly closed schools in March and imposed stay-at-home orders and restrictions on businesses and social gatherings. Republican lawmakers, who already had forced Kelly to accept local control over coronavirus restrictions, are now considering creating a panel with permanent oversight of how the governor handles extended emergencies. In GOP-controlled Legislatures in Ohio, Michigan and Pennsylvania, Democrats pushed Republican majority leaders to toughen their policy on masks for lawmakers on official business, force Republican members to actually comply with it or simply implement one. Ohio state Rep. Kent Smith, a Democrat from suburban Cleveland, asked for a mask mandate for committee hearings and floor sessions. Its not clear how many Republican lawmakers from the state interacted with Trump who was there Tuesday for the debate with Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden or his entourage in recent days, Smith said. The work of the people need not become a super spreader event during a global pandemic without a treatment or cure, he said in a statement. Some top Republicans, including Ohio Senate President Larry Obhof, said they were comfortable with the existing protocols, while others said they cannot force rank-and-file lawmakers to obey them. Rep. John Becker, a Republican from Cincinnati who has led efforts to undo the coronavirus restrictions and mask mandate imposed by Gov. Mike DeWine, a fellow Republican, said he hasnt changed his mind. He said he still wont wear a mask but doesnt begrudge those who do. When it comes to masks, he said, Im pro-choice. On Thursday, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives canceled its floor session on the news that a second Republican member had tested positive. House Minority Leader Frank Dermody, a Pittsburgh-area Democrat, unloaded stinging criticism after months of watching Republicans many of them flouting the chambers mask-wearing protocol and a statewide mask mandate pass more than a half-dozen veto-bound bills to strip or limit Democratic Gov. Tom Wolfs power to impose coronavirus restrictions. Trumps reckless approach has seeped down to his Republican counterparts, who have blocked a resolution to enshrine a mask mandate in the chambers rules, Dermody said. Its time that we realize that we are in this situation and it is real, and I hope they realize that it is real when the president contracts the virus, Dermody said. Rep. Dan Moul, a Republican from rural southern Pennsylvania, said it has nothing to do with Trump. He almost always wears a mask when he enters a business, Moul said, he but doesnt on the House floor because hes around friends. When its my turn to get it, Im going to get it, whether Im wearing a mask or not, Moul said. The virus is a leading issue in the campaign for governor in Missouri, where Republican Gov. Mike Parson, a staunch Trump supporter, is recovering after testing positive. Rising case counts have made Missouri 15th in the nation in new cases per capita, according to the COVID Tracking Project. Parson has taken a more hands-off approach to addressing the virus, leaving decisions on mask requirements, school shutdowns and other restrictions to local officials, and his representatives gave no hint that he would change. He will continue to follow safety protocols to protect his health and those around him, and encourage mask-wearing and social distancing, a spokesperson said Friday. His Democratic challenger, Nicole Galloway, said Parsons and Trumps diagnoses are proof that anyone can get the virus. She pushed Parson to live up to White House guidance on testing, contact tracing and a statewide mask mandate. This is the best way to put our state on the path to economic recovery, Galloway said. Parson isnt the only Republican governor who said their decisions would not be affected by Trumps diagnosis. A spokesman for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has been aggressively lifting restrictions on restaurants and other businesses despite concerns of a resurgence, said the governor isnt going to change the states reopening plans just because the president contracted the virus. Illegal immigrants just released from detention through "catch and release" immigration policy stand at a bus station before being taken to the Catholic Charities relief center in McAllen, Texas, on April 11, 2018. (Loren Elliott/Reuters) Appeals Court Upholds Ban on Holding Unaccompanied Minors in Hotel Detention A federal appeals court denied a Trump administration request to hold a lower courts ruling that ordered it to end its practice of detaining unaccompanied minors seeking asylum in hotels while arrangements are made to expel them from the country. The practice was implemented as part of an immigration policy designed to curb the spread of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus pandemic when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an order in March closing the U.S. border with Mexico and Canada. The three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals on Oct. 4 rejected the request to urgently stay the district court decision, pending appeal, that found children who were brought over or crossed over illegally into the United States during the pandemic are entitled to protections under the 1997 Flores settlement agreement. The Flores agreement is a court ruling that states minors who cross the border illegally cant be detained for more than 20 days and requires children in the custody of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to be housed in facilities that meet certain standards as well as be given certain standards of care. The panel stated (pdf) that the federal government has failed to show that it would suffer irreparable harm if it were to comply with the lower courts order to stop detaining children and families in hotels while the appeal is pending. The March order called for certain foreigners to be removed from the United States and returned to their country of origin, or another practicable location, as quickly as possible. The order has been extended twice and the second time it was extended indefinitely. As part of this policy, the DHS has been using hotels to temporarily house accompanied and unaccompanied children for multiple days before they are removed from the country. Citing an independent monitor, the district court stated that 660 minors between the ages of 10 and 17 were being housed in 25 hotels in three states, where 577 of them were unaccompanied. An official from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement told CBS News that it hasnt held children asylum seekers in hotels since Sept. 11. However, children asylum seekers and families who cross the U.S.-Mexico border illegally are still subject to expulsion under the March order, a Customs and Border Protection spokesperson told the news outlet. In her ruling in early September, U.S. District Court Judge Dolly Gee in Los Angeles found that this practice breaches the DHSs duty under the Flores agreement because children are meant to be placed in licensed programs after arrest, if no qualified adult or entity can take custody. Moreover, she ruled that the practice of hoteling lacks oversight and raises concerns about the standard of care for young children. She also found that children and families have trouble in accessing a lawyer and that legal services providers have claimed that they face unusual difficulty locating children who are held in hotel detention. Although Gee acknowledged that the Trump administration may make changes to the immigration system to protect public safety against the pandemic, it is still no excuse for DHS to skirt the fundamental humanitarian protections that the Flores Agreement guarantees for minors in their custody, especially when there is no persuasive evidence that hoteling is safer than licensed facilities. While the legality of the Closure Order generally is beyond the scope of this Courts jurisdiction, the Court is obligated to ensure that minors in DHS custody are not left in a legal no-mans land, where no enforceable standards apply, Gee wrote. She ordered the department to cease placing children in hotel detention by Sept. 15, with the exception of one- to two-night stays while in transit or prior to flights. She also ordered DHS to transfer all minorsboth accompanied and unaccompaniedcurrently held in hotels to licensed facilities. Leecia Welch, the senior director of Child Welfare at National Center for Youth Law, who brought the motion, said in a statement on Twitter in reaction to the appeals court ruling, It is a sad fact that court involvement was needed once again to ensure the basic safety of children. The Justice Department and the Department of Homeland Security didnt immediately respond to The Epoch Times request for comment. The Thunder Bay Museum will be hosting a travelling quilt exhibit starting Jan. 31. The exhibit, titled Threads of Hope, explores hope, longing and desire for the future of the world. Fibre Art Network artists express world issues through their work in the exhibit. Each artwork is connected A man who was wounded Sunday night in a shooting in Roslindale was later found in Mattapan, Boston police said. The person was shot on Rowe Street in Roslindale around 8:21 p.m., said Boston Police Officer Kim Tavares, a spokesperson for the department. The victim was later found near 1350 Blue Hill Ave. in Mattapan, Tavares told MassLive. The call came in for shots fired at Rowe street. Nobody was there, she said. They then found the victim on Blue Hill Avenue. The man was taken to a nearby hospital with injuries that were not considered to be life-threatening, according to Tavares. The shooting remains under investigation. A series of surveys and reports have exposed the disastrous effects on teachers and children of school reopenings. Figures from the latest Public Health Englands COVID-19 epidemiology surveillance summary show that educational settings now account for 45 percent of all positive cases in the UK. This is the highest level of infection of any sector of society. The report is based on data from week 39 (between 21 August and 27 September 2020) and, for some indicators, daily data up to 29 September 2020. Around 30,000 school pupils are infected according to the Office for National Statistics, with its October 2 statement reporting clear evidence in recent weeks of an increase in the number of people testing positive for COVID-19, with the current rates highest in teenagers and young adults. The fastest increases among school ages are the 7 to 11 year groups and the 12 to 24 year group. Year seven pupils are directed to socially distance as they arrive for their first day at Kingsdale Foundation School in London, Thursday, Sept. 3, 2020. AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth) According to the ToryFibs twitter groupwhich collates a daily tally of school infections based on reports from school websites, local news reports and National Health Service updatesas of Saturday 2,576 schools across the UK have been infected with COVID-19. Nearly 2,000 are in England (1,909), 337 are in Wales, 203 in Scotland, and 127 in Northern Ireland. ToryFibs reported 595 live coronavirus clusters within educational settings throughout England, including over 100 in the capital. London councils, of all political stripes, have been concealing accurate figures, resulting in a massive underreporting on school infections in the capital. The Boycott Unsafe Schools web site has produced a valuable map showing the evidence of infections at over 2,000 schools from every corner of the country. According to the Manchester Evening News, 369 schools across Greater Manchesterthe third largest regional authority in Englandhave confirmed they have pupils and staff self-isolating. It only reported those cases it knew of. The true figure is expected to be much higher. This horrific situation is the direct result of the governments forced reopening of unsafe schools, to reopen the wider economy amid a deadly pandemic. According to a survey carried out the week ending September 25 among UK teaching staff by the TES (Times Educational Supplement), almost half said they felt drained and exhausted just weeks into the new term. Around one third of the 7,582 school staff surveyed, including teachers, teaching assistants, and senior leaders, said they were just about coping and 15 percent described themselves as physically and mentally on the brink. One school leader told TES, Were in a climate where everyone is on edge and stressed out and worried the whole time. If Im still in this job by Christmas, Im going to be amazed. Ive had enough. The Boycott Unsafe Schools map showing the evidence of infections at over 2,000 schools from every corner of the country Sinead Mc Brearty, CEO of charity Education Support, said its own findings based on a YouGov survey, published September 17, revealed that half of teachers suffered a decline in their mental health during the initial stage of the pandemic. The findings extrapolated from research carried out with over 3,000 education professionals in schools and colleges. Commenting on the failure of the government to develop a functioning test and trace system, Mc Brearty said, Schools are left to pick up the pieces whilst staff and students are forced to self-isolate and wait for a golden ticket to a test appointment... If we are reckless with the health of the education workforce, we cannot expect children and young people to have the support they need to get through this difficult year. On September 14, at a meeting with the Department for Education, the Chartered College of Teaching warned that teachers and school leaders were already exhausted just two weeks into the new term. Cited were concerns around testing for COVID-19, staff and pupil absences, and uncertainty regarding next years exams. Nine out of ten teachers of GCSE and A levels say their students have fallen behind, with many demanding a postponement of exams. In the last week of September, the NASUWT teaching union conducted a survey of its 6,445 members which found that 86 percent felt their workload had greatly increased with an expectation that they develop remote learning in addition to their current duties. Over half said they now go without regular breaks. Fully 83 percent believed that the government was not providing the necessary support during the pandemic. On October 3, a survey by the National Education Union (NEU) found that 84 percent of respondents did not trust the government to keep schools safe, to protect workers, to support vulnerable or disadvantaged children, or to ensure adequate safety and resources around exams and assessment. The trade unions are reporting the results of their own treachery. In alliance with the Labour Party, they have played the critical role in enforcing the Tory governments school reopening drive. In recent days the government has announced onerous new conditions on the allocation of already rationed laptops for school pupils. If a school is operating a rota system to limit school attendance or has fewer than 15 pupils self-isolating, it cannot now access laptops or other devices from the government. The government is also threatening to use powers under the draconian Coronavirus Act against schools struggling to provide adequate levels of remote learning! These surveys and studies disprove the governments dangerous and deceptive propaganda campaign that insisted schools were COVID secure. While life inside schools becomes ever more unbearable due to increasing numbers of pupils and staff falling ill or self-isolating, the governments herd immunity policy means the virus is being allowed to spread unchecked throughout society. The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) is opposed to the reopening of unsafe schools and puts forward a programme with which educators can fight back against the threat to their lives and that of pupils. The SEPs August 8 statement, For a general strike against the reopening of schools, called on all education workers to mobilise against the Johnson governments plan to open schools in September despite the threat to health and lives. This homicidal policy can only be challenged through an independent mobilisation, uniting workers in education with all sections of the working class in a general strike movement against the ruling elite. The statement explained that the ruling elites crocodile tears are shed in order to transform schools into holding pens so that their parents can be driven back to work in unsafe conditions. The price will also be paid by education workers and children, whose surroundings will be just as dangerous as they are on public transport, and in factories, offices and shops. There will be no social distancing and no personal protective equipment (PPE), with primary school classes of 30, bubbles of 240 in secondary schools, no school closures if there is an outbreak, and fines for parents who do not comply. In issuing a call for a general strike, the SEP demanded: Keep all schools closed until the virus is eradicated! With the virus spiralling out of control across the UK, in-person instruction cannot be done safely. Full funding for public education and online instruction! High-speed internet access, food distribution, mental health care, special education supports, and all other resources needed to provide the best quality remote learning, must be guaranteed to every student and education worker. The SEP, in line with the sections of the International Committee of the Fourth International, has established an educators rank-and-file safety committee in opposition to the murderous policy of the ruling class. We call on educators to join the rank and file committee and attend our online meetings. NEWS PROVIDED BY Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights Oct. 5, 2020 NEW YORK, Oct. 5, 2020 /Standard Newswire/ -- Catholic League president Bill Donohue (photo) comments on efforts by the Trump and Biden campaigns to court the Catholic vote: The Catholic vote is the religious swing vote and both the Trump and Biden camps know it. This explains their outreach via Catholics for Trump and Catholics for Biden. More important than these campaign efforts is how the two candidates approach issues that are central to Catholicism. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has declared abortion to be the "preeminent" issue for Catholics. On this score, Trump's pro-life position is consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church. Biden, who was once pro-life, is now a champion of abortion-on-demand through term, and is therefore wildly out-of-step with his religion's position. Trump and the Catholic Church agree that marriage should be the preserve of one man and one woman. Biden rejects the Church's teaching and supports gay marriages. School choice is favored by the Catholic Church, and Trump is a rabid supporter of it. Biden is opposed to all school choice initiatives. Religious liberty has emerged as one of the most important issues of our day, affecting domestic and foreign policy alike. The Catholic League has tallied nearly 50 instances where Trump has embraced or advanced religious liberty in the past three-and-a-half years. We examined Biden's record over 47 years of public service and could find almost no instances of his support for religious liberty. He did vote for the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) in 1993, but his recent endorsement of the "Equality Act" and "Do No Harm" effectively vitiates his position: both would seriously undercut, if not neuter altogether, RFRA. Most glaringly, Biden's support for the Health and Human Services mandate that would force the Little Sisters of the Poor to pay for abortion-inducing drugs in their healthcare plan has led him to be denounced by Catholic leaders, lay and clergy alike. The official Party Platforms offer a revealing look at the way the Trump and Biden campaigns address religious liberty. There are nine references to religious liberty in the Republican Party Platform, all of which are positive statements. The Democratic Party Platform cites religious liberty six times, four times positively and two times negatively. Both Trump and Biden have been praised and criticized by some bishops. This matters less to Trump as he is not Catholic. But it matters greatly to Biden. Cardinal Raymond Burke has said that Biden should not be given Holy Communion because of his pro-abortion record. Some priests have, in fact, denied him the Eucharist, or have warned him not to come to Communion, because of his stance. Bishop Richard Stika called out Biden over the summer. "Don't understand how Mr. Biden can claim to be a good and faithful Catholic as he denies so much of Church teaching especially on the absolute child abuse and human rights violations of the most innocent, the not yet born." Bishop Thomas Tobin took an oblique shot at Biden when he observed that there was no Catholic on the Democratic ticket this time. Some bishops have made more veiled-like comments. Bishop Joseph Strickland has spoken out strongly about the election and how the "Sanctity of Life, true marriage between a man & a woman, supporting the nuclear family and sexual morality based on biblical truth" must be paramount. Bishop Thomas Daly has advised those who "obstinately persevere in their public support for abortion, should not receive Communion without first being reconciled to Christ and the Church." What got Biden into deep trouble with the bishops was his decision not only to support gay marriage, but his willingness to officiate at a wedding between two men. Three leaders of the bishops' conference, Archbishop Joseph Kurtz, Bishop Richard Malone, and Archbishop Thomas Wenski issued a statement that was obviously aimed at Biden. They criticized him for being "a counter witness, instead of a faithful one founded in the truth." The most recent bishop to call into question Biden's standing in the Catholic Church--without mentioning him specifically--is Archbishop Samuel Aquila. "It is not possible to be a Catholic in good standing and support abortion or assisted suicide, to promote unnatural sexuality, or to seek to push people of faith out of the public square." Finally, there is the issue of anti-Catholicism. The Trump administration has never been tagged with anti-Catholicism, but the Biden campaign certainly has. In fact, his running mate, Kamala Harris, made a stunning contribution to this ancient strain of bigotry when she badgered a man being considered for a seat on a federal district court in Nebraska simply because he belonged to the Knights of Columbus. Now we have Humanists for Biden, an off-shoot of Secular Democrats of America, also of recent vintage. The parent group is off to a fast start bashing Catholics. Biden also has in his employ Nikitha Rai, a data expert who believes that Catholics like Amy Coney Barrett, who espouse traditional moral values, should not be allowed to serve on the Supreme Court. It is evident that Biden's policies on key issues are problematic from a Catholic perspective. Add to this his strained relationship with many priests and bishops, as well as the support he receives from anti-Catholics, and the difference between Trump and him is considerable. By Express News Service BENGALURU: DONT fall prey to tears shed by JDS leaders during election time, warned Congress Legislature Party leader and opposition leader in the Assembly Siddaramaiah, here on Sunday. Siddaramaiah, who was once with the JDS, told party wo rke r s, The JDS leaders have been using tears right from the time of Deve Gowda (who was the CM in 1994). Speaking at a meeting of party leaders at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee office, Siddaramaiah referred to a recent incident, where JDS leader H D Kumaraswamy is said to have shed tears ago. Siddaramaiahs caution assumes significance with two Assembly by-polls round the corner. Especially at Sira, the contest has been traditionally between Congress and JDS. Both the parties are under pressure to perform well in these by-elections as the JDS drew a blank and the Congress won only two of the 15 Assembly by-polls last time. constituencies that. It was also humiliating for the Congress as 12 of those seats were held by its party members. Siddaramaiah told the party workers that the Congress has to defeat the JDS and BJP, and win both the byelections. The JDS does not have the strength to form a government on its own, and has to depend on other parties to come to power. Speaking about the JDS with which the Congress had shared an alliance for 14 months, Siddaramaiah alleged that there was an internal understanding between the JDS and BJP, and warned party workers to be cautious. Political observers, who dissected the former chief ministers statement, said that it seemed conclusive, and dashes hopes of any plan of the opposition parties Congress and JDS to fight the bypolls jointly. MPPs have voted unanimously in favour an opposition Liberal motion designed to discourage Premier Doug Fords governing Progressive Conservatives from calling an early election. Tories, New Democrats, Liberals and Green Leader Mike Schreiner supported MPP Mitzie Hunters motion that it would be reckless and unnecessary to hit the hustings before the scheduled 2022 vote by a 45-0 margin. The government needs to stop taking its eye off the ball and get back to work, Hunter (Scarborough-Guildwood) said Monday. They were busy politicking. We have rumours of an early election, fuelled by reports of PC incumbents being acclaimed to run in the next election, and every riding would have nominated candidates by March, she said. While Ford has insisted he does not want a snap election, his party stepped up fundraising and fast-tracked nominations last month, acclaiming all 72 Tory MPPs as candidates. We want to get our folks prepared for the election and have said before we arent going to be calling it in the spring. Well be calling it the regular time, the premier said on Sept 28. Some PC strategists want to exploit the partys current resurgence in polls and hold an election before the pandemic-induced recession gets worse. But the premier, who was elected in 2018, has stressed there would be no vote before June 2, 2022. Government house leader Paul Calandra said the Conservatives enthusiastically backed Hunters motion, claiming it was a vote of confidence in how Fords administration has handled COVID-19. I have never seen an opposition party bring forward a motion of support, a motion of confidence in the government, begging all colleagues to join with the member for Scarborough-Guildwood, join with the leader of the Liberal Party, in expressing confidence in the actions of this premier and what he has accomplished over these very many months, said Calandra. But Liberal Leader Steven Del Duca said only Doug Ford and his friends could twist the logic on this one. Frankly, Doug Ford got caught. He got caught preparing for an early election call in the midst of the second wave of the pandemic that he is not ready for and his government is not ready for, said Del Duca. The fact is the people of Ontario want them to do one thing and one thing only and thats to manage through the second wave. NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said MPPs spent way too much time debating the motion and talking about the possibility of a snap pandemic election. Nobody cares about an election right now, said Horwath, scolding the Tories for their antics and the Liberals for putting a potential campaign on the front-burner. People want this government to step up to the plate ... and start investing in the kinds of initiatives that will save lives and protect people from COVID-19, she said. The Green leader, for his part, said he didnt think anyone in Ontario wants an election campaign right now. We should all be focused on combating the second wave and then looking at what economic recovery is going to look like, said Schreiner. The government is engaged in a lot of spin on this one, he said of Calandras view on the motion. A Campaign Research survey for the Star found 51 per cent of respondents believed all the parties and leaders should be focusing on the pandemic and stop wasting time on this. At the same time, 16 per cent felt the opposition parties were stoking the chatter that Ford might call an early election to cash in his current popularity in the polls in order to attack him. Similarly, 13 per cent said they did not believe the premier when he said the next vote would be June 2, 2022. Campaign Research polled 1,017 people across Ontario last Wednesday through Friday using Maru Blues online panel. It is an opt-in poll, but for comparison purposes, a random sample of this size would have a margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points, 19 times out of 20. Robert Benzie is the Stars Queens Park bureau chief and a reporter covering Ontario politics. Follow him on Twitter: @robertbenzie Read more about: HOBOKEN, NJ Hoboken-based woodworker Anton David came across an interesting sight last week while preparing a corner lot on the city's main street for an eyeglass store a wooden bowling alley underground, which he estimated to be about a century old. David's company, Avid Handyman, is serving as the general contractor at Fourth and Washington streets, getting ready for Wise Vision to move across the street to that site. David was pleased with the discovery, since he also owns Hoboken Custom Craft and works with and repurposes old wood. "We like to preserve the history of Hoboken whenever possible," Anton said last week. "The City Hall sign [a 6-foot high 'H'] was made of reclaimed wood from around the area." This photo was taken by Robert Foster, president of the Hoboken Historical Museum, who researched the lanes over the weekend. David was successful earlier this year with his "Hoboken Strong" campaign to raise money for the Front Line Appreciation Group of Hoboken, which fed essential workers during the coronavirus crisis. Custom Craft sold uniquely painted wooden Hoboken "H's" for $65, which businesses and residents proudly displayed. Who built the lanes? Blame the Democrats or Republicans Among the three underground bowling lanes, David found pins, balls, and a rusty can of Schaefer Beer, a company that dates back to 1842. (Prohibition ran from January of 1920 through December of 1933, but it's hard to tell just when the can was quaffed.) After the Hoboken Historical Museum was informed about the find, they conducted research this past weekend. Get free alerts when important news breaks in your town, and/or a free local newsletter each morning. Sign up for Patch breaking news alerts and daily newsletters here. "Looks like the three bowling lanes date back to the 1920s til 1940s," revealed Hoboken Historical Museum President Robert Foster on Monday. "In the 1920s, the building was home to the Hoboken Republican Club and then [in] the 1930s became the Hoboken Democratic Club. Both organizations applied for bowling lane permits." Story continues He added, "The lanes are in the process of being removed and the maple wood from the lanes is being repurposed to make tables. The three bowling lanes go back to the days when pins were set by hand, by young kids called pin boys." (Pins boys were replaced by an electronic apparatus starting in 1962.) There's good news for Hoboken: "The owners will be donating some of the pins and ball to the museum for a future exhibit on the history of Washington Street businesses." One person who may not be visiting that site any time soon is TV "Cake Boss" Buddy Valastro, even though Carlo's Bakery is three blocks down. He's recovering from being seriously injured by the mechanism in his home bowling alley last month. Hoboken business news As for David, follow his progress and creations on Instagram here. Send tips and releases about new or interesting Hoboken businesses to Hoboken Patch here. Learn more about the Hoboken Historical Museum here. Got news? Email Caren.Lissner@patch.com. Want to be the first to get news alerts with breaking stories in your town, or to get a free local newsletter each morning? Sign up for Patch breaking news alerts or daily newsletters. This article originally appeared on the Hoboken Patch President Donald Trump's lawyer and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani speaks to reporters outside the White House on July 1, 2020. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) No Reason for Next Debate to Be Delayed: Trump Lawyer Biden says he'll listen to experts on debate health precautions Theres no reason to push back the next presidential debate, President Donald Trumps attorney Rudy Giuliani said Oct. 5, while Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden said he would defer to experts. I think its very possible. Again, all of it assumes he keeps making progress the way he does, Giuliani said during an appearance on ABCs Good Morning America. I assume hes going to be in condition by then to do it. Cant see any reason why he wouldnt. And theres no reason to delay them. Theres only two more left, theyre enormously valuable to the American people. I think hell make every effort to make it. Im certain he will. Trump and Biden are scheduled to face off for the second time in a debate in Miami, Florida, on Oct. 15. The rivals went head-to-head in Cleveland, Ohio, on Sept. 29. Two days after the debate, Trump tested positive for COVID-19. The president entered Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland for treatment. On Oct. 5, Trump announced that he would be leaving the hospital that evening, feeling better than [he] did 20 years ago, while Biden traveled to Florida to campaign. At the airport in Wilmington, Delaware, Biden told reporters who asked what precautions he supports for the next debate that he would listen to the science. If scientists say that its safe then I think thats fine. Ill do whatever the experts say is appropriate for me to do, he said. Im not an expert on it, but I think we should be very cautious. Biden remained at home for months starting in March to try to avoid contracting the virus. He resumed in-person campaigning in August. Trump started holding rallies in June after a break. Trumps campaign that month started sending volunteers door-to-door, a practice Bidens campaign just began in recent days. Biden has tested negative for COVID-19 twice since Trumps diagnosis. Vice President Mike Pence and Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Bidens running mate, have also tested negative. President Donald Trump, right, and Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden participate in the first presidential debate at the Health Education Campus of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, on Sept. 29, 2020. (Olivier Douliery/Pool/Getty Images) Pence and Harris are set to square off in their first and only debate, in Salt Lake City on Oct. 7. Symone Sanders, a Biden campaign official, said Oct. 4 that the next presidential debate should go forward as scheduled. Its a town hall [format] and, as you know, Vice President Biden loves a good town hall. And we are hoping President Trump can participate. Were hoping that hes medically able to participate, and that is up to his doctors to clear him. But Joe Biden will be at that debate, she said. The Commission on Presidential Debates, billed as a nonpartisan group, oversees debate scheduling and details, including moderators. Following the first presidential debate, the commission is considering making changes to the debate format, something opposed by Trumps campaign. I would not put in new rules in the middle of a campaign. I would, through us or if they want to do it directly, just remind both candidates stay within your two minutes, dont interrupt, Giuliani said. Trump regularly interrupted Biden during the debate. Giuliani said it was a strategic move, pointing to a debate between then-Vice President Biden and Republican vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan in 2012. He just was all over him. I think we told the president, We dont want the story coming out that he dominated you. And the president sure didnt let that story come out, Giuliani said. The arbitration of any court is legally binding and the government) can approach the Singapore high court. While India can challenge at the Singapore High Court the order given by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) at the Hague in favour of Vodafone, experts have varied views whether New Delhi should exercise that option in the context of its impact on investor sentiment. Anuradha Dutt, founder and senior partner at DMD Advocates, who represented Vodafone in arbitration, said: The arbitration of any court is legally binding but can be challenged ... they (the government) can approach the Singapore high court. Anjali Anchayil, senior associate at J Sagar Associates, does not think investors will be spooked by the challenge any more than what the retrospective amendments to the Income Tax Act have done. The retrospective amendments were something that hurt investor sentiment. I dont think if the government tries to challenge it, investors would be more scared, she said. Pradeep Kumar Jain, managing partner at Singhania & Co, LLP, said generally an award given by the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) was treated as final and no scope of appeal was given to parties. The only ray of hope for the government is the judgement given by the Supreme Court of Singapore in the matter of Swissbourgh Diamond Mines Ltd and others vs the Kingdom of Lesotho, he said. In this matter, the Supreme Court of Singapore had set aside the PCA award on the grounds that the PCA Tribunal lacked the jurisdiction to hear the investment treaty claim, he said. The government can take the same plea if it had challenged the jurisdiction of the PCA. "Further, it can also appeal (for setting aside the award) under the International Arbitration Act of Singapore, but I honestly feel that it would be a very tough task to get success, he said. Abhishek Rastogi, partner at Khaitan & Co, said India would have to analyse whether the relevant clauses in the India-Netherlands Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) were legally open-ended or the foreign investor was required to adhere to the tax provisions. The verdict given by the arbitration panel says Vodafone was entitled to fair and equitable treatment in respect of its investment in mobile telecommunication in India in line with the bilateral investment treaty (BIT). Vodafone challenged the tax demand at international arbitration under the India-Netherlands BIT in 2014. Later, India changed the model BIT by taking tax disputes out of it, which has found few takers. Sukham S Ahluwalia, advocate, Supreme Court, however, said at this stage, India needed to encourage investors. A rational view should be taken, irrespective of the options available for assailing the international award, he said. He said this was high time India was part of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). The Centre is the worlds leading institution devoted to international investment dispute settlement. For enforcing the award, Vodafone will have to come to India, probably before the Delhi high court, said Anchayil. Jain said after the decision of the Singapore high court (in case the government chose to challenge the PCA order), the battlefield would shift to India, where this award needs to be recognised and enforced. Again, the government can challenge its enforcement under the Indian Arbitration Act, but it will send wrong signals to international investors and jurists, he said. Photograph: Reuters A KT employee explains the newly launched KT Simple 5G data plan to a customer at a KT authorized dealer store in Seoul, Monday. / Courtesy of KT By Kim Hyun-bin KT became the first telecom company in the country, Monday, to launch mid-tier fifth generation (5G) rate plans for customers who sign up in stores as well as online, with SKT looking to launch its own affordable plan in the near future. KT launched two mid-tier rate plans one in the 40,000 won range and one in the 60,000 won range. This comes after local telecom companies have been heavily criticized for expensive rates and lack of nationwide 5G connectivity. The move comes as 5G network issues are set to become a focus in the upcoming government inspections as the 5G rate plans are viewed as heavily overpriced, with some exceeding 130,000 won a month despite lax 5G coverage. KT announced that it will launch two mid-tier rate plans dubbed 5G Save and 5G Simple. The 5G Save plan costs 45,000 won a month for people who do not use their data service very often. It provides 5GB of data monthly and after the data is used up users will be switched to an unlimited 400-kilobyte data service. The 5G Simple is an unlimited 5G data plan with a price tag of 69,000 won a month that provides 110GB of data a month, 10 GB of which can be shared with other smart devices including tablet PCs. "Through the launching of mid-tier 5G rate plans we plan to provide diverse options for customers," Yi Seong-hwan, head of 5G/GiGA at KT, said Monday, "KT will work so it can offer higher-quality products and services to our customers." SKT is also planning to launch mid-tier 5G rates. "We are preparing to newly launch 5G rates for customers, but we cannot give specific launch dates at this time. We will make an announcement once the specific details have been ironed out," an official at SKT said. LG Uplus launched its 5G Direct plan in March that provides unlimited data and calls for 65,000 won a month, but it is only for customers who register online through their official website. A cross-examination of Rajshri Productions' 2006 film Vivah and Netflix's Indian Matchmaking show us how both pieces try hard to propel the practice of an arrange marriage; something we millennials recognise as obsolete. In our column, Through Her Looking Glass, we try to decode iconic films from a female perspective. The series will attempt to understand the agency each female character holds in the film's narrative (mostly, from a contemporary standpoint) and whether the purported meaning of the film alters under such a viewing. ** I was 9 years old when Sooraj Barjatiyas Vivah made its way to the silver screen. The idea of a young couple relishing their courtship period caught in the first throes of innocent, budding love, their geographical distance notwithstanding, would make me all giddy. Let me explain myself, I was 9; my film choices were limited to likes of Ta Ra Rum Pum, Taare Zameen Par. Years later at the age of 22, on a drunken night when I re-watched Vivah with my friends, it was nothing short of a giggle fest. While the decision to revisit the film that night was a joke, I soon realised that despite being built on the Barjatiya ethos of sanskaar, the film had its own flaws. Vivah was extremely outdated and regressive even for the year (2006) it was set in. Set against the plot of an arranged marriage, the film carries within sub-plots of colourism, questionable views on gender equality and consent. However, later this year, we were subjected to yet another chaotic mess with Netflix's Indian Matchmaking, a reality show's exploration of arranged marriage system. Be it Vivah or Indian Matchmaking, both took me back to the 70s, an era better left in the past. Both pieces try hard to propel the practice of an arranged marriage, something we millennials recognise as obsolete. I thought we had outgrown of the Barjatiya film template a long back. But the fact that Vivah still plays on Indian cable TV, and quite often at that, makes me nervous about its massive reach and impression on a new generation. *** Following its premiere in July, Netflixs Indian Matchmaking dominated conversations, twitter threads and op-eds for several weeks. Created in the US, the series follows a Mumbai-based matchmaker Sima Taparia, who flies between India and the US, facilitating the tradition of an arranged marriage by finding suitable matches for her clients. Much like Sima Auntie, Barjatiyas Vivah opens to a Bhagat Uncle (Manoj Joshi) who cheerfully storms into Krishnakants (Alok Nath) house with an ucche ghar ka rishta for his niece, Poonam (Amrita Rao). She is everything that an Indian heterosexual male would want in his partner (so we are told, within the traditional constraints of Barjatya Universe ) religious, righteous, fair, servile, and educated (albeit negligible). Bhagat cant stop emphasising on how Poonam has come of age because their samaj (community) is abuzz with talks of her beauty. The wealthy Delhi-based industrialist Harishchandra (Anupam Kher), who is keen on finding a wife for his second son Prem (Shahid Kapoor), hears of Poonam through their mutual acquaintance, Bhagat. A meeting is set at Krishnakants home in Madhupur. Introductions are done, chai is served, sweet boxes are exchanged, and the prospective couple is sent to terrace on the behest of getting to know each other better. While Prem opens up on his past, his crushes, his schooling, Poonam hardly utters a word. Only nods and whispers about her favourite religious books. Perhaps drawn to her innocence and simplicity, Prem agrees to the marriage. Everyone is happy, expect Poonams aunt, Rama (Seema Biswas), who is shown to be jealous of Poonams beauty and worried about running out on good marriage prospects for her own dark-skinned daughter, Chotti. Though arranged marriages may seem like a relic of a bygone age, they are still surprisingly popular around the world. The success of a regressive film like Vivah in 2006, and the uber-success of a show like Indian Matchmaking in 2020 is further proof of Indians' fixation with matchmaking and arranged marriages. Vivahs treatment of the entire shenanigan is saccharine sweet. It is difficult to relate to the squeaky-clean characters and overlook how the one-dimensional protagonists Poonam and Prem are both virtuous and morally decent. On the other hand, Indian Matchmaking dives deep into the arranged marriage system, holds a mirror to the archaic values and presents them on a glossy platter. Parental pressure, issues of compatibility, love vs. career, ageing and past relationships are a few recurring themes. Terms like adjustment, compatibility, good nature, compromise and traditional are thrown around in abundance. One particular desire that repeatedly comes up is for a fair skin match. This is an idea of beauty that can be traced back to caste politics and a deeply archaic society where caste oppression is a daily reality. Though Vivah necessarily doesn't endorse the beauty standards of lighter skin, it never really subverts from it either. Most of the well-to-do, attractive people that we're supposed to sympathise and identify within Vivah (and in virtually every other Bollywood film) have lighter skin. The actress playing the supposedly plain Chhoti, Amrita Prakash, has been blackfaced in most scenes to get across the colourism point. But while her mother obsesses over Chhoti's lookswe see Rama applying powders, creams, and other treatments in a vain effort to make Chhoti's skin lighterChhoti herself isn't bothered in the least by her looks or lack of traditional femininity. She is smart and funnywhen sent to serve food to the family's guests, mocks her mother's admonitions to "walk properly" with an exaggerated hip-swayand seems perfectly comfortable in her own skin, despite her mother's fixation on lightening it. *** In Vivah, when a reluctant Prem expresses that it may be too soon for him to settle down, his father recounts him the tales of his own marital bliss. Harishchandra throws in a variety of words picked out straight from Sima Aunties glossary acceptance, adapt, trust. Yet to fall for this trope, when Prem brings up his career, Harishchandra takes a philosophical route. Prem, every man needs an inspiration to achieve something in life. She will double your happiness and minus your sorrows, he advises Prem as if personifying a happiness robot rather than a woman. Poonam is docile to a fault; she is not only extremely conservative but hardly embodies any agency. She sobs, she smiles, she scampers, she serves Jal, she prays she does anything anyone wants her to do, making you wish someone shook her hard and asked to be less subtle. What Harishchandra and most men often forget that women are thinking living individuals, with their own anxieties, fears and sorrows, and it is rather cruel of men to treat them as a rehabilitation centre for their own pleasure. When Akshay Jakhete was introduced on Indian Matchmaking, the self-proclaimed shy boy whod never dated before seemed like he was getting forced into a marriage. In walked Mumbais top matchmaker Sima Auntie to save the day and Akshays mom entrusted her with the responsibility to find him a flexible girl. The Mumbai boy seemed to be confused about what he was looking for but when asked what his ideal girl would be like, he could only answer, someone like my mom. Although he finally settled for a girl, he soon broke up with her, stating that he didnt feel a connection. However, the funnest member of the show, who deserves a spinoff of her own, is Aparna Shewakramani. Shes the quintessential career woman who doesnt have the time, energy, or inclination to focus on her love life. At one point, Sima Auntie implies that Aparna will never be able to find a match if she cant compromise her standards and values. But the fact of the matter is, South Asian women are always criticised the moment they disagree with the majority of Indian culture and tradition. They are branded "difficult" or other such monikers because they don't conform. Though both Vivah and Indian Matchmaking conclude with an idyllic montage of happy couples, it brings out the worst of colourism and classism that Indians have to offer. Nevertheless, as I continue to examine adulthood, I find that arranged marriage is a family-sanctioned form of social controlwhich sometimes diminishes an individuals personal choice in favour of a community's long-standing views. A supporter of the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) waves a party flag at Democracy Park in Phnom Penh, in a file photo. Police in Cambodias capital Phnom Penh have arrested the 15-year-old autistic son of a jailed member of the countrys banned opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) after he entered the partys abandoned headquarters to collect flags, according to his mother. The son of former senior CNRP member Kak Komphear was arrested by local police after he entered the partys old headquarters in Phnom Penhs Chak Angre Leu district on Sunday by climbing over a fence, his mother Prum Chantha told RFAs Khmer Service, citing a statement by the authorities. The police, who have yet to charge the boy, photographed him standing against a wall in handcuffs and the image has since been posted to social media and shared widely, she said. Prum Chantha told RFA that authorities had unjustly targeted her family and urged them to release her son. He is a minorjust have him educated if he does something wrong, she said. Why did the police have to handcuff and detain him? Maybe he likes flags and that was why he entered the building. RFA was unable to contact the Phnom Penh Municipal Police for comment on the case Monday. Ny Sokha of local rights group Adhoc, told RFA that collecting flags is not illegal and suggested that the arrest of a teenaged autistic boy shows authorities are paranoid about the opposition. The authorities are too worried, and they appear to be biased toward [the ruling] political party, he said. We can see that they dont like opposition party elements. Koul Panha, an advisor for the Committee for Free and Fair Elections in Cambodia (COMFREL) told RFA it was inappropriate and indecent to arrest the boy and also urged the public not to distribute his photo on social media. Giving him an education should be enough if the authorities believe his action of collecting the flags was wrong, he said. Moreover, he is a minor. Posting and circulating his photo in public is wrong because it can negatively impact his future. Fathers arrest The boys detention comes less than five months after the May 31 arrest of his father, Kak Komphear, who had attempted to flee Phnom Penh for Takeo province after living in hiding for more than a year. He was ordered to pre-trial detention in Prey Sar Prison on charges of plotting and incitement to commit a felony under Articles 453, 494, and 495 of Cambodias penal code, according to his arrest warrant. In a separate case, dating from January last year, Kak Komphear was convicted in absentia for instigating insult and incitement to commit a felony under Articles 28, 494, 495, and 502 of Cambodias penal code and sentenced to 20 months in prison. The charges were based on allegations that he had taken part in an election boycott campaign that the government said was part of a coup by the CNRP. Cambodias Supreme Court dissolved the CNRP in November 2017, two months after leader Kem Sokhas arrest, for its role in opposition leaders alleged scheme. The ban, along with a wider crackdown on NGOs and the independent media, paved the way for Prime Minister Hun Sens ruling Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) to win all 125 seats in parliament in the countrys July 2018 general election. At least 17 CNRP members have been detained in Prey Sar Prison since the start of the coronavirus pandemic on charges of incitement for comments they made deemed critical of Hun Sens leadership. Reported by RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Sok Ry Sum. Written in English by Joshua Lipes. Government Relations Minister Lori Carr announced on September 9, that Saskatchewans portion of the federal Safe Restart Canada Plan for municipal governments, approximately $70.32 million, will begin to be distributed immediately to all compliant Saskatchewan municipalities. As Saskatchewan returns to a new normal, this is another important investment to help municipalities and their residents weather the storm, said Carr. This funding will support efforts to protect health and safety, prepare for potential future waves of COVID-19, and facilitate the safe re-opening of economies. The money will mostly go to municipalities, but some money will be allocated for transit systems. Of the amount, $62.26 million will be granted in general municipal support on a per capita basis, while $8.07 million will be allocated to municipal public transit support for the four cities with transit systems, based on ridership, said Jonathan Tremblay, Director of Communications with the Saskatchewan government. Quickly and efficiently, the amounts will start to be distributed immediately so municipal leaders can funnel dollars to areas of highest local priority. The four cities getting municipal transit support are Saskatoon, Regina, Moose Jaw and Prince Albert. This federal funding was matched by $150 million dollars announced previously from the Government of Saskatchewan in the Municipal Economic Enhancement Program(MEEP). Additionally, this summer, the province fast-tracked a record breaking $278 million in Municipal Revenue Sharing. Annual, no-strings attached funding was paid directly to municipalities to support local priorities and recovery efforts. The ministry will be contacting all municipalities directly with details about their specific allocation. Allocations for surrounding towns Esterhazy $149,254 Fleming $5,011 Kipling $64,068 Moosomin $163,631 Redvers $62, 159 Rocanville $51,481 Wapella $19,447 Wawota $32,392 Whitewood $51,422 Allocations for surrounding Villages Fairlight $2,386 Gerald $8,113 Kennedy $12,885 Kenosee Lake $13,959 Maryfield $20,760 Spy Hill $10,022 Stockholm $20,998 Tantallon $5,429 Allocations for surrounding RMs RM of Antler No. 61 $31,199 RM of Churchbridge No. 211 $36,926 RM of Elcapo No. 154 $29,111 RM of Fertile Belt No. 183 $46,590 RM of Hazelwood No. 94 will $13,720 RM of Kingsley No. 124 $26,486 RM of Langenburg No. 181 $33,227 RM of Martin No. 122 $17,240 RM of Maryfield No. 91 $19,328 RM of Moose Mountain No. 63 $29,350 RM of Moosomin No. 121 $35,971 RM of Rocanville No. 151 $30,245 RM of Saltcoats No. 213 $42,474 RM of Silverwood No. 123 $24,458 RM of Spy Hill No. 152 $19,268 RM of Walpole No. 92 $19,447 RM of Wawken No. 93 $34,062 RM of Willowdale No. 153 $17,837 Mayors happy with new funds Moosomins Mayor, Larry Tomlinson, thinks the money can help with paving some streets. We are going to pave that extra block on Ellice Street, said Tomlinson. Paving might be first, but Tomlinson sees this as money that can be spent anywhere in town. We have got lots of places we can use it, that is for sure, said Tomlinson. Some of it will probably go to help what we are doing at the Rec center. Rocanvilles Mayor, Daryl Fingas, also feels that the money will be best spent on the town streets. We have been trying to catch up with our paving program and our sand sealing on the streets. Money does not go too far when you start doing this, so we have got quite a few streets in town and I know some of them need repaving. It has been many years since the town was paved completely, said Fingas. A chart-topping 91-year-old D-Day veteran who was just 15 when he landed in Normandy has today denied child sex charges. TV viewers were moved when Britain's youngest Normandy veteran Jim Radford, of Stillness Road, Lewisham, London, performed his ballad 'The Shores of Normandy' which reached the top of the charts last year. He'd received a standing ovation when he performed at the Royal Albert Hall to commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day. TV viewers were moved when war veteran Jim Radford, of south London, performed his ballad The Shores of Normandy, at the Royal Albert Hall which reached the top of the charts last year In 1944 he was a 15-year-old 'galley boy' with the Merchant Navy and probably the youngest to take part in the landings. On the morning of June 6, his first deep sea trip took him to Normandy to help build the Mulberry Harbour, allowing the Royal Navy to transport personnel, vehicles and supplies on to the beaches as the liberation began of Western Europe from the Nazis. In October 2015 the singing peace campaigner was appointed a Chevalier of the Legion d'Honneur by the French Republic 'in recognition of his steadfast involvement in the Liberation of France during the Second World War.' But now on a phone link to Caernarfon Crown Court, he has denied seven offences between 1992 and 1998 involving two girls. They allege incitement to commit gross indecency and indecent assault. Judge Nicola Jones granted conditional bail until a trial next year. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Sir Rod Stewart have been among those to laud his song. Sir Rod tweeted : 'If this doesn't pull on ya heart strings, nothing will. 'On The Shores of Normandy' sung by Jim Radford, one of the surviving heroes of WWII. God Bless Him. - Rod xx' HOUSTON -- (Oct. 5, 2020) -- NASA's James Webb Space Telescope is still more than a year from launching, but the Gemini South telescope in Chile has provided astronomers a glimpse of what the orbiting observatory should deliver. Using a wide-field adaptive optics camera that corrects for distortion from Earth's atmosphere, Rice University's Patrick Hartigan and Andrea Isella and Dublin City University's Turlough Downes used the 8.1-meter telescope to capture near-infrared images of the Carina Nebula with the same resolution that's expected of the Webb Telescope. Hartigan, Isella and Downes describe their work in a study published online this week in Astrophysical Journal Letters. Their images, gathered over 10 hours in January 2018 at the international Gemini Observatory, a program of the National Science Foundation's NOIRLab, show part of a molecular cloud about 7,500 light years from Earth. All stars, including Earth's sun, are thought to form within molecular clouds. "The results are stunning," Hartigan said. "We see a wealth of detail never observed before along the edge of the cloud, including a long series of parallel ridges that may be produced by a magnetic field, a remarkable almost perfectly smooth sine wave and fragments at the top that appear to be in the process of being sheared off the cloud by a strong wind." The images show a cloud of dust and gas in the Carina Nebula known as the Western Wall. The cloud's surface is slowly evaporating in the intense glow of radiation from a nearby cluster of massive young stars. The radiation causes hydrogen to glow with near-infrared light, and specially designed filters allowed the astronomers to capture separate images of hydrogen at the cloud's surface and hydrogen that was evaporating. An additional filter captured starlight reflected from dust, and combining the images allowed Hartigan, Isella and Downes to visualize how the cloud and cluster are interacting. Hartigan has previously observed the Western Wall with other NOIRLab telescopes and said it was a prime choice to follow up with Gemini's adaptive optics system. "This region is probably the best example in the sky of an irradiated interface," he said. "The new images of it are so much sharper than anything we've previously seen. They provide the clearest view to date of how massive young stars affect their surroundings and influence star and planet formation." Images of star-forming regions taken from Earth are usually blurred by turbulence in the atmosphere. Placing telescopes in orbit eliminates that problem. And one of the Hubble Space Telescope's most iconic photographs, 1995's "Pillars of Creation," captured the grandeur of dust columns in a star-forming region. But the beauty of the image belied Hubble's weakness for studying molecular clouds. "Hubble operates at optical and ultraviolet wavelengths that are blocked by dust in star-forming regions like these," Hartigan said. Because near-infrared light penetrates the outer layers of dust in molecular clouds, near-infrared cameras like the Gemini South Adaptive Optics Imager can see what lies beneath. Unlike traditional infrared cameras, Gemini South's imager uses "a mirror that changes its shape to correct for shimmering in our atmosphere," Hartigan said. The result: photos with roughly 10 times the resolution of images taken from ground-based telescopes that don't use adaptive optics. But the atmosphere causes more than blur. Water vapor, carbon dioxide and other atmospheric gases absorb some parts of the near-infrared spectrum before it reaches the ground. "Many near-infrared wavelengths will only be visible from a space telescope like the Webb," Hartigan said. "But for near-infrared wavelengths that reach Earth's surface, adaptive optics can produce images as sharp as those acquired from space." The advantages of each technique bode well for the study of star formation, he said. "Structures like the Western Wall are going to be rich hunting grounds for both Webb and ground-based telescopes with adaptive optics like Gemini South," Hartigan said. "Each will pierce the dust shrouds and reveal new information about the birth of stars." ### Hartigan is a professor of physics and astronomy at Rice. Isella is an associate professor of physics and astronomy and of Earth, environmental and planetary sciences at Rice. Downes is a professor of mathematics and astrophysics at Dublin City University. The research was supported by Rice University. Links and resources: The DOI of the Astrophysical Journal Letters paper is: 10.3847/2041-8213/abac08 A copy of the paper is available at: https://doi.org/10.3847/2041-8213/abac08 VIDEO is available at: https://youtu.be/HBHcJM9Tbt4 High-resolution IMAGES are available for download at: https://news-network.rice.edu/news/files/2020/08/0831-CARINA-AOcomparison-lg.jpg CAPTION: Two near-infrared composite images showing a 33 trillion-mile section of the Western Wall, a cloud of gas and dust in a star-forming region of the Carina Nebula. Each image was taken by Rice University astronomer Patrick Hartigan and colleagues from telescopes at the National Science Foundation's NOIRLab observatory in Chile and shows hydrogen molecules at the cloud's surface (red) and hydrogen atoms evaporating from the surface (green). The left-hand image was taken with the four-meter Blanco telescope's Wide-Field Infrared Imager in 2015. The right-hand image was taken with the 8.1-meter Gemini South telescope's wide-field adaptive optics imager in January 2018 and has about 10 times finer resolution thanks to a mirror that changes shape to correct for atmospheric distortion. (Images courtesy of P. Hartigan/Rice University) https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5d/Sunset_Over_Gemini_South_and_the_LSST.jpg CAPTION: The Gemini South telescope is located at about 8,900 feet elevation on Cerro Pachon, a mountain near Vicuna, Chile. (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons) https://news-network.rice.edu/news/files/2020/08/0831-CARINA-ph-mug.jpg CAPTION: Patrick Hartigan (Photo courtesy of Rice University) https://news-network.rice.edu/news/files/2020/08/0831-CARINA-ai-mug.jpg CAPTION: Andrea Isella (Photo courtesy of Rice University) https://news-network.rice.edu/news/files/2020/08/0831-CARINA-td-mug.jpg CAPTION: Turlough Downes (Photo courtesy of Dublin City University) This release can be found online at news.rice.edu. Follow Rice News and Media Relations via Twitter @RiceUNews. Located on a 300-acre forested campus in Houston, Rice University is consistently ranked among the nation's top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Rice has highly respected schools of Architecture, Business, Continuing Studies, Engineering, Humanities, Music, Natural Sciences and Social Sciences and is home to the Baker Institute for Public Policy. With 3,978 undergraduates and 3,192 graduate students, Rice's undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio is just under 6-to-1. Its residential college system builds close-knit communities and lifelong friendships, just one reason why Rice is ranked No. 1 for lots of race/class interaction and No. 4 for quality of life by the Princeton Review. Rice is also rated as a best value among private universities by Kiplinger's Personal Finance. Brian Reynolds had just taken over the running of the Central Hotel on Main Street, Tullamore, when local lock-downs were announced in Offaly, Laois and Kildare. It was something of a baptism of fire for the Ballard native who was only days into the job. ''We had absolutely no notice. So as you can image, we had our orders done for the weekend. We had come in on the Friday morning and we got notice that day that we had to close.'' The hotel suffered serious financial loss as a result of the closure as guests had to be contacted and bookings cancelled. ''We offloaded our fresh food to the Ken Smollen food appeal,'' said Brian. Local man Brian will be well known in the area as we worked in the Tullamore Court Hotel on no less than four separate occasions. He was there when the Court opened its doors and worked at its very first function. From there he went to the Dunraven Arms in Adare where he worked as a development trainee manager. Afterwards he went to Galway to study hotel management returning to the Court Hotel where he worked for three years. He spent time in Killashee House in Naas before emigrating to the US, ending up in Times Square, New York, working in the bar trade. Brian returned to Ireland in 2016 as his mother Patricia was unwell. She has since sadly passed away. On his return he worked in the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone, for three years before returning to...you guessed it... The Court Hotel, Now he is the new manager of the Central Hotel and wants the hotel to be seen as very much part of the community. ''I want to build up a relationship with the town here. This is a family run, local hotel. A lot of people have never been inside the doors here,'' said Brian. ''It's an exciting challenge for me. I'm very happy to have taken it and I'm looking forward to welcoming the locals in. We would love the support of all the locals out there,'' said Brian. ''We have recently started serving lunches on Thursday, Friday and Saturdays. We are starting off with the three days as there is no passing trade anymore, people are still working from home. "We will serve salads, wraps and baps along with tea and coffee. We are keeping it simple as everything has to be cooked fresh. If people are out for lunch from work we can get them in and out within a hour. We serve dinners Monday to Saturday. Everywhere has to be sanitised afterwards.'' The 62 bed Central Hotel is currently in the process of becoming a pet friendly facility. ''Our sister property in Athlone, The Creggan Court is pet friendly and is extremely successful. So we will be the first hotel in Tullamore to do that. Guests can bring their pet into the room. The pets won't be allowed into the dining room, they can sit in the foyer where the food is not being served. I am a pet owner myself and pets can often be cleaner than humans,'' said Brian. The hotel also has two meeting rooms which can be used for anything including classes providing social distancing guidelines are followed. The hotel is a busy spot and last weekend it had an 81% occupancy rate. ''We get everyone from families to couples, to the building trade to carpenters. Sunday to Thursday it's a lot of tradesmen and the weekend we have a lot of couples and families. We are trying to add on to our packages, we have the 'Treat You Now' package which includes chocolates and flowers. We have teamed up with Birr Castle to do discounted rates for families going to Birr Castle. We are looking to team up with the cinema here [Omniplex] so that you can book your tickets while booking in here.'' What is it like in the hotel during this time? ''The major difference is social distancing. We encourage people to pre-pay so there won't be long queues or time wasted at reception. So it's paperless check-in and paperless check-out. All keys are sanitised daily. All the accommodation staff have had extra training in how to sanitise the rooms. ''When the rooms are sanitised there is a steel sticker put on the door and that is broken by the guest checking in. Guests staying for a couple of nights do not have their rooms sanitised unless they specifically request it. This is to limit the amount of people using the room. We leave a bag outside the doors, with fresh towels and toiletries but if guests want their beds changed they can ring down to us and we will organise it,'' added Brian. Brian also undertook Bord Failte Covid training and has a certificate hanging in reception indicating that. ''When we first reopened after the lock-down it was slow to get back, the word after the lock-down was stay away from Kildare and Offaly. People were afraid to travel but they are beginning to get more confident again. ''With travel restrictions in place we are doing everything to verify the addresses of people booking online or over the phone. We have to make sure they are on the Green List. If they are not on the Green List then they have to provide proof that they have quarantined for 14 days. Guests within Ireland are asked for their address too and also for proof that they are not coming from a county that is in lock-down. We are taking government guidelines very seriously. ''Across Ireland they say bedroom bookings are down 67 per cent and they reckon that in November, 88 per cent of hotel bedrooms are going to be empty which is very challenging,'' said Brian. ''But as a country we have to work together, and we do our bit here. We are doing everything on our side,to keep our little country safe,'' added Brian. According to a press release published on October 5, 2020, the 8x8 armored combat vehicle, AMV XP manufactured by the Finnish company Patria has been selected for the second phase of the Bulgarian vehicle acquisition program based on a tender phase. The final decision on the actual acquisition will be made after field tests and negotiations. Also, General Dynamics has proceeded to the second phase. Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link Patria AMV XP 8x8 armored vehicle at DSEI defense exhibition, September 2013. (Picture source Army Recognition) Bulgaria has launched a defense program to acquire 150 armored vehicles to continue the modernization of its armed forces. The Program is aimed at continuing and further developing the process of a strategic rethink of the defense policy and the build-up of the defense capabilities that were initiated by the White Paper on Defense and the Armed Forces of the Republic of Bulgaria adopted by the National Assembly in 2010. 'This is very good news as it is a sign of the high quality of Patria's vehicles and level of expertise, as well as customers confidence in them. If Bulgaria chooses Patria AMV XP as its future combat vehicle, we are ready for technology transfer and vehicle manufacturing in Bulgaria, says Jussi Jarvinen, President of Patrias Land Business Unit. Patria AMV XP is a modular, powerful and robust armored wheeled vehicle representing the top of its class, with a premium level of protection and mobility on terrain and roads. Patria AMV XP is also available with amphibious capability for amphibious and landing operations. The capabilities of the platform allow the integration of any weapon system. With effective and continuous product development and lifecycle support, the fleet is always up to date. The Patria AMV XP was unveiled in September 2013 during DSEI, an International Defense Exhibition that was held in London, UK. The layout of Patria AMV XP 8x8 armored vehicle concept is very similar to the Patria AMV, with the power pack at the front, driver front left, weapon station in the middle on top hull and troop's compartment at the rear. The vehicle has a modular vehicle architecture allowing easy adaptation to various roles and providing built-in growth potential for future customer requirements. The vehicle uses a modular ballistic, mine and IED-protection system which can be adapted according to customers requirements. The vehicle is ready to be used with future protection technologies as well as future soldier equipment. The Patria AMV XP is fitted with the highest level modular ballistic protection and potential for state-of-the-art active defense systems. The vehicle also offers protection against IED (Improvised Explosive Devices), NBC (Nuclear, Bacteriological, and Chemical), ballistic threats of up to level K5+. The mine protection of the vehicle can reach the level 4a/4b STANAG 4569. The optimized shape, low radar, and thermal signature of the vehicle enable superior stealth features. The AMV XP chassis characteristics enable the use of different types of weapon systems needed for engaging targets rapidly and with pinpoint accuracy. It can integrate medium-caliber weapon systems, direct fire cannon systems up to 120 mm, Patria Nemo 120 mm turreted mortar system, and anti-tank or anti-aircraft missile systems. The high payload of the vehicle with large internal volume enables carrying all weapon systems, ammunition, and the crew equipment according to your mission needs. Aurangabad: A farmer tried to consume some liquid from a container during a review meeting being chaired by Maharashtra minister Rajesh Tope in Jalna on Monday, police said. While Tope was listening to issues facing Jalna district, 60 kilometres from here, farmer Vilas Athavale from Pathurdi tried to consume some liquid which he had brought with him, a Taluka police station said. The man has been admitted in the civil hospital while the liquid has been sent to the forensic laboratory to find out its contents. There is some land issue back in his village and we need to find out if this act has some connection to that," Taluka police station official Sambhaji Wadate told PTI. PTI AW BNM BNM 10052012 NNNN. Disclaimer: This post has been auto-published from an agency feed without any modifications to the text and has not been reviewed by an editor The government is bracing itself for a major pro-democracy demonstration scheduled for October 14th . In Thailand one thing you dont have to worry about a demonstration turning violent. That behavior is usually employed by the police to disperse such demonstrations. The government feels more compelled to use that violence because the opinion polls show most Thais are unhappy with the current government, seeing it as corrupt, incompetent and under the control of the military. The demonstrators heed polls showing that while most Thais agree with the pro-democracy/anti-corruption and fair-elections demonstrators, there is general opposition to violent demonstrations. This attitude is not unique to Thais but it is more intense in Thailand. Military takeovers, like the last one in 2014, are not seen as a public service but rather the military backing the faction that is most likely to be generous with the military. The great majority of Thais back the effort to reform the constitution and remove the changes made while the last military government was in charge. The royalists and military leaders are concerned about all this because the pro-democracy movement has the support of a growing majority of voters. The pro-democracy movement is also seeking to take away powers and privileges the king does retain or recently revived. That is opposed by many Thais, but so is the misbehavior of the new king, who has openly collaborated with the military, even when the military has taken control of the government. To make matters worse the king has been living in the German Alps for most of 2020. The royal entourage took over a hotel for the king and about a hundred staff and family members. This began after covid19 became a crisis last April. The queen is now living in Switzerland, in her own villa with a smaller entourage. The king is accompanied by his official consort (concubine) who also commands a unit of twenty young and attractive Thai women whose main job is to keep the king company. The king also has a nearby villa, where he often spends some time with his female companions. All this has not gone over well back in Thailand, where covid19 has caused high unemployment and economic stagnation. The king made one quick (24 hour) trip back to Thailand in April to take care of some royal business but has otherwise been ruling the country from afar. Germans and Thais have protested this arrangement but the king has ignored any criticism of his self-imposed exile. The king has not escaped the demonstrations as a small number of Thais in Europe have travelled to his villa and demonstrated. Army Assurances General Jitkaewtae, the new army commander-in chief, and senior commander for the entire military, said there would not be another coup during his three-year term of office. But the new army commander pledged unquestioning support for the monarchy. Jitkaewtae alone would not make the decision for the military to again take control of the government. There are several senior commanders who must agree, some of them more senior than Jitkaewtae. Civil war is less likely than sustained civil disorder if the military seeks to again protect itself by taking control of the government. Currently there is a major reason why the military does not want to take over; the covid19 economic recession and damage it has done to the economy. Historically the economy always underperforms when the military is running the government. The current covid19 recession is shrinking the economy by 8-10 percent in 2020 and may take a while to recover after that because tourism is about 20 percent of the Thai economy and will take longer to recover from the virus panic. The government sees the unemployment rate peaking at over 25 percent and fears how long that will last. In late 2019 it was estimated that the economy (GDP) would grow nearly three percent in 2020. Now the prediction is for the GDP to lose as much as ten percent in 2020, and possibly more depending on how long it takes to get the tourists back. Exports of manufactured goods are already booming but that cannot make up for the tourism losses. All this is catastrophic for a country that has long had an unemployment rate of one percent or less. Particularly hard hit is the south, which depends a lot on tourism and where the less educated majority Moslem population always had a higher unemployment rate. The government has begun to ease economic restrictions and let people get back to work. Southern Heat After a relatively quiet year, Islamic terrorist and separatist violence is increasing. Despite that 2020 will continue the trend of violence in the south declining. There have been exceptions, the most notable one was in 2016. While 2015 was less violent than in any year since the unrest turned nasty in 2004 that changed in 2016 as violence returned to 2014 levels with about 20 percent more terrorism and southern separatist-related deaths. That was an exception as the average annual deaths down there since 2004 fell to less than 500. The decline has been the trend for several years as there were 456 deaths in 2013. Opinions differ about why there is less violence down there. The government credits the efforts of 70,000 soldiers and police in the south plus additional economic aid to an area that needs it badly. But ask the locals and you will hear that the local gangsters who carry out most of the separatist violence have finally realized that the locals were getting so angry about the years of separatist activity, especially the number of attacks on pro-government Moslems, that it was simply good business to back off on the bombs and gunfire. Instead the gangs are concentrating on the business of smuggling, extortion and making money. They are encouraged by the new government policy of replacing some of the army units with troops recruited locally. These are easier to bribe or intimidate and more likely to leave the gangs alone. Currently nearly all attacks are on security forces or teachers. The majority of southerners (over 70 percent) continue to believe the peace negotiations will succeed even though they have been stalled since 2014. The government has persuaded most of the separatist groups in the south to resume peace talks but no significant negotiations have taken place yet. The southern separatist leaders (of six groups, which claim to have a total of 7,000 armed members, most of them inactive) were reluctant to negotiate with the military government because they believed that government would soon be replaced by an elected one that may well refuse to honor a peace deal negotiated by the military. That did not happen until 2019 and many of the separatist groups sensed that and agreed to resume negotiations several years ago. The separatists seem to realize that there wont be a civil war over the reluctance of the military to allow elections sooner rather than later and that the military government is not as weak as some of them believed. The negotiations are needed to try and settle problems in the south that have been going on sporadically ever since Thailand gained control of the area centuries ago. For most of that time the Malays down there were independent or allied with (and paid tribute to) Thailand. But in 1909 Britain, which had conquered most of the Malay Peninsula to the south, signed a treaty with Thailand that left the Thais owning what became the current three southern Moslem provinces. At the time, the Malays there considered this preferable to being ruled by the British. During World War II (1939-45) the Japanese took control of Malaysia and a rebel movement saw the resulting chaos as an opportunity to create an independent Malay state, incorporating the three Thai Moslem provinces as well. This did not happen, and the British regained control of Malay in 1945 and granted the area independence (as Malaysia) in 1957. Unrest continued in the three Malay provinces, but was usually low key and considered a police matter. What made the current violence so much worse was the addition of Islamic radicalism. The basic problem is that the Buddhist ethnic Thais often have a hard time getting along with the Moslem ethnic Malays (and vice versa). But until the Islamic radicals came along, urging the use of terrorism, the independence movement was not all that violent and the south was pretty quiet. That changed on January 4th 2004 when Islamic terrorists raided a military warehouse to steal ammo and weapons. This set off a widespread (in the south) campaign of Islamic terrorism and frequently violent military responses. Since then there have been nearly 7,000 killed down there along with over 12,000 wounded. There have been over 17,000 violent incidents, most of them involving property damage or non-fatal assaults. Since 2004 Islamic terrorists in the south have killed more than 200 teachers and burned or blown up over 300 schools. The Islamic terrorists oppose secular education and especially non-Moslem teachers. Low educational levels in the south meant most of the teachers are Buddhists recruited from the wealthier and better educated north. The "terrorists" are a combination of Islamic radicals (most of the two million people in the three southern provinces are Moslem), Malay nationalists (nearly all the Moslems are ethnic Malay, not Thai) and gangsters (smuggling has long been a big business down there). The ethnic Thai majority refused (as they usually do) to back down in the face of Malay Moslem violence. After years of futile violence, the Moslem minority became increasingly hostile to the Islamic terrorists, and more frequently cooperating with the police. This happened gradually as it became obvious that the Thai government was never going to give in. As a result of this, the militants turned on the Moslem civilians, which was a downward spiral that is gradually destroying the remaining popular support they have. That led to the current decline in violence. The national government has also sent more economic aid to the south and improved the educational system. The army claims that the number of Islamic militants in the south has been reduced more than half, to a few thousand with only a few of them regularly carrying out fatal attacks. The overall violence has also declined but all this is mainly because more and more southerners are fed up with years of violence. Despite all that there are still diehard separatists down there and many are organized. October 3, 2020: In the Moslem south the security forces have been ordered to increase patrols and surveillance because of a sudden increase in bombing attacks. For most of 2020 the covid19 panic reduced Islamic terrorist and separatist violence in the south but that is changing. October 2, 2020: In the south (Narathiwat province) two bombs went off in a rural village. The first one was used against an army vehicle but only damaged it. A second bomb went off nearby 40 minutes late. There were no injuries. October 1, 2020 : In the south (Songkhla province, just north of the three Moslem provinces and also bordering Malaysia) a roadside bomb was used against a passing army vehicle, killing one soldier and wounding six others. September 30, 2020: In the capital there was a large anti-government demonstration that featured a replacement of a memorial plaque commemorating the 1932 introduction of democracy in Thailand, with the king as ceremonial head-of-state. The original plaque mysteriously disappeared in 2017, along with several similar items, and the army was suspected. This time a new plaque was set in freshly poured cement. The plaque was inscribed with a message commemorating the 1932 introduction of democracy. There was an additional inscription, This country belongs to the people and is not the property of the monarch. As expected, the police removed the new plaque and went to arrest those responsible. This demonstration is a continuation of public protests that began four months ago and have gotten larger each month September 15, 2020: The government extended the state of emergency in the Moslem south for another three months. The government has been doing this since 2005. This gives the police and army additional powers of search and arrest. The south has been quiet this year, partly because of the economic and social changes imposed by the covid19 panic. Separatist groups in the south are reconsidering their options while the small number of Islamic terrorists find that they have little local support and are hunted by a large and expert military force. September 6, 2020: In the south (Songkhla province) a tip from locals sent police after a group of four Islamic terrorists travelling around on two motorcycles. When police caught up with the group the Islamic terrorists sped off in two directions. The police went after them and in several brief gun battles two of the Islamic terrorists were killed while the other two escaped. September 3, 2020: The government has rejected the Chinese proposal to fund the construction of the 135-kilometer Kra Canal that would cost $30 billion and connect the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. The canal through the narrowest part of Thailand has been proposed for centuries but the expense and lack of sufficient economic incentive thwarted all earlier efforts. The emergence of major economies in East Asia (China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan) have changed that calculation. A canal that would shorten voyages between East Asia and point west by 2,200 kilometers (two days at sea) compared to going through the Malacca Strait makes it worthwhile for about 30 percent of the current Malacca traffic (especially large tankers or container ships) to pay a large canal transit fee (over $100,000 for a large vessel). It works for the Panama and Suez canals, although those two save ships much larger amounts of time (to go around the southern tips of South America or Africa). But the Malacca Strait handles a much larger percentage (about half and two-thirds of all tanker traffic) of world sea transport traffic. China is especially eager to incorporate the Kra Canal into its BRI (Belt and Road Initiative) project that has China financing and building roads, railroads, pipelines, ports and canals and ease travel via Eurasia and adjacent waterways. Nations who benefit by being next to the Malacca Strait always opposed the Kra Canal but now Malacca is becoming crowded to the point to overload. The canal would greatly reduce the roads connecting the four southernmost provinces with the rest of the country. Bridges over the canal are expensive as they must be high enough to let the largest ships pass, so there would be few of them. Panama only has three bridges and Suez also has two (one for rail traffic) and a tunnel. With the Chinese bridge construction would probably be part of the canal project. A Chinese firm built the third Panama Canal bridge that opened in 2019. Thailand needs the bridges because most of the very lucrative tourist resorts are on those four southern provinces. The people in those southern provinces opposed the loss of so many land connections to the rest of the country and did not want to just rely on a few bridges. There is also growing uncertainty over the massive BRI projects China is offering throughout the region. Fire brigades are trying to contain the spread of the fire. A new arson attack has been reported between the villages of Nyzhnioteple and Artema, 45-50 km from the Russia-occupied city of Luhansk, Luhansk region; the fire is approaching electrical substations, unexploded ammunition has been detonating. This was reported by Stanytsia Luhanska District State Administration on Facebook on October 5. Read alsoWildfires in Luhansk region: Stanytsia Luhanska checkpoint resumes work "Suddenly a fire has started raging there where there were no fires in 2014-2015 after large-scale attacks [by Russian forces] from Grad multiple rocket launchers," it said. "[There is] another arson attack between the settlements of Nyzhnioteple and Artema. Crown fire is approaching power substations. Firefighters are trying to contain the fire. Unexploded ordnance has been detonating from the fire," it added. Recent wildfires in Luhansk region Waffle House waitress receives $12K in donations after encounter with local pastor Email Print Img No-img Menu Whatsapp Google Reddit Digg Stumbleupon Linkedin Comment A pregnant waitress working at a Waffle House restaurant in Georgia has expressed a desire to start going to church again after receiving more than $12,000 in donations following an encounter with a local pastor. In an interview with WXIA-TV last week, Bishop Eusebio Phelps, the pastor of New Faith Christian Church in the Atlanta suburb of Stockbridge, recalled a conversation he had with Waffle House waitress Hannah Hill over the phone when he recently placed an order. She was so nice over the telephone, and when I got there I paid for my food and I told her to keep the change, the bishop was quoted as saying. Upon meeting her in person, Phelps realized that Hill was pregnant. I was just really urged to give her the rest of the money that I had in my wallet, which was around $40, he said. And so I gave her the $40 and I told her that I just wanted to be able to bless her so she could buy something for the baby. After giving Hill a $40 tip, Phelps conversation with her continued. Hill explained to Phelps that she was eight-and-a-half months pregnant and was planning to name her son Samuel. Well, we lost our son Samuel seven years ago in Atlanta, Phelps explained. Its coming up on the anniversary. I went home, I told my wife what happened. My wife and I were talking. I was like Listen, I wanna raise $1,000 to give to Hannah so she can buy whatever she needs for the baby. Phelps took to Facebook and informed his friends and followers of his encounter with Hill. He shared his goal of raising $1,000 for her. By the time he woke up the next morning, Phelps had exceeded his expectations. By the end of the following day, Phelps had raised $6,500 for Hill. He had planned to surprise her with the money at Waffle House. But, it ended up being her night off. Since Phelps had gathered an audience on Facebook Live for the surprise, the participants began working to get a hold of her. Eventually, they were able to reach Hills roommate, who woke up the sleeping waitress. Hill and her roommate began to embark on the 40-minute drive to Waffle House. In that time, donations for Hill surpassed $12,000. When Hill arrived at Waffle House, Phelps threw her a surprise baby shower. Hill told the news outlet that she was living with her mom and trying to make ends meet. She is currently living apart from her babys father at the moment. I had a lot going on, and I dont really pray that often, Hill proclaimed. Im not necessarily that religious. I wasnt raised in the Church, dont go to church a lot, havent opened a Bible in forever. But lately Ive been praying, she added. After expressing her gratitude to Phelps and the people who donated to her, Hill proclaims that the generosity she has received makes her eager to get back in church. According to Hill, the donations came even though she never told anyone, including Phelps, about the depths of her struggles. God knew. He felt it on his heart, she stressed. Hill plans on using the money she has received to get a car and move into a place with her roommate as well as her childs father. According to a post on the New Faith Christian Churchs Facebook page Friday, the church will also provide Hill with child care services for a year for both of her children at the New Faith Early Learning Center. Hannahs life will never be the same again, the Facebook post reads. Welsh Government actively considering imposing quarantine rules on those travelling into Wales from UK hotspots This article is old - Published: Monday, Oct 5th, 2020 The Welsh Government is actively considering using quarantine regulations, usually used for foreign travellers, to prevent those travelling to Wales from UK coronavirus hotspots. It comes after First Minister Mark Drakeford wrote last week to the Prime Minister requesting measures to prevent travel from Englands Covid hotspots into Wales. That request was first rejected during a Prime Minister Questions session, and then later in the week the prime minister said he had heard the plea loud and clear but again rejected it. As we wrote earlier, on Friday the First Minister spoke about the travel issue into Wales from England with it being explained it is hard to take action against the country as a whole: In England they have large areas where the position is much more difficult than Wales, but they have other areas where there are fewer cases in circulation. If you divide all the virus by all the population in England, you come with a lower figure than you do in Wales. But if you were to take the north of England, and take the areas that are closest to Wales, and the figures there are higher than Wales as a whole. During todays Welsh government coronavirus briefing, Health Minister Vaughan Gething confirmed the Welsh government was actively considering imposing some sort of quarantine regulations on people coming from high incidence areas of the UK into Wales. Mr Gething said: Well have to consider the matter today, we need to take some advice from our scientific and medical advisors, public health advisors and will then need to consider whether this is the right course of action. The measures weve introduced in Wales are about isolating areas with a higher prevalence of coronavirus and protecting lower prevalence areas too. Were actively considering what we should do and Ive discussed it this morning with the First Minister. We have quarantine regulations for international travel, so for some of the hotspot areas in the North of England, the North East, North West, and the West Midlands if they were other countries or territories, we would have quarantine regulations for them to return to the UK. We are having to consider how we use our power to protect lower prevalence areas of Wales, but at the same time, we dont want to take a whole nation approach because of low prevalence areas and at the southwest of England. Theres no good reason to prevent someone from Devon, at this point in time, coming to visit a pre-booked holiday or trip to Pembrokeshire. Its disappointing that we havent had a response to first Ministers letter but weve seen the interview with the Prime Minister, where he indicated hes not prepared to do that at this point in time. We then have to consider our own responsibility, our own powers and how well draw that in a way that is proportionate to the risk, we face. Last week it was pointed out that if Cheshires stats were in a foreign country then a quarantine would be in place, or if it was in Wales a lockdown would be in place. The Health Minister agreed back then: You are right to point out if those counties were a different country, then there would be quarantine arrangements for people who have travelled from that country into any part of the UK. You can view todays briefing here: A UFC fighter known as 'Combat Wombat' has been jailed for punching a drunk man in the face outside a Melbourne bar. Ben Sosoli is a heavyweight fighter who has made YouTube videos on 'how to knock someone out'. He assaulted his victim while working at Jackson's Lounge Bar in Toorak as a responsible service of alcohol officer in September 2019. Ben Sosoli (pictured) assaulted his victim while working at Jackson's Lounge Bar in Toorak in Victoria The patron had been refused entry because he was too drunk, but snuck in twice anyway. Sosoli marched him outside and punched him in the jaw when the man tried to free himself. He had to undergo specialist facial surgery. Sosoli, 30, has been jailed in Victoria's County Court for 22 months. His contract with the UFC has also been cancelled. The UFC heavyweight (pictured) was working as a responsible service of alcohol officer when the offence occurred Sosoli told police the patron had been 'threatening to f**k [him] up' and also said he was jet lagged after returning from the US the day before. Judge Gavan Meredith on Monday said Sosoli should expect to come across argumentative and aggressive patrons while working at a bar and deal with it appropriately. 'You are expected not to respond to provocation in the way you did,' the judge said. Sosoli pleaded guilty to recklessly causing serious injury. He must serve 11 months of his sentence before he can be considered for release on parole. Mumbai, Oct 5: The countrys largest lender State Bank of India is actively looking to hive off its digital platform Yono into a separate subsidiary, its chairman Rajnish Kumar said. Yono or You Only Need One App is the lenders integrated banking platform. There is very serious thinking going on and we are in discussions with all our partners to hive it (Yono) off as a separate subsidiary," Kumar said at a banking and finance conference, Sibos 2020, organised by the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunications (SWIFT). He said once Yono becomes an independent entity then even SBI would become its user or one of the users. However, he added, the discussions are at an early stage and the valuation of Yono has also not been done so far. Recently, Kumar had said Yono could have a valuation of around USD 40 billion. The statement (on valuation of Yono) which I made was that if I look at valuations of all the start-ups and compare then definitely Yono should not be less than USD 40 billion. As of now we have not done any valuation exercise but that is what I believe is the potential," Kumar said. Launched three years ago, Yono has 26 million registered users. It witnesses 5.5 million logins per day along with over 4,000 daily disbursals of personal loans, 16,000 Yono Krishi Agri Gold loans. New Delhi, Oct 5 : EEPC India on Monday said that India can achieve a higher exports target only if domestic taxes do not get added to the costs of shipments. Lauding Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal for calling for an aspirational export target of $1 trillion, EEPC India Chairman Mahesh Desai said: "We would only need an enabling environment where domestic taxes are not exported and high costs of transactions in the form of inadequate infrastructure are reduced." He pointed out that exporters were only partly compensated for the domestic taxes, while they continue to incur high costs of infrastructure. Desai cited a recent study of the Export-Import Bank of India that stated that immediate refunds of the GST can itself add to exports by 7 percentage points and overall GDP by two percentage points. Likewise, the same EXIM Bank study underscored the need for reduction of costs and streamlining of procedures at the ports, along with quicker cargo clearances by the customs authorities. Desai said in a highly competitive international markets, quality and cost competitiveness would be an important differentiators. In addition, he called for grater government support, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. UAE Explains Updated Economic Substance Rules by Lorys Charalambous, Tax-News.com, Cyprus 05 October 2020 The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Finance has highlighted changes made to the territory's rules on economic substance. The UAE adopted new economic substance regulations in 2019 in Cabinet Resolution No. 31 of 2019. These regulations provide that a company engaged in one of a number of specified sectors must have sufficient economic substance in the territory to access the territory's tax regime. The changes were in response to pressure from the EU on a number of territories, following recommendations from its EU Code of Conduct Group, and apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2019. The key activities identified by the European Commission Code of Conduct Group are: banking, insurance, fund management, financing and leasing, shipping, intellectual property, collective investment vehicles, and holding companies that generate income from any of these key activities. In August 2020, the UAE published Cabinet Resolution No. (57) of 2020, which replaced and repealed Cabinet Resolution No. 31 of 2019, overhauling the territory's economic substance regime. In a statement released on September 23, 2020, the Ministry of Finance explained the main changes. MoF Undersecretary Younis Haji Al Khoori said: "This resolution resulted from constructive consultations undertaken by the UAE with its partners in the European Union and the OECD. This reaffirms the UAE's commitment to adhere to tax policies, apply international taxation standards, and address tax evasion." The UAE Ministry of Finance stated: "Under [Cabinet Resolution No. (57) of 2020], the UAE Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has been appointed as the National Assessing Authority for the purposes of the UAE Economic Substance Regulations. In this capacity, the FTA will be primarily responsible for assessing whether the Emirati establishments and companies have met the requirements of the Economic Substance Test. The regulatory authorities will continue to be responsible for the collection and verification of information regarding their Licensees and shall assist the FTA in carrying out its role as the National Assessing Authority." "According to the resolution, the definition of a Licensee has been amended to be limited to juridical persons and unincorporated partnerships that are registered (whether by way of commercial/trade license or other form of permit) to carry out a Relevant Activity. Natural persons, sole proprietorships, and other business forms that are not juridical entities are no longer within the scope of the UAE economic substance regulations." "The UAE Economic Substance Regulations provides a list of entities that are exempt from the requirements to file an ESR Report and meet the Economic Substance Test. The 'Exempted Licensees' include the UAE companies that are tax resident outside of the UAE and Investment Funds and their underlying SPVs / investment holding entities. Wholly UAE resident-owned businesses that are not part of a multinational group and that only carry out business activities in the UAE, as well as UAE branches of a foreign company if the Relevant Income of the branch is subject to tax in the foreign jurisdiction - are also included. UAE companies that are majority (51 percent or more) owned by the UAE government are no longer exempt from the UAE Economic Substance Regulations." "The definition of a 'Distribution and Service Centre Business' was also amended, and currently includes businesses that purchase raw materials or finished products from a foreign group company and distributes them to related or unrelated parties in the UAE or elsewhere, irrespective of whether such raw materials or finished products are imported into the UAE; and/or businesses that provide services to a foreign group company, without the previous requirement that the provision of services is in connection with the foreign group company's business outside the UAE." Finally, the MOF statement clarified the definition of a "High Risk Intellectual Property Licensee" for the purposes of the regulations, as "an Intellectual Property Business that meets all the following conditions: the business did not create the Intellectual Property Asset; the business acquired the Intellectual Property Asset from either a connected person or in consideration for funding research and development by another person situated in a foreign jurisdiction; the business licenses sold the Intellectual Property Asset to a Connected Person, or earns separately identifiable income from a Foreign Connected Person in respect of the use or exploitation of the Intellectual Property Asset." Nwogus friend and fraternity brother William Ventura, 22, said he had been in touch with Nwogus family but the death had not yet sunk in. He had a beautiful soul and he would have done a lot in this world, Ventura said in a brief interview. He was taken way too soon from us. Its not fair. A woman in a lifelong battle with drug addiction is still hoping that she can win it, her solicitor said today as she was jailed for five months for her latest crimes. Susan Greene, 38, pleaded guilty to a number of offences including having heroin and shoplifting at Cork District Court. Sergeant Pat Lyons said that on July 27, Susan Greene of Cork Simon Community went to Lidl on Cornmarket Street, Cork, and stole a bottle of vodka. She paid for certain items but put the vodka in her bag and left without paying for it. On July 30 she came to the attention of gardai again in Cork city centre where she was handling stolen property. She had a bottle of Kenso perfume and she was asking members of the public to buy it from her. Most recently on August 7 she was on the sixth floor of the Q car park on Carrolls Quay taking drugs in a stairwell. Gardai arrived at the scene to find a number of people who appeared to be in the act of taking drugs. The defendant was searched and heroin was found in tinfoil in her handbag. Susan Green admitted having this drug for her own use. Sgt Lyons said the defendant had 34 previous convictions including four for larceny, eight for theft and three for handling stolen property. Defence solicitor Joseph Cuddigan said the defendant was pleading guilty to all the charges against her. He said that she had a chronic addiction and despite previous failed attempts to get off drugs she was continuing in her efforts to deal with the problem. Even now in Limerick Prison she is using the period there to detoxify. It is becoming a lifelong battle but she hopes to win, Mr Cuddigan said. It should have been 'crystal clear' that Manchester Arena could be vulnerable to a suicide bomber security experts have told the inquiry on the first day of evidence. The experts - commissioned by the inquiry into the 22 deaths on May 22, 2017 - said officials should have known that the area where bomber Salman Abedi detonated his backpack device was the most-likely target. A tabletop exercise in June 2016 had specifically highlighted that the City Room foyer might be the target for an attack. Nevertheless, there was no joint plan between SMG - the arena operator - and British Transport Police, who patrolled the area about what to do, the inquiry heard. Abedi was able to spend an hour waiting in the foyer for the concert to end with his bomb on his back, without being quizzed by security or police. Colonel Richard Latham - who had previously been responsible for security at the House of Commons and O2 Arena in London - was commissioned by the inquiry to offer expert advice on the arena security. Asked if there was a threat from a 'person-borne improvised explosive device' (PBIED), Col Latham said: 'That should have been crystal clear.' It should have been 'crystal clear' that Manchester Arena could be vulnerable to a suicide bomber security experts have told the inquiry on the first day of evidence. Pictured: Police at the scene on the night of the attack He said an attack was more likely outside the arena than inside it because of the security at the door. He added: 'The City Room, evidence says, was the main entrance with the highest flow, rate of footfall, in ingress and egress. 'Therefore it could be predicted that was where the highest, most densely packed target predictably was. 'Compared to other entrances, in that respect it was known to be different.' A table-top exercise called Operation Sherman had considered the risk of a marauding firearms attack ending with a suicide bomb attack in the City Room. David Bamaung, a former police officer who worked as a counter-terrorism security advisor in Glasgow, also contributed to the expert report. Paul Greaney QC, counsel to the inquiry, asked: 'Was there material risk of PBIED attack?' 'Yes there was a material risk,' Mr Bamaung said. The inquiry was told that following the attack on Westminster Bridge and the Houses of Parliament two months earlier, the Joint Terrorism and Analysis Centre (JTAC) at MI5 had raised the threat level to 'severe', meaning an attack was 'highly likely.' Victims (top row left to right) off-duty police officer Elaine McIver, 43, Saffie Roussos, 8, Sorrell Leczkowski, 14, Eilidh MacLeod, 14, (second row left to right) Nell Jones, 14, Olivia Campbell-Hardy, 15, Megan Hurley, 15, Georgina Callander, 18, (third row left to right), Chloe Rutherford,17, Liam Curry, 19, Courtney Boyle, 19, and Philip Tron, 32, Victims (fourth row left to right) John Atkinson, 26, Martyn Hett, 29, Kelly Brewster, 32, Angelika Klis, 39, (fifth row left to right) Marcin Klis, 42, Michelle Kiss, 45, Alison Howe, 45, and Lisa Lees, 43 (fifth row left to right) Wendy Fawell, 50 and Jane Tweddle, 51 However, the operator of the arena, believed it 'shared' responsibility for the security of the City Room foyer, where the attack took place with the police, the inquiry was told. SMG had not agreed a plan on how to deal with threat of an attack with either the police or the private security firm they employed to operate on the ground, the hearing was told. The operator said that the City Room, in contrast to the arena itself, was a 'public space' and added: 'We do not accept we had sole responsibility for security there. The police also had such responsibility.' The inquiry has heard that British Transport Police were specifically tasked with patrolling the foyer on the night of the attack - but were in Victoria Station nearby for most of the hour that Abedi was waiting for the concert to end. Col Latham said he would expect a formal plan to exist 'without out a doubt.' Salman Abedi was able to spend an hour waiting in the foyer for the concert to end with his bomb on his back, without being quizzed by security or police He added: 'Knowing who's in charge and knowing what to do is important. There was a high degree of threat and there was a need to anticipate an adverse event and decide what jointly to do together. 'I would expect all crowded places to sit down with their police to say, would there be an officer at ingress and egress?' He also said there ought to have been 'proper planning and assessment of risk on a joint basis' he said and 'given the threat level and advice from [police] that ought to have been obvious.' 'I might direct where patrolling is to take place and when patrolling should take place, what actions should be taken in certain circumstances. 'It did not override police procedures but it meant we could safely coordinate to deliver events at my venue.' Two members of ShowSec, who delivered the security on behalf of SMG, had their attention drawn to Abedi, the bomber, but did nothing to intervene. The company has told the inquiry that its staff were 'casually employed, moderately paid and from different backgrounds with a range of experience.' Mr Greaney asked: 'What would you say if ultimately evidence reveals that members of staff for Showsec lacked experience or motivation?' Col Latham said: 'My comment would be that knowing security industry well as I do, you often have young and inexperienced staff carrying out security roles and what is important is that they need to be well supported by caring supervisors who use carrot rather than stick and take care of those who are inexperienced.' Mr Bamaung told the inquiry that 'common sense would dictate that there was joint plan.' 'Our understanding is there was no formal agreement and possibly a lack of appreciation of each other's role.' He said he would have expected BTP to have had a presence in the City Room 'throughout the night' for 'security and for public reassurance as people leave the event.' 'That is the area where there was the largest congregation of crowds when leaving the event,' he added. Earlier in the inquest, it was revealed that firefighters were held back from the Manchester Arena blast scene for two hours because the force was trained for the wrong kind of terror attack. Station Master Andy Berry appeared to allow his 'decision-making' to be influenced by the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service's training for 'multicentred marauding attacks' - rather than suicide bombers. Attacks of this nature involve an assailant swiftly moving through an area with the aim of killing or injuring as many people as possible - usually using a knife or gun - in a short space of time. Because of this, Berry did not let firefighters enter the scene to rescue victims for two hours because he presumed 'other components to the attack were likely'. This in turn 'contributed to a failure to challenge and interrogate information that tended to confirm that scenario', lawyer for the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) Andrew Warnock said. Members of the public had to rescue injured concert-goers at the scene as firefighters were not there to rescue victims themselves. Similar assumptions about a rampant gunman stopped paramedics arriving at the scene during the London Bridge terror attack in 2017. Salman Abedi killed himself and 22 innocent people when he detonated a huge bomb in his backpack as concert-goers were leaving an Ariana Grande concert at the arena on May 22, 2017. Hundreds of others were also seriously injured. The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service apologised for the two-hour delay in rescuing victims - but blamed 'silence' from the police on the night of the bombing for causing it. They said a lack of communication led fire service bosses to assume there was a continuing marauding terror strike and so firefighters were kept back. There was an almost identical communications failure at a notorious terror training exercise at the Trafford Centre some 12 months before the Arena attack which delayed firefighters and paramedics reaching the scene for 90 minutes. The drill, named the Winchester Accord, replicated a marauding terrorist firearms attack, similar to the 2008 attack in Mumbai. Police chiefs had to apologise when the man playing the suicide bomber shouted 'Allahu Akbar' as he 'detonated' his fake bomb at the beginning of the drill, which was filmed by the media. There was an almost identical communications failure at a notorious terror training exercise at the Trafford Centre some 12 months before the Arena attack which delayed firefighters and paramedics reaching the scene for 90 minutes. Pictured: A picture from the simulated terror attack The 2016 drill, named the Winchester Accord, replicated a marauding terrorist firearms attack, similar to the 2008 attack in Mumbai. Pictured: Mumbai gunman Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasa He said police were supposed to declare Operation Plato - where there is suspected to be a marauding terrorist - during the Trafford Centre training exercise which would then have triggered a response from the fire and ambulance services. Mr Warnock earlier said neither the fire service nor specialist ambulance crews received any contact from GMP during the drill and that 'attempts to contact the police commanders proved unsuccessful'. 'There are obvious, striking, parallels with what happened on the night of the arena incident,' Mr Warnock said. On the night of the Manchester Arena attack, the North West Fire Control did not provide 'sufficient information' to the Manchester fire service, their lawyer Robert Smith QC, admitted. Station Master Andy Berry appeared to allow his 'decision-making' to be influenced by the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service's training for 'multicentred marauding attacks'. Salman Abedi (pictured) on the night of the attack The control room only received three calls all night, from the police, ambulance and one member of the public, and did nothing to try and get more information, he revealed in in submissions to the inquiry. The control room had procedures for an unexploded bomb but none for a terrorist bomb attack, the inquiry was told. When an NWFC operator rang the on-call liaison officer to tell him there was a bomb attack, she added: 'Obviously we are not mobilising at the moment.' Station Master Berry, the fire officer in charge on the night, said he would speak to the police force duty officer, but he never got through. In the meantime, he vetoed a police rendezvous near Victoria Station, saying it was too close to the site of the attack, and instead chose a fire station two miles away. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (a fire engine at the scene) has apologised for taking two hours to respond to the Manchester Arena terror attack He was at home, 22 miles from the fire station at Philips Park, but decided to drive there, leaving at 10.47pm, and taking just under an hour to cover the journey, arriving at 11.41pm. His journey was hampered by delays from roadworks and 'traffic difficulties' on the way and while he made the trip no one knew who was in charge, the inquiry was told. Eventually the Chief Fire Officer, Peter O'Reilly arrived at the fire service headquarters at 11.50pm, an hour and 19 minutes after the attack, and discovering that no fire appliances had been mobilised to the arena. He used his 'personal contacts' with senior ambulance officials to find out what was happening but the fire engines were not deployed for another 40 minutes. Mr Warnock said GMFRS had 'planned and trained extensively' for terrorist and mass casualty incidents. 'We would like the bereaved families to know that prior to the attack GMFRS had taken the risk of terrorist attacks and the need to respond to mass casualty events extremely seriously,' he said. Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi (pictured) was brought to the attention of M15 on at least 18 occasions before the 2017 terror attack, a public inquiry has heard 'That it had done so makes it all the more disappointing for all involved that the organisation's response fell so far short when the Manchester Arena bomb happened.' The fire service response was driven by a 'misinformed and skewed understanding of what was happening.' Key personnel made incorrect assumptions about what a terrorist attack 'would likely involve' which led them to assume that the bomb was 'one part of an on-going terrorist attack.' 'Silence from partner agencies as the night went on fed the assumption that the police were dealing with an on-going armed threat,' Mr Warnock said. He told the inquiry: 'In relation to the fire service response on the night, we say at the outset that GMFRS accepts and agrees with the conclusions of the fire and rescue expert that its initial actions in response to the Arena bombing were neither adequate nor effective. 'It is unacceptable that it took over two hours for the fire and rescue service to attend the arena. On behalf of GMFRS we would like to say to the families and victims that we are sorry that this happened.' For its sixteenth edition, the JCA-Mauvernay Award was awarded to Doctor Hideaki Ogiwara and Doctor Keisuke Kataoka LAUSANNE, Switzerland, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ --Debiopharm (www.debiopharm.com), a Swiss-based global, biopharmaceutical company, presented the JCA-Mauvernay Award on October 3rd to Dr. Hideaki Ogiwara from the Division of Cancer Therapeutics of the National Cancer Center Research Institute for his work on the "Development of Synthetic Lethal Therapy for Chromatin Regulator Deficient Cancers" and Dr. Keisuke Kataoka from the Division of Molecular Oncology of the National Cancer Center Research Institute for his work on the Genetic dissection of molecular pathogenesis in human cancer. Doctors Ogiwara and Kataoka received their Award during the hybrid (virtual/live) meeting of the 79th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Cancer Association (JCA) that was partially held in Hiroshima on the following theme: "Confronting the solid truth of cancer and working together." As Mr. Thierry Mauvernay, President of Debiopharm, was unable to join the ceremony due to the pandemic situation, Dr. Hitoshi Nakagama President of the JCA and Dr. Takato Noumi, Debiopharm's representative in Japan, were able to present trophies to both winners. The work of Dr. Hideaki Ogiwara focuses on synthetic lethality, an occurrence when cancer cells become exquisitely sensitive to a therapeutic agent only because they carry a genetic perturbation that renders them dependent on the target of the therapeutic agent for survival. Inhibition of this target with the agent will thus kill the mutated cells but have no effect on cells that do not carry the genetic perturbation. Dr. Keisuke Kataoka has been working on large-scale determination of genetic alterations in human cancers and has identified some that could account for tumor immune evasion. Dr. Kataoka has also identified multiple mutations within single oncogenes that can be found across several cancer types. Some of these multiple mutations could contribute to shaping the clonal selection of tumors. "We are proud to reward Dr. Hideaki Ogiwari and Dr. Keisuke Kataoka for their commitment and hard work in cancer research. I regret not being able to travel to Japan, but this year's events have shown us how key global scientific collaboration and research are to the development of tomorrow's treatments. We have always been impressed by the high quality of scientific innovation that is coming from Japan and we look forward to continuing this close relationship with the Japanese Cancer Association." - Thierry Mauvernay, President of Debiopharm. The JCA-Mauvernay Award Since 2005, the Japanese Cancer Association (JCA) and Debiopharm Group have co-organized the 'JCA-Mauvernay Award'. This prize illustrates the curiosity that drives researchers as well as the scientific cooperation between Japan and Switzerland. It aims at recognizing outstanding achievements in the field of oncology amongst Japanese researchers, in both the fundamental and the clinical aspects. The award has a total value of CHF 25'000. Debiopharm's commitment to cancer patients Debiopharm aims to develop innovative therapies that target high unmet medical needs in oncology. Bridging the gap between disruptive discovery products and real-world patient reach, we identify high-potential compounds for in-licensing, clinically demonstrate their safety and efficacy and then select large pharmaceutical commercialization partners to maximize patient access globally. Recently recognized as Swiss Biotech Success Story 2020 for our achievements over the last 40 years, Debiopharm continues its quest to research innovative cancer therapies such as the recently launched phase III trial TrilynX for high-risk head and neck cancer patients with the FDA Breakthrough Designated Therapy xevinapant (Debio 1143). For more information, please visit www.debiopharm.com We are on Twitter. Follow us @DebiopharmNews at http://twitter.com/DebiopharmNews Debiopharm Contact Dawn Haughton - Communication Manager dawn.haughton@debiopharm.com Tel: +41 (0)21 321 01 11 Police in Amethi have prepared a blueprint for safely conducting the Uttar Pradesh panchayat polls in the district, which will now be held next year, according to a report on Monday. Under the blueprint, every beat constable has been directed to prepare a village tour report in which every little detail regarding a village shall be recorded, HTs sister publication Hindustan reported. The report will contain details like the population of a village, the status of the population on religious grounds, names of gamblers and alcoholics, history-sheeters, those accused of serious crimes, number of temples and mosques, liquor shops etc, according to Hindustan. A copy of the report will be maintained by the SPs office as well. Heres all you need to know about the UP panchayat polls: 1. The state election commission will publish the final voter list for the polls on December 29. This is a confirmation that, as expected, the panchayat polls will not take place this year, as earlier scheduled, due to the coronavirus pandemic. 2. Booth-level officers (BLO) started conducting door-to-door visits from October 1 to check the voter list. The exercise will continue till November 12. 3. Names of those who have turned 18 since the last panchayat polls, in 2015, or will attain this age by January 1, 2021, will be added to the voter list. Names of those who have passed away in this duration, as well as duplicate voters, will be removed. 4. Voters can be get added to the voters list also by applying online. This can be done from October 1 to November 5 by downloading application forms from the commissions official website sec.up.nic.in. Door-to-door visits will be conducted from November 6-12 to check these applications. 5. Draft voter list will be published on December 6 and voters can check for their names and other details till December 12. In this period, people can also raise objections to the draft voter list. 6. These claims and objections will be inspected from December 13 to December 19 and the final voter list published on December 29. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON While Indigenous people and Canadians are coping with the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, Indigenous women and girls continue to disappear and many remain missing. They were recently honoured and remembered with Sisters in Spirit vigils held across the country. We cannot wait for one crisis to be over before we address the other. Ontario has the highest population of Indigenous women in Canada almost 200,000 with 85 per cent living off-reserve in urban and rural areas. We are your neighbours. During the pandemic, racism, domestic violence, homelessness and human trafficking have all increased, and the threat to Indigenous women and girls remains higher than for any other group. Intersecting social and economic challenges contribute to the exploitation of Indigenous women and our vulnerability to violence. The systems that we must navigate throughout our lifetime, and the forms of violence we face within them, include health care, child welfare, education, food security, homelessness and housing, employment, social services, media and social media, etc. Beyond physical violence, Indigenous women and girls also experience violence in the form of racism, discrimination from the very systems that are supposed to support us and provide safety. Additionally a lack of respect for our right for sovereignty over our children, self and nations, as well as misrepresentations in literature, education, and research. To address violence against Indigenous women and girls, the National Action Plan must focus on these social and economic systems and their root causes. To support this, the Ontario Native Womens Association (ONWA) has released Reconciliation with Indigenous Women: Changing the Story of MMIWG, a report outlining key areas of concern and recommendations for moving forward. The report looks to Indigenous women, their knowledge and experience, as not only the focus of the national inquiry, but as natural leaders in finding and implementing meaningful solutions. This critical information must be integrated into the National Action Plan if it is to be successful. We do not need to search out additional outside knowledge or expertise. We have the answers. In the report, we offer 13 recommendations based on decades of input from Indigenous women and previous research. Incorporating the traditional 13 Grandmother Moons Teachings, these strengths-based recommendations and a holistic approach will foster independence, resilience, and environments in which Indigenous women and girls are respected, not dehumanized, and their safety is supported. At ONWA, we recognize the important role we play. Indigenous womens organizations bring critical knowledge, expertise, leadership, and community voice to the table. They provide safe spaces where Indigenous women feel comfortable disclosing the violence they are experiencing. There must be a commitment for the development of new funding relationships that include Indigenous womens organizations because they are best equipped to respond. This is why ONWA is proud to participate as the federal governments 11th Indigenous Womens Working Group, to be comprised of Indigenous womens service providers and experts on specific safety issues that Indigenous women face. Communities have the knowledge of how to begin the healing and reconciliation of the intergenerational trauma, oppression, and systemic racism that continue to affect our overall health and safety. Having Indigenous women design, develop and deliver community-based programs with independence is where changed outcomes will occur. By funding culturally specific programs that are already operating in communities, ONWA estimates a savings to the provincial government of at least $50 million a year. Some examples include our Nihdawin Housing Program, Breaking Free from Family Violence Program and our Anti-Human Trafficking Program. Indigenous women must have easy access to inclusive, trauma-informed, culturally based social services that are informed by Indigenous women and their immediate needs. This will lead directly to improved safety and help address the systemic causes of violence that have resulted in Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Support us in our leadership to end this epidemic. KYODO NEWS - Oct 5, 2020 - 16:15 | All, Japan A civic group on Monday submitted a protest to public broadcaster NHK's Hiroshima station over a series of tweets criticized for fanning discrimination against Korean residents of Japan. The protest by the Peace Philosophy Center, based in Vancouver, Canada, has been endorsed by more than 300 people including atomic-bomb survivor and peace advocate Setsuko Thurlow and former Hiroshima mayors. The tweets in question were part of the 1945 Hiroshima Timeline, a "what-if" social media project the station launched in March to help younger generations understand the lives of citizens in the atomic-bombed city during and after World War II. The hypothetical tweets, based on diaries of citizens kept 75 years ago, included those by a 13-year-old boy who wrote about how a crowd of Koreans forced their way into a packed train and threw other passengers through a window. The broadcaster last week deleted the tweets but went on to instead post them on its website with notes on their historical context. Satoko Norimatsu, who heads the peace advocacy group, said it urged NHK to completely remove the posts. "We want NHK to admit that the posts contain discriminatory contents," she said after submitting the protest to the broadcaster. Related coverage: NHK apologizes over tweets said to fan discrimination against Koreans Source: Xinhua| 2020-10-05 23:35:41|Editor: huaxia Video Player Close CAIRO, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- An Egyptian court on Monday sentenced 11 members of the currently outlawed Muslim Brotherhood group to 15 years in prison over charges of violence in 2013, state-run Ahram newspaper reported. The defendants were accused of gathering to jeopardize citizens' lives and inciting public disorder, cutting the roads and resisting the policemen who were tasked with dispersing a sit-in in the Giza province to support the late president Mohamed Morsi, the judge read. The court also fined them more than 2 million U.S. dollars for causing damage in the country's public zoo, public park, the headquarters of the province and a nearby engineering faculty. The case originally involved 286 people on the same accusations, but the majority was acquitted in earlier trials, the report added. Since the ouster of Morsi in 2013 by the army in response to mass protests against his rule, the county has been fighting waves of anti-security attacks that killed hundreds of police and army men. Meanwhile, hundreds of Brotherhood members, including its top leaders, have been in trials over charges of murder, violence and espionage. Enditem (Newser) Saturday Night Live is taking some flak for joking about President Trump's illness during its season openerbut Alec Baldwin says the show would have gone easier on the president if he had been "truly, gravely ill." "We only have the words of the White House itself and the people who work there themselves to go on and all of them have been saying he is not in any danger," Baldwin said in an Instagram video posted Sunday, per USA Today. He said a lot of proposed material is turned down "because [it is] deemed inappropriate" and that the producers know what content not to go near. In Saturday's cold open, which mocked Tuesday's debate, Baldwin played Trump opposite Jim Carrey's Joe Biden. "The China virus is a hoaxand that will probably come back to haunt me later this week," Baldwin's Trump said. story continues below "If you didn't like the sketch, I'm sorry. I thought we kept the gloves on," Baldwin said in the Instagram video. He also discussed the precautions the show is taking during the pandemic, ET reports. "Everybody is masked, everyone has a shield, even the cast has masks and just pulls them off as they do a scene," he said. In Saturday's show, Michael Che defended joking about Trump's coronavirus infection. "There's a lot funny about thismaybe not from a moral standpoint, but mathematically, if you were constructing the joke, this is all the ingredients you need," he said during "Weekend Update." He added: "The problem is, it's almost too funny, like it's so on the nose. It would be like if I were making fun of people who wear belts and then my pants just immediately fell down." (Read more Saturday Night Live stories.) A truck carrying about 100 monkeys was in a crash in Pennsylvania, and authorities were searching for at least three monkeys that apparently escaped. It is 'incomprehensible' that primary schools remain fully open at a time when infection levels are so high in the community that no indoor gatherings or events are allowed. That is according to the Irish National Teachers Organisation (INTO), which has written to Minister for Education Norma Foley, in light of the recommendation from Nphet that the entire country to move to level 5 restrictions. Under the five-level plan for living with Covid, it is the Governments intention that schools and creches remain open in levels 1 to 4 with protective measures in place. At Level 5, the recommendations for schools and creches are to be based on the situation and evidence at the time. INTO has demanded clarity on the status of schools at Level 5. Following the NPHET recommendation that the country may need to enter Level 5 restrictions, we have called for an immediate public health review on the status of schools at this level... (1/2) INTO (Irish National Teachers' Organisation) (@INTOnews) October 5, 2020 Despite consultations with the department, the INTO says it has received no clarification on what protective measures apply in primary and special schools under the higher levels, according to John Boyle, INTO general secretary. In our view, it is inconceivable that the same protections - hand sanitising, hand washing, enhanced cleaning, ventilation, pods and bubbles - would be deemed to be sufficient at all of [Levels 1-4]," he said. Urgent clarity is also needed around the additional measures of protection in schools at level 4, compared to what is currently in place at Level 3, including those in Dublin and Donegal where level 3 currently applies, he added. "Crucially we now also need clarity on the plans for primary and special schools in areas where level five would apply. Read More Fear and surprise: Teachers and businesses respond to lockdown proposal In our view it is incomprehensible that our schools, which have the largest class sizes in Europe, would remain fully open at a time where infection levels were so high in the community that no indoor gatherings or events were permissible. Both second-level teachers unions have also called for urgent meetings with the Department of Education. The Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland (ASTI), the largest second-level teachers union, has also called for a review of safety in schools. "The health, safety, and welfare of all members of our school communities is of paramount importance," said Ann Piggott, president of the ASTI. The Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) said its members are extremely worried by current events and about their health and safety in the workplace. TUI seeks urgent engagement on any move to higher level of Covid-19 restrictions https://t.co/vA9AVcWVdd pic.twitter.com/rI9gqsvI0W Teachers' Union Ire. (@TUIunion) October 5, 2020 We have many members with serious underlying health issues and also many members who share a household with people with underlying health issues, said Michael Gillespie, TUI general secretary. We require urgent engagement in relation to what increased protections will apply to teachers in an escalation to Level 4 restrictions. We have already sought detailed clarification on why it would be safe for schools to remain open at Level 5 if the rest of society is effectively locked down. Kendra Baker / Hearst Connecticut Media NEW FAIRFIELD A local woman is facing charges after a verbal dispute between she and her neighbor turned physical, according to police. Rachel Hugnou-Petrillo, 38, was charged with third-degree assault and breach of peace the morning of Sept. 29, following a neighborly dispute over a property line and tree-cutting, police said. The many millions of bodies populating the Kuiper Belt beyond Neptune's orbit are yet to reveal many of their secrets. In the 1980s, the space probes Pioneer 1 and 2 as well as Voyager 1 and 2 crossed this region - but without cameras on board. NASA's spacecraft New Horizons sent the first images from the outermost edge of the solar system to Earth: in the summer of 2015 of dwarf planet Pluto and three and a half years later of the trans-Neptunian object Arrokoth, about 30 kilometers in size. Not yet officially named, the body was nicknamed Ultima Thule at the time, in reference to the northernmost land point on Earth. After all, the trans-Neptunian object is the body furthest away from the Sun that has ever been visited and imaged by a man-made probe. Especially Arrokoth's strange shape caused a sensation in the days after the fly-by. The body is a contact binary, believed to be a result of low velocity merging of two separate bodies that formed close together. It is composed of two connected lobes, of which the smaller one is slightly flattened, the larger one strongly so, creating the impression of a squashed snowman. In their current publication, the researchers from China, Germany, and the USA investigate how this shape came to be. A pronounced bi-lobed shape is also known from some comets. However, there is no other known body that is as flat as Arrokoth. Did Arrokoth already look like this when it was created? Or did its shape develop gradually? "We like to think of the Kuiper Belt as a region where time has more or less stood still since the birth of the Solar System," explains Dr. Ladislav Rezac from MPS, one of the two first authors of the current publication. More than four billion kilometers away from the Sun, the bodies of the Kuiper Belt have remained frozen and unchanged, so is the common belief. New Horizon's images of Arrokoth challenge this idea by its apparently smooth surface without signs of frequent cratering events and by its peculiar, flattened shape. Scientists assume that the Solar System was formed 4.6 billion years ago from a disk of dust: the particles from this nebula agglomerated into ever larger clumps; these clumps collided and merged into even larger bodies. "There is as yet no explanation as to how a body as flat as Arrokoth could emerge from this process," says Rezac. Another possibility would be that Arrokoth had a more ordinary shape to begin with. It may have started as a merger between a spherical and an oblate body at the time of its creation and only gradually become flattened. Earlier studies suggest that during the formation of the Solar System, the region where Arrrokoth is located could have been a distinct environment in the cold, dust-shaded mid-plane of the outer nebula. The low temperatures enabled volatiles such as carbon monoxide and methane to freeze onto dust grains and compose planetesimals. When the nebular dust cleared after Arrokoth's formation, solar illumination would have raised its temperature and hence rapidly driven off the condensed volatiles. Arrokoth's strange shape would then be a natural outcome due to a favorable combination of its large obliquity, small eccentricity and mass-loss rate variation with solar flux, resulting in nearly symmetric erosion between north and south hemispheres. "For a body to change its shape as extremely as Arrokoth, its rotational axis needs to be oriented in a special way", Rezac explains. Unlike Earth's rotational axis, Arrokoth's is almost parallel to the orbital plane. During its 298 year orbit around the Sun, one polar region of Arrokoth faces the Sun continuously for nearly half the time while the other faces away. Regions at equator and lower latitudes are dominated by diurnal variations year round. "This causes the poles to heat up the most, so that frozen gases escape from there most efficiently resulting in a strong mass loss," says Dr. Yuhui Zhao from the Purple Mountain Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The flattening process most likely occurred early in the evolution history of the body and proceeded rather quickly on a timescale of about one to 100 million years during the presence of super volatile ices in the near subsurface layers. In addition, the scientists self-consistently demonstrated that the induced torques would play a negligible role in the planetesimal's spin state change during the mass loss phase. "How many of such 'flattened snowman' bodies are in the Kuiper Belt depends primarily on the probability of a body having a spin-axis inclination similar to Arrokoth's and on the amount of super-volatile ices present near its subsurface", Rezac says. There are reasons to believe that even objects like Arrokoth had considerable amounts of super-volatiles that have escaped during its early evolution. For instance, Pluto, due to its size and stronger gravity retains carbon monoxide, nitrogen and methane gasses even today. In the case of smaller bodies, these volatiles would long have escaped into space. ### JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) Missouri Gov. Mike Parson said Sunday he has been cleared to return to the office after battling the coronavirus. Parson said on his Facebook page Sunday that he and his wife, Teresa Paulson, had both been cleared by doctors to return to work from their home in Bolivar in southwestern Missouri. They both tested positive on Sept. 23. Neither developed serious symptoms. I just want to thank everybody for their thoughts and prayers during this time. We are so blessed to be fortunate to be in the over 100,000 people in the state of Missouri that's recovered from the coronavirus, Parson, a Republican, said in a video posted on his Facebook page. Missouri continues to have one of the highest rates of positive cases of the virus in the nation. The seven-day rolling average of the positivity rate in Missouri has risen over the past two weeks from 11.63% on Sept. 19 to 18.04% on Saturday, according to an Associated Press analysis of data from John's Hopkins University. That rate was the sixth-highest among all states. On Sunday, Missouri reported 132,431 confirmed cases of the virus and 2,173 deaths since the pandemic began. This is up from 129,397 confirmed cases and 2,144 deaths on Friday. Parson, 65, has been a staunch opponent of requiring people to wear masks even though he has urged people to wear them and maintain social distancing because of the ongoing pandemic. He sometimes appears without a mask at public functions. Missouri has had no statewide restrictions related to the coronavirus since June 15. Parson is facing Democratic State Auditor Nicole Galloway in the November election. A planned debate between the two last month had to be postponed because of Parsons illness. Parson is a former county sheriff and state representative who was elected lieutenant governor in 2016. After a deadly spring as the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic in the United States, New York City finally seemed to be on the mend: Students could return to school, diners could eat in restaurants and life as we knew it before the pandemic felt nearly in reach. But on Sunday, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that high coronavirus infection rates in parts of Brooklyn and Queens had led him to propose rewinding the reopening in those sections of the city. If the plan is approved by the governor, schools and nonessential businesses in those hot spots will close for a minimum of two weeks while the city waits for the infection rates to decline. Whether the uptick in infections is an anomaly or the start of a second wave of remains to be seen. Heres what you need to know: What will close Essentially, the affected ZIP codes will go back to life under lockdown. Starting this Wednesday, public and private schools will close, as will nonessential businesses and restaurants for both indoor or outdoor dining. She has been catapulted to the spotlight amid a blossoming romance with Brad Pitt. And Nicole Poturalski looked nothing short of sensational as she posed for a stunning Instagram snap on Monday. The model, 27, showcased her modelling chops as she fixed the camera with a sultry stare while posing on the floor against a white wall. Beauty: Brad Pitt's girlfriend Nicole Poturalski, 27, looked nothing short of sensational as she posed for a stunning Instagram snap on Monday Nicole donned a blue floral minidress with a peace sign print along with a small gold necklace. The German beauty, who uses the name Nico Mary for her modelling career, let her brunette locks fall loose down her shoulders. Alongside the snap, Nicola wrote: 'Live by the sun, Love by the moon'. Brad, 56, and Nicole were first spotted together in November during a performance of Kanye West's opera Nebuchadnezzar at the Hollywood Bowl. Chic: Brad, 56, and Nicole were first spotted together in November during a performance of Kanye West's opera Nebuchadnezzar at the Hollywood Bowl The pair sparked relationship rumors when they were spotted arriving in the South of France on a private jet and visited Chateau Miraval, where he produces $390 (300) Rose champagne. An insider revealed to US Weekly that Brad remains 'realistic about the relationship' since she 'lives in Germany' and he 'has a very complicated family situation that he is trying to get sorted out. Earlier in September The Sunday Mirror reported that his ex Angelina Jolie was 'furious' that Brad had taken her to the spot in France where they were married just over six years. Brad was married to Jennifer Aniston, 51, from 2000-2005. Nearly nine years later, he married Angelina in 2014, but she filed for divorce in September 2016. The boyfriend: Earlier in September The Sunday Mirror reported that Brad's ex Angelina Jolie was 'furious' that Brad had taken her to the spot in France where they were married just over six years Making matters worse was that Brad and Nicole visited only days after what would have been his sixth wedding anniversary with the actress. 'Angie is furious and utterly stunned Brad could stoop this low,' a source told The Mirror. 'She was highly hopeful they could dial down the intensity after a terrible summer of fighting, but now thats totally off the table.' The former couple had appeared to reach a cordial understanding about co-parenting their kids, with the Once upon A Time... In Hollywood actor spotted leaving the actress' LA home in June after spending time with the children. However, US Weekly claims they are now at odds again over how much time they each get with their children Pax, 16, Zahara, 15, Shiloh, 14, and 12-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne. The Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha has decided to launch a YouTube channel dedicated to Mahatma Gandhis assassin, Nathuram Godse. Hindu Mahasabha spokesman, Abhishek Agarwal said: The younger generation is very active on social media and has decided to tap them by launching the YouTube channel on Nathuram Godse. The channel will tell people about the reasons behind Gandhis assassination. It will also tell them about the good work done by Godse." Several saffron outfits, including the Mahasabha, hail Godse as their hero and have been trying to glorify him for decades. Meanwhile, Congress Legislature Party leader Aradhana Mishra said that this was another attempt by some Hindu outfits to demolish Gandhis ideology and sully his image by glorifying Godse". Gandhis ideology runs in the DNA of India and its people. Efforts to glorify the likes of Godse will never succeed and the ruling party should rein in such elements," she added. The announcement comes days after Gandhis 151st birth anniversary on October 2 when many were surprised to find his assassin Godse trending on Twitter. Many took to the microblogging site to call out the trends such as Nathuram Godse Zindabad". Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said, We know who has enabled this trend & whose face is hypocritically masked. I have no doubt Gandhis India will prevail over Godses. On January 30, 1948, Nathuram Vinayak Godse, a Hindu extremist, and political activist, shot Gandhi three times in the chest at point-blank range. Godse, who was once a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and Hindu Mahasabha, was sentenced to death on November 8, 1949, after a year of explosive court hearings. He was hanged on November 15 of the same year. While Godses act has been widely criticized by the world, many have time and again cited Godse in a fair light, including BJP MP Pragya Thakur who in 2019 raised hell after referring to the assassin as deshbhakt. (With inputs from PTI) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Eisya A. Eloksari (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, October 5, 2020 18:14 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c493846c 1 Business SME,Communications-and-Information-Ministry,idEA,Trade-Ministry,digitalization,priority-tourist-destinations Free The government is joining hands with e-commerce players and tech firms to provide training for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to boost digital inclusion among small businesses and to improve their skills amid the COVID-19 crisis. The Communications and Information Ministry announced on Monday a partnership with the Indonesian E-commerce Association (IdEA) to roll out online classes for 2,500 SMEs from Oct. 5 to Dec. 12. Communications and Information Minister Johnny G. Plate said the program was aimed at SMEs outside of Java, particularly those in the outermost, frontier and the least developed (3T) regions and those located in the countrys five priority tourism destinations, including Borobudur in Central Java, Mandalika in West Nusa Tenggara, and Lake Toba in North Sumatra. Weve seen that the successful cases of SME digitalization mostly occur on Java island. So, we want the same success for SMEs all around the nation, he said at the program launch. We also want to see those already on the digital platforms upscaling their businesses. He went on to say that around 9.4 million SMEs had gone online to date, closing in on the governments target of having 10 million SMEs going digital by the end of the year. Indonesias economy relies heavily on small businesses, which account for more than 60 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) and employ a majority of the labor force. The small businesses have been hit hard by the COVID-19 outbreak, as the economy shrank by 5.32 percent year-on-year (yoy) in the second quarter of this year. A Mandiri Institute study shows that digitalized micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can help Indonesia significantly reduce the GDP impact of the pandemic. The study also found that MSMEs that have an online presence are more resilient, as they are more likely to continue producing and selling goods and to have a longer runway to survive the health crisis. IdEA chairman Bima Laga said that participants could join 60 classes such as digital branding, soft skill development and business financing. After the training, we would like to also track their sales to see if there is any increase, he said. We hope that the participants can have greater digital literacy and improve their livelihood. The Communications and Information Ministry accessibility agency director, Anang Latif, said that the program would take in 6,500 applicants for the first phase. If the current participants businesses showed an improvement, the second batch would be in the pipeline for next year, he added. Going digital is inevitable. We want SMEs to know how to utilize online platforms to prepare themselves for the 5G era when the internet connection will serve them better, he said. Read also: Govt bootcamp to prep 30 startups to give SMEs a digital leg up Earlier last week, the Trade Ministry also announced its partnership with social media giant Facebook to open online classes and a shopping festival for SMEs between October this year and January 2021. Through the collaboration, the local SMEs are expected to attain new skills and knowledge to survive, grow and expand their markets through online platforms like Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, Trade Minister Agus Suparmanto said in a statement on Oct. 3. During the event, the ministry and Facebook will hold online classes on how to utilize Facebook and Instagram for businesses, as well as an online bazaar via Instagram, among other events. We acknowledge that adopting digital platforms is not easy as there are still many groups of people that have not been able to maximize digital services usage. That is why weve launched this program to help accelerate the SMEs digital transformation, Facebook Indonesia public policy head Ruben Hattari said. Why virtual SIM cards are a headache for security agencies India oi-Vicky Nanjappa Srinagar, Oct 05: Virtual SIM cards pose a new headache for security agencies fighting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir as their use in the valley has seen an increase among terror groups to connect with their handlers in Pakistan, officials said here. The penetration of this new technology was found in 2019 when a request was sent to the United States to seek details from a service provider of "virtual SIMs" used by suicide bomber of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group involved in the Pulwama attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead. However, a detailed investigation done by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other security agencies indicated that over 40 virtual SIM cards were used in the Pulwama attack alone, and there are probably more of them floating in the cyberspace of the valley, the officials said. Kashmir separatists sent scores of youth on valid documents to Pak for terror training: NIA It is a fairly new modus operandi wherein terrorists across the border are using "virtual SIM" cards, generated by a service provider from a foreign country. In this technology, the computer generates a telephone number and the user downloads an application of the service provider on their smartphone. The number is linked to social networking sites like WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram or Twitter. The verification code for activating the service is generated by these networking sites and received on the smartphone. The officials said the numbers used were pre-fixed with a country code or Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number (MSISDN) number. They said that, besides telecom companies in the US, Canada, the UK, Israel, numbers of Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island being controlled by the US, are doing the rounds in the market. Every mobile phone instrument is sent for a detailed forensic analysis to have a thorough check to look for any telltale signs of use of virtual SIM cards, the officials said. Technology has its pros and cons, and while fighting terrorism, the security agencies have to not only keep up the pace but also move a step ahead of those planning to misuse it, says an official. The risk of forging identities during purchase of virtual SIM cards also runs high. JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News During investigation of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, it was found that an amount of USD 229 was wired to Callphonex, via Western Union Money Transfer receipt number 8364307716-0, for activating the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) used during the strikes. The money was received from 'Madina Trading' located in Brescia in Italy and sender was claimed to be Javed Iqbal, a resident of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Terror financing: ED files charge sheet against Hafiz Saeed, Pak associate among others However, after Italian police arrested two Pakistani nationals in 2009, it was alleged that the firm had made nearly 300 transfers in the name of Iqbal, who probably had never set his foot in Italy. The Italian police, while concluding the probe, had said the Brescia-based company made several transfers using the identity of innocent, unsuspecting persons, whose identity cards or passports might have been stolen. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 9:38 [IST] Figure 1: Medicine Springs Location Figure 1: Medicine Springs Location Figure 1: Medicine Springs Location Figure 2: Carbonate Replacement Deposit Model for Medicine Springs Figure 2: Carbonate Replacement Deposit Model for Medicine Springs Figure 2: Carbonate Replacement Deposit Model for Medicine Springs Figure 3: NLR Exploration Results Medicine Springs Figure 3: NLR Exploration Results Medicine Springs Figure 3: NLR Exploration Results Medicine Springs NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES TORONTO and HONG KONG, Oct. 05, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (Reyna or RSLV) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Property Option Agreement with Northern Lights Resources Corp. (NLR) on the Medicine Springs silver-lead-zinc project (the Medicine Springs Project) located in Elko County, Nevada. The Medicine Springs Project comprises 149 unpatented Federal mineral claims covering 1,189 hectares located in the Ruby Mountains Valley just off the famous Carlin Trend. The Agreement gives Reyna the ability to earn up to an 80% equity interest in the Project (initial 75% with option to purchase an additional 5%) (the Option) subject to expending a total of US$2,439,065 on the Project by December 31, 2023. Upon completion of the Option, Northern Lights and Reyna will enter a Joint Venture to continue exploration and development of the Medicine Springs Project, with Reyna acting as the projects operator. No upfront payments in either cash or shares are due to either NLR or any other party. See below for the detailed terms. While Reyna Silvers main focus will continue to be our flagship Guigui asset, for which we are awaiting permits to commence a 10,000 meter drill campaign this fall, we are delighted to add Medicine Springs to our portfolio of assets, said Jorge Ramiro Monroy, President and CEO. Medicine Springs is a Guigui-like CRD system with high-grade silver potential, which lies in Nevadas CRD elephant country and we are eager to begin applying the same exploration model that led to Arizona Minings Taylor Manto and MAG Silvers Cinco de Mayo discoveries. The Northern Lights team has done an excellent job developing the project to its current near-drill ready stage, which lets us hit the ground running. Story continues "Figure 1: Medicine Springs Location" is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6669eecf-7969-4d08-8495-284a455679fa "Figure 2: Carbonate Replacement Deposit Model for Medicine Springs" is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5b835479-ba68-435c-9e1d-ee4d62bb9525 The Medicine Springs Project The world-famous Carlin Trend runs just east of the Medicine Springs area and prior to acquisition by NLR in 2017, the area was explored for Carlin-style gold potential from 1986-2008 by companies including, US Minerals Exploration, Golden Phoenix, Cominco America and Silver Resources. This exploration work included mapping, sampling, geophysics (CSAMT and IP) and shallow RC drilling. A total of 125 RC holes were drilled on the Project claims (5,380 m with average depth of 43 m, with the deepest hole being 180 m). Limited gold mineralization was found, but significant silver-rich mineralization was cut in several holes including: 33 m @ 90 g/t Ag (DH JS-67), 15 m @ 82 g/t Ag including, 7.6 m @ 138 g/t Ag (DH RMR-1), 44 m @ 69 g/t Ag including, 6 m @ 225 g/t Ag (DH RMR-2). Most of the mineralization was thoroughly oxidized, although some unoxidized sulfides were encountered in a few deep holes. NLR recognized that the silver-lead-zinc mineralization might indicate the presence at depth of a Carbonate Replacement Deposit (CRD), several of which are known in the area. In 2018, NLR undertook surface mapping combined with an extensive rock sampling program. A total of 66 samples were collected with 27 samples assaying greater than 20 g/t Ag; 17 samples exceeding 100 g/t Ag and a maximum silver value of 559 g/t. In 2019, NLR completed a 794-sample ionic-leach soil geochemistry survey on the Project that defined a strong coherent NE trending silver-lead-zinc anomaly which measures more than 2,000 m in length and ranges up to 500 m in width. This anomaly closely follows the structural fabric of the district, which is defined by NE-trending faults, mineralized veins, dykes and breccia bodies. "Figure 3: NLR Exploration Results Medicine Springs" is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/73c0e126-3aab-4ac6-9802-c476f5e3a2de The Medicine Springs Project is permitted for at least 4,900 m and is close to being drill-ready. Reyna Silver intends to start work on the property immediately and evaluate the permitted drilling campaign prepared by NLR, as well as determine additional work required in line with Reynas philosophy of looking for District Scale projects. Key Terms of the Property Option and Joint Venture Agreement NLR is currently earning a 100% interest in the Medicine Springs Project under the terms of an option agreement with the underlying claim owners executed August 20, 2017 (NLR 2017 Option Agreement). Reyna will assume NLRs obligations for making cash payments to the property owners (other than $50,000 to be paid by NLR), and for incurring the remaining expenditures on the Project. NLR will retain responsibility for the issuance of US$200,000 of NLR shares. Any mineral claims acquired by either Reyna within five miles of the outer boundaries of the Project will form part of the Project, and the costs of acquiring and exploring those additional claims will qualify as expenditures under the NLR 2017 Option Agreement. Upon Reyna exercising its Option, a joint venture will be formed (75% Reyna, 25% NLR). Reyna can acquire an additional 5% of the Medicine Springs Project by paying NLR US$1,000,000 at any time. NLR will have a carried interest in the joint venture until Reyna incurs an aggregate of US$4,000,000 of expenditures on the Project, following which NLR will be responsible for its pro-rata share of costs going forward. All work programs and budgets will be determined by a committee comprised of one member of NLR and two or more members of Reyna. The technical data contained in this news release was reviewed and approved by Dr. Peter Megaw, who is responsible for ensuring that the geologic information provided in this news release is accurate and who acts as a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Please see the Companys website for additional information regarding the Medicine Springs Project. On Behalf of the Board of Directors of Reyna Silver Corp. Jorge Ramiro Monroy Chief Executive Officer For Further Information, Please Contact: Reyna Silver Corp. Jorge Ramiro Monroy, Chief Executive Officer info@reynasilver.com www.reynasilver.com About Reyna Silver Corp. Reyna Silver Corp. is a silver exploration company with a robust portfolio of Mexican silver assets. The Company was built around the Guigui and Batopilas Projects, which formed part of MAG Silvers original IPO portfolio. Reynas strategy centers around leveraging its expertise in Mexico to explore projects that have the potential for high-grade, district-scale discoveries. 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. About Northern Lights Resources Corp. Northern Lights Resources Corp is a growth-oriented exploration and development company that is advancing two projects: The 100% owned, Secret Pass Gold Project located in Arizona; and the Medicine Springs silver-zinc-lead property located in Elko County Nevada where Northern Lights is earning 100%. Northern Lights Resources trades under the ticker of NLR on the CSE. This and other Northern Lights Resources news releases can be viewed at www.sedar.com and www.northernlightsresources.com. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release includes certain forward-looking statements under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the terms and conditions of the proposed private placement; use of funds; the business and operations of the Company after the proposed closing of the Offering. 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 the 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: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; delay or failure to receive board, shareholder or regulatory approvals; and the uncertainties surrounding the mineral exploration industry. 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. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints President Russell M. Nelson speaks during the opening of the 190th Semiannual General Conference at the Conference Center Theater on Temple Square in Salt Lake City. The twice-annual conference kicked off Saturday without anyone attending in person and top leaders sitting some 6-feet apart inside an empty room as the faith takes precautions to avoid the spread of the coronavirus. A livestream of the conference showed a few of the faith's top leaders sitting alone inside a small auditorium in Salt Lake City, Normally, top leaders sit side-by-side on stage with the religion's well-known choir behind them and some 20,000 people watching. Read more SALT LAKE CITY The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' president issued another plea for members to help end racism, saying Sunday at the faiths signature conference that God loves people of all races equally and that it pains him to see Black people suffer prejudice. Russell M. Nelson's comments followed similar speeches by other top leaders Saturday at the conference that comes as many members live through a reckoning over racial injustice, especially in the U.S. following the May police killing of Black man George Floyd. God does not love one race more than another. His doctrine on this matter is clear, Nelson said. I assure you that your standing before God is not determined by the color of your skin." Members believe church presidents are living prophets who receive revelations from God. Like the leaders who spoke on Saturday, Nelson didn't mention the churchs past ban on Black men in the lay priesthood. The prohibition which stood until 1978 was rooted in the belief that black skin was a curse. It remains one of the most sensitive topics in the faith's history. The church disavowed the ban and the reasons behind it in a 2013 essay but has never issued a formal apology a necessary step for some members. The Utah-based religion known widely as the Mormon church doesnt provide ethnic or racial breakdowns of its 16.6 million members but scholars say Black followers make up a small portion of adherents. None of the 15 men who will sit on the faith's top leadership panels are Black. Church leadership did become more diverse in 2018 when it sent to the previously all-white Quorum of the Twelve Apostles its first-ever apostles of Latin American and Asian descent. This weekends twice-yearly conference is the second one held this year without an audience. Since becoming president in 2018, the 96-year-old Nelson has called for racial harmony and launched a formal partnership with the NAACP. I grieve that our Black brothers and sisters the world over are enduring the pains of racism and prejudice, Nelson said. Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 5) Decades-old laws requiring legislative franchises and limiting the entry of foreign internet service providers has hampered connectivity in the country, leaving 57 percent of households without internet access, the World Bank said. In its latest report, the World Bank said the digital divide in the Philippines remains huge as about 40 percent of the population do not have internet access as of 2018. "Upgrading digital infrastructure all over the country will introduce fundamental changes that can improve social service delivery, enhance resilience against shocks, and create more economic opportunities for all Filipinos," World Bank country director Ndiame Diop said in a Monday briefing. This divide is more pronounced with the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced people to turn to online solutions to limit possible infections. However, few have the capacity for e-payments as millions remain unbanked due to the cost of maintaining a formal account and lacking IDs and requirements. READ: As COVID-19 forces life to move online, who is left behind? Undersecretary Rosemarie Edillon of the National Economic and Development Authority said the government is targeting to start pre-registration for the national ID system by October 12, with the goal of having as much as 9 million people on their database by yearend. Of them, 5 million heads of households should have completed registration by showing up in registration centers to provide biometrics. The World Bank said the national ID is crucial to increased digital payments amid the coronavirus crisis. For better connections, the Philippines must also upgrade digital infrastructure, improve logistics, and promote a more business-friendly environment. The Philippines should move away from the telecommunications duopoly, World Bank economist Kevin Chua said, but pointed out that regulatory constraints limit the entry of new players. "The requirement for a Congressional franchise to build a 'network' also disincentivizes small, regional or community-based players from participating in the broadband networks," the World Bank said in its Philippines Digital Economy Report 2020, pointing out that foreign ownership limits hold back developments in the industry. RELATED: More investments needed to upgrade PH internet services Converge "The multiple permits and licenses required to deploy networks in urban and rural areas, alongside the fees imposed by several national government agencies, local government units, and private property management such as homeowners associations, have hindered the speedier installations of towers and stations as well," it added. Chua said telco providers should be allowed to operate by securing a license from a regulatory agency rather than go through Congress, where two separate approval processes are required before the House and Senate and then signed into law by the President. Meanwhile, connectivity remains dismal among Filipinos who have internet access even if they pay more compared to rates in other Southeast Asian states. Download speeds are just at 16.76 Megabits per second (Mbps) on average, half the global standard of 32.01 Mbps. The country is also dominated by 3G connections, which are slower than the current 4G or LTE and the emerging 5G technology. The 3G and 4G speeds offer an average 7 Mbps, while fixed broadband which provides faster and more stable connections are only available to just 4 percent of the population. Most Filipinos connect through mobile data. These connection woes are likely a stumbling block as more than 22 million public school students shift to blended learning starting October 5, as poor internet connections could stand in the way of learning. The national government should also "lead by example" on digital transformation by making its processes efficient and accessible online, Diop said. DALLAS, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Securus Technologies is proud to announce the company will be donating fifty percent of proceeds from the company's "Fight Against Breast Cancer" suite of eCards to the American Cancer Society (ACS) to help in the fight against a disease that takes thousands of lives each year. According to cancer.org, breast cancer death rates in the U.S. are higher than those for women than any other cancer, besides lung cancer. Donating financial support to the ACS will help to fund and conduct cancer research, support patients and spread the word about prevention. The cost to attach an eCard to an email is one Stamp, and the proceeds from all the Stamps used in the month of October for the "Fight Against Breast Cancer" eCard category will be donated to the ACS. Incarcerated individuals along with their loved ones in almost 40 states can purchase and attach any of the 20 customer-crafted greeting cards celebrating hope for breast cancer survivors and all those touched by the disease. "Too many mothers, daughters, sisters and friends are battling this disease it has to stop," said Jade Trombetta, Senior Manager, Communications and Social Media for Securus Technologies. "We have proudly supported this cause for years and thank all other organizations and individuals who prominently wear pink and support the fight against breast cancer during the month of October, and throughout the year. Together we can beat this." "We envision a future where our daughters our children will no longer live with the threat of breast cancer," said the National Leadership Team for the American Cancer Society. "Unfortunately, that future is at risk. The impact of COVID-19 will reduce our ability to fund cancer research by 50% in 2020 --our lowest investment this century if current trends continue. We can't and won't allow progress to be put on hold because of COVID-19. At risk are more and better treatments and discoveries that will improve and save lives." ABOUT SECURUS TECHNOLOGIES Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Securus Technologies, a subsidiary of Aventiv Technologies, serves more than 3,450 public safety, law enforcement and corrections agencies and over 1,100,000 incarcerated individuals across North America. The Aventiv organization is committed to providing emergency response, incident management, public information, investigation, biometric analysis, communication, information management, incarcerated self-service, and monitoring products and services in order to make our world a safer place to live. For more information, please visit www.Aventiv.com. Aventiv is a portfolio company of Platinum Equity. Founded in 1995 by Tom Gores, Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with a portfolio of approximately 40 operating companies that serve customers around the world. ABOUT THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of nearly 1.5 million volunteers dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer. From breakthrough research, to free lodging near treatment, a 24/7/365 live helpline, free rides to treatment, and convening powerful activists to create awareness and impact, the American Cancer Society is attacking cancer from every angle. Visit cancer.org for more information. SOURCE Securus Technologies Business conglomerate Shapoorji Pallonjis mid-income housing platform Joyville will invest around 1,200 crore to develop a new residential project in Pune, a top company official said. Joyville is a USD 200 million platform by Shapoorji Pallonji Group, ADB, IFC and Actis to develop aspirational housing projects in India. This is the fifth project of Joyville and second in Pune property market. Shapoorji Pallonji on Monday launched a 21 acre housing project in east Pune. The project Joyville Hadapsar Annexe will be developed in phases, with the first one comprising 600 units to be sold at 37.5 lakh onwards. The total units in this project will be more than 2,700. This is the second residential project in Pune under Joyville brand. Joyville Hinjawadi (West Pune) was launched in 2018 and is completely sold out. Pune is a very important market for us with a demand for quality aspirational homes by trusted brands. After success of our project in Hinjawadi (west Pune), now we have launched our new project in east Pune wherein we realise that there exists a demand for the same, Sriram Mahadevan, MD of Joyville Shapoorji Housing, told PTI. When asked about the project cost, he said the estimated cost of this new housing project is around 1,200 crore. We have been noticing that over the past few years, there is a flight to quality by customers and COVID-19 has hastened the process further. Customers are looking forward to quality and trusted brands for reposing their faith for home purchase, Mahadevan said. We are confident that Shapoorji Pallonji with more than 155 years of legacy would surely meet and possibly exceed their expectations in term of the product offering in the newest launch, he added. The eligible homebuyers can also avail the PMAY benefit up to of 2.67 lakh under the Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) on selected apartments. Despite COVID-19, Mahadevan said the company has already started the handover process of phase 1 at Joyville Howrah (near Kolkata) as per the timeline. It is planning to start the handover process of phase 1 at Joyville Virar (near Mumbai) before time. The construction works are on at Joyville Hinjawadi (west Pune) and Joyville Gurugram (sector 102) and expected to be completed as per the timeline. Housing demand was impacted severely during April-June due to lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus. However, sales have improved during the July-September period and is expected to further rise in the October-December quarter because of festival season and various incentives offered by builders. The demand is getting consolidated towards big corporate brands and developers having better track record of execution. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON 05.10.2020 LISTEN The Wa Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Issahaku Moomin Tahiru, has assured children in the municipality that he will give a facelift to the Childrens Park in the municipality, including sanitation facilities, to meet international standard. He said other issues related to security at the childrens playground would also be attended to help prevent unscrupulous activities at the place. Mr Moomin gave the assurance on Monday when the leadership of the Upper West Regional Childrens Parliament, led by the Speaker, called on him. The visit was to inform the MCE of the pertinent challenges facing children in the municipality including the current deplorable state of the Childrens Park for redress. He said he is in talks with Rotary Ghana to see the possibility of upgrading the childrens playground and to fix the equipment and facilities to meet international standard. Mr Moomin added that the municipality was considering constructing a youth resource centre to enable the youth in the municipality to have access to modern learning facilities. Mr Moomin advised the children to be very respectful, obedient, hardworking and diligent anywhere they found themselves. He said there is no short-cut in life, every achievement in life is backed by diligence and perseverance, without which they cannot get what they want. The Speaker of the Parliament, Ms Zakia Ibrahim said the parliament relied on benevolent organisations and individuals for support to run its activities and appealed to the MCE to support them. She explained that the objective of the Childrens Parliament was to see change in society that could inure to the holistic development of children in the region and beyond. Ms Ibrahim identified child labour, streetism, drug abuse, child marriage and teenage pregnancy as some of the issues militating against the development of children, and called for concerted efforts of all stakeholders to end them. Other issues they touched on included education and security. Maharashtra: Mumbai's fisherfolk, already facing low income, fear losing boat parking space to Coastal Road Project October 05,2020 | Source: First Post The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's ambitious Coastal Road project has affected the livelihood of the small and artisanal fisherfolk in Mumbais Worli area with fishers claiming not just an exponential fall in catch, but also fishing equipment worth lakhs being damaged since reclamation work began in the area in 2018. The community now fears further loss of livelihood with the proposed reclamation of the Lotus Jetty near the Haji Ali Mosque in Worli as part of the Coastal Road project, damaging not just the delicate ecosystem of Worli's shoreline, but also taking away the boat parking space available to them in the area. The Lotus Jetty is one of the largest spaces for Mumbais small and artisanal fisherfolk to dock their boats. It is currently used by over 100 fishermen. Locals say the reclamation work that has been undertaken in the last two years has already destroyed the inter-tidal pools that are rich in marine life. The noise from the heavy machinery too has driven the fish away from the area, they add. They want a parking space for their coastal road, but what about our parking space? Does our profession have no value?" asks Sanjay Baikar, secretary of Vanchit Machhimar Haji Ali Sahkari Sangathana Maryadit, an association of the fisherfolk living between Worli and Walkeshwar. "This project has caused massive damage to our livelihood and is a threat to our way of life," adds Bhaikar. Local fishers said that on 30 August, supervisors affiliated to the civic body arrived at the Lotus Jetty and asked them to remove their boats, as reclamation was set to begin. The locals claimed that the authorities hadnt served any prior notice, and alleged that the verbal instruction was followed by threats and abuses. Sixty-year-old Jais Khambal, a member of the association, says that the Lotus Jetty is the only space left for fishers in the area to dock their boats. Khambal informs that he started docking his boat at the Lotus Jetty after reclamation work began near his residence in Priyadarshini Park. "We will have no way to earn a livelihood if this jetty gets reclaimed as well, he says. The United Nations defines small and artisanal fishing as, traditional fisheries involving fishing households (as opposed to commercial companies), using relatively small amount of capital and energy, relatively small fishing vessels (if any), making short fishing trips, close to shore, and mainly for local consumption. Many of the fishers using the jetty in Worli are third-generation fishers to take up the profession while others have been fishing for over four decades now. For them, fishing is the primary source of livelihood, and most of those who venture out on the sea are sole earners in their families. Waiting for the chief minister's reply Members of the fisher community are angry as well feeling intimidated by the Coastal Road project. They have rallied against the coastal road project under the Vanchit Machhimar Haji Ali Sahkari Sangathana Maryadit and have been demanding from the government to stop the Coastal Road project as it's impeding their source of income. The association, which represents over 600 people, including the fishers families, has written to Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray several times, seeking an audience to discuss their grievances regarding the project. However, they say that they are yet to receive a reply from the chief minister. Fishing equipment worth over Rs 20 lakh damaged, say locals The ongoing reclamation work is in the immediate vicinity of the Lotus Jetty, and the fisherfolk are incurring losses worth lakhs of rupees as their engine-powered boats, dinghies, and nets are damaged in the process. In June, 25-year-old Salman Sayyed lost an engine-powered boat worth more than a lakh due to reclamation work at the jetty. With 10 dependents in his family, he and his younger brother are the sole earners. They (BMC field officers) gave me an hours notice to remove my boat from the jetty. I had agreed to, but they buried the boat under rocks despite that, he alleged. Now Sayyed is left with just a dinghy. Locals say that while an engine-powered boat can venture at least 15 kilometres into the sea, the capacity of a dinghy is drastically lower. At best, it can cover a kilometre. Fifty-five-year-old Palaniswami also recounts a similar experience from two weeks ago. They broke my engine boat, with only a days notice to remove it from the jetty. It seems like they destroy the boats in the night, when no one is around, he alleges. Another resident of the area, Alauddin Khan, gives an overall figure of the financial losses the community has seen so far. At least seven-eight such boats have been broken since 2018, and countless nets have been damaged. Overall, the fishers in the area have borne losses worth Rs 20-25 lakh, says Khan. BMC denies asking fishers to clear Lotus Jetty Meanwhile, the BMC has denied any knowledge of having issued any order instructing the fishers to clear the Lotus Jetty. Niranjan Khanolkar, chief engineer in the BMCs Coastal Road Department, said, Our office is not aware of any such action. Sometimes a contractor or a supervisor might give such instructions for technical reasons or on a temporary basis. The proposed 30-kilometre-long coastal road aims to decongest existing arterial roads in Mumbai by connecting south Mumbai to the northern suburb of Kandivali. The first phase of the plan includes bridges on stilts, an underwater tunnel, and road segments between Marine Drive and Worli. The 9.9-kilometre road will ultimately join the Bandra-Worli Sea Link.While the government is justifying its plan to reclaim at least 100 acres of land as a way to develop the citys infrastructure, the adverse effects of the project on the local fishing communitys livelihood are concrete and manifold. Locals face loss in income Many fishers said they are facing a severe shortage in their catch due to the disturbance caused to the coastal marine ecosystem. On 2 September, Kamlesh Soni set out with three other boat-mates at 5.45 am. In over four hours, Soni said they had managed to catch fish worth only Rs 100-250 in total, which he split with the others. In a week, I earn Rs 2,000 while the diesel costs Rs 3,000. Even though we go fishing every day, how will we sustain ourselves with such little produce? Earlier, we could yield a good catch with one or two nets, but now we need 10 nets to catch the same amount of fish, he says. Locals say that there has been a significant reduction in their familys monthly income due to the effects of the reclamation work. A lot of them are also incurring debts of over a lakh. Since 2018, our incomes have been reducing. We used to earn between Rs 15,000-30,000 in a month, but now we are barely earning between Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000, Baikar says. Fishbait and other small creatures are our last resort to make ends meet, he adds. Pooja Filed Complaint With Goa Police Cyber Cell Pooja Bedi's tweet read, "Dear @DGP_Goa my ecommerce website http://happysoul.in HACKED AGAIN last night & this time they state if i don't pay ransom they will sell DRUGS on my website. I have registered (an) FIR in Old Goa Police Cyber Cell last week but no action from Cops. My company regd in Goa @goacm." Hackers Have Threatened To Sell Drugs Pooja also shared another tweet in which she tagged the website hosting company GoDaddy. She wrote, "Dear @GoDaddyHelp your team is NOT cooperating with our team for my hacked e-commerce website http://happysoul.in Despite my deluxe security on your server & SSL the hacker hacked AGAIN yesterday made ransom demands threatening 2 sell my data & sell DRUGS on my site." Hackers Have Asked For A Ransom Of 1.5 lakh Pooja also shared a snapshot of the email which reads, "website hacked again." It also said, if Pooja didn't pay the money, they will hack all her vendors as well. The hackers have demanded to be paid 0.2 BTC (Bitcoins), which is approximately Rs 1.5 lakh. This is the shocking moment a male bus passenger kicks a teenage girl in the face after 'racially abusing her' for not wearing a mask - before a man in a suit intervenes and stamps on him in retaliation. Footage shows a middle-aged couple and the 16-year-old having a furious row over her not wearing a covering on packed public transport. But their argument escalates into a fight and the man brutally kicks the teen in the head on the number 79 in Moxley, West Midlands. Another passenger is forced to intervene, tackling the man and stamping on his head in retaliation. It is not clear who filmed the clip, but it appears to be a fellow passenger, and has been widely viewed by shocked social media users. Footage shows a middle-aged couple (pictured) and the 16-year-old have a furious row over her not wearing a covering on packed public transport The footage starts as the couple starts a blazing row with the girl for not wearing a mask amid the coronavirus pandemic. The man yells at her: 'All I'm saying is put your mask on! I'm not being racist but the virus is more common in black and Asians. Put your f**king mask on.' The teenage girl replies but is shouted down by the woman who says: 'Why do I have to come on the bus and put up with you sitting next to us with no mask on?' The three passengers continue arguing with each other and the man says the girl is more likely to kill people by not putting a mask on. The woman also shouts: 'You can't be spreading something if you got it and spreading it around people!' She adds: 'If you weren't 16 years old I would knock you the f**k out.' Other young passengers dare the woman to fight her while others plead with them to calm down. Some demand the couple get off the bus and as they do the man turns back and kicks the teenager in the face. Images of a man West Midlands Police want to speak to urgently after a teenager was racially abused and attacked on a bus in Hill Top, West Bromwich last week A male passenger jumps up and grabs the man and flings him backward down the bus. He says: 'What are you doing you piece of sh*t? I will f**king murder you.' He then stamps on the man's head before shoving the couple off the bus during the October 1 incident. A West Midlands Police spokesman shared a still from the CCTV footage along with a statement reading: 'Do you recognise this man? Another passenger is forced to intervene, tackling the man and stamping on his head in retaliation 'We want to speak with him urgently after a teenager was racially abused and attacked on a bus in Hill Top, West Bromwich last week. 'An argument broke out on the 79 bus in Moxley at around 5.40pm on 1 October, before a fellow passenger racially abused the 16-year-old and kicked her. 'We have spoken to the girl, and are examining mobile phone footage which has been shared on social media. 'We take racially aggravated crimes extremely seriously, and our enquiries continue. 'Anyone with information has been asked to get in touch with us via Live Chat, 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Quote 20SW/240154T/20.' White House physician Sean Conley (R) gives an update on the condition of US President Donald Trump, on October 3, 2020, at Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Brendan Smialowski | AFP | Getty Images President Donald Trump's doctors are using almost every drug in the Covid-19 arsenal to treat him, worrying some physicians that they might be going overboard because he is a VIP. Trump's team of doctors at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center said over the weekend that the president has taken Gilead's antiviral drug remdesivir, Regeneron's antibody cocktail and the steroid dexamethasone in the past few days to treat his case of coronavirus. The president could very well be the only Covid-19 patient to receive all three treatments, Dr. Leana Wen, former Baltimore health commissioner, said. She added it could be due to a medical phenomenon known as "VIP syndrome" in which the pressure to treat high-profile patients could lead to experimental treatments and potential errors. "Having worked at the ER, I've certainly treated a number of individuals who would be considered VIPs," said Wen, an emergency physician and public health professor at George Washington University. "These patients expect to receive the best treatment, but often that results in them becoming overtreated, and there is a risk to that." The newest drug given to Trump is Regeneron's experimental monoclonal antibody treatment, which has only been given to a few hundred patients in a clinical trial so far and has not yet been authorized by the Food and Drug Administration for use in any patients. Early last week, Regeneron said the treatment improved symptoms and reduced viral loads in nonhospitalized patients who have mild to moderate Covid-19. That was based on results for the first 275 nonhospitalized trial patients. But the average age of patients in that trial was 44, Regeneron said, far lower than the 74-year-old Trump. The company said it continues to test the drug for the treatment of hospitalized patients and for the prevention of infection in people who have been exposed to a patient. While antibody cocktails have long been used to treat other infectious diseases and doctors have seen them as a promising potential treatment for Covid-19, every drug has side effects, Wen said. She added that there's no research into how this drug interacts with the other treatments the president has received, which could raise more questions about how effective and safe the treatment regimen is. The use of the steroid dexamethasone raises questions as well. The cheap and widely available drug has been found in clinical trials to reduce the risk of death for severely sick Covid-19 patients. But it "may increase the risk of death when administered to patients with non-severe" cases of the disease, according to the World Health Organization. "There isn't a clear reason for us to believe that there is some untoward interaction that they have with one another," Wen said of the various treatments. "But it is a question to be raised: Do we want to be using experimental therapies on the president of the United States?" 'Maximizing' care Trump's physician, Dr. Sean Conley, vowed Saturday that he and his team are "maximizing all aspects of his care, attacking this virus in a multipronged approach." "This is the president and I didn't want to hold anything back," he added. "If there was any possibility that it would add value to his care and expedite his return, then I wanted to take it." Conley is treating the president along with a team of doctors at Walter Reed. But Wen pointed out that just as more drugs do not necessarily mean better care, more doctors do not always make for the best strategy. "VIPs usually have many doctors tending to their care, including many different specialists and people who would claim that they are the individual in charge of the patient's care," Wen said. "And so when you are attending to that patient, the coordination is rather challenging, too." Dr. Lewis Kaplan, president of the Society of Critical Care Medicine and a surgeon at the hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, said VIP syndrome occurs when "the usual process of care is derailed." It's difficult for him or any outside doctors to assess whether this is what's happening to Trump since some question whether the White House has accurately relayed information on his condition, Kaplan said. If Trump is severely sick, he said, perhaps the treatments make sense, but if the president is quickly recovering, he may have been overtreated. "This could mean he's a lot sicker than what has been portrayed or it could be that this is a judgment based upon him being the sitting head of state. We just don't know," he said, adding that "we don't really have any evidence for the melange of this particular brew. It may be perfect. It may not be right. We just don't know." Kaplan stressed the importance of well-designed clinical trials that produce hard data and evidence on the safety and efficacy of drugs. He added, however, that trials do not always reflect the real-world situation of treating a patient and that it's not uncommon for doctors to use drugs "off label." The use of drugs like Regeneron's antibody cocktail could be an extension of that kind of thinking, Kaplan said, adding that he doesn't think that's the best way to go about treatment. "It's risky," he said. "And if he's not that sick, or he's not in the ICU on lots of supplemental oxygen, he doesn't need to be mechanically ventilated, it makes you wonder why, because I don't understand." In 2005, a 17-year-old boy named William was fighting a brain tumor for the second time in two years. Rally Foundation founder and CEO Dean Crowe asked the teen's parents a simple question. "What can I do to help? And I will not make you dinner. This situation is so past dinner," he said. William's mother, Nancy Olson, replied, "Raise money for childhood cancer research and fund the best research, wherever it may be." Fast forward to 2020, and MUSC Hollings Cancer Center researcher Jezabel R. Blanco, Ph.D., pauses her research to take a Zoom call. She sees the faces of executives from the Rally Foundation and learns she has won a prestigious inaugural $300,000 research award. She is thrilled, as she is one of only two recipients in the country who will receive the Rally Career Development Award for Young Investigators. What really gives her chills, though, is who else is on the call. "The family of the child, the one who passed away from pediatric brain cancer and inspired the foundation to be created, was also on the call when I learned about winning this award," Blanco said. "It was breathtaking because this grant will fund research for the same type of tumor that took the life of their child." It was a deeply felt moment for Crowe as well, who described how special it was when he saw the final scores for the inaugural Rally Career Development Award and realized that Blanco had won for her research on medulloblastoma. "I felt like William was smiling down from heaven. It was very fitting. We are honored to be funding her cutting-edge research and believe that it will provide translational and clinical relevance for kids fighting medulloblastoma. We have high hopes for Dr. Blanco as an emerging thought leader in medulloblastoma." Pediatric brain cancer Blanco, who is originally from Spain, took a circuitous route to end up studying medulloblastoma, the most common of pediatric malignant brain tumors. It accounts for about 20% of all childhood brain tumors. Blanco was studying Parkinson's disease as a graduate student at the University of Oviedo in Spain. Then she sought additional training in neurosciences at Columbia University in New York and became a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Miami in Florida, where she studied the role that pathways play in controlling embryonic development in cancer. Through that research, she became interested in Sonic hedgehog signaling, a pathway not only implicated in controlling embryonic development but also in many cancer types, including brain tumors. As she began to explore more about the role of this signaling pathway in pediatric brain cancers, she realized she wanted to concentrate her efforts in this area and was drawn to the neuro-oncology program at MUSC Darby Children's Research Institute and Hollings Cancer Center. She came to MUSC in January as an assistant professor, studying pediatric brain tumors. Blanco said she's grateful for the Rally Foundation grant. Each year in the United States, between 250 and 500 children are found to have medulloblastoma. Blanco hopes her research will lead to treatments that can save the lives of these children. Survival rates in children with medulloblastoma depend on the patient's age and how much the tumor spreads, and children younger than the age of three often have lower survival rates because their disease tends to be more aggressive, she explained. Although most children with medulloblastoma are cured of their disease, those tumors classified as the Sonic hedgehog subgroup harboring mutations in P53, a tumor suppressor gene, tend to be particularly deadly. This tumor is resistant to the current standard of care, and most of the treatments are in clinical trials. Blanco is particularly focused on targeting the stem cell reservoir of these tumors, as these cells are likely behind chemotherapy resistance and tumor relapse. With this Rally Foundation grant, Blanco will further explore how the developmental pathway Sonic hedgehog gets activated in patients with mutations in the tumor suppressor P53 in medulloblastoma and further explore the drivers of the stem cells of these tumors. Her hope is that it might lead to targets for new drug treatments and be a catalyst for the development of new treatments for children diagnosed with this particular subtype. Blanco said it is so meaningful to meet the families that are affected by this disease. This commits her even more strongly to her mission of helping children. "My focus is on saving kids. The word 'cancer' is always scary, but when talking about pediatric cancer, it is a different story. The way the families are affected by pediatric cancer leaves me wordless," she said. Blanco explained that we need to find better treatments so that survival can go up to 100%. "We also have to make sure new treatments are not going to be that harsh on them," she said. "We are working on that -- targeted therapeutics should be the future for pediatric cancer patients. If my research can help just one kid, then it will be worth it to me. If I am able to develop a drug that is able to make a difference for one kid and family, it will be worth it." ### About MUSC Founded in 1824 in Charleston, MUSC is the oldest medical school in the South, as well as the state's only integrated, academic health sciences center with a unique charge to serve the state through education, research and patient care. Each year, MUSC educates and trains more than 3,000 students and nearly 800 residents in six colleges: Dental Medicine, Graduate Studies, Health Professions, Medicine, Nursing and Pharmacy. The state's leader in obtaining biomedical research funds, in fiscal year 2019, MUSC set a new high, bringing in more than $284 million. For information on academic programs, visit musc.edu. As the clinical health system of the Medical University of South Carolina, MUSC Health is dedicated to delivering the highest quality patient care available, while training generations of competent, compassionate health care providers to serve the people of South Carolina and beyond. Comprising some 1,600 beds, more than 100 outreach sites, the MUSC College of Medicine, the physicians' practice plan, and nearly 275 telehealth locations, MUSC Health owns and operates eight hospitals situated in Charleston, Chester, Florence, Lancaster and Marion counties. In 2019, for the fifth consecutive year, U.S. News & World Report named MUSC Health the No. 1 hospital in South Carolina. To learn more about clinical patient services, visit muschealth.org. MUSC and its affiliates have collective annual budgets of $3.2 billion. The more than 17,000 MUSC team members include world-class faculty, physicians, specialty providers and scientists who deliver groundbreaking education, research, technology and patient care. About MUSC Hollings Cancer Center MUSC Hollings Cancer Center is a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center and the largest academic-based cancer research program in South Carolina. The cancer center comprises more than 100 faculty cancer scientists and 20 academic departments. It has an annual research funding portfolio of more than $44 million and a dedication to reducing the cancer burden in South Carolina. Hollings offers state-of-the-art diagnostic capabilities, therapies and surgical techniques within multidisciplinary clinics that include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation therapists, radiologists, pathologists, psychologists and other specialists equipped for the full range of cancer care, including more than 200 clinical trials. For more information, visit http://www.hollingscancercenter.org. Hundreds packed the yard behind the Boston federal courthouse Monday afternoon protesting the flu vaccine mandate as the organizer, who challenged the Baker administrations the mask mandate, awaits a decision on his lawsuit from a federal judge. Here we are today 12,000 strong in Flu You Baker, said Vincent Delaney, the organizer of the protest and the man who filed a federal lawsuit against Gov. Charlie Baker over the mask mandate. We are a force to be reckoned with today, and Governor Baker is going to hear us loud and clear in the next two weeks. Delaney said the governors flu vaccine mandate, like the mask mandate, has never been about keeping people safe from infection. Its about control, he said. Its about our constitutional right to stand up and tell the governor he doesnt have the right to do what hes doing, Delaney said, drawing cheers from the crowd. A Facebook page under the name Flu You Baker was created to organize the protest. The Baker administration ordered flu shots for children age 6 months or older who attend a Massachusetts school, including pre-school, grade school and college. The mandate does include exemptions for medical and religious reasons, as well as an exemption for children being homeschooled. The flu shot mandate come as state officials push for schools to return to in-person instruction if theyre not in a high-risk COVID-19 community. In September, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education sent letters to more than a dozen schools in low-risk communities urging them to return to in-person learning. In the two weeks since, Massachusetts has seen a rise in COVID-19 cases. State health officials reported 626 new positive cases and three new coronavirus-related deaths on Sunday. The protesters crowded around the courthouse on the day of a hearing for Delaneys lawsuit challenging Bakers order requiring Massachusetts residents wear face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Protesters showed up with children in strollers and lawn chairs, holding signs that say parents call the shots and my child, my choice. Some wore masks, many didnt. Its the best civic lesson theyll ever learn, Delaney said of the parents who brought their children. Teena Graves and her friend, Tom Kahale, traveled from Oxford with hand-painted signs speaking out against the mandate. Graves, whose 20-year-old daughter has autism and is mostly nonverbal, believes her daughter was fine until she started taking multiple vaccinations. Were here for the good of the people, Kahale said. And my childs health, and my health, Graves added. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no link between vaccines and autism. The Lancet journal retracted a discredited 1998 study linking autism to the childhood MMR vaccine in 2010. Protesters said, however, they dont trust the ingredients in the flu vaccine and believe it doesnt work. They also argue the government has dismissed anecdotes of injuries and research alleging harmful side effects. Heather Sikora, a mother of two from Ashburnham, said she disagreed with any mandate that interferes with a parents decision over a childs health. Its about my right as a parent to make medical decisions for my family with our family physician, Sikora said. The government shouldnt overstep their bounds. I just feel passionate about medical freedom, said Sarah, who declined to give her last name. She traveled from Cape Cod to Bostons Seaport neighborhood to attend the protest. I just feel like the mandate, its just an overreach. Delaney said his attorneys are preparing a federal lawsuit against the flu vaccine mandate over the next couple of weeks. In the meantime, he says, hes awaiting a decision on his lawsuit challenging the mask mandate. I hope were victorious today, he said. No pressure. Related Content: Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 4) Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque shared a photo of himself relaxing on Boracay's famed white sands on Sunday, saying it has always been his "happy place." The Facebook post shows Roque sitting on the beach barefooted, wearing a blue rash guard and printed bottoms as he looked out to the water. The photo bore the caption: "(A)ng aking masayang lugar mula noon, hanggang ngayon." [Translation: My happy place from then until now.] Boracay began welcoming tourists again on Oct. 1, after months of closure due to the pandemic. Out of the 95 booked tourists expected to visit for the re-opening, only 26 arrived. Aklan Governor Florencio Miraflores told CNN Philippines it was "expected" due to strict restrictions the province has implemented in the popular destination, including a negative RT-PCR test result 48 hours prior to travel. Miraflores added that people are still afraid to travel because of the pandemic, that is why the provincial government is strictly implementing the minimum safety and health protocols Boracay has maintained a zero COVID-19 record since it opened its doors to tourists from the Western Visayas on June 16. Abigail Reardon, three, was 'backed over by a ride-on lawn mower' in late August She was staying at father's home in Rhode Island when the accident happened The incident resulted in five operations and her left foot being amputated Abigail's mother Sarah is now warning others about the danger of lawn mowers A mother has shared her distress after her three-year-old daughter lost her leg when running behind a reversing ride-on lawnmower in front of her six-year-old sister. Abigail Reardon was staying at her father's home in Rhode Island when she was 'backed over by a ride-on lawn mower' in a horrific accident - resulting in five operations and her left foot being amputated. ADVERTISEMENT The little girl was playing outside with her sister Alexa, six, on August 22 when the incident happened, and she was quickly rushed to Hasbro Childrens Hospital in Providence. Abigail's 'devastated' mother Sarah, from Massachusetts, admitted to television station WHDH that she was 'very, very grateful that it wasnt worse', and is now warning other parents to be aware of the dangers of lawnmowers. A mother has shared her distress after her three-year-old daughter (pictured) lost her leg when running behind a reversing ride-on lawnmower in front of her six-year-old sister Abigail Reardon (pictured with her sister and mother) was staying at her father's home in Rhode Island when she was 'backed over by a ride-on lawn mower' in a horrific accident - resulting in five operations and her left foot being amputated Sarah said: 'I am grieving and crushed, for what happened, but she is still my girl. She is still the same silly, goofy, happy little three-year-old and that personality just came back to life in the hospital. 'As devastated as I am by what happened to her, it was this weird mix of being very very grateful that it wasnt worse. It easily could have been.' Click here to resize this module Suggesting too many families treat lawnmowers like toys, Sarah added: 'If youre mowing, theres no need for them be outside playing especially around the lawnmower or tractor, and certainly dont give rides on it, it is a dangerous machine.' Sarah's friend Karen launched a crowd-fundraiser for Abigail, explaining that the little girl will need many prosthetic legs as she grows. The little girl was playing outside with her sister Alexa (pictured together), six, when the incident on August 22 happened, before being rushed to Hasbro Childrens Hospital in Providence Abigail's 'devastated' mother Sarah, from Massachusetts, admitted to television station WHDH that she was 'very very grateful that it wasnt worse'. Pictured: Alexa and Abigail Abigail is due for another surgery this week and will eventually be fitted for a prosthesis. Writing on GoFundMe, the friend said: 'Right now, it is overwhelming to process everything coming at this little girl and her family. 'Abigail has a very long journey ahead of further surgeries, potentially more plastic surgeries, lots of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counselling.' ADVERTISEMENT Proud mother Sarah also shared on the page that Abigail was improving and even walking around. Sarah (pictured with her daughter) is now warning other parents to be aware of the dangers of lawnmowers Abigail (pictured in hospital) is due for another surgery this week and will eventually be fitted for a prosthesis 'I still try to restrict her on some things but have let her test the waters. She is so proud when she achieves something new,' Sarah said. 'Todays victory was pulling herself up from a sitting position into her good leg.' But the mother admitted that her older daughter has been impacted by what she's witnessed, having seen the accident unfold. Sarah said: 'Alexa is doing OK since witnessing the accident, and has done well with the start of virtual school, but is very sensitive to the sound of lawnmowers, and struggling with separation anxiety and fear of death. 'Its a lot for a six-year-old to carry in her little mind,' she added. 'Ive been unable to line up counselling for her yet (thanks COVID) but still trying.' I didnt know her name. We hadnt spoken. We hadnt even met. And yet, the minute I saw her, I just knew. I knew wed be great mates. If I didnt know better, Id say this was friendship at first sight. But is that an actual social phenomenon, or a fallacy? Writer Gary Nunn and his friend Nat. Our initial meeting was after shed volunteered to be hypnotised at a show at my universitys student union. As soon as Nat strolled onto stage, I thought: Im going to make that woman my friend. WESTPORT Four days after threatening messages to President Donald Trump and law enforcement were posted downtown, police may have information on the alleged culprits. As of this writing, the investigative efforts of the Westport Police Department Detective Bureau have yielded information on two responsible parties, Anthony Prezioso, Westport police spokesperson, said in a news release Wednesday. On Sept. 27, police were contacted on the report of a number of paper fliers with threatening messages being spotted downtown. Some signs read, This town is ours. Kill Trump. Fight the white. Others said, The only good cop is a dead cop. On Tuesday, elected officials across the aisle as well as the leaders of the Republican Town Committee and Democratic Town Committee condemned the signs in a joint statement. As Chairs of the Westport Republican and Democratic Town Committees and elected leaders of Westport, we publicly and jointly denounce the hateful messaging that was discovered in town on Sunday morning, the statement reads. We believe that regardless of political affiliation or personal beliefs, there is no place for disrespect, hateful messaging or violence to express ones perspective. The statement was signed by DTC Chair Ellen Lautenberg, RTC Chair Joseph Sledge, First Selectman Jim Marpe, Second Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker and Third Selectwoman Melissa Kane. We hope that all Westport residents will do what they can to maintain civility both leading up to and beyond Election Day, it said. The investigation included close collaboration with federal law enforcement based on statements expressed in the postings, according to Prezioso. The Westport Police Department understands that this incident has caused a great deal of alarm and varying levels of concnern for many living within our community and with that in mind has been working diligently to identify the responsible individuals, he said. With this significant development residents should be assured there is currently no viable threat to the community, he said. At the present time this investigation remains open and active, and any additional developments relative to the case will be detailed at a later date, Prezioso said. dj.simmons@hearstmediact.com IDEMIA, biometric security solutions market leader, and Resa Airport Data Systems (RESA), a leading airport systems integrator, will join forces to supply Lyon Saint-Exupery airport operator Vinci Airports a contactless solution that runs exclusively on passenger biometric data from registration right through to aircraft boarding. Facial recognition technology coupled with latest-generation automatic gates provides for a smooth, seamless and secure airport experience that factors in current social distancing requirements. A one-year trial will be conducted starting October 15, 2020 for inter EU flights. Passengers departing from Lyon Saint-Exupery Airport to Portugal on TAP and Transavia flights will be first to enjoy this contactless option. A world first, remote smartphone-based passenger biometric registration gives passengers a smoother and contactless experience from ID registration until they board. Passenger faces a genuine Open Sesame throughout the airport are recorded at home on Mona, Lyon Airport's smartphone app. Having registered in advance, passengers can put their travel documents away as they pass unhindered through the airport. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201005005759/en/ (Photo: Business Wire) Passenger registration is secured by a biometric match between their smartphone-based face and scans of their ID document and boarding card. This totally accurate and reliable identity management system that IDEMIA has perfected lets passengers speed through all identity control points. RESA's latest automatic and biometric compact gate dubbed Major eGate, which caters for disabled people too, comes with an integrated camera so that passengers can pass through to the security restricted area and then board their plane based merely on facial recognition. IDEMIA's system is universal, secure and works on all airline systems thanks to RESA's IATA-certified CUPPS system. This will be available at Lyon Airport for Transavia and TAP flights to Portugal. While this new service is subject to formal CNIL1 approval, to date CNIL has recommended it to safeguard passenger data and rights. IDEMIA Executive VP Identity and Public Safety Philippe Barreau said: "As biometric security solutions expert, we are thrilled to deliver a world first alongside our customers Vinci Airports and Lyon Airport and our partner RESA. This trial harnesses contactless biometric technology that gives users an unrivaled airport experience without letting up one jot on security. This bears out our capacity to constantly innovate to safeguard passenger trust and help pave the way for even smoother and more secure future travel RESA CEO Renaud Willard said: "Current covid restrictions forced us to rethink how to take care of passengers and their interactions with airport security staff and equipment. The biometric trial underway at Lyon Airport was made possible by French industrial collaboration, whereby hi-tech saved the day despite the current pandemic and economic crisis. We have shown here that passengers can pass through airport checks fully contactless and without handing over paper documents while shoring up security to boot." Vinci Airports France Americas Area Director Valerie Vesque-Jeancard said: "We are thrilled to launch MONA today, a world first, at a time when airports need game-changing innovations so they can give passengers an even safer, more enjoyable and personalized experience. I warmly congratulate all staff involved including IDEMIA and RESA people, who managed to overcome tough restrictions these last few months and deliver a great trial in barely a year." IDEMIA provides both rapid and safe passenger flow solutions to countless airports around the world and manages 30-plus government border control programs. In 2017, IDEMIA installed a facial recognition-based biometric ID control system in Terminal 4 of Singapore's Changi Airport, from baggage check-in right through to aircraft boarding, including going airside and border crossing. The Company has regularly conducted facial recognition technology trials to make boarding smoother. RESA's expertise lies in introducing biometric technology to authenticate airport security staff, who need to connect to airport IT systems. RESA is currently engaged in introducing such technology on top of existing passenger airport systems. Previously, the firm has conducted several pilot tests including in Singapore and Paris airports. About IDEMIA IDEMIA, the global leader in Augmented Identity, provides a trusted environment enabling citizens and consumers alike to perform their daily critical activities (such as pay, connect and travel), in the physical as well as digital space. Securing our identity has become mission critical in the world we live in today. By standing for Augmented Identity, an identity that ensures privacy and trust and guarantees secure, authenticated and verifiable transactions, we reinvent the way we think, produce, use and protect one of our greatest assets our identity whether for individuals or for objects, whenever and wherever security matters. We provide Augmented Identity for international clients from Financial, Telecom, Identity, Public Security and IoT sectors. With close to 15,000 employees around the world, IDEMIA serves clients in 180 countries. For more information, visit www.idemia.com Follow @IDEMIAGroup on Twitter About RESA Backed by 30 years of experience and 1,000-plus software programs installed in 62 countries, RESA is one of the world's top airport and airline systems developers. The firm is an innovative Vendee-based small business that develops, sells and maintains a broad range of integrated software covering all airport system needs, including passenger check-in and boarding, baggage tracing and reconciliation, passenger tracking, automatic gates, self-service kiosks and biometrics, flight management, resource allocation, billing, statistics, business intelligence and messaging. __________________________________ 1 France's national authority responsible for data privacy View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201005005759/en/ Contacts: Press: IDEMIA: Hanna Sebbah idemia@havas.com RESA: Cecile Simond-Pion, Communication and Events marketing@resa.fr +33 (0)2 51 24 70 00 As Malaysians begin to blame politics for the countrys recent spike in COVID-19 cases, pedestrians in the town Ipoh, Perak, seemed to have the appropriate response. A photo of one Ipoh banner spray-painted with the words, Fuck Politik! 317 kes (Fuck Politics! 317 cases) trended online yesterday evening, though it has since been removed. 317 cases referred to the number of new COVID-19 infections recorded Saturday in Malaysia. The surge came in the midst of elections in pandemic-ravaged Sabah state, where thousands of new infections have been logged since last month. Malaysia has counted 12,381 of COVID-19 since the outbreak began, including 293 new infections added yesterday. The death toll stands at 137. Some, like the Ipoh streetbridge artist, blamed politicians who spread the virus by refusing to isolate themselves immediately after flying into West Malaysia from Sabah. People flying in from Sabah are encouraged to undergo self-quarantine for 14 days upon return. Did you guys see this at the pedestrian bridge outside the Bainun Hospital in Ipoh? @Iloveyouipoh wrote in a tweet that has been shared almost 4,000 times. Hours after hundreds had shared the F*ck Politics! banner, another cropped out outside Ipohs Perak Stadium reading, Rakyat jaga rakyat! Menteri jaga poket (Lets take care of each other! Ministers only care about filling their pockets!). Perak people are fierce, @Amir_zulkifli91 wrote in the replies to the photo that has been shared nearly 3,000 times. By yesterday, local police said both banners had been taken down. We found the banners in nearby rubbish bins, Ipoh police spokesperson Asmadi Abdul Aziz told the press this morning. A police report has been filed but it was unclear whether an investigation would be pursued to find the culprits. Rakyat jaga rakyat! Menteri jaga poket banner outside the Perak Stadium. Photo: Franlonerainger/Twitter Other stories to check out: #PoliticiansPuncaVirus trends online as Malaysians blame ministers over COVID-resurgence This article, F*ck Politics! banner in Ipoh pretty much captures Malaysias mood right now, originally appeared on Coconuts, Asia's leading alternative media company. When the Rotary Club of Dearborn shifted its weekly luncheon meetings in March to weekly Zoom sessions, in keeping with CDC and local guidelines to battle COVID-19, members were unsure what to expect. It was uncharted territory for everyone, including Eric Rader, outgoing Dearborn Rotary president 2019-20, and Colleen Nieman, 2020-21 incoming president. We didnt know how many members would be willing to meet online, said Rader. It was a pleasant surprise that our weekly attendance didnt drop. Instead, members who vacation or live part of the year out of state, were able to participate. Weekly Zoom meetings also made it easier for members who have hectic work schedules to join us right from their desks. Rader passed the gavel to Nieman at the end of the Rotary year in June. She quickly recognized another benefit of the virtual meetings. Its now easy for our Rotary district leadership and members from other Rotary clubs locally and internationally to join us online, added Nieman. Several weeks ago, Swaminathan Chelladurai, a Rotarian from the Rotary club of Tirunelveli Venuvanam located in the southeast tip of India, reached out to Dearborn Rotary and has become a frequent visitor to weekly meetings. He and his wife visited Michigan for several months in 2016 when their youngest daughter and her husband, both engineers, were living in Dearborn. My son-in-law Sankar Durajai worked for Ford, and our daughter Rama Bala gave birth to their son at Beaumont Wayne hospital, added Chelladurai, 71, a retired education administrator. They returned to India in 2019. We still have many good memories and photos of our visit. Members and guests of Dearborn Rotary have also enjoyed informative and fun programs, two of which were presented by participants in the Rotary Youth Exchange, an international student exchange program for students in secondary school. In May, Madeline Hnatiuk, a graduate of Dearborn High School and granddaughter of Dearborn Rotarian Martha Hnatiuk, talked about her Rotary exchange year in Iserlohn, Germany. Giving a PowerPoint presentation online, she shared pictures and experiences of her stay with three host families from August 2018 to July 2019. Currently a sophomore at Western Michigan University, she tested out of every German language class and worked with the dean to create her own curriculum. In August, Gustav Monster, Dearborn Rotarys inbound exchange student in 2019, joined the virtual club meeting from his home in Denmark. Monster, who attended Dearborn High School, shared how his experience changed his perspective about America and gave him the opportunity to make lots of friends locally and around the world. Following his return to Denmark, he attended the Rotary International Conference in Hamburg, Germany and reconnected with a fellow Rotary exchange student who had lived in Plymouth. According to Nieman, the weekly online meetings have helped members stay connected and have also brought the club new members as well as visitors. We know its not the same as meeting in person, but there are still many things we can do, added Nieman. Rotarians continue to volunteer for Meals on Wheels and several helped package and deliver meals in the spring for lunch pick-ups at several of the Dearborn public schools. The club also contributed to delivery of meals to front line workers and caregivers at Beaumont Hospital, Henry Ford Village, and to Dearborn Police and Fire. On Saturday morning, September 26, Dearborn Rotary volunteers will tackle their seasonal cleanup for Adopt a Highway of Telegraph Road between Michigan Avenue and Ford Road. All was not virtual when club members recently gathered at the fire station pavilion on West Outer Drive in Dearborn for an evening to bring your own picnic. Masked and safely distanced, members were able to greet each other and celebrate the announcement of Dearborns Rotarian of the Year award presented to Jim Thorpe, past president of Dearborn Rotary and the Dearborn Rotary Foundation. Founded in 1923, the Rotary Club of Dearborn is the citys oldest service organization and is a proud member of Rotary International bringing 1.2 million members in over 34,000 individual clubs together to live the motto of Service Above Self. For more information and how to join, visit www.DearbornRotary.org. Monika Das has created history from Bihar by becoming the first transgender woman to be appointed as presiding officer by the Election Commission for the state assembly elections which begin from October 28, as per a report in The New Indian Express. The 32-year-old is a gold medallist in law from Patna University. She is also the first transperson to be working with a nationalised bank since 2015. As a result, Bihar is India's first state to appoint a transperson as the presiding officer to any election. PTI Back in 2016, in West Bengal, Riya Sarkar, a transgender woman, was appointed as a polling officer. As of now, Bihar has around 40,000 transgenders. Das shall get all the training needed, said Chief electoral officer of Bihar HR Srinivasa. According to Bihar's electoral roll, 2344 transgenders are eligible to cast their vote. PTI Reshma Prasad, an expert member of the National Council for Transgender Persons in New Delhi, welcomed the move and said it was a proud moment for the transgender community. GRAND RAPIDS, MI - West Michigans largest K-12 school districts confirmed Monday their commitment to mask requirements for in-person classes, following Fridays Michigan Supreme Court ruling against Gov. Gretchen Whitmers emergency executive orders. In a 4-3 opinion, the court found that the governor was not permitted under the law to extend a state of emergency past April 30 because of the ongoing pandemic after lawmakers didnt pass an extension. Whitmer issued a mandate last week that K-5 students also had to wear masks in the classroom, an order that wouldve went into effect Oct. 5. Schools that returned for in-person learning this fall implemented mandatory mask rules for students in grades 6-12 under guidance set by Whitmers MI Safe Schools Roadmap. The courts decision leaves Michigan K-12 schools unclear of how the ruling affects their previous rules for mandatory masks during face-to-face learning, Kent County Intermediate School District Superintendent Ron Caniff said Monday, Oct. 5. In the immediate aftermath of the courts decision, all school districts across Michigan are trying to determine where this ruling leaves us, but until further notice the health and safety protocols remain in effect, he said. Caniff said he has been advised by legal counsel that local school boards are empowered to provide for the safety and welfare of pupils while at school under Michigan Legislature. He said that means schools can keep their safety protocols made under the guidance of Whitmers MI Safe Schools Roadmap. Even though the force impelling the adoption of the plans by local boards may no longer be viable (the executive order), the action of each individual board stands until or unless rescinded, Caniff said, about the 20 school districts in the Kent ISD. Thus, all safety standards, protocols and other measures set forth within the various preparedness plans such as face coverings and social distancing remain in effect as the policy of each adopting board. Grand Rapids Public Schools, which is planning to offer an in-person learning option later this month after conducting virtual learning for the first five weeks of the school year, is sticking by its plan to require masks for all staff, students and members of the public. The school district is the largest in West Michigan with 15,186 students. At this time, we are not altering the health and safety protocols within our COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan which is posted on our school districts website and approved by the Grand Rapids Board of Education, Superintendent Leadriane Roby wrote in a letter to parents Oct. 5. We will be seeking guidance and direction from the state and county health departments, the state Legislature and Governors office, and the Kent Intermediate School District on next steps. Forest Hills Public Schools, a Grand Rapids-area district with over 9,700 students, also confirmed its commitment to mandatory face coverings, hand washing and sanitization protocols Monday in an update posted to the district website. The district started the school year offering an online-only learning option and a hybrid learning option to students. Forest Hills recently announced it would switch the hybrid option to fulltime, in-person instruction on a daily basis in its 18 schools, which began Sept. 28. Rockford Public Schools, which has about 8,000 students, remains committed to its COVID-19 protocols in an effort to keep students and staff safe, Superintendent Michael Shibler said in a Monday email to parents and staff. We will continue to follow all safety protocols outlined in the plan, including wearing masks to protect students, staff, and anyone accessing our facilities, Shibler wrote. We believe that despite any legal logistics, our plan provides the safest means to educate students whether in person or remotely. In Muskegon County, Mona Shores Public Schools also committed to continuing its mask mandate. Mona Shores is one of the largest districts in the Muskegon County Intermediate School District with just under 4,000 students. It started the school year with hybrid and online-only options. Superintendent Bill OBrien said the safety protocols, including mask mandates and cleaning, continues safety within the district. Zeeland Public Schools Superintendent Calvin DeKuiper acknowledged that some families may disagree with the continuation of school mask mandates, but said the district will continue its protocols for the time being. While ZPS understands there are numerous viewpoints associated with this highly sensitive topic, we ask for your continued grace and support while we navigate through this turning point for our state, he wrote in an email to families Oct. 4. ZPS is proud of the success experienced district-wide with mitigating the spread of COVID-19. While we understand it can be challenging, we couldnt be more proud of the 6,000 students and 800 staff within our buildings who comply to maintain a safe and healthy environment. DeKuiper said school leaders plan to meet with legislators, legal counsel, the teachers union and the Ottawa County Department of Public Health to ensure all current safety plans are appropriate, effective, and timely. Other public schools in West Michigan that confirmed their commitment to mask requirements on Monday include Jenison, Hudsonville, Holland Public Schools. The largest Grand Rapids area private schools are also adhering to previous safety guidelines. Schools in the Catholic Diocese of Grand Rapids plan to continue requiring masks for its students, although school leaders say the court ruling still needs to be interpreted. Until we receive further guidance, for the sake of order and safety, the Office of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids will keep the current requirements of the Michigan Return to School Roadmap and our diocesan return to school plan in place," diocese director of communications Annalise Laumeyer said. The school system an alliance of 31 learning communities serving more than 6,340 preschool through 12th grade students across West Michigan is offering full, in-person learning five days a week this fall. Although it started the school year Aug. 19 only requiring grades 6-12 to wear masks in the classroom, it began requiring masks for K-5 students on Oct. 5, Laumeyer said. Grand Rapids Christian Schools Superintendent Tom DeJonge called the court ruling a procedurally complex matter, but said there is no confusion on the districts rules and procedures moving forward. Grand Rapids Christian Schools remains firmly committed to keeping our students and staff safe and healthy and our schools open, he wrote in a letter to parents this weekend. We will continue to require face coverings for PS - 12 students. We will also continue with frequent and scheduled hand-washing, cleaning, and social distancing. More on MLive: Jackson County schools expected to stick with safety plans after court ruling Swartz Creek schools will not require K-5 students to wear masks in classroom Kalamazoo-area schools stay the course to prevent COVID-19 after court ruling G rassroots music venues have been left in uncertainty after the deadline for the distribution of the Governments Culture Recovery Fund was delayed by a week. In August, 135 small venues across the country were saved from closure by the 3.36m Emergency Grassroots Music Fund, although this money was only designed to last until the end of September. Music Venue Trust (MVT), which campaigns on behalf of grassroots music venues, said it appreciate[s] why such a delay may have been necessary, given the difficulty and the complexity of this process for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, and Arts Council England. However, MVT said, the extended deadline pushed back from October 5 to October 12, news of which was only given with 72 hours notice meant that venues already in very precarious financial situations now face a further seven days of uncertainty. MVT said: A week delay may seem, at first glance, relatively immaterial, but the previously announced hard deadline of 5pm on Monday October 5 for decisions on this essential funding, support which is the mainstay of the Governments approach to prevent permanent closures, has resulted in time limited agreements, both verbal and contractual, between venues and their landlords, breweries, suppliers and staff. Acknowledging that not every venue will be saved by the Culture Recovery Fund, MVT called on the Government to provide details of a plan B for those that didnt receive financial aid. This is a vital creative sector providing jobs, opportunities, and training for hundreds of thousands, and enjoyment to millions of people, MVT said. It needs a sector-specific plan, either to protect it or to rebuild it if it collapses. It added: Saving a venue in Hull isnt going to help a community in Blackpool that loses its loved space. An artist trying to start their career in Ramsgate isnt going to get their first gig in Plymouth. We cant leave communities and artists permanently locked out from live music after this temporary lockdown is over. The vast majority of music venues in the UK have been closed since lockdown began in March, with many citing the financial and physical constraints of social distancing as a barrier to reopening. That's how Al smith put it back in the '20s. Voter fraud is a fact, and mail-in ballots are vulnerable to being altered, stolen, lost, or rejected. Mail-in ballots also make it easier for your pet cat, conjoined twin, or dead uncle to cast a vote. In ancient Greece, two safeguards were introduced to combat voting error and fraud: the "secret ballot" and the protected "polling station." These simple measures minimize intimidation, "vote-buying," and errors in tabulation. Polling stations also offer inexperienced voters an opportunity to interact with knowledgeable poll workers. Mail-in ballots provide no mechanism for the correction of errors. The primary assurance that the returned mail-in ballot is kosher is a signature received in the mail without witnesses. The integrity of mail-in ballots depends on the signature verification skills of poorly trained local officials. Despite the coronavirus pandemic, most of us can safely vote in person if election officials implement the same protocols used at the grocery store. Present statistics regarding the minuscule "percentage" of error and fraud associated with mail-in ballots are calculated based on past numbers of mailed in votes. If this volume explodes, so will the insurmountable burden placed upon the ailing shoulders of the United States Postal Service. According to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, voting by mail increases the number of ballots that are rejected, and "the pipeline that moves mail ballots between voters and election officials is very leaky." According to the Caltech/MIT Voting Technology Project, fraud and security are social problems, and "people will commit fraud if they are willing to win by any means." In response to the politicization of the mail-in ballot controversy, Congress is already suggesting a delay in final ballot counting. The date for elections has been set by law as the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November since 1845. Congress has never delayed a federal election, even during the Civil War and World War II. In California's presidential primary, 100,000 mail-in ballots were rejected. In Paterson, New Jersey's city council election, of the 16,747 vote-by-mail ballots submitted, one out of five was disqualified. In the Miami mayoral election of 1997, fraud so pervaded the mail-in ballots that every one was discarded. The winner was declared based solely on the votes from the polling stations. What is worse than not voting is having your vote not count. Get off your couch, grab your ID, put on a mask, and go vote. Image: Library of Congress. New Delhi: Union Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy on Sunday (October 4, 2020) said that the central government is planning to make amendments to the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). "The Central government is planning to make changes to the IPC and CrPC. We are also seeking suggestions on this (to amend IPC, CrPC)," said Reddy. The Minister was in Amberpet to inaugurate and dedicate CCTV network to his constituents in Amberpet of Secunderabad parliamentary constituency. "Since when I was an MLA from Amberpet, installation of CCTV across the constituency has been a priority, and Im happy to have dedicated the CCTV Network today as the MP, at DCP Office, Amberpet," Reddy tweeted after the event. Since when I was an MLA from Amberpet, installation of CCTV across the constituency has been a priority, & Im happy to have dedicated the CCTV Network today as the MP, at DCP Office, Amberpet. Was joined by Sri @KaleruVenkatesh, @CPHydCity Sri Anjani Kumar & other local leaders. pic.twitter.com/fvSaafcy5W G Kishan Reddy (@kishanreddybjp) October 4, 2020 Notably, the IPC is substantive law which defines different types of crimes and punishments for them, such as murder, rape, theft, extortion, etc. On the other hand, CrPC prescribes the procedure to be adopted for the trial and conviction of the offenders. He also commented on the proposed Rashtriya Raksha University in Gujarat and expressed that it will bring key changes in the functioning of the country's police system. On the National Forensic Sciences University, he expressed that it would enable students in the country to enrich themselves in law, criminology and other related disciplines, as well as excel in forensic science research. Notably, the two bills to set up the Rashtriya Raksha University and the National Forensic Sciences University were passed by the upper and lower houses in September. Reddy was joined by Amberpet MLA Kaleru Venkatesh and Hyderabad Commissioner of Police Anjani Kumar and other local leaders. Earlier on Monday (October 5) while talking about the Farm bills (now laws), the Minister said that these will empower and enrich our 'annadatas', helping them sell their produce at more remunerative prices and doubling their incomes. "The #Farmbills introduced by the @narendramodi government will empower and enrich our annadatas, helping them sell their produce at more remunerative prices and doubling their incomes"#JaiKisan pic.twitter.com/WpRTBy7ycV G Kishan Reddy (@kishanreddybjp) October 5, 2020 (With inputs from news agencies) Live TV A test case brought by Britains markets regulator against some of the worlds biggest insurers will jump straight to the Supreme Court after Londons High Court agreed to a fast-track appeal on Friday. Although expedited, the appeal will further delay payouts on disputed claims for thousands of struggling businesses battered by the coronavirus pandemic, hoping for a speedy payout after a judgment delivered two weeks ago. Related: UK COVID-19 Insurance Dispute Could Be Heading to Supreme Court as Talks Falter London Court Rules Some Insurers Should Not Have Denied Business Interruption Claims At a webcast hearing on Friday, judges allowed the case to leapfrog to the UKs highest court, which is expected to consider it by year-end. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) brought a case against eight insurers in June to clarify whether 21 policy wordings, affecting potentially 700 types of policies, 60 insurers, 370,000 policyholders and billions in insurance claims, covered disruption and government-ordered closures to curb the virus. Judges examined policy wordings that cover business interruption when insured premises cannot be accessed because of public authority restrictions, in the event of a notifiable disease within a specified radius and hybrid wordings. The FCA said the judgment ruled mainly in the favor of policyholders, although some insurers were more circumspect. Subsequent negotiations over which policies should now pay out hit a stumbling block and collapsed on Wednesday. The FCA brought the case against QBE, Hiscox , RSA, MS Amlin, Ecclesiastical , Argenta, Zurich and Arch. Zurich and Ecclesiastical, which previously said the court found in their favor, are not seeking a further appeal. QIC Europe, part of Qatar Insurance Company, failed in an 11th-hour bid to join the proceedings. Sonia Campbell, a partner at law firm Mishcon de Reya who is leading one of two action groups of policyholders, said the decision by insurers to appeal was another nail in the coffin for small businesses. [I]t is disgraceful that insurers continue to drag their feet and watch more and more of their own policyholders go to the wall, she said. Small businesses from cafes and wedding planners to events businesses have said they faced ruin after attempts to claim compensation for business losses during the pandemic, which prompted a three-month national lockdown in March followed by other restrictive measures, were rejected by insurers. Kim Roe, managing director of Circa Group, an events group based in Tunbridge Wells in southeastern England that once ran events for London blue-chip companies, said the firm was tearing through reserves since being shuttered in March. Roe, a 20-year Hiscox customer, said events businesses were the forgotten people, because they had been unable to trade even in a limited capacity. If I knew I was going to get some form of settlement, I could sleep at night, she said. Businesses across the world have been locked in disputes with insurance companies over pandemic-related payouts. Insurers say they are paying valid claims but that many policies exclude pandemics, require physical damage to premises or do not apply to widespread lockdowns and paying out all claims could be catastrophic for the industry. (Reporting by Kirstin Ridley, editing by Louise Heavens and Elaine Hardcastle) In predictable expat fashion, UK-based Celebrity Apprentice star Lord Alan Sugar spent his first weekend out of private quarantine soaking up the sights at Sydneys Bondi Beach. Its just a shame his superyacht named Lady A didnt accompany him on the trip Down Under considering its local pedigree. Sugar bought the 55-metre superyacht in 2015 from StealthGas chief executive Harry Vafius, and promptly changed its name to Lady A in honour of his wife of more than 50 years, Ann Simons. Lord Sugar's superyacht 'Lady A' leaving Portsmouth Harbour, Hampshire, UK. Credit:Alamy But it was originally built and owned by Alan Bond. Bondy obviously had business on his mind in 1986 when he commissioned Jon Bannenberg to design the yacht he originally named Southern Cross. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Sophie Deviller and Thanaporn Promyamyai (Agence France-Presse) Phuket, Thailand Mon, October 5, 2020 16:48 474 e22cd4161040e111d73a5626c49325cd 2 People COVID-19,Thailand,phuket,tourism,quarantine,patients,Asia,hotels Free A private infinity pool, gourmet meals - and two temperature checks a day. Welcome to five-star quarantine in Thailand, where well-heeled tourists can live in luxury while obeying some of the world's strictest anti-coronavirus measures. After barring visitors for six months, the tourism-reliant country is reopening to a small number of holidaymakers, with the first batch arriving in Phuket, a popular resort island, in the coming weeks. But before enjoying the beaches, the 300 tourists from China and Scandinavia will have to complete 14 days of compulsory quarantine, including two coronavirus tests, overseen by a "war room" of doctors and security guards. "It will be comfortable but I am afraid I might be anxious because of the confinement," said Jean-Francois, a French retiree living in Sweden who hopes to escape the winter in the kingdom. "I do wonder if Thailand is doing a bit too much," he said. At The Senses Resort overlooking Phuket's Patong Bay, 16 villas have been specially prepared for quarantine guests. The villas, which are up to 220 square meters were redesigned, getting rid of cushioned surfaces to make disinfecting easier, while CCTV security cameras have been installed at the entrances. Employees have also received training at a hospital in how to spot infections, and given personal protective equipment to deliver room-service meals. "We won't make much profit from these special clients because of the expenses involved," says hotel owner Suppachoke Laongphet. But "we had to find other sources of income to support our staff and the local economy". His resort is one of nine properties in Phuket - mostly luxury hotels - with government approval for quarantining guests. Upmarket quarantine does not come cheap: confinement at The Senses runs to a hefty $5,300, or $18,700 for a family of four. If the Phuket model proves successful, the government will attempt to replicate it in the rest of the country. Once visitors finish quarantine, they can stay and travel freely for three to nine months on a special visa created to revive tourism. Expectations for a record 40 million visitors this year were dashed after the coronavirus put global travel on hold, sending Thailand's economy into free-fall. Border closures in April meant an immediate freeze to the incomes of millions of Thais working in the sector - with knock-on effects on the service and restaurant industries. Before the pandemic, tourism generated 93 percent of Phuket's income. Today, nearly all hotels and more than 70 percent of the island's businesses are shuttered, officials say. But Thailand has emerged relatively unscathed from the virus with just 59 deaths, and authorities are hoping travelers can be lured back despite having to abide by strict - and costly - quarantine measures. The number of visitors under the new visa scheme will likely be limited - "just those with the means and who wish to stay several months in our country", says Kongsak Khoopongsakorn, president of the Thai Hotel Association's southern chapter. But a tourism revival - however small - is sorely needed, he says. "This is not what will sustainably improve the economy of the country but it allows us to be patient." At The Senses resort, visitors will wake up to a view of the island's lush sloping mountains and can swim laps in each villa's infinity pool. But attempting to leave the room could bring police at a guest's door within 15 minutes, said Thanchanok Pramkull, the hotel's deputy commercial director, while an infected guest can be taken to hospital within half-an-hour. Completing quarantine does not ensure unfettered freedom -Thai premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha has said visitors' whereabouts will continue to be tracked via mobile phone apps. But the strict rules have not deterred interest. About 20 people from India and Europe have already contacted the hotel since it got approval for the program. "It is effectively a gilded cage," says a 50-year-old Danish visitor planning a stay at The Senses, who declined to be named. "But it's worth it. After the quarantine we will be able to enjoy beautiful sunsets in one of the safest places in the world for COVID." By PTI ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 16, four weeks after an alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was setup to launch a campaign to oust the Imran Khan-led government. On September 20, the leaders of 11 major Opposition parties announced formation of the PDM and launch of a three-phased anti-government movement under an "action plan" starting with countrywide public meetings, protest demonstrations and rallies before a "decisive long march" towards Islamabad in January 2021. "Pakistan's Opposition parties announced on Monday to hold their first anti-government rally on October 16," PDM leader Ahsan Iqbal said. The Opposition leaders had announced that they would use all political and democratic options, including no-confidence motions and en mass resignations from the parliament to seek "the selected prime minister's resignation and an end to the role of the establishment in politics". They also issued a 26-point declaration in the form a resolution containing various demands, including "end of establishment's interference in politics, new free and fair elections after formulation of election reforms with no role of armed forces and intelligence agencies, release of political prisoners, withdrawal of cases against journalists, implementation of the National Action Plan against terrorism, speeding up of the projects under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and across-the-board accountability under a new accountability law". As per the new schedule unveiled by Iqbal showed that the Gujranwala rally would be followed by a rally in Karachi on October 18, Quetta on October 25, Peshawar on November 22, Multan on November 30 and then a rally in Lahore on December 13, said Iqbal. The schedule announced earlier showed that the first rally would be held on Oct 18 in Quetta. The change was made at the request of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) which commemorates the day October 18 to pay homage to victims of Karsaz bombing in 2007 that killed scores of people attending a rally in Karachi to welcome Benazir Bhutto. The PDM leaders also condemned the registration of an FIR against Nawaz Sharif for allegedly defaming the state institutions. Earlier on Monday, a case was filed against Sharif in Lahore. President Donald Trump, who is being treated for the CCP virus at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, speaks from his hospital room on Oct. 3, 2020. (The White House/Handout via Reuters) Trump Campaign Criticizes Biden for Continued Use of Negative Ads President Donald Trumps campaign criticized Joe Biden for his continued use of negative ads despite Bidens promise to take the ads down following the presidents hospitalization. Despite pledging to stop his negative advertising, nearly 100 negative Biden ads slandering the president and lying about his record have aired today while the president is at Walter Reed. Meanwhile, Joe Biden has continued to attack the president in his speeches, Andrew Clark, rapid response director for the Trump 2020 campaign, told Fox News. Clark said that Bidens campaign had not stopped attacking the president, and although the campaign had promised to take the ads down, the Biden campaign tried to trick reporters into thinking theyre the good guys and score some good headlines and tweets, all the while [bombarding] the president on the air waves, he said. Biden said on Friday that he would be taking down the negative ads, but by Saturday they were still running. T.J. Ducklo, the Biden campaigns press secretary, told Fox News that they took down the negative ads because they felt it was inappropriate to take advantage of the presidents positive testing for the CCP virus. Vice President Biden and our entire campaign are praying for President Trump and the first lady to make a full recovery as soon as possible, Ducklo said. However, Clark alleged on Twitter that Bidens campaign made the decision while the president was at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. It is uncertain how long the Biden campaign would take to remove the negative advertisements. Trump and first lady Melania Trump both tested positive for the CCP virus on Thursday, the president confirmed on Twitter. Tonight, FLOTUS and I tested positive for COVID-19. We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER! he wrote. Various people have gathered to wish the president and the first lady a full recovery, including Biden, who said: Jill and I send our thoughts to President Trump and first lady Melania Trump for a swift recovery. We will continue to pray for the health and safety of the president and his family. Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani is travelling to Qatar for a bilateral meeting with Qatari leaders but will not hold a meeting with Taliban officials even as peace talks are underway in the country's capital city Doha, officials said on Monday. Negotiations between the Afghan government and Afghan Taliban that started last month are aimed at the warring sides agreeing to a reduction of violence and a possible new power-sharing agreement in Afghanistan. Violence, however, has not abated even as Afghan negotiators have been engaged in direct talks for the first time ever. Scores of Afghan soldiers and Taliban fighters have been killed in intensive clashes and suicide attacks have left dozens of civilians dead in recent weeks across the war-torn country. Ghani and his team will be stopping first in Kuwait to attend the funeral ceremony of the late Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah before travelling to Qatar on Monday, a close aide to Ghani told Reuters. "Several meetings are planned to discuss efforts for deepening Afghanistan-Qatar ties and mutual cooperation in various areas," said the official adding that Ghani will also meet the Afghan representatives who are holding talks with Taliban. "But it is clear that Ghani will not meet the Taliban officials as there has been no reduction of violence and they continue to kill innocent civilians," said a senior western diplomat overseeing the ongoing peace process. The intra-Afghan talks are part of a February deal between the militants and the United States that has cleared the way for U.S. forces to withdraw from their longest war. But so far there has been no progress as the warring Afghans have become bogged down on processes and procedures, diplomatic sources said Search Keywords: Short link: Boston--At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, just as public institutions and businesses closed, research programs performing human participant research (HPR) also largely ceased operations. Now, universities and healthcare organizations conducting HPR are considering reopening. While guidelines from federal and state government and medical specialty societies currently exist to help restarting health services and resuming clinical trials, no clear guidance is available to aid resumption of HPR at community-based, observational cohort studies. In a narrative review in the Journal of the American Heart Association, researchers from the Boston VA Healthcare System and Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM), describe a potential path forward for safely reopening community-based observational studies, drawing on scientific knowledge and best practices from a variety of medical and lay sources. "We outline a framework for how human subjects research can be potentially resumed during the pandemic while simultaneously ensuring the safety of human participants," explained corresponding author Raghava S. Velagaleti, MD, MPH, FSCAI, cardiologist at the VA and adjunct instructor of medicine at BUSM. The researchers highlight current recommendations and useful metrics for guiding decisions regarding safe reopening/reclosing and for screening and surveillance of COVID-19 among employees and participants. They also suggest ways in which observational studies can potentially aid the efforts to characterize the pandemic. According to the researchers, indefinite stoppage of observational research carries harms to society and the research enterprise in terms of new knowledge not generated and research programs that may fail, leading to wasted resources and unrealized gains. "Scientists and researchers are putting in considerable thought and effort into developing frameworks for ensuring the safety of research participants during the pandemic and mitigating the participants' likelihood of contracting COVID-19 because of their participation in research studies," said senior author Vasan Ramachandran, MD, FAHA, FACC, professor of medicine at BUSM and director of the renowned Framingham Heart Study. The researchers believe that their redesigned research policies and procedures and a cautious approach to reopening, make it possible to resume research while simultaneously mitigating risk to participants and staff. "Our suggested approach can be a potential path forward not just for current resumption of observational studies, but also reengineer them to improve research participant experience and cope with possible future infectious disease pandemics," added Velagaleti. ### The Framingham Heart Study acknowledges the support of Contracts NO1-HC-25195, HHSN268201500001I and 75N92019D00031 from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Dr. Ramachandran Vasan is supported in part by NIH grant U01HL146382, the Evans Medical Foundation and the Jay and Louis Coffman Endowment from the Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Monday that the current soaring number of COVID-19 cases was about where government forecasts had predicted so the next weeks would be crucial to see if local lockdowns could get on top of the virus. "The incidence that we're seeing in the cases really sort of corresponds to pretty much where we thought we were," Johnson said after Britain reported a jump in daily COVID-19 cases to a record 22,961 on Sunday. A technical glitch had meant that over 15,000 test results had not been transferred into computer systems on time, including for contact tracers. "To be frank, I think that the slightly lower numbers that we'd seen didn't really reflect where we thought that the disease was likely to go so I think these numbers are realistic," Johnson said. "The crucial thing is that in the next few days, weeks we'll we'll see more clearly whether some of the restrictions that we put in ... whether that starts to work in driving down the virus." COVID-19 Vaccine Frequently Asked Questions View more How does a vaccine work? A vaccine works by mimicking a natural infection. A vaccine not only induces immune response to protect people from any future COVID-19 infection, but also helps quickly build herd immunity to put an end to the pandemic. Herd immunity occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. The good news is that SARS-CoV-2 virus has been fairly stable, which increases the viability of a vaccine. How many types of vaccines are there? There are broadly four types of vaccine one, a vaccine based on the whole virus (this could be either inactivated, or an attenuated [weakened] virus vaccine); two, a non-replicating viral vector vaccine that uses a benign virus as vector that carries the antigen of SARS-CoV; three, nucleic-acid vaccines that have genetic material like DNA and RNA of antigens like spike protein given to a person, helping human cells decode genetic material and produce the vaccine; and four, protein subunit vaccine wherein the recombinant proteins of SARS-COV-2 along with an adjuvant (booster) is given as a vaccine. What does it take to develop a vaccine of this kind? Vaccine development is a long, complex process. Unlike drugs that are given to people with a diseased, vaccines are given to healthy people and also vulnerable sections such as children, pregnant women and the elderly. So rigorous tests are compulsory. History says that the fastest time it took to develop a vaccine is five years, but it usually takes double or sometimes triple that time. View more Show Asked about a vaccine, Johnson said it felt like an AstraZeneca project must be on the verge of one. "We are working very very hard to get one," Johnson said of a vaccine. "We are not there yet." "I went to see the scientists at Oxford at the Jenner Institute, the AstraZeneca team - incredible what they're doing. You know you really feel they must be on the verge of it, but its got to be properly tested," Johnson said. Follow our full coverage of the coronavirus pandemic here The police in Ondo State have explained how a clash between supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) occurred in the state capital, Akure, on Sunday. PREMIUM TIMES reported that supporters of the two major parties clashed again in the early hours of Sunday ahead of Saturdays election. The clash which was said to be a reprisal against the killing of an APC member in Oba Nla area of Akure on Saturday night left many injured. The fight and heavy shooting along Oba Adesida Road also forced motorists off the road for their safety. Also, various vehicles belonging to the APC and PDP were reportedly vandalised in the process. Speaking on the incident, the spokesperson of the police in the state, Tee-Leo Ikoro, said the combat which occurred on Saturday evening led to Sunday fight as well. It was between two political parties and we earlier dislodged them on Saturday only for them to regroup the following morning but again, our men quickly dislodged them. No life lost and normalcy has returned to the area now, he said. Meanwhile, the two political parties involved shifted blame on the clash. Richard Olatunde, spokesperson for the Akeredolu/Aiyedatiwa Campaign Organisation, blamed the violent attack on the irresponsibility of the PDP. He also confirmed that many supporters of the ruling party were severely injured. In the same vein, Eyitayo Jegede Campaign Organisation spokesperson, Kayode Fasua, alleged that hoodlums brought by the APC caused the chaos. They have plans to disrupt the poll and they are already beating and macheting anybody with the PDP cap or logo. This newspaper had reported a series of violent incidents in the state. Some civic society organisations (CSOs) also predicted that the election may be marred by violence. Already, the Inspector-General of police in a statement by Frank Mba, the force spokesperson, last week announced the deployment of a DOG, an AIG, and 11 commissioners of police to ensure peaceful poll. The military also said there will be no fewer than 600 officers in the state for the poll. Physicians and scientists have long searched the natural world for chemicals that can improve human health. However, evolutionary selection optimized natural chemicals to benefit their host, not for safety or efficacy in humans. This mismatch inspired chemists at the University of Tokyo to alter useful natural products for better, safer use in people. Their approach has transformed one of the world's oldest antibiotics into versions that - in preliminary lab tests - appear to be safer, stronger drugs. Gramicidin A was originally discovered in soil bacteria and became the first commercially manufactured antibiotic in the early 1940s. It continues to be prescribed by doctors today as a topical cream or drops for some skin, eye and throat infections, but it cannot be used as a pill or injection. Gramicidin A kills bacteria by punching itself through the cell membrane, essentially allowing the cell to leak out and the world to leak in through nano-sized tunnels called ion channels. These unregulated ion channels wreak the same havoc on human cells when gramicidin A is used inside the body. Scientists have long been fascinated by the ion channel function of gramicidin A because ion channels are nearly universal among living things. Human ion channels are involved in everything from brain function to blood pressure. About 350 artificial analogs of gramicidin A have been developed over the past 80 years, all of which have properties similar to the original and thus cannot be used in humans. Now, a team from the University of Tokyo Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences has designed and analyzed over 4,000 gramicidin A artificial analogs. "Usually, natural product synthesis is a very difficult, complicated task. There are many steps to make these large molecules and at the end, synthetic yields are very low, so synthetic approaches like the one bead-one compound synthesis we used are still uncommon with natural products," said Assistant Professor Hiroaki Itoh, one of the authors of the research publication in Nature Communications. Gramicidin A is a spiral of 15 amino acids, the building blocks of peptides, which are short proteins. Researchers strategically selected six of those amino acids that could be altered without losing essential aspects of gramicidin A's normal structure. Each of those six amino acids could be exchanged with four different amino acids to change how the peptide bonds together, leading to a total of 4,096 variations. The one-bead-one-compound synthesis technique begins with small glass beads serving as the foundation to attach the first amino acid. Researchers build the peptide by attaching more amino acids one at a time. Whenever they reach the point of an amino acid variation, they split the beads into equal portions corresponding to the different amino acids, then remix the beads and continue building the peptide. After completing their synthesis, researchers placed each bead into its own container and analyzed the function of their new versions of gramicidin A. "Actually, this was a fully manual operation. It was a struggle for the student in charge of the project, but she is a very hard worker and made a great accomplishment with this research. Considering the normal timeline of natural product chemistry, this was quick," said Itoh. The student, Yuri Takada, who subsequently received her doctoral degree, is the first author of the research paper and is now working as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Cambridge in the U.K. Researchers began testing their new versions of gramicidin A for activity against the common bacterial infection streptococcus. The strongest performers were then assessed for their potential ability to not indiscriminately kill human cells by testing their reactions with rabbit blood cells and mouse leukemia cells. These tests identified about 10 gramicidin A variations as promising future antibacterial drugs. The results also allowed researchers to identify how specific structural changes to the amino acids affect the overall function of the molecule. This foundational structure-function information is crucial for understanding why and how pharmaceuticals work. Researchers also measured the ion channel-forming ability of the best performing new versions of gramicidin A. Although they had reduced toxicity to mammalian cells, their ion channel-forming ability remained strong. These subtle modifications to a few amino acids could transform gramicidin A's ion channel-forming function from indiscriminate to bacteria specific. "Most important is that this strategy can be used for other types of natural products and other ion channel-forming compounds. It has long been believed to be very difficult to realize species-selective ion channel-forming activity, but our study showed gramicidin A can have very bacteria-selective activity. I believe this thought can change the standard of ion channel-forming natural products," said Itoh. ### Research Article Yuri Takada, Hiroaki Itoh, Atmika Paudel, Suresh Panthee, Hiroshi Hamamoto, Kazuhisa Sekimizu, and Masayuki Inoue. (1 Oct 2020). Discovery of Gramicidin A Analogues with Altered Activities by Multidimensional Screening of a One-Bead-One-Compound Library. Nature Communications. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18711-2 Related Links Earlier research project using the same technique on a different antibiotic: https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/focus/en/press/z0508_00059.html Inoue Lab: http://www.f.u-tokyo.ac.jp/~inoue/e_index.html Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences: http://www.f.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/ Research contact Professor Masayuki Inoue Email: inoue@mol.f.u-tokyo.ac.jp Tel: +81-03-5841-1354 Press officer contacts Ms. Caitlin Devor Division for Strategic Public Relations, The University of Tokyo 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 133-8654, JAPAN Tel: +81-080-9707-8178 E-mail: press-releases.adm@gs.mail.u-tokyo.ac.jp About the University of Tokyo The University of Tokyo is Japan's leading university and one of the world's top research universities. The vast research output of some 6,000 researchers is published in the world's top journals across the arts and sciences. Our vibrant student body of around 15,000 undergraduate and 15,000 graduate students includes over 4,000 international students. Find out more at http://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/ or follow us on Twitter at @UTokyo_News_en. The year 2020 has been nothing less than a horror movie so far with its twists and turns, especially for the Bollywood industry. The B-town is facing blows one after another this year. Recently Sanjay Dutt was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, and had headed to Dubai with his family for a quick getaway. Now a fan took to her Instagram page and posted the latest photo of Sanjay Dutt from the hospital. The picture has left his fans extremely worried and concerned about his health. In the pic, Sanjay Dutt looks visibly thinner apparently due to the effect of his chemo session. He is seen wearing a light blue T-Shirt and dark blue jeans. He has cropped his hair too owing to the treatment. Sanjay Dutt is seen standing next to a fan for the photo. instagram It looks like Sanju Baba, as he is fondly called by his fans, has lost a lot of weight owing to the treatment. Many fans took to social media to express their concern and wished the actor a speedy recovery. blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> He looks so different gosh.... lost so much weight?? Uff... so sad. #SanjayDutt pic.twitter.com/7Fimr7KWAP IkraaaShahRukh (@Ikra4SRK) October 3, 2020 Sanjay Dutt's recent picture from his hospital visit worries fans: 'Baba looks so weak' https://t.co/wkU7MilzaW Farogh Ahmad (@farogh_a) October 5, 2020 Get well soon sir @duttsanjay harshit (@its_ramann) October 4, 2020 On August 11, Sanjay Dutt had issued a statement seeking a break from his work citing health issues. Soon the news broke out that he has been diagnosed with lung cancer. On the work front, Sanjay was last seen in Sadak 2, which was released on Disney Plus Hotstar on August 28. Later, as per the reports, he will feature in Bhuj: The Pride of India, a war action film directed, co-produced and written by Abhishek Dudhaiya. It is also slated for an OTT release on Disney Plus Hotstar. MensXP wishes Sanjay Dutt a speedy recovery. The AAP government has launched a special audit into alleged irregularities by former chairman Amanatullah Khan during his tenure, officials said. A four-member team is currently auditing records on Khan's regime from March 2016 to March 2020, they said. "The special audit is concerned to the irregularities committed by Amanatullah Khan in the capacity of the chairman of Waqf Board, with effect from March 2016 to March 2020," according to a letter from the office of principal secretary (revenue) to the chief executive officer of written last month. Khan, the AAP MLA from Okhla, confirmed the development but refused to comment. Khan has been unanimously elected as a member of but his election is yet to be notified by the government. He was chairman of Delhi Waqf Board before assembly elections earlier this year when his term as a member of the Board expired. The letter from the office of principal secretary (revenue) directed Delhi Waqf Board to provide "all concerned auditable records and information as per scope and period of audit," to the audit team. "The team has started work and it is being provided all the help and information," said a senior official. With his election as a member of the Delhi Waqf Board, Khan is likely to return as chairman of the panel for the third time in a row despite the fresh trouble for him in the form of the special audit. Khan previously served as chairman of the Board for around six months in 2016 before resigning in May, and again from September 2018 to March 2020. A CBI enquiry is already pending against Khan in connection with the appointments made by him in the Waqf Board during his earlier tenure in 2016. The Delhi government's Anti Corruption Branch (ACB) registered a case against Khan for alleged misuse of funds before the assembly polls this year. (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.) WASHINGTON, Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Parcel Revenue Corporation (PRC) announced today that its Sustainable Land Bank Initiative (SLBI) Executive Committee will begin accepting grant applications from local land banks beginning October 15, 2020 and ending November 6, 2020. The grants will fund research to assess the feasibility of creating financially self-sufficient land banks. The Sustainable Land Bank Initiative seeks to create self-sustaining land banks through real estate innovation. (PRNewsfoto/Parcel Revenue Corporation) In communities without land banks, PRC's groundbreaking Virtual Land Bank Platform will be deployed via the grants to guide community leaders with data-driven best practices optimized to reclaim unproductive parcels and the associated tax revenues that vacancies cost local governments. "Local governments in rural and urban communities lose billions of dollars per year to real estate vacancies, yet very little is being done to properly fund the land banks that act as a last line of defense to protect communities from unproductive real estate," said Eric Golubitsky, Vice President of Government Relations. "We are at the forefront of changing that. We've reimagined how local governments handle code enforcement and land banking. I am personally reaching out to land bank executive directors on a weekly basis and they all say the same thing: It's time for land banks to have more resources at their disposal." Local governments and land banks looking to learn more can learn more about the initiative at https://yestolandbanks.org or by calling 866.672.7235. About Parcel Revenue Corporation Parcel Revenue Corporation is developing the patented technology platforms of tomorrow that will aid local governments nationwide in the fight against blight, increase incoming tax revenues, and predict housing vacancies before they occur. Media Contact: Diane Hansen - What Works Consultants Phone: 775-400-2840 Email: [email protected] SOURCE Parcel Revenue Corporation On the directives of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, a nine-member delegation of the party on Monday met the family of a Dalit woman who died here after allegedly being raped by two men. Led by Congress Legislature Party leader Aradhana Mishra, the delegation met the family members and enquired about the details of the case. Later, talking to newspersons, Mishra said she will be handing over a report of the case to Priyanka Gandhi soon and also meet Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. She said her party demands proper security for the victims family and immediate arrest of all culprits. We also demand a compensation of Rs one crore for the family and a government job for one of family members, she said. To a question, Mishra said crime rises under a government which gives shelter to criminals and the BJP government in the state is an example of that. She cited the Unnao rape case and Chinmayanand case among others to stress the point. The 22-year-old Scheduled Caste woman died while being taken to a hospital after she was allegedly raped last week. Both the accused in the incident have been arrested. ABC News Demonstrators gathered in Washington on Friday for the country's largest annual anti-abortion rally around the anniversary of the landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision establishing the right to an abortion -- but this year, 49 years later, they march with the fate of Roe v. Wade more uncertain than ever. "We expect this year's March for Life to be historic with even higher levels of enthusiasm from participants," Jeanne Mancini, president of March for Life, told ABC News in a statement. "We are all hopeful that, with the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization case before the Supreme Court, this year will bring us much closer to building the culture of life we have all marched for since Roe v. Wade was imposed on our nation nearly 50 years ago." Wayne Jones is the CEO of Indoor Skydive Australia Group Limited (ASX:IDZ), and in this article, we analyze the executive's compensation package with respect to the overall performance of the company. This analysis will also assess whether Indoor Skydive Australia Group pays its CEO appropriately, considering recent earnings growth and total shareholder returns. Check out our latest analysis for Indoor Skydive Australia Group How Does Total Compensation For Wayne Jones Compare With Other Companies In The Industry? According to our data, Indoor Skydive Australia Group Limited has a market capitalization of AU$2.0m, and paid its CEO total annual compensation worth AU$211k over the year to June 2020. We note that's a decrease of 17% compared to last year. Notably, the salary which is AU$187.4k, represents most of the total compensation being paid. On comparing similar-sized companies in the industry with market capitalizations below AU$279m, we found that the median total CEO compensation was AU$544k. Accordingly, Indoor Skydive Australia Group pays its CEO under the industry median. Moreover, Wayne Jones also holds AU$93k worth of Indoor Skydive Australia Group stock directly under their own name. Component 2020 2019 Proportion (2020) Salary AU$187k AU$219k 89% Other AU$23k AU$34k 11% Total Compensation AU$211k AU$253k 100% Talking in terms of the industry, salary represented approximately 76% of total compensation out of all the companies we analyzed, while other remuneration made up 24% of the pie. According to our research, Indoor Skydive Australia Group has allocated a higher percentage of pay to salary in comparison to the wider industry. If total compensation veers towards salary, it suggests that the variable portion - which is generally tied to performance, is lower. Indoor Skydive Australia Group Limited's Growth Indoor Skydive Australia Group Limited's earnings per share (EPS) grew 5.6% per year over the last three years. Its revenue is down 33% over the previous year. Story continues We would argue that the lack of revenue growth in the last year is less than ideal, but it is good to see a modest EPS growth at least. In conclusion we can't form a strong opinion about business performance yet; but it's one worth watching. While we don't have analyst forecasts for the company, shareholders might want to examine this detailed historical graph of earnings, revenue and cash flow. Has Indoor Skydive Australia Group Limited Been A Good Investment? Given the total shareholder loss of 97% over three years, many shareholders in Indoor Skydive Australia Group Limited are probably rather dissatisfied, to say the least. This suggests it would be unwise for the company to pay the CEO too generously. To Conclude... As we touched on above, Indoor Skydive Australia Group Limited is currently paying its CEO below the median pay for CEOs of companies belonging to the same industry and with similar market capitalizations. But the EPS growth is lacking, just like the returns (over three years). So while we don't think, Wayne is paid too much, shareholders may hope that business performance translates to investment returns before pay rises are given out. It is always advisable to analyse CEO pay, along with performing a thorough analysis of the company's key performance areas. We identified 5 warning signs for Indoor Skydive Australia Group (3 make us uncomfortable!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Switching gears from Indoor Skydive Australia Group, if you're hunting for a pristine balance sheet and premium returns, this free list of high return, low debt companies is a great place to look. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. 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. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com. A Virginia General Assembly bill is likely dead for the session that would have held localities accountable for damages caused by protesters if an adequate police response was not provided. Del. Mark Cole, R-Fredericksburg, said he proposed House Bill 5026 to assure localities provide proper police protection during protests in an effort to minimize damages to personal property and businesses. The bill was referred to the House Courts of Justice committee in August but has not been addressed, and probably wont be according to its sponsor. Protests erupted around the state and nation since May, with demonstrators calling for social justice and police reform after George Floyd died in police custody. The protests swelled again last week after a grand jury indicted on wanton endangerment charges one out of three officers involved in the death of Breonna Taylor, a Kentucky woman who died after police fired shots in her apartment while serving a no-knock warrant. Cole submitted the bill in response to what he said was Virginia local government officials ordering police to stand down and not break up unlawful protests that included rioting and looting. It should be obvious now, that you cannot count on Democrats to keep you safe, Cole said. When violent protests hit, they order the police to back off and let rioters run wild. Buildings and vehicles were burned in Richmond in the initial days of protests following Floyds death, including a public transit bus. There was widespread property damage throughout the city which included graffiti, broken windows and stolen property. The Richmond Police Department instituted an 8 p.m. curfew a few days later and the Virginia State Police department, along with other local counties, began providing additional support. The Richmond Fire Department recently estimated that the city saw nearly $4 million in fire damage in the first 18 days of protests, according to a report by the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Police spent more than $1.6 million on police overtime pay during the first month of protests in Richmond, according to a report by Richmond BizSense. Protests have included calls from demonstrators to defund the police. Cole said defunding police would make communities less safe, and early police intervention could prevent situations from turning violent. People pay taxes for police protection, so if local elected officials withhold that protection, they should be held liable for the results of their actions, Cole said. Steve Neal, an author and retired Chesterfield County police captain, said the bill contradicts a 2005 Supreme Court ruling stating police have no duty to protect civilians from harm from another person. Neal said the language in the bill is too vague to enforce and said he felt an obligation to protect citizens since becoming a law enforcement officer. Every police officer Ive ever known, including myself, would risk their lives trying to protect other people. Thats what we do on a daily basis, Neal said. The police are actually doing that even though the law says we dont exactly have that duty. The staff of the Commission on Local Government analyzed the bills fiscal impact and collected responses from several localities. The Commission wrote that a majority of localities responded the bill would likely raise insurance premiums and legal fees because it can increase litigation resulting from the bill. A Virginia Beach representative questioned what evidence would have to be submitted or found to prove a locality intentionally or negligently provided an adequate police response. A Wise County representative stated: What is adequate in my mind may not be adequate in the minds of others. A representative from the town of Marion stated: This could open Pandoras Box for localities already suffering from reduced police staffing and increased incidents of civil unrest. Jessica Moore has been at the forefront of Richmond protests. She said she became more involved in the movement after learning about the lack of protection against COVID-19 in the Richmond City Justice Center, where her friend is incarcerated. Its become a lot more passionate for me just because no one else is listening. Our mayor is not listening, our governor is not listening, Moore said. Were going to take matters into our own hands. Moore, along with thousands who protested in Richmond over the past five months, advocates defunding the Richmond Police Department. She said its essential to reallocate tax dollars to schools and other community services. If theyre going to continue to fund the police, then the funds need to be spread out into programs to teach them to work with people with mental illnesses and other training to help them be more sensitive to certain situations, Moore said. Moore believes less response is needed, not more, as Coles bill proposes. Moore said the police are provided tear gas and other weapons, which are unnecessary. Legislators advanced several bills regarding criminal justice reform during the General Assembly special session, which kicked off in August to tackle criminal justice reform, the budget and other issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cole said that he has not decided if he will introduce the same bill in the next session. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Law Enforcement Virginia Armenia accused Azerbaijan of firing missiles into the capital of the separatist territory of Nagorno-Karabakh on Monday, while Azerbaijan said several of its towns and its second-largest city were attacked. Iran, which borders both countries, said it was working on a peace plan for the decades-old conflict, which reignited last month and has killed scores of people on both sides. The region of Nagorno-Karabakh lies inside Azerbaijan but has been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces backed by Armenia since the end of a separatist war in 1994. Armenian military officials reported missile strikes in the territorial capital of Stepanakert, which came under intense attacks all weekend. Residents told the Russian state RIA Novosti news agency that parts of the city were suffering shortages of electricity and gas after the strikes. Firefights of varying intensity continue to rage elsewhere in the conflict zone, Armenian Defense Ministry spokeswoman Shushan Stepanian said on Facebook. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said that while Nagorno-Karabakhs army confidently controls the situation in some areas where fighting is going on, it is very difficult in other areas. The Azerbaijani Defense Ministry, in turn, accused Armenian forces of shelling the towns of Tartar, Barda and Beylagan. Ganja, the countrys second-largest city far outside the conflict zone, also was under fire, officials said. Hikmet Hajiyev, aide to Azeirbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, tweeted that Armenian forces attacked densely populated civilian areas in Ganja, Barda, Beylagan and other towns with missiles and rockets. Armenias Foreign Ministry dismissed allegations of attacks being launched from Armenias territory as a disinformation campaign by Azerbaijan. Vahram Poghosyan, spokesman for Nagorno-Karabakhs leader, warned via a Facebook post that the territorys forces would target military facilities in Azerbaijani cities in response to strikes on Stepanakert and Shushi, another town in Nagorno-Karabakh. The fighting erupted Sept. 27 and has killed dozens, marking the biggest escalation in the conflict. Both sides have accused each other of expanding the hostilities beyond Nagorno-Karabakh. According to Nagorno-Karabakh officials, about 220 servicemen on their side have died in the clashes since then. Eighteen civilians have been killed and 90 others wounded. Azerbaijani authorities havent given details about military casualties, but said 24 civilians were killed and 124 wounded. Nagorno-Karabakh was a designated autonomous region within Azerbaijan during the Soviet era. It claimed independence from Azerbaijan in 1991, about three months before the Soviet Unions collapse. A full-scale war that broke out in 1992 killed an estimated 30,000 people. By the time the war ended in 1994, Armenian forces not only held Nagorno-Karabakh itself but also substantial areas outside the territory borders. Aliyev has repeatedly said Armenias withdrawal from Nagorno-Karabakh is the sole condition to end the fighting. Armenian officials allege Turkey is involved in the conflict on the side of Azerbaijan and is sending fighters from Syria to the region. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said a cease-fire can be established only if Turkey is removed from the South Caucasus. Turkeys government has denied sending arms or foreign fighters, while publicly siding with Azerbaijan. On a trip to Ankara, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said the 30-country military alliance is deeply concerned by the escalation of hostilities, and urged Turkey to help end the fighting. I expect Turkey to use its considerable influence to calm tensions, Stoltenberg told reporters after talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu, who reiterated calls for Armenia to withdraw from the region. Everyone, and especially NATO, must make a call for Armenia to withdraw from these territories, in line with international laws, U.N. Security Council resolutions and Azerbaijans territorial and border integrity, Cavusoglu said. The Foreign Ministry of Iran, which has nearly 760 kilometers (470 miles) of border with Azerbaijan and a short border with Armenia, said it is working on a peace plan. Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh did not elaborate but said Iran is talking to all related parties. Iran has prepared a plan with a specific framework containing details after consultations with both sides of the dispute, Azerbaijan and Armenia, as well as regional states and neighbors, and will pursue this plan, he said. Khatibzadeh also warned both sides against expanding the hostilities into Iranian territory. Any aggression against the borders of the Islamic Republic, even inadvertently, is a very serious red line for the Islamic Republic that should not be crossed, he said. Since the beginning of the conflict, stray mortar shells have injured a child and damaged some buildings in rural areas in northern Iran, near the border with Azerbaijan. Why Mewalal Choudhary, Bihars new education minister is in the eye of a storm BJP looks at plan B after LJP chief Chirag Paswan decides to go solo India oi-Madhuri Adnal Patna, Oct 05: The BJP will take a fresh look at its Bihar candidates after ally Chirag Paswan's move to go solo has recast political calculations ahead Bihar assembly polls. Reports suggest that the party plans to tweak its strategy and its choice of candidates, given the changed caste equations. Bihar in-charge Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi along with other senior leaders are set to meet at the party chief JP Nadda home today in this regard. Bihar Elections 2020: LJP is now a party for hoppers Chirag Paswan, the leader of the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), announced yesterday that he would not contest the polls as part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), and posed a direct challenge to Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal-United. JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News Chirag Paswan has also made his liking for Prime Minister Modi clear while rejecting Nitish Kumar as his leader. He further declared that he would put up candidates opposite Nitish Kumar's party Janata Dal-United (JDU) but avoid seats being contested by the BJP. Earlier on Thursday, Chirag Paswan held seat-sharing talks with BJP president J P Nadda, eyeing to contest as many as 143 seats in the upcoming polls. LJP Walkout: BJP warns of FIR over use of PM Modi's photo The Bihar assembly polls will be held in three phases on October 28, November 3, and November 7, and the counting of votes will take place on November 10. Culinary Union members Maria Magana, left, and Atilano Salgado go canvassing in Las Vegas. (Mark Z. Barabak / Los Angeles Times) On a blazing hot afternoon, two canvassers recently went door to door in a working-class neighborhood of east Las Vegas, bearing masks, campaign fliers and the weight of Democratic worries. Up and down stairs, across baking driveways, past thirsty lawns, Maria Magana and Atilano Salgado took turns asking voters in English, Spanish and a combination if they would support Joe Biden for president. "Perfecto," Magana responded when the answer was yes. Then she entered the information on a tablet cradled in her arm. Nevada once reliably Republican but more recently Democratic is something of a question mark in these closing weeks of the campaign. Polls taken before President Trump's hospitalization with COVID-19 gave Biden a small but consistent lead over the incumbent, who narrowly lost the state four years ago. However, the great strength of Democrats the work of political foot soldiers like Magana, 45, who helps tidy the casino at the MGM Grand hotel, and Salgado, 35, a line cook at Guy Fieri's Vegas Kitchen & Bar has been significantly reduced as a result of the pandemic. For months, Democrats failed to conduct the intensive voter registration and face-to-face conversations that helped flip the state in the late 2000s from red to blue. "People were sheltering at home. Nobody was going door to door. If you stood outside a supermarket, people would think you're crazy," said D. Taylor, the head of Unite Here, the national parent of the local Culinary Union, which runs the state's most powerful political operation. Although Democrats say they're making up for lost time using measures that ensure it's safe again to knock on doors and finding creative means of engaging voters on social media and other outlets they also say the contest is closer in Nevada than is comfortable. Privately, they fret over Biden's lack of personal visibility in the state he has not been to Nevada since campaigning in February ahead of its caucuses even as they condemn Trump for holding large-scale rallies last month in Reno and Las Vegas. Biden's running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris of California, held a drive-in voter mobilization event in Las Vegas on Friday. Story continues Republicans say Democrats have good cause for concern. "Nevada's been a tough state for us going back 16 years," said Rick Gorka, a national Republican Party spokesman who served as a Las Vegas-based strategist for John McCain's 2008 presidential campaign. "But a combination of events with a combination of candidates has put Nevada squarely in play, which should really scare Democrats." Nevada the sum of cosmopolitan Las Vegas, its mini-me, Reno, and vast stretches of rural conservatism has a history of close elections. Harry Reid, arguably the most powerful lawmaker the state ever sent to Washington, lost his first try for Senate by 624 votes and once won reelection by just 428. With the exception of Barack Obama's two comfortable victories, no presidential candidate since 1988 has carried Nevada by more than 4 percentage points; Hillary Clinton won by 2.4 points, or about 24,000 votes out of 1.1 million cast. Typically, Democrats prevail by out-registering Republicans and out-hustling them to make sure their partisans vote especially Latino, Black and Asian American residents of Las Vegas and its sprawling surroundings. While registered Democrats continue to outnumber Republicans both statewide and here in Clark County, the GOP narrowed the gap a bit over the summer by resuming its canvassing weeks before the Culinary Union took to the streets again in August. "We've been out in the neighborhoods multiple times working through the universe of voters we need to hit," said Jeremy Hughes, regional political director for Trump's reelection campaign. The Biden team, which just resumed on-the-ground canvassing, said it compensated for the lack of face-to-face contact by emphasizing "relational organizing" that is, reaching out to voters through networks of family, friends and other personal contacts. That can be even more effective than door-knocking, said Shelby Wiltz, a Biden strategist, "because it comes from someone you know, someone you trust." In addition to phone calls and texting, the campaign has used social media trying things such as art shows and online ice cream socials to expand its reach. When Harris hosted a small community gathering last month in Las Vegas, nearly 200,000 people viewed a post on Facebook Live, according to the campaign. Biden and his allies have also spent more than $9.7 million on television commercials since mid-March, when the former vice president effectively clinched the Democratic nomination, roughly twice what Trump and his supporters have spent, according to Advertising Analytics, a firm that independently tracks campaign spending. Since Labor Day, the Biden campaign has outspent Trump's by nearly 5 to 1. Still, Taylor insists there's no substitute for one-on-one conversations. "You've got to get on the doors," he said. "TV and radio talk to people. [They don't] answer their questions." So on a 100-degree day in Las Vegas, Magana and Salgado were among 200 canvassers going block by block statewide, visiting preselected Democratic households to gauge support for Biden. (In Las Vegas, they also pitched a measure requiring businesses to rehire workers furloughed amid the pandemic rather than replace them when operations resume. In mid-March, when the economy largely shut down, 98% of the Culinary Union's roughly 60,000 members were laid off. Today, around half are still out of work.) At each stop, after handing over masks and literature and stepping back from the door, Magana and Salgado logged the status of every voter who responded to their knock, so another wave of canvassers can follow up. "If they're leaning or undecided, we'll see if they've made up their minds," Salgado said. If they support Biden, we'll make sure they vote. Maria Magana leaves campaign literature at a home in Las Vegas. (Mark Z. Barabak / Los Angeles Times) The union hired its own epidemiologist and industrial hygienist to create a safety plan and has shared the protocol with other unions and progressive organizations, hoping they soon get back to door-knocking. (Reid, the retired Democratic leader in the Senate, is quietly raising millions to boost the effort.) Democrats have advantages they lacked four years ago. With control of the statehouse in Carson City, they pushed through laws making it easier to vote absentee and allowing same-day registration. A federal judge rejected a lawsuit by the Trump campaign seeking to block the changes. But there are important differences from 2016, apart from COVID-19. In 2016, Nevada was not just a presidential battleground. There was also a fierce contest to replace Reid in the Senate, which drew money and attention from Democrats throughout the country. Although that helped Clinton win and allowed the party to retain Reid's seat, some worry the results may have left Democrats taking the state for granted especially after winning it in three straight presidential elections. Rebecca Lambe, a longtime party strategist, said Biden supporters needn't think back far to appreciate the danger of complacency. She raised a cry certain to discomfit partisans. "We don't want to be the new Michigan," she said, referring to parts of the supposed Democratic "blue wall" that crumbled in 2016, costing Clinton the White House. "We don't want to be the new Wisconsin." This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Authorities in northeastern Syria have announced plans to grant amnesty to thousands of Syrians held at a detention camp, mostly women and children, and allow them to return to their families. Al-Hol camp west of Hasakah city houses over 60,000 people, including civilians displaced by the Islamic States (IS) war in neighboring Iraq as well as in Syria. Many are thought to be families of IS fighters. Some of the women actively participated in their self-declared caliphates barbaric rule. Others were innocents forced to flee along with the jihadis as the US-led coalition and their Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) partners drove them out of one town after the other, culminating in their defeat at their last stronghold in Baghouz in March 2019. The decision was announced on Oct. 3 in Raqqa by Ilham Ahmed, head of the SDFs civilian arm, the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC). Conditions at al-Hol are notoriously bad. The camp is overcrowded and underequipped. Sanitation is poor and health care almost nonexistent. Riots have frequently erupted among residents. IS women have sought to impose their own rule, meting out punishment to those who disobey. An unknown number have escaped. The SDF has long complained that it lacks the financial means to sustain al-Hol and other internment camps. Attempted breakouts have become routine. Ahmed made the local administrations ire clear. The Hol camp is a heavy burden, she said, and the local administration was not obliged to pay exorbitant sums in order to provide these people with food and other things, let alone [deal with] the problems that arise daily, including assassinations, rape and so on. Ahmed said legislation would be introduced to formalize the process of freeing the estimated 25,000 Syrians and granting amnesty for those deemed eligible. Around 17,000 of them are children. In addition to the misery engulfing it, al-Hol is seen as a breeding ground for violent extremism. As such, I think its a good decision to remove the Syrians from al-Hol, especially for the young children who bear no responsibility for [Islamic State] crimes, said Amy Austin Holmes, a fellow at the Wilson Center. It is an open question, however, as to how they will be treated once they return to their communities. The [local] administration has a policy to de-radicalize [IS] supporters, but they lack resources and so far the international community has not stepped up, Holmes told Al-Monitor via WhatsApp. Ahmed said some 10,000 foreigners (they do not include some 30,000 Iraqis at al-Hol) would remain in the camp, but they would be dealt with in a different way. She did not elaborate. Nor did she mention the Iraqis. The local administration is demanding that foreigners be repatriated by host governments. Canadas Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne announced via his Twitter feed today that a five-year-old orphaned Canadian girl was being repatriated from Syria. A small number, mostly children, have been taken back, but most governments are reluctant to do so on the grounds that they pose a security risk. Anne Speckhard, director of the International Center for the Study of Violent Extremism, told Al-Monitor, Most IS women did not have combat roles and do not have blood on their hands. However, there are also IS diehards and enforcers in al-Hol who are dangerous and should not be amnestied. They have killed, burned tents, harassed and beaten the others who are disillusioned and now hate IS. Ahmed did not say when the legislation or the amnesties would be rolled out. Nor did she say whether coalition officials were involved in the decision-making process. SDF sources speaking not for attribution, however, told Al-Monitor that coalition officials had been informed of the decision to free the Syrians, and the SDF hoped to collaborate with the coalition in vetting individuals who were slated to be freed. The sources said Syrians from areas under the Syrian governments control did not wish to return for fear of retribution and would be permitted to stay on in the camp. The sources said talks had been underway for several months with local Arab tribes to release Syrian families. One of the aims was to prevent middlemen from collecting bribes on false pretenses of securing the release of individual families. A State Department official speaking on background to Al-Monitor was at pains to convey there was no discord. The official said in emailed comments, We have discussed this with the SDC and understand what was conveyed about al-Hol does not signify a change in the process for Syrians to leave the camp, including security vetting, but rather a renewed effort by the Autonomous Administration to accelerate the release of Syrians as part of the ongoing return and reintegration initiatives. As we have noted previously, the SDF has been working with local community leaders to successfully move Syrians, mostly mothers and children, from northeast IDP camps back to their communities in Syria in line with local customs and agreements. Over five thousand have been reintegrated. Under a separate program, local Syrian authorities have held Syrian fighters to account where appropriate and supported reintegration back into local communities under tribal and family oversight. The SDF and civilian authorities have managed these programs responsibly and we expect that they will continue to do so," the official added. In a late night tweet yesterday, Ahmed sought to clarify her earlier comments. Ahmed said, Only the Syrian families who wish to leave al-Hol camp are free to leave.The families of foreign fighters and Syrians who have serious accusations will remain in the camp. The status quo of the camp will remain the same. Nicholas Heras, a Syria expert at the Institute or the Study of War, a Washington-based think tank, said, The SDF is under extreme pressure from the local Syrian tribes to release women and children from al-Hol. This situation was a major stress factor between the SDF and the tribes in eastern Syria. Heras added in emailed comments to Al-Monitor, The SDF is essentially relying on the tribes to faithfully implement an honor system that the women and children will not turn into seeds of IS ready to spring up into a new caliphate. The SDF is transferring responsibility onto the tribes to make sure that emptying al-Hol of local women and children, many of whom may still have some sympathy for [IS], does not become a catastrophic security risk. The plan, however, remains vague. Its unclear, for instance, what will happen to orphaned Syrians at the camp. Dareen Khalifa, Syria analyst for the International Crisis Group, said, An uncoordinated blanket release would be detrimental. There arent any serious programs in northeast Syria that help reintegrate the released families, whether by providing social or mental health support. Khalifa continued in emailed comments to Al-Monitor, The SDFs waning capabilities and resources and the limitations they place on NGOs place the burden on local communities to integrate deeply traumatized and often radicalized women and children. That said, I doubt that the SDF will risk the security of the area by rushing into releasing all Syrians at once. They fear the chaos that might ensue more than anyone else. Editor's note: Oct. 6, 2020. This article has been updated with a statement from the State Department. A team of Indian scientists has developed a coronavirus test, which, they say, would give result in less than an hour. It has been described as a simple, precise, reliable, scalable and frugal test. Heres what you need to know about it: (1.) The testing kit has been named Feluda, after a famous character--a detective--created by legendary director Satyajit Ray, though its full name is Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) Feluda test. (2.) It has been developed by researchers at New Delhis CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB) and the TATA Group. It has been priced at 500 and, scientists say, would give a test result in 45 minutes. (3.) Based on a gene-editing technology called Crispr, Feluda, CSIR scientists say, was tested on samples of 2,000 people, including those who had already tested positive for coronavirus. It was found to have 96% sensitivity and 98% specificity. (4.) A sensitive test is one which detects almost everyone who has the disease. A specific test, on the other hand, rules out almost everyone who doesnt have a disease. The accuracy of any test is based on these two aspects. (5.) The Feluda test kit is quite similar to a pregnancy strip test in that it changes colour on detecting a virus. Having already received approvals from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for a commercial launch, it could also be the worlds first paper-based Covid-19 test kit available in market. (6.) India is currently conducting Covid-19 testing through the real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test and the rapid antigen test (RAT). While an RT-PCR test gives a result in 1.5 hours, a rapid antigen test takes 30 minutes. (7.) Feluda is actually an acronym for FNCAS9 Editor-Limited Uniform Detection Assay. (8.) India is currently the second worst Covid-19 affected country in the world, after the United States, with a caseload of 66,23,815. This includes 55,86,703 recovered cases and 102,685 deaths. Editor's note: Dr. Celine Gounder is a CNN medical analyst and Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine and Infectious Diseases at NYU Langone and Bellevue Hospital Center. She is the Host of the Epidemic podcast. The opinions expressed here are her own. (CNN) In the two days since a pale, masked US President Donald J. Trump boarded Marine One for Walter Reed Hospital, the questions about his health have multiplied. Dr. Sean Conley, the President's personal physician, and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows have provided conflicting information about the President's health. Here's what we know now. The President's vital signs It's concerning that the President got so sick, so quickly. On Sunday we learned that the President had a fever and an oxygen saturation level below 94% on Friday morning, prompting his transfer to Walter Reed. Reading between the lines of what Dr. Conley did and did not say, it's possible that the President's oxygen levels dropped into the upper 80s. He received a low dose of supplemental oxygen with improvement in his oxygen saturation levels. He again had a drop in his oxygen saturation level to 93% Saturday morning. It is unclear whether he again was given supplemental oxygen at that time. He is now on at least three medications for severe Covid-19, including Regeneron's monoclonal antibody cocktail, remdesivir and dexamethasone. We still have not been told how high the President's fevers have been. Infectious disease doctors, like me, will typically plot a patient's "fever curve" in relation to other vital signs (e.g. blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation levels) and relevant labs (e.g. white blood cell counts) to better understand the trend in a patient's illness and what's helping and what's not. The President had been without a fever since Friday, but we do not know what brought down his temperature. The President takes a daily aspirin, which could reduce a fever. Patients with heart disease and no history of heart attack or stroke should be prescribed a baby aspirin (81 mg), not full-dose aspirin (325 mg). If he's getting full-dose aspirin, that would imply he's likely had a heart attack or stroke. Either way, the President had breakthrough fevers on aspirin. We haven't been told whether he's been given ibuprofen, Tylenol (acetaminophen), or other fever-reducing medications; this is important because normalization of his temperature without ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or other such medications would be a good prognostic sign. Conley reported that the President's last oxygen saturation on Sunday was 98% without supplemental oxygen, and he was walking around, which is good news. As far as we know, he has not been proned, which is when patients are turned to lie face down in bed. Over the course of the last several months, we've learned that patients with severe Covid oxygenate better when lying face down. Some take it to be a good prognostic sign that the President walked to Marine One. We've since been told that the President was walking on his own Sunday and might be discharged Monday. Having cared for Covid patients since the early days of the pandemic in New York City, I know this can be meaningless. Early on we observed Covid patients with oxygen levels in the lower 70s who denied feeling short of breath and felt just talking and walking around -- a phenomenon known as "silent hypoxemia" or "happy hypoxia." The President's tests Dr. Conley refused to provide the date of the President's last negative Covid test. We do not know if his last Covid test was performed using the Abbott ID Now, the Abbott BinaxNOW, or some other test. The Abbott ID Now and Abbott BinaxNOW are less sensitive than other tests in picking up SARS-CoV-2 infection. We've been told the President was not tested on Tuesday afternoon just prior to the presidential debates. We've also been told that the President had a confirmatory (implying repeat) test for Covid on Thursday night, and that this test was positive. Dr. Conley reported the President's kidney and liver function have remained normal. Dr. Sean Dooley, a pulmonologist also caring for the President, said that the President's kidney, liver and cardiac functions were normal or improving. It is unclear whether the President may have had abnormal cardiac testing. Neither provided specifics. Patients with Covid may have high or low white blood cell counts, elevated inflammatory markers, and abnormal blood clotting tests, all of which are important prognostic indicators. We have not been provided with any of these test results. We have been told that the President had lung X-rays, a lung CT and an ultrasound, but not what kind of ultrasound. You can perform an ultrasound on almost any body part, but in this context, it's most likely that he underwent an ultrasound of the lungs, heart, kidneys or large veins. In addition to infection of the lungs, the SARS-CoV-2 virus may infect the heart, causing a heart attack or heart failure. Patients with Covid may also develop kidney failure or clots in blood vessels. We have not been provided with the results of any ultrasound, X-ray, CT, or other radiology scan. The timing On Saturday, Conley reported that the President had been sick for 72 hours. He then released a statement correcting himself and claiming that the President was on his third day of illness. The incubation period -- the time from exposure and infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus to symptom onset -- may be as long as 14 days but is on average about four to five days. This would imply the President was most likely infected on September 25 or 26, which coincided with indoor and outdoor events to announce the President's nomination of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. As has been covered elsewhere, these events appear to have been super spreaders, with many in attendance since testing positive for Covid. However, it remains possible the President may have been infected elsewhere. Many of us were startled to hear that the White House's "daily" Covid testing may not have been daily and didn't extend to all staff. Saturday, Joe Grogan, a former Trump White House official, tweeted, "The WH complex is the most cramped, unsanitary place of business I have ever worked. It is a miracle it took this long for COVID to hit it." The White House now appears to be a Covid hotspot. Patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 may become infectious to others up to three days prior to symptom onset. Assuming the President developed symptoms on Wednesday or Thursday, this would mean that he could have been infectious as early as Sunday and was almost certainly infectious at the debate on Tuesday. It is notable that the President and his entourage flouted the "honor system" and failed to be tested in the hours leading up to the debate, putting Vice President Joe Biden, Chris Wallace, and others in attendance at risk. What treatment has the President received? President Trump received the Regeneron monoclonal antibody cocktail on Thursday, his first dose of remdesivir on Friday, and his first dose of dexamethasone Saturday. His physicians are planning to administer a five-day course of remdesivir. Based on what we know about how monoclonal antibodies and remdesivir work, it makes sense to give both of these drugs early in the course of disease. The Regeneron treatment is a combination of two synthetically produced monoclonal antibodies. These antibodies bind to the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and stop it from binding and infecting cells. The idea is to give patients a head-start on fighting the virus, especially those, like the President, whose immune systems may be slower to respond because of their age. Two monoclonal antibodies are given instead of one to prevent mutant viruses from evading treatment. Monoclonal antibodies are basically a more pure, concentrated, synthetic version of convalescent plasma -- theoretically more powerful and with a lower risk of side-effects. It's notable that the President has known Regeneron CEO Dr. Leonard S. Schleifer for years. No peer-reviewed studies of the Regeneron monoclonal antibody cocktail have been published, not even a pre-print; this is far from being FDA-approved. All we have is Regeneron's Tuesday press release with preliminary data. Two-hundred seventy-five patients were included in the initial analysis reported in that press release. The average age of those patients was 44 (30 years less than the President). Forty percent of those patients were obese, and 49% were male. According to that press release, the Regeneron monoclonal antibody cocktail reduced the SARS-CoV-2 viral load in some patients. We do not know if the cocktail reduced the severity of symptoms or risk of death. The Regeneron monoclonal antibody cocktail is so new that we have yet to fully characterize the side effects associated with it. The side effects of other monoclonal antibodies may include fevers, chills, weakness, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure, rash, life-threatening anaphylaxis, cytokine release syndrome (which may also be caused by Covid itself), toxicity to the heart, abnormal blood clotting, infections, autoimmune reactions and more. Furthermore, the Regeneron monoclonal antibody cocktail has not been tested in patients as old as the President. We do not know if the Regeneron monoclonal antibody cocktail has previously been given in combination with other drugs like remdesivir. In summary, we do not know if the Regeneron monoclonal antibody cocktail is safe or effective. After receiving the Regeneron monoclonal antibody cocktail, President Trump also received his first dose of remdesivir on Friday. Remdesivir works by blocking viral replication. Treatment guidelines based on the best available research recommend remdesivir only for patients with severe Covid who require supplemental oxygen or who have an oxygen saturation of less than or equal to 94% without supplemental oxygen. A preliminary report of an ongoing randomized clinical trial showed that patients with severe Covid receiving remdesivir had a shorter time to recovery than did those receiving placebo (11 versus 15 days). We do not know if remdesivir prevents death. Remdesivir is not a benign, risk-free drug; its side-effects include fever, anemia, liver toxicity and kidney toxicity. The oldest patient to receive remdesivir as part of this trial was younger than the President. On Sunday we learned that the President was started on dexamethasone the previous day. Research-based treatment guidelines recommend treatment with dexamethasone for patients who require supplemental oxygen or who have an oxygen saturation of less than or equal to 94% without supplemental oxygen. In a preliminary analysis of the RECOVERY Trial, the best study we have to date of dexamethasone for treatment of Covid, researchers found that dexamethasone significantly reduced the risk of death from the virus. Dexamethasone works differently from monoclonal antibodies and remdesivir by toning down the dysfunctional, hyperinflammatory immune response to SARS-CoV-2 seen in many patients with severe Covid. We have not been told whether the President is being treated with a blood thinner, which prevents blood clots, and if so, at what dose. Treatment with a blood thinner (e.g. low molecular weight heparin) is considered standard of care in hospitalized patients with Covid. Prior to his hospitalization, President Trump was reportedly taking zinc, vitamin D, famotidine, melatonin and a daily aspirin. His medication list as recently reported by Dr. Conley did not include the cholesterol-lowering medication rosuvastatin, which President had previously been taking for heart disease. It is unclear whether Conley provided an abridged list of the President's medications or whether some of his medications may have been discontinued. What's the President's prognosis? Doctors think in terms of good and bad prognostic indicators. In the President's favor are his expedited access to testing and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment of Covid likely predict a better outcome. The President's risk factors for severe Covid disease and death include his advanced age, his gender and obesity. In 2018, he underwent a coronary calcium CT scan, which showed he had a coronary calcium score of 133, indicating plaque was present and that he had heart disease. Older men are twice as likely to die from Covid as women, at least in part because they mount weaker immune responses to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Thirty-six percent of men between the ages of 70 and 79 who were hospitalized with Covid in the New York City area in March and April died. But within that age group, there's a lot of variability. How quickly were they diagnosed? Why were they hospitalized? How good was their care? Since April we've learned a lot about how to treat Covid patients and have new therapies, like those the President is receiving, at our disposal. It will be at least another week before the President is out of the woods. Covid patients often take an abrupt turn for the worse about seven to 10 days into the course of disease, and even then, he's also at risk for long-term complications of Covid, what some are calling long-hauler symptoms. Such complications may include fatigue, memory loss, shortness of breath, heart failure, kidney failure, diarrhea and clotting problems. Many questions remain: When did the President first test positive for Covid? When did he develop symptoms? Who did he expose? Was the President given the Regeneron monoclonal antibody cocktail in hopes that the he wouldn't become symptomatic? That the diagnosis could be concealed? And how sick is he, really? Oil painting "Homeless:" A little girl came home from school and found that her parents had been arrested for practicing Falun Gong. The door was sealed by the 610 Office. In China, many children are deprived of normal education and work opportunities because their parents or relatives practice Falun Gong. (Screenshot/The Epoch Times) Grandson of Falun Gong Adherent in China Banned From Attending Kindergarten When school started for kindergarten students on Sept. 6, the grandson of retired teacher Tao Lahuai was excited to begin his first day at Macheng City Kindergarten in Hubei Province. Unexpectedly, the four-year-old child was prohibited from entering the kindergarten, where Tao used to teach. Under the pressure of the local Chinese Communist Party (CCP)s political and legal commission and the local 610 office, a secret police force established by the regime to persecute Falun Gong, the schools director banned Taos grandson from attending the kindergarten, citing the excuse that Tao and the childs mother refused to renounce their faith, according to a report by Minghui.org, a U.S.-based website that tracks the persecution of Falun Gong in China. This is a recent example of the CCP using the guilty by association tactic, punishing their family members, work colleagues, neighbors, classmates, or friends to persecute Falun Gong practitioners and pressure them to give up their spiritual belief, the report said. Tao, 70, taught at Macheng City Kindergarten for 33 years and has been retired for 15 years. She has been detained twice in a provincial legal education center, commonly known as the brainwashing center, for more than 60 days for practicing the spiritual discipline, which has been under severe persecution since 1999. Harassed and Coerced by Police and School Administrators From mid to late May, Tao Lahuai was repeatedly harassed by the district police, the director and deputy director of the kindergarten, the director of the labor union, the director of comprehensive management, and other CCP officials, according to the report. They came to her home and tried to force their way in, and coerced her to sign a documenta guarantee that she would stop practicing Falun Gong and stop talking about the persecution with other people. But she refused to cooperate. In one incident, Tao and her daughter-in-law refused to open the door when the authorities showed up at their doorstep. They reasoned with the police and the local authorities from their balcony on the second floor, saying they are good people and have not violated the law. Jin Sufang, the deputy director of the kindergarten, yelled at them, saying: If you dont sign, all the teachers in the whole kindergarten wont get bonuses. Implicating others is a typical tactic used by the CCP to pressure and to persecute individuals. Minghui reported that the police tried to kick down the door and threatened them, saying, Will you not open it? We will catch you one by one as soon as you get out! A police officer picked up his mobile phone to record Tao and her daughter-in-law. The daughter-in-law also took out her cellphone to record the group of police officers trying to break in and shouting at them. The neighbors all went out to watch, condemning the polices illegal action. Tao and her family could not leave their house for some time after the incident, the report said. The school has repeatedly forced Tao to sign the guarantee documents to renounce Falun Gong. The leaders of the kindergarten threatened that if she did not sign the guarantee documents then everyone in the kindergarten would lose their bonus. Suspending the Childs Enrollment and Not Refunding Tuition Fees According to the report, at the end of August, Macheng City Kindergarten notified new students to register. Taos home is just 100 meters away from the school, and her four-year-old grandson met all the admission requirements of the kindergarten. Taos son stood in line for two days and two nights to enroll, and finally received confirmation that the boy was admitted. They paid for all the tuition and fees upfront. Later, they received a notice from the kindergarten confirming the childs class placement. On Sept. 6, the first day of school, Taos son and daughter-in-law brought the child to the school. But he was turned away by the headteacher of the class. Your child is not in our class, and our class does not have his name, the headteacher said, and told them to talk to the director and the deputy director of the kindergarten who are in charge, according to Minghui. The boys mother went to the office and spoke with the director, Yu Li, who said that her son can start kindergarten only if she and her mother-in-law Tao would sign the guarantee statement to give up practicing Falun Gong and not spread religious rumors, the report said. She told the director, We cultivate truth, benevolence, tolerance, and freedom of belief. What does it have to do with our child entering the kindergarten? She refused to comply and told the director that she would sue the kindergarten. Then the director said, Its not that we wont accept your child, its that his enrollment is suspended. Its been a month and the school has not notified Taos grandson to come to class, and the tuition and fees they paid have not been refunded. 'Control Cholesterol' to Support the NHS in Delivering on Long-Term Plan Ambitions and Improve Health Outcomes for Patients in the North West Coast of England Quality Management Approach Aims to Help Predict and Prevent Heart Attacks and Strokes For More Than 300,000 People With Dangerously High Cholesterol Levels Amgen today announced a new partnership with two NHS organisations, the North West Coast Innovation Agency and Imperial College Health Partners. This collaboration will help tackle the 'silent killer' of high cholesterol across the North West Coast of England an area heavily impacted by heart attacks, strokes, and premature deaths due to cardiovascular disease (CVD). 'Control Cholesterol: Collaborating to Reduce Risk' is an innovative two-year programme adopting a quality management approach to improve health outcomes for people at high risk of a CVD event, due to raised cholesterol. It is part of a global Amgen initiative seeking to improve human health by not only treating diseases after they strike, but by helping to predict and prevent illnesses before they occur. The UK programme is one of the largest 'predict and prevent' commitments by Amgen outside of the United States. Together with its NHS partners, Amgen will be working with primary care networks, clinical commissioning groups, and GP practices to develop scalable, evidence-based solutions that deliver cost efficiencies and capacity savings. Through earlier interventions, the collaboration will support people most at risk of a CVD event, improve care to help them remain as healthy as possible, and potentially prevent them from suffering a life-threatening heart attack or stroke. Improved pathways for these patients in primary care will ensure they receive appropriate advice and treatment outside the hospital setting. This will help preserve hospital capacity to enable the NHS to deal with other acute healthcare challenges, such as COVID-19 and the winter flu season, as well as supporting the NHS to deliver its Long Term Plan vision1 Nationally, approximately 6.1 million2 people are living with heart and circulatory diseases, which account for more than a quarter2 (27%) of all deaths in England, costing the NHS an estimated 7.4 billion each year2. Cardiovascular disease is also the largest cause of premature death in deprived areas3. These statistics demonstrate the importance of innovative collaboration between the NHS, academia, and the biotechnology industry to find new and sustainable solutions that improve lives and can benefit the health system over the long term. Through 'Control Cholesterol: Collaborating to Reduce Risk', more than 300,0004,5 people in the North West of England with potentially high cholesterol levels, will benefit from improved CVD care and cholesterol management. This includes approximately 150,0004,5 who are at very high risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Using a predictive software model developed by Imperial College Health Partners, 'Control Cholesterol: Collaborating to Reduce Risk' will enable health organisations to identify gaps in cholesterol management, understand the number of people at risk of CVD, and model the potential health outcomes and cost savings of improving care. Implementing the model in the North West region an area where early deaths from cardiovascular disease before the age of 75 are the highest6 in England and 20%6 higher than the national average will provide invaluable insights that inform how Amgen and its NHS partners can work together to develop new models of care for people with raised cholesterol. Dr Tony Patrikios, executive medical director at Amgen UK and Ireland, said: "As the front line of the NHS, primary care plays a critical role in identifying patients at high risk of suffering cardiovascular events, and ensuring they are appropriately treated or referred on for timely treatment and optimal management. This collaboration brings together the collective scientific expertise, clinical experience, and deep understanding of cardiovascular disease of Amgen and our NHS partners, to provide a meaningful contribution to the NHS in achieving its Long Term Plan ambition of preventing up to 150,0007 avoidable cardiovascular events over the next 10 years Dr Phil Jennings, medical director of the North West Coast Innovation Agency, said: "We have previously led successful programmes to tackle the risk factors for cardiovascular disease, atrial fibrillation and high blood pressure. We're very proud of our record in this area and the collaboration with Amgen will help us continue in the same direction by identifying people with raised cholesterol, which is a major cause of heart attacks and strokes. There's no question that tackling cardiovascular disease in our region is a very high priority. Our hope is that the programme will quickly identify people who are most at risk and start to improve outcomes quickly." Dr. Jonty Heaversedge, Clinical Director at Imperial College Health Partners (ICHP) said: "At ICHP we have considerable experience in developing and delivering effective tools to identify and treat patients with atrial fibrillation and to help reduce the variation in their care. The NHS is putting increasing emphasis on preventative rather than reactive treatment options and the predictive software model that we are developing as part of the collaboration with Amgen supports this prevention strategy to avoid more serious, and potentially more costly, health problems and treatments associated with cardiovascular disease. This is not only better for the patient but for the wider system too High-risk patient groups in this region are in an even more critical position as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of coronavirus on the cardiovascular system has increased the need for quality management interventions that can reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, with people suffering from cardiac disease comprising almost 30%8 of COVID-19 hospitalisations. The COVID-19 pandemic has acted as a catalyst for accelerating change, with the NHS responding by adopting new and innovative ways of treating patients. 'Control Cholesterol: Collaborating to Reduce Risk' is another opportunity to harness this innovation and provide patient-centred care in ways that move more services out of hospital and into the community. NOTES TO EDITORS About cardiovascular disease (CVD) Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a general term for conditions affecting the heart or blood vessels. It's usually associated with a build-up of fatty deposits inside the arteries (atherosclerosis) and an increased risk of blood clots. It can also be associated with damage to arteries in organs such as the brain, heart, kidneys and eyes. CVD is one of the main causes of death and disability in the UK, but it is largely prevented by leading a healthy lifestyle. Elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), known as 'bad cholesterol', is recognised as a major, modifiable risk factor for CVD. Alongside atrial fibrillation and high blood pressure, it is one of the three major risk factors identified in the NHS Long Term plan1 in tackling CVD and is often overlooked in screening and assessments9 About cholesterol Cholesterol is a type of blood fat known as lipids. Cholesterol and other lipids are carried in the blood. There are two main types of lipoproteins, which are often referred to as 'good' and 'bad' cholesterol10 HDL cholesterol (high density lipoprotein) carries cholesterol away from cells and back to the liver, removing cholesterol from the system. LDL cholesterol (low density lipoprotein) makes people more likely to have heart problems or a stroke, because too much of it in the blood can build up and clog the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis11 High cholesterol is when the proportion of bad cholesterol to good cholesterol is too high. This can clog up arteries, and over time can lead to serious problems including coronary heart disease, angina, stroke, heart attacks and vascular dementia11 High cholesterol is mainly caused by lifestyle, for example eating fatty food, not exercising enough, being overweight, smoking and drinking alcohol. It can also run in families11. People can lower their cholesterol by eating healthily, getting more exercise and taking prescribed lipid-lowering medicines when advised by their doctor12 About NHS North West Coast Innovation Agency The Innovation Agency is an Academic Health Science Network, one of 15 AHSNs in England operating as the innovation arm of the NHS as part of the national AHSN Network. The Innovation Agency covers the North West Coast Cheshire, Merseyside, South Cumbria and Lancashire, serving a population of just over four million residents. The Innovation Agency's role is to spread innovations at pace and scale, helping facilitate change across whole health and social care economies, to improve health, drive down the cost of care, and stimulate economic growth. For more information, visit www.innovationagencynwc.nhs.uk About Imperial College Health Partners Imperial College Health Partners (ICHP) is a partnership organisation bringing together NHS providers of healthcare services, clinical commissioning groups and leading universities across North West London. We are also the designated Academic Health Science Network (AHSN) for North West London as part of the national AHSN Network. We were created by the NHS to support complex change across the health and care sector innovating and collaborating for a healthier population. For more information, visit https://imperialcollegehealthpartners.com/ About Amgen in the UK and Ireland Amgen is committed to the relentless pursuit of breakthroughs and making a sustainable contribution to healthcare. A biotechnology pioneer since 1980, Amgen serves patients by transforming the promise of science and biotechnology into therapies that have the power to restore health or save lives. Amgen develops innovative medicines in cancer and long-term conditions by using advanced human genetics to unravel the complexities of disease and understand the fundamentals of human biology. As one of the most forward-thinking and innovative biotech companies, Amgen's growing portfolio of medicines tackle some of the biggest healthcare burdens facing society today. The UK and Ireland is one of Amgen's largest sites outside of the company headquarters in California and is a European hub for research and development. More than 500 people at Amgen in the UK and Ireland contribute to the journey that turns molecules into medicines, and in 2019 approximately 253,000 UK and Irish patients were treated with Amgen medicines. For more information, visit www.amgen.co.uk References 1 NHS Long Term Plan https://www.longtermplan.nhs.uk [accessed 28/08/2020] 2 Data from BHF Statistics Factsheet England https://www.bhf.org.uk/what-we-do/our-research/heart-statistics [accessed 28/08/2020] 3 NHS England Cardiovascular disease https://www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/clinical-policy/cvd/ [accessed 28/08/2020] 4 Explore NHS Health Check Data: Cheshire and Merseyside: Size of the Prize https://www.healthcheck.nhs.uk/commissioners-and-providers/data/size-of-the-prize-and-nhs-health-check-factsheet/ [accessed 28/08/2020] 5 Explore NHS Health Check Data: Lancashire and South Cumbria Size of the Prize https://www.healthcheck.nhs.uk/commissioners-and-providers/data/size-of-the-prize-and-nhs-health-check-factsheet/ [accessed 28/08/2020] 6 British Heart Foundation: Heart Circulatory Disease Statistics 2020 Table 1.21 https://www.bhf.org.uk/-/media/files/research/heart-statistics/bhf-statistics-compendium-2020.pdf?la=en [accessed 28/08/2020] 7 NHS Health Check: How do system leaders turn cardiovascular disease priorities into action? https://www.healthcheck.nhs.uk/latest-news/nhs-long-term-plan-how-do-system-leaders-turn-cardiovascular-disease-priorities-into-action/ [accessed 28/08/2020] 8 Features of 20,133 hospitalised UK patients with COVID-19 using the ISARIC WHO Clinical Characterisation Protocol: Docherty et al, 2020 9 HEART UK Prevention Policy Paper 2019 https://www.heartuk.org.uk/downloads/health-professionals/heart-uk-cvd-prevention-policy-paper---july-2019.pdf [accessed 21/09/2020] 10 HEART UK What is cholesterol? https://www.heartuk.org.uk/cholesterol/what-is-cholesterol [accessed 28/08/2020] 11 HEART UK What is high cholesterol? https://www.heartuk.org.uk/cholesterol/what-is-high-cholesterol [accessed 28/08/2020] 12 HEART UK Healthy living https://www.heartuk.org.uk/healthy-living/introduction [accessed 28/08/2020] Amgen Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on the current expectations and beliefs of Amgen. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including any statements on the outcome, benefits and synergies of collaborations, or potential collaborations, with any other company, including Adaptive Biotechnologies (including statements regarding such collaboration's ability to discover and develop fully-human neutralizing antibodies targeting SARS-CoV-2 to potentially prevent or treat COVID-19), BeiGene, Ltd., or the Otezla(apremilast) acquisition, including anticipated Otezla sales growth and the timing of non-GAAP EPS accretion, as well as estimates of revenues, operating margins, capital expenditures, cash, other financial metrics, expected legal, arbitration, political, regulatory or clinical results or practices, customer and prescriber patterns or practices, reimbursement activities and outcomes, effects of pandemics or other widespread health problems such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic on Amgen's business, outcomes, progress, or effects relating to studies of Otezla as a potential treatment for COVID-19, and other such estimates and results. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, including those discussed below and more fully described in the Securities and Exchange Commission reports filed by Amgen, including its most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent periodic reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Unless otherwise noted, Amgen is providing this information as of the date of this news release and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this document as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results may differ materially from those Amgen projects. Amgen's results may be affected by its ability to successfully market both new and existing products domestically and internationally, clinical and regulatory developments involving current and future products, sales growth of recently launched products, competition from other products including biosimilars, difficulties or delays in manufacturing its products and global economic conditions. In addition, sales of Amgen's products are affected by pricing pressure, political and public scrutiny and reimbursement policies imposed by third-party payers, including governments, private insurance plans and managed care providers and may be affected by regulatory, clinical and guideline developments and domestic and international trends toward managed care and healthcare cost containment. Furthermore, Amgen's research, testing, pricing, marketing and other operations are subject to extensive regulation by domestic and foreign government regulatory authorities. Amgen or others could identify safety, side effects or manufacturing problems with its products, including its devices, after they are on the market. Amgen's business may be impacted by government investigations, litigation and product liability claims. In addition, Amgen's business may be impacted by the adoption of new tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities. If Amgen fails to meet the compliance obligations in the corporate integrity agreement between Amgen and the U.S. government, Amgen could become subject to significant sanctions. Further, while Amgen routinely obtains patents for its products and technology, the protection offered by its patents and patent applications may be challenged, invalidated or circumvented by its competitors, or Amgen may fail to prevail in present and future intellectual property litigation. Amgen performs a substantial amount of its commercial manufacturing activities at a few key facilities, including in Puerto Rico, and also depends on third parties for a portion of its manufacturing activities, and limits on supply may constrain sales of certain of its current products and product candidate development. An outbreak of disease or similar public health threat, such as COVID-19, and the public and governmental effort to mitigate against the spread of such disease, could have a significant adverse effect on the supply of materials for Amgen's manufacturing activities, the distribution of Amgen's products, the commercialization of Amgen's product candidates, and Amgen's clinical trial operations, and any such events may have a material adverse effect on Amgen's product development, product sales, business and results of operations. Amgen relies on collaborations with third parties for the development of some of its product candidates and for the commercialization and sales of some of its commercial products. In addition, Amgen competes with other companies with respect to many of its marketed products as well as for the discovery and development of new products. Discovery or identification of new product candidates or development of new indications for existing products cannot be guaranteed and movement from concept to product is uncertain; consequently, there can be no guarantee that any particular product candidate or development of a new indication for an existing product will be successful and become a commercial product. Further, some raw materials, medical devices and component parts for Amgen's products are supplied by sole third-party suppliers. Certain of Amgen's distributors, customers and payers have substantial purchasing leverage in their dealings with Amgen. The discovery of significant problems with a product similar to one of Amgen's products that implicate an entire class of products could have a material adverse effect on sales of the affected products and on its business and results of operations. Amgen's efforts to collaborate with or acquire other companies, products or technology, and to integrate the operations of companies or to support the products or technology Amgen has acquired, may not be successful. A breakdown, cyberattack or information security breach could compromise the confidentiality, integrity and availability of Amgen's systems and Amgen's data. Amgen's stock price may be volatile and may be affected by a number of events. Amgen's business performance could affect or limit the ability of the Amgen Board of Directors to declare a dividend or its ability to pay a dividend or repurchase its common stock. Amgen may not be able to access the capital and credit markets on terms that are favorable to it, or at all. Job Code: GB-NPS-1020-00004 Date of Preparation: October 2020 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201004005019/en/ Contacts: Amgen Cambridge Science Park, 240 Milton Road, Milton, Cambridge CB4 OWD Telephone 01223 420305 www.amgen.co.uk Name: Abbie Bell, Account Director, Havas SO Telephone: +44(0) 7375 660 515 Email: abbie.bell@havasso.com Name: Poppy Greacen, Account Executive, Havas SO Telephone: +44(0) 7904 202871 Email: poppy.greacen@havasso.com Risk assets are rallying on Monday, but the move is not completely convincing. President Trumps health is unclear. On one hand the White House tells us he may be discharged on Monday, on the other we know he has been given treatment reserved for more serious cases. The US dollar has dropped slightly but indecision and risk are still present Markets are higher on Monday as the weekend concluded with mostly positive news. The main headlines were, of course, focused on President Trumps Covid-19 diagnosis and subsequent hospital admission which caused a heavy sell off on Friday. Should the Presidents condition have worsened significantly it would have accelerated the decline at Sundays open, but the White House did its best to put a positive spin on events and even suggested Trump would be back at the White House and back to work on Monday. This caused a decent uptick in risk assets such as stocks and pushed the US dollar lower. However, a +0.6% gain in S&P500 futures and a 0.27% drop in the DXY dollar basket is hardly significant and questions remain over the President's health despite what the White House wants us to think. Diagnosis Unclear If Mondays rally cannot undo Fridays moves lower then it tells us the market is still sceptical about Trumps health. Perhaps this is justified. As Reuters reported, Dr. Sean P. Conley, the White House physician, said on Sunday that Trumps condition had been worse than he had previously admitted. Conley said Trump had run a high fever on Friday morning and he had been given supplemental oxygen after his blood oxygen levels had dropped. President Trump is in the high-risk category due to his age and weight, and the need to administer oxygen tells us the coronavirus symptoms were the type that have caused many patients to die. We also know that the President was treated with dexamethasone, a steroid that relieves breathing difficulties. The Guardian ran a piece quoting Peter Openshaw, a professor of experimental medicine at Imperial College London, and a member of the UK governments New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group,, who said It would be unusual to be starting steroids with a relatively short duration of illness. Its normally reserved for people who have had symptoms for a week or more and who are going into respiratory failure. Some commentators have claimed this could be a pre-emptive treatment, but this is refuted by Nicholas Christakis, a physician and sociologist at Yale University, who said Either he is sicker than they have let on and clearly warrants dexamethasone, or hes not so sick, and therefore putting him on dexamethasone is irresponsible. Putting on a Brave Face With mixed messages on the severity of the Presidents condition, the administration has tried its best to put a positive spin on the situation. Trump has been tweeting and even made an appearance in a drive-by visit to well wishers outside the Walter Reed military medical centre where he is being treated. This was a surprise and an unusual thing for flu-sufferer to do, but goes to show how desperate the White House is. A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Sunday showed Trump trailing Biden by 10 percentage points and campaigning will have to remain on hold. Trump will also want to support the stock market as it has already showed weakness in September and the election uncertainty could hurt it more. If October prints another red month, pressure will mount. Until the President is given the all-clear and is discharged from hospital the markets are likely to remain in a risk-off bias. This means stock rallies will be sold, US dollar dips will be bought and gold should remind bid. Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is working on protocols to launch "cruise to nowhere to begin operating in the seas for the oceanic lovers and travellers, in line with the airplanes recent flights to nowhere initiative started by the Qantas for the globe trotters. The government hired a Norway-based risk management company DNV GL AS to make the travel safe for the short sailing trips into international waters that would be for a night or two, the destination being the same port where it left. However, according to sources of straits times, the vessels are dealing with the mounting fears of COVID-19 outbreaks as being the initial contributors of the pandemic infections when the virus hit, such as Diamond Princess. While the cruise operators would need to qualify for all the safety protocols and achieve safety certifications from the law that allows up 50 percent capacity, the authorities are still working on a safety framework to allow the leisure travel to operate. Earlier this week, Singapore Airlines cancelled its plans of flights to nowhere citing environmental pollution and fuel consumption concerns and resort to installing a restaurant on Airbus A380 jetliner instead. Read: Coronavirus Outbreak On Cruise Ship Sailing In Greece Read: Odisha Plans River Cruises To Boost Tourism Sector During Pandemic 'Cruises to nowhere' from S'pore set to resume; STB to launch safety guidelines for cruise lines: SINGAPORE - The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is creating a health and safety framework that will allow for "cruises to nowhere" departing f https://t.co/JCKWFfmBac pic.twitter.com/3yURLbbpXN Marine 5 star Luxury Lifestyle Platform (@easyyachts) September 30, 2020 In a paper accessed by The Straits Times, the company designed a framework for non-compliance with safety measures and a complete certification programme for the cruise docked at the ports since March in an attempt to revive the tourism for its struggling economy. In a statement to the daily, Singapores tourism board said that it was reviewing the measures and protocols to make the experience safe for passengers during the pandemic. It said that the details around the hygiene requirements will be announced later. CDC denies permission to cruise industry Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the US denied the permission to the cruise industry to restart leisure sails in the ocean and extended a no-sail ban in the US by a month. Rachel Loh, STB's regional director told sources of Americas The Post that the announcement will be made in weeks ahead. Further, the report revealed that Norwegian and Celebrity cruise lines both of which operate in Singapore will be docked until months end, Princess Cruises, on the other hand, have no permission to sail until mid-December. Read: Qantas Launches 'Flight To Nowhere' To 'reignite The Joy Of Flying'; All You Need To Know Read: Qantas Expects Global Travel Won't Resume Until Mid-2021 Ahead of elections, Pakistan pumping in huge number of IEDs into India The drone threat from Pakistan that India faces is immense What bonds the Khalistanis and the Pakistanis FATF all set to decide on Pakistan's grey list status in virtual meeting International oi-Ajay Joseph Raj P Islamabad, Oct 05: The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is all set to decide on Pakistan's grey list status in a virtual meeting scheduled later this month. Earlier, the Paris-based global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog had placed Pakistan on the grey list in June 2018 and asked Islamabad to implement a plan of action to curb money laundering and terror financing by the end of 2019 but the deadline was extended later on due to COVID-19 pandemic. Coronavirus: India records 74,442 new COVID-19 cases, 903 deaths in last 24 hours Seeking to wriggle out of the FATF's grey list, Pakistan in August imposed financial sanctions on 88 banned terror groups and their leaders, including 26/11 Mumbai attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar and underworld don Dawood Ibrahim. It is reportedly said that the virtual FATF plenary scheduled for October 21-23 will decide if Pakistan should be excluded from its grey list, based on a review of Islamabad's performance to meet global commitments and standards on fight against Money Laundering and Terror Financing (ML&TF). Explained: What happens to US election 2020 if coronavirus puts Donald Trump out? The meeting was earlier scheduled in June but Islamabad got an unexpected breather after the global watchdog against financial crimes temporarily postponed all mutual evaluations and follow-up deadlines in the wake of grave health risk following COVID-19 pandemic. In February, the FATF gave Pakistan, which missed 13 targets, a four-month grace period to complete its 27-point action plan against ML&TF committed with the international community. JEE advanced results out, Rafale in IAF Day Parade & other news | Oneindia News In July, Pakistan's Senate unanimously approved two bills related to the tough conditions set by FATF. In August, Parliament's lower house passed four FATF-related bills as part of the efforts by Pakistan to move from the FATF's grey list to the white list. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, October 5, 2020, 12:45 [IST] Sudburys traditional Remembrance Day Service, held annually at the Sudbury Community Arena downtown on Nov. 11, has officially been cancelled due to COVID-19. It has been confirmed, as of (this week), by the City of (Greater) Sudbury that we will not be able to host our usual service at the Sudbury Arena, said Jennifer Huard, president of the Royal Canadian Legion Lockerby Branch 564. However, local Legion branches will still be holding smaller Remembrance Day services where we will follow all COVID-19 protocols, including social distancing. The annual Remembrance Day service is organized each year by Royal Canadian Legion Br. 564 and Br. 76 in honour of Canadian veterans and armed forces who died in the line of duty. This year, physical distancing regulations, as well as limitations on the number of people allowed to gather indoors mean that the thousands of citizens that usually attend the Remembrance Day Service will no longer be allowed to congregate. Instead, local Legion branches are working hard to organize alternative ceremonies for the Sudbury community. In addition to the smaller ceremonies that will be held at local Legion halls, Branch 76 Sudbury and Lockerby Legion Branch 564 in collaboration, with UN NATO Veterans, are planning a special virtual ceremony that will be broadcast throughout the city. During Remembrance week, our Legionnaires are quite busy doing services throughout the city at schools, retirement homes, nursing homes, and long-term care homes, for example. This year, because of COVID-19, they are unable to do so, said Huard. So, what we are doing is filming a virtual ceremony. Its going to be a professional production, and after its finished, we are going to be able to cascade that back into the community. The people who are unable to get out will still be able to observe remembrance. Huard said that while its unfortunate that the traditional ceremony will not be held downtown, its just the way it is right now. As long as people continue to observe Remembrance Day, thats the important thing, she said. People are unable to get out like they used to, and many people are not comfortable doing so. The safety of our citizens is most important. We can be creative, and we can find other ways to help people remember, and thats what were doing. The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 76 Sudbury will be holding a smaller Remembrance Day Service at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11 at 1553 Weller St. The Lockerby Legion Branch 564 will be holding its ceremony at 1 p.m. on Nov. 11 at 2200 Long Lake Road. The virtual Remembrance Day Service will be filmed in Memorial Park this Sunday at 10 a.m. by a subsidiary of Cafe Heritage, which will be providing videography, sound, and photography services for the webcast. The virtual ceremony will be broadcast at locations throughout the city on Nov. 11, and it will also be available on Facebook and at www.cafeheritage.ca. The Local Journalism Initiative is made possible through funding from the federal government. sud.editorial@sunmedia.ca Twitter: @SudburyStar Minister says Welsh Government intervention has prevented wholesale huge loss of jobs in pandemic This article is old - Published: Monday, Oct 5th, 2020 The North Wales Minister is confident that there will be a very strong bounce back in hospitality next spring and summer, if infection rates are vastly reduced, or a vaccine is found. Back in March at the start of lockdown Ken Skates MS, Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales, said that anyone who had a good business in 2019, would have a good business in 2021. However Wrexham has already seen a number of lob losses within the retail and hospitality sector, along with companies such as Tyson Foods, Wrexham Wire and Magellan announcing redundancies. Speaking with Mr Skates we asked how he could give such a guarantee when the pandemic has changed certain sectors potentially for good. He acknowledged that whilst people across Wales, including Wrexham, have lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic, financial support schemes from the UK Government and Welsh Government have managed to hold back the flood of losses so far. He said: People have lost their jobs and were going to work tirelessly to ensure that they get equally good jobs if not better, in the coming weeks and months. As we see the recovery take place, well be investing heavily in what we call the industries of tomorrow jobs, the secure high value jobs, and thats where we want people to be. Between our interventions, UK Government investments as well, weve been able to hold back a wholesale huge loss of jobs. If you look right now at the unemployment figures in Wales, the rate is 3.1 per cent, across the UK as a whole it is 4.1 per cent. That 1 per cent represents 15,000 people who are in work and without the added value of the Welsh governments half a billion pound investment in jobs and businesses, its entirely reasonable to expect that at least that 15,000 number to have been lost. Its equivalent to a quarter of all people who are in work in Wrexham, that have been saved as a result of the Welsh Government coming in investing in businesses investment and jobs alongside the UK Government with their furlough scheme and self employment support scheme. In Wrexham more than 19,000 workers were supported by the financial support schemes offered by the UK Government. 15,000 workers were supported through furlough and a further 4,000 self-employed individuals in the area received support via the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme. However with the furlough scheme ending at the end of this month and restrictions being imposed in areas across the UK, there are fears that this winter could be a tipping point for many businesses. Last week the Welsh Government announced that 140m is being made available to help businesses deal with the economic challenges of Covid-19 and the UKs exit from the European Union at the end of the year with the latest Economic Resilience Fund (ERF) that is launching today. Welsh Government say the funding will see wider support being provided to secure jobs and help businesses develop, as well as additional help for firms affected by local lockdowns. To date, the first phases of the ERF has delivered almost 300m of support to more than 13,000 companies in Wales protecting in excess of 100,000 jobs which might otherwise have been lost. Additional packages of support have also been announced for the self-employed and creative sectors. The UK Government also announced the Winter Support Package last month, which will replace the furlough scheme. The package of support includes the UK Government topping up the wages of staff for employees who work a third of their normal hours. But Mr Skates warned that we are not out of the woods yet, which is why it was vitally important the UK Government recognised the need to avoid a cliff edge at the end of October. He said: Theyve announced the Job Support Scheme and also the Job Retention Bonus. There are concerns that certain sectors such as hospitality and automotive, either wont be able to benefit or the amount thats going to be invested in individuals will not be sufficient for a business to justify keeping them on. Ive said to UK Government counterparts that while we welcome the Job Support Scheme but please be alive to the fact that you may need to adjust it to save jobs. Theyve done it in the past with other schemes with the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme when we said youve got to adjust the criteria and youve got to make sure that more support through High Street banks, they did just that. In terms of the Welsh Government support announced last week, Mr Skates added: We were able to announce another 140 million as part of the third phase of the Economic Resilience Fund. This is an important part of our support package for businesses that are going to be affected by local containment measures. 60 million will be used to support businesses in areas of Wales where there are local restrictions in place including, Wrexham. Businesses in Wrexham will be able to apply for grants that will enable them to survive the local restriction period, which will be reviewed very regularly. And then alongside 60 million local lockdown fund we announced 80 million for business development Of the funding announced last week 20 million has been ring-fenced for tourism and hospitality businesses, an industry which entered lockdown first and which will likely be the last to leave, according to Mr Skates. He also called on the UK Government to provide more support for the sector, which is facing a challenging winter with restrictions such as the 10pm curfew, the rule of six and local lockdown measures in place. He added: I am hearing some positive soundings from UK Government. I do hope that ministers and those in the business department will be able to convince the Treasury and the Chancellor to bring forward a specific sector package because if we dont see one, then I fear we will see a significant loss of businesses and jobs. But the 20 million that weve announced, will help a good number of businesses survive upcoming winter months and get through to the spring next year. Provided weve come up with a vaccine or weve driven infection rates down right down, then Im confident that there will be a very strong bounce back in hospitality next spring and summer. The eligibility checker, for companies to find out if they can access funding from the third phase of the ERF, will be live this week. Companies that received grant funding through phase 1 and/or 2 of the ERF, or non-domestic rate-linked grants, could also be eligible for further support through the third phase of the ERF. CHARLOTTE, N.C. and MURRYSVILLE, Pa., Oct. 5, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Summit Park, a Charlotte-based private investment firm, is pleased to announce the sale of its portfolio company C.A.R.S. Protection Plus ("CARS" or "The Company") to Spectrum Automotive, a portfolio company of Cornell Capital. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. CARS, headquartered in Murrysville, Pennsylvania, is a leading provider of vehicle service contracts ("VSCs") to independent and franchise dealerships throughout the United States. Since the Company's founding in 1998, CARS has developed specific expertise in the high-mileage segment of the VSC industry. Following the recapitalization of the business in December 2015, Summit Park worked with the Company's founder, Mike Tedesco, and the CARS management team, led by President & CEO Lance LaCoe, to create a national provider of VSCs. The Company expanded the number of states in which it is licensed to do business from 35 in 2015 to 50 today. Over this time period, CARS also introduced new products and developed successful partnerships with national sales agencies, resulting in significant growth in the Company's business with larger, franchise dealer groups. "The CARS team did an amazing job growing the business and strengthening the Company's position as a leading provider of high-mileage VSCs," said Bob Calton, Co-Managing Partner at Summit Park. "We have enjoyed our partnership with Mike Tedesco and the current management team over the past several years and look forward to tracking the continued success of CARS as part of Spectrum Automotive." The transaction marks Summit Park's third exit from its second fund, Summit Park II, which had a final closing in April 2015. CARS and Summit Park were advised by McGuireWoods LLP (legal advisor), William Blair & Company (financial advisor), Riveron (accounting advisor), and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (tax advisor). About Summit Park Summit Park is a Charlotte, North Carolina-based private investment firm focused exclusively on the lower middle market. The firm seeks to invest between $20 and $50 million of equity capital across a wide range of industries, including business and consumer services, light manufacturing and value-added distribution. Summit Park targets businesses with revenue between $20 and $100 million located in the Eastern half of the United States. The firm's capital can be used to facilitate a change in ownership, to support expansion and growth, to provide partial liquidity to existing owners, or to support an industry consolidation plan. For more information, visit www.summitparkllc.com. Media contact: Rachel Hannon, 704-654-3400, [email protected] SOURCE Summit Park Related Links http://www.summitparkllc.com